《Max Talent Player》


 Chapter 1: Prologue

    Chapter 1: Prologue


    Kim Kangchul, the Personnel Department Head for the Korean yers Association, let out a sigh.


    Looks like you were very unlucky this time, Mr. Kim Hyukjin.


    There was no other way to put it. Looking at the free government-sponsored yer aptitude test results, he let out a sigh.


    Name: Kim Hyukjin


    Talent tes:


    Talent Type: Cannot be determined


    Here, the  indicated active talent tes.  were inactive tes. Talent tes were pretty simr to growth tes for bones. Much like how growth tes determined how tall someone would be, talent tes determined ones aptitude. The more talent tes a yer had, the higher their chances were of having their talent bloom.


    So this was the test result five years ago.


    He got into his car, having decided on personally delivering the result to the involved party. This was thest gesture of goodwill he could perform.


    As a matter of fact, if this testee had been born in a different era, he would have definitely seeded at bing an amazing yer. He had an internationally unprecedented 67 talent tes, after all.


    If you take into ount the fact that Koreas talent test can only measure up to 67 tes


    It was possible he had far more tes than that. To put it in words, this man was a natural genius.


    It was to the point that the chairman of the yers Association, Shin Hyungseok, looked at the results and groaned. Ah How did we only just find this person?


    It was more of an enraged exmation than a groan. Why did they only just now discover such a person? In all actuality, he wasnt actually discovered just now. This man with an unbelievable number of talent tes was found five years ago.


    He was a genius, a total genius Theres no point in talking about it now, though.


    Through some awful luck, this man took the test at the same time as the youngest grandson of Sungshin, Koreas greatest chaebol family. That was five years ago. The test results werent seen by Kim Hyukjin, the test taker himself, but by the youngest member of Sungshin, Song Jinchul. Sungshin checked all test results before any agency could. It was illogical, but that was the custom.


    TN: A chaebol is arge industrial conglomerate in South Korea controlled by one person or one family, through family members controllingpanies and subsidiaries under them. Think old money. Sungshin is a parody of the chaebolpany Samsung.


    Back then, Song Jinchul said this:


    67 talent tes? Talk about bullshit.


    Song Jinchul had 44 talent tes. It was quite an outstanding amount of talent, but the chaebols youngest still felt bad.


    Dont let this piece of trash do anything.


    At that time, Kim Kangchul inwardlymented, This moron will once again


    A person with incredible aptitude that could be Koreas, no, the worlds greatest yer would be left to rot. For a brief moment, he thought it was unfair. It was unfair, but nothing could be done about it.


    Is this supposed to make sense?


    He shook his head. It didnt make sense. But it did. This was Koreano, in other words, this was the Republic of Sungshin. It was a ce where this kind of nonsensical thing happened every once in a while, so he decided to just ept it.


    You were unlucky, Mr. Kim Hyukjin. Your opponent is Song Jinchul.


    Song Jinchul was the youngest grandson of the Sungshin family. Kim Hyukjin was an ordinary, perhaps slightly underprivileged, citizen with nothing. From the start, their circumstances of birth were different. Because they were born in different circumstances, there was no other way to put it than you were unlucky.


    The results had already been determined five years ago. But recently, he was re-examined under the pretext of a reinspection. Done for free, like an act of benevolence. It definitely wasnt benevolence, but to check his talent tes.


    Only one talent te is still active.


    Kim Hyukjin was thirty years old. In thetter half of your twenties, your talent tes rapidly close off. It was confirmed that all of his talent tes were closed off. It wouldnt be a lie to say that he was talentless.


    As thest act of his conscience, Kim Kangchul went to Kim Hyukjins semi-basement room and personally handed him his results.


    Im sorry to be the bearer of bad news. We performed your re-examination, but it was determined that you had no talent.


    Inwardly he thought, Im sorry.


    This dead genius happened to anger Song Jinchul. Kim Kangchul gave him a box of luxury drinks as a measure of constion and apology. Call him a hypocrite, but this was the best he could do.


    I heard you were studying to take the civil servant exam. Stay strong.


    Thank you.


    Again, he thought to himself, You wont ever pass the exam.


    Because he angered Song Jinchul, of all people. There was no grandiose reason why he never passed the exam despite getting high marks for three years. It could all be boiled down to one phrase.


    You. Were. Unlucky. Mr. Kim Hyukjin.


    In many ways, including being born in Korea.


    * * *


    A semi-basement room. In the past, it was a ce where my family weed me home, but now, no one was left. It was dark. It attracted humidity. I had be used to this.


    The test result I received from Kim Kangchul was short and simple.


    [No Talent.]


    I didnt really expect anything else. In the first ce, I only went to get re-tested because they told me they would do it for free. I looked at the paper again.


    [No Talent.]


    I simply chuckled. If I had any talent, I wouldve already awakened as a yer, gotten chosen by a Guardian, and be living an extravagant lifestyle.


    Lets focus on studying instead.


    I entertained my vain hope for only a brief moment, only a few seconds. In any case, as a 30-year-old, I was too old to start ying. At thetest, it was the norm to start ying in your early 20s.


    Yep, I have to work hard.


    I couldnt think of anything else I could do other than work hard. I had no talent, no connections, and no money. I had already failed the civil servant exam three times. Five years ago, my mother passed away from illness. My older sister said she would take care of me, went to work at a semiconductor factory, and developed leukemia.


    Work hard


    Somehow, the words no talent stung a little more today than usual. Was Icking in effort, or talent? Or maybe I wascking in both? Was it my fault that I was living like this, or societys fault?


    Iid down on the bed.


    The world sure is a bitch.


    Everything felt like my fault. Because I wasnt good at studying. Because I couldnt earn a lot of money. Because I didnt have rich parents. Because I didnt put in the effort. Because I didnt ovee thepetition. Because I didnt have any talent as a yer.


    I looked at the one photo I had left of my mother on my desk. On her final night, she said to me:


    Im sorry I wanted to be your mother.


    The mother in the photo was smiling, like she was telling me, the only person left in the family, that everything would be fine.


    Dont worry, mom. Ill live well. Im still doing alright.


    It was the night of April 26, 2028. The day drew to a close with an especially humid evening, without knowing that tomorrow, apletely different day would begin.

 Chapter 2: Nameless Observer

    Chapter 2: Nameless Observer


    April 27, 2028.


    As usual, I headed to the study room with my book bag in hand. Even if we lived in an era where game concepts like dungeons and fields were the norm and people were running wild with their new careers as yers, it was all a worldpletely detached from me.


    I should just study hard.


    Earning my keep as a civil servant was perfectly fine for an incredibly ordinary person like me. And to be a civil servant, I had to study.


    Ugh, its cold.


    It was 5:20 in the morning. The early morning breeze from a spring not yet touched by summer was especially chilly today. As if they hadnt expected the cold, the people who had woken up at 5 am fastened theirpels as they strode towards their destination.


    The study room was located in Jongno, about five bus stops away. Looking at the electronic disy, the 702A bus was going to arrive in two minutes.


    But something feels off


    It wasnt like I was deliberately looking at my surroundings, but something felt different from usual. If someone asked me what was wrong, I wouldnt be able to give an exact answer, but in any case, something was strangely different today.


    Come to think of it.


    The bus stops billboard was featuring makeup being sold by Pink Velvet, an idol group that had enjoyed their heydays in the past.


    Did they get back together?


    I wouldnt know, since I hadnt been watching TVtely. Of all the idol groups, Pink Velvet was probably old enough to almost be considered ancients from the previous generation.


    Its been ten years, but they look exactly the same.


    Their faces were exactly the same as I remembered them being ten years ago. I had heard the expression that celebrities have preservativeplexions'' many times before, but this made me wonder if they were actually thering preservatives all over themselves. Their faces hadnt changed even a little bit.


    I rummaged through my bag.


    Wheres the study sheet Ah, here it is.


    Ten years ago. Jongno. The beginning of the Cataclysm.


    I read through the notepad in my hand again and again. Modern history was the most important subject in the current civil servant exam, and these notes organized the approximate timeline of the Ten Years History.


    The bus arrived. Its doors opened and I climbed up the stairs.


    [The Tutorial began with the Primordial Fog.]


    This bus was going to Jongno, the same ce that was at the center of the Cataclysm ten years ago.


    [Out of 150,000 people, around 145,000 died.]


    While I was focusing on my notes, I started hearing murmurs.


    Huh? Whats with the sudden fog?


    What?


    You cant see a thing out there.


    My concentration broke when a bunch of people started making a fuss about something. I looked around, wondering what was going on.


    Huh?


    For a moment, I was struck speechless.


    What is this?


    Was it fog?


    I can hardly see anything out there.


    It was the first time I had seen fog so thick in downtown Seoul. The Primordial Fog from ten years ago might have been this dense, maybe?


    The fog is too thick.


    I really couldnt see a single inch in front of me. Suddenly, I remembered the notes I just read.


    Ten years ago. Jongno. The beginning of the Cataclysm.


    The Tutorial began with the Primordial Fog.


    The bus slowed down considerably since the driver couldnt see the cars a few meters ahead. The fog was so dense a traffic ident could happen at any time.


    A smell?


    I could smell something weird. It was a bit like a sewer, or if someone let a particrly smelly one rip. It was enough to make me nauseous. I wanted to plug my nose, but endured it.


    A sewer smell?


    I looked back down at my study sheet.


    With a disgusting sewer smell


    Beep! Beep!


    My phone was ringing. An emergency alert had been sent. The contents were approximately:


    [Seoul Jongno district. Thick fog in the area. High risk of traffic idents.]


    I couldnt peel my eyes away from the study sheet.


    and the issuing of an emergency alert to the Seoul area


    I instantly came to my senses. I looked at my surroundings again.


    Jongno.


    A rotten sewer smell.


    Thick fog.


    An emergency text.


    It felt like Id seen this all before. Was it from a movie? Or a novel? I was getting goosebumps on my arms. No. It wasnt from a movie or a novel. It wasnt, but this was a scene that I was definitely familiar with.


    No way.


    My body began to shiver. My thoughts were turning nk.


    No. It cant be.


    I looked back at the study sheet. At the very bottom of the notepad I was holding was information that I had organized.


    April 27, 2018. The Cataclysm began with the thick fog that had covered the Jongno/Gwanghwamun districts.


    My limbs were shaking. The other people were still saying things like Whats going on? or Ive never seen fog like this before in fascination. But if this was the Cataclysm I knew, it was definitely not something to be sitting around being amazed about.


    This makes no sense.


    I couldnt believe it.


    Am I dreaming?


    There was no other option than to exin it as a dream. I had no idea why the events from the first part of the Ten Years History were suddenly happening right before my eyes. It was baffling. Why? How? Howe? How could any of this be exined?


    Wh-What date What date is it?


    I needed to sort things out.


    My phone. Right, l-lets look at my phone.


    I nced at my cell phone, hastily checking the date.


    April 27th.


    I couldnt help but be bbergasted.


    Heuk!


    I gasped unconsciously.


    2018?


    I definitely left my house when it was 2028, and was on my way to Jongno in 2028. I definitely rode the bus. But the date on my cellphone was definitely saying that it was 2018. Since when did it start saying that? I had no idea. At some point, the phone in my hand changed to the S8 phone model that I was using back in 2018. But it wasnt the time to be thinking about why this was the case.


    Im going to go insane.


    It wasnt enough to just say that I was going to go insane. I was having one of those so-called mental breakdowns.


    Im really ten years in the past?


    It seemed like the me of ten years ago went onto the Jongno-route bus of ten years ago. I didnt, no, <i>couldnt</i>, know why, but that was the conclusion I came to. It was absurd, but that was the conclusion I reached.


    * * *


    This is insane!


    My heart was pounding like crazy. Something unbelievable had happened. I was really going to lose it. I left the house like usual, and walked to the study room like usual. So how could I suddenly be ten years in the past? What kind of crazy situation was this? Faced with such an iprehensible phenomenon, my head was pounding and throbbing.


    If I really went back in time to 2018


    If by some chance, I was going to Jongno on April 27


    Shit!


    If I wasnt careful, I could die. April 27, 2018: That was the day that marked the beginning of the Cataclysm. 150,000 people died during the first week, the period called the Open Beta or the Tutorial. Only 5,000 survived. The survival rate was absolutely brutal.


    Proportionally, thats only 3 percent.


    97 percent died and 3 percent survivedthat was the Jongno of 2018. I decided to try and calm down for now.


    If I dont get it together, Ill die.


    I couldnt die so pathetically. I decided I would think about why all of this had happened to meter. Because if this was the Jongno of 2018, there was a 97 percent chance I would die.


    When I reached that point in my thoughts, an alert appeared.


    [The Tutorial will soon begin.]


    [yers, please prepare at your current position.]


    This was pretty much a confirmation.


    Even the alert happened.


    Whatever the reason may be, I had to acknowledge that I had returned to the past. Sitting on the bus seat, I organized my thoughts. My limbs were shaking, but I tried to stay asposed as possible. I knew the future. In fact, I knew it very well, because I had been memorizing the events of the past ten years for the past three years.


    You have to calm down. Calm down, Kim Hyukjin.


    Biting my lips hard, I closed my eyes for just a moment. I had to brace myself.


    As soon as the fog cleared, I would be seeing hell. I would see pools of blood and people being eaten alive by Goblins. Many people might have already died. To be honest, I was scared and afraid.


    Right. Even so, I have an advantage. I have to believe that. Shit. Shit. Shit.


    <i>I have a huge advantage. I can do it. I can do it. I can survive.</i> I braced myself by repeating this several times.


    For now lets focus on surviving.


    <i>I can do it. I can survive.</i> If I really did return to the past, I could save my mother who we couldnt afford treatment for, and my sister wouldnt have to quit school to work at a factory to pay for my education.


    My sister, who developed leukemia while working at a semiconductor factory to try and take care of me This time, I had the chance to be the one helping her.


    I just have to do it.


    Although I only ever experienced dungeons in VR, I had read Tutorial strategy guides a thousand times over, and watched Youtube videos on the subject ten thousand times over. There were countless dungeons that emted the Jongno of ten years ago, and strategy guides showing the contents of those dungeons were widespread all over the market.


    I was one of the people memorizing all of that information by rote.


    I will definitely survive.


    I had to check to be sure, but if I had actually gone into the past, my mother would still be alive, and my sister wouldnt be working at the semiconductor factory yet. At the very least, I could undo arge number of things that had gone wrong in my life. It could be that this was an opportunity.


    I have to live.


    Still sitting, I took a deep breath. I closed my eyes and organized my thoughts on the current situation.


    What did I have to do to live through this? What did I have to do from here on out?


    My limbs were shaking, but I made an effort to keep as calm as possible.


    I can do this.


    My will to survive was stronger than the shock I was feeling at the urrence of this improbable situation.


    The Primordial Fog. And the 1st wave of Goblin attacks.


    How should I get through the Goblin attack? My talent diagnosis showed me that it was close to zero. What could someone with as little talent to be a yer as I do to survive?


    There were definitely people without talent who lived through this before.


    How did they survive? The survival rate was 3 percent. I had to be in that 3 percent. I took another deep breath and sketched out an approximate n of what I had to do in my head.


    The Tutorial. Since Im inside the bus right now, a conditional safe zone will probably be announced.


    Iid out the actions I was going to take, piece by piece. I was surprised at how good my concentration was. It seemed that my desire to live was stronger than I thought. I was a lot moreposed and quick to adapt than I thought I could be.


    Soposed that it was almost unbelievable that I was someone who had an evaluation of [No Talent].


    Suddenly, another message appeared. In a very short amount of time, I had nned many things in my mind, detailing ways I could raise my survival rate by even a small amount, but I never considered the following message.


    [The Nameless Observer is carefully watching your actions.]


    [The Nameless Observer has begun to take an interest in you.]


    My thoughts ground to a halt for a split second.


    The Nameless Observer?


    A Guardian had started taking interest in me.


    But I heard that Guardians put an utmost importance on talent.


    They even had nicknames like talent leeches. Didnt Guardians hunt for talented yers early on so that they could invest in them? They were known for treating talentless people as less than human. So why were they interested in me?


    That wasnt the end of the iprehensible messages.

 Chapter 3: Nameless Observer (2)

    Chapter 3: Nameless Observer (2)


    Ten years ago, the System spread across the world, starting from Korea. This phenomenon breathed new life into our civilization and gave birth to countless celebrities, like the Tutorial Ender Fist King So Yoohyun and the me Lord Choi Sung-gu.


    Behind every famous yer was a Guardian. Not much was known about Guardians, just that they supported yers or requested something from them. Some Guardians made their yers strong, while others led their yers to ruin. Guardians were regarded as beings who observed our ying.


    Ive never heard of the Nameless Observer.


    I didnt know a thing about the Nameless Observer. It seemed he was a Guardian who revealed himself at the beginning of the ying. Considering that he wasnt famous, the nameless moniker suited him well.


    [The Nameless Observer wishes to bestow upon you an Open Beta Bonus.]


    [You have received an Open Beta Bonus.]


    Suddenly?


    I didnt even do anything, but I was given a bonus. Usually, you had to do something to a Guardians liking in order to receive such a thing.


    Whatever. For now, it must be a good thing.


    It was known that the worlds countless rankers received the Open Beta Bonus. You could call it a sort of extra boon for the advance party that began first.


    A 3 percent chance. This is a gift for surviving those odds.


    It was easier to think about it that way. Regardless of the reasoning as to why this Guardian was eyeing a talentless yer like myself, there was no downside to it.


    [Due to the Open Beta Advantage, you have received Calm Observers Eye.]


    [Calm Observers Eye has taken effect.]


    My wildly thumping heart began to settle down.


    Huh?


    My chest felt as hot as ever, but it felt like my head was cooling down, and much of my fear was subsiding.


    What a strange feeling.


    It felt like I was standing at the eye of a fierce battlefield.


    This is the power of the system.


    I was scared, but also excited. Everything around me felt muted. Even though my surroundings were ringing with cries like Whats going on?, it felt like those noises were getting naturally filtered away.


    Calm Observers Eye, huh.


    That was a befitting title. It almost felt like I was watching over the situation with a third-person view.


    [The Tutorial is beginning.]


    [Conditional Safe Zones will be announced.]


    Its really starting.


    In the end, I heard a notice that the Tutorial was starting.[In ten seconds, the Tutorial Quest will begin.] [10] [9]


    The bus was stuck in ce, perhaps because an ident had urred.


    To all passengers, I apologize. There is no way I can drive in this situation. I will open the door, so if anyone is willing to walk, please do so.


    This level of fog could be regarded as a natural disaster. The cars werepletely unable to budge.


    Shit! What a way to start the day!


    Two men wearing aviator-style sses walked towards the exit. It seemed they hadnt received the Tutorial Notice, which meant they hadnt been selected as yers.[6] [5]


    The timer counted down. I couldnt just do nothing. I knew all too well what was about to happen. I jumped up and yelled at the two men.


    Dont move!


    And then, I shouted at the bus driver, Close the door right now!


    W-What?


    Close it right now!


    Startled by the strength of my demand, the driver reflexively closed the door. Although I felt a little sorry for the driver, ten seconds was not enough time to exin everything. I then directed a loud voice to the eight or so people on the bus.


    Dont speak, dont move, dont even keep your eyes open. Just remain still.


    I spoke quickly, unsure if my words would have any effect. To them, I probably looked like a psycho, but I decided to give it my best.


    From now on, something unbelievable will happen. Everyone here could die. So please do your best to survive. First of all, staying still is your ticket to survival.


    That was the best I could do. There was no more time. I couldnt risk causing a panic. I had done everything I could.[The Nameless Observer looks at you with interest.]


    The clock ticked on.[2]


    [1]


    The events I had only seen in history books and textbooks unfolded before my eyes.


    [The Tutorial Quest is beginning.]


    [ The Intermediate Administrator is appearing.]


    The space near the drivers seat in the bus began to distort, and something took form from within.


    The Intermediate Administrator.


    That was their official name, but the name mostmonly used to describe them was Streamer, beings that acted as intermediaries between the Guardians observing us and the yers.


    The crowds first reaction was to be unsettled by the human-like shapeing from the distortion, and their second was to be astonished by that beings incredible beauty.


    Because most female Streamers are beautiful.


    The Streamer who appeared before us could be said to be so beautiful that she could contend for the top position among other Streamers. With her unnaturally silky silver hair and porcin white skin, she transcended beauty into pure nobility, and the pair of white wings behind her back almost made her look like a real angel.


    She really is extremely beautiful.


    I wasnt that drawn in. However, one guy on the bus was unable to take his eyes off her, his expression screaming that he had never seen such a beautiful woman in his life.


    Wow


    I saw him swallow his drool.


    Theres more to them than their beautiful appearance.


    I didnt know about this Streamer, but Streamers never stayed friendly to yers forever. They were obsessed with how they could connect yers and Guardians and how they could earn more COIN. Not all of them were that way, but most of them were.


    The woman began to speak.


    My name is Senia. Everyone here will be participating in the Tutorial Quest.


    [Survive the Tutorial Field for seven days.]


    [You cannot leave the Tutorial Field.][Subsequent difficulty will be determined by the number of survivors.]


    Senia. A Streamer of such beauty should be memorable, but I had no recollection of her. I guessed she was one of the Streamers from very, very early on in the Tutorial. After all, I knew the famous Streamers in the future.


    W-What? Do you know whats going on? Could it be that youre filming a movie here?


    Senia stared at the man who initiated a conversation with her, her expression utterly unchanged.


    All you must do is use your abilities to the utmost to survive.


    And whats that supposed to mean?!


    It would be best if he behaved himself. Our level was a pathetic 1, definitely not a position where one could be careless with a Streamer. Thankfully, this Streamer didnt seem violent. If hed been unlucky, that man would have been a corpse by now.


    Entries like [An Intermediate Administrator who introduced themselves as Leitra cut anyone who asked them a question in half, saying I dont recall permitting questions?] showed up frequently in peoples narrativester. Personally, I wasnt very interested in Streamers, despite their otherworldly appearance. I didnt trust Streamers on a fundamental level, and that was because most of them only thought of us as their method of ie.


    Most of all


    I wanted to live. I peered through the window, finding everything still nketed by thick fog.


    The Primordial Fog.


    This fog muffled sounds. ording to the Fist King So Yoohyun, the Tutorial Ender andter someone who became world-famous as a ranker, the fog inhibited sounds and simultaneously made you lose your sense of direction.


    A trap thatmonly appears in many other dungeons.


    Before the great explorer Jackson identified a method of dispelling this fog, the Primordial Fog was one of the most annoying traps.


    Such thing appeared in a tutorial


    It was different from what we typically associated as a tutorial. The purpose of a tutorial was to help adjust a new yer to a game. In essence, it was there to help. However, the real-life Tutorial was different.


    Ten yearster, people believed that the true essence of the Tutorial was this:


    An opening act shown to the Guardians.


    This ce, Jongnos Tutorial Field, was the opening act shown to the higher beings reducing mankind to yers inside a game so they could watch from above, the Guardians that absolutely needed to be struck down one day.


    Suddenly, a man next to me screamed. He must have seen something outside the window. H-H-Holy shit!


    My eyes opened, and I bit my lips.


    It has begun.


    I could easily figure out why the man screamed. The windshield at the front of the bus was painted with a few lines of fresh red streaks. That was blood. Something covered in blood had crashed onto the windshield before falling to the ground.


    H-Heok!


    W-Whats going on?


    W-What was that just now? Thats blood, isnt it?!


    In the meantime, Streamer Senia had disappeared. It seemed she was hustling from ce to ce around the Tutorial Field, striving to draw the attention of the Guardians.


    I also hadnt seen what hit the windshield. It couldve been a severed arm or leg, or even a head.


    Even after I told them to remain still.


    But I understood that it was easier said than done. Who in their right mind would be able to stay calm if someones cut-up corpse flew over and struck the windshield of the bus they were in? They might have heard my warning to stay still, but how could they possibly adhere to that?


    Stay calm.[Calm Observers Eye is taking effect.]


    The notification appeared as my heart became a little calmer. Due to the Open Beta Bonus, I was able to keep my cool. I continued to sketch out the situation in my head.


    The enemies that areing now are Goblins.


    The first monster to appear was the Goblin, a small green humanoid monster. They were only 80-100 cm in size, but they were far stronger than an average male adult and more agile. Their distinctive features were their pointy ears and long tongues.


    Monsters with sickening hobbies.


    They had a sickening taste for dismembering humans. They were probably enjoying that hobby to their utmost outside, ughtering the weak humansing face to face with monsters for the first time.


    [A great deal of noise and movement has been detected.]


    [The Goblin Legion is starting to get excited.]


    [The 1st wave of Goblin attacks is beginning.]


    [The Goblin Legion has begun to invade Jongno.]


    <i>Thump! Thump! Thump!</i>


    I could hear them.


    It was very faint, but my ears were even able to pick up a peculiar kind ofughter that went kikik, kikikik, kikik! I was very familiar with that soundI had heard it often on Youtube.


    Goblin sounds.


    The thumping noises were probably from them mbering onto cars and stomping on them.


    Another notification popped up.[The Nameless Observer is observing your actions with interest.]


    Following the start of the Tutorial, even more information flooded into my head. Things like how to use the Status Window to check my stats and how to open my inventory slotted into ce in my head like they belonged there.


    I opened up my Status Window as naturally as a person who had been ying for a long time. Strangely enough, everything was too easy, like I was someone who already knew how to do this.


    Status Window.


    All I could do as of now was to find out exactly about myself. I had to use this precious time wisely.


    I opened up my Status Window. There, something unbelievable was on disy.

 Chapter 4: The Lion Kings Proposal

    Chapter 4: The Lion King''s Proposal


    I closed my eyes, concentrating on the hologram window that only I could see. Even with my eyes closed, I could clearly see the window. I looked at it again with my full attention, but the Status Window was as unbelievable as ever.


    [Status Window]


    Name: Kim Hyukjin (yer)


    Level: 1


    Title:


    Strength: 10


    Intelligence: 12


    Agility: 11


    Perception: 11


    Constitution: 10


    Willpower: 13 (+30)


    These are my stats? They were higher than expected. Whats going on?


    No, they were way too high.


    Whyre they so high?


    Those numbers didnt make any sense.


    Fist King So Yoohyuns stats at the time of the tutorial were somewhere around an average of 9.


    The strongest yer in the worlds starting stats were around 9, but my stats were obviously around 11. So what did that mean? Even the lowest stats, Strength and Constitution, were set at a whopping 10, higher than the average of the Tutorial Ender, the Fist King.


    And my Willpower is 43?


    Considering that (+30) was tagged on, I guessed that this was the temporarily increased value from Calm Observers Eye. It wasnt the sort of value a level 1 yer should have, something you should never even have the chance to see during the Tutorial. Even without the Calm Observers Eye buff, a starting Willpower stat of 13 was incredibly high.


    My Intelligence was this high?


    The higher your starting stats, the more advantageous it was in the System. In essence, that was the domain of Intelligence. Level ups were the domain of manualbor and effort, but the growth that came with each level up was the domain of Intelligence and Perception.


    I really dont get it.


    It was just yesterday that I received a No Talent evaluation.


    [No Talent.]


    It was clearly written on the paper.


    Did something change when I returned to the past?


    I didnt know. It was still hard to say. For now, I knew that my starting stats were higher than the Fist Kings, which meant my chances of surviving had dramatically increased.


    Taking into consideration the fact that each point of starting stats makes a big difference Im in a really advantageous position.


    Just then


    <i>Thump! Thump!</i>


    The inside of the bus began to shake. I didnt open my eyes.


    Theyve got clubs.


    The bus was a conditional Safe Zone. As long as we didnt excite the Goblins, it would be safe. For now.


    I heard the voices of the men.


    H-Holy shit!


    The hell is that?


    How many of the eight people here could survive? I cracked open my eyes, taking a very small, very faint look.


    One person? Or maybe two? It could even be none.


    Through the windows of the bus, I could see green monsters jumping outside. The Goblins were only about one meter tall, but they could leap over two meters in the air. They battered the windows with their clubs, and the ss began to crack.


    Stay calm.


    Maybe thanks to Calm Observers Eye, I was able to examine the situation far more calmly than expected.


    <i>Crack!</i>


    The window finally shattered. Soon, the Goblins would stream in. I quietly nced at my watch.


    The bus earned us five minutes.


    This time was the reason I didnt let the bus driver open the door. Just five minutes. I thought it would be good if I had just five minutes more.


    F-F-Fuck off, you monsters!


    Uwahhh!


    I closed my eyes again.


    I guess staying still isnt something you can do by just being told.


    It was simple if you imagined that a one-meter cockroach was walking around in front of you. The Goblin right there was far bigger than one meter and was even armed, and it was a creature that relished killing. Anyone who <i>didnt </i>freak out just because they were told to stay still was out of the norm. I squeezed my eyes shut and bit my lips.


    It would be better not to look.


    My starting stats might be high, but I wasnt strong enough to face a Goblin swarm. I could picture the situation without seeing it. The guys had probably already perished to the crude hands of the Goblins. It was possible they had been ripped to pieces. A disgusting smell wafted over me. It was the Goblins body odor.


    I heard footsteps, and the voices of the monsters.


    <i>Kikik! Kikikikik! Kikikik!</i>


    I also heard the screams of the woman in the rearmost seat, an ear-splitting cry.


    H-Help! Help! Kyaaak!


    Something sttered onto me. Something hot ran down my cheek. I had the feeling that the liquid was red.


    This is blood.


    It seemed one of the Goblins even had a sword, evidenced by the sharp sound of flesh being sliced. That bloody, wet sound was so revolting I never wanted to hear it again.


    Even with the assistance of Calm Observers Eye, it was so terrible that I struggled to hold on.


    My limbs were trembling, but I stayed as calm as possible. If I crumbled or panicked here, I would die just like the others. I recalled the picture of my mom, the one who had consoled me yesterday. <i>Dont worry. Ill live well. Ill do my best. </i>Thats what I resolved to dost night.


    I want to live.


    <i>Kiik?</i>


    The sound came from right next to my ear.


    The Goblins came close to me, the sole survivor. Something cold touched my shoulder.


    Might be a palm


    It felt like one, a small palm. The palm of a green-skinned monster touched my shoulder. Fascinated by me, the creature pressed its nose on my cheek and sniffed. The rank breath of the Goblin mbering on my body was truly disgusting. I supposed my nausea.


    Dammit.


    Not a single scream could be heard. Everyone here had probably died. I didnt have the strength to protect them, and they didnt have the strength to protect themselves.


    This is terrible.


    They began to grope my body. One of them licked my shin with its long tongue. I could feel my pants eroding a little because of its acidic saliva. Some even poked my cheeks with ws that must be incredibly dirty, as if ying with a toy.


    I only need to hold out for five more minutes.


    A total of ten minutes. I needed to hold out without making a sound for just ten minutes. After that, I would be in the clear for a moment. That was a fact well-documented in Fist King So Yoohyuns memoir and a strategy I had seen many times on Youtube.


    Each and every second felt so very long. The Goblins using me as a jungle gym felt like giant cockroaches crawling on my body.


    After what felt like an eternity, I heard another notice.


    * * *


    [The Courageous Lion King has begun to take an interest in you.]


    [The Courageous Lion King wishes to give you a chance.]


    Yet another Guardian had be interested in me, which now made a whopping two Guardians. One was the Nameless Observer, and the other was the Courageous Lion King. The Courageous Lion King was also a Guardian I already knew.


    [The Courageous Lion King wishes to bestow you an Open Beta Advantage.]


    [The Courageous Lion King has gifted you High Strength Elixir.]


    [The Courageous Lion King looks forward to your courage.]


    I wasnt happy about it.


    The Courageous Lion King.


    The notoriety of this Guardian was particrly high, even among the many Guardians. The Courageous Lion King was very famous as a Guardian that imposed reckless courage, challenge-seeking, and useless zeal on yers, whether that meant yers died or not. He was a wicked Guardian who cared not a whit for the pain of a yer in a dangerous situation.


    The only thing that mattered to him was that yers had courage and challenged hardship head-on. It didnt matter to him if that challenge resulted in deathHe was a perverted bastard who simply enjoyed the process.


    If I were to act courageously here


    I would be eaten alive by the Goblin swarm surrounding me. In order to survive, I had to clearly differentiate when to be brave and when not to be, and right now, it was thetter.


    You dirty Goblin bastards.


    I upped my concentration. While these Goblins were crawling over my body, running their dirty tongues over me and prodding me all over with their dirty fingers, I had to focus on something else, or I would go insane.


    Focus.


    <i>Kikik! Kikik! Kiiik?</i>


    One of the Goblins licked my ear. At that moment, my focus cracked. I felt every hair on my body stand on end. My ear stung immensely from the acid in their saliva. It felt like my ear was melting.


    Argh!


    [The gifted High Strength Elixir has arrived.]


    [For the duration of the Tutorial, gifted items will be automatically sent to your Inventory.]


    [Would you like to ess your Inventory?]


    I bit down hard on my lower lip in order to keep myself from making a sound. Any movement or sound would be fatal right now. The moment I moved or made a sound, the conditional Safe Zone would shatter, and I would meet the same fate as the eight other people on this bus.


    I knew exactly how to ess my Inventory.


    Inventory.


    You just had to think it in your head. My eyes were closed, but the Inventory hologram was clearly disyed before me. It wasnt something you saw with the physical eye, but a perception fed to the brain to make it appear as if you were looking at it with your eyes.


    [High Strength Elixir]


    The Courageous Lion Kings gift. An Open Beta Bonus, it will take effect for ten minutes.


    Temporarily increases Strength by 6.


    Plus 6?


    You gained 2 bonus stats with each level up. I heard you could gain more bonus stats by satisfying special conditions, but in any case, the base number you got was two.


    If I use this I made the mental calction. Itd be like leveling up three times.


    My current level was 1. If my Strength was increased by 6, it would be like me being level 4 after only raising my Strength stat with every level.


    My starting stats are way higher than normal yers.


    yers of the highest level averaged around 9 for starting stats, and I had an even higher average. With that in mind, while I was under the effect of this potion, I figured I would be something like a level 5 or 6 yer.


    Goblins can normally be hunted at around level 6.


    The Courageous Lion King most likely gifted me the High Strength Elixir after taking this into consideration. It might have been that he wanted to see the iling of a pathetic level 1 yer, a struggle thatsted ten minutes.


    You perverted bastard.


    I really didnt like the Courageous Lion King. However, there was another item in my Inventory, one of the items distributed to all yers at random, aka a starter item.


    [Rusted Iron Sword]


    An iron sword covered in rust. You shouldnt expect much killing power from it.


    Attack Power: 2~5


    It was an extremely shabby item, but it was still much better than nothing. If I used the High Strength Elixir and the Rusted Iron Sword, I might be able to hunt Goblins. But as I had repeatedly emphasized, this wasnt the time to fight. I could not hunt the Goblin swarms on my own.


    If I wait a little longer, the Goblins attack will stop for a moment.


    I didnt know exactly how long, but it was probably something like two or three minutes longer. Afterwards, the Goblins would disappear. If the Fist King So Yoohyuns records were correct, at least.


    As if to prod me onwards, I heard another notice.[The Courageous Lion King looks forward to your courage.]


    I did my best to ignore the notice. It was true that catching the eye of a Guardian was a favorable thing for a yer. But you couldnt survive if you always acted ording to the desires of a Guardian. That much was an established fact. Taking what should be taken and refusing what should be refused was the right call. When I stayed motionless, my eyes still closed, another notice rang in my ear.[The Courageous Lion King requests a trade with an Intermediate Administrator.]


    That was the moment where things began to derail. That moment.


    Various thoughts whirled in my head. The disposition of the Courage Lion King. The nature of the Tutorial Field. The potential trades a Guardian could request from an Intermediate Administrator. Like a puzzleing together, all the pieces connected one by one in the head of me, Kim Hyukjin.


    Piecing everything together


    I knew what kind of picture the Courageous Lion King wanted to see.

 Chapter 5: The Lion Kings Proposal (2)

    Chapter 5: The Lion King''s Proposal (2)


    The space distorted, and a female Streamer, Senia, appeared from within. She was a terribly beautiful Streamer, but she didnt look beautiful at all to me.


    The Tutorial Field will be altered ording to the suggestion of the Courageous Lion King.


    These kinds of events happened sometimes. A Guardian could use their special authority to make slight alterations. I knew what the Lion King would propose.


    I hoped this wouldnt happen. I bit my lip a little. He will definitely try to induce me to fight.


    I was sure of it.


    The best method at his disposal is to destroy the conditional Safe Zone.


    Guardians were limited in how they could engage with yers. They could do things like support a yer or sponsor them with COIN, but there were many restrictions on direct interference with ying. But this was still within their limits. They could still ask an Intermediate Administrator to destroy a conditional Safe Zone.


    The trade has been concluded. ording to the request of the Courageous Lion King, the conditional Safe Zone will be abolished in thirty seconds.


    She unblinkingly spoke such words withplete indifference, despite knowing all too well that I could not handle a Goblin swarm with my current strength.


    I know youre aware of that fact and more. I know about this world very well.


    It was possible that I knew more about the world than Senia. The Kim Hyukjin who became a ying nerd over the three years of test prep was not to be underestimated.


    I said, If a Guardian forcefully alters the scenario, shouldnt there be a corresponding reward for the yer?


    Senia simply stared at me with her emotionless face. I couldnt read her expression, but it looked like she was saying that theints of a level 1 insect mattered not a whit to her. She also wasnt very ruffled by my talking down on her.


    The Laws cannot be ignored, especially if it is rted to my life or death. You cannot ignore the Commandments.


    I heard a notice.


    [The Nameless Observer expresses their surprise.]


    [The Courageous Lion King is silent.]


    Did you just say Commandments?


    Thats right. Commandments.


    In this System, there were rules, aka Commandments, that pervaded the entirety of the System.


    How do you know about the Commandments?


    Is that important?


    How could that be important when I was at the fork between life and death?


    Im sure you know that a yer doesnt have to concretely exin their ying methods, right?


    Senia didnt say anything. Streamers were generally talkative, but this one seemed a little different.


    The reason why such a beautiful person didnt be well-known must be linked to that frustratingly tight-lipped nature.


    I nced at the time. Ten seconds had already passed.


    Ive lost out on Safe Zone time talking to you, the Intermediate Administrator. My reward?


    In ordance with the Commandments, I will increase the Safe Zone time. The Safe Zone will remain in effect for ten seconds after your conversation with me ends.


    That was excellent. That was exactly what I wanted. The 1st wave of Goblin attacks would end very soon. I only had to hold out for a little longer. The Courageous Lion King tried to start some nonsense, but it didnt matterthe time was passing all the same.


    I spoke again, This is a scenario alteration linked to my life or death. I think an appropriate reward is in order. Am I wrong?


    Let me ask again. Am I wrong?


    I guessed she was rather flustered. A level 1 piece of trash was speaking to a Streamer with such impoliteness, yet there was no justification for punishment. That was because my argument was rted to the Laws, or Commandments that were only discovered seven years in the future.


    She might be happy right now.


    My actions right now were definitely eye-catching and likely to draw the interest of many Guardians, so it could very well be that this Streamer was inwardly delighted by my actions.


    After a short moment, she said, yer Kim Hyukjin. Your words are correct.


    As she said that, an item was sent into my Inventory.


    [Quality Lubricant]


    Good quality lubrication oil. It can sharpen the de of an item with an edge, or be applied on a part that requires lubrication. It is characterized by its tremendous slickness.


    The scenario alteration reward is only this?


    My face twisted into a slight frown. It seemed a bit weak for a reward. Still, a reward was a reward, and I had dragged out the time for as long as possible while talking to the Streamer, the Intermediate Administrator. That was a very valid way to think about it.


    Lion King. You idiot.


    The Lion King actually ended up helping me. Thanks to him, I was able to drag out plenty of time, and do it safely. Im sure nobody expected a level 1 yer to bring up the Commandments in a little trick to drag out the time. Of course, that applied to me as well. Such a method only urred to me on the fly.


    [The 1st wave of Goblin attacks is over.]


    [The Courageous Lion King is deeply disappointed.]


    I secretly breathed a sigh of relief.


    I survived the 1st wave.


    I couldnt be sure, but the damned Courageous Lion King was probably scratching his ass like a dog with hemorrhoids. Why? Because the Goblins were going to disappear now from this field.


    <i>Kikik? Kikik! Kiiik!</i>


    The Goblins began to move. They hade like the rising tide, and now, they were disappearing like receding waters.


    This is my chance.


    I jumped to my feet. The Streamer Senia leveled her gaze on my every movement, neither helping nor interfering. Seeing as she hadnt yet disappeared, it seemed she had a certain degree of interest in me.


    I headed for the bus exit.


    Urgh


    A gruesome hell wasid out before me. There was hardly an intact body to be found. Up until a few moments ago, it was the inside of an all-too-ordinary busmonly seen on the morningmute, but now, <i>seven</i> corpses were scattered about, some ripped to pieces and some missing parts.


    Eughh.


    Bile rose in my throat. It was terrible. I didnt want to look anymore. It felt like the syed out man, whose arm was caught on the seat, was staring at me with his open, ssy eyes, like he would rise in the next moment and chase me.


    Come to your senses.


    I had to keep it together. This was the Tutorial Field, a ce with an official survival rate of just 3 percent.


    I have to hold out for one week.


    One weekthat was how long I had to endure. I had ridden this bus day after day for three years and frequently went through this area. At the very least, I knew exactly where the streetside convenience stores were.


    The fogs grown thicker.


    After pushing open the bus door, I descended. The disgusting sewer smell together with the intense reek of blood crashed into me. I was actually d the fog was there. If I had seen this ce in the bright light of day with a clear line of sight, I might have gone insane.


    First of all, I need water and food.


    It was nearly impossible to survive without drinking for seven days. The convenience store was my first destination.


    I had a total of ten minutes.


    Lets go.


    Oddly enough, I moved as naturally as a person who had yed before, like someone who had done this many times.


    Even up until that point, I hadnt really realized how high my Intelligence was.


    * * *


    My surroundings looked very hazy. I saw cars amidst the metallic bloody stench, and bodies made into a mess of bright red blood were scattered along the pathway. From the midst of that devastation came the voices of survivors. Inside the fog, eyesight and hearing were greatly inhibited.


    Considering were in the fog quite a few people survived the 1st wave of Goblin attacks.


    I started running towards the convenience store. They said your sense of direction would pretty much disappear in this fog, and that seemed about right. I nced back at the blue bus; After just a few steps, it was barely visible. I ran with the bus at my back.


    This is the right way.


    If I went this way, there would be a convenience store not far from here. I ran forward, relying on my senses. A distance that had to be less than 300 meters felt so inexplicably long. I found out for the first time that I valued life so fiercely.


    But as I ran, my foot hit something, most likely a person.


    Is it another body?


    But no, it wasnt a body. Under my footy a person who was not yet a corpse.


    A sobbing voice sounded in my ears. H-Help me. Please. Please save me.


    It was a young girl in her early teens. Paralyzed with fear, the child wasying on the ground covering her head, trembling. She raised her head and stared at me with the gaze of a child looking at an adult, a gaze yearning for help.


    I suddenly heard the sound of something being sliced. At that moment, I could only flinch in rm.


    Theres a Goblin here?


    I hadnt seen it because of the fog, but there was still a Goblin here.


    Even though the 1st wave of the Goblin attacks is over?


    ording to countless records and VR dungeon simtions, the Goblins should bepletely gone. That was the established theory, and none of the many guides described anything like this. In other words, this Goblin was a variable.


    <i>Kikik. Kikikik!</i>


    It was about fifty centimetres tall.


    Its not an adult?


    It wasnt an adult Goblin, but a young one. Even so, it apparently knew a measure of the disgusting Goblin tastes, because it was hard at work slicing the girls ankles with the dagger in its hand. <i>Slice, slice</i>came the gruesome sound. Faced with such a situation, I struggled to make a choice.


    Do I run?


    To run, or not to run? To run, or not to run?


    I do think I can defeat a baby Goblin, at least.


    It varied per person, but the universal rmended level for hunting a Goblin was around 5. The one in front of me wasnt a real Goblin, but a baby one. For me, with the starting stats of a top-level yer, a baby Goblin should be manageable, at least if I were given a little time.


    I heard the sobbing voice again.


    Heuk heuk. Please, help me, help me. Please, please, save me. I wanna see my mommy.


    I bit my lips. It was possible I might lose my sense of directionpletely if I stopped to help this girl. That meant I could be exposed to the 2nd wave with no defenses.


    P-Please. Save me.


    While I was in the middle of struggling to decide what to do, I suddenly realized one strange point.


    Come to think of it Goosebumps rose on my arms. I dont see any blood. At all.


    This girl wasnt even screaming in pain. She wasnt screaming in pain, just crying out in shock.


    It might be a baby Goblin, but there was still a dagger in its hands. It was using the de to hack away at this schoolgirls ankles. It seemed the baby Goblin waspletely absorbed with the task of cutting the girls ankles.


    She hasnt taken any damage.


    Had this schoolgirl also received an Open Beta Bonus? She might have received something that could protect her body.


    But even if thats the case How could a girl this young have?


    At best, she was a middle school student. It was known that talent tes typically opened up the most from oneste teens to early 20s, meaning this girl in her early teens hadnt even properly opened up yet.


    Shes blocking that dagger without any armor, with just the abilities of her bare body.


    That would be impossible, even for the Fist King So Yoohyun at level 1. This girl didnt even know about her own condition right now. She merely felt a sharp sensation at her ankles with some slicing noises. In her state of panic, she didnt even realize that she was still perfectly fine.


    Is this the <i>talent</i> Ive only heard about?


    What would happen if she were given a chance to really grow? And if he could make her an ally? Or even if he could just make her indebted to him for saving her life?


    In the worst case scenario, she could


    There probably wouldnt be many opportunities like that, but this girls resilience could be a huge help to me in the worst case scenario. She was orders of magnitude different from a guy like me who had received a No Talent evaluation because I had no talent tes.


    Theres no time.


    The 2nd wave of attacks would soon begin.


    Having followed me, Senia said, Even though it is a baby Goblin, it would be very difficult for someone with level 1 abilities to defeat.


    Senia had apparently recognized me as good quality content. It seemed she had at least judged that it would be a waste to let me die here.


    I had to make a decision.


    I will!

 Chapter 6: Level 8 in Practice

    Chapter 6: Level 8 in Practice


    I knew the strategies for clearing the Tutorial very well. No, not just the Tutorial, but all the events that would happen afterwards. After all, that was what I had memorized by rote for three years.


    I know about this field better than anyone.


    I didnt have the time, the leisure, or the money. Although hobbies were a luxury for me, I still had one. There was just one thing I had enjoyed, and that was sitting in front of the 10-year-oldputer in my half-basement room and watching Youtube videos with the resolution fully turned down.


    When ites to the theory, Im way more knowledgeable than most yers.


    I had no talent. That was the evaluation I received. In a world of yers where talent was valued over all else, No Talent meant you couldnt rise to the top on effort alone. The talentless me simply browsed Youtube dungeon strategy videos several times over, dreaming of a reality that couldnt be.


    [Even though it is a baby Goblin, it would be very difficult for someone with level 1 abilities to defeat it.]


    Those words were meaningless to me. Fighting it head on would be difficult, but I knew its weakness.


    A Goblins weakness.


    As expected of a low-rank monster, Goblins had one weakness that could be easily exploited.


    <i>Kikik! Kikikikik!</i>


    The baby Goblin was still focusing on cutting the young girls ankles.


    The back of the neck.


    I breathed out.


    The center of the back of the neck.


    In the center, there was arge ck dot. That was a fatal weak point where a good hit could cause instant death to the Goblin. Actually, as long as you knew its weakness, a Goblin was an easy monster to conquer. It was just that they tended to move in swarms, the numbers being problematic.


    Inventory.


    For a moment, it seemed as if a faint light wasing from my hand, and then an item appeared in my grip. To me, it wasnt that shocking a sight.[Equipped the Rusted Iron Sword.]


    I stealthily walked to the back of the baby Goblin.


    Ill pierce it.


    I was someone who had struggled to kill a single big cockroach before this. I bit my lips hard. I had topletely resolve myself.


    Die!


    Holding the Rusted Iron Sword, I plunged the de into the back of the baby Goblins neck.


    <i>Squelch!</i>


    From the tip of the de, to the hilt of the sword, to my hand, I felt the chilling sensation of piercing through flesh.


    I-I did it.


    I killed it in one blow.


    <i>Splurt!</i>


    Blood sttered, and a part of itnded on my clothes, but I paid it no heed. I didnt have the time for that.


    [Baby Goblin has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    It wasnt visible to the eye, but I was able to confirm that I had received EXP. It was a feeling that automatically appeared in my head. A third of the EXP bar filled up.


    I really killed it.


    And in one blow. Yes, it was only a baby Goblin, and yes, I knew the strategy, but that I was able to kill it in one blow could only be described as having good luck.


    I was lucky.


    It was really not easy for a total beginner, no matter how high their starting stats, to kill a monster in one hit.


    Wait Was it really lucky? I couldnt be sure. Such a situation could only be described as lucky, but Why is it so easy?


    Somehow, it was too easy. It was a little iffy to say it boiled down being lucky. My hand went through the motions as if familiar with them, like I had been ying since long ago.


    It seemed this situation was unexpected for Streamer Senia as well. Her mouth moved almost imperceptibly, and she spoke in a low voice. She was probably narrating the scene to the Guardians.


    [A level 1 yer has killed a baby Goblin with just one attack.]


    She was speaking calmly, but the tips of Senias wings were trembling. It was one of the characteristics of angel Streamers. Whenever there was a disturbance in their emotions, the tips of their wings would tremble.


    I decided to handle the important matters in front of me first.


    Get up. The girls eyescked focus. Get a hold of yourself. If you lose track of me, Ill leave you behind.


    Those words must have had an effect, because the teenager snapped to her senses.


    I-Iming.


    I walked ahead of her. There wasnt much time. Not long from now, the 2nd wave of attacks would begin.


    * * *


    I entered the convenience store. ncing behind me, I saw that the girl was trailing closely in a half-conscious state. I closed the door.


    Senia was standing amidst the Goblin swarm, looking noble as she stood there all alone while describing the scenery around her. Perhaps she had set me as her main target, because she didnt stray far from me.


    No matter what happens from now on, dont open this door.


    Understood?


    I understood the girl had been in huge shock, but I had no intention of entertaining excessive childishness. Because this was the Tutorial Field, where 14,500 out of 15,000 people perished, and because I wouldnt do something so foolish as surrendering my life in order to take care of one kid.


    Answer me. Do you understand?


    The girl nodded.


    No matter whoes, even if they ask you to open it, you must never, ever open the door.


    I-I understand. I promise.


    The girl waspletely taken over by fear. To her, I was probably simultaneously her lifes savior and a monstrous man who had stabbed a terrifying green beast to death. Her fear was understandable.


    [The 2nd wave of Goblin attacks will soon begin.]


    [The establishment of Safe Zones is beginning.]


    I asked, You hear the notices too, right?


    N-Notices?


    The voice you hear in your head.


    Ah


    It seemed this girl had thought of this sound not as a notice, but something like an auditory hallucination.


    What did you hear?


    Soon an attack will be starting. And that Safe Zones are being established


    Where, exactly?


    T-The school and convenience store, the hospital theyve been established as Safe Zones.


    Thats right.


    My guess that this girl had awakened as a yer was correct.


    So she heard the hospital.


    People with a normal amount of talent would only hear up to the convenience store. People with more outstanding talent would hear the hospital as well. That was what was known.


    But wait, didnt I hear the hospital too?


    But I even heard an additional notice.[In addition, the 2nd floor of the D-Tower parking lot is being established as an extra Safe Zone.]


    I stared at the girl.


    I dont think she heard that?


    She hadnt said anything afterwards, so it seemed she hadnt heard 2nd floor of the D-Tower parking lot.


    Whats going on?


    I felt a bit of panic. There was another Safe Zone other than the hospital? That was something I hadnt known at all. Such a Safe Zone didnt show up even in the memoir of the Tutorial Ender, Fist King So Yoohyun. None of the past yers had said anything about there being another Safe Zone in the Tutorial.


    And its the D-Tower parking lot of all ces?


    Was there always a Safe Zone in the central field of the Tutorial, the D-Tower? If there was, it wasnt widespread knowledge.


    [The establishment of Safe Zones has concluded.]


    [The 2nd wave of Goblin attacks is beginning.]


    I had to steel myself. Soon, hell would break loose. Those who hadnt found a Safe Zone, those who hadnt gone into the buildings fast enough, they would all die.


    Dont open the door, ever. Actually, dont even look in the direction of the door and sit down with your back to it.


    This ce was an established Safe Zone. It was impossible to forcibly break in. Breaking the ss door toe in was also impossible, for monsters and people alike. Only a yer or monster of a rank that exceeded the establishment parameters could break in.


    Theres no one like that in the Tutorial.


    The moment the door was opened from within, the Safe Zone would be deactivated, and I would have no choice but to greet a gruesome death.


    [The Primordial Fog is starting to recede.]


    The world outside the window was ghastly. Laying here and there were corpses. It was as if the city had been painted with crimson red paint. There were pieces of people, not mannequins, scattered about, and the road was absolute pandemonium.


    O-O-Open the door! I said open the door!


    Open up! Open the door. Im begging you!


    People, <i>a lot of people,</i> banged on the door of the convenience store. I didnt open it.


    Dammit. I bit my lips and clenched my fists. This is truly painful.


    Outside, Goblins were forming swarms. People gathered in small groups to put up a resistance, but as expected, they couldnt deal with those numbers.


    I could only watch from this spota safe ceas people died and were eaten alive.


    Dammit!!


    I didnt turn away from any of it. I had to watch.


    Ill remember it all.


    One day, I would fuck over the System and the Guardians that created this situation and were watching this hell like they were enjoying a game.


    This moment, this scene. I wont forget it.


    I looked harder.


    Never. Ill never forget.


    * * *


    A day passed. The girls name was Kang Sunhwa. She was in her first year of middle school. At first, she was frozen in fear, but she recovered fairly quicklyher mental fortitude was stronger than expected. It was a relief that she got a hold of herself quickly.


    Um may I call you oppa?


    TN: Oppa is a familiar term used by girls for an older man.


    I gave a slight nod. Oppa was correct, because mister wasnt quite right. My mental age aside, I had returned to twenty years of age. With a six year difference between us, oppa was about right.


    After around six hours since the beginning of the 2nd wave, it became rather quiet. By which I meant, there werent that many living people nearby.


    Thank you. For saving me. I havent thanked you properly yet. I was just so scared


    Looking at the way her eyes reddened while speaking, it seemed she hadnt quite gotten over her shock. Yes. That was normal. But still, it was pretty impressive. She looked pretty calmat least on the outside.


    Im so d I met you, oppa.


    Thank you so much.


    The conversation became rather one-sided.


    Please dont throw me away. Im a really good girl. Im good at washing dishes, cleaning, and tidying my clothes.


    Oh. That so?


    For words spoken by a 14-year-old, they were a bit strange. I was surprised she suddenly asked me not to throw her away. People didnt usually say things like that, even with the situation being the way it was, right? Was it because she was that scared of being abandoned? I didnt know how to respond.


    It was true that I saved this girl, but it was also a calcted move, not out of the sheer kindness of my heart.


    Thats enough with the thanks. We dont know if either of us will survive to the end anyway.


    Still


    If necessary, I will use you as bait and make a run for it.


    Sunhwas face darkened. I decided to give it to her straight.


    Another six hours passed. In the meantime, Sunhwa had apparently gotten more familiar with me.


    I think I can survive if Im with oppa. Though Im just as scared as before


    She attempted a fairly bright smile, trying to put on a brave front.


    Shes cute.


    It was pretty cute. There wasnt much meaning behind it, just that she was cute. Obviously, it was absolutely not as a man to woman sense. How should I say it? She was kinda like a niece.


    Oppa looks very strong.


    If I were strong, I would have gone out there and killed them all.


    I pointed out the window. Outside the Safe Zone, Goblins were staring at us, snickering and mming their clubs into the window. Almost as if we were animals trapped in a zoo.


    With a shriek, Sunhwa scrambled backwards on her butt and hid behind me. She had a really small build.


    O-Oppa, arent you scared?


    Who knows?


    I <i>was </i>scared. But more pressing than my fear was my anger, the helplessness of not being able to do anything. That was more present in my mind.


    After the 2nd wave of attacks


    Until the end of the Goblins 2nd wave of attacks, it was all about staying hidden. But once the 2nd wave ended, things would change a little.


    I might not be able to protect you for the seven days of the Tutorial.


    And I cant takeplete responsibility for you, either.


    Looking after myself was hard enough.


    However, I wont leave you here if nothing happens, so get some rest.


    Sunhwa stared at me with eyes full of tears. It seemed she thought I would leave her and go if she fell asleep.


    Hey. I wont. Unless its a situation where my lifes in danger, I wont throw you away, so trust me and go to sleep.


    You really wont? I can trust you, right?


    She was rather scared of being abandoned. I said, as if annoyed, Just trust me. Even if you dont, what can you do?


    T-Thats true, Sunhwa said, looking defeated.


    So get some rest for now. Youll need your energy.


    Got it. Ill do as you say.


    After the 2nd wave of attacks, I would have to walk through the road littered with corpses. My destination would be the crux of clearing the Tutorial, which coincidentally happened to be the Gwanghwamun D-Tower, the location of the established Safe Zone that no one else had heard of.

 Chapter 7: Level 8 in Practice (2)

    Chapter 7: Level 8 in Practice (2)[The convenience store Safe Zone has been deactivated.]


    I put food and water into my Inventory and left. Having no proper means of transportation, we would have to walk all the way from the store to the D-Tower.


    Doing alright?


    A response came from behind me. Im alright.


    They must have been brutal sights, difficult for a 14-year-old to handle, but Sunhwa looked fairly calm.


    How could she be alright?


    There was no way she was. If I listened carefully, I could hear something like sniffling and sobbing behind me. I didnt check to see, but she was probably crying. There was no way shed seen anything like this before.


    I wonder if this is what a city on the verge of ruin, no an already ruined city feels like.


    It felt like the entirety of Jongno had be a ghost town.


    I wonder if there are even 10,000 people still alive by now.


    That was my best guess, but in all actuality, the number wasnt the important thing right now.


    I cant see any people.


    There were corpses, not people, lining the road. Inside a car, sitting in the drivers seat, was a headless I made myself stop there.


    Keep your eyes on the ground. Be sure to tell me if you see any jelly-like thing crawling around.


    On the way to D-Tower, we had to hunt. Our primary goal was Slimes. As neutral monsters, they didnt attack unless attacked first. Their levels were marked as -. They were the safest monsters, ones that even a 10-year-old child could kill.


    Oppa, theres one over there.


    I also spotted the jelly-shaped monster crawling out from under a car.


    [Slime. -]


    Sure enough, it had no levels and was marked with a -. I approached the Slime and swung my sword. As could be expected from its jelly shape, there was a sloshing sensation, but the damage was properly inflicted. They werent hard to kill.


    [EXP acquired.]


    [3 Coins acquired.]


    It disappeared.


    Yeah. Theyre really weak monsters. Lets go. We have to keep killing them while we walk.


    Here as well, I could feel it.


    Whys it so easy?


    No matter how weak a monster it was, it felt way too easy. I had felt this from the start, but it felt like I had always been ying.


    This Rusted Iron Sword


    Did I maybe use it in my dreams? Even if I did, for a weapon Id never used before, it felt extremely familiar in my hand, almost as if I had trained with it for a long time.


    Keep a good eye out for them.


    Got it. Ill try to find them.


    Sunhwa did the best she could. Here, in this ce littered with corpses, this gruesome ce stained by pools of blood, she was adapting far better than I had expected.


    Oppa. Theres one here!


    Her ability to find the monsters alone seemed far better than mine.


    Oppa, over here.


    After hunting about five Slimes, I heard the level up notice.


    [Level increased.]


    [Current level: 2]


    [2 bonus stats acquired.]


    [1 random bonus stat acquired.]


    Sunhwa stared at me in fascination. Oppa, your body was shining just now. Howe?


    I leveled up.


    Leveled up? She seemed amazed by leveling up.


    Yeah. You level up when you kill monsters. And when you level up, you be stronger.


    Ah I see. After a pause, I also want to work hard to level up and be like oppa.


    Sunhwas face was still full of curiosity, but perhaps because she didnt want to annoy me, she didnt pester me with more questions. I caught a few more Slimes.


    [Level increased.]


    [Current level: 3]


    [2 bonus stats acquired.]


    [1 random bonus stat acquired.]


    Once again, I noticed that something was strange.


    Its weird. For some reason, I had the feeling I was leveling up too quickly. Is it different when you y in person?


    The only ying I had experienced was in VR, like VR videos on Youtube and VR experiences like virtual dungeons, and the rote memorization of strategy guides through textbooks. That was the limit of my ying.


    In person, it actually feels like Im leveling up really fast. That wasnt all. Ive already gotten 2 random bonus stats.


    Random bonus stats werent usually given that frequently. That applied in the Tutorial Arena as well.


    The Fist King So Yoohyun also said he hadnt seen random bonus stats that often.


    Even the pride of Korea, the named yer So Yoohyun who ranked within the top 10 in Korea when it came to talent, said it had been difficult for him to get bonus stats. But I had already earned two, and I was only at level 3.


    I suddenly thought back to the evaluation results.


    [No Talent.]


    A few days ago, those two words had stung particrly badly. I sorted the thoughts in my head.


    Did I gain talent I didnt have in the process of returning to the past?


    If that wasnt it


    An early bloomer yer who sees explosive growth only in the beginning.


    That seemed like the most likely option. There were a lot of them in Korea as well. Countless yers had appeared like meteors and had faded just as quickly. Many yers, called Rising Stars or Super Rookies, made their names with their explosive speed of level ups and incredible skills in the lower levels, but were unable to pass the middle levels and faded into obscurity.


    That Im an early bloomer is the most likely possibility.


    I decided to think of it like that. I had to approach it this way so I wouldnt be disappointedter. Id look only a few steps ahead, not a few miles.


    For now, its advantageous for me.


    Someone who had nothing, absolutely jack, returned to the past and somehow survived the 1st and 2nd Goblin waves, and even drew the attention of Guardians. Even assuming I was an early bloomer, I was already level 3.


    The goal is to survive, and then I came up with a goal. $1 million.


    That was my goal. Even an early bloomer yer could earn $1 million without much difficulty. With that much money, I would be able to get treatment for my mom. In three years, the illness curing potion would be put on the market.


    Lets not look too far ahead.


    I did want to strike down the Guardians, but that was too far in the future. I might even be an early bloomer yer. For now, my goal was to survive, and then, earn $1 million. I could think of what came afterwardster.


    [Level increased.]


    [Current level: 5]


    I got bonus stats and random stats yet again. Before I knew it, I was level 5.


    [Party System activation is now possible.]


    I immediately sent Sunhwa a party invite. Sunhwa was shocked and asked, Whats this?


    But she epted the party invite before long.


    [The Nameless Observer is observing you with interest.]


    [The Nameless Observer is showing great interest in you.]


    I didnt hear any notices from the Courageous Lion King.


    As we continued to walk to D-Tower, the girl trailing behind me said, Thank you.


    For what?


    Ill do my best. Ill be of help to oppa.


    What was she on about all of a sudden again? I was about to say Id leave her behind if she wasnt helpful when she continued speaking.


    So Please dont throw me away.


    Again? I really couldnt understand why she was always begging not to be abandoned.


    Please dont give up on me. Ill really do my best.


    I did feel a little bad for her. What would drive such a young girl to say something like this? But I kept up a hard front and said, Show me with your actions and not your words.


    It mightve seemed cold, but I rationallyid out the reality. Half-assed sympathy or kindness would only harm the child.


    If I dont need you, I will throw you away without hesitation.


    It was hard enough to take care of myself. My leveling speed was much faster than expected and I had already gotten four random bonus stats, but that was nothing. When I hunted the monster waiting on the 1st floor of the D-Tower, there was no guarantee I could protect Sunhwa.


    To begin with It was weird Id be protecting anyone.


    What could a level 5 yer do? The path ahead was something you walked on your own. In any case, it seemed like my words had gotten through to Sunhwa.


    But then, Sunhwa said, Isnt that a different monster?


    * * *


    In the Gwanghwamun area, in front of the Statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin, were different monsters that werent Slimes.


    City Foxes.


    Their levels were 2 or 3.City Fox LVL 3


    They werent difficult monsters to kill. But killing them felt way harder than Slimes. It was because I wasnt used to killing living beings yet.


    Even though the Goblins are dead.


    The overall grey, fox-shaped monsters were passive monsters. If you didnt mess with them, they were neutral, but they would aggro the moment you attacked. Attacking one would draw others towards you.


    Hm?


    But when Sunhwa said Taunt, a !!! mark appeared above the heads of the City Foxes, and they came running towards Sunhwa. The City Foxes wildly bit at Sunhwas body.


    I was shocked. AOE aggro?


    They were just low-level monsters at level 2 or 3, and Sunhwa was only level 3, but she was able to achieve an AOE aggro of this level. It looked like she had taunted all of the City Foxes in the area, which looked to be about 14 foxes.


    Shes not taking any damage.


    I wasnt sitting around, sucking my thumb, either. Most animal monsters had the neck as the weak spot. I was able to hunt the City Foxes without difficulty. Leveling with Slimes was difficult now, but when I killed the City Foxes, my EXP shot up.


    [EXP acquired.]


    [7 Coins acquired.]


    [Level increased.]


    [Current level: 8]


    All of my fatigue disappeared with the level ups. That was a special characteristic of level upswhen you rose one level, all of your fatigue would fly away, and you would return to your best condition.


    My leveling speed is way faster than I thought.


    I was already level 8. If things had gone as I expectededucated guess from countless stratsI would be around level 5 by now. I thought I would just be getting to the Party System, but I was already level 8. It might seem as though level 5 and 8 werent that different, but that was absolutely not the case.


    4 level ups vs. 7. In terms of speed, its nearly twice as fast.


    Going from level 4 to 8 was way harder than going from 1 to 4. With that in mind, I was leveling up at more than double the speed. Far faster than expected.


    This is a crazy leveling speed.


    It was so fast it was absurd. The Guardians seemed to think the same, because Senia, who had been wandering around, approached me. She captured the scene of me leveling up and asked, yer Kim Hyukjin, what is your current level?


    I thought for a moment. Should I tell her, or not? There were advantages to both options. I decided to tell her, for now.


    Level 8.


    Senias wingtips trembled again.


    Theres no mistake that youre level 8?


    You can scan me if you want.


    Senia stared at me in disbelief for a while. After a long moment, she opened her mouth again.


    You really are level 8.


    She didnt show it, but she seemed shocked. There was no doubt; My leveling speed was out of the ordinary. It wasnt just my imagination.


    [The Nameless Observer expresses their surprise at your leveling speed.]


    [Arge number of anonymous Guardians are amazed.]


    After checking my level, Senia returned to her usual half-transparent state.


    My leveling speed must definitely be really damn fast.


    Sunhwa and I hunted a little longer in the vicinity.


    [City Fox has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [7 Coins acquired.]


    My EXP rose until I was on the verge of hitting level 9. In the Tutorial Arena, the max level was 10.


    Soon, Ill be level 9.


    I decided to stop hunting now. After all, my objective was the D-Tower. More specifically, the 1st floor of the D-Tower. If I could clear that floor well, I would gain a ton of bonuses and pretty much be the face of yers worldwide.


    If I can just do that part well


    Earning $1 million afterwards would be no problem, even if I were an early bloomer. Sunhwa and I arrived at the D-Tower. There were multiple entrances.


    This one.


    I chose the one without monsters. I heard a notice.


    [The necessary level to enter the Tutorial Dungeon, D-Tower, is 5.]


    [Will you enter the Tutorial Dungeon, D-Tower?]


    YES.


    I selected yes. The revolving door began to slowly move, as if inviting me toe inside. Sunhwa clutched a part of my clothes behind me, a little scared.


    You remember what we have to do when were inside, right?


    Yes.


    Sunhwas voice trembled a little. I knew that, but I didnt show it on my face, because although Sunhwa wasnt trying to act spoiled, I had no intention of humoring her, even if she was. For a brief moment, I checked my stats.


    [Status Window]


    Name: Kim Hyukjin (yer)


    Level: 8


    Title:


    Strength: 14Intelligence: 14


    Agility: 14Perception: 14


    Constitution: 14Willpower: 13 (+30)


    Bonus stats: 0


    Random stats: 4


    Undistributed stats: 4


    ording to the Rankers, it was best to raise your stats evenly in the beginning. That was the established theory.


    Are these really the stats of a level 8?


    It waspletely different from other level 8s in my memory. It gave me confidence.


    Lets go.


    I went ahead first. The half-transparent Senia followed me.[The Nameless Observer is observing you with interest.]


    Carelessness is death.


    This was undoubtedly a dangerous ce for someone at my level, a ce that could be ones grave if they entered without knowing the strategy, and in just one hit. I reviewed the strategy one more time in my head. And then, I entered the Tutorial Dungeon.[You have entered the Tutorial Dungeon, D-Tower.]

 Chapter 8: D-Tower 1st Floor

    Chapter 8: D-Tower 1st Floor


    On the 1st floor of the D-Tower, I could see the esctor going to the second floor and a few City Foxes and Goblins nearby. It might be a Tutorial, but a dungeon was a dungeon.


    Theyll be at least one level higher than the monsters outside.


    Sure enough:City Fox LVL 4


    The City Foxes and Goblins were 1-2 levels higher. Some were even 3 levels higher.


    Goblin LVL 8


    Like I had arranged in advance, I disbanded the party with Sunhwa. In other words, we werent sharing EXP.


    Start with all the Goblins you can see.


    If you didnt touch the foxes, they wouldnt turn hostile. In higher level dungeons, all the monsters were hostile. But this was the Tutorial Dungeon. This Tutorial might not seem like a tutorial at all, but there was no denying it was easier than a higher level dungeon.


    Sunhwa did way better than I expected.


    As expected must be the effect of the talent.


    There was a time when she was scared shitless by a baby Goblin, but after just four days together, Sunhwa was hunting adult Goblins just fine.


    Shes killing them well, even though shes only level 6.


    A level 6 yer was making quick work of a level 8 Goblin. This had to be the effect of talent.


    Take a break after taking care of that Goblin.


    Got it.


    Sunhwa got rid of thest remaining Goblin. For reference, the item she had equipped was Worn Iron Gauntlets. Sunhwa clobbered the Goblin with her fists, all while precisely striking the weak point Id told her about.


    Shes doing really well.


    The Goblins attacks didnt register on Sunhwa at all, almost as if she had some kind of special skill or special constitution.


    Turning to me, she asked, Did I do well?


    Nope. Did you think so?


    Sunhwa shook her head. I think Im way worsepared to you, oppa.


    Huh. Actually, thats true, isnt it?


    To be honest, the ying of this child I considered a genius didnt look all that impressive to me. Was it because she was young or because I was underestimating her?


    But why am <i>I </i>so good at this?


    I didnt know why. In any case, there was no mistakeso far, I was ying even better than Sunhwa. So much so that I had the very rational question of Am I a genius?


    The miniboss will spawn soon.


    Yes.


    The miniboss, the Goblin Soldier, would soon appear. The Goblin Soldiers level would be disyed as ?, as it would be a much higher level than me. The estimated level was roughly 13. Mine was currently 8.


    I can do this.


    That was already proven through countless clears. I had seen the VR dungeon y many times. Of course, that was an artificial VR dungeon based on the recollections of the Fist King So Yoohyun and other survivors, but clearing the 1st floor <i>was </i>possible from level 8.


    No, you <i>have </i>to be level 8 for it to be possible.


    After hunting all of the Goblins and City Foxes here, the miniboss, the Goblin Soldier, would spawn.


    Good to go again, right?


    Yes. I think Ive recovered my stamina as well.


    Then catch the rest of them.


    When the rest were killed, the Goblin Soldier would appear, and we would form the party again before that.


    Run back here right away afterwards.


    Here, near the ATM. I reminded her again.


    Got it.


    Sunhwa carried out my orders to a T. She killed the rest of the monsters, and in doing so, she hit level 7.


    Oppa, I got them all.


    I know. Run back here.


    Sunhwa ran over, and the two of us hid ourselves behind the ATM on the 1st floor. We were squeezed in together as much as possible. It was a good thing Sunhwa had a small build.


    I said quietly, Lower your head.


    Just then, the entirety of the field momentarily turned grey, almost like someone had pressed the pause button in a game.


    * * *


    Isnt this a Pause?


    Intermediate Administrators could briefly suspend a field with their individual authorities or with an item.


    But this item costs a pretty penny.


    I didnt know exactly how much, but I heard you had to invest quite a lot of Coins in it. It was a kind of power used by Streamers when they wanted to interfere with a yer, during which the video transmission to the Guardians was turned off.


    [A Pause has taken effect.]


    [The Nameless Observer expresses intense curiosity.]


    [The Courageous Lion King has begun to take an interest again.]


    [Anonymous Guardians have begun to mor.]


    yer Kim Hyukjin. Are you in your right mind?


    What do you mean?


    Senia stared at me expressionlessly. Her eyescked emotion, but they were rather intense.


    You have acted as if you know everything. Is this situation also one that you have intended?


    Yeah.


    I dont know what kind of ability you have, but if you have such a power, why in the world are you doing such a foolish thing?


    Again, what do you mean?


    After staring at me for a moment, Senia slowly continued. The Goblin Soldier is level 13. Its also receiving a boss monster stat buff. It is not a creature you can defeat right now. Much less with only two people.


    What the heck? Was this woman always so talkative?


    So youre saying you would rather not see me die, hm?


    The reason was obvious.


    Because Im a yer who can provide the material to create a hit.


    It was because I made good quality content. If I had to guess, I had to be the person carrying out the most unique ying out of the countless yers out there, unless there was another regressor who had memorized every y by heart like I had.


    A yer like me was material, <i>content</i>, that a Streamer would be hard-pressed to find again.


    By the way, Senia. Your way of talking is insufferable.


    Are you insulting me?


    Let me give you a tip.


    I knew about the Streamers of the future. I knew about many Intermediate Administrators, as well as many Streamers on Youtube. I knew how they ticked, and even had a rough understanding of how to be a famous Streamer. An expressionless Streamer who spoke with this little eloquence and only had looks going for her wouldnt be able to survive the fiercepetition.


    When the pause ends, make a big fuss. No, wait. Making a fuss would be difficult with your personality. Just exin that its a monster I could never possibly catch. Thats the truth, after all.


    This was going slightly off-topic, but Senia was truly beautiful. So beautiful, in fact, that the thought periodically invaded my mind despite not being the time or ce.


    If she wasnt able to be famouster despite being this beautiful


    It meant she had been eliminated, unable to survive thepetition between the Streamers.


    Do some directing.


    Senia continued to stare at me with the same expressionless face as before. She didnt respond, but seeing as her wingtips were trembling, it did seem that my words had caused a ripple in her heart.


    Then, Ill sessfully kill the monster without dying.


    You will kill the Goblin Soldier?


    Yeah. The Goblin Soldier.


    You are incapable of doing so. It is impossible.


    So watch. Watch how I kill it. Isnt it some great hit material? A real scrub of a yer destroying a frickin Tutorial Dungeon miniboss.


    The more Guardians watching, the better. Famous Streamers were sure to attract famous Guardians, because such Guardians were unstinting in their support to Streamers and yers.


    Make a deal with me.


    Before I could say anything, Senia quickly interjected. yer Kim Hyukjin. Your impudence has gone too far. You are level 8. There is a limit to how much disrespect I can tolerate.


    As expected, an Intermediate Administrator was an Intermediate Administrator, through and through. She was someone who could kill me anytime for any offense. Unless it was rted to the Commandments, it was no big issue for an Administrator to kill me. She could have probably split my body into two with a single lift of her finger.


    I said, If you had wanted to kill me, you would have done so already.


    But you even used your Pause power to stop me, didnt you? Could you really bear to kill me? Isnt that power very expensive?


    Senias wingtips trembled once again. I was sure of it. This woman might be a skilled Administrator, but she was an inept talker. She must have been eliminated from the Streamerpetition because she was so inarticte and only had a pretty face.


    I, a level 8 yer with no real skills, will defeat the miniboss. The Guardians might even strip naked in utter excitement. And you could instantly be an Administrator producing quality content.


    Its not a loss for you, am I right?


    In the end, Senia asked, What are your trade conditions?


    For now, what do you think about discussing it after I kill the miniboss? I think the pause time is almost over.


    For the first time since meeting me, Senia betrayed a small frown on her face. For the first time since meeting me, there was a change in her expression. It was as if she were asking, How in the world do you know all of this? Naturally, I wouldnt answer her question, and there was no need to do so.


    I understand. I will watch. Keep this in mind. The Goblin Soldier is something you could never defeat with your current power.


    At that instant, the Pause ended. The monochrome world returned to normal, the momentarily paused time beginning to tick once more.


    [All of the fields monsters have been eliminated.]


    [The conditions to spawn the miniboss Goblin Soldier have been fulfilled.]


    [The miniboss Goblin Soldier is spawning.]


    Itsing.


    Currently, I was next to the ATM, crouching there with Sunhwa halfway in my arms. Cold sweat ran down my back. I spoke confidently to Senia, but couldnt help but be nervous.


    [The Goblin Soldier has spawned.]


    [A miniboss zone has been dered.]


    The miniboss, the Goblin Soldier, appeared. Soon, it would look around, seeing corpses in the vicinity.


    Itll be enraged.


    And I was right.[The miniboss Goblin Soldier expresses its rage.]


    And then, the enraged Goblin Soldier would use its most threatening attack as soon as it appeared. Spear Throwits most dangerous ability. That was an attack I couldnt take on with my current abilities, an attack that would instantly kill me if it hit me full-on.


    <i>Kikikik!</i>


    The Goblin Soldiers scream made a shiver run down my spine.


    <i>Schwip!</i>


    There was a whistle in the air. It was hard to put it in words, but it felt like something terrifying was approaching.


    Itsing.


    A <i>thud!</i> rang out as the Goblin Soldiers spear punched through the ATM. Something sharp was protruding a bit a little above where I was crouching.


    <i>Drip.</i>


    Sweat ran down my brow. Id only seen the clears; doing it in person was incredibly spine-tingling.


    First hurdle, done.


    The Goblin Soldiers most threatening attack was neutralized. The very moment it appeared, it would fiercely hurl a spear towards the yers. This attack was the most terrifying one, which was why we hid, using the ATM as a shield.


    [The Nameless Observer is astonished by your wits.]


    [Anonymous Guardians are tuning into Channel #19207 in great numbers.]


    [The Nameless Guardian has sent you a 50 Coin sponsorship.]


    I wasnt able to pay attention to the notices. Hiding next to the ATM was the most effective move in the clears.


    If a yer moved elsewhere, the Goblin Soldier would move as well,ing closer and then throwing its spear.


    This is the perfect distance for making that bastard throw its spear without moving.


    The ce that could also provide cover at the same time was next to the ATM. This hunting spot, determined to be the optimum location through VR dungeons, was the perfect ce for blocking the most dangerous attack.


    I snuck a nce at the half-transparent Senia.


    Watch carefully.


    Watch how a lousy level 8 yer kills a miniboss monster.

 Chapter 9: D-Tower 1st Floor (2)

    Chapter 9: D-Tower 1st Floor (2)


    Kang Sunhwa trembled like a leaf.


    I-It went through the ATM.


    The spear stuck out from the ATM. What would have happened if she had taken such a hit face-on?


    I-I would have been skewered.


    She might have died in an instant.


    How is he nning on catching such a monster?


    She was scared. She wanted to turn and flee, right now. She wanted to cry, but she resisted.


    I have to be helpful.


    Otherwise, she could be abandoned, and she didnt want that.


    <i>Ill be back after just 100 days and nights. Promise. Youll be good, wont you, my daughter?</i>


    Her mom abandoned her with those words. After 100 days passed, 200, even 300, her mom didnte back. When Sunhwa turned ten, she realized then that she had been abandoned. She was abandoned by her mom and grew up in the orphanage. That feeling She hated and feared it so much. Even more than the Goblin Soldier.


    She reviewed each and every thing Kim Hyukjin had said, balling her fists.


    I can do this!


    Sunhwa jumped out from behind the ATM.


    Just like what oppa said.


    Like Kim Hyukjin said, the monsters in the vicinity had been revived.


    Taunt![Using the skill Taunt.]


    Sunhwa used her skill, Taunt, and !!! marks appeared over the heads of the City Foxes and Goblins that had been revived with the appearance of the miniboss monster. It was an indication that she had properly drawn their aggro.


    I have to do well.


    Some distance away, she saw a Goblin around 180 centimetres in size, far bigger and bulkier in appearance than regr Goblins.


    Because oppa is facing that monster.


    The monsters rushed in. But she wasnt scared. She already knew from experience that even if they bit, attacked, and struck her, it wouldnt hurt.


    Putting as little force as possible in her fists, she hit the Goblins and City Foxes.


    Thats enough. I have to stop here.


    The HP of the monsters had been reduced to around 10%. Keeping them at that level, Sunhwa waited, periodically using Taunt to keep that !!! over their heads. Surrounded by monsters, Sunhwa stared at Kim Hyukjin. He was panting hard, looking exhausted to the point of copsing at any moment.


    Please!


    Sunhwa put her hands together and prayed. She prayed they would be able to survive.


    * * *


    Kim Hyukjin caught his breath, thinking, The feeling of pressure is insane.


    It was bigger than an average adult man. With a little exaggeration, even the muscles were like Hulks. It was nothingpared to the monster on the 2nd Floor, but right now, it looked extremely imposing to him. He thought he had grown rather used to that existence called a monster, but this monster overturned those thoughts. It was getting a miniboss stat buff, but still, he was floored by the power of a level 13 monster. He couldnt even imagine how intimidating high level bosses would be.


    The thing I have to watch out for is that spear attack.


    It wasnt a high level monster. It was different from a regr level 13 because of the inherent boss mob stat buff, but it still had a very simple attack pattern. A stabbing attack, and a swing from top to bottom. Those were the only two attacks.


    The Goblin Soldier quickly closed in on Hyukjin.


    Here ites!


    Hyukjin gripped the Rusted Iron Sword.


    Will he stab, or will he swing? He raised his focus to the max. Its a swing.


    He saw it. He saw that the Goblin Soldier was preparing to swing its spear from top to bottom. He evaded slightly to the side, rushing towards the Goblin and swinging the Rusted Iron Sword at the same time.


    He sliced at the Goblin Soldiers side. But because his attack power was too low, he wasnt able to deal an effective blow. It only served to enrage the Goblin Soldier.


    <i>Kikikikik!</i>


    Making a sound far louder than a regr Goblin, the miniboss swung its spear down on Hyukjin, at a speed that looked extremely fast in Hyukjins eyes. It was fast, but not unexpected.


    Kim Hyukjin swung his iron sword to deftly parry the Goblin Soldiers strike.


    The half-transparent Senia focused on that scene. She could see the Guardians making a huge fuss.[Anonymous Guardians are joining Channel #19207 inrge numbers.]


    Senia almost smiled for the first time ever. They didnt reveal their True Names, but the Guardians joined her channel all the same. Her boring, unpopr channel. However, she did not smile. Ever since she was a child, she had been taught that the act of showing ones emotions was vulgar. She did be an Intermediate Administrator, but she jumped into this job determined not to be vulgar.


    Various anonymous Guardians peppered her with questions.


    Are you sure hes really level 8?


    A level 8 yer is truly raiding the Tutorial Dungeons miniboss?


    Senia nodded to show her assent. It was true. He avoided the Initial Strike that would cause certain death to a level 8 yer by cleverly using some cover and was fighting the Goblin Soldier. It was unbelievable, but that was the truth. She had never seen a yer like him in any dimension before, at least not in the Tutorial.


    She wondered what kind of stats he must have to be able to execute such movements. The anonymous Guardians, aka the rabble, were moring in disbelief.


    Those arent the movements of a level 8 though?


    How can a level 8 move in that manner?


    He didnt lie about his level?


    The rabble fussed to their content, and the Guardians who had revealed their True Names were keeping an eye on the situation, their eyes glued to the level 8 yers incredible ying. Senia was the same. At this point, even Senia was curious.


    Yet another yer without much presence caught her eyes. Her name was Kang Sunhwa, an Awakened of the tanker ss. She stood still, surrounded by monsters.


    Just then, Kim Hyukjin yelled, looking so incredibly exhausted it seemed he could faint at any moment.


    Now! Kill them!


    Senia instantly realized what Kim Hyukjin was trying to do. Sunhwa killed the City Foxes.


    [EXP acquired.]


    [7 Coins acquired.]


    As someone in the same party as Kang Sunhwa, Kim Hyukjins level went up.


    [Level increased.]


    [Current level: 9]


    With the level up, his condition recovered. Hyukjin felt refreshed. Moments ago, he was gasping for breath and felt like he could drop dead from exhaustion, but now, he was fine. He purposely timed and nned his EXP like this, so he could level up when needed.


    Take the monsters and get some distance between us. The monsters will keep reviving, so kill as many as you can, until I give you the signal to stop.


    * * *


    After saying that, I engaged with the Goblin Soldier again. Now level 9, I was a little stronger, and a little more used to the Goblin Soldier. Our battle went on for a long thirty minutes. I stuck to the Goblin Soldier like a burr, avoiding critical injuries and asionally attacking. Time and time again, I aimed for the nape, themon weakness of all Goblins.[The Rusted Iron Swords durability is decreasing.]


    Meanwhile, Sunhwa continuously killed monsters.


    [Goblin has been killed.]


    [City Fox has been killed.]


    [Goblin has been killed.]


    [City Fox has been killed.]


    We were in the same party, so my EXP continuously rose as well. I managed my stamina, constantly checking my EXP bar.


    Soon Ill get another level up.


    <i>Kikik! Kikikikikik!</i>


    Enraged by the annoyance before it, the Goblin Soldier once again swung its spear from top to bottom.


    I finished my instantaneous calction.


    Ill let that one hit me.


    I decided to sacrifice my left shoulder. I would use my shoulder to aim for the miniboss throat, all for the chance of inflicting a deeper blow.


    Argh!


    The spear plunged into my shoulder. A shoulder-rending agony assailed me, but I held on.


    And strike.


    I timed it to the millisecond. For that moment, and that moment alone, I forgot I was someone judged to have [No Talent]. It felt as if everything were clear in my eyes, and my entire being was focused on this situation alone.


    With exactly the right timing, I surged towards the Goblin Soldier. Right at the moment Sunhwa killed a City Fox.


    [Level increased.]


    [Current level: 10]


    The pain disappeared, and my body returned to normal. I was aiming for this moment. Vigor circted throughout my entire body as I jabbed the Rusted Iron Sword at the Goblin Soldiers neck before immediately getting behind it.


    I can see it!


    I saw the weak spot on the back of the neck, a ck dot. That dot seemedrge in my eyes.


    Ahhhhhh!


    I thrust the Rusted Iron Sword in with all my strength.


    Is it over?


    At that moment:[The Rusted Iron Sword has been destroyed.]


    It had reached the end of its durability. As the sword was destroyed, the Goblin Soldiers body began to tip forward.


    Its over.


    I finally killed it. The miniboss, the Goblin Soldier.


    [You have killed the miniboss monster Goblin Soldier.]


    [Congrattions.]


    [You are the first to have hunted a miniboss monster.]


    Countless notices flooded in.


    [EXP acquired.]


    [The level cap of the Tutorial Field is 10.]


    [The minimum number of people required for the Tutorial Dungeon miniboss monster raid has been set to 5.]


    [The system has recognized your raid as a Solo y.]


    [The Tutorial Fields level cap has been lifted.]


    And then:


    [Leveling up is possible.]


    [Current level: 10]


    [A Hidden Piece qualification condition has been fulfilled.]


    I was instantly stunned into speechlessness.


    I can level up?


    The Tutorial Field was capped at level 10. But that level restriction was lifted, and I even fulfilled a Hidden Piece qualification condition. I didnt know what was going on.


    That wasnt all. Senia swiftly snagged the body of the Goblin Soldier, and a yellow light radiated from the Goblin Soldiers body before disappearing. Then, she approached me and handed something to me.


    This is the reward item for hunting the miniboss.[Iron Sword acquired as a reward.]


    I was given an Iron Sword to rece the Rusted Iron Sword. It had twice the attack power.


    A sound rang in my head.[The Intermediate Administrator Senia has requested a private chat. Will you ept? Y/N]


    Senia seemed rather surprised, too, seeing as she tantly asked for a private chat. This conversation wouldnt be heard by the Guardians. Sunhwa wouldnt hear it, either. It was a conversation between yer and Intermediate Administrator, just the two of us.


    ept.


    Senia asked me a question expressionlessly.


    Did you hunt the miniboss by timing the level up precisely? All while managing your stamina?


    I told you I would show you. Id show you me killing the miniboss.


    It was not a y that someone of your level could show. Do you have a True Name?


    A True Name? What in the world was that? I certainly didnt have anything like that. All I knew was the strategy from the future. However, I didnt go out of my way to correct her misunderstanding. Even though I didnt know what a True Name was, there was no big need for me to correct her.


    Dont forget that you agreed to make a deal with me.


    Was it talent? Was it luck? Or was it something else? I thought I could hear Senias voice, but then the private chat ended.[The Nameless Observer is awed by your shocking ability to concentrate.]


    The level 10 cap has been lifted from the Tutorial Field. I also got a new item and even drew admiration from a Guardian.


    Did I really have [No Talent]? I realized while fighting the Goblin Soldier, but there was no way I was talentless. On the contrary, my talent was immense. I didnt know what my limits were, but for now, ording to what I knew, I had a level of talent unprecedented in the history of the past. It was a bit embarrassing for me to say it, but I ended up wondering if this level of talent was close to transcendent.


    I even got a sponsorship.


    I didnt notice it before, because I was focusing so intensely, but I had received a sponsorship. It was probably an unprecedented record in the Tutorial Field.


    It was a very, no, <i>incredibly</i>, smooth start. Under the assumption that I didnt go up to Floor 2, at least.


    However, the notices didnt stop there.[The Lady of the Scales has begun to watch you with interest.]


    What?


    I flinched.

 Chapter 10: The Tutorials Hidden Piece

    Chapter 10: The Tutorial''s Hidden Piece


    [The Lady of the Scales has begun to watch you with interest.]


    I flinched.


    The Lady of the Scales?


    Her name alone wasnt all that impressive. But I was already well-aware of what kind of Guardian the Lady of the Scales was.


    Shes the Guardian of the Typhoon, Jo Sunghyun.


    He was one of the 8 yers who represented Korea, and she was a Guardian who prioritized fairness above all and liked yers capable of doing acts of good.


    Her personality is close towful good.


    Unlike the Courageous Lion King, who could care less about whether his sponsored yers died or not, the Lady of the Scales was a stern upholder of justice and prioritized the wellbeing of her yers.


    She also gives appropriatepensation, and is one of the Guardians who gives extremely reliable support.


    That the Lady of the Scales had me in her sights was nothing but weed news.


    Fairness, justice, sacrifice, andmitment. The Lady of the Scales is a Guardian who reacts primarily to such things.


    I nced at Sunhwa behind me. It wasmonly said that the Guardians were looking down from above.


    From up there, it must have looked like I was protecting Sunhwa.


    That was my best guess. In any case, it was good. Someone who was told they had [No Talent] like me already had the interest of three Guardians, and the fact I had secured myself a special privilege meant I had made huge strides.


    Oppa, what do we do now?


    My previous ns changed a little.


    Originally we were going to leave and hide in the nearby Safety Zone, waiting for the Fist King So Yoohyun toe and kill that thing on the 2nd floor, but


    After killing the Goblin Soldier on the 1st floor,rge-scale onughts like the Goblin attack would end. That meant safety would be pretty much guaranteed afterwards. Thats why I rushed to kill the Goblin Soldier.


    For now, were safe.


    If I killed <i>that guy</i> on the 2nd floor of the D-Tower, I would get the title of Tutorial Ender, but I didnt hope for that much.


    Lets make full use of the Tutorial Fields special characteristics.


    I zeroed in on my goal, a goal right in front of my eyes. I would earn $1 million.


    And then


    To be honest, I wanted to look further ahead. Like anyone else, I wanted to seed and live well. I wanted to live happily with my family and do everything I wanted. It was too early to jump to conclusions, but currently, I suspected that my talent was very nearly transcendent. And I didnt want to let a talent like this go to waste. I no longer wanted to be a burden on my family and study for ages to be a civil servant.


    Turning to Sunhwa, I said, Were going to go hunt the monsters outside the D-Tower. As many as we can.


    The City Foxes?


    No.


    If we went a bit towards the Cheonggyecheon district, we would run into City Wolves instead of City Foxes. They were pack monsters that were far more ferocious. Even so, they were only slightly higher in level than Goblins.


    Their levels are around 7. They sometimes have alphas, and those guys are around level 9. The two of us can hunt them no problem.


    Where did you learn that?


    I know everything.


    I knew it.


    Sunhwa didnt harbor any suspicion. Her eyes showed absolute trust in me.


    I purposefully didnt continue to press Senia about the deal. She hadnt mentioned it. I gave a thin smile.


    Alright then, lets dance. Push and pull.


    In this dance of pushing and pulling, it wasnt a bad thing to see who would end up on topthe Streamer who had absolutely nothing going for her besides her appearance vs. the regressor whose future was shining brightly? It was painfully obvious who had the upper hand, so I wasnt in a rush.


    The person who gets impatient first loses.


    * * *


    Sunhwa was a truly talented tanker.City Wolf. LVL 8


    Awoooooooo!


    The City Wolves called theirrades.


    Taunt!


    Not a single wolf slipped past, all of them charging straight for Sunhwa, and in the meantime, I defeated the wolves from behind. After a few fights, it seemed that club-type weapons were more effective than ded ones, so I hunted them using the Wooden Club that dropped from the wolves.


    [EXP acquired.]


    [8 Coins acquired.]


    After hunting for about one hour, we rested in a nearby convenience store before continuing.


    [Level increased.]


    [Current level: 11]


    Finally, my level went up.


    I really did be level 11.


    I broke the level cap of 10. That it was at all possible to reach level 11 in the Tutorial Field was something that even I, a rote memorizer of the Ten Years History, hadnt known at all. I guessed even the Fist King So Yoohyun didnt know it.


    The notices continued.


    [Congrattions!]


    [You are the first to have reached level 11.]


    [Your achievement has been recognized.]


    [You have been granted the title The First Pioneer.]


    I could only doubt my ears.


    A title?


    There were titles in the System. The abilities of yers could vary immensely due to titles. It could be called a benefit that bestowed special parameters.


    Theres a title in the Tutorial Field? Other than Tutorial Ender?


    Id never heard or seen of such a thing. A title could only be gained at around level 30, and even then it wasnt guaranteed. I killed the Tutorial Fields miniboss monster, the Goblin Soldier, and still didnt get a title. So I was stunned I got a title just by reaching level 11.


    Did you get a title?


    God, she scared me. Senia suddenly appeared behind me. Though her face was expressionless, the tips of her wings were trembling. The Guardians might even be moring Tell us what kind of title he got! Find that out!


    I did get a title.


    What kind of title?


    Senia asked with an impressive nonchnce, but her expression was extremely stiff. Shed always had an expressionless face, but right now, it was looking kind of robotic.


    Not telling.


    If the yer didnt want to disclose, they had no obligation to. Titles couldnt even be scanned. I decided to check it out first.


    [The First Pioneer]


    A glorious title given to one who pioneered a new domain.<ol><li aria-level="1">EXP +20%</li><li aria-level="1">Stacks with other titles.</li></ol>


    Sunhwa tugged on my clothes.


    Oppa? Are you alright?


    Its nothing.


    I had fallen into a daze without realizing it.


    [The Nameless Observer is terribly curious about your reward.]


    [The Lady of the Scales is curious about your reward.]


    It looked like the Guardians had no idea what I had just received. There was no need to expose everything to the Guardians. I had to hide an appropriate amount, choosing and picking what I would reveal.


    I cant believe its a 20% buff to EXP.


    A boost that big made it a title of the highest level. In particr, an experience buff in the beginning would have a huge butterfly effect that would aid meter, because it would help me get firsts in everything.


    If I can keep developing like this


    I could really be a Ranker. Wealth. Glory. Power. All of those things could be mine. And even if it wasnt as grand as those things, I could definitely seed enough to feed and clothe my family very well.


    No.


    Before, in order to seed, the only option was to study like all the others to be a civil servant. But now, it was different. I could forge a different path from the past.


    I said to Sunhwa, Lets keep hunting. Well level up for another two days or so.


    * * *


    Hiya!


    Yoohyun punched.


    <i>Arf!</i>


    The City Wolf yelped.


    [Level increased.]


    [Current level: 8]


    Yoohyun rubbed his nose. The people behind him cheered.


    In one hit again?


    What is he, One Punch Man?


    Even a level 8 monster is no big deal, huh?


    The City Wolves were wolves in name, but they seemed weaker than stray mutts. So Yoohyun had realized many things over thest five days. He leveled up faster than others. He was stronger than others. He didnt know why, but it was true.


    There were hardly any monsters that could survive his one and only skill, Power Fist. As a result, quite a lot of people trailed behind So Yoohyun. Those people thought theyd grabbed a real lifeline. Roughly ten people were following him.


    Youre indeed incredible.


    Do you think so?


    Of course. So Yoohyun is the strongest on the Tutorial Field, no?


    Pshaw. Im not that great.


    Everyone could see it. Even though he was saying not at all! and acting humble, So Yoohyuns earlobes were a bit red. He was definitely a bit embarrassed right now. At first sight, he looked like a regr ol moron, but his body was quivering with muscles that were anything but ordinary. However, at that moment, So Yoohyun saw someone in the distance.


    Huh?


    In the vicinity of Cheonggyecheon, where they were, he saw another team hunting City Wolves, made up of a young man and girl. The child was taking the tanker role, while the man was handling the DPS.


    There are more survivors!


    So Yoohyun swiftly strode that way.


    Hello!


    Having just finished hunting the City Wolves, Kim Hyukjin stared at So Yoohyun. He was able to recognize the man instantly.


    The Fist King.


    It was the Fist King So Yoohyun. Hyukjin was meeting him in person. Many people were following So Yoohyunit seemed he had rescued them all, unlike Hyukjin, who had turned away many people.


    I cant believe Im seeing the Fist King in person.


    He was one of the eight most famous yers in Korea. He looked to be about 190 centimetres tall and had a very bulky physique, but his eyes looked very honest and simple. The dark circles under his eyes gave him a big panda image.


    After a short conversation, So Yoohyun made a proposal.


    Would you like to work with us? Survivors should clump together, right? What do you think?


    Kim Hyukjin looked So Yoohyun straight in the eyes.


    If everything goes the way I saw in the past


    All of the people behind him would die. The only person who survived hunting <i>that thing</i> on the 2nd floor of Gwanghwamun D-Tower was So Yoohyun. ording to So Yoohyuns reminiscing, he said the thing he regretted most was taking those people to the 2nd floor of D-Tower.


    No thanks.


    Hyukjin refused So Yoohyuns offer. He had no intention of hunting <i>that thing</i>. It was far more dangerous than the Goblin Soldier, and there was a high chance he would die. This was such a rare chance. He couldnt let it go to waste in vain.


    Continuing, Hyukjin said, I heard the Tutorial Field will end after surviving for seven days.


    His #1 goal was to earn $1 million, and for that reason, he had to survive the Tutorial Field. There was no need to face excessive danger in order to defeat the Tutorial Fields boss monster. The moment he killed the Goblin Soldier, the attacks or waves ceased for good, which meant there was absolutely no need to flirt with death.


    Mm. No helping it then, said So Yoohyun.


    Yoohyun didnt dwell on it or insist. His personality had always been like that. No matter what happened, he simply epted it for what it was. However, the people following him thought that Kim Hyukjin was a little rude.


    He must not know So Yoohyuns strength yet


    Tsk, tsk. He just kicked away a good offer with his own two feet.


    It looked like the pair was pretty skilled themselves, but they didnt think they had anything on So Yoohyun, who had the power to kill a City Wolf in one hit.


    Cant be helped. Hes simply throwing away his own fortune.


    They didnt openly show their difort on their faces, but it was palpable to Kim Hyukjin. He said, Survive. I wish you good fortune. If you meet a truly powerful monster and are in a truly hopeless situation Aim for the left eye.


    So Yoohyun would walk his path, and he would walk his. He just had to think about how to get out of here in one piece. History would continue on its path. And within that prescribed path, Kim Hyukjin would secure as much profit as he could.


    He continued to hunt wolf packs.


    [Mutant Wolfs Fang acquired.]


    [Level increased.]


    [Current level: 12]


    With the First Pioneer title EXP buff in addition to his original leveling speed, he leveled up much faster than expected. Even though he was killing City Wolves that were rtively weak, his EXP was going up nicely. As time went on, he learned some tricks to hunting and was able to hunt faster than the wolves respawned.


    Weve caught all the wolves in this area.


    The wolves had run dry. But just then, he heard a notice.


    [You have hunted 500 City Wolves.]


    [Checking the Hidden Piece conditions.]


    [A Hidden Piece qualification condition has been fulfilled.]


    A Hidden Piece qualification condition? That was the same notice I heard on the 1st floor of the D-Tower. Isnt that the notice I heard after killing the Goblin Soldier?


    He didnt know what it was back then, but it was written here.[You have fulfilled all three conditions, Hidden Piece qualification condition, break through level cap, & hunt 500 City Wolves.]


    Kim Hyukjin achieved three conditions no one had achieved before.[The conditions for the Hidden Piece have been fulfilled.]


    Notices that had never existed in the past continued to ring out.

 Chapter 11: The Tutorials Hidden Piece (2)

    Chapter 11: The Tutorial''s Hidden Piece (2)[You have fulfilled the conditions for the Hidden Piece.]


    Was there always a Hidden Piece in the Tutorial Field? Not that I was aware of. Even the man who had taken the lead in clearing the Tutorial Field, So Yoohyun, hadnt said anything about a Hidden Piece, nor had any other survivor. In other words, I was the first person to discover it.


    Its not necessarily something to be happy about.


    The Hidden Piece reward was sure to be big. But it came with just as much liability for risk. Moreover, this Hidden Piece wasnt something I knew about, so it was an unknown risk.


    The notices continued.[The King of the Wolves, a Lycanthrope, has appeared.]


    What?


    I urgently yanked Sunhwas hand.


    Sunhwa. Run!


    What?


    Sunhwa was taken aback, but she nodded, starting to run, as if determined not to lose track of me.[The King of the Wolves, a Lycanthrope, is enraged.]


    The bodies of City Wolves were littered all around it. That was probably the reason for the Lycanthropes rage.


    Why is a Lycanthrope showing up in a Tutorial Field?!


    The Lycanthrope, simply put, was a humanoid wolf that ran around on two feet. Its level was normally around the 20~25 range. It wasnt a monster that should appear in the Tutorial. In terms of just physical ability, it was toe-to-toe with the monster on the 2nd floor of the D-Tower. Actually, just looking at the attack power, there was a chance it was even more powerful than <i>him.</i>


    Dammit.


    With just Sunhwa and I, we couldnt defeat the Lycanthrope.


    Sunhwa. You hide behind that car over there.


    What about you?


    Hurry!


    I pushed Sunhwa away, eyeing the distance. Whether it was survival instinct or a rational thought process doing whatever it had to do to survive, I couldnt say. I finished making my decision.


    Its all or nothing.


    The Lycanthrope was fast.


    In any case, I cant run.


    The Lycanthrope was already looking this way, meaning it had already targeted us. Even if I ran with all my might, I would probably be caught in five seconds. Hiding behind the car I pointed out, Sunhwa trembled.


    Sunhwa wont be able to defend herself from the attack of an animal-type monster over level 20 yet.


    The Lycanthropes teeth and ws were sharp, iparable to the knives of a baby Goblin. I took a deep breath.


    [Your heartbeat is rising excessively.]


    [Calm Observers Eye is taking effect.]


    Calm Observers Eye kicked in as usual.


    Control the mind.


    Stay calm, I urged myself. I took in another big breath, then used one of the items in my Inventory.


    [High Strength Elixir]


    The Courageous Lion Kings gift. An Open Beta Bonus, it will take effect for ten minutes.


    Temporarily increases Strength by 6.


    The effect of the High Strength Elixir was like 3 level ups.


    Come at me, you shitty dog!


    I couldnt defeat it with the High Strength Elixir alone. I was well aware of that, but it wasnt as if the situation waspletely hopeless.


    * * *


    A distance away, Kang Sunhwa could only watch the wolf-human through the car window in horror.


    Its so different.


    So much that it felt like a creature in apletely different dimension from all the other monsters she had seen so far.Lycanthrope LVL?


    She clearly saw red letters above the Lycanthropes head. Even its name looked extremely dangerous. It was like the System was screaming at her that he was a monster she couldnt yet face.


    Oppa!


    She didnt have a clue about what he was nning to do.


    I beg you. I beg you, God. Please, help us.


    Even though her mom had abandoned her and run away, Sunhwa still wanted to see her. She wanted to live.


    Ill be good. Ill study hard.


    But just then, she heard Kim Hyukjin yell something.


    Come at me, you shitty dog!


    It was as if the sky darkened. Whatever oppa was thinking, that shout at least seeded spectacrly in irritating the Lycanthrope more than any effect of Sunhwas Taunt skill could.


    Awoooooooo!


    The Lycanthrope howled.


    [Howl has taken physical effect.]


    [The abnormal status Paralyzation has taken effect.]


    Kang Sunhwa fell to her knees with a thump.


    She trembled, and her teeth ttered together,pletely at the mercy of the Lycanthropes howl. The Lycanthrope went from two legs to all four and began to run like a wolf.


    * * *


    Its too fast!


    The 2-meterrge, muscr monster sprang forward, instantaneously drawing near. I felt sweat run down my back.


    How can it be so fast despite being so big?


    I had seen it often on Youtube, but seeing it on the screen and experiencing it in person were two different things.


    I counted in my head.


    3.


    The Lycanthrope was right in front of me, just five meters away, a distance so short it could be traversed in the blink of an eye.


    2.


    The Lycanthropes golden eyes glowed brightly. They were the eyes of a predator eyeing its prey, and those glowing orbs were fixed directly on me.


    1.


    I clenched my fists hard.


    Now.


    The Lycanthrope jumped into the air. I instantly rolled forward, just one rotation. I only imagined the movement, but my body followed through more fluidly than expected.


    Meanwhile, the Lycanthrope was high in the air.


    Its first attack is always a jump.


    I made use of that habit. A few seconds was a short period, but I used every second.


    And then


    As if nning on making use of explosive strength, the Lycanthropes leg muscles expanded.


    I saw it all in my mind. The Lycanthrope would shoot forward towards me as soon as itnded.


    Now!


    I took out the item in my Inventory.


    Aim for where those feet shadows are forming.


    My eyes flicked towards that spot, every movement as natural as if I had experienced and learned all of this before. Then, I raised the reward I had coerced from Senia.


    [Quality Lubricant]


    Good quality lubrication oil. It can sharpen the de of an item with an edge, or be applied to a part that requires lubrication.


    I sshed the lubricant on the ground, and in the very next moment, the Lycanthropended.


    Now!


    I threw myself at the Lycanthrope, pushing the beast with all of my strength.


    <i>Sliiiide!</i>


    It slid backwards, losing its bnce, and fell into the Cheonggyecheon River.


    I-I did it!


    This was the Cheonggyecheon district.


    Hes in.


    And the Lycanthrope fell into the river flowing through it.


    <i>Aroo?</i>


    The Lycanthrope proceeded to produce sounds that didnt match its threatening aura, yelping like a drowning puppy.


    The Great Explorer Jackson said the following about this method: Any low-level yers who attempt this method might need to be prepared to lose their life. However, this is also the only method that would, if sessfully done, allow a low-level yer to kill a Lycanthrope.


    It really worked?


    The only method avable to me was to dunk the Lycanthrope into water. Method aside, I sessfully achieved that. It had only been made possible by the geographical location, Cheonggyecheon, the Quality Lubricant item, and perfect timing.


    I really did it.


    It was simply unbelievable. Even I, myself, was stunned. I carried it out on the small possibility it might work, but it actually did. In all actuality, a war between logic and instinct had raged within me just now. My logic said, Youll never win, but my instinct said, You can win.


    It was definitely dangerous, but


    Strangely enough


    It was easier than expected.


    If you broke it down, drowning the Lycanthrope was absolutely not easy to do. Everything had to line up perfectly in order for it to work. Even a well-trained yer would be hard-pressed to break the Lycanthropes bnce and push it into the river with such precise timing.


    The gap between my logic and instinct was simply too big. Strangely, it felt far too easypared to the difficulty.


    O-Oppa. Are you alright?


    Sunhwa approached me, looking down upon hearing the yelping from the water.


    I-Is that the Lycanthrope?


    Lycanthrope LVL?


    It was indeed the Lycanthrope, but it had be so much smaller, smaller than a City Wolf. It was like a puppy. I walked down the bank and killed the Lycanthrope as easily as if I were facing a City Wolf. Weakened and turned tiny by the water, the Lycanthrope was a breeze to kill, and I finished it off with his Iron Sword. It couldnt even move, much less resist.


    I really killed it.


    I killed a Lycanthrope, a monster over twice my level.


    I saw it.


    Everything had yed out before me, showing me exactly how I should move. It was as natural as if someone were showing me, as natural as breathing.


    After killing it, I was absolutely certain.


    Im sure of it. This is the influence of talent.


    Talent, that innate value that one was born with and could not be attained by any amount of effort. I had it, although I still couldnt rule out the possibility that I might be an early bloomer yer.


    In any case, I survived.


    I had certainly escaped the jaws of death. Sunhwa came closer and expressed her admiration.


    Oppa. You didnt do any kind of martial arts before, right?


    I hadnt had time for something like that.


    It was like a movie or something. How did you pull that off?


    Did I look a bit cool?


    Not just a bit, a lot cool.


    Sunhwa looked more excited than the person who dealt the finishing blow. She was like, You went whee and then kasham and then whoosh!


    This is reality.


    It wasnt a dream. I, an eternal civil servant student, killed a Lycanthrope. With my own two hands. My level instantly went up.


    [Lycanthrope has been killed.]


    [Level increased.]


    [30 Coins acquired.]


    [Current level: 13]


    A level up, already?


    It didnt end there.


    [Level increased.]


    [Current level: 14]


    [Level increased.]


    [Current level: 15]


    I went up a whopping three levels in one go.


    [You have sessfully hunted the Hidden Piece monster, Lycanthrope.]


    [You are bestowed the Hidden Piece reward, the Excellent Hunter title.]


    Even before Hyukjin could check his new title properly, yet another notice came in.[The Courageous Lion King snorts in disdain at your cowardly tricks.]


    That meant the jerk was still in Senias channel. Iughed inwardly. It looked like the Courageous Lion King was still gawking at me. However, the notices of other Guardians came in as well.


    [The Nameless Observer is shocked by yourbat sense.]


    [The Nameless Observer hopes to sponsor you.]


    [+1200 Coin]


    The Nameless Observer sent in 1200 Coins, and


    [The Lady of the Scales is in awe of your spirit of sacrifice.]


    [The Lady of the Scales hopes to sponsor you.]


    [+700 Coin]


    the Lady of the Scales sent in 700 Coins. By spirit of sacrifice, she probably was referring to how it ended up looking like I protected Sunhwa with my life on the line. It was a bit off the mark, but who cared? As long as the result was good, it was fine. In any case, I acquired 1,900 Coins in a matter of moments.


    1900 Coins!


    Currently, the Tutorial was still underway. Before the battle, I was only level 13 and had about 6,000 Coins. But with the gifts from the Guardians, I got a lump sum of 1,900 Coins in one fell swoop.


    Which means, my Coins amount to


    I booted up my Inventory Window and looked at the number at the very bottom.[Held Coins: 7,942]


    I had earned nearly 8,000 Coins, and all in the Tutorial. I was now level 15, with almost eight grand in Coins. I achieved something that no theory or strategy ten years in the future had ever imagined.


    Plus.


    That wasnt all. Something truly important was next.

 Chapter 12: D-Tower 2nd Floor

    Chapter 12: D-Tower 2nd Floor


    Level 15.


    From level 15 onwards, it was possible to use the Item Shop. Sure enough, I got a notice telling me that.


    [You can now use the Item Shop.]


    [The Item Shop is Tutorial-Grade.]


    [The Tutorial-Grade Item Shop can be used through an Intermediate Administrator.]


    Intermediate Administrator was System lingo for what we called Streamer, so Senia. She had been continuously trailing me, observing me the whole time, just as I wanted. It was because I made for pretty great quality material.


    Senia.


    Senia appeared, seemingly knowing why I called her.


    I will give you an exnation of the Item Shop.


    Originally, the Shop hadnt been opened in the Tutorial, so even though I was already very familiar with it, I decided to listen to Senias exnation anyway.


    We are currently in the Tutorial Field. The Item Shops grade has been set to Tutorial, and as such, only four items can be purchased.


    There wasnt anything all that special in her exnation. I opened up the Item Shop.


    [Item Shop  Tutorial-Grade]<ol><li aria-level="1">Low Constitution Potion100 Coins</li><li aria-level="1">Low Mana Potion100 Coins</li><li aria-level="1">Low Cure Potion200 Coins</li><li aria-level="1">Low Safe Zone Return Scroll3000 Coins</li></ol>


    Like Senia said, the Tutorial-grade Item Shop had a lot of limitations.


    There are only four things I can buy, but


    In the Tutorial, this was already plenty. Plus, I had 8,000 Coins in my possession.


    I ask yer Kim Hyukjin once again. Do you really not have a True Name?


    You dont need to know.


    I didnt even know what a True Name was. At my response, Senias wings trembled again. She was as expressionless as ever, but when she spoke to me again, her voice was at least half a pitch higher.


    I am not very curious about it either.


    It looked like she was lying through her teeth and was actually very curious, but I didnt pay much attention to her. I looked once again in the direction the Fist King, So Yoohyun, and the others had gone. At the end of that path was the D-Tower.


    If I have these


    With the potions, it was doable. I didnt have to use the level up trick like I did when hunting the miniboss, the Goblin Soldier, because I could definitely handle it by using the Constitution and Cure Potions.


    yer Kim Hyukjin.


    What?


    You havent checked the Excellent Hunter title.


    There could only be one reason why she was saying such a thing. She wanted to make it public to the Guardians. She wanted to tell them the yer she was broadcasting earned this and that kind of title, by doing A, B, C. I was sure the Guardians were also on the edge of their seats.


    Yeah. Ill check it now.


    Will you check the Excellent Hunter title?


    But Ill do it on my own.


    Senias face was as t as usual.


    You dont look so happy? Did you think I would open up a public window and let you take a look?


    As I have emphasized time and time again, I am not curious about you in the least.


    After saying so, Senia returned to her opaque state, as if to say she wouldnt meddle with me anymore.


    Shes a total newb.


    I saw how cleverly the Streamers handled Rankers ten yearster, and in my eyes, Senia seemed like a true beginner of beginners. In other words


    Shes easy for me to handle.


    It was good for me. To be an amazing yer, it would be best not to publicize my information to the Guardians too much. It was most advantageous for the yer to maintain a certain level of mystery. That would stimte the curiosity of the Guardians, and it was my job right now to slowly sate their desire.


    Lets see here.


    What kind of title did I get from killing the Hidden Monster, a Lycanthrope, that appeared on the Hidden Field? Normally, it was an impossible monster for someone of my level to hunt. I turned my attention to checking what kind of reward I had received from it.


    Check.


    I opened the title description.


    [Excellent Hunter]


    A special title only given on the Tutorial Field.


    Applies only to creatures recognized by the System as non-sentient beings.<ol><li aria-level="1">20% additional damage.</li><li aria-level="1">+10% movement speed.</li><li aria-level="1">Ability to use the skill Hunters Strikea low chance to ignore the preys unique trait.</li></ol>


    Non-sentient beings means


    That would include the Lycanthrope I had just hunted, the City Wolves, the City Foxes, and other monsters of that nature. Goblins probably fell under the umbre as well. It applied to most low-level monsters.


    Itll definitely be good in the lower-level period.


    Most sentient monsters were high-level and tricky to fight. That meant it would be a long time before I came in contact with them, and in the lower-level period, this title would be extremely useful.


    Cant believe I got two titles in the Tutorial.


    It was a boon I hadnt even dreamt of. That was something no one in the past had ever achieved. Even the Fist King So Yoohyun only ever got the Tutorial Ender title.


    I even got a skill.


    The skill came with an additional effect.


    A low chance to ignore the preys unique trait.


    This was pretty good in its own way, too, though it was unfortunate it was only a low chance. Whenever a monster had some kind of unique defense ability, I could pierce through it.


    After hunting the Lycanthrope, I was lost in thought for a moment. It was obscured by buildings, but it felt like I could see it clearlythe D-Tower.


    Sunhwa.


    Yes?


    Were going to D-Tower.


    Thats the ce where we killed the Goblin Soldier, right? The Tutorial Dungeon.


    Yes.


    To be precise, we were heading to the 2nd floor of the D-Tower. So Yoohyun and his group had likely already gone that way. By now


    Theyre probably looking around the 1st floor.


    I didnt think they had gone up to the 2nd floor yet.


    Oppa, are you thinking about the 2nd floor over there?


    Yeah.


    You said it was extremely dangerous.


    That was definitely true. That thing on the 2nd floor wasnt something that could be hunted by normal means. Even the Fist King So Yoohyun saidter that going in there was the thing he regretted most.


    Think about when we first met.


    The very first time we had met, this child was hardly a match for a baby Goblin. All she could do was beg for help, shaking in fear.


    It hasnt even been one week, but what do you think will happen if you meet a baby Goblin now?


    Even if a Goblin swarm were to appear, with this kids physical ability, she would be fine. Sunhwa quickly picked up on what I was trying to say.


    That oppa has be that much stronger? Way more than you expected?


    I didnt respond. At that, Sunhwa crossed her arms and nodded, her expression incredibly serious. Then, she mumbled like a sage who had uncovered all of the hidden truths and principles of the world. Figures, oppa is an outstanding ultra genius, after all.


    Right. Im also a little confused.


    By my original standards, Sunhwa was the real genius, but it seemed like I was even more of a genius than her. Or rather, considering the current situation, that was a fact.


    I thought of the D-Tower, the 2nd floor.


    Theres no chance of winning with a direct confrontation.


    But there were also no tricks that worked on it, like with the Lycanthrope. It was actually a very tricky opponent. That was why I wanted to avoid it, if at all possible, but the situation had changed. I knew that monster very well, and I came to the conclusion that with my current skills, I could definitely kill it.


    I have a n.


    I outlined the n from start to finish in my head. It would be a lie to say it wouldnt be dangerous, but


    I can definitely do it.


    I could do it. I had the confidence to make it happen.


    No. I <i>want</i> to make it happen.


    The desire to aplish and seed was growing and swirling within my chest, a feeling that was almost a first for me in my entire life. During my days as a civil servant student, I didnt feel anything like this. One thing was for surethe current me was different from the past me.


    You dont have toe if you dont want to. Go to a Safe Zone and hide.


    If everything went as nned, as I imagined, I would go far beyond simply surviving the Tutorial and would be able to gain something far greater.


    How many times had I seized such opportunities in my life? Never.


    I hadnt had any opportunities. My mom passed early, my sister became sick with leukemia, and I was stuck being a civil servant.


    But now, it was time for me to seize my chance.


    * * *


    So Yoohyuns group entered the D-Tower and heard the notice saying it was the Tutorial Dungeon. At the word dungeon, So Yoohyun brought his guard up.


    Whats going on? Theres nothing here?


    Yeah, I was nervous for nothing.


    They ttered themselves for having adapted fairly well to the System.


    But its a tutorial anyway, right? How strong could something possibly be?


    Meanwhile, So Yoohyun discovered something.


    Thats


    He approached an ATM. The ATM screen had beenpletely torn apart. It looked like something with tremendous torque had punched through it.


    What the heck could it have been? I havent seen such destructive force outside.


    Goosebumps rose on his arms. That was how terrifying the destructive force appeared to be.


    Not even I could have survived that. So Yoohyun had a hunch. Someone was already here.


    He believed someone hade here, cleared it, and left. At least the 1st floor, that is.


    Who could it have been?


    For some reason, one person appeared in his mind. He recalled that man with the powerful presence, the man who had been with the young girl. Why that was the case, he didnt know, but that was the face that came to mind. That very ordinary-looking person had left a strong impression on Yoohyun.


    Just then, someone shouted, Over here! You can click the esctor over here!


    It was like an RPG game. It went without saying that it wasnt like moving your mouse to actually click on a button. Looking at the esctor with your eyes was enough to know that it was a clickable object.


    [Esctor Going to the 2nd Floor]


    An esctor going to the Main Field of D-Tower, the 2nd Floor. Can transport fifteen people at once.


    Cooldown: Twenty minutes


    Several people buzzed in excitement.


    What should we do? Should we try going up to the 2nd floor?


    These people had already felt that ying was rather fun. In other words, they were people with the right personality to be Rankers. Someone who didnt think ying was fun could not be a Ranker. After all, thinking of ying in that way was a type of talent in itself. They felt themselves grow hot with excitement.


    Wont it be dangerous?


    Other than the 1st and 2nd waves, it wasnt that dangerous.


    But its still a dungeon and the Tutorial Field will end in a little bit. I have the feeling we shouldnt overdo it


    So Yoohyun fell into deep contemtion.


    Do we have to go up?


    If surviving was his goal, then it would probably be fine to stay here. Did they really have to raid the 2nd floor? It also seemed like monsters didnt really respawn here, making it aparatively safe ce.


    What do you think, Mr. So Yoohyun?


    Just then, he heard a notice.[The Tutorial Field will be open for 24 more hours.]


    For some unknown reason, the contents of the quest were altered.


    [The contents of the Tutorial Quest have been altered.]


    [If yers fail to clear the Tutorial Dungeon, all people within the Tutorial Field will die.]


    This was a Tutorial Field-wide notice. The answer was predetermined. So Yoohyun made his decision.


    Were going in.


    Sounds good. Well, with you around, everythingll die in one hit.


    Everyone other than So Yoohyun was full of confidence. They activated the esctor heading to the 2nd floor.


    Completely unaware of what was waiting for them, they teleported to the Tutorial Dungeon 2nd Floor Raid that the Fist King So Yoohyun wouldter consider his greatest regret.


    * * *


    <i>A few minutes prior</i>


    We saw the D-Tower in the distance.


    We ended uping back, she said.


    Kang Sunhwa had followed before, saying,I just want to y. I think I can be of help, too. She didnt have the pros and cons calctions orplicated thoughts adultsmonly entertained. She simply followed, all for the vague reason that she might be helpful.


    Yeah.


    I hadnt expected wed being back here, either. Gwanghwamun D-Tower, the ce with the miniboss monster, the Goblin Soldier. We hade back.


    We heard a notice, a field-wide notice that rang out in the entirety of the Tutorial Field.


    [The contents of the Tutorial Quest have been altered.]


    [Please clear the Tutorial Dungeon.]


    [If yers fail to clear the Tutorial Dungeon, all people within the Tutorial Field will die.]


    Such a notice hadnt existed in the history I had studied. It was devastating. If the Tutorial Dungeon wasnt cleared, all 150,000 people on the field would die.


    I didnt panic.


    The quest is different.


    The situation had changed. However


    Me being here is also different.


    Two people who hadnt existed in the events from ten years ago were here. I didnt feel all that bothered by the fact the quest had changed. As sudden as it was, I epted it without a fuss.


    [Entering the Tutorial Dungeon, D-Tower.]


    Two people who hadnt existed here ten years ago, me and Kang Sunhwa, entered the Tutorial Dungeon.

 Chapter 13: D-Tower 2nd Floor (2)

    Chapter 13: D-Tower 2nd Floor (2)


    Sung Minchul considered meeting So Yoohyun to be his lifes greatest fortune. In his eyes, So Yoohyun had an enormous talent for ying. To put it in other words, he was a genius.


    [Let me help you. Come with me.]


    The sight of the good natured-looking Yoohyun saving him from getting eaten by a Goblin was still vivid in his mind. Among the yers, So Yoohyun was simply overwhelming. If he stayed with this person, he would probably be able to, at the very least, survive this strange phenomenon. Sung Minchul didnt doubt for a moment that this Tutorial Field was a field set up for So Yoohyun.


    However, the situation changed a little. Not far away, he saw a green mass of muscle, named a Magic Troll.Magic Troll LVL ?


    Its name was red, and its level wasnt even indicated.


    <i>Uohhhhhh!</i>


    The Magic Troll swung its huge fist.


    Argh!


    So Yoohyun tried to block it, but the situation wasnt looking too good. From the way his left arm dangled afterwards, it looked like his shoulder was dislocated.


    Hah! Haah! Haah!


    So Yoohyun looked exhausted. Sung Minchul barely managed to sit up, blood dripping from his mouth. Next to him were people who had died in one hit of that fist. Whether they had fainted, or died, he wasnt sure, but they were most likely dead. He didnt have the luxury of checking. In any case, the only people who still had their heads on straight were Minchul himself and So Yoohyun.


    Minchul wiped the blood from his lips with his sleeve.


    Dammit


    He had a feeling that he would die here. If, by some chance, someone were to get out of this ce alive, it wouldnt be him. It wasnt as if he didnt consider running away, but


    [The Boss Zone has not been deactivated.]


    [Fleeing the Boss Zone is only possible for ten seconds after entry.]


    [You cannot flee.]


    He couldnt flee.


    I might die here.


    No, there was a high chance he would die here.


    Im going to die.


    Fear swelled within him. He truly regretted his bravado beforeing to the 2nd floor.


    So Yoohyuns right fist glowed blue.


    Aahhhhhh!


    He punched out, hitting the green monster, the troll, squarely in the side. That fist that had smashed every monster up until now had no effect this time.


    There was a resounding impact, but the troll merely frowned a little.


    Dammit!


    Even So Yoohyun felt like he was fighting a massive wall. But just then, he heard another notice.


    [New yers are entering.]


    [There is no maximum yer limit.]


    [Fleeing the Boss Zone is only possible for ten seconds after entry.]


    Minchul and Yoohyun turned to look at the esctor at the same time. Minchul cried out, Run!


    Ten seconds. They only had ten seconds left.


    You can still run within ten seconds!


    If they didnt go back on the esctor within ten seconds, they would be trapped here. He saw a young girl, a child in her early teens at best. Suddenly, tears welled up in his eyes.


    Mina.


    He had a daughter exactly around that age. She had just be a middle school student. His daughters face came to mind and seemed to ovep with the face of the girl he saw. <i>It would be great if that child didnt die,</i> he thought. <i>Shes not my daughter, but it would be great if she lived.</i> It would be great if she didnte here. Because if she did, the only thing that awaited her was a brutal death.


    This guy can never, ever be killed, so hurry and get out of here!


    Whether they heard his words or not, the two people walked over from the esctor not far into the distance.


    Please! Please, run. Cant you hear me? Dont you see this crazy monster?!


    He had walked over here just as gantly, thinking that no matter how strong the monster might look, it was still the Tutorial Field, a <i>tutorial, </i>and they had So Yoohyun. Because he was with a person who had been born to y. That conceit had been shattered in just one minute. It was obvious that the same would happen to the neers.


    Dont be reckless and go back! Its too dangerous!


    <i>Please go back. Donte to this harsh ce and die.</i>


    <i>Crash!</i>


    The sound of impact rang out. It was the sound of So Yoohyun getting hit. Taking the trolls fist to his head, Yoohyun fainted.


    Meanwhile, Kim Hyukjin came ever closer.


    * * *


    I told you to aim for the left eye, didnt I?


    Kim Hyukjin walked towards the troll, not too fast or too suddenly. Though the troll was thatrge, it was as fast as a lithe tiger. He walked slowly on purpose, judging it wouldnt be good to draw aggro while he still didnt have a good grasp on the situation.


    While he was walking, he heard a shout that was nearly a scream, but he ignored it. Aftering closer, he saw the trolls information in his mind.Magic Troll LVL ?


    The name was written in red, indicating that it was absolutely not a monster Hyukjin could easily kill. In fact, it was likely a very difficult opponent.


    A little ways to the side, he saw So Yoohyun lying unconscious after getting hit in the head.


    Its a monster that can go up against the Fist King So Yoohyun.


    The troll was a monster with incredibly good vitality. It was also extremely resilient. Moreover, it happened to have a particrly high resistance to fist attacks. With the addition of the boss monster stat buff, the troll was definitely a tricky opponent, a boss monster that required you to stack on continuous damage with frontal methods.


    [The Nameless Observer is watching you.]


    [The Lady of the Scales is watching you.]


    It seemed even the Guardians thought the current Kim Hyukjin couldnt kill the troll. However, he didnt run. Instead, he continued to advance. The notices continued to stream in.


    [The Nameless Observer has high hopes for you.]


    [The Lady of the Scales marvels at your heroic appearance.]


    The Nameless Observer seemed to want to observe how Hyukjin would kill the troll, while the Lady of the Scales was more interested in how he would save the survivors here. The two Guardians wanted slightly different things, but in any case, there was no mistake that Hyukjin had to defeat the troll.


    He pulled out the Iron Sword and checked his slots.


    I memorized how to use them.


    If he used the slots, he didnt have to physically drink the potions. Items moved to his slots could be used immediately simply by willing it. It was like a keyboard shortcut in a game.


    Im all ready to go.


    He was scared. Originally, he would have nevere into this ce. But now, he had the Item Shop. He had potions.


    Besides its enormous resilience, its actual attack power isnt that high.


    The fact most of So Yoohyuns group was still alive was proof of that. They were scattered on the ground, almost all of them unconscious. Itcked the intelligence to check whether the people were dead or not.


    The troll could be defined as such: a dumb monster with strong resilience and constitution.


    Kim Hyukjin said, Sunhwa. Those people arent dead yet. Theyre not corpses.


    Huh?


    Sunhwa flinched in surprise. Her face flushed a bit.


    I-I didnt think they were dead. Really. I wasnt thinking bad thoughts.


    Thats not what I mean. Put this in their mouths.


    He handed her recovery potions, which he had stocked up from the Item Shop. With these, they would be out of the woods for the time being. It was the final act of conscience he could offer after having turned away from so many people. He didnt intend to die for them, but he could still save them from dying.


    This is all I can do for them.


    Getting out of here alive was their responsibility.


    If they happen to regain consciousness, be sure to tell them not to move and just stay still. Tell them not to attack, he added.


    Got it.


    After Kim Hyukjin thought he had done everything he could, he looked forward again.Magic Troll LVL ?


    The monster that looked like the Hulk stared in Hyukjins direction.


    The Fist King of the past managed to kill something like this.


    Of course, there were differences from the past and now. Other than So Yoohyun, everyone here had died. There was also a high chance that Yoohyun had been the one who had hunted the miniboss, the Goblin Soldier.


    As a result, the Tutorials Fist King has be as much weaker as I have grown stronger.


    Which meant


    His current skills arecking.


    Yoohyun was still unconscious. Hyukjin walked close, but not close enough to greatly provoke the troll.


    It has great resilience and moves quickly, but its attacking speed is slow.


    There wasnt any real strat. You had to slowly, steadily pile on the damage over a long period of time. That meant the challenger had tost a long time, too, something that was possible with potions.


    <i>Thud! Thud! Thud! Thud!</i>


    The mass of muscle began to stomp its way over. It was fast.[The Excellent Hunter title is taking effect.]


    <i>Whoosh!</i>


    Within mere moments, a huge fist came swinging his way. However, Hyukjin could follow that fist clearly with his eyes. He couldnt quite read the next movement or perfectly track its path, but


    I can see the trajectory.


    At the very least, at this moment, he could see exactly how that fist would swing.


    Duck my head.


    <i>Whoosh!</i>


    The Magic Trolls fist swept past the hairs on his head. As expected of its enormous size, the attack carried a certain degree of strength, but that meant nothing if it didntnd.


    Hyukjin thrust his sword into the trolls abdomen.


    Its not hitting.


    Just like how Hyukjin had read the trolls movements, the troll had read his as well. Their speeds were evenly matched, victor or loser not apparent to the eye. With the buff of the Excellent Hunter title, their speeds were equal.


    Okay.


    He opened his Status Window.


    [Status Window]


    Name: Kim Hyukjin (yer)


    Level: 15


    Title: [Excellent Hunter] [First Pioneer]


    Strength: 17


    Intelligence: 17


    Agility: 17


    Perception: 17


    Constitution: 17


    Willpower: 17 (+30)


    Bonus stats: 2


    Random stats: 4


    Undistributed stats: 6


    He was level 15. Thanks to getting random stats for whatever reason, his stats were a far cry from a regr level 15 yer. A regr yer would have stats like these at level 20.


    6 undistributed stats.


    When fighting the lycanthrope, he had used the High Strength Elixir. Back then, he physically experienced how big an effect +6 had.


    Put them all in Agility.


    The troll had high resilience, but its defense wasnt actually so high that it couldnt take damage.


    [Agility increased.]


    [Agility increased.]


    Adding +6 to Agility, his current Agility was 23. As his Agility stat shot up, he felt his body grow lighter. He could see the trolls movements more precisely, and with his increased speed, Hyukjin began to gain the upper hand.


    <i>Uooogh!</i>


    The troll swung its fists. Hyukjin dodged and struck repeatedly, hunting the troll while continuously avoiding close calls. From afar, Sung Minchul stared in a daze.


    Even So Yoohyun was at its mercy, but


    A single person was fighting a monster that not just So Yoohyun, but all fifteen people who hade here, hadnt been able to touch. Though the fight looked so dicey it seemed as if the yer could be blown away at any moment, he was hunting the troll.


    Hes soloing it?


    Theres always someone better. That was what people said. Watching the scene before him now, Sung Minchul felt it was true.


    How can he be like that?


    They had been ying for the same amount of time, so how could that man handle such a monster on his own?


    Is he the real genius?


    His talent was so overwhelming it made even So Yoohyun, someone Minchul had thought of as a genius, look like an ordinary Joe. A crme de crme level of talent that relegated geniuses to normalcy. A kind of skill reaching a different world, a domain that couldnt be approached by any amount of effort. Minchul felt that the man he saw had that kind of talent, skill, and something more.


    At that moment, that was how the situation yed out for Sung Minchul. One hour passed with him watching in awe.


    * * *


    Blood flowed from the trolls left eye. I breathed raggedly.


    Haah! Haah!


    The troll was estimated to be level 25. With the boss monster stat buff, the constitution of the Magic Troll was beyond imagination. Despite that, I didnt feel all that desperate.


    I can do this.


    While fighting the Magic Troll, I felt it again. The Magic Troll wasnt an impossible foe to hunt. For yers of the Tutorial level, it was considered as a foe that couldnt be soloed, but that wasnt true.


    I can definitely kill it.


    I could kill it normally, without any tricks. As I fought, I could certainly feel that I was most likely a genius.


    [Low Constitution Potion has been used.]


    [Low Constitution Potion has been used.]


    Of course, I hadnt gotten to this point on talent and strategies alone. There was definitely some item abuse going on. Potion abuse, to be exact. I was only managing by chugging two potions in one go, but without potions, I would have really fallen over. But now, the end was nearing.


    Perhaps because they were suffering under the special ability of the Magic Troll, the people seemed to have no intention of stirring. They had been unconscious for one hour. If they at least woke up, if So Yoohyun at least woke up, he could help out a little, but it didnt matterit was almost over. The troll was as exhausted as I was.[The Magic Trolls regeneration power has been used up.]


    The troll could no longer regenerate. That was the result of one hour of bloody fighting. Another ten minutes ticked past, and then I clenched the hilt of my sword.


    The final blowester.


    I had to wait. Right now, I had to bide my time. A littleter, every piece of the puzzle woulde together. The time wasing for me to put the final stroke on the picture.


    But just then, a kink urred in my ns.

 Chapter 14: This is When Im the Cheapest

    Chapter 14: This is When I''m the Cheapest


    Gotta take my time with the final blow.


    I had to take my time killing the Troll. ording to the strategies I had seen, a dy of at least fifteen minutes was necessary. Otherwise, yet another change would ur in the Troll.


    Lets put in one more hit and then wait.


    My Iron Sword was about to hit the Trolls left eye, when[The Courageous Lion King wishes to help you.]


    I instantly stilled, but it was already toote to draw back my sword. The tip of the Iron Sword went into the Trolls left eye.


    [The Courageous Lion King has gifted you Superb Superhuman Strength, and it has taken effect.]


    [Due to Superb Superhuman Strength, the attack power of this attack has increased by 100%.]


    I instantly came to a conclusion.


    Dammit.


    There was no doubt that the damned Courageous Lion King had been waiting for this moment. He was probably snickering, [Now. Show me your courage.] If one day, I had the chance to beat a Guardian to death, that Guardian would be my first target.


    Its toote.


    What I had intended on being a light hit had be a finishing blow. I had dealt too powerful an attack without a dy. Now, the Trolls counterattack would begin.


    Even before I retracted my sword, I made a decision.


    I have to run.


    <i>Plunge!</i>


    The Iron Sword plunged into the Magic Trolls left eye.


    <i>Ting!</i>


    And then, an arrow flew out of nowhere and embedded itself in the middle of the Magic Trolls forehead along with a triumphant I did it!


    * * *


    One of the guys that had been unconscious near the Troll had fired an arrow. His name was Jang Hyunsoo. He had received a bow as his random weapon and was a pretty good hand at it. Actually, it had been quite a while since he regained consciousness.


    If youe to, dont do anything and just stay still. Thats what oppa said.


    Jang Hyunsoo had heard those words. He had remained lying down in fear, because if he identally drew the Trolls aggro, he would die. After praying for what seemed like an eternity for that man to somehow kill the Troll, he opened his eyes to discover a shocking scene.


    What the hell? Holy shit. Its almost dead.


    A monster that even So Yoohyun couldnt kill was almost hunted by a man who didnt look all that special. Hyunsoo hadnt even imagined that there was a yer stronger than So Yoohyun.


    Its really almost over?


    Once this Troll fell, the Tutorial would end. Once his desire to survive was satisfied, a different kind of greed began to bud within him.


    If I put in the finishing blow!


    There would be a lot of rewards for simply dealing the finishing hit. Even though he couldnt grab all the rewards, he thought he would be able to get at least half.


    I dont really need to stay still just because that little girl told me to, right?


    He could just say he hadnt heard her. Or he could just say he helped that man with no consideration for his own life because it looked dangerous. There were plenty of excuses or justifications he could use.[Using the skill Strengthened Arrow.]


    He let his arrow fly. The big Troll made arge target, and he was lucky this time, managing to nt the arrow precisely in the middle of the Trolls forehead.


    Its a sess!


    He sessfully dealt the final blow. The Troll staggered. It seemed as though the Tutorials boss monster, the Magic Troll, would disappear like that.


    I was the one who killed the boss monster! I killed it!


    It was possible he might be stronger than So Yoohyun. His heart began to thump.


    Reward! Whats the reward?!


    A smile floated unbidden to his lips at the thought of the reward. He felt like he was getting a reward that matched all of his struggles up to this point. He had killed a <i>boss monster</i>.


    Kim Hyukjin, who had run over, asked him a question.


    Why did you do that?


    The final blow wasnt the end. This man had made a mistake just now.


    I think you must have dealt the final blow just now.


    A change urred in the Magic Troll. At the same time, notices began to stream in.


    If you want to live, run. I cant save you.


    The Magic Trolls gaze turned to Jang Hyunsoo. Unlike what the Courageous Lion King had nned, Hyunsoo was the one who drew the aggro.


    * * *


    Kang Sunhwa fed people Constitution Pots as she nced stealthily at Kim Hyukjin, who was breathing hard as he fought the Magic Troll for over an hour.


    Its been over one hour.


    Over that time, Sunhwa had continued to pour potions into peoples mouths, never forgetting to warn them.


    Fortunately, I dont think anyone died. There was only one person left. Thats thest person I have to feed.


    Moving carefully, she headed to the remaining person, So Yoohyun. She straightened the unconscious man on the ground and tilted open his mouth, then began to pour in a potion.


    [The Lady of the Scales is delighted by your act of good.]


    [The Lady of the Scales wishes to gift you a Tutorial Bonus.]


    [The Lady of the Scales has gifted you the Tutorial skill tinum Shield.]


    Sunhwa fed So Yoohyun, a man of the same age as Kim Hyukjin, a second potion. She didnt have the time to check the skill at all.


    Mister, wake up.


    At longst, So Yoohyun began to regain consciousness like the others.


    * * *


    There was a reason why I wanted to take my time dealing the final blow. If you killed the Magic Troll in one hit, it would go into a berserker state, a state of ultimate agitation. That monster wasnt something the current me could defeat, no matter how hard I struggled. It was a monster that had to be killed slowly, leaving plenty of time in between blows.


    <i>Kuaaaagghhh!</i>


    The Magic Trolls green skin began to turn red, and sinew bulged out all over its body.


    [The rationality of the boss, the Magic Troll, is starting to numb.]


    [The boss, the Magic Troll, is going into a berserker state.]


    [With the loss of the boss monsters rationality, the Boss Monster Zone will be deactivated.]


    I spoke quickly.


    Sunhwa.


    Yes?


    Run.


    And then, I ran ahead of her.


    <i>Kuaaaagghhh!</i>


    The Magic Troll started running towards the archer who had dealt it the final blow.


    I cant tell whether this is good or bad luck.


    I really couldnt tell, and I didnt have the leisure to contemte it. I didnt even look behind me. The berserk Troll could kill with a touch.


    The reddened Troll grabbed the archer by the ankles and lifted him upside down.


    U-Uaaaaaghhhhh!


    And then, the Troll mmed him down again and again to the left and right.


    <i>Thud! Thud!</i>


    With each thump, the archers screams became weaker and weaker. I could tell without even looking. The sounds told me everything.


    That has to be instant death.


    There wasnt even time to light a candle, to pray for the mans departed soul. The berserk Trolls movements were even faster than the lycanthropes. I swiftly activated the esctor prompt.


    [Esctor Going to the 1st Floor]


    An esctor going to the Miniboss Field of D-Tower, the 1st Floor. Can transport fifteen people at once.


    Cooldown: The descending esctor has no cooldown.


    Hurry and run!


    I used the esctor to move to the 1st floor. The Boss Monster Zone had been deactivated and no longer restricted the use of the esctor. For now, I had to escape, no matter what. I wasnt able to pay any attention to the people copsed on the 2nd floor, and I didnt know what was going on up there. I simply prayed that they would survive on their own.


    I slightly bit my lips.


    A variable.


    I had failed to ount for possible variables. Only a god could know everything. This was a learning experience. I had learned my lesson, so in the future, I would include variables like this into my calctions. The scheming of Guardians, their enjoyment, all of it had to be included in my future raids and calctions. I really learned my lesson.


    O-Oppa, what happened?


    Dunno, run.


    There was no time to exin. We had to run and see. I didnt know how this guys D-Tower was structured, but it didnt look like the esctor continued running down to other floors. The elevator to go down was a bit far away.


    No.


    That wasnt a real elevator. There happened to be one on the 1st floor, but it wasnt possible to prompt an exnation window. It didnt work. Right now, we werent safe. There was no knowing when that crazy Troll woulde down and bash in my head.


    Over there. Lets go down the stairs. My eyes fell on the stairs. We just have to reach the 2nd floor underground.


    Sunhwa worked hard to follow me. I opened the emergency door and ran down the emergency stairs, heading for the 2nd underground floor. It was the Additional Safe Zone only I had heard of, the D-Tower underground 2nd floor parking lot.


    But as we ran, the <i>thud thud thud thud!</i> of massive footsteps came from above. It almost sounded like a dinosaur.


    Shit!


    How was a creature two meters in size with that kind of bulk able to move so fast? It almost felt like an earthquake was shaking the stairs.


    We have to run faster.


    Apparently, it had finished its business on the 2nd floor, because it made a beeline for me. Currently, I was on the 1st underground floor. I dragged Sunhwa along. Sunhwa had extremely good resilience, but her constitution itself wasnt that great.


    Run faster!


    I gripped Sunhwas thin wrist hard in one hand, starting to drag her down the stairs. She was tripping, but there was no time to pay any attention to that.


    She wont be hurt by this.


    Her body had beenpletely unhurt by a Goblins dagger. Even if I roughly towed her along, she wouldnt get any big injuries, just a few scratches, at the most. Ending up with a few scratches was way better than getting smashed to pieces by a berserking Troll.


    <i>Hah! Hah! Hah!</i>


    I gasped for air.


    <i>Thud! Thud! Thud! Thud!</i>


    The Trolls footsteps sounded closer and closer, until I could even hear the growl of its breathing.


    Whys the 2nd underground floor so far?!


    I saw a sign saying we were heading towards the 2nd underground floor. I ran with all my strength towards that destination, the Safe Zone. And then, I saw the door going into the 2nd underground floor.


    It was a fire door, the type that could be opened by pushing the bar. I mmed my weight into it to open it, and as I did so, the Magic Troll was right on our tail.


    O-Oppa!


    The berserking Troll with only the whites of its eyes visible punched out.


    <i>Crash!</i>


    Shit.


    With the sound of an exploding bomb, the fire door crumpled like a piece of paper. I had survived by swiftly ducking, but if that fist had hit me, I would have flown to the heavens. My hair stood on end.


    Why the hell are there twoyers of fire doors?!


    We had to open another one to go inside. Only then could we enter the 2nd underground floor parking lot. Somehow, the fire door felt impossibly heavy today. I pushed it open.


    I felt a shiver run down my back and knew. The Troll was readying its fist again behind us. I couldnt describe it exactly, but I somehow knew. The back of my head was tingling.


    Definitely.


    Somehow, <i>somehow,</i> I felt it. I <i>saw </i>it, even without seeing it. The trajectory of its fist, and the end of its trajectory, were outlined in my head.


    [The System has recognized a critical situation.]


    [Confirming that the situation aligns with the Tutorial Field Boss Monsters Unique Situation and a Special Encounter.]


    [Forcibly awakening your dormant talent, the Innate Ability engraved in your body.]


    Special encounter. Dormant talent. Innate ability. I didnt hear any of it.


    [Innate Ability, Sixth Sense, has been forcibly activated.]


    I had no time to pay attention to that notice. However, Sixth Sense vividly sketched out what was happening behind me in my head. I could see, without looking.


    The Trolls swinging fist, where that fist wouldnd, how fast it would traveleverything was naturallyid out before me. How I should act to avoid that fist, what kind of movement I should show, it was all clear to me, as if I were someone who had been trained to perfection. The oues of ten different actions were all instantly sketched out in my head.


    And the result of that calction was clear.


    I cant dodge.


    There was absolutely nowhere to evade. No matter how I moved, no matter how I dodged, no matter how I blocked, the result of each and every action was my death.


    I had a feeling.


    Im gonna die.


    The fear of death filled my head to the brim for one moment. For a very short millisecond, what felt like a long time to me, my innate ability, Sixth Sense, loudly proimed my death.


    But then, a miracle urred.

 Chapter 15: This is When Im the Cheapest (2)

    Chapter 15: This is When I''m the Cheapest (2)


    Kang Sunhwa could definitely feel it.


    If I take that hit instead, Ill die.


    The chances of that happening were high. She didnt have Kim Hyukjins Sixth Sense, but she was indeed a talent worthy of being called a genius. She could at least feel very clearly that if she took that attack, she could die.


    I have to block it.


    She didnt think about it for long. She merely thought that she could lose her life, not what would happen if she didnt or what she could gain by doing such a thing. She <i>had </i>to block it. If she didnt, Kim Hyukjins head would be bashed in.


    Im going to block it!


    It wasnt a calcted action. She didnt stop to weigh the pros and cons. She was simply going to block it.


    I will!


    At that moment, all she thought about was protecting Hyukjin. And so, she extended her hand.[Using the skill tinum Shield.]


    <i>ng!</i>


    A ng as loud as two hollow aluminum baseball bats colliding burst out. It was the sound of the Trolls meaty fist ncing off Kang Sunhwas thin arm.


    [tinum Shield has detected an excessive physical force.]


    [The skill tinum Shield has evenly distributed the impact.]


    Sunhwa blocked the Magic Trolls fist with her thin arm. To be exact, she slightly redirected the fists trajectory.


    She lost consciousness before she could even scream. Hyukjin didnt look behind him to see what happened. He had no time to do so. He just ran, hauling Sunhwa along while clenching his teeth.


    * * *


    Sunhwa used a new ability.


    I didnt know what it was, but it seemed like a Tutorial bonus, as well as a skill she hadnt used before.


    [You have escaped the crisis of death while Sixth Sense was in an active state.]


    [You have ovee the death sentence of Sixth Sense.]


    [A condition for the fusion of Sixth Sense has been fulfilled.]


    Even amidst my desperate scramble to flee, I came to a conclusion.


    It must be one of the beginner skills given by the Lady of the Scales.


    The Lady of the Scales happened to be watching the Intermediate Administrator Senias channel. That meant she was watching this scene just like the others. From that, I could guess what kind of ability had just blocked the Magic Trolls attack.


    tinum Shield.


    Kang Sunhwa had protected him by using tinum Shield.


    For a regr yer, even if they used tinum Shield no matter where they were hit, it would be instant death.


    It was because it was Sunhwa. Because it was Sunhwa, a girl whose talent for tanking exceeded genius. She was still at an age where her talent tes had probably not yet bloomed, and yet despite that, she managed to block the Magic Trolls attack. This could only be seen as a miracle achieved by Sunhwas talent.


    Were almost at the Safe Zone!


    The archer yers helpful but also not helpful kill steal earned me some time, and Sunhwas tinum Shield earned me some more. To me, all of this was a miracle, a miracle that allowed me to leap over the Lion Kings evil scheme.


    I disyed a burst of superhuman strength, dragging Sunhwa along.


    We just have to get past that ss door.


    Once we were past the ss door, it would be the parking lot field, a ce that was still valid as a Safe Zone. That was the Safe Zone only I had heard about. I hurled myself forward, Sunhwa in my embrace.


    The ss shattered, and I rolled on the ground, holding onto Sunhwa.[You have entered the extra Safe Zone, D-Tower Parking Lot 2nd Floor.]


    <i>Kuooooogh!</i>


    As if blocked by a transparent wall, the Troll was unable toe in. Infuriated, it battered the invisible wall with its fists like crazy, but it wasnt at the level of a ruthless monster that could break through a Safe Zone setting.


    Hey, Sunhwa! Get a hold of yourself. Kang Sunhwa!


    Her arm was limp. She had taken on that crazy Trolls destructive force with such a slender arm. It appeared the shock of impact had traveled up her shoulder into her insides.


    Hey!


    I tried putting a potion into her mouth, but it was no use. She remained in a state of just barely breathing.


    <i>Kuoooooogh!</i>


    The Magic Troll continued to batter the barrier. The look in its eyes was like zing mes.


    Itll die in a few minutes.


    I bit my lips. The monster had about  of its HP left. A berserking Magic Troll would be able to release tremendous power, but it wouldnt be able to handle that power for long and would die. The more intensely it moved, the faster its HP would drain.


    Dammit.


    Sunhwa was still as unconscious as ever.


    Through Sixth Sense, the exact trajectory had been drawn out in my head. I had perceived it mentally, but my body simply hadnt been able to react. Sunhwa hadnt been a factor in that trajectoryshe had forcibly butted in, slightly redirecting the Trolls fist. Thanks to that, I had survived and Kang Sunhwa ended up on the verge of death. She had put out her arm for <i>my </i>sake.


    I red at the berserking Magic Troll.


    You piece of shit.


    The Magic Trolls HP was nearlypletely drained. To the very end, it burned the me of its lifeforce with frenzied rage.


    <i>Oooooooooghh!</i>


    With a terrible shriek, the Troll rampaged outside the Safe Zone it could not trespass. And then, it bravely died a natural death.


    [The berserk Magic Troll has died.]


    [The yer closest to the Magic Troll under level 20 within the same Field will be recognized as the hunter.]


    There was no way a yer under level 20 could possibly kill a berserking Magic Troll. As long as you could survive purely out of luck, the System would recognize you as killing the Magic Troll. In the past, that person was probably So Yoohyun.


    Senia appeared.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. You have been recognized as the yer who hunted the Magic Troll.


    I didnt feel very happy. Without realizing it, I red at Senia. The Streamer Senia, and the Guardians who turned the world like this so they could watch for their amusement, they were all on the same side.


    At the same time, field-wide notices rang out.


    [In ordance with the death of the Tutorial Field Boss Monster, the Tutorial Field will be deactivated.]


    [The Tutorial Quest has been cleared.]


    [Subsequent difficulty will be determined by the number of Tutorial Field survivors.]


    [Checking the number of Tutorial Field survivors.]


    I didnt know if that number was important, but it was the #1 recurring question in the civil servant exam. I knew exactly what that number was.


    5087 people.


    [The number of survivors is 5087.]


    [The difficulty has been set to Low.]


    I heard the number while cradling the unconscious Sunhwa.


    Its the same.


    To my surprise, it was exactly the same as the past. I had survived, and although she was unconscious, so had Sunhwa. That meant there should at least be two more survivors. But the number of survivors was exactly the same, down to thest digit.


    [Initiating the Tutorial rewards calction.]


    [The general system reward, as well as the individual rewards sent through Intermediate Administrators, will be distributed to each yer.]


    I administered emergency treatment, feeding Sunhwa healing potions so that she could hold onto the ember of life for just a few seconds longer.


    I can save her.


    I could do it. I <i>had </i>to.


    [As a general reward, all survivors have been given a yer Qualification.]


    [1,000 Coins acquired.]


    [Beginner Armor Set acquired.]


    [The level cap is lifted.]


    The general rewards were given out, but I didnt pay much attention to those notices. Right now, the copsed Sunhwa required my attention more. My mind whirled, drawing out the next events and how exactly I could save Sunhwa.


    [In ordance with the sessful clear of the Tutorial Field, the Tutorial Ender title will be given.]


    [The Tutorial Ender is a title given to the surviving yer remaining in the D-Tower 2nd Floor, the Tutorial Main Field.]


    [The Tutorial Ender title has been given to yer So Yoohyun.]


    [yer So Yoohyun has been registered in the Hall of Fame.]


    I already knew this would happen. I knew how to get the Tutorial Ender title. I had nned on not making the Troll berserk by slowly shaving away at it until it died, but my ns had gone slightly awry. However, I didnt regret not getting the title.


    On the 2nd floor of the D-Tower the only survivor is So Yoohyun.


    Everyone else had died, even the man who had yelled at me to run away.


    Its the same as the past.


    That was okay.


    Senia. We agreed to make a deal, didnt we?


    We hadnt negotiated the deal yet. After killing the miniboss monster, the Goblin Soldier, the deal had been dyed. But now, I intended on settling it.


    * * *


    I said, Im sure many prominent Guardians have entered your channel. They must also be paying attention to you, the one who snagged a mutant yer like me.


    Aside from the Nameless Observer, a Guardian even I didnt know.


    The Lady of the Scales. The Courageous Lion King. The two of them alone are Guardians with plenty of capital.


    Whats more


    The Nameless Observer personally sponsored me with more Coins than the Lady of the Scales.


    Senia was probably well aware of that.


    From the very start, I have proven my value.


    Senia didnt say anything. She had no choice but to acknowledge my words as the truth. No one, not even So Yoohyun, who had gotten the Tutorial Ender title, had been able to show a y as exciting as mine.


    Even an Intermediate Administrator as talentless as you should be able to survive <i>if </i>you have good quality content.


    Though I do not agree with your evaluation of me as talentless, I do acknowledge that I need good quality content to survive.


    Senia stared at me with her usual expressionless face.


    The Tutorial Field has ended, and the opening act is finished. Now, the true Tutorial mode will begin. Correct?


    Yes.


    Senia was unperturbed. Although this was something no regr yer should know, and I had been acting like I had a strategy guide on hand, she didnt show much reaction.


    I want you to raise the grade of my Item Shop. Right now. The Tutorial is over, so I dont think its an excessive request.


    After a short moment of silence, Senia said, I do not think that is a very sensible method. You have proven your worth. You have the right to demand more from me. Also, the Item Shop


    Will naturally have its restrictions lifted with time?


    Yes. It is a problem that time will solve.


    Currently, it was restricted to the Tutorial-grade. However, with the passage of time, the Item Shops grade would naturally rise.


    In my eyes, I saw the barely breathing Sunhwa.


    I will buy that time.


    The Tutorial Field had been deactivated. As such, changing the Item Shops grade from Tutorial to Beginner with the authority of an Intermediate Administrator wasnt all that hard.


    The reason I want to save Sunhwa is


    Because she had an unprecedented talent for tanking? Or because she was a jewel in the rough with incredible hidden potential? No, my reason for saving her was nothing that grand. Right now, it was because I want to save her. Sunhwa would have done the same for me, without any calctions of profit and loss.


    I faced Senia.


    Ill make an exclusive contract with you. For one year, no other Intermediate Administrator will be able to observe me. The Guardians will only be able to watch me through you, no matter what.


    Senias eyes grew wide. Of course she did, since I had already offered a yer-Intermediate Administrator exclusive contract as a card.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. Just exactly how much do you know?


    Thats not important. Whats important is


    Senias wingtips trembled.


    That I have caught the attention of many Guardians. That Im the only yer to have already received thousands of Coins. And that Im a Ranker who lifted the Tutorial Fields level cap ahead of time. Im sure the rumors will spread amongst the Intermediate Administrators as well.


    Remember this.


    Right now. This is when Im the cheapest.


    I hammered in the final nail.


    If you dont take me up now, there will be no next time.


    I was confident, confident that Senia would have no other choice than to ept my proposal. Sure enough, I heard a notice.

 Chapter 16: Innate Ability Awakening

    Chapter 16: Innate Ability Awakening


    Like Hyukjin expected, Senia had no choice but to ept his proposal. For Senia, it was a very sweet deal.


    [Your Item Shops grade is increasing.]


    [The Item Shops grade has been increased to Beginner.]


    She added an exnation. A lower grade Item Shop can be essed at any time.


    That meant Hyukjin could open the Tutorial-grade Item Shop whenever he wanted, though there probably wouldnt be any need to.


    The Item Shop has several different cate


    The Potion/Return Scroll category of the Item Shop. Open it.


    For a moment, Senia nearly became flustered. She hadnt even finished her exnation, but this yer already knew. As expected, he wasnt an ordinary yer. She didnt ask again, but she didnt rule out the possibility that he was some kind of higher existence she didnt know about.


    She politely responded, Understood. I will open up the Potion/Return Scroll category of the Beginner Item Shop.


    [Item Shop  Beginner-grade  Potions & Return Scrolls]<ol><li>Beginner Constitution Potion300 Coins</li><li>Beginner Mana Potion300 Coins</li><li>Beginner Cure Potion400 Coins</li><li>Beginner Safe Zone Return Scroll3000 Coins</li><li>Beginner Healing Potion400 Coins</li></ol>


    Cure and healing potions were slightly different. Cure potions were for treating illnesses, poisons, and abnormal statuses, whereas healing potions treated physical injuries.


    [1 Cure Potion purchased.]


    [1 Healing Potion purchased.]


    Hyukjin began to carefully pour them one by one into Sunhwas mouth.


    Please.


    Wake up.


    The beginner potion will be more than enough.


    With a beginner potion, it should be possible for her to make a full recovery.


    Wake up! Please.


    The berserker-mode Magic Troll was a powerful monster, but it was still a Tutorial-level monster, and the item Hyukjin was using now was one grade higher, a Beginner-level item.


    [10 Cure Potions purchased.]


    [-4000 Coins]


    [10 Healing Potions purchased.]


    [-4000 Coins]


    He only had 1,000 Coins left, but he didnt regret their loss.


    Please.


    He continued to pour them into her mouth.


    Wake up.


    After using around five potions, Sunhwa finally woke up.


    Are you okay?


    It was a relief. It was truly, truly, a relief.


    If not for Sunhwa


    If Sunhwa hadnt absorbed the hit for him, Hyukjins head might have been crushed by now. No, it <i>would </i>have been crushed. The detailed imagery hed gotten from Sixth Sense had drawn out his death all too clearly.


    He was alive thanks to Sunhwa. Also, before she took the blow, Sunhwa must have already known.


    That she could die from blocking it.


    Despite realizing that, she still extended her arm without a single second of hesitation, reaching for a fist swung by a monster over 2 metersrge.


    I owe her my life.


    Also, Hyukjin was certain nowhis talent was absolutely anything but ordinary. He hadnt seen it with his eyes, but he was able to see the movements of a higher-level monster, almost like he had a new eye. Only then did he remember the notices that had shed past.[Innate Ability, Sixth Sense, has been forcibly activated.]


    Innate ability I had something like that?


    Innate ability referred to the natural-born ability each yers body had. Hyukjin hadpletely memorized the definition of the term.


    Innate ability awakens in special circumstances and istent within each yer.


    This was literally the influence of talent. Despite having received an evaluation of [No Talent], the innate ability Sixth Sense activated within Hyukjin.


    Sunhwas voice interrupted his thoughts.


    Im alive?


    Yeah. You, youre quite something, yknow?


    He spoke as calmly as possible, as if nothing was wrong. That way, he could reduce the shock this little kid had to suffer, if only a little.


    Im alive.


    Sunhwa got up. She thought she would die right then and there, but she was alive. She saw the empty potion bottles strewn around her and could imagine just how she was brought back from the jaws of death.


    But you said youd throw me away if I became a burden.


    Youre barely past burden status. It was a shame to leave you behind.


    Sunhwa gave him a bright smile, unbefitting of someone who had juste back from death.


    I wasnt abandoned.


    Whether she was happy about that, or happy abouting back to life, she couldnt tell. Her eyes were slightly wet with tears. Hyukjin, who wasnt used to situations like this and didnt even know what to make of Sunhwas tears, awkwardly looked away and turned towards Senia, who was still watching in the same ce as before.


    The most urgent fires had been put out. Now, it was time to get what he was owed.


    Alright, then, list out the rewards now. The individual rewards are still left, right?


    He clearly remembered Senia saying, yer Kim Hyukjin. You have been recognized as the yer who hunted the Magic Troll, earlier.


    The System notice had been:[The general system reward, as well as the individual rewards sent through Intermediate Administrators, will be distributed to each yer.]


    He hadnt forgotten that. The reason Senia was still unable to leave was because she had to give out the individual rewards.


    Even though So Yoohyun was registered in the Hall of Fame, I might be the one getting the bulk of the rewards.


    That was probably the case.


    I will begin distributing the individual rewards, Senia said.


    Before receiving the rewards, Hyukjin said one more thing. About you raising the Item Shop grade for me


    What about it?


    You know we didnt write a contract, right?


    She had raised the Item Shop grade without writing up a contract. They had only made a verbal agreement, but in all actuality, a verbal contract had no meaning.


    T-Thats!


    Everything needed to be proven in documents. Having made such a basic mistake, Senias face stiffened, and the now-conscious Sunhwa was able to see that Hyukjin wasughing as wickedly as the devil himself.


    * * *


    When we first entered the 2nd floor of the D-Tower, I was level 15.


    Struggling to maintain as muchposure as possible, Senia gritted out, You have been given 3 level up points.


    Simply put, I was getting 3 level ups. They took effect immediately.


    [Status Window]


    Name: Kim Hyukjin (yer)


    Level: 18


    Title: [First Pioneer] [Excellent yer]


    Innate ability: [Sixth Sense]


    Strength: 17Intelligence: 17


    Agility: 23Perception: 17


    Constitution: 17Willpower: 17 (+30)


    Bonus stats: 6


    Random stats: 3


    Undistributed stats: 9


    My innate ability had been added to the status window.


    My current level is 18.


    Considering that the Tutorials level cap was 10, a level of 18 was something a new yer who had just finished the Tutorial Field could never hope to reach. In addition, I also received another three random stats. Even though they were supposed to be difficult to get, I had gotten them continuously.


    Im


    By now, I was really sure of it.


    Really a genius.


    The only problem was that I didnt know how long this genius wouldst. There had been a lot of yers who only burned brightly in the beginner period. They were called Rising Stars or Super Rookies, but they quickly faded from the public eye. It felt a little too early for me to be happy about being a genius.


    Also, the Excellent Hunter title has been upgraded.


    Originally, it was Excellent Hunter, but it was upgraded to Excellent yer.


    [Excellent yer]


    A title that is only granted in the Tutorial Field and can only be upgraded after hunting the Tutorial Fields Boss Monster. Applies to all hunted prey.<ol><li>20% additional damage.</li><li>+20% movement speed.</li><li>Ability to use the special skill Excellent Strikea medium chance to ignore the preys unique trait.</li><li>+10% EXP gain.</li><li></li></ol>


    The title effects were so astonishing that even I couldnt help but be shocked.


    A title like this was given not in some A-rank or higher dungeon, but the <i>Tutorial</i>?


    Additional damage. Increased movement speed. Ability to ignore unique traits. Increased EXP gain. A special skill. Each and every one of them were gems.


    Even though this is the very beginning?


    On top of the +10% EXP gain from this title, the title effect of First Pioneer was also in effect.


    [The First Pioneer]


    A glorious title given to one who pioneered a new domain.<ol><li>EXP +20%</li><li>Stacks with other titles.</li></ol>


    That meant I could level up 30% faster than others. Leveling up faster on its own wasnt necessarily a good thing. But the faster you leveled up, the faster you would grow, which meant you would be able to take firsts in everything.


    I know the future.


    I had the strategy guide in my head. Between the ability to take firsts and the knowledge to make that happen, I had everything.


    Who would have known that something like this was hidden in the Tutorial?


    To be honest, it didnt seem like the Tutorial was made for someone to gain these things. After all, to begin with, a low-level yer couldnt hunt a lycanthrope. It was impossible without resorting to tricks. So this stream of events was already impossible from that point onwards, at least originally.


    Three level ups, plus nine random stats. On top of that, a title upgrade. And that wasnt the end of the rewards. That alone could certainly be called a jackpot, but there was more.


    This is the real jackpot.


    I recalled the new individual reward I had just gotten.


    Earlier, back when I was in danger of dying to the Magic Troll and Sixth Sense was urgently activated, I heard this:


    [You have ovee the death sentence of Sixth Sense.]


    [A condition for the fusion of Sixth Sense has been fulfilled.]


    My innate ability, Sixth Sense, had undoubtedly warned me of death. No, it foresaw my death. But thanks to Sunhwa stepping in unexpectedly, I survived.[Fusion with the Tutorial Bonus or Open Beta Bonus is possible.]


    I had received two Open Beta Bonuses. One was the High Strength Elixir I used when fighting the Lycanthrope, which I got from the Courageous Lion King. The other was the Calm Observers Eye that was with me nearly from the very start of the Tutorial, given by the Nameless Observer.


    [High Strength Elixir.]


    [Calm Observers Eye.]


    The High Strength Elixir was already used up, so only Calm Observers Eye was left.


    Calm Observers Eye could be fused with Sixth Sense. I had heard of fusion before, but this only applied to Rankers of the highest level and wasnt something normal people knew much about. It was the sort of information you could maybe dig up by doing a lot of civil servant studying.


    So fusion also existed in the Tutorial.


    I had the thought that there might actually be a lot of secrets the popce didnt know about hidden within the Tutorial.[Will you approve the fusion of Sixth Sense and Calm Observers Eye?]


    I approved it. My heart began to race, and it felt like hot blood came rushing out from within my heart to shoot vitality all throughout my body. With a little exaggeration, it felt like steam was rising from my body.


    [Sixth Sense and Calm Observers Eye have begun to fuse.]


    [The fusion process is apanied by extreme pain.]


    [If you are unable to endure the pain, you will die.]


    At that moment, agony assaulted my heart.


    Argh!


    This fucking System. It should have told me this in advance.


    O-Oppa, whats wrong?


    I copsed, clutching my chest. Id never felt pain like this before. I didnt know exactly how to describe it, but it felt like my heart was boiling up, like each and every drop of blood in my body was boiling. I writhed, enduring the terrible feeling of my body being burned, like something enormous was piercing through my insides.


    UAAAGHHHH!


    My body screamed, heedless of what my mind willed.


    It hurt.


    It really fucking hurt. It was difficult to exin beyond it hurt, but the pain was so great I would rather die.


    It felt like something snapped, and I had no memory of what happened afterwards, which meant I probably lost consciousness.


    While unconscious, I faintly felt like I heard the words Fusion sessful, though it was like hearing something in a dream. In any case, I had the feeling I heard those words, but I didnt exactly remember.


    The moment I regained consciousness, I was greeted with a reality that was difficult to believe.


    No way!

 Chapter 17: Innate Ability Awakening (2)

    Chapter 17: Innate Ability Awakening (2)


    I faintly heard some notices.


    [Innate Ability Eye of Perception has been sessfully fused.]


    [Innate Ability Eye of Perception has awakened.]


    I began to see the world around me again, and I also heard notices. It seemed, without a doubt, that I was alive. My ears picked up a voice.


    What was a fellow who went to study doing instead of studying?


    That truly blunt voice was my older sisters, the same idiotic sister of mine who worked herself ragged in a superconductor factory trying to support me and ended up developing leukemia.


    Noona?


    TN: Noona is a familiar term used by a male to refer to an older female.


    My sister whipped around. As usual, she was the epitome of bluntness.


    Its fine as long as youre not dead.


    And then, she left the hospital room. I focused on the sounds around me, and as if to prove that clearing the Tutorial wasnt a dream, I clearly heard a notice.[Eye of Perception is active.]


    Innate ability. Eye of Perception.


    Calm Observers Eye and Sixth Sense fused and were reborn into a new ability called Eye of Perception. I had the feeling it was the biggest boon Id gotten from the Tutorial Field.


    Eye of Perception is


    I hadnt heard of it ten years ago. There was no Eye of Perception among the prominent Rankers and the countless innate abilities they boasted. The innate abilitytent within my body had awakened.


    First of all, I think its enhancing my senses to their limits.


    I could hear every minute sound from outside the hospital room. They were really tiny sounds, but my ears picked them up. That had to be the power of Eye of Perception. I focused and listened.


    Shoulda just gone and died if he was gonna die. Why make a person worry? someone said, before crying in full force. Outside the room door, my older sister was crouching and crying. It seemed she had left quickly on purpose so she could hide her crying face. She was making muffled <em>uwahh, uwahhhh</em> sounds, but the sobs went from rather pitiable to bordering on funny. I could only guess she was crying with tears and snot all over her face.


    Noona. Sorry, but I can hear everything.


    Thanks to Eye of Perception, I could hear every single thing. But the fascination about the fact I could hear such a minute sound came second. For some reason, my eyes began to redden.


    After hearing my sisters sharp voice, it finally struck me.


    Shes really alive.


    I had returned to the past, with my knowledge of the future intact, plus an innate ability of the highest level called Eye of Perception. Enhancing my senses wasnt the only thing Eye of Perception could do.


    [Unawakened]


    Name: Kim Ahyoung


    Age: 24


    State: Relieved / Happy / Worried


    Disposition: Self-Sacrificing / Brusque / Loving


    Summary: Devoted tsundere<ul><li>


    Is unawakened.</li><li>


    The state/disposition/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li>


    Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    The summary seemed a little strange, but it wasnt really wrong. Devoted tsundere was right, after all.


    Noona. You dont have to go to the superconductor factory anymore.


    No, it wasnt that she didnt have to go, but that I <em>wouldnt</em> let her go. Supporting her foolish little brother was something she didnt have to do anymore.


    Ill make it so you can live infort.


    I couldnt be a hundred percent sure, but there was no doubt that my talent wasnt the same as before. I saw with my own eyes that I had talent and skills even greater than So Yoohyuns. As long as nothing happened, as long as there werent any unexpected variables, there was a high chance that I could even be a Ranker. If that happened, our family would certainly be able to live well, without worries.


    I filled my lungs, then belted out, Noona! Buy me a lot of honey! I want to eat honey! A ton of it!


    My sister, crying outside, muttered, Whats that idiot going on about? She got to her feet. Eye of Perception captured every sound she made.


    Honey my ass. Does he wanna get beat up with honey, seriously.


    She walked off, probably to buy me honey. I said I wanted to eat a lot of it, so she would probably go all out buying it.


    I heard the sound of someone other than my sister sobbing.


    Mom. That one word made my eyes well with tears, too. Dont cry. Your son isnt dead.


    Mom wasnt able to stop her tears. Even though I was a son without a single redeeming feature, an eternal civil servant student, I was still her son.


    My mom wasnt the only one next to my bed. There was also the kid who had helped me to the very end and called emergency services for me as soon as the Tutorial Field dissipated, Kang Sunhwa.


    Oppaaaaaaaa!!!


    Crying loudly, Sunhwa came bounding over to me as Iid on the hospital bed. She squeezed me tightly with her small body, which I found rather ufortable.


    Oi, oi, hurry and get off me.


    Im so d. I thought you died.


    I snorted to myself, looking at the girl who had no intention of getting off me. Telling her to get off just made her stick even closer. She must have really thought that I had died, and that must have scared her. Wed only known each other for a few days, but she was already this fond of me.


    Though, well, we did save each others lives.


    As far as rtionships went, ours was indeed rather special. Wed gone through life and death together, so it wasnt surprising wed be fond of each other. Of course, I wasnt seeing her as a woman or anything like that. It was more like looking at a dear niece.


    Hey, you smell like sweat.


    Only then did the clingy Sunhwa scramble backwards. I felt like I could breathe again.


    I-I-I showered yesterday!


    But you still smell?


    I-I-I dont smell, okay?!


    Eww, the smell.


    I squeezed my nose shut. Sunhwas face reddened, and she bolted out the door that my sister had left through.


    In any case


    However things turned out, I had returned to the past. Here, in this ce that had be my reality, my mom was here, and so was my sister. There was also Sunhwa, who had saved my life and had likewise been saved by me.


    This time


    I would live well.


    * * *


    * * *


    So Yoohyun, who received the Tutorial Ender title and was registered in the Hall of Fame, became a famous figure overnight. He appeared multiple times on TV and was even called the Tutorials Strongest. He was introduced as the most talented man in Korea.


    <em>Thats not true. I was simply lucky.</em>


    So Yoohyun replied with those words. Everyone thought he was just being modest, but So Yoohyun was dead serious.


    The true Tutorial Ender isnt me.


    The moment his consciousness began to trickle back, he saw the back of two people. One young girl, and one man. His eyesight was fuzzy, so he didnt get a clear look, but he was sure of it in his mind.


    Its the man I saw in Cheonggyecheon.


    There was no doubt. It was that man.


    Come to think of it, what was his name again?


    They hadnt exchanged names.


    Did that man die?


    That man hade up to the 2nd floor of the Gwanghwamun D-Tower and tried to save the others, ultimately saving only Yoohyun before fleeing. The Magic Troll had gone off in hot pursuit. Yoohyun didnt think there was much of a chance hed survived.


    To the press, he said the following:


    <em>There was a true hero in the Tutorial. I simply benefited from his kindness.</em>


    Yoohyun only said that much, no more and no less. He judged that if that man was alive, he would show himself on his own initiative. It could be disrespectful to run his mouth off when that person hadnt stepped forward yet.


    Could he be alive?


    Of course, he didnt know if that hero was alive, or if he was dead.


    If hes alive


    If he was alive, then he was Yoohyuns life savior. Yoohyun owed that man his life, owed that man a favor that he absolutely had to repay.


    I hope youre alive, somewhere, thought Yoohyun from the bottom of his heart. He hoped there would be a chance for him to repay the favor.


    * * *


    One month passed.


    Slimes, neutral monsters that even civilians could kill if they put their minds to it, were amon sight along the road. It became daily life for local kids to y around with slimes. Within one month, the world became prepared to ept the existence of monsters, and concepts like yer and ying began to take root.


    Difficulty: low.


    For the time being, it would be safe other than the dungeons or gates. At most, only monsters like City Foxes or City Wolves would show up. That being said, even City Foxes and City Wolves could be pretty dangerous for civilians.


    <em>Two injuries and one death havee about from City Wolves</em>


    Incidents caused by City Foxes or City Wolves urred nearly every day. They were conditionally passive monsters, so they wouldnt attack if they werent messed with, but people dying or getting injured because they provoked them for no good reason wasmonce.


    <em>The authorities immediately sent police to suppress the City Wolves</em>


    Foxes and wolves didnt have shields because they were such elementary monsters.


    In time, monsters that cant be killed with scientific technology will start showing up.


    That would happen in one year. By then, the yers Association would be established, yers would have formed guilds among themselves, and the world would be more or less used to the System. From that point on, the world would begin to change again, little by little.


    Until that happens, Ill make full preparations.


    I would use my knowledge of the future to the fullest, in order to live differently from the past. To live not as an eternal civil servant student, but as an upright and sessful person.


    Todays date was the 7th of June.


    Seoul Station.


    I took Sunhwa with me to Seoul Station. It was around 6 in the evening. Because people were getting off work and heading home, Seoul Station was extremely crowded.


    Seoul Station, Exit 2.


    Here, a small gate would form, a gate connected to the Seoul Station Dungeon. The grade would be indicated as . In other words, it had no grade. For conveniences sake, I called it a beginner dungeon.


    People began to murmur.


    Huh? Whats that?


    Some people even screamed. No wonder, because near Exit 2, something akin to a ckish red shimmer began to spread out in the air. The gate was around 2 metersrge, at mostit wasnt a very big one. People kept their distance from it.


    Monsters wont pop out, will they?


    People hadnt yet forgotten that day in Jongno, the fateful beginning of the Cataclysm. It was the site of a terrible disaster where only 5,000 out of 150,000 people survived. Normal life was just beginning to resume, but another strange thing appeared before they could even fully get past the trauma of that day. It was only natural they would be apprehensive.


    But the world will change too much for you to be surprised by something like this.


    These people would also have to adapt in the future, to the new System and the new world. Those who werent able to adapt would be eliminated. Just like me in the past.


    Lets go.


    I headed towards the gate with Sunhwa. The gate was clickable.


    [Seoul Station Dungeon Gate]


    The gate to Seoul Station Dungeon.


    There was no particr exnation. Perhaps because a gate had appeared, I heard the sirens of police carsing from afar. The police were probablying over to check the situation.


    Itll be troublesome if the policee.


    It would be best to go in quickly.


    [Only yers can utilize the gate.]


    [At least seven yers are rmended for this dungeon.]


    [Required level: 10]


    Both Sunhwa and I were yers, and we were over level 10.


    Were going in.


    I moved a few steps forward, and then, the world around me changed.


    [You have entered Seoul Station Dungeon.]


    [Channel #19207 has been opened.]


    [Guardians have begun to enter.]


    There, I was greeted with a familiar face, an Intermediate Administrator so beautiful it couldnt be put into words, with a pair of wings behind her back. It was, in our worlds terms, Streamer Senia.


    With an expressionless face, Senia said, At least seven yers are rmended for this dungeon.


    I ignored her, starting to walk forward.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. I offer this warning as an Intermediate Administrator. At least seven yers should enter. Do not leave the Safe Zone.


    Howe?


    Tackling this dungeon with two people is dangerous.


    The manual encourages this dungeon be yed by at least seven yers.


    For a very brief moment, I waited. During this time, there were probably many Guardians streaming into Senias Channel #19207.


    This should be long enough.


    After waiting a moment, I spoke to Senia. Or rather, I spoke to the Guardians watching down on us for their amusement.


    I said it before, didnt I?


    Said what?


    That I would show you how I y.


    If that was the way one had to adapt to this world, if that was the path to my sess


    Ill show you.


    I walked forward.


    How I adapt to this world.


    At the same time, I heard a new notice.

 Chapter 18: Nightmare

    Chapter 18: Nightmare[The Whispering Devil has begun to show an interest in you.]


    The Lady of the Scales, the Nameless Observer, and now the Whispering Devil, had an interest in me.


    Who is it?


    It wasnt a name I remembered, but somehow, I had a bad feeling I couldnt quite exin.


    Whatever.


    It wasnt like I knew all the Guardians, anyway. For now, drawing the attention of a Guardian could be seen as a pretty good thing. Whether or not it could be of profit to me depended on how I controlled them and how I acted.


    A lot of Guardians must have joined the stream.


    Countless anonymous Guardians had to be watching Channel #19207. Since Sunhwa and I were the only yers that had entered the Seoul Station Dungeon, the spotlight had nowhere to go but on us.[Eye of Perception is active.]


    Information began to flood into me via Eye of Perception. The world was sketched out in detail in my head, like I was seeing it without my eyes.


    This is a dungeon? Sunhwa asked hesitantly.


    The Seoul Station Dungeon was generally dark. It gave off the feeling of a dark cave. It was considerably humid, rather chilly, and water dripped from the ceiling. I nodded.


    Its just like what I saw on Youtube.


    In the future, this dungeon would be the ce countless yers would frequent to umte experience, a Tutorial Dungeon in the true sense of the phrase. I fixed my eyes on Sunhwa.


    [yer]


    Name: Kang Sunhwa


    Age: 14


    Level: 15


    ss:


    Guardian:


    State: Lonely / Fearful / Trusting / Reliant


    Disposition: Neutral / Curious


    Summary: Weak Brocon<ul><li><ul><li>ss has not yet been selected.</li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li>Guardian has not yet been selected.</li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li>The state/disposition/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li>Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul></li></ul>


    I grinned. Shes already level 15?


    I thought there might be a somewhat weird trait in there, but I decided to ignore it. Somehow, both my sister and Sunhwa seemed to have something abnormal in their summary.


    With a level like that, she did great leveling up.


    The fact she had raised her level to 15 despite there only being monsters like Slimes, City Foxes, and City Wolves in Korea meant that she had worked pretty hard to progress her ying. It was impressive she could raise her level that much by grinding low-level monsters.


    I said to Sunhwa, You remember everything I told you before, right?


    She nodded. I took the lead and began to walk forward. Streamer Senia followed in a half-transparent state. Her t expression couldnt be read, but she certainly looked unsatisfied. It seemed she was worried her good quality contentmewould kick the bucket here.


    Shes not worrying about me. I didnt delude myself. Shes worrying about the <i>product </i>that is me.


    There was no need to bother about Senia. In any case, I had no intention of dying. All I was thinking about was how I could sell the product that was me better.


    Seven forked pathways.


    When you turned into each forked path, that path would be activated. The Seoul Station Dungeon was a dungeon with a set aggregate difficulty. When all seven split paths were activated, the degree of danger would also be divided into seven. Put simply, if you divided a difficulty of 7 among 7 people with 7 paths, each path would only have a difficulty of 1.


    In the opposite case, if you only choose one path


    The difficulty of 7 would be concentrated on one path. That was how it would normally be if you yed the dungeon the regr way. However, the Seoul Station Dungeon had been cleared by countless yers, and even the Hidden Piece lurking within had been publicized.


    Oppa. I see the forked pathways there.


    I saw the seven caves. They looked like snakes opening their jaws wide.


    Wait here.


    [The Lady of the Scales is watching over you with interest.]


    [The Whispering Devil expresses intense interest in you.]


    [The Nameless Observer is earnestly observing you.]


    I went into the first cave to the very left. When I did so, a golden magic array appeared on the cave floor.[Seoul Station Dungeon 1st Forked Path, Neps Path, has been activated.]


    Then, I immediately left, doing the same with the other paths.


    [Seoul Station Dungeon 2nd Forked Path, Dyugos Path, has been activated.]


    [Seoul Station Dungeon 3rd Forked Path, Dnshas Path, has been activated.]


    [Seoul Station Dungeon 7th Forked Path, Lakits Path, has been activated.]


    I activated every path. That was all I needed to do. There was more to dungeon clearing than forging straight ahead. You had to sometimes advance, sometimes retreat, and when necessary, roll to the side. It was possible to freely enter and leave the forked pathways. There was also no condition saying that all paths had to be simultaneously cleared. A clear like this, where each path was tackled one by one, was also just as valid.


    Now, the difficulty of each path was set to 1. I walked to the 1st Forked Path, Neps Path, and stood in front of it.


    Lets go.


    * * *


    So Yoohyun had the hunch that this thing called ying was not a one-time event. The Tutorial Field appeared, and Intermediate Administrators and Guardians showed up in the world, as well as monsters.


    He made the bold decision to quit his job at the financialpany where he had just been hired. He did so in order to devote himself to ying. Some people ridiculed his decision, many of them cursing him for giving up on a stable and high-paying job.


    However, So Yoohyun could imagine the future ahead.


    As I thought itll keep going.


    If weak monsters existed, then so did strong ones. Strong monsters would drop better items. Right now, just catching Slimes, City Foxes, and City Wolves would drop things like Iron Swords and Low Constitution Potions.


    Even just those things have a pretty good effect.


    Monster drops were of great use in real life. For example, the Low Constitution Potion boasted far better efficacy than most drugs used for surgeries. If such a strong item was dropped from a shoddy monster under level 10, what kinds of things woulde from even stronger monsters?


    Of course, far better things would drop from them. The world was faced with change, and Yoohyun decided to step in time with that change, to quickly adapt. That was his decision.


    Thats a dungeon.


    At Seoul Station Exit 2, there was a dungeon. The Intermediate Administrator who focused their streaming on Yoohyun, Neptune, snickered.


    You need at least seven people for that one. Mm. There are already two people inside, so only four more people need toe.


    A few yers approached. They appeared to be survivors from the Tutorial Field. In the one month that had passed, several pieces of information were spread across the world. This information was ryed by the Intermediate Administrators.


    [If a dungeon is not cleared within a certain amount of time after its formation, it will copse.]


    [Monsters will break free from copsed dungeons.]


    [That is called a Dungeon Break.]


    [The people who can clear dungeons are those who have yer Qualifications.]


    Policemen had begun to seal off Seoul Station Exit 2. Sealing it off was expected, since it wasnt yet known whether the gate was dangerous or not. That was for the safety of the popce.


    Someone walked towards the police. Their feet floated about 30 centimetres off the floor. They were walking, but not on the ground. They were definitely not human.


    Jeez. How annoying, muttered that blue-skinned being with a horn on his head as he approached the police. Are you guys gonna take responsibility for my daily keep? Whyre you blocking my stream, huh?


    He lifted a policeman by the throat.


    G-Gugh! L-Let him go! One of his fellow policemen whipped out a taser gun. I-If you dont let go, Ill fire at once!


    The strange being grinned in response, then rotated his neck twice in a grotesque fashion to stare at the policeman.


    Try it.


    And then, the neck of the policeman in his hands broke with a <i>crack, </i>dying immediately. The people crowding around screamed as they began to run.


    You insects are seriously noisy.


    Red marbles were formed at the tip of his finger, and they scattered into the air. The marbles ricocheted like bouncy balls, and wherever they touched, mes sprouted.


    So what Im saying is, why butt in where you dont belong? You insects.


    The policeman who had taken out his taser gun was no exception. His body was set aze, and he rolled around on the ground, screaming for mercy.


    Seoul Station Exit 2 became true pandemonium. Several dozen people at the very least were burned to a crisp on the spot, and countless more fled while pushing and trampling each other in a frenzy. In very little time, only yers and Intermediate Administrators were left in the vicinity.


    Now, then. Why dont you start ying now, you yer bastards?


    So Yoohyun did not flee. He was someone who had survived Jongnos Cataclysm. He was used to chaos of this degree. He secretly clenched his fists hard. He knew that Intermediate Administrators nameit was Chris. He also knew the name of the yer Chris was with.


    Seo Joohwan.


    They had met briefly in the Tutorial Field. Seo Joohwan was hunting a goblin, and Yoohyun realized then that the man was insane. He still vividly remembered Joohwans look of relishing killing and cackling while covered in blood. It could be said that Seo Joohwan and Chris were a well-matched yer and Intermediate Administrator pair.


    Joohwan made a gesture of greeting with his eyes. Didnt think Id meet you here, Mr. Tutorial Ender.


    Everyone who followed Yoohyun in the Tutorial Field had died. However, five of the people who had followed Joohwan had survived. A total of seven yers had gathered in front of the gate.


    A man behind Joohwan shrugged and said, Hes the Tutorial Ender, after all. He must have smelled the money. Because dungeons and monsters will change the world in the future.


    Policemen and civilians had died here, but the yers were not greatly shaken. This was a world they had already experienced. They had also been a part of the event where 145,000 people had died.


    Yoohyun thought for a moment. His Intermediate Administrator, Neptune, had also rmended going in with seven people.


    Do I have no choice?


    He didnt really want to mesh with these people, but he didnt have a choice. They were survivors of the Tutorial Field and held quite a lot of strength. They would definitely be of help in clearing the dungeon.


    Steeling himself, he said, Lets make a party and go inside.


    * * *


    Kang Sunhwa was still not as used to ying as Kim Hyukjin.


    O-Oppa. Theyre too big. Arent they too strong?


    Dont worry. They only look strong on the outside.


    What they were referring to was apletely ck cow-shaped monster.ck Yak LVL 12


    The ck Yak was an animal monster with arge body and great strength. It had a habit of running forward and plowing into its opponent when excited, and that attack was so powerful it could kill higher-level yers in mere moments.


    <i>Mooooooooo!!!</i>


    Three ck Yaks charged towards Hyukjin. After dodging slightly to the side, he sliced off the horn of a ck Yak with his Iron Sword. At the same time, he ran up the side of the cave and got onto another ck Yaks back.


    <i>Moooooo!</i>


    The ck Yak fiercely resisted, but Hyukjin didnt fall off. Squeezing with both legs, he raised his sword and plunged it down.


    <i>Splurt!</i>


    The Iron Sword went straight into the top of the ck Yaks head. It copsed with a thump, and Hyukjin sliced off its horn.


    Wha?


    Shock shed through Sunhwas eyes. T-Two in one go.


    Each and every movement Hyukjin made was as fluid as one smooth motion. Two ck Yaks fell over on the spot.


    After jumping lightly off the corpse of the ck Yak he had so swiftly dispatched, Hyukjin shot forward towards the one that had stopped in ce after its charge, his movements as swift as an arrow.


    <i>Slice.</i>


    Another horn was cut off.


    [ck Yaks have been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [12 Coins acquired.]


    Sunhwa said to Hyukjin sourly, Oppa. Um About those movements you made just now. They were a bit strange. Is that something everyone can do?


    What do you mean?


    I felt it while ying outside, but Ive never seen anyone move like you, oppa. I also saw Tutorial survivors, and theres no one like oppa.


    That so?


    Hyukjin had seen a lot of yers on Youtube, so he didnt think too hard about it. Everyone out there right now were low-level yers who hadnt even advanced yet anyway. Of course a low-level couldnt move that well. He had seen the future, so he considered his movements to be just so-so.


    How in the world are you doing that?


    Sunhwa saw it with her own two eyes, but it didnt seem real. He was almost like a beast born to y. Thats how it looked to the 14-year-old Kang Sunhwa.


    Hm, I guess


    Hyukjin nced at Senia. He knew his words would be streamed to the Guardians, too.


    You just have to work hard.


    Work hard?


    Yeah. As hard as your desire not to regret it. Putting your all in every moment.


    Hyukjins words were sincere. He no longer wanted to regret anything. He wanted to live differently this time. He was undoubtedly speaking from his heart, but a flicker of doubt appeared in Sunhwas eyes for the first time. Was hard work really enough? To be able to move like oppa?


    [The Nameless Observer is silent.]


    [The Lady of the Scales is satisfied with your response.]


    [The Whispering Devil is disgusted by your response.]


    The young, 14-year-old Sunhwa balled her fists. She doubted Hyukjin for a moment, but she still trusted him wholeheartedly on a fundamental level.


    I will also!


    She thought Hyukjin had to be putting in an incredible amount of effort somewhere out of her sight. She felt the weight of an adult from his words just now. As hard as your desire not to regret it. Those words felt heavy to her, and she felt just as much trust as the weight of those words.


    Ill work hard.


    Something like vague optimism, the hope that she could be like her oppa if she worked hard sprouted within her. She dreamt.


    The two of them continued to hunt, and after a while, Hyukjin smiled widely.


    It finally came out.


    Something dropped, and that thing was a sparkling item. It was the item Hyukjin had been looking for.


    Oppa, whats that?

 Chapter 19: Nightmare (2)

    Chapter 19: Nightmare (2)


    This ce, the first forked path, was called Neps Path.


    In the Tutorial Dungeons setting, Neps was the name of one of the first gods, and a ring previously cherished by that god dropped in the first forked path. It had a random chance to drop. If you were lucky, it could drop after one kill, but it could also take a long time.


    In any case, the total time it takes to collect all seven items is about the same.


    If it took a long time in the 1st forked path, it would takeparatively less time in the 2nd.


    This one was average, I guess?


    It didnt feel particrly slow or fast.[You have acquired Neps Ring.]


    Now that we had the ring, we were finished here. I turned without hesitation.


    Oppa. There are more ck Yaks in the corner over there We dont have to hunt them?


    Nope. ck Yaks dont give much EXP.


    The greatest efficiency in the least amount of timethat was the basic principle of ying. ck Yaks werent all that cost-effective. They werent very difficult to kill, but the EXP they gave was too lowpared to the time it took.


    Lets go. Were going to the 2nd path.


    The order wasnt really set in stone, but there was an implicit clearing method that yers agreed on. Countless people had cleared the Seoul Station Dungeon, and a strategy had formed naturally ording to their experiences. Normally, when soloing this dungeon, you went in order from path 1 to 7.


    We left the first path and went into the second.


    [You have entered the Seoul Station Dungeon 2nd Forked Path, Dyugos Path.]


    * * *


    So Yoohyun and Seo Joohwans group entered the 1st forked path. Joohwan made a sound of admiration.


    Wowie


    There were ck Yak bodies everywhere. Seeing as only their horns were sliced off, it seemed their horns were their weak spot. There were a ton of dead ck Yaks, at least thirty of them.


    It looks like someone has already passed through this ce, someone remarked.


    All the way down Oh, there are some ck Yaks over there.


    There were still ck Yaks left. What did that mean?


    I dont see any dead yers. Thats gotta mean they ran away.


    As far as they knew, only two yers had entered ahead of them. It wasnt strange that they had fled after hunting this many ck Yaks; it was possible they had run low on stamina.


    They definitely ran away, said Joohwan with certainty. How about kicking things off by killing those guys to stretch our bodies a little?


    The group began to fight in their own way.


    * * *


    They kept hunting ck Yaks in the 2nd path as well. In Dyugos Path, the item Dyugos Ne dropped.[You have acquired Dyugos Ne.]


    Hyukjin shrugged. We had good luck this time.


    They only had to kill four ck Yaks before the item dropped. Sunhwa had picked up on his intent, and upon seeing him pick up the item, she quipped, Are we going to the 3rd path now?


    Killing ck Yaks wasnt the important thing. Getting those items was what was important. She gained an understanding regarding key items.


    Lets go.[You have entered the Seoul Station Dungeon 3rd Forked Path, Dnshas Path.]


    Slightly different monsters appeared on Dnshas Path. They looked basically the same as ck Yaks, but they were purple in color. These Purple Yaks were about 1-2 levels higher than ck Yaks.


    Sunhwa. You take the lead.


    M-Me?


    Yeah.


    Sunhwa inched forward. Hyukjin walked behind the petite girl. Just then, something came hurtling their way.


    Kyaa!


    Something crashed into Sunhwas forehead with a ck before falling to the ground.


    Its alright. You wont die.


    W-What was that just now?


    A horn.


    A <i>horn</i>?


    Yeah. A horn shot by a Purple Yak. Theyre basically ranged attackers. That was why he put Sunhwa in the front. Youre sturdier than me, so its better for you to get hit than me.


    O-Oppa! Kyak!


    Dont worry. See, youre not dying.


    It was true. The Purple Yak horns couldnt damage Sunhwa at all.


    More Purple Yak horns came shooting towards them. Still notpletely used to ying, Sunhwa screamed every time, even though there was zero impact to her body. After a while, the two of them heard a notice.


    [Purple Yaks have been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [13 Coins acquired.]


    Sunhwa was somewhat ck-jawed. She simply stood and took some hits, but the Purple Yak croaked all on its own. Without understanding the reason, she continued walking forward and spotted the Purple Yak bodies on the ground.


    These guys die after shooting their horns twice.


    Realization dawned on Sunhwa. E-Even so, did you just use me as a shield?


    Yeah. Youre a tank, arent you?


    S-Still.


    Well, even if you die, its you whos kicking the bucket and not me, so whatever, Hyukjin said, cracking a joking smile. Right then. Go forth, my amazing Miss Tank.


    To yers, things like age or gender werent important. Only their ss, stats, Guardian, and skills were important. Sunhwa had far more tanking ability than Hyukjin. If each yer had a total score, his number would be far higher, but she would have the higher score when it came to damage tanking ability.


    Surprisingly, Sunhwa seemed to be moved by his offhandment.


    Im amazing?


    More than expected, I guess?


    She looked happy for a moment, but her expression soon turned strange as she mumbled, Its true Im a tanker, but


    She really wasnt used to it. This oppa who used her, a 14-year-old, very petite kid, as a shield could she really believe in him? Of course, she <i>did</i> believe him. She <i>did, </i>but still, something about it made her feel a little unsure.


    Hyukjin chuckled. Get your head on straight. Youre not just a 14-year-old kid. This is a dungeon, and youre a yer.


    When ying, everyone had to do what they were good at. He didnt put Sunhwa in the front just because he didnt want to get hit by Purple Yak horns. He had recognized Sunhwas talent early on, and as long as he didnt intend on throwing her away and would continue to walk forward with her in the future, she had to get used to experiences like this. Hyukjin spoke jokingly in order to help her rx, but this was absolutely not a joke. In fact, making her take the lead like this was also a good thing for Sunhwas growth.


    I may know all the strategies, but theres no doubt about it. ying is dangerous.


    With the danger came a need for everyone to be faithful to their own roles. Rather, they had to be <i>good</i> at their roles. That was the correct thing to say.[You have acquired Dnshas Bracelet.]


    Dnshas Bracelet was the item that dropped from the 3rd forked path, Dnshas Path. They had collected the items from three out of the seven paths.


    Were just leaving the rest of the Purple Yaks, right?


    Yeah.


    It seems like the Purple Yaks give a lot of EXP, though


    I know.


    Purple Yaks were certainly foes that gave a lot of EXP. With a good tank like Sunhwa around, killing them was also easy.


    Is there a reason why youre leaving them?


    That went without saying.


    Do you think were the only ones who came in here?


    Sunhwa didnt understand what those words meant. In her eyes, Hyukjin was an adult who knew a great many things, and she thought it was only natural for her not to understand all the words of an adult.


    Hyukjin shrugged and walked back.


    We have to leave those guys here to slow down the small fry.


    Because if the past repeated itself, Seo Joohwan had definitely entered the dungeon.


    * * *


    So Yoohyun and Seo Joohwans group killed all of the ck Yaks in the 1st fork.


    Theres nothing special around.


    Kim Hyukjin had already acquired Neps Ring. The only reward that could be gained now from the 1st forked path were the EXP and Coins gained from hunting ck Yaks.


    Joohwan scowled. Theyve got frickin good defense, but give shit EXP.


    Yoohyun nodded. The cost-effectiveness of ck Yaks was the worst.


    If we hadnt known that the horns were their weak spot, we might have had a really tough time.


    Still, as expected of the Tutorial Ender, youre indeed outrageous. If someone like me were to get hit by that fist of yours, theyd die in one hit, said Joohwan, making idle chatter.


    I think weve killed everything here, so shall we go to another path?


    Not a single person even thought of trying the kind of ying Hyukjin had shown, where he was basically soloing. After all, they had seen the horrors of Jongno not too long ago. Because they remembered the Tutorial Field, where 145,000 out of 150,000 had perished, neither Yoohyun nor Joohwan were able to consider moving on their own.[You have entered the Seoul Station Dungeon 2nd Forked Path, Dyugos Path.]


    There werent many bodies in the 2nd fork, only four. The fact there were some dead monsters meant that someone had hunted here, but there were still many living ck Yaks. However, there was no yer body. It was at this point that Yoohyun began to feel that something was a little strange.


    What is it?


    Did the yer who was in the 1st path go into the 2nd one before running again? It was difficult to figure out. While he was thinking, Joohwan said, For now, lets catch em.


    They caught all the ck Yaks remaining in the 2nd pathway. Meanwhile, unbeknownst to them, Hyukjin acquired the Athenias Ne from the 4th fork, Athenias Path, and the Zeniths Cudgel from the 5th fork, Zeniths Path.


    When Hyukjin and Sunhwa were in the 6th path, Yoohyun and Joohwans party went into the 3rd. There, both Yoohyun and Joohwan finally caught on.


    They didnt run away; they left them, said Joohwan, scowling.


    I think so as well.


    There must be key items for clearing the dungeon.


    Joohwan felt slightly incensed. He couldnt be sure whether the mystery yer left the monsters here on purpose or not, but he felt a spike of irritation knowing that there was someone stepping far ahead of him.


    Who the hell is it?


    He was with the Tutorial Ender, So Yoohyun, so who would dare to step ahead? While leaving only small fry for them to deal with, no less.


    Yoohyun looked serious. Lets just leave the monsters and go to the other paths.


    While they were discussing, Hyukjin got the Victorias Shield from the 6th path. Yoohyun and Joohwans party followed right on his heels.


    In the end, they all came face to face in the 7th forked path.


    * * *


    Even before we entered the 7th forked path, I knew other people woulde looking for us.


    That was slower than I expected.


    To be honest, I thought we would meet at around the 6th path, but they were a little slower. They were certainly still beginner yers.


    Figures. From their point of view, this is allpletely new to them.


    They were different from me, who had the strategy guides memorized by heart. Id seen the Seoul Station Dungeon strategy video on Youtube probably close to thirty times. From the very beginning, our starting points were different.


    Sunhwa and I met the other yers in the 7th fork.


    Fist King So Yoohyun.


    I immediately activated Eye of Perception.


    [yer]


    Name: So Yoohyun


    Age: 20


    Level: 17


    ss:


    Guardian:


    State: dness / Surprise


    Disposition: Neutral / Just / Generous / Narrow-minded


    Summary: Debt-Repaying Magpie<ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">ss has not yet been selected.</li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">Guardian has not yet been selected.</li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">The state/disposition/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul></li></ul>


    His level was 17, a very outstanding number. There was something other than his level that shocked me.


    Whats with his disposition? Neutral and just were fine, but How can he be both generous and narrow-minded at the same time?


    Was Eye of Perception broken? The results were clear, but I didnt quite understand. I didnt actually think Eye of Perceptions analysis was wrong. It must be that when it came to some things, So Yoohyun could be very generous, and in others, narrow-minded. His summary was Debt-Repaying Magpie, in reference to the Korean folktale of the magpie that gave its life to repay its debt to the farmer who saved its chicks. It wasnt a bad summary.


    So Yoohyun isnt the important one right now.


    That man who had a strange smile on his lips while looking at me, I knew him.


    He still looks young, but


    He was as young as the Fist King.


    [yer]


    Name: Seo Joohwan


    Age: 21


    Level: 16


    ss:


    Guardian:


    State: Lust / Displeasure


    Disposition: Evil / Violent / Fake


    Summary: Violent Pedophile<ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">ss has not yet been selected.</li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">Guardian has not yet been selected.</li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">The disposition and traits/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul></li></ul>


    We were still in the early stages of ying, but even though he had juste out of the Tutorial Field, in my eyes, he looked rotten to the core.


    So we meet here. I had expected it. Seo Joohwan.


    Later, there would be a massive organization called Nightmare. It went by the alias Demon King Army. Seo Joohwan would be one of the famous lieutenants of that Demon King Army.


    What a disgusting summary.


    He was the first evil alignment yer I was meeting, though he hadntpletely ckened yet. Even so, I needed to exercise utmost caution when dealing with him.


    If Seo Joohwan moves as I expect


    It could just so happen that today, I would have to fight him to the death. I had already foreseen this situation and hade prepared.


    If we truly end up fighting the one who will put their life on the line wont be me, but you, Seo Joohwan.


    Just then, I saw him opening his mouth. His first words were rather unexpected.

 Chapter 20: Mandra

    Chapter 20: Mandra


    The Demon King Army.


    The brutal atrocities theymitted were indescribable. This was slightly off topic, but the eight Heroes representing Korea earned their hero titles while confronting the Demon King Army. Most of their heroic tales originated from battles against the Demon King Army.


    In other words, the Demon King Army is strong enough to resist and fight those heroes.


    In any case, it was valid to say that having be a lieutenant of the Demon King Army, hed run the gamut of all sorts of despicable deeds, though that hadnt happened yet.


    Hello! Didnt think there was a senior here.


    Seo Joohwan made a rather polite bow. It was unexpected, but I understood after a beat.Disposition: Fake


    Fake was unmistakably mixed into his disposition. He greeted me with a good-natured expression, but I was determined not to let my guard down.


    On the way to the 7th fork, we saw that the monsters had already been killed. Was that you, senior?


    Yes.


    I looked at So Yoohyun. He was blinking at me in a daze, obviously very surprised.


    You were al


    I cut him off. Nice to meet you. You must be So Yoohyun, the Tutorial Ender. I saw you on TV.


    Uh I Ah Yes. I mean, yes, thank you. Youre too kind. Im truly humbled and dont know what to say.


    After floundering for a short moment at my nice to meet you, Yoohyun promptly expressed his modesty. It seemed he really meant it when he said youre too kind.


    However, the look in his eyes towards me spoke volumes. They were filled with goodwill. I could feel through Eye of Perception that his look went beyond goodwill, almost into adoration. Those were Yoohyuns sincere feelings. The Debt-Repaying Magpie summary truly suited him to a T.


    Wevee as support, Seo Joohwan said. Lets work together.


    I stared at Seo Joohwan. I wonder about that. Youve seen the other paths already, Im sure?


    Sunhwa and I had cleared most of the monsters in the forks. We had left the rest of the monsters simply because we didnt need them.


    Seo Joohwan was struck speechless for a moment. Thats true. Youre doing perfectly fine on your own already.


    Yes.


    But couldnt you achieve a slightly more desirable clear with our help? This ce isnt a dungeon with a set owner, anyway.


    He was being roundabout, but what he was implying was, Youre not the owner either, so you cant refuse us.


    Right, Seo Joohwan was one of the first people to assert that dungeons had owners, I thought. Later dungeons fell under the possession of individual guilds. They taxed things like the items and Coins that were obtained from the dungeons at their own discretion, solely on the basis that they owned the dungeon. Later on, wars were even waged for dungeons. The Demon King Armymitted murder for them without reserve.


    I think it will be fine if everyone ys on their own. However, theres an item Im looking for. The Guardians said they wanted it.


    I sold off the Guardians.


    [The Nameless Observer expresses their misgivings.]


    [The Lady of the Scales expresses her disappointment.]


    [The Whispering Devil is happy.]


    The Guardians didnt really like it when their names were used in vain. However, I had no choice. I couldnt just carelessly give off the I know everything feeling. This was the easiest road avable to me.


    Is the Whispering Devil a pervert?


    I did something Guardians usually didnt like, but the Whispering Devil was happy about it.


    Id also dly y with everyone. But I would like to ask that if an item bearing the name of this path, Lakit, appears, that you concede it to me. Of course, I will fullypensate you.


    So Yoohyun and Seo Joohwan seemed interested in the item I was looking for. Joohwan asked, An item bearing the name Lakit? Did other items like that appear in the other paths, as well?


    I expected a conversation like this toe about even beforeing here. It was all a part of the picture I was drawing. There was no need to lie, and even if I did, it would be quickly exposed at the next checkpoint. There was no real reason to lie.


    Yes, there were. Im working on a quest to gather the seven items.


    There was a quest like that? We didnt get that.


    Because I had already predicted such a situation, my response was also prepared in advance. It is a quest given to the first person who enters.


    Aha. Seo Joohwan seemed convinced.


    I think the item wont be of much use to you even if you get it. They dont really have any good effects. None of them are better than shop credit.


    These guys had passed level 15, so they could also use the Item Shop.


    If someone else ends up obtaining that item, I will buy it from them at a higher price than what is offered in the shop.


    * * *


    On the 7th fork, Lakits Path, ck and Purple Yaks appeared together.


    So Yoohyun extended his fist with a loud, rousing shout. Hiyaa!


    One ck Yak fell over.


    Taunt!


    !!! marks appeared over the Purple Yaks heads, indicating that their aggro had been properly pulled. Two Purple Yaks fired their horns, and while they were doing so, Seo Joohwan and the three members of his group quickly approached the Purple Yaks and killed them. As she watched, Kang Sunhwa felt a little odd.


    Those people are survivors of the Tutorial There was another man. And that mister using his fists is the Tutorial Ender, right? That super famous guy.


    There was no doubt he was currently the most famous yer in the world.


    So why


    She might just be imagining it


    Howe


    She didnt know exactly why, but


    They look so weak?


    Somehow, she got the feeling that they were weak. After a moment of contemtion, Sunhwa realized the reason.


    Its because Imparing them to oppa.


    Be it Mr. So Yoohyun, the Tutorial Ender, or that nimble-looking Mr. Seo Joohwan, both of them had quick and concise movements, but


    Compared to Hyukjin oppa


    She couldnt help but think that they fell far short. But something else was strange, and it was that Hyukjin wasnt showing his full prowess.


    Oppas movements have gotten much slower and cruder than before.


    Sunhwa couldnt be sure whether he was doing it on purpose, or if he was just tired. In any case, as it was right now, Hyukjin, Yoohyun, and Joohwan all looked to have about the same level of skill, though their ying styles were a bit different. What was significant was the fact that only 14-year-old Kang Sunhwa was able to preciselypare their movements. However, Sunhwa herself did not think of that as an impressive feat. She wasnt even cognizant of what she was doing.


    * * *


    The person who acquired the item was none other than Seo Joohwan.


    I got the item.


    I see.


    Its the Lakuts Earrings. It has no defense or durability, so its nearly about to fall apart. Its also got no special effects. You really want to buy this?


    Yes. Its a quest item, after all.


    Joohwan nodded. Ill just give it to you, then. Take it as a sign of my goodwill to you, senior, he said with a smile. It was a friendly smile, but I didnt really like it. I activated Eye of Perception again.


    Disposition: Evil / Violent / Fake


    Summary: Violent Pedophile


    This was definitely not goodwill. He might call it goodwill now, but I didnt want to ept it at all.


    I appreciate the thought, but I wont ept goodwill without good reason. Your intent is enough for me.


    Oh,e on, senior. Why so rigid? And if I wont sell it?


    For a moment, Seo Joohwans eyes subtly changed. They quickly returned to normal, but I didnt miss the change.


    He had clearly thought that Hyukjin and Sunhwa were extremely strong at first.


    But he probably felt that we werent much after actually fighting together.


    I purposely didnt show my full strength, matching my skill level to Yoohyun and Joohwan, and that had quickly drawn out Joohwans true colors. He was still calling me senior and acting polite, but I could faintly feel venomous fangs hidden behind his smiling faade.


    Because you have a talent more specialized to hunting yers than hunting monsters.


    After a beat, Seo Joohwanughed with a haha. Just kidding, just kidding. Its useless to me anyway. Ill sell it for just 500 Coins.


    To get 500 Coins, you had to kill a staggering forty ck Yaks. For reference, the Beginner Iron Sword in the Item Shop cost 500 Coins. The Lakits Earrings could probably be sold in the Shop for about 15 Coins at most. It was neither expensive nor cheap, but somewhere vaguely in between.


    Alright.


    The trade system could not be used inside dungeons. As such, I took out 500 Coins from my Inventory, and Seo Joohwan passed over the Lakits Earrings like a trade in real life. With that, the trade wasplete.


    I stowed away the item. Lets move.


    The group led by So Yoohyun and Seo Joohwan ended up being led by me, a change that urred all too naturally.


    * * *


    I went through the 7th fork with So Yoohyun and Seo Joohwan.


    After this, well reach the Statue of Mandra.


    When we reached the end of the 7th fork, a clearing appeared.[You have reached the za of Mandra.]


    In the underground cavern, I spotted a stone statue some distance away.[The Statue of Mandra opens its eyes.]


    The stone statues eyes shed open. Frightened, Sunhwa clutched the hem of my clothes. An androgynous voice that was neither female nor male echoed through the cavern.[Who has awakened me from my slumber?]


    I walked towards the statue bearing the Mandra name.


    [One without qualifications. You shant escape punishment.]


    The cavern began to quake, making it feel like something dangerous was about to happen. Pebbles fell from the ceiling.


    I havee to prove my qualifications.


    The Seoul Station Dungeon was a beginner dungeon. It didnt involveplicated, bizarre tricks or solutions. All you had to do was clear it straight and simple with a frontal assault.


    [Prove your qualifications.]


    A red light shot out from the Statue of Mandra like aser pointer and focused on my chest. If I messed up here, my heart would be prated and I would die. Beforeing into the Seoul Station Dungeon, I reviewed the process again and again,ing here only after running at least a hundred simtions in my head to avoid making any mistakes.


    In order.


    Any mistake would be my death. Before the strategy was discovered, within the scope of the beginner grade, the Seoul Station Dungeon was considered to be nearly impossible to clear.


    Ill die if I make a mistake.


    But I made no mistakes. I thought of the order once again in my mind.


    1st. Neps Path.


    2nd. Dyugos Path.


    7th. Lakits Path.


    You had to put the items on the Statue of Mandra in order. An inventory window appeared before my eyes, probably visible only to me. Just like when a yer equipped an item, I had to drag items with my eyes into that inventory window.


    As I thought, its the same.


    It was exactly the same as what I had seen in Youtube videos. I went through seven prompts.


    [Transfer Neps Ring? Y/N]


    [Transfer Lakits Earrings? Y/N]


    I answered Y to all seven prompts. The items were equipped on the Statue of Mandra, one after another. Then, the red lighting from the statues eyes disappeared, and the tremors shaking the cavern subsided as well.


    [You have proven your qualifications.]


    [Speaker. Your name is?]


    The question I had been waiting for so eagerly appeared atst.


    Finally.


    I had gathered the seven items in order to be asked this question.


    My name is


    I wasnt going to say Kim Hyukjin, my real name. If I said my name, I would get an ordinary reward. I decided to give the answer that Mandra wanted to hear.


    I would be the first to use the ultimate clearing method that had been discovered by the Great Explorer, Jackson.

 Chapter 21: Mandra (2)

    Chapter 21: Mandra (2)


    The Great Explorer, Jackson, was known to have cleared the Seoul Station Dungeon at least 300 times. He said this about the dungeon:


    [In Latin, mandra means stable.]


    Jackson interpreted the name Mandra as stable or barn, and was said to have tried various answers based on his interpretation.


    Finally, I found the correct clearing method for the Seoul Station Dungeon.


    Simply saying your name would give you so-so rewards, exactly the right kind of items for a beginner dungeon. Of course, they werent bad. However, they didnt quite deserve to be called a Hidden Piece.


    My name is


    Jacksons strategy guide was like a rulebook for beginners, and I had memorized it from cover to end. He had said it like this:


    [The correct answer is <i>Rancher</i>.]


    Your master, the one who has granted you new life. I am Rancher.


    The Mandra Statue began to shake. Finding my response curious, Seo Joohwan and So Yoohyun were unable to tear their eyes away from me. The statue had asked me for my name, but I had answered in English as Rancher.


    The Great Explorer Jacksons strategy was indeed correct.[Greetings to my master.]


    I heard a notice.


    [You have found the correct answer.]


    [You have fulfilled the Hidden Piece.]


    Notices from Guardians flooded in at the same time.


    [The Nameless Observer tilts their head.]


    [The Lady of the Scales is surprised.]


    [The Whispering Devil is feeling great interest.]


    Yes, that was only natural. I could guess that the Guardians were getting just as heated as I was. They viewed ying as their one and only amusement and stimnt. For them, I would be an incredible stimnt. I was aware of that fact, and would use it properly to my advantage.


    Golden light began to emerge from Mandras body.[Master, please select one.]


    A hologram appeared before my eyes, visible only to me. There were three choices listed on it.


    [Choose a Reward]<ol><li>Mandras Cuirass</li><li>Mandras Greatsword</li><li>Mandras Gloves</li></ol>


    I already knew these choices would appear. In the meantime, Seo Joohwan asked, It seems youve been given something special We should wait, right?


    I would be grateful if you would wait a moment. I think one minute will suffice.


    While I had been distracted, Eye of Perception had picked up something nasty. Seo Joohwans lecherous gaze had repeatedlynded on Sunhwa. He wouldnt actually do anything, but that disgusting gaze was unpleasant. However, I didnt show my disgust outwardly. After all, nothing good woulde from revealing to the world that I could read someones emotions, disposition, and special traits.


    I picked a reward without hesitation.


    Ill take the gloves.


    Mandra nodded.[Understood. I offer you my gloves. I hope these gloves be a gift that help forge your path forward.]


    I already knew the effects, but I still checked the gloves.


    [Mandras Gloves]


    Mandras Gloves have a special effect. They have a special resistance to poison and will protect the wearer from countless infectious diseases.


    Defense: 2


    Effects: Poison resistance +3


    The notices came in.


    [You have passed Mandras Test.]


    [The za of Mandra has been cleared.]


    [The next scenario quest, Two Forked Paths, will proceed.]


    A quest was issued.


    [Two Forked Paths]


    The final crossroad of the Seoul Station Dungeon. Find the appropriate clear conditions toplete the Seoul Station Dungeon. If you cannot clear the dungeon, a Dungeon Break will ur. At least one yer must enter each passage.


    Not far in the distance, I saw two forked pathways. The Seoul Station Dungeon was a dungeon that had a fundamentally forked structure. The difficulty of both paths were about the same.


    Seo Joohwan was the first to speak. I analyzed the best way to proceed, and


    I could feel a repulsive nastinessing from him via Eye of Perception. His obscene gaze towards Sunhwa was extremely unpleasant.


    As you all know, I am the type of DPS who moves quickly to strike weak points. Its a ss that can perform very well inbination with a reliable tank, like Miss Sunhwa. Joohwan continued, I think that it would be good to form a team with me, Sunhwa, and two people from my group. The other pathway can be handled by Yoohyun-nim, Hyukjin-nim, and the other person from my group. The bnce should be right that way.


    TN: -nim is a formal honorific to express respect.


    On the outside, he made it seem like he was paying heed to bnce. However, I had no intention of letting Sunhwa go. At least, not to a sickening bastard with a summary of Violent Pedophile.


    No, I responded tly.


    Seo Joohwan didnt look all that surprised. Please tell me why.


    Sunhwa is like a little sister to me. In fact, my mother is considering adopting her. I will act with Sunhwa.


    I was curious as to how Seo Joohwan, a lieutenant of the Demon King Army I knew from the past, would respond.


    Even though I conceded the item to you with good grace Wont it be bad from an efficiency standpoint?


    Efficiency? From the start, I was nning on clearing this dungeon with just me and Sunhwa.


    And you think its possible with just the two of you? Even the Intermediate Administrators rmended seven yers. Think carefully.


    His eyes werent good-natured anymore. It couldnt quite be called openly rude, but there was no real goodwill to be found, either. The look in his eyes had changed from before.


    If I had thought it impossible, I wouldnt havee in.


    You sure have a great deal of confidence.


    I could feel Joohwans emotions. Whenever someone felt intense emotions, Eye of Perception picked it up without fail. If I were to put it into words, he was cursing me as a irritating son of a bitch right now.


    It seems you have met a Guardian who is providing you a lot of information and benefits.


    Well, something like that.


    I didnt get a scrap of information from the Guardians, but it was a decent reason to convince Seo Joohwan, who promptly grinned.


    If you have received information from a Guardian That must effectively mean that Miss Sunhwa and Hyukjin-nim are capable of clearing this dungeon with the two of you, correct?


    It was effectively correct. Sunhwa and I could clear this dungeon on our own. I saw Joohwans eyes sparkle, and I knew the reason why.


    You think you and I are on the same level?


    He probably thought so. I had hidden my skills in order to make him think that.


    Thats why youll probably assume that if I can clear it, you can clear it too.


    It wasnt strange that he would misunderstand. From the start, I had saved my strength in order to make him think that. I wanted to see just how he would react now.


    Then, how would you like to proceed, senior? Since you were nning on clearing the dungeon with Sunhwa as a pair Will just the two of you go into one pathway? he asked. He continued a momentter, But if you do that, well be too unbnced, so Lets do it like this, instead. How about our group moving as one unit and Yoohyun-nim going to the other side?


    He gave a cunning smile. I checked his disposition again with Eye of Perception, clearly seeing one word on the list.Disposition: Fake


    Perhaps noticing that the mood had turned a little strange, So Yoohyun intervened. That sounds good. I will move to the other party.


    And so, the parties were divvied upme, Sunhwa, and Yoohyun in one team, Joohwan and the three yers he led in the other. Their side only had damage dealers.


    Seo Joohwan headed to the right forked pathway first. Well then, I wish you the best of luck.


    * * *


    I went into the left fork. As soon as we separated from Joohwans group, So Yoohyun spoke up. You seemed very unhappy.


    From Yoohyuns point of view, it was probably strange that I tantly made things difficult for Seo Joohwan. I had never really shown him any goodwill, even though he hadnt shown any reason to deserve such cold treatment.


    Yes. I dont really like that kind of person.


    I decided not to say too much. I wouldnt say that the man would be a named yer of an organization called Nightmare in the future, or that his current dominant disposition was fake, or that his summary was pedophile. Nor would I tell him that he hadnt noticed, but that bastard had been looking at Sunhwa with a dirty gaze. There was no need to say those things, and I had no reason to convince him of anything.


    Notices came in.


    [You have entered the first forked path.]


    [Please reach the end of the path.]


    [There will be a clue to the clear at the end of the path.]


    The notices aside, Yoohyun easily epted my half-assed exnation of I just dont like him.


    Thats fair.


    And then, he suddenly reached out and grabbed my hand. I almost shook him off by instinct. I didnt have a perverted disposition like Seo Joohwan, and I didnt swing that way either. Simply put, a mans hand? No thanks. I very nearly attacked him.


    You are the person who saved me, correct?


    I am sure I saw you in the D-Towers 2nd floor. The two heroes who left with the magic troll.


    Hm. He seemed to be remembering things a little strangely. It wasnt that we left <i>with </i>the magic troll. We had fled for our lives <i>from</i> the magic troll.


    All of my teammates died there but I survived. I owe you my life.


    <i>Oh. Hm. So, um. Thats Is that how it was?</i>


    You are my hero.


    Please give me a chance to repay you. Im very good at repaying favors.


    I had no idea how to respond. I desperately wanted to tear my hand away, but it was a little tricky to do so with those big, glistening eyes shining at me. This was the reason why I couldnt really shake off his hand:State: Goodwill / Respect / Adoration / Gratitude


    I didnt go out of my way to activate Eye of Perception, but I could very clearly feel what kinds of emotions this person had towards me. So Yoohyun was beingpletely sincere. Sincerity was overflowing from every pore of his body.


    If it is alright with you, may I call you hyungnim?


    TN: Hyungnim is a respectful form of hyung, used by a male to refer to an older male.


    But were the same age?


    That doesnt matter, does it? You are my lifes savior.


    I scratched my head. This thing called Eye of Perception was really nice and all, but it was pointlessly sensitive and forced me to understand a persons inner feelings far too well. So Yoohyuns sincerity was ryed to me loud and clear through Eye of Perception. Was this guy always so simple and honest?


    Well do as you please.


    Please speak casually to me, hyungnim.


    Sunhwa smiled, as if finding the situation very amusing. But you know, Hyukjin oppa is oppa. And Yoohyun mister is a mister. So if misters hyung is oppa, then what should I call you? After contemting on her lonesome, Sunhwa also came to a conclusion on her own, and very quickly. Mister is still mister. And oppa is oppa. That settles it.


    Yoohyuns brow wrinkled a little at being called a mister, but he didnt show his feelings openly.


    But it feels like you are staying here on purpose. Am I correct?


    This man, So Yoohyun, was pretty quick on the uptake.


    You are correct.


    Come now, hyungnim. Like I said, please speak casually.


    I nodded. <i>Fine, okay. </i>It shouldnt be a bad thing to have the future Fist King as my little brother. It wasnt like I forced him or anything. This was what he wanted, so there wasnt any reason to refuse, was there?


    Yeah, I repeated, more casually this time.


    Why? Is there some genuine secret I dont know about?


    Youll find out if we wait here a little.


    Yoohyun didnt question me, and neither did Sunhwa. Waiting at the Safe Zone without leaving was a strange thing to do, but the two of them waited patiently.


    After about ten minutes, we heard a notice.


    [A new yer is entering.]


    [The Safe Zone will be deactivated, as the limit of five yers has been exceeded.]


    There was only one reason why I had waited without expending my stamina. It was because I predicted that the others would enter our path, though I hoped my prediction wouldnte true.


    Did they already clear the other path, hyungnim?


    I knew Seo Joohwan woulde here. I also knew he would stab me in the back. I knew he had a summary of Violent Pedophile, and that his disgusting gaze had been straying towards Sunhwa.


    And I knew onest thing.


    That the current Seo Joohwan was no match for me.

 Chapter 22: Second Innate Ability

    Chapter 22: Second Innate Ability


    I stared at Seo Joohwan and his group of three, numbering four in total.


    He said to me, You dont seem all that surprised?


    His way of speech had suddenly be very casual. I, of course, responded in the same manner.


    I had a vague idea of what you would do. Though I didnt think youd really go for it.


    Really? He smirked. Then we can cut the useless chatter.


    He took out his weapon, the dagger. He hade here determined.


    Theres no video surveince here and no police to protect you, as Im sure youre well aware.


    Of course I was. There were tons of cases where people went into dungeons and their bodies could not even be found. Murders urred frequently within. Later on, the yers Association would be established and there would be implicit promises and rules between yers, but that was a thing of the future.


    Your reason for doing this?


    I just find you really annoying. Youre real irritating, see? Seo Joohwan stared at me in distaste before adding one more thing. But if you give me that girl, Ill let you go this time.


    Seo Joohwan turned to Yoohyun and offered him the proposal as well. How about it, Yoohyun? All you have to do is give me that girl and this situation can be settled nice and neatly.


    Sunhwa clutched the hem of my clothes. I could feel how small her hand was, just how small a 14-year-old girl just barely out of elementary school was.


    I just dont understand why youre asking for Sunhwa, I said.


    Actually, I knew the truth. His summary hadid his nature bare.Summary: Violent Pedophile


    In other words, he was a psychopath. I stared at the man. Right now, the Seo Joohwan in my eyes didnt look that strong.


    You said it. There are no surveince cameras here.


    <i>That also applies to you, you psychopath.</i>


    He snickered. What? You cant be thinking of fighting us, right? Im sure Yoohyun will be neutral. You think you and that tiny little girl will be a match for us four?


    I was so dumbfounded I had tough. What in the world had him so confident that Yoohyun would be neutral?


    Yoohyun also rified. But Im on hyungnims side? he said, his raised fists making him seem like a cow determined to butt heads with Seo Joohwan.


    That didnt seem to faze our opponent much. Well, whatever. Ive already seen the full extent of your skills. His eyes grew serious. Ill give you onest chance.


    Eye of Perception ryed an electrifying sensation to me. It was as if a sharp de were pricking my body. I had learned this feeling through Eye of Perception.


    Murderous intent.


    It was his bloodthirst, his desire to kill someone. That man was serious right now.


    He spoke, as if giving a final warning. Were about tied when ites to hunting monsters. But I


    Knowing what he was about to say, I cut in. Have an ability specialized for PVP.


    Joohwan was briefly taken aback, having had the words taken from his mouth. However, he quickly recovered his rxed air.


    Youre well-informed.


    I smiled. Have you learned Shadow Ambush, at least?


    He probably hadnt yet. He hadnt even advanced to a ss. From his reaction, I could tell he hadnt learned any techniques like Shadow Ambush. If so, I wasnt all that worried.


    Let me ask you one more time.


    Feel free.


    If I dont give you Sunhwa, you really intend on killing us?


    Seo Joohwan grinned. I told you already. Theres no surveince here. This is really yourst chance. Decide. Whether youll all die, or just give that girl to me.


    Because there were no police here, nows. Because this was a dungeon.


    Thats right. Thats the sort of ce this is.


    I hadnt forgotten. I hadnt experienced it before in the past, but the dungeons during the beginning period were allwless zones.


    How about it? Decided in your heart?


    My answer to you is


    <i>This.</i>


    I shot towards Seo Joohwan first, bending slightly for a takedown tackle.


    Hell dodge.


    I could see his movements as clearly as day. His trajectory, and how he would move, they were all drawn out in my head.


    You crazy bastard!


    The long-ranged DPS nocked an arrow at me, an action that was not lost on me. My Eye of Perception that had absorbed Sixth Sensepletely read his movements.


    Slow.


    From the beginning, Joohwan wasnt my objective. My target was the irritating long-ranged DPS, Go Janghan.


    I hoped I wouldnt have to use it, but


    I twisted in ce and used the thing I had prepared in Janghans direction.


    * * *


    So Yoohyun was instantly stunned.


    Huh?


    It was already surprising that Kim Hyukjin had predicted all of this, but more surprising was that his movements werepletely different from before.


    He was hiding his full strength?


    That was the only exnation. Hyukjins movements were incredibly clean. Yoohyun had always been well-versed in various martial arts, and in his eyes, Hyukjins movements just now looked like they hade from a long-time wrestler.


    He purposely didnt show all of his strength, Yoohyun realized. Hyukjin had done so exactly for a situation like this. That one movement just now had proven it without a trace of doubt.


    Yoohyun also steeled himself to fight. It was all or nothing.


    You assholes.


    He started running towards one yer. Just then, Kang Sunhwa jumped in.[Using the skill tinum Shield.]


    <i>ng!</i>


    A loud ng echoed out. Sunhwa had blocked Joohwans dagger attack, protecting Yoohyun.


    Thanks.


    This child who was only 14, a kid whose talent tes hadnt even fully opened up yet, had read the attack of a man specialized in surprise attacks.[Using the skill Power Fist.]


    White light gathered in Yoohyuns fist. Hended his fist squarely in the abdomen of a yer.


    Gugh!


    The yer curled like a shrimp. At the same time, Kim Hyukjin approached and scattered something sweet-smelling.


    Hyukjin was sure of it.


    We can beat them.


    The other side had underestimated them too much.


    No, we <i>will </i>beat them.


    Yoohyun moved far better and faster than he expected. Sunhwas sense forbat was second to none. She waspletely different from the scared and cowering girl she had been moments before.


    The moment the battle started, Sunhwapletely changed.


    Sunhwa blocked a whopping three of Seo Joohwans rather tricky attacks, even though she was breathing hard and trembling because she had used tinum Shield many times in session.


    Hyukjin poured honey water over Seo Joohwan, like he had already done with Go Janghan. That was the honey his sister had bought for him. He had diluted it into honey water.


    The fuck are you doing?!


    Seo Joohwan had the feeling that things were not going as nned. Both Yoohyun and Sunhwa were far stronger than he expected. He thought theyd be able to overwhelm the three of them, but his group was the one getting overwhelmed.


    No, the problem isnt Yoohyun or Sunhwa.


    It wasnt them. The personpletely responsible for this situation was Kim Hyukjin. His movements were difficult to chase. As if he were using some kind of special footwork, Hyukjin attacked them while nimbly dodging.


    Just how fucking high is his Agility?!


    Joohwan had invested a ton of his points into Agility. But Hyukjin was still faster. The rat weaved in and out, breaking their center of gravity. There were also Yoohyuns powerful blows to contend with, and Sunhwa blocked their asional attacks.


    Fuck!


    That bastard. He had to catch that bastard. As long as they could do something about Hyukjin, everything would work out. He thought Yoohyun would be the biggest problem, but it was actually Hyukjin. Joohwans entire body felt sticky. His hair and clothes were a mess of sweat and honey water.


    Is he trying to rile us up?


    Hyukjin could have easily gone for a fatal blow, but he didnt use any weapons and simply poured honey water on them.


    <i>Booooom!</i>


    <i>Booooom!</i>


    He started to hear loud boomsing from deeper along the pathway.


    * * *


    Get down!


    At my shout, Yoohyun and Sunhwa immediately ducked. When we first came in here, I had told them in advance:


    [On the off chance that something happens, if I tell you to get down, get down no matter whats going on. Got it?]


    Both Yoohyun and Sunhwa got down immediately, as did I. A swarm of bees rushed past our heads. They were far bigger than regr bees, even bigger than the Asian giant hos that were frequently called the scariest bees.[The attack of the Buzzing Bees has begun.] Buzzing Bee LVL 18


    Their individual levels werent that high, but there were <i>thousands </i>of them in a swarm. Without a fire mage, it was better to not even consider trying to kill them.


    W-What the fuck?!?


    The screams began.


    Buzzing Bees were very sensitive to sweet smells.


    U-Uaaaghhhhh!


    S-Save meeee!


    P-Please save me!


    And they had a habit of drinking yers blood.


    I-I beg you!


    Save


    No


    Covered from head to toe in thousands of Buzzing Bees, the screams of the four yers sticky with honey water became quieter and quieter.[The attack of the Buzzing Bees has ended.]


    Hundreds of Buzzing Bees that had be bloated from drinking too much blood had fallen to the ground, along with four yers who had be as desated as mummies.


    Its over.


    Eye of Perception couldnt sense anything from them anymore. There was no trace of life. Now, they could no longer be considered living.


    They died.


    Technically, <i>I </i>was the one who killed them.


    I dont feel as much as I thought I would.


    I was more emotionless than I expected. Even though I had justmitted murder, I didnt feel much guilt or pangs of conscience, nor was I nauseated or scared by the sight of those mummified bodies. I was so calm I was a little scared of myself.


    I cast onest nce at Seo Joohwan, whose body had be mummified.


    You brought this on yourself.


    If you were resolved to kill someone, you had to be resolved to meet your own death.


    The bodies were sucked dry of their blood. The Buzzing Bees scattered on the ground, round as balloons with blood. I had created this situation, almost like a conductor directing an orchestra.


    The reactions of the Guardians were mixed.


    [The Lady of the Scales is greatly disappointed in you.]


    [The Nameless Observer is silent.]


    [The Whispering Devil ps his hands in glee.]


    Standing behind me, Yoohyun and Sunhwa held their silence for a moment. After all, what had just happened before them was not something they had seen in their everyday life. The calmest person here wasnt the future Fist King So Yoohyun, but actually me, Kim Hyukjin. The same Kim Hyukjin who had received a [No Talent] evaluation.


    I heard some notices.


    [A special situation has been exposed.]


    [The System has recognized the situation as a PK (yer Kill).]


    [Forcibly awakening your dormant Innate Ability due to your first PK.]


    I had already heard a notice like this before. Back when we were running from the magic troll, there was a notice like this. That was when I awakened my innate ability Sixth Sense, and that Sixth Sense had been fused into the Eye of Perception I currently possessed.


    I had another innate ability?


    Most yers only got one innate ability, and it was orthodox for it to unlock at around level 60. Fast yers would get it at around level 40. But I already had two of them.[Awakening your Innate Ability.]


    Huh?


    And to my surprise, that innate ability was one I was already very familiar with.

 Chapter 23: Second Innate Ability (2)

    Chapter 23: Second Innate Ability (2)


    There were more notices.


    [The Innate Ability Eye for an Eye, Tooth for a Tooth has been awakened.]


    [Check the Innate Ability?]


    Eye for an Eye, Tooth for a Tooth was among the rtivelymon innate abilities. However, there was a ss yer who had won her fame with this ability as a foundation.


    Sword Empress Shin Yeonseo.


    The Sword Empress never revealed the name of her innate ability exactly as Eye for an Eye, Tooth for a Tooth.


    Hers was probably an innate ability of a higher grade.


    The innate ability of the Sword Empress ten yearster was thought to be Hammurabi. Of course, that was just a guessit wasnt confirmed by the Sword Empress herself.


    In any case, theyre the same in essence. Theres a high chance this is the ability the Sword Empress started with.


    The Sword Empress raiding capabilities were very outstanding, but her PVPing ability was even better than that. There were rumors on the Inte that the Fist King So Yoohyun and the me Lord Choi Sung-gu had lost in 1:1 PVP to the Sword Empress.


    I think she had a tie with the Typhoon, Jo Sunghyun, right?


    It was said that the Sword Empress had the higher skills, but Jo Sunghyun had the advantage in ystyle. The people in question didnt state it outright, but it was something known by most people who had an interest in ying or civil service students studying for the civil servant exam that had new questions every iteration based on the history the current figures wrote.


    [Status Window]


    Name: Kim Hyukjin (yer)


    Level: 18


    Title: [First Pioneer] [Excellent yer]


    Innate Ability: [Eye of Perception] [Eye for an Eye, Tooth for a Tooth]


    Strength: 17


    Intelligence: 17


    Agility: 23


    Perception: 17


    Constitution: 17


    Willpower: 17 (+30)


    Bonus stats: 6


    Random stats: 3


    Undistributed stats: 9


    I clicked the innate ability.


    [Eye for an Eye, Tooth for a Tooth]


    Its only right to return what is dealt to you, even more so if its revenge. This Innate Ability triggers when you are dealt a preemptive attack by a yer. However, if you remain passive after receiving a preemptive attack, all buffs will take effect as debuffs.<ol><li><ol><li><ol><li><ol><li>


    1. Attack power +7%</li></ol></li></ol></li></ol></li></ol><ol><li><ol><li><ol><li><ol><li>


    2. Attack speed +7%</li></ol></li></ol></li></ol></li></ol><ol><li><ol><li><ol><li><ol><li>


    3. Critical chance +7%</li></ol></li></ol></li></ol></li></ol><ol><li><ol><li><ol><li><ol><li>


    4. MP consumption -7%</li></ol></li></ol></li></ol></li></ol><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">If you remain passive after receiving a preemptive attack, points 1-3 will be -7% and point 4 will be +7%</li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">A low chance of having a seizure if you remain passive after receiving a preemptive attack.</li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul>


    Youll be even stronger against a yer who attacks you first.


    Considering this was still the early stage, this ability was almost a cheat.


    Is it okay for someone to get something like this in the early stage?


    This meant there was a far higher possibility for its growth. Things like titles were also easier to upgrade the sooner they were given. With that in mind, I really wasnt sure if it was okay for me to get something like this in the Seoul Station Dungeon, a mere beginner dungeon and essentially the first dungeon outside of the Tutorial.


    But wait, actually innate abilities are kind of like a talent my body was originally born with.


    The only issue was whether you could awaken them or not. In other words, these two innate abilities were abilities I always had within me.


    Just then, another notice interrupted my thoughts.[The Intermediate Administrator Senia has requested a chat. Will you ept? Y/N]


    However, it wasnt a simple chat.[A Pause has taken effect due to the Intermediate Administrator Senia.]


    * * *


    Senia reached out first and requested a chat with Kim Hyukjin. She was so curious that she really couldnt hold back. To be more precise, it was the Guardians who were curious, especially the Lady of the Scales who had expressed great disappointment in Hyukjin.


    A Pause has taken effect. Nobody else here can hear this conversation. yer Kim Hyukjin. This is a conversation between the two of us.


    Senia said it like it was just a chat between the two of them, but Hyukjin already knew.


    The Guardians must be listening, too.


    It wasnt a chat between him and Senia. If it was, they would be talking with an actual whisper. In other words, this conversation right now was a yer Video being shown to the Guardians. Hyukjin had picked up on that quickly, unbeknownst to Senia.


    She said, There was a sh of light just now. What was it?


    Hyukjin looked around. Everything had be ck and whitethe world was on PAUSE.


    Im surprised she went for a Pause.


    It was rare for an Intermediate Administrator to independentlye out and use their Pause authority during a dungeon y. In most cases, that meant some Guardianone with quite a lot of financial powerhad requested a Pause.


    If a Guardian stepped in


    That meant the Guardians were going crazy with curiosity.


    There was a sh of light like I got something, after all.


    It wasnt time for a level up yet, so there was no reason for there to be a sh of light. I was well aware of that.


    Theyre probably making a fuss at her to find out what it is.


    After all, these damned Guardians werepletely unable to resist their curiosity. I could see it in my head. Right now, I was merely a thing of amusement for the Guardians as a yer, but actually, I was the one who could make them antsy. If I yed my cards right in the future, I could even lead the Guardians by the nose. It wasnt possible right at this instant, but I could already see that possibility.


    I got an emergency quest.


    As an Intermediate Administrator, Senia was aware that Hyukjins words were a lie. At the very least, information rted to quests were shared to Intermediate Administrators.


    If I were to summarize the quest Kill those who are trying to kill me. Only, I couldnt kill them directly.


    Senia didnt say anything, maintaining her usual expressionless face. She simply listened.


    A definite lie. What is this yer thinking?


    Hyukjin was an iprehensible yer who couldnt be predicted at all. Even Senia was curious about what words woulde from the mouth of this strange yer who was only level 18.


    Does he know that these words are being ryed to the Guardians?


    They were in a pause state right now. She hadnt told him that the Guardians were listening in, but could it be that he knew?


    Please continue, Senia said.


    * * *


    If I were to summarize the quest Kill those who are trying to kill me. Only, I couldnt kill them directly.


    The reason why I said this was because I was conscious of the Lady of the Scales listening in. Id heard earlier that the Lady of the Scales was greatly disappointed.


    I killed someone, so she probably wasnt happy about that.


    To say it in extremes, the Lady of the Scales was a Guardian with a very moralfag personality. It wasnt strange that she was disappointed in me, since regardless of the situation as a whole, I did end up killing them. This was why absolute good types were exhausting to deal with.


    That yellow light was the indicator for getting the quest reward.


    I stilled for a moment, examining Senias expression. What were the Guardians saying? But Senia was as expressionless as ever, and I wasnt able to glean any hints from her expression.


    As the quest reward, I got an innate ability awakening.


    I decided to tell the truth on this.


    Eye for an Eye, Tooth for a Tooth. Its an innate ability where I must attack back if someone attacks me first or directs ill will towards me. If I dont do anything after getting hit Ill have a seizure as a side effect. If you want, you can scan it.


    This much exnation was probably enough to appease the Lady of the Scales a little, too. I was simply following the rules of the System. A yer is an existence bound to scenarios and quests. That was, in effect, an Absolute Law.


    Its about time for the Lady of the Scales to bite.


    This time, I received a real whisper, a voice only I could hear. Even the Guardians couldnt hear it.<ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">Why did you lie?</li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">Is the reason important?</li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">Lies can lead toter problems.</li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul>


    This Streamer still had a long way to go. I could tell she was a beginner simply from the way she tantly whispered to me.<ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">Your objective is getting Coins, and mine is living a good life. If we can help each other in achieving those goals, there shouldnt be any reason to butt heads.</li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">Did you really get that ability?</li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul>


    It was true that I got an innate ability called Eye for an Eye, Tooth for a Tooth. Senia continued talking to me in a businesslike tone.<ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">Your lie cannot be exposed, not even by mistake. The Guardians are sensitive to lies. They can even give themand to kill you for fabricating the quest.</li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul>


    How very cute. I grinned, but only inwardly. I couldnt show the Guardians my expression.<ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">Whats higher? The chance of you making a mistake, or of me making a mistake?</li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul>


    The fact she had aided and abetted my lie meant we were in the same boat.<ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">You overlooked my lie. One misstep, and youll also be a target for the Guardians. After all, they cant tolerate being deceived by lower beings.</li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li></ul>


    It was a relief she wasnt glib-tongued or talkative. She didnt talk much, so there should be less of a chance for her to slip up.


    Its actually better than being talkative.


    Her talent as a Streamer was at the bottom of the barrel, but it didnt mattershe could still survive if she had quality content that could cover for herck of talent, and then some.


    I said a few more things aloud. If a whisper went on for too long, the Guardians would definitely think something was up, though this blockheaded Streamer didnt even know that.


    I dont feel good about it, I said, making a dark expression. I was also an ordinary person until very recently, and leading someone to their death like this is scary and terrifying. I feel that way, even now.


    <i>Lady of the Scales, are you listening? </i>I didnt want to have to say this much, but I had no choice.


    But Im even more fearful of someone precious to me getting hurt. I would rather be a murderer than let something terrible happen to a child who sacrificed her life for me.


    This was the final nail in the coffin.


    Because that is what I consider to be the greatest justice I can carry out.


    I finally heard a notice.


    [The Lady of the Scaless misunderstanding has been resolved.]


    [The Lady of the Scales acknowledges the Absolute Law.]


    [The Lady of the Scales understands your true heart.]


    The lovely notices continued.


    [The Lady of the Scales has gifted you 300 Coins.]


    [The Lady of the Scales is seriously considering bestowing arge gift.]


    [The Lady of the Scales decides to postpone therge gift.]


    Ah. The result fell a little short of the mark. If possible, I would have liked to make her feel a bit sorrier and direct the y a bit more dramatically so that she wouldnt just consider, but actually bestow.


    Well in any case, Ive acquired the possibility of getting arge gift from her.


    You couldnt expect too much with the first swing.


    The Pause will end soon.


    Shortly afterwards, the Pause ended.


    * * *


    So Yoohyun was a future Ranker. He was someone who would rise to the position of Fist King even without my help or meddling. Naturally, he was a yer of overwhelming talent, and so I thought he would quickly be ustomed to death.


    I would have done the same. Even death was too good for them. Hyungnim, dont be too torn up about them for no reason.


    I expected this response from him. However, Sunhwas reaction was unexpected. She was unexpectedly extremely calm, and was unmoved by the indirect murder I hadmitted.


    It was really scary, but those were bad people.


    She didnt go so far as to say good riddance, but it didnt look like Sunhwa was all that fazed by their deaths. The phrase influence of talent was a very famous set of words that described why someone could adapt so quickly in a situation like this.


    Hm? Come to think of it The person most unfeeling about this situation is me.


    I had just essentially killed Seo Joohwans group with my own hands, but despite that, I suffered absolutely zero mental shock. On the contrary, I was calm enough to use the situation to soothe the Lady of the Scales and paint the situation I wanted. It was enough to make me wonder if I was a psychopath.


    Though they <i>were </i>trash who deserved to die.


    In any case, it was surprising to me that I could be so aloof to someones death.


    I trust you, oppa.


    I picked up on an intense emotion via Eye of Perception.State: Trust / Reliance / Respect


    Under my direction, Yoohyun and Sunhwa hunted the Buzzing Bees littered on the ground with reddened bodies and bulging bellies. You couldnt even really call it hunting. You just had to nudge them and they would explode with a pop! It was a side effect of having sucked too much human blood.


    We didnt get any notable items.


    [Acquired Buzzing Bees Stinger.]


    [Acquired Buzzing Bees Stinger.]


    The most we got were Buzzing Bee Stingers. The monsters also didnt give much EXP.


    We hunted all of the Buzzing Bees we could see. The time hade to advance.


    Lets go.


    At the end of this path was a crystal, a crystal that would allow us to clear the Seoul Station Dungeon.


    There was one in this path, and one in the path that Joohwan had gone to. Once we got both, we could achieve what I wanted.


    We continued forward, hunting the ck Yaks and Purple Yaks along the path.


    [Acquired ck Yaks Lean Meat.]


    [Acquired ck Yaks Lean Meat.]


    Yoohyun and Sunhwa showed a fairly impressive y.


    Oppa, over there.


    I saw a crystal exuding purple light floating in the air, around thirty centimetres in size.


    Just then, a notice came in.[The Seoul Station Crystal does not wee intruders.]


    An ominous purple energy began to spread from the crystal like a fog.[Eye of Perception detects danger.]


    It was a vicious poisonous gas.

 Chapter 24: Korean Father

    Chapter 24: Korean Father[Eye of Perception detects danger.]


    It was definitely not a meaningless warning.


    Its dangerous to approach without any sort of defenses.


    In the initial stage of the Seoul Station Dungeon, countless yers lost their lives to that poisonous gas, not knowing the method to counter it.


    Oppa!


    Despite having be ustomed to Goblins and rtively normal monsters like City Wolves, it seemed Sunhwa still hadnt gotten used to these kinds of special effects.


    Im scared, she murmured, standing behind me.


    Yoohyun didnt show it, but he also looked tense.


    Both of you, stay back.


    The speed of the diffusion itself wasnt fast. It was fine as long as you didnt breathe it in. We were still okay, since we were far away.


    What about you, oppa?


    I have to get rid of that.


    Sunhwas eyes were round with worry.


    Itll be fine. Dont worry.


    It wasnt like I didnt feel any nerves. Even though I knew the strategy from beginning to end, even though I knew how to get rid of that poisonous gas, I would still die if I messed up.


    I strode towards the crystal.


    Around here, I guess.


    I drew in a big breath. Having be a yer, I could now hold my breath far longer than a regr person. My eyes were fixed on the crystal exuding the poisonous smoke.


    Here I go.


    I inspected the item onest time, the Hidden Piece item I got from Mandra.


    [Mandras Gloves]


    Mandras Gloves have a special effect. They have a special resistance to poison and will protect the wearer from countless infectious diseases.


    Defense: 2


    Effects: Poison resistance +3


    A poison resistance of +3 couldnt block all poisons. The closer I got to the crystal, the more my skin began to sting.


    [Resisting the poisonous smoke of the Seoul Station Crystal.]


    [Eye of Perception detects danger.]


    I sensed the danger slightly more concretely through Eye of Perception. If I kept going forward like this, I would get poisoned and die. After some time, my skin would rot and fester. Poison resistance +3 alone wasnt enough topletely resist this crystals poisonous smoke.


    And this was something I already knew. I continued to approach the crystal, holding my breath as best I could.


    Senia must know.


    She had to know that I, someone who didnt have full poison resistance, wouldnt be unscathed from approaching the crystal simply on the merit of the Mandras Gloves.


    And the Guardians must be focusing, too.


    Senia and the Guardians, both of them were likely focusing on my ying. They wanted to see. They wanted to see if a mere level 18 yer could truly clear this ce on his own. For Guardians with names like Whispering Devil, they might even want to see me die a miserable death.


    Ill show you.


    The ying you guys want.


    Inventory.


    I opened up my Inventory, then pulled out an item. It was the item we had acquired earlier, Buzzing Bees Stinger. It was a monster that gave little EXP and not many Coins. Despite that, we worked hard to hunt them, not missing out on a single one.


    [The crystals poison has begun to seep into your body.]


    [Resisting the poison.]


    Its hard to keep my eyes open.


    Thanks to my stats being far higher than the regr yer, my poison resistance was likely higher than the average yer.


    Im also at my limit for holding my breath.


    I had reached the crystal, but the poisonous smoke was so thick I could hardly see in front of myself. Actually, I really couldnt see anything. The smoke was just too thick.


    Where is it?[Eye of Perception detects very severe danger.]


    Eye of Perception did me the useless favor of drawing out the future in great detail. If time went on like this, I would die.


    Gugh!


    I tried my best to hold my breath, but it wasnt perfect. I felt the poison seeping up into my nostrils, and the feeling of my skin burning.[Potions cannot be used.]


    I already knew that.


    Where is it?!


    I couldnt keep my eyes open anymore. Intense pain began to hit me. Despite the pain, I desperately groped for the crystal.


    Here!


    In the end, Eye of Perception didnt fail me. I was able to grab the crystal.


    Quick!


    The very same instant I got the crystal, I crushed the Buzzing Bees Stinger in my hand. A ck fluid burst out of the needle-like stinger. Quite a lot of fluid flowed out from such a small stinger and fell onto the crystal.


    Szzz!


    Smoke rose from the crystal.


    [The toxicity of the Seoul Station Crystal is being neutralized.]


    [The toxicity of the Seoul Station Crystal is being neutralized.]


    I crushed more Buzzing Bees Stingers and smeared their fluid on the crystal. Every time I did so, smoke billowed up and I got notices saying the toxicity of the Seoul Station Crystal was being weakened.


    I heard Sunhwas voice, saying one honest and simple word.


    Holy


    The purple smoke thinned, little by little.


    Gugh gugh!


    I stared at my arm. It had turned purple and looked fairly poisoned.


    It wasnt as easy as I thought.


    My physical sight had been rendered nearlypletely unusable. As a result, I wasnt able to find the crystal right away.


    In any case, I did it.


    It wasnt perfect, but I achieved it nevertheless. At just level 18, I managed to destroy the crystal of the Seoul Station Dungeon, something that had produced countless victims in the past.


    [Acquired the Seoul Station Crystal.]


    [You have fulfilled  of the clear conditions.]


    Before I knew it, the smoke hadpletely disappeared.


    [The Nameless Observer observes you with deep interest.]


    [The Whispering Devil is disappointed.]


    The Whispering Devil definitely wanted to see me die from poison, it seemed.


    Yoohyun approached me. Hyungnim, how did you do it? I couldnt see very well because of the smoke.


    We got the Buzzing Bees Stingers earlier, remember? I neutralized the poison smoke with that.


    How did you know you could neutralize the smoke with that?


    The item description says it neutralizes poison.


    There was no need to twist myself in knots to exin. The Guardians were watching, and I didnt need to boast about my ying.


    Then did you think of this y after seeing just that one description?


    Yeah.


    It wasnt something Id thought of. It was the Great Explorer, the mighty Jackson. Yoohyun was silent.State: Respect / Interest / Surprise


    Somehow, it felt like his state was bing simr to Sunhwas, but that wasnt important. I acquired the crystal. After doing it once, it would be a little easier to get the other crystal.


    Lets go.


    * * *


    The party went into the path that Seo Joohwan had gone into first. Their way through was almost the same, and so was the difficulty.


    They then reached the vicinity of the crystal and heard the notice once again.[The Seoul Station Crystal does not wee intruders.]


    It was a repetition of the same trick. To some extent, the Seoul Station Dungeon was a beginner dungeon and didnt have aplicated or difficult clearing method. As long as you knew the strategy, it had a very high clearing chance and the death chance was also very low.[Eye of Perception detects danger.]


    Like before, Eye of Perception sent Hyukjin warning signals. However, Hyukjin was able to acquire the crystal with slightly more ease than before.


    Senia streamed Hyukjins y in silence.


    He has already grown.


    The way he nullified the Seoul Station crystals poisonous smoke earlier was already surprising, but after doing it just once, his movements were much more natural than before.


    Earlier, he was definitely in a really dangerous spot.


    The poisonous smoke was so thick that he wasnt able to find the crystal properly. If he didnt have Eye of Perception, Kim Hyukjin might have even died in the first forked pathway.


    But this time


    Last time, his arm had gone purple, but this time, there wasnt a trace of purple anywhere, meaning he hadnt taken any damage from the poisonous gas.


    [The Nameless Observer is in awe of the speed of your growth.]


    [The Lady of the Scales is surprised by your growth.]


    [The Courageous Lion King has begun to take an interest again in your talent.]


    The Guardians were also in awe of Hyukjins current speed of growth. They were watching his ying from a 3rd person view. They could make far more objective estimates of his ying.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. Are you conscious of what kind of ying you are doing right now?


    What in the world was this yer?


    Hermon sense could not make sense of it. There wasnt even any need for her to make anymentary. Even at this very moment, prominent Guardians were entering her channel, simply based on the fact that she had good quality content.[Anonymous Guardians are entering Channel #19207 in great numbers.]


    Not just Rabble, but yet another Guardian who revealed their True Name entered her channel.[The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain has entered Channel #19207.]


    Senia simply continued to stream Hyukjins ying, watching in silence as Hyukjin obtained the crystal.


    [Acquired the Seoul Station Crystal.]


    [You have fulfilled the clear conditions for the Seoul Station Dungeon.]


    Some unfortunate dungeons could only be cleared bypletely destroying the crystal at the end, and the crystal possessed incredible defense. Fortunately, the Seoul Station Dungeon didnt require such a thing.


    [Clearplete.]


    [The Seoul Station Dungeon has been cleared.]


    [The Dungeon Break of the Seoul Station Dungeon has been sealed.]


    Senia, who had been streaming while semi-transparent, revealed herself. So Yoohyuns jaw dropped upon seeing her.


    My god


    Her appearance was beyond anything hed ever seen. It was like a noble angel had descended from the heavens. Even her expressionlessness was beautiful. It went past beauty into something more noble.


    Shes Hyungnims Intermediate Administrator?


    He almost drooled. How could she be so beautiful? Yoohyun found himself amazed by how Hyukjin could remain unmoved even while looking at such an incredible beauty.


    Just what in the world did this hyungnim do in the past?


    Yoohyun was curious as to what hyungnims background could possibly be.


    Im sure Ill slowly find out.


    He decided not to approach too abruptly. He already owed Hyukjin his life. Yoohyun resolved to repay his debt to that person slowly, very slowly, in his own way.


    Senia opened her mouth. I will proceed with the rewards.


    You being here to give the rewards must mean theres something special.


    Normally, when a dungeon was cleared, the dungeon itself would give the rewards. That was how it normally was. The fact an Intermediate Administrator personally appeared to deliver the reward meant they had used some item or authority.


    I think therell be a level up point, as a fundamental reward.


    Senia nodded. Yes. I will distribute level up points to all members of the group that cleared the Seoul Station Dungeon.


    That was a very unsurprising reward, an all-too-ordinarypensation.


    What I want is


    There was something else that Hyukjin wanted. His true goal for clearing this dungeon was something else. It was the first step and the starting line for his n.


    Shell probably give me a choice.


    Hyukjin silently waitedno good came from being hasty. Atst, Senia continued.


    For showing an astonishing y, a choice will be offered to yer Kim Hyukjin.

 Chapter 25: Korean Father (2)

    Chapter 25: Korean Father (2)


    A choice will be offered to yer Kim Hyukjin.


    I already knew what the Seoul Station Dungeons first clear reward was.


    Number one is gold.


    Actual wealth would be given. I even knew exactly how much it was in grams. It was a regr exam question.


    3.75 kg.


    In grams, that was a whopping 3,750. I knew why it was that number, too. That number was necessary in story dungeons that progressed the story, not just one-time dungeons. It would be usedter.


    But right now, its meaningless to me.


    Of course, it was true that my heart was racing. Nearly 4 kg of gold had a value of 200 million won, or approximately $200k.


    As was befitting of a number rted to ater scenario, Senia personally read out the number.


    You can acquire a pouch filled with 3.75 kg of gold.


    A hologram appeared before my eyes. It was visible only to me. I was given a choice, to take the gold or not. An ordinary person would probably choose the gold without looking back.


    200 million won.


    It was a quantity Id never had in my lifeno, never even seen. On the TV or the Inte, everyone and their mother was a wealthy person with millions and owned buildings worth hundreds of millions. But me? Much less millions, I didnt even have a few thousand. For me, even a few dors was money I was loath to part with.


    But where this gold came from is uncertain.


    The System hadnt properly taken root in society yet. If someone came out with a lump of gold of uncertain origin they picked up somewhere, it would be difficult to properly prove its worth.


    It would already be a relief if it didnt get taken by the state.


    The yers Association would be established, and the big corporations would start dipping their feet into the yer world with Sungshin at their lead. After that, rted legition would start to be enacted.


    In the early stages of ying, as unreasonable as it was, many yers were forced to donate their rewards to the state, as taxes.


    What was it again? Goods that came from an unknown world are dangerous, so they will be confiscated or something like that.


    The country seized the pouch, armed with such ridiculous nonsense and even justifying themselves by calling it taxes. It wasplete hogwash ording to themon sense of ten yearster, but that was how it was right now, during the early stage of ying.


    So the gold is a no-go.


    It was an attractive reward, but I suppressed my greed.


    And the other choice?


    The other choice is a Recovery Elixir.


    Another hologram appeared.


    [Choose a reward]<ol><li>


    Pouch of Gold (3.75 kg gold)</li><li>


    Recovery Elixir</li></ol>


    Type A  ?


    Type B  ?


    Type C  ?


    It was exactly as I remembered. Originally, Seo Joohwan was the person who got this dungeons first reward, but he was no longer standing in this position.


    The future has changed.


    It had changed, but many things had also stayed the same. The rewards were the same. If that was the case, then my decision was also set.


    I choose the type B Recovery Elixir.


    There is no knowing what kind of item the type B Recovery Elixir is. If your luck is bad, it could be something truly useless. I do not rmend it at all.


    It was basically a gacha. Any healing medication that fell within the recovery category coulde out. Worst case, it could even be medication to treat athletes foot or cold medicine.


    I


    Will you change your choice?


    But I already knew what the type B Recovery Elixir marked as ? was.


    Still choose type B.


    [The Nameless Observer is curious about your choice.]


    [The Lady of the Scales expresses doubt at your choice.]


    [The Whispering Devil finds your choice amusing.]


    They had to be very curious. If I didnt know what Seo Joohwan had done, if I didnt know the future, I wouldnt have chosen to gamble over the gold.


    As for my teammates, Yoohyun acquired Iron Gauntlets with Agility +1 and Sunhwa got a headband with Constitution +2.


    Theyre pretty good.


    Beginner grade items with stats as effects were pretty effective, after all. In any case, the Seoul Station Dungeon was cleared.


    I had also definitely heard the notice saying so.[The Dungeon Break of the Seoul Station Dungeon has been sealed.]


    Now, the Seoul Station Dungeon was in no danger of breaking. That was a big relief. In the past, yers were unable to stop the Seoul Station Dungeon from breaking. Dungeon breaks urred <em>three </em>times, and as a result, thousands of casualties came about.


    Approximately 2300 deaths and 800 seriously injured.


    The number of slightly injured people couldnt even be counted. I was actively changing the future, the future I knew. I didnt know how long my knowledge would apply. If I were to allow things to continue the way I knew, I might have had to turn a blind eye to the dungeon break.


    However


    If I did that, I wouldnt even be human.


    I wasnt some impressive hero or saint, but I thought it would be too cowardly not to stop a tragedy I could easily prevent. I had already experienced the Cataclysm of April 27th, 2028, in Jongno. Countless people had died before my eyes. If I could prevent more deaths, it was only right to do so.


    I didnt have any grandiose goals or desires to be a hero.


    I just


    My goal for this life was simple. I wanted to live like a real person. Like a real person, with a little more happiness. In the Tutorial Field, I had to turn away from many people in order to live, and I wanted to live without doing that as much as humanly possible.


    [A level up point has been used.]


    [Current level: 19]


    A notice came in at the same time as my level up.[Leaving the Seoul Station Dungeon.]


    * * *


    * * *


    So Yoohyun asked me for my number, which I simply gave.


    Im happy I got hyungnims number.


    I had no idea why he was so happy about it, but whatever. We exchanged numbers.


    Great. Hyungnim, have a safe trip back!


    As a yer, the most famous person was So Yoohyun. He would probably be the subject of the medias attention, and I told him to go along with it so that history would flow as close to the future I knew as possible. That way, I could make use of all the things I knew.


    I didnt exist in that future.


    But now, I did. I didnt know how or what this huge variable would change. Preventing the dungeon break was the right thing to do, but there was no need to change things beyond what was necessary. Plus, I stillcked the strength to protect myself.


    The Great Explorer, Jackson said it like this: a hidden sword is more frightening than a visible one. Until I had the means to be able to prove myself beyond reasonable doubt, I would hide myself, at least from the media. There was one person I did have to prove my worth to.


    I walked in in sight towards a certain building.


    The Sungshin headquarters.


    It was a massive 92-floor building in Gangnam. This was what Seo Joohwan had done in the past. He ran to the Sungshin headquarters and yelled I can treat the President! And as surprising as it was, Seo Joohwan was indeed able to meet the President of the Sungshin Group.


    Though, well, I didnt know I would end up meeting that spoiled brat here.


    Ah, fuck, what the hell.


    What happened was this: I ended up getting into the same section of the revolving door with this kidhe looked like a middle school student. That appeared to greatly displease him. He tantly blocked his nose with a silk handkerchief, as if not wanting to breathe in the same air as me.


    When we got into the headquarters building, he grabbed a man who happened to be passing by and impolitely pped his mouth. They were quite a distance away from me, but I could still hear everything.


    Whats with that dirty guy? Who the helles here looking so piss-poor? This is Sungshins headquarters, dammit.


    He was wearing what appeared to be the uniform of a prestigious private elementary school, and it looked like silk. Even his uniform looked good and utterly exuded mor.


    If I didnt have my Herms handkerchief, I wouldnt have been able to breathe.


    Ah. That handkerchief was that Herms or whatever brand name. I chuckled to myself, actually more dumbfounded than angry. Did that kid really have any idea what he was saying?


    Song Jinchul.


    This no-good ass of the chaebol family was very famous.


    Goodness, so he was like that from a young age.


    He wouldter go on to cause small and big scandals alike due to alcohol and women. He was from the chaebol third generation that was often said to be problematic. More specifically, he was the youngest grandson of a chaebol family. What was it again? He kept pushing back the talent tes examination that could be done at 14, saying it was fine, and finally did it at 19, or something like that.


    I think I heard he had like 44 talent tes.


    When he finally had the exam done, it was about the time for his talent tes to close, but he still had a whole 44 tes. The world was truly unfair. Someone like me had No Talent and was someone who didnt have talent even though I desperately wanted it, yet this guy had a whopping 44 talent tes even though he loudly protested, saying it was a pain.


    Song Jinchul spoke to the middle-aged man bowing and scraping in front of him. Is he a janitor? Tell him to go around with something decent. Dudes so frickin unfashionable its disgusting. How can a person wear absolute cheap shit from top to bottom like that? Its so nasty to breathe the same air.


    He was definitely saying those words about me. To be fair, he wasnt wrongI had neither expensive clothes nor shoes. I did my best to be cleanly dressed, but in the eyes of a chaebol familys youngest grandson, it looked like I was wearing cheap shit. I figured that was just how it was. Compared to the future Song Jinchul, the current Song Jinchul simply seemed cute.


    The man bowed deeply. Understood, Young Master. I will be sure to give him a firm warning. I deeply apologize for making you feel ufortable. We will be more careful going forward.


    Thats right. Take care of these things better, hear?


    I will be doubly sure to keep that in mind.


    In the meantime, I checked Jinchuls information once.


    [Unawakened]


    Name: Song Jinchul


    Age: 14


    State: Calm / Conceited / Disdainful


    Disposition: Arrogant / Destructive / Selfish


    Summary: Self-Proimed Chosen One<ul><li>


    Is unawakened.</li><li>


    The state/disposition/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li>


    Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    As I thought, his name was Song Jinchul. Maybe because his grandpa was in the office, he was in a calm state. His disposition was arrogant and destructive, and his summary was set as Self-Proimed Chosen One.


    Hes the same age as Sunhwa.


    So to summarize the year 1 middle school student Song Jinchul, he was a self-proimed chosen one who was arrogant, destructive, and selfish, to boot.


    Lets not bother with him.


    What I had to pay attention to wasnt the young Jinchul. I did want to squash the suckers nose in once if I had the chance one day, but it wasnt the kid I should be cursing, but the chaebol second generation that had raised him to be that way.


    What kinds of things had this young 14-year-old seen and learned to be like that? This wasnt the kids fault, but the fault of the adults.


    Jinchul went up in the elevator, and the middle-aged man who had been bowing to him walked towards me.


    How may I help you?


    I can treat the Presidents illness.


    Seo Joohwan had apparently said the same thing. The mans face went hard upon hearing me.


    There have already been over ten people who havee here iming that.


    But no one managed to actually do it, right?


    After all, the Presidents illness was none other than male-pattern baldness. The name of the Type B Recovery Elixir I picked was actually Extremely Effective Hair Growth Solution.


    The President is a strict person. Can you take responsibility for your words, sir?


    He was totally looking at me like I was a scammer. There wasnt a trace of faith in his eyes. That was only natural. Over ten people had already done something simr. Despite that, seeing as he was still taking me upstairs, the Sungshin President was apparently rather desperate.


    Allow me to guide you there. Please follow me.


    He turned briskly and walked away. His back, which had bent so severely towards Song Jinchul, didnt look very happy.State: Doubtful / Humiliated / Persevering


    I could see the wrinkly back of the middle-aged mans hand. There was a big wedding ring on his left hand.Summary: A Korean Father


    Of course this man didnt want to bow and scrape and hear curses from a mere 14-year-old fledgling, either. It was all in order to live as a father in Korea. That was why he endured this humiliation. It wasnt right, but everyone lived like that, as wretched as it was.


    Fight on.


    I got into the elevator with the man. I didnt know if the President had given the order to let me up, but I was taken directly to his office.


    <em>Knock, knock.</em>


    President. I have brought a guest.


    I went inside,ing face to face with the first generation president of the Sungshin Group, Song Kiyoung. He started with nothing and turned Sungshin into the massivepany it was now. He was a self-made businessman who established the number onepany in Korea. Later, he would y a leading role in the creation of the yers Association and be the first generation yers Association Chairman.


    Nice to meet you. I am Song Kiyoung.


    And when I saw him, I was greeted with a slightly unexpected situation.


    Huh? What?

 Chapter 26: Flash Gate - Underground Tunnel

    Chapter 26: sh Gate - Underground Tunnel


    Many people described Song Kiyoung as a scary person.


    Apparently, if this person was in front of you, youd find yourself nervous and scared, or something like that. It was public knowledge that he had a strange ability to make people tense.


    I felt like I had an inkling as to why.


    Song Kiyoung was a yer, too.


    It was something no one had known. After all, President Song hadnt revealed it. Although he had awakened as a yer, he didnt do any ying.


    [yer]


    Name: Song Kiyoung


    Age: 68


    Level: 11


    ss:


    Guardian:


    Innate Ability: [Charisma] [Pressure]


    State: Hope / Doubt / Fatigue


    Disposition: Progressive / Neutral


    Summary:<ol><li>Magnanimous Man of Reasonable Doubt</li><li>Doting Grandparent</li></ol><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">ss has not yet been selected.</li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">Guardian has not yet been selected.</li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">The state/disposition/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul></li></ul>


    Through Eye of Perception, I was able to discover something interesting.


    Charisma? Pressure?


    My current level was 19, and President Songs was 11. Perhaps because there was a big level difference between us, I could even see his innate abilities. He was only level 11. It was very curious that President Song had already awakened his innate ability when we had just gotten through the Tutorial and he hadnt even yed.


    And hes even got two.


    As expected, a dragon was a dragon.


    This is the cure. I extended the Type B Recovery Elixir. I am a yer. I believe you need no exnation on what a yer is.


    I see.


    The man on the sofa fixed his piercing gaze on the Type B Recovery Elixir I presented.


    It should be possible to activate the item description. If the President has awakened as a yer, that is.


    I am not a yer.


    Right Not a yer, <i>right</i>.


    In that case, I will exin the effects for you.


    The Type B Recovery Elixir was, by all ounts, a hair growth solution. It could make hair grow lushly on your head. Seo Joohwan used this to get a billion won, aka $1 million, from Song Kiyoung.


    His summary said it all.<ol><li><ol><li aria-level="1">Magnanimous Man of Reasonable Doubt </li></ol></li></ol>


    This person was generous. If you gave him something he wanted, he would give an appropriate reward in full.


    Simply ingesting it will make your hair grow.


    How much growth?


    Certainly as much as you want.


    Song Kiyoung nced at me.


    [Eye of Perception detects an Innate Ability.]


    [The Innate Ability Charisma is active.]


    I could feel the President''s intensity through Eye of Perception.


    My heart feels a bit itchy.


    I didnt feel scared or fearful like people described.


    Come to think of it, I think I heard your hearts supposed to feel electrifyingly tingly when you talk to Song Kiyoung.


    He had an innate ability called Charisma, but he was only level 11. I wasnt all that intimidated. I at least knew that this effect was the power of his innate ability.


    I do not tell lies. And Im not so bold as to lie to the president of Sungshin.


    I looked straight into President Songs eyes. After a moment, he chuckled.


    It seems to me that your assertion that you are not bold is a lie. I feel like it has been a truly long time since Ive seen someone be so confident in front of me.


    The way President Song looked at me changed a little. It was a minute change, but I could definitely feel it.


    What is it that you desire? he asked directly.


    I didnt intend on asking for pure cash.


    I would like one condo and a little money.


    A normal person might have yelled You must be nuts!, but not Song Kiyoung.


    A condo and money?


    In a newly constructed apartmentplex located near the Digital Media City. A condo costs about 900 million won.


    A condo, huh?


    Song Kiyoung looked me straight in the eye.


    [Eye of Perception detects an Innate Ability.]


    [Detecting the Innate Ability Pressure.]


    I received a notice from Eye of Perception.


    A sense of oppression pressed down on me, and it became a little difficult to breathe. I confirmed the true nature of the innate ability called Pressure.


    It feels like Im wearing a slightly thick face mask? It was exactly around that level. Its nothing much.


    To be honest, the effect was so light it was almostughable. It made senseI was nearly twice his level.


    Im clear on the condo. How much money do you want?


    The condos market price was around 900 million won, or around $900,000. Seo Joohwan received 1 billion won, $1 million, in cash for this elixir. I didntplicate things.


    I would like 100 million won.


    Song Kiyoung continued to stare at me, almost as if probing my intent. It wasnt just a simple stare. He used his abilities as a yer on me for a good ten minutes.[Still detecting the use of Pressure.]


    Time passed in silence.


    It seems youre not lying. Song Kiyoung stood up. Very well. I will try believing you once.


    The president of Sungshin, who seemed unaware that Pressure didnt affect me at all, continued with a warning. Well write the contract immediately. But if your words are a lie, then you will have to pay the price for robbing me of an entire forty minutes of my time.


    I nodded. I wasnt all that scared of his warningI was already very ustomed to the new technology of the System. Feeling rxed, I added something I almost forgot to say.


    I would like the world not to know of me. I dont want any attention.


    I chose a different path from Seo Joohwan, who had decorated the newspaper headlines.


    Alright.


    That left just one more thing to say.


    One more thing.


    * * *


    I left Sungshins headquarters with a light heart.


    I thought Id be super nervous, but


    I had swung through the meeting with far more leisure than expected. The past me probably wouldnt have even been able to meet the mans eyes, but Hyukjin the regressor was different. Now, the aura exuded by the Sungshin President wasnt anything much.


    The trade isplete.


    The name of the apartment I asked for was DMC Riverview Xi. Later, when the Korean yers Association sprang up in the vicinity, the value of this cream of the crop apartment would skyrocket. It would be the safest ce in the country, an apartment building that would be andmark in Korea. I didnt ask for this ce just because of the price jump or the money.


    And if I need money in three years, I can sell it then.


    In three years, the yers Association would already be mostly established, and the DMC Riverview Xi condo would be a nest egg I could cash in at any time. I might not have gotten cash from the President, but this condo was basically the same as getting cash.


    Ill need a billion won in three years.


    My final bastion was prepared. I now had a property I could convert into cash at any time.


    More than anything


    Our family no longer needed to squeeze together in a half-underground room. My older sister, whod been getting up at the break of dawn to support me, could have her own room now.


    My moms lifelong wish was to live in a real apartment once. I would finally be able to realize her wish.


    Well have a home to call our own.


    We had been anxious that we might be kicked out of even that tiny half-subterranean room because of the possibility that every two years, the rent would increase, but now, that was a worry of the past. Because in my hand right now was the contract.


    The president of Sungshin had been truly amazed.


    "I cant believe it. Is this the new technology?"


    He was no longer bald. He was frozen in front of the mirror for a long time. He called up his secretary on the spot and had him find out about the DMC Riverview Xi. For the president of Sungshin, buying a single condo was no big deal.


    "Of course. I agree to all of those contract conditions. Secretary Kim! Come into the bathroom."


    Everything was handled with lightning speed. There happened to be an empty condo for sale, and Secretary Kim was able to purchase it right away.


    "Ah. And about that child named Kang Sunhwa. If she wants it, assist in her adoption to a woman named Lee Soohyun. Ensure there are no setbacks."


    Like a true magnanimous person, President Song settled everything quickly. My mom kept saying she wanted Sunhwa to live with us, so I asked him to help in the adoption proceedings. For my mom, for Sunhwa, and for me.


    Going into dungeonster will be way easier if were brother and sister, too.


    She was a genius among geniuses whose talent tes hadnt even fully opened yet. Keeping Sunhwa by my side had many plusses for me as well. More than anything, it was true that I wanted to protect her.


    Im sure Sungshin has realized the potential of new technology now, too.


    I had to keep the general flow of the timeline the same. Due to Seo Joohwan, Sungshin became very interested in the new technology. Under President Songs lead, Sungshin provided active support to yers and unfurled business ventures rted to yers, all because President Song had the chance to experience the marvels of the new technology for himself.


    Theyll move quickly now.


    It was the same as the past. Things had progressed like that in the past, too. In the same big events, I would do the best I could.


    Not long afterwards, I got a text.[Digital dispatch. Korean Bank. 100,000,000 won deposited.]


    I could hardly believe it. In my hand, I held the condo ownership contract, and in my bank ount, was 100 million won, or $100k. It was difficult to believe this was reality. It really didnt feel real.


    Still marveling, I walked quite a distance until I reached Hongje-dong, a neighborhood in Seoul. I waited about fifteen minutes in front of a certain building.


    Noona. Youre off work?


    The ultimate boss of tsunderes, my older sister, stared at me up and down like she was looking at a ghost.


    What do you want?


    I just dropped by somewhere and was going home, and it coincided with you getting off work, so I wanted to go home with you.


    My sister didnt really respond. She acted as if I were a huge pain in the ass, turning around and walking to the bus stop, her attitude utterly frosty.State: Good mood / Relieved / Happy


    Shed probably wanna die if she knew I was reading her mood, right?


    I inwardly grinned.


    Whats with the relief?


    I guessed it was a residual emotion from the relief of my being alive, because I had been one of the few toe back alive from the Cataclysm.


    The bus is here.


    The two of us got on the bus, and Eye of Perception immediately picked up on the gazes of people. Actually, even before I had Eye of Perception, I had been keenly aware of peoples looks. My sister was someone who could draw the eyes of everyone in the room despite not having a trace of makeup on her face. My sister and I didnt pay much attention to those gazes.


    Noona. How about we move?


    Got a lotta money?


    Yeah. About 100 million won.


    You drunk? Wake up.


    Im serious though?


    My sister clearly dismissed my words as pure nonsense. She didnt even bother responding and just stared fixedly out the window.


    I knew, of course, that my sister wanted to move. She wanted to move out of the house where cockroaches came skittering out with every thump. She just didnt show it.


    Like the brother and sister we were, we didnt talk. My sister just kept looking out the window, and so did I. It was totally fine even if we didnt talk. The silence wasnt awkward between us.


    Shed probably faint if she knew this paper in my hand is the new condo contract.


    And if she also found out there was 100 million won in my bank ount? I felt happy just imagining her reaction.


    Noona.


    What?


    Ill make it so we can move to a nice ce.


    My sister continued to look out the window.


    Lets live in a good ce from now on. Ill make it so you can also quit your job.


    You dont have to get something like leukemia in the future. You dont have to work at a factory because we have no money.


    Today, lets go with mom and


    I was about to propose going out to eat with the family, but at that moment, I found myself unable to continue.


    Huh?


    I saw something outside the window. A golden light was shimmering next to a roadside tree. It didnt look like the people passing by could see it. That was only naturfter all, they werent yers. That light could only be seen by yers.


    A sh gate?


    The Seoul Station Dungeon had just been cleared. Did a sh gate form in Hongje-dong at this time before? Ibed through my memories and had a very faint recollection of something.


    Yes. There was one.


    It wasnt considered important on the civil servant exam, simply and briefly described as a gate in the early stage that was cleared by the Sword Empress.


    The weak golden light shimmering next to the tree, and the woman standing in front of it I knew her.


    Noona. Theres something urgent I have to do, so Im getting off first.


    The strongest juggernaut of PVP, a yer so strong you would have nothing to fear from if you were on the same side as her. The yer of Two Faces.


    I had found the Sword Empress Shin Yeonseo, along with a very small sh gate.

 Chapter 27: Flash Gate - Underground Tunnel (2)

    Chapter 27: sh Gate - Underground Tunnel (2)


    My sister also got off the bus with me.


    Youre also getting off, noona?


    Ya. Might as well get some exercise. Ill walk.


    Got it.


    Noona walked off, and I quickly strode off towards Shin Yeonseo.


    She does look pretty young.


    The woman I was looking at now was very different from the Shin Yeonseo during the peak of her activity, in 2028. Other than the fact that she had a cute and pretty appearance that would draw attention in any crowd, the 20-year-old Sword Empress didnt look all that special.


    A tennis skirt?


    She was dressed up pretty adorably, to the degree that I couldnt even imagine the Sword Empress of 2028 wearing such a thing. She was wearing a light yellow, short sleeved t-shirt with a heart on it and a white tennis skirt, as well as an ivory reusable bag like any other university student.


    Shes cute.


    We were the same age, but she looked two or three years younger than me. The Sword Empress who had taken the battlefield by storm in that famous Battle of the Maldives was not here.


    [yer]


    Name: Shin Yeonseo


    Age: 20


    Level: 19


    ss:


    Guardian:


    Innate Ability: [Single Hit Finisher]


    State: Curious / Fearful / Having fun


    Disposition: Inquisitive / Daring / Positive


    Summary: Pure, Easily Lovestruck Girl with Two Faces<ul><li>ss has not yet been selected.</li><li>Guardian has not yet been selected.</li><li>The state/disposition/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li>Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible</li></ul>


    Shes outstanding.


    She was already level 19 and even had an innate ability.


    As if anyone would use you of not being a top-ss talent.


    Her speed of growth matched Fist King So Yoohyuns. There was no doubt, ying required talent. You couldnt stand at the top with effort alone. Even from the low-level period, there was already such a ring difference between her and ordinary yers. Her level was proof enough of that.


    Her summarys confusing.


    A pure, easily lovestruck girl with two faces? I was a little confused because the word was hardly used in 2028, but I remembered the meaning. Basically, it was a person who falls in love easily, or something like that.


    I heard Shin Yeonseos voice.


    Is it okay to go in?


    She appeared to be contemting whether to go in or not. It looked like she was talking to someone, so I assumed she was talking to an Intermediate Administrator I couldnt see.


    This is a gate the Sword Empress cleared.


    sh gates had simr traits to dungeons. If they werent cleared in time, the gate would copse, and monsters woulde spilling out.


    Well, Im sure it wont be that hard.


    I had already cleared the Seoul Station Dungeon. A gate was easierpared to a dungeon. That was the established theory, at least. The interior structure wasparatively simple, and the clear conditions werent all thatplicated.


    I took the initiative to start a conversation with her. Are you thinking about going inside?


    H-Hello!


    Shin Yeonseo looked very lively. As she dipped in a bow to greet me, her hair swished. Wed only exchanged one greeting, but she gave me the feeling of being very outgoing.


    Um Do you know much about this thing?


    This is called a gate. If it isnt cleared in time, monsters wille out of it.


    I did hear that from the Intermediate Administrator, but do you think its really true?


    It was. Originally, the Seoul Station Dungeon also ended up breaking a few times. It simply didnt this time because I cleared it in one shot.


    But regardless, there would be breaks elsewhere.


    As time passes, gates will break out here and there.


    I couldnt cover all the gates and dungeons on my own.


    Shin Yeonseo asked, What is your level?


    I shrugged. This was before the Ranking Board went up.


    Oh, right. That reminded me, I had to change my settings in advance before the Ranking Board went up. If I didnt, it would be possible to read my info. Settings.[Opening the Settings Window.]


    Info sharing off.[yer info has been changed to private.]


    For now, I was someone who hadnt existed in the past. Since I didnt know what kind of butterfly effects my presence would have, I changed my info settings to private. At least for now.


    19, I said.


    Really?


    Shin Yeonseos eyes went round. Her diverse and ever-changing expressions, along with her blinking eyes, made her look like a bunny.


    The Intermediate Administrator said my level up speed is incredibly fast and she said I might be the fastest one


    Whats your level?


    Im also 19! Wow. Theres another person like me, huh? Awesome!


    She was praising herself without any sense of pretense, so I couldnt really dislike her for it.


    In any case, Im nning on going in.


    W-Will it be alright?


    This woman was not yet the Sword Empress, but an ordinary university student.


    You betcha.


    The past records said that Shin Yeonseo cleared this gate on her own. It wouldnt be that hard.


    I think so, yes. Even a dungeon was cleared.


    B-But that was because the Tutorial Ender was there


    <i>Miss, even that amazing Tutorial Ender So Yoohyun would be no match for you in one on one.</i> I almost wanted to tell her that. It felt weird to see Shin Yeonseo the Sword Empress being all nervous about a gate in a beginner zone.


    We could go in as a party, then.


    Just then, Senia showed herself. It seemed she had gotten the news from Yeonseos Streamer that I was ying.


    Yourete.


    I had purposely waited a little. Since I was going to y anyway, I might as well get the eyes of the Guardians on me and get sponsorships, right?


    And weve got two Streamers here, too.


    I could only see Senia, but the Sword Empress Streamer was definitely here as well. Her Streamer, Roa, was poised to be an extremely famous Streamer.


    She was sponsored by many influential Guardians. In other words, it was possible I could catch the eye of a few of the Guardians who had supported the Sword Empress in the past.


    Woah. Oppa. You speak down to your Intermediate Administrator?


    Thats awesome.


    <i>Excuse me, were the same age, so why am I your oppa? Youre calling me oppa without even asking my age, miss.</i>


    Im 20.


    Of course, I had the mentality of a 30-year-old uncle on the inside, but it didnt change the fact that right now, I was 20.


    Oh, really? I thought you were definitely older than me.


    She broke out into a big grin, giving me the smiling eyes that had condemned countless men to a fate as Sword Empress crushers. Seeing it in person made me think she really was worth crushing on. Looking at that radiant, sunny smile made the world seem so much brighter. At least, that was how she looked on the outside.


    Is that why shes got [Two Faces]?


    The normal Sword Empress vs. the Sword Empress in battle. It was said that the two werepletely different people. I didnt know since Id never seen her fight, but looking at her summary, it seemed she really did have something like a dual personality.


    After finding out that we were the same age, Yeonseo became a little more proactive. Ill send you a party invite! I also wanted to go in.


    * * *


    Kim Ahyoung got off the bus. She went into a nearby convenience store, buying some chocte and putting it in her bag.


    Huh?


    For a moment, she felt her vision dim. She reached out her hand on the spot. Because not far from her, her little brother whod been talking to some woman was suddenly sucked into the tree by the roadside.


    <i>Thud!</i>


    She dropped her bag.


    No.


    She remembered. The Jongno of April 28, 2018. Her little brother miraculously came back from there alive, and afterwards, the world turned strange. Monsters appeared, as well as Intermediate Administrators who killed people. It seemed her little brother was getting sucked into some weird ce again. Ahyoung ran to the roadside, standing at the ce where she hadst seen him.


    Where did you go?


    <i>Stop joking ande out, </i>she pleaded. Her heart dropped and grew cold. He had suddenly disappeared again. For Kim Ahyoung, who didnt know anything, this was a natural reaction. She felt her mind grow nk with panic. For that one week while her brother was missing, for those seven days of the Tutorial, she hadnt been able to swallow a single proper spoonful of rice.


    Where the hell did you go, you crazy bastard?!


    Her back to the tree, Ahyoung slumped to the ground, as if losing all strength. Her body feltpletely limp. She mumbled in a daze, Ill kill you when you get back.


    She couldnt think. She just sat there.


    I wont give you any chocte, dammit. You little bastard.


    She had just bought the chocte her brother liked, nning to toss it onto his nket. But now, she didnt want to give it to him anymore. She tried calling his phone a few times, but she only heard a message saying, Your call cannot be connected.


    Please. Please, let nothing happen.


    Ahyoung cried while leaning on the tree. Time passed.


    Meanwhile, Kim Hyukjin, who possessed a transcendent level of sense for ying but was otherwise not all too meticulous, went into the gate with Shin Yeonseo.


    I think a gate is far simpler in structure than a dungeon, he said.


    He was talking to Yeonseo, but at the same time, he was also saying it to the Guardians who were watching.


    Yeonseo smiled brightly. Were the same age, so how about dropping the formalities?


    Hyukjin turned to stare at her, and her earlobes became slightly red. She gave a faintugh of embarrassment. Many people described her smile as a cheat-level smile, and Hyukjin was able to feel that with his own eyes.


    Hello?


    Regarding dropping the formalities, Ill consider it if we get out of here alive first.


    Yeonseos expression became a little stiff at that. Jongno had been a terrifying ce for her as well. She was able to adapt quickly to ying thanks to her outstanding talent, but it wasnt like she hadpletely shed her fear from that time yet. She would need a little more time topletely adapt. It wasnt that she wascking in any way, it was just that Kim Hyukjin was unique and strange.


    Meanwhile, Yeonseos Intermediate Administrator, Roa, sent a whisper to Senia.<ul><li>Excuse me, Ms. Senia. Whats with that yer? He said he was level 19.</li><li>His info is set to private.</li></ul>


    It was currently the early stage of ying. Thepetition between Streamers hadnt gone into full swing yet, but the veiled fight between the Streamers to acquire quality content was well underway.<ul><li>Come now, dont be like that. Did you tell him in detail about the difference between a dungeon and gate, Ms. Senia?</li><li></li><li>Otherwise, he couldnt have realized the difference between them with a single look. A yer of that level cant have that much intuition yet, right?</li><li></li><li>Were not allowed to get too involved in their ying.</li><li>I havent done anything that goes against the Commandments, so please mind your own business.</li></ul>


    In fact, Senia was the more curious one here. How in the world did Kim Hyukjin know the difference between a gate and dungeon? She had never told him. It seemed Roa had gotten the whiff of something big.<ul><li>Ill stream that yer, too. Well, I can stream whoever I want, but Im just letting you know, to be ethical about it.</li><li>You cannot.</li><li>Why not?</li></ul>


    Senia stared at Roa. She was as expressionless as ever, but Roa was able to read confidence from Senias face, a faint confidence within that expressionlessness. It came off looking like a sort of sense of superiority, and the fact that it was indeed superiority was proven by Senias next words.<ul><li>Because yer Kim Hyukjin has already signed an exclusive contract with me.</li><li>Eh? Exclusive contract?</li></ul>


    Roa stared ck-jawed at Senia. An exclusive contract could only be made with three yers total.<ul><li>Youve already signed something like that? Seriously? Something you can only do three times?</li></ul>


    Roa was shocked. Senia had already used one of her three chances. Roa also got a whiff of something extraordinary from that yer, but it was still too early toe to a hasty conclusion.<ul><li>Theres a very high chance he could be an early bloomer but you already used one?</li><li>Its none of your business.</li></ul>


    Senia ended the conversation there.[Anonymous Guardians are entering Channel #19207 in great numbers.]


    Several Guardians also jumped from Roas channel to Senias. That meant the Guardians also had an interest in yer Kim Hyukjin.


    Meanwhile, Hyukjin continued to walk. The Safe Zone goes up to this green line.


    Yessir, Safe Zone, roger that.


    Yeonseo nodded, acting like an elementary school student learning something fun. Hyukjin walked past the green line.


    [Leaving the Safe Zone.]


    [You have entered the sh Gate  Underground Tunnel.]


    This gates name


    Is Underground Tunnel.


    It didnt look that dangerous.


    I should check once.


    He nced behind him. The door they hade in through was still there.


    Because its not escape locked.


    If things got dangerous, they could still escape. The gate didnt seem to have a very high difficulty. This field called Underground Tunnel took the shape of a big clearing.[Monsters are spawning.]


    With that notice, various spots in the clearing began to shimmer.


    Huh?


    But something unexpected showed up.


    Those thingse out here?

 Chapter 28: Flash Gate - Underground Tunnel (3)

    Chapter 28: sh Gate - Underground Tunnel (3)


    I was progressing well. Way better than I thought.


    After all, I could feel that even the Sword Empress, the strongest in 1 vs 1 PVP, was weaker than me, at least right now. I was progressing well, but it was still true that I hadnt gotten out of the beginner level yet.


    You have to reach level 30 to stand at the real starting line.


    Real ying could be seen to start from level 40 and onward, at least ording to the standards of the future.


    Leveling from 30 to 40 isnt easy.


    At level 30, there werent that many monsters good for leveling, and fast level ups were difficult. From that point, leveling demanded continuous grinding.


    Lycanthropes that are on the high EXP side have way too low cost-effectiveness.


    Unless there was something like a creek nearby, Lycanthropes were difficult to kill. People with a lot of money actually just went around with fire trucks and hunted them, but even that wasnt all that effective. Lycanthropes were only level 25. They didnt merit such exaggerated tactics in the level 30s.


    But its a different story if I have these guys.


    I saw the monsters in front of me. Three of them were huddled together. They were huge rabbit-type monsters. Monster Rabbit LVL 18


    Monster Rabbit LVL 20


    The two male Monster Rabbits were level 18, and the female Monster Rabbit was level 20.


    Yeonseo said to me, One of them ising up as red. Is it like a boss monster?


    Her level was 19. It appeared she wasnt able to check the level of the level 20 female Monster Rabbit.


    They dont look all that strong mumbled Yeonseo to herself.


    She was right. They werent very strong monsters. It didnt always apply, but normally, a monsters strength tended to be reflected to a certain degree in their appearance. Most rabbit-type monsters were weak. They might have be huge, but they were still confined to the constraints of the rabbit category.


    Might be different if they were Demon Realm Rabbits.


    A bunny inhabiting a field set as a different dimension entirely might be different, but these guys were still rabbits, even if they had monster attached to their name.


    The problem is that theyre really tough to catch.


    They had a habit of running away when they sensed danger. That was fine, but the problem was that they were so fast it was difficult to catch them. Because they fled through underground tunnels, unless you had an earth-attribute yer, these monsters were practically impossible to catch.


    I looked closely at Shin Yeonseo.


    She cleared this gate on her own.


    That meant she had a method to catch these monsters.


    But Im sure she just cleared it.


    Simply clearing this gate was meaningless. I had to catch as many of those Monster Rabbits as possible. They were monsters that were absolutely necessary forter ying, for level 30-40 ying.


    I never thought Id end up meeting them here.


    I felt my mood go up, and I wasnt the only one feeling happy.


    How about it? Shall we try catching them? It looks fun.


    She seemed a little excited. Her cheeks had be ruddy, but her cuteness wasnt the only thing I noticed.


    So the Sword Empress was always this way, starting from the low levels.


    This, too, was the influence of talentthat she felt curiosity, not fear, towards a new monster. She might look cute, but there was surely an incredible battle instinct lurking within. The whole person changed as soon as there was a sword in her hand. Some people even gave her the nickname Rakshasa, aka demon.


    Sounds good to me, I said before giving an exnation. Rabbits usually have a tendency to run away when theyre in danger. It would be best to kill them in one shot if possible. Do you think you can do it?


    <i>For example, with your innate ability Single Hit Finisher.</i>


    Yeonseo innocently thumped her chest. Of course! I even have a skill that kills in one blow.


    The two of us hunted the Monster Rabbits. Killing them in itself wasnt hard. The only attacks they had were kicking with their hind legs or biting with their fangs, so they werent all that dangerous.


    Now.


    That instant, Yeonseos sword glowed blue. For a very brief moment, it looked like her body whooshed backwards.


    <i>Swoosh!</i>


    The whistle of air being sliced rang out.


    A straight trajectory of blue light was traced in the air.


    Its fast.


    Her movements were fast. For the briefest moment, Yeonseos body had shot backwards like a bullet, like her sword was almost a spear.


    Thats the Sword Empress innate ability, Single Hit Finisher.


    It was already astonishing that shed already awakened an innate ability at level 19, but it was also surprising that she could use it so well.


    [Monster Rabbit has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [26 Coins acquired.]


    One Monster Rabbit died, and the other two fled. I clicked the Monster Rabbits body.[There are no dropped items.]


    It was a bit of a shame. Monster Rabbits dropped lifesteal items, and at a very high rate. Lifestealer items were absolutely necessary in order to quickly get through the level 30-40 stretch that was called the 1st Hell Phase''.


    Aw. They all ran away.


    Shin Yeonseo looked like she sincerely found it regretful. Here, I could feel it again, that this girl was really born to be a yer, that she truly enjoyed this. That was why she waster given the grandiose nickname of Sword Empress.


    * * *


    Theyll respawn quickly, Im sure.


    But, um, Mr. Hyukjin? Hyukjin? Ah, whatever. Lets just drop the formalities. Whatever. Im just gonna be casual with you. Were like friend-age. Its actually he embarrassing to speak politely when were the same age, she mumbled quickly to herself before simply deciding to drop the formalities.


    Did you always know about this ce? Have you been here before?


    Hyukjin also naturally dropped the formalities. It wasnt all that important to him.


    Its my first time, though?


    That was the truth. It was just that he knew most of the strategies of the future.


    Really? Its your first time?


    Yeonseos eyes grew wide. It was hard to believe this woman and the woman who unleashed Single Hit Finisher on a Monster Rabbit just now was the same person.


    But how can you be so calm? To me, it looked like you already knew a lot about this ce.


    Thats


    The air began to shimmer again, right on cue. It saved me from talking, since Monster Rabbits appeared again.


    Lets keep catching these guys.


    Got it.


    Yeonseo seemed to subconsciously trust me quite a lot. She followed my lead without protest. The two of us continued to hunt Monster Rabbits.


    [Monster Rabbit has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [25 Coins acquired.]


    After we hunted around eight of them, an item dropped.


    [Quality Iron Sword]


    An iron sword that has likely been made by a fairly high-level craftsman. It has excellent durability and attack power.


    Grade: Normal


    Attack Power: 7-18


    Durability: 300/300


    Dammit. Something like this was meaningless. It was pretty decent for a beginner item and even had a durability meter, but I didnt need something like this.


    Mm.


    But I pretended to be troubled. There was one item, but two people.


    You have it, I said, as if doing her a kindness.


    Really?


    Yeah. It looks like youre better at the sword than me.


    For a moment, Yeonseo looked like she was wondering if it was really okay, but then she nodded.


    Got it. Ill take it with gratitude! In exchange, Ill definitely give you the next item thates out.


    She grinned, as if thinking she owed me one. That smile was certainly pretty.


    <i>Yeah,</i> I thought. <i>You take that trash loot. Ill take the lifesteal item, thanks.</i>


    [Legs Ring]


    A ring made by refining a topaz that holds a mysterious power.


    Defense: 1


    Effect: 2% attack damage HP absorption.


    It finally showed up. Yeonseo didnt recognize this items value.


    Ehhh, its only 2%?


    It was indeed only 2%. But it was possible to equip a total of ten rings, and it was even possible to strengthen them as long as you could satisfy the conditions.


    Yeonseo, who didnt know that, looked apologetically at me. Feels like only I got a good item.


    Were gonna keep hunting monsters anyway, so its fine.


    A long time passed. I didnt measure exactly how long, but at least five hours passed of doing the same thing. Apparently, the Guardians didnt find our ying very fun.


    [The Courageous Lion King is bored.]


    [The Nameless Observer has stopped observing.]


    [The Lady of the Scales finds the actions of the yers odd.]


    Normally, I would try to keep their interest up, but not right now. The frustration and repetition now would actuallye back as intense gratificationter.


    In that time, I acquired a whopping eight Legs Rings. My heart thumped. The only issue was that Yeonseo became a little uneasy.


    But isnt it taking too long? I feel like weve been doing the same thing for too long. Well be able to get out of here, right?


    If I kept too tight of a lid on the information, Yeonseos unease would hit a peak. The two of us were a team. There was no need to put a damper on the teams morale.


    Ive already found a way to go out.


    Hm? How?


    Her eyes grew round again. She looked up at me with such surprise that even her lips turned into an O. I really didnt understand how the gap between when she had her sword and didnt could be so big. I wasnt so sure about the easily lovestruck part, but the two faces part was definitely right.


    Over there.


    I pointed some distance away at a certain spot. It was dark.


    I dont see anything.


    A Clear Crystal has formed there.


    Like I expected, it wasnt a high difficulty gate. After killing a certain number of Monster Rabbits, a Clear Crystal would form. If that crystal was destroyed, the gate would be cleared, as simple as that.


    A Clear Crystal?


    We can get out if we destroy that.


    Aha. Then you dragged it out on purpose, huh?


    That was the moment Yeonseo seemed to have realized something. That in the beginner period, lifesteal items only dropped from these rabbits. Yeonseo stared absentmindedly at me. I could feel goodwill from her through Eye of Perception.


    And then, she said something Id never even considered.


    Is it because youre interested in me?


    She said it cheekily, but why did her ears redden? She should decide whether she was going to be cheeky or embarrassed, and not mix the two of them. What kind of answer did she want to hear?


    I was saved by the clock when a notice came in.[There are no more respawning monsters.]


    I was a bit sorry to hear it, but I was still able to acquire <i>nine</i> Legs Rings.


    [Monsters will not respawn.]


    [The Clear Crystal will be forcefully destroyed.]


    [sh Gate  Underground Tunnel has been cleared.]


    When a gate closed once, it wouldnt open ever again. That was another trait that differentiated gates from dungeons, which remained in ce.


    It had grown very dark outside. It looked like it was dawn.


    A lot of time has passed.


    At that moment, Eye of Perception picked up on two things.


    Huh?


    One was my sisters presence. My head whipped around, and I saw my sister, who was slumped on the ground with swollen eyes. I also felt another presence.


    Ah, fuck. What is it this time?


    The next moment, the world changed.

 Chapter 29: Duel with the Sword Empress

    Chapter 29: Duel with the Sword Empress


    Ah, fuck. What is it this time?


    I couldnt see my sister anymore. The view around me was simrempty cars, shops without any people, roadside tree my sister had been at.


    If the fields the same but theres no people, it can only be


    I knew what this field was.


    A PVP zone.


    PVP meant yer vs. yer. And a PVP zone referred to a space where duels between yers took ce.


    The one who created this is the Sword Empress Streamer.


    The Guardians watching over the Sword Empress probably put the Streamer up to it. And I knew who the Sword Empress Guardian was.


    The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain.


    He was the true master, the true owner, of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain. He was one of the few Guardians who revealed their identity of their own ord.


    The Sword Empress Guardian. Heavenly Demon. He, who revealed himself as the Lord of the Heavenly Demonic Cult, was famous as a Guardian with an extremely belligerent disposition.


    A courage-lover who likes ttery. However, he wasnt as reckless as the Lion King. One who enjoys personally meddling in the System.


    Of course, that also meant he had the strength to do so.


    A Guardian that doesnt skimp on sponsorships to both yers and Streamers. There was no doubt that he was the one who interfered. I think he issued a quest to Yeonseo to have a go at me.


    I finished evaluating the situation.


    Even in the worst case scenario, I wont die.


    I had already escaped death in the Tutorial Field, the Cataclysm of Jongno. Compared to there, a PVP zone was basically heaven. It would still hurt if you were hit and youd still bleed if you were pierced, but even in the worst situation, you wouldnt die. This ce was apletely different dimension.


    A special field where you revive, even if you die.


    Roa, Yeonseos Streamer, who would make it big as a Streamer in the future, appeared before us.


    At the request of the Guardians, specifically the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain, a PVP zone has been opened.


    At a nce, her image was simr to Shin Yeonseo. She was just 150 centimetres. She was extremely short, but her race called her a giant, or something like that. Roa was from the pixie race, and there were four pairs of transparent wings on her back. Whenever her wings fluttered, sparkly powder fell to the ground.


    Roa was very different from Senia. She knew how to make use of the situation. She energetically streamed the field to the Guardians.


    A genius who has caught the eye of the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain, versus a yer of unknown identity who has a strangely outstanding amount of knowledge and intuition. How will a battle between them go?


    I chuckled. On the contrary, Senia, the Streamer who had made an exclusive contract with me, was absolutely silent, even though such stoicism would make her really unpopr. But actually, I preferred this kind of Streamer, one whocked both talent and skill.


    Because she has no choice but to need me.


    Yeonseo looked at me. Sorry. I got a quest, so. But Im told you wont die, even if you get stabbed. Dont worry!


    I know. This is a PVP zone, after all.


    You know this, too? This is my first time seeing it.


    I just didnt think a PVP zone would be opened when the Guardian selections havent even happened.


    Guardian selections? Whats that?


    Theres something like that.


    Guardians, you heard that, right? I know about the Guardian selections, guys.


    [The Lady of the Scales expresses her surprise.]


    [The Whispering Devil is unable to repress his astonishment.]


    [The Courageous Lion King snorts.]


    [The Nameless Observer is silent.]


    Yeonseo pulled out the sword I conceded to her earlier and raised it.


    But Hyukjin. You let me have this sword earlier, right?


    I did.


    You gave it to me, saying you thought I was better at the sword than you.


    I did, and those words werent wrong. The moment I finished figuring out the situation, I had been thinking nonstop about how I should face the Sword Empress.


    Yeonseo was good at the sword, even now, when she was just a beginner. At the very least, if you just looked at our techniques for handling the sword, Yeonseo was several steps ahead of me. That was my honest judgment.


    But personally, I think youre no slouch yourself.


    How could that be the case? To begin with, the Tutorial Field was the first ce where I ever picked up a sword.


    How to say it? You dont feel like someone whos learned the sword.


    This is just my feeling, but it was kind of like seeing a genius. Youre swinging by instinct without having formally learnt, but youre pretty much a technique genius.


    That so?


    I was realizing that myself, but hearing it from the Sword Empress lips gave me a weird feeling. I also took out my Iron Sword. Then, I opened my Status Window. Ever since level 18, I had been steadily piling up my stat points.


    [Status Window]


    Name: Kim Hyukjin (yer)


    Level: 24


    Title: [First Pioneer] [Excellent yer]


    Innate Ability: [Eye of Perception] [Eye for an Eye, Tooth for a Tooth]


    Strength: 17


    Intelligence: 17


    Agility: 23


    Perception: 17


    Constitution: 17


    Willpower: 17(+30)


    Bonus stats: 18


    Random stats: 13


    Undistributed stats: 31


    I was level 24. A relevant fact I should mention was that I had 3 unused random stats when I was level 18. From level 18 to 24, over the course of 6 level ups, I got a whopping 10 random stats. From my knowledge, that was an absolutely unprecedented random stat acquisition rate.


    Even if Im an early blooming genius In any case, Im a genius.


    That was an undeniable fact. Numbers didnt lie. Shin Yeonseos level was also a number. Just looking at the numbers, the level difference between us was 5. And earlier, I had seen her ying firsthand.


    If I want to draw out a perfect picture itd be best to invest generously.


    [Strength +5]


    [Intelligence +5]


    [Agility +5]


    [Perception +5]


    [Constitution +5]


    I boldly invested 25 stats in one go. My performance would be very different from before.


    Strength: 22


    Intelligence: 22


    Agility: 28


    Perception: 22


    Constitution: 22


    Willpower: 17(+30)


    Bonus stats: 0


    Random stats: 6


    Undistributed stats: 6


    Yeonseo is fast.


    It might be that I had to raise my Agility more in order to beat Yeonseo. For now, I left 6 stats undistributed.


    Her fundamental techniques and skills are better.


    And my physical stats were better.


    Guess this is a fight between a woman with good techniques and a man with good physical parameters.


    The fun thing was that I wasnt that scared of PVPing with Yeonseo. There was definitely the chance I could lose, but on the flip side, I also felt like I could win. While this PVP process was underway, it would be best if I took every action avable to me.


    True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain. It appears the noble Guardian is one who encourages betrayal, without any sort of justification, seeing as you have issued a quest to have an ally betray the person they had fought with, the person they had entrusted their back to.


    Before the battle started, Roa approached me. She had picked up the smell of content.


    Did you just mention the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain by name? How did you know?


    You said it, didnt you? That it was the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain.


    Aha.


    This pixie, who was considered a huge giant for their race, Roa, looked like her eyes were positively sparkling. The reason why she was dragging out the beginning of the battle was probably to see how the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain would react.


    If its the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain I know


    This Guardian had freely asserted his identity as the Lord of the Million Heavenly Demonic Cult. He was a demon among demons who dominated the heavens with overwhelming strength as his foundation, a hero who pursued simple strength while disdaining injustice and cowardliness.


    A disposition that disdains betraying someones trust.


    Still, he was on the rather simple side when it came to his fundamental disposition.


    So Im sure he just got ahead of himself because of the fun in front of his nose.


    In any case, to them, our ying was merely an amusement, a game. It was difficult to really argue about faith or trust with them. However, the situation would change if you called out a being in the middle of this amusement by name.


    Even if its only out of pride, they cant defy their own standards and rules.


    <i>So, what will you do, oh True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain?</i>


    To make this duel fair and even, hell either strengthen me or weaken Yeonseo.


    However


    Weakening Yeonseo doesnt suit the True Masters disposition, so hell strengthen me.


    I fit all the puzzle pieces together.


    As far as they know, Yeonseo and I are the same level.


    If our levels were the same, in order to have a fair and even duel, he would have to give me some sort of buff on the techniques side of things.


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain wishes to bestow on you a temporary skill.]


    [You have been given the temporary skill Single Hit Finisher.]


    [The temporary skill can only be used within the PVP zone.]


    I almostughed in spite of myself.


    He really did it.


    I simply made a deduction based on the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountains disposition, but that deduction hit the bullseye. It was essentially like I had a strategy guide in my hand.


    Her Single Hit Finisher and my Single Hit Finisher, theyre the same.


    I wasnt very scared of the battle with the Sword Empress Shin Yeonseo, the woman who was called the Ruler of the Sword. It was a PVP zone where no one would die, anyway.


    Well, then, shall we have some fun?


    * * *


    I wont hold back.


    Yeonseo leveled her sword at Hyukjin. The moment she had her sword in her grip, the look in her eyes changed.


    The difference when she was holding her sword and when she wasnt was obvious. That was the trait that defined the Sword Empress, the martial spirit acknowledged by the Heavenly Demon who was the true master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain.


    A genius of PVP with a natural-born talent for the swordthat was Hyukjins evaluation of Shin Yeonseo.


    My whole body is tingling.


    He could feel it through Eye of Perception. Yeonseos aura was fierce. She was facing him with the intent to kill him. In other words, this feeling was bloodthirst, an intense energy seldom felt from a low-level yer not even at level 20.


    However, Hyukjin was not cowed by Yeonseos aura. His Eye of Perception was an innate ability with a base function of Calm Observers Eye, a catalyst that could maintain a cool head in any situation and allow him to take a step back to look at the situation objectively. Eye of Perception was very helpful in allowing Hyukjin to maintain hisposure.


    Shesing.


    Shin Yeonseo slightly lowered her body. Every movement of her body, her aura, her flow, he saw all of it.


    Here. To the left.


    Hyukjin took one step back and swung his Iron Sword, defending to the left. At this moment, he didnt see anything else. Here, there were only Yeonseo and him, him and Yeonseo. Only the two of them existed.


    <i>ng!</i>


    Sword shed on sword.


    With a little less strength.


    There was no need to expose all his cards. In terms of physical stats, Hyukjin was head and shoulders ahead. However, he didnt show that. To Yeonseo, the two of them were equally matched in strength.


    Her attack flowed organically, almost like a living snake.


    The trajectory is going for my side.


    But he had already seen through her with Eye of Perception.


    But her real target is my throat.


    That de seeminglying for his side would instantly switch its trajectory and aim for his throat. He read that naturally, with ease. This was, by all ounts, the influence ofbat sense. It was a sense for instinctively reading the opponents movements.


    Even so, there was no gap in Shin Yeonseos attacks.


    I cant see a way to counterattack.


    In that brief moment, Hyukjin jumped backwards, almost like he was pulled by a ma. It was a fluid, natural movement that widened the distance to a point where sword and sword could no longer touch.


    Yeonseo asked, You havent learned swordsmanship, have you?


    To Yeonseo, it felt like their physical abilities were equally matched. However, her sword technique was far superior. If so, she should be overwhelming him. That was how it should be, but she hadn''t been able tond a single real blow.


    To make such a result, it must be


    It could only be exined by one thing.


    The difference in sense.


    Or the difference in their talent. Yeonseo judged that this result could only be categorized as those two things.


    Ill be getting serious now, too.


    You werent serious before?


    To be honest, I was feeling a bit apologetic. It might be a PVP zone, but it still hurts and is scary to get stabbed.


    Such an expression probably didnt suit the situation, but Yeonseo smiled brightly. Her eyes narrowed. At least right now, Yeonseo saw Kim Hyukjin as her rival. At least in this moment, he was an opponent she wanted to ovee without fail. She recognized that.


    Hyukjin adjusted his sword position.


    How in the world can a fierceness like thate from an appearance like that?


    He still had a hard time believing that such an aura coulde from such a cute and adorable appearance. Hyukjin found himself rxing a little more.


    Now, Ive got the advantage.


    It seemed she had judged that their physical abilities were simr, and she woulde in with an attack befitting that evaluation. Hyukjins prediction was right on the mark.


    <i>ng! ng! ng!</i>


    Their swords shed.


    The distance between their swords widened and decreased as they fought a battle that could hardly be called a battle between regr people. Although there were no shy skills, martial arts, or foot techniques, it was, without a doubt, a battle of a level that was a rare sight in the beginner stage.


    Both Hyukjin and Yeonseo panted raggedly. Neither of them had been able tond a lethal hit. Hyukjin had been shed twice in the sides, Yeonseo twice in her left arm. Neither of them had injuries that would impede fighting.


    As the battle continued, Yeonseo had a feeling.


    Its my victory.


    At this very moment, her desire to win was set aze. She did not want to lose. She wanted to <i>win.</i> The driving force that had resulted in her growth into the Sword Empress, her desire to win, was endlessly spurring her on.


    Her eyes fixed themselves on Hyukjins throat.


    Now!


    She grasped a chance that wouldnte againan opening.[Using the Innate Ability Single Hit Finisher.]


    She had moved nonstop and had struck with her sword all this time for this one opening. For this moment, she had saved Single Hit Finisher. She could see an opening, and she aimed precisely for it. Her experience so far told her. This fight was her win.


    Huh?


    But just then, a situation so very different from Yeonseos expectations urred. A situation so very different from her expectations, but was exactly in line with the picture Hyukjin had drawn.

 Chapter 30: Duel with the Sword Empress (2)

    Chapter 30: Duel with the Sword Empress (2)


    Hyukjin had been painting a picture the entire time.


    In this fight of sword vs. sword, where the odds were stacked against him, he made it this far by making up for his rtiveck of technical ability with his advantage in physical stats. He held back, leaving the slightest amount of give.


    Now.


    Exactly at that moment, he moved faster than Shin Yeonseo. He lowered his body and charged forward as if going for a tackle, like he was using a wrestling move on her. From Yeonseos point of view, it looked like Hyukjin suddenly disappeared from sight.


    Fast!


    His movements werepletely different from before, far faster. There was only one exnation for this.


    He was hiding his strength?


    She was doing her utmost, but Hyukjin apparently hadnt been as transparent. It seemed that he had been saving his strength, waiting for this moment.


    He got me.


    Yeonseo was unable to redirect her sword. Single Hit Finisher, an innate ability bearing the meaning of killing the opponent without fail in one attack. It was a high-speed attack that pierced one spot with incisiveness and crity. But her attack did notnd. Her sword, which had struck forward, aiming for Hyukjins throat, ended up embedding itself in the roadside tree.


    That was exactly what Hyukjin wanted. Though theirs was a battle of sword vs. sword, Hyukjin knew how to use the objects in his surroundings to his advantage. While fighting Yeonseo, he had been inching closer and closer to the tree, all in order to paint this picture, in order to have a fight that wasnt a duel.


    Single Hit Finisher is fast.


    It was fast and precise. As long as the opponent moved within the predicted range, the skill could pierce the designated target with precision.


    It also has high killing power.


    It meant that you had to attack with a great deal of weight behind the blow.


    So when it fails, the risk is as high as its speed and strength.


    When it hit the mark, it would likely be a fatal blow, but if it failed to hit, it left arge margin for getting counterattacked. As fast andrge as the movement was, it would take time to regain bnce. In a case like this, with Yeonseo using the skill only to have it end with her sword lodged in a tree, she waspletely vulnerable to a counterattack.


    Hyukjins eyes clearly saw a spot. He pinpointed a gap in the defenses of the future Sword Empress, Shin Yeonseo.


    Now its my turn.


    Single Hit Finishera high-speed attack and the innate ability the Heavenly Demon who was the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain had allowed him to temporarily use.[Using the temporary skill Single Hit Finisher.]


    The target was one hair in front of Yeonseos throat.


    Kyaaa! Mommy!


    This woman might have the qualities to be the Sword Empress, but as of now, she still didnt have much real battle experience. Yeonseo fell backwards onto her butt.


    Hyukjin grinned. Its my win, right?


    Yeonseo reddened. She was embarrassed by the way shed whined when she was unable to dislodge her sword from the tree, and also embarrassed by the way shed fallen onto her butt just now.


    Yeah.


    Yeonseo knew as well as he did. If Hyukjin had truly struck her with the de, she would have died, no two ways around it. It might be fine to die since it was a PVP zone, but no human could truly be free from a fear of death.


    I lost.


    [yer Shin Yeonseo has acknowledged defeat.]


    [You have won a victory in the first PVP zone, the first PVP battle.]


    Man, if our Mrs. Han Myunghye had seen me just now, she wouldve been shocked, huh? I havent called for my mommy since elementary school, Yeonseo mumbled to herself in embarrassment.


    Hyukjin didnt hear her muttering. He tilted his head.


    The first PVP zone, first PVP battle?


    Was there always a notice like this?


    No, there wasnt.


    April 28, 2028. The notepad that had always been in his hand had been ced carefully in his Inventory. Whenever he had the time, he carefully looked through the notepad and organized the events of the future, making a new strategy guide. But in his notes, there was nothing rted to the first victory of the first PVP zone.


    Hyukjin helped Yeonseo to her feet.


    Theres a high chance it was originally Yeonseo who had the first victory.


    He came to that conclusion quickly. The Sword Empress had never been defeated by anyone other than Jo Sunghyun the Typhoon in a 1 vs. 1 PVP. She most likely received some kind of special bonus from the first PVP battle.


    And she kept it a secret from the world.[The title First Adversary is being generated.]


    Thanks. But man, youre really strong. You havent formally learned the sword either, right?


    How can someone who hasnt learnt be like this? And you hid your strength in the middle on purpose, right? Yourst movement waspletely different. I feel like you got a real one over on me.


    Yeonseos mumbling didnt reach Hyukjins ears.


    Another title?


    He got yet another title, something even rankers would seldom get.


    First Adversary.


    This was probably the title the Sword Empress was supposed to have gotten.


    [First Adversary]


    A title given to the yer who won in the first battle between yers.


    The Adversary holds a considerably advantageous high ground in battles with yers.


    Attack speed: +7%


    Movement speed: +4%


    Special Skill: Can use sh Step.


    Hyukjin was sure of it. <i>sh Step, </i>of all things,had appeared. It was a skill of an entirely different nature from other instantaneous movement magic-based spells like Blink or Warp. With absolutely zero use or flow of mana, it could allow you to change positions instantly, before your opponent could even notice what was happening.


    This formidable lightness technique, that had allowed the Sword Empress to shine radiantly in 1 vs. 1 PVP, this skill called sh Step, was relegated to Hyukjin.


    A skill the Sword Empress should have originally gotten


    He saw Yeonseo, who had already shaken off all her embarrassment and had a faint smile on her lips. Looking at that nearlypletely innocent smile, his emotions were a littleplicated.


    I got, instead.


    Thanks to his knowledge of the future, he ended up getting an ability that the Sword Empress was supposed to get.


    Im not sorry.


    He wasntpletely at ease, but that didnt mean he was extremely troubled, either. The Sword Empress was doing her best, and likewise, he, Kim Hyukjin, was doing his best to y, using everything within his capacity.


    They had both done their best, so they would each take responsibility for the result. It was a simple, clear-cut principle.


    Hyukjins victory also surprised the Guardians.


    [The Nameless Observer expresses their surprise.]


    [The Nameless Observer has sent you a Coin sponsorship.]


    [+400 Coins]


    The Nameless Observer sent me yet another sponsorship.[The Lady of the Scales is awed by your chivalrous spirit.]


    By chivalrous spirit, she was likely referring to the fact that I didnt kill Yeonseo.


    If youre awed, you should at least give some Coins.


    I heard that she was so very generous to one of the 8 Heroes representing Korea, Jo Sunghyun the Typhoon, but to me, she only expressed her admiration without opening her purse.[The Whispering Devil likes your scheming.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain has begun to pay attention to you.]


    It felt fun to Hyukjin.


    A whopping four Guardians have begun to send messages to me.


    The number of Guardians who could send messages to a single yer was limited to five. No one knew the exact details, but it was said that the Guardians alsopeted amongst themselves in order to squeeze into those five slots.


    Getting into the first four slots also takes a huge amount of Coins.


    Not every detail of the System was known. However, one thing they did know was that Guardians also had topete in order to send messages. In other words, even among the Guardians who revealed their names, message-sending Guardians were the real deal.


    Just one more, and all five slots will be filled.


    But the notices continued.[The Courageous Lion King ridicules your petty tricks.]


    It was almost a little absurd, even. How much did he have topete among the Guardians in order to send that message? Thinking about it like that, it really wasughable.


    Even though theres no doubt that he doesnt like me.


    But even so, he was unable to take his eyes off Hyukjin. Despite falling slightly shortpared to famous Guardians like the Lady of the Scales and the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain, seeing as he continued to persist in sending messages


    Is he a tsundere?


    His flip flopping made me feel like there was some sort of love-hate rtionship here.


    What are you thinking about so hard? asked Yeonseo, peering at Hyukjin. The PVP zone is supposed to be disabled after three minutes.


    Ah.


    Right, Yeonseo was in front of him. He had been so focused on various things that he forgot about Yeonseo.


    Um hey.


    Yeonseos cheeks reddened a little. Hyukjins Eye of Perception picked up on a strange emotion from her.


    Whats going on?


    It was hard to describe in exact words, but this slightly itchy feeling of some sort, emotion of some sort, came sweeping towards him via Eye of Perception like a spring wind.


    Tell me your phone number.


    Why?


    Well, um Itll be convenient to party up if I get to know a yer of your level in advance Ah. So what I mean by party is, you know. That thing. Uh. Not the kind of party where you drink, but that System-made party that is


    After rambling for a bit, she finally straightened.


    Just give me your number, okay? She decided to simply go for it. Ive taken a liking to you, alright?


    She bit her lips a little, and as she looked up at Hyukjin with something like expectation in her eyes, her face appeared as pink as a peach.


    Her voice became a little smaller.


    Give me your number already.


    * * *


    I was forced to experience a fierce beating. After the PVP zone dissipated, my eyes were greeted with the sight of my older sister and her swollen eyes. The beating she unleashed was pretty damn painful, even for an Awakened person like me. Eye of Perception sent me danger signals, but I didnt avoid her fists.


    Looks like she worried a lot.


    She had even called the police, but they told her there was no use, or something to that effect. This ying thing happening now was an iprehensible and mysterious phenomenon. Not even the police could do a thing about the Streamers, and they couldnt even keep up with all the calls rted to gates or yers. It was just too early in the game for that.


    The only thing noona could do was simply wait here.


    If I knew this would happen, I would havee after giving her a detailed exnation, at least. She had waited in a daze outside for nearly seven hours. She only regained herposure after a long time.


    I told you to not worry. I wont die before letting my family live infort.


    Inside the taxi, my sister absentmindedly gazed out the window, almost as if saying, I never worried about a fool like you. When we were almost home, she pushed something towards me.


    Take it or leave it; I dont care.


    It was chocte, the Ghana choctes I liked. I picked it up. The feelings and sincerity of my sister who worked three shifts in the factory to support me, growing sick with leukemia in the process, were in this pack of choctes. That was how it felt to me.


    Noona, Ill do my best.


    The debts of the past, I would repay them all. We had a house, as well as money.


    Itll take about three days to sort things out for moving.


    I guessed that our new nest would be ready for move-in in three days. Our current hole in the ground, a ce that was hot in the summer and cold in the winter, a ce where bugs came skittering away as soon as the lights went on, the day woulde when we would be able to say this ce was a memory, an experience.


    One day passed, and the media exploded with articles.


    <i>Global Conglomerate Sungshin expands into New Technology Business.</i>


    Sungshin announced that they would be concentrating on ying. They named the items acquired from ying new technology and revealed that they would devote their full energy into this new technology business. Not long after this announcement, Tutorial Fields appeared all over the world.


    I knew.


    Globally, at least 20 million people will die.


    This was something I could do nothing about. I was neither a hero nor a god. I could not save them. I wasnt even able to save the people right in front of me, the people on the D-Tower 2nd floor. This was a flow of events I could do nothing about.


    Sungshins vigorous involvement, and the transition of the world into Tutorial mode.


    The world was proceeding exactly as I knew.


    One day passed.


    I stumbled upon a mini gate that formed near my house, where I found baby orcs. Their level was about 15. They werent full-growns, but I still needed to face them seriously.


    Not too far in the future, I will have to kill orcs.


    And not just one, but a great number of them.


    Another day passed.


    [Level increased.]


    [Current level: 25]


    [2 bonus stats acquired.]


    [1 random stat acquired.]


    Level 25.


    I reached level 25. This was the number one thing Id been waiting for. Before a yer reached the 30-40 stretch, the level up period from hell, level 25 was the first turning point of that yer.


    I should be getting a notice now.


    I waited for the level 25 notice.


    Huh?


    But something was a little strange.

 Chapter 31: Six-Tailed Fox

    Chapter 31: Six-Tailed Fox


    Level 25, the first turning point a yer faced.


    The reason it was called the first turning point was precisely because of advancement. When yers reached level 25, they were given a choice to advance to a ss. Normally, it was the biggest turning point before level 40.


    Howe Im not getting a notice?


    Normally, youd get a list of choices without dy. The first advancement was set to several basic choices.


    Usually, its tank or damage dealer, plus a few misceneous sses.


    Misceneous sses referred to the nonbat sses. Choices like explorer or cksmith definitely existed. It was just that no one chose them.


    The first advancement was exactly as it soundedthe first ss change. It yed the role of determining the bodys direction.


    In the early y period, everyone always advanced at level 25.


    But as time passed and strategies were published, people no longer chose to do their first advancement at level 25.


    Level 30. Thats the real advancement point.


    I would wait for that point. So to me, level 25 itself wasnt all that important. However, I should have still heard the advancement is possible notice. Howe I didnt?


    Did something go wrong?


    I got a call from Sunhwa.


    I went to D-Tower like you told me to, but its just a normal building?


    That meant it still looked like the normal D-Tower, having fulfilled its purpose as the Tutorial Dungeon.


    Got it.


    I hung up. The D-Tower was still the same as before, and I didnt get the advancement notice. I was able to draw a conclusion.


    It hasnt been updated yet.


    In conclusion


    I leveled up too fast.


    It seemed that I had leveled up faster than the System had expected, so the advancement system hadnt been patched in yet. No wonder. The other countries had just barely started their Tutorial Quests now.


    This is correct. Its correct that the update hasnt happened yet.


    My level was 25. I rxed a little after figuring out the situation. Nothing would change from the past. When I thought back, I remembered that in the early y period, the person with the fastest level ups had been the Tutorial Ender.


    The Tutorial Ender, So Yoohyun, who wouldter be called the Fist King. I guessed that his level was currently somewhere in the early 20s.


    So Yoohyun was probably the first to get the first advancement notice, too.


    Thinking about the timeline ording to his level up speed would be easiest.


    I can just check, cant I?


    I sent Yoohyun a call.


    Hyungnim! My level is 22. Ive been doing my best to hunt, but its really slow-going.


    Yoohyun was level 22. That was certainly an extremely fast leveling speed. It was just slowpared to me.


    Then for now, advancement is on hold.


    I decided to busy myself with other matters and organize my thoughts until the Tutorial Dungeon D-Tower turned into the Tutorial Building, until a new system called NPCs took effect.


    Inventory.


    In my Inventory was thepiled summary I had brought with me from 2028. I didnt know why I had it, or why I had returned to the past. I didnt know those things, but it was okay. To me, right now, the reason wasnt important.


    [May 11, 2018. The beginning of the Cataclysm on a worldwide scale.]


    Today was June 13.


    [June 16, 2018. Gates/dungeons appear simultaneously in Korea.]


    Soon, beginner or tutorial level gates and dungeons would be simultaneously generated all over the country.


    Thinking about it like that, my leveling speed is really fucking fast.


    It wasnt just my level up speed. I got extra random stats whenever I leveled up. That meant Id gotten way more stat points than regr yers of the same level.


    There are three more days until the 16th of June.


    What could I do during these three days? The new house was nearly ready for moving in. Tomorrow, our family would be able to move to our new home. I was itchy to find out how happy my mom and sister would be after finding out. My moms lifelong wish had been to live in a real apartment, after all.


    Okay.


    I decided what I would do today. The goal for today was Mt. Inwang.


    * * *


    At the foot of Mt. Inwang, in the early evening of a weekday, I saw quite a lot of climbers.


    Oppa. Why are we here?


    Therell be a monster somewhere around here.


    A monster?


    Some distance away, I saw a monster getting trampled under the climbers feet. It was a Slime.


    Like that Slime?


    You cant really call that thing a monster.


    Slimes were only technically monsters by ssification. Even civilians who werent yers could easily kill them. Slimes were simply a tool to get people ustomed to ying, to get them used to destroying something.


    Then what? Is there something else here?


    Yeah.


    I knew. There was definitely a Lycanthrope living here, somewhere on this mountain. There hadnt been any victims yet, but someone would die here at the Lycanthropes ws.


    A Lycanthrope.


    Ehh?! Sunhwa stumbled back one step. A-A Lycanthrope?


    It was a monster we had already seen. The Lycanthrope was a bipedal, walking wolf-type monster. The Lycanthrope wed seen on the Tutorial Field was the essence of fear itself, at least to Sunhwa.


    W-Were going to kill that?


    We have to.


    O-Oppa. Please reconsider.


    I could understand why Sunhwa was so frightened. How scared must she have been back then? The fear engraved in her head must still be very present.


    Im level 25 now.


    What? Already?? Im only at 21.


    It was actually shocking. She was in her early teens, so her talent tes shouldnt bepletely open yet. For her to have almost the same level as So Yoohyun at her age was insane. Her talent hadnt even bloomed yet. If this young child was this incredible, just how crazy would she be when all her talent tes opened? It was a bit iffying from my level 25 mouth, but this kid really was a damn genius.


    In any case, Sunhwa and I started going up Mt. Inwang. I tried to remember the newspaper article.


    They said six people died gruesome deaths on the trail.


    One of the six had captured the Lycanthrope on her phone camera. A military unit was dispatched to hunt down the Lycanthrope, and they managed to seed because Lycanthropes could be hunted with modern weapons.


    But it was a real mess.


    It felt really different. I had onlye in contact with the incident through a newspaper article, and back then, I simply thought that it was a terrifying creature. But now, I was climbing Mt. Inwang to kill that very creature.


    The sun crept down, the sky dimming.


    They said it was around the halfway point.


    Once you hit level 20, even a child would have the physical abilities of most adult men, or better. Sunhwa didnt struggle much.


    Oppa, will a monster really show up here?


    The only monsters we could see were slimes. Even themonly seen city foxes were nowhere to be spotted, and there werent any rabbit monsters. It was so peaceful I started to wonder if this was all in vain.


    Its possible we might not find it today.


    It could go either way. I hadnt been thinking that we would find the Lycanthrope in just one day. However


    Ah.


    I felt something through my constantly active Eye of Perception.


    Bloodlust.


    I didnt see the source of the bloodlust. We were on a steep slope, with a not-too-thick forest on both sides. Nearby, a few climbers were chattering jovially as they descended the mountain.


    In the newspaper article


    The situation had been described withparatively greater detail. I was almost fascinated by my ability to remember all of that now. I didnt know why I could remember it. Was it because I was a genius?


    Old schoolmates in their 40s experienced an unlucky mishap while descending the mountain.


    I didnte here because I wanted to save them. Incidents like this would ur in tandem all over the country anyway, and I couldnt save them all. This might make me seem a little violent and cold-hearted, but I came here in order to test my current strength. I wanted to see if the level 25 me could face a level 25-ish Lycanthrope head-on.


    Where is it?


    I definitely felt its bloodthirst, that feeling of a savage beast eyeing its prey. Eye of Perception, the far more developed version of Sixth Sense, heightened every sense of my body to the utmost.


    Where is it?


    Before long, I was able to find it.


    There!


    * * *


    Han Myunghye, who was 43 years old this year, climbed down Mt. Inwang while chattering with her old school buddies, who she hadnt seen in a while.


    They say events like Jongno have happened all over the world.


    Haa. How terrifying. Dont talk about it. I dont even wanna think about it.


    Out of 150,000 people, just 5,000 managed to survive Jongno. That was, in every sense of the word, a cmity and a disaster.


    I hear those Intermediate Administrators or whatever monsters are killing people at random, and not even the police can do anything about them?


    Han Myunghye shook her head.


    She had many worries these days, too. Her daughter awakened as a yer, or something of the sort, and insisted that ying was fun. She tried to scold her daughter to not say such crazy nonsense, but the child didnt want to listen to her.


    Yeah. Those Intermediate Administrators? I hear those guys are real monsters, too.


    Not even guns work on them. They appear and disappear suddenly, so theres nothing we can do about them.


    The world had changed too much these days. Ever since the Cataclysm, it felt like Earth had be apletely different world.


    Weve lived fifty years, but who wouldve known that something like this would happen?


    Seriously.


    But I hear the items those monsters drop are being sold off at a pretty high price?


    That, you know, Sungshin President described them as new technology.


    New technology. Monsters. Tutorial. To them, the terms were far too unfamiliar. Even slimes were fascinating to them, despite having seen them many times.


    And these squishy things have appeared on the ground, too.


    But just then, they saw someone running over.


    H-Huhh?


    Han Myunghye was startled out of her wits. It was almost like some crazy person was charging towards them.


    K-Kyaaaa!


    She screamed, falling backwards to the ground. Some crazy person was running over with a huge knife in hand, after all. Myunghyes school buddies also screamed. One of them even fled without a single look back, and the three remaining women screamed in ce.


    I-I have to call the police!


    But her body was frozen. She couldnt moveshe was just too shocked. What kind of bolt from the blue was this? How could there be a sudden suspicious man with a knife here?


    Please stay still. Dont make pointless noise. Itll stimte it.


    Hyukjin gestured towards his mouth with his index finger. Myunghye shut her mouth, but the three women around her continued to shriek, apparently caught in a panic. They could do nothing but scream.


    T-T-T-T-That is!


    Behind the copsed Myunghye, something enormous appeared.


    <i>Grrrrrrr!</i>


    It was a lifeform of a kind they had never seen in their lives, a monster with golden eyes and saliva dripping from its sharp fangs.Lycanthrope LVL 24


    It was a <i>level 24 </i>Lycanthrope. Hyukjin reached out with his left hand, grabbed the slumped Han Myunghye, and dragged her behind him.


    Before, I could only use petty tricks


    How would it be this time, now that he was a level 25 yer? Just how well could he really hunt this level 24 Lycanthrope?


    Im curious.


    He readjusted his grip on the Iron Sword. But just then, Eye of Perception picked up on bloodlust.


    This feeling.


    It was the same bloodlust he had felt earlier. Now that he could see the beast with his own eyes, he knew. The bloodlust from earlier wasnting from this Lycanthrope. The source of the bloodthirst hed felt through Eye of Perception was from something else, something giving off an energy more refined than the Lycanthrope.

 Chapter 32: Six-Tailed Fox (2)

    Chapter 32: Six-Tailed Fox (2)


    It wasnt just the Lycanthrope.


    Where is it?


    I felt it.


    Behind me!


    There was a creature giving off even fiercer bloodlust than the Lycanthrope before my eyes. I heard a piercing scream.


    Kyaaaaaa!


    One of the three women who had fallen over was attacked by the Lycanthrope, her arm torn off by its brute, monstrous strength.


    <i>Spurt!</i>


    Hot blood gushed from the gaping wound.


    Hyukjin didnt pay much attention to that. Rather, he wasnt <i>able</i> to. The moment he let himself get distracted by the Lycanthrope, that still unidentified something would stick a dagger in his back.


    Ill kill it. Now.


    It seemed to think that it was perfectly concealed. In all truth, I couldnt see it with my eyes. But my eye that wasnt an eye, the evolved form of Sixth Sense in my head, Eye of Perception, picked up on its position. Despite being level 25, I had abilities that far exceeded a regr level 25 yer.[Would you like to exchange the title Excellent yer with First Adversary?]


    Excellent yer afforded me great advantages in monster hunting, with its damage increase and increased movement speed. Each and every effect was a rare gem. But right now, I needed First Adversary.[The title First Adversary is taking effect.]


    Eye of Perception pinpointed its location, but there was no point in simply figuring out where it was. In the end, I would have to catch its movements myself.[Using the special skill sh Step.]


    sh Step, the Sword Empress iconic movement skill and a high-speed lightness technique that could allow one to reach the designated position instantaneously, without any readying or change in posture. The foot technique that made the former Sword Empress shine so radiantly was reborn because of me.


    It felt like the world instantly moved far away, like my body was getting sucked somewhere. Like my body was being shrunk by a vacuum cleaner or some powerful force. However, I didnt panic. My body reacted naturally, as if this feeling were familiar to it.


    Here.


    I used one lightness technique over another. Immediately after using a foot technique that gave me a movement speed that couldnt even be imagined for a level 25 yer, I swapped the titles again in what was called switching.


    [The title Excellent yer is taking effect.]


    [Additional damage +20%]


    [Movement speed +10%]


    The moment my body reached its location using sh Step, I swapped the title effects, a feat that demanded precisebat sense. I managed the switch in a span of time so short it could be counted in seconds. It was so fast that one would never be able to say this was the sense of a level 25 yer.


    On top of that[Using the skill Excellent Strike.]


    I used a title skill, not a regr attackExcellent Strike. I struck out with the Iron Sword. Starting from sh Step and ending with Excellent Strike, my attack could almost be called instantaneous.


    <i>Spuuurt!</i>


    My sword struck flesh.


    I couldnt see it properly; I couldnt properly activate Eye of Perception. But I did see one name:Six-Tailed Fox LVL 27


    Six-Tailed Fox?


    It was a spirit-type monster with six tails. Six-Tailed Foxes were skilled in stealth and sneak attacks and were capable of using a smidgen of spirit arts.


    A Six-Tailed Fox is already appearing?


    I already knew about Six-Tailed Foxes, including how to hunt one. The problem was that it wasnt the right time for a Six-Tailed Fox to show up yetit was too early. Six-Tailed Foxes fell under the spirit ssification, and these spirit-type monsters were slightly trickier to face than other monsters of the same level.


    And it already fled.


    Only the Lycanthrope was left.


    * * *


    One womans arm was ripped off, and a fountain of blood arced through the air. Sunhwa did not close her eyes.


    Oppa would


    To Sunhwa, Kim Hyukjin wasnt just some oppa she knew. He wasnt someone she liked as someone of the opposite sex, wasnt the target of her love. No, he was closer to the target of her awe, a realm far removed from those things.


    And in this moment, the only thought in her head was this:


    <i>What would oppa do?</i>


    Taunt![Using the skill Taunt.]


    !!! marks appeared above the Lycanthropes head. It craned its head towards the sky and howled.


    Awoooooooo![Howl has taken physical effect.]


    She had experienced this howl before. Back then, Sunhwa was hidden behind a car, unable to do anything. Her body and legs had trembled unstoppably,pletely frozen by the abnormal status paralyzation.


    Its different this time!


    Sunhwa opened her eyes wide.[The status abnormality has not taken effect.]


    In the Tutorial Field, in Jongno, the Lycanthrope they met was like fear itselfbut not anymore. If the rtionship between the Lycanthrope back then and her was like predator and prey


    Now, Im going to be the one wholl hunt you!


    now, their positions were swapped. The System, the levels, and all the growth that came with those things had strengthened and trained Sunhwa.


    Gau<i>! Gau! Gau!</i>


    Uttering something akin to the barks of a dog, the Lycanthrope rushed forward, showing its sharp ws.


    <i>Swiiiiiipe!</i>


    It shed its sharp ws at Sunhwas throat with the whistle of air being sliced.


    Sunhwa did not fear it. She did not falter a single step. Rather, she moved forward half a step, assuming bnce. Putting force right into her toes and tightening her abdomen, she lowered her center of gravity.[Using the skill tinum Shield.]


    The moment she used her skill, she snatched up the Lycanthropes wrist.


    Urgh!


    Her wrists were numb. tinum Shield did dissipate a great deal of the impact, but the Lycanthropes full power still exceeded her expectations.


    I blocked it.


    Even so, she had changed greatly from the past. Sunhwa had a good understanding of what her role was, of what she had to do.


    I wont let you go!


    She grabbed it hard, not letting the Lycanthrope wriggle free from her grasp. In her small hand, using her thin wrist, she grabbed the much stronger-looking Lycanthropes wrist and restrained the beast.


    <i>Grrrrrrrr!</i>


    The Lycanthrope opened its jaws wide, exposing a red mouth and enormous teeth. It gave off a fierce aura, like it was going to rip Sunhwa to pieces right this instant.


    In the meantime, Hyukjin quickly drew near.


    Bark some more, you shitty dog.


    <i>Spuuuurt!</i>


    He plunged the Iron Sword deep into its wide-open mouth. Hyukjins Iron Sword went through the monsters mouth and out the back of its head. Blood surged out of the Lycanthropes snout, showering Hyukjin from head to toe.


    Sunhwa punched out.


    <i>Bam!</i>


    There was a resounding thud. Her small fist hadnded precisely in the Lycanthropes abdomen.


    [Lycanthrope has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [30 Coins acquired.]


    The predator of the Tutorial Field, the King of the Wolves and the Hidden Piece, the Lycanthrope, was no longer a match for Hyukjin and Sunhwa.


    Hyukjin had already wiped away his sweat.


    That was easier than I thought.


    Killing the Lycanthrope was far easier than he had anticipated. If there hadnt been an unexpected Six-Tailed Fox, they would have probably been able to hunt it down without any damage. Unfortunately, one person died to the Lycanthrope, her body missing an arm.


    Rest in peace.


    The two survivors were trembling nonstop.


    D-D-D-D-Donte any closer!


    M-Monster!


    The two of them werent in their right mind. Hyukjin had no intention of ming them. Their reaction was normal. A 2-meterrge wolf monster suddenly showed up before their eyes, and there was an even greater monster that had stabbed that wolf monster to death.


    Hyukjin didnt really curse them or resent them. When it came down to it, he and Sunhwa were indeed their saviors, but it was difficult to expect such gratitude from them. Because they really werent in their right mind right now.


    If things had gone like in the past, they would have died. But they had lived.


    A difficult life in the mire is better than one in the clouds.


    They would likely have to live with a great deal of trauma and fear, but that was still better than dying, wasnt it? Their lives were their own to live.


    However, there was still one questionable loose end.


    A Six-Tailed Fox, huh


    ording to the government notice he remembered, they seeded in killing the culprit behind the incident, the Lycanthrope. They had paraded that feat extensively, garnering praise from the popce.


    Was there no Six-Tailed Fox back then?


    This was just Hyukjins hunch, but


    No. It was there at that time, too.


    He had no proof. He just felt that was the case.


    It was there, but they probably didnt manage to kill it.


    Spirit-type monsters were, after all, extremely tricky to kill with modern technology. Moreover, it was a fox-type monster particrly specialized in escape. At the level of a Six-Tailed Fox, there was a very high chance that they had failed to kill it and it escaped.


    Immediately after the Lycanthrope incident on Mt. Inwang, there was a grotesque series of events that had be famous all over the world.


    The serial killings in the vicinity of Mt. Inwang.


    He recalled the gruesome incidents.


    The victims bellies were cut open, and all their guts were gone.


    Both details were characteristic of Six-Tailed Foxes. It was a horrific monster that lusted for the guts of humans. There was no doubt about that, but the government announced that they were the horrible and perverted acts of a serial killer. They even caught the perpetrator.


    Hyukjin recalled a conspiracy. The perpetrator had imed that he was wrongly used time and time again, before finallymitting suicide because he felt so wronged.


    Hyukjin was sure of it.


    The governments announcement at that time must have been a lie.


    Because the acts were so gruesome, if there was no criminal to act as a scapegoat, the arrow of me might have headed to the government or the police.


    Ill kill the Six-Tailed Fox.


    It was injured and had likely been unable to escape far. Hyukjin promptly decided to catch it. A Six-Tailed Fox wasnt in his original ns, but with it, his ns would be pushed closer topletion.


    If Im lucky I might be able to get a [Fox Tail].


    At that moment, his Eye of Perception captured something. It was faint, but he heard a scream further down the mountain. Hyukjin moved first, followed by Sunhwa. He didnt exin to her what he was doing, but Sunhwa naturally followed his lead. Despite being only 14 years old, her sense and perceptiveness were first-rate.


    Hyukjin didnt push himself to an excessive speed.


    Control my breathing.


    He couldnt wear himself out too much. If his stamina was worn out, he wouldnt be able to hunt the spirit, and he might be the one on the losing side. It wouldnt do to hurry in this situation.


    The one woman who fled earlier.


    The wounded Six-Tailed Fox was likely aiming for that woman. Thinking back, he remembered that the Six-Tailed Foxs escape route was in this direction. It wanted to gorge itself on human guts to recover. The screaming from some distance down the mountain was likely from that hapless woman.


    Hyukjin felt the bloody aura hed felt earlier. This time as well, it was the same kind of bloodthirst. Because Eye of Perception had captured it once, the feeling was ryed to him in sharper rity.


    Its an extremely voracious monster.


    Plus, it was wounded, so that voracious appetite would be even more explosive. Whenever it was eating something, it saw nothing else. As such, when hunting Six-Tailed Foxes, the innards of young calves were used to make a trap.


    I see it.


    There it wasthe Six-Tailed Fox. Under its six swishing tails and furry body was a person. He heard screams of S-Save me!


    Am I toote?


    No, he wasnt toote. Eye of Perception captured something new, something that couldnt quite be called a variable.


    I knew it.


    Hyukjin had already been expecting this.

 Chapter 33: Display of the Guardians

    Chapter 33: Disy of the Guardians


    Six-Tailed Fox. This spirit monster with six tails used special skills called spirit arts or Taoist magic. In all actuality, it was because the Six-Tailed Fox was categorized as a spirit monster that its skills were called that, but it was perfectly fine to just call them skills.


    The Six-Tailed Foxs skill, Doppelgnger, allowed it to divide its body into two separate entities.


    That ones a fake.


    The clone had a physical form, but that thing that was created as a doppelgnger was weaker than the true body. If it had been the true body, the woman pressed underneath it would have already died. Her stomach had been shed and blood was seeping out, but that level of injury was a blessing.


    If it were the real one, it wouldve already gobbled everything up.


    She wouldve been far beyond Hyukjins help.


    Wheres the true body?


    Hyukjin honed Eye of Perception to the max. He didnt even hear a notice like Eye of Perception has been activated. One month had already passed since he first gained the ability.


    No one had taught him how to use it, and he never learned how best to use it. But Hyukjin naturally, so very naturally, became familiar with Eye of Perceptions use. Just like how a baby didnt need to be taught how to breathe, it was the same with Hyukjin and Eye of Perception.


    The true body.


    Hyukjins innate ability heightened his senses to the greatest degree, and that same ability thoroughly swept through the surrounding area.


    Found it.


    At Hyukjins 11 oclock, sitting in a tree, was the Six-Tailed Fox, the color of its body cleverly changed to match the color of the branches and leaves. Most spirit monsters protected themselves with this kind of camouge. It wasnt anything special.


    Sunhwa. Aggro it, Hyukjin said to the girl next to him.


    For now, he acted as if he hadnt noticed the true body. Six-Tailed Foxes had an uncanny sense for running away, so if the true body figured out its cover was blown, it would immediately flee.


    Got it.


    Sunhwa used her skill right away.[Using the skill Taunt.]


    The Six-Tailed Foxs clone was chomping at the stomach of the woman underneath it. Green !!! marks appeared above its head.[Using the skill Taunt.]


    The !!! marks turned yellow. Sunhwa used Taunt one more time.[Using the skill Taunt.]


    Finally, the !!! marks turned red, indicating that Sunhwa hadpletely drawn its aggro. With Eye of Perception active, Hyukjin watched the true bodys movements.


    Come. Even the true body in the distance nearly got aggroed.


    By Hyukjins evaluation, Sunhwas aggroing ability was so outstanding that no one of the same level could hold a candle to her. A yer in their early level 20s who could sessfully draw the aggro of a Six-Tailed Fox with prey in front of it?


    I cant remember anyone who could do that.


    As expected, Sunhwa was


    A damn genius.


    In any case, the aggro was properly applied, and the Six-Tailed Foxs clone with the red !!! over its head charged towards Sunhwa.


    Six-Tailed Fox LVL 22


    The true bodys level was 27, but the clones level was set to 22. Both the true body and clone had physical form, but a decrease in ability was an unavoidable side effect. The Six-Tailed Fox opened its jaw full of sharp teeth wide as it bit Sunhwas throat.


    <i>Cruuuunch!</i>


    The clones teeth were unable to pierce through Sunhwas neck.


    Meanwhile, Hyukjin finished his calctions.


    The true body has no intention ofing here.


    If they attacked the clone too fiercely, the true body would unconditionally flee. That left only one optionhe had to catch the true body.


    My 11 oclock. About thirteen meters away.


    Eye of Perception pinpointed the Six-Tailed Foxs location, but he had no way to drag it down or hunt it right now.


    Or wait.


    Upon second thought, there <i>was </i>a way to kill it.[You have opened the Item Shop.]


    Like a long-term yer, Hyukjin opened the Item Shop with practiced ease and selected the sub-category he wanted.


    Weapons & Armor.


    [Item Shop  Beginner-grade  Weapons & Armor]<ol><li><ol><li> Beginner Iron Sword 500 Coins</li></ol></li></ol><ol><li><ol><li> Beginner Helmet 470 Coins</li></ol></li></ol><ol start="11"><li><ol start="11"><li> Beginner Dagger 260 Coins</li></ol></li></ol><ol start="20"><li><ol start="20"><li> Beginner Shoes 480 Coins</li></ol></li></ol>


    They werent in a dungeon or a gate, but a regr field. There was no restriction on shop use.


    [Beginner Dagger purchased.]


    [-260 Coins]


    [Beginner Dagger purchased.]


    [-260 Coins]


    The Iron Sword disappeared from Hyukjins hand and was reced by a Beginner Dagger. He would throw this dagger to kill the true body hidden in the tree.


    Ive never done it before, but


    Somehow, he was full of confidence. Hed never thrown a dagger before, and never hunted anything like this, yet the evolved form of Sixth Sense, Eye of Perception, was drawing out Hyukjins sess. It outlined exactly how he should throw the dagger and the exact trajectory it would follow.


    If I throw this


    The question wasnt <i>will it hit?</i>


    I can hit it.


    It was an instinctive feeling.


    [The Courageous Lion King shows interest in your throwing ability.]


    [The Nameless Observer observes you.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain sneers at you.]


    His intention indeed merited ridicule. After all, Hyukjin had no System skill whatsoever, and certainly nothing like Knife Throwing.


    Here I go.


    He didnt think about it for too long. He simply threw the dagger, unassisted by any kind of skill. Hyukjin threw the dagger, relying purely on his physical ability.


    <i>Fwip!</i>


    The dagger left Hyukjins hand and whistled forward like an arrow.


    And shortly afterwards


    <i>Thud!</i>


    A thump came from afar. Something fell from the tree. Hyukjin ran to his 11 oclock, and as he did so, the clone Sunhwa had been fighting grew faint before disappearing.


    Oppa? Sunhwa eximed, staring at Hyukjin as he ran past.


    His movements were extremely fast. Sunhwa followed his path to the base of the tree, where she saw a fox with a dagger nted precisely in the middle of its forehead. Blood was flowing freely from its forehead, and the fox was convulsing with asional twitches.


    Wha? Seeing it now, the situation became clear to her. He threw a dagger and hit it?


    That was absolutely no small distance.


    From here, to there??


    But he had hit it, and squarely in the middle of the head.


    Did oppa have a throwing skill?


    She didnt think so. Sunhwa dazedly saw that Hyukjin had already re-equipped his Iron Sword. He swung his sword at the Six-Tailed Fox standing briefly stunned at the base of the tree, precisely slitting its throat open.


    Hyukjins movements werent very shy. They were <i>clean.</i>


    <i>Thump.</i>


    The foxs head fell to the ground.


    [Six-Tailed Fox has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [30 Coins acquired.]


    A ray of blue light shone from Hyukjins body.


    [Congrattions.]


    [Your level has increased!]


    [Current level: 26]


    Hyukjin himself was a little bewildered.


    It really worked?


    Before throwing the dagger, he was sure it would hit, but seeing it really be reality was a strange feeling.


    [The Courageous Lion King is pleased by your dagger throwing ability.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain is bbergasted.]


    Hyukjin tapped the body of the Six-Tailed Fox, and a yellow light shed from its body. An item dropped onto the ground.


    Oh.


    It was only a slim possibility, but he really did get it. Later, hed be able to make good use of it in the Shot Table Dungeon.[Fox Tail acquired.]


    He was packing it away when Senia appeared.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. What is your level?


    * * *


    I didnt answer Senias question. I was sure she was curious about my level. The Guardians were probably itching to know as well.


    Scan me.


    Shortly afterwards, Senias wingtips trembled.


    Youre level 26.


    I shrugged. Her words werent said to me, but for the benefit of the Guardians. Sure enough, a stream of notices showed the Guardians were shocked by my leveling speed.


    [The Nameless Observer finds your leveling speed intriguing.]


    [The Courageous Lion King feels pride in your leveling speed.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain feels a sense of kinship with your leveling speed.]


    Thats right. Enjoy yourselves to your hearts content and be intrigued. Because I can be your good quality content anytime.[The Whispering Devil is spurred by your leveling speed into contemting giving you a trial.]


    Dont think about something like that. The Courageous Lion King is crazy enough for me.[The Lady of the Scalesins to the Intermediate Administrator.]


    Hm?


    Comin?


    I thought about what kind ofint it might be. The Streamer Senia opened her mouth, but I couldnt hear her voice. She was most likely conversing with the Guardians.


    What the Lady of the Scales could beining about in this situation has to be


    It was obvious.


    Im level 26. But I havent advanced yet.


    I hadnt had my first advancement yet. The Guardians knew that when yers hit level 25, they were supposed to advance.


    That the System update hasnt happened yet is one thing, but I hummed to myself. The problem is that Senia didnt make any notice about it to me.


    I became level 26 without getting a notice from her. The Lady of the Scales prioritized fairness above all. Herint was probably something along those lines.


    This is gonna be troublesome.


    So I approached Senia. The Lady of the Scales was an extremely famous and powerful Guardian. She was an upper being so powerful she could easily bury a new Streamer like Senia six feet under.


    I also need Senia.


    Where else would I find such an inarticte and lousy Streamer? A Streamer like her was the easiest to take advantage of. I sent Senia a whisper request. Although she was expressionless, considering the intensity of her wingtip trembling, she was apparently having quite the mental breakdown.


    I whispered to Senia.


    Youre in trouble because of the advancement notice, yeah?


    Unable to pay much attention to me, Senia continued to mumble.


    Ill tell them that I already got the advancement notice and Im waiting to advance when I reach level 30.


    Only then did Senia turn to stare at me. Her eyes were trembling ever so slightly, but I could see countless questions within them, almost like she was asking, Just who are you? Of course, I had no intention of answering that.


    You and I are already in the same boat, I thought. Youve just got to believe me. What other choice do you have?


    And it wasnt going to be for free.


    3,000 Coins.


    To get 3,000 Coins, youd have to kill a whopping 100 Six-Tailed Foxes that gave 30 Coins each.


    If you dont want to, forget it. The Lady of the Scales temper has got to be something else, but oh well. Do your best to figure it out.


    I turned without reluctance. I heard Senias voice. Naturally, it was a whisper only I could hear.


    How about 2,000 Coins?


    3,000.


    2,200.


    I shook my head. She was the one in the frying pan, not me.


    3,000.


    She had to have made at least 5,000 Coins while streaming me as her content. Since it seemed she wasnt grasping the gravity of her situation, I said a bit more.


    Senia. Youre getting pressure from the Lady of the Scales right now, right? The Lady of the Scales is fundamentally a Guardian whos capable of acknowledging her own mistake. As long as I put in a good word for you, the Lady of the Scales will probably apologize to you, you know? Shell send at least a few thousand Coins.


    Actually, I didnt know whether the Lady of the Scales would send that much or not, but it didnt matter. It wasnt my problem.


    How about 2,700?


    3,000.


    Senias wingtips trembled once again.


    I agree to 3,000.


    Senia was a nearly expressionless rock, but somehow, I had the impression she was speaking through gritted teeth.


    Send the contract. Ill sign it.


    A contract was sent to my Inventory, meaning our deal was a sess.


    Feigning total ignorance, I said, Oh, right. Im gonna advance when I reach level 30, Senia. So dont nag me about it.


    Even if the situation hadnt been like this, I had been nning on saying this anyway. I said them to the Guardians, making it clear that I would advance at level 30.


    Level 30.


    That was the one and only time when a yer could stand above the Guardiansthe time when the yer selected their Guardian.


    The flurry of unexpected messages that came next took me by surprise.

 Chapter 34: Display of the Guardians (2)

    Chapter 34: Disy of the Guardians (2)


    Notices came in.


    [The Nameless Observer thinks very highly of your prudence andposure.]


    [The Nameless Observer is steadily observing you.]


    The Nameless Observer aside, notices from the Courageous Lion King came as well.


    [The Courageous Lion King is reevaluating you.]


    [The Courageous Lion King has be much more amicable towards you.]


    [The Courageous Lion King shows great favor towards your hidden courage and spirit.]


    Just what did I do to get this courage-lover to suddenly change his evaluation of me? Great deal of goodwill? So suddenly?[The Courageous Lion King wishes to gift you High Strength Elixir x3.]


    He wasnt the only one sending notices.


    [The Lady of the Scales harbors great goodwill towards you.]


    [The Lady of the Scales shows great favor towards your chivalry and sense of justice.]


    [The Lady of the Scales wishes to gift you the Aten Sword.]


    The Aten Sword?


    Isnt that the sword the Typhoon, Jo Sunghyun, used in the beginning?


    The grade of the item was a staggering Rare. At the very least, the swords attack power was very nearly the best you could get in the beginner period. It did have the weakness of low durability, but even so, it was an item of a prowess far above my current level.


    Why this?


    It wasnt just the Lady of the Scales.


    [The Whispering Devil wishes to nurture you.]


    [The Whispering Devil shows a great favor towards your craftiness and resourcefulness.]


    [The Whispering Devil wishes to gift you Devils Fruit.]


    This time, even the Devils Fruit made an appearance.


    A fruit that forcefully advances you into the evil-alignment faction.


    yers in the evil faction enjoyed fast growth and were very strong. Up until the middle period, most of the people who could be called masters had evil-alignment sses. If I were to use the Devils Fruit right now, I would instantly be the top-level ranker.


    But Im already the top-level ranker anyway.


    Other nations were just starting the Tutorial, and I most likely had the highest level in Korea. The Devils Fruit came with disadvantages that were as big as its advantages. After a certain point, further growth was difficult, and in the worst case scenario, you would be swallowed by demonic energy and lose all reason.


    One misstep, and youll be a berserker.


    The only person who overcame that and climbed to the top was the Demon King himself, Kang Sun-il.


    In any case, I had an idea as to why these Guardians were suddenly wanting to send me gifts.


    Could it be


    Actually, I already knew. It was just that I needed a little time to be sure.


    That theyre trying to brown-nose me before the Guardian selection?


    I couldnt believe it, but that was how it was. I would pick my Guardian when I reached level 30. The Guardians were always reigning high up there, but for the Guardian selection, and the Guardian selection alone, they were at the mercy of the yer.


    Thats what it is.


    So basically, the Guardians were preening their feathers, saying: <i>Look, Im this great of a Guardian. </i>But I found it a little absurd. I was just one person, but a whole range of descriptions were tacked onto me. Prudence,posure, courage, sense of justice, chivalry, craftiness, the whole gamut. These guys clearly only saw what they wanted to see.[The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain shows great interest in your talent.]


    Finally, even the Guardian of the Sword Empress began toe forward.


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain wishes to make you a priest.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain wishes to pass down the Heavenly Demonic Art to you.]


    The Nameless Observer. The Courageous Lion King. The Lady of the Scales. The Whispering Devil. And now, even the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain. I wasnt even level 30 yet, but there was a frenzied rush to recruit me.


    Compared to the rest, the notices from the Nameless Observer, who had observed me ever since the Tutorial, were a little shabby. They only said they were continuing to observe me.


    Senia said to me, The Guardian Lady of the Scales has gifted me a Pause authority. As yer Kim Hyukjin knows, Pause authorities are extremely expensive.


    The world turned gray. The only spots of color were me and Senia. I took this as the Lady of the Scales acknowledging her mistake.


    A Pause authority. Its not just a reconciliation gift.


    Why did the Lady of the Scales gift Senia a Pause at exactly this time? To let me and Senia talkfortably? It couldnt be just that.


    Shes showing off her wealth.


    Simply put, she was saying: <i>I have a lot of money; I have a lot of Coins. So when you reach level 30, pick me.</i>


    In all honesty, the Lady of the Scales is a Guardian who gives really generous support.


    I was left contemting for a moment.


    At least in the early period, theres no mistake that my talent is remarkable.


    I had met both the Fist King and the Sword Empress, but no one had greater talent than me. At least in the current period, my talent was the most outstanding, and the same went for my knowledge.


    That must be why the Guardians arepeting amongst each other like this.


    It was all in order to nurture the yers who would be their avatars or incarnations. I had no right to converse with the Guardians in person. You could say I was a character in a game. The Guardians and I could onlymunicate through the Streamer Senia.


    Senia. You know all the proposals I got, right?


    Yes.


    I could see her wingtips trembling again. My Eye of Perception picked up on a touch of Senias emotions. Normally, it would be impossible for someone at my level to read the emotions of an Intermediate Administrator. The fact I could perceive them right now could only mean one thing.


    Even though she looks calm on the outside shes just that agitated on the inside.


    This was what winning the lottery had to feel like. Right now, Guardians who had revealed their names, aka influential Guardians, were tripping over each other to reveal that they wanted to give gifts to the yer she had an exclusive contract with. The more Guardians like that there were, the more sessful of a Streamer Senia would be.


    I am very grateful for the Guardians offers.


    Truthfully, I wasnt that grateful. ording to what we learned over ten years, mankind was simply entertainment, nothing more and nothing less. Even absolute good alignment Guardians were just exercising the influence of good within the fun; they didnt treat humans like real individuals. Whatever the actual truth was, that was how mankind had interpreted the Guardians.


    But right now, I cant ept any of them.


    This was an important moment. Guardians had a more petty side to them than one might expect, so many of them disliked it when a mere character in a simple amusement rejected their offer.


    I dare not ept the offer of just one Guardian.


    Right now, in this very moment, it was the time for me to lower myself and be as humble as possible.


    And I dare not ept the offers of all of them.


    Those gifts werent just good will or good intentions. They were wordless messages telling me to choose them when I reached level 30. So what would happen if I epted their presents and didnt choose them?


    Id be failing to draw the big picture.


    Now that I had returned to the past, I wanted to draw a big picture. I wanted to look a little further ahead. No matter what happened, I wanted to achieve my dreams and seed. I too was born as a man, as a proud Korean, and I didnt want to live hand in hand with poverty any longer.


    To make that happen, I needed to look slightly further ahead and be more careful.


    Right now Ill bow my head.


    There were differences depending on their dispositions, but as a whole, Guardians tended to prefer yers who were deferential to them. For most cases, my current actions were the right call.


    For now, I will simply appreciate the intent of all the Guardians who are sponsoring me and y with my very best effort.


    The Guardians retracted their gifting intentions. I grinned inwardly. Depending on what I did, what actions I took, I could serve the Guardians like they were my masters, or turn them into total pushovers.


    Just like how you guys are watching me like your personal jester for entertainment


    I would turn them into pushovers.


    Ill make full use of you.


    Like boiling a frog, very, very slowly, little by little. Especially that courage-lover. I was determined to make the Lion King go bankrupt, without fail. Even now, thinking about the time I almost died in the magic troll raid gave me a spike of rage.


    Senias voice interrupted my thoughts.


    The Pause will soon end.


    With that, the Pause ended.


    * * *


    After hunting the Six-Tailed Fox, the two of us started heading home. In one day, my home would changewed be moving to the apartment my mom had always dreamt of. While on the road, I got a call. It was from Shin Yeonseo.


    That was you, right?


    What?


    You killed a monster at Mt. Inwang, yeah?


    What the heck? The incident hadnt gotten in the media and wasnt at all publicized. I had no idea how she found out so soon and called me.


    Yeah. That was me.


    And then, out of nowhere


    Thanks.


    After talking with her a little, I found out that she wasnt joking. When I nabbed the win in the PVP battle we had, Yeonseo had said something after yelping, Mommy!


    [Man, if our Mrs. Han Myunghye had seen me just now, she wouldve been shocked, huh? I havent called for my mommy since elementary school.]


    One of the women Sunhwa and I had saved today was named Han Myunghye. In other words, the person we saved today on Mt. Inwang was the mother of the future Sword Empress, Shin Yeonseo.


    I cant tell if this is a good or bad thing for Yeonseo.


    If Yeonseos mom, Han Myunghye, had died today?


    She wouldve been burning for revenge.


    The Sword Empress had once said that the driving force for her growth was anger or desire for revenge. Back then, I didnt know exactly why that was the case, because she never publicized her personal matters, but it turned out that way back in the beginning, one of the victims of the tragedy of Mt. Inwang was the Sword Empress mother.


    But now, her mom is alive.


    Did that mean the Sword Empress growth would be stalled? Because her driving force was gone? Was I changing the future a lot right now? I didnt know. I <i>couldnt </i>know. But I didnt regret my actions. I couldnt save everyone, and there was no need to give up on my gains purely to save people, but it was only right to save the people I could save in front of me. I did the right thing.


    Thanks. Ill be sure to repay this favor.


    Those were the same words Id heard multiple times from So Yoohyun. Somehow, Yeonseo and Yoohyun ovepped in my mind.


    What favor? I just happened to be there by coincidence.


    I believe that theres no such thing as coincidence. Its merely that the inevitable strings of fate move us, and we call that coincidence.


    What kind of nonsense was she going on about now?


    Ive decided. Ill attend to you well.


    And then, the call ended. I could guarantee itthis girl just said what was on her mind without realizing it. Attend? I was so dumbfounded that I had tough. The kid walking next to me, Sunhwa, tilted her head at me.


    Oppa. Whyre youughing like you just heard something ridiculous?


    Its nunya business.


    Tch, you should tell me.


    Yep. The future Sword Empress just said she wants to attend to me. But she probably didnt know what that word really meant. Attend. The heavily implied meaning was a woman assisting a man with <i>that</i>.


    Whatever, I inadvertently have her owing me now.


    It was fine. A lot had already changed from the past. I got an apartment in my name and had $100,000 in my bank ount. The future Fist King and Sword Empress had a great deal of goodwill towards me. And also, by my side was Sunhwa, a tank of perhaps even greater talent than them. So much had changed.


    One day passed. The Mt. Inwang incident was treated as important news in the media, with headlines like:


    <i>The high-level monster that appeared on Mt. Inwang.</i>


    <i>One hiker dead, two injured with varying degrees of severity.</i>


    <i>The hero of Mt. Inwang is?</i>


    It was publicized that new monsters of apletely different ss from slimes had appeared, and one of those monsters killed someone. One person bled a great deal from a gash in their stomach and underwent surgery after being transferred to the hospital, but there was no danger to their life.


    I received a call from Yoohyun.


    Hyungnim! The hero of Mt. Inwang, is it you?


    I was about to call Yoohyun anyway. My level was 26. I had to raise it to level 30, and up until level 30, it was really helpful to have help from a party. Or rather, a party was absolutely necessary.


    Cut the chatter ande out to meet me.


    I didnt say much, but Yoohyun seemed sure that I was the hero of Mt. Inwang.


    I knew it was you. The true hero of this era is you, is it not?


    He sure was good at thering all by himself.


    I admire you, hyungnim.


    I called Yeonseo and Yoohyun to meet at a caf in downtown Seoul. Of course, Sunhwa was there, too.


    When we were seated, I said, Theres somece I need to go.


    ying was, of course, apanied by danger, and that applied to geniuses, too. In order to go higher than others, faster than others, <i>of course</i> everyone would take risks. It was the same right now. I couldnt do it alone. I needed their help.


    Were going


    I told them our destination.<i></i>

 Chapter 35: Turtle Nest

    Chapter 35: Turtle Nest


    Just as I expected, Yoohyuns big, calf-like eyes grew wide.


    What?


    His massive arm moved, his bulging muscles squirming. He was sticking his pinky into his ear to scratch an itch, and the veins standing out on his biceps were like frickin earthworms. There was no doubt about it. They were overwhelming muscles. As far as outside appearances went, this guy was undoubtedly the (future) Fist King.


    Yeonseo, who looked almost like a kid next to Yoohyun, stared nkly at me. Are you serious right now?


    At about 160 centimetres, she had a cute appearance that didnt suit the Sword Empress moniker. She poked my side andughed with a Come on! Youre joking, right?


    Im not joking.


    I really wasnt. I meant every word. Yeonseo blinked at me, dumbfounded. She kind of gave me the impression of a chipmunk.


    So let me get this straight. Youll pay for our flight tickets and amodations, so lets go on a vacation to Japan? <i>Tomorrow?</i>


    When did I ever say we were going on a vacation?


    Get your head on straight. Were not going on a vacation. Were going to do a raid.


    Ah, yeah. Right. Sorry. Thought it was a vacation.


    I definitely said raid, but I guess she interpreted it as a vacation since it would require a flight on an airne. It would apparently be Yeonseos first flight, or something like that.


    But were not that close, are we? Not enough to stay out overnight and go on a trip together, she said.


    Its fine if you dont want to.


    Jeez, why so harsh? Its not that I dont want to. She seemed a bit troubled. If I skip ss again, Ill get an F


    Ah. The current Sword Empress was just an ordinary university student. The sight of the future Sword Empress being troubled over an F was almost fascinating to me. She was thinking about it really seriously.


    Eye of Perception was telling me as much.State: Serious / Thinking Hard


    It was obvious even to Eye of Perception, which only picked out the most salient states.


    Ahh! Whatever. Ill just think about it like a date. Iming, too.


    Actually, I thought Yeonseo would refuse. I might have saved her mom before, but we werent all that close, and it wasnt like we were in an intimate rtionship. Even so, she said she woulde. I was going to go to Osaka even without her, but this was better.


    Its much better if Yeonseoes along.


    After Yeonseo agreed toe, Yoohyun pounded his chest a couple of times with those bulky arms of his. He was like a human gori.


    Ill go wherever hyungnim goes, no matter where! Even if that ce is Japan!


    To be more precise, it was Osaka, Japan. It wasnt possible to go to Tokyo at the moment because the Tutorial was still in progress there.


    I already owe you my life. Where <i>wouldnt </i>I dare to go for you? I might hate Japan, but Ill go anyway.


    It didnt look like Yoohyun went through much mental calction or anything. He didnt ask what would happen if he came or what was there and simply gave me his answer first.


    If youre a man, once you give your word, thats that, right?


    I remembered his summary.Summary: Debt-Repaying Magpie


    Before, I only focused on the Debt-Repaying part, but now, I was starting to understand why the Magpie part was so apt.


    Magpies are birds, and birds arent that smart. There was a reason why Eye of Perception referred to magpies, a type of bird. The Fist King ten yearster seemed to have be smarter after rolling with the punches for a decade, but the current Yoohyun was the epitome of simplicity and honesty.


    Thats not a bad thing.


    Though simple and honest, this Debt-Repaying Magpie put an immensely high value on loyalty. The way he was right now, he would probably even sacrifice his life for me.


    Sunhwa asked, Oppa, what about me?


    Sunhwa, who was clutching a corner of my clothes, seemed to be saying, I want to go too.


    Ill take care of your paperwork. If you dont want to go, tell me.


    Like it or not, she was now my little sister. With President Song Kiyoungs assistance, everything sorted itself out with lightning speed, almost like popping a bag of popcorn with a lightning bolt. This was the power of a chaebol. In any case, Sunhwa was now legally 100% my little sister, and her name was even changed to Kim Sunhwa.


    No! I want to go! A lot! Ive never gone on a ne before!


    With that, our party was set. The future Fist King, the future Sword Empress. Me, the person familiar with the strategy. And finally, our little tank, who I felt was even more talented than the Fist King or Sword Empress.


    With thisbo Its got to be the strongest for the beginner level.


    Yoohyun was a tank/DPS.


    Yeonseo was a DPS.


    Sunhwa was a tank.


    And me?


    What was I? It was a bit hard to say. I was also a tank/DPS, but It didnt feel quite right to just put it as that.


    Whatever.


    That wasnt important. The important thing was that our party was formed and wed be going to Osaka tomorrow.


    * * *


    My sisters reaction was exactly as I expected.


    She didnt let much of her feelings show, simply staring at me once with a curt expression. Then, she asked, The hell is this?


    Our house.


    So, Im asking, the hell is this?


    The house where well be living.


    Exin.


    For now, my sister didnt seem too happy.State: Uneasy / Doubt / Worry


    It was a natural reaction. I suddenly brought her to a 110 m newly built apartment in downtown Seoul, something ordinary folks could hardly dream of, so she was more taken aback and fearful than happy. She was worrying about whether I did something bad, or what in the world I did to get this. Her suspicion and fear was all too natural and reasonable.


    I won something like the lottery.


    Lottery?


    It would take a long time to exin, and I couldnt exin everything in detail anyway. I also had no real desire to do so. The ying I was going to keep doing was dangerous, no two ways around it, and both my mom and sister would worry greatly about me if they knew. I didnt really want to worry them.


    Noona. Listen. Ive be a yer, and Im now enjoying first-mover advantages. I recently met with the president of Sungshin and got a sponsorship.


    I gave her a bare-bones exnation.


    So I bought a house. Mom, you, and me. Sunhwa getting adopted as a daughter of our family was also super easy thanks to this.


    Dont worry. I wont do anything really dangerous. You know me, noona. Im a wuss.


    Though I <i>did </i>kill a lycanthrope and a magic troll in the Tutorial, cleared the Seoul Station Dungeon and a gate, and was leaving the country to go to Osaka tomorrow. Ah, right. I also caught a six-tailed fox. All of those things screamed Danger with a capital D, but I said it was safe.


    The world is changing quickly, and Im adapting to it.


    There was no need for my mom and sister to adapt. They could live as they always had. They just had to keep going, staying safe. I would do all the adapting. I alone was more than enough.


    Im adapting really well, you know?


    The former civil service student was gone. I wasbing through strats hundredseven thousandsof times a day, making ns for the future. And with every passing day, I was making those ns a reality. Because I didnt want to be filtered out by natural selection likest time, I was spending every second like it was precious and doing my best. This time, I was determined to live well.


    So dont worry. This is a house I purchased through totally reasonable and not dangerous means by enjoying my first-mover advantage. Noona, exin it to mom for meter.


    My sisters state changed a little.State: Doubt / Uneasy / Relief


    Relief was added, and she became a little more rxed. For today, that was enough.


    Noona. Trust me. I dont do bullshit things.


    I asked her to exin things to mom for me. My mom was a woman of many worries. She wouldnt ept things as easily as my sister, and it would take time to exin every little thing.


    I grinned.


    Im getting on an early morning flight to go on a trip to Japan. With my friends. Ive won the lottery, so Im gonna go enjoy it once.


    * * *


    Our destination was Osaka. In order to get to Osaka, our nended in the Kansai International Airport.


    Awesome. Awesome. Freaking awesome.


    Yeonseo, who was donning a light and fluttery sky-blue dress, kept spewing out awesome, her face full of excitement. There was no need for her to be tense yet, so I just let her be.


    Its my first time ever going on an airne, and its not even to Jeju Ind, but over frickin seas. And for <i>free.</i> She raised her thumb at me. Our magnanimous Mr. Hyukjin is covering all our costs. Are you actually a chaebol? Ive never heard or seen of this. Usually, youre supposed to carefully n a vacation several months in advance while saving up before you go.


    My god, you have a lot to say.


    Anyhoo, thanks. I dont know you all that well yet, but Ill definitely buy you a meal.


    A meal? She would be doing quite a bit more than that. I didnt tell her yet. There was no point in telling hershe just had to experience it first-hand.


    We took the bus all the way to the Nanba Terminal.


    It was called the Nanba Terminal or Nanba Station, but despite being a station, it was a ce for buses to go in and out, not a subway.


    The ce where the Nanba Terminal Dungeon will form.


    I hadnt decided yet whether I woulde back here to clear that dungeon or not. It was still a minimum of one year in the future, after all. Nevertheless, it was good to learn theyout of this area in advance.


    Id seen it many times on Youtube, but seeing it in person was a different experience. It was especially important to take note of means of transportation like the stairs, esctors, elevators, and cover where you could hide. It was also good to visually confirm areas (spots) where you could run to in case of emergency.


    I think Ive got a pretty good grasp of it now.


    I made a point ofing here to walk around in order to engrave this ce in my mind.


    Though well, theres nothing special yet.


    I took the kids on a trip around the Nanba area, absorbing information the entire time. Now that we were in Osaka, it was time to start getting a little more serious.


    Let me remind you once again that were not here to y.


    When the dungeon was first generated here in Nanba Terminal, 300 people died. That was what ying was like. Not just one, or maybe two victims, but hundreds, sometimes thousands, could be ughtered in one fell swoop. In just Jongno alone, a staggering 145,000 people had died.


    Were going to the hotel to rest a little, and then well go to Dotonbori.


    Dotonbori. You could think of it as Japans version of Koreas Myeongdong. It was a bustling ce with all sorts of restaurants and shops. It was essentially the main street of Osaka. Running along the main street was a canal far bigger than Seouls Cheonggyecheon, but still too small to be called a real river.


    At that, Yeonseo started to be a little tense.


    A gate will form in Dotonbori, right?


    Yes. I didnt know exactly where, but there was no mistake. A gate would be generated there, almost at the same time Japans Tutorial ended.


    If you look at the time at which the gate broke It either formed right after the Tutorial, or formed even before the Tutorial was cleared.


    Originally, this gate wasnt sessfully cleared. After a certain amount of time, it broke. From the gate spilled out Gold Turtles that dragged over 100 people into the water and ruthlessly devoured them.


    If possible, I want to find the gate and clear it.


    And if that was impossible


    We have to catch them, even if we have to do it outside the gate.


    Gold Turtles. Like their name suggested, they were creatures that dropped a huge amount of Coins, creatures I absolutely needed to kill.


    On the first day, we werent able to find any particr things of note in Dotonbori.


    The second day was the same. We didnt gain much. However, there was a big change in Japan. On the second day, the Tutorial Field in Tokyo was cleared, and the Tutorial Ender of Japan, Seijuro, was born.


    <i>The survival rate has been tallied at around 33%</i>


    Far more people survived in Japans Tutorial than in Koreas. Most of the advanced countries were familiar with Koreas situation in advance, and they had made some preparations, just in case.


    Soon, the worlds Tutorial woulde to an end. Everyone would enter beginner fields. The levels of yers would surpass 30, going past the beginner period into level 40. When that happened, ying in the true sense of the word would begin.


    The second day was as fruitless as the first. But on the third day, while we werebing through the Dotonbori region like before, we suddenly heard a voice.


    Ill start off by telling you in advance that you are the only ones who can see me.

 Chapter 36: Turtle Nest (2)

    Chapter 36: Turtle Nest (2)


    Ill start off by telling you in advance that you are the only ones who can see me.


    Turning around, they saw the Streamer Senia who had an exclusive contract with Hyukjin. She was as expressionless as ever, and it was impossible to tell what she was thinking.


    Once the proficiency of Eye of Perception gets higher, Ill probably be able to read Senias state.


    It was still a long way in the future, but Hyukjin was sure it was possible.


    In any case, it wasnt hard to guess why Senia made a personal appearance right now.


    She must be curious as to why we came to Japan, and why weve specifically been going around like this in Dotonbori for the past few days.


    A Streamer had the role of transmitting and rying coverage of ying to the Guardians.


    Shell want to exin to the Guardians.


    Exnations like hes doing this and this kind of ying here for this and that reason.


    Why are you in Japan?


    Vacation.


    Theposition of your group is too unordinary to see this as a simple vacation.


    Hyukjin also acknowledged the truth behind her words, but that didnt matter.


    Do I have to reveal my personal matters to you? Business is business, and personal life is personal life. Even yers certainly have something called a private life. Id bet the Guardians also respect that?


    The channel was likely already open. He waited for a Guardian to back up his words. For example, someone like the Lady of the Scales.[The Lady of the Scales sympathizes with your words.]


    Sure enough, the Lady of the Scales backed Hyukjin up.[The Whispering Devil detests your words.]


    Hyukjin very nearly scowled. Every time he said something undeniably right, this guy just had to show his hate.


    Maybe hes just a hater. For someone whos only sponsored me once, hes sure got a lot of nerve.


    Hyukjin crossed his arms. Why? Is there something rted to ying here?


    Yep, caught red-handed.


    In ordance with the Commandments, an Intermediate Administrator is forbidden from personally interfering in ying or acting in a way that leaks information.


    But you <i>can</i> give information in the form of a quest.


    Senia closed her mouth. That alone was a big clue for Hyukjin.


    So its correct that a gate will form here.


    If he had to find the gate anyway, it would be better to get a quest and look for it rather than going in blind. That would help in finding it, too. He could also get a quest reward just for finding the gate, so itd be like killing two birds with one stone.


    Though that wasnt in my n.


    But that was fine. The greatest efficiency in the least amount of timethat was the fundamental principle of ying, wasnt it?


    Hyukjin knew.


    If I say something like this then the small fry will make a fuss.


    He knew the insignificant Guardians who hadnt revealed their namessimply put, the peanut gallerywould be making a big fuss in Senias channel.


    Hyukjin was right on the mark.


    [Thats right. Lets give out a quest.]


    [The Japan Tutorial is also over, so lets give out a quest to mix things up.]


    [Quest! Quest! Intermediate, give him a quest!]


    [Is there any billionaire here who would do the kindness of issuing a quest to that yer?]


    Senia stared at Kim Hyukjin. Actually, she had been observing Hyukjin for several hours with the channel closed. After several hours of watching, she concluded that there was no way Hyukjin was here for a vacation. From his ying, he was definitely searching for something. And then, he suddenly riled up the Guardians by mentioning a quest, which the Guardians fell forhook, line, and sinker.


    Could it be that this was what he intended?


    Surely not. It was unlikely that his actions were so calcted. All things considered, he was still a yer in the beginner period, and he didnt seem to have had a True Name Awakening. How could a new yer possibly manipte the Guardians like that?


    It couldnt have been intentional


    There was no way. No matter how shabby the Guardian, as long as they wanted to, it was no difficult feat to squash one measly yer, though it did take a lot of Coins. How could a yer dare to y tricks on such powerful beings?


    A yer who didnt know that fact wouldnt be able to do such a thing, and a yer who did know wouldnt dare to do such a thing.


    Theres no way, but I think it was intentional.


    The possibility was very high. Logically, it shouldnt be the case, but Senias eyes and intuition were telling her that this yer, Kim Hyukjin, intentionally created this situation.


    The yer she was doubting, Hyukjin, was just as aware. He knew it was absolutely a dangerous thing to scheme with the Guardians as his opponents, to manipte them. You could say it was like treading a tightrope.


    But itll take more than this to kill me.


    And one day, the roles would be reversed. Because the Guardians were many, but he was just one person. There were many Guardians who could rece another Guardians spot, but there was no yer who could rece him. He would make it so that he was irreceable.


    Senia calmly opened her mouth, forming silent words that yers couldnt hear in a GuardianIntermediate Administrator conversation.


    I have the authority to issue a quest, but Ick the Coins for one.


    She was perfectly calm about it and only spoke the truth without expecting much. A stream of administrator messages instantly flooded her.


    [The Whispering Devil wishes to issue a quest.]


    [The Lady of the Scales wishes to issue a quest.]


    [The Courageous Lion King wishes to issue a quest.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain wishes to issue a quest.]


    A whopping four Guardians requested a quest. Senia was rendered speechless for a while. It took a lot for Guardians to open their purses, but they were moring over something as minor as a quest bestowal. And they werent even small fries, but four<i>four!</i>Guardians who had True Names.


    That just meant they were watching Kim Hyukjins ying that seriously.


    But just then, another message popped up.


    [The Nameless Observer has sent you a 3,000 Coin sponsorship.]


    [The Nameless Observer wishes to issue a quest.]


    With that, the Nameless Observer became the quest giver. The other Guardians fell quiet.[The Nameless Observer does not wish to reveal their name.]


    As such, the quest was given in Senias name.


    * * *


    Senia issued our party a quest.


    [The quest Turtle Nest has been triggered.]


    [Clear the Turtle Nest.]


    I found it a little odd.


    Senia herself issued the quest?


    By the standards of the future, she was a Streamer who wouldnt be able to survive. In other words, shecked the funds. She had even sacrificed 3,000 Coins to me, so she shouldnt have any leeway to issue a quest.


    An Intermediate Administrators quest


    Was she overflowing with Coins?


    I thought one of the Guardians would issue it.


    I couldnt read anything from Senias expression. It did look like she had a chat with the Guardians opened and was talking to them, but it was hard to discern everything from just that.


    Yeonseo murmured as if amazed, Its a quest.


    [Quest  Turtle Nest]


    Traces of a suspicious gate have been discovered somewhere in Dotonbori.


    Find and destroy the Turtle Nest.


    Looks like there really is a gate somewhere around here.


    Then did you think there wouldnt be one?


    I could feel that Senia was concentrating on our conversation. She had to be extremely curious. Why I formed a party and came to Japan, and Dotonbori in Osaka of all ces, how I knew, she had to be curious about it all.


    But you know, its really amazing. You seem like a genius, or maybe like you have some kind of special ability.


    I just chuckled. I could onlyugh when faced with this Sword Empress in her pure days who was sincerely amazed. I never knew that one of the 8 Heroes who would lead the future, the Sword Empress who confronted the Demon King, was ever this pure and innocent.


    Whyre youughing?


    Just cause.


    Be honest, you thought I was cute, right?


    You crazy? Do you not know what cute is?


    But really, how did you know toe here? Im like seriously curious.


    Even though I was talking to Yeonseo, I was still keenly cognizant of Senia. My brain was whirling, thinking about how best I should answer.


    I had a dream.


    A dream?


    Senias wingtips fluttered. Yes, a dream. This was a good answer. I decided to borate a little.


    Something like a precognitive dream.


    P-Precognitive dream? That kind of stuff really exists?


    There are yers, there are monsters, and there are dungeons, so do you think precognitive dreams are out of bounds?


    T-Thats true, I guess.


    Of course, I hadnt had one. Seeing as Senia was talking to the Guardians again, it looked like she had begun to fall for it. After all, there really were yers who awakened an innate ability called Precognitive Dream. It was also a somewhat moremon ability than one might expect.


    After walking for a bit, Sunhwa tugged my sleeve. Oppa, Im hungry.


    That so?


    It was indeedabout time to eat. Wed all be yers, but after walking all day long, it was natural that Sunhwa would be hungry and tired.


    I decided to stop for a meal.


    Is there anything you want to eat?


    Can I really say what I want to eat?


    It wasnt a big deal or anything, but Sunhwa only answered after squirming for a while, like she wasnt used to such kindness.


    I want to eat gyukatsu.


    * * *


    Hm. How to exin this.


    Kyaaaaaaa!


    People were screaming as they scrambled out. I could see a Japanese sign in front of me, and even though I couldnt read it because it was in Japanese, the picture was definitely gyukatsu. We came here to eat gyukatsu because Sunhwa said thats what she wanted, but it turned out that people were screaming as they fled from that very gyukatsu restaurant.


    D-Do you think its okay to go inside, hyungnim?


    Yoohyun appeared a little frightened, which didnt match his enormous bulk in the least. It almost looked like his big, sturdy muscles were shriveling a tiny bit.


    Lets go.


    I walked into the gyukatsu restaurant. Everyone had left, leaving the restaurantpletely deserted. Inside, I saw something that looked like a ck hole. It was possible to click it.[Gate  Turtle Nest]


    We found it? said Yeonseo, rather bitterly.


    My feelings mirrored her own. We came because Sunhwa said she wanted to eat gyukatsu, and it just so happened that a gate opened here, as if to mock our efforts for the past three days.


    It must be a coincidence, right?


    It was probably just a coincidence, but why did I get the feeling it wasnt? Still, it was more appropriate and simple to pass it off as a coincidence for now.


    Are we going in, hyungnim?


    Yeah. Sunhwa, you take the lead.


    Yoohyun and Yeonseo were clearly not yet used to pushing a young girl to the front, but they didnt contradict me. We had to get used to this. Even that strong-looking body of Yoohyuns wasnt as sturdy as Sunhwas. We couldnt let ourselves be misled by outer appearances.


    Sunhwa was also used to my methods by now. To be more precise, she was faithful to her role.


    Got it.


    Once a gate was cleared, it would normally disappear. Before I regressed, the Turtle Nest was originally a gate that had broken, and because of that, there was no strategy for it. In other words, we would have to clear this gate without a strategy guide.[You have entered the Turtle Nest.]


    Even so, I had plenty of confidence. Japan had just barely cleared their Tutorial. At most, the gate wouldnt exceed beginner grade. And we were a party of four people who could be called top rankers in the beginner grade.


    Its dark.


    The whole ce was dark. Although the day and night cycle didnt apply to gates, to put it in terms of the time of day, it wasnt nighttime, but sometime around evening, the point at which it starts getting dark.


    A swamp?


    It was humid. The field was arge swamp, with mud at our feet and reeds and other unknown grasses growing here and there. There were also pools scattered about, with lotus flowers blooming on the surface.


    It was the first gate I was challenging without the strategy.


    Lets start by figuring out the geographic features.


    That was gate clearing 101. Ascertain the geographic features. Figure out the traps, the Safe Zone, and the monsters. Getting information was the first step.


    Huh?


    But someone had beaten us to it and was already inside. That someone approached us and asked,


    Just what the hell are you guys?


    That someone hadpletely slipped past Eye of Perceptions radar.

 Chapter 37: Pull it Together Already

    Chapter 37: Pull it Together Already


    Just what the hell are you guys?


    I could see them with my eyes, but Eye of Perception couldnt pick up on them. That meant they were a lifeform with far greater ability than me, an existence I couldnt figure out with my level of strength.


    I already knew what such a being was. Even Senia, who I spoke to as if I were careless of her status, was naturally far stronger than me. It was the same for the tiny pixie who addressed us.


    A Streamer.


    I knew this Streamers identity. She was the Intermediate Administrator whose fame would spread wide and far in the future, one of the top three famous Streamers in Japan.


    The pixie Celine.


    She was only about as big as my finger. She had yellow hair. Looking at just her face, she gave off the feeling of Tinkerbell from the fairytales, but her stomach was round and protruding. There was another name that was often used to refer to the obese pixie Celine. Like famous yers, she was a Streamer with a nickname.


    Rising Star Excavator.


    Celine had uncovered many genius-level yers. She had such a knack for it that there was a popr saying that those in Japan who were picked by her had at least a 50% chance of sess.


    Before I could respond to her, Senia stepped forward first. I was the yer she had signed an exclusive contract with, her source of quality content. She was taking initiative to exclude any possibility of Celine harming me, which made this a conversation between Streamers. We couldnt butt in.


    If Celine is here, that means It could only mean one thing. There should be a yer here, too.


    She had to be streaming someone, but I couldnt detect that yer. I had no idea where they were. They might even be in stealth mode using a bonus they got from a Guardian.


    Is there a yer who already awakened and came here In Japan, where they just finished the Tutorial?


    I didnt know, and I couldnt know. As far as my experience from the past went, the Turtle Nest definitely broke. That meant it hadnt been cleared. If things followed the path of history, that meant the yer who came in here had died.


    Even if they already awakened, theyre low-level anyway.


    While I was sorting out my thoughts, Celine and Senias conversation seemed to have wrapped up. Celine snickered as she addressed us again.


    In my eyes, theres something about you guys. I get the whiff of something. She stroked her protruding belly. Thats what my belly is telling me. Theres something special about you guys. Like the smell of an old veteran, perhaps?


    Celines eyes narrowed, almost as if she were searching us.


    My, oh my. I get the strong feeling I chose the wrong server.


    Rubbing her nose regretfully, she fluttered in ce, sparkling powder falling from her tiny wings. Then, she muttered all to herself, Its a bitte, but maybe I should switch to the Korean server?


    She pointed at me with her small hand. You. Especially you. Theres something about you. I get the feeling theres something huge about you. Though I dont know what that is. Then, she turned and fluttered away like a butterfly, bing smaller and smaller. I think we''ll see each other often.


    * * *


    We searched our surroundings thoroughly. The swamp had sludgy mud, thickets of nts that could be either weed or thatch, and small crabs or insects I couldnt identify crawling at our feet.


    After around one hour, Yeonseo asked me, Will the Clear Crystal even show up if we just look around like this?


    It <i>was </i>important to look for the Clear Crystal. To clear a gate, you either had to destroy the Clear Crystal or hunt the boss monster. Normally, you had to do one of the two.


    Who knows? I dont know the strategy either. We have to try to find something that might be a clue, no matter what that might be.


    It wasnt a lie. I knew there were definitely Gold Turtles somewhere here, but I didnt know where. Seeing as the name of this ce was Turtle Nest, the gate clearly had a close connection to Gold Turtles.


    Its too inefficient for us to all move in a group.


    Lets split up into pairs.


    Yeonseo stared at me with a huh?, and Sunhwa tugged the hem of my clothes a little. It seemed she was reluctant to be apart from me. It was an obvious show of childishness. I didnt react to each and every one of her little actions.


    Because this shouldnt be that dangerous of a gate.


    It had appeared in a country that had just finished their Tutorial. It should be a gate that matched Japans current level. Gold Turtles themselves were also not very dangerous. Basically, it shouldnt be as dangerous as Sunhwa felt it was.


    Its more efficient to move separately.


    Yeonseo gave me a doubtful look. In such a big ce? What if we cant find each other again? Our smartphones have no reception here. What if we get lost?


    Buy a Gate Map from the Item Shop.


    Eh? Something like that exists?


    Of course. Though unfortunately, it cost 1,000 Coins.


    What? But you know this thing costs 1,000 Coins?


    Should be cheaper than your life.


    Yeonseo looked on the verge of tears. I just barely saved up 1,000 Coins


    The mighty future Sword Empress whined, crying crocodile tears. Future Sword Empress she might be, but a low-level beginner was exactly thata beginner. Of course, I had no intention of entertaining her whining.


    Yoohyun resolutely said, If hyungnim says to do it, I gotta do it. He immediately purchased the Gate Map. I also opened the Item Shop.


    [You have purchased a Gate Map.]


    [-1,000 Coins]


    Gate Maps were minimaps that could be used within a gate. You could check the location of party members in real time and also send a signal on the minimap when necessary.


    The way to use it should be provided.


    The activation word was Gate Map.


    In case youre in a dangerous situation or need help, or need tomunicate something, you can send a signal through the minimap.


    I gave a quick demonstration. The Gate Map opened up in front of me like a hologram. Our locations were marked with red dots.


    If youre not in danger, but need to send an alert, use yellow.


    A yellow light shed at my location.


    If youre in danger, red.


    This time, a red light shed.


    Pay constant attention to the Gate Map while youre going around. And be careful to not make too much noise, since you might pull unexpected aggro or something. The signals will alternate between yellow and red. Everyone clear?


    After trying it a few times, Yoohyun and Yeonseo quickly got the hang of using it. The same went for Sunhwa.


    Yes, hyungnim. Ill go with Yeonseo.


    We split up and started looking for something that might serve as a clue.


    * * *


    Yoohyuns Intermediate Administrator, Neptune, was forced toe to terms with an unbelievable situation.


    Guardians who didnt reveal their names were definitely rabble. They weremonly referred to as beggars among the Streamers, but they were certainly important all the same. There had to be many of these beggars in order to increase Guardian viewer count, which then increased an Intermediate Administrators rank, allowing them to draw in more Guardians.


    My channel


    Wasnt just a little emptier than usual, but


    Is way emptier than usual.


    How could this be?


    [The Constetion of the Red Wish has left.]


    [The Master of the Whirlwind has left.]


    Even two Guardians who had revealed their True Names left his channel.


    Theres even Shin Yeonseo here!


    Shin Yeonseo was an outstandingly talented yer, a promising yer who had caught the attention of important Guardians like the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain. Even though there were two talents here, nearly half of his viewers had left.


    There was one reason for it.


    Theres no mistake. Theyve flocked to Senia.


    So Yoohyun was definitely quality content. But Senia had quality content even better than that, and the Guardians had apparently entered Senias channel in great numbers.


    Neptune began to do his role as an Intermediate Administrator, using his characteristic way of speech.


    Great Guardians, dont you think yer Kim Hyukjin is simply too strange? Do you think Senia exined the Gate Map to him in advance? He seemed too familiar with it.


    Kim Hyukjin already had an exclusive contract with Senia. He could only be closely observed through Senia.


    Right now, it was necessary to stir up intrigue that had no basis in reality.


    In order to relieve your curiosity, I will try making a formal appeal. I get the feeling that hes using a bug somehow. I will look into it.


    * * *


    So Yoohyun cleared the reed forest as he walked.


    Careful, careful.


    Hyukjin had told him to constantly watch his feet, since there could be pits of water in the ground. In swamps like these, there were usually quagmires. Thats why they moved in pairsone person in front, one in the back. In case the person in the front fell into a bog, the person in the back could fish them out.


    Isnt that a monster over there?


    There was something moving slowly within the thicket.Gold Turtle LVL 11


    Its only level 11. Do we kill it?


    Lets send a yellow signal to hyungnim first.


    When they slowly got closer, they saw a turtle with a yellow shell. It was about the same size as a city fox. For a turtle, it was really big.


    Very slowly, they approached the Gold Turtle. However, the Gold Turtle seemed to be an extremely sensitive monster.


    Hey, Muscles. Its hiding in its shell. What do we do?


    Dunno. Should I beat it up?


    I think theres a bog up ahead. Its better to be a bit careful about it.


    After sending a signal through the Gate Map, the two of them decided to just observe. They were currently inside a gate. There was no knowing what might happen. They decided to wait for a moment until Hyukjin arrived.


    When a little time had passed, someone appeared from within the reed thicket.


    Is it you, hyungn Ah, its not. Who is this dude? You. yer?


    He looked like a Japanese person. It was the Japanese yer being streamed by the Streamer who had a knack for uncovering rising stars, Celine. Yoohyun and the Japanese personmunicated using hand gestures and broken English.


    Um, so. That thing. Thats. You hunting?


    Yoohyun was trying to ask if the other person was hunting that, and the Japanese person seemed to understand. He shook his head.


    No. Monster. Defense. Very, very strong.


    He was probably saying that the monsters defensive strength was very high. The Japanese person took something out of his Inventory. Seeing that, Yoohyuns eyes grew wide, as did Yeonseos.


    What the heck, is this guy some kind of fisherman?


    Inside the Japanese persons Inventory was a-like item, and captured within that were ten or so Gold Turtles. The problem was that all of them were hiding in their yellow shells.


    Yeonseo had caught the drift. So basically he caught them, but their defense is too high for him to kill them. So hes just collecting them. In any case, it doesnt seem like theyre strong monsters.


    As far as monsters went, the only ones they could see here were those Gold Turtles, which could mean that the Gold Turtles were the key to clearing this gate. There was a high chance of that, but as beginner yers, Yoohyun and Yeonseo hadnt quite realized that yet.


    Whens Hyukjining?


    It seemed they would see a way to resolve this only if Hyukjin came. The reed thicket shook, and the three yers felt someone approaching. But just then, the Japanese person screamed and buckled.


    Gyaaagh! N-Nandayo! (W-What the!)


    While screaming, he iled and caught Yeonseos ankle. Yeonseo instantly had the feeling of being sucked forward. As she staggered, she caught sight of something.


    W-Whats that?!


    There was somethingpletely different in shape than a turtle. The monster sprang out of the bog and chomped down on the Japanese persons leg, dragging him back into the bog. Before long, the bog was red with the blood pouring out of the Japanese persons body.


    T-Tasukete! (Save me!)


    He iled, trying not to get sucked in. He put every ounce of his strength into the hand clutching Yeonseos ankle. Yeonseo had a hunch. If things went on like this


    I-Ill get sucked in, too.


    His determination to live, his craving for life, all of it drew forth dormant strength. Strength far greater than what he could normally muster concentrated in the Japanese yers right hand. Some Guardian might have even gifted him something like grip strength for desperate struggling.


    W-What do I do?


    Yeonseo, who was still much closer to being a regr person than a yer, was unable to handle this unforeseen ident. Yoohyun was the same. Both of them had genius-level talent, but they were still regr people who had lived twenty ordinary years of life. They panicked, their minds going nk, and that left thempletely unable to react.


    The Japanese mans body was already chest-deep within the bog, which was aplete sea of blood. Desperation was stark on his face. His craving for life was written in bold letters in his eyes, as it would be for most people.


    Tasukete! (Save me!)


    Yeonseos body reeled and swayed. Yoohyun, who was standing behind her, grabbed her arm. However, the strength dragging Yeonseo into the bog was stronger than his strength to resist.


    For a moment, Yeonseo waspletely unable to act.


    Huh huh?


    If things went on like this, it was nearly certain that her body would be dragged into the swamp. And just as she was dazedly thinking that, Hyukjin appeared.

 Chapter 38: Pull it Together Already (2)

    Chapter 38: Pull it Together Already (2)


    As soon as he saw a yellow signal on the Gate Map, Hyukjin moved in that direction. When that signal turned red, Hyukjin saw it.


    Thats


    He couldnt get a proper look at it because of its long, protruding snout. He didnt see its name or description, and he couldnt read its exact information through Eye of Perception. However, that long, protruding snout, the sharp teeth, its hunting method of dragging prey into the swamp Hyukjin was very familiar with this monster.


    A Swamp Alligator.


    This monster with the straightforward name, the Swamp Alligator, was about level 17. The monsters true abilities themselves werent that strong. The problem was that this ce was a swamp.


    An alligator in a bog has the strength of a level 25 monster at <i>least</i>.


    No, it might even be higher than that. They were very tricky to hunt. In order to catch one within a bog, your attack had to punch through the bog. Normally, they were hunted by long-ranged yers with longspears, bows, or ammunition weapons.


    And you have to be very high-level.


    The bog protected it. Not only was the alligator not visible inside the bog, but it also took an attack with great piercing power to hit it. It was a monster with the exact opposite trait as a lycanthropeweak onnd, but in water or when it was in a bog, it became extremely strong and difficult to face.


    Sunhwa, take your time following, Hyukjin said.


    The moment he saw that snout, that bloody bog, Hyukjin instinctively realized what he had to do. He still didnt have any real experience doing this, and he had never done it personally. All he knew were the countless pieces of knowledge and strategies from the future. However, he moved naturally, as if that knowledge were already engraved in his body.[Using the special skill sh Step.]


    sh Step. The peerless, lightness technique that the Sword Empress he knew had used. Hyukjins body instantly disappeared and reappeared directly in front of the bloody bog, right between Yeonseo and the man being sucked in. There, he swung his sword.


    <i>Crrgk!</i>


    Something was sliced.


    At the same time, Yeonseo screamed.


    Kyaaaa!


    * * *


    Yeonseo didnt see Hyukjining. She wasnt even able to determine where or when he appeared. That was because his special skill, sh Step, allowed him to move freely to any point within the skills range without any sound or trace.


    W-What?


    The moment Hyukjin appeared, he swung his sword. Yeonseo looked down and saw it


    A severed, masterless wrist, still clutching her ankle.


    H-H-He cut it.


    Blood surged out of the severed wrist like a red fountain. That fountain of blood covered Yeonseo, and the hand that had gripped Yeonseos ankle with desperate strength fell to the ground, twitching before falling still. The Kyaaaa scream that had disappeared into silence now felt like an auditory hallucination.


    A lot of blood sshed onto Hyukjins body as well. He quickly ascertained the situation.


    He was able to grab Yeonseos ankle this hard with just one hand?


    That was impossible.


    A Guardians ruse.


    Some Guardian probably bestowed some kind of bonus in order to see an amusing spectacle. Hyukjin bit his lips. As one might expect, he was ill at ease. He had just cut off the hand of a person who had been alive until just now. Hed made the decision quickly, but it wasnt like carrying it out was easy.


    The Guardians sent messages in response to the situation.


    [The Nameless Observer continues to observe.]


    [The Whispering Devil is happy.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain ps his hands.]


    [The Lady of the Scales is silent.]


    However, Hyukjin decided not to show his emotions. He turned to Yeonseo.


    Pull it together already, will you? Why did you scream? What were you going to do if there was a monster sensitive to sound?


    B-But


    If you had gotten dragged in, you would have also died.


    The future Sword Empress, Yeonseo, hadnt yet shed her civilian shell. It wasnt like Hyukjin didnt understand that, but it was simply too dangerous.


    Yeonseo bit her lips, thinking, I


    Her mind had gone nk. She couldnt think. While she was floundering, Hyukjin had appeared and sliced off the Japanese mans hand, and thanks to that, she was able to survive. She stared at the bog, which had be a sea of blood. Even without seeing it, she knew. The Japanese yer was dead.


    Scary.


    For the briefest moment, she thought that it was scary. She bit her lips again.


    No. Its not scary.


    To be exact, it wasnt scary, but too unfamiliar. Blood. Corpses. Monsters. People dying. It was all still unfamiliar.


    For a long time, Yeonseo was unable to say anything. She finally opened her mouth. Sorry.


    She was born with outstanding talent and qualities. It was just that they hadnt bloomed yet. She didnt have any thoughts of quitting ying. Rather, she <i>wanted </i>to y. Even if it was very dangerous, right now, her interest in ying in itself was growing.


    I was so shocked I couldnt think of anything.


    You have nothing to apologize for, Hyukjin grunted resolutely. Just dont forget that if you hadnt been lucky, there wouldnt have been a next time.


    His words were true. Even for the amazing Sword Empress, if her heart was pierced or her neck sliced, she would die. If shed been dragged into the quagmire like the man just now, she would be long dead by now. If she had been unlucky, Yeonseo wouldnt be standing here.


    She nodded. She understood what Hyukjin was saying. She couldnt define what he did as correct, but at the very least, she knew it was thanks to his actions that she survived.


    Hes right.


    She learned something by looking at Hyukjin. It was hard to put into words, but it felt like she broke a wall. She learned firsthand that this was how you were supposed to y. She felt like she learned a great deal about something she couldnt quite exin.


    Thank you. For saving me.


    * * *


    The quagmire that had sucked in the Japanese yer quickly absorbed everything, even the blood the man had spilled, bing a bog so ordinary that nothing seemed to have happened.


    Hyungnim, why are we still waiting here? asked Yoohyun.


    We have to kill it.


    That alligator-like monster?


    I nodded. We couldnt dive into the bog. That would maybe be possible only if there were a rather outstanding elementalist or magician here.


    How do we kill it?


    Once it finishes its meal itll be drowsy.


    My heart felt heavy. Finishing its meal was basically the same thing as saying that it had eaten the yer. Regardless, after filling its stomach, the monster would emerge from the bog. Swamp Alligators liked to take naps onnd.


    Sunhwa peered doubtfully at the bog. Does that mean the monster will take a nap or something?


    Dont you think theres a possibility that might happen?


    It wasnt a possibility, but a sure thing. The monster would soon surface.


    Itd be great if that did happen, by some chance. I get the feeling I saw something like this in a dream. For now, lets wait.


    My party members looked at me with dubious expressions, shooting me looks that clearly wondered whether the alligator would truly surface, but I didnt relieve their doubts. There was no way to exin, anyway. The Streamer who couldnt vite my exclusive contract with Senia, Celine, was observing from a distance, and Senia was also waiting in silence.


    They must think that Im a Precognitive Dream user.


    ying wasnt done alone, in a vacuum. I had to use the situation I was given to the utmost. I just had to give a justification for my actions.


    My Precognitive Dream isntplete. I cant see everything. But I know its habits, at least.


    That implied that I hadnt been able to foresee the Japanese yers death.


    The Lady of the Scales should be convinced with this.


    It was fine as long as she wasnt disappointed and was just silent. The Lady of the Scales had to know that my actions were the best I could have done in that situation. She had to know that it was better for one person to die rather than two.


    Huh? Hyungnim! I see bubbles.


    Take a few steps back.


    A monster with a bloodied snout came out of the water. Its name was, as expected, Swamp Alligator.Swamp Alligator LVL 18


    Level 18. Onnd, this thing was simply a level 18 prey. As if it couldnt be bothered with the likes of us, the beast heaved itself further ontond before curling up and falling asleep.


    Yoohyun raised his fists. I will go beat it to death.


    His fists glowed with a faint blue light. He was a yer who had just reached his early level 20s, but


    He can already put mana in his fists?


    The Fist King was indeed the Fist King. Most yers would have to get through the beginner period in order to replicate the feat.


    Yeonseo stopped him. No. Ill kill it.


    My Eye of Perception captured Yeonseos state.State: Rage / Cool-headed / Rational


    She was definitely enraged, but cool-headed at the same time. Basically, she was in a state of cold rage. I could see that her eyes were filled with intense murderous intent.


    Shes already grown one stage higher.


    Intense murderous intent billowed out from her. Once she surpassed this stage, she would learn how to hide her bloodlust, but she wasnt there yet. In any case, she had shed her civilian shell much more than before. Her near-death experience had pushed her growth.


    Yeonseo. You do it. The weak points of most animal-type monsters are their heads.


    For most of them, the middle of the forehead was one of their vulnerable spots.


    Got it.


    With her sword drawn, Yeonseos very aura was like a well-honed de. She gave off the feeling of a sword. I knew this state very well. She had already reached the so-called one with the sword realm.


    Its said to be the basic quality of Rankers who use the sword.


    It might even be that she had grown even faster than in the past. Yeonseoposed her breathing. In just one strike. Quickly. Her movements were fast and precise, aiming unerringly for the middle of the forehead, exactly one point. She quickly and powerfully pierced that spot.[Swamp Alligator has been killed.]


    On top of EXP and Coins, an item dropped. Yeonseo picked it up and showed it to me.


    [Swamp Alligator w  Quest Item]


    The w of a Swamp Alligator. Present it to an Intermediate Administrator to receive a quest.


    I think it would be best if you gave this to Senia, said Yeonseo, offering me the w.


    I didnt refuse. The rule was that the person who acquired the item, Yeonseo, should personally go and receive the quest. It was a fixed fact that the quest recipient would get the lions share of the rewards. Yeonseo probably knew that as well as I did. But even so, she conceded the right to me, and I epted it. I wasnt running a charity here.


    Senia. Here. Quest item.


    Senia issued me a quest.[You have received the Swamp Alligator w Acquisition quest.]


    The quest wasnt all thatplicated. We needed to acquire 5 Swamp Alligator ws. The current progress was [1/5].


    Weve already got one.


    We only needed to get four more.


    Oppa, Sunhwa said. Can we really get five of these? I cant figure out how to hunt them.


    In all actuality, we had no way to hunt Swamp Alligators if they didnte out of the bog. In the end, we had to drag them ontond somehow. Yeonseo also looked deeply troubled by the conundrum.


    Without a sacrifice we cant drag them out.


    The monsters only came ontond to nap when their bellies were full.


    Can we really clear this quest?


    We had two quests. The first was Turtle Nest, and the second was Swamp Alligator w Acquisition.


    If we cleared the second, the first would be almost automatically cleared.


    We can do it, I said.


    How?


    The emotion I could feel from Yeonseo via Eye of Perception was fear. It was fear towards me. I knew where that fear came from. She was likely scared that I might throw the others as sacrifices to catch the alligators.


    I chuckled. Did she see me as some kind of monster?


    Like this.[The Nameless Observer and four other Guardians cannot wait to hear your response.]


    I decided to show them the method.

 Chapter 39: Random Coin Box

    Chapter 39: Random Coin Box


    Like this.


    I pulled out the Beginner Longspear Id purchased from the Item Shop, as well as another item.


    [ck Yaks Lean Meat]


    Very juicy meat.


    A food ingredient that can make the eater extremely full even with a very small amount.


    It was the ck Yaks Lean Meat Id acquired in Seoul Station Dungeon, where Id met Seo Joohwan. I never knew I would end up using this item I had stored in my Inventory here.


    I <i>was </i>nning on using it at some point.


    But I didnt think that time woulde so soon. The ck Yaks Lean Meat was a big chunk of meat. I skewered two chunks of it at the end of the spear.


    Starting now, well look for bogs.


    The monsters lived in bogs. If we found them onnd, we could hunt them right away, and if they were submerged, we just had to drag them out.


    Ah. So well be luring them out with this.


    I nodded. Alligator fishing. Your first time, right?


    Of course, it was a first for me, too.


    [The Nameless Observer is observing you.]


    [The Whispering Devil is amused by your petty tricks.]


    The other Guardians didnt send notices. It seemed they intended on watching me a little longer.


    After some time, we cleared the reed thicket and discovered arge stretch of bog almostpletely made up of muddy water. It was almost closer to being a pond.


    I submerged the spear with the ck Yaks Lean Meat in the water and swished it around. There was no need for any borate fishing technique or anything like that.


    Have a bite.


    If there was an alligator in this water, it would probably eat the meat. As long as it ate the meat, it woulde ontond due to the special trait of the ck Yaks Lean Meat.A food ingredient that can make the eater extremely full even with a very small amount.


    When will youe out.


    Can you really catch an alligator like this? asked Yeonseo.


    It did look pdash in my eyes, too. The Beginner Longspear from the Item Shop could only be so good, and Id just pped a few pieces of ck Yaks Lean Meat on there. Who would believe that you could catch an alligator with just this?


    As long as theres one in here. Dont let your guard down. Theres no knowing when itll jump out and bite our ankles.


    On the very off chance that happened


    Cut off your ankle. Thats the only way to survive.


    I focused my attention on the water, watching the bog that was somewhere between a swamp and a muddy pond.


    Theres one in here.


    I could feel it. I couldnt see it with my eyes, but there was definitely one in there. Through Eye of Perceptions faithful information ry, I felt the energy of the alligator wed seen earlier.


    Come.


    I felt iting closer and closer, and I readied myself, not lowering my guard.


    So it doesnt bite me.


    I swished the longspear, standing as far away as possible from the bog so that the alligator wouldnt bite me instead of the meat.


    Bite.


    It came closer. The speed at which it traveled up the water was greater than I imagined. That was its special trait. I felt a slight vibration at the tip of the spear. The alligator was apparently giving it a taste.


    Bite.


    And then, there was a ssh of water. Like what had happened to the Japanese yer, the alligator surged out of the water before returning to the depths.


    It ate it!


    The alligator ate the ck Yaks Lean Meat.


    Now, we just have to wait.


    It was just two chunks, but the alligator would probably feel more full than if it had eaten a human. It might taste like shit, but the ck Yaks Lean Meat was a wildly popr dieting food.


    Sure enough, the full alligator crawled ontond to take a nap, and I was able to kill it without a hitch.


    [Swamp Alligator has been killed.]


    [Swamp Alligator w 2/5]


    Yeonseo blinked at me. This is the first time Ive seen a monster get caught like this. How in the world did youe up with this?


    Just randomly.


    I suddenly had a certain thought. If I hadnt known this method, what would it have been like?


    This method was something everyone in the future knew about. But what if I werent a regressor and were in the same position as Shin Yeonseo? And if I could use the Item Shop and already had the ck Yaks Lean Meat with me?


    I would have probably figured out that these monsters came up for naps when that yer died.


    Even if I hadnt known the strategy from the future, I might have still been able toe up with this method. Even without the strategy, I got the sense that I would have been able to figure it out anyway.


    This gate is actually one I have no information about.


    It was still just a beginner gate, but technically speaking, I was also just a beginner level yer, wasnt I?


    Its easier than I thought.


    Even though I was challenging this gate without the strategy, I was clearing it extremely smoothly.


    [Swamp Alligator has been killed.]


    [Swamp Alligator w 3/5]


    [Swamp Alligator w 4/5]


    [Swamp Alligator w 5/5]


    In the end, I gathered all five Swamp Alligator ws and gave them to Senia, who took them and stood in speechless silence for a while.


    What? Is there a mistake somewhere?


    No, but


    Then?


    Its nothing.


    In any case, the quest was cleared.


    [The Swamp Alligator w Acquisition quest has been cleared.]


    [Receiving quest rewards.]


    Since the quest was issued by an Intermediate Administrator, I also received the rewards for clearing it from Senia.


    This is the quest clear reward.


    It was an item.


    [Map of the Turtle Nest]


    A map of the Turtle Nest. It marks the primary features of the Turtle Nest.


    I got a map item. Seeing as how the map was given out so easily, this was indeed a low-level period gate.


    A map, huh?


    With this map, you could say this raid was pretty much over. Having the map was no different from starting a raid knowing almost everything about the gate.


    Lets take a look.


    I looked over the map.


    The habitat of the Swamp Alligators is marked This must be the actual turtle nest.


    I noticed a certain spot. There was a high chance the Clear Crystal would be there. My shoulders felt quite a bit lighter.


    Lets go.


    * * *


    Senia stared at Hyukjins back as he walked in the front. He looked considerably at ease from the back, like he had be far more rxed after getting the map.


    Do you know just what you have done?


    The Guardians were going wild right now.


    [The Wanderer of the Milky Way reveals their True Name and joins the chat.]


    [The Eye of the Abyss reveals their True Name and joins the chat.]


    <i>Two </i>Guardians revealed their names. The act of doing so meant they would take action in earnest. It was known that it took a staggering fee of 1,000,000,000 Coins for a Guardian to reveal their True Name. As such, Guardians who paid the fee to do so were, at the very least, not insignificant rabble.


    Of course, there were still way more Guardians who didnt reveal their True Names. Like always, their responses dominated the chat.


    What is he?


    Wasnt this gate originally supposed to break? Itll get cleared if this goes on!


    Isnt the first scenario of the Japanese server bound to get messed up at this rate?


    Shouldnt the difficulty be higher for a yer of that level?


    The clear was nearly set in stone. Japans first scenario quest was botched. Of course, Kim Hyukjin didnt use any illegal methods in the process. Rather, he only used the best methods avable to him.


    Two Guardians revealed their names, and the Japanese servers scenario has gone off the rails at the first station.


    She peered again at Kim Hyukjins back some distance away.


    Just what are you?


    She had scanned himst time. He didnt have anything like a True Name. He was really a human. He imed to have the Precognitive Dream ability, but Senia didnt think he could tow along the situation like this with that alone.


    It might be that the difficulty has to be readjusted.


    Because of just one person. No, because of the party that person led, the difficulty of the whole world might have to be readjusted.


    She decided to watch him a little longer.


    * * *


    I discovered a cave. It wasnt hard, since I had a map.


    Theyre not here.


    I couldnt see any Gold Turtles. It wasnt hard to figure out why.


    The Japanese man from earlier must have found this ce first.


    That was likely why he had so many Gold Turtles with him. He was unable to hunt the Gold Turtles hiding inside their shells, so he just carried them along ins.


    There are a total of three caves.


    Webed through this one, but there was no Clear Crystal. Since the Japanese yer had died, if the Clear Crystal had been in his Inventory, it would have respawned here. That meant it wasnt here.


    Well go through all three of them.


    The next cave was inhabited by Gold Turtles. There was a fairlyrge pond right next to the cave.


    Yoohyun, Yeonseo. You two make sure they dont escape into the water.


    Each and every one of them dropped arge number of Coins. That number was nothing to scoff at. If you were lucky, they could even drop Random Coin Boxes.


    We cant get them if they go into the water.


    Got it, hyungnim! Leave it to me!


    Okay, Ill earn my keep.


    The two of them blocked off the path from the cave to the pool. Upon spotting us, the Gold Turtles instantly shrank into their shells, which made them super easy to hunt. To be exact, we stuffed them all intos, like the Japanese yer had done.


    Were not going to kill them?


    Well do it all in one goter.


    Why not do it right now?


    Cause when all is said and done, AOE huntings the best, you know?


    Gathering them in one ce and killing them was the most efficient. Yoohyun expressed his admiration with light ps of his hands.


    I see. This is also a kind of AOE farm! Didnt think wed AOE farm like this.


    The Clear Crystal wasnt in the second cave, either. We arrived at the third cave, which was inhabited by quite a lot of Gold Turtles, too. We were able to catch them without any difficulty.


    Since the grade of the gate wasnt that high, the Clear Crystal was also not very difficult to find.


    Oppa. The Crystal is over there.


    Once we destroyed that sparkling purple crystal, this gate would be cleared.


    What should we do? Destroy it?


    No.


    First, we would finish hunting. I poured out all the Gold Turtles hiding in their shells in one spot. I didnt count their exact numbers, but there were around sixty of them.


    We should be getting a notice around now.


    This strategy would be very famouster on. When hunting Gold Turtles, gather as many of them as you can in one spot. It was so effective that there were even Gold Turtle farms and ughterhouses.


    Youre supposed to have a minimum of forty, right? I think I remember the name being Gold Turtles Collective Spirit.[You have fulfilled the Hidden Piece Gold Turtles Collective Spirit.]


    Though it was technically a hidden piece, this was a strategy everyone and their mother knew about in the future.


    [For 30 minutes, the drop rate of Random Coin Boxes is increased by 10%.]


    [For 30 minutes, the Coin acquisition is increased by 10%.]


    The least amount of effort for the greatest efficiency. This strategy aplished that perfectly. No matter how you sliced it, this raid could be considered a huge sess. It was indeed an impressively big sess. The Coins I acquired here would serve as paint that would allow me to draw the picture I wanted far more vividly and surely than before.


    Well then, shall we get cracking?


    But just then, I saw a yellow !!! pop up.


    An important notice indication suddenly popped up?

 Chapter 40: Random Coin Box (2)

    Chapter 40: Random Coin Box (2)[You have fulfilled the Hidden Piece Gold Turtles Collective Spirit.]


    That was a hidden piece just about everyone with knowledge from the future would know of. But the next notice wasnt.[You are the first to have discovered the Hidden Piece Gold Turtles Collective Spirit.]


    The first?


    I was the first to discover this hidden piece. Come to think of it, the first discoverer was never revealed. As time went on, someone discovered the hidden piece, and it was used like a kind of public resource.


    I saw a yellow !!!.


    An exmation point notice


    It was an important notice that only I could see. I checked its contents.


    [There is a title that can be connected to the first discovery of the Hidden Piece Gold Turtles Collective Spirit.]


    [The title that can be connected is First Pioneer.][Will you connect the title First Pioneer with the Hidden Piece Gold Turtles Collective Spirit and trigger the linked scenario?]


    I now knew why the yer who satisfied the first discovery of Gold Turtles Collective Spirit never appeared before.


    You have to satisfy both conditions together.


    The first discovery, as well as First Pioneer. This situation would only be triggered if you did and had both.[If you wish to see a detailed exnation, please trigger the detailed exnationmand.]


    I was given an unexpected scenario. Maybe because we were in the beginner period, the System was thankfully very helpful.


    Detailed exnation.


    If a yer with the [First Pioneer] title is the first to discover a [Hidden Piece], it is possible to trigger a linked scenario. Linked scenarios can be triggered three times.<ul><li>Linked Scenarios Triggered: [0/3]</li><li>Linked Hidden Piece: [Gold Turtles Collective Spirit]</li><li>Scenario: Hidden Boss Monster [Poison Gold Turtle] Spawn</li></ul>


    I focused on the hidden boss monster, the Poison Gold Turtle.


    That was a monster with a level in the early to mid-30s.


    If it gets a boss monster stat buff on top of that Itll have the strength of at least a level 35 monster.


    In addition, the poison attribute Poison Gold Turtle was very tricky to hunt due to its very high physical defense and propensity to spew poison at attackers. Only a yer with high poison resistance could think of hunting one.


    I


    I had to make a decision.


    will give up on this one.


    I didnt think about it for too long. Commencing a linked scenario using the First Pioneer title was limited to three times.


    The risk is bigger than the benefit.


    It was true that I had Mandras Gloves, an item with a poison resistance that was nearly impossible to get in the beginner levels, but there was no real need to run the risk. I might have taken the gamble if thered been a lot to gain from killing the Poison Gold Turtle, but that wasnt the case.[Will you connect the title First Pioneer with the Hidden Piece Gold Turtles Collective Spirit andmence with the linked scenario?]


    NO.


    The linked scenariomencement was canceled.


    Whatcha doing? asked Yeonseo, puzzled by my pause.


    I was just checking something real quick.


    I heard a notice, too. The drop rate of something and the Coin acquisition is greatly increased, or something like that. Yeonseo took the initiative to draw the line. Im satisfied enough with the good experience I gained from this raid. I wont be greedy for the Coins. You guys divvy it up amongst yourselves. I learnt a lot from you today, and owe you my life again


    Like usual, the swordless Yeonseo grinned cutely.


    And I guess this counts as a date.


    I had no idea how this was anything close to a date, but in any case, Yeonseo conceded everything to the rest of us.


    Hyungnim. I came here to help you anyway. I never wanted a reward.


    I was silent for a moment.


    Whats important is how many Coinse out of the Random Coin Boxes, if we get any.


    This hadnt been in my original n, but we had managed toe this far. Thanks to this sessful raid, I would be much closer to getting that thing Id been thinking about. As long as Lady Luck gave me her blessing, I could even get that thing right away.


    Ill also do as you tell me to, oppa, said Sunhwa.


    It looked like Sunhwa, like the other two, didnt want much. She hadplete trust and faith in me, and simply enjoyed doing something with me. She wasnt greedy for the Coins.


    For now lets get some Coins.


    I didnt want topletely monopolize the rewards. I wasnt the only one who had worked hard. All of us had gotten this far together.


    Of course, I do have priority.


    Since the MVP of this y was me, I definitely had priority. However, there was no need to be greedier than necessary right now. As long as these turtles yielded an amount that could satisfy me, I would give the others the rest.


    These guys also need to get rewards to get motivation.


    I would probably keep this party together for the time being. Somehow, I became the party leader. From the viewpoint of a party leader, party members being motivated was incredibly important.


    Its only natural youd have no enthusiasm if you worked to the bone and even worked overtime only to get miniscule rewards.


    Stick and carrot. A leader had to manage the party by utilizing both elements in appropriate measure.


    Well be getting Coins starting now.


    I made the baseline crystal clear, a concrete and clearly tangible base.


    Ill take up to 70k Coins.


    Their eyes grew wide. That was only natural. <i>70k Coins.</i> When I got big sponsorships from Guardians before, that only added up to 8k Coins. Even killing the level 25 lycanthrope yielded a scant 30 Coins. So for us, 70k Coins was a fortune we could hardly even fathom.


    Yeonseoughed in amusement. There was no malice in herugh. Her eyes curved into crescents.


    Thanks. Ill happily ept.


    Herugh seemed to say 70k Coins, theres no way therell be more than that, anyway. I still couldnt understand why I could feel strong goodwill from her. I had no idea what part of my words would make her feel goodwill towards me.


    In any case, I decided to start the Gold Turtle hunt.


    Anyone happen to have a big, blunt weapon?


    Hm? Hyungnim, Ive got a [Large Hammer]!


    Give it to me for a moment.


    The Large Hammer was about the same size as a warhammer. It was indeed a weapon for beginners, but no one used it. It was too heavy, making it nearly impossible to hit monsters.


    It was also difficult to swing it properly. But if the opponent was as still as a fencepost, like these turtles, it wasnt a difficult weapon to use.


    Alrighty, lets give it a swing, shall we?


    I swung down the Large Hammer.


    * * *


    <i>Whumpf!</i>


    The sound the weapon made as it traveled through the air was as hefty as its size. Hyukjin heard notices.


    [Gold Turtle has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [241 Coins acquired.]


    For a mid-10 level monster, it dropped a huge amount of coins.


    <i>Whumpf!</i>


    The hammernded squarely in the middle of the shell.


    <i>Crack!</i>


    A loud impact struck the eardrums, like steel shing against steel.


    <i>Crack! Crack! Crack!</i>


    Hyukjin continued to swing the Large Hammer.


    [301 Coins acquired.]


    [99 Coins acquired.]


    Though all the turtles were around the same level, they dropped a varying amount of Coins.


    [119 Coins acquired.]


    [167 Coins acquired.]


    [222 Coins acquired.]


    Yeonseo gulped her drool. My god


    Yoohyun simply stared at Hyukjin, his calf-like eyes dazedly blinking. He heard Yeonseo whisper something next to him.


    What is he?


    Yoohyun didnt know, either.


    Could it be that hes some I dunno, higher-level ss thats specialized in handling blunt weapons?


    Yoohyun had never thought there would be anyone who could use the Large Hammer so well. When it came to strength, Yoohyun thought he wouldnt lose to anyone, but somehow, he got the feeling he would lose to Hyukjin in an armwrestling match. How in the world could such a slender body produce such strength? The realization that he had be a yer swept through Yoohyun again.


    I think hyungnims Strength stat is super high.


    But hes also faster than me?


    Then his Agility must also be higher than yours.


    How can his Strength be higher than yours and his Agility higher than mine? Even considering hes a higher level than us


    Yoohyun wasnt sure.


    Sunhwa, who had been listening quietly from the side, gave them the correct answer.


    Unnie, mister. Dont judge a book by its cover.


    TN: Unnie is a familiar term for sister, used by a girl to refer to an older girl.


    In the eyes of the natural-born tank Kim Sunhwa, Hyukjins movements didnt boil down to just ordinary swinging.


    If stats could represent technique, they wouldve probably been extremely high.


    Yeonseo agreed. Youre right. Hes not just wildly swinging the hammer. Hes precisely aiming for the center of the shell and making the impact register fully right now.


    Even for the great Kim Hyukjin, he wasnt able to kill the Gold Turtles in one hit. He had to attack each one at least four times.


    Hes hitting almost the exact same ce at set intervals.


    Set intervals, sending set vibrations through the shell. Hyukjin was stacking them up, amplifying each hit. Before she knew it, Yeonseo was thoroughly observing Hyukjin with the same eyes she had when she was holding her sword.


    She knew what his movements were.


    Resonance.


    Resonance, the phenomenon of sharply increased amplitude on a vibrating object. It was an amplification effect that urred when the frequency of a periodically applied force became close to the intrinsic frequency of the object.


    Yeonseo continued speaking as if bewitched. Hes creating massive shock waves inside the shell in order to maximize the destructive power.


    It didnt look like he was using a skill, nor did it look like this was a trained movement.


    Hes doing that by instinct alone?


    * * *


    While I was engrossed in hunting the Gold Turtles, I discovered something.


    Finally.[Random Coin Box acquired.]


    Please, let it be seven of them.


    There was a higher chance to get them. As long as seven of them dropped, it was enough. As long as I gathered seven, I could trigger a new hidden piece.


    [Random Coin Box acquired.]


    [Random Coin Box acquired.]


    Around two hours passed, after which I had a total of six boxes. There was only one Gold Turtle left. Just one more box, and I would have seven.


    Please![Gold Turtle has been killed.]


    [Random Coin Box acquired.]


    Seven! Got em.


    My whole body was drenched in sweat.


    Finally


    I was satisfied. Seven Random Coin Boxes had dropped. That meant I had reached my first goal. I paused to take some deep breaths to regte my ragged breathing and also used a Constitution potion. I took one of the towels in my Inventory out to wipe my sweat. It was almost like Id taken a shower in sweat.


    Is your body made of steel or something? Yeonseo asked. How can you swing that big thing for <i>two hours </i>straight?


    I drank a lot of Constitution potions.


    Even so. Are you really human, dude?


    It wasnt that I wasnt exhausted. After swinging a hammer for two hours, my waist and shoulders felt like they were about to break.


    But its alright.


    This feeling of having worked hard, of drawing out my future and reaping rewards in the process, it wasnt a bad feeling. Every muscle on my body was screaming in exhaustion, but that fatigue wasnt unpleasant to me.


    Seven Random Coin Boxes.


    On top of that, I had acquired a whopping 20k Coins already. I was already  of the way to my goal of 70k Coins. Things were going far more smoothly than expected.


    Hyungnim. Should we destroy the Crystal and leave the gate?


    No.


    There was still something to do. We had to crack open the Random Boxes. I clicked the Random Coin Boxes in my Inventory.


    Will 50k Coinse out of the Random Coin Boxes?


    I didnt know. I had to crack them open to find out. They were random, after all.


    The first Random Coin Box


    [Open the Random Coin Box?]


    [6,400 Coins acquired.]


    The second


    [Open the Random Coin Box?]


    [1,400 Coins acquired.]


    1,400 Coins. With two boxes, I got 7,800 Coins. That added up roughly to 30k Coins, leaving 40k Coins to the goal.


    Five Random Coin Boxes left.


    Would 40k Coinse out of the boxes? It would have to be an average of 8,000 Coins per box. I had the feeling fewer Coins wereing out than expected.


    Is my luck kinda bad?


    The third Random Coin Box[70 Coins acquired.]


    I scowled. 70 Coins? It was the worst of the worst. With this, I became a little more certain of it. I didnt have very good luck.


    The fourth Random Coin Box was decent, at least.[9,000 Coins acquired.]


    In a stroke of shit luck, the fifth was [700 Coins acquired], and the sixth was [2,000 Coins acquired].


    As a result, I had about 40k Coins. Unfortunately, it didnt look like Id be able to scrape together a surplus I could share with the others. I doubted that 30k Coins woulde out of one box.


    But its okay.


    This was the seventh. When I opened the seventh Random Coin Box, a new notice would definitely be announced, as long as it was the same as the past I remembered.[Open the Random Coin Box?]


    Please.


    Please be the same as the past, please.


    I finally heard the notice I had been waiting for.

 Chapter 41: Speak, Pygmy

    Chapter 41: Speak, Pygmy


    [You have opened seven Random Coin Boxes in session.]


    The seventh Random Coin Box was triggered.[You have fulfilled the Hidden Piece Challenge to the Jackpot.]


    To my relief, it was as I remembered.


    I guess I really did return to the past.


    The realization washed over me anew. It was currently the early stage of the Tutorial, so ten years before the year I had lived in. Before my regression, hidden pieces were thought of asmonce.


    Things considered so very natural ten yearster were so very new right now, ten years prior. This Challenge to the Jackpot was something everyone in the future knew about.


    The notices continued.


    [You are the first to have fulfilled the conditions for Challenge to the Jackpot.]


    [There is a title that can be connected to the first discovery of the Hidden Piece Challenge to the Jackpot.]


    When I discovered Gold Turtles Collective Spirit earlier, I didnt connect my title because there hadnt been much merit in doing so.


    But this time?[The title that can be connected is First Pioneer.]


    I pulled up the detailed exnation.


    If a yer with the [First Pioneer] title is the first to discover a [Hidden Piece], it is possible to trigger a linked scenario. Linked scenarios can be triggered three times.<ul><li><ul><li>Linked Scenarios Triggered: [0/3]</li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li>Linked Hidden Piece: [Challenge to the Jackpot]</li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li>Scenario: Random Coin Box transformed into Double Coin Box</li></ul></li></ul>


    Double Coin Box?


    A Double Coin Box was a box that would give me the amount of Coins I had right now, doubling my total Coins.


    I have around 40k Coins.


    So if I opened the Double Coin Box, I would be able to acquire 40k Coins.


    That would make 80k Coins.


    My goal was 70k Coins, so that would leave a whole extra 10k. While I was standing there, thinking, the Guardians sent notices, apparently feeling antsy.


    [The Nameless Observer observes your actions.]


    [The Whispering Devil is curious.]


    [The Lady of the Scales focuses on you.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain feels impatient.]


    [The Courageous Lion King strikes his chest.]


    Of course they were curious as to why I didnt crack open the seventh box right away.


    Senia, share the reward I got.


    I publicized my reward to the Guardians. Should I change the Random Coin Box to a Double Coin Box, or not? I was showing my actions to the Guardians right now, showing them exactly what I would do.


    Guys. Im in a ce right now where I can get a Double Coin Box.


    Blinking, Yeonseo asked, Whats that? Gonna give it to me?


    She almost looked like a squirrel wanting an acorn. I knew she was just joking, so I ignored the second part of her words with ease.


    Its a box that doubles the number of Coins you have when you get it.


    Aha. Then cant you wait to get it when you have more Coins? It would be more profitable to get that when you have more money, right?


    As expected of Yeonseoshe hit the bullseye. I was thankful she was so smart. Lady of the Scales, are you listening?


    Yeah. Thats true in theory. But it doesnt work with Coins gained through trades.


    In other words, there was no point in getting all their Coins and then obtaining the Double Coin Box.


    And also, this is a ce where all of us worked hard together and cleared together, right? Were all party members whove fought with our backs to each other.


    H-Huh? I guess?


    Yeonseo nced at me doubtfully.State: Uneasy / Doubt / Anxious


    If I had to hazard a guess, she was probably thinking along the lines of Whats up with him all of a sudden? Did he eat something strange? I fully understood her feelings. Even I felt awkward saying such words.


    Its my belief that there should be a fair distribution of rewards here. Thats whats right.


    Unable to adapt to my sudden change of tune, Yeonseo simply stared, almost like a fearful squirrel.


    So Im gonna get the box now. If I do that, I can give you guys at least 3,000 Coins each.


    I would easily reach my goal of 70k Coins, leaving me a surplus of about 3,000 Coins to give to the others.


    Its a lot of money for beginners.


    It was an amount that could buy fairly good items in the beginner grade, as well as potions, which could be called a yers second life. Considering that ordinary Guardians gave sponsorships of 10 Coins or 300 Coins at most, 3,000 was no paltry sum.


    [The Lady of the Scales is impressed by your character.]


    [The Whispering Devil detests you.]


    Senia appeared. First Pioneer can only be connected to hidden pieces three times. Will you still use it?


    Yeah. Thats whats fair.


    Actually, I wasnt doing this to be fair, but because I needed 70k Coins right now.


    What I need right now is 70k Coins.


    These 70k Coins would take me to a far higher ce, at least ording to the strategy in my memory.


    Its originally a strategy that can only be done by silver spoons.


    Who in their right mind would invest 70k Coins in a beginner? This strategy was only possible for truly high-level yers or children from chaebol families. It wasnt something ordinary working ss people could even dream of.


    Plus therell be the gate clear reward, as well as the quest clear reward.


    And not only that, but as long as things went well, there was a possibility that the Lady of the Scales would give me a generous sponsorship. The picture was drawn in its entirety.[Will you connect the title effect of First Pioneer with the Hidden Piece Challenge to the Jackpot?]


    This time, I chose YES.


    [The connection between the title effect and Hidden Piece has beenpleted.]


    [Random Coin Box has been switched to Double Coin Box.]


    I immediately opened the Double Coin Box.


    [Current held Coins: 43,219 Coins]


    [You have opened a Double Coin Box.]


    [43,219 Coins acquired.]


    My Coins were instantly doubled, meaning I currently had 86,438 Coins.


    Ill distribute 3,000 Coins each to you guys. Thanks for your hard work.


    When I did so, I got a notice.[The Lady of the Scales has sent you a 500 Coin sponsorship.]


    It was a little feeble. Compared to the Lady of the Scales fame, it was indeed too feeble a reward, though it was better than nothing.


    Hyungnim. Should I destroy this thing now?


    Yoohyun had a purple crystal, the Clear Crystal of the Turtle Nest, in his meaty, pot lid-sized hand. I nodded. He let go of the crystal, and it floated in midair.


    Uryah!


    He punched out, and after a few attacks, the crystal shattered.


    [The Gate Turtle Nest has been cleared.]


    [Distributing Gate Clear rewards.]


    [All yers are given +500 Coins.]


    [All yers are given Beginner Tower Return Scroll.]


    I was surprised to see a Beginner Tower Return Scroll in the rewards. It was an item that was usually given after clearing a gate.


    Were gonna use the Beginner Tower Return Scroll. Use it right away without saving it.


    This wasnt a very high difficulty gate. We only took the roundabout way of getting Coins, but we could have cleared it as soon as we found the crystal. The gates overall difficulty was low, so the rewards were also not very high. In any case, I never expected much from the gate clear rewards to begin with.


    If theres a Beginner Tower Return Scroll, that means


    It essentially meant that the Beginner Tower had formed while we were in the Japanese gate.


    The notices continued.[The quest Turtle Nest has been cleared.]


    That was the quest Senia had issued us. She approached us, then spoke while looking at me. I will now deliver the rewards for clearing the Turtle Nest.


    I didnt expect much.


    What are you waiting for? We have to use the Return Scroll before we get kicked out, so spit it out.


    When we left, we would probably be swarmed by police or reporters. I wanted to avoid such a tiresome thing, if possible. It would be much more convenient to go straight to the Beginner Tower.[Distributing rewards for clearing the quest Turtle Nest.]


    Senia handed me a pouch.


    Hm?


    By all appearances, it looked like a pouch filled with Coins.


    Whats this?


    Please take a look.


    I took the pouch from her and got Coins.[7,000 Coins acquired.]


    The heck was this?


    A moment of silence fell between Senia and me. The gate clear reward was a paltry 500 Coins, but the reward for a quest issued by an Intermediate Administrator was 7,000 Coins?


    This isnt


    I had a hunch. About the Turtle Nest clear quest.


    A quest issued by an Intermediate Administrator.


    It was obvious by looking at the attitude of this easily handled newbie Streamer. This was a quest she had been asked to issue as a proxy, and simrly, these rewards were given by someone else. And that someone did not reveal their identity.


    Who is it, then?


    I had no idea. Was there ever a Guardian who would give 7,000 Coins for a beginner gate?


    Could it be the Demon Kings Guardian?


    Only someone of his level would do such a thing.


    Or theyd have to be someone on the level of the Herdsman of Las Vegas.


    But the Herdsman of Las Vegas had to be watching the US server right now, so it couldnt be him.


    Who could it be?


    I could only guess. If it was the Lady of the Scales, she would have personally issued the quest with her name on it. Something was strange about this. I was happy, but it was strange. There was no further information I could glean about the current situation.


    Who could it have possibly been?


    I pulled my thoughts away from the big question with effort. All of you, use the return scroll we got as a reward. At least if you want to avoid something troublesome.


    * * *[You have used a Beginner Tower Return Scroll.]


    I was struck with a moment of dizziness, and it felt like I was getting sucked somewhere. When I recovered my senses, I was suddenly standing somewherepletely different.[You have arrived at the Korean Beginner Tower  D-Tower.]


    I looked around.


    So the Beginner Tower really opened.


    I could see people with their names written above their heads. They werent actual people, but NPCs. They only existed in special ces and were like artificial intelligences. You could think of them as NPCs in a game.


    Aria of the Potion Store. Charles of the Weapon Store.


    They were all familiar names. The NPCs managed stores that sold better quality items than the weapons you could get from the System shop. If you had enough intimacy with the NPCs, they sometimes sold hidden items as well.


    Weve really arrived.


    D-Tower. This ce, the former Tutorial Dungeon, was now the Beginner Tower. Looking around with wide eyes, Yeonseo grabbed my sleeve and shook it.


    My god, is this real life? Werent we in Japan just now?


    Isnt this D-Tower? It is, right? Im not dreaming, right?


    The 1st floor of D-Tower had changed. The original shops had all disappeared, as well as the ATM Sunhwa and I had used to block the Goblin Soldiers spear. The whole floor had beenpletely transformed.


    Yeonseos mouth was wide open.


    Holy cow


    This was a world where monsters appeared, over 140,000 people died, and gates and dungeons existed, so what was all this fuss about return scrolls about?


    Amazing. So frickin amazing. Amaaaaaazing!


    Her excited appearance was a little cute, but it was a bit irritating that she was grabbing my sleeve while jumping around. I shook her off.


    Thats rude, treating me like Im dust or something, Yeonseo muttered, pursing her lips.


    Thanks for your hard work. You guys go do what you have to do now. In a few days, Ill contact you again, so Yoohyun and Yeonseo, you go clear just 25 rounds of the Seoul Station Dungeon.


    Understood, hyungnim!


    Got it. We just have to do 25 rounds, right?


    In the meantime, yers who had recognized Yoohyun started toe this way.


    Huh? Isnt that So Yoohyun?


    Really? The Tutorial Ender?


    Everyones interest in our sudden appearance quickly focused on Yoohyun. I was d about ithe could take all the interest.


    I was pretty impatient right now. The Beginner Tower had formed, and I had my advancement and Guardian Selection in front of me.


    Before that


    I walked forward to carry out the strategy that only chaebols could do.


    Oppa. What should I do?


    You go home and rest. Ill be back at night.


    What are you gonna do, oppa? Cant Ie with you? Im good at tanking, right?


    Just then, I recalled her summary.Summary: Weak Brocon


    The bro in there couldnt be referring to me, right?


    Go home.


    Okay.


    Ill get ice cream on the way home.


    Really?


    Sunhwa smiled brightly, like she had never been pouting. The happiness I could feel from her through Eye of Perception told me she really loved ice cream.


    After a few steps, I saw the esctor that, unlike before, now had zero cooldown and required a usage fee.


    [Esctor Going to the 2nd Floor]


    The esctor going to the 2nd floor of the Beginner Tower. 15 people can teleport at the same time. Currently, there is nothing on the 2nd floor.


    Cooldown:


    Required Coins: 100 Coins


    I got on the esctor. Senia, who hadnt closed her channel yet, followed me. She probably thought my actions right now were a waste of money.


    You think my actions are a waste of money, right?


    Yes. There is currently nothing on the 2nd floor.


    <i>Your attention, please, Guardians. Allow me to show you what Im going to do here.</i>

 Chapter 42: Speak, Pygmy (2)

    Chapter 42: Speak, Pygmy (2)


    I knew as well as anyone that there was nothing on the 2nd floor.


    But the fact the 2nd floor has been opened


    Meant that someone had opened the 2nd floor. I knew who the first person to open the 2nd floor was. The Demon Kingthe yer Seo Joohwan had served, whose identity had still not been discovered after ten years. No one knew if he was even Korean, only that he started ying in Korea andter became the leader of the Demon King Army, aka Nightmare.


    Not much is known about the Demon King.


    It was known that he had the capability to easily face the 8 Heroes all on his own, and he was always involved, in one way or another, in wars, gate breaks, and big incidents likerge-scale massacres.


    One thing that <i>is </i>known is that he was the very first person to open the 2nd floor of the Beginner Tower.


    The bonus he received from doing so was also public knowledge.


    The first three yers to enter are given a bonus.


    It could be that the Demon King was still somewhere on the 2nd floor. When that possibility urred to me, my heart began to thump. What did the current Demon King look like? I already considered Yoohyun and Yeonseo as genius enough, but the suprememander of the Demon King Army far outstripped them. Could it be that he really was on the 2nd floor?


    Could it be that Im stronger than the current Demon King?


    Suddenly, Eye of Perception picked up on something, a feeling different from usual. It felt like something heavy was going over my eyelids.


    [A powerful presence has been detected.]


    [Eye of Perception has been temporarily disabled.]


    My eyes hurt.


    I closed my eyes. Or rather, my eyes closed involuntarily.


    I feel like I saw someone just now.


    What I remembered was only a ck afterimage, the mere feeling that a ck fog appeared before my eyes before disappearing. If not for Eye of Perception being disabled, I would have thought that I had only imagined it. But I could tell.


    I came face to face with someone just now.


    It was just my hunch, but I had the feeling that someone might be the Demon King. I didnt know who the Demon King was, but what I did know was that he definitely existed in this world, somewhere. If that pressure I felt just now really was from the Demon King, then?


    If we faced off, what would happen?


    I didnt know yet. While a thousand thoughts went through my head, the status abnormality faded.[Eye of Perception is no longer disabled.]


    Will I ever end up confronting the Demon King?


    That didnt have to happen. Even if we never met, I could live perfectly well.


    Lets think about itter.


    I decided to focus on what I could do right now.[Esctor Going to the 2nd Floor]


    I went up to the 2nd floor with the esctor.


    * * *


    [You have entered the Beginner Tower 2nd Floor.]


    The 2nd floor of the D-Tower, which was now the Beginner Tower, was once the ce where I fought the magic troll. But now, there was nothing. It was just a dark and empty lot. Even though it wasnt underground, the air was humid and damp. The whole ce gave off the impression of an empty underground parking lot.


    Item Shop.


    [Item Shop  Beginner  Potions & Return Scrolls]<ol><li>Beginner Constitution Potion 300 Coins</li><li>Beginner Mana Potion 300 Coins</li><li>Beginner Cure Potion 400 Coins</li><li>Beginner Safe Zone Return Scroll 3,000 Coins</li><li>Beginner Healing Potion 400 Coins</li></ol>


    Currently, I was on the Potions & Return Scrolls tab. That wasnt important. The important thing was that right now, I was on the 2nd floor of the Beginner Tower.


    I wish to open the Hidden Item Shop.


    The Streamer Senia stared nkly at me. The Hidden Item Shop?


    She was staring at me with no expression, but the tips of her wings were trembling. Though she appeared expressionless on the outside, it seemed she was extremely flustered on the inside. My Eye of Perception couldnt read Senias state yet, but despite that, it was as clear as day to me.


    Looks like youre very taken aback.


    That my low-proficiency Eye of Perception could read her shock indicated the degree of her emotional upheaval, the degree to which her emotions were showing.


    Look carefully through the manual.


    Such cases, where yers shared tips and strategies amongst each other and knew something the Intermediate Administrator in charge of them didnt, happened asionally. I understood. Senia was a beginner. It was because she was a beginner that it was easy for me to manipte her. But as easy to manipte she might be, she also had disadvantages like this.


    Several Guardians seemed to find the time it took for her to read the manual boring.


    [The Nameless Observer is observing.]


    [The Lady of the Scales is waiting.]


    [The Courageous Lion King is impatient.]


    I was idly wondering when that courage-lover would leave this channel when Senia opened her mouth again, five minutester.


    A Hidden Item Shop exists.


    Yes, and it could only be essed here. It required 50k Coins to open, an impossible hurdle for a real beginner. It was out of the question for a beginner to have 50k Coins.


    It requires 50k Coins.


    Those 50k Coins, Ill give them.


    [You have requested the opening of the Hidden Item Shop.]


    [Opening the Hidden Item Shop requires 50k Coins.]


    [Will you open the Hidden Item Shop?]


    [The Hidden Item Shop can be essed for 60 seconds.]


    [All items in the Hidden Item Shop are limited to 1 in stock.]


    Before you could even peruse the items, it required 50k Coins simply to open the shop for a pathetic 60 seconds. As long as you didnt have bricks for brains or had a crazy amount of money rotting in the bank, not going ahead with such a cost was the right call. In addition, there was only one of each item. Even if the item I wanted was there, it was over if someone had already purchased it.


    [Opening the Hidden Item Shop.]


    [The Hidden Item Shop has been opened.]


    In addition to this, the bonus for the first three was applied.


    [You have seeded in being the second to open the Hidden Item Shop.]


    [You are given an opening bonus.]


    [The opening bonus Bargain Sale is taking effect.]


    The Bargain Sale took effect, halving the prices of the items.


    [Hidden Item Shop  Beginner  Assist Scrolls]<ol><li>Low Advancement Assist Scroll 14,000 Coins  7,000 Coins</li><li>Intermediate Advancement Assist Scroll 26,000 Coins  13,000 Coins</li><li>High Advancement Assist Scroll 40,000 Coins  20,000 Coins</li></ol>


    The shop was beginner grade, and within the Assist Scroll tab, there were only three items that could be purchased. This was what I had thought long and hard about.


    High Advancement Assist Scroll.


    [Purchase the High Advancement Assist Scroll?]


    [20,000 Coins will be used.]


    My original n was to have 70,000 Coins. Thanks to reaping an unexpectedlyrge harvest from the Turtle Nest, I still had 13,000 Coins left, even after purchasing the High Advancement Assist Scroll.


    I have more left over than expected.


    I felt like Id profited greatly somehow, seeing as I had 13k Coins left over when I had expected 0.


    There was no time to look through the other tabs. Sixty seconds had passed in a sh.


    [High Advancement Assist Scroll]


    A scroll enchanted with magic that assists in advancement. Has a high chance to increase the grade of the ss the yer advances to.


    Used: 0/1<ul><li>The High Advancement Assist Scroll is an item purchased from the Hidden Item Shop.</li><li>Cannot be traded or transferred.</li></ul>


    After confirming the item, I shared all of the information to my Intermediate Administrator, Senia, telling everyone that I had just purchased a High Advancement Assist Scroll. In other words, I was considering advancement.


    My level is currently 26. As you know, its about time for me to start considering my advancement, right?


    I saidst time that I would advance at level 30.


    Thats why Im trying to y with a slightly more advantageous method.


    There was, of course, a method behind the madness. When I reached level 30, it would be time to choose the Guardian I would contract with. Through this contract, a close rtionship would be established between me and the Guardian, and I would be able to receive a great deal of support from this Guardian.


    Though you said you would be waitingst time What is your reasoning for waiting? That yers advance at level 25 is a universal process. Just what kind of belief is behind your actions?


    I grinned on purpose, knowing that many Guardians had their eyes on me.


    A feeling? Or maybe a dream?


    If yers advanced through their Guardians, they could get a ss of at least rare grade.


    For them, hypotheticals arent important, anyway.


    To the Guardians, things like how I knew all of this, or whether it really was a feeling or a dream, werent very important to them. What was important was how fun and enjoyable a y I could show them could be. <i>That </i>was what mattered to them.


    Thats why


    The Guardians would overlook my current actions. But just then, I heard a notice.


    * * *


    [The Intermediate Administrator Neptunes Bug Investigation Request has been received.]


    In this dark ce where only Senia and I were standing, someone else appeared.


    The Intermediate Administrator Neptune.


    He was a pygmy with skin somewhere between green and emerald. The one-eyed Streamer was So Yoohyuns Intermediate Administrator.


    It really is too strange. Dont you think so too, great Guardians? This yer, somethings fishy about him for sure. Even for a Precognitive Dream user, this is simply too much. Theres a high chance of a System bug or error. Thats why I have submitted an Investigation Request. Oi. Is your name Kim Hyukjin? Staring at me, Neptune continued talking with an overbearing attitude. Come closer.


    A feeling simr to what I felt in front of the esctor earlier washed over me.


    [Eye of Perception is temporarily disabled.]


    [Intermediate Administrator Neptunes coercion is activating.]


    [The Forced Submission power of the Intermediate Administrator Neptune is taking effect.]


    I was forced to walk to Neptune, regardless of my will.


    <i>Thud.</i>


    And then, I knelt. Like the name Forced Submission implied, it was a humiliating power.


    Senia, you dunce. Say something, goddammit.


    Senia wasnt able to say anything to Neptune. As one would expect from a real beginner Streamer, she couldnt handle Neptunes unexpected actions.


    Thats why shell be eliminated.


    She was being suppressed by Neptunes aura. He likely held a far higher rank than her in the Streamer world.


    You wont survive like this, Senia.


    I decided to speak for her.


    Feel free to scan me.


    I didnt do anything that was forbidden by the System. To begin with, there was no way a yer barely in their mid-level 20s could use the bugs that would appear only five years from now. Neptune had to know this fact very well. This was what wasmonly called stirring the pot, or aggroing.


    Probably to promote his channel.


    Since he couldnt independently stream me, he was ndering with me, the center of attention for the Guardians right now, as his target. You could think of it as something like marketing buzz.


    And the current me is an easy opponent.


    I was way weaker than him. That was an undeniable fact.


    But.


    If marketing buzz was what he wanted, and he was trying to use me for his own gain, then he should have looked a little more into the person he was trying to use.


    What is your reasoning for using me of using a bug? How do you n on paying the price for threatening and treating apletely innocent yer like a criminal?


    I might be kneeling under the effects of Neptunes power, but I was confident I could ovee this situation better than anyone else. There was no need to cower. I already knew about Neptune, as well as why he was doing this.


    On top of that, I even knew Neptunes weakness.


    I said one more thing.


    Speak, pygmy.

 Chapter 43: Shot Table Dungeon

    Chapter 43: Shot Table Dungeon


    Pygmy.


    The moment I uttered that word, I coughed violently, feeling intense pain. It was like someone had rammed into my sr plexus.


    Gugh!


    It was difficult to breathe. Kneeling on the ground, I could do nothing else but clutch my stomach.


    Thats right. Get worked up.


    Neptune was definitely a Streamer of a race called the pygmies. Everyone acknowledged that. Even the Guardians watching right now used that term. But Neptune really disliked the pygmy appetion.


    Whether you dislike it or not, Im not the one who attacked you first.


    Neptune came closer.


    I dare you to keep mouthing off, you lowly little shit.


    Go on, bark. Ill end your miserable life for you.


    It was difficult to talk. A heavy pressure was crushing me. Fear that I might even die at this rate began to swell within me.


    No, he cant kill me.


    A tremendous amount of bloodlust needled my skin. If Eye of Perception hadnt been temporarily disabled, that bloodlust might have given me vivid images of my head being cut off. Just like thest time I was here on the 2nd floor of D-Tower, when I was getting attacked by the Magic Troll.


    I said, bark.


    I raised my head with difficulty. He couldnt kill me anyway. Right now, many Guardians were focusing on me, and I had even received sponsorships from many of them. If he were to kill me here, he would be the enemy of the Guardians who had sponsored me.


    You cant kill me.


    I was the one in the right.


    I only talked down to you because you did so to me first. I only put up an appropriate resistance because you threatened me with a wrongful method first. I only called you pygmy because your race is pygmy. Just what did I do to suffer this kind of treatment?


    If you were ignorant, you couldnt fight back. If you knew nothing, you could only be a victim. But I knew. I knew that my words were in line with the Commandments in this System. My actions werent just self-defense, but straight-out justified.


    At this point in time, I shouldnt be a criminal yet. Is it right for the strong to persecute the weak without justified reason? To persecute a yer doing a justified y?


    [The Lady of the Scales deeply sympathizes with your words.]


    [The Lady of the Scales applies the special power Innocent Until Proven Guilty.]


    The pressure crushing me disappeared, and I was able to breathe again.[Due to Innocent Until Proven Guilty, the effects of Forced Submission are removed.]


    That was only natur Guardians power was far higher in authority than a Streamers.


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain nods.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain has contempt for cowards.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain applies the special power Strong to the Strong, Weak to the Weak.]


    Be strong to the strong, and weak to the weak. It was a buff that amplified my strength when facing a strong opponent.[Due to Strong to the Strong, Weak to the Weak, all abilities of the yer will be temporarily sharply increased.]


    The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain followed on the heels of the Lady of the Scales to take my side. They probably took my side for different reasons, but they were both helping me all the same.


    Neptunes face filled with visible bewilderment.[Eye of Perception has been reactivated.]


    With my increased parameters from Strong to the Strong, Weak to the Weak, I could now read Neptunes information.


    [Intermediate Administrator]


    Name: Neptune (Pygmy)


    Age: 9


    State: Bewilderment / Shock / Panic


    Disposition: Headstrong / Competitive


    Summary: Very Competitive Pygmy<ul><li>The disposition/state/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li>Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    I tried taking a look at Senias info as well while my abilities were boosted, but it failed. Apparently, the Strong to the Strong, Weak to the Weak power the True Master granted me only worked on Neptune.


    Right now, I feel like I wouldnt lose in a 1 on 1 against Neptune, but


    A yer directly fighting a Streamer wasnt very desirable. The Guardians didnt really wee that, unless they were courage-lovers like the Courageous Lion King.


    It seems the Guardians think the same as me.


    Right on cue, a notice came in.


    [System Scan Result: No bug values have been discovered.]


    [System Scan Result: No illegitimate methods have been used.]


    I came this far using my knowledge of the future and by putting my life on the line. This was merely the starting line, but it was absolutely not the case that I got this far with zero effort. Starting with the lycanthrope, I had been ying with my life on the razors edge.


    Its fine to use me. Thats well within your right. But you forcibly persecuted me without any proof whatsoever simply based on your conviction, for the sole reason that I am weaker than you.


    Neptune was unable to muster a response.State: Bewilderment / Shock / Panic


    It was because of hispetitiveness and headstrong personality that he was unable to apologize to me right now.


    If I hadnt been able to speak up for myself earlier because I was scared of you this situation would have gone your way.


    It was because I formally raised an objection, because I rightfully spoke up, that the situation turned out like this. If I hadnt done anything, I would have be a literal punching bag.


    Dont you think its cowardly?


    Neptune bit his lips. From the way he tightly clenched his fists, it seemed he was very enraged. He still didnt want to acknowledge his fault, but Guardians stronger than him were watching, so he wasnt able to say anything.


    I didnt lose in a battle of wills.


    This was actually an unexpected win, seeing as I could direct the situation to my benefit.


    Apologize.


    Why?


    Because you were in the wrong.


    Youre also!


    He was about to say something like youre also in the wrong, but stopped short because he had no rationale for such an usation.


    I saw him wracking his brains, but I didnt give him the tiniest bit of ammunition to work with. I may have called him pygmy in order to provoke him, but that wasnt actually a mistake. It wasnt derogatoryI just called him pygmy because he was from the pygmy race. Just like how calling a human a human wasnt an expletive, this was the same logic.


    rry.


    I heard him say something very quietly. I scowled.


    What did you say?


    I said, rry.


    Neptunes greenish-blue face turned bright red.


    I said, Im sorry!


    Only then did I nod. An apology was an apology.


    You should give a token of your apology.


    Basically, <i>cough something up.</i>


    I couldnt let a perfectly good opportunity to carry out somewful extortion slip through my fingers.


    * * *


    After having Neptune close his channel, I got him to write a memorandum that he wouldnt attack me.


    That was a possibility, after all. Not just that, but I also got a Pygmys Ring from him.


    [Pygmys Ring]


    A ring made by a pygmy cksmith.


    Grade: Rare


    Durability: 50/50


    Effect: +5 fire resistance


    Equip restriction: Level 20


    He probably gave me the most useless thing in his possession, but even this was a real boon at my current level. Its grade was even rare, one step overmon. Considering that most beginners werent able to invest in essories, this ring could be called quite a big harvest.


    I went back home. Sunhwa was the first to run over and greet me. The savory smell of soybean paste stew wafted in the house.


    My sister nced furtively at me when I walked into the living room.State: Weing / Relief / Happy / Expectant


    Her feelings were as clear as day from her state, but her speech was the epitome of bluntness.


    Momsing back home soon too. Mom said she already ate, so eat, or dont, I dont care.


    From her attitude, it was like she was trying to say Who cares if you eat or not, I made it for Sunhwa and me anyway, but the four sets of utensils on the table were very telling.


    Ah. Is that why there was expectant in her status window?


    I washed my hands and sat down at the table.


    Thanks for the food, noona.State: Expectant / Restless / Anxious


    It looked like Id have to make a big ado about this stew being super delicious.


    Come to think of it, before, my sister hardly ever cooked. After I came back from the Tutorial Field alive, she had apparently changed a lot as well. She was even cooking, something shed never done before.


    But noona, whats the big asion? Whyre you cooking and all?


    I didnt do it for you. Its just that the kitchen is so big, so I just gave it a try. Its a waste to let that kitchen rot.


    <i>Ah, uh-huh.</i> Her state was too transparent for that to fly. It was obvious that she was devoting every ounce of her concentration onto my spoon.


    Its not tasty.


    It was pretty much her first soybean paste stew ever. Being tasty would be more unusual. However, I lied through my teeth.


    Its good, noona. Where did you learn to cook, noona? Whys it so tasty?


    Shut up, I know its not good.State: Embarrassed / Happy / Relieved / Joyful


    It was fun to watch her state change by the minute. And this embarrassed part was particrly amusing. I wouldnt have been able to tell had I not been looking for it, but her ears were ever so slightly red. Her expression was a block of ice, but her ears were red.


    I should feign ignorance.


    The quick-witted Sunhwa also professed the stews deliciousness as she chattered, and when our meal was almost over, Mom came home. She had a few pieces of bread in her hand, and I was suddenly struck with the feeling that todays meal was extremely joyful.


    Ahyoung made a stew? Goodness!


    Mom was surprised, too.


    Just cause. The kitchens too pretty, so I just gave it a try.


    Mom pped my sisters butt, saying, Well done! Our Ahyoungs ready to get married now. I sat at the table and savored this feeling of leisure. My sister was here, and so was Mom. It wasnt very tasty, but we had this warm soybean paste stew, too. There was bread and milk in Moms hand, and now, Sunhwa was here as well.


    Theyre all very small pleasures, but it feels great.


    Would it be too much of an exaggeration to call this happiness?


    I have to protect it.


    Be it this happiness, or this leisure, or these small pleasures. No matter what it was, I would protect this way of life, and achieve greater sess while doing so. Because now, I could do the things I hadnt been able to do in the past and had the ability to draw out my own future.


    I went to my room and reviewed my ns again and again, something Id done every day since returning to the past. To prevent any possibility of information leak, the notebook Id regressed with was safely stored in my Inventory.


    Next


    The next step could be summed up as two ns.


    This is better, but


    Gates were appearing all over the world, along with dungeons of an even higher difficulty. At the same time, breaks were also urring, and people were slowly getting used to such phenomena.


    Lets think about it a little more.


    I had to extract the greatest efficiency from the least amount of time. I went onto the Inte and pulled up the newly started Real yer forum. This ce, the beginnings of the future full-fledged Real yer website, was currently a gathering ce for yers, as well as a ce for exchanging information.


    I could even see quite a few threads like LF Raid Party Members here.


    Even though theres no structure or rules yet.


    Even so, mankind was slowly adjusting to this world.


    Will I find what Im looking for?


    After around 10 minutes, I found a certain post. The title was very closely rted to one of my two ns.


    Could this be?


    I looked at the posters name. If my prediction was correct, then the poster was definitely someone I knew.


    [Poster: JayangdongFireMaster]


    As I thought.


    JayangdongFireMaster was the nickname of Choi Sung-gu. Even though his nickname was a little silly, hister moniker wasnt silly in the least. His moniker was me Lord.


    Found you, Choi Sung-gu.


    I clicked on the post.

 Chapter 44: Shot Table Dungeon (2)

    Chapter 44: Shot Table Dungeon (2)


    The title was ordinary.


    LF yers to challenge the Shot Table dungeon with.


    In these times, with the world of yers being created day by day, posts seeking party members werent all that unusual. I checked the poster again.


    [Poster: JayangdongFireMaster]


    The me Lord Choi Sung-gu had finally made his appearance. I read the posts contents.


    LF yers to challenge the Shot Table dungeon with. The intermediate administrator rmended going in with at least 3 yers. Just to be perfectly clear, this is a dungeon, not a gate. Everyone knows that dungeons are the higher forms of gates, right? I am recruiting people to clear the dungeon with. Only people level 20 and up are wee. Things like items and coins will be shared evenly. I am a magician of the fire attribute, and Id like to work with a tank who can protect me. We can discuss the details in person. Oh, right. You can only go inside the dungeon if you make a party with me.


    It was a post written however the author wanted, without any structure or rules. It wasnt even that eye-catching.


    Normally, you dont publicize the dungeons name or location.


    Currently, yers were intimidated by the big word that was dungeon and avoided dungeon clearing, butter, it would be apletely different story. Although dungeons were dangerous ces, they were also treasure troves of new technology that couldpletely turn your life around.


    Casualties are happening every day in the Seoul Station Dungeon.


    I had already cleared the Seoul Station Dungeon, and as a result, there was no dungeon break. Even so, people continued to die while attempting to clear it.


    The Shot Table Dungeon, huh.


    It was the very first dungeon the me Lord Choi Sung-gu cleared. There wasnt much information about it.


    An event dungeon that disappears after getting cleared.


    Unlike the Seoul Station Dungeon, which remained in ce even after being cleared, the Shot Table Dungeon was a one-time dungeon that would permanently disappear once it was cleared.


    I wrote ament.


    Id like to help with the raid. Im a level 25 tank.


    Whether I sent him a DM or wrote ament, it didnt matterhe would contact me back. After all, there werent many yers trying to recklessly clear dungeons right now.


    After writing thement, I headed to the Seoul Station Dungeon with Sunhwa.


    * * *


    Before we arrived at the Seoul Station Dungeon, Senia appeared. Her creepily urate timing made me wonder if she was observing me at all times.


    Whatever, I needed to talk to her anyway.


    When we go into the dungeon, stand behind me, I said to her.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. Are you giving me amand right now?


    What the heck? Did she get lectured by other Streamers to not get led around the nose by a yer? Why was she being so petnt all of a sudden?


    You couldnt say anything to Neptune, who was persecuting me in defiance of the Commandments, but you sure have a lot to say to me.


    Senias wingtips trembled. This was no new revtion, but it urred to me again that this Streamer was truly easy to handle. If her skill was even 1% of her beauty, she would have probably been a famous Streamer in the past. She even let her emotions get the better of her, making her lose the timing to say something. I seized the initiative to say something first.


    Its rted to ying. Youll see that my request isnt unjustified at the dungeon entrance.


    Senia stood behind me with an expressionless face. The Seoul Station 2nd Exit, which had now be the entrance to a dungeon, was being guarded by two policemen.


    Identification, please.


    I didntmit a crime and cidly handed over my ID card.


    And thedy next to you?


    Shes my younger sister. She doesnt have her ID card because shes still a minor.


    Hm. Are you yers?


    Yes. Our levels are in the early 20s.


    The citys response was still too sloppy. The person who checked my details wasnt even a yer, but a regr policeman. It was obvious that the policeman was tense.State: Tense / Uneasy / Restless / Fearful


    There was one reason why this person was so tense. It was because Senia was standing behind me. Even though my dedicated Streamer, Senia, didnt do awful things like putting holes in peoples heads, slicing open their necks, or cutting them into two, to this policeman, she was definitely a terrifying existence.


    Guns dont work on them, they appear freely, unconstrained by thews of time and space, and they are strange, otherworldly beings with the power to cut a person in half with one wave of their hand.


    That was the way the policeman saw Intermediate Administrators. Thats why the policeman didnt give us much trouble. One misstep, and his head could go flying.


    Please enter.


    [This dungeon has already been cleared.]


    [Will you enter the Seoul Station Dungeon?]


    Of course. However, I wanted to clear it as a separate instance. I turned to Senia.


    Requesting an Independent y. Thats possible, right?


    After a moment of speechlessness, Senia finally opened her mouth. Its possible, but


    I saw bite her lips ever so slightly.


    You must be curious, too.


    She must be very curious as to how I knew this kind of information, how a yer who had cleared the Seoul Station just once could possibly know about Independent y.


    The more curiosity and interest there is towards me, the better.


    [It is possible to request an Independent y of an already cleared dungeon.]


    [Would you like to submit an Independent y Request?]


    [Your Independent y Request has been epted.]


    An Independent y was exactly as it soundedyers would clear the dungeon with only the group they entered with, in a separate instance from the yers who had already gone inside. Only the space itself was different. The contents were the same.[Entering the Seoul Station Dungeon.]


    The two of us went through the dungeon the same way we did the first time. We saw Mandra.


    The correct answer is Rancher.


    [You have found the correct answer.]


    [You have fulfilled the Hidden Piece.]


    [Choose a Reward]<ol><li>Mandras Cuirass</li><li>Mandras Greatsword</li></ol>


    The Mandras Gloves I had already gotten werent included in the list of choices.[You have acquired Mandras Cuirass.]


    The Seoul Station Dungeon was a beginner dungeon, but it gave items with special resistance effects.


    [Mandras Cuirass]


    Mandras Cuirass has a special effect. It has a special resistance to fire and will protect the wearer from countless debuffs.


    Defense: 7


    Effects: Fire resistance +3


    After acquiring the cuirass, we cleared the Seoul Station Dungeon with the same method as before.


    [You have cleared the Seoul Station Dungeon.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [350 Coins acquired.]


    [ck Yaks Lean Meat acquired.]


    There was no special reward likest time. We were only given Coins and ck Yaks Lean Meat for clearing the dungeon. I hadnt expected any special rewards to begin with.


    Oppa, can we go in again?


    Yeah. Well do it four more times.


    Four times? Why? You said we only had to get the three items, right?


    You dont want any?


    Ah!


    Sunhwas eyes grew wide.


    I can also get them?


    She smiled brightly. Apparently, it hadnt even urred to her that she might get items of her own.


    Makes it easier to use you.


    Oppa really is the only one whos got my best interests in mind!


    I gave her a slight noogie. Dont stealthily drop the formalities. If I had married early, I couldve had a daughter your age.


    Tch, were only six years apart.


    I just chuckled. The way she rubbed her head, even though it didnt hurt at allshe was a genius tanker, after allmade her look like a little kid.


    Lets go in.


    We went into the Seoul Station Dungeon again. It was time to get the Mandras Greatsword.[Mandras Greatsword acquired.]


    Mandras Greatsword has a special effect. It has a greater attack power against earth attribute creatures.


    Attack Power: 18-22


    Effects:<ol><li>+10% crit chance against earth-attribute creatures</li><li>+10% attack power against earth-attribute creatures</li></ol>


    Sunhwa and I finished four rounds of Independent y, and by the end of it, we had two gloves, two cuirasses, and two greatswords.


    As if she were extremely tired, Sunhwa moaned, Oppa, youre not a machine, are you?


    Dont whine.


    She was probably tired, but she wasnt at her limit. She was just acting like a spoiled child right now, and I had no intention of humoring her. Regardless of her cuteness, humoring her at this point in time would interfere with her growth.


    You havent reached your limit yet.


    I was telling her not to let herself feel tired with just this. In the future, a tiny bit of carelessness could lead to her losing her head. Even I, someone who knew the strategies of the future like the back of my hand, couldnt afford to be toox.


    Sometime during our clears, I had received a DM from the me Lord Choi Sung-gu.


    * * *


    I set up a meeting with Choi Sung-gu.


    Lets meet at Konkuk University Station.


    He was definitely an interesting guy. Despite not knowing what the inside of the Shot Table Dungeon looked like


    The more members there are for the clear, the fewer the rewards for each person. Ive gone in and run back out a few times, and I think three people will be enough. If it really doesnt work out, we can just leave again.


    That was his reasoning for insisting on going in with the minimum number members, three. In front of Konkuk University Station, I saw a man wearing sses.


    So he was skinny ten years ago.


    Ten yearster, the me Lord would be much fatter. Choi Sung-gu, prior to his weight gain, was a rather nimble-looking, ordinary man.[Eye of Perception is active.]


    I read his information, or rather, tried to.


    [yer]


    Name: Choi Sung-gu


    Argh.


    Intense pain assaulted my eyes, almost driving me to my knees.


    Oppa, whats wrong?


    [The Giant of the Sunset is invoking their innate power.]


    [You cannot examine Choi Sung-gu with Eye of Perception.]


    The eye-splitting pain suddenly faded.


    Im alright. Think something got into my eye.


    I couldnt read Sung-gus status.


    Even though he shouldnt be level 30 yet?


    And even if he was, even if he had picked a Guardian, no one should be interfering this directly so soon.


    Somethings fishy.


    I didnt know what it was, but there had to be a reason why the Giant of the Sunset blocked my innate ability.


    Damn, things wouldve been better for me if I knew why.


    For now, I didnt express my feelings. As Sunhwa and I walked up, Choi Sung-gu looked askew at me.


    Cmon man, even if were ying and all, isnt it a bit much to bring such a young girl into this?


    Yes, I knew. This man, Choi Sung-gu, had a weakness for kids, and not in a dirty sense like with Seo Joohwan.


    Dont you know that kids are precious treasures who should be protected?


    Im not a kid; Im a young adult.


    Doesnt matter, in my eyes, youre a kid. Kids and fried chicken have to be protected.


    The future me Lord Choi Sung-gu, and the Giant of the Sunset who was hiding something. My meeting with the two of them, and our uing challenge of the Shot Table Dungeon together.


    How interesting.


    It was said that the me Lord had a significant enlightenment in the Shot Table Dungeon and underwent a great awakening toter be famous as the me Lord.


    What will you show me here?


    I decided to see for myself just what kind of awakening he would show me here.


    And if need be


    It was possible that I might gain the ability that Sung-gu should have gotten, just like the Sword Empress sh Step.


    You said youve already gone in ande out a few times.


    The Shot Table Dungeon was a dungeon you could freely enter and leave.


    I dont remember anything about that, though.


    It was suspicious. It was suspicious that the Giant of the Sunset was being overprotective about him, and suspicious that the Shot Table Dungeon was apparently a dungeon you could enter and leave freely, something that hadnt been known in the past. Something was being hidden here.


    In any case, Sung-gu went on to say that he had challenged the Shot Table Dungeon, failed, and ran away a few times. He said there was a monster that was too powerful at the 2nd gateway.


    Whates out at the 2nd gateway?


    Sung-gu was silent for a moment.


    Its


    I listened to what he had to say. He did his best to describe it. Even though the description itself was total shit, I was able to deduce what it was.


    It cant be.


    The monster Sung-gu was describing


    Thats showing up already?


    That monster was one I knew.

 Chapter 45: Cross the Ravine of Fire

    Chapter 45: Cross the Ravine of Fire


    The world I had studied was close to the regr world. World history, the general outline of Korean history, knowing the key elements of a few important events, that sort of thing. Universal elements the vast majority of yers had to know.


    But there must be a Ranker world for Rankers.


    Apparently, that fact applied even now, during the beginner period.


    What Sung-gu described was a monster that took the form of arge horse, a red steed with a mane and tail made of mes. Wherever its hooves touched, mes would burst forth, dealing fire damage.


    Has a level of around 32. A me Horse.


    The me Horse was an animal-type monster usually around level 32. It took the shape of an animal and was simultaneously a spirit-type monster, just like the six-tailed fox.


    I dont think the former Choi Sung-gu revealed the fact that there was a me Horse here.


    Of course, there was the world of top Rankers that I didnt know about.


    Then howe the former Sung-gu hid the fact he met a me Horse in this dungeon?


    I didnt know if it was simply because there was no need for him to say so, or because there was a specific reason why he wasnt supposed to reveal it.


    Sung-gu shook his head back and forth. Haah. Thank god that monster lets you go if it thinks youre weaker than it. If not for that, I wouldve prolly been reduced to ash by now.


    To summarize Sung-gus words


    If someonell take on its attack instead of me, Ill give it a thrashing. Huhuhu.


    me Horses were offensive powerhouses, but they had weak defense. Because they were animal-type creatures, they had a ring weak spottheir heads. So basically, Sung-gu was saying, You get hit instead of me, and Ill attack.


    It seems youve had some amount of sess fighting it already.


    Yes. Even on my own, I was able to get it to bleed once.


    Thats why he was able to get out of there alive. If the me Horses blood fell under 20%, he wouldnt have even been able to flee.


    I never thought a me Horse would ever show up in a beginner dungeon.


    After hearing about the me Horse, I understood.


    Thats why its a dungeon you can freely enter and leave.


    It was because the fundamental difficulty was too high. yers were allowed to run away in order to bnce the difficulty. me Horses were monsters that were inherently lenient to the weak. If you turned tail and ran, they wouldnt give chase. They would simply look on with the attitude of the strong.


    That means you certainly havent progressed to the next gateway, then, I said.


    Yes. There wouldnt be an even stronger guy at the next gateway, right?


    Yeah, there probably would be. This called for a little preparation.


    Please wait a moment. I need to take care of something real quick.


    Eh? So suddenly?


    We didnt nail down a time for the raid, anyway. Sunhwa and I merely had our first meeting with Choi Sung-gu. Though, well, the person in question seemed to have thought that we would be going straight into the dungeon.


    What do you need to do so suddenly?


    Unexpected poo.


    Sung-gu nodded sagely. I get it.


    He sent me a look of encouragement. At the same time, I also felt jealousy from him. Because he was being protected by the Giant of the Sunset, I couldnt read his exact state, but I did feel a powerful emotion from him.


    Hes sincerely jealous?


    Sung-gu said to me, Stay strong. Best of luck. Im cheering you on. Man, Im jealous.


    Suddenly, I remembered a line in an article saying that for a while, Choi Sung-gu had suffered from severe constipation.


    * * *


    We met up with Sung-gu again.


    Shit. That frickin min donkey. Its too strong.


    He was right. The me Horse was too powerful a monster for us to defeat right now. For one, it was over level 30. It was correct that the beast was difficult to kill.


    The inside of the dungeon was, as per usual, like an underground cavern.


    Once we pass this part, well reach the 1st gate. I killed a Goblin Soldier there, along with a few ck cow-looking guys.


    By ck cow, he was probably referring to ck Yaks.


    As expected of a one-time dungeon, the monsters dont respawn.


    Killed monsters either didnt respawn, or had an extremely long respawn time.


    We encountered a forked path once.


    This path is a dead end, and if we keep going on this one, that monster will show up.


    You said the field changes, right?


    Yes. It changes to a, whats it called, a grasnd.


    The field would change to a ce perfectly suited for a me Horse to romp around, an expansive grasnd. On such terrain, the Fire Walls the monster put up would be very powerful.


    The jerk spews fire, so you have to be careful. If you get hit by that, its game over. He nced at Sunhwa. Man, it still bothers me. Making a youngss like her do the tanking is a bit After mumbling to himself for a while, he shrugged. Well, its fine since Im not the one getting hit, I guess


    Even though he was saying it didnt matter since he wasnt the one getting hit, there was still a glimmer of worry in his eyes.


    Sung-gu pleaded for the umpteenth time, If you end up needing to bounce, you gotta say so before you book it, alright? So I can book it, too. Got it?


    Got it.


    Sunhwa looked a bit done with Choi Sung-gu now. Just then, the field changed.[You have entered the me Horses Grasnd within the Shot Table Dungeon.]


    A green grasnd stretched out in front of us. A warm sun hung in the sky that was high above us. It almost felt like we were on a Mongolian grasnd.


    Jesus, fuck. Gave me a scare.


    And just three meters in front of us was the me Horse. I observed it with interest. It was a monster I already knew, but it was my first time seeing it in person.me Horse LVL 35


    Its higher than normal me Horses?


    They were usually around level 32, but this one was 3 levels higher. Also, even though it was quite a bit higher than me, I could still see its level.


    Its not normal.


    There was no doubt. Something was hidden in this dungeon. Everything was pointing towards that, starting from being freely excitable to the strange actions of the Giant of the Sunset.


    Sung-gu seemed a little nervous. When shall we attack?


    The me Horse was looking this way almost like a ruler, like the strong staring down at the weak from above.[Eye of Perceptions proficiency is too low to produce a detailed exnation.]


    If my Eye of Perception proficiency had been a little higher, I would have been able to see more detailed information about the me Horse, but At least for now, the me Horse lined up with what I had studied.


    Its a neutral monster, alright.


    I took one step. The me Horses gaze followed me.


    Sunhwa and I will do the tanking.


    It was alright to leave the damage dealing to Sung-gu, at least until it was at half HP. Since he had a few rounds of experience, he should be able to manage that easily. Sunhwa followed me in taking one step forward.


    Sunhwa. You must always be sure to block the mes it spews from its mouth with your shield. That means avoid direct contact. Are we clear?


    Got it.


    Sunhwas body would automatically protect her from any other attacks.


    Sung-gu, please make your preparations as well.


    Sung-gu clenched his fist hard. The mes flickering around his fist showed that he had already awakened his attribute ability.


    As expected. The ability to wield me.


    He had already awakened the power of the fire attribute. He might have even advanced already.


    He fought well, considering he got to half HP with the same attribute.


    For now, its most wary of me, I said. Ill take the front.


    I bought a shield from the Item Shop. It was my first time actually tanking. It wasnt as if I wasnt nervous being pinned by that monsters gaze.


    Sunhwa, you get behind it. Watch out for its kicks.


    Okay.


    Sunhwa moved forward. The me Horse continued to stand in ce and stare at us.


    Sung-gu, please attack the side. The goal is to bring its HP down to 40%. I continued, If you happen to have a buff that increases crit chance, be sure to use it.


    Mm? A buff that increases crit chance? Sung-gu scratched the back of his neck. Howd you know? I do have a skill like that.


    Because crits are super effective against animal-type monsters.


    I didnt give him more details. I turned my attention to the me Horse, approaching it first. Now, it was right in front of me. Level 35. One wrong hit, and I could kick the bucket. The fire ball it spewed from its mouth was particrly dangeroustaking a frontal hit from that was basically almost impossible to recover from.


    With the shield in one hand, I took out a dagger with the other.


    Ill aim for the middle of the forehead.


    I wasnt thinking aboutnding a fatal blow with this. If I could hit it, that was great, and if I couldnt, then it couldnt be helped.


    <i>Fwip!</i>


    I hurled the dagger. Although I had never learned knife throwing, I did my best to make use of the experience I had throwing the dagger that one time.


    <i>Neeeeeeeeeeigh!!</i>


    The me Horse screamed, rearing and iling its front legs, reaching a whopping four meters in height.


    My dagger had struck it right in the middle of the forehead. But unfortunately, I was apparently unlucky, because it didnt register as a crit. The HP went down by a bit, and that was all. I hadnt expected much, anyway.


    The battle starts now.


    My first battle in this ce, which was hiding something, began.


    * * *


    Choi Sung-gu felt his confidence grow.


    Gosh, the two of them are doing great, huh?


    The aggro didnt jump to him a single time. The me Horse was fighting back in a rampage, but it only attacked Kim Hyukjin or Kim Sunhwa.


    A fireball!


    The me Horse suddenly whipped its head around and fired a fireball. Sunhwa turned her body slightly to the side and blocked the mes with her shield, like she had anticipated the attack.


    She bounced it off by changing its trajectory.


    She blocked it in the way that put the least amount of strain on her body.


    This brother and sister duo is seriously great.[Using the skill Fatal mes.]


    mes flickered around Sung-gus fist. While the me Horse had its attention on Hyukjin and Sunhwa, Sung-gu nted his fist in the monsters ribs.


    [Fatal mes is taking effect.]


    [+3% crit chance]


    They had umted a staggering +33% crit chance, and they had already shaved off at least 30% of its HP.


    This is going way more smoothly than I expected.


    The me Horses movements were swift and dangerous, but Hyukjin and Sunhwas timely aggro switching and blocking were able to contain it.


    [Fatal mes is taking effect.]


    [+3% crit chance]


    [+36% umted crit chance]


    Only Sung-gu could hear the game notices. Hyukjin couldnt hear the notices, but he could still guess.


    Hes stacking up Fatal mes.


    Hyukjin made a calction with Sung-gus current level in mind.


    The umted crit chance should be around 35%.


    He was almost exactly right, despite not hearing the notices. It was like he was taught by someone, even though that was far from the case.


    An additional 35% crit chance.


    Plus its fatal weakness of being a beast-type monster.


    It also has some prominent weak points, like the middle of the forehead and heart, the neck, and the spine.


    There was already a dagger embedded in its forehead. In its current state, the chance tond a crit on the me Horse was even greater.


    Nows the time.


    Hyukjin shouted, Sunhwa! Get close to it! Towards its side.


    She understood immediately. If you approached it in a straight line, there was a high chance youd get kicked.


    Got it!


    Sunhwa closed in rapidly, making a big motion like she was going to swing her shield. The me Horse responded to that movement, turning as fast as Sunhwa, and backed away a little, intending on defending against her attack.


    Hyukjin had learned the me Horses habits from fighting it. He judged the distance and waited.


    Now.


    Stowing away the shield, he pulled out his sword, taking advantage of the brief moment the me Horses gaze was away from him.


    [Using the special skill sh Step.]


    He reappeared above the me Horse,nding on its back. Because its mane was made of mes, it was rather hot.[Mandras Cuirass resists fire.]


    Mandras Cuirass, an item with a +3 fire resistance, gave Hyukjin the strength to endure.


    If this guys master shows up, itll be way too tiresome.


    It wouldnt just be tiresomethe ones to die would probably be them. Hyukjin saw the back of its neck.[Using the special skill Excellent Strike.]


    <i>Spurt!</i>


    He plunged into the back of the monsters neck, not with a regr attack, but with a special skill granted by a title. The tip of his sword went through its neck.


    Its not over yet.


    It hadnt been a crit. With some luck, he could havended a crit with this attack, but he hadnt had high expectations for getting a crit with just this.


    <i>Neeeeeeeeigh!</i>


    The me Horses HP began to rapidly drop.


    The mes of the spirit-type me Horse, which had special abilities, started bing even more fierce. It was about to call its master.


    Now, Hyukjin thought, pulling out yet another thing from his Inventory.


    Seeing that, Sung-gus eyes grew wide.


    Da fuq? Are you for real?

 Chapter 46: Cross the Ravine of Fire (2)

    Chapter 46: Cross the Ravine of Fire (2)


    Choi Sung-gus eyes grew wide.


    Da fuq? Are you for real?


    The thing that came out of Hyukjins Inventory wasnt an item from the System.


    A <i>fire extinguisher</i>?


    The thing in Hyukjins hand was definitely a fire extinguisher. It was a convenient spraying type of extinguisher. Sung-gu had seen it before in Inte advertisements. It was purported to extinguish fires much more effectively than regr extinguishers, or something like that.


    Eh?


    But what surprised Sung-gu even more was that not just Hyukjin, but also Sunhwa, pulled out fire extinguishers. And she was even dual wielding them!


    Sung-gu was stunned.


    Hey! Howe Im the only one who doesnt have one?!


    Looking at them now, these two had clearly prepared this in advance. They had nned this together.


    <i>Szzzzzzzzz!</i>


    With the spraying sound, the zing mes on the me Horses body were quickly being extinguished.


    <i>Neeeeeeeigh!</i>


    The me Horse galloped about, emitting a piercing noise that was either a scream or a whinnyit was impossible to tell.


    Why am I the only one left out?!


    Choi Sung-gu muttered to himself, wondering if he should go and pee on it, at least, while backing off a little. He didin that they were leaving him out, but in any case, the key members of the raid right now were Hyukjin and Sunhwa. They both had one in each hand. A total of four fire extinguishers were fully performing their roles.


    The ces where that horse walked always went up in mes, but now


    Those mes became incredibly annoying traps. But now, they were getting put out. The mes were almostpletely gone.


    Shouldve used the fire extinguishers sooner, then. Or wait. If theyd used them at the beginning, it probably wouldnt have worked.


    He wasnt exactly sure, but it seemed to Sung-gu that this Hyukjin fellow used the fire extinguishers at the right time and chance, aiming for the timing where the item(?) that was the fire extinguisher could shine the brightest.


    Looks like the mes are pretty much extinguished.


    He was almost fascinated by the sight of Hyukjin clinging onto the rampaging horse without falling off. Did he learn horseback riding somewhere? It couldnt be that he was staying on with his leg strength alone.


    Sung-gu stealthily approached.[Using the skill Fatal mes.]


    Having gotten close, Sung-gu enveloped his fist in mes and struck the me Horses side.


    <i>Pow!</i>


    A loud impact rang out. At the same time, Hyukjin pulled his sword out of the me Horses neck.


    <i>Fwish!</i>


    And then, his sword drew a big arc.


    The me Horses head was cut off. It fell onto the ground with a plop.


    [me Horse has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [22 Coins acquired.]


    Hyukjin jumped off the copsing horses back, then shot Sung-gu a grin.


    You backed off and returned with very good timing.


    Sung-gus fist hadnded with perfect timing. Thanks to that, Hyukjin was able to cut off the monsters head with a little more ease.


    Hmph. Im in a really bad mood right now, so dont talk to me.State: Happy / Excited / Having Fun


    Like seriously, whyd you guys leave me out? Im good at using fire extinguishers too. Shwa, shwa. When I was a kid, I wanted to be a fireman.


    Hyukjin was so dumbfounded he had tough. Even though Sung-gu wasining, he seemed to be happy to have finally killed the me Horse that had stymied his progress.


    Oppa, an item dropped! Sunhwa said excitedly.


    An item?


    Hyukjin examined the item. Its name was Essence of me.


    Eh?


    It was already strange enough that there was suddenly a me Horse here, but that me Horse dropped an Essence of me.


    An Essence of me drops from a frickin me Horse?


    Essence of me wasnt a beginner period item. There was a ce in the Philippines famous for dropping Essence of mes, the White Beach Dungeon on Boracay Ind.


    To clear that dungeon, you need at least ten level 50 yers.


    Meaning, this really wasnt an item that should show up in the beginner period, at least.


    So why? Whyd it show up here?


    Hyukjin bent to pick up the Essence of me that was giving off a yellow light.


    [Essence of me]


    An awakening material that awakens ones fire attribute magic power. When ingested by a yer with fire affinity, all their fire attribute abilities will increase.


    Level requirement: 20


    Ingestion condition: Must have a contract with a special Guardian


    After reading the item description, Hyukjin was sure of it.


    The Shot Table Dungeon is a dungeon made by the Giant of the Sunset to awaken Choi Sung-gu.


    The original level requirement of the Essence of me was 40. It varied depending on the grade of the essence, but it was normally around 40.


    The level requirement is 20, plus theres an ingestion condition that usually isnt there.


    This item didnt normally have an extra ingestion condition. If a yer without fire affinity ingested it, their other abilities would be weakened as a side effect. In other words, only people with the appropriate constitution should consume the Essence of me, and it wasnt that great of an item for people like Hyukjin who didnt have an affinity to a specific attribute.


    Hyukjin recalled the notices he had heard earlier.


    [The Giant of the Sunset is invoking their innate power.]


    [You cannot examine Choi Sung-gu with Eye of Perception.]


    The Giant of the Sunset was tantly aiding a yer here. This was a ce he had prepared and given to Choi Sung-gu.


    If I were to eat this thing here


    I would 100% be the Giant of the Sunsets enemy. That was not a desirable development.


    Whats that item you just got? asked Sung-gu.


    Essence of me. When eaten by a yer with a constitution that matches the fire attribute, this awakening material will enhance their fire abilities.


    Huh? Im exactly that, a yer suited to the me attribute.


    His huhuhu-ing made him look like he was gleefully saying that things mine!


    Hyukjin said, I think this could fetch an incredibly high price if it were soldter. What do you think about splitting the earnings?


    Sung-gu flinched. R-R-Right, it can be sold, huh.


    That was what was fair. It was only one item and couldnt be split. Hyukjin continued to examine Sung-gu. It didnt seem like he was hearing anything special from the Guardians, particrly from the Giant of the Sunset.


    In the past, Choi Sung-gu cleared this ce alone.


    There was a high chance hed absorbed the Essence of me here.


    The fact theres a me Horse at the 2nd Gateway means there might be even stronger foes at theter gateways.


    If that was true, it was possible Sung-gu, who had the Giant of the Sunsets direct protection, would need to y a prominent role.


    But I think it would be best if you were to eat this now, Sung-gu.


    Beaming from ear to ear, Sung-gu took the item. Despite taking it with a whoop of Yas, its mine!, he wasnt actually able to ingest it. He was all smiles on the outside, but was apparently feeling a great deal of pressure on the inside.


    Wait. Um. I should really eat this?


    He looked like he would gulp it down right away just moments ago, but was hesitating now that he had to take the plunge.


    I think youre the yer with the highest fire affinity.


    I should really eat it?


    Yes.


    Sung-gu stopped short of eating it several times, hesitating. Everyone had worked hard together, so it was only right to share the reward, no?


    But.. why give it to me? You could eat it too, Hyukjin. To be honest, youre the one who had the biggest influence on this raid.


    Hyukjin thought for a moment. The Giant of the Sunset was sure to be watching at this very moment.


    Take a look at the item description.


    Name, Essence of me. An awakening material that


    He read out the description.Ingestion condition: Must have the protection of the Giant of the Sunset


    It requires the protection of the Giant of the Sunset.


    Hyukjin almostughed out of speechlessness.


    The description changed from when I had it?


    When Hyukjin had it, it definitely said Must have a contract with a special Guardian, but when the ownership changed to Sung-gu, the description explicitly said Must have the protection of the Giant of the Sunset.


    Im sure of it now.


    This ce was a dungeon belonging to Choi Sung-gu, made for Choi Sung-gu, and made because of Choi Sung-gu. The Giant of the Sunset had used his power to make that happen. The Guardian had probably invested an astoundingly huge amount of Coins. Very rarely, there were Guardians like thisGuardians crazy about a yer, ones that poured everything they had on us yers who were called their avatars or incarnations.


    If I had eaten it, I wouldve had a seizure.


    Hyukjin would have suffered a pretty big side effect, since he hadnt satisfied the actual condition.


    I have never heard the name Giant of the Sunset.


    Really? I hear it every day.


    Then that must mean you have been chosen by that Guardian. Dont get hung up on what that means and just ingest the item for now.


    Sung-gu scratched his head, clearly bothered by his conscience.


    Hyukjin smiled. Please dont let it bother you too much. If you really feel that way, lets do it like this. Well have dibs on the next reward thates out. Of course, Im not saying well get it no matter what. Well still need to discuss it first. Thats enough, right?


    Only then did Sung-gu nod. Thatll make me feel a bit better. Ill eat this then, alright?


    Hyukjin nodded, feeling satisfied too. This ce was a training center made by the Giant of the Sunset to awaken Choi Sung-gu by investing a ton of Coins. There was no knowing what kind of wonderful goodies might be hidden inside.


    Hyukjins words just now spoken were addressed to the Giant of the Sunset rather than Sung-gu. Since he had said this well in advance, he had a justification now.


    And Sung-gu himself said he would concede ownership.


    The Giant of the Sunset had no grounds to protest anymore. With a small investment of around five minutes, Hyukjin had secured definite justification.[The Whispering Devil is enjoying your ying.]


    * * *


    Sung-gu ingested the Essence of me. Other than a brief moment where his body was covered in mes, there was no obvious, visible change. Our group moved onwards, finding a portal at one side of the grasnd. It was a magic circle, like a gate that would teleport us to a different ce.


    We were able to reach the next gateway through the portal.


    [Entering the 3rd Gateway within the Shot Table Dungeon.]


    [You have entered the Ravine of Fire.]


    Some distance away, I could see a valley. It was exactly as its name suggesteda ravine where fire flowed instead of water. It almost looked like a river ofva.


    The air was blistering hot. Sweat began to bead on my forehead.


    Its hot.


    It wasnt just a normal level of hot. It was <i>hot.</i> The ravine flowing with fire was exuding a great deal of heat energy.


    The gap between the ravine stretched about seven meters. We had to cross that, but there was no bridge to be seen. Meaning, we had to go through the mes.


    Sunhwa tugged my arm. Oppa, the portals disappearing.


    [Satisfy the clear condition for the 3rd Gateway, the Ravine of Fire.]


    [If you do not satisfy the clear condition, you cannot leave.]


    My brows furrowed.


    Clear?


    We were given a System quest.


    [Cross the Ravine of Fire]


    On the other side of the Ravine of Fire is and of riches and wealth. It is known that there is Kuntan there. Please cross the Ravine of Fire.


    Sung-gus expression turned serious. I think I can cross it, but


    Naturally. He was a yerone who wouldter be called the me Lordwith an affinity to fire, had just ingested an Essence of me, and was under the protection of the Giant of the Sunset who had undoubtedly designed this dungeon.


    I have a feeling. I can definitely cross that.


    Of course he could. I didnt contradict him. After all, I had already judged that this Ravine of Fire was something created to allow Sung-gu to absorb that heat energy to begin with.


    Do you think you two can cross it? Sung-gu asked.


    Not sure.


    It wouldnt be easy. The ravine had a width of seven meters and a depth of approximately seventy centimetres. If Sunhwa and I went in unprepared, we would certainly die.


    The Giant of the Sunset doesnt want there to be any survivors other than Choi Sung-gu.


    This ce was made for Sung-gu, and Sung-gu alone.


    With this degree of difficulty, I think its the highest difficulty a beginner grade dungeon can go


    No matter how many more Coins were put in, the difficulty couldnt be raised any higher.


    In other words, this is the stretch of the dungeon with the highest difficulty.


    How they would go through this highest difficulty stretch was the issue at hand. And fortunately, I knew the method to resolve this issue.


    But just then, Sung-gu said something I hadnt expected.


    Ah, but you know

 Chapter 47: Giant of the Sunset

    Chapter 47: Giant of the Sunset


    Ah, fuck it. A mans got to have some pride. Theres no way Im going alone, Sung-gu said.


    What the heck was with this guy? I was about to tell him to go alone, but he preempted me, as if he had an Eye of Perception and had read my mind.


    Sung-gu. Please listen to me carefully.


    <i>This is a ce made by the Giant of the Sunset for you. That Guardian has gone all-in for you and dislikes other people.</i>


    And telling us to cross that ravine is like telling us to die.


    For now, it would be best to separate from Sung-gu ande up with a strategy. If we were with Sung-gu, the Giant of the Sunset who was only looking out for Sung-gu would find some way to kill us, in order to make it so that the rest of the rewards would go to Sung-gu alone.


    I believe you have a very high fire affinity, and you have even eaten the Essence of me.


    The original level restriction for Essence of me was 40.


    Also, theres a high chance you even have a special skill that increases your resistance to fire.


    Everyone knew that no fire on earth could harm the me Lord.


    Just as you said earlier, you can cross that ravine with no problems.


    Yes. Cause Im a genius. I can cross it, Sung-gu said, cutting me off. But still, how could I possibly go on alone, leaving you two behind? I have some pride. I wont do that.


    The tight line of his lips seemed to express his powerful resolve.


    Hes being sincere. He was sincerely refusing to cross. But thats not actually helping me


    <i>Youve gotta go ahead and clear this ce on your own, dude. Sunhwa and I are probably blocked from entering the rest of the dungeon anyway, and the Giant of the Sunset will make it so you can clear this ce no matter what.</i>


    Sung-gu.


    I stared at Sung-gu. I was grateful for his intent. If it were me, I might have made a different choice. In truth, I didnt open the convenience store door in the Tutorial Field in order to guarantee my own survival. I put my life before all others. I didnt think that was wrong or bad. It was just that Sung-gu was a little unique.


    Sunhwa and I cant cross that anyway. We would burn to death trying.


    Thats why we need to figure out a way.


    There was already a method. It was just that I didnt want to be noticed by the Giant of the Sunset.


    No, I think it would be better for you to go through alone.


    And what Im saying is, Im absolutely opposed to that!


    Im not telling you to abandon us. Im asking you to quickly clear this ce before something happens while we wait here. As quickly as possible.


    Choi Sung-gus eyes widened. What?


    Youve even eaten the Essence of me and have the protection of a special Guardian. In your current state, you will be able to clear this dungeon.


    But, but still


    Sung-gu wasnt an idiot. He was one of the 8 Heroes representing Korea. At first, he stubbornly rejected my proposal, but before long, he understood what I was getting at.


    Ah, dammit. Alright. Sung-gus face twisted into a scowl. Then Ill go clear this reaaaal quick, so just wait a sec.


    What little I could read from Sung-gus status with Eye of Perception changed slightly.


    State: Apologetic / Determined / Fired Up


    Summary: Emotionally Moved Champion


    Sung-gu walked towards the Ravine of Fire. For some reason, his back gave me the impression that he was deeply moved.


    Thanks for making the correct judgment in this situation. And for not being greedy about the item and giving it to me. This is what ying is. This is how ying should be done. Thanks for teaching me that.


    <i>Ah. Was this why he was touched?</i>


    I will definitely clear this goddamned ce and save you. You guys stay right here and wait for me.


    <i>Um this isnt really a goddamned ce. It was made for you, Mr. Emotionally Moved Champion.</i>


    Sung-gu crossed the Ravine of Fire first.


    Phew.


    I was relieved. The Giant of the Sunset would now focus his attention solely on Sung-gu, which meant it was now time for us to take the next step.


    * * *


    Sunhwa and I talked a little. What we said wasnt all that important. Just will it be okay? and lets hope so, all we can do is wait here. Stuff like that.


    This little conversation was just to divert attention, to fool the Giant of the Sunset in case he was in Senias channel.


    As I chatted with Sunhwa, I bought a Whisper Stone from the Item Shop. It was an item that would allow me to have a private conversation with a Streamer, an Intermediate Administrator.


    [Sending the Intermediate Administrator Senia a whisper request.]


    [The Intermediate Administrator Senia has epted your whisper request.]<ul><li>Senia. Can you go stream some other yers? Or just turn off your broadcast entirely.</li><li>I will decide how I stream.</li></ul>


    <i>No, you idiot. Youre a fucking beginner. Listen to your oppa.</i><ul><li>Im just going to be sitting here. Itll be boring for the Guardians, you know?</li></ul>


    It wasnt that hard to coax Senia. It was a little tricky to carry on a voiced conversation with Sunhwa while whispering Senia, but this too, was manageable.<ul><li>Senia. Think carefully. From the Tutorial Field to now, youve always just focused your streaming on me. And what has that process been like? Ivee this far without much difficulty or hurdle.</li></ul>


    Senia didnt respond. She simply stared at me, as if to tell me to go on.<ul><li>That is to say, youve been directing the same way the entire time. With no sense of crisis, nothing. Just the same old method. You think thatll appeal to the Guardians, who are in constant pursuit of fresh excitement?</li><li></li></ul>


    It seemed she was already half-convinced. It really was a breeze to coax beginner Streamers ten years ago.<ul><li>That Ravine of Fire is a big trial for me. The Guardians must be curious about what Ill do, right?</li></ul>


    This wasnt a lie.


    [The Nameless Observer closely observes you.]


    [The Lady of the Scales cannot wait to see how you will ovee the difficulty in question.]


    [The Courageous Lion King rmends that you challenge the Ravine of Fire.]


    [The Whispering Devil is bored.]


    A whopping four Guardians who had revealed their names were watching me. The ones that hadnt revealed their names were probably kicking up a fuss altogether.<ul><li>Turn off your broadcast here. Make it sound like I will either die or give up here, and then show them a recorded broadcastter. Dramatically.</li></ul>


    In all truth, this technique was one that future Streamers often utilized, because it was more effective than showing the same material, creating the same pattern all the time.<ul><li>In exchange, I will cross that Ravine of Fire. Using a method unique to me.</li><li>Is it really possible to cross the Ravine of Fire?</li></ul>


    Of course it was. In the end, Senia epted my proposal. See? She was nning on epting it from the start.<ul><li>I will pause the stream after thirty seconds. Afterwards, I will go into recording mode.</li></ul>


    Senia asked one more thing, as if to satisfy her curiosity.<ul><li>But, how are you continuing to converse with yer Kim Sunhwa right now?</li></ul>


    Speaking and whispering at the same time was confusing and tricky at first, but I quickly got the hang of it.<ul><li>Why do you ask?</li><li>Its nothing.</li></ul>


    I could do it because it wasnt all that hard once I tried it. Come to think of it, I couldnt quite remember any yers in the future who could do both simultaneously. Or was I mistaken?<ul><li>I was just able to do it when I tried?</li></ul>


    * * *[Channel #19207 has closed.]


    The channel was closed. Now, there were no Guardians who could watch me.


    Senia also looks super curious.


    She was probably very curious about how I would go across the Ravine of Fire. Even after getting her to close her channel, the trials didnt end there.


    [The Ravine of Fire does not tolerate living beings.]


    [The Ravine of Fire is moving to swallow all life.]


    From that, I knew.


    The Giant of the Sunset is trying to make sure were dead.


    Even if he couldnt see, he wasnt one to let things slip his grasp. He was one thorough bastard. You could see that from the way he designed things to kill us no matter what.


    Senia. Dont worry too much. We were nning on crossing it anyway.


    The Ravine of Fire was getting closer? All the better. I was intending on going through it anyway, without catching the attention of the Giant of the Sunset. I moved towards the ravine. Since it wasing my way, my rtive speed would actually increase.


    Maybe I need to thank him instead. Haha.


    Sunhwa. It could get a little hot.


    That being said, this kid had a body of stone. She wouldnt be greatly injured.


    Got it. I trust you, oppa.


    I picked up Sunhwa. Even though she was in her first year of middle school, she was so petite that she could pass for an elementary school student. She wasnt very heavy.


    Hoo.


    This wasnt something Id ever done before.


    Didnt think Id be using sh Step while holding someone.


    It wouldnt be easy. That Ravine of Fire was a trap put down by the Giant of Sunset to roast us to a crisp. The air was getting hotter and hotter. The Ravine of Fire was truly moving towards us.


    The Sword Empress used sh Step like this before, too.


    sh Step was different from a magicians Warp. Warp didnt have continuity. It was teleportation between one point to another, with no in-between. But sh Step moved via a line. Your body moved quickly in order to go from one point to another, so quickly the opponent couldnt react.


    To put it another way, we have to go through those mes anyway.


    If I was using Warp, those mes wouldnt touch us, but with sh Step, they would graze us for just a split second.


    My heart thumped. I was intending on crossing it quickly with this sh Step skill, but I would be doing it with Sunhwa in my arms. If I messed up, one of us could be seriously injured or even die.


    The bright-red mes whirled and whipped. Even the me Lord Choi Sung-gu had gone through it, screaming, Ow! Fuck! Fucking hell, its hot! Fuckity fuck, its hotttt! while downing potions like a madman.


    I stopped right in front of the ravine.


    Its outrageously hot.


    One tiny step, and my legs woulde into direct contact with those mes. Sweat poured like rain from Sunhwas body as well, and her face was wet with sweat. This degree of heat should be painful, but she didnt voice a singleint.


    Hoo.


    From here on out, it would be the real deal. It wasnt possible to cross this thing with sh Step alone. If we went through as we were now, those fierce mes would swallow us alive.


    [Fox Tail]


    A Six-Tailed Foxs tail. Its said that the Six-Tailed Fox uses the strength from this tail to carry out its spiritual arts, and if used by someone else, the Six-Tailed Foxs tail will lose its strength and be destroyed.<ol><li>Can generate Foxfire.<ul><li>Foxfire: A small field with very high fire affinity/resistance.</li></ul></li><li>Can generate Fake Foxfire.<ul><li>Fake Foxfire: A small field with slightly high affinity/resistance for attributes other than fire.</li></ul></li><li>Can generate Clone Foxfire.</li></ol><ul><li><ul><li>Clone Foxfire: Summons a clone exactly like the user. The time the summoning willst is proportionate to the users MP.</li></ul></li></ul>


    Uses: 0/1


    I had a Fox Tail from a previous fight. Of the three options, I would be using the first. Foxfire. It would make a very small field. Its range was about thirty centimetres around the ground I was standing on.


    Hoo.


    I took a deep breath. A distance of seven meters. I couldnt mess up.


    Here I go.


    I tensed my legs and slightly lowered my waist in preparation to jump. sh Step could be used even without a preparation stance, but it should still be slightly more favorable to take a stance beforehand.


    I drew out the motion in my head.


    The other side of the Ravine of Fire, past the surging mes.


    I had already used Eye of Perception to see how Choi Sung-gu got to the other side, which wasnt visible. I hadnt been able to see how much he had to walk with my eyes, but I did see it with Eye of Perception.


    [Use Fox Tail?]


    [Generating Foxfire.]


    [You are within the domain of Foxfire.]


    [Your fire affinity and resistance have dramatically increased.]


    I used the Fox Tail.[Using the skill sh Step.]


    Then, I used the Sword Empress skill, sh Step, immediately afterwards. I surged forward with Sunhwa in my arms. The moment I did so, I felt mes far hotter than Id imagined enveloping my body. I clenched my teeth.


    Without fail we will cross!


    <i>Giant of the Sunset, you biased asshole. I wont die here!</i>

 Chapter 48: Giant of the Sunset (2)

    Chapter 48: Giant of the Sunset (2)


    Hyukjin used the foot technique for the instantaneous, swift movement that the former Sword Empress used.


    Its hot.


    For a moment, he almost dropped Sunhwa. It felt like the mes were eating him alive, like he had jumped into a zing st furnace. Intense fear of being burned into nothingness and the thought of melting away if he stayed for a moment longer in those mes assailed him.


    [You have been exposed to intense heat energy.]


    [The durability of Pygmys Ring has begun to rapidly fall.]


    [Mandras Cuirass has been destroyed.]


    The cuirass with fire resistance was destroyed. Not just Hyukjins, but also the one Sunhwa was wearing crumbled apart, never to be repaired again.[The intense heat energy has begun to affect the yers body.]


    Hyukjin sucked in ragged breaths.


    [Pygmys Ring has been destroyed.]


    A whopping rare-grade item was destroyed. Although they were in the mes for a very short moment, the ring was obliterated. Even so, they somehow barely made it.


    Are you okay?


    Sunhwa nodded. Hyukjin put her down onto the ground. Both of them looked terrible. The ends of their hair were singed off, and they had scorch marks all over. The only relief was that at least the scorch marks covered their bare bodies.


    Open the Item Shop and buy something to put on. Its fine if its cheap.


    Whether it was because of the heat exuded by the Ravine of Fire, or because she was embarrassed, Sunhwas face was as red as a tomato. Hyukjin turned around and dodged her eyes out of pointless embarrassment.


    Sorry.


    She was at a very sensitive age, and all of her clothes had been unintentionally burnt up. Hyukjin also bought beginner leather clothing from the Item Shop and put them on. Wearing them posed no inconvenienceone click, and they were automatically put on his body, almost like a game.


    I did see this sort of thing often on Youtube


    During a raid, a yers clothes were often the first to take the fall instead of their body. That was why some Rankers put on an inneryer of clothes with a focus on extremely high durability regardless of their defense in order to avoid being exposed. Tanks were especially prone to doing so.


    For me, well Its alright.


    Hyukjin didnt see Sunhwa as a woman. In his eyes, only mentally ill people like Seo Joohwan would see Sunhwa as a woman. So he wasnt all that concerned by the fact that he inadvertently shed his naked body. He was simply a little concerned that he had made all her clothes burn up when she was at a very sensitive age.


    She needs to get used to situations like this, too.


    If Sunhwa was going to walk the path of a tank, this sort of thing would happen.


    After a moment, Sunhwa spoke up.


    No, if not for oppa, I would have burned to death over there.


    It wasnt that she waspletely unabashed. Hyukjin might be a person she trusted and relied on, but it was still embarrassing and awkward. However, her relief at having gone through those mes mostly intact was greater than her embarrassment.


    Yeah.


    Hyukjin didnt say much, either. To be more precise, he couldnt. It was because the notices had continued even before he bought new clothes and put them on.


    Thats right. Earlier, when he instantly elerated to an incredible speed using sh Step, hed heard a notice.


    He hadnt heard it properly because the heat was so suffocating and intense, but when he thought back to it, he was able to remember the notice.[The intense heat energy has begun to affect the yers body.]


    It didnt boil down to simply affecting his body.


    [You have seeded in going through the Ravine of Fire.]


    [All those who go through the Ravine of Fire are granted a title.]


    [You have been granted the title Person of Fire.]


    Person of Fire?


    [Person of Fire]


    A title that increases ones fire affinity and resistance a considerable amount.<ol><li>+5 fire affinity</li><li>+5 fire resistance</li><li>+10% additional damage when using a fire attribute attack</li><li>-10% damage taken from a fire attribute attack</li></ol>


    Hyukjin got a sense for what kind of title Person of Fire was.


    Ten yearster, one of the me Lord Choi Sung-gus titles was Immortal Vulcan.


    This Person of Fire title would probably be Immortal Vulcan after a few evolutions.


    Sung-gu must have gotten this title here, too.


    Actually, it was a title only Sung-gu was supposed to get. After all, if things had gone ording to the Giant of the Sunsets ns, we would have been long reduced to ashes in the Ravine of Fire.


    Oppa, I got a title, too.


    I know. You got Person of Fire, right?


    Yes.


    Sunhwa looked really happy that she got a title.


    Happy?


    Sunhwa nodded. To be honest, I was really scared earlier.


    Of what?


    I thought the mes would swallow me alive.


    Your bodys sturdier than mine. Even I was fine, so it goes without saying that youd be fine.


    That was a certainty. I had the help of Pygmys Ring. Sunhwa had gone through without that, wearing only Mandras Cuirass.


    My brain knows that, but I dont think my heart is able to ept it yet.


    Hyukjin chuckled. That was only natural. Sunhwa was keeping up with him, but she was still undoubtedly a beginner yer. Only two months had passed since the Cataclysm.


    Ive done all I can now.


    All that was left was to wait. They had to wait until Choi Sung-gu, the one under the Giant of the Sunsets protection, cleared the dungeon.


    Were gonna stay right here.


    Here?


    Hyukjin whispered to Sunhwa in a voice so quiet that Senia wouldnt be able to hear. Because the Giant of the Sunset might try to kill us again if he discovers were still alive.


    The sole monopolizer of this dungeons treasures had to be Choi Sung-gu. That was the reason this dungeon existed. Thats why he had asked Senia to pause her stream. Sunhwa nodded in understanding.


    Choi Sung-gu will definitely clear this dungeon.


    He just didnt know how much time Sung-gu would need. In any case, Sung-gu would be able to do it. Hyukjin decided not to worry about it.


    * * *


    We crossed the Ravine of Fire and earned the Person of Fire title. I tried to stay as rxed as possiblenothing good woulde from being impatient here. Sunhwa seemed very tense, so I chatted with her to try to ease her nerves.


    What do you wanna do when we get out?


    Mm. As she hummed in contemtion, Sunhwa looked like she had let go of the nerves you couldnt help but feel in a dungeon. I could feel it through Eye of Perception.


    I want to eat.


    Eat? What do you wanna eat?


    Mm.


    Sunhwa thought seriously for a long while again. To this 14-year-old middle school student, the question of what she would eat was apparently a very serious matter.


    Tonkatsu! I wanna eat tonkatsu!


    Ah, tonkatsu.


    Sunhwas expression brightened as she eximed, as if she were a little happier by simply thinking about tonkatsu.


    Yeah. Tonkatsus tasty. Then, she asked, If I go with you, can I eat it without getting in trouble?


    In trouble? Why?


    After hearing what she had to say, I was taken aback. Sunhwa said she had gotten an allowance at the orphanage. Of course, it wasnt much. Shed gotten a really tiny amount from the education program in order to get a sense of economics.


    She told me she had patiently saved up penny by penny before going to a nearby snack stand.


    A poor brat like you wants to eat tonkatsu? No chance in hell, some grandpa said, punishing her and making her really scared, even though the tonkatsu at the snack stand had only cost six bucks.


    My heart ached. I could see my former self in her.


    Lets go eat tonkatsu.


    Back before I returned to this year, I had mumbled something whileying on my bed after realizing once again that life was not easy.


    The world sure is a bitch.


    Afterwards, I fell asleep. Simr to how the world had seemed so cruel to me, it might have been a scary ce for Sunhwa. I thought once again that I didnt want to live like that ever again.


    Time passed. It wasnt a short amount of time, something around six hours. I was fine, but Sunhwa endured the time with a patience that didnt suit her fourteen years of age, and at longst, the dungeon was cleared.


    [The Shot Table Dungeon has been cleared.]


    [Distributing the Shot Table Dungeon clear rewards.]


    Naturally, the lions share of the rewards would go to Sung-gu. Sunhwa and I would get a set portion, but I didnt expect much.


    [150 Coins acquired.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    My level also went up.


    [Level increased.]


    [Current level: 27]


    [1/3 Map Fragment acquired.]


    * * *


    We left the Shot Table Dungeon. There werent policemen waiting on the other side like with the Seoul Station Dungeon.


    I heard a voice.


    Thank fucking god! It was a naked man. Youre alive!


    He pulled me into his arms. It had happened so suddenly that I hadnt been able to dodge.


    Put some clothes on, will you?


    Youre alive. It took so long that I worried you might have died! Tears poured out of Sung-gus eyes. You did well. You did really well to live. If you two had died, I was nning on just ending it.


    Eye of Perception told me he was serious.


    Thank you for surviving!State: Gratitude / Relief / Joy


    He had truly been worried for us. Senias stream was off, but Sung-gus currently invisible Streamer was apparently still streaming. I heard some notices.


    [The Giant of the Sunset is astonished.]


    [The Whispering Devil is happy.]


    [The Barrier of Blue Light has begun to pay attention to you.]


    A new Guardian who had revealed their name in the channel of Sung-gus Streamer began to take note of me. It wasnt a name I remembered. They didnt seem to be a very famous Guardian, but I was still happy. This was how a yer got their name out.


    He must have already known as soon as the map was split into three parts. That we were alive.


    But the Giant could only be astonished after confirming it for himself.


    Biased asshole.


    If the Courageous Lion King was a courage-lover, then the Giant of the Sunset was a jerk who loved ying favorites. While I was thinking that, Sung-gu extended a magic tome to me.


    Here. Take it.


    What?


    When I got the Essence of me, I said so, didnt I? That I would give you the next item.


    Looking at his expression, which seemed to be loudly proiming, Im a guy who always keeps his promises! I couldnt help butugh in amazement.


    Thats why you want to give this to me?


    Of course.


    I was able to click the magic tomes name.[Vulcan Body Tome]


    The Vulcan Body Tome. Even in the world ten years from now, this magic tome was so rare it had only been found ten times. Every single person who acquired this tome became one of the top Rankers in the world, and Choi Sung-gu was among them.


    A promise is a promise!


    Sung-gu puffed out his chest, looking proud of the very fact that he was giving this to me. It seemed he thought that this was what a person should naturally do.


    I deliberated for a moment. Should I take it, or not?


    If I take it


    The me Lord would probably disappear from this world. The changes Choi Sung-gu formerly brought about would never happen.


    I dont fear changing the future.


    I didnt fear that in itself. There was a problem that was more pressing than that.


    [The Giant of the Sunset is watching you.]


    [The Giant of the Sunset is monitoring you.]


    A certain biased asshole was watching me, and not in the good sense. This Guardian had tried to block any yer other than Choi Sung-gu from getting rewards. So what would happen if I continued to defy his will and epted that magic tome?


    Hell probably go into Senias channel and try to kill me, no matter how.


    Simply put, I would be put on a Guardians hit list, one strong enough to raise the future me Lord. Getting on the wrong side of a Guardian that powerful could make life very hairy.


    Annoying bastard.


    I already had a courage-lover to deal with, and now this biased asshole. One day, I would definitely make these two pay, no matter what I had to do.


    Instead of taking that right away


    I decided to draw a slightly bigger picture and future. Instead of going for a small profit now, I would wait to reap a bigger profit a little further down the line. Because as long as I had the 1/3 Map Fragment, it was possible to change the person in the drivers seat from the Giant of the Sunset to <i>me</i>.


    Sung-gu. Allow me to make a proposal.


    <i>Alright then, shall we draw?</i>

 Chapter 49: A Real Party

    Chapter 49: A Real Party


    I had received a 1/3 Map Fragment. Ultimately, it meant that the other 2/3s would be necessary in order to clear whatever dungeon or gate wasing after the Shot Table Dungeon. Choi Sung-gu had to do it with us.


    Im sure the Giant of the Sunset knows that, too.


    He was probably in quite the shock up there. The dungeon was one he prepared for Choi Sung-gus sole enjoyment, but two sudden variables showed up in the form of Sunhwa and me and took a bigger portion of the reward than Sung-gu.


    Even though hes super biased he still cant ignore the order itself. Isnt that right? Biased asshole.


    The System had its own set of rules. Thats why the Giant of the Sunset was going through the trouble of fostering Sung-gu through the gateway that was a dungeon. Without his direct interference, he prescribed a set of trials and issued rewards only when those trials were properly surmounted.


    Maybe itd be different if he were as reckless and brash as the Demon Kings Guardian.


    If he were on the level of the Demon Kings un-named Guardian, he mightve been able to ignore things like order or rules altogether. It was known that the Demon Kings Guardian was more powerful and had more authority than any other Guardian in the world. That Guardian didnt even bother to give things through dungeons; They just rained down rewards indiscriminately. At least, that was how the rumors went.


    In any case.


    I decided to make a mutual contract with Choi Sung-gu, and I had to get Sung-gu to go into it 100% voluntarily.


    I have special eyes.


    It wasnt a total lie that I was deceiving him. I used a cleverbination of truth and lies to lead him into doing what I wanted.


    The Vulcan Body Tome is an item that you need far more than I do. So I think it would be best for you to use this.


    Ah. Like I said, thats not whats important here. Im saying you absolutely need to have this, yknow? I wont be able to sleep at night otherwise!


    <i>Yes, I understand. So listen to me, please.</i>


    Thats why I want to do this thing called a contract with you. Of course, you can refuse if you dont want to.


    There were now NPCs on the 1st floor of the Gwanghwamun D-Tower, including NPCs that would oversee contracts. They were called notary NPCs.


    A contract like this.


    Choi Sung-gu scowled. Ive got some pride, yknow. Whats a measly 3%? Ill give you 30% like a real man.


    The details of the contract werent anything special. It was a contract stating that for the next ten years, 30% of all profits earned by Choi Sung-gu would go to me.


    yers, as well as the new tech market, will grow rapidly.


    And the profits the me Lord Choi Sung-gu would earn would be beyond imagination. Even 3% of that would be a staggering amount.


    No, 3% is enough.


    It was better not to do it at all than to be too greedy. Plus, the Giant of the Sunset wouldnt be too reluctant about 3%.


    The Giant of the Sunset doesnt ignore the rules. Rather, he puts high value on order and justification.


    Knowing that, what would happen if I conceded the Vulcan Body Tome, a magic tome of a grade that could never exist in the beginner period, and for a contract that asked for just 3% of Sung-gus profits?


    Even the Giant of the Sunset would be convinced.


    I had created a scenario where he would have no choice but to be convinced, even if he didnt want to be. We would go and draw up a contract notarized by a notary NPC and even make a party contract of sorts saying that Choi Sung-gu voluntarily wanted to dungeon y with me.


    He wont try to kill us anymore.


    No, he <i>couldnt</i>. That meant that the door was open to jumping into the me Lord Choi Sung-gus personal scenarios, as well as taking a cut of whatever information and rewards came his way in the future.


    Nice.


    We headed to the D-Towers 1st floor, where we received a notarization from the notary NPC Senna. The woman in her early 30s wearing a ck suit and ck high heels stared at us strangely.


    Giving Sung-gu a weird look, she said, Hm. It looks to me that you really like the other person. A 3% share. An ally deration. And it looks like you even want to do personal scenarios together.


    Those were the terms of the contract. We wrote it up like that on purpose. This contract showed that Choi Sung-gu was voluntarily working with me. On the other hand, nothing about it showed that I was doing anything for him. I simply conceded the Vulcan Body Tome he got without any fanfare.


    Very well. The contract has been implemented. When it is registered in the System, it will cost 1,000 Coins. Who will pay the fee? The payer will be listed as such on the contract as well.


    Choi Sung-gus hand shot up. Me, me! Ill do it! He put on an air of mock severity as he looked at me. Splitting the bill, I dont like that kind of stuff. This ones absolutely on me.


    I had no intention of paying for it anyway, but I was still thankful.


    <i>See you in ten days, friend.</i>


    * * *


    Sunhwa and I took a taxi. Yes, even someone like me was able to ride a taxi now. During my civil service student days, I only ever rode the bus. Taxis were an extremely expensive method of transportation for my station, and there was of course no asion that demanded riding one. It <i>was </i>pretty nice to ride one, though. There was no harassment from others, and the air conditioner was cool.


    We decided to go to a tonkatsu restaurant in Sinchon. On our way there, I saw the Sinchon Hyundai Department Store and the connected U-Plex building.


    Thatll also be a dungeon.


    That building would be the location for the formation of a dungeon with a whopping seven floors. But the current Sinchon was overflowing with vitality. Many people who looked like university students arranged to meet there and filled the street with liveliness.


    The U-Plex Dungeon.


    It was a ce I absolutely needed to clear.


    I should go and get used to theyout a few times before the dungeon appears.


    We arrived at the tonkatsu restaurant.


    Uwah!


    Sunhwa reacted like a starstruck kid. Her wide eyes were full of happiness. She drooled at the sight of the freshly fried tonkatsu.State: Happy / Having Fun / Expectant


    Her summary even changed.Summary: Tonkatsu-Enamored Little Sister


    Whats with these summaries all the time?


    Last time, it was Weak Brocon, and this time, it was Tonkatsu-Enamored Little Sister. There were all sorts of words you could attach to Tonkatsu-Enamored, like middle school student, human, or gourmet, but seeing as it just had to be little sister, it seemed Sunhwa herself was really clinging to the position of little sister.


    It does look good.


    The tonkatsu was piping hot. The crispy fried coating over the appropriately thick meat was shining.


    Its so tasty. Its really, really tasty.


    I felt my mood improve a little. Sunhwa was sincerely happy right now, all because of one tonkatsu. It wasnt all that bad to see her happy face.


    <i>A poor brat like you wants to eat tonkatsu? No chance in hell.</i>


    She didnt have to hear words like that anymore.


    <i>The world sure is a bitch.</i>


    I didnt have to think those kinds of thoughts anymore.


    Is it good?


    Yes!


    I tousled her head once. For some reason, I just wanted to do it all of a sudden. Sunhwa stared at me for a moment like she didnt dislike it before breaking into a happy grin.


    Youre that happy?


    I am. Its good. Im so happy.


    On our way home, Sunhwa gave me a confession that wasnt a confession with a reddened face.


    Thank you.


    For what?


    It feels like I have a family now.


    It wasnt just a feeling, but a reality. Legally, we were family, and I thought of Sunhwa as family, too. This was a child who had put her life on the line for me. It might even be that we were more of a family than some other regr families.


    Were family.


    Sunhwa smiled brightly at that. Her eyes were glistening a little with tears, but I pretended not to notice.


    Ill do my best in everything, without being a bother.


    I gave her the lightest noogie.


    No need for that. Its not like youre employed or anything.


    Because that wasnt what family was. It wasnt that you had to work hard and do well in everything to be loved and cherished. You didnt have to be sessful to receive love. That was what I thought. For me, a failure who hadnt aplished anything, my mom and sister sacrificed themselves. They loved me.


    Through them, I learned what love and devotion was.


    Though I wont be able to match them in that regard


    Even so, since I was alive, I wanted to live like a real person.


    You dont need to do well in everything.


    Thanks for saying so.


    I grinned.


    Just one thing. Take the hits for me. Turns out getting hit by monsters is pretty painful.


    I-I will.


    Whats wrong? Did your expression just get darker just now?


    I-It didnt, okay?


    In that case, take a lot of hits for me. Got it?


    Haha. It didnt matter one whit that she looked like a small and young little sister on the outside. Since she could tank better than me, she obviously had to take the hits, even if it <i>did</i> hurt to get hit.


    Well, its fine cause Im not the one getting hit anyway.


    I grinned as brightly as Sunhwa had when she was eating tonkatsu earlier.


    Lets go home.


    * * *


    June 23, 2018.


    In two weeks, a dungeon will appear in the Peace Park in Paju, Seoul.


    It was the hardest dungeon in the beginner grade, far more difficult than the Seoul Station Dungeon. It had produced countless casualties.


    And five days after that Choi Sung-gus personal scenario dungeon will begin.


    Every single day, I thought about and nned out the things I had to do, because now, I was the architect of my life.


    I have to clear the Peace Park, without fail.


    But not yet. Countless casualties would arise, but I didnt have the strength to prevent that. I had to be at least level 30 to be able to clear it.


    I looked through the news. A few incidents caught my eye.


    [Launch of the yers Association]


    With the conglomerate Sungshins powerful support, the yers Association was established. Mankind was bing just a little more used to this changed world.


    [CEO Song Kiyoung elected to be the 1st Chairman of the yers Association]


    The president of Sungshin, Song Kiyoung, was elected as the 1st chairman of the yers Association. There were a few more incidents.


    [The Lions Roar Guild officially registers as a guild in the yers Association]


    [The White Butterfly Guild officially registers as a guild in the yers Association]


    White Butterfly had already registered, too. For reference, White Butterfly was the guild led by the future Sword Empress Shin Yeonseo.


    This was all stuff I knew. I had changed a few things in between, but history was flowing the way I remembered.


    And even in this very moment, the Demon Kings out there somewhere, growing stronger.


    No one knew who the Demon King was. I was still unable to make a decision. If the only thing I was concerned about was my own welfare, I didnt have to butt heads with the Demon King. The 8 Heroes of Korea chose to oppose the Demon King, and two of them perished at the Demon Kings hands.


    I shook my head.


    Lets not think too far ahead.


    For now, I would focus on the happiness right in front of me, like Sunhwa being happy over tonkatsu. In order to focus on the happiness right in front of me, I needed to stick to the things I had to do.


    Sunhwa and I continued to run through the Seoul Station Dungeon. We did Independent y and earned a lot of EXP through continuous grinding.


    One more clear, and itll be our 30th.


    We finally reached it.


    [You have cleared the Seoul Station Dungeon 30 times.]


    [You have fulfilled the Hidden Piece 30 Seoul Station Dungeon Clears.]


    Good. This was why I had gone through the Seoul Station Dungeon over and over again, to get this hidden piece. This hidden piece was, like some of the others, pretty much public knowledge.


    But


    It would be different for me. I predicted that I would get another notice.


    As expected.


    My prediction was correct. More notices that werent just about the hidden piece started toe in.

 Chapter 50: A Real Party (2)

    Chapter 50: A Real Party (2)


    They were the notices Id predicted.


    [There is a title that can be connected to the first discovery of the Hidden Piece 30 Seoul Station Dungeon Clears.]


    [The title that can be connected is First Pioneer.]


    This was why I intentionally told So Yoohyun and Shin Yeonseo to only clear 25 rounds of the dungeon. Sharing the hidden piece was fine and all, but the first had to be me.[Will you connect the title First Pioneer with the Hidden Piece 30 Seoul Station Dungeon Clears and trigger the linked scenario?]


    I went on to see what kind of scenario it was this time.


    If a yer with the [First Pioneer] title is the first to discover a [Hidden Piece], it is possible to trigger a linked scenario. Linked scenarios can be triggered three times.<ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">Linked Scenarios Triggered: [1/3]</li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">Linked Hidden Piece: [30 Seoul Station Dungeon Clears]</li></ul></li></ul><ul><li><ul><li aria-level="1">Scenario: Marked increase in the difficulty/rewards of the Hidden Field within the Seoul Station Dungeon.</li></ul></li></ul>


    I fell into a moment of deliberation.


    If it was only a marked increase in rewards


    Then I would have used one of my two remaining title effects, because the oft-mentioned reward from the Seoul Station Dungeon Hidden Field was something I absolutely needed. If there was a marked increase of that reward, it would definitely be a big help to me.


    But the difficulty goes up as well.


    What should I do? It was time to make my decision.


    The party would be me and Sunhwa, Yoohyun and Yeonseo.


    The original difficulty was about the level at which this party of four could clear it. That was my objective assessment. A level at which we could clear it with everyone surviving. In other words, it wouldnt be easy.


    More than that would be greed.


    I decisively gave up on linking the title.


    Normally, this hidden field is supposed to appear muchter.


    In the history before my regression, this hidden field appeared when the average level of regr yers, not Rankers, was 30. Considering that regr yers were between level 15-20 currently, its appearance had been greatly elerated in the timeline. The levels of those of us who could be called Rankers were in their mid-tote 20s.


    By the standards of 2018, the hidden field was conquered when the Rankers levels were in their mid 30s.


    At first, yers had struggled a great deal. Onlyter, when the strategy had been figured out, did the clear rate be much higher.


    At our current level This is perfect.


    Greed could invite disaster.


    Oppa, are we going in again? asked Sunhwa.


    No. We need to rest a bit.


    Her face brightened at that. It seemed the continuous runs had taken their toll on her stamina. Potions could recover ones actual stamina, but she had to have considerable mental fatigue.


    Its normal for your eyes to hurt and ache from just looking at your phone orputer for a long time, so


    We had been in a dungeon, where you had to maintain a state of tension that looking at a phone couldnt evenpare to. It was only natural to feel tired as time went on. To put it in other terms, youd lose your steam.


    Yeonseo and Yoohyun will also do their 30th clear soon. Sunhwa, you heard the notice too, yeah? About the hidden piece.


    I did. Ah. So thats why you told Mister Yoohyun and unnie to clear it 25 times.


    Yeah.


    With Yeonseos personality, if she were told to do it 25 times, shed probably do it around 28 times. And my prediction was right on the money. Yeonseo was currently on her 29th clear, and Yoohyun on his 28th.


    Another day passed. Yeonseo and Yoohyun both fulfilled the hidden piece. We gathered again in front of the Seoul Station Dungeon.


    I believed that with thisbination of four yers, the hidden field was definitely possible.


    [Enter the Seoul Station Dungeon?]


    [The special condition 30 Seoul Station Dungeon Clears has been satisfied.]


    [It is possible to trigger the hidden scenario and proceed to the Seoul Station Dungeon Underground 2nd Floor.]


    [Proceed to the Seoul Station Dungeon 2nd Underground Floor?]


    I turned to the others.


    Everyone, move to the 2nd underground floor. There might not be a safe zone, so stay on your guard.


    It wasnt a might not, but a certaintythere was no safe zone. There was also a high chance we would be attacked as soon as we ported in.


    Sunhwa, dont forget what I told you.


    Yep, got it.


    We did the final inspection. As long as we werent careless, we would be able to get through this without serious injury.[Entering the Seoul Station Dungeon 2nd Underground Floor.]


    Like I remembered, the attack started right away.


    * * *


    Song Kiyoung, the first chairman of the Korean yers Association, as well as the president of the leading conglomerate, Sungshin, took the report he was handed.


    So the Seoul Station Dungeon has been cleared almost thirty times.


    Yes, sir. Some time has passed since the start of the police records, so it might have even been cleared more than thirty times.


    More than thirty times, you say President Song Kiyoungs eyes were serious. And his clear speedpared to other yers?


    He is so fast it is beyondparison. I believe he has a special strategy.


    As we thought.


    Name: Kim Hyukjin; age: 20 years old. Despite his young age, the young fellow hadnt been cowed in the least by Kiyoungs Charisma and Pressure and had left a very unique impression on Kiyoung.


    His party members are the Tutorial Ender So Yoohyun, a young woman named Shin Yeonseo, and a child named Kim Sunhwa.


    I remember her.


    He had put in a special word and assisted in her adoption.


    The world has changed rapidly. We must walk in time with those changes.


    If they didnt, they would be eliminated. Several advanced countries like the United States and Japan had already permitted yers to possess personal defense weapons. They were ces where ying using guns was possible. Naturally, their leveling speed was faster than the leveling speed of yers in Korea.


    The United States is said to have already reached an average level of 20.


    Even though Korea had started first, there was a big difference in their average level, and that gap would continue to grow.


    And Japan has a simr speed.


    Even China was the same. Their speed of growth made him feel a slight sense of crisis. yers, new tech He didnt know how such things would change the world. Though he didnt know that, a sense of crisis that knew they couldnt afford to fall behind was welling up within him.


    Approach Kim Hyukjin.


    If it were Sungshin, they should be able to give him a huge amount of support.


    Are you telling me to scout him, sir?


    The President was suggesting they scout Kim Hyukjin for the guild Sungshin was preparing and nning. Taeguk Shield.


    TN: Taeguk is the symbol used for the Korean national g and means the supreme ultimate or the great duality.


    What kind of position are you considering, sir?


    The assistant probed the Presidents intentions. The yer Kim Hyukjin was definitely out of the ordinary. There was something about him. The mere fact that he was a cohort of So Yoohyun was enough to prove that. In addition, he had also sold the hair growth solution that was new tech to the President for a huge profit.


    He will need to give him a middle manager position at the very least, thought the assistant.


    So Yoohyun would probably be given the deputy position, and Sungshin would recruit a few yers who were distinguishing themselves.


    The guildmaster role would probably be given to the Presidents eldest grandson, Song Jinseok.


    Offer him the guildmaster position.


    Pardon? B-But


    This was a guild receiving the powerful support of a conglomerate. The assistant thought it was only right for the guildmaster of such a guild to be Song Jinseok. The annual sry alone would be in the hundreds of thousands. He didnt think that the value of new tech and Kim Hyukjin were that much.


    What? You think the guildmaster position is excessive?


    To be honest, yes.


    Song Kiyoung shook his head.


    No.


    It wasnt excessive. Kiyoung was sure of it. New tech was the future. And Kim Hyukjin had the potential to be the yer representing all of Korea at the center of the storm.


    Its not excessive at all. In fact, the opportunity itself may disappear altogether with time.


    He was confident in his eye for people, his capability to differentiate a jewel from a stone. Song Kiyoung believed he had that ability. And he judged Kim Hyukjin to be a jewel among jewels. It was just that he hadnt started to shine yet.


    Im trusting you to ry my thoughts to him faithfully.


    Yes, sir. For Kim Hyukjin, it will be a big honor.


    Go.


    Yes, President.


    In the solitude of his CEO office, Kiyoung sat on his chair and visualized the future.


    If we can obtain Kim Hyukjin and wield him at will


    If the future he was imagining was correct


    If we can raise Taeguk Shield really well


    Then Sungshin would be able to take one step forward. No, it would be able to jump<i>ten </i>steps forward.


    Kim Hyukjin.


    He couldnt forget the look in that young mans eyes. He could forge him into an excellent de.


    Work for Sungshin.


    The one doing the honing would be him<i>,</i>the president of Sungshin. He was confident he could bring Hyukjin under his banner and raise him into a faithful dog for Sungshin. That was what he had always done, and that was what he was sure he could continue doing.


    Ill let you be my hunting dog.


    * * *[Entering the Seoul Station Dungeon 2nd Underground Floor.]


    As soon as they entered, Sunhwa used her skill. She had already heard the general strategy from Hyukjin, who had purposely picked a time when the Intermediate Administrator (Streamer) wasnt there to exin it to her. Because she trusted and relied on himpletely, Sunhwa didnt pay much attention to the fact that Hyukjin knew this sort of stuff.[Using the skill Taunt.]


    Like the natural-born tank that she was, she could sense that she had sessfully pulled the aggro even without seeing the !!! marks. She figured out where the attack woulde by feeling. This was, in every sense of the word, the influence of genius.[Using the skill tinum Shield.]


    Her tinum Shield had grown a little. It now took the fairly tangible shield shape. Holding up her golden circr shield that glowed white, she blocked something.


    Urgh!


    Sunhwa felt quite a lot of pain in her shoulders.


    <i>Plop!</i>


    Something fell to the ground. With her sword aloft, Yeonseo went and checked what it was.


    An arrow?


    The 2nd underground floor of the Seoul Station Dungeon was a cave-type dungeon. Rough breathing noises wereing from some distance ahead in the cave.


    Theres more than just a couple, thought Yeonseo. She didnt have a skill like Hyukjins Eye of Perception, but she knew there were living beings of some sort in the far corner.


    In a small voice, Hyukjin said, Theres a monster capable of long-ranged attacks.


    He knew what this monsters identity was.


    Orc Archer.


    Actually, Orcs were the starting point for true monsters. That was because from Orcs onward, monsters had a strong resistance to modern weapons. It was difficult to face an Orc with guns or knives that werent items. Of course, it was a different story if you had something like a machine gun, but in any case, from Orcs onward, it was real monster territory.


    No matter what normal people do, they cant win.


    Even with the strongest monster in the Tutorial, the Lycanthrope, it was possible for a regr person to prevail if they had the strategy and modern weapons. But not with an Orc. It was impossible for a regr person to kill it with ordinary weapons.


    Notices came in.


    [You are given the 1st sh quest.]


    [Hunt the Orc Archer first.]


    This is a kind of tip.


    Though it came in the form of a quest, the notice was basically a tip telling challengers that you had to hunt the Orc Archer first in order to clear this ce. Since it was a tip, there would probably be no rewards for the quest.


    I see the Orcs.


    They were about 170 centimetres tall and had muscles on par with Yoohyuns, grotesquely twisted faces, protruding fangs, and monstrouslyrge mouths, from which disgusting smelling saliva dripped profusely.


    Chwik! Chwiiik!


    They could hear the sound of the monsters rough breathing, as well as footstepsing from a distance away.


    Yoohyuns brows furrowed. Theyre real monsters, hyungnim. Are we really going to square off with them right away?


    No.


    In the meantime, Sunhwa had blocked another arrow using tinum Shield. Her arms were trembling. Hyukjin had realized that.


    Two more is her limit.


    She couldnt keep blocking the arrows.


    Chwik! Chwiiiiiiiiiik!


    The footsteps drew nearer, and the Orcs became visible from within the darkness.Orc LVL 27


    It wasnt just one or two Orcs. There were close to ten of them. The closer they came, the greater the stench of their breath became, to the point that it was painful to breathe. And then, they saw two red Orcs.Orc Archer LVL 28


    One of them was nocking another arrow. !!! marks were above its head. Its target was Sunhwa.


    Let Sunhwa take one more, and then.


    There was no room for mistakes. If Hyukjin slipped up, one of their crew could die.


    Sunhwa. Block that ones arrow. And Yeonseo, follow me. Stay within three footsteps of me.


    What are you nning on doing?


    No time to exin.


    He purposely didnt exin to Yeonseo. There was a reason for it.


    From now on.


    They had to move organically, each person faithfully carrying out their role. If they didnt, they could all be wiped out. That was the level of danger this ce posed. But you could also think about it in the reverse.


    Well move as a real party.


    If they moved as a real party, smoothly and organically, they could kill the Orcs without taking any damage. Hyukjin was sure of it. He made a conscious decision to believe they could do it.


    We can do it.


    <i>Ready, set</i>


    The Orc Archer fired.


    <i>Go!</i>


    Hyukjin surged forward.

 Chapter 51: Yeonseos Awakening

    Chapter 51: Yeonseo''s Awakening


    Exactly when the Orc Archer fired its arrow, a path appeared through the regr Orcs protecting the Orc Archer for the slightest moment. In ser terms, it was a very brief moment where a yer could dribble straight through the defense for the goal.


    Here I go.


    Hyukjin shot forward. He didnt attempt an instantaneous approach like sh Step.


    <i>Whoosh!</i>


    He felt an Orcs iron club swing towards him. It wasnt able to hit him. The Orc swung into the empty air where he had just been.


    From here, to the left.


    The current Kim Hyukjin wasnt using anything like a movement skill or a foot technique. His movements right now were driven purely by his physical ability and reflexes.


    He ducked a little.


    <i>Whoosh!</i>


    Another iron club split the air above his head.


    The Orcs didnt stand idly by.


    Chwik! Chwiiiiiik!


    Ever so often, there were intelligent ones who could speak the humannguage.


    Chwik! Eat! Eat him! Chwiiiik!


    Orcs of this level could only utter words like eat, hit, or kill, but they were still creatures capable of a slight degree ofmunication.


    Chwiiiiik! Eat!


    At one Orcs shout, the other Orcs gazes zoomed in on Hyukjin. They didnt really have a top dog, but they were aware that chasing prey whilemunicating was much more advantageous than ying on their own.


    Yeonseo, who was scrambling to follow Hyukjin, thought she was going to die.


    W-What the hell?!


    There wasnt even time for her to scream. She urgently bent at the waist. After bending with a slightly awkward movement, she hurled herself forward.


    <i>Whoosh!</i>


    A metal club embedded with sharp thorns cut through the air.


    If thatd hit me I wouldve died.


    And even if she didnt, it would have given her a fairly big wound. And if she was injured in the midst of this Orc horde? It would be a death sentence.


    Dammit!


    In Yeonseos eyes, Hyukjin was dodging like a slippery snake. He slipped through the horde with ease, finding the gaps between the Orcs like a phantom.


    The Orcs reaction speed is at least half a beat slower than him!


    She couldnt tell whether the Orcs were slow or Hyukjin was fast, but the result was that they couldnt hit him. Their reactions were half a beat too slow, and consequently, the attacks rained down on Yeonseo behind him.[Using the movement art Heavenly Demonic Flying Step.]


    Her current attainment in the Heavenly Demonic Flying Step was 1. She was merely beginning to toddle, but the Heavenly Demonic Flying Step was a movement art granted to her by the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain himself.


    Hes going left.


    Which meant


    I need to go right here.


    Only then would an organic movement be possible. She was beginning to see paths that she hadnt seen before using the Heavenly Demonic Flying Step.


    Hyukjins Eye of Perception caught Yeonseos movements.


    Shes finally started to move properly, he thought.


    Orcs werent very fast monsters. He had predicted that if he dove into their ranks, they would undoubtedly attack him half a beat slower. And Yeonseo immediately dodged those attacks, making it so that their paths of movement would collide and tangle.


    Yeonseo is more than capable of confusing the Orcs.


    While the two of them were charging in, one of the Orc Archers nocked an arrow. Hyukjin could read the arrows destination.


    Not me.


    It was also not Yeonseo, who was running around in the Orc horde.


    Sunhwa. Youre doing well.


    He could only guess that Sunhwa was having a tough time. She was taking on sessive attacks from two Orc Archers, after all. Her arms might even break. But that was fineit was better for her bones to break than to die. When Hyukjin jumped into this pack, he was also resolved to get a few broken bones somewhere.


    But its easier than I expected.


    He could see the paths far more easily than expected. He didnt know whether it was because of Eye of Perception or his instincts, but the way the Orcs would move, the way they would swing, how they would try to surround him, all of it was sketched out in precise rity in his head without having to think.


    Did it.


    He had managed to approach the Orc Archer. Compared to regr Orcs, Orc Archers had much lower defense. An unprotected Archer was the perfect prey.


    Im killing it.[Using the special skill Excellent Strike.]


    Hyukjin thrust his sword into the Orcs abdomen.


    <i>Squeaaaaaal!</i>


    A strangled scream came bursting out. The Orc Archer dropped the bow and bent in agony.


    Back of the head! Pierce it!


    Hyukjins attack power was insufficient to kill it in one blow. But it was alright, because to his right, Yeonseo was quicklying in from a different path.


    Yeonseo leapt weightlessly into the air.


    Haaaah!


    From top to bottom, her sword went in.


    <i>Spluuuurt!</i>


    The tip of the sharp sword punched through the Orc Archers helm.


    <i>Thudunk!</i>


    The Orc Archers body crumpled. Yeonseos sword went through the back of the Orc Archers head and into the ground.


    Okay! Got it!


    Yeonseo heard a notice.


    [Orc Archer has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [31 Coins acquired.]


    At exactly the same time, Hyukjin kicked Yeonseo away. Rather than saying he kicked her, he pushed her away with his foot with enough force for her to roll several times on the ground.


    Get it together! You wanna die after killing one?


    At the ce where Yeonseo had just been standing, an Orc had swung its club. If Hyukjin hadnt kicked her out of the way, Yeonseos head would have been crushed.


    One more arrow.


    Sunhwa could only endure one more Orc Archer attack.


    Ill kill him while Sunhwas got its aggro.


    The reason why he and Yeonseo were able to dive into the Orc horde, the reason why they could dodge and move freely through the monsters, was because the Orc Archers were only aiming for Sunhwa. Hyukjin was aware of that fact.


    We can do it.


    The Orcs were slower and Yeonseo was faster than he anticipated. He thought he would have to sacrifice his left arm or so, but it didnt look like that would be necessary.


    Move!


    Drawing in a fairly ragged breath, Hyukjin charged towards the other Orc Archer.


    * * *


    Hyukjin and Yeonseo hunted the remaining Orc Archer.


    [Orc Archer has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [31 Coins acquired.]


    At the same time, a notice came in.


    [The clear conditions for the 1st quest have been satisfied.]


    [The path to the next gateway will be opened.]


    [Destroy the Clear Crystal of the 1st Gateway.]


    <i>Ruuuumble!</i>


    One side of the wall crumbled down, exposing a cave. The Clear Crystal was definitely within.


    Yoohyun had the hunch that the time for him to y his part hade.


    I just have to avoid fatal blows.


    The aggro was currently being pulled by Sunhwa, Hyukjin, and Yeonseo.


    Slowly. Without hurrying.


    If he moved too quickly, the aggro would bounce to him.


    One or two is fine.


    He wouldnt fight them himself. The moment he did so, the others would swarm towards him.


    Chwiiik!


    He felt one of the Orcs approaching him.


    Soon. Itll swing.


    That club, he would take it on, letting itnd at the ce where it would hurt the least. He had to keep his right arm intact just in case.


    Sacrifice my left arm.


    Yoohyun clenched his teeth hard, then blocked the club with his left shoulder.


    Gugh!


    Incredible pain assaulted him. It felt like his shoulder was breaking. Even so, he forged onwards.


    Did it.


    For a very short period after an Orc attacked, it couldnt move. After taking one attack, Yoohyun was able to enter the cave with a few more steps.[You have reached the Crystal Zone of the 1st Gateway.]


    The Orcs no longer chased him. His decision-making had been good, and so had his luck. He saw a crystal exuding purple light in the depths of the cave.


    My right arm is still perfectly fine!


    He punched the crystal with his right fist. After a few sessive attacks, the Clear Crystal began to crack.


    <i>Thud! Thud! Thud!</i>


    His fist mmed into the crystal.[The Clear Crystal of the 1st Gateway has been destroyed.]


    Hyukjin heard that notice as well. Yoohyun had done his part very well, even without instruction.


    I knew hed be able to do well even without being taught what to do.


    Hyukjin hadnt given a detailed exnation on purposethere was no need to make it too obvious that he knew this ce already. How Yoohyun would act had been a part of Hyukjins calctions.


    A destroyed shoulder can be quickly healed with potions.


    Yoohyun would be fine.


    Chwik! Chwiiiik!


    The grunting Orcs stiffened in ce.


    <i>Krrrgkkrrrgk!</i>


    They began to turn into stone. From the soles of their feet to their heads, they all became stone.Petrified Orc LVL 27


    Yeonseos heart finally settled again.


    Phew. A littleter, I wouldve gotten hit.


    Yeonseo crouched a little and slipped out from under the club that had be stone. As soon as she was out, she apologized to Hyukjin.


    Sorry. For being too excited earlier.


    Hyukjin didnt respond. The thought that even the Sword Empress made mistakes like that in her beginner days was fresh to him. He had never thought the Sword Empress would ever let her guard down for one moment to celebrate killing an Orc Archer and nearly take a fatal blow.


    If youd been hit back then, I would have been in danger, too. Do you realize that?


    Without Yeonseos assistance, it wouldnt have just been difficult to weave through the Orc horde, it would have been close to impossible to punch through the throng and kill the remaining Orc Archer.


    But wait, would it have really been impossible?


    Beforeing in, he had thought that would be impossible. But after running around in the Orc horde in the flesh


    It might have been possible.


    The Orcs were slower than he expected. It was true that their attacks were dangerous, but not if you didnt get hit.


    Nevertheless, he put on a harsh front. ying wasnt a joke or a game. It was an incredibly dangerous act with your life on the line.


    If youre going to y like that, go home.


    Dont you know that one action of yours can endanger the rest of the party?


    Yeonseo didnt retort back. Her shoulders slumped. I know. Im sorry. Ill be more careful.


    While they were talking, Yoohyun came over and started destroying the Orcs that had be statues. Blunt weapons or fist attacks were most effective against petrified monsters. Yoohyun was doing his role well. At that sight, Yeonseo clenched her fists hard.


    Only I did poorly here.


    Even the young Sunhwa carried out her task well, and the big Yoohyun did what he was supposed to do. That went without saying for Hyukjin.


    I cant go on like this.


    It wasnt like she had some clear goal. Rather, she was crushed by the pressure she felt when she realized that everyone here could have died because of one mistake from her. She was incredibly scared when she thought of that possibility.


    Get your head on straight, Yeonseo.


    The moment monsters appeared and the world changed, Yeonseo made a vow. A vow to safeguard at least her family and friends from danger. To protect the people who were precious to her without fail. That was what she swore.


    Ill do well.


    A small drop created a big ripple in her heart. If her heart was ake, then arge wave was beginning to spread out on the surface of the water.


    I have to be stronger.


    She absolutely had to be stronger. She couldnt be a burden. At least right now, at this very moment, the moment when she made a mistake, a burning desire to be stronger took root in her heart. That wish zed brightly within her. She ended upparing herself to Hyukjin.


    At least as much as Hyukjin.


    Strong enough that she wouldnt be a burden. Strong enough to repay her debt to him for saving her mom. She had to at least be that strong.


    At the same time, she heard a stream of notices.


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain has perceived your burning desire.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain responds to your burning desire.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain extends a hand to you.]


    Yeonseo wasnt the only one hearing the special notices.


    Hyukjin, who was about to scold Yeonseo further, was stunned into speechlessness. On the 2nd underground floor of the Seoul Station Dungeon, yet another new notice rang in Hyukjins ears, a notice that hadnt existed in previous raids.


    This sort of thing was possible?

 Chapter 52: Yeonseos Awakening (2)

    Chapter 52: Yeonseo''s Awakening (2)


    Notices came in.


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain extends a hand to you.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain wishes to offer you a special proposal.]


    The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain, the Sword Empress Shin Yeonseos reliable Guardian. This Guardian went so far as to use the adjective special to offer me a proposal.


    What could it be?


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain offers you the Heavenly Demon title.]


    [If you ept the title, your advancement will automatically ur.]


    I could only doubt my ears.


    Advancement due to a title?


    Advancement through a contract with a Guardian typically happened at level 30. I wasnt level 30 yet, but the True Master wanted to make me advance using a title effect as a bypass?


    And its a title with a Guardians name in it.


    That implied a lot.


    A Guardian who thinks hes the best in the world and is very weak to praise and ttery.


    That was the evaluation the world had of the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain, though of course no one dared to say that outright.


    But seeing as a Guardian like that wants to bestow a title with his name in it using an expedient, it must be an incredible title.


    It could even be


    A title that the former Sword Empress got.


    Since it was a title given in the beginner period, it was definitely capable of growth. The higher ones attainment, the stronger the titles effects would be.[The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain says frankly that Heavenly Demons have a I am my own Lord throughout heaven and earth temperament.]


    Simply put, he was bragging that the Heavenly Demon title was a really amazing title.


    I think this is probably a special title granted to only one person


    Then what would happen to the Sword Empress?


    Do I take it, or not?


    It might be an unfortunate development for Yeonseo, but it could also be a truly huge opportunity for me. The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain was trying to persuade me to advance, shouting I am my own Lord throughout heaven and earth and offering me a title bearing his name. Of course it was a good thing for me.


    Since he even ignored the level 30 advancement rule and went this far, hes certainly a powerful Guardian.


    There was no doubt about that. It was such a big opportunity for me that I had to seriously contemte whether I should ept it or not.


    No.


    I couldnt ept it.


    The Sword Empress Shin Yeonseo.


    The Sword Empress I knew was truly strong. She was said to be the strongest in 1 vs. 1 PVP. But even so, her limitations were clear.


    Only by gathering all 8 Heroes of Korea were they able to confront the Demon King and his army.


    If the Demon King was the object ofparison, then the ss the Sword Empress had possessed definitely had its limitations.


    Since Ive somehow returned to the past


    I had to be someone greater than the Sword Empress. I was given this chance, so I decided to do my utmost. I didnt want to limit myself to being a Sword Emperor or the strongest in 1 vs. 1 PVP.


    I made my decision.


    The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain


    Wasnt that petty of a Guardian. Meaning, even if I rejected his active offer of sponsorship, he wouldnt harangue me afterwards.


    I refuse.


    Notices came in instantly.


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain is greatly disappointed.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain feels great regret.]


    Thankfully, his reaction stopped at disappointment. Petty Guardians sometimes went and dered a yer as their enemy. When they did so, there was probably an apanying notice saying that the Guardian was greatly enraged.


    Yeonseo, didnt you also get a notice? I said intentionally.


    Yeah, I did. You got one too?


    She was really naive. A seasoned yer would have hidden such an urrence from me. What kind of contract a Guardian had offered her, what kind of title or abilities they were ying with, all of that was a kind of strategic asset.


    Shes so naive.


    The Sword Empress in her beginner days was extremely naive. Even without psychological warfare or trades, she thered a stream of information on her own initiative.


    It said he responds to my burning desire.


    Burning desire?


    Yeah. I After a moment of silence, she continued. want to get stronger.


    So she was saying she had a burning desire to get stronger. I understood that desire, because even I wanted to get stronger, right this moment. Later on, people judged burning desire to be stronger in itself as a part of ones talent.


    Of course the future Sword Empress would want to be stronger.


    The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain had reacted to that desire.


    The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain offered me an advancement.


    I thought he would.


    Eh? Really? You predicted this? How did you know? Did you also get a notice?


    Of course I hadnt predicted itthis girl was justing to her own conclusions. Everything she said were things that others wouldnt have ever known if she hadnt said them herself.


    So she definitely got an advancement notice.


    The Heavenly Demon had offered advancement to two people simultaneously, and before level 30. He certainly seemed powerful.


    He offered me the Heavenly Demon title, but


    There was a high chance that it was a unique title, which meant that it was highly likely the True Master offered Yeonseo a title of a lower grade.


    That wont do.


    Yeonseo was a teammate I would be working with hand in hand. She might be inexperienced and unreliable right now, but there was a big chance she would be one of the heroes representing Korea.


    How can I manipte the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain?


    I couldnt lie. Spouting obvious lies to Guardians was a suicidal act.


    I have to make him give her the Heavenly Demon title.


    After thinking, I said, He gave me very good advancement conditions, too. But I rejected it.


    Eh? Why? Why? Is this actually not a good thing? Should I not agree to this?


    Thankfully, it didnt look like she chose YES yet.


    I thought it was really good. Its not? Tell me.


    Mmhm. I didnt know what exactly she was offered, but it couldnt be as good as Heavenly Demon.


    Of course its really good.


    Then why didnt you ept?


    Because Ive got a rtively clear idea of what my ystyle is.


    My ystyle was currently something close to an all-rounder yer. I could go into most sses. But out of all those sses, the one that could fully bring out all of my strength right now was a ss simr to a sovereign.


    Using my knowledge and intuition to make party ying go smoothly.


    Really?


    Yeonseos expression was one of slight doubt. It was understandable, since I had gone for the Orc Archer with more efficient movements than her.


    * * *


    Just now, without you, Sunhwa, or Yoohyun, I wouldnt have been able to clear this ce.


    It wasnt a lie. The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain was probably listening seriously to my words as well.


    In other words, I have an aptitude for determining the traits and uses of each yer and putting each yer in the right ce.


    So youre saying youre more suited to be a leader, yeah? Yeonseo nodded in understanding. Yeah, I did think that while seeing you y. You move like someone who knows all the strats.


    Theres no way that could be true, right?


    Except there was. I knew all the strategies. But even if I didnt, it almost felt like I knew them instinctively. Somehow, it felt like I had that kind of talent. Doing this here, and that there, that intuition came to me automatically, though I didnt know if it was because of my talent or because of Eye of Perception.


    Since Eye of Perception is an innate ability, can you call it talent?


    Well, whatever.


    You can just think of it as a special talent of mine. The ability to determine a persons abilities and direct them appropriately.


    I think I get what youre saying. I definitely feel like the path is clear when I move ording to your words.


    I probably have a better understanding of you than you yourself.


    It wasnt a lie. After all, this girl had no idea that she had the qualities to be the future Sword Empress.


    You do?


    At least in swordsmanship, your dormant potential is way higher than mine.


    Really? You think so?


    I didnt know whether that was true or not, but it was hardly a tant lie. It also sounded quite truthful.


    I trust my eyes.


    Hm. I see.


    <i>You listening, True Master? This conversation is actually not between me and Yeonseo, but me and you. Are you really going to leave such a big treasure?</i>


    Yeah. Its hard to describe it in detail. Its something that only the special eyes I have can pick up on. If I hadnt been observing you right here in person, I wouldnt have been able to see your dormant potential.


    Basically, I was saying, You Guardians watching from above probably cant see this girls true value.


    You were observing me that closely?


    Why was her face getting all red for no good reason?


    Yeah. Because your dormant potential is huge.


    I didnt know you thought so highly of me.State: Embarrassed / Shy / Expectant


    Wait a sec, what was she expecting here? Why was expectant in her state? I really couldnt figure out what Yeonseo was thinking. Was I unable to understand the 20-year-old Yeonseo because I was a 30-year-old bachelor on the inside?


    You really mean it?


    Yeah. I think that the things I can do well and the things you can do well are different.


    Hm, hm.


    Yeonseo seemed a little happier than before. The carrot had to taste all the better after getting the stick.


    Thats why I thought that the honorable title the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain was offering me would suit you better.


    An honorable title.<i> Hey, Heavenly Demon. I really want that title too, dearest True Master. But sigh, theres no helping it. Itll suit this girl better, you know? Youll want to give it to her, you know? Shell be better than me, you know? Shes a real genius.</i>


    Thats why I refused. Because I judged that you could make that honorable title shine more than me.


    As I expected, the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain was paying close attention to my words.


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain is pleased by your words.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain praises your insight.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain praises you.]


    I decided to give a little more lip service.


    If you were to be the exclusive holder of the title that I almost got, Im sure you could make that title shine brighter than anyone. Its my belief that you could even be the most famous yer in the world.


    Yeonseos eyes grew wide. Really?


    Of course. Because a great Guardian like the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain offered an advancement through a title in person.


    <i>True Master, youre listening, right? And all the other Guardians, youre listening, yeah? Cant you see that the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain just used a trick to try and recruit us? You guys should step it up.</i>


    The other Guardians will definitely take action now.


    That was why I intentionally uttered advancement through a title.


    With this, hell have no choice but to give Yeonseo the Heavenly Demon title.


    Since it was already exposed that he had yed a cowardly(?) trick, if he didnt settle this properly, Guardians like the Lady of the Scales, who valued justice and impartiality, would stronglyin.


    I saved his face, justified my reason for refusing, told him she has a huge amount of dormant potential, and plus, his back is to the wall.


    In the end, the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain would grant Yeonseo the Heavenly Demon title. Sure enough


    Hyukjin. Ive advanced.


    Just in case this silly girl thered more personal information, I blocked her mouth with my hand.


    Theres no need to give every little detail about your personal information. Even to me or your party members.


    Got it? If you understand, Im taking my hand off, alright?


    Yeonseo nodded, and her state was updated.State: Shy / Expectant / Aflutter


    It became even more iprehensible. Where in the world was she getting this aflutter feeling from?


    [The valid time of the 1st Gateway has run out.]


    [You will be automatically sent to the 2nd Gateway.]


    When we were sent to the 2nd Gateway, I found myself in apletely different 2nd Gateway than the one I remembered.


    Goddammit


    I had a feeling I knew what this was.


    Why is this happening <i>now</i>?

 Chapter 53: Great Orc Warrior

    Chapter 53: Great Orc Warrior


    [Entering the 2nd Gateway, Vige of the Orc Warrior.]


    That much was fine, but


    [The 2nd Gateways scenario, Vige of the Orc Warrior, has been partially altered.]


    The scenario was suddenly altered, and I knew why.


    This is conclusive proof that the True Master gave Yeonseo the Heavenly Demon title.


    Nothing in life was 100% good. He had forcefully given Yeonseo something so good that it changed the contents of the gateway. It was only natural that there would be a counterreaction.


    The True Master didnt break the rules.


    When a Guardian actively interfered with a yers ying in such a manner, something would happen to counterbnce it. The True Master likely knew that as well.


    What changed, and how?


    Whatever it was, it was definitely not a good thing for us.[The perk of the 2nd Gateway, Orc Warrior bes stone when the crystal is destroyed, has been removed.]


    As long as we destroyed the crystal, the Orc Warrior that was this gateways boss monster would turn into stone. But now, that would no longer happen. This alone dramatically increased the difficulty.


    And it didnt end there.


    [The grade increase restriction of the Orc Warrior in the 2nd Gateway scenario has been removed.]


    [You are given the 2nd Gateways scenario quest, Kill the Orc Warrior.]


    The Orc Warrior was a monster that would grow stronger the longer you fought it. Since we were in a beginner-grade area, its growth was limited to Advanced Orc Warrior.


    If the grade increase restriction has been removed that means it can be an Orc Warrior of a higher grade.


    I mentally sifted through a lot of information.


    With the conditions of this ce, it cant evolve all the way into a High Orc.


    To begin with, High Orcs and regr Orcs were like apples and orangesthey were onpletely different levels. If a High Orc showed up here, we would all be annihted, 100%, no question about it.


    If I connect the 2nd Gateways perk and the current situation


    Then it was possible to deduce a rough estimate of how strong the Orc Warrior could be.


    Itll evolve to a Great Orc Warrior.


    Starting from the Great Orc Warrior, there was a wide variation in the levels of individual monsters of the same species, but they were typically around level 37. The higher level ones were even level 40. Such an opponent was, of course, impossible for us to face with our current strength.


    Dammit.


    The scenario hadnt started in full force yet. We were currently in the safe zone, but even this safe zone would soon disappear.


    What do we do?


    I had to think and figure out a strategy to clear this ce.


    Is there nothing we can do?


    Right at this moment, it seemed like there was no way forward.


    We were in the 2nd Gateway, called the Vige of the Orc Warrior. It was a grasnd field, and I could see tents built in a messy cluster in the distance. It was more likely that the orcs had picked them up and were using tents that someone had made rather than making the tents themselves. Metal stakes of various lengths were scattered on the ground around us.


    [The 2nd Gateway scenario quest, Kill the Orc Warrior, has begun.]


    [If you are unable to destroy the 3 Crystals within the set time, Orc Archers will spawn.]


    [Remaining time 10:00]


    This was the original content of the 2nd Gateway. I already knew where all of the crystals were.


    If we cant break three crystals within 10 minutes, three Orc Archers will spawn.


    I bent to pick up a few stakes.


    A key item.


    These stakes looked unrted, but they were definitely items you could acquire, important items.


    Yeonseo asked, Boss. What do we do? Should we start by splitting up and looking for the crystals?


    I nodded.


    You saw the way the Orcs moved earlier, right?


    Yeah. I think I can dodge them. Some way or another.


    I had to think hard for a moment. I already knew where the crystals were. The Orcs were still in their tents and hadnt shown themselves yet, but normal Orcs would soon swarm.


    If theres an Orc horde with Orc Archers in it and an Orc Warrior shows up on top of that, clearing this will be impossible.


    We absolutely needed to block the appearance of Orc Archers, even if we took some damage to achieve it. I had to calcte my actions well. It would be troublesome if it looked like I obviously knew where the crystals were on the stream.


    In that case


    I would use the most basic method, looking for them one by one.


    You see that tent in the distance with the g flying high? Well search with that point as the center.


    Got it.


    Start at the very right from that point and look for the crystals while moving towards the center.


    And dont fight the Orcs?


    Yeah. Avoid contact as much as possible. The crystalse first and foremost.


    Righto.


    Yeonseo set off first. A hazy ck energy was wisping off her legs, as if she were using a special movement technique.


    Its probably the Heavenly Demonic Flying Step.


    There was a high chance it was the 1st stage of the Heavenly Demonic Flying Step.


    Sunhwa and Yoohyun, you two take the other side. Move from the very left towards the middle together.


    They immediately understood. Yoohyun had slightly lower agility and speed. That meant he couldnt swiftly weave through the enemies like Yeonseo. They would have to take on a few attacks, which Sunhwa would block.


    Okay.


    Understood, hyungnim.


    With this method, we would be able to destroy two crystals within ten minutes, no problem.


    I have to break thest one, but


    Thatst crystal was inside the central tent. The problem was that the Orc Warrior was surely sleeping within that tent.


    If I go inside, itll probably start attacking.


    Originally, I was nning on having Yeonseo pull the aggro while I went in to destroy the crystal, and that would be a wrap.


    Because as long as we destroy the crystal, the Orc Warrior would turn into stone.


    But now, that benefit was gone.


    We were now in a situation where we had to kill the Orc Warrior anyway. I was still unsure. Could we really kill it?


    If we cant, then I just have to make it happen.


    My head couldnte up with a method to kill it, but when I actually went into the central tent and had a look for myself, I had a sh of inspiration.


    We can do it.


    I heard two notices.


    [1 Crystal has been destroyed.]


    [Destroy the Crystals: plete.]


    Must be Yeonseo.


    Yeonseo would join me soon. Yoohyun and Sunhwa would take a little longer.


    Yeonseo came running over with a slightly brighter expression.


    I destroyed a crystal. The Orcs were chasing me, but looks like they gave up in the end.


    Orcs were slow. They couldnt keep up with Yeonseo. As long as the aggro was weak, they would stop chasing her once she got a certain distance away from them.


    Well done.


    Did I really do good?


    Yeah.


    I examined the inside of the tent very carefully, finding a purple crystal and a snoring Orc Warrior. There were also regr Orcs napping around the Orc Warrior.


    I exined the method I came up with to Yeonseo.


    Listen up.


    * * *


    A cloud of dust was being kicked up. An Orc horde came running this way.


    Chwik! Chwiiiiiik!


    Unlike Yeonseo, who had properly shaken off the Orcs, Yoohyun and Sunhwa had a good ten or so Orcs hot on their tails.


    Yeonseo wasnt surprised. That was because she had already heard this would happen from Hyukjin.


    <i>Those two will definitely pull Orcs this way. Theyre not as fast as you, after all.</i>


    Hyukjin shouted, Yoohyun, Sunhwa. Just get in the Orc horde and keep their aggro on you!


    To make it easy for each party member to understand, I instructed them separately.


    In the meantime, Yeonseo, you attack them one by one. Keep the aggro on Sunhwa!


    Yoohyun and Sunhwa understood exactly what they had to do.


    I think we have to keep moving together, Mister.


    Okay.


    Otherwise, both of them would die. They had to work together. That was the only way they could survive while effectively stirring up the Orc horde. As they did so, Yeonseo started attacking them one by one. Her movements were indeed swift and precise.


    <i>Splurt!</i>


    Yeonseos sword pierced an Orcs throat, severing what would be the carotid artery for a human. Blood gushed out of the Orcs neck.


    I did it.


    Her goal was not this Orcs death. She carried out Hyukjins orders to the letter.


    <i>When you attack the Orcs, killing them isnt the goal. Make them bleed.</i>


    Next!


    A wound of this level was more than enough.[Using the skill Swift Strike.]


    With a strike 1.2x faster than a regr attack, Yeonseos sword pierced another Orcs neck, causing another stream of blood to fountain out. Yeonseo was covered in the spray as well. As she stood there, covered in dark red blood, she almost looked like a yaksha from hell.


    Next.


    Three, four, five Orcs. She aimed for the same spot every time, and sessfully struck the same spot every time.


    Hah hah


    Little by little, her breath becamebored. Even though she wasntpletely killing them and was only wounding them, fighting a whopping five Orcs at once was no easy feat.


    Sunhwa jumped in front of her.


    Unnie! Watch out![Using the skill tinum Shield.]


    <i>ng!</i>


    With a loud ng, Sunhwa heard a cra-crack! sound from within her body.


    Urgh!


    Her left arm hung limply. Her body was unable to handle the impact, and her shoulder was in pieces.


    While that was going on outside, Hyukjin approached the crystal.


    Getting to it immediately will be tough.


    The chaos outside was rousing the sleeping Orcs. The Orc Warrior opened its eyes as well.


    I cant make a straight line to the crystal.


    He couldnt see a route there. From now on, Hyukjin would have to fight the Orcs and Orc Warrior simultaneously, with no hope of support or help.


    I have to kill them.


    Even if he broke the crystal, they would remain alive.


    Starting with this guy.


    He lowered his body a little and approached one Orc with a speed that matched Yeonseos while she was using Heavenly Demonic Flying Step. Then, his sharp de aimed for the Orcs throat with a precision that rivaled Yeonseos.


    Chwiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiik!!


    Blood surged out of the Orcs neck as it screamed. Hyukjin jumped back immediately after leaving the big wound. He couldnt brute force it and charge straight in.


    A single mistake could be the difference between life and death. If he were to take a blow from the Orc Warriors huge club right now


    Would I even be able to survive one hit?


    Even that was uncertain. If he was unlucky and was injured, he would be surrounded by the Orcs in seconds. He could easily be the hunted instead of the hunter.


    Hyukjin filled his lungs and yelled, Come in!


    Yeonseo, Yoohyun, and Sunhwa, who had been fighting the Orcs near the tent, immediately ran inside. The injured Orcs thumped and clunked in after them. In mere moments, the Orc Warriors tent was thrown into total chaos.


    Chwikchwiiik!


    Chwiiik! Chwik! Chwik!


    It wasnt that wide of a space, and nearly ten Orcs crammed themselves in. The Orcs characteristic rotten stench and metallic reek of blood filled the space. In just moments, the inside of the tent was hot with fervor.


    And then, something shocking began to happen. Yeonseos jaw dropped.


    Hyukjins words were true!

 Chapter 54: Great Orc Warrior (2)

    Chapter 54: Great Orc Warrior (2)


    The Orc Warrior stood up, its nostrils ring. Its body was nearly twice the size of regr Orcs.


    Chwik?


    It smelled like something delicious the smell of blood.


    Chwiiiiiiiik!!


    The Orc Warriors eyes turned red. It didnt see that the ones bleeding were fellow Orcs and becamepletely intoxicated by the smell of blood.


    Hyukjin confirmed that the Orc Warriors eyes had changed.


    It worked.


    The Orc Warrior was weak to the smell of blood. With this much, it would instantly gopletely bonkers. Now, it would start hunting its allies like a train running off its tracks.


    <i>Cruuuunch!</i>


    The Orc Warrior ripped off an Orcs arm and chomped it down whole, crunching down on bone.


    Squeaaaaaaaal!


    Its hapless victim squealed. The Orc Warrior grabbed it at the waist and began to consume it, chomping and munching from the head down.


    Completely intoxicated by the smell of blood, the Orc Warrior became even more fevered.


    Delicious things!


    Delicious things!


    Delicious things!


    Only one thought, prey, dominated the Orc Warriors instincts.


    The Orc Warrior roared, dark red blood flying out of its mouth. The Orcs began to flee in terror.


    Chwiiiiiik!


    A notice came in at the same time.[The Orc Warriors innate ability, Orc Fear, has been triggered.]


    Hyukjin grinned.


    There it is. Orc Fear.


    Actually, this wasnt an Orc Warrior-exclusive innate ability. It was a technique most boss monsters had.


    Normally, its an ability that freezes yers or makes them unable to flee.


    But not right now.


    Right now, its to prevent the escape of its delicious prey, the Orcs.


    This Orc Fear wasnt aimed at them, the yers, but at the fleeing Orcs. As a result, Hyukjin and the others werent greatly affected.


    And the Orc Warrior isnt a super high level boss monster.


    He didnt know for sure, but he believed it was very unlikely that the Orc Warrior would use its fear move again. It probably had an extremely long cooldown. With the really high ranked monsters, they would fire fear at random and make things difficult for yers. But not the Orc Warrior.


    The cooldown being extremely long basically means that its innate ability has been used up.


    In that case, it would be much easier to face from now on.


    Squeaaaaaal!


    The Orcs became sacrifices to the Orc Warrior. The great beast chomped down Orcs as soon as it could grab them, as if the word satiety did not exist in its book.[The Orc Warrior has evolved into an Advanced Orc Warrior.]


    Breathing hard, Yeonseo asked Hyukjin, Can we really leave it be? Even though its body got bigger?


    It was already a hulking lump, but it became even bigger.


    Hyungnim. The definition of its muscles has be crazy high. I think its gotten a lot stronger.


    Hyukjin nodded.


    Fighting one Advanced Orc Warrior is better than fighting the Orc Warrior and its horde of Orcs. At least for us.


    The choice he had made was to fight one general rather than hundreds of soldiers. That was Hyukjins choiceto fight one strong being rather than a multitude of weak ones.


    This method is our path to survival.


    He also knew its limits. It couldnt grow all the way to a High Orc anyway. If it stopped here, that would be great, but even if it grew a little more, it would stop at a Great Orc Warrior.


    Its going to be dangerous anyway, so itd be fine to evolve into a Great Orc Warrior, at least


    The perceived difficulty would be simr. Both the Advanced and Great Orc Warrior were monsters that he and his party members couldnt defeat at their current level without knowing the strategy, anyway. Both of them were strong. The perceived difficulty would be simr, but the quality of the items they dropped would bepletely different. Since things hade to this, Hyukjin thought it would be good if it evolved into a Great Orc Warrior.


    <i>Cruuuuunch!</i>


    The now Advanced Orc Warrior was in a frenzy to murder and consume its allies. It ate yet another Orc, bones and all.


    It didnt show the slightest interest in the yers, Hyukjin and his party members. That was because the delicious scentthe smell of bloodwas exceedingly weak on them.


    Squeaaaaaaaal!


    Inside the tent, thest Orc disappeared inside the Advanced Orc Warriors belly.[The Advanced Orc Warrior has evolved into a Great Orc Warrior.]


    It finally seemed full. Only then did the Great Orc Warrior begin to have an interest in the yers.[A sh quest, Kill the Great Orc Warrior, has been triggered.]


    [Kill the Great Orc Warrior]


    Kill the Great Orc Warrior. You cannot kill the Great Orc Warrior with your current abilities alone. However, the Courageous Lion King will watch over your courage and guts.


    Quest reward: Special ability Mettle


    It wasnt a quest given to just Hyukjin. Yoohyun, Yeonseo, and Sunhwa got it as well.


    Mettle.


    Mettle: A persons grit and resilience in dealing with difficulties, no matter what they were.


    This came out here?


    There were a great number of ways you could acquire this ability. Hyukjin had also written up a n to acquire Mettle, because it was one of the key abilities for Rankers. If you had Mettle, your resistance to mental attacks became much higher, and it would negate a good portion of boss monster fears.


    I have to do it.


    It was unexpected, but he was happy about it.


    How unusual that the damned courage-lover is being helpful for once.


    In any case, he could earn Mettle with this.


    As long as I can kill that monster, that is.


    Raids were always one or the other. It came down to whether the foe died, or you did. Whether the monster died, or the yer did. It would only end with one or the other.


    Its big.


    It was about 3 meters tall, so enormous that it made even the giant Yoohyun look small. Yoohyun and Yeonseo stood on either side of Hyukjin, and Sunhwa stood right in front of him.


    Boss. Hyukjin. This is gonna be fine, right?


    Hyukjin didnt know.


    We have to hope that our n worked.


    If it didnt? Then they would die here. There was no other way. In this scenario, which had changed because of the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain, there was no other way for them to survive.


    * * *


    Yeonseo regripped her sword. A bead of sweat ran down her forehead, traveling over her cheeks and down her nape. She stared at the Great Orc Warrior with a piercing intensity. It wasnt making any real movements yet. This was the calm before the storm, the moment before two forces collided.


    <i>Thump!</i>


    <i>Thump!</i>


    Her heart trembled. Yeonseo kept her nerves stretched taut.


    At least


    The good thing was that the current situation was perfectly in line with what Hyukjin had schemed.


    Hyukjin created this situation.


    This was definitely the desired oue of Hyukjins tactic.


    Hyukjin said, Im going in.


    Oppa. Wont it be better for me to go in? Im sturdier.


    Hyukjin chuckled. Being sturdy means nothing. One hit, and itll be over, anyway. The level indication shows up as question marks to me.


    The Great Orc Warriors level was around 37. Sunhwa as she was now would not be able to block a single hit from such a monster.


    So its better for me to go, since I have a slight chance of being able to dodge.


    Hyukjin moved forward.


    Did it really work?


    Seeing as the Great Orc Warrior hadnt moved this whole time, it did look like their n worked, somewhat.


    It ate a lot in a hurry, so its stomach must be very bloated.


    And most likely


    The Mutant Wolfs Fang should have taken effect.


    The Mutant Wolfs Fang was an item Hyukjin had steadily collected ever since the Tutorial. It was also essentially the first item he acquired in the Tutorial Field.


    [Mutant Wolfs Fang]


    The fang of the poisonous Mutant Wolf. It possesses a fatal paralyzation poison.


    The Orc Warrior had swallowed the Orcs whole. Hyukjin knew that it would do so in advance and had embedded Mutant Wolfs Fangs all over on the Orcs bodies. The reason why they left the Orcs alive, why they pulled them all the way into the tent, and why they made the Orc Warrior eat the Orcs was all for this oue.


    Hyungnim. Will that really have an effect?


    A few wouldnt have made any difference.


    He drew even closer to the Great Orc Warrior.


    But this guy swallowed at least seventy fangs.


    He didnt expect the fangs to be able topletely paralyze the monster. Mutant Wolfs Fangs were unable topletely paralyze a Great Orc Warrior, of all things.


    But


    They could greatly slow down the monsters movements. Hyukjin slightly lowered his center of gravity.


    The Great Orc Warrior saw a yering near it. For some reason, its body felt sluggish, but it was fine. That puny human was nothingone bite, and it would be over. The Great Orc Warrior did not feel much danger.


    Hyukjin used the special skill sh Step by title switching. The monster ahead would be unable to react to his speed.


    <i>Whoosh!</i>


    The Great Orc Warrior swung its massive, 1-meterrge club.


    Its faster than I thought.


    The Great Orc Warrior reacted a little to sh Step. It was definitely a high-level monster.


    But this much, I can manage.


    It was only a little faster than he expected, not something he couldnt handle. Hyukjin whipped around to the back of the Great Orc Warrior using sh Step.


    Yeonseo!


    Giving a signal to Yeonseo, Hyukjin swung his sword at the Achilles tendon of the Great Orc Warrior.


    The monster raised its left foot, as if it had eyes on the back of its head. Then, it whirled rapidly around. Despite suffering from the effects of paralyzation poison, it evaded Hyukjins attack very easily.


    In the meantime, Yeonseo used Heavenly Demonic Flying Step to get close.


    That guy is aiming for Hyukjin.


    Its back was unguarded.


    My goal is the ribs.


    She couldnt deal a fatal blow in one hit. They had to pare down the monsters health little by little.


    Here I go!


    But just then, the Great Orc Warrior swung down its arm.


    <i>ng!</i>


    Its arm blocked Yeonseos sword. Even though it wasnt wearing armor, the sound was like steel meeting steel.


    How can its body be so sturdy?


    That meant at Yeonseos current level and attack power, she was unable to prate the monsters skin, especially the tough skin of its arm.


    Hyukjin saw it all.


    The look in its eyes has changed.


    Those were not the eyes of prey being hunted. The beast in front was full of confidence. The Great Orc Warrior was convinced that it was the predator here. Even though its body didnt move as it wanted, it could catch and swallow these measly humans no problem. Those were the thoughts Hyukjin saw in its eyes.


    The eyes of a predator.


    He had been waiting for this very moment. They would only have one chance. In order toe this far, he had designed and painted the situation stroke by stroke.


    Now.


    The opportunity hade. Hyukjin moved, determined to make a miracle happen.

 Chapter 55: Great Orc Warrior (3)

    Chapter 55: Great Orc Warrior (3)


    The Great Orc Warrior was convinced it was the predator here. It filled its lungs, preparing to let out a bellow full of confidence.


    GUROAAAAR!


    It roared, opening its jaws wide. These tiny humans. Even if they came in a swarm, it would not fear them in the least. It wondered how delicious human meat was, if it could be even stronger by eating humans. Its thoughts were dominated by such instincts.


    But then


    <i>Spluuurt!</i>


    Hyukjins sword pierced through the Great Orc Warriors mouth.


    SQUEAAAAAAAAAAAAAL!


    The moment it roared<i>that </i>was the moment Hyukjin had been aiming for. The Great Orc Warriors skin was tough. Even its eyes were sturdy. The mouth was very nearly the sole vulnerable spot of such a sturdy monster.


    Now. The inside of the mouth!


    It was a fleeting moment, but Hyukjin didnt let it slip through his fingers.


    SQUEAAAAL!


    With a sword lodged in its mouth, the Great Orc Warrior screamed as it crouched. Hyukjins attack didnt end there.


    I have to see it through.


    The Great Orc Warriors right fist came flying at him, but Hyukjin dodged it with ease. The force behind the punch was great enough to kill him instantly, but only if it hit him. Hyukjin took out the item hed picked up earlier.


    He drove the Steel Spike upright at a 90 degree angle in the beasts mouth.


    Now, it wont be able to close its mouth!


    He had utilized the strategy to the utmost, not missing the tiny opening he was given. He took a step back.


    Yoohyun!


    Yoohyun swiftly ran over. The Great Orc Warrior had fallen to its knees. It was wing desperately at its face, but the pain was too great for it to grab the sword lodged deep inside. It iled in pain, unable to do anything.


    Aim for the temples.


    The Great Orc Warrior on its knees was at a height where Yoohyuns fists could easily reach its head.


    Yes, hyungnim!


    Yoohyun approached quickly. He used his left foot as a central axis and pivoted his hips. A right fist loaded with all the force of Yoohyuns weight mmed into the Great Orc Warriors temple.


    <i>Bam!</i>


    A resounding boom burst out.


    Yoohyuns fistnded precisely on the Great Orc Warriors temple. Staying in ce, Yoohyun threw his left fist with his weight behind it.


    A left hook after a right hook.


    Yoohyuns sturdy legs allowed him to perfectly keep his bnce. The momentarily incapacitated Great Orc Warrior was no different from a sandbag to him.


    The Great Orc Warriors upper body swayed.


    Hyungnim! Can I attack its jaw?


    As long as you dont dislodge the stake.


    Understood.


    Yoohyun grabbed the Great Orc Warriors head with both hands and thrust his knee into its chin.[Using the skill Beginner Knee Kick.]


    The knee kick nted perpendicr to the ground didnt dislodge the stake. Rather, it pushed the stake further into the monsters gums, fixing it more firmly in ce.


    It went through!


    Normally, the Great Orc Warrior would counterattack or block, but not right now. First of all, it was under the paralyzing poison of Mutant Wolfs Fang, and secondly, it had suffered an attack to a vulnerable part of its bodythe mouth. The current Great Orc Warrior was not the usual Great Orc Warrior. It was far weaker.


    Yeonseo came in as well.[Using the skill Single Hit Finisher.]


    Yeonseo had also determined that the Great Orc Warriors weakness was the inside of its mouth. She aimed at a point directly inside the mouth, and her sword pierced its mark.


    After around five minutes, the Great Orc Warrior finally copsed limply to the ground.


    <i>Splurt!</i>


    Hyukjin buried his sword into the back of the Great Orc Warriors head.


    [Great Orc Warrior has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [50 Coins acquired.]


    He was able to get an item from the Great Orc Warriors body.


    [Great Orc Warriors Mr]


    A long mr of the Great Orc Warrior. It is imbued with the Great Orc Warriors strength. If processed in a special way and ingested, you will be able to acquire a special power.


    No other items were dropped.


    [The 2nd Gateway scenario quest, Kill the Orc Warrior, has been cleared.]


    [Distributing the Kill the Orc Warrior quest clear rewards.]


    [Great Orc Warriors Iron Armor has been acquired.]


    [Great Orc Warriors Leather Shoes has been acquired.]


    Hyukjin craned his ears at the notices.


    The Great Orc Warrior set is pretty valuable, even in the middle period.


    He was given iron armor and one pair of leather shoes. Currently, considering it was the beginner period, where most yers hadnt even advanced properly yet, he had gotten extremely good items.


    It should be really helpful in the level 30 period.


    But it didnt end there.[The special ability Mettle has been acquired.]


    The rewards for killing the Great Orc Warrior, a nearly impossible, highly difficult foe to defeat if not for Hyukjins quick thinking, were absolutely not small.


    [Mettle]


    Mettle is the aura of a ruler and the higher form of Pressure. It induces instinctive fear and awe in those who are of a lower level than the user.


    Unlike an innate ability, which was a dormant power within a yer, a special ability was a new power granted to a yer by an external force. Among those special abilities, Hyukjin acquired Mettle.


    Ah, so this is the higher form of Pressure.


    Pressure was the ability the President of Sungshin, Song Kiyoung, had used. Now, Hyukjin had the higher version of it, Mettle.


    But just then, he heard another notice.


    * * *[The Herdsman of Las Vegas has begun to watch you.]


    For a moment, I could only doubt my ears.


    The Herdsman of Las Vegas?


    Even among Guardians, he was an extremely famous one. He was the Guardian of Michelle, one of Americas top Rankers. Her nickname was Pyramid, or more precisely, Gold Pyramid.


    Michelles Guardian is watching me?


    The Herdsman of Las Vegas was a Guardian who ced a great deal of importance on effective team ys and teamwork. Michelle was a yer optimized for that.


    The queen at the top of countless sovereign ss yers.


    Each and every one of the yers under Michelles banner, the so-called Michelle Division, were national powerhouses of the highest level. The sovereign they followed was Michelle, and the Guardian Michelle made a contract with was the Herdsman of Las Vegas.


    I thought he would be in the US server?


    He was watching the Korean server instead of the US one? This was certainly unprecedented.


    The only person who sessfully contracted with the Herdsman of Las Vegas was Michelle


    A Guardian who had given almost exclusive support to Michelle and based his operations in the US server suddenly started to watch me. However, it didnt end at simply watching.[The Herdsman of Las Vegas has sent you Great Orc Warriors Leather Pants as a sponsorship.]


    He kicked things off with a very generous sponsorship. With that, I was able to acquire the Great Orc Warriors armor, shoes, and pants.


    Did anyone else get a notice from a Guardian called the Herdsman of Las Vegas? I asked.


    Everyone shook their heads. The Herdsman of Las Vegas was only interested in me.


    [The clear condition has been fulfilled as a result of clearing the scenario quest.]


    [Hunt the remaining Orcs.]


    Originally, the 2nd Gateway in the 2nd underground floor of the Seoul Station Dungeon would be finished once you destroyed the three crystals and smashed the petrified Orcs. But now, we had to kill all the living Orcs. The difficulty itself was far higher.


    However, they werent Orc Warriors, but regr Orcs, and terrified ones, at that. It wasnt difficult to hunt them down.


    [Orc has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [Level increased.]


    [Current level: 29]


    We went around the dungeon for about one hour.


    Squeaal!


    And then, we seeded in killing thest Orc.


    [You have cleared the Seoul Station Dungeon 2nd Underground Floor.]


    [300 Coins acquired.]


    [Dungeon title Conqueror of the Seoul Station Dungeon acquired.]


    [Leaving the dungeon in 30 seconds.]


    Dungeon titles were different from regr titles. Dungeon titles were special titles that only applied within the dungeon where it was acquired. Normally, they werent that useful.


    Having it is still better than nothing, though.


    Sunhwa smiled wide. We cleared it!


    Her brightly smiling face looked really cute. I wondered if this is how it would feel if I had a daughterter. Everyone relished the joy of the clear.


    Yeonseo went into a big stretch. Ill need to sleep for about three days when we get out.


    While she was stretching, something caught my eye.


    Huh?


    Over there, near the tent of the Great Orc Warrior, I saw a door in the air.


    Whats that door?


    Yeonseo turned.


    I dont see anything?[Leaving the dungeon in 20 seconds.]


    Sunhwa also tilted her head. What? Is there something there?


    Yoohyun was the same. Theres nothing there, hyungnim![Leaving the dungeon in 13 seconds.]


    I was sure of it. Only I could see that door. I had never heard of any kind of door within this hidden piece, the Seoul Station Dungeon 2nd Underground Floor, not even in the exploration logs of the Great Explorer Jackson.[Leaving the dungeon in 9 seconds.]


    A door only I could see. What did it mean? I had never experienced a phenomenon like this in the flesh.[In addition, the 2nd floor of the D-Tower parking lot is being established as an extra Safe Zone.]


    During the Tutorial, I had heard a special notice that no one else had heard.


    An unfair notice determined by talent.


    That was what I was seeing right now.


    Its because of that notice that I attempted the D-Tower 2nd Floor.


    It was because I heard that extra safe zone notice that I was able toe back alive from the Tutorial.


    A door visible only to me


    I made a decision.


    Theres a door only I can see. I think its a special hidden piece, I said quickly.[Leaving the dungeon in 6 seconds.]


    So you guys go out first. Ille out after clearing it.


    The clock kept ticking down. There was no time to spare.[Leaving the dungeon in 3 seconds.]


    I immediately used sh Step with title switching and reached the door instantaneously. Voices came from behind me.


    Hey! Boss! What is it? Whats going on!


    Hyungnim!


    Oppa!


    I wasnt able to exin any more.[Leaving the dungeon in 1 second.]


    My hand touched the door.


    [You have discovered a Special Hidden Piece, Forest of Unknowns.]


    [Entering the Forest of Unknowns.]

 Chapter 56: The Herdsman of Las Vegas

    Chapter 56: The Herdsman of Las Vegas


    Senias wings trembled. She was maintaining an expressionless face, but inside, she was greatly shocked.


    Are you telling me there was a special hidden piece here?


    That was something even she, an Intermediate Administrator, didnt know about. She had never thought that such a hidden piece would exist in what was merely the beginner period, not even a higher level period.


    A special hidden piece. It was the sort of thing the Guardians, as addicted to spectating as they were, went crazy over.


    The messages of Guardians reacting and entering her channel hit her almost like a deluge.


    [Anonymous Guardians are entering Channel #19207 in great numbers.]


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas has sent a subscription contract request to Channel #19207.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain has sent the Intermediate Administrator a 200 Coin sponsorship.]


    [The Lady of the Scales has sent the Intermediate Administrator a 120 Coin sponsorship.]


    The stream of notices continued without end. A whopping special hidden piece that no one had anticipated in the beginner period was discovered. And that was being streamed <i>exclusively by Senia. </i>The Guardians were not stingy with their sponsorships to such amendable(?) Intermediate Administrator. Of the guardians who had juste in and didnt know yet what was going on, the anonymous Guardians shot out a barrage of questions.


    What in the world is this?


    Isnt this the beginner period? A special hidden piece actually existed?


    Could it be a special area made by some respected Guardian?


    Can someone exin this to me please?


    The True Name Guardians who, unlike such rabble, could be called the real Guardians, watched the situation in silence. They might be staying quiet, but it was a definite fact that they, too, were on the edge of their seats.


    Senia was bewildered.


    This is the strength of good quality content.


    Actually, she knew. She knew she wasnt good at talking, that she couldnt make things fun like the other Intermediate Administrators, and that she couldnt amodate the Guardians tastes very well. The only advantage she had was her appearance, which could contend for the top ranks even among Intermediate Administrators in beauty.


    But beauty alone isnt enough for me to survive.


    That was something Senia knew keenly, as well. But now, there was already a Guardian wanting to subscribe, and countless Guardians were showering her with Coins. There were also many Guardians who didnt go into the channels of other Intermediate Administrators and stayed exclusively in hers, Channel #19207.


    Standing in front of the door going into the Forest of Unknowns, Senia stared at Kim Hyukjin. His movements held no trace of hesitation or dy.


    To Hyukjin, it was definitely uncharted territory, but he didnt look fearful in the least.


    yer Kim Hyukjin.


    Just like Hyukjin had guaranteed, he certainly proved his worth as quality content. If not for him, Senia would have probably not even made it this far.


    [The Courageous Lion King has sent a subscription contract request to Channel #19207.]


    [A great number of anonymous Guardians have be excited.]


    [A great number of anonymous Guardians are unable to take their eyes off yer Kim Hyukjin.]


    She looked at Hyukjin once again. She, like the Guardians, was unable to take her eyes off him.


    Please dont die.


    Senia was suddenly taken aback, greatly startled by her own emotions.


    No. I was just mistaken for a moment.


    She unconsciously shook her head, and three times at that.


    This emotion isnt me worrying about yer Kim Hyukjin.


    She, Senia, did not stoop to the likes of worrying. Such an emotion was worthless. She had no emotions. She was convinced of that. So the thought that had just run through her mind was absolutely not worry.


    This is merely uneasiness about what I would do if something happened to my quality content.


    Though no one was listening, she thought that to herself.


    Because it would be difficult to find such quality content again.


    While she was thinking, Hyukjin entered the Forest of Unknowns, and she followed, still amazed that he had discovered such a thing.


    The field changed. She saw an extremely dense forest, which suited the areas name perfectly.


    [You have entered the Forest of Unknowns.]


    [Issuing a clear quest.]


    [Find the master of the Forest of Unknowns and converse with them.]


    A clear quest was issued. Hyukjin had to find the master of the forest. Senia cast her senses far into the distance.


    Itsrge.


    It was a massive forest the likes of which could not exist in the beginner period. The size of this one forest was almost on par with the size of all of Seoul.


    I can hardly believe he was given a quest to find the master of such an enormous forest. Is this really a hidden piece that can be cleared?


    There was no knowing where he could be, or who the master of the forest was. This was really a quest with a lot of legwork.


    She heard his voice.


    This If things go wrong, I could die of hunger. Even though Im almost level 30 now.


    Senia didnt respond. Hyukjins words werent wrong. It was possible he could starve. This ce was sorge, and he hadnt brought any provisions.


    * * *


    I anticipated a response to my meaningful words. This was a ce that the Guardians would go crazy for, a so-called special hidden piece. There probably werent many Guardians who wanted a super rookie like me to perish out of hunger in such a ce.


    My level is 29. The Guardian selection time ising up.


    <i>So what will you do, Guardians? What kind of card will you offer me?</i>


    In mere moments, the notices rushed in.


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas lends you a Magic Camping Set.]


    [The Lady of the Scales lends you Magic Spring Water.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain lends you the Heavenly Demonic Breathing Art.]


    [The Courageous Lion King lends you a Magic Campfire.]


    [The Nameless Observer temporarily increases the grade of your Eye of Perception.]


    Though I was the one who wanted this to happen, even I was struck speechless.


    What the hell is this?


    The number of Guardians who could send messages at the same time was limited to five. Therefore, the previous stream of messages meant that all five slots were filled up to send me aid.


    Magic Camping Set, Magic Spring Water, Heavenly Demonic Breathing Art, increase in Eye of Perceptions grade, Magic Campfire?


    A Magic Camping Set was basically some simple cooking tools and equipment for camping bundled as a set.


    Senia approached me. I will begin exining the items. The Magic Camping Set is


    I knew everything even without her exnation.


    Magic Camping Set. Even though it looks shabby, its a camping set that costs over $30k.


    This set of items was something future Rankers possessed at least one of and wasnt something that should appear in the beginner level period. With this, I could even establish a safe zone, though it would be weak.


    Also, the Magic Spring Water is


    Drinking water.


    Correct.


    In an extended dungeon exploration, this Magic Spring Water was even more important than the Magic Camping Set. You could get at least 1,000 liters of fresh drinking water from it.


    Moving on, the Heavenly Demonic Breathing Art is a special skill temporarily granted by the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain that


    It was a skill that the Sword Empress would get in the future. You could think of it like a cure-all that instantly restored your fatigue. Even though it counted as a crucial ability of the Sword Empress, I would be able to use it, at least temporarily.


    The Magic Campfire is


    As one might expect, it was an enchanted campfire that could be turned on and off repeatedly. It was thought to be able to stay lit for at least 3,000 hours, could not be extinguished by rain, and also had a great effect in keeping monsters away.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. Are you listening to me?


    My eyes whipped to Senia. Was it my imagination, or did she raise her voice just now?


    Is she mad because I ignored her words?


    But the feelings I could pick up from her with Eye of Perception were a little strange.


    I dont think its simple anger.


    I couldnt say what exactly she was feeling. For now, I increased the grade of Eye of Perception with the help of the Nameless Observer.[Temporarily increasing the grade of Eye of Perception.]


    * * *


    Afterwards, I was able to perceive Senias emotions in greater detail. Things that I hadnt seen before were revealed to my eyes.


    [Intermediate Administrator]


    Name: Senia


    Age: 332


    Level: ?


    Race: Angel


    Subscriber Guardians: [Courageous Lion King], [Herdsman of Las Vegas], +1


    State: Neutral / Observing / Facade


    Summary: Woman Denying Her Feelings<ul><li>Level cannot be determined.</li><li>Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    Somethings a little weird about her state and summary.


    Neutral and observing were fine, but what was with facade? And the summary was Woman Denying Her Feelings.


    Its not even Angel Denying Her Feelings, but <i>woman</i>?


    Was she bound by some kind of taboo where she had no choice but to deny her feelings?


    It would have been nice to be able to see more detailed information.


    What I found funny was that the Courageous Lion King and the Herdsman of Las Vegas were subscribed to Senia.


    They sure did it fast.


    There was also a +1 next to their names, but I didnt know who it was.


    In Eye of Perception


    Strangely enough, I got the feeling that a little worry was mixed into Senias emotions. However, that feeling disappeared before long.


    I must be mistaken.


    An Intermediate Administrator would never worry about a mere yer. Streamers and yers had a you-use-me, I-use-you rtionship. In other words, a business rtionship. It was hard to imagine that she would worry about me when I was only a business partner.


    Senia reiterated, yer Kim Hyukjin. I asked if you were listening to me or not.


    I heard it all, dont worry.


    Surprisingly, Senias face reddened. Her wingtips trembled visibly.


    I do not lower myself to worry. Dont be mistaken. yer Kim Hyukjin.


    That kind of reaction made me think she really did worry about me. But Senia continued, and I shelved that thought.


    With my authority as an Intermediate Administrator, I will issue a quest.


    In order to make the content more fun, an Intermediate Administrator could issue a quest that wouldnt alter the scenario. It wasnt that unusual an urrence.


    But the quest was a little strange. No, it was very strange.[Receiving the quest Repeat After Me.]


    Is this a real quest?


    Yes. There is no doubt.


    Repeat After Me. It was self-exnatory.


    [Repeat After Me]


    A quest from the Intermediate Administrator Senia. Exin all the information Senia gave you in detail.


    Quest reward: 300 Coins


    Giving me this kind of joke quest, was she really worried about me? Was she purposefully trying to confirm that I knew everything? Even at the cost of her precious Coins?


    Well, its easy enough.


    First of all, a Magic Camping Set is


    I already knew all there was to know about these items.


    And the Magic Campfire on and off repeatedly.


    When I finished exining all the items, I got a quest clear notice.[The quest Repeat After Me has been cleared.]


    From that, I noticed something odd. It was only one small oddity, but it didnt evade me.


    What the heck?

 Chapter 57: The Herdsman of Las Vegas (2)

    Chapter 57: The Herdsman of Las Vegas (2)


    I was able to earn 300 Coins from this joke of a quest. But that wasnt the important thing.


    I didnt say anything about Eye of Perception


    I hadnt said anything about Eye of Perceptions grade increase, but the quest was cleared anyway.


    What does this mean?


    It meant that Senia didnt know about the gift the Nameless Observer gave me.


    But why? I had no idea. Is that really how it is?


    I was probably correct. Senia didnt know that my Eye of Perceptions grade was temporarily increased.


    Satisfied? I memorized it perfectly, right?


    You did. But yer Kim Hyukjin needs to listen more carefully to my exnation. It could be directly tied to your survival.


    Isnt it fine since I memorized it?


    Yes, but


    It wasnt good to talk to a Streamer for too long. A chat between a yer and Streamer wasnt what the Guardians wanted to see. What they wanted to see was how I would clear this special hidden piece.


    Though, for someone like the Whispering Devil, Im sure theyd like to see me suffer and suffer some more.


    In any case, I moved forward. I could tell from Eye of Perception that the scale of this forest was enormous, sorge that it was difficult to determine exactly how far it extended.


    Itll take a while.


    Everything else wouldnt be much of a problem, but I was a little worried about my mom and older sister.


    But nothing wille out of worrying now.


    This was a path I chose to walk. There were no take backs, and there was no path back, anyway.


    The clue is to find the master of the forest.


    That was my only hint.


    Its evening right now.


    The flow of time existed in this hidden piece. The sun was setting, which meant that side was to the west.


    Without a dungeonpass, thats the only way for me to tell the direction.


    ording to the wisdom of the Great Explorer Jackson, when you didnt know where to go, it was most favorable to walk to the west. There wasnt anyw behind it, but in his experience, west was best.


    It shouldnt be a high difficulty dungeon that changes directions on its own.


    I decided to begin my survey after setting a point of reference. A day passed in that manner.


    * * *


    Using the camping tools the Guardians provided, I set up my campsite. The effect notifications of the Magic Campfire and Magic Camping Set came in.


    [A Safe Zone has been established.]


    [The Safe Zone will be marked in green.]


    I was inwardly satisfied. This is on the big side, too.


    I was able to set up a safe zone 5 metersrge in diameter, fairlyrge for a safe zone. When inside, I wouldnt be attacked by monsters.


    Its still the beginner period, after all.


    Among the monsters in the beginner period, there werent any crazy ones that could destroy a safe zone parameter and barge inside.


    And if there is


    Safe zone or not, I would die anyway. I hoped there wasnt a monster like that, but if there was, it was game over for me. Otherwise, this safe zone was extremely useful.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. What have you discovered while investigating this ce?


    I could tell. This wasnt her own question; she was just the mouthpiece.


    A Guardians question.


    The process of exploration itself wasnt that fun or exciting. Right now, I had to collect clues and clear the quest. I couldnt make the entire process interesting. Sometime along the way, there would be Guardians who would stop watching me.


    I should exin the most essential things.


    I understood this System well, and I was determined to use that knowledge to the utmost.


    First of all, this is a forest field.


    That was all too obvious.


    While surveying today, I saw about three different sets of w marks. They were gouged on tree trunks.


    I was faithful to the basics that the Great Explorer Jackson wrote in his basic strategy guide. My focus was on figuring out what kind of monsters existed in the dungeon, what their habits were, what the terrain was, that kind of basic information.


    Looking at the height at which the w marks were gouged and their size, theres a high chance that they belong to a cat-like beast monster.


    Senia listened to me in silence. With the upgraded Eye of Perception, I could read Senias emotions a little. Even though she didnt express it on her face, she was currently impressed. The Guardians were probably in the same boat, because by their standards, I was a beginner who hadnt even had his advancement yet.


    Theres a high chance the beasts have individual territories. Considering that I didnt see any traces of fighting, they avoid fighting amongst each other. That means theres no fighting between them at all.


    What use is that to yer Kim Hyukjin?


    If I move along the borders of their territories, where one monsters territory meets another, I can minimize the chance of getting attacked by them.


    Also, nocturnal birds of prey are flying around at night.


    They moved at night. They werent so strong they could punch through my safe zone, but they were still pretty dangerous monsters.


    Like the Red-Eyed Owl.


    The Red-Eyed Owl was only level 29, but it was a bird type monster. It also had better eyesight at night than me, so it would be much more difficult to face than regr level 29 monsters.


    Which has to mean there are creatures out there for those monsters to hunt.


    If there was a predator, there was prey. That was normally the case. Dungeons were ces ruled by thew of the jungle.


    Strangely enough, I dont see traces of prey. So what does that mean?


    I didnt know, either. But something was definitely strange.


    Senia didnt respond.


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain feels great interest in your exploration.]


    [The Whispering Devil finds your ying fun.]


    [The Courageous Lion King is bored.]


    [The Lady of the Scales expresses her admiration at yourposure.]


    [The Nameless Observer observes you without pause.]


    * * *


    Another day passed. I wasnt able to discover anything more.


    Lets not be impatient.


    It was only the third day. Dangerous dungeons often took several months to clear.


    Im strangely calm.


    Actually, if you were in an unfamiliar, potentially dangerous ce for three days all alone, it was probably normal to be scared. And yet


    Weirdly enough, Im not.


    I had no choice but to honestly acknowledge my feelings.


    No.


    It wasnt just that I wasnt scared. To be perfectly honest


    Im having fun.


    Right now, I was having a great deal of fun ying. Feeling that ying was fun was certainly influenced by ones talent. That was how many people had put it.


    I just have to hope Im not an early bloomer.


    Whether I was an early blooming yer or not would be determined by whether I could break through level 40. Normally, early bloomers stalled at around level 30-40.


    On my fourth day of exploration, I stumbled upon a burnt-down vige.


    [Entering the Razed Vige of Forest Dwellers.]


    [Entering a Safe Zone.]


    In this Razed Vige of Forest Dwellers within the special hidden field, the Forest of Unknowns, there were only scorched frames left of most of the houses. It was a designated safe zone.


    Will there be a clue here?


    I didnt know. I would only know by digging around. If there was something I could click, then I would be able to obtain a clue.


    This house is pretty intact.


    One of the houses was still standing. Even though it was a roughly made wooden house, it still looked like a house. I went inside.


    Huh?


    I instantly turned, taking out a sword from my Inventory.


    What was that just now?


    It was undoubtedly a safe zone, but I felt something strange. It was very minute, but there was definitely something there.


    Eye of Perception is telling me.


    I could feel a gaze on me.


    Somethings out there.


    But I couldnt figure out what that thing was. Something was watching me. I was barely able to capture its presence with my upgraded Eye of Perception. If I hadnt gotten the upgrade, I wouldnt have been able to feel it at all.


    Even though this is a safe zone.


    It seemed I had to keep my guard up. I had a bad feeling, somehow.


    Thats clickable.


    I saw a scorched set of drawers that was clickable. When I clicked it with my gaze, the drawer automatically opened, revealing a letter within.[Letter of the Forest Dwellers Chief acquired.]


    I examined the letter.<blockquote>


    Dear Old Man Lepry,


    This is a letter sent from the westernmost vige Dott to the easternmost vige Dante. Old Man Lepry. Its already over for us. The Master of the Forest is enraged. They have unleashed their fury on us. There is no way for us to avoid their wrath. I hope that you</blockquote>


    I couldnt read the rest because the letter was partly burnt.


    So the setting is that the Master of the Forest is enraged, and because of that, this ce was burnt down?


    That was definitely a usible setting. I had to use this letter as aunchpad to find more clues and meet that Master of the Forest.


    The letter says this is the westernmost vige, Dott.


    Which meant that if I moved eastward, I would find a vige to the far east.


    What do you intend on doing? Will you go eastward?


    No.


    The letter said this was the westernmost vige. There was a high chance that I was almost at the western end of this Forest of Unknowns. It could be helpful to know what was at the end of this field.


    Ill explore the west side a little more before moving east. That could very well be the more efficient strategy.


    Understood.


    I wasnt able to get any additional information from the Razed Vige of Forest Dwellers. I headed west some more.


    At some point, I was blocked by a transparent wall.[You cannot go any further.]


    The field, a dense forest, continued before my eyes. But I couldnt go past this wall.


    Theres a chance this is the end of the field.


    Or


    It could also be set to be traversable only after satisfying a special condition.


    I thought that thetter was more likely, because I could physically see more of the field.


    Not much came of that.


    Now that I had checked, I had to turn to the east. A dungeon clear carried out without knowing the strategy was a little boring. Like I first expected, the beast monsters had some sort of agreement and didnt leave their territories, and as a result, I was able to explore without getting attacked.


    There might be something if I go to the east.


    It might be a little boring, but it couldnt be helped. For the Guardians, this might just be a game or amusement, but for me, this was a matter of life and death. Even when challenging the unknown, it was best to do it as safely as possible.


    That faint gaze I felt in the vige


    Very asionally, I felt that gaze again. Something I couldnt identify in the least was watching me. It didnt look like they were going to attack me right away, but it weighed heavily on me and was part of why I couldnt be careless here.


    But just then, I heard a new notice.[The Herdsman of Las Vegas offers you a proposal.]


    This notice ushered the scenario into a new phase.

 Chapter 58: Elf in the Well

    Chapter 58: Elf in the Well[The Herdsman of Las Vegas offers you a proposal.]


    I knew about the Herdsman of Las Vegas. Other than being the Guardian of Michelle, the Gold Pyramid, the Herdsman of Las Vegas was a Guardian who greatly enjoyed gambling.


    I heard he made a lot of cracked wagers.


    Attractive proposals that a yer would be hard-pressed to resist.


    But the only one who survived that wager and seeded was Michelle.


    That was why his only sessful contractee was Michelle.


    It will definitely be an appealing, hard-to-resist proposal.


    That proposal unfolded.[If you clear the special hidden piece, the Unknown Forest, within 3 days, he will grant you 100,000 Coins.]


    Such a massive quantity of Coins would make even a dead man perk up. Guardian sponsorships were limited to 100, 200, or maybe 300 Coins, at most. But now, he was offering a whopping 100,000 Coins. In the yer world, it was pretty much like a lottery jackpot.[ept the quest Clear within 3 days?]


    Upon closer inspection, it was actually a little fraudulent. He only waved the sweet reward I would get upon seeding and didnt tell me what the penalty would be if I failed. Youd be setting yourself up for bankruptcy if you were blinded by that 100,000 Coin sum.


    Senia. What happens if I fail this quest?


    I will share the quest information at the yers request.


    For some reason, I had the feeling that Senia was a little relieved.


    If you cannot clear within three days


    Senias wingtips trembled, something that seemed to happen an awful lot these days.


    Whats making her act like that? I wondered what was making her so shocked.


    Then when it bes time to choose a Guardian, you must unconditionally choose the Herdsman of Las Vegas as your contracted Guardian.


    For a moment, I was also rendered speechless.


    <i>Thats </i>the penalty? Just that?


    A staggering 100,000 Coins was on the line.


    The penalty is only that?


    It was an enormous reward that could never have existed in the beginner period, and even if it did, it probably shouldnt. But the penalty was merely choose me.


    Actually, someone on the level of the Herdsman of Las Vegas wouldnt be a bad choice.


    He was the Guardian of that famous Gold Pyramid, Michelle, wasnt he? A Guardian like the Herdsman of Las Vegas would cement a foundation that would potentially allow me to grow into the worlds top Ranker. The scale of the current gamble was proof of that. He was a dependable Guardian who was willing to throw himself into developing a yer once he made up his mind to do so.


    Three days.


    yer Kim Hyukjin, will you ept the quest? asked Senia.


    I contemted for a moment.


    The Herdsman of Las Vegas.


    He was a Guardian who didnt skimp on supporting the yer he treasured. I thought about it a little more. But even after thinking about it some more, my answer was the same.


    No. I cannot ept this quest.[The Herdsman of Las Vegas is curious about what you are thinking.]


    The Herdsman of Las Vegas didnt express disappointment, only his curiosity. He was definitely no petty bastard.


    As expressionless as ever, Senia said, May I ask why?


    Because the Herdsman of Las Vegas was a Guardian who loved gambling to an excessive degree. Michelle was lucky enough to seed such a gamble, but I wasnt the type to enjoy gambling.


    More than anything, I


    Had no need to gamble. With my knowledge of the future, I <i>was </i>able to invest in the unlikely. But when it came to things that werent just unlikely, but almost impossible, there was no need to gamble on that low, low chance of things working out.


    Its more than enough to just invest.


    With that in mind, taking on a high risk, high return gamble wasnt very wise.


    So the question was, how should I put it? I had to express my thoughts in a way that least offended a so-called named Guardian like the Herdsman of Las Vegas. At the same time, I had to be able to win over other Guardians who were currently watching this all unfold very intently.


    cing a bet is something one does when you have a chance of victory.


    Was the proposal made by the Herdsman of Las Vegas one that was impossible toplete?


    No. Thats not the case.


    Clearing within three days? It was possible.


    But I cant orchestrate the probability. At least not in the current field.


    I stillcked too much information.


    I want to be the one who orchestrates the probability and makes a situation where I can win. Only idiots would let themselves be blinded by the tantalizing reward and bet without any information.


    It was the kind of disposition the Herdsman of Las Vegas liked. Michelle had also said something like this. Gambling was a fight of probability, but she, the yer, would create that probability so that she would have a slightly higher chance to seed. She said people who bet without preparation were idiots.


    Thats why I refused. A gamble entrusted to luck alone is no different from throwing the game.


    I didnt know if that answer would satisfy the Herdsman. Notices came in.


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas is satisfied by your response.]


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas respects your thinking.]


    Other notices came in as well.[A great number of anonymous Guardians are impressed by your response.]


    Even though they saw the same situation and heard the same things, the reactions of the Guardians were mixed.[A great number of anonymous Guardians ridicule you.]


    I could understand why they would ridicule me. I was still only level 29. To them, I was like a flickering candlelight they could extinguish with a single puff of their lips. Someone so weak refused the proposal of the Herdsman of Las Vegas of all Guardians, saying they would bet while orchestrating the probability. They were big words spoken with a great deal of bravado.


    Laugh all you want.


    The day when the Guardians could no longer ridicule me woulde. I would see to that.


    * * *


    I moved east. Starting from the westernmost vige, which the letter had called Dott, I went to Dante in the east.


    While doing so, I had to prepare food.


    <i>Splurt!</i>


    I jumped on the back of a wild boar as big as me and thrust my dagger.


    <i>Squeaaaaal!</i>


    The boars name was Fanged Boar. It was about level 25, but it had a pretty vtile temperament.


    [Fanged Boar has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [17 Coins acquired.]


    It gave way less Coins than other monsters of the same level, but it had its own virtues that made it worth killing.[Fruit Bundle acquired.]


    I had to admit it was a little strange. I had never heard of Fanged Boars dropping Fruit Bundles. Normally, they didnt.


    Maybe its a hidden piece put in to allow a yer to survive?


    I brushed it aside for now, but it was a bit strange. In any case, I hunted a few more Fanged Boars.[Fruit Bundle acquired.]


    In the process, I was able to procure a little more information.


    Theyre not wary of their surroundings.


    Normally, Fanged Boars were monsters that were watchful of their surroundings, especially if there were beast monsters in the vicinity.


    From the traces left on the trees, there are definitely beast monsters around here.


    But despite that, these boars werent wary. That meant the beast monsters were weak, or that they didnt attack Fanged Boars.


    Those traces are definitely from a Red Tiger. There are Red Tigers around, but they dont attack the Fanged Boars?


    That was indeed very peculiar. The weird gaze I could feel with Eye of Perception also bothered me. It could even be that the Master of the Forest was watching me right now.


    Thats


    There was no doubt about it. As I was walking along the forest floor, I discovered a trap made of rope, a snare designed to catch animals using a rope and. It was enchanted with very basic capture magic.


    What?


    In this field, in which a very small vige of forest dwellers existed, there was an <i>artifact?</i> And an enchanted artifact, no less?


    They used an artifact to hunt animals? As basic as the magic was, enchanted items were expensive. It was absolutely not an item a tiny vige in a forest would use.


    Somethings going on.


    As I thought, there was more to this ce than the eye suggested. I couldnt say what exactly it was, but it was definitely strange. There was a high chance I was missing something right now.


    I stowed the snare in my Inventory. Then, I continued to move east, and eventually, I found the easternmost vige, Dante.


    The same notices I had heard in the westernmost vige came in.


    [Entering the Razed Vige 2 of Forest Dwellers.]


    [Entering a Safe Zone.]


    Ibed through the vige. Like the other vige, there was a fairly intact shack with a clickable set of drawers inside. When I opened it, I found a piece of paper with words on it, just like before.Dear Old Man Dudia,


    This is a letter sent from the easternmost vige Dante to the westernmost vige Dott. Old Man Dudia. We need a sacrifice. The Master of the Forest demanded an offering from us. But you know as well as me. The restriction of this forest. So I am very troubled. Oh, right. The offering for the Master of the Forest is


    The restriction of the forest?


    I had no idea what that could be.


    An offering for the Master of the Forest


    What I could be sure of was that this ce had some kind of restriction, had a Master of the Forest, and the vigers needed an offering for the Master of the Forest.


    If you cant make an offering to the Master of the Forest


    It might be that I would also be annihted, like these vigers. Then where in the world was I supposed to find the Master of the Forest? I left the shack and walked around the vige. In this vige reduced to ruins, there were only burned down shacks


    and a well in the center of the vige.


    Huh?


    Eye of Perception told me that something was in the well. I approached it. The inside was dark, and I couldnt see anything.


    Someones inside.


    They were barely breathing, their presence so faint that they could die at any moment.


    Its probably not a yer.


    Which meant it was an NPC. An NPC that might give me a huge hint to clearing this ce.


    I have to take them out.


    ording to what I felt through Eye of Perception, the person inside the well was one hair away from death. There was no time to waste.


    I can do it.


    My careful exploration on the way here was a big help. I thought this rope trap enchanted with capture magic was strange. For such an out-of-ce object to exist here meant that it would be helpful in clearing the dungeon. It was good Id surveyed my surroundings thoroughly, even though that was a little more time-consuming.[Use the Snare?]


    I tossed the enchanted snare into the well.[Capture was sessful.]


    I hauled up the snare. Eye of Perception told me it was unmistakably a person. Before long, I saw her a woman with extremely long hair and clothing that had be rags. She was markedly emaciated, like she hadnt eaten in a long time. For now, I poured a Constitution Potion and Cure Potion into her mouth.

 Chapter 59: Elf in the Well (2)

    Chapter 59: Elf in the Well (2)


    The woman who absorbed the potion recovered her vitality remarkably quickly. Her emaciated body of just skin and bones suddenly grew flesh at a speed at which growing really was the right word to describe it. Her crumbly, dull hairpletely fell out, reced in moments by glossy, green-colored hair.


    As she regained consciousness, a breeze carrying a refreshing arboreal scent blew over.


    Shes an elf?


    In conclusion, the woman I saved was an elf.


    The elves


    They were a race with exceptional curing and recovery abilities, one that loved nature and had very beautiful appearances. Among their kind, Oak Elves were famous for adhering to unconditional nonviolence.


    Later, therell be people who abuse that trait of theirs.


    For example, people like that notorious ve trader Seo Jun.


    In any case, I had just saved an elf. I had seen them often on Youtube, as their beauty was renowned and there were a lot of streamers who exclusively filmed elves.


    Seeing one in person


    The phrase jaw-dropping beauty seemed a little exaggerated to me.


    Is it because Senia is next to me?


    I couldnt see her right now, but maybe I wasnt that blown away by the elfs beauty because I was already used to Senias appearance. It kind of just felt like my mind recognized the elf as an incredible beauty, but that was it. Just ah, shes super pretty.


    Thanks to Eye of Perceptions temporary upgrade, I was able to read the elfs status.


    [NPC]


    Name: Lindia


    Age: 91


    Level: ?


    Race: Oak Elf


    State: Confused / Hungry / Scared


    Summary: Confused Pacifist<ul><li>Level cannot be determined.</li><li>Because Eye of Perception''s proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    Thank you for saving me.


    That was how our conversation began. As per usual, conversations with NPCs who gave quests or clues began with greetings. Afterwards, youd get into the nitty gritty, like asking them why they were here or if they knew something that could be of help. It was pretty much an official format, so I was able to speak to her without much difficulty.


    You seem to be a resident of this vige. And it seems that you have suffered the wrath of the Master of the Forest.


    She nodded. She said that she fled the Master of the Forest by jumping into the well and was barely able to survive. We talked for a while, and in the end, the answer was this.


    You make an offering to the Master of the Forest.


    An offering?


    Yes.


    It had to be the same offering that showed up in the letter.


    What needs to be offered?


    Well Lindia looked embarrassed.


    You dont know what the offering is, I see.


    Yes. I really cannot figure out what it could be. If I knew I would have offered it at the altar to the south


    I at least found out that there was an altar to the south.


    I will soon return to natures embrace.


    In our words, so human words, she was saying she would die. From what Lindia was saying, she hadntpletely recovered, but had regained her strength for a brief moment.


    Is that so?


    Yes. I will return to the embrace of the Great Mother who gave birth to me. Do not be rmed. I will turn to dust and be nutrients for the oaks.


    The sight of the elf sping her hands at her chest was the very picture of a goddess who loved the forest.


    I see.


    However, there was more to this woman than her goddess-like exterior suggested. The forest scent tickling my nose wasnt as fresh-smelling as before.


    But you know, I started to say.


    I became certain of it after talking to the elf.


    Can you really return to the oaks?


    I said one more thing.


    You fake.


    * * *


    From the very first moment I entered this forest, the Forest of Unknowns, there was something off about it.


    There are traces of predators, yet no traces of prey being caught.


    The boars also acted like they had never been hunted before.


    And they dont fight for territory like beast monsters usually do.


    Also, I could hear nocturnal birds of prey at night, but there werent actually any monsters that they could catch. Something was weird about this ecosystem.


    And Fanged Boars dont drop Fruit Bundles out of nowhere.


    That wasnt all.


    Theres even an enchanted artifact in a ce like this.


    The System tended to put quite a lot of importance on fundamental settings and realistic situations. Of course, there were also scenarios that were random and came out of left field, but those wouldnt appear in the beginner period.


    And theres an elf here?


    It was true that an elfs ability to recover was unrivaled, but even an elf couldnt recover so quickly from just a beginner recovery potion.


    Well, lets just let a hundred inconsistencies slide and say theres really an elf here.


    However


    Why did you say you were a resident of this vige?


    Elves didnt harm trees. They lived for the trees and would never even dream of putting a saw to a tree. So if elves were to live in this vige, there shouldnt be any huts. But this vige had huts. That was why I purposefully asked her if she was a resident of this vige.


    Can an elf build and live in a hut?


    From the first point to thest, it was all strange. If you looked at it closely, there were many inconsistencies, ones that strayed far, far away from a realistic situation.


    I stared at the elf, who was turning to dust and disappearing.


    Lindia the elf looked at me with an expression of utter confusion. I have no idea what you are talking about. Then, she pleaded, Make an offering to the Master of the Forest. The altar is to the far south.


    From her expression and attitude, she looked sincere.


    She probably is sincere.


    She was probably set to be that way. Lindia was an NPC created to ry this information. In other words, she wasnt a real Oak Elf, but a fake created in a form that was suitably appropriate for this special hidden field, the Forest of Unknowns.


    What I read with Eye of Perception was probably just Lindias set values.


    Lindia, who believed she was an elf, turned to dust and disappeared. I chuckled.


    Its true that Oak Elves turn to dust and disappear.


    But the execution was a little sloppy.


    A green-colored wind is supposed to blow at the same time.


    I turned around and tried looking around me, but I didnt find anything. Eye of Perception didnt pick up anything, either.


    Its strange.


    Id been in a forest the entire time.


    Why was there a burst of forest scent just because an elf regained consciousness?


    Elves didnt generate bursts of forest scent. It was just that their bodies carried the strong scent of the forest in which they lived. Focusing on the details, something was definitely off.


    Doesnt it feel way too deliberate?


    I assembled all the pieces of the puzzle. The field I was standing in right now, this Forest of Unknowns, was a fake. It was a fake world sloppily created by someones hand. A fake created with little attention to detail by someone who had only experienced the world through books.


    That feeling of someone staring at me all this time


    That, too, could be exined. If this was an artificially created fake field, there had to be someone managing it, and that someone had to be the person staring at me.


    It bothers me.


    [You have recognized the magic effect of the Forest of Unknowns.]


    [Eye of Perception has begun to resist the magic effect.]


    I was suddenly struck with the feeling that all the strength was leaving my body.


    If they can make a fake of such enormous scale, then


    Such a feat would require a huge amount of magic power. That meant that whoever it was that made this fake world, they werent an easy opponent.


    Ugh!


    I hastily used the recovery potion Id bound to a slot. It felt like every drop of energy in my body was being sucked away. My head began to throb with a terrible headache.


    [Eye of Perception has begun to determine the truth.]


    [Eye of Perception has begun to gaze at a distortion.]


    Gugh!


    Blood surged from my mouth. It felt like Icked the strength to break this special space.


    No.


    I could do it. There were many things I wanted to do. I was going to live proudly, with my head held up high. I wouldnt fall down here to something of this level.[Eye of Perception reacts to the yers strong will.]


    It felt like my eyes would burst, like every blood vessel was popping. I could tell.


    If Im unable to break this fake right now I will die.


    There was another possibility.


    Or Ill have to live like this fake elf, believing the fake is real in this fake world.


    I might even be an NPC who would give a fake quest to the next yer who stumbled upon this ce. I couldnt let that happen. I had to live in the real world, not a fake one.


    Break it!


    I clenched my teeth.


    Even this fake has to have its limit.


    The person who created this ce probably didnt want to expose their limits. That was why they put easternmost and westernmost on the letters. It was to discourage anyone from going any further, where they would see the end of the field.


    Theyre definitely listening to my words.


    Making them falter, no matter how little, was good for me. My eyes felt like they were exploding, my head felt like it would crack open and my whole body felt like it was crumbling apart, but I endured the intense pain and smiled, looking as rxed as possible.


    This fake of yours that has such an obvious limit, I will break it for you right now.


    [Eye of Perception has begun to crush the magic effect.]


    [The condition to destroy the Forest of Unknowns has been satisfied.]


    [The Forest of Unknowns has begun to be destroyed.]


    I lost consciousness.


    * * *


    After who knows how long, I opened my eyes.


    Im alive.


    It looked like I was still in the Forest of Unknowns. However, I could feel it with certainty.


    The range has be much, much smaller.


    Originally, this forest was so enormous and wide that Eye of Perception couldnt even tell me howrge it was. But now, it was as small as the Vige of Forest Dwellers. It felt like a garden cultivated to look like a very small forest.


    Eye of Perception picked up somethings presence. It wasnt a person.


    Theres something there.


    However, I didnt pay attention to whatever it was right away. There was something more important I had to do.


    I destroyed the fake.


    Honestly, it had been pretty dicey for me, but in any case, I destroyed it.


    But you know


    <i>Youre listening, right? Master of the Forest.</i>


    No matter how you think about it, you shouldnt be able to make such a huge field with your true ability alone.


    If they were capable of that, they would have made the field with greater attention to detail. This was merely a shoddy imitation.


    Which means


    It wouldnt take long to explore this small space.


    You must have gotten help from something.


    For example


    Like an artifact that can dramatically increase your magic power.


    Items like that were sold at extremely high prices. Actually, they were so rare they werent even sold on the market. When they did asionally pop up, they were artifacts that could only be used one or two times at most.


    I wonder where such an artifact might be?


    It was said that misfortune often turns into a blessing. After figuring out everything about this field, I could see what it was that I had to get here. I also knew it was an extremely valuable treasure, one that truly befitted a special hidden field found in a hidden field.


    But huh, I can see it very clearly, you know?


    I moved forward. As I did so, it appeared.

 Chapter 60: The Final Puzzle

    Chapter 60: The Final Puzzle


    There was a website where countless people, starting with the Great Explorer Jackson, shared information they possessed. It was called ypedia, and it was an open-coboration encyclopedia site like Wikipedia.


    The habits and unique traits of each monster were naturally important subject matter for civil service students to study, and that was also a field I had a personal interest in.


    <i>The Thin Hobgoblin is a spirit monster that is capable of growth. This growth-type monster that has only been found a few times across all the servers experiences a total of three stages of evolution.</i>


    Three stages of evolution: Thin Hobgoblin. Chubby Hobgoblin. And finally, Fat Hobgoblin.


    This monster with three evolution stages was considered fairly important.


    It appeared a total of four times, and only in Italy.


    The Fat Hobgoblin appeared for the first time in Italy, where 400 people were eaten by it. The Fat Hobgoblins second name was Maneating Hobgoblin.


    <i>At the first and second stages, it is simply a slightly dangerous monster that enjoys ying pranks. It is skilled at apparition or illusion magic. In addition, it excels at creating spatial distortions and likes to harass yers.</i>


    The monster that appeared before my eyes was a Thin Hobgoblin.


    <i>Once its true form is discovered, the Thin Hobgoblin is not all that difficult to defeat.</i>


    And that was because


    When it panics, its intelligence drops to that of a young childs.


    They were skilled in apparition or illusion magic and had an uncanny ability to create spatial distortions. When I first realized that this ce was a fake, the first monster that came to mind was this Thin Hobgoblin.


    Even for a special hidden piece, a Fat Hobgoblin wouldnt show up.


    Special hidden piece or not, this dungeon was still generated from the beginner-grade Seoul Station Dungeon. If a Fat Hobgoblin showed up here, I would have to find some way to escape, strategies or whatever be damned, because that would be the only way I could survive.


    No. I would die without even being able to escape.


    Such a monster was impossible to oppose with my current abilities. However, the monster that appeared before my eyes was a Thin Hobgoblin, a humanoid monster with blue skin. It was generally thin, but had a protruding belly like ET.


    That tiny horn on its head is the weak point.


    It had a head of dry and brittle, brown hair. Underneath was one big eye. It didnt have a nose or ears, but had a mouth even bigger than its single eye.


    The average level is around 31.Thin Hobgoblin LVL ?


    Even considering that this was a hidden field, its level shouldnt exceed 35. My current level was 29, and I had far better stats than other yers. It wouldnt be hard to fight a single Thin Hobgoblin. I just had to watch out for one attack.


    The Thin Hobgoblin that had revealed itself yelled, Dont lie!


    I grinned. What are you saying I lied about?


    Theres no way a mere human can figure out where my treasure is.


    The treasure the hobgoblin was referring to was a mana crystal. The one this Thin Hobgoblin was using was specifically an amplification mana crystal.


    Hmm. Is that really so?


    I took one step closer to the Thin Hobgoblin. As expected for a monster that could talk, I was able to read its state with Eye of Perception.State: Panicked / Doubtful / Denial


    When Thin Hobgoblins panicked, they would be as smart as a young kid. This one was still immature and far from bing a Fat Hobgoblin. If I couldnt face an opponent this easy, I would be putting the regressor name to shame.


    But its very clear to my eyes.


    I pointed in the direction of the Thin Hobgoblin.


    N-No! It cant be.


    The hobgoblin stumbled three steps backwards. I took one step forward, but the hobgoblin didnt move.


    It screamed frantically at me. You lying conman! If youe any closer, Ill cut out your tongue!


    Thanks to its actions, I figured it out.


    So thats where the mana crystal is.


    For a Thin Hobgoblin to make a field of such scale, one as big as the Forest of Unknowns, it would require a very high-quality mana crystal. Finding the location where it was hidden was, of course, impossible with my abilities alone. Even though my Eye of Perception was upgraded, it couldnt detect the exact location.


    <i>Thin Hobgoblins tend to have an obsession over things they consider their treasures. Sometimes, that can be a worthless piece of shit, and sometimes, it can be a truly valuable gem. The yer must judge which of the two the treasure is based on the situation.</i>


    And I had made my judgmentthere, right under the hobgoblins feet, was an amplification mana crystal.


    Of course I dont know.


    I-I knew it!


    At that moment, I used the naive hobgoblins relief as an opening to use sh Step. There was no way a hobgoblin that wasnt even a Chubby Hobgoblin would be able to read sh Steps movements.


    I can see it.


    I saw its little horn. That was the monsters weak point. I couldnt be slow to attack. If it detected danger, the hobgoblin would hide its horn under its skin, making it harder to defeat.


    H-Huh?


    I saw the Thin Hobgoblins body instantly stiffen. Its muscles went rigid, freezing the hobgoblin in ce for the slightest moment. As fleeting as the moment was, it was more than enough time for me. Holding the dagger well-suited for quick attacks, I made a powerful vertical stab.[Using the special skill Excellent Strike.]


    An additional 20% damage, plus[Critical hit!]


    This time, I was lucky andnded a critical hit. The Thin Hobgoblin and I werent that far apart in level. If you took my stats into consideration, you could even say I was stronger than the Thin Hobgoblin.


    On top of that, I hit a weak point.


    And it was even a critical hit.


    Uwagh!


    With a short cry, the Thin Hobgoblin fell onto its butt and jumped back onto its feet.


    Y-You fucking dickhead!!! squealed the Thin Hobgoblin.


    This. I just had to get past this crisis. The Thin Hobgoblin was probably channeling the mana crystal right now. It would be difficult for me to handle a st from an amplification mana crystal capable of creating a field of this size.


    I have to believe in it. The Great Orc Warrior set.


    I had three Great Orc Warrior items on me.


    [Great Orc Warriors Iron Armor.]


    [Great Orc Warriors Leather Shoes.]


    [Great Orc Warriors Leather Pants.]


    Of course, I had them all equipped, which triggered a partial set effect.Partial Set Effect: Defends against a physical attack the wearer cannot handle, limited to once per day. However, the attacker''s level must not exceed level 30. If their level exceeds 30, a damage reduction effect will be triggered depending on the attacks power.


    A huge club was formed above my head.


    Its huge!


    It looked to be at least five metersrge. This huge club was the lethal move the Thin Hobgoblin could use only one time.


    Vroom, vroom! Hobgoblin Club!


    The shadow of the hobgoblin club covered my head.


    I cant dodge anyway.


    It was a special attack I couldnt dodge with my current physical abilities. Even if I tried, I would still get hit. I had no choice but to defend.


    While getting hit Ill also attack.


    I would believe in the power of the Great Orc Warrior set while unleashing a blow of my own, something like cutting off an arm to save the body.


    Itsing down!


    I clenched my teeth. It was possible there would be some momentary pain.


    <i>Thud!</i>


    From my head to my toes, I felt a massive impact.


    [Registering unmanageable damage.]


    [Damage is negated once per day.]


    There was an impact, but I didnt take any damage from it. I just recognized mentally that I was attacked.


    If you use a technique this big youll leave an opening.


    I wouldnt miss it. I switched from my dagger to the sword. For this humanoid monster, even though their horn was their biggest weak point, the throat and heart were also significant weak points.


    The heart.


    It wasnt hard to hunt a Hobgoblin that had lost its cool.


    * * *


    [Thin Hobgoblin has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [42 Coins acquired.]


    Since I killed a hobgoblin, I was hoping that something like a Spirit Art Club, a pretty pricey item, would drop.


    Darn, it didnt drop.


    Unfortunately, it didnt drop. The notices continued.


    [The Forest of Unknowns distortion has been recognized.]


    [The hobgoblin controlling the Forest of Unknowns distortion has been eliminated.]


    [The clear condition of the Forest of Unknowns has been satisfied.]


    I satisfied the clear conditions of the special hidden piece generated within the Seoul Station Dungeons hidden piece.


    I cant be sent outside.


    Since I cleared the Forest of Unknowns, I would be kicked out of this ce after the rewards were distributed.


    I have to find the mana crystal.


    I pushed aside the hobgoblins body and set to digging. The Item Shop had most things, but strangely enough, it didnt sell a shovel. In the end, I had to dig with my hands.[Distributing the clear rewards for the Forest of Unknowns.]


    Once the rewards were fully distributed, I would be sent out.


    Before that happens, quick!


    An amplification mana crystal that could create a field of this scale would be worth at least $10 million in just three years. I had to find it.


    My hands didnt stop moving. It wouldve been really nice if I had a digging skill or something like that.


    [500 Coins acquired.]


    [1 level up point acquired.]


    [One new trait for Eye of Perception has been added.]


    [Hobgoblin Perfume acquired.]


    I was so busy looking for the mana crystal that would be $10 million in three years that my ears didnt even register the notices.


    Where is it?


    Even after digging what appeared to be twenty centimetres into the ground with my bare hands, I couldnt see it.


    It shouldnt be buried any deeper than this.


    If the mana crystal was buried too deep, its power would be greatly weakened. No matter how outstanding the amplification mana crystal was, the hobgoblin wouldnt have buried it this deep.


    I messed up somewhere.


    Digging any further was a wasted effort. The tips of my fingers were bleeding, but I didnt give a damn. I straightened, looking around.


    What am I missing?


    And then, I realized something.


    It definitely said the clear conditions were satisfied yet Im still in the dungeon.


    There wasnt even a remaining time indicator. That meant there had to be something else here.


    An exitless dungeon?


    A dungeon without an exit, one you couldnt leave even after satisfying the clear conditions. There was no way such a ridiculously difficult dungeon would have appeared already. I had to believe that.


    Exitless dungeons could only be forcibly pried open by magic ss Rankers seven yearster.


    If this ce really was an exitless dungeon, I would either die of starvation, loneliness, or wait for seven years. In any case, it would definitely be a shit situation.


    What am I missing?


    There had to be something.


    Huh?


    Some distance in front of me, I saw something on the ground.


    Whats that?


    Something very small with four limbs was standing on the ground like a person and staring at me.


    A squirrel?


    It was a squirrel, but the expression on its face was almost humanlike. The squirrel was looking at me with what I could swear was a pompous expression,ughing at me like a human.


    Was there ever a squirrel like that?


    It didnt appear to be a monster, at least, and it was obviously not an NPC. Even for a person who had knowledge of the future, this squirrel was an unfamiliar existence.


    Seeing as Senia hasnt appeared, its not a bug.


    The squirrel stood on two legs and held out an arm(?) to me, wearing an expression of I get it, so hand it over.


    Is it asking me to give it something?


    The squirrel spread out its other palm. When it did so, a huge mana crystal the size of a watermelon appeared over its tiny palm.


    The squirrels using magic?


    It had an Inventory, or was using summoning magic. Or maybe it had something like its own innate squirrel ability. It was definitely no ordinary squirrel.


    It finally struck me.


    That is the final puzzle of this ce.


    And I had the feeling I could solve that puzzle.

 Chapter 61: The Final Puzzle (2)

    Chapter 61: The Final Puzzle (2)


    That is the final puzzle of this ce.


    I walked to the magic-using, anything-but-ordinary squirrel. It didnt run away and simply watched mee with a self-confident expression.


    You want to make a trade with me, right?


    The squirrel appeared to understand me. It nodded. Even I had no idea what this squirrel was.[Eye of Perceptions proficiency is too low to identify the target.]


    However, there was no mistake that it wanted to trade with me.


    Rather than giving it what it wants right away


    Lighting a slight fire up its butt wasnt too bad an idea.


    Could this be what you want?


    The item I pulled out was none other than ck Yaks Lean Meat.


    The squirrel stomped in ce in anger. Of course, it was a squirrel, so its stomps didnt produce any vibrations whatsoever.


    I heard a notice.


    [The Merchant of Venice is watching you.]


    Well, look who we have here.


    Looks like a lot of Guardians who would normally be in the Italian server are pretty interested.


    The Merchant of Venice was a very prominent Guardian from Italy, the Guardian of a yer called the Queen of Water, Elliana.


    The Merchant of Venice, huh.


    I studied civil service, so I knew more about domestic Guardians than foreign ones. However, I still knew the basic disposition and traits of foreign server Guardians.


    Hes probably watching to see how I can work this trade in my favor.


    The Merchant of Venice was a Guardian who believed that being a sessful negotiator and bargainer was a kind of achievement. The Queen of Water Elliana was not only an outstanding magician, but also a genius atmerce. It was often said as a joke that she held 30% of Italys GDP.


    The Merchant of Venice made an appearance at the negotiation table that held a mere squirrel.


    The special hidden field in the Seoul Station Dungeon 2nd underground floor was indeed a very unique ce.


    Then is it maybe this?


    I pulled out the Hobgoblin Perfume I just acquired, somethingpletely useless for a squirrel. The squirrel shook its head roughly. It raised a cotton ball fist, upon which a yellow number popped up next to it.


    1?


    It was trying to express itself with magic. The number one. It was probably saying that this was myst chance. I grinned.


    Ah I honestly think this is a loss for me. I dithered and dallied. The yellow number next to the squirrels fist grew bigger.


    [1!]


    It was like the squirrel was yelling, This is yourst chance! Yourst, I said! Hurry! Hurry and gimme what I want! From the way it folded its arms and huffed at me, I apparently had something it really, really wanted.


    Think about it. Youve gotta admit, it was really difficult for me to get something this special.[Taking out a strawberry from the Fruit Bundle.]


    I picked up a strawberry from the Fruit Bundle safely stored in my Inventory. The squirrels eyes widened. The number changed from 1 to !. For most monsters, a ! meant that you had properly pulled their aggro.[Taking out a banana from the Fruit Bundle.]


    Ah. I really hate to let this stuff go, since its so good. And I cant even eat the thing youre offering, lets be honest.[Taking out a clementine from the Fruit Bundle.]


    This is also really delicious[Taking out a blueberry from the Fruit Bundle.]


    The squirrel hopped in ce. The yellow ! mark changed to a red !!.


    Its eyes were glued to the fruits in my hands. Where the fruits went, the squirrels gaze dazedly followed.


    But if you really want them guess I have no choice. Wanna trade?


    The squirrel nodded vigorously. It was rubbing its palms. The self-confidence and arrogance Id seen at first was gone.


    Cant be helped, I guess. Alright. Lets trade.


    It was a ridiculous trade, but one that couldnt be seen as just ridiculous.


    Theres definitely something about this ce.


    It wasnt like the Shot Table Dungeon the Giant of the Sunset created to nurture Choi Sung-gu. It wasnt a ce made by some Guardian by investing Coins, but a real hidden field existing within the System itself.


    A Thin Hobgoblin coincidentally made Fruit Bundles in a ce like this?


    Fanged Boars dropped Fruit Bundles, which had made me a little more sure that this was a fabricated space.


    Was that really a coincidence?


    There was a very high chance it wasnt. Disguising the Fruit Bundles as a mistake of the Thin Hobgoblin was a deliberate, intricate trick yed by the System. If I hadnt acquired this Fruit Bundle or had already eaten it, it was possible I wouldnt be having this trade with the squirrel right now.


    If I wasnt able to trade with the squirrel I probably wouldnt have been able to get out of here.


    The chance of that was very high.


    I hope that this is the key to the exit.


    I heard a notice.[Squirrel proposes a trade.]


    A trade window opened up.


    Eh?


    It was my first time seeing a squirrel that could activate a trade window. To be fair, it was also my first time seeing a squirrel that could use magic, so this much was par for the course.


    [Tradeplete.]


    [Amplification Mana Crystal acquired.]


    The trade waspleted nice and sure with a trade window.


    [Amplification Mana Crystal]


    A mana crystal that amplifies magic power.


    Grade: Unique


    Amplification value: ?


    Remaining uses: 2/3


    The amplification value was marked as ?, which meant it was an item of a level that I couldnt fully grasp at my current level.


    It also has two uses left.


    I obtained an item that would be worth $10 million in three years. My goal for three yearster was originally $1 million, but now, I had $10 million.


    The Merchant of Venice seemed satisfied by my trade as well.


    [The Merchant of Venice is greatly satisfied by your trade.]


    [The Merchant of Venice has decided to watch your progress.]


    On top of that, they gave me a special item.


    [The Merchant of Venice has gifted you a Forced Exchange Scroll.]


    * * *


    * * *


    Senia, who had been watching from start to finish, let out a long breath.


    He finally did it.


    She thought that Kim Hyukjin would be able to do it somehow, and he really did it. The Guardians were seriously making a ton of noise right now. The Guardians who had revealed their True Names were doing their best to maintain their silence, but they had no intention of leaving her channel, and the anonymous Guardians were sending so many messages it was hard to read them all.


    Isnt he level 29 right now?


    Hes 29, but I think he got a level up point?


    What? Then hes level 30?


    It was an issue of huge importance for the Guardians in the Korean server. Level 30. The point at which a yer chose their exclusive Guardian. Even out of all the yers in Korea, Hyukjins ying was obviously exceptional. He was showing them a y that was impossible to rece, a y of apletely different level.


    Well only know the exact details after the Intermediate Administrator checks.


    Hurry and tell us what exactly his rewards are!


    While the rabble were making a fuss, the Herdsman of Las Vegas sent Senia a 1,000 Coin sponsorship. He was demanding one thing from herhe wanted her to publicize what rewards Hyukjin got.


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas has sent the Intermediate Administrator a 1,000 Coin sponsorship.]


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas has gifted the Intermediate Administrator a Pause.]


    Thanks to that, Senia was once again able to use the pricey Pause.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. May I ask a few questions?


    * * *


    When the world turned ck and white, I already guessed what Senia would do. It was obvious she was using a Pause authority to ask me what rewards I got, so I already had an answer prepared.


    Youre going to ask about the rewards I got, yes?


    Yes.


    I shrugged. There wasnt much to hide right now. Or actually, this was a moment where I couldnt hide things.


    First of all, as you probably know, I got one level up point.


    My level right now was 29, so with this, I would be level 30.


    The Guardians must be going wild right now.


    There were quite a few Guardians who had made both overt and covert attempts to recruit me. In the current situation, I was a one-of-a-kind, limited edition. There were Guardians to rece Guardians, but no yer that could rece me.


    For now, I moved to a different topic to amp up the anticipation a little.


    A new trait was added to Eye of Perception. Ill briefly set information about Eye of Perception to public. You can also scan me if you want.


    [Eye of Perception]<ol><li>


    Type: Innate Ability</li><li>


    Basic acquisition conditions:<ul><li>


    Sixth Sense</li><li>


    Calm Observers Eye</li></ul></li><li>


    Additional acquisition condition:<ul><li>


    Ovee the death sentence of Sixth Sense</li><li>


    Ovee pain</li></ul></li><li>


    Detailed exnation:<ul><li>


    Eye of Perception is an eye of intuition, meaning the user gains concrete knowledge about objects in the outer world through their sense of intuition. It allows the user to intuit and receive information about the target.</li></ul></li><li>


    Proficiency: [1]</li><li>


    Traits:<ul><li>


    Distinguish between Awakened and Unawakened</li><li>


    Read Status Windows</li><li>


    Sense danger</li><li>


    Resistance towards illusory attacks or apparition magic</li></ul></li></ol>


    The new trait I gained from clearing the Forest of Unknowns was the final bullet point, resistance towards illusory attacks or apparition magic. That alone was already more than sufficient a reward, because it was also something I could make good use ofter in the Gwanghwamun Dungeon.


    On top of that, I got a mana crystal.


    I shared the information about the mana crystal. Senias wingtips trembled. It was possible she could see the amplification value that was marked as a ? for me.


    Looking at her reaction, it must be an incredible item after all.


    It would take at least three years for the world to be aware of this crystals true value. This thing was like a surefire winning lottery ticket.


    Also, I got Hobgoblin Perfume.


    [Hobgoblin Perfume]


    A perfume hobgoblins apply when ying tricks. It enables a special Stealth. However, overlyrge movements will cancel the spirit art.


    Effect: Transparency spirit art


    Uses: 1


    This Hobgoblin Perfume, one of the items that wouldter undergo stringent management by authorities because it could be used for crime, was another of my gains today.


    On top of that


    The Merchant of Venice also gifted me a special item.


    I intentionally publicized this as well.


    [Forced Exchange Scroll]


    When a Trade Window is active, this scroll can forciblyplete the exchange.


    If someone put an expensive item into the trade window by ident, I could use this item to forcibly steal the item. To be honest, I wasnt really the type who liked these kinds of items. It washow should I put it?the minimum amount of decency left in me. However, I mentioned this item because I was about to level up.


    Because I was getting to level 30, the point at which I would choose my Guardian.


    Now, then. You all heard that, didnt you, Guardians?


    The Merchant of Venice gifted me a special scroll like the Forced Exchange Scroll, even though he only started watching me today.


    Well, then


    I had drawn things out long enough. Id probably excited a lot of people with this. I could only guess how many Guardians were gathered in Senias channel.


    Shall we level up?


    Just as I said that, something strange started happening to Senia.

 Chapter 62: Five Notes

    Chapter 62: Five Notes


    Something strange started happening to Senia.


    Huh? No way, thats!


    I knew what was happening.


    <i>Bzzt bzzzzzt!</i>


    There was a buzzing noise as Senias body began to twist and distort. Parts of her body faded and reappeared repeatedly.


    Its server overload.


    Senias body became more and more faint.


    yer Kim Hyukjin!


    Senia was urgently trying to say something to me, but then her bodypletely disappeared from sight. The Intermediate Administrator who had been exclusively streaming me, Senia, disappeared.


    She was kicked out by server overload


    There was one thing I could be sure about. This moment, the moment I turned level 30, was being watched by countless Guardians.


    Its notmon for five Guardians topete to send messages to begin with.


    Whether it be six or ten Guardians that were interested, the number that could directly send messages to me was limited to five. The fact that all five slots were filled meant that at least five Guardians might be sending messages to me very soon.


    Senia must not have an advanced enough System to handle an excessive number of Guardians yet.


    It was a little tricky to exin, but if I put it in human terms, it was like not having enough server capacity. I heard that professional human streamers used extremely high specputers for smoother broadcasting. Intermediate Administrators were the same.


    She wasnt able to handle the deluge of Guardians and was kicked out.


    Streamers getting kicked out like this happened in several very famous incidents.


    It also happened in the Battle of the Maldives that Yeonseo yed a big role in.


    It wasnt a supermon urrence, but also not super rare.


    I need some time.


    It went without being said that I wouldnt choose my Guardian right now. That was extremely good content for me, as well. I decided to put it off for the time being, since it would take a little time for Senia to recover her System and get back online. I could also guess what she was trying to shout at me earlier before she blinked out.


    She was probably panicking out of worry that I might choose my Guardian without her there.


    I chuckled.


    Was she so worried that she might lose her quality content?


    Senia and I had a you-use-me, I-use-you rtionship. Such a rtionship where the yer and Intermediate Administrator sought to profit off of each other wasnt all that unusual. I didnt believe the horseshit rumor that there were Streamers out there who were devoted to their yers. Nothing changed the fact that they were streaming ys with our lives as coteral and fulfilling their greed. In the Tutorial, some of them also killed multiple people who hadnt been able to adapt to the Tutorial.


    A you-use-me, I-use-you rtionship is perfect.


    It wasnt badafter all, I could use Senia more than she could use me.


    I emerged from my thoughts and looked around.


    The Pause has been canceled.


    Notices came in at the same time.


    [Amplification Mana Crystal acquired.]


    [The Special Hidden Field Forest of Unknowns has beenpletely cleared.]


    [The exit for the Special Hidden Field Forest of Unknowns is being created.]


    I saw the squirrel in front of me. In no time at all, it had apparently filled its cheeks into big, round balls. A [!] mark appeared over the squirrels head.


    Coming with?


    The squirrel pompously puffed out its chest, like it was saying, Thats right, listen to me and follow me! Its walking speed wasnt that fast.


    Seeing it saunter towards the exit, I unconsciously mumbled, How amusing.


    The squirrel stopped in ce. The way a [?] appeared above its head was a little cute.


    Just what are you, really?


    It wasnt a monster, nor was it an NPC. It was a squirrel that understood human speech and could even use what I assumed was magic.


    How can your cheeks be so full?


    Another few question marks appeared. This time, there were three of them.


    [???]


    The squirrel tilted its neck, scratching its cheek like it didnt understand what I was talking about.


    Well, whatever.


    I didnt think I could get more out of it with further questioning. I decided to stop with this.


    Everything was paused until just now.


    During a Pause, other than Senia and me, everything turned to ck and white and the world was temporarily put on hold. That was the kind of authority that had been used.


    Up until the Pause, the squirrels cheeks were t.


    But after the Pause ended, its cheeks were round and full.


    Which means, it wasnt affected by the Pause.


    It wasnt affected by the Pause and filled its cheeks with the fruits I had given it. I had no idea what this little rascal was.


    Exmation marks appeared over the squirrels head.


    [!!!]


    It had discovered the Warp Crystal that would take us to the exit.


    [Exit]


    The Warp Crystal that links the Forest of Unknowns to Seoul Station Exit 2. When destroyed, you will leave the Forest of Unknowns.


    It wasnt all that hard to destroy the Warp Crystal.


    [Leaving the Forest of Unknowns.]


    [Porting to Seoul Station Exit 2.]


    I was ready to use an item as soon as I was warped to Seoul Station Exit 2 to avoid any possible nuisances, like reporters mobbing me, or someone trying to inquire about my identity.


    Huh?


    But there was no need to warp.


    It feels kinda like things havee under control.


    I didnt get that feeling of confusion and messiness from before. The person managing the yers in the Seoul Station Exit 2 was no longer a policeman.


    Thered been a big change.


    * * *


    I could only be shocked.


    Its been three months?


    When I checked my phone, which was starting to get reception again, I saw that it was already September. It was far hotter than the time when the Tutorial Field first appeared.


    Its be insanely hot.


    I took a look at the news through my phone and found out that a record-breaking heat wave had begun. It was the worst heat wave ever measured.


    Three months


    That in itself was shocking, but my headache was just beginning. There was a mountain of missed calls logged in my phone.


    [Noona]


    [Mom]


    [Choi Sung-gu]


    [Noona]


    [Mom]


    [Shin Yeonseo]


    [So Yoohyun]


    [Noona]


    A feeling more terrifying than what I felt when I killed the Lycanthrope or went through the insane Magic Troll hunt during the Tutorial traveled down my spine. Cold sweat beaded on my forehead.


    I couldnt help butugh.


    Haha


    I started walking home.


    I should probably call, right?


    I might give my mom a heart attack if I called right now, so I decided to call my sister first.


    Uh noona?


    I couldnt hear her voice. The call simply ended with a beep. I scratched my head sheepishly.


    Mm.


    My sister didnt end the call just now out of anger. I could say that with 120% certainty.


    Guess she burst out into tears.


    There was no doubt about it; she started sobbing and didnt want me to hear, so she quickly ended the call.


    I also got a call from Yeonseo just then, right on cue. She hit me with a flood of words.


    Huh? What the? You actually picked up? What happened? Youre alive, right?


    Of course.


    Holy, shit. It took you three months to clear that ce? Holy shit. Thats nuts. But anyway, anyway! What a relief that youre alive! I was a little worried, you know! A-Anyway! I have something super important to tell you, so lets meet up asap when youve got the time!


    Apparently, Yoohyun was with Yeonseo. I didnt see it happen, but it seemed he had ripped the phone out of Yeonseos hands. In the background, I heard shrieks of Hey! Thats my phone! Give it back! If a muscleman like you is so rough with it, itll break!


    H-Hyungnim! May I inquire if your body is in good health?


    Just where did he learn that weird way of speech from?


    Im fine, yeah.


    Hyungniiiiiiiiiiiiiiiim!!!


    I also heard Yeonseos voice.


    Hey! Muscle pig! Tears are enough! Whyre you putting your snot all over my phone! So fucking dirty!


    For the people of this changed world, three months was apparently a very long time. In any case, I ended up returning to the world after three months.


    I went home by taxi to the DMC Riverview Xi, our new home where Mom, my sister, and Sunhwa were at.


    Hm?


    My family was in better condition than I thought. Of course, everyones eyes were red and swollen from crying, but they were rtively fine, to the point that I wondered if their attention had been diverted to something else.


    What the?


    Why was <i>that </i>here?


    Oppa!


    Sunhwa came running. The way she dashed over and jumped into my arms was kind of like a puppy greeting their owner. My sister was pointedly avoiding my gaze. Mom came to the front door and greeted me.


    What a relief that youre alright, Hyukjin.


    Of course I am.


    Her eyes reddened a little, but it wasnt the soap opera I was dreading.


    Why is this guy here?


    A yellow exmation point appeared above its head.


    [!]


    This brat, this unidentifiable <i>squirrel,</i> showed up along with my family. Sunhwa picked it up and put it on her palm.


    Oppa. This little guy is super cute.


    When I looked closer, I saw that things like sunflower seeds were scattered across the table. They had been purchased to feed this squirrel.


    We named him Darongi!


    Darongi?


    For whatever reason, the squirrel on Sunhwas palm once again put on pompous airs and puffed out its chest. Unlike when I was in the Forest of Unknowns, I could see its information a little with Eye of Perception.


    [Phantom Thief Squirrel]


    Name:  (must be named)


    Age: 7


    Level: ?


    Innate ability: [Pickup] [Pathfinding] [Gnawing] [Theft] [Subspace] [Big Belly] [Hole Digging] [Stealth] [Master Selection]


    State: Joyful / Full / Lazy


    Disposition: Confident / Insatiable / Intimate


    Summary: Gluttonous Theft Genius<ul><li>Because Eye of Perception''s proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    Why does a fricking squirrel have so many innate abilities?


    Even the genius Yeonseo and Yoohyun had one or two innate abilities, at most. But this little guy already had <i>nine.</i> You had to wonder what kind of squirrel it was.


    Notices came in.


    [Phantom Thief Squirrel wishes to select a master.]


    [As a basic condition, the Conqueror of the Seoul Station Dungeon title is required.]


    [Be the master of the Phantom Thief Squirrel?]


    [If you ept, the Conqueror of the Seoul Station Dungeon title will be changed to Phantom Thief Squirrels Master.]


    It looked like the innate ability Master Selection was triggering here.


    The reason Im able to see this guys state right now with Eye of Perception might even be


    It might be because the squirrel had permitted it. It seemed the squirrel felt a great deal of closeness with me.


    For now, Ill ept it.


    [You have be the master of the Phantom Thief Squirrel.]


    [The title Conqueror of the Seoul Station Dungeon has been erased.]


    [The title Phantom Thief Squirrels Master has been generated.]


    Just by bing its master, I got a new title.


    [Phantom Thief Squirrels Master]


    The title granted to the master of the Phantom Thief Squirrel. The title bearer can give a name to the Phantom Thief Squirrel, and the named Phantom Thief Squirrel will be loyal to its master for a lifetime.[Grant the Phantom Thief Squirrel a name.]


    The name was already decided, wasnt it? From the way the little guys head whipped around every time Sunhwa called out Darongi, it apparently liked the name.[The name of the Phantom Thief Squirrel has been changed to Darongi.]


    As strange as this turn of events was, I became Darongis master. It was thanks to Darongi that my mom, sister, and Sunhwas attention was diverted, and I was safely(?) able to reunite with my family after three months of absence.


    Lets see what happened during those months.


    It was three months during a time of upheaval, plenty of time for a lot to happen.


    However, the world began to change to ck and white, as if a Pause authority had been triggered.

 Chapter 63: Five Notes (2)

    Chapter 63: Five Notes (2)


    It looked like a Pause.


    Its not that it looks like a Pause, but that


    It actually was a Pause.


    Even though Im not in a dungeon but in a neutral field


    It wasntmon for a Pause to take effect during everyday life. First and foremost, this Pause authority was known to be an extremely expensive authority, one that both Guardians and Streamers couldnt squander. So I was surprised that a Pause state was triggered by using such an authority.


    Senia. Whats going on?


    When I turned around, Senia was there.


    She really would have be a huge sess if she was a little more eloquent.


    I thought Id be ustomed to her appearance from seeing her so many times, but no. I had never seen anyone as beautiful as Senia. The strange aura and feeling of grace she exuded didnt feel like they were a part of the mortal world. This angel Streamer was a better fit for the word beautiful than any other person Id ever seen.


    Well, it has nothing to do with me.


    I knew she was pretty, but her beauty didnt have much to do with me. Whether my Streamer was pretty or not was no concern of mine. The reason I made a contract with Senia was because she was easy to manipte. And of course, Senia had recognized that I was good quality content.


    yer Kim Hyukjin.


    I already knew what Senia would say. She was going to ask if I had chosen my Guardian.


    Her channel is closed right now.


    She wasnt streaming me to the Guardians.


    Shes scared shitless that I mightve chosen my Guardian already.


    I couldnt say for sure, but there was a high chance I was the yer receiving the most attention in the beginner period. Such a yer reached level 30, which meant the time to select a Guardian hade. Of course such an event would inevitably draw a great deal of focus and interest from the Guardians.


    Have you selected a Guardian?


    Yeah, of course.


    Of course I didnt.


    Senias wingtips trembled.


    Why did you choose your Guardian without the Intermediate Administrator around?


    I didnt hear any notices saying the Intermediate Administrator had to be present for me to pick my Guardian.


    Senias face reddened a little. She looked a little mad.


    I just wanted to see how she would react, but


    As expected, my prediction was correct.


    Shes mad?


    For a Streamer as stoic as her, the fact I could visibly see that she was angry meant she was extremely enraged.


    yer Kim Hyukjin is very intelligent. So why did you use a moment while I wasnt streaming to continue ying? And something as important as the Guardian selection?


    I felt pressure from her, a formless energy pressing me down. It felt simr to the fear ability used by boss monsters. Right now, Senia was agitated.


    Answer me. Allow me to inform you that I may make an extreme choice depending on your answer.


    Technically speaking, Senia had no grounds to be angry. If I had chosen my Guardian at level 30, that was my natural right.


    So for her to be that mad despite that


    Why was she able to get angry without just cause?


    Its because she looks down on me.


    I had ten years of experience that otherscked. Right now, those ten years were a valuable wealth of experience you couldnt buy with any amount of money. I knew what a great number of Intermediate Administrators thought of yers and how they treated them.


    Well, Senias still on the easygoing side.


    It was only because Senia was Senia that she was able to grit out such a polite warning. A nasty-tempered Intermediate Administrator might have threatened me while throwing in f-bombs. There really were a lot of Intermediate Administrators like that.


    In any case, its because she sees me as a way to make money.


    That was why she reacted like this. I didnt dislike it. To begin with, Senia and I needed each other and were using each other. So I had to make my position more clear and define our rtionship in ck and white. That was what I, at this point in time, decided was necessary.


    I chuckled. It was a very deliberateugh.


    To borrow your words, I am very intelligent.


    Up until now, I had resolved many difficult situations. I also brought a conflict with another Intermediate Administrator, Neptune, to a good resolution. Senia had seen all of it from start to finish.


    But I really cant figure out what the extreme choice you mention could be.


    yer Kim Hyukjin and I have signed an exclusive contract. I have given up on a great deal of profit to exclusively stream you.


    Thats because each and every action of mine is profitable for you. Dont try to make it sound like youve sacrificed a lot for my sake.


    Senia, you beginner Streamer. Haah. Looking at this pretty woman who was reduced to speechlessness with a few words actually made me feel a little regret. She was such a rookie that it wouldnt be odd for her to be eliminated from thepetition between Streamers.


    And say things right. Youve given up on a great deal of profit?


    I snorted again with an intentional sneer, as if to tell her not to say BS.


    You dont remember your channel getting overloaded?


    Your personal server wasnt able to handle the sudden influx of Guardians.


    Thats


    Was it because you were good at talking? Because you made things fun? Because you yourself make good content?


    No, that wasnt it at all. The answer was already determined. It was because <i>I </i>was good quality content.


    You yourself know thats not the case. Youve experienced a flood of Guardians so intense your personal server couldnt handle it and youre still able to say you gave up on profit? Do you have any conscience?


    I didnt think I would already be carrying out the Intermediate Administrator Domestication that was still a good five years in the making. Several Rankers said that this process was absolutely necessary. If you didnt make the hierarchy between you and your Intermediate Administrator ck and white, many cases of getting dragged along at the Intermediate Administrators behest would urter down the line.


    There were a lot of cases of that, yeah.


    An Intermediate Administrator had one goal. Coins. That was their first andst goal. They werent all that interested in something as insignificant as a yers wellbeing. Their eyes were fixed only on whether a yer could make money or not. The more time went on, the more intense the streaming war between the Intermediate Administrators became, the more apparent that fact would be.


    You and I have an exclusive contract, and were in a business rtionship. You recognize that, yes?


    Yes.


    Senia was still kind and pure for a Streamer. After all, there were a lot of Streamers who stubbornly shouted, Sue me! and refused to listen. At the very least, it was possible to talk to Senia.


    But in such a situation, you spoke like you were threatening me.


    Up until now, most beginner yers were scared of Intermediate Administrators. That was because most Intermediate Administrators were far more powerful than yers. Because yers didnt fully understand this System, they couldnt make realints to their Intermediate Administrators.


    But not me.


    I continued with a serious expression.


    If you use coercive force on me or vent your unjustified rage on me one more time


    I gave it right back to her.


    Keep in mind that Im the one who might make an extreme choice.


    I put the final nail in the coffin.


    There are no yers to rece me, but there are many Intermediate Administrators who can rece you. Intermediate Administrators who would pay the huge contract vition fee for me.


    * * *


    * * *


    [Channel #19207 has been opened.]


    Channel #19207 was the channel run by the angel Intermediate Administrator Senia, a Streamer who was focusing her attention on a single yer.


    Senia spoke.


    A Pause is currently in effect. I would like to express my sincere thanks to the certain Guardian who gave me the Pause authority.


    She didnt reveal who that certain Guardian was.


    yer Kim Hyukjin will now begin his Guardian selection.


    Guardian selection, and the 1st advancement that woulde alongside it. This was the turning point for a yer that urred when they reached level 30.


    I heard a stream of notices.


    [Level increased.]


    [Current level: 30]


    They were all notices I knew about.


    [The number of direct messages you can receive from Guardians is limited to five.]


    [Choosing the Guardians that can send you a direct message.]


    Its taking a while.


    It was just a guess, but the Guardians were probably fighting tooth and nail right now in order to secure the right to send me a direct message. Basically, in order to contact me.[Guardian messages will be sent to you in the form of a note.]


    [A note has arrived.]


    [A note has arrived.]


    [A note has arrived.]


    [A note has arrived.]


    [A note has arrived.]


    Hyukjin trembled unconsciously.


    I immediately got five notes.


    Could this really be called luck?


    No. This is absolutely not luck.


    Luck alone could not produce such a result. It was hard work in addition to luck, with a heaping spoonful of talent on top. By now, I was sure of it. I had enough talent to make the average genius look like an ordinary Joe. I just didnt know how long this talent wouldst, or what my limit of growth was.


    Five.


    The past me wouldnt have even imagined this would happen.


    There are plenty of yers who cant even get contacted by one Guardian.


    But I received a whopping five messages.


    From what I know


    Ibed through my memories. It wasnt a topic my civil service studying had covered thoroughly. You couldnt know how many contacts a yer received unless they revealed it themselves, so it was hard to tell exactly.


    But from what is known, four was the highest.


    There hadnt been any yersat least from what I knewwho had received notes from five Guardians.


    Check the notes.


    I checked the names of the Guardians who won the battle and were able to send notes to me.


    [A note from the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain has arrived.]


    [A note from the Herdsman of Las Vegas has arrived.]


    [A note from the Lady of the Scales has arrived.]


    [A note from the Whispering Devil has arrived.]


    [A note from the Merchant of Venice has arrived.]


    Two Guardians who were very famous in the Korean server, one who was extremely famous in the Italian server, and one who was immensely famous in the US server. And then, there was one Guardian even I didnt know that much about.


    Five?


    But it was a little unexpected.


    Its a little weird.


    The Guardian I had been expecting didnt send a message.


    This choice wasnt in the picture I was drawing.


    I didnt think that Guardian would be eliminated from thepetition. The Guardian I was thinking about was none other than the Nameless Observer.


    Did the Nameless Observer not choose me?


    That could be the case. Because if the Nameless Observer didnt choose me, I wouldnt be able to hear the notice about it.


    For now lets check the messages one by one.


    They were all famous Guardians. I was confident that no matter who I chose, I had a promising future ahead of me.


    As long as Im not an early bloomer.


    It all hinged on me being a true genius with no early growth limit. After reading the notes, I thought long and hard. I thought over and over about which of the five Guardians who had sent messages to me I would choose.


    After a long period of time, Senia asked, Which Guardian will you set as your contracted Guardian?

 Chapter 64: 1st Advancement

    Chapter 64: 1st Advancement


    Which Guardian will you set as your contracted Guardian?


    I already decided on the answer to Senias question. It was a decision I had made a very long time ago, ever since I decided I wanted to live like a real person and resolved myself to living more sessfully. From that moment on, I made preparations for this choice.


    I remembered very clearly. When I was sitting in the conditional safe zone that was the bus, I heard Guardian notices for the first time.


    [The Nameless Observer is carefully watching your actions.]


    [The Nameless Observer has begun to take an interest in you.]


    That time was still vivid in my mind. The 1st wave of Goblin attacks began with the Primordial Fog, and all of the other people on the bus died.


    That was when the Nameless Observer granted me a bonus.


    [The Nameless Observer wishes to bestow upon you an Open Beta Bonus.]


    [Calm Observers Eye has taken effect.]


    You could say that was the moment my ying began. The Calm Observers Eye I got back then fused with Sixth Sense to be the Eye of Perception I had now.


    But


    The important thing was this.


    Back then, Senia wasnt in the bus.


    Not just Senia, but no other Intermediate Administrators had existed in the world at the time. I could say that for sure because after I was bestowed an Open Beta Bonus from the Nameless Observer, I received a notice like this:


    [The Nameless Observer looks at you with interest.]


    And only then did I receive the following notices:


    [The Tutorial Quest is beginning.]


    [ The Intermediate Administrator is appearing.]


    The Intermediate Administrators began to show up only then.


    In other words, the Nameless Observer was watching the situation even before the Streamers were streaming.


    No Guardian, no matter who, could observe yers without a Streamer. That was a widely epted theory. ording to what I knew, that was how it was. But the Nameless Observer was an existence thatpletely flipped that theory on its head.


    Senia asked again.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. Which Guardian will you set as your contracted Guardian?


    So why did the Nameless Guardian not send me a message? Were they really pushed out by the other Guardians?


    [True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain]


    [Herdsman of Las Vegas]


    [Lady of the Scales]


    [Whispering Devil]


    [Merchant of Venice]


    I opened the notes, which only I could see.


    The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain.


    The note held things I already knew the gist of. He started by praising himself as the strongest heavenly demon in the world and the true master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain, and that he would turn me into the most outstanding martial artist alive, or something of that nature.


    Theyre all amazing Guardians, its true.


    Even though I didnt know the Whispering Devil that well.


    But


    I still couldnt understand.


    Why did the Nameless Observer not send one?


    I remembered another clue.


    [Distributing rewards for clearing the quest Turtle Nest.]


    [7,000 Coins acquired.]


    I was sure of it. I knew that quest wasnt issued by an Intermediate Administrator.


    The quest was cleverly disguised to look like a quest issued by an Intermediate Administrator.


    But that, too, was ridiculous. Because to describe it in our terms, Guardians were attention whores. When they sponsored yers and Streamers, they received a great deal of attention. The more skilled Streamers actually gently coaxed Guardians into giving them a ton of sponsorships.


    If theres really any Guardian who isnt like that


    I judged it was the Nameless Guardian. After all, the adjective in their name was nameless. From every angle, it looked like anonymity was this Nameless Guardians fundamental attribute.


    While I was thinking, I also checked the note I got from the Whispering Devil again.


    [Note from the Whispering Devil]


    I will be straightforward. I will make you into the Demon King. If you choose me as your contracted Guardian, you can be the Demon King. Think long and hard.


    The note made me sure of it.


    This guys a total scammer.


    He wasnt called the Whispering Devil for nothing. Demon King? His whole argument fell apart at Demon King. If this guy was really the Demon Kings Guardian, I would probably be somewhere in the level 40s by now. Nothing was known about the Demon Kings Guardian, but the Demon King had to be out there somewhere.


    You cant believe everything a Guardian says.


    You couldnt believe things that werent explicitly stated. Unless they stated things clearly, like saying they would grant some skill or title, such vague words were merely empty promises. To put it simply, a scam.


    With the notes floating in front of me in the air, I read through them again and again.


    I do have to choose someone


    I needed a contracted Guardian to grow far more efficiently. The more they had to give, the more of a pushover Guardian they were, the better it was for me. In exchange for the fun I would give them, they would sponsor me.


    But what is it?


    I had the niggling feeling that something <i>other</i> was between the notes.


    How should I put it?


    It was a strange feeling, like there was something I shouldnt miss between the notes. It was like there was an unwritten message among them, but it was something that couldnt be seen with the eyes.


    I should put more focus on Eye of Perception.


    I looked through the notes not with my physical eyes, but with Eye of Perception. I just had a feeling that was what I should do.


    Senia asked once again, yer Kim Hyukjin. Have you made a decision?


    No.


    I shook my head.


    Each and every one of them are such great Guardians that I really dont know how an ant like me would dare make a decision.


    Sure enough, the notices came in with lightning speed.


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain is pleased.]


    [The Lady of the Scales is feigning modesty.]


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas is earnestly waiting.]


    [The Merchant of Venice nods at yourposure.]


    [The Whispering Devil detests you.]


    Countless Guardians were watching right now. But it wasnt right for me to make my choice here and now. I didnt know why; I just felt it.


    Eye of Perception.


    This niggling feeling of something else, this feeling like I was missing something


    Show me something whatever it is.


    I captured a sort of hazy shimmer between the notes.


    Theres something there.


    I was sure of it.


    There.


    I focused. I focused with everything I had. And then, a notice came in.


    [Eye of Perceptions proficiency has increased.]


    [Eye of Perceptions proficiency: 2]


    The proficiency that hadnt gone up the whole time finally increased, and with it, I was able to see something new.


    [Note from the Nameless Observer.]


    With the increase in proficiency, Eye of Perception picked up yet another note.


    There it is!


    My heart began to thump.


    The max is originally five Guardians.


    For ten years following the beginning of ying, countless people rose to the position of Rankers and became famous across the world. But not a single one of those Rankers was chosen by six Guardians. I didnt know how it was for the Demon King, but officially, five was the max.


    But I got six.


    Moreover, one of them was a hidden note, a special note I wouldnt have seen if Eye of Perceptions proficiency hadnt gone up.


    Its all good now.


    My answer was decided from the very beginning.


    I


    My choice was the Nameless Guardian.


    * * *


    Each of the Guardians who werent selected sent messages, saying they were disappointed, or detested me, or that they honored my choice. But I didnt really pay much attention to the messages. They were thirsty for good quality content, so as long as I yed properly, they would never be able to discard me. If they liked my ying, then that was thattheir fundamental characters would never allow them to hate me.


    The truly important thing is


    That I made my contract.


    [A contract with the Nameless Observer has beenpleted.]


    [The Nameless Observer has been set as yer Kim Hyukjins contracted Guardian.]


    [A new ss will be set in ordance with the contract with the Nameless Observer.]


    Id been waiting for this. I wondered what ss the Nameless Observer would give me.


    [You have been given the ss Onlooker. ept the ss?]


    It didnt look like a very good ss.


    [Onlooker]


    A ss that is characterized by observing all things. No matter what happens, the Onlooker sees watching in the background without stepping forward as a virtue and simply stays one step removed from all things.<ul><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Detailed exnation</li></ul>


    The description was nothing special. From the description alone, there was no trashier ss than this. I didnt even activate the detailed exnation, because I never intended on epting this ss.


    I believe in you, Nameless Observer.


    I had taken a gamble of sorts with this choice, a gamble I judged had a very high chance of sess.


    Even if I had chosen someone other than you, I would have been able to live a perfectly satisfactory life.


    There was no doubt about that. By my former standards, Id already seeded plenty. I even had a mana crystal that would fetch $10 million in three years.


    However


    It was because I couldnt be satisfied with that, because I wanted to go even higher, that I took this gamble. That was why I went all in. Everything I did was for this moment.


    [Use the High Advancement Assist Scroll?]


    This was an item that only one lucky person could purchase. The items in the Hidden Item Shop were limited to one in stock. I was only able to purchase this by killing Gold Turtles and satisfying the Hidden Piece linked to them to get a ton of Coins.


    It was all for this moment.


    Opening the shop had cost 50k Coins, and purchasing had required 40k. When using this ridiculously pricey item, you had to do it boldly.


    [Using a High Advancement Assist Scroll.]


    It wasnt a low scroll, or a medium scroll, but a <i>high</i> one. I didnt know how much it could increase the grade of my ss. It was random.


    [The ss Onlooker has been upgraded to the higher grade ss, Observer.]


    Please, get upgraded just one more time.


    I put my hands together and prayed. Normally, High Advancement Assist Scrolls would make your ss jump in grade twice or thrice.


    Please!


    But I didnt hear any additional notices.


    Once?


    It was over with this?


    Even though its a High Advancement Assist Scroll?


    Id been blessed by RNG all this time, but this time, it failed me.


    Ah is this the end?


    Even the name didnt look all that impressive.


    Observer. Observer, you say


    Id never heard of a ss like this. I prided myself on knowing about quite a lot of hidden sses, but it was apletely new ss to me.


    It at least has the Guardians name in it, but


    It was based on the Guardians name, but the name alone didnt give it much merit.


    [You have been given the ss Observer. ept the ss?]


    The milk had already been spilled. Refusing the ss granted by the Guardian at this point wasnt a good choice. It could spoil the mood of the contract bearer, aka the Nameless Guardian, from the very first day of our contract. The dice were tossed and I was the one who had nned this, anyway. I couldnt do something foolish here and destroy it.


    It cant be helped.


    Though it was a shame, I had no choice but to ept.


    [You have advanced to the Observer ss.]


    [The yers information is being updated.]


    [The update will take a slight amount of time.]


    I opened up the exnation about Observer right away.


    [Observer]


    A ss that is entitled to observe the world in its entirety. Observe all things in-depth. You will see a new path.<ul><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Detailed exnation</li></ul><ul></ul>


    The description was at least a bit better than Onlooker, because at least there was a hopeful message of you will see a new path at the end.


    Ill need a little more time to fully adapt after the update is finished.


    I opened up the detailed exnation. When I saw what was written, my mouth dropped.


    This is the Observer ss?

 Chapter 65: 1st Advancement (2)

    Chapter 65: 1st Advancement (2)


    <b>Chapter 65: 1st Advancement (2)</b>


    This is the Observer ss?


    It was apletely new ss to me, one that no one had yed during ten years of ying.


    I opened up the detailed exnation.


    [Detailed Exnation]<ol><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">The Observer must maintain the position of an observer. The Observer avoids excessively proactive ying.<ul><li aria-level="2" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">0% EXP in direct hunting</li><li aria-level="2" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">0% Coin acquisition in direct hunting</li><li aria-level="2" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">0% item drop rate if Observer makes the kill</li></ul></li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">The Observer can determine the domain he observes.<ul><li aria-level="2" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Can use the ss skill Observers Domain. (+detailed exnation)</li><li aria-level="2" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Current proficiency: 1</li></ul></li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">The Observer can observe the world with special eyes.<ul><li aria-level="2" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Can use the ss skill Observers Eye. (+detailed exnation)</li><li aria-level="2" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Current proficiency: 1</li></ul></li></ol>


    Observer


    Did must maintain the position of an observer mean that I had to sit back and only observe? I had to look into it a bit more.


    Direct hunting


    I applied what I knew. Direct hunting basically meant that I would be cutting down at least 50% of the monsters HP.


    And if I make the final blow, the item drop rate is 0%.


    The ss was just as the name described.


    It really is an observer


    Up until now, there didnt seem to be many positives, despite this being a special ss I acquired by using a High Advancement Assist Scroll.


    No. That cant be.


    There were definitely sses out there that looked unimpressive on the outside but were capable of enormous power. Observer had to be one of those sses. I didnt have concrete evidence for this conviction; it was simply a feeling I had from the ying Id done so far, something like the oft-mentioned intuition.


    Lets check the ss-exclusive skills.


    I could read the detailed exnations of both skills.


    [Detailed Exnation]<ol><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Skill name: Observers Domain (Current proficiency: 1)</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Skill effect:<ul><li aria-level="2" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Creates a field where Observers Eye takes effect.</li><li aria-level="2" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">For party y, EXP +50%</li></ul></li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Range: 5 meters</li></ol>


    It increased the EXP gain when ying in a party and created a field linked to Observers Eye. That meant I had to find out what Observers Eye was.


    [Detailed Exnation]<ol><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Skill name: Observers Eye (Current proficiency: 1)</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Skill effect:<ul><li aria-level="2" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Flow Perception: Visualize the flow of nature.</li><li aria-level="2" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Action Duplication: Copy the actions of an observation target (currently cannot be used).</li><li aria-level="2" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Title Duplication: Use the title and simr abilities of an observation target (currently cannot be used).</li><li aria-level="2" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Ability Share: Share an ability with designated observation targets (currently cannot be used).</li></ul></li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Conditions for use:<ul><li aria-level="2" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Must possess the ability Calm Observers Eye.</li><li aria-level="2" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Must be contracted with the Nameless Observer.</li><li aria-level="2" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Must be in a private area set for ying.</li></ul></li></ol>


    I was speechless for a moment.


    At least right now its terrible.


    I couldnt call this awesome! right now. It didnt even have a ss-exclusive attack or defense skill that were somon. Plus, I would actually get no EXP if I hunted a monster directly.


    But there was a silver lining, and that was the Observers Eye that appeared to be the core of the Observer ss.


    To summarize


    I felt like I knew what kind of ss Observer was. It was a ss where you carefully observed a certain target. The target of observation had to be within the Observers Domain, and I would use Observers Eye to examine them.


    I think it means I can then copy the abilities of the target being observed.


    The current proficiency was 1. The higher the proficiency became, the more abilities I would be able to unlock.


    Not just abilities, but even their titles.


    Even if I didnt go out and earn titles of my own, once Observers Eye grew in proficiency, I would eventually be able to use the titles of others.


    Andter on


    I could even share my abilities with others.


    Id be able to see a Fist King using Single Hit Finisher.


    The ss had an intermediary ystyle that would allow me to share the abilities of those within my domain, giving the right ability to the right person. At the moment, that was what I had figured out about the Observer ss.


    Or for example, Yeonseo using tinum Shield.


    Of course, I didnt expect it to be an omnipotent skill. I wouldnt be able to arbitrate everything like I wanted.


    But


    The profit Id be able to earn by sharing a useful skill or innate ability at the perfect time was likely something I couldnt even imagine.


    To make that happen, I need to make sure my party members have excellent abilities to begin with.


    That condition was already partially fulfilled. Kim Sunhwa. So Yoohyun. Shin Yeonseo. These three alone were party members who were top of the line no matter where they went, and they all wanted to party with me.


    I purposefully said aloud, The problem is leveling up.


    I was now level 30. The stretch between level 30 and 40 was called the Hell Phase. Mindlessly trying to push through the level 30-40 period was a fools errand. Of course, it was something that could be settled with hard work, but it would take at least five years to get through this stretch with effort alone.


    Lets think about it slowly.


    This ss called Observer was one with very obvious pros and cons.


    A ss that cant shine in the beginning.


    Butter?


    Its value will be unlimited.


    Looking at it now, that future was a bit far-off. How exhausting was it to get less EXP from killing monsters? How was I supposed to get through the Hell Phase?


    But


    Strangely enough, I was starting to feel confident that I could do it. I couldnt express exactly why that was.


    I think I can do it.


    I felt like I could do it. Or rather, to be more precise


    Feels kinda like it fits me perfectly?


    I didnt know why, but a sense of inexplicable confidence that I had gotten a ss that fitted me like a glove was blooming within me.


    For now, lets give it a shot.


    I said aloud, I thank the Nameless Observer for giving me such a good opportunity.


    But when I spoke, an interference Id never even imagined urred. When I said Nameless Observer, it came out as wordless buzzing.


    Wha?


    It seemed the Nameless Observer didnt want to reveal that they were my contracted Guardian.


    Thats why theyre nameless.


    There was also a condition like the following in order to use Observers Eye:


    Must be in a private area set for ying.


    At least from what I could tell right now, it seemed the Nameless Observer was fundamentally the type of Guardian who didnt like to reveal themselves to the public. Matching a Guardians disposition was also important.


    In order to carry out your will and not disappoint all the esteemed Guardians, I vow to do my utmost to y.


    Those words were a sort of pretense that was cemented over a long period of time. The great majority of Guardians liked to hear words like that during a yers advancement. I didnt get any real notices, but I was sure that many Guardians were finding meudable right now.


    [The Pause has been deactivated.]


    The world began to regain its color.


    * * *


    <b>Reaper Scans</b>


    Trantor - Lei


    Proofreader - Ash


    Join our discord for updates on releases! https://dsc.gg/reapeics


    * * *


    I was lying on my bed. I got the Observer ss, and there were a lot of things I had to do moving forward. I also recalled the threat my sister gave me earlier.


    Pull something like this again, and Ill kill you.


    Her words were pretty savage, but her expression made it seem like she was on the verge of tears, so I just said ok. I said I was sorry for beingte, but my sister just whirled around and went into her room. It was the same as when she ended the call. Apparently, she really hated showing me her tears. Really, she was such a softie at heart.


    Oi. Whatve you been chomping on this whole time?


    The squirrel that got a name from me, Darongi, was clinging to the ceiling. To my fascination, he was able to scuttle about perfectly fine while upside down, like a frickin cockroach.


    A [!] appeared over his head.


    I didnt know what it was, but it seemed my older sister or Sunhwa gave him some dried fruits or something. Startled by my words, Darongi jumped down from the ceiling onto my stomach. Then, he covered his mouth and looked around warily, almost like he was guarding against someone stealing his food.


    No ones taking it from you. Would anyone take something youve been eating?


    As if reassured by those words, Darongi nodded and snuggled up to my side.


    A [] mark appeared above his head, and after burying himself between my arm and ribs, he proceeded to fall asleep.


    [zzZ] [zzZ] [zzZ]


    The snoozing marks kept popping up, and honestly, it was a bit cute.


    <i>Knock knock.</i>


    The person who knocked and came in was Sunhwa. Wearing loose pajamas, she was petite and cute today as well. Sometimes, it was hard to tell whether she was an elementary schooler or a middle schooler. Though to be fair, being in your first year of middle school wasnt that far off from being an elementary school student.


    Is it cause we overcame the crisis of death together?


    I felt myself growing fond of her, and every time I saw her, I had the feeling of wanting to protect her somehow, like it was good that she became my little sister.


    Oppa. I got a call from Yeonseo unnie.


    Why didnt she call me directly?


    She said you wouldnt pick up


    Oh right, I had my phone on mute. When I checked my phone, I found a whopping seven missed calls.


    Does Yeonseo unnie like you, oppa?


    Whats this about all of a sudden?


    It seemed like she was too obsessed with you.


    She must have something important to say.


    Come to think of it, before I chose my ss, Yeonseo did say she had something important to talk about.


    Anyway, I dont ept it yet. Even though Yeonseo unnie is pretty!


    She said some nonsense, and then I saw:


    Summary: Slight Brocon


    She went from a Weak Brocon to a Slight Brocon. Should I be calling this progress?


    TN: Previously, I had her at slight, but weak was the more urate word, so it has been changed.


    Well its puberty.


    With time, her brotherplex would probably fade on its own. I didnt think about it that hard.


    I called Yeonseo, who yelled at me as soon as she picked up.


    Hey! Whyd you pick up sote!


    My phone was on mute. Whats up?


    Cant you be a bit better at picking up?


    Im ending the call if you have nothing to say.


    W-What? W-Wait a sec! I do have something important to say.


    I listened in amusement. Yeonseo was the one who needed to say something, not me.


    What is it?


    So basically


    Yeonseo began to talk. After hearing what she had to say, I had a hard time saying it was (in my opinion) all that important.


    Thats right. Its about the time when the yers Association starts bing more active.


    3 months had already passed since I went into the Forest of Unknowns. It was about time for the yers Association to start taking an active role. They were convening yers from all over the country and giving them yer Licenses, and soon, they would start assigning ranks.


    Various rules. Tacit agreements. The distribution of items or profit. Big guilds sponsored by conglomerates.


    This was a time when such things were starting to get hammered out. Mankind was bing more prepared to ept new tech a little more proactively.


    The 1st yer Convention is happening tomorrow afternoon. We should be able to gain a lot of information there, dont you think? They say therell be a lot of open positions in big guilds. You can even get contracted with a conglomerate and get a high annual sry! Youre going tomorrow too, right?


    Come to think of it, it was already almost September 13. The 1st yer Convention was the first convention within Korea. Just as I was about to respond, Darongi sprang upright like a meerkat. I thought he was repositioning himself, but he then jumped off the bed and ran off. At the same time, I heard the doorbell go off.


    I knew that at some point, someone woulde to our house. Actually, I knew it would happen before the yer Convention.


    Hey. Wait a bit. Someone came over, Ill call you back.


    I hung up the call with Yeonseo.


    That person is!


    This was something I had long-since predicted, but I didnt know it would be the person who I now saw at our door.


    ____


    ____

 Chapter 66: 1st Players Convention

    Chapter 66: 1st yers Convention


    <b>Chapter 66: 1st yers Convention</b>


    September 13. The day of the 1st yers Convention.


    It was the first formal gathering of yers held by the Korean yers Association established with Sungshins massive support. You could call it a symbolic event.


    The president of Sungshin knows me.


    I could guess he had done a lot of background research on me. I knew that, and it was also something I had induced.


    Thats why I knew he would make contact with me, but


    I just didnt know the person who woulde would be Kim Kangchul. I still remembered all too clearly. On the night of April 26, 2028, he was the person who came to my door and personally delivered my results.


    <i>No Talent.</i>


    He said the following:


    <i>Im sorry to be the bearer of bad news. We performed your re-examination, but it was determined that you had no talent.</i>


    Giving me a slightly pitying look, he told me to study hard for my civil service exam and gave me a box of luxury drinks.


    But the yers Association in its early days was almost like a subsidiary of Sungshin


    After some time passed, the yers Association became independent from Sungshin, bing a government-affiliated institution. It was the majority opinion that a singlepany could not monopolize the enormous value that yers and new tech held. As such, a new yers Association was established with the same name as a government agency through talks with Sungshin.


    Kim Kangchul was the Head of Personnel of the yers Association back then.


    Something was a little weird.


    It was announced that civil service employees with career experience were picked out specially to hold positions in the yers Association.


    A position in the yers Association gave better annual sry and treatment than other civil service jobs. In any case, you were supposed to be from civil service to get a yers Association position.


    But at this point in time, Kim Kangchul is a team leader in Sungshin?


    The public was told that civil service employees with experience were picked out for positions in the yers Association, but a person working as a current employee of the conglomerate Sungshin became the Head of Personnel in the yers Association ten yearster?


    It doesnt add up.


    Kim Kangchul came to see me. That fact alone was enough for me toe to a conclusion.


    It was all a big fat lie.


    Both the current yers Association and the one ten yearster were under Sungshins control. It was like people said; there really was no one you could trust but yourself.


    Hello, I am Team Leader Kim Kangchul.


    Right now, he called himself the leader of the newly created yer Scouting Team. He also said he was part of the New Tech Division, or something like that. I checked his information.


    [Unawakened]


    Name: Kim Kangchul


    Age: 38


    State: Curious / Dubious / Confident / Fascinated


    Disposition: Ordinary / Ambitious / Full of Drive


    Summary:<ol><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Ordinary Person Hungry for Sess</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Pir of the Household</li></ol><ul><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Is unawakened.</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">The disposition/state/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    Curious, dubious, fascinated, huh.


    He was definitely curious about me.


    An ordinary person hungry for sess.


    ording to his summary, for now, he didnt seem like a bad person. I also didnt remember him havingmitted any evil acts.


    Also, hes the pir of the household.


    He was one of countless Korean breadwinners working hard to provide for their family. The man who gave me a great amount of information with his appearance alone had something very shocking to say.


    ...And so, the President would like to offer you the guildmaster position of Taeguk Shield.


    He offered me the guildmaster position of Taeguk Shield, of all guilds. In the early days of ying, Taeguk Shield was a guild that experienced a crazy amount of growth thanks to being carried by Sungshin.


    He must have had a very good impression of me.


    Yes, he did. He thinks very highly of you.


    ording to the current standards, the proposal itself wasnt bad.


    He has offered you an annual sry of $200k. The terms regarding item and Coin acquisition are written in detail in the contract.


    Only then did I realize why Kim Kangchul was feeling confident.


    State: Curious / Dubious / Confident / Fascinated


    He came offering a staggering $200k annual sry. Even by the standards of ten yearster, even if you passed the civil service exam, your initial sry would begin at $30k. The sry he was offering was almost a whopping 7x the civil servant sry, and this was just the initial pay.


    Of course, benefits are also included, and even though it is a little tricky to give you exact numbers now, the rate of sry increase will be very high. Continuing, Kim Kangchul said, I can tell you right now that such an outstanding offer is the first andst of its kind. What would you like to do?


    Do I have to make a decision right now?


    No. However, we would like you to make a decision as fast as possible.


    Team Leader Kim Kangchul seemed to have thought I would ept the offer, no questions asked. To be fair, for the standards of ordinary folk, the conditions were indeed incredible. People hadnt quite figured out what new tech really was yet, so a $200k annual sry was ahead of its time.


    Before leaving, he informed me that a gathering of yers was being held tomorrow and gave me an invitation ticket. With that, my meeting with Kim Kangchul ended.


    Goodbye. I will contact you shortly.


    After seeing Kim Kangchul off, I chuckled.


    Just $200k?


    Kim Kangchul aside, I was sure that Song Kiyoung had already seen the value of new tech. And yet, $200k was all he could offer. There was probably no malice in it, but it felt like he was taking me a little too lightly.


    Though, well, I wouldnt have epted even if it were $2 million and not $200k.


    I already had an Amplification Mana Crystal in my possession, an object that wouldmand a $10 million price tag in three years. Actually, it wasnt a matter of money. My decision also had to do with my ss, as well as my contracted Guardian.


    The Nameless Guardian doesnt want me to do things in the limelight.


    I didnt know what the Nameless Guardian wanted from me. But for now, I knew they wanted me in the back rather than the front, to y while maintaining the position of an observer.


    For now, Ill go along with that.


    The guildmaster of Taeguk Shield wouldmand a great deal of authority, but the position would alsoe with many responsibilities. I would be tied to Sungshin. It might help with the things I was trying to achieve, but it was more likely that the position would hinder me.


    Im going to y at my pace, my way.


    I decided to participate in the 1st yers Convention tomorrow. I already knew what would happen. I would also be able to meet the Typhoon, Jo Sunghyun, at the convention.


    If things go like in the past Ill also be able to decide exactly how to proceed with my ying.


    I started preparing for tomorrow.


    * * *


    * * *


    Senia. Senia. Senia. Senia. Senia.


    No matter how much I called her, she didnt answer. The darned angel wasnt streaming me at the moment, it seemed. There was something I absolutely had to tell her before going to the convention, but I couldnt reach her. I had no choice but to make an appointment with Yeonseo, since Yeonseo said she was with her Streamer, Roa.


    In that respect, Senia should learn a little from Roa.


    Roa was marvelously diligent. It wasnt like Yeonseo was doing a dungeon clear or anything, but Roa was still streaming her. Its because Roa was so earnest that she was sessfulter.


    It was 11 p.m. We agreed to meet in front of Hongdae University Station, Exit 9. Even though it was prettyte and it was Wednesday night, the ce was bustling. But among the crowd, one person was radiating an obviously overwhelming presence.


    Hyuuuuungnimmmmm!


    That person was So Yoohyun. With his nearly 2-meter tall massive frame and biceps the size of an average adults head, the sight of him barreling towards me was almost like a furious wild boars charge.


    Ah, shit.


    Getting a bad feeling that he would pull me into a crushing bear hug, I dodged him ever so slightly. Though I managed to barely avoid him, I ended up in another minefield.


    I thought you died!


    I dodged Yoohyun, but Yeonseo appeared out of nowhere next to him. She hade up to me extremely quickly, so I guessed she used Heavenly Demonic Flying Step. As true as it was that Id had my guard down, she found an opening all too easily. Simply put, I was hugged by Yeonseo. Against my will.


    ...Oi. Not letting go?


    I was super worried, okay? I thought you died. Do you know how nervous you made me by being unreachable for three months?


    And then, she broke into a bright grin, like she could finally feel relief after physically confirming I was alright. I felt extremely strong feelings from her.


    State: Relieved / Happy / Joyful


    Hold on, we were honestly not that close. We werent even lovers, nor were we blood-rted. Why in the world was she so happy? But I was certain that Yeonseos feelings werent a pretense or a lie. What I was feeling through Eye of Perception was her sincerity. Her sincerity wasnt all that bad.


    Feels strange.


    I never would have thought that there would be people other than my family who would be so happy about my life or death.


    Shes already gone up to level 32?


    She made it to level 32 without any strats, increasing her level twice in three months. Two level ups in the Hell Phase in just three months was actually a lot, since the stretch between level 30-40 was extremely difficult to break through.


    Yoohyun is also level 32.


    Geniuses were certainly geniuses, alright. Sunhwa was also level 31. All three of them would be able to level up much faster if they used the strategy with me.


    But first, I have to get through tomorrow well.


    At around 11 p.m. at night, we went to a small bar near Hongdae.


    The time I spent with Yoohyun and Yeonseo wasnt that bad. No, it wasnt just not bad, but enjoyable.


    It feels pretty great.


    I hadnt been able to enjoy this kind of leisure before. Yeonseo, whose face was a little red from drinking beer,ughed from the belly.


    Ah, I dunno. It just happened, ok!


    They were telling me about when Yoohyun fell t on his face, and both of them looked truly happy. I didnt have to look with Eye of Perception. Even with my bare eyes, they looked really happy.


    This is nice.


    It wasnt anything special, just a casual drink with friends. This trivial and ordinary experience waspletely new to me.


    Hold on, hyungnim. It wasnt like that. There just so happened to be a slippery trap right there


    After some time, Senia finally showed up. Seeing as Yeonseo and Yoohyun didnt react, she set it so that only I could see her.


    Roa is probably working hard to stream, even now.


    It seemed Senia came over after seeing that. <i>Take notes from Roa. The more diverse your content, the better. There are definitely viewers out there who want to see not just bloody ying, but also this sort of trivial everyday life. Watch and learn, Senia.</i>


    Yeonseo waved at us.


    You dont have to drop me off! See you tomorrow!


    The sight of her walking off humming to herself in perfectly good cheer was a bit cute, but it didnt even ur to me that she would need to be dropped off. Even though this was a beginner Shin Yeonseo, Shin Yeonseo was still Shin Yeonseo. What could possibly endanger her?


    Hyungnim! See you tomorrow!


    See you tomorrow.


    I turned around. Senia was there. Actually, the reason why I met up with Yeonseo was to call Senia. Now that the fun times were over, it was time to get down to business.


    Senia.


    From here on out, this was the real issue at hand.


    Listen carefully. Tomorrow, Im going to participate in the formal convention hosted by the yers Association.


    Just as our business talk began, Senia opened her mouth.


    yer Kim Hyukjin.


    Senia brought up something I hadnt even hoped to hear from her, in verymendable fashion.


    ____


    ____

 Chapter 67: 1st Players Convention (2)

    Chapter 67: 1st yers Convention (2)


    <b>Chapter 67: 1st yers Convention (2)</b>


    I put my phone to my ear. Of course, there wasnt anyone on the line. Other people couldnt see Senia right now. If I spoke to the empty air, people would think I was insane, so I pretended to be on a call while I walked home.


    Senia spoke first.


    Allow me to notify you that my channel is currently closed.


    In other words, the Guardians werent watching us right now. It appeared that Senia had taken my earlier words to heart. Always showing the same stuff with the same method would reduce both the excitement and the enjoyment. Streaming to the Guardians with a slightly more diverse, slightly different pattern was the job of a Streamer and a sign of their skill.


    It sounds to me that you want to coordinate with me for the event tomorrow.


    I am simply considering more diverse directing methods.


    Thats right. That was the way.


    For now, just tickle the Guardians curiosity.


    The yers Convention was a man-made gathering being held in the Korean server for the first time. It was a different sort of spectacle from System-made ying. There had to be quite a lot of Guardians who wanted to see it, and it would be even better if there were some kind of conflict or dispute thrown in.


    She stopped filming, huh.


    Among Streamers, this move was called Sudden Cut or Sudden Cliffhanger, but those terms werent yet established.


    After exciting their curiosity, shell start streaming again tomorrow.


    Moreover, there were probably a few things she wanted to consult me about right now, which was something I wanted to do as well.


    Senia, youve really grown.


    It felt like just yesterday she was frozen and helpless against the Streamer Neptune, but she was picking things up quickly. At this rate, she would probably be able to earn her keep pretty well.


    Did you meet with yer Yeonseo in order to call me?


    Correct. Because Yeonseo was with Roa.


    Senia had be a lot smarter. She was even able to figure out why I met up with Yeonseo.


    There must be a reason why.


    I nodded. As you know, tomorrows the yer Convention. This isnt a scenario set by the System, but a choice humans have made in response to the new world.


    With that, our conversation continued for about one hour.


    Understood, even though what you say is far too detailed, even for something you have deduced through Precognitive Dream.


    Senia looked a little doubtful. Over one hour of conversation, I gave Senia a lot of tips. I told her in advance what would happen tomorrow and what she had to do.


    Look a little further ahead, not just at the here and now. Its best to use yourbined experience of various situations to predict what will happen before they happen. Dont you think youll be able to make good quality content that way?


    ...


    Senia seemed to be struck speechless. In any case, our conversation wrapped up nicely. All that was left was for Senia to do her job as a Streamer, and for me to do mine as a yer.


    We reached my house, the DMC Riverview Xi. One way or another, Senia kind of ended up bringing me home.


    ...Understood. I shall wait and see if the scenario yer Kim Hyukjin predicts is correct.


    Her words carried a slight edge of warning, perhaps because I had talked to her in such a lecturing tone. It was reasonable for her to feel displeasure. But what could she do? She might have improved a little, but she was still a newbie Streamer. From the viewpoint of someone who had ten years of experience, she was far too shabby a Streamer. There was so much she had to learn.


    You seem a little doubtful. With a grin, I provoked her. Wanna bet?


    ...


    If youre scared, forget it.


    Are you provoking me right now?


    <i>Yeah, I am.</i>


    Think of it however you please.


    After thinking for a long time, Senia said, What will be the conditions of the bet?


    As expected of our angel Senia, she was really easy to bait.


    Open the intermediate-grade Item Shop for me.


    That was obviously not possible. I was still only level 30. To open the intermediate-grade Item Shop, you had to be over level 40. Even I knew it wasnt possible.


    That is an excessive demand. It is impossible.


    Then how about one time?


    ...


    I proposed something entirely excessive at first, then followed it with a more practical condition.


    Thats


    Forget it if you dont want to.


    ...I ept.


    <i>Thats right, of course you would. I knew you would ept.</i>


    What do you want? I asked.


    I will tell you that if I win the bet.


    I almost snorted. Guess I didnt need to hear what it was, since I would be winning anyway. I went up the elevator, which reached the 10th floor.


    <i>Ding!</i>


    The door is opening.


    Number 1004. Our house. The ce where Mom, Noona, and Sunhwa were waiting. I suddenly felt happier. It was like I was slowly getting a grasp on my future. It was a feeling I hadnt been able to experience before. A sense of achievement, a desire to challenge the trials ahead, and the happiness ofing back home.


    Every time I saw our house, all of the changes that had urred struck me anew.


    Lets do our best tomorrow, Senia.


    * * *


    * * *


    The yers Association made under Sungshins lead was in the DMC, the Digital Media City. It was within walking distance of our house.


    As expected, the Association was put here.


    Later on, even once the Association became a government institution, the building was still in the same spot.


    Its a government institution in name, but there were a lot of rumors that it was actually a tool of Sungshin.


    I was able to verify that those rumors were true after seeing Kim Kangchul. It didnt have that much to do with me, but it did make me a little bitter. The phrase Republic of Sungshin didnt exist for nothing.


    That means theyll probably do rank measurements today, too.


    The ranks would be evaluated with a method that was absurd by future standards. It was fine to see the yer ranks determined now aspletely meaningless.


    The concept of talent tes hasnt been established yet.


    There was no concept of talent tes, or magic, for that matter. The ranks would be set by evaluating physical factors. For example, things like running or grip strength. They would measure yer ability with the same methods used to evaluate athletes, a ridiculous method ording to future standards.


    Yes. I do not wish to receive a rank evaluation.


    A rank evaluation can be very favorable for the yer. Many avenues will be opened up to you if you gain a high rank. Even if you get a low rank, it wont be of any harm to you.


    Its fine.


    If you do not want to go through the rank evaluation, are you okay with being given an F-rank for the time being?


    Yes, thats fine.


    What use was there in getting a rank that would be obsolete soon anyway? I didnte here to submit myself to long-distance running or push ups.


    Hyungnim! I got an A!


    Me too!


    Like the Fist King and Sword Empress they were, Yoohyun and Yeonseo received As from the very beginning. Seriously, people who could seed in whatever they did sure were on a different level. Sunhwa also went through the rank evaluation with them, but she got a C.


    It was 2:20 p.m. The convention would start at 3 p.m. The Main Hall on the 12th floor was already bustling. The four of us went down to the cafe on the 1st floor to wait.


    Its alright, its alright.


    I patted the sullen Sunhwa. Figures, how would they even evaluate her tanking qualities, anyway? They could hardly stab her arm with a knife or take a hammer to her head. Such a result was inevitable.


    Its alright, C is better than my F.


    I didnt say that it was because F was the rank given if you refused the evaluation, but it still wasnt a lie. What kind of score would I get?


    I think Id also get an A.


    I wasnt sure, and I didnt have that much interest in a rank evaluation done with apletely meaningless method.


    Really? Oppa got an F?


    Yeonseo and Yoohyuns eyes widened as well.


    Come on, thats ridiculous. You, an F?


    Thats ridiculous, hyungnim!


    Of course it was. I chuckled in spite of myself.


    Youre right, its ridiculous. Because they used a ridiculous evaluation method, only the yers inbat sses will have gotten a high rank.


    Apparently greatlyforted by my words, Sunhwa slurped the chocte shake wed ordered with enthusiasm, as if she could forget the shock of getting a C-rank with the taste of chocte.


    Yeonseo grinned widely. Thats true. Well, nothing more needs to be said if you got an F. The rank measuring method is a hundred percent wrong. A monster like Kim Hyukjin getting an F? Gosh darnit. Here I was, getting all happy for nothing that I got an A.


    Seriously, hyungnim. This rank has zero meaning.


    While we were waiting on the 1st floor, I constantly checked the yersing through. One of the yers I saw was a man with a huge physique no inferior to Yoohyun, and a shy tattoo covering his right arm. His whole aura was screaming, Mess with me and youll get hurt.


    The Brown Bear, Kim Taechun.


    His current level was 28.


    What a funny summary.


    Summary: Self-Proimed Predator Seeking Prey


    He was one of the starting pieces for what would be happening today.


    Wheres Jo Sunghyun?


    I kept looking, but I didnt see him. Instead of Jo Sunghyun, someone ran helter-skelter through the 1st floor.


    Uwah! I was almostte!


    After seeing us, he immediately ran our way. His breathlessness made him seem a little out of shape.


    Goodness, look who it is. Isnt this our mighty hero who was unreachable for three months?


    State: dness / Having Fun / Relief


    Choi Sung-gu also joined the fray. From what I heard, Sung-gu also got much closer to the others, or something like that. Sunhwa had introduced him, and they had gone through the Seoul Station Dungeon a few times together. Theyd also cleared a few gates together.


    Can I kiss you to celebrate your safe return? Wh-whoa there. Alright, sorry, sorry. Cmon man, do you really need to give me the death stare?


    It seemed Sung-gu was still under the protection of the Giant of the Sunset. I couldnt read his information with Eye of Perception. However, since he had used the Vulcan Body Tome, had the Person of Fire title, and three months passed, with his degree of talent, he had probably grown quite a lot. And my prediction was correcthe said he was level 31. He was indeed high level.


    It was now 2:40 p.m. Sung-gu said, Im alreadyte, so I think I wont be able to get the rank evaluation. Was it on the 12th floor? Lets go!


    Wait.


    As I thought, what I remembered was correct.


    Jo Sunghyun.


    That person wasing in. The young maning through the 1st floor revolving door was tall and had a slender frame. He was wearing a school uniform and looked to be a high school student.


    His current age is 18.


    His talent tes wouldnt bepletely open yet. Of course, he wasnt the Typhoon he would be in the future.


    Current time, 2:45 p.m.


    It was about time for Senia to show herself. Sure enough, just like we arranged ahead of time, Senia appeared.


    [Channel #19207 has opened.]


    The caf on the 1st floor, 2:45 p.m. The high schooler Jo Sunghyun who had juste into the 1st floor. And Kim Taechun, the self-styled predator lurking around in search of prey.


    Lets watch for a bit, shall we?


    Just then, I heard a notice.


    [The Nameless Guardian is greatly satisfied with your observing.]


    [The Nameless Guardian has sent you a 300 Coin sponsorship.]


    My act of watching was interpreted by the Nameless Guardian as observing. Well, it was all good, since it meant the Guardian I had a direct contract with was looking at me in a good light. After all, I would have to keep the contract with this Guardian until at least level 50.


    As I watched, I sensed it.


    Its starting.


    Right here and now, the Typhoon would be making his first move.


    ____


    ____

 Chapter 68: 1st Players Convention (3)

    Chapter 68: 1st yers Convention (3)


    <b>Chapter 68: 1st yers Convention (3)</b>


    I tried remembering everything I knew about the Typhoon, Jo Sunghyun.


    Someone who defeated the Sword Empress Shin Yeonseo in a one-on-one and the only formal magic ss yer.


    As his name suggested, Sunghyun was a mage who used wind.


    His talent tes haventpletely opened yet, and


    In the early days of ying, it was inevitable that magic sses were overshadowed by closebat sses. Mages were very weak in the early period, and their starting difficulty was extremely high. But if they seeded and made it big, they had incredible killing power and destructive force.


    At least in the beginning, hes no match for Kim Taechun.


    Before I regressed, it wasmonly known that Taechun purposefully picked a fight with Sunghyun at this time. Taechun never said from his own mouth why, but people were pretty sure that was the case.


    Theres a high chance its a quest from the courage-lover.


    The Brown Bear Kim Taechuns contracted guardian was none other than the Courageous Lion King. As one might expect from the Courageous Lion Kings personality, he often issued quests that went along the lines of Show your courage, and Taechun carried out such quests faithfully. He also had an aptitude for it.


    Just as nned, I will make Sunghyun my ally.


    Only then could I safely get through this day and make things happen the way I wanted. While I was thinking, I briefly met Taechun in the eyes.


    [Eye of Perception recognizes some weak hostility.]


    I couldnt suppress a smirk. Weak hostility, huh. He wasnt at the point of being able to exude bloodthirst yet. At most, he could only let out hostility.


    Ive been caught on your radar, you say?


    Right now, what Taechun wanted was to be in the position of a predator who could show their courage. That meant his victim couldnt be much weaker than him, nor could they be much stronger.


    If he looked at me that means I look like the best target out of our party, I suppose.


    Good, that was excellent.


    For now, Yeonseos been underestimated.


    Yeonseo was too delicate a girl at least on the outside.


    Needless to say, Sunhwa has been as well.


    In all actuality, gender or age werent all that big an issue when it came to ying, as long as you were in your early 20s or younger, since all your talent tes would be open at that point. However, the current Taechun wouldnt think that way, so the potential targets were narrowed down to Yoohyun, Sung-gu, and me.


    And out of the three of us, I look like the easiest target.


    Eye of Perception made me very certain of that. He hadnt picked a fight with me, but if Sunghyun hadnt shown up right at this moment, he would have jumped at any opportunity to make trouble with me.


    Summary: Self-Proimed Predator Seeking Prey


    That self-proimed predator had found his prey, a perfect prey called Jo Sunghyun.


    * * *


    Even as Senia streamed the situation unfolding before her, she found it difficult to believe. She recalled what Hyukjin had said to herst night.


    <i>Suppose theres a guy who wants to draw attention. The easiest way to do so is to fight someone. Its simple and easy to make that happen, and its the sort of material that Guardians like.</i>


    That, Senia could agree with. There were always one or two yers like that, after all.


    <i>If they pick a fight with someone, the target wont be too strong or too weak.</i>


    Senia was seeing that with her own two eyes right now. The yer called Kim Taechun purposefully picked a fight with the yer called Jo Sunghyun.


    Oi. If you hit someone, you should apologize.


    <i>And suppose again that Choi Sung-gu was watching; he wouldnt be able to let it go. Hes got a pretty strong sense of justice, as well as a fiery temperament.</i>


    Senia continued to stream the situation. After ring at Kim Taechun, Jo Sunghyun simply turned around. Taechun yelled, Oi, you little shit. Stop right there.


    <i>Then in the end, Sung-gu and that person would sh.</i>


    <i>The situation you have cooked up is quite detailed. The longer you spend describing this situation, the less likely itll happen.</i>


    And yet, Sung-gu really did step forward.


    Hey! What are you doing with this kid!


    <i>Its a really good situation, dont you think? The sort of situation Guardians will also find amusing.</i>


    <i>Is it not a product of excessive imagination?</i>


    Even for a Precognitive Dream user, Senia thought it was too fictitious.


    <i>You already agreed to make the bet, so hear me out all the way.</i>


    <i>Go ahead. I will listen.</i>


    And how were things turning out? It was all happening like Hyukjin said yesterday.


    <i>If it gets to that point, the picture will almost beplete.</i>


    Taechun would pick a fight with Sunghyun, and Sung-gu would jump in the middle, unable to simply watch.


    <i>Then whatll happen next is the guys Streamer will get involved. Their yer made the opportunity, so the Intermediate Administrator has to fan the mes, right?</i>


    <i>...</i>


    <i>If I were an Intermediate Administrator, I would absolutely open a PVP zone.</i>


    Sure enough


    [A PVP Zone has been dered.]


    With that appeared a humanoid figure with the head of a rhinoceros. Senias wingtips trembled. Even though she was streaming, she couldnt take her eyes off Kim Hyukjin.


    * * *


    * * *


    Hyukjin knew that Percy would dere a PVP zone. In a PVP zone, you couldnt die, even if you were killed. It was a field with a built-in revival function.


    [A PVP Zone has been dered.]


    [In the current field, pain will be registered.]


    [When the PVP request is made and epted, the PVP match will begin.]


    Of the types of PVP fields, pain exists in this one.


    This was a field where pain could be felt. You wouldnt die, but you would feel the pain of death in its totality.


    Whyre you messing with the yer Im streaming, huh?


    Percy didnt have much respect for humans. He only saw them as ways to make money.


    Trash like you needs to be swept away.


    The current Sung-gu was no match for Percy. To spur on this situation, Percy would leave Sung-gu half dead, clearing the way for Taechun to show as much courage as he wanted to the terrified yers.


    So now


    Hyukjin nced behind him, urging Senia to make her entrance.


    Intermediate Administrator Percy. It appears that you are about to use coercive force on a yer. Am I correct?


    And who the hell are you?


    Percy spat onto the ground.


    <i>Szzzz!</i>


    His green saliva steamed on the ground. The yers gathered nearby whispered amongst each other.


    Wh-Whats happening?


    Shh. Be quiet. You could get killed if an Intermediate Administrator looks at you wrong.


    Shh, shh. Lets just watch from afar.


    Senia was not shaken. She continued to speak, uncowed. I, too, know the unwrittenw that Intermediate Administrators should not greatly interfere in each others matters.


    Then whats with this ridiculous interference?! Move aside. I need to proceed with my content.


    However, this is an issue rted to the absolute Commandments of the System. Why are you trying to use coercive force on a yer without justified reason?


    Hyukjin found himself smiling. It looked like Senia regretted not having been able to say anything in front of Neptunest time. She had learned and grown quite a lot. As a Streamer, she was still a greenling, but it did feel like she went up quite a few levels.


    Is that something you need to know?


    Yes. yer Choi Sung-gu is one of the yers I am focusing on.


    ...


    Hyukjin didnt know how long Senia had been focusing on Sung-gu, but Percy would have noeback for that. Well done, Senia.


    Senia would block any Intermediate Administrator interference. The PVP zone was established, and Percy wouldnt be able to jump forward and usher things along. That was Senias roleto make sure that thugs like Percy wouldnt be able to screw around.


    The Guardians were probably watching this situation, too.


    The Courageous Lion King must be watching right now.


    Now then. The picture was all finished. The Courageous Lion King was a courage-addled courage-lover who wanted to see the courage of yers. Thanks to Senia stepping forward, Percy could no longer give the situation a strong push. In such a situation, I knew what the Courageous Lion King would do.


    Hell definitely give Taechun a quest, telling him to fight with me, since the PVP zone is already established and its a good opportunity.


    [Feeling strongpetitive spirit through Eye of Perception.]


    The Courageous Lion King was egging Taechun on to fight me, offering the weaker yer some kind of support at the same time.


    Senias wingtips trembled nonstop. Everything was happening so precisely ording to Hyukjins words that she would believe it if someone told her he had written the plot.


    <i>When that happens, Taechun will be impatient to have a PVP match with me.</i>


    yer Kim Taechun first started by picking a fight with Jo Sunghyun, then Choi Sung-gu. With all these eyes around them, it wouldnt be easy to make trouble with him, someone just sitting quietly on the sidelines.


    <i>So then, Percy will switch his focus to you, since he needs to get me involved somehow.</i>


    In fact, Senia hadnt put much importance on Hyukjins words yesterday. Even if he was a Precognitive Dream user, she thought he wouldnt be able to see in such detail. The only thing she was concerned about was what she should demand when she won the bet.


    Then is that Choi Sung-gu guy your exclusively contracted yer?


    That is not the case.


    Whos your exclusively contracted yer then?


    My exclusively contracted yer is


    Senias gaze moved towards Hyukjin. She didnt state him by name, but her look was answer enough.


    <i>Afterwards, hell request a PVP match with me.</i>


    Kim Taechun grinned, rubbing his tattooed arms. He had the habit of doing that when he was getting ready for a fight. In the meantime, Percy said to Senia, Fine, then. It cant be helped since youre bringing up the Commandments and all. As this guys exclusively contracted Intermediate Administrator, I request a PVP match with your exclusively contracted yer.


    Senia was silent for a moment.


    <i>What do you think? Of my hypothesis?</i>


    She recalled how Hyukjin said those wordsst night, grinning. She nearly got goosebumps.


    Whats wrong? Scared? Scared your yer will die miserably in front of all the Guardians? Huh?


    Percy snickered. Senia wasnt affected much by his sneering.


    From the beginning to the end.


    To Senia, it felt like Hyukjin had predictedno, <i>designed</i> this situation from beginning to end. It was a little terrifying now.


    Everything is happening as yer Kim Hyukjin predicted.


    How could this be? It felt to her that everything was in the palm of Hyukjins hand.


    He read the situation in this much detail based merely on the preposition that therell be a crazy yer and a crazy Intermediate Administrator here today.


    Kim Hyukjin was still weak. But his insight alone was unmatched. Senia had always known this, but she could be 100% sure of it today.


    In the entire world, throughout all of history, theres no yer with such a talent.


    Hyukjin was a genius among geniuses. She could only acknowledge that he was a genius who went far beyond the realm of geniuses.


    Did Percy and Taechun have any idea that their actions were all in line with Hyukjins blueprint and picture?


    Yesterday, Hyukjin said the following to her:


    <i>If something like that happens this is what you need to do.</i>


    Senia decided to act exactly as Hyukjin said.


    ____


    ____

 Chapter 69: 1st Players Convention (4)

    Chapter 69: 1st yers Convention (4)


    <b>Chapter 69: 1st yers Convention (4)</b>


    Yesterday, Hyukjin said the following:


    <i>Refuse him. Its fine if it makes me look a little cowardly. Im not a directbat ss, anyway.</i>


    <i>...What?</i>


    <i>What? Its true. Im not abat ss.</i>


    It wasnt a lie. He really wasnt a directbat ss even though he did win a 1-on-1 PVP match against Shin Yeonseo. In any case, it <i>was </i>technically true that he wasnt a directbat ss.


    <i>But if someone like that really shows up Hell probably keep pestering endlessly for a PVP match, and a lot of Guardians will agree with that. PVP is content that Guardians go wild for.</i>


    If that happened, the mood would make it tough topletely refuse a PVP.


    <i>So make someone other than me fight in the PVP.</i>


    Hyukjin knew the best person for thatthe future Sword Empress, the strongest yer in 1-on-1 duels, Shin Yeonseo.


    <i>Yeonseo would be a good fit.</i>


    <i>...I understand. If the situation truly urs like yer Kim Hyukjin says, I will act like you have said.</i>


    And after saying that, Senia continued.


    <i>...Very well. Ill wait and see if yer Kim Hyukjins excessively detailed scenario will actually happen.</i>


    They even made a bet.


    <i>If things happen like you say, I will open the intermediate-grade Item Shop one time for you.</i>


    But it actually happened. With one mistake, a massive pile of Coins flew away. Senia resolved to never make a bet with Hyukjin ever again.


    I refuse the PVP match. My exclusively contracted yer is a nonbat ss. He is not suited for a 1-on-1 PVP match. Senia spoke quickly, seizing the initiative in the conversation with Percy. However, I will select a teammate who can carry out the match in his stead, if she agrees.


    As soon as Yeonseo heard she, she jumped forward.


    Me! Me! Me-me-me-me!


    Yeonseo actually thought she wouldnt have the chance, since she figured Hyukjin would take care of it. However, Hyukjin was ruled out of the PVP with the ridiculous reason of hes not abat ss, and now, she held the dice.


    Hyukjin took a look at Yeonseos summary.


    Summary: Two-Faced Swordsman Aspiring to Be a Wife


    Hyukjin almost tilted his neck in spite of himself.


    Something about this summary is weird again?


    A swordsman aspiring to be a wife. Something about it was a little weird. Wife? Did that mean there was a husband somewhere? Somehow, all the summaries of the people around him were strange. That aside, just as he expected, Yeonseo was full of fighting spirit at the moment.


    Because Yeonseo is a yer who enjoys 1-on-1 PVP.


    She was the type of yer who really enjoyed 1-on-1 PVP, to the point that it wasnt an exaggeration to say that the future Sword Empress grew strong through PVP.


    You heard her, right?


    Hyukjin took a step back, and Yeonseo took a confident step forward.


    Nice, I was itching for some PVP.


    Yeonseo rolled her neck and shoulders, loosening her muscles. Her heheing appearance made her look every bit a kind and cute university student. However, the moment she grasped her sword, her aura wouldpletely change. Hyukjin knew that very well.


    Two-faced swordsman.


    Yeonseo, whose growth was elerated by ying with him, was a yer contracted with the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain, one who had already reached the realm of being one with the sword.


    Kim Taechun gave a dumbfoundedugh. Men are hiding behind a woman, huh? Can you guys still call yourselves men? Youre nothing but dogs, you fucking trash.


    And so, the PVP match between Yeonseo and Taechun began, and the result was obvious. As soon as the match started, Yeonseo moved rapidly, stopping in front of Taechun.


    What the heck, so boring. Whys this dude so weak?


    The tip of Yeonseos sword rested on Taechuns throat. If she thrust forward with a little strength, his neck would be severed. It looked like the match would end that way.


    * * *


    I hadnt just predicted today. I drew out todays situation, and I understood exactly what I had to do within that canvas.


    Observers Eye.


    There was no better opportunity to practice using Observers Eye to ascertain the situation. Having decided to give myself more time to research more about the Observer ss, I read this PVP match precisely.


    Over in one. Taechun does look a little unreconciled.


    Although Taechun looked very unreconciled with the result, there were actually a lot of nuances in Yeonseos movement.


    Though youd need the eye to see it.


    The current Taechun probably wasnt able to read the entirety of Yeonseos movement. For him, things simply ended with a cry of rm, and she was there.


    This is Observers Eye.


    I could perceive Yeonseos movements more precisely than when I looked with my physical eyes. With a little exaggeration, it felt as if I could even see the movement of each of her muscles under her clothes. When she twisted, I saw the rotation start from the bottoms of her feet and go up her legs into her body.


    As expected Its not a simple eye for observing alone.


    She twisted to dodge Taechunsrge axe. Then, she activated her footwork technique, and Observers Eye read the technique in detail.


    A distance at which Taechuns axe wont reach. The angle at which he cannot swing. She aimed precisely for his blind spot and narrowed the distance.


    Yeonseo was at least one step ahead of Taechun in this closebat fight, and I saw it all.


    I can see the flow of mana.


    My proficiency was only 1, so I couldnt see it precisely, but I could feel the rough strokeshow it was flowing, what kind of mana was moving, and how it was affecting the body.


    -Flow Perception: Visualize the flow of nature.


    This was the power of Observers Eye. Through it, I was able to see something Id read about in textbooks more clearly.


    If I get used to this and my proficiency goes up!


    Action Duplication: Copy the actions of an observation target (currently cannot be used).


    Not right now, but in the future, I would definitely be able to use the ability. From the observing I was doing now, I was able to grasp my own abilities a little more concretely.


    Taechun didnt look all that frightened of the sword resting on his throat.


    Its not over, you know?


    He moved the huge axe in his right hand to his left and swung it with all his strength.


    You have to kill your opponent to end it, you arrogant bitch!


    I chuckled. You think Yeonseo didnt expect that?


    I had already seen it with Observers Eye. The weak mana flowing in Yeonseos body was already heading towards her legs, meaning she had prepared to dodge in advance.


    Shes still the future Sword Empress.


    She did lose to Jo Sunghyun because of the bad matchup once, but she was still destined to be the strongest PVPer in both name and reality in the Korean server.


    Hold on a sec. Something suddenly urred to me. From here, in the position of an observer, I can see it well, but


    Normally, it was easy to see things when you took a step back. You might not be able to y ser, but you could easily offer advice while watching from afar.


    If I were really in the thick of it, would I be able to see other yers movements like just now? If I could know in advance that mana was concentrating in someones legs


    Then that would mean I could move while predicting the opponents movements, no? I would be able to react knowing how exactly they would move.


    Even if its not a yer


    It would be the same if the opponent were a monster. If I had eyes that could read the movements of muscles, the flow of mana, it meant I could assume a far more advantageous position in battle. The more experienced I became, the more marvelous the power of Observers Eye seemed to be.


    Its already this good even though the proficiency is only 1?


    I felt my heart thudding hard. If the proficiency went up a lot, I would be able to go much higher, even higher than I thought.


    This guys no good.


    Yeonseos sword plunged into the middle of Taechuns forehead.


    GAAAAAAGH! he screamed.


    [The PVP match has been concluded.]


    Taechun died on the spot. The shocking sight stunned everyone to silence, which was quickly broken by the shutters of the journalists who had gotten in on the action.


    S-Sir. Can we really broadcast this? Its a murder.


    For now, keep shooting. Did you get it? Answer me!


    A few yers began to whisper as well.


    Isnt this murder?


    But then, they witnessed a miracle. Kim Taechuns body looked like it was bing dust and disappearing, and at the same time, the body began to glow and became sparkling particles of light. Those particles began to reform into a whole, healthy body.


    A-Amazing!


    H-H-He came back to life!


    Camera shes went off nonstop. The likes of the yers Convention wasnt important right now. Everyone had just witnessed the miraculous sight of someone dying and being revived in a PVP match.


    Wh-What Im seeing right now is the truth, right?


    No way, no way.


    What do you mean, no way? There are monsters, Streamers, and the world has changed. This is the world after the Cataclysm.


    While the crowd was murmuring in awe, I heard a different notice.


    [EXP acquired.]


    If I hunted directly, I couldnt get EXP.


    But it also meant that even if I didnt do anything and just sat around, my EXP would rise.


    [Detailed Exnation]<ol><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Skill name: Observers Domain (Current proficiency: 1)</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Skill effect:<ul><li aria-level="2" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Creates a field where Observers Eye takes effect.</li><li aria-level="2" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">For party y, EXP +50%</li></ul></li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Range: 5 meters</li></ol>


    EXP +50% for party y. Add onto that the title I already had, First Pioneer, with its +20% EXP effect, and I had a +70% EXP boost in total.


    The System apparently recognized this as a party y. Every time a party y was recognized, I would get about 20% additional EXP.


    Its 20% additional EXP because the EXP is shared half and half with Yeonseo.


    For example, if we worked together in a party to kill a monster with 100 EXP, killing it would give us 120 EXP. If we had both contributed the same amount, that 120 EXP would be divided in half, with each person getting 60 EXP.


    If I get the additional 70% bonus here


    I would get an extra 42 EXP of that 60, which added up to 102 EXP. To sum it up in simple terms, Im actually getting more than if I PVPed on my own?


    And it didnt just apply to PVP. When hunting, when clearing dungeons, it would be the same. Simply put, just watching from the back would me the same reward as engaging in back-breakingbor in the front.


    Isnt this amazing?


    This seemed to be the true value of the Observer ss.


    Is this really okay?


    It was kind of like stealing nearly half of Yeonseos EXP even though I didnt lift a finger. Just as my thoughts were going that way, I heard someone pping.


    Goodness, how very impressive. The beautifuldy over there, youre at an incredible level, arent you? You were a marvel to behold.


    Someone who wasnt a part of the picture Id been drawing suddenly showed up, and the situation began to move in a way I hadnt predicted.


    Huh?


    Looking down, I saw [!!!] marks appear over Darongis head.


    ____


    ____

 Chapter 70: 1st Players Convention (5)

    Chapter 70: 1st yers Convention (5)


    <b>Chapter 70: 1st yers Convention (5)</b>


    I didnt know this person would show up here, but he was a yer I knew.


    [yer]


    Name: Gu Sungmin


    Age: 31


    Level: 19


    ss: Coin Thief


    Innate ability: [Wallet Perception]


    State: Excited / Expectant / Nervous


    Disposition: Selfish / Quick-witted / Bold


    Summary: Promising Thief Thirsty for Coins<ul><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Guardian has not yet been selected.</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">The disposition/state/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    It was Gu Sungmin, a Coin-specializing thief whod gone around swindling beginner yers out of Coins in the early days of ying. I remembered him as the most famous thief yer in the early period.


    And hes got an innate ability of his own, too.


    That was why he was able to rob so many yers of their money.


    Wallet Perception, huh.


    From the looks of it, he could roughly see how many Coins were in a yers inventory. Since this was the early period of ying, he might not know the exact figure, but he could probably determine who in the room had the greatest number of Coins.


    Currently, the person with the most Coins is


    There was a good chance it was me, since I had about 13,000 Coins at the moment. Sure enough, Gu Sungmins gaze flitted to me. He wasnt staring at me, but he was definitely keeping me in sight.


    Sungmin drew the attention of the crowd with his characteristic slyugh and exaggerated pping.


    Its not just your face that is beautiful, but also your skills.


    He came closer.


    Hrmmm?


    Many early yers experienced the strange phenomenon of the Coins in their Inventory suddenly dropping to 0. If Gu Sungmin hadnt done the braindead act of revealing that he was a thief yer, those Coin losses might have remained a mystery for an eternity.


    He often bragged about all the foreign cars he had, and then


    He made a drunk post on Instagram detailing exactly how he earned his money.


    Looks like hes trying to draw attention,e to me, and take my Coins.


    I saw his movements precisely. His mouth was busy with other things and he appeared to be paying attention solely to Yeonseo, but I could still see it. Just like how I could read Yeonseos sword path, somehow, I was simply able to see his intentions.


    But howe he cant see Darongi?


    [!!!] marks clearly appeared over Darongis head, but Gu Sungmin didnt seem to have much interest in Darongi. To be more exact, it didnt look like he could see Darongi.


    I think its because of his innate ability.


    For a frickin squirrel, he had an incredible amount of innate abilities.


    Innate abilities: [Pickup] [Pathfinding] [Gnawing] [Theft] [Subspace] [Big Belly] [Hole Digging] [Stealth] [Master Selection]


    Come to think of it, Darongis summary was nothing to scoff at, either.


    Summary: Gluttonous Theft Genius


    A promising thief met a theft genius. Darongi stared at me, the [!!!] marks shining red above his head. He seemed to want something from me, like he was asking, If I bring you a ton of Coins, whatll you give me?


    We couldnt converse, but we couldmunicate well enough.


    Fruit Bundle.


    Two words, and Darongi was off, moving as swiftly as an arrow.


    [Using the innate ability Theft.]


    [Coins have been acquired.]


    [Using the innate ability Subspace.]


    [Coins have been stored in the Subspace.]


    Gu Sungmin didnt notice Darongi at all.


    Are you fellows her party members?


    In the meantime, the obviously defeated Kim Taechun stealthily snuck away. Gu Sungmin was drawing the crowds attention away, so he left without another word.


    [Eye of Perception detects a foreign energy.]


    [Eye of Perception grasps the use of an innate ability.]


    I continued to stay where I was. I knew what he was trying to do. When I looked with Observers Eye, I could see that a bunch of mana was gathered around Gu Sungmins handhe seemed to be in the process of taking my Coins. I opened my Inventory to find that my Coins were slowly decreasing in amount.


    Wow.


    What a fun ability. To think he could really suck Coins from others, and even from a target that was over ten levels higher than him. He was indeed a promising thief.


    My friend is an incrediblypetent journalist Would you be willing to do an interview with us?


    What? N-No. Um, thats


    Yeonseo reddened. In the meantime, Darongi jumped onto Sungmins shoulder with Stealth activated and stared at me with [!!!] over his head. When I gave him a nod, Darongi snorted and waited, like he was shouting, Watch, Im this awesome!


    This is my business card. I really would like to interview you. Please contact me.


    The whole time, my Coins continued to dwindle. When the number hit 0, Darongi took action with terrifyingly impable timing like the theft genius he was.


    [Using the innate ability Theft.]


    [Coins have been acquired.]


    [Using the innate ability Subspace.]


    [Coins have been stored in the Subspace.]


    A [?] popped up above Darongis head. It was a message I could click. There really was no shortage of fascinating things when it came to this fellow.


    [As the one who has be Darongis master, you can ess Darongis Subspace.]


    [Currently, there are 47,000 Coins in Darongis Subspace.]


    I almostughed, dumbfounded. Just by sitting around, I was about toe into possession of 47k Coins. All it took to replicate this was to go to the store and buy a bunch of snacks that squirrels liked.


    -13,000 became +47,000 in mere moments. I obtained a whopping 34,000 while sitting down.


    Hah.


    Making money sure was easy. Thinking of how I got just 17 Coins from killing a level 25 Fanged Boar, this was one crazy amount of Coins to get in one go.


    And it looks like this guy doesnt even realize hes lost all the money in his Inventory.


    He gave a very polite farewell, like he had finished everything he needed to do here.


    I will get in contact with you at ater time.


    And then, he turned and left, which made me certain of it.


    He really doesnt know? Even though he was sure to have checked his Inventory? Wow.


    Darongi, this little squirrel, was the real deal.


    He really is a theft genius.


    I didnt know for sure, but I guessed that Darongi secretly put fake Coins into Gu Sungmins Inventory to fool him, if only temporarily. There was no other exnation. In any case, I rubbed the top of Darongis head with my finger after he returned to my shoulder. The boastful Darongi purred like a cat, enjoying the petting with [] marks.


    Just wait a little. Ill buy you a ton of the snacks you like.


    Hm? Boss, what are you saying? Whyre you talking about snacks all of a sudden?


    No, its nothing.


    Come to think of it, Yeonseo couldnt see Darongi, either. This little rascal had a real convenient ability.


    Hey, this kid says his name is Jo Sunghyun. He said thanks to me, so I told him to say thanks to you.


    ...


    The Typhoon Jo Sunghyun was the type of yer who didnt forget grudges, but also remembered favors even more clearly, to the point that he got the absolute good Lady of the Scales as his contracted Guardian.


    [yer]


    Name: Jo Sunghyun


    Age: 18


    Level: 30


    ss: Child of Wind


    Guardian: Lady of the Scales


    Innate ability: [Standstill]


    State: Gratitude / Closeness / Rage


    Disposition: Just / Strong Pride / Unyielding Spirit


    Summary: Not-Yet-Mature Incarnation of Hammurabi<ul><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">The disposition/state/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    His talent tes werentpletely open, but he was already level 30, and he had one innate ability.


    As expected of Jo Sunghyun.


    It was the same as the past. He made a contract with the Lady of the Scales.


    Jo Sunghyun bowed to me, saying, Thank you.


    Its nothing to be thankful about. That person earlier wasnt acting like a real adult.


    The Jo Sunghyun I knew from the future always said<i>, If an adult cannot act like an adult, theyre not a real adult.</i>


    As was par for the course for a yer contracted with the Lady of the Scales, he was one of the yers who put great importance on justice and principles, a yer who lived by the principle of an eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth.


    <i>If a person cannot act like a person, I will not treat them like one.</i>


    His mentality was probably the same right now. Even when he was appointed as one of Koreas 8 Heroes, he spoke politely, even to little kids.


    If Sunghyuns disposition is like that its probably best to speak politely to him.


    In any case, we exchanged proper greetings. Thanks to Taechun and Percys brilliant role(?), I was able to leave a good impression on Sunghyun.


    With that, the first step was done. It wasnt my intention, but I also got a bunch of Coins as a bonus. It would make the next steps a lot easier.


    Alright, next is


    Looking at Sunghyun, I said, You are a magician ss, correct?


    How do you know that?


    The way you moved when thatrge man was picking a fight didnt strike me as abat ss.


    ...Ah.


    You are not abat ss, but it looked to me that you were mentally prepared to some degree for a fight. From your body movements, you were ready to jump back and widen the distance.


    More than anything


    There was a weak wind in the room.


    * * *


    * * *


    There was a weak wind in the room.


    At those words, Yoohyun eximed in admiration, Hyungnim, just when did you pick up all that?


    Dammit, any way you slice it, this guys really a genius. When did you see all that? I was just spacing out.


    Yeonseo elbowed Yoohyun and Sung-gu in the ribs. Darn it, shut up, you two. You have to let him say these things so we can learn. Lets just pay attention.


    The journalists were clicking their shutters nonstop, broadcasting the current situation, but Yeonseo didnt pay any attention to the outsiders and focused on Hyukjins words.


    Which means, youre abat ss who doesnt use weapons or fights with your fists and feet, one who uses wind.


    There was only one ss like that.


    You must be abat magician, one specializing in wind.


    ...


    Like a yer in the early period, Jo Sunghyun naively nodded.


    Impressive.


    He looked calm on the outside as he nodded, but Sunghyun was feeling greatly shocked on the inside. It surprised him that there were adults who would step up in such a situation, and that there was a yer who could guess his ss from a few tiny movements.


    Of course, it wasnt just a guess. Hyukjin was looking at Sunghyuns ss very clearly.


    ss: Child of Wind


    For his 1st advancement, he got the Child of Wind ss. That wasnt a ss name Hyukjin remembered, but it wasnt hard to figure out that it was the 1st ss of the future Typhoon.


    As he exchanged greetings with Sunghyun, Hyukjin checked the time.


    Almost 2.


    Everything was settled with very appropriate timing. The yers Convention would soon begin.


    This is where it really begins.


    For now, Hyukjin seeded in bringing Sunghyun to his side, though it was hard to call him 100% an ally. But anyway, the first step was sessfully taken. In the event that would happen today, Jo Sunghyun could essentially be called a key person, and Hyukjin managed to make positive contact with that key person. It was all within his n.


    Would you like toe up with us? The convention is in the 12th floors main hall.


    Thank you.


    We got onto the elevator.


    1F, 2F, 3F


    The elevator moved quickly.


    Arriving on the 12th floor.


    The elevator doors are opening.


    The time right now


    Hyukjin nced at the clock on his phone.


    Its 2:03.


    He took a step forward.


    The notice ising.


    If things went the same as he remembered, there would definitely be one.


    [Entering the sh Gate, Hill of Blowing Wind.]


    This was the ce the Typhoonter said was responsible for his awakening. I stepped into the site of the 1st yers Convention, as well as the sh gate Hill of Blowing Wind.


    Well probably get a quest.


    During the 1st yers Convention, at least half of the participants died. Right here.


    If I can save them I will.


    Hyukjin thought back to the Tutorial Field, the convenience store safe zone. He could still vividly see the countless people who had died in front of him, separated by ss. If possible, he wanted to minimize the damage. As much as he could.


    While also awakening Jo Sunghyun.


    And along with those two goals, he would also obtain that.


    I have to get it without fail.


    In no time at all, the field changed, and he began to see countless people on the new field.


    Lets do this.


    ____


    ____

 Chapter 71: Hill of Blowing Wind

    Chapter 71: Hill of Blowing Wind


    <b>Chapter 71: Hill of Blowing Wind</b>


    I couldnt stop what was bound to happen.


    Even if it didnt happen today


    It would definitely happen eventually. A yers Convention would be scheduled one day, and during it, an event would certainly ur. Since that was the case, I decided it was best for me to use the knowledge I had and the factors I was capable of controlling to do my best.


    Im going in.


    [You have entered the sh Gate, Hill of Blowing Wind.]


    The field was arge hill. I looked around, seeing a crowd of yers that hadnt yet figured out what was happening.


    Even without knowledge of the future if you step back a little and think, its natural for something like this to happen.


    This was a ce full of yers in their beginning days, and most of the ones chosen in one way or another were here. With Streamers and Guardians alike watching, of course it would be a big event. It was the first gathering of yers independent of the System. It would be fun if something happened during it, no?


    Like what the Giant of the Sunset did.


    The Giant of the Sunset made the Shot Table Dungeon for Choi Sung-gu. The Guardian likely had to invest a massive amount of Coins to make it happen, all for his own amusement and pleasure. In other words, a Guardians extravagance. There were many Guardians who could afford such extravagance.


    They can easily make one sh gate.


    Actually, there was no way to check if it was a gate artificially made by a Guardian. I simply estimated that there was a high chance it was.


    Broken pirs.


    There were marble pirs broken at various heights. In the past, Jo Sunghyun once revealed the following:


    <i>There were eighteen broken pirs there.</i>


    As I was looking at the pirs, people discovered that Yoohyun had entered. Yoohyun had made several appearances on TV, so he was already famous.


    Huh? Isnt that the Tutorial Ender?


    It-Its So Yoohyun!


    Yoohyun instantly became the focus of the attention of the disoriented yers who were running around in confusion.


    Still, its much more disappointing than I thought.


    It might be the early days of ying, and only the 4th month since the Cataclysm, but this was too severe.


    Its already been three minutes since they came in.


    They were still running pell-mell. I didnt really see any yers who were trying to ascertain the terrain. Of course, the few yers Id nurtured were already calmly inspecting the surroundings and moving towards clearing the sh gate, but


    I dont see any yers with leadership.


    In most cases, and especially for a gate or dungeon whererge numbers of yers could join at the same time, it was nearly impossible to achieve a solo clear, even if you knew the strategy.


    I guess I cant expect too much from the early period, but still


    I would have still liked to see a few peoplee forward and round up the yers, dividing people into various roles based on each persons traits and ss. There was a stark absence of a leader, aka a sovereign. That was the biggest problem these guys were facing right now.


    Yoohyun. You take the public leader role.


    Wh-What?


    Why? Never did it before?


    During the three months while I was in the Forest of Unknowns, Yoohyun must have grown in his own way. As was befitting for the Tutorial Ender, he must have experienced being a leader several times, too. At a time like this, his Tutorial Ender fame would be verypelling.


    Th-Thats not the case, but How could I dare to when


    Basically, he was trying to say he couldnt dare take such a role when his mighty hyungnim was here.


    Im not famous. Do you think those guys will listen to me?


    The look in Yoohyun''s hesitant eyes changed a little. Like the phrase clothes make the man, the position you found yourself in changed how you behaved. When Yoohyun consideredmanding those people, his aura changed under the weight of the responsibility.


    Theres something off about this wind.


    Huh?


    Its weak, but the wind has mana in it. It feels different from a natural wind. If, by any chance, the wind starts blowing hard tell everyone to get t onto the ground. Multiple times. You can warn them multiple times. Because the wind uphill seems off, too.


    This was all I could do right now.


    ...Understood, hyungnim.


    I didnt think I could save everyone here. Even if I said that this and this is going to happen, so everyone listen to me, itd already be a blessing if I werent treated like a total lunatic.


    I cant save everyone.


    Someone, or some people, would definitely die. I would just do everything within my power.


    [Monsters are appearing.]


    A bleak wind blew in along with the notice. Many hero stories or promotional videos had been filmed based on what Jo Sunghyun said, and I remembered them all very clearly.


    <i>A weak wind began to blow. Following that, specter monsters appeared all over the ce. As you know, they were neutral monstersWraiths.</i>


    A slightly somber wind.


    Specter monsters, Wraiths.


    Their average level was around 20. The specter monsters floating around looked likerge seagulls. Other than the fact that physical attacks had no effect on them, they werent very strong monsters.


    Wraith LVL 21


    It-Its monsters.


    A few people even attempted to attack them.


    The attacks arent doing anything!


    We cant attack them!


    One of therge seagull-shaped monsters went from flying slowly to opening its wings wide and wrapping a yer within them. It then pecked the yers head with its beak.


    A-AAAGHH! screamed the yer.


    Does it hurt that bad?


    No, it shouldnt hurt that much. It was painful, yes, but the Wraiths attack shouldnt be that terribleit wasnt that strong of a monster.


    This is pathetic.


    I might have messed up a bit. I had cleared the Seoul Station Dungeon, which was supposed to break a few times, too quickly. The yers might have lost one of the ways in which they could be stronger.


    I heard a loud shout.


    ORYAAA!!!


    It reminded me of a record someone had written.


    <i>There was the sound of someone shouting Orya. It was Kim Taechun, who is now called the Brown Bear. He had just won an overwhelming victory in a PVP match against Jo Sunghyun and was full of confidence. It only took him eighty seconds to destroy one of the pirs with his huge axe.</i>


    There were eighteen broken pirs here. Every time one of the pirs was destroyed, there would be a slight change.


    A notice withrge arrows appeared over the entire field.


    []


    I quietly prepared myself. A strong wind would soon blow over the field, so strong you could hardly stay upright.


    <i>Wind began to blow. The yers had a hard time staying upright. We realized then that the arrows were showing the direction of the wind.</i>


    Before long, the wind picked up, starting to blow hard. I had to take care of my party members.


    Everyone, get t onto the floor.


    The wind was buffeting us so hard it was hard to remain standing.


    This isnt enough to send anyone flying.


    It was true that it was a very strong wind, but everyone gathered here were yers. They could resist a breeze of this level. However, it was good to respond with extra care, since there was no knowing when a whirlwind would strike. Every time a pir was broken, a strong wind with a different trajectory would blow.


    When some pirs are destroyed, the Central Pir will appear.


    When Jo Sunghyun was reminiscing about this time, he said


    <i>When we had destroyed seven pirs, a huge pir appeared. Its name was the Central Pir, and on top of it, there was a clue for the clear.</i>


    In any case, we had to destroy at least seven pirs.


    <i>Thinking back on it now, I think the ideal clear method might have been to destroy just twelve or thirteen pirs.</i>


    The more pirs were destroyed, the stronger the wind would be, and the more ferocious the Wraiths would be. New monsters would also appear, and countless people might lose their lives.


    Though the Central Pir gets lower the more pirs are destroyed


    Only one pir had been destroyed so far. A strong wind was blowing, but the Wraiths were still weak.


    And theyre still neutral monsters.


    Kim Taechun shrugged, lookingpletely confident. Raising his voice, he shouted, Seeing as the broken pirs are attackable, I think we need to do something about them!


    As if to show off his courage, he swung his axe and started hacking away at another pir.


    Pir of the Ruined Temple


    The pirs could be attacked. After hearing that, the other yers began to destroy the pirs using their own individual ways.


    I turned to Sung-gu. You hunt as many of the Wraiths as you can with magic.


    M-Me? Sung-gu trembled. Ah, fuck. Im scared of ghosts.


    But apparently, he must have known it wasnt the time to joke around, because after one full-body shudder, Sung-gu headed towards the area where the Wraiths were gathered.


    Sunhwa, go support him.


    Got it.


    Sunhwa followed Sung-gu. Yeonseo asked, What about me? What should I do?


    Destroy pirs along with Yoohyun. Dont overdo it. I gave a little more advice. Go at it gently, while keeping an eye on your stamina. Other monsters might show up, after all. Youve got the most agility, so if something unexpected happens, stick to me.


    Okidoki, gotcha. Yeonseo smiled brightly. It really is nice to y with you. Its reassuring.


    ...


    It kinda feels like you concretely draw out what I have to do. As expected of our boss!


    After giving me a big thumbs up, Yeonseo used Heavenly Demonic Flying Step to move to the pirs. Here and there, pirs were being destroyed. In the meantime, the Tutorial Ender So Yoohyun took the temporary party leader role under the rmendation of the other yers.


    Yoohyun said some pretty smart stuff. Lets not destroy all of them at once, he said to the listening crowd. We need to see what changes ur whenever we destroy a pir.


    * * *


    * * *


    Jo Sunghyun, who had been silent up until now, finally came up to me and spoke.


    ...What He hesitated a little. What should I do?


    Thats right. I knew he would be like this. Sunghyun couldnt be forced to do something or be pulled along at someone elses pace. You had to make him move of his own will. That was my evaluation of him, and he was acting exactly as I expected.


    Mm. I did have him hooked, but I couldnt be too hasty. For now, how about you join our party? The others just now are party members whove been with me from the start.


    Sounds good.


    Sunghyun entered our party.


    You are the core key of this raid.


    The Central Pir couldnt be cleared without Sunghyuns ability. ording to what I knew, we needed his innate ability Standstill. And if he was willing to help me, we could clear this gate a little more safely and quickly.


    Please hunt Wraiths with Sung-gu, keeping an eye on your stamina. Id like you not to overdo it and just approach it like stretching your muscles. Take all the items that drop.


    For now, it was important that he learned how to cooperate with Sung-gu. That would be the key to the clear. I believed that they would do well without meying out every detail. Both of them were geniuses, and it wasnt something I could influence with my words.


    Can I Once again, Sunghyun hesitated for a long time. Can I call you hyung?


    His voice was trembling a little, and I couldnt figure out why he was so nervous about something like this. I almost snorted at the sight of the future Typhoon acting like this.


    You can do so if you want. I dont think our ages are that different, anyway.


    Hyung, please feel free to speak casually.


    Jo Sunghyun was famous for not opening his heart easily to others, but apparently, the teenage Sunghyun was still pretty amenable. It seemed like he had epted me.


    If monsters other than Wraiths happen to appear, bring everyone back to me. Sung-gu and Sunhwa should understand if you tell them that.


    I understand.


    Sunghyun joined up with Sung-gu and Sunhwa.


    Alright then Guess I should go to Yoohyuns side, too.


    Just then, another pir was broken. Yoohyun bellowed, Halt!


    It was too much to expect perfect order or anything like that. Only after several others repeated themand did all the yers stop moving. By future standards, it was truly nothing short of deplorable.


    []


    With the arrows, began another bout of wind.


    The wind has definitely gotten stronger.


    Hearing shouts of Get down! from a few quick-witted people and Yoohyun, the yers got t onto the ground. As they did so, the Wraithsunaffected by the windattacked the yers.


    Sunhwa should be fine.


    Most of the aggro was being drawn by Sung-gu, Sunghyun, and Sunhwa. They were also not taking much damage from the Wraiths. It was thanks to them that the yers on this side could focus on destroying the pirs without paying much attention to the Wraiths.


    The third pir was destroyed. Yoohyun shouted, Everyone, get t on the ground!


    Most yers were now used to the routine and went straight down. But a few people didnt follow his instructions.


    Its not that bad. It was okay even standing up.


    Why does he keep telling us to get down and all?


    It seems a little excessive to me


    In terms of percentages, 90% of the yers followed Yoohyuns instruction, and the remaining 10% didnt. For the next pirthe fourththe number of yers who stayed standing increased a little, perhaps because they had realized that they wouldnt get hurt even if they stayed standing.


    See? Its fine even if you dont get down.


    Ah, jeez. That was a waste of strength earlier.


    There were even people who tantlyined. That much was enough to make Yoohyun feel bad, but he faithfully carried out my words to keep getting down, since the wind was getting stronger. He kept repeating the same things, saying that by getting down, we could markedly reduce the effect of the wind.


    Somethings off about this wind. I would be grateful if you were to please listen to me!


    He kept saying that, but Yoohyun had no power, nor did he have the ability to force them. Several yers refused to listen to him. Kim Taechun, who had lost the initiative due to Yoohyun, even overtly ridiculed him.


    Whats got you so scared that youre trembling like a little bitch? Come now, lets just destroy all the pirs. Are you men, or are you boys?


    Several people agreed with him. I simply watched. I was no Superman and I had no power to forcefullymand them. More than anything, I was not a saint. They were choosing to be reckless. Id done what I could through Yoohyun.


    The fifth pir, then the sixth, were destroyed. The number of arrows increased from 7 to 10.


    []


    This time, a powerful gust blew in, almost like a tornado. It was a whirlwind.


    Uwaaaaaaaaahh!


    Someone lifted into the air, sent flying high by the wind. I squeezed my eyes shut, already aware of what would happen. The three yers in the air were cut into pieces.


    <i>Drip, st, stter.</i>


    Chunks of human flesh fell to the ground, along with blood rain. If you were lifted into the air, that was what would happen to you. I felt my head bing ice cold. Perhaps it was the effect of the Calm Observers Eye bundled into my Eye of Perception, but I was much calmer than when the Tutorial happened.


    From here on out the real clearing begins.


    With the three deaths, a distortion appeared in the field. Although I knew it would happen, I was also able to feel it instinctively.


    And now, that monster will appear.


    I knew that it wasnt the time for me to be taking the position of an observer.


    Im going.


    Right now, I absolutely had to move.


    ____


    ____

 Chapter 72: Hill of Blowing Wind (2)

    Chapter 72: Hill of Blowing Wind (2)


    <b>Chapter 72: Hill of Blowing Wind (2)</b>


    Hyukjin was the first to move.


    Im going.


    His gaze was pointed towards Sung-gu, or more precisely, a ck haze to the right of Sung-gu.


    Yeonseo saw him move.


    Huh?


    The wind was abating, but it was still dangerous to move quickly.


    <i>If something unexpected happens, stick to me.</i>


    She remembered those words. Just moments ago, three yers had been pulled into the air and killed.


    If Hyukjin is moving like that


    It meant there was definitely an important reason for him to do so.


    I have to go, too.


    Matching the timing, Yeonseo followed him.


    [Using the movement skill Heavenly Demonic Flying Step.]


    With the help of her movement skill, she quickly reached Hyukjin. Because he was moving with physical ability alone, she was faster than him.


    During the three months while Hyukjin was in the Forest of Unknowns, Yeonseo had grown a lot. Her burning desire to catch up to him, no, to be stronger than him, made her strong.


    Hyukjin pointed at the ck haze, and Yeonseo understood what he meant.


    Okidoki, she said, using Heavenly Demonic Flying Step to rapidly move to the haze.


    [Using the skill Single Hit Finisher.]


    Less than two seconds afterwards, Hyukjin also got within range and thrust his sword into the haze.


    [Using the special skill Excellent Strike.]


    Yeonseo heard a notice.


    [Devil Wraith has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [55 Coins acquired.]


    It varied between monsters, but when killing level 30 monsters, you could get approximately 40 Coins.


    55 Coins?


    She didnt even get a proper look at the monster, yet she obtained a whopping 55 Coins. That was even more Coins than when they killed the Great Orc Warrior.


    What did we just kill?


    Yeonseo was sure of it. If she hadnt worked with Hyukjin to kill this monster just now, an incredibly dangerous creature would have emerged.


    Looks like theyre at their weakest when theyre in their haze form, Yeonseo said.


    ...


    And our boss realized that in advance.


    Hyukjin nodded.


    <i>Devil Wraith. With our skills at the time, we couldnt kill it. As you all know, the Devil Wraith is a monster that concealed itself on its own after killing ten people.</i>


    The Devil Wraith was the product of the specter monster Wraith taking actual form into a new monster. Its entire body was ck, and it looked like a seagull the size of an eagle.


    <i>As everyone here knows, the only way to kill it is to strike before it haspletely taken form.</i>


    Once it emerged, the Devil Wraith would continue to move until it killed ten people.


    A monster we cant kill with our current skills.


    That meant ten random people would be sacrificed. We had to kill it before it tookplete form.


    The EXP has been reduced.


    I attacked it directly, abandoning the observer position. Still, I knew it was a much better choice than seeing ten people die.


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain admires the clean strike.]


    [The Lady of the Scales is surprised by your discernment.]


    [The Whispering Devil finds it regretful.]


    [The Nameless Observer continues to observe.]


    Hyukjin directly hunted the Devil Wraith, and as such, he didnt get EXP or Coins. Only Yeonseo got rewards. However, Hyukjin was a little shocked.


    How should I interpret this?


    For a kill to count as him directly killing it, he had to do at least 50% of the damage to the monster.


    So I did over 50% of the damage?


    Did he get a lucky crit? Did he really deal more damage than Yeonseo, even though she was sure to have used Single Hit Finisher? It was hard for him to understand. He was forced to interpret the situation as him having done more damage than the Sword Empress whose level was higher than his.


    In any case, the atmosphere had turned on a dime.


    Because of what just happened theyre finally thinking straight.


    Three people died. The yers seemed to have gotten a bit more serious. Most of them were focused on destroying the rest of the pirs rather than getting distracted by what was happening over here.


    Good, thats a bit better.


    There were definitely yers who were interested in what was happening on this side, but for now, they appeared to be focusing on their task.


    Currently, there are four groups.


    The yers were currently raiding this gate in four groups: yers who were destroying the pirs, yers fighting the Wraiths, and Hyukjin and Yeonseo, who just killed the Devil Wraith. Thest group was nonbat yers who were unable to do any of those things.


    The 7th pir is falling.


    The 7th pir copsed, and at the same time, a change urred in the field.


    [The Central Pir is appearing.]


    All of the yers got a quest notice.


    [Quest: Find the Offering Box.]


    [The Offering Box is located on the top of the Central Pir.]


    The faces of the yers brightened. They got a clue to the clearthe Offering Box, and the top of the Central Pir.


    Kim Taechun yelled out in excitement, I was the one who found the clue!


    His contribution in destroying the pirs was obviously unrivaled. As he swung his massive blunt weapon, an axe with great destructive force, he looked like a warrior born to fight.


    [The Courageous Lion King is satisfied.]


    The situation was very favorable for Taechun. Blunt weapons had a great deal of attack power, but they were slow and it was hard tond a hit. Thats why they could only be used with footwork techniques or skills that increased attack speed. However, such assist skills werent necessary against pirs that didnt move.


    Oryaaa!


    The work on the 8th pir began. The situation cast yers of the same type as Taechun in a good light.


    Cmon, lets do this!


    The yers went at the pirs with greater intensity. There were a total of eighteen pirs here. Since a clue appeared after destroying seven pirs, they wanted to keep going in the same manner.


    Standing a little distance away from the pirs, Hyukjin spoke, his gaze pointed towards Sung-gu, Sunghyun, and Sunhwa.


    Im seeing a change in the mana around the Wraiths.


    Shit, are they gonna be even scarier?


    I dont know for sure. But the flow of mana surrounding the Wraiths has changed. Its probably one of two things. Either the Wraiths themselves will change to a different form, or different monsters will appear.


    Got it. Ill be mentally prepared.


    <i>When the 7th pir was broken, the Central Pir appeared. We thought of that as a clue to the clear. It gave us hope. But then, we were forced to fight a terrible battle of life or death. Because the Wraiths disappeared and were reced by Ghosts.</i>


    Wraiths were specter monsters that came in the form of seagulls. Ghosts were human-shaped monsters made of ck smoke.


    In regards to the Ghosts, Jo Sunghyun said this:


    <i>They were skilled in both close and ranged attacks and had a paralyzation ability, making them extremely tricky to face. Their appearance marked the beginning of hell.</i>


    They could fire ck, concentrated marbles of mana from their fingertips, and not only did this cause damage, but it also had a special paralyzation effect that rendered you unable to move.


    <i>The wind in thetter half was so strong you couldnt endure it without getting down. The paralyzed yers were unable to get down, so</i>


    The paralyzation itself wasnt all that scary. What was scary was that you wouldnt be able to get down if you were affected. If you couldnt get t on the ground, the wind would send you flying into the air, and if that happened, you would meet a gruesome end, just like the three yers moments ago. The wind would tear you to pieces in midair.


    Theyll start showing up here and there.


    * * *


    Just then, one of the yers shouted, Watch out! A monster that can paralyze has shown up! If you get hit by that, its over for you!


    Hyukjin looked in the direction of the pirs. The speaker was mixed into the crowd, so he couldnt figure out who it was. However, he now knew that someone among the yers had the ability to immediately determine monster abilities.


    Its probably Han Seokmin.


    If his guess was right, that yer was Han Seokmin, one of the important figures of Taeguk Shield, the big guild propelled by Sungshin. So Han Seokmin was here, too.


    Doesnt look like he can see weak points yet.


    He was a yer with the special ability to determine the traits and weak points of monsters, but it didnt look like he could see the weak points yet.


    Human-shaped monsters made of ck smoke began to appear. They werent affected by the wind here. Their red eyes glowed brightly.


    Theyll attack soon.


    Hyukjin turned back to his teammates. You must absolutely avoid getting hit by the paralyzing poison.


    Everyone had to be on their guard. The Ghosts extended their hands. Condensed mana the size of marbles would nowe shooting from those fingertips. The spheres werent all that fast. With a little determination, you could dodge them.


    However


    []


    You had to check the wind arrows. The trajectory of the marbles changed ording to the intensity and direction of the wind. The other people aside, Hyukjin had to quickly share what he knew and had figured out to his party members first.


    Be sure to check the intensity and direction of the wind. Theyll influence the ranged attack.


    []


    The wind intensity and direction changed constantly. The fields overall difficulty was quickly rising.


    [Eye of Perception detects murderous intent.]


    That probably means Ive drawn the aggro.


    Eye of Perception didnt betray Hyukjin.


    That one.


    One of the Ghosts was aiming at Hyukjin. It was the fastest Ghost, apparently the strongest of the six that had appeared in various ces around the field. Hyukjin focused on his senses.


    I can dodge.


    He saw it. ck, marble-sized spheres came flying towards him. They appeared to be flying in a straight line, and there were a staggering ten of them, aiming straight at him and him alone.


    He checked the wind once more.


    []


    He had to dodge with that direction in mind.


    I cant make too big of a movement.


    His mind honed to peak concentration. He saw nothing else in his surroundingsjust him, the Ghost, and those ck spheres.


    If I make toorge a movement, the others will target me.


    He had to avoid the Ghosts attack with the smallest movement possible, the most efficient way.


    [Observers Eye seeks the flow of nature.]


    I can see the trajectory.


    The path Hyukjin drew out in his head and the trajectory Observers Eye showed him were exactly the same.


    Half a step to the right.


    He didnt move much, just half a step. He had to show his party members. He wanted to show them with his body how they should move.


    The ck spheres shot towards him like an arrow, as if to pierce his body. At that moment, Sunhwa flinched.


    Op-Oppa! she nearly shouted. In her eyes, Hyukjin was in great danger. It looked as if he would be struck right this instant by those spheres. He only took half a step to the side, and for the slightest moment, it seemed as if time stopped.


    <i>Swoosh!</i>


    The Ghosts attack didnt hit him, the ck spheres barely whizzing past his body.


    The smallest movement, the greatest efficiency. The way he dodged was seen by all of his party members. They were all geniuses.


    Sung-gu nodded, thinking, So thats how you do it.


    Yeonseo, Yoohyun, Sunhwa, and Sunghyun read Hyukjins intent as well. He had just taught them with his body. He showed them that this is what they should do, that there was no better method than this. It was literally a living lecture.


    In the meantime, screams came from the area where the pirs were.


    I-I-I-I cant move!


    W-Wait! Stop! Dont destroy the pir!


    People screamed, but it was toote. The 8th pir was destroyed. It wasnt done on purpose. It was simply terrible timing.


    []


    The four paralyzed yers nched in horror.


    N-N-No!


    Yoohyun instantly tackled one of them, bringing the paralyzed man forcefully to the ground. One of them was fortunate, fortunate that Yoohyun happened to be standing next to him.


    A-AAAAAAH!


    The other three faced the same terrible fate as the earlier yers. They were lifted into the air and brutally killed. Body parts fell to the ground, a fountain of blood bursting in the air, scattered everywhere by the strong wind.


    The yers were instantly rendered speechless.


    ...


    Because of a timing mistake, another three people died.


    Kim Taechun growled, Which son of a bitch destroyed the pir with that timing? It was almost as if hed be the true leader here. He roared in rage, acting like he was the arbitrator of this ce. Who the hell was it?!


    For him, this was a good opportunity to show his strength.


    Using Heavenly Demonic Flying Step, Yeonseo quickly swept past him. This isnt the time for it, in my opinion. Not gonna kill the Ghosts?


    After using its ranged attack, a little of the ck smoke that made up the Ghost dissipated. It obviously looked weakened. Yeonseo focused on the red eyes. She didnt know if the eyes were a weak point, but they looked like it.


    The red eyes.


    She decided to thrust her sword at that point. Her intuition told her that she couldnt kill it in one hit. The wind would continue to blow, and she couldnt kill the Ghost with one hit. She had to whittle it down slowly. Yoohyun also grasped what he had to do and moved towards another Ghost.


    Yeonseo, Yoohyun, and Sung-gu. The three of them started hunting the Ghosts, and other yers began to hunt the Ghosts around them as well. If they didnt kill the Ghosts, they would be the ones to die.


    Most of the yers saw this:


    Ghost LVL ?


    However, they had no other choice, because it was kill or be killed. While they were fighting, Hyukjin stood next to Sunhwa and activated Observers Eye.


    The 8th pir was destroyed.


    That meant from here on out, the key item could appear.


    I have to find it.


    His party members were doing the best they could in their individual roles. Regardless of how other people saw it, the true leader was Hyukjin. And as the leader, as the person responsible for these people, he already knew exactly what he had to do.


    Find it!


    The description of Observers Eye was eyes that can read the flow of nature. From the locations where the Ghosts appeared to the ces where the Wraiths first showed up, he pieced together all of the information and examined the field anew with Observers Eye.


    I <i>must</i> find it.


    ____


    ____

 Chapter 73: Hill of Blowing Wind (3)

    Chapter 73: Hill of Blowing Wind (3)


    <b>Chapter 73: Hill of Blowing Wind (3)</b>


    <i>The pirs of the Ruined Temple were a clue for the clear.</i>


    The pirs could be destroyed. Every time these special pirs were destroyed, the field would change a little. Those changes werent limited to gusts of wind or monsters being spawned.


    Inside the pirs, there should be two randomly generated clear-necessary items


    So how did they end up in Darongis Inventory? The cheeky squirrel was staring at me, [!!!] and [] marks alternating over his head.


    You


    Darongi huffed from his nose, as if to shout, State a trade condition thatll satisfy me, Master!


    One Fruit Bundle, plus ten minutes of belly tickling.


    Darongi wavered for a moment.


    [!!!]


    He really liked having his belly tickled. But hmph, thats not enough for me! Im the one who impressed the Merchant of Venice, he seemed to say with his eyes. Iid down an even better trade condition.


    Ill also pet your head.


    [!!!]


    Darongi continued to huff, wavering on the fence.


    Fifteen minutes.


    In the end, Darongi opened his heart to me, apparently epting my trade conditions.


    [Darongi epts the trade.]


    [You can now ess his Inventory.]


    I opened Darongis Inventory. Inside were two items.


    [Wind Shoes 1/2]


    Shoes imbued with the blessing of wind. Dramatically increases ones affinity with the wind element, bestowing a synergistic effect when using wind attribute foot techniques or movement skills. However, a full pair of two shoes must be worn for that function to apply.


    Attribute: Wind


    Grade: Rare


    Level Restriction: 25


    Equip Restriction: Wind-attribute ss


    The other item was of course Wind Shoes 2/2, meaning Darongi had a full pair. He had somehow managed to snag both shoes.


    Just where the heck did you get these?


    As if he read my mind, Darongi opened his mouth widethough it was still tinyand showed off his front teeth.


    Did you gnaw a hole into the pirs to get them?


    Darongi puffed out his chest and beat his cotton-ball fist into his chest with pride.


    []


    A strange set of marks appeared over his head, which I interpreted to roughly mean, Im this awesome, see? This fellow sure was full of amusing surprises.


    The future has changed once again.


    Everywhere I went, history changed. In the past, the yers here were unable to show a united front. The reason was simple; it was because this item was divided into two parts.


    Two different yers got one part each of this item.


    One was picked up by Jo Sunghyun, and the other was picked up by some other yer. As the description made clear, this item would only work if it was worn as a united pair.


    After many twists and turns, Sunghyun finally managed to get both parts, but the process took quite a long time.


    It was a <i>rare</i> grade item. If Id been one of the people to get a part of this item in the past, even I might have found it difficult to hand it over to Sunghyun.


    Sunghyun said this:


    <i>In the meantime, many more yers died. Things might have been different if wed had an outstanding leader at the time, but it was still too early back then.</i>


    Did that mean I was an outstanding leader, then?


    Im not too sure about that.


    At the very least, I knew what I had to do right now. What I did now would determine the number of survivors from this field and the rewards we would reap at the end.


    [The Nameless Observer continues to observe.]


    [The Lady of the Scales wonders how you will act.]


    [The Merchant of Venice is curious about the details of the exchange.]


    [The Whispering Devil would like to see a slightly more exciting scene.]


    As always, the Guardians were watching us. They also seemed curious as to what I would do.


    Okay.


    Currently, the wind was blowing hard. Iid t on the ground.


    Senia. You didnt forget your bet with me, right?


    ...I have not.


    After saying that, Senias mouth moved silently. I couldnt hear what she was saying, so she was probably giving the Guardians some background info, like what kind of bet we made and how I won, which entitled me to a one-time opening of the intermediate-grade Item Shop.


    Open it for me now.


    I will open the Item Shop for you. However, I can only do it one time.


    I know.


    Senia was implicitly asking me if I was really going to open the store in such an unsafe ce. It would be best to make the most out of the opportunity and peruse the shop in a peaceful ce. In all actuality, that was indeed the better call. However, this was no ordinary situation.


    [The Intermediate-grade Item Shop is being opened.]


    [It has not been opened through legitimate means.]


    [As a penalty, the price of all goods within the Intermediate-grade Item Shop will be multiplied by 10.]


    It felt like someone whacked me in the head with a hammer.


    10x?


    I expected some sort of penalty to apply, since this wasnt just jumping from the Tutorial to the Beginner Item Shop, but from the Beginner to the Intermediate Shop. I did think there would be a side effect


    But 10x?


    This was a total, fucking rip-off.


    Dammit.


    However, I had no other choice but to think of this as an investment for the future.


    Enhancement category.


    [Item Shop - Intermediate-grade - Enhancement]<ol><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Low Enhancement Crystal 2,000 Coins  20,000 Coins</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Medium Enhancement Crystal 3,000 Coins  30,000 Coins</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Element Affinity Powder 1,000 Coins  10,000 Coins</li></ol>


    For a moment, I was speechless.


    One Low Enhancement Crystal costs 20k. An Element Affinity Powder costs 10k.


    Enhancing the Wind Shoes I effortlessly snagged thanks to Darongi required two Enhancement Crystals and one Element Affinity Powder.


    50k Coins?


    I hesitated for a moment. Currently, I only had 47,000 Coins.


    If I hadnt encountered the promising thief guy this strategy would have been far out of my reach.


    I had to acknowledge this as my mistake. As expected, the System wasnt as easy to navigate as I hoped. This time, I was able to scrape by thanks to fate and luck. It was merely a so-called curious coincidence.


    Theres no guarantee that Ill continue to have this kind of luck.


    That meant I had to n while thinking of the slightly worse scenarios, as well as the worst-case scenarios. My mistake turned into a learning experience.


    But Im still 3,000 Coins short.


    What method would allow me to get 3,000k Coins right now? I <i>could </i>call everyone and get Coins from them, but that didnt seem all that easy. They were all focused on faithfully carrying out their roles. They were destroying pirs, hunting Ghosts, and staying on their toes for any Devil Wraiths that might appear. The others didnt have any time to spare, either.


    I need at least 50,000 Coins.


    Just then, my Eye of Perception sensed something.


    * * *


    The promising thief, Gu Sungmin, was enraged when he found out that all of his Coins had vanished. He realized that there was a thief out there with more outstanding skills than his own.


    I cant go back like this!


    He felt too wronged to go back empty-handed. It was fine for him to steal, but getting stolen from was unforgivable.


    Just who the hell was it?!


    He had no idea, but it was fine. Wanting to make up for his losses, he went up to the 12th floor. There had to be a lot of yers there, after all. He was determined to undertake the slight risk and empty all their pockets.


    But it really wasnt his day, and he suddenly ended up in a sh gate called the Hill of Blowing Wind.


    Fine, this is better anyway!


    Using the chaos to his advantage, it was a very good opportunity for him to steal coins while pretending to break pirs.


    [Coins acquired.]


    [+1,600 Coins]


    Darn, a paltry 1,600 Coins? These yers were supposed to be famous and all, but they were all broke as hell.


    [Coins acquired.]


    [+900 Coins.]


    Regardless, he was raking the Coins in. While the yers had their full attention on raiding the gate, he worked hard to steal Coins.


    [Held Coins: 19,200 Coins]


    Sungmin got t on the ground. As long as he did as So Yoohyun said, there wasnt any risk of death, for the time being. A few super speedy yers were also fighting those terrifying monsters called Ghosts for them. All he had to do was to keep pretending he was breaking pirs while leeching Coins.


    What if they cant buy potions because of me?


    Potions were crucial in raids. It was no exaggeration to call a potion a second life.


    Ah fuck, whatever. Thats none of my concern, is it?


    His precious, precious money was more important right now. Other guys hitting the bucket was actually no concern of his, was it? That was just their luck.


    [Coins acquired.]


    [+4,300 Coins]


    That should bring his total count to 23,500 Coins. Feeling proud, he went to check his Coins.


    [Held Coins: 0 Coin]


    Gu Sungmin was floored. He idently ended up shouting in rage.


    Dammitttt, what the fuck?!


    That number should be 23,500, so WHY?! How?! Why was it 0? Fuming, he looked around.


    [Using the innate ability Wallet Perception.]


    One of these fuckers definitely stole his money. He would have his revenge! Or, thats what he thought, but not a single person had a lot of Coins. It was like something out of the twilight zone.


    While Gu Sungmin wasnt watching, a piece of history was unfolding in one part of the field.


    * * *


    [!!!]


    I clicked on Darongis status, and an exnation window popped up.


    [This is a goodwill present given to Master.]


    [Intoxicated by his own greatness, Darongi is in a very good mood.]


    The present Darongi gave me because he was in a good mood was


    [23,500 Coins acquired.]


    [Held Coins: 71,500 Coins]


    Even I was a little bbergasted. I got a whopping 71,500 Coins without lifting a finger. The System imposed a huge penalty on the Intermediate-grade Item Shop for opening it through less than legitimate means, but I was able to somehow jump straight over the hurdle. This genius squirrel did it again.


    [Low Enhancement Crystal purchased.]


    [-20,000 Coins]


    [Low Enhancement Crystal purchased.]


    [-20,000 Coins]


    [Element Affinity Powder purchased.]


    [-10,000 Coins]


    My insides were twisting and churning, but this was an investment, an investment. I didnt spend a long time agonizing about it. I had to move things along quickly.


    Senia. Starting now, Im going to do item enhancement.


    Enhancement was content that Guardians liked to watch. There were definitely Guardians who went wild for this kind of stuff.


    [The Barrier of Blue Light has established a temporary Safe Zone around you.]


    I had heard a notice from this Guardian once in the past, saying that the Barrier of Blue Light was paying attention to me. Afterwards, I didnt get any more notices, so I forgot about them.


    The Barrier of Blue Light was still watching Senias channel, huh.


    In any case, I was thankful. Now, I could fully focus on the enhancement.


    [Enhancing Wind Shoes.]


    [2 Enhancement Crystals and 1 pouch of Element Affinity Powder are required for the enhancement.]


    [The sess rate will be determined by the yers talent andpetence.]


    Every yer said that enhancement was one field where talent was king. In other things, you could somehow fudge the rates to at least average with effort, but not in enhancement. It was all down to RNG and talent, as well as money.


    [Calcting the +1 enhancement sess rate.]


    The notices continued.


    Wha?


    ____


    ____

 Chapter 74: Hill of Blowing Wind (4)

    Chapter 74: Hill of Blowing Wind (4)


    [Calcting the +1 enhancement sess rate.]


    There were slight differences based on yer talent, but normally, the first enhancement had a sess rate of around 90%. With Element Affinity Powder mixed in, it was close to 100%.


    Only when a yer had atrocious luck and basically 0 talent was there a very tiny chance for the first enhancement to fail.[+1 enhancement sess rate: 120%]


    For a moment, I doubted my ears.


    120%?


    100 was already 100, so what the heck was 120?


    Come to think of it


    In the past, the German craftsman called the Master of Enhancement, Lukas, once said that enhancement was not just a fight of the numbers 1 to 100. He said that there was a far higher and more beautiful world beyond that.


    Is this what he meant?


    120%. What did that mean?


    [Element Affinity Powder increases sess rate by 10%.]


    [+1 enhancement sess rate: 130%]


    [The attribute of the current field has a high affinity to the object being enhanced.]


    [Field affinity increases sess rate by 10%.]


    [+1 enhancement sess rate: 140%]


    I thought that 100, 130, and 140 were all the same, anyway, but it didnt seem to be the case. If that was true, there shouldnt be any reason for the System to go out of its way to state that the sess rate was 140%. There had to be something different about it for sure.


    What could it be?


    The notices continued.[Enhancing Wind Shoes.]


    [Congrattions!]


    [The enhancement was sessful!]


    [Wind Shoes have been enhanced to Wind Shoes +1.]


    For a brief moment, I saw it.


    This was a blue enhancement?


    I mentally reeled.


    Ah. This is what it is!


    It was known that the people who were called Masters in the past did enhancements using a specific method. They had distribution channels and connections all over the world and shared tips and tricks only among their exclusive ranks. Their special ability to make outstanding items was so coveted it was no exaggeration to say that they were raking in all of the worlds money.


    The color of the item name is blue.


    With the enhancement, the previously white item name turned blue.


    Above blue is purple. Above purple is brown. Above brown


    Was the legendary ck grade, which could only be found a few times in the entire world.


    It was definitely said that you need an extremely special method


    I hadnt done all that much just now. I did buy the materials at a ridiculously high price because of the penalty, but that couldnt be helped. I didnt use any of those special enhancement methods the Masters were said to have used, nor did I have a specific enhancement skill.


    But I was still able to make a blue item?


    What in the world?


    I didnt do anything all that special.


    Could it be that I had an incredible talent for enhancement? I was able to pull off a blue enhancement without any skills or innate abilities. It varied between items, but I think I remembered people saying that a +1 blue item was typically about the same level as a +2 white item.


    Lets think about itter.


    For now, it was more important to clear this gate and get out.


    [Wind Shoes +1]


    Shoes imbued with the blessing of wind. Dramatically increases ones affinity with the wind element, bestowing a synergistic effect when using wind attribute foot techniques or movement skills. However, a full pair of two shoes must be worn for that function to apply.


    Attribute: Wind


    Agility +2


    Grade: Rare


    Level Restriction: 25


    Special Skill: Can use Imaginary Running Start.


    Equip Restriction: Wind-attribute ss


    One enhancement, and the item gained an agility stat boost along with a special skill. Of course, its affinity to wind must have also be higher.


    [Imaginary Running Start]


    A running start refers to the act of running a set distance in order to increase ones jumping force. The special skill imbued in the Wind Shoes, Imaginary Running Start, allows the wearer to achieve the maximum jumping force without running a set distance. Synergizes extremely well with Standstill.


    Think I get it.


    In order to jump high or far, you needed a running start. Obviously, you could jump further if you jumped from a run rather than a stationary position. This Imaginary Running Start was essentially a special skill that could remove the need for such a running startit drew out the wearers maximum jumping force without any preparatory movements.


    Depending on how its used its value is infinite.


    This was clearly a stroke of luck. Incredible fortune. Just as I was thinking that, I felt one of the Ghosts aiming for Jo Sunghyun. ck spheres had already been fired.


    Sunghyun cant dodge.


    There was no one else who would take the hit for him. Eye of Perception was telling me that the only person who could act was me.


    Will he be okay if he gets hit by that?


    I wasnt sure. He might be fine, or he might not. If he was affected by the paralyzation poison, I could forcefully push him to the ground.


    But.


    I decided to make a slightly more drastic investment this time.


    Ill take the hit for him.


    I made the decision in a split second. As soon as I saw the ck spheres, as soon as the Ghost attacked Sunghyun, I moved.


    Guess I should take some insurance.


    Yeonseo! I shouted loudly.


    I felt her turn to look at me. That was more than enoughshe was a yer with enough insight to figure out my intent. She woulde running over with Heavenly Demonic Flying Step.


    I pushed Sunghyun. Watch out!


    Five of the ck spheresunched by the Ghost struck my body.


    Gugh!


    One of them hit my eye, another one my forehead. A third ball struck my stomach.


    They were all dangerous ces. No matter how weak the attack, getting attacked in such vital points was bound to cause great damage.


    [The durability of Great Orc Warriors Iron Armor has sharply decreased.]


    [The durability of Great Orc Warriors Leather Shoes has sharply decreased.]


    [The durability of Great Orc Warriors Leather Pants has sharply decreased.]


    Yeonseo hade in a sh. Hyukjin, are you alright?


    Yeah. Somehow.


    Thankfully, youre not paralyzed?


    Yeah.


    I didnt get it either. I did believe in the Great Orc Warrior set. Even if you were hit in unguarded weak points, this worlds items were capable of greatly decreasing the damage taken. And if it was really dicey, the Partial Set Effect would kick in.


    But who would have thought I wouldnt even be affected by the paralysis?


    It seemed that Lady Luck was gracing me in many ways today. If that wasnt it, then my poison resistance was higher than I thought. In the meantime, Kim Taechun destroyed the tenth pir.[]


    There would be another gust of wind.


    Get down, I said.


    Yup.


    Sunghyun also got down. While on the ground, he slowly crawled my way.


    Thank you.


    Getting thanked was fine and all, but I found it a little peculiar that Sunghyuns eyes were slightly misted with tears.


    Huh?


    I could feel his gaze. It wasnt just a gaze of gratitude. His summary also changed a little.Summary: Young Incarnation of Hammurabi Who Met an Adult


    Jo Sunghyun always said that an adult had to act like an adult to be an adult.


    He seems


    Even without Eye of Perception, I could kinda figure it out from his expression alone.


    Super moved right now?


    * * *


    Jo Sunghyun felt itit wouldnt be good if he got hit by those balls. He knew that, but his body was unable to react. His body wasnt capable of keeping up with his thoughts yet, and he didnt have a ss specialized in physical ability to begin with.


    Oh-Oh no.


    He recognized that he was in danger, but there was nothing he could do. A gruesome future started sketching itself out in his head. But then, the hyung he met earlier, the hyung who called himself Kim Hyukjin, helped him. Perhaps from his haste to jump in, he got hit by the spheres in his vital points.


    ...


    At that moment, Sunghyun was moved. He never thought that someone would throw themselves into danger for his sake. After receiving Sunghyuns thanks, Hyukjin said, Its way better for me to get hit than you.


    ...You were a tank?


    Well, no. Not really.


    Hyukjin was about to say Im overgeared, but he swallowed the words.


    Right now, Jo Sunghyun was extremely touched. Hyukjin wasnt even a tank. He wasnt a tank, yet he still threw himself into harms way.


    This person put his life on the line, thought Sunghyun.


    That was a slight misunderstanding, but in any case, Sunghyun currently believed he owed Hyukjin for saving his life and that he had met a real adult.


    ...I will repay this debt until I die.


    No need to die, Hyukjin said with a smile. See that Central Pir over there?


    Yes. We have to get the Offering Box from there.


    Its a fact that every time the small pirs are destroyed, the Central Pir gets lower.


    That was why Kim Taechun and the other yers were breaking the pirs right now.


    However, with every pir that is broken, the difficulty will also rise.


    As a result, if possible, it would be best to clear the gate now.


    You should see a weak current of wind in a spiral shape around the Central Pir. Take a close look.


    ...


    Sunghyun peered at the Central Pir, heightening his mana perception as much as possible.


    There really is one?


    He didnt realize all this time, but after taking a closer look, there really was a current.


    Now, take this.


    ...Huh?


    He got an item, a <i>rare</i>-grade item. It was a precious item hed never heard of, one that even had an agility stat boost.


    Y-Youre giving this to me?


    No, Im letting you borrow it.


    Once again, Sunghyun was moved.


    How can he trust me?


    How could this hyung trust him enough to lend him an item like this?


    And why? Just what does he see in me?


    He hadnt done anything to help Hyukjin, but Hyukjin was lending him such a precious item, as if saving his life wasnt enough.


    You dont need to be that moved. This is a ce of life and death. Im just trying to use the method that can achieve a slightly more efficient clear.


    Sunghyun nodded. He was sure of it. Kim Hyukjin was a real adult. As an 18-year-old youth, his sensitivity for such things was massively heightened.


    What do I have to do?


    * * *


    Like a true observer, I gave Sunghyun the information I had obtained through observation and told the boy what he needed to do in rather concrete detail.


    You can do it, right?


    I will try.


    It might be dangerous.


    I know.


    You have to ride the current well. The moment you slip out of that current, youll get swept into the gusts.


    It might be dangerous. No, it was <i>definitely</i> dangerous.


    But you pulled it off in the past.


    Even with just the base, unenhanced Wind Shoes, Jo Sunghyun cleared this gate. At least half of the yers died, but he cleared it all the same. He would be able to do it this time, too.


    I stared at the Central Pir. Captured by Observers Eye was a stream of wind-attribute mana flowing faintly in a spiral around the Central Pir.


    Hell ride that current up.


    That current would protect Sunghyun from the strong winds blowing in this field. As long as he could ride that current without falling out, hed be able to get all the way to the top without being influenced by the other wind.


    Jo Sunghyun can do it.


    Sunghyun began to run. In my eyes, the kid was indeed full of talent.


    Hes got exactly the right route.


    Sunghyun had a precise eye for the flow. He started climbing up the current, looking as if he were stepping on empty air, almost as if there were an invisible spiral staircase.


    Hes doing great.


    The kid was doing much better than I expected. Was it thanks to the Wind Shoes enhanced into a +1 blue item? In any case, Sunghyun was climbing up the Central Pir in his own way.


    Alright. Now


    It was time for me to do what I had to do, because starting now, the situation would change yet again. I approached Yoohyun, taking care not to walk too fast, going at a speed that wouldnt catch the eye.


    Yoohyun. Listen to me while you attack. Be discreet.


    While punching the 10th pir, Yoohyun answered in a small voice, Yes, hyungnim.


    See Sunghyun starting to go up the Central Pir over there?


    Yoohyun nodded after looking from the corners of his eyes. He was a little surprised, but he didnt show it too much.


    Theres going to be a change.


    It wasnt a System induced change. Some new quest wasnt going to be issued. This was just my prediction based on the current situation.


    I gave him only one order.


    If anyone acts up, beat them up. Til theyre on deaths door.


    On deaths door?


    Yeah. Dont ask, dont argue, just smash.


    Sure enough, Kim Taechun suddenly shouted in rage.


    HEY, YOU SON OF A BITCH!


    His gaze was pointed towards the kid climbing the Central Pir.


    What kinda shit are you trying to pull on your own?! Whyre you taking action without any orders, you little shit!!!


    Having received an order from me, Yoohyun moved towards the man loudly disying his courage.

 Chapter 75: The Offering Box

    Chapter 75: The Offering Box


    <b>Chapter 75: The Offering Box</b>


    What kinda shit are you trying to pull on your own?! Whyre you taking action without any orders, you little shit!!!


    He was being an embarrassment.


    That was exactly how I saw itwhat Kim Taechun was doing right now wasnt leading. He was simply embarrassing himself. The situation was favorable for Taechun, so he was showing off his power by whacking the stationary pirs with his slow but destructive weapon, makingrge, shy movements that looked impressive but wouldnt be at all effective in a real battle.


    Actually, Yoohyuns dealt more damage.


    It was just that Yoohyun was using his fists and had slightly more efficient and simple movements that werent obvious to the eye.


    Taechun was merely a grandstander reveling in the attention right now. What kind of insight did he have to give the orders around here?


    Shut up, friend.


    Having gotten in range, Yoohyun swung his fists without any notice.


    Whoa. Honestly, I was surprised. They did say there were times when Yoohyun was a real hardass, but its my first time seeing it.


    People said that he was normally an extremely mild-tempered and kind guy, but in certain special situations, hed show unmatched decisiveness and swiftness of action. I guessed now was one of those moments.


    <i>Pow! Pow! Pow!</i>


    Before Yoohyuns merciless fists, Taechun wasnt able to show a single ounce of his courage.


    Y-Y-You son of a bitch!


    Taechun swung his axe wide.


    <i>Whoompf!</i>


    His axe did have a great deal of destructive force, but it was simply too slow.


    Whatre you doing?


    Simply by taking one very, very casual step backwards, Yoohyun rendered Taechuns axe attack ineffective.


    I can see it again.


    I saw strength gathering on Yoohyuns heels. What I saw with Observers Eye was rather different from seeing with my physical eyes.


    Hell definitely step in now.


    I could see how he would go in, how he would attack.


    Aiming for the abdomen.


    Yoohyun extended his right fist, exactly as Id seen with my Observers Eye. Then, he attacked the ce Id eyed, the spot right underneath the sr plexus.


    Afterwards, hell immediately grab the back of the neck


    I read Yoohyuns movements.


    And strike with his knee.


    Yoohyun was going to use one of his skills, Beginner Knee Kick. I could see the flow of mana, like Observers Eye was showing me how the mana moved when Beginner Knee Kick was used.


    <i>Crack!</i>


    As his knee connected, the loud crack of breaking bone rang out. After taking a Beginner Knee Kick to the jaw, Taechun cked out on the spot. No matter how great he thought he was, the extremely spirited Kim Taechun was helpless in front of So Yoohyun.


    The yers breaking the pirs halted for a moment.


    Wh-What the?


    Whats going on all of a sudden?


    But no one was able to stop Yoohyun. They simply watched the one-sided beating from afar.


    Wh-Whys he getting hit?


    Hes getting beaten up pretty badly?


    C-Could it be a quest?


    Unless it was a quest, why would Kim Taechun get beaten so mercilessly? The guy was even knocked unconscious, as if a simple beating wasnt enough. Yoohyun scratched his head, returning to his usual kind, gentle herbivore look.


    Didnt think hed pass out, but oh well. With a good-natured smile, Yoohyun returned to the pirs. Well then, lets leave that guy be and do what we have to do, fellows.


    Even I was a little dumbfounded. Yoohyun was the real two-faced person here, not Yeonseo. The faces of the yers hardened over. Not a single one of them dared to protest.


    From this, I learned one thing.


    Rational persuasion based on logic and reasoning


    What would have happened if Yoohyun had tried to do that, instead?


    It would have wasted a ton of time, and someone wouldve definitely tried to interfere with Sunghyun in that time.


    Kim Taechuns influence had been extremely strong. If he tried to pull down Sunghyun for whatever reason, a few yers would have been influenced by him. What Yoohyun did was very efficient.


    Beating first and askingter


    It wasnt exactly what I had envisioned, but I found my lips quirking into a smile.


    Is sometimes a pretty good choice, huh?


    Rational persuasion was, of course, the best, but there were certainly situations where it wasnt possible. In such cases, subduing the opposition with violence and strength wasnt too bad an option. I learned something new again. In front of Yoohyuns overwhelming force, all the yers were as meek and calm asmbs.


    Gu Sungmins as busy as ever.


    The man was busily stealing Coins. I was surprised he was still going at it in a situation like this.


    Well, hes just ying in his own way.


    Just like howbat yers focused on killing monsters inbat, Gu Sungmin was also simply ying in his own way. That was how I decided to look at it.


    Then I need to y my way, too.


    Thanks to Gu Sungmins contribution, thepletion of my scenario became much more likely, since I would need a lot of Coins today. I nced at Darongi.


    [!]


    He didnt move. It wasnt hard for me to figure out why.


    Ah, does he not have that many Coins?


    From Darongisck of enthusiasm, Gu Sungmin apparently didnt have that many Coins in his Inventory. The cunning squirrel was probably nning on stealing themter, once theyd been gathered into a tidy pile. Looking at Darongis expression, I said, What? Is he too amateur hour for you?


    Darongi nodded. In the eyes of a theft genius, a promising thiefs movements were far too pathetic.


    But youll still go for meter, right?


    I needed CoinsI would need a lot of Coins in the next part. The enhancement took too many Coins, but thankfully, I had Darongi.


    The 11th pir was destroyed.


    []


    A powerful gust of wind rushed in again. Laying t on the ground, I craned my head up, wondering if Sunghyun was doing well.


    He is.


    He was moving up the weak mana current. When I focused my gaze on him, I was able to see his movements with far greater rity.


    Now. Right now.


    The timing I saw was the same as the timing Sunghyun saw. He jumped high into the air, using the special ability of the Wind Shoes, Imaginary Running Start. Down here, an incredibly strong wind was blowing, but the mana of the Central Pir was protecting Sunghyun from its influence.


    He was so high that clouds were obscuring him and I could no longer see his path.


    Hell get to the top soon.


    The wind abated a little. There were no victims from the 11th pirs destruction. Everyone got t on the ground to avoid the wind, and it looked like most of the yers had gotten used to the Ghosts and Wraiths. The yers now were a lot different from the yers that first came in. Even if someone was hit by a Ghosts projectile, the others would push them to the ground while someone would go out to fight the Ghost.


    * * *


    Things are progressing pretty well.


    My initial disappointment faded a little. Time passed, and I eventually saw Sunghyun climbing back down from high above. He had something on his back, like he was shouldering a backpack.


    The Offering Box.


    The crux of the clear, the end-all and be-all of the key items, the Offering Box, wasing down.


    Were now on the 12th pir.


    It would soon break. This was the perfect time to clear. If we broke too many pirs, the fields difficulty would get too high, and if we broke too few, it would be too difficult to get up the Central Pir.


    Sung-gu.


    Yeah, what?


    What does your long-ranged attack look like?


    About 50 meters, at most? Its pretty urate, too. But it doesck a bit of power.


    That was enough.


    Theres a high chance that monsters will spawn near the Central Pir.


    Monsters?


    Sung-gu scowled. His expression said something like, The Wraiths and Ghosts are already enough to handle, but there are gonna be more?


    What kind of monsters?


    Not sure. If this is a gate artificially made for someones amusement


    There was a high chance it was. However, I didnt outright say that it was made by the Guardians.


    If it were me, I would throw in some flying monsters about now.


    Sung-gus mouth opened in a big O. He pointed upwards.


    Just what are you? Youre a fuckin boss.


    There were two flying monsters in the sky. They had the bodies of a bird, but their faces were rather human-like. They were birds with the approximate resemnce of a human face, one that looked like it was clumsily sculpted out of mud.


    Inmyeonjo.


    Of these mythological creatures, these two were low-grade Inmyeonjo. The higher in rank an Inmyeonjo became, the more human-like its face became.


    If I had designed this gate, theres a very high chance I would have interfered with Sunghyun.


    Then I just have to cover him, right?


    Right.


    Dayum. Your insights hot shit, thats for sure.


    Standing some distance away, Yoohyun had also spotted the Inmyeonjo. I saw him stealing a nce at me. It seemed that he guessed something was happening from me talking to Sung-gu. In verymendable fashion, he took initiative to yell, Those of you who can support the yering down over there with the Offering Box, cover him!


    However, I knew it was pointless. There wouldnt be many yers who would do as Yoohyun said.


    Theyll be too afraid of pulling the aggro.


    Inmyeonjo LVL 29


    It was absolutely not a low-level monster. The top Rankers like Yoohyun were currently level 32. For the majority of the yers here, the level of the Inmyeonjo would appear as a red ? It was only natural that they would be scared.


    Sung-gu rushed towards the Central Pir. Of course, I did so as well.


    To prepare for any unexpected circumstances.


    It was right for me to keep my distance as an observer as much as possible, and I did intend on doing that for the time being, but it was always possible a situation might arise where I would need to act.


    Sung-gu used a skill.


    Its probably Fire Arrow.


    He didnt seem all that concerned by the possibility of drawing the monsters aggro. Sunhwa had joined us, sticking close to Sung-gus side. She was taking action on her own, without needing me to exin the details.


    An arrow made of firended directly on the wing of one of the two Inmyeonjo that had appeared.


    Sung-gu said to me, The goal isnt to kill them anyway, right?


    Right.


    The goal right now was to protect Sunghyun, not hunt the monsters.


    The cooltime on this skill is short, so Ill keep giving cover fire. If I pull the aggro, Sunhwa, help me out a bit.


    Sung-gu used another Fire Arrow. Jo Sunghyun continued to mber down along the Central Pirs mana, not very bothered by the Inmyeonjo that had spawned right in front of him.


    Hell be down s


    At that moment, I saw something. Something was crawling up the pir from the ground, a monster about 2 metersrge with the shape of a lizard.


    Bigmouth Lizard LVL 22


    It was a lizard that could open its mouth incredibly wide. The monster was crawling rapidly up the Central Pir, opening its mouth wide as if to swallow Sunghyun alive.


    That thing itself wont be a problem.


    But if Sunghyun were to slip out of the mana current because of it?


    Hed die.


    And I couldnt let that happen.


    [Using the special skill sh Step.]


    I approached the Central Pir quickly, then began to climb it. Even though I couldnt go all that high, I could certainly catch up to the lizard. Iunched myself at it, tightly grasping its slender body with my legs. Then, I raised my dagger and stabbed it in the crown of its head.


    [Using the skill Excellent Strike.]


    Thankfully, this lizard monsters skin was extremely thin, and it wasnt a monster with very high defense.


    <i>Splurt! Splurt! Splurt! Splurt!</i>


    My hand went down multiple times, green blood pouring out the entire time.


    <i>Szzzzzz!</i>


    The acidic monster bloodnded on my body, but I didnt flinch. Right now, I was wearing Great Orc Warrior armor, which was used all throughout the mid-game.


    While I was doing that, Sunghyun passed me and continued down. Sunghyun seemed to know exactly what he needed to do, too. In the end, his two feet touched the ground.


    [Bigmouth Lizard has been hunted.]


    [EXP is decreased.]


    [Items will not be dropped.]


    That was fine. A reduction in EXP was an eptable loss right now. It stung a little, but it was a loss I could swallow.


    But just then, I got notices.


    [The Lady of the Scales is impressed.]


    [The Lady of the Scales gives you a sponsorship of 300 Coins.]


    [The Nameless Observer continues to observe.]


    There was even another kind of notice.


    [The Barrier of Blue Light wants to help you.]


    [The Barrier of Blue Light states their strong will to sponsor you.]


    What?


    Helping was helping, and sponsoring was sponsoring, so what was stating their strong will to sponsor all about? Were they just expressing aloud their desire to help me?


    [The Barrier of Blue Light promises a big sponsorship.]


    I didnt know what they would give me. For now, I decided to focus on what was more important and clear this ce.


    So now the Offering Boxs influence will kick in.


    A notice confirmed my thoughts.


    [The Offering Box holy relic is beginning to assert its influence.]


    ____


    ____

 Chapter 76: The Offering Box (2)

    Chapter 76: The Offering Box (2)


    The Offering Box reached the ground.


    [The Offering Box holy relic is beginning to assert its influence.]


    [The Offering Box holy relic calms the wind blowing in the Hill of Blowing Wind.]


    [The Offering Box holy relic heals all who are injured.]


    [The Offering Box holy relic eliminates all monsters.]


    Thanks to the Offering Boxs effects, we were out of the woods. The wind disappeared, as did the monsters. All injuries were treated. Naturally, the unconscious Kim Taechun also got up.


    ...Dammit. Let my guard down.


    He grumbled, but he didnt tantly seek trouble with Yoohyun. He must have sensed that the atmosphere had changed somehow and wanted to see how the situation proceeded.


    Alright. Then we have to move onto the next part.


    In order to clear this gate, we had to satisfy the Offering Box. Anyone could click the Offering Box, and anyone could read its description.


    [Offering Box of the Wind Temple]


    A small box for collecting offerings. Those whoe to the Temple of Wind must show their sincerity to this Offering Box. When the Offering Box is full, the Blessing of the Wind Temple will be granted.


    The same quest was given to everyone who clicked on it.


    [Quest: Donate 100k Coins!]


    [Quest reward: Hill of Blowing Wind clear]


    So basically, the final quest of this ce was to donate 100k Coins to the Offering Box. No matter who made the donation, the gate would be cleared. How much someone donated would not be publicized.


    In the past, Jo Sunghyun put it like this:


    <em>In the end, we started putting in Coins in order of time of arrival, leaving it to peoples consciences. There was no way to check how much each person put in. Still, we thought it was the most reasonable method.</em>


    Jo Sunghyun did say that he had dumped all 15,000 Coins he had on him at the time.


    Thats why Sunghyun was chosen by the Offering Box.


    He put in 15,000 Coins and was chosen by the Offering Box. In other words, all of the other yers put in less than 15,000 Coins.


    There were probably a lot of people who pretended to donate but didnt.


    On the other hand, the rather naive Jo Sunghyun invested his entire fortune. He might have done so thinking that it was something a person should do, the right thing to do so that everyone could live.


    If its the same as the past I just have to donate at least 15,000 Coins.


    Then, I would be chosen by the Offering Box.


    The de-facto leader right now, Yoohyun, stated his opinion. Should we go around and put in as many Coins as each person can handle?


    Everyone shuffled awkwardly. It wasnt surprising. The clear would be achieved even if you didnt put in any Coins and someone else did it instead. Naturally, what ended up happening was that people went up one by one, pretending to put in Coins. I couldnt see anything with Eye of Perception or Observers Eye.


    I cant see how much they put in.


    It was my turn.


    I


    I checked how many Coins I had. I had 21,500 Coins left after buying Enhancement Crystals and Element Affinity Powder, but Darongi had earned more Coins in the meantime.


    [Held Coins: 31,500]


    The theft genius Darongi had stolen again from the promising thief Gu Sungmin. It was a very good development for me.


    [Set how many Coins you will offer to the Offering Box.]


    [Coins: ______ ]


    In the past, Sunghyun was chosen by the Offering Box with 15,000 Coins.


    [Coins: 30,000]


    [Offer 30,000 Coins?]


    There was a second confirmation notice, and I invested 30,000 Coins just like that. After all, the Coins themselves werent important right now, so I decided to y it a little safer. I would probably be the person who donated the most Coins here.


    A few people did yell out that theyd been robbed.


    Huh? My Coins?


    M-My Coins have disappeared!


    However, they quickly shut up. Making a big fuss about their Coins disappearing in a situation like this was the same thing as saying I dont have Coins, so I cant pay. Even if they were frustrated, they couldnt quite say so. They could only pretend to put Coins in the Offering Box.


    Sunghyun also went up to the Offering Box and put in Coins. Not long after that, a notice rang out.


    [The Offering Box is full of offerings.]


    [The Blessing of the Wind Temple will be granted to the yers who havee here.]


    The Offering Box was filled faster than I expected. I put in 30k, and Sunghyun probably put in 15k. Collecting the remaining 55k didnt take as long as I thought.


    [Once the rewards calction of the sh Gate Hill of Blowing Wind has concluded, all yers will automatically leave the gate.]


    The yers rejoiced. With the Ghosts appearing and strong gusts killing the yers, approximately fifteen people died here.


    The victim count is far lower.


    In the past, at least 150 people had died. Compared to that, we experienced 1/10 of the loss. I would just have to see what kind of butterfly effects this result would have in the future.


    A yellow [!] appeared over the Offering Box. It was apparently only visible to me. When I clicked it with my eyes, a message popped up.


    [The Offering Box has chosen you.]


    [You are granted the Offering Boxs reward.]


    The Offering Box would only reward one personthe yer who donated the most Coins.


    [The Offering Box will determine what you most need.]


    This was the reward Id wanted. The System would calcte what I needed and dole out an appropriate reward.


    [The Offering Box responds to your need.]


    [The Offering Box grants you the special ability Cognitive Dissonance.]


    Special ability, Cognitive Dissonance. Id never heard of it before. There was an immense number of innate abilities and special abilities in the world. Someone might have had this one before, but it wasnt one I had heard of. I checked it right away.


    [Cognitive Dissonance]


    The special ability granted by the Wind Temples Offering Box after determining what the yer needed. Cognitive dissonance refers to the phenomenon that urs when there are discrepancies or inconsistencies with what one believes and actually sees. This ability, which forcefully creates dissonance between what is seen and what is perceived, will be a great help when concealing the yers abilities, achievements, or crimes. The ability of this dissonance is tied to ones talent, whereby its efficacy and effect are based on the yers innate talent.<ul><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Duration: 30 minutes</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Cooldown: 12 hours</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Conditions to use:</li></ul><ol><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">The will to assist from a Guardian with [Bulwark] [Hallucination] [Illusion] [Defense] [Fortress] [Mountain Fortress] [Barrier] [Eye] [Apparition] in their name.</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">A body that has awakened an innate ability rted to perception.</li></ol>


    It was an ability that forcefully created disparity between what one saw with their eyes and what one actually perceived.


    And the use and effect is determined by my talent.


    Since Id never used it before, I didnt know what exactly that would look like. However, this special ability had conditions for its use.


    The first ones settled.


    I recalled the notice I had heard earlier.


    [The Barrier of Blue Light wants to help you.]


    [The Barrier of Blue Light states their strong will to sponsor you.]


    A Guardian with [Barrier] in their name strongly expressed their desire to help me. So as long as the Barrier of Blue Light didnt retract their will to assist me, I could keep using this ability.


    The other condition was satisfied as well.<ol start="2"><li>A body that has awakened an innate ability rted to perception.</li></ol>


    I satisfied both of the conditions required to use the reward I got. I was happy, but the other yers heard a notice that was a little baffling to them.


    [The rewards calction has concluded.]


    * * *


    People began to murmur.


    Anyone get a reward?


    I didnt get anything?


    Did anyone get something?


    I stayed silent. There was no reason for me to step forward. However, notices even I hadnt expected rang out.


    [Determining the number of remaining pirs.]


    [Calcting a special additional reward.]


    Oh, wow.


    The reward is increased if you leave pirs intact?


    In the past, all of the pirs were destroyed. But this time, we only destroyed twelve pirs. There were still six left.


    Huh? Look over there!


    One of the pirs glowed blue and turned to dust, disappearing. The motes of blue light looked like they would be scattered into the air, but then, they began to fly over like a cloud of fireflies.


    Its heading


    I could tell.


    Towards me.


    This was basically screaming to the whole world, GUYS, I GOT THE REWARD! I couldnt even refuse it. I didnt know how effective it would be, but I decided to use the ability I just got right away.


    [Using the special ability Cognitive Dissonance.]


    [Cognitive Dissonance is an ability based on the yers innate talent.]


    [The ability to perceive reality is being distorted.]


    The way to use it came to me naturally, like a baby knowing how to breathe without being taught.


    [Calcting the use/effect/range of Cognitive Dissonance in real time.]


    I just automatically made a calction in my head, drawing out the situation I wanted to see. Just like when I designed my future based on what I knew, I did the same now.


    Ill make a distortion so that people cannot perceive the sight of me getting the reward.


    I made it so that the yers wouldnt focus on me. It was like looking at trees on the side of the roadunless you concentrated and counted how many trees there were, you wouldnt remember it and just think, Huh? How many trees were there? Or wait, were there even trees there?


    This is Cognitive Dissonance.


    It was a strange feeling, like I was imnting a situation in peoples minds the way I wanted. Though temporary, I used this ability to create the phenomenon of cognitive dissonance.


    [The duration of Cognitive Dissonance is set to 30 minutes.]


    It was fascinating.


    Im not drawing any attention.


    It was as if people werent able to mentally process what they were seeing with their eyes. In the end, the blue dust poured onto my head.


    [Granting the Blessing of the Wind Temple.]


    It was the thing that had been in the description of the Offering Box.


    When the Offering Box is full, the Blessing of the Wind Temple will be granted.


    In the past, no one got the Blessing because all of the pirs were destroyed. It was different this time.


    [5,000 Coins acquired.]


    Another pir became dust and showered down on me.


    [5,000 Coins acquired.]


    I got 5,000 Coins each from five pirs. This was literally winner takes all. The other yers didnt get a single scrap of rewards, but Id already gotten 25,000 Coins.


    Thest one.


    If I got another 5,000 Coins from thest pir, that would make 30,000 Coins total, which would mean I broke even. The 6th pir disappeared, bing glowing blue dust and falling down on me.


    [5,000 Coins acquired.]


    From this part alone, I got 30k Coins. However, it didnt even end there.


    [Granting the Blessing of the Wind Temple.]


    [Confirming that you have 6 Blessings.]


    [The Hidden Piece 6 Blessings has been fulfilled.]


    Six Blessings. If at least six pirs were left intact, this Hidden Piece would be fulfilled.


    So there was something like this!


    What Sunghyun said in the past about how it would have been perfect if only about twelve pirs were destroyed was actually turning into reality. In any case, this was great. The more rewards there were, the better.


    [30 minutes left in the duration of Cognitive Dissonance.]


    [Dramatically increases your wind-attribute affinity.]


    In addition, I got an item.


    What?


    This could be gotten here?


    Venti Body Tome


    It was an item, a magic tome, that was discovered less than ten times over ten years. It was the wind version of the Vulcan Body Tome that Choi Sung-gu currently had.


    There should only be about five wind element sses


    But this tome had already shown up.


    The Vulcan Body Tome is already out, and theres now that says the Venti Body Tome shouldnte out, too, but


    This was an item that enormously amplified the abilities and talent of a wind element ss, a special artifact that would turn an ordinary guy into a talent, and a talent into a genius.


    If someone who was already specialized in the wind element were to use this someone like Jo Sunghyun

 Chapter 77: Tomb of the Wind Warrior

    Chapter 77: Tomb of the Wind Warrior


    If someone who was already specialized in the wind element were to use this someone like Jo Sunghyun


    That effect would be indescribable, like making a genius to trump all geniuses. Just as I was thinking that, I saw something. Something was sticking out of Sunghyuns back.


    You whats that?


    When I looked closer, I realized what that was.


    A candle.


    Specifically


    A Bluelight Candle.


    It was called a Bluelight Candle. Like the name suggested, the candle was burning with a blue me.


    When the light is extinguished, a new field will be opened.


    This ss of items was called random artifacts because you never knew when or where they would appear. One kind of random artifact, candles, had two different typesRedlight Candles, and Bluelight Candles.


    Yeonseo also went up to Sunghyun, saying, Whats with this candle-like thing on your back? Its blue.


    Next to her, Sunhwa also stared at the light with fascination. Amazing. The candle is attached to your back. Do you think it would go out if I blew on it? I wanna try.


    The way her eyes sparkled was really cute. It struck me a lot these days, but I was truly d she became my sister. Her cuteness blessed me every day.


    You cant blow it out.


    Got it.


    Despite being at a rebellious age, she was very obedient.


    Turning to me, Sunghyun asked, Do you happen to know what this is?


    Nope.


    I pretended to just be observing.


    If its blown out too quickly, the difficulty will be too high.


    By the same token, if the me went outpletely because it was blown out toote, the candle would disappear. We had to blow it out before the wickpletely burned up.


    Dayum, this is one fascinating me. Im amazing when ites to fire, you know.


    Thanks to the Vulcan Body Tome, Choi Sung-gus dormant potential for the fire element was second to none. He seemed to find the candlelight very fascinating.


    I think something new will happen if this is blown out?


    He was pretty much right on the money.


    But I get the feeling that it shouldnt be blown out too quickly.


    From the way he guessed it with one nce, a genius was indeed a genius. Sung-gus gaze turned to me.


    Whatll we do?


    * * *


    Whatll we do?


    With that one question, Jo Sunghyun became absolutely sure of something. The true leader of this group was Kim Hyukjin. He was a little confused. Honestly, he hadnt thought there would be someone who would be above the Tutorial Ender. He had also seen Shin Yeonseos movements earlier, and they were simply incredible.


    If I were to face her


    He would lose, no doubt about it. She was amazing, as was Kim Sunhwa, who had a ridiculous tanking ability. And of course, there was Choi Sung-gu, whose fire magic was obviously the most outstanding out of all the magicians here. But all of them were waiting for Hyukjins words and judgment, like it was natural.


    That must mean that Hyukjin hyung is just that amazing.


    It was so very natural, the way Sung-gu asked for Hyukjins opinion. When he saw it, Sunghyun felt a feeling akin to longing surge up within him.


    I want to learn.


    * * *


    Unbeknownst to him, his feelings and gaze had already been picked up by my Eye of Perception.


    State: Slight Longing / Trust / Faith


    I had achieved my goal ining hereacquiring Jo Sunghyuns trust.


    The candle offers greater reward than risk.


    It was even a Bluelight Candle. There was a high chance for a bigger reward.


    Also, whoever blows out the Bluelight Candle can pick the yers who will participate.


    It was decided. If it was low risk, high return, giving it a go was the only answer, at least in my opinion.


    [The Nameless Observer is watching you.]


    [The Lady of the Scales is waiting for your choice.]


    [The Courageous Lion King is impatient.]


    [The Barrier of Blue Light regards your prudence in high esteem.]


    [The Whispering Devil is bored.]


    I waited a little longer.


    I have to get the timing right.


    I had to wait for the point where the wick was almostpletely burned out. 0.5 seconds could very well make a huge difference in the difficulty. It was random.


    Now!


    I blew on the Bluelight Candle.


    <i>Hoo!</i>


    The moment I blew, the light went out, and a notice immediately rang out.


    [The Bluelight Candle has gone out.]


    [Perfect timing!]


    [The timing could not be any better.]


    I got the feeling I heard fanfare.


    [The perfect timing greatly decreases the difficulty.]


    [The perfect timing greatly increases the rewards.]


    I also heard the party selection notice.


    [Select the yers who will proceed. Maximum raid participants: 6]


    I picked right away. Jo Sunghyun, Choi Sung-gu, So Yoohyun, Kim Sunhwa, Shin Yeonseo, and finally, Kim Hyukjin.


    Was this made for me? Or is it because my timing was so spot on?


    I couldnt be sure, but how was it possible that even the max party limit was perfect for us? In any case, it was a good thing. The wind, a refreshing breeze, began to blow again.


    []


    It blew gently in whimsical directions. At the same time, the stream of notices continued.


    [Leaving the sh Gate Hill of Blowing Wind and entering the sh Gate Tomb of the Wind Warrior.]


    * * *


    Our surroundings were quiet. A gloomy fog had settled over the dark scenery, giving off the feeling of a poorly maintained cemetery or an abandoned field. asionally, there was the raucous cawing of a crow.


    Eugh, fuck. Im scared. Sung-gu grabbed my right arm.


    Hy-Hyungnim. I dont like this, said Yoohyun, clutching my left arm. Then, he shivered all over, squealing, A-Ahhh! It-Its a mouse! A mouse! I hate mice! He was half clinging to me, and trust me, I was over it.


    If the two of you dont get off right now, Ill kill you right here and now.


    It might be different if it were Yeonseo or Sunhwa, but what were these guys who were bigger than me doing?


    Well, it doesnt seem like theyre actually terrified.


    Sung-gus state was:


    State: Fascination / Slight Fear / Bravado


    And Yoohyuns was:


    State: Slightly Scared / Determination / A Little Afraid


    Since fascination and determination were there, they would do just fine if we had to keep ying. Just then, I picked up something with Eye of Perception.


    On your toes, everyone.


    It was a Bluelight Candle, and I extinguished it at the perfect timing. The difficulty shouldnt be terribly high, but we couldnt be careless.


    The ground shook. A slight distance away, a tomb began to emerge from the ground. From it, I felt something familiar.


    This feeling is


    It felt like something Id already experienced before, a monster that I had already fought before.


    Great Orc Warrior?


    A Great Orc Warrior was getting to its feet. Next to it, other tombs wereing up as well, but


    Theyre just for show.


    Nothing woulde out of them. The difficulty was greatly reduced. If my guess was right, it should have originally been a Great Orc Warrior plus an Orc Archer and maybe one or two regr Orcs to support the Orc Archer. Weirdly enough, I just knew that.


    I can see it.


    Even without seeing it happen, I could envision what this ces difficulty should have originally been, and how it would have progressed.


    Two Orc Archers. One regr Orc. And a Great Orc Warrior.


    Thats what we would have been up against, and if that had really happened, it might have been a little tough for us at our current level but not impossible. If we had moved well as an organic team, that was a challenge we could have definitely managed, though it would have been quite tricky if there were three or four Orcs guarding the Orc Archers.


    Yeonseo pulled out her sword.


    I get what this is about.


    Yeonseo seemed to have sensed it, too. She knew that we had to fight the Great Orc Warrior, a monster we had fought in the past.


    Hyukjin, you still have one of the steel stakes we usedst time, right?


    How admirable. She remembered the strategy.


    Yeah, I do.


    Just then, I heard a notice.


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas offers a new quest.]


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas shares the details of the new quest.]


    [In ordance with the request of the Herdsman of Las Vegas, a Pause takes effect.]


    The Herdsman of Las Vegas, who relished gambling, offered me a quest. A note was in my Inventory.<ol><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Can activate the quest Secret Within the Tomb of the Wind Warrior. If you ept the quest, the difficulty will be adjusted to the original difficulty of the Tomb of the Wind Warrior, and an additional five Orcs will be spawned.</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Upon quest clear, you will receive 100,000 Coins.</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Upon quest clear, you will receive Great Orc Warriors Gloves.</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Upon quest clear, you will receive U-Plex Dungeon First Entry Rights.</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Upon quest failure, all party members will die.</li></ol>


    100,000 Coins was a given, but what really caught my eye was the U-Plex Dungeon First Entry Rights. It had to refer to the U-Plex next to the Hyundai Department Store in Sinchon, the Seoul district Sunhwa and I went aroundst time. I would obtain the right to enter that dungeon even though it wasnt even formally open yet.


    Does that mean itll open to us, first?


    It was never revealed in the past how that dungeon opened up.


    Thats somewhere I absolutely have to go.


    Plus, I would get Great Orc Warriors Gloves. For a wearer of the partial set like myself, it was truly a tantalizing offer. This fellow, the Herdsman of Las Vegas, didnt put up a bad offer.


    Yoohyun asked, Hyungnim, what should we do about this?


    The fact that we could all talk to each other in the Paused field meant that my party members also got the same proposal.


    It wouldnt just be an additional two Orcs, but <i>five.</i> And they wouldnt be regr Orcs, but ones that would be closely guarding the two Orc Archers.


    Clearing that difficulty the way we are right now is impossible.


    The one who made this proposal was none other than the Herdsman of Las Vegas.


    The Herdsman of Las Vegass proposal is pretty much a gamble.


    It was a dangerous but simultaneously attractive gamble. The Gold Pyramid Michelle sessfully won all her gambles with the Herdsman of Las Vegas and once stood at the peak of the sovereign-ss yers. Which meant if I could win this Guardians bets, that was also possible for me.


    But it bothers me that all party members would die if we fail the quest


    This time, Yeonseo spoke up. Boss. I think it would be good to ept this offer.


    Howe?


    Because I think we can definitely clear it?


    But what in the world was her summary all about?


    Summary: Swordsman Putting Faith in Their Wife


    The strange summary aside, I had to make a decision as their leader. To be honest, I was thinking along the same lines as Yeonseo. A slight risk for a huge reward.


    Ill take a closer look.


    Since we were in a Pause anyway, I examined the field again and again with Observers Eye. This was a matter where our lives were on the line. If my observations and intuition were wrong, then everyone would be in danger. If it was going to be too dangerous, staying out of it was the right thing to do. Because if we died, everything would be over.


    Originally, clearing would be impossible.


    But for some reason, there was confidence bubbling within me, confidence that we could do this.


    [3 minutes remaining until the Pause is deactivated.]


    I had to make a decision.


    Sunghyun.


    Yes?


    This kid was the still-unripe Incarnation of Hammurabi. He would repay a favor with a favor twice over, and a grudge with a grudge ten times over. That was the Typhoons irond rule.


    Ill let you hold onto this.


    We couldnt ept the Herdsman of Las Vegas offer at our current level. It would be too dangerous if we did that.


    But if we did it with a Venti Body Tomed Sunghyun


    It was more than doable. Not only would we be able to get out of here alive, but we would also be able to gain a hefty reward.


    ...Huh?


    Im not giving it to you. Im letting you borrow it.


    I handed over the Venti Body Tome.


    Th-This is


    Sunghyun wouldnt realize the exact value of this item. However, he should be able to tell that it was incredibly good, and hed realize that even more after he experienced its effects.


    Repay a favor with a favor. Im giving this to you because I think this item is better suited to you than to me.


    ...


    So that we can survive this.


    ...I understand.


    Sunghyun didnt refuse as vehemently as Sung-gu. It wasnt that hard to get him to ept.


    Summary: Incarnation of Hammurabi Resolved to Repay a Favor


    Use it right away. Itll likely cause a big change in your body. It was the same for Sung-gu.


    ...


    If a genius of the wind element was boosted by the Venti Body Tome, theyd be a genius exceeding geniuses.


    ...Im not sure this is okay.


    Its okay. You can just repay me back twofold.


    ...I dont understand what you see in me to be this generous.


    Hm, potential?


    ...


    It was obvious to everyone that Sunghyun was deeply moved. In any case, this was good. To clear this ce safely, Sunghyuns awakening was necessary.


    The Herdsman of Las Vegas bnced the proposal with our strength.


    He set the difficulty so that we would barely be able to clear it, making it just hard enough that a mistake would spell our death. I was sure he set it to around that level, and it was exactly the sort of thing the expert gambler the Herdsman of Las Vegas would do.


    But he didnt know I had the Venti Body Tome. I hadnt publicized it. If we have Sunghyun with the effects of the Venti Body Tome applied


    Then the bnce the Herdsman of Las Vegas envisioned wouldpletely fall apart. The scales of the gamble would tip our way.


    Thank you. I will do my best to live up to your expectations.


    Sunghyuns words were full of sincerity.


    Thats right, repay this favor twofold, I thought with satisfaction. Because although Im not doing this just for you or investing only in you, a favors a favor.


    I will use it right now.


    Go ahead.


    Sunghyun used the Venti Body Tome. A strong wind enveloped Sunghyun and whirled around with him in the center. The tempestuously raging wind was absorbed by his body. That alone changed his aura. The process took about one minute.


    Were ready.


    There was about one minute before the Pause ended. The preparations were finished.


    So theres only one thing left to do.


    Senia, I said. I want to convey a proposal to the Herdsman of Las Vegas.


    Like they said, strike while the iron was hot. After hearing what I said, Senia, who had been streaming us in her transparent state, urgently sent me a whisper request.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. Are you out of your mind?


    <i>Dont worry, Senia. My mind is perfectly sound, and Im confident I can create a far more favorable picture and situation.</i>


    Did you forget what I said before?


    What are you talking about?


    The Herdsman of Las Vegas opened the doors to this stage. That was ithe only opened the doors.


    From here on out, I would be the one to set the stage.

 Chapter 78: Tomb of the Wind Warrior (2)

    Chapter 78: Tomb of the Wind Warrior (2)


    In the past, when the Herdsman of Las Vegas proposed a gamble with me, I refused. Back then, I said this:


    <i>I want to be the one who orchestrates the probability and makes a situation where I can win. Only idiots would let themselves be blinded by the tantalizing reward and bet without any information.</i>


    <i>Thats why I refused. A gamble entrusted to luck alone is no different from throwing the game.</i>


    That was the answer I came up with after using all of the knowledge at my disposal and thoroughly analyzing the disposition of the Guardian that made the proposal.


    Naturally, it was well received. The Herdsman of Las Vegas sent me signals that he respected my thoughts and was satisfied with them.


    There was also a notice like this:[A great number of anonymous Guardians ridicule you.]


    Many of the same Guardians were probably watching me through Senia right now. Back then, they must have ridiculed me a great deal.


    I want to make a counter proposal. A kind of bet. Id like you to convey my intent to the Herdsman of Las Vegas.


    To that, Senia responded like this:


    yer Kim Hyukjin. Are you out of your mind?


    Of course, my mind was perfectly sound.


    Did you forget what I said before?


    What are you talking about?


    I dont do luck-based gambles. I will orchestrate the chances and set the board.


    But even so, what qualifies you to make a counter proposal to a Guardian?


    Why not? Is there anyw saying I cant? Is that forbidden in the Commandments?


    Senia was speechless. It was natural, since there was no notion of this in Senias mind. It was because I knew that the peak of sovereign sses, the Gold Pyramid Michelle, had made bets and counter proposals with the Herdsman of Las Vegas for many years that I could brazenly offer a counter proposal.


    The Herdsman of Las Vegas actually likes these kinds of counter proposals and bets more.


    It was different for every Guardian. You couldnt make a counter proposal to a Guardian who was arrogant and looked down on yers as trashthey mightbel you as impudent.


    But not the Herdsman of Las Vegas.


    Senias worries were indeed unfounded.


    See? I said you didnt need to worry, Miss Beginner Streamer. Matching your response to the other partys disposition is ying 101.[The Herdsman of Las Vegas is interested in your counter proposal.]


    Senias wingtips trembled. She was wearing a mask of expressionlessness, but I could see traces of shock, and she was saying something I couldnt hear. She was probably exining something to the Guardians.[The Herdsman of Las Vegas wants to hear the details of your counter proposal.]


    As expected of the famous Gold Pyramids Guardian, he very generously used another Pause, even though it was said to be an extremely expensive authority.


    [The Pause has been prolonged.]


    [2 minutes have been added to the Pause.]


    With that, I had a total of three minutes. I got a whisper from Senia.


    Do not underestimate the Guardians.


    I knew that. If he didnt like my proposal, I would be greatly penalized for the offensive crime of deceiving the Herdsman of Las Vegas.


    I know that, too.


    There was no such thing as perfect. I was expanding and manipting this board, but I couldnt control everything and have things go exactly as I wanted. I wasnt a god.


    But the return is far greater than the risk.


    This sort of thing was called an investment. When the rewards I could expect were far greater than the risks I had to undertake, it was my belief that I should boldly advance. Because I resolved myself to live differently from the past. Because I decided to be the one to make my own path.[The Herdsman of Las Vegas is waiting.]


    I began to speak. ording to what I have determined with my humble abilities, I believe that in this ce, the Tomb of the Wind Warrior, a Great Orc Warrior, two Orc Archers, and one Orc will appear.


    I didnt see it with my eyes, but my guess was likely spot-on. If we epted the Secret Within the Tomb of the Wind Warrior, an additional five Orcs would spawn, which would make a total of six regr Orcs.


    The Herdsman of Las Vegas has not concretely stated the terms of the new quest.


    Sometimes, there were quests like this, insidious ones where the end goal was left up to interpretation. Such quests were undesirable. Quests with concrete tasks, like Hunt the Great Orc Warrior! or Destroy the Clear Crystal! were good quests.


    The Herdsman of Las Vegas tested me with this proposal.


    He wanted to see if I was truly a yer worth his attention. There was no doubt that he had been curious to see if I was a yer he should sponsor.


    As such, I would like to ask that the quest terms be concretely stated, and at the same time


    With this, I should have secured an easy pass for the Herdsman of Las Vegass test. Considering his disposition, this answer should score a hundred points in his book.


    I would like to propose those concrete terms as a counter proposal.


    Senias wings continued to tremble. Her impudent(?) yer dared to make bets and counter proposals with a Guardian, so she, a powerless beginner Streamer, was unsurprisingly nervous. She seemed way more nervous than me, the person involved. She really had to grow a spine.


    I will make an offering using proof that we have hunted the Great Orc Warrior.


    * * *


    Jo Sunghyun did his best to not miss a single word Hyukjin said.


    Hes making a deal not just on the level of Intermediate Administrators, but on the Guardian level.


    It was a ying method hed never even considered.


    Today Im really learning a lot.


    It felt like a new world opened up to him, like he received enlightenment. Not only that, but even his body changed. His affinity with the wind attribute dramatically increased, and he felt abundant mana, as well as the confidence to be able to achieve all things rted to the wind.


    This is the Venti Body Tome.


    The person who gave him such an incredible item was Kim Hyukjin. Just who was this person? He became curious, and beyond that, he was awed.


    In the end, he sessfully made the deal.


    Sunghyun didnt quite get it.


    Proof that we have hunted the Great Orc Warrior.


    Just what could that be? Did something drop if you hunted a Great Orc Warrior? Did they just have to offer that? Like how they put Coins into the Offering Box?


    No idea.


    He didnt get it, but the quest was about to begin. Hyukjin turned to his party members.


    The quest is starting.


    They heard a notice.[The quest Secret Within the Tomb of the Wind Warrior has been activated.]


    Thanks to Hyukjins efforts, they could now read the quest details.


    [Secret Within the Tomb of the Wind Warrior]


    A Great Orc Warrior has been set as the guardian monster protecting the Tomb of the Wind Warrior. In order to find out the secret within the tomb, acquire the token that proves you have hunted the Great Orc Warrior.<ul><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">An additional five Orcs will be spawned</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Upon quest failure, all party members will die.</li></ul>


    The Paused field returned to life and began to move again. Tombs began to surge up, and the monsters began to appear.


    Shin Yeonseo was a bundle of nerves.


    Just what the heck is this boss guy thinking?


    Rather than a regr hunt, they had to offer the proof of the hunt. If they failed, all of them would die.


    Whatre we gonna do if nothing drops?


    They needed a token proving that they hunted the Great Orc Warrior. She had no idea what that could be, but what if it didnt drop? Even if they barely managed to hunt the Great Orc Warrior, if that didnt show up, then they would fail the quest, right?


    Ah, fudge.


    Whatever. Yeonseo still trusted Hyukjin. Now wasnt the time to be quibbling over what was right or wrong. They had to join forces to clear this quest.


    Boss guy. Should I harass the monsters while Sunhwa pulls the aggro likest time?


    ...


    However, Hyukjin did not respond.


    Boss?


    ...


    In the meantime, the Great Orc Warrior emergedpletely, along with the Orc Archers and regr Orcs. The pressure they put out was incredibly intense.


    Sunhwa swallowed nervously as well. She had seen them before, but she still found monsters scary. They were all gross and toorge.


    Do I just need to pull the aggro likest time?


    Her target would be the Orc Archers. She just needed to block their attacks.


    If I hunt the regr Orcs and buy time with Sung-gu mister, Sunghyun oppa, and Yoohyun mister


    Then Yeonseo unnie and Hyukjin oppa would be able to hunt the Great Orc Warrior together in the meantime. Hyukjin didnt tell her what to do, but she was able toe up with a n.


    But


    To Sunhwa, it looked a little dicey. It wouldnt be easy. She judged that hunting that many monsters with a Great Orc Warrior of all things thrown into the mix with their current party and abilities would be very difficult.


    What in the world could oppa be thinking?


    * * *


    I waited a little longer, until the Great Orc Warrior and the Orcs fully discovered our presence and were directing hostility towards us.


    By now, there should be plenty of attention on us.


    Countless Guardians had to be curious as to how we would clear this difficult quest. That was enough.


    Senia. Here.


    Getting down to one knee, I held out an item to Senia with two hands. My posture was reverent, as if I were offering something.


    I already had proof that we hunted the Great Orc Warrior.


    [Great Orc Warriors Mr]


    A long mr of the Great Orc Warrior. It is imbued with the Great Orc Warriors strength. If processed in a special way and ingested, you will be able to acquire a special power.


    Senia took the item with a sour expression. She might look expressionless to others, but I could see she was wearing a bitter expression. It was written pretty clearly over her face.


    What? Is there any problem?


    Well no.


    I tsked inwardly. Other people aside, Senia should already know I had acquired the Great Orc Warriors Mr.


    When I got the Great Orc Warriors Mr, the Herdsman of Las Vegas wasnt watching me yet.


    To be more precise, it was after we killed the Great Orc Warrior and got all the rewards that the Herdsman of Las Vegas started to watch me. The timing simply aligned like that, and that was why I made a bet like this.


    [The quest clear condition has been satisfied.]


    [A portion of the Secret Within the Tomb of the Wind Warrior has been cleared.]


    [The approval of the Herdsman of Las Vegas is necessary for theplete clear of the Secret Within the Tomb of the Wind Warrior.]


    Looked like that would take some time.[The System has forcefully applied a Pause.]


    The monsters stopped in ce. My party members stared at me in total shock. They must have been racking their brains to figure out what to do, but the quest was partially cleared out of nowhere.


    [The Whispering Devil is delighted.]


    [The Courageous Lion King is greatly disappointed.]


    [The Nameless Observer continues to observe.]


    This time, I was the one to send Senia a whisper request.


    What are you doing?


    What do you mean?


    Ive set the stage. I pulled a fast one on the Herdsman of Las Vegas just now, and a lot of Guardians must be watching.


    The Herdsman of Las Vegas wouldnt be displeased. I was sure of it. He would definitely just think that my hand of cards was better than his. That was confirmed by the notice I heard next.


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas is impressed by your hand.]


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas is debating whether he should acknowledge theplete clear.]


    I know the Herdsman of Las Vegas is satisfied with my clear, I thought. He acknowledged that I had a good hand.


    So the reason why he was debating acknowledging theplete clear was solely because of the other Guardians. That was why I whispered Senia.


    Arent the other Guardians kicking up a fuss, saying this isnt a proper clear?


    Guardians like the Courageous Lion King would be particrly outraged. Even I had to admit that my y just now was a little sneaky.


    This kind of ying was prizing. Guardians with dispositions like the Herdsman of Las Vegas would definitely be okay with it, but there were bound to be quite a lot of Guardians who wouldnt like it.


    Thats why you need to step up and take an active role. Youre an Intermediate Administrator.


    Obeying the rules of the System, while saving the Herdsman of Las Vegass face and simultaneously pushing for content that would satisfy the Guardians, wasnt that what an Intermediate Administrator, a Streamer, should do? They were producers of content that could satisfy a great number of Guardians.


    You should either give me a new quest or round up the suckers.


    In other words, what Senia needed to do right now was guide the situation so that another Guardian would issue a new quest in a way that didnt vite the rules of the System, thus satisfying the countless Guardians who wanted to see us hunt that horde of Orcs.


    One of these amusement-addicted Guardians will issue a quest for us to hunt those Orcs. Definitely.


    But they couldnt just issue it outright. I had already satisfied the clear condition. As far as the System was concerned, the quest could be cleared with one word from the Herdsman of Las Vegas. So if the Guardians wanted to dismiss that clear and make us clear it again, they would need to offer something more.


    An extra reward should be attached.


    In cases like this, where the quest had to be cleared a second time, it was typical to offer a bigger reward. Of course, the yer would be able to choose whether they epted or not.


    We will hunt the Orcs.


    That was my n from the beginning. I was just trying to maximize the rewards right now, but I always intended on taking on the original gamble. For a moment, Senia was speechless, perhaps out of shock. I grinned.


    Do you really intend on hunting them? That horde of Orcs?


    Her wings quivered.


    I told you, didnt I? I will set the stage.

 Chapter 79: Tomb of the Wind Warrior (3)

    Chapter 79: Tomb of the Wind Warrior (3)


    Senia herself admitted that she didnt have much of a gift of gab. She had little confidence when it came to expressing herself with words, and consequently, she tended not to say much when streaming yers.


    Among the Guardians, as well as the other Intermediate Administrators, she was starting to be called the Intermediate Administrator of Silence.


    I am well aware that it isnt really a good moniker.


    Intermediate Administrator of Silence sounded good enough, but frankly put, it was Streamer who cant talk. In any case, Senia knew that very well, so she chose the strategy of simply being tight-lipped. She could afford to do so because she had such good quality content, Kim Hyukjin.


    But


    This time, she could not be taciturn. She heard Hyukjins words.


    I told you, didnt I? I will set the stage.


    He was a yer far weaker than herself. But despite that, he was forging ahead with such a y.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. You are right.


    From his actions, his confidence, and his words, she realized something. She herself grasped what she had to do right now, and how she should do it.


    And so, she opened her mouth.


    The clear condition has been satisfied. However, I believe this may not be a very gratifying clear for many of you. That is also the reason why the Herdsman of Las Vegas is debating whether he should acknowledge the clear.


    Even as she spoke, Senia surprised herself. It felt like the longest string of words she spoke in her entire streaming career. And she had the feeling that she could actually speak quite well; it was just that she hadnt practiced it much.


    ...So if there is anyone who would bestow a new quest given within the prescribed rules, I would be grateful for your participation.


    The quest was already cleared. To coerce another clear, a force of equal value would be necessary. In other words, a reward.


    A little time passed. Hyukjin and his party members heard new notices.


    [The Courageous Lion King and Whispering Devil make a proposal to the yers.]


    [Hunt all the Orc species monsters.]


    [The yers can refuse the Guardians proposal.]


    Senias wings trembled. It felt like she realized something huge today.


    Ah!


    So this was how you were supposed to do it. You could get Coins like this, too. This was precisely that sponsorship inducement shed heard all about.


    [The Courageous Lion King and Whispering Devil have donated 50,000 Coins each.]


    They didnt donate those Coins to the yers. They donated them to her, the Intermediate Administrator, so she could issue a new quest. She, too, would need a small reward for acting as the intermediary. She got a whopping 50k from each of the suckers, as Kim Hyukjin put it. A total of 100k Coins.


    With this!


    She could afford to feed and support her young siblings, who only had her to rely on after their parents passed away. With this, she could give her siblings good clothes and good food.


    This is how you do it.


    Goosebumps rose along her arms. She had the feeling that Hyukjin taught her something big today. Her reaction was not visible to the eye.


    Thank you for the sponsorships. yer Kim Hyukjins party will soon proceed with the Tomb of the Wind Warrior raid.


    And then, her gaze moved to Hyukjin. The Pause would end soon, and the Orcs would appear.


    The cards are stacked against them.


    He gave something to Jo Sunghyun, and after receiving it, there was certainly a change in the young wind magician. However, the difficulty was too high for that to make a difference. It wasnt just three or four Orcs, but a staggering six.


    Orc Archers, regr Orcs. And a Great Orc Warrior. It wont be easy.


    But Hyukjin looked confident. Because she was talking to the Guardians, she wasnt able to fully ry what Hyukjin and the other yers were saying. To be more precise, she intentionally didnt stream it. This, too, was a type of directing technique.


    If its yer Kim Hyukjin, he will havee up with some kind of method.


    It was a lie to say this wouldnt be dangerous. It definitely was. But even so, Hyukjin pushed ahead, which meant he had some kind of trick up his sleeve. He must have shared that n with the other yers.


    I didnt share the method with the Guardians.


    By this point, Senia was curious, too. Just how would Kim Hyukjin hunt that big horde of Orcs?


    How will you do this?


    * * *


    * * *


    Yoohyun understood exactly what he had to do.


    Got it, hyungnim. Ill move exactly like you instructed!


    Yoohyun and Sung-gu fist bumped.


    Ahh! You muscleman, whys your fist so hard?


    Huhuhuhu. Youre just weak, Sung-gu. You weakling.


    Ha. You watch your back, I swear. And watch out for fire. Seriously, if it werent for Hyukjin, I wouldnt bother ying with you.


    Despite the barbed words, the two of them often met up to go to cafs and had run several raids together. They were just loosening their nerves and working up their fighting spirit with a very short conversation. Yeonseo went up to Sung-gu, saying, Whyre you guys quarreling when you cant even fight?


    Yeonseo, Sung-gu, and Yoohyun made one team.


    Sunhwa walked in front of Sunghyun, almost like she was protecting him.


    Youre with me, right, oppa?


    Yeah. Lets do our best.


    Youre supposed to be the core of this battle, oppa. Sunhwa shed him a smile. She was standing in front of Sunghyun with her tiny body. Ill protect you no problem, so please do your best with what my oppa asked you to do!


    The nuance behind my oppa and oppa felt very different when she said them. Of course, my oppa referred to me, and just oppa was Sunghyun. From the nuance to her attitude, her treatment of the two was very different.


    Al-Alright.


    Sunhwa and Sunghyun made another team. I grinned.


    Theyve taken up good positions.


    We didnt have much time. I knew that Senia deliberately didnt stream them while they were preparing, and other Streamers werent contracted with me.


    Its just a guess, but I bet our words were turned into static.


    It was probably something like that.


    Senia, Ill raise your value.


    I heard a notice.


    [The Nameless Observer continues to observe.]


    With this, I was sure of it. The Nameless Observer didnt actively encourage me to stand on the frontlines, but they also didnt dislike me going forward and leading. They simply maintained the position of a neutral observer. Like their name suggested, they were truly just observing. The Nameless Observer was a fairly magnanimous Guardian who didnt forcefully push observation as the ying method.


    I suddenly realized something.


    I was given Onlooker at first, right?


    Observer felt more active than Onlooker.


    If I can upgrade the ss through the 2nd advancement


    If the next ss followed the same trend, there was a high chance I might get a ss that would encourage slightly more active y.


    A ss more active than Observer


    I had an idea of what that would look like. It would be a ss that obtained information through observation and then used that information and knowledge to garner the greatest profit possible. It might end up feeling simr to a sovereign ss.


    Its not set in stone yet.


    I decided to focus on the battle for now. I could feel the Great Orc Warriors intense energy.


    Its okay.


    I wasnt worried. I had faced him once before. That fear of the unknown one felt when facing apletely new opponent had disappeared long ago.


    * * *


    All of the monsters finished appearing.


    [The Great Orc Warrior is starting to roar.]


    At the same time:


    [The morale of the Orcs increases.]


    [The Orcs are bing violent.]


    The Orcs spotted us, [!!!] marks appearing over their heads.


    Your opponent is here, you pieces of scum!


    Yoohyun smashed the ground with a thud, giving off the energy of a massive bull. Yeonseo flew past him.


    [Using the movement skill Heavenly Demonic Flying Step.]


    It was so she could get between the Orcs and disrupt their movements. Trusting them, Choi Sung-gu began to chant an incantation.


    <em>[Speller Kartina Neu-Armi]</em>


    A hard-to-understand special magic incantation flowed from his lips. There were a whopping six regr Orcs. Yeonseo was messing up their advance and movements while Yoohyun was aggroing them. However, it was impossible for him to pull all of the violent Orcs.


    Hyukjin moved to the Orcs with a speed that was neither fast nor slow and used a skill.


    [Using the special skill Mettle.]


    [Mettle]


    Mettle is the aura of a ruler and the higher form of Pressure. It induces instinctive fear and awe in those who are of a lower level than the user.


    Hyukjins level was 30, and the Orcs was around level 27.


    [Using the special skill Mettle.]


    [Using the special skill Mettle.]


    Yoohyun and Yeonseo also used Mettle at the same time. They had gained the ability with Hyukjin, and theirbined Mettle squashed the Orcs.


    A smile floated to Yeonseos lips. The Orcs movements definitely dulled, and their reaction speed was also greatly slowed. Mettle had the ability to overwhelm multiple lower level creatures.


    With this we should be able to hunt them.


    She wasnt the Shin Yeonseo of the past. Yoohyun and Sung-gu were the same. They had been able to hunt Orcs even when their levels were low, but now, they were five levels higher than the Orcs. There might be a lot of Orcs, but they were up against three yers.


    Yoohyun yelled Oryaaa as he punched.


    <em>Squeaaaaaal!</em>


    He struck one of the Orcs right in the sr plexus.


    Its just as hyungnim said.


    The Orc Archers didnt have a chance to look their waythey were perfectly aggroed by Sunhwa.


    <em>Fwip fwip!</em>


    Two arrows were fired in session. One aimed for Sunhwas forehead, and the other her heart. Staring directly at the arrows, Sunhwa said, Oppa, and used a skill at the same time.


    [Using the skill tinum Shield.]


    To that, the prepared Sunghyun added his magic.


    <em>[Wendies Napera]</em>


    Wind began to blow. Earlier, Hyukjin had instructed him to recall the wind that blew in the Hill of Blowing Wind. He cast his spell while imagining those gusts.


    <em>Visualize those gusts in your own way and recreate them. They dont have to be strong. They just need to slightly change the trajectory of the arrows so that Sunhwa can avoid a direct hit.</em>


    When he was listening, he wasnt sure he could do it. But hed grasped it right away when he tried. After using the Venti Body Tome, he could visualize the wind.


    I can do this!


    He became sure he could do it.


    Its like Hyukjin hyung said.


    Hyukjins suggestion was spot on. Two small arrows appeared.


    []


    He produced a wind so feeble it was hardly fair topare it to the gusts from the Hill of Blowing Wind.


    Wind that can change the trajectory.


    He only needed to give them a slight nudge. He also wasnt casting an AOE spell to cover the entire field, just the two arrows. He focused. Boosted by the Venti Body Tome, his body had be incredibly sensitive to wind.


    <em>nk!</em>


    As the metallic sound rang out, Sunhwa smiled brightly.


    There wasnt much impact. Oppa, I think you did it.


    They brushed off two arrows with ease. At that moment, Sunghyun felt a pounding that could not be put into words. It wasnt something he felt from Sunhwa, but a pounding that came from deep within.


    What is this feeling?


    It felt like he had stepped foot on apletely new world.


    My heart is pounding.


    He simply listened and acted ording to Hyukjins words. Both Sunhwa and him, as well as the other yers, simply carried out their individual roles in their individual positions. But the picture that had been so hazy earlier was bing so concrete that it was nearly a reality.


    Is this the power of a real leader?


    A shiver went down his spine. The mere presence of an outstanding leader was enough to make him feel like each party member could give 120%. There was no doubt. Sunghyun inferred Hyukjins ability and ss.


    Sovereign ss.


    Not just a regr sovereign-type ss, but an excellent one supported by outstanding talent and sense.


    But


    Would everything truly happen like Hyukjin said? Would everything continue to go well? It was nearly impossible to hunt the Great Orc Warrior with a head-on attack, and Hyukjin himself had said that. Still, they had made it this far. Sunghyun could only trust and move on.


    I will do what I need to do.


    And so, the quest created by the joint bets of the Herdsman of Las Vegas, the Whispering Devil, and even the Courageous Lion King began in earnest, right on Hyukjins palm.


    ____

 Chapter 80: Tomb of the Wind Warrior (4)

    Chapter 80: Tomb of the Wind Warrior (4)


    I stared at the faraway Great Orc Warrior as it tilted its head back in a roar that loudly proimed its position as a predator. Its level appeared as a ? to me.


    Its around level 40.


    Although I couldnt confirm my guess with my physical eyes, I had a very useful skill called Eye of Perception.


    [Monster]


    Name: Great Orc Warrior


    Level: 41


    Race: Orc


    Level 41. The one that showed up this time wielded an enormous axe.


    Thats good.


    It was like Kim Taechuna monster that smashed its enemies with sheer power and possessed a powerful punch.


    The others are doing well.


    All that was left was for me to do my part. Now wasnt the time for me to linger in the back as an observer. I had to move as actively as possible and kill the monster.


    I focused my mind. The opponent was level 41. I was level 30. Actually, it was nearly impossible to solo a monster without a special strategy if you were around 10 levels under it. That was what was widely epted. The Great Orc Warrior wasnt even a monster that had a fatal weakness like the Lycanthrope.


    Last time, we got help from paralyzation poison.


    We had embedded dozens of Mutant Wolf Fangs into the Orcs body, slowing it down so we could hunt it. However, we didnt have that this time. Which meant I had to go toe to toe with the monster on even footing.


    If I mess up and get hit, I could even die.


    If I got unlucky, that was possible. But the situation was different from before.


    Back then, I didnt have the Great Orc Warrior set.


    It was different now. I had the partial set.Partial Set Effect: Defends against a physical attack the wearer cannot handle, limited to once per day. However, the attackers level must not exceed level 30. If their level exceeds 30, a damage reduction effect will be triggered depending on the attacks power.


    It didnt offer perfect defense, but there was definitely a damage reduction effect.


    After all, theyre items used throughout the mid-game as well.


    I was wearing a whopping three pieces of that set.


    I should be able to take at least three hits.


    I never thought that I would be able to kill this behemoth without a scratch. My strategy was to sacrifice the flesh to preserve the bone.


    As long as my vital points arent hit, I wont die in one hit.


    I continued to approach the Great Orc Warrior. The others had fully pulled the aggro of the other Orc, allowing me to draw closer while focusing solely on the Great Orc Warrior.


    But somehow, my movements felt strangely light. It was hard to describe, but I wasnt just imagining it. I could feel the Great Orc Warrior getting closer and closer. It stared at me, seemingly recognizing me as prey.


    This time Ill go for as straight a battle as possible.


    Many Guardians were focusing on this battle. I intentionally chose a frontal battle. Our average levels were in the early 30s at best.


    Ive shown a lot of tricks so far.


    An orthodox hunt of the Great Orc Warrior was sure to kick the Guardians into a frenzy. It might result in me getting hurt a little, but I felt that it was more than doable.


    Here I go.


    <i>Squeaaaaaal!</i>


    Uttering a roar that was more like a scream, the Great Orc Warrior hooked its axe on its shoulder and began to run towards me. It was almost like a massive bison was charging my way.


    <i>Thud! Thud! Thud! Thud!</i>


    Even as it thudded towards me, I was still reading its movements with Observers Eye.[Observers Eye is observing the target.]


    An image was drawn out in vivid detail in my head. This situation was simr to when I was attacked by the Magic Troll in the Tutorial Field and overcame the death sentence of Sixth Sense.


    The feeling from that time


    At that time, Sixth Sense visualized everything I couldnt see with my eyes in my head. If things had gone as Sixth Sense showed me, I would have been struck by the Magic Trolls club and sent flying, my head crushed.


    Just like that time, the situation was automatically drawn out in my head.


    I can see it.


    I could see how this level 40 monster would move.


    I need to rush in on the left side here.


    I saw the path.


    * * *


    Like Hyukjin nned, he quickly moved to the left. He instinctively calcted the distance and speed at which the Great Orc Warrior was running and lured the beast into swinging its axe towards him.


    <i>Whumpf!</i>


    The axe split the air. For the slightest moment, the Great Orc Warrior staggered. It had swung the axe so forcefully that it lost its bnce for a moment.


    Taking advantage of that, Hyukjin swung his sword. He had chosen a frontal fight, so some groundwork was necessary.


    For now, I should provoke its temper a bit.


    <i>Wham!</i>


    It sounded like he was striking leather with a blunt weapon. Hyukjins sword was unable to prate the Great Orc Warriors side, but he hadnt intended on doing so from the start. His goal was to agitate it.


    <i>Squeaaaaaaaaal!</i>


    It only partially worked. An insignificant fly that was merely prey, merely food flitting around, could not irritate it too much. It roared.


    Chwiiik! I will eat! Eat! I will eat!


    While fighting the Orcs, Yeonseo looked at how Hyukjin was doing. She could afford to look because fighting the Mettle-affected Orcs wasnt all that hard. She had full confidence in Hyukjin, but her slight worry was unrted to that.


    Huh?


    However, she saw something a little odd.


    Those movements just now


    Hyukjins movements felt very familiar to her.


    Heavenly Demonic Flying Step?


    The way he was moving bore a resemnce to her movement skill, Heavenly Demonic Flying Step. It wasnt 100% the same, but simr enough that she had to wonder if Hyukjin was perhaps learning Heavenly Demonic Flying Step as well.


    No, its not Heavenly Demonic Flying Step.


    It was strangely different from her skill, almost like he was using a version of the skill with more muscle strength and power. Heavenly Demonic Flying Step was fundamentally called a movement skill. It was different from a foot technique. The way Yeonseo understood movement skills was that they were abilities that allowed one to move quickly or move in ces that only allowed very difficult footing.


    Yeonseo thrust her sword.


    Haah!


    She pierced the Orc precisely in the back of its neck. As she did so, she could feel it.


    I feel like thats how it would look if you took Heavenly Demonic Flying Step and turned it into a foot technique.


    It urred to her that if you took Heavenly Demonic Flying Step, a movement skill that focused primarily on movement, and used it like a foot technique that had a focus onbat, you would get something like that.


    Yeonseos interpretation was close to the truth. Hyukjin didnt realize it himself, but he was instinctively replicating the movements he saw from Yeonseo through Observers Eye. No one taught him, and he didnt even do it intentionally. His body simply moved like that automatically.


    The Great Orc Warrior screamed.


    SQUEAAAAL!


    It tried to somehow remove the Steel Spike lodged in its mouth, but was unable to do so. The piece of steel waspletely buried in the roof of its mouth and jaw. The weakness of the Great Orc Warrior, the mouth, was open.


    The enraged Great Orc Warrior used its innate ability.[The Great Orc Warriors innate ability, Orc Fear, has been triggered.]


    The Orc Fear crashed down on Hyukjin.[Mettle resists the Orc Fear.]


    He couldntpletely shake off the fears influence. He could feel his movements being duller than before.


    My shoulders gonna get smashed here.


    As Hyukjin rushed in, the Great Orc Warrior powerfully swung its axe from top to bottom. Hyukjin clenched his teeth. He had overdone it a little to put the Steel Spike into the Great Orc Warriors mouth, predicting that he would take a hit as a result.


    I just need to avoid getting hit in the vital spots.


    By moving forward, he avoided the axes de, allowing the axes hilt to strike his shoulder instead of the de. It was like taking a blow from a club.


    <i>Bam!</i>


    A loud impact rang out.


    [The Great Orc Warriors partial set effect is activating.]


    [Reducing damage.]


    He was wearing the Great Orc Warrior items and neutralized a lot of the damage with the partial set effect, but the impact was still massive.


    Agh!


    A pained groan spilled from Hyukjins mouth. Thanks to the Great Orc Warriors partial set effect, his shoulder barely escaped being destroyed.


    The attack wont end with this.


    Right now, he was close enough that the monsters fists could reach him. It would instinctively throw a fist at Hyukjin. Observers Eye drew out the situation. The fist woulde for his temple.


    I cant dodge.


    This was all an investment he made to be able to insert the Steel Spike.


    After taking this Ill take one more.


    He wasnt in the position to use sh Step, nor did he have the time. Like an MMA fighter raising their guard, he brought up his arms to protect his temples, clenching his teeth and preparing for impact.


    Wait.


    He thought that defense was his only avenue, but he glimpsed another way. In that fleeting moment, a brief moment that shed past, he made a decision.


    Its belly!


    Hyukjin kicked the Great Orc Warriors belly. It wasnt in order to do damage to the Great Orc Warrior, but to push himself away.


    <i>Whumpf!</i>


    The Great Orc Warriors fist whooshed through the air.


    I dodged it.


    He felt the fist graze past him, like a massive boulder flew past his nose.


    If that had hit me


    Even with his guard up, that fist would have dealt quite a lot of damage. Hyukjin flipped into a backwards roll, hitting the ground. Rolling on the ground looked less than graceful, but it was much better than getting hit by the Great Orc Warriors fist.


    Hyukjin picked up a very strange feeling.


    This feeling What is it?


    Up until thest moment, there was definitely no path. The only choice was to block. But then, a path naturally opened up, like his instincts reacted as soon as the moment was upon him. However, he wasnt able to focus on that sensation for long.


    I can see it again.


    In its excitement, the Orc swung wide and hadnt yet found its bnce.


    The Orcs mouth.


    It was wide open.


    Right now


    Could he use sh Step? If he wasnt able to deal a fatal blow, he would suffer a counterattack right after. But there wasnt time to ponder. The opening in the Great Orc Warriors defense wouldntst long. He didnt miss this brief moment or the tiny opening it afforded. There was no such thing as a perfectly safe attack, especially when the opponent was stronger than him.


    When fighting a strong opponent, a little gambling was necessary.[Using the special skill sh Step.]


    He moved along a straight line that represented the shortest distance between one point to the next, instantly closing the gap. He saw the Great Orc Warriors red, gaping mouth like he was looking at it through a telescope.


    Using the extra speed from sh Step


    As one might expect, if this speed could be harnessed, it would lend incredible destructive force. If he could strike the Orcs weak point with this speed plus his own weight and strength, he would be able to deal a great deal of damage. He saw the Orcs mouth as a point.


    Pierce that point.


    Hyukjin wasnt conscious of the fact that he was physically embodying the Single Hit Finisher he saw from Yeonseo before. The Observer ss Kim Hyukjin reproduced the skill used by the Swordsman ss Yeonseo. Even though their sses were different, his body was showing a new stage.


    <i>Schwiiing!</i>


    With the whistle of steel


    <i>Spluuuurt!</i>


    Hyukjins sword prated the Great Orc Warriors mouth, sticking out the back of the Orcs neck.


    SQUEAAAAL!


    The Great Orc Warrior ulted a strangled cry, windmilling its arms at random from the unbearable pain.


    <i>Bam!</i>


    Hyukjin was struck by one of its iling fists. Pain assaulted his wrist. He didnt get hit at a vital spot, and it wasnt a strike with real force behind it. It was literally just a graze, but he still took a lot of damage.


    I think my wrist is fractured.


    Like before, he kicked off the Great Orc Warrior to widen the distance, then looked briefly around.


    Everyone is finished.


    Everyonepleted their individual roles in their individual positions. They were indeed the heroes of the future. If just one person was missing, this raid would have been nearly impossible.


    Between choppy,bored breaths, Hyukjin said, Myst order. Remember it?


    As soon as they heard his words, the waiting Sunghyun and Sung-gu moved. As Hyukjin recovered his breathing, he looked towards Senia, who was as expressionless as ever.


    I said I would set this stage, Senia.


    They werent empty words. It wasnt possible to sway the Guardians with the likes of lies or deception. If you said you would show them, you had to show them.


    Since I told them I would show them a straight fight, I need to do that.


    What he had already shown them was certainly a more-than-decent spectacle, considering a level 30 yer had the clear edge over a Great Orc Warrior a good 10 levels higher.


    However, Hyukjin wasnt satisfied with that.


    This is the climax.


    The quest bet on by the Herdsman of Las Vegas, the Courageous Lion King, and the Whispering Devil hurtled on to its climax, towards the climax Hyukjin directed.

 Chapter 81: Tomb of the Wind Warrior (5)

    Chapter 81: Tomb of the Wind Warrior (5)


    The Great Orc Warrior iling in pain would be greatly enraged that I, a human that was surely prey, could injure it to such a degree. Through Eye of Perception, I could feel it. A predators rage.


    And I could tell.


    That rage is directed solely at me.


    Its zing eyes were ring at me over the distance I had put between us. But because of the pain, it wasnt able to do anything other than stare.


    So it will choose


    The Great Orc Warrior was an extremely strong monster. It also possessed considerable prowess in throwing its weapon. The throw would have very high uracy in addition to great destructive force.


    ...to throw the axe at me.


    And with a great deal of strength. In order to tear me, and me alone, to pieces, it would use every ounce of its strength. Because those crimson red eyes saw nothing other than me.


    Its moving.


    The Great Orc Warrior was definitely stronger than me. If I took a direct hit, a single blow might kill me. But that wasnt relevant until it happened.


    Id be a fool to get hit even though I know itsing.


    I knew the attack wasing, and had even clearly perceived the speed and trajectory of that attack. Of course I wouldnt sit around to get hit by it. I had long since mentally prepared myself to dodge.


    I looked carefully, focusing. The moment it hurled its axe, it would reveal an opening.


    Sure enough


    SQUEAAAAL!


    The Great Orc Warrior gave a guttural scream as it threw its axe at me.


    <i>Whumpf whumpf!</i>


    The axe rotated fiercely in the air as it hurtled my way, so fast that it was no exaggeration to say it truly hurtled.


    From the very sound it made in the air, I could feel it.


    Massive destructive force.


    The attack was filled with insane power and was so fast it would have been difficult to dodge had I not predicted it in advance.


    But unfortunately for the Orc, both Sunhwa and I had expected it. Sunhwa was standing right next to me to prepare for potential danger, but even our little tank couldnt take that axe straight on. In a situation as dangerous as this, what she could do was limited to slightly changing its trajectory.


    That is Sunhwas role.


    Asmendable as it was, Sunhwa was well aware of her own role and was prepared to do her job.


    I turned slightly aside and dodged the axe.


    <i>Bam!</i>


    The axe buried itself into the ground. Having failed tond the hit, the Great Orc Warrior shrieked in even greater agitation.


    And then, I spoke.


    Now.


    Now was our chance, while the Great Orc Warriors mind was solely concentrated on me.


    The really scary attack is the one you dont know about.


    Even if the attacks were the same, getting hit by one you knew about was different from one that blindsided you. Right now, right here, Sung-gu and Sunghyuns attack could be called an unexpected attack to the Great Orc Warrior.


    Im sure theyve practiced well for this.


    I made them practice matching their breathing, and it was all for this moment. From their lips came a uniquenguage I couldnt understand, an incantation.


    <i>[Phemo Haritanaya]</i>


    <i>[Wedow Levica-ta]</i>


    A me flickered to life in Sung-gus palm, then became fierce mes that formed a whip. It was an ability that Sung-gu had used a lot in the past as well.


    me Whip.


    The me Whip he was showing now was patheticpared to when he was a hero of Korea, but for the beginner period, it couldnt be any more magnificent. The next moment, that me Whip was covered by blue wind.


    Theyre doing well.


    Even though they were coordinating today for the first time, they were performing much better than I expected. The me Whip flew taut and straight at the Great Orc Warrior like an open-mouthed snake.


    Sunghyun is providing good support.


    If Sung-gu was handling the destructive force, then Sunghyun was fueling the mes and handling the precision. The two of them were covering each others inadequacies.


    This is probably the first magic fusion shown since the Cataclysm.


    These two certain geniuses were managing their first magic fusion quite well.


    I knew they would do well.


    After all, the two of them were a famousbo to begin with. Even though they usually looked like two archenemies itching to have at it, as soon as they went into a raid, they showed off a partnership that was as harmonious as peanut butter and jelly. The way their personalities and sses matched up was unequaled.


    The me Whip wrapped in wind went straight into the Orcs mouth. Yoohyun balled his fist, yelling a triumphant Nice!


    The mes zed within the Great Orc Warriors mouth. Sweat poured from Sung-gus forehead.


    This goddamn bastard. Its resilient as all hell. He was using up all his mana to continue feeding the mes. Die, you goddamn bastard!


    This was the climax I directedthe Great Orc Warrior zing like a torch.


    And the Iron Sword I put in there earlier


    The Iron Sword prating its mouth would be molten iron that would melt the Great Orc Warrior from the inside, running down its esophagus to turn all of its insides to mush.


    SQUEAAAAAL!


    The Great Orc Warrior flopped onto the ground. This y wasing topletion.


    Yeonseo, Yoohyun.


    Yeonseo and Yoohyun, our closebat fighters, stepped up. Yeonseo used her movement skill Heavenly Demonic Flying Step to approach first. So that they could coordinate, she told Yoohyun what technique she would be using and where.


    Single Hit Finisher. Back of head.


    More precisely, the hole Id left in the back of the Great Orc Warriors head. Yoohyun followed, barking out the name of his finisher. It wasnt really necessary, but he still said the skill name out loud. It was probably a habit hed gained from coordinating with Yeonseo.


    Hammer Fist!


    Yoohyun followed up Yeonseos Single Hit Finisher with his Hammer Fist on the back of the copsed and frothing-at-the-mouth Great Orc Warriors head.


    <i>Boom!</i>


    The sound that shook the air was almost like an explosion, though it of course fell far short of the fist I remembered from the Fist King So Yoohyun.


    [Great Orc Warrior has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [52 Coins acquired.]


    Perfect.


    It didnt count as a direct hunt. I did deal some damage and directed the hunt like a sovereign, but it was still calcted as me doing less than 50% damage.


    I think the Coins were given to me, the party leader.


    I just had to distribute themter. The Observer ss seemed better than I first thought. If controlled well, I wouldnt need to worry too much about losing EXP.[Hunt all the Orc species monsters! has been cleared.]


    * * *


    In addition to what the Herdsman of Las Vegas proposed, we cleared the gamble-of-a-quest issued by the Whispering Devil and Courageous Lion King. A gamble wasnt a gamble for nothing. It was high risk, high return.


    [The first proposal of the Herdsman of Las Vegas is still valid.]


    [Distributing rewards to all yers who participated.]


    [The rewards being currently distributed are from clearing Secret Within the Tomb of the Wind Warrior.]


    The rewards distribution proceeded in order. Right now, I couldnt even feel the throbbing from my broken wrist. The rewards were just that sweet.


    The rewards this time


    No rewards Id gotten before could evenpare. A stream of rewards as massive as what Michelle must have gotten in the past came in, dazzling my eyes.


    [100,000 Coins acquired.]


    [Great Orc Warriors Gloves acquired.]


    [U-Plex Dungeon First Entry Rights acquired.]


    Those were the rewards from the quest proposed by the Herdsman of Las Vegas.


    [Calcting an additional reward.]


    [50,000 Coins acquired.]


    It didnt feel like a lot because I had just gotten 100,000 Coins, but frankly, 50,000 Coins alone was a massive amount. We got a measly 50 Coins from hunting the Great Orc Warrior. Considering that, I had just gotten a huge pile of Coins.


    Is it over?


    It wasnt.[Receiving a secret reward.]


    Hm?


    Secret reward?


    This must be the reward from the quest proposed by the Whispering Devil or Courageous Lion King. Of the two of them, the Whispering Devil was more likely to hatch such a scheme.[High Orc Spell Scroll acquired.]


    Apparently, only I got this reward. The others didnt seem to know about it.


    The Whispering Devil gave this to me, huh.


    I could clearly see what the Whispering Devil was thinking. He was definitely an interesting bastard. By sending me this, it meant the Whispering Devil had, like me, already predicted what exactly would happen.


    This is gonna be fun.


    Our resident Two-Faced Swords(wo)man, Shin Yeonseo, became a lively young woman in her early 20s after sheathing her sword. She jumped with joy, her face as red as an apple, showing that she was extremely pleased with what she got.


    Wo! I got an Agility Potion!


    Yoohyun got a Strength Potion, while Sunghyun and Sung-gu each got Elemental Affinity Potions. Everyone seemed to have gotten an item that suited them. As long as you could sessfully win a gamble, it would indeed yield plentiful rewards.


    Dayum. Hey, you saw that, right? I was super strong, no? Jo Sunghyun, you were just like a pedestal for my greatness, you hear? I did it all, you just assisted! Uhahah!


    ...


    Sung-gu was busy putting on airs in front of Sunghyun.


    Shabam, shabam! You saw it, right? My me Whip was super awesome. You admit it, right? Yeah, of course you do. Admit it again? Right, gotcha. Wooow. I must be really fuckin strong. Right?


    ...Ah, yes. Youre very strong, said Sunghyun in a t voice.


    Everyone was excited from killing the Great Orc Warrior. Sunghyun wasparatively chill, and his eyes were saying, Okay, you bark all you want. Im gonna check my rewards, which made me feel like I was almost looking at the future Sunghyun and Sung-gu.


    So they were like this from their beginner days, too.


    The young Sunghyun just answered, Ah, yes, butter, he would bicker and quarrel with Sung-gu. But well, they could afford to enjoy this leisure right now.


    As she watched Sung-gu puff out his chest, Sunhwa muttered, looking somewhat displeased, It was all thanks to my oppa, okay?


    Summary: Slight Brocon


    TN: Changed Sunhwa''s summary from brotherplex to brocon, since ''brotherplex'' is the state and ''brocon'' is the person with theplex.


    Oppa did it all, okay?


    I decided to ignore her summary. I acted like I didnt hear her. Maybe she was acting like this because of puberty. Thankfully, the others didnt hear her because she spoke so quietly.


    Once the rewards calction was finished, Guardian notices came in.[The Nameless Observer continues to observe.]


    Like always, the Nameless Observer continued their endless observation. Guardians like the Lady of the Scales, True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain, or Giant of the Sunset didnt send me messages, most likely because they were focusing on their favorites.[The Herdsman of Las Vegas is happy.]


    The host of this quest, the Herdsman of Las Vegas, also enjoyed the amusement. Up to this point, I heard two notices. Notices from the others aside, I was waiting for a notice from a certain someone.


    Youre gonna send a notice too.


    The Whispering Devil sent me a High Orcs Spell Scroll. That meant hed already seen something brewing among the Guardians. He went out of his way to send me this as a secret reward.


    When are you gonna send it?


    I waited patiently. He would definitely send me a notice, most likely before this sh gate waspletely cleared and we were sent outside.


    I spoke up.


    I think weve eliminated all the dangerous elements, but we need to look around. The condition topletely clear this ce was to find the Secret Within the Tomb of the Wind Warrior.


    It wouldnt be hard. Eye of Perception didnt pick up anything dangerous, either. There was probably a Clear Crystal somewhere inside the tomb.


    So that meant wed cleared this ce without a hitch. Everyone understood my words and moved towards the tombs.


    Yes!


    Yep!


    Okay!


    Understood!


    Got it, hyung.


    And then, I heard some notices.


    Ive been waiting.


    They were the notices I had predicted.

 Chapter 82: Tomb of the Wind Warrior (6)

    Chapter 82: Tomb of the Wind Warrior (6)


    [The Ruler of the ins burns with hostility towards you.]


    [The Ruler of the ins detests you.]


    [The Ruler of the ins has reached the limit of their patience.]


    In the past, when I hunted the Thin Hobgoblin, the Ruler of the ins sent me a message saying that he disliked me.


    I cant be respected and chosen by every Guardian.


    I was producing content that would suit the tastes of the majority of Guardians, but I was well aware that I couldnt cater to the small portion of Guardians who had unique tastes.


    They must have been focusing on me ever since I killed the Thin Hobgoblin.


    The Ruler of the ins could be considered a Guardian who had a greater fondness for monsters than for yers. There was an extremely famous incident in the past where the Ruler of the ins caused trouble to Yoohyun.


    Ill discard the Ruler of the ins here.


    The Whispering Devil already knew that the Ruler of the ins would direct their gaze of hatred towards me. That was why he sent me the High Orcs Spell Scroll as a secret reward. I saw in my minds eye how things would y out.


    The Whispering Devil, the Ruler of the ins, and me. What kind of scenario would ur with all three of us involved in one ce?


    Thatll be fun.


    I wasnt scared. Within five years, the Ruler of the ins would disappear. I didnt know what kind of mechanism was behind the appearance and disappearance of Guardians, but it was known that no yers had heard notices from the Ruler of the ins in five years time.


    Alright,e at me, then.


    Right now, they wouldnt be able to try anything to get revenge. I made a legal y. It was just that the Ruler of the ins didnt like that y.


    They wont be able to do anything right now, at least because the other Guardians might notice.


    But one day, they would move against me. For sure.


    Aiming for my weakness.


    A sudden attack was scary, but one I already knew about wasnt. It could be blocked. Just then, Sunhwa shouted.


    Oppa!


    Holding something in her right hand, Sunhwa smiled brightly.


    I found it!


    A crystal glowing with a purple light was in her hand.


    Shes smiling really brightly.


    It wasnt just my rose-tinted sses as her brother kicking init really was a 1000k watt smile, and it wasnt just her trying to look pretty or cute.State: Full of Enthusiasm / Addicted to Fried Chicken / Excited / Happy


    I felt Sunhwas true feelings through Eye of Perception. She was extremely happy and thrilled that she found the crystal, though that addicted to fried chicken part in the middle was a little funny.


    Sunhwa called out from afar, I found it! I did well, right?


    She was covered in dirt from head to toe, like she seriously gave it her all. Even her face was smudged with something that looked like mud.


    Sung-gu said jokingly, Damn, I was trying to find it, but I lost to a frickin middle schooler. How humiliating.


    It wasnt a normal crystal. It wasnt a crystal that would clear the gate when destroyed, but an information crystal that held some kind of info.


    [Crystal Holding the Secret Within the Tomb of the Wind Warrior]


    There is a special secret hidden within this crystal. When destroyed, you will acquire information rted to the course of the Wind Warriors life.


    Yoohyun got the crystal from Sunhwa.


    Ill destroy it, hyungnim!


    When it was in Sunhwas palm, it looked pretty big, but the crystal looked like a kids toy in Yoohyuns massive hand.


    Here I go!


    Yoohyun started exerting his muscles. The veins in his right arm stood out. As his blood vessels expanded, Yoohyuns face turned beet red.


    Haah haah! Breathing hard, Yoohyun turned to me. Hyungnim, this thing isnt budging at all?


    I came closer to inspect the crystal.


    Hm, I hummed, thinking. Apparently, it wasnt a crystal you could just break. Pure physical force wouldnt do it.


    Sunghyun, you give it a try.


    ...Alright.


    The teen nodded. He hadnt spoken up, but it seemed like he had already picked up some kind of hint. As he put the crystal in his palm while we all watched to see what he would do, I could tell one thing.


    His movements are super natural.


    He acted almost like a person who knew exactly what he had to do to this crystal. It wasnt like he had knowledge from the future or anything. This was just his talent ying a role.


    Knowing what to do simply by looking


    It was like a mechanic who automatically knew how to work a machine even without a manual, like being able to y a game without reading the instructions. As soon as Sunghyun saw the crystal, he figured out what he had to do.[Observing with Observers Eye.]


    I saw mana swirling within Sunghyuns body.


    Its fascinating to see every time.


    It felt very different from seeing with my physical eyes. I couldnt quite put it in words, but an energy shining with blue light went through Sunghyuns heart and out his palm and back in, over and over again. The energy seemed to be aliveit moved almost like it had its own will.


    I guess this is how the mana moves when we use skills.


    I could only observe the tip of the iceberg right now. After all, my Observers Eye proficiency was only 1 at the moment.


    The more my proficiency increases, the more I should be able to observe.


    I already couldnt wait for that moment. I didnt know how long it would take, but in any case, I was full of anticipation for the future. My life was already miles apart from the past, when I lived without a future, without hope, just trudging on with my eyes fixed on the present. I could seed now. I could forge my own future. Thats what I believed.


    The mana inside the Clear Crystal is being transferred to Sunghyuns body.


    It was only possible to trace the flow with Observers Eye. An energy resembling purple smoke went into Sunghyuns palm and was absorbed into his body.


    He probably got some quest or something.


    I guessed he got something rted to the Secret of the Wind Warrior, but I didnt pry. There was no pressing need to find out right now.


    [The Clear Crystal has been destroyed.]


    [The sh Gate Tomb of the Wind Warrior has been cleared.]


    The gate itself was cleared, but we didnt get any additional rewards.


    [The rewards that can be obtained within the Tomb of the Wind Warrior have already reached their maximum limit.]


    [The reward for clearing the sh Gate will not be given.]


    I wasnt too sorry to hear that. Id already received a way bigger harvest than I had expected.


    150k Coins total, High Orc Spell Scroll, U-Plex Dungeon First Entry Rights, and Great Orc Warriors Gloves.


    They were all fantastic. But there was a prize better than all others.


    Ive fully determined how the Observer ss will grow.


    I had the pros and cons of the Observer ss nearly down pat, and figured out what the Nameless Observer wanted from me a little more concretely. That gave me a direction for my future ying.


    Thats the biggest gain.


    And plus,


    Ive also acquired Sunghyuns full trust.


    We earned a great party member. Though there were strong indications that he wouldnt get along with Sung-gu, when these two worked together, their power would be equal to ten magicians put together.


    [Teleporting from the sh Gate Tomb of the Wind Warrior to the sh Gate Hill of Blowing Wind.]


    [The key, the Final Wind, is necessary.]


    A hologram appeared before our eyes.[ _ _ _ _ _ _ ]


    And underneath it appeared a keyboard of arrows.[Apparently, we were supposed to type in the correctbination.


    Boss Hyukjin. What is this? Ive got no clue.


    [If you cannot find the key, one of the yers will die.]


    [You have 1 minute.]


    Everyones expressions darkened. My heart became heavy as well.


    This is


    I had a feeling. But I couldnt be 100% sure.[Remaining time: 40 seconds]


    I spoke quickly. I think I know what this is.


    35 seconds left.


    But I cant be 100% sure. I remember the wind shape that blowed when we left the Hill of Blowing Wind. The arrows match the number of nk spaces.


    25 seconds left.


    If you guys agree, Ill try putting it in.


    15 seconds left. There wasnt much time, and I was the only one who had a clue.


    Okay, Im in full agreement.


    Oppa, me too.


    Dammit, me too.


    I agree.


    5 seconds left.


    The wind that blew when I blew out the candle.


    I remembered a refreshing wind blowing then as if to celebrate the clear we had just achieved.[]


    That image was vivid in my brain. I hadnt particrly tried to remember the arrows, but I could recall them in such rity that I wondered if my memory had always been this good.


    I put them in exactly as I remembered them.


    []


    [You have sessfully found the key.]


    [Teleporting to the Hill of Blowing Wind.]


    [The flow of time has been distorted.]


    [Entering the Hill of Blowing Wind.]


    We came back.


    * * *


    The flow of time was distorted.


    That had to mean that while we were clearing the Tomb of the Wind Warrior, the time within the Hill of Blowing Wind was frozen. When we found ourselves back on the hill, the other yers didnt realize our absence at all.


    So this moment is when I discovered the candle on Sunghyuns back.


    I heard a voice.


    What nonsense are you tryna say?


    It was the voice of the Brown Bear Kim Taechun. He was ring at me. Hed seen me on the 1st Floor and had apparently pegged me as prey, since he was a self-proimed predator.


    I retorted back, What?


    Scowling to show his displeasure at my casual tone, Taechun rolled his right shoulder, producing cracking noises.


    Thats weird. I thought there was something on the kids back. Anyway, I dare you to try something weird. Ill cut off your head.


    Yoohyun stepped forward. Oi. You sure have a lot of crap to say.


    ...


    You asking for another beating?


    Taechun tucked his tail between his legs, muttering, Its not like I messed with you, jeez.


    Mumbling to himself was all the resistance he could muster.


    Tsk tsk.


    He was still a famous yer in his own right, so it was a little pathetic to see him so cowed by a single beating. If he acted like this, he would also lose the Courageous Lion Kings backing.


    Guess hell disappear before long.


    He would either die within a dungeon or gate, or be killed by some yer. In any case, it was unlikely he would leave his name in historys annals.


    Originally, Kim Taechun never got beaten by Yoohyun or Yeonseo.


    Once again, the past changed a little because of my ying. However, I didnt regret it. I did what I should, and thanks to that, many yers survived.


    [The sh Gate Hill of Blowing Wind has been cleared.]


    [Leaving the gate.]


    I had earned so much from this ce. It was no exaggeration to say I was walking a path paved with gold, one that couldnt evenpare to the past. My mood soared.


    Someone shouted, Were back!


    At least in this moment, everyone was a friend and an ally. A few people even embraced each other and ran around in joy. Yoohyun and Sung-gu stood next to me.


    Hyungnim. Shouldnt we be acting like that, too?


    Damn, yeah. We should also hug it out and cheer, let our bromance shine The words died in Sung-gus throat. He and Yoohyun took a cautious step back.


    Wait, hyungnim. I wasnt saying Id really hug you.


    Goddamn, so scary. You could destroy the world with that gaze.


    Yeonseo snickered. Iyaa, anyway, we got a safe clear again. And the rewards are also uh-may-zing. Like I thought, its most fun to y with the boss. Right, Sunhwa?


    Sunhwa nodded. Its super reassuring when oppa is there. And it also feels super efficient.


    Yeah, your oppa is the best.


    I just feigned deafness. Jo Sunghyun was looking around in silence.


    Im sure he got something rted to the Clear Crystal earlier. Hes probably thinking about whether he should share that or not.


    Without Observers Eye, I wouldnt have known, either.


    With his personality it will take a little time.


    He was calm and cool-headed. He would take his time thinking about it subjectively. And if he decided in the end that I was worthy of his trust, he woulde and consult me for advice.


    Theres a very high chance hell do that.


    Personally, I thought there was a 99% chance he woulde to me.


    Lets give him a little time.

 Chapter 83: Laying Bear Bait

    Chapter 83: Laying Bear Bait


    We made it back to the hall of the 12th floor that immediately ported us to the first gate, the Hill of Blowing Wind. The hall had several entrances and exits, and on the far side of the room, I saw members from the guild that wouldter stand tall as Koreas top guild, Taeguk Shield. They had intentionallye inte.


    The reason why theyvee in only now In the past, I didnt think anything of it, but now, I knew better. Is because they have the Precognitive Dream user Ham Sohyun.


    I didnt know the range of her Precognitive Dream ability, but there was a high chance that she predicted some kind of danger here, which caused Sungshins gship Taeguk Shield toeter.


    Or its because they wanted to make ate arrival, like protagonists.


    Either way, I could now see the Taeguk Shield guildies that hadnt been present during the clear of the Hill of Blowing Wind. Among them was Song Jinchuls oldest brother, Song Kiyeol. He was the guildmaster of Taeguk Shield.


    TN: Author has changed the name of Sungshins eldest grandson from Song Jinseok to Song Kiyeol.


    I guess hed be in his early 30s now.


    The guildmaster shared the same nickname as the guildTaeguk Shield. He became well-known as a fairly outstanding tank. In addition to him, there was the Poison Witch Cheon Sooji, the Golden Priest Gong Jinhoon, and the Spear Demon Byeon Gilsup


    Wow. Lots of bigshots here.


    They finally showed up. They were the people I would be drawing out the future with. Soon, they would make my worth skyrocket. They were supporting actors in my scenario, so to speak.


    As I mused, many yers celebrated.


    W-Were back!


    I survived!


    As they relished in the joy of being alive, some started talking about the clear rewards again, while others cried, their expressions dark. While everyone was still ted from their safe return, someone approached me.


    Mr. Kim Hyukjin. I am relieved to see you are safe.


    It was a group of four men.


    Whats this now? I thought with amusement. Two of the four men were familiar faces. The person standing at the very front was Kim Kangchul, who I had been acquainted with in my previous life as well, and the other was Song Jinchul.


    [Unawakened]


    Name: Song Jinchul


    Age: 14


    State: Disdain / Slight Rage / Jealousy


    Disposition: Arrogant / Destructive / Selfish


    Summary:<ol><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Self-Proimed Chosen One</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Self-Judged Expert of Negotiation and Threat</li></ol><ul><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Is unawakened.</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">The disposition/state/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    I was still getting Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible, but I was still able to read more information than before. I could now see two summaries.


    I only saw Self-Proimed Chosen One in the past. This time, there was another summary under it. Self-Judged Expert of Negotiation and Threat?


    Jinchul moved to the front to tantly look me up and down. Being in his first year of middle school, he was short, small, and had a reedy voice, yet he acted like he was on top of the world. Apparently, the task of talking to me had been entrusted to Jinchul.


    He pointed at me, someone much older than him, with his chin.


    Youre Kim Hyukjin?


    ...


    I stared back at the youngest grandson of the Sungshin chaebol. Our first meeting had been rather unpleasant as well.


    Who are you to make Grandpa so interested in you?


    Was this the jealousy of a grandson who was robbed of his grandpas attention? Ah, that exined his state.State: Disdain / Slight Rage / Jealousy


    I found him more cute than anger-inducing. He was clearly jealous, but still trying to look down on me.


    The reason why President Song sent such a kid to me I immediately read his intent. Is because hes curious as to how Ill handle him.


    There was a really high chance he was testing me. He wanted to see if I was truly someone with the skills to back my refusal of the Taeguk Shield guildmaster position.


    If hes really that curious, Ill show him.


    For the time being, dancing to the Presidents tune wasnt that bad an option. That would increase my value and worth.


    Hell probably be very shocked.


    Even I was shocked by myself.


    My party members. Taeguk Shield guild members. Kim Taechun. The youngest grandson, Song Jinchul.


    Using these keywords, I drafted apletely new picture, one where I would work with my party members and use all of the above elements to maximize our value.


    Yeah. Im Kim Hyukjin, what about it?


    Mister. Did you just speak down to me?


    Yeah, I did.


    Are you crazy? Do you not know who I am?


    Nope, I dont.


    The no-good chaebol scion quickly red to anger, spitting out with agitation, If you dont know who I am, then you have to be taught. Oi, make that bastard kneel before me.


    Being this disillusioned at his age was called chuunibyou syndrome.


    What are you doing? I said grab that trash and make him kneel before me! Didnt you hear me?!


    The members of Taeguk Shield nced our way.


    To start things off, this brat was due for a friendly little beatdown.[Using the special ability Mettle.]


    My Mettle had crushed Orcs that could tear apart Song Jinchul and the other four men here with one hand. This ability was a rank higher than the one possessed by Jinchuls grandfather, the 1st President of Sungshin, Song Kiyoung.


    Mettle instantly crushed the group of four.


    Huh?


    Jinchul became deathly white. Kim Kangchul in front of him was the same. It was my first time using the ability on people, but it was apparently extremely effective.


    I patted Jinchuls shoulder. Have some manners, kid. A persons at their coolest when they talk to others with respect.


    I then walked past the frightened Jinchul. As Sunhwa trailed behind me, she stuck out her tongue and blew a quiet raspberry, but I just let it slide. Being slighted by a little girl hed never seen before might actually be even more humiliating to Jinchul.


    Knowing that it would take the kid some time to shake off the effects of Mettle, I walked to one of the halls exits. I could feel with Eye of Perception that quite a few people had been gathered here to control the yers within.


    They purposefully went for a heavy-handed atmosphere.


    All the yers Association had to do was formally apologize much, muchter.


    To push the yers into submission.


    The yers were still in their early stages of growth. It was clear to me that the yers Association wanted to grab control while they still could. At least in the early game, that wasnt a terrible strategyit would allow the yers Association to quickly take its ce and gain the wholehearted(?) cooperation of the yers.


    Sometimes, force is more effective than democratic or peaceful methods.


    Yoohyun had proven that to me earlier. Sungshin must havee to the same conclusion.


    President Song Kiyoung intentionally crafted this situation.


    I could see his intent like it was written in red paint. It was fun.


    You cannot leave.


    They werent as big as Yoohyun, but intimidatinglyrge people, hired muscle in ck suits, were blocking the door.


    Most of them are Unawakened.


    Seeing that made meugh. Even the oh-so-mighty President Song hadnt even begun to see the true power of yers yet.


    What would have happened if the yers hadnt submitted in the past and rioted?


    Even Kim Taechun over there could have easily wiped out these hired guards if he went wild with his axe. That was how enormous the gap between a yer and an Unawakened was.


    Why not? I asked.


    The yers Association Chairman has instructed it.


    I hummed, then looked around again. Up to this point, it was still the same as the past. Quite a lot of people were milling around on the 12th floor.


    Someone I didnt know picked up a mic and started talking. yers, your attention, please. With the situation the way it is, I will get right to the point.


    What he said was simple. There were a lot of casualties, so the yers Association would use their authority to find out exactly what happened in the gate. To do that, they would seek the cooperation of one person after another to hear what they had to say. They said it was to assemble a database, but the atmosphere in the room was almost one of interrogation.


    The beginner yers have been pretty much cowed.


    It might also be that they were unwillingly surrendering to the authority held by the yers Association. What they did was none of my business. I just had to y my own way.


    Ill leave the big picture for another day.


    I decided not to wrangle with the big picture today. Even if I didnt step in, in a future not too far from now, the yers would realize on their own that there was no need to be so submissive to the yers Association.


    Boss, said Yeonseo, her voice low. The mood here is so frosty Did wemit some kind of crime? It seriously feels like theyre treating us like criminals.


    She was smiling brightly, but I could feel bloodthirst from her. I felt the hired muscle blocking our way flinch.


    Picking his nose, Sung-gu drawled, Just gimme the okay anytime and Ill burn them all to a crisp. You know my online handle, right? Im the Jayandong Firemaster.


    Id leave the big picture for another day, but there was no need to lower my value and the value of my team. I decided to live this life differently. I would forge my own life, and I wasnt going to be unfaithful to that creed here.


    Intentionally speaking up so that the surrounding people could hear me, I said, Youre right. We didnt do anything wrong. Someone purposefully created this heavy-handed atmosphere. Though I wont say who that someone is.


    Finally breaking free from the influence of Mettle, Song Jinchul shouted at me like he was having a fit. What bullshit are you saying?! What youre saying makes zero sense!


    I would show this kidno, President Songwhether I was saying bullshit or not.


    Let me show you how I set the stage.


    That stage would be bigger than he expected.


    * * *


    Just then, Senia sent me a whisper request.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. I have a question.


    Ask away.


    What is the ultimate picture you are drawing? I cannot figure out where you are going with this.


    I wasnt surprised.


    Trying to spoil the Guardians?


    No. It is just that I need to know your intent so I can film a little more properly.


    Very good, Senia was also continuing to grow. I was happy to see it.


    Ill exin it just once, so listen up. If you can, use one Pause authority.


    Senia hesitated, but in the end, she used a Pause. Everyone and everything other than Senia and me became ck and white.


    Ill make it brief. Im going to use that kid Song Jinchul to send President Song Kiyoung a messageto not look down on us, and to properly evaluate our value.


    Is that all?


    No, itd be no fun if that was all.


    I had to design this step by step,yer byyer.


    Listen well. First, Ill provoke Song Jinchul. Afterwards, Kim Taechun will take action, and when that happens, Taeguk Shield will also take action. After that, other Taeguk Shield guild members will move.


    ...


    Its fine if you dont understand the process. Im just talking about the result. I hope youll film ordingly.


    Then is your provocation just now of Song Jinchul bait?


    Yes.


    Senia definitely grew a bit. She evolved from a fucking beginner to just a beginner.


    And then Kim Taechun will move?


    I have to make that happen, yeah.


    Alright, it seemed she was clear on that much.


    But how is Kim Taechun taking action connected to Taeguk Shield taking action? I cannot see any connection. After saying that, Senias wings quivered for a moment. Ah, you cant mean!


    Oho, she must have guessed without me even needing to exin. Like Senia realized, there were other elements involved in this picture, though they couldnt be seen with the naked eye.


    Your prediction is correct. I will make them move.


    Song Jinchul is bait, as is Kim Taechun. I have judged that your true goal is Taeguk Shield.


    Youre quite close.


    It seemed like Senia got the gist of what I was going to do. She had really gotten much smarter.


    Do you n on acquiring Taeguk Shield?


    Yeah, something like that.


    I did omit a few parts of the process. There would be several stages to acquiring the guild. It wasnt something I could swallow in one gulp just because I had a vague desire to do so.


    I understand your intent, but I cannot see the process.


    Thats why Ill show you.


    Senias wings trembled once, very quickly.


    I will use this knowledge to inform my filming. Although I dont know the exact details of the process, I can see where you are going now.


    Shed see soon enough.


    In the end, Taeguk Shield will be mine.


    And through it, I would have a share of Sungshins hefty support. I would get everything there was to get, and this would open the doors to a far more efficient y.


    The first stroke of this grand blueprint would be drawn out now.[The Pause has been deactivated.]


    The world regained its color.

 Chapter 84: Laying Bear Bait (2)

    Chapter 84: Laying Bear Bait (2)


    Mr. Kim Kangchul, I said, trying to remember what his actual title was. Oh, right. It was Team Leader. Team Leader of the yer Scouting Team.


    Yes, Mr. Kim Hyukjin.


    He wasnt affected by Mettle anymore, but I could feel he was more restrained with me.


    Somehow it feels like we are being treated like subordinates.


    Surely not. Thats not the case at all. Kim Kangchul shook his head, his expression earnest. It is just that we wish to acquire slightly more precise information about the gate that just formed, as well as confirm yer casualties. We must know what happened in the gate in detail. That is the duty of the yers Association.


    yers Association was the grand name for what was actually a private subsidiary of Sungshin. In other words, this was all just a corporations profit-seeking.


    For now, I kept up the charade and put it nicely.


    It sounds like you intend on building a database.


    Yes. We will gather all kinds of data and make arge collection of information. In a way that will help mankind.


    It wasnt information that would help mankind, but information that would help Sungshin. But I didnt say that. They were doing what was profitable for them, and I, of course, was doing the same. That wasnt bad. Rather, it was all too natural. It was just that there was no need for me to lower myself for their profit.


    And if I dont want to cooperate?


    You will have no choice but to cooperate.


    He was exuding the same peculiar confidence I had feltst time, too.


    Even though hes a team leader


    It wasnt like his insight was particrly outstanding.


    Summary:<ol><li aria-level="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Ordinary Person Hungry for Sess</li></ol>


    A lot could be inferred from his summary. Ordinary Person being in his summary meant that he was a regr guy with no special traits.


    In ten years, hell be the yers Associations Head of Personnel.


    Making it fairly high up despite having ordinary abilities could only mean one thing. He either hugged the right thigh, or made a good impression on his superior. He was good at climbing the so-called corporatedder.


    Thats why he hasnt recognized the worth of yers and is responding like this.


    Had President Song really not known that Kim Kangchul would act like this?


    No. He must have known.


    I had an inkling that he purposefully sent Team Leader Kim. He picked out a person who could act calmly, without a hint of reserve. That was the Presidents tactic to maintain this farce. He was also bound to be curious as to how I would handle his grandson, a long-time sufferer of chuunibyou.


    You seem to be very confident.


    Because all yers in Korea will be members of the Korean yers Association.


    Is thatw?


    It wasnt. It was just that the yers themselves hadnt realized their own value and were still dazed after the whirlwind of events where several yers died. That was why they were cooperating with Sungshin.


    It will soon bew.


    I had no doubt it would. After all, Sungshin had an enormous sway over the government.


    However.


    As enormous and powerful as Sungshin was, thetent power and worth we yers held was just as big.


    By soon, you mean that it isntw yet. I took a step closer to Kim Kangchul. Im not very happy about this high-handed atmosphere, the feeling of being interrogated. I refuse to cooperate with Sungshin in such a situation. I am not an employee of Sungshin.


    The prey should be taking the bait around now. I could feel Song Jinchuls body trembling with rage.


    And I have absolutely zero desire to kneel to a rude brat like him.


    Considering that he submitted to Mettle earlier, his pride was surely well and properly dented.Summary: Self-Proimed Chosen One Whose Pride is Injured


    Mister. Move.


    My target was never Kim Kangchul. It was always the young rascal named Song Jinchul. Kim Kangchul stepped back.


    Did someone shit in your cereal? Is your head for show? Do you not know who I am?


    Of course I did. A 3rd generation chaebol spoiled brat. I retorted back, Do you know who I am?


    ...


    Just why the hell are you kicking up a fuss when you dont even know who I am?


    Jinchuls eyes filled with astonishment. He was really easy to handle. This chaebol young master had surely never experienced such treatment before. A delusional edgelord just needed to be treated like a delusional edgelord.


    Does being a 3rd generation chaebol kid make you invulnerable to pain?


    Y-Youuuu! Jinchuls body quivered, and then he burst out with a stream of hostility. I am Song Jinchul! The person who will one day be the rightful master of Sungshin!


    After revealing his identity, Song Jinchul puffed out his chest. The powerful name Sungshin filled him with hot air.


    Whats wrong? Scared?


    As if. I gave him an intentional smirk. A middle school student who talks down to a team leader of Sungshin. A young kid with no qualifications who can willfully barge into matters between yers and the Association. A moron with not a single rats tail of respect or manners. Even without Eye of Perception, I would have realized who this brat was. Anyone could tell with their eyes closed that youre most likely a 3rd generation chaebol brat.


    ...


    Song Jinchuls face flushed red hot.State: Very Angry


    All the other emotions had been pushed aside, making it so that Eye of Perception could pick up only rage. The boy was very mad, it seemed.


    Song Jinchul spat out, You. Youre going to regret this.


    Do you want me to make you feel regret right now?


    I took one step closer. The three bodyguards behind Jinchul stepped in front of him, almost like they were his guardian knights. But it was fine; Id never intended onying a hand on the kid anyway.


    Now, hell run off to grandpa and tell him what happened today.


    What President Songs spoiled grandson would tell him would inevitably differ from what Kim Kangchul would tell him. The kid would probably spill the whole story without a filter.


    I looked Song Jinchul dead in the eye. The information we have is essentially new culture. That will soon be the driving force for the future.


    ...


    <i>President Song Kiyoung, please listen up.</i>


    I wont sell my worth for mere peanuts. I smirked again. And especially not to a spoiled brat like you.


    Y-Y-Youuuu!


    No matter how young you might be, its clear that youve got absolutely zero eye for things. Do you think a 3rd generation chaebol kid like you could really inherit thepany? Is your grandpa really so foolish?


    I tantly attacked the premier chaebol of Korea, as well as Song Kiyoung himself. All of my words would no doubt enter the Presidents ears via his grandson. Without a filter.[The Merchant of Venice is greatly satisfied by your attitude and guts.]


    It seemed the Merchant of Venice liked my response, too.


    Considering President Songs personality


    I had already met the President once. He might be slightly incensed that I went after a young kid, but he was definitely not one to mix private and work matters. He would actually end up seeing me in a new light. After all, there werent many people who could talk to Jinchul like this even after knowing he was President Songs grandson. At least, not in Korea.


    Ill show you that this kind of method wont work on me, on us.


    I didnt look kindly to being treated like a criminal dragged to the interrogation room and being made to share each and every thing that happened, rewards and tips included. In this rapidly changing new world, information was essentially money, power, and authority. I couldnt just sit here and let that be taken from me with cattle prods.


    And even if I were to give you information, there should be appropriatepensation.


    I was sending President Song a message loud and clear through his grandson. Instead of using a method like this,e with a more attractive carrot next time. Something a little better than a pathetic 2 million annual sry contract. Something a little more appropriate for our worth.


    If its President Song, hell get what Im saying.


    That was enough for using Jinchul as my mouthpiece.


    * * *


    Alright, Iveid the framework.


    Now, it was time for the slightly bigger picture. There were two reasons why I refused to cooperate with them. The first was that I didnt want to lower our value and asking prices. The second was to make someone witness our quarreling.


    Someone in this room. I glimpsed someone with a bulky physique walking over in a rage. Someone like the Brown Bear Kim Taechun.


    Taechun had already lost to Yeonseo in a 1 vs. 1 and was one-sidedly beaten by Yoohyun, so his pride mustve been sorely bruised. Despite that, his summary was still Self-Proimed Predator. It seemed he was still riding the hero high from destroying the pirs.


    Taechun hasbeled me as prey.


    I had already sensed his gaze stabbing into me. My Eye of Perception continuously picked up a gaze prickly with not-so-friendly intentions. There was no doubt that the Courageous Lion Kings quest was still unfinished.


    The picture was all drawn out.


    You must be desperate to catch the eye of Sungshin, yes?


    If he wanted to do that, hed have to pick a fight with me. He also had decent justification to do so, since I was the only one refusing to cooperate. If he suppressed me, he would look very valiant.


    Ah.


    But he was hesitating and not rushing in. From the look in his eyes and the energy I could feel from him via Eye of Perception, he clearly wanted to dash over and shout, Whyre you the only one acting out, you bluffing piece of shit! But he was holding back.


    Wait, I think its because Yoohyun and Yeonseo are next to me.


    I realized the reason.


    Yoohyun and Yeonseo, go somewhere else. Naturally. Without making it obvious, I said quietly, turning briefly to the two.


    Yoohyun immediately started whistling. There wasnt even music, but he even danced with his shoulders. All of a sudden? Whistling, here? I told him to not make it obvious, but he made it so awkward I nearly withered on the inside. Sung-gu shook his head and followed, muttering, Haah, that idiot.


    I shouldnt make him act.


    It looked, by all ounts, that I shouldnt make Yoohyun act.


    Inparison, Yeonseo slipped away and blended into another group of yers rather naturally. From her noticeably light steps, I suspected she was using her movement skill.


    That left just me, Sunghyun, and Sunhwa.


    Sunghyun is a thorn in his side.


    Sunghyun yed a decisive role in the Hill of Blowing Wind clear. Taechun was sure to be unhappy with him.


    And Sunhwas easy to underestimate.


    As far as Taechun could see, I no longer had anyone to protect me.


    Helle now, right?


    Sure enough, therge man approached. This bear was very good at taking bait.


    Oi. Ive been listening over there. He came right up to me, looming over me with his massive frame. He lived up to his nickname. Youre being a bit harsh there. Do you think all the yers here are stupid? The folks from the Association are saying we should work together to gather data, so whyre you being so difficult? Are you the only one whos too good for this?


    What do you think the folks from the Association will do after gathering the data?


    Well obviously, theyll make things way better forter ying. Cause well have more info.


    Once again, I smirked. Perhaps finding my actions amusing, the Merchant of Venice sent me a gift.[The Merchant of Venice sends you the temporary skill Smiling Provocation.]


    Like the name suggested, it was an ability that would make the opposite party feel terrible as you smiled at them. It wasnt some big awesome skill, andter, it would even be frequently used via scrolls. The ability was something akin to a joke.[Using the temporary skill Smiling Provocation.]


    I smirked, knowing that it would greatly irritate Taechun.


    Do you truly think it will make things better for ying? I shook my head, as if telling him he was wrong. Surely you dont think the yers Association is moving for the good of the public? Since when has Sungshin been a charity?


    At this time, the yers Association would not act for the good of the public. They were 100% a private subsidiary working for Sungshin.


    This is a ce where Sungshin, recognizing the value of new tech, <i>invited </i>yers, the people most closely rted to new tech.


    To say it outright


    Itsughable that theyre already treating us like theirpany employees. Its hard to tell whether theyve invited us or are interrogating us.


    Taechuns face reddened a little.


    We dont have a superior-subordinate rtionship. Raising my voice a little, I said, This is a type of business cooperation, one where our interests must align for us to work together. Do you think that in a business, the other party will give me equal treatment if Im lowering my worth, taking initiative to bow down low, and scrambling to present myself as a ve? Idiot.


    I continued to read his mood with Eye of Perception.


    Thats right. Get mad. Exactly as I want you to.


    Is that block above your shoulders an ornament?


    I never intended on having a logical debate with Kim Taechun. That wasnt his role in the picture I was drawing.


    Shit like you whos all bark and no bite dares! Taechun fumed. I tolerated you because youre a nonbat ss, but theres no second chance for you, you piece of shit.


    Thats right. In my scenario, this is your role. Getting whipped into a frenzy, I sneered inwardly. Up to this point, the scene was progressing as I wished.


    [The Nameless Observer is observing you.]


    [The Courageous Lion King ridicules your articte mouth.]


    [The Whispering Devil is having fun.]


    [The Merchant of Venice has a high evaluation of you.]


    The next part was already set in stone.


    As I thought.


    The situation unfolded exactly as I conceived it.

 Chapter 85: Enlightenment

    Chapter 85: Enlightenment


    I tolerated you because youre a nonbat ss, but theres no second chance for you, you piece of shit.


    So what was he gonna do about it? PVP with a nonbat ss yer?


    Though by future standards, thatspletely out of the question.


    Before I regressed, there were many cases where nonbat sses yed a more active role thanbat sses. Be it detoxification, heals, or buffs, there were fewer nonbat ss yers thanbat yers, and they were rare.


    In addition, the worth of a yer had massive differences depending on their proficiency and type of ability. With that in mind, each of the guilds made tacit rules to preventbat ss yers from persecuting nonbat ss yers.


    Abat yer sending a nonbat yer a PVP request?


    That was ridiculous. If guilds were a little more well-established, Kim Taechun wouldve probably gotten dragged away and beaten by his guildmaster.


    Especially because I was a yer with a ss called Observer and yed a role close to a sovereign.


    Well, its not like he knows.


    Among the nonbat sses, the sses that received the best treatment were the ones in the sovereign category. It was a little embarrassing to say it myself, but there was a reason why Yeonseo constantly praised me, saying that the perceived difficulty was worlds apart when I was there versus when I wasnt. Sovereign sses were literally noble sses. They were hard to raise, hard to pull off, and even harder to be a high-level Ranker with. But once they made it there, they were nobles who stood above all others.


    Notices came in.


    [You have received a PVP request.]


    [If you ept, a PVP Zone will be dered.]


    From this, I inferred one more thing.


    A beginner yer under level 30 sent the PVP request on his own ord.


    In order to send a PVP request, you had to receive the permission of a high-level sovereign yer, or receive the help of an Intermediate Administrator, like what Percy did earlier. Or a Guardian would have to intervene.


    The courage-lover stepped in again.


    It seemed our little courage-lover bestowed Taechun the right to make a PVP request. That was how much he wanted to see this fight between us.


    Im certain Ive already told you many times that Im a nonbat ss.


    So what? Gonna run away like a coward?


    He openly sneered at me. His eyes were full of scorn, as well as the confidence of a predator. The current Kim Taechun was convinced thatbat yers are the true yers.


    No, thats not what I mean. Im just a little worried.


    Dont worry. You wont die, Taechun said, guffawing. This dumb brick waspletely missing my point.


    How will you have the face to walk around after getting beaten up by a nonbat ss?


    <i>Im not worried for myself, but for you.</i>


    * * *


    Senia. Notarize the fact that Im a nonbat ss.


    Senia showed herself, which drew a round of astonished murmurs.


    So beautiful.


    ying must be so amazing if you do it with that kind of Intermediate Administrator


    Both Senia and Hyukjin ignored the trivial mutterings of the crowd. The stage was set, a stage where even an Intermediate Administrator had stepped in.


    Hyukjin continued, This is definitely a proposal made by a yer to another yer, yes?


    An Intermediate Administrator hadnt mediated it. Percy, the Streamer who had spat a ball of highly acidic green saliva, was likely streaming the scene in invisible mode. The fact that Percy hadnt appeared yet despite the situation having developed to this extent meant that an existence ranked higher than Percy was involved. Hyukjin was sure that existence was the Courageous Lion King.


    That was why it was necessary to make things very clear here.


    Yes, that is correct. The results of my check show that yer Kim Taechun personally made a PVP request to yer Kim Hyukjin.


    Then that means this is a matter between humans unrted to System-made scenarios.


    Only then did Senia realize Hyukjins intent.


    A matter between humans.


    Hyukjins sentence precisely defined this fight as a matter unrted to the System.


    [The Lady of the Scales nods.]


    [The Whispering Devil is having fun.]


    [The Nameless Observer observes.]


    They were now, to a certain degree, exempt from the Systems rules.


    yer Kim Hyukjin has made a nominal pretext to not act as an observer.


    It was decided with one sentence. Hyukjin would no longer move like an observer, but like abat ss yer taking on a PVP. He made it seem like he was talking to her, Senia, but his actual intent was clear and defined.


    The Nameless Observer said that they would observe.


    With that, all of Hyukjins bases were covered. There wasnt a single hole in this tightly weaved scenario. Now, Hyukjin had the freedom to y out his own role in the scenario he himself crafted.


    [epting the PVP request.]


    [A PVP Zone has been dered.]


    A space free of death, the PVP zone, was established. Kim Taechun smiled broadly.


    Good.


    He was certain he could wreck Hyukjin. He was humiliated twice earlier, but thankfully, an opportunity to recover his facended in hisp. He had finally grasped a good opportunity for him to prove his courage.


    Here Ie.


    The match began. Taechun took out his massive axe, the weapon that had made him stand out in the Hill of Blowing Wind.


    Hyukjin wasnt all that intimidated by that imposing weapon. He read Taechuns entire body with Observers Eye, seeing everything with his eyes.


    His bnce is passable.


    From the looks of it, Taechun would step with his right foot before approaching.


    Hes underestimating me, so hell make a direct approach.


    He woulde close enough to put Hyukjin inside his range. Observers Eye read every single one of Taechuns movements. It felt distinctly different from when he was observing Yeonseo or Yoohyun.


    Its like watching a video in 0.5 speed.


    When he was reading Yeonseo or Yoohyun, a constant stream of information came in at real time, and he had to quickly derive new analyses. But it was different with Kim Taechun. It looked to Hyukjin that the hulking man was moving slowly to fulfill an already predetermined action.


    This is a new feeling.


    It was true that Taechun was lower level, but reading an average yers movements felt so much easier after reading only top yers all this time. It felt enlightening, somehow.


    I can see it.


    He could see it preciselyTaechuns fight pattern.


    Yeonseo watched the PVP closely.


    Lets focus. Simply watching Hyukjin move will be a big lesson for me.


    She had the feeling that something about Hyukjins movements was odd. While Taechun was moving in, Hyukjin moved one small step to the right, far more slowly than normal.


    He should be able to instantly subdue the opponent if he used sh Step.


    He wasnt using it on purpose, and she understood why.


    It would be idiotic to show off your skills in front of this many people.


    This was different from when he killed the Bigmouth Lizard earlier. There was no need to expose all his abilities. Yeonseo had instinctively realized that showing 70% of ones abilities and hiding the remaining 30% was favorable for a yer.


    <i>Whumpf!</i>


    Therge axe grazed past Hyukjins forehead. Taechun swung his axe in quick session.


    <i>Whumpf!</i>


    <i>Whumpf!</i>


    He attacked Hyukjin, his axe creating loud noises as it swung by, looking extremely threatening.


    Kuhahahaha!


    Taechun felt a rush of exhration and triumph. His opponent was busy scrambling to dodge. He knew as well as anyone that his attack speed wasnt very fast. But the fact that he could attack to his hearts content like this meant that his opponent was just that slow.


    Just how long are you gonna keep running away?


    <i>Whumpf!</i>


    He kept swinging his axe. After making an opening, he would crush Hyukjins head with a single downward swing. He was sure of his victory.


    This guy has a big mouth, but it looks like hell be one hit KOd?


    Confidence bubbled up within him. Many of the yers watching the match were also unable to discern Hyukjins movements.


    As I thought a nonbat ss is different from abat ss, after all.


    He was super confident, so I thought there would be something special about him, but nope.


    Yeah, hes gonna get wrecked.


    But among all the yers gathered here, some were outstandingly skilled. These yers, the top 10%, felt that something was weird.


    Jo Sunghyun was the same.


    Theres something more to those movements.


    It was hard to exin in concrete terms, but something was strange. He could feel it through the wind. The wind that Hyukjins movements created, the movement of the air, was extremely peaceful.


    Ah!


    When he focused, he realized it. His ss was Child of Wind. He analyzed the information he got through the wind, the movement of the air.


    I get it.


    He understood why it felt so odd.


    Does this make any sense?


    It shouldnt make any sense, but it was happening in front of his very eyes.


    Hyukjin hyung is dodging <i>before </i>Kim Taechuns attack?


    Hyukjin wasnt seeing the attack and then dodging. He was moving in advance to a position where he wouldnt get hit even before the attack started. He didnt move while Taechun was actually moving his axe.


    Almost like he already knows where the axe will go.


    He was like a speedrunner who had the game memorized, someone who knew exactly where and what kind of attack would ur. That was why he was able to dodge even without seeing the attack. There was no doubt about it. There was hardly any time dyunless you looked closely, you wouldnt notice it at all. But Jo Sunghyun could feel it keenly.


    Hah, hah!


    After a furious flurry of attacks, Taechun gasped for breath, showing his failure to regte his stamina. He looked like someone who had never once considered what it meant to pace himself.


    On the other side, Hyukjin briefly forgot he was fighting Taechun. His thoughts were focused wholly on the strange sensation he was experiencing. When fighting an opponent far weaker than himself, a function of Observers Eye seemed to be kicking in. It felt like something was being sketched out in his head and fading away, over and over again.


    Like I can almost grasp it, but its gone the next moment.


    He intentionally provoked Kim Taechun.


    Try attacking some more, why dont you?


    You slimy little rat!


    Hyukjin purposefully kept dodging Taechuns attacks. He read Taechuns fight pattern and the trajectory of his axe. Instead of doing it fully consciously, he partly entrusted that mysterious sense to his instincts. He entrusted his body to the flow.


    Almost like a person born with a god-given gift for battle.


    Ah!


    He had a sh of understanding.


    This.


    The hazy feeling that had been bothering him became a little more concrete.


    This is it.


    It was like a dam bursting and overflowing. At the same time, the notices came in.


    [You have be cognizant of a new enlightenment.]


    [The grade of Eye of Perception has increased.]


    [You have reached a new stage.]


    The PVP match with Kim Taechun gave Hyukjin apletely unexpected new stage.


    A new stage!


    Hyukjin realized instinctively what that was.

 Chapter 86: Enlightenment (2)

    Chapter 86: Enlightenment (2)


    After reading that Eye of Perception had leveled up, I immediately checked the details.<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt;">


    Type: Innate Ability</li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt;">


    Basic acquisition conditions:<ol data-mce-style="padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style="list-style-type: lower-alpha; font-size: 11pt;">


    Sixth Sense</li><li data-mce-style="list-style-type: lower-alpha; font-size: 11pt;">


    Calm Observers Eye</li></ol></li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt;">


    Additional acquisition condition:<ol data-mce-style="padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style="list-style-type: lower-alpha; font-size: 11pt;">


    Ovee the death sentence of Sixth Sense</li><li data-mce-style="list-style-type: lower-alpha; font-size: 11pt;">


    Ovee pain</li></ol></li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt;">


    Detailed exnation:<ol data-mce-style="padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style="list-style-type: lower-alpha; font-size: 11pt;">


    Eye of Perception is an eye of intuition, meaning the user gains concrete knowledge about objects in the outer world through their sense of intuition. It allows the user to intuit and receive information about the target.</li></ol></li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt;">


    Proficiency: [2]</li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt;">


    Traits:<ol data-mce-style="padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style="list-style-type: lower-alpha; font-size: 11pt;">


    Distinguish between Awakened and Unawakened</li><li data-mce-style="list-style-type: lower-alpha; font-size: 11pt;">


    Read Status Windows</li><li data-mce-style="list-style-type: lower-alpha; font-size: 11pt;">


    Sense danger</li><li data-mce-style="list-style-type: lower-alpha; font-size: 11pt;">


    Resistance towards illusory attacks or apparition magic</li></ol></li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt;">


    Additional power:<ol data-mce-style="padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style="list-style-type: lower-alpha; font-size: 11pt;">


    Future Sight</li></ol></li></ol>


    With the increase in proficiency from [1] to [2], a new category, additional power, was added.


    Future Sight.


    I knew what it was without having to open up the detailed exnation. Just like the name suggested, it was the ability to see the future. I took a look at the detailed exnation anyway.


    [Future Sight]


    An eye that can glimpse the future. When PVPing or hunting, you can precisely predict the movements and attacks of the opponent or monster. However, be warned that a great deal of mental power and mana will be consumed in proportion to the opponents abilities.


    I was already feeling the effects of the new ability. As expected of the cheat-level Eye of Perception, it produced an ability that could read an opponents movements in advance.


    What I was sensing earlier


    This meant it wasnt just a vague feeling anymore, but a concrete skill I could use far more reliably and methodically.


    Lets try using it right away.


    There was a note that the consumption of mental power and mana would be enormous depending on the opponents level. It shouldnt be very draining with Kim Taechun as my opponent, so it was worth taking for a spin. In all things, trying it out in practice was the best.


    [Activating the power Future Sight.]


    [You are within Observers Domain.]


    [You are using Observers Eye.]


    [The mana and mental power consumption of Future Sight is reduced.]


    I saw a panting Kim Taechun.


    Dieee!


    He made a big swing of his axe.


    No.


    He hadnt swung yet. What I felt just now was an illusion. In reality, Taechun hadnt swung his axe yet.


    This is Future Sight.


    While I was awed, Taechun ran in exactly like I had seen him do moments earlier.


    When facing Taechun, I can see about one second in advance.


    An unprecedented ability to read what an opponent would do one second in advance. A vivid future that had a time dy but appeared before my eyes in perfect rity like it didnt. A fight pattern that was even more definite and concrete than sensing it with my intuition.


    I do feel myself tiring.


    That had to be what it meant by the consumption of mental power being high. I couldnt describe it exactly, but it kind of felt like I was losing steam, like my vigor was being eaten away. I could feel my body growing heavier, even though it wasnt actually that tired.


    As the proficiency of Eye of Perception rises, Future Sight should grow stronger, too.


    I couldnt expect too much from the beginning. This ability was one that would shine brighter the more my level increased and the more Eye of Perception leveled up.


    I dodged every attack from Kim Taechun with ease. That was enough testing, for now.


    [Stopping the use of the power Future Sight.]


    Taechun gasped for breath.


    Hah! Hah!


    Inparison, I wasnt all that tired. I felt like Id gone on a short walkI did feel a little tired and drained, but it wasnt severe.


    Didnt I tell you about my ss?


    Nonbat ss. ss name, Observer. There was no reason to state the name outright, but there was also no need to hide every little bit of my abilities. I wasnt nning on openly doing things at the forefront, but I also didnt intend on bending backwards to lower my value.


    Im a nonbat ss.


    SHUT UP!


    Kim Taechun swung his axe again, but I didnt even dodge this time, knowing it wouldnt reach me in the first ce. His swing was full of power. It was no wonder that he ran out of strength so quickly.


    Well, Im sure hes fucking pissed. He hasnt been able to hit a nonbat ss even once.


    How embarrassing must it be for abat ss yer to be helpless before a nonbat ss yer in front of so many people?


    But it wasnt my business to worry about him. There was only one reason why I was saying this.


    Kim Kangchul and Song Jinchul. Listen up.


    It was to send a message to those two, as well as to the powers-that-be in Sungshin who still didnt get it and the Taeguk Shield guild members who were acting like they were the chosen ones, like nobles.


    The foundation of my ss is observation.


    I SAID TO SHUT UP!


    He charged at me again, his movements slow and clumsy from exhaustion. I casually closed in on him. The distance between us was now mine to control.


    I chopped his wrist with the side of my hand.


    [Using the skill Excellent Strike.]


    Though I wasnt using a weapon, even my bare hand would deal a great amount of damage to Taechun.


    Ahh! he yelped, dropping his axe.


    <em>Thud!</em>


    Therge axe fell to the ground with a boom. Taechun clutched his wrist and pulled away a little. His foot lifted into the air in instinctive retreat, his bnce crumbling a little.


    Is this how you do it?


    I immediately grabbed him and threw him over my back, mimicking the judo shoulder throw Id glimpsed on Youtube before. It went unexpectedly well. Id never learned how to do it, but maybe reading Yoohyuns movements had helped.


    Gugh!


    As his back hit the ground, there was a resounding crash as loud as his heavy body. Struggling to right himself, he coughed painfully.


    My ss is fundamentally one that continuously observes.


    It wasnt a total lie. 70% was the truth, while 30% was a lie. That was the ratio I was aiming for, like countless Rankers in the future I came from. And now, I was going to resolve this situation my way.


    One that, while continuously observing, ys an intermediary role to ensure that each yers ying joins smoothly into one fluid whole.


    Cough! Cough!


    One that, using the information gained by observing, directs the battlefield my party members and I are on to our favor and asionally gives orders.


    With this, the people at Sungshin and the Guardians alike would know what I was trying to say. But I still spelled it out a little more clearly, in a way that was slightly easier to understand.


    A ss that draws out the efficiency of the party and maximizes each yerstent potential to allow the raid or hunt to progress as optimally as possible.


    I intentionally made things a little more dramatic, taking my time to build up the climax. Because the people at Sungshin were watching, as well as the Guardians.


    My ss is <em>sovereign</em>.


    A short and sweet personal rsum, effective and to the point.


    * * *


    * * *


    After themotion that ensued, Kim Hyukjin and his party members left the yers Association building. As soon as they went out the front door, Choi Sung-gu reproduced the event that had just urred, intentionally deepening his voice.


    My ss is sovereign, he mimicked, his face serious. And then, he marveled all by himself. Kyaa, that was he ssy.


    He clearly remembered the scene earlier. Somehow or another, when Hyukjin delivered the My ss is sovereign line, the room happened to be pinprick silent. And at least from what Sung-gu had seen, Hyukjin was absolutelypatible with a ss called sovereign.


    Sung-gu continued to make a fuss. This kind of thing is a little chuunibyou, but hot damn, do I love it. He suddenly grabbed Hyukjins hand. Dayum. But great Sovereign, I have a question.


    ...


    Grasping Hyukjins hand with both hands, Sung-gu gazed at Hyukjin with eyes he probably thought were shining.


    What kind of sovereignys out abat yer with his bare hands?


    ...


    For a moment, Hyukjin pondered. If he chopped the back of this guys neck with his hand, would he faint, or not? Perhaps sensing Hyukjins murderous intent, Sung-gu quickly took a step back.


    But seriously, though! I think even Yoohyun wouldnt have been able to move like that. Right?


    Yeonseo, who had particrly remarkable talent for 1 vs. 1 PVP, offered her own analysis. Mm, its not cut and dry. Yoohyun obviously wins in pure physical ability and damage, but our boss Hyukjin was using observation to read Taechuns movements in advance and assume a far more favorable position. Thats why he was able to dominate the guy so easily.


    Hyukjin nced sideways and saw Sunhwa grinning from ear to ear, looking very pleased. The sight of her smiling so brightly made him happy, too.


    Whyre you smiling like that?


    It was super satisfying when you threw that guy, oppa. You went swoosh! And his body went whee! And crashed with a ba-bam! Totally serves him right.


    That so?


    Sunhwa nodded vigorously, fiercely agreeing. Smiling, Hyukjin walked a little more.


    But oppa, youre walking slowly on purpose, right?


    The rest of the party had noticed it as well, even Jo Sunghyun, who wasnt that close to Hyukjin yet.


    I am.


    Why?


    Im waiting for something.


    Yeonseo licked her lips. Whats this feeling Im getting that something fun is about to happen?


    It felt like fun things happened around Hyukjin. It was like that in their first gate together, when they went to Japan, and now.


    What could it be?


    She didnt ask, but she could feel it. Hyukjin wasnt at ease right now. From the way he moved and the look in his eyes, she could tell that right now, Hyukjin was preparing for battle.


    As if Yoohyun had also picked up on the strange atmosphere, he turned his head, his neck cracking. Hyukjin stopped in ce and turned around.


    Theres no way it would end like this.


    This was something that hadnt happened in the past. Kim Taechun wasnt reduced to such a sorry state, and he never PVPed with Hyukjin. But despite that, Hyukjin was able to read the future based on Guardian disposition and Kim Taechuns personality. He had a rough idea of what was going to happen.


    With the Courageous Lion Kings personality, he would never want things to end on such a nd note.


    Hyukjin didnt kill Taechun on purpose earlier. Even though the man would revive if killed since it was a PVP zone, Hyukjin stayed his hand intentionally. There was no real need to kill him, plus he figured it would stimte the Courageous Lion King and Taechun even more.


    This makes a better stage.


    That was why he left him alive and left the building.


    What would the Courageous Lion King and Kim Taechun really choose to do?


    Stop right there, you piece of trash! I wont be satisfied unless I fucking kill you!


    Giving off a different feel from before, Kim Taechun charged at Hyukjin, his eyes bright red. He was definitely not his normal selfhe almost looked like the Magic Troll in its berserker state.


    Ill definitely kill you! Lets finish this!


    And then, Taechun let out a furious scream. Heat billowed out of his body.


    <em>Grrrrrr.</em>


    A strange growl came from his lips, and he looked every bit like an enraged bull. Not only that, but some shapes started materializing behind him.


    As I thought.


    Hyukjins lips curled upwards.


    As I thought, this is how you want to do it.


    He had been waiting for this. The Ruler of the ins had finally made their move.

 Chapter 87: Heroic Debut

    Chapter 87: Heroic Debut


    I intentionally left the building, knowing the Courageous Lion King and Kim Taechun wouldnt leave things at that. I wanted a more open space to fight a little morefortably.


    So that the Ruler of the ins can move a little more freely.


    There were a lot of yers on the 12th floor. An equallyrge number of Guardians were watching, and in the crowd were yers those Guardians valued. The Ruler of the ins didnt have the guts to cause an uproar in such a ce.


    I remembered it very clearly.


    [The Ruler of the ins burns with hostility towards you.]


    [The Ruler of the ins detests you.]


    [The Ruler of the ins has reached the limit of their patience.]


    They sent a whopping three messages saying simr things in one go. It wasnt confirmed, but people believed that the number of simr messages a Guardian could send was limited to three. The Ruler of the ins went all the way to the limit to warn me.


    They were waiting for their chance.


    And so, I gave them that chance.


    The Courageous Lion King was also eyeing a chance to make Taechun and me fight again. Me being down here is perfect for that.


    I knew the Ruler of the ins would throw a fit at some point. And I knew that when that happened, the Courageous Lion King would also join in, exactly like I nned.


    I told you, Ill set the stage.


    Rather than the Ruler of the ins causing an uproar alone, it was better for the Courageous Lion King to join the fray. The two of them probably had an agreement to act against me right now.


    The berserk Taechun made a strange growling noise from his throat.


    Ill kill you!


    Behind him, chimera monsters were baring their fangs like they wanted to charge at us right away.


    Orcanthrope LVL 32


    They were fusions of Orcs and Lycanthropes. Basically, chimeras. There were six of them.


    They sure made a lot of them.


    They probably made as many as their Guardian abilities or the System-prescribed limits allowed.


    It must have cost an enormous amount to make that many.


    Overall, the monsters looked simr to Lycanthropes, but they had misshapen green skin instead of wolf fur. They were also using weapons like clubs or spears, like Orcs.


    Theyre fundamentally stronger than Lycanthropes.


    They had no weakness of being enfeebled by water. They were also physically strong and belonged to a race categorized as Orc level or higher. Naturally, modern weapons wouldnt work against them.


    Yeonseo drew her sword.


    Boss. This looks a bit dangerous. Theyre all level 32, and the energy theyre giving off is no joke. And whats with Kim Taechun? Hes acting like hes gone mad all of a sudden.


    Even without my orders, my party members fell into position on their own ord. To my amusement, Sunghyun and Sung-gu were standing with their backs to each other, taking the optimal position to synergize. In order to protect the two magicians, Sunhwa was holding arge shield next to them, and Yoohyun stood next to me, readying his mana.


    Hyungnim, he said to me. Howe theyre not attacking Taechun?


    Because Taechun is no different from a monster right now.


    To be more precise, the monsters recognized him as a monster. The Guardians surely had a hand in it.


    Listen up. Those guys are faster than Lycanthropes. My words implied that no one other than me or Yeonseo could overpower the Orcanthropes. Their characteristics have changed a lot, so I dont think the weakness of Lycanthropes will apply, and its also impossible to fight them like when we fought the Great Orc Warrior.


    In other words


    If we fight them head-on, well take significant damage.


    If we were unlucky, someone could even die.


    Fuck. Should I just burn them to a crisp then? Want me to show you the Jayangdong Firemaster?


    He wasnt being serious. Sung-gu knew that throwing out a big attack would pull the aggro to him. The moment that happened, there was a 99% chance the magician ss Sung-gu would die.


    Mettle probably wont work right now.


    I said one more thing to my party members.


    For now, stay put while drawing as little aggro as possible. The police and other yers wille to support us.


    If my prediction was correct, the people upstairs should already have seen thising, and someone would eventuallye down. That someone would very likely be the Taeguk Shield guild members.


    Taeguk Shielding down didnt necessarily mean that a new path opened up for me. It simply meant that the police and reporters would take action as well.


    Sungshin might only be a corporation, but I was sure the government would act. Even if they didnt bring fighter jets and tanks, they would at least send special forces armed with automatic weapons, and quickly. Naturally, reporters would also rush over to provide coverage.


    To make a shy debut, Taeguk Shield will intentionally take their timeing down.


    But the Ruler of the ins also wanted to drag things out, because they wanted to see me shrivel in fear. So in essence, the two parties had the same intent.


    In that case, the picture is clear.


    * * *


    The Orcanthropes werent attacking us right away. They were simply giving off a threatening aura. The Courageous Lion King, who was getting a share of the action instigated by the Ruler of the ins, was also waiting.


    They wont attack us right away. Stay on the ready. In a little while, theyll fight with the police. The government might even send special forces here.


    The special forces would definitely start attacking the monsters, and there was a very high chance theyd act overbearing with us, like Sungshin had done upstairs. Why? Because they had to dampen our spirits.


    Theres a high chance theyll act overbearing with us, but dont respond and just stay put. We wont be killing the mobs this time.


    I had already leveled a veiled deration of war against Sungshin. Not only did I basically threaten the youngest grandson of Sungshins president, but I also confidently dered that I would raise my value with my own two hands. In order to control me and the other yers, Sungshin would want to show their strength by moving government forces and saving our lives to get us indebted to them.


    Yeonseo asked, Boss Hyukjin, what do we need to do?


    Make sure the aggro doesnt go to the civilians. Taeguk Shield will hunt the monsters.


    Will Taeguk Shield really go in and hunt them?


    I have to make them.


    That wont boost the casualties, will it?


    Trust me. Today, those guys will be hunted without any losses on our side.


    Was I just imagining it, or did Yeonseos cheeks redden a little?


    O-Okay. I will trust you.


    For some reason, she seemed to be awfully polite all of a sudden. Just then, I heard another growl. Kim Taechun was exuding an aura no inferior to the growling Orcanthropes. And then came the loud sounds of sirens.


    Huh? Like Boss said, the police really areing.


    Be it police or special forces, it was useless.


    They cant be killed with modern weapons.


    There was just no way. From Orcs onwards, modern weapons were useless.


    [The Nameless Observer is observing you.]


    [The Whispering Devil is delighted by your scheme.]


    [The Merchant of Venice has pinpointed exactly what your intent is.]


    The iprehensible Whispering Devil and extremely quick-witted Merchant of Venice seemed to know what kind of situation this was. Right now, the stage was set and the action was waiting for the right moment to begin. The two Guardians were greatly enjoying the show I had crafted with the Guardians dispositions, Kim Taechuns personality, and all the other elements in mind.


    This is the police!


    Police cars pulled up, and the sound of helicopter des came from above.


    The police and special forces streamed out of their cars. As if to show off their strength, they spoke to us in amanding tone. We will kill the monsters!


    In the meantime, the Taeguk Shield guild members also came down. Their timing was absolutely impable, like they had measured it with a ruler.


    To start, I gave a warning.


    I am a yer with a special ss. Its dangerous here. Modern weap


    I wasnt able to continue. A policeman wearing a ck special forces uniform gestured me into silence. We will handle it. Civilians, for your own safety, please get far away.


    Get far away was the nice version of what was really fuck off. That was the true message written in every part of his expression and tone. They seemed to have a lot of faith in their abilities.


    Maybe I stopped too many dungeon breaks.


    Actually, Orcs <i>should </i>have already appeared in the real world. They <i>should </i>have caused a lot of damage. But because I prevented that from happening, these guys had no clue about the shields monsters of a certain level possessed.


    A person who looked like amanding officer said sternly, If you do not cooperate, we will use force to temporarily detain you.


    They looked ready to use their guns if we didntply. I raised both hands behind my head and gave them onest piece of advice. This was all I could do.


    Your weapons wont work against them. You need the strength of yers.


    We will be the judge of that. Back off.


    They have a shield that modern weapons dont work against.


    I said to <i>back off.</i>


    I had given as much warning as I could. I took a few steps backwards. Seemingly pleased by my submissive attitude, the man spoke into his radio.


    Fire on my signal.


    Reporters also rushed in to broadcast the situation. With them, every piece was present.


    The Courageous Lion King and Ruler of the ins, working together. The Brown Bear Kim Taechun being controlled by them. Taeguk Shield, who wanted to be heroes. The police, who had most likely receivedmands from Sungshins upper management. And finally, the reporters who were here to show the world what was happening.


    The picture Id told Senia about when we whispered earlier was fitting into ce exactly as Id envisioned it. Taeguk Shield woulde under mymand. And through it, I would obtain every benefit there was to obtain. After a few more steps, that was well within the realm of possibility.


    Without standing in the fore, I would be able to secure a share of Sungshins mighty support.


    Taeguk Shield. You want to have a shy debut, right?


    Song Kiyeols future path would change depending on how he developed Taeguk Shield. It would determine whether he would inherit Sungshin or not. After all, Taeguk Shield was essentially hand in hand with the new tech business.


    But he cant do it alone.


    The guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, Song Kiyeol, didnt realize that modern weapons wouldnt work on the Orcanthropes. From the very start, his n to suppress the monsters with modern weapons and then have the guild make a shy debut in front of the reporters was wed.


    But


    It was still possible if I helped, using a ying method that was mine alone. At least in this moment, right now, only I could pull it off.


    The Ruler of the ins was incensed by the fact I wasnt showing a hint of fear, even after so much intimidation.[The Ruler of the ins withdraws the final chance they gave you.]


    Final chance? Apparently, theyd wanted to see me sniveling and begging for mercy. They still thought this stage was under their control.[The Ruler of the ins bears very intense hostility towards you.]


    If I could have sent a message, I would have told them that I felt exactly the same way, and that we would see who woulde out on top.


    With that notice, the chimera monsters, the Orcanthropes, began to move.


    It has begun.

 Chapter 88: Heroic Debut (2)

    Chapter 88: Heroic Debut (2)


    Taeguk Shields n went awry as soon as they counted on the policemen being able to suppress the monsters. There would be no beautiful conclusion like Taeguk Shields guild members going in to mop up the monsters after they were first quelled with modern weapons.


    AHHHH!


    One of the policemen firing his pistol behind the barrier of his police car door was ripped apart lengthwise.


    <i>Shaaa!</i>


    Blood fountained out, turning the police car that was protecting the man just moments ago bright red, almost like someone had thrown several cans of red paint onto the vehicle.


    There was a moment of stunned silence.


    ...


    The Orcanthropes growling as they exhaled hot breaths were perfectly at ease. It seemed they hade to the conclusion that they were the strongest beings here. They prowled with leisure, filling their prey with fear, savoring the thrill. Kim Taechun simply huffed and puffed in ce, probably on orders from the Courageous Lion King. Even without moving, he cut quite an intimidating picture. He was definitely not in his right mind.


    I warned you.


    I warned them, but they didnt listen. A life was lost right in front of me. Could I have saved that policeman if I had moved more proactively? The answer was no.


    I would have been arrested before I could save him.


    The agitated policemen might have even fired at me with their guns. They wouldnt listen to me anyway. Humans would only believe what they saw and heard with their own eyes and ears.


    <i>Whap whap whap whap whap!</i>


    Arge shadowa helicopterpassed over my head. I saw a sniper aiming at the monsters in the helicopter. We were in the heart of downtown Seoul, and there were a lot of people nearby. They werent able to use heavy weapons capable of intense firepower, so sniping was the best option.


    Like I said, its no use.


    Even if they came with machine guns instead of sniper rifles, they wouldnt be able to do a thing to monsters above Orc level.


    The head honcho of Taeguk Shield, Song Kiyeol, was also unable to staypletely calm right now.


    State: Slightly Flustered / Cautious/ Vignt


    So sorry you couldnt make a cool entrance and finish off the mobs, I thought to myself. Turning to my party members, I said, Nobody move.


    The policemen hadpletely pulled the aggro. The crack of bullets being fired was still ringing out, but they should know by now that modern weapons were ineffective. It wasnt even that they were doing chip damage, but that their bullets were being nullified altogether.


    If anyone does end up drawing aggro, Sunhwa, you go to the front and defend. Shout loudly to get my attention.


    There was no such thing as 100% perfect. The policemen armed with personal weapons were currently drawing all the aggro, but it could bounce to the yers at any moment. I told them what to do if that happened.


    Sunhwa tilted her head. I should shout?


    That would draw even more aggro, and potentially capture the attention of other monsters. Her worries werent unfounded. It was reasonable that she would question it.


    Yeah. Dont worry and shout loud enough to let me know.


    Got it.


    The perceptive Sunhwa immediately bobbed her head, and I began to slowly walk forward. Someone yelled at me.


    Hey! I told you not to move!


    It was the man who looked like themander here, the same one who had told us to stay put earlier. He didnt have a name badge on, but I could see what his name was.


    Name: Park Jiseok


    Mr. Park Jiseok. If this continues, it will be a ughter. I have business with the guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, Song Kiyeol, over there.


    ...


    I intentionally mentioned Song Kiyeol. Even if themander didnt know Kim Hyukjin, he certainly knew Song Kiyeol, the person who should have originally been this stages main character. Song Kiyeol, a 3rd generation chaebol scion and the guildmaster of Taeguk Shield. He was probably wracking his brains to figure out how to resolve this situation, and it went without being said that he must have seen me walking his way.


    A message came over them.


    Guildmaster Song Kiyeol says he would like a brief meeting.


    I shrugged, then walked slowly towards Song Kiyeol, taking the utmost care not to draw any aggro.


    That was the highest level of respect onm just now.


    Song Kiyeol was just the guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, a guild that wasnt even that famous yet. Right now, he was merely a 3rd generation chaebol. And yet, the policeman stepped aside simply because Song Kiyeol wanted to see me.


    Sungshin really is powerful.


    Well, it was all the same to me. Actually, the more powerful Sungshin was, the better it was for me, since I would be able to get that much more.


    While I was inching forward, the second victim urred. A ripped off arm arced through the air, rotating beforending onto the ground with a wet thud. Red blood puddled around it.


    Reinforcements! Requesting reinforcements!


    We have two casualties! The situation is critical!


    I also heard the policemen urgently requesting reinforcements. And then, I finally made it to Song Kiyeol. He hadnt managed to take a position among the 8 Heroes, but he was still one of the yers who represented Korea, not by virtue of his personal power or skill, but by his leadership of Koreas strongest guild, Taeguk Shield. He was also known as being rtively righteous for a 3rd generation chaebol heir.


    * * *


    Many people are watching, so it looks like you cant stay out of it, Guildmaster Song Kiyeol.


    All of the reporters had their cameras pointed at this scene. The stage had been set so that Taeguk Shield could no longer keep out of it, no matter how pyrrhic the battle would be. Of course, that stage had been set by me.


    It seems you have something to say to me, Song Kiyeol said.


    I gave a warning in advance. I said that modern weapons wont work on those monsters. The policemen didnt listen or believe me. They rushed in for the sake of someones glorious entrance.


    Are you picking a fight with me?


    I am not, nor do I have any reason to do so.


    It wasnt my intent to make Song Kiyoung falter. I would turn him into the hero of this ce. For all I cared, he could wear the hero cape. <i>I </i>would secure the actual profit.


    GAAAHHH!


    Another person screamed.


    <i>AWOOOOO!</i>


    One of the Orcanthropes howled, which got the rest of the Orc-Lycanthrope hybrids sitting on their haunches to howl at the sky.


    <i>Awooooooo!</i>


    <i>Awooooooo!</i>


    Their howl seemed to sweep through the city like an emergency siren, a funeral dirge for the bloodied humans copsed all over the ce. The sound was extremely grating on the ears.


    The longer this goes on, the more casualties there will be. Theres no knowing where the aggro will go next.


    The police were still attacking, and the special forces were still firing, but soon, they too would hesitate. As soon as that happened, there was no knowing who those monsters would attack next. They might even run out and attack the countless civilians in the vicinity.


    I wont let that happen.


    Once I secured the maximum profit for myself, I would prevent as many deaths as possible. That was my ying method.


    [The Whispering Devil is watching gleefully.]


    [The Nameless Observer is observing.]


    [The Lady of the Scales is disappointed in you.]


    Even if the Lady of the Scales was disappointed in me, it wasnt the time for me to jump in. If I were to run into that battlefield where it was hailing bullets, my life would be the first to go. Bullets didnt have eyes to distinguish between friend and foe.


    I will get to the point. I intend on making Guildmaster Song Kiyeol into a hero.


    Me?


    If you minimize the losses here and sessfully kill those monsters, you can be a hero. Along with Taeguk Shield.


    <i>That was your guys original n, wasnt it? That was the debut Taeguk Shield wanted. </i>Although I didnt say it out loud, Song Kiyeol understood my words.


    However, all items and byproducts thate from the hunt will go to me and my party members.


    ...


    Oh, right. Starting now, I will record this conversation. I need a little assurance as well.


    I could feel Song Kiyeols psychological state.


    State: Doubt / Distrust / Suspicion


    Well, that was only natural. He didnt know much about me.


    Using my special ability, I can put the monsters into a groggy state, a condition where a severe impact makes them stagger around, unable to steady themselves. It willst about five minutes. That should be more than enough time for you to hunt them with us. I added one more thing. If youre unable to kill them even while theyre groggy It just means that Taeguk Shields abilities are too weak. Their weak points are the back of the neck, heart, forehead, temples. They have rtively weak defense at every spot that can be considered a weak point.


    You speak almost as if you have faced them yourself.


    Im well-informed about those monsters.


    I shrugged. Song Kiyeol stared at me.


    [Eye of Perception detects a foreign energy.]


    [Eye of Perception detects the use of the innate ability Eye of Truth.]


    Was this kind of talent hereditary? President Song Kiyoung awakened an innate ability at only level 10, and his grandson, Song Kiyeol, already had an innate ability too. Seeing as how both Yoohyun and Yeonseo also had them, the innate ability awakening period for geniuses must be much sooner than the world thought.


    [The grade of the innate ability Eye of Perception is higher than the grade of Eye of Truth.]


    [Eye of Perceptionpletely negates the ability Eye of Truth.]


    I grinned, smiling widely on purpose.


    I distinctly recall saying that I had a special power. I lowered my voice a little, wanting to surprise him a little more. Something like Eye of Truth is incapable of seeing through me.


    ...


    State: Shock / Flustered / Doubt


    Eye of Perception wasying his state bare before me, but the Guildmasters expression was an unperturbed poker face. He was really damn good at keeping his expressions off his face.


    You can say this to the reporters: Watch Taeguk Shields hunt.


    Monsters that were invulnerable to modern weapons, and the heroes who would kill them. The guild members of Taeguk Shield would be those heroes.


    We will work to keep the aggro from going to the civilians.


    Are you sure they will suffer the groggy state?


    Even if you dont believe me, do you have any other option?


    Dragging this out any further was meaningless. There were definitely times when a leader had to make a quick decision. Right now was one of those times.


    Also, I propose $100k aspensation.


    $100k. It was neither too small nor toorge an amount to pay to achieve what Taeguk Shield wanted. In my opinion, it was the perfect amount.


    ...Youre very confident. You seem to be sure that I will ept your proposal.


    Im sure of it, yes.


    He had no choice but to ept. We could run away here, and that would be that. Who would throw sticks and stones at us for running so we could live? But Taeguk Shield was different. They had the name of Sungshin attached to them and were Koreasrgest guild. If they fled here, they would suffer an irrecoverable blow.


    Of course he will ept.


    My proposal wasnt terrible for Taeguk Shield. In the end, Song Kiyeol made his decision.


    How will you turn us into He stopped mid-sentence. No. There are many things I am curious about, but I will trouble you to answer my questionster.


    I knew there were many unresolved doubts in his head. However, the situation was too urgent. Five people had already died. Song Kiyeol was well aware that it wasnt the time to be chatting around like this.


    I will answer your questions one by er.


    From talking to Song Kiyeol, I became sure of it. I might not be able to control President Song Kiyoung, but I could certainly keep his grandson Song Kiyeol in the palm of my hand. Everything was going as I predicted.


    If my prediction and scenario are correct, then the next ce well meet will be the police station, huh?


    The scenario was steadily progressing the way I had drafted it. I would be able to bring Taeguk Shield under me like I intended.


    I added one more thing.


    Oh, right. You know that I am not alone, yes?


    What do you mean?


    It will be $100k per person. Since we will move as a party.


    ...


    If you dont like that, then it cant be helped.


    Song Kiyeol would definitely ept. To him, a few hundred thousand dors wasnt all that important right now, something I knew well. I counted down in my heart.


    Three. Two. One.


    Sure enough


    Fine. You must put them in a groggy state, without fail. He didnt look very happy. If you fail to do so, I will take it as you deceiving and insulting me.


    He was biting his lip a little, but to be honest, it was more cute than threatening, kind of like an elementary school kid being surly with an adult.


    Thats fine.


    I got what I wanted, so now, it was time to do what he wanted.


    Normally, they wouldnt be capable of killing Orcanthropes.


    If they had shed straight-on with this many Orcanthropes, I would have decided without hesitation to flee. That was the way to ensure that as many of my party members would survive as possible. But it was different now. Now, I had a way forward.


    Now then. Shall we hunt?

 Chapter 89: Heroic Debut (3)

    Chapter 89: Heroic Debut (3)


    I temporarily made a party with the Taeguk Shield guild members. Everything was ready.


    With our strength, killing those Orcanthropes without taking any losses was nearly impossible. On top of that, there was Kim Taechun. We couldnt just shoot him to death, since he was still a human. Though it was unclear why he was just standing there without attacking anyone, he would definitely start moving once we did. If we just fought him straight-on, we would lose more than we would gain.


    However


    The current me was different. I took out an item.


    [High Orcs Spell Scroll]


    The High Orc reigns as the upper-ranking predator of the Orc race. This scroll is imbued with the abilities of a High Orc with a special bloodline that sets it apart even from other High Orcs. This item will have an outstanding effect on Orcs, and one of four possible abilities can be used.


    Remaining uses: 1


    Affects: Orcs<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt;">


    Spell of Super Strength</li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt;">


    Spell of Illusion</li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt;">


    Spell of Infatuation</li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt;">


    Spell of Submission</li></ol>


    I could pick one of four spells to use. The High Orcs Spell Scroll was a gift the Whispering Devil secretly gave me, having already predicted this situation.


    From this alone you can tell that the Whispering Devil is a Guardian with greater power and ability than the Ruler of the ins.


    A Guardian who was almost always in the five limited slots for sending notices, and the item he sent me. This was the item I had relied on to draw out the current situation.


    What caught my eye was the Spell of Submission.


    [Spell of Submission]


    Using the powerful authority of the High Orc, invokes the power of forced submission on all Orcs lower in rank than the High Orc.


    It was time to finish up the picture I had drawn based on this item.


    [Using the High Orcs Spell Scroll.]


    [Use the Spell of Submission?]


    I lifted the scroll into the air, knowing that at least the Guardians would be watching me. Then, I intentionally uttered the incantation in a very quiet voice that was still loud enough to be streamed to the Guardians.


    Spell of Submission.


    A powerful gravitational wave pulsed out. It wasnt visible to the eye, but my Observers Eye showed me exactly how this spell unfurled. Countless invisible vertical lines mmed down on the bodies of the Orcanthropes.


    <em>Thud!</em>


    One of the Orcanthropes fell to its knees, whimpering like an already defeated puppy.


    Some of them are resisting it.


    Some were resisting the Spell of Submission with growls, most likely because they werentpletely Orcs, but Orc-Lycanthrope hybrids.


    But even so


    I was sure of it.


    None of them can escape the High Orc spells influence.


    At most, they could only resist it, and only for a brief moment. Maybe a Great Orc Warrior-Lycanthrope hybrid might be capable of shaking off the spell, but these were regr Orcs fused with regr Lycanthropes. These early level 30 monsters could never hope to be free of this power of forced submission.


    Observers Eye can see it.


    The countless vertically-descending ck lines only I could see were hard to put a name on. A gravitational wave? No, it felt subtly different.


    Can I just see it as a wave imbued with some kind of powerful force that makes them kneel?


    I wasnt able to analyze the true nature of this power. While I was contemting, the guild members of Taeguk Shield began to take action, shing and piercing the kneeling or copsed Orcanthropes at random.


    The spell has fully taken effect.


    Now, Taeguk Shield could just mop them up. I watched from the side, keeping Observers Eye and Observers Domain active.


    [The Nameless Observer respects your stance.]


    [The Whispering Devil feels a little regretful.]


    Apparently, this wasnt the picture the Whispering Devil had wanted. He probably wanted me to do something like personally go out and ughter the monsters or make some kind of big scene.


    [EXP acquired.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    The EXP was building up without me lifting a finger. Right now, I was in the level 30 period that was called the Hell Phase, so my level didnt go up, but I was still getting pretty good EXP.


    In the meantime, many reporters filmed Taeguk Shields performance.


    By tomorrow, Taeguk Shield will have be heroes.


    <em>Taeguk Shield, the guild that defeated the incredibly strong monsters that even the military and police couldnt subdue!</em> Articles of that nature would ster the front pages.


    As for Kim Taechun


    I was amazed to see that he was still not moving. Was it simply because of a quest? He wasnt an Orc, so he shouldnt be affected by the High Orcs Spell Scroll. Why was he just standing there?


    Wait.


    It felt off. I thought back to the ck lines that had appeared by the power of the High Orcs Spell Scroll.


    Those lines


    They had evaded Kim Taechun in a strange way, almost like there was a round barrier or something around his body.


    No, thats not it. He didnt just block them.


    It was something far more intrinsic than that. He didnt just block the ck linesthey werent able to approach him altogether. They were <em>extinguished</em>.


    The scroll imbued with the High Orcs power registered on everyone here. It was just that the actual effect only triggered on Orcs. The effect didnt show up on regr humans, but the spell <em>did </em>affect them. Which meant those ck lines affected everyone here in the same way.


    But


    Kim Taechun was different. That power wasnt able to approach him altogether.


    A power higher in grade than the High Orcs power


    Upon closer inspection, I saw a shimmer around Kim Taechuns body, like his body was giving off some kind of heat. Something was weird about it.


    [Eye of Perception perceives a strange energy.]


    At the same time, I unknowingly groaned in pain.


    Gugh!


    I clutched my right eye as it throbbed in extreme agony. There was blood on my palm and it flowed from my eye and dripped through my fingers.


    It cant be.


    I thought I could guess what this phenomenon might be.


    Come to think of it


    I didnt hear any notices from the Courageous Lion King, who was deeply involved in the current situation. If he knew I was hatching this kind of scheme, he would have definitely sent messages like The Courageous Lion King is sneering or The Courageous Lion King snorts at your cowardice.


    Hes so upied with something that he cant pay attention to me.


    Then there could only be one answer.


    It cant be.


    But that answer made no sense. We were only in the early game. <em>That</em>, in the early game? And from a Guardian like the Courageous Lion King, a pretty famous Guardian in his own right?


    <em>Descent</em>?


    Descent.


    In the dictionary, it meant a goding down from the heavens to the human world.


    asionally, some Guardians would invoke a descent. It put an incredible burden on the yers body, and there was no knowing what kind of side effects they would have afterwards. There were even cases where yers exploded, unable to bear the Guardians authority and power.


    That fucking crazy courage-lover.


    He was borrowing Kim Taechuns body to try and invoke the power of descent. It went without being said that the current Taechun wasnt capable of safely shouldering a descent.


    Though I dont know how much power hes putting into this descent


    I wasnt clear on what kinds of descents there were, either. Even ten years from now, not much was known about it.


    In any case, Kim Taechuns done for.


    The Courageous Lion King might be a courage-addled addict, but he wasnt aplete idiot. I was sure he would use the perfect amount of force to have a fierce battle with me. After the fierce battlebasically, once the courage-lover was done with his toolKim Taechun would die.


    It might be dangerous for me, too.


    The situation was urgent. This was no time for me to be watching idly from the side.


    [Using the special skill sh Step.]


    I closed in immediately, not stopping to think about the particrs. I took up position behind Taechun, who was still defenseless. There was no time to contemte. My eyes flitted to the back of his neck, which I grabbed in a hasty choke. I squeezed his neck with all the strength I had, crouching down. From a 3rd partys perspective, I must have looked like a cicada clinging to a tree.


    I didnt know how much time passed like that, maybe a few seconds. It was just that urgent.


    <em>Thud!</em>


    Kim Taechuns body slumped to the ground. The strange sensation surrounding him, the shimmering aura I had felt through Observers Eye, disappeared. What would be a good way to describe it? God ki, maybe?


    [The Nameless Observer continues observing.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain is impressed by your quick judgment.]


    [The Lady of the Scales denounces the Courageous Lion King.]


    Seeing as our just Lady was publicly denouncing him, it seemed the courage-lover really <em>was</em> trying to invoke descent.


    Hes well and properly nuts, trying to pull a descent on a beginner yers body.


    But if you considered it another way


    It also means that Ive stimted him so intensely that he couldnt resist the overwhelming itch.


    That was another possible interpretation. I had given him so much stimulus and fun that the courage-lover charged straight in, consequences be damned. So much fun that hepletely flipped his lid.


    Nice.


    Of course, this incident would be famous among the Guardians, and that would definitely work out in my favor.


    Having already finished off the Orcanthropes, Song Kiyeol approached me, eyeing the unconscious Kim Taechun.


    Were nearly finished here. Did you PVP just now?


    Lets settle the payment next time, I responded. Im a little busy right now. I will answer your questions soon.


    That would probably happen at the ce I was predicting, the police station.


    For now, well get out of here.


    In order to bring the picture Id been drawing to itspletion, it was best to step aside for now. Taeguk Shield would take care of the rest.


    We will soon meet again. I wasnt sure how soon, but if my guess was correct, it would be very soon. However, I continued talking like I didnt know. I think it would be best for me to step aside so you can sort things out over here.


    As if he had wanted that in the first ce, Song Kiyeol nodded immediately. Understood. I will get in contact with you.


    * * *


    * * *


    I quickly left the ce that hade within an inch of bing the site of a Guardian descent. No matter how I thought about it, the Courageous Lion King was seriously insane, considering he tried to use a descent that even high-level yers had a hard time handling.


    Lets call it quits for the day, I told my party members.


    This was enough for todays ying. Too much had happened in one go. I was also very tired from my continuous use of Eye of Perception and Observers Eye. Both my ability to concentrate and my stamina were exhausted.


    Oppa are you alright?


    Boss Hyukjin! Is your eye alright? Who did that to you?!


    Hyungnim!


    Hyung are you alright?


    Goddammit. Just tell me who it was, and Ill burn em down.


    I calmed down my overreacting party members. An injury of this level would go away with a cure potion.


    Get some rest. Ill contact you soon, so see you then.


    Everyone seemed tired.


    Yeonseo said, Theres a lot I want to ask our Boss Hyukjin She still looked worried. But Ill ask youter. Boss Hyukjin, take care of yourself. Get well soon. When your eyes better, lets go get a meal together.


    Her use of the possessive when referring to me slightly bothered me somehow, but I didntment on it and watched as she waved goodbye. Yoohyun and Sung-gu also left, leaving just me, Sunhwa, and Sunghyun.


    Sunhwa and I are gonna go by taxi.


    Alright, hyung. My house happens to be in the same direction.


    Sunhwa was so tired that she was dozing off on her feet. Her sense of tension had left her, leaving her deted. This little sister of mine had a real talent for sleeping on her feet.


    My bleeding eye was throbbing, but it didnt bother me too much. I nced at Sunghyun.


    Mm.


    He certainly had something to say to me. He was probably still debating whether he should say it or not. I decided to wait for him, since it wasnt a pressing issue.


    The taxi came. The moment Sunhwa and I were about to get in, Sunghyun spoke up.


    Hyung. I have something to tell you.


    After apologizing to the taxi driver, I closed the car door and turned around to face Sunghyun.


    I was waiting.


    ...What?


    In the beginning, when we came down to the 1st floor and left the building and I was walking slowly, I said, <em>Im waiting for something.</em>


    What I had been waiting for wasnt the Orcanthropes or my n involving Taeguk Shield. I had been waiting for Jo Sunghyun to speak up.


    ...


    He blinked, staring at me. Then, he said, So you were saying that about me.


    Yeah. Thats right.


    If I am not mistaken, it seems you already know what I am about to say.


    Of course I did. I just didnt know if he was going to bring it up today, orter. I gave him a light nod, looking at him. Judging from his inability to hide his shocked expression, he seemed pretty darn surprised.


    Want me to guess what youre going to say?


    <em>Youre ten years too young to get the jump on me, kid.</em>

 Chapter 90

    Chapter 90


    <strong>Chapter 90:</strong>


    I was waiting.


    When he heard those words, Sunghyun felt his heart drop.


    Want me to guess what youre going to say?


    He wasnt guilty of anything, but it felt like he was, like he did something wrong to his lifelong savior. Like he was toote.


    No, I will say it. I apologize for beingte.


    Hyukjin shrugged and smiled, then patted Sunghyun on the shoulder. Not at all.


    Hyukjin didnt think Sunghyun waste at all. In fact, he thought it was rather fast. He had always known what Sunghyuns disposition and personality were like. Thed didnt need to feel like he did something wrong or feel guilty just because he didnt say it right away.


    Its not like you have an obligation to tell me. Hyukjin fully discerned Sunghyuns feelings, almost like a mind reader. You have no obligation to tell me what you got there. If you were to feel any obligation, it would be because Im your benefactor.


    Hyukjin had given him the incredible artifact that was the Venti Body Tome and even lent him the Wind Shoes +1. He protected him from the Bigmouth Lizard and the Ghosts attack. To Jo Sunghyun, Hyukjin was most definitely his benefactor.


    But its okay. You can repay the debt you owe me at your own discretion. Youre not obligated to share and tell me everything.


    ...


    Its good to differentiate the cards in your hand from favors you owe. Because its not like youre repaying a favor by revealing every card in your hand.


    Sunghyun nodded. ...Okay. Thank you for the lesson.


    In his mind, he was wondering, Just how old is this hyung?


    He thought Hyukjin was 20, but he seemed at least ten years older in mental maturity. Sunghyun didnt think there were many proper adults out there in the world, but he got the feeling that he was facing a real adult when talking to Kim Hyukjin.


    * * *


    I want to tell you. I think that will make me feel most at ease.


    I also nodded. There was no need to refuse when Sunghyun wanted to say it.


    As you know, when I destroyed the Clear Crystal, it felt like that crystal was being absorbed into my body.


    I know.


    Id seen it myself, which was why I was curious about it.


    There was a notice saying the Clear Crystals energy melted into my life, and if I satisfied a certain condition, I could activate the Wind Temple.


    Wind Temple?


    I already knew where the Wind Temple would activatein the Hill of Wind dungeon that would spawn on Geoje Ind in Gyeongnam, quite a distance away from Seoul. Only, I didnt know the particrs about the dungeon.


    It was known as a dungeon that the Typhoon Jo Sunghyun cleared on his own


    Was that Wind Temple the same as the Wind Temple being discussed now? I couldnt be sure, and that was because Sunghyun and I cleared the Tomb of the Great Orc Warrior, a ce that hadnt existed in the past. The Clear Crystal of that sh gate had given Sunghyun this opportunity.


    When did the past Sunghyun get this opportunity?


    Back then, the Herdsman of Las Vegas wouldnt have proposed a gamble, and there hadnt been a Bluelight Candle then, either. The process was a little different, so it might have been that Sunghyun was originally supposed to have gotten this opportunityter. I didnt know <em>when </em>the past Sunghyun got this opportunity, but the general flow of events seemed to be going in a simr direction as the past. It was just that the timing was different.


    Sunghyun continued. I dont know any details yet either.


    I nced sideways at Senia. It looked like she was still streaming.


    Should I throw out some bait?


    Appealing hints that could put Guardians on pins and needles were called bait, aka foreshadowing. Some yers and Streamers were skilled at using such bait to fire up the Guardians.


    Even if you only make good on seven out of ten baits thrown, itll be a jackpot.


    That was a publicly known fact. If none of your baits became relevant, you would be cussed out, but there was no need to make good on every single one you threw. The Guardians would go crazy even if only seven out of ten hit the mark.


    By any chance, if you get a condition for a dungeon you have to clear alone Let me know. I think Ill be able to give you some advice.


    Sunghyuns eyes quivered.


    State: Very Shocked


    My Eye of Perception, a skill capable of seeing various representative emotions, showed that Sunghyun was only feeling Very Shocked right now. It meant he was just that surprised.


    Hyung.


    What?


    Sunghyun pulled up his sleeves and showed me his arms.


    I have goosebumps right now.


    Howe?


    I heard a notice just now. A notice saying that Ive just satisfied one of the Clear Crystals conditions.


    Even I was bbergasted.


    Out of nowhere?


    Just what kind of condition did he satisfy?


    Apparently, this energy is embedded and fused into my body. So its linked to my cognitive system.


    So basically


    As soon as I thought of the keywords dungeon you have to clear alone... the condition was satisfied. Those keywords were the condition, hyung.


    ...Is that so?


    I acted unperturbed, but I was just as shocked. I just casually said a sentence, and that in itself became a hint. Was it really okay for something like that to happen?


    You only said one thing How is this possible?


    ...


    That was exactly what I wanted to know. I was surprised, too, but I kept feigning calmness.


    It must be because you have a sovereign ss, hyung.


    No, I didnt think my ss had much to do with this.


    Sunghyun looked very excited, which was unusual for the usually quiet boy. He was talking faster. New information was unlocked. It looks like an item called Fox Tail is the key.


    ...


    Fox Tail. It was an item I had already possessed before. Back in the dungeon the Giant of the Sunset crafted with all his power to raise his all-time favorite yer Choi Sung-gu, I used the Fox Tail in the Valley of Fire.


    Fox Tail was the clear item? From that, I could infer something significant. When the serial murders happened near Mt. Inwang in the past


    In the past, the government covered up those grotesque murders, and in the end, the man arrested as the suspect for the serial murders evenmitted suicide. This time, I sessfully hunted the Six-Tailed Fox, which prevented the serial murders from ever happening.


    This time, I hunted it. But what about in the past?


    I think Sunghyun must have killed it.


    When that urred to me, it felt like the somewhat hazy pieces of the past became more clear.


    The past Sunghyun didnt publicize the unlock conditions for the Wind Temple.


    It was a dungeon he cleared alone, so there hadnt been much reason for him to reveal the unlock conditions. However, Jo Sunghyun valued impartiality and justice. When it came to information that he didnt necessarily <em>have </em>to publicize, but <em>could</em>, he would choose nine times out of ten to publicize it on the off chance it might help others even a little bit.


    The Fox Tail he got back then, and the Six-Tailed Fox that dropped it.


    He wasnt able to reveal his acquisition of the Fox Tail from the Six-Tailed Fox because the government had covered up the very existence of the Six-Tailed Fox. It was possible that the Jo Sunghyun of that time realized that the true culprit of the serial murders going on at the time was the Six-Tailed Fox.


    If he did he must have felt an incredible amount of guilt.


    With his personality, he must have felt stuck between a rock and a hard ce, with a heavy sense of guilt weighing down on him. He must have really wanted to reveal the truth about the wrongly used mans unfair death. No wonder he hardly ever mentioned the Wind Temple.


    If I hadnt regressed and more time passed


    If the Typhoon grew stronger, and his desire to reveal the truth grew, would he have exposed the truth? Would he have told the world that the government and police back then fabricated the incident and unfairly robbed a person of his precious life?


    He might have, yes.


    I didnt know, but from what I had seen of Jo Sunghyun, I thought it was very possible. But there was a Korean saying like this: You can sound water ten fathoms deep, but the human heart is unfathomable.


    It didnt happen in this life, and it wont happen in the future, either.


    In this timeline, Sunghyun would be able to y with a slightly less burdened heart. He had no idea, but I had inadvertently freed him of one of his lifelong sources of guilt.


    I smiled broadly.


    Is it too grandiose to say that Im correcting the past?


    It might be. I was just lucky.


    Fox Tail is dropped by a spirit-type monster called Six-Tailed Fox. Its level is in thete 20s.


    It wasnt amonly appearing monster at this point in time. Butter, the day woulde when he would find a Six-Tailed Fox. It wouldnt be that hard.


    As long as you watch out for its Doppelganger technique and talent in running away, it shouldnt be all that difficult to hunt.


    Have you already killed one before?


    Yeah. Near Mt. Inwang.


    Come to think of it, I also inadvertently saved Yeonseos mom at that time.


    I saved Yeonseos mom and also helped Sunghyun.


    It felt like my return to the past was having a good influence on the people around me.


    But it probably wont appear near Mt. Inwang again.


    Why not?


    Its an extremely shrewd monster, so it wont appear where another of its kind showed up before, much less a ce where one was killed.


    ...Thank you for the information. After thanking me, Sunghyun made up his mind. I want to be a person like you who can share that kind of information to others.


    ...That so?


    That reminded methe Typhoon Jo Sunghyun and the Great Explorer Jackson were known to be pretty close friends.


    Ive really felt and learned a lot from you.


    It was a little embarrassing, but I simply nodded, knowing that his feelings were sincere.


    I will work hard to be someone like you, hyung.


    * * *


    * * *


    Inside the taxi, Sunhwa went from dozing on her feet to dozing in the car. She was snoozing with her head on my shoulder, and I was amazed she could sleep so deeply even inside a lurching car. She was so fully out of it that she probably wouldnt even notice if someone carried her off.


    It does feel like the pieces of the past are a bit weird.


    The covering up of the Mt. Inwang serial murders, the existence of Sungshins Team Leader Kim Kangchul, and Jo Sunghyun, who hadnt been able to tell the truth.


    Something off.


    It was just my feeling. I couldnt put a finger on what exactly it was, but it felt like there was a big mistake in my understanding of something in the past.


    Though I have the feeling that Ill find out more as my ying progresses.


    By this point, I trusted my gut, my intuition. There was definitely something in the past, something I wasnt getting.


    Were here.


    We made it back home. The taxi stopped at the entrance to theplex, not going all the way into the parking lot.


    Im sleepy, oppa.


    Sunhwa seemed as sleepy as ever. She was clutching the hem of my clothes as she trailed behind me like a zombie, unable to keep her eyes open.


    Youre walking like a zombie.


    Im not a zombie. Yaaaaawn.


    Yawning widely, Sunhwa mumbled something like, Zombies look scary. I dont look scary while trudging behind me.


    Huh?


    I instantly got a feeling that something was weird. I focused my mind, then stopped in ce, turning around to put my hands on Sunhwas shoulders. I peered into her eyes. She was still half-awake, unable to open her eyes fully.


    No matter how tired she is


    From my experience of ying so far, this level of odd behavior should have been obvious. But I didnt notice it, and Eye of Perception didnt catch it, either. If I was right, I was under the influence of that.


    But at least I knew now. Thankfully, I noticed it rtively quickly. Staring into Sunhwas eyes, I asked,


    Who are you?


    At that moment, Sunhwas body started to tremble uncontrobly, convulsing bizarrely.

 Chapter 91

    Chapter 91


    Sunhwas body began to spasm, almost like she was getting electrically shocked. Her pupils looked like they were covered with a white film.


    A strange sound came from her mouth.


    Grr grrrr.


    I was well informed about this phenomenon. Called possession, it was caused by one of three possible things.


    The first was Demon Realm parasites. The second was a mind control attack from a ghost-type monster, a kind of spirit monster. The third was the aftermath from a Guardians descent.


    The Great Explorer Jackson exined it like this:


    <em>Divided even further, the causes of possession can be ssified in six different ways, but generally, we differentiate the causes in three ways. Thankfully, mankind hase up with preventative measures for each case.</em>


    Demon Realm parasites hid in the human brain, controlling the humans actions while consuming brain tissue.


    <em>An outstanding cleric yer can exterminate the parasites without much trouble. The host of the Demon Realm Bugs must immediately request the help of a cleric of at least level 50. In this respect, Koreas medical system is very well established.</em>


    If those bugs were to appear in the world right now, we wouldnt be able to do a thing about them, but I didnt think that was happening yet. I didnt see the symptoms of Demon Realm Bug affliction.


    <em>If a person is afflicted by Demon Realm Bugs, their eyes will turn pitch ck, followed by their hands and feet. They will present with simr symptoms to a Pearl Centipede affliction.</em>


    Sunhwa was making a bizarre sound that was neither groaning nor breathing roughly, just a very odd sound.


    Kghhh


    It didnt seem like she was afflicted by Demon Realm Bugs.


    <em>The method to determine whether the patient has suffered the mind control attack of a ghost monster is very simple. All you have to do is ask the possessed person a question. If they dont answer the first time, ask them multiple times.</em>


    It was like Columbus egg. The method to diagnose a ghost monster attack was hard toe up with, but once it was discovered, it was an easy thing anyone could do.


    Ill ask again. Who. Are. You?


    Kghhh psheee!


    Sunhwas body continued to convulse.


    <em>If you suspect that the possessed is afflicted by a ghost monster, all you need to do is ask them the question, Who are you? multiple times. There will definitely be a reaction. Eventually, they will answer who they are.</em>


    Who are you?


    Kghhhh!


    <em>If you ask them multiple times and they do not respond, then its almost certain that they are not afflicted by a ghost monster. The third cause is the aftermath from a Guardians descent, but</em>


    Because descent wasnt amon urrence, even Jackson could only guess what he thought might be the case.


    <em>There are times when temporary symptoms simr to possession show up due to a Guardians descent. It has only been observed a few times on a global scale, and is said to disappear naturally on its own with time.</em>


    When a descent urred, not all yers were affected by it. It wasnt like the Guardian picked someone out to control their mind; it was basically something like a side effect from a descent.


    Side effect from a descent. It affected Sunhwa and even affected me.


    As expected of a Guardians descent. That was why I hadnt noticed something being off. I really couldnt deny it if you said this was just my mistake, but I did get the feeling I was indirectly under the influence of a Guardians ability and power. My hunch was probably correct.


    In any case


    Right now, Sunhwa was suffering from a side effect.


    Side effects dont affect people the same way. Some people get them, some people dont.


    Sunhwa was just unlucky and ended up manifesting that side effect.


    Jeez, this girl.


    I put the spasming girl on my back. Her condition would settle on its own with time. I was relieved to see no one was nearby, since she would draw weird looks at the moment. I could feel her convulsing on my back.


    This is actually a good thing, I thought while moving forward. I might have gotten indirectly influenced, but its still true that I failed to notice it.


    There was something I missed other than Sunhwas condition being off, something directly rted to Sunhwa.


    Its true that Sunhwa has genius-level talent.


    She had proven that as early as the Tutorial. Sunhwa was a diamond in the rough who would shine more and more radiantly with every passing year.


    Even before all her talent tes were open, before her body was done growing, her growth speed and skills were already on par with guys like Yeonseo and Yoohyun. In terms of talent alone, she might actually outstrip them by a mile. Once she was a little older and had a more proper evaluation done, her results might cause a huge uproar.


    Its possible shell even be marked as having 67 talent tes.


    Considering the upper disy limit for Koreas talent te evaluation device was 67, it was possible she had an immeasurable level of genius. But even for such a genius, there was definitely a weakness.


    Shes mentally weak.


    She was still a kid in her teens. No matter how remarkable her talent for tanking was, her mind wasnt as strong. She couldnt be good at everything.


    Her resilience against physical attacks is ridiculous but shes weak to non-physical attacks.


    When I thought about it, it was obvious. Even with such a talent, she was a kid who had been reduced to tears of terror because of a baby Goblin.


    If ones weakness is unknown, theres not much you can do.


    But if you knew, you could cover for it. It was actually good that I knew now. Where could you find a person who was perfect in every aspect? Take the Byeon Gilsup, for instance. The man who became famous as the Spear Demon had terrible poison resistance, so he went wild buying all the poison resistance items.


    Thanks to the Ruler of the ins, I was able to grasp a simple fact that I had missed. I should actually thank them.


    Well need to invest in mental defense items. With that, shell be perfect.


    I should also have her put more points into her Willpower stat.


    Thanks to this, Ive learned something important.


    I now had a better idea on how to nurture Sunhwa.


    Mmm.


    Before I knew it, Sunhwas convulsions had subsided. The descent side effect seemed to have mostly passed. She was murmuring something to herself, and when I craned my ear to hear, they were just meaningless mumbles.


    Fried chicken.


    Hamburger.


    Pizza.


    Tteokbokki.


    Soondae.


    After listing a stream of foods, Sunhwa suddenly made a sound of utter bliss, going Hyaaa! Her sleep talking didnt end there. She screamed a Sho tashty! and then suddenly came back to her senses. I couldnt see her since she was on my back, but if I had to guess, her eyes probably flew wide open.


    Geh!


    She iled like she wanted to get down, so I simply let go.


    <em>Thud!</em>


    She flopped to the ground with a thud. For her, an impact like that wouldnt even sting. Her mind might be tofu, but her body was as sturdy as could be.


    Op-Oppa.


    Back to your senses? Remember everything?


    ...


    Sunhwas face turned beet red.


    You dont need to be that embarrassed.


    She just suffered a descent side effect, that was all. It could happen to anyone. The redness of her face had even spread to her ears.


    In a small voice, she mumbled, Im on a diet.


    ...


    What was this girl going on about now?


    I dont eat that much.


    And?


    So the things I muttered about just now Im absolutely not saying I want to eat them. Its just sleep talking. Yeah, something like sleep talking.


    The fact she could remember everything made it pretty unlikely that she was just sleep talking, but I decided not to mention that.


    I wasnt thinking about it at all.


    Youre telling the truth, right?


    That seemed to reassure her. Her summary instantly changed a little.Summary: Slight Brocon Denying their Identity


    Sunhwa spoke to me seriously, like she was trying to brainwash me.


    Im not a pig.


    ...


    Im absolutely not a pig. Seriously. Seriously.Denying their Identity


    I could see her summary all too clearly, but I didnt show it.


    Should I order fried chicken?


    Fr-Fried chicken?


    Sunhwas eyes widened like saucers, and she suddenly broke out into a blissful smile.


    Yeah, fried chicken. Want some?


    Sunhwa 0, Fried Chicken 1.Summary: Slight Brocon


    The Denying their Identity part cleanly disappeared from her summary.


    All her embarrassment forgotten, she smiled brightly as she mored, Youre going to buy two chickens, right? One per person, right? Ill be disappointed if you dont!


    * * *


    * * *


    Sunhwa was not the only one vulnerable to the allure of fried chicken.


    Weve ordered half spicy, half regr.


    ...


    Noona just stared indifferently at me. At least on the outside, the person sitting at the table didnt seem all that interested.


    Plus an extra soy sauce chicken on the house, which makes a total of three chickens, one per person.


    Noona was crazy about soy sauce chicken.


    Not interested.


    My sister experienced almost losing me once. Perhaps because of that, she was always very rmed whenever she heard about gates or dungeons appearing. The press must have made an uproar about the sh gate that appeared in the 1st yers Convention as well as the Orcanthropes, so I could only imagine how anxious she must have been again.


    But its half spicy, half regr, with a soy sauce chicken on top?


    ...


    <em>Noona, I can totally see the saliva going down your neck. Whys your hand trembling like that? </em>It appeared that the members of my house had very capricious summaries. Food might be an even stronger form of mind control than possession to them.Summary: Tsundere Tempted by Fried Chicken


    Well, Tsundere Tempted by Fried Chicken was better than Devoted Tsundere, I guess. After all, I had received plenty of my sisters devotion in my past life.


    Are you buying?


    Of course.


    Then Ill help you out and eat it this time.


    <em>So whyre yourshes quivering? Howe your lips are curling up? And why are you gulping your drool?</em>


    Is it because of Eye of Perception and Observers Eye?


    Even without activating them on purpose, I could see my sisters expression in high resolution. My vision was very different from my past life. Even if I saw the same things, I could see more, and in greater detail. From the way she was sneaking into her bedroom, she was probably nning on paying for the chicken herself.


    Is it because Ive be a yer?


    The formerly talentless me was now already in their early level 30s. I was walking shoulder to shoulder with heroes. Id have to get through level 40 to know if I was an early bloomer, but for now, anyone would say that I was speeding along.


    And now, I can even eat fried chicken like this with my sisters.


    It would have been great if my mom could have joined us, too, but she would being in an hour or two.


    Two hours, huh.


    Her return time wasnt 100% set in stone, so I was curious as to who woulde first. I called my noona and Sunhwa to the table.


    In a little bit, someone will probablye looking for me.


    Who?


    Mm, one of two possibilities. In any case, dont be too surprised, no matter who ends uping.


    I informed this tsundere older sister and tofu-mind little sister of mine in advance so they wouldnt be shocked silly.


    Just trust me and dont do anything. Okay?


    ...


    You trust me, right?


    Noona gave me a dubious stare.


    Dont worry. I didnt go out and cause a mess somewhere.


    Sunhwa, looking totally excited by the prospect of fried chicken, chirped, I trust you, oppa!


    To the current Sunhwa, I can eat chicken soon was more important than my safety or her trust in me. I could almost see the thoughts of, That doesnt matter, I wanna eat chicken soon! swimming around in her brain.


    Anyway


    I nced at the time. It was 6:40 pm. Would my mome first, or would they? While I was waiting, [!!!] marks popped up over Darongis head.


    At the same time, the doorbell rang. Someone hade to our house.


    Ah. I found myself grinning. So this is how they wanna do it, huh.


    It was amusing. With this, my course of action was also set. Perhaps because Senia was streaming me, I heard a new notice.[The Merchant of Venice is focusing on you.]


    It wasnt my mom who came first. As I expected, the people who came to our house were the police.

 Chapter 92

    Chapter 92


    <strong>Chapter 92:</strong>


    I asked over the inte, Who is it?


    The response I expected came over.


    This is the police. This is the home of Mr. Kim Hyukjin, correct?


    The police came, and I knew very well why. As they entered our apartment, Noona gave me an indifferent stare, and I tried to smile to reassure her that everything was okay.


    Noona, its okay. Dont worry and just stay put. Let me go take care of things real quick, and then we can eat fried chicken together.


    ...You really didnt cause a mess somewhere, right?


    Im telling you, I didnt. This is, well. Hm, something like a big show of force.


    ...


    Go to your room for now. Ill take care of it, dont worry.


    If youve made a mess somewhere, youre dead.


    She was looking at me with distrust, with what appeared to be a little loathing. That was what her expression said, but I knew what she was actually feeling.State: Extreme Worry


    I could see it from her state, and I could feel her true feelings through Eye of Perception as well. She was terribly worried about me. It probably meant I was just that important to her.


    In any case, I turned my attention to the police.


    We must ask you to apany us for a little bit.


    Just then, Senia appeared, her wings unfurled. My exclusive contracted Streamer exuded absolute aloofness and beauty with her very presence.


    As soon as Senia revealed herself, the two policemen flinched.


    Naturally.


    They must know what Senia was. To them, she was probably something like an unknown being who looked different from humans and could suddenly appear out of thin air, transcending time and space (though that was actually justing out of the transparent state). An almighty alien who could erase the life of one or two humans with a single swipe of her finger.


    As expected, theyre scared.


    Be it policemen or detectives, they were reduced to mere puppies with their tails tucked between their legs in front of Senia. Guns didnt even work on her, and she wasnt human, so they couldnt enforce humanws on her, either.


    Lets go then, I said, walking forward.


    What an obvious little trick.


    I was well aware of why I was being taken to the police station. It was because of assault. I strangled Kim Taechun into unconsciousness. However, I knew he hadnt made charges against me, because he must still be out of it from the aftermath of the failed descent. That meant someone else had reported me to the police, and it was because of that person that the police took action so quickly.


    Its almost ridiculous how obvious this is.


    If things dragged on too long and I ended up not being able to eat fried chicken with my chicken-tempted older sister and my chicken-loving little sister, this little scenario wouldnt go over nicely.


    Song Kiyeol.


    The second ce I would be meeting Song Kiyeol would be the police station. There, we would have an intense talk. I arrived at the station, and a little time passed.


    * * *


    There were none of the browbeating policemen Id seen on TV here.Summary: Rod of the People Experiencing Love at First SightSummary: Old Bachelor Blinded by Beauty


    Each and every summary was amusing. There was a guy who fell in love with Senia at first sight, one that was blinded by beauty, and one summary was even:Summary: Policewoman Enlightened to a New World


    The fact that her summary said policewoman instead of policeman meant that person was very conscious of their gender.


    What new world?


    From the way she was sneaking nces at Senia, she almost seemed like a pubescent teenager in love.


    Well It <em>is </em>peaceful, thats for sure.


    These people were simultaneously fearful of Senia and charmed by her beauty. Thanks to this terrifying yet awe-inspiring Intermediate Administrator, I wasnt subjected to much harassment.


    Guess Song Kiyeols n is already off the tracks from the start. I guessed his n. He probably intended on putting me in hot water, thening in to save me like a knight in shining armor.


    That way, he would hold the higher ground in any future engagements or negotiations with me. His intentions were so tantly clear. Even as the policemen interrogated me about my assault, they seemed to be waiting for someone.


    Observation is such a wonderful thing.


    I couldnt read their inner thoughts, but observation ryed a great deal of information to me. The quality and quantity of the information I received was differentpared to other people.


    I can wait until mywyeres, yes?


    Yes, feel free.


    With Senia backing me, the policemen couldnt treat me roughly anyway and they had their own intentions, so they just let me be. As a result, I was able to wait in peace.


    I whispered to Senia.


    Making me feel enough pressure before he makes a sufficiently heroic entrance shouldst about forty minutes, dont you think?


    Forty minutes?


    Yeah, it should be about forty minutes.


    After making calctions of her own, Senia began to stream using a strangenguage I couldnt understand.


    [The Merchant of Venice is watching with interest.]


    [The Whispering Devil focuses on the 40 minute time limit.]


    And to my surprise, he really did appear after forty minutes.


    Iya, fancy seeing you here, Mr. 3rd Generation Chaebol Song Kiyeol. That was easy?


    Was it because he was still inexperienced? Id felt this for a while, but I felt like I could read Song Kiyeol like an open book. In terms of gambling, my hand of cards was way better than his.


    I smiled. Youvee, mywyer.


    This was where I would make my decision. Would I move forward with the card called Song Kiyeol, or would I discard it?


    * * *


    * * *


    Sungshin was a global conglomerate. In the modern day, money was power, and Sungshinmanded immense power in Korea. He didnt publicize Kim Hyukjins existence to the media because Kim Hyukjin was a variable, and because right now, the most important fact the world had to know was that Taeguk Shield hunted the Orcanthropes, monsters invulnerable to modern weapons.


    That was what he told the media, but the whole incident left him feeling irked.


    Just what kind of guy is he?


    Kim Hyukjin. A subject of interest even to his grandfather, and a sovereign-ss yer with the incredible ability to instantly put the Orcanthropes into a groggy state.


    I dont get him at all.


    He needed to know a little more about this enigma. The mans ability was desirable. If he could turn Kim Hyukjin into a subordinate, then he would, and if he couldnt, then he really did have to establish a working rtionship. Otherwise, the man would have to be eliminated.


    For now, he decided to put Kim Hyukjin into his debt before their conversation together. He didnt release it to the mass media, but the scene where Kim Hyukjin assaulted Kim Taechun was clearly recorded from start to finish. Using that, he mobilized the police.


    Lets see if he can be that rxed even in the police station.


    His opponent was a regr person. Certain that Kim Hyukjin wouldnt be resting easy in the police station, he intentionally waited a little.


    Hell probably be anxious enough to bow and scrape.


    As a Korean, he should know how much authority and power he, Song Kiyeol, held. He truly had enough power to make a little assault charge fly away with a single word. To begin with, the police wouldnt have even gotten themselves involved in a matter between yers if Kiyeol hadnt instigated it.


    He entered the police station and was greeted with someones voice.


    Youvee, mywyer.


    To his shock, Kim Hyukjin looked incredibly rxed. Kiyeol had the bad feeling that things had gone awry from the start.


    Ah


    He saw her right away. The Intermediate Administrator, Senia. A woman possessing angelic beauty that didnt seem to belong in this world.


    Even though hes not even ying


    She appeared in the police station?


    Was that intended by Kim Hyukjin?


    Did he make Senia do as he wanted? But how could a mere yer make an Intermediate Administrator act as they wished? ording to Song Kiyeolsmon sense, that was impossible. It couldnt happen.


    He was lucky.


    That was the only way he could interpret this.


    That attitude, like he knew Id being


    Kiyeol had already lost once in a battle of wits. Even so, he was the one with the advantage. But the words that came next challenged that thought.


    Kim Taechun is in aa, yes?


    ...


    Thats because of descent. I stopped a Guardian descent that was about to happen. If that descent had actually urred Hyukjin shrugged. We wouldnt be talking here like this.


    Why?


    Both of us would be dead.


    ...


    Senia took a step forward. I, an Intermediate Administrator, confirm the veracity of that statement.


    * * *


    Song Kiyeol turned to the investigator who had been interrogating me. Would it be alright if I had a private conversation with Mr. Kim Hyukjin for a moment?


    Wow. Was that really okay? I was amazed that he suddenly requested a private meeting. The funny thing was that the private meeting was actually permitted.


    Even though hes not a policeman? Hes not even awyer.


    Well, whatever. We were taken to a room within the station.


    Just my guess, but I doubt this wont be recorded. If it is, even better.


    I started talking first. Did youe to help me?


    Yes, I did.


    Should I be saying thank you?


    That is something for you to decide.


    I sat down. Senia had returned to her transparent state, but I could feel her presence.[The Merchant of Venice continues to focus.]


    After I choked Kim Taechun and made him ck out, when I didnt see myself on the news or hear any mention of my name on the radio in the taxi, I knew for a fact that this situation would ur.


    Ill start then. I raised the index finger of my left hand. First. Theatose Kim Taechun cannot report me. Second. If so, someone else did. Third. That someone has the power to make the police move this swiftly and without dy.


    With three fingers outstretched on my left hand, I started counting on my right hand now.


    First. The appearance of the variable Kim Hyukjin was not publicized to the media. Second. The variable called Kim Hyukjin does not desire bing known to the media. Third. In the end, Kim Hyukjin was not publicized.


    I stretched out all my fingers and shrugged. What could these things mean?


    Song Kiyeols eye twitched. What are you trying to say?


    A person who can perfectly control the media, someone capable of moving government forces. Im here right now because that person wanted it.


    And you think that person is me?


    I didnt say it was you, Mr. Song Kiyeol.


    It <em>is </em>you, and everyone knows it. But I didnt say that. I simply smiled with an air of calm. After watching his reaction for a moment, I continued.


    There must be someone out there who wants to have the higher ground in a negotiation with me.


    I havee here to help you. I find your remarks very unpleasant.


    How did you know I was in the police station?


    ...


    This man seemed as lofty and unreachable as the heavens in my previous life, but now, I felt like I was dealing with a child. It was really amazing. So much had changed aftering to the past.


    The police do not like to involve themselves in matters between yers. Why? Because there are Intermediate Administrators in the middle.


    And yet they moved this rapidly?


    I would guess they had no choice even though they didnt want to. Because there was pressure from up top. I grinned. But alright, lets just say I dont know who the source of that pressure was.


    This was enough for a show of my hand. There was no need to shout Youre the criminal! outright. What I was going for was just Your scheme is dogshit!


    I also dont intend on resenting it, either.


    ...


    For the briefest moment, uncertainty shed over Song Kiyeols face. For the briefest moment, there was a trace of panic.


    Hes wavering nicely.


    This was the negotiation table. A business table between me and this 3rd generation chaebol scion, a man whose name would fly high as the guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, but would still lose the battle of inheritance to his younger sister, Song Junghye.


    After all, it was a pretty decent choice using the cards that could pressure me.


    <em>If </em>I were a moron who didnt know anything, that is. But I didnt say that. In business, everything was calcted on profit and loss alone. For a moment, Song Kiyeol made an expression of uncertainty before quickly schooling his countenance into expressionlessness.


    It was just that those cards were ineffective on me.


    My cards were just a little better than his. My field of vision was a little wider than his, that was all.


    I hadpletely seized the initiative.


    Shall we start our conversation? There must be a lot you want to ask. Id like this to be a useful time for me, no for us.


    To be more precise, my test for Song Kiyeol began.

 Chapter 93

    Chapter 93


    In a single patient general hospital room, Byeon Gilsup perched on a chair. His gaze moved to the bed.


    Haah, this absolute dunce.


    For some reason, Kim Taechun had turned monster-like and then was quickly dispatched. And via a back choke, no less. Abat ss yer letting a nonbat ss grab them by the back of the neck? That wasnt just a disgrace. It was utterly humiliating.


    If it were me, I woulda just bit my tongue and ended it.


    Gilsup was only here because the Guildmaster, a freaking 3rd generation chaebol<em>, </em>told him to keep a good eye on this guy.


    How can you call yourself abat ss with shit skills like that? You might as well eat shit, dude.


    Byeon Gilsup had watched Kim Taechun and Kim Hyukjins fight on the 12th floor earlier. He was one of the people who were able to read Hyukjins movements.


    Its cause you were so fucking slow that you got mmed by a nonbat ss, idiot.


    He sighed like he was frustrated. He was confident that if it had been him, he wouldnt have lost so pathetically.


    Bro, you gotta just loosen up there, and then move fast like whoosh and go wham wham! Like this, dude! Gah, so frustrating. Just like me, wham! Wham! Like this.


    He was sure that if it were him, he could have easily taken Hyukjin down. He believed in his spearmanship.


    All that weight you had on him, wasted. The heck was that? And when are you gonna wake the hell up? How long do I have to stay here babysitting your ass?


    He clicked his tongue as he continued to cuss out the unconscious Kim Taechun, calling the man an idiot to top all idiots.


    But just then, someone came into the hospital room.


    Thank ya.


    It was a white-haired grandma. Her face was full of lines that showed the passage of many years. She grabbed Gilsups hand, looking quiteposed.


    Thank ya, sonny. Thank ya for savin our Taechun. Thank ya so much.


    When she bent 90 degrees, Gilsup hurried to bend 100 degrees with extreme crity.


    Goodness, its nothing, granny. This fellow fought really courageously and well. We were able to clear the sh gate because of him, too. He is a hidden hero.


    The Gilpsup who had been cussing out Taechun moments ago was nowhere to be seen. He gazed warmly at the grandmas hands grabbing his and spoke with a very sincere attitude.


    I owe my life to his efforts, granny. Dont worry too much. Hell get up soon. Our Taeguk Shield will do its best for his recovery. And you dont have to worry about the hospital fee.


    They spoke for a while. After some time, Gilsups face turned bright red.


    She wasnt his granny, but his mom?


    He had called a mom a granny. That was no different from telling her you look really fucking old. Cold sweat ran down his back. Today was a really tough day.


    I-I would be an even bigger piece of shit if I apologized now, right?


    The man who would one day be famous as the Spear Demon was forced to undergo a very difficult night.


    * * *


    At around the same time as when Byeon Gilsup was undergoing hardship, Kim Hyukjin and Song Kiyeol were conversing.


    Shall we start our conversation? There must be a lot you want to ask. Id like this to be a useful time for me, no for us.


    Kiyeol definitely heard it. That for me, no for us.


    A slip of the tongue? Had Hyukjin unintentionally misspoken? No. It wasnt a mistake.


    When he arrived at the police station, he was forced topletely renew his evaluation of Kim Hyukjin. He had devised this situation, but it actually felt like he was the one getting yed like a fiddle.


    A trick to unsettle me. Or to sound me out.


    He was sure of it.


    Oh right, said Hyukjin. I should remind you that this is, of course, being streamed. She is transparent right now, but Senia is transmitting this footage to the Guardians.


    The Guardians were watching. It was a veiled warning not to do anything foolish. That was how Kiyeol heard it.


    Kim Hyukjin looked extremely rxed. I thought there was a lot you wanted to know about me. We have time, so Ill answer all your questions. Please, ask away.


    Kiyeol nodded. For now, it was true that he was getting pushed back. He had also lost the initiative. However, since he could have his questions answered, the situation wasnt <em>that</em> terrible.


    First of all, I need an exnation about the sovereign ss.


    Hyukjin gave him a simple exnation. It was a ss that allotted roles based on every yers ability and maximized their skills and efficiency.


    Thats the kind of ss it is.


    You acted as if you knew that I woulde to the police station. Are you a Precognitive Dream user?


    Hyukjin shrugged. I have a simr ability.


    Ah


    Taeguk Shield also had a Precognitive Dream user. Hyukjin grinned, saying, Taeguk Shield has a person like that too, right? Someone with Precognitive Dream.


    That is a secret.


    I saw through Guildmaster Song Kiyeols Eye of Truth. Do you think I wouldnt know about a Precognitive Dream user?


    What?


    It might even be that you were tardy to the yers Convention because of them.


    You are overthinking it.


    Shall I try guessing the name of the Precognitive Dream user?


    That person is Ham Sohyun, right? He didnt say that.


    ...


    Kiyeol flinched. For a very brief moment, he felt a chill. It was almost as if everything about him and Taeguk Shield was being observed. It was actually more scary that the name Ham Sohyun was left unsaid. It felt like Hyukjin didnt say it on purpose.


    Is it a trick?


    It was difficult to guess how much this man knew and how much of what he said was the truth. That made this conversation all the more confusing and difficult. This 20-year-old youth in front of him almost made him feel like he was talking to his grandfather.


    Im joking. Even for me, I cant know things in such detail.


    ...


    You are more timid than I expected.


    He kept feeling like he was ensnared in Hyukjins web. Kiyeol pulled himself together and moved to the next question.


    How did you suppress the Orcs?


    I wasnt the one who suppressed them, but Taeguk Shield.


    Allow me to rephrase the question. How did you put them into a groggy state?


    It is one of my special skills.


    That was a lie. Hyukjin was only able to use the Spell of Submission because the Whispering Devil had helped him. However, he didnt show all his cards truthfully.


    He made an idle remark. You cant try to uncover all my trade secrets. There has to be give and take. I will only say that it is one of my special skills.


    ...


    * * *


    * * *


    Kiyeol continued with what he considered a trump question. I heard that you treated my youngest sibling almost threateningly. From what I hear, you even wrapped up our grandfather in your denouncement.


    Ah. Is that how it was told?


    The truth was the truth. There was no use in talking to the underlings. Hyukjin had dealt a direct blow to the grandson so that his message would reach President Song Kiyoung without a filter.


    That wasnt what I meant.


    You seem to be confident you can deal with the aftermath.


    The aftermath?


    Sitting with his legs crossed, Hyukjin looked insively Song Kiyeol. The Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield still had a long way to go. That was why he wouldter lose to the second oldest grandchild, Song Junghye.


    Do you think that President Song would have sent his beloved grandson to me without any reason whatsoever?


    ...


    Kiyeol had a weird feeling. It felt like Kim Hyukjin knew his grandfather very well. Something was weird. It was like Hyukjin knew his grandfather better than he did. For now, he decided to listen.


    Whats more, an ordinary little kid who holds no position in thepany and no responsibilities?


    Thats because Jinchul was insisting so much


    He is not the kind of person who would simply give in to his youngest grandsons begging. He only makes it <em>seem </em>like that. That, too, must be an intentional part of his act.


    It was likely true that he did love his youngest grandson. Jinchul was a grandson he received in his old age. There was no doubt that he had a special fondness for the boy. But not to the point of being unable to separate personal matters from business.


    Try to see through the Presidents intent. He wasnt just convinced by a kids cute tricks. He wanted to see how I would handle Song Jinchul. Adding to that, Im sure his desire to hear about the situation without a filter was part and parcel. I merely acted in ordance with what he wanted. There was no aftermath to consider in the first ce.


    Song Kiyeols body flinched almost imperceptibly. The new perspective Hyukjin showed him gave him a slight shock.


    ...You speak as if you know our president very well, he barely managed. Though as far as I know, you have only met him once.


    There are things you only need to see once to figure out.


    Hyukjin simply fixed Kiyeol with a leveled look. It was a very small clue, but he didnt miss it.


    He called him president instead of grandfather?


    It seemed this grandson felt a certain level of distance from his grandfather. After a slight pause, Hyukjin continued staring at Kiyeol.


    In other words Do you think that President Song wouldnt know that youvee to see me?


    He didnt spell it out. If Kiyeol could realize that on his own, Hyukjin nned on cooperating with him, to a certain extent. To be more precise, he would move forward with bringing the guild under Song Kiyeols leadership, Taeguk Shield, under him.


    He has to realize at least that much to have the qualifications of a business partner.


    If he was so clueless he couldnt figure this much out, there was no need to work with him. Hyukjin would discard him without reserve. It was because of Song Kiyeols wealth and power, as well as his character that was considered quite decent even in the future, that Hyukjin gave him a chance. Kiyeol had to be a much better choice than the Blood and Iron Witch Song Junghye.


    Well, hes a 3rd gen chaebol, after all.


    He had things Hyukjin didnt have. Song Kiyeol and Taeguk Shield had ess to nearly unlimited wealth and power. If they used each other and gave each other what was owed, then they would be able to establish a win-win rtionship.


    Thankfully, Song Kiyeol wasnt a fool.


    Ah


    He understood Hyukjins words and actions. If his grandfather had observed a situation involving Hyukjin via his youngest brother, then what about now?


    Grandfather is watching me, too.


    It was very simple, but it enlightened him. Actually, Kiyeols main interest wasnt really Taeguk Shield. Taeguk Shield was merely a tool and a stepping stone to solidify his position in the session battle. His true goal was to be acknowledged by his grandfather and ascend to the position of the next president.


    This wasnt me testing Kim Hyukjin, but Grandfather testing me.


    Hyukjin read that thought. It seems that we canmunicate more properly now.


    ...


    I would guess that the way the President sees you will be affected by the result of your negotiation with me and how your conversation with me progresses.


    Song Kiyeol earnestly asked, I apologize, but are you really 20?


    Yes. Would you like to see my ID card?


    No, theres no need for that.


    How could a 20-year-old act like this? From his actions and speech, it would be believable if someone said Hyukjin was a 60-year-old man who had experienced the vicissitudes of life.


    Kiyeol decided not to go around in circles. Hyukjin already knew exactly what the opposite party wanted and was aiming for, and was acting ordingly. Kiyeol understood perfectly well that Hyukjin was a level higher than him.


    Im not the fiddler in this situation.


    He came totally convinced he was the fiddler, but he was actually the fiddle. If so, going around in circles was meaningless. He decided to advance directly.


    What do you want?


    $100k per member of our team. And all the items that were dropped earlier.


    I have already promised you that. I will prepare it immediately. Useless oil items also came out, but do you want those as well?


    I believe I asked for everything, did I not?


    Understood. I will give you everything.


    He didnt linger on that. Kiyeol already knew their basic personal details. Kim Hyukjin, Kim Sunhwa, So Yoohyun, Choi Sung-gu, Shin Yeonseo, Jo Sunghyun. A total of six people.


    $600k.


    It was that much money. Song Kiyeol could easily handle that much on his own.


    He inquired again, Beyond that, I am asking what you want in exchange for maintaining a cooperative rtionship between my Taeguk Shield and your team.


    Only then did Hyukjin sh him a smile of satisfaction. It seems we can get to the true matter at hand.


    As expected of the Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, Song Kiyeol was still one of the people who wasnt eliminated in the future and continued to push forward on the front lines as the leader of one of the worlds pre-eminent guilds. He did lose to his younger sister, but he wasnt a total idiot. No, in all actuality, Song Kiyeol belonged to the elite upper group.


    It was just a little interesting that the person leading such an elite by the nose was Kim Hyukjin.

 Chapter 94

    Chapter 94


    Once a celebrity took off, they could rake in an enormous amount of wealth and fame. In exchange, they had to give up on their private life. Wealth and fame vs. private life. Where there was light, there was shadow. Only by being popr in the media could you acquire wealth and fame, and in the process, you ended up forfeiting most of your private life and freedom. You win some, you lose some.


    ...So basically, Taeguk Shield can take all the fame and glory. I dont need that kind of thing.


    My eyes were solely on the practical gains. I didnt need the troublesome interest of the public. But I still wanted the benefits that came with such fame. Normally, that would be impossible, but not if I worked with Taeguk Shield.


    Might as well pick out only the good stuff, right? The method where I could have my cake and eat it too was to put Taeguk Shield in the front and operate in the back.


    So you want to put Taeguk Shield on the outside and take the actual profits?


    <em>Thats right, bullseye.</em>


    Of course, my teammates will do their best to cooperate with Taeguk Shield. We can meetter to decide the particrs.


    How favorable would those particrs be? That would be an enjoyable conundrum.


    Its win-win for us both. I would put Taeguk Shield on the outside and get the practical benefits. Taeguk Shield would get our help and gain the fame and power the guild always wanted.


    They would be the heroes of Korea. That had always been Sungshins true aim with Taeguk Shield. The guilds sess would have an enormous effect on improving Sungshins image.


    Through that, Guildmaster Song Kiyeol would take a big step forward in the fight for session.


    ...


    You would be able to win the high ground in yourpetition with your particrly strongpetitor, your second-oldest sibling.


    Youve even seen through that much?


    Song Kiyeol must have never imagined that he would have such a conversation with an ordinary person, and in the police station, no less.


    I dont intend on bing a guild member of Taeguk Shield, but I will think of your guild as an ally of the highest priority.


    ...


    Kiyeol hadpletely lost the initiative to me. If that was enough to bruise his pride, then he wouldnt develop any further. He would only grow if he viewed this situation as a learning experience and got something out of it.


    What will you do?


    I would be happy to see him ask the one question that really hit bullseye. Just why did you insist on Taeguk Shield? With this much insight, you could have gotten another partner. Is it really only because you dislike the publics interest and find it troublesome? Its a little difficult to understand if that is your only reasoning. If he sent me such an appropriate line of questioning, I would give Song Kiyeol a few more brownie points.


    I have one question.


    Fire away.


    Is that really all you want? A simple cooperative rtionship? Judging by the current situation, you have already seen through us. You have far more information than we do and have the skills to stand in a far more dominant position.


    Your assessment is sound.


    Yes, that was exactly right. Then theres a question you need to ask me, isnt there? I gave him some more time.


    But is it really because you dislike the publics interest? Currently, I find it a little difficult to understand why you are refusing fame and glory.


    Good, well done. It was a pretty good question. I decided to reward him with a little more information.


    That is in part rted to my ss. The one I have a contract with does not like to see me acting in the front.


    Actually, the Nameless Guardian didnt particrly prohibit me from doing so. They simply observed in silence. Even so, this kind of gesture was necessary. All things considered, my Guardian was my biggest customer, my VVIP. It was good to show at least this much goodwill.


    And its an exnation that can convince him.


    After some time, his summary changed.


    Summary: Enlightened 3rd Generation Chaebol


    He still had a long way to go. He needed to be an enlightened Guildmaster, not an enlightened 3rd Generation Chaebol.


    Well, hes still a beginner.


    He had performed well enough to deserve some leniency.


    Will you agree to a cooperative rtionship of the highest priority? I asked. Of course, it would be a verbal agreement for now. Well have to discuss the particrster.


    A spoken contract was nonbinding. Naturally, there had to be a written contract. I was saying this to see Song Kiyeols guts and willingness to cooperate.


    In this situation, where I was the superior and he was the inferior, it might very well be a bold move for him to decisively ept a contract with me without concrete uses. No, it was definitely a bold movehe didnt know what exactly I would demand.


    Well then. What will you do?


    He had barely scraped by in my test. All things considered, Taeguk Shields Song Kiyeol was still way better than the Blood and Iron Queen.


    Queen sounded nice, but she was actually more often called Witch. It was my personal judgment that working with Song Kiyeol was much better than working with Song Junghye, the woman who had wielded nearly absolute power after President Song Kiyoung passed away. I didnt know what kind of influence this decision would have on the future, but in any case, it was far more favorable for me.


    Answer me.


    I gave the inferior party more time. Shortly afterwards, Song Kiyeol gave me his response.


    I agree. He continued calmly, Though I do get the feeling that I was dragged along by you the whole day.


    At least he knew.


    It was a very educational day.


    He seemed more humble than how I had judged him to be when I first saw him on the 12th floor.


    Next time, I will look a little more broadly and seize the initiative from you, Mr. Kim Hyukjin.


    Thats exactly what I want.


    Thats right. You, the Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, need to be a little more smart and wily so that I, your partner, can have an easier time.


    With a slightly more rxed expression, Song Kiyeol said, Shall we leave, then? I have already arranged to have you escorted back infort to your home.


    Thank you.


    I was thankful, but I wasnt done talking yet.


    If I were you, Guildmaster Song Kiyeol, I would have made a different proposal.


    I decided to give Song Kiyeol, a man considered to be rtively kind and honest for a 3rd generation chaebol, a little tip.


    ...Pardon?


    The President aside, isnt it true that both Guildmaster Song Kiyeol and the other members of Taeguk Shield still do not know much about me?


    Thats true, but


    He knew that I had choked Kim Taechun to unconsciousness, put the Orcanthropes into a groggy state, and had a sovereign ss.


    Im sure the yers of Taeguk Shield are particrly skilled people.


    That was a no-brainer, since each of them had been carefully selected.


    So how do you intend on exining to them that Taeguk Shield and I have established a tight knit cooperative rtionship? Do you think you can convince them? To them, I am an unknown yer who never even gave a proper exnation of how I subdued the Orcanthropes.


    ...


    The higher ones skill, the more likely it was that they had strong pride. Knowing that very well, I gave the Guildmaster another push.


    There are definitely yers from Taeguk Shield who were able to read my movements. If so There must be yers who boasted that they could beat me.


    ...


    State: Awed / Surprised / Slight Fear


    I could tell from his state. I had clearly hit the bullseye with a single prod. I decided to prod a little more.


    For example, the yer wielding the spear. Or the yer who uses poison.


    You simply continue to surprise me.


    In the end, Song Kiyeol acknowledged everything I said, which was far better than not acknowledging the truth of my words and feigning ignorance. I decided to throw him another tip.


    If you are unable to seize full control of Taeguk Shield, your grandfather will be disappointed.


    That was actually Song Kiyeols biggest immediate issue, the issue he had to settle before all else. He had to first turn Taeguk Shield into his loyal hands and feet. Only then would he be acknowledged by his grandfather and have a favorable position in the future fight for session.


    I truly cannot believe you are really 20.


    There was nothing he could do even if he didnt believe it. I, too, had no idea that I was this capable. I thought I was an idiot because I kept failing the civil service exam, but looking at it now, that didnt seem to be true. I surprised myself.


    I scratched his itch a little more.


    To prevent the Guildmaster from being in an awkward spot, I will dly ept a test.


    ...What?


    He really needed me to hold his hand from start to finish, huh. There was a lot to teach him.


    If I were you, I would have proposed a test.


    ...


    Soe on, say it with your own mouth. That way, you can look more justified in front of your guild members, right? Ill do you a solid and simply ept.


    I spelled it out more concretely. For example something like a PVP.


    A PVP? But you are


    Thats right, I am a nonbat ss. My specialty isntbat. So in other words What kind of influence do you think a sovereign ss yer who could win against abat ss yer would have in their specialty field?


    Was that enough for him to finally get it?


    If I were to tell you I could even prove my ying abilities as a sovereign, what would you do?


    I would prove my outstanding abilities my own way, and Song Kiyeol would prove his discernment his own way.


    And what do you think the evaluation would be of the Guildmaster who was the first to recognize and actively approach the yer who proved his abilities?


    After a short moment, Song Kiyeol spoke with a serious expression. Please allow me to test you. The test will be a PVP match. As for your opponent, I will choose a yer from Taeguk Shield and inform you at ater time.


    While saying that, he snuck nces at me like he was scared I might be displeased or offended.


    Of course not. You did well. This is how you do it. Keep going like this in the future. You finally seem more like the Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield. Youve gotta do well so that Ill wanna cooperate again with you in the future, dude.


    I ept the test.


    Thank you.


    It would be best if you were to bring up a reasonable proposal like this first next time.


    ...


    For the briefest moment, Song Kiyeols eye twitched.


    ...I will keep that in mind.


    He wasnt simply unhappy. His summary changed.


    Summary: 3rd Generation Chaebol who Met his Teacher


    That was a pretty decent change, wasnt it?


    * * *


    * * *


    One day passed. My opponent would be the future Spear Demon, Byeon Gilsup. It went without being said that the Guardians were also told about the PVP match. It was one of the types of content they went wild for.


    PVP, huh.


    A PVP against the Spear Demon. Rather than nervousness, I felt excitement.


    It should be fun.


    The day of the match was just around the corner. It would happen tomorrow.


    A simple frontal duel would be a bit risky.


    I didnt think I would be defeated even in a frontal battle, but I wouldnt be able to show an overwhelming difference in skill. The opponent was the future Spear Demon. He would be a far stronger PVPer than the Brown Bear Kim Taechun.


    I have to show them an overwhelming difference in skill.


    Then, Guildmaster Song Kiyeol would have a justification, and he would be able to show his grandfather that his discernment was correct. And considering the days of cooperation ahead of us, it was best to show overwhelming strength. Even better if I could prove my entire partys strength, not just my own.


    Then I guess thats the method Ill have to use.


    There was a method that would allow me, a nonbat ss yer, to win against thebat ss yer Byeon Gilsup with an overwhelming difference in skill, and that method wasnt far away.


    Time to get overgeared.

 Chapter 95

    Chapter 95


    <strong>Chapter 95:</strong>


    There was a saying that went like this: Know thy enemy and know thyself. If you know your enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles.


    I already knew a lot about the Spear Demon Byeon Gilsup. It was believed that even Shin Yeonseo, one of the strongest Korean PVPers, had to be on her toes when PVPing with Byeon Gilsup.


    Only a tiny few think so, but there were people who put Byeon Gilsup above her.


    In PVP, a match between yers, there were countless variables. The battle could go a million different ways depending on how you utilized your opponents weakness, timing, how quickly you could read your opponents n, the element and terrain of the field you were fighting on, how your condition was that day, etc. There were countless variables, and you couldnt always win. That was the reason why Shin Yeonseo wasnt called the strongest Korean PVPer, but one of the strongest Korean PVPers.


    Because victory or loss is decided by many variables and your luck.


    At least for this match, I could control those variables and create my luck. To start, I got an item from Sunghyun.


    [Wind Shoes +1]


    Shoes imbued with the blessing of wind. Dramatically increases ones affinity with the wind element, bestowing a synergistic effect when using wind attribute foot techniques or movement skills. However, a full pair of two shoes must be worn for that function to apply.


    Attribute: Wind


    Agility +2


    Grade: Rare


    Level Restriction: 25


    Special Skill: Can use Imaginary Running Start


    Equip Restriction: Wind-attribute ss


    If I used the special skill imbued in the Wind Shoes, Id be able to fight a slightly more favorable ranged battle.


    Sunghyun asked, Hyung. Um You just equipped the Wind Shoes, right?


    Yeah. I did, just now.


    ...


    He had an expression of extreme dubiousness that I didnt quite get. After a moment, he seemed convinced of something.


    Why do you ask?


    I wasnt sure, but you really can equip them after all.


    I quickly understood what Sunghyun meant.


    Come to think of it


    Even I had to admit it was a little bewildering. My eyes were drawn to one part of the item description.Equip Restriction: Wind-attribute ss


    It was clearly written in ck and white that only a wind-attribute ss could equip them, so how was it that I could wear the shoes? One conjecture I coulde up with was that the Observer ss was a higher grade ss with a bigger scope, and the wind-attribute fell under its umbre.


    The sovereign ss seems to be a ss that includes a great number of things.


    Mm.


    To be precise, it wasnt sovereign, but Observer


    If you think about it, maybe you can equip them because you have a kind of null-attribute ss.


    Maybe.


    His words had some sense to them. Even I didnt know everything about the Observer ss. It was indeed possible that it had an attribute that took precedence over all other attributes. To borrow Sunghyuns turn of phrase, a null-attribute.


    Even then, its a little hard to ept.


    ...


    It was the same for me. I couldnt quite wrap my head around it, either. I just went to put them on, and they were on. Since I couldnt say that, I just kept my mouth shut.


    Im sure that you have a secret of your own.


    Sunghyun actually seemed uplifted by this revtion. His eyes were filled with a sort of longing? The look was a little too intense for me, so I slightly averted my gaze.


    Lets just inspect the items.


    I also checked the new Great Orc Warrior item I got this time. Id added the Great Orc Warriors Gloves to the set via the bet with the Herdsman of Las Vegas.Partial Set Effect: Defends against a physical attack the wearer cannot handle, limited to once per day. However, the attackers level must not exceed level 35. If their level exceeds 35, a damage reduction effect will be triggered depending on the attacks power.


    With the addition of the Great Orc Warriors Gloves to the partial set, the upper level limit for theplete nullification effect went up from 30 to 35.


    Byeon Gilsups level 30.


    I would be able to nullify at least one attack from him. So it was time to go to the next item.


    * * *


    * * *


    After parting with Sunghyun, I met up with Yeonseo next. We picked a coffee shop in Yeonnam-dong, a neighborhood in Seoul.


    She looks cute in casual clothes.


    In her casual clothes, she looked like any university student and gave off a refreshing, even lively, appearance. Maybe because I was thirty on the inside, I saw her as cute rather than pretty.


    Sitting on the other side of the table, Yeonseo gave me a smile that reached her eyes.


    What the, is this a date? Have you finally decided to see me as a woman?


    ...


    This smile had consigned countless men to the fate of Sword Empress crushers, but it didnt make me think much. Just oh, shes cute.


    Of course, I hadnt called her to have a date.


    Lend me your sword once.


    My sword? Yeonseo seemed troubled for a bit. Im not sure I can lend it to you.


    It was probably an artifact bestowed by the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain. Since this was the early game, it would be nothingpared to the Demonde Asura she would use in the future, but it would still have the highest attack power out of all the sword items I could get my hands on right now.


    The swords name was Asura.


    The future Sword Empress beloved sword, Asura.


    Asura was the king of the Asura Realm, also called the World of Chaos. It also meant he was the king of ghosts. That was why Asura was sometimes called a ghostde, sometimes a demonde. It was an artifact of the highest level that had even won the title Sword Among Swords.


    I remember the way Shin Yeonseo looked when she swept through the Battle of the Maldives.


    The video documenting Shin Yeonseos performance had set a huge new Youtube record of half a billion views. In any case, considering there were less than ten artifacts deserving the name Sword Among Swords in the entire world before I regressed, Asura was a named de that ranked within the global Top 10, at least in the sword category.


    After a long moment of intense contemtion, Yeonseo opened her mouth.


    If I let you borrow this, will you go on a date with me?


    It seemed I needed to make things clear to her. Yeonseo was obviously a pretty woman, but she wasnt my type. I didnt know why. I just couldnt see her as a woman.


    Im sorry, but youre not my type.


    But will you go on a date with me though?


    I said youre not my type?


    Yeonseos smile actually widened. I told her she wasnt my type, so why was she even happier?


    Do you always only wear clothes that are your type, eat food thats your type, and watch movies that are your type? You dont.


    Her summary changed.Summary: Woman zing with Determination


    The dreaded wife disappeared and a new keyworddeterminationwas formed. Even swordswoman disappeared, reced by woman. At least in this moment, she wasnt the Swordswoman Shin Yeonseo, but the woman Shin Yeonseo.


    Determination?


    She smiled brightly at me.


    My mum says that there isnt a tree out there that wont go down after ten swings. She balled her hands into fists, pumping herself up. If you dont go down after ten swings, Ill give up 100%. How about it?


    ...


    No matter how I looked at her, she seemed serious.


    Just lend me your sword.


    Youve promised me a date, okay?


    Yeonseo lent me her sword. When I took a look at it, my mouth dropped wide open.


    Oi. Whats this?


    What do you mean, whats this? I thought you wanted to borrow it? The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain also gave permission.


    The Shin Yeonseo who once rejoiced over a Quality Iron Sword was long gone.


    She had this? I almost ended up rubbing my eyes in disbelief. Why does she already have Asura?


    It looked very different from the Asura I remembered. I opened up the item description.


    [Asura - Growth-Type - Fully Sealed]


    The named de the Heavenly Demon has bestowed upon his chosen sessor.


    A legendary weapon made by smelting the Heavenly Demons Vital Ki / Heavenly Demonic Mountains Spirit Ki / Magic Pearl of a Dragon.


    Grade: Transcendent


    Attack power: 40-63 (currently sealed)


    Additional effects:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


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    Special note: In a fully sealed state. Not all of its strength can be drawn upon.


    A fully sealed state. That was why the majority of its additional effects were disabled. On top of that, it was a growth item.


    I see now, Asura was a growth item.


    The more Yeonseo grew, the stronger this artifact would be. It was even transcendent grade. There were rumors that the transcendent existed and the top Rankers were equipped with those transcendent items, but it was my first time confirming it with my own eyes.


    Transcendent items really do exist.


    It was said that the top Rankers had a world of their own, the so-called World Above. A world that ordinary people didnt know about and could never hope to reach. It seemed that was really true. But seriously, why did an item of a grade this ridiculous even exist in the early game? There were <em>eight</em> frickin additional effects currently shown.


    Even though most of the effects are disabled and the attack power is also greatly weakened


    Even despite that, it was an extremely outstanding item. Of the items in my possession, the one with the highest attack power was Mandras Greatsword. Considering that Mandras Greatsword had 18-22 attack power, you could say this was one hell of a sword.


    What a jackpot.


    My n to get overgeared and give myself the item halo was going way better than I thought.


    * * *


    The formal name was the DMC Lucentia Tower, but it was normally called the yer Center. Even the taxi drivers didnt know where Lucentia Tower was, but they knew the yer Center.


    In any case, I headed to the yers Association with my party, the yer Center where the first convention had been held on the 12th floor. A space for PVPing had been arranged on the roof.


    I found the choice of location mind-boggling.


    They really have no fucking clue.


    It didnt matter now because we were in the beginner period, but once we got into the mid-game, indoor PVP was extremely dangerous. One misstep, and there could be significant damage to the building. Normally, PVP was done in specially made fields or in open areas like clearings.


    The yers could even fall off.


    This misinformed choice was made because the concept of PVP still wasnt full-fledged. Anyway, our PVP today would be private, by my request.


    No need to make Taeguk Shields smackdown public.


    Taeguk Shield needed to be heroes in the minds of the people. In light of our partnership, I wanted to protect their image. However, the other party seemed to have a different understanding of my request.


    A woman in tight-fitting ck clothes that revealed every curve of her beautiful body with long, flowing, ck hair that contrasted sharply with a snow-white face was sneering at us. Her name was Cheon Sooji.


    Poison Witch. Cheon Sooji.State: Ridicule / Slight Contempt / Desire to Win


    There was another Taeguk Shield guild member standing next to her, a considerably handsome man with dyed blond hair. This man, who I remembered as having quite a lot of female fans but also many scandals, was named Gong Jinhoon. Nickname, Golden Priest.State: Regret / Pity / Slight Expectation


    They were staring at me with ridicule or regret. Most of the seven Taeguk Shield guild members here were the same.


    The reason why I asked for a private PVP was to save Byeon Gilsups face, not mine.


    They were clearly misunderstanding my intent. It seemed they thought that I feared my immediate and pathetic destruction and therefore asked for a private PVP.


    The Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield and I shared a simple greeting.


    Song Kiyeols gaze is strangely shifting to Cheon Sooji.


    It was impossible to tell with the physical eye. I couldnt really put it in words, but his invisible gaze, his attention, was on Cheon Sooji.


    I could guess the reason without much difficulty.


    My first opponent wont be Gilsup, but Sooji.


    The Poison Witch Cheon Sooji. By the looks of it, this woman was going to try a little trick on me, in a way that couldnt quite be called a PVP. She probably had a trifling scheme up her sleeve. I smiled readily.


    Thats right, this is what you should do. You should try every little trick in your book. Only then will you be qualified to work with me.


    I waited a little, and sure enough, Cheon Sooji came up to me. I would be able to gain at least one thing from her approach, a thing that would be very useful in the Plum Blossom Gate, the Centipede Cave.


    Sooji had an item that I had to acquire before we went into the Centipede Cave.


    The first step begins now.

 Chapter 96

    Chapter 96


    <strong>Chapter 96:</strong>


    I took a look at Cheon Sooji.


    [yer]


    Name: Cheon Sooji


    Age: 27


    Level: 29


    ss: Poison Shaman


    Guardian: Soundless Serpens


    Innate ability: [Lustvenom Finger]


    State: Ridicule / Slight Contempt / Desire to Win


    Disposition: Sadistic / Erotic / Queen


    Summary: Queen Chasing Strength<ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    The disposition/state/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    In the three months while I was in the special hidden piece, most of the top yers hit level 30. Actually, leveling up to 30 was rtively easy. It was just that there were a ton of yers who werent able to push through the Hell Phase that was level 30 to 40 and fell apart after reaching the limits of their talent.


    In any case, level 29 at this point in time puts her at the top.


    Her Guardian was the Soundless Serpens. Not much was known about them other than their exclusive sponsorship of Cheon Sooji. They only rarely sent the Guardian is interested or Guardian is watching notices that were somon.


    Mr. Kim Hyukjin. Theres something Id like to ask before the PVP match.


    Feel free.


    Song Kiyeol smoothly stepped aside, like he and Cheon Sooji had arranged this ahead of time. She asked, Why did you ask specifically for a private PVP? This would be a good opportunity to be famous.


    She looked me up and down. Her eyes narrowed almost imperceptibly, almost like she had found a tasty piece of meat. The look in her eyes was strangely provocative, the kind of ambiguous gaze that made a mans heart thump.


    I didnt really want to publicize it.


    I didnt want to show the world how their teammy business partnerwas crushed by a nonbat ss yer.


    It seems you already know it will be a <em>thorough </em>thrashing.


    Yes.


    Not me, but him. Byeon Gilsup was the one who would get thrashed.


    Are you a masochist by nature? Whatpelled a nonbat ss to go into a PVP with abat ss, and one from Taeguk Shield, no less?


    ...


    I admire your courage and backbone. Its the sort of look I like to see.


    Cheon Sooji licked her red lips. Combined with the look in her eyes, she exuded an extremely ambiguous feel. It was like she was seduction made manifest.


    Clearly, Cheon Sooji was well aware of her strengths. She seemed very well-versed in how she should act to look ttering, what kind of look she should produce to arouse her opponent, and how to use her appearance to her advantage.


    She extended a hand as snow white as her face with natural grace.


    Make a promise with me.


    What kind of promise?


    If you lose to my teammate Gilsup,e drink with me once. At night. Just the two of us.


    ...


    Reckless guys like you are my type, you see.


    But her state of ridicule and contempt exposed her too much for me to believe that. I looked at her extended pinky. Her little scheme was obvious to my eyes.


    Innate ability, Lustvenom Finger.


    Her innate ability hadnt been revealed even in the future, but I was able to see it with Observers Eye.


    Shes got an amusing ability.


    Lustvenom Finger.


    A finger that inflicts lust poison.


    Eye of Perception had long since shown me the name of her ability, and Observers Eye traced the flow of mana in her body. I saw energy flowing towards her fingers. One part of her mana was gathered in her fingers, one part near her heart, and another part in her eyes.


    I was almost certain I knew what she was up to.


    She wants to work me up before the PVP, I guess.


    It was hard to tell how effective Soojis current level of innate ability would be on me, but I guessed it would only cause a little eleration in my heartbeat or breathing, at most.


    But even just that could easily have a big influence on the PVP match.


    So what should I do? What would the Guardians like to see me do? What kind of y should I show them? I thought for a moment.


    Cheon Sooji stared openly at me with her white face and eyes of seduction that radiated the pheromones of the opposite sex.


    You wont promise me?


    At the same time, my Eye of Perception perceived something.


    [Eye of Perception perceives a seductive energy.]


    [Eye of Perception is higher in grade than the seductive energy.]


    [Eye of Perceptionpletely destroys the seductive energy.]


    It went beyond simple destruction.


    [The grade difference between Eye of Perception and the seductive energy has been evaluated as ''very high''.]


    Oho. Id never heard a notice like that before.


    I did expect Cheon Sooji to take the initiative to approach me.


    That was something I had already known. I was sure she would approach me somehow and try to pull something. I was nning on using that to prepare for the Centipede Cave, but I hadnt expected this kind of notice toe up.


    [The proficiency of Eye of Perception is at least 2.]


    [The unlock condition for a new Eye of Perception ability has been fulfilled.]


    The seductive energy Cheon Sooji used seemed to be an exceedingly low level ability. My Eye of Perception proficiency was at 2. The System recognized a very high grade difference, and thanks to that, a new Eye of Perception ability was unlocked.


    [A power of Eye of Perception, Mirror Sight, has been activated.]


    Last time, when I fought Kim Taechun, I got the additional power Future Sight. Yet another new power was activated. This time, it was Mirror Sight.


    [Mirror Sight]


    An eye that reflects intangible energy. This power has a strong reflective ability against all non-physical mental attacks, including vital energy. However, it will only activate when the energy trying to vite the wielder is markedly lower in grade than the wielders Eye of Perception. If Mirror Sight is used on an ability of equivalent or higher grade, the user may lose their eyesight.


    The new power given to me, Mirror Sight, could reflect energies that were much lower in rank than Eye of Perception.


    I cant use it carelessly.


    If I used it wrong, I could even lose my vision. However, it was safe to use it this time.[Use Mirror Sight?]


    I used it immediately. Since I just got it, why not give it a try? Cheon Soojis body instantly flinched. What was the energy Id reflected just now?


    Ah. It was seductive energy.


    Did that make me the one seducing her, then?


    At its current level, she wont get super seduced or anything like that.


    It would just make her eyes a little more drawn to me, or make me look a little more handsome for no reason. That was all, so I didnt think it would cause any trouble for me.


    Once Mirror Sight kicked in, Cheon Soojis mana flow got tangled up. By the looks of it, the activation of Lustvenom Finger was cancelled.


    I spoke to the momentarily speechless Sooji.


    What will you give me if I win?


    Whatever you want.


    I stuck out my pinky and hooked it with hers. Her Lustvenom Finger had been deactivated, so it shouldnt be dangerous.


    Dont forget your promise. I want the Rot Water that poison-ss yers can make.


    After finishing what I had to say, I turned my gaze away from Cheon Sooji and fixed my eyes on Song Kiyeol right next to her.


    Guildmaster Song Kiyeol. You have disappointed me considerably.


    ...I apologize. Miss Sooji insisted so strongly that


    Thankfully, Song Kiyeol didnt deny it. He acknowledged his fault and immediately apologized. He wasnt too unsightly.


    I apologize for acting rashly.


    No matter how sessful and strong Cheon Sooji might be, she would have never made a move with Song Kiyeol right there unless he was in on it. That meant she had informed him of her intent in advance, and the Guildmaster had given her tacit consent.


    Yes, you were wrong. I would like this to be a fair PVP.


    The looks in the eyes of the Taeguk Shield guild members changed a little, as if they saw me in a slightly different light after I saw through Soojis little trick with one nce.


    But there wont be a second time. Sound me out like this one more time and I will not work with Taeguk Shield.


    They were trying not to show it, but I could feel the guild members displeasure. They were probably thinking something like Who the hell are you to think you deserve to work with Taeguk Shield?


    They must think theyre Koreas top elites.


    They were a guild sponsored by Sungshin, after all. On a guild level, they were indeed the top in Korea.


    But individually, they dont reach the 8 Heroes.


    That went for the Taeguk Shield Song Kiyeol as well.


    Theyre still frogs in a well.


    I would show these frogs in a well a far broader sky.


    * * *


    * * *


    Byeon Gilsup stood in front of me.


    My name is Byeon Gilsup. My main weapon is the spear.


    My name is Kim Hyukjin. No real main weapon.


    For now, I tended to reach for the sword, but it was hard to call it my main weapon, since my most-used skill, Excellent Strike, wasnt limited to the sword.


    We finished up our simple introductions.


    ss, sovereign.


    ss, spearman.


    I took a look with Eye of Perception.


    [yer]


    Name: Byeon Gilsup


    Age: 26


    Level: 30


    ss: Sessor of the Rayn Family


    Guardian: Gatekeeper of the Old Grave


    Innate ability: [Instant eleration]


    State: Desire to Win / Desire to Destroy / Restraint


    Disposition: Risk-taker / Impatient


    Summary: Spearman Full of Desire to Destroy<ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    The disposition/state/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    His innate ability was Instant eleration. I only learned this while interacting with future top Rankers, but there was a world I didnt know about. There were countless people out there who couldnt unlock a single innate ability, but these people had at least one innate ability starting from the beginner period.


    This is why they say ying is all about talent.


    A somewhat bitter world where you couldnt stand on the top with effort alone vs. the wretched world of futility that Id experienced in the past.


    In any case


    I wasnt very nervous. I already knew a lot about Byeon Gilsup, including how he would attack.


    Disposition: Risk-taker / Impatient


    Summary: Spearman Full of Desire to Destroy


    Using this disposition and summary as a base, I already knew how he would move. It was so very clear that I didnt even need to use Future Sight. As soon as the match began, he woulde charging at me full-st.


    Tsk, tsk, how can you be so worked up before weve even begun?


    The PVP zone was established through Senia.


    [A PVP Zone has been dered.]


    [The Courageous Lion King is focusing.]


    [The Nameless Observer is observing.]


    [The Lady of the Scales is indicating her interest.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain is full of anticipation.]


    The start and end of this PVP was already set in stone. It was just the process in between that would change a little depending on the situation.


    One more person. Who will it be?


    It would be great if the Herdsman of the Las Vegas or the Merchant of Venice were to send a notice. Depending on which of the two was focusing on me, I would change my y style a little.


    Not sending?


    Right on cue, a notice came in.[The Herdsman of Las Vegas watches with interest.]


    It was the Herdsman of Las Vegas. Without missing the perfect timing, I spoke. It was true that life was all about timing, but the ability to create and seize that timing was also a skill.


    Mr. Byeon Gilsup. Do you like to bet?


    ...What?[The Herdsman of Las Vegas is even more interested.]


    As he should be. Gambling and bets were the first things toe to mind when you thought of the Herdsman of Las Vegas.


    Would you like to have a bet with me?


    Well then, shall we y? With the Herdsman of Las Vegas.

 Chapter 97

    Chapter 97


    What kind of bet?


    Byeon Gilsup tilted his neck, probably wondering what kind of nonsense I was spouting all of a sudden.


    I will not move from this spot.


    ...What?


    The first strike, I wont defend against it at all.


    What do you mean?


    Im sure you know where the vital points of humans are. Try attacking one of those points with all your strength. Of course, I wont dodge.


    Gilsups expression hardened. He was likely thinking that I was underestimating him right now.


    Will I truly be able to take that hit without dodging, or will I die?


    Just what in the world are you saying?


    Exactly as it sounds. I am certain that I will be able to take that attack without any damage. I provoked him a little more. The reason why I requested a private PVP today was to show everyone here a new world.


    I wanted to show these frogs in a well that the sky was far bigger than the well-sized piece theyd been staring up at all this time.


    I will defeat you with an overwhelming difference in skill. To convince everyone in Taeguk Shield.


    The spear Gilsup was holding quivered.


    How about it, Mr. Byeon Gilsup? An attack with every ounce of your strength. Would you like to try? I swear that I am not a tank. Lets bet on whether someone who isnt a tank like me can take such an attack without any damage or not.


    Sure enough


    [The Lady of the Scales advises against unnecessary provocation.]


    [The Nameless Observer observes.]


    [The Courageous Lion King is frustrated.]


    [The Whispering Devil ps his hands with glee.]


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas is very interested.]


    Gilsup raised his spear. Fine, he gritted, grinding his teeth. That high and mighty confidence of yours, lets see how long it canst.


    It looked like he was pretty pissed off. Well, he was a yer with a lot of pride, so he was probably even more galled. Who would have thought that a nonbat ss yer who wasnt even a tank, but a <em>sovereign</em>, would ever be treated with such scorn?


    I cant say for certain, but


    There was a high chance the Herdsman of Las Vegas made some kind of proposal to Gilsup. If he epted my bet, he might have a chance at a big reward.


    Which is why he epted without hesitation.


    All the Taeguk Shield guild members were staring at me in bafflement, except for just one of them, Cheon Sooji. That made me sweat a bitwas Mirror Sight too effective? There was slight but unmistakable interest in her gaze.


    Whatever, itll probably fade soon.


    Ill make you regret it within one minute, said Gilsup.


    Our PVP match began.


    * * *


    Byeon Gilsup raised the main weapon hed enjoyed usingtely, Noxs Spear. It had an attack power of around 35.


    He was sure of it.


    Excluding powerful blunt weapons, it has the highest damage.


    Blunt weapons could deal a heavy, powerful blow, but they were much harder to swing. To use them, you had to sacrifice a lot of dexterity. But Gilsups weapon was different.


    I believe in you, Noxs Spear.


    He finished all his preparations to prate the heart of the rookie who had arrogantly imed he would show them all a different sky.


    Ill stab through.


    He drew back his arm, leveling his spear so it was parallel to the ground. A single-point stab. When his speartip reached the target point, he would increase the rotational force.


    You will definitely regret this.


    He loaded the balls of his feet with far more strength than usual. That was so he could deliver a stab with all his weight behind it. You couldnt use such an exaggerated movement in a real battle, since there would be too much danger of counterattack if you threw all your weight into one attack like this.


    Ill stab his heart.


    Song Kiyeol observed Gilsup in silence. He, of course, did not doubt Gilsups powerful stab.


    His target seems to be the heart.


    The heart was a big weak point for humans. And yet, Hyukjin was allowing an undefended attack on such a vulnerable spot. Did sovereign yers have some kind defense skill?


    Here Ie!


    Gilsups spear surged forward in a horizontal line with all his weight behind it, looking like he was one with the spear. The point of his spear rushed in unwaveringly, aiming precisely for a single spot.


    Hyukjin wasnt all that shaken by it.


    Itsing.


    There was a very brief moment during which he read Gilsups movement. This was the strongest single attack Gilsup was capable of, his strongest stab. He saw how Gilsups body moved to create the stab, how the mana in his body flowed.


    <em>Thud!</em>


    Something hit his heart.


    [The Great Orc Warriors partial set effect is activating.]


    [All damage has been nullified.]


    The strike that should have gone through his heart felt like a kids weak fist hitting his chest. Actually, it couldnt even really be called an impact, since it was as weak as the kind of drumming you did when your chest felt stuffy.


    Huh?


    Gilsup made an expression of disbelief.


    There was zero damage?


    Hyukjin grinned. Are you sure that was your strongest attack?


    Song Kiyeol was just as bbergasted. He did think that Hyukjin had something up his sleeve, but he never thought Hyukjin would be able to shrug off Gilsups attack with absolutely zero damage.


    What in the world<em>was </em>that?


    Just then, Han Seokmin said, Its the power of items.


    Hyukjin nodded. He hadnt intended on keeping it a secret anyway, and he knew that Taeguk Shield had Han Seokmin. He had seen a glimpse of Han Seokmins ability in action in the Hill of Blowing Wind. This man, who would one day be famous as the Analyst, wouldnt find it difficult to figure out this much.


    Seeing as he concluded that its the power of items instead of its probably the power of items, hes pretty skilled.


    The Analyst Han Seokmin. He might be second best now, but he would be a big helpter on. Plus, he would be a pretty good match with Hyukjin, an Observer.


    Song Kiyeol still had a look of disbelief on his face. No matter how good the item was, how could itpletely nullify Gilsups attack? It was mind-boggling. No item he could think of was capable of that. That mystery item Hyukjin possessed hadpletely blocked an attack from a determined spearman aiming at a vital point. Wasnt that essentially like giving you a second life?


    Hyukjin exined. Being overgeared is also a skill.


    Since he had decided to show them the broad sky above, he borated in slightly greater detail. Simply subduing Byeon Gilsup was meaningless.


    A set effect thatpletely blocks any attack from under level 35 kicked in.


    ...Theres an effect like that?


    Do you think President Song was blinded by new tech for no reason? Think he didnt expect an effect like this? Hyukjin continued to talk to Kiyeol,pletely ignoring the spearman he was in a PVP with. Do not underestimate new tech too much.


    Since he was doing this, he wanted to raise them well.


    Because Taeguk Shield may just be the cornerstone business of Sungshin.


    That was enough to drive in his point. Song Kiyeol had seen the power of new tech for himself. Having a vague estimation of somethings power was worlds apart from seeing it in action.


    Kiyeol felt goosebumps rise on his arms. Mr. Kim Hyukjin isnt PVPing right now he thought numbly.


    This wasnt a PVP. It was a<em>lecture, </em>onegiven to him and the guild members Taeguk Shield while everyone was gathered in one spot.


    Hes educating us.


    It stung his pride, but Kiyeol would take what was offered. The business that could give him a definite edge in thepetition with his little sister was the new tech business. The attack just now had engraved that lesson in his bones.


    Hyukjin smiled.Summary: Guildmaster who Met his Teacher


    Song Kiyeol seemed to finally have the right mindset. Only once he was satisfied with his progress on the Guildmaster did Hyukjin turn his gaze back to Byeon Gilsup. The spearman looked like he had suffered quite the shock.


    There is a wide range of item effects. The effect and worth of items willpletely change based on how you distribute and use them.


    ...


    Gilsup regripped his spear.


    Ive lost the bet, but I havent lost the PVP yet.


    Thats true. Hyukjin tossed him a little hope. The absolute defense ability I just used can only be used once per day.


    Before he regressed, the set effect of the Great Orc Warrior set was simply a natural part of everyday life, something so well-known that there were all sorts of strategies that hinged on it. There was no need to bend over backwards to keep it a secret, so he used it to teach a lesson instead.


    The yers need to get their act together.


    Thanks to Hyukjin, the difficulty of the Korean server was noticeably reduced, and as a result, the yers were quite a bit weaker than they were in the past. He judged that a little education was necessary in order to strengthen what was weakened.


    If Taeguk Shield changes first, bing more proactive after realizing the worth of new tech for themselves, it will definitely influence the other yers to do the same.


    This wasnt just a PVP, but a stroke in the big picture. The Guardians who were watching all this from one step away scrambled to send messages.


    [The Lady of the Scales is awed by your unbiased view.]


    [The Barrier of Blue Light keenly understands your feelings.]


    The justice-aligned Lady and defense-attribute Barrier Guardians actively endorsed him,[The Courageous Lion King is bored.]


    the courage-lover was bored,[The Whispering Devil snorts at your scheme.]


    and the Whispering Devil wasnt very amused by his ying.[The Nameless Observer continues to observe.]


    The Nameless Observer seemed to always be among the five Guardians who sent messages. As usual, they were maintaining their neutral position.


    In any case, Ive sufficiently shown the Guardians the picture Im going for, too.


    That meant it was time to wrap up the PVP.


    Lets return to the PVP, said Hyukjin. Then, he pulled out Yeonseos sword, the item of a grade he hadnt even been sure had existed.


    This time, I will use a sword.


    * * *


    * * *


    The movements of the future Spear Demon Byeon Gilsup were fast. He appeared to be stepping straight forward, but suddenly swerved right and left as he aimed for Hyukjins side.


    Hiya!


    He made it seem like he was going for the side, but his spear whipped upwards without any warning and came down like a guillotine.


    <em>Whumpf!</em>


    His spear shaft came hurtling down towards the crown of Hyukjins head.


    Hyukjin hadpletely read Gilsups movements. He nudged the spear shaft away with his palm, twisting.


    It was difficult to block a vertical strike from the bottom. At worst, the impact could even fracture his wrist. Instead of opting for a reckless head-on match of strength, Hyukjin slipped away to the side.


    I can see the opening.


    If he immediately rushed in and swung his sword, he could easily subdue Gilsup. However, he didnt do so.


    What a strange feeling.


    It was simr to what he had experienced when fighting Kim Taechun, an opponent far weaker than himself; a simr feeling to when hed gotten Eye of Perceptions special power, Future Sight. A strange feeling, like he could see something.


    No, I can actually see it more clearly than that.


    The King of Swords Asura was showing him the sword path, and unbeknownst to Hyukjin, he was being drawn into it.


    Hyukjin, who had never learned swordsmanship, began to learn.

 Chapter 98

    Chapter 98


    Asura is showing me the sword path.


    I was definitely the one moving the sword, but it felt like Asura itself was fighting. I could see new paths and points I hadnt seen before.


    I could have pierced his forehead just now.


    But once again, I stayed my hand. All these paths and points, the so-called sword path, were a new learning experience and lesson for me.


    My movements have be much lighter, too.


    I realized that my movements had be very simr to Yeonseos. Of course, they werent as clean as hers. Looking purely at sword-rted technique, Yeonseo was a step above me. But I had something Yeonseo didnt.


    Stats and items.


    With the edge they gave me, I was creating movements that almost mirrored hers. I was physically creating a technique.


    Modifying Heavenly Demonic Flying Step into a foot technique would probably feel something like this.


    I could feel that I was growing in the midst of battle. It was different from fighting a monster. My growth felt far faster when I was facing humans. I swung my sword in a trance, in the state that was called being one with the sword.


    After not much time passed, I heard a notice.[The innate ability Sword Path Tracing has been awakened.]


    Huh?


    The notice startled me out of the trance Id been in.


    Sword Path Tracing?


    [Sword Path Tracing]


    An ability that creates sword paths. No matter the situation, it will trace sword paths to attack an opponent within attack range.


    For a moment, I nearly forgot I was in a battle against Gilsup.


    This is a pretty famous innate ability.


    It was an innate ability typically possessed by cream of the crop swordsmen,monly called the swordsmen Rankers. At least 50% of them possessed the special talent called Sword Path Tracing.


    And I acquired that.


    No, I didnt acquire it; I awakened it.


    Innate abilities were talents you already had within you, already-existing abilities that could be awakened via special means. I had unintentionally unlocked another innate ability.


    Even if I were going mad with pain, even if I myself couldnt see any paths. Even if I lost both my arms it will create a path and follow through, no matter what.


    That was the power of Sword Path Tracing. Both your arms could be cut off and the ability would still carry out the attack as long as the opponent was within attack range. There was even a case where the Sword Ghost Lee Changhyun sessfully pierced the Red Eye by gripping his sword with his teeth because his arms had been cut off.


    I felt a surge of happiness. It kinda feels like I just got a killer move.


    The day would undoubtedlye when I would be able to make very good use of this new card. I fought Byeon Gilsup with leisure, moving far more naturally and smoothly than before, now that Asura had taught me to read sword paths.


    * * *


    From the side, Yeonseo perceived it clearly: Hyukjin had gotten stronger once again. Every time she thought she was catching up to him, he pulled ahead again, and the process repeated. Looking at her rival made her feel a burst of agitation once again, a feeling that quickly transformed into happy excitement. Excitement from seeing a strong person, and happiness from the fact that she was that strong persons closest teammate.


    Like I said, hes got a serious talent for exciting people.


    She filled her eyes with the sight of Hyukjin. Just then, Byeon Gilsups spear fell out of his hands.


    Haah! Haah!


    Hyukjins sword, Asura, rested lightly on the spearmans throat.


    Do you acknowledge defeat?


    ...


    The panting Gilsup bit his lips. He had no choice but to acknowledge defeat, but he was being stubborn. It was hard for him to acknowledge that he, a spearman ss yer, was defeated by a sovereign ss. And that was a result Hyukjin had intentionally crafted.


    Im sure hes quite pissed.


    Hyukjin intentionally showed him openings and chose not to attack. He gave Gilsup many opportunities to win. Reason number one was because he was having fun with the new ability Asura had given him, and reason number two was to agitate Byeon Gilsup even more.


    The spearman spoke, barely managing to swallow his rage. It seems that the sovereign ss has many chances to acquire good items.


    Yes, of course. Its called sovereign for a reason.


    Your items are so strong that Im left wondering if this is truly a fair fight.


    By the standards of the future, that was apletely ridiculous thing to say. In the future, the item halo was recognized as another kind of skill. That was just a natural fact of life.


    But in the beginning days of ying, being overgeared wasnt recognized.


    In the early game, the public sentiment in not just Korea, but the whole world, was stacked against items in PVP. Hyukjin was keenly aware of that.


    Its the same now, huh.


    The flow of the past and now was the same.


    Items, you say.


    Hyukjin handed the Asura he was holding to Yeonseo, simply returning it to its original owner. He also gave the Wind Shoes +1 back to Sunghyun.


    Alright then. Ive passed on all the outstanding items.


    He stopped himself from saying one more thing, which was I havent even used the special ability of the Wind Shoes. He thought he would need to use Imaginary Running Start at least once, but that wasnt the case.


    His thoughts on the battle with Byeon Gilsup were simple.


    Its way easier than I expected.


    The PVP was way easier than he thought, even considering he had the help of Asura.


    On the other hand, you have something called the ss halo, Mr. Byeon Gilsup. Am I wrong?


    Thats


    If you want toment on items with me, its only right to talk about your ss halo first.


    ...


    Gilsup wasnt the type of person to harp on the ridiculous. He was rendered speechless for a moment.


    Though well, even your ss halo is meaningless.


    Hyukjin closed in on the spearman instantly using sh Step, an attack hed shown everyone here before. He got behind Gilsups undefended back and stabbed his neck with a dagger, severing the carotid artery.


    You mustnt let your guard down until the very end. It all happened in an instant. It was you who said that the PVP hadnt ended yet.


    With a single attack, blood surged out of Gilsups neck. Hyukjin released his grip.


    <em>Plop!</em>


    The spearman slumped to the ground like a puppet with cut strings, dying on the spot.[You have won the PVP match.]


    Cheon Soojis eyes widened as she watched. She hadnt been able to read Hyukjins movements just now.


    A clean strike free of superfluous movements.


    No, it wasnt just about being clean. It was downright <em>terrifying</em>.


    The way he cut a persons throat was extremely natural.


    They might be in a PVP zone where yers were resurrected, but even so, severing a living persons carotid artery wasnt something just anyone could do. Just now, Hyukjin almost looked like a demon of ughter who had killed a thousand, tens of thousands of times. Sooji felt the breath catch in her throat.


    Scary.


    It was scary and terrifying. She reyed it in her mind and found that she wouldnt have been able to avoid that merciless strike, either. She was sure of it.


    If that man wanted to, he might be able to kill all of us here.


    No, she knew that was an exaggeration. But still, she felt a strange sense of pressure from that man. Her heart thumped unbidden, and a strange nervousness, a strange <em>fear</em>, pulsed through her veins. And in the midst of it, there was a tingly, exhrating thrill.


    Her heart began to beat wildly.


    That man. I want him.


    In the meantime, Byeon Gilsup revived in a sh of light.


    * * *


    * * *


    After reviving, Gilsups face flushed red. Hyukjin grinned at him in open provocation.


    We can fight again if you like.


    ...


    But Gilsup had already felt it. Facing Hyukjin was like facing a wall. He was a strong person Gilsup couldnt even begin to face with his current skills.


    Im furious.


    He was angry, but there was nothing he could do. A defeat was a defeat.


    And Im scared.


    On one hand, he was furious, and on the other, he was scared. Those two contradictory emotions gripped him as Hyukjin continued talking.


    Im a sovereign ss. Youre a spearman ss. I imagine that 1 vs. 1 PVP is a spearmans specialty.


    ...


    Though in terms of the result, the ss difference was pretty much meaningless.


    Hyukjin himself was a little fascinated. It had simply been too easy. Even if two people were the same level and a simr ss, their abilities would be heaven and hell apart based on talent. They were both men in their 20s, but there was a marked difference in skill within that group.


    Even though Byeon Gilsup should be a yer with a talent that Kim Taechun cant evenpare to.


    And yet, he won, and far more easily than he expected. So easily that he wondered if this was really alright. In any case, he sessfully carried out the 1st round of forestalling, which meant he could also get the thing Cheon Sooji had promised him.


    This was where it really began.


    Ive brought all my party members here.


    Hed gone out of his way to bring all his party members here for this picture. After winning a 1 vs. 1 and provoking the other party, they would have a group battle. Hyukjin wanted to prove not only his individual strength, but his overwhelming skill even in a guild vs. guild battle. He wanted to show them that there was a true sky beyond the one they knew.


    Weve had a battle that shows off your specialty Hyukjin stared at Song Kiyeol as he spoke, So how about having a battle that shows off mine this time? Its only fair that I also get a chance to show you what a ss halo is. What do you think?


    Kiyeol fell into a moment of thought. What Hyukjin was saying was that direct battle wasnt his forte, so they shoulde at him if they had the balls, and he would show them his true ability, the sovereign ss. The gears in Kiyeols brain turned rapidly, flicking the abacus beads of profit and loss from epting this battle.


    He realized Hyukjins intent. Hyukjin wasnt asking them to fight like this simply to provoke.


    His intent is clear.


    A simple fight wasnt what he wanted. Goosebumps rose up not just on his arms, but on the back of his neck.


    How can a person like him possibly be 20 years old?


    He was almost sure he knew what Hyukjin intended. When he realized it, Kiyeol found himself growing calm.


    First. To show not just his individual dominance, but the dominance of his entire team.


    In addition


    Second. To bolster my assertion that we need to actively cooperate with his party.


    In other words, to prove that his discernment as the Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield was correct.


    Third. To make the Taeguk Shield guild members submissive by showing an overwhelming difference in skill.


    In other words, he was pre-empting every possible problem. Once he fully realized Hyukjins intent, Kiyeol had to really think for a moment. If things went as Hyukjin intended, it was almost guaranteed that Taeguk Shield would be defeated. He couldn''t be sure if their loss would truly be a good thing.


    And if we were to win?


    That would be good in its own way. He had more than enough willingness to cooperate with Hyukjin anyway. From what Kiyeol had seen so far, Kim Hyukjin hadpetence in spades. If Taeguk Shield won, Kiyeol would be able to take a slightly more favorable position in their rtionship moving forward.


    We will do our best to win.


    Winning was of course good, but there wasnt much to lose from losing, either. That was the kind of big picture Hyukjin had drawn for him.


    And so, he epted.


    I ept your proposal, Mr. Kim Hyukjin.


    Their side had a rough estimation of the other sides forces,piled based on the eyewitness reports of the survivors from the Hill of Blowing Wind. Kiyeol figured that they might have a slight edge in that regard.


    Hyukjin spoke to Senia. Senia. Can you dere a GVG zone instead of a PVP zone?


    The deration of a GVG zone requires the sponsorship of a Guardian. Not long afterwards, Senia spoke again. It is possible to dere a GVG. This GVG will be sponsored by the Herdsman of Las Vegas.


    Notices came in.


    [A GVG Zone has been dered.]


    [Moving to the GVG Zone.]


    The yers were covered in light, and no one was able to see the profound smile on Hyukjins lips.


    Song Kiyeols belief that this was a big picture drawn Hyukjin drew for him was only half right.

 Chapter 99

    Chapter 99


    I craned my ears to hear the notices.


    Were probably the first people to have satisfied the GVG conditions.


    If PVP was yer vs. yer, GVG was Guild vs. Guild. The scale varied depending on the situation, but it was often called a small-scale war.


    Is it one after all?


    Whether the first GVG was a hidden piece or not was a long-standing debate. Was the first GVG truly a hidden piece? No one had confirmed which guild was the first to open a GVG. Several guilds imed to have held the first GVG, so everyone said something different.


    Now, I would be able to resolve this age-old question. GVG content was actually something that showed up in the mid-game, so I had pulled it way forward in the timeline.


    The next moment, I heard a notice.


    [This is the first GVG.]


    [A Hidden Piece has been fulfilled.]


    We had been moved to an open clearing. The ground was hard cement, and it was a in, featureless ce with no slopes or obstacles, kind of like a training hall. The opposing guild, the guild members of Taeguk Shield, grew wide-eyed.


    Hid-Hidden piece?


    A hidden piece was triggered.


    Their faces were flushed with great excitement. Seeing their reactions, Sunhwa tilted her head.


    Oppa. Was a hidden piece really that amazing?


    ...


    Yeah, it was. Ordinary people were hardly ever able to experience a hidden piece, and finding an unpublicized one was near impossible. I thought about telling Sunhwa that, but I didnt.


    She probably wont get it.


    After being exclusively around me and other yers with top-level talent, hermon sense was very twisted. If I had to guess, it might be something like a rich kid who had a chauffeur not knowing how much a bus ticket cost.


    In the end, I settled for just saying, Normally, theyre hard to find, and Sunhwa nodded, but as I thought, she didnt seem all that convinced. In any case, it was true that this was a hidden piece.


    A new quest was given on the heels of thest notice.


    [The hidden quest Achieve Victory in the First Battle! has been triggered.]


    This was a reward given by the System itself and had nothing to do with the reward from the sponsor of this battle, the Herdsman of Las Vegas.


    Song Kiyeol was, of course, a little flushed as well.


    Shall we begin the battle?


    One moment, please. There is something I need to check. Lets begin a little bitter.


    Understood.


    With that, their side earned some time to strategize, which our side needed as well.


    Boss Hyukjin. How should we act now?


    Hold on.


    Strategizing was important, too, but there really was something I needed to check. The yellow [!!!] marks in front of my eyes.


    [The Hidden Piece Achieve Victory in the First Battle! has been fulfilled.]


    [There is a title that can be connected to the first discovery of the Hidden Piece Achieve Victory in the First Battle!]


    That title was First Pioneer.


    [Will you connect the title First Pioneer with the Hidden Piece Achieve Victory in the First Battle! and trigger the linked scenario?]


    I checked the details immediately.


    If a yer with the [First Pioneer] title is the first to discover a [Hidden Piece], it is possible to trigger a linked scenario. Linked scenarios can be triggered three times.<ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    Linked Scenarios Triggered: [1/3]</li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    Linked Hidden Piece: [Pioneer who Seized the First Victory]</li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    Scenario: Make a significant contribution in the uing war. Upon clearing the scenario quest, the title [First Pioneer] will be upgraded to [Pioneer of Victory].</li></ul>


    A linked scenario came up. For the Gold Turtles Collective Spirit and the Seoul Station Dungeon, I chose NO, and for the Challenge to the Jackpot, I chose YES. This time, my choice was


    YES.


    The part about making a significant contribution was a little vague, but I judged that it was best to ept this time. The reward was a title upgrade, of all things, and the title in question was one with a whopping 20% additional EXP bonus. Upgrading it if possible was a no-brainer.[The connection between the title effect and Hidden Piece has beenpleted.]


    I made my decision. The GVG with them was part of the picture from the start, ever since I was first notified about the 1st yers Convention. Ever since I whispered to Senia and told her I would bring Taeguk Shield under me, this situation was part of my n.


    Ill distribute the roles starting now. Listen up.


    The reason why I came here in the first ce was to prove my ability as a sovereign. And now, it was time to do that.


    * * *


    * * *


    Hyukjin was already well aware of the other sides forces. All of them would be famous yers in the future. The numbers didnt match up, so one of them stepped out for a total of six yers.


    The Taeguk Shield, Song Kiyeol.


    The Poison Witch, Cheon Sooji.


    The Golden Priest, Gong Jinhoon.


    The Spear Demon, Byeon Gilsup.


    The Analyst, Han Seokmin.


    The Sand Giant, Shin Kangha.


    Each of them would grow into Rankers everyone would acknowledge. But Hyukjins side werent easy foes, either.


    The Fist King, So Yoohyun.


    The Fire Lord, Choi Sung-gu.


    The Typhoon, Jo Sunghyun.


    The Sword Empress, Shin Yeonseo.


    They werent just easy foes, but people who were actually far more famous. Not yet, but still. With the Kim siblings, Hyukjin and Sunhwa, added to the four, their team had six yers as well.[The GVG has begun.]


    As soon as the match began, Hyukjin used his special skill, sh Step. His goal was to get behind the Golden Priest, Gong Jinhoon. The blonde-haired man was currently wearing a silver armor item, and all for a simple goalto hide that he was a healer.


    I already know that youre a healer.


    Closing in instantly, Hyukjin stabbed at Gong Jinhoons neck with his dagger. Rather, he <em>tried</em> to. Song Kiyeol had reacted with crity.


    I knew youd do this!


    The Taeguk Shield Kiyeol protected Jinhoons neck with a special energy. Hyukjin had already shown them sh Step before, and Han Seokmin had analyzed Hyukjins most likely first step, using that as a base.


    For a very brief moment, Song Kiyeol tasted the hope of victory.


    It was exactly as Seokmin analyzed.


    If that side had the sovereign Kim Hyukjin, their side had Han Seokmin, a tactician ss yer who could even use a special ability called Oracle.


    The problem was that Hyukjin knew that Taeguk Shield had Han Seokmin, and he knew Seokmin would read him.


    Hyukjin grinned. I knew, too.


    At the same time, Yeonseo charged. Hyukjin was bait. The true attack was from Yeonseo. She moved far faster than she normally showed, an explosive speed that wasnt quite as fast as sh Step, but more than speedy enough to stab the opponent. She cut right into the momentary opening and pierced Gong Jinhoons neck.


    Gugh!


    Yeonseos Single Hit Finisher showed that it fully deserved its name. Jinhoon crumpled on the spot. He didnt die, but he iled, unable to bear the pain. He wouldnt be able to heal in that state.


    In the meantime, Cheon Sooji attacked Yeonseo. ck marble-like spheres of poison sprayed towards Yeonseo.


    <em>Whooosh!</em>


    A wind came out of nowhere. It was a man-made wind, a special breeze manifested via magic. A Magic Wind blew in.


    It was Jo Sunghyun.


    Ive already done this once before.


    They had already experienced a simr attack. The poison marbles were simr to the attack used by the Ghosts on the Hill of Blowing Wind. The experience theyd gained from dodging those marbles was already engraved in their bodies. Sunghyun slightly altered the trajectory of the poison marbles, and that slight change gave Yeonseo a great deal of breathing room when dodging.


    Thanks! she called out, widening the space between them in an instant. Hyukjin hadnt been able to extricate himself yet, but Song Kiyeol could sense that something was going off-kilter.


    Still


    There was hope.


    Well kill the sovereign!


    He knew that Hyukjin held a huge role in their party. If Hyukjin died, a big crack would definitely form in their side.[Using the skill Restraint.]


    Something like a pool of blue mana appeared under Hyukjins feet. It was Kiyeols skill, a restraining skill.


    Thinking that Hyukjin was restrained, Gilsup stabbed with his spear.


    Hyaaa!


    The extremely fast attack looked as if it would pierce Hyukjins heart, but he had already seen the future.[Utilizing the power of Future Sight.]


    Even Hyukjin couldnt predict every single situation that could ur in a battle. He couldnt ovee everything with his intuition and analysis alone. Therefore, he used Future Sight, though it would exhaust him. Through it, he read Byeon Gilsups attack like it was telegraphed.


    The spearmans goal was his neck.


    Though hes making it look like hes going for my heart.


    In the end, the path would end at his throat. It was probably a special skill that suddenly changed path and struck a different weak point, something simr to Sword Path Tracing.


    Hyukjin twisted a little. Armed in the Great Orc Warrior set, his defense far exceeded the average yers.


    I can definitely do it.


    As he slightly twisted, he pushed away Gilsups spear.


    Break the weapon bnce, and


    He rushed up to Gilsup.


    <em>Splurt! Splurt! Splurt!</em>


    He stabbed the dagger he was holding into Gilsups side multiple times in quick session. He wasnt greedy; inflicting an injury was enough.


    Oryaa! <em>Boulder Fist!</em>


    With Yoohyuns assistance, Hyukjin got out of the Taeguk Shield encirclement. It was only a brief confrontation, but the tide of the battle had alreadypletely shifted.


    Song Kiyeol couldnt believe it.


    May I ask you one thing?


    Anytime.


    Are you sure you are a nonbat ss?


    Shin Yeonseo moving much faster than expected was surprising on its own, but Hyukjins movements were beyond all imagination. It was impossible to view him as a nonbat ss.


    His movements are one thing but what the hell is that ridiculous tanking ability?


    He didnt just take an attack; he used his sturdy body and outstanding reflexes to knock away Gilsups spear.


    Despite it being an unconventional attack Gilsup didnt show in the PVP match.


    The unconventional nature of the attack meant absolutely nothing to Hyukjin, who saw through it in a single nce like he knew it wasing. As a result, he had the leisure to get close to Gilsup and had about 0.5 seconds to deal an injury.


    His ability to adapt, his agility, his situational judgment, all of it went beyond expectation. Kiyeol thought to himself that this was how it would feel to meet a genius above geniuses.


    Theres no doubt. I notarized it through my Intermediate Administrator. Hyukjin shrugged. Like I said, Im a sovereign.


    ...


    There was now forbidding a sovereign from directly engaging in battle, but still, this was too much, wasnt it?


    Song Kiyeol asked again, Just in terms of fighting capability alone about where do you stand inside your team, Mr. Kim Hyukjin?


    It was an important question. Hyukjin grinned.


    I will only say that I am indeed a nonbat ss yer.


    Do you mean that you are the weakest one?


    I cant tank as well as this kid, Im worse at single-hit DPS than Yoohyun, Im slower than Yeonseo, and of course, these two are better than me at magic. He shrugged again. Well, something along those lines.


    He smiled, giving a boast that wasnt just empty words. By the way, these guys havent even gotten started yet.


    He phrased it exactly to make the Taeguk Shield guild members misunderstand. The weakest one, the sovereign, nearly single-handedly created this situation. He was saying one thing: Think you can really face us as a team when the weakest one among us was capable of wreaking such havoc?


    How did you cast off my restraint?


    Thats a secret.


    It wasnt anything big, just that Hyukjins magic resistance was far higher than Kiyeols restraining ability. Hyukjin was just as surprised when he saw the future via Future Sight.


    Guess my magic resistance is super high.


    Eye of Perception, which alerted Hyukjin to danger, didnt go off this time, which meant the Guildmasters Restraint was simply that weak. There was just that much of a gap between them.


    Byeon Gilsup is weaker than I thought, and so is Song Kiyeol


    They were all a little weaker than Hyukjin expected. While Hyukjin was feeling that it was easy, Kiyeol felt like he was facing a massive wall.


    I really cannot see a way to win.


    It was like chipping away at a stone wall with a spoon.


    Just then, someone said to Hyukjin, We havent gotten started yet, either.


    The voice belonged to Shin Kangha, the yer who would one day be famous as the Sand Giant. His extremely strongpetitiveness made him a yer who would rather die than lose.


    At Kanghas words, Kiyeol snapped out of his daze. It felt like they were fighting a wall, but they still had to do their best to the very end. Hisbative spirit zed up again.


    Hyukjin raised his index finger. The GVG hasnt ended yet. I merely engaged in conversation because you asked me to.


    He pointed his finger at Song Kiyeol and mumbled a stream of iprehensible words.


    Kiyeol panicked.


    Magic?

 Chapter 100

    Chapter 100


    Hyukjin raised his finger on purpose, as if he were going to do something. As if he were going to use magic. He pointed his finger at Song Kiyeol and called out, Bang!


    Kiyeol flinched, and Observers Eye captured the mana moving urgently in his body.


    Thats the energy of a tank.


    Hyukjin couldnt put how it differed in words; he just felt it instinctively. That was the energy of a tank, an energy with a focus on defense. That energy covered the Guildmasters body, and Hyukjin had the feeling it was especially concentrated on the forehead.


    A cheeky voice came from behind Hyukjin.


    Heh. Fooled ya, huh?


    It was Choi Sung-gu. His me whip was making another appearance. The magic was moving significantly more smoothly than before, an indication that his cooperation with Sunghyun had be much more natural.


    Hyukjins finger was a fake.


    Shabam! Fiery me~ Whip~!


    Sung-gu and Sunghyuns fusion magic, me Whip, smashed down on Shin Kangha.


    Take this! Gooooo!


    <em>Fwoooosh!</em>


    mes raged on Shin Kanghas body.


    Hyukjin read Kiyeols mental state.State: Panic / Mentally Groggy


    In order to properly block a spell from two mages who had been quietly preparing all this time, you would need the tank Kiyeol, or Gilsup or Sooji would have to attack the mages.


    Gilsup is injured. Sooji is being marked by Sunhwa and Yeonseo.


    That left Song Kiyeol as the best person to block the spell, but he waspletely tricked by Hyukjins fake out.


    Hyukjin didnt think the spell alone was enough to kill Shin Kangha.


    With his defense, hell be able to survive it.


    Sure enough, Kanghas body started to transform.


    Morph enhancement yer.


    Sand wrapped all around his body, and it looked like he had be a sand person. He clearly took a lot of damage from the me Whip, but being injured didnt seem to restrict his movements as much as it did with Gilsup.


    Hyukjin saw Han Seokmins mouth moving.


    Hes probably telling his guild members what he analyzed with his special ability.


    Basically, they were doing something like a guild chat. But that was fine.


    Because Im much higher rank than Han Seokmin.


    There was no need to keep him in check. Taeguk Shield would be famous in the future, but they were stillplete beginners to a GVG like this. No matter how outstanding their talent might be, they couldnt be perfect at something from the very start. Actually, rather than saying that Taeguk Shield was bad at this, it was more urate to say that Hyukjin was simply doing too well. He was the odd one for being so proficient when it was also his first time.


    Shin Kangha shouted, Die!


    A massive fist of sand, a magic attack capable of dealing quite a lot of damage, surged into the sky.


    Hyukjin stood quietly in ce and stared at the sand fist without a hint of urgency. As a sovereign, he didnt look daunted in the least.


    The attack target is me.


    He simply watched. After all, their side had an amazing tank.


    Dream on!


    A shield glowing with white light formed above Sunhwas right hand. Kanghas sand fist crashed into Sunhwas shield and streamed to the ground as formless grains of sand.


    Meanwhile, Yeonseo killed Gilsup and Yoohyun smashed Seokmins head in. The result of the GVG was all too obvious.


    Kiyeols body trembled.


    This isnt just an ordinary difference in skill


    He had to acknowledge the ring truth in front of him.


    Its an <em>overwhelming</em> difference in skill.


    They were strong, so strong that Taeguk Shield should be the ones begging to cooperate. He was experiencing that with every cell of his body. Experiencing something personally waspletely different from knowing something.


    This is for the best.


    His primary goal was indeed aplished as nned. He just hadnt thought that they would be so overwhelmingly steamrolled even though they had done their best.


    Hyukjin patted Kiyeols shoulder.


    Today is thest time I will offer you trade conditions as an equivalent partner.


    ...


    Seize the opportunity, Guildmaster Song Kiyeol. Coming closer, Hyukjin whispered very quietly in Kiyeols ear, I will prop up Taeguk Shield as Koreas heroes, as Koreas greatest guild. I will make it so that you can take the lead in propelling the new tech wave.


    This was thest opportunity.


    Kiyeol had a gut feeling. If he failed to grasp this opportunity, Kim Hyukjin would give up on him. He would probably seek another guild to work with. It was possible that the next chance might be given to Kiyeols younger sister, Song Junghye.


    The person who would surely shape the future was Kim Hyukjin.


    ...Its our loss. I acknowledge our defeat.


    * * *


    * * *


    Song Kiyeol trudged out the elevator.


    What do I tell Grandfather?


    Three hours prior, up until the GVG started, Kiyeol never doubted that it would be a well-matched fight. Their opponents might have named yers like the Tutorial Ender, but he was confident there wouldnt be a huge difference in skill between the individual yers.


    That was a miscalction.


    To think there was this much of a gap


    As he headed to his grandfathers office, his steps became as heavy as lead. It wasnt like he failed to predict defeat, but it was also true that defeat was a bitter pill to swallow.


    Well, then. What are your thoughts after meeting Kim Hyukjin? asked President Song, his handsced together on his desk.


    He absolutely does not seem like he is 20 years old.


    President Song nodded. He had thought the same. The gaze and aura hed noticed from Hyukjin was not something that could possiblye from a 20-year-old kid. His ability to manipte the board was also outstanding, so much so that Kiyoung wanted the man as his hunting dog.


    No. Hes not a hunting dog.


    Kiyoung had thought so before, but not anymore. Kim Hyukjin was not merely a hunting dog. If he had been born as one of Kiyoungs sons or grandsons, he might have be the ruler of Korea. That was how highly Kiyoung thought of him.


    It seems to me that you having a guild vs. guild match with Kim Hyukjin was nned from the start.


    What?


    I get the feeling yer Kim Hyukjin crafted the current situation step by step, starting all the way from his participation in the yers Convention.


    Song Kiyeol nodded at that. It really stung his pride, but he still analyzed the situation with a cool head.


    I believe theres a high possibility of that being the case.


    Hooh. You acknowledge it?


    President Song looked at his grandson with a look of slight surprise. Kiyeol looked like he wasnt that displeased by the fact that he had been dancing in his opponents palm, something that would have angered and wounded anyones pride. President Song was inwardly satisfied to see it.


    Kim Hyukjin crushed us with an overwhelming difference in skill. He had uspletely figured out and analyzed what we would do before the fight even started.


    It was embarrassing to admit, but Kiyeol judged that nothing good woulde of hiding things from his grandfather. His grandfather was someone who forgave mistakes and failures, but not lies.


    As a result, the guild members of Taeguk Shield, including me, were pushed into a situation where we had no choice but to acknowledge him.


    Skills proved everything. That was likely what Kim Hyukjin wanted from the start.


    The nonbat ss Kim Hyukjins movements were truly beyond imagination.


    Was that all?


    No, sir. His analysis was far more outstanding than the tactician on our side, Han Seokmin.


    And?


    The fusion magic of Jo Sunghyun and Choi Sung-gu had me honestly intimidated.


    He was honest about everything. Being intimidated wasnt something to be ashamed of. It was natural to feel that way in front of someone far stronger than yourself. The important thing was what you learned from it, what you gained from it, that you didnt just wallow in defeat. Kiyeol was well aware that that was what his grandfather wanted to see from him right now.


    Was it a big spell?


    Yes, I believe so. They didnt do anything in the beginning.


    I see. Kim Hyukjins team must have bought them time to use that fusion magic.


    Yes.


    President Song nodded. They intentionally bought time to be able to use a big spell.


    Theyd had the leisure to do so. In other words


    They could have easily defeated you even without a big spell like that.


    And yet, they used a shy and strong spell.


    It must have been apletely calcted move to break your spirits.


    ...Yes. I think so.


    You said Jo Sunghyun and Choi Sung-gu met for the first time at the yers Convention, yes?


    Yes, sir.


    The fact they could show a cooperative y of that level must mean that Kim Hyukjin had them practice beforehand.


    ...


    Which means he must have been preparing for today ever since the Hill of Blowing Wind. For the climax today.


    Song Kiyoung stared at his grandson for a moment. He saw that Kiyeol was biting his lip, unable to conceal a little anger.


    Good.


    He was well and properly stimted by Hyukjin, a man ten years his junior. If he could apply this stimulus in a positive direction, his grandson would be able to be a far greater person.


    Kim Hyukjin has already gathered teammates of that level and is nurturing them into their respective roles. Do you acknowledge that?


    Yes.


    Not only that, but he chose to put you guys in the front and operate in the back. Im sure he intends on avoiding the publics excessive attention while garnering the actual profits. That will also greatly free up his movements. Then, by once again showing his overwhelming skills to other people of skill, he will reign as a skilled yer among yers.


    That wasnt all.


    And by choosing to cooperate with you, he will also get ess to Sungshins support.


    President Song smiled faintly without realizing it. 20 years old. He was only 20 years old. A 20-year-old created this picture and was thinking of taking only the good and leaving others to deal with the bad. It was almost chilling. And because it was chilling, President Song was delighted.


    Learn from his discernment. People are the greatest resources. Learn from his mindset. You will gain much from working with him.


    Kiyeol was inwardly shocked. His grandfather never encouraged learning from someone.


    Kim Hyukjin was that amazing? A 20-year-old was that amazing in his grandfathers eyes? It stung his pride, but stubborn determination reared its head in him regardless.


    Ill learn what there is to learn.


    He would maintain a public system of cooperation with Kim Hyukjin, and learn everything he could learn. He believed that was his ticket to personal growth.


    While learning from Kim Hyukjin, I will fully cooperate with him to advance the new tech project.


    Kiyeol didnt forget to make his aspirations clear.


    One day, I will surpass Kim Hyukjin and lead Sungshin into the future.


    * * *


    Sunhwa wasnt all that talkative when other people were around, but when it was just the two of us, she tended to talk a little more. I wasnt sure if it was because of puberty, or because she was a shy girl by nature. In any case, she was noisier when it was just us.


    We got out of the taxi and started walking home, going through therge park we had to cross to reach the apartment building.


    Oppa. Before you distributed roles to us earlier...


    Yeah.


    You heard another notice, right?


    Did it show? Well, it wasnt something I was trying to hide, anyway. I told her the truth.


    Yeah. You know I have a title called First Pioneer, yeah?


    I know.


    That was upgraded to Pioneer of Victory.


    Really? Is that really awesome then? Even better than fried chicken?


    Its almost on par with fried chicken.


    Woah. Its huge then.


    I grinned in spite of myself. By clearing the linked hidden piece, Pioneer who Seized the First Victory, I was able to get the new title Pioneer of Victory.


    [Pioneer of Victory]


    A glorious title given to one who pioneered a new domain and seized the first victory in a new domain.<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    All party members +20% EXP</li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    Stacks with other titles.</li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    Stacks with other effects (buffs/debuffs).</li></ol>


    As soon as Sunhwa heard the title effects, her eyes grew round. She blinked in visible awe.


    Wow Oppa. Does that mean as long as were in a party with you, we also get extra EXP?


    Yep. But you have to stay within a certain distance.


    It added wings to the Observer ss that could rake in EXP even while sipping tea. No matter who it was, they could get 20% more EXP simply by ying with me.


    Itll shine especially bright in the 30-40 period.


    An EXP buff, and one that applied to the entire party and could stack unconditionally with any effect, was an effect anyone and everyone would go crazy for.


    With an effect like that, it really <em>is</em> on par with fried chicken.


    Right?


    Oh yeah, oppa. Did you get something from that pretty unnie?


    Yeah. I got a special poison item called Rot Water.


    Dunno what that is, but it sounds weird.


    Does it? I tousled Sunhwas hair. Lets just go in and get some chicken.


    I took a look at Sunhwas state. Her face was flushed with excitement.State: Happy / Proud / Joyous


    Me getting something good was a source of happiness and joy for her too. It was amazing. We didnt share a single drop of blood, but it felt like I really got a sister. Her happiness was infectious.


    This joy, I would protect it.


    Or more urately, she would protect me.

 Chapter 101

    Chapter 101


    Our walk home was interrupted by the unexpected approach of a woman.


    She looked to be over 170 centimetres and had pitch-ck hair that came down to her shoulders and that contrasted with her snow-white face. Even the leather motorcycle jacket she was wearing couldnt conceal her voluminous curves, which struck yet another contrast with her slender waist. Her skinny ck jeans couldnt possibly hide her shapely legs. This was a woman who had the aura and atmosphere to make anyone believe she was a model.


    She was also someone I already knew.


    Whats she doing here?


    It was the Poison Witch Cheon Sooji. She strode over from the other side of the park while looking at me, almost like a modeling down the catwalk.


    People out walking their dogs, kids ying on their bikes, students chattering in groups of twos and threes, all of them, regardless of their age or gender, nced at least once at Cheon Sooji.State: Slight Thrill / Good Mood / Inner Peace


    Her gait looked haughty. The word Queen truly suited this woman. She gave off the impression she was walking with high heels even though she was wearing ck Converse sneakers. It was perhaps an exaggeration to say each and every step she took had flourish, and yet, it wasnt quite an exaggeration, either.


    We meet again, Mr. Sovereign.


    My name is Kim Hyukjin.


    To my amusement, Sunhwas summary changed.Summary: Brocon Guarding Against a Beauty


    Sooji stopped in front of me. The atmosphere around her was quite differentpared to when we were GVGing. She looked as cold and haughty as ever, but she didnt give off a cold edge.


    Why are you here?


    Ah, our Guildmaster asked me to deliver this.


    She pulled out two envelopes from her bosom.


    Checks?


    Inside each envelope was a $100k check.


    He gave you this?


    Yes, he asked me to deliver them.


    As if. There was no way Song Kiyeol would send Cheon Sooji, not in this day and age when electronic transfers were incredibly easy.


    She mustve insisted.


    I stared at Sooji for a moment. A faint smile was wreathing her eyes.


    Its been a while since I was given such a cold reception. She smiled lightly. Normally, men act in one of two ways when I visit them.


    Yes, and I could guess what those two ways were. People were either intimidated by her model-like figure, or ted. In all actuality, there were a ton of people who liked Cheon Sooji, and it wouldnt be long before she dipped her toes into modeling and became quite a famous model.


    Its just that Im not very happy about the fact that you came here after finding out where I live.


    Why?


    Because Taeguk Shields Guildmaster gave away my personal details like it was the address to the nearest McDonalds.


    The smile in Soojis eyes grew deeper. Perhaps out of habit, she licked her red lips a little.


    I think you must be the only man who would say such a biting remark about a 3rd generation chaebol.


    Is that so?


    Yes. Its charming.


    I shrugged. Thank you for your ttering words, but Id like it if you didnte here in the future.


    I didnt really have any desire to get involved with Sooji. She was someone who had plenty of scandals with countless celebrities and yers. There were even some unexined deaths among them. I didnt know if they were really linked to Cheon Sooji, but I didnt want to be buddy-buddy with her all the same.


    More than anything because she herself imed she was an ex-girlfriend of the Demon King.


    No one knew if that was even true or not. Cheon Sooji just said it was, and it aroused a wave of gossip worldwide for quite a while afterwards.


    The Demon King, Kang Sun-il.


    It was just an alias, of course, but I didnt want to make any connections with the Demon King just yet. Countless people lived good, happy lives without evering in contact with the Demon King. This was my second chance. I wanted to live a little morefortably, a little more happily. There were a lot of precious people next to me now, too.


    Please tell Mr. Song Kiyeol to not carelessly give away my personal details.


    Got it.


    Sooji didnt look all that upset by my cold rebuff. Smiling, she said, Youre the first person Ive seen whos been this indifferent after getting a total of $200k. Isnt an amount like $200k more than enough to make your heart throb, even if its not throbbing towards me?


    Everyone is different.


    To be honest, $200k just felt like a number to me. It was definitely good, yes, but it didnt make me reel or anything. I myself could feel that I was very different from how I had been when I was preparing for the civil service exam in the past.


    Out of nowhere, Sooji said, I like men who are stronger than me.


    ...


    To be honest, Ive taken a liking to you.


    Just then, a refreshing early autumn breeze blew in, setting Soojis hair aflutter. I smelled the pleasant fragrance of shampoo.


    Wow.


    Her preparations were thorough.


    Shes using seductive energy.


    This, too, could be called a poison. A poison that posed no harm to ones life or health, but was more like a drug. My Eye of Perception saw through it, and my poison resistance immediately nullified it.


    Perhaps believing in the power of her seductive energy, she went on rather confidently, Would you like to go out with me?


    And so, I answered, No.


    At that moment, Sunhwas summary changed again.Summary: Relieved Brocon


    Walking past her, I strode towards our house, feeling her emotions and state through Eye of Perception.


    She apparently wants to seduce me.


    This was the same Cheon Sooji who was famous for being a phnderer of men. No matter how pretty and sexy she was, I wasnt that attracted to her. Wait,e to think of it, I remembered seeing a picture of Sooji on the news about six years ago and thinking, What would I have to do to date a woman like that? Will I ever get a chance to meet a woman like that?


    Its only been a few months since I went back in time, yet


    Even I had to admit that I had changed a great deal. It felt weird. Cheon Sooji took initiative to propose dating, and I refused her.


    Life is bing more and more fun.


    Ah, right. I turned for a moment, casting a look in Soojis direction. Please ry this to Mr. Song Kiyeol for me. If anypletely ck corpses show up, particrly in the south, contact me immediately.


    Got it. Ill cooperate.


    We dipped our heads in mutual farewell.


    See youter. Next time, I wille to you looking a little more pretty.


    ...


    Or maybe you want me to be a little more sexy instead?


    I turned around. As I headed towards our base, I said to Sunhwa, Were gonna rest for about one day. Got it?


    Yes, sir!


    Sunhwa seemed very pleased. We got into the elevator, and as it rose, Sunhwa looked at me with a serious expression.


    Oppa.


    Yeah?


    That unnie just now was super pretty, right?


    Yeah, cant deny that.


    Sunhwa shook her head.


    But I dont like the feeling of her.


    All of a sudden?


    Even though she didnt have something like Eye of Perception?


    This is just a womans intuition.


    Wasnt she a bit too young to call herself a woman?


    Trust my intuition. It would be best not to get too close to that unnie.


    ...That so?


    Sunhwa nodded to herself, looking every bit like she truly believed her words were right and she was being very serious.


    Im against that unnie.


    * * *


    * * *


    One day passed. Yeonseo made a group chat.


    Tada! Our party group chat!


    Our party of six was me, Sunhwa, Yeonseo, Yoohyun, Sunghyun, and Sung-gu. Four of the six were future top-ss Rankers. In other words, geniuses. It was both fascinating and fun that I was in a team with such geniuses.


    Yeonseo sent a KaTalk.


    TN: KakaoTalk, the most popr messaging app in Korea. KaTalk for short.


    Boss Hyukjin. What should we do now?


    Lets meet up and discuss it.


    Our meeting spot was a coffee shop in Sinchon. Maybe because they recognized Yoohyun, people kept looking over. But because they were intimidated by his huge muscles, they didnt approach us.


    See the Hyundai Department Store over there?


    It was on the other side of the street. Hyundai was in its name, but its owner was Sungshin.


    The building right next to it is the U-Plex Building.


    Hyungnim. I know that ce well because Ive bought a lot of clothes there. You can buy a lot of plus-size clothes there.


    After we drink our coffees, well go study the terrain of the Hyundai Department Store and that building. Understood?


    Everyone understood. All of us were given the first entry rights to the U-Plex Dungeon.


    That ce will turn into a dungeon.


    Sunghyun cautiously said, Hyung. If that ce bes a dungeon, whatll happen to the people inside?


    Theyll probably die. Same as the Seoul Station Dungeon.


    When that ce first turned into a dungeon, everyone inside died. After a gate formed at Exit 2, the rest of the station turned to normal, but everyone inside the U-Plex when it transformed would probably die if they didnt have the ability to clear it.


    His voice still as calm and quiet as before, Sunghyun continued. Is there any way we can save them?


    We will issue a warning through Taeguk Shield.


    Taeguk Shields word held far more power than ours.


    The problem is that we dont know when or how the U-Plex Dungeon will open.


    We could hardly say That cell be a dungeon, so shut down your businesses and go home, please. Even if we said it, there was no way people would listen.


    If it was the same as the past, there would be a few early signs in September, and on the 3rd of October, there would be a dungeon break. That meant the dungeon would suddenly appear sometime between September and early October.


    The moment I see signs itll transform into a dungeon, Ill contact Guildmaster Kiyeol.


    That was the best we could do. I had already felt it during the 1st yers Convention. I was actually weakening the yers, so much that we were probably falling behind the yers in the other servers around the world.


    Though we have, of course, suffered fewer losses.


    Our current losses were reduced, but I was taking away opportunities for yers and people to grow in exchange. I had to walk the fine line where I could minimize losses while still allowing the yers to grow. That was the bnce I had to do my best to find.


    Also, were going on a vacation tomorrow. Is there anyone who cant make it?


    Dafuq? A vacation all of a sudden? What kind of vacation? Do you need the Firemaster again?


    Everyone realized that the vacation I was talking about was no ordinary vacation.


    Put plenty of food in your Inventory. When youre back home, buy as many poison resistance items as you can.


    Tomorrow, we would be heading to Sin-an, South Jeo Province. More precisely, to an ind called Plum Blossom Ind located in Sin-an.


    Everyone understood what I was saying.


    Invest as much as possible in your armor.


    Sung-gu shivered. Eurgh. What is it this time? Are we going somewhere dangerous again?


    I decided to tell them the truth.


    Four pitch-ck, rotten corpses have been discovered there.


    Ah fuck. Didnt you say it was a vacation?


    It wasnt even publicized to the press yet. I was only able to find out about this thanks to my cooperation with Taeguk Shield.


    The cause of death is unknown.


    Or so it should be, but I already knew. The deaths were the doing of Pearl Centipedes, early level 30 monsters. They were monsters we absolutely needed to kill.


    Boss Hyukjin. Is it because of monsters? And we have to kill those monsters?


    ...


    I nodded. This trip was preparation to go into the U-Plex Dungeon. But just then, my phone ringtone went off. A name popped up on the screen.


    [Noona]


    I picked up the call from my sister. What she said was rather interesting.


    ...Is that true?


    It was something that hadnt happened in the past.

 Chapter 102

    Chapter 102


    I took everyone with me and headed home, going to the central park in front of the DMC Riverview Xi.


    Whoa. Boss Hyukjin, this is where your house is? Its great! The park in front is super big too! And there are a ton of flowers.


    Choi Sung-gu jokingly pinched his nose. Eurgh. Whats with this intense middle ss smell? Its heavy af. Have mercy on this poor bastard with boujee allergy.


    After Yeonseo and Sung-gu briefly gave their opinions, we entered the park. A lot of people were gathered and murmuring amongst themselves, and a yellow police line had been put up.


    <em>A dead body was found in front of our house.</em>


    I came immediately after getting word from my sister.


    <em>Apparently, the body is ck from head to toe.</em>


    A ckened corpse. A grotesque corpse that was severely dposed even though the death was recent. A corpse that almostpletely matched the appearance of the ones discovered on Plum Blossom Ind.


    On the way here, I contacted Song Kiyeol. When I asked him if it would be possible for us to go past the police line, he said, Its still tricky for a yer to act at their own discretion. That would mean the police would be handing over their authority to the yers.


    By now, yers should have been given the reins to hunt monsters a little more independently, but the process of change seemed a little slow. It was likely closely rted to me preventing the Seoul Station dungeon break.


    One of the policemen came up to us, looking displeased. Whatpany are you reporting for? Show some restraint, please. Stop trying to get closer.


    A ck corpse was found in a park in the middle of Seoul.


    And <em>two </em>of them, no less.


    I could feel it with Eye of Perception. There were two corpses that had lost all traces of life.


    Its dangerous here.


    This was no ce for regr civilians to be gathering around. It was dangerous for the reporters, and even the policemen containing the site. Yoohyun went up to the policeman at the front of the line and said what I told him to say.


    Do you know me, by any chance?


    At times like this, the Tutorial Enders fame was helpful.


    Ah you are!


    My name is So Yoohyun. This ce is dangerous.


    The police knew, too. They knew what kind of danger monsters posed, especially after what happened recently at the DMC Lucentia Tower. Many of theirrades had died because of the Orcanthropes.


    Do you believe that this is the doing of monsters?


    Upon hearing the policemans question, many reporters shed their cameras at Yoohyun.


    yers must take an active role here, Yoohyun said.


    The reporters began to pepper him with questions.


    Are you, the Tutorial Ender, confirming that this incident is rted to monsters?


    Mr. So Yoohyun, do you think that this was not caused by human hands?


    Are you iming that this is not a murder, but an ident?


    Yoohyun didnt answer the many questions. He probably didnt really know, eitherhe was just doing what I told him to do.


    I could definitely feel it with Eye of Perception.


    Its somewhere underground.


    My proficiency [2] Eye of Perception was definitely picking up the presence of a monster somewhere underground. I couldnt sense what it looked like or its approximate size, but it was moving. It was definitely moving.


    Focus.


    More people could die. If it was the monster I knew, the list of casualties would not end here.


    A weak bloodthirst.


    I could feel the bloodthirst. It wasnt bloodthirst exuded by a human. It was definitely a monsters bloodthirst. But because it was obscured by energy from the earth, earth ki, I couldnt get a good read on it.


    Regarding this monster, the Great Explorer Jackson said:


    <em>The Pearl Centipede will suddenly emerge from a hole in the ground, snatch a person with astonishing speed, and burrow back into the ground. The hole it made will then disappear. After sucking out all the humans vital ki using the tentacle at its tails tip, it returns the body to its original position. A corpse created by a Pearl Centipede will be ckened and undergo instant dposition.</em>


    At some point, the monster would suddenly burrow out of the ground.


    Even through cement.


    The holes created by Pearl Centipedes were different from the physical holes we knew. It didnt actually make a hole ande out. Almost like a magic warp portal, a hole would appear for a moment, and the monster would emerge from that hole. Then, it would snatch its prey with extreme speed.


    How can their response be this slow?


    By now, the police should have pushed the civilians as far back as possible. But they were treating this like a regr murder scene and were investigating after merely putting up a police line of limited range.


    They still havent gotten their act together.


    It seemed it would take some time for people toe to their senses. I decided to do the best I could in the current circumstances.


    [Activating the power Future Sight.]


    [You are within Observers Domain.]


    [You are using Observers Eye.]


    [The mana and mental power consumption of Future Sight is reduced.]


    Using it for a long period would tire me. I could only hope to be lucky and have it pop out before long. At that moment, I felt it.


    That policeman.


    There was no time to exin. Future Sight only showed me less than one second in advance. I grabbed Yeonseos hand and immediately surged forward.[Using the special skill sh Step.]


    It wasnt far, only about three meters away. I used sh Step to cut through the distance instantly.


    Wh-What?


    Shock passed through Yeonseos eyes, but she rapidly assessed the situation and pulled out her sword from her Inventory. Faint ck light leaked out of her transcendent godsword, Asura.


    Yeonseo swung her sword.


    <em>Slice!</em>


    Something was cut off.


    People screamed.


    KYAAAA!


    Wh-Whats that?!


    Somethingrge was writhing on the ground. A piece of an insects body about thirty centimetresrge was wriggling on the ground like an earthworm.


    <em>Sizzzzzzzle!</em>


    Green fluid oozed out of the cut piece, and smoke rose from the dirt that came in contact with the fluid.


    It smells terrible.


    The stench of rotten wastewater pervaded the air, and the surrounding earth turned ck.


    Pearl Centipede poison.


    It was only for a brief moment, but I saw the Pearl Centipede, a massive centipede one meter in size. Because of its ability to freely move through the ground, it was a very tricky creature to hunt. Yeonseo cut it quickly, but it had already bitten the policeman.


    The policemans face started turning pitch-ck, along with his arms and legs. He iled in agony on the ground.


    A bite like that wont kill you.


    Though it <em>would </em>most likely have him suffering horrific pain for about two weeks.


    But


    Why did a Pearl Centipede show up here?


    There was no record of that in the past.


    Did I just not know about it? Or did something change? I didnt know. I would have to look into it more.


    We have to find the gate entrance.


    * * *


    * * *


    After getting word from me, the Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield personally came over, which helped things go a little more smoothly for us.


    Once again, Sunhwa yed a key role.


    Oppa! Theres something weird over here!


    Sunhwa discovered something in a flowerbed blooming with yellow flowersa ckrva about thirty centimetresrge. It was the thing Id been looking for.


    Sunhwa clutched the hem of my clothes.


    Eurgh. It looks gross. Thats gotta be at least a thousand legs.


    Therva didnt move. It justy there,pletely still.


    Its exactly the same as the one that appeared on Plum Blossom Ind.


    This thing couldnt really be called a monster. It didnt give items or EXP when killed. What it <em>did </em>do was activate a gate.


    Yeonseo.


    Got it, Boss.


    Yeonseo stabbed the ckrva.


    [A special condition has been fulfilled.]


    [The gate Centipede Cave has been generated.]


    A shimmering ck space appeared. We could click it with our eyes and open the description.


    [Gate - Centipede Cave]


    The entrance to a cave inhabited by centipedes. There is no entrance condition, and there is a high chance there is more than one entrance.


    Centipede Cave was a familiar name. It was one of the gates that showed up in my study notes.


    <em>Plum Blossom Inds Centipede Cave. Entrance to a cave inhabited by centipedes. Having no entrance condition is its distinct characteristic, also has various entrances. Inhabited by arge number of Pearl Centipedes. A gate known to be nearly impossible to clear without a fire magician.</em>


    Something was weird. Something had changed from the past.


    Its an established theory that there are no gates with the same name and structure


    It was just like how there were no two same faces out of seven billion people. Gates and dungeons could be simr, but they could never be the same. Then did that mean Plum Blossom Inds Centipede Cave moved here? But that couldnt be; the same corpses had been discovered on Plum Blossom Ind as well.


    I turned to Taeguk Shields Guildmaster, Song Kiyeol. Thest part means theres a high chance there are entrances other than this one.


    Which means Thankfully, the Guildmaster was pretty quick on the uptake. Well need to make sure the other entrances arent opened.


    Yes. When clearing gates or dungeons, its good to eliminate as many variables as possible.


    The Taeguk Shield guild members assembled quickly after getting contacted. Good of you toe, my business partners in name but subordinates in truth.


    First of all well clear this ce.


    It was true that the Centipede Cave was a ce we had to clear before going into the U-Plex Dungeon. It was weird it appeared in the central park in front of the DMC Riverview Xi instead of Plum Blossom Ind, but that didnt change the fact that we needed to clear it.


    Sung-gu. Lets go in.


    * * *


    We decided to have my party members and the Taeguk Shield guild members focus on containing the situation outside. Only Sung-gu and I went into the Centipede Cave.


    Gosh darnit, seriously? Why are we the only ones going in when Im already scared af?


    Sung-gu shivered all over. I suddenly noticed that hed gained a little weight. The future Choi Sung-gu was extremelyrgehe was famous as the Superobese me Lord.


    Dont shout. They might react to sound.


    Mmph!


    Sung-gu covered his mouth with his hand. From the way he was trembling like a leaf, he seemed pretty scared of this dark cave.


    Just kidding.


    Sung-gu gave me a tearful look. Im scared of bugs, darn it.


    The bugs are scared of you, too.


    Im being serious. Im fuckin scared of bugs. Bugs are the scariest things in the world to me. Especially ones with many legs. Eurgh. Terrible.


    Lets quickly get to work.


    You heartless jerk. Im about to croak from fear right now, but you? You have steel for blood, dont you? No, I bet you dont even have blood or tears. You damn robot.


    Despite muttering a stream ofints, he listened obediently.


    I just have to go that way, right?


    He pointed to one side of the dark cave passage, the opposite direction I would be going. Sung-gu inched forward, peering uneasily into the darkness. The reason I picked the other direction was because I felt something there.


    As we moved away from each other, the sound of Sung-gus footsteps grew quieter.


    <em>Whoosh!</em>


    There was the faint sound of wind. I plucked a hair and held it up. Even a feeble wind would send it fluttering.


    The wind ising from that way.


    It was the direction Sung-gu had gone off into. Apparently, the exit was over there. Feeling the wind on my nape, I walked a little more, keeping my guard up.


    Theres no knowing when or where theyll pop out.


    Pearl Centipedes excelled at surprise ambushes. If I was poisoned by just one of them, at least two more would show up topletely drain me of life essence.


    Eye of Perception captured something.


    Corpses?


    More corpses were littering the passageway. They were most likely people who hade inside from a different gate, people who discovered the gate before we did. It was more than just a few.


    I think there are about five corpses.


    The bodies were alreadypletely rotten. They were victims of Pearl Centipedes.


    Just when did theye in?


    Because there was no entrance restriction, regr people could freely enter the gate as well. The smell of rotting corpses was thick in the air.


    There must be a den nearby where theyre all gathered.


    Resolving myself, I focused on Eye of Perception, since it should be able to detect the monsters before they attacked me.


    But just then, someone Eye of Perception didnt perceive at all grabbed my throat, closing off my airway.

 Chapter 103

    Chapter 103


    My throat was grabbed in a turn of events that could not be chalked up to me being careless or making a mistake.[The use of Eye of Perception has been forcibly suspended.]


    This was a significant difference in skill. Someone so strong I couldnt do anything againsteven at my current levelhad appeared.


    I heard a voice.


    You. Are you a bug?


    I couldnt breathe. My feet dangled in the air. But I didnt struggle. I always knew that I would definitely meet this Demon King Kang Sung-il sometime, somewhere. It was just a question of whether I would be his enemy or not.


    I couldnt speak well, but I still did my best to choke out a word.


    Senia.


    Senia, my angel BJ, appeared. Her wings were trembling.


    He has long since been recognized by the System as not being a bug.


    Hm. That so?


    The Demon King, Kang Sun-il. His real name was unknown, and even his face was cloaked in obscurity. Even now, I couldnt see the Demon Kings face in the darkness.


    Even though its not dark enough for me to be unable to see his face.


    And yet, his face looked almost shadowy to me. He appeared to be using some kind of special barrier or magic to prevent his face from being seen.


    How do you have these abilities at this level when youre not a bug?


    He was still grabbing my throat, but I could breathe a little more easily than before. The Demon King had loosened his grip a bit. But I couldnt rest easy.


    One misstep, and Ill die.


    He certainly <em>seemed </em>like a human. I came this far by using my knowledge of the future. But what about the Demon King? He was the first to open the hidden shop of the Gwanghwamun D-Tower 2nd Floor, and he had the skills to overwhelm me here as well. It couldnt be exined by any stretch of the imagination. It was impossible, no matter how much of a damn genius he was. There was definitely, <em>definitely</em> something I didnt know. Something the world didnt know.


    What about the dude who has me subdued with a single hand?


    The Demon King snickered. I couldnt see his face, but I could feel it. It was fascinating. His face was as shadowy as ever, but I could feel that he was smiling. An image sketched itself out in my head. Two shadowy eyes and rising corners of the mouth with red lips in the middle.


    Dude? Did you just call me dude?


    You cant expect respect when youve given none yourself. You were the one who talked down on me first.


    Youre an interesting one. Do you not fear death?


    Of course I did. I had a lot to lose now. There were people I had to protect, happiness I wanted to protect. I didnt want to die.


    If you had wanted to kill me, you would have done it long ago.


    I see youre perceptive.


    Kang Sun-ils moniker was Demon King. The reason he was called King instead of Demon or Devil was because he had the charisma and personality to merit the title, despite being the massively powerful incarnation of evil itself.


    He kills servile people without mercy.


    However


    He allows people with aspirations, people who stand tall and proud, to live.


    Of the many heroes who faced off against the Demon King, many of them were captured by the Demon King and then released. That was the kind of Demon King the public knew. That was why I thought in advance about how I should act when I met the Demon King and always kept this scenario in the back of my mind.


    Is the reason why youre so calm because youre a Precognitive Dream user?


    I knew I would meet you.


    Since when?


    Since a very long time.


    I had known ever since I regressed, and that nebulous possibility congealed into certainty when Eye of Perception was disabled back on the 2nd Floor of Gwanghwamun D-Tower.


    It felt like a foreign <em>something</em> was running its tongue down my body, like a giant monster was licking me. The Demon King Kang Sun-il was observing me.


    He snickered again.


    Youre a fun one.


    He put me down on the ground, and I coughed roughly in spite of myself.


    Do you want to live?


    Of course.


    And if I dont permit that?


    Then Ill have to fight for my life.


    If we fought, I would be crushed. The current me could not defeat the Demon King.


    If I allow you to live here, what can you do for me?


    I already knew the answer the Demon King wanted to hear. An in-depth study had been done on the domination Kang Sun-il pursued. He liked the strong. Whether they were woman or man, young or old.


    I will be stronger.


    Kang Sun-il grinned. I saw an illusion of big red lips appearing in midair, dripping red saliva as they curled into a grin.


    You say youll be stronger. How strong?


    He put a dagger to my neck, the de sharp and keen. This dagger glowing blue in the darkness was likely the Lamentation that reaped the lives of countless heroes in the past. Of course, even that name was just one that people came up with.


    Youve aroused my interest. That demands a high price. Answer mehow strong do you intend on bing?


    Strong enough to make you, the person reigning as the strong one right now, kneel.


    Or


    Or strong enough to be a fierce de you can trust.


    I hadnt been able to decide yet whether I wanted to confront the Demon King or not. I needed to give him an answer that would leave both routes open.


    [The Courageous Lion King is satisfied by your aspiration.]


    [The Whispering Devil is enjoying himself.]


    [The Nameless Observer is observing.]


    [The Barrier of Blue Light wants to protect you.]


    A bluish energy covered my body. Kang Sun-il withdrew the dagger hed ced at my neck.


    Youre truly amusing. The Barrier of Blue Light is protecting you. After looking at me again in amusement, the Demon King continued. Do you remember seeing me in Gwanghwamun D-Tower?


    You disabled my innate ability back then as well. I remember.


    It almost seems like you have been prepared to meet me from that moment on.


    I just didnt know it would be today.


    It seems youre liked by many Guardians.


    ...


    His next sentence was deeply profound.


    Do not trust the Guardians too much.


    A lot of Guardians had to be watching Senias channel right now, and Kang Sun-ils Streamer had to be somewhere too. Was it really okay to carelessly say something like that?


    Guardians with perverted dispositions would probably like hearing his words, but everyone knew that making a deration that so openly rejected the Guardians wasnt very favorable for a yer. And yet, Kang Sun-il didnt seem all that concerned.


    Try your best to be strong, then.


    He put a hand into his pocket.


    Huh?


    When his hand re-emerged, it was clutching Darongi, who had [!!!] marks above his head. I had no idea when the little rascal crawled in there, but I immediately tensed.


    Darongi stared at me with [???] marks,pletely oblivious to how much danger he was in. This brat, he should read the opponent a little. My heart began to thump involuntarily.


    If he tightens his hand


    Darongi would explode. There was no doubt. I saw veins bulging on the right hand holding on tightly to Darongi. I eyed that hand warily, every cell of my body tense.


    The veins are ck.


    Kang Sun-il handed Darongi back to me.


    Hes cute, so I just let him be. Ill give you what he stole as a gift.


    I heard a notice.


    [A new item hase into Darongis Inventory.]


    [Check Darongis Inventory?]


    Kang Sun-il said, Ive asked you to try bing stronger. I see that you have more than enough qualifications to do so. Be stronger.


    ...


    He added one more, extremely insidious sentence.


    If you can get out of here alive, that is.


    * * *


    * * *


    The next instant, he disappeared. It was almost as if I had seen an illusion. He simply vanished like a mirage.


    At the same time, I heard a notice.[Eye of Perception has been reactivated.]


    That, at least, was good. The forcibly suspended Eye of Perception started working again.


    I cant feel the Pearl Centipedes.


    I couldnt feel a single trace of the Pearl Centipedes that were supposed to be here. Up until my meeting with the Demon King, their presences were faint, but there. Not anymore.


    There are no Pearl Centipedes, but


    I sensed a far bigger energy. It felt like something huge was staring at me. Like something was ring at me from the darkness, far in the distance.


    All the Pearl Centipedes fled.


    They had all disappeared, fleeing from a far more vicious predator higher on the food chain. I recalled thest words spoken by the Demon King.


    <em>If you can get out of here alive, that is.</em>


    Dammit.


    It seemed that this ce wasnt inhabited solely by the Pearl Centipedes. I didnt know if the Demon King had a hand in it, or if this was how the System originally had it. The important thing right now was that there was a predator higher than the Pearl Centipedes here.


    A monster that eats the Pearl Centipedes.


    Like their name suggested, Pearl Centipedes were centipede insects that had pearls. The most famous monster that preyed on them was the Predator Tree, a nt monster that extended countless branches to capture and consume insect monsters.


    Its the perfect environment for a Predator Tree to show up.


    Predator Trees despised sunlight. They were 3-meter-tall trees that walked around. They liked dark, underground ces and preferred environments with sufficient humidity. Even better if there was a little venttion.


    It was part of my study notes, too.


    <em>Predator Tree. Has a habit of ambushing Pearl Centipede habitats and nesting there. Likes ces with good venttion. Level around 40, is capable of eating a Great Orc Warrior alive, and has extremely high defense, making it almost impossible for a yer of the same level to solo it.</em>


    It was nearly impossible to hunt solo due to its sturdy bark.


    <em>The Predator Tree makes a strange gghhh sound as it moves.</em>


    I heard sounds from afar.


    Gghhhh!


    Gghhhh!


    Gghhhh!


    <em>Also, when a Predator Tree moves, faint vibrations ur around it.</em>


    Even without Eye of Perception, I could feel the faint vibrations under my feet.


    A Predator Tree ising.


    I didnt have the skill to freely escape the gate like the Demon King had.


    <em>When a yer of the same or lower level is facing a Predator Tree one on one, not resisting and standing still will increase the chances of survival. When full, Predator Trees will not go after humans.</em>


    Gghhhh


    Gghhhh


    The sound grew louder.


    Rumble


    Rumble


    The vibrations grew more and more intense. I started being able to faintly make out the 3-meter-tall, walking tree monster, the Predator Tree. I saw its enormous gaping mouth gleaming with an ominous red light, as well as the wooden branches swaying around it.


    If I face it head-on, Ill die.


    I had no intention of fleeing.


    <em>When hungry, the Predator Tree moves with its mouth open. The mouth on the tree trunk is characterized by its ominous red light.</em>


    It was hungry right now. This level 40 monster could swing its branches like a whip far faster than I could run.


    I will get out of here alive.


    I never even thought that a level 40 monster would show up here. No, I failed to think that. But even so, I had zero desire to go belly up and die here. The moment I thought a Predator Tree might be here, I had a hunch that I would be fighting it.


    Its still better than fighting Kang Sun-il.


    The chances I could kill this thing were 50/50.


    Even so.


    I could do it. The battle was a toss up anyway. It woulde down to me winning, or this tree winning.


    Ill kill it.


    I shouted, Choi Sung-gu! Now!

 Chapter 104

    Chapter 104


    After hunting the Orcanthropes, Song Kiyeol said this:


    <em>I have already promised you that. I will prepare it immediately. Useless oil items also came out, but do you want those as well?</em>


    That item was Orc Chimera Oil.


    [Orc Chimera Oil]


    Oil that can be obtained from Orc-based chimera monsters. This mmable substance only reacts to magicing directly from the hand of a magician. However, caution is advised, as the temporary destructive power is so strong it may inflict great damage to the one creating the magical me. A fire created from Orc Chimera Oil can only be extinguished by magic.<ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    Creates a very powerful explosion whening in contact with poison-attributeponents.</li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    The intensity of the explosion rises in proportion to the concentration of poison.</li></ul>


    Valid time: 3 months


    Kiyeol called this a useless oil item. It was understandable, since fire magicians were not only rare, but also very unlikely to use this oil while risking injury to themselves. Its expiration date was only three months.


    However, it wasnt useless right now. Choi Sung-gu clenched his teeth.


    Itll be fine, right?


    He had already sshed Orc Chimera Oil all over the ce.


    Ill be fine, but


    To be honest, he couldnt help but worry. He had the title effect of Person of Fire, plus the protection of the Giant of the Sunset. He also had an extremely high affinity with fire. But Kim Hyukjin was different.


    Ah, whatever. Im sure itll be fine.


    Fire instantly appeared in his palm.


    He said I need to light it directly with my hand, right?


    He counted down in his heart.


    Hyukjin said to slowly count from 10 after his shout.


    10. 9. 8. 7. 6. 5. 4. 3. 2. 1.


    Now!


    Sung-gu touched his me to the oil that only reacted to magic me, the Orc Chimera Oil. A booming explosion instantly went off, and mes surged up. The wind happened to be blowing in Hyukjins direction, and an enormous inferno swelled up, rushing down the passageway in the winds direction.


    Ngh!


    His clothes caught fire, and Sung-gu coughed from the smoke. The explosive power was insane. A slightly acrid smell he couldnt tell was oil or gas permeated the cave.


    Goddamn, its hot.


    The entire cave turned into a sea of me. If a fiery hell existed, it would probably look something like this. The ming hell that had taken over the entire cave raged with heat so intense it could easily melt down a few people in seconds.


    Hyukjin is fine, right?


    Hyukjin had nned this. Sung-gu decided to trust the n. He headed towards Hyukjin.


    Hyukjin!


    The mes were so intense they obscured his vision. He could only see about one meter in front of him. Thankfully, the path wasnt forked. He just had to go straight.


    Kim Hyukjin!


    His heart stirred with a little urgency.


    Where are you? Youre okay, right?!


    * * *


    * * *


    Kim Hyukjin shouted, Choi Sung-gu! Now!


    The Predator Tree reacted to the sound, shooting a branch towards Hyukjin as if throwing a snare.


    <em>Slice!</em>


    Hyukjin swung his sword and cut away the branch whizzing towards him.


    Ten seconds.


    He told Sung-gu to count down from ten before lighting the fire. It would be a massive me capable of swallowing even its creator. By now, the entire cave should be drenched in Orc Chimera Oil.


    Hyukjin immediately used an item.


    [Hobgoblin Perfume]


    A perfume hobgoblins apply when ying tricks. It enables a special Stealth. However, overlyrge movements will cancel the spirit art.


    Effect: Transparency spirit art


    Duration: 3 minutes


    Uses: 1


    This item, which he acquired from hunting the Thin Hobgoblin, enabled a transparency spirit art. The Predator Tree was reliant on the same senses as humans.


    Hyukjins body immediately vanished.


    The spirit art will be dispelled if I move too fast.


    The mes would soone roaring in. He gave Sung-gu ten seconds. In just a few seconds, a literal firestorm created by Orc Chimera Oil and Sung-gu would overtake this cave.


    Hyukjin moved very slowly, step by careful step.


    Gghhh!


    Gghhh!


    The Predator Trees branches swayed in confusion. The prey that had been right in front of its eyes moments ago had disappeared. Hyukjin carefully bent to pick up a rock, then threw it into the direction he had walked from.


    <em>Clink!</em>


    The stone nged against the cave wall.


    Gghhh!


    Gghhh!


    The Predator Tree rushed towards the sound, and Hyukjins eyes followed the monster as it approached. If he collided into the monster by mistake, the spirit art would be canceled. He carefully assessed the trajectory of its movement and determined that he would barely avoid grazing it. Cold sweat ran down his back.


    Lets stay put.


    Gghhh!


    Gghhh!


    The Predator Tree swept a hairsbreadth past Hyukjin, rushing towards the ce where the stone had fallen, the ce with the corpses created by Pearl Centipedes.


    Three seconds now.


    <em>Fwoooosh!</em>


    mes shot up. A firestorm raged in, fueled by the Orc Chimera Oil he and Sung-gu had dispersed all over the ce. After very carefully sneaking up on the Predator Tree, Hyukjin sprayed Orc Chimera Oil onto the monsters body. He also sshed plenty of oil on the corpses.


    His movements were too sudden, it seemed.


    [Excessive movement has been detected.]


    [The spirit art is being dispelled.]


    Hyukjin became visible again, and the Predator Tree recognized that he was behind it.


    Gghhhh!


    The mouth in the middle of the Predator Trees trunk swiveled automatically to its back in a motion that was the parallel of a humans head rotating 180 degrees.


    The Predator Tree extended its branches.


    <em>mp!</em>


    As branches grabbed Hyukjins wrists and ankles, mes traveled up the Predator Trees body. Despite its considerable agony, it raised Hyukjin into the air to swallow him whole. Knowing the more he resisted, the faster it would move to consume him, Hyukjin didnt resist. He intentionally went limp in its grasp.


    Sung-gu will call me.


    That would confuse the Predator Tree a little more. From the viewpoint of the Predator Tree, it would be like an enemy suddenly appearing from the sea of mes so intense they were impossible to see through.


    Gghhh!


    Gghhh!


    You just have to make a fuss like usual, Sung-gu.


    Originally, this trap was meant to kill the Pearl Centipedes. However, it was more than capable of killing the Predator Tree as well. That was because Hyukjin had the Rot Water he obtained in advance from the Poison Witch.


    His ankle touched the Predator Trees mouth.


    As slowly as a snake swallowing its prey, the Predator Tree persisted in swallowing Hyukjin despite the agony of being covered in mes.


    Just then, Sung-gus voice rang out.


    Kim Hyukjin! Where are you? Youre okay, right?!


    The cave was nowpletely full of fire. The Predator Tree flinched. Hyukjin didnt miss that very tiny opening, a fraction of a second. He raised his foot a little and kicked the Predator Trees trunk, pushing his body a little further away from the monster. Then, he curled up his body as much as possible while still dangling in the air.


    Sung-gu! You huddle up, too! he shouted.


    Sung-gu had absorbed the Vulcan Body Tome, so he would probably be fine even if he didnt curl up, but it was still best to be safe than sorry.


    The next moment, there was a huge explosion.


    <em>BOOOOM!</em>


    It was like a massive bomb went off.


    Sung-gu hastily dropped to the ground with a yelp, curling up to minimize his exposure to the explosion.


    The huge explosion was a stunning finale to the zing firestorm prelude.


    After some time, Sung-gu shakily got up.


    Wowee, seriously. Thought I was in a frickin sauna or something.


    Then, he approached Hyukjin.


    Oi, Hyukjin. Youre okay, right?


    ...


    Hyukjiny on the ground, unmoving.


    Hey! Hyukjin! You alright? Youre alright, yeah? Fuck. Youre not dead, are you?


    Still prone, Hyukjin raised a hand, putting a finger to his lips as if to tell Sung-gu to shut up. He healed himself with Cure and Constitution Potions.


    Phew, you scared me. I thought you were dead. Whyd you do things so recklessly? And what was that tree monster just now?


    A monster around level 40.


    Wha?


    Sung-gus body trembled. He hastily looked around.


    Fuck! Whered it go?


    You hunted it just now.


    Me? When?


    Now that he thought of it, he had a fuzzy recollection of hearing a notice. He was so focused on finding out if Hyukjin was okay, so busy checking if Hyukjin was alive or dead, that he wasnt able to pay attention to it. Now that he had collected his wits, he remembered hearing it.


    Predator Tree?


    Yeah. The Predator Tree you killed.


    Sung-gus mouth closed. It was because he knew what Hyukjin was doing right now.


    Hes exining to the Guardians.


    A level 40 monster. That was a foe that should be nearly impossible to kill with two people in the early 30s. Moreover, the process had reduced Hyukjin to such a wreck.


    How in hell did I kill it?


    Sung-gu was curious, too. Hyukjin opened his mouth.


    We made use of the Orc Chimera Oils special trait.


    Special trait?


    It causes a powerful explosion when ites in contact with poison.


    You had poison with you?


    But wait, if Hyukjin had poison with him, he should have exploded, too. Sung-gu blinked, baffled.


    There were several corpses created by Pearl Centipedes.


    Corpses?


    Sung-gu tilted his head.


    Wait a sec, youre saying?


    Yeah. We made use of dposition poison. The bodies of the people killed by the Pearl Centipedes were filled with strong dposition poison.


    That wasnt all. Hyukjin had increased the explosive power even more with the addition of Rot Water, a liquid that created poison by dposing something. This item, which was especially effective on corpses, could be produced by poison sses.


    So basically, you lured that Predator Tree or whatever its called this way, let it get covered in mes, and then finished it off with an explosion using dposition poison?


    Yeah.


    You could have died, too.


    But I didnt.


    Werent you closer to the explosion than me?


    I was.


    Without that, they wouldnt have been able to kill the Predator Tree.


    It was 50/50 to begin with. Came down to whether I lived or it died. Thats all.


    You crazy bastard. Theres no doubt, youre really gone in the head. I at least have a title called Person of Fire! Do you even have something like that?


    Hyukjin gave a casual nod. I do.


    I knew it, you dont! Without a fire resistance title like Huh? You do?


    ...


    Sung-gu stared at Hyukjin in bafflement. He didnt think there would be someone else with the Person of Fire title, much less the sovereign Kim Hyukjin. Who would have thought that someone who didnt even have a fire ss, but a sovereign ss, would have this title?


    Sung-gu shook his head.


    I really gotta wonder if youre a crazy bastard after all.


    His mood lifted. It hadnt even been long since he met Hyukjin, but he became happy anyway. He was happy Hyukjin was alright, that he had the Person of Fire title, everything.


    You really are a mad.


    ...


    Surely you dont have a higher fire affinity or resistance than me, do you?


    Having fully recovered, Hyukjin got to his feet. The way he patted himself down made it seem like he had just gone on a light jog around the neighborhood.


    After mumbling, Jeez, good thing Im on the same team as this monster, Sung-gu changed the subject. Hey, you monster. That means I just killed a level 40 monster, right?


    Yeah.


    Holy shit. What the hell? My EXPs nearly gone up to half! Its been going up super fucking slowtely.


    Hyukjinughed. He didnt expect they would be able to kill a Predator Tree here. With the stacked effects of Observers Domain and his title, Hyukjin also reaped a handsome amount of EXP.


    Im almost at level 31, too.


    It was extremely difficult to raise ones level in the Hell Phase without a strategy. Even people with top-notch talent went up only one or two levels in three months, after all.


    [The Whispering Devil is having fun.]


    [The Nameless Observer is impressed by your quick wit.]


    [The Giant of the Sunset expresses slight interest in you.]


    Even the Giant of the Sunset showed a little interest in him now, a fairly big change from before. Originally, to the Giant of the Sunset, Hyukjin was just a thief who stole rewards that should have gone to my favorite.


    Just then, Hyukjin heard a notice even he hadnt expected.[The Nameless Observer wishes to grant you a favor.]

 Chapter 105

    Chapter 105


    [The Nameless Observer wishes to grant you a favor.]


    [The yer can refuse the favor if they so desire.]


    The Nameless Observer was a Guardian who typically dislikeding out in the open. But just like people, Guardians couldnt be defined in one word, either. Although they normally stuck to observing, the Nameless Observer was fully capable of making a move when needed. I just hadnt thought they would do so right now.


    Favor?


    I immediately took a look.


    [Favor 1]<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    A favor the Nameless Observer invested a great number of Coins to bestow.</li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    Will allow the yer to open the Item Shop one grade higher than the current grade.</li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    The Item Shop can be opened regardless of location.</li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    Valid only for 5 minutes after epting Favor 1.</li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    There are no disadvantages to the yer if they refuse.</li></ol>


    I would be able to open the Intermediate Item Shop despite being in a gate.


    Why did they give me this here?


    The message mentioned that a great number of Coins had been invested, which meant this was a significant Coin sink even for the Nameless Observer. I couldnt figure out why they suddenly wanted to give me this privilege.


    Doesnt look like theres any downsides to epting, but


    Had I be the Nameless Observers favorite, so to speak? Like how Choi Sung-gu was the Giant of the Sunsets favorite?


    No idea.


    I didnt know, but I put that aside for now. There could be something I was missing. I was suddenly reminded that Darongi sessfully stole something from the Demon King earlier.[A new item hase into Darongis Inventory.]


    At that time, the Demon King said, Hes cute, so I just let him be. Ill give you what he stole as a gift. As well as, Ive asked you to try bing stronger. I see that you have more than enough qualifications to do so. Be stronger.


    I immediately checked Darongis Inventory. The Demon King had basically given me a gift. If he hadnt desired it, Darongi wouldnt have been able to steal it from him.


    [Fusestone]


    A stone that can fuse an items power into a yers body. It has been fully refined and is ready for fusion. The sess or failure of the fusion may depend on the Item type and the yers physical constitution.


    Level requirement: 30


    Valid time: 15 minutes


    My mouth dropped wide open.


    Whats wrong? Something happen?


    ...


    Sung-gu tilted his neck. Shortly afterward, he took a few steps away from me.


    Mm. Is it something I shouldnt butt into? Not waiting for a response, he sat down, his back to the cave wall. He drew circles in the ground with his finger and even sang a stupid little song. Im the loner Sung-gu~ I have~ no friends~ little Hyukjin~ is busy~ so he wont y~ with me~


    He nced at me. My mouth quickly shut. He was a bit of a clown, but the kid was certainly quick on the uptake. He was implicitly telling me he wouldnt get in the way.


    The Demon King gave me a <em>Fusestone</em>?


    Fusetone. This was an item even more precious than the mana crystal I currently possessed, so rare Rankers would go in and out of the very dangerous Seokguram Dungeon to obtain it in the far-off future.


    Its value cant be measured with money.


    It was such a rare stone that it couldnt be traded to begin with. This stone would fuse an items power into a yers body. In other words, using it would merge an item in my body.


    If I fused a sword with 50 attack power into my body


    No matter what weapon I picked up, +50 attack power would automatically be added.


    Or a ne with 5 Agility


    Id get a permanent +5 AGI.


    Its even been fully refined.


    Fusestones couldnt be used as is. They had to be refined first. However, once they were refined, they would start to oxidize. More and more of the stone would disappear as it came in contact with the oxygen in the air, and once the valid time ended, it would bepletely gone.


    14 minutes left.


    I had to figure out how to use this Fusestone within 14 minutes. The Nameless Observer had picked this moment to use a massive amount of Coins to allow me to open the Intermediate Item Shop. That meant there was something the Nameless Observer wanted to see.


    While I was thinking, Darongi ran around with [!!!] marks popping up over his head. There were apparently things hidden within the cave. However, I had no time to pay much attention to the little squirrel right now.


    13 minutes left.


    Even if you had a Fusestone, it didnt mean you could merge everything and anything into your body.


    The things with the highest chance of sess are essories.


    Because Fusestones were so precious, when using them, yers chose the type of items that granted the highest fusion sess chance.


    An essory


    * * *


    * * *


    I just so happened to have a fairly decent essory on me.


    [Legs Ring]


    A ring made by refining a topaz that holds a mysterious power.


    Defense: 1


    Effect: 2% attack damage HP absorption.


    This was the trump card I prepared to easily get through the 30-40 period, the Hell Phase. I had obtained the rings by hunting as many Monster Rabbits as possible.


    Ever since I got the Observer ss, I had been wondering how I should use these items to my greatest advantage. I realized what it was that the Nameless Observer wanted to see from me.


    Senia. Starting now, Im going into item enhancement.


    Here? Senia gave me her advice. Enhancement requires talent and luck, neither of which can be controlled by a yer. However


    You want to say I <em>can </em>control factors like the timing, location, and my concentration.


    Yes. I believe the assistance of the field yed a big role in the reason why you were able to sessfully enhance the Wind Shoes.


    Youre not wrong.


    Talent was inborn, and luck waspletely up to chance. Neither of them were things I could control, but other factors, the environmental ones, were things I could. Senia wasnt wrong; this ce wasnt really suitable for enhancement. However, there were only 12 minutes left in the Fusestones timer.


    But this isnt the time for that.


    I shared what I had just gotten. Senias wings quivered.


    Fusestone!


    Notices instantly streamed in.


    [The Merchant of Venice is shocked.]


    [The Whispering Devil is amused.]


    [The Barrier of Blue Light wishes to protect you.]


    A blue magic circle appeared under my feet. The Barrier of Blue Light could bebeled a helicopter parent, it seemed. As soon as I moved to start enhancing here, they made a barrier to protect me, though it would have been nice if they had also extended that protection to Sung-gu while they were at it.


    Well, Guardians are strictly restricted from direct interference.


    I was very thankful that they had done even this much.


    I publicized the entire process. I would show the Guardians everything via Senia. Right now, right here, I would show them how I yed and how well I could satisfy their desires.


    I wont let the opportunity given to me by the Nameless Observer slip through my fingers.


    I immediately opened the Intermediate Item Shop.


    As expected.


    It was different from when Senia forcibly opened the shop for me in the past. As expected of a Guardian, the Intermediate-grade shop that was opened by a Guardians power and discretion did not impose the penalty I faced before.


    [Item Shop - Intermediate-grade - Enhancement]<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    Low Enhancement Crystal 2,000 Coins</li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    Medium Enhancement Crystal 3,000 Coins</li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    Element Affinity Powder 1,000 Coins</li></ol>


    Last time, I was forced to buy these items for a whopping 10x the regr price. Not this time. There was no doubt that the Nameless Observer had undertaken the penalty in my stead.


    I will show you guys what you want.


    The +1 was up first. Medium Enhancement Crystals werent needed for the first enhancement.


    [Low Enhancement Crystal purchased.]


    [-2,000 Coins]


    [Low Enhancement Crystal purchased.]


    [-2,000 Coins]


    The Legs Ring didnt really have an element, but everyone knew using Element Affinity Powder would still be helpful for the enhancement.


    [Element Affinity Powder purchased.]


    [-1,000 Coins]


    That was 5,000 Coins in total. I jumped straight into the first enhancement.


    I was lucky back then.


    I recalled the time when I enhanced the Wind Shoes. The sess rate for +1 was normally 90%. With Element Affinity Powder, that was pushed to nearly 100%. But thanks to the field attribute bonus, I got a sess rate of 140%.


    Im not expecting the same luck this time.


    I couldnt always y while hoping to be lucky. Luck was fickle, to an extent. The Legs Ring started being enhanced.


    [Calcting the +1 enhancement sess rate.]


    [+1 enhancement sess rate: 120%]


    What? Another 120%.


    [Element Affinity Powder increases sess rate by 10%.]


    [+1 enhancement sess rate: 130%]


    The notices were the same as before, even though the Master of Enhancement Lukas said even he didnt have a 100% sess rate all the time.[Enhancing Legs Ring.]


    [Congrattions!]


    [The enhancement was sessful!]


    [Legs Ring has been enhanced to Legs Ring +1.]


    The first enhancement was a sess.


    Another blue enhancement?


    If enhancement craftsmen or the German Master of Enhancement Lukas were to see this, they might have passed out. A person with no special knowledge about enhancement working in a ce that wasnt even specialized for enhancement managed to pull off <em>another</em> blue grade.


    For the second enhancement, I needed a whopping 10 Low Enhancement Crystals. The number of enhancement crystals needed increased exponentially the higher you went.


    Gotta invest when you gotta invest.


    The Guardians were probably watching with bated breath, each of them curious to see how well a level 30 non-production ss yer / non-enhancement yer could perform.


    I moved on to the 2nd enhancement without dy.


    Holy shit.


    The +2 sess rate should be around 90%. But the rate calcted for me was still 120%. The Element Affinity Powder added 10%.


    Blue, again?


    Getting another blue wasnt guaranteed just because you were enhancing a blue item. In fact, it was far moremon for blues to be enhanced down to a regr grade.


    Im the one doing it, but


    I could no longer look at this as simple luck.


    Ill go all the way to +3.


    I couldnt go to +4 and up anyway. For +4 enhancement, you either had to be level 40 or up, or receive the help of a craftsman ss yer.


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas is observing you with bated breath.]


    [The Barrier of Blue Light is pleased.]


    [The Whispering Devil feels regret.]


    [The Lady of the Scales is showing great interest.]


    [The Nameless Observer is continuing to observe.]


    The Guardians sent me a full fleet of five messages, the maximum that could be sent at one time. They, too, were focusing on this moment.


    The normal +3 sess rate is about 80%.


    The rate swung wildly from person to person, but the statistical average was about 80%.


    From +3 on, failure will break the item.


    But I didnt hesitate. I had nine Legs Rings. It was more than worth it to go for the investment.


    Huh?


    This time, the sess rate was set at 100%. It didnt go beyond 100% like the previous two enhancements, but it was still a guaranteed sess.


    [Enhancing Legs Ring.]


    [Congrattions!]


    [The enhancement was sessful!]


    [Legs Ring has been enhanced to Legs Ring +3.]


    I checked the item.


    [Legs Ring +3]


    A ring made by refining a topaz that holds a mysterious power.


    Defense: 3


    Effect: 2.3% attack damage HP absorption.


    Special effect: Can use the special skill Absorption Ring.


    I was speechless for a while. My eyes saw it clearly. The Legs Ring was sparkling, the name of the item the color beyond bluepurple.


    What in the world is this?


    I never learned how to enhance, didnt satisfy any special conditions, and didnt have a special skill like craftsmen did. I only enhanced using themon stuff sold in the Item Shop.


    But a purple grade popped out?


    And it even had a special effect tacked on. I was already very familiar with this Absorption Ring effect. Still, I needed to check it. Because what I was doing right now wasnt just enhancement, but fusion. I had to consider enhancing a different item and going with that instead, if needed.


    Absorption Ring.


    I opened up the exnation for the new special skill.

 Chapter 106

    Chapter 106


    I opened up the exnation for the new special skill.


    [Absorption Ring]


    Absorbs all physical damage for 0.5 seconds. Only applies when the attacker dealing the physical damage is under level 50. The absorbed damage will be converted to HP, and the item will be destroyed.


    This was the new skill that appeared upon achieving a purple enhancement.


    All physical damage taken over 0.5 seconds is converted to HP.


    As long as you used the skill with good timing, you could easily bypass an opponents finishing movefor example, something like Yeonseos Single Hit Finisherwithout taking any damage.


    Its a more advanced ability than the Great Orc Warrior set effect.


    It wasnt simply blocking, but HP absorbing. The effective time was extremely short, but as long as I used it at the right time, it would have an incredible effect.


    I turned to Senia. Im going to start fusion now.


    There were only five minutes left on the Fusestones timer.


    I dont know how high the sess rate is.


    I also didnt know what I had to do to increase it. Fusestones were simply far too foreign a concept for regr people or yers. They were rare treasures that were known only in theory and encountered only in textbooks.


    I guess the only thing I can do to increase the sess rate is to control my thoughts.


    I examined the Fusestone with Observers Eye, but I couldnt find any hints. I just had the feeling that being confident I could do it was necessary.


    I can do it.


    I repeated the words in my mind.


    I can do it.


    I was different from the past me who couldnt do anything. Now, <em>I </em>was the one who would draw out my own future. I could do it.


    I can do it.


    After several rounds of mental convincing, I used the Fusestone without dy.


    [Use the Fusestone?]


    [Please select the item you wish to fuse with the Fusestone.]


    A square slot appeared in front of my eyes, visible only to me. It seemed I just had to choose and insert the item I wanted in the slot.


    [Select the Legs Ring +3?]


    [Fusing the Legs Ring +3 into the yers body using the Fusestone.]


    My body began to sparkle. I never expected I would experience a phenomenon that applied to the highest level yers in the beginner period. It wasnt just a new feeling; it was downright shocking.


    [Fusion has begun.]


    [Some time is required.]


    I had a hunch.


    During this time I shouldnt drop my focus.


    I couldnt just leave it to the System. No one taught me what to do, but I sat down cross-legged and closed my eyes. There might still be Pearl Centipedes somewhere, but Choi Sung-gu was here. I decided to trust him.


    [Meditating with Observers Eye.]


    I turned my gaze inwards to see how the Fusestone was operating in my body, what kind of flow there was inside of me. The sensation was a little different from looking with my eyes. My eyes were closed, but I could feel the flow of mana.


    Is this how the meditation the top yers mentioned feels?


    It was still hazy. I couldnt feel it clearly, and the sensation of closing my eyes and looking inward was none too familiar, either. However, I was starting to get an idea of what it was like.


    The feeling of foreign energying into my body


    I followed the path the energy was traveling. I couldnt control anything, but I focused on those strands of energy while repeating a mantra in my heart.


    I can do it!


    Time passed. I heard a notice.


    [Congrattions!]


    [The fusion was sessful!]


    * * *


    * * *


    Sung-gu wanted to ask, but he held it in.


    Just what the hell is this monster up to?


    He stayed right next to Hyukjin the whole time, just in case any monsters attacked. He almost started talking to himself, but he shut his mouth, not wanting to break Hyukjins concentration.


    His body was shining earlier.


    There were three shes of light.


    Is that crazy focus for real?


    It looked like he was meditating, but how could he be so deep in meditation inside agate, of all ces? There was no knowing when a monster would pop out, but Hyukjin was as calm as a pool of still water. His slow, measured breathing told Sung-gu he wasnt dead, but he sure looked like it.


    He really is crazy. This guys definitely not human.


    Sung-gu shook his head. He didnt think he could for the life of him have that level of focus and recklessness. Though that was what he thought to himself, Choi Sung-gus ability to focus was rather considerable as well. Hyukjin was too defenseless at the moment, so Sung-gu devoted his full focus to carefully watching the surroundings. He didnt have an eye like Hyukjin, but he didnt let down his guard.


    After some more time passed, a purple light blossomed from Hyukjins body, and his eyes shed open.


    Woah! Jeez! You scared the bejeebers out of me.


    Hyukjin got up and looked around.


    Any monsters?


    Nope.


    That so?


    Yeah. Maybe cause of the blue light under your feet, I didnt see a single trace of a monster. But dude, what the hell was that? Howe your body was all shy-shy earlier, and this time, you had all that purple lighting from you?


    Hyukjinughed. Sung-gus eyes were sparkling with immense curiosity.


    It was nothing much. I just sessfully enhanced an item and absorbed that item in my body.


    Wut? Sung-gus head tilted. Enhancement? Something like that exists?


    Yeah, it does. Though it hasnt really been released yet.


    How did you do something that hasnt been released yet?


    You just have to do it.


    Sung-gu made a dumbfounded look. Just do it, he said. Were those words, or hieroglyphs? It was just like a math whiz saying Math? Just solve it. Just then, Sung-gu realized something.


    Hes not talking with me right now.


    It was true that Hyukjin was sharing information with him, a team member, but there was no doubt that Hyukjin was actually exining what had happened to the Guardians right now.


    Ive got to keep the questions going so it looks natural, right?


    Sung-gu innocently asked, Then whats with absorption?


    I fused a ring.


    Fused?


    Yeah. Thanks to that, I got a special skill.


    Hyukjin heard notices.


    [The skill of the fused item has been confirmed.]


    [Due to the sessful fusion, the items skill will be converted to the yers skill.]


    [Checking the degree of fusion andpatibility between the items skill and the yers body.]


    And the results of thepatibility check were:


    [Thepatibility has been evaluated as perfect.]


    [The optimal conditions for absorbing the items power have been met.]


    [The special skill Absorption has been generated.]


    Hyukjins mood soared. The Absorption Ring skill attached to the Legs Ring had a fatal w, and that was that it could only be used one time. If you used the skill, the item would be destroyed.


    But not anymore.


    [Absorption]


    Absorbs all physical damage for 0.5 seconds. The absorbed damage is converted to HP.


    Cooldown: 24 hours


    Not only did the level restriction disappear, but the skill was no longer one-time-use, but usable once per day. This astonishing result meant that the degree of fusion between the item and yer was very high and thepatibility was as high as it could be.


    Sung-gu cautiously asked, Can I ask what that skill is?


    Youll find out in due time.


    Hyukjin didnt really intend on keeping it a secret from Sung-gu. Efficient teamy was only possible if your teammates knew what cards you had in store. It was just that Hyukjin was keeping it a secret from the Guardians. He only revealed 70% and kept 30% to himself.


    Sung-gu nodded. Okay. Gotchu. Were gonna clear this ce now, yeah? I want out of this scary cave, plus I think quite a lot of time has passed.


    How long was I sitting down?


    Dunno, like thirty minutes?


    Senia appeared and corrected Sung-gus words.


    It was two hours, twelve minutes, and four seconds.


    Eh? You serious? It was that long? Was it cause I was tense? The time flew goddamn fast.


    Hyukjin nced around. If this ce has the same structure as the gate on Plum Blossom Ind


    The Clear Crystal would be at the end of the cave.


    Originally, we were supposed to catch the Pearl Centipedes.


    Hyukjins real goal was to get the pearls dropped by the Pearl Centipedes. It was an item that would be useful in the U-Plex Dungeon their party had to clear. The sudden appearance of a Predator Tree had kicked his ns slightly off-track.


    For now, I cant sense any Pearl Centipedes nearby.


    He didnt know if that was because they ran away from the Predator Tree, or because they were burned to death by the fire Sung-gu lit.


    Lets look for the Clear Crystal.


    * * *


    The cave was almost the same as the one on Plum Blossom Ind. Hyukjin was able to find the purple Clear Crystal without much difficulty and thus clear the Centipede Cave.


    [The gate Centipede Cave has been cleared.]


    [EXP acquired as a clear reward for the gate Centipede Cave.]


    [An achievement was earned during the clear of the gate Centipede Cave.]


    Sung-gu broke into a grin. Must be cause we killed that strong mothafucker earlier, right? That level 40 dude.


    He got excited. But in the next moment, the excitement on his face froze.[''Map of the Predator Tree Colony acquired.]


    He started shaking his head, his face paling.


    I dont need a map like this. Sung-gu trembled all over. Killing one of them was already so difficult, but a colony? No way. Were not gonna go there, right?


    ...


    Hey, Hyukjin. Please. <em>Please </em>tell me were not going there.


    ...


    Sung-gu looked up to find Hyukjin smiling broadly at him.


    Hey, you crazy sonova bitch. Going to a frickin colony when just one of them nearly fucking killed you is ridiculous. Right? Right? Lets live with somemon sense.


    But even as he spoke, Sung-gu had a hunch. Their sovereign boss would definitely go there, and this map would definitely be used one day.


    Fuuuck


    He should just give up and work hard to learn magic. In the first ce, he never thought of sending Hyukjin there alone. Everything was based on the premise of going together. He would go, yes, but a tearful look appeared on his face.


    I shouldnt have be friends with you.


    Hyukjin ignored Sung-gusining and whining. Even in his past life, Choi Sung-gu was said to whine in a manner that didnt match his me Lord nickname, to the point where people said his whining was proportional to his skills.


    [10,000 Coins acquired as a reward for clearing the gate Centipede Cave.]


    Sung-gu made a fist of excitement. Woohoo!


    In addition to that


    [Centipede Fang acquired as a clear reward.]


    [Pearl Centipede Body acquired as a clear reward.]


    They were given all of the gate clear rewards.[Leaving the gate.]


    The two found themselves back outside. Thanks to Taeguk Shield and the police sealing off the surroundings well, there was no further damage.


    We absolutely need Pearl Centipede pearls in order to go into the U-Plex Dungeon.


    That meant they would still have to go to Plum Blossom Ind. But then, Hyukjin noticed that [!!!] marks were floating above Darongis head, and they were even red.


    A notice came in.[Darongi requests that you open his Inventory.]


    A [] mark appeared on top of the [!!!], and the squirrel was puffing out his chest with pride, obviously proiming his awesomeness with great enthusiasm.

 Chapter 107

    Chapter 107


    [Darongi requests that you open his Inventory.]


    I checked his Inventory.


    [Centipede Pearl]


    A consumable item that greatly increases poison resistance.


    Imparts a particrly strong resilience against insect/snake poison.


    Duration: 360 seconds


    Darongi, you


    I stroked his little head. This thieving genius did it again.


    You brought thirty of these?


    Darongi nodded. But the rascal didnt intend on meekly giving me the Centipede Pearls. Just like when we first met, he wanted something from me.


    Ill give you acorns.


    [!!!] marks appeared above his head at the mention of acorns. I bought them out of curiosity, but it turned out that Darongi went crazy for the things.


    [Darongi wishes to trade with his master.]


    [Tradeplete.]


    The thirty Centipede Pearls in Darongis Inventory were moved to mine. I gave acorns to get Centipede Pearls. He had probably gotten the pearls by digging into the ground and finding the bodies of the Pearl Centipedes, or something like that.


    Impressive.


    At least when it came to thieving, Darongi possessed far higher talent and skill than me.


    In any case, we cleared the Centipede Cave. My preparations for the U-Plex Dungeon were nearlyplete.


    After going back home, I pulled out the notepad and checked the contents once again.


    <em>Late September 2018. Dungeon precursors ur near Hyundai Dept. Store.</em>


    That was what was originally written in the notepad, and after I regressed, I added a detailed exnation.


    <em>Gas leak smells. Ant swarms. Weak tremors.</em>


    Those were the precursors. And then, two days afterwards:


    <em>Sept. 29, 2018. Main door of the U-Plex dungeonizes.</em>


    I told the others that I didnt know when or where the dungeon would form, but I knew it down to the day. I didnt know the time, but the date was September 29.


    <em>Estimated casualties when dungeon first formed: ~800.</em>


    The 800 or so people who were in the U-Plex as it transformed into a dungeon were trapped in it and lost their lives.


    <em>Oct. 3, 2018. Dungeon break.</em>


    We wouldnt be able to clear the U-Plex Dungeon legitimately. A proper clear would only be possible muchter. As expected of a dungeon with a staggering four floors, the clear difficulty was nothing to scoff at. It was nearly impossible for us to clear it without a special strat at our levels.


    After tidying my notes, I turned my thoughts to the strategies, running from the Big ck Dogs on the 1st floor all the way to Noah on the 4th.


    The highest difficulty dungeon that can be cleared in the level 30s.


    Of course, it was only possible if you knew the ins and outs of the strategy. As I said earlier, it was a ce so difficult it could never be cleared by yers in their level 30s without knowing the strategy, though it did have rewards to match.


    Having gotten five acorns and scarfed all of them down, Darongi sat on my head, patted his bulging belly, and fell fast asleep.


    Tomorrow is September 27th, huh.


    There was one day before the precursors began.


    I should prevent what I can.


    That was the right thing to do, especially if they werent even yers but regr people who didnt know anything.


    I will do my best within the scope of what I can do.


    I contacted the Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, Song Kiyeol.


    I have something to tell you. Lets meet up.


    * * *


    * * *


    Song Kiyeol went to President Song Kiyoung with a heavy heart.


    Well then. What happened?


    I have just had a meeting with yer Kim Hyukjin.


    Is that so?


    Song Kiyoung straightened. He was very pleased with his grandsons attitudetely. Kiyeol looked like he was trying to learn a lot from Kim Hyukjin.


    Hm. What will he say?


    He, a grandfather satisfied with his grandsons growth, listened quietly to what Kiyeol had to say and found himself stunned.


    ...He said the U-Plex and Hyundai Department Store operating perfectly fine need to be closed down? Does he know what that would mean? The Intes already having a field day with the reports of gas leaks or whatever as it is.


    Song Kiyeol was a little surprised. Honestly speaking, it wasnt as bad as President Song made it sound. It was just a few people saying they smelled gas in the building and saw an ant swarm, minor stuff like that.


    He wants us to suddenly close our doors? And without being able to give sufficient official notice? Isnt that essentially admitting that theres a problem with the department store? How should wepensate the customers for wasting their timeing to closed doors?


    Song Kiyoung intentionally put a look of rage on his face. From his expression, it looked like he was saying Is this all your discernment amounts to? Will you just nod and bow to everything Kim Hyukjin says?


    Kiyeol felt sweat run down his back, and not because he was scared of his grandfather.


    Kim Hyukjin had said the following:


    <em>President Song will likely say something like how theres not enough time to give sufficient official notice, mention a few signs of dungeon opening, and talk about the time customers wasteding for nothing.</em>


    As if Hyukjin already saw this conversation happen, he even went on to say:


    <em>Hell make himself look very incensed. But as Guildmaster Song knows, that isnt real rage, but a test for you.</em>


    Kiyeol began to see things he hadnt seen before. Meeting Kim Hyukjin had sharpened his insight.


    If Kim Hyukjin is correct, then we will obtain a profit beyond description.


    Even at the cost of losses, they proactively prevented customers froming into harms way, saving many lives. They would be telling the public that Sungshins Taeguk Shield had the ability to predict the future.


    In addition, we will be able to build an even closer rtionship of trust with Kim Hyukjin, the yer who can be called the front-runner of the new culture wave.


    And if Kim Hyukjins words were merely unfounded worries?


    If he was wrong, then we will have obtained a card with which to pressure him.


    You are suggesting closing down the department store with that alone?


    Song Kiyeol recalled Hyukjins words again.


    <em>He will not agree to close down the department store with that alone. Not if hes the President Song Kiyoung I know.</em>


    Kiyeol bit his lips a little. Kim Hyukjin met his grandfather just one time and figured him out to such an extent. Kiyeol had seen his grandfather for thirty years and was only now starting to see the depths of his grandfathers character.


    We will be able to show the public our stance of Livese first, even at the cost of profit and slight nder and reproach.


    ...


    After looking at his grandson for a long while, President Song suddenly burst out in a guffaw.


    Kiyeol. Tell me honestly.


    About what, sir?


    Did youe up with everything you said and thought?


    Kiyeol responded honestly. No, sir. My thoughts are heavily influenced by the conversation I had with Kim Hyukjin.


    I see. I thought as much. Song Kiyoung thought it was very amusing. Kim Hyukjin. Kim Hyukjin, you say.


    He had a background check done, but there wasnt anything all that special about the boy. He was an ordinary person born to an ordinary family, and yet, he was extraordinary.


    How amusing. Alright then. If that ce dungeonizes What do you intend to do with our Taeguk Shield? Surely you arent nning on entrusting everything to Kim Hyukjins party and sitting around sucking your thumbs, no?


    * * *


    I got the news via the Inte. Actually, it didnt balloon into that big of an issue.


    [The Hyundai Department Store in Sinchon suspends operation for a safety inspection.]


    There were a few articles about how people were inconvenienced by the sudden safety inspection.


    Ant swarms have been found, and people also smelled gas. There were also people who imed they felt faint tremors.


    Rumors of that sort popped up on the Inte like urban myths. There was also some talk that the suspension of business might be because of those strange urrences.


    The future is changing once again because of me.


    I wouldnt regret it. I had already finished telling the party everything they had to know. We went around learning the terrain of the dungeon and the Hyundai Department Store, as well as the locations of the esctors. We also had the Centipede Pearls we needed.


    I checked the notepad one more time.


    <em>Sept. 29, 2018. Main door of the U-Plex dungeonizes.</em>


    I prayed that no one would be inside when it happened. No matter how hard Sungshin worked to inform the public, many people woulde without hearing the announcement. Even if people were warned not toe, there were always people who did the opposite of what they were told. We just had to hope there wouldnt be anyone like that.


    The morning of the 29th dawned. Since I didnt know when the U-Plex would turn into a dungeon, we arranged to stand by in the vicinity of the front doors early in the morning.


    Boss Hyukjin. This cell really be a dungeon?


    Hm. My Precognitive Dream said so.


    Precognitive Dream is so fascinating. Ah!


    Yeonseo spotted somehe Golden Priest Gong Jinhoon, as well as the Poison Witch Cheon Sooji.


    Are the Taeguk Shieldersing too?


    Theyve juste to put on a front. Well be the ones doing the clear.


    They were here to show that Taeguk Shield wasnt just sitting on its thumbs, or more precisely, to earn marks from President Song Kiyoung.


    Oppa. Im against that unnie, said Sunhwa, her words full of stubborn determination.


    Yeonseo nodded. Yeah, me too.


    What nonsense were theying up with so early in the morning? I just ignored them and let them be.


    Everyone remember what I said?


    A chorus of yeses met me. I had shared the overall strategy with them while Senia wasnt present. I would of course have to tell them theplete details on-site, but they had a definite outline.


    1st floor.


    The 1st floor was primarily popted by Big ck Dogs. Their levels would probably show up as a ? for me. They were impossible to hunt head-on.


    There will even be a boss monster.


    A monster even stronger than the Big ck Dogs would be there as well. I took deep breaths. It would be alright. We could do it.


    Oh! Oppa, somethings happening to the front doors.


    At 8:40 am, the dungeonization began, starting with the front doors. Notices were sent to all the yers in the vicinity.


    [A dungeon has been generated.]


    [The U-Plex is starting to transform into the U-Plex Dungeon.]


    The U-Plex began dungeonizing as expected, but there was something different from the past.[No humans with lifeforce have been sensed within the U-Plex.]


    That was what I had aimed for, in order to minimize the casualties and to prevent needless ughter.[The activation condition for the U-Plex Dungeon has not been satisfied.]


    But the notice was a little strange. The activation conditions werent satisfied? Did that mean the dungeons activation would be canceled? I felt a lurch of dismay. In my ns, this was a ce we absolutely had to clear.[A System revision is urring to satisfy the activation condition of the U-Plex Dungeon.]


    I made my assessment instantly. The moment I saw the words System revision, I knew what it was. It would increase its range until it collected enough humans with lifeforce.


    I was sure of it.


    [The U-Plex Dungeon is expanding.]


    [The U-Plex Dungeon cannot be forcibly entered from the outside without a special right.]


    In order to swallow and consume living humans to meet the activation conditions, the dungeon began to expand.


    I will


    I could prevent the expansion. I could prevent a portion of the people in Sinchon from being swallowed by the dungeon.


    ...prevent it!

 Chapter 108

    Chapter 108


    [The U-Plex Dungeon cannot be forcibly entered from the outside without a special right.]


    I already had that special entrance right. It was the fair reward my party earned through the bet with the Herdsman of Las Vegas.4. Upon quest clear, you will receive U-Plex Dungeon First Entry Rights.


    Thanks to that, my party members and I had the First Entry Rights and could enter the dungeon while it was activating.


    The dungeon began to expand via a System revision after the [No humans with lifeforce have been sensed within the U-Plex] notice. In other words, as long as there was human lifeforce inside the dungeon, expansion would no longer ur.


    As the notices continued, we entered the U-Plex Dungeon straight away.[Expansion of the U-Plex Dungeon has been suspended.]


    I looked around. It was a fairly bright indoor space with clean marble flooring. It felt like we were on the 1st floor of the U-Plex building, but without all the stores.


    Ah.


    There were people trapped in a giant ss cylinder. Cheon Sooji, Gong Jinhoon, and two civilians were trapped in the container with water up to their chests.


    [Normal entrance has suspended dungeonization.]


    [Normal entrance has suspended the acquisition of lifeforce offerings.]


    The ss shattered with a sharp crack, and Sooji, Jinhoon, and the two ordinary people were able toe out safely.


    If we hadnt blocked the expansion


    Countless people would have most likely been trapped and killed in that ss cylinder in the acquisition of lifeforce offerings.


    There was an Esctor Going to the 2nd Floor near the entrance. It was simr to the one in Gwanghwamun D-Tower from the Tutorial.


    [Esctor Going to the 2nd Floor]


    The esctor going to the 2nd floor of the U-Plex Dungeon. Can transport 15 people at once.


    Cooldown: 20 minutes


    *Currently not in operation (special condition required).


    Yeonseo had her sword drawn. Boss Hyukjin. I see a number.


    It wasnt visible with the physical eye, but all of us were seeing the same number.[3:00:00][2:59:03][2:58:22]


    The time was ticking down by the second. We had been given three minutes.


    Fuck. Weve got three minutes, yeah, but what do we do with those people?


    Having collected their wits, Sooji and Jinhoon walked towards us.


    The Poison Witch, Cheon Sooji.


    The Golden Priest, Gong Jinhoon.


    Theyd been forcibly sucked in because of the sudden expansion process. If we hadnt done a normal entrance, they might have been swallowed alive.


    Should I be thanking you? asked Cheon Sooji.


    Theres no need for that. We simply did something we should. However, Id like it if you didnt hold us back in our raid.


    They didnt know the strategy, and there was no time to exin the particrs now.


    Keep your eyes sharp and do as we do. I wont walk you through it. I rmend absolute obedience to mymands, at least here in the U-Plex Dungeon. I wont take responsibility for your lives.


    I called Yoohyun to me, and he trotted up, saying, Yes, hyungnim.


    Youve got a stun skill, right?


    I do, hyungnim.


    Anyone else have a stun?


    ...


    Only Yoohyun had a stun.


    Make Gong Jinhoon unconscious, I told him in a low voice.


    What?


    Hurry.


    We only had two minutes and twenty seconds left. Once that time reached 0, <em>they</em> woulde swarming in.


    Understood.


    He has to be down for five minutes.


    I-I will do my best to control my strength.


    It would be better to take a small head injury than to die. I also spoke to Sooji.


    Miss Sooji, please listen to me very carefully.


    There wasnt much time before they would appear.


    Even if monsters appear, dont be rmed. We will not resist.


    What does tha


    If its difficult for you, you can close your eyes.


    ...


    Sooji closed her mouth and stared at me. It seemed the timer wasnt visible to her. The remaining time was only shown to us, the people who came in with the special entrance rights.


    Also, Mr. Jinhoon will be knocked unconscious.


    Wh-What? A-Agh!


    <em>Pow!</em>


    Jinhoon crumpled, knockedpletely unconscious by the strike to the back of his head.


    Sung-gu trembled. Ah, fuck His head made a cracking noise. He doesnt have a concussion, does he? Hes not dead, right?


    Yoohyun gave an awkward smile, looking perfectly innocent. I wasnt sure how to make sure he stayed down for five minutes, so I just hit him hard.


    The time continued to tick down. We only had one minute and thirty seconds left.


    Sunghyun. Give me the ck Yak Lean Meat.


    Okay.


    Sunghyun took out the ck Yaks Lean Meat from his Inventory and passed it to me. After leaving the Hill of Blowing Wind, Sunghyun did as I said and cleared the Seoul Station Dungeon several times with the party, acquiring a pile of ck Yaks Lean Meat in the process.


    Go with Yeonseo and keep the people over there calm.


    The two civilians were a young man and a young woman. Two regr Unawakened people had gotten wrapped up in this.


    Hyungnim. Should I also knock them unconscious? I dont think theyll be able to stay quiet.


    Do you wanna kill them?


    The Golden Priest Gong Jinhoon was different. He could recover even if he got a slight concussion, but it was possible the civilians would die to Yoohyuns fist.


    We have to give them plenty of warning.


    Whether they lived or died was purely up to them. I emphasized my instructions again.


    Everyone, do not move and do not react. Just stay still. I will pull most of the aggro.


    My words were ryed to the two young civilians by Yeonseo and Sunghyun, who were telling them to stay quiet, no matter what, and that in about one minute, a horde of monsters would show up.


    Please survive.


    I wasnt confident we could achieve a perfect clear of the 1st floor while keeping them alive.


    If you dont think you can do it, close your eyes and block your ears.


    I emphasized multiple times that only people who could keep their calm should watch. The two civilians were embracing each other tightly, their eyes squeezed shut.[0:30:42]


    Only thirty seconds were left before the 1st floor scenario of the U-Plex Dungeon began.


    I gave onest warning.


    If you move, youll be eaten.


    * * *


    * * *


    The thirty seconds passed. Choi Hanna, who had been waiting for a friend in front of the U-Plex front doors with her boyfriend, swallowed anxiously.


    Just stay still. Stay still.


    She decided to do exactly as the yers said.


    I want to live.


    The powerful desire to live dominated her mind. Little did she know that her intense wish to survive was the reason why Hyukjin didnt have her knocked unconscious. If she lost her cool and was eaten, then that was her inevitable fate.


    <em>Woof! Woof! Woof! Woof!</em>


    Oh-Oh my god!


    Hanna knew that wolves would be running in. No, they were far bigger than the City Wolves that were now frequently seen in cities. They were about the same size as the tigers shed seen in the zoo. It was like ck panthers the size of tigers were running in.


    I-Im scared.


    She trembled uncontrobly. They were running in like crazy, barking raucously the whole time.


    It was too scary, so she closed her eyes. A very quiet voice came into her ear.


    Its alright. Hanna. Its alright.


    It was the voice of her boyfriend of six years. His voice was trembling a lot, but the simple fact that he was there was a greatfort to her. Her boyfriend, Kim Minsung, also closed his eyes. What he saw before closing them was terrifying.


    Massive dogs with blood red eyes. There were easily over ten of the beasts. Among them was even a dog with two heads.


    The intense smell of dog washed over them. Minsung closed his eyes and prayed. He prayed toe out of this ce alive with the girlfriend he loved.


    A little ways away, Cheon Sooji was standing next to Gong Jinhoon. She hadnt been able to make heads or tails of why Jinhoon had been knocked unconscious, but as soon as she saw the monsters that streamed in, she realized.


    How did he know that Jinhoon is scared of dogs?


    It was baffling, but the feeling of intense pressure the massive, drooling dogs gave off as they ran over was too overwhelming to entertainplicated thoughts.


    How are we supposed to kill such monsters?!


    Their levels were even marked as ? The name of the monsters was red.Big ck Dog LVL ?


    From the looks of it, Hyukjin and his party members didnt have their weapons out. Choi Sung-gu was even clinging tightly to So Yoohyun with his eyes closed.


    Sooji bit her lips.


    They can be that calm even with monsters like that in front of them?


    It must be because the sovereign had instructed them in advance that they were able to stay perfectly still even with such terrifying beasts charging madly their way. They could only act that way if they hadplete and utter trust in Kim Hyukjin.


    Hyukjin was the only person who moved. He, of course, had to keep his mind focused and controlled at all times.


    Theyreing.


    His heart thumped.


    Focus.


    The pressure the Big ck Dogs gave off was like a mountain pressing down on him. They were powerful monsters yers in their early level 30s could not defeat by any means. If those dogs were stimted and went wild, everyone here would die.


    I have to stay calm.


    He had Eye of Perception, which was fused with Calm Observers Eye.


    Slowly.


    He didnt hurry. He very, very slowly took out the ck Yaks Lean Meat while staring at the Big ck Dogs.


    [ck Yaks Lean Meat]


    Very juicy meat.


    A food ingredient that can make the eater extremely full even with a very small amount.


    It was simr to when they hunted the Swamp Alligators before.


    <em>Woof! Woof! Woof! Woof!</em>


    Their big, wickedly gleaming red eyes were asrge as their bodies. The whites of their eyes shed, and saliva giving off a terrible stench dripped from their maws.


    They ran towards Hyukjin, their charge so terrifying that even though Yeonseo was endeavoring to keep her eyes wide open to not miss a single movement Hyukjin made, she squeezed her eyes shut in horror for a moment and had to suppress a near scream.


    Hyukjin!


    He waspletely surrounded by Big ck Dogs and could no longer be seen. After getting a taste of meat, the Big ck Dogs growled as they tore ravenously into the flesh.


    And then, the Big ck Dogs turned their interest to other yers again. One of the Big ck Dogs pressed its nose against Yoohyun, who had his eyes closed. Yoohyun endured the cold wet nose and the terrible stench in silence. Sunghyun did the same.


    While clinging to Yoohyun for dear life, Sung-gu quivered.


    Eurgh fuck.


    Every single time he was with Kim Hyukjin, he found himself stuck in ridiculous scenarios like this. Monsters with red names and ? for levels had appeared in a <em>swarm.</em>One of them even had two heads and gave off the feel of a boss monster.


    Well 100% die if we fight that thing, right?


    That was probably the case. These beasts werent meant to be fought in the first ce.


    I swear to frickin God I wont enter a dungeon with Hyukjin again!


    On the other side, another few dogs licked Cheon Soojis cheek. Because of their size, the Big ck Dogs also produced an immense amount of saliva. After a few licks, Sooji looked as if shed washed her face. The sticky, horribly smelly drool ran down her face and neck.


    Several dogs also took an interest in Kim Minsung and Choi Hanna. One dog approached the pair and started licking Minsungs body. The young man endured it desperately, knowing that if he moved, Hanna would be in danger. With Hanna in his tight embrace, he stood stock still, driven by his determination to protect his girlfriend of six years. If he were alone, he probably wouldnt have been able to stay so still. It was because the person he loved was next to him that he was able to maintain his calm.


    At some point, the Big ck Dog stopped licking him. Minsung cracked his eyes open and nearly yelped in surprise.

 Chapter 109

    Chapter 109


    Hyukjin stood stock still, nting his legs down firmly. Their name, Big ck Dog, described exactly what they were. One of the tiger-sized canines jumped up at him.


    Endure.


    This Big ck Dog wasnt trying to attack him. It was expressing its happiness to see him. It would be a lie to say he wasnt scared, but he didnt panic.


    The real thing is always different from reading it in a book.


    It was just like how seeing a monster in the flesh was different from seeing one in a movie. Honestly, he was scared. He was scared, but he didnt show his fear at all.[Dropping ck Yaks Lean Meat.]


    <em>Grrrr!</em>


    <em>Grrrr!</em>


    The Big ck Dogs ravenously devoured the meat. A few of them licked Hyukjin and butted their heads on him. Hyukjin faced the Big ck Dogs with indifferent calm, as if he were a professional dog trainer.[Dropping ck Yaks Lean Meat.]


    He dropped ck Yaks Lean Meat a few times and also extended his hand towards the dogs several times.


    Is this enough?


    With all those monsters in front of him, he slowly got down to one knee and put out his hand.


    <em>Grrrr!</em>


    Several Big ck Dogs ran up to Hyukjin and started licking his hand enthusiastically.


    <em>Szzzzz!</em>


    Smoke rose from his hand.


    A slight burn, huh.


    The saliva of the Big ck Dogs was strongly acidic, something he knew beforehand. His palm stung.


    Gotta get a little more familiar with them


    He nced around to find the other yers doing as he instructed and staying perfectly still. The youngest of them, Sunhwa, was clinging to Yeonseos leg with her eyes squeezed shut.


    Shes doing well.


    He had faith in her. Once they cleared the 1st floor today, Sunhwas mental fortitude would be a little stronger. He believed this trial was the perfect training for Sunhwa, whose mental strength fell far short of her physical resilience.


    The civilians being here will also push her.


    Hyukjin judged this scenario would be a catalyst for Sunhwas mental growth, and it was looking like he made the right call. He decided to draw things out a little more.


    A little longer.


    It didnt take much to stir the Big ck Dogs into attack mode. It was important to avoid exciting them from start to end. Hyukjin focused on their tails, recalling the strategy and experiences recorded in the past.


    <em>When a Big ck Dog opens its heart, its long tail will slowly wag in a figure eight.</em>


    The first person to sessfully pull off this strat was Lao Yu, who became famous as the Taming Masterter on. After Lao Yus sess, a few guilds failed to replicate his sess, while a few others seeded.


    Almost all of the Big ck Dogs were wagging their tails in a figure eight. Hyukjin traced the movement of their tails with Eye of Perception and Observers Eye.


    Just a few more!


    He couldnt be hasty. If he identally excited the dogs, he would be eaten.


    Its done!


    Finally, all of the Big ck Dogs tails swayed in anguid figure eight, an indication they had opened their hearts. Hyukjin stood up. He had sessfully calmed down the Big ck Dogs, so it was time to advance to the next step.


    He walked slowly so as not to rm the Big ck Dogs he had expended great effort to calm. As he passed the dogs, he periodically scratched their backs or stroked the heads they were resting on the ground.


    His steps were slow and sure.


    That ones the boss.


    It was a Big ck Dog with two heads, a Twin-Headed Big ck Dog. This monster was impossible to hunt in the early game, period. In the past, when the U-Plex Dungeon first appeared, this Twin-Headed Big ck Dog was the 1st gateway yers failed to break through, thereby resulting in a dungeon break. In order to raid this boss monster, your partys average level had to be over 40.[Twin-Headed Big ck Dog LVL ?]


    The name was red, and the level was a question mark. Hyukjin activated Eye of Perception.


    [Twin-Headed Big ck Dog]


    Dog-type animal monster.


    Name: Charles


    Level: 42 (+5)


    Innate ability: [Cutting]


    State: Unperturbed / Full / Drowsy


    Summary: Twin-Headed Dog who Lost his Owner<ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    The disposition/state/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li data-mce-style="font-size: 11pt; ; ">


    Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    To Hyukjins amusement, the name of the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog was Charles, and there was an owner who gave it such a personable name.


    Is that why Lao Yu managed to tame it?


    It wasnt really taming in the proper sense of the word. What Lao Yu achievedand what Hyukjin was trying to do nowwasntplete obedience from the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog, but temporary obedience. Just enough taming so that the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog, the gatekeeper of the 1st gateway, would permit them to pass. Only that much.


    <em>At that time, the level 35 Lao Yu sessfully tamed the boss and opened up the gateway to the 2nd floor.</em>


    Hyukjins party could not hunt this special creature at their current level, but they could tame it. He stopped in front of the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog. It merely cast him a disinterested passing nce.


    <em>Step.</em>


    Hyukjin took one step closer.


    The Twin-Headed Big ck Dog stared at him. It was very faint, but Hyukjin felt bloodthirst. No it wasnt bloodthirst, but a feeling simr to it. The sensation was ever so slightly different from an intent to kill. If Hyukjin had to put it in words, it was something akin to a threat.


    <em>Step.</em>


    He took another step closer, recalling past records.


    <em>Lao Yu started taming with a special method.</em>


    It was said that he used abination of his abilities as a yer and normal dog-training methods. And thankfully, his method worked.


    As if to show he had no intent to attack, Hyukjin avoided the Twin-Headed Big ck Dogs eyes and angled his body to the side. The boss was still growling, but it didnt look like it was going to attack.


    <em>Step.</em>


    Hyukjin took another step closer.


    Come in at an angle, not from the front.


    Little by little, he approached from the side.[Dropping ck Yaks Lean Meat.]


    The Twin-Headed Big ck Dog gulped down the ck Yak meat and continued to stare Hyukjin down.[Dropping ck Yaks Lean Meat.]


    One more time, and another time after that. Hyukjin came closer and closer, until he was right up against the beast. He sat down, leaning his body against the Twin-Headed Big ck Dogs massive frame. The dogs four red eyes shed, and it opened one of its mouths wide. Hyukjin saw its red mouth full of extremely sharp andrge teeth.


    Here ites!


    He clenched his teeth, bracing himself. The Twin-Headed Big ck Dogs mouth closed around Hyukjins head. He did not resist, staying absolutely still with the feeling of its teeth on his neck and its wet tongue on his head.


    Yeonseo watched it happen with eyes of rm.


    Damn it!


    Sharp teeth were bared, with saliva dripping down in gobs, white smokeing off wherever the caustic fluid made contact with Hyukjins hair and face.


    Isnt he going to be eaten at this rate?


    She believed Hyukjin, she absolutely did, but the situation simply looked too dangerous. She felt an urge to pull the aggro right this instant. She bit her lips.


    No, I have to trust him.


    It looked like that giant red mouth was going to swallow Hyukjin whole, but she merely watched with wide-open eyes, remembering Hyukjins words.


    <em>You must never exude bloodthirst. Abandon all thoughts of fighting. Being a little scared is fine, but the moment you decide to fight, theyll attack. I trust you. All of you. Lets clear this ce alive, all of us.</em>


    Hyukjins I trust you echoed in Yeonseos head. She simply watched.


    It really bit him.


    The Twin-Headed Big ck Dogs jaws closed around Hyukjins head. Inside its mouth, Hyukjin saw only darkness. He closed his eyes. It felt like his face was burning up.


    Lao Yu endured this?


    He was getting through it with the continuous use of the Cure and Recovery Potions hed assigned to his slots in advance, but it wasnt painless.


    Hyukjin clenched his teeth. This is the Twin-Headed Big ck Dogs test.


    He endured, staying still. With his head still trapped, he raised his hand and briskly stroked the Twin-Headed Big ck Dogs muzzle, almost as if to say this was nothing.


    Ill use a slightly different method from the one Lao Yu used.


    Life was truly all about the real thing. Now that he was actually in the situation, an even better method came to mind. With his head in the Twin-Headed Big ck Dogs mouth, Hyukjin said one word.


    Charles.


    <em>Flinch.</em>


    He felt the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog flinch. Apparently, it remembered its name.


    Charles.


    It flinched again.


    Charles.


    <em>Flinch.</em>


    The Twin-Headed Big ck Dog let go of Hyukjins head. Smoke billowed off Hyukjins face with a loud sizzle as he stood up.


    Charles. Sit.


    Surprisingly, the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog understood him and actually sat.


    Shake.


    It put out its paw.


    Down.


    Itid down.


    Good dog. Very good dog.


    Hyukjin rewarded it with another ck Yaks Lean Meat.


    After about three minutes, the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog started showing its belly to Hyukjin altogether. It also regurgitated the ck Yaks Lean Meat it ate, offering it to Hyukjin like it was giving him a gift. Hyukjin pretended to be happy and stowed the slobbery meat in his Inventory.


    As soon as he did that, he got a notice.


    [The Twin-Headed Big ck Dog has temporarily submitted.]


    [The System has acknowledged a temporary taming.]


    [The Big ck Dogs and Twin-Headed Big ck Dog have temporarily lost all desire to attack.]


    Hyukjin knew that there were only two ways to clear the 1st floor of the U-Plex Dungeon. Hunt the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog, or temporarily tame it.


    [A special condition has been satisfied.]


    [The Esctor Going to the 2nd Floor has been activated.]


    <em>Woof!</em>


    The Twin-Headed Big ck Dog barked, its tail wagging to and fro in a figure eight. Just then, a new Guardian sent a notice.[The Shepherd Boy expresses his surprise.]


    The representative Guardian of the Scond server had appeared in the Korean server.


    * * *


    * * *


    The Shepherd Boy was a Guardian I knew about. He was the dream and idol of every tamer in the world. There were about a hundred tamers selected by the Shepherd Boy worldwide.


    All one hundred of them were top-ss tamer Rankers.


    Within the top 100 ranking of tamer ss yers, a good eighty of them were yers sponsored and supported by the Shepherd Boy. That was how much of a heavy hitter he was in the taming world. That Guardian had expressed surprise towards me. Not just interest, but surprise, a form of attention one level higher.


    Senia showed herself.


    yer Kim Hyukjin.


    To my surprise, a Pause authority took effect. Seeing as it was boldly used in the middle of a clear, Senia wasnt the one who had initiated it; one of the Guardians had gifted her the authority, most likely the Shepherd Boy.


    I apologize for the interruption.


    I shrugged. She wasnt apologizing to me, but to the other Guardians for suddenly cutting off the y with a Pause. I guessed that was why she started with an apology. She was aplete newbie Streamer at first, but those rough edges of hers seemed to be smoothed out a little now. It almost made me feel proud.


    Senia asked, Do you have a side ss in addition to your main ss?


    Not at all.


    A yers side ss would be decided at level 50, and another Guardian would be selected at that time.


    Then did you sessfully tame the monster using some kind of skill?


    A skill? I didnt have anything so convenient. I just did it. By making use of a dogs behavior.


    ...You dont have a single taming skill?


    Nope. You can scan me.


    Senias wings trembled.


    [Beginning an Intermediate Administrators scan in ordance with the yers request.]


    [No taming-rted skills have been found.]


    Was what I did so astonishing? It wasmon knowledge that Lao Yu aplished it at level 35, so it shouldnt be impossible for me to pull off. I thought it was well within the realm of possibility, since I had the advantage of having the answer key from the start.


    How did you think of taming a monster without a taming skill?


    I just saw it. Our path to survival. How I should act. What I had to do to get to the 2nd floor. I could just see it.


    Those words were greeted by another set of notices.


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain nods in understanding at the geniuses predicament of being unable to exin.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain has sent you a 300 Coin sponsorship.]


    Based on the reactions of the Shepherd Boy, Senia, and the True Master, what I just did clearly had a resounding impact on the Guardians.


    I didnt expect such a big reaction.


    I just carried out a strategy I had from my knowledge of the past, refining it a little with the name Charles.


    Though, of course, not everyone can clear this, even if they have the strategy.


    Even if you knew the strategy, clearing this gateway would be impossible if you didnt have nerves of steel. I simply tackled the challenge because I was confident I could clear it. The Pause ended, and I heard another notice.[The Hidden Piece Bloodless Entry has been fulfilled.]

 Chapter 110

    Chapter 110


    I triggered a hidden piece, and the first one in the Bloodless Entry category. As such, a familiar set of notices came in.


    If a yer with the [First Pioneer] title is the first to discover a [Hidden Piece], it is possible to trigger a linked scenario. Linked scenarios can be triggered three times.<ul><li>


    Linked Scenarios Triggered: [2/3]</li><li>


    Linked Hidden Piece: [Find Charles Owner!]</li><li>


    Scenario: Find the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog Charles owner for him.</li></ul>[Trigger the linked scenario?]


    I had to think for a moment. We came here to clear the U-Plex Dungeon. If I epted this, it was possible I might be teleported somewhere else. If the others went up to the 2nd floor without me, they would all die without even finding out the identity of the monster that killed them.


    Yeonseo came up to me. Boss Hyukjin, what are you doing?


    Its nothing.


    It was too risky for me to ept the quest now. The U-Plex Dungeon had the highest difficulty out of all the beginner dungeons. It was a dungeon that should normally be impossible for us to clear at our levels. Eliminating as many variables as possible was the right call. I could hardly let myself be blinded by the prize in front of my eyes and lose track of the bigger profits ahead. That was my line of thought, but then, the Whispering Devil sent me a message.[The Whispering Devil is having fun.]


    The Whispering Devil had started watching me pretty early on and probably knew about my First Pioneer title effect.[The Whispering Devil makes a proposal.]


    A note came into my Inventory.[Upon epting the quest Find Charles Owner!, it will be set so that all party members can y together.]


    This Guardian was a tricky one to figure out. He disliked justice, loathed fairness, and put his own amusement and curiosity above all else.


    The fact he sent a message like this means


    It went without saying that it was because the Whispering Devil thought this quest would be a source of great amusement for him.


    I heard another notice.[Upon epting the quest Find Charles Owner!, the linked questmencement can be deferred.]


    * * *


    Yeonseo giggled. Im in, of course!


    She wasnt lying.State: Having Fun / Interested


    As expected of a top Ranker, ying was fun for Yeonseo. She was like those people who enjoyed dangerous, extreme sports yed with ones life on the line. She enjoyed ying to the point where ordinary people might see her as a weirdo.


    Sunhwa said calmly, Ill do whatever Oppa tells me to do.


    She, of course, wasnt lying, either.State: Trust / Faith / Unperturbed


    Sung-gu had cold sweat going down his forehead. Cmon, you guys. Think carefully about this. We could die. Its a hidden piece, a hidden piece! Whatll we do if the clear is just as fuckin hard?


    Sunghyun shook his head. It urred to me before, but He threw shade with his characteristic calm and quiet voice. Youre a real scaredy-cat, Hyung.


    As I expected, Sunghyun was fully in favor of going ahead with the linked scenario.State: Slight Interest / Up for a Challenge


    As was Yoohyun. The big guy raised both fists and shouted, If youre a man, you cant back down, Hyungnim!


    Sung-gu tore at his hair. Fuck! Whatever. Im in.


    All my party members agreed. The questmencement would be deferred thanks to the Whispering Devils assistance. We would tackle itter.


    Yeonseo licked her lips. I think itll be really fun. A linked scenario for a hidden piece! Ha. I already cant wait.


    Fuck. Youre all out of your minds. Youre all crazy! Crazy, I tell you!


    That was when the unconscious Gong Jinhoon woke up. What are you doing, Mr. Yoohyun?! he shouted, storming towards the person who had knocked him out. Cheon Sooji stopped him.


    Oi, shut up. If Mr. Yoohyun hadnt stepped in, youd already be dead.


    Wha?


    Sooji gave him a brief exnation. Jinhoon was extremely scared of canines. Apparently, he had a traumatic experience of getting bit by a dog when he was a kid, or something like that. Whatever it was, Jinhoon wouldnt have been able to keep his calm in front of dogs the size of tigers, a fact he also epted.


    ...So thats what happened.


    I had no intention to force them, but also no desire to look after them like the members of my team. I decided to give them a little time to make their own decision. The 1st floor was cleared, and there wasnt any more danger here, anyway.


    You can stay on the 1st floor. Ill have those Unawakened people stay here, no questions asked. If you want, you can stay on the 1st floor until the dungeon is cleared.


    The two civilians had managedin admirable fashionto stay alive. They hadnt freaked out, even with huge monsters theyd never seen before up close and personal.


    After some deliberation, Sooji came up to me. Can you include us, too?


    It was a little unexpected. Gong Jinhoon preferred safety, so I thought they wouldnt want to be involved in the linked scenario.


    I repeated myself one more time. I cannot guarantee your safety if things get dangerous.


    We know. Were not so weak as to beg you to keep us safe.


    What was that strange interest gleaming in her eyes? Was the effect of Mirror Sight from before too strong? But that shouldnt be the case


    More unexpected words came out of Soojis mouth.


    Being able to clear a dungeon with yers of the highest level right now will be a great experience and boon for us.


    * * *


    * * *


    [The linked Hidden Piece Find Charles Owner! has been activated.]


    As per the Whispering Devils proposal, all party members were given the quest.


    Which must mean its not a quest that can be easily cleared, even with all of us.


    That was why the Whispering Devil gave such a proposal, and I intended on epting the challenge.


    [Find Charles Owner!]


    Find the owner of the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog Charles.


    Time limit: 30 days


    Reward: ?


    It was pretty simple and clear-cut for a quest linked to Bloodless Entry. The time limit was thirty days. We had to find Charles owner within that time.


    Lets think about thister.


    We could look for Charles owner even after leaving the U-Plex Dungeon, thanks to the condition offered by the Whispering Devil.


    We also got rewards for Bloodless Entry aside from the linked quest.


    [The Hidden Piece Bloodless Entry has been fulfilled.]


    [10,000 Coins acquired.]


    [Beginner Free Pass Scroll acquired.]


    [One-time Free Pass Scroll Enhancement Permit acquired.]


    10,000 Coins, a Free Pass Scroll, and even a permit to upgrade that Free Pass Scroll.


    Free Pass Scroll!


    This was something people called a second life. If you were stuck in a gate or dungeon you really could not clear, using this consumable scroll would allow you to escape it.


    By beginner, it must mean the scroll can be used in all beginner dungeons and gates.


    On top of the Free Pass Scroll, we got the enhancement permit. I pulled up the detailed exnation.


    [One-time Free Pass Scroll Enhancement Permit]


    A permit to enhance the Free Pass Scroll one time.


    Required Coins: 50,000 Coins


    Sunhwa asked, Oppa, what happens if you enhance a Free Pass Scroll?


    Not sure. Itll probably go from a Free Pass to a Free Clear, dont you think?


    Free Clear?


    A Free Pass was like an Escape Rope in Pokemon, whereas a Free Clear was like a Game Shark, a cheat scroll.


    Yeah, clearing it as soon as you go in.


    Wow! Sunhwas eyes grew wide and sparkled. Then youd also get the reward right away?


    If Im right, then probably.


    Thats amazing! Shouldnt it be upgraded no matter what, then?


    I wonder about that.


    It was too early to tell. Were there any dungeons or gates in the beginner period worth using a Free Clear on at the cost of 50,000 Coins?


    There are.


    There were definitely dungeons out there that were evaluated as being impossible to clear in the beginner period.


    But itd be sad if you used this to clear and got less than 50,000 Coins as a reward.


    Ah! Thats true! Sunhwa grinned sheepishly. Im a dumbo.


    ...


    That elicited a dumbfoundedugh from me. Yeonseo also rxed andughed brightly.


    Didnt think Id hear words like Im a dumbo from the current roster, much less think the words were cute!


    It seemed Yeonseo had taken a liking to Sunhwa. She giggled, her eyes curving into crescents.


    R-Really? Why? Was it weird to say?


    No, its cute. Really cute. Wanna get married to Unnieter?


    Yeonseo pulled Sunhwa into a half-forced hug and rubbed her cheek on the kids head. Apparently, this Sword Empress waspletely rxed, even though we had to go up to the 2nd floor now. Our goal was the 4th.


    Were gonna go to the 2nd floor.


    I stopped in front of the 2nd floor esctor.


    [Esctor Going to the 2nd Floor]


    The esctor going to the 2nd floor of the U-Plex Dungeon. Can transport 15 people at once.


    Cooldown: 20 minutes


    *Currently not in operation (special condition required).


    Before I activated it, I heard a notice.[The Shepherd Boy has sent you Fig Tree Club as a sponsorship.]


    Hm? A sponsorship, already?


    He was one of the most famous Guardians in the Scond server. He only joined Senias channel today, but already sent me a sponsorship.


    And a Fig Tree Club, even. With this, I was certain of it. The Guardians already know the contents of the 2nd floor.


    That was why the Shepherd Boy gave me this item. He also seemed to think there was a chance we would die on the 2nd floor, and to prevent that from happening, he wanted to give me what hint or help he could offer within the bounds of the System.


    The Shepherd Boy, huh.


    It was a little odd. I wasnt a tamer, and that Guardian was one who only sponsored tamers, and not just any tamers, but a select few.


    The Guardians know whats on the 2nd floor.


    And I knew, too. I drew out the picture in my head, thinking about what I could do to produce a y that the Guardians would go wild for. The gift from the Shepherd Boy gave me a clearer idea of what the Guardians wanted to see.


    [Move to the 2nd floor?]


    As soon as we ported to the 2nd floor, the safe zone was deactivated. The 2nd floor was an open ins field, a hillock lush with grass. The sun was above our heads, meaning there was a very high chance this ce was set to be 12 pm.


    Itll show up now.


    Someone came dashing our way. Yeonseo spotted them first with her sharp eyesight.


    Huh? Someonesing from over there!


    It was a blond-haired boy who looked to be in his mid-teens. He ran towards us helter-skelter.


    H-Help!


    It was an NPC. Eye of Perception read the NPCs info. Name: Even. Age: 16 years old. This dungeon NPC was no ordinary NPC, a fact I knew before and confirmed with Eye of Perception.


    As expected.


    Help with what? I asked.


    From the moment this seemingly unthreatening young NPC showed up to give us a quest, the 2nd floor raid had already begun.


    ____

 Chapter 111

    Chapter 111


    Help with what?


    It was a simple question, but Cheon Sooji was suddenly stricken by the thought that Kim Hyukjin was sexy. This feeling didnt stem solely out of an attraction to Hyukjin as a man, but from a longing towards the strong. No matter the situation, he always maintained his calm, mature, and rxed appearance.


    Unbeknownst to herself, Sooji licked her lips and made a sound of admiration.


    Ah


    Gong Jinhoon, whod gotten a tongueshing from Sooji, looked askance at her. Whats with you all of a sudden?


    That man. Isnt he too sexy?


    ...


    Sooji seemed to be asking it rhetorically.


    Even if you ask me that, I


    I want him. That man.


    A desire to possess zed in Soojis eyes. It wasnt a simple desire to possess. She mumbled unconsciously to herself.


    It feels weird.


    She didnt vocalize it, but she was wholly immersed in thepletely new feeling. She was used to someone else submitting to her and doing her bidding, and that was what she preferred. The Queen that Hyukjin saw in her status window before was proof of that.


    I


    She bit her lips. What was it? What was this new feeling?


    I want to obey.


    To put it into her own words


    I want to be subordinate to him.


    Her face reddened slightly. A certain word shed in her mind, but she shook her head and quelled the thought. There was no way. That wasnt her taste, no way. It wasnt. It wasnt. It wasnt.


    Despite her furious denial, Soojis summary was captured by Hyukjins Eye of Perception.Summary: Queen Wanting to Submit


    He couldnt figure out for the life of him why Soojis summary was like that. Yeonseo was aspiring to be a wife, Sunhwa had a brotherplex, and now, there was a strange Wanting to Submit tacked onto Soojis usual Queen.


    He was so bbergasted by it that his eyes were momentarily drawn to her, but he continued his conversation with the boy.


    ...And thats the situation. I beg of you. Please help me.


    So basically, your grandfather disappeared, and you think hes been kidnapped by monsters? We just have to find him?


    Yes.


    A quest window popped up.[The quest Rescue Evens Grandfather! has been generated.]


    The quest window floated in front of Hyukjins eyes. He examined it carefully.


    Somethings different about it.


    He couldnt exin exactly how, but it was vaguely different somehow. That was the niggling feeling he got from looking at the quest window with Observers Eye.


    Thats only natural.


    Because this wasnt a real quest. It wasnt a quest imparted by the System.


    Alright, well help.


    Hyukjins eye, the Observers Eye that discerned the true nature of things, captured each and every minute change in the boys expression. The boy who was so desperate to rescue his grandfather had an ever so slight upwards curl to his lips, a peculiarity that was visible only to Hyukjin. To the physical eye, Even looked desperate.


    But you know Hyukjin raised his chin. Who are you?


    What? What do you mean by that?


    Is your name Even?


    ...


    Hyukjin asked again.


    Who are you?


    ...


    Even took one step backwards. I really dont get what you mean by that.


    Your name. Is it Even?


    Evens body twisted unnaturally. His neck bent, and the joints of his limbs twisted in strange directions. His body trembled as he spasmed, and drool streamed from his mouth.


    Who are you?


    Choi Sung-gu shivered as he watched. Hyukjins nerves were really something. It was almost scary. How could he be soposed, so level-headed? The bastard probably had steel or lead for blood. After one full-body shiver, Sung-gu prepared for the 2nd floor raid.


    Its really going as Hyukjin said.


    Somehow, it didnt feel novel anymore. Sung-gu nudged Sunghyun in the ribs.


    Oi. You ready? You gotta do good.


    I think Ill do better than you, hyung.


    Big talk for a lil pipsqueak. This hyung of yours was numba one back in my homeskillet.


    Jo Sunghyun also shivered, contempt flooding his features. Numba one? And homeskillet wasnt even used correctly He felt zero worth in responding to such outdated, tryhardnguage.


    ...


    He very quietly began to chant a magic incantation.


    * * *


    * * *


    Hyukjin gazed calmly at the kid who had introduced himself as Even.


    It was the same as the strategy in the past.


    <em>The name of the 2nd floor boy is Even, and hes been possessed by a ghost monster.</em>


    At first, many yers failed to figure out this unassuming boys true identity and were lured and killed by his trap.


    <em>It is highly likely that the ghost monster possessing the boy is one of two monsters.</em>


    One was White Fox, a fox ghost monster, while the other was White Rabbit, a rabbit ghost monster.


    <em>The strat differspletely depending on whether it is White Fox or White Rabbit.</em>


    It wasnt that hard to make ghost monsters expose their identity. All you had to do was ask, ask, and ask again.


    Hyukjin grinned.


    Both are perfectly wee.


    He knew all too well what the Guardian who sent him a message earlier, the Shepherd Boy, wanted to see. Hyukjin pulled out the item hed been given.


    [Fig Tree Club]


    A club made from the wood of a fig tree over 100 years old. Effective in provoking ghost monsters that have possessed someone. However, it has no physical attack power.


    It was Hyukjins first time handling a club.


    Feels perfect in the hand.


    Just like when he tried a wrestling technique and threw a dagger for the first time, the club felt like a weapon hed trained with for many years.


    He swung the club forcefully.


    <em>Bam!</em>


    The club made impact with a crack, and the boy staggered.


    I asked, who are you?


    He swung the club again, the weapon whistling from right to left.


    <em>Bam!</em>


    The boy was unable to defend himself.


    AHHHHHH!


    He screamed. Gong Jinhoon scowled. It was true that the NPC had changed unnaturally, but there was no doubt that the boy was a quest giver.


    Huh?


    Jinhoon blinked and was startled to find that the boy had returned to looking like a regr kid.


    Even knelt, crying. Why are you doing this? It hurts. It hurts so much. I beg you, please stop.


    Hyukjin paid him no heed.


    <em>Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam!</em>


    He beat the boy mercilessly, already 100% certain that the boy wasnt really an NPC.


    Sunghyun was amazed in his own way. The Lady of the Scales isnt sending me any notices.


    Normally, his contracted Guardian, the Lady of the Scales, wouldnt turn a blind eye to such a ruthless beating. Her silence meant there was definitely a reason why this boy deserved to be beaten.


    Unable to bear it any longer, Jinhoon tried to step forward. Stop! Smmpgh!


    Sooji put a palm over the blond-haired mans mouth. Oi. I told you to shut up, didnt I?


    Mmgh! Mmgh!


    The healer Gong Jinhoon was no match for Cheon Soojis strength. Unlike him, she had realized that the boy was no ordinary NPC. There was something about him that they didnt know.


    The next moment, she saw what that something was.Possessed One LVL 34


    The boys appearance was changing rapidly. His body became much bigger.


    Massive body. And white fur on two legs?


    White fur had grown all over his legs, which had changed to look like the hind legs of a massive rabbit. The boys face lengthened, and two front teeth approximately thirty centimetres long protruded. The arms also became covered in white fur, making the boy look like a human with the arms and legs of a rabbit.


    Hyukjin grinned.


    <em>The White Rabbit makes the person it has possessed transform into a rabbit monster. One eye should be ck and the other should be red.</em>


    It wasnt difficult to pull the White Rabbit out of the person it possessed.


    <em>It is best to give a hard strike to the temple on the side with the red eye. Though it is ideal to use an anti-ghost item like the Fig Tree Club, its fine even without.</em>


    Hyukjin said one word.


    Sunhwa.


    Sunhwa stepped forward without dy. She had been standing by.


    <em>ng!</em>


    The little tank blocked the Possessed Ones paw swipe.


    Nicely done.


    As expected of a tanking genius, she blocked the attack with ease.


    Hyungnim! I will take down its hind leg! Oryaa!


    Yoohyun wrapped his huge, muscled arms around the Possessed Ones leg, squeezing with such force it seemed he would crush its knee. In the meantime, Hyukjin jumped on Sunhwas shoulder to leap into the air, a natural movement he achieved purely physically, without any System-assisted foot techniques. The fluidity and ease of the movement was almostparable to what thebat ss Yeonseo could pull off.


    He nimbly wrapped his legs around the Possessed Ones neck and began to swing the Fig Tree Club mercilessly.


    The Possessed One screamed and iled.


    Stop! Stop! Stooooop!!!


    <em>Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam!</em>


    It was a one-sided beating. After a great deal of agony, the Possessed One crumpled to the ground and began to loudly vomit.


    Sooji cautiously approached Yeonseo. How long should we just stand by? It feels like were the only ones who are clueless here. Since were on the same boat, please give us a chance to contribute.


    ...


    But Yeonseo didnt respond. She wasnt ignoring Sooji on purpose; she was simply focusing on something.


    Sooji realized that. Whats she focusing on so hard?


    Just then, Yeonseo moved.[Using the skill Single Hit Finisher.]


    Her sword strike blitzed forward, aiming for the White Rabbit that had been expelled from the Possessed One. The ghost monster looked mostly human.White Rabbit LVL 30


    Pierced by Yeonseos sword, the White Rabbit disappeared with a grating, cacklingugh. Yeonseo had long since learned that her physical attack wouldnt work on a ghost monster. She had heard what would happen from Hyukjin.


    So now!


    If it was as Hyukjin said, three holes should appear in the ground. That was what he said would happen once the White Rabbit received a set amount of physical damage.


    Its true!


    That meant it was now time for Sung-gu and Sunghyun to take action. Hyukjins party moved like one fluid entity. Each person knew exactly what their role was and moved all too naturally within Hyukjins scenario.


    Smoke suddenly billowed out. Sung-gu had lit the holes on fire, and it wasnt purely magic fire. He had stuffed the holes with straw that burned well and produced lots of smoke.


    Hyukjin kept Eye of Perception going constantly.


    Our chance wille soon.


    Ghost monsters were very tricky to deal with before you found out their identity, but once you knew what they were, they were rtively easy monsters to fight.


    ck smoke puffed from the three holes the rabbit had dug. Before long, something jumped out of the ground, and a high-pitched squeal shattered the air.


    KYAAAAAAAAAK!


    Sunghyun chanted an incantation directly towards it.


    [<em>Wend Kiratia Metiase</em>]


    A 3-meter-long spear made of wind appeared in the air and shot forward like an arrow. Like a well-written script, everyone moved in perfect order to subdue the White Rabbit in mere moments.

 Chapter 112

    Chapter 112


    After killing the White Rabbit, I heard two notices.[The Conductor of Sound has taken notice of you.]


    And right on the heels of the first came a second.[The White Hunter holds you in high esteem.]


    They were both names I was very familiar with. These two were the Guardians sponsoring two top yers in Italy who were always at odds with one another. The two yers were so famous they even had Korean nicknames.


    The Wargod Salvatore.


    And the Fight King V.


    The Conductor of Sound supported Salvatore, while the White Hunter supported V. Everyone knew that these two top yers of Italy were constantly at each other''s throats, and the biggest reason why was because their Guardians were like oil and water.


    Guardians that should have been active in the Italian server were sneaking looks at the Korean server, most likely because of me. It seemed that many Guardians around the globe were watching the Korean server, starting with the Merchant of Venice.


    They both sent me messages at the same time. I came to a conclusion right away. Theyllpete against each other.


    I had to be extremely careful here. If I chose one of the two, the other would 100% be my enemy. Both the Conductor of Sound and the White Hunter were top-ss Guardians. Nothing good woulde of angering either of them. The current me was still far too weak.


    Sure enough


    [The Conductor of Sound wishes to grant you a favor.]


    [The White Hunter wishes to grant you a favor.]


    Senia appeared to personally mediate the situation.


    yer Kim Hyukjin has demonstrated an incredibly outstanding y. As such, two Guardians wish to support you. You may choose a favor from one of the two Guardians.


    If I chose one, the other would be my foe. A clueless person would have probably blindly picked one, but I was all too aware of what that would cause.


    Im still weak.


    It was obvious after meeting the Demon King. How could I even think to oppose a Guardian when I couldnt even do a thing about the Demon King, a supposed yer?


    Until Im more than strong enough.


    Until then, I had to make good use of them, these wretched existences who turned our world into a game and watched over us like we were characters in a game.


    What should I do?


    For now, I took a look at the favors.


    [Favor from the Conductor of Sound]


    The Conductor of Sound wishes to grant you the title Starting Sovereign.


    [Favor from the White Hunter]


    The White Hunter wishes to grant you the title Starting Fighter.


    I blinked dumbly at the descriptions.


    Starting Sovereign? And Starting Fighter? I knew about these titles. They were the starting titles of the Wargod and Fight King.


    It was highly likely they were growth-type titles. After continuous upgrading, Starting Sovereign was called Prosperous Sovereign by the time I regressed, and Starting Fighter was enhanced to a title called Undying Fighter.


    Those two titles have been offered to <em>me</em>?


    That left me a choice. What would be the most favorable choice for me?


    I dont know the exact title effects.


    That information wasnt disclosed to me. The Conductor of Sound and the White Hunter were urging me to make a choice. They were saying, Well only give you this much to go off of, so hurry ande crawling to choose a favor from one of us.


    Which favor will you choose, yer Kim Hyukjin? Senia turned to the others and asked for their understanding. yer Kim Hyukjin is currently at the crossroads of an important choice. I ask for generous patience from the other yers here. To the Intermediate Administrators streaming each of the yers, I ask for your understanding as well.


    She was fulfilling her role of mediation like a proper Intermediate Administrator. Because of our exclusive contract, the Guardians messages werent shown to the other Streamers, so she took initiative to keep them informed.


    Currently, yer Kim Hyukjin is choosing between a favor from the [Conductor of Sound] or the [White Hunter].


    Yoohyuns Streamer, Neptune, also appeared.


    ...Its really those two Guardians?


    Yes. I do not lie. I am an ever-honest angel.


    Cant be helped. Well just have to wait.


    There was a great deal of regret flooding Neptunes eyes. It was understandable. If he had made an exclusive contract with me, he would be the one streaming this juicy content right now.


    In any case, I


    After a moment of deep contemtion, I made my decision.


    Senia. Ive decided.


    What have you decided?


    Senias wings quivered. She, of course, was on tenterhooks. Who I chose would also decide whose big thigh she would be able to clutch.


    I


    I made a show of looking hesitant, trailing off so that the Guardians would be on the edge of their seats, going mad with curiosity. I inwardly counted to five.


    ...have no choice but to refuse both favors.


    What?


    I believe I have not yet shown sufficient excellence from my ying.


    First, I had to act humble, like I wasnt anything big. That would get the Guardians in a good mood.


    I still dont know what kind of ying the two Guardians wish to see, I said, stering a more earnest expression on my face.


    This is better than turning one of them against me.


    That would make things very tiresome. It was much better to keep both of them as maybe allies than to have one as a definite foe.


    Its better for me to keep them at arms length.


    I continued. Right now, I cannot be sure what direction my ying will take in the future. I already knew, but this was more useful for my goals. I came to this decision because I fear that I will be unable to meet their tastes if I jump into a choice now. If they like my ying further down the line and offer me an appropriate reward then, I would gratefully ept, but as of now, I believe it is too early.


    ...


    Senia was silent.[The Conductor of Sound thinks highly of your prudent attitude.]


    Conductor of Sound, check.


    However, I will do my utmost to show you the best y. It wont be toote to ept a favor then.[The White Hunter thinks highly of your ambition.]


    Prudence and ambition. I showed both, and it seemed the two Guardians were very satisfied by my response.


    [The Conductor of Sound grants you a favor.]


    [This favor is given purely as a favor without ulterior expectations.]


    The Conductor of Sound and the White Hunter were like cats and dogs. If one made a move, the other would definitely not want to lose. They had a verypetitive rtionship.


    [The White Hunter grants you a favor.]


    [This favor is given purely as a favor without ulterior expectations.]


    I checked them immediately.


    [Favor Granted by the Conductor of Sound]


    Type: Special skill


    Name: Conductors Song


    Effect:<ol><li>


    Low chance to cure abnormal statuses of party members in a group battle (duration: 120 seconds)</li><li>


    +3% crit chance of party members in a group battle (duration: 120 seconds)</li><li>


    +20% increase in effect of consumable items of the same effect when used in a group battle</li></ol>


    Cooldown: 360 seconds


    Proficiency: [1]


    [Favor Granted by the White Hunter]


    Type: Special skill


    Name: Hunters Song


    Effect:<ol><li>


    Cures your abnormal status in a solo battle (duration: 120 seconds)</li><li>


    +3% crit chance in a solo battle (duration: 120 seconds)</li><li>


    +20% increase in effect of consumable items in a solo battle</li></ol>


    Cooldown: 360 seconds


    Proficiency: [1]


    My goal was only to prevent the two of them from bing my enemies, but apparently, they were itching to win me over. I had humored and pacified them quite well.


    This is way better than I expected.


    The skills were helpful when I was ying as an Observer <em>and </em>when I was ying like abat ss yer.


    Nice, nice.


    I might have been the one who was rewarded with the individual favors, but Sunghyun was the one who killed the White Rabbit. He came up to me.


    Hyung. I got a minimap with the location of the esctor going to the 3rd floor.


    Alright, lets go.


    We couldnt get there without the minimap. Once he activated it, a yellow light appeared before our eyes. It felt like there was a fairy of light showing us the way. We walked forward, following the light. After about five minutes, we found the esctor.[Move to the 3rd floor?]


    * * *


    * * *


    Before we ported to the 3rd floor, I said one more thing to everyone.


    Everyone take one of these.


    I passed out the Centipede Pearls I managed to gather thanks to Darongi, also giving one to Cheon Sooji and Gong Jinhoon. Without one, they would die.


    Its an item with a very strong poison resistance.


    Sooji said, I guess theres something rted to poison on the 3rd floor?


    Yes.


    Then I might be of help somehow.


    Nope.


    I cut her hopes down. We didnt need any help from her there.


    Everyone will move the shortest distance possible under my guidance. There will be no hunting and no raiding. Even if something attacks you, take the blow and keep moving.


    Jinhoon asked me for additional exnation. That is hard for me to ept. Why must we do so?


    So you dont die.


    This dungeon was a ce that was originally supposed to break. By the standards of the future, this dungeon could only be cleared by top yers in the upper level 30s. That was the kind of ce we, early level 30 yers, were trying to clear. It was absolutely impossible to do it by normal means.


    I decided to exin a little more. I have a special eye. After a pause, I said onest thing. Come if you will trust and follow me. Otherwise, stay on the 2nd floor. If you dont want to be of any help.


    I fixed Jinhoon with my eyes, activating Mettle.


    If youre not going to be helpful, Ill throw you aside without hesitation.


    I felt Jinhoons body flinch. A healer of his level could be a big help to us, but I didnt need a teammate who wouldnt obey. Or rather, I didnt have the strength to spare to protect both of them in addition to my own party members on the 3rd floor.


    Sooji tugged Jinhoon in warning. Well do as you say. Because in my opinion, you are the top yer at the moment.


    We went up to the 3rd floor. It was dark and full of ck smoke, called Poison Fog.


    My vision grew hazy.[Poison Fog has started invading your body.]


    At the same time, something appeared in front of my eyes, and I sharpened my focus to a keen edge.


    Out of all the scenarios I expected this ones the worst.


    It was the worst, and the most unlikely. We were unlucky enough to have a swarm of Venomous Vipers greeting us right at the entrance. These swarms were spawned randomly around the map, but it was rare for them to be spawned at the entrance like this. We had to get past them.


    Damn it. Why here?


    The Venomous Vipers staring at us with their mouths wide open had an average level of 33. They possessed a venom that was very fatal for thin-skinned races like humans.


    Of course, we werentpletely without options. It would just be a little more dangerous. We just had to undertake a greater risk. But just then, a good idea urred to me.


    As I thought before,ing up with ideas on-site was much more effective than racking ones head at a desk. To my amazement, the solution came to me when I was facing the situation head-on.


    This is what well do.

 Chapter 113

    Chapter 113


    [The Safe Zone will be deactivated in 30 seconds.]


    We were given thirty seconds. For now, the most urgent thing to do was to use a poison resistance item to protect us from the Poison Fog and the attacks of the Venomous Vipers.


    Use the Centipede Pearls.


    Thanks to Darongi, I had a lot of Centipede Pearls. Under everyones watchful gaze, I put a Centipede Pearl in my mouth and swallowed it.


    It should be more effective to physically eat it than to use it in an assigned slot.


    That was knowledge from the future, of course.


    The ck smoke in front of me dissipated a little. To be more precise, I was resisting a little more to the smokes ability to hinder my vision.


    No matter what monster shows up, endure with potions and follow me.


    The location of the Venomous Vipers was too unlucky for us to get past them relying on the Centipede Pearls alone. They were positioned in a spot we had to pass to reach the esctor.


    My original n for the worst case scenario was for Sunhwa and me to tank the attacks while going through. But as soon as I was face to face with the real situation, something even better urred to me. With this new n, we would be able to get past here no problem.


    Yeah, this methods better.


    I turned my head to stare at the squirrel sleeping on my shoulder. He went from a [zzZ] to a [?] mark at my gaze.


    This squirrel


    I was amazed he could sleep in such a situation. He was my pet, but even I was astounded by his carefree attitude.


    Darongi. I have a favor to ask.


    The question marks on his head multiplied to [???].


    I pulled out a Fruit Basket from my Inventory.


    [!]


    Darongis nostrils began to re. From the way his fur stood up on end, he seemed to have an astonishing sense of smell for food.


    Sure looks tasty, doesnt it?


    There was a small apple in my hand. I threw it far into the distance. Darongi nearly jumped off my hand, but then froze, clearly having seen the Venomous Vipers coiled up not far away.


    Sitting on my shoulder, Darongi emphatically shook his head, and a mark Id never seen before popped up.


    [;;;]


    I thought this might happen.


    Darongi. You need to distract them a little so that we can safely get past them.


    He vigorously shook his head again, but his eyes were visibly drawn to the apple on the ground. His nostrils red, and his tail swayed from side to side. It was hard to tell whether he was a squirrel or a dog.


    Cant be helped.


    I pulled out a few acorns from my pocket. I had bought them at the market for Darongi.


    [!!]


    An additional exmation point showed his increased urgency. I brought my hand to Darongis nose, the acorns ensconced tightly by my fingers. His nose red like crazy. He wed at my hand as if to dig a hole through it, but it didnt hurt since hecked ws.


    [!!]


    With two exmation points above his head, Darongi stomped his feet. I felt the vibrations of his small feet very distinctly on my shoulder.


    You want them, yes?


    Darongi nodded his head emphatically. But then, he nced at the Venomous Vipers and shook his head again, acting like he didnt want to eat any stinky acorns.


    Im gonna throw them, alright?


    Darongi shook his head. He whipped his head away, but he was still eyeing the acorns out of the corner of his eyes.


    Alright, then.


    Ready


    Go get em!


    I scattered the acorns far into the distance. Now, there were a whopping three exmation points over Darongis head.


    [!!!]


    And they were even red. The Gluttonous Theft Genius flew off my shoulder,nding lightly on the ground and shooting off. He must have used his special ability Stealth, because I couldnt even see him. A genius thief that even Eye of Perception could not perceive went scuttling after the prizes Id scattered on the ground.


    Lets go.


    The Venomous Vipers were hot on Darongis tail. This squirrel might look adorable and harmless, but he was still a theft genius. He was weak to food, but he was a dauntless rascal who had dipped his nimble paws in the Demon Kings Inventory of all ces. He was more than capable of escaping the Venomous Vipers jaws.


    Everyone memorized the path we learnedst time, yes? Were going to the esctor.


    Before the building dungeonized, we came here to fully familiarize ourselves with itsyout. Even though the Poison Fog was obscuring our vision, it wasnt so bad that we wouldnt be able to find our way.


    Sunhwa, in the front.


    Roger.


    It looked like Sunhwa was very scared of snake monsters, but she didnt run away. Sunhwa immediately took the front and started running. Thanks to Darongis efforts in distracting the Venomous Vipers, things got a little easier for us.


    On top of that[Using the special skill Conductors Song.]


    Golden dust showered the heads of all the yers around me, the people in my party, indicating that I had used Conductors Song.


    [Conductors Song is in effect.]


    [Curing status abnormalities of party members at a low chance.]


    No one had a status abnormality yet.[Increasing the crit chance by 3%.]


    We wouldnt be fighting here. If we did, it would stimte the Venomous Vipers, and a battle with a swarm of snake monsters in this Poison Fog wasnt a very desirable oue. However, the next skill effect would be very useful here.[Increasing the effect of Centipede Pearl by 20%.]


    With Darongis distraction efforts, the effects of the Centipede Pearls amplified by Conductors Song, and Sunhwas tanking ability in addition, we were able to reach the esctor without taking much damage. There was a purple crystal near the esctor, which Yoohyun destroyed.


    [Esctor Going to the 4th Floor]


    The esctor going to the 4th floor of the U-Plex Dungeon. Can transport 15 people at once.


    Cooldown: 20 minutes


    *Can be used


    I began to pick up on a whistling sound with Eye of Perception. It was a little odd to say I could hear with an eye, but that was definitely how it felt.


    Hesing.


    At the very front, was a familiar presence, a presence that was running like crazy with Venomous Vipers hot in pursuit. That presence belonged to Darongi.


    He was pulling all the Venomous Vipers our way.


    Fuck.


    It was hard to say exactly how many there were, but there had to be at least twenty. We would absolutely die if we were mobbed by them.


    Were going up right this instant.


    I immediately activated the esctor, and all of my teammates ported up via the esctor. I stayed back, waiting just a little longer for Darongi.


    [!!!]


    He was scrambling desperately with red exmation points above his head, fleeing so urgently he couldnt even use his Stealth properly.


    Hurry!


    I grabbed a handful of acorns. As soon as he saw my hand, the exmation points increased to [!!!!]. A sparkling yellow light started gleaming in his eyes, and his speed increased.


    Hurry!


    I had to get out of here with Darongi in tow. I reached out my hand towards him, and he leapt with everyst bit of his strength and grabbed on. To be more precise, he flung himself towards the acorns in my hand.[Moving to the 4th floor.]


    We made it.


    * * *


    * * *


    It was no exaggeration to say that the true danger thaty in wait for us wasnt the 3rd floor, but the 4th. We had just arrived on the 4th floor. Darongi was sulking, crossing his arms while avoiding my gaze even though he was a freaking squirrel. However, there was no time to coax him.


    Whats going on, Boss Hyukjin? What took you so long?


    There wasnt much time to exin. We were in the safe zone right now. Normally, you discussed strategies and how to approach the clear while in the safe zhat was what it was for. But not on this 4th floor.


    Were going right away.


    Yeonseo understood me. Were running, right?


    Yeah.


    I took off, running at the front. Gong Jinhoon stuttered a confused Wh-What?, but he pumped his legs and ran after us.


    After some time, a notice came.[The Safe Zone has been deactivated.]


    And with it


    [The U-Plex Dungeon 4th Floor is starting to copse.]


    When yers reached the 4th floor, the U-Plex Dungeon would start copsing. We had to survive it, and there was only one path of survivalescaping the U-Plex.


    We already had theyout memorized and knew very well that there was a skywalk that connected the U-Plex with the Hyundai Department Store. Everyone made a beeline precisely towards the goal.


    <em>C-c-c-c-raaash!</em>


    The ceiling starteding down on us. Thankfully, there werent any monsters here. We just had to get out before we were crushed. That was the reason why you couldnt linger around in the safe zone.


    The copse is happening faster than I thought.


    As we ran, the passage going to the Hyundai Department Storea gate, in dungeon termsfelt so far away.


    [U-PlexHyundai Department Store Skywalk]


    A skywalk connecting the U-Plex Dungeon and Hyundai Department Store.


    It didnt have any special usage restrictions. We just had to run through.


    [Leaving the U-Plex Dungeon 4th Floor.]


    [Moving to the Hyundai Department Store.]


    Everyone fell to the ground, gasping.


    Haah! Haah! Haah!


    The priest Gong Jinhoon and me magician Choi Sung-gu were particrly winded.


    Hahh, hahh. Fuck. Thought we were goners. The hell was the ceilingin down for, dammit.


    Inparison, Yoohyun was still breathing pretty evenly. He came up to me.


    Hyungnim, is this really the Hyundai Department Store?


    It looked the same as the Hyundai Department Store and had the same name, but it wasnt. The U-Plex Dungeon 4th floor copsed, but the U-Plex Dungeon itself didnt. In other words, we were still inside the U-Plex Dungeon.


    This is a field called the Hyundai Department Store within the U-Plex Dungeon.


    It was easy when you thought of it like that.


    No, I responded, looking around. This field was slightly different from the real building, which we visited to survey before. The fact that it was deserted aside, I could sense it was different somehow. I would probably be able to say what was different if my Eye of Perception proficiency was higher, but for now, it was only a vague feeling. An artificially made space. Thats how it feels.


    ...


    Cheon Soojis gaze lingered on me. She probably had a lot of questions she wanted to ask, but with the situation the way it was, she didnt step forward to ask.


    I cant really sense any monsters. For now, well split up and look for a clue on how to get out of here.


    I already knew what that clue was. There was definitely an NPC called Noah here. He was the final clear NPC who would enable the clear of the U-Plex Dungeon.


    Shit. I hate dungeons. Fucking hate them. Whyre they soplicated to clear? Sung-gu grumbled, but he searched more diligently than anyone else. All you gotta do for a gate is break the Clear Crystal, but dungeons, I fuckin hate em, man. Terrible. Gah, gotta just burn this shit to the ground.


    I, of course, joined in the search. The 4th floor sold casual womenswear. Right in front of me was a Lacoste Women shop.


    Noah is in the Calvin Klein store near the esctor.


    I kept my guard up. In some ways, Noah was a more terrifying existence than the Intermediate Administrators.


    One misstep, and he could kill all of us.


    He wasnt an NPC you were supposed to fight in the first ce. Even before I regressed, there werent any yers who could win a 1 vs. 1 against Noah. He wasnt an NPC you were supposed to fight, but one you needed to win over.


    The problem was whether Noah could be convinced with words alone to let us out, or not.


    I just have to make it so he lets us out.


    If it didnt work, Id just have to make it work. When I passed a store with a Lanvin Collection sign, I heard a voiceing from some distance ahead.


    Who are you guys?


    The NPC I was looking for showed up. As expected, his name was Noah. There was nothing to deliberate. I had the answer key in hand and was going to act ording to the strategy I knew.


    [The Conductor of Sound expresses deep interest.]


    [The Conductor of Sound rmends you keep your guard up against Noah.]


    Right on the heels of those notices came another set.


    [The White Hunter expresses deep interest.]


    [The White Hunter rmends exercising caution against Noah.]


    Despite only discovering me today, these Guardians were scrambling to send me messages. I could understand their worries in full. All the yers who first came here and attacked Noah thinking he was a monster perished.


    I would clear this ce with a different method.


    And I had an item that would allow me to pull off an absolutely perfect clear.

 Chapter 114

    Chapter 114


    Just like how there was a grade of impossible-to-hunt monsters, there was a grade of impossible-to-fight NPCs, NPCs who could never be defeated through battle. The NPC in front of us was that kind of NPC.


    The gray-haired old mans eyes were wreathed in wrinkles, and his white beard came down to his stomach. He was holding a worn-looking gnarled club in his right hand, but looks were deceiving. That was no simple wooden stick, but an extremely outstanding artifact.


    Noah.


    I intentionally avoided using Eye of Perception on him. Rashly trying to read an NPC of his level could actually cause a bacsh.


    We


    I watched Noahs face carefully. I had to pay close attention to his expression.


    <em>After many attempts and failures, yers found the way to clear the U-Plex Dungeon. What you have to watch out for is Noahs expression. If one side of Noahs lips is curled up in a smile, then</em>


    That was a provisional pass. Currently, Noah was scowling and stroking his beard.


    <em>If hes frowning and stroking his beard, the yer must take the risk of incurring a big loss.</em>


    Noahs expressions could be divided into five expressions total. Many had died in the process of finding that out. The U-Plex Dungeon gave the people who cleared it a very useful item called Noahs Helm, and it was one of the oft-mentioned key dungeons. I had this ces strats memorized by heart.


    ...are adventurers pursuing and contemting the truth.


    Hooh?


    Noahs eyes gleamed. It was public knowledge that Noah was quite fond of the word adventurer.


    Not that itll change the clear method.


    Noah was going to try and extort us. And he would do it using the system called trade.


    I do like adventurers, he said, nodding to himself. Younguns these days have no spirit or adventurousness. And they especiallyck trailzing spirit. When I was young, back on the Libron Continent


    His rambling speech was one Id heard many times before.


    <em>Noah willy out the tale of his heroism on the Libron Continent. Because the amount you will lose is directly tied to how you respond, it is best to give indicators that you are listening attentively.</em>


    Noah was in every way a swindling NPC. That was how he was set to be from the start. But his next action surprised me a little.


    Hrm?


    His expression changed. Set NPCs rarely changed their expressions, but something was different this time. Why did his expression change?


    You, youre quite something. At such a young age and level, youve got both mettle and trailzing spirit, dont you?


    His words seemed to mean that he had recognized that I had the ability Mettle and the title First Pioneer.


    Good, good, very good. Since youvee all this way, Ill give you a gift.


    Thank you.


    I heard a notice.


    [You have received a trade request from Noah.]


    [ept the trade request?]


    The fateful trade request came. I knew which items would satisfy Noah.[A trade window has been generated.]


    A trade window only I could see popped up in front of me. I could put items from my Inventory in the window, and through it, we couldplete a System-assisted trade. This was a function that yers could use from the mid-game onwards. I was just experiencing it in advance.


    [Noah]<ol><li>


    Isabel</li></ol>


    Noah put an item called Isabel in the trade window.


    [Isabel - Growth-Type - Fully Sealed]


    An artifact found in the tomb of Isabel, Queen of the Sword Forest. It is imbued with a special spirit ki that chooses its master.


    Grade: Transcendent


    Attack power: 40-61 (currently sealed)


    Effects:<ol><li>


    Disabled</li><li>


    Disabled</li><li>


    Disabled</li><li>


    Disabled</li><li>


    Disabled</li><li>


    Disabled</li><li>


    Disabled</li><li>


    30% offensive innate ability damage amplification</li></ol>


    Special note:<ol><li>


    In a fully sealed state. Not all of its strength can be drawn upon.</li><li>


    Its master has not been selected.</li></ol>


    My eyes nearly popped out of my head. Sir, surely this isnt the gift you mentioned?


    It is, it is. I like young fes whove got some adventurousness to them.


    My n changed a little. Noah was extremely fond of things that fell into the gem category. So normally, you could just give him a gem-studded ne or earring.


    But its transcendent


    I never in my wildest dreams thought that such an incredible item would make an appearance here.


    Of course he wont give it to me.


    It was naturally total BS. There was no way this conniving NPC would actually give me the sword. This trade itself was a scam. That item would nevere into my hands. If we traded using normal means, that is.


    <em>Noah steals the items of yers by switching out the item right before the trade ispleted. It has never been discovered why an NPC of his level stoops to pilfering from yers.</em>


    That much, I was prepared for.


    <em>But if you do not offer an item that, at least in Noahs eyes, is not of simr orparable value to the item he puts out, there is a very high chance he will be enraged.</em>


    It went without being said that if Noah became enraged, all of the yers here would be ughtered.


    Hes put out a transcendent item


    That meant I had to offer an item ofparable value. The ne I bought for just $5,000 was bound to incur his wrath.


    Its <em>transcendent</em>. What should I put in?


    In myst life, the transcendent grade was just a rumor to me, but in this life, the sword Isabel was already the second transcendent item I came in contact with. And in the beginner period, no less! There really was a World Above, a world for Rankers alone.


    It falls far short of Isabel, but is it alright if I put out the most valuable thing I have discovered during my adventuring?


    A right properd you are. What is the item you mention?


    Noah grinned.


    His expression keeps changing.


    We were derailingpletely from the strat.


    I still gotta do what I gotta do.


    In the special hidden field Forest of Unknowns, I obtained an item whose value could not even be measured right now. A mana crystal, the treasure the Thin Hobgoblin tried to protect with its life. An item that I barely managed to find with Darongis ability in not just a regr hidden field, but a <em>special </em>hidden field.[Offer Mana Crystal?]


    The mana crystal was put in the trade window.


    This is the most valuable thing I own. Though I dont know if it will be to your liking, sir


    No matter how precious a mana crystal might be, it couldnt beat a transcendent item. Mana crystals would be sold for $10 million in three years, but transcendent items were so rare their existence alone was shrouded in mystery.


    But Noah goes wild for mana crystals.


    That was something Lily, a weirdo among weirdos, a person so entric even her nickname was Weirdo, confirmed multiple times. If a mana crystal was offered, the trade would be epted ten times out of ten or so it was said, but this was a method only a billionaire could use. It was known that the Weirdo Lily actually carried out this method multiple times.


    Noah gave me a smile of satisfaction. Oh. It seems you truly have been diligent with your adventuring and exploration. To think that you have something so precious.


    I am relieved to hear it is to your liking.


    When the trade isplete, Ill send you out of here. Using my special authority.


    Thank you very much.


    * * *


    * * *


    Notices came in.


    [The trade will bepleted when you press the Trade button.]


    [When the trade ispleted, the U-Plex Dungeon will be cleared.]


    The item he was offering was still Isabel.


    So now


    If things went as they normally did, Noah would now pull a fast one over me.


    Stay calm.


    I couldnt show him that I was too worked up. I had to stay calm. If I messed up, we would all die.


    Even if its a little risky


    A transcendent item was worth such a risk three, four, five times over.[Use the Forced Exchange Scroll?]


    That was the item the Merchant of Venice had gifted me.


    [You have used the Forced Exchange Scroll.]


    [The Forced Exchange Scroll is an object imbued with the authority of the Merchant of Venice.]


    [The authority is taking effect.]


    [The trade has beenpleted.]


    I heard a heartyugh from Noah. Hoho. Well then, have a good trip out.


    [The U-Plex Dungeon has been cleared.]


    [5 seconds remaining until you leave the U-Plex Dungeon.]


    Five seconds. I was given five seconds. The next moment, Noahs face contorted in rage.


    YOUUU!!!


    The entire field trembled. Power billowed from Noahs body.


    YOU DARE!


    Noahs wooden club moved. A magic circle was drawn in the air, shining with the color of aluminum. It almost looked like it was made of steel.


    YOU DARE TO TRICK ME!!!


    A dragon made of steel rushed out of the magic circle and opened its mouth wide.


    <em>ROAAAAAR!</em>


    It felt like the entire ce was turned into a vacuum.


    Countless swords were formed at the dragons mouth. It was a famous spell, a physical damage attack cast by magicians. It was magic that summoned the swords, but the damage done by those swords registered as physical damage. The spells name was Sword Breath.


    One second left until we were ported out.


    [1 second]


    But that Sword Breath reached me faster than one second.


    Gugh!


    My chest felt like it was on fire, and I felt my consciousness dimming. But I was ready for it.


    Now!


    The zing agony felt as if it would melt my heart, but I pulled it off. At the precise time, within the half second window, I used my recently acquired special ability.


    Right now!


    [Absorption]


    Absorbs all physical damage for 0.5 seconds. The absorbed damage is converted to HP.


    Cooldown: 24 hours


    Half a second. It was only a fleeting moment.


    Did I do it?


    In the end, I saw a light.[Distributing the U-Plex Dungeon clear rewards.]


    My heart still throbbed in pain, but I survived.[Noahs Helm acquired.]


    Noahs Helm, an item that was absolutely necessary to level up as fast as possible to level 40. I finally acquired it.


    I thought I was really gonna die.


    In any case, we found ourselves outside the U-Plex, where a swarm of reporters was waiting and the police had put up a no-entry line. Thankfully, the two civilians we met on the 1st floor seemed to have survived.


    There were Taeguk Shield personnel here too, so


    I could just push most of the credit to Taeguk Shield and the Tutorial Ender, So Yoohyun, and just secure the actual profits in the back.


    But just then, I heard a voice.


    (Darn it. What the heck? You tricked me.)


    I looked around.


    No. This isnt a physical voice.


    They were speaking, but it was definitely not a person. That didnt mean it was Senia or an Intermediate Administrator, either.


    (You know what I want?)


    Somehow, I could feel an emotion. I could feel someone trembling.


    (I wanted a strong male who could be my match.)


    I couldnt tell where the sound wasing from.


    (I thought I was picking up a touch of that from you, but you tricked me!)


    I quickly realized where this voice wasing from.


    (There was just a tiny hint of the smell of a strong male on you, but I know now. Tell me honestly. Youve recently held something incredible, havent you?)


    This voice wasing from none other than my Inventory.


    (Over there. That sword that woman over there is holding! Im talking about that! I woke up because I smelled that strong male fragrance, so howd I end up in the hands of a weak-ass male? This is a scam! A clear and simple scam marriage.)


    The voice wasing from the transcendent item Isabel.[Isabels seal has been partially lifted.]


    The item window popped up in front of me automatically.

 Chapter 115

    Chapter 115


    [Isabels seal has been partially lifted.]


    The item window popped up.


    [Isabel - Growth-Type - Partially Sealed]


    An artifact found in the tomb of Isabel, Queen of the Sword Forest. It is imbued with a special spirit ki that chooses its master.


    Grade: Transcendent


    Attack power: 72-84 (currently sealed)


    Effects:<ol><li>


    Disabled</li><li>


    Disabled</li><li>


    Disabled</li><li>


    Disabled</li><li>


    Disabled</li><li>


    Disabled</li><li>


    Ego activated</li><li>


    30% offensive innate ability damage amplification</li></ol>


    Special note:<ol><li>


    In a partially sealed state. Most of its strength is sealed.</li><li>


    The ego has selected its bride. The swords bride selection is valid for 300 years.</li></ol>


    Amentation rang in my ear.


    (This is a scam. A scam! You goddamn scammer!)


    I was speechless. I was already dazed by the fact that I obtained a transcendent item, but it was even one that <em>talked.</em> With an attack power of 72-84, the attack alone was on par with top-ss items in the mid-game.


    And thats while it''s mostly sealed.


    Just how strong would it be if it wasnt sealed?


    (You son of a magician! Are you listening to me?!)


    To my fascination, I could feel Isabels feelings. Isabels son of a magician was her version of son of a bitch. I could automatically feel that she loathed magicians and disliked magic.


    (Say something, you scammer!)


    I didnt really have anything to say, but more importantly, how should I respond? With my voice? While I was thinking, Isabel started talking again, as if she had read my thoughts.


    (Hah To think an idiot who doesnt even know how to converse with me is my bride. Hes married to me)


    Bride? That was in the item description, but the definition seemed a little different from the one I knew. The dictionary definition of bride was woman about to be married.


    (Shut up. If I say bride, its bride.)


    The pieces clicked together. Isabel was asleep for thousands of years, and because she had slept for so long, her judgment making ability was warped. Upon smelling the intense smell of a very strong male from me, she inadvertently selected me as her bride.


    So basically, Im your bride?


    (Yeah. You scammer. Take your hands off me.)


    She was wailing breathlessly, but I was really stumped on what the hell I was supposed to do.


    (What else can you do? You just have to ept that youre my brid)


    And then, she cut off mid-sentence. I was supposed to be the swords bride, and even Isabel called me bride. I really didnt get it.[The ego has gone into a dormant state.]


    Isabels ego fell asleep again. Apparently, I was too weak to activate Isabel properly.


    So the ego activation time is about 2-3 minutes per day?


    That was my best guess. I found myself smiling.


    Nice.


    The diverse spread of disabled special abilities aside, the swords basic function was even better than Asura.


    Senia used a Pause authority. That thing was supposed to be super expensive, but she sure used it often.


    Youre doing well, it seems?


    There are various Guardians willing to sponsor me.


    And so? What do you want?


    I must give you an exnation of how you obtained Isabel.


    When I heard the exnation, I was floored.


    Isabels presence was so powerful when she woke up that the other notices didnt reach me?


    Yes.


    Basically, Senias exnation was that the first condition I satisfied was achieving a [Perfect Bloodless Entry] from the 1st floor to the 4th. The second was surviving Noahs attack.


    Theoretically, it should have beenpletely impossible.


    And I pulled that off?


    I believe you were lucky.


    I acknowledged that as well. I was lucky. No matter how good my timing was, this would have been impossible without good luck.


    You needed the title First Pioneer, and it was a special privilege given to the first clearer of the U-Plex Dungeon.


    And as a result of all that


    That is the process of how you acquired Isabel.


    There was really no other way to exin this than to say I was lucky. Like a proper Intermediate Administrator, Senia gave me a rtively detailed exnation of the process before deactivating the Pause.


    I looked at the U-Plex Dungeon behind me. In the future, it wouldnt just be the U-Plex, but a constantly active dungeon.


    Guess that leaves two quests, then.


    There was a lot I had to do, but two things stood out in particr. One was rted to the Predator Tree Colony, and the other was Find Charles Owner!


    Okay.


    In any case, I seeded in pioneering the U-Plex Dungeon today and acquired Noahs Helm in addition to the transcendent sword Isabel.


    Cheon Sooji came up to me.


    I knew you were amazing but you really are more amazing than I thought.


    ...


    See you next time. I will think about how I can seduce you.


    I turned and walked away, her sultry gaze hot on my back.


    * * *


    * * *


    On the way back home, Yoohyun said, Hyungnim. Im against that woman.


    What?


    Shes not a good match. Her eyes just ooze sex.


    ...


    Sung-gu nodded. Ya. Shes a man-eater.


    I wasnt sure if it was okay for them to say such things in this day and age, but it was empirically true that not much good came of getting close to Cheon Sooji, so it was hard to say whether I should disregard their words or not.


    But dayam, shes fuckin pretty. Im jealous, man.


    Yeonseo smiled brightly. Still, Im more charming. Right?


    ...


    She clung to me and urged, Right? Im more charming, right?


    ...


    Well it was hard to contradict her, but unfortunately for Yeonseo, she wasnt my type either.


    Hurry and say Im charming.


    She started pulling out her sword, so I just said, Yeah, youre charming.


    Everyone parted ways, and Sunhwa and I got back home. Mom, Noona, my new little sister, Sunhwa, and I gathered in the living room to eat fried chicken. The topic was, of course, the corpses found in the central park.


    Goodness gracious Mom said, holding a piece of chicken. How utterly chilling.


    The way she shuddered showed that my mom was very frightened by the incident, too.


    Its a little strange.


    Why did a gate that should have been on Plum Blossom Ind show up here, in the central park in front of our home? And it was even the same gate.


    What could it be?


    Did something change from the past?


    No idea.


    How I survived the changed reality was more important than finding out what had changed. Noona, who was polishing off her favorite soy sauce chicken like usual, gave me a cool look. Dont fool around and stay safe.


    Whats this all of a sudden?


    You said you were a yer or whatever too, right? Wholl pay your hospital fee if you mess around and get hurt?


    ...


    Thats what she said, but her summary was very cute.Summary: Deeply Worried Tsundere


    Sunhwa chirped without a care, As expected, one chicken per persons the best!


    Sunhwa wasnt the only one happy. So was Darongi. [] marksthey were even redwere floating above his head as he held and nommed away at a chicken leg bigger than himself.


    Squirrels eat meat?


    It was already weird that a squirrel was a genius thief, but in any case, Darongi was sucked into the magical world of fried chicken. As Sunhwa hummed a happy one chicken per person~, Darongi nodded in agreement and shed a thumbs up at Sunhwa, [] marks dancing over his head the entire time. I was so dumbfounded I had tough.


    Whats with this squirrel, really?


    What kind of squirrel could suddenly materialize fingers he didnt have before and make music notes float above his head? The rascal was full of surprises.


    After some sweet family time, I went to my room.


    Like always, I needed to check my notebook and think about how I should progress. After all, I decided that I would be the one to draw out my own future. I intended to do everything I failed to do in the past.


    For now, I think I can definitely cure Mom.


    I had $300k in my bank ount at the moment. I got $100k from President Song Kiyoung and $100k from Taeguk Shield. The other $100k was Sunhwas share, but I was holding onto it for her. She entrusted it to me, saying, I think thats too much money for me. You take care of it for me, Oppa! In any case, I had money.


    Though I lost the mana crystal.


    The mana crystal was traded away for Isabel. No matter how you cut it, that was a huge profit.


    Hm, guess Gwanghwamun Dungeon is next.


    While I was thinking about the future, I discovered something under my desk. It was a yellow piece of paper hidden so you couldnt see it from the outside.


    Whats this?


    I unfolded the neatly folded paper. Someone had written a Safe Prayer on it, and it seemed by all ounts to be a charm.


    A charm?


    It was obviously Noonas handwriting. I let out a wry chuckle.


    She wrote me a charm?


    She wrote me a charm, but she hid it very carefully, not wanting to be found out. Unfortunately, my ss was Observer, and I could pick up on much more than the average person.


    Writing charms like a child, I said, shaking my head with a smile. I carefully folded it again and returned it to its original spot. A quick search on the Inte showed that this sort of thing was trending, or something like that. It was a lucky charm you could buy on the Inte. I vaguely remembered them existing in the past, too.


    The sales pitch on the Inte said, Luck will only be imparted if the charm is renewed once per day, at least thirty times.


    Each charm was a whopping ten bucks, but quite a lot of them had been sold. From the sales pitch, the charm would bring luck only if at least thirty of them were used.


    Then Noonas nning to spend $300 on this.


    Should I call this cute, or stupid? It wasnt unpleasant. Ultimately, it meant that my sister cared about me that much.


    One day passed. I went on an easy round through the Seoul Station Dungeon partly to get more Mandra items and partly to take a break, and when I came back, no one was home. I went into my room.


    Huh?


    Something was a little strange.


    Why is that thing?


    It was hard to put it in words, but it felt like the flow of strength was strangely distorted . I activated Eye of Perception and Observers Eye simultaneously.[Observing with Observers Eye.]


    Observers Eye, which had the power to discern the true nature of things, examined the yellow charm.


    This strange feeling


    I couldnt pinpoint what exactly was weird, but it was definitely off somehow.


    I can almost see something.


    I stared at it for what was probably quite a long time. Sweat beaded down my forehead. An immense sense of exhaustion washed over me, and I copsed onto my bed, the yellow charm in my hand.


    To my surprise, an item description could be activated from it. It was just a regr object yesterday, but today, it was an item.


    I clicked the yellow charm with my eyes, and the description popped up. It was no ordinary charm.

 Chapter 116

    Chapter 116


    There was talk about these yellow charms from very early on. It was just a story that went around on the Inte. The civil servant exam didnt cover it, and the rumors were never officially proven.


    It was said that yellow charms brought luck, and in some cases, even activated a gate.


    Of course, no one believed it. People just bought it as a joke because it was trending. But now, it seemed like it wasnt just an empty rumor. The proof was clearly before my eyes.


    [Yellow Charm]


    The Yellow Charm can activate a gate.


    The description window can only be activated by the eyes of one with the qualifications to activate the gate, and entry is limited to 1 person.


    ording to the Inte story, the Yellow Charm Gate had a huge reward.


    Come to think of it


    I vaguely remembered the difficulty being low and the reward being big because it was a charm imbued with ones wishes, or something like that.


    Cant believe that was actually true.


    The lethargy I felt was too severe for me to do anything right now. I had to activate the gate after recovering my stamina a little, so I closed my eyes, deciding to rest.


    Oppa,e eat.


    I woke up to someone shaking me.


    Sunhwa?


    You must have been really tired. You were sleeping for so long I came to wake you.


    Really? What time is it now?


    11 AM.


    11 AM?


    E-le-ven in the morning. You slept for over 24 hours. Its Saturday.


    Saturday? That meant I slept through the entire day.


    The Yellow Charm?


    I couldnt see it anywhere.


    Whered it go?


    Was that Yellow Charm all a dream?


    No. It wasnt a dream.


    It felt far too real to be a dream. Cold sweat ran down my back, my shirt wet with perspiration.


    Sunhwa.


    Yes?


    You said I slept for over 24 hours, right?


    Yes. I thought you were dead, you know? Mom and Unnie are worried too. Hurry ande eat.


    I slept for over 24 hours, so how was my back still soaked in sweat? On this very dry early-October day?


    Ah. Noona worried a lot?


    She did. I think Unnie really loves you.


    That so?


    Ill wait outside.


    I called Sunhwa back, who was turning to leave.


    Sunhwa.


    Yes?


    Come over here for a sec.


    Why?


    Tilting her head, Sunhwa came up to me.


    Youreing in without knocking, huh?


    Uh, uh, um, th-thats


    <em>Pak!</em>


    I flicked Sunhwas forehead with my pointer finger.


    O!


    Knock before youe in next time.


    Sunhwa clutched her forehead, her eyes tearing up a little.


    Nngh. Violence is bad.


    I activated Observers Eye, the eye that discerned the true nature of things and read their flow.


    My back, which remained wet after 24 hours. The Yellow Charm that disappeared. And the genius tank Kim Sunhwa, who yelped in pain from a mere forehead flick.


    Make sure you knock next time.


    Okay.


    My head hurts a little right now, so Ille out after stretching.


    I had experienced this feeling of strangeness before, when I was in the distortion created by the Thin Hobgoblin using the power of the mana crystal.


    I was sure of it.


    This is the inside of a gate.


    The Sunhwa who had just gotten flicked by me wasnt the real Sunhwa.


    The Yellow Charm activated the gate.


    Something might have happened while I was asleep. In any case, the Yellow Charm Gate was triggered while I was sleeping, and I was inside of it.


    A gate with no existing strats.


    So how should I clear this gate? I closed my eyes and focused my mind. I concentrated on my innate power, Eye of Perception, and specifically drew on the 4th aspect of the traits.Resistance towards illusory attacks or apparition magic


    My level of concentration could maximize my ability and strength. While I was focusing, I heard a notice.[The power of the Yellow Charm Gate]


    * * *


    Kim Hyukjin sat onto his bed. He didnt deliberately sit down; his body just automatically moved into that position. He closed his eyes, his legs crossed in the lotus pose.


    He saw nothing, and he heard nothing.


    [The power of the Yellow Charm Gate has begun to permeate the yers body.]


    [The power of the Yellow Charm Gate has begun to influence the yers body.]


    Words flowed out of Hyukjins lips.


    Illusions and apparitions, distortions and lies, cannot covet me.


    What he spoke was more like an incantation, a mantra that bubbled out of him involuntarily. Just like how humans were unable to control the beating of their heart, he could not control his instincts or the incantation.


    No matter what ravine of evil in this world I must traverse.


    Hyukjins body began to glow faintly with golden energy. It quickly formed a circr shape around him.


    No evil power that seeks to harm me can vite me.


    The golden energy encircling Hyukjins body began to whirl fiercely around him.


    Such is the power of intuition.


    The light red.


    The eye of insight that sees the true nature of things.


    Hyukjins eyes opened. The world surrounding him began to contort. It twisted and distorted, and the hour and minute hands on the clock hanging on the wall began to spin. From his mouth came a voice that was not his, almost like when Sunghyun and Sung-gu chanted magic incantations.


    But there was something that set it distinctly apart from a magic incantation. Magic incantations wereposed of an iprehensible, unknownnguage.


    [May all lies.]


    But the meaning of Hyukjins words was clear.


    [Be shattered.]


    The twisting and distorted space around him shattered like a window with a shrill crash. His eyes opened.


    * * *


    * * *


    ...What was that?


    I had the hazy feeling I had a dream and had said something within that dream.


    Why am I


    Why was I sitting here in the lotus pose? I thought I was in the Yellow Charm Gate, but my bed was nowhere to be seen, and everything around me was entirely gold. It was like I was in an empty room paintedpletely in gold.


    Something definitely happened.


    My head felt clearer, and I knew I had been mumbling something.


    Just now


    I didnt remember it in detail, but it felt like something was engraved in my instincts.


    It feels like I just uttered an incantation


    The sensation was elusive, like it was dangling just out of my grasp, that intensely ufortable feeling of needing to reach out just a tiny bit more to be able to touch it.


    Lets not rush it.


    I took a deep breath to steady myself. It was hazy, but it felt like I had a taste of something on the next level, like I dipped my toes in a new world before returning to reality.


    Just then, I heard a notice.


    [You have passed the test of the Yellow Charm Gate.]


    [The power of the Yellow Charm Gatemands thee.]


    [The Yellow Charm Gates quest has been activated.]


    A quest is a quest. Whats with the powermanding me?


    Not long afterwards, the quest window popped up.


    [Sacrifice of a Strong Wish]


    This is a space imbued with a strong wish. The power of that wish is infinite and carries a noble will. The wishers will has life and wishes to bestow a power.<ol><li>


    Offer the wisher as a sacrifice.</li><li>


    A great reward will be granted depending on the power of the wish.</li></ol>


    Information surged naturally into my mind. I found out what the Yellow Charm Gate was, what the wish was, and what the power that wish possessed was.


    I was so dumbfounded I couldnt help but smile.


    This is Noonas wish?


    As absurd as it was, Noona had a wish like this:


    <em>I wish for my little brother to be happy.</em>


    But the intensity of her prayer for my happiness was far from ordinary. I had no idea how it was possible my sister could have such intense emotions for me. She wished for my happiness more than her own life, and that manifested as this power of a wish.


    By offering a sacrifice, I would achieve happiness. That sacrifice was my older sister herself.


    Is she crazy?


    This wasnt something I could evaluate with my mind or logic. Questions like why and how didnt even apply.


    I dont deserve it


    Who was he to deserve such feelings from Noona? Regardless of the reason or motive, the fact was that Noona had such feelings, and those feelings satisfied some kind of condition and created this situation.


    Someoneno, <em>something</em>walked over to me, appearing in this golden room that definitely had no one else in it.


    Noona.


    Where is this ce?


    My Eye of Perception captured the true nature of that figure. It was her, but not her.<ol><li>Offer the wisher as a sacrifice.</li></ol>


    This image before me was definitely not Noona. But if I offered this image as a sacrificein other words, killed itmy older sister would die in reality. That was the kind of ce this was from the very start.


    Were inside a gate right now.


    A gate?


    Noona lookedpletely the same as usual. I heard a notice.


    [The power of the Yellow Charm Gatemands thee.]


    [Offer the wisher as a sacrifice.]


    [Offer the wisher as a sacrifice and be granted the Badge of Glory.]


    Badge of Glory. I didnt know what it was. I stood up and approached Kim Ahyoung.


    Noona.


    What?


    Nothing.


    I didnt tell her the words that were on my lips. That I was already more than happy enough.


    [The power of the Yellow Charm Gatemands thee.]


    [Offer the wisher as a sacrifice.]


    I steeled my resolve.


    Ill give up on this gates reward.


    This ce never factored into my expectations or ns to begin with. I didnt need the reward it offered, especially if it was earned through sacrificing my sisters life.


    [The power of the Yellow Charm Gatemands thee.]


    [Offer the wisher as a sacrifice.]


    An invisible force pressed down on me. My body throbbed with apulsion that pushed me to move, move, <em>move</em>. I clenched my teeth.


    A ce where will has life.


    That sentence didnt escape me. Here, will had life.


    My will has to be stronger than Noonas.


    The desire to draw out the future with my two hands, unlike the past. The desire to bring happiness to the people I held dear this time. The desire to not let anyone sacrifice themself for me. If all of those could have life breathed into them, I would be able to ignore this ces power.


    Im sure of it.


    Even if I gave up on the reward, I could leave this gate.


    [You are disobeying the authority of the Yellow Charm Gate.]


    [Submit to the authority.]


    Who gave a shit about some authority?


    Id be bringing shame to my regressor name if I were so weak I surrendered to an authority of this level.


    I focused my mind and closed my eyes, strongly refusing thepulsion taking effect on me. I measured the flow of each and every breath, each individual inhtion and exhtion, falling into a trance. Id experienced this state once already. Earlier, it was an unconscious trance, but this time, I moved with intent, and an incantation spilled from my lips.


    Illusions and apparitions, distortions and lies, cannot covet me.


    No matter what ravine of evil in this world I must traverse.


    No evil power that seeks to harm me can vite me.


    Such is the power of intuition.


    The eye of insight that sees the true nature of things.


    My voice changed to a voice belonging to someone else, one that echoed outward in a low tone.


    [May all lies.]


    [Be shattered.]

 Chapter 117

    Chapter 117


    [You have sessfully uttered the Will Incantation.]


    [Temporarily increasing the proficiency of Eye of Perception based on thepletion level of the Will Incantation.]


    [Eye of Perceptions proficiency has increased.]


    The proficiency of Eye of Perception became 3.


    What did I just do?


    I did as my mind bid me to do, my lips moving subconsciously. It wasnt something I learned from someone, nor was it a skill. I simply thought it would be fine to move ording to my instinct and tried it. There was an itch in my chest, and I simply expressed that itch in the form of words.


    The result was that Eye of Perceptions proficiency was increased to 3, though only temporarily.[Eye of Perceptions insight recognizes a false authority.]


    I realized the authority the Yellow Charm Gate was forcing on me was distorted.


    [Destroying the fabricated authority.]


    [The fabricated power is being erased.]


    The heavy pressure on me disappeared.


    [One of the Yellow Charm Gates clear conditions has been fulfilled.]


    [Calcting your achievement.]


    It seemed there were various ways to clear this gate, and I achieved one of those possible routes. In cases like this, the reward would change depending on the clear method.


    [A Peerlessly Perfect Clear Piece has been fulfilled.]


    [A brown Clear Crystal is being generated.]


    A brown Clear Crystal. In my past life, this kind of crystal rarely made an appearance among hundreds of thousands of clears. To put it simply, it could be seen as an enhanced Clear Crystal. It was a higher grade than the purple Clear Crystal you normally saw, and naturally, it often promised greater rewards.


    Two timers appeared in front of my eyes.Eye of Perception Duration 2:00:28Brown Clear Crystal Duration 3:00:22


    Eye of Perceptions current proficiency was 3. The timer was showing that this increased proficiency wouldst two minutes, and the remaining time was ticking down in real-time.


    The brown Clear Crystal having a duration of three minutes probably means


    If I didnt find it within that time, it would transform into a regr purple Clear Crystal.


    Somewhere in this shattered world that was smashed to pieces like ss shards was a brown Clear Crystal.


    Ill find it.


    Finding it didnt feel all that difficult to me.


    Over there?


    I walked to one side. Id experienced this sensation before, back when the Nameless Observer forcibly increased the proficiency of Eye of Perception for me.


    Theres not much time.


    There was only one minute and thirty seconds of upgraded Eye of Perception left.


    I have to run.


    I began to run. While running, I saw the flow of the wind and how I should run for the greatest efficiency. Even as I adjusted my form, a niggling feeling in my chest told me that if I aplished something here, I would be able to achieve even greater growth.


    Will Incantation.


    I had the feeling I would be able to use it at will.


    If I did that again


    I would probably reach a new realm, whatever that was. The type of incantation likely changed which ability of Eye of Perception, particrly one of the active traits, was affected.


    But I dont have time right now.


    There was one minute and ten seconds left. Even finding the brown Clear Crystal in that time would be cutting it close.


    This feeling. Ill be able to feel it again sometime soon.


    I decided not to be too greedy. I ran and ran. When there was only forty seconds left, I saw the brown Clear Crystal shining to the side.


    If I break this, the gate will be cleared.


    Without intentionally wanting to, Eye of Perception read the brown Clear Crystals information.


    [Brown Clear Crystal Illusion]


    The illusion of a Clear Crystal generated within the Yellow Charm Gate. Though it is an illusion, breaking it will aplish the clear and rewards will be distributed. However, the full reward will not be given.


    I put it in my Inventory for now. This was a fake. The real one was hidden somewhere not far from here.


    Darongi.


    [???] marks appeared over Darongis head.


    Ill give you fried chicken if you dig a hole here.


    It didnt take long for the [???] to turn into [!!!]. He hopped to the ground and started wing into it like a ravenous madman. I couldnt even see his paws, they were moving so fast.[Using the innate ability Hole Digging.]


    Darongi dug into the groundposed of a material I couldnt identify.


    I can feel it. Down there.


    The proficiency 3 Eye of Perception clearly saw Darongi going through the ground towards the brown Clear Crystal. It was apletely different feeling from seeing something with my physical eyes. It was like a vivid movie was ying in my head.


    Eye of Perceptions duration ended.


    [The effect of the Will Incantation has faded.]


    [Eye of Perceptions proficiency has decreased.]


    With that, I could no longer see Darongi. The image that had been so clear in my mind vanished.


    Its okay.


    The brown Clear Crystals timer still had fifty-five seconds on it. If I really couldnt get the real one, I could at least break the fake.


    After about ten seconds, Darongi crawled back out the hole with a face full of soot and the brown Clear Crystal in his teeth. Unlike before, I couldnt read its description in detail.


    [Brown Clear Crystal]


    Clear Crystal generated within the Yellow Charm Gate.


    I couldnt tell if this one was real or not, most likely because Eye of Perceptions proficiency had gone down again.


    And


    I pulled out the transcendent item Id recently acquired, Isabel. I saw from the Will Incantation-boosted Eye of Perception just now. The advanced Eye of Perception could read detailed information, and one of the things I saw was that I had to strike a certain point in the middle of the brown Clear Crystal to produce the greatest effect.


    Here I go.


    One clean strike was best, if possible. I aimed towards the point I remembered.


    [Using the special skill Excellent Strike.]


    * * *


    * * *


    Isabel was definitely a transcendent item, no doubt about it. She was weightless in my hand and shot unerringly towards the point I aimed, like she was pinpointing the target and assisting me.


    I hit it exactly.


    It was possible the point on the illusion was different from the point on the real thing, but I did the best I could right now. That was the most important thing, wasnt it?


    As my sword plunged into the crystal, I heard a notice I hadnt before.


    [Ignoring the preys unique trait.]


    Right, that was a special ability of Excellent Strike.Can use the special skill Excellent Strikea medium chance to ignore the preys unique trait


    It was a medium chance, but Id never heard the notice up until now.


    [You have seeded in perfectly destroying the fabricated power of the Yellow Charm Gate.]


    [The Peerlessly Perfect Clear Piece has turned into a Peerlessly Perfect Clear.]


    [Congrattions!]


    The brown Clear Crystal broke into countless fragments and covered my body.


    [The power of the Yellow Charm Gate searches the yers body.]


    [The power of the Yellow Charm Gate is the power of a strong wish.]


    The name of the real power the Yellow Charm Gate possessednot the false or distorted powerwas power of a strong wish. The creator of this wish was likely my sister. What kind of influence would a power imbued with Noonas wish have on me?


    I felt a strong flow of mana. It was so strong there was no way the proficiency 2 Eye of Perception and the proficiency 1 Observers Eye could possibly analyze it.


    [The powerful wish takes effect in its true form.]


    [The powerful wish evaluates the most beneficial thing for the yer.]


    [Isabel is being imbued by the powerful wish.]


    I understood the gist of it. It wasnt hard for me to figure out why Isabel was being imbued by the powerful wish and why this reward was being given to me.


    Because Isabel is my strongest weapon.


    The power of this ce had evaluated that having some kind of effect on my strongest weapon would be the most beneficial thing for me.


    [Isabel - Growth-Type - Partially Sealed]


    An artifact found in the tomb of Isabel, Queen of the Sword Forest. It is imbued with a special spirit ki that chooses its master.


    Grade: Transcendent


    Attack power: 72-84 (currently sealed)


    Effects:<ol><li>


    Disabled</li><li>


    Disabled</li><li>


    Disabled</li><li>


    Disabled</li><li>


    Disabled</li><li>


    Disabled</li><li>


    Ego activated (Activation time has been greatly increased due to a strong wish)</li><li>


    30% offensive innate ability damage amplification</li></ol>


    Special note:<ol><li>


    In a partially sealed state. Most of its strength is sealed.</li><li>


    The ego has selected its bride. The swords bride selection is valid for 300 years.</li><li>


    Under the influence of a strong wish.</li></ol>


    There was a change in the item description itself. The ego activation time greatly increased, and an additional special note was added.


    I heard a voice.


    (Oi. Are you out of your mind?)


    What was this sword saying as soon as she woke up? Now that it wasnt my first time, I was a little more used to conversing with her.


    Why?


    (Stay far, far away from that bitch named Cheon Sooji. Got it?)


    I was <em>wondering</em> what she was going on about, and it happened to be some unrted drivel.


    (Do you understand or not?)


    I wasnt intending on getting close to her anyway. Cheon Sooji was a member of Taeguk Shield, and it was right to maintain an appropriate distance while making use of each other.


    (Youre dead if you cheat on me.)


    Isabel was now imbued with a strong wish, but I started wondering if that was really a good thing.


    (Youre a married man, you hear? Get a hold of yourself. You only need one woman by your side other than your mom and family.)


    It was already bbergasting that a sword had a gender, but I didnt pay much attention to it since I wasnt in a hurry to date right now anyway.


    (Youre my bride. Youre still super lousy and goddamn weak, but youve got a decent foundation, so Ill raise you. Til youre nice and plump and r) Isabel suddenly changed the subject. (You know that skill you just used when attacking the brown Clear Crystal?)


    I used Excellent Strike, yes. Isabel clicked her tongue in disdain.


    (Youve been using a trash technique like that? Lemme see here.)


    A little time passed.


    (Youre still my bride, so you need to fit the part. Fine. Sword Path Tracing? Thats a rtively decent innate ability, at least.)[Isabel is arbitrarily using an innate authority.]


    This sword could use not just an innate ability, but an innate <em>authority</em>. Was it really okay for something this broken to show up in the beginner period? I was shocked, but it was good for me, so I decided to shelve those thoughts.[Fusing Sword Path Tracing and Excellent Strike.]


    An innate ability of mine was fused with a special skill I got as a title effect, with absolutely zero item use or sacrifice. It was done purely through Isabels power.


    A crack appeared along Isabels de.


    (Its alright, dont worry. Ill recover from an injury of this level soon enough.)


    And then came a notice.[Fusion was sessful.]


    I unlocked a new ability.

 Chapter 118

    Chapter 118


    (Its alright, dont worry. Ill recover from an injury of this level soon enough.)[Fusion was sessful.]


    Two abilities were fused.


    [Sword of Insight has been generated.]


    [The base skills have been erased.]


    I unlocked a new ability called Sword of Insight.[As it is the product of fusion between an innate ability and title special skill, Sword of Insight is categorized as an innate ability.]


    [Sword of Insight]


    An advanced innate ability created bybining and pooling the merits of Excellent Strike and Sword Path Tracing in one ce. No matter the situation, it will lock onto the enemys weakness and deliver a powerful attack at the most vulnerable point.


    Sword Path Tracing, an innate ability that forcibly enabled an attack even if both the users arms were cut off, and Excellent Strike, a skill that could deal greater damage than a regr attack and had a unique piercing effect,bined harmoniously to create a new skill.


    Sword of Insight.


    I had the feeling Id heard the name before. It wasnt as famous an innate ability as Sword Path Tracing, but I still remembered hearing it somewhere.


    Isabels voice sounded again in my head.


    (Im not giving you a gift like this because I like you or anything, you hear?)


    The crack that had appeared on Isabels de had already faded a little. She seemed to be recovering automatically.


    (Its just cause youre my bride. I only helped you because it would be embarrassing if you went out into the world without a single decent ability. Got it?)


    All things considered, it was a good thing for me. So this was a transcendent item. It possessed the ability to fuse a skill with a skill, how <em>very </em>useful.


    (Answer already, darn it. I absolutely didnt do this cause I like you or anything!) Isabel kept mumbling to herself. (I just did it on a whim.)


    Fusing skills was something she could do on a whim, huh? Was it because she was under the influence of my sisters wish? In the past, my sisters summary was Devoted Tsundere. I was kind of getting the same feeling from Isabel.


    (I picked this cause I thought it would bepatible with your innate ability.)


    She chose one out of various abilities?


    That meant she could make an ability other than this one.


    (Of course. Who do you think I am? Im Isabel, <em>that </em>Isabel. What do you think? You did well to marry me, right?)


    I had no idea when we got hitched, but in any case, Isabels ability was worthy of acknowledgement.


    (So just know that if you cheat on me, youre dead.)


    Though she seemed awfully fixated on something weird.


    (Anyway, therell be a big synergy effect if youbine this nicely with your innate ability. Sword of Insight is one of the innate abilities the Queen of the Sword Forest had, after all.)


    Isabel. Isabel was this swords name, but it was also the name of the Queen of the Sword Forest.


    [Isabel - Growth-Type - Partially Sealed]


    An artifact found in the tomb of Isabel, Queen of the Sword Forest. It is imbued with a special spirit ki that chooses its master.


    I was wondering what the rtionship was between Isabel the Queen of the Sword Forest and Isabel the Sword, but I held the question back.


    (Ah, jeez. How strange. Ever since that wish or whatever took effect, my chest has been all scratchy)


    Her voice fell silent.


    Times up again.


    The ego had fallen asleep. But I figured I was able to get an ability like this thanks to the strong wish.


    Ill need to thank Noona once I get out of here.


    How strong had her wish been to create a gate like this and give me such a boon? This reward waspletely outside of my ns, and this scenario had never existed in the future I envisioned. It wasnt something I intended, but the result was far better than a scenario I nned and carried out myself.[Leaving the Yellow Charm Gate.]


    The world changed, and I found myself back in my room.


    * * *


    * * *


    My older sister happened to be inside her room.


    Noona. Thanks.


    Noona, who was fiddling with something at her desk, jumped at my voice.


    How about knocking next time?


    I clearly saw her swiftly hide something inside her notebook. I already knew what that thing was. Unfortunately for my sister, I was an Observer and unintentionally saw everything she did in HD resolution.


    The thing she hid was the same Yellow Charm that gave me such a big gift. She seemed to be writing a new one and recing it every day. Her concern for me transcended sister level and went into mother realm.


    Im really thankful.


    I was just grateful. Noona didnt expect anything back. She was making those charms with a wish for my happiness, and nothing in return.


    Give me some of your time.


    Why?


    To go on a date with you.


    Noona scowled. Gross. What do you mean, date? Did you eat something weird?


    Her reaction was natural. Before regressing, I never said anything like this. Even now, I was honestly just sentimental because of the Yellow Charm Gate buff, but normally, I was bad at saying cheesy stuff like this. Asking my sister for a date? We were brother and sister, but if another set of siblings were to hear this, theyd probably call me crazy.


    Oh cmon. Is that really so disgusting? Your expression is so I chuckled. Even her expression of astonishment was hrious. Anyway, give me some of your time. Theres somewhere I wanna take you.


    ...


    Noonas expression positively dripped. Ah jeez, what a pain. Why do I have to go on a date with my little brother? But it was very unfortunate for her that I had a special ability called Eye of Perception.


    State: Good Mood / Joyful / Happy


    <em>Sorry, Noona. This is unintentional, I swear. Im trying not to, but Im automatically reading your feelings.</em>


    Youve done so much for me.


    Shut up. Just wash your feet and go to bed.


    Thanks to my sister, I learned a new thing called Will Incantation. I couldnt use it freely yet, and I didnt even know exactly what it was, but I was given a tiny sneak peek of the stage ahead of me.


    I returned to my room.


    Will Incantation.


    Darongi mbered onto my chest and fell asleep instantly, like he had narcolepsy.


    And the wish imbued in Isabel.


    Those were the two things I got from the Yellow Charm Gate.


    I cant use Will Incantation freely yet.


    Actually, I couldnt even remember the phrase that well. Thatst phrase, what was it again?


    Was it May all lies be shattered?


    I was saying the same words, but the ones I was speaking now didnt carry life in them. The words had to be imbued with life and power to aplish the Will Incantation.


    For now, lets just be satisfied with this.


    I closed my eyes. I had the feeling I could fall asleep in a good mood today. In my head, I recalled and sorted the things I needed to do.


    There were two urgent tasks to settle: the Predator Tree Colony, and Find Charles Owner.


    I started thinking about how to approach the two tasks, but shook my head and put a brake on my brainstorming. Work was good, but resting was just as important.


    Lets rest up tonight.


    I fell asleep, treasuring the warm feeling inside my chest.


    * * *


    One day passed. In just a single night, there was a groundbreaking change.


    <em>One of a yers secrets, talent tes, begins its era.</em>


    The world was being introduced to the concept of talent tes. Using an item first discovered by the US yer Mark, the innovative entrepreneur Raspberry developed and disseminated a talent te reader all over the world.


    The fact that it spread so quickly meant that the preparations for its spread had long been in ce. The talent te reader was probably developed some time ago. In any case, it found its way to Korea as well, and it was in official use at the Korean yers Association. My teammates were also very interested in the talent te reader at the moment.


    Boss. Didja know I went and had my talent tes checked?


    Hyungnim, I had it done as well.


    Both of them were assessed at 30 tes. As Yeonseo spoke, her face flushed with excitement.


    The devices limit is thirty, apparently.


    Hyungnim. I feel like Ive reached the top!


    The current device could only show a max of thirty tes. Thirty wasnt terrible talent, but by the standards of the future, it was also hard to see it as anything outstanding.


    Would you have ever believed the Fist King and Sword Empress would be so happy over thirty tes?


    Though, it was true it was the best number you could get at this point in time.


    What about you, Sunghyun?


    I also got thirty.


    Sunghyun didnt make a big fuss about it.


    You dont seem that happy about it?


    Because I feel like quite a lot of people have gotten thirty, Sunghyun responded quietly, his eyes wandering to a certain person who was opening the door to the coffee shop anding in. It was Choi Sung-gu. His belly had started showing a little. He said something about how he was eating like crazy to earn money these days, something along the lines of eating is what matters most.


    Shabam! I hit thirty, boys! Isnt that great?


    Everyone in the shop turned to look at Sung-gu. His exmation boomed like a cannon going off, and he came scuttling over to us without a hint of embarrassment.


    Ey, Jo Sunghyun. How many did you get?


    Its a secret.


    You couldnt get thirty, right? Just be honest. Hyung will be understanding.


    He covered his mouth and gave a very spiteful Hohoho! Sunghyun didnt bother with him and just asked me, Did you do a talent te test, Hyung?


    Not yet.


    I knew the result of my talent te test from the past. I still couldnt forget that night before I regressed, how painfully my heart had throbbed at those two words. No Talent.


    You wont do it, Hyung?


    Hm, not sure.


    At this point, I wondered whether my having talent tes or not was important, but it would be a lie to say I wasnt curious.


    I have to get past level 40 to be sure Im not an early bloomer.


    I couldnt lie and say I wasnt anxious about the talent te test. There were quite a few yers who experienced explosive growth until the level 30-40 range, even without talent in the past, after all.


    Talent te test, huh.


    The current level of talent te test wasnt all that urate, but I was still curious. What was the difference between the past and current me?


    Ill do it eventually, but


    I wouldnt just blindly rush into it. The least amount of effort for the greatest efficiency. That was my ystyle.


    Senia. Are you streaming?


    Senia didnt appear. We discussed various things in the cafe, and I called Senia multiple times throughout. After about one hour, she finally showed up.


    I heard you were looking for me.


    She probably found out I was looking for her from the stream of one of my partys Streamers. Every gaze in the cafe turned to focus on Senia. Her beauty alone drew the attention of onlookers, and I also heard whispers of awe. But the important thing right now wasnt Senias beauty.


    You know that hot topictely?


    Are you talking about the talent te testing?


    Yeah. Im gonna go do it.


    If I had to do a talent te test anyway, it was best to do it while the Guardians were watching. The Guardians would definitely be deeply interested in the result.


    Im probably the most-watched yer in the Korean server.


    There were even Guardians based in foreign servers who kept sending me messages. They didnt know how many talent tes I had, either.


    If the same No Talent assessmentes out


    I didnt fear that at all.


    It would actually be better for me.


    That would be content the Guardians would go wild over. How fun would it be if the most eye-catching yer on the Korean server other than perhaps the Demon King had a talent te test result of No Talent?


    Senia nodded. Understood. I will prepare to direct the scene.


    We all headed to the yers Association. My party members came too, saying they were curious. Thanks to Song Kiyeol, I was able to skip the waiting time and get tested right away.


    The reading didnt take very long, maybe five minutes at most.


    The test results havee out.


    Song Kiyeol came over holding a piece of paper, the results paper that had said No Talent in the past.

 Chapter 119

    Chapter 119


    We were at the yer talent testing room located on the 14th floor of the yer Center. Song Kiyeol personally brought me the results, a stark difference from the past, when the Head of Personnel, Kim Kangchul, delivered the results.


    Can this also be taken as having seeded in life?


    This time, it wasnt Kim Kangchul, but the Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield and a third generation chaebol, Song Kiyeol. A lot had changed.


    The Guildmaster stopped in front of me, holding the sheet. He hesitated.


    The results are a little


    I silently took the paper from him. My eyesnded squarely on two words written clearly on the sheet.


    [No Talent.]


    Standing next to me, Yeonseo nced over andughed. The Boss talent is 0? She shook her head. Everyone just smiled, dumbfounded.


    No Talent, again?


    How could this be exined?


    I never learned how to wield a dagger, yet could use one with outstanding proficiency. I never learned martial arts, yet could fight hand-to-hand very adeptly. I never yed before as a Sovereignor at all, for that matteryet I took to the role like a fish to water, and no matter what situation I came across, the solution came naturally to me. The same went for enhancement, ande to think of it, I also sessfully tamed a monster.


    So how can it be No Talent?


    It was strange. I did hear that this kind of phenomenon happened with early blooming yers, but


    Song Kiyeol gave me an apologetic look. The weird thing is


    The current talent te reader was about the size of arge backpack. It wouldter be miniaturized, but the current device was bulky. Song Kiyeol told someone to Bring it out, and two men came from deep within the testing room huffing and puffing as they lugged a device the size of a backpack.


    Talent te reader?


    It was my first time seeing one in person. The early model talent te reader was crude, ugly, and even had poor performance.


    Theres smokeing out of it.


    Smoke was billowing out of it, and sparks flew out of it with a bzzt.


    Ahh!


    The two men flinched in rm and dropped the talent te reader, which fell to the ground with a resounding thud.


    I-Im so sorry!


    Im sorry!


    Song Kiyeol gave a bitter smile. Its alright. It was broken anyway.


    His reaction validated my decision. What if the person standing here wasnt the first-born grandson Song Kiyeol, but the second-born granddaughter Song Junghye? If it were the Blood and Iron Witch, she would have dumped the responsibility on these two employees, and they might have had to fullypensate for breaking the talent te reader. The Guildmasters reaction made me think it wasnt all that bad a decision to have picked him instead of Song Junghye.


    I examined the device on the ground.[Observing with Observers Eye.]


    I heard Song Kiyeol say, After testing you, the talent te reader broke. My eyes flickered up to see him hurriedly waving his hand. Of course, Im not trying to say that this is your fault. Please dont misunderstand.


    I nodded and turned my attention back to observing the device. My eye that discerned the true nature of things captured a sort of warped flow that I could only recognize mentally but not put into words.


    Ah


    I understood now. I understood why this device broke and outputted a result of No Talent.


    So thats how it was.


    The reason behind this result was because this device was unable to handle the ss of my talent.


    Right, it was said that there are grades and sses to talent as well.


    Even if two people had thirty talent tes, it didnt mean they had the same talent. The mechanism behind this was never concretely elucidated. It was a definite established theory that the more talent tes a yer had, the more talent they had and the better it was for ying. But there were also cases where someone who didnt have many talent tes was far stronger than someone with a lot of them. We called those people Irregrs. Koreas representative Irregr was the Red Demon Ahn Seohye.


    The current device can measure the talent of the others.


    But it seemed unable to evaluate mine.


    ss


    ss, aka grade.


    Was it like this in the past, too?


    I first had my talent tested at 25, an age at which ones talent tes were mostly closed. Back then, I didnt have the means to get tested earlier, and I was only able to do it when free government-sponsored tests were offered when I was 25.


    At that time, I was tested with a talent te reader five years ahead of this one, a more advanced model. Was it really unable to handle my talents ss?


    Who knows.


    Whatever the case, the result was the same. I got an assessment of No Talent. Despite that, I wasnt unhappy.


    The device lumped everyones talent at thirty. It was unable to assess my talents ss.


    That meant I had a talent at least one level higher than theirs, right?


    Nice.


    I epted the test result. The No Talent I was given in the past and the No Talent I was given today were the same results, but the meaning behind them waspletely different.


    I apologize for showing you such a result. It is likely an error on the part of the machine. Well carry out a re-test shortly.


    No, its alright.


    I shrugged, giving him a lightheartedugh to show I wasnt unhappy. I wanted to tell him to rx, that he didnt have to be so tense.


    Publicly, its better for me to be a yer who has no talent tes.


    That was the whole reason why I joined forces with Taeguk Shield to begin withfor them to take the glory and fame while I reaped the actual benefits in the back.


    I took initiative to broach an issue that wasnt easy for the other party to bring up. You can put me on the lowest rank on the Ranking Board.


    In each server, the yers Associations of each nation put up a national Ranking Board. Currently, the rankings were probably set based on talent te count alone.


    Song Kiyeol stared at me in bafflement. The lowest rank?


    Yes. Since I have no talent.


    But


    After staring at me for a long moment, he nodded.


    State: Baffled / Disbelief / Doubt


    His state was pretty terrible, but he seemed to have epted my words, at least for now.


    Until next time.


    We would meet often in the future. The U-Plex Dungeon was cleared, and talent te readers had made their entrance. From this point onwards, new culture would elerate, taking over faster and faster.


    * * *


    * * *


    Sunhwa and I headed back home. Going from the yer Center to our house only took ten or so minutes by taxi. Sunhwa and I decided to walk back to get some exercise. She looked very indignant.


    So annoying. Ill beat them to a pulp.


    Where did she learn such a bad phrase? I lightly flicked her nose.


    Who said you could say such a foul thing?


    At the risk of sounding like a broken record, this girl was a genius tank. In terms of tanking ability alone, she was one step, no, two steps above me. It wouldnt hurt her even if I struck her sr plexus instead of her nose.


    But she still pretended that it hurt.


    Owie! She rubbed her nose. But Oppa! Im just so irritated by the way those people whispered when we left the testing room.


    The test results were shared live on an electronic disy outside the testing room. Moreover, the name Kim Hyukjin was likely put on the Ranking Board.


    Grr! So annoying!


    Sunhwa stomped in ce. I was okay, so why was this girl so worked up? Of course I had felt the gazes on me as we left the room. The gazes of pity and sympathy, as well as the gazes of ridicule and contempt.


    Well, our party has Yoohyun and Yeonseo in it, after all.


    The most famous person in our party right now was Yoohyun, with Yeonseo in second ce. Yoohyun was the Tutorial Ender, and Yeonseo PVPd at every given opportunity and was steadily racking up fame.


    When we left the room, I also heard people gossiping.


    <em>The party of So Yoohyun and Shin Yeonseo has someone assessed as talentless? How can that be?</em>


    The words seemed mostly harmless, but my Eye of Perception saw the feelings hidden behind them.


    State: Scorn / Excitement / Enjoyment


    It was possible the fact that one of us got a No Talent evaluation was a source of enjoyment or happiness for that person.


    Nngh. Annoying. Annoying. Annoying.


    Fearing another scolding, Sunhwa refrained from violent(?)nguage like beat them up to a pulp and just stomped. Maybe she was just at an age when she was sensitive to things like this.


    Sunhwa. Youve got a tofu mentality, so you need to pay special attention to your mental state.


    But still


    I cant use you if you keep letting yourself be shaken by such trifling things.


    I could no longer bear to use violentnguage like Ill throw you away. With the passage of time, I had be fiercely fond of her. Sunhwa became my real little sister, and just like how Noona cherished me, I cherished my little sister.


    Sunhwas shoulders slumped, and she mumbled a defeated, Got it.


    One day passed. A bicycle-shaped monster appeared in a certain factory in Ansan, Gyeonggi Province. It was a monster that was mentioned in my summary notes.


    <em>October 4, 2018. Ansan, Gyeonggi Province. First machine-type monster appears.</em>


    The machine monster had the name Trike. It actually did have three wheels, and was the size of a regr minicar. There were hundreds of de-like mouths on its wheels.


    <em>A monster that preys on children. Has a special ability to call and lure children under the age of 7.</em>


    After luring young children with that ability, it liked to crush them under its wheels.


    A monster that devours children killed by the de-like teeth on each of its three wheels.


    It being a machine monster wasnt that important. Other than its inclination to hunt and eat children with a gruesome method, not much set it apart.


    The important thing is that its appearance marks the point at which the government recognizes the strength of yers.


    It was the same as the past.[A new monster, Trike, has appeared.]


    Within just a few hours of the incidents outbreak, the government and military acknowledged it officiallythe monster could not be hunted with modern technology. They officially requested the support of the yers Association. Naturally, the influence of yers would grow more and more in the future.


    Ill stay out of this expedition.


    The Trike could be subdued easily enough even without me. I couldnt go and kill every monster out there. The speed at which new culture took over would steadily increase, and it was folly to think I could block every gate and dungeon, every monster. The Korean server had to develop self-sufficiency.


    And we only have eleven days left for the Find Charles Owner quest.


    I could dy the Predator Tree Colony scenario as much as I wanted, but the Charles quest had a time limit.


    Im sleepy.


    The time was 12:05 AM. Maybe because the U-Plex Dungeon consumed a lot of my mental power, I was sleepy again. Maybe my stamina hadnt fully recovered. I went andid on my bed. ying was important, but so was restoring ones stamina.


    I fell asleep.


    Oh.


    Inside my dream, I could clearly feel it.


    This is definitely


    A dream I could feel. A dream I could dream while being aware I was in a dream.


    A lucid dream.


    Right now, I was lucid dreaming. But it wasnt a simple lucid dream. I saw a sign for a road called Ansan, Gyeonggi Province. I touched my body. It felt entirely like my own.[Observing with Observers Eye.]


    I could even use Observers Eye and Eye of Perception. It just felt strange somehow. Was it because this was a dream? It felt different from reality in a way I couldnt quite ce.


    Its a lucid dream, but


    That much was certain. My body was lying on the bed. I knew that.


    No way.


    This was no simple lucid dream, and my sudden wave of sleepiness was not just umted fatigue.


    In a sh of enlightenment, I realized what I was dreaming.

 Chapter 120

    Chapter 120


    What I was experiencing was no ordinary lucid dream. I pulled out my phone and checked the date.


    Oct. 5, 2018. 7:42 PM.


    I fell asleep on the night of October 4th, the night when a machine monster called Trike appeared. I fell asleep, and now, I was seeing the future one dayter.


    This is a precognitive dream.


    A dream that showed you the future.


    I clearly recalled looking through my notebook before falling asleep. The dates of events in the past were fresh in my mind, and written in my notes was this:


    <em>October 5, 2018. The Trike that showed up in Ansan, Gyeonggi Province was sessfully hunted.</em>


    <em>First sessful raid carried out by the Association.</em>


    But the future I was seeing was different from what was written.


    What?


    Many yers were dying.


    They did kill the Trike.


    Jo Sunghyun was in the future I saw, and he dealt thest blow. He was known in the past to have dealt the finishing blow as well. That much was the same as the past.


    But then, it diverges.


    It wasnt that a new monster showed up. I couldnt see everything clearly, most likely because I had a fledgling level of Precognitive Dream. I could only see things in choppy pictures rather than one smooth, continuous film. What I could say for certain was that I wasnt there. Inside the precognitive dream, I existed merely as a formless ghost of sorts, an onlooker.


    What was that?


    Thest scene I saw


    I woke up with a gasp.


    What I just dreamed was definitely a precognitive dream.


    Did I always have the Precognitive Dream ability? I never once experienced anything like this in my past life.


    I had a precognitive dream. I was sure it was one, and what I saw was the future.


    The current time was 1 AM. I immediately called Sunghyun, and thankfully, he picked up.


    Sunghyun, where are you?


    Im heading to Ansan. To go kill the Trike.


    Are you alone?


    There are a few yers with me. The yers Association provided a bus.


    He and the others would sessfully kill the monster.


    Theres a chance the precognitive dream was wrong.


    But I had a bad feeling. The future didnt always go as seen in a precognitive dream. Variables that changed in real time could also create apletely different future. But even so, I couldnt shake off this bad feeling.


    Are they all yers you know?


    No. The only yer I know is Mr. Gong Jinhoon. Whats wrong?


    No, nothing. Ah. Ill call you back in a little bit.


    Okay, Hyung.


    I hung up.


    What the hell <em>was </em>that?


    I closed my eyes. I recalled the scene I had just seen within the precognitive dream again and again, repeatedly examining the world within the dream with Observers Eye. And then, I noticed a clue that had escaped my attention.


    Ah.


    All of the yers died. But not a single drop of blood was spilled. Everyone died with hard, stiff corpses.


    The world within the precognitive dream.


    I wasnt in the dream anymore, so it wasntpletely certain


    But there was definitely a survivor in that world.


    It was hard to say they were really a survivor. I sat down in the lotus pose.


    Meditation.


    Meditation, the act of reflecting or observing an object or a phenomenon with a tranquil mind. I recently had a taste of what it was like, but it was still an unknown domain for me. In my past life, meditation was known as one of the fundamental virtues a top-ss yer had to learn.


    I tried to consciously enter that state of stillness. I examined the precognitive dream I had time and time again as an objective third party.


    Words simr in feeling to the Will Incantation seemed to seep into my mind.


    The rigid corpses were like tree bark.


    An incantation took form within my mind.


    Red thread is proof of the ughter.


    There, buds a tree that preys.


    Suddenly, it felt like I took a hard blow to my head.


    Ugh!


    My body unconsciously fell forward, and I clutched my head. There was nothing behind me. My head felt numb, and my eyes throbbed.


    This is hard.


    Meditating on a precognitive dream I had already dreamt, trying to recall and observe a dream that had passed, consumed far more mental power than I imagined, and my mental fatigue tranted directly into physical exhaustion.


    But I saw it in the end.


    One survivor. Hardened, stiff corpses. A skein of red thread. And even the smell of rotten milk. A piece of information came to my mind based on these clues.


    <em>The Red Demon Ahn Seohye. She first made an appearance in Andong, North Gyeongsang Province.</em>


    Koreas representative Irregr, the Red Demon Ahn Seohye. At that time, countless people in the Andong Hahoe Vige were killed by the Red Demon. Of course, at first, no one knew it was her.


    For a while, she went around wreaking havoc, and then


    After killing hundreds of students from Myeongjin High School in Seoul in one bloody massacre, she disappeared. No one knew her whereabouts. There were just spections that she joined the Demon King.


    <em>The hardened, stiff corpses were almost like dry wooden bark.</em>


    I had also spotted red threads all over the site. Precognitive Dream had shown me theing of the Red Demon in advance.


    Why was she there?


    If it were the same as the past, she should have first appeared in Andong Hahoe Vige. There was no record of her showing up in the 1st official raid of the yers Association, the Trike Raid.


    Weve diverged once again from the past.


    That, in itself, wasnt a big issue. The problem was that Jo Sunghyun was there, and so was the Red Demon.


    Red Demon.


    Wasnt meeting her now far better than encountering herter at an unexpected time and ce?


    I know shell show up.


    I also had a rough grasp of what method she used to kill and hunt people.


    Other than the Demon King there are no yers in the current period who can overpower me.


    After meeting lots of yers, I could be sure of that.


    Even if the Red Demons there


    As long as I knew when and where, and knew what tricks she used, I could prevail. Just like when I met the Fist King So Yoohyun, and when I met the Sword Empress Shin Yeonseo, the Typhoon Jo Sunghyun, and the me Lord Choi Sung-gu. The same went, of course, for the Spear Demon and the Poison Witch.


    The tree that preys must mean the Predator Tree.


    If something changed, it was probably because of me. Plus, I had the Map of the Predator Tree Colony. It was possible I could get some kind of clue rted to trees that preyed. Since things changed because of me, I decided to act.


    Im going.


    And if my precognitive dream was right? If the Red Demon really showed up?


    Ill decide when the timees.


    * * *


    * * *


    4 AM.


    I gently shook Sunhwa awake.


    Im sleepy. Cant I have just five more minutes? Sunhwa whined.


    Nope, sorry.


    Wah.


    Sunhwa followed me blearily, only half-awake. She wasnt a morning person. After giving her a few pieces of leftover fried chicken from dinnerst night, she straightened right up. Fried chicken was really the best cure for morning drowsiness. The more surprising thing was that Noona was actually up before us, gnawing on the chicken.


    No wonder the chicken was always gone by the time I got up.


    Noonas face reddened ever so slightly. A blush so faint I could only pick up on it because I had the Observer ss spread over her cheeks.


    This is the first time Ive done this.


    ...


    It really is.


    But this wasnt the first time I woke up to find the box empty.


    Its the first time, okay?


    Okay, got it.


    Far from judging her, I would happily buy this sister of mine a whole fried chicken restaurant, not just a box of it. Why was she so embarrassed? What was so embarrassing about this? In any case, Noona slipped away into her room, looking slightly irritated.


    Ah. This


    It was inconvenient, no matter how you sliced it. I needed a car. Thankfully, Yoohyun had one, and we immediately set off for Ansan, Gyeonggi Province. Inside the car were Yoohyun, Sung-gu, Sunhwa, and me. Yeonseo called to say she would be going there by other means.


    Soon, the raid will start.


    The raid would begin with a chase of the Trike. There was probably an evacuation of the Unawakenedthe civiliansgoing on right now.


    Sitting in the drivers seat, Yoohyun scratched his head. Hyungnim. If we were going to jump into the raid, shouldnt we have gone earlier?


    This is the right time.


    I knew it! I thought that would be the case.


    Yoohyun didnt ask why. Sitting in the passenger seat, Sung-gu shook his head, as if fed up.


    Not even asking why? Why this is the right time? Whats with your I knew it?


    If Hyungnim says so, then thats how it is.


    Haah so whatever reasoning goes, is that what youre saying?


    Hyungnim said so, didnt he?


    Sung-gu shook his head again. This partys crazy. A crazy party. Theres not a single sane person other than me.


    And yet, he jumped awake at the break of dawn to join us. I just smiled and didnt give them a detailed exnation of the situation.


    Because I had the experience and records, the knowledge of many people from my past life.


    <em>A Precognitive Dreamer does notmit the foolish act of thering about their precognitive dream to many people.</em>


    The more you talked about a precognitive dream, the more people learned about it, the more that in itself became a variable, making it more and more likely that the future would diverge from the precognitive dream.


    Ill minimize the variables as much as possible.


    That was why I cut it close, time-wiseso that things would go as I saw, and as few variables woulde into y as possible.


    But there <em>was </em>one thing I had to say.


    Its possible I paused. It was a little hard to say. ...I might end upmitting murder.


    Cough! Yoohyun spat a mouthful of the coffee he was drinking onto the steering wheel. However, he quickly came to his senses. If theres someone who deserves to be killed, then you have to kill them. Mmhm.


    Sung-gu shivered. What are you saying? Are you serious?


    ...


    I was serious. If a situation arose where I had to kill the Red Demon, if the choice fell to me, then I would make it.


    We just have to hope it doesnte to that, I said.


    Fuck. Youre serious. Ah. Im nuts. I was seriously, really wrong foring here with you guys. Sung-gu stared out the window, huffing and puffing as he wed at his face. Even while doing so, he continued, What youre saying is that if something like that happens, we shouldnt stop you, right?


    ...


    Despite his dramatic acting, he understood right away.


    Fuck Ill pray nothing like that happens. I dun wanna see someone die in front of me, man.


    We drew steadily nearer to the raid site. Currently, yers weremunicating back and forth with one another while chasing the fleeing Trike. The Trikes mobility was more threatening than its offensive ability. As it fled all over the ce, it would devour little children.


    I got a sit-rep from Song Kiyeol.


    Theyre still pretty impressive.


    The yers were hemming in the Trike like they were coursing a hare. I opened up Google Maps and shared it with the others.


    Here. This point is where the Trike will be cornered.


    Right now, the yers were doing a drive hunt. They were raiding quite well under themand of the Analyst Han Seokmin. Having gotten the info in advance, we headed directly to the clearing to wait. Among the yers standing by in the clearing were Cheon Sooji and Byeon Gilsup. The Poison Witch sent me a greeting with her eyes, but I pretended not to see it. There was something more important at hand.


    About ten yers I dont know.


    I scanned the surroundings with Eye of Perception and Observers Eye, searching for the Red Demon that might be here. My gaze was suddenly drawn to a pile of steel bars, and the presence I felt behind it.

 Chapter 121

    Chapter 121


    There were thin threads scattered here and there in the clearing. Fluttering in the wind were Red threads so thin you couldnt see them unless you squinted.


    Theres a woman behind the bars.


    A petite woman was sitting towards the back of the pile. I didnt approach her directly, just discreetly walked closer and activated Eye of Perception. Thankfully, Eye of Perception worked on her.


    Her name is


    I was doubtful, but it really was Ahn Seohye, the murderer called the Red Demon in my previous life.


    [yer]


    Name: Ahn Seohye


    Age: 19


    Level: 34


    ss: Barrier Magician


    Guardian: -(Cannot be read due to a special barrier)


    Innate ability: [Predator Barrier] [Pause]


    State: Scared / Motivated / Good


    Disposition: Fearful / Misandrist / Just


    Summary:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    Wounded Barrier Magician</li><li>


    Distrusting Girl</li></ol><ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    The disposition/state/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li>


    Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    I couldnt believe my eyes.


    Level 34?


    Being Level 34 at this point in time made her the best of the very best.


    What? How?


    That level was outside the realm ofmon sense. I was sure of it.


    As expected, shes an Irregr.


    The Red Demon Ahn Seohye was far from a regr yer, both in the past and present. Her level was more of an indication of her being aided by some external force rather than a gauge of her own talent. That was the most likely possibility.


    To forcibly raise a yers level


    That required intense involvement in the System. Even a Guardian would suffer a huge loss while doing so.


    Which Guardian is it?


    This kind of level would have required not just sponsoring, but sacrifice. Very rarely, there were Guardians willing to go so far, Guardians so crazy for yers that they cut their flesh and bled for them. But that wasnt necessarily a good thing. Guardians like that were typically obsessed with their favorites, and there were many cases where that obsession went wayward.


    There are also Guardians who interfered so excessively that they lost all strength and were extinguished.


    So where was Ahn Seohye on that spectrum? Her name was the same as the Red Demon, but something was a little weird.


    State: Scared / Motivated / Good


    Disposition: Fearful / Misandrist / Just


    Both her state and disposition were extremely contradictory. She was both scared but motivated, and good and just but hated men.<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    Wounded Barrier Magician</li><li>


    Distrusting Girl</li></ol>


    Seeing as her ss was in her summary, there was no doubt she waspatible to the nth degree with the ss Barrier Magician.


    Distrusting Girl


    I had a hunch that the young woman I was seeing through Eye of Perception had been hurt a great deal by men. That was the only thing I coulde up with. She was sitting there with a barrier up and preparing for something, but I didnt feel any murderous intent from her. Moreover, she wasnt showing any hostility towards the yers.


    Somethings different.


    It was different from my precognitive dream. I didnt think my dream waspletely off, but that some kind of variable was taking effect on the future Id seen in the dream, the present.


    The more I looked, the more shocked Ahn Seohyes status made me.Innate ability: [Predator Barrier] [Pause]


    The fact top Rankers had innate abilities from so early on no longer surprised me, and I could also find rationale for her level being so high. After all, there were always Irregrs out there, and once in a blue moon, there were people who raised their levels in a way that went outside the norm. It was definitely possible for someone to level up fairly quickly if they used an illegitimate method, unlike me.


    Predator Barrier.


    What I gleaned from the world within my precognitive dream was that I would be able to get a clue rted to the Map of the Predator Tree Colony here. Could that [Predator Barrier] ability be rted to that clue?


    Yes, it is.


    The reason for my certainty was the Map of the Predator Tree Colony in my Inventory. It was shing with a yellow light. The moment I started examining Ahn Seohye with Eye of Perception, it started to glow. I didnt know the nature of the connection between the two, but they were definitely closely rted.


    I have to find out more.


    I put that aside for now. The other innate ability was ridiculous. [Pause]?


    Youre telling me a yer can impose a Pause?


    I didnt know if her [Pause] was the same thing as the one I knew. It might not be the same effect as the Pause authority used by Streamers and Guardians. No, at this stage, it probably wasnt. But what if that ability was developed over a long period of time? If her level wasnt 34, but 68? Or 100?


    It might have almost the same effect as the Pause authority.


    If so, it could exin the past I remembered.


    She managed to flee despite beingpletely surrounded.


    Even after killing countless people, the Red Demon disappeared with ease, leaving only the rumor that she had joined the Demon King. She was a legendary mass murderer who singlehandedly killed hundreds of people. Such inconceivable acts were possible if she had Pause.


    But even so, if she fights one-on-one with me I can beat her.


    I was confident. If we fought one-on-one, I could overwhelm her. When it came down to it, my ss was the pr opposite of hers. I had an eye that could discern the true nature of things, and she had the ability to make a barrier that distorts the true nature of things. I could tell the moment I saw it.


    In terms of ability alone, Im on top, but


    It was a little confusing. I came here resolved to kill, to bloody my hands for the sake of preventing so much needless death in the future. But the Ahn Seohye I was seeing in person was different. She wasnt thinking of killing the yers. She was focusing on making a barrier, and that barrier wasnt deleterious in the least.


    I checked the flow with Observers Eye, and it was absolutely not a harmful barrier.


    A barrier that can hinder the Trikes movements and protect the yers.


    I couldnt be sure of the exact ability or concrete effects. I just had the basic gist of it. I also didnt think Ahn Seohye couldpletely fool my senses.


    What I was seeing now was different from the past and the precognitive dream Id seen.


    * * *


    * * *


    While I was thinking, Yeonseo arrived.


    Boss Hyukjin. Im here. Looks like Im notte to the party.


    As always, Yeonseo wore a pretty smile, her eyes twinkling, a thing that had produced so many Sword Empress crushers. Even now, quite a lot of yers were sneaking nces at her. One guy was even uttering an amazed Wow Even for a guy with no interest in the opposite sex like me, Yeonseos smile was truly beautiful. But the really funny thing was that her smile wasnt just a critical hit on men.


    It also worked on the woman Id been observing this entire time.State: Longing / Trust / Admiration


    Ahn Seohyes status changed the moment she saw Yeonseo, who had been garnering fametely via 1 vs. 1 PVPs.


    Summary:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    Wounded Barrier Magician</li><li>


    Girl in Need of Help</li></ol>


    With Yeonseos appearance, Distrusting Girl changed to Girl in Need of Help. Perhaps because she rxed a little, Eye of Perception managed to project her face in my mind.


    Shes 19?


    She didnt look like it at all.


    She looks around Sunhwas age.


    A petite frame. White skin. A short bob. Cute, innocent eyes. Apletely different appearance from the Red Demon I imagined.


    Just then, a loud shout rang in the clearing.


    Weve sessfully cornered the Trike!


    This was a terribly amateurish drive hunt by future standards. Normally, it was standard to keep your voice down during a raid. Later, yers would use walkie-talkies tomunicate during the raid, but that was a thing to considerter.


    They did manage to corner it.


    The Trike was driven into the clearing. This child-eating monster turned its front wheel every which way, looking for a way out. However, it was already surrounded. The yers closed in on it, and in the end, the Trike was hunted down. Sunghyun shot the leaping Trike down with a Wind Arrow, and it fell t on its face. The raid was a sess.


    As I watched from my position as an Observer, one step removed from the action, I knew that Ahn Seohye had helped. The Trike was slowed down thanks to her, which allowed Sunghyun tond a precise hit on it.


    Even without her help, they definitely could have killed it.


    But there might have been some damage on the yers side. They hunted it more easily thanks to her.


    The changed past. My wrong precognitive dream. Ahn Seohye being different from my expectations.


    Several pieces were out of ce. I needed to look into this more. For now, I shelved my n to murder today.


    A few yers found Ahn Seohye hiding behind the steel bars.


    Over here! Theres a child over here!


    And I heard a voice telling me shed been sessfully rescued.


    Are you alright, child?


    Her face was extremely red, and her body shook uncontrobly, be it from shyness or fear. I watched as she was escorted away.


    * * *


    The raid was sessful. This happy news was ryed nationwide via mass media, and the entire country was overtaken by festive rejoicing, even though it was just a single Trike. Much had changed from the past indeed.


    I needed some time to think, so I went into a caf near the clearing and sat down. As usual, Yeonseo had some nonsense to say.


    Boss Hyukjin. Is this where were having our date?


    I was probably immune to her smile by now.


    My god, dont you get tired of it? Asking for a date every day?


    Everyone was scrolling through the articles written today on their phones. Sunghyuns name was prominently featured. He was indeed a genius yer whod scored a talent te reading of thirty. His name was making a ssh in the headlines as a Magician of Wind.


    I wasnt thinking too hard about the raid sess story being publicized nationwide.


    What is it?


    What was I missing?


    What could it be?


    I closed my eyes and thought about what I failed to see yesterday, what I didnt realize from my meditation yesterday. What was escaping my attention from that world within the precognitive dream? What was the puzzle piece that differed from the past?


    No way.


    After a long time, I realized something.


    No way.


    I remembered something. <em>Someone. </em>Someone who should have been alive at this point in time. Someone who should have been active now. A variable that had changed from the past.


    Thats right.


    Originally, Seo Joohwan should have been here too. In the past, he was one of the yers who participated in the raid.


    Disposition: Evil / Violent / Fake


    Summary: Violent Pedophile


    At the end of the raid, we found Ahn Seohye. What would have happened if Seo Joohwan had been there?


    A young-looking girl trembling in fear.


    An isted, unprotected girl. Would Joohwan have left such a child alone? The moment I remembered the puzzle piece called Seo Joohwan, a scene appeared instantly in my mind. That one clue connected all the pieces.


    In the past, Joohwan was there. Now, hes not.


    That was the change. That was the piece I was forgetting.


    In the past, I wasnt there. Now, I am.


    Those two things became variables in this situation. I heard a voice.


    Fuck. Look at this guy, hes seriously not right. You think its normal for someone to stay like that for thirty minutes straight?


    Dont insult Hyungnim, man.


    But cmon, is that really normal? Anyone can have moments of concentration, but the dudes a fuckin monk.

 Chapter 122

    Chapter 122


    Apparently, I had my eyes closed for thirty minutes. I had fallen into meditation without realizing it.


    Just then, someone came into the caf.


    There were quite a few people other than us in the caf, and most of their gazes shot towards the entrance. That was because the person who strode through the door was Cheon Sooji.


    Someone made an undisguised sound of admiration.


    Iyaa


    Cheon Sooji wouldter be a popr model. Yeonseo gave people asting impression of cuteness and prettiness, but Sooji had an arrogant beauty that overwhelmed people as soon as theyid eyes on her. Though, of course, it didnt affect me much.


    Sooji walked over like she was used to having people stare, clearly heading towards us. Her expression was cold at a nce, and the light click of high heels that sounded with every step added to her mature aura.


    So everyone was here.


    Did Guildmaster Song send you?


    Youre so heartless. Cant you at least pretend to be happy to see me?


    Sooji brought over a chair and took a seat next to me like it was natural, and Yeonseo smiled brightly at her.


    Unnie. You have to be a customer to sit here. You should go order first.


    Ah, really?


    As soon as Sooji got up, Yeonseo swiftly stole her seat.


    No way around it, Ive got to do some housekeeping.


    ...


    I had no idea what she was going on about, but I was morefortable with Yeonseo being next to me than Sooji. And was I just imagining it, or was Isabel trembling inside my Inventory?


    That type of woman is dangerous. Just look. Look at how many dudes are ncing at her.


    But the same went for Yeonseo. Did she not feel the gazes on her?


    And shes treacherous, mark my words. Just know that sexiness isnt everything. Got it, Boss?


    Yeah. I get that youre good at spouting nonsense.


    In the meantime, Sooji came up to me again. On my right was Sunhwa, and on my left was Yeonseo.


    Hyungnim. I want to sit next to you, too.


    After mercilessly ignoring more nonsense, this time from Yoohyun, I asked Sooji a question. She ended up sitting across from me.


    The thing I asked you to look into?


    I have it here.


    She passed me a paper filled with personal details. I read through it.


    Name: Ahn Seohye.


    The age I saw with Eye of Perception was 19, but her registered age was 18. Her birth had been registeredte, although that sort of thing almost never happened these days.


    Shes had a very underprivileged home environment.


    Her mom passed away when she was young, and she grew up with her single father.


    My god


    What I read made me think her hatred of men was fully justified.


    She was bullied in middle school.


    A group of boys took the lead in harassing her. Their harassment was so severe it was difficult to describe in detail, but the boys were only given a light p on the hand and were let off.


    And it actually caused her to be bullied even more.


    It was the same in high school. My brows subconsciously furrowed.


    Holy shit.


    By some sad twist of fate, Ahn Seohyes father was an even more wicked and terrible human than Seo Joohwan.


    To his own daughter


    He did many disgusting things to her. More enraging and dumbfounding was that he started doing those things when Seohye was six, in elementary school.


    How could such a piece of shit end up being a father? If it were me, I would have poisoned him to death.


    ...


    I could believe that Cheon Sooji would really do that. Just reading about it made anger surge within me. When it started, at the age of six, she was far younger than my little sister Sunhwa. Her father did unspeakable things to such a young child, criminal acts that made ones blood go cold. He was a beast in human skin who could never, ever be forgiven.


    Its all there, but she also asked the police and several agencies for help multiple times.


    But nothing came of it. In fact, one crazy policeman even asked her, plunging even more daggers in the already wounded Seohye, Are you sure you didnt enjoy it? Why didnt you say anything all this time? Those incredibly shitty words were not rational, but this world was never rational to begin with.


    Shes lived her life without getting any protection from anyone.


    After returning from the police station, Seohyes father was furious and abused her even more. His methods became more and more obstinate and perverted.


    What would have happened if someone came up with a smiling face to the scared Seohye who was desperate for help? What if that person was Seo Joohwan? And what if she suffered yet another terrible crime from a man who promised to help her?


    Thats more than enough to push her to be the Red Demon.


    Didnt that mean that at this point in time, it was still possible to rehabilitate her? I met her before she became the Red Demon. There was still a chance. Might it be possible to guide the Irregr who became a mass murderer in my previous life down a different path?


    Youre really fascinating. You look cool-headed, but youre concerned about little things like this.


    Sooji was sitting with her legs crossed, absolutely oozing provocative charm. Some people on the Inte said she had lips that called for a kiss, and they werent wrong. Those lips colored bright red with lipsticka color so red it would look bad on most womensuited her all too perfectly.


    Thats why I think youre really charming.


    Her summary was Queen Wanting to Submit again. I had no idea who or what she was submitting to, but that was beside the point. I got up.


    This wasnt in my ns, but


    I might be able to prevent Ahn Seohye from bing a devil. Seeing me get up, Sooji smiled.


    In case you were concerned about her, I kept her with me.


    You did?


    Yes. Even if she went home, only that alcoholic sorry excuse for a father would be there.


    Seohye trusted women more than men.


    She was super into the hamburger I got her.


    Sunhwas head whipped up at the mention of hamburgers. Her eyes were extremely wary up until moments ago, but they had rxed a little. Fried chicken and hamburgers were the magic foods Sunhwa went wild for. I watched her swallow her drool with a helpless inward chuckle. There werent even any hamburgers here.


    Shes waiting in my car. Do you want to go meet her?


    Was Cheon Sooji always such a perceptive woman in the past? I didnt think so. She was a Queen, and as such, she enjoyed dominating and controlling others. She wasnt a woman who needed to be attentive.


    Youre extremely perceptive. Thank you.


    If youre thankful, have a drink with me. Ill pay, she said. She stared at me with a veiled smile. Even better if itste at night.


    ...


    I live alone, you know.


    It was best not to respond to such utterly useless words.


    Yeonseo. Help me out a bit.


    Got it, Boss. Whatever you need, just give me the word. If I help you, Ill be the winner again. Yeonseo grinned, her eyes curving into the crescents responsible for so many Sword Empress crushers. Ill stay by your side and help you every day.


    * * *


    * * *


    I decided not to rush things. I asked Yeonseo to take Seohye to my family doctor, since the girl had a deep sense of goodwill towards Yeonseo.


    There were only ten days left to find Charles owner.


    If we fail, it cant be helped.


    Clearing it would be great, but I had a feeling we were cutting it close, time-wise. I decided to turn my attention more towards the Red Demon issue. It would be nice if I had two bodies, but I didnt, and I had to prioritize.


    I got a call from Yeonseo.


    Song Kiyeol said he would actively help us.


    I know.


    Man, you treat a 3rd gen chaebol like hes your assistant. As expected of our boss.


    Its a win-win rtionship.


    Anyway, with his help, I think shell be taken in by a protection agency in the Sungshin Foundation.


    It was bittersweet news. When that child desperately banged societys doors for help on her own, no one was able toe to her aid. No, they <em>didnt</em>e to her aid. But now that a grandson of the Sungshin corporation was stepping in, the way opened up like Moses parting the sea. It was sad and regretful, but this was reality. That was why I needed to work and live even harder, to carve a ce for myself and my family in this cruel world.


    I think she''ll get proper protection now.


    Thats good.


    Because youre paying special attention to her, I think shes even got a bodyguard?


    Really?


    Song Kiyeol was handling the work I asked of him very nicely. The way he proactively went above and beyond what I asked him to do really made me think it was good I chose him instead of his sister Song Junghye.


    That sorry excuse for a father wont even be able to get close to her in the future. Seriously, how can such a piece of shit be a dad?


    Did you get any info rted to the Predator Barrier?


    Yeah. After I bought her two hamburgers, she spilled all the beans.


    Predator Barrier. Corpses that grew stiff like tree bark. Predator Tree Colony. Was there really no connection?


    She says its a barrier she makes by scattering Predator Tree seeds. The effect of the barrier can change depending on the casters will.


    It could give a buff, or it could kill. It sounded like a very useful barrier.


    But she says its strongest when shes hunting something.


    Makes sense. Its called [Predator Barrier], after all.


    The next piece of information was quite interesting.


    And apparently, she can pick up those seeds in a special field.


    A special field?


    Yeah. Shes got a ss called Barrier Magician.


    I already knew that.


    She can create a special gate.


    She could go through that gate to a different field.


    The name of that field is?


    Predator Tree Colony.


    The Barrier Magician Ahn Seohye, Koreas most famous Irregr, the Red Demon. She was one of the puzzle pieces connected to the Predator Tree Colony.


    * * *


    I obtained one clue rted to the Predator Tree Colony. However, it didnt look like I could go and meet Seohye right away, I also made a conscious decision not to rush my meeting with her. I nned on getting to know her slowly while she got closer to Yeonseo and received special care from Sungshins affiliated protection agency. Yeonseo said she didnt think it would take long for the girl toe around.


    Just is in her fundamental disposition.


    What tragedies must a fundamentally good person have suffered to be a mass murderer? I couldnt even imagine.


    Ill take it slow approaching her.


    If I could have a positive rtionship with a Red Demon in her prime or have her join the team, that would be a huge boon for us.


    That just leaves finding Charles owner, but


    For this one, I was stumped. Who could possibly be the owner of a Twin-Headed ck Dog, of all monsters? All I knew was that it was for sure not a yer. We had ten days left.


    One day passed, and Sunhwa came into my room.


    Im back from school.


    Sunhwa was adjusting well to the school she had transferred into. I was proud of her. She seemed to have good rtionships with others at school, which I knew because she liked to bum around in my room after school and chat.


    Oppa. Can I go meet up with Seohye unnie today?


    Why?


    We promised to go eat hamburgers together.


    I tousled Sunhwas head. I didnt get why she sought permission for stuff like this from me.


    Go and have fun.


    But, um, she said she also wanted to meet you.


    All of a sudden? Already? After just one day? That was surprising, considering that she likely had a deep distrust and hatred of men.


    I praised you a lot. Unnie also knows its thanks to you that she was taken in by protective services.


    ...


    Sunhwa tended to be a little loose-lipped. Apparently, she had thered the ins and outs of everything to Ahn Seohye in no time. That wasnt outside of my expectation, but it was a lot faster than I thought.


    A beautiful friendship won through hamburgers! Seohye unnie is really nice. She even bought me hamburgers.


    Then, she boasted that she and Seohye were messaging each other a lot on KakaoTalk.


    She also said shed buy me fried chicken. Isnt she so nice?


    Does buying you hamburgers and fried chicken make someone nice?


    Of course!


    In any case, I was able to meet Ahn Seohye with the help of Yeonseo and Sunhwa. Our meeting took ce in a fried chicken restaurant in downtown Seoul.

 Chapter 123: Cross the Ravine of Fire (2)

    Chapter 123: Cross the Ravine of Fire (2)


    ...Hello


    Ahn Seohye greeted me with a face frozen with obvious tension. After I gave her a casual greeting back, she expressed her thanks with a halting and strained voice.


    I dont know why you helped me like this, but Thank you so much.


    I felt her emotions through Eye of Perception. She was scared of me, but her feelings of gratitude were real. And through Observers Eye, I saw through the true nature of the fear I was feeling.


    Darkness.


    There was intense darkness in the depths of Seohyes eyes. The wounds and pain inflicted on her over many years were ingrained deep in her heart, creating a pool of inky darkness so deep I thought for a moment it would swallow me whole.


    She didnt use a debuff skill on me or anything.


    And yet, the wounds engraved on this childs very existence were so grave she had something close to a debuff effect on me. Eye of Perception and Observers Eye gave me a keen sense of just how many injuries this youngdy had suffered and endured.


    Physical contact, like a handshake, was utterly out of the question. We began to talk, and thanks to Yeonseo and Sunhwa being there, our meeting went on harmoniously.


    After some time, I asked the question that was on my mind.


    Id like to hear a little about the Predator Tree Colony.


    About that


    Seohyes exnation went on, and it was shocking to the extreme. I already knew she had been to the Predator Tree Colony multiple times, but that wasnt all.


    For a moment, I was speechless.


    ...


    Seohye stared at me with slight fear. She had an intense fundamental fear of men. My silence must have scared her. Noticing that, Yeonseo patted Seohyes shoulder.


    Dont be frightened. Its alright. That guys someone wholl start meditating in the middle of a raid. Sometimes he gets crazy focused and goes radio silent like that.


    I was actually silent because of shock rather than being focused, but Yeonseos consoling words and smiling eyes seemed to reassure Seohye.


    ...Youre not mad, right?


    No.


    I wasnt mad. Far from it. I was super happy.


    So basically, you have a special quest.


    And the name of that quest


    Called Find Charles?


    She had a quest called Find Charles! And I had a quest called Find Charles Owner.


    Yes. But theres only about one week left to clear it.


    I see. Where is his owner?


    Hes in the Predator Tree Colony. In a mansion connected to it.


    My quest also had about one week left. We both got the quests at simr times and were tackling it from different ends with different methods.


    Did the former Ahn Seohye also have this quest?


    That, I didnt know. But I had a hunch the former Ahn Seohyethe one before meeting mewas unable toplete this quest.


    Things rted to Ahn Seohye are changing.


    I also told her honestly.


    Actually, I also have a quest.


    I shared the quest contents with her, and her eyes grew wide. She was just as surprised as me. Yeonseo made a fuss next to us.


    Wow. This is amazing.


    Our interests were perfectly aligned.


    Boss. Tell me honestly. Did you help Seohye because you knew this?


    As if.


    No matter how broken my Eye of Perception might be, I couldnt see what quests others had.


    Yeonseo grinned. It wouldve been a bit disappointing if you said yes.


    There seemed to be some kind of weird magic in Yeonseos smile. The darkness I was picking up from Seohye with Eye of Perception brightened a little every time it came in contact with Yeonseos smile.


    Yeonseo gave me a light wink, as if to ask, I did good, right? Seen another way, it also looked like she was explicitly asking for praise.


    Yes, yes. Thanks.


    I just threw her a word of praise in my heart. Yeonseo had asked me this on purpose to show that I didnt help Seohye because I wanted something from her or because there was profit to be had. Her question was meant to console the heart of a child fearful of society and adults.


    After some more chatting, I called Seohye earnestly.


    Seohye.


    Yes?


    Ill speak frankly.


    Sincerely, without lies. I decided to drop all pretenses in front of this girl who was deeply wounded and feared the world.


    Id like to cooperate with you. Theres something I want, and you can also clear your quest through me.


    Simply put


    Were in a you scratch my back, Ill scratch yours position. A win-win trade.


    I didnt think dumping a whole load of goodwill on this child would make her open her heart. And I doubted she would say yes if I skipped directly to ask, Will you go on a raid with me? This was better. I frankly stated that we both had something to gain, so if she was willing, I wanted to work with her.


    But I wont force you.


    The Predator Tree Colony and Find Charles Owner werent originally in my ns. It would be awesome if I could clear them, but it couldnt be helped if I couldnt.


    ...


    I wont ask you to respond right now.


    We were still in the process of building trust, after all.


    Please give me your answer within the quest time limit. Ill respect whatever decision you make.


    * * *


    * * *


    One day passed, and I got a call directly from Seohye. I could feel from the way she spoke that she was really struggling to talk to me, but it was still very encouraging that she personally called me.


    Um


    After a long moment of hesitation, she continued.


    Ive decided to do as you suggested, sir.


    I wasnt particrly displeased by that stiff sir. She had never called anyone Oppa in her life. Sunhwa told me it was because her mouth wasnt used to it, or something like that. Her way of address wasnt that important, and I was more than willing to be considerate of this child.


    Its not that shes intentionally trying to distance me. Its just that this is extremely hard for her.


    The important thing was something else.


    Is it really possible to keep up a party, no, a good rtionship, with the Red Demon?


    There was deep darkness in her heart, a pool so deep my Eye of Perception couldnt see the bottom of it. I was more than willing to cooperate with Seohye, but that didnt mean I would 100% trust her.


    I cantpletely let down my guard around her.


    I helped change her living situation. But that alone wouldnt change everything. What if she started acting like the Red Demon I remembered? What if that was her true nature?


    Then


    I might end up killing her. I couldnt let the tragedies the Red Demons rampage created repeat themselves. We were working together now because our interests aligned, and I was only giving her the consideration she deserved.


    First, the Predator Tree Colony.


    I decided to start by checking out the Predator Tree Colony with her. Once again, we met in front of a fast food restaurant. That alone was major progress. She was willing to meet me, a man, alone.


    Lets eat before we go.


    While we were eating, Choi Sung-gu also arrived. After ordering four hamburgers, he sat down, sweating.


    Oi. Are we really gonna go there? With just this kiddo?


    Her registered age was 18, and her actual age was 19. She was a little too old to be called a kiddo.


    You have a map, too.


    I mean, I dont want to go.


    Predator Tree Colony. A ce with a swarm of Predator Trees.


    Shell be our guide. Shes already been there several times.


    Thats cause she has a special ss. Im fucking scared of Predator Trees, man. We barely killed one, and you really want to go to a ce with more? Cant you just let me off this once, my friend, my boss, my guy?


    Nope. It would be a huge loss to leave a top-ss magician like Choi Sung-gu behind. I was about to tell him as much when I noticed Seohyes eyes growing wide.


    You hunted a Predator Tree?


    Yes, we goddamn did. The two of us nearly burned to death back then.


    I remembered the heat created by the oil and magic mes synergizing, plus the Rot Water and the dposition poison on top of that.


    Seriously, I was scared for my fuckin life, dammit. It was fucking HOT.


    Seohye had a look of disbelief on her face. But I was told a Predator Tree was impossible to hunt at my level.


    Whats your level?


    Because Sung-gu asked so casually, Seohye just blurted it out without thinking.


    34.


    Then, she made a look of oops, which she quickly hid. However, she wasnt so fast that she could escape my Observers Eye.


    Is she not allowed to disclose her level?


    Did her Guardian instruct her to not tell anyone? Or her Streamer?


    Come to think of it


    I couldnt feel her Streamer at all. She was at this level at this age. That was a ridiculous growth speed. In addition, a special barrier was concealing her Guardians name. She was definitely hot topic material, so why? Why hadnt any Intermediate Administrators made a contract with her yet?


    I butted into the conversation, taking advantage of the fact that Sung-gus jaw was on the ground.


    Next time, dont say your level honestly.


    ...


    If she was in that kind of situation, I just had to turn the situation to my advantage. I wasnt saying that I would make use of her, but that I would make use of the situation. I was sure of it. She hadnt reached that level on her own.


    Your level ispletely outside the realm ofmon sense.


    The top Rankers were currently level 30-31. A young girl who hadnt made full use of her barrier yet and hadnt fully participated in any real raids was level 34?


    I took a bite of my hamburger, then continued talking like I was discussing the weather.


    You might have realized it yourself, but youre an Irregr.


    She was no ordinary yer.


    Its possible that someone forcibly adjusted your level.


    To do that, an extremely strong Guardian would have had to incur a huge sacrifice. There were almost zero Guardians who would go that far.


    Or it could also be that your starting level was different from others.


    For example, she might have started at level 30.


    And Im sure your Guardian doesnt want that fact to be revealed.


    ...


    I could see from the expressions shing on her face that she was terrible at lying.


    So my advice is to be careful of what you say from now on.


    ...Yes. I understand.


    Sung-gu shook his head while munching on his third hamburger. This monster of a yer. Jeez. Im tired of it, like seriously. Can you just see from A to Z after hearing a few words? Sometimes, you scare me. Do you even know, bro?


    ...


    I ignored Sung-gus nonsense like water off a ducks back. After our meal, we went to a specific clearing.


    This is where I usually activate the gate.


    Ah.


    It was a childrens yground, a ce with stones, lumps of dirt, and steel structures like monkey bars and swings.


    All those elements are important for barrier magicians.


    That was why Seohye chose a ce like this to activate the gate.


    Did you pick this ce?


    ...


    That looked like a no. That special Guardian must have told her.


    Just who could it be?


    The Red Demons Guardian was never discovered. No matter how favored Seohye was, it was still amazing there was a Guardian out there pouring everything they had for her.


    It would be good if I could find out who it was.


    There werent many Guardians as devoted as Seohyes. That was the kind of Guardian you had to nab, because they would give you blind love and devotion.


    Forget it. Dont answer me.


    I turned my gaze from her to Sung-gu. Youve got your map, yes?


    Yeah. This is my lifeline, so of course.


    The map was marked with the locations and even the spawn times of the Predator Trees.


    Ah. Your crazy must have infected me. To think Id be walking into hell with my own two feet The world is truly strange.


    To my amusement, Sung-gus lighthearted attitude was helping Seohye rx. She was going into a field with two men, she could go in with her heart just a little more at ease. Sung-gus whining was good for something, at least.


    Though that wasnt his intention.


    Seohye picked up a few pebbles. She took out a shovel from her Inventory and piled up a few clods of dirt here and there.


    Red threads.


    She also took out red thread and scattered it in several ces.


    Ill begin now.

 Chapter 124

    Chapter 124


    The red thread floated into the air.


    [The portal of a Barrier Magician is being activated.]


    [The portals name has been designated.]


    A ck portal we could also click appeared. Once I clicked the ck shimmer, a description popped up.


    [Predator Tree Colony]


    A gate to teleport to the Predator Tree Colony.


    Entrance conditions:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    The activator of the gate, and at least level 30.</li><li>


    One who has hunted a Predator Tree before, and at least level 30.</li></ol>


    Only yers who have fulfilled 1) or 2) can enter.


    The description didnt look all that special at a nce, but there was definitely something unique about it, a small detail an inexperienced eye could easily miss.


    This is


    Epassed in the text was a limited to yers only condition, a condition yers really liked.


    Senia.


    And that was because even Intermediate Administrators were restricted from entering this field. That was the System setting itself. So unless you invested a huge amount of CoinsI didnt know how muchor you enlisted the help of an extremely powerful Guardian of the same or higher grade as this setting, even a Streamer couldnte inside.


    I see, its a yers only field.


    Senias wings fluttered. Her face was as t as ever, but there was the slightest trace of panic in her eyes. An amateur reaction.


    Shes be pretty quick on the uptake.


    Both her skill and perceptiveness had increased. She seemed to have figured out what I intended to do, which told me she hade to aplete understanding of my ystyle. I was a yer who would take one situation and suck everything there was to get from it, down to the very marrow. Knowing this, Senia threw out some words thatid the initial groundwork.


    Through my exclusive contract with you, I have offered yer Kim Hyukjin much support.


    Yeah, I know.


    But I wasnt the only one who profited. Senia had also gained a great deal from exclusively streaming me.


    Whyre you bringing this up all of a sudden? You know our rtionship.


    Senias wings trembled again. Her eyes showed that she was very shaken.


    Ahn Seohye hesitantly cut in. Um When should we go inside?


    Hold on one sec.


    Seohye snuck nces at Senia. I was used to that reaction. After all, Senia possessed a beauty that attracted every gaze in the room, regardless of gender.


    But beauty means nothing.


    We were business partners, and as a business partner, her beauty didnt mean much to me. What was the most important thing in business? How much profit you could get from one another, of course.


    I think it would be best if you would temporarily delegate the filming to me.


    Streamers couldnt enter, so wouldnt it be good to let me do the filming?


    Shell probably say she doesnt want that.


    I didnt know why. Even in the days before I regressed, when the world was far more familiar with new culture than now, no one knew why Streamers were so reluctant to concede their filming rights, even for a moment.


    Are you saying you will personally film what happens in the Predator Tree Colony?


    Yeah. Wouldnt that be convenient and good for you, too?


    If I captured the footage for her, she could edit and direct it into new content.


    ...


    Senia was silent for a while. As I expected, Senia, like other Streamers, was loath to transfer filming rights to a yer.


    Only in the Predator Tree Colony.


    But


    Why did they dislike the idea so much? Was it because the footage felt like content they didnt create themselves?


    Think in terms of efficiency, Senia. Dont let your emotions get in the way. You cante in anyway. I can film and you can upload the footage.


    ...


    I had already cracked the whip. Since she was facing something she didnt like, it was now time to dangle the carrot.


    For the sake of our harmonious partnership, I wont even make any requests this time. Think about it. This is what we both want. Im doing volunteer work here, you know?


    Senias wings quivered. For the first time in a while, I was able to read Senias emotions.State: Doubt / Distrust / Happy


    Her emotions were so intense that Eye of Perception could pick them up. Normally, I couldnt see her state.


    Shes doubtful and distrusting, but even amidst those feelings, shes happy.


    This Streamer, she should just be happy if she was happy. How much of a bully did she see me as? I had to wonder if shed lived her whole life being yed for a fool.


    Giving a freebie andying the groundwork would make it easier to take advantage of Seniater at the appropriate moment. I made it sound like I was doing her a favor, but this wasnt a losing deal whatsoever for me. All I had to do was temporarily get the filming rights and just record while ying. Then, Senia would produce new content from the footage and ry it to the Guardians. That was, of course, a good thing for me, too. It was good for me, but what if I could make Senia feel that she owed me?


    Thats the real profit.


    The groundwork was allid out. In the end, I received the filming rights from Senia.


    [The Nameless Observer is observing.]


    [The Merchant of Venice is impressed by your negotiation skills.]


    [The Whispering Devil is having fun.]


    [The Conductor of Sound praises your broad vision.]


    [The White Hunter is impressed.]


    A fullplement of five Guardians rushed to send me messages. To my amusement, the Conductor of Sound praised my broad vision, but the White Hunter was only impressed.


    They dont know what they should be impressed by, but they quickly sent a basic message because the Conductor of Sound praised me.


    From this, I could extrapte another detail about the Guardians disposition.


    The White Hunter isnt that interested in me drawing the big picture or predicting the future.


    It was just a short message, but it told me enough.


    But they dont want to lose to the Conductor of Sound.


    That was why they squeezed into the five slots.


    If I can make good use of this


    Sung-gu shivered. Dude, what kind of nasty thoughts are you cooking up now? Your face is scary. Whyre you smiling all of a sudden?


    I was smiling without realizing it.


    These Guardians who supported Italys top two yers in my former life would probably end up sponsoring me like crazy, and that was a future not far removed from the present.


    * * *


    * * *


    We entered the Predator Tree Colony. Around us was a dense forest. The humidity was extremely high. Considerably cool air full of moisture hit us upon entry.


    Seohye exined, Were in a massive cave.


    It was surprising that such a lush ecosystem had grown inside a cave, but it made sense considering that Predator Trees were fundamentally fond of dark ces. It wasnt weird for this ce to be set as a cave.


    Outside this cave is Charles owner.


    For now, I didnt see any Predator Trees, which was in line with what I saw on my map.


    Ill give you this.


    Seohye passed us each a seed.


    [Predator Tree Seed]


    The seed of a Predator Tree. Will grow into a Predator Tree if the conditions are met.


    If you slot this seed and use it, you can avoid getting attacked by Predator Trees.


    I didnt see anything about that in the description. I guessed there was an additional description visible only to Seohye.


    I took the seed.


    In cases like this, its typically


    It was a little more effective to personally consume the item rather than use it in a slot. I brought the seed to my mouth.


    ...more effective to chew and swallow it.


    <em>Crunch.</em>


    I brought my teeth down hard. The seed was extremely tough, but not so much that I couldnt chew it.


    Fuck! Gross. So disgusting. This seed smells like shit.


    I also used a skill.[Using the special skill Conductors Song.]


    [Conductors Song is in effect.]


    [Curing status abnormalities of party members at a low chance.]


    [Increasing the crit chance by 3%.]


    [Increasing the effect of Predator Tree Seed by 20%.]


    Seohyes eyes widened.


    Oh she mumbled to herself. The Predator Trees have been turnedpletely neutral.


    I wasnt able to hear that notice. The Predator Tree Seeds effect was amplified, but I didnt think it would turn the monsterspletely neutral.


    I looked at Seohyes state.State: Awe / Inspired / Motivated / Slight Fear


    This girl was pretty full of drive.


    Ill guide you, she said, taking the lead.


    Ahn Seohye.


    Was the Ahn Seohye I was seeing right now truly good? Her disposition definitely had just in it, but that endless darkness I saw with Eye of Perception made even me feel an emotion close to fear.


    I have to prepare for the worst.


    I couldntpletely cross out the possibility that Seohye pretended to be innocent and lured us here. As we followed Seohyes lead, I kept my guard up. We asionally ran into groups of Predator Trees, but they really didnt attack us.


    After walking for some time, I saw a light. The smell of the wind changed, going from the musty, damp smell of the cave to fresh air.


    We just need to go that way.


    I kept a close eye on the terrain and the Map of the Predator Tree Colony we obtained as we moved, engraving theyout into my head over and over again. I had to take into ount all the variables and scenarios that might unfold.


    A notice rang out.


    [Leaving the cave.]


    [Entering Tycons Garden.]


    Tycon. That was the name Seohye had told us for Charles owner.


    This huge ce is a garden?


    As expected of someone who could keep a Twin-Headed ck Dog as a pet. To say it another way, this NPCif it was an NPCwas set to be very capable.


    But they lost that Twin-Headed ck Dog.


    It was a little odd. Howe the owner was unable to personally go and find his dog?


    Sung-gu shook his head. A garden? Looks like a regr forest. And then, he shuddered. Ahh. This intense smell of wealth.


    He went on to mumble something about disliking the smell of the middle and upper ss and preferring the smell of ordinary folk. Having rxed a little after leaving the Predator Tree Colony, Sung-gu muttered to himself as he walked with us.


    I saw a mansion in the distance.


    Is that Tycons house?


    Yes. Tycon should be in the 2nd floor parlor. Hes always there.


    Always?


    Yes. Always.


    We walked through the garden. The ce directly connected to the Predator Tree Colony seemed like arge forest, but it was still quite garden-like in appearance. Like an expansive medieval garden, there were white sculptures here and there, a fountain was gushing water in the middle, and pink tulips were blooming all over the garden.


    Other than a few neutral rabbit monsters, I didnt see any particrly dangerous monsters.[Entering Tycons Mansion.]


    We entered the 1st floor. There was red carpet on the ground, and stairs going up to the 2nd floor were visible from the entryway. As soon as we entered, we were greeted by two giant portraits hanging on the wall by the stairs.


    That person is Tycon and next to him is Tycons wife.


    That so?


    Sung-gu stiffened. I gave him a look, and he schooled himself back intoposure, muttering, Eurgh, this intense smell of wealth. The whole house is positively dripping with it.


    The reason why Sung-gu stiffened was simple.


    We dont see the wifes appearance.


    To us, both portraits were of Tycon. But Seohye was seeing a different portrait. We were looking at the same thing, but it looked different to us.[Observing with Observers Eye.]


    I observed the portrait with Observers Eye as I went up the stairs like nothing was wrong.


    Somethings weird.


    Observers Eye sensed something was off. I couldnt say what it was, but I trusted the signal my skill was giving me.


    Its not a simple mansion.


    The owner of an extremely strong monster like the Twin-Headed ck Dog<em>.</em> The Predator Tree Colony. A forest-like garden. A massive mansion. A young girl who might be the Red Demon. A portrait giving off a strange feeling. What were these puzzle pieces telling me?


    We followed Seohye down the 2nd floor hallway and stopped in front of a room.


    <em>Creak</em>


    The door opened with a creak, and the inside of the room became visible to us. Seohye spoke to someone.


    Mr. Tycon. I found a clue rted to Charles.


    There was a red chair in the room. No one was in it.

 Chapter 125

    Chapter 125


    Choi Sung-gu nearly screamed.


    FUCK! IM SCARED! IM FUCKING SCARED!


    Just who the hell was Ahn Seohye talking to? No one was sitting in the red chair she was facing.


    Eurgh.


    Why did he feel a cold wind all of a sudden?


    But the window is closed.


    And yet, he felt a cold wind snake past him. The red chair was giving off a weird light. And then, there was a thud behind him.


    Fuck! Scared me!


    The door had closed on its own.


    Im so fucking scared.


    The things he feared most in the world were ghosts and cockroaches. No matter what he did, those two things were just too terrifying. But he did his utmost not to show his fear. There was no knowing what changes his actions might produce, so he stayed still as a statue, desperately willing his mind into calmness as he stared at Hyukjin.


    He watched Hyukjin take a few steps forward.


    You must be Mr. Tycon?


    Hyukjin bowed towards the chair. Sung-gu was shocked.


    What the hell? Does he see something?


    If he was the only one who couldnt see anything, then that, too, was frightening. Hyukjin continued.


    My name is Kim Hyukjin. I have already met Charles, and I was given a quest from the System to find Charles owner.


    It was utterly silent. Sung-gu didnt hear a single voice. It looked like Hyukjin was talking to the empty air.


    <em>Woosh!</em>


    A light breeze blew through the room. The candle flickering on the desk went out, and a dreary voice rang out.


    [Do you see me?]


    Sung-gu nearly scuttled backwards. He was screaming, Shit! No, we cant see you! in his heart.


    Hyukjin answered calmly, I cannot see you.


    He was invisible, but despite that, Hyukjin knew precisely where Tycon was. He was observing Seohye with Observers Eye, and picked up on everything, from the direction of her gaze, to where she was talking to, to the strength, the pitch, and even the tiny tremor of her voice. Through the action of observation, he reinterpreted his surroundings and pinpointed Tycons location. That resulted in Tycon speaking to him.


    He heard the voice again.


    [I do not trust humans.]


    Those words meant there was a high chance Tycon wasnt human. Hyukjin slowly started to understand the situation.


    This being was someone who didnt trust humans. Someone who couldnt go look for Charles himself. Someone who gave Seohye a quest, but couldnt check the quest Hyukjin was given.


    The voice went on. [As such, I will not show myself. But youve located me precisely.]


    Hyukjin gazed towards a certain spot.


    A strange bloodthirst.


    Tycon wasnt tantly trying to kill him. But the energy he felt was far from weing. Eye of Perception picked up that veiled intent. This mansions master was not very happy to see him and was oozing bloodthirst.


    I know where Charles is.


    The voice sounded bored. [There have already been five humans who have said that.]


    Hyukjin said he found Charles, but Tycon didnt seem very happy to hear it. He nced at Seohye. She was standing still.State: -(Cannot be read due to a special power)


    He could no longer read Seohyes state. Not just her state, but all her information was obscured. Only her basic infoher name and agewere visible. All the information he had been able to see before was now protected.


    In addition, he noticed a red energying from Seohyes eyes. Her aura subtly changed.


    Please dont be my enemy.


    He didnt want to kill someone.


    Please dont be the Red Demon who lured and murdered people.


    He hoped she wouldnt be the Red Demon he remembered. He nced around the room with Observers Eye. He had already ssified Tycon as an enemy. It would be great if that werent true, but acting ording to that assumption was far more favorable for his survival.


    After getting all the information out of me, hell want to kill me.


    He could feel that. It was just his intuition. Hyukjin continued to take in information, never pausing his conversation with Tycon.


    I really did meet the Twin-Headed ck Dog Charles. He had a group of ck Dogs with him. Charles is indeed searching for his owner.


    Charles was located on the 1st floor of the U-Plex Dungeon.


    [Your proof?]


    The bloodthirst suddenly amplified, rushing towards Hyukjin and weighing down on him.


    [Theres nothing as foolish as believing a human without proof. I would rather choose to hate than do such a thing.]


    Hyukjin shrugged. I have proof.


    He took out an item from his Inventory. When he met the Twin-Headed ck Dog Charles, the monster showed his belly and then regurgitated a piece of ck Yaks Lean Meat, giving it to Hyukjin as if it were a gift. Hyukjin put that in his Inventory.[ck Yaks Lean Meat Chewed by Charles]


    He ced the item on the ground. Silence descended on the room. For quite a long time, the room was still. Neither Hyukjin, Sung-gu, Seohye, nor Tycon spoke. The person who broke the long silence was Tycon.


    [...There really are traces of Charles on the meat.]


    Hyukjin heard a tremble in that voice. Tycon was agitated. But that agitation and tremble wasnt from happiness. He was sure of it.


    Hes not the real owner.


    Hyukjin continued. I know his location.


    [And that is?]


    Hyukjin obediently told him.


    The 1st floor of the U-Plex Dungeon.


    Sung-gu was a little surprised. Hyukjin was a yer who went so far as to exploit his Intermediate Administrator Senia for all she was worth, a yer Sung-gu was truly, truly grateful to have met as a friend and a teammate rather than an enemy. Such a yer would give up the location so meekly?


    [The 1st floor of the U-Plex Dungeon. Where is it?]


    It is the name of a dungeon located in Sinchon in the Korean server, Hyukjin responded, paying close attention to Tycons answer. If he was rted to Guardians, he would know about servers. Hyukjin framed his answer to sound out Tycons identity.


    [Server? Sinchon? Which ne is that?]


    Tycon wasnt connected to Guardians. He didnt know about servers.


    But hes not a regr NPC.


    If he were, he would have verified Hyukjin through the quest System and asked to go find Charles. Tycon wasnt an NPC.


    If he wasnt an NPC and not rted to Guardians, then he was most likely


    A monster.


    * * *


    * * *


    It was highly likely he was a monster with extremely high intelligence. But even so, he couldnt leave this ce.


    Its odd that Seohye is standing there quietly.


    Because the invisible Tycon was here, Hyukjin couldnt afford to tantly observe Ahn Seohye. However, his eyes searched and observed her all the same.


    The fact I cant read her


    That was because the Ahn Seohye standing there right now wasnt Ahn Seohye at all.


    That thing


    After observing her for a long time, he was certain of it.


    Is a shell.


    It was like a doll with Ahn Seohyes outer appearance.


    Wheres the real Seohye?


    His eyes couldnt see the real one. He knew what was happening.


    Stealth skill.


    Darongi had Stealth as well. It seemed Seohye had a simr skill.


    But howe?


    Why did she leave a shell and fade out of sight? Without telling him, no less. Was Ahn Seohye truly the Red Demon? Did the current Ahn Seohye have the same character as the future Red Demon? Was he in a trap?


    No.


    That wasnt the answer. Hyukjin was sure of it. He knew he wasnt in a trap, and that conviction was, again, inexplicable. The energy surrounding Ahn Seohye, her appearance, her tiny, minute movements, her breathing, hepiled all of that into a portfolio of information, from which he then based his conclusion and assessment.


    Ahn Seohye isnt dangerous.


    That was what he decided to believe, at least right now. Actually, he couldnt do much other than trust her. After all, Tycon was in front of him.


    Hyukjin extended a map.


    This is a map of the Predator Tree Colony connected to your garden. At the end of the cave is a gate, and you can go through the gate into the Korean server. Inside the Korean server is a ce called Sinchon, and there exists a dungeon called the U-Plex Dungeon. Charles is on the 1st floor of that dungeon.


    He added one more sentence.


    It is structured so that Charles cannote out on his own.


    That was a roundabout way of saying, You have to go there and bring him out yourself. Hyukjin had to confirm. He had to confirm how Tycon would act after getting all the information, as well as how Seohye would act.


    I see.


    A hazy form began to appear on the red chair. It took the shape of a person, the same ck bearded man Hyukjin saw in the portrait on the wall going from the 1st floor to the 2nd.


    Then Ill have to kill you now and go get Charles.


    The entire room suddenly darkened, as if it were enveloped in darkness. Sung-gu lit a fire.


    Hyukjin!


    The magician fired the mes at the door, reacting quickly because he was ready to move just in case.


    The hazy form spoke again.


    You think shoddy magic can deceive me?


    It wasnt shoddy at all. Sung-gus fire opened a hole in the door, and as long as the path was open, Hyukjin could move quickly.[Using the special skill sh Step.]


    From point to point, a 2D line formed between two 1D points.


    Hyukjins body surged forward in a straight line towards the gap in the door, so quick you couldnt see him.


    But Tycon was fast, too.


    Laughable!


    After using sh Step, Hyukjin dashed off with all his strength, and Tycon followed hot on his tail. Tycon had no legs, and he floated in the air as he chased Hyukjin with a huge scythe in his hands.


    <em>Whumpf!</em>


    Tycon swung the scythe.


    Hyukjin ducked and dodged it, feeling the air rush past the crown of his head.


    Hes strong.


    He was indeed qualified to im he was a Twin-Headed ck Dogs owner. However, Hyukjin had already finished figuring this ce out.


    He knew what Tycon was. Their names differed, but they were categorically called Evil Spirit monsters. Of those monsters, Tycon was a Region-Bound Spirit that couldnt escape a specified region.


    The Evil Spirit monster named Tycon shouted, Halt!


    ck rings appeared under Hyukjins feet. He couldnt dodge them and was frozen in ce.[You cannot move.]


    He was hit with restraint magic, but Hyukjin didnt panic.


    Come closer.


    He was well informed about Evil Spirits. They were very difficult foes for mankind, monsters that drilled insidiously into weak points and dark ces. Despite that, they had an obvious weakness.


    Especially if its a Region-Bound Spirit.


    Hyukjin was someone who hunted a Lycanthrope, an impossible foe for his level, in the Tutorial field. He achieved that feat by using his knowledge from the future. He judged that as long as he had knowledge, strategy, and the courage and ability to put those two in practice, it wasnt impossible to hunt Tycon.


    This time as well Ill pull it off.


    As he watched Tycon slowly approach while holding a scythe, Kim Hyukjin grinned.

 Chapter 126

    Chapter 126


    Evil Spirits were monsters that enjoyed harassing humans. They liked to engage in conversations humans saw as pointless, all to annoy humans, to savor their despair. Later on, mankind would call that good-for-nothing curiosity.


    Dont you find it a little odd? I acted like I knew you were going to attack me from the start.


    ...


    Tycon stopped in ce, his good-for-nothing curiosity kicking in. Evil Spirits enjoyed conversation.


    Thats right. You were wary and fearful of me, like a little fawn. From the start.


    I didnt retort, letting him think as he pleased. I needed a little time right now. With that time, I would make an opening.


    Its merely that I didnt trust you, just like you dont trust humans.


    Humans are distrustful creatures. Its not strange that you acted that way. Tycon came closer and closer. And distrustful creatures


    His voice suddenly increased in volume, shouting so loudly it made my ears ring.


    ...should DIE!


    He raised his scythe. I stared directly at its cruel edge.


    Youre not Charles real owner.


    The scythe froze. Tycon fixed me with his eyes. It matters not. Youll die here anyway.


    He lowered his weapon, as if to let me feel the fear of impending death. Of course, I wasnt scared in the least.


    After all, I continued, it makes no sense that a higher being capable enough to have such a huge mansion is unable to find a single dog located on the 1st floor of a Korean server dungeon for no particr reason.


    He gave Seohye a quest to find Charles.


    You gave Ahn Seohye a quest, but couldnt give me one. The quest you gave her mustve been a fake, which means youre a being whocks the authority to give out legitimate quests.


    That wasnt all.


    Youre set so that you cannot leave this ce.


    Among the countless Evil Spirits out there, Tycon was a Region-Bound Spirit tied to this mansion.


    Which is why you lured in a girl who harbors deep darkness within her heart.


    The darkness within Seohyes heart was like an open door for this Evil Spirit. I knew Tycon would have wanted to make use of her.


    But I have a real quest asking me to find Charles owner, you see.


    Which meant, the real owner of Charles was somewhere around here.


    You pretended to be looking for Charles.


    Tycon knew about Charles as well. He pretended to be looking for the dog. Why? Because there was something that could move the Evil Spirit. Because there was a lingering grievance here.


    Who could the real owner of Charles be, I wonder?


    It wasnt Tycon.


    Im guessing this mansion has a real master somewhere. One who has be much weaker, or who has already perished.


    You speak too much.


    Before I knew it, Tycon was right in front of me. He raised his scythe.


    Where could that real owner be?


    If the original owner were really here, would this Evil Spirit be able to run amok? The answer was a resounding no.


    You want to hide that real owner. Why? Because you fear them.


    And so,


    You swapped the portraits with your likeness.


    Tycon changed the portraits, both of them, to hide the real owners face. And for some reason, Seohye was able to see the true appearance of those portraits.


    But you know, if that owner were still alive, you wouldnt have been able to strut around like this.


    Charles owner was dead. At this point in time, I was sure of it. If they were alive, an Evil Spirit would have never been able to step foot within this mansion.


    You swapped out the portraits because you were scared to see their face even though theyre already dead.


    Tycon began to turn dark red, his scythe glowing with the same ominous . His voice echoed out grimly.


    [You will find no peace, even in death.]


    He raised his scythe again and made a wide swing towards me.


    Now, when hes making a wide swing.


    This was the right timing. The restraint he cast on me was dispelled from the beginning. My magic resistance was far higher than he thought.[Using the special skill sh Step.]


    I moved towards the portraits. He wouldnt be able to get close to them, and even if he could, his movements and strength would be dulled. I knew that because all he could do was cover the portraits, not destroy them.


    You weasely little rat.


    I knew the weaknesses of Evil Spirit monsters, of Region-Bound Spirits specifically. It was recorded in the list of monster traits Ipiled.


    A <em>Region-Bound Spirit is a monster that wanders about, unable to leave the ce it is bound to for some reason. There is always something that ties it down.</em>


    It was highly likely that something was a thing the Evil Spirit feared or was attached to.


    <em>If that something is destroyed, the Region-Bound Spirit will rapidly lose strength.</em>


    Knowing that, I drew my dagger, preparing to use the new innate ability I got through Isabels innate authority, the fusion of Sword Path Tracing and Excellent Strike.


    I was a little too far to destroy the somethingpletely with a mere dagger throw, but that was fine. Just like how Tycon had a grievance, I had something called will. I couldnt do the Will Incantation, but I could achieve a focus close to it.


    Sword Path Tracing is an authority that creates paths.


    Make a path with Sword Path Tracing, and then


    The will imbued in Excellent Strike shall pierce the portrait.


    Unfortunately, it wasnt a Will Incantation. I couldnt freely bring forth that power. But I had experienced the Will Incantation before and thus had a taste of how it worked, what I had to do to bring forth focus and power. It was only a taste, but that was enough.


    A path be made, the enemy be destroyed by my will.


    Tracing.


    Will.


    Pration.


    Destruction.


    I imbued the dagger with those four intents. It might not be the Will Incantation, but I knew this was part of the process to one day produce aplete Will Incantation. I believed it. I believed that a Sword of Insight slightly closer to perfection would materialize.


    <em>Whumpf!</em>


    Tycon, who had closed in on me in no time, swung his weapon.


    Die! Die! Die! Die!


    But he had be markedly slower. He was definitely under the influence of the portrait. I dodged him without much difficulty. I could see the trajectory of his swings. He was far slower and far weaker than before.


    [Using the innate ability Sword of Insight.]


    [The innate ability Eye of Perception is in effect.]


    Eye of Perception.


    My eye of intuition.


    Insight and intuition converged on one point, towards which I hurled the small dagger in my hand.


    I heard a shriek.


    NOO!


    The dagger flew out like an arrow.


    This is Sword of Insight.


    Sword Path Tracing applied to all sword-type items. I saw the precise trajectory of the dagger I threw. It shot forward towards an exact point as ifpelled by an inexplicable force, humming with an energy far greater than a normal throw.


    Isabels innate authority had given me a great weapon.


    My hand was still numb. A tingling feeling lingered.


    That feeling just now.


    The trajectory of that dagger, which hurtled forward with my will towards the portraits weakest point that I had instantly ascertained, gave me a rush of exhration.


    Feels great.


    That exhration was close to ecstasy to me. I merely used a skill, but it felt like I unleashed an attack that fell within the realm of a true dagger technique.


    <em>Plunge!</em>


    The glowing blue dagger plunged into the portrait.


    GAAAAHHHH!


    Tycon dropped his scythe. His face began to melt.


    You underestimated Ahn Seohye.


    He only saw the darkness within her. He only tried to make use of that darkness. He failed to recognize her Red Demon talent.


    Ahn Seohye fundamentally doesnt trust men.


    Her circumstances and environment made it so. I had no intention of faulting her for it. I would have been the same had it been me.


    But she listened obediently to you, came looking for you multiple times, and even got a quest from you? And she brought other men all the way here? Dont you think somethings weird about that?


    Tycons face stopped melting. The dagger embedded in the portrait was melted down as well. I wasnt able topletely destroy the portrait.


    Such a person specifically pointed it out to us. That theres a womans portrait here.


    In our eyes, it wasnt visible at all.


    She gave us a hint.


    It was possible that Seohye already knew Tycon was a fake, or that she had been nning a barrier in advance for her future protection. She turned this entire mansion into her domain. She had a ss that could achieve such a feat, given sufficient time.


    Her ss is one that cannot hunt normally, but it shines when a barrier is created after a long period of preparation.


    That was what a Barrier Magician was. That was the Red Demons ability.


    A person with such a ss has already been here multiple times.


    Tycon struggled to his feet, his face mostly melted.


    You dont need to get up.


    The next instant, thousands of red lines wrapped around Tycons body, like a moth caught in a spiders web.


    A Barrier Magician wielding red thread has already designated you as her prey.


    The future Red Demon, the huntress who lured her prey and mercilessly finished them off, began to walk up from the 1st floor.


    * * *


    * * *


    Her eyes glowing red, Ahn Seohye asked me a question.


    Since when have you known?


    Hard to say.


    There hadnt been a specific moment.


    Just along the way.


    I couldnt really exin it any more than that. If I were to try, the only thing I could say was that this was the domain of talent. The talent to see more than others when looking at the same things, to hear more than others when hearing the same things. I saw the path, the situation, and analyzed it.


    Seohyes eyes glowed crimson red.


    ...


    She looked exactly like the Red Demon I had seen in videos.


    <em>When hunting her prey, when ughtering humans, the Red Demons eyes ominously grow red.</em>


    It was the same right now. The red thread wrapped around Tycon began to constrict.


    GAAAHHHH!


    He screamed. For this very moment, Ahn Seohye had likely invested a lot of time. It was apletely different concept from a regr raid. Her red threads cut Tycons body into little pieces.


    [Evil Spirit - Tycon has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [Rapundels Remains 1/2 acquired.]


    I have a special eye.


    ...I am aware.


    I saw the darkness dwelling within you with that eye. Mm. Its a bit weird to call it darkness, but in any case, there was something ck in your heart.


    ...


    So I judged it would be very easy for you toe in contact with an Evil Spirit monster.


    I inferred this scenario based on many other things.


    And I judged that you wanted to hunt that Evil Spirit.


    ...


    After a long moment of silence, Seohye finally spoke.


    Youre amazing.


    She wasnt being sarcastic. Seohye was sincerely amazed right now.


    Its kind of fascinating.


    What is?


    I feel that its okay to trust you.


    I shrugged. You dont have to. All thats needed is that when a situation arises where we need to lend each other our strength like today, we use each other.


    A rtionship of you-use-me, I-use-you. In my estimation, that was the perfect rtionship to have with the future Red Demon. Building trust was a task forter. Some day, when her heart opened a little more, it would be great if she could speak to me more casually instead of using stiff honorifics like sir.


    Sung-gu inched towards me, very carefully, very slowly. He opened his mouth uneasily.


    Hey. Buddy. Hyukjin.


    He pretty much clung to me, his body shivering all over.


    What <em>is </em>that? Sung-gu squeezed me tightly. The portrait is crying! FUCK!


    Tears of blood were dripping from the portraits eyes.

 Chapter 127

    Chapter 127


    I looked up to find that the portrait really was crying. The woman within the portrait was weeping red tears.


    Its clickable.


    Unlike earlier, it was now interactable.


    [Rapundels Portrait]


    A portrait imbued with the grievance of Charles owner. Has been activated by a special condition. An item that can prove Charles survival is necessary. Burn the item with magic-created fire to alleviate Rapundels Grievance.


    I had already shown the item that could prove Charles survival. To Tycon, that is. Darongi had collected it again.


    Darong?


    A [!] appeared above Darongis head. He shook his head. This little squirrel, he was setting his sights on not just fried chicken, but ck Yak meat now.


    Ill give you a new one. Not one thats been regurgitated.


    Darongi nodded. Apparently, that was what hed wanted from the start. I gave him some new ck Yaks Lean Meat, and he gave me the one that was eaten by Charles.


    Sung-gu.


    Yeah? What?


    Not getting off me?


    Im scared, bro.


    Should I help you get off?


    Sung-gu shivered all over. He took one step back, still clutching the hem of my clothes with one finger. Maybe I needed to tell him that people were scarier than ghosts.


    Burn this.


    He-Here?


    No. In front of the portrait.


    I-I-I need to go over there?


    Sung-gu inched backwards, waving his hands. Thankfully, the direction he backed off in was towards the portrait. Ultimately, Sung-gu knew it was inevitable. It was time for him to act.


    Y-Youlle with me, right?


    Going with him was no difficult matter. I went up to the portrait with Sung-gu. Red tears were still dripping from it.


    Fuck, fuck, fuck Im not scared, Im not scared.


    Muttering to himself, Sung-gu obediently did what I asked him to do.


    <em>Fwoosh!</em>


    mes surged up, and the smell of burning meat filled the mansion. I heard a notice.[Rapundels Grievance has confirmed Charles survival.]


    The flow of blood tears stopped.[Rapundels Grievance remembers Charles.]


    A dreary wind blew past us. The portrait Id thrown the dagger into fell to the ground with a thud.


    <em>Shaaaa!</em>


    The frame disappeared along with the wind.


    The building is aging.


    I didnt know if that was the best way to put it, but it really was aging visibly. Nothing was happening to us, but the mansion around us was quickly degrading into ruins.


    [Rapundels Grievance wees the guests.]


    [Rapundels Grievance is happy.]


    [Rapundels Grievance has a request.]


    I was given a quest.


    [Deliver Rapundels Remains to Charles!]


    Deliver Rapundels Remains to Charles. A part of the remains is behind Rapundels portrait.


    Darong.


    He scampered over and brought over a bone from behind the portrait. It was the same item Id gotten after Tycon was killed.


    [Rapundels Remains 2/2]


    The remains of Charles owner, Rapundel. Its said that Rapundel cried day and night, longing for thepanion she lost. Rapundels Remains are suffused with heartfelt longing towards Charles.


    Well done.


    Acorns and fried chicken were emergency weapons, so I opted to give him a banana instead. Darongi devoured it with relish like the gluttonous squirrel he was.


    Sung-gu had raced back to my side again, shivering.


    Fuck. Bro, Im scared as fuck. Why did the building suddenly be so old?


    I looked around. It looked like Tycons mansion had weathered three hundred years in an instant. Everything was old and falling apart.


    Everythings aged all of a sudden.


    Three hundred years. Why did that particr numbere to mind? Because that was what Observers Eye told me.


    `Three hundred years.


    It wasnt an ordinary number.


    If three hundred years have passed in this field


    That meant something else.


    [Rapundels Grievance wishes to give you a special gift.]


    [Rapundels Grievance asks if you have a Map of the Predator Tree Colony.]


    I took it out, saying, I have one.[Map of the Predator Tree Colony, Addended acquired]


    The map in my hand shed yellow. Some kind of power was taking effect on it. When I examined it, there was a new description.


    [Map of the Predator Tree Colony, Addended]


    A Predator Tree Colony is a forest with many Predator Trees. Rapundels father made a Predator Tree Colony for his daughter because Predator Tree Seeds were known to be effective against Red Flower Tears. An artificially created Predator Tree Colony has a lifespan of three hundred years at most. The Predator Trees are unable to maintain the ecosystem for longer than that and perish.


    Some of this was familiar to me. Ten years in the future, it was basicallymon knowledge that Predator Trees had a lifespan of about three hundred years. However, the rest was new to me.


    Does this mean only artificially cultivated Predator Trees have a lifespan of three hundred years?


    No one had known that in the past. Didnt that mean that all the Predator Trees mankind had met in the past were Predator Trees that someone had artificially cultivated?


    Ive also never heard about the seeds having an effect on Red Flower Tears.


    In the past, this was said about Red Flower Tears:


    <em>Red Flower Tears can be called one of the disasters mankind suffered with theing of the new culture era.</em>


    It was the name of a disease where the afflicted would weep tears of blood, like the woman within the portrait, Rapundel, had shown earlier. Eventually, the afflicted would wither and die. It was a rare disease, but once you caught it, there was no cure and you would die within three years. Korea also had at least thirty patients with the disease.


    So Predator Tree Seeds have that kind of effect, huh.


    This revtion posed yet another question we had to consider.


    Who are the people cultivating the Predator Trees?


    Were they NPCs? If they were NPCs, it was likely they would have told yers about the effect of Predator Tree Seeds, but mankind was totally in the dark about it. That meant this information wasnt given out. Whoever it was, they werent NPCs, but they were strong enough to artificially make Predator Tree Colonies.


    There really is a world I didnt know.


    That made me question something else.


    Then did the top yers who lived in the world of Rankers in the past know this?


    That much I couldnt infer. But I did know that I gained this kind of information as early as the beginner period. Did the super high level Rankers, the masters who passed the mid-game that was level 40-70, really not know this?


    Ill probably find outter on.


    This feeling of uncovering mysteries, of dipping my toes into a world I hadnt even known about, and this situation, where I was actively creating those feelings, suffused me with a special emotion.


    For now, lets focus on the now.


    The ecosystem of the Predator Tree Colony would copse within three hundred years. If what I observed with Observers Eye was correct, about three hundred years had passed here. We were unchanged, but the field had aged three centuries.


    Which means


    The Predator Trees were near death. You could say they were in critical condition.


    Were going to go hunt Predator Trees now.


    Normally, it was almost impossible to hunt Predator Trees en masse. But what if the Predator Trees were on their deathbed? If they werepletely unable to resist? I knew a yer in the past who hunted a Predator Tree Colony in such a statethe Wargod Salvatore, the yer contracted with Italys representative Guardian, the Conductor of Sound. It was said that Salvatore stumbled upon a Predator Tree Colony near the end of its lifespan and reaped a huge profit from it.


    Im taking a simr route to the Wargod Salvatore.


    Such a scenario didnt originally exist in the Korean server, but my actions created it.


    Lets go.


    We left to hunt the Predator Trees.


    * * *


    * * *


    Ahn Seohye spoke hesitantly.


    So this is what you meant.


    Yeah.


    The Predator Trees in front of us were already sick and old. They couldnt even move anymore and were just barely holding on. Despite that, their names were still red and showed up as ? marks.


    If you give me a little time, I will make a barrier.


    What kind of barrier?


    A Frenzy Hunting Barrier.


    The barrier she named was the same one the Red Demon used to indiscriminately ughter 600 people in the heart of downtown Seoul. Not much was known about the Red Demons ability, but the Red Demon herself revealed the skill name. As a result, the Frenzy Hunting Barrier was attributed as the Red Demons gship ability.


    It took quite a while to set up, at least 30 minutes of work. Seohyes face dripped with sweat.


    She enjoys the act of making barriers itself.


    She was, so to speak, a genius who enjoyed her work. She looked at the map while sticking red thread everywhere, so engrossed she even forgot we were there. She also asionally uttered something like magic incantations and did something with her mana.[A Frenzy Hunting Barrier has beenpleted.]


    A littleter, the notices started streaming in.


    [Predator Tree has been killed.]


    [Predator Tree has been killed.]


    [Predator Tree has been killed.]


    [Predator Tree has been killed.]


    Notice after notice came in.


    Darongi. If you go pick up a lot of items, Ill give you fried chicken.


    At those words, Darongi scampered busily all over the map.


    [Level increased.]


    [Current level: 32]


    My level went up in the 30-40 period that was so grueling to level up in. I got to level 32 even without resorting to the special strat that used Noahs Helm.


    Wow


    [All Predator Trees of the Predator Tree Colony have been killed.]


    [A special condition has been fulfilled.]


    [The Clear Crystal is being generated.]


    We didnt juste into Seohyes gate; we actually satisfied the conditions to clear it. This went beyond my expectations.


    Great.


    We destroyed the Clear Crystal.


    [The Predator Tree Colony has been destroyed.]


    [You cleared the Predator Tree Colony perfectly.]


    [Superior Predator Tree Seed Bundle acquired as a clear reward.]


    I got an item with a whopping 20 Superior Predator Tree Seeds in it. Both Sung-gu and Seohye also got the bundle, so we obtained 60 seeds total as a reward for the clear.


    Even the chatterbox Sung-gu seemed at a loss for words. He stared at Seohye with wide eyes. Youre incredible. Ive never seen anything like this.


    ...


    After finishing the raid, Seohye returned to her usual self. Her bodynguage made it very apparent that she was scared of Sung-gu. She was still deeply distrustful of men.


    A long moment of silence stretched out. Seohye opened her mouth with difficulty.


    I was the surprised one. Her gaze moved towards me. Just who are you, Oppa?


    My Eye of Perception picked it up precisely. As she asked the question, Seohyes eyes became red again. At the very least, they didnt look human.


    The Red Demons eyes gleamed ominously.

 Chapter 128

    Chapter 128


    Just who are you, Oppa?


    Seohye used the word oppa for the first time. I didnt attach much significance to the word. Age-wise, I was indeed her oppa, and the title itself wasnt anything weird.


    Im just an ordinary person.


    Ordinary?


    Seohyes red eyes wavered.


    Therell be trouble if you say youre ordinary again.


    ...


    I examined Seohyes eyes carefully.


    Red eyes.


    It was a characteristic of the former Red Demon, the Red-Eyed Killer. From the stiffness of her body and her flow of mana right now, it didnt look like she was nning on attacking me. Her eyes were just red.


    But


    Something about those eyes bothered me.


    Seohye.


    Yes?


    I know that barrier magic isnt the only ability you have.


    Actually, I didnt know. I just threw out a wild guess. If Seohye denied it, it meant she didnt have one, and if she remained silent, my guess was true.


    ...


    Seohye didnt respond. I had sprung the words so suddenly on her that she couldnt evene up with a proper denial.


    About those red eyes


    Red eyes?


    If you have a mirror, take a look at yourself.


    A considerable number of female yers carried a mirror with them. That applied even now, ten years in the past. I didnt get it. In any case, Seohye was in herte teens, an age at which one was sensitive about ones appearance, and she had a mirror with her.


    Kyaa!


    Seohye screamed involuntarily upon seeing her face in the mirror. Apparently, she had been unaware this entire time that her eyes were turning red.


    I dont know what ability youre using when your eyes turn red, I said. I only know that the mana flow of your eyes is weird.


    Seohye seemed very shaken by her red eyes.


    Wh-Wh-What <em>is </em>this?


    Youre alright. Youre alright.


    The killer I knew from the future, the Red Demon, showed a very fragile part of herself. As expected of an oppa with a little sister who had a tofu mentality, I consoled Seohye quite adeptly.


    In any case, those red eyes. The mana flow is suspicious.


    Sung-gu cut in as if frustrated. Cmon man. You gotta exin in concrete terms <em>how</em> its suspicious. You cant just say its suspicious and call it quits. Though, yeah, of course those red eyes are super sus.


    I thought for a bit. Almost like its opening its mouth to swallow you alive?


    Observers Eye saw Seohyes muscles stiffen for the slightest moment. That meant she had also sensed something weird, whether that was instinctive or something else.


    Youve already felt something like that before, right?


    ... After a long moment of hesitation, Seohye said, I feel it often.


    When?


    Im not sure. When Im dreaming, I feel it. When no ones there, it feels like someones watching me. No, theyre ring at me.


    I paid close attention to her eyes. They had returned to normal.


    Be wary of your eyes.


    That was all the advice I could give at this point in time.


    Red eyes.


    There was something more to them. They harbored some kind of secret. I had the feeling there would be some kind of incident rted to those eyes in the near future.


    Looks like our rtionship wont end here.


    * * *


    * * *


    Sung-gu followed Hyukjin closely.


    Still, I didnt think that girl would say the word oppa.


    ...


    The two of them were heading to the U-Plex Dungeon. Choi Sung-gu chattered tirelessly. She must have warmed up to you a lot.


    ...


    But seriously man, whats your secret? Cheon Soojis after you. Yeonseos after you. Whyre all thedies so impatient to get a piece of you?


    ...


    Hyukjin didnt bother answering. Even if he didnt, Sung-gu could keep up a conversation all by himself.


    Im jealous man, Im jealous. Im really fuckin jelly.


    ..


    They neared the U-Plex Dungeon. At the entrance were wardens dispatched by the yers Association. A man wearing sunsses stopped them.


    As Im sure you know, this is the U-Plex Dungeon, a brutally difficult dungeon. Please turn back.


    After Hyukjins party, several yers and parties challenged the dungeon, but not a single one of them made it out. As a result, this ce became a prohibited area, and most yers were forbidden from entering.


    Entry is temporarily restricted to yers who have gotten talent te readings of thirty. This is a measure for your safety, so we ask that you cooperate.


    The man acted by the manual. He didnt do anything wrong, and Hyukjin didnt quarrel.


    Sung-gu. Youve got thirty talent tes.


    Huh? Huh? Riiiight, I forgot.


    Sung-gu fumbled for a moment like a blockhead before producing the yer Card the yers Association had issued him. In addition to his personal details, it indicated how many talent tes he had.


    Thirty talent tes. That number meant a great deal in this world where new culture was quickly spreading. It meant you had the foundation to be a new leader, a new <em>somebody.</em>


    I apologize for not recognizing you.


    Not at all, I also forgot I had thirty.


    Sung-gu shrugged. Though it might have looked like modesty to the men guarding the dungeon, Sung-gu was sincere.


    A talent te reader that said Hyukjin had [No Talent] means nothing.


    He regarded the reliability of such a faulty device as 0, so he had erased the fact that he had thirty talent tes from his mind altogether. How urate could a talent te exam that said Hyukjin had 0 tes possibly be?


    We can go in together, right?


    You may. However, both of you must sign an agreement stating that the yers Association holds no liability.


    After signing, Hyukjin and Sung-gu walked up to the dungeon.[Enter the U-Plex Dungeon?]


    They entered.[You have entered the U-Plex Dungeon 1st Floor.]


    The dungeon hadnt changed.


    But bro, do we have to clear this ce again?


    No. Its not clearable.


    Eh? Why not?


    Noah will remember us.


    After digesting that for a moment, Sung-gus eyes grew wide.


    He wont be reset?


    Hell definitely remember us.


    The 1st, 2nd, and even the 3rd floor were doable, but there was no way to escape Noah on the 4th floor.


    Then what do we do? Fight him?


    Theres no doubt we would die if we did.


    Then? Whyd you bring me here? Y-Youre not going to offer me as a sacrifice, right?


    Sung-gu stealthily reached for Hyukjins hand. Hyukjin pped his hand away extremely heartlessly.


    Grab my hand, and Ill kill you.


    Hik! Sung-gu trembled from head to toe.


    As I told you before, same procedure asst time. The Big ck Dogs will appear on the 1st floor.


    They would proceed the same way asst time. Only this time, Hyukjin was here to deliver Rapundels Remains to Charles.


    <em>Woof! Woof! Woof!</em>


    They began to hear the sound of barking.


    The Big ck Dogs probably wont remember us.


    An NPC of Noahs level would remember them, but not these monsters. They had to slowly build up intimacy using the same method asst time.


    Hyukjin saw the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog in front of him. Once the Big ck Dogs tails were moving in slow figure eights, he slowly, unhurriedly moved to the boss. The drooling Twin-Headed Big ck Dog was still impossible to hunt at his current level.


    Hyukjin stopped calmly in front of the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog without the slightest trace of intimidation. Then, he extended an item.


    Rapundels Remains.


    The Twin-Headed Big ck Dog sniffed the item in Hyukjins hands for a long time, then sat on his haunches.


    <em>AWOOOOOOOO!</em>


    He began to howl.


    At his howl, the Big ck Dogs tearing voraciously into the ck Yaks Lean Meat began to howl as well.


    <em>AWOOOOOOO!</em>


    <em>AWOOOOOOO!</em>


    The sound of howling filled the floor. Sung-gu trembled.


    Fuck. Why the hell is it so scary?


    To Sung-gu, the Big ck Dogs howls made terror resonate in his very bones. He was under the influence of the fear effect created by high-level monsters.


    Hyukjin just stood there quietly, gazing at the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog.


    This howl is strange.


    Sung-gu was feeling a fear effect right now, but Hyukjin was different.


    My chest aches.


    What was this?


    This feeling is


    Hyukjin turned his meditative gaze inward, reading his own feelings. He focused on the howl and on the Big ck Dogs. Certain words began to drift to the surface of his consciousness.


    Govern thy emotions with eyes of meditation.


    Read all things with a tranquil heart.


    And gaze down upon all phenomena with peaceful eyes.


    He didnt hear any other words. Something wascking. Hyukjin had a hunch.


    Incantation territory.


    This was incantation territory. He was beginning to harness a special authority that could enhance his power of observation even more. Not long afterwards, Hyukjin had a realization.


    What Im doing right now


    To his surprise, it wasnt just simple observation, but empathizing.


    Sung-gu saw tears drip from Hyukjins eyes.


    Whats with him?


    Sung-gu almost wanted to say, Its because youre like this that youre scary, man! but he held back. Why was Hyukjin crying? Did he go mad all of a sudden? Sung-gu was extremely confused, but he internally pped himself back to stillness.


    Hyukjin put out a hand.


    I see. Youre very sad.


    He met eyes with the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog. Tears were running out of the boss monsters four eyes.


    [The Shepherd Boy is very impressed by your empathy.]


    [The Shepherd Boy expresses utmost goodwill towards you.]


    The Twin-Headed Big ck Dog began to lick Hyukjins hand.


    It doesnt hurt at all.


    This high-level monsters saliva was a strong acid. Last time, when Hyukjins head was in the Twin-Headed Big ck Dogs mouth, the saliva was excruciating. But now, it didnt hurt at all.


    The licking didnt harm his hand at all, but the Twin-Headed Big ck Dogs emotions were ryed to Hyukjin in full.


    Heartbreaking pain.


    It felt like he was deeply connected to the monsters emotions. This phenomenon was one he knew about.


    There was an article about it on ypedia.


    <em>Tamers of a high level are not only able to easily read monsters emotions, but are able to feel those emotions. In other words, the more in-tune a yer is with a monsters emotions, the more talent they have as a tamer.</em>


    He heard notices.


    [Find Charles Owner! has been cleared.]


    [The clear has been recognized as a peerlessly perfect clear.]


    While those notices were going off, Darongi mbered onto one of the Twin-Headed Big ck Dogs heads and patted it with an air of self-importance. The boss other head turned to stare at Darongi, who gave another pat, as if to encourage the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog to cheer up.


    Hyukjin was able to read the Twin-Headed Big ck Dogs emotions through Eye of Perception.


    Hes actually getting significantlyforted?


    As ridiculous as it was, the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog was greatly consoled by Darongi.[Distributing the rewards for Find Charles Owner!]


    This was a quest created by linking the First Pioneer title effect with a first discovery of a hidden piece. It would give out far greater rewards than a regr quest.[Title Hundred Dog Master acquired.]


    Hyukjin got a new title, Hundred Dog Master.

 Chapter 129

    Chapter 129


    [Title Hundred Dog Master acquired.]


    I got a new title. It was one I knew, but before I could even check it, another notice came right on its heels.[The Shepherd Boy proposes a sh quest.]


    The representative Guardian of Scond proposed a sh quest in the Korean server, an action that naturally demanded significant cost, since it was a direct System interference.


    A sh quest when Im not even a tamer?


    The Shepherd Boy was famous for being a Guardian who exclusively sponsored tamers, so I was surprised to see he was getting personally involved with an Observer like me.[A note has arrived.]


    The quest reached me in the form of a note. I immediately opened it and checked the contents.


    [Note from the Shepherd Boy]


    The Shepherd Boy wishes to grant you a quest. The Shepherd Boy is currently looking for Red Eyes. The Shepherd Boy is certain that the Red Eyes are somewhere in the Korean server. Find the Red Eyes.


    Reward:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    Hundred Dog Master title upgrade.</li><li>


    5,000 Coins</li><li>


    - (Currently hidden. Will be automatically visible upon quest clear.)</li></ol>


    What the heck?


    I already knew about Red Eyes. The Barrier Magician who possessed Red Eyes, the young woman who might be the Red Demon in the future, was currently the just 19-year-old Barrier Magician Ahn Seohye. She definitely had red eyes.


    Why is a Guardian looking for Red Eyes?


    And why a Guardian primarily active in the Scond server? Why did the Shepherd Boy give me a quest to look for the Red Eyes Ahn Seohye possessed?[ept the quest?]


    For now, I epted it. Upon doing so, the Shepherd Boy sent me another notice.


    [The Shepherd Boy respects your choice.]


    [The Shepherd Boy grants you a favor.]


    [The Shepherd Boys favor has temporarily added a special effect to the title effects of Hundred Dog Master.]


    Just then, Sung-gu asked, Hyukjin. The esctor going to the 2nd floor did get activated, but were not gonna go up, right?


    Of course we werent. I had absolutely zero intent to clear this ce legitimately.


    Were gonna leave right away.


    Using this?


    Sung-gu took out his Beginner Free Pass Scroll, the reward we obtained when clearing the U-Plex Dungeonst time. If we used this, we could leave the dungeon.


    Yeah. That was my n, at first.


    The Free Pass was, as the name suggested, a scroll that would let us pass the dungeon. But passing was not clearing. It was actually closer to fleeing.


    Sung-gu. Do you trust me?


    Yeah, of course.


    Then would you trust me and give me your Beginner Free Pass Scroll?


    ... Sung-gu made an unhappy expression. But I only have one?


    I know.


    Sung-gu blinked at me. I had long since imagined his possible responses.


    Ill respect whatever decision you make.


    In the current situation, the Beginner Free Pass Scroll was like Sung-gus lifeline. Without it, he would be stuck in the U-Plex Dungeon. The only way to leave this dungeon was this scroll. It would never happen and I didnt intend on doing so, but if I were to take this item and run away, Sung-gu would be left behind, and before long, would die.


    Ah, fuck it.


    Surprisingly, Sung-gu didnt deliberate for long.


    Here, take it.


    He handed his Beginner Free Pass to me despite any doubt or regret such an action might bring. He didnt ask me much, and I didnt give him any useless exnations, either.


    Thanks for trusting me.


    Why so sentimental all of a sudden? Youre scaring me. You and I both know youre not that warmhearted. Youre not leaving me behind and booking it, right?


    Of course not.


    I was talking to Sung-gu right now, but ultimately, this conversation was mostly an act for the Guardians. In this ce of life and death, Sung-gu gave me his one and only lifeline without asking for anypensation or guarantee in return.


    There are definitely Guardians out there who go crazy for emotions like trust and friendship.


    I was creating content to suit their tastes. Meeting the customers needs was one of a content creators duties, was it not? I would give them enjoyment, and they could give me physical rewards through the System in return.


    [The Conductor of Sound is impressed by theradery.]


    [The White Hunter is impressed by the trust and faith.]


    Luckily, the two of them were apparently in Senias channel.


    [The Conductor of Sound gives you 1,000 Coins.]


    [The White Hunter gives you 1,500 Coins.]


    A simple act snagged me 2,500 Coins from the Guardians. Judging by the trembling of Senias half-transparent wings, a hefty shower of sponsorships was likely dumped on her as well, as my exclusive contract Streamer.


    Cant end it here, can we?


    Guardians had to be wrung for all they were worth. The reason I was choosing to enhance here, out of all ces, was to give them a good show of my enhancement.


    Senia. Im going to start the enhancement now.


    ...Enhancement? Here?


    Senia looked around. A few Big ck Dogs were sleeping, and the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog was standing next to me. To be perfectly honest, it would be a lie to say this ce waspletely safe. Even people could turn on a dime, but monsters? No matter how amiable we were now, you never knew when they would be enemies.


    You want to say the location isnt appropriate, right?


    Yes. As I said before, when ites to enhancing, location and timing are very important factors.


    Senia was saying typical stuff she should naturally say as an Intermediate Administrator. And she wasnt wrong. <em>If </em>this were a typical situation.


    Scan my title. The Hundred Dog Master one.


    [Hundred Dog Master]


    The master of a hundred dogs.


    Inducesplete submission of all pure dog monsters under level 30.


    Grants extreme intimacy with all pure dog monsters between level 30-40.


    Grants weak intimacy with all pure dog monsters between level 40-50.<ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    Shepherd Boys favor: Will not be attacked by Big ck Dog monsters within the U-Plex Dungeon.</li></ul>


    I intentionally picked this moment to share the title effects and gave a short exnation to supplement.


    I wont be attacked here by the Big ck Dogs. Also, theyre feeling a great deal of intimacy towards me.


    Even the boss monster Twin-Headed Big ck Dog currently saw me as a true friend, or a benefactor who helped him find his owners whereabouts.


    Big ck Dogs are pack monsters. Theyre also feeling a lot of goodwill towards Sung-gu, a member of my group.


    This was something I confirmed with Eye of Perception. We wouldnt be attacked by the Big ck Dogs. Our safety was guaranteed, meaning this was the perfect timing for the enhancement content many Guardians were sitting on the edge of their seats to watch.


    Im going to start the enhancement right away.


    I had a One-time Free Pass Scroll Enhancement Permit.


    [One-time Free Pass Scroll Enhancement Permit]


    A permit to enhance the Free Pass Scroll one time.


    Required Coins: 50,000 Coins


    It required a whopping 50,000 Coins, but that was fine. Many Guardians were focusing on this scene, <em>and</em> I would be able to clear the U-Plex Dungeon again.


    I need 50k Coins for each scroll, so 100k for both mine and Sung-gus.


    It wasnt a small sum for me at this point in time. I would have to use a huge 100k of the 138k Coins I had saved bit by bit.


    When going for something, you just gotta take the plunge.


    To be precise, this was an investment. An investment that would create the miracle of a level 32 yer clearing the unassable U-Plex Dungeon once again.


    From the standpoint of the Guardians, a miracle.


    * * *


    * * *


    I purposefully dragged things out a little. Right now, we had two Guardians from the Italian server, and even one from the Scond server. It was probably a sign that Senias channel was bing more and more famous.


    Ive waited long enough.


    I started enhancing.


    [Enhance the Beginner Free Pass Scroll?]


    [Calcting the enhancement sess rate.]


    The +1 sess rate for regr items was typically around 100%. But this cheat effect scroll would have a much lower sess rate. I heard it was only 50% for the +1 enhancement, which was why it was a scroll most people didnt try to enhance.


    What percent will it be?


    It was fine even if the enhancement failed. That, too, was entertaining content in its own way.


    [The sess rate will be determined by the yers talent andpetence.]


    [+1 enhancement sess rate: 120%]


    It was 120% again. A little time passed, and then I went right into enhancing the second scroll.[The enhancement was sessful.]


    By now, I knew this couldnt be chalked up to coincidence. I was sure of it. At least in the under-40 period, my enhancement talent was world-ss. Only outstanding talent could possibly exin this result.


    Sung-gu took the enhanced scroll with a sour face.


    You enhanced it? His jaw dropped. But whats with this effect? Its not even just a regr clear


    What I did wasnt a regr enhancement. When I enhanced regr items before, I got blue and purple grade items. But enhancing this scroll gave a free brown Clear Crystal.


    It gives a brown Clear Crystal? Sung-gu wiped the sweat from his forehead. Arent you a sovereign? Whyre you so good at enhancement, too? Or wait, is this how it normally is?


    No, far from it. People with outstanding talent for enhancement were so rare that yers good at enhancement were even called craftsmen or masters.


    Youre a sovereign, youre good at fighting, youre smart, youre popr, and youre even good at enhancement. Ugh. We call blokes like you broken. You broken af mofo, he grumbled.


    His words might be derisive, but Sung-gus state was full to the brim with happiness and slight admiration.


    Lets clear and get out.


    I ripped the scroll and heard a notice.


    [Brown Clear Crystal has been destroyed.]


    [The U-Plex Dungeon has been cleared.]


    [Distributing U-Plex Dungeon clear rewards.]


    My eyes were blinded. We found ourselves in front of the U-Plex Dungeon entrance.


    Ngh!


    My eyes werent just blinded by the change in brightness.


    My eyes


    It was only for the slightest moment, but I suddenly felt extreme pain, like someone was carving out my eyes with a huge needle. The feeling was reminiscent of when I came face to face with the Demon King.


    Theres no Demon King here.


    It wasnt the same feeling. That brief sh of pain disappeared like it never happened.


    Just now, that was


    I suddenly realized what the pain I had just felt in my eyes meant.

 Chapter 130

    Chapter 130


    I had already experienced Precognitive Dream once. That weird feeling of dj vu still lingered within hands reach, and that experience allowed me to make an inference about the sensation I was feeling now.


    Just now, that was Precognitive Eye.


    Precognitive Eye. An eye that sees the future.


    It wasnt that I specifically saw some kind of future. But I could tell.


    Someone around me is in danger.


    Or they would meet danger in the future. The famous astrologist of Japan, Itachi, once said:


    <em>The ability to see the future is apanied by constant, extreme pain. That is why seeing the future is dangerous. There are those who are unable to ovee the pain and be madmen, or even die.</em>


    I was sure of it. Someone was in danger.


    Is there anything that could pose a threat at this point in time?


    I thought back to the past. Today was October 10th, 2018. I couldnt recall anything in particr that happened in Korea that could bring danger to Sunhwa and my party members.


    The possibility Mom or Noona are in danger is


    I didnt think it was something like a car ident. The sensation I just had, what my Eye of Perception told me upon sensing danger in the future, wasnt something so mundane.


    Its not Mom or Noona.


    It was rted to yers. That was a sure fact.


    So that just leaves Sunhwa and the others


    What could possibly endanger them? Even now, they were yers at the front of the pack. We hadnt even entered the Gwanghwamun Dungeon we were going to tackle soon. Nothing particrly dangerous would happen to them.


    If not them, then


    Could it be rted to my Find the Red Eyes quest? Could it be that some danger woulde to Ahn Seohye, a person I was in close contact with?


    Currently, thats the most likely possibility.


    I had to confirm it. The most important person to me was Sunhwa, so I called her first.


    Hi, Oppa.


    For now, it didnt seem like anything bad had happened to Sunhwa.


    Im at home, but Im going out now.


    Where are you going?


    I have a date with Yeonseo unnie.


    With Yeonseo? Where?


    Hongdae! Were gonna eat tasty cake. Oh, right. Seohye unnie is also gonna be there


    From the way she was talking, she seemed to be saying Do you want toe too, Oppa? or Itd be great if you coulde too!, but she didnt say it outright. She probably thought I was too busy for that.


    You said youre going to Hongdae?


    Yep! Theres a ce with superduper tasty carrot cake in Hongdae. Its supposed to be like suuuuuuper tasty. Youd probably like it too, Oppa. Like really really like it.


    Then buy me one too.


    Sunhwa gave me a slightly morose Okay! at that. After hanging up, I thought for a moment.


    Hongdae.


    Mid-October, 2018. Hongdae. Sword Empress. Sunhwa. Ahn Seohye. When I put these keywords together, something seemed to dislodge itself from the depths of my memory and float to the surface.


    Ah.


    There <em>was </em>one incident. It happened not in Hongdae, but the directly neighboring Hapjeong. There was an incident called the Mad Dog Tamers Hostage Crisis. It didnt have much to do with the future I was drafting, so I didnt pay much attention to it.


    Some dude tamed a bunch of monsters and created a violent hostage crisis.


    I didnt remember his name. By future standards, this was just one incident among many. Although people died, there were far fewer losses than the breaks of the Seoul Station Dungeon, U-Plex Dungeon, or the Gwanghwamun Dungeon that would soon open.


    He killed a bunch of innocent civilians.


    In the end, that tamer was killed by yers. Hongdae and Hapjeong were exactly one bus stop away. If the Precognitive Eye I felt was real, there was a high chance something could happen to the three girls.


    Did that mean I should tell them not to go to Hongdae or Hapjeong because it was dangerous?


    No.


    I remembered what Itachi said.


    <em>The ability to see the future is a cursed ability. Do not divulge the future you glimpsed. Something terrifying is bound to happen. Do not try to change the future with your ability to see the future. That will only result in a far more terrible oue than the misfortune you saw.</em>


    That was the wisdom left by Itachi, one of the top yers with the ability to see the future. He had met an early death at 28 years old.


    I called Sunhwa again.


    Are you calling again because you want to eat carrot cake too, Oppa?


    Sunhwas voice was bright with anticipation. It felt like she was practically shing Come with us, Oppa! in neon lights.


    She diligently cast an incantationif you could call it thatlike she was trying to entice me intoing.


    Carrot cake! Carrot cake! Su! Per! De! Li! Cious!


    Sunhwa. If you happen to meet a dangerous tamer, call me right away.


    A tamer?


    Yeah. And you said you were meeting up with Ahn Seohye, right?


    The Ahn Seohye from the past and the current Ahn Seohye were different.


    In the past, Ahn Seohye wasnt in Hongdae.


    That was a definite fact. If she hadnt be friends with Yeonseo or Sunhwa, she would have never gone to hang out on such a busy street. In the past, she might have even been nursing the wounds Seo Joohwan inflicted on her while bing the Red Demon.


    The key is Ahn Seohye.


    Starting from the Predator Tree Colony, the threads of fate that bound us were running unsevered. It was even possible that me sensing future danger out of the blue had something to do with the Red-Eyed Girl.


    Also, Sunhwa.


    I decided to say the most I could tell her in the current situation.


    If by any chance you see Seohyes eyes turn red, be sure to call me.


    * * *


    * * *


    Hongdae University Station, Exit 9. Feeling a little nervous, Ahn Seohye met up with Shin Yeonseo.


    Its so fascinating to me that Ive be friends with you, Unnie.


    Really?


    Yeonseo shed her a bright smile. Facing those dazzling smiling eyes, Seohye actually felt her heart flutter.


    I think Im getting a crush on you, Unnie.


    The fluttering in her heart was a little different from attraction towards the opposite sex, but in any case, her heart was thumping, since Shin Yeonseo was something of an idol to Seohye.


    At some point, Sunhwa arrived as well.


    Hehe. Sorry for beingte!


    The three walked together to their destination. Yeonseo sighed.


    Whys it soplicated to get there?


    Of course, the path wasnt hard at all. They just had to go in a straight line. It was just that Yeonseo had an incredibly hopeless sense of direction. Seohye didnt bother to point that out.


    We just have to go this way. Its in between Hongdae and Hapjeong.


    Wow. Youre a real pro at reading the map.


    No, its because the app has gotten really good these days.


    For Sunhwa, the path there was of zero concern. Her attention waspletely absorbed by the prospect of carrot cake.


    Carrot cake! Carrot cake!


    The three girls entered the caf, where they proceeded to spend a staggering three hours chattering about this and that. Even after all that talking, it still wasnt enough.


    Seohye hesitantly spoke up. Kim Hyukjin. That person What kind of person <em>is </em>he, really?


    My oppa?


    Seohye noticed that Sunhwa put special emphasis on the word my.


    Looks like you guys have a close sibling rtionship. Thats pretty rare.


    I really like Oppa.


    Naturally, the groups subject of choice became Kim Hyukjin.


    He seems like a really fascinating person, said Seohye.


    My oppa is fascinating?


    Yeah. Or should I say mysterious?


    My oppa somehow feels way adult-like, right?


    Because Sunhwa insisted on peppering every sentence with my oppa, the flow of the conversation was a little awkward, but Seohye just disregarded that.


    Yeah. Your oppa really is.


    Sunhwa puffed her chest out at that, smiling happily like she was the one who had beenplimented. Thats just how my oppa is.


    While saying so, Sunhwa examined Seohyes eyes.


    Red eyes?


    They werentpletely red.


    Since when?


    It was only a hint of , like she was wearing very slightly tinted circle lenses.


    I think theyve been like that since we started talking about Oppa.


    Sunhwa didnt outwardly disy her thoughts. She just naturally picked up her phone and sent Hyukjin a message, telling him that Seohye unnies eyes had turned just a little red. It was faint enough that you could only tell with close inspection, but they were definitely red.


    The next moment, a siren went off outside.


    aaaaaare!


    All civilians, please evacuate.


    An evacuation notice was broadcasted. The people inside the coffee shop jumped to their feet.


    Wh-Whats going on?


    Wasnt that an evacuation notice?


    Have monsters appeared?


    They checked the situation with their phones.


    Oh my God!


    There was a hostage crisis in Hapjeong. A crazy yer was leading strange monsters from Hapjeong towards Hongdae.


    Articles and social media posts poured out in real time.


    [Random Killing in Hapjeong]


    [Random Murder Incident Using a yers Strength]


    Some tamer started killing people for no reason and was now holding hostages in a standoff with the dispatched police. Seohye also jumped up.


    Lets go. Its right next to us. If we run, itll only take ten minutes.


    Yeonseos reaction was a little more cautious than Seohyes. The police have surrounded him. Even if wee forward, not much will change.


    There were even people streaming the scene live through mediums like YouTube. The man on the screen was throwing his head back in madughter.


    This is it! This is what I wanted! This is what I always wanted!


    The broadcast suddenly cut off. Someone had been ripped apart by a monster.


    * * *


    Even the police found their hands tied in the sudden wanton murder and hostage crisis in Hapjeong. Strangely enough, weapons like guns didnt work on yers.


    A man named Kang Younghan walked step by step from Hapjeong towards Hongdae University Station.


    Stop right there! If you move, well shoot! warned the policemen.


    Try it then.


    Bang! Bang!


    The policemen really fired.


    Hihihihi! You think guns can do anything to me? Afterughing his heart out, Kang Younghan shouted, SIC EM! Bite to your hearts content! Rip everyone apart! Kill them all!


    He didnt have a particr reason to kill. He just found it fun.


    This is a game, a game!


    Yes, a game. This was all a game. He never knew that watching begging and screaming people get eaten alive could be so fun.


    [Weredogs level has increased.]


    [Weredogs level has increased.]


    The levels of his monsters were even going up. How wonderful was that?!


    Soon, theyll evolve to Warriordogs.


    Then, they would be much stronger. He began to feel confidence that his monsters might even be able to devour the hugely famous Tutorial Ender, So Yoohyun.


    Sic em!


    Weredogs. Just like how Lycanthropes were humanoid wolves, Weredogs were humanoid dogs. Their original level was 20, but after taming and buffing, and through the hunting of humans, his Weredogs had be level 30. EXP went up exponentially by hunting humans, and it didnt even take that long to reach this point.


    Six Weredogs peeled away from the pack and ran off. Two went in the direction of Yeouido, and four towards Hongdae.


    <em>Woof! Woof! Woof!</em>


    The bipedal dogs ran around in a frenzy of bloody activity, ripping apart policemen and civilians alike.


    The Hapjeong and Hongdae areas were in absolute and utter chaos.


    One of the Weredogs stood in ce, sniffing. It continued to re its nose, as if it were looking for something.


    Shortly afterwards, it began to howl. Its cry also reached Kang Younghan.


    Oho? Theres tasty prey that way, you say?


    Prey more delicious than regr people. Even more delicious if they were yers, who possessed magical power. Right now, Younghan was full of confidence. He felt like he could hunt down any yer, no matter who, as long as he had his twenty Weredogs specialized for hunting.


    The Weredogs that had run off towards Yeouido also rejoined the pack.


    The police cant stop me!


    The police were helpless against him, and people were fleeing from him in terror.


    What absolute ecstasy!


    Just then, he spotted someone.


    Hrm?


    It was a yer who was renowned for 1 vs. 1 PVP. Even from afar, she was truly pretty. In his eyes, Shin Yeonseo was like an angel.


    Shin Yeonseo?


    How beautiful would it be if he ripped that angels arms and legs off her body? She would look like a bleeding doll, wouldnt she?


    Shes strong in 1 vs. 1, but


    His Weredogs stood in front of him like sturdy soldiers.


    Go. You have new prey, children.


    The Weredogs began to sprint towards Shin Yeonseo. She took out her sword.


    Individually, theyre weak.


    But there were just a bit too many of them.


    Twenty in total.


    Could she face them all? There was no need for that.


    Sunhwa?


    Got it.


    She had a tank second to none by her side. The Weredogs teeth couldnt prate Sunhwas defenses.[Using the skill AOE Taunt.]


    [!] marks popped up over the heads of the Weredogs at the same time. Sunhwa sessfully pulled every single one of them. The Weredogs swerved to rush towards Sunhwa.


    Sunhwa, hold tight for a bit.


    Got it!


    Yeonseo knew that this monster swarm wasnt naturally made. That man over there, who she figured was the tamer, was the culprit behind all this.


    I have to kill him.


    It just so happened that the path to him was free. If she rushed through, she could kill that man. However, she didnt heedlessly run in.


    I have a bad feeling somehow.


    That feeling was something akin to instinct. The way was clear, but she didnt rush through. She could make a beeline towards him, but she didnt. Was it because that man was dangerous? No.


    Seohyes eyes


    Ahn Seohyes eyes were red. The world of new culture where anything was possible had arrived, and someones eyes bing red wasnt that remarkable on its own. How could someones eyes turning red be a big deal in a world where magic existed?


    But theyre ominous.


    Yeonseo got a bad feeling from them. That was why she didnt take action.


    While she was thinking, one of the de-aggroed Weredogs made a mad rush towards Seohye and bit the back of her neck. Yeonseo swiftly brought down her sword on it.


    Seohye. Are you okay?


    The Weredogs teeth didnt cut deep into the skin. Yeonseo had acted quickly. It wasnt a serious injury. A little blood ran down Seohyes neck.


    Blood she mumbled to herself. Blood.!


    She continued to mumble.


    Blood!


    Ahn Seohye touched the blood with her index finger and brought it to her lips and licked it. Her eyes turned crimson red, bing Red Eyes in full.


    And that change was witnessed by the Observer Kim Hyukjin, who was watching the situation some distance away.

 Chapter 131

    Chapter 131


    I observed Ahn Seohye from a distance. When I focused on Observers Eye, it felt like everything else faded away and I could only see Ahn Seohye in perfect rity, like she was the only thing in the world with distinct and clear edges. It was almost like I was staring at Ahn Seohye with a magnifying ss.


    Red Eyes. Her eyes were glowing bright red. I saw themst time, too, but they give off a weird feeling.


    Also, the Shepherd Boy was looking for those Red Eyes as well.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. What do you intend on doing? I am not streaming at the moment.


    The reason Senia was asking me this was simple. She was saying she wanted to n out in advance how to shoot the uing scene.


    I have to clear the Shepherd Boys quest and stop that crazy bastard.


    Which of the two will you focus on more?


    Not sure. I havent decided yet. You decide that on your own.


    Understood.


    Senia had be a lot more reliabletely.


    To start. I started walking towards Ahn Seohye. Yeonseo and Sunhwa are there, so there shouldnt be much cause for danger.


    Originally, the average level of Weredogs was around 20. But seeing as the polices weapons didnt work on them, that tamer must have raised their levels a lot. When I checked with Eye of Perception, their levels were around 30. Level 20 monsters being at level 30 meant they had really raised their levels a ton.


    That crazy bastards name is Kang Younghan.


    He was extremely far away, but I could read his information.


    [yer]


    Name: Kang Younghan


    Age: 35


    Level: 28


    ss: Weredog Tamer


    Guardian: Lone Wolf


    Innate ability: -


    State: Enjoyment / Pleasure / Arrogance


    Disposition: Psychopathic / Sadist


    Summary:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    Conceited ughterer</li><li>


    Self-Proimed Thousand Dog Master</li></ol><ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    The disposition/state/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li>


    Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    ss, Weredog Tamer.


    As soon as I saw his ss name, I knew how it was that the Weredogs were so high level and were so much stronger than regr Weredogs, even stronger than Lycanthropes. The reason was that ss, Weredog Tamer.


    A restricted ss that can only tame Weredogs. In exchange, its extremely potent.


    It was thanks to his ss that Kang Younghan was able to raise the Weredogs levels so fast. This tamer had the misfortune of being an early bloomer yer. No matter how strong his Weredogs became, they could never break free of their Weredog constraints. He could evolve his Weredogs into Warriordogs or Great Warriordogs, but that was the limit. A Weredog was, after all, a Weredog. It could never be a dragon.


    Hes an early bloomer, but a psychopath.


    It was actually a relief that such a madman was an early bloomer.


    Observers Eye switched focus to Ahn Seohye again. She was licking the blood from her neck. From that moment onwards, her aura changed.


    What is this feeling?


    I felt intense bloodthirst from Ahn Seohye, but it was hard to grasp. The feeling came and slipped away repeatedly, appearing and disappearing repeatedly from Observers Eyes view.


    I decided how I wanted to y,ing up with a list of priorities.


    Senia. For now, Ive found the Red Eyes. You can start streaming.


    I would start by going to the Red Eyes. I set off immediately, using sh Step towards the changed Ahn Seohye.


    * * *


    I found the Red Eyes mentioned by the Shepherd Boy. The Guardian happened to be in Senias channel.


    [You have sessfully found the Red Eyes.]


    [The Shepherd Boy is very happy.]


    The rewards followed in quick session.


    [The title Hundred Dog Master has been upgraded to the title Thousand Dog Master.]


    [5,000 Coins acquired.]


    Those two were the rewards I already knew about. I was also given the one that had appeared as a -.[The linked scenario is being triggered.]


    The - reward was acquisition of a linked scenario.


    [The linked scenario  Red Eye Extraction has been triggered.]


    [Due to the linked scenario, you have been temporarily granted the special ability Hand of Extraction.]


    Red Eye Extraction?


    Didnt extraction mean pulling something out?


    Im supposed to pull out the Red Eyes?


    To that end, I was temporarily given a special ability called Hand of Extraction. Even for the Shepherd Boy, this must have been a huge expense.


    Why?


    I would make the Guardians go wild. That was impossible to achieve if you only did meekly as they said and wanted. You had to figure out the Guardian and find out what it was they really wanted. Basically, you had to be good at mind games.


    You cant just naively ept quests and be happy just because you cleared them.


    The Demon King had said so as well, hadnt he?


    <em>Do not trust the Guardians too much.</em>


    I didnt, of course. I didnt trust the Guardians too much. That was why my brain was whirling, trying to figure out why the Shepherd Brain wanted to find and extract the Red Eyes at the cost of such incredible expense.


    If I extract the Red Eyes whatll happen to Seohye?


    There was no information about that. Would it just be that the red color disappeared, or would Seohye lose her vision?


    I heard a voice.


    Who are <em>you?</em>


    I felt a gaze bearing weak murderous intenting towards me, the sudden interloper who had appeared out of nowhere. The owner of the gaze was Kang Younghan. About ten Weredogs looking this way were arrayed around him.


    What do you think youre doing? I responded.


    Isnt it obvious? The tamerughed. Im in the middle of having some fun.


    He was truly mad.


    Guess I can keep it short.


    Originally, I was nning on talking with him to draw reactions out of Guardians like the Lady of the Scales or the Whispering Devil. But it seemed that wasnt necessary.


    Self-Proimed Ten Thousand Dog Master.


    A mere Weredog Tamer was calling himself a Ten Thousand Dog Master, even though he couldnt even tame a regr Big ck Dog, much less a Twin-Headed Big ck Dog.


    Just imagine. How sweet do you think the blooding out of that beautiful womans severed arms and legs will be? Ive never seen such a pretty woman.


    A shiver ran through his body.State: Pleasure / Freakish Enjoyment


    He was well and truly mad. There was nothing to gain from drawing things out with him.


    Weredogs, hear me.


    The Weredogs turned in unison to look at me. Even a Weredog chasing someone far in the distance screeched to a stop and immediately ran this way.


    The Thousand Dog Mastermands thee.


    It felt simr to the Will Incantation. It wasnt exactly the Will Incantation, but my words were imbued with my will<em>.</em>


    All Weredogs shall cease hunting.


    Weredogscked rationality. They couldnt possibly understand human speech. But I knew very well that my will was being conveyed to the Weredogs, and that these will-imbued words were like the first step of the Will Incantation.


    Wh-What?


    Kang Younghan staggered back in shock, having sensed that his ns were going awry.


    That bastard! Kill that bastard!


    But the Weredogs didnt move. It was natural. Although he was a Weredog Tamer, I was a Thousand Dog Master.


    [Thousand Dog Master]


    Higher level title of Hundred Dog Master.


    Inducesplete submission of all pure dog monsters under level 40.


    Grants extreme intimacy with all pure dog monsters between levels 40-50.


    Grants weak intimacy with all pure dog monsters between levels 50-60.


    Weredogs fell perfectly into the category of pure dog monsters, monsters that were purely dogs with nothing else mixed in. Unfortunately for Kang Younghan, my rank as a tamer was higher than his Weredog Tamer.


    What are you all doing?! I said, KILL HIM! screamed Kang Younghan.


    Its useless.


    Sadly for him, be it talent as a tamer, knowledge, or titles, I topped him in every aspect. We were yers of entirely different sses.


    Useless?! Bullshit!


    He pulled out a whistle from his pocket. He blew it desperately, but it was no use. Cold sweat ran down the mans back as he stumbled backwards.


    J-J-Just what the hell are you?!


    An Observer. What else?


    Just then, one of the unmoving Weredogs suddenly jumped and bit down on Kang Younghans head.


    <em>Crunch!</em>


    The wet crack of bone rang out.


    Blood ran down the Weredogs maw. Kang Younghans body went limp, and at the same time, the Weredogs began to fall one by one like toppling dominoes.


    Monsters that have lost their owner.


    Some tamed monsters would die along with their owners. It seemed Weredogs were that kind of tamed creature. In the end, all of the Weredogs copsed where they stood.


    All that was left was a corpse with a grotesquely mutted head.


    The problem is I stared at the body. I didntmand it to kill.


    I didnt intend on directly killing Kang Younghan. I wanted to turn him over to the police. But even without amand from me, the Thousand Dog Master, the Weredog killed its owner on its own initiative.


    And its not that my will was conveyed.


    The Weredog was influenced by something. That influence urged it to bite its owner to death.


    Some kind of influence. My eyes moved towards a certain girl. Seohye. It might have been your influence.


    I locked eyes with the girl with the red eyes, the girl who was unknowingly billowing murderous intent.


    My influence?


    Seohyes way of speech had changed a little. Before, she had struggled so much to talk to me, but now


    Its like when I saw her at Rapundels mansion.


    Back when we were in front of the portraits, she was this calm and unruffled, too. She was under the influence of something, and she didnt realize it. This was probably because of the Red Eyes, and these Red Eyes were what the Shepherd Boy wanted.


    Shall we talk for a moment?


    * * *


    * * *


    I didnt know what might happen, so we needed a safe and quiet location. But she would probably be too scared toe to my house, so I borrowed a room in the yer Center with Song Kiyeols help.


    After some time, the red light faded from Seohyes eyes.


    The way I see it, your eyes are imbued with a special power. Theyre activated when a special condition is fulfilled.


    ...


    I continued the conversation one-sidedly. Theres a Guardian who wants your eyes. To be precise, they want the Red Eyes.


    I exined everything I knew.


    You have to make the choice.


    I couldnt pluck them by force. Some kind of side effect might ur, or she might even lose her Barrier Magician power. It could also be that nothing would happen. No one knew what exactly would ur.


    You said you can get rid of these eyes with your skill, sir?


    As I expected, Seohye was vaguely aware of these Red Eyes. She said she was scared of them, that she wanted to get rid of them, if possible.


    There could be side effects. However, I also had to exin what would happen if she didnt do anything about them. But if you keep those eyes you could go mad. You saw, right? That crazy tamer today.


    ...Yes.


    I looked at Seohyes state.State: Fear


    I only saw fear. I could clearly feel her desire to not be that way. After thinking for a long time, Ahn Seohye spoke again.


    ...To be honest, I was afraid.


    She had felt it from the start.


    ...


    I didnt know how to answer her. Was I supposed to warmlyfort her? I didnt know, so I just quietly listened. I listened as best as I could, with every bit of sincerity.


    There was no one, <em>no one</em>, I could talk to.


    This young woman was refused help several times and was sexually abused by the person closest to her, her father. I understood her situation.


    All the people and all the adults I trusted made me afraid.


    Tears welled in her eyes. I simply listened, giving her space to speak on her own. I waited so that she could express her inner feelings. As I did so, I felt my heart itch, but it wasnt attraction towards the opposite sex.


    No, this itch was something else entirely.


    Like when I empathized with the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog.


    It was the same feeling I got when my emotions synched with the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog. What I learned back then from a monster was applying now to a human, Ahn Seohye.


    And


    The sensation I felt in the Yellow Charm Gate wasing back to me.


    That time when I recognized the false authority and my Eye of Perception dismantled it with the power of insight, the sensation of the Will Incantation I achieved at that time, it became a current of hot blood surging within my body.


    As she spoke the words that had been festering in her heart, tears fell from Seohyes eyes.


    Thats why I couldnt trust anyone.


    She said she was scared. She was so, so very scared. She kept saying those words, over and over again. She also said There was no one I could trust several times. But I didnt get tired of hearing the same things. It felt like I was assimting the darkness in Seohyes heart.


    This is the empathy mentioned by the System.


    Right now, I was empathizing with Seohyes darkness. A very long time passed, about an hour of me sitting and listening. But that time didnt feel like very long.


    Please help me.


    When I heard those words, it was like the world in front of me brightened, and I knew. I had created a new will. With it, I could invoke a new Will Incantation.


    Please, help me.


    Those words became the catalyst. My steadily heating blood seemed to boil.


    I will help you.


    <em>Observation.</em>


    <em>Empathy.</em>


    And built upon those two, the <em>will </em>to help.


    New words began to flow from my mouth, words that pointed towards a new realm.

 Chapter 132

    Chapter 132


    The itchiness in Hyukjins heart was expelled in the form of words. He fell into a trance. His subconscious read the world and looked directly into Ahn Seohyes darkness.


    His subconscious found themon point between his previous self and the current Seohye.


    I was like you, once.


    The world hadnt been on his side. His mom had died from illnessto be more precise, she had died because theycked the money to treat herand his sister had gotten leukemia. Hed med everything on hisck of talent, living in the moldy half-underground room he called home, thinking he should just do his best tomorrow, too. Thinking that his day woulde. That someday, things would be alright. How nice that would be. It was hard now, but how nice it would be if things got better.


    That was how hed lived.


    No. I still had it better than you.


    At the very least, he had a family. Seohye didnt even have that. She only had a disgusting man who couldnt even be called a father.


    Having looked straight at the darkness in Seohyes heart, an incantation flowed from Hyukjins lips.


    <em>Observation.</em>


    <em>Empathy.</em>


    <em>Will.</em>


    And on top of that, her confession of t<em>rust</em>.


    Trust is the truth of desires


    And the proof of what cannot be seen.


    A state of will, and will-lessness. An incantation Hyukjin was speaking, but not speaking. It was the Will Incantation, but not one he was manifestingpletely with his will alone.


    No, it came from a <em>deeper </em>ce<em>,</em> one that was more primal. A ce of instinct. The words continued to fall from his lips.


    One who trusts even without seeing shall live even in death.


    Thy cry of agony and entreaty, I have heard.


    Thus shall I sublimate thycerating suffering into peace and joy.


    Hyukjin paused to catch his breath.


    I stand upon iron trust and faith and do proim:


    Before, the Will Incantation Hyukjin recited was an incantation to topple false authority.


    This time, it was different.


    I will help you.


    The ability to see the darkness within a girls heart, to share and empathize with that darkness on a deeper level, his sincere desire to help the poor girl in front of him, and the trust of the girl who desperately wanted helpall of it converged into the Incantation of Salvation.


    [<em>You who have trust.</em>]


    [<em>Imand thee. Open thy eyes and face the world.</em>]


    The timing came to him as naturally as the words, like he had been born knowing this, like it was inscribed in his very cells.


    [You have sessfully uttered the Will Incantation.]


    [Temporarily increasing the grade of Hand of Extraction based on thepletion level of the Will Incantation.]


    Hyukjin saw that the formless energy created through the incantation, the powerful desire and wish he had harnessed, was amassing on his hand.


    I can see it.


    It had neither form nor color, but it was visible to Hyukjins eyes. The eye that discerned the true nature of things, Eye of Perception, made it visible to him, and his infinite talent made that possible.


    Now.


    He drew out his strength. This wasnt the ordinary use of a skill. He artificially controlled the flow of mana through a skill.


    Along with the power of the desire manifested by the incantation


    Golden light burst out from Hyukjins right hand.


    [The temporary ability Hand of Extraction is being changed to the temporary ability Hand of Salvation.]


    [Using the Hand of Salvation.]


    Hyukjin could feel it.


    Seohye. Its going to hurt a little.


    ...


    Seohye was trembling from head to toe. She was struck with the feeling that some kind of powerful exterior force was tying her down.


    What I can say to you right now is this:


    What Hyukjin could say at this moment was nothing special.


    Trust me.


    He gave neither reasoning nor basis. He simply asked her to trust him.


    I will help you.


    He was being sincere. Seohye must have seen that, because her state instantly changed.State: Unconscious Trust / Weak Fear / Increasing Faith


    And then, Hyukjin knew. This was the moment. This was the optimal time to discharge the energy of the Hand of Salvation he had gathered and amassed in his right hand.


    The palm of Hyukjins right hand covered Seohyes eyes. Radiant golden light shone from his hand, while wicked red light gleamed from Seohyes eyes.


    GAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH!


    Seohye screamed. Despite having entered a trance again, Hyukjin could hear it. He, too, was unable to speak.


    You have to ovee it.


    His right hand was over Seohyes eyes, and his left hand grabbed hers. The girls hand was incredibly cold.


    I dont know how muchfort this will be to her, but


    He didnt know if holding her hand would bring any reassurance, if sharing his heat with this cold hand could be of any help. But he still held on in the hopes it would bolster her.


    Seohyes screams became sharp stakes that stabbed Hyukjins ears.


    It must hurt a lot.


    Right now, he was in a state of deep emotionalmunion with Seohye. Though indirect, he could approximate the depth of the terrible agony she was feeling.


    Focus.


    Right now, Hyukjin was extracting the Red Eyes, using not the Hand of Extraction, but the Hand of Salvation.


    The Shepherd Boy is a son of a bitch, too.


    If the Shepherd Boy had really exerted himself, if he had really gone all out, he would have gifted Hyukjin the Hand of Salvation rather than the Hand of Extraction to begin with.


    If I had unknowingly used the Hand of Extraction Seohye would have be blind for life.


    The Shepherd Boy probably knew that. But it seemed such a trifling detail was of no concern to the Guardian.


    He just focused on getting the Red Eyes.


    But the situation was different now. If the Red Eyes were extracted with the Hand of Salvation, only the energy of the Red Eyes would be extracted. Seohyes eyes would be left intact.


    A long time passed.


    Hyukjins back waspletely drenched in sweat. Seohye lost consciousness and copsed. Hyukjins body was trembling uncontrobly.


    Its done.


    The next moment, a massive wave of weakness swallowed him.


    Its d


    Hyukjins body toppled onto Seohyes with a thud. His right hand dropped limply to his side, holding something that looked like a red marble.


    <em>Roll.</em>


    The red marble fell out of Hyukjins hand and rolled away, promptly catching Darongis eye.


    [!!!]


    The squirrel scampered after it and picked it up. The red marble was bigger than his body.


    He hemmed and hawed, deliberating for a long time.


    [;;;]


    Should he open his mouth and eat it, or not? He hesitated.


    [!!!]


    <em>Lets eat it! </em>he thought, and opened his mouth wide, but then


    [;;;]


    He shook his head with an expression that seemed to say, No, I cant.


    [...]


    In the end, Darongi moved the marble to his Inventory without eating it. Seized by a pique of anger, he stomped over and mbered onto the unconscious Hyukjins back.


    [!!!]


    He stomped on Hyukjin and also pummeled his cheeks with his tiny fists. On one hand, it looked like he was venting his frustration on Hyukjin for dropping such a tasty-looking thing and making him suffer such a trial, while on the other, it seemed the squirrel was trying to wake his master up.


    * * *


    * * *


    A long time passed. I heard a voice.


    ...alright?


    I slowly opened my eyes. My bleary vision brightened.


    Are you alright?


    A familiar voice.


    Ah.


    It was my little sister Kim Sunhwa, the child who came with me to this ce, the yer Center.


    Are you alright?


    Sunhwas eyes were wet with tears.


    Im alright. I only fainted because I used too much strength for a moment there.


    With a sob, Sunhwa grabbed me in an embrace. She must have been really worried. You were unconscious for an hour! she wailed.


    Are you okay?


    Song Kiyeol was standing behind Sunhwa.


    Yes, Im alright.


    As you instructed in advance, I didnt transfer you to the hospital, but


    Yes, you did well. Where did the child who was here go?


    She was panicking, saying she couldnt see. Were calming her down, for now.


    I see.


    She might not be able to see for a little bit. But because I had used the Hand of Salvation and not the Hand of Extraction, her vision would soon return.


    Darong.


    I fainted, but my all-seeing eye didnt faint along with me. Even though I didnt physically see it, I knew.


    [?]


    The squirrel blinked innocently at me. His expression imed, I know nothing, but unfortunately for the squirrel, his master was an Observer.


    You got it, right?


    Darongi shook his head. [;;;] marks popped up above his head.


    Fine. Just know there wont be any fried chicken for you in the future.


    I jerked into a walk, the sudden motion causing Darongi to tumble from my shoulder. He barely managed to grab onto my t-shirt and hung on for dear life.


    I heard a notice.[Darongi is requesting you to open his Inventory.]


    Darongi 0, Fried Chicken 1. As I walked backwards, a smile hung on my lips.


    * * *


    I returned home. Thankfully, Seohye calmed down quickly, and her eyesight was slowly recovering, too. For the time being, she went back to the protective services facility. I had asked Kiyeol to take special care of her, so she was probably getting at least VVIP treatment.


    Theres another yellow charm.


    Taped to the underside of my desk was, as always, a yellow charm filled with Noonas wish. I was dumbfounded that she was still writing those. Whoever had her as their sister was one lucky bastard. She was one devoted sis.


    So now


    What should I do with the Red Eyes sitting nice and pretty in my Inventory? All I could see about it was that it was in the shape of a red marble. I couldnt read the detailed description.


    Red Eyes


    -


    The Shepherd Boy must know that I got this.


    Senia had streamed everything. It wasnt my intention, but it was probably a pretty dramatic scene.


    The Shepherd Boy must also know what exactly this is.


    I knew it was an item the Shepherd Boy really needed. So what should I do with it?


    [Find the Red Eyes.]


    The quest linked to the Note from the Shepherd Boy. Find the Red Eyes and deliver it to an Intermediate Administrator.


    Reward: - (currently hidden)


    Normally, the reward was shown. In other words, that meant this wasnt a normal case.


    Somethings bothering me.


    And yet, I couldnt just tantly ignore the Shepherd Boys quest. He was a Guardian of financial stature and power iparable to the likes of the Ruler of the ins, the Guardian Id turned into my enemy.


    It might bother me and I might not like it, but it was true that he was a big force to reckon with. He even granted a title called the Thousand Dog Master from a single linked quest. His strength was massive.


    It was important to keep public and private affairs separate. I needed to maintain a business rtionship with the Shepherd Boy.


    It heckles me to just hand this over.


    But I couldnt avoid doing so altogether, either. I couldnt handle the Shepherd Boy on my own. I had to move the other Guardians, and in a way that would let me secure the greatest profit possible in this situation. To siphon as much profit using everything at my disposal.


    I have to be careful.


    Messing with the Guardians was dangerous. One misstep, and you could be stamped as an official foe. If that happened, ying would be much more tiresome.


    I didnt show any of my thoughts outwardly. I justid on my bed like I was limp with exhaustion, acting like I was sleeping.


    <em>Tick. Tock.</em>


    I heard the ticking of the clock. Each tick sounded almost like a heavy footstep.


    After quite a lot of footsteps, a lot of time, I slowly opened my eyes. Like I had always done, I drew out the scenario in my mind.


    Theres no guarantee itll go exactly as I n.


    Despite that, I felt a little confidence take root within me.


    Senia.


    I called Senia, and sure enough, she had been watching me the whole time. She appeared immediately.


    Every step from here on out was important.


    Starting now, Ill draw a new picture.

 Chapter 133

    Chapter 133


    I decided to draw a new picture. If it was dangerous for me to move on my own, then I had to move the Guardians, with an emphasis on the s in Guardians.


    Are you streaming right now?


    No.


    I thought so. Senia had grown to the point where she couldnt even bepared to her former, newbie self, and she had long since learned the directing technique of cutting the footage right at the climax, called a sudden cut or sudden cliffhanger.


    If you had been streaming, I would have been disappointed.


    ...


    Normally, a yer couldnt say this sort of thing to an Intermediate Administrator without getting in trouble, but that wasnt the case for us. Senia didnt look particrly bothered. In fact, she seemed to have taken my words as apliment.


    I am in the process of learning many things thanks to yer Kim Hyukjin.


    The arrogance shed shown in the past was gone. Her humility and readiness to learn had grown in spades.


    Youll be able to learn a lot this time, too.


    Senias wings quivered for a moment, a sign that she had immediately picked up on the meaning behind my words.


    What do you n on doing?


    As Im sure you saw, I got the Red Eyes. Thats probably why you ended the stream.


    Yes.


    So watch carefully. See what I do moving forward.


    I had to discuss things with my Intermediate Administrator a little before enacting the n. I gave Senia a fairly detailed exnation so she could understand what kind of picture would be unfurling and how I would get there.


    ...is how Ill do it.


    After thinking for a long time, Senia slowly opened her mouth.


    If a regr yer hade to me with this sort of n, I would have refused without hesitation. The angel closed her eyes for a moment. She was as expressionless as usual, but I could feel that she was struggling to make a decision.


    ...However, yer Kim Hyukjin is not a regr yer.


    She closed her eyes again. A little more time passed.


    So I will participate in this potentially very reckless n of yours.


    It seemed she was aware that we were already in the same boat. I was surprised. I thought she would try to stop me a few times.


    Youre not trying to stop me?


    If I did, would you listen to me?


    Nope. She was well aware. Are you not trying to stop me because I wouldnt listen even if you did?


    If that was all, it was a little disappointing. It would be great if my Streamer, Senia, had grown as much as I had since my regression.


    No. I tried weighing the profit to be gained from proceeding with the scenario vs. the loss from blocking it. It is certainly dangerous and reckless, but I made the judgment that there is indeed a great deal of profit to be made.


    Her words were right. It was, as I always said, high risk, high return. After pausing for a breath, Senia added one more thing.


    All of this is something I could conclude because it is yer Kim Hyukjin, my exclusive contracted yer.


    * * *


    * * *


    I had dinner with my family


    It wasnt anything special, but I enjoyed it. Noonas cooking skills were improving by the day. She said cooking was fun, and she was telling the truth. I knew because I once examined Noonas back while she was cooking.State: Having Fun / Curious / Excited / Anticipation


    The act of cooking itself was enjoyable to her. Come to think of it, I had a faint memory of Noona wanting to be a chef a very long time ago.


    Was that really her dream?


    I didnt know. If her dream was to be a chef, then I would actively support her. I now had the ability to make whatever she wanted a reality. Because in this world ruled by new culture, I was capable of bing one of the rulers of new culture.


    Noona. Your kimchi stew today is killer.


    Shut up and eat.


    No, its super delicious. You could totally be a chef.


    I saw Noonas face through the steaming off the pot of stew. Our little miss Kim Ahyoungs face was a little red. She fanned her face awkwardly.


    Tch, making a stew made it all hot in here.


    Noona got up and opened the window. Unfortunately for her, I was an Observer, and I could clearly see the flush on the back of her neck. I decided for her sake to pretend I hadnt seen anything.


    After dinner, Sunhwa came to my room, a frequent urrence after eating. She would probably rattle off everything that happened at school again. Though it was annoying sometimes, it also made me happy. Even though it was annoying, if she<em> didnt </eme, Id probably miss her bubbly chatter.


    Sunhwa. Ill say something first today.


    Really?


    Sunhwas eyes widened. To my fascination, her ears actually perked up like a little puppy. There were people out there who could move their ears, and she was one of them.


    What is it?


    She sat on my desk chair and stared at me, waiting for what I had to say with bated breath. Her bright and shining eyes were full of curiosity.


    Im going to go into a dungeon by myself this time.


    A dungeon?


    Yeah.


    What kind of dungeon?


    I started talking with Sunhwa. When our discussion was mostly at its end, Sunhwas state changed.


    State: Trust / Faith / Worry / Fear


    Summary: Worried Brocon


    The weak or slight modifiers disappeared. Howe her summary was getting stranger and stranger as time went on? When would this girls puberty be over?


    In any case, her worry is sincere.


    Getting your familys worry wasnt a bad feeling. Although she was inwardly worrying a lot, my admirable tank was as diligent as ever.


    What should I do then?


    I need you to


    I would clear the Gwanghwamun Dungeon on my own. But there was something that Sunhwa had to do for me.


    The foundation was all set.


    * * *


    One day passed. My physical and mental preparations wereplete.


    Gwanghwamun Dungeon.


    I would be entering the Gwanghwamun Dungeon, the flower of the beginner period.


    Though it hasnt opened yet.


    I needed to look around a little and get my bearings. Another day passed, and my exploration finished as well.


    TN: This is a good time to give a little more detail about the Gwanghwamun. It is thergest gate of the Gyeongbokgung Pce, the main royal pce of the Joseon dynasty. Now, it is a cultural and historic monument and a tourist destination in Seoul.


    <em>October 19, 2018. Gwanghwamun Dungeon is generated.</em>


    A dungeon gate would be activated in Gwanghwamun, leading to a dungeon that would be cleared by 108 yers, including Taeguk Shield. That moment marked the beginning of Taeguk Shields wave of sess.


    The day after tomorrow, huh.


    I decided to rest for two days to recover my stamina and reach the best condition possible. If the U-Plex Dungeon was a nearly impossible dungeon to break in the beginner period, the Gwanghwamun Dungeon was a dungeon you <em>needed</em> to clear.


    I wont tell anyone about the dungeonization.


    I had learned my lesson from the U-Plex Dungeon. Wed been lucky and had been able to prevent the disaster back then, but that was all luck.


    I cant always bank on being lucky.


    I couldnt save everyone anyway. There was no way to block off the Gwanghwamun, and even if it was blocked off, that would very likely only result in greater loss of life. Forcefully twisting the flow of history would also create many variables.


    Yes. This is the right path.


    I sawughing and smiling couples passing by, enjoying a joyful time. They were lucky and visited today, but those who visited tomorrow might end up dying.


    As much as I would like to protect them, if possible


    That was outside of my ability. But just then, I heard a notice.


    [A trace of the Will Incantation remains intact.]


    [The weak influence of the Hand of Salvation remains within you.]


    I still had the power of the Will Incantation in me, which allowed me to retain a weakened version of the temporary ability I was granted.


    Because its the Hand of Salvation


    It reacted to my brief will to protect. And I intuitively knew what it was I had to do.


    I have no proof.


    I didnt have any concrete proof. It was just a hunch, something I had felt many times while ying.


    Ill find it.


    I didnt even know what it was I was supposed to find. It just urred to me that I had to find something. Sometimes, even without concrete proof, trusting my intuition and gut was the answer. No, that was the case countless times. Was it simply luck? No. This was the talent of intuition.


    [Observing with Observers Eye.]


    [The weak power of the Incantation of Salvation is assisting Observers Eye.]


    [The weak influence of the Hand of Salvation is assisting Observers Eye.]


    The abilities in my arsenal joined hands, bolstering each other.


    What do I need to find?


    I didnt know. I stood there, taking in the unknown and invisible flow around me, the energy I could sense only with my thoughts, the smell of the wind, the fragrance of the sky, the concentration of the light, the density of the crowd. The sand on the ground, the sound of honking cars, the many buildings standing along the road.


    Each of those things was one element making up a whole, the world.[Observing with Observers Eye.]


    I kept hearing that notice. It wasnt one I often heard. It was only triggered when I was focusing very intently. And this notice was telling me something.


    Focus.


    I cast my eye inward. I had the feeling that if I focused, if I <em>really </em>focused, I would be able to see a path. That I would be able to see something faint be clear.


    Focus.


    I didnt know how much time I spent like that, but when this sort of thing happened, quite a lot of time passed without me realizing it.


    Ah.


    I started to make out something I hadnt seen before. I picked up a weak flow from the rightmost of the gates three doors.


    I can feel the distortion.


    A weak distortion. A very slight irregrity I could only barely, barely see after constant observation with an Observers Eye boosted by the Incantation of Salvation.


    A distortion of power.


    I approached it, and the closer I got, the clearer it became.


    I cant let my focus be broken.


    I needed maximum concentration. Everything else faded from view.


    The smell of the wind. The fragrance of the sky. The concentration of the light. The density of the crowd. The sand on the ground. The honking cars. The many buildings standing on the road.


    I perceived none of those things. My entire being was focused on one thing, the distorted flow of power that could only be seen with Observers Eye.


    I can


    I reached out.


    ...touch it.


    In that instant, I felt something.


    [You have discovered the entrance of the Gwanghwamun Dungeon.]


    [The entrance of the Gwanghwamun Dungeon has not yet been officially generated.]


    [The Gwanghwamun Dungeons Open Beta Scenario is beginning.]


    The notices continued.


    [The scenario Early Adopter - ver. Gwanghwamun Dungeon can be progressed.]


    [Proceed with the scenario Early Adopter - ver. Gwanghwamun Dungeon?]


    Today was October 16th. Originally, the Gwanghwamun Dungeon shouldnt be open yet.


    Im in good condition.


    I was going to rest for about two days, but the situation had changed. I called Sunhwa.


    Hello?


    Sunhwa. Were moving the n forward by two days.


    Huh?


    It didnt take long to get Sunhwa to understand.


    Got it! Oppa. You have to be super careful. I trust you. Dont get hurt.


    After a round of worrying from Sunhwa, I focused my attention on the Gwanghwamun Dungeon.[Proceed with the scenario Early Adopter - ver. Gwanghwamun Dungeon?]


    Proceed.


    I entered the Gwanghwamun Dungeon. I might just be able to aplish my desired picture faster and more perfectly than originally nned.


    Inside the dungeon, I found myself on a ck field. I didnt see anything yet. It hadnt fully activated yet.


    Senia came out and went out of her way to tell me that she was starting her stream. That was her cue to begin the scenario we had nned. She said one other thing.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. The Gwanghwamun Dungeons maximum capacity is 120 people.


    That essentially meant that 120 people could challenge the dungeon at the same time. Put in another way, it also meant the dungeon was hard enough that 120 people were necessary to clear it.


    I rmend waiting here for other yers.


    I had instructed her to say this for the Guardians to hear. To show the Guardians exactly what kind of y I was doing.


    I said it in the past, didnt I?


    Like when I killed a Lycanthrope as an extremely low-level yer, and when I cleared minibosses or boss monsters


    Ill show you how I y.


    I intentionally waited a little longer, until Senia gave me a small nod. That meant a sufficient number of Guardians had entered her channel.


    Ill show you what kind of y I do.


    I would show how crazy I could make the Guardians. The pieces were aligned.


    Lets begin.


    I decided to progress the System-created Early Adopter scenario as well as the one I had created with my own two hands.

 Chapter 134

    Chapter 134


    The field was generated. A road stretched out in a straight line in front of me, the path made of rough white stones. I could activate a description for the road.


    [Kings Road]


    The path of a king. Only one with the qualification of a king may walk upon it.


    The path made of white stones stretched out in the empty darkness that surrounded it. I walked up to it.


    Kings Road.


    But I was no king. In order to be recognized as a king here, you needed a title with king in it. Such a title would only appear in the far-off future. In any case, I didnt fit the bill now.


    What should you do if there was a path for a king, but you werent a king?


    You just have to go on a different path thats <em>not </em>for a king.


    I lifted my foot and stepped onto the darkness <em>next </em>to the road. It looked like a deep abyss, but my foot touched solid ground.


    Each step I took was apanied by the sound of my footsteps.


    What a fascinating feeling.


    It felt like I was walking on empty air. The way forward looked like a dark nothingness, but strangely enough, I could walk on it.


    What a relief that I know the strat.


    The Gwanghwamun Dungeon was the dungeon you absolutely had to get through in order to quickly punch through the 30-40 phase, to the point that countless foreign yers came to Korea to challenge the Gwanghwamun Dungeon in order to efficiently pass the beginner period.


    Many yearster, the Great Explorer Jackson said this:


    <em>It appears that humans have a tendency to take the well-established path. That may be why countless yers who challenged the Gwanghwamun Dungeon walked the Kings Road.</em>


    Walking the Kings Road didnt make it impossible to clear the Gwanghwamun Dungeon. The difficulty would just increase exponentially. After all, one who wasnt a king had walked the path of a king.


    <em>Its different if you have a king title, but of course, the great majority of yers, including myself, do not have a king title.</em>


    As such, they had to go on a path that wasnt the Kings Road.


    <em>If you do not have a king title, you should walk along the darkness next to the Kings Road.</em>


    If you thought about it, it was simple. It looked like there was no path there, but there was. And that was the path I chose.


    [The Whispering Devil is regretful.]


    [The Nameless Observer is observing.]


    I was paying close attention to which Guardians were sending me messages. There was likely a pool of Guardianspeting to send me messages. Depending on who messaged me, my strategy and scenario would partially change.


    [The Conductor of Sound holds your prudence in high regard.]


    As expected, the Conductor of Sound started taking an interest in my actions. Good. This was the best scenario I had hoped for. If the Conductor of Sound showed their interest, the White Hunter would surely follow suit.


    Come.


    Sure enough


    [The White Hunter is impressed by your clearing technique.]


    The Conductor of Sound and White Hunter took the te. With the mere selection of a path, a whopping four Guardians sent me notices.


    Too bad its not five.


    Still, this was a very good start. I continued walking along the darkness next to the Kings Road, following it closely. There were no monsters nearby. As long as you didnt go onto the Kings Road, there werent any tricks to watch out for. This ce was literally just fulfilling the role of the entrance.


    I kept walking.


    I see it.


    I began to see a red lion statue and a blue lion statue. They were about five meters in size, situated on each side of the Kings Road. Lava was flowing from the red lion statues mouth, while water was flowing from the blue lion statues mouth.


    Millennium Lava and Millennium Ice Water.


    They were supposed to beva and water that had existed for a thousand years.


    [Millennium Lava]


    Lava that has flowed for a thousand years. Has a temperature of 1000 degrees.<ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    Can be collected using a special method.</li></ul>


    [Millennium Ice Water]


    Ice water that has flowed for a thousand years. Has a temperature of -1000 degrees.<ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    Can be collected using a special method.</li></ul>


    Theva was an incredible 1000 degrees, and the water was -1000 degrees. This was off topic, but the discovery of these fountains created a huge furor in the scientificmunity.


    <em>The thermodynamic minimum temperature is absolute zero, -273 degrees. -1000 degrees is something that cannot exist and cannot be defined.</em>


    In all actuality, the fact that the water was -1000 degrees already meant it wasnt water. But that ice water was flowing in a liquid state. It was impossible to scientifically exin to begin with.


    <em>We needed to correct our views. That water wasnt flowing at the scientifically established -1000 degrees, but the -1000 degrees set by the System. It is impossible to prescribe the Celsius system of measurement we use to the water with our current scientific knowledge.</em>


    The scientific dispute aside, its System setting was water. New culture couldnt be exined by science to begin with. All that was important to me was that this mysterious water would y a critical roleter.


    I walked to the lion statues.


    [Observing with Observers Eye.]


    The Kings Road ended. From here, it wasnt the Kings Road, but a regr path.


    Starting here


    I walked onto the path linked to the Kings Road. If I had messed up, I would get a notice that I had stepped onto the Kings Road.


    Not hearing a notice.


    To my relief, I hadnt stepped on the Kings Road. I stopped in front of the lion statues on either side of the path.


    [Red Lion Statue]


    [Blue Lion Statue]


    It wouldnt be clickable without any reason. The Millennium Lava and Millennium Ice Water wouldnt be here for no reason. Even though they couldnt be used now, they would definitelye into yter.


    Yep, its collectable. Though I cant get it right now.


    I observed the statues for a long time.


    [The Nameless Observer is observing you.]


    I would whip countless Guardians into a frenzy here. In the past, my actions incited the Courageous Lion King to attempt the crazy act of descending on a beginner yer in a wild rush of bad temper. That was just how much I stimted the Courageous Lion King.


    This was the stage where I would once again do that to the Guardians. I would get them crazy about me in this scenario crafted by me.


    Despite that, the Guardian I have to pay the most attention to is the Nameless Guardian.


    They were a Guardian I hadnt known about when I regressed from the future. But they were the Guardian who exerted the greatest influence on me, as well as a Guardian with enough power to stay abreast of thepetition to almost always squeeze into the five slots.


    Ill observe.


    I knew all the strategies of this dungeon. A huge amount of information had been shared on Youtube, and this hurdle was one that countless yers had ovee. In terms of theory, I knew this ce like the back of my hand. But I still took the time to carefully observe. The Observer ss was one that could see what others missed and feel what others couldnt.


    What the Nameless Observer wants to see from me


    That was clear: they wanted to see me gain something through observation. To seek and contemte the truth. The Nameless Observer would enjoy all such actions.


    [Observing with Observers Eye.]


    It didnt matter what kind of result my observation produced. To the Nameless Observer, the act of observing was of the utmost importance. I intentionally mumbled aloud, I cant see the way.


    The conclusion I reached through observation was that I could not currently collect this Millennium Lava or Ice Water. Even though that was already something I knew, it was worth confirming.


    I could hardly collect thousand degreeva or minus one thousand degree ice water with my bare hands. I continued mumbling to myself.


    I cant get it for now, so lets just move on. I need to find the path.


    I fixed my eyes on the area where the heat energy from the Red Lion Statue and the cold energy from the Blue Lion Statue wereing together, creating a harmony of yin and yang. It couldnt be confirmed with the physical eye, but I was able to detect the point of convergence with Observers Eye.


    The space was about half a meter wide. It was, so to speak, the Safe Zone, the buffer zone where you could pass through without feeling the influence of the heat and cold energy.


    There was no need to show the Guardians a scene of hesitation.


    After finishing careful observation, its time for a decisive y.


    It was pointless to frustrate them by dithering and dallying. It was important to strike a bnce between satisfying the Guardians who valued prudence and satisfying those who valued decisiveness.


    What I found amusing was that I could instinctively walk that tightrope. It just came to me unbidden. If someone asked me, How do you strike that bnce? I would have only been able to tell them, I could just do it when I tried.


    Step by step, I moved forward.


    The heat energy of the Red Lion Statue.


    The cold energy of the Blue Lion Statue.


    [Entering the Path of Harmony, where heat energy and cold energy converge in harmony past the Kings Road.]


    * * *


    * * *


    I passed the Millennium Lava and Millennium Ice Water and went inside. A bright red door greeted me like a snake opening its jaws wide.


    [Entering the Gyeonghoeru Pavilion.]


    If I had walked the Kings Road, I would have entered the Geunjeongjeon Hall instead of the Gyeonghoeru Pavilion. Going into the Geunjeongjeon Hall field at my current skill level would mean certain death.


    TN: Both the Gyeonghoeru and the Geunjeongjeon are parts of the Gyeongbokgung Pce.


    I walked into the Gyeonghoeru Pavilion.


    It wasnt the real Gyeonghoeru. It was just a new field borrowing the name of the historical building I knew. However, it did bear simrities to the Gyeonghoeru inside the Gyeongbokgung.


    Its ringed by a pond.


    It was a pce built atop a pond. The building was far bigger than the original Gyeonghoeru. I didnt know the exact dimensions, but it was probably about the size of a ser field.


    Floating on the pond was arge sailboat.


    At this size, its more of ake than a pond


    Id seen this field many times through a screen, but seeing it with my own eyes was a different experience altogether. Theke was so big you could see the horizon. The water wasnt clearit was incredibly murky, and I couldnt see the bottom.


    I asionally glimpsed fishing to the surface, creating bubbles. They were one meter long and had very sharp teeth. The name of the monster was Carnivore Mermaid, and they were around level 30.


    [The Safe Zone is being deactivated.]


    I finished checking out the field and moved to the center of the pavilion.


    If I fall into the water, Ill die.


    I had to watch my step. The Carnivore Mermaids werent incredibly high level, but as fish monsters, they were very difficult for me to hunt. Moreover, they would swarm at the smell of blood.


    [In 10 seconds, the Gyeonghoeru Scenario will begin.]


    I had prepared for a long time for this moment. I acquired Legs Rings and also fused one into my body. Not just that, but I also had Noahs Helm ready.


    My preparations are thorough.


    Now, all that was left was to make use of those preparations to achieve the result I wanted.


    [3]


    [2]


    [1]


    [The Gyeonghoeru Scenario has been opened.]


    [The Gyeonghoeru Scenario - Polluted Banquet Hall is beginning.]


    This scenario-driven dungeon, the Gwanghwamun Dungeon, began in earnest. Several shimmering spots appeared all over the pavilion, obvious enough to be visible to the naked eye.


    Theres a lot of them.


    Each of the many shimmers would spawn a monster. One by one, the monsters appeared.Polluted Lifeform LVL 33


    Zombies.


    Although they were called Polluted Lifeforms, they were basically zombies. They dragged their arms and legs as they limped towards me, showing their hostility while red saliva dripped from their mouths. They werent all that fast.


    Theres too many. This wasnt the Gwanghwamun Dungeon I knew. Its changed a little.


    200 Polluted Lifeforms were supposed to spawn here. But it was obvious at a nce that this wasnt just 200.


    Theres at least 300.


    Zombies continued to emerge through ripples in space. A disgusting stench filled the air.


    Too many.


    There were more than I expected. This was definitely a variable. But even so, I needed to clear this ce perfectly.


    Isabels ego happened to activate just then.


    (Are you <em>nuts</em>? Why did youe here alone?)


    Was I imagining it, or was Isabels acerbic voice tinged with worry, as faint as it was?


    (Are you trying to turn me into a widow?! Are you crazy? How do you n on handling this many monsters at your level?)


    Everything was okay. I became sure of it from Isabels reaction.


    If Isabel feels this way, the Guardians must be feeling the same.


    They should know as well as I that this dungeon wasnt a ce I should have entered by myself. But on the other hand, they would be filled with anticipation. How would a level 32 Observer clear a ce that could only be cleared with brute force? It could even be that someone out there was watching just to see how I would survive. However, what I wanted wasnt just to survive, but to clear.


    The method for a level 32 Observer to clear the Gyeonghoeru that was what I would be showing the Guardians.

 Chapter 135

    Chapter 135


    Crowding the pavilion were three hundred Polluted Lifeforms. But I knew that wasnt the end.


    I have to save as much stamina as possible.


    This ce wasnt called the Leveling Shrine for nothing. I had to survive this ce for a very long time and keep hunting the Polluted Lifeforms.


    I equipped an item.


    [Noahs Helm]


    Known to be the helmet that Noah, once called The Gale, enjoyed wearing in his youth. After weathering many fierce battles, it has be imbued with a special power.


    Defense: -15


    Effect:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    Hostility quantity control.</li></ol>


    Equip restriction:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    Can only be worn inside a dungeon</li><li>


    Level requirement: 30</li><li>


    Cannot be equipped in conjunction with a magician-exclusive item</li></ol>


    It lowered defense by a whopping 15. In terms of armor, this item was the worst, a piece of trash that actually increased the damage you received.


    But not here.


    The key point was that Noahs Helm had the effect of Hostility quantity control, an ability that would limit the aggro the wearer received.


    Ill be getting ten hostile enemies at a time.


    Be it three hundred, or three thousand, only ten monsters would show an inclination to attack me. That meant I only needed to pay attention to just ten monsters at any given time.


    If I only need to keep those ten in my view


    I didnt need to worry about getting attacked by any others. That would massively reduce my mental strain and minimize the urrence of variables.


    [Registering the effect of Noahs Helm.]


    [Registering the Hostility quantity control effect.]


    [!] marks appeared over the heads of exactly ten Polluted Lifeforms. They had recognized me as a target to attack; I had automatically aggroed them.


    Isabels ego was awake, but silent. If I had to guess, she was probably racking her brain to figure out how to save me.


    In any case, I was only being attacked by ten Polluted Lifeforms at a time. That was step number onegetting rid of any unpredictable variables in a mass hunt. This was the starting point.


    I spoke to Isabel. When challenging a situation that looks impossible to clear, there are a few things you can abuse.


    First: OP items.


    Second: pots.


    Third: talent.


    And fourth: luck.


    Typically, these were the big four.


    Ten Polluted Lifeforms came stumbling towards me at a slightly quicker pace, their bodies grotesquely contorted. Some of them had freakishly twisted arms and legs, almost like broken jointed dolls.


    <em>Grrrrk!</em>


    The zombies approached me while producing a chilling sound.


    ording to the results of my observation, they have high DPS but low defense.


    They looked terrifying, but they were fundamentally humanoid monsters, and humanoid monsters often had the fatal weakness of the head.


    And they have a fatal weakness.


    I swung Isabel at the Polluted Lifeform closest to me, not with the edge but the t of the de.


    <em>Bam!</em>


    A dull sound rang out.


    (Hey, you jerk! What do you think youre doing?! Youre killing my dignity here!)


    Isabel was a sword, but she was a sword with attack power higher than any club out there. As a <em>transcendent </em>grade item, her attack power was the best you could get in the early game, even higher than Asura, the King of Swords.


    One of the zombies iled an arm at me. I dodged it adroitly. After taking two steps back, I swung Isabel hard at another zombies head.


    (You YOU! YOU BULLY OF A HUSBAND!)


    I got the sense that Isabel was shrieking in my head. She was screaming something like Im not a CLUB! but it couldnt be helped.


    Sorry, Isabel.


    Her damage was definitely higher for cutting attacks, or piercing. Attacks that could maximize Isabels attack power were way more favorable when it came to damage.


    Dodge.


    Their attacks werent all thatplicated, limited to moves like iling their arms, biting, or scratching with their ws.


    I can read their movements better than expected.


    I only needed to pay attention to ten zombies, so I didnt kill them. I struck zombie after zombie with Isabel.


    <em>Bam!</em>


    I used Isabels de as a club.


    One, two, three, four.


    Good.


    The goal wasnt to kill them, but to just hit them.


    [The movements of the Polluted Lifeforms have been visibly dulled.]


    All the zombies I hit in the head became slower. They became afflicted with the sluggish status condition, which made them far easier to hunt.


    I conveyed information to the Guardians while pretending that I was talking to Isabel.


    Ill restrict the enemies using the ability of Noahs Helm


    Afterwards


    And after hindering their movements


    I would hunt them. I had to finish them off swiftly, because the moment I killed one, another Polluted Lifeform in good condition would start attacking me. With this many enemies around me, I would be constantly attacked by ten.


    I have to kill them swiftly.


    And while doing so, I had to keep tabs on my location. If I messed up and fell off the Gyeonghoeru, I would be killed by the Carnivore Mermaids. I needed to pay close attention to my location in preparation for the next aggroed zombies.


    There.


    I found a decent location, a good spot to hunt the next wave. It was a good distance away from the shore. After finding the optimal spot with Observers Eye, it was now time to use Isabels edge rather than the t of the de.


    Only


    In order to hunt them quickly, I had to undertake some amount of damage. It was inevitable if I wanted to cut down this hobbled group as quickly as possible, before fresh ones got to me.


    For the sake of speed, Ill need to sacrifice my body.


    <em>Crunch!</em>


    One of them bit into my side.


    Its okay.


    I let it attack me on purpose. I was armed with the Great Orc Warrior set right now. It did hurt quite a bit, but it wasnt unbearable.


    Ill cut the flesh to save the bone.


    I drew forth strength within me to unleash the reincarnation of Sword Path Tracing and Excellent Strike fused by Isabels innate authority.


    [Using the innate ability Sword of Insight.]


    [Sword of Insight]


    An advanced innate ability created bybining and pooling the merits of Excellent Strike and Sword Path Tracing in one ce. No matter the situation, it will lock onto the enemys weakness and deliver a powerful attack at the most vulnerable point.


    * * *


    * * *


    My sword pierced the zombies precisely in their foreheads. I went all in on attack, not even thinking about defense. This ce couldnt be cleared if you paid attention to that to begin with, at least not alone. I had to give up on defense.


    Isabels attack power and Sword of Insights weakness homing didnt betray my expectations.


    [Registering the additional effect of Legs Ring.]


    I was wearing a whole eight Legs Rings right now.


    [Legs Ring]


    A ring made by refining a topaz that holds a mysterious power.


    Defense: 1


    Effect: 2% attack damage HP absorption.


    Each one gave me 2% damage absorption. With eight rings, I was absorbing a total of 16% attack damage.


    [Using the innate ability Sword of Insight.]


    I pierced right through their foreheads again, during which one zombie dealt a heavy scratch to my arm.


    [Absorbing HP.]


    [Absorbing HP.]


    I was OK.


    [Using Healing Potion.]


    [Using Healing Potion.]


    The slotted Healing Potions and the absorption ability of my Legs Rings made it so I didnt need to pay attention to defense.


    It took just twenty seconds to hunt ten zombies.


    Its faster than I thought?


    It seemed I had underestimated Isabels attack power too much. I was hunting them quickly, but there was a downside to all this.


    [EXP cannot be acquired.]


    [Items cannot be dropped.]


    I couldnt get EXP or items. That was because I, an Observer, was doing direct hunting.


    But I didnte here for EXP or items anyway.


    Right now, I was showing the Guardians. I was showing them the worth of the content that was me, what kind of ying I could show them. I came here to show them that in person, knowing exactly that the penalty of my ss would apply.


    I continued to hunt.


    <em>Bam!</em>


    <em>Bam!</em>


    <em>Bam!</em>


    The t of Isabels de swung out as a club, showing off excellent attack power the entire time.


    [The Nameless Observer continues to observe.]


    [The Conductor of Sound is awed.]


    [The White Hunter is surprised by your fighting spirit.]


    [The Courageous Lion King is excited.]


    [The Barrier of Blue Light finds your ying method difficult to understand.]


    Five Guardians sent messages about my entric ying. My ying was surely iprehensible to the Barrier of Blue Light, a Guardian who valued defense or safety. It didnt seem like they particrly liked this method, either.


    Cant be helped.


    It was impossible to satisfy every Guardian the same way. All I could do was switch up the ying to make it suit the time and ce and capture the hearts of the majority.


    Isabel shrieked again.


    (Im not a club, darn it!!!)


    She wasnt a club, but her striking power was better than any club. She was very good. A very good club.


    As the beating continued, Isabels voice became weirder and weirder.


    (I-I cant take any more!)


    (No-Nooo!)


    (I-I said I cant take any more, you jerk!)


    Interspersed between her shrieks were moans so faint I could only hear them by listening carefully. It was like she was groaning.


    Whats wrong with her?


    I had no idea, but I kept hunting. And after a while, after I hunted about ny Polluted Lifeforms, I found out why.[Isabels ego has arbitrarily awakened a sealed innate ability.]


    The transcendent item Isabel arbitrarily unlocked her own innate ability. This could happen?[The innate ability Beat ''em, Beat ''em, Beat ''em Harder has been unlocked.]


    I doubted my ears for a moment.


    The innate ability name?


    Id never heard of such a name. Beat ''em, Beat ''em, Beat ''em Harder? For an innate ability possessed by a transcendent item, it really fell short on gravitas.


    I heard Isabel sigh.


    (In-In the end it-it was exposed.) I could feel her almost crying. (Take responsibility, you meanie. My dignity my authority!)


    With that, Isabels ego fell asleep again.


    [Beat ''em, Beat ''em, Beat ''em Harder]


    One of the innate abilities sealed by Isabel herself. Isabel has an extremely insr disposition towards martial arts or abilities other than swordsmanship. An innate ability that Isabel herself denied and forcefully sealed, Beat ''em, Beat ''em, Beat ''em Harder has a focus on striking as a blunt weapon.<ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    +70% damage when striking with the t of Isabels de</li><li>


    +14% attack speed when striking with the t of Isabels de</li><li>


    +7%bo damage when striking with the t of Isabels de</li></ul>


    Now, I understood.


    A sword that cursed its own talent. Such a thing existed?


    Apparently, the ability to beat was a shameful thing for a sword. At least, that was what Isabel thought. But the effects the ability came with were incredible.


    Wow


    Sheer damage was increased by 70%, with a 14% increase in attack speed. How could there be a <em>sword </em>with such ridiculous striking power?


    And if Ibo it


    Each additional attack would add a whopping 7% damage. The firstbo would give 7%, the second 14%, the third 21%. And if I reached a tenbo?


    Thats +70%.


    That was 70% <em>in addition </em>to the base 70% damage increase.


    Its an insane effect.


    Wasnt this way too ridiculous an innate ability to seal just for dignitys sake? This ability would push any sword into the ultimate club. Why did she seal such a thing? In any case, she was one stubborn sword.[Using Isabels innate ability Beat ''em, Beat ''em, Beat ''em Harder]


    <em>Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam!</em>


    My attacks were far faster and heavier than before.


    Isabel resumed shrieking again, her cries mixed with low groans.


    (Haah! No, not like this! NOT LIKE THIS, I SAID!)


    What the, she wasnt actually asleep, just pretending that she was? I ignored her screams. She was incredibly effective (as a club).


    This is


    It was much easier than I thought. I became more and more used to hunting the Polluted Lifeforms. I picked up their movements far better than before, and was able to urately strike their weak points.


    Theyre way weaker than I expected.


    Both from Isabels innate ability unlocking and my ability to adapt to the situation, the fight felt much easier. I was drenched head to toe in blood, but I recovered everything, so I didnt actually take any damage. I was level 32, and they were level 33. The fact I was hunting three hundred monsters one level higher than me didnt feel very burdensome.


    Its different from the strat.


    I became certain that even without the strategy, I would have been able to easily hunt these guys.


    Which means


    I needed to change my ns a little. No, I needed a full-on revision. I decided to ditch the scenario Id been drawing out so far and disy even more overwhelming force in the picture Id be drawing ahead, to crush the zombies with overwhelming strength. That was how I would clear this ce, the Gyeonghoeru. That was my number one goal.


    Wait.


    But then, a slightly different method urred to me.


    Could something like this work, too?


    I decided to try.

 Chapter 136

    Chapter 136


    For now, lets try it.


    If it worked, great. If it didnt, whatever. I had a lot more breathing room in this fight than I expected, so I could afford to give it a try.


    Noahs Helm.


    I analyzed its flow. Analyzed, aka deciphered, using Observers Eyes power to see the true nature of things.


    The unique ability flowing out of the item is


    I couldnt put it into words, but I could feel the gist of it.


    And this is how its taking effect.


    I had no idea if it would work, but I was going to try fusing one of my abilities with the items effect.


    [Using the special ability Mettle.]


    Unlike when I normally used the skill, I deciphered the true nature and flow of the skills power, observing and researching it. While I was doing so, one of the zombies buried its teeth into my arm.


    Nngh!


    <em>Grrrrk!</em>


    Like a hunting dogtching on prey, the zombie went ck, its teeth lodged deep in my arm.


    Focus.


    I was bitten, but it wasnt a fatal blow. This much I could handle, no problem. The pain of teeth ripping through my flesh, I could endure. Because there was something more important right now, something that took priority. And more honestly speaking, because I could afford to ignore it.


    The flow of Mettle.


    I examined how Mettle worked, how this special ability exerted its power on the world.


    If Ibine that flow with the unique ability of Noahs Helm


    The zombie biting my arm flinched.


    It works.


    It was difficult to pull it off in one try, but I could see that it was possible.


    If I focus, I can definitely do it.


    It would be perfect if I could pull off the Will Incantation right now, but I didnt feel the itchiness that tickled my heart whenever I did the Incantation. Unfortunately, I couldnt expect the Will Incantations power right now.


    With my strength alone


    I would make it happen. I wouldbine the two abilities in my possession to make them a little more special.


    I can do it.


    I was sure of it.


    This flow, and that one. Theyre not ipatible.


    They seemed to match well enough. The faltering zombie on my arm returned to savaging my arm, and another mped down on my leg.


    Ive got plenty of HP.


    If it came down to it, I could just use the Absorption ability fused into my body. I focused on the flow, ignoring the zombies attacks.


    I can do it.


    I heard a notice.


    [A special condition has been fulfilled.]


    [Congrattions!]


    [The proficiency of Observers Eye has increased.]


    The detailed exnation of Observers Eye automatically popped up.


    [Detailed Exnation]<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    Skill name: Observers Eye (Current proficiency: 2)</li><li>


    Skill effect:<ul data-mce-style="padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    Flow Perception: Visualize the flow of nature.</li><li>


    Action Duplication: Copy the actions of an observation target (currently cannot be used).</li><li>


    Title Duplication: Use the title and simr abilities of an observation target (currently cannot be used).</li><li>


    Ability Share: Share an ability with designated observation targets (currently cannot be used).</li></ul></li><li>


    Conditions for use:<ul data-mce-style="padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    Must possess the ability Calm Observers Eye.</li><li>


    Must be contracted with the Nameless Observer.</li><li>


    Must be in a private area set for ying.</li></ul></li><li>


    Innate ability:<ul data-mce-style="padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    Unique Ability Fusion</li></ul></li></ol>


    The proficiency went up to [2], and with it, an innate ability was unlocked.


    A skill can have an innate ability?


    Had that ever happened before? I had a good grasp on publicly known information, but I didnt know much about the World Above that belonged to the highest level Rankers. The longer I yed, the more astonishing truths I uncovered, like peeling an onion. This sort of thing might have happened in the past, but for me, it was a revtion.


    An innate ability possessed by a skill itself.


    That was what Unique Ability Fusion was. It was the ability tobine two of my abilities into one.


    [Unique Ability Fusion]


    An innate ability that discerns the flow of all abilities that fall into the unique ability category, thusbining unique ability with unique ability. However, fusion must be preceded by thorough observation.


    The ability tobine unique ability with unique ability. And it had to be preceded by thorough observation.


    That part, I had already done. I just needed to slot in thest puzzle piece. Instinctively, I manipted the new, invisible sensation to match the puzzle that was just as invisible.


    [Using the innate ability of Observers Eye, Unique Ability Fusion.]


    [Controlling the range of the special ability Mettle.]


    I was able to control the range of Mettle, setting it to only affect the ten lifeforms attacking me.


    <em>Thump!</em>


    The zombies fell over. Some of them were even pressed to the ground, like they were being crushed by a powerful gravity wave.


    <em>Grrrrrk!</em>


    They trembled uncontrobly, fully dominated by Mettle.


    In exchange for limiting Mettles range


    By limiting Mettles range, the effect was fine-tuned and amplified on the reduced number of targets. My level was 32, while theirs were 33 or 34. The highest level zombie among them was even 35.


    Originally, Mettle applied to those who are of a lower level than the user.


    [Mettle]


    Mettle is the aura of a ruler and the higher form of Pressure. It induces instinctive fear and awe in those who are of a lower level than the user.


    Despite that condition, the zombies were fully subjected to the abilitys effects. Bybining Mettle with the unique ability of Noahs Helm, I was able to use a far more effective version of the skill.


    [The Courageous Lion King is impressed by your Mettle.]


    [300 Coins have been sent as a sponsorship.]


    The goal here was to disy overwhelming skills. I was going to show the Guardians that I possessed the potent power of all things rted to observation.


    I instantly demolished the zombies crushed by Mettle, unable to resist.


    * * *


    * * *


    I hunted down all three hundred Polluted Lifeforms. A Clear Crystal spawned in the middle of the Gyeonghoeru, but I ignored it.[Polluted Lifeforms are respawning.]


    Another three hundred monsters respawned. I hunted the whole lot again. I didnt get any EXP or items, but that was fine.


    I cant clear the entire Gwanghwamun Dungeon on my own anyway.


    The only ce I could clear on my own was this field, Gyeonghoeru.


    <em>After clearing the Gyeonghoeru field seven times in session, a crystal to leave the Gwanghwamun Dungeon will appear.</em>


    This strategy was extremely famous. Because the Gyeonghoeru was the optimal ce for leveling up, the majority of yers learned about it before long.


    [Polluted Lifeforms are respawning.]


    [Polluted Lifeforms are respawning.]


    [Polluted Lifeforms are respawning.]


    After seven solo runs, a new crystal spawneda brown Clear Crystal. If I destroyed this, I wouldnt just leave the Gyeonghoeru field, but the Gwanghwamun Dungeon.


    Ive shown everything there is to show.


    I showed what I could and fully proved my qualifications. I physically showed them Im a yer with this much skill, a feat I was sure had made a deep impression on a lot of Guardians.


    Ive proven my qualifications


    I wrapped my hand over the brown Clear Crystal. It wasnt a full clear, but in any case, I was cutting my way out of this ce via soloing.


    To the Guardians, this is the big climax.


    They would send messages. Sure enough[The Nameless Observer is satisfied by their observation of you.]


    Although observation wasnt the only thing I did, and I cleared this ce by directly hunting, my performance satisfied my contracted Guardian.


    Good, next.


    I expected the White Hunter to jump forward with a message. They were the type of Guardian who went crazy for single yer battle and overwhelming force.


    [The White Hunter is greatly satisfied by your ying.]


    [300 Coins have been sent as a sponsorship.]


    If the White Hunter sent a message, the next to step forward would be the Conductor of Sound.


    [The Conductor of Sound is impressed by your deeply cautious tactic.]


    [400 Coins have been sent as a sponsorship.]


    That made three Guardians total.


    In order to hide his impatience the Shepherd Boy wont send a message.


    I was sure the Shepherd Boy wouldnt send a message so that they could keep up their unconcerned faade. My prediction was spot on.


    But little do you know, thats actually proof that youre feeling antsy.


    The Nameless Observer, the White Hunter, and the Conductor of Sound. Who would be next?[The Herdsman of Las Vegas offers a proposal.]


    He proposed clearing the Gwanghwamun Dungeon in its entirety instead of destroying the brown Clear Crystal and leaving. It was exactly what I expected from the Herdsman of Las Vegas I knew.


    I smiled inwardly, not showing it on my face.


    I knew he would do this.


    That proposal was one I could not ept. I would refuse.


    Regarding the special proposal made by the Herdsman of Las Vegas I deeply apologize, but I do not think I can ept.


    As long as I had a valid reason he could ept, the Herdsman of Las Vegas wouldnt be petty and resent me. And fortunately, I had an eptable reason at hand.


    I have realized the utility of the Red Eyes, and havee to need it.


    Of course, that was a lie. These words were just bait for the Merchant of Venice.


    The Shepherd Boy wants these Red Eyes. He has already given me a quest. Therefore, I need to leave and think long and hard about the quest I was given first.


    I was saying that a different Guardian, and a very powerful tamer-ss Guardian at that, gave me a quest first. Saying that I needed to focus on that quest first wasnt necessarily wrong.[The Herdsman of Las Vegas nods at your exnation.]


    Herdsman of Las Vegas, dont you worry. You, too, will end up galloping atop my stage. All the pieces I wanted had made their appearance. All except one.[The Merchant of Venice shows deep curiosity towards the Red Eyes.]


    As expected.


    In the picture I drew out, the stage I prepared, the final piece made its entrance atst.


    I knew the Red Eyes would be useful to me, too. But the Shepherd Boy wanted it. So what choice did I have left? Trade.


    What trade would I make with the Shepherd Boy? What kind of trade would be held between a mere yer and a powerful Guardian?


    Ive drawn the attention of countless Guardians with the battle just now.


    The White Hunter and Conductor of Sound were making gaga eyes at me right now, and I proved that I was a yer with more than enough ability to propose a trade. I had the Guardians attention and interest in my palm, which I achieved through single yer battle, soloing.


    In such a situation, even the Shepherd Boy cant do as he pleases with me.


    If I asked the Shepherd Boy to trade out of nowhere, he <em>might</em> have epted if I was really lucky, but there was a pretty high chance he would have refused. Not only that, but I would have likely been inviting his wrath. I might have even incurred a massive penalty the Ruler of the ins little temper tantrum couldnt even hold a candle to.


    But right now, its possible.


    I proved myself. I earned the right through the Guardians, the right to trade on equal standing. With so many other Guardians involved, the Shepherd Boy couldnt act as he pleased.


    Another Guardian who cherishes me, the Merchant of Venice, is proposing that I make a legitimate trade. In ordance with the Merchant of Venices will, I would like to propose a trade with the Shepherd Boy, a trade rted to the Red Eyes.


    The drawing was finishedthe dragon was painted in all its splendor. All that was left was to draw in its eye, thest stroke. The finishing touch on my grand scenario. It was time to meet the Shepherd Boy that had been dancing on my stage the entire time.


    I heard a notice.

 Chapter 137

    Chapter 137


    [The Shepherd Boy is curious about your intent.]


    He was giving me the most respect a Guardian could express, as far as I knew. He didnt get mad, nor did he browbeat me into coughing up the Red Eyes.


    Apparently, it wasnt all that difficult for a powerless yer to garner respect from a Guardian. The profit I could take away from this situation would change depending on my actions and attitude.


    I would like to look at the Red Eyes not as a simple quest item, but as an item to be traded.


    <em>Cmon, Senia. Dont be so anxious. And stop quivering your wings already. </em>I knew the Shepherd Boy was a pretty big name, but my y was justified, wasnt breaking the rules, and wasnt impudent.


    [The Shepherd Boy defers the questpletion.]


    [The Shepherd Boy sets the quest time limit to 999 years.]


    Oho.


    So this is how you want to do things?


    It could be that the Shepherd Boy already knew that I didnt need the Red Eyes.


    Hes pretending to be magnanimous in front of the other Guardians. Unconcerned.


    And yet, he wanted the Red Eyes. He just set the quest time limit to 999 years in order to avoid showing it.


    If he didnt need the Red Eyes


    Being that the situation was one that might incur the Shepherd Boys ire, he would have canceled the quest. The fact that he only changed the time limit told me that this Guardian needed the Red Eyes.


    Thank you for kindly giving me plenty of time to think.


    For now, the trade with the Shepherd Boy was a bust. To be honest, I thought Id be able to make off with a big profit here, but it didnt look like it was going to be that easy.


    In any case, Im the one holding the knife.


    And this was just my gut feeling, but it was possible that I really did need the Red Eyes.


    I didnt know yet. I just had the niggling feeling that these Red Eyes might one day be something I really needed.


    So now


    With the Shepherd Boy taking a step back, the Tome of the Divine Pastures Physique I thought I might be able to get if I manipted him nicely slipped out of my grasp, at least for now.


    TN: The Vulcan Body Tome has been changed to Tome of the Divine Fire Physique and the Venti Body Tome has been changed to Tome of the Divine Wind Physique. The Tome of the Divine Pastures Physique is another item of the same line.


    I asked Senia, If I break the Brown Clear Crystal, how will that affect the Early Adopter scenario? Will it be recognized as a clear?


    Senias wings trembled. This angel had it rough. She somehow ended up meeting me and was consigned to a fate of constant wing trembling. How many times had they trembled so far? A hundred?


    Please wait one moment, she said. Shortly after, she gave me a respectful apology. I was unable to find out.


    I could sense the words she left unsaid. Obviously because I thought it would be a normal clear. She clearly thought I would naturally be able to clear this ce no problem and leave, but I wasnt Superman.


    A little time passed. I heard a machine-like voiceing from Senias mouth. Her eyes werepletely white.


    [Scenario searching.]


    [Early Adopter is a sub-scenario.]


    [It does not have a big influence on the overall scenario.]


    [The clear can be decided by the authority of the Intermediate Administrator.]


    After saying that, Senias eyes returned to normal.


    I can decide by my authority.


    That so? I hummed. Itll be hard to get the System to recognize this as a perfect clear. I only cleared the Gyeonghoeru field, not the entire Gwanghwamun Dungeon.


    Yes. yer Kim Hyukjins words are very urate.


    Senia nodded. She had realized it, too. The System was evaluating Senias ability as an Intermediate Administrator. She had indeed grown more perceptive.


    If she recognized this as a perfect clear on ount of her close rtionship with me The System would begin to doubt Senias qualifications.


    The amusing thing was that this sort of evaluation was supposed to happen when yers were above level 40, in the mid-game. The [System evaluation of Streamers] was happening far ahead of schedule.


    Senia has picked up on it, too.


    She and I were thinking the same thing.


    I will recognize the clear. However, it will be a partial clear and the grade of the rewards will be reduced.


    I heard a notice.


    [Early Adopter - ver. Gwanghwamun Dungeon has been partially cleared.]


    [The partial clear of Early Adopter - ver. Gwanghwamun Dungeon will bring the scenario to an end.]


    The scenario was concluded. That meant the road to earn the full rewards for this scenario was permanently closed off. I would get a reduced reward in exchange.


    [Distributing rewards for the partial clear of Early Adopter - ver. Gwanghwamun Dungeon.]


    [Ancient Crown received.]


    I got a single item. It didnte with much exnation to speak of.


    [Ancient Crown]


    A crown symbolizing the authority of a king. Though it is made of glittering gold, the passing of many years has greatly aged the relic.


    Either I couldnt read theplete description with my current abilities, or it wasnt anything special.


    Not bad.


    The unexpected boon was Observers Eye going up in proficiency, through which I acquired an extremely useful card, Unique Ability Fusion. I also still had the Red Eyes.


    Though I didnt get much from the other Guardians


    Things couldnt always go my way.


    This is already a win. I decided to think positive. Ive confirmed that I can make the Guardians move as I wish. Thats enough.


    I destroyed the Brown Clear Crystal and was ported out of the Gwanghwamun Dungeon.


    * * *


    * * *


    I got back home.


    What are you<em> </em>doing?


    Sunhwa was short. She hadnt finished growing yet. Even the not-very-high sink was high for her.


    What do you think? Im pretty, right? she boasted. Oh, right. Before you went into the Gwanghwamun Dungeon, I did everything you asked me to do! I wasnt just ying the whole time, okay?! I did everything I was supposed to do, and even did all my school homework already. I only did this afterwards. Oh, and I even got praised by the teacher for being good at math today.


    ...


    Oh, right. You didnt answer me. Im pretty, right? Right? I am, right?


    She was just in a scruffy t-shirt and shorts. But on top of that was an apron with a bunny on it.


    As I stood there, I wondered what to praise as pretty to avoid hurting her feelings when all I could see was a kid rather than a woman. By my standards, being pretty and being cute were twopletely different things. Though, well, it kind of felt like I was looking at my niece rather than my little sister.


    Uh Very cute.


    Thankfully, Sunhwa was fully absorbed in the act of making fried chicken, so she didnt pay much attention to my response.


    So youre saying youre not satisfied with restaurant-bought fried chicken, so youre making it yourself?


    Yes!


    She went on to say she learned the method somewhere. In any case, she was extremely excited. The prospect of delicious chicken made her genuinely happy.


    State: Genuine Happiness


    Summary: Fried Chicken-Loving Brocon


    I did think it was good that she could derive such happiness from such a small thing. The summary was still as strange as ever.


    Darong. Tongs, Sunhwa said with familiar ease.


    To my amusement, Darongi was actively cooperating with her. He scampered towards her lugging tongs far bigger than his body on his back. He could use his Inventory, but nope. He was clearly a clever idiot.


    Oppa. Just wait a little. Ill make some super delicious fried chicken.


    ...Okay, do your best.


    For some reason, I didnt feel much anticipation. When I observed the mess in the kitchen with Observers Eye, it looked like there was zero chance that delicious fried chicken would be the result. Sorry, but that was the result of my observation. I still decided not to cruelly crush my little sisters dream.


    Ill go wash up.


    Sunhwa was so focused on fried chicken making that she didnt even hear me. On the way to the bathroom, I made an order at the fried chicken restaurant.


    Unfortunately, my Observer eyes told me very clearly that Sunhwas fried chicken wouldnt be tasty. She was definitely producing something more special. I ordered out in advance so that I could just tell her to eat the restaurant chicken and not be too disappointed.


    I turned on the hot water. It poured out in a steamy deluge. This, too, was a novel luxury. When we were living partially underground, we rarely turned on the hot water to save on heating fees. The feeling of being able to simply entrust my body to the heat without worrying about the cost was amazing.


    Home.


    This home, I wanted to protect.


    Why did the Centipede Cave open in the central park in front of our house?


    It was the same gate as the one on Plum Blossom Ind. I hadnt found the reason yet. It was a puzzle I still hadnt solved.


    That was an event from the past. The most imminent event from the future I knew was the official opening of the Gwanghwamun Dungeon.


    The Gwanghwamun Dungeon is going to open properly soon.


    What I experienced was an Open Beta.


    Inside the Gwanghwamun Dungeon, in the Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, we need to grind to level 40.


    There, the big question would be decided once and for all. Was I an early bloomer yer, or a real genius capable of continuous growth?


    It was easier than I thought.


    I managed the fight more easily thanks to Isabels innate authority. My Absorption ability and 8 HP absorption rings also yed a big role. Because my preparations were soplete, clearing the Gyeonghoeru was extremely easy. The actual difficulty I experienced was far lower than what I imagined.


    Ill be able to pull it off no problem with the others, too.


    At that time, I could maintain the Observer position and maximize our EXP gain. We would hit level 40 faster than anyone else and reach the mid-game. The scenarios would start getting a bit more diverse from there onwards.


    I finished washing up. Sure enough, Sunhwas fried chicken wasnt tasty.


    Thats weird. I thought it would be tasty.


    Darongi was being a Karen. He stomped his feet, clearly saying, Hand over the tasty chicken right this instant! Thankfully, the chicken I ordered was delivered just in time.


    Sunhwa and Darongi satisfied their fried chicken desire with the box I ordered. I had two chickens delivered, but the two of them polished it all off.


    You done?


    Sunhwa and Darongi nodded vigorously. It was hard to tell which one was the human and which one was the squirrel.


    Were gonna have a short meeting, so call all the others.


    Got it.


    We really needed an office somewhere. It would also be good to have an official guild name. You could call it preparation for the mid-game.


    For now, we met at the yers Association. I also had something to tell Song Kiyeol, so that was the ideal meeting ce. We were definitely not meeting there because we didnt have an office yet.


    So Yoohyun. Choi Sung-gu. Jo Sunghyun. Shin Yeonseo. Kim Sunhwa. And me.


    Typically, parties were made up of six yers.


    For the beginner period this roster is more than good enough.


    If we were short anywhere, we could just enlist the cooperation of Taeguk Shield. But for now, this was the perfectposition for me to maximize efficiency while ying the sovereign role.


    Though it would be helpful if we had Ahn Seohyes barrier, if possible.


    It was too early for that. Seohye needed a lot of time to put up her barrier.


    We borrowed a meeting room on the 3rd floor of the yer Center.


    Were going to discuss the Gwanghwamun Dungeon.


    Huh? How do you know about it, boss?


    Ive already been there.


    Seriously? No way, you soloed it?


    Yeonseos eyes went wide. Sung-gu shook his head.


    Now hes just soloing dungeons, huh? Is he even human? Hah, I hate this guy.


    I ignored Sung-gus nonsense and continued exining. We wouldnt clear the whole Gwanghwamun Dungeon. Our n was just to grind and reach level 40 as quickly as possible.


    Sunghyun hesitantly spoke up. But Hyung.


    Hm?


    Yoohyun was shouting, Long live Hyungnim!, and Sung-gu was loudlyining. Yeonseos eyes were sparkling as she said, Thisll be fun, and Sunhwa was looking forward to the dungeon along with Yeonseo.


    As expected. I knew Sunghyun would express his doubts.


    He was indeed the Typhoon I remembered. He was capable of calmly and quietly assessing the situation.


    Is our only goal to level up?


    Sung-gu flinched at that. What the, is there some kind of hidden trap or something?


    I gazed at Sunghyun with eyes of slight satisfaction. He was still just a high schooler. Our future Typhoon was growing very nicely.


    No, its not. If that were the case, I wouldnt have picked this ce to meet.


    Of course, there was the teensy matter of not having our own office, but anyway, that wasnt the whole reason. Really.


    Sung-gu asked, Eh? Werent we meeting here because we didnt have an office?


    ...No.


    Sunghyun red daggers at Sung-gu. Can you please shut up for a moment, Hyung? Hyukjin hyung is talking.


    Oi. You wanna go for real?


    Thats exactly what I wanted.


    Oi. You were like pissing yourself in fear in front of my me Whipst time. Dont you remember?


    You could make a living off writing novels.


    These two were squabbling more and more as time passed, it seemed. Well, it didnt matter. As soon as the raid began, they were the ultimatebo anyway.


    In any case, the goal isnt just to level up.


    Super fast leveling and hitting the mid-game were naturally big goals, but we had another goal in addition to those.


    Our other goal


    From here on out, we had to adapt to the new culture age with yet another method.


    Just then, there was a knock, and I shrugged.


    ...is this.


    I had long since sensed the presence behind the door with Eye of Perception, and timed my words perfectly.


    Pleasee in.


    Someone entered the meeting room. Sunhwa had ryed the invitation nicely. Yoohyun and Sung-gus eyes widened.


    Th-That person is!


    Yeonseo cocked her head. What? Who is he? Do you know him too, Boss?


    Of course I did. If he didnt show up here, I would have gone to meet him.


    I greeted him first.


    Its been a while, sir.

 Chapter 138

    Chapter 138


    We were meeting for the first time in a while. The person who entered was President Song Kiyoung, one of the people who created the current South Korea, and the head of the global conglomerate, Sungshin. The living legend of Korea who went from nothing to creating the Sungshin of today.


    I activated Eye of Perception.


    [yer]


    Name: Song Kiyoung


    Age: 68


    Level: 31


    ss: [Golden Sovereign]


    Guardian: [Golden-Horned Dokkaebi]


    Innate ability: [Charisma] [Pressure]


    State: Interest / Curiosity / Respect


    Disposition: Progressive / Neutral


    Summary:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    Magnanimous Man of Reasonable Doubt</li><li>


    Doting Grandparent</li></ol><ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    The disposition/state/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li>


    Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    How fun.


    It was more fun than surprising. In the past, Song Kiyoung concealed the fact that he was a yer. He did so now as well.


    And his level is 31.


    That number made me fairly certain he hadnt leveled up with regr hunting. His ss was Golden Sovereign, and he probably leveled all the way to 31 using some kind of method that suited the ss. There was no way a person as famous as Song Kiyoung could have secretly raised his level that high with normal raiding. There was something I didnt know.


    To think hes got such innate abilities and reached that level at 68 years old.


    His Status was unbelievable when we first met, and even more unbelievable now. Typically, your talent tes would slowly start closing at 20. ording to public knowledge, before I regressedso when I was 30 years oldmy talent tes were almostpletely closed. But President Song reached level 31 even though he was 68 years old.


    His talent halo must be insane.


    He had to be insanely talented, a genius among geniuses whose talent tes didnt close with age. There was no other way he could achieve such a level at his age. It was, simply put, in the realm of the impossible.


    If not that, then hes getting his Guardians utmost support.


    And that utmost support was bound to require some kind of sacrifice, be it a huge amount of Coins or something else.


    No way.


    Three years from now, Song Kiyoung would die at 71 years old.


    But he looks healthy now.


    His death was considered a sudden, unexined death. I stared probingly at President Song.


    It could be that the President was offering his own life in exchange for his growth. And that he didnt know that.


    It could be connected to the Golden-Horned Dokkaebi.


    For now, I decided not to think too deeply about it. The conversation would get long, and I needed to focus on the current situation.


    ...As such, I would like to trade this information for an appropriate price.


    It went without being said, but[The Merchant of Venice is watching with interest.]


    The trade lover, the Merchant of Venice, made an appearance.


    ...The Gwanghwamun Dungeon will open, and clearing that ce will enable one to level up as quickly as possible?


    Yes. The majority of yers will choose to raise their levels that way. Though of course, there are those who will not.


    I stared at President Song, but he didnt even flinch. His poker face was unshakeable. He responded tranquilly, I see. How interesting.


    Song Kiyoung cast his gaze my way. He didnt try to intimidate me with Charisma or Pressure like before.


    He went on to say calmly, I will need a little time.


    * * *


    * * *


    President Song Kiyoung entered the conference room, once again recalling the man hed just seen.


    He was astonishing back then, too.


    Kim Hyukjin was the first youth to remain calm and upright before his Charisma and Pressure, and it wasnt just the mettle of a man in his prime.


    But now, hes grown even more explosively.


    Normally, when he looked at someone, he could see their dormant power. He could get a sense of how much they would grow, and how much they had already grown. He could tell with a nce.


    Hes not the same man he was.


    At one point, he wanted to turn Hyukjin into his hunting dog. But after meeting him in person, Song Kiyoung needed topletely scrap that thought.


    Ive just met Kim Hyukjin.


    Song Kiyeol was startled. Was his grandfather not satisfied with him, somehow? Did he make a mistake in interacting with Kim Hyukjin?


    No. If I made a mistake, he would have punished me himself.


    Be it direct or indirect, his grandfather would have expressed his displeasure in one way or another. There was definitely a different reason why his grandfather met Hyukjin.


    He proposed an interesting trade.


    What the young man was offering was information on the Gwanghwamun Dungeons opening and the method within that dungeon to level up rapidly.


    Does it happen to be rted to the Gwanghwamun?


    How did you know?


    One of my guild members has the ability to see the future. She sees the future in the form of precognitive dreams.


    President Song Kiyoung looked at his grandson with amusement. I see. What did she see?


    Kiyeol handed over a slip of paper.


    This is how the Precognitive Dreamer described what she saw in the precognitive dream.


    The note was as follows:


    <em>Three doors. A king walks the Kings Road.</em>


    <em>In front of the kings path, he shall suspect the river of baptism.</em>


    She saw the Gwanghwamun in her dream, and in that dream, the doors of the Gwanghwamun were pitch ck. Past those doors was a great deal of ominousness.


    It was all iprehensible.


    Kings path? King? River of baptism? Suspect?


    Yes. We are also working on deciphering it.


    Fine. The precognitive dream aside, what kind of trade with Kim Hyukjin do you think would be best?


    Kiyeol tensed. He knew his grandfather already had an answer in his heart. This was a test for him.


    I believe the moment calls for investment rather than trade.


    Investment?


    Yes. In light of the events so far, Kim Hyukjin is far from an ordinary yer.


    ...


    An eye that can see the future. Vast knowledge. Tactics making use of his eye and knowledge. Ah. By tactics, I mean his ability as a sovereign.


    President Song nodded.


    Sovereign. He was familiar with the term. He just didnt show it outwardly. After all, he hadnt told anyone that he was a yer. Not even his beloved grandson.


    There is a very high possibility that the information in his possession will elevate Sungshin to the very top in the new culture age. To be more precise, not Sungshin, but Taeguk Shield.


    His information can make Taeguk Shield the best guild?


    That will be one of the major driving forces in pushing Sungshin to the top.


    President Song let out a breathyugh.


    And? Cut to the conclusion. What do you think should be done?


    Kim Hyukjin is already getting most of what he needs through Taeguk Shield. But those are almost entirely things rted to ying. I believe investment is still required in areas unrted to ying.


    Areas unrted to ying. In other words, his day to day life.


    Kim Hyukjin does not currently have an office.


    Hecked both an office and a car. Kiyeol knew that Hyukjin was experiencing some slight difort.


    I think that rather than just offering money, arranging things like an office and a car, matters he would find troublesome to deal with on his own, would make a good investment.


    You want to set up an office for him?


    Yes. But it will require significant movement on Sungshins part.


    How much?


    It is my opinion that we must invest as proactively as possible.


    An old, shabby building was out of the question. A nice, big structureideally an entire buildingwas best, preferably downtown. A building located smack dab in a ce frequently visited by many people.


    That will be a token proving in the future that Sungshin and Kim Hyukjins team have a close-knit rtionship.


    A building? You want to invest a building for mere hunting information? Come to your senses, Kiyeol.


    Feigning anger, President Song sent out his grandson. Then, he sat down. He acted like he was angry, but he was actually in a good mood.


    His scope has expanded.


    Kim Hyukjin wasnt a simple hunting dog. If he had to say, Hyukjin was a hunter whose skill had no equal. Even his keen eyes could not judge the extent of Hyukjins dormant power.


    The fact that Kiyeol is that close to Kim Hyukjin means


    His grandson was building up an excellent working rtionship with Hyukjin, a man who wasnt just shocking, but downright terrifying. It was surely a feat to be praised.


    He might even be better than Junghye in some ways.


    He thought of his second-oldest granddaughter, who had a level mind and a straightforward personality. However she might be as a person, he believed she was certainly more suited to lead thepany than Kiyeol. Sungshin would be hers.


    But that conviction began to shake a little in his heart.


    Kiyeols insight. Taeguk Shield of the new culture age. And the huge variable called Kim Hyukjin.


    Even President Song did not know how those three things would influence Sungshins session. However


    Theres no need to settle on Junghye just yet.


    His grandson Song Kiyeol entered the running. As he sat on his chair, President Song Kiyoung heard a notice.[The Merchant of Venice has begun to focus on you.]


    It was followed by another notice.[The Golden-Horned Dokkaebi is wary of Guardians from other servers.]


    President Song Kiyoungs future also changed.


    * * *


    In the end, the Gwanghwamun Dungeon opened. The current situation was in line with what happened in the past.


    When the Gwanghwamun Dungeon opened, yers were reluctant to enter it.


    Dungeons were dangerous. Even if you managed to clear it, it didnt make you instantly rich. And in the past, the breaks of the Seoul Station Dungeon and U-Plex Dungeon caused a huge loss of life. It was natural to fear dungeons.


    Hyukjin examined the front of the Gwanghwamun Dungeons entrance.


    Theres been far fewer deaths than back then, but


    The yers were even more cautious. Not a single yer showed an inkling of desire to entire the Gwanghwamun Dungeon first. They were merely watching.


    Huh? Isnt that the Tutorial Enders party?


    Shin Yeonseos also there!


    Where? Where?


    The term Sword Empress crushers hadnt been coined yet, but Shin Yeonseo crushers was slowly picking up heat.


    Wow Did you just see her smile? It was seriously a KO, man.


    Oi, oi. Watch your mouth. Whatll you do if she sends you a PVP request?


    Yoohyun and Yeonseo became the talk of the crowd. Gong Jinhoon of Taeguk Shield and the yers Association employees were blocking off the entrance.


    But did you hear? Apparently, theres someone who got a [No Talent] evaluation in that party.


    No way, as if.


    No, really. My friend saw it for real. He was there.


    Then he wouldve been cut from the party. If hes got no talent.


    You think so? Yeah, youre right, I guess.


    The subject of their gossip, the purported [No Talent] Kim Hyukjin, faced his party.


    Were going in first. Dont forget what I told you. Were only clearing the Gyeonghoeru. Understood?


    Yeonseo smiled brightly. Doing things with our boss is the best. When I raid with other parties, I often feel too anxious or frustrated.


    Shabam, dont even lie. You dont raid. Whyre you pretending like you raid when youre off doing PVPs all day long? I feel like you hit me like three million times, seriously.


    Hyukjinughed. From the looks of it, Yeonseo and Sung-gu had a PVP match, too. In all actuality, the chance for Sung-gu to win a 1 vs. 1 PVP against Yeonseo was as close to 0 as you could get.


    His party entered the Gwanghwamun Dungeon. They followed his lead and reached the Gyeonghoeru Pavilion in the same way hed already traversed.


    [Entering the Path of Harmony, where heat energy and cold energy converge in harmony past the Kings Road.]


    [Entering the Gyeonghoeru Pavilion.]


    [In 10 seconds, the Gyeonghoeru Scenario will begin.]


    It was exactly the same asst time.[10][9]


    .


    .


    .[2][1]


    [The Gyeonghoeru Scenario has been opened.]


    [The Gyeonghoeru Scenario - Polluted Banquet Hall is beginning.]


    What ensued was a battle between two groups. Hyukjin used the favor granted by the Conductor of Sound and cleared the field with his party mates.


    Theres no doubt.


    It was easier than he thought. When he was alone, the Legs Rings were crucial, but right now, he was part of a party. They could defeat the horde even without help from his rings.


    Yoohyun gave out a bellowing cry.


    Oryaa!


    A Polluted Lifeforms head was sted to smithereens. Sticky blood gushed from the smashed head, followed by an incredible stench. Sung-gu and Sunghyun worked together to instantly clear out the zombies. The smell of cooking meat wafted up, clearing the disgusting stench.


    After some time, Hyukjin heard the long-awaited notice.[Level increased.]


    This was the fastest leveling method in the level 30-40 Hell Phase. Right now, he wasnt directly hunting, but participating in the battle as an Observer.[Current level: 33]


    He was now level 33. This could be considered an incredible leveling speed.


    While they were grinding away, Senia began to distort with the tell-tale signs of server overload.

 Chapter 139

    Chapter 139


    <em>Bzzt bzzzt!</em>


    Static suddenly filled the air, and Senias body started to fade and reappear repeatedly. Her body broke into particles, diffusing like water paint given water, before snapping back into position.


    I had already experienced this phenomenon before. The server overload that urred back when I was picking my Guardian was happening a second time.


    What the? I thought with puzzlement. She told me back then that she invested in a server expansion. Does that mean so many Guardians are watching that even her upgraded server cant handle it?


    That was the only way I could interpret it.


    What about Neptune or Roa? I asked.


    Yoohyuns Streamer, Neptune, and Yeonseos Streamer, Roa. Neptune remained invisible, while Roa appeared.


    A server overload? How envious.


    The pixie was about 150 centimetres tall and had four pairs of transparent wings on her back. As was apt for a pixie, her wings gave off a constant shower of mystical dust.


    Tada! Please wee to the stage the giant pixie, R-O-A!


    In her hand was something Roa herself called a magic wand. It looked almost like a lollipop.


    Oh! yer Kim Hyukjin. You seem to have noticed this new magic wand I have? You have sharp eyes.


    She covered her mouth with a hand with an ohoho, looking extremely happy.


    What do you think? Its brand new!


    ...


    I vaguely remembered hearing that Roa was obsessed with her new magic wand. It wasnt important, so I just told her it was pretty.


    Hehe. If she had this brand new magic wand, Senia wouldnt have gotten a server overload.


    The magic wand includes a server expansion function?


    Hmph! Its a secret~


    ...


    If youre curious, sign an exclusive contract with me. Ill pay the penalty! Im ri~ch!


    Roa grinned wide at me, trailing sparkling pixie dust. Come to think of it, she really was giant for a pixie. Normally, they were about the size of a palm.


    If thats too hard, then how about just giving me the filming rights for a moment? Illpensate you for 120% of the penalty!


    Senia was being kicked out via server overload. She would probably be locked out for the time being.


    Haah.


    Senia, you frustrating Streamer. I thought she grew a lot, but she still had a long way to go.


    You have to invest to reap the profit.


    Seeing as she was experiencing server overload, Senia hadnt been able to make a big investment yet. My faith in her had been growingtely, but it seemed I couldntpletely trust her yet. Still, this was actually a good thing.


    A lot of Guardians must be going crazy with frustration right now.


    They must want to see my ying, but I could only be seen through Senia.


    Once in a while is fine.


    It would have the opposite effect if it happened frequently, but letting the Guardians simmer like this wasnt a bad thing. It was basically an unintentional Sudden Cut. Though for the Guardians, it was closer to a Sudden Cliffhanger.


    Plus, the current situation wasnt my fault. I didnt need to go out of my way to vite my contract with Senia.


    Sorry. I cant say yes to viting the contract.


    Dont overplicate things. A lot of Guardians want to see you. I just have to stream you for a moment. Like I said, Ill cover the penalty!


    She was offering to pay the penalty without even asking how much it was.


    Must be because shes confident shell still make a profit by streaming me for a short time, even after paying the penalty.


    Her bold action was informed by such a judgment. As expected of the future famous Streamer Roa.


    No can do. The Guardians who watch me value loyalty.


    There were only a few of them, but the Guardians made the best excuses.


    Cmon, what do I have to do?


    You can do anything and my answer will still be no.


    Ill strip if you tell me to! Just for a moment! Everyonell be happy if you have fun with me for just a moment!


    ...


    Somehow, there was something very off about her words, so I ignored her and turned to my party members.


    Well continue as weve been doing, clear this ce, and leave. If we keep clearing the field, we can leave. As I said before.


    Sunhwa smiled brightly at me. Because our goal is the Gyeonghoeru!


    Yes. We would keep clearing the Gyeonghoeru, and the Gyeonghoeru only. That was our goal.


    * * *


    * * *


    We cleared and re-entered the Gyeonghoeru three times in a row, after which we decided to take a short break at arge caf in the vicinity of the Gwanghwamun.


    Yeonseos smile reached her eyes. Boss. That ce is a real jackpot. I was starting to go mad from the crazy slow leveling speed. She stealthily ced a hand on my shoulder. As expected, getting to know Boss Hyukjin is my lifes greatest fortune.


    The culprit behind the Sword Empress crushers, the future Sword Empress, a dazzling smile, was sent my way.


    While were at it, why dont you just marry me?


    ...


    This girl. Everything about her was great, but her propensity for nonsense was the one kicker. Why did she suddenly jump from fortune to marriage?


    Its a good thing Isabels asleep.


    If she was awake, her explosive jealousy would have been a hot potato to handle.


    Sunghyun said in a small voice, Hyung. Ive already hit level 33.


    Shabam? Whats that my ears hear? 33? Only? Even though Im level 34? Shabam? Aint you a weakling?


    Sung-gu gloated, his lips curling into a smile so wide that all his white teeth were on disy. Of course, Sunghyun utterly ignored him, looking for all the world as if Sung-gu were empty air and he was only talking to me.


    As I thought.


    We were all experiencing a frightening leveling speed.


    Hyungnim, Yoohyun said. Are you really going to share this strategy with the yers Association?


    Yeah. Weve already agreed to trade.


    I would share this strategy. Id already made arrangements with President Song, and had fully proven its worth.


    Itll be revealed one day anyway.


    There was nothing to lose from publicizing it a little earlier. Moreover, the entire yer base was weaker than it should be right now. We needed to pull up the average abilities of the yers. I could make a profit from a strategy that would be well-known anyway, and also promote the safe leveling of my fellow yers.


    And. This was the really important part. The yers without talent cant go past level 40, anyway.


    Why that was the case was never scientifically elucidated. The world just knew by experience. Those with no talent for ying could not exceed level 40, no matter what they did. As sad as it was, that was reality. A cruel reality I, someone who was once given a [No Talent] evaluation, knew all too well.


    Even if I share the strategy, only those who can carry it out will do it, and only those who can grow will grow.


    Yoohyun sped his hands, looking like he was about to offer a devoted prayer. However, the fact his hands were as big as cauldron lids made him seem quite threatening instead. Getting hit by those hands was almost like taking a hit from Thors hammer.


    Hyungnim!


    Yoohyuns eyes reddened.State: Trust / Faith / Respect / Admiration


    What brings this on all of a sudden?


    I felt Yoohyuns state all too clearly with Eye of Perception, which meant his feelings were just that strong and sincere.


    The great and sublime decision Hyungnim has made for the continued sess of this country, the wellbeing of the yers, and the Korean servers infinite growth shall bring you innumerable praise and exaltation!


    ...


    Sunhwa pursed her lips a little. But still, its kind of a shame to share such a strategy. Though I cant say no since Oppa decided it


    Yeonseo nodded as well. Yeah. Actually, only someone as generous as Hyukjin could bring themselves to publicize this sort of thing. Its basically mass producing rivals.


    The usually quiet Sunghyun shook his head with a serious expression. No, Yeonseo noona is thinking about it the wrong way.


    Hm? How so?


    The part about mass producing rivals. Sunghyuns expression was as earnest as ever. Not a single trace of joking air could be found on his face. Hyukjin hyung has confidence.


    Confidence?


    Because his confidence that no one will be able to beat him no matter what crucial strategy he shares is unshakeable, hes just being merciful to the weak.


    Sunghyun seemed to have judged my decision as an act of magnanimity rather than one of kindness. It really wasnt anything that grandiose. He stared at me.


    Right, Hyukjin hyung?


    ...


    This strategy was going to be well-known anyway, so I was just selling it a little ahead of schedule. But I could hardly say that in front of Sunghyuns earnest eyes, so I just gave a small nod.


    Right as I was receiving his burdensome gaze, Senia appeared.


    I apologize. There was a server overload.


    I know.


    I waited for Senia. There was something I had to discuss with her.


    Senia. Come chat with me a little.


    ...Understood.


    Senia and I moved to a slightly more private table, during which a bunch of people snuck nces at her. I was already very familiar with the sight.


    Server overload happenedst time, too.


    The recent Gyeonghoeru strategy has produced a huge mor among the Guardians.


    Thats only natural. Were leveling extremely quickly during a period where leveling is so hard. I told you theyd go wild.


    ...


    Senias wings fluttered once. She did seem a little flustered, like she hadnt thought so many Guardians would flock to her channel.


    I dont know how many Guardians went into your channel.


    ...


    But I do know that even more Guardians wille over in the future. Thats a fact.


    We only cleared one part of the Gwanghwamun Dungeon, just the Gyeonghoeru. Once we were in the mid-game and started getting into the Main Scenario, the number of Guardians would swell even more.


    Currently, I have the 1st server expansion. To get the 2nd server expansion she trailed off.


    Youll need a really huge investment, right?


    ...Yes.


    And that investment is so big that itll put a considerable strain on your current finances.


    ...


    But that doesnt mean its impossible. You should be able to do it. Though itll be tough.


    ...


    Senias wings quivered nonstop. The intense fluctuation in her emotions allowed me to read her state.State: Shock / Slight Fear


    She was probably feeling a little afraid because I was reading her inner thoughts like a book. Dont worry, I wont eat you.


    Senia.


    Yes.


    By this point, weve developed a pretty trusting rtionship, no?


    Senias wings betrayed her emotions again. Was I wrong? I didnt just take advantage of her the whole time, did I? No, I was pretty nice to her, in my own way.


    Senia said curtly, I believe there is plenty of trust, business-wise.


    Well, however you wanna put it. You and I are content creators. I didnt make it on my own, and you didnt stream it on your own. We make the content together.


    Yes.


    I have confidence in the content I create. Im confident I can figure out what the Guardians want to see better than anyone, and certain I have more than enough methods and tricks to satisfy their desires.


    ...


    You need to have as much confidence in your content as I have in mine. If I dont have confidence in myself, who will recognize my worth?


    You only got as much as you put in.


    I dont know what kind of situation youre in, I continued.


    I didnt know how a kid with zero sense, skills, or knack for talking ended up bing an Intermediate Administrator. With her looks, there should have been a myriad of other routes she could have taken instead.


    But you need to invest in server expansion. Theres no gain without loss.


    Yes, of course, but


    I stared at Senia for a moment. She was expressionless, but I thought I could glimpse a trace of awkwardness there. She probably had circumstances I didnt know about.


    Invest in the server extension. If it results in a loss, Illpensate you. Ill even sign a contract.


    ...What?


    Thats how much confidence I have. In the value of the yer that is me.


    ...


    Senias wings trembled again.


    If youre not confident, then trust me and follow.


    It would be hard to find a Streamer as easy to manipte as her. Senia thought for a long time. After a while, she began to speak.


    I think what you said about the content being something we make together had a big impact on me.


    ...


    The meaning of the word together, I feel keenly. I never even imagined I would hear a yer tell me to trust and follow. And from a yer in the beginner period, no less.


    I couldnt put it into words, but Senias expression changed. She was suddenly much more talkative than usual. It felt like Id never heard her talk so much before.


    Its fascinating. I feel like there is strength in yer Kim Hyukjins words.


    Her face was definitely expressionless, but there seemed to be more vigor in it than before.


    I will work to create content together with yer Kim Hyukjin.


    It was like she was being lifted by an updraft, like she was finding her confidence. Right now, she looked fully capable of pulling the trigger on a bold investment.


    But just then, I suddenly got a message.[The Arrow-Shooting Cupid has begun to focus on you.]


    Wait. Was she <em>streaming </em>right now?


    When it rains, it pours. A different voice began ringing in my head at the same time. Isabel had woken up.

 Chapter 140

    Chapter 140


    Isabels words were almost shocking.


    (Hubby. Wanna die?)


    Wow. Hubby, wanna die? was a new one for me. I was a person from 2028. That was the sort of thing youd hear in an early 2000s webnovel, a phrase from thirty years ago. Hubby. Wanna die? All the hair on my body stood on end.


    ...


    I was speechless. What was I supposed to call Isabel? An ancient famed de? A transcendent artifact rted to the Queen of the Sword Forest?


    (Im your bride. You idiot!)


    Right, right, she was my bride. She was my bride, and I was her bride. But at the same time, I was her hubby? I really didnt get it. We had a very curious family tree, but in any case, that was how the System put it.


    (What do you think youre doing to that annoying angel?!)


    I didnt do anything. We were just conducting business.


    (Sure, business. You say that, but whys she got so much goodwill towards you? Keep your hands in your pockets, will you?!)


    Her voice mored in my head like a storm. Like I said, I didnt do anything.


    (No. You definitely did. That angels state is emotional-touched-wonder-awe right now! Are those eyes of yours for show? Shes totally fallen for you!)


    That was just because her eyes were opened to the investment I rmended. She glimpsed the business blueprint we would be making together.


    (No! You dum dum! This is why men are just!)


    The intangible energy amplified and crashed down on me. Her presence was even more forward and powerful than when she used her innate authority. I couldnte up with a response. I was really just doing business, and the Arrow-Shooting Cupid just showed an interest in that for some reason.


    I felt Isabel trembling with anger. The de in my Inventory actually shook.


    (I see that cupid bastard is still alive. I hate him. Hate him to death. In any case, hes no help.)


    I didnt know the depths of Isabels ability. She was able to read a message sent to me. She even knew the Guardians identity.


    (Of course. Im your bride. Husband and wife are one being, so the messages you get, I get, too. Thats what the Sword Pactwhatever. If you cheat on me, youre dea!)


    Before she could finish, Isabel fell asleep again.


    Shes definitely more fired up than when she was using her innate authority.


    Her waking time was way shorter than usual. The fact the egos waking time was super short despite receiving the power of the Powerful Wish meant Isabel had expended that much energy.


    Good thing shes a sword.


    If she was a person, things might have gotten really, really tiresome.


    Ah


    Why did it suddenly bother me that the Queen of the Sword Forest and Isabel shared the same name?


    It cant be that the artifact named Isabel is actually the Queen of the Sword Forest, or something like that, right?


    How could a sword be a person? Even ten yearster, nothing like that had happened. At this point in time, it wasnt anything I needed to think about.


    Whyd the Cupidplicate things by sending a message? Haah.


    I definitely heard the notice.[The Arrow-Shooting Cupid has begun to focus on you.]


    If you were to ask me why I didnt think that I might be getting streamed, it was actually because I didnt think of our conversation as that important. It was like noting that a few stones were on the ground, or that a few cars passed me. It wasnt important information, just a part of the humdrum of life, so I didnt pay particr attention to it. Yes. You could just see it as Just because.


    The problem is that the Arrow-Shooting Cupid has appeared.


    This Guardian was one that people called the Cupid for short. Once you were targeted by this Guardian, things would get very troublesome.


    Hes famous for causing mischief between lovers.


    The Courageous Lion King was, as his name suggested, a courage lover. He went wild for courageous ying. The Lady of the Scales liked just yers. The Merchant of Venice gave high marks for outstanding trades. Each Guardian had their own quirks, unique to them.


    The Arrow-Shooting Cupid was a Guardian who liked quarrels between lovers. To that effect, he gave quests and even used his authority as a Guardian.


    What a pain.


    So did that mean he would give a lot of sponsorship? No, not even. It wasnt that he didnt give sponsorships, but he was somewhat of a scrooge.


    Please, just dont do anything pointless.


    Sometimes, the Arrow-Shooting Cupid would use his special ability, the Arrow of Love, to stir up trouble between couples. Sometimes, he even led a few hapless victims to their destruction.


    His ability can be really fatal for kids with tofu mentalities like Sunhwa.


    There was an incident where a fairly famous yer in the US named Alex came out suddenly, revealing that he was gay. Up to that point, he was a perfectly happy heterosexual, but he suddenly became a homosexual. Whether it was true or not, many people said it was a trick of the Arrow-Shooting Cupid.


    Hes also a pervert who tries to induce incestuous rtionships.


    For example, he would try to make love sprout between a brother and sister. He was the kind of bastard who derived pleasure from such perverted deeds. He was far from normal.


    Senia noticed my terse silence. Whats wrong?


    Nothing.


    Apparently, she hadnt heard the notice from the Arrow-Shooting Cupid. It was only sent to me.


    He hasnt done anything else.


    I didnt want to draw any more of his attention. Business. Right now, it was time for business.


    Senia. You agree that were making content together. What I said is correct, right?


    Of course.


    Ive told you how I will be ying in the future.


    Yes. You said you would raise your level to 40 faster than anyone, by maximizing the advantages of the Observer ss.


    Fast leveling is great, of course. But itll take quite some time. Approximately three months.


    No matter how specialized the location was for leveling, it would still take three months.


    What Im going to do is grind. That means itll get boring over time. At least for the Guardians to watch.


    ...


    Senia hadnt thought that far, it seemed. No matter how delicious something was, if you ate it every day, youd get tired of it, and no matter how fun something was, youd get bored of it.


    So you need to change up the directing every now and then and mix things up.


    What was there to enjoy about watching us hunt Polluted Lifeforms day in, day out? Such a scene could only be used as an initial stimulus.


    Senias wings fluttered.


    ... She was starting to get the sense of what I was saying. What youre saying is


    Yeonseo''s Intermediate Administrator, Roa, is the type to invest Coins unstintingly. You know that, right?


    She even offered to pay the penalty for me.


    Yes.


    Seeing the same thing is boring, so well have to asionally mix in some quests.


    To put it bluntly, I was telling her to give me quests. I was like Senias lifeline. She couldnt give me a quest so hard I couldnt clear it.


    Senias expression stiffened a little.


    ...Coins are necessary for quests.


    I know.


    Her finances had to be pretty shot right now, since she had paid a big price for the server expansion.


    You can just get an investment.


    ...An investment?


    Ever since she said we would create content together, Senias face seemed to be effused with a glow of confidence.


    We can make content the Guardians wish to see. For that, you and I need to work hard.


    In other words, lure in the investment,e up with a quest that would make a decent show, and give it to me.


    Senia nodded.


    Your words are correct.


    Of course they were. We had to grind anyway, so wouldnt it be great if we couldplete Streamer quests or missions while we were at it? There was nothing for me to lose.[The Merchant of Venice directs a crafty smile at you.]


    Oh. A crafty smile. I knew that was the message the Merchant of Venice sent when giving a yer their highest praise.


    And normally, after their crafty smile, a big sponsorship follows.


    I had just settled a zero loss trade, a very positive one where I secured profit without any investment. As a reward, the Merchant of Venice sent me a present.[The Merchant of Venice gifts you a Growth Assist Potion.]


    * * *


    * * *


    One day passed. Senias server was fully expanded, and we wouldnt see any more server overloads for the time being.


    Your words were right, yer Kim Hyukjin.


    Senias wings were fluttering. Looking at them now, they kind of reminded me of the happy tail wagging of a puppy. They were trembling particrly hard today.


    Many Guardians sent in generous sponsorships.


    Im sure they did.


    Senia and I were the creators of very unique content in the Korean server, after all.


    Not just in Korea, but probably worldwide.


    I was probably one of the only people showing ying of this level worldwide. Of course, I wasnt counting nonbat yers with artisan sses, cooking sses, or production sses. When it came tobat, I was confident that my ying was definitely way up there.


    Thanks to you, I have found a new path. Since yesterday, Senia had be a lot more talkative. I feel like my insight and vision have broadenedpared to before.


    And then, she bent respectfully at the waist.


    Its a win-win for us both.


    Will you be clearing the Gwanghwamun Dungeon full-sprint from today onwards?


    Just the Gyeonghoeru field, to be exact.


    Understood.


    Senias wings fluttered again. She gave me an obvious stare.


    What?


    ...


    Why do you keep staring at me like that?


    ...


    She hesitated for a long time. The way her lips squirmed made it obvious that she had something to say.


    What?


    ...


    Something interesting happened. The tips of Senias wings turned ever so slightly pink.


    I want to formally show my gratitude.


    It was only for a fleeting moment, and was very faint, but her wingtips turned pink and then returned to their original white. My eyes didnt lie. I didnt see it wrong. Senia herself didnt seem to realize it.


    I heard a notice.


    [The Intermediate Administrator Senia wishes to present you with an Appreciation que.]


    [Receiving Senias Appreciation que.]


    The Appreciation que was sent to my Inventory.


    An Appreciation que in the beginner period?


    I never ever hoped for such a thing, but my words must have been a much bigger enlightenment than I thought. There was an article about the Appreciation que on ypedia as well.


    <em>asionally, Streamers will present yers who have shown an outstanding performance with an Appreciation que. The exact details are not known, but it is believed that this Appreciation que can only be gifted a limited number of times and requires arge number of Coins. The first yer to receive an Appreciation que in Korea is the Golden Priest Gong Jinhoon.</em>


    That was supposed to happen three years from now. But the Appreciation que that should only appear in three years was already showing up. It was unintentional and unnned, but I was lucky, it seemed.


    Inventory.


    I opened my Inventory and checked the Appreciation que.


    [Appreciation que]


    The token of gratitude given by an Intermediate Administrator to a yer who has shown an outstanding performance. When the Appreciation que is activated, a reward is randomly chosen.


    * Reward Influence Conditions<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    Contracted Guardian</li><li>


    Sponsorship Guardians</li><li>


    The yers luck</li><li>


    The yers enhancementpetence</li></ol>


    But strangely, I felt something <em>more</em> when I looked at the description, like I should be able to see more. I was familiar with this feeling.


    Observers Eye.


    I examined the token a little more closely with Observers Eye and perceived a faint flow of something that was invisible to the eye.


    Ill observe it.


    If I really, really focused, I would be able to see something new. I lost track of time, but it felt like at least thirty minutes passed.


    In the end, I was able to trace the strange sensation and discover something new.[You have discovered a hidden Reward Influence Condition of the Appreciation que.]


    As I thought, there was something there. Observers Eye came through for me once again. I immediately checked the new condition.

 Chapter 141

    Chapter 141


    [You have discovered a hidden Reward Influence Condition of the Appreciation que.]


    [Receiving the influence of the new Reward Influence Condition.]


    I unlocked a new condition.


    * Reward Influence Conditions<ol><li>


    Contracted Guardian</li><li>


    Sponsorship Guardians</li><li>


    The yers luck</li><li>


    The yers enhancement ability</li><li>


    Power of a wish</li></ol>


    A condition called Power of a wish was added. The fun thing was, I knew someone who harbored such a wish, and not just a regr wish, but a strong wish.


    Does that mean it can be influenced by Noona?


    I didnt know for certain, but I had a hunch it could.


    Ill use this Appreciation que with gratitude.


    This is an investment I am making in yer Kim Hyukjin.


    An investment?


    Yes. With my current abilities, I can only give an Appreciation que to one person.


    And youre saying that one person is me?


    I already knew this, but she was deliberately unting her credit.


    But is she really unting?


    It kind of felt like she was, but wasnt, and that she was being sincere, but not quite. I had the strange feeling that she wasnt saying, I gave you something this precious, so be good to me, but I did good, right?


    Yes. The Appreciation que can be activated whenever and wherever you want, and the reward will be randomly determined based on the conditions that influence it.


    Basically, I didnt need to use it here, right away.


    First Ill have to go to Noona.


    I told her to set aside some time to spend with me, anyway. It was thanks to Noona that I cleared the Yellow Charm Gate, a gate imbued with her strong wish for my happiness.


    I went to Noonas room. She happened to be home.


    Noona, I told you to make time for me. Whyre you dragging your feet so much?


    She was never going to take initiative, so I just hauled her out of the house.


    Oi. Where are we going?


    Her face was full of irritation, but that was only skin deep.


    Youll know when we get there.


    We got into a taxi. After a thirty minute drive, we arrived at the Sungshin Department Store in Myeongdong. It was essentially the most premium department store in Sungshins possession.


    Please give me this, this, and this.


    I swiped on everything that caught my fancy. Noona was speechless.


    ...


    I didnt bother to count, but I probably used something close to $40k in what felt like one mad rush of buying.State: Extreme Panic / Fear


    She stood there like a wooden doll whose soul had left the body.


    Earth to Noona, I said wryly, shaking her.


    Even my shaking couldnt snap her out of her daze. Her state was even worse than Choi Sung-gu, who imed to have a department store allergy or boujee allergy. She was in a total panic, almost like a yer crushed by Mettle in front of a huge, unbeatable monster.


    Noona. Noona. Noona. Come on, get a hold of yourself.


    After barely managing to gather her wits, Noona looked at me, dumbfounded. ...Are you insane?


    I have a lot of money.


    And I would earn more in the future. I had only managed to earn $300k so far, but my earning power would increase by leaps and bounds. Plus, if I sessfully settled the trade of the Gyeonghoeru Dungeon strat, I could rake in a profit far greater than $300k. I had enough to spend this much on Noona.


    Whether you have a lot of money or not, how is this something a sane person can do?! she shouted, before realizing where she was and quickly looking around. Her unconsciously raised voice drew the attention of the people nearby.


    I saw those people with Observers Eye. Two women I guessed were friends murmured, Woah, whats with that woman? Im jealous. The remark wasnt surprising, considering the mountain of shopping bags held in both my hands.State: Envy / LongingState: Envy / Covetous / Jealousy


    The surrounding gazes werent important. What was important was that I was more than willing to do as much for my sister as she had devoted to me, and that I had the capability to do so.


    Also important was confirming Noonas wish.


    I told you. Ill make it so you can live the good life now.


    Return them all.


    But I dun wanna?


    You really wanna die?


    Nope, Im gonna live.State: Extreme Panic / Brain.exe Crashed


    Noona was rendered speechless again. This was just the smallest act of sincerity I could do for my sister. Another long moment of silence stretched out between us.


    Please, Hyukjin. This is madness. Lets go return them, please.


    But you didnt say anything before. Why now?


    I thought you were pranking me.


    No, I was pretty sure she didnt say anything because she was in a total panic, but now she was trying to cover up by saying she thought it was a prank. It was kind of cute.


    Im not crazy. Also, Im earning a lot better than you think, Noona.


    ...


    She was on the verge of tears. Goodness, it just made me want to tease her more.


    Dont worry. This is way smaller than what Ive received from you.


    Noona kept parroting Lets return them, and I mercilessly ignored her. Only after returning home did Noona reallye back to her senses. She rained blows on my back.


    HEY! YOU CRAZY BASTARD!


    Unfortunately for her, I was already a level 30+ yer. Getting hit by a non-yer like Noona didnt even hurt.


    Oh, youre finally out of your daze. You were all stiff a moment ago. I shed her a cheeky grin. Noona. You want me to seed, right?


    What bullcrap are you on about?


    Just say it. You want me to seed, right?


    ...


    Her lips twitching, Noona bluntly said, No. Not at all.


    Be honest. You want me to seed, right?


    I said no! Her face reddened just a little. What do I care if someone like you seeds or not?


    Oh, cmon. Youre being too harsh, miss. Im still your little brother.


    I stubbornly repeated the question.


    Noona. You want me to seed, right?


    Noona. You want me to seed, right?


    Noona. You want me to seed, right?


    After asking and asking several times, Noona finally gave in.


    FINE! BE SUCCESSFUL, WHY DONT YOU! BE SUCCESSFUL!


    With that, she barreled into her room and mmed her door shut. It was amazing that someone who wrote new charms every day for my sake would be so embarrassed to say it out loud.


    In any case, I read the emotion behind her words when she shouted at me.


    It was sincere, huh?


    My Observers Eye had the power to take in all information and reinterpret it. I sensed Noonas true feelings, the energy the Systembeled as a wish. Maybe because shed been in a total panic moments before, the door to her heart was knocked wide open.


    As a result, I was able to clearly pick up on her wish.


    This energy is the power of a wish.


    As was always the case with information perceived with Observers Eye, the energy wasnt anything concrete or fixed. I just felt it in my mind.


    Influence of a wish, check.


    It took a $40k investment. I could activate the Appreciation que now. I went back to the room and took it out.


    * * *


    * * *


    [Activate the Appreciation que?]


    With my tacit agreement, the Appreciation que produced a ball of golden light that lit up the room. The warm glow of the light extended to every corner of my room.


    [Activating the Appreciation que.]


    [Confirming the Reward Influence Conditions.]


    [The Contracted Guardian is the Nameless Observer.]


    [Confirming arge number of Sponsorship Guardians.]


    The notices stopped for a moment.


    Hm?


    Not long afterwards, I found out why the notices stopped.


    It summoned Senia?


    Senia appeared. I didnt know exactly what was happening, but I guessed messages were being sent to the Streamer I had an exclusive contract with.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. Are you activating the Appreciation que?


    It should be obvious just by looking, but she was asking in order to exin the situation to the Guardians.


    I heard the same notice again.


    [Confirming arge number of Sponsorship Guardians.]


    [Confirming arge number of Sponsorship Guardians.]


    [Confirming arge number of Sponsorship Guardians.]


    The notice was repeated seven or so times. Then, it changed.


    [Arge number of Guardians have expressed their desire to sponsor.]


    [The Appreciation Tokens Sponsorship Limit has been exceeded.]


    [Further sponsorship is impossible.]


    The sponsorships exceeded the amount the Appreciation Token could handle.


    [Judging the yers luck.]


    [The yers luck is a factor that changes in real time depending on the time, ce, and the yers condition.]


    This part was purely RNG.[The yers luck has been set as MAX.]


    Woah.


    Guess Im lucky?


    This time, I hit the lucky MAX. If I had to guess, it was a really good throw of the dice.[Checking the yers enhancementpetence.]


    Here, I had a little confidence, and I was curious as to what the System would say.


    [The Appreciation que enhancementpetence judging ability has been exceeded.]


    [The enhancementpetence cannot be judged.]


    [The yers enhancementpetence has been set to the uppermost limit of the Appreciation que.]


    My luck was MAX, and my enhancement ability couldnt be measured. I saw Senias wings flutter as she murmured a constant stream of words I couldnt understand. From her reaction, the calction of my reward conditions was far from ordinary.


    And finally:


    [Confirming the power of a wish.]


    [Judging the wishs strength.]


    [Confirming the power of a wish so strong it cannot be put into words.]


    All the influence conditions were judged.


    [The Appreciation que is being activated.]


    [Randomly selecting reward.]


    [All Ability Potion selected as the reward.]


    The item window opened automatically, and I saw a potion.


    [All Ability Potion]


    Grade: Legendary


    A potion that increases the proficiency of all skills/innate abilities/innate authorities of a yer by [1].


    Even I felt my jaw drop. However, it wasnt all good.


    [The item is in conflict with the Systems settings.]


    [System is set as the Beginner period.]


    [The grade of the All Ability Potion is decreasing.]


    [All Ability Potion has been changed to An Ability Potion.]


    The item was downgraded.


    [An Ability Potion]


    Grade: Unique


    A potion that increases the proficiency of one skill/innate ability/innate authority of a yer by [1].


    Senia came up to me. The result was a reward the System could not permit. yer Kim Hyukjin is


    You dont have to say it.


    I had a <em>transcendent </em>item, Isabel. That was already almost a bug, but if an All Ability Potion showed up? It would be a literal bnce-breaker.


    However, I earned the reward through legitimate methods and no bugs. My fairly-won reward was forcibly degraded. Such an action vited the Systems rules.


    As such


    A merit will be reappliedter in the mid-game aspensation for the forced downgrade.


    This penalty was like a bandaid fix. Later, a different merit would be applied some other way. <em>If </em>I was able to get past level 40 and enter the mid-game.


    Will you use the An Ability Potion?


    The moment the item was downgraded, I knew exactly what I had to do.


    Thats right.


    For now, I couldnt do anything about the reward being worsened. The System itself hade forward. It wasntmon, but this sort of thing wasnt unheard of.


    In cases like this, you can often get an even bigger reward as long as you fulfill a special condition.


    That knowledge kept my disappointment at bay. Steadily, one step at a time. Just as I had always done from the Tutorial to now, I just had to take one step at a time. And one of those steps was the use of this item.


    Ill use it immediately.


    I saw Senia tense. Ever since I sessfully signed thetest deal with Senia, I could read her emotions much more easily than before. It was like she opened her heart to me a little, or something like that.


    The Guardians must be watching, too.


    Which ability would I use this potion on? Using it on Eye of Perception or Observers Eye would be the most efficient, with the highest chance of paying offter.


    That was the straightforward answer. It was undeniable that one of those two were the best options for me right now.


    Thats what everyone must be predicting.


    It was obvious that the majority of Guardians were predicting that was what I would do.


    But


    The clear and obvious answer was no fun. I was determined to be fantastic content for them.


    I held the reins to this scenario. What should I do to whip more Guardians into a frenzy? How could I make more Guardians focus on my ying?


    Ill show them a slightly different twist.


    I picked the ability I would upgrade.

 Chapter 142

    Chapter 142


    A movie that was too predictable wasnt fun.


    Even if you took the straightforward path when you needed to, it was nice to throw in some unexpected twists and directing changes. However, those twists and changes couldnt be something that stressed out your audience. Adequately meeting your audiences hopes while pulling the story into an unexpected direction was best, and even better if the scenario was one your audience could interact with, if possible.


    The ability Im choosing is


    This oneConductors Song.


    [Favor Granted by the Conductor of Sound]


    Type: Special skill


    Name: Conductors Song


    Effect:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Low chance to cure abnormal statuses of party members in a group battle (duration: 120 seconds)</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    +3% crit chance of party members in a group battle (duration: 120 seconds)</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    +20% increase in effect of consumable items of the same effect when used in a group battle</li></ol>


    Cooldown: 360 seconds


    Proficiency: [1]


    ...Conductors Song. I will upgrade Conductors Song.


    A notice came in.


    [An Ability Potion is taking effect on Conductors Song.]


    [The grade of Conductors Song has increased.]


    [Conductors Song has changed to Conductors Hymn.]


    The grade went up.


    [Favor Granted by the Conductor of Sound]


    Type: Special skill


    Name: Conductors Hymn


    Effect:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Medium chance to cure abnormal statuses of party members in a group battle (duration: 120 seconds)</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    +6% crit chance of party members in a group battle (duration: 120 seconds)</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    +30% increase in effect of consumable items of the same effect when used in a group battle</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Effectiveness of abilities like Pressure or Mettle will be increased when used inbination with Conductors Hymn. (However, requires a separate fusion control ability)</li></ol>


    Cooldown: 360 seconds


    Proficiency: [1]


    It wasnt that the proficiency increased to [2], but that the increase in grade resulted in an entirely new skill, a far more encouraging result than a simple proficiency increase.


    Every effect has improved.


    And on top of that, I got a new effect, the fourth point. Happily, I already had a special ability called Mettle.


    Conductors Hymn.


    I read out the description of the new skill. It looked like I was telling Senia what I got, but I was actually telling the Guardians.


    And I have the higher version of Pressure, Mettle. I continued my acting. The ability specially granted to me by the Courageous Lion King.


    That would surely be a boost to the Courageous Lion Kings ego. I had mentioned his name in front of a lot of Guardians, and plus, he was a real attention whore.


    That Mettle will mesh with the ability given to me by the Conductor of Sound, making it even more effective.


    In addition


    Conductors Hymn will also have a synergistic effect with the ability granted to me by my contracted Guardian.


    I intentionally left out their name. They were the Nameless Observer, after all.


    Essentially, what I was saying right now was this:


    The Courageous Lion King.


    The Conductor of Sound.


    The Nameless Observer.


    Mettle.


    Conductors Hymn.


    Observers Eyes Unique Ability Fusion.


    All these different abilities were brought together and made to shine by the yer that was me. I would create content bybining all these different elements.


    [The Courageous Lion King gives a dignified nod.]


    [The Conductor of Sound respects your outstanding choice.]


    [The Nameless Observer observes.]


    It seemed all three of them were quite pleased with the situation.


    In a situation where the Conductor of Sound is getting this much attention, the White Hunter wont be able to sit still.


    If they were irritated, they would just leave Senias channel and that would be that, but in this sort of situation, they wouldnt want to lose.


    Because theres no one who can rece me.


    That left the White Hunter with no other choice but to obsess over me more.


    What kind of message will they send?


    Without ever mentioning the White Hunter, I would drag them onto the stage.


    I wish to once again express my gratitude to the Conductor of Sound, whose generosity has allowed me to harness even greater strength in battle.


    At that moment, the notices came in.[The White Hunter wishes to grant you a favor.]


    I only prodded them a little, but they were going all out with a favor, of all things.[The White Hunter bestows you with a quest.]


    A note arrived.


    [Note from the White Hunter]


    The White Hunter wishes to bestow you a favor. However, you mustplete a quest in order to obtain said favor.


    * Quest: Qualifications of a Hunter


    Prove that you have overwhelming skills in a 1 vs. 1 PVP with abat yer over level 30.


    * Reward: Grade increase of Hunters Song.


    My oh my.


    I could see the White Hunters intention like it was written in ck and white. Was this Guardian truly unaware that it wouldnt be hard for me to prove that I had overwhelming skill in 1 vs. 1 PVPs with level 30 yers?


    No, they know.


    If they had paid close attention to Senias channel, there was no way theyd be in the dark about my abilities. I had taken down thousands of Polluted Lifeforms.


    The fact they gave me a quest like this despite that means


    This was a formality of sorts. There was a high chance just giving me a favor without good reason would draw unwanted looks or break the rules, so they were giving it to me in the form of a quest reward. Since I was technically a nonbat ss yer, overwhelming abat ss yer of level 30 and up wouldnt constitute a major infraction of the rules.


    Ive achieved everything I intended.


    To begin with, the reason I chose to upgrade Conductors Song was because I also wanted to upgrade Hunters Song. My current situation was one where I had to continuously clear the Gyeonghoeru. That gave me justification to upgrade Conductors Song. And through that justification, I snagged a buy one, get one free deal.


    In the end, the White Hunter also moved ording to my will.


    [The Merchant of Venice is impressed.]


    [300 Coins have been sent as a sponsorship.]


    For now, I finished the upgrading.


    So now its time to meet President Song.


    I decided to do business with President Song before starting the Gyeonghoeru clears in earnest.


    * * *


    * * *


    Before I met President Song, I got footage from Senia. Normally, Intermediate Administrators were reluctant to give their footage to yers. But Senia didnt put up much resistance.


    Thanks.


    ...


    With that footage in hand, I met President Song. The fact that I was able to meet the boss of the global conglomerate Sungshin so easily struck me with amazement once again.


    Mr. Kim Hyukjin. I heard that you have brought footage to prove your strategy.


    Yes. Since there needs to be trust between us.


    President Song took the footage I gave him.


    I am not a yer, so I cannot urately determine the worth of this footage.


    [yer]


    Name: Song Kiyoung


    I could see it clearly, but I feigned ignorance.State: Surprise / Awe


    His state, too, I pretended not to see.


    May I call in Kiyeol for a moment?


    Of course.


    Song Kiyeol examined the footage I brought together with his grandfather. After seeing it, he said, No way Did you level up again?


    Yes. You can call that ce a level up haven. Though of course, my leveling will slow down over time.


    But Ive never seen such fast leveling speed. Isnt it supposed to sharply decrease when you hit level 30?


    That was why you needed this Gyeonghoeru strategy. I nodded and continued. Its best if you have damage absorption items, but even without them, you should be able to defeat them by virtue of numbers. Of course, youll need to get Noahs Helm.


    Noahs Helm would guarantee the yers safety. President Song took one step back and simply watched over my conversation with Kiyeol.


    The Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, Song Kiyeol, murmured, By Noahs Helm, you mean


    We intentionally shared the U-Plex Dungeon strat. Even with the strategy, the people who could clear it were limited. There werent many yers who could keep their calm in front of those terrifying Big ck Dogs on the 1st floor. They needed both the strategy and the nerves to get through it.


    Yes. You can get it by clearing the U-Plex Dungeon. On the 4th floor field, the Hyundai Department Store connected to the U-Plex, is an NPC named Noah. You can obtain Noahs Helm through an appropriate trade with him.


    Not having Noahs Helm didnt make the Gyeonghoeru impossible to clear. It would just be a bit more dangerous. I was just telling them the ideal way.


    You dont always have to go the ideal way.


    Taeguk Shield was more than strong enough. They could mobilize a lot of manpower.


    If the U-Plex Dungeon is too high a hurdle, we can also sell Noahs Helm, but


    ...


    Just then, the watching President Song spoke up. If possible, I would like to buy it. May we be the ones to propose the trade condition? I would like to purchase it together with the Gyeonghoeru Dungeon strategy.


    Things were progressing in a very amusing way. With President Song personallying to bat, I would be able to sell Noahs Helm for a far better price. Meanwhile, Song Kiyeol had to be feeling the burn right now. His grandfather had personally stepped in, unable to keep watching, so he was probably getting eaten alive by the tacit rebuke.


    If it were me, I would have cut off my grandfathers words and taken charge again.


    From what I had seen of President Song, that was what he wanted. When stepping forward, step forward decisively. When negotiation is necessary, negotiate with courage. In the process, take what there is to take and give up on what should be given up. That was what he wanted to see.


    Song Kiyeol stepped forward.


    Grandfather. May I take charge of this deal?


    Okay, well done. This was likely what President Song wanted to seehis grandson being more proactive than before. Kiyeol had done well. Senia was growing by leaps and bounds, and so was Kiyeol. It was good for me. He had to grow like this to make bleeding him dry all the more enjoyable.


    I gave him a boost. Since this is a matter rted to ying, Ill negotiate first with Guildmaster Song Kiyeol.


    However, I also had a warning.


    I believe its only right to discuss things with the President if the negotiations have broken down.


    Basically, if I didnt like it, I would go to the President, so do things right.


    [The Merchant of Venice is having fun.]


    [The Whispering Devil is also having fun.]


    I could almost see the cold sweat running down Kiyeols back, but that was no concern of mine. I had a hunch that our trade would be a very happy one.


    * * *


    Song Kiyeol asked me to give him one more day, and I epted.


    Boss Hyukjin! Over here, over here!


    Far in the distance, Yeonseo was waving her hand. All of my teammates were gathered in front of the Gwanghwamun Dungeon. Sung-gu shook his head.


    I heard you just met President Song? Awesome.


    Sung-gu seemed floored by the fact I had a casual meeting with Koreas living legend.


    Sunhwas voice took on a boastful air. I heard it takes $100k just to eat one meal with that grandpa! The right to have lunch with him gets sold in auctions!


    It looked like she barely swallowed the words, But <em>my </em>oppa just went and had a meeting with him.


    Well, its not important.


    The fact I had a meeting with President Song wasnt all that important to the task at hand, clearing the Gyeonghoeru.


    Were gonna start grinding. Well receive andplete suitable quests or missions from each of our Intermediate Administrators in the process.


    For now, our goal was level 40. Before we entered the dungeon, Sunghyun spoke up. Hyung.


    Hm?


    You know, right?


    He nced in a certain direction. I smirked.


    Of course I know.


    Someone was watching us. It seemed there was an issue I had to settle before we started clearing the Gyeonghoeru.


    This is for the better.


    Someone was staring at us. I stared back.


    She isnt particrly trying to hide the fact shes watching us.


    It was a very familiar face, belonging to one of the people I didnt choose in this life: the person who was originally supposed to swallow Taeguk Shield and be the sessor of Sungshin.


    Song Junghye, the Blood and Iron Queen, no, the Blood and Iron <em>Witch</em>, walked towards us.

 Chapter 143

    Chapter 143


    Her original nickname was Blood and Iron Queen, but many people called her the Blood and Iron Witch. For reference, this Blood and Iron Witch was also the older sister who showered lots of affection on Song Jinchul, the spoiled brat to trump all spoiled brats.


    [yer]


    Name: Song Junghye


    Age: 28


    Level: 28


    ss: Blood and Iron Sovereign


    Guardian: Barrier of Red Light


    Innate Ability: [Forced Submission]


    State: Slight Hostility / Slight Anticipation / Slight Desire to Dominate


    Disposition: Dominant / Arrogant / Blueblooded


    Summary:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Masked Conqueror</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    3rd Generation Chaebol Moved by Curiosity</li></ol><ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    The disposition/state/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    In all actuality, it wasnt because Song Junghyes abilities as a yer were incredible that she defeated Song Kiyeol. Most of the top yers were level 30 or up. It was difficult to level from level 30 onwards, but getting to level 30 was rtively easy.


    And the aura I can feel from her through Eye of Perception isnt all that threatening.


    I didnt know what the future Blood and Iron Witch would be like, but the current one wasnt terribly impressive. Maybe because I hade into contact with a lot of other top yers, I didnt feel much from seeing the Blood and Iron Witch.


    This family is just haah.


    Despite only being 14 years old, Song Jinchul, the Self-Proimed Chosen One, the mega spoiled brat who would be famous in the future as well, was extremely arrogant and destructive.Summary: Self-Proimed Chosen One with a Wounded Pride


    His older sister, the Blood and Iron Witch Song Junghye, had a strong desire to dominate and was blueblooded at heart.


    1.Masked Conqueror


    2. 3rd Generation Chaebol Moved by Curiosity


    Inparison to those two, the Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, Song Kiyeol, seemed like a real decent chap. His summary was super normal and sensible, was it not?Summary: Guildmaster who Met his Teacher


    In any case, Song Junghye came up to me, her face slightly stiff but bearing a subtle smile.


    It is nice to meet you. My name is Song Junghye.


    As soon as I saw her, I felt the haughtiness drip from her. The look in her eyes, that smile, all of it was fabricated. Unfortunately for Song Junghye, my ss was Observer. Inside her gaze was envy and jealousy towards me, probably because I hadpletely stolen away her grandfathers attention.


    I responded to her like I was talking to any other person. Ah. So you are Miss Song Junghye. Hello.


    She flinched imperceptibly. It was very subtle, but I saw her forehead twitch.State: Slight Displeasure / Slight Hostility


    And then, she returned to her original appearance, that slight smile still on her face.


    It seems you know me.


    I could see she was clearly saying, You know who I am, but you dare to talk to me so bluntly? She was easy to read.


    Yes. You are the little sister of the Taeguk Shield Guildmaster I am deeply connected to. Ive seen you in the newspaper.


    I intentionally prodded Song Junghyes pride by referring to her in terms of her brother rather than herself. The existence of Taeguk Shield was likely a source of irritation for her already, so my words would surely wound her pride a little.


    So whatll you do now?


    What should I call this feeling?


    After putting Guardians on my stage and making them dance to my tune whys it so easy to read this kid?


    Was it because she was still an immature version of the Blood and Iron Witch she would be? It was way too easy. I could read all her thoughts and clearly see how she would move.


    I heard you have been maintaining an extremely close rtionship with Taeguk Shieldtely. An excellent choice.


    She was lying through her teeth.


    Soon, I will also make a guildparable to Taeguk Shield. Wont you work with me, too?


    Sorry, but I had no intention to push Song Junghye.


    <em>Each strikes a thousand bucks. You piece of dogshit.</em>


    The Song Junghye I knew once said those words while assaulting a Sungshin employee with a baseball bat. Of course, she wasnt punished by thew. The court case was simply suspended and went nowhere. The incident showed very clearly that money and power were above thew.


    Cooperating with Taeguk Shield already has me pressed for time. I apologize.


    But you havent even heard what I have to say yet?State: Considerable Displeasure


    She was really easy to rile up. Even that faint smile of hers had disappeared. It was way too easy to control her emotions, maybe because she thought that she, a noble, was being disregarded by me, a lower ss being.


    The man next to Song Junghye smoothly stepped forward. He was almost as big as Yoohyun. I already knew about this yer.


    Song Junghyes right arm, Kang Woongmin the Adamant.


    He was of a simr size to Yoohyun, and his fighting style shared simrities as well. He looked much more intimidating than Yoohyun. If Yoohyun was more of an offensive-type yer, Kang Woongmin was more of a defensive-type yer. Eye of Perception told me he was level 30. He did indeed have top-ss talent.


    I asked back, Do I absolutely have to hear it?


    A man of that sizeing forward at this timing could only mean one thing. She was threatening me, telling me she had someone like this by her side, to be careful.


    Im Song Junghye.


    I know.


    I believe there is value in listening to my proposal, at least.


    Im busy right now. You may have heard from your brother, but Im busy clearing the Gwanghwamun Dungeon.


    ...


    After a moment of silence, Song Junghye shed me a slightly brighter smile.


    You are


    What would she say?


    ...an extremely confident person.


    Eye of Perception read it all. She was smiling on the outside and was praising me as a confident person, but this was an insult. She was radiating, Who do you think you are, to be so damn cocky?


    Figures. Its because youre that confident that you came up to Grandpa with absolutely nothing, at first.


    ...


    Fine. Ill back off for today. It would be good to set a day to meet more formally next time.


    The Blood and Iron Queen. Could Song Junghye really have won the Queen moniker if she wasnt the granddaughter of President Song? I wasnt so sure. The still undeveloped Song Junghye just looked like a little kid in my eyes.


    She whirled around, and Kang Woongmin, of course, dipped his head and turned as well.


    <em>Thump!</em>


    His shoulder collided into mine.


    Iughed.


    Is he provoking me?


    How amusing. The real question was, Should I ept?


    The current Song Junghye was far from a scary opponent. The same went for Kang Woongmin. I fell into a very brief moment of thought.


    Does Song Junghye really have proper information about me?


    If I were to point out the people who had the most urate information about me right now, one of those people would be Guildmaster Song Kiyeol. Kiyeol had apetitive rtionship with his sister. He wouldnt have given her the correct details. There was no doubt that he must have distorted the facts.


    She knows theres something about me, but she doesnt know what that is.


    That was why she tried approaching me, but she was soundly rebuffed.


    What if I were Guildmaster Song Kiyeol?


    I would have given Junghye this kind of info:


    <em>yer Kim Hyukjin is a sovereign ss yer, but he possesses fairly strong fighting ability for a nonbat ss yer. However, he received a No Talent evaluation in the talent te exam, so an exact judgment must be deferred.</em>


    If that was all she got, it wasnt a big stretch of the imagination to think that Song Junghye might havee here with acent mind and zero preparation.


    That would exin everything.


    It would exin why she came to me far too unprepared considering she was the Blood and Iron Queen, why she appeared a little less put together than usual, and even why Kang Woongmin attempted to provoke me, as ridiculous as it was. In the end, these two didnt know anything about me. Song Kiyeol had intentionally made it that way.


    I called her. Miss Song Junghye.


    She stopped in ce.


    Why do you think your grandfather is so interested in me?


    I wonder. Id like to know that, too.


    Why do you think Taeguk Shield is cooperating so much with me?


    ...


    After some thought, Song Junghye answered honestly. My guess is that youre holding onto some kind of weakness of theirs. That weakness might be a big help to me.


    Ah. So that was how she saw it.


    Its not unusual that you would think that way.


    I should tell her she was wrong.


    Shall I show you


    I pulled out the transcendent item, Isabel.


    ...the reason why the foundation of Sungshin, President Song, and the Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, Song Kiyeol, are interested in me, and even clinging to my thigh?


    * * *


    * * *


    Hyukjin thought this sudden PVP was a good thing. Things went as he intended, and Senia had a PVP zone dered.


    Yeonseo grinned. An exclusive PVP zone, huh?


    Yeonseo had experienced it several times already. On multiple asions, her no-holds-barred Intermediate Administrator, Roa, worked with her Guardian to dere a PVP zone where the fighters would be free of all interruption. Only party members would be ported to the exclusive zone.


    Unperturbed, Kang Woongmin asked, Will my opponent be Miss Shin Yeonseo, then?


    Nope, said Yeonseo.


    Hyukjin smiled. Im a sovereign, but I can also handle myself in a fight.


    Actually, he wasnt even a sovereign, but an Observer. In any case, people thought of him as a sovereign.


    Youll fight me yourself?


    Of course.


    Only then did Kang Woongmin stare at Yeonseo with a slightly bbergasted expression.


    In order to stamp down their high and mighty arrogance I thought Id have to subdue Shin Yeonseo or So Yoohyun.


    That was why he went and procured items specially for this fight.


    Im going to be fighting Kim Hyukjin, not Shin Yeonseo?


    Woongmin felt the air leave his sails a little. From what he was told, Kim Hyukjin was a yer who had gotten a No Talent evaluation. However, he had extremely outstanding tactics and was very skilled at making effective use of his incredible party members.


    A yer whose limits are clear because they themselvesck the qualifications.


    Not long from now, this party would fall apart. That was how Woongmin saw it.


    Interesting. To think a sovereign yer would personally fight. He took out his axe. Is your main weapon the sword?


    Yes. But I wont use the de.


    Woongmins brows furrowed a little. He felt like Kim Hyukjin was looking down on him. The sword was a weapon for piercing and shing, yet his opponent said he wouldnt use the de.


    Youre awfully confident.


    He nced furtively at Song Junghye. She gave him a small nod. That was his OK to bring Kim Hyukjin within half an inch of death. This was a PVP zone, a ce with the power of resurrection. So even if Kim Hyukjin died, Woongmin should give him a very painful death. Basically, he should teach this arrogant bastard a lesson.


    Hyukjin, who saw Kang Woongmins inside thoughts from beginning to end, smiled.[The quest Qualifications of a Hunter has begun.]


    Blessings were rolling right into hisp. Even without picking a fight with someone, this sort of thing just happened all on its own.[The PVP has begun.]


    Hyukjin took out Isabel, the club with greater attack power than any blunt weapon in the beginner period. He decided to use the forcibly unlocked ability of this mighty club.


    Ah, right. Before that.


    He also decided to show a small sign of sincerity to the White Hunter who prepared such a stage.[Using the special skill Hunters Song.]


    The buffs instantly took effect.


    [Curing your own status abnormalities. Duration: 120 seconds]


    [+3% crit chance. Duration: 120 seconds]


    [+20% effect of consumable items.]


    Kang Woongmin saw it, too. He recognized it as a special buff ability. He didnt know what kind of buff it was, but it didnt matter.


    I will personally show you the difference betweenbat and nonbat sses.


    A mere buff couldnt surpass the limitations of ss. The misinformed Kang Woongmin confidently raised his spear, taking up his position. His aura was full of calm assurance.


    A sovereign who uses a sword, huh.


    Since his opponent didnt have a swordsman ss, his attack pattern would be simple. Once Woongmin figured out that pattern, he would be able to subdue Kim Hyukjin without much difficulty.


    <em>Yes. But I wont use the de.</em>


    Remembering those words made a little anger re within him. He decided to utterly overwhelm Kim Hyukjin. He believed that he was the one directing this situation from the start, that it was good that Kim Hyukjin took initiative to request a PVP. It was an excellent situation.


    No matter how much a nonbat ss crawls and rolls, they cant beat abat ss.


    In Woongmins eyes, even the way Hyukjin grasped his sword was weird.


    Its like hes holding a club or something.


    Woongmin could tell just from that posture. This guy hadnt learned any swordsmanship before. He never formally learned the sword, and didnt have any sword skills. There was no doubt about it. Moreover, this was an exclusive PVP zone. The outside world couldnt see what was happening within.


    At some point, Shin Yeonseo might attack me.


    That might even be why they chose to dere an exclusive zone. This party was probably up to some petty tricks.


    Try all you want, but


    He was determined to utterly subdue Kim Hyukjin without giving Shin Yeonseo a chance to jump in. He was confident.


    You can make the first move, Woongmin said. I will concede the first three attacks to you.


    Really?


    Kim Hyukjin epted the concession.[Using the innate ability Beat em, Beat em, Beat em Harder.]


    Hyukjins lips curled into a broad smile.

 Chapter 144

    Chapter 144


    Kang Woongmin was full of confidence.


    [Using the special skill Sturdy Body.]


    [Using the special skill Unbreaking Will.]


    These two were his fundamental skills as a yer. When Sturdy Body was in effect, he didnt even need to fear the attack of an Orc.


    [Defense is increasing from the effect of Sturdy Body.]


    [The sensation of pain is reduced by the effect of Unbreaking Will.]


    Getting hit didnt hurt. There was the theoretical downside of not being able to feel pain until he was a hair''s breadth away from death if he overused the skill, but that hadnt happened yet. With the increase in defense and the dulling of pain, he could take a far more fierce and active stance in battle.


    I actually prepared this to fight the Tutorial Ender, but


    It was a good opportunity to look good in front of Song Junghye. But just then, he heard a voice.


    Whats wrong? Going to use the Nile Armors special effect?


    Woongmin flinched. He knows about Nile Armor?


    This item hid a special power within it. It could reflect a portion of the iing damage to the opponent. Granted, you had to use it with extremely good timing, but after a lot of practice, he was pretty good at getting it right.


    But what to do?


    No matter which angle you looked at it from, Isabels forcibly unlocked innate ability, [Beat em, Beat em, Beat em Harder] was far higher in grade than the Nile Armors [Reflect].


    <em>Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam!</em>


    And so began the beating.


    Woongmin was forced to take several steps backwards.


    Ngh!


    His entire body was tingling and numb.


    But it didnt even look like he used his full strength!


    The other party didnt seem to have put much strength in the blows, and yet, Woongmin felt incredible pain, even under the effect of [Unbreaking Will]. Without the skill, he might be rolling around in agony on the ground right now.


    Whats going on?


    He felt a surge of panic.


    Cant even consider matching the timing while getting hit, can you?


    That was the limitation of items with the [Reflect] effect. The higher the difficulty or level of the monster, the more difficult it was to get the timing right.


    Kim Hyukjin was well aware of that.


    In the higher levels, such items are hardly ever used.


    In battles of the highest level, the smallest thing could decide victory or loss. The angle of your arm, the intensity of your movement, even the moment you breathed. All of them could have a big influence on the result. In such a situation, who would have the presence of mind to try getting the timing right?


    It would be tricky, unless you could freely use a power on the level of Future Sight. Even if you could, it wouldnt be cost-effective. For Rankers of that level, it was more efficient to focus on their strengths rather than try to calcte the correct timing for [Reflect] and risk their lives.


    And when theres a big stat difference with the opponent, itspletely useless.


    That was the case now.


    [Using the innate ability Beat em, Beat em, Beat em Harder.]


    A one-sided beating ensued. In his panic, Kang Woongmin used a foot technique in order to dodge the unceasing rain of blows. He made it seem like he was taking a step backwards, but moved to the right.


    Three steps to the right, Woongmin thought to himself. Then, he would take two steps back.


    Ngh!


    But Hyukjinpletely saw through his movements.


    You must have missed the memo that Im a sovereign with special eyes?


    Kim Hyukjin was faster, at least one second faster than him. The sovereign was waiting and swinging his sword where Woongmin was dodging.


    <em>Whumpf!</em>


    The air whistled.


    In order to avoid an attack that was not piercing, not shing, but <em>mming,</em> Woongmin threw himself forward into a roll before springing back up.


    He bit his lips.


    This is insane.


    How was it that a nonbat ss yer could fight like this? Woongmin was breathing hard in a quick stato, but his opponent was the picture of calm, a tranquil andante, like he wasnt exerting himself one bit. He was moving all too leisurely. Song Junghye was watching from the back. Things couldnt go on like this.


    In that case


    He decided to use the card hed hidden up his sleeve for the very end to fight the nimble Shin Yeonseo. He would make ast ditch gamble using the special effect attached to the Millons Leather Shoes he had recently obtained.


    Effect:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Quickspeed - Instantly elerates to twice the speed. (Cooldown: 30 seconds)</li></ol><ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;"></li></ol>


    Currently, Kim Hyukjin was full of confidence. In other words, he was being conceited and his guard was down. Now was Woongmins chance.


    Ill use Quickspeed


    But then, Hyukjins voice interrupted his thoughts once again.


    Youre probably thinking of finding an opening with Quickspeed.


    ...


    By this point, Woongmin was about to lose his fighting spirit. Nile Armor was a pretty well-known item, but Millons Leather Shoes were incredibly rare. It was even blue grade. And yet, Kim Hyukjin saw through a blue items special effect.


    I have no other choice, anyway, Woongmin thought, gritting his teeth. He couldnt just pathetically surrender. Whether it worked or not, he had to try.


    This fight is my loss.


    He already knew. There was a massive wall in front of him. His information about Kim Hyukjin was wrong, incredibly wrong. He should have looked into him a little more. He was too blinded by the fact that Hyukjin was given a No Talent evaluation.


    Even so


    He drew out his strength. Even if he lost, he had to do his best.[Using the special ability Quickspeed.]


    He knew Kim Hyukjin had already seen through all of this. But he still charged forward, raising his axe.[Using the skill Hammer Smash.]


    He didnt think it would work anyway. This was the end. Once his axe came down, the result would be decided.


    Huh?


    But it was weird. Kim Hyukjin didnt react.


    What?


    Hammer Smash was a technique where the user jumped and smashed down. It dealt a lot of damage because it carried the users full weight, but that also meant it was telegraphed. It wasnt even that fast an attack. But Kim Hyukjin wasnt reacting.


    At this rate!


    This axe would be able to cleave Kim Hyukjins head. The wicked edge was about to make contact.


    No way.


    He couldnt believe it. Was it really going to hit?


    <em>Bam!</em>


    A heavy impact rang out.


    The axe crashed into Kim Hyukjins head.


    It hit.


    But Kim Hyukjin didnt seem to have taken much damage. He simply gave his brief impression of the move.


    Mm. About that strong, huh? Hyukjin gave a light nod. Not bad.


    ...


    Woongmins hand trembled. His shoulder felt like it was going to fall apart. In the next moment, Hyukjin brought Isabel to Woongmins throat.


    Woongmin honestly admitted defeat. Its my loss.


    Hyukjin withdrew Isabel. Unable to resist his curiosity, Woongmin said, Mr. Kim Hyukjin. Can I ask you just one question?


    Yes, go ahead.


    Why did you just take thest attack?


    To see how much it would hurt if itnded.


    ...


    Such idle leisure drove him to stay put in the face of an iing axe?


    ...And your assessment?


    Not bad.


    Hyukjins assessment of Kang Woongmin really was not bad.


    [The Great Orc Warriors partial set effect is activating.]


    [All damage has been nullified.]


    The effect that perfectly nullified all attacks under level 35 activated. In other words, the attack had been strong enough to activate the partial set effect.


    ...I see.


    Woongmin stowed his axe in his Inventory. He slightly bit his lips.


    Theres always someone better.


    It felt as if hed glimpsed a sky above the sky he knew.


    I was just a frog in a well.


    If the sovereign Kim Hyukjin was this strong, what about the PVP expert Shin Yeonseo and the Tutorial Ender So Yoohyun? As realbat sses, they must be even stronger.


    I need to work harder.


    He had to get stronger. He was basically a minnow.


    May I please ask one more question? Its really thest one.


    His way of speech had subtly changed, something Hyukjin recognized.


    <em>Mr. Kim Hyukjin. Can I ask you just one question?</em>


    <em>May I please ask one more question? Its really thest one.</em>


    Can became may. It was much more courteous.


    Summary:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Frog in a Well that has seen the Sky</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Frog that wants to Fly</li></ol>


    Hyukjin was pretty pleased with those summaries.


    Yes, go ahead.


    I know the sovereign ss isnt a directbat ss. That means your nonbat abilities must be even stronger. Are you able to overwhelm me with any nonbat abilities?


    ...


    There was a faint longing and anticipation in Kang Woongmins eyes. He was purely curious about Hyukjins strength.


    Overwhelm, you say


    Kang Woongmin was perfectly fulfilling his role in the picture Hyukjin was painting.


    Then let me give you a taste. Of the sovereign ss true strength.


    He wasnt actually a sovereign, but he showed yet another power he possessed.[Using the special ability Mettle.]


    And this is fan service for the Conductor of Sound.


    You had to make good use of the reward that was given to satisfy the giver, no?[Using the special skill Conductors Hymn.]


    First, he showed Hunters Song, and now, he was using Conductors Hymn. His body began to shine with a golden light. To thepletely defeated Kang Woongmin, that light was like a sovereigns radiance.4) Effectiveness of abilities like Pressure or Mettle will be increased when used inbination with Conductors Hymn. (However, requires a separate fusion control ability)


    It wasnt a group battle, but he could still use the new ability. Hyukjin already had a separate fusion control ability.[The special ability Mettle is taking greater effect.]


    On top of that[Using the innate ability of Observers Eye, Unique Ability Fusion.]


    He even drew on the strength of Noahs Helm, concentrating Mettles range. Perhaps because hed done it before, but the process came to him much more easily this time.


    Mettle was first strengthened by Conductors Hymn, then concentrated in one spot with Noahs Helm using Unique Ability Fusions power of controlling multiple processes.


    Everything came together to create a far more powerful Mettle than normal.


    <em>Rooooar!</em>


    Kang Woongmin thought he heard roaring. There was no actual sound, but he thought he could hear it.


    <em>Riiiiiing!</em>


    There was a ringing in his ears. His head felt as if it would explode. He covered his eyes, stricken by the terror that if he didnt, they would explode. His heart began to run like crazy, and the blood being pumped by his wildly beating heart was flooded with terror. It filled every part of his body. Terror, sheer terror.


    <em>Thud.</em>


    Without realizing it, he fell to his knees.


    ...


    For a long time, he was unable to speak. His body was trembling uncontrobly, still in shock.


    This is a sovereign.


    They didnt fight, but he was defeated. His will to fight waspletely crushed. Moments ago, he still wanted to get stronger and then have a rematch, but now, that thought was erased entirely from his mind.


    ...You went very easy on me.


    Hyukjin answered with a shrug. As he did so, he heard a stream of notices.


    [The White Hunter is satisfied with your overwhelming battle prowess.]


    [The quest Qualifications of a Hunter has been cleared.]


    [The grade of Hunters Song has increased.]


    [Hunters Song has changed to Hunters March.]


    Pushed by the Conductor of Sound, the White Hunter gave a nearly equivalent reward. Hyukjin was very satisfied. It was like he caught two fish with one bait.


    Excellent.


    After checking the effects of Hunters March, Hyukjin headed towards the Gwanghwamun Dungeon.


    * * *


    * * *


    [Entering the Gwanghwamun Dungeon.]


    I saw the Kings Road again. I had already passed it multiple times, and my teammates were also familiar with the clear method.


    However, I was subjected to a slightly harder time than usual while going past it.


    (Im really gonna kill you.)


    And that was because Isabels ego had woken up and was expressing her extreme displeasure.


    (Dont use my sacred body like that! Your bride isnt a club!)


    I thought she was asleep, but she apparently felt the gist of what happened earlier.


    (Im serious, hubby. I wont let you off.)


    As I walked the dark nothingness, I thought, Everything else is fine, but can you stop with the hubby?


    There wasnt a problem with the title itself, but something about it irked me.


    (You think what I call you is important right now?) Isabels de trembled. (You better <em>hope</em> I dont get a body.)


    How would a sword get a body?


    (I wont let you off.)


    What was she gonna do if she got a body?


    (Ill take your chastity. Prepare yourself.)


    With that, Isabel fell asleep again. I was dumbfounded. Who would have thought a <em>sword</em> would one day threaten to take my chastity?


    We passed the Red Lion Statue and Blue Lion Statue, walking between the Millenium Lava and Millenium Ice Water in the Path of Harmony to reach the Gyeonghoeru field. Then, our work began. We continued to grind for a long time.[Level increased.]


    My level reached 34.


    Lets stop here for today, I said.


    My level went up, and we also got all sorts of misceneous items. Yoohyun stretched wide, saying, Goodness, this is tough, Hyungnim.


    After destroying the brown Clear Crystal, we left the Gyeonghoeru field.


    Hrm?


    Waiting in front of the Gwanghwamun Dungeon entrance was the Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, Song Kiyeol.


    Wee back.


    Were you waiting for me?


    Yes. There was something I urgently needed to tell you.


    I nodded. I could guess what he was going to say.


    Song Kiyeol and I began a fun conversation.

 Chapter 145

    Chapter 145


    Song Kiyeol began hesitantly, My sister Junghye mighte to you.


    I knew he would say that. But he was one step toote. Or to put it another way, Junghye was one step faster.


    I have already met her.


    ...Is that so?


    To my amusement, his voice as he spoke his sisters name carried a little affection for her.


    Junghye has begun to have interest in yers and the new culture business.


    Im sure she has. It could also influence the sessor battle, after all.


    Yes. Thats why I thought she mighte to you, but she was faster than me.


    He did acknowledge that Junghye moved quickly.


    But the Song Junghye I met


    It was true that there were still ten years between now and the Blood and Iron Witch Song Junghye I remembered, but her level was still too low. She was the woman who bore the official moniker of Blood and Iron Queen. Just looking at her current qualifications, she could never earn such a title.


    Song Junghye was different from my expectations, and her brother Song Kiyeol showed slight affection towards her. What was the difference between the Song Junghye I remembered and the one now?


    It seems you cherish your little sister.


    That is an overstatement. Junghye is more of apetitor than a family member.


    ...


    I didnt refute him. She was indeed hispetitor. But Kiyeol cherished his little sister more than he himself knew. How to put it? A love and hate rtionship?


    Though I dont think Junghye feels the same way towards you.


    Both Kiyeol and Junghye felt like rookies to me, but Kiyeol was the better one between them.


    I only saw the ambition to surpass you from her.


    A witch filled with greed. That was what I, an Observer, saw from the Song Junghye I observed. Id only know for sure after meeting her a few more times, but for now, that was my first impression.


    Having topete with family must be rough.


    It cant be helped. We were born like that from the moment we entered this world.


    Under Song Kiyeols guidance, I got into the back seat of a ck car.


    This is the ultra-luxury sedan made by Mercedes Benz. As a model specially produced for VVIPs, only thirty of these exist worldwide.


    He was suddenly bragging about his car? But it didnt quite seem like he was bragging. It was like he was talking about something trivial, like what he had for breakfast this morning. It was indeed roomy on the inside. The back seat could be controlled with a button, and it reclined almost fully horizontal.


    Im sure you didnt call me inside to brag about your car.


    No. As Im sure you already know, I am privy to all matters of the yers Association through Taeguk Shield.


    It was the so-called first movers advantage. In the quickly approaching age of new culture, Taeguk Shield was fully enjoying the advantage of having jumped on the bandwagon quickly. If you were to pick the most famous guild in Korea right now, it would obviously be Taeguk Shield. The guild was also the envy of countless yers.


    As such, I am capable of controlling yer-rted information to some extent.


    Im sure you gave your sister a distorted version of the information about me.


    ...Yes.


    I knew that already. This conversation was well within my ability to predict.


    And you wont be able to maintain that misinformation for long. Did youe here to warn me to be careful of Song Junghye?


    If not that, then


    Or did youe here to keep the rtionship between me and Song Junghye in check?


    I looked straight at Kiyeol. Neither of the two responses werepletely to my liking. I wanted a slightly more out of the box and constructive answer.


    How will he respond?


    He came in person to speak to me as soon as I came out from the Gyeonghoeru field. If he only had excuses to give when he said he had something urgent to tell me, I was going to be very disappointed.


    After listening to your words, I thought about it a little.


    ...


    It seems I really do cherish Junghye.


    I knew that. I could see things other people couldnt. Through observation, I had already taken note of the hint of affection on Kiyeols face.


    Because of that, I hesitated a little. He looked up at me, his eyes unwavering. But it is my belief that business is business.


    He intended on giving me some kind of info. I nodded, finding Song Kiyeol a little more to my liking.


    I gave him a little encouragement. A fight of intel. Awful battle for the session of thepany. Guildmaster Songs grandfather will also be happy with a fight conducted without cowardly means.


    ...Yes.


    Kiyeol had three pieces of information to give me.


    First, Song Junghye would try to win me over by any and all means.


    Second, if winning me over was impossible, she wouldnt hesitate to resort to violence.


    These two were points I already predicted and was brainstorming countermeasures for. But the third point was unexpected.


    Junghye is looking for the Red Eyes.


    The Red Eyes?


    Song Kiyeol knew about the Red Eyes. He also knew about Ahn Seohyes eyes. If Junghye didnt know about the Red Eyes, it was because Kiyeol kept that information from reaching her.


    You intentionally didnt leak information about Seohye.


    Yes. With my sisters personality, I didnt know what she would do.


    Seohye was under the protection of Sungshins protective services, and the Blood and Iron Witch Song Junghye was a 3rd generation Sungshin chaebol. If Junghye wanted to, she could easily cook Seohye up however she wanted.


    I dont think you need to worry, I said.


    Huh?


    The Red Eyes, I already have them. I put a light smile on my face. And you can leak the fact that I have the Red Eyes to Miss Junghye whenever youd like.


    Mr. Kim Hyukjin. My little sister is


    I read Kiyeols state.State: Affection / Slight Fear / Complicated Feelings


    He was probably trying to say that she might be his sister, but even he couldnt predict what she would do. It could also be that it was because he loved her as a family member that he feared her.


    Its alright, I said, cutting him off.


    ...


    Kiyeol bit his lips a little. What was it? Was he worrying about me? Or was he scared that his new culture business partner would suffer a mishap? Or maybe he was scared that his little sister would take things too far?


    Whichever one it is, it doesnt matter.


    I was confident. Unless President Song Kiyoung himself took action, I could deal with Song Junghye with my own power, anytime.


    I definitely have the Red Eyes.


    I didnt know why she was aiming for the Red Eyes. It could be that a Guardian other than the Shepherd Boy wanted them. If so, what were the Red Eyes, to have Guardians wanting them?


    I should be able to get some good content out of them.


    * * *


    * * *


    I said one more thing.


    However, you must also be sure to warn Miss Junghye.


    ...Warn?


    If she wants to win me over, she should do so decisively, and if winning me over isnt possible, she should give up.


    ...


    I chose Song Kiyeol, not Song Junghye. But that choice wasnt set in stone. My choice could definitely change depending on the situation. My words were essentially a warning for Kiyeol as well. I was telling him I could also work with his sister, so he should do his best.


    But if she uses inhumane or violent methods, or methods I cannot agree with


    An ambush without a deration of war was a cowardly act. Even small electronics came with a big list of precautions.


    At that time, Miss Junghye must also prepare herself.


    I thought our conversation would end there, but it wasnt over yet. Kiyeol brought up something else.


    I missed the timing to say this earlier, but


    What he said next was very amusing.


    So youre saying that this car is mine?


    Yes. The same goes for the driver in the front. But because of the wless sound instion, the conversation were having in the back cannot be heard in the front. If you have something to tell the driver, you can press this button.


    It was one of the many buttons arrayed on the armrest.


    This button is for the massage function.


    This button is for the ventted seat function.


    This button


    Like some kind of car salesman, he politely exined the cars many functions.


    This is good.


    I suddenly got a car with a driver. I was feeling the inconvenience of having no car, but Kiyeol solved the issue for me.


    After a round of exnation, I said, But this seems too small a reward for the Gyeonghoeru field strat.


    Naturally, I thought the same. He continued after taking a deep breath. After meeting yer Kim Hyukjin with my grandfather, I did a great deal of thinking.


    He truly had a lot to say. To summarize his words, he believed the value of the information I brought him could not be measured with money alone. In this quickly approaching age of new culture, mere money didnt have much value to me, because I would earn a ton of it anyway, or so he said.


    No. Moneys great.


    It was the most clear-cut method of trade, wasnt it?


    ...And so, in order to allow Mr. Kim Hyukjin to focus solely on ying and not have to bother about anything else, I will have Sungshin go all out with our cooperation and support.


    Giving me this car and driver was a part of that.


    You can use this car and driver whenever you want to travel infort. Oh, right. I have moved the driver into Apt. 904. You can call upon him at your convenience. The associated fees will be undertaken by us. The insurance and all the other minor details will be handled by the insurance team on our side.


    Also


    For your driving pleasure, I have also prepared a few sports car candidates. They can be delivered immediately, with zero wait time. Please pick one from this list.


    He showed me a few shiny pictures. I was supposed to pick one of these? I didnt know much about stuff like this, but they had to be about $500k a pop.


    Like this car, all fees associated with the maintenance and purchase of the car will be undertaken by Sungshin.


    It seemed he really wasnt lying when he said he would clear my path of annoyances.


    In addition, I will have a yers Association yer License of the highest rank issued to you. Not just that, but I will also issue a separate intermediate rank license in case you wish to hide your identity.


    Two cars, identification. It was a pretty decentpensation for information that would have be well-known anyway. Like Song Kiyeol said, the information in my head couldnt simply be converted to money. More than anything, I was pleased with his desire to clear away the hassles to allow me to focus my undivided attention on ying.


    Also


    Hes thought a lot about what I need.


    I could see his sincerity. His sincerity wasnt bad. It wasnt bad, but that was all.


    But do you really think Miss Junghye is unable to offer these things to me as well?


    ...


    I did like his sincerity, but business was business.


    They are things Junghye can offer as well, Kiyeol admitted.


    It seems you have thought to some extent about what Ick. In that respect, I am grateful for your consideration.


    That was why I would give him a little more opportunity.


    Song Kiyeol hurried to say, These are an advance sign of my sincerity before the real deal is made.


    Essentially, they werent part of the terms of the deal, but a gift to look good in my eyes. Sungshin was more generous than I thought.


    He bowed at the waist.


    Are there any other conditions you would like?


    I couldnt just ignore the fact he had a majorpetitor named Song Junghye. With Kiyeols consideration, I could scratch the itches that had always bothered me. There were a few things I still needed.


    I have two things to request from Guildmaster Song.


    Please go ahead.


    His attitude seemed to say he would do his utmost to meet my requests.


    After living with Sunhwa, my mom, and my sister, the house feels a little small.


    It wasnt hard to get money and buy a house with it. But it was a hassle. There were a lot of things to pay attention to. A house wasnt like a bag of chips you could buy at the supermarket.


    I will have your family transferred to arge condo. I was already thinking of doing so and have had the market inspected. The purchase can be settled as soon as tomorrow.


    That was a pass.


    Also, as it is arger condo, I will also dispatch a helper who can assist with the cleaning or housework.


    This too was a pass. Song Kiyeol was pretty quick on the uptake. Picking him seemed like the right choice.


    In addition, for yourfort, I will have the driver I nned on moving into Apt. 904 moved into the condo directly next door.


    From the way the words spilled out of his mouth without a hitch, there was no doubt he had already considered this. He had clearly thought of many different directions to this conversation.


    If possible, I would like Seohye moved to the condo next door.


    Miss Ahn Seohye?


    Yes. The Ahn Seohye who was almost targeted by your sister.


    That isnt hard to do, but if this bes known, it could create problems for you down the line.


    Kiyeols expression changed for a moment. I knew what he was thinking. I was asking him to move a pretty young girl to the condo directly next door. Such an action could easily be construed as something perverted. I wasnt a famous person now, but if I became famous in the future, a very small issue could be blown up into a big scandal. That was how the world had always been.


    I didnt bother to exin the details. At this point in time, Seohyes barrier was something I absolutely needed.


    In order to decorate the interior to a decent condition, we will need about one month. In the meantime, for your convenience, I will have Ahn Seohye moved to Apt. 1003.


    I could certainly feel Song Kiyeols earnest care.


    This seems like an exaggerated response to the sale of one strategy.


    This isnt a trade, but an investment.


    To be more precise, an investment towards me. He was saying all this care wasnt just for a single strategy.


    That response, too, was quite satisfying.


    Hes quite something.


    He paid close attention to the little details that escaped me. Since I had felt his sincerity and care, it was time for me to respond in like. A rtionship where only one side reaped the profits would be short-lived. Ours had to be a rtionship where both Song Kiyeol and I, Taeguk Shield and I, profited through each other. It wasnt very good for the scales to weigh too heavily on one side.


    I will give you one present.


    It was possible that this present would create a big butterfly effect. Despite that, it was a present worth risking.


    Ill risk it anyway.


    This present was a bit of a gamble. Like all things, it was high risk, high return. Whenever I judged that the risk was one I could handle, investing was the right choice.


    That was how I saw it.

 Chapter 146

    Chapter 146


    I decided to give Song Kiyeol a gift, one of the pieces of information I possessed. It was information that could influence the flow of the future.


    Focus on mana crystals.


    Mana crystals?


    Yes. Items called Lowest Grade Mana Crystals will start to frequently appear.


    I have heard of them, too. I think Gong Jinhoon has gotten one before.


    In the current period, only Lowest Grade Mana Crystals would be dropped, at best. By future standards, they werent terribly valuable items, but at this stage, you could almost call them treasures. Not long from now, research using mana crystals would progress tremendously.


    Those who get the mana crystals first will have an edge on everyone else.


    I lowered my voice a little. ording to information I secretly got a hold of


    ...


    Quite a lot of mana crystals are being dropped on Boracay Ind in the Philippines.


    A rtively higher number of mana crystals were being dropped there. The yers of the Philippines, especially the residents on Boracay Ind, didnt have much interest in ying. They tended to focus more on tourism, and their server had a veryte start in ying.


    Whether you move to obtain those mana crystals or not is up to Guildmaster Song, but


    ...


    If it were me, I would go for them.


    And also


    There may already be foreign yers camping there.


    I added one more thing. There probably are. Maybe not now, but very soon. I believe you know the reason why Im so sure.


    Yes. Because you have Precognitive Dream.


    Precognitive Dream, Precognitive Eye. In this changing world, such things were no longer strange. Song Kiyeol understood my words very well.


    Theres also a high probability of those foreign yers being aggressive. At least ording to what I saw with Precognitive Dream.


    I took a moment to catch my breath.


    Is it really a good thing to tell him this much?


    Senia was streaming us in a transparent state. Was this something I should show the Guardians?


    Most of the foreign yers who were ying on Boracay, or would soon y on Boracay, belonged to a single guild.


    That guild was called Imperialism.


    The yers of the Imperialism guild were considerably nationalistic and imed that the yers of their country were the strongest in the world. They were also very prideful.


    Well, its not totally wrong.


    In the early days of ying, the representative two countries that experienced the most rapid growth were the US and the UK. The reason those two nations were able to grow faster than other countries could be traced back to one yer.


    The yer who alternated from the US to the UK, finding hidden pieces and sharing strategies.


    It was time for that yer to slowly start making his appearance. Countless British yers once said this:


    <em>The Great Explorer Jackson may very well be the greatest gift to mankind.</em>


    Jackson. The person who created a huge number of the existing strategies, solved a ton of hidden pieces, and made a massive contribution to clearing dungeons and gates.


    This is about the time that Jackson should be active on Boracay.


    Once this period ended, the UKs Imperialism guild would almostpletely take over the Boracay server.


    I added one more thing. You can ask your Intermediate Administrator for more exnationter, but the Korean server is a single server. Its name is the Korean server.


    I am aware.


    There isnt a Seoul server, a Gyeonggi server, or a Busan server. The server isnt split up.


    ...


    Kiyeol seemed to have realized something. He nodded, saying, You mean to say that there is a separate Boracay server in the Philippines.


    Yes. Dont forget that even the giant US and China countries only have one server.


    The servers would be splitter, but each country only had one for now. Basically, there was a reason why the Philippines alone had two.


    Understood. I will engrave your words in my heart.Summary: Guildmaster who met his Teacher


    I gave Song Kiyeol the information. Now, Taeguk Shield would move. The discovery of the value and effectiveness of mana crystals would usher the world into a new stage. Originally, that should have been initiated by Jackson and the yers of Imperialism. Originally.


    As impressive as Imperialism might be, the current Taeguk Shield was no slouch, either. After all, they were being fully backed by the global conglomerate called Sungshin, as well as the prominent figure named President Song Kiyoung.


    If theres anything theyre missing or something important they should know, I can tell them.


    With that, they should be able to go toe to toe with Imperialism.


    Ive majorly changed the flow.


    How much of a butterfly effect this would have was still unknown. Only time would tell.


    Its fun.


    About half a year had passed since I returned to the past. In that time, I had also changed a great deal. I was scared to change the future at first, anxious that things wouldnt happen like I remembered.


    But now, Im not all that scared.


    My feelings had changed a little. I didnt really fear the future I changed, and the reality that was toe. I couldnt control the entire future anyway. I judged that the right move was to guide things in the direction I wanted, towards the picture I was painting.


    Ah, right. Thank you for the presents.


    This is nothing. Please take good care of our Taeguk Shield.


    I think even Miss Junghye wouldnt have been able to figure out my disposition so well and manage to dangle a carrot in front of me. I am thankful for the sincerity you have shown me.


    Song Kiyeols eyes grew wide.State: Happy / Surprised / Huge Sense of Aplishment


    I didnt think I said much, and certainly nothing that should have made him feel happy, surprised, or even a huge sense of aplishment. But in any case, Kiyeols state changed in a very positive way.


    Therefore, I will not say anything to Miss Junghye regarding this case or the mana crystals.


    Song Kiyeol grabbed my hand, apparently forgetting his enormous fame as a 3rd generation chaebol and the Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield. He suddenly bent low at the waist.


    Thank you. I wont disappoint you.


    He didnt need to go this far There was onest thing to say.


    If it looks like you will sh with Imperialism, contact me.Summary: Guildmaster who met a Reliable Hyung


    But he was actually way older than me


    Song Kiyeol squeezed my hand.


    Thank you.


    * * *


    * * *


    My teammates and Iwe still didnt even have a proper guild name yetcleared the Gyeonghoeru field multiple times.


    Shabam. Hyukjin. I gotta say, youre like a real scumbag. Like for reals.


    How so?


    We have to grind anyway, but you threatened all sorts of quests out of Miss Senia. We have to do this anyway, but youre just shamelessly squeezing her dry.


    Like you said, we have to do this anyway. Im just doing it in the most efficient way.


    Quests with time limits. Quests that gave special rewards. Quests where one of us didnt move. In truth, they were all minor quests that couldnt be called main quests. All of them were given independently by Senia.


    Doesnt giving quests also take Coins?


    Yoohyun rubbed his nose. Theyre not Hyungnims Coins anyway, so who cares?


    But that slender and beautiful angels Coins are being stripped away!


    Do you dislike it, then?


    No, I love it. Sung-gu stared at me with a snicker. I love you, Hyukjin. I love that youre a scumbag.


    <em>Brrr</em>


    Was it my imagination, or did Isabels de tremble just now?


    In any case, we cleared Senias quests. Since they werent big quests, the rewards themselves were also small, but we were still able to secure a few more Coins and a few more rewards. And since the quests added a little more variety to our ying, the number of Guardians leaving the channel should naturally be reduced.


    Yeonseo asked, Boss Hyukjin. Theres no sense of tension here anymore. Its no fun. Cant we go clear some other ce?


    Nope.


    Ah! Whyyyyy!


    Leveling is slower in other ces. Our goal is level 40.


    It was boring, but there was no helping it. This was the fastest route to get into the mid-game. We had to continue this boring work for at least three months.


    Actually, even three months is super fast.


    Yeonseo pouted her lips a little. She pretended to sulk with an obviously fake voice. Hng. Okipoki.


    ...


    Why was it that the Shin Yeonseo I was personally experiencing seemed awfully different from the Shin Yeonseo I saw through mass media?


    Whatever. Its not important.


    Yeonseos personality and cutesy act were secondary; her skills were the real deal. I had yet toe across any yers with sses rted to the sword more outstanding than Yeonseo.


    Sunghyun said, The levels of the Korean server yers are rising quickly thanks to Hyung.


    That was especially true for the top Rankers. The phrase the rich get richer, the poor get poorer was going around in the media, and it was also called a social issue. That was because we were still in the transition phase.


    The rich getting richer, the poor getting poorer is going to be even more severe here on out.


    As unfortunate as it was, this thing called ying was strictly ruled by talent. The ideal society would only get further and further away. In sports, talent wasmonly said to be king, but talent was even more important in ying, to the point that if you werent born with talent, it was almost impossible to seed in ying.


    It was truly unfortunate, but that was reality.


    Sunhwa seemed a little displeased by something. But you know, my oppa is the one who shared the strategy but everyone thinks its Taeguk Shield who did it. I dont like that.


    She was pursing her lips and whining, so I rubbed her head. Somehow, this kid was really cute when she was grumbling. Oftentimes, she reminded me of a puppy.


    In any case, we were in the middle of clearing the Gyeonghoeru on repeat. A lot of other yers were challenging the Gyeonghoeru, and the number of yers who went missing or died rose proportionately. Day by day, new incidents popped up.


    <em>New monster appeared in Siheung.</em>


    <em>Monkey monster found at the Bugak Palgakjeong Pavilion.</em>


    <em>The 10 reckless yers who challenged the Gyeonghoeru field.</em>


    And in the end, Taeguk Shield also took action.


    <em>Taeguk Shield expands into the Boracay server.</em>


    <em>The first Korean guild to officially expand into a different server.</em>


    They would probably be able to acquire mana crystals, even if they had to go to war with Imperialism. Of course, Taeguk Shield was the focus of the media. They were a guild strong enough to control the press. It was only natural.


    Lets stop here for today. Dont waste your strength on pointless things and rest. Ill see you all tomorrow.


    Our average level was now 35. Leveling would get even harder from here on out.


    Ill just do three PVPs before I go home.


    ...


    There was no use trying to stop hershe wouldnt listen. Besides, Yeonseo wouldnt tire even after three rounds of PVP. I just let her be.


    We all parted ways. I got into the super high ss sedan Song Kiyeol prepared for me. The driver greeted me respectfully.


    I will escort you home infort, sir.


    He gave me an excessively servile bow. I told him time and time again that he didnt need to be so polite, but he kept it up anyway, and I gave up. If this was what he wasfortable with, it was better to just let him be.


    I let myself rx into the First ss cabin seat.


    It <em>is </emfortable, to be sure.


    Sunhwa was already snoozing away on the seat next to mine. She must have been tired.


    Should have gotten one sooner.


    I should have asked for a car earlier. We could simply get in without having to deal with any hassle. It was way nicer and morefortable than buying a car myself.


    Huh?


    I hastily pressed the inte button.


    Mister, hold on one sec.


    The car came to a stop.


    Please wait here for a moment.


    I heard the driver acquiesce over the inte, and I got out of the car. Here, in the vicinity of the Gwanghwamun Dungeon, I spotted someone walking with quick strides.


    Why is he here?


    A certain yer that shouldnt be in the Korean server at this point in time had made an appearance.

 Chapter 147

    Chapter 147


    <em>Getting to visit Korea, the powerhouse of PVP and GVG, is an enjoyable and interesting experience for me. I wish to express my thanks to the yers Association and the people of Korea for weing my first visit to Korea.</em>


    Those were the words spoken by the Great Explorer Jackson when he visited Korea. Jackson went diligently from country to country for the sake of exploration, but he visited Korea a littleter than the rest.


    Why is Jackson in Korea at this point in time?


    Did things change from the past?


    Or was Jackson here in the past, too?


    And he just so happened to be near the presently unclearable Gwanghwamun Dungeon.


    A coincidence?


    It could be a coincidence. But it was also possible it wasnt a coincidence. The chances were 50-50.


    Guess I need to meet him real quick.


    I hurriedly moved to follow Jackson. I was doing my best to chase him, but he suddenly disappeared from my view. It didnt feel like he disappeared with a pop. Rather, it was like he naturally disappeared, even though I was definitely watching him.


    Where did he go?


    I didnt activate Observers Eye to try and find him. There was a very high chance he disappeared from my view like this because he realized I was tailing him. Jackson had recognized my existence, so he would approach me on his own terms.


    Sure enough, I heard a voice.


    Why are you following me?


    That one sentence gave me a big shock.


    Fluent Korean?


    I scanned Jacksons eyes with Observers Eye. It was possible he had a trantion artifact. I searched for the energy and flow of such an item, but I couldnt see any.


    He doesnt have a trantion item.


    Which meant Jackson was actually speaking Korean.


    You know how to speak Korean?


    Yes. Ive been very interested in Korea from a young age.


    Jackson shrugged. He didnt appear to be terribly wary of me.


    The Great Explorer was in Korea at this time.


    And he knew how to speak Korean.


    Why did he pretend like he had never visited Korea before, and act like he couldnt speak Korean? I clearly remembered seeing Jackson on TV in the past.


    <em>Ah, this thing? Its a trantion item I recently obtained. Thanks to it, traveling the world has be a lot easier. Korean? I had no time to study it. Well, the world has be much more convenient. With just this one item, we can converse so easily.</em>


    But the current Jackson was speaking Korean, and very fluently, at that.


    May I ask what your name is?


    My name is Jackson. He stared at me. I think its time for me to ask a question now.


    ...


    Why did you follow me? Are you perhaps gay?


    No, thats not it.


    He grinned. Its alright. Im pretty handsome, after all. I am an unprejudiced person.


    I decided not to lie. This person realized that I was following me, and he used a method of concealment slightly different in feeling than Stealth. All of it was evidence that this mans skills were indeed not ordinary.


    Eye of Perception once again verified that he wasnt ordinary.[The targets information cannot be read due to a special power.]


    It was the same as Sung-gu. He was someone whose status I couldnt read, someone affected by a special power.


    I will be honest with you. I know the future, to some extent.


    Oh? Are you a Future Sight user?


    Jackson looked at me with interest.[Eye of Perception detects a foreign energy.]


    The interesting thing was that Eye of Perception was unable to determine exactly what that foreign energy was. That was how stealthy Jacksons ability was.


    Its probably something like Eye of Truth.


    I wouldnt tell any lies. I would only slightly tweak the truth. I couldnt see the full future, but it was true that I knew the future. The truth of that statement was surely conveyed to Jackson.


    You dont seem to be lying. So? What does someone who can see the future want with me?


    I want to tell you your future.


    My future?


    I knew Jacksons future. He would be the Great Explorer who shared an enormous number of strategies and hidden pieces, bing renowned worldwide.


    What is my future like?


    It looks like you risk your life to explore. I see all sorts of dangerous things.


    ...


    I can see not just the future, but also a little of the past.


    Whats my past like?


    I wanted to know why this Great Explorer was in front of the Gwanghwamun Dungeon at this point in time. In order to obtain what I wanted to know, I had to give Jackson informationpelling enough to put me in his good graces. Information that was extremely well known in the future.


    In the field where you underwent the Tutorial, you may have survived through cowardly means.


    ...


    Jackson flinched. He was smiling calmly, but I saw the change.


    <em>I abandoned my teammate like a coward and survived. I threw my most precious friend to a Lycanthrope and survived.</em>


    The story about Jackson and his closest friend, Renton, was extremely famous.


    <em>Back then that was the only method I could see.</em>


    Should they both die, or should only one person survive? At that crossroad, Jackson made the choice to have one person survive. And of course, that one person was Jackson.


    That may have be the greatest source of guilt in your heart.


    That choice wasnt wrong. He made the best decision he could at that moment. I would have done the same.


    May I give you one piece of advice as well? Jackson asked.


    What is your advice?


    Do not carelessly divulge the future.


    Those words were parallel to what the Astrologist Itachi and countless other Future Sight users said. But how did Jackson already know that? The side effects of divulging the future would only bemon knowledge muchter.


    Howe?


    In the texts of a certain dungeon, it was written that those who see the future must fear the future. That there is nothing more foolish and reckless than divulging the future that is toe.


    He had already found that kind of information, and in the <em>beginner </em>period..


    I see. Thank you for the advice. Actually, I am already familiar with the side effects and dangers of speaking about the future. After all, I am someone who possesses such an ability.


    I continued to feel the foreign energy prickling at me. Jackson was exploring me with some kind of method, and at my current level, I couldnt concretely determine what that energy was.


    This is fun.


    Standing before me was the worlds best yer in the explorer ss. No, the yer with the qualities to <em>be</em> the worlds best.


    But even so, he cant be at a higher level than me.


    I didnt think there was anyone who could be, other than the Demon King Kang Sun-il. Granted, there were certainly Irregrs like Ahn Seohye out there, but at least right now, Jackson wasnt one.


    I dont get the feeling of an Irregr from him.


    To be more precise, he gave off an Irregr-like feeling, butcked an Irregrs undeniable mark. It was a sense I couldnt quite put into words. As soon as I saw Ahn Seohye, I clearly felt, Shes an Irregr! It was like she was enveloped in a thin veil I should somehow be able to see with my eyes.


    Something was a little off.


    For now, the right call is to consider him as an Irregr.


    I couldnt read his status, so I could only trust my intuition.


    * * *


    * * *


    The reason I sought you out despite knowing the dangers and mentioned your future and past is


    You seem to want something from me.


    I gave him the information I could give, and did my best to instill trust in him. Not trust in me, but in the ability I possessed.


    Why did youe to Korea?


    To explore.


    Is it your first visit?


    Jackson answered me straightforwardly. No. Its my third.


    His third time?


    When did you first visit Korea?


    When the Tutorial Field appeared in Jongno.


    Then that was almost half a year ago. That gave me one hint.


    This is unrted to me changing things. Jackson came to Korea independently of the butterfly effect I caused.


    I was wondering if his presence had something to do with Taeguk Shields expansion into Boracay, but that didnt seem to be the case. He had already visited Korea three times.


    This is fun, said Jackson. You are aware that I am analyzing you with a special power, yes?


    Yes.


    Most people dont know. Amazing. Jacksons eyes narrowed. Lately, I feel like somethings weird about Korea.


    Whats weird?


    ces that should have definitely had dungeon breaks didnt break, and considering the level of the Korean yers, there should have been greater losses, but there hasnt been. Its almost as if someone has been artificially stopping such disasters from happening.


    I decided to tell the truth here as well.


    Greater losses should have urred in the future I know as well.


    That wasnt a lie. In the future I knew, both the Seoul Station Dungeon and the U-Plex Dungeon had broken.


    I know the yers of Korea are currently being led by a prominent guild called Taeguk Shield. But no matter how I think about it, I dont think Taeguk Shield alone could have achieved it. Koreas current situation, I mean. Jackson didnt take his eyes off me. Seeing you, I think Im starting to know the reason.


    What do you mean?


    There are traces of a hero on you. This is evidenced on a yers body as something called [Achievement]. Like a scar that cannot be erased, Achievement is a stigma one cannot hide.


    Jackson smiled lightly. I dont know <em>how </em>you rued so many Achievements. But as far as I can tell, you He paused for a moment, then gave what sounded like his honest guess. ...have a truly powerful ability to see the future. So powerful I cannot even begin to fathom it.


    ...


    I call such people Prophets.


    Apparently, he judged that I was a perfect Prophet.


    Im sure its thanks to you that Korea didnt take much damage.


    ...


    Jackson grabbed my hands.


    Despite already knowing the side effects of divulging the future, you did so without restraint.


    Ah


    I never really divulged the future. The [Achievement] Jackson spoke of were things I did on my own. Starting from the Tutorial, all the way to the current Gyeonghoeru.


    Ever since the Tutorial, I have been in constant worry and agony. I tossed aside my friend and survived as a result. That has be an unerasable source of guilt in my heart and has been tormenting me.


    That was why he decided.


    So I decided to use the rest of my life for others, to save as many peoples lives as I could. To devote this meager life that barely managed to subsist by selling out Renton. That was why I started exploring. Because this is something I can do well, at least.


    I had already heard this before. The reason why Jackson kept doing the dangerous act of exploration, and why he shared the fruits of that exploration with the world. His underlying motivation was something anyone from the future would know.


    Thats why I am so happy and d to have met someone like you. Its kind of like Ive met a brother in arms with the same intent.


    I stared at Jacksons hands, which were wrapped around mine. Maybe he had hyperhidrosis; his hands were sweating a lot.


    I could feel honesty from Jacksons words, as well as a wish. Because I had already experienced Noonas strong wish, I could easily pick up on the wish within his words.


    Jackson wasnt lying.


    Hes being sincere.


    That was also evidenced by his future actions. He was definitely being sincere. However


    A strange dj vu.


    There was something vaguely off. I felt a strange sense of dj vu. His words, his actions, his expression, and even all of his actions in the future. There wasnt anything strange about them, yet they were strange. I couldnt say exactly what was weird. Something just felt <em>off.</em> This was all intuition.


    But may I ask how long youve been studying Korean? At your level, I would believe you if you said you were Korean.


    He was way better at Korean than most Koreans. Agony. Achievement. Traces. Subsist. Devote. His vocabry was really formidable for a foreigner.


    An explorer who, ording to the future, shouldnt be here.


    A great yer giving off a strange feeling of dj vu.


    A person who, ording to the future, couldnt speak Korean.


    And yet, here he was, speaking to me in extremely fluent Korean.


    What could it be?


    Why was it strange? I still didnt know why I got that feeling of wrongness from Jackson. I decided to throw out a fastball.


    Why did youe to the Gwanghwamun Dungeon?

 Chapter 148

    Chapter 148


    Jackson responded.


    Im here in order to find the Eastern Star. Its one of my main scenarios.


    The Eastern Star?


    Jackson shared most of his scenarios, clear methods, and monster-killing methods. The Great Explorer Jackson was a VIP in every country, and his information was essentially public property of humanity. He was a paragon and a hero who offered everything for themon good.


    I dont remember a scenario called Eastern Star.


    The Jackson now, in the beginning days of ying, vs. the Jackson I knew. There was definitely some kind of difference between the two. A difference that had nothing to do with my existence as a regressor.


    Would you be willing to tell me what that is?


    Sure, since I have a good feeling about you.


    Jacksons exnation wasntplicated.


    ...So youre saying this Eastern Star is a type of king candidate?


    Yes. I dont know what a king is yet, either.


    This Jackson was searching for a king. He was different from the Jackson I knew. I couldnt look at him with Eye of Perception right nowhe was being protected by a special power.


    If it is alright with you, may I inquire about your ss?


    My ss is [Exploring Baptist].


    The ss Jackson said he had in the past was [Exploring Pilgrim]. Did the Jackson I knew lie, or was Exploring Pilgrim the higher level of Exploring Baptist?


    Baptist.


    Pilgrim.


    They were words in the same vein.


    What puzzle piece am I missing?


    I couldnt figure it out.


    Since Ive revealed my ss, could I also inquire about yours?


    My ss is I looked around once. Observing Sovereign.


    It was seven parts truth, three parts lie.


    Though if you really nitpick, it does seem like three parts truth, seven parts lie.


    In any case, it wasnt really a lie. I was an observer, and at the same time, I fulfilled the role of a sovereign.


    Observing Sovereign It sounds like a great ss. Somehow, I get the feeling we will meet again.


    Jackson dipped his head towards me, but then, something seemed to suddenly ur to him.


    Ah, right. Do you happen to have an artifact rted to a king?


    An artifact rted to a king?


    I did.


    [Old Crown]


    A crown symbolizing the authority of a king. Though it is made of glittering gold, the passing of many years has greatly aged the relic.


    It was the reward I got from clearing the Early Adopter scenario of the Gwanghwamun Dungeon.


    I dont.


    I see. He asked me another question. Is there perhaps a crown in the future you see?


    At that moment, I was ovee with that strange feeling of dj vu again.


    He specifically asked about a crown. What does this mean?


    I made it very clear. There is definitely no crown in the future I see.


    There was a crown in my past, but not in the future, so this wasnt a lie.


    Eye of Perception sensed some kind of energy.[Detecting a foreign energy.]


    It definitely belonged to Jackson. He was probably trying to verify the truth of my words. I spoke the truth. I had a crown in the present, but there was no crown in the future I knew and saw.


    I see. I understand. This has been truly instructive.


    The dj vu disappeared. With a good-natured smile, Jackson said, I intend on exploring the Gwanghwamun Dungeon. I will contact you if Ie across any good information. Could you give me your number?


    We exchanged numbers. And with that, I established a hotline with the Great Explorer himself.


    * * *


    * * *


    Back inside the car, Sunhwa was long asleep, and I fell into thought.


    In this world there are things I didnt know.


    The governments duplicitous announcement regarding the Six-Tailed Fox.


    The unknown beings who were cultivating Predator Trees.


    A Guardian who wanted the Red Eyes, as well as the Blood and Iron Queen Song Junghye who wanted them as well.


    And even my machine-determined evaluation of No Talent. Little by little, I was uncovering things that were different from what I knew. No, to be more precise, they were things I didnt know.


    On top of that, the Great Explorer appeared in Korea.


    He definitely seems like an Irregr, but he doesnt have the mark of one.


    It wasnt all that unusual that a Ranker and skilled yer of his level, a person who was praised as the Hero of the World, was an Irregr.


    But that Irregr feeling is


    I couldnt be sure, but


    Its simr to the feeling I got from Seohyes Red Eyes.


    It was subtly simr, but not. So subtle that if I hadnt personally met and observed Ahn Seohye when she had the Red Eyes, I wouldnt have been able to feel it.


    It <em>is </em>simr in feeling to the Red Eyes.


    I had neither evidence nor reasoning. Just feeling.


    I


    I decided to base my judgment on the assumption that Jackson from the future came to the Gwanghwamun Dungeon at this time, too. Big currents in time wouldnt change unless someone forcefully diverted their path.


    The Eastern Star


    A king candidate.


    This timelines Jackson is here.


    But the future Jackson never said he was in Korea before. He even pretended he couldnt speak Korean.


    Somethings fishy.


    I didnt know what it was, but I decided to be suspicious for now. Why did the future Jackson cover up the fact he yed in Korea before?


    Even though he revealed all the high ss info he obtained.


    Why?


    There was either a matter in Korea that he absolutely had to hide, or the [True Scenario] hes doing takes ce in Korea.


    It was possible the strategies and info he shared were extremely useful and outstanding to other people, but to Jackson, they were meaningless. Therefore, he publicized the meaningless information and kept the information he truly needed to himself.


    Its still just an inference.


    I couldnt rule out the possibility that the past and the present may have really changed. I decided to keep every theory open. While lost in thought, we arrived home.


    We had cleared the Gyeonghoeru field a ton. I decided to rest a little.


    * * *


    The currently 14-year-old soon to be 15 years oldSong Jinchul threw his game console. The device cost a whopping $6k, but that didnt matter at all to him.


    Ah seriously, so boring.


    Right on cue, he heard footsteps outside his Gaming Room. He couldnt see who was outside the door, but he knew who it was.


    Ajumma! Come in for a sec!


    TN: Ajumma is the Korean word for married, middle-aged woman.


    She was one of the countless housekeepers working at his house. He didnt know her name or her age. A housekeeper was simply a housekeeper.


    Sure enough, a woman in her 40s came into the room, her back respectfully bent.


    Please excuse my intrusion.


    Get rid of all of this. Ptui!


    Jinchul intentionally spat all around him. The woman took out a rag from her pocket and wiped away the gobs of saliva, as if such an incident was an everyday urrence.


    Ah seriously, so frustrating. Who the hell is that Kim Hyukjin? Just who the hell?!


    Before, his grandpas attention had been his, and his alone. His mom and dad were dead anyway. His older brother and sister were duking it out for the session of thepany. Jinchul didnt give a rats ass about the session choice. He only needed his grandpas love and attention.


    To make matters worse, he heard his older sister say, Im gonna go meet that Kim Hyukjin guy.


    His sister going out to meet someone in person wasnt amon urrence. Normally, people came to meet her, not the other way around.


    The oldest, my brother, is interested in him. The second oldest, my sister, is interested in him too.


    Not just grandpa, but even his brother and sister both showed immense interest in Kim Hyukjin. To his young eyes, his brother was almost entirely converted to Team Kim Hyukjin. Kim Hyukjin? Who the hell was he? Was he more amazing than their Sungshin?


    Jinchul spoke to the woman who was kneeling as she cleaned.


    Ajumma. Answer me.


    Yes, Young Master. Please go ahead.


    Is ying that amazing?


    There was a manual in ce for the housekeepers. She answered mechanically.


    I apologize, Young Master. Im not sure.


    That was all she had to say. It wasnt a conversation. Just inputs and predetermined outputs. The pay was way higher than other ces, so she simply endured and worked in silence.


    Im wondering if I should just go and y, too. Should be a lot more fun than these shitty games.


    In the future Kim Hyukjin knew, Song Jinchul didnt have much interest in ying. It was dangerous and annoying, and he already had money and fame. It was his opinion that he should just live his life using plenty of the money he had.


    That was why Song Jinchul ended up taking his talent te exam with a scowling face when Kim Hyukjin was 25, so when Jinchul was 19. And it just so happened that Hyukjins result came out as 67 at that time.


    Its just cause I havent tried, but if I do it, Im gonna be fucking awesome at it. You think so too, right?


    Of course. Youre great at everything once you set your mind to it, Young Master.


    His ruffled feathers smoothed by those words, the first year middle schooler Jinchul waved his hand, saying, Enough, go on out. He firmly resolved himself.


    This wont do. Ive gotta go do that talent te exam or whatever its called.


    His foray into ying was moved forward by five years. Yet another small change began to ur due to Kim Hyukjins existence.


    * * *


    A weird rumor was going around the DMC Riverview Xi.


    No idea. I think some rich madam bought them all up in one go?


    I hear they offered way more than the market price.


    Its because our DMC Riverview Xis status and value have skyrocketed.


    But even so isnt it a little weird that six goldilocks apartments were bought in one go? I heard the gross price was $1.5 million each, $1.2 million before taxes.


    Youre right. No matter how you think about it six apartments getting sold when weve only got sixty in ourplex is definitely strange.


    It was just a rumor, but word was going around that someone purchased a bunch of ideally located apartments for $300k more than the market price. The previous owners were charmed by the big numbers and immediately vacated their homes.


    And I hear all their moving fees were covered.


    In any case, our house prices should go up a lot, too.


    Whatever it is, its good for us.


    About half of that was the truth.


    Floor 14, room 1: the Poison Witch Cheon Sooji.


    Floor 14, room 2: the Taeguk Shield Song Kiyeol.


    TN: Reminder that Taeguk Shield is the name of the guild as well as the moniker of Song Kiyeol.


    Floor 15, room 1: Kim Hyukjin and his family.


    Floor 15, room 2: Shin Yeonseo and Ahn Seohye.


    Floor 16, room 1: Jo Sunghyun and Choi Sung-gu.


    Floor 16, room 2: So Yoohyun.


    They ended up moving in like that. Hyukjins new condo was thergest in theplex, 200 sq. meters.


    There, Hyukjin conversed with Song Kiyeol.


    Mr. Song Kiyeol. I hear youve bought a condo on the 14th floor?


    I figured there had to be a reason a person who could see the future specifically picked this ce, so I just bought one.


    By giving $300k more than the market price?


    Yes. I took care of all the expenses, including the moving expenses.


    Sungshin is indeed rich.


    But even for Sungshin, it had to be quite the hefty sum.


    Its on the small side for an investment on thepany level. Normally, an investment of several hundreds of millions is standard.


    And howe Miss Cheon Sooji is here?


    She has always wanted toe here.


    Did the Guildmaster tell her that I would be moving here?


    Not quite. Because this investment was made by Taeguk Shield, it was something Sooji could not help but know.


    Hyukjin thought back to his encounter with Cheon Sooji in the elevator. She slipped him a piece of paper, whispering, This is the passcode to my house. Youre wee at any time, even at night.


    Of course, he ripped that paper to pieces.


    I dont intend on moving in myself. I only purchased one.


    Kiyeol was talking about buying a condo like buying groceries at the supermarket. It was as hard as ever for Hyukjin to understand the way chaebols thought and operated. In any case, six of the top Rankers from his past life ended up moving into the DMC Riverview Xi. Cheon Sooji and Song Kiyeol were also Rankers, after all.


    A 1st generation yer town was developing before him.


    Hyukjin called his party members for a meeting. Joining them was Ahn Seohye, who wasnt a formal member of the party.


    Good work moving in, everyone.


    The issue of their new living arrangements wasnt important. The more important topic wasing up.


    As you all know, we need to keep clearing the Gyeonghoeru field. As tedious as it is.


    But they couldnt bet their lives on just the Gyeonghoeru.


    Sunhwa. Youre still doing what I told you to do before, right?


    Before he went into the Gyeonghoeru field for the first time, Hyukjin asked Sunhwa to do something.


    Of course! Here. This is what youre talking about, right?


    As the party members, Sunhwa took something out. Sung-gus eyes went round.


    Hmmm? Whats this? It looks expensive!

 Chapter 149

    Chapter 149


    There were three big reasons why the area around the DMC Riverview Xi was one of the most expensive ces to live in my past life.


    First: It was a yer town made up of the highest level yers.


    Second: The Korean yers Association building was directly around the corner.


    Third: A powerful, growth-type Guardian Tower called Megalodon was situated there.


    And I knew. The Guardian Gems that were materials for summoning Guardian Towers were generated at Gajwa Station, and only yers could acquire them.


    She did a good job finding them.


    Before I went into the Gwanghwamun Dungeon for the first time, I gave Sunhwa a task.


    <em>What should I do, then?</em>


    <em>I need you to find Guardian Gems. We need ten of them. Also, Seohye is going to be moving in, so help her out. Help her set up a protective barrier, too.</em>


    The groundwork Iid back then was very nearlying to fruition today.


    In Sunhwas cupped hands were gems the size of apricots. Yeonseo took one, squirming. Wo. So pretty! Ive never seen anything this pretty! Never! Never ever! Pretty stone! Amazing!


    Yeonseo marveled all on her own. The Guardian Gems were small, sparkling stones. Their surface was one wless curve, and light that shone through them was cast into colorful kaleidoscopes. Darongi was sleeping in Stealth mode on my shoulder.


    [Guardian Gem]


    A gem that can summon a Guardian Tower. 10 Guardian Gems are required to summon a Guardian Tower.<ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    The type of summoned Guardian Tower is random.</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    In the case of a growth-type Guardian Tower, the Guardian Towers initial ability will be set ording to the summoners enhancement talent.</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    The Guardian Field where Guardian Gems can be used is not publicly disclosed.</li></ul>


    Yeonseo poked a Guardian Gem with her index finger.


    Wow. Its so pretty.


    Like the Two-Faced Swordswoman she was, Yeonseo lookedpletely different from when she was PVPing. Her eyes were curved into the pretty smile that gave rise to the Sword Empress Crush Syndrome as she continued to praise the Guardian Gem, looking totally enraptured.


    Give this to me, she demanded.


    No can do.


    Whyyy! Ill go on a date with you.


    Thats a double no.


    Why! Arent I pretty?


    Yeonseo sidled up quite close to me. Sticking herself right next to me, she looked up at me, blinking in a way that made her look truly innocent.


    I could tell with Eye of Perception and Observers Eye whether this girl was making a calcted and intentional move right now, or if she was just acting in the mannerisms that were natural to her. It was thetter. She just naturally did this. I didnt think I would evere to like Yeonseo as a woman, but regardless, I also didnt think I would evere to dislike her as a person.


    Nope. Not pretty.


    Thats weird. People keep telling me Im pretty.


    Sung-gu snickered. I think Hyukjins the only human who can talk to Yeonseo like that.


    Yoohyun seemedpletely unmoved by the brilliance of Guardian Gems or the future Sword Empress smiling eyes. He formed his two massive hands into fists. Of course, I had no idea why he was getting worked up here.


    Hyungnim. How are these things used? Are they the key to a new dungeon?


    Yoohyun was focusing on the gems true worth, their utility. I felt strong enthusiasm rippling from him.


    Im sure you can all see from the description, but Guardian Gems are literally gems for summoning a Guardian Tower.


    I decided to give them a little run-down before summoning the Guardian Tower.


    * * *


    * * *


    Choi Sung-gu shook his head in a semnce of terror. I really wonder sometimes if this guy is human. He stared at Kim Hyukjin like he was really terrified. How and where did you get that kind of info?


    Easily.


    He nodded at Hyukjins half-hearted response. Yeah, yeah. Figures. Geniuses are all like that. Ask em how, and they just say its easy. Scowling, he shivered. Eurgh, unfair af. I only studied the textbook a bit, and I got 100% on the SAT~ How are you any different from those kinds of hateful geniuses?


    Hyukjin ignored Sung-gus monologue. The me magician was the type of person who could keep up a whole conversation all by himself with zero input from the other party. He kept grumbling, saying, Eurgh. Unfair af. Hes too good, it''s frustrating. Fuck.


    Sunghyun calmly returned to the topic at hand. So a Guardian Tower is a dungeon or gate within a set zone. In addition, its a shield of sorts that blocks the appearance of monsters?


    Yes.


    Everyone understood what I was saying.


    And that shield can be summoned using these Guardian Gems.


    Yep.


    So we probably have to start looking for the summoning location, the Guardian Field, right?


    Sunhwa smiled brightly. I already found it!


    She looked at Hyukjin with a toothy smile. He knew what she wanted, and gave her head a quick rub. For some reason, Sunhwa had an abnormal fondness for getting her head patted. He couldnt understand it. Getting your head rubbed just put more oil on your scalp. What was so good about it? He only did it because Sunhwa liked it.


    Sunhwas boasting didnt stop there. Right, right, allow me to borate. I investigated the Guardian Gems and Guardian Field! Her chest puffing up, Sunhwa looked at all of the unnies and oppas gathered in turn, before proudly continuing. Ahem. Oppa told me Guardian Gems could be found in Gajwa Station, so I went and looked for them every day. Seohye and I found the Guardian Field together.


    Wha? Youve already found everything? Sung-gu, who was still mumbling about unfairness, gave her a look of surprise. How?


    I found it while helping Seohye make a barrier. When you go to that field, the Guardian Gems start shining with rainbow light.


    Shabam? Whats this about a barrier? This chicks barriers are scary af.


    Oppa told her to do it.


    Kim Hyukjin, <em>again</em>?


    To summarize, Hyukjin had Seohye move to the house next door, then instructed her to set up some kind of long-term barrier there.


    And in the meantime, he had Sunhwa look for Guardian Gems.


    Moreover


    <em>And</em> he even had her find the Guardian Field? Ah you really are one crazy bastard. So basically, Hyukjin orchestrated everything?


    Guardian Gems. Guardian Field. Even Seohyes barrier. Sung-gu asked, as if honestly curious, But seriously, Hyukjin. Friend. How do you know this sort of stuff? You werent just clearing the Gyeonghoeru with us the whole time, huh?


    Sunhwa answered Sung-gu in Hyukjins ce.


    Its because my oppa is a genius.


    And then, she started giggling, and maybe herugh was infectious, because Yeonseo joined in, saying, Yep! Totes agree! Hahaha! The two weirdos were on the same wavelength or something and did a high-five with perfect timing.


    The two of them often talked about pointless things. Yeonseo grinned at Sunhwa. Sunhwa, do you like your oppa or hamburgers more?


    Yoohyun trumpeted, Of course she likes Hyungnim, who buys her the hamburgers!


    I asked Sunhwa, not you, you muscle mountain.


    Yoohyun gave a pathetic whimper that didnt match his massive frame and strength, then shut his mouth, his bulky forearms standing out prominently the whole time.


    Sunhwa gave her answer. I like my oppa who eats hamburgers together with me!


    Ahn Seohye simply watched all of this happen from the sidelines.


    What is this feeling?


    This person called Kim Hyukjin was truly fascinating. Everything seemed to happen with him at the center of it all, and all these people gathered around him. Here, in this ce full of people, she thought she could feel some kind of warm feeling shed never experienced before.


    Hyukjin nced at Seohye from the corner of his eye.


    Ahn Seohye. She was supposed to be the future Red Demon. But he had removed the Red Eyes from her, and it was currently in his possession. He was ying tug of war with the Shepherd Boy for this mysterious item, and Song Junghye was looking for it as well.


    The Red Eyes aside, in Hyukjins eyes, Seohye seemed to be in a pretty good mood. He also had a feeling that the darkness he had seen in her had grown much less intense.


    I think that about does it for the exnation. Were gonna go create a Guardian Tower now.


    If a Guardian Tower appeared here, this area would be extremely safe. Of course, there was no guarantee a Guardian Tower could do anything about an incident on the level of a cmity. But something like that was no different from a natural disaster that ignored the norms. That wasnt something humans could prepare for. Hyukjin was well aware of that and epted it.


    He took the lead, and all his party members followed.


    * * *


    The DMC Riverview Xi was a massiveplex. The road betweenplex 1 andplex 2 was a road with sixnes both ways. I stopped in front of the crosswalk that spanned the road.


    In the middle of the crosswalk.


    I couldnt block off the road, so I had to wait until the crosswalk was green to destroy the Guardian Gems one by one. I checked the Guardian Gems description one more time.<ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    The type of summoned Guardian Tower is random.</li><li>In the case of a growth-type Guardian Tower, the Guardian Towers initial ability will be set ording to the summoners enhancement talent.</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    The Guardian Field where Guardian Gems can be used is not publicly disclosed.</li></ul>


    In the past, the growth-type Guardian Tower Megalodon was created here.


    Even on a worldwide level, Megalodon ranked among the very powerful Guardian Towers.


    Who summoned Megalodon here in the past?


    If enhancement talent yed a part, only one of the famous Masters could have summoned such a tower.


    Who was it?


    I rifled through my memories and thought of all the Masters who started bing active about now, but I couldnt figure it out. I didnt know much about Masters, unfortunately.


    Hyungnim. Will you destroy the gems?


    Yeonseo stared at the Guardian Gems with deep, deep regret. From the looks of it, she really liked them.


    Yeah. Ill do it.


    I had already confirmed my enhancement talent through several enhancements. I wasnt level 40 yet, so I couldnt be sure, but at least in the beginner period, my enhancement talent was world-ss.


    And I also have Observers Eye.


    Enhancement was fundamentally based on talent, but it was also greatly influenced by environmental factors. For example, if you were trying to enhance a fire-attribute item, a ce with lots of heat energy was most favorable. As an extreme example, enhancing a fire-attribute item was very easy if done in the vicinity of an active volcano.


    The environment. The optimal location. The best timing.


    I could discern those. Observers Eye made it possible. The crosswalk sign turned green for the first time. I just crossed.


    Eh? Hyukjin. Howe you didnt dommph!


    Sunghyun covered Sung-gus mouth. Shut up for a moment. Hyukjin hyung is concentrating right now.


    Mmpgh! Mmpgh!


    Thanks to Sunghyun, I was able to concentrate more. I walked across several more times. I didnt keep an exact count, but it was probably at least ten. Thirty minutes also passed, but no one expressed anyints.


    The sound of the cars. The people crossing the road. The guys behind me. The ce Im standing. The flow of the air right now. Each and every one of these things is an influencing factor.


    That was why I had no choice but to be careful. After some time passed, I discovered the optimal timing in the middle of the crosswalk.


    Now!


    I crushed one of the rainbow Guardian Gems.


    [The Guardian Gems power is permeating the Guardian Field.]


    [The Guardian Gems power is taking a potent effect.]


    Another long stretch of time passed, and I broke another Guardian Gem.


    [The Guardian Gems power is permeating the Guardian Field.]


    [The Guardian Gems power is taking a potent effect.]


    That was enough for one day. It didnt seem like something I could do in one go.


    Lets go clear the Gyeonghoeru.


    The Guardian Tower was important, but our steady level grinding was important as well. The partys average level was 35. That was also my level.


    Four days passed in a simr fashion. We continued clearing the Gyeonghoeru, and I continued destroying Guardian Gems. Now, there was only one Guardian Gem left.


    Once thisst gem was destroyed, the Guardian Tower would be summoned. And now was finally the time to destroy the 10th Guardian Gem.


    [The Guardian Gems power is permeating the Guardian Field.]


    [The Guardian Gems power is taking a potent effect.]

 Chapter 150

    Chapter 150


    I heard a notice.


    [The Guardian Field is determining the enhancementpetence of the yer who dissolved the Guardian Gems.]


    After making that judgment, another notice, one that Hyukjin hadnt expected, rang in his ears.


    [Based on the yers enhancementpetence, the Guardian Tower being summoned can be enhanced.]


    [The Guardian Tower enhancement will progress at random.]


    [2 additional Guardian Gems are required to enhance the Guardian Tower.]


    For a moment, I doubted my ears.


    Two more Guardian Gems?


    Normally, it only took ten Guardian Gems to summon a Guardian Tower. But right now, I was being asked for twelve.


    Twelve gems


    We didnt have time to go to Gajwa Station and look for another two gems.


    Theres no helping it.


    I turned to stare at Yeonseo.


    ...Huh? What? Yeonseo took a step backwards. Whyre you giving me such a suggestive look all of sudden? Youre making a girl sweat here.


    I never gave her a suggestive look. Yeonseo took another step back, her voice going unnaturally high.


    Hey. I dont have one. I really dont. That was my first time seeing a Guardian Gem.


    I was a little bbergasted.


    She shouldnt have even heard the notices.


    Looking at the reactions of my teammates, there was no doubt that only I heard the notice that two additional Guardian Gems would be necessary. But Shin Yeonseo had picked up on it somehow. She realized by force of intuition that the Guardian Gem in her possession was about to be pried out of her fingers. The girl took another step backwards.


    Yeonseo? I called Yeonseo like an elementary school teacher coaxing a child. Shin Yeonseo.


    I really dont


    Youre a good girl, right?


    ...


    I vividly remembered Yeonseos reaction when she first saw the Guardian Gems.


    <em>Wo. So pretty! Ive never seen anything this pretty! Never! Never ever! Pretty stone! Amazing!</em>


    The way she kept emphasizing never was unnatural, to say the least. And the most damning proof was her summary.


    Summary: Lying Swordswoman


    Normally, something like Lying Wife was supposed to show up, but this time, it said Swordswoman. From that, I judgedthat her mindset was closer to a Swordswoman than a Wife because something was pricking her conscience.


    But well, Swordswoman is better than Wife.


    Strangely enough, I didnt think of Yeonseo as a woman, even though she was the dream of all men, the subject of countless fanclubs, and the source of the countless Sword Empress Crushers of all genders. Even though anyone and everyone could see that she was a beautiful and charming girl.


    But despite that, I didnt feel anything more for her. There was no need to give her special treatment. So to me, Swordswoman was better than Wife, so I didnt call out her lie back then.


    But nows not the time to nitpick.


    I held out my hand.


    Yeonseo. I know youre hiding something.


    The countdown started.


    [120 seconds left in the Guardian Fields duration.]


    We had two minutes to get to the next part. I had to find two more Guardian Gems, and I couldnt go get them from Gajwa Station.


    I also know you really like this gem.


    Hng.


    Yeonseo looked like she was about to cry. She had apparently taken quite a shine to this Guardian Gem. Her expression was one of a girl being robbed of a truly precious toy. That face might have made some guys relent, but not me.


    So lets trade.


    * * *


    * * *


    He could take it by force, but that was thest resort. Doing so could emotionally wound an important member of their party. There were still two minutes left, so they could afford to take a slight detour. Hyukjin didnt think of Yeonseo as a girl, but he acknowledged and respected her.


    [The Merchant of Venice is watching you carefully.]


    This notice was heard not just by Hyukjin, but by Yeonseo as well. The Italian server Guardian started to focus on Yeonseo, too.


    ...Trade?


    Yeah. If you give me a Guardian Gem right now, Ill do one thing you ask of me. As long as its within my power to grant.


    ...


    The Merchant of Venice was watching. Hyukjin urged her with his eyes to answer carefully. There was one minute and thirty seconds left.


    Thene drink coffee with me.


    Coffee?


    Just the two of us.


    Sung-gu and Yoohyun coughed at the same, feigning ignorance. Yeonseos face reddened a little.


    Well drink coffee, just the two of us. For at least two hours.


    Now wasnt the time to be choosy.


    Okay. Deal.


    Friends could drink coffee together, too. Hyukjin still drew a clear line.


    But as I said before, I dont see you as a girl.


    Hmph! No one asked you about that. As ifpletely unconcerned by such a minor detail, Yeonseo stuck out her tongue, then took out a Guardian Gem from her Inventory.


    Hyukjin heard a notice.


    [The Merchant of Venice clucks their tongue at the baffling trade.]


    There was no real reward attached, but apliment was apliment. Baffling it might be, but Hyukjin got what he wanted.


    In contrast, Yeonseo heard a different notice.


    [The Merchant of Venice loses interest in you.]


    The Merchant of Venices interest in Yeonseo fizzled outpletely, but it was of zero importance to Yeonseo. She hardly ever did any ying rted to trading. As a yer specialized in 1 vs. 1 PVP, she only needed to firmly capture the hearts of the Guardians who liked PVP.


    In any case, Hyukjin got one gem. That left just one more. He had one minute left.


    Darong?


    A [!] mark popped up over Darongis head. The squirrel shook his head like a rattle and started pushing off Hyukjins shoulder, but his attempt to flee failed.


    That was because Hyukjin was holding his bushy tail. Darongi iled in midair.


    Hyukjin pulled out a fried chicken leg from his Inventory, which earned him a sincerely dumbfounded look from Sung-gu. Shabam? Why is chickening out of your Inventory?


    And it was even soy sauce chicken.


    Wanna trade for the Guardian Gem?


    [!!!] shed over Darongis head. His hesitationsted all of two seconds. The squirrel pulled out a Guardian Gem from his Inventory.


    Sunhwa stared in amazement. When did Darongi get that?


    Hard to say. He either stole it from you or secretly picked one up while following you around.


    The process didnt matter. Hyukjin remembered how this squirrel, who was a real sucker for new things, food, or things worth stealing, was sleeping on his shoulder back when Sunhwa pulled out the gems.


    But he didnt have any [zzZ] marks over his head.


    Which led Hyukjin to conclude that Darongi was pretending to sleep. Hyukjin had taken note of it all; he just didnt show that he had.


    He destroyed another two Guardian Gems.


    [The Guardian Gems power is permeating the Guardian Field.]


    [The Guardian Gems power is taking a potent effect.]


    [The Guardian Gems power is permeating the Guardian Field.]


    [The Guardian Gems power is taking a potent effect.]


    At the DMC Riverview Xi, the ground began to quake at the big road between apartmentplex 1 and 2. The passersby looked around in rm.


    Huh? Whats going on? An earthquake?


    Is it an earthquake?


    It wasnt. It was the sign of a Guardian Tower being constructed.


    [The Guardian Field is preparing to summon a Guardian Tower.]


    [The Guardian Field is starting to restrict the field.]


    Huh? Huhh? Huh?


    People started to get pushed away. As if there was some kind of invisible force acting on them, they began to get dragged to the sides of the road like someone was hauling them away by their necks.


    Ahhhh!


    Screams rang out all over the ce.


    <em>HONK! HONK! HONK!</em>


    The honking of a car split the air. It wasnt that an ident urred. It was just that one of the panicking drivers was mming their horn, which wasnt surprising considering that cars were flying off in midair. The Guardian Field was restricting the field, and everyone whocked the qualifications was being kicked out.


    Hyukjin examined his surroundings.


    Its definitely chaotic.


    Thankfully, there didnt seem to be any casualties. A few cars that were kicked out of the field suffered minor collisions. They werent serious crashes, but a few cars were dented here and there.[The Guardian Tower to be summoned has been decided.]


    It was the moment of truth. Hyukjin clenched his hands. The Guardian Tower that appeared here in the past was the growth-type Guardian Tower Megalodon. You couldnt quite call it a super top-ss tower, but it was still pretty high up there. It was that structure that made this ce, the Namgajwa neighborhood, the safest ce in Korea.


    Which Guardian Tower was it?[The Guardian Tower Tintin has been summoned.]


    The ground in the middle of the crosswalk began to writhe. Like a mole poking out its head, something shot out explosively. It was like watching a shoot germinate in 100x time. It grew like the beanstalk in Jack and the Beanstalk and became a tower about five meters high. The monument had gray bricks and a blue roof, with open gunports interspersed along the towers length.


    This Guardian Tower was one Hyukjin already knew.


    Tintin?


    It was the starting version of the super top-ss Guardian Tower Titan located in Manhattan, New York. When Tintin evolved, it turned into Titan.


    Its Tintin?


    The Guardian Tower looked the same as the Tintin he remembered. He looked at it in shock. As far as he knew, it was one of the strongest Guardian Towers on Earth.


    Yoohyun lightly touched the gray brick.


    Wow. This looks awesome, Hyungnim. Like some kind of fort, or a medieval castle.


    Aint it a little too small to be like a medieval castle, bruh? As expected, Sung-gu was very interested in Tintin. Hyukjin, bruh. Just asking for a friend, can this thing, like, transform into a robot?


    Why the hell would that happen? At Hyukjins withering gaze, Sung-gu smacked his lips with regret. Itd be damn fuckin cool if it could transform into a robot.


    The funny thing was that Tintin was originally the symbol of the sovereign ss. It was widely known that the Gold Pyramid Michelle and an American Master named Kwon worked together to summon it.


    Michelle and Kwon are said to have worked together.


    Back then, he just epted it without a second thought and moved on. But after going through the process himself, his perspective was a little different.


    Ultimately, its one person who summons the Guardian Tower. The Master Kwon summoned it, and Michelle helped a little on the side. Like Yeonseo and Darongi just now.


    The world of the top 1%, full of things that the massesincluding Hyukjinwerent aware of. The truth about the Tintin Tower in Manhattan might be a minor detail, but it was another piece of damning evidence that there really was a World Above for Rankers. There was definitely a world he hadnt known.


    Bruh. Just tell me straight. Does this thing transform into a robot, or not?


    Unable to stay silent, Sunghyun spat out one sentence. As if it could. Try using your brain a little, please.


    Cmon, why not? This is a world where you can conjure fire and wind and where cars go whee in the air, so why would a robot showing up be trigonometry?


    ...


    Sunghyun. Be honest. You like robots too, dont you? A fri~ckin transforming robot. Thats like, a guys greatest dream.


    I dont want to talk to you, Hyung.


    Hyukjin walked up to the Guardian Tower.[The Guardian Tower registers the presence of Guardian Tower Master candidates.]


    This was only the beginning.


    Alright. Everyone, get ready.


    There was no and they lived happily ever after ending when the Guardian Tower was summoned. The higher the grade of the summoned Guardian Tower and the stronger its ability, the more difficult the Guardian Tower Scenario would be.


    All of the party members heard a notice.[Guardian Tower Scenario 01  Qualifications of a Guardian Tower Master, is beginning.]


    He already knew this scenario. But for the Guardians, it was the debut of a new scenario.

 Chapter 151

    Chapter 151


    [Guardian Tower Scenario 01  Qualifications of a Guardian Tower Master, is beginning.]


    Qualifications of a Guardian Tower Master. It was a trial I already knew about.


    [Qualifications of a Guardian Tower Master isposed of 5 chapters total.]


    [Qualifications of a Guardian Tower Master 01 - Lycanthrope Chapter, is beginning.]


    The area around the Guardian Tower began to shimmer. Starting from the ground, the shimmer distorted the tower and warped the crosswalk under our feet. From within that distortion appeared the strongest enemy of the Tutorial Field, the Lycanthrope.


    With a grin, Yeonseo said, What the, thisll be a breeze.


    The humanoid wolf might have been a foe to fear in the Tutorial Field, but not anymore. I, of course, thought the same.


    It didnt take us very long to hunt down about thirty Lycanthropes.


    After finishing off thest Lycanthrope with his me Whip, Sung-gu rolled his shoulders with an air of rxation. If its this easy, I can kill em while on the shitter! Plop, splurt!


    Please put a filter on your words.


    <!--


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    My bro, my dude, my windboy. You cant catch em while on the shitter cause youre weak, eh?


    Why would I have to kill them while on the toilet?


    Its cause youre weak. Plop! Splurt!


    Should I make you really shit yourself, right here?


    While Sung-gu and Sunghyun were having a meaningless quarrel, the second chapter began.[Qualifications of a Guardian Tower Master 02 - Orc Chapter, is beginning.]


    The next monster to appear was a horde of Orcs made up of Orc Warriors, Great Orc Warriors, and Orc Archers. It was just a group of Orcs, and hunting an Orc horde at our current skill level wasnt very difficult.[Qualifications of a Guardian Tower Master 02 - Orc Chapter, has beenpleted.]


    It was around this time that the Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, Song Kiyeol, and the Golden Priest Gong Jinhoon arrived. The Poison Witch Cheon Sooji was with them as well.


    I knew they woulde.


    Their arrival wasnt unexpectedI had contacted them in advance. They made it just in time.


    [At this point in the scenario, the field where the Guardian Tower scenario is taking ce will be separated from the outside field.]


    [Isting from the outside field.]


    From now on, you couldnt enter the field from the outside or leave the field from the inside.[Qualifications of a Guardian Tower Master 03 - Orcanthrope Chapter, is beginning.]


    The Orcanthropes levels were around 32.


    Weve grown.


    The situation was very different from when we first encountered these monsters. Our levels were far higher, and even Orcanthropes were nothing to fear.[Qualifications of a Guardian Tower Master 03 - Orcanthrope Chapter, has beenpleted.]


    Wepleted the first three scenarios without much difficulty. But I didnt rx.


    From the 4th scenario onwards, its the real deal.


    That was generally the case. Depending on the grade, there were Guardian Towers with four chapters, and some with five. From the 4th chapter onwards, the difficulty would rise exponentially.


    What wille out?


    I looked around.


    Were being given a little time.


    Between the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd scenarios, there was almost zero dy in between. But before the 4th chapter, we were given a little time to catch our breath. That basically meant that a little preparation time was necessary for the 4th scenario.


    The corpses arent disappearing.


    Not all dispatched monster corpses automatically disappeared, but all of the Orcanthrope corpses were perfectly intact. Naturally, the intense reek of blood was pervading the air.


    A little time. The intact corpses.


    I figured out what monsters would appear in the 4th scenario.


    * * *


    * * *


    Taeguk Shields Guildmaster, Song Kiyeol, could only be awed.


    Hyukjins party has visibly grown.


    Their movements were on a different level entirely from when he saw them face the Orcanthropes outside the 1st floor of the yers Association. This time, they very nearly overwhelmed the Orcanthropes. No one incurred any big injuries.


    More than anything, their teamwork is extremely good.


    They were close to the ideal party, where everyone faithfully carried out their roles.


    Cheon Sooji said, Guildmaster. It doesnt look like were needed here.


    ...


    After getting the message from Hyukjin, they came here in a hurry, but their presence here seemed somewhat unnecessary. Just then, Sung-gu came running up to Sooji.


    Miss Sooji.


    Yes?


    You know that thing, that skull water?


    Skull water?


    You know, skull water! Venerable Wonhyo nasty water!


    TN: Venerable Wonhyo is a famous Korean monk who fell asleep in a cave, woke up in the middle of the night really thirsty, and drank some cool, refreshing water from a container he believed was a bowl. In the morning, he saw that he actually drank out of a human skull filled with dirty, rotten water and realized that it was his mind that determined truth and reality.


    Skull water? Nasty water?


    Wearing a tight-fitting ck knitted one piece, Sooji folded her arms. Her bountiful chest, slender waist, and even her long, graceful legs were unable to draw Sung-gus interest.


    You know, that nasty water! Ah, what was its name again?


    Kiyeol realized what Sung-gu was talking about. I think you must be talking about Rot Water.


    Yesss, that. Rot Water. Give me some of that.


    Right now? Why?


    Sung-gu didnt intend on having a long conversation with Sooji. The characteristic intuition of a top Ranker told him there wasnt much time.


    If you give me that, youll be able to have a drink with Hyukjin at night.


    ...


    Just the two of you.


    ...


    When Sooji didnt respond, Sung-gu thought, Aw man, no matter how urgent the situation is, this isnt gonna fly. I should just exin real quick.


    Ah, I guess that wonthuh?


    Please tell him to be sure to keep his promise.


    After getting the Rot Water, Sung-gu ran off without looking back and started sprinkling it all over the ce. Then, he yelled, Hey! Dont just stand there! Spray this stuff all over.


    Sooji found herself spraying Rot Water all over the field. Hyukjins party members worked busily, rearranging the Orcanthrope corpses.


    When all their work was just about finished, the new chapter began.[Qualifications of a Guardian Tower Master 04 - Predator Tree Chapter, is beginning.]


    Predator Trees appeared. Song Kiyeol, Cheon Sooji, and Gong Jinhoon saw them.[Predator Tree LVL ?]


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    These monsters were capable of eating a Great Orc Warrior alive. Hyukjin, who hade up to Sooji at some point, ryed that information in a small voice.


    They were nearly impossible for a yer of the same level to solo.


    <em>Gghhhh!</em>


    <em>Gghhhh!</em>


    Producing their characteristic sound, the Predator Trees hungrily looked around, seeking prey.


    Hyukjin and his party were prepared for their appearance. As the ones who had experienced Predator Trees before, Hyukjin and Sung-gu led the others in preparing a ming hell in advance.


    <em>Fwoosh!</em>


    mes jumped up. The magic fire created by Sung-gu flickered bright red tongues of me and surged up high into the air. Then, uponing into contact with the Orcanthrope corpses and the Rot Water, they detonated with a powerful st.


    In mere seconds, the isted space, the huge road where the Guardian Tower Master scenario was taking ce, was swallowed in a zing inferno so hot it melted the asphalt.


    Amazingly enough, the scorching firestorm was perfectly contained within the field. Because of the reduced range, the mes were amplified even more. Raging with an intensity that sought to melt everything in the world, the firestorm filled the Guardian Field with red light.


    In the midst of the inferno, Choi Sung-gu screamed. GAH, FUCK! WHY ME! His voice was filled with sincerity. Why do I, the Jayangdong Firemaster, have to hug this frickin So Yoohyun!


    Choi Sung-gu, who had an extremely high affinity for fire and had absorbed the Tome of the Divine Fire Physique, was protecting So Yoohyun in his embrace. The outstanding tank, Kim Sunhwa, was protecting Shin Yeonseo with a massive shield. Song Kiyeol, who was already starting to be called the Taeguk Shield, could protect himself, as well as Gong Jinhoon next to him. The only person left was the Poison Witch Cheon Sooji.


    Ah


    Sooji could feel the man shielding her with his body. A certain man was lyingpletely on top of her.


    Its hot?


    Hyukjin put a hand over her mouth. From an outsiders perspective, it looked as if Hyukjin were pressing her down.


    Dont talk. The heat will invade your body.


    ...


    <em>But youre talking</em>, thought Sooji. She didnt resist. She just entrusted her body to Hyukjin. She instinctively knew that if she was exposed to these mes without any defenses, there was no way she would escape unscathed.


    Hes not sweating at all, not even a single drop.


    Pressed t on the ground, Sooji gazed at Hyukjins face. As someone with a great deal of experience with men, she could tell.


    He really is indifferent?


    She couldnt discern any emotions whatsoever from Hyukjins eyes. They were the cold eyes of a businessman doing business. Just that.


    How can he be so calm with <em>me</em> under him?


    It was a slight kick to her pride. It really was an anything goes situation, but she still felt her pride take a hit. Her powerful desire to possess this man zed up as hot as the mes around her.


    One day


    Desire to possess, lust, thirst, all of it billowed up within her.


    In this exact position


    One day, she would definitely embrace this man properly. She would make this man hers. Her heart writhed with the twisted desire to possess.


    Yeonseo called out, Boss Hyukjin! Can we hunt them now?


    The Predator Trees took a lot of damage from the mes. Hyukjins party members were able to hunt the enfeebled trees without much difficulty.


    Yoohyun wiped the sweat from his brow. Hyungnim. One wrong step, and I wouldve been burned up to a crisp.


    If Sung-gu hadnt hugged him tight, he would have been doomed. That was how strong the mes were.[Qualifications of a Guardian Tower Master 04 - Predator Tree Chapter, has beenpleted.]


    As he wiped the sweat streaming down his face, Yoohyunughed happily. But really, trusting Hyungnim is what made such an easy clear possible, hahaha!


    * * *


    I didnt answer Yoohyun. I also turned a blind eye to the fact that the Poison Witch with the Sadistic / Erotic / Queen disposition was sporting a summary like [Lioness zing with a Twisted Desire to Possess]. There was something more important at hand.


    For the 4th chapter, Predator Trees came out. So what about the 5th? As far as I knew, there were only two monsters that might appear for the 5th scenario.


    One is the Big ck Dog, and the other is the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog.


    The strongest out of all the beginning period monsters Id experienced so far were the Big ck Dog and the Twin-Headed Big ck Dog, monsters that were absolutely impossible to hunt straight on.


    But in the Qualifications of a Guardian Tower Master scenario, we <em>must </em>hunt them.


    Hunt them? That was impossible for a regr yer. But for me, there was a chance.


    [Thousand Dog Master]


    Higher level title of Hundred Dog Master.


    Inducesplete submission of all pure dog monsters under level 40.


    Grants extreme intimacy with all pure dog monsters between levels 40-50.


    Grants weak intimacy with all pure dog monsters between levels 50-60.


    Big ck Dogs and Twin-Headed Big ck Dogs were both level 40-50 monsters, so I would automatically get extreme intimacy with them through the effect of the Thousand Dog Master title.


    But that isntplete submission.


    Intimacy was something that could break at any moment. If my opponent wanted to kill me, the intimacy they felt towards me would crumble, no matter how strong it was.


    And plus, the Guardian Towers final scenario wont be easy.


    I ran countless simtions in my head.


    This guys at it again. Meditating in the middle of a battle, Sung-gu grumbled.


    Shh. Be quiet for once. Youre bothering Hyukjin hyung.


    All conversation went in one ear and out the other, all too naturally. I heard them without hearing them. There was only the Guardian Tower in my eyes. The air around the Guardian Tower, the energy it was exuding, the flow within the Guardian Field, all the factors and information, everything was an element of my observation.


    Its going to be Big ck Dogs, or a Twin-Headed Big ck Dog.


    I was almost certain of it.


    How do we kill them?


    And the important thing was that we had to do it without damage. Was it really possible? To kill these monsters, which we could only appease but not hunt in the U-Plex Dungeon?


    I ran through a great many thoughts. And in the end, I came to a conclusion.


    With just our abilities alone, its impossible.


    One mistake, and we would be the ones getting ughtered. At our current levels, that was the kind of monster Big ck Dogs were.


    We cant kill them.


    If Big ck Dogs appear its impossible to hunt them with our strength, I said.


    Truth be told, I didnt think Big ck Dogs would show up in the Guardian Tower scenario. Yeonseos eyes went round.


    Eh? Then what do we do? Just die?


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    I shook my head. When I came here, I came prepared for the worst-case scenario, though I didnt think it would reallye to that.


    No. Were going to clear this ce.


    There had to be a lot of Guardians watching. A regr clear wasnt enough.


    Well clear it absolutely perfectly, without anyone getting hurt.


    Even if we were up against a pack of Big ck Dogs.

 Chapter 152

    Chapter 152


    Well clear it absolutely perfectly, without anyone getting hurt.


    After saying that much, Hyukjin calcted the time.


    It took about three minutes for the Predator Trees topletely appear.


    So how long would it take, if the monsters they were up against were Big ck Dogs? For the sake of bnce, there was a high chance the yers would be given a little more time to prepare.


    He examined the shimmer. It was, of course, a clue.


    My intuition tells me itll be around seven minutes.


    Seven minutes. There wasnt time to fool around, but it also wasnt too tight a time frame. Hyukjin turned his gaze on Ahn Seohye, carefully examining her eyes.


    She doesnt have the Red Eyes anymore.


    Seohye was different when the Red Eyes were kicking in. She acted like a slightly different person. But that didnt matter in the current situation.


    Seohye.


    ...Yes?


    You said you trusted me, right?


    ...


    Seohye fell into a moment of contemtion. She didnt say yes right away. But she did think of the man named Kim Hyukjin a little differently from other men.


    She thought of the adult Kim Hyukjin as a slightly different kind of adult. Despite that, Seohye had been burned and hurt too many times in her nearly eighteen years of life. She couldnt produce a cheerful Yes! when suddenly faced with the question.


    I know you better than you think.


    ...


    Because, as you know, Im a sovereign, and I am constantly doing the observation thates with that role. What my teammates are thinking, what cards they have, I need to have a precise grasp of those things in order to organically and efficiently lead this team.


    ...


    Her sword momentarily lowered, Yeonseo looked at Hyukjin and the shimmer around the Guardian Tower in turn.


    Whats Hyukjin talking about?


    Why was he suddenly talking to Seohye? Would Big ck Dogs really pop out of that shimmer? Could they really clear this ce without anyone getting hurt?


    Ill be frank and get to the point.


    Hyukjin was well aware that they didnt have much time. Even with the Thousand Dog Master title, Big ck Dogs were ferocious monsters by nature. There was no knowing what kind of disaster they would cause. Even if they didnt attack him, they could certainly attack the teammates around him. There wasnt much time, so he had no choice but to cut to the chase.


    I know youve already put up a special barrier here.


    ...


    Seohyes gaze wavered.


    Most likely from the time that I asked you to install a protective barrier around our ce. Im sure you knew.


    She knew there was some kind of flow here.


    Your instinct picked up on it. That something you need to hunt will appear here.


    ...


    I also know that youvee here multiple times with Sunhwa.


    Did the Red Demons hunting instinct originate purely from the influence of the Red Eyes? The answer was no. There was definitely hunting instinct within the deep darkness Ahn Seohye possessed. This wasnt an issue of good or bad. To put it in slightly more extreme terms, it was simply that she had an instinct for killing and an outstanding talent for it.


    The past Ahn Seohye expressed that in the wrong way.


    The current Seohyes path was a little straighter. If her rage and destructive urge were directed at people, it would be a crime, but if directed at monsters, her killing instinct was a fantastic quality for a yer.


    Thats why you set up a barrier here. Ive already confirmed it.


    Even Hyukjin didnt know what kind of barrier the future Red Demon set up. But he confirmed its existence back when the Predator Trees showed up. Those powerful mes were unable to harm Seohye. He clearly saw that she was being protected by an unknown force.


    ...So thats why you didnt try to protect me.


    Seohyes heart settled a little. To be honest, shed felt a slight contradiction in her heart. Why did that person (Kim Hyukjin) throw himself over Cheon Sooji instead of her? Her feelings became a littleplicated upon seeing that. Getting half-forced down like that by Kim Hyukjin the man, she didnt like. It was still scary for her. And yet, she thought it was a little strange that he didnt choose her, but the woman called Cheon Sooji. It wasnt an issue of being sad or disappointed. Rather, it was something close to, Oh, I wasnt chosen.


    Yeah. I was already certain at that point. Hyukjin tapped the side of his eye. My eyes are a bit special.


    Looking at her, he asked, For what reason are you hesitating?


    Its true that I put up a Frenzy Hunting Barrier here in advance.


    And if you wanted to, you could activate it, right?


    Seohye nodded. The problem is I cant kill Big ck Dogs with just that. I also know what kind of monsters they are. Itll actually make them more vicious.


    Hyukjin brought up another issue. Also, a barrier capable of hunting that level of monster will inevitably be wed. Itll be impossible to perfectly control it.


    As a result, her teammates might get hurt. If her control slipped, they could even get wrapped up in her Predator Barrier and die.


    But even so, you have to do it.


    From what Hyukjin had seen of Seohyes talent, as long as she could properly direct her killing instinct, she could definitely pull it off.


    I have as much faith in you as you have trust for me. No, even more than that.


    To be exact, he had faith in her ability as a barrier magician.


    But


    There was only about one minute left. The shimmering around the Guardian Tower was telling him that either Big ck Dogs or a Twin-Headed Big ck Dog, both incredibly strong foes, would soon grace the stage. The final test of the Guardian Tower, a test impossible to clear with standard tactics, was nigh.


    I didnt tell you to kill the Big ck Dogs.


    Even with a Predator Barrier set up in advance, Seohye couldnt kill the Big ck Dogs alone.


    Hinder their movements. It should be more than doable if you lower the main function of the Predator Barrier from [Killing] to [Binding].


    To Binding?


    Seohye was a little rmed. She had never disclosed the fact that she could change the nature of her Predator Barrier.


    If Binding is too hard, then you can weaken it even further to Slowing. Ill add my title, Thousand Dog Master, on top of that.


    The power of the Red Demons barrier, plus the extreme intimacy granted to him by Thousand Dog Master. It would be difficult to clear if they only had one of the two. But with both together, they should have a good chance of sess.


    Hyukjin turned to Sooji. Also, we need your poison.


    What kind of poison?


    A poison that can paralyze the opponents sense of smell.


    Sooji thought for a moment. I cant make that immediately.


    It doesnt have to be terribly strong. Their senses of smell are extremely keen, so theyre susceptible even to weak poison.


    I think I can make it. Within a short amount of time.


    Do it.


    ...Okay.


    Sooji was struck with a strange feeling. It was really, really weird. That order of Do it made her feel good. It was like she was being made to obey. She normally loathed the feeling, but for some reason, it was different when Hyukjin said it.


    Its like hes already drawn this entire situation out in advance.


    That was the impression his actions gave. She felt a strange confidence and sense of ease. It was like he had already nned out this situation, knew that she and her ability to use poison would be here, and readied the stage to secure a big profit from it.


    I must be overthinking it.


    No matter how amazing Kim Hyukjin was, he couldnt be that all-seeing.


    Hyukjin said, As I said before, we will kill them without taking any damage.


    A notice came, almost exactly at the time Hyukjin predicted.[Qualifications of a Guardian Tower Master 05 - Big ck Dog Chapter, is beginning.]


    The Big ck Dogs began to slowly appear. Hyukjin decided to do the best he could do right now. He picked out the most dangerous spot, the ce that would draw the most aggro, and moved to it. This picture was his work. And he, a sovereign, would stand right in the middle of that picture, the most dangerous spot. He didnt hide in the back like a coward.


    <em>Woof! Woof! Woof!</em>


    He heard the barking of the Big ck Dogs.


    Who would have thought we would really end up fighting Big ck Dogs in the beginner period?


    Not appeasement, but actual fighting. But there was no ce to run. He did almost everything he could, so now, it was time to do his best. Which meant it was time to slot in the final piece avable to him.


    He knew that not everything could go ording to the conductors will. Unless you were a god, you couldnt direct everything exactly as you wanted. He knew that very wellhe had experienced it as early as the Tutorial. But he knew exactly what he had to do in this position.


    <em>Conductors Hymn.</em>


    At the most dangerous position, the ce closest to the Big ck Dogs, the sovereign stood in front of his teammates. A faint golden splendor began to bloom from his body, quickly bing so blinding it turned from golden to white.


    The ck bodies of the Big ck Dogs.


    The white lines of the crosswalk.


    It looked as if the shimmer the monsters appeared from and the shimmer of the golden hymn were meeting.


    Conductors Hymn, an ability that shined in group battles, imbued the bodies of every party member. Sooji, naturally, heard the notices.


    [Conductors Hymn is starting to take effect.]


    [Curing status abnormalities of party members at a medium chance. Duration: 120 seconds]


    [+6% crit chance. Duration: 120 seconds]


    [+30% effect of consumable items.]


    Sooji could tell right away that her poison would register as a consumable item here. Also, as one might expect from a powerful monster like the Big ck Dog, they had a howling intimidation ability.


    If status abnormalities are cured at a medium chance


    That intimidation ability could be somewhat resisted.[A Frenzy Hunting Barrier is beginning to perfectly activate.]


    The world shimmering with white, ck, and gold began to turn red. More precisely, red threads upied the space, moving almost like an organic lifeform. They flowed quickly in a set direction before suddenly dropping down on one of the Big ck Dogs and binding it down, almost like it was trapped in a spider web.


    Seohye focused. If I mess up, people will get hurt.


    She weakened the nature of the Frenzy Hunting Barrier to Binding level, calming the killing energy. But one misstep, and that energy could roar back to life.


    Lets do well.


    Before she knew it, Hyukjins party members became precious people to Seohye, too. In this world without a single person she could trust, they became the only friends she had. And perhaps they would remain friends with her in the future as well.


    I, too, will protect them.


    She slightly regretted that she wasnt able to answer Hyukjins question of Do you trust me? right away, so she wanted to show him with her actions. She wanted to show him that she trusted him.


    Frenzy Hunting Barrier.


    Cheon Soojis olfactory poison.


    And the title effect of Thousand Dog Master.


    With everythingbined, they were able to sessfully bind the movements of the Big ck Dogs to a considerable degree. They iled about, red [!!!] marks over their heads. If they were to break free of those red threads, it wouldnt be the monsters getting hunted, but the yers.


    Well finish this quickly.


    If they couldnt


    Then well be the prey.


    Standing at the very front, Hyukjin took out the transcendent artifact Isabel.


    Lets hunt.


    * * *


    * * *


    In the end, our party sessfully hunted all of the Big ck Dogs, and we did it so swiftly that even I had a hard time believing it. Even as the architect of this situation, I was surprised.[Qualifications of a Guardian Tower Master 05 - Big ck Dog Chapter, has beenpleted.]


    We really did it. I did my best in the situation I was given, and the result was the scenario clear.


    I looked at my teammates. Its not an exaggeration to say we took no damage.


    Yes, Seohye fainted from exhaustion and Yoohyuns forearm was dangling limply, blood was running down Sung-gus forehead, Yeonseos left shoulder was broken, Sunhwa seemed to have broken a few of her ribs, and there was a big wound on Sunghyuns cheek. And yes, all the bones of my knee seemed to be destroyed.


    But we did it.


    Considering how strong the Big ck Dogs were, it really wasnt an exaggeration to say we took no damage. That was how I judged it, at least.[Guardian Tower Scenario 01 - Qualifications of a Guardian Tower Master, has beenpleted.]

 Chapter 153

    Chapter 153


    The Qualifications of a Guardian Tower Master scenario ended. Did that mean the Guardian Tower Master would be chosen, then?


    <em>Gulp, gulp.</em>


    As I chugged healing potionssince it was more effective to drink them rather than use them in a slotI waited for the notice. My destroyed knee throbbed.


    I was resting, idly wondering how many bottles I would have to drink for my knee to heal, when I heard a notice I hadnt even considered.[Guardian Tower Scenario 02 - Acknowledged Guardian Tower Master is beginning.]


    Something popped out of the Guardian Tower. It was a pixie the size of a palm. The pixie sporting yellow pigtails was extremely adorable. She had an innocent and kind-looking face, and her petite size made her look delicate enough to break with a single touch. Her extremely gentle smile and expressive face naturally elicitedpassion.


    A pixie?


    A pixies cute outer appearance was exactly that, an appearance, a faade. Generally speaking, pixies were a trickster race that liked to harass others. They were stubborn and greedy, so everyone knew nothing good woulde of getting close to one.


    And at this point in time, a pixie should be way stronger than us.


    Even Yeonseos Streamer, Roa, was an opponent we couldnt face with our current skills. Our rate of growth was unrivaled, but we were still beginners.


    Of course, I cant read her status.


    All I could tell was that she was a pixie. Eye of Perception was unable to read the status of the pixie, who had a much higher level than me.


    Tadaaa! Please wee to the stage, the Pixie of the Guardian Tower, Lilyyyy!


    I had no idea how she did it, but a very small fanfare went off next to Lilys two transparent wings, almost like she set off tiny firecrackers.


    <em>Tadadaaaa</em>


    <em>Tadadaaaaaa</em>


    <em>Tadadaaaaaa!</em>


    Maybe it was a System effect, because I even heard fanfare music.


    Lily is Tintins pixie, she dered before breaking out into a giggle.


    Yoohyun stared at the pixie in a daze. His massive muscles began to tremble imperceptibly.


    Su-Su-Super cute!


    A line of drool flowed from his mouth. Come to think of it, Yoohyun was said to flop over and die for cute things, particrly small animals. The story of him crouching down with his huge body in front of a chick for four hours straight of just watching and poking it with his finger was famous.


    He even said the following in an official interview:


    <em>I just want to pet it so bad. I want to pet it, but I cant because Im scared itll explode if I touch it. Its so pretty; it drives me nuts.</em>


    He seriously sat there touching it for four hours. People talked about how Yoohyun was making heart eyes back then, and the nickname Heart Eyes Yoohyun was trending for a while.


    To-Too cute!


    While Yoohyun was still in shock, Lily made the action of tucking her hair behind her ear (though of course, there was nothing to tuck in, since her hair was in pigtails. She only made the gesture).


    I <em>am </em>pretty cute, arent I?


    Floating in midair, she struck a pose, putting both hands on her hips and twisting slightly to face Yoohyun.


    What are you doing? Hurry and take a picture!


    If-If its okay with you, Ill take one!


    Yoohyun rapidly pulled out his phone and took a picture. I just watched in silence.


    This is something I didnt know about.


    Did this sort of thing also happen with the Guardian Tower that appeared in Manhattan, New York? Did that Tintin have a pixie?


    Theres no way to tell. For now, I couldnt find out. But I have a feeling it did.


    The world I hadnt known about, the world of Rankers. The world belonging only to them, a world the Inte or the media was not privy to. Such a world definitely existed, and I was in the process of stepping into it, little by little. No, I was creating it, little by little.


    Ill move with the assumption that a pixie appeared in the past as well.


    A pixie appeared in the past. Here, the Gold Pyramid Michelle was in this spot. I could use those clues as a base. Right now, Yoohyun waspletely blown away by Lilys cuteness, and Lily was intoxicated by his interest, seemingly having forgotten her true purpose.


    How about this pose?


    Cu-Cute!


    She moved from ce to ce, striking poses. Right now, she was floating horizontally in front of the Guardian Tower, pressing her lips into a slight pout.


    The person who became the owner of the Tintin that appeared in Manhattan was none other than the Gold Pyramid Michelle.


    Michelle was an excellent sovereign. She also had amazing and outstanding teammates under hermand. The Gold Pyramid Michelle and the Master Kwon worked together.


    Michelle and Kwon met the pixie.


    They sessfully gained ownership of the tower andter nurtured it into the strongest Guardian Tower in the world, Titan.


    The Gold Pyramid and a Master.


    I constructed an inference of that moment in time. What happened back then? I knew their general personalities and skills. If they met Lily, how would they have acted? Many scenarios and assumptions blitzed through my mind.


    Lily made an expression of great satisfaction.


    Jeez, this cuteness of mine. It really is unstoppable.


    pping her wings, she flew up to me.


    Youre the boss, right?


    Yes.


    I really didnt think Big ck Dogs would be selected as the scenario monster, you know. It seems Tintin has evaluated you guys very highly.


    It wasnt Tintin, but the System, but I didnt say that. I just listened in silence.


    Thanks to that, Lily was able to gauge your full power very uAh, right. This isnt right, hold on one sec.


    Lily put her hand into her chest, through the yellow one piece she was wearing. Then, she drew out something that looked like a lengthy receipt.


    sses. Where are my sses?


    She reached into her chest again, this time emerging with sses. They were a littlerge, so it looked like the sses were wearing Lily rather than the other way around. Amazingly, they somehow stayed perched on the tip of her nose without falling off.


    Lets see here. Ah. Right! This is it. This first!


    The pixie shoved the long strip of paper back into her body. To my fascination, it went back in and disappearedpletely.


    Alrighty, alrighty. The first thing well do to progress the scenario is to take a vote. Its called the yer~Vote!


    Lily folded her arms, flitting around us. Sparkling dust fell from her wings. Sitting atop my shoulder, Darongi sniffed the pixie, nose ring like a dog.


    Unfortunaaately, only one person can be the Master of the Guardian Tower.


    ...


    So were gonna have a vote to decide. Between you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you. And this boss here!


    Me, Sunhwa, Sung-gu, Yoohyun, Sunghyun, and Yeonseo, plus Taeguk Shields Song Kiyeol, Cheon Sooji, and Gong Jinhoon were given the right to vote.


    * * *


    * * *


    We all heard a notice.


    [The Acknowledged Guardian Tower Master scenario is in progress.]


    [A Voting Slip has been sent to your Inventory.]


    Everyone will vote. The first candidate is the boss. You, whats your name?


    Kim Hyukjin.


    Alrighty. If youre in agreement for Kim Hyukjin bing the Guardian Tower Master, ciiiiircle!


    She drew a big circle in the air.


    If youre against it, xxxxxx!


    She crossed her arms into an X.


    I cant give you much time. Just three minutes. All votes must be circles for the candidate to be recognized as the Guardian Tower Master. Alrighty then! Time staaaart!


    A timer appeared.[3:00][2:59]


    It started ticking down. Yoohyun spoke with a tone that brooked no argument. Of course it has to be Hyungnim. Circle, obviously.


    Lily piped up with a beaming grin, Nopers, everyone here is qualified to be the Guardian Tower Master. If Hyukjin doesnt get chosen, then the candidacy will go to the next person by order of contribution.


    Everyone would be a candidate, by order of contribution. The first candidate was me. I didnt know who would be next, but I could guess who would best.


    Gong Jinhoon will be thest to have a turn.


    As if she read my mind, Lily continued her exnation. You! Yes, you. Youre thest candidate. The position of Guardian Tower Master cannot remain vacant. So even you have a chance. But resolve yourself, all votes have to be circle.


    Her eyes narrowed into curves. They looked simr to Yeonseos smiling eyes, but inside them was a mischievous and mean glint. If Yeonseos smiling eyes were like the blinding sunlight of the spring sky, Lilys was like the portent of an imps roguery.


    Yeonseos smile is definitely something special.


    It was indeed special enough to cause the Sword Empress crush fever. Right as I was thinking that, Isabel woke up.


    (Dont think about another woman.)


    (Ill really kill you.)


    (You were thinking about that woman, right?)


    No, I was just saying her smile was a little special.


    (That counts as thinking about another woman.)


    I decided to ignore Isabel. I wasnt thinking about women. It was just interesting that the same facial expression could bepletely different. In addition, I merely concluded that every action of Lilys was purposeful. She was intentionally giving a more mischievous smile.


    It definitely wont just end with the vote.


    Pixies were far from simpleminded. In the beginning, she acted like she identally let something slip. It was an implicit hint that something else was toe, and it didnt escape my attention.


    Sooji said to Gong Jinhoon and Song Kiyeol, I think its right for Hyukjin to be the Master of the Guardian Tower. The Guildmaster thinks the same, right?


    Kiyeol nodded. Of course.


    Yeonseo smiled brightly. Then all of us are putting down circles. Correct?


    Lily was staring at us with amusement. There was still about one minute and thirty seconds left. One minute and thirty-three seconds, to be exact.[1:33]


    [The vote has concluded.]


    [Summing up the vote.]


    Lily pushed up her sses. The result of the vote is out! Its not important how many circles there are, so Ill check if there are any Xs or not! Itspletely anonymous! Your secrets are locked away in an iron box with me. I guarantee it, on my name of Lily.


    Then, she shook her head to and fro. Dearie me. One person voted no!


    A yellow X popped up over Lilys head.


    Sunhwas eyes grew wide. What?


    Yoohyun huffed, Who was it?!


    The gazes of all my teammates converged in unison on Gong Jinhoon. He waved his hand. No, no. I put down a circle.


    The Taeguk Shield Guildmasters bafflement was visible to the eye.


    Did you put down an X, Guildmaster? said Yeonseo to Kiyeol. In the hopes that your turn woulde?


    No. I put down a circle.


    There was a moment of confusion. I spoke up.


    Hold on.


    Everyone quieted. Lily was watching the situation with relish.


    All of us voted circle.


    However


    Someone else participated in the vote.


    There was a trick concealed in this scenario. I was sure that Michelle and Kwon would have been able to figure it out.


    Michelle will have hadplete trust in her teammates.


    She would have been certain that none of her teammates would have picked X, which led her to see another path.


    Lily. Did you also have the right to vote?


    Hihihihihi. She let out a tinklingugh. Wow. You noticed? Youre super smart! Thats right, the person who put X is me.


    And Im sure you yourself are well aware that your vote of X is invalid.


    Howe?


    From the moment Lily appeared, I sensed that something was off. Knowing she was continuously giving implicit hints, I observed her closely and remembered everything she said and did.


    You said this was a yer Vote. Let me ask you. Are you a yer?


    Nope. Im the cute pixie, Lily. Im also a friend of the Guardian Tower Tintin.


    Then that means your X was invalid to begin with.


    Yep, thats right. Lily smiled brightly again, her grin even wider than before. Youre quite something, youre really quite something. I never even dreamed that the scenario would progress so quickly.


    The Guardians had to be watching with as much enjoyment as Lily had surprise. In games, novels, or movies, stories where the main character was dragged around by the plot were no fun. It was important for the main character to create the plot and actively y a role.


    Stealing Lilys line, I said, Then, shall we move onto the next scenario?


    It was like what I always said to Senia. I would create the stage. I wouldnt let myself be dragged around. That wasnt what the Guardians wanted, either.


    So I took the initiative to say, Youll probably give us two tasks.


    Huh?


    Lily froze in midair, apparently so shocked that even her wings ceased to move. Before she hit the ground, Yoohyun dove forward and caught her, then wiped the sweat from his brow.


    Whew, what a relief.


    Yoohyuns hand was trembling. He was probably worrying about something useless like what he would do if this tiny pixie hurt herself in his palm.


    Lily didnt seem to have any thoughts of flying again. I couldnt see it earlier, but I could see her state now.


    State: Shock / Disbelief


    Are you a prophet? What <em>are </em>you?


    Judging by Lilys reaction, my prediction was correct. We had two scenarios ahead of us. I was sure of it.


    The first scenario thatll ur.


    I continued with confidence.<em> </em>

 Chapter 154

    Chapter 154


    I was an Observer.


    I interpreted processes and results through observation and saw what others couldnt. Things others could easily miss were given new worth through my eyes.


    Im in a bit of a shock right now, so you go ahead, Hyukjin. Im, like, seriously as-to-nished right now.


    I observed you.


    Ohhh? Reaaaally? You observed me?


    Lilys body twisted like a Twizzler, as incredible as it was. It didnt look grotesque, justical. Yoohyun was saying he would die from cuteness while nodding up and down with an expression that screamed, I cant handle the cuteness!


    Sunhwa lifted her tiny hand and patted Yoohyuns waist (she couldnt reach his back), doling out meagerfort with a Its alright. You wont die from cuteness, calm down.


    Lilys body uncurled again with a snap, like a twisted rubber band returning to normal.


    You were charmed by my cuteness too, huh? Seeing as you observed me.


    She fluttered over and gave my cheek a big kiss.


    Nngh! Yoohyun clutched his heart, falling to his knees. So cute!


    I nced at the muscr man. I knew Yoohyun had a weakness for cute things. But even so, his current reaction was excessive.


    Hes under the influence of something.


    Everyone had a weakness. Lily was probably taking advantage of Yoohyuns. There was a very high chance she cast some kind of trickery I didnt know about. I didnt indicate that I had noticed it, but kept it in mind. In order to draw and conduct the situation in its entirety, even small tidbits of information were necessary to keep tabs on.


    You moved around constantly, while making Yoohyun take pictures.


    Yes. Getting my picture taken makes me happy.


    Is that really the case?


    Hrrm?


    Her movements seemed a little too borate and calcted for that.


    The pictures are a clue.


    While Lily was making a fuss and Yoohyun was moring about her cuteness, the Guardian Tower Tintin experienced a slight change, one so very minute that it was no exaggeration to call it a highly challenging Spot the Difference.


    No matter how closely I observe and remember I wouldnt be able to find the difference with my memory alone.


    But Yoohyun had pictures.


    Theres a difference between the Guardian Tower in the pictures and the current Guardian Tower, which youll ask me to urately point out.


    That was probably part of the Acknowledged Guardian Tower Master scenario. Lily flew over and perched on the shoulder Darongi wasnt already upying.


    Wow. Youre really amazing.


    Lilys voice was much quieter, and I sensed it instantly. Much of the yfulness had vanished from her voice. The people of the future used the word sinister to describe the pixie race. It was also said that it was impossible to tell what a pixie was thinking.


    Youre correct. Youve got the pictures, and with your level of focus, this scenarios meaningless.


    Lily lifted her index finger. With a pop, a change so tiny the others couldnt distinguish it urred. The Guardian Tower returned to its original appearance.


    But I thought you would be able to puzzle out a trick of this level. Youre a Guardian Tower Master candidate who summoned the one and only Tintin. The process was surprising, but the result isnt outside of my predictions.


    I heard notices.


    [Acknowledged Guardian Tower Master Chapter 1 - Full Consensus has beenpleted.]


    [Acknowledged Guardian Tower Master Chapter 2 - Distortion Recognition has beenpleted.]


    The two notices came simultaneously.


    Curious, I said, You said you already predicted I would clear Distortion Recognition, but that you didnt predict the process.


    Yep.


    What was the process you imagined?


    I didnt think you would be able to pick up on the distortion. Well, it would have been fine even if you hadnt. This cute and lovely Lily was going to tell you.


    ...


    I instinctively knew that Lily wouldnt have just told me for free. She would have definitely procured a suitable price.


    Lilys voice became even quieter.


    Wanna know?


    Her voice dripped with a quiet killing intent. There was another pop, and with it, ck blood began to ooze from Yoohyuns eyes, nose, and mouth.


    Yoohyun screamed.


    GAAAHHH!


    His face turned ckish red, and his head ballooned, as if something bearing a huge amount of pressure was expanding inside.


    Lily grinned.


    Bang!


    Yoohyuns head exploded. The headless body crumpled to the ground like a puppet with cut strings. I didnt even budge. It would be a lie to say I wasnt surprised, but I maintained my calm.


    Is this an extension of Distortion Recognition like I think it is?


    Youre not surprised?


    Theres no reason to be surprised while looking at a distorted phenomenon.


    The next moment, it was as if the world began to rewind. Yoohyuns body went upright again, his exploded head returning to its rightful spot, and soon enough, Yoohyun was back to normal. It seemed that putting Yoohyun under some kind of influence was the groundwork for showing such a gruesome scene. I was mentally prepared, so I wasnt fooled.


    Visual trickery doesnt work, does it? You seem to have extremely special eyes, eyes possessing a tremendous amount of power. So, so fascinating. Youre the most fascinating human Ive ever met.


    ...


    Lily smiled widely again. Well, alright. This is the scenario I predicted: I was going to kill that kid in exchange for giving you another hint.


    We upturned Lilys expectations and cleared Distortion Recognition without losing anyone.


    But you said there were two scenarios left. Could you tell Lily what the second one was? Lily is craaazy curious right now. She licked her lips. I cant wait to hear what you say. Youre a man with a truly sexy brain.


    For better or for worse, I was already used to hearing such nonsense. Yeonseo, Isabel, and Sooji had long since immunized me, so I cleanly ignored her words and continued to speak.


    For the second scenario You said you observed me closely and gauged my strength.


    Thats right. Because your brain is sexy. Can I take it out of your head?


    No.


    Tch. Youre hard to get.


    She was impossible to read. You really couldnt tell how much was sincere and how much was a joke with her.


    I just have to do what I have to do.


    Why did the pixie of the Guardian Tower observe me closely? Why did she try to gauge my strength?


    That must have been because you wanted to test the boundaries of my strength.


    Bingo! Lily shivered. Lily will exin. From here on out, our Hyukjin, the closest candidate to be the Guardian Tower Master, needs to destroy the Guardian Tower Tintin.


    Destroy the Guardian Tower?


    To be more precise, youll be destroying the Guardian Towers outer shell. Molting! You know, that thing where arva bes a chrysalis andes out of its shell. Youll be breaking the Guardian Tower Tintins shell.


    The difficulty was set when we went up against the Big ck Dogs.


    Let me ask you again. You did your best earlier, yes?


    Of course.


    It wasnt a lie. Earlier, Ididdo the best I could. I went at it with my full power, which Lily should have urately judged.


    The pixie nodded. Yeah, I thought so.


    ...


    Shall we start the final chapter, then? Youll never be able to seed with a frontal attack.


    That was to be expected. She had gauged my strength to the decimal. A pixie who was surely far higher level than me made me a dedicated observation target and gauged my full strength. She was sure to have set the bnce exactly right.


    I heard a notice.


    [Acknowledged Guardian Tower Master Chapter 3 - Guardian Tower Destruction is beginning.]


    * * *


    <strong>Reaper Scans</strong>


    Trantor - Lei


    Proofreader - Ash


    Song Junghyes office was different from Kiyeols, her brother of simr age. Sitting on the sofa in that office was Jackson. He spoke, his gazending on one wall.


    You have a work by the Italian artist Goen.


    On the wall was Basket Woman from the famed Italian artist, Goen. That work was said to have been auctioned off for around $4 million, and it was hanging in Song Junghyes office.


    She shrugged. I heard from my little brother, but your Korean is extremely good. You also have a good eye for recognizing art.


    Her kid brother Song Jinchul was the reason the Blood and Iron Queen Song Junghye ended up having a meeting with Jackson, the man who wouldter be famous as the Great Explorer in the future Hyukjin knew. Jinchul, who had just stepped foot into the world of ying, was saved from danger by Jackson.


    I heard you saved my little brother several times.


    Yes. He has quite the gift, in spite of his young age.


    Jackson knew how to use Song Jinchul. He decided to make full use of Jinchuls background.


    To be frank, I wish to utilize Sungshins strength.


    Are the British always so straightforward? Do you only know how to go straight ahead?


    Have I offended you?


    No, I like it. I myself dont like going around in circles.


    Even if she looked like a mere rookie in the eyes of Hyukjin, who was constantly dancing with Guardians, this was Song Junghye, the woman who would one day be called the Blood and Iron Witch. Her discerning eye was absolutely not rookie-level. She recognized Jacksons value.


    Very well. I will invest in your potential.


    She also had an interest in this thing called ying. It would be difficult to quash Taeguk Shields early bird advantage, but she at least needed to build up a force equal to her brothers.


    I want a contract of equivalent standing, Jackson said.


    For now, he didnt trust Song Junghye or Jinchul. He only trusted their background. Right now, he was doing businessKorea was an extremely important ce for his scenario.


    The two talked for a while. The gist of their conversation was this: the explorer Jackson would join hands with the 3rd generation chaebol Song Junghye, and they would agree to use each other for mutual profit.


    Jackson got up with an expression of satisfaction. ...This was time well spent.


    He judged that no matter how Song Junghye was as a person, she made a very fine business partner.


    For me as well. However, as we have already agreed, if we cannot be of mutual profit for one another, we can cast each other aside at any time.


    Jackson knew. When Junghye said cast aside, it wasnt just the dictionary definition. It could evene down to death. On ount of the fact that he used the background and support that was Sungshin.


    Of course.


    Jackson turned, meaning to leave the office, when he suddenly turned around again.


    By any chance


    Please speak.


    Do you know a yer named Kim Hyukjin? From what I have found out, he has a special rtionship with your older brother, the Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield.


    Song Junghye flinched ever so slightly. Kim Hyukjin. It wasnt an all-too-pleasant name to hear.


    yer Kim Hyukjin, you say? Why do you ask?


    Jackson said some ambiguous words.


    Because I may have to pour oil on the mes.


    * * *


    At the same time, Kim Hyukjin stood before the Guardian Tower that appeared at the crosswalk between the DMC Riverview Xis Complex 1 and Complex 2.


    [Acknowledged Guardian Tower Master Chapter 3 - Guardian Tower Destruction is beginning.]


    Lily said that even his full power wouldnt be enough.


    Dont worry. You wont die. But if you cant fully destroy it You probably wont be leaving this ce intact. She flitted around, giggling. Youve awakened the sleeping Guardian Tower, so its only right that you lose a leg or arm in exchange!


    Lily appeared to be truly enjoying herself.


    You cant do it even with your full strength, so how will our Hyukjin destroy Tintin?


    Hyukjin didnt look like he was very frightened by Lilys semi-threat. He said in a small voice, I said I did my best by the earlier standards.


    It wasnt a lie. Earlier, he really did do his best. Big ck Dogs werent monsters one could hunt half-heartedly. In truth, the battle was so difficult he wouldnt have even tried if Ahn Seohye hadnt been here.


    But I didnt say I did my best by the current standards.


    He pulled out the transcendent artifact, Isabel.


    Lily froze in midair, sparkly dust trailing from her wings.


    Eh? What do you mean? Wait, has something changed from earlier to now?


    Yes, something had changed.


    Ill show you with my utmost effort.


    He was saying these words to the Guardians. From this moment forth, he would show them. He would show them what would happen if the current him, not the earlier him, did his best.


    ____

 Chapter 155: Great Orc Warrior (3)

    Chapter 155: Great Orc Warrior (3)


    Jo Sunghyun, whose future title was Typhoon, stood behind Hyukjin to his left and quietly recited a magic incantation. He didnt know what kind of help Hyukjin would need, so all he could do was some basic preparation.


    Hyukjin hyung is definitely going to raise his stats now.


    He could see what Hyukjin was trying to do. Hyukjins teammates knew that Hyukjin had some undistributed stat points piled up, though they didnt know how many.


    Even around seven undistributed stats will probably be able to break the bnce.


    That was the conclusion Sunghyun came to after hearing Lilys words. With seven stat points, Hyukjin should be able to destroy the Guardian Tower, though it might be a little tough.


    Since its Hyukjin hyung were talking about here he might even have a few more than seven undistributed stats.


    yers kept stats on stock in preparation for the worst-case scenario. Even one stat could create leeway in a crisis. It was like theirst resort insurance. yers on Sunghyuns level who could think or had a brain did it as a matter of course, although in truth, the vast majority of yers who werent Rankers used their stats as soon as they got them.


    Currently, Hyukjins level was 35. He hadnt touched his stats since level 30.


    [Status Window]


    Name: Kim Hyukjin (yer)


    Level: 35


    Contracted Guardian: [Nameless Observer]


    Title: [Pioneer of Victory] [Excellent yer] [First Adversary] [Person of Fire] [Phantom Thief Squirrels Master] [Starting Sovereign] [Starting Fighter] [Thousand Dog Master]


    Dungeon title: [Conqueror of the Seoul Station Dungeon]


    Innate ability: [Eye of Perception] [Sword of Insight]


    Special ability: [Absorption] [Mettle] [Eye for an Eye, Tooth for a Tooth]


    Strength: 22


    Intelligence: 22


    Agility: 28


    Perception: 22


    Constitution: 22


    Willpower: 17 (+30)


    Bonus stats: 22


    Random stats: 17


    Undistributed stats: 39


    The number of undistributed stats Hyukjin had far exceeded Jo Sunghyuns expected value.


    39.


    He had far too many undistributed stats for a yer who received a No Talent evaluation. The fact he had 39 stats in reserve meant that all this time, he was more than capable of progressing scenarios even without using his undistributed stats.


    To put it another way, he was able to keep in step with his team, a party you could call Koreas strongest at present, even without raising his stats.


    Hed only know exactly after they shed, but ording to his simtions, ten was a good starting point. He decided to try putting in two points each into every stat except for Willpower. If that wasnt enough, he could put in more.


    Hrmm~ Lily hummed. Your overflowing confidence sure is great to see. Tintins going to attack you now. Resolve yourself!


    As she talked, Hyukjin invested his stat points.


    [Status Window]


    Name: Kim Hyukjin (yer)


    Level: 35


    Contracted Guardian: [Nameless Observer]


    Title: [Pioneer of Victory] [Excellent yer] [First Adversary] [Person of Fire] [Phantom Thief Squirrels Master] [Starting Sovereign] [Starting Fighter] [Thousand Dog Master]


    Dungeon title: [Conqueror of the Seoul Station Dungeon]


    Innate ability: [Eye of Perception] [Sword of Insight]


    Special ability: [Absorption] [Mettle] [Eye for an Eye, Tooth for a Tooth]


    Strength: 24


    Intelligence: 24


    Agility: 30


    Perception: 24


    Constitution: 24


    Willpower: 17 (+30)


    Bonus stats: 12


    Random stats: 17


    Undistributed stats: 29


    The numerous gunports dotting the Guardian Towers gray wall started taking aim at Hyukjins body.[Guardian Tower is taking aim.]


    Countless crosshairs appeared on Hyukjins chest. His heart began to thump.


    The power he could feel radiating from the Guardian Tower with Eye of Perception was considerable. It was different from the murderous intent exuded by living beings, but it was more reserved and blunt. But Hyukjin didnt panic.[Observing with Observers Eye.]


    He maintained hisposure. Composure was the core of observation. Without it, exemry observation was impossible.


    It must have a weak point.


    It wasnt yet the evolved Titan, but the far weaker Tintin. It definitely had a weak point, one that Observers Eye could find.


    Found it.


    The towers weak point wasnt fixed. The Guardian Tower itself was unmoving, but the turrets opened and moved freely, making the Guardian Tower look as if it were turning in circles.


    The weak point changes constantly based on that movement.


    How he attacked that weak point would be the cornerstone of this scenario.


    While dodging the Guardian Towers attacks.


    He couldnt dodge every attack. He had to take certain hits where necessary. If he used the Great Orc Warrior set effect and Absorption with appropriate timing, he should be able to barely carve out a path to sess.


    An HP bar appeared above the Guardian Tower. If he brought that HP to 0, this scenario would bepleted.


    Okay.


    His mental preparation wasplete. It was exactly then that a ck bullet the size of a bowling ball came hurtling towards him.


    A light attack.


    The Guardian Tower Tintin was sending him a light greeting to start things off.


    * * *


    * * *


    Even without Hyukjin saying anything, his teammates were well aware of where and what roles they had to carry out. They were all people with top-ss talent, and they even put in hard work alongside Hyukjin to make their talent bloom.


    Sunhwa instantly made a call.


    I have to take that hit.


    That bullet attack was a teaser of sorts. It wasnt an all-out attack, just the Guardian Towers greeting.


    I can block it for sure.


    A shield formed at Sunhwas small arm.


    Oppa has to be the one to destroy it, but he doesnt have to be the one to block it!


    She threw herself at the bullet.


    <em>CLANG! BOOOM!</em>


    Steel met steel with a loud crash, followed by an explosion. The pungent smell of gunpowder filled the field. Having blocked the bullet with her body, Sunhwa rolled several times backwards. Her body was dirtied all over, but she seemed mostly unharmed.


    Hyukjin didnt miss the opening Sunhwa made for him.


    Well done, Sunhwa.[Using the special skill sh Step.]


    sh Step was a technique that approached the enemy in a straight line. Sunhwa had just blocked an attack that came flying in a straight line, which opened up the path for him, as Hyukjin knew it would. He knew Sunhwa, and he knew the turrets attack. He believed in her, and she didnt betray his trust.


    At that moment, he used a different song that he hadnt shown before and hadnt applied to the Kim Hyukjin of a few minutes ago.


    Conductors Hymn for group battles, Hunters March for solo ones. Two simr but different songs he had gotten from two rival Guardians.[Using the special skill Hunters March.]


    The two favors he had gotten in the beginning were Conductors Song and Hunters Song. Other than one taking effect in group battles and the other in solo battles, their effects were pretty much the same. That was how they were at first. But just because they were the same at the beginning didnt mean they had to be the sameter.


    That applied to the upgraded Conductors Hymn and Hunters March.


    [Favor Granted by the White Hunter]


    Type: Special skill


    Name: Hunters March


    Effect:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Medium chance to cure abnormal statuses in a solo battle (duration: 120 seconds)</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    +6% crit chance in a solo battle (duration: 120 seconds)</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    +30% increase in effect of consumable items in a solo battle</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Increased effectiveness of a direct attack ability of the caster when used inbination with Hunters March (limited to innate abilities).</li></ol>


    Cooldown: 360 seconds


    Proficiency: [1]


    Up to effect #3, Hunters March was simr to Conductors Hymn, but diverged a little starting from #4. Conductors Hymn could be used inbination with Mettle, while Hunters March could be used inbination with a direct attack innate ability.


    And I


    He stabbed the wall of the Guardian Tower with Isabel.


    Have never shown Hunters March.


    +10 boosted stats. And on top of that, a solo exclusive ability, Hunters March. A red energy began to rise off Hyukjins body.


    If Conductors Hymn produced a golden splendor, Hunters March was like a wash of red madness.


    It felt as if his entire body were overflowing with fighting spirit. The ability wasnt just a technical buff, but was actually fulfilling the role of a march. His blood was boiling, and his heart itched with the instinct to destroy.


    Next, here.


    After instantly closing in, Hyukjin stabbed hard at another ce on the Guardian Tower with Isabel. It was another of the weak points that could only be captured with Observers Eye, a schism between flow and flow. He continued to find and stab the continually changing point.


    The crosshairs for his body shook wildly, scattering outward and causing explosions all over the field.


    <em>BOOOM!</em>


    <em>BOOOOOM!</em>


    No one got hurt, but there was damage all over the road. Hyukjin jumped back.


    The first turret attack was a straight line attack.


    But the next attacks that bombarded the road werent straight shooters. They didnt have a trajectory. Like a kind of magic, it wasnt that the bullets themselves flew out, but that they exploded the target itself. So it was meaningless to close in on the tower.


    The Guardian Towers gunports continued to open, changing locations by the second. He had shaved down a fifth of the Guardian Towers HP.


    Hyukjin became more confident.


    I can do this.


    It was just one exchange of blows, but he could tell. His level was a step higher than the Guardian Tower set by Lilys observation.


    * * *


    When the Guardian Towers HP fell to about half, Lily shook her head.


    Looks like our Tintin needs to show his true strength, too. Youre doing way better than I thought!


    Every yer heard a notice.


    [The Guardian Fields istion function is taking effect.]


    [Switching to Full One-on-One Mode.]


    [yers other than the Guardian Tower Master candidate cannot participate in battle.]


    A full one-on-one mode was established. Kim Hyukjin vs. the Guardian Tower. Only the two of them could participate in the scenario.[In the case of the Guardian Tower Master candidates death, another Guardian Tower Master candidate can take up the gauntlet.]


    Lily seemed to think that wasnt enough.


    I need to activate Tintins outer wall defensive mechanism.


    Another pixie (though her physique was too different to really be called the same race), Yeonseos Streamer Roa, protested.


    Arent you destroying the already determined bnce too much?


    Woah, you scared me. There was a pixie Intermediate Administrator here, huh? But what kind of pixie is so huge?


    Answer the question being asked. Theres reason to suspect a bnce break here. Itll be hard to deal damage if an outer wall defensive mechanism kicks in when its already hard enough to close in and attack. Isnt that right? If you have any conscience, think about it.


    Lily snickered. Thats up to me! Stay out of my jurisdiction, giant pixie!


    Roa didnt take a stand for Hyukjins sake. She didnt care for him that much. She only wanted to be the subject of attention by making such an appeal. She couldnt properly stream Kim Hyukjin, but she <em>could </em>stimte the Guardians imagination. Alternatively, it was also a win if she could form a cooperative rtionship with Senia, Hyukjins exclusive contracted Intermediate Administrator.


    Since drawing attention was her goal anyway, she didnt really push the protest. Lily must have known that as well, because she giggled, saying, Its gotta be this hard to be fun! I want to open up that mans skull and lick the insides!


    ...


    Just then, a certain angel whose knack for talking was far too low considering she was a Streamer opened her mouth.


    Miss Roa. Its alright. Her voice low, Senia continued. yer Kim Hyukjin has not shown his full strength, either.

 Chapter 156

    Chapter 156


    Senias words were rather shrewdly calcted.


    yer Kim Hyukjin has not shown his full strength, either.


    The Guardians could only watch Hyukjin through her. The Intermediate Administrator named Roa took action to draw attention for her own profit, and Senia put the period on that endeavor. Naturally, the Guardians interest converged on Senia.


    <em>He hasnt used his full strength. </em>Those words worked the Guardians into a frenzy. Senia was growing nicely, as Hyukjin wanted.


    Meanwhile, Hyukjin was busy observing the Guardian Tower Tintin with Observers Eye.


    Defense has increased.


    The stat increase concealed a slight trick. The Guardian Towers pixie, Lily, couldnt tap into the Guardian Towers actual ability. She couldnt touch the current Guardian Towers settings. That was the result of his observation.


    Theres some other penalty to match the increase in defense.


    He didnt know what that penalty was. It could be that the attack power was decreased, or its recovery speed was slowed. In any case, he was sure <em>some </em>kind of penalty was in y.


    However.


    In the current situation, raising defense was quite a good call. Lily had a nearly exact gauge of Hyukjins offensive ability, so if the towers defenses exceeded his offensive output, the tower wouldnt take any damage.


    The attack speed has slowed a little.


    It was a very minute difference, but Hyukjin felt it. The speed at which the turrets took aim, fired, and even the timing at which the trajectory-less explosions went off, he was keenly attuned to.


    <em>THUD!</em>


    A weighty impact struck him. His chest felt as if it would be blown apart by the explosion.


    It hurts.


    It hurt, but not enough to knock him out. He intentionally didnt dodge so that he could get closer.


    <em>THUD!</em>


    Another impact.


    Hold on a little more.


    He put his trust in the Great Orc Warrior set. None of the attacks so far were ones he couldnt handle. But if they were too much, the set effect would trigger. It was that belief that drove him to push forward without hurrying to evade.


    Its better not to dodge attacks that have no trajectory.


    It wasnt efficient.


    Ill just take them with my body.


    It would consume too much focus to dodge attacks with no trajectory. It wasnt cost-effective, so it was better to hurt a little.


    <em>Whuuumpf!</em>


    Bullets came hurtling at him. There were three of them.


    Hyukjin stopped in ce.


    This attacks a fake.


    Those three bullets would steer his movements, and then an even bigger hit would follow suit. He could avoid the attack that was toe if he stopped here.


    I can see the flow.


    Tintins increase in defense was apanied by a decrease in its offensive capability, and thanks to that, it became a little easier to figure out its attack pattern. To begin with, a Guardian Tower was set by the System to guard a field. It wasnt specialized to attack something, so its attacks werent thatplicated or difficult.


    Approach a little more, and then


    Hyukjin heard Senias words, too. Her im that he hadn''t used his full strength was, in some ways, not a lie. After all, he hadnt used everything at his disposal. He even had stats left over.


    Finish it a little more narrowly.


    His goal was to create content that could make the Guardians go wild. Investing all his stats and crushing the tower with pure physical ability was one method, but that was something only idiots who could only see the now would do.


    He got close to the Guardian Tower Tintin. Dozens of crosshairs appeared on his chest. At that moment, Hyukjin felt a peculiar sensation.


    Its a little weird to say that theres a soul area in the Guardian Tower, but


    If Guardian Towers had a cradle for the soul, he got the sense that it was empty, that the current Guardian Tower was just a shell. But he couldnt concentrate on the sensationit wasnt the time for that.


    Ill draw out all of Isabels ability.


    Being overgeared was a type of skill, an extremely important factor for ying. And even if two people used the same effect from the same item, the effect would differ depending on the user. Just like how even if you cooked with the same ingredients and the same recipe, the taste would differ depending on the cook.


    Focus on Isabel.


    Isabels de seemed to hum in his hand.[Activating Isabels special effect.]


    Isabel had a whopping eight effects. Six of them were disabled, and two were active.


    7) Ego activated (Activation time has been greatly increased due to a strong wish)


    8) 30% offensive innate ability damage amplification


    The effect Hyukjin wanted to use right now was effect #8.[Using Isabels #8 effect.]


    It would amplify the damage of an offensive innate ability by an enormous 30%. It was time for Hyukjins weak point targeting sword skill created from the fusion of Sword Path Tracing and Excellent Strike.[Using the innate ability Sword of Insight.]


    Isabels ability, plus Hyukjins ability.


    And


    Just using it was meaningless. Simply using a skill without any finesse was something even a child could do. A smart yer, a <em>talented </em>yer, was constantly exploring how the same ability could be utilized in different ways. Hyukjin had such talent in abundance. He had a very perceptive mind.


    Unique Ability Fusion.


    [Unique Ability Fusion]


    An innate ability that discerns the flow of all abilities that fall into the unique ability category, thusbining unique ability with unique ability. However, fusion must be preceded by thorough observation.


    Hed already preceded the skill with thorough observation. While taking hits with his body, aiming for the correct timing, and fighting tooth and nail with the Guardian Tower Tintin.


    Ive done sufficient observation.


    Plus, Hyukjin already had the experience of blending Mettle and the unique ability of Noahs Helm. That experience wasntpletely unrted to what he was trying to do now.


    Because the nature of the fusion is the same.


    He wasnt just using Sword of Insight and Isabels #8 effect. He could, of course, just use them separately, but Hyukjin didnt do that. He discerned the true flow, extracting maximum efficiency, and applied the buff of Hunters March as the cherry on top.


    4. Increased effectiveness of a direct attack ability of the caster when used inbination with Hunters March (limited to innate abilities).


    Each and every factorbined to produce a Sword of Insight far stronger than its usual form. <em>This</em> was the full strength Hyukjin was capable of right now.


    Now!


    Hyukjin thrusted his sword towards one spot.


    Nngh!


    The problem was that the Guardian Tower Tintin had been waiting for the same moment.


    <em>CRAAASH!</em>


    Hyukjins body went up in mes that sought to swallow him alive. A firestorm roared to life and engulfed him.


    Lily blew a long whistle. Tintins capable of strong fire attacks, too. Tch, you had me scared for a moment with such a strong attack out of nowhere She giggled as she fluttered about. One Guardian Tower Master candidate burned to death, check. Well then, who will be the next Guardian Tower Master candi huh?


    * * *


    * * *


    Hyukjin already knew that Tintin was capable of a fire attack. He just hadnt known it would be used at that moment.


    The optimal timing of both sides had ovepped, and with it, his items broke.


    [Great Orc Warriors Iron Armor has been destroyed.]


    [Great Orc Warriors Leather Shoes have been destroyed.]


    [Great Orc Warriors Leather Pants have been destroyed.]


    [Great Orc Warriors Gloves have been destroyed.]


    As a result, the Great Orc Warrior set effect didnt trigger.[The title Person of Fire is resisting the fierce mes.]


    Instead, it was Person of Fire that allowed him to endure the mes. Hyukjin stood in front of the Guardian Tower, covered from head to toe in raging mes.


    That was close.


    Cracks began to spread along Tintins outer wall. Lily flew over in a hurry.


    Wh-Whats going on? Tintins attack definitely hit you!


    It really was a close call for Hyukjin.


    It was dangerous.


    The optimal timing. He did go into it knowing it was dangerous, but he believed in himself. In his Sword of Insight, boosted to max efficiency. In the amplified damage. And in the absorption ability his Legs Rings possessed.


    [Absorbing HP.]


    [Absorbing HP.]


    [Absorbing HP.]


    Eight HP absorption messages came in. The amount of HP Hyukjin absorbed increased in proportion to the increase in his offensive output.


    Choi Sung-gu felt cold sweat run down his back.


    That fucking crazy bastard.


    He had seen it, too. How reckless Hyukjin had been with thatst hit.


    It was a close call, even with healing pots and his absorption ability. That was how strong Tintins attack had been. I think he endured the brunt of the attack with those two and is now blocking the mes with the Person of Fire title, but


    If thatst attack hadnt been a fire attack, but a regr one, would Hyukjin still be alive right now? Sung-gu didnt know. What he knew for certain was that Hyukjins clear had been dangerous to the extreme.


    <em>Cr-crack cr-cr-aaack!</em>


    The cracks continued to spread along Tintins outer wall.


    [Guardian Tower Scenario 02 - Acknowledged Guardian Tower Master, has beenpleted.]


    [All Guardian Tower scenarios have beenpleted.]


    [With thepletion of the Guardian Tower scenarios, the Guardian Tower is being restored.]


    The restoration process began. The Guardian Tower Tintin returned to its original appearance.[With thepletion of the Guardian Tower scenarios, the Guardian Tower Master is being decided.]


    The Guardian Tower Masters name was Kim Hyukjin. He became the owner of the Guardian Tower Tintin.


    [The Guardian Tower is being activated.]


    [The Guardian Tower is starting to guard the Guardian Field.]


    Hyukjin saw a green light extend to the surroundings. It wasnt actual light, but an effect visible only to Hyukjins eyes. It was almost like countlessser beams were radiated out into the surroundings.


    This is the Guardian Towers Guardian Field.


    A wless Guardian Field deployed before his eyes. The green energy covered the DMC Riverview Xi and the entire Namgajwadong/Bukgajwadong area.


    An energy I cant see even with Observers Eye.


    It was visible only to the Guardian Tower Masters eyes. In other words, the energy and flow were higher in grade than Hyukjins current Observers Eye.


    Its covered this whole area.


    This energy would now protect the entirety of this field from most things under cmity level. But for some reason, Hyukjin still had the niggling sense that something was missing. He just didnt know what it was.


    Sunhwa ran over.


    Oppa!


    Her heart was in her mouth. She really thought for a moment that her brother was going to burn to death.Summary: Relieved Brocon


    Hyukjin happily gave Sunhwa a little hug, a very light embrace.


    Its okay, its okay. I didnt die.


    I totally saw how dangerous it was, oppa!


    <em>Thud! Thud! </em>The ground shook.


    HYUUUUNGNIM!!!


    He and Sunhwa shared a very light hug, but Yoohyun swept him into aplete bear hug.


    Im so relieved! Wasnt it a little dangerous at the end there?!


    Because Yoohyun was so big, Hyukjin looked as if he was half swallowed up by therger man.


    If you dont let go, youre dead.


    S-Sorry. I was just too happy.


    Hyukjin got a new title.[The title Guardian Tower Master has been generated.]


    Lily flew around, trailing dust everywhere. Woooow! It was fun, it was really fun. Ivepletely fulfilled my duty~!


    Sparkly dust scattered all over the ce. Hyukjin turned his gaze to Lily. The pixies body was slowly disappearing, starting from her feet. But it looked like she was having fun.


    It was fun!


    Her entire lower body faded away.


    I had fun! And I think Tintins found a good owner!


    Her stomach disappeared little by little, and then her chest.


    Though a sacrifice will be necessary to make it 100%plete!


    After her chest, her neck disappeared. And in the end, so did her face.


    I did hear that pixies oxidize and disappear when they achieve all their goals.


    Pixies called that an extremely happy event. Apparently, it was a different concept from human death, or something like that. Even the other pixie, Roa, was staring with a look of extreme envy. In the end, Lilypletely disappeared, leaving only sparkling dust behind.


    Taeguk Shields Guildmaster, Song Kiyeol, came up to Hyukjin.


    Great work.


    Thank you. Im afraid cleaning up the aftermath will be a little troublesome.


    Please dont worry about it.


    The area was inplete ruins. At the very least, no civilians were harmed due to the Guardian Field being isted from the regr field.


    The damage restoration will be handled by Taeguk Shield and Sungshin.


    It looked like the road would have to be entirely reced. But just then, Eye of Perception picked something up. Hyukjin sensed someones familiar presence.


    Hes here again?

 Chapter 157

    Chapter 157


    I doubted my eyes.


    Hes here, again?


    By coincidence, I met the Great Explorer Jackson in front of a rather special location, the Gwanghwamun Dungeon. I did have a hunch that our chance encounter wouldnt be the end of our acquaintance, but I didnt think we would be meeting again so soon.


    Seeing as he hadnt been able toe into the field, he must have arrived sometime during the scenario.


    No matter how I think of it, its weird.


    I couldnt shake off that feeling.


    Who was the one who created the Guardian Tower here in the past?


    It was at this point in time that the Guardian Tower appeared between Complex 1 and 2 of the DMC Riverview Xi. Who was the mysterious person who created the Guardian Tower that wouldter grow into the Megalodon?


    Its true that Megalodon is a lower grade than Tintin.


    Megalodon and Titan were slightly different types of Guardian Towers. Titan had a turret tower form, while Megalodon had a magic form. They certainly differed in utility. But if you were to ask people which of the two Guardian Towers was more outstanding, the majority would pick Titan.


    Even if we presume that Megalodon is a lower grade Guardian Tower


    It was still a pretty high level tower. Who could have created such a tower here, at this time?


    It was right about this time that the early version of Megalodon, Melo, appeared. Not long afterwards, Melos power was revealed, and the price ofnd around the DMC Riverview Xi skyrocketed.


    Its weird.


    That meant someone had to have been diligently collecting Guardian Gems from Gajwa Station. And then, another person with remarkable enhancement talent summoned the Guardian Tower here.


    Was there any yer like that in Korea at this time?


    Korea produced a lot of great yers. The 8 Heroes of Korea were neck and neck with other heroes worldwide. But the sphere Korean server yers particrly distinguished themselves in wasbat, specifically directbat. The country produced many directbat ss yers.


    We wereparatively weak in other types of ying, like enhancement or production.


    Some called this a server trait, and others called it a racial characteristic.


    Anyway, I dont think there was anyone from Korea who could have created a Guardian Towerand the starting version of Megalodon, evenat this time, right now.


    No matter how much I wracked my brain, I couldnte up with a name. But now, I knew: Jackson had been here at that time.


    He walked up, pping. I had a good time watching from afar. You use quite a mix of techniques.State: Surprise / Admiration / Thrill


    Jackson came up to me. There was a big smile on his face as he took my hand to shake it.


    Ive never seen a yer of your level, not even in Ennd. I simply regret that I wasnt able to watch from up close.


    Sunhwa tilted her head. A foreigner mister?


    Oh, hello there, little miss. My names Jackson.


    Jackson held out his hand. Sunhwa took it after some hesitation.


    Hello. Im Kim Sunhwa.


    Ah. Youre Mr. Kim Hyukjins little sister?


    From their trivial conversation, I instantly realized.


    Hes investigated me.


    He was able to dig out my information so fast? The only people who were interested in me were the Sungshin family. He seemed to be meeting Song Kiyeol for the first time, so it was either CEO Song Kiyoung, the Blood and Iron Queen Song Junghye, or the spoiled brat Song Jinchul.


    Its probably not CEO Song.


    So it was either Junghye or Jinchul. But Jinchul was still too young, and he didnt have much intel on me.


    It must be Song Junghye.


    He got my background info from Song Junghye. He had met her. I was sure of it.


    Well, its not a bad thing.


    Did Jackson think I wouldnt be able to figure out his rtionship with her from what he said? No. He probably knew. He knew and said it anyway. I didnt know what he was intending. It could be that he was showing off his ess to a powerful intelligencework, or was telling me that he was very interested in me. Or it could also be that he didnt think at all, though that was very unlikely.


    Sunhwas hesitating face brightened a little.


    Youre super good at Korean, mister.


    Spare me the mister. Oppa. Call me Oppa, little miss.


    He was even clear on the difference between mister and oppa.


    Im not little.


    Oops, sorry, Jackson said, before bending into a respectful bow. Please call me Oppa, mydy.


    Jackson intentionally put on an exaggerated air with a sly expression, but he himself seemed to find it cringey. Eurgh, so cheesy. Sorry. Ill make my apology quick.


    The entire time, he spoke with such fluent Korean that anyone would believe he was a native. In any case, Sunhwa seemed to have rxed a lot around him.


    How did you end up here, Jackson? I asked.


    Its because of my scenario. Somehow, your path and my scenario keep coinciding.


    Jacksons bearing was extremely natural. He didnt really seem to be lying.


    May I ask what kind of scenario it is?


    Jackson smiled brightly. Sorry, noment.


    That was fine, I hadnt expected anything. I heard Yeonseo murmur, Wow, thats one good-looking guy. Though he isnt my style.


    A blond-haired handsome man with a stocky physique.


    Standing before the gray, 5-meter-tall Guardian Tower was the blond-haired, handsome man, the twelvene road underneath him reduced to ruins. He cut a pretty dashing picture.


    It looks natural.


    He looked just like a hero from a western disaster movie, and it felt like I was seeing a scene from the movie. Was this heroic-looking Jackson connected to the puzzle of the past?


    I didnt know. I asked again, By any chance, do you haverades?


    I am in the process of making them. I would also like to build an amicable rtionship with you, Mr. Kim Hyukjin.


    I see.


    But I wont rush things. You seem to be very busy.


    Like a true explorer, Jackson closely examined the Guardian Tower, which could be considered a new relic. Then, he said some more amusing words.


    It seems like an extremely innovative tower, but something is missing. Its not quite there. Coming closer to me, Jackson grinned. I dont think its in itsplete form yet. Though Im sure you already know.


    ...


    Jackson held out his hand again.


    I think well be seeing each other again shortly.


    ...


    After shaking my hand, Jackson scrambled away. As I watched his receding back, I spoke.


    Guildmaster Song Kiyeol. This is just a personal request, but


    Please go ahead.


    Id like you to find out if there are any British people traveling with Jackson, and if there are, what ss they are.


    Kiyeol nodded, his eyes burning bright with determination.


    Understood. It shouldnt be hard to find out if I look at Jacksons entry record. I will investigate every British person who entered the country at around the same time as Jackson.


    * * *


    * * *


    The residents of the DMC Riverview Xi were forced to ept a new fact.


    Have you heard? That something weird popped up between our apartmentplex 1 and 2?


    Is it a monster?


    Its not a monster. It seems to be called a Guardian Tower or something.


    Guardian Towers were still unfamiliar entities to people.


    Wont the prices of our houses fall with something like that around?


    Thats what Im saying! The worlds chaotic as it is because of monsters.


    And plus, the road was nearly reduced to ashes.


    Taeguk Shield apparently had some kind of scenario there and will be repaving the road.


    Thats good, at least


    Dont you think there might be somepensation for damages we can im?


    But only the road was destroyed.


    Still, maybe we can get psychologicalpensation or something. Or at leastpensation for our house prices falling from the eyesore theyve put in our neighborhood


    The residents formed the core of a lobbying group that loudly demanded that Sungshin pay reparations.


    Are you going to take responsibility if our house prices go down?!


    Take down that eyesore at once!


    It looked as though the people werent yet ready to ept these structures called Guardian Towers. They didnt know what they were, and even if they were told, they wouldnt believe it.


    Song Kiyeol came to Hyukjins house.


    ...Things are going the way you thought.


    Yes. They must be demanding reparations.


    A few people are iming that they saw yers who arent part of Taeguk Shield. They say those people need to pay reparations as well. There are also people who say they saw So Yoohyun.


    It wasnt just Taeguk Shield that was there, but Hyukjin and his team. People were arguing that they should get reparations from Hyukjins teammates as well.


    Hyukjin already knew people would make such ims, and that those ims would soon disappear. He shrugged. To put it one way, the current situation was a side effect, and it would be greatly overshadowed by the main effect.


    Taeguk Shield must utilize the current situation very well. Weve made the worlds first Guardian Tower, and its even one capable of growth. This is your chance to spread the name of Taeguk Shield far and wide.


    They didnt know right now, but not long from now, people woulde to know everything about Guardian Towers.


    You will be famous. How well that fame could be utilized was up to the Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, Song Kiyeol. And the mor for reparations will soon disappear.


    Because very soon, the Guardian Towers true worth would be revealed for all to see. By the quickly approaching break of the Gwanghwamun Dungeon.


    Understood.


    Also, theres a high chance you will be contacted by guilds from around the world. They, too, will soon summon Guardian Towers.


    They would move quickly to get information from Sungshin, no, Taeguk Shield. And if they were yers capable of summoning Guardian Towers at this point in time, they could certainly be called geniuses. Taeguk Shield would be able to effortlessly make connections with such people. For Taeguk Shield, it was a winning transaction.


    Kiyeol nodded. Well take the fame, and youll take the practical benefits.


    That was Taeguk Shield and Hyukjins rtionship. Their mutual interests aligned perfectly.


    Hyukjin asked, Has the Precognitive Dreamer, Ham Sohyun, said anything?


    That is actually the reason why I am here.


    Kiyeol had gotten a message from Ham Sohyun before, one that he showed CEO Song. He shared it now with Hyukjin.


    <em>Three doors. A king walks the Kings Road.</em>


    <em>In front of the kings path, he shall suspect the river of baptism.</em>


    Sohyun had a precognitive dream rted to these words in the past.


    That was when I met Jackson in front of the Gwanghwamun Dungeon.


    The dream happened to coincide with the time when Hyukjin met Jackson. And Hyukjin knew Jacksons ss.


    Exploring Baptist.


    Which meant there was a very high chance Ham Sohyuns precognitive dream was rted to Hyukjin.


    If we suppose the king here is me, then in front of the kings path I will suspect the River of Baptism?


    In some ways, it wasnt wrong. He was indeed feeling a sense of strangeness he couldnt describe from Jackson.


    Hyukjin examined the note again.


    <em>Three doors. A king walks the Kings Road.</em>


    <em>In front of the kings path, he shall suspect the river of baptism.</em>


    After thinking about it further, he noted that the divination was divided into two notes. That meant it was possible the subject of the top note and bottom note were different.


    A king walking the Kings Road.


    A person standing before the kings path.


    Were they the same person?


    This isplicated.


    Hyukjin decided not to think about it too hard. They were glimpsed by a Precognitive Dreamer as illustrious as Ham Sohyun, so these two revtions were definitely not easy to figure out.


    Kiyeol passed him more notes.


    Theres more.


    Hyukjin took them.


    <em>Three fire demons shall descend.</em>


    It could have been written on one note, but the contents were written on different notes.


    <em>One fire demon and---.</em>


    <em>One fire demon and---.</em>


    <em>One fire demons---.</em>


    <em>At the crossroads of---.</em>


    It seemed Ham Sohyun was unable to see more of the future than that.


    I have a feeling somethings written there but strangely enough, I cantprehend it.


    It was set so that the rest couldnt beprehended. There were words on the paper, but he couldnt understand their meaning. His brain couldnt recognize them. This was, of course, a phenomenon that science could not exin.


    Hyukjin observed the notes for a long time.


    Can you see something more? asked Kiyeol.


    He could. But it was fuzzy. Something was subtly different between the past Hyukjin knew and the future that was toe. Each and every tiny puzzle piece was ever so slightly different.


    That Ive changed the future is already a done deal.


    That in itself wouldnt make him lose his nerve or get scared. Why? Because Hyukjin was making the now, and that now would turn into the future. So all he had to do was do his best in the now.


    From here on out, what he said was important.


    Guildmaster Song Kiyeol. Please listen to me very carefully.


    Hyukjins special eye, the Observers Eye, was staring at the note, not Song Kiyeol, as if to bore a hole through the paper. Almost as if he were transfixed.

 Chapter 158

    Chapter 158


    [Observing with Observers Eye.]


    As if I were transfixed, I unconsciously continued to stare down at the notes.


    <em>Three fire demons shall descend.</em>


    I could almost see something like a hazy video. It was a simr feeling to when I experienced Precognitive Eye. A feeling I couldnt concretely describe, but could just barely capture.


    This sensation.


    My knowledge of the past and this subtle sensation came together.


    This is definitely...


    The three fire demons were definitely referring to the Gwanghwamun Dungeon break. From it, three cmity-ss monsters would emerge, incredibly strong monsters our current selves couldnt do anything about. These monsters, which we could only evade and hope would disappear on their own, were described as fire demons in Ham Sohyuns precognitive dream.


    Guildmaster Song Kiyeol. Please listen to me very carefully.


    I couldnt save everyone. I had neither the obligation to do so, nor the means. However, I would do the best I could from my current position.


    The Gwanghwamun Dungeon will break.


    ...


    We couldnt clear the Gwanghwamun Dungeon with our current skills yet. All we could do was clear the Gyeonghoeru field. Just clearing the Gyeonghoeru field didnt mean we cleared the dungeon.


    The problem is


    I was getting an extremely ominous feeling from these notes penned by Ham Sohyun. I knew that a Precognitive Dreamers precognitive notes possessed a special aura, but I didnt think it would be this ominous.


    The Gwanghwamun Dungeon break I know was indeed a cmity.


    No one could resist the Gwanghwamun Dungeon break. The Korean yers justyed low at that time. The opponents were far, far stronger than the monsters that came out of the Seoul Station and U-Plex Dungeon breaks that were supposed to have happened. They were called Fire Giants.


    I did know they woulde out.


    I, of course, didnt intend on fighting them. It was too dangerous. If I shed 1v1 with one, I would die with almost 100% certainty. I fully recognized that.


    I know and recognize that. But I still have a bad feeling.


    It felt like foreboding was embodied in snake form, slithering up my leg. The snake wrapped itself around my neck, its tongue flickering at my jugr.


    The Gwanghwamun Dungeon will break?


    I think the three fire demons are referring to the monsters that will emerge from the break.


    Big dungeons like the Seoul Station and U-Plex hadnt broken yet, but small dungeon and gate breaks were happening all the time. Guildmaster Song was well aware of what I was saying.


    He seemed to have picked up on the severity of the situation.


    A dungeon even you cannot clear will break


    I continued to stare intensely at the precognitive note. My eyes itched, like a worm was wriggling around in my eye.


    <em>One fire demon and---.</em>


    What was it?[Cannotprehend because the proficiency of Observers Eye is too low.]


    I attempted toprehend it multiple times, but the result was the same.[Cannotprehend because the proficiency of Observers Eye is too low.]


    After a long time, I was able to get a very tiny clue.[Can only partiallyprehend because the proficiency of Observers Eye is too low.]


    I could read a little more of the <em>--- </em>parts<em>.</em>


    <em>One fire demon and another fire demon---.</em>


    <em>One fire demon and another---.</em>


    <em>One fire demon and a---.</em>


    <em>At the crossroads of incantation and incantation and incantation---.</em>


    It was said that you could only see as much as you knew, and you could only know as much as you saw. That applied to me right now.


    I have a bad feeling.


    Even when clearing the Tutorial, a field that normally had a terrible survival rate, or when I encountered and fought monsters stronger than me, I never had as ominous a feeling as I did now. It wasnt just dangerous; it was <em>ominous.</em> Afterprehending more of the precognitive note, that feeling of impending doom only grew.


    Thanks to Ham Sohyuns note, I realized something.


    My preparations so far arent enough.


    I didnt make any big ns in preparation for the Gwanghwamun Dungeon break. First of all, the DMC Riverview Xi was a rtively safe ce. And in the past, the Namgajwadong area was mostly unharmed by the Gwanghwamun Dungeon break. That was why I nned on waiting it out,ying low and recovering my stamina until the Fire Giants disappeared.


    The moment Iprehended Ham Sohyuns precognitive note, I changed my mind.


    That alone wont be enough.


    There was a high chance this cmity would be a little different from the break I knew. I had to prepare for the worst-case scenario.


    By doing my best, starting right now.


    * * *


    * * *


    So Yoohyun jabbed his phone screen with his finger.


    Darn it.


    With his formidable build, even his finger seemed to be made of strong muscles. Next to him, Sunhwa looked like a tiny cicada sticking to an old tree. Holding a cup of c with both hands, she slurped from the straw as she asked, Whats wrong, mister?


    Ive got a ton of DMs.


    DMs?


    Yoohyun showed her his screen. DM: direct message. It was a messaging function from the social media Yoohyun was diligently partaking in these days.


    Whoa. Are these all demands that you paypensation?


    Looks like it.


    Sunhwa shook her head. Idiots. The Guardian Tower is a good thing; they dont even know.


    It hasnt been proven yet that its a good thing, after all.


    Even so, why are they asking you to pay up? Sungshin is doing all the reconstruction.


    Mm. Yoohyun scratched his head. No idea.


    Ahn Seohye, who was quietly eating a hamburger next to them, volunteered the answer. Youre an easy target.


    Yoohyun frowned, but nodded shortly afterwards. Yeah, youre right. I must be an easy target. In any case, theyre all screaming at me to pay up, saying theyll sue me or whatever


    His gaze suddenly moved to Sunhwa and Seohye, alternating between the two.


    Hey, you two.


    Sunhwa and Seohye looked up at Yoohyun at the same time.


    Yes?


    ...


    The two of them were still chewing. They were on their third hamburger. Yoohyun pointed a very meaty finger at Sunhwa.


    Would you sit on your thumbs if something like this happened to Hyungnim?


    These two girls were just chomping on hamburgers while remarking on his hapless situation like idle spectators. They didnt seem to have an inkling of interest in his sorry plight.


    Answer me, would you?


    Sunhwa scowled. You could feel intense rage from her expression alone. I would beat them all up to a pulp.


    ...


    Yoohyun was dumbfounded into speechlessness. <em>Girl, wipe the ketchup and mayonnaise off your lips before you get all worked up.</em>


    What about you, Seohye?


    After thinking for a moment, Seohye said quietly, ...That oppa wouldnt get into such a situation in the first ce.


    And then, she returned to the task of eating her burger. At that moment, Yoohyun realized that to these two girls, the hamburgers before them were much more important than his trivial predicament. He realized that they were just giving him absentminded answers, and that he wasnt Kim Hyukjin. That he could never elicit as much interest from these girls as his hyungnim.


    And he realized another thing.


    Come to think of it, youre right.


    Seohyes words were right. Something like this wouldnt have happened to his hyungnim to begin with. That was why Hyukjin put up Taeguk Shield as a media barrier, wasnt it?


    As expected of Hyungnim. He nodded with a sage look. But then, he suddenly picked up on another oddity.


    Hey, Seohye.


    ...Yes?


    Didnt this girl call Hyungnim oppa just now? She said it so naturally that it almost flew under his radar, but she really did say it.


    Nothing.


    No, but howe he was mister all the time and Hyungnim was oppa?


    Seohye. I wasnt gonna bring it up, but


    ...


    Howe you called Hyukjin oppa?


    When did I do that?


    You called him oppa earlier.


    I never said that.


    Seohyes face went hard, to the point that if Hyukjin had seen, he would have said that was the face of the Red Demon. Yoohyun wiped the sweat trickling down his forehead.


    Fine, fine, dont re at me so coldly. Im about to piss myself.


    ...


    Yoohyun didnt notice that the tips of Seohyes ears were red, and that the hamburger she was clutching had a finger-sized hole in it. Feeling embarrassed by Seohyes silence, Yoohyun averted his gaze, rubbing his stomach.


    Somehow I feel a bit bloated today.


    He might as well eat some hamburgers. Today, he would take it easy and only eat nine.


    * * *


    Taeguk Shield issued a warning.


    The Gwanghwamun Dungeon will break.


    However, they didnt know when.


    Please be sure to look up the shelters in the Gwanghwamun area and prepare for the dungeon break.


    The current number one guild in Korea, Taeguk Shield, was working hard to publicize and warn the people. Half a year after the Tutorial, people knew that the world was no longer a safe ce.


    I mean, I do know its dangerous, but


    We still have to go to work.


    And yet, they couldntpletely block off the Gwanghwamun area. That wasnt what Kim Hyukjin wanted, either. If the Gwanghwamun area was evacuated and blocked off, loss of life could be avoided in that area. But that would only open the doors for even greater damage elsewhere.


    Some people epted Taeguk Shields warning.


    I heard Sooyoung asked for time off after hearing what Taeguk Shield said?


    They made preparations just in case. But many others knowingly ignored the warning. They disparaged and cursed the people who heeded the warning.


    What kind of nonsense is that? And tell me, how do they know when a dungeon will break? What, would you start hiding <em>now </em>from a typhoon thatsing next year?


    Exactly. Argh, theyre just being selfish. They only think about themselves.


    A few days passed after Taeguk Shield gave the warning about the Gwanghwamun Dungeon break. It was the middle of November, and the weather had suddenly turned cold. There were manypanies clustered around the Gwanghwamun, and countless people would pour out of the buildings at noon for lunch.


    Brr, its cold.


    Yeah, seriously. Whys it so cold all of a sudden?


    People closed their jackets, walking in groups of two and three to go eat their lunch.


    Hm? Whats that?


    Someone pointed past the statue of Yi Sun-sin.


    Has there been a fire?


    Huh? Fire?


    People recalled Taeguk Shields warning.


    <em>As a sign of the Gwanghwamun Dungeon break, mes will start to burn on the three doors.</em>


    The burning doors had appeared in the precognitive dream of a Precognitive Dreamer.


    Taeguk Shields warning was real?


    Y-Yeah, guess so?


    <em>If you see mes, run. You must find out where the nearby shelters are in advance.</em>


    <em>Please be sure to run away.</em>


    The people who had looked up where the shelters were started running towards them, heading for the underground subway. Commotion broke out in the Gwanghwamun area.


    Some people were very out of the loop. Even though Taeguk Shield publicized their warning very extensively via social media and mass media, they still didnt know what kind of situation was uring. More people were disinterested in the world than one might have expected.


    Excuse me, why are you running all of a sudden HEY! If you bump into someone, you should apologize!


    Some people just started running along with the others, while some stood about in a bewildered daze. Everyone reacted differently to the portent of the break.[The Gwanghwamun Dungeon has not been cleared.]


    The mes surged up even more fiercely. ck smoke filled the Gwanghwamun area. The yers in the area heard notices.[The Gwanghwamun Dungeons break is beginning.]


    The Gwanghwamun. It was the southern main gate, one of the four gates of the wall enclosing the Gyeongbokgung Pce. The gate with three doors zed with three mes.


    At the same time, the Precognitive Dreamer Ham Sohyun had a nightmare.


    AHHHHH!


    She woke up with a scream. Her back waspletely drenched in sweat. Her hand began to write down a precognitive note like it was possessed, shaking terribly.


    It has changed.


    Sohyun knew why. It was because she wrote the precognitive note, and that note went into someones hands. In other words, because she divulged the future.


    In the first future she saw, the three fire demons disappeared automatically after a set time. But in the dream she just had, it was different. It was a future where they didnt disappear on their own. Where someone <em>had </em>to extinguish them.


    A little time passed.


    The world came to know that three monsters emerged due to the Gwanghwamun Dungeon break.


    A constant stream of shocking news that the Gwanghwamun area had be a sea of blood was ryed. Even a helicopter was shot down. Neither the military nor the police could do anything. Taeguk Shield, of course, did not make an appearance. The casualties hadnt yet been totaled, but the bodies on the streets indicated that there were at least hundreds of dead.


    Hyukjin heard of the tragedy through the news, and he realized. He realized what had changed and how, as well as what he had to do now. He didnt see anything with Future Sight or Precognitive Eye, nor did he have a precognitive dream. He simply instinctively knew what was happening.


    He gathered his party members. They were all living in the same building, so it didnt take long to get everyone together. He began talking right away.


    Sung-gus eyes widened, and he trembled from head to toe. Cold sweat ran down his back.


    Fuck. Are you serious, Hyukjin?!

 Chapter 159

    Chapter 159


    There were always two sides to every coin. If there was sunshine and light, there was shadow and darkness.


    [Fire Giant has recognized the traces of a strong wish.]


    [Fire Giant has begun to seek the traces of a strong wish.]


    This situation could be seen as a bit of a side effect. I could understand what was happening.


    One of the Fire Giants that appear during the Gwanghwamun Dungeon break wille to me.


    I didnt know how long that would take. It might make a beeline for me, or it might take a roundabout way. One of them picked up my scent.


    [The Gwanghwamun Dungeon Break Scenario  Attack of the Fire Giants has begun.]


    [The traces of a strong wish condition has been fulfilled.]


    [A sub-scenario is being generated.]


    [The Gwanghwamun Dungeon Break Sub-Scenario  Hunt of the Fire Giant has begun.]


    The scenario I knew from the past was Attack of the Fire Giants. It was synonymous with the Gwanghwamun Dungeon break, and three Fire Giants emerged from the rift,ying waste to an entire district of Korea. After creating countless casualties over approximately three days of chaos, the Fire Giants automatically disappeared.


    The Gwanghwamun Dungeon break scenario, Attack of the Fire Giants, was not one we could clear to begin with. Those three monsters were ones we couldnt yet hunt. And one of them was hunting me.


    Fuck. Are you serious, Hyukjin?!


    It was meaningless to lie here.


    Yeah. You heard the notice that a sub-scenario has been generated, right?


    Everyone nodded. Yoohyun said, Did you know about the strong wish, Hyungnim?


    I did.


    The feelings my sister devoted for my sake, her love for me, manifested into a strong wish. Thanks to that strong wish, I was able to clear the Yellow Charm Gate. But a side effect was that the very same wish was calling a Fire Giant to me.


    Its not Noonas fault.


    No one could say it was her faultthis was just bad luck. If there was light, there was shadow, and when it came to medicines, there were side effects. You could kinda call this a side effect of me changing the past.


    A side effect can be treated with another medicine.


    But what medicine? To frame it as a disease, the Fire Giant was an incurable illness. What kind of medicine was I supposed to use to treat an incurable illness?


    So? Fuck. What are you gonna do?


    This wasnt a part of the future I was drawing. But I couldnt just do nothing. I now had people to protect, and a future I wanted to see. I couldnt just helplessly give up because a monster that could not be defeated showed up.


    There definitely is a way.


    After seeing Ham Sohyuns precognitive note, I made preparations nonstop. The worst-case scenario unfolded, but I wasnt giving up.


    Definitely.


    I would be able to pull through this scenario.


    * * *


    * * *


    Song Kiyeol made a sound of dismay.


    Ah


    After receiving all the reports, his face became very dark.


    Shall we call back the yers who have been dispatched to Boracay?


    No.


    It was meaningless even if they came back. Those were monsters even Kim Hyukjin could not kill. Hyukjin had gone so far as to call them a cmity. A natural disaster that human strength could not block.


    Then what should we do?


    There was nothing they could do.


    Watch over the situation.


    Time would resolve the cmity.


    Does that mean we can only sit here and hide?


    It means we need to wait and see.


    Unlike him, his sister Junghye appeared to be going for a more active approach, so Kiyeol called her to his office.


    Junghye.


    What?


    Dont fight the Fire Giants.


    Even now, the Fire Giants were being broadcasted on TV, like usual.


    Currently, one Fire Giant is moving in the direction of Seoul Station


    The reporters were unable to get close, either. They filmed the Fire Giants from high up in the sky, far away.


    The Fire Giants palm has been confirmed as a powerful fire attack


    The four to five meter tall ming humanoid monsters had ? for levels. The Gwanghwamun downtown region was in mes. Every car that came into contact with palms as massive as their bodies were thoroughly crushed and reduced to burning heaps of wreckage.


    Why? Worried Ill kill them?


    ...


    He was worried. About his little sister. They might bepeting for the session of thepany, but to Kiyeol, Junghye was his little sister. He still remembered how she looked when she was young. She was such a gentle and kind child.


    Junghye sneered. Youre too weak, oppa. And far too clumsy to have a big treasure like Taeguk Shield in your grimy hands.


    ...


    He caught their grandfathers eye by a stroke of luck and was getting full support, but from what Song Junghye saw, her brothers actions were so-so.


    Let me tell you what the weakness of these Fire Giants is. Junghye continued, looking like she was having fun. Each giant has to hunt a certain number of people. In other words, after theyve hunted their quota, theyll disappear.


    How do you know that?


    Thats not whats important right now, is it? She looked at her brother as if looking at something pathetic. So once theyre offered a set number of sacrifices, they can be hunted. To be precise, they can be <em>made</em> to look like they were hunted.


    Junghye rose from her seat. She opened her palms, drawing a rainbow in the air, her face full of satisfaction.


    How beautiful. A tower of blood built on the noble sacrifices of many yers.


    Junghye.


    If they are buried in the National Cemetery and conferred badges of honor, how magnificent do you think such a picture would be?


    Junghye.


    Oppa, youre too weak. Why do you think I told you the weakness of the Fire Giants?


    It wasnt really a weakness, but the condition to extinguish them.


    Want me to tell you in more concrete terms? Each giant needs to hunt 10,000 people. A Fire Giant that has killed 10,000 people will sputter out of existence.


    The amusement on Junghyes face vanished.


    Even if I tell you, you wont be able to do it.


    Her brother was incapable of the coldheartedness it would take to sacrifice yers and earn the honor of risking his life to hunt Fire Giants.


    Junghye eyes were full of disappointment. I wanted you to make the call, Oppa.


    If he wanted to be the next leader of Sungshin, she wanted him to at least shoulder that onus. If her brother, by some very small chance, had any thoughts of sacrificing yers or people to turn Taeguk Shield into heroes, her opinion about him might have changed a little.


    But youre still as weak as ever, and as much of a dreamer as ever. Youre just an idealist.


    ...


    You have to use every method and means at your disposal. Thats how you win. Be it in a fight or a war.


    ...


    Theyre not disappearing anyway, right? This scenario will only end after 30,000 die. Then <em>someone </em>needs to feed the 30,000 and profit. That is whats right.


    Kiyeol could not bring himself to speak. These were his sisters true thoughts. He was scared. No, he was sad. What made his sister this way?


    If you have nothing to say, Im leaving, good brother of mine.


    ...


    Junghye turned around. Kiyeol felt as though his little sisters back was a wall made of cold steel.


    After she left, Kiyeol sat alone and murmured to himself.


    It may be correct that 30,000 people have to die anyway.


    That was an established fact. Humans could not stop a disaster.


    But you arbitrarily deciding who those 30,000 people are is another matter entirely.


    Just then, his phone vibrated. He looked over to find that it was Kim Hyukjin.


    Yes, Ive picked up, he answered his phone.


    Kim Hyukjins next words were shocking.


    Are you serious?


    Kim Hyukjin had called to tell him he would be hunting a Fire Giant.


    * * *


    I was a Fire Giants prey. It would chase me. I couldnt run. In the end, we would collide head-on. It was just a matter of whether that was very soon, or a little less soon.


    Thats all I have to say. Im going to fight the Fire Giant. Anyone who wants to leave, can.


    For a very short moment, there was silence. No one got up. No one left. Everyone was saying they would fight the Fire Giant with me.


    You might die.


    And it was highly likely. But Sunhwa said this in response.


    If not for Oppa, I would have been left to die in the Tutorial Field anyway. She clutched the hem of my clothes. Do you remember what I said to you back then?


    The Sunhwa back then was desperate.


    <em>Dont throw me away.</em>


    Saying that, she clung to me.


    I begged you not to throw me away. And you didnt. Now, I cant throw you away.


    A bright smile bloomed on Yeonseos face again. Her famous smiling eyes were truly radiant today as well.


    I still havent forgotten that you saved my mom.Summary: Swordsman who Hasnt Forgotten their Debt


    Today, her summary showed up as swordsman. It meant she had a swordsmans mindset.


    Youve got to give me a chance to repay that debt.


    Yoohyun raised his arms. Exactly, Hyungnim. One little Fire Giant, cant we just smash it to pieces?


    Sunghyun didnt say anything, but he also didnt leave his spot.


    State: Firm Determination / Rage Toward Evil / Righteous / Fighting Spirit


    Summary: Wind Spellcaster with the Heart of a Devoted Hero


    Evil was probably referring to the Fire Giant. As one would expect from someone who was contracted with the just-minded Lady of the Scales, Sunghyun was very enraged by the Fire Giants that were wreaking havoc on our society and killing swathes of people.


    In starkparison, Sung-gus state was a sight to see.


    State: Strong Desire to Run / Desire to Survive / Fear


    Summary: ming Mouse who Wants to Run Away, but Cant (Isnt)


    His summary was the weirdest one Id seen yet.


    It says he cant run away but also that he isnt.


    The isnt was in parentheses, reflecting the indecisiveness in Sung-gus own heart.


    Fuck. Youre insane. Youre all crazy bastards. We should just bounce at a time like this. Ah


    He said everyone was crazy and that we should run, but in the end, he stayed put.


    Fuuuck. Whatever. Its not bad to just all die together. He suddenly broke into maniacalughter. Thats right! Were all going together! Lets go! Into the lighow!


    Yeonseo had pulled out a wooden sword from her Inventory and whacked him in the head.


    What do you mean, go? I havent even gotten married yet.


    O, that hurts. Whyd you hit me so hard?


    Sunghyun scolded, Yeonseo noona. Hit him harder, please.


    In any case, the entire team chose toe with me. I truly, sincerely thought that it was fine if they ran. We had only been a team for half a year. I never intended on forcing them to risk their lives for arade theyd only had for half a year, and I thought a few would leave.


    This feeling is pretty okay.


    In the past, I had no one. But now, everyone was choosing to stay by my side. Back then, all I came home to were insects that scattered when I turned on the light, but things had really changed.


    In the meantime, I heard a notice.


    [Fire Giant has recognized the traces of a strong wish more precisely than before.]


    And with that notice, I felt it, too. If I had to put it into words


    The smell of fire.


    It felt like something I was sensing with Eye of Perception, but I recognized it as a smell. A smell that I perceived with my eyes. That sounded weird, but thats how it felt to me.


    The smell of fire is getting closer.


    I could feel the smell with my eyes, and it became an energy and flow I was familiar with.[The title Person of Fire recognizes mes of a higher grade.]


    The smell of fire started bing more potent. It was a smell only I could perceive.


    I was struck with the sensation that some kind of energy was radiating from me without my conscious doing, like the fire ki that took root in my body when I got the Person of Fire title was boiling up.


    I felt instinctive feare alight within me. Fear that a stronger me was drawing near. But one corner of my heart began to tremble with another emotion, an emotion that defeated the fear and was starting to grow.


    Fighting spirit?


    It was like the me within me was impatient to swallow the me outside of me. It couldnt quite be called fighting spirit. It was hard to put words to the sensation.


    This kind of feeling is a first.


    I was scared that the Fire Giant wasing closer, but I also wanted it toe. Two contrasting emotions were in me at the same time.


    Each of us must do what we can to prepare.


    We couldnt fight the Fire Giant without any preparations.


    The Fire Giant will soon draw near.


    From the moment I decided to fight a Fire Giant, this scenario began. Everyone had things to prepare in their assigned positions. They went off to do them.


    One hourter, I got a call from Song Kiyeol.


    A Fire Giant has passed the Sinchon area and is heading towards the DMC Riverview Xi. The other two aremitting ughter in the Gwanghwamun vicinity. I will send a video to your phone.


    I examined the video. I could see the rough gist of what traits Fire Giants had and how they moved.


    There were two Fire Giants in the video, and a man was screaming. He was captured by the Fire Giants. One had his head, and the other grabbed his legs and pulled.


    A-AHHHHH!


    Sadly, the man died. When another thirty minutes passed, I got another message.


    It has gotten very close to the DMC Riverview Xi.


    In the vicinity of the DMC Riverview Xi, I waited for the Fire Giant, keenly feeling the mes of a higher grade.


    Another five minutes passed. The smell of fire drew ever closer.


    Itsing.


    There, in the distance, I began to see the Fire Gianting up the road.


    Come.


    My preparations were done.

 Chapter 160

    Chapter 160


    The twelvene road that had been well under reconstruction had long returned to a state of pandemonium. There were no longer any people to be found there.


    <em>Whirrrrrr!</em>


    My onlypanion was the evacuation siren ring overhead. I saw glimpses of the Fire Giant through the mess of abandoned cars. The giant stared at me, gaze fixed directly on me. The monster, a sizable lump of me assuming the form of a person, was <em>grinning</em>.


    Even though its this far away.


    I was standing at the top of a sloped road, and the Fire Giant was waaaay down there. Despite being extremely far away, I could still feel that the energetically burning mes were smiling.


    How chilling.


    The fire ki inside me reacted even more fiercely. To be more exact, it was jumping around in agitation upon meeting fire ki of a higher grade.


    Its noting any closer.


    Its gaze was on me, but it didnt approach. No, it <em>couldnt </em>approach.


    [The Guardian Tower is manifesting the Power of Guarding.]


    [The Guardian Tower has identified an enemy.]


    I, the Guardian Tower Master, heard the notices.[The Power of Guarding does not permit the enemys entry.]


    The Guardian Tower Tintin was here. If I fought the Fire Giant head-on, I would lose ten times out of ten, but here, there was a monument set to protect me and this field.


    Im going.


    I began to walk.


    My solitary footsteps rang loudly in my ears.


    <em>Whirrrrrr!</em>


    My footsteps continued to beat to the rhythm of the siren. And joining the score was the thump, thump of my racing heart.


    The warning broadcast continued to re.


    <em>All residents, please evacuate.</em>


    <em>Once again, all residents, please evacuate to the nearest shelter.</em>


    The Fire Giant stared at me with a smile as I walked towards it. It raised its palm, then swung through empty air.


    <em>Whumpf!</em>


    I didnt actually feel it, but I could feel the flow of fire with Observers Eye, along with the smell of fire.


    The heat of the fire is colliding with the Power of Guarding.


    <em>Boom!</em>


    An explosion went off.


    An explosion only I can hear.


    The world around me right now was strangely silent, as if only the Fire Giant and I existed in this field. Only the fire sounds the Fire Giant was producing and the movement sounds of my body punctuated the silence.


    Shock waves billowed out as the Fire Giants attack crashed against the Power of Guarding, ring up in the form of a red fire twister.


    This, too, isnt visible to the eye.


    When seen through the physical eye, the world was extremely peaceful and calm. But my eyes saw something else. Right now, a war of flow was underway.


    I continued to walk towards the Fire Giant until it was directly thirty meters ahead of me. I could now make out its features very clearly. I walked a little closer, giving me an even better view of the monster. Before me was a creature of apletely different level than the monsters I had met so far, a creature I could not hunt with only my ability no matter what tricks I used.


    I could only feel one thing.


    Overwhelming strength.


    Radiating from it was an aura that proved it certainly deserved its title of cmity. If I hadnt had the Person of Fire title, I wouldnt have even been able to sense this aura.[Your inner fire ki is reacting more fiercely to the higher-grade mes.]


    It felt as if my blood had be fire, and that fire was boiling up inside me.


    Fighting is dangerous.


    I couldnt just fight it head-on. We had to stack variable after variable after variable. Only then did we have a chance. I didnt want to die here. I would create my own future.


    Right up to this point.


    There were three meters between me and the Fire Giant, just barely out of reach if the giant could stretch out its fingertips.


    Up to this point its safe. For now.


    The Guardian Towers authority was protecting me. The Fire Giant couldnt get any closer, at least for the time being.


    Are you the hunter thats after me?


    <em>Groaaar!</em>


    The Fire Giants mes zed up fiercely. Now that I was up close and face to face with the giant, I could tell more precisely.


    The time Ive been given is seventeen minutes.


    After that, the Fire Giant would break through the Power of Guarding.


    Seventeen minutes, huh.


    Seventeen minutes could be seen as both short or long. I sat on the ground,pletely defenseless.


    If you can hunt me, try it. I dare you.


    Then, I closed my eyes. The Fire Giant froze, its mes burning even more red-hot, enraged that I was looking down on it. It mmed its fists down in anger on the formless wall manifested by the Power of Guarding.


    <em>Whumpf! Whumpf!</em>


    <em>Craaaaaaash!</em>


    A formless, soundless battle I could not see or hear. I sat there, focusing my mind with closed eyes.


    The others will do what they have to do.


    The giant was alone. But I wasnt. Something I could never even think of doing alone was possible together. I couldnt do it, but <em>we </em>could.


    And Ill do what I have to do.


    As I had always done, I would do the best I could.


    We need to stall anyway.


    I decided to focus on my situation while stalling. My Person of Fire body was reacting fiercely. I had the feeling that if I could guide this tempest somehow, I would be able to gain a new kind of enlightenment. I had felt this way when I fought the Brown Bear Kim Taechun, who was slower than me, and when I uttered the half-conscious Will Incantation.


    An enlightenment of a new stage.


    It could be that I was right at the doorstep. It was possible that I might fail, but what I needed to do was focus on what I had to do now.


    Ive aggroed it 100%.


    The aggro was 100% on me. What we needed now was time.


    * * *


    * * *


    Ahn Seohye was a Barrier Magician. With sufficient time and resources, she could disy power far greater than simrly leveled yers. The problem was that typically, she wasnt given the time and resources she needed.


    I have to hurry.


    She moved busily, setting herself to the job of further strengthening the barrier as Hyukjin had instructed. She drew out all the mana she had, weaving her red threads densely into the barrier.


    So Yoohyuns voice sounded next to her. I just have to move this car over there, right?


    Seohye nodded. The positions of the cars, the people, and even the direction of the wind were all factors that made up a barrier.[Frenzy Hunting Barrier is changing to Nemesis Doom Barrier.]


    The Frenzy Hunting Barrier was used for hunting many opponents, while the Nemesis Doom Barrier was good for hunting a small number of opponents more efficiently.


    That moment, she felt a refreshing energy ripple through her body. The Golden Priest Gong Jinhoon had buffed her.


    Its much easier now.


    Seohye, Yeonseo called out, I just have to put a hole here, yeah?


    Everyone hustled about, moving not as me alone but us together. That was the feeling Seohye experienced.


    Some distance away, sitting alone before the Fire Giant, was Kim Hyukjin.


    Seohye bit her lips.


    I want to protect.


    Whether she wanted to protect that person, or us, or the first real home shed ever had, she didnt know. She simply felt a will to protect, and the will of a genius Barrier Magician became one more element of the Nemesis Doom Barrier.


    [The Barrier Magicians strong will begins to imbue the Nemesis Doom Barrier.]


    [The Guardian Tower recognizes the presence of Guardian Will.]


    [The Guardian Tower honors the Guardian Will and assists the Barrier Magician.]


    The best defense is a good offense. The will to protect imbued the Nemesis Doom Barrier Seohye was deploying, bing the best offensive barrier.


    This is the best Im capable of right now.


    If the Fire Giant came closer, the barrier of red threads, the Nemesis Doom Barrier, would swallow it alive. Though whether it could truly pull it off was yet to be seen.


    Ive done my best.


    It had taken about seven minutes.


    So now


    Sweat ran down her forehead. She didnt even notice it as she walked towards Kim Hyukjin. The oppressive heat of the Fire Giant was bearing down on her, but she wasnt scared. Her desire to protect what she had now was greater than her fear of the cmity-ss monster.


    Im here.


    Hyukjin hummed in response and opened his eyes.


    Its been about seven minutes.


    That left ten minutes. He had to set up the stage in that time. He believed in Seohyes barrier and the Guardian Towers power, but those two alone were not enough to perfectly hunt a Fire Giant. No, it might actually be that they might be the ones that were hunted. He had to do everything he could.


    Hyukjin nced at Senia. The angel was streaming in a half-transparent state. Seeing as he hadnt heard any messages, he judged that she had used her Intermediate Administrator authority, and he was right. Senia deemed that Hyukjin required a great deal of concentration and put his notices on pause.


    Senia was focusing on Hyukjin, and many Guardians were doing the same.


    Seohye. I know what youre capable of.


    ...I did my absolute best.


    But I also know that its not enough.


    Aftering here, I can also tell that we cannot hunt that giant with my barrier alone.


    Seohyes back was wet with sweat.


    Just being in front of it is making me feel so tense.


    It was a first for her. Even when she met the Evil Spirit Tycon, she didnt feel this way. Back then, hunting instinct billowed up within her, but right now, she just wanted to run away.


    And so Im thinking that theres a possibility that I might have to return the Red Eyes to you.


    Th-The Red Eyes?


    Senias wings fluttered. She, too, had grown a lot and realized right away that it was time to re-enable Hyukjins notices. She informed the Guardians.[The temporary pause on messages has been lifted. Message transmission is now possible.]


    She intentionally sent the notice to Hyukjin as well.


    Not bad, Senia.


    Their teamwork had grown by leaps and bounds.


    Theres a big difference in ability between you when you had the Red Eyes vs. now. You may not have noticed, but the Red Eyes amplify your killing and hunting instinct, which in turn influences the killing intent of your barriers.


    ...


    Actually, I need the Red Eyes, too. To be exact, not Hyukjin, but the Shepherd Boy. But that means nothing if we die, right?


    <em>I have the Red Eyes, Shepherd Boy. I know youre listening. </em>Hyukjin said those words only in his heart. There were six minutes left. The more desperate side would take action.


    So the fact that I need them has toe second. Surviving thises first.


    There was no meaning to only stimting the Shepherd Boy. He ryed the current situation precisely and objectively to the other Guardians as well.


    The other two Fire Giants areing this way, too.


    ...What?


    Seohyes eyes widened. One was already hard enough to deal with, but three? Senias wings fluttered visibly. She couldnt figure out what Hyukjins end goal was, either.


    So if we dont use the Red Eyes if we cannot draw out all of its strength


    Of course, he had no intention to really use the Red Eyeshe didnt know what kind of power it actually held. He was just telling the Shepherd Boy this: if you dont help me, your precious Red Eyes might disappear for good.


    Seohye suddenly spoke up. W-Wait a moment, Oppa.


    She was so flustered that she inadvertently called him oppa.


    Whats going on?


    Hyukjin smiled inwardly. She had probably gotten a message from the Shepherd Boy. Hyukjin judged that the Guardian had sent a message to Seohye instead of him.


    I got a message.


    A message? he echoed, feigning ignorance. What kind of message?


    Ive been given a favor. A marble that can allow me to use as much power as if I used the Red Eyes. Its a Barrier Magician exclusive item.


    Hm? A Barrier Magician exclusive item? Was it not the Shepherd Boy?


    Which Guardian sent it?


    After some hesitation, Seohye answered, The Shepherd Boy.


    From those words, Hyukjin could see exactly why things turned out like this.


    The Shepherd Boy is desperate.


    He was extremely desperate.


    She says she got that item from the Shepherd Boy?


    Was that item truly something the Shepherd Boy could grant? That much, Hyukjin didnt know. But there was a high chance that the Shepherd Boy borrowed it from another Guardian, one rted to barriers. In any case, the Shepherd Boy currently had his stomach in knots.


    He was sure of that. As a result, they scored a good favor. They could pull this off even without using the Red Eyes.


    Then next


    There were five minutes left. In these five minutes, Hyukjin would punch open a path of survival more perfect than before.


    The picture that had been fuzzy at first was steadily bing clear, all while the fire ki inside Hyukjins chest continued to rage.

 Chapter 161

    Chapter 161


    Trading directly with a Guardian is dangerous.


    There were exceptions, like when you had justification from a Guardian like the Merchant of Venice getting involved, or when you had a reason anyone would deem as universally valid.


    However, it was the Guardians who decided what was universally valid.


    The majority of Guardians saw humans as toys for their amusement. Like jesters, so to speak. There were many cases where the yer believed they had universally valid justification and attempted to trade with a Guardian, but only incurred the Guardians wrath. The way Guardians thought was very different from us.


    Normally, that was how it was.


    But Ill still do it now.


    Dealing with Guardians was like ying chess. If I moved this piece, Id have to move this piece there, and if that piece moved like that, Id have to move another piece. Each move could create dozens, hundreds of new moves and tactics.


    You have to think one step, no, at least two steps ahead.


    It was a good thing that Guardians saw humans as toys for their amusement. Because the majority of yers were like that, they didnt bother to do deep dives on the psychology of yers. After all, our ying was just them having fun. That was why their personalities seemed rtively one-sided to us.


    Because theres no need to get super serious while having fun.


    If a Guardian ever got serious, it could be that I wouldnt be able to put them on my stage at all. There might not even be a stage to put them on because it would be outright destroyed. But at the very least, that wasnt the case right now.


    Thankfully, two of the Guardians watching me right now have apetitive rtionship.


    The White Hunter, and the Conductor of Sound. If I manipted their rtionship well and walked the tightrope nimbly, I could move the Guardians with rtively low risk. Though, Id die if I fell from the rope.


    I took a deep breath.


    I can do it.


    I repeated the words inside my heart. I couldnt hope to do anything if I didnt believe in myself.


    To the White Hunter who dotes on me I humbly venture a proposal.


    When I said the words, a Pause took effect. Senia approached me.


    The White Hunter has used a Pause authority.


    They used the expensive authority like it was nothing. The White Hunter was strong enough to use a Pause without hesitation even though a mere jester made a proposal. As expected of the Fight King Vs Guardian.


    The White Hunter is waiting.


    She didnt show it outwardly, but Senia was definitely nervous, too.


    I must now go head to head with a powerful enemy I would normally not be able to fight.


    The two top Rankers of Italy, the Wargod Salvatore and the Fight King V, had personalities ofpletely opposite poles and shed at every opportunity. Their individual fandoms were alsopletely different in character, but if you were to choose which of the two was more popr, it would be the Fight King.


    V was a yer who never retreated and relished ying on the razors edge. He did a lot of intensely risky ys, so his ying was always shy and taut with tension.


    There was a set of lines that the Fight King said almost habitually.


    <em>The will to not flee in the face of a powerful foe.</em>


    <em>The fighting spirit to never waver, even when pushed to the breaking point.</em>


    <em>The ambition to topple without fail those who endanger all I hold dear.</em>


    <em>Those are the things that have made me who I am today.</em>


    I, of course, liked the Fight King. So how was the Fight King able to monopolize the White Hunters love? It was because Vs disposition was the type the White Hunter preferred, just like how the Giant of the Sunsets favorite was Choi Sung-gu.


    The will to not flee in the face of a powerful foe.


    The fighting spirit to never waver, even when pushed to the breaking point.


    After I said the first two lines, I felt my heart tingle.


    This is!


    I didnt have a single clue back then, but this was definitely an incantation. It was only a half-baked incantation with the shape of an incantation but no will behind it. But there was no doubt that it was an incantation. I just wasnt drawing out its strength properly.


    It was an incantation.


    With this new enlightenment, I gained new lines.


    An extremely elementary one.


    I had the feeling it was an elementary incantation, the most basic of basics. But an incantation was an incantation. I pretty much got the lines to one of the Fight King Vs incantations.


    As I thought, the Rankers in the past knew about incantations.


    I wasnt sure, but I had a strong feeling now that the Rankers from my past life knew about them. It was just that they didnt tell the public about them.


    It would be ideal if I could pull off an incantation, but


    Right now, I couldnt afford to pay attention to that. In front of me was a Fire Giant eyeing me as if I were its prey, and the fire ki zing in my chest felt as if it would explode at any moment. Plus, I was negotiating with a Guardian. I was already stretched to my limits.


    I continued to recite the Fight Kings words.


    The ambition to topple without fail those who threaten all I hold dear.


    I changed thest line a little.


    Those are the things I wish for.


    I was sure these words fit the White Hunters disposition to a T. Sure enough, I heard a notice.


    [The White Hunter holds your will in high regard.]


    As such, I shamefully ask the White Hunter to help me just this one time.


    Directly asking for help wasnt good. No one could predict what side effects or aftermath this would cause. Senia had to know that as wellher expression didnt look too good.


    Its alright.


    Because there was another Guardian who kept the White Hunter in check, the Conductor of Sound. As long as I didnt lose my bnce, I wouldnt fall off the tightrope. No, I would make sure that didnt happen.


    The White Hunter is curious as to how he can best help, said Senia.


    I realized yet another fact from her words. The White Hunter could have sent me messages directly, but they were speaking through an Intermediate Administrator, all while using a Pause authority. Like most named Guardians, the White Hunter loved being at the center of attention. Countless Guardians had to be watching, and the White Hunter was definitely relishing every moment of the current situation.


    There was something the Fight King V always said.


    <em>I put the greatest value on foot techniques. A hunters footsteps must be lighter than the preys.</em>


    V put a constant focus on foot techniques. That meant the White Hunter was the same.


    At the moment Ick the adequate measures to resist the Fire Giant. But if I were to have some kind of augment to my movements, I would never run away from this wall that is the Fire Giant. I will be the hunter and hunt it without fail.


    Senias wings trembled. I didnt know what the Guardians were saying, but it seemed things were going well.


    * * *


    * * *


    The White Hunter is extremely happy with yer Kim Hyukjins qualifications.


    They were being recognized in front of many Guardians. They had to be in a great mood.


    [The White Hunter grants you a temporary favor.]


    [The grade of Hunters March has been temporarily increased.]


    [Hunters March has temporarily changed to Courageous Hunters March.]


    [Favor Granted by the White Hunter]


    Type: Special skill


    Name: (Courageous) Hunters March


    Effect:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    High chance to cure abnormal statuses in a solo battle (duration: 120 seconds)</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    +12% crit chance in a solo battle (duration: 120 seconds)</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    +40% increase in effect of consumable items in a solo battle</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Increased effectiveness of a direct attack ability of the caster when used inbination with Hunters March (limited to innate abilities).</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Can use the special ability Hunters Step.</li></ol>


    Cooldown: 360 seconds


    Proficiency: [1]


    There was even a new ability.


    [Hunters Step]


    The footsteps of an adept hunter hunting their prey. Your footsteps will be more hunter-like.<ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li>


    +21% increase in movement speed</li><li>


    +26% increase in jumping power</li><li>


    +33% increase in eleration</li><li>


    +31% increase in maximum speed</li></ul>


    Duration: 120 seconds


    Cooldown: Same as (Courageous) Hunters March


    I suddenly gained a foot technique. Technically, it was more like a buff that made my movements more dexterous than an actual foot technique.


    There were only two minutes left. I could feel the Fire Giants smile widening.


    The eyes of a predator looking at prey.


    I could feel it without question. There was ease in that gaze, confidence that it could hunt me down without a problem as long as it was given a little time.


    Savor the feeling of being a predator as much as you want.


    Because I would survive this fight. One minute left. It was about time.


    <em>Whirrrrrrr!</em>


    The siren sted.


    Dangerous monsters are still roaming about.


    All residents, please wait in the shelter and abstain from going outside under all circumstances.


    The warning broadcast continued to y.


    <em>Whap whap whap whap whap whap!</em>


    I also heard a helicopter overhead.


    Theyre here.


    Several helicopters were flying across the sky towards me. The Fire Giant nced up and fired a fireball towards them, but failed to reach them.


    I can feel it.


    The smell of fire was getting even stronger. That meant the other Fire Giants wereing closer. Two of them. With the one that was already here, that made three.


    I recalled the prophecy of the Precognitive Dreamer Ham Sohyun.


    <em>Three fire demons shall descend.</em>


    They had indeed descended. Here, at the DMC Riverview Xi. In front of me. I felt theming closer and closer.


    [The Guardian Towers Power of Guarding is rapidly weakening.]


    [The Power of Guarding will disappear shortly.]


    [When the Power of Guarding is extinguished, the Guardian Tower will take aim at the enemies.]


    I had a full view of the situation in my head. The information the Guardian Tower was sending me came directly to me. Tintin was taking aim at the three Fire Giants.


    The Power of Guarding would disappear for the time being, but the Guardian Field was still there. As long as the Guardian Tower still stood, the Guardian Field would persist. When they entered this field, the Fire Giants would be weaker.


    Itll dull their strength a little.


    Even just a little was fine. As long as there was a decrease in their strength, that was enough.


    It feels like I have two bodies.


    It was as if Guardian Tower had be my second body, like I was observing both the world Tintin was seeing and the world I was seeing with one pair of eyes, allowing me to take in and analyze more information.


    Now then.


    I got up. The Power of Guarding would soon run out, allowing a whopping three cmity-ss monsters, monsters we could never hunt with our strength alone, to encroach on the Guardian Field.


    In ordance with the White Hunters will, I shall hunt the prey.


    I pointed at one of the Fire Giants with my finger.


    Bang.


    That was the signal for Sunhwa to jump out from behind the cars. She used a skill that wasnt fancy, but could be called her specialty, Taunt.


    <em>Taunt!</em>


    The three Fire Giants nced at Sunhwa and sent a firestorm raging her way with a casual swing of their arms.


    Kya!


    Unable to withstand the firestorm, Sunhwa rolled several times backwards with a sharp cry.


    She utterly failed in pulling their aggro, a result I predicted. I entrusted this role to Sunhwa in order to confirm my prediction.


    I fully have their aggro.


    The three Fire Giants were focusing on me. The first step of my n slotted in nicely. They leisurely walked towards me, just five meters away now. The powerful smell of fire they exuded stimted my body.


    Ngh.


    My heart felt as if it would explode. I heard three notices in session.


    [You have been exposed to mes of a higher grade.]


    [You have been exposed to mes of a higher grade.]


    [You have been exposed to mes of a higher grade.]


    They came even closer. My heart ached and strained like a bomb about to blow. But I did not run.


    There was no time to pay attention to something like pain. I wasing into their attack range. I had to focus.


    [The Guardian Field is registering the presence of enemies.]


    [Inducing a decrease in the stats of the enemies.]


    [The stats of the enemies are partially decreasing.]


    At the same time, I could feel that my predictions were correct.


    Now.


    I began to manipte the fire ki rampaging within my body with a method unique to me.

 Chapter 162

    Chapter 162


    [The stats of the enemies are partially decreasing.]


    The influence of the Guardian Field was a part of Hyukjins calctions.


    Its true that the Fire Giants mes are of a higher grade than the fire ki I possess.


    The grade itself was higher, but the Guardian Towers influence lowered the mes potency as a whole. It was kind of like turning an adult tiger into a baby tiger. The fact that it was a savage beast was unchanged, but the stats themselves were lowered.


    And so


    He was able to take advantage of that. The way forward had been obscured by darkness, but he was beginning to see the path.


    If I manipte the fire ki inside me like this


    No one taught him how. Hyukjin manipted the fire ki with pure instinct, as he had always done. The moment he saw a Fire Giant for the first time, he could tell that the monster had different senses from humans. Humans saw the world with their eyes, but Fire Giants saw the world with their own unique sense.


    If I manipte the fire ki inside me


    He could create a result like the one he was seeing now. The three Fire Giants reached out eagerly towards him at the same time, like hunting dogs excited by delicious prey. Their zing arms collided with each other.


    Delicious prey is in front of you guys, so try and eat me if you can.


    He could change how he appeared to the Fire Giants depending on how he handled his inner fire ki. To them, Hyukjin appeared to be inviting them with a wagging tail to eat him. He wasnt actually moving at all, just staring quietly at the Fire Giants with his legs nted firmly in the ground.


    <em>Whuumpf!</em>


    One of the Fire Giants swung its arm again. Hyukjin still didnt move. The arm never reached him. The palm of the Fire Giant mmed into another Fire Giants palm as if to trap a rat inside.


    From afar, the magician who absorbed the Vulcan Body Tome and possessed a peerless talent for fire, Choi Sung-gu, could read the gist of what Hyukjin was doing.


    Hes manipting fire ki to create the illusion that their prey is moving around.


    Could he, Sung-gu, do the same?


    Fuck, I cant do it.


    He could see it, but he couldnt replicate it. Seeing and doing were two entirely different things. It wasnt something he learned, and he didnt even know how to go about doing it. But Kim Hyukjin was doing it with perfect calm.


    And with three Fire Giants in front of him, even.


    Because Sung-gu had absorbed the Vulcan Body Tome, he was familiar with the instinctive fear and terror that arose when faced with mes of a higher grade. That was evidenced by the uncontroble shaking of Sung-gus body right now. He was simply staying put by squashing down his fear with logic and willpower, but he could feel his body screaming in fear.


    And those movements


    The movement of fire ki, an energy that had no physical form, was an excellent guide and textbook for Choi Sung-gu. He filled his eyes with Kim Hyukjin. He couldnt manipte energy like that right at this moment, but just watching would surely be a big help to him. And the more he watched, the more convinced he became of a certain fact.


    Theres no doubt. Hes a crazy bastard.


    They began ying at the same time; Sung-gu was sure of that. And yet, Hyukjin was always at least one step ahead of him. And in an ability rted to the fire element, no less.


    Just then, a Fire Giants arm smashed yet again into another giants arm. By finely handling the fire ki, Hyukjin made their paths collide.


    A Fire Giant pped another Fire Giants cheek in anger.


    <em>Whuumpf!</em>


    The air whistled loudly, and the pungent smell of gunpowder filled the air.


    The pped Fire Giant staggered, but quickly regained its bnce. Its mes zed up even redder than before, and the two Fire Giants began to fight.


    Sweat dripped down Hyukjins forehead.


    I did it.


    He pulled it off. Hunting Fire Giants on his own was ridiculous. Even with Seohyes barrier and the help of the Guardian Tower, an impossible feat was impossible. Hyukjin knew exactly where his limits were.


    [The Nameless Observer is observing.]


    [The Whispering Devil is having fun.]


    [The Conductor of Sound is impressed by your scheme.]


    [The Courageous Lion King is disappointed.]


    [The White Hunter is watching.]


    The Guardians sent Hyukjin messages tailored to their individual personalities. Notably, the White Hunter only said they were watching. That meant the scene wasnt much to their liking.


    If the Conductor of Sound hadnt sent anything, that would have meant they were disappointed in me.


    But because the Conductor of Sound was a crafty Guardian, they were maintaining a neutral stance with Hyukjin. That was how Hyukjin saw it, and this situation was within his calctions.


    Striking a bnce is important with Guardians.


    Even sugar would lose its sweetness if it was eaten every day. Scenarios and stories were fun when they had ups and downs. There had to be a good bnce of sweet and bitter to extract the maximum profit from the Guardians.


    As for the other one


    While the two Fire Giants were busy fighting each other, Hyukjin closed in on the third giant.


    My steps are light.


    His body felt as light as a feather.[The White Hunter looks forward to seeing your movements.]


    Step by step, Hyukjin moved towards the Fire Giant. He himself was amazedthe effect of Courageous Hunters March was beyond all imagination. Even in the midst of his awe, he continued to manipte his fire ki, creating slight deviation in the movements of his fire ki vs. his body. Because Fire Giants saw the world through fire ki, his actions created a small opening.


    A very small opening.


    It was only the tiniest little gap, but it was more than enough.


    Release the fire ki with a big burst.


    The Fire Giant hurled itself forward as if to snatch Hyukjins body. He just barely dodged it.


    That moment, the two fighting Fire Giants turned simultaneously.


    <em>Fwoosh!</em>


    <em>Fwooooosh!</em>


    They became excited at the same time.


    They cant bear to watch good prey be monopolized.


    These giants were neither allies nor friends. They existed independently of each other andpeted against each other. If they aimed for the same prey, they would fight. Hyukjin had realized this from the video he got from Song Kiyeol earlier.


    <em>A Fire Giant has passed the Sinchon area and is heading towards the DMC Riverview Xi. The other two aremitting ughter in the Gwanghwamun vicinity. I will send a video to your phone.</em>


    Two giants killed a man. One grasped the head, while the other took the legs. The footage was gruesome, but Hyukjin could make out the Fire Giants characteristics from it. His Observers Eye read their natures.


    Theyre monsters that will struggle to keep their prey from getting stolen by one another.


    This was the scene he predicted would y out if he called all three here and riled them up with some passable sleight of hand.


    Hyukjin jumped back a few steps, just barely avoiding the palm of a Fire Giant.[Using the special skill sh Step.]


    His greatly boosted movement speed from Courageous Hunters March extended its influence to sh Step as well. For a moment, Hyukjin lost bnce and stumbled. A shiver went down his spine.


    That was close.


    What if he hadnt had Courageous Hunters March? What if he hadnt had sh Step, or was just a hair slower?


    I would have been crushed by that hand.


    He might have met an end not much different from the man he saw in the video. The Fire Giants were definitely strong. They werent an opponent he could face right now. All the hairs on his body stood on end.


    The only thing I can do is harass them.


    Actually fighting them was out of the question. Even harassing them had the Reapers scythe at his neck. But for a situation like this one, harassment was the most effective strategy.


    Theyre well-matched in prowess.


    The giants were baring their teeth at each other,pletely forgetting their original objective. me and me collided, and fire ki rippled out in waves.


    It doesnt look all that shy.


    Fire Giants were just a different race from humans, but they didnt really have outstanding martial arts or anything. They simply had exceedingly overwhelming physical stats. If both sides had simr skills, the resulting match wouldnt be very impactful or shy. It was the same with sports. If the athletes were on the same level, the match would be uniform. Only when there was a slight difference in skill would the athlete with the greater skill shine.


    Its not shy, but the strength between each and every blow is


    The surrounding asphalt was melting. This ce was quickly bing hell on earth. If Hyukjin hadnt had the Person of Fire title, he would have had a hard time just breathing.


    Standing near the Guardian Tower, Yoohyun and Yeonseo ground their teeth.


    Hyungnims in such a dangerous ce, but we


    <em>Cant do anything. </em>Yoohyun and Yeonseo werent given any real duties. The Fire Giants were simply too strong to fight directly.


    Yeonseo was just as frustrated. Seriously.


    She thought she had grown much stronger, but it still wasnt enough. She had to be even stronger. Yeonseo slightly bit her lips.


    Lets do special training from tomorrow onwards, Yoohyun.


    Yoohyun nodded.


    If we survive this, that is.


    * * *


    * * *


    The Precognitive Dreamer Ham Sohyun sat down. She didnt do it consciously. The woman pulled out a paper and pen from her Inventory as if someone were controlling her.


    Without realizing it, she began to write.


    <em>One fire demon and another fire demon shall collide.</em>


    <em>One fire demon and another fire demon shall collide once more, bringing the iplete hunt topletion.</em>


    <em>One fire demon and a fire demon shall bare their teeth at another in the end.</em>


    Her hand moved as if possessed, writing out the iplete precognitive note.


    <em>At the crossroads of incantation and incantation and incantation---.</em>


    At the same time, Hyukjin could feel it.


    Theyve gotten very tired.


    A group of three simrly strong opponents had exchanged blows. They were extremely tired right now.


    We wont have another chance like this.


    Right now, countless factors and conditions, including the influence of the Guardian Field, were in y. Carefully manipting his heat ki, Hyukjin lured the Fire Giants to the Guardian Tower. They were so absorbed in fighting one another that they didnt even realize how far they had walked.[The Guardian Towers Guardian Will is taking greater effect.]


    The Fire Giants were tired as it was, and the Guardian Towers Guardian Will bore down on them even more.


    <em>Flinch.</em>


    The giants flinched. Something stirred within them, an instinctive signal that there might be something dangerous here.


    Seohye. Now!


    At that moment, a voice that was not Seohyes own came from Seohyes lips. It was simr to when Hyukjin was uttering the Will Incantation, and the words themselves were the same ones Hyukjin had spoken when he used the Hand of Salvation.


    Trust is the truth of desires


    And the proof of what cannot be seen.


    Seohye closed her eyes. A red energy began to swell from her body, dying the world around her crimson. To be more exact, thousands of thin threads were sealing this world off, forming a circr dome over the Guardian Tower area.


    Hyukjin heard the words very clearly.


    Thats the incantation I did.


    Seohye had learned it?


    One who trusts even without seeing shall die even in life.


    Thy cry of agony and entreaty, I have heard.


    Thus shall I sublimate thycerating suffering into eternal peace.


    He felt Seohyes strong will. Etched deep with that will was trust in Hyukjin and the desire to protect the new world she had gotten.


    But


    Hyukjin had already experienced the Will Incantation. Because hed experienced it, he knew. Something about Seohyes incantation was off. It had been changed somewhere.


    <em>One who trusts even without seeing shall live even in death.</em>


    <em>One who trusts even without seeing shall die even in life.</em>


    Live even in death was changed to die even in life, and


    <em>Thus shall I sublimate thycerating suffering into peace and joy.</em>


    <em>Thus shall I sublimate thycerating suffering into eternal peace.</em>


    Peace and joy was changed to eternal peace. At that moment, an ominous feeling gripped him. The red energy shimmering from Seohyes body reminded him of a terminal me burning all of its life force and bravely ring out of existence.


    Seohye!


    Hyukjin realized what Seohye was trying to do. Red tears were dripping from her eyes.


    [<em>You who have killing intent.</em>]


    [<em>Imand thee. Return to thy eternal slumber.</em>]


    The Irregr Ahn Seohyes summary steadily became visible to Hyukjins eyes.Summary: Barrier Magician Resolved to Martyr


    Martyr.


    The act of sacrificing ones life to protect ones beliefs against all oppression and persecution.


    Seohyes eyes shed open. After finishing the incantation, she uttered the final activation words.


    <em>Nemesis Doom Barrier.</em>


    The red threads that had covered the world began to descend on the Fire Giants. At the same time, Ham Sohyun continued to write down her final precognitive notes.


    <em>At the crossroads of incantation and incantation and incantation, fabrication and truth, distortion and insight, shall ravage one another.</em>


    There was one more future to be penned. She wrote two notes.


    <em>There, shall a powerful wish, the will to protect, and life be instilled.</em>


    <em>There, shall one who pursues a wish predate as eyes of greed reign supreme.</em>


    And then, she fainted. She saw two futures, twopletely contrasting futures. The unconscious Ham Sohyun mumbled, The variable is the Sovereign of Incantations.

 Chapter 163

    Chapter 163


    <em>A few minutes ago.</em>


    Back when Ahn Seohye and Kim Hyukjin were standing in front of the Fire Giant together, Seohye heard a notice.


    [The Shepherd Boy wishes to gift you Red Marble as a favor.]


    [ept the Red Marble?]


    [Red Marble]


    A red marble in an ingestable form. It is suffused with the authority of a Guardian who has not revealed their name. Upon ingestion, life force will be absorbed to produce great strength.<ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Barrier Magician exclusive</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Can see more information if held</li></ul>[If the Red Marble is epted, the conditions of the Shepherd Boy must be upheld.]


    Those conditions were:


    [You cannot repossess the Red Eyes.]


    [You cannot absorb the Red Eyes.]


    [This proposal is made with the authority of the Shepherd Boy.]


    She wouldnt be able to repossess the Red Eyes Hyukjin had in his hand.


    That kind of thing doesnt matter.


    In truth, Seohye didnt want the Red Eyes. Even now, she didnt know what the Red Eyes were. All she knew was that they were eyes that exuded an ominous energy, an energy that, once activated, she herself could not handle.


    Seohye heard a different notice.


    [The Lady of the Scales reproaches the Shepherd Boy.]


    [The Barrier of Blue Light advises against using the Red Marble.]


    Normally, she didnt really hear notices like this.


    Its probably because Im ying with Hyukjin oppa.


    She didnt know why, but there were no Intermediate Administrators who exclusively focused on her, which also meant there werent many Guardians who primarily watched her.


    Red Marble


    She hesitated a little. When she held the Red Marble in her hand, the detailed item description popped up in her mind.


    If I use this


    There was a high chance that she would die.Upon ingestion, life force will be absorbed to produce great strength.


    Her hand shook. The life force will be absorbed that were just words in an item description became real in her mind, looming over her.


    Ill die.


    She felt that with almost 100% certainty. But in exchange, she also thought there was a high chance she would be able to hunt that Fire Giant. At the very least, using this would be a big help in hunting it.


    And if I dont use it?


    The Barrier Magician could gauge the strength of her opponents precisely. That was why she didnt hesitate when hunting Predator Trees for the first time. She knew without a doubt that her current self could never hunt that Fire Giant. Because even the killing instinct a Barrier Magician possessed was cowering before it.


    She said to Hyukjin, Ive been given a favor. A marble that can allow me to use as much power as if I used the Red Eyes. Its a Barrier Magician exclusive item.


    She wasntpletely honest.


    What would happen if I told the truth?


    If she said that her life force would be sucked dry, that her life would be used as coteral to deploy a barrier, how would Hyukjin oppa act?


    Im not sure, but


    From what she had seen of him so far, she felt that he would prevent her from using it. If she was being more honest, she wanted him to make it so she couldnt use it. So she didnt tell the truth. She didnt want to be disappointed in the first adult she met. She was scared that he just might tell her to use it anyway.


    If I dont use this here, everyone will die.


    Everyone dies. Or she alone dies. Which one should she choose?


    I want to live.


    She had just gotten a new lease on life. There were more warm people in this world than she thought, and there werent just bad people in this world. She gained good people like Yeonseo and Sunhwa. The sweet coffee they drank together yesterday was really, really delicious.


    I want to protect.


    Her life, and their lives.


    But I cant protect everyone.


    Someone had to be sacrificed. Just like Kim Hyukjin, who was closing his eyes in front of that huge Fire Giant, no one here wasnt prepared to die.


    Then I will.


    She decided. To use the Red Marble. To ept the Shepherd Boys proposal.


    Which Guardian sent it?


    The Shepherd Boy.


    That was all she said. She didnt give any additional info. That was Seohyes choice. And before she knew it, the three Fire Giants that had exhausted themselves as Hyukjin had nned were very close to the Guardian Tower Tintin.


    Under Hyukjins orders, Tintin aimed at the Fire Giants. At the same time, Jo Sunghyun and Choi Sung-gu let loose the spell they had been reciting and preparing a long time in advance. It was a spell the two top-ss magicians had spent a lot of time preparing.


    [<em>Wend Kiratia Metiase</em>]


    [<em>Speller Kartina Neu-Armi</em>]


    A three-meter long spear of wind formed and was enveloped in ayer of mes. Wind and fire synergized, bing massive in the air. The two of them had worked together for a long time and were now adept at it.[Magic fusion was sessful.]


    Spell and spell fused, the wills of two magicians intertwining. The fusion spell was endowed with mana far stronger than two separate spells.


    The spear of wind and fire created by the two magicians mmed into the Fire Giants. Tintins gun ports opened at the same time.


    <em>Ba-ba-bam!</em>


    Explosions rang out.


    Hyukjins Conductors Hymn took effect on it all; the skill also applied to Tintin.[Critical hit!]


    Thanks to the increased crit chance, a few attacks were crits. As that happened, Seohye recited the Will Incantation. It wasnt one that she hade up with. It was Hyukjin. A Will Incantation that was subtly twisted somehow, changed by something different.


    In other words, a distorted Will Incantation.


    Seohye felt the potent energy flowing out of her body. It was red in color. She felt as if she were bing one with it.


    [<em>You who have killing intent.</em>]


    [<em>Imand thee. Return to thy eternal slumber.</em>]


    Her heart shuddered.


    She would protect them.


    She would kill, to protect.


    <em>Nemesis Doom Barrier.</em>


    The absolute annihtion hunting barrier of a Barrier Magician.


    She would kill.


    She would die, to kill.


    Her heart flooded withplex emotions. They were tooplex. She wanted to live, but she couldnt, and she wanted to protect, but she also wanted to flee. She herself didnt know what this feeling was.


    She fell into a trance, unsure as to whether she was deploying the barrier, or the barrier was deploying her.


    * * *


    * * *


    I could instantly feel themthe power Seohyes barrier possessed, and the abnormal killing intent imbued in those red threads. The ironic thing was, inside that bloody killing intent was the intense wish and will to protect something.


    Because she wanted to protect something, she exuded killing intent. That was the will instilled in Seohyes Nemesis Doom Barrier right now.


    This is abnormal.


    The barrier was far stronger than expected. The writhing red threads swallowed the three Fire Giants, making three spheres. The spheres made of red thread began to grow smaller and smaller, constricting the bodies of the three Fire Giants.


    Even for Seohye, this is


    This might be a barrier she set up in advance, but this was too much. This strength waspletely bnce breaking.


    We were supposed to slowly hunt down the exhausted Fire Giants, fortified by Tintins support and Seohyes barrier.


    It would have been impossible without Tintins support.


    I only made this n <em>because </em>we had the Guardian Tower. But the situation right now was making me think that we would have been able to hunt the giants even without Tintin. That was just how impossibly powerful this barrier was.


    The amplification of this abnormal energy


    Power this abnormal definitely came with side effects. Definitely.Summary: Barrier Magician Resolved to Martyr


    That meant Seohye was resolved to die. Why? Howe?


    No way.


    Was the marble given by the Shepherd Boy earlier a drug that used Seohyes life force as fuel? That was highly likely.


    Blood dripped from Seohyes eyes.


    Seohye!


    I grabbed her shoulders. She couldnt go on like this. Right now, we could hunt the Fire Giants even without Seohye overdoing it. I was sure of it. I hadnt even invested all my stat points yet and hadnt brought out my transcendent weapon, Isabel. With sufficient time, we could hunt the Fire Giants in their current state.


    I shook her shoulders, but Seohyes eyescked focus. They were filled solely with the intent to kill. Only her hostility towards the Fire Giants was zing in her eyes.


    Snap out of it! You can stop now.


    But I could tell. The train could no longer be stopped. Seohyes energy began to flood out, blood streaming from her eyes, her ears, her nose, her mouth. The bright crimson ran down her cheeks, her neck, and began to dye her clothes.


    This was far too different a scenario than the one I predicted.


    [Fire Giant has been killed.]


    [Fire Giant has been killed.]


    [Fire Giant has been killed.]


    The Barrier Magician Ahn Seohye sessfully hunted the Fire Giants. This ce was a Guardian Field and within my Observers Domain.


    [Level increased.]


    [Level increased.]


    [Current level: 37]


    My level instantly shot up, meaning I had just gotten a mountain of EXP unimaginable for the Hell Phase.


    Two sparkling items were dropped.[Fire Giants Breath][Fire Giants Ne]


    And then, Seohye slumped to the ground. I wasnt that happy. In the scenario I sketched out, everyone was supposed to live. It might have been very difficult, but still, everyone was going to live.


    As I held her, Seohye regained consciousness. She smiled faintly, the blood red on her lips.


    Theyre all dead, right?


    I felt her state.State: Happiness / Relief / Unburdened


    But her state changed a little.State: Relief / Unburdened / Fear / Sadness


    Relief that she pulled it off. And then, upon realizing that she was going to die, the fear of a woman who had thought of herself as a martyr. All of her emotions hit me unimpeded, most likely because I once shared and empathized with Seohye in the past, because I had once felt the darkness within her in my very cells. I was feeling her emotions more keenly because of that connection.


    I


    Seohyes state changed by the second. From fear, to joy, to happiness, to sadness, and back.


    This is the end, so I can be honest, right? Even before I could respond, Seohye quickly continued. I wanted to protect.


    Seohye was unable to move her body. She seemed tock the strength to even lift a single finger. My Eye of Perception could tell that there wasnt much life left in her body. This was something modern medicine couldnt fix.


    And, thank you. Seohye lookedpletely at ease. You showed me that the world isnt just a scary ce.


    ...


    Sunhwa ran over and threw herself on Seohye.


    Whats going on?! Whats going on?! What happened?! She began to wail even before finding out the full details. Blood! Youre bleeding! Mr. Gong Jinhoon, what are you doing?! Pleasee and treat her, quick!


    But Gong Jinhoon knew, too. Ahn Seohye could not be healed. She had used a drug of no return. I didnt know what kind of shitty trick the Shepherd Boy pulled, but I had my suspicions.


    I bit my lips.


    Was it my fault?


    Should I have exined things a little more precisely? While I was nning my safety and showing the Guardians an exciting scene, this child made the decision to die. She protected us with her life.


    Seohye raised her hand with extreme difficulty. It looked like she was reaching towards me. I took her hand. Her voice had be much quieter.


    Thats weird. Im not scared. Normally, my heart races like crazy when Im holding a mans hand.


    She wasnt talking about the kind of excitement that coursed through ones body when in thepany of the opposite sex. This was a child who had trembled uncontrobly in fear at the mere sight of a single hair from a man.


    Thank you. For making it so its not scary.


    Seohyes voice was still as calm as ever. She clearly knew that she was about to die, and yet, she seemed unfazed. Her features had actually be more peaceful.


    Thank you so much. It was only a short time, but I was really happy. I really mean it.


    Seohyes hand fell out of mine, limp. Her body ceased to draw breath.


    I


    <em>Couldnt do anything.</em>


    This isnt right.


    It wasnt. It just wasnt, no matter how hard I thought. She was a girl in her teens who had just barely started to open her heart a little. It wasnt right that a child who finally got the treatment and protection she deserved was dying to protect someone.


    At that moment, I felt something strange, like something was vibrating in my Inventory.


    <em>Buzz!</em>


    <em>Buzzzz!</em>


    My entire Inventory seemed to rock with the force of the vibrations.


    Huh?


    The Red Eyes that had been quiet all this time were violently vibrating as if to express their desire to return to their original owner.


    At the same time, in a different ce, something happened to the precognitive note penned by the unconscious Ham Sohyun.


    <em>There, shall one who pursues a wish predate as eyes of greed reign supreme.</em>


    That note burned into nothingness, leaving the other intact.


    <em>There, shall a powerful wish, the will to protect, and life be instilled.</em>

 Chapter 164

    Chapter 164


    The Red Eyes started to go wild, as if they wanted to jump right this instant into the arms of their true owner.


    I dont know what will happen.


    I didnt know what kind of effect the Red Eyes had. It didnt even ur to me that it was an item that I could use to control the Shepherd Boy. I couldnt calcte all the pros and cons. I simply had to do what I could right now. I didnt want to regret anything in this life.


    I took out the Red Eyes from my Inventory.


    [The Shepherd Boy asks for the Red Eyes.]


    [The Shepherd Boy strongly demands the Red Eyes.]


    In his haste, the Shepherd Boy sent me two messages, and it didnt end there.


    [The Shepherd Boy expresses faint hostility towards you.]


    [The Shepherd Boy mentions that his hostility can be goodwill at any moment.]


    He even warned me. He was telling me to leave the Red Eyes alone. The Shepherd Boy was a powerful Guardian. Things would be very tiresome if I made him my enemy. If possible, it was best to do as he wanted. Logically speaking, that is.


    No.


    But this wasnt the time for that.


    Im a little more of an adult than her.


    I was an adult, and she was a child. As an adult, I should act a little more adult-like. There were asionally times when I had to act with no regard for my personal gain. Why? Because I was a little more of an adult than her, and she was of the age to be protected. Because she couldnt die here. Because I had to do everything I could. While I was flicking the abacus beads and watching my own step, this child put her life on the line.


    [The Shepherd Boy wishes to freeze your actions.]


    [Your movements are being dulled.]


    The Guardian involved himself rather directly, going so far as to put a debuff on me. He wanted the Red Eyes that desperately. Just what <em>was </em>this thing?


    My movements slowed visibly. I was a level 37 beginner yer. Even simple dulling made my body feel as if it were restrained.


    Seohye haspletely stopped breathing.


    It took a long time for me to move my arm. Everything seemed to move in slow motion.


    Oh.


    But thanks to everything being slowed down, I could notice more things. It was natural to see details you hadnt noticed before when ying something in slow motion.


    Seohye hasntpletely died.


    How could I put it? Her heart had stopped, as had her breathing. Scientifically speaking, she was dead. But what was this subtle feeling that she was alive?


    Theres some kind of flow connected to the Red Eyes.


    And these Red Eyes wanted to return to their owner. I had to give the Red Eyes back to her. The eyes I extracted with the Hand of Salvation had to be returned to their original ce. I looked at Seohyes pale white face, wondering what kind of world she had wanted to protect.


    Baseless belief and aspiration stirred within me.


    Ill save her.


    I could save her. No, I would definitely save her. Ahn Seohye hadnt died yet. Yeonseo snatched the Red Eyes out of my hand and lifted them.


    Boss Hyukjin. I have to give these Red Eyes to Seohye, right?


    I nodded. Time had slowed for me, so Yeonseos movements seemed extremely fast. She rapidly brought the Red Eyes to Seohyes eyes.


    How do I do this? Its not working. Yeonseo looked like she was going to cry. It says the power of an agreement is in effect.


    The power of an agreement?


    It says she cant absorb the Red Eyes.


    I realized what happened. The Shepherd Boy had yed a cruel trick. No wonder he handed out a marble with such an incredible effect. The penalty of death had been set down from the start.


    I bit my lips.


    Shepherd Boy.


    Was this a dead end?


    No.


    My desire to protect Seohye was as great as her desire to sacrifice her life to protect us. I wanted to revive her. Right now, right here, that was how I truly felt.


    [The Shepherd Boy breathes a sigh of relief.]


    [The Whispering Devil is having fun.]


    [The Lady of the Scales reproaches the Shepherd Boy.]


    [The Nameless Observer observes.]


    I focused on a certain fact.


    Only now is the Shepherd Boy relieved.


    The power of an agreement should have been in ce from the start, so why? Why was he relieved when I, a mere yer, shouldnt be able to breach that power?


    Considering how anxious he was earlier


    A thought shed through my mind.[Your movements are no longer being dulled.]


    Yeonseo looked at me, crying. Boss Hyukjin. What do we do? What should we do? Seohyes not gonna die, is she? She cant die. Shes not someone who can die here!


    I was able to move my body like usual again.


    Ill save her.


    * * *


    * * *


    I had already experienced false power once, and I had also broken it before. The power to discern the true nature of things, the power of insight, were powers I possessed. I had eyes that could see through lies.


    Seohyes incantation earlier was distorted.


    It was different from the incantation I knew. I knew the correct incantationit was just that I couldnt realize it properly. Still, the fact that I knew it was the important part.


    Ill correct that distortion first.


    <em>One who trusts even without seeing shall die even in life.</em>


    That was wrong.


    One who trusts even without seeing shall live even in death.


    This incantation was not an incantation to kill, but an incantation to save. I corrected it.


    Thy cry of agony and entreaty, I have heard.


    Thus shall I sublimate thycerating suffering into peace and joy.


    It was the same as back then. I used the Incantation of Salvation on Ahn Seohye.


    [<em>You who have trust.</em>]


    [<em>Imand thee. Open thy eyes and face the world.</em>][You have partially seeded in uttering the Will Incantation.]


    I didnt know what kind of meaning this incantation would have on me right now, or what I stood to gain from this incantation. I was simply driven by a gut sense that this was what I had to do.


    No matter what it is, I have to do everything I can.


    Everything I could to shatter the Shepherd Boys fabricated power. I didnt know what kind of agreement the Shepherd Boy and Seohye made, but that agreement was a fabricated power. That was how the System saw it, and something the Shepherd Boy himself knew.


    I will shatter it.


    I had also experienced a strong wish. That experience told me that my wish right now was to save Seohye.


    [The Guardian Tower is responding to the Guardian Tower Masters Guardian Will.]


    [The Guardian Tower acknowledges one with Guardian Will.]


    I immediately knew that the one with Guardian Will was referring to Seohye. Her feelings had been acknowledged by Tintin as well.


    The notices continued.[The Guardian Tower adds its Guardian Will to the Guardian Will.]


    My fervent wish to save Seohye was interpreted as Guardian Will, and the Guardian Tower bolstered me. It buffed me, so to speak.


    Cracks began to appear in the fabricated power enveloping Seohyes body. Naturally, it wasnt something you could see with the eye. My Eye of Perception just sensed it.


    Its still not enough.


    There wasnt much time. A little longer, and Seohye would really die. I had to topple this power.


    A thought shot into my head like an arrow.


    This power right now is my enemy.


    It was an enemy blocking my path. It might just be a false authority, but the person who put it in ce was the Shepherd Boy, of all Guardians. A powerful enemy.


    If I use this right now, the Shepherd Boy willpletely be my enemy.


    That was natur lowly yer would be regarding a Guardians power as an enemy and shattering it, after all.


    I was going to do that anyway.


    I immediately opened my mouth without a moment of further thought. My lips formed the incantation that I had experienced very briefly earlier as a mere shell.


    I will shatter it.


    That will took root firmly in my heart. This time, the incantation wasnt just a shell.


    The will to not flee in the face of a powerful foe.


    The fighting spirit to never waver, even when pushed to the breaking point.


    In the end, the Shepherd Boy revealed his true colors.[The Shepherd Boy assumes a hostile attitude towards you.]


    Hostility? He could bare his teeth as much as he wanted. Trash like him could see itself out the door.


    The ambition to topple without fail those who endanger all I hold dear.


    Those are the things I wish for.


    It was an elementary incantation, an easy one belonging to the basics. That also meant it was an incantation that could act as a foundation.


    I instantly heard a notice.


    [You have partially seeded in uttering the Will Incantation.]


    [Manifesting will based on the grade of the Will Incantation.]


    My Will Incantation wasntplete. To begin with, it was an incantation I cobbled together from the words spoken by the Fight King. V wasnt an idiot; there was no way he would have publicized an excellent incantation of high grade. From Vs point of view, the incantation he shared with the world was extremely low quality, and I was stealing and producing a mere imitation of that low quality incantation. Despite that, it was a definite fact that I sessfully uttered the Will Incantation.


    More cracks appeared in the fabricated power. And then, I was able to capture the correct timing for thest spurt.


    To incantation and incantation, I added another incantation. They might just be elementary incantations from the beginner period, but stacking multiple incantations would surely produce a stronger effect than just one.


    I wouldnt have known had I not experienced it, but the Incantation of Insight was familiar to me. All the experiences I had umted made me who I was today.


    Illusions and apparitions, distortions and lies, cannot covet me.


    No matter what ravine of evil in this world I must traverse.


    No evil power that seeks to harm me can vite me.


    Such is the power of intuition.


    The Eye of Insight that sees the true nature of things.


    Having experienced the Eye of Insight before, my Will Incantation was further fortified. I once again manifested the Eye of Insight that had pushed the fabricated authority of the Yellow Charm Gate to its knees.


    [<em>May all lies.</em>]


    [<em>Be shattered.</em>]


    The fabricated power wrapped around Seohyes body shattered entirely. I brought the Red Eyes to Seohyes eyes without dy.[Consume the Red Eyes?]


    The current Red Eyes were a consumable item. I didnt know what would happen, but I decided to go ahead with it. I didnt weigh this and that. I also used another special skill that hade off of cooldown.[Using the special skill (Courageous) Hunters March.]


    I did it unconsciously out of instinct, as naturally as breathing. Though I used it instinctively, I knew why I used the skill.3. +40% increase in effect of consumable items in a solo battle


    At this moment, the Red Eyes were a consumable item, and the skill gave a staggering +40% increase to its effect.


    [The Lady of the Scales holds your act of good in high regard.]


    [The Lady of the Scales sends you a Judgment of the Law as a sponsorship.]


    The Red Eyes melted down and flowed into Seohyes eyes.


    Please!


    Red light began to whirl around Seohyes body. The wicked looking energy swelled before streaming into her body.


    Huh?


    And then, Seohyes body began to disappear, starting from her feet.


    What?


    Her body faded like dust scattering in the wind. Yeonseo and Sunhwa screamed at the same time.


    NO!!!


    Her feet, her knees, then past her thighs to her stomach. Her chest, her neck, even her face. Shepletely disintegrated, just like Lily.


    What is this?


    I was struck with an iprehensible sense of dj vu. Seohye disappeared. And yet, she didnt disappear. She disappeared, but she didnt?


    I can definitely feel her presence.


    She was there, but her body wasnt.


    Where?


    The next moment, I could feel the energy around the Guardian Tower shimmer. Sunghyun apparently discovered it as well.


    Hyung. Look over there.


    I observed a new flow in the Guardian Tower Tintin.


    A red energy that could clearly be seen, even with the naked eye.

 Chapter 165

    Chapter 165


    That haze held the very existence of Ahn Seohye, mixed so thoroughly with the energy of the Red Eyes that the two could no longer be differentiated. It was like the Red Eyes were Seohye, and Seohye was the Red Eyes.


    If I were to look in the way that a Fire Giant sees the world


    Fire Giants had their unique method of perceiving the world, as did I. Through Observers Eye, Seohyes presence and the energy of the Red Eyes she had absorbed felt almost like one and the same, like they had always been one entity.[The Guardian Tower has concluded preparations to assimte the powerful Guardian Will.]


    It seemed the Guardian Will mentioned here was that thing that could not be precisely defined, the amalgam of Seohye and the Red Eyes energy.[With the Guardian Tower Masters consent, the process to assimte the Guardian Will shall begin.]


    This was the process to reform an iplete Guardian Tower into aplete one. But it wasnt a procedure I was very happy to see.[The sess rate for assimting the Guardian Will is less than 30%.]


    Seohye was no longer visible. But to my eyes, it was like she was standing next to the Guardian Tower. To be more exact, it looked like she was surrounding the Guardian Tower in mist-ified form.


    [(Courageous) Hunters March is in effect.]


    [The sess rate for assimting the Guardian Will has increased by 40%.]


    I took it all inthe Guardian Tower preparing to take in something new, and the red energy enveloping the tower.


    Ill ept it.


    I could instinctively feel that this was the utmost I could do right now.


    I have to focus.


    This was simr to enhancement. When enhancing an item, you needed Enhancement Crystals and Element Affinity Powder. Depending on the item, there were times when you needed other materials as well.


    This and enhancement are the same in essence.


    Could this really be called enhancement? I couldnt say. But there was no doubt that the process of assimtion was in the same vein as enhancement. At least, that was what I felt.


    Enhancement is affected by aplex mix of countless factors, including the yers talent, timing, and the fields attribute.


    It was the same now.


    When the flow of the Guardian Tower and the flow of the Red Eyes align


    I had to nail the timing, the most suitable and efficient moment for the Guardian Tower to ept the Guardian Will.


    It was like time stopped, like I was in a Pause. Every sound faded away. The only two things in the world were the Guardian Tower, me, and Seohyes afterimage.


    Now![By the order of the Guardian Tower Master, the Guardian Tower begins to assimte the Guardian Will.]


    The seemingly paused world began to move again.


    <em>sh!</em>


    A red light burst out.


    <em>Whooosh!</em>


    Red threads covered the sky. It was the Nemesis Doom Barrier that had been set up here in advance, the barrier that had swallowed the Fire Giants alive. It filled every inch of this space, the red threads so numerous they couldnt possibly be counted. Not long after, the swarming mass stretched out towards the Guardian Tower.


    The red threads have covered the Guardian Tower.


    It was almost like they were trying to hunt the Guardian Tower. But I didnt feel the same bloodthirst I had felt earlier.


    Seohye.


    I didnt know how things would unfold from here on out, either. But I could tell.


    Seohye isnt dead.


    She was alive. It would be pretentious to call this conviction Precognitive Eye, but it was a simr feeling.[Guardian Will is beginning to imbue the Guardian Tower.]


    My heart thudded as I looked at the red threads covering the Guardian Tower. The energies of the Guardian Tower and Red Eyes gathered in one ce, alternating between tangling and detangling, almost like they were trying to consume each other. It felt like two savage beasts were snarling at each other.


    Its not enough.


    The effect of the Red Eyes was greatly boosted by Courageous Hunters March, but it still wasnt enough. Something more was necessary.


    I spoke into the sky. I want to nurture my Guardian Tower into the best Guardian Tower.


    I didnt mention anyones name.


    I am well aware that you have been watching over me ever since the Shot Table Dungeon.


    Back then, I clearly heard a notice.[The Barrier of Blue Light has begun to pay attention to you.]


    When I was enhancing the Wind Shoes, the Barrier of Blue Light helped me by putting a temporary safe zone around me. Later, I even won a good chunk of the Barrier of Blue Lights goodwill.


    I know that you have helped me a lot, great Guardian.


    The Barrier of Blue Light themself put it like this:


    [The Barrier of Blue Light wants to help you.]


    [The Barrier of Blue Light states their strong will to sponsor you.]


    And not only that, but[The Barrier of Blue Light promises a big sponsorship.]


    That promise was what I was referring to now.


    Barrier of Blue Light, you who have so generously supported me, you once promised me a big sponsorship.


    I wanted to avoid direct deals with Guardians if at all possible, but desperate times called for desperate measures. In all things, there were times when you had to step forward and times when you had to step back. This was a time for the former.


    I promise to show what the Barrier of Blue Light wants to see.


    I had the confidence to back those words. I was confident I could fully amuse not just the Barrier of Blue Light, but most Guardians.


    This time, I had to take the straight path. I spoke frankly.


    Please help me just this once.


    Owing a Guardian a debt was absolutely nothing to be happy about. But Seohye put her life on the line. Owing a debt was nothing.


    I want to protect, I said honestly.


    In response to the sincerity I expressed in a statement made by thoroughly calcting the Barrier of Blue Lights disposition, I heard the same notice I heard in the past.[The Barrier of Blue Light keenly understands your feelings.]


    I added onest thing.


    I want your protection.


    A message the Barrier of Blue Light often sent came once again. The words were the same, but the sincerity within them was different.[The Barrier of Blue Light wants to protect you.]


    * * *


    * * *


    It was hard to say how this situation came about. Was it because the Shepherd Boy directly interfered? Because he used a fabricated power? Or was it because the Barrier of Blue Light truly wanted to protect me?[The Blessing of Blue Light has begun to descend on the Guardian Tower.]


    As the Guardian Tower Master, I could feel that Blessing of Blue Light had extremely goodpatibility with the Guardian Tower Tintin.


    The energies of the Guardian Tower and Red Eyes shing within the dome made of red thread began to mesh. It looked as though the Blessing of Blue Light was acting as an intermediary.


    Water and oil did not mix. But they could be made to mix if an emulsifier was addedthat was the role the Blessing of Blue Light was ying.


    [Countless factors taking effect and assisting the process.]


    [The Guardian Tower has sessfully assimted the Guardian Will.]


    That moment, the red threads started to get sucked into the Guardian Tower. A red eye appeared above the Guardian Tower Tintin, and the towers name changed.


    [Guardian Tower - Tintin]


    The Guardian Tower guarding the Guardian Field.<ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Growth-type Guardian Tower</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Guardian Tower Master: Kim Hyukjin</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    LVL: 1</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Special notes:</li></ul><ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; margin-left: 36pt;">


    Has absorbed the Red Eyes.</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; margin-left: 36pt;">


    Barrier Magicians ego.</li></ol>


    More precisely, the name [Guardian Tower - Tintin] changed from ck to blue, almost like a blue item from an enhancement.


    I heard a voice.


    (Thank you.)


    It was Seohye.


    Huh?


    I pinpointed where the voice wasing from.


    The Guardian Tower?


    It wasing from the tower.


    (I am told I need a new vessel.)


    This had to be what the Barrier Magicians ego in the special notes was referring to.


    (Dont worry too much. In due time, when the Guardian Tower grows, I think I will be able to materialize a body with my power.)


    The current Ahn Seohye was kind of like a consciousness imbued in the Guardian Tower. Butter, when the Guardian Tower grew, she would be able to have her own body.


    (Im alive.)


    I was stumpednothing like this had happened in the past. For the time being, I concealed my shock and expressed my thanks to the Barrier of Blue Light.


    Thank you. Because the Barrier of Blue Light protected me, I was able to achieve what I wanted. I will not forget this kindness.


    A follow-up of this level was necessary. Actually, a little boration from Senia would make a far better follow-up, but that was still too much to exphm? The ultimate stone face, Senia, was smiling brightly. Her wings were swaying gently as she streamed with words I couldnt understand.


    She still looked incredibly awkward in my eyes, but she seemed to believe that she was giving the best follow-up.[The Barrier of Blue Light is very satisfied.]


    For now, the Barrier of Blue Light didnt demand anything in particr. They were a Guardian who liked to protect something. It was possible that they felt extreme joy from the act of responding to my request for protection.


    (Darn, I want to eat hamburgers, but I cant.) Seohye continued to talk to me. (Please hurry and help me grow. I want to eat hamburgers.)


    I couldnt see her, but I thought I could see Seohye smile.


    (In the meantime, I will protect this Guardian Field perfectly. I should be able to channel far more strength than the original Guardian Tower.)


    She went on to say that although she couldnt move, her new hardware was much more suitable for a Barrier Magician than her previous body.


    (And Im really sorry, but) After quibbling for a bit, she finally continued. (About the way I address you)


    Seohye had a history of calling me sir. I understood, and never even thought to force a different address.


    (You might dislike it a little, but this is the set name.)


    I heard a System notice.[The quest Guardian Towers Vow is in progress.]


    It wasnt a very difficult quest. Clearly reaffirming the Guardian Tower - Guardian Tower Master rtionship was enough.


    (Um, so) Seohye hesitated for a long time. (I have to call you Master in order to officiallyplete the process.)


    Ah.


    <em>Master</em>.


    The heck was this strange, outdated form of address?


    (In the future, when I address Master, I have no choice but to call you Master.)


    This was October 2018. How could anyone in Korea get used to being called Master?


    (Even if I try putting it in other ways or saying other words, it will be interpreted as Master to you.)


    It was hard at first, but she seemed to have gotten the hang of it. The title came popping out of her metaphorical mouth with ease, even though it was painful to my ears.


    Still shes be more cheerful.


    After bing a Guardian Tower, Ahn Seohye brightened up, and she seemed to have opened her heart a little more to me. She was conversing with me with much greater ease than before.


    (Will you be my Master?)


    When I inwardly assented, the System notices continued.


    [The Servant-Master Rtionship of the Guardian Tower - Tintin has been fully established.]


    [The quest Guardian Towers Vow has been cleared.]


    [The Guardian Tower begins to faithfully fulfill its role of a Guardian Tower.]


    Well, alright. Whatever. She was alive. What she called me was hardly of any importance, and I could feel from her voice that she was a lot more sunny than the original Ahn Seohye.


    (Please tell Yeonseo unnie and Sunhwa that Im okay, too. I cant talk to other people yet.)


    Yes, I definitely had to tell them thatter, Seohye would once again be able to have a body with which she could walk around on her own two feet. Yeonseo and Sunhwa would be really happy to hear it.


    (And please tell Mister Yoohyun to stop crying. I dont like getting snot on my body.)


    I hadnt had the presence of mind to pay any heed to the others, but Yoohyun was crouched in front of the Guardian Tower, wailing. Tears the size of chicken eggs were streaming out of eyes as swollen as his muscles, and snot was dangling from his nose. It was like watching a rhinoceros crying its heart out.


    In any case, we sessfully hunted the Fire Giants.


    Seohye said it again.


    (Thank you.)


    Was it because we were now in a servant-master rtionship? I could feel Seohyes feelings more keenly than usual. She really meant her thanks. She continued, more talkative than usual.


    (Im happy that I have people to protect.)


    She seemed sincerely happy about that.


    (I think the world right now has be a lot brighter than when I had no one I wanted to protect. Minus the fact that I cant eat hamburgers.)


    The red eye shining at the top of the Guardian Tower no longer felt wicked. I could no longer say that was the aura of the Red Demon. From that energy came the will to protect.


    (Thank you so much.)


    I told the party everything about Seohyes current condition, including the part about how we would likely be able to meet her in the flesh in the future.


    Sunhwa rubbed her cheeks on the Guardian Tower, clinging to it. Lets go and eat hamburgers together for sure, Unnie! Ill earn a lot of money and buy you a hundred burgers!


    But just then, someone crashed our joyful celebration.


    You. Do you know that youre in for it now?


    I was aware that the Blood and Iron Queen, Song Junghye, had been here for a while. I looked in her direction as she walked up to me.


    Starting now, I will objectively inform you of the situation you are in.

 Chapter 166

    Chapter 166


    Song Junghye came up to me.


    State: Confident / Having Fun / Contempt for the Weak


    The other things aside, contempt for the weak? It seemed like she was feeling contempt towards me. But Song Junghye? To me? She shouldnt see me as weak for no reason.


    Kim Hyukjin. A prominent Guardian called the Shepherd Boy has begun to hate you.


    She put on quite a worried face.


    ...


    I could surmise what she was trying to say. I had invited the hatred of a Guardian of Shepherd Boys level, so I should drop down and crawl for mercy. She probably got some kind of quest from the Shepherd Boy. The situation sketched itself out in my head.


    And this energy is Gu Sungmin.


    The thief, the same Gu Sungmin who was leftpletely Coinless by Darongi in the past, wasing closer. Why was Gu Sungmining here, at this time?


    There he is.


    He was making his way rtively warily through the front gate of the DMC Riverview Xis Complex 1. He seemed to be extremely on guard against something.


    Against what?


    What would a thief have to be wary about? There was something here to steal, obviously. Song Junghye was here to distract me, though it was pretty ineffective. Gu Sungmin was walking towards the Guardian Tower.


    Hes going for the Red Eyes.


    The thief seemed to think he was moving quite sneakily, but his efforts fell short of escaping Observers Eye. [!!!] marks popped up above Darongis head, and the squirrel on my shoulder grinned upon seeing Gu Sungmin.


    Darongi ran down my body onto the ground and scampered off towards Gu Sungmin. An outstanding thief genius was running off towards a promising thief; the result was already predetermined. Gu Sungmin nearly had the skin on his back filched by Darongist time, but the guy had apparently not learned his lesson.


    While ying, there may be people who do not like my ying, I said.


    That couldnt be helped. I couldnt satisfy every Guardian anyway. iling to try and meet the expectations of a few would make you lose the majority.


    So? Did youe here to kindly inform me of that?


    The Blood and Iron Queen, Song Junghye. It was strange. How did she be a queen? She was too obvious and foolish.


    If I were you, I would have kept this fact to myself.


    What do you mean?


    I mean that I wouldnt sh a card that could be my opponents weakness in front of my opponent like this.


    Song Junghyes inner thoughts were obvious to the eye.


    You must have gotten some kind of quest from the Shepherd Boy.


    That was why she showed up here.


    And that quest is definitely rted to the Red Eyes. I pointed at Gu Sungmin. There just so happens to be a thief ss yer here. What might this mean, I wonder?


    ...


    I came closer to her.


    I dont know what you came here to do.


    Did she want to scare me? As if that would work. This was the path I chose, and I didnt have any regrets. If I was going to regret it, I wouldnt have done it in the first ce.


    Junghye flinched. The gaze looking up at me wasnt very pretty.


    And I wouldnt make such an expression in front of my opponent, either. Because I am someone who could be a great business partner of yours.


    Song Junghyes scowl disappeared. Business partner?


    Her tone implied, <em>The likes of you would dare</em>? The current Song Junghye was nursing a wounded pride. After all, I, a mere yer, had seen straight through her mind.


    Business partners are great, of course. But what business would I have with someone being hated by a Guardian like the Shepherd Boy?


    I incurred the Shepherd Boys hate due to an unfortunate series of events. That is an undeniable fact.


    I was sure of that.


    But there are countless Guardians who cherish me.


    I was their sole producer of content. That held true in the past, and it would continue to hold true in the future. Things werent immediately over for me because one Guardian hated me. In fact, I could actually use this situation to extract more diverse content. That depended on me.


    Thats why I simply did my best.


    It was best to vaguely express my vision and aspirations here. What I was saying was basically by the book. To put it another way, I was picking words with no faults to be targeted. I did that on purpose so that I could see what Song Junghye would say.


    Yes, fine. Do your best then.


    Her expression changed again. She was trying to force a smile, but failing to. Her eyes were filled with an energy close to murderous intent.


    Sloppy.


    She was truly clumsy, so much so that I almost pitied her.


    Song Junghye is not qualified to be the Blood and Iron Queen.


    It was said that a healthy and magnificent tree could be recognized from a seedling. One thing about a person could say a lot about the rest of them. The Blood and Iron Queen was just a hollow name with no substance. Right now, I could be sure of that.


    Song Junghye has someone helping her in the shadows.


    She was just the storefront. The woman herself could absolutely never topple Song Kiyeol and Taeguk Shield and go on to be the ruler of Sungshin.


    Jackson and Song Junghye met, right?


    Then was Jackson the one puppeteering her?


    It feels like the puzzle pieces are slowlying together.


    The Great Explorer said he had nevere to Korea before, said he couldnt speak Korean despite being fluent. What if Jackson outright denied any connections to Korea because there was something he wanted to hide?


    Its too early to be sure, but


    I still had to take it into consideration. The scenario where Jackson and Song Junghyes current rtionship of using each other reversed, turning into a situation where Jackson used Song Junghye as a front to control Sungshin was one I had to bear in mind.


    I should thank you, I said to Junghye.


    She had given me a wealth of information just by showing up here. Her poor judgment had gifted me another piece of the puzzle.


    For what?


    It appears that you have given me a present.


    Darongi was already back. I heard a scream from Gu Sungmin.


    AHHH! MY ITEM!


    * * *


    * * *


    [Darongi requests you to open his Inventory.]


    An item called Tomb Pilfering Shovel was in Darongis Inventory.


    [Tomb Pilfering Shovel]


    An artifact that can collect the essence of ruins, artifacts, and relics.


    *Grade: Legendary


    *Thief ss exclusive


    Well, hello.


    Legendary?


    Even for someone like me who had encountered two transcendent items, the legendary grade was surprising to see. This was a legendary item in the beginner period, of all times.


    Maybe its like a ss specialty.


    This shovel might be the first andst legendary item in Gu Sungmins life.[Darongi demands praise.]


    I patted the squirrels head.[Darongi demands intense praise.]


    I rubbed him a little more vigorously.[Darongi demands very intense praise.]


    Darongi flopped on his back on my shoulder.[Darongi demands even more intense and enthusiastic praise.]


    I tickled his exposed belly. Sometimes it was hard to tell whether Darongi was a squirrel or a dog.[Darongi is satisfied by his owners petting.]


    I petted Darongi a few times and got a legendary item out of it.


    What were you nning on doing with this shovel, I wonder?


    Song Junghye was calm.


    Whats that?


    She hadnt been able to hold her poker face earlier, but she was doing so very well right now. She seemed to have a knack for misdeeds.


    I wonder. What is it, indeed?


    If Song Junghye wouldnt spill the beans, Id have to rustle it out of Gu Sungmin. I heard Seohyes voice.


    (Um um)


    Thats right, I know. That title is hard for you, right? Its pretty meh for me too. Yes. Master. I get it, so just move on.


    (What should I do with this guy?)


    What else? Thieves must be caught. Especially if theyre a thief who tried to steal the Red Eyes.


    Red thread rushed out. The power of the Guardian Tower Tintin was fused with the power of the Barrier Magician Ahn Seohye. There was a barrier set up here, in the Guardian Field, and Gu Sungmins limbs were firmly tied up by the threads.


    If you dont tell the truth, youll never be able to escape. I turned to Yeonseo. Try cutting these threads with your sword. Oh, right. Your swords really amazing, right? Remind me, what was its base attack?


    Yeonseo grinned. She was indeed quick on the uptake. Oh, about 100.


    Of course, that was a lie. Even for Asura, 100 was impossible. That was a lie, but well A little lie against a thief could be forgiven.


    Yeonseo brought down her sword on the red threads.


    <em>ng!</em>


    It sounded like steel meeting steel.


    See? They cant be cut even with Yeonseos sword. Of course, axes or knives made with science are meaningless.


    Pl-Pl-Please spare me.


    Gu Sungmins face turned paper white. He seemed to believe he waspletely trapped.


    Still smiling brightly, Yeonseo mumbled, I heard starving to death is the most painful way to go


    I nced at Song Junghye. This truly amateur woman had no thoughts whatsoever to salvage this situation or did she?


    Surely not.


    She didnte alone. Her right arm, Kang Woongmin the Adamant, and the Poisoned Dagger Jung Sangchul who could be called her left arm, were with her. Jung Sangchul was in the vicinity of the front gate of the DMC Riverview Xi Complex 2.


    Surely she cant be nning that.


    Just then, Gu Sungmin shouted, I-I-Ill tell you everything! Ju-Just let me live, I beg you!


    And then, I was forced to acknowledge the situation I didnt want to believe. Because Jung Sangchul poised himself to attack Gu Sungmin.


    Jung Sangchul was the Poisoned Dagger. As was obvious from his name, his ss was one that dealt in assassination and poison. His specialty was ambushing and poisoning. His ability to attack his target from afar was especially remarkable, and he was quite the tricky opponent in GVGs.


    He wants to attack Gu Sungmin even though its not a PVP or GVG?


    The captured thief waspletely defenseless. If Jung Sangchul attacked Gu Sungmin right now


    Gu Sungmin would die with almost 100% certainty.


    And if Gu Sungmin died?


    The me would fall on me.


    There was quite a lot for Song Junghye to gain from Gu Sungmins death, his sacrifice. But even so, that was a method you shouldnt use if you were human. Even if it was profitable for you, if that profit came at the cost of someone elses life, you shouldnt do it.


    Its true that theft is reprehensible. I looked Song Junghye dead in the eye. But murdering is an even worse crime.


    Song Junghye underestimated me too much. No, she didnt underestimate me; shecked thepetence to judge me urately. Did she really think that she could sessfully kill someone in front of me using Jung Sangchul, a beginner far from the Poisoned Dagger in his prime?


    I was mentally connected with Seohye right now.


    Seohye. Move.


    The red threads shot out, knocking something away in midair. I glimpsed a thin poison needle about ten centimetres in length.


    I stared at Song Junghye.


    It seems theres no way for us to work together.


    No


    I <em>refuse</em> to work with you.


    Song Junghye had made a big mistake just now.


    Now, and forever.


    She crossed the line a person should never cross. From now on, Song Junghye was my enemy. I erased her from my list of potential business partners.


    (Master is hated by the Shepherd Boy, but that person is getting hated by Master.)


    Seohye had definitely gotten a lot sunnier. I thought I could hear her giggling.


    (If you were to ask me to choose, I would rather get hated by the Shepherd Boy. Sigh, I feel sorry for that woman.)


    So what was next? What would produce the best quality content? Since something like this had happened, I might as well make a show the Guardians would go crazy for.


    But just then, someone else suddenly involved himself, and in a way I hadnt seening.

 Chapter 167

    Chapter 167


    The person who jumped in was none other than Song Kiyeol. He strode over briskly and pped Song Junghyes cheek hard.


    <em>p!</em>


    A loud and crisp sound rang out.


    It was obvious that Kiyeol put a lot of strength in the blow. It was almost a full swing. Song Kiyeol could be called a Ranker in his own right, and he was a tank ss with a high Strength stat. Unable to take the impact, Junghye stumbled a few steps backward and slumped to the ground.


    She looked extremely shocked.


    Oppa?


    Judging from her expression, Kiyeols act waspletely out of line with his usual character. She clearly never even dreamed her brother would p her. Song Kiyeol shouted at her, his voice trembling with anger.


    Are you in your right mind?


    Thats what I should be asking you!


    Shut up. If you dont want to die.


    Junghye got up.State: Humiliation / Pain / Rage


    That wasnt surprising. She had just gotten pped out of nowhere in front of strangers, so it wasnt unreasonable that she was angry.


    Oppa. Do you want to get sued for assault? You want to go at it legally?


    Apologize right now.


    For what?


    Right now. Apologize to yer Kim Hyukjin.


    And for what?!


    Junghye kept cupping her cheek, probably because it still hurt. Her face had be very red, either from shame, rage, or both.


    You tried to steal the Red Eyes using Gu Sungmin.


    Was it from the shock of getting pped? Or maybe it was because she was talking to her brother? Song Junghye acknowledged it very easily.


    It was part of my scenario quest, so it couldnt be helped.


    Bingo. It was true she was trying to steal the Red Eyes.


    Since you were trying to steal something that belonged to someone else Im sure you also prepared yourself for what would happen if you were found out?


    At the same time, Kiyeol grabbed my arm, his grasp full of earnesty. I didnt shake him off.


    Mr. Kim Hyukjin. I am truly sorry. Shes my little sister. I will apologize in her stead. I am truly sorry. I will be sure to educate her fully so that something this disgraceful never happens again.


    No matter how I thought of it, the Blood and Iron Queen name did not suit Song Junghye. Her brothers ability to assess the situation was far faster, and his response was much better. The reason he pped his sisters cheek wasnt to really punish her, but to protect her from my retaliation.


    Should I say this was just an older brothers idiotic love for his sister?


    Hm. What to do now?


    Shall we bump up the Taeguk Shield Guildmasters prestige a bit?


    There were two options:pletely drive Song Junghye and Gu Sungmin into a corner by reproaching Song Kiyeol, or step back a little. Knocking Song Junghye and Gu Sungmin down a peg might seem like a great idea right now, but it wasnt that great considering the long-term.


    If I yield a little here


    When it was time to crush, you had to bring down your heel hard. If you were going to be half-hearted, it was best to not lift your foot at all. If I were to just let this slide without a clear cut resolution, there would definitely be a second, or third round of trouble.


    Song Junghye must think Im an easy target, huh?


    Then she would definitely make more moves against me in the future. Yeah, just letting it slide was fine. All of her little attempts would make good content for Senia and me. Excellent. It wasnt a half bad idea to let her crawl and struggle as much as she wanted. Because no matter how much she iled, she wasnt my opponent.


    I think I know the reason why you stepped in, Guildmaster Song.


    Though Song Junghye herself probably didnt.


    Fine. If I am given an apology now, I will let this slide.


    By apology Do you mean my little sisters apology?


    Yes.


    The Blood and Iron Queen was famous for her straight, unbending back. She was a woman who never yielded to others. What about the current Song Junghye?


    One things for sure. Shes got a shit ton of pride.


    It was the same now. I didnt see the qualities and the situational judgment deserving of the Blood and Iron Queen title, but she did indeed have the pride worthy of the name.


    Me? Why? Did I steal anything? I didnt. And I even got assaulted by you, Oppa.


    Sure enough, Song Junghye wasnt anywhere close to reflecting on her wrongs. She was truly foolish. No matter her feelings, it was the right call to apologize to me right now, at least if she wanted to maintain a semnce of a good rtionship with me.


    I shrugged.


    Well, if you dont want to, you dont need to.


    My mind flicked to Seohye. Due to our mental connection, my thoughts were immediately ryed to her.


    Let Gu Sungmin go.


    Did Gu Sungmin have any idea that he nearly died just now? The red threads around his arms and legs disappeared.


    <em>Thud!</em>


    The man fellically onto his butt.


    Oh Lord, dear God.


    His face was covered in a thin sheen of cold sweat. Fear seemed to have permeated his bones. I turned around. I was extremely exhausted; my eyes were closing on their own. I had done too much today. I was both mentally and physically hollowed out.


    The look in Song Junghyes eyes was quite enjoyable to me. Even I was surprised at myself for finding that vicious look enjoyable rather than scary.


    Just try I approached her, meeting those fierce eyes squarely. ...and crawl.


    I didnt fear her. Since I let her off so light handedly, she woulde at me more outrageously next time. I lowered my head to whisper very quietly in her ear.


    The next time you mess with me Youll have to put your life on the line.[Using the special skill Mettle.]


    My warning is sincere.


    She would feel terror. Sure enough, her face turned pale white. But what if that terror faded with time? Her humiliation would match the terror shed felt.


    Lets wait and see how a Blood and Iron Queen with a wounded pride will act.


    * * *


    * * *


    Three days passed after hunting the Fire Giants. I should have gone to clear the Gyeonghoeru a few more times, but I couldnt.


    To think I slept for three days straight


    I had slept for so long that my entire body ached. It was my first time finding out that a person could sleep for so long. I must have used too much strength facing the Fire Giants.


    In any case Im full of vitality.


    Perhaps because I came in contact with mes of a higher grade, the fire ki rooted inside me had be more pure and clean. It was a little weird to say fire was cleaner, but there was no mistake. With a little more enlightenment and a little more opportunity, the fire ki inside me would probably evolve into the next level, whatever that was.


    I have a lead.


    I had seen the path forward, the path for my growth. Even if it didnt happen right this moment, this fire ki would definitely grow, and the fire kis growth was equal to my own. I was sure of it. Although shing with the Fire Giants had seriously endangered my life, it was true that the encounter was a stepping stone for my development.


    I went with Sunhwa to our office near the DMC.


    Everyones here, so lets have a toast.


    We finally had a full-fledged guild office of our own now. It was located near the DMC, the Digital Media City, in a building close to the yers Association.


    So much had changed in just half a year. The entire floor of such a grand building was ours to use, though we only had six people in our crew. Of course, we didnt pay rentSungshin was handling that.


    Yeonseo gave me a small bouquet. Congrats, Boss. Weve be a real guild, too.


    Hyung. Sunghyun asked, Should I register the guild?


    No, Guildmaster Song agreed to do it for us.


    Yoohyun seemed to be very excited. Didnt Guildmaster Song also say he was paying the rent, Hyungnim?


    Of course.


    Yeonseo broke into another bright smile. I dont know why you think him paying the rent is a natural and obvious thing, but whatever, its great that we dont have to pay. Right?


    Everyone agreed,ughing. Oh, right. Technically speaking, Song Kiyeol wasnt paying our rent. It was just that the entire building belonged to him.


    In any case things have really changed.


    In thest six months, I changed a lot, and so did the world. Official guilds were established, and these guilds were acknowledged by the yers Association and given Guild Licenses. Of course, individuals could also acquire yer Licenses, like the intermediate and highest rank licenses Song Kiyeol mentioned to me before. For reference, the licenses I was given were Rank 7 and Royal, a rank given to only one yer in all of Korea.


    Never thought a civil service student like me would one day end up getting a formal yer License.


    The Royal one was just a symbolic rank created by Song Kiyeol as a sign of his sincerity, but the intermediate Rank 7 one wasnt too shoddy, either. Even if they didnt have outstanding talent, people who worked rtively hard at ying typically received Rank 7 or 8. Licenses started at 10, and the lower the number, the stronger the yer. They went from Rank 10, 9, 8, 7, and so on. A Rank 7 license was dead average, a rank that invited neither mockery nor special treatment.


    Sunhwas face was slightly flushed. I guessed it was excitement from our guild finally having a formal name.


    The kids at school were telling me not to lie, saying what kind of guild doesnt even have a name.


    That so?


    I said I was in the same guild as Mister Yoohyun and Yeonseo unnie, but no one!no one!!believed me.


    Well, that wasnt a bad thing. It meant we were that hidden from the publics eye. In any case, our guilds name was decided. The idea came from Sung-gu.


    Oi. Fuck. Who are we? Arent we like the uber special fuckin'' strong guild that thrashed Fire Giants?


    He nodded to himself with a Yeah, thats right! Were like uber special ss, then continued to boast.


    Since weve steamrolled giants, cant we call ourselves the giant gods?


    And then, he mmed the office table a few times in excitement. Giantgod Guild. Well, it didnt have a bad ring to it. No one had much interest ining up with names, so everyone unanimously agreed on Giantgod.


    Cmon, cmon. Hyukjin. You gotta give me royalties, no?


    ...


    I came up with the name.


    Were changing the name.


    ...


    Sung-gu pouted. Seriously, the blessed are the stingiest.


    I didnt know what I was blessed with, but whatever. Sung-gus lips squirmed for a while in a show ofint. But just a few minutester, he said, Im the one who came up with it, but man, this names got he snazz and aesthetic. Dont you think so, Giant~God girls and boys?


    Sadly, his overwhelming enthusiasm fell on deaf ears, and no one responded. Pouting, Sung-gu went on to sing, Im the pitiful Loner-gu~ I have no friends~


    Anyway, I was of course picked to be the guildmaster of our Giantgod Guild.


    The Giantgod Guild didnt exist in the past.


    So Yoohyun, Shin Yeonseo, Jo Sunghyun, even Choi Sung-gu. I never would have dreamed that a partyposed of these all-star yers would be established. I was once again amazed by the fact that four of the 8 Heroes were here, in one ce.


    At least these four wont sh with the Demon King.


    The 8 Heroes title was earned from their encounters with the Demon King. But now, they were a part of the Giantgod Guild, so there should be almost zero asion for them to butt heads with the Demon King. That was because I still didnt intend on bing total enemies with the Demon King. This alone was a huge change. Because of me, the future changed a great deal.


    But as I suspected, the big currents havent changed.


    Though the details and small puzzle pieces were constantly changing, the general flow was unchanged.


    November 27, 2018.


    The date of the Gran Seoul Dungeons opening.


    The Gran Seoul was a massive building adjoined to the Gwanghwamun D-Tower. The Gwanghwamun D-Tower and the Gran Seoul would both dungeonize.


    Its actually the dungeon that marks the end of the beginner period.


    That dungeon was the gateway leading from the early-game into the mid-game. A dungeon that all yers in the Korean serverexcluding very exceptional Irregrshad to challenge in order to break into the mid-game.


    Itll open soon.


    In the meantime, we could keep racking up EXP while clearing the Gyeonghoeru Field. After parting with the others, I went towards the yers Association to have a meeting with Song Kiyeol.


    You appear to really care for Miss Junghye, I said to him.


    That was why he pped her cheek three days ago.


    Last time, I just let things slide in consideration of Guildmaster Song.


    To be more precise, it was more that I let the bait (Song Junghye) go so I could draw a bigger picture, but well. I didnt have toy it out <em>that</em> honestly.


    But next time, I wont just turn a blind eye.


    Did Song Kiyeol know that his little sister tried to ruthlessly kill Gu Sungmin, or was he in the dark? Or did he know, but he didnt want to believe it? Everyone had their weaknesses. It seemed Song Junghye was Song Kiyeols weakness, and a very fatal one, at that.


    Yes. I apologize for jumping in like that back then.


    No, shes family to you. I do understand.


    Though whether Song Junghye truly thought of Kiyeol as family was iffy. After some conversation, I went back home.


    I once again flipped through the notepad that hade back to the past with me.


    <em>Nov. 27, 2018. The Gran Seoul Dungeon opens.</em>


    There were less than two weeks left. We would have no choice but to continue our boring grinding until then.


    Two weeks passed. I reached level 38, and the others were also around 37-38.


    Our levels are more than high enough.


    On November 24, I went to the Gran Seoul building with Sunhwa, exploring the area. I looked around thoroughly just in case another early adopter scenario popped up, but I couldnt find any real clues. The 25th and 26th passed simrly uneventfully.


    And then came the long-awaited 27th of November.


    Itll open today.


    The Gran Seoul Dungeon was supposed to open. That was a ce we absolutely had to clear in order to hit the mid-game, whether we liked it or not.


    But it didnt open.


    Another day passed. It was now November 28th, 2018. The Gran Seoul Dungeon still hadnt opened.


    Something had changed.

 Chapter 168

    Chapter 168


    November 28, 2018. The Gran Seoul Dungeon still hasn''t opened.


    I have no idea why.


    I only knew the result. I searched the area several times, but my investigation came up empty.


    Thisll make things a pain.


    I had changed the future a lot. That was a definite fact. But it was best if the big currents stayed the same. Only then could I take what there was to take and avoid what there was to avoid.


    The dy of the Gran Seoul Dungeons opening would definitely decrease the overall skill level of the Korean servers yers.


    To think Oppas sense would be wrong. How fascinating.


    Sunhwa licked her ice cream with a look of utter bliss. It amazed me that she could enjoy her ice cream so much even though the weather had be quite a bit cooler.


    But does the Gran Seoul Dungeon <em>have </em>to open?


    There was an implied question in her words: Werent we already busy enough as is? She meant that we were already strapped for time just clearing the Gyeonghoeru Field.


    ording to what Ive confirmed, we can only reach level 40 with an item from the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    Really?


    Yeah. No matter how much EXP we umte, we need something from the Gran Seoul Dungeon to get to level 40.


    She didnt ask me how I knew this. Sunhwa would believe me no questions asked if I said a cat was a dog.


    Then dont we have to open the Gran Seoul Dungeon somehow?


    Yeah.


    But I didnt know the condition for its opening. What kind of condition was fulfilled in the past to open the Gran Seoul Dungeon? Why wasn''t the next scenario proceeding?


    Another day passed. I cleared the Gyeonghoeru with the others a few more times and went to the Gran Seoul again. The area was bustling with countlesspany workers in suits. The time was 6:15 pm.


    Must be the time for people to get off work.


    There were a ton of people. People with all sorts of different faces and expressions waited at the crosswalk for the signal to cross. When the signal turned green, the crowd streamed out like the ebbing tide. There were really a lot of people.


    As I watched, I suddenly realized a certain fact.


    Because I returned to the past


    A lot of people who were supposed to have died, survived. It was because I changed the past. I prevented several dungeon breaks and recently brought an end to the attack of the Fire Giants. Each of those events were supposed to have caused at least a few thousand more casualties.


    Is it because too many people survived?


    I thought back to the Tutorial Field. I clearly remembered the notices I heard when I cleared it.


    [The number of survivors is 5087.]


    [The difficulty has been set to Low.]


    The Cataclysm ten years ago from the past I remembered also had 5087 survivors. And the Cataclysm I cleared after I went back in time also had the exact same number of survivors, 5087. What if this thing we called the System already had set values?


    The Fire Giants were originally supposed to have killed 30,000 people.


    But I orchestrated their deaths, bringing down the casualties from 30,000 to 6,000. 30,000 were supposed to have died, but only 6,000 did.


    There was another cluethe U-Plex Dungeon. There had been a slight issue at the beginning there as well.


    [No humans with lifeforce can be detected within the U-Plex.]


    [The activation condition of the U-Plex Dungeon has not been satisfied.]


    It could be that the progression of the Systems scenarios was contingent on human lives.


    Right now, thats the only conclusion I can make.


    Because I prevented too many deaths, the number of lives the System wanted hadnt been reached.


    But the System moves ording to the predetermined setting.


    I couldnt be 100% sure, but the System most likely wanted to open the Gran Seoul Dungeon. That was the natural flow of events. But the condition to open it hadnt been satisfied. Then what method did that leave?


    It will try to kill people another way.


    And just then, I heard a voice.


    Our scenarios keep ovepping.


    Dashingly tall, broad shoulders, an affable, good-natured looking face. It was the man I knew as the Great Explorer, Jackson.


    Jackson continued with a beaming smile. I cant help but think our meeting is not a coincidence. Dont you think so?


    What brings you here, Jackson?


    I sensed the signs of a dungeon opening here. He tilted his head. But huh, how strange. I think it should have opened already, but it hasnt.


    ...


    He was indeed a great explorer. He didnt even know the future, yet he was able to discern such things. He was at the apex of the explorer ss.


    Hyukjin. Do you have any insights, by any chance?


    I do.


    I told him what I had inferred.


    If what youre saying is correct, theres a set value for scenario progression, and the scenario will only proceed if that number is reached?


    That is what I currently suspect to be the case.


    Jackson fell into a moment of thought. A set value, you say. He nodded in understanding. We could indeed approach the issue like that.


    He spoke quickly, like something had urred to him. I told you before, but Korea has taken a strangely low amount of damage. Compared to the other servers, the losses are conspicuously low.


    He was right. I made it that way.


    That should mean that the Korean yers are overwhelmingly stronger than the yers of the other servers, but thats also not the case. Though of course, the average quality of yers is on the high side.


    It is your belief that the losses are too low regardless?


    Yes. Far too low. Jackson continued. As one might expect, Im part of a guild.


    I know.


    He was in the most famous guild in Ennd, Imperialism. I heard they were frequently at odds with Taeguk Shield in Boracaytely.


    We have an outstanding Precognitive Dreamer in our guild as well.


    ...


    The precision of his Precognitive Dream is on the extremely high side, too. However, he has been gued by headaches these days.


    Headaches?


    These words really werent the kind of basic vocabry a foreigner should have such a naturalmand over.


    He seems to be having a lot of precognitive dreams about Korea because Im here. But I am told that only the precognitive dreams rted to Korea keep changing. As you know, seeing the future is an act that causes great physical strain.


    He told me about precognitive notes, the same notes Kiyeol had ryed to me from the Precognitive Dreamer Ham Sohyun. The Precognitive Dreamer in Imperialism could make them as well.


    Whenever he sees a certain man, the precognitive note always burns up.


    The precognitive note he barely managed to write down burned up, and he had to write a new one. Jackson lowered his voice.


    The name of that man His voice got even quieter, and with apletely serious expression, he said, Five bucks if youre curious.


    ...


    I briefly contemted hitting him, but I swiftly drew out five bucks from my pocket.


    FIve bucks. There.


    If he said nonsense now, he would be really asking for it. I channeled that threat in my fist.


    That man has no name.


    No name?


    He is a man with no name. Well, as you know, thats just how precognitive dreams are. Theyre all vague and ambiguous, you know?


    No name.


    Nameless.


    It was a little iffy, but I did suspect it had something to do with me. Because my contracted Guardian was the Nameless Observer.


    In any case, I must find that nameless man.


    Howe?


    Because he will interfere with the kings path.


    After saying that, Jackson raised his hand in farewell. Look at how the time has flown. Regrettably, I think our meeting will have to end here.


    ...


    Jackson strode away with mock cheerfulness.


    He will interfere with the kings path?


    What could that mean? If that person interfered with the kings path, did Jackson mean to kill him? It was faint, but I sensed killing intent from Jackson. If my Eye of Perception wasnt broken, it was definitely killing intent. To think I felt killing intent from the Great Explorer heralded as a paragon He was a little different from the Great Explorer I imagined.


    Just then, a notice interrupted my thoughts.[The sh scenario Survive for 24 Hours has begun.]


    A new sh scenario that hadnt happened in the past was triggered.[This scenario will be automatically cleared when someone survives for 24 hours, or 38,122 humans die.]


    Like with the Tutorial Field, a sudden sh scenario descended.


    The Gran Seoul region became hell on earth.


    * * *


    * * *


    The world around us turned red. The foul reek of sewage began to creep in, so disgusting it was hard to breathe. Fog rolled in around us.


    The Primordial Fog.


    A fog that confused your sense of direction.


    <em>Whirrrrrrrr!</em>


    An emergency siren went off. To be exact, the siren didnte from here, but outside.


    This area has been cut off.


    The field itself was enclosed. It was the same as when the Guardian Tower was summoned. There were two different fields, outside and inside. Life was going on as usual in the outside field, but here, a 24-hour survival scenario was in progress.


    Jongno.


    A foul sewage smell.


    Thick fog.


    The situation was simr to the Tutorial. I had experienced it back then, but this time, the fog was even thicker. I could hardly see past my nose.


    I cant see.


    I lost my sense of direction. I was in front of the Gran Seoul, but I could no longer tell that the building was there.


    If it goes like the Tutorial, monsters will appear.


    At first, Goblins showed up. But that was literally the tutorial, the easiest mode. Now that it was the beginner period, there was a very high chance monsters stronger than Goblins would spawn.


    And I was right.


    <em>Awoooooo!</em>


    A howl rose eerily around me. It was the cry of a Lycanthrope.


    Goblins were the first to appear in the Tutorial, and in this Survive for 24 Hours scenario, level 25 Lycanthropes were the first.


    The Systems determined to kill 30,000 people.


    I was too exposed right now.


    My sense of direction is very muddled right now, but


    Thankfully, I had a special power otherscked called Observers Eye and Eye of Perception.


    This way.


    The Gran Seoul and D-Tower were nearby. I walked towards the D-Tower. That was a beginner area and should be set as a safe zone. In a situation where I knew zilch, that was the safest ce.


    As I made my way, several Lycanthropes attacked me, but it wasnt all that dangerous. I was already level 38. I had over ten levels on them in level alone. They were no longer the Lycanthropes I once feared.


    <em>Slice!</em>


    Isabel shed a Lycanthropes throat.


    [Lycanthrope has been killed.]


    [EXP cannot be acquired.]


    [Items cannot be acquired.]


    I moved while focusing on Eye of Perception. I had scouted this area out several times in preparation for the Gran Seoul Dungeons opening, so thankfully, I didnt have much trouble finding my way. After quite a while, I finally made it to the D-Tower.


    The Primordial Fog was a little sparser around the D-Tower. I could at least see two to three meters ahead of me. I heard another notice.


    [In consideration of the Low difficulty, a TIP will be given.]


    [The Gwanghwamun D-Tower is set as the Tutorial Building.]


    [The Tutorial Building is a Safe Zone.]


    [If you move to the Gwanghwamun D-Tower, your survival chances will increase.]


    As soon as I heard those notices, I realized something new.


    This notice just now!

 Chapter 169

    Chapter 169


    [If you move to the Gwanghwamun D-Tower, your survival chances will increase.]


    The Systems kindness didnt end there.[The Primordial Fog will disappear for a set time.]


    My vision began to clear. The Primordial Fog that had muddled my sense of direction and kept me from seeing no further than my nose disappeared, slowly revealing the tragedy around me.


    Many people died.


    The street was already littered with bodies. A few Lycanthropes and Goblins were ripping into the corpses. Smoke was billowing from one of the scattered cars.


    <em>Fwip!</em>


    I hurled a dagger. It was just an ordinary dagger you could buy from the Beginner Shop, but it was more than enough to kill one of the feasting Goblins.


    The System is being too kind.


    Before I regressed, almost everyone longed to be a yer. I was, of course, one of them. I envied them even while knowing it was a pipe dream. ying was a treasure I could not possess, and the only refuge in my life. That was why I knew a little more about ying and the System than the average person. No, I knew a <em>lot </em>more. Researching ying was pretty much the only hobby I had.


    Its very rare for the System to be this kind.


    Such cases were few and far between. The System prioritized scenario progress above all else. That was what humanity had determined over ten years. The Guardians were a diverse cast with varying dispositions, but not the System.


    If something exists, its because the System requires it, or its for the rules. That is how it operates.


    The System had several premises called Rules. It was because the System had several absolutes that I was able to talk to Senia at the beginning of the Tutorial and could keep my head high, even when opposing Yoohyuns Streamer, Neptune. Though there were just a few of them, and humanity wasnt able to figure out all of them, it was a definite fact that such guidelines existed.


    The System wants the scenario to proceed.


    I put myself in the Systems shoes.


    I would want to make the scenario progress as quickly as possible.


    From that, I could tell.


    Its a trap.


    A TIP wasnt being given out because the difficulty was Low. This was a trap, the kind that lured in its prey beforeing down with a snap. A creature on the level of a Fire Giant couldnt be summoned for a mere sh scenario.


    It cant summon a Fire Giant, so it will hunt the prey with a slightly weaker monster.


    The System would lure the yers to one spot and hunt them. There <em>was </em>precedent for this kind of event. In the past, something like this happened in the Battle of the Maldives that made Shin Yeonseos name of Sword Empress famous worldwide.


    Many people were swarming towards the front doors of the D-Tower, people who didnt know this was a trap.


    The System will kill as many people as needed for the rules.


    That was probably the kind of scenario this was. If the objective of this scenario was ughter, then we could not avoid that. You could think of this as a sort of natural disaster in a world following the advent of new culture. Just like how humans could not block a tsunami, we could not block the progress of this scenario.


    However


    Humanity couldnt block a tsunami, but we could make a shield. We couldnt stop earthquakes, but we developed technology to resist them.


    I have to do what I can.


    I couldnt stop what was toe, but I couldnt just sit around doing nothing. That was how humanity had survived all this time, and how we would continue to survive.


    I moved towards the front doors to let the people know that this ce was dangerous, that this was a trap created by the System. Whether they believed me or not came second. What I could do right now was warn. It was their choice to believe that warning or not.


    But in front of the doors, I saw a certain person.


    You think you can just barge in here?


    I knew that face. The Gatekeeper Lee Sungcheol. He wasnt a Ranker or that strong a yer, but his name and appearance were quite well known thanks to his unique ability.


    If you want to go in, youd better pay the toll.


    I saw something. Something like a transparent barrier appeared in the front doors of the D-Tower, a thin barrier imbued with a weak power you couldnt see with the naked eye.


    The Entry Blocking authority.


    In truth, it was a bit iffy to call it an authority. That was a word that applied to things like the powerful wish or the Shepherd Boys fabricated authority. The barrier Lee Sungcheol put up was too weak to be called an authority.


    Hes causing trouble, even here.


    In the past, Lee Sungcheol caused problem after problem and then disappeared without a trace one day. The prevailing theory was that he was eliminated by Taeguk Shield, but there was no way to confirm it.


    Lee Sungcheol smiled with an air of ease.


    Yep, you cant get in. Cough up your money. Ill take both Coins and items.


    The crowd protested loudly.


    What gives you the right to do something like this?!


    That moment, I saw itthe weak authority covering the front doors pulsed with killing intent. I just watched from the back. It might be killing intent, but it was weak. An arrow shot out from the doors, flying towards the man whoined.


    Ngh!


    The arrow wasnt very deadly. It struck the mans chest before turning into light and disappearing. The man fell to his knees, clutching his chest in obvious pain.


    Thats exactly as strong as it gets.


    Lee Sangcheols ability was only strong enough to inflict intense pain. However, it was perfect for drawing attention.


    You crazy bastard!


    Someone swung a sword at Lee Sangcheol.


    <em>ng!</em>


    There was the sound of steel meeting steel. The mans de was unable to reach Lee Sangcheol.


    That weak authority also includes a defensive ability.


    It was an annoying ability that could be used in front of any door. For example, at dungeon or gate entrances. At such ces, Lee Sangcheol was powerful.


    Move!


    What gives you the right to do this?!


    In the meantime, a Lycanthrope ran in and killed a few people. Many people had gathered here, the area steadily bing more and more chaotic.


    I silently watched the situation unfold.


    Its good for me if he draws a lot of attention.


    Even if I warned people now, no one would listen. They would all stream inside the D-Tower without heeding my warning. But what if the warning came from someone who easily dispatched the opponent no one could do anything about? Things would be a little different then.


    Several people angrilyined, but Lee Sangcheol was unmoved.


    If you wanna go in so badly, give me the money.


    Do your eyes not see the dead people over there?


    Sure, I can see em alright.


    A tussle broke out. Several yers attacked Lee Sangchul, but he was being protected by a special ability.


    Arrows shot out from the D-Tower doors.


    Gah!


    A yer fell over, clutching his eye which an arrow had struck, and blood was streaming down his face.


    You really should have listened. Lee Sangcheol kicked the copsed man in the face, scowling. People never fucking listen when you say things nicely. No more warnings from now on. If you dont listen, Ill kill you for real.


    I knew that was an empty threat. That arrow attack just now was Lee Sangcheols full power. If he tried using more strength than that, the weak authority would probably fall apart. His air of ease was just an act.


    A few people came to terms with reality.


    H-How much do you want?


    Hmm, about as much as you think your life is worth?


    Another few protested and were taken down by arrows. As I watched, I was once again convinced that I was right.


    Even though there are this many people here


    A crowd of this size should draw aggro, but no monsters came, other than the Lycanthrope at the beginning.


    If theres a limit to the power the System can materialize in this scenario


    It was highly likely that power was all concentrated in the D-Tower. Which meant, as long as you didnt go into the D-Tower, there was a high chance you could sessfully survive for 24 hours.


    The winner of the current situation was Lee Sangcheol.


    People are really paying to go inside.


    Everyone was focused on him. I slowly walked over. In the Tutorial Field, I swore that I would never live like I had in the past. That I didnt want to live like that ever again. The current me was different from the person I had been in the Tutorial Field.


    I stopped in front of Lee Sangcheol.[Using the special skill Cognitive Dissonance.]


    * * *


    * * *


    Lee Sangcheol believed he was the true king of the hill. At least, until a monster appeared.


    Gugh!


    That monster suddenly showed up, ripped his innate ability [Entry Blocking] to pieces with a swipe of his sword, and sent him sprawling with a single punch.


    Urgh sp-spare me, he squealed, dazed out of his wits. Sp-Spare me!


    Kim Hyukjin needed to draw peoples attention, so he intentionally made the scene more violent. He ground into Lee Sangcheols face with his foot.


    I have a warning to give you all.


    This ce had long since descended into chaos. Even though Hyukjin had crushed Lee Sangcheol with overwhelming force, there were just too many people.[Using the special skill Mettle.]


    Kim Hyukjins level was 38. No one here had a higher level than him. The area in front of the D-Tower instantly hushed. Everyone froze in ce like frogs before a snake.


    A pin-drop silence that didnt suit the pandemonium descended on the crowd.


    Its much more effective than I thought.


    Put another way, the level of the yers was lower than he thought. The Unawakened were one thing, but the yers around him werepletely terrified.


    The D-Tower is dangerous. It is a trap created by the System.


    Someone mustered his courage. Why should we believe you?


    You dont have to believe me. Hyukjin gestured to the door. Those of you who want to go in, feel free to do so. I wont stop you.


    He withdrew his Mettle and took two steps aside, opening the path to the door. People began to nce uneasily at each other.


    Ive warned you, make no mistake. Our goal is to survive for 24 hours. We just need to survive. Hyukjin pointed to the buildings in the vicinity. See the nearby buildings? There are many ces to hide. The monsters arent very intelligent, so as long as you hide yourselves well, you can definitely survive.


    This was all the warning he could give.


    What if youre tricking us and nning to go inside?


    So many people out there were prone to oveplicating things. Hyukjin had no need to do that, nor did he have a reason to. It would be great if they would just believe him, but the world wasnt so simple. And to be honest, it wasnt all that strange that they doubted him. It was also true that the person on the other end of that doubt, Hyukjin, wasnt feeling terribly happy either.


    Hyukjin asked back, Me?


    He walked forward. As someone with Observers Eye, he could see more than others.


    The man wasnt able to say a thing to Lee Sangcheol.Summary: Scaredy Cat Attention-Seeker Enthralled by Reasonable Doubt


    His summary was extremely long, an indication of howplicated the mans mental state was. Hyukjin smirked. This man was a coward who couldnt even squeak at Lee Sungcheol, who was likely to retaliate, but he sure was loudmouthed with Kim Hyukjin, acting like he was some kind of genius.


    Thats right. Why should we believe you?


    Hyukjin went up to the man.


    I told you before, Hyukjin said, putting a hand on the mans shoulder. The man flinched in surprise. You dont have to believe me.


    He never said they <em>had </em>to believe him. Hyukjin casually walked past the man.


    If you want to go inside, feel free.


    He had done everything he could.


    [The Nameless Observer is observing.]


    [The Lady of the Scales finds your actions very agreeable.]


    Hyukjin did his best. The choice was now up to these people.


    He continued to walk.


    As for me


    Thanks to the Lady of the Scales, he found something else he needed to do here. A method to handle this sh scenario more actively than before urred to him.

 Chapter 170

    Chapter 170


    When you thought about it, the System wasnt just and unbiased. It just operated for a few Rules, and mankind hadnt been able topletely figure out what those were.


    Lets assume that there can be Rules that contradict each other.


    If I assumed the Rule applying to the System right now was sacrifices to open the Gran Seoul Dungeon are necessary, then it was a fixed fact that sacrifices were needed.


    But what about the method to procure those sacrifices?


    Luring and hunting by making a sh scenario that didnt exist in the past.


    Was this method really a suitable Rule for the System? Or was it merely a workaround to create sacrifices? If this was a workaround


    I recalled a saying.


    <em>A problem is a problem because someone thought of it as a problem. If no one takes issue with it, it wont be a problem.</em>


    There was some sense in it. If no one had an issue with something, it wouldnt be recognized as a problem. What if the same applied now?


    The System isnt a party you can reason with.


    If an Intermediate Administrator was using a cheat to make fools of the yers, you could just reason with them. They were a party you could reason with, to some extent. But not the System. Even if you tried to speak to nature, there was no way nature would listen.


    Conversing with the System, huh


    That was a totally different concept from physical speech. If you wanted to talk to the System, you needed a System method. And I realized what kind of method that was.


    Judgment of the Law.


    You could talk to the System by using a setting determined by the System.


    [Judgment of the Law]


    Regtionsws created by the ord of societys majority.


    Actions tacitly and universally deemed good.


    The Systems Rule will be temporarily set to Just. The caster will be given the rights of an Arbitrator towards all acts that defy justice. The Arbitrator officially files objections to all acts that contradict justice, can mete out due punishment within set bounds to those who contradict justice, and will be conferred the requisite power and authority.


    This was the item the Lady of the Scales had gifted me. I focused on one line in the description.The Systems Rule will be temporarily set to Just.


    Going off this sentence


    Temporary justice.


    That meant it wasntabsolute justice. That one sentence revealed that the System wasnt perfectly just by default.The caster will be given the rights of an Arbitrator towards all acts that defy justice.


    And if I used this and was given the rights of an Arbitrator, I would be able to talk to the System by way of the System.


    I didnt think about it for long.[Use Judgment of the Law?]


    I used it right away.


    [Judgment of the Law is taking effect.]


    [Setting the target for Judgment of the Law.]


    [Please think of the target for Judgment of the Law in concrete terms.]


    I thought of it in concrete terms. The opening of the Gran Seoul Dungeon. The inadequate sacrifices to make that happen. Or the workaround, the crooked method produced by the Systems blind pursuit of its goal of creating sacrifices.


    [Judgment of the Law has taken effect.]


    [Judgment of the Law has discovered a factor that contradicts justice.]


    My body suddenly seemed to grow light.[You have received the rights of an Arbitrator.]


    It was hard to put into words. It felt like my level instantly skyrocketedmy body was as light as a feather. It was just a feeling, but I felt <em>powerful,</em> like a wave of my hand could create typhoons and mes would shoot from my mouth when I spoke. Almost as if I had be a supreme being.


    In an instant, I realized how I was supposed to think, how I should guide this situation.


    I will correct the crooked workaround.


    This one premise revealed the Arbitrators authority.


    [Proim the Arbitratorsmand.]


    [The Arbitratorsmand will be alive and correct the injustice.]


    There was still a little time left in Cognitive Dissonance.


    I shall correct the crooked workaround.


    At the same time


    [The Arbitratorsmand has been proimed.]


    [Correcting the injustice.]


    The world instantly turned to ck and white, like a field with a Pause authority in effect.[Restructuring the field.]


    A Pause authority actually did take effect. The System voluntarily used a Pause authority without the interference of any Guardians or Intermediate Administrators. Id never seen such a thing happen before.


    [Reestablishing justice in ordance to the Arbitratorsmand.]


    [The System epts the justice.]


    [The difficulty of the field will be adjusted ording to the level of the current yers and the scenario difficulty (Low).]


    It was as I thought. The System used a cheat to achieve its objective. I corrected that cheat with Judgment of the Law.


    The yers around me apparently heard the same notices.


    Wait, the difficulty is greatly decreasing!


    The heck is an Arbitrator?


    No idea. In any case, the difficultys gone down.


    In the meantime, a few yers ignored my warning and went into the D-Tower. Another few paced in front of the doors, some of whom turned and left.


    I heard conversation all around me.


    Hey, do you remember the face of that insanely strong-looking yer just now?


    Huh?


    We should remember him if he showed that much strength, but


    Yeah, his face was so ordinary that I dont remember it.


    I cant remember his face at all. Kinda like


    Like we had a dream?


    Yeah, exactly! You know how you can remember what you dreamed right when you wake up but then forget it as time goes on? Kinda feels like that.


    Same here. Its really fascinating.


    Cognitive Dissonance had yed its role well, it seemed. If there werent any yers here with the intuition to prate my Cognitive Dissonance, no one would remember me. They would all just be left with a fuzzy memory, a bare recollection of a yer who blocked the door and gave them a warning.


    * * *


    * * *


    The notices continued for me.


    [Scenario Outline acquired as per the Arbitrators rights.]


    [The Arbitrators rights willst for as long as the current field exists.]


    [The Scenario Outline will automatically expire when the current field expires.]


    [Scenario Outline]<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-weight: bold;">


    <strong>Korean server scenario #311.</strong></li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-weight: bold;">


    <strong>Lives are required for the opening of the Gran Seoul Dungeon.</strong></li></ol><ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-weight: bold; margin-left: 36pt;">


    <strong>31,100 yer deaths.</strong></li></ul><ol start="3" data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-weight: bold;">


    <strong>Scenario progression: [Survive for 24 hours] or [At least 31,100 humans die]</strong></li></ol>


    All that was bolded. The condition to open the Gran Seoul Dungeon seemed to be the death of at least 31,100 people within 24 hours.


    It feels like someone made a rough schema of the scenario.


    Outline.


    A general description or n.


    The scenario definitely felt like a general description. Underneath the bold text were words in italics.<ol start="4" data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-style: italic;">


    <em>In the case of a variable rted to justice, total scenario revision.</em></li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-style: italic;">


    <em>Revised field monster spawns.</em></li></ol><ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-style: italic; margin-left: 36pt;">


    <em>City Fox: 11</em></li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-style: italic; margin-left: 36pt;">


    <em>City Wolf: 31</em></li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-style: italic; margin-left: 36pt;">


    <em>Lycanthrope: 22</em></li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-style: italic; margin-left: 36pt;">


    <em>Orc: 17</em></li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-style: italic; margin-left: 36pt;">


    <em>(Enhanced) Goblin Soldier: 1 (D-Tower 1st Floor)</em></li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-style: italic; margin-left: 36pt;">


    <em>Orc Warrior: 21 (D-Tower 2nd Floor)</em></li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-style: italic; margin-left: 36pt;">


    <em>Troll: 5 (D-Tower 2nd Floor)</em></li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-style: italic; margin-left: 36pt;">


    <em>Troll Soldier: 3 (D-Tower 2nd Floor)</em></li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-style: italic; margin-left: 36pt;">


    <em>Orc Archer: 5 (D-Tower 2nd Floor)</em></li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-style: italic; margin-left: 36pt;">


    <em>Fanged Mole: random spawn (D-Tower Underground 1st Floor)</em></li></ul><ol start="6" data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-style: italic;">


    <em>Dungeonization of the Gwanghwamun D-Tower.</em></li></ol><ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-style: italic; margin-left: 36pt;">


    <em>1st Floor: (Enhanced) Goblin Soldier  same as the Tutorial Dungeon</em></li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-style: italic; margin-left: 36pt;">


    <em>2nd Floor: Hidden Piece  Find the Hidden Pathway!</em></li></ul>


    <em>Conditions to find the hidden pathway:</em><ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-style: italic; margin-left: 72pt;">


    <em>Once found, mana crystal is used on the esctor</em></li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-style: italic; margin-left: 72pt;">


    <em>Mana crystal: acquired upon destroying the green sedan on the Underground 1st Floor</em></li></ol><ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-style: italic;">


    <em>Clear Crystal will be generated upon hunting all monsters on the 2nd Floor. Destroying the Clear Crystal will end the entire scenario.</em></li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt; font-style: italic;">


    <em>3rd floor: hidden monster: ck Troll spawn</em></li></ul>


    I reeled back in shock.


    What the hell?


    I practiced justice using my Arbitrator rights and got <em>this. </em>For an outline, there was quite a lot of detail.


    A ck Troll will show up?


    A tremor shook through my body. My heart began to thud.


    Thats a Grade 4 Exotic.


    Later, people would start calling valuable and rare monsters Exotics. Exotics were made up of a total of five grades. Any Exotic was worth tens of thousands of dors just for the corpse. Even the corpse of the lowest Grade 5 and rtively frequently spawning Leon was sold for $70,000.


    But the ck Troll wasnt just a Grade 5, but a Grade <em>4.</em>


    A Grade 4 Exotic. The ck Troll.


    ck Trolls had a very high chance of dropping an item called Regeneration Serum. Of the three to four ck Trolls found worldwide every month, one to two of them would drop a Regeneration Serum.


    It wasnt in my ns, but even so, that was a monster I absolutely had to kill.


    I can see where it is and what Im supposed to do.


    The only problem was that I was an Observer and couldnt get the Regeneration Serum if I hunted the troll myself. That meant I would have to hunt it with the yers here.


    That would be a bit hard


    The overall level of the yers here was simply too low. Someone would inevitably die in the process of trying to get the Regeneration Serum. I missed my Giantgod party members.


    Oh, but wait.


    I recalled one of the notices that had streamed past earlier.[The Arbitrators rights willst for as long as the current field exists.]


    I was currently the Arbitrator. A sense of vigor was coursing through my veins like I had be a supreme being. Of course, I wasnt saying I was really a supreme being, but it definitely felt like it.


    Maybe this sort of thing will work?


    I thought of it in my head. If I temporarily had the rights of an Arbitrator within this field and thus held the true power to correct the workaround in effect within this field[The Arbitrators rights are currently intact.]


    Right now, I was an Arbitrator who could not condone this workaround and injustice. I had the power to rectify, or rather, the <em>duty </em>to rectify without fail. I focused on that. I wasnt all that aware of it, but I was probably meditating while standing up again.


    [The System acknowledges the Arbitrators duty.]


    [The Arbitrators role will temporarily assume the highest priority setting.]


    [Based on the highest priority setting, the restriction conditions of the Observer ss will be temporarily disabled.]


    [The Arbitrators role is valid only while the current field exists.]


    I just attempted it with a cant hurt to try attitude because I thought it <em>might</em> be possible, but it really worked.


    What was this feeling? This familiar, yet unfamiliar feeling of just trying something and seeding in one shot?


    Whatever, its good for me that it worked.


    The restriction conditions of the Observer ss disappeared. At least within this field, I wasnt an Observer, but an Arbitrator. And from this situation, I becamepletely sure of one fact.


    The penalties of the Observer ss arent permanent.


    They werent an absolute that could not be changed no matter what you did and tried. The penalty was bound to go away one day, maybe once I reached level 50 and had my second advancement or made a second contract with a new Guardian. Or when something happened afterwards.


    Whatever it is I can get rid of this penalty.


    When that happened, I would be able to stand tall and proud not as an observing sovereign, but as an <em>acting </em>sovereign. My heart continued to tremble.


    I can be stronger.


    That thought echoed in my brain. I could be truly strong. When I first came back to the past, my goal was just to live a happy and harmonious life with my family, to be the smith of my own life, but now, a slightly different goal seemed to have taken root in my heart.


    Getting stronger is enjoyable.


    It was like I simply came to enjoy ying more. In this respect, I did indeed seem to have exceptional talent, though I would only be sure once I got past level 40.


    In any case, I walked forward.[Cognitive Dissonance is no longer in effect.]


    The duration of Cognitive Dissonance ended. I walked past the crowd towards the D-Tower.


    Hey, the buildings supposed to be dangerous.


    Dude, think about it. With all the yers here, it might actually be safer here than inside!


    Hey!


    A few people tried to stop me, but I didnt respond. I just made my way to the doors.[Enter the D-Tower?]


    I immediately went inside.[Entering the D-Tower 1st Floor.]


    The field changed, and I arrived on the 1st floor. I saw a few bodiesthey were the people who had rashly gone inside without heeding my warning. It was unfortunate, but there wasnt anything I could do for them. There didnt seem to be any survivors in the immediate vicinity. I walked forward.


    Curiously, there was something that sparked my interest.


    Oh ho.

 Chapter 171

    Chapter 171


    I had the feeling that this ce was very familiar to me. That was because the current D-Tower 1st floor looked the same as the 1st floor when it was the Tutorial Dungeon. In addition, I discovered a certain fact.


    The ATM machine has been punched through.


    That was the strategy I had used in the past. There was a hole in the ATM machine, as if someone knew the same strategy and followed it, be it a coincidence or something they came up with on their own.


    Whats important is that there are traces of the (Enhanced) Goblin Soldier having been here, but no (Enhanced) Goblin Soldier.


    That meant


    Someone hunted the (Enhanced) Goblin Soldier.


    The Scenario Outline had also been modified.


    <em>(Enhanced) Goblin Soldier: 1 (D-Tower 1st Floor)</em>


    And I didnt feel any living humans on the 1st floor. So someone had hunted the (Enhanced) Goblin Soldier without losing their life and gone up to the 2nd floor.


    But I have to go find the mana crystal on the underground 1st floor.


    A sense of urgency bubbled within me.


    The 3rd floor is a hidden field.


    Even if the 3rd floor wasnt cleared, clearing just the 2nd floor would end this scenario.


    Clear Crystal will be generated upon hunting all monsters on the 2nd Floor. Destroying the Clear Crystal will end the entire scenario.


    That cant happen.


    I had to hurry. Thankfully, there were Trolls on the 2nd floor, and among them were Troll Soldiers whose endurance was second to none in the beginner period.


    Lets hurry and go up.


    I moved to the esctor.


    [Esctor Going to the 2nd Floor]


    An esctor going to the Main Field of D-Tower, the 2nd Floor. Can transport fifteen people at once.


    Cooldown: 8 minutes


    If this ce had the same settings as the Tutorial Dungeon, the original cooldown should have been twenty minutes.


    12 minutes have psed since it was used.


    Before I blocked the way to the D-Tower front doors, someone had already gone inside. After hunting the (Enhanced) Goblin Soldier, they went up to the 2nd floor about twelve minutes ago.


    I cant go up to the 2nd floor.


    Then that left finding the mana crystal on the underground 1st floor within eight minutes. It was still efficient, at least.


    I have to find the way down to the underground 1st floor.


    Perhaps because of my urgency, I couldnt see it immediately. There was probably a condition to activate it. My thoughts once again flickered to the personor peoplewho were up on the 2nd floor right now.


    Looking at the state of the 1st floor


    The corpses strewn about. The punctured ATM machine. A body part of a monster I guessed was a Troll. The smell of a fierce battle still lingering in the air. The atmosphere. The time I spent using Cognitive Dissonance outside.


    All of that was information for me, an Observer.


    I dont think it took very long for them to hunt the (Enhanced) Goblin Soldier.


    They did it quickly, and that party probably didnt take much damage to speak of, either. Then, they moved on confidently to the 2nd floor.


    Its possible to infer who it was if they were that skilled.


    I cast my eyes around again.[Observing with Observers Eye.]


    My gaze stopped at the punctured ATM machine.


    Theres a hole.


    The hole was created by the (Enhanced) Goblin Soldiers spear. It threw the spear, the spear rotated, and the people avoided that spear with the help of the ATM machine. Over there was the bathroom.


    That moment, I could feel it.


    This is!


    There was the slightest sense of budding enlightenment, the same sensation Id felt when fighting Kim Taechun. Simr in essence to when I felt the ominous future with Precognitive Eye.


    Im on the verge of seeing it.


    It might be because this situation was one that I had already experienced. I, too, had fought the (Enhanced) Goblin Soldier, and I knew about the hunting method the unknown party used. Whatever the reason, I was able to read what had happened a few minutes ago.


    Focus.


    I focused a little more. The ATM machine. That was the key point. Whatever it had to show me was dancing in and out of my reach.


    I can see it!


    I could see it.


    Is this the opposite of Future Sight?


    Future Sight could see the future. But what I just did wasnt Future Sight. I glimpsed into the past. It felt like a video was ying back in my head.


    Ah.


    The battle they fought with a formation looked very familiar.


    There are many of them.


    At the very least, it wasnt just a few people. I felt like I could see many yers who had worked together for a long time.


    They set up a circr formation.


    A circr formation.


    Many yers fitted in silver armor.


    And


    The silhouette of a girl.


    That was all for the image I glimpsedseveral men wearing silver armor and a girl holding a wand.


    The Steel Bulwark Kim Donghyun and Steel Mage Kim Ahyun brother and sister duo.


    The elite guild Wings led by the Steel Bulwark Kim Donghyun and supported by the Steel Mage Kim Ahyun. I, an Observer, thought of the Wings guild.


    They were already active at this time?


    Wings was one of the major guilds in Gyeonggi Province. They were called the Guardians of Gyeonggido, and they made a significant contribution in blocking the 1st Monster Wave Scenario that began in Seoul and moved to Hanam in Gyeonggi Province.


    A guild made up of twelve knights and one magician.


    The guild was known to have avoided expanding into Seoul because they disliked theplicated politics and elbowing for privileges in the city.


    When ites to fighting in a formation, theyre a cut above Taeguk Shield. They arent super strong as individuals, but their defense-oriented ying is built on a foundation of outstanding and sturdy teamwork.


    That was the kind of guild Wings was, at least ording to the information I knew.


    Thats a relief.


    It was a good thing. They were cautious yers; their ystyle wasnt super aggressive. They moved in formation like a sturdy shield, slowly strangling the enemys windpipe. As a result, their raids tended to take a rtively long time.


    I cant think of any way to get down to the underground 1st floor.


    If it waspletely the same as the Tutorial Field, I would be able to figure it out right away, but unfortunately, that wasnt the case.


    And I dont know what the condition is, either.


    Even my intuition couldnt figure anything out. It was either an extremely hard hidden piece to find, or there really was no path down there.


    I couldnt rule out that possibility. And if there was no path?


    I have to make a path.


    I couldnt go down there. But I had a very skilled pet with me.


    [Phantom Thief Squirrel]


    Name: Darongi


    Age: 7


    Level: ?


    Innate ability: [Pickup] [Pathfinding] [Gnawing] [Theft] [Subspace] [Big Belly] [Hole Digging] [Stealth] [Master Selection]


    State: Joyful / Full / Lazy


    Disposition: Confident / Insatiable / Intimate


    Summary: Gluttonous Theft Genius<ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    The disposition/state/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li data-mce-style=": 12pt;">


    Because Eye of Perception''s proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    Even though I had reached level 38, I still couldnt see the level of my amazing pet.


    Darong, there should be a mana crystal on the underground 1st floor. Find it.


    [;;;] marks appeared over Darongis head.


    No, you can do it.


    [;;;] [;;;] [;;;]


    It was shown three times. This was a first.


    Ah. You think itll be that hard? Even with your remarkable skills?


    Darongi nodded.


    Im disappointed. And here I was, nning on giving you soy sauce fried chicken with pickled radishes to boot.


    [!!!] popped up over Darongis head. The pickled radishes that came with fried chicken was precisely the food Darongi was obsessed with these days. Considering how he savored each and every little nibble of pickled radish, the food seemed to suit his tastes to a T.


    Cant be helped. Well have to give up on soy sauce fried chicken and pickled radishes.


    Darongi leapt off my shoulder.


    What? You can do it after all?


    Darongi frantically nodded.


    See? You <em>can </em>do it. If you bring me the mana crystal, Ill give you two soy sauce chickens and two boxes of pickled radish.


    Darongi began to dig.


    * * *


    * * *


    The Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, Song Kiyeol, spoke to the man sitting on the opposite side of the table.


    As we have clearly stated, the Guardian Tower is not a deleterious object, and it will absolutely not decrease the value of the DMC Riverview Xi.


    Yes, yes. Youve said the same thing at least five times.


    Sitting next to the man were four other men and one woman. They had red bands wrapped around their heads.


    We have announced this fact several times, said Song Kiyeol. This is a contract rted to it. Please read and sign it.


    The contract was three pages total. It could be summarized concisely into two points:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    If the residents of the DMC Riverview Xi so desire, Sungshin will purchase their property for an additional $100,000 above market price.</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    However, Sungshin has announced multiple times that the Guardian Tower is not a deleterious object.</li></ol>


    Han Myungsoo, who had been appointed chairman of the Urgent Resident Emergency Countermeasure Committee, was happy.


    This is an adequate resolution to our strike.


    It says Sungshin will add $100,000 to market price, and theyll even pay for the moving fees.


    And what if the market price drops?


    We have set the market price as the highest it has been per square meter.


    Themittee achieved the marvelous feat of setting the market price of the mostmon size of apartment, 110 square meters, to a staggering $1.5 million, plus an extra $100k.


    But would Sungshin have done this without any thought at all? Theyre a conglomerate that dislikes incurring losses.


    Thats an issue we have to think about, yes.


    Its because Sungshin has no choice but to pay attention to their image.


    Might it be that they have put the focus on improving their image using this situation?


    The people were very divided. Some were of the opinion that they should quickly sell their homes and find new ones, while others believed there was a reason Sungshin would go so far and that they should wait and see.


    It was approximately a 6:4 split, therger group believing they should wait and see, and the smaller group wanting to sell and leave. Sungshin said they would respect all opinions.


    Sungshin will gain a lot from this as well. Its an era where image is king, after all.


    I heard Sungshin is gaining millions of dors from the publicity theyre getting from this issue. Were actually on the losing end, if you think about it.


    Most of the people on the sell and leave side were also people who had actively demandedpensation from So Yoohun. They were the most enthusiastic in calling for the eyesore to be taken down, in advocating for the destruction of the tower that had attracted cmities like the Fire Giants. People who shouted that if it couldnt be destroyed, they should bepensated with a truckload of money. The most vocal people epted Sungshins proposal.


    After the contract was signed and done, the CEO of Sungshin, Song Kiyoung, had tea with Song Kiyeol.


    TN: Song Kiyoungs title has been changed from President to CEO.


    Doing this means youre prepared to pay a huge expense. What are you thinking?


    I already know the true worth of the Guardian Tower.


    Song Kiyeol was truly amused.


    Kiyeol has changed.


    He wasnt the same grandson who quailed in front of him. CEO Song was extremely happy about that.


    The true worth?


    Yes.


    He was happy on the inside, but he didnt show it.


    Fine. Lets say youve recognized its true worth. He said sternly, And lets say the areas prices skyrocket because of the Guardian Towers worth. What will you do afterwards? Do you want to advertise that Sungshin has reaped a profit from real estate spection when public sentiment is already rocky as is?


    No, sir. Kiyeol shook his head. He was respectful, but firm. His eyes glowed with confidence. As the Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, I have decided to create a 1st generation yer town bywful and humanitarian means. And it happens to be close to the yers Association as well.


    A yer town?


    The idea is to have a ready force that can quickly react to emergency crises. As you saw with the Fire Giants Even stronger monsters will appear in the future. We need people who can create parties on the spot and go out to hunt. If we can gather outstanding yers in one ce, we will be able to react far more strategically in a crisis.


    The goal was not real estate spection, but to create a yer town, a concept of a force prepared for emergency situations. CEO Song smiled inwardly.


    How fun.


    Judging from Kiyeols palpable confidence, that Guardian Tower was likely extremely valuable. The short-sighted people who lunged for a pittance of $100k without recognizing that value were pitiful.


    Kiyeol changed after meeting Kim Hyukjin.


    As time went on, his curiosity towards the person named Kim Hyukjin grew. CEO Song concealed his inner thoughts and spoke again.


    Excessive confidence breeds failure. There are times when bold and swift decision-making is necessary, but the process cannot be just as bold and swift. Understand?


    I will bear that in mind.


    He couldnt wait to see. Was the Guardian Tower truly an eyesore that attracted monsters like Fire Giants, or was it really a tower that protected, as its name suggested?


    Its probably a tower that protects.


    He couldnt suppress the smile that escaped him at the thought of the worlds furor over Guardian Towers in the near future.


    It could be


    That Kiyeol was more outstanding than Junghye.

 Chapter 173

    Chapter 173


    If you were to pick the most famous yers in Korea, it would be the 8 Heroes, the yers who achieved legendary feats while shing against the Demon King Army.


    But there were definitely yers who werent heroes, but known to be just as strong or possibly even stronger.


    yers who didnt sacrifice themselves for the public or the greater good.


    The yer who could be called the apex of them, Divine Archer Hyun Junghwa, was sponsored by the Night of Shooting Stars.[The Night of Shooting Stars wishes to sponsor you.]


    There was something that set the Night of Shooting Stars slightly apart from other Guardians.


    A Stage 2 Guardian.


    There wasnt an exact line between Stage 1 and Stage 2 Guardians. What people called Stage 1 Guardians were the beings that had sponsored and watched yers from the very beginning. The Stage 2 Guardians were the ones that descended on the scene likeets afterwards,vishing more wholehearted and lively sponsorship than before.


    To put it coarsely


    If the Stage 1 Guardians were likened to the established gentry that had possessed their wealth for a long time, the Stage 2 Guardians could be said to be nouveau riche who obtained their wealth overnight.


    Nouveau riche wasnt meant in a bad way here. It was actually extremely good for the yers.


    Those who suddenly earn their wealth are bound to use their money freely and unstintingly.


    In other words, the Stage 2 Guardians were Guardians who suddenly appeared once the intermediate period was well underway and heaped full and enthusiastic sponsorship on a few lucky yers. Of course, there were Guardians among them who disappeared as suddenly as they hade. There were also Guardians who demanded as much as they sponsoredin other words, picky Guardians.


    In that respect, the [Night of Shooting Stars]... is like winning the lottery for a yer.


    He wasnt very hard to please, heaped nouveau riche-level sponsorship, and enjoyed ying in itself. He didnt coerce anything from the yer, but derived great enjoyment from raising their contracted yer to the limits.


    He only sends messages only to a select few who have excellent talent.


    In addition


    In the end, there were only two people worldwide who passed the Night of Shooting Stars final selection.


    One was the representative of Koreas archers, the top-ss yer Hyun Junghwa.


    The other was the representative of Americas archers, the top-ss yer Mark.


    Both of them possessed peerless talent for archery and were famous for shooting up in the ranks faster than anyone. Naturally, that incredible speed of growth was actively orchestrated by the Night of Shooting Stars.


    I have to grab him.


    Stage 1 Guardians were on the stingy side when it came to sponsorships. No matter how exceptionally you yed, they would give maybe 300 or 500 Coins max. They did asionally give out good scenario quests, but in any case, it was like interningpared to what the Night of Shooting Stars had to offer.


    Senia. Please.


    I hoped she would butter up the Night of Shooting Stars a little. With a fish this big in her stream, it would be really great if she would show him a proper reaction for once.


    No.


    I decided not to expect too much from Senia. Expecting something from her was like relying on luck, and luck wasnt something I could do anything about.


    Not with luck, but with skill.


    The Night of Shooting Stars valued skill. He was a Guardian who felt enjoyment from a yers growth. Which meant, what I had to do was show him Night of the Shooting Stars-worthy archer talent.


    For now, I was given an initial quest.[You have been given the quest Qualifications of an Outstanding Bowman.]


    This was a quest granted by none other than the <em>Night of Shooting Stars</em>. I checked it immediately.


    [Qualifications of an Outstanding Bowman]


    The Night of Shooting Stars wants to determine your qualifications as a bowman. Disy excellent archery. Quest clear or failure will be decided independently by the Night of Shooting Stars.


    To be honest, these kinds of quests werent good. They didnt have a concrete goal. It was the kind of quest where you could work your ass off to show something, and the Guardian could just say Yeah no, this aint it, I dont like it and you failed the quest. Superficial and small-minded Guardians pulled such stunts often, and yers called it dine-and-dash.


    But the other party is the Night of Shooting Stars.


    He was definitely credible. He could be trusted. The Night of Shooting Stars was an extremely generous Guardian, and as long as what you had to show matched his tastes, he would shower you with bona-fide rewards that matched your performance point for point. The proof of that was below:Reward: Tome of the Divine Archer Physique


    A Tome of the Divine Archer Physique, of all things, was the reward.


    The scale of the reward


    I had really underestimated the scale of the Stage 2 nouveau riche Guardians, considering a freaking Tome of the Divine Archer Physique was being directly awarded by a Guardian.


    Its half a notch above the Tome of the Divine Fire Physique.


    Not in ability, but in scarcity.


    Tome of the Divine Fire Physique.


    Tome of the Divine Wind Physique.


    Tome of the Divine Water Physique.


    And so on. There were maybe ten physique tomes of each element discovered worldwide, at most. Of course, they were obtained by the strongest yers, aka the Rankers, of each element.


    But this Tome of the Divine Archer Physique was a little different in nature.


    An artifact rted not to an element, but a ss.


    It was an item that maximized ones dormant potential for a ss, and rarer than an element physique tome. That, of course, made it extremely valuable.


    Ill have to change my ns a little.


    I was nning on hunting the ck Troll my way, but I would need to tweak the process a little. A big fish had graced our pond, and one so big he could hardly bepared to others. A generous Guardian who doled out sponsorships to yers by the bucket.


    I have to grab him, whatever it takes.


    It just so happened that good prey was waiting upstairs. A Grade 4 Exotic ck Troll.


    Itll be the optimal monster to show the Night of Shooting Stars.


    I would show my precious VIP how an archer who had picked up a bow for the first timeI decided to act as an archer for nowwould hunt a ck Troll.


    * * *


    * * *


    Song Junghye was furious.


    Kim Hyukjin


    As a 3rd generation daughter of a chaebol family, she had lived the high life. But for some reason, nothing seemed to go her way whenever Kim Hyukjin was involved.


    Oppa has changed ever since he met that bastard, too.


    That was both good and bad. She liked that her brother had risen to suit the Sungshin sessor mantle more, but she didnt like that he was bing a hopeless dreamer.


    Oppa is too weak, anyway. Hes an idealist.


    In the end, Sungshin belonged to her. To that end, she had to bring down Taeguk Shield and break her brother.


    My n to use the Fire Giants also went up in smoke.


    Shed had a n. She was in the middle of silently preparing to use 30,000 people as sacrifices when suddenly, Kim Hyukjin and her brother appeared out of nowhere and ruined everything.


    Bring down Taeguk Shield, and


    What method could raise the status of the guild Song Junghye had established, the Blue Spearhead? And how could she obtain the Red Eyes?


    Her thoughts twisted and turned. Just then, she heard a knock. It was the explorer she had met in the past, Jackson.


    I havee bearing a piece of good news. Well, its a trade, so to speak, Jackson said.


    What kind of information?


    Jackson pointed to a part of his phone screen.


    This ce. Do you know it?


    It was marked as the Gran Seoul.


    I do. Its a building near the D-Tower.


    A dungeon should have formed here.


    How do you know that?


    My ss can tell. Im an Exploring Baptist, after all.


    Song Junghye nodded. The reason he knew wasnt important. The only thing that mattered was that a dungeon would appear there.


    By my guess, it will be an extremely important dungeon. A dungeon that everyone <em>must </em>clear, no matter what, without fail, and by all means.


    Youre saying that


    That the early bird gets the worm.


    Song Junghye looked Jackson right in the eye. He didnt seem to be lying.


    The groundwork to open the Gran Seoul Dungeon is currently underway.


    I know. The field has been isted.


    Like with the Tutorial Field, it was impossible to go inside. No one on the outside knew what scenario or quest was happening inside.


    The fun thing is that yer Kim Hyukjin is inside.


    Song Junghyes brow twitched. Jackson quickly continued.


    Knowing him, he will probably breeze through the scenario there ande out.


    He left the possibility that Kim Hyukjin might have grown once again unsaid. He concentrated solely on rying the information.


    Once the scenario is cleared, the Gran Seoul Dungeon will open.


    Jackson figured that was enough for Song Junghye to get the point, and she caught on.


    Very well. Ill trust your information.


    If you examine the records in the yers Associations database, you will find that there are people with the ability necessary toy im on gate and dungeon entrances.


    After hearing that much, Song Junghye closed her eyes for a moment as if thinking about something. A very brief momentter, she asked, What do you want from me, Jackson?


    Jackson responded with a merry smile.


    I need the head of yer Kim Hyukjin.


    Whether he was serious or joking, it was impossible to tell.


    * * *


    The Grade 4 Exotic ck Troll was a monster endowed with immense physical strength and massive regeneration abilities. However, it was also a monster with a very fatal weakness.


    Ennds famous guild, Imperialism, once shared this weakness of the ck Troll.


    <em>The ck Troll is a troll with ck skin. Notably, there are ck spots on that ck skin.</em>


    ck spots on top of ck skin. They couldnt be seen by normal means. It was almost impossible to distinguish them with the naked eye.


    <em>Those spots can be linked into a single line. If you seed in making that line with attacks, the ck Troll will lose its regen ability.</em>


    Basically, you had to attack the spots all over the trolls body in a set order, spot by spot. The strategy required not just random hacking and shing, but a careful and measured approach.


    I was going to use my quick movements and my special skill, sh Step, as well as Isabels Sword of Insight to slowly bring the troll down. Because as long as I could get near somehow, Sword of Insight would carve a path.


    I can afford to take a hit or two.


    It was a fact that a ck Troll felt like nothing after facing the Fire Giants. Though of course, it was still a monster with an average level of 40, so it couldnt be underestimated.


    But


    But my ns changed. The Night of Shooting Stars, of all Guardians, was watching. I had to satisfy them. That was my first priority right now.


    Another notice came in as if to echo my conviction.[The Night of Shooting Stars is very expectant.]


    I was determined to meet those expectations in full.


    But somethings missing right now.


    I was just a little short of being able to fulfill those expectations, so I opened my mouth. As always, it was high risk, high return. How you controlled the risk you were to undertake in order to gain that return was purely up to the individual. I would control the risk.


    Because this stage was a stage being built by my hands.


    In order to draw a more perfect picture than before, I spoke.

 Chapter 174

    Chapter 174


    Making a direct deal with a Guardian was always dangerous. If you asked a Guardian for something, you could be setting yourself up to have no choice but toply with a corresponding demand of theirs. That was the risk I faced. But right now, the situation was a little different.


    This request isnt being made because I need it.


    Granted, if you were to look at it technically, it <em>was </em>something I was requesting because I needed it. But the job of a yer was to artfully conceal that, to package it like it was a very reasonable and worthwhile deal in the [Night of Shooting Star]s eyes.


    The Night of Shooting Stars said he would like to see the qualifications of an outstanding bowman from me.


    <em>They</em> needed it, not me. All I had to do was show them that I was doing my best to fulfill that need.


    However, Ick a weapon capable of reflecting my qualifications andpetencies.


    The only bow I had right now was the crude bow dropped by an Orc Archer. Even if I were to go into the Item Shop right now and buy one, I wouldnt be able to get that great of a bow.


    Please give me the opportunity to show what the Night of Shooting Stars wants to see.


    The Night of Shooting Stars wanted me to show my qualifications. To that end, he possessed a generous hand that did not skimp on investment.


    [The Night of Shooting Stars sympathizes with your words.]


    [The Merchant of Venice is watching the situation with interest.]


    If I am unable to prove my own worth, I am prepared to ept whatever consequences necessary, I said firmly.


    How would the [Night of Shooting Stars], our resident big investor and generous Guardian, respond? Because I had made such a big deration, the Night of Shooting Stars would surely show me even greater magnanimity.


    [The Night of Shooting Stars temporarily lends the ckfire Bow.]


    [The ckfire Bow will be lent out for the duration of yer Kim Hyukjins quest.]


    [The fee for borrowing the ckfire Bow is sufficient qualifications as a bowman.]


    [If yer Kim Hyukjin fails to prove sufficient qualifications as a bowman, he will incur a penalty.]


    I immediately read the ckfire Bows description.


    [ckfire Bow]


    Of the types of mes, there is redfire, which is consumed by bluefire, which is in turn consumed by ckfire. The ckfire Bow bears the authority of ckfire. It can only be wielded by someone who has the highest grade of affinity for the fire attribute in addition to an innate talent for the archer ss.


    *The ckfire Bow will decide for itself whether someone is qualified to wield it.


    The test began even before I started fighting the ck Troll.


    Ive never heard of the ckfire Bow.


    Interestingly, its grade was not indicated. That meant this bow was no ordinary item.


    A fixed item a Guardian made on the spot for a quest.


    In other words, it was like a quest prop. I could clearly see the words.*The ckfire Bow will decide for itself whether someone is qualified to wield it.


    That was telling me the first step was to try earning the permission of this bow that imbued a Guardians authority, the ckfire Bow.


    Lets see here.


    I raised the bow. My arm tingled. It felt as if heat were radiating from the bow and threatening to swallow me and my body alive.


    This feeling


    I was sure of it.


    This energy is of a higher grade than the fire ki I possess.


    There was no doubt about that. This energy was fundamentally more outstanding than mine.


    However


    I had already experienced the flow and smell of fire. I came into contact with mes of a higher grade than the ones inside me while fighting the Fire Giants, and from that experience, I learned the movement, flow, and nature of mes of a higher grade.


    Like this.


    I controlled the fire ki billowing from the bow with natural ease. This energy was not one that aimed to swallow me, but one that aimed to help me. I drew a concrete image in my mind of ck mes wrapping around me, and those mes bing a part of my strength.


    I raised the bow again. There was no real reason to. I just did it because I felt I had to.[Observing with Observers Eye.]


    This was the 2nd floor of the D-Tower. The knights of Wingswho werent yerswere fighting the Orc Warriors.


    The strongest of them.


    I focused on the strongest Orc Warrior. Everything else faded away like smoke, leaving just me and the Orc.


    An Orc Warrior swung its axe, striking one of the Wings guild members in the chest. That moment, I clearly saw an opening.


    I see it.


    Clear as day.


    Fire.


    My body moved naturally. My thoughts flowed naturally.


    Submit.[The ckfire Bow acknowledges yer Kim Hyukjin.]


    It was almost like I was someone who had trained with the bow many times.


    [The ckfire Bow responds to the wielders will.]


    [The ckfire Bows me ising alight.]


    This artifact required no arrows to be notched. An arrow of rippling ck me was formed.


    My target is the middle of the Orcs forehead.


    I released the bowstring. The result was very satisfying.


    [Orc Warrior has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    No items were dropped.


    Ive already tipped the battlefield in their favor.


    They would likely have no trouble surviving the 2nd floor. I felt one of the two real yers of the Wings guild, the young boy Kim Donghyun, stare at me, astonishment bare on his face.


    It was understandable. I also hadnt expected to be able to annihte an Orc Warrior with a single arrow. I was surprised, so that boy was probably even more surprised.


    Huh, that was easy.


    I learned the act of shooting a bow just like that. It was only one session, but it felt like I had gotten all the practice I needed. The ckfire Bow almost felt like a weapon I had been using for a long time; it felt all too familiar in my hand, kind of like when I threw a dagger for the first time.


    Here I go.


    An Orc Warrior was not enough to prove my qualifications as a bowman. Only something like a ck Troll, a Grade 4 Exotic, was a suitable foe for that.


    I activated the esctor with the mana crystal I got from Darongi.[Move to the D-Towers hidden field, the 3rd Floor?]


    I ported.


    * * *


    * * *


    On the D-Tower, 3rd floor, a fairlyrge clearing appeared. The floor was cement. Eerie red lights were burning nearby, casting their dim light on the surroundings.


    Its dark.


    It wasnt all that bright. A dark environment like this one was extremely favorable for the ck Troll, as the ck spots that were its weakness would be even harder to spot.


    [The hidden field, the 3rd Floor, has been unlocked.]


    [The hidden scenario of the 3rd Floor, Appearance of the Mutated Troll, has been triggered.]


    That moment, I could feel it.


    Those fires lighting up this ce.


    I would shoot them. I pulled the bowstring, firing seven arrows made of ckfire that precisely hit the seven mes.[The condition to spawn the mutated Troll has been fulfilled.]


    This feeling was truly fascinating. I didnt know the strategy for this floorit wasnt a field that had ever been publicized. I wouldnt have been able toe here had I not acquired the scenario outline.


    But I can see the path.


    What I needed to do was clear to me, as though someone had inserted it into my head. It was like I knew as soon as I saw it. But this feeling wasnt unfamiliar to me. It was a bit embarrassing for me to say, but I suspected this was the feeling of being a genius, something like reading the textbook once and scoring a perfect 100% on the exam.


    The seven mes began to change color, going from red to ck. The field definitely became darker, but I could see much better than before. I guessed that was because I had been chosen, though temporarily, as the master of the ckfire Bow.[The mutated Troll, the ck Troll, is being spawned.]


    The monster that would serve as a testament to my value was spawned.[The boss monster ck Troll deres a boss monster zone.]


    <em>Kuoooo!</em>


    The ck Troll appeared in its entirety. ck skin, red saliva dripping from its mouth, overwhelming muscles that made the massive Yoohyun look like a child.


    I see them.


    They were there, between those bulging muscles.


    The spots.


    With thebined effect of the now-ck fires and the observation power of my Observers Eye, I could see them.


    Kind of looks like the Big Dipper.


    Overall, the spots were arranged like the Big Dipper. However, there were a lot more points than in the constetion.


    Exactly 22.


    The ck Trolls overall appearance was imprinted in my head like a picture, a picture where the ck spots on the monsters body were erged.


    <em>Thud! Thud! Thud! Thud!</em>


    The ck Troll walked forward, approaching me.


    It was going to attack. The Troll picked up something from the ground, even though there was definitely nothing there.


    A boulder.


    A boulder automatically formed out of nothingness.


    Its also skilled at long-range attacks.


    The ck Troll hurled the boulder at me, the projective flying towards me far faster than the arrows of the Orc Archers. However


    I can see the trajectory.


    Even before the ck Troll hurled the boulder, I had already seen its trajectory.[The power of Future Sight is active.]


    Future Sight made that possible. I was safe even before I dodged.


    I can definitely overwhelm it.


    The ck Troll was certainly a strong creature, but even so, it was like a childpared to a Fire Giant.


    I fired my bow.


    Maintain a good distance.


    I had an overwhelming upper hand in a ranged fight. I was faster, my eyes sharper, and my ability to judge the situation was far superior.


    That spot


    I aimed precisely for it.


    Ill shoot it.


    And I fired. The ckfire arrow struck it, dead center.


    <em>Kuooooo!</em>


    The ck Troll screamed. Lodged in the ck spot, the arrow burned ck. Something that shouldnt have been possible considering the incredible regeneration power of the ck Troll happenedinstead of disappearing, the arrow continued to burn, dealing continuous damage.


    Another one.


    I immediately followed up with another arrow.


    <em>Twang!</em>


    I urately hit another ck spot.


    <em>Twang!</em>


    And another one.


    The Troll rushed at me in a panic. I didnt allow it toe closer.


    I will show my audience aplete thrashing.


    Time was on my side. I struck spot after spot.


    If I connect the 22 spots in a line in order


    Thisst arrow would destroy it. I needed 21 arrows to set 21 spots aze.


    Last one.


    I set my sights on thest spot. Once the spot was hit, the ck Troll wouldpletely lose its regen ability and incredible physical strength, rendering it no different from a regr Troll.


    Focus.


    I focused on the final spot. The moment my concentration broke, my 100% bullseye hit rate would shatter.


    Wait.


    I had done the same thing a whopping 21 times. In the middle of the repetition, I saw a new path. Back when I first picked up a dagger and first held a bow, I could use them naturally, like a person who had learned how.


    But right now, it was different.


    21 times of training.


    If you counted my attack on the Orc Warrior on the 2nd floor, it was a total of 22 times. In all truth, it was far too little practice to learn one technique. That was how it should beit wasnt that much practice.


    But after practicing 21 times, I could see something new. By now, I knew what this feeling was. I couldnt miss this chance, this strange feeling of almost being able to grasp something.


    This feeling is


    It was the feeling of reaching the wall of new enlightenment. Such an opportunity was rare. If I sessfully grasped it, I could break down the wall and forge on into a new realm. I could tell.


    Lets put the kill on hold for a moment.


    The ck Troll charged towards me, but I read its movements and dodged it with ease.


    I will keep observing thest spot.


    I observed, and observed again. The final spot, the spot that would render the ck Troll powerless.


    A little time passed, maybe three minutes. After those three minutes passed, I was able to grasp a new clue.

 Chapter 175

    Chapter 175


    Now is not the right time to attack thatst spot.


    I had that feeling.


    I have to find it.


    There was another spot that came before thest one, a hidden spot.[Observing with Observers Eye.]


    It couldnt be seen with the naked eye. I sought the assistance of my innate ability, Eye of Perception, and took in all the information I was given.


    Theres another spot.


    It wasnt me who found it, but Eye of Perception and Observers Eye. It felt almost like I was zooming in on the ck Trolls knee.


    The folded skin of the knee.


    Hidden within that fold was a ck spot. I had to take that down first. That was the correct order.


    I have to go between the folds.


    With an arrow, that is.


    Can I do it? I asked myself.


    Today was my first time shooting a bow.


    I can do it.


    I drew the bowstring. The ck Troll charged at me.


    <em>Thud! Thud! Thud! Thud!</em>


    Arrows burning with ck mes sticking out of its body, the enraged ck Troll ran at me in a straight line.


    Now.


    I released the bowstring.


    The trajectory is perfect.


    The arrow whistled off, drawing a far more precise and clean line than I expected before plunging into the ck Trolls knee.


    <em>KUOOOO!</em>


    It swung its fists, but those fists didnt reach me.


    <em>Thud!</em>


    The ck Troll fell over with a great thump. It got up arduously, but its movements were very unnatural.


    Next is the belly button.


    The ck spot around the belly button was thest one. Referring to the image engraved in my mind, I aimed for the spot.


    Im not looking at the ck Trolls actual body.


    I was aiming for the spot inside the image in my head. That was the real final spot.


    It almost felt as if I were pressing a spot on the screen of my smartphone with my finger. I unconsciously drew the bowstring andnded a proper hit.


    [The ck Trolls regeneration ability has beenpletely extinguished.]


    [The ck Troll roars in rage.]


    <em>KUOOOOOO!</em>


    The roar was full of Troll Fear.[Eye of Perception detects a foreign energy.]


    I responded with another ability of mine, Mirror Sight, the power to reflect external forces applied on me.


    <em>Kuoo!</em>


    The ck Trolls roar died in its throat.


    Having lost its regeneration power, the ck Troll was not much different from a regr Troll. Granted, the Troll race as a whole had amazing recovery speed, but even so, a regr Troll was no longer a match for me.


    [ck Troll has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [Regeneration Serum acquired.]


    I wasnt able to focus on the notices. I sat down in the lotus position. After doing it a few times, I had some know-how. This was the best position for meditation.


    I have to visualize the situation earlier.


    And I had to do it more vividly than reality, make it more real than the experience itself. I had to discern how I had fought with the ck Troll, what kind of flow and fundamental threads had run through the battle. I went back to the very beginning of our fight and recalled the entire scene.


    I fought another vivid battle with the ck Troll in my head. No, the battle in my head was actually more difficult.


    Its hot.


    I felt sweat beading down my forehead. My back was wet as well. The real battle hadnt been that hard, but the image training in my head consumed more mental power.


    But


    That feeling I got when I struck the spot on the knee, that ce hidden within folds of skin, that was the feeling I needed to grasp.


    Again.


    I yed through the battle again.


    From the beginning.


    I read the flow again.


    Again.


    I attempted it another time.


    Again.


    I challenged it again and again, forgetting everything around me. I needed to focus. I didnt want to miss this chance that I had just barely grasped the tail of, a chance that would lead me to a new realm.


    Again.


    After going through several rounds of image training, I finally realized it.


    Observers Eye


    Observers Eye captured something that could not be seen. It found the hidden spot for the real clear. This flow, this feeling. A wave of refreshing coolness washed over me, my head clearing. It felt like something cold was wrapping over my steaming, hot back.


    I get it.


    I knew what this feeling was. It was like receiving a teaching from an amazing teacher. My vision seemed to clear, bing crisp and sharp.[Observers Eye has pioneered a new realm.]


    Me finding the ck Trolls hidden spot was something akin to a feeling.


    [Observers Eye has seeded in materializing a feeling.]


    [Congrattions.]


    [A new power, Eye of Investigation, has been developed.]


    That feeling descended on me as a new power.


    This sort of thing works too, huh.


    I concentrated in order to not lose that feeling, and ended up awakening a new ability.


    [Eye of Investigation]


    A power that searches for and finds obscured objects or phenomena. Through Eye of Investigation, one can find an opponents hidden weak points.


    How much time has passed?


    Senia showed herself.


    42 minutes have passed, she said, as if reading my mind.


    I was concentrating for 42 minutes?


    Yes.


    That was a little odd then.


    42 minutes is more than enough time for Wings to havepletely cleared the 2nd floor.


    It couldnt be that Wings failed to clear the 2nd floor, could it? I had hunted the hidden boss monster. As long as they could clear the 2nd floor scenario, this entire field would be cleared.


    I need to go down and see.


    But just then, Senia spoke. If you are doing so because you are concerned about the clear, I believe that it is unnecessary.


    Howe?


    The clear requisites have been fully met. However, the clear has been temporarily deferred.


    Temporarily deferred?


    The clear conditions were met, but the field wasnt cleared. It wasnt normal.


    The interference of a very strong Guardian.


    Could it be the [Night of Shooting Stars]? Was he still not pleased with my performance? That was surprisingI thought I did pretty well for someone who had picked up a bow for the first time today.


    Come to think of it


    I hadnt heard any messageseither of satisfaction or disappointmentfrom the Night of Shooting Stars.


    And they havent taken back the ckfire Bow yet.


    They hadnt taken back the weapon they had temporarily lent out to me.


    There must be someone I must fight, I said.


    There was an opponent even more capable of proving my qualifications than the ck Troll, and they were likely connected to arge number of Guardians.


    The clear conditions were met, but the clear was deferred, a fairly significant act of interference. It didnt seem like just one Guardian was involved.


    Someone ising up.


    Someone came up the esctor.[A new person is entering the 3rd Floor.]


    The man who came up to the 3rd floor was someone I recognized.


    * * *


    * * *


    The new arrivals were a sapling-shaped Intermediate Administrator with a few leaves on his head instead of hair and the Italian-looking man that Intermediate Administrator apanied.


    Hes tall and has a slender physique.


    The man was quite good-looking.


    A savage fighting spirit.


    I already knew the name of the man walking towards me. V. The man who would one day be the Fight King in the future I remembered.


    V was here at this point in time?


    Wasnt this the time when he should be tackling the Italian servers Rumanio Dungeon? I examined the man with Eye of Perception.


    [yer]


    Name: V


    Age: 25


    Level: 33


    ss: Fighter of the Dawn


    Guardian: White Hunter


    Innate ability: [Indomitable Fighting Spirit] [Last Thread of Consciousness]


    State: Having Fun / Excited / Boiling Fighting Spirit


    Disposition: Belligerent / Carnivorous / Simple


    Summary:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Battle Nut who Fears his Childhood Friend</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Single-celled Organism who Detests Complicated Things</li></ol><ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    The disposition/state/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    The man radiating fierce fighting spirit was chattering away, but I couldnt understand him. The tree Intermediate Administrator, Wilson, stepped forward.


    Kiddo. Youll have to indulge V and do a PVP with him.


    That moment, a PVP zone was dered. I could see what was happening.


    This is a scenario linked to the White Hunter, the Night of Shooting Stars, and maybe even the Conductor of Sound.


    The Fight King V was famous for being a belligerent person, someone who liked the strong and enjoyed fighting them. His summary said it all.Battle Nut who Fears his Childhood Friend


    I also knew who that childhood friend wasan Italian Master, Pedro. They had grown up together, or something like that. However he treated other people, V tended to be more obedient to Pedro. ording to the rumors, when they were kids, V grew up getting beaten up by Pedro, but whether that was true or not was never revealed.


    Hes not a bad person by nature.


    He just liked to fight. Some might disparage such a disposition as barbaric and perverted, but as a third party, I had liked Vs character.


    And he sometimes appeared on Master Pedros Youtube channel.


    I remembered thements blowing up everytime that happened. I had also asionally watched Pedros channel in the hopes of seeing V.


    When I was a third party, I liked that exciting personality, but now


    Now that I was involved, there wasnt much to like about Vs hotheadedness. It was clear as day that the Fight King would have pestered me for a fight even if he didnt have a scenario toplete, like a hunting dog straining at the leash, chomping at the bit for a fight.


    Wilson continued. I dont think theres really a need to trante. You and V just have to fight.


    The Fight King V pulled out an axe.


    ...However, V has asked me to do it, so Ill handle the trantion for a short while.


    It was amusing. At this point in time, Intermediate Administrators wielded omnipotent power. It was the norm for yers to be at the mercy of Intermediate Administrators. But their rtionship didnt look like that.


    Sure thing.


    I thought V would immediatelye at me, but to my surprise, the man wanted to talk.


    Youre Kim Hyukjin?


    And?


    Good. Ill need you to have a round with me. I wanna check how strong the White Hunters most cherished yer is.


    Most cherished yer?


    The White Hunters favorite wasnt V but me?


    I didnt know whether that was true or not. It could be that the White Hunter sent V such a message to agitate him.


    Whats your ss? Im a close-rangedbat ss that can use axes, daggers, spears, everything.


    To that, I answered, Archer.


    I would do my best to produce content that could satisfy the big investor, the Night of Shooting Stars. As an archer, that is.


    V asked another question.


    You good at fighting?


    For an archer, I was probably not half-bad.

 Chapter 176

    Chapter 176


    An archer, huh?


    V nced at the ck Trolls corpse.


    Did you kill it on your own?


    I nodded.


    Long-ranged DPSers generally have very low durability, but you managed to kill a variant Troll alone. Heughed with amusement. That has to mean youre just that fast, yeah?


    ...


    Let me see for myself just how fast you are, then.


    That moment, I felt this fighting spirit exude from the future Fight King.


    Hesing from the left.


    V was fast. His nimbleness was iparable to the ck Troll.


    I can see it.


    But my eyes were faster than even those swift movements. The future-seeing eye, Future Sight,pletely decoded Vs approach.


    Hell swing his axe here.


    <em>Whumpf!</em>


    The axe grazed my hair.


    Then, hell withdraw his weapon.


    V stowed his axe in his Inventory, item switching with practiced and skillful ease.


    And after putting down his foot hard


    V stepped in with force.


    Hell thrust his spear with his weight behind the attack.


    From start to finish, I read V like a book. I simply stood in ce.


    But the thrust is just a feint.


    The second attack that came on the heels of the feint was the real attack. In other words, there was no bloodthirst in the first attack.


    A stab thats fast, but powerless.


    And because there was no strength in it


    Something like this should be possible.


    I grabbed the spear shaft, turning the feint to my advantage. V was taken aback for a moment.


    Huh?


    I used the spears momentum to yank V forward, simultaneously putting out my foot.


    V tripped artlessly. I instantly increased the distance between us and pulled my bowstring, aiming the bow burning with ck mes precisely on V.


    V got up with a bbergasted look.


    Didnt you say you were an archer?


    Its as you can see, I responded.


    The fighting spiriting from V went out entirely.


    How can there be someone so busted? the Italian man said, dusting his butt off. No need to keep going. I acknowledge my defeat.


    He cleanly admitted defeat. It was extremely fast, a little outside of my expectations.


    Id keep butting heads if we were a close match, but I cant even scorch a single tailfeather of yours at my current level. V smiled agreeably. Im so happy I met a human this strong.


    His own defeat seemed to be of zero concern to him. V stowed his weapon in his Inventory before putting out his hand.


    Allow me to introduce myself formally. My name is V Santo


    He was cut off by a grimacing Wilson, who had been tranting. V. Do I have to keep tranting? This seems like a pointless conversation.


    An Intermediate Administrator continuing to trante despite it being a pain wasnt a normal urrence, either. Senia stepped forward.


    If you find it troublesome to trante, I will do it.


    In the end, the trantion duty fell to Senia. There wasnt anything astonishing about our conversation. To sum it up, Vpletely submitted to my strength and vowed to defeat me one day.


    His You good at fighting? from earlier turned into Youre fookin good at fighting. There was a real sense of disparity hearing those wordsing from Senia.


    Is that all? I asked. You want to fight me in the future, and thats it?


    Did V really fly all the way from Italy toe fight me? Also, I hadnt heard any messages from Guardians even after the fight was over. The Night of Shooting Stars or the White Hunter should have responded in some way, at the very least.


    That means theres something more.


    V gave another agreeable smile. Youre quick on the uptake. Very much like Pedro.


    V probably meant that as apliment. I wasnt offended by the words. The future Fight King, V, began to speak of the real matter at hand.


    * * *


    * * *


    The Fight King told me something interesting.


    The Gran Seoul Dungeon in your server is supposed to have opened.


    A Ranker of a country far away knew about a dungeon on Korean soil? And one that hadnt yet opened, at that?


    The tranting Senia suddenly interrupted our conversation, bringing something out.


    [Trantion Marble]


    An artifact enchanted with trantion magic that applies to allnguages on each of the servers on the dimension Earth.


    This will enable uninhibitedmunication.


    The little tree Streamer named Wilson smacked his lips. Wow, you just pulled out something that expensive like it was nothing. Sis, are you rich?


    It was sponsored.


    Sp-Sponsored? You were sponsored something that expensive?


    One of the green leaves attached to Wilsons forehead fell off.


    Ah! No!


    Wilson carefully picked up the leaf on the ground and reattached it to his forehead, gently rubbing it into ce.


    Its one of my few remaining hairs, he exined. Still cautiously stroking the leaf, he continued. Theres someone willing to sponsor a trantion item at this time?


    Yes.


    Can I ask who it is? Is the Korean server always like this?


    Senia paused for a moment. Goodness, she had really grown. She was intentionally drawing it out right now.


    The Fight King V was based in the Italian server. Guardians who were primarily active in the Italian server were different from the ones primarily active in the Korean server. Currently, those Guardians from another region were all focusing on this situation, and Senia was pausing for dramatic effect.


    I was sponsored by the [Night of Shooting Stars].


    He was indeed a 2nd gen Guardian. The fact he gave the item via Senia rather than directly to me meant he really intended on savoring the attention, nouveau riche style. The Guardians attention would gather on him, no doubt.


    The little tree bent his inflexible bodyhe was a tree, after as much as he could before hopping up and down in excitement. His business acumen was far more outstanding than Senias.


    Please drop by the Italian server as well, sir! Its overflowing with enjoyable and exciting content. I will ensure that you are properly entertained.


    And then, he waved both hands, crying out Ting-a-ling! Yellow bells actually appeared on both sides of Wilsons head, tinkling and producing an actual bell sound.


    Goodness, sir. Thank you kindly for the 300 Coin sponsorship. Ting-a-ling!


    Wilson seemed to be quite an exaggerated Streamer. Actually, what he was doing wasnt all that special. Senia was just so very taciturn, but Intermediate Administrators more like Wilson were moremon.


    In any case, we got a trantion item and were able to carry on a natural conversation.


    How do you know about the Gran Seoul Dungeon? I asked.


    Its rted to the main scenario quest Im clearing.


    What was this, really?


    First the Great Explorer Jackson, and now the Fight King V.


    I didnt know whether V visited Korea in the past or not. V had never said anything about it to the public.


    But the Gran Seoul Dungeon hasnt opened, and a weird scenario like this was triggered. I have the feeling you know why.


    Its because the Gran Seoul Dungeons open condition hasnt been met.


    This happened because Ipletely stopped the Fire Giants rampage. It was a butterfly effect I created.


    If things had gone like they did in the past


    What if nothing had changed, and the Gran Seoul Dungeon opened at the proper time?


    The Fight King V would have gone into the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    If things had gone the same as the past, there was a high chance he would have acquired something from inside of the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    But the flow of events has been twisted because of me.


    That was why he was here with me right now. I would have to talk with him a little more to be able to match the puzzle pieces. We conversed a little longer.


    ...And thats what happened.


    Vs story was pretty interesting. After listening carefully to what he had to say, I said, To summarize, you know the method to open the Gran Seouls hidden field, but you need an assistant?


    Yeah.


    And the assistants ss must be a nonbat ss.


    Right.


    But its a ce where only you and that other person can enter?


    V nodded. His quest was limited to two people.


    But he thinks Im an archer, doesnt he?


    Did V mention the nonbat ss requirement in order to sound me out? No, I could be sure that wasnt the case. I felt really bad saying so, but V was kind of in the idiot camp. To be more precise, once he was set on something, he could only see that one thing. He was the kind of person who didnt see anything else.


    Does he want to believe Im a nonbat ss?


    But but still! Could it be that he really was that much of an idiot?


    It could be that hes an idiotic single-celled organism, but


    Even so, even if we assumed that V knew a little more about me than he let on, I had to take action. I didnt fully trust V yet.


    For now, the important thing is the Gran Seouls hidden field.


    There was a hidden field with such prerequisites in the Gran Seoul?


    Unpublicized info.


    I hadnt known anything about it. It could be that it was high-level intel only known by Rankers, info that wasnt told to the public.


    Howe youre telling me all this like its nothing?


    Im telling you I want you to be my assistant. Dont you think that would be perfect?


    And if I dont ept?


    V shrugged. Then one of us will die, I suppose. Though of course, that would probably be me.


    I couldnt tell whether he was being sincere or not. I could, however, tell that it was a quest that required secrecy.


    I unleashed my aura. The Fight King was definitely an impressive yer, but the current me didnt fall behind at all. No, I was actually ahead of him.[Using the special ability Mettle.]


    Dont forget that if one of us dies, it will be you.


    V nodded in good humor. I know. Im happy. Its a great thing to have a mountain I need to surmount. Ill take back what I said about one of us dying. I was just sounding you out.


    I also retracted my aura. It seemed that my Mettle was an extremely pleasant thing to V. Apparently, him adoring people stronger than him was true.


    V grasped my hand.


    How about it? Wanna give it a go together? Ill give you the first pick for all the rewards. In exchange, have another PVP with meter.


    I thought for a moment, my hands in Vs coarse ones.


    Explorer is a nonbat ss.


    The Great Explorer Jackson was in Korea at this time. What if the Gran Seoul Dungeon had opened at the nned time?


    V would have tried to clear the Gran Seoul Dungeon, and its highly likely he would have met Jackson there.


    Jackson had already gone into the Gwanghwamun Dungeon, which could be called Koreas main dungeon, like someone who had known it would open. In that case, he might even know about the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    So its possible that a scenario where V cleared the Gran Seoul with Jackson happened in the past.


    That much was fine.


    If that really happened, then why did they not reveal that?


    The puzzle pieces of the past rattled in my mind.


    * * *


    For now, I epted Vs proposal.


    To think he would make such an offer to someone he saw for the first time today.


    He would concede first pick of all the rewards in exchange for frequent PVP. What was more astonishing was that he really meant it. He really was a battle-crazy guy.


    He simply goes and does things that could definitely be dangerous for him. Is he incapable of thinking, or does he just not care?


    The Fight King V was an iprehensible creature. He should have realized that I was stronger than him, but he proposed a temporary party with zero reserve. On what basis? In a dungeon, murder could ur without anyone knowing, yet V was willing to stride hand in hand with a stranger in such a ce. From my perspective, V was a difficult person to understand.


    I clearly read Vs summary.


    Summary:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Coarse Fighter who Knows No Lies</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Single-celled Organism who Detests Complicated Things</li></ol>


    The current V was simply happy. From the start, V was recognized as a yer who didnt like thinking about this and that. After meeting him in person, I could see that was very much true. He was the epitome of simplemindedness.


    Could it be that he really thinks Im a nonbat archer?


    Kind of like a transgender person, but with ss? For the time being, I gave up on understanding V with logic. That was easier on me.


    You saw someone on the 2nd floor, right? I asked.


    A bunch of yers were defending against Orc Warriors and Trolls. It was a bit frustrating to watch.


    Dont you think its weird?


    What is?


    From what I saw of the Wings earlier, they shouldve been more than strong enough to have perfectly cleared the 2nd floor. But this ce still wasnt cleared.


    There should have been plenty of time to generate the Clear Crystal.


    Now that you mention it youre right? He looked at me with an expression of What about it?


    We just have to find the Clear Crystal, he went on to say. No problem!


    From what I know, once all the 2nd floor monsters have been hunted, the Clear Crystal should automatically spawn.


    Ah, yeah. V scratched his nose, his attitude still wholly unconcerned.


    There should have been plenty of time to generate the Clear Crystal and clear this ce.


    But it hadnt been cleared, which meant something had happened on the 2nd floor.

 Chapter 178

    Chapter 178


    The Demon King approached me and put a hand on my shoulder. I couldnt feel any body warmth. I could see that his hand was on my shoulder, but I couldnt feel it.


    He whispered in my ear.


    Ill wait for you at Endless Sky.


    I heard a notice. Those iprehensible words werent all.


    [A gift has arrived.]


    [cksmiths Red Jewel acquired.]


    The Demon King sent me a gift.


    What is it?


    [cksmiths Red Jewel]


    -?


    The Demon King disappeared. I was unable to move from my spot.


    He sent another gift.


    Just what in the world did the Demon King think about me? He didnt show me unconditional goodwill, but it was a definite fact that he was helping me a great deal. He was different from the Demon King I knew, though the overwhelming force and power he radiated did correspond with the Demon King.


    I cant make heads or tails of him.


    Then, I heard another notice.[The Night of Shooting Stars is greatly satisfied by your qualifications.]


    The Guardian evaluated my qualifications as a bowman rather highly, it seemed.[ckfire Bow has been reimed.]


    He took the ckfire Bow back. I was sorry to see it goit was a really decent bow. If I had the chanceter, I would try getting a good bow somewhere.[The Night of Shooting Stars promises a big sponsorship.]


    Our big investor took the bait very nicely. A response was necessary.


    As thanks for your kind judgment of my inadequate vessel, I will do my best to prove my qualifications.


    For now, I had to wring the Guardians as much as I could for the sake of my growth. There was no better gullible customer than the Night of Shooting Stars.


    A groan from one corner pulled me back from my thoughts, reminding me of Vs existence. Hed copsed in one corner of the room like a crumpled wad of paper.


    Eurgh


    Vs resilience exceeded my imagination. His head was pretty busted up, but it took him less than three minutes to regain consciousness.


    That jerk. Where is he? I gotta beat the shit out of him.


    ...


    Even though he knew he was no match, his fighting spirit wasnt a pretense. He seemed to actually want to go toe to toe with the Demon King. This guy fully admitted defeat to me, but still wanted to fight the Demon King. He was really beyondprehension.


    That moment, his summary changed.Summary: Fighter Burning with Fighting Spirit after meeting his Archrival


    Archrival? Fighting spirit?


    A fight between them would be over and done in one second. Even one second was generous. It would be 0.1 seconds. I wanted to tell him that if he had taken a proper hit from the Demon King, he would have died.


    In any case his fighting spirit itself is nice to see.


    It was way better than him being depressed and moping around, at least. V recovered by downing dozens of potions.


    Were going to the 2nd floor, I said.


    There should have been plenty of time to clear the scenario, but it hadnt been cleared yet. I suspected something happened on the 2nd floor.[Move to the 2nd Floor?]


    We ported to the 2nd floor via the esctor. Nothing big had happened on the 2nd floor. The guild members of Wings were scattered on the ground.


    Theyre not human.


    Twelve Phantom Knights and two humans. What was the word for them? Summoned creatures? Dolls? I didnt know the exact term. Only two of the guild members were humansone young man, and one young woman.Name: Kim DonghyunName: Kim Ahyun


    Judging by their names, they were probably brother and sister. They also looked alike. They were 19 and 18, respectively. The two were public figures I remembered.


    The Steel Bulwark, Kim Donghyun. And the Steel Mage, Kim Ahyun. They would grow into yers skilled enough to warrant asionalparisons to the 8 Heroes. In the case of Kim Ahyujn, despite possessing the moniker of Steel Mage, she wasnt a very conspicuous yer. Sometimes, people referred to her as a typical mage carried by Wings halo.


    Thats what the world thought, but


    In truth, there were only two real yers in Wings.


    Hey, wake up.


    They werent in critical condition. Some kind of special power had put them to sleep. Without the coercion of that power, they would wake up on their own.


    Darongi jumped down from my shoulder, went up to Kim Donghyun, and sniffed about.


    [!!!]


    Exmation points popped up above his head.


    Oh. Found something?


    Darongi thumped his chest, as if saying, Just leave it to me! He mbered onto Kim Donghyuns chest and burrowed in, almost like he was digging into the ground. The young mans clothes were ripped apart, and I was concerned that his chest would be wounded at this rate.


    Just then, Darongis face broke into a grin, clutching a big crystal.


    Ah.


    Kim Donghyun got the Clear Crystal, but he was unable to destroy it, leaving this ce uncleared.


    Why was he unable to finish the job after getting so far?


    I had a good idea why.


    The Demon King arranged it.


    Somehow, the Demon King I encountered gave off a very different feeling from the Demon King in my memories. If he was the Demon King I knew, V and I, much less Kim Donghyun and Kim Ahyun, would have been corpses by now. He might have even ughtered all the people outside this dungeon. That was the kind of existence people, including me, thought the Demon King was.


    He went out of his way to knock them unconscious.


    And the Demon King knew that I had a pet named Darongi.


    Theres no doubt that he arranged it so I could take the Clear Crystal and secure the clear, but


    Why did he do it?


    Howe the Demon King arranged things for my benefit?


    I didnt know the answer. For now, I decided to clear this ce. I crushed the Clear Crystal, and this sh scenario came to an end.


    * * *


    * * *


    [The scenario is in an overhauled state from a variable rted to Justice.]


    [The D-Tower 2nd Floor has been cleared.]


    [The clear requirements of the sh scenario have been fulfilled.]


    The original clear conditions were survival for 24 hours or the deaths of 38,122 people. But I gained the rights of an Arbitrator, establishing new conditions and enabling a different clear method.


    [Your Arbitrator rights have been relinquished.]


    [The Scenario Outline returns to dust.]


    Rewards were given out for the sh scenario clear.


    [Calcting the sh scenario clear rewards.]


    [3,000 Coins acquired.]


    3,000 Coins was all I got as the clear rewards.


    Why is it so stingy?


    For a scenario that was supposed to have killed 30,000 people, the reward was too small.


    Is it because I got the Regeneration Serum?


    It might be that there was a set limit to the rewards that could be given to yers within a scenario. Basically, I carved away all the rewards that could be acquired by other yers by getting the treasure called the Regeneration Serum.


    Well, its fine.


    If not for me, 30,000 people would have really died. I didnt do all this to save them, but that was the result, and I got the treasure that was the Regeneration Serum. Additionally, I received a cksmiths Red Jewel from the Demon King, though I didnt know what it was for.


    I heard another notice.


    [As a reward for clearing the hidden scenario, you will be given information about the future.]


    [In 24 hours, the Gran Seoul Dungeon will open.]


    At longst, the Gran Seoul Dungeon, the dungeon all yers on the Korean server absolutely needed to clear in order to break into the intermediate period, was opening.


    But the notices didnt stop there.[Providing information about the Gran Seoul Dungeons hidden piece.]


    The information lined up with what V told me.


    A yer from the far removed Italian server had intel on a hidden piece in the Korean server.


    It wasnt just Italys V. The UKs explorer, Jackson, was in Korea right now as well. Was something happening at this time period in Korea that I didnt know about?


    If the same thing happened in the past


    If you took the puzzle piece that was me out of everything that had happened so far, how would the situation progress?


    Ive been given a piece of the Gran Seoul Dungeon Map, I said.


    [Fragment of the Gran Seoul Dungeon Map]


    A piece of a map bearing information about the Gran Seoul Dungeons hidden piece. Only those with this map can activate the hidden piece. This map is divided into a total of two fragments, and both pieces are required for activation.


    *The other fragment has been given to a yer from the Italian server.


    The description was even kind enough to tell me which server the yer who had the other part of the map was from.


    V. Im guessing youve got a fragment of the map.


    Yup. How did you know?


    I just got one, too.


    He flew here all the way from Italy, met me through the sh scenario, and the two of uspleted the map. V handed his piece of the map to me.


    We need both pieces of the map toplete it, yeah? Here. Take this and do something with it.


    ...


    I had no idea what drove this man to trust me and give me his piece of the map. Was he an actual idiot?


    I see youre a trusting guy.


    Naw, I dont just trust anyone, you know.


    Anyone could see that wasnt the case.


    Whatever it looks like to you, Im pretty gi at doubting people.


    Did someone tell you that?


    Yeah. My childhood friend.


    His childhood friend, Pedro, a famous Master of Italy and a Youtuber, said it. For now, I agreed with him and took the map fragment.


    Just then, Kim Ahyun hesitantly approached us and greeted me. She had regained consciousness.


    Thank you.


    Its nothing. I only did what had to be done.


    She patted Kim Donghyuns back.


    Oppa. Cmon, get up.


    A-Ah Kim Donghyun also gave me a hesitant greeting. Thank you.


    It was a bad thing to get the Steel Bulwark and the Steel Mage indebted to me. They would definitely repay the favor one day. For example, in a ce that required high defense and constitution, like the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon.


    Why were you unconscious? I asked.


    Well Kim Donghyun dithered, causing Kim Ahyun to step forward in frustration.


    We dont know exactly why, either. There was a sh, and then I dont remember anymore.


    The two siblings appeared very different from the Kim Donghyun and Kim Ahyun I knew. Later, Kim Donghyun would handle most of the external matters, and Kim Ahyun became a mage yer almost shrouded in mystery. Looking at them now, Kim Ahyun was taking a much more active role than her brother.


    He seems to bepletely at the mercy of his little sister.


    That was how it seemed, but amusingly, Kim Donghyun wouldter assume the frontman role. The other knights were quietly standing behind the two.


    There were rumors that they were all yers, but


    I was getting addicted to the fun of uncovering the unknown. I thought I studied and memorized a great deal, but the world in my books and the world I was experiencing was very different.


    [The sh scenario hase to aplete end.]


    [The D-Tower Dungeon is reverting back to the Tutorial Building.]


    The scenario was cleared, and this ce that had briefly be the D-Tower Dungeon went back to its original role, the Tutorial Building for beginners.


    Looks like itll be hard to get more information about the Demon King from these two.


    This ce was now back to being the Tutorial Building. I heard screams from all over. The 1st and 2nd floors were currently connected.


    More people died than I thought.


    I showed them how to hunt the Fanged Moles, but even so, quite a lot of people had died. I did what I could. I even gave them sufficient warning while using Cognitive Dissonance. Their deaths were the price they paid for their actions, the price for not listening to my warning.

 Chapter 179

    Chapter 179


    Just then, the master of the Phantom Knights, Kim Ahyun, said something weird about the Demon King.


    But they didnt seem like a person.


    What do you mean?


    Im not sure. Before I passed out, I thought I saw someone. But


    Kim Ahyun nced behind her. Her eyes seemed to be going to her Phantom Knights, who werent human and therefore werent yers.


    They didnt <em>feel </em>like a person.


    Almost like the guys behind you?


    ... Kim Ahyun was rmed. She didnt say anything concrete, shrinking back with a vague, I dont know exactly


    Maybe she was a little more sensitive because she had a ss that handled Phantom Knights? I didnt press the issue. In the future, Wings was known as a guild made up entirely of yers. There was probably a reason why they were keeping it a secret.


    If he wasnt a person, then what do you think he was?


    Well


    Kim Ahyun hesitated for a long time, clearly trying to figure out a way to put it but failing to find the words. After struggling for a while, she managed toe up with something.


    Its hard to say. It kind of feels like light and darkness are walking around together. She scratched her cheek, embarrassed by how weird her own words sounded. It sounds weird to put it like that, but thats how it felt.


    Light and darkness walking around together


    As I thought, people of our level cantprehend the Demon King.


    In any case, a master of Phantom Knights also said that the Demon King didnt seem like a person, corroborating my suspicion that he wasnt human.


    The Demon King.


    I had the feeling that as time went on, and the more quests and scenarios I cleared, the more often I would be meeting the Demon King.


    * * *


    * * *


    I left the D-Tower, which had returned to being the Tutorial Building. After promising V that we would meet again, I went back home.


    Oppa!


    Sunhwa seemed to have worried a great deal about me. That being said, the sauce on her lips was evidence of how energetically she was eating the fried chicken she ordered just now.


    Sunhwa. You and I will be moving separately for the time being.


    The Gran Seoul Dungeon would open. I would be moving separately from our guild, Giantgod. With V, that is.


    Sunhwa stopped tearing into a chicken leg, giving me a tearful look. Then we cant clear the dungeon together?


    Yeah. Take it bit by bit. You can tackle the dungeon by following the route with the other yers.


    And this was just me, but I thought there was a chance Song Junghye would y her tricks. What crap she would try to pull remained yet to be seen, but I didnt fear it.


    Ill watch to see what kind of cute trick youll try.


    With a look of iprehension, Sunhwa asked, Why?


    She set down the chicken leg she liked so much. Granted, her fingers were still grasping it tightly, but she stopped eating.


    Im super serious right now, Oppa. Sunhwa stared directly into my eyes, starting a pseudo-temper tantrum. I like ying with you Howe we cant y together? Whats with the Gran Seoul Dungeon?


    The difficulty itself shouldnt be hard, I said, patting Sunhwas head once.


    But I want to do it with you, Oppa


    This kids brotherplex would probably get better after puberty, right? It had to. The path ahead seemed dark, seeing as she was already saying things like, I dont ept that unnie! I wont allow it! Yes, she would probably be fine after a few more years. That was my dear wish.


    Its good for you to learn how to work in tandem with other yers, too. There are definitely things to learn from working with people weaker than you.


    Still.


    Sunhwas shoulders slumped, and her face took on a sulky look. Apparently, not being able to y with me was a big disappointment to her.


    Hunt the monsters. If you hunt them little by little every day and move forward, youll be able to reach the 2nd floor.


    What happens then?


    Theres a high chance for a certain item to drop from the monster that shows up there.


    An item?


    Yeah. An item that cannot be traded or given away and can only be used by the yer who acquires it.


    Sunhwas eyes were glued to me. As expected of a kid who found ying fun, she was very interested in new items.


    Is it an important item?


    Yeah. It is.


    The Growth Fruit that could determine whether a yer could get pass level 40 or not would be dropped on the 2nd floor. Only with that could one get past level 40, though a good number of yers were unable to level past 40 even after eating it. This was definitely the domain of talent.


    Will you buy me chicken again if I listen well?


    Of course.


    Sunhwa bit into her chicken again before speaking like she was doing me a favor. Alright then. Ill work hard.


    She spoke calmly with a mock patronizing tone, but her inner feelings were different.


    State: Passion / Desire for Recognition / Greed for Growth


    Summary:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Brocon Wanting to Grow Both Inside and Out</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Passionate Tank zing with Fervor</li></ol>


    She pretended otherwise, but her summary told me that on the inside, she had been looking forward to a situation like this.


    Achieving something by her own strength.


    Sunhwa would probably end up ying a pivotal role in the party. If that happened, it would be important for her to learn how to do things on her own, to be a leader.


    That kind of experience is important, too.


    Even more so for someone who had a tofu mentality like Sunhwa. I saw this as an opportunity for her to gain a sense of independence and leadership.


    I told the others, too. Yeonseo responded to the news with, Yeah, got it. Whatever the Boss says, goes. But when are you gonna go on a date with me?


    Yoohyun just agreed without questions orints, saying, Understood. If Hyungnim tells me to do it, Ill do it!


    Sunghyun also agreed, giving me a positive answer in the form of, I amcking, but I will try my best.


    Only Choi Sung-gu was a little different.


    Shabam. You want me to go into a dungeon without you? Thats a nope. I cant. Im a total coward, man. Followed by, Sung-gu booboo is a scaredy cat. Boohoo~


    His poor attempt at being cutesy had him trembling on the other end of Isabels de.


    H-Hey. Hyukjin. Isnt this a damn strong sword? Wont I fly into the sky and go to a far, far away if you poke me with this for real? G-Got it. Ill go. I just have to go, dont I?


    This guy would only wise up after getting a taste of the de.


    [Youre cing me against this dirty neck? Are you mad, Hubby?]


    [You would put me against the neck of another man? What do you see my purity as? A dishrag?]


    [Im Isabel. Isabel! The Queen of Swords!]


    [Hubby! Are you listening to me?]


    I simply ignored her screams.


    The Gran Seoul Dungeon was a ce that had to be yed in several sections. Every monster in every forked path had to be hunted. The dungeon could be cleared much more easily with an outstanding yer heading each path.


    Wings would also enter the Gran Seoul Dungeon, as would the guild members of Taeguk Shield.


    With a roster like this


    They would take minor damage, but they would be able to safely clear the 1st floor. The 1st floor could be settled with Giantgod, Taeguk Shield, and Wings as a core. I imagined Song Junghye would try something in the process, but that wouldnt be much of an issue.


    I had to approach the dungeon with a slightly different method apart from them.


    V and I got together.


    Lets start our own clear now.


    I had to clear the hidden scenario of the Gran Seoul with the yer who had flown to Korea from Italy, the future Fight King V. Ibined the map fragment I received with Vs piece to make aplete map.


    [Map of the Gran Seoul Dungeon]


    A piece of a map bearing information about the Gran Seoul Dungeons hidden piece. Only those with this map can activate the hidden piece. Additionally, this map acts as an entry ticket for a new entrance.


    The problem was that this map was entirely nk. It was just a slip of paper without anything on it.


    Where do you think the new entrance is? asked V.


    Im not sure.


    I diligently investigated the area around the Gran Seoul Dungeon, but I couldnt find any clues.


    I dont think I can find it with my current abilities.


    It might not be an issue of skill, but theck of a driving scenario. There might be a new entrance that could be activated by a yer who was working on some kind of quest and had some kind of scenario.


    The map doesnt tell us to find the entrance.


    The entrance didnt exist yet. If we assumed that, then it was meaningless to look for it. I examined the description again.Additionally, this map acts as an entry ticket for a new entrance.


    It didnt tell us to make a new entrance. We gained the right to enter a new entrance, and only that.


    The fact that its not showing up, even though wevee this far


    Meant there was another yer who could make a new entrance.


    And that yer could be the Great Explorer Jackson. Jackson had appeared in every single puzzle up until now, and if not for me, there was a high chance V would have gone into the Gran Seoul Dungeon with Jackson.


    I think well need the help of an explorer ss yer.


    An explorer?


    And one with top-notch skill.


    Explorers of average skill would fall behind me inpetence, after all.


    Does someone like that exist?


    Yes.


    Jackson should be able to find a new entrance.


    If I want to get Jackson to help


    Jackson was in a business rtionship with Song Junghye, and Song Junghye really disliked me. It wasnt that easy for me to procure Jacksons direct help.


    ...itll require a deal.


    There was no way a person like Jackson would have chosen Song Junghye as his partner for life. They were just working together because there was profit to be gained from each other. So if I proposed a mutually profitable trade, Jackson would dly ept.


    Also, I knew something that was worth trading. I called Jackson with the number he had given me in the past.


    Jackson. Theres something I need to discuss with you.


    Is it rted to ying? Im a little busy right now


    Its rted to ying. I would like to make a deal with you.


    I met up briefly with Jackson. The location was in front of the Gran Seoul Dungeon. Jackson scratched the back of his head.


    I just happened to be working on my quest in the vicinity, but we keep ending up in the same ce, dont we? Our paths kept crossing. Jackson continued. What kind of deal did you want to strike?


    You were looking for an artifact rted to a king, correct?


    I remembered Jackson asking me about it.


    <em>Do you happen to have an artifact rted to a king?</em>


    Back then, I answered no. The situation was different now.


    Yes, I was. Did you happen to find any clues?


    I looked Jackson straight in the eye. I remembered what he said back then word for word.


    <em>Is there perhaps a crown in the future you see?</em>


    I already had the Old Crown back then; I just pretended I knew nothing about it.


    I acquired a crown. From the Gwanghwamun Dungeon.


    A crown?


    But it is no ordinary crown.


    The crown in my possession was an item I received from clearing Early Adopter  ver. Gwanghwamun Dungeon, the Old Crown.


    The item I obtained is called the Old Crown.


    ...


    Jackson stared at me in silence for a while.


    Shall I share my scenario quest details with you?


    I didnt know why he was suddenly offering to share those details, but I nodded. A quest window popped up in front of me.


    Hrm?


    The Great Explorers quest was linked to the Old Crown I possessed.


    Our stories were intertwined.

 Chapter 180

    Chapter 180


    The shared quest window was as follows:


    [Find the Crown]


    Find the Crown that symbolizes a kings authority. The Crown will open a new path.


    Jackson gave further exnation. The part about the new path is probably not written in detail in the shared quest window.


    What was this new path, exactly?


    It means that a new entrance of the Gran Seoul Dungeon will open here.


    As I thought, Jackson appeared to know about that method.


    Theres a high chance that Jackson went into the Gran Seoul Dungeon in the past.


    And the same would have happened this time, too, if not for the puzzle piece that was me.


    But the problem is


    What he needed wasnt the Old Crown, but just a Crown.


    You probably need a crown retaining its full power.


    ...Thats right.


    A crown retaining its full power. I didnt have that right now. All I had was the Old Crown.


    But there should be a way to restore this Old Crown.


    There were people out there who could restore items that were old and had lost their power. The people wemonly called Masters didnt just deal with enhancing, but also restoration. However, I didnt know if there were any yers who could restore the Old Crown at this point in time.


    If there are


    Then they most likely wouldnt be in the Korean server. V butted into the conversation. Of course, his sapling Intermediate Administrator was tranting.


    I do know a crazy guy whos good at restoration


    Right. Though that person was too much of a giant in the ying world to be called a mere friend.


    Theres this guy named Pedro among my besties, but


    Pedro. The Master of Restoration. A Master of Masters. A global top-level yer rted to restoration.


    The yer who created the Fight Kings gauntlet.


    To be more precise, it wasnt made by Pedro alone. It was said that he was helped by his teacher, Bufafa, but I didnt know the details, since restoration, item production, and enhancement didnt count among my interests. I did know that Pedro was someone who had a big hand in helping V gain his title of Fight King, and I also knew that V found Pedro very difficult to deal with. Pedro was the only person in the world he was helpless towards.


    If its him, he might be able to restore it.


    Is he in Italy right now?


    No. I think hes in Japan right now? Hes probably up to something over there.


    That was good newsJapan was close.


    Could you possibly call him here?


    Mm. Um. Well.


    If youre really friends.


    Well, thats Hell get mad. For a guy who ims hes a manly man, his hysteria is no joke.


    But I had something up my sleeve that could entice Pedro. That was why I asked.


    Tell him I have this thing.


    What thing?


    I opened a trade window and showed V an item.


    [Tomb Pilfering Shovel]


    An artifact that can collect the essence of ruins, artifacts, and relics.


    *Grade: Legendary


    *Thief ss exclusive


    Vs eyes widened.


    A legendary item? Its my second time seeing one in the flesh.


    Ohh, it wasnt his first, but his second time? This generations rankers were indeed at far higher heights than the public thought. Their level was far higher than the publics rough estimation, considering it wasnt Vs first time seeing a legendary item in the beginner period, but his second.


    Please tell him that Ill give him this legendary item if he helps us.


    But hell probably say some nonsense about not phone pranking a manly man


    Just try calling him already.


    V looked a little uneasy, somehow.


    At this time, he should be meeting Japans Itachi.


    Come to think of it, that was a little weird. How did Itachi and Pedro know each other? The Astrologist of Japan, Itachi, was a prodigy astrologist who met an early death, while Pedro was a Master among Masters in Italy. What connected them?


    They supposedly first met at this time


    That was written in a memorial Pedro wrote to mourn Itachis death. Pedro and Itachi likely met for the first time around now. An Italian yer with a Japanese yer. Why?


    What kind of connection did they have?


    I didnt know. But somehow, I had a hunch that everything was connected to my ying. Granted, it was a bit heavy-handed to say that was Precognitive Eye kicking in or anything. It was just my gut feeling.


    Ill know in due time.


    V hesitated. He said hed kill me if I called him again.


    Im not the one dying.


    V pped his fist to his palm in realization and nodded. Right, thats true.


    I didnt know why that was enlightening to him, but this man with a way of thinking that couldnt beprehended bymon sense relented.


    Okay, Ill call him.


    Jackson was watching on with amusement. In the end, V nodded and made the call, saying, Whatever, Ill just get an earful.


    As his phone rang, he said, But he might hang up as soon as he picks up. And he might have blocked me. Ive been bothering him with frequent calls these days.


    Dont greet him, just go straight to telling him about the legendary item.


    Ive used that tactic a few times already


    I found myself grinning.


    If its the Pedro I know


    He woulde flying right away. The guy was crazy about items, after all.


    V came back from his call, his face sour.


    He says hes going to the airport. Hell be on the ne in three hours. But I should prepare to get whooped since I called him.


    V shivered all over.


    * * *


    * * *


    Three hourster, a Master of Italy, Pedro, would being.


    Lets meet again in front of the Gran Seoul Dungeon in four hours. Mr. Pedro will be picked up by my driver.


    I agreed to meet Jackson and V in front of the Gran Seoulter. Meanwhile, Sunhwa and the other members of Giantgod came out of the dungeon.


    Oppa!


    My little sister came running up to me drenched in sweat. I resisted the urge to push her off when she scampered up like a bunny and jumped into my arms. Lord, did she smell intense.


    The smell of sweat. Blood. Dirt. And this is the smell of poop.


    She had probably stepped in monster dung. To be honest, she smelled a bit revolting, but it was still bearable, one way or another. She would be hurt if I shook her off now, right?


    Did you clear it well?


    Yes. Like you said, Oppa, its the kind of dungeon where you advance forward little by little.


    Yeonseo gave Sunhwa an envious look. I wanna get hugged by the Boss, too.


    Yoohyun clenched his giant hands into fists. Id like to get hugged by Hyungnim as well.


    I fully ignored Yeonseo and Yoohyuns pointless chatter. I asked Sunhwa, How was it?


    Yeonseo answered instead.


    Haa, dont even talk about it. I was about to die from frustration in there.


    Really?


    Like I thought, we need the Boss.


    The difficulty itself wasnt high, but apparently, their speed of advancement was unimaginably slow. Yeonseo shook her head.


    I didnt feel stifled when clearing with the Boss


    ying with ordinary yers seemed to be very stifling for her. Yeonseo wasnt ttering me right nowshe was expressing her honest thoughts.


    I grinned and said, Even so, this process is necessary.


    Sunghyun nodded. Hyung is right. Im learning a lot as we y with untrained yers.


    Sung-gu shivered. Learn? Learn what? I almost learned what its like on the other side.


    ...Dont you think of that experience as a learning experience?


    Can it, dude. Whys a brat like you always on my ass?


    How about you act a little more like a hyung, Hyung?


    Hyukjin. If youre gonna be at the Gran Seoul anyway, lets go together. Protect me, man. Shabam. Its my first time seeing such a shoddy tank. Dude, I almost died while casting magic, you know? I acted while thinking at your standard and almost really died. Im serious, bro.


    Sunghyun scowled. I havent seen any monsters so far that could kill you with one hit, Hyung.


    Three hits and Im deadso. And it hurts a shitton.


    A magician who sits around while getting hit three times is better off dead.


    You want three hits from me so you can kick the bucket?


    Try me; my magic will be faster.


    While Sunghyun and Sung-gu were squabbling, I heard about the Gran Seoul Dungeon from Sunhwa and Yeonseo. It wasnt very different from what I knew about it. They were clearing it steadily, bit by bit. The Gran Seoul Dungeon required quite a long time to clear.


    Itll take at least one week.


    Would I be able to find the Gran Seoul Dungeons hidden field in that time?


    Did you find the new entrance, Oppa?


    Not yet.


    But we would probably be able to find it soon.


    The Fight King, V.


    The Great Explorer, Jackson.


    The Master of Masters, Pedro.


    And the Astrologist Itachi, who Pedro was meeting at this time.


    All four were directly connected to the Old Crown-rted scenario. How deep did that connection run?


    I tousled Sunhwas head. Ill tell you when we find it.


    Okay. You have to tell me for sure!


    I didnt understand why I needed to tell her for sure, but whatever.


    Just then, my phone rang with the news that Pedro had been picked up. It took about an hour to go from the airport to the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    Hell be here soon.


    * * *


    Truth was, thisbination of yers was one I had longed for. All of them were yers recognized as the best in their field, people so sessful that a civil service student like me could not even dare to covet their acquaintance.


    Jackson. V. Pedro.


    Pedro was, as I already knew very well, a manly man philiac. He introduced himself like this:


    I am the manly man, Pedro. A man among men.


    He was definitely not normal. I couldnt see his status window properly, and it wasnt because he was being protected by a Guardians authority.


    The power of an item.


    He was blocking my Eye of Perception with an item. It was possible he received that unknown item from Elder Bufafa.


    How about a handshake with this manly man, Pedro? A handshake between men is fiery.


    ...


    He really wasnt normal. Why was he so obsessed with manliness?


    It doesnt matter.


    What mattered was that he was a Master. We exchanged a simple greeting. Pedro was the first to broach the subject at hand. His attitude reminded me of a puppy with its tail on fire.


    Do you truly have that object?!


    I thought I heard a Youre dead if youre scamming me in those words.


    Is it really true?!


    Of course.


    I pulled up a trade window and showed him the item a theft genius had stolen from a budding thief, a once-in-a-lifetime ss item. Gu Sungmins thieving days were probably over now.


    Ohh. To think such a masterpiece existed! Gohh! Its very marvelous. Pedro swallowed his drool. How can I help?!


    He jumped forward to help, his eyes full of greed. A line of drool came dribbling out of his mouth.Summary: Master of Restoration Driven by Limitless Greed


    There was no need to drag things out. I went straight to the point.


    I have an item like this.


    [Old Crown]


    A crown symbolizing the authority of a king. Though it is made of glittering gold, the passing of many years has greatly aged the relic.


    But what we need is a Crown.


    ...


    Mr. Pedro?


    ...


    Pedro was rendered speechless. A long whileter, he spoke.


    This Old Crown. Where did you get it?


    In a ce called the Gwanghwamun Dungeon.


    Pedro took something out. It was a yellow slip of paper.


    Precognitive note?


    It wasnt just ordinary paper, but a piece of paper imbued with mystical power, created by someone with the power of precognition. The text on it was Japanese, but strangely enough, I could understand it.


    <em>You will meet a Kings faded vestige.</em>


    He took out another note.


    <em>Follow the Kings vestige and go to the forest inhabited by the little people</em><em>of iron and gold and silver and fire.</em>


    <em>The justice of the Commandments shall fog up there.</em>


    And then, thest note.


    <em>Follow the justice of the Commandments in the forest inhabited by the little people of iron and gold and silver and fire and recover the Kings luster.</em>


    Jackson made a hum of interest. Could the Kings faded vestige be referring to the Old Crown?


    So it appeared. Jackson continued. What could the little people of iron and gold and silver and fire be referring to? Could it be rted to the Gran Seoul Dungeon?


    ...


    There was a moment of silence. I examined Pedros summary.Summary: Master Driven by Greed Hesitating to Say Something


    He was hesitating. That meant he knew something. And I had a pretty good idea of what Pedro was hesitating to say. Because as a regressor, I possessed a power of foresight that might possibly be far more outstanding than Itachis.


    I think I know what it is, I said.


    Pedro flinched. It was very slight, but I definitely felt his body flinch.


    The little people of iron and gold and silver and fire.


    And the forest they inhabited. I already knew where that ce was. The forest of little people Itachi was pointed to could only be one ce. I had a hunch as soon as I heard it.


    And. I stared at Pedro. I believe the <em>manly</em> man Pedro should know as well.


    I added one more thing.


    A manly man does not lie. Isnt that right?

 Chapter 181

    Chapter 181


    The forest of little people, a certain field some people called the Forest of Dwarfs, wasnt in the Korean server, but the Italian server.


    The ce where the worlds gear is born.


    There existed a ce called the Vige of Dwarfs. It was said that 70%, the majority of legendary created items distributed around the world, were produced there.


    If its that ce, it may be possible to restore the Old Crown.


    The problem was, the dwarfs who lived there had very foul tempers.


    A ce most yers avoided entering.


    The Vige of Dwarfs was a ce yers didnt enter without good reason, no matter how high their level. Only a limited few went therethe people wemonly called Masters or Craftsmen. Only they returned from the Vige of Dwarfs with meaningful results.


    Ordinary yers


    would often die or go missing after going in. ording to eyewitness reports, some were working as ves in the dwarfs workshop.


    The reason why the vige was not subjugated despite that was, of course, because it was the worlds most prominent producer of very outstanding gear.


    Though even if we wanted to subjugate them, it might not even be possible.


    The dwarfs were strong.


    I remember they were estimated to be as strong as level 60 yers.


    If they had dwarfs in charge of fighting among their ranks, those individuals would likely possess even greater battle prowess.


    I believe the <em>manly</em> man Pedro should know as well.


    W-Well


    A manly man does not lie. Isnt that right?


    O-Of couuuurse!


    It seems to me that youre stuttering.


    Not at all! A manly man does not stutter.


    I thought so. You definitely know. Please share what you know.


    Pedros face turned ck for a moment, and then he spoke.


    It is a ce linked to my main quest. And my damned teacher is there, too.


    By teacher, he was probably referring to Elder Bufafa.


    Do you also know where it is?


    Of course. Theres nothing a manly man doesnt know.


    Jackson smiled lightly. Then its settled. We need to make the Gran Seoul Dungeons new entrance, after all.


    In the end, we had to go to the Forest of Dwarfs. We needed to restore the Old Crown into the Crown, a key item that would open the Gran Seoul Dungeons hidden field.


    Jackson shrugged. I will stay here and continue investigating. There are also things I need to check with the folks currently clearing the dungeon.


    I nodded. Jackson would stay behind.


    The future Fight King spoke up for the first time. I will also


    Oi, you little shitter. Theres a thing called friendship between men. You tryna backstab me?


    ...not stay behind and go with you. I know the Italian server very well.


    For a moment, V seemed resigned to his fate. But then, fighting spirit suddenly zed from him.


    All of a sudden?


    Why was he so vtile? I couldnt fathom why he was overflowing with fighting spirit right now.


    But wait, dwarfs? Little people? Whatever they are, are they good at fighting?


    ...


    <em>You would be no match for them as you are now, dude.</em>


    Are they good at fighting?


    They are.


    Are they stronger than me?


    Most likely. I wouldnt know since Ive never met them.


    Really?


    Really.


    Are they stronger than my rival we met back then?


    <em>Rival? Ah, right. But since when did the Demon King be your rival?</em>


    I dont know, either.


    V smacked his lips. There are a lot of strong guys out there.


    I thought his fighting spirit was going out for a moment, but then


    If theyre stronger than me, Ive gotta go at it with them.


    Even after getting so wrecked by the Demon King, he still hadnt gotten his head on straight.


    Youll die trying.


    You seem to know quite a lot about these dwarf dudes.


    So I told him the truth, if you could call it that.


    I know the future, after all.


    You were a Precognitive Eye user?


    I was actually a regressor, but in any case, I definitely knew the future. I hadnt lied.


    I know the future. Though it has changed a great deal due to variables.


    Ohh. V stared at me in amazement. You amaze me more and more every day. Youre an archer, but youre stronger than most close-ranged yers.


    Why was this guy getting worked up again?


    And you even have Precognitive Eye.


    V spoke to me with naive eyes. It seemed he thought of himself as being very earnest.


    Lets have another roundter.


    Why was that his conclusion? Was this guy really battle-crazy?


    Eh? V tilted his head. Hey. Pedro. Isnt archer abat ss?


    Dont say something so obvious.


    But I need to go into the dungeon with a nonbat ss?


    There was a moment of silence. I had already prepared an answerI had a multi-faceted ss, and I just had to set my main ss as sovereign. Thats what I nned on saying.


    Whatever, doesnt matter. As long as we can go in, its fine.


    As expected. This creature could not be understood bymon sense.


    ...


    I was soundly defeatedst time, but I wont always be defeated. Ill give you a good thrashingter.


    V really wanted to fight me again, it seemed.


    Anytime. If you can.


    Great!


    V broke into a radiant smile, clearly delighted. In any case, he was an amusing fellow.


    Pedro tilted his head. You say youre an archer?


    Yes, well. For now.


    But I dont see any archer items on you.


    Im a bit scarce on items.


    Of course, I had the transcendent item Isabel, but it was true that I didnt have any items as an archer. I hadnt lied.


    It seems we were destined to meet.


    What do you mean?


    I will tell you if the Forest of Dwarfs business works out.


    I read Pedros emotions.


    State: Anticipation / Slightly Worked Up / Having Fun


    I didnt know what he was talking about, but it seemed to be a good thing for me.


    Lets go to Italy, then.


    * * *


    * * *


    V and Pedros jaws dropped.


    You want to use the Teleport Gateway?


    It took a hefty 20,000 Coins each way.


    Instead of going by ne?


    Yes. It should be possible to teleport from Tutorial Building to Tutorial Building if apanied by a yer from another server.


    Hyukjin nced at Senia. She nodded.


    That is correct. There are two Italian server yers here, so one yer from a foreign server can teleport to the Italian server. The cost to use the Teleport Gateway is 20,000 Coins each way.


    V tantly pretended not to hear her with slight embarrassment.


    Dont have any money?


    Wh-Who do you think I am?!


    You dont, right?


    ...


    You dont, right?


    I dont.


    Ill lend you some.


    ...Can I maybe not pay you back?


    You want to end our rtionship over a measly 20,000 Coins?


    Can I not fight you if our rtionship ends?


    Did this guy only have fighting in his brain? Hyukjin sighed.


    Eh? I have 20,000 Coins? Looks like I dont need to borrow any. Uhehe! heughed merrily.


    Hyukjin had already given up on understanding V. He stared at Pedro.


    Ive given you the Tomb Pilfering Shovel.


    That was a <em>legendary</em> item.


    Y-You did.


    Do you think thats cheaper than 20,000 Coins?


    Of course not.


    Do you have 20,000 Coins?


    For reference, Pedros current life savings totaled to 24,000 Coins.


    I-I do.


    Thats fine, then.


    Is going by ne not an option?


    Too much time is wasted. If Coins can buy time, then of course you have to buy. If youre a manly man, thats the right answer.


    Of course. I think so as well.


    Pedros hand trembled ever so slightly. In the eyes of Hyukjin the Observer, the tiny movement looked like big quakes.


    The current V and Pedro were still newly-hatched chicks that hadnt grown to maturity. Hyukjin was a little amused because he could feel that.


    To think I would feel that V and Pedro are just fledgling chicks.


    If put another way, it meant Kim Hyukjin had grown that rapidly.


    The Gran Seoul Dungeon clear is steadily progressing in the Korean server.


    He had already spoken to the Taeguk Shield, Song Kiyeol, asking him to slow down the clearing speed a little. Hyukjin asked for cooperation in opening the Gran Seouls hidden field, and Song Kiyeol acquiesced.


    I will increase our break times a little and clear the dungeon a little more safely. However, I cannot slow down the clear forever.


    Time was money. No, it was more important than money, even more so for a Ranker. Hyukjin, V, and Pedro went together to the D-Tower. More specifically, the Teleport Gateway on the 1st floor of the Tutorial Building.


    They went up to the Teleport Gateway. The Teleport Gateway Administrator, an NPC wearing a white nuns habit named Luna, said, Would you like to use the Teleport Gateway?


    She went on to give a few exnations. They might experience dizziness, the fee was 20,000 Coins per person, teleporting one Korean server yer to the Italian server required two Italian yers,bat yers had to be at least level 30, while nonbat ss yers had to be at least level 25, etc.


    They walked onto a golden magic circle, attracting the gazes of nearby people.


    Huh? There are crazy people who would use the Teleport Gateway?


    Doesnt that thing take 20,000 Coins per person?


    Woah. Theyre really using it.


    Do they have money to burn? Damn, what a waste.


    Time was more precious than money. Only those who realized that could be Rankers. That was how Hyukjin saw it. He, Pedro, and V were enveloped in golden rays of light.


    <em>sh!</em>


    There was a sh of light.


    The situation in the Italian server wasnt much different from the Korean server. Countless yers were upying the Tutorial Building, and their attention was instantly drawn to the golden light.


    The hell?


    There are people who seriously use that Teleport Gateway?


    Hyukjin couldnt understand their words, but he could tell what they were saying from their expressions. At this point in time, the value of 20,000 Coins was unimaginable to them. These people hadnt yetprehended what kind of value buying time with money had.


    Were going to Piazza Navona.


    The square, an Italian sightseeing attraction, was built on the site where the Stadium of Domitian, a former emperor, once stood. It was only a five minute walk from another sightseeing attraction, the Pantheon, and had the Fiumi Fountain (Fountain of the Four Rivers) in the middle.


    Pedro flinched in surprise. What? he thought. Did I ever mention Piazza Navona? I dont think I did.


    Unable to resist his curiosity, he asked, How did you know that we need to go to Piazza Navona?


    The Forest of Dwarfs is a ce I know as well.


    ...


    Are you surprised?


    No. A manly man does not get surprised.


    Pedros hand trembled. He was really bad at hiding his thoughts. When Hyukjin saw Pedro on Youtube, he thought that was just a character for the screen, but it was his real personality. That was more of a surprise than anything. Hyukjin grinned inwardly.


    Pedro asked, But how do you know about the Forest of Dwarfs?


    A yer based in the Korean server, someone who had officially yed only in the Korean server, knew how to enter the Forest of Dwarfs located in the Italian server?


    Even in Italy, not many people know it, thought Pedro.


    Information appeared to be spreading through acquaintancestely, but this was still high-level intel. A production ss yer might barely know it. Just who was this man?


    Hyukjin smiled. He tapped his eyes.


    My eyes are a bit special, you see.


    You saw it with your eyes?


    Yes, he did. Via Youtube.


    Come to think of it Hyukjin mused. The person who had given him the most detailed information about the Forest of Dwarfs was in front of him. After all, Pedro was both a Master and a famous Youtuber.


    I read you.


    ...


    Pedro was rmed. M-Me?


    Why was he covering his chest?


    I see. Special eyes!


    Again, why was he covering that part? Whatever he was imagining, Pedros face reddened a little. He was feeling slight shame.


    Its not polite to inspect a manly mans body!


    What the heck was this?


    Ara.


    Something caught Observers Eye. A clue.[Observing with Observers Eye.]


    Observation aided further observation. Something you didnt notice would stay unnoticed, but once you started seeing something, you were bound to keep seeing it.


    The white fog covering Pedros status window began to clear. Pedros mental fortitude was shaken, and that became a crack. Hyukjin broke the items shielding.


    And then, he read Pedros full status window.


    Eh?


    He learned things he hadnt known.

 Chapter 182

    Chapter 182


    Once I saw the opening, I kept seeing it.


    Everything else aside


    Pedro had a subss. How was it that he had a subss at just level 30?


    An Irregr.


    I was already seeing several Irregrs, anomalies I would have been unlikely to meet even once in my past life. Probably because I now lived in a different world, meaning I met different people. They were a ss of humans I couldnt even have dreamed of meeting in the past, but now, it felt all too ordinary.


    Starting with CEO Song Kiyoung awakening as a yer at such an advanced age and showing outstanding performance.


    There was also Ahn Seohye, who was currently one with the Guardian Tower. And now, there was a Master with the Thief ss. Such rare factspletely unknown to the world were now a part of my daily life.


    And the fun thing was, the manly man obsessed Pedro was a biological woman.


    Though him being a girl isnt really important.


    Whether Pedro was a woman, a man, nonbinary, or anything under the rainbow didnt matter to me. But a thief? Master and thief was a seriously mismatchedbo.


    Whatever the case, Ive gotten another card up my sleeve.


    That was a good thing.


    Youre not thinking about something wicked, are you? Pedro squinted warily at me.


    Wicked? What exactly would that be?


    Your smile felt kinda evil somehow.


    <em>Evil? Im only thinking about how to best use the info youre hiding to profit me, thats all.</em>


    Youre mistaken. Theres no reason to have wicked thoughts towards a manly man, no?


    Pedro was easily convinced. Thats true. Manly men need no words tomunicate.


    <em>No, sir. Men need to speak tomunicate, too. Your idea of manly man is probably an ideal that doesnt exist in reality.</em>


    But I left that unsaid.


    In any case, we arrived at Piazza Navona. It was bustling with countless picture-taking tourists. We headed to the fountain.


    There are quite a lot of yers.


    Senia showed herself.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. I will give this as a gift. A certain Guardian sponsored it for the sake of smooth ying.


    She gave me a Trantion Marble.


    Nice.


    It sure was convenient. ying well really did pay off. With the Trantion Marble, I heard murmurs from the vicinity.


    Intermediate Administrator?


    There was an Intermediate Administrator that beautiful out there?


    The gazes of countless people immediately focused on us. The culprit? Senias appearance.


    My god


    That she was beautiful, that she was noble, that she was like a lily; such words were thrown around all over the za.


    Senia. Switch to invisible mode.


    Is that necessary?


    You draw too much attention.


    Why is that so?


    Thats


    That sparkle in Senias eyes was just my imagination, right? It had to be. When I looked at her again, her expression was as much of an ice block as ever. As expected of the epitome of expressionlessness, Senia.


    But for whatever reason, she was being a little stubborn today.


    Why is it that I draw attention?


    ...


    What does yer Kim Hyukjin think that reason is?


    <em>Obviously because youre overly pretty. Pointlessly so.</em>


    Please tell me the reason.


    What did this angel want to hear?


    Because, well, you look interesting.


    Senias wings fluttered for a very brief moment.


    <em>Interesting?</em>


    You have wings.


    Is that interesting? Wilson over there is a tree. Isnt that more interesting?


    Was it just my imagination that she was getting particrly irritated today?


    Anyway, youre getting in the way of ying.


    <em>Your appearance attracts too much attention, okay?</em>


    This interesting-looking angel will switch to invisible mode.


    Her prim way of speech was the same as usual, but it felt even more curt today. Well, her coldness wasnt a one or two day thing. I decided not to think about it anymore.


    Lets see...


    In the past, the Italian server fell short inbat yerpetencepared to the Korean server.


    Now theyre on a simr level with Korea, I guess.


    It was true that the level of Korean yers had declined because of me. They also had less crisis awareness.


    But it still feels like thebat ability of Korean yers is a touch higher.


    I scanned my surroundings with Observers Eye. The result of my observation was that on average, Korean yers had a little morebat prowess than Italian yers.


    However, the craftsman and production sses


    There was bound to be a big difference there. In the first ce, the Italian server tended to have high growth in yers of that area. With that, I finished my general evaluation of the server.


    But


    A group of yers was camped in front of the fountain. I knew one of them.


    * * *


    * * *


    What was his name again?


    I couldnt remember his namehe wasnt a Ranker. I just remembered his face.


    Name: Beratto


    Ah, right. Beratto. An extremely famous racist and Youtuber yer.


    He assaulted Koreans multiple times, inciting public rage.


    There was another thing he was famous for.


    His ss is simr to Lee Sungcheols.


    He was a yer with a power simr to the Gatekeeper Lee Sungcheols, someone who was most powerful in ces set as entrances.


    His group noticed ours.


    Hostility?


    Out of nowhere?


    Not towards me.


    It wasnt directed at me, but at V.


    V. Do you know that person?


    Who?


    One of the yers camping in front of the fountain.


    V peered at the group.


    No?


    You dont know that man in the middle wearing the blue t-shirt?


    I dont remember him at all?


    I see.


    He had no memory of him. Just then, Wilson showed himself.


    V, hes the guy you beat the living daylights out of fourteen days ago. You even brought him to the verge of death.


    Really? Why?


    He appeared to have zero memory of the person he hit.


    He was beaten for being a jackass in front of a gate.


    Ah! V seemed to remember now. But wasnt that a Korean? And didnt he die?


    The green leaf on Wilsons forehead shook. He immediately pressed a hand to it, very careful not to let it shake anymore.


    Thats someone else.


    Eh?


    That was the Korean server.


    V still looked like he didnt remember this guy at all.


    Well Vs always had a lot of enemies.


    His fiery personality had earned him a lot of fans, but also a lot of enemies. Beratto was probably one of Vs many enemies.


    Passing through without trouble is gonna be hard.


    For now, we walked up to the fountain.


    But do they know theres a gate at the fountain?


    Even in the Italian server, only production ss yers were maybe aware of it. It might be that Berattos gatekeeper ability allowed him to sniff out the gate.


    I heard a voice.


    Stay back.


    It was Beratto.


    Come any closer, and Ill kill you, he growled.


    Are you talking to me?


    Thats right. You.


    The hostility that had been directed at V earlier was now pointed at me. I had a good idea of why Beratto was doing that.


    His attitude is influenced by a Guardian.


    And the Guardian wholeheartedly backing him most likely had a racist disposition.


    What does this yellow monkey think hes doing, stinking up the air with his breath?


    He was intentionally using provokingnguage.


    It will be difficult to capture the hearts of many Guardians with such an extreme style of ying.


    What are you saying, you damn monkey!


    He didnt even dare look at V. Apparently, this battle nut had given him a really severe beating.


    V squinted at the guy. Were you ever beaten by me, by any chance?


    ...


    Beratto flinched. There was a spark of rage in him, but fear won over his anger. Just how badly had V thrashed him?


    Looks like you need another beating today.


    Shut up! Beratto shouted despite his fear.


    Because he gets stronger in front of a gate.


    The fountain itself was a gate. Activating it by fulfilling special conditions would allow us to teleport to the Forest of Dwarfs.


    The confidence slowly began to return to Berattos face.


    Well, he prolly got some support or something.


    Fighting Beratto wasnt my objective, and I had no intention of wasting a bunch of time here.


    You must have camped here knowing there was a gate, but we will be going through.


    Shut up, monkey. How dare a mere monkey butt in when humans are talking.


    V brandished a fist.


    Wilson. Im killing him, okay?


    I stepped in front of him. You cant kill.


    This was rted to what I said earlier. Guardians with extreme dispositions would like to see this guy killed, but the majority of Guardians with moderate dispositions wouldnt be particrly pleased with killing someone over something so minor. In other words, it was a prizing y. To achieve great sess, it was best to aim for y that wasnt prizing.


    Also


    Even outside of that reason


    Murder isnt right.


    A person killing another person wasnt right. I wanted to avoid unnecessary killing if it wasnt a special case like with Seo Joohwan. That was what I thought in the past, and that was what I would continue to think.


    The monkey cant go through. If you guys wanna go through, cough up the Coins.


    ...


    Ah, right. If the monkey wants to go through, just gimme 10,000 Coins. Itll be 7,000 Coins for you guys.


    Pedro appeared to know Beratto already.


    It was 5,000 Coins before!


    That was then. The price has gone up today.


    Killing him would be easier, V muttered.


    I took one step forward. I felt a weak authority from the gate. Water surged skyward from the fountain and formed a spear.


    Monkeys need to be beaten to see reason.


    The spear made of water rushed towards me. I didnt dodge. I just let it hit me.


    <em>Szzzz!</em>


    The spear vaporized and disappeared when it hit me. That was because the fire ki within me was far stronger than the water ki the spear possessed.


    You seem to be rather confident in your skills.


    I once destroyed a distorted authority made by the Shepherd Boy as well as the distorted authority of the Yellow Charm Gate. Compared to that, breaking an authority of this level was childs y.


    Your ying doesnt break the rules.


    This y of upying a gate and disying great power there to extort tolls wasnt against the rules. That was his ability, after all.


    But its also not an upright and fair style of ying.


    The System had a tendency to seek fair y.


    Distorted authorities can be easily broken, you see.


    Basically, I had the type advantage. Freeing a gate was closer to fairness than blocking it with force. Gates were made by the System to be entered, not blocked. The System settings would take my side.


    Ill give you one chance before I break it. Back off.


    It wasnt that great to cause a fuss in another server. The Guardians of that server didnt really like it when yers from another server made a ruckus in theirs. At least the majority didnt.


    Beratto chortled. Is a dog barking somewhere?


    And that was thest thing he said before Vs fist met his face.


    [<em>May all lies.</em>]


    [<em>Be shattered.</em>]


    Berattos authority shattered with my quiet incantation, and Beratto was beaten half an inch from death by V.


    Sp-Spare me.


    Apologize for calling my friend a monkey and all that. If you dont, Ill pull out your tongue.


    Beratto kneeled in front of me, desperately rubbing his hands. Snot and tears ran down his face as he professed he would never do it again, but I didnt pay him much heed. It was a waste of time and mental energy to pay attention to a small fry like Beratto.


    A lot of people started filming us in the process. Of course, I was using Cognitive Dissonance.


    ...I will activate the gate, said Pedro.


    A gate that could only be activated by a special ss. I was suddenly able to click the fountain.[Move to the Forest of Dwarfs?]


    After a short ruckus, we were able to make it to the Forest of Dwarfs, a forest of steel. It was indeed a forest, but one made of iron, gold, and countless other minerals.


    Thats


    I spotted an object I could click with my eyes, a silver stoneying on the ground.


    [Ten-Thousand-Year-Old Cold Iron]


    Cold iron that is at least ten thousand years old. A mineral with an extremely cold nature, only special people can handle Ten-Thousand-Year-Old Cold Iron.


    *Cannot be collected


    I couldnt collect it.


    Theres Ten-Thousand-Year-Old Cold Iron here?


    As I examined the surroundings, V interrupted me.


    Hyukjin. Can I just ask one thing?


    What?


    That gate just now, how did you do it? You muttered something and that guy totally freaked out.


    I shrugged. I learned an incantation from V, a very basic one. That meant V would one daye to know about the existence of incantations as well.


    An incantation.


    Not just V, but Pedro was focusing on me. Pedro seemed extremely fascinated with me breaking Berattos authority as well.


    An incantation? Whats that?


    Its like a chant that draws out a special strength. Youll learn about themter, too.


    ...


    V scratched his head. You really do amaze me more and more. And here I was, priding myself as a Ranker. Next to you, Im such a country bumpkin that Im not even from this. Something seemed to ur to him. But that gate earlier, could it have been broken with this, too? I was actually thinking of using it.

 Chapter 183

    Chapter 183


    V pulled out an item.


    Huh?


    I was very familiar with it.


    A Gate Opener?


    This item that looked almost like a bottle opener had the ability to forcibly open a gate you hadnt met the activation conditions for. It wasnt a terribly rare item, but neither was it terriblymon.


    Where did you get that?


    In Korea.


    Korea?


    It was a bit iffy to call a Gate Opener a precious treasure, but it still wasnt beginner period appropriate. That thing had already appeared in Korea during the beginner period?


    Well, theres now saying it cant show up.


    The world I once knew and the world I knew now were different. Rankers had a world of their own that the public could neither approach nor imagine. Even I had already seen two transcendent items.


    That, uh. Um. Wilson, where was it again?


    D-Tower.


    Ah right, D-Tower. There was a punk doing something simr on the 1st floor of the D-Tower Dungeon.


    Ah. Was he talking about the Gatekeeper Lee Sungcheol?


    He got nailed by V.


    I suspected that Lee Sungcheol was no longer of this world. Recalling the conversation earlier, it seemed V killed him.


    Thats right. This is the kind of person V is.


    He was neither good nor evil. Pure was more apt. A single-celled organism who liked what he liked and disliked what he disliked.


    V killed Lee Sungcheol.


    From that, I could extrapte that Lee Sungcheol had dropped this Gate Opener.


    Right. Thats the kind of world this is.


    I didnt like killing. No, I belonged to the camp of people who greatly disliked it. That was natural for any normal person.


    Killing a human, when I didnt even feel good about killing a bug? But that was the kind of world I lived in. A world where no one would bat an eye even if a yer killed another yer. I had to get more used to this world.


    Killing people in another server isnt that great of an idea.


    There were bound to be Guardians attached to one specific server, and they usually didnt like seeing yers from other servers kill their servers yers.


    V tilted his head. You say the same things as Wilson, huh? He scratched his head. Hey, Hyukjin. Could it be that youre an Intermediate Administrator?


    Im a yer.


    But how are you like that?


    Like what?


    Howe I get the feeling you know everything?


    Didnt you hear that I have Precognitive Eye?


    Youve really gotta wonder what the heck you are.


    V didnt seem to quite get it, but he quickly epted it by sheer force.


    Alright then, Mr. Precognitive Eye Archer. What should we do now? I have no idea where to go. Im bad at directions.


    I turned to look at Pedro.


    Mr. Pedro.


    Yes?


    You see that over there? The Ten-Thousand-Year-Old Cold Iron.


    Yes!


    Pedros eyes were full of greed. The desire to possess that Ten-Thousand-Year-Old Cold Iron was zing from him like a bonfire.


    Youre bitter and resentful that its not collectable, right?


    Of course. That thing seems to be something incredible.


    You should be able to collect it now.


    Huh? How?


    I gave you the Tomb-Pilfering Shovel.


    The Tomb-Pilfering Shovel was a thief ss exclusive. But Pedro had the thief ss. Master, and thief. I had the feeling they didnt match, but whatever.


    Pedro murmured like he hadnt quite understood yet, The Tomb-Pilfering Shovel is


    A thief ss exclusive, right? Ill make an excuse for you.


    Its exclusive for production ss yers, isnt it? Dont you have a production ss, Mr. Pedro?


    ...What?


    To be honest, it was apletely ridiculous thing to say. Even its name was Tomb-Pilfering Shovel. The name implied zero connection to the production ss. But that didnt matter. This was, after all, a world rife with ridiculous things.


    I do have a production ss, yes.


    Then cant you collect it?


    Pedro hesitated a little at my whats the issue then query. He was probably trying to figure out what I meant.


    If it were me, I would have collected it immediately.


    People were prone to believe what they wanted, Pedro even more so.


    I bought that item from a certain yer. When the original owner had it, it didnt have a restriction.


    If the previous owner, the poor budding thief Gu Sungmin were to hear that, he would probably go bonkers and cuss me to high heaven. However, Gu Sungmin wasnt here. Sorry, Sungmin.


    So I tried getting a refund from the Korean yers Association, and it turned into a heated battle.


    Something like that happened?


    Of course not. But I could just write it into existence. The Korean yers Association basically belonged to Sungshin, and Sungshin would actively cooperate with me. I could create events that hadnt happened.


    Yes. There should be a record of the incident if you check with the Korean yers Association.


    Actually, me saying such pointless things in this much detail should be suspicious. However, Pedro didnt doubt me. He probably wanted to believe what I was saying.


    I see, Pedro said. So thats what happened. Actually, when I first saw it, it was a thief ss exclusive.


    Thats right. Thats what the shovel always has been, and your subss is thief. Youre taking the bait nicely.


    But listening to your words seems to have fulfilled a condition. Its now restricted to production sses only.


    As I thought. Whenever it changes owners, whenever special conditions are met, the restriction conditions are set to randomly change.


    I think that must be because its a legendary item.


    Yeah, nope. It was always a thief exclusive item.


    In that case, shall I try collecting this?


    * * *


    * * *


    In the end, Pedro sessfully collected the Ten-Thousand-Year-Old Cold Iron. The market was still developing right now, but Ten-Thousand-Year-Old Cold Iron was a valuable material that was worth more than its weight in gold.


    We need to go to the dwarfs castle, the Winter Castle, said Pedro.


    The Winter Castle?


    I knew about it. A natural fortress the dwarfs made to block the attack of a dragon was the setting, but that actually had no meaning.


    A dragon never even appeared in the dwarf forests crisis scenario.


    Not even a speck of dragon scale showed up, and yet, that scenario nearly caused the Winter Castles downfall. I didnt know the details because it happened in a foreign server, but that was the gist.


    They evaluated themselves too generouslypared to their actual strength. Block the attack of a dragon? As if.


    It would probably changeter, but for now, dragons were ssified as one of the strongest lifeforms on Earth. Granted, mankind hadnte in direct contact with a single dragon. We only knew from various objects and circumstances that powerful beings called dragons existed.


    In any case, the important thing was that the dwarfs had an extremely high evaluation of their own strength. Meaning, they couldnt see themselves objectively. It was the crystallization of their high pride.


    That wasnt necessarily a bad thing, but the fact that they looked down on and disdained others because of their excessive pride was a problem. Pedro seemed to be keenly aware of this as well.


    A lot of unpleasant things are probably going to happen. Its just that as a manly man, Ive looked past them with a magnanimous heart.


    We walked through the forest made of steel.


    They''re extremely rude and condescending folk, you see.


    Pedro had probably gone through a lot. And yet, he likely went around with his head bowed because there was still so much to learn from the dwarfs.


    V, <em>please </em>just keep your mouth shut. If you act up, its over.


    Are dwarfs good at fighting?


    Isnt it obvious from the way a manly man like me is just taking it with my mouth shut?


    No. Why would a manly man just take it? You have to fight.


    A true man knows when to act and when to back down. Would a bogus man like you know that?


    ...


    V looked like there was a lot he wanted to say, but he refrained. It was pretty amusing to see the Fight King so helpless with his childhood friend.


    Anyway, dont act up. Got it?


    Tch. V shrugged. Ill level up and wreck them all.


    He might be weak now, but he could just get strong and beat them upter. That seemed to be Vs mindset at the moment. Nothing fazed this guy, seriously.


    Even if you do thatter, for now, keep your mouth shut and crawl. Thats whatll help us. Got it? Wheres your promise? It cant be that youre hankering for manly mans beatdown, is it?


    G-Got it.


    V waved his hand with exasperation, looking very annoyed by Pedros nagging. It was like watching a middle schooler listening to his moms nagging.


    Thats the Winter Castle, Pedro said.


    Cliffs surrounded it on all sides, surging up so high their tips reached the sky. Sparks wereing off from the areas touching the clouds.


    A ce covered in steel, clouds, and snow.


    That must be why it was called the Winter Castle. The castle was truly imposing.


    The walls are taller than most buildings.


    I observed the Winter Castle with Observers Eye. With its sturdy construction and the sense of oppression it gave off just by looking at it, the Winter Castle constructed by the dwarfs certainly seemed capable of fulfilling its role as a protective castle.


    The gatekeepers over there are super bad tempered. Theyre siblings, and I very nearly ended up attacking them. If not for my teacher, I really would have beat the shit out of them.


    Pedro emphasized it again and again, saying that the dwarfs looked down on people, so we just had to deal with it. The closer we came to the Winter Castle, the more massive it loomed. It felt even bigger than its actual size, like it had be a living giant and was pressing me into the ground.


    The Winter Castle.


    I couldnt observe everything with my current abilities. But this Winter Castle surely had hidden settings as well. I didnt know what those were, but I knew they existed.


    What is this feeling?


    My heart began to quiver strangely. A thrill coursed through my body, almost like I was facing my first love.


    Theres definitely something.


    Aftering here in person, I could tell. It would take time to figure out what it was. We went closer. The Winter Castle didnt have a physical entrance, but I did see two dwarfs in front of a magic circle I could feel was an entrance.


    They were just 130 centimetres tall. But their muscles were overwhelming for their short stature. Even their hair seemed to be made of buff muscles. They had helms that looked like Viking helmets on their heads.


    All the hair on their bodies was dark red, down to their eyebrows andshes. What was interesting was that their eyebrows were so long they covered the eyes, and their dark red beards grew all the way down to their bellies.


    From their very first words, they were rude.


    Who the heck are you?


    Your identities?


    Interestingly, even without using a Trantion Marble, I could understand theirnguage, as could V and Pedro. It was a really minor detail, but I didnt miss it.


    Theres something here.


    The dwarfs were hiding a secret I didnt know.


    Haa, the smell of humans. Disgusting.


    Its nasty, so nasty.


    The two dwarfs were apparently twins. No wonder they looked the same. I couldnt read their names or levels because they were far stronger than me.


    If not for the Elders orders, Id have smashed in your artless heads on sight.


    Wouldnt it be better to make them ves?


    Hm. That does sound like a fine idea.


    These guys are pretty good-looking, so they would also make fine decorations.


    They said everything and anything with no restraint in front of the people involved. I didnt get all that mad. This was the kind of race dwarfs were.


    But what should we do about them, Brother?


    I didnt get mad at their insulting words, but I nearly felt a vein pop upon hearing that brother. These two were fraternal twinsone was a man, and the other was a woman, even though they looked, by all ounts,pletely identical.


    I did hear their genders cant be distinguished by appearance.


    Apparently, those words were spot on.


    The Elder said to only let in guys that smell like iron.


    But only one of them smells like iron?


    Right? That guys the one doted on by the Elder. Then shall we kill the other two?


    Isnt it better to capture them and make them ves? We can also make them living sculptures.


    I read Pedros status. He was extremely anxious and fearful of these two dwarfs.


    I stepped forward, which made Pedro flinch. He was already fearful, but became even more scared. Where did your manly man pride go, Mr. Pedro?


    Its alright.


    I was well aware of the dwarfs natures. I hadnte all the way to the Winter Castle with zero countermeasures. I valued my life.


    You guys will have no choice but to let me in.


    The brother of the twins scowled. He raised his axe high.


    Youre suddenly talking down to us? Are you asking for death? You bastard who doesnt even smell like iron, how dare you!


    If I was hit by that axe, I would die on the spot. I took another step forward, as if I werent afraid of that little axe at all.


    You will regret it if you kill me.


    Hmph! Why would I? Seeing as you like to ther nonsense, looks like well have to start by cutting out your tongue.


    The dwarf waddled forward with his short legs. He was waddling, but the power I could feel from his stride drew a stark contrast. It was like a lump of muscle was toddling towards me.


    I stared calmly at the dwarf. He stopped right in front of me and raised his axe.


    Ill cut off your tongue, then turn you into a statue and admire my work.


    Youll regret it. Because I know where Millenium Lava is.


    That was when someone appeared from within the Winter Castle. This ce had no physical door, but someone popped out from the castle wall.


    Pedro seemed to know who they were.


    Teacher?


    An elder, dwarf nobility, made an appearance. Seeing as Pedro called them teacher, this dwarf must be Elder Bufafa.


    But this elder began to say something strange. The scenario I had drawn out started to go slightly awry in a very good way.

 Chapter 184

    Chapter 184


    The golden magic circle inscribed on the wall glowed, and from it appeared a new dwarf.


    ''His beard is dragging on the ground.''


    In dwarf society, the longer your beard, the higher your status. This dwarf was only around 140 centimetres tall, but the beard flowing from his chin appeared over two meters long.


    ''Elder Bufafa.''


    As an elder, his status ranked within the top ten in the world of the dwarfs.


    ''A dwarf master who receives both respect and admiration from the dwarfs.''


    That was a suitable description for him.


    Other than his beard being long, it was hard to tell him apart appearance-wise from the gatekeeper twins. Even to someone with Observer''s Eye like me, the dwarfs all looked so simr that I would really have to go all out observing them to barely discern some differences.


    ''In that respect, Pedro''s got a really good eye.''


    I didn''t think Pedro picked out Elder Bufafa by his beard alone. As expected of someone who would rise to Master position in the future.


    The elder approached me.


    May I ask just who you are?


    I couldn''t read him with Eye of Perception. As expected, he was way higher level than me.


    ''A dwarf is being this respectful?''


    Even someone respected among humans as a Master, Pedro, was never offered such a cordial and courteous attitude by the dwarfs. So why was I, a yer in the beginner period, being given such respect? And by an elder dwarf?


    For now, I put out my hand. Thankfully, I knew a little about dwarf etiquette. Their society was very different from human society. In their world, when a person offered a handshake first, it meant ''I respect you''.


    The gatekeepers seemed to be failing to understand what was happening.


    Brother. Do the elder and that toy-to-be know each other?


    Watch your mouth. The elder epted his handshake.


    Handshakes weren''t amon urrence in dwarf society. If offering a handshake meant ''I respect you'', then receiving it meant ''I like you as well''.


    That''s just ''cus the elder is weirdly friendly to humans.


    But the elder I had seen on Youtube wasn''t very friendly. Pedro and the countless other production ss yers were hit time and time again by the elder and the dwarfs, to the point that those videos were once put under review and publicly criticized.


    Even so, this much respect means he''s acknowledging that human.


    Who would have thought the elder would ept a human''s handshake?


    Elder Bufafa spoke to me over the gatekeeper twins'' shocked words. I feel great achievement from you. Just who are you, if I may ask?


    Great achievement.


    ''Is he talking about the stigma?''


    A special value that certain people could sense. Something extraordinary that only they could see.


    ''What part of me would a dwarf feel great achievement from?''


    I thought a little. The elder asked again.


    Just who are you?


    From that, I had a hunch. This was the elder''s test. I didn''t get a notice, but it was like a quest.


    ''A test to see if I am cognizant of my own achievement or not.''


    That was the important thing to this elder.


    ''If I''m unable to find the right answer''


    His current attitude would take aplete 180. I was lucky enough to possess an achievement held sacred by dwarfs, yet I didn''t even know it. To an elder dwarf, that was more than enough to insult.


    I


    I thought a little more. I needed to pull off this pseudo-quest nicely for all the future scenarios to go smoothly. Seeing as the gatekeepers were unable to say a thing, this elder was very likely a big shot even among the big shots.


    ''An achievement a dwarf would hold sacred.''


    Dwarfs were the eternal idols of the production sses. Everyone knew even the humans we called Masters weren''t even close to a dwarf''s skill.


    ''Production ss.''


    I couldn''t see the elder dwarf''s eyes because they were covered by his eyebrows, but I could certainly feel it. Expectation was shining in his eyes. The greater the expectation, the greater the disappointment if those hopes were unmet.


    Just then, I noticed something.


    ''Massive walls.''


    The magnum opus of the dwarfs.


    ''The Winter Castle, erected to defend against a dragon.''


    They imed it could ward off a dragon. I didn''t know if these snow-covered walls really could block an unknown being of legends, but this Winter Castle was a work of love that showed what the dwarfs valued.


    I gave my response.


    I am a Guardian Tower Master.


    As I thought!


    The elder''s brows quivered, revealing a glimpse of his eyes. Hispletely ck eyes examined me.


    Would you be so generous as to tell me the name of your Guardian Tower?


    My Guardian Tower is


    That moment, I thought of Ahn Seohye. What was the Guardian Tower now? Was it Tintin, or Seohye? Technically, ''Tintin'' was the correct name.


    ''But is that the name this dwarf wants to hear?''


    I didn''t think so. It was a bit embarrassing to say so, but it surely meant something that a person with good ''intuition'' like me thought of Ahn Seohye at this moment. I trusted my intuition and gut.


    At a time like this, you could just say both. With well-matched timing.


    Ahn Seohye, I said.


    The dwarf tilted his head. I haven''t heard that name before at all.


    She is the soul with guardian will who has be one with my Guardian Tower, Tintin.


    I didn''t know what he wanted, so I threw everything at him.


    She is the owner of the Red Eyes. Ahn Seohye is the Barrier Magician of red thread who was born with a destiny that may have led her onto the path of bing a Red Demon.


    The dwarf''s beard began to writhe and twist.


    I see, so the Guardian Tower Master bestowed new will and life to the mighty structure that is a Guardian Tower.


    I wee you to the Winter Castle.


    I heard a notice.


    [Elder Bufafa of the Winter Castle wees the Guardian Tower Master.]


    [The Winter Castle permits the entry of the Guardian Tower Master and hispanions.]


    Come and read on our website wuxia worldsite. Thanks


    That moment, arge, circr hole appeared in the Winter Castle, clearly revealing the interior of the Winter Castle.


    ''An intense heat.''


    I could feel fierce heating from within.


    ''I can feel immense fire ki.''


    zing within was fire ki of a higher grade than the fire ki I gained from the Fire Giants. I felt higher grade fire ki again afterwards via the ckfire Bow. Those experiences bolstered me, making me more sensitive to the heat I felt now.


    ''I want to go inside.''


    My heart thumped.


    ''Fire Giants. And the ckfire Bow.''


    And then, this incredibly pure fire ki radiating from the inside of the Winter Castle.


    ''If I go inside''


    I became sure of it.


    ''I will see a new path.''


    My heart raced, and my limbs trembled. My throat suddenly felt dry, so dry it felt like it was cracking.


    ''Stay calm.''


    Rushing would only backfire. The heat ki in my body hungered for the heat ki within the Winter Castle. I had the feeling that satisfying this hunger too hastily would only result in indigestion.


    Pleasee inside. To the Winter Castle of the dwarfs.


    Trantor  Lei


    Proofreader  Ash


    Pedro couldn''t stop being amazed.


    Whoaa.


    There was nothing under their feet, but they could walk over the empty air.


    Pedro said, Elder. You haven''t escorted me like this before, have you?


    At the same time, Pedro needed to clench his lips. That was because something struck his head. The elder''s beard moved like a living creature and delivered a resounding smack. Amazingly, the elder''s beard formed a hammer shape on its own and then reverted back to normal.


    Shut up. I never said you could open your mouth.


    Pedro muttered very quietly to himself. A manly man is tight-lipped.


    That earned him another bonk. A manly man doesn''t cry. A manly man doesn''t scream. Pedro barely endured the pain as he walked.


    ''A manly man doesn''t hold grudges.''


    But this was a bit upsetting. Ever since his first ss quest, he went into the Winter Castle multiple times. Every single time, he was kicked inside. He had never gone into the Winter Castle on foot before.


    ''I was kicked in the behind and forcibly thrown in.''


    The Winter Castle was unique. When the elder kicked his butt, he was sent crashing into the Winter Castle and cked out every time. When he came to, he was always inside the castle.


    ''Seriously, why do I have to be abused like that when I could just walk in normally like this?''


    A manly man didn''t hold grudges.


    ''Mark my words, I''ll kick that old coot''s butt one day.''


    As Pedro walked, he became even more curious about this person named Kim Hyukjin.


    ''The dwarfs don''t often show goodwill to humans.''


    This wasn''t just goodwill, but almost VIP treatment. He wasn''t even a production ss yer. Pedro heard he was an archer. Just what kind of archer was treated so hospitably by a dwarf? Pedro really had no idea who this guy was.


    ''He''s also not affected by the fire ki inside the Winter Castle?''


    Even a fire magician would struggle with the heat inside the Winter Castle. Only ''specially chosen production ss yers'' could safely withstand the power of the Sacred me burning in the central square of the Winter Castle.


    ''I couldn''t even breathe and passed out my first time.''


    He was lucky and survived back then, but he could have easily died. In fact, V was currently huffing and puffing like he would go belly up any moment now.


    Elder, said Kim Hyukjin. The miraculous and incredible power of the Sacred me of the dwarfs can have a negative effect on some humans. I beseech you to please have mercy and lend your assistance so this dull and foolish human is not burned to death by the Sacred me.


    The elder stopped in the middle of walking in midair.


    I see that the Guardian Tower Master knows many things. It seems you have special eyes.


    That is correct.


    The elder retrieved something from within his beard.


    Hmph, you useless thing. He gave V a red pill. Eat it.


    His attitude was day and night from when he talked to Hyukjin. To the dwarf elder, V wasn''t ''Kim Hyukjin''spanion'' or ''Kim Hyukjin''s friend'', but an ''independent creature''. In dwarf society, acting like this was absolutely not because he looked down on Kim Hyukjin. Knowing that, Hyukjin didn''t take much issue with it. These people had their own ways and rules, after all.


    Gulp.


    After swallowing the pill, V breathed a long sigh of relief.


    I''m thankful and all, old sir, he began.


    But are you goommph! Mmgh!


    Pedro pped a hand over his mouth. V iled. The guy was very weak towards his childhood friend. His physical strength was definitely superior, but V was unable to escape Pedro''s vice.


    Before long, the group was back on the ground. They kept walking. It wasn''t normal ''walking''. A magic circle appeared with every step. They were definitely walking in a straight line, but they were teleporting wildly through space.


    ''Sometimes to the left, sometimes to the right.''


    They were walking forward, but the direction they teleported differed every time.


    ''I can''t make out a rule to where we''re going.''


    It might even be that a teleportation array was being created on the spot in the direction the elder wanted.


    ''Or that I can''t figure out the rule right now at my level.''


    They walked for about three minutes, reaching a humble smithy. That smithy was the elder''s home.


    ''The smithy''


    Ordinary people could not approach it. That was because the smithy itself was on fire. It wasn''t an idental fire. This was how the smithy was made from the beginning.


    Is the esteemed guest gracing this ce


    Hyukjin didn''t say anything about it, but the elder brought it up.


    in order to restore that which bears traces of a king, by any chance?


    That was when he heard a notice.


    [The ''Commandment of Iron and Gold and Silver and Fire'' has begun to take effect.]

 Chapter 185

    Chapter 185


    [The Commandment of Iron and Gold and Silver and Fire has begun to take effect.]


    A System-determinedmandment, a setting of the System, took effect. The dwarf elder Bufafa continued talking.


    You who wish to shine light on the kings luster. You must pioneer your own path.


    I heard another notice.


    [In ordance with the Commandment of Iron and Gold and Silver and Fire, a quest has been given.]


    [The quest Commandment of Iron and Gold and Silver and Fire has been triggered.]


    I checked it immediately.


    [Commandment of Iron and Gold and Silver and Fire]


    Several materials are necessary in order to restore the Old Crown in ordance with themandment of the dwarfs. The first required material is Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron. Once Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron is acquired, the next step will be disclosed.


    Location: Entrance to the Forest of Dwarfs


    The Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron is at the entrance of the forest outside the Winter Castle, said Bufafa.


    Pedro flinched. That was natural, since he already had Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron. He had collected it with the Tomb-Pilfering Shovel Id given him.


    I could give the elder the Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron right this moment, but we needed more information. The Commandment of Iron and Gold and Silver and Fire was something I didnt know a thing about.


    Why is it that we need to collect that?


    Because materials collected by human hands are necessary in order to refine human objects.


    Does that make a difference?


    It does. If Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron collected by dwarf hands is used, the crown will never recover its original shine.


    And an imperfect restoration would be an insult to a dwarfs pride. They were a race that pursued perfection in all things production.


    We already discovered the Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron whileing in, I said.


    I thought that would be the case. You are, after all, an individual with remarkably keen eyesight.


    Then I am sure you know that humans are not permitted to collect Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron.


    ...


    Normally, it was impossible to collect. Bufafas moment of speechlessness meant he knew that as well as we did. At least at our level, that mineral could not be collected.


    Restoring the crowns shine will require a series of long journeys, Im afraid, said the elder with a slightly apologetic expression.


    Which means there will inevitably be trials in that long journey.


    Bufafa nodded. It may take a long time.


    May I ask one thing?


    Of course.


    Why is the Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron necessary?


    Looking at the quest, the Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron was only the beginning. Once it was obtained and delivered, another step of the process would be divulged.


    Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron is necessaryBufafa hesitated a little before continuingin order to produce a bowl to store Millenium Lava.


    As I thought. My guess was correct. A bowl to store Millenium Lava could be made only with Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron. And that bowl could only be made by two races in the world, the dwarfs and the pixies.


    I heard what you said earlier in front of the Winter Castle. I told you ahead of time since you wille to know of it anyway.


    I told the gatekeepers that I knew the location of Millenium Lava.


    If just collecting the Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron might require a long journey, I would assume bringing the Millenium Lava will be an even greater trial, I responded.


    Yes. Bufafa didnt make any guarantees. Recovering the kings luster will be a work of intense toil and difficulty.


    Bufafas eyes were wide open. They were filled with passion so fierce I could feel it with Eye of Perception. The fact I could read the emotions of someone this high level so keenly meant Bufafa was simply that earnest.


    Even so, dont give up.


    ...


    This matter seemed to be quite important to the dwarf elder as well, though I didnt know why.


    Thank you for your earnest advice and encouragement.


    Not at all. I apologize for not being able to help you more. Themandment of the dwarfs has my hands tied.


    I nodded. I understand. Themandment of the dwarfs is a sacred thing, after all.


    May the blessing of the Sacred me, Athenae, be with you.


    I jumped on the opportunity.


    By the Sacred me, Athenae, are you referring to that clear and pure me zing in the center of the Winter Castle square?


    The cksmiths me only dwarfs were said to be able to handle was the source of the unsullied fire ki I had felt as soon as I entered the Winter Castle.


    Yes.


    In order to obtain the Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron and the Millenium Lava to restore the kings luster, may I greet the Sacred me, Athenae?


    ...


    Bufafa hesitated for a moment.[The Whispering Devil is having fun.]


    It appeared the Whispering Devil already knew what I was trying to do.[The Giant of the Sunset begins to watch what you are doing.]


    Choi Sung-gu wasnt even here, but a Guardian as biased as the Giant of the Sunset went all the way to the Italian server. If Sung-gu was his favorite, maybe I was his second-favorite.


    Sung-gu should be clearing the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    I asked Song Kiyeol to slow things down, so the clear was probably progressing at a snails pace.


    The fact that the Giant of the Sunset came here means


    Even with his favorite ying there, the Giant of the Sunset was unable to derive sufficient enjoyment from the Korean server. In other words, Kiyeol was doing a good job for me.


    The Whispering Devilse to the Italian server, too.


    That basically meant Song Junghye hadnt started her petty tricks yet. If she had, the Whispering Devil would be watching the Gran Seoul Dungeon. The two Guardians told me exactly what was happening in Korea.


    I may have to travel a long, long path. Elder, you very clearly wished the blessing of the Sacred me, Athenae, upon me.


    I did.


    Are humans not allowed to give their greetings to Athenae?


    Thats not the case, but Bufafas eyebrows quivered. He seemed a little flustered. That energy is too clean and pure, so


    He trailed off. He seemed to be struggling to find a polite way to say, You may burn to death. This was definitely unprecedented. Normally, the elder would have just shot down the request with a Youll burn to death, fool. There was definitely something going on for a dwarf of his stature to treat a human like myself with such courtesy.


    That, too, would be my fate, as prescribed by themandment. If the Commandment of Iron and Gold and Silver and Fire favors me, I will be graced with the protection of themandment even in front of the Sacred me. That is how sacred themandment is.


    ...


    Bufafas beard quivered like there was an earthquake happening there. That incredibly long beard moved on its own to form a thumbs up. It was like when a [!] mark popped up over Darongis head. It looked like this thumbs up wasnt a conscious action made by Bufafa, but an independent movement of his beard.


    Your faith in themandment exceeds imagination.


    Bufafa seemed to think I valued the holiness and worth of themandment more than my life.


    I began to see things I hadnt been able to see before.


    State: Honest Admiration / Surprise


    Summary: Dwarf Elder whose Prejudice Against Humans has Slightly Cracked


    Of course, it was only visible for a fraction of a second. Bufafas stats were too highpared to mine to keep seeing it.[The Whispering Devil has sent you a 300 Coin sponsorship.]


    Very well, said Bufafa. I will guide you to Athenae.


    * * *


    * * *


    Athenae, the Sacred me, was the fire used by the dwarfs for all their smithery. It was the fire that had apanied the dwarfs throughout their history, a mighty me that had never once gone out within the Winter Castle.


    Burning high in the Winter Castle central square was the holy me. Countless eyes were drawn to the party of humans that were walking towards it.


    Humans?


    Humans, here?


    Its Elder Bufafa!


    Elder Bufafa brought humans here?


    <em>ng! ng!</em>


    ngs of hammers echoing in the air ceased, giving way to shocked murmurs. A considerable number of dwarfs stopped their work and came outside to stare at the humans.


    Hes taking humans to the Sacred me?


    Whoa. Just what <em>are </em>those humans?


    Elder Bufafa is friendly to humans, after all.


    Could it be that he wants to make a life offering to Athenae?


    As Hyukjin guessed, Bufafa was a highly respected elder in dwarf society. The dwarfs murmured amongst themselves, but no one blocked Bufafas path.


    Yeah, that must be it.


    I see, so hes offering human lives as a sacrifice.


    Hyukjins ear picked up many snippets. The dwarfs didnt really bother to lower their voices.


    But will even one of those humans really be able toe close to Athenaes me?


    Its hard even for us.


    Even among the dwarfs, only those born with a special talent for fire were able to approach the Sacred me. What would happen if a human were to try?


    Theyll be burned before they can even get close.


    Even that will make a sufficient sacrifice, dont you think?


    V was trembling all over. I cant go any further.


    He would rather fight all these dwarfs. It was too hot and painful. Even breathing was a struggle. He would burn to death if he got any closer.


    V and Pedro, please wait here, said Hyukjin.


    At those words, Bufafa raised his voice. All dwarfs, hear me. These humans are my guests. I humbly ask in my name, Bufafa, that no harmes to them!


    Bufafas voice resounded across the square. Hyukjin and Bufafa went a little closer. To the Sacred me, Athenae.


    Are you alright?


    I am alright.


    Bufafa stared at Hyukjin with slight worry. However, Hyukjin wasnt in any pain.


    I can feel it.


    The smell of the fire.


    Meeting the Fire Giants itself was a great lesson and experience for me.


    Back then, he learned how to control and breathe the fire ki inside his body. That became one of the pieces that made him who he was today.


    Hyukjin stopped in ce for a moment, to Bufafas relief.


    Will you stop here?


    If this human went any further, he might die. Bufafa did not want that.


    No.


    Hyukjin quietly gazed at the me burning high far in the distance.


    In and out.


    He adjusted his breathing. It felt like the air was made of fire. In his mind was an image of fire streaming into his lungs, revolving through his body, and then coursing back out.


    This is a me of a higher level.


    The fire ki dwelling in Hyukjins body, fire ki that had already been exposed to mes of a higher level, began to whip and roil along with the beating of his heart.


    I cant go any further with my ability alone.


    That was for certain. Even dwarfs, a race with far greater strength and fire resistance than humans, could not carelessly approach this holy me.


    In that case.


    If he was going to back down here, he wouldnt have attempted this in the first ce. He walked forward.


    Bufafa warned him again. If you go any closer you may be an offering.


    If that is the will of the Sacred me and themandment.


    He didnt ept that, of course, but he pretended to.


    [The Whispering Devil is having fun.]


    [The Giant of the Sunset rebukes your recklessness.]


    Hyukjin smiled to himself.


    The Giant of the Sunset must see what Im doing right now as very foolish and reckless.


    But Hyukjin was confident. Here, he would absorb the energy of this pure, pure me. He would be able to step into a new realm. That was why he said this and that about themandment to talk Bufafa into letting hime this far.[The Giant of the Sunset warns that it is dangerous.]


    Hyukjin stepped forward again.


    Big words for someone who tried to kill me.


    The Guardian who tried to kill Hyukjin for his favorite, Choi Sung-gu, was suddenly saying things for Hyukjins benefit. It was proof of just how much he had grown.


    Its hard to get any closer.


    He could see a massive me before him.


    Ill use it here.


    He pulled out the item he had acquired through Seohyes sacrifice, Fire Giants Breath.

 Chapter 186

    Chapter 186


    It was one of the two items acquired by Seohyes sacrifice.


    [Fire Giants Breath]


    Breath harboring a Fire Giants fire ki. Usable only by one who has hunted a Fire Giant, Fire Giants Breath will impart a very big effect in handling and using fire ki. However, if the user fails to control the fire ki, the fire ki will run rampant and may burn the users body.


    I used it without hesitation. There was no point in hoarding things without using them. Using an item when you could at the appropriate time and ce was also a skill.


    Its not a waste.


    That moment was now. If I could make just 1% of Athenaes pure energy mine, that alone was a huge boon for me.[Use Fire Giants Breath?]


    I used it.[Fire Giants Breath begins taking effect on the yers body.]


    In addition to the fire ki of Athenae, I felt another fire ki, the energy held by the Fire Giants Breath.


    A slightly more violent me with slightly more bloodthirst.


    Not all mes were alike. This was unexinable by science. How could a fire be violent and harbor bloodthirst? But as the person involved, I could feel it.


    Inplete opposition


    It became more obvious to me after using the Fire Giants Breath.


    Athenaes me is


    How could I best describe it?


    The me of life.


    That was probably a fitting description. No other words came to mind. It was hard to put into words.


    Theyre both fire ki, but theyre fundamentally different.


    All things began with recognition. I recognized that the two fire ki were different kinds. Because the Fire Giants me waspletely different in nature to Athenae, I was able to make out that difference with greater precision.


    I will take it in.


    It was a different kind of energy, but it was still fire ki in essence.


    The fire ki of Athenae.


    I absorbed it into my body. It felt like fire became air and prated my lungs, mixing with my blood and coursing down to the tips of my feet and then back to my heart.


    My heart


    It was hot. Sweat streamed down.


    Ar-Are you alright?


    I heard Bufafas voice, but I could not respond.


    My heart is hot.


    It felt like my heart was expanding, like more air was being pumped into a balloon already filled to the brim. A tiny misstep, and it would pop with a boom.However, if the user fails to control the fire ki, the fire ki will run rampant and may burn the users body.


    It wasnt a lie.


    If I mess up, my heart will explode.


    And then, the fire ki rushing out of my heart would swallow my body alive.


    Its fine as long as I dont mess up.


    I instinctively knew what I had to do.


    Guide this me


    I needed to carefully guide this me pitching and rolling inside my heart,


    ...and create a ring around my heart.


    It felt like there were extremely tiny holes scattered over my heart, from which fire ki was seeping almost like steam. If I failed to grasp this fire ki, my body would burn up. I had to control this energy well.


    With my unique way.


    I weaved a ring of mes around my heart. The fire ki that had been bucking like a willful stallion suddenly began to move little by little ording to my will.


    Ring.


    Ring shape. Ring shape. Ring shape.


    Move. Please.


    Sweat poured down like rain. My legs trembled uncontrobly.


    I


    Can do it. I had done well up to this point, and I would continue to do well. No, I would do even better in the future.


    ...I did it!


    [A Ring of Fire has been formed.]


    [The title Person of Fire is increasing in grade due to the formation of the Ring of Fire.]


    [Determining the attribute of the Ring of Fire.]


    [The Ring of Fires primary attribute is purity.]


    Ring of Fire.


    Come to think of it


    In the past, fire magician Rankers mentioned a ring of fire before. However, they hadnt revealed exactly what that was. It was a secret among Rankers, something only they knew. I had taken that vague knowledge and given it shape.[As per the Ring of Fires attribute, Person of Fire has been changed to Pure Person of Fire.]


    [Pure Person of Fire]


    A glorious title that greatly increases ones affinity and ability to utilize the fire attribute. Only those who create a pure attribute Ring of Fire can acquire this title, which elevates all abilities rted to the fire attribute by one level.


    *Special skill: Can use me of Purification.


    My Person of Fire title was upgraded, and I gained a special skill from it.


    [me of Purification]


    Creates a me that purifies all impure things.


    Cooldown: 180 seconds


    I heard a voice.


    right?


    That voice became a little clearer.


    alright?


    And a little clearer.


    Are you alright?


    Huh? Why was Iying down? I opened my eyes.


    This is


    It looked like Elder Bufafas house.


    You surprised me by suddenly fainting, said Bufafa. Are you alright?


    Im alright, thank you. I was able to gain a pure enlightenment thanks to you.


    As I thought


    ording to Bufafa, I walked closer to Athenae. My body went up in mes, and those mes were extremely hot.


    I walked closer to Athenae?


    I had zero memory of that. I probably moved by instinct, and gained the Pure Person of Fire title in the process.


    I feel like something more happened, but


    I couldnt remember it clearly. I had a feeling I saw something more, but I couldnt remember any more than that.


    Bufafa spoke again.


    In any case, youre truly astonishing.


    * * *


    * * *


    <em>1 hour prior.</em>


    Bufafa could only nkly watch Hyukjins back.


    I cant believe it. Theres a human who can get that close to Athenae?


    By dwarf standards, this was an impossible feat. No human could get so close to Athenae. Even dwarfs born to be cksmiths and possessing great affinity to fire would be hard pressed to draw so near.


    Even among dwarfs, only the chosen few can


    Only they could get so close. Regr dwarfs that were not blessed couldnt even dream of it.


    Human


    The human race was originally a weak race. They had little physical strength, stamina, and were no better than dwarfs in any aspect. At least, that was what Bufafa thought.


    Is this why the elder before me said not to make light of thetent potential of humans?


    He remembered the elder evaluating humans as beings who were born truly feeble, but were endowed with the remarkable ability to ovee that weakness with acquired strength.


    He didnt even undergo procedural training to get close to the Sacred me.


    He got that close even without procedural training. Normally, dwarfs practiced approaching little by little, getting sessively closer in measured steps so they could eventually retrieve Athenaes me. Specially chosen dwarfs trained from a young age. But that human was different.


    Latent potential. The ability to grow.


    That humans fire affinity exceeded all imagination. Bufafa was said to be a perceptive individual, but he could not even begin to guess how much the human in front of him could grow.


    We will need topletely overhaul our understanding of the human race.


    Bufafa didnt know the details, but it looked like the human gained some kind of enlightenment in front of Athenae. The bonfire perilously on the verge of exploding at a moments notice vanished into thin air, leaving the man looking incredibly peaceful before Athenae.


    Something within him has grown a level stronger.


    That limitlesstent potential sent shivers down Bufafas spine. Using such peril to grow? For a dwarf, it was impossible. But no matter how Bufafa saw it, it was possible for a human.


    Huh?


    But just then, Kim Hyukjin copsed. Bufafa sprinted forward. A part of his precious, beloved beard was burned away as Bufafa shouldered the unconscious man and ran out.


    One hourter, Kim Hyukjin recovered consciousness. Other than the fact that he was out for an hour, he seemed utterly fine.


    In any case, youre truly astonishing, said Bufafa.


    Hyukjin pulled himself together and got up. He had reached his additional objective. He absorbed Athenaes energy and created a pure Ring of Fire from it, which upgraded his title. It would surely be a big help when collecting the Millenium Lava.


    Nice.


    However, all of this was, to some extent, a tangent. His true goal was to acquire the Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron.


    I havent even properly begun the Commandment of Iron and Gold and Silver and Fire quest yet.


    And so, Hyukjin said, Elder Bufafa, my good sir. I would like to carry out themandment at once.


    Dont overdo it. Its not something you can do in a day or two.


    There was trust in Elder Bufafas eyes. There was also a slight awe towards one with limitlesstent potential and ability to grow. He thought it would be better if someone with such potential wasnt too hasty.


    Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron isnt something you can dig up right away just because you want to.


    I know.


    Haste makes waste.


    Pedro flinched. Under Hyukjins silent warning, he was unable to tell his teacher that he had already collected it.


    I can see you are being very considerate of me.


    Ive never seen anyone with as muchtent potential as you, even among the dwarfs.


    A prideful dwarf was acknowledging a human. Pedro stared at Hyukjin with envy, but the praise actually didnt seem to make Hyukjin that happy.


    Would you believe me if I said I could bring you the Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron before the day ends?


    ...


    Bufafa stared at Hyukjin before breaking into heartyughter.


    Hahahaha! Your confidence is really great to see.


    He looked pleased, but he couldnt believe Hyukjins im. Hyukjin grinned.


    Sir. I really mean it.


    You do?


    I swear it on themandment of the dwarfs.


    ...


    Bufafasughter died in his throat. His expression grew serious.


    A vow made on themandment is not something one does carelessly. Being confident is good, but confidence in excess is merely folly.


    Its a different matter if I really can do it though.


    ...


    Bufafa was about to shake his head, but stopped himself. It didnt seem like this young man would listen no matter what he said. He would have to experience it for himself. Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron could only be collected if you had a special collection ability, and dwarfs could discern those who had that skill. Kim Hyukjin did not currently have it. There was no doubt about it.


    You have made a vow on themandment, so you will have to take responsibility.


    Such a vow came with tremendous responsibility. But on the flip side, the rewards would be more sweet as well.


    However, if you bring it to me before the day ends, I will give you first priority in the work schedule.


    First priority?


    We have a two week backlog of jobs, you see.


    If he could bring it today, Bufafa would slot him in ahead of the schedule. Pedro stared at Hyukjin with blinking eyes.


    Is this what he was going for?


    If they had given Bufafa the Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron right away, they might have still had to wait two weeks anyway. The work schedule was extremely important to dwarfs. No matter how much money you gave them, they wouldnt put you ahead of the schedule. This was something that involved the dwarfs pride.


    Hes a crazy dude.


    Pedro had heard Korean yers were exceptional at ying. Korea had always been called the strongest country in video games. It was, of course, hard topare ying to video games, but in any case, Pedro waspletely astonished by this Korean yers method of ying today.


    Are all Koreans like him? Pedro shook his head in bafflement.


    In that case, we will return shortly.


    And then, exactly three hourster, Kim Hyukjin, V, and Pedro returned to the Winter Castle. They were stopped by the gatekeepers.


    Huh? Giving up already?


    Figures. How could he get Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron in just one day?


    And hes just a human with no cksmith blood.


    It would be ridiculous.


    The twin brother and sister shook their heads.


    You swore on themandment, so youll have to take full responsibility!


    Full responsibility!


    The elder wont have anyints if I make you my ve, right?


    Lets turn him into a living sculpture.


    Hyukjin grinned.


    What does this look like to you guys?


    He pulled out the Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron from his Inventory.

 Chapter 187

    Chapter 187


    The perfectly identical twins went round-eyed at the exact same time. One was the brother and the other was the little sister, but it was impossible to tell which was which from their appearances.


    Eh?


    Eh?


    The two dwarfs beards quivered. After seeing this a few times, it kind of reminded me of Senias wings trembling.


    No way?


    No way?


    The two dwarfs trundled up to me, the long spears in their hands ttering to the ground. They took the lump of Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron with both hands.


    It really is Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron?


    It really is Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron?


    The brother dwarf spoke to his sister dwarf.


    Little sis. Is this really possible?


    Brother. Is this possible?


    The two dwarfs shook their heads simultaneously.


    Its impossible.


    This doesnt make any sense.


    The little sister dwarf asked me, Human. How did you get this? Was there a human among humans capable of collecting this?


    There probably werent any yet. Collecting a special material like this was typically only possible for yers with sses like Miner or Collector. But I got it, and I got it legitimately. Being overgeared was another form of skill.


    Pedro puffed out his chest.


    Ahem.


    The shocked reactions of the dwarfs seemed to have injected him with needless confidence.


    Actually, I dug it up with the T


    Even before I could stop him from saying he dug it up with the Tomb-Pilfering Shovel


    Shut up.


    Shut up, dumbass.


    The dwarfs ruthlessly cut him down. His nostrils red a little, but he promptly conceded on his own.


    Yeah, these kinds of conversations are fine between manly men.


    In any case, the gatekeepers were extremely shocked. Was this such an amazing feat at this point in time? I hadnt hoped for such an exaggerated response, either. The news must have spread somehow, because Elder Bufafa appeared from the wall again.


    This is hard to believe. He took the Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron. To think you really did bring it within one day.


    He peered at me suspiciously. Did you already have it, by any chance? That would be a vition of themandment. You must tell the truth.


    No. I swear that I did not have this in advance.


    Bufafa stared at me.[The Commandment of Iron and Gold and Silver and Fire discerns lies and truth.]


    I waited for a moment. Themandment would discern the truth.


    Im not the one who had it.


    I didnt have it in my Inventory; Pedro did.[The Commandment of Iron and Gold and SIlver and Fire confirms that the statement is true.]


    What I said about me not having it was, of course, the truth. I hadnt lied.


    You really did collect it?!


    [In ordance with the Commandment of Iron and Gold and Silver and Fire, Elder Bufafas schedule is forcibly adjusted.]


    [In ordance with the Commandment of Iron and Gold and Silver and Fire, Elder Bufafa cannot gain any marypensation or profit from the currentmission and job.]


    Bufafas body moved, not by his own will, but as if his body were being moved by some kind of external force. It kind of felt like watching a puppet being controlled by strings.


    I will begin the job right away.


    And for free, at that.


    [The Merchant of Venice is awed by your trading technique.]


    [The Merchant of Venice has sent you a 500 Coin sponsorship.]


    The first quest was cleared.[The quest Commandment of Iron and Gold and Silver and Fire has been updated.]


    The next part was revealed.


    [Commandment of Iron and Gold and Silver and Fire]


    You have brought Elder Bufafa Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron, thus earning the first qualification. Now, Elder Bufafa will take the Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron and make a Fire Bowl. Bufafa will create the Fire Bowl with his full concentration and sincerity. You will need to pay the appropriatepensation to get the Fire Bowl.


    *In ordance with themandment, thepensation has already been paid.


    Thanks to my little trick, the bill was already settled. I gained a dwarfs priceybor for free. All we had to do was wait. Bufafa would use the Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron to make a Fire Bowl, an artifact with which we could safely obtain and transport Millenium Lava.


    That would be the next part of the quest. If we kept following the quest line, we would be able to restore the Old Crown before long.


    May I ask how long it will take?


    Normally, it would have taken two weeks plus three to four hours.


    But we jumped two weeks ahead of the schedule. I couldnt help an unconscious smile.


    Three to four hours, then.


    * * *


    * * *


    Song Junghye gathered her forces. She was bolder and more enthusiastic than her brother. At least, it appeared so on the outside.


    Alright. The contract has been concluded.


    She decided to upy the Gran Seoul Dungeon. To that effect, she sought out and gathered yers who could exert authority over gates. They werent very strong individually, but if their powers ovepped again and again, they would definitely be powerful.


    Sitting with her legs crossed, Junghye said, Very well. Ill give thepensation right now. An advance payment of $100k.


    $100k per person.


    And if you guys canpletely seal the gate and restrict yers from entering like you im you can, youll have another $100k.


    Junghye smiled lightly.


    Now that youve been paid, youll need to show you were worth the price.


    Of course.


    Junghye stared at the men in front of her. She was the one who brought them together into a temporary guild she named Icewall. Icewall should be able to effectively dominate the Gran Seoul Dungeons entrance.


    The temporary guildmaster of Icewall, Song Byeongchan, nodded. We wont disappoint you.


    Ill put my faith in you.


    Thus was their deal established. Song Byeongchan moved quickly. He found it fun that there were people with simr abilities to him and that he could work together with them.


    From now on, the gate will be upied by us, Icewall.


    They used the item Song Junghye had given them, a Stacking Talisman. Song Byeongchan intentionally spoke aloud.


    A scroll that stacks simr abilities of party members.


    That was the cue. The seven yers of Icewall cast their skills.


    [Using the special skill Entry Blocking.]


    [Using the innate ability Gate Guard.]


    [Using the title skill He Who Rejects.]


    And thest one, Song Byeongchan, used his ability.[Using the special skill Gatekeepers Permission.]


    All the abilities were stacked. Now, no one could go into the Gran Seoul Dungeon without Icewallsno, <em>his</em>permission.


    Naturally, the yers protested. Song Byeongchan snorted.


    The authorities and skills have already been cast. If you want to go in, go right ahead.


    A few yers approached the Gran Seoul Dungeon entrance, and all of them were killed on the spot. One fell with his arrows lodged in his head, and another was shot clean through the heart.


    What do you think youre doing?!


    Song Byeongchan shrugged. That wasnt us. We warned you that the skills are in ce. It was those guys who chose to move.


    Murder aroused no sense of disgust or guilt in him. This was ying. This was the nature of ying from the start.


    There was no right and wrong in ying, only whether it was fun or not. Thews of the real world had no sway on yers. After all, the yers were backed by Intermediate Administrators. That was how Song Byeongchan thought.


    It went without saying, but Song Kiyeol of Taeguk Shield also protested.


    What do you think you are doing right now?


    Song Byeongchan recognized Song Kiyeol. A bigshot like Song Kiyeol could not be treated carelessly. Byeongchan deployed the defense he had prepared in advance.


    Combat sses gain profit throughbat. Production sses gain profit through production.


    ...


    Then isnt it right for gate-rted yers like us to gain profit by using our gate-rted abilities?


    An Intermediate Administrator appeared, snickering. They looked simr to a goblin and had two raggedy wings on their back.


    Of course, of course. How an ability is used is up to a yers capability and discretion.


    Pressing theint would be difficult with an Intermediate Administrator taking a stand. Song Kiyeol chewed his lip.


    Up to a yers capability and discretion.


    If so


    Then it should be fine for us to use our methods to shatter the strange abilities rigged on that gate and go inside.


    If you think you can do it, you are more than wee to try. Thats ying, after all.


    Meanwhile, Song Junghye shook her head upon receiving a report of the situation.


    Brother really is weak.


    If it were her?


    I would have used whatever methods possible to kill them.


    Icewall was made up of special sses that were very strong when in the vicinity of a gate. In other words, they were markedly weaker when not around a gate. They couldnt camp in front of the gate 24/7. They had to at least go to the bathroom and go eat.


    Her right arm, the man who wouldter gain the name Kang Woongmin the Adamant, listened to Song Junghye in silence.


    If theyre killed, the skills on the gate will all disappear.


    ...


    Junghye bit her nails. As I thought, Oppa isnt qualified. He isnt qualified to lead Sungshin.


    She resolved herself once again.


    I will be the one to take Sungshin.


    Not her indecisive and pushover brother, but her. She was sure that she could inherit Sungshin and raise it to new heights.


    * * *


    After exactly three hours and thirty minutes, Bufafa emerged from his workroom, drenched head to toe in sweat.


    Here it is.


    In Bufafas hand was a seemingly ordinary brass bowl.[Fire Bowl acquired.]


    The quest progressed further.[Acquire Millenium Lava.]


    You said you already know where Millenium Lava is located. I think you wont need to waste any time finding it.


    ...


    However, transporting Millenium Lava is extremely difficult and dangerous. Especially for a human.


    I knew that as well. One misstep, and I could be burned to death.


    Dont worry. I looked Bufafa directly in the eye. Please trust me.


    ...


    I had already seen the Millenium Lava, and I had the Fire Bowl in my possession. Ibined these two factors and ran a mental simtion.


    The result was simple.


    I can definitely do it.


    I wont disappoint you, Elder.


    ...


    I immediately returned to the Tutorial Building. The Coin expenditure didnt matter. Time was more precious than Coins. I could save time and just earn more Coins.


    My destination was the Gwanghwamun Dungeon.


    I can just collect the Millenium Lava and leave by clearing the Gyeonghoeru field.


    Things should progress smoothly if that worked out. For now, I decided to go get the Millenium Lava alone.[Enter the Gwanghwamun Dungeon?]


    I entered the dungeon, then passed the Kings Road like Id done many times before and stopped in front of the lion statues. Armed with the Fire Bowl, I could now collect the Millenium Lava.


    I just have to carefully fill the bowl.


    Thanks to the Pure Person of Fire title I now had, my sense of fire ki was greatly enhanced. I felt a familiar energy.


    I cant feel its nature.


    The fire ki of Fire Giants was violent. Athenaes fire ki was clean. I couldnt feel a particr nature from the fire ki of the Millenium Lava flowing from the lion statue.[Fill the Fire Bowl with Millenium Lava?]


    I began using the Fire Bowls ability to collect Millenium Lava. I wasnt physically reaching out to fill the bowl. The Fire Bowl automatically started slowly filling with Millenium Lava, which agitated the fire ki in my body. Fire ki that had no nature came zing into my body.


    If my Person of Fire title hadnt been upgraded


    If I hadnt experienced fire ki multiple times already


    I might have seriously been burned to death.


    That was how fierce this fire ki wasit was stronger than expected. However, it was still within permissible range. I would definitely be able to get out of here with the Millenium Lava I needed.


    But


    Collecting the Millenium Lava was smooth sailing.


    The problem is


    There was a tiny hitch I hadnt anticipated.[A disruption of harmony has been perceived due to an external factor.]


    The entire field began to tremble.


    A disruption of harmony.


    I quickly realized what that was.


    Two lion statues. One exudes heat ki, while the other exudes cold ki.


    But I collected a portion of the heat ki.


    Im the one who broke the harmony.[The disruption of harmony creates a crack in the harmony.]


    It wasnt visible to the eye, but Observers Eye could see it. A crack appeared in midair. It was still small, but I knew that it would grow bigger and bigger until it destroyed this very space.


    If that happens


    I would die. I would perish along with the field. A massive dam would copse because of a very small crack.


    I had to recover harmony now, while I still can.


    How?[The copse in harmony has begun.]


    I didnt have much time. The fields copse would progress faster and faster.


    At most


    I had approximately five minutes. I needed toe up with a way to recover harmony within five minutes.


    Ill find a way.


    There had to be a way.


    [The Whispering Devil is having fun.]


    [The Nameless Observer observes.]


    [The Night of Shooting Stars is focusing.]


    I didnt have time to pay attention to the Guardian notices. At least in this moment, their notices werent important to me.


    Harmony.


    I could definitely make it. I focused. I would find the path for sure.


    No, Ill <em>forge </em>the path.


    I wasnt sure, but I started to glimpse the way forward.

 Chapter 188

    Chapter 188


    I had already passed this ce with the lion statues many times on my way to the Gyeonghoeru field.[Entering the Path of Harmony, where heat energy and cold energy converge in harmony past the Kings Road.]


    From the very first moment, this ce had always emphasized harmony. It wasnt something I had ever consciously thought about, but my body was apparently cognizant of harmony, because the method to restore it sprang to mind.


    I spoke to Senia, who was streaming in a half-transparent state.


    I broke this ces harmony by taking the Millenium Lava.


    ...


    Senia didnt respond. She was murmuring something under her breath, but I couldnt understand the words. She was doing her job right now, and I would do mine.


    In that case, I need to re-establish harmony.


    I had the Millenium Lava. I was absorbing the heat ki exuded by the Millenium Lava and refining it into my own energy.


    From the Fire Giants violent mes, to the ckfire Bows ck mes, Athenaes clean mes, and now, the Millenium Lavas nk-te mes, all of these experiences built me up, teaching me how to turn those mes into mine.


    Ive already absorbed as much heat ki as I physically can.


    ...


    Senia diligently streamed.[The Giant of the Sunset is watching you.]


    So I gave a little lip-service.


    This is a terribly magnificent energy. Fire ki is an incredibly pure and beautiful energy that makes humans burn red-hot.


    [The Giant of the Sunset is deeply touched by your words.]


    [The Giant of the Sunset has sent you a 300 Coin sponsorship.]


    It was merely a pittance of Coins. But what I wanted wasnt Coins or items from the Giant of the Sunset.


    Since Ive broken the harmony of the Millenium Lava and Millenium Ice Water


    ...


    I walked towards the lion statue that was spewing the incredibly cold Millenium Ice Water.


    This is my karmic retribution.


    ...


    I will extract the cold energy of the Millenium Ice Water.


    Only then did Senia ask me a question.


    You were able to collect the Millenium Lava because you had the Fire Bowl. How do you intend on getting the Millenium Ice Water?


    I have the Fire Bowl.


    What do you mean?


    I filled the Fire Bowl with Millenium Lava.


    Yes. All the Guardians saw it as well.


    The reason why these crafty Guardian bastards werent sponsoring me right now was simple.


    They must think theres a chance Ill die here.


    No one would spend real money on a game character that was about to be erased. That was probably how the Guardians felt right now. But on the other hand, if I were to clear this ce without dying


    An even greater reward would follow.


    With that in mind, I said a few more things to make the situation clearer and better for Senia to film.


    The process of filling the Fire Bowl with Millenium Lava


    I tapped my eyes.


    I saw it. The flow of the energy. The sequence of events. I watched it all, from start to finish.


    ...


    Since Ive seen it


    My body began to shiver uncontrobly.


    I can do it.


    Millennium Ice Water flowed from the lion statue. My body felt frozen solid. The further I strayed from the Path of Harmony and the closer I got to the Millenium Lava, the more pressing my fear of death became.


    Since Im an Observer.[The Nameless Observer happily observes.]


    I knew what kind of ability my Observers Eye had.-Action Duplication: Copy the actions of an observation target (currently cannot be used).


    My observation target here was the Fire Bowl.


    I cant use the skill.


    But I could recreate its effects with effort, like Id done time and time again. It was like that for another of my powers, Future Sight, and for my recently acquired Eye of Investigation. I was able to aplish all of them with Eye of Perceptions intuition.


    Though itll be clumsy and unrefinedpared to a skill.


    Even so, I could pull it off with my perception and physical ability. The Nameless Observer wasnt just observing, but observing happily. That meant I was ying in the right direction.


    But you dont have a vessel to store it, said Senia.


    The vessel


    I couldnt get all the Millenium Ice Water. I would die trying. No, I would be frozen solid before I could even begin and meet my end along with this ce. I didnt have an inkling of desire to end my story that way.


    ...is me.


    I reached for the cascading Millenium Ice Water.


    * * *


    * * *


    To put it in terms of the result, I came really, truly close to death.


    [Intermediate Administrator Senia has used a Pause authority.]


    [Intermediate Administrator Senia has closed her channel.]


    I was sprawled out in the Path of Harmony right now, barely alive. The moment I epted and absorbed the cold ki, I nearly cked out.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. Are you insane?


    Im not insane.


    You say that, but just now, you were almost frozen solid, consciousness and all.


    But I didnt freeze.


    You were just lucky.


    Do you really think that?


    ...


    My body was still stiff. I needed to thaw out a bit more.


    Luck is definitely a thing. But dont you think whether one can bend that luck to their benefit or not is a part of their personalpetence?


    There must also be morons who die while testing thatpetence.


    You remember when V was grabbed in the throat by that guy, right?


    Of course I do.


    That guy referred to the Demon King. Back then, V used an interesting innate ability called Last Thread of Consciousness to hang onto consciousness.


    That innate ability. I can imitate it.


    Even though you nearly died trying.


    Something suddenly struck me as odd.


    But why are you mad?


    Me?


    Senias wings fluttered. She got to her feet in a huff.


    I am an emotionless angel.


    But youre mad.


    ...


    Ah. Is it because youll no longer get to enjoy the big profits you have now if I die?


    Im not mad. Make no mistake.


    Anyone could tell she was mad. In any case, my body loosened up a bit. The heat of the Millenium Lava in the Fire Bowl rapidly thawed my body.


    Dont worry. I dont intend on dying, and I wont die in the future, either.


    If you die, I will seek 300x the penalty for contract vition.


    How? Ill be dead.


    Repay me, even in death.


    And how exactly should I do that if Im dead? If I die, its over.


    I will wring the money from you even if I have to chase you to the very ends of hell.


    Senia was acting a little odd today. Why did she choose to use a Pause and even close her channel at this particr moment? Was it a good moment for a cliffhanger?


    Alls well that ends well.


    The process was reckless.


    That recklessness should have made for even more dramatic footage.


    I used my body as a vessel to take in and neutralize the Millenium Ice Waters energy, forcibly correcting the faltering bnce of yin and yang. For the Guardians, it must have been an extremely dramatic and fun scene.


    Closing your channel like that prevented you from getting proper sponsorships, didnt it?


    Is that important right now?


    It is. Your sess is my sess. You have to do well for me to do well. At least when ites to ying, you and I are on the same boat, and well be forging ahead together in the future as well. What are you saying right now, Senia?


    Why was she being such an amateur?


    Well, no use crying over spilled milk, I said. Reopen your channel in a little bit. And edit it to make it look like I made a dramatic recovery.


    I really cannot understand you.


    How so?


    What drives you to such desperate lengths? Is that kind of footage and streaming important even in a situation like this?


    What was she going on about now? Well, it was true that I was desperate. Because I was determined to live. Because I had resolved to live and be really happy with my family. Because I wanted more than anything to forge my own future.


    Does anyone need a desperate reason to want to survive?


    Thats not what I mea


    And if were splitting hairs, it wasnt <em>that </em>desperate.


    ...


    I believed it was sufficiently possible. That I could certainly ovee this trial with my strength.


    ...


    Of course the footage and stream showing that is important. Thats the reason you and I are working together. Why we signed an exclusive contract. Why were operating in tandem.


    Of course. Its solely because of the exclusive contract. Naturally.


    And then, Senia suddenly went back to transparent mode, no notice, no nothing. Why did an angel whose emotion organ wasnt just atrophied, but downright vestigial, seem enraged?


    [The Pause has been dispelled.]


    [Channel #19207 has opened.]


    Senias channel was reactivated.


    [The Nameless Observer is satisfied by your observation.]


    [The Giant of the Sunset breathes a sigh of relief.]


    [The Whispering Devil is regretful.]


    Because of Senias mistake, I missed out on my chance for sponsorships, too. It was a shameit would have been nice if she would have directed and shown the scene properly.


    That bus has already left the stop.


    I fixed the Path of Harmony. Now, I had to leave the Gwanghwamun Dungeon. Like I was originally nning, I could leave if I cleared the Gyeonghoeru field.[You have pioneered the Path of Harmony, where heat energy and cold energy converge in harmony past the Kings Road.]


    Oh? The notice was different. The original notice had entering, not pioneered.[Entering the Path of Harmony, where heat energy and cold energy converge in harmony past the Kings Road.]


    But now, it was pioneered. Pioneer. The word was familiar to meI had a title called Pioneer of Victory.


    [Determining whether you have an ability rted to pioneering.]


    [The Pioneer of Victory title has been confirmed.]


    And then,[A hidden title effect of Pioneer of Victory has been triggered.]


    [Pioneer of Victory]


    A glorious title given to one who pioneered a new domain and seized the first victory in a new domain.<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    All party members +20% EXP</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Stacks with other titles.</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Stacks with other effects (buffs/debuffs).</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Amplifies all title effects when in a field pioneered by the Pioneer of Victory.</li></ol>


    [Entering the Purified Gyeonghoeru.]


    [The Purified Gyeonghoeru is a field pioneered by the Pioneer of Victory.]


    [Pioneer of Victorys (4) effect applies.]


    I entered the Gyeonghoeru, but it wasnt the same field I knew.


    Purified Gyeonghoeru?


    It was clean. It felt as if the massive Korean-style pavilion was floating atop a clearke. The building was in immacte condition, and an elegant grace settled over the field. That was how my Observers Eye interpreted it.


    I dont see the Polluted Lifeforms.


    Then how was I supposed to clear this ce?


    Theke is incredibly clear and clean.


    The water that shouldvebe swimming with Carnivore Mermaids was so clear I could see the bottom. Its rity gave the impression that it wasnt very deep. Scattered lotuses floated cidly on the surface.


    The clear, limpidke. The beautiful lotus clusters atop the clear water. And the Gyeonghoeru towering proudly above it all.


    As I stood there taking it all in, I felt it.


    Its dizzying.


    The water was particrly dizzying. It was incredibly deep. So deep that it was unfathomable, that my eyes right now could not even begin to guess its depths.


    Treasures.


    In those deep depths, I saw treasures. They were sparkling, as if to call me in.


    And countless artifacts.


    They were all submerged in the water. It felt like I could just jump right in and fish them up.


    No.


    No. I could tell.


    That water is no ordinary water.


    Scientifically speaking, you might be able to call it water. I knew what it was.


    Snow Leaden Water.


    Water that was as pure and crystal clear as snow, but as heavy as lead, far heavier than regr water.


    Water so heavy a human cant escape it with their own might.


    It looked like clear water, but jumping into it would be like jumping into a sludgy swamp. Monster hunting wasnt the clear condition for this ce.


    I see the sailboat.


    Far in the distance, a sailboat wasing over the horizon towards me. There was definitely something on that sailboat, a fixture I had paid little attention to when clearing the Gyeonghoeru field before. I had seen it many times over the course of my many Gyeonghoeru clears, but there hadnt been anything special about it.


    Now, it was making an appearance. Even without any wind, the sailboat surged towards the pavilion at a fairly quick clip.


    The answer is inside.


    The sailboat came close, and I heard a notice.[The Purified Gyeonghoeru Scenario is beginning.]

 Chapter 189

    Chapter 189


    There was no intel whatsoever regarding the new field within the Gwanghwamun Dungeon, the Purified Gyeonghoeru. That meant I had to find the clear method on my own.


    The sailboat drew steadily nearer.


    The sailboat is traveling faster than I thought.


    It was extremely far away, but approached the pavilion much faster than expected. It almost felt like watching a wheel tumble faster and faster down a slope.


    And.


    I saw it.


    Theres a Clear Crystal on the sailboat.


    I had already cleared the Gyeonghoeru field many times. Having observed the field every time I cleared the Polluted Lifeforms scenario, I knew where and when the sailboat would pass by.


    About one minute from now.


    In one minute, the sailboat would glide past with the closest distance to where I was standing.


    However


    It wouldnt be a distance I could cross with sh Step or a single leap. That left two optionsI would either have to walk over the sloshing water, or somehow swim through the Snow Leaden Water to reach the sailboat.


    A long-ranged attack is impossible.


    Of course, there were long-ranged DPSes who attempted to attack the sailboat. But very few people survived the attempt. That sailboat was essentially a neutral monster. If you left it alone, it wouldnt do anything, but the moment you messed with it, a rain of cannonballs woulde shooting out of the sailboat to reduce the Gyeonghoeru to ashes.


    It was a sailboat with a special defensive ability against long-ranged attacks.


    The only answer, then, is to go there myself.


    The course was set.


    Snow Leaden Water.


    I had to be careful. The water below me was truly heavy, and it would drag you to the depths like a sinkhole. Once you fell in, there was zero chance you would ever get back out by yourself. The moment I slipped, the water would suck me in from my ankles down, almost like a ck hole.


    Hoo.


    I took a deep breath. Swimming was out of the question anyway. The only option I had was to jump over the water.


    The location of the lotuses


    They were floating so far apart from one another that the distance seemed impossible to jump. But those lotuses were definitely spaced so they could be used to ford the water, though messing up would mean death.


    I just need to not mess up.


    The sailboat wasing. I only had one chance. If I missed it, I wouldnt be able to catch up to the sailboat. If I didnt go, I would die here anyway. That was almost certain.


    Here I go.


    There wasnt much time. I couldnt think about it for too long. I fixed my eyes on my firstnding point.[Using the special skill sh Step.]


    I jumped onto a lotus with sh Step. It instantly buckled under my weight.


    Okay.


    I grasped the feeling of it. Getting my bnce atop the lotus wasnt hard.


    Over there.


    Before jumping, I drew out the trajectory of my leap in my head.


    And here.


    I jumped again, going from one impossibly distant-looking lotus to the next.


    As for this one


    I had to choose between two lotuses.


    Here.


    I didnt stop to calcte. No, there was no time to think. The path Id drawn in my head in advance and the one I was experiencing in the flesh were a little different.


    And here.


    Some distance away, two lotuses were floating next to each other.


    There.


    The left lotus was smaller, and the right lotus was bigger. I jumped towards the right lotus. It was a little far, but I barely managed tond safely on it. There, I paused for a moment.


    This lotus can hold my weight for three seconds.


    The length of time a lotus could hold my weight was contingent on its size. This one could hold me for three seconds. I had chosen the right lotus with that in mind.


    And.


    The sailboat felt incrediblyrge. It was very close. Perched atop this lotus, where a tiny misstep could send me sinking to my death, the sailboat feltrger than life.


    A little longer.


    Three seconds. It was a very short time, but right now, the seconds stretched like taffy. Time slowed, and all I could see was the sailboat. Even in that slowed moment, the sailboat raced forward.


    Itll pass there.


    It was far. A distance so far I could never reach it with a single jump. So I made a decision. I had another lotus here, a lotus without roots, one I could lift. I bent to grab the lotus on the left.


    And then, I threw it.


    I jumped at the same time. My feet were damp. 0.1 seconds slower, and I would have been sucked into the depths.


    The lotus I had thrownnded in the water. I used sh Step towards it. I stepped onto the small lotus and leapt high into the air.


    <em>Whap!</em>


    I just barely caught the sailboat railing.


    Drawing out all my strength, I hauled myself up like I was doing a chin-up and barely managed to get on the sailboat. Once I made it on the deck, a notice sounded to tell me that the Clear Crystal had been generated.


    At the same time, the Guardians rushed to send me messages.


    [The Nameless Observer observes.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain is very content with your genius.]


    [The White Hunter is delighted by your astonishing sense of bnce.]


    [The Barrier of Blue Light breathes a sigh of relief.]


    [The Conductor of Sound is awed by your ability to assess the battlefield.]


    They were all surprised by different things. Also, the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountains message made me realize something.


    No wonder my body felt so light.


    I was focusing so hard that I forgot for a moment.


    4. Amplifies all title effects when in a field pioneered by the Pioneer of Victory.


    It amplified the effects of all my titles, including Excellent yer, which had the following effect:


    2. +20% movement speed.


    No wonder my body felt lighter than usual.


    But that wasnt the important part. That wasnt why the True Master was impressed. He was impressed by my physical ability to freely control an abruptly lightened body. Looking back on it, I was shocked, too.


    Was this kind of thing really possible?


    I was the one who pulled it off, but I was surprised. My physical abilities suddenly shot up, but I wasnt flustered by the changes and moved with extreme ease, like my body had always been that way.


    Its possible.


    It was possible. My experience proved that. I walked towards the Clear Crystal in front of me.[Clear Crystal]


    If I destroyed it, this ce would be cleared.


    But


    Where in the world was this sailboat going? It was surging along even with me on it. If I stayed on it, where would it go? Where was the far off destination this sailboat was skidding towards like a sled?


    Maybe I should wait a little?


    I intentionally didnt break the Clear Crystal. I could just immediately break it if something dangerous happened.


    Some time passed.


    <em>Crash!</em>


    The sailboat crashed into something with a reverberating thud.


    What it collided into was an invisible wall.


    [The Sailing Sailboat has reached the End of the Gyeonghoeru.]


    [The End of the Gyeonghoeru does not permit further approach.]


    The sailboats hull began to quiver, and the ship began to very slowly sink into the water.


    Thats


    I could see them.


    The things past the End of the Gyeonghoeru, past the invisible wall.


    * * *


    * * *


    I went back home to rest a little, exhausted. The Gyeonghoeru field had consumed too much stamina, and I needed rest. In the meantime, I got a progress report from Song Kiyeol, who told me that Song Junghye was using gate yers she had gathered to y a little trick.


    Thats good.


    The Gran Seoul Dungeon clear would be even more dyed now.


    And theres still a long time before the dungeon breaks.


    The Gran Seoul Dungeon break urred fairlyte. There was plenty of leeway, time-wise. I really had to thank Song Junghye. She delivered the Tomb-Pilfering Shovel to me at the Guardian Tower on a silver tter, and her sloppy ying helped me slot in a puzzle piece.


    At this point, isnt she kind of a tsundere?


    She seemed to think she was acting for <em>her </em>benefit, but it sure felt like she was working for <em>mine</em>.


    In any case.


    I couldnt shake off the bad feeling that lingered after clearing the Gyeonghoeru field.


    Did the Great Explorer Jackson really not know about the Purified Gyeonghoeru field?


    I believed there was a very high chance that he knew about the Purified Gyeonghoeru field. In ten years, yers were far more capable than they were now. There was no way the Jackson from back then didnt know.


    That would be ridiculous.


    He knew; I was sure of it. He just didnt tell the other yers about its existence.


    The problem is


    Then what about other explorers?


    There were a lot of outstanding explorers in Korea, too.


    Jackson was the most famous explorer, but he wasnt the only one. Countless explorer yers had to have gone into the Gwanghwamun Dungeon. At least one of them would have known about this Purified Gyeonghoeru field, because there was a seemingly unnecessary sailboat in the field. An explorer would have found it curious.


    Its definitely weird.


    There was no way none of those explorers knew about it. But no one had ever mentioned anything about a Purified Gyeonghoeru.


    Someone intentionally covered it up.


    That was the only conclusion I could reach.


    Come to think of it what did I see?


    At the end of the Gyeonghoeru field, I remembered colliding into a transparent barrier. And I remembered seeing something past that barrier. But I didnt remember what that something was. I definitely saw it, but it was like someone had tampered with my memories.


    This feeling


    It felt simr to what happened when I was talking with the Demon King.


    <em>Did you hunt s toys?</em>


    <em>. Cant understand me?</em>


    It was like that. It felt like the System, or possibly some kind of force that wasnt the System, was forcibly acting on me.


    In the Gwanghwamun Dungeon there are secrets I dont know.


    I happened to catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror across from my bed.


    Huh?


    I didnt realize it, but I was smiling. I was smiling like someone who had found a fun game to y.


    This is gonna be fun.


    * * *


    After taking a short break, I headed to the Tutorial Building.


    The D-Tower, please.


    It sure was nice. This ultra-luxury sedan,plete with a veteran chauffeur. This environment where I could focus solely on ying was truly a blessing to me.


    I ran into Choi Sung-gu on the 1st floor.


    Hey! Hyukjin! he called, so loudly his voice could be heard throughout the D-Tower. He waved enthusiastically. The hell is with you, man?


    What?


    You cant feel it? The air around you is hot af.


    Really? I cant feel a thing.


    Some people could feel the fire ki I possessed, and some couldnt.


    Hey. Just what the hell happened to you? Fuck. Its so hot I cant even get close.


    That was probably because of the Millenium Lava in my Inventory.


    Urgh, so blinding.


    Sung-gu wasnt able to get close to me.


    Youre like a pir of fire or something. Fuck. What the hell are you going around doing?


    What do you mean?


    Your body looks like its gonna explode, dude. Sung-gu peered at me from a distance. Like an energy of opposing nature is tamping down the fire kiing out of you, keeping you alive.


    Sung-gu looked tearfully at me. Dude, you cant leave me and die. If you go, we have to go together.


    ...


    How am I supposed to y without you? ying these days is really so suffocating I could die.


    Apparently, it was really, really frustrating to work in conjunction with other yers. I could imagine that yers with low basic defense like Choi Sung-gu felt particrly endangered.


    So I gave him a little reassurance.


    Yeah, youll be fine. You wont die.


    Hey, hey! Have a heart, man! I seriously feel like Im gonna die here!


    But youre alive.


    Th-Thats true, but


    Thats enough.


    I bypassed the loudlyining Sung-gu and got onto the Teleport Gateway. I teleported back to Italy.


    Pedro was waiting for me.


    Wee back!State: Excited / Happy / Having Fun / Anticipation for Giving Something


    Anticipation for giving something?


    Giving something? What was he nning on giving, and why did he feel anticipation when he was giving it? Was he the type of person who liked being generous?


    Vs taking care of a personal matter in another dungeon right now. As for me, Ive been waiting here a long time to give you this.


    He came up to me and handed me something without notice.


    Why are you giving me this?


    That item was a bow, and not just any bow, but the starting weapon of the Divine Archer, Hyun Junghwa.

 Chapter 190

    Chapter 190


    There was a group of yers who wereparable in ability to the 8 Heroes, but hadnt shed with the Demon King. In other words, they had silently walked their own paths, and their own paths only.


    Particrly famous among them was the Divine Archer Hyun Junghwa.


    The item she used in her early days.


    There was an item in my hand, an item that had been given to me by the future Master, Pedro.


    I need to earn my keep too, right? Since Im a man.


    ...


    A mans gotta earn their keep. Thats the way of a manly man.


    [Sylphids Wing]


    A weapon made by Sylphids, wind spirits, to honor the soul of a departed Sylphid. It is said that a part of the fallen Sylphids soul is imbued within.


    Grade: Unique


    Attack power: 34-55


    Effects:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


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    Consecutive Shots</li></ol>


    Hyun Junghwa revealed that this was the bow she acquired in her early days. She said that Sylphids Wing was the item that made me who I am today.


    If I had to guess, there were only a few items of this level at this point in time worldwide. This bow was extremely precious. Its attack power alone was a whopping 34-55.


    The transcendent artifact Isabels attack power was 72-84. Transcendent items were things of legend, to the point that I hadnt even known for sure that they had existed. It was already an incredible feat for an item to reach half a transcendent artifacts attack power.


    Why are you giving this to me?


    Because Im a man.


    Pedro took out the Tomb-Pilfering Shovel.


    Its only natural to give you that much after receiving such an amazing item. A trade between men should be fair, no?


    I grinned. Are you sure its fair? I dont think the two are quiteparable.


    This was an unexpected trade, but since Pedro was giving, I figured that I might as well take everything he had to offer.


    Ah, of course. I acknowledge that. Its true the Tomb-Pilfering Shovel is a far better item.


    ...


    But I would imagine Sylphids Wing wont fall behind in terms of usefulness.


    He was right about that. The Tomb-Pilfering Shovel was an item only thieves could use. Strictly speaking, I could use Sylphids Wing with no restrictions despite not having the archer ss.


    I <em>am </em>thankful, yes.


    The item to which the Divine Archer attributed herter sess hadnded in my hands. This was an extremely good thing for me. I was also nning on coaxing the Tome of the Divine Archer Physique from the Night of Shooting Stars.


    Im grateful for the thought, but


    I returned the bow. Of course, it was just an act. I didnt intend on giving back this item.


    ...Huh?


    I dont think it matches the Tomb-Pilfering Shovel. Usefulness cant make up for the gap between a legendary and unique grade. Especially if its an item that is useful to you like the Tomb-Pilfering Shovel.


    ...


    Pedro took Sylphids Wing. He closed his eyes in thought.


    What you say is true, Hyukjin. He returned Sylphids Wing to me. But its hard for me to give you an item better than this one for the time being.


    Excellent. This was what I had wanted to see.


    Let me bnce the scales at ater time. You are the one who called me and gave me an item out of nowhere, so this much should do for an initial trade, right?


    The Merchant of Venice answered in my stead.


    [The Merchant of Venice nods at your negotiation acumen.]


    [The Merchant of Venice gifts you a Wind Element Enhancement Crystal.]


    Yep, getting free extras on top was better than just receiving something. In return, I gave the crossdressing Pedro the words he wanted to hear, free of charge.


    Manly men really are built different.


    Pedro straightened his shoulders, looking very happy.


    * * *


    * * *


    With V doing some ying of his own, I went to Piazza Navona with Pedro. I saw the fountain.


    Hes here again.


    It seemed he hadnt learnt his lesson yet. Likest time, Beratto had rigged his authority over the gate and was collecting tolls. Many people now knew that the fountain was a gate connected to the Forest of Dwarfs.


    Though there probably arent many whoe back from that ce alive.


    Even so, people wanted to go inside the gate. They were driven by their belief that there had to be treasures within.


    If there were any treasures, the dwarfs would have already collected them.


    For ordinary yers, nothing good woulde of going into the Forest of Dwarfs. As time went on, the yers would realize that as well.


    I stopped.


    Hyukjin? Pedro asked in puzzlement.


    I cant help but think its going to be a pain if we go there, I said, pointing my chin at Beratto. A direct sh was also an option, but a fun thought urred to me. Its the perfect time to test my new item.


    I was curious about whether I could break the authority nted on that gate with the bow I had just gotten.


    You mean Sylphids Wing?


    Yes.


    I took out the bow. People were used to yers now. No one paid much attention to me even after I pulled out a bow in the middle of the square. Such things were everyday urrences.


    I have ten arrows.


    Unless you had an artifact like the ckfire Bow, arrows were inevitably a consumable resource. I had to use them sparingly.


    Is the Night of Shooting Stars watching?


    It would be great if he was, and it couldnt be helped if he wasnt. I drew the bowstring.


    Y-Youre going to shoot it here? Y-Youre not going to kill Beratto, are you?


    Of course not.


    I had no intention of killing Beratto. I focused.


    Ill break it.


    The authority cast by Beratto.


    I released the bowstring. That moment, a wisp of wind rose from Sylphids Wing. It kind of felt like Sylphids Wings innate energy was resonating with mine.


    One more time.


    I drew and fired once more.


    And again.


    I fired again. With every shot, I felt the intangible force behind each arrow grow.


    One more time.


    I drew the bowstring.


    Wh-Which one of you crazy bastards was it?! Beratto roared. The next moment, he fell to the ground with a strangled shriek, terrified. Hiik!


    That was because an arrow whistled over his head. It thudded into the fountain and melted into nothingness.


    Arrows shot by Sylphids Wing were 1-time use. They couldnt be picked up and reused because they melted and disappeared like that.


    Im sure of it now.


    Sylphids Wing wasnt just a unique-grade item. Like Isabel, there was some kind of ability sealed in Sylphids Wing. I could feel it, and Hyun Junghwa must have known it as well.


    What should I call this?


    Inherently attuned?


    The feeling that our wavelengths are perfectly matched.


    For a moment there, I felt like Imuned with Sylphids Wing.[You have sessfullymuned with Sylphids Wing.]


    I instantly realized. Sylphids Wing was a weapon created to honor a fallen Sylphid. It was imbued with a soul.It is said that a part of the fallen Sylphids soul is imbued within.


    That soul appeared to be extremelypatible with me.


    [A hidden quest rted to Sylphids Wing has been unlocked.]


    [You have received the quest Find the Complete Sylphids Wings.]


    I opened the quest window.


    [Find the Complete Sylphids Wings]


    The current Sylphids Wing is not in itsplete state. Find the Complete Sylphids Wings and make what is iplete,plete.


    *Complete Sylphids Wings is slumbering in the Wind Temple.


    *Blessing of the Wind Temple is required to find the Complete Sylphids Wings.


    I was struck speechless.


    The Wind Temple?


    It was a familiar name. I remembered exactly what Jo Sunghyun said after we cleared and left the Hill of Blowing Wind.


    <em>There was a notice saying the Clear Crystals energy melted into my body, and if I satisfied a certain condition, I could activate the Wind Temple.</em>


    Since then, Sunghyun never said anything about the Wind Temple to me again. It wasnt because he was hiding it from me, but that he hadnt been able to find any clues about the Wind Temple. He was also busy keeping up with my agenda.


    And*Blessing of the Wind Temple is required to find the Complete Sylphids Wings.


    This condition was already fulfilled. In the Hill of Blowing Wind, I received the Blessing of the Wind Temple and fulfilled a hidden piece.


    [Granting the Blessing of the Wind Temple.]


    [Confirming that you have 6 Blessings.]


    [The Hidden Piece 6 Blessings has been fulfilled.]


    From this, I acquired the Tome of the Divine Wind Physique and gave it to Sunghyun.


    I had the Blessing of the Wind Temple, and thanks to that, I fulfilled a hidden condition of Sylphids Wing.


    It wasnt intentional, but in any case, the path ahead was unfurling very smoothly.


    It might even be that Sunghyun has a clue about the Complete Sylphids Wings.


    Pedros voice pulled me away from my contemtion.


    Hyukjin?


    Ah. Yes. Sorry, I was thinking about something else for a moment.


    No, its just that Beratto ising your way.


    From the way he was storming towards me, he seemed to be mad. Apparently, someone saw me shooting my bow and ratted me out.


    As one would expect.


    I already knew he wasing.


    Did you know this would happen?


    Of course.


    If I had wanted to avoid a confrontation, I would have used Cognitive Dissonance.


    Youre in for it now, huffed Beratto. You seem to have some kind of special ability, but He spat on the ground. No matter how skilled a monkey is, its still a monkey.


    After saying that, he nced around. It was obvious he was checking to see if Vera was nearby.


    Ive always wanted to erase yellow monkeys like you from this world, you see.


    ...


    How can an archer sit on his thumbs and allow an opponent to get this close?


    ...


    What? You scared?


    ...


    Ill do a monkey like you the honor of killing you right here.


    Beratto smiled wide. To that, I answered, Who said I was an archer?


    * * *


    Im sorry. I wont do it ever again. Im really sorry. Im really, really sorry.


    Beratto desperately rubbed his palms.


    (He dares to call my husband a monkey? What are you doing? Slice his throat open.)


    Isabel was so blindsided by rage that she forgot to feel humiliated by my use of her innate ability Beat em, Beat em, Beat em Harder.


    (What are you doing? What good woulde of leaving such trash alive?!)


    Isabels de trembled. She was well and truly mad.


    Well, small fry like Beratto is just cute.


    Blocking a gate and extracting tolls was just childish petnce. The racist crap he said about me being a monkey or whatever was irritating, but it wasnt something to kill over.


    Beratto was on his knees, rubbing his palms. I said quietly to him, Im sure youve earned a lot of Coins through illegal means. Am I correct?


    Y-You are. I havemitted a sin worthy of death.


    No, its not worthy of death.


    There was an item in my handsthe Trantion Marble Id gotten from Senia. This thing was really pricey.


    You have to make up for this things price. Since I had to converse with you.


    In truth, my fists had done more of the talking. After conversing with my fists a few times, he became this docile. Conversation was such a wonderful thing, wasnt it?


    Its not to the point of death, so I wont kill you. However.


    I had to get my moneys worth, too. The amount I spent using the Teleport Gateway was no small sum.


    Cough it up. The price for your life.


    Th-That


    If you dont want to, then go ahead and die.


    I brought the tip of Isabels de to Berattos neck.


    Wait!


    Beratto gave me 10,000 Coins. Goodness, this guy had really collected a lot. It was obvious he hadnt just camped this gate, but others.


    If I shake you and more Coinse out, itll be ten hits per Coin.


    I-I really dont have anymore. This is my entire lifes savings.


    That so?


    I got up. This much was sufficient.


    By the way, I got 20,000 Coins from him. The poor sop didnt know, but I had a theft genius with me. Our little theft genius brought exactly 10,211 Coins to me, not leaving a single Coin behind.


    So I decided to be nice. I earned 20,000 Coins with a short skirmish, so it was a winning deal for me.


    Pedro and I ported to the Forest of Dwarfs. We arrived at the Winter Castle to find Elder Bufafa waiting for us. He said he had sensed the Millenium Lava in advance, or something like that.


    (Ah, Im sleepy. Hubby. Im gonna go back to sleep. Know youre dead if you cheat on me while Im)


    Was it hubby, or husband? Or was it bride? Pick one and stick to it, please. I was about to expel an unconscious sigh when Elder Bufafa approached me.


    He walked faster and faster, bing so fast it was almost threatening. Then, he fell into a kowtow.


    Esteemed one.


    An individual from an exceedingly prideful race, the dwarfs, knelt at my feet. All of a sudden? What was it this time? I didnt think bringing the Millenium Lava was such a big deal. It wasnt because of the Millenium Lava.


    The gatekeeper twins were shocked.


    El-Elder!


    Elder Bufafa!


    Their reactions mirrored mine. I was shocked, too. I bent to lift Elder Bufafa to his feet.


    Why are you doing this all of a sudden?


    Elder Bufafa got up unsteadily. And then, he said this:


    I did not know I would be honored by Lady s presence here.

 Chapter 191

    Chapter 191


    Bufafa said gratefully, I did not know I would be granted an audience with Lady  here.


    Lady ? I couldnt hear what he said. My brain couldntprehend it. Just like with the Demon King, it was System interference. The current me wasnt being allowed ess to this information.


    Rather than showing I dont know


    Pretending I knew who he was talking about might result in a far more favorable oue. It was more favorable for me to be the one creating and directing the situation.


    Is that so?


    When I first met Bufafa.


    After I gave him the Ten-Thousand Year Old Cold Iron.


    And the current me.


    What was the difference? That change was responsible for Bufafas dramatic reaction.


    The difference is


    There was one striking difference.


    The now-sleeping Isabel.


    The only difference was whether Isabels ego was awake or not. Isabel was a transcendent artifact, so it was possible she would appear to a dwarf elder as some kind of noble being.


    I conspicuously stroked Isabel, examining Bufafas expression.


    Yes.


    Elder Bufafas brows flinched, and his long beard trembled a little.


    Im right.


    I couldntprehend , but I figured it out. My heart settled back into ce. There was no doubt. The  Elder Bufafa was saying was Isabel.


    She is asleep at the moment. With my lowly ability, I am unable to draw out her full power.


    I see. No wonder I failed to recognize her earlier.


    Elder Bufafas dark red beard suddenly changed to a fist shape, then mmed onto his own swollen eyes. His lively beard was truly fascinating.


    These two useless eyes were unable to recognize the noble one. Even digging them out would not atone.


    Its because my ability iscking.


    But who was Isabel, to make Elder Bufafa fall to his knees before her? This sword was definitely no ordinary artifact.


    How do you know about Isabel?


    It is because I am a dwarf of Sword Forest origin.


    ...


    Sword Forest.


    That was the name of the field that appeared in Isabels item description.


    That was an existing field?


    It didnt seem to be a field that only existed in name to flesh out a setting.


    The twin dwarfs watching from the side straightened proudly. The dwarfs originally from the Sword Forest are the pride of our people.


    Because they carry noble cksmith blood.


    Elder Bufafa shook his head. It was only by luck that I was born in the Sword Forest and ended uping here.


    They were essentially the nobles of the dwarf world. If he was from the Sword Forest, did he know a way to go back to the Sword Forest? I had a feeling I could unlock more of Isabels abilities if I went there.


    Do you know how to get to the Sword Forest?


    Elder Bufafa shook his head. I apologize. I know where the exit of the Sword Forest is, but not the entrance. No dwarf of Sword Forest has ever returned to the Sword Forest.


    Thanks to Isabel, I gained a piece of information. The Sword Forest was an existing field. And I had a feeling something rted to the Sword Forest would happen.


    In any case, we were here to turn the Old Crown into the Crown.


    I leave it in your capable hands, I said.


    Bufafa took the Old Crown, but his full attention was still focused on the sword at my waist. Ever since he realized my sword was the Isabel he knew, hed been in a daze. His beard was burning and drool was dripping from his mouth, but didnt seem to realize it at all. He was still out of it.


    He looks like hed cut out his liver for me if I asked.


    I could hardly let this good opportunity slip away.


    Much of Isabels strength is currently sealed.


    I-I see.


    That was another piece of information. In her current statethe state where Isabel was in my possessioneven the sharp-eyed Bufafa could not precisely ascertain Isabels status.


    Do you, by any chance, know any way to unlock this forcibly sealed strength, if only partially?


    ...


    I say this because its a great shame that I cannot bring out the true worth of a transcendent artifact.


    To be more precise, it was because I wanted an even better item.


    I think the same, said Elder Bufafa after thinking intently. I will need to take a close look to know for sure, but there <em>is </em>a way to restore her to some degree.


    What is that method?


    It requires two materials, as well as a dwarf from the Sword Forest.


    The dwarf from the Sword Forest was right in front of me. That one was settled.


    What are the two materials?


    One is [cksmiths Red Jewel], and the other is [Magicians Red Jewel].


    I was struck momentarily speechless.


    cksmiths Red Jewel?


    I already had it. That was the item given to me by the iprehensible Demon King.


    <em>Ill wait for you at Endless Sky.</em>


    With those words, he gave me this cksmiths Red Jewel as a present.


    Is this also his doing?


    Was it his doing, or was it a coincidence? It was probably intentional.


    In that case, maybe at Endless Sky?


    If this was the Demon Kings doing, maybe I could acquire the Magicians Red Jewel at this ce called Endless Sky?


    I am already in possession of a cksmiths Red Jewel.


    ...I see.


    And I think I will be able to procure the Magicians Red Jewel not long from now.


    I gave Endless Sky a mention, just in case he knew.


    Because theres a high chance it can be found in a ce called Endless Sky.


    ...


    From the looks of it, Elder Bufafa didnt seem to know much about a ce called Endless Sky. Okay, that was enough. I entrusted the Old Crown to Bufafa.


    Bufafa yanked Pedro along by the ear.


    Rascal! Follow me!


    A-A manly man should not be dragged by the ear!


    I oughta rip those lips straight off your mug. Stop talking back and follow! You need toe wait on me.


    While getting dragged away, Pedro begged me, Please forget what you just saw. Even a manly man has his weaknYOWCH! It hurts, Teacher!


    * * *


    * * *


    Three hours passed since Elder Bufafa began the restoration work. For three hours, I felt intense heat and heard a continuous stream of crisp hammering.


    During that time, I was able to rest infort at Elder Bufafas house. Bufafa came up to me, wiping his sweat.


    The main work is all done. Now we just have to let it cool.


    Did it go well?


    It is an object brought by the esteemed one, so I simply did my best.


    He spoke humbly, but judging by his expression, it was a great sess. It wasnt surprisingthe crown was a quest item from the beginner period of ying, after all. For a race like the dwarfs, it was probably childs y.


    Would it be alright if I could examine Lady  a little?


    Isabel is my bride.


    ...


    Im sure there are no men out there who would carelessly pass their bride to another.


    ...


    Bufafa looked gutted. His eyes whirled around as he racked his brain. I threw him a lifeline.


    However, if that bride is sick, its only right to go see a doctor, is it not?


    Bufafa sped my hands in his. He appeared rather touched by my words.


    I humbly ask of you to please allow me to closely examine Lady . I will not forget this kindness.


    Not bad, not bad at all. It was great that I could put him in my debt when he was the one strengthening my weapon for me. It was like killing two birds with one stone, getting my cake and eating it too.


    I breathed a little sigh. Since you desire it so much, Elder Bufafa, in consideration of the many years of cooperation ahead of us, I will allow you to take a brief look at Isabel.


    Elder Bufafas beard formed a [!], then jumped up and down three times out of extreme joy. He put on a white glove that glowed with a blue light and changed into pure-white clothes. It almost looked like a priests robe. He wrapped his beard with mesh, like when women bundled their hair into a bun and then covered it with a hair. Because he had so much beard, it looked like a giant egg was hanging under his chin.


    It was a little funny-looking, but


    Hes serious and reverent.


    Bufafa took Isabel from me with a truly reverent appearance. Very carefully, with both hands. After examining her for a long time with just his eyes, he began to ever so gently touch Isabels de here and there.


    His eyes rolled up, showing only whites, and he began to convulse like he was possessed.


    That looks like


    It looked simr to when the Courageous Lion King descended on Kim Taechun. But it wasnt a descent. The energy I was feeling was far more familiar to me than descent.


    This was the incantation of a dwarf.


    A dwarf is reciting an incantation.


    I focused. What kind of incantation woulde from a craftsman among craftsmen, a master among masters? He was even a dwarf of Sword Forest origin.


    --- --- --- ----.


    --- --- ---.


    --- --- --- ----.


    --- ---.


    But to my dismay, I wasnt able to understand a single word. After the incantation was recited, Elder Bufafas eyes opened wide.


    This stigma is He passed Isabel back to me. The esteemed one is engraved with a stigma so deep that I cannot fathom its depths with my skill.


    Stigma. In other words, Achievement. That could be engraved on an item, not a yer?


    If I were to summarize this stigma with my cursory expertise


    ...


    Bufafa gulped hard.


    Heavenly talent, ursed.


    Hm?


    Heavenly talent is cursed?


    That was a stigma? It was a little odd. Bute to think of it, it did sort of match Isabels personality. There was an ability she rejected her talent for and personally sealed, Beat em, Beat em, Beat em Harder.


    Bufafa continued to say strange things.


    The day the stigma ispletely activated, Lady s true body shall descend.


    I didnt know exactly what he was talking about, but


    Endless Sky.


    There were no two ways around it. I had to go there. Someday, I would have to meet the Demon King once more.


    Oh, before I forget. I have a request, Elder.


    * * *


    The Old Crown was restored into the Crown. Pedro and I left the Winter Castle with a warm goodbye from Elder Bufafa, and I headed to the Tutorial Building to return to Korea using the Teleport Gateway.


    Its a huge drain on my Coins.


    But I didnt regret it. I was producing content that no one else in this world could make. And I was pulling off sessful acts in the Italian, Korean, and even the Japanese server. This was literally an investment period. When this investment period was over, I would be able to rake in a far greater sum of Coins and sponsorships.


    Pedro held out his hand.


    I need to return to Japan.


    He always had to add one unnecessary thing.


    A manly mans handshake must be passionate.


    I sped his hand, and he shook it vigorously up and down. He was squeezing with all his might, but unfortunately for him, it didnt hurt at all. Pedro was biologically a woman, and I didnt understand why he was so fixated on being a manly man. His manly man obsession was made awkward by the fact that he wasnt a manly man at all.


    Pedro returned to Japan, while I went to the Gran Seoul Dungeon. I met V in the vicinity of the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    We need to ask Jackson to find the entrance.


    Yup.


    Jackson knew where the entrance was. The Gran Seouls hidden field was set so only V and I could clear it.


    But I couldnt get in contact with Jackson. He was probably dungeon clearing or doing some kind of scenario. Just then, I got a call from Song Kiyeol.


    Mr. Kim Hyukjin. As you predicted, Junghye made a move.


    I knew that already. She was upying the entrance and sending in her cherry-picked crew. Because I asked them to buy time for me, Taeguk Shield was temporarily backing off and observing.


    But Kiyeol reiterating it meant something had happened.


    But Junghye has withdrawn her men.


    Howe?


    It seemed the Gran Seoul Dungeons entrance was taken over by someone else.


    About that


    Just then, I glimpsed the news being transmitted on the massive LED disy in downtown Seoul.


    Is it because of him?


    The Gran Seoul Dungeon entrance was being upied by a Chinese yer. It was a very familiar face.


    Is it because of Lao Yu? I asked.


    The Chinese tamer, the virtuoso of the tamer world who was the first to show the world how to tame Big ck Dogs, was carrying out a siege in Korea.


    Another event that hadnt happened in the past was taking ce.

 Chapter 192

    Chapter 192


    Lao Yu. The first person to tame a Big ck Dog.


    The yer who came up with the safest way to clear the U-Plex Dungeon.


    And the taming fanatic who wouldter be respected by the tamers of the whole world as the Taming Master.


    Do you know Lao Yu?


    I do. Hes a rising star in Chinas taming scene, after all.


    Word gets around to you quickly.


    Information gathering is the lifeblood of a sovereign.


    In any case, Lao Yu was currently upying the Gran Seoul Dungeons entrance and was refusing to budge. Taeguk Shield and the other Korean Rankers were just letting him be for the time being.


    A few yers resisted and fought with him, but


    They werent killed, were they?


    If they were killed, that would change things.


    No, they werent.


    As I thought, he didnt kill them. Lao Yu might be crazy about taming, but he wasnt crazy about killing.


    They were all seriously wounded.


    Serious wounds can be healed in no time with potions.


    Lao Yu hadntmitted murder. That meant his personality, at least, was unchanged from the Lao Yu I remembered.


    I am purposefully buying time, as you asked me to do.


    I imagine Miss Song Junghye was caught in the middle and was absolutely crushed.


    ...


    I could feel an older brothers concern for his sister on the other side of the line. After gaining a little sister myself, I could sympathize with his feelings. The only difference was, my sister was Sunhwa and his was Song Junghye.


    I already knew what Kiyeol wanted to say.


    In any case, you wont be able to drag things out for much longer. Taeguk Shield has its prestige to maintain as Koreas representative guild.


    In addition, Taeguk Shield wasnt the only guild in Korea. They might be rookies now, but in the future, countless yers and guilds would rise to fame. Koreas yers were fully capable of standing on the world stage given that the country developed normally, that is.


    Yes, exactly. I think public sentiment will worsen if we dont do anything.


    And Taeguk Shield could not afford to neglect public sentiment, since it was essentially a subsidiary of Sungshin.


    The issue will take care of itself. Theres no need to overexert yourself.


    Itll take care of itself?


    No matter how amazing Lao Yu is, he cant face all of Koreas yers.


    And most likely


    Isnt there a guild called Wings among the groups who wanted to enter the Gran Seoul Dungeon?


    Ah. There is. My understanding of them is that theyre a guild that has been distinguishing itself here and there as ofte.


    The issue will be quickly resolved if Wings takes a key role.


    Wings yed very defensively. They were frustrating to watch, but they advanced as safely as possible, without sacrificing anyone. Of course, such a ystyle came with its limits, but on the other hand, it had definite advantages.


    Also, is the reason you called me possibly because Lao Yu is looking for me?


    * * *


    I will have people look into Lao Yus background.


    With that, Song Kiyeol lowered his phone. He looked speechlessly out his window for a long time.


    From floor 63 of the yer Tower, the apartment buildings in the vicinity looked like childrens blocks. This ce gave you the impression that you were looking down on the world, like you were a king. But Song Kiyeol was unable to feel even an inkling of such empowerment.


    Kim Hyukjin sees everything without needing to tower from above.


    Goosebumps rose over his arms. Just what was that person?


    He knew in advance that Junghye would make a scene there And can it be that he also knew Lao Yu would show up?


    No, Kim Hyukjin hadnt known. He only assumed and predicted everything afterwards.


    A truly terrifying precognitive ability.


    He seemed to be a Precognitive Dreamer one level higher than Taeguk Shields Ham Sohyun. He was actually a regressor, not a Precognitive Dreamer, but that was Song Kiyeols assessment.


    And even the fact that Lao Yu is looking for him.


    Lao Yu was shouting, Bring me the first person who tamed a Big ck Dog! and refusing to budge right now. The first person to tame a Big ck Dog was naturally Kim Hyukjin.


    Then how will Kim Hyukjin act?


    Kiyeol didnt know exactly, but he suspected Hyukjin would meet Lao Yu. He didnt know how, but he was sure that method would end up being the method desired by Kim Hyukjin.


    Kiyeol breathed a sigh of relief as he looked out the window.


    Im so d were on the same side.


    He was relieved. What if Kim Hyukjin was his enemy? Kiyeol probably wouldnt have been able to nurture Taeguk Shield to this point, and he might have incurred his grandfathers ire long ago.


    Song Kiyeol spoke.


    Eunho. Go and find out how and where Kim Hyukjin and Lao Yu make contact. If you get caught, dont lie. Just be honest.


    In other words, do your very best not to get caught. However, Kiyeol didnt put his hopes on not getting caught. He was curious. He wanted to know how much tailing Kim Hyukjin would permit.


    Ive already kind of gotten permission.


    <em>I will have people look into Lao Yus background.</em>


    Kim Hyukjin had agreed to that. Kim Hyukjin would meet Lao Yu, and if that happened, the person Kiyeol sent to look into Lao Yu would also end up meeting Hyukjin.


    Im sure Kim Hyukjin knows that as well.


    It was unlikely that he <em>wouldnt</em> know. Kim Hyukjin was smarter than him, after all. But Kiyeol needed to find out how much Hyukjin would allow, how much information he would share.


    Because this isnt a subordinate rtionship. Were business partners.


    He acknowledged that Kim Hyukjin was amazing. He also knew that Kim Hyukjin was more capable than him. He wasnt so narrow-minded that he couldnt acknowledge that.


    That being said, there was no need for their rtionship to be one of master and subordinate. They could gain what there was to gain from one another and refuse what there was to refuse. That was what a business rtionship was.


    Grandfather probably wants that as well.


    It could be that even Kim Hyukjin wanted that.


    For some reason, he had the feeling that his grandfather and Kim Hyukjin were somehow alike.


    * * *


    * * *


    The Inte went into a frenzy.


    What the hell are the Korean Rankers doing?


    Whys Taeguk Shield just sitting around?


    Not just on the Inte, but whenever people met up in the real world as well, Lao Yu was bound toe up in conversation.


    Are we getting overpowered by China?


    Its only one person! How is it that we cant do anything?


    But the situation was turned around with the appearance of a guild called Wings. The Guildmaster of Wings, a young boy named Kim Donghyun, said the following.


    Theres no need for Koreas top guild to step forward because of a yer of Lao Yus level.


    Twelve irond knights, plus the simrly armed Guildmaster Kim Donghyun and the magician-garbed Kim Ahyun.


    I know he is ranked first among Chinas tamers.


    Of course, it wasnt an official ranking. It was just made up by people and based on their guesses. In any case, no one denied that Lao Yu was one of the most famous tamers in China.


    But that is just in China. Korea is, of course, more outstanding.


    He went and said it straight out.


    Hes hardly a suitable opponent for Taeguk Shield.


    Kim Donghyuk made a deration of war.


    In about three hours, when my teammates get here from clearing other gates, we will drive out Lao Yu from the Gran Seoul.


    Those words werent spoken in vain. Wings chasing off Lao Yu was broadcasted live. Little by little, slowly, Wings bore down on Lao Yus Yaoguai Army, and eventually, Wings secured a victory over Lao Yu.


    TN: Yaoguai means strange monster/demon in Chinese.


    Lao Yu was stabbed in the abdomen by one of the knights spears. Covered in blood, he surrendered and left the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    How strong can a Chinese yer be?


    He was, like,pletely overpowered, wasnt he?


    Wings didnt get a single injury.


    But Wings has fourteen people and Lao Yu is one person. He might be a tamer, but still.


    Tamers are capable of being a one-man army. Anyway, Lao Yu had his army and was already in position, but he waspletely disarmed by Wings.


    With this event, Wings rose to fame for the first time. Their especially stalwart defense already had some people calling them Steel Bulwark, and their feat soothed the wounded pride of the Korean people.


    The culprit of all this, on the other hand, didnt feel much of a dented pride. Laying on his hotel bed, Lao Yu examined the note in his hand.


    <em>I will pay you a visit. Big ck Dog Tamer.</em>


    Kim Donghyun had passed him the note during their battle. Apparently, Kim Donghyun and the Big ck Dog tamer were acquainted.


    Hes probably someone who doesnt like being in the publics eye.


    Just what kind of person was he? How did he seed in taming Big ck Dogs so early on? Lao Yu was so very curious. About an hourter, he heard knocking on his door.


    Lao Yu opened the door to find a man standing outside his room. He asked abruptly, Are you Kim Hyukjin?


    Lao Yu knew Kim Hyukjins name.


    * * *


    Holding the Trantion Marble Id gotten from Senia, I rapped on the door to Lao Yus hotel room. Having gotten my note, Lao Yu opened the door.


    A short crop cut. Handsome facial features. A leather jacket and ripped jeans. The face of a typical handsome Chinese man.


    Hes like the Lao Yu I remember.


    And the Lao Yu in front of me knew my name.


    The reason why he knew my name was simple.


    The Shepherd Boy must have told him.


    How much the Shepherd Boy despised me was evident from the way he marked me by name. He might have even given Lao Yu a quest to kill me.


    I responded with an equally straightforward question.


    Did the Shepherd Boy give you a quest to kill me?


    ...


    Lao Yu flinched.


    The Shepherd Boy isnt the kind of Guardian who would give such a quest.


    I took advantage of Lao Yus flinch to activate Eye of Perception. This was a trick Id learned from meeting the manly man philiac, Pedro. It was far more effective to create an emotional opening and <em>then</em> use Eye of Perception rather than just trying to brute force it.


    [yer]


    Name: Lao Yu


    Age: 23


    Level: 35


    ss: Beginner Tamer


    Guardian: -


    Innate ability: [Wanna Be Friends?]


    State: Slightly Agitated / Guarded / Hostile


    Disposition: Aggressive / Curious


    Summary:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Taming Fanatic</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Tamer who Needs his First Title</li></ol><ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    The disposition/state/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    Notable was the fact I couldnt see his Guardian. The best thing to do at a time like this was to ask.


    Have you made a contract with the Shepherd Boy?


    No. I havent made a contract yet.


    Even though he was level 35? It wouldve been impossible to reach level 35 without the help of a Guardian in China.


    No.


    There was more to the world than I knew.


    But its true that you got a quest from him.


    Yes. Though I didnt expect you to know that.


    I have a little history with the Shepherd Boy.


    It wasnt a rosy one, though.


    Let me guess. The quest is to find me, correct? Thats why you came to Korea all of a sudden.


    Thats right.


    Was that really the right move?


    Youre standing in front of me, so it worked out, didnt it?


    This person was a taming fanatic. The fact that he put his taming on hold toe all this way meant the Shepherd Boy was quite big on his radar, too.


    The Shepherd Boy gives quests in steps.


    He was a dirty bastard who concealed what he wanted and stooped to whatever means necessary to aplish his objectives. Thats how he was when he was trying to get the Red Eyes, and thats how he would act with Lao Yu.


    Then what kind of quest do you think hell give you now?


    What do you mean?


    If you were to receive a quest to kill me, do you intend on carrying it out?


    I was curious. What was Lao Yu thinking?


    Are you crazy? Kill someone? Maybe in a PVP zone, but in real life?


    I smiled. This was good.


    Itll be awkward for the Shepherd Boy to give the quest now.


    It would be a blow to the Shepherd Boys dignity to force a quest now, when the yer was jumping up and down saying, Why would I kill someone? A part of me was relieved that Lao Yu was a decent person.


    Instead of a quest to kill me


    What would his very first move be?


    If it were me.


    If I were the Shepherd Boy, I would want to take back the title he had given me with a legitimate method. He would use Lao Yu to carry out that method.


    A PVP with my Thousand Dog Master title as a wager would be most ideal.


    The Shepherd Boy knew a measure of my abilities, so he would greatly strengthen Lao Yu. To my amusement, I could see straight through the Shepherd Boys ns and thoughts. This stage may have been set by the Shepherd Boy, but the person who was directing it was me.


    Lets give it a try then, shall we?


    This wasnt a simple fight with Lao Yu. It was a war against the Shepherd Boy.


    Can I ask you one question? I asked.


    Id been really curious about this the whole time. Lao Yu nodded.


    Why did you go to the U-Plex Dungeon?

 Chapter 193: 1st Advancement (2)

    Chapter 193: 1st Advancement (2)


    Lao Yu was the person who revealed the U-Plex Dungeon clear method. He rendered a particrly brilliant contribution to the 1st floor strat. But there was something a little strange about this.


    China has dungeons for days.


    Why did he bother to fly all the way to Korea toe up with a strategy for the U-Plex Dungeon? He wasnt even an explorer, but a tamer. Why did he go so far away to tame? Might there have been a reason why that was necessary?


    No need to limit my thinking to the clue that is the 1st floor.


    I decided to look a little further, to broaden my vision a little. I had to use a broader scope to read the overall situation. Only then could I set myself apart from the others.


    Why did you go to the U-Plex Dungeon?


    When did I say I went there?


    I heard you were looking for the first person who tamed Big ck Dogs. Thats the only ce in Korea where Big ck Dogs show up.


    ...


    Lao Yu flinched. With this, I was certain. This guy was terrible at arguing. No one said a good tamer had to be good at arguing.


    Whats it to you? Am I not allowed to go to the U-Plex Dungeon?


    Why are you flustered?


    Im not flustered.


    Why did a famous Chinese tamer like yourself go all the way to Koreas U-Plex Dungeon? Im sure there are tons of monsters other than Big ck Dogs to tame in China.


    Did hee here just because of Big ck Dogs? No. Definitely not.


    U-Plex Dungeon, 4th floor.


    There, I acquired the transcendent item Isabel, a sword bearing the same name as the Queen of the Sword Forest.


    I also heard about the Sword Forest in the Winter Castle.


    The Great Explorer, Jackson.


    The Fight King, V.


    The Master, Pedro.


    The Gran Seoul Dungeon that was directly or indirectly connected to them.


    And.


    Elder Bufafa, who was rted to Pedro, was originally from the Sword Forest. I got the transcendent item with the same name as the Queen of the Sword Forest from Noah, the NPC on the 4th floor of the U-Plex Dungeon the dungeon that was originally supposed to be cleared by the Taming Master, Lao Yu.


    Were all these things really coincidence?


    No.


    It wasnt a coincidence. These pieces that seemedpletely unrted to one another were connected by the central puzzle piece that was me.


    Do you know about the Sword Forest? I probed.


    ...


    Another flinch. With this, I was even more certain. Lao Yu was the type of person who shouldnt get into arguments, the type who got more and more entangled with every word. The words poker face didnt exist in his dictionary.


    Theres no reason to be surprised. I, too, am among the people who have been searching a long time for the Sword Forest.


    Eh?


    In truth, I had only started searching for the Sword Forest recently. It was only through Elder Bufafa that I found out it was an existing field. Technically, I hadnt even started looking for it.


    Lao Yu jumped right into my snare.


    You as well?


    Yes. My ss is connected to the Sword Forest.


    That wasnt aplete lieI was married to a sword with the same name as the Queen of the Sword Forest. It was strange to say I was married, but that was what the item description said.


    Lao Yu was searching for the Sword Forest


    It was apletely unknown fact. So why? Why was a tamer looking for the Sword Forest? Did Lao Yu get Isabel in the past? Just what in the world was the Sword Forest?


    But just then, a PVP field went up around us. I guessed Lao Yus invisible Intermediate Administrator issued the field.


    Looks like the Shepherd Boy instigated it.


    That was very likely. This PVP was triggered by the Shepherd Boy. Either the Shepherd Boy no longer wanted to hear the conversation between Lao Yu and me, or he didnt want the conversation to progress any further. It could be that the Shepherd Boy wanted to forcibly end this conversation.


    [A PVP zone has been dered.]


    [The PVP zones settings will be announced.]


    The Shepherd Boy was capable of adding a new setting or two. Regardless of his shit temper, his prowess as a Guardian was the real deal.


    [Upon defeat, the Thousand Dog Master title will be reimed.]


    This was something Id been feeling for a while, but a more apt name for him was Gangster Boy, not Shepherd Boy. He cherry picked the settings favorable for him, and him only. Unfortunately for him, I wasnt as foolish as Lao Yu, and I wasnt unconditionally submissive to the Guardians.


    I think well need to do a PVP for now, Lao Yu said. Allow me to introduce myself again formally. I am a tamer, a ss that fights using tamed monsters.


    The Shepherd Boy set up a safe zone in consideration of Lao Yu, a tamer.


    [Safe Zone Remaining Duration3:00]


    Three minutes of safe zone were given, during which Lao Yu could leisurely summon his monsters and n a strategy.


    I do not oppose my title being taken away if I lose, I began.


    That was a matter of course. What could I possibly do about a rule determined by a Guardian? I was merely a beginner yer. There wasnt anything I could do about the rule itself.


    I am in full agreement with the prescribed setting.


    However


    If such a setting is forcibly registered, then it will only be bnced if there is an opposite setting.


    I wasnt just saying this to the Shepherd Boy. These words were for the innumerable other Guardians who were watching right now.


    The settings must be fair.


    [The Whispering Devil expresses deep sympathy.]


    [The Lady of the Scales nods.]


    [The Nameless Observer observes.]


    It didnt seem like much since I frequently received five, but getting three messages simultaneously was actually pretty impressive in itself. The fact that I got three messages when I was just talking and not doing anything terribly special meant although they hadnt personally expressed their opinion, there were countless Guardians who agreed with me.


    The Shepherd Boys gangster act was unjustified.


    Though it wont matter that its unjustified if you dont dispute it.


    Such one-sided acts could be disputed no problem as long as you approached them with a reasonable method that could convince the Guardians. I was the one armed with the justificationthis was awful objection from the justified party. Knowledge is power.


    * * *


    * * *


    A message came in immediately, like the sender had been waiting for me to say those words.


    [The White Hunter temporarily strengthens a title.]


    It was extremely fast, almost as if the White Hunter was lying in wait to sponsor me. He had calcted the timing in advance. His rival, the Conductor of Sound, was probably blowing a gasket right now.


    [To make the settings fair, the System acknowledges the White Hunters adjustment.]


    With that, my title changed once again from Hunters March to (Courageous) Hunters March.


    Nice.


    I had experienced the upgraded effects before. There was a big difference between not having experienced something and having experienced it once. It was the difference between 0 or not 0.


    [Favor Granted by the White Hunter]


    Type: Special skill


    Name: (Courageous) Hunters March


    Effect:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    High chance to cure abnormal statuses in a solo battle (duration: 120 seconds)</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    +12% crit chance in a solo battle (duration: 120 seconds)</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    +40% increase in effect of consumable items in a solo battle</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Increased effectiveness of a direct attack ability of the caster when used inbination with Hunters March (limited to innate abilities).</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Can use the special ability Hunters Step.</li></ol>


    Cooldown: 360 seconds


    Proficiency: [1]


    The really good thing about this title was Hunters Step. I was in a 1 vs. 1 PVP right now, with less than one minute left before the safe zone expired.


    Many monsters appeared on both sides of Lao Yu.


    Troll Soldiers and regr Trolls.


    Those guys would be the tanks, so to speak.


    With Shadow Soldiers mixed in between.


    They were shadow monsters holding daggers. These China-exclusive monsters could be regarded as assassins/DPS. They were extremely skilled at stealth, but not enough to fool my Eye of Perception, so they werent much of a threat to me.


    Thats a Stone Golem?


    It was a monster around level 30 with great physical prowess.


    Hes even got a Shadow Archer?


    Shadow Archers were one rank higher than Shadow Soldiers. Their long-range attack, Shadow Arrow, was extremely sneaky and tipped with strong poison, making them tricky monsters to face.


    And that ones an Orc Shaman.


    It was my first time seeing an Orc Shaman in an ordinary field.


    Judging by its white nose ring, its a healer/buff shaman.


    Lao Yus monster squad had quite a diverseposition. My opponent was full of confidence.


    These monsters have never been seen in Korea, right?


    ...


    Theres no reason to be surprised. There are lots of monsters like these in China.


    When it came to monster diversity, China was definitely one step above Korea. But unfortunately for Lao Yu, I was already very familiar with those monsters.


    I dont see any monsters that can deal a single powerful blow.


    That left only one conclusion.


    Lao Yu himself is the one who can deal such a blow.


    From his monster lineup, I figured out that my opponent had an ultimate move he would use when the time was right. There was nothing easier than a PVP against an opponent you knew inside out.


    Ten seconds remaining.


    There are certainly many monsters Ive never seen before.


    Heh. Lao Yus shoulders straightened with pride.


    But I dont see how that matters.


    The White Hunter, a Guardian who loved 1 vs. 1 PVP, was watching. He had granted me a favor, so I had to give him an appropriate show.


    When will you summon the Big ck Dog? Lao Yu asked.


    Iughed. It was just as I thought. Since I was rted to the Sword Forest and tamed a Big ck Dog, it wasnt strange that he would think I was a tamer. He probably intended on a tamer vs. tamer showdown.


    Why would I summon a Big ck Dog?


    Only five seconds were left before the safe zone expired.


    Do you not need it?


    I couldnt summon a Big ck Dog, and I didnt want to, either. Why would I bother summoning something to fight for me, when I could fight plenty well on my own?[Equipping Sylphids Wing.]


    That moment, Lao Yus eyes widened.


    Archer?[The Safe Zone has expired.]


    The Safe Zone disappeared, and Lao Yu was clearly taken aback. However, he didnt forget about the battle.


    Troll Soldiers. Advance.


    The Troll Soldiers started advancing, their shields raised.


    Sorry, but


    Troll Soldiers might be good at tanking, but they were slow. They couldnt catch an archer with such sluggish movements. Lao Yu quietly gave orders to his troops.


    I dont need to hear it to know.


    The flow of the battle was clear to me.


    Hes probably readying the Shadow Soldiers to attack me.


    He thought I was an archer. He undoubtedly thought that I would increase the distance between us and fire my bow. After all, that was how a long-ranged DPS normally fought.


    Ill pretend to increase the distance.


    I took two steps backwards and saw Lao Yus eyes gleam. He might have outstanding talent as a tamer, but he was green in the ways of 1 vs. 1. That was my assessment of him.[Using the special ability Hunters Step.]


    I narrowed the gap in the blink of an eye.


    [+21% movement speed]


    [+26% jumping power]


    [+33% eleration]


    [+31% maximum speed]


    And then, I pulled out Isabel.


    Wh-What?


    Lao Yu panicked, and I didnt miss the opening his panic provided.


    Using sh Step, I cut a straight line up to Lao Yu. It was a very small opening, but that tiny opening allowed me to approach a man surrounded by a monster army with extreme ease.


    I never said I was an archer.


    I swung the transcendent item Isabel.

 Chapter 194

    Chapter 194


    I never said I was an archer.


    I swung Isabel a little wider than necessary on purpose.


    You. Youre hiding something, arent you?


    I knew what he was hiding. He would probably pull out his continuously growing monster, Phoenix, the card he was saving to deal the final blow against me. Sure enough, a bird flew out from behind the Troll Soldier guarding Lao Yu.


    Its not the Phoenix I know.


    It was very different from the one I had seen on Youtube in the past.


    No wonder he lost so easily to Wings.


    The current Lao Yu was still far from mature. His Phoenix was, of course, just as immature. Right now, it just looked like a ming pigeon. However, the fire ki within that ming pigeon was rather pure and strong.


    Lao Yu grinned. I never said I would go down without a fight, either.


    Thanks to me swinging Isabel a little clumsily, Lao Yu barely dodged Isabel and ordered, Fire!


    The ming pigeon shot a fireball at me.


    Its less violent than a Fire Giants fire ki, and less pure than Athenaes fire ki.


    The attack of this still-immature Phoenix that had a lot of growing to do wasnt much of a threat to me.


    Should I let it hit me?


    I would probably be perfectly fine. My fire ki was higher in grade than what this ming pigeon shot out. Our energies were onpletely different levels.


    No.


    I chose a different path.[Using the special skill sh Step.]


    I chose to use the Sword Empress signature move, a technique Shin Yeonseo, one of Koreas strongest 1 vs. 1 PVPers, had used truly often. After using it, I realized that foot techniques were more important than swordsmanship. The feet were more important than the sword, and the eyes were more important than the feet. And thankfully, I had both feet and eyes.


    My body is light.


    I keenly felt the effects of (Courageous) Hunters March. I easily dodged the ming pigeons fireball and closed in on Lao Yu, bringing Isabel to his neck.


    Is that everything up your sleeve?


    ...What in the world is your ss? The way you move is way too different from the archers Ive faced so far.


    I said I wasnt an archer.


    Then what are you?


    Im a sovereign.


    ...What?


    That was probably more shocking.


    Isnt sovereign a nonbat ss?


    Theres bound to be sovereigns who also fight.


    Where? What kind of sovereign is that?


    I could ask you the same. How did a beginner tame a mythological creature?


    ...You have a talent for rendering a person speechless.


    He himself was an Irregr, so he easily epted that I was one, too.


    We should wrap up the PVP for now.


    I instantly shed Isabel, cutting Lao Yus throat.


    <em>Slice!</em>


    There wasnt much resistance. However outstanding a tamer he might be, he didnt have high defense. The moment Isabel was at his throat, Lao Yus posse of tamed monsters meant nothing. I won in the PVP against Lao Yu without difficulty.


    [You have won the PVP.]


    [The White Hunter is very happy.]


    The favor the White Hunter had briefly bestowed disappeared. But the Conductor of Sound jumped forward first.


    [The Conductor of Sound expresses great happiness in your victory against arge number of foes.]


    [The Conductor of Sound sends you a Map of the Battlefield as a sponsorship.]


    Map of the Battlefield?


    Whoa.


    I didnt know exactly what it was, but I had a good idea.


    Just like what the Giant of the Sunset did for Choi Sung-gu


    Each Guardian was bound to have their favorite yer, and there were Guardians out there who heaped investment on their favorites. If my guess was right, the Conductor of Sound just set me as their favorite. If I activated this Map of the Battlefield, I would be able to open something like Sung-gus Shot Table Dungeon.


    A Guardians gift to their favorite.


    Choi Sung-gu acquired the Tome of the Divine Fire Physique there.


    I <em>am </em>happy, but


    I had my misgivings. It was true that I was ying very well


    But what about the Wargod Salvatore?


    Now that I thought about it, Vs name was already gaining traction in Italy, but I hadnt heard Salvatores name at all. The two started ying at around the same time and would grow neck and neck with each other as rivals, but I hadnt heard any mention of Salvatore.


    Could it be that the Conductor of Sound has been putting everything on me?


    Was that why the future Wargod was nowhere to be seen? But Salvatore yed a crucial role in winning the Battle of the Maldives, an international event that gave Yeonseo her Sword Empress moniker. I would have to think about this a little more.


    Lao Yu reappeared by the power of resurrection.


    Getting your throat shed is a seriously terrible experience.


    He rubbed his throat. That moment, Senia appeared and asked me a question.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. Was the PVP just now a 1 on 1 battle or a group battle?


    This wasnt a question from Senia, but from the Conductor of Sound and the White Hunter. Jeez. Was this a Do you like mommy more, or daddy more?


    What answer would me the best result?


    The PVP with Lao Yu was a 1 on 1 battle between me and Lao Yu as individuals.


    That was why Hunters March was so potent.


    [The White Hunter is very satisfied.]


    [The White Hunter gives you a 500 Coin sponsorship.]


    Tch, be a little more generous with your sponsorships.


    And me pitting all my skills against Lao Yus entire army was a group battle as well.


    [The Conductor of Sound is happy.]


    [The Conductor of Sound gives you a 600 Coin sponsorship.]


    At this point, the right answer wasnt actually important. These two were currently waging a battle of pride. Still, I liked the Conductor of Sound a little more. They had given me a bigger sponsorship and the Map of the Battlefield, after all.


    [Map of the Battlefield]


    A once-fierce battlefield. The crossroads of the living and the dead, the victorious and the defeated.


    This is a map that guides you to the Battlefield of Crows.


    I had no idea where the Battlefield of Crows was. It wasnt something I could ascertain at my current level.


    Lao Yu shook his head back and forth.


    Youre a sovereign, but also an archer with the movements of a closebat martial artist. You got me good with thosepletely unexpected moves.


    Were you defeated simply because my movements were unexpected?


    Even if I had moved like he expected, I would have won. And overwhelmingly, at that.


    ...


    Lao Yu stared at me before finally admitting it.


    Even if you had moved like I expected, I would have been soundly defeated. Ive never met a yer like you before. The average level of Korean yers is low, so I didnt expect a monster like you.


    It didnt seem like he was just trying to tter me. Lao Yu probably needed to talk me up for some reason. I waited in silence.


    Since I totally lost the PVP, Ill be sharing information about the Sword Forest. Cant be helped.


    I guessed it was some kind of penalty Lao Yu incurred. Before he could continue, I asked, Are you rted to Noah, by any chance?


    ...What?


    Lao Yu once again stared at me, speechless. He looked as if he were resisting the strong urge to ask me what the hell I was.


    Thats correct. Noah. I thought I was the only one with this info.


    I already know that Noah is somewhat connected to the Sword Forest.


    Actually, I didnt know. I only guessed it because Noah had Isabel. Bute to think of it, that was a little weird. Why did an NPC named Noah in a beginning dungeon like the U-Plex Dungeon have a transcendent item like Isabel? Isabel was a treasure so valuable that even a dwarf elder said he was being granted an audience.


    So it was weird. There was something hidden here, a big secret and scenario.


    You already know everything, so Ill be frank. I have a quest from Noah to find and bring him a red jewel of unknown identity.


    A red jewel of unknown identity?


    I don''t know what that is yet, either. Im told I can get information about the Sword Forest if I bring him that jewel. Lao Yu sighed. And this is pretty high-level info, too I had no idea Id get robbed blind like this in a PVP.


    * * *


    * * *


    After finishing the PVP against Lao Yu, I went to the Gran Seoul Dungeon, where Jackson and V were already waiting. In the car on the way there, I thought back on what Elder Bufafa said.


    <em>I will need to take a close look to know for sure, but there is a way to restore her to some degree.</em>


    <em>It requires two materials, as well as a dwarf from the Sword Forest.</em>


    <em>One is [cksmiths Red Jewel], and the other is [Magicians Red Jewel].</em>


    But now, I knew there was a Chinese yer who needed to bring a red jewel of unknown identity to Noah, the former owner of Isabel.


    Maybe the red jewel of unknown identity was either the cksmiths Red Jewel or the Magicians Red Jewel?


    The Sword Forest scenario. And the Gran Seoul scenario. Both of them arent scenarios Im doing on my own.


    Little by little, I was getting wrapped up in the scenarios of the worlds Rankers, and famous Rankers at that. That was just how major these two scenarios were. To think such scenarios were hidden in the Korean server


    While I was organizing my thoughts, the car reached the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    The Icewall guild members gathered by Song Junghye were upying the gate again. They had reimed their position after Lao Yu was routed.


    I happened to get a call from Song Kiyeol just then.


    We are no longer able to stand by and watch.


    Lao Yu was able to kick out Song Junghyes forces all on his own, but the Korean yers were incapable of the same feat? Even Taeguk Shield?


    Some people are saying this is almost a blow to our national dignity.


    Taeguk Shield had no choice but to pay attention to public sentiment, and as such, they had to make a move now.


    So I gave him the answer he wanted.


    Beat them up.


    ...What?


    Make the difference in strength very clear to them. Dont think of them as your little sisters gang.


    Song Kiyeol was great, but he was too weak when it came to his little sister. And I knew his little sister Song Junghye better than he did.


    It could be that getting totally steamrolled is what Miss Junghye wants.


    Our phone call ended there, and I met up with V and Jackson. We began talking about the hidden field of the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    I can find the entrance for you, said Jackson. He looked a little regretful. But entry is restricted to two people, so I think Ill have to sit this one out.


    Are you okay with that, Jackson? Just finding the entrance for us?


    Well, thats part of an explorers job description.


    Jackson withdrew unexpectedly easily. He said he would only find the entrance.


    Do you not want anything?


    I do.


    Jackson stared at me with a grin.


    The head of he who will be king.


    ...


    What did that mean? Before, he said he needed the head. I didnt think he meant he would be cutting off that head.


    I am an Exploring Baptist, a ss destined to anoint the kings head with oil. He shrugged. However, I havent found the king yet, so please help me when I ask for helpter.


    ...


    I dont think there is anything wiser than to get a yer of your level indebted to me.


    ...


    Jackson headed to the exit of the Gran Seoul buildings parking lot.


    This is the entrance. In order to open this ce properly, I need the restored Crown.


    I gave Jackson the Crown, which he promptly stowed in his Inventory.


    Now.


    He stared right at me.


    What shall I do now?


    It looked almost like he was testing me, saying, I have the Crown I wanted. Whatre you gonna do about it?


    I didnt feel any hostility from him. And he didnt look to be ovee by worldly desire, like Pedro was when he first saw the Tomb-Pilfering Shovel. This wasnt worldly desire or greed. This was a test of the Exploring Baptist. A test to see if I was truly qualified to enter the hidden field of the Gran Seoul Dungeon, to see if he should open the entrance for me or not.


    So I asked back.


    Then what shall <em>I </em>do?


    I never once intended on doing nothing as he stole the Crown from me. I had predicted this test.

 Chapter 195

    Chapter 195


    Elder Bufafa went to the house of his old friend, Bwarara. Just like Elder Bufafas house, Elder Bwararas house looked like a burning smithy.


    He opened the door.


    Long time no see, my friend!


    Bwarara and Bufafa embraced. They didnt see each other often, but whenever they did, it was a truly joyful and enjoyable affair.


    Elder Bufafa smiled widely. Ivee to see you three times in a row, so its your turn next time.


    You were here just two years ago.


    Dwarfs sought less social contact than humans. Although they hadnt met in two years, for dwarfs, they met rtively frequently.


    Anyway. Elder Bwarara weed Bufafa inside. How about a drink?


    Sounds good.


    The two elders tipped back their first drink together in a while.


    Right, right. Bufafa. You look like youre itching to say something.


    Thats right. Howd you know?


    You look like you have an itch in your butt. Whats up? Is it about that human from before?


    The rumors have reached you, too?


    Of course. The story of the human who drew near to Athenae, the Sacred me only blessed dwarfs can approach, has already spread like wildfire through the Winter Castle. Elder Bwarara drank his alcohol. Kyaa. Good stuff.


    In truth, Elder Bwarara did not have much goodwill towards humans. He neither disliked or liked them, but dwarfs generally either ignored or excluded other races, especially races that had terrible production abilities like humans.


    Well, its true hes an impressive human. But its not like hes the only such human, right?


    Thats true. He wasnt the only one. Bufafa continued, But thats only if he was from the Sword Forest.


    Hes not from the Sword Forest?


    He definitely isnt.


    Hes not a Sword Forest native, but he was able to get close to Athenae?


    Elder Bwarara put down his mug. I thought for sure he was a Sword Forest native.


    Bwarara. Think about it. Even in the Sword Forest, how many humans from there can approach Athenae? Theyre few and far between.


    Thats true, isnt it?


    But a human whos <em>not from the Sword Forest</em> got close. Bufafa took a deep breath. And he had the transcendent artifact, Lady Isabel, with him.


    What did you say?!


    Bwarara jumped to his feet. He got up so forcefully that his beard struck Bufafa in the face.


    Lady Isabel? Whoa. A <em>human</em> had <em>that</em>?


    Not only that, but a part of the ego was awakened.


    Whoa.


    Bwarara stared at Bufafa in disbelief.


    Are you sure? You saw it with your own eyes?


    I did. It was for a very brief moment, but the ego was definitely active.


    Holy Athenae. Youre telling me a human had that?


    Hes the swords bride.


    Bwarara blinked his two eyes.


    The first swords bride in 700 years Is he qualified?


    Actually, I wanted to talk because of that.


    Hm?


    The swords bride came with a crown.


    Isnt that amon urrence?


    He asked me to engrave a return authority while restoring it.


    A return authority? Isnt that pretty normal?


    But its not something a swords bride that has only just begun to toddle should know. Bufafas eyes turned serious. And I engraved the return authority like I was bewitched.


    Like you were bewitched?


    When I snapped out of it, I found that I had restored the Old Crown into a Crown and finished engraving the return authority on that crown. Without getting anypensation.


    Of course, he followed themandment and the rules of the quest, but Bufafa earned nothing of material value.


    Eh? You, a dwarf who holds the value ofbor more sacred than anything else?


    Thats what Im saying. It was like I was bewitched or something.


    He was yed like a damn fiddle. Bufafa considered the value ofbor sacred. Labor had to bepensated, if only a little. That was the correct attitude of a working dwarf.


    I only realized it after everything was done.


    Bufafa emptied his mug, too. Then, he opened his mouth again.


    Our ancestor said the same thing happened to him 700 years ago, right?


    * * *


    * * *


    Then what shall <em>I </em>do?


    I foresaw the Exploring Baptists test, and as such, I said this to the dwarf elder Bufafa.


    <em>Oh, before I forget. I have a request, Elder.</em>


    To go back to what Bufafa said, he was having an audience with Isabel. That was why he epted my request without much resistance.


    <em>A return authority? Not a problem. I will do it for you.</em>


    As a result, there was a return authority on the Crown, and one personally engraved by a dwarf elder. Even yers ten yearster would have a hard time breaking that authority, so was the current Jackson capable of the feat?


    Hes not.


    I raised my right hand, my palm facing the sky.


    This is what Ill do.


    Golden light began to pool on my palm. Infinite rays of light gathered, and then I heard a notice.[Reiming the Crown.]


    The golden light suddenly took the appearance of a crown, the restored crown we had gained with dwarven help. Jackson made a shrug of defeat upon seeing the crown sparkling brightly under the sunlight.


    Its my loss.


    ...


    Did you expect this?


    I thought there was at least a 50% chance of it happening.


    Its as they say. Theres always someone better.


    Jackson actually looked pleased. V was just tilting his head, notprehending what was going on.


    Hey guys. Whats going on?


    There was no real need to give V an exnation. This was an issue between Jackson and me.


    Cmon, fes. Clue me in, too.


    Guys?


    Hyukjin? Jackson?


    Tch. Meanies.


    V muttered to himself before shutting his mouth. He then proceeded to mutter, Ill beat you jerks up.


    Ill open the door now, said Jackson. Only, opening a gate is much easier with an item called a Gate Opener. I think that will greatly reduce the difficulty of the dungeon. And of course, it will also make it easier for me to open the gate.


    A Gate Opener?


    We had that. More precisely, V had one, acquired from the Gatekeeper Lee Sungcheol. V stared at me.


    Oh. You finally wanna clue me in?


    No, not that. Gate Opener.


    Gate Opener? V tilted his head. Whats that?


    ...


    It was actually terrifying that this was his true self. He couldnt even remember the name of an item he acquired. His forgetfulness was probably exacerbated by the fact that the item wasnt rted to directbat.


    The item you took from Gatekeeper Lee Sungcheol in front of the D-Tower.


    Ah! Vs two cells finally rubbed together and made a spark. Bottle opener?


    Yeah, that thing.


    With a spark of understanding, V started rummaging in his Inventory. His Inventory wasnt sorted at all, so it took him a long time to locate it. This guy was strangely super good at item switching, but apparently, that only applied to fighting.


    Found it!


    He took out the Gate Opener and gave it to Jackson.


    Here.


    Even the amazing Jackson couldnt help but make a face at V. Youre just going to give it to me?


    Whats wrong with that? Im going in there.


    Thats true, but this is a consumable item. This item can be used a total of three times.


    V and I were nning on entering a dungeon right now. Jackson couldnte in since entry was limited to only two people. In other words, if V gave the Gate Opener to Jackson now, it was unlikely that he would ever get the Gate Opener with two additional uses back.


    V, this naive soul, asked back, And?


    After using it once here, there will be two uses left. But you are going into the dungeon, and the Gate Opener with additional uses will remain in my possession.


    Ah. Is that a problem? V shed an easy smile. Take it, its yours.


    ...


    Jackson stared at V like he couldnt quite keep up.


    Whats wrong?


    ...


    I felt a strange sense of kinship with Jackson.


    Why are you giving it to me?


    Cause I cant use it?


    Cant you just sell it?


    Thats so troublesome.


    Vs personality was beyond logic or reasoning to begin with. I thought he was just exaggerating it for the screen on Youtube, but this was his real personality. It was, in some respects, extremely shocking.


    V said, Well then, hurry and open the hidden field.


    * * *


    [The hidden condition of the Gran Seoul Dungeon has been activated.]


    [The hidden entrance of the Gran Seoul Dungeon has been generated.]


    Near the exit of the underground parking lot, an entrance was activated.[Only those with a special qualification can seek passage through the hidden entrance.]


    V and I already fulfilled that qualification.


    [Map of the Gran Seoul Dungeon]


    A piece of a map bearing information about the Gran Seoul Dungeons hidden piece. Only those with this map can activate the hidden piece. Additionally, this map acts as an entry ticket for a new entrance.


    The Map of the Gran Seoul Dungeon that was acting as the entrance ticket went up in mes. A ck, shimmering entrance appeared, visible only to us.


    Jackson bade us a casual goodbye.


    Have a nice trip.


    In the past, Jackson might have been the one to go in here with V, but now, I was taking his ce.


    The shimmering of the entrance is ck.


    Normally, the color of a gate didnt change like this.


    Its simr to what you see when shadow monsters appear.


    Id have to go in to find out more.[You have entered the hidden entrance.]


    The Gran Seoul Dungeons hidden field was a ce even I had no idea how to clear. I felt humidity in the air.


    It looks exactly the same, said V.


    We were standing on the road going into the underground parking lot. The ce looked the same as it did from the outside, but the air was more moist and damp.


    It was structured like we were walking down a ramp underground. I took the lead.


    Lets go.


    I couldnt feel any impressive presences from the monsters I could sense.


    <em>Kikik!</em>


    <em>Kikikik!</em>


    <em>Kigigik!</em>


    The cries of monsters came some distance down, from a ce we couldnt see.


    Goblins.


    I was surprised that such weak, low-level monsters would be in a ce like the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    V. There are Goblins down there.


    Goblins? Theyre super weak.


    We continued walking down the ramp. There really were Goblins waiting for us. There were about thirty of them.


    Thisll be quick, eh?


    No, dont kill them.


    <em>Why? </em>was a reasonable question


    Got it.


    But V agreed remarkably quickly.


    <em>Kigik!</em>


    <em>Kigigik!</em>


    A few Goblins mbered onto V, but their clubs couldnt prate Vs defense.


    Theyre annoying. Can I just kill them?


    Leave them be.


    Got it.


    V was surprisingly obedient.


    Whens the strong fe gonnae out?


    Not sure.


    It couldnt just be Goblins. We continued walking down, ignoring the Goblins. Even if they attacked, they couldnt harm either of us. We werent level 1 yers, after all.


    Huh. Theyre not chasing us anymore.


    The Goblins stopped chasing us when we reached a certain point. We kept going down.


    Ugh. How long do we have to keep going down?


    We had already walked down for two hours straight.


    There are monsters lurking around us.


    Really?


    Assassin ss monsters.


    Are they good at fighting?


    Vs fighting spirit finally began to burn.


    No. Theyre good at stabbing and ambushing, but theyre probably weak at directbat.


    That was probably why they were remaining hidden, waiting for their chance to attack.


    But how do you know that?


    Cause Im an archer. Archers have special eyes.


    Ah. Thats true.


    He didnt even ask the extremely natural question, I thought you said you werent an archer? He just took me for face value and epted my exnation. How could someone be this single-celled?


    The monsters wheeling around us right now are Shadow Soldiers.


    They were moving rather stealthily, but I could see them clearly. Thanks to experiencing them before through Lao Yu, I could follow their movements far better.


    The problem is this probably isnt all.


    Were Shadow Soldiers really the final enemies? Even the lower-leveled Lao Yu had a few of them tamed. Shadow Soldiers had an average level of around 30.


    Things will get super exhausting if something like a Shadow Knight shows up.


    Worse yet


    If a Shadow Sovereign were to appear here


    We would really have to fight for the clear with our lives on the line.


    Both the Goblins and the Shadow Soldiers arent very dangerous enemies.


    That meant there were definitely dangerous ones around somewhere.


    And there arent any real traps to speak of.


    It was just an open path we had to keep walking down. Basically, the difficulty was extremely low. It shouldnt be like this.


    We walked down for another two hours straight. It became darker and darker. Magic lights were illuminating the surroundings here and there, but it was still not to the point of being able to see clearly. Those lights had descriptions.


    [Murky Magic Torch]


    A magic torch of the murky attribute. Not very bright due to its murky nature.


    At some point, I could see the end of the path, a discovery that was apanied by a booming thud.


    Our retreat has been blocked.


    A physical wall thudded into ce behind us, blocking our retreat. We were trapped in an enclosed space. And then, I heard a voice.


    <Wee, offerings of the shadow.>


    <em>Wee. Offerings of the shadow. </em>These words were familiar to me.


    Shadow Sovereign.


    Deep underground, in the Gran Seoul Dungeons hidden field, was a Shadow Sovereign.


    Its too disadvantageous for us to fight here.


    A Shadow Sovereigns presence meant there were also Shadow Knights. This ce was too restrictive; it was the optimal environment for them. We had to first get out of here somehow. If we didnt, we would die here.


    We were trapped in darkness.


    There is a way.

 Chapter 196

    Chapter 196


    <em>Wee, offerings of the shadow.</em>


    The moment I heard those words, I came to a conclusion. A Shadow Sovereign would spawn here.


    It was my first time using it for real.[Using the special skill me of Purification.]


    I used the special skill I earned by going up to the pure me Athenae, making a Ring of Fire, and upgrading my Person of Fire title to Pure Person of Fire.[Select the target to be purified with me of Purification.]


    Thinking there might be a chance a Shadow Sovereign might be here, I had memorized the locations of all the torches earlier.


    [Murky Magic Torch]


    A magic torch of the murky attribute. Not very bright due to its murky nature.


    A magic torch with a murky nature. Murky things could be purified, a fact I picked up on when we came in earlier.


    Theres not much time.


    V and I couldnt handle the Shadow Soldiers and Shadow Knights led by the Shadow Sovereign with just the two of us, especially not in a dark ce like this with limited visibility.[The purification targets have been selected.]


    I would fight fire with fire. It wasnt a very difficult concept. Not long from now, it would be a fairlymon thing to do. And the me I possessed was the me of Purification.


    <em>Fwoosh!</em>


    The torches burned immediately brighter.


    What are you doing?


    Turning off the lights.


    And then, darkness descended. I couldnt see anything. Not with Eye of Perception, not with Observers Eye, nothing. Complete darkness. A world devoid of even a single ray of light.


    V. Turn around right where you are.


    Eh?


    Were going back to where we were.


    Why?


    Because Ive gotten rid of the light. You remember where it is, yes?


    There was no time for a drawn-out exnation. The Great Explorer Jackson introduced the world to the Shadow Sovereign strategy.


    <em>The Shadow Sovereign is a very tricky monster to face. It is always apanied by shadow-type monsters, and it coordinates their movements, giving them a big buff as well as heals and even defensive spells.</em>


    The Shadow Sovereign yed an intermediary role that at least doubled the stats of Shadow Soldiers and Shadow Knights, virtually carrying out its role as a sovereign to a T.


    <em>A wide level difference is necessary in order to face them in a dark ce.</em>


    But we couldnt level up right at this moment. From the glimpse I had earlier, the Shadow Sovereigns level showed up as a red ? to me. That meant it was a higher level than me.


    <em>If there isnt a wide level difference, its best to get rid of all light in the vicinity. Because ironically, there can be no shadow without light.</em>


    If we could produce a light so bright that it cast absolutely no shadows, that would be a different story. If that were possible, it would surely deal a great blow to shadow-type monsters.


    But in the current situation, thats impossible.


    That left only one optionto extinguish all light here.


    Were deep underground, and theres no natural light here. And Ive gotten rid of the artificial light.


    Yeah. I get that much. Ive turned around. What do I do now?


    The Shadow Sovereign is only really strong when shadows can be formed. Theres no light, so theres no shadow. So what do you think we have to do now?


    No idea. Just tell me.


    I never actually hoped that V would understand. To V, what was important wasnt the process, but the result. To him, the only thing that mattered was what he had to do next. But it was different for the Guardians who were watching all this. I had to throw in the narration they desired.


    We have to destroy the wall that trapped us in and let the lighte in.


    That moment, my ears picked up cracking noises from the wall.


    Hear that? Break that wall down, quick.


    Faster than the Shadow Sovereign expected, half a beat ahead of our foe, V let out a roar.


    <em>Ba-baaam!</em>


    And then came a crash so loud it sounded like an explosion. I had a truly random thought. If V and So Yoohyuns fists collided, whose bones would shatter?


    Having readied myself in advance, I immediately shoved down Vs head.


    Ack! Whatre you Vsint died away. Thanks. You saved me.


    Thanks to me pushing down his head, the Shadow Spear thrown by a Shadow Knight missed its mark. The pitch-ck Shadow Spear crashed into the wall of the parking lot passage and was absorbed, seeping into the wall like ck oil before quivering like it was alive.


    Run.


    Where to?


    Up.


    V and I began to run. The simple V followed my instructions just as simply. He didnt ask why, he just began to run full-tilt.


    How did you know? he asked while running. That an attack would being?


    I got rid of all the light.


    I know.


    He didnt seem particrly interested in the fact I had used an ability simr to magic. It looked like he had just epted it as a matter of fact.


    The Shadow Sovereign must have also concluded that in order to make shadow, it had to first make light. That would require it to destroy the wall.


    Right.


    That was my intent, too. The Shadow Sovereign read that intent.


    It knew what I was doing, but it had to move anyway. Because without any light, shadows were powerless.


    So I knew it would put a Shadow Knight on standby there.


    Ohh, so you read each other''s moves. Hah. Hah!


    V started panting. It wasnt unusual, considering we were running full speed uphill. But his constitution was worse than I thoughtI was totally fine.


    Some distance ahead of us, I started seeing the monsters we hadnt hunted earlier.


    Goblins.


    Regr Trolls.


    Troll Soldiers.


    Orcs.


    They were all not very strong.


    As long as you dont think theyll deal a fatal blow, just tank the hits and keep running.


    Hah! Hah! Kay.


    My primary goal was to run all the way to the exit of the underground parking lot, the entrance of the hidden field. In the end, we were able to reach the entrance. V bent over with his hands on his knees, gasping for air.


    Hah. Hah. Hah. Hah.


    I activated Eye of Perception to pierce through the darkness veiling the underground space we had just run up. I couldnt see clearly, but I could sense the gist of what was happening.


    The shadow monsters are hunting the regr monsters.


    * * *


    * * *


    Jacksons strategy was correct.


    <em>The Shadow Sovereign is not the type of monster that fixates on killing humans. Each Shadow Sovereign requires a certain quota of offerings to satisfy itself.</em>


    That was why it dly weed us as offerings of the shadow when we first met it.


    The regr monsters have been taken as offerings instead of us.


    In due time, the satisfied Shadow Sovereign would be extinguished on its own. Even without us lifting a finger, it would fade away as if we had hunted it. If the clear condition for this ce was the Shadow Sovereigns death, we would be able to clear the hidden field very easily.


    Though I doubt itll be that easy.


    I didnt let myself rx. The Shadow Soldiers and Knights under the Shadow Sovereigns control hadnte up this farthey were still busy hunting the ordinary monsters.


    Suddenly, the hunt came to an end.


    Its quiet now.


    It seemed like all the monsters had been hunted. V and I started heading back down.


    Were going back down?


    We gotta negotiate with the Shadow Sovereign.


    We can talk to it?


    Well see.


    I knew one thing for certainits actions were prescribed by several settings. As long as I could properly grasp what those settings were, I could face the Shadow Sovereign.


    The shadows were voraciously devouring the monster corpses. They had no definite form. Almost like a demon with long fingers was opening its hand, the shadows wrapped around the monster corpses like fingers, chewing with gusto.


    It was possible to converse with the Shadow Sovereign within set bounds.


    Are the offerings I prepared to your liking, Shadow Sovereign?


    A shadow around three meters tall appeared before me, its amorphous form swaying. It looked like writhing ck smoke billowing up.


    <The quantity of offerings is sufficient.>


    <em>Ptooey.</em>


    Something came flying out from the shadow.


    An Orc bone.


    A chunk of Orc bone and innards were expelled.


    <em>Cherst!</em>


    An organ I took to be an Orcs heart fell at my feet. I was not shaken. The Shadow Sovereign had done as its settings prescribed and hunted all the offerings it needed. It shouldnt be feeling any need to hunt further.


    I dont think the Shadow Knights or Soldiers will attack, either.


    The formless monsters went around picking this ce clean, even chewing the organ at my feet.


    Ive given you sufficient offerings, so shouldnt you give me something?


    What would the Shadow Sovereign give me? It would soon disappear, dropping an item as it faded, but what would that item be? Would it be rted to clearing this ce?


    Just then.


    <em>Ueeaaghh.</em>


    I heard vomiting.


    It was the Shadow Sovereign. The 3-meter tall shadow spasmed before vomiting two items in front of me. Two items covered in a sticky, oil-like slime.


    Theyre both


    They were both Clear Crystals. However, the crystals came in apletely new form I had never seen before.


    Thankfully


    As one would expect from the beginner period, we would be able to get a Clear Crystal with a simple trade like this. The only issue was that the Clear Crystals were a little strange.


    Theres a ring around the crystals?


    Each crystal was encircled by a ring. One had a ck ring, and the other had a gray ring.


    [You have fulfilled a special condition.]


    [The Clear Crystal has been generated.]


    The item descriptions on both Clear Crystals could be read.


    [ck-Ringed Clear Crystal]


    A Single-Ringed Crystal that exists only in the hidden field of the Gran Seoul Dungeon. Upon this crystals destruction, the voluntary growth of yers in all servers on the dimension Earth will be limited to 40. yers will only be able to grow past 40 if they ingest a Growth Fruit.


    *Voluntary growth limit: 40


    *The yer who destroys this Clear Crystal will be given Premium Growth Fruit x12.


    All of this waspletely new to me. If this crystal was crushed, the voluntary growth of yers worldwide would be limited to 40.


    In the past yers not being able to raise their level past 40, was it because of this?


    My heart hammered in my chest. It felt like I was peeking into the chest containing the worlds secrets. It was still too early to draw a conclusion, but I had the feeling that the world Id been living in was concealing far too many secrets.


    [Gray-Ringed Clear Crystal]


    A Single-Ringed Crystal that exists only in the hidden field of the Gran Seoul Dungeon. Upon this crystals destruction, the voluntary growth of yers in all servers on the dimension Earth will be limited to 60. yers will only be able to grow past 60 if they destroy a Double-Ringed Crystal.


    *Voluntary growth limit: 60


    *The yer who destroys this Clear Crystal will be given a Clue Regarding the Sky of Freedom.


    Each crystals destruction came with different benefits. A great many thoughts ran through my head as I looked at these Clear Crystals, but there was really one thing I had to focus on now. Which of the two crystals was the right one to break, and would it be of any gain to me? That was the important thing. At least now, in this moment of time.


    For now lets check both of their benefits.


    I decided to find out what a Premium Growth Fruit and a Clue Regarding the Sky of Freedom was.

 Chapter 197

    Chapter 197


    First, the Premium Growth Fruit.


    [Premium Growth Fruit]


    If the voluntary growth of yers on all servers is restricted to level 40, all yers must have a special talent to be able to exceed level 40. Whether they have a special talent can be confirmed by ingesting a Growth Fruit. However, a yer will be able to exceed level 40 even without a special talent if they ingest a Premium Growth Fruit.


    *Can be mass-cultivated upon fulfilling a special condition


    For a moment, I was speechless. I reeled mentally as if an explosion went off in my head.


    Then the reason why a level 40 limit appeared in this world


    The reason why only those with a special talent could exceed level 40


    ...was because of someone who cleared this Gran Seoul Dungeon hidden field.


    Because that <em>someone </em>destroyed the ck-Ringed Clear Crystal.


    The most likely person to have done it is Jackson.


    That being said, I didnt intend on condemning his choice. This Premium Growth Fruit could even be mass-cultivated if a special condition was fulfilled. I didnt know whether that was possible or not, but what if it became possible one day?


    Then world domination isnt just a far-fetched dream.


    How many people were there in this world who could not progress further because of the level 40 wall? There were as many yers who shined radiantly as early bloomers before crumbling like sand castles in the tide as there were grains of sand on a beach.


    A sure-fire means to turn those innumerable yers into your subordinates


    That was the foreseeable conclusion. You could be the ruler of the world. At the very least, this ck-Ringed Clear Crystal implied that possibility.


    V looked quizzically at me. Whatre you thinking about so hard?


    Im thinking about which Clear Crystal to break.


    Huh? What Clear Crystal?


    Those two.


    Those two? I only see two rocks?


    ...


    V rubbed his eyes. Apparently, those Clear Crystals looked like stones to V. Youre kidding, right?


    No.


    Then youre telling me those are really Clear Crystals?


    I nodded.


    Holy shit. V flopped to the ground, shaking his head. If I came here alone, even if I made it this far, I wouldnt have been able to clear it in the end.


    He picked up a pebble on the ground. I wont get in the way, so you figure it out.


    He started ying with the pebble, tossing it around as if to say he would amuse himself. From this exchange, I realized another thing.


    The difference between V and me is being abat or nonbat ss.


    And in addition to that


    Whether we have the Crown or not.


    Those were the two differences. I believed this Crown was the crux. Both the Kings Road in the Gwanghwamun Dungeon and the Geunjeongjeon Field I had to clear in the far-off future were rted to kings. Additionally, the Gran Seoul Dungeon was a field capable of deciding the ruler of the world.


    Whats the Clue Regarding the Sky of Freedom?


    [Clue Regarding the Sky of Freedom]


    You will be given a clue regarding the undisclosed region, the Sky of Freedom. Upon destroying the Gray-Ringed Clear Crystal, the Sky of Freedom region will be opened, but the location and time will not be disclosed. The yer who destroys the Gray-Ringed Clear Crystal will earn the right to clear the Sky of Freedom.


    *A Sky Feather will be given as the Clue Regarding the Sky of Freedom.


    *You will acquire the elixir Freedom.


    I could also open another window exining the elixir Freedom.


    [Freedom Elixir]


    The final elixir created by the Towermaster of the 7th Magic Tower, Ragnoa. Upon ingesting Freedom, you can freely erase one System-stipted penalty. Applies to all settings that impose a restriction.


    The ck-Ringed Clear Crystal is obviously the better one.


    The ck-Ringed Clear Crystal would give you tremendous influence, power so great you could literally rule the world. <em>If</em> you could sessfully mass-cultivate that Premium Growth Fruit and impose a monopoly on it.


    But


    I had to consider many variables and circumstances. In the past, I suffered greatly because of the words [No Talent]. There were probably many, <em>many </em>other people who suffered because of theirck of talent. There might have even been people who suffered far more than me. That was my past. My memories weighed me down.


    And one more thing.


    Standing here, I recalled one person and what he said to me.


    <em>Ill wait for you at Endless Sky.</em>


    Endless Sky.


    A sky without end. The Sky of Freedom also had sky in it.


    The Demon King left me various gifts.


    Whether I could grasp and benefit from those gifts or not waspletely up to me.


    I cant trust the Demon King.


    He was someone who would kill me at a moments notice if I annoyed him even a little. And yet, all the help the Demon King had given me so far was entirely good, at least to me.


    Endless Sky.


    Sky of Freedom.


    The two might not seem very rted, but the Demon King being involved meant I couldnt ignore the possibility that they were.


    I have to make a decision.


    There was one other thing to consider.


    What about the Guardians?


    Which choice would the Guardians enjoy more? It would depend greatly on their personalities, of course, but I had to satisfy the greater majority of Guardians. I had to make the Guardians who could be of greater help to me happy. In order to make them thirst for me, to make them move as I wanted, I had to produce content they would go wild for.


    I think theyll be divided almost 50/50.


    However


    I


    I thought about it a little longer. There wasnt a time limit anyway. The Guardians were probably buzzing with anticipation right now.


    Drag it out a little longer.


    After letting more time pass, I finally made a decision.


    [The Gray-Ringed Clear Crystal has been destroyed.]


    [The voluntary growth of yers on all servers on the dimension Earth is now restricted to 60.]


    Now, it wasnt 40, but 60. A very meaningful change.


    In the end, there wont be any need to clear the Gran Seoul Dungeon, huh?


    It had to be cleared once in order to prevent the dungeon break, but it wasnt something that absolutely needed to be cleared. The Gran Seoul Dungeon wasnt nearly as important as it was in the past, at least until level 60.


    Itll be amusing if I can put Song Junghyes efforts to waste.


    A new scenario instantly came to life in my head. Done well, I would be able to deal a significant blow to Junghyes spirits.


    [Receiving the Clue Regarding the Sky of Freedom.]


    [Receiving a Sky Feather as the Clue Regarding the Sky of Freedom.]


    I also got an additional bonus.


    [The dungeon title True Ruler of the Gran Seoul Dungeon has been generated.]


    [The dungeon title True Ruler of the Gran Seoul Dungeon is a hidden reward given to the yer who destroyed the Gray-Ringed Clear Crystal.]


    A hidden piece even my Observers Eye had failed to pick up was triggered. There might have also been a hidden reward attached to destroying the ck-Ringed Clear Crystal. But True Ruler?


    I already had a title called Ruler of the Seoul Station Dungeon. Unlike regr titles, dungeon titles often didnt have much use, and they only applied inside the relevant dungeon. But the True Ruler title turned that notionpletely upside down.


    [True Ruler of the Gran Seoul Dungeon]


    Grants you the authority to fully control and govern the Gran Seoul Dungeon. The True Ruler of the Gran Seoul Dungeon exercises great power in every Gran Seoul Dungeon field.


    *Unlimited resurrection within the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    *Can invoke Death Sentencing within the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    *Can adjust Gran Seoul Dungeon entry conditions.


    *Can adjust Gran Seoul Dungeon difficulty.


    My jaw dropped without me realizing it.


    What the hell is this?


    I had never heard of a title like this. Regr dungeon titles had worse effects than normal titles. But this one? It would be no exaggeration to call this an absolute title.


    Unlimited resurrection Death Sentencing


    At least within the Gran Seoul Dungeon, I could reign almost like a god. Of course, things would be different if some kind of authority with a higher setting parameter than this title were to be exerted. But at least in the beginner period, no, in the intermediate period, there probably werent any yers with those kinds of authorities, no matter what manner of Irregr they were. For the time being, there shouldnt be any yers capable of overpowering this title.


    This is insane.


    The title effects were just too busted.


    Whats wrong? Why the face?


    Its nothing.


    V grumbled. Tch. It was super hard andplicated to get in here, but I only got a measly 3,000 Coins and one linked quest.


    Sorry. I took the lions share of the rewards, so not much was left for poor V. I probably maxed out the rewards here.


    A linked quest?


    Yuh. I got some kind ofbyrinth map. It looks like this is something I need to find and clear on my own. Its also linked to my ss scenario.


    Just one question, and he voluntarily bbered all the details on his own.


    Arent you miffed about this? We went through all that, and this is all we get as a reward.


    ...


    I didnt give him an answer. This single-celled organism truly saw the world through rose-tinted sses. He hadnt even begun to suspect that he got so little because I had taken so much.


    Theres no need to correct his misunderstanding.


    But I did feel indebted in some ways to V and fully intended on volunteering my assistance if he was ever in troubleter on.


    By any chance


    V came up to me, his expression quite serious.


    Oh? Did he notice it?


    With a look of utter seriousness, he asked, Could you introduce me to some good Korean restaurants? Korean food is super delicious.


    * * *


    * * *


    After clearing the Gran Seoul Dungeons hidden field, I went to the yer Center in the DMC to meet Song Kiyeol.


    The importance of the Gran Seoul Dungeon has now faded.


    ...Howe?


    I could understand how this might be baffling to Song Kiyeol. I exined the whole story, summarizing it with the fact that the Growth Fruit was no longer necessary, for the time being.


    It feels like weve toiled in vain, he said, his expression calm. He didnt seem terribly displeased, but he was still voicing his opinion.


    Good.


    Yes, it was important to voice ones opinion. I didnt want my partner to be someone who foolishly followed my every order. It was only right for the guildmaster of Taeguk Shield to make someint.


    If you think that, then I have no choice but to be disappointed in you, Guildmaster.


    ...


    Song Kiyeol thought in silence for a moment. He had clearly picked up on the barbs in my words. The reason why I was disappointed in him wasnt because heined. I was disappointed because he failed to see past this situation and think ahead.


    But Song Kiyeol as he is now


    He would be able to figure it out. A little clue would be enough for him to understand. Before long, his expression brightened.


    I see. I understand what you mean. He continued calmly, If we use this situation well


    Because he hesitated a little, I answered for him.


    We can crush Miss Junghye. At least once.


    ...


    With a very legal and reasonable method. From what I saw, she is once again using yers with gate abilities to upy the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    It wasnt unexpected, considering she knew from Jackson and Song Kiyeol that the dungeon was very important. But things were different now. The flow was greatly altered by my clear of the hidden field.


    ...


    As her older brother, Kiyeol was incapable of enthusiastically approving the crushing of his sister. But our thoughts were probably not very different. Song Junghyecked both the qualifications and capability to represent this country.


    Alright then, lets draw the concrete picture.


    The concrete picture?


    I smiled lightly.


    Well meet CEO Song Kiyoung. The two of us, together.


    And,


    Leak that information to Miss Junghye, too.

 Chapter 198

    Chapter 198


    I met CEO Song Kiyoung. The way he looked at me was very different from our first meeting.


    Right. I hear you wanted to see me?


    CEO Song Kiyoung was sitting at the head of the rectangr table. Guildmaster Song Kiyeol and I were sitting on either side of him, facing each other.


    The tea is ready.


    A handsome man with tidy, short hair set down three cups of hot tea.


    Lets talk over some tea.


    Sure.


    My wife throws a real fit if I use a pretty female secretary, joked CEO Song as if to lighten the mood first.


    I nced at the tall and handsome man out of the corner of my eye. Hm. I didnt think the gender of ones secretary was very important, but what was it with secretaries being universally good-looking? Though, well, a man being handsome had even less to do with me than a woman being pretty.


    Why did you want to see me? Could it be that youve found a way to mass-produce hair growth serum?


    ...


    First, I took a sip of tea. CEO Song waited patiently as I savored the tea. I wasnt very tense, even in front of the boss of Sungshin, a preeminent global corporation. Inparison, Song Kiyeol sitting on the other side of me seemed very nervous.State: Uneasy / Restless / Tense


    Was it because he pressed strongly for this meeting with me? Was he worried his grandfather, whose time was as valuable as gold, would get mad for setting up this meeting when we had nothing to show for it?


    No, its not that Hes worried hell disappoint his grandfather.


    That wouldnt happen. I began talking.


    This is good tea.


    Its Compagnie Coloniale ck tea.


    I didnt know what that was, but it was probably good. Whether this ck tea was tasty or not was irrelevant anyway.


    I think another guest will be joining us. Lets talk when they arrive.


    A guest? CEO Songs brows furrowed. My time is valuable.


    I am aware.


    How many people do you think can drop in on me unannounced without making an appointment first?


    Not very many, I would imagine.


    But Im sure its different if the guest is your beloved granddaughter.


    He probably didnt show his affection much, of course. And because of the fight for session, the way he looked at Song Junghye the potential heir and Song Junghye his granddaughter were likelypletely different. CEO Song was capable of that. Whatever the case, Song Kiyoung probably treasured Junghye more than he thought and wasnt one to be unhappy with Junghyeing up to his room.


    Not long afterwards, the secretary desk contacted us.


    Director Song Junghye hase to see you.


    Her title in Sungshin was director, huh? CEO Song fixed me with his eyes.


    Is Junghye the guest you mentioned?


    Yes.


    Song Kiyoung smiled faintly, an expression I couldnt tell was pleased or displeased.


    Tell her toe in, he said.


    Song Junghye entered the room.


    * * *


    * * *


    She did enter the room looking tidy and put together, but I was certain that Song Junghye ran over here urgently.


    Rough breathing.


    She looked unaffected, but there were beads of sweat on her nape despite it only being autumn.


    Looks like she was in a hurry.


    She must have dropped everything toe quick because she thought Kiyeol and I would be meeting CEO Song to discuss something very, very important. That was what we had leaked.


    Well then, shall we begin the discussion? I said.


    The gist of what I had to say was simple. The currently allied Giantgod Guild and Taeguk Shield would no longer involve themselves in the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    Which means, we will no longer interfere no matter what kind of ying you do, Miss Song.


    What do you mean by that?


    I heard you gathered yers with gate abilities and upied the gate. Something youre doing even now.


    Song Junghye lied without a single change in her expression. It seems theres been a misunderstanding. I know nothing about that.


    I knew she would say this.


    Then Im even more disappointed.


    What do you mean?


    It means youvepletely failed to recognize the importance of the Gran Seoul. If you had gathered gate yers to try and upy the gate, I would have at least admired your insight.


    That shut her up instantly. Her short-sighted gaze went not to me, but to her grandfather. She had no choice but to study his expression. The CEO was peacefully drinking his tea. <em>Scared, arent you? Blood and Iron Witch.</em>


    To tell you the truth, I was going to give up on the Gran Seoul Dungeon because I didnt want to get involved in a family dispute, but if itspletely unrted to you, then I smiled wide. There shouldnt be any problem if I chase all those yers away.


    ...


    In the end, Song Junghye opened her mouth.


    Fine. Its my loss. Its true that I employed them. Because I deduced the importance of the Gran Seoul Dungeon early on.


    Yes, it was better for her to admit defeat sooner rather thanter. CEO Song likely wanted that, as well. Looking at her state, unlike what her expressionless face suggested, she was seething on the inside.State: Rage / Anxious of Someones Gaze / Inferiority


    I didnt know if she was feeling inferior because of me or because of her brother.


    In that case, Taeguk Shield and Giantgod Guild will pull out of the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    Why?


    Because the Gran Seoul Dungeon has lost its value.


    ...


    Song Junghyes face turned ck. Didnt know that, did you? Song Junghye was just showing her grandfather that she was blindly investing wasted resources and effort like an idiot right now.


    As if that could be the case. You may not know, Mr. Kim, but there is a very high drop rate for a special fruit called Growth Fruit in the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    Junghye then began a long speech extolling the Growth Fruit. The exnation wasnt for my ears, but for her grandfathers, meant to show off her intel gathering prowess, the actions she took based on such info, and her excellent judgment in getting the jump on a ce that all yers would need to enter.


    I thought so as well, but it has just been revealed that its not the case.


    The reliability of that information is not high. Is that not just what you think?


    Talking to Song Junghye was too easy.


    You probably got your information from Jackson, right? Since he is apetent explorer.


    ...


    She didnt confirm or deny.


    Id bet that if you were to go back and investigate again with Jackson, you would see that things have changed. You see, these things called dungeons are almost like living creatures that change on a daily basis.


    ...


    I saw that she was biting her lip ever so slightly. She seemed to think she was getting shamed into the ground in front of her grandfather.


    Director Song Junghye. I am the guildmaster of Giantgod, a guild working in close cooperation with Taeguk Shield. You know this, correct?


    I do. Giantgod, a guild made up of a small number of elites. However, they arent very well known to the public. So Yoohyun, famed as the Tutorial Ender. Shin Yeonseo, who has a very pretty smile and overwhelming PVP skills. Jo Sunghyun and Choi Sung-gu, famous for their wind and firebo. And even the genius tank Kim Sunhwa adopted by your family. I know they are all amazing yers.


    Song Junghye worked hard to show off what she knew, as if to say she was unwilling to lose in a battle of intel. So I hit her in the sore spot with the facts.


    If my Giantgod Guild had been the one to upy the Gran Seouls gate, we wouldnt have been defeated by the Chinese yer Lao Yu.


    ...


    I had her now.


    Being defeated there is a sin. If youre going to do it, do it right. Or dont do it at all.


    I dont see how that is of any relevance to you.


    Of course it is. Because you were defeated by Lao Yu, Taeguk Shield was forced to take action. Surely you dont think Wings acted without Taeguk Shields permission, do you? While tantly talking up Taeguk Shield?


    The current guildmaster of Wings, Kim Donghyun, said this in an interview:


    <em>Theres no need for Koreas top guild to step forward because of a yer of Lao Yus level.</em>


    <em>I know he is ranked first among Chinas tamers. But that is just in China. Korea is, of course, more outstanding.</em>


    <em>In about three hours, when my teammates get here from clearing other gates, we will drive out Lao Yu from the Gran Seoul.</em>


    And surely you dont think Wings taking action has nothing to do with me.


    ...


    She probably didnt know. That Wings and I were acquainted, and I was involved in the recent fight to retake the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    I already had my hands full clearing the Gran Seoul Dungeons hidden field. Same goes for Taeguk Shield, of course.


    Taeguk Shield had nothing to do with the hidden fieldI was just letting Song Kiyeol hitch a ride so he could score a few more points in front of his grandpa. Between Junghye, who failed to properly dominate a gate you could see, vs. Kiyeol, who conquered a hidden field you couldnt see and gained new information, who was better?


    Song Junghye waspletely caught in my pace. Even her poker face cracked a little.


    Thats


    I cut her off. But the bigger problem is that you made another team out of that defeated group and upied the gate again.


    Before you say something, I strengthened my forces.


    Then shall I personally test how strong those strengthened forces are? The authority on the gate Will it break easily, or not?


    ...


    It was there that CEO Song interrupted with a cough.


    Now, now. Did you set up this meeting to shame my granddaughter in front of me? I say this because Im not terribly pleased, as her grandfather.


    Of course he wasnt. What grandfather would be happy to see his grandchild stripped down in front of him? That is, if they were a normal family.


    But CEO Song isnt a normal grandfather.


    He wasughing, but I could see the deep calm in his eyes. This man was an Irregr who awakened at his advanced age and was rapidly increasing his level. He was someone who could sharply delineate between private and business matters, even while displeased. Everything I said was sure to have been precious information to CEO Song.


    Itll be troublesome if he puts his weight behind the Blood and Iron Witch.


    This woman most likely had a deep connection to Jackson. There was no way she was able to be the future Blood and Iron Queen on her own. It was the right call to snip off her wings so she couldnt even begin to fly, if only for the sake of the emotionally weak Song Kiyeol. I stared at CEO Song.


    I am Guildmaster Song Kiyeols business partner.


    I know that.


    But there is a weak-willed side to my business partner.


    I saw Kiyeol flinch.


    Is that so? Do you see our Kiyeol as weak-willed?


    At least with regards to his younger siblings, yes.


    ...


    CEO Song was silent for a moment before giving a good-natured smile.


    So what you mean to say is, the reason you set up this meeting was to speak on behalf of your business partner, my grandson?


    Its only right for me to make up for what my partner is unable to do. Its a good thing for my Giantgod Guild if Taeguk Shield were to receive wholehearted support, correct?


    Hahaha. This method gives zero consideration to my feelings as their grandfather, doesnt it?


    He looked slightly mad, and that anger might be genuine. As long as he was a human being, that was inevitable.


    I want to raise Taeguk Shield to Koreas best, no, the <em>worlds</em> best guild.


    That moment, the look in CEO Songs eyes changed. He had reacted a little to the title of worlds best.


    I will do whatever it takes to make that happen.


    Why is it that you dont want to take that position yourself? With your discernment and skills, that should be a fine prospect. Youve also gathered the guild members of Giantgod.


    Because I dont have the background that is Sungshin.


    You mean to say that if being number 1 is hard to achieve, you will settle for being number 2?


    Let me put it like this: I am very clear on the limitations of my vessel.


    CEO Songughed, pping with mirth. How fun. How very fun. Youve be apletely different person altogether from when you first came to see me.


    Then, while looking at Guildmaster Song Kiyeol, he said, Youve chosen a truly incredible partner, Kiyeol.


    ...Thank you.


    That is what a partner is. Someone who can make up for ones shorings. Thats what tactics are.


    CEO Songs gaze briefly flitted to Song Junghye. Right now, in CEO Songs head, she was an idiot who failed at using a tactic once, and used that failed tactic <em>again</em>.


    It was about time to pull out my trump card. I didnt just set up this meeting to cut down Song Junghye and secure Sungshins support. I set it up because I wanted to observe CEO Song with my own eyes.


    If things go as they did in the past


    CEO Song didnt have much time to live. He would die from an unknown cause.


    CEO Song. There is something I would like to discuss with you in private.


    How can we trust you to be alone with Grandfather? Youre a yer who even crushed abat ss by f


    CEO Song raised his hand. Its fine.


    But


    Go on out, both of you.


    Kiyeol and Junghye left the room, leaving just Song Kiyoung and me. I saw CEO Songs status window very clearly.


    ss: [Golden Sovereign]


    Guardian: Golden-Horned Dokkaebi


    Summary:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    yer Preparing for Death</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Chaebol Leader Contemting his Sessor</li></ol>


    CEO Song himself was preparing for death. There were two clues: yer and Chaebol Leader.


    As a yer, he was preparing to die, and as a chaebol leader, he was contemting his sessor. I had confirmed it for myself, so I decided to ask him straight-forwardly. I had already proven my abilities and qualities, so even the mighty CEO Song would open up to me.


    The Golden Sovereign and Golden-Horned Dokkaebi. Are they rted in any way to your life?


    If I could save him, I would. Doing so wouldnd me a very big backer.

 Chapter 199

    Chapter 199


    The Golden Sovereign and Golden-Horned Dokkaebi. Are they rted in any way to your life?


    The moment I said those words, the room we were in, the CEO office,pletely changed. The rectangr room became a golden space made entirely of gold.[The Guardian Golden-Horned Dokkaebi deres a Guardian Exclusive Space.]


    CEO Songs irises turned slightly golden.


    This is


    It couldnt exactly be called descent. So what was an apt way to describe his state?


    Half descent?


    I couldnt determine exactly what it was from a single nce, but I could approximate what it was.


    You must have made a contract with a Guardian named the Golden-Horned Dokkaebi.


    Thats right, I did.


    This contract might be one that used CEO Songs life as coteral. For example, a contract where immense sponsorship was offered in exchange for his lifeforce.


    Its because of that contract that the 68-year-old CEO Song could grow this much.


    Since when have you known? he asked.


    From the very beginning.


    The very beginning? Heughed. Surely not. I wasnt the Golden Sovereign from the very beginning, and certainly not when we first met.


    This old gent. He was sharp.


    When we first met, your level was 11, and you had the innate abilities Charisma and Pressure. Which you used to pressure me.


    ...


    Am I wrong?


    Youre exactly right.


    When we met the second time, your level was 31. Your ss and contracted Guardian were already decided at that time.


    CEO Song only stared at me with his golden eyes. Hm. Why was this field established, and why were we talking within it?


    At that time, I was sure of it. That the Golden-Horned Dokkaebi, the Golden Sovereign ss, and you, these three key words, were closely connected.


    What kind of connection are you talking about?


    Theres no doubt that you gave something in exchange for levels, for your growth as a yer. Because that is what the System seeks.


    An interesting deduction.


    That <em>something </em>may have been something physical.


    I gave CEO Song a close look. He was maintaining a perfect poker facehis face betrayed no emotion. But when I observed with Observers Eye, I could see that those golden eyes were trembling ever so slightly. Because my level was higher than his, and because Observers Eye was more powerful than his poker face, I could read him a little more precisely.


    Your life may have even been taken as coteral.


    ...


    CEO Song gazed at me wordlessly, then said with augh, Youre exactly right.


    I will not ask why you made such a contract, sir. CEO Song surely had thoughts and ns of his own. Its just that I want to help you.


    You want to help me? Howe?


    Because I want Sungshins backing, of course?


    Isnt my quick departure from this world actually better for you? Kiyeol would inherit Sungshin. Arent you and Kiyeol close?


    Only if you gave Guildmaster Song Sungshin in its entirety.


    You think otherwise?


    I think you wouldnt have pitted the two siblings against each other if that was your n.


    CEO Song had no intention of passing on all of Sungshin to Song Kiyeol. In the past, he passed at least half to Song Junghye and returned the rest to the country or so it was said. Naturally, there was a lot of gossip about it, but that was the public story.


    CEO Song smiled lightly in amusement. An excellent analysis. Youre almost like my darn son.


    By son, he was referring to President Song Kicheon, who died in a ne crash several years ago. I remembered him as someone who was renowned as an outstanding individual and a genius who would inherit Sungshin as CEO Songs only son. It was a little inappropriate for me to say anything after the deceased was brought up, so I just kept my mouth shut.


    CEO Song seemed to pick up on the awkward mood, because he changed the topic a little.


    Right. Youve figured me out exactly and have perfectly read the current situation.


    ...


    Im sure you didnt make this meeting just between us in order to show off your insight.


    His eyes darkened. He had already clearly noticed why I asked to talk to him alone.


    You have a precise understanding of the situation and have said you want to help me, so Ill speak honestly. I currently have [Red Flower Tears] buried in my chest.


    ...


    Its lodged in my heart. Even I dont know when it will act up. If it ever will.


    You will die within three years.


    CEO Songs eyes widened, showing that he was finally surprised.


    You know about Red Flower Tears?


    Yes.


    Hoh.


    Most people in the future I was from didnt know about it.


    It is information I gained when I cleared the Predator Tree Colony with the Barrier Magician Ahn Seohye.


    Predator Tree Colony?


    There, I met [Rapundels Grievance], who gave me the information.


    The CEOs eyes suddenly returned to normal, and the room that had be a golden field went back to its original office form. When I mentioned the Predator Tree Colony, the half-descent state was automatically dispelled. I didnt know how they were connected.


    I continued. Red Flower Tears is a disease where the afflicted weeps tears of blood and dries out, eventually dying.


    ...Exactly.


    Since theres no cure, the afflicted person dies within three years. Its a terrifying disease.


    I see that you truly know many things and are acquainted with a world I do not know. I am sincerely surprised. Im being sincere right now. The more Ie to know you, the more you amaze me. To the point that I myself scorn my pathetic discernment when underestimating you in the past.


    At least from the future I was from, Red Flower Tears was a disease with no cure. But I had a clue regarding the treatment.


    [Map of the Predator Tree Colony, Addended]


    A Predator Tree Colony is a forest with many Predator Trees. Rapundels father made a Predator Tree Colony for his daughter because Predator Tree Seeds were known to be effective against Red Flower Tears. An artificially created Predator Tree Colony has a lifespan of three hundred years at most. The Predator Trees are unable to maintain the ecosystem for longer than that and perish.


    Predator Tree Seeds are very effective against Red Flower Tears.


    It didnt mean the seeds were a full cure.


    But maybe if the disease hasnt even fully awakened yet


    With colds, you could avoid most symptoms by catching them early. With cancer as well, early diagnosis and treatment often led to a good prognosis. Maybe Red Flower Tears was the same?


    I think it should be possible to treat the disease with Predator Tree Seeds somehow.


    I showed the CEO the Map of the Predator Tree Colony. The gleam returned to CEO Songs eyes. I could see he was greedy for it. I stowed the map back in my Inventory.


    I have shown you all of my cards.


    There was no such thing as free. I wanted to help CEO Song, but I had no intention of doing volunteer service.


    What kind of contract did you make with the Golden-Horned Dokkaebi? Why did you go forward with this contract, even at the cost of your life?


    Well


    Are you bound to secrecy?


    No, its not that.


    After a moment of thought, CEO Song began to speak.


    * * *


    * * *


    Song Junghye bit her lips. As soon as she left the executive office and got in the elevator, she rounded on her brother, Song Kiyeol.


    That jerk, just what the hell is he?


    ...


    Who does he think he is, to put me down like this? Did you put him up to it? She already knew the answer.


    No. I didnt know hed do that, either.


    Do you hear yourself? Youre the one who set that meeting up! Youre gonna deal such a low blow?


    ...


    Kiyeol didnt say anything. In terms of the result, it was true that this was a low blow.


    This situation was drawn out by Kim Hyukjin.


    Kim Hyukjin purposefully created and directed this scenario. He knew exactly what he, Kiyeol, could not do, and did his duty for him. Junghye was his little sister, but she was also hispetitor. And in this war, he could not always be good and kind.


    He also knows that Im weak towards Junghye.


    That was why Hyukjin implemented such a drastic measure.


    ...to me?!


    Lost in his thoughts, Kiyeol had zoned out for a moment. He heard Junghyes piercing voice again.


    I said, are you listening to me?!


    Im listening. Lower your voice. The elevator door will open soon.


    So this is how youre going to do things? Then I have ns of my own.


    Overly extreme conflict and methods arent right.


    Do you think you have the right to say that to me right now?


    ...


    Kim Hyukjin probably knew Junghye would be this enraged. Junghye was dancing on Hyukjins palm right now. Kiyeol believed that his little sister was absolutely no match for that man.


    Junghye.


    He gazed at his sister not with the eyes of apetitor, but the eyes of an older brother.


    That look. It disgusts me. The elevator door opened. Song Junghye continued under her breath. Im yourpetitor. Not your fucking sister.


    She pushed him aside and strode out. She was mad. She hated Kim Hyukjin, the leading culprit of this situation. But she hated that pitying gaze of her brother even more.


    How dare he? Hes just a foolish dreamer. How dare such a pathetic person pity <em>her</em>? Im yourpetitor, damn it.


    She wasnt his sister. They were supposed topete. But it infuriated her even more to see herpetitor look so half-baked like that all the time. He was like this, yet he schemed with Kim Hyukjin to do such a dirty thing? It was unforgivable, absolutely unforgivable.


    She got into the car waiting at the entrance and made a phone call to someone.


    Yes. Kim Hyukjin. From today onwards, record everything that jerk does and where and report it to me. In real time. And call Jung Sangchul. Yes! Do I need to repeat myself?! I said, call Jung Sangchul!


    She called her left arm, the Poisoned Dagger Jung Sangchul.


    * * *


    I listened to CEO Songs entire story. I, too, had no idea the CEO cared this much about his grandchildren.


    Golden Sovereign.


    The Golden Sovereign had the ability to maximize the talent of another person by consuming his fortune. At the same time, the Golden Sovereign himself could grow quickly, making this an Irregr ss.


    When CEO Song passed away there was a rumor of a slush fund.


    At the time, there was no announcement that his death was caused by Red Flower Tears. CEO Songs funeral was carried out in utmost secrecy.


    It wasnt a slush fund but money used to nurture his grandsons and granddaughter.


    That seemed to be it. The current Song Kiyeol, Song Junghye, and even the youngest Song Jinchul Before CEO Song died, he offered the mes of his life and fortune to nurture the three of them.


    No wonder.


    Kiyeol was doing admirably, but he was still a littlecking to be called a top-ss Ranker.


    Even more so for Song Junghye.


    The current Song Junghye was basically a fledgling, far short of deserving a moniker like Blood and Iron Queen. What about Song Jinchul? I heard he recently became a yer, but I had no measure of his skills.


    I see, he forcibly awakened and enhanced their talent.


    Rather than seeing it as an act of love for his grandchildren, it was because he judged that ones ability as a yer was very important to lead Sungshin into the future. The CEO of the current time period had already determined that onespetence as a yer was essentially power in the dawning age, and so, he made a bold investment with his very life on the line.


    Thats how much he loves Sungshin.


    Okay. I was clear on the situation now. Then the next step was a trade.


    As I said earlier, I want to help you. If only for the fact that I know of a drug effective against Red Flower Tears.


    ...


    I also know of a field where many Predator Trees can be found. To be precise, I have a clue about it.


    Really, just how much do you n on surprising me? Is there anything you <em>dont </em>know?


    Originally, the first person to discover the Predator Tree Colony wasnt me, but an Italian yer, the Wargod Salvatore. The reason why I was able to clear the Predator Tree Colony was also because he, the yer who still hadnt shown up, had cleared it first.


    The reason why he hasnt appeared yet


    It might have a lot to do with me.


    ...is because I became the Conductor of Sounds favorite.


    The Conductor of Sound either hadnt discovered Salvatore yet, or the Guardian wasnt giving him wholehearted support. It was very likely it was one of the two.


    But I have a close rtionship with the Conductor of Sound.


    I even had a map from him.


    [Map of the Battlefield]


    A once-fierce battlefield. The crossroads of the living and the dead, the victorious and the defeated.


    This is a map that guides you to the Battlefield of Crows.


    The Conductor of Sound.


    The Wargod Salvatore.


    The Predator Colony that was first found by Salvatore.


    The map the Conductor of Sound gave me.


    The crossroads of the living and the dead mentioned in the map.


    Was there really no connection between them?


    There might not be, but there also could be.


    It would be best if they were connected, but it was fine if they werent. I would be able to draw a new picture if I could make good use of this situation and manage it nicely.


    I should be able to find the Predator Tree Colony Salvatore cleared, too.


    That was up to me. Now that I had charted the path, all I had to do was fill in the lines.


    Lets make a trade.

 Chapter 200

    Chapter 200


    Lets make a trade.


    CEO Song responded like he had already predicted I would propose a trade and was waiting for me to say the words. What kind of trade, exactly? What I want from you is already clear. What do you want from me?


    I believe you already know what that is.


    We may have not said it aloud, but we both knew very well what we wanted from one another. CEO Song nodded.


    Youre getting Sungshins support from Taeguk Shield anyway, so I wont bother rehashing that.


    So basically, Sungshins support was a given. Both CEO Song and I were well aware of that.


    In which case, is it my power as the Golden Sovereign after all?


    Yes.


    Song Junghye as she was now could not possibly be the Blood and Iron Queen. That was only possible if she herself gained a tremendous enlightenment or received outside help.


    By my assessment its impossible for her to grow by her own will.


    Her vessel was too small. It was absolutely not a body that could be the Blood and Iron Queen.


    That left one possibility: she had outside help, be it from the explorer Jackson or her grandfather Song Kiyoung.


    If you use that power on me, I will assist Taeguk Shield with all my heart and find the Predator Seeds.


    But using this ability requires an astronomical fortune.


    I will handle the cost.


    You will? Without even knowing how much it is?


    I can guess that it is an amount I can handle.


    If not now, then in the near future. I thought it was well within my capability. Why? Because the Gardens by the Bay Dungeon that would appear in Singapore in the near future would wee me with open arms.


    Thats some impressive ambition you have there. Im sure youre aware that if Im calling it astronomical, it really is an enormous sum.


    I think it will require a fortune of multi-millions, at the very least.


    You wish to use my ability even knowing that?


    I asked back, If I can earn twenty million by investing ten million, isnt it an obvious thing to do?


    Haha,ughed CEO Song as he gazed at me with a half-surprised, half-satisfied look. A man has to wonder just where a monster like you popped out of.


    I heard a notice.[The Merchant of Venice is satisfied with the trade between the two parties.]


    As I thought.


    My prediction was correct.


    I had met CEO Song three times. During the second meeting, the Merchant of Venice was watching me.


    CEO Song must have caught his eye back then.


    There was a very high possibility that the Merchant of Venice liked CEO Song as well. That was why I didnt try to create a situation favorable only for meI still didnt know who the Merchant of Venice liked and treasured more between Song Kiyoung and me.


    Lets start with this, for now.


    We had to write out the terms of our trade in ck and white. The conditions we were both satisfied with were on the table. When those conditions were fulfilled, who would hold the initiative?


    That would be me.


    If I am able to save your life, CEO Song, I began, I trust that you will be generous with yourpensation.


    If he managed a full recovery thanks to my help, that would change things. I would be CEO Songs life savior, so to speak.


    The price of my life, huh.


    Im sure its more valuable than money.


    Shameless, arent you?


    This isnt shamelessness, but a matter of fact.


    CEO Songughed with mirth.


    [The Merchant of Venice is very pleased by your mutually beneficial and cooperative rtionship.]


    [The Merchant of Venice sends you a 300 Coin sponsorship.]


    I made onest demand.


    Please find someone for me.


    With Sungshins abilities, finding a person or two was no problem.


    He is an Italian yer in his mid-20s. It is presumed that he is a sovereign ss, nonbat yer, and his name is Salvatore. That may also be an alias.


    * * *


    * * *


    Yeonseos cheeks were slightly flushed.


    Cheers!


    She hadnt even drunk much. Her cheeks turned that red after two sips of beer.


    Our boss is finally back.


    The full cast of Giantgod Guild was gathered in a fried chicken restaurant in downtown Seoul. That being said, the full cast was just a few people.


    Fuck! Hyukjin! I missed you! ying without you was like dog shit!


    Sung-gu came at me with an embrace, which I nimbly evaded.


    <em>Crash!</em>


    He tumbled pathetically onto the ground, but I didnt give a damn.


    This isnt even pain. Dude, my head was almost blown apart by a Troll Soldier in the Gran Seoul Dungeon. The tank was a ss-A moron.


    He dusted himself off and got up, then tried to ost me again, but Sunhwa stepped in the middle.


    I wont allow you to get any closer to my oppa.


    Fudge. Sunhwa. At least if you were there, Id have been fine.


    Sung-gu held back from hugging Sunhwa.


    If he had


    The Beat em, Beat em, Beat em More ability of the transcendent item Isabel slumbering in my Inventory may have seen the light of day.


    In any case, good work, everyone. You guys went to clear the Gyeonghoeru now and then, yes?


    I could tell from their levels that everyone had worked hard. Most of them had reached level 39 all of a sudden. This speed was really fast for the Hell Phase.


    Only Jo Sunghyuns level was a bit low. He was level 37. It was only a 2 level difference, but in this period where leveling was so hard, a 2 level difference was huge.


    I heard you didnt participate a few times because you had something to do, Sunghyun?


    Yes. There were some things I had to take care of.


    Whatever he went to do must have been very important. This was a kid who disliked falling behind more than anyone. Everyone who had what it took to be a Ranker was fundamentally like that.


    What happened?


    Theres someone Ive been ying with recently.


    Who?


    You probably wont know her. Her name is Hyun Junghwa, an archer. Shes not famous, and her level isnt that high.


    Hyun Junghwa. Archer.


    I know her all too well, Sunghyun.


    For now, I listened to what he had to say.


    And?


    She happens to be doing a scenario rted to the Wind Temple right now.


    Really?


    Ara. Hyun Junghwa was doing a scenario rted to the Wind Temple at this point in time? It could be that she had a Sylphids Wing and had found a secret rted to the bow, as I surmised.


    Tell me when you guys are further along. Im interested in the Wind Temple, too.


    Hyung is, too?


    Yeah. I have an item called Sylphids Wing, and its linked to the Wind Temple.


    Understood. Ill tell you when we get further.


    Yeonseo was still as flushed as ever. Boss Hyukjin. Just when are you gonna have a date with me? You promised, didnt you?


    Did I? What I promised was to have a cup of coffee with her. I dont remember that.


    Hey, you scammer!


    And then, she brandished her sword. That was no ordinary sword. It was the transcendent item Asura.


    If you arent gonna have a date with me, then do a PVP with me.


    How did youe to that conclusion?


    But thinking about it, a PVP was probably better than a date. After all, I didnt feel attracted to Yeonseo. A PVP with her wasnt actually a bad idea. She must have grown quite a lot as well, and there was much to gain from sparring with a PVP specialist of Yeonseos level.


    Whats it gonna be? A date?


    No.


    A PVP, then?


    Yeah, lets do a PVP.


    Really?


    Yeonseos eyes grew wide. I had to admit, the way she blinked in surprise was pretty cute. Her face scrunched into a scowl.


    Aw man, I feel all weird. She scratched her ear. I feel bad, but also happy. What is this?


    She followed up with big gulps of beer. What she was feeling was simple. She felt bad because I was refusing to go on a date with her, because I didnt think of her as a woman. But as a yer, she liked PVPing.


    Seriously, these Rankers are one and the same.


    They were all humans crazy about ying. Only people like this could be Rankers. I felt that truth down to my bones while ying with them. Because I, myself, enjoyed ying. I periodically found myself smiling without realizing it while ying.


    Hyungnim. Let me pour you a drink!


    Yoohyun energetically lifted the three liter pitcher full of beer, only to crush the handle into pieces.


    Aw, man. He hadnt adjusted his strength well. Whyd this thing go and break on me?


    It was probably because this was the transition period. Yoohyun still hadnt fully adjusted to his own strength. No, it was more urate to say the cups and items used in everyday life were far too weak inparison to Yoohyuns strength.


    I remember him saying he struggled a lot with stuff like this in the beginning.


    He identally crushed car handles and bent spoons. He once said he struggled with minor inconveniences like that in his early days.


    Oppa. Are we going to y with you now?


    Sunhwa sat down next to me.Summary: Excited Brocon


    Just when was this kids weird summary going to change? Was it going to take a few years still?


    Yeah. You and I are going to Italy.


    Italy? The mention of Italy seemed to remind her of something. She pulled out her phone, turning the screen towards me. Oppa. This is you, right?


    A Youtube video was ying on the phone, showing the scene where I toppled Berattos gate authority and beat him ck and blue with Isabel.


    Yeah, thats me.


    It was uploaded with the title, The dignity of a Korean archer. Thements say you use the sword, but your true ss is definitely archer.


    ...Where did you find a video like this?


    Huh? It just appeared with some diligent browsing.


    Diligent browsing wasnt enough to find a video like this. Wasnt this more on the level of obsessed browsing?


    I had no idea what kinds of videos were taken of me in Italy, and there werent that many y videos on Youtube yet. It wasnt like I did anything super shy, either. It wasnt even a video taken in Korea, but in Italy. Just how hardcore had she searched in order to find me in a video so obscure? It made me a little fearful of Sunhwas radiant smile.


    There are more than a few views.


    There were about 100,000 views. A middling view count that was neither super high nor super low.


    Sunhwa smiled wide. As expected of Oppa, youre good at everything. Since when did you get so good at the bow?


    I just learned it on the side. By watching how others do it.


    Hihihi.


    For whatever reason, that seemed to make Sunhwa really happy. She ripped into her drumstick.


    Anyway, we concluded our reunion.


    Sunhwa. And Sung-gu. The three of us will be going to Italy.


    Hyungnim! What should your right arm, me, do?!


    Level up. You can stop with the Gran Seoul Dungeon now. Clear the Gyeonghoeru. Just grind.


    Sunghyun would be ying with Hyun Junghwa.


    Boss Hyukjin! What about me? When are we gonna PVP?


    You level with Yoohyun. Ill PVP youter.


    Hng. I wanna go with the Boss, too.


    Ill PVP you as soon as were back.


    You mean it, right? The promise of PVP made a smile bloom on Yeonseos face. Youre really gonna PVP me? Really? Yippee! Prepare yourself. Ill be honing my de.


    Youd think I was giving her a million dors or something, she was so happy. Only Sung-gu looked like he was going to cry.


    Fuck. Youre gonna make me do something dangerous again, right? Without even getting an answer, he shook his head. No, its still better to go into a ruthlessly hard hell gate with you than to y with idiot tanks.


    ...


    He was very good at rambling on his own. I hath received a great enlightenment!


    One day passed. Sunhwa, Sung-gu, and I ported to Italy. We left Italys Tutorial Building. First, we would go to Pompeii, where Salvatore first cleared a Predator Tree Colony in the past.


    But as we left the building, someone approached me almost as if they had been waiting for me.


    Are you Kim Hyukjin?


    I stared at him. As soon as I saw his face, I knew who he was. The famed information merchant of Italy, a merchant ss yer bearing the moniker Info Peddler. He had an item very rare for this time period, a Trantion Marble.


    The yer most cherished by the Merchant of Venice.


    It was Pietro, the merchant Ranker contracted to the Merchant of Venice.

 Chapter 201

    Chapter 201


    I checked his info by activating Eye of Perception.


    [yer]


    Name: Pietro


    Age: 31


    Level: 33


    ss: Information Merchant


    Guardian: Merchant of Venice


    Innate ability: [Forced Trade]


    State: Ambition / Desire / Enterprising


    Disposition: Sincere / Hard-working / Rash


    Summary:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Information Merchant Recruiting an Archer</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Narcissist Brimming with Confidence</li></ol><ul data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 12pt;">


    The disposition/state/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul>


    Pietro. Just like in the past, he was contracted to the Merchant of Venice, and just as his summary showed, he was a famed narcissist. Being a narcissist wasnt necessarily a bad thingit just meant he loved and valued himself. Him being a narcissist or not didnt have much to do with me, anyway. The summary that mattered to me was Information Merchant Recruiting an Archer.


    Ah.


    I recalled the video Sunhwa had shown me, the one with about 100,000 views. Subtracting the overseas views and duplicate views, there had to be at least a few thousand people in Italy who had seen it. Apparently, Pietro had seen it, too.


    I think hes here to recruit me, thinking Im an archer.


    Why?


    What was it called again? The Dewinged Angel Statue Gate?


    I knew most of the events that happened in Korea, but unless they were major events like the Battle of the Maldives, I was rtively uninformed about foreign matters. Even so, I knew the gist of the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate.


    A gate archers from all over the world gathered to challenge and where at least half of them perished.


    When Ibed through my memories, I think I remembered that happening in Italy.


    Seeing as you know my name, you appear to have done your research.


    I apologize if that has offended you.


    Were all Italian people good looking? V was a given, but even the crossdressing Pedro was handsome, and so was Pietro. He was sporting a not-very-tidy bushy beard, but even that added to his charm. How could I describe it? Kinda like a handsome hobo?


    Its alright. Its natural you would be curious about a Korean archer.


    ...State: Slight Surprise / Suspicion


    He seemed to be curious as to how I knew what he was after.


    It looks like you looked into me as an archer.


    The info merchant Pietro was still only level 33, a level you really couldnt expect too much from. He would grow moreter on.


    I looked into you as an archer with a special power. Looking at your ying, you appear to possess close-ranged martial arts but in reality, you seem closer to a sovereign.


    Oho, he was still pretty impressive. We werent even from the same country, but he was able to find this much intel on a nameless yer in a differentnd. The guy was indeed a cut above the rest.


    Youve looked into me quiteprehensively. Then you must know about my talent te result as well?


    Yes. I know you received a [No Talent] assessment.


    Goodness, he had gathered quite a lot of intel on me. It wasnt special info, but still, extracting such detail on an individual from another country was no easy feat.


    But why are you trying to recruit me?


    ...I havent said anything about that yet.


    A war was not fought only with swords. When fighting a glib talker, you had to fight with words, and when fighting an information merchant, you had to fight with info.


    With an intentional smile, I said, Looks like you didnt know my ss also deals with info.


    That wasnt always in my ss description, but I decided to include it from now on.


    ...


    Pietro was taken aback. It was natural, since my ss wasnt about handling information. I just knew a lot of info. You could call it a regressor perk.


    I wasnt able to find that out.


    Youre gathering archers all over the world, yes? To clear a gate.


    ...Thats correct.


    The name of that gate Im not 100% sure, but I have a feeling its the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate.


    ...


    The information merchant stared at me, stunned. He didnt intentionally try to hide his expression.


    Could it be that youre not an archer, a martial artist, or a sovereign, but an information merchant?


    No, thats not it.


    Then what are you?


    Is that important to you?


    After a moment of thought, Pietro shook his head. Its not.


    I thought so. Whats important to you is my ability as an archer.


    I was dominating this conversation. Unfortunately for Pietro, I had the upper hand when it came to information. From the very moment my information exceeded that of an information merchant, he was no match for me.


    Ill cut to the chase, I said. I rmend not going into the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate.


    In the past, nearly half of the archers died without anything to show for it. All the survivors were united in what they said afterwardsthat they would never, ever go back in.


    Howe?


    The risk is too great, and theres nothing to gain from it.


    May I ask what evidence you are basing your judgment on?


    I smiled wide. If the information merchant Pietro wants information, he should make a trade with information of his own. Is it okay for you to panhandle?


    ...


    Pietros eyes widened. He didnt particrly try to hide his expression, instead naively expressing his surprise.


    Did I ever tell you my name?


    I shrugged. Like I said, I also handle information.


    Astonishing. Truly astonishing. To think you already knew about me. Haha. Hahaha.


    As I watched Pietro giving a stupefiedugh, I offered him a word of advice.


    The Merchant of Venice is watching.


    Was this situation really one that the Merchant of Venice would like? No. The initiative was overwhelmingly on my side. Pietro had to exert himself as an information merchant, so as to not shame himself. Because the Merchant of Venices favorite wasnt me, but him.


    It doesnt matter. The current me cant win against you anyway. The information you possess far outstrips the information I possess.


    ...


    Its fine. Sometimes, its better to simply admit defeat.


    That made sense. I didnt have a 100% understanding of the Merchant of Venice. It could be that the Merchant of Venice actually liked Pietros attitude. After all, each Guardians personality was different.


    In any case, allow me to propose a trade, as you rmended.


    Go ahead.


    If you tell me why the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate is dangerous, I will tell you about the man you are looking for, Salvatore.


    Ara. He had dug up that much? He was still rough around the edges, but he was indeed a future Ranker.


    Very well.


    The deal was established.


    I have special eyes. It probably wasnt totally unknown news to Pietro, since I myself had mentioned my special eyes several times. They possess an [Authority of Intuition].


    Intuition. The dictionary definition was<em> the ability to understand something without the need for ones senses, experience, association, judgment, or inference.</em>


    In other words, I can just tell by looking.


    So the reliability of the information drops sharply. Since its intuition.


    I thought he would say that. I showed him another of my cards.


    Its just like how I can simply see that you have an innate ability called [Forced Trade].


    ...


    Pietro flinched. He was speechless for a long time. He finally opened his mouth.


    It appears that intuition is certainly a thing.


    As you can see.


    I could even read his level, but I didnt tell him that much.


    Very well. I will give you the information about Salvatore.


    Our conversation went on longer than I expected. Meeting Pietro was an extremely good thing for me, since I was able to find out Salvatores identity even before CEO Song investigated for me. After a long conversation, we shook hands.


    Ill leave it to you.


    * * *


    * * *


    Cheon Sooji was extremely annoyed. People kept calling out to her wherever she went, and men of all ages, young and old, resorted to any means to talk to her, hoping to get close.


    Why are these damn Italians so annoying?


    She would have liked to stick a poisoned needle into each of their clueless foreheads, but she held back. This was a foreign server, and she at least knew it wasnt a good idea to make a ruckus here.


    Yeah, fuck off. Im not interested.


    I said, fuck off.


    I dont like you guys.


    She walked like a haughty, untouchable rose. No matter how she looked at it, there werent any guys quite like Kim Hyukjin, a man who wasnt like these bees that were swarming her, but a flower she wanted to approach. Thinking about him made her heart pound. This kind of feeling, was it a first for her?


    Mr. Kim Hyukjin!


    Her footsteps quickened. An annoying kid was clinging to Hyukjinthe genius tank, Kim Sunhwa. As Hyukjins legal sister, she was a truly irritating pest, a girl who interfered every time Sooji tried to get close to Hyukjin. However, she kept a smile on her face.


    If you want to kill the general, you have to shoot the horse.


    Whether she liked Kim Sunhwa or not, Sunhwa was Hyukjins little sister, and if Sooji wanted a chance with Hyukjin, she had to treat her well.


    Youre here too, Sunhwa? Youre getting prettier with every passing day.


    If the guild members of Taeguk Shield were to see her right now, they would probably be rubbing their eyes. After all, Sooji was a thorny rose who never showed such a tender side.


    The Poison Witch pulled out fried chicken from her Inventory, putting a faint smile on her lips.


    Here, a gift.


    She tempted the kid with chicken, then went to talk business with Kim Hyukjin.


    CEO Song sent me.


    Did he?


    Yes. Im bringing information on Salvatore, but Salvatore is


    An alias, right?


    ...Huh? You already knew? Sooji stealthily went up to Hyukjins side. I hear youre going to Pompeii on this trip.


    ...


    Are you perhaps in need of my assistance?


    It would be great if Cheon Sooji apanied them, since having Rot Water on tap was very handy for hunting Predator Trees.


    Do you happen to have any Rot Water with you?


    Yes, of course. I made it in advance.


    Cheon Sooji sidled a little closer to him, almost close enough for their shoulders and arms to touch. A distance close enough for some stealthy skinship.


    But I wont just give it to you for free. Im not a pushover.


    Then dont, its fine.


    Hyukjin coldly turned around. Rot Water was crucial in the past, but not anymore. Their levels were way higher than back then, and he was confident he could hunt the Predator Trees no problem. It was nice to have Rot Water, but it was perfectly fine to go without.


    Wait, hold up! Here. Ill give it to you. I can just give it to you, right?


    Thank you.


    ...


    Sooji looked at him sulkily before opening her mouth. When will youe have a drink with me?


    When the opportunityes.


    Opportunities donte, theyre made.


    Im busy.


    Even in the night, when youre alone?


    Im very busy.


    Why was thisdy so impatient to get a piece of him, really?


    Cheon Sooji unconsciously licked her lips. She liked this feeling. It really had been such a long time since she met a man who didnt cling desperately to her, a man who became harder to approach the closer she got. She liked him so much, she nearly forgot herself in excitement.


    Youre as charming as ever.


    As he watched, Choi Sung-gu could no longer repress his bafflement. <em>Thats </em>charming?


    What part of that was charming?


    Its obvious he doesnt like her.


    Sung-gu really couldnt wrap his mind around why thisdy saw that as charming. What did a woman as beautiful and capable as Cheon Soojick, that she was going this far?


    Though its true Hyukjins a massive monster.


    Even so, he couldnt understand why such a beautiful woman was so desperate, especially when she was the ck Rose of Taeguk Shield, Cheon Sooji.


    Haah, whatever.


    He had nothing to do with it. In the end, Hyukjin got Rot Water from Sooji and refused her desire to y together. Sung-gu could only feel admiration that wasnt quite admiration as he watched.


    A woman so beautiful was asking that earnestly, but he rejected her just like that You gotta wonder sometimes if this dude is really a man.


    * * *


    Transportation was handled via the car V brought. For reference, V was a beginner driver, and he was nervous the entire drive.


    Clutching the steering wheel with both hands, he said, Dont worry. We wont die even if we crash! Trust me! Weve even got a tank here, dont we?


    We finally reached the ancient ruins, Pompeii. And when we arrived, Pedro was waiting for us.


    I heard you were looking for me, Hyukjin.


    Yes, thats right.


    Since when have you been in contact with the ck Butterfly Guild? Are you not a Korean native?


    The ck Butterfly. It was the name of the guild run by Pietro. Pietro was definitely doing his job well, it seemed.


    I sort of just ran into them. We met for the first time today.


    There was a man in his mid-20s standing next to Pedro.


    Found you.


    The Wargod Salvatore.


    That man was here. The name Salvatore was an alias, a fake name.


    His real name was Chiellini, but that little detail wasnt important. In any case, Chiellini, the Salvatore I remembered, was indeed acquainted with V.


    V shot a re.


    Why are <em>you</em> here?

 Chapter 202

    Chapter 202


    Salvatore was Vsplete opposite.


    The Wargod, Salvatore.


    The adjectives that matched him were cold-blooded or cool-headed. Rational. Extremely practical. Words like that. In the future, at least.


    The one and only exception is


    He only ever showed agitation when it had to do with V. The two of them shared a deep-seated enmity. That was the Salvatore Hyukjin remembered.


    Why are <em>you </em>here?


    Why? Am I not allowed to be here?


    Salvatores hackles also went up as soon as he saw V. Hyukjin wasnt all that interested in their spiteful rtionship.


    Nice to meet you. Im Kim Hyukjin, a yer from Korea.


    ...


    Salvatore stared at Hyukjin, who continued, I am a yer with a close rtionship to the Conductor of Sound.


    Everyone casually introduced themselves.


    Im Choi Sung-gu, the Jayangdong Fire Master. Im a magician whos he good at handling fire.


    Nice to meet you. My name is Kim Sunhwa. Im a tank, and Hyukjins little sister.


    With the greetings out of the way, Salvatore nodded, his eyes on Hyukjin. I heard a lot about you from Pedro.


    You did?


    Yes. To tell you the truth, I knew you woulde here. I heard that youre looking for something in Pompeii.


    Pedro stepped in. Ahem ahem. Just to prevent any misunderstandings, I only ryed what the Astrologist Itachi said. A manly man doesnt do any pointless gossipping.


    What did Itachi say?


    What had the genius short-lived astrologist said? Pedro pulled out a note, a piece of paper called a precognitive note or a prophecy. It was a note imbued with the mystical power of future sight.


    <em>A meeting urs before the cornerstone of an ash-covered temple.</em>


    <em>If they meet as enemies, so shall a congration of hellmence.</em>


    <em>If they meet as friends, so shall the hymn of heaven ring.</em>


    This is what Itachi wrote, said Pedro. The subject is this guy right here, Chiellini.


    V huffed at that. But Pedro, <em>Im </em>your friend. Whyre you looking at this guys future for him?


    I asked about yours, too.


    But whyd you also look at his?


    Dont question what a manly man does. You wanna get hit?


    ...


    The future Fight King shut his mouth. Hyukjin could see that Salvatore had a faint smile on his face despite being famous for being able to maintain a poker face at all times.


    Its an intentional provocation. Hyukjin realized something. Those two know that Pedro is a woman. And theres a very high chance theyve known for a really long time.


    He didnt know what history these three shared. But he judged that Pedro was in the middle of it, and was part of the reason why V and Salvatores rtionship had be so foul.


    I can see the astrologists words are very meaningful.


    <em>Ash-covered.</em>


    That had to be referring to Pompeii, the city that was wiped out by volcanic ash.


    <em>A meeting urs before the temples cornerstone.</em>


    Hyukjin knew there was a temple in Pompeii. He thought of the precognitive note again.


    To think he could write such a specific note.


    Geniuses really were geniuses. In Hyukjins opinion, a prophecy of this level was extremely concrete.


    <em>If they meet as enemies, so shall a congration of hellmence.</em>


    <em>If they meet as friends, so shall the hymn of heaven ring.</em>


    This prophecy was made from Salvatores perspective.


    Is the enemy or friend here referring to me?


    It could be Hyukjin, or someone else here. For example, it could also be someone like Sunhwa or V.


    But seeing as a hymn is mentioned, theres a high chance its me.


    The faint smile gone from his face, Chiellini (Salvatore) said, What is it that you are looking for in Pompeii, Hyukjin?


    Im looking for the [Predator Tree Colony]. Or the [Battlefield of Crows].


    Now, what did he know? Kim Hyukjin examined Salvatores expression.


    ...


    Salvatore stared back, expressionless. He was an expert in expressions and was confident in his poker face, but unfortunately, Hyukjin was a master of observation who exceeded him.


    Hes flustered.


    From that, Hyukjin was able to tell that Salvatore was indeed looking for the Predator Tree Colony.


    Judging by your expression, you appear to have been looking for the Predator Tree Colony as well. You flinched when I mentioned it.


    ...Yes.


    Then were looking for the same thing.


    ording to the info Hyukjin got from the master of ck Butterfly, Pietro, Salvatore had been looking here for a week already. In other words, hede up empty-handed for an entire week.


    Would you like to work together? Hyukjin asked.


    I refuse.


    May I ask why?


    V. I dont want to work with him.


    V will be leaving to work on his own scenario.


    V stared at Hyukjin. His mouth opened. I will? Why? was written all over his face, but Hyukjinpletely ignored it, upon which V looked stunned. He thought, Why do I have to get kicked out? but he didnt cause a fuss.


    He just mumbled to himself, But I even did the driving.


    It had taken him a great deal of courage to learn how to drive. But despiteing all the way here, he was being sent back like a taxi driver.


    Chiellini (Salvatore)s eyes narrowed. Whats going on? That reckless simpleton wasnt throwing a tantrum. V was someone you couldntmunicate in regr human speech with, much less converse with. That was how Salvatore defined him, but that very V was meekly standing down.


    Seeing as he said hes connected to the Conductor of Sound Salvatore came to a conclusion. He must know Im contracted to the Conductor of Sound.


    There was no way for him to check how Hyukjin got that information. To borrow something Pedro said, Kim Hyukjin had special eyes, through which he had a unique ability to garner information.


    Shall we work together?


    His search hade up empty for a whole week. He had to find the Predator Tree Colony, but he couldnt find any clues. But that alone wasnt sufficient reason to work together. If they cooperated, they would also have to share the rewards.


    I have already cleared the Predator Tree Colony before.


    ...Is that so?


    In the Korean server.


    So there was a Predator Tree Colony in Korea as well. Thats very different from my understanding.


    Fields bearing the same name did not exist. For Salvatore, that was fact. Hyukjin nodded.


    That understanding doesnt apply in Korea.


    What do you mean?


    In Italy, there arent fields or dungeons with the same name and same contents. Correct?


    Salvatore nodded. Actually, that wasnt just an Italy thingit was like that in most countries, to the point that it had almost be an established fact.


    Korea is different. Two instances of the exact same gate, a gate called the Centipede Cave, have already been discovered. Here is proof that I know the Predator Tree Colony.


    [Map of the Predator Tree Colony, Addended]


    A Predator Tree Colony is a forest with many Predator Trees. Rapundels father made a Predator Tree Colony for his daughter because Predator Tree Seeds were known to be effective against Red Flower Tears. An artificially created Predator Tree Colony has a lifespan of three hundred years at most. The Predator Trees are unable to maintain the ecosystem for longer than that and perish.


    Hyukjin brought up the elephant in the room.


    I need Predator Tree Seeds. I dont need anything else.


    ...


    The fact that Predator Tree Seeds were effective against Red Flower Tears wasnt discovered even in the future. Based on that, it was clear that Salvatore was currently looking for something that wasnt the Predator Tree Seeds.


    * * *


    * * *


    Do you know why I am telling you this?


    Arent you saying you will only take the Predator Tree Seeds and concede the other rewards, so we should form a party?


    That is correct.


    What do you have to gain from doing that?


    Hyukjin only wanted the seeds, nothing else. It was an overwhelmingly good deal for Salvatore, which made him suspicious.


    V grumbled on the side. Tch, seriously. You damn coward. You should just ept the offer, whyre you talking so much? Just cut off your dick, dude. This is why youre no good.


    Hyukjin smiled. Because I somehow have the feeling we can be good friends?


    ...


    To be honest, that prophetic note makes me a little anxious.


    <em>If they meet as enemies, so shall a congration of hellmence.</em>


    <em>If they meet as friends, so shall the hymn of heaven ring.</em>


    The prophecy was actually an excuse. The reason Hyukjin wanted to work with Salvatore was because Salvatore had cleared it in the past. With enough time, Salvatore would find the Predator Tree Colony on his own, and he would also clear it on his own. Hyukjin was just trying to hitch a free ride. There was no need to go around in circles when there was a safe, convenient shortcut right in front of you.


    I have an ability called Conductors Hymn.


    Salvatore probably had the ability as well. And it was just as Hyukjin thoughtSalvatore did indeed have it. However, he didnt reveal it, since there was no real need to.


    Hyukjin drove the wedge into the crack.


    Salvatore. You are different from V.


    V scowled. What was Hyukjin going to say? His heart started to thump out of anxiety that he would bepared to that coward.


    V has a genius battle sense that shines in 1 on 1.


    Vs frown brightened into a shit-eating grin. <em>Of course, of course, Im pretty good at fighting.</em> He silently pped himself on the back with pride.


    But youre different. You have a power that shines not in 1 on 1, but in a group battle. That is why you and I have to y together.


    How did you find out what my ability is?


    You heard from Pedro, didnt you? I have special eyes. Hyukjin grinned. The fish was all reeled in. A sovereign can recognize another sovereign.


    ...A sovereign?


    Pedro, V, and even Salvatore turned in unison to stare at Hyukjin, who shrugged.


    In Korea, Im known as a sovereign.


    Pedro shook his head. But I thought you were an archer


    That was why he gave Hyukjin Sylphids Wing as a gift. V shook his head as well, thinking there wasnt another human like this one anywhere in the world.


    I thought he was an archer at first, too.


    But he says hes a sovereign


    Hes also stronger than me in directbat.


    Salvatore doubted his own ears. <em>That </em>V recognized someone as being stronger? For V to admit it so simply, Kim Hyukjin had to have truly overwhelmed him. Otherwise, V would never have acknowledged him.


    Pedro pped three times. Youre a true manly man, arent you?


    His gaze fell on Hyukjin, his eyes bearing quite a lot of goodwill. Of course, no one here could understand why Pedro pped thereeven Pedro himself didnt know. He just thought it was appropriate for a manly man to p.


    Suddenly remembering, V said, He also uses magic.


    V had seen it, no doubt about it. The bright-red mes that swallowed the murky lights in the hidden field of the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    I saw him use fire magic.


    No wonder.


    Pedro understood Vs words. No wonder. That was why Hyukjin went up to Athenae.


    Then just what in the world does that make him?


    There didnt seem to be anything he <em>couldnt</em>do.


    I dunno, a man of many talents whos good at fighting?


    Hyukjin felt a little embarrassed as he watched V and Pedro nonchntly discussing him right in front of him.


    Ahem ahem. He coughed twice to get everyones attention. How about it? Do you feel any inclination to work with me now? I think theres definitely something to learn from working with another sovereign.


    He said one more thing, intentionally emphasizing the words as a provocation.


    Because at least at this point in time, my ability as a sovereign exceeds yours.

 Chapter 203

    Chapter 203


    Pedro wanted to cut in, but was unable to.


    Sovereign?


    The most outstanding sovereign ss yer he knew was of course Chiellini (Salvatore). When they cleared the Dourdan Gate together in the past, the whole party would have probably been wiped out if Chiellini hadnt been there. Such was the power of the sovereign ss, which shined whenmanding other yers.


    But Hyukjin is also one?


    Whats more, Hyukjin was saying this:


    <em>Because at least at this point in time, my ability as a sovereign exceeds yours.</em>


    Unable to hold back, Pedro butted in. Everyone was just epting the revtion as a matter of fact, but what would that make him, the person who gifted a sovereign a bow?


    I should have given him something better than a bow.


    This would be a stain on his manly man name.


    But Hyukjin, whatll be of Sylphids Wing then?


    Im making good use of it. You saw it too, didnt you?


    Hyukjin shattered Berattos authority with Sylphids Wing, then beat the hapless sop ck and blue with Isabel. Even Sunhwa had discovered that footage.


    Yeah, thats true, but Now that Hyukjin said he wasnt an archer, but a sovereign, Pedro still felt a little bad. If you return it to me, Ill get you something better.


    Hyukjin grinned. Youll give me something better if I give it back?


    Yes, Ill procure something better, whatever it may be. Maybe a sovereign exclusive?


    That does sound nice, but


    Hyukjin actually wanted Sylphids Wing, since he would also be able to get a scenario rted to the Wind Temple. However, he packaged his intent differently.


    Wouldnt it wound a manly mans pride if they take back something thats been given away?


    Th-Thats


    Im just concerned your pride will take a hit out of greed to give me something good.


    Pedro nodded. That was true. When he thought about it, his manly man pride would certainly be tarnished. Manly men never took back what was given. That was the manly man way he(she) upheld as truth.


    N-Now that I think about it, youre right. Pedro broke into a big grin. In that case, this manly man will procure something better for you without taking the bow back.


    Im really grateful for your kindness. A manly mans generosity really is on a different level.


    Everyone standing next to the brightly grinning Pedro looked on with stunned faces. Were they watching highway extortion happening right in front of them? Even the naive V had the feeling something was wrong here, which said enough about the situation. V spoke up with a cough.


    Anyway, I wannae too.


    You cant.


    Why not?


    Because Chiellini doesnt want you to.


    Thats not my problem.


    Sung-gu nodded firmly. I get you, brother.


    The me magician had seriously been to hell and back in the Gran Seoul Dungeon. ying with people other than Hyukjin was frustrating as all hell. ying with Hyukjin was the best, no matter what.


    Because thats the sweetest and easiest road!


    No matter what happened, no matter what obstacles appeared, Sung-gu vowed time and time again that he would always y with Kim Hyukjin.


    Like I said, ying with others after ying with you is enough to drive a person mad. Right, V?


    V extended a hand to Sung-gu. You know your stuff, man.


    Heh. Shabam, d were on the same wavelength. Youre a dashing fellow.


    V and Sung-gu unintentionally ended up sympathizing with one another and came to a mutual understanding. Hyukjin gave up on convincing V with words. Any additional attempts were a waste of time.


    V.


    What?


    You good at fighting?


    ... V paused, feeling strange. It was odd to hear those wordsing from someone else. I am.


    Better than me?


    ...


    V had no choice but to shut his mouth. He had long since fully acknowledged defeat. V saw Hyukjin as an expert of closebat martial arts several levels above himself.


    No.


    If youre better at fighting than me, thene. If youre not, then leave.


    Cmon man, think about it. How many people out there are better at fighting than you?


    So? You good at fighting?


    Chiellini (Salvatore) watched that ridiculous conversation in silence. He knows exactly how to handle V.


    It looked immature, but there was no better way to handle this simpleton. The problem was just that there werent many people strong enough to make V submit.


    In any case, Hyukjin wrapped up the issue of Vs participation with You good at fighting?


    With that, a party of fourKim Hyukjin, Chiellini, Choi Sung-gu, and Kim Sunhwawasposed. Pedro had a quest from Elder Bufafa, so he went to the Winter Castle.


    Then first, lets look for the gate.


    The archeological site of Pompeii.


    They spent three days there.


    * * *


    * * *


    Chiellini (Salvatore) thought to himself, Lets see if theres really something for me to learn.


    It was his first time meeting a yer who imed they were a better sovereign than him, and with such brazen confidence. He decided to see for himself just how amazing this Hyukjin really was. Nothing hade of their search yet, even after three days.


    Hyukjin found himself considering something drastic. Do I need to ask Jackson for help?


    But he couldnt call Jackson for everything. Jackson hadnt been here when Salvatore cleared it in the past. That meant it was possible even without Jackson.


    Oppa, my legs hurt. Can I go take a break over there? asked Sunhwa.


    Go ahead.


    Sung-gu was about to interject with Eh? How does that make any sense? But Hyukjin stopped him. Actually, Sung-gu was right. Sunhwa was a tank.


    Her physical endurance and stamina are at least my level.


    But her legs suddenly hurt? It was strange. As a result, Sunhwas words caught Hyukjins attention. He clearly remembered how they stumbled on the Turtle Nest in Japan before. They had gone to the gyukatsu restaurant because Sunhwa suddenly said she wanted to eat gyukatsu, only to find a gate there.


    Ill find out in due time.


    Hyukjin walked forward, judging that he would soon find the reason why Sunhwa the tank, a girl with very high physical stats, suddenly felt that her legs were aching.


    This ce


    Before him was the Basilica, a building structured in a way you wouldmonly associate with a temple. The massive construction was originally dozens of long pirs propping up one rectangr building.


    Weve already been here multiple times.


    All of the pirs had crumbled, leaving not a single one intact. There was, of course, no ceiling. Only remnants of pirs remained in regrly spaced intervals.


    And sitting in front of one of those cornerstones was Sunhwa.


    Hyukjin was able to discover something there.


    Theres a strange shimmering here.


    It was very faint, but there was definitely something there.


    Its not a gate.


    But it might be some kind of key that could open the gate.


    Just then, Chiellini said, The map in my possession is reacting.


    They had found it. The entrance of the gate.


    * * *


    Hyukjin stared at the activated gate. Unlike Sung-gu and Salvatore, he wasnt astonished or stunned. If it happened once, he might just think it was odd, but if it happened twice, it was no longer a coincidence, but inevitable. Sunhwa had a special ability no one, perhaps not even herself, had discovered yet.


    The person in question had no idea what she had done.


    Huh? A gate?


    The gate opened in response to Salvatores map.


    [Predator Tree Colony]


    A gate to teleport to the Predator Tree Colony.


    Entrance conditions:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    The activator (party) of the gate, and at least level 30.</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    One who has hunted a Predator Tree before, and at least level 30.</li></ol>


    Only yers who have fulfilled 1) or 2) can enter.


    Hyukjin stroked Sunhwas head once.


    Well done.


    Did I do that?


    Yeah.


    Sunhwa didnt really know what she did, but she was happy to be praised. The 14-year-old girl was hungry for her brothers praise.


    Chiellini took the lead with a bitter face.


    Lets go in.


    Hyukjin followed him, saying, The description is totally the same as the Predator Tree Colony I experienced in Korea.[Entering the Predator Tree Colony.]


    The field changed to a humid and dark cave, as one would expect from a ce inhabited by Predator Trees. Hyukjins Eye of Perception captured many presences, but they werent dangerous ones.


    Its the same as before.


    They were all Predator Trees at the end of their 300 year lifespan. These Predator Trees that someone had artificially cultivated were truly easy prey.


    I will not participate in directbat, said Hyukjin. In other words, I wont personally attack.


    Howe?


    So that the rewards arent split to me. I promised, after all.


    Though if he was being honest, it was because he wouldnt get any EXP if he hunted them himself.


    Granted, Hyukjin currently had the elixir called Freedom. If he used it, he could delete his cannot receive EXP penalty. He was aware of that, but he was temporarily holding onto it since it wasnt urgent. In any case, he couldnt get EXP right now if he did the hunting.


    Of course, theres nothing I can do about the EXP I get indirectly or any rewards given directly to me, but I want to concede as much of the rewards as I can to you.


    ...I see.


    Chiellini nodded, thinking Hyukjin was definitely someone who honored his irond promises.


    That being said, will you permit Sung-gu to do the DPSing for efficient hunting?


    Of course.


    It would take too long to clear this ce without an outstanding DPS anyway.


    I also happen to have an item perfect for hunting Predator Trees.


    They sprayed the Rot Water Hyukjin had gotten from Cheon Sooji here and there. Not long after, Chiellini also caught onto the fact that something was off about the field.


    The state of the monsters is strange.


    Of course.


    Dont we have to be careful?


    No. Theyre old and sick right now.


    Any possibility theres a trap?


    None.


    How can you be so sure?


    Its exactly the same as the ce I cleared.


    Not only that, but Hyukjins Eye of Perception was far more developed than when he cleared the Predator Tree Colony before. His abilities themselves were stronger than back then.


    How can you be sure with just that? Its better to not take action than to take action that is too bold.


    Hyukjin intentionally grinned. He had already known that Salvatore would respond this way. It was an extremely normal reaction. There was nothing to lose from being careful. That was natural.


    This is why I told you to learn from me.


    What do you mean?


    I will teach you that sometimes, bold decisions are necessary.


    That was something the Salvatore he remembered had said.


    <em>If I could go back to the past, I wouldnt be so excessively cautious. Looking back, there were many lives that could not be saved because of what I prided as cool-headed thinking. I was unable to acquire more rewards I could have gained. Like the Predator Tree Colony, for example.</em>


    Salvatore said he regretted that he didnt clear it faster.


    As well as the ability to see the bigger picture. Though of course, thats not something I can guarantee youll learn just because Im teaching it.


    Salvatore bit his lips a little. Just where was this reckless confidenceing from?


    Lets wait and see.


    He wanted to see just how safely and decisively the other sovereign would clear this ce, just how much ability as a sovereign Hyukjin could show, and whether that was sufficient justification for such confident ims.


    Ten minutester, Chiellini''s mouth fell open.


    No way.


    The Predator Tree Colony was perfectly cleared. A firestorm swept through the field, and then the gate was finished.


    [You have sessfully hunted all Predator Trees of the Predator Tree Colony.]


    [The Clear Crystal is being generated.]


    And then came another notice.[This is a special field with a reward acquisition based on clear time condition.]


    Chiellini stared speechlessly at Hyukjin. The other sovereign was smiling faintly, as if he had already known this would happen. That expression seemed to be saying, Heard that notice?


    Whats with this person?


    But it didnt stop there. Yet another notice came in to notify them that the contribution of each yer in clearing the Predator Tree would be personally calcted by the System.[Determining contribution.]


    That eased Chiellini''s sense of defeat a little.


    Ill definitely be the winner here, at least.


    Up until that point, Chiellini was sure of that.

 Chapter 204

    Chapter 204


    <em>About ten minutes ago.</em>


    Chiellini (Salvatore) and I used Conductors Hymn simultaneously, which made the Conductor of Sound very happy.


    [The Conductor of Sound is very satisfied.]


    It wasnt clear yet who was the favorite and who was the second-favorite, but I knew the Conductor of Sound was surely delighted to see his two most favored yers joining forces to clear the Predator Colony with Conductors Hymn. More than anything, the Guardian was probably relishing his sense of superiority over the White Hunter. After all, a famous Italian yer and I were using the same ability given by the Conductor of Sound.


    Nice.


    It was good to stimte the two rivals like this. I was very pleased with this situation. But there was something else I was happy about.


    As I was casting Conductors Hymn, I came up with a new way to use it. If you knew 1+1, you knew 1+2.


    It can be stacked with the title effect of Pure Person of Fire.


    That was because the target I was strengthening was the me Lord Choi Sung-gu, though of course, me Lord was an exaggerated title for the current Sung-gu.


    Fudge. Can I light it up?


    Wait a moment.


    Rot Water had been sprinkled in every corner. While doing so, wed hunted the insect mobs in the area and scattered them around. If used inbination with Rot Water, we could create a powerful explosion.


    I recalled the specifics of the Pure Person of Fire title.


    [Pure Person of Fire]


    A glorious title that greatly increases ones affinity and ability to utilize the fire attribute. Only those who create a pure attribute Ring of Fire can acquire this title, which elevates all abilities rted to the fire attribute by one level.


    *Special skill: Can use me of Purification.


    I grinned.


    A title that greatly increases affinity and ability to utilize the fire attribute.


    I activated Observers Eye.


    [Using the innate ability Unique Ability Fusion.]


    I used the innate power of an Observer to join two unique abilities and amplify their effects, stacking my Pure Person of Fire title onto Conductors Hymn.


    And


    This wasnt the end. Having used Unique Ability Fusion a few times, I could see the path. If you knew 1+1 and 1+2, then it was now time to learn 1x2.


    If I fuse them like this


    Could I fuse another thing, bringing up the total fused abilities to three? Of course, that process was far more difficult, just like how a cubic equation was far harder than a quadratic one.


    Its doable though?


    I guided the energy in my body with ease. Eye of Perception and Observers Eye precisely read the flow of power.


    [Using the innate ability Unique Ability Fusion.]


    Magicians had a thing called simulcasting. If you prepared and used two spells at once, it was called double casting, and for three spells, triple casting.


    If magicians can do it, so can I.


    And in the end, I pulled it off.


    [Stacking the title effect of Excellent yer onto Modified Conductors Hymn.]


    [Unique Ability Fusion was sessful.]


    My head hurt. My eyes throbbed. It certainly wasnt a walk in the park. But I managed it.


    Conductors Hymn.


    Pure Person of Fire.


    Excellent yer.


    I buffed my teammates with Conductors Hymn, greatly strengthened Sung-gu with Pure Person of Fire, and applied the effects of Excellent yer on top.


    [+20% additional damage]


    [+20% movement speed]


    [+10% EXP]


    I gave the signal.


    Now.


    * * *


    * * *


    At Hyukjins signal, Sung-gu lit a firestorm that hed had plenty of time to prepare without any enemies nearby.


    <em>Fwoooosh!</em>


    Powerful mes and heat began to billow up. As he watched under Sunhwas protection, Salvatore felt himself swallow.


    This


    Was this the power of a Korean fire magician?


    I knew they tended to have particrly exceptional individuals, but


    He had heard that Korean yers tended to have more outstanding individualbat prowess inparison to Italy.


    These are crazy mes.


    He had no idea they would be <em>this </em>strong. The firestorm that raged was far too stronghed never seen a fire spell so powerful and thought it was all Sung-gu.


    [Predator Tree has been killed.]


    As Hyukjin promised, he didnt directly hunt. Chiellini, Sung-gu, and Sunhwa moved together to finish off the Predator Trees on the verge of death.


    Sung-gu himself was just as shocked as Chiellinino, he was <em>more</em> shocked.


    Was my magic this he strong?


    No, it wasnt this level. He was well aware of that. He might have also had Chiellini (Salvatore)s help, but Hyukjin must have given him a huge push.


    As I thought, I gotta y with Hyukjin.


    His bewilderment quickly dissipated. This was how it always was when you yed with Hyukjin. Time and time again, he would show you a new world you hadnt even begun to imagine. This was how ying should be; Sung-gu really couldnt stand working with other guys.


    In any case, the party finished hunting the Predator Trees with great ease.


    [This is a special field with a reward acquisition based on clear time condition.]


    [Determining contribution of yers in the Predator Tree Colony clear.]


    Chiellini inwardly anticipated hising victory. He acknowledged that Kim Hyukjin was a jack of all trades, but being a jack of all trades meant they werecking inprehension and focus in certain areas, right? It was already hard enough to dig one well in this world. If you tried to dig more than one, they were bound to be shallow.


    Chiellini was sure of it.


    My buff was surely way stronger.


    Chiellini didnt just use Conductors Hymn. He brought out every sovereign ability he had in his arsenal. Hyukjins words were still ringing in his ears.


    <em>Because at least at this point in time, my ability as a sovereign exceeds yours.</em>


    He hadnt forgotten those words. The contribution would prove it. That Kim Hyukjin was arrogant.


    [Contribution allocation has been concluded.]


    The System determined the contribution and shared it.<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Kim Hyukjin: 38%</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Choi Sung-gu: 25%</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Chiellini: 25%</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Kim Sunhwa: 11%</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Darongi: 1%</li></ol>


    Chiellini couldnt ept it. He and Sung-gu were tied for 2nd ce. To make things worse, Hyukjin in 1st ce had a 13% lead.


    But something even more shocking happened.


    [The special reward condition of the Predator Tree Colony, Clear Time, is in effect.]


    [The special reward condition allows contribution to be conceded to another yer.]


    [The grade of the reward increases with higher contribution.]


    [If ones contribution exceeds 50%, the grade of the reward will increase markedly.]


    That much was fine, but then Kim Sunhwa shouted with not a single second of hesitation, All my contribution is Oppas!


    which instantly brought Hyukjins contribution to 49%. Sung-gu thought hard for a moment.


    Yeah, Id be a traitor if I didnt give this, right?


    Sung-gu was confident he was someone who could draw the big picture. This small sacrifice now would surelye back as a bigger return. The clear today had only confirmed his beliefKim Hyukjin was someone he had to cling to as apanion for life. Only then would Sung-gu be set for life.


    Ill give you my contribution, too.


    And so, Hyukjins contribution ended up reaching a whopping 74%.[If ones contribution exceeds 70%, the grade of the reward will once again increase markedly.]


    In the end, Hyukjin took 74% of the contribution. Chiellini felt bitter.


    Whats with these guys?


    It was scary. At this point, it was scary. The Predator Tree Colony was undoubtedly a fairly high level hunting ground, and the rewards would naturally be good, too. But he had just witnessed the two yers give all their rewards to Hyukjin without hesitation.


    Koreans he thought honestly, are scary.


    It was obvious from this one situation. This young girls tanking ability seemed better than Italys cream of the crop tanks, and the fire magician was powerful beyond imagination. Kim Hyukjin was an archer/martial artist/swordsman/Precognitive Dreamer/sovereign, but each and every one of his abilities exceeded that of top Rankers.


    But theyre not famous.


    How was it that yers of this level were basically unknown? Most people would say the most famous guilds in Korea were Taeguk Shield and Wings. In Chiellini''s opinion, fame and capability were, to some extent, proportional.


    These guys are nameless.


    In which case


    Just how strong are Taeguk Shield and Wings?


    After witnessing Giantgod in action, he could understand how the purported number 1 tamer in China, Lao Yu, was repelled by Wings. If Giantgod was this strong, how much stronger were the more famous guilds?


    Theres also their fearsome unity to consider.


    It wasnt easy to foster such resolve and courage in teammates to give everything to their leader. It was only possible because the leader had proven themselves and had earned their teammates trust.


    And thats not all.


    He remembered what Hyukjin said beforeing in here.


    <em>Of course, theres nothing I can do about the EXP I get indirectly or any rewards given directly to me, but I want to concede as much of the rewards as I can to you.</em>


    He had the feeling he was tricked. Hyukjin hadid out the justification of not being able to do anything about rewards given directly in advance. Chiellini couldnt even refute this situation. He realized that Hyukjin hadnt taken a step back because he wanted to concede the rewards.


    This is why


    Was this why Hyukjin said to watch and learn?


    Its not unpleasant.


    This was a virtue that a sovereign naturally required. What Hyukjin had just shown him was an excellent tactic. Technically, Hyukjin made good on his promise, while securing all the profit he could at the same time. A sovereign could not always take the flowery, ideal path. Sometimes, they had to use nder and less-than-savory tricks, and sometimes, they even had to resort to coercion. Chiellini was well aware of that.


    How shocking.


    It was shocking that there was a sovereign like this in Korea. While Chiellini was briefly stunned, Hyukjin heard a new notice.


    [Choose a reward.]<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Predator Tree Seed Bag</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Predator Tree Leaves Bag</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Predator Tree Colony Dungeon Title</li></ol>


    These rewards had been upgraded <em>two </em>times. Hyukjin could tell that no matter what he chose, profit was guaranteed.


    Choosing the seed bag is correct.


    That way, he could fulfill his side of the deal with CEO Song and would gain ess to CEO Songs full prowess. But Observers Eye was edging towards number 3. It wasnt really sparkling, but the Predator Tree Colony Dungeon Title letters seemed to be shining brightly.


    My head says number 1. And my eyes say number 3.


    Hyukjins eyes were basically his intuition. And he trusted his intuition.


    I


    He intentionally spoke aloud, conveying the situation to the Guardians watching above.


    The majority of Guardians probably think Ill choose number 1.


    That was natural. After all, he hade this far for that result. Hyukjin purposefully drew out his words for dramatic effect, which Chiellini also noticed. The Italian quickly realized why Hyukjin was pausing.


    So thats how you do it.


    It felt like he had gained a new enlightenment, like he had truly gained a lot from todays clear. Salvatore got a reward as well.


    [Your contribution is 25%.]


    [Predator Tree Seed Bundle received.]


    Chiellini was more focused on what Hyukjin was doing than his notices. Each and every one of Hyukjins actions was a lesson for Chiellini.


    Hyukjin finally spoke. Trusting his intuition, he totally shattered the expectations of the Guardians.


    I choose the dungeon title.


    Hyukjin was given the dungeon title.

 Chapter 205

    Chapter 205


    I choose the dungeon title.


    That choice prompted many Guardians to send messages.


    [The Nameless Guardian observes.]


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas is curious.]


    [The Barrier of Blue Light doubts your choice.]


    [The Conductor of Sound wonders what youre thinking.]


    One of the Guardians took a different stand.


    [The White Hunter respects your choice.]


    [The White Hunter has sent you a 300 Coin sponsorship.]


    Hyukjin checked his new dungeon title.


    [True Ruler of the Predator Tree Colony]


    Grants you the authority to fully control and govern the Predator Tree Colony. The True Ruler of the Predator Tree Colony exercises great power within the Predator Tree Colony.


    *Unlimited resurrection within the Predator Tree Colony.


    *Can invoke Death Sentencing within the Predator Tree Colony.


    *Can adjust Predator Tree Colony entry conditions.


    *Can adjust Predator Tree Colony difficulty.


    An additional notice came in.[Because your contribution was at least 50%, the dungeon title has been upgraded.]


    It was originally supposed to be Ruler of the Predator Tree Colony, but it was upgraded to True Ruler of the Predator Tree Colony.


    Its the same as the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    Even the effects were the same. But that wasnt the end.


    [Because your contribution was at least 70%, you are given an additional bonus.]


    [A special effect has been added to the True Ruler of the Predator Tree Colony dungeon title.]


    A special effect?


    Bonus:<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Can open Predator Tree Colony upon fulfilling a special condition.</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    The created Predator Tree Colony will share the same form as the Predator Tree Colony in which this title was acquired.</li></ol>


    Hyukjin stiffened. He remembered the System implying that reaching at least 70% contribution was an extremely good thing. It really was no exaggeration.


    If I fulfill a special condition I can open a Predator Tree Colony?


    That basically meant


    I can voluntarily generate the Predator Tree Colony gate.


    There was a catch, of coursethe special condition.


    [Special Condition]<ol data-mce-style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Requires 12 Predator Tree Seeds.</li><li data-mce-style=": 11pt;">


    Requires Humid Soil.</li></ol>


    He finished looking through the conditions as well.


    What did you get, Chiellini?


    Do I need to tell you that?


    You dont need to if you dont want to.


    Hyukjin concealed his thoughts. It would be great if Chiellini told him, but he wasnt obligated to do so.


    However, Chiellini (Salvatore) said, You taught me a great deal today, so I suppose I should repay you.


    ...


    Chiellini told him honestly, I was given a Predator Tree Seed Bundle and a Humid Soil Map.


    Hyukjin nodded. Chiellini had what he needed, but Hyukjin kept his face nonchnt.


    You got good stuff.


    Are they good?


    Yes. Because I want the seeds.


    That was something Hyukjin had expressed even beforeing inside.


    Must I give them to you?


    Not necessarily.


    Chiellini wasnt the type to just give him the seeds when forced anyway. He was someone who would only be satisfied by doing a fair, reasonable trade, so Hyukjin made a proposal.


    Would it be alright if I buy them from you if I need themter?


    You want to buy them?


    To be precise, Im not the one who needs them.


    Chiellini gave Hyukjin a nk look. It made sense; Hyukjin might be an archer/sovereign/jack of trades ss, but he didnt really seem to need the seeds or Humid Soil Map.


    Its possible someone I know needs themI have a request from them to find the seeds.


    Is that so?


    Yes. I dont know about the Humid Soil, but theres someone who wants the seeds.


    Why is that? Is it an important item?


    Hm, it could be important, or it could be unimportant. Depends on the person, dont you think?


    That person was CEO Song. To him, the seeds were a potentially life-saving item.


    Ill go back to Korea and ask if theyre interested in buying. Theyll probably be generous with the price.


    Please do that.


    Chiellini nodded, having judged that there was nothing for him to lose. Hyukjin said again, Should we set an approximate price before we part ways?


    Hyukjin concealed his happiness. Those items were both crucial for both him and CEO Song. In other words, he could use Song Kiyoungs money to pocket them for free.


    The person who wants to buy the Predator Tree Seed Bundle is rather loaded.


    ...Really?


    Theyll probably offer at least 100,000 euros.


    100,000 euros. In Korean currency, that was above 130,000,000 won.


    Is this item that valuable?


    At least to that person, yes. Should I ask if theyre interested in buying the Humid Soil Map as well? I think they would buy it for at least 100,000 euros.


    Chiellini gulped. He could get 200,000 euros from clearing a single gate? The age of yers was only just beginning. He knew this sort of thing would happen someday, but he hadnt expected it to be today.


    Concealing his excited heart, Chiellini said calmly, I will await your call.


    * * *


    * * *


    Hyukjin went to CEO Song Kiyoung, who pushed back his original meeting to see Hyukjin right away.


    Youve already acquired the Predator Tree Seeds?


    Yes. I didnt think I would be able to get them so fast, either.


    CEO Song sat down, closing his eyes in thought for a moment.


    Were you sure that you could obtain them?


    I was.


    And if you hadnt been able to?


    Why is that something I need to consider?


    It would mean you were unting empty promises to me. I may be old, but I have a strong desire to live.


    CEO Song chortled, hisughterced with sharp edges. Song Kiyoung was someone who held great power in Korea. If Hyukjin had failed to obtain the Predator Tree Seeds, he might have been very displeased.


    What I mean to ask is, were you not afraid that you would fail? Considering the other party was me.


    I only struck the deal because I was sure I could obtain them. Hyukjin already knew what CEO Song wanted to hear. Theres no investment without risk, is there?


    Song Kiyoung nodded lightly. He knew Hyukjin would say something to that effect. No matter how he thought of it, this young man truly reminded him of his dead son.


    How one manages that risk is the key to investing.


    Thats right.


    I was merely confident I could handle that risk. And the result is as you see. Hyukjin shrugged.


    Very well. Can you show me the Predator Tree Seeds then?


    I dont have them.


    Song Kiyoungs eyes narrowed. Didnt you say you obtained them?


    I never said I had them with me. Another yer has the Predator Tree Seeds and the rted Humid Soil Map.


    What do you mean?


    It was a gate that grants rewards based on contribution. That yer was given Predator Tree Seeds and an item rted to Humid Soil based on his contribution.


    And who is that yer?


    It was Hyukjins turn to narrow his eyes. If it were you, CEO Song, would you be so naive as to say that?


    ...


    CEO Song looked at Hyukjin in silence before faintly smiling. I can look into it myself.


    But that will cost you precious time, and theres no guarantee theyll sell to you. They might already be selling the items. Im sure youre well aware that theres a lot of money to be made from dungeon rewards, aka new tech.


    Song Kiyoung took a sip of the tea in front of him. He didnt contemte the issue for long.


    How much do you want?


    It will depend on the sellers intent, but I believe it would be best to have at least $2 million for the trade.


    $2 million, you say. After a brief moment of thought, Song Kiyoung casually said, Its cheap.


    The hair regeneration serum had cost him about $1 million. At least for him, putting $2 million on a possibility that might save his life wasnt a bad investment.


    CEO Song walked to his desk and lifted the handle of the inte, contacting his secretary.


    Ready $2 million for me in cash.


    Please get it in euros.


    Exchanging the money was a pain. Not long afterwards, Hyukjin had 1.6 million euros in his hands.


    TN: Based on 2018/2019 exchange rate.


    Will this be enough?


    Whether its enough or not is not of any consequence. I will do my best to make it work.


    If its not enough, tell me.


    Hyukjin briefly closed his eyes. No, I think this will be sufficient. I will do whats within my ability, and if its not enough, I will cover it on my own.


    Which implied that if there was any money left over, it would go into Hyukjins pocket. CEO Song understood those unspoken words.


    Haha. Alright.


    It wasnt like CEO Song didnt know what Hyukjin was intending. He knew there was a good chance Hyukjin had alreadyid all the groundwork. That was why this young man was so confident of his sess.


    Hell have already negotiated it to under $2 million.


    CEO Song read Hyukjins thoughts. And yet, he still chuckled, not at all displeased. That such a talent existed in Korea was quite a happy fact for him.


    An objects value differed from person to person. To a person dying of thirst in the desert, a bottle of water was more valuable than silver and gold. It was the same now. $2 million might be far too huge a sum for some people, but to CEO Song, it was far too cheap a price to pay for a possibility, so he gave the money without reserve.


    Ill be back then.


    Hyukjin heard a notice.


    [The Merchant of Venice is impressed by your diverting funds technique.]


    [You have achieved a trade that satisfies all parties, a Win-Win.]


    [The Merchant of Venice is very happy.]


    [1-time Venice Shop Open Ticket received from the Merchant of Venice.]


    Hyukjin smiled. He had an inkling this might happen, and indeed, the Merchant of Venice was very satisfied by this trade. With this, he was sure of itthe Merchant of Venice was watching both him and CEO Song.


    Did the Merchant of Venice watch CEO Song in the past, too?


    Most likely not. This was an aftereffect of Hyukjins making. He walked forward, heading back to Italy.


    * * *


    Hyukjin met up with Chiellini (Salvatore) in Italys Tutorial Building.


    The client generously offered 200,000 euros.


    Salvatores eyes widened. It was really 200,000 euros? 200,000 euros for just these two items? Salvatores hands trembled, which made Hyukjin smile faintly.


    Hes still a yer in the beginner period, yeah.


    200,000 euros. It wasnt a small sum, but it also wasnt huge for top Rankers. But the current Salvatore was being shaken by such an amount.


    Very well. Lets trade.


    The trade was aplished all too easily. Salvatore believed he was someone who knew when to be bold and when to back off. He wasnt greedy for anything more.


    Meanwhile, Hyukjin was left with far more than Salvatore thought.


    Thats 1.4 million euros for me.


    He earned a tidy sum of 1.4 million euros, plus both items he wanted.


    [Predator Tree Seed Bundle acquired.]


    [Map of the Humid Soil field acquired.]


    Hyukjin went back to Korea. There was a huge number of Predator Tree Seeds in the bundle. He doled out some of them and gave them to CEO Song.


    Lets start with these. Please use them to conduct your research. Theres no doubt theyre very effective on Red Flower Tears.


    It was just that they didnt know how the seeds should be used, how they needed to be processed to turn them into medicine. Song Kiyoung nodded. He was also aware that what he purchased wasnt a panacea, but a possibility.


    I will supply you with Predator Tree Seeds as the opportunity arises. Ive found a way to procure more.


    That so?


    When the timees, I will sell them to you at a lower price.


    <em>So do your research and whatever using Sungshins power. </em>Hyukjin left that unsaid. CEO Song would find a way to use the seeds without being told. After all, Sungshin was at the forefront of new drug development using new tech.


    Can I ask how much you bought the seeds for?


    The price is a private matter between me and the seller.


    Song Kiyoung epted it with a nod. With this win-win trade, Hyukjin earned $1.7 million in cash. Following this very profitable business, he decided to take a short break.


    One day passed, and he was called by Jo Sunghyun.


    Hyung.


    Sunghyun would never call him for trivial matters, which meant something had happened. Hyukjin knew the kid was currently working on a scenario with Hyun Junghwa, so it probably had to do with that. Just as he was thinking that, he heard Sunghyun say,


    I think I found a clue about the Wind Temple.

 Chapter 206

    Chapter 206


    Jo Sunghyun and Hyun Junghwa had worked in tandem for about three days. They were both the taciturn type, so their ying was often interspersed with long stretches of silence.


    Today was the same.[The Gatekeeper and Seedling Gate has been cleared.]


    Hyun Junghwa dipped her head slightly first.


    Good


    <em>work. </em>But the words were spoken extremely quietly, and Sunghyun didnt hear them. He also bowed his head.


    Good work.


    ...


    ...


    Conversations between the two of them often went like this. A slight period of silence descended. They left the gate, which was located in Gapyeong. Sunghyun was a student, so he didnt have a car, but Junghwa had one.


    Hyun Junghwa said, Ill give you a ride.


    ...


    Conversations between them were slow paced. Well aware of that, Junghwa patiently waited and said, But youll have to pay for gas.


    ...Thank you.


    Junghwa wasnt actually in need of money. She was the granddaughter of the Daeheung Group, ranked 10 in the financial world. A pittance like gas money meant little to her, but she purposefully asked for it so that Sunghyun could ept the ride without feeling bad.


    She drove the car herself.


    ...


    ...


    Sunghyun sat in the passenger seat. The two of them didnt talk unless it was strictly necessary for ying. But Hyun Junghwa had something to discuss.


    Mr. Sunghyun. I have something to tell you.


    Sunghyun wasnt used to this Mr. title. He had been called such a way only a few times, and he found it a little awkward to the ear.


    Yes, what is it? he asked politely back.


    You said you were looking for the Wind Temple, right?


    Yes.


    Their conversation was slow, but it was also just as concise. Junghwa went straight to the point without going around in circles.


    I found the way in.


    ...


    Theres this gravestone I found. Apparently, I need to break it in the right ce.


    ...I see.


    The problem was that she didnt know where the right ce was.


    I think not just anyone can break it. A special condition needed to be fulfilled. It says only a True Ruler can.


    ...


    It was silent again in the car. Sunghyuns thoughts raced inside his head.


    True Ruler.


    He didnt know what that meant. But he now had a clue.


    It might be possible to find out more if I ask my guildmaster.


    Will you do that?


    With your permission.


    Of course you have my permission.


    That concluded their conversation, and not a single word was spoken between them during the rest of the 1.5 hour trip from Gapyeong to Seoul. Neither of them found the silence awkward. In fact, they were both at ease. Their personalities matched quite nicely.


    Sunghyun ryed the information he got from Hyun Junghwa to Kim Hyukjin, and as someone who had two True Ruler titles, Kim Hyukjin immediately knew what the True Ruler was.


    Introduce me to Miss Junghwa.


    He decided to meet the Divine Archer, Hyun Junghwa.


    * * *


    Hyukjin was already very familiar with the Divine Archer, a figure who was ofparable skill to the 8 Heroes but had never shed against the Demon King. Where archery was concerned, she was a top Ranker famous worldwide. That was the kind of person she would be in the future.


    Nice to meet you. Im the guildmaster of Giantgod, Kim Hyukjin.


    Hello. Im Hyun Junghwa.


    Kim Hyukjin, Hyun Junghwa, and Jo Sunghyun met in the cafeteria of a certain hotel in downtown Seoul. Knowing Hyun Junghwas personality, Hyukjin molded his speech to suit her.


    It may be a little hasty for our first meeting, but Ill cut straight to the point.


    Hyun Junghwa preferred such directness. She didnt like things like greetings and pointless formalities.


    I have an item called Sylphids Wing.


    ...


    Junghwas body flinched. But she didnt say that she had one as well, since it wasnt really his business to know. There was no reason to reveal her weapon to someone she had just met today.


    Im looking for the Wind Temple in order to get the Complete Sylphids Wings.


    ...


    My guild member Sunghyun here has his own reasons for finding the Wind Temple. I dont know your reasoning, but I heard youre looking for the Wind Temple as well. Sunghyun gave me a quick rundown.


    Yes.


    Ive never told this to anyone other than my guildmates, but I Hyukjin lowered his voice a little. ...already know what a True Ruler is.


    What is it?


    A dungeon title.


    Dungeon titles exist?


    Hyun Junghwa stared at Hyukjin. This was her first time hearing about any dungeon titles. No, she did hear rumors about it, but shed never seen anyone with an actual dungeon title.


    Theyre titles that can be acquired when you clear a dungeon with special conditions. I imagine theyre somehow rted to the gravestone you possess.


    ...


    Also, theres a ce in the Gran Seoul that screams the right ce, isnt there?


    ...


    ...


    Sunghyun and Junghwa were both silent. The person to break that silence was Sunghyun.


    Come to think of it I did hear there was a cemetery field. I know Yoohyun hyung cleared it.


    Sunghyun had gone in and out of the Gran Seoul several times with Taeguk Shield and many other yers. There was definitely a cemetery field. Several spots were missing gravestones.


    I bet you would have been able to grasp the field more precisely if you were there, Hyung.


    Hyun Junghwa stared at Sunghyun in fascination. This was the first time shed seen him say so much and show such a high assessment of someone. Theyd worked together a few times with other yers, but Sunghyun was frustrated each and every time. He didnt show it, of course, but Junghwa could tell since they were the same type of person and she herself was feeling the same way.


    Lets work together, Hyukjin proposed.


    Junghwa didnt stop to think about it for long. Alright.


    The more people they had, the easier the clear would be. But it also meant the rewards would be split among more people. He was even someone who wanted the same thing as her.


    He wants the Complete Sylphids Wings, and so do I.


    In the very slight chance that only one reward rted to the Complete Sylphids Wings was given, what would she do?


    But I cant do it alone anyway.


    They would need to conduct an appropriate trade or negotiation if that happened. But Kim Hyukjin spoke up first.


    I heard youre an archer.


    Yes, I am.


    Ill ask you to be 100% sure. Do you also want the Complete Sylphids Wings, Miss Junghwa?


    ...


    She nodded, thinking there was nothing to gain from lying here.


    If only one reward toplete the Sylphids Wing is offered


    ...


    And I end up getting that reward


    ...


    Ill give you first pick.


    ...


    Junghwa had the feeling he had seen through her.


    Howe?


    Im not an archer.


    Is that so?


    My ss is sovereign. A sovereign needs to know how to handle people, you see.


    ...


    He wasnt wrong. She epted the answer.


    However, Im not saying I will give it to you for free.


    Thats fine. Junghwa actually felt better after hearing that. If that happens, what do you want?


    Hyukjin grinned.


    Money.


    Those words <em>really </em>put Junghwas mind at ease.


    * * *


    * * *


    Hyukjin returned home.


    Oppa!


    Like always, Sunhwa ran out barefoot and jumped Hyukjin. He hugged her back with a throatyugh. She wasnt his biological little sister, but she felt like one. Of course, he was well aware there were no actual little sisters who would greet their biological brothers this happily, but in any case, she felt like a real sister to him.


    Are you listening well to Mom?


    I even left a drumstick for you.


    Really? Well done.


    The drumstick-lover Sunhwa leaving behind a drumstick was a disy of impressive patience.


    Huh? Whered it go?


    Sunhwa felt wronged. She definitely left one drumstick, no mistake about it. She shouted, HEY! KIM DARONG!


    Darongi was nowhere to be seen, which meant he was currently in stealth mode.


    The culprit is Kim Darongi. I definitely left one for you!


    Its alright.


    Hyukjin didnt care much whether his chicken was a drumstick or a wing, and he wasnt as enamored with drumsticks as Sunhwa was. What he wanted to know was when Darongi got thest name Kim.


    Did you just meet an unnie named Hyun Junghwa?


    Howd you know?


    Mister Sung-gu was telling me.


    Hyukjin snorted. How did Sung-gu find out? Obviously, because Sunghyun had told him. Sunghyun wasnt a talkative person and kept mostly to himself, but Sung-gu knowing meant that Sunghyun was extremely fond of him, despite all the squabbling that went between them.


    Thats nice.


    Giantgod guild members getting along was a good thing. But Sunhwa seemed to be thinking about something strange.


    That Unnie is really pretty.


    That so?


    Was she? Hyukjin tilted his head.


    Mm.


    When he thought back on it, it was probably true that she was pretty. The Divine Archer was famed for her equally divine appearance. It was just that Hyukjin was uninterested in such things. After returning to the past, his eyes were strangely numb to the beauty of women.


    I think she was pretty, yeah.


    Looks like she wasnt your type.


    Sunhwa turned and walked away, her steps light and happy. Hyukjin heard a voice.


    (A verymendable attitude, hubby.)


    Hyukjin wondered to himself what Isabel was going on about now.


    (A man should always be as unfeeling as stone when seeing other women.)


    (When you met that woman, I noticed your heart didnt tremble at all?) Isabel seemed exceedingly satisfied. (Im very pleased. As expected of my husband.)


    Hyukjin didnt bother responding to Isabels monologuing. There was something more important to do than that.


    Senia. Are you streaming?


    Senia wasnt there.


    (That angel? Why? Whyre you looking for her? I dont like her.)


    Isabels de quivered intensely in his Inventory.


    (Did you choose your Intermediate Administrator on appearance? Did you?! And you even picked out the number 1 beauty among the angels and made a contract with her! Why? Im serious, if you look at other women, Ill kill you!)


    (Answer me. Dont hold Senias hand, dont even make eye contact with her. Dont do anything. Got it?)


    Hyukjin acquiesced absentmindedly. Yeah, okay.


    He had zero intention to get romantically involved with an Intermediate Administrator anyway. No matter how beautiful Senia was, hed never seen a happily ever after for anyone whod gotten involved with an Intermediate Administrator. That was how it was in the past, and how it would be in the future.


    (Ill trust you, okay, husband?)


    Yeah, trust me.


    The des quivering quieted a little at that.


    (As expected, my husband is trustw)


    And then, she fell asleep. Hyukjin waited a little. It was about time for Senia to appear. She was showing up around him even when he wasnt full-on ying these days.


    After some time, Senia appeared.


    Were you waiting for me?


    For some strange reason, Senias wings were trembling ever so lightly.


    I was.


    Howe?


    Im gonna open the shop.


    ...Is that all?


    Yeah. Why?


    Senia shook her head. Its nothing, she said, stealthily moving her hand behind her back. In her hand was a snack of angelkind, a bag of Sky Carp Bread. After hiding it, she stowed it in her Inventory. She absolutely 120% didnt bring it because she wanted to give it to Hyukjin.


    The Arrow-Shooting Cupid must have read Senias actions, because he sponsored them 300 Coins each.


    When you say shop do you mean the 1-time shop bestowed by the Merchant of Venice?


    Yes.


    He left the words, Its good content, right? unsaid.[Open the 1-time Venice Shop of the Merchant of Venice?]


    He opened the shop.[The Venice Shop can be utilized for 3 minutes.]


    A list of purchasable items unfurled before Hyukjins eyes.[Time left - 03:00]


    The timer began to count down. After just three seconds, Hyukjins eyes widened.


    No way.


    The item he saw made him swallow a mouthful of saliva.


    Iron Lions Harmonica?


    That item was here.

 Chapter 207

    Chapter 207


    Iron Lions Harmonica. Hyukjin was very familiar with this famously famous item.


    An item that was auctioned for $27 million in Las Vegas.


    The buyer was none other than the Gold Pyramid, Michelle.


    The item shop is restricted to 3 minutes.


    It wasnt a long time. First, he examined the Iron Lions Harmonica.


    [Iron Lions Harmonica]


    ?


    Hyukjin was unable to see the item description at his current level.


    There might be a special restriction on it.


    After peering closely at it with Observers Eye, he saw a little more.


    [Iron Lions Harmonica]


    ?


    *Sovereign ss exclusive


    That was all he could see. Any further was overdoing it.


    Its a no-brainer.


    There might be even better items here, with even greater value. But he didnt want to run that risk. Why would he, when there was an item worth $20 million right in front of him? He chose the sure win directly within arms reach.


    You still have over two minutes left, said Senia.


    I know.


    Youre going to purchase something right away?


    Yep, I gotta.


    He checked the price.


    [Coins: cannot use]


    [Cash: 1,500,000 USD]


    A tremor ran down his body.


    Cant buy with Coins anyway.


    Hyukjin didnt think he would see that stiption as early as the beginner period. As far as he knew, items that could only be purchased with cash only started appearing in the intermediate period, with most of theming in the expert period. A few economists said it was the Systems method of preventing excessive intion, but there was no way to know if that was the truth.


    $1.5 million


    He would have been in a real bind if he hadnt had the money.[Will you make the purchase?]


    They had long since left the bounds of science. The System independently judged how much cash Hyukjin possessed.[Your entire cash savings will be automatically withdrawn.]


    Whether he had it in the bank, in his Inventory, or in a safe, the money would disappear on its own.


    Though I remember this phenomenon caused a huge ruckus in the financial world.


    That wasnt his problem. Hyukjin decided not to worry about it. Even if he ignored it, there were lots of smart people in the world who would work to resolve such issues.[You have purchased Iron Lions Harmonica.]


    The Iron Lions Harmonica was in his Inventory. He immediately called Song Kiyeol.


    An item auction will take ce in Las Vegas.


    Ah, yes. I was informed that it will take ce in one month.


    Naturally, Giantgod Guild wasnt given an invitation. The auction was being hosted by the Gold Pyramid Michelle. It was an ultra-exclusive auction only the top guilds of each nation were invited to. People who received an invitation could both sell and buy.


    It <em>is </em>a little inconvenient at times like this.


    Giantgod Guild had no fame. Even in Korea, there werent many people who knew the guild. If they did, most people just knew it was a guild with So Yoohyun and Shin Yeonseo in it. Granted, it was a truly trivial problem.


    Sell an item for me there.


    And that was because he had a good pushno, a good business partner. All he had to do was ask him for a favor.


    * * *


    * * *


    Hyukjin was lying on his bed, closing his eyes in apparent tiredness. The poison-using assassin ss yer, Jung Sangchul, knitted his brows in indecision.


    Will I really be able to kill that man?


    It would take more than a wishy-washy attack. That was what he could conclude from his secret observation so far.<em> </em>


    But its impossible.


    He dide out on Song Junghyes orders, but no matter how he looked at it, this was an impossible task. However good at poison he might be, the danger to himself was too great. In the end, Jung Sangchul decided to give up.


    Hed probably get a terrible tongushing from Song Junghye, but that was better than risking his life. The man he had been examining was too dangerous.


    Just then, he heard a voice.


    Smart choice.


    ...


    Jung Sangchul got down from the ceiling, bing visible to the eye.


    ...Did you know?


    Surely you didnt think I <em>didnt </em>know?


    Why didnt you do anything?


    Hyukjin smiled. Because whether you attack me or go back, both oues are good for me.


    Sangchul was speechless. Kim Hyukjin. He was young, but he was absolutely not someone to be viewed lightly. Sangchul understood exactly what Hyukjin meant.


    If I had attacked him


    An assassin whose location was perceived could not win against a regrbat ss yer.


    It would have given him justification.


    Justification to retaliate against Song Junghye.


    And I would have definitely been taken down.


    What about a situation like now, where he gave up on attacking and was retreating?


    He intentionally called me out.


    This was a form of warning.


    Im the best assassin in Blue Spearhead.


    Which meant there was no one in Song Junghyes guild, Blue Spearhead, who could sessfully assassinate this man. In other words, they shouldnt even attempt it.


    Your main ability is poison, correct, Mr. Jang Sangchul?


    Yes.


    You were trying to kill Gu Sungmin before.


    ...


    Im not trying to me you for that. I cant say youre a good person, but the person who gave the order was Song Junghye.


    ...I never did such a thing.


    Looks like you have an exceptional sense of loyalty to Director Song Junghye. Seeing as youre ying innocent.


    Hyukjin already knew the assassins rtionship with her was deeper than just subordinate and boss. The man was pretty much in love with her. The Jang Sangchul he remembered was like that.


    Well, whatever. Hyukjin grinned. Please pass on the message that the Blue Spearhead isnt the only guild with assassins.


    ...


    Even now, in this very room, someone is concealing themselves. Their presence, can you feel it?


    ...


    Jung Sangchul couldnt answer.


    Where?


    He couldnt see anyone. He prided himself on having keen senses, but he couldnt feel them at all.


    You cant feel them, can you?


    ...No, I cant.


    Please be sure to tell Miss Song that its not that I <em>cant </em>attempt an assassination, its just that Im choosing not to.


    ...


    Sangchul flinched. If there really was someone using Stealth in this room, they were a truly dangerous foe. Song Junghye could be erased from this world without a whisper.


    Are you certain someones in stealth?


    Cant believe me?


    At least as far as I know, among the Korean assassin ss yers, Im


    The top? Hyukjin gave an intentional chuckle, obviously ridiculing him.


    Theres no need to show you proof and no reason to, but He pointed with his chin. The cup on the table, raise it.


    And then, the cup really did move. Someone in stealth mode had raised it. Sangchul felt cold sweat run down his back. Even as the cup moved, he couldnt feel the persons presence at all. It was like there was a ghost in front of him.


    Is that enough proof for you?


    ...I understand very well now. I will ry your intent in full, Giantgod Guildmaster.


    Go on then.


    Hyukjin flopped back onto his bed.


    That was easy?


    The Poisoned Dagger was a tricky opponent. In a peaceful environment, it was possible to locate and threaten the assassin, but what if it was in the middle of a fierce fight, and his attention was consumed by something else? That was when Jang Sungchul was dangerous. It was best to eliminate dangerous factors in advance, and this would serve as a sufficient threat to Song Junghye as well.


    Well done.


    There was always soy sauce fried chicken in Hyukjins Inventory these days. He took out a leg and flung it out. Something caught it in midair and became visible.


    It was the thieving genius, Darongi.


    * * *


    Hyukjin left Complex 1 and headed towards Complex 2. He stopped in front of the crosswalk. Some distance in front of him, in the center of the road, was the Guardian Tower Tintin, the structure in which Ahn Seohyes soul dwelled. She initiated the conversation.


    Master. Its been a while.


    He still wasnt used to being called Master. What kind of title was that, for the 21st century?


    Did anything of note happen?


    No.


    No real issues had cropped up in the vicinity of the DMC Riverview Xi.


    But


    The crosswalk signal changed to green. Hyukjin didnt cross. He had shared more than enough feelings with Seohye, and their rtionship was one where he could deeply empathize with her. On top of that, there was a System-supported master-subordinate rtionship between them, and he was able to read Seohyes feelings even more deeply.


    Loneliness?


    He suddenly felt bad.


    Sorry. Ille more often.


    Well


    Seohye had be a Guardian Tower. She couldnt move from this spot. She could not drink or eat, nor could she sleep. She could only stand here, fixed in ce. Like a building.


    I wonder if it feels like solitary confinement.


    She didnt even have anyone to talk to. She couldnt delight in the pleasures of food. She couldnt even drink a simple cup of coffee. Countless people passed by every day, but no one paid any attention to the Guardian Tower anymore. They just thought of it as a sculpture.


    Whats more, shes got nothing to do.


    Other than him, she had no one else to talk to. She could only stand there like that for days, months, years.


    Ille by often.


    Really?


    Seohyes voice suddenly got louder in unconscious excitement, which she quickly curbed.


    I-I mean What I mean is


    I understand how you feel. Soon, Ill try looking for a way to materialize your body.


    Thank you.


    There must be a way.


    He just didnt know it yet. Hyukjin walked past the crosswalk. No one noticed it, but the Red Eye located at the very top of the Guardian Tower Tinin became a little more vibrant.


    More vibrantly red.


    * * *


    The entire Giantgod cast got together for the first time in a while, meeting in the Giantgod Guilds building near the yer Center.


    So Yoohyun brought down his beer mug with a thump. He was braggingtely that his control over his strength had improved, and the action was to unt it. His expression was full of confidence, like he was iming, Ive got enough fine control to not break a ss like this!


    Hyungnim, youre so busy even ten of you wouldnt be enough! And then, he broke out in a hearty guffaw. Im so happy I get to serve you!


    ...


    Hyukjin had nothing to say. It was somehow scary that Yoohyun was being sincere right now. Yeonseo summed up the situation.


    So essentially you need to go to the Wind Temple, and what was it, the Sky of Freedom? You also need to work on the scenario rted to the Predator Tree Colony, and theres also a Battlefield of Crows that might be connected to that, yeah? On top of that, youve also got something to put up in the Las Vegas auction.


    Sunghyun added, He also has a scenario rted to the Sword Forest.


    Sunhwa drained her ss of grapefruit-ade in one go, then said with a bright smile, No need to think too hard, Unnie. Oppa, my oppa will do it all well.


    But still, isnt there too much to do? Just how many scenarios is that?


    Its Oppa.


    Sunhwas smile got Yeonseo to smile in the end, too. True. The dudes a monster.


    Everyone quickly moved on. Sung-gu said, Fudge. So Boss man, whatre we gonna tackle first? You called us all up cause theres something for us to do, right?


    Hyukjin hyung will say it on his own. You talk too much, Hyung.


    It was Jo Sunghyun. He was taciturn in front of others, but he became unusually talkative in front of Choi Sung-gu.


    Were going to the Gran Seoul Dungeon. With a yer named Hyun Junghwa.


    Not long after, Hyun Junghwa came into the guild office, having received Hyukjins invitation. There was a quick round of introductions.


    Hyukjin returned to the matter at hand.


    Were gonna go to the Gran Seoul Dungeon. With this person here.


    So Yoohyun didnt ask why. He only asked, What do we need to do, Hyungnim?


    Were gonna look for the cemetery field.


    There was a minor issuethe Icewall guild under Song Junghyesmand was still sealing off the Gran Seoul Dungeon entrance.


    To do that, well have to break our way in.


    Yeonseo tilted her head. But that would expose us all, wouldnt it? Which Boss doesnt like.


    Hyukjin shrugged.


    None of you guys knew?


    What?


    Know what?


    Hyukjin took out a bow from his Inventory.


    Im an archer.


    If the authorities stacked on the gate, he could just break them from a distance. It wasnt hard. Sunhwa nodded.


    Aha!


    Everyone in Giantgod was instantly convinced. Everyone except for one person, Hyun Junghwa.


    What the heck?


    What was this sudden talk about being an archer or whatever? Why was everyone just epting that exnation and moving on? She was a little confused, but she didnt say anything. She was quiet by nature, and wasnt the type to do things rashly.


    Still puzzled, Junghwa concluded that she would find out before long.


    And one dayter, she realized what Hyukjin had meant.


    Hyun Junghwa was stunned into speechlessness. What had just happened in front of her was just too shocking.


    What the hell is this!

 Chapter 208

    Chapter 208


    Kim Hyukjins group went up to the Gran Seoul Dungeon. Yoohyun felt especially at ease today. He couldnt help but hum as he gazed at Hyukjin walking ahead of him.


    Hnnh. How dashing a back that was. Working with Hyungnim is the best.


    Of course, it was true that the difficulty was highest when ying with Hyungnim. It was hard and dangerous. But the sense of achievement and enjoyment that came with it couldnt be described.


    I wonder what hell do?


    Gate yers were sealing off the Gran Seoul Dungeon entrance. Hyukjin smirked, inwardly calling those yers idiots. Even after she was crushed sopletely by him, Song Junghye didnt call off her goons. She either thought he was bluffing, or thought that doing as he said would be an insult to her pride.


    Or she believes what Jackson said to her.


    Hyukjin found it amusing.


    But a person of Jacksons skill should have found out by now that the [Growth Fruit] in the Gran Seoul has lost relevance.


    Sunhwa, who was keeping pace shoulder to shoulder with Hyukjin, tilted her head. Oppa. Did something good happen?


    No, its nothing.


    Something good happened, huh? Sunhwa giggled, apparently in a good mood, as if something good happening to her brother was a good thing for her.


    The past Jackson propped up Song Junghye. That was his assumption, for now. But looking at it now, I think hes using Song Junghye a little less.


    Of course, it wasnt yet confirmed. It was also possible Jackson hadnt discovered the secret of this dungeon yet.


    Well, doesnt matter which one it is.


    Whether Jackson had tossed Song Junghye aside, or just didnt know the Gran Seouls secret yet, both were fun.


    Miss Junghwa, Hyukjin said.


    Yes?


    How many Sylphids Wing arrows do you have?


    More than enough.


    Can I borrow just ten from you?


    Thats nothing, you can just have them. They can be bought in the shop anyway.


    Hyukjin was honestly a little shocked.


    She buys these from the shop?


    Normally, the shop didnt sell Sylphids Wing arrows. They had to be acquired elsewhere. Simply being able to get them from the shop was not normal. There was definitely a Guardian involved.


    Night of Shooting Stars, that dine-and-dasher.


    The Guardian had put up the Tome of the Divine Bow Physique as a reward and had run off without giving it to Hyukjin. The Night of Shooting Stars was such a famous Stage 2 Guardian that Hyukjin was still giving him the benefit of the doubt, at least for now.


    Thank you.


    Hyukjin took the arrows from Junghwa and notched one. Junghwas eyes gleamed.


    Hes incredibly skilled as an archer as well, you say?


    Ordinary folk didnt know, but a few people knew about Hyukjins skill with a bow. The video from Italy had been shared on various tforms. It didnt go viral in Korea, but archers knew about it by word of mouth.


    Show me then.


    But it was a little strange.


    Be it his posture


    Posture. Breathing. Timing.


    Theyre all


    Not perfect. It wasnt just not perfect, but positively <em>rough.</em>


    Whats he saying?


    She heard Hyukjin mumbling something. Junghwa craned her ears, but didnt catch the first part.


    Such is the power of intuition.


    The Eye of Insight that sees the true nature of things.


    May all lies.


    Be shattered.


    And with it, Hyukjin fired the bow. Junghwa was shocked.


    Kim Hyukjin hasnt had any training.


    He wasnt a trained archer. Judging by his posture, he didnt have any archer-rted skills, either. There was no doubt about it.


    But why?


    Everything was rough around the edges, and yet


    Why is the trajectory so true?


    Junghwa, who had learned archery from a young age, couldnt believe it. She had been taught that posture and breathing were more important than anything, but she felt her reality shaking at the roots.


    Hyukjin fired another arrow. There was a gentle whistle, and then a thudding sound as the arrow made contact. It felt like the arrow crashed into an invisible barrier.


    He fired another,ing to a grand total of three arrows.


    Chaos erupted at the Gran Seoul Dungeon entrance. All the authorities of the Icewall guild members upying the entrance shattered, and it only took three arrows. The leader of Icewall, Song Byeongchan, screamed, Who is it?!


    Hyukjin nced at Hyun Junghwa. Their n was for Junghwa to step forward here, since they had arranged for her to get the credit for this clear. Just for the outside eyes, that is.


    Junghwa took a deep breath.


    Thats right.


    She and Kim Hyukjin had alreadye up with a cover story. She had learned her lines. This was what Hyukjin told her:


    <em>Theyll freak out when their gate authorities crumble. Theyll probably look for the culprit.</em>


    Song Byeongchan shouted again, I said, who the fuck is it?! Get your ass out here right now!


    <em>When that happens, say this. Your abilities are amplified when youre upying a gate or an entrance.</em>


    Your abilities are amplified when youre upying a gate or an entrance.


    Youre Hyun Junghwa?


    <em>Theyll probably recognize you. Since youre more famous than you think, Miss Junghwa.</em>


    Junghwa was struck with a strange sense of dj vu. It was as if Hyukjin had seen the future and told her exactly what would happen.


    <em>Howe you guys arent running away when your specialty haspletely fallen apart?</em>


    Junghwa repeated Hyukjins words letter by letter.


    Howe you guys arent running away when your specialty haspletely fallen apart?


    <em>By this point, people will start looking your way.</em>


    Before she knew it, many people were looking towards them. Everything was happening just as Hyukjin had said.


    <em>Ive given you guys a chance to run, but... Say that, and then raise your bow. That will conclude things.</em>


    Ive given you guys a chance to run, but Junghwa raised her bow. She improvised an extra line. I wonder who my next arrow will hit?


    The yers upying the gate began to scatter like roaches. They were contracted mercenaries. There was no such thing as loyalty to them. It was inevitable that they werent about to stand their ground when the threat of death was looming before them.


    The same went for the guildmaster of Icewall, Song Byeongchan. Dammit, he cursed. Last time, Lao Yu came and messed things up, and this time, it was Hyun Junghwa. And theres even weirdos next to her.


    Especially concerning were the Tutorial Ender So Yoohyun and the Smiling Swordswoman Shin Yeonseo. With their gate authorities in pieces, Icewall was no match for them. So they all fled, leaving not a single person at the entrance.


    Hyukjin smiled wide.


    What do you think? Exactly as I said, right?


    Hyun Junghwa felt a flush of fear.


    * * *


    * * *


    Yoohyun took the lead.


    I cleared itst time, Hyungnim!


    The Gran Seoul had various fields. Many yers, including the guild members of Taeguk Shield, had divided the forked pathways amongst themselves, acquiring a great deal of information in the process. Yoohyun was one of those yers.


    B-But where are we?


    The problem was that Yoohyun was the navigator. It took at least three hours for Hyukjins party to find the cemetery field.


    Sung-gu hummed,pletely at ease. Weve been wandering for three hours and Im not tired at all. At least theres no danger of dying, right?


    It was so very different from when he wasst here with other people. It was refreshing. Yes, <em>this </em>was ying. When ying with his fellow Giantgod guild members, there was nothing to fear. All he had to do was faithfully carry out his role as a long-ranged DPS.


    After three hours, they saw a ck gate shimmering on the wall some distance ahead. It was a gate leading into a different field.[Marvin Cemetery]


    The fields name was Marvin Cemetery.


    Ah! That one! Thats the one, Hyungnim. Over there! A lot of skeleton dudesll show up there.


    They headed there without hesitation.[Enter the Marvin Cemetery?]


    Yeonseo was glued to Hyukjins side.


    This ce is scary.


    The field was overall bleak, a neglected cemetery that hadnt been well-maintained. Many of the gravestones were broken, and the graves were rampant with weeds. A wet, disgusting stench drifted along in the wind.


    <em>Caw! Caw! </em>came the raucous caws of crows.


    Can you do something about those crows somehow? Boss, youre an archer.


    ...


    Hyukjin didnt acknowledge Yeonseos half-heartedining.


    Miss Junghwa, is the gravestone responding, by any chance?


    No, not yet.


    They heard a notice.[A monster is being spawned.]


    Something stood up from a grave.


    Skeleton Golem - LVL 35


    It was a level 35 golem made of bones. It was slow, but had fairly strong physical attack power, and was unique in that it could restore itself even after being destroyed.


    We wont fight it.


    Junghwa couldnt understand that. They wouldnt fight? Then what was he nning on doing?


    Hyukjin put Junghwas doubts to ease with his actions. Die.


    And then, the Skeleton Golem copsed into a pile of bones.[In ordance with the Death Sentence of the True Ruler of the Gran Seoul Dungeon, the Skeleton Golem has perished.]


    Junghwa blinked like a doe in headlights.


    Mr. Kim Hyukjin. Just what did you do, exactly?


    Didnt you hear the notice?


    The notice about the True Ruler?


    Yes.


    This sort of thing is possible if youre a True Ruler?


    You saw it with your own eyes, no?


    There was no need or reason to exin it in detail. It might be different if she was a Giantgod guild member, but she wasnt, and there was no need to tell her everything.


    Junghwa picked up on it, too. The reason he hasnt used this up to this point


    It was intentional. An intentional choice to show her the power of Giantgod.


    Magic Troll.


    Advanced Goblin Soldier.


    Orc Archer.


    Orc Soldier.


    Orc Warrior, etc.


    All of these monsters were hunted far too easily by Giantgod. In fact, Junghwa had been thinking this for a while now.


    Giantgod Guild was this strong?


    But that wasnt the end. Kim Hyukjin had just destroyed a Skeleton Golem with a single word. To Junghwa, it was a whole new world.


    She was left wondering just where in the world the man at the forefront of this whole new world, Kim Hyukjin, hade from. How much did Koreas top guild, Taeguk Shield, know about Kim Hyukjin?


    Miss Junghwa, said Hyukjin. May I take a look at the gravestone?


    Yes.


    Hyukjin examined the gravestone.[Observing with Observers Eye.]


    He didnt see anyth


    Wait a moment, I see it?


    [The True Ruler of the Gran Seoul Dungeon is checking the Gravestone of the Gatekeeper Grave.]


    [The True Ruler of the Gran Seoul Dungeon can set the location of the Gravestone of the Gatekeeper Grave.]


    Hyukjins eyes picked up several spots. He couldnt see them with his physical eyes, but there were round circles of golden light sparkling in a few ces.


    Finding the location wont be an issue.


    The problem wasnt inserting the gravestone.


    The problem


    New information was registered in Hyukjins head.


    Thanks to the True Ruler effect, he could easily procure information on everything that had to do with the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    ...is that this is a gravestone for a grave.


    It wasnt just something you could stick into any mound of dirt.


    What do you mean? asked Junghwa.


    What do you think of as a grave?


    A ce where a corpse is buried?


    If were to match that definition, someone will need to die.


    Someone first had to die, and then the gravestone had to be inserted at their head, then destroyed.


    What do you mean?


    Hyun Junghwa tensed for a moment. If someone really had to die here, it could be her. After all, it was all of Giantgod against one person.


    No need to be anxious. I never once thought of doing anything to you, Miss Junghwa.


    From that, Junghwa could feel it. Overwhelming her was a given from the start. But his words didnt feel like a lie or a bluff.


    Lets pick this spot.


    Hyukjin stepped onto one of the graves.


    Please shoot me.


    ...What?


    Im sure you know the weakness of a human target.


    What are you saying?! I cant do it.


    Im asking you because I think the person with the gravestone needs to kill me for the best effect.


    But how can you!


    Kim Hyukjin took out his bow and aimed it at Junghwa.


    If you dont shoot me, Ill shoot you.


    Three seconds passed. In the end, Junghwa fired first. The arrow whistled from her Sylphids Wing precisely towards Hyukjins heart.

 Chapter 209

    Chapter 209


    Junghwas eyes widened like saucers.


    He didnt take much damage?


    It was a little bbergasting.


    Howe?


    Her arrow had flown straight and her aim was true,nding precisely on the heart. But Hyukjin hadnt taken much damage.


    Miss Junghwa.


    ...Yes.


    Did you do your best?


    ...


    Of course, she couldnt quite say she had put her all into it, since it was a normal attack and not a special skill.


    I didnt do my best.


    Then please try your best this time.


    In all actuality, Hyukjin himself was a little surprised. He had allowed an attack on the most vulnerable of ces, his heart. He bared his greatest weakness to a long-distance DPS, yet he registered little damage. It felt like less than half of his HP went down, which made him wonder if a stat advantage made this much of a difference.


    I would have been truly disappointed if this was your best, Miss Junghwa.


    ...


    Hyun Junghwa took two steps back and raised her Sylphids Wing.


    Kim Hyukjin.


    She drew the bowstring.


    I know you are a sovereign who can handle a bow well. Her bow still drawn, she asked, But what is with that ridiculous defense?


    It was hard to believe. However his skills as an archer might be, or however good a sovereign he was, such things werent important to Junghwa. She wouldnt be fazed even if he were good at magic. But this was different.


    Archer. Sovereign. Mage. All of them were far from sses with great defense. But Hyukjin, a person with a ss in the same vein, facetanked a direct hit. To his <em>heart.</em> And he was just fine.


    Just what the hell is that iprehensible def


    Hyukjin answered her.


    Guess you could call it stats and overgearing?


    ...


    Actually, being overgeared wasnt ying a role here, since his Great Orc Warrior set was destroyed. He wasnt wearing any outstanding armor. Hed be able to get fantastic armor from the soon-to-open Gardens by the Beach Gate in Singapore, so he hadnt invested in any yet.


    Junghwa nodded. Stats and overgearing, huh?


    She thought there wasnt actually much stat difference between them, so this result couldnt be attributed to a stat advantage. The truth was different, but she misunderstood.


    Just how good are his items?


    What kind of mega armor did he have equipped under that t-shirt? She would have to askter. After all, archers were squishy. It would be ideal if she could get such an OP item.


    Im going for real this time.


    She fired. Junghwa was well aware that she couldnt kill him in one shot, so she notched and fired several times in session.[Using the innate ability Consecutive Rapidfire.]


    Junghwas strength was imbued in Sylphids Wing.


    This is my innate ability, Consecutive Rapidfire.


    She released the bowstring. Despite firing one arrow, several arrows were fired in quick session, her hand moving so quickly it couldnt be seen.


    This was her innate abilityfiring several arrows while consuming only one, arrows made of mana and bearing great destructive power.


    Hyukjin took in her impressive disy.


    Pretty


    <em>Pretty good, </em>was what Hyukjin wanted to say, but before he could finish, he died.


    * * *


    * * *


    Hyukjin dusted himself off, getting up.


    Not a great feeling, is it?


    Sung-gu said, Fuck. I know that feeling too. Your stomach turns and you get all dizzy. Its pretty damn meh.


    It was a feeling everyone here knew, since they had died at least once in PVP zones.


    Unable to hold back her curiosity, Junghwa asked, But how did you revive? This isnt a PVP zone.


    Would you like to know? It wasnt a huge secret or anything. My title has an unlimited resurrection authority in it.


    *Unlimited resurrection within the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    He just didnt say it was limited to the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    Un-Unlimited resurrection authority?


    But then, someone new appeared. That someone looked like a pistol the size of a persons arm. The gun had eyes on it.


    Streamer?


    It was the Intermediate Administrator Junghwa had signed an exclusive contract with, Revolvol.


    Hold on, hold on for a quick sec. How the hell is this possible?


    Senia suddenly appeared as well. A bug review has already been performed. By the Intermediate Administrator contracted to yer So Yoohyun over there, Neptune. Right, Administrator Neptune?


    Those words forced Neptune, the one-eyed pygmy with skin of a shade somewhere between green and emerald, to show himself, too.


    Please confirm my statement, Administrator Neptune.


    ...Thats correct.


    Neptune nced at Hyukjin with a bitter face, recalling how he incurred a loss back then from carelessly challenging Kim Hyukjin.


    Senia continued. You used Forced Submission to pressure yer Kim Hyukjin by unfair means, escting into violence. Afterwards, when the bug review came back negative, Administrator Neptune gained nothing from the process.


    Hyukjin smiled. These days, he really felt that Senia had grown a great deal. Back then, when Neptune was throwing a fit, she hadnt been able to do a thing in protest. Her growth made him feel rather emotional.


    Hyukjin quipped, The Lady of the Scales protected me by using her special authority, Innocent Until Proven Guilty.


    The pistol-shaped Intermediate Administrator, Revolvol, fired into the sky.


    <em>Bang!</em>


    An ear-splitting bang rocked everyones eardrums.


    But still, how does this make any sense? Didja do the bug review properly? What the hell is his ss, to be like this? No matter how you slice it, this is bnce breaking. Miss Angel, take a good look. This is the beginner period. Does this make sense for the beginner period?


    Does it not?


    Why I never, yall are in cahoots. Of course it doesnt make sense. Of course! What kind of bug didja exploit? Spit it out! Dontcha think the same, Neptune?


    Neptune didnt express his opinion, but on the inside, he agreed with Revolvol. Theyd been ying together all this time, but Kim Hyukjin was seriously strange. He was a monster of a yer who growed by leaps and bounds every time Neptune looked away, someone who could not be considered a beginner period yer.


    Senia opened up a window visible to everyone.


    [System Scan Result: No bug values have been discovered.]


    [System Scan Result: No illegitimate methods have been used.]


    The notice window shown here is the result determined by the System.


    Senia had apparently saved the notices as a screenshot. Revolvol was instantly reduced to agape silence, any further nitpicking instantly shut down by the absolute evidence before him.


    Hyukjin was a little amazed. He hadnt thought Senia would have had something like that prepared. Shed grown so much.


    Mind if we move onto the next y? asked Hyukjin.


    Revolvol swung around, fixing his muzzle on Hyukjin. Didja just speak down to me?


    Hyukjin just stared cooly at Revolvol. Must I really be respectful to an Intermediate Administrator who treated me as a bug on conviction alone, without any proof?


    Ha. Forgot how to be afraid, didja? You insane? Revolvols barrel turned red-hot. Unlimited resurrection authority? You messin around because you think thatll save you?


    Revolvol fired his gun a few times into the sky again.


    Shall I show you whether that authoritys real or not? I absolutely dont believe such an authority exists. That kind of broken authority doesnt exist even in the expert period!


    Fine by me if you test it, Hyukjin said with a grin. Is it okay to throw out a spoiler like that though? Mm. This kind of authority doesnt exist in the expert period, huh. Maybe I should make a note of it.


    Revolvols body froze in midair. Wh-What do you mean, spoiler?


    I think you just revealed expert period content to a beginner period yer. Right, Senia?


    Yes. You mentioned expert period content before it happened.


    Youre filming, right?


    I am streaming, yes.


    Intermediate Administrators were not allowed to mention things about the future. Doing so was called a spoiler, and spoilers were a grave crime punished by the System.


    I dont care if you kill me, but Ive got a new field to clear right now.


    A new field. And they were mid-stream.


    What Hyukjin was implicating was simple.


    Revolvol turned away to furiously mumble something, too engrossed in saving his bacon to further oppose Hyukjin.


    Hyun Junghwa blinked, staring at Hyukjin. It was her first time seeing a human verbally dominate one of these terrifying Intermediate Administrators. Junghwa could tell that countless Guardians were barging into Revolvols channel withints right now.


    Water is dripping down Administrator Revolvols barrel.


    In human terms, cold sweat was running down his back. He had rudely interrupted the flow of an important moment leading into exciting new content. Several heavy-hitting Guardians were obviously enraged.


    Senia added one more thing. The Barrier of Blue Light is also very furious.


    The Barrier of Blue Light was the kind of Guardian who cherished a yers safety and wellbeing more than other Guardians. They were, to use Hyukjins words, an overprotective parent. Revolvol had stepped on such a Guardians tail.


    Hyukjin shrugged. We should do what were here to do.


    Basically, this hot potato was for Revolvol to settle.


    Miss Junghwa. I think you can stick the gravestone here and break it.


    ...Okay.


    She put in the gravestone. New information flooded into Junghwa like the rising tide, and her expression darkened, a change Hyukjin noticed.


    Is there a problem?


    Im told a special condition must be met to destroy the gravestone.


    What kind of condition is it?


    Only someone with the Tome of the Divine Wind Physique can break this.


    The Tome of the Divine Wind Physique?


    Yes. Its an item Ive never heard about, which makes me think its simply that rare and valuable.


    Really? Youve never heard of it?


    Hyukjin tapped Sunghyuns back. Sunghyun.


    Yes, Hyung.


    You can break that, right?


    Yes.


    Huh? Junghwa thought, her gaze moving to Sunghyun. Those words Sunghyun had the Tome of the Divine Wind Physique?


    She hadnt known that at all. Hyukjin said, Miss Junghwa. Have you heard about the Korean ystyle?


    The Korean ystyle?


    Such a term has been coined in Italy.


    To be exact, it was coined by Pedro, and the term was steadily spreading through Pietros ck Butterfly guild.


    <em>Koreans have a strange, but fascinating ystyle of gathering all the quest items in advance and clearing the quest as soon as they get it. In the process, they rake in everything there is to take. Its a crazy ystyle, thats for sure. Thats how the Korean yers Ive met were like. But the absurd thing is that they werent Rankers.</em>


    Master Pedros words were the start of the gradual spread of the term Korean ystyle.


    Meanwhile, Sunghyun raised a wind. A small whirlwind formed around the gravestone, and a crack began running down the stone.


    <em>Crack!</em>


    The gravestone crumbled apart with a crack.


    [The Gravestone of the Gatekeeper Grave has been destroyed.]


    [The entrance of the Wind Temple has been opened.]


    It wasnt a ce just anyone could enter. To enter, a yer needed to fulfill one of four conditions.


    [Has absorbed the Tome of the Divine Wind Physique.]


    [A sorcerer who has fulfilled the winds will.]


    [Has a very high wind affinity.]


    [Possesses Sylphids Wing.]


    Another notice followed.[Only yers who have fulfilled one of the four conditions can enter the Wind Temple.]


    Hyukjin immediately chose to enter.[Entering the Wind Temple.]


    Hyukjin, Sunghyun, and Junghwa entered. But it wasnt just the three of them. An unexpected yer from the Giantgod crew hade in with them.


    Sunhwa?


    Hehe. Im here too, Oppa.


    Hyukjin hadnt expected this oue.


    Sunhwa, what condition did you fulfill?

 Chapter 210

    Chapter 210


    Sunhwa, what condition did you fulfill?


    Sunhwa answered, beaming. Apparently, I have high wind affinity.


    Did you know that?


    Nope!


    Sunhwa answered so cheerily that even Hyukjin was nearly at a loss for words. The girl asked back, Why? Is it bad?


    No, not at all.


    It was actually good. Whatever the case, there were definitely times when having a lot of affinity to a certain element came in handy.


    This sort of thing is just pretty rare, thats all.


    Sunhwa tilted her head. But Oppa, your fire affinity seemed better than Sung-gus to me


    ...


    Its not amon thing?


    Hyukjin was speechless for a moment. When she put it like that, she was right. He gathered his thoughts with a cough.


    My fire affinitys not better than his.


    But its simr to Sung-gus even though youre a sovereign. Doesnt that mean you have more talent, Oppa? Since youre on a simr level even without the ss advantage!


    Sunghyun smiled at that, clearly pleased. He kept bragging his head off about being an arson master, but I guess that doesnt amount to much.


    In any case, Hyukjin, Sunhwa, Sunghyun, and Junghwa ended up entering the Wind Temple, which looked simr to the Hill of Blowing Wind theyd cleared in the past.


    Were on a hill. At the top was a building. It was ruins before, but now theres a temple there.


    Right on cue, the wind kicked up just like it had on the Hill of Blowing Wind.[]


    The wind direction was indicated with arrows, and it happened to be blowing towards the temple.


    Lets go up, said Hyukjin.


    They began to climb the hill, the wind at their backs.


    * * *


    * * *


    They didnt see any terribly dangerous monsters on the windy hill upon which the Wind Temple was situated. Only Wraiths around level 20, at most.


    Youve seen these before, right, Sunghyun?


    Yes, Hyung.


    Wraiths were the floating ghost monsters that took the form ofrge seagulls. They were unique in that they were invulnerable to physical attacks.


    Physical attacks dont work on them, if I remember correctly. Ill take them down.


    The party had experience hunting these monsters in the sh gate Hill of Blowing Wind, and Sunghyun made quick work of them all with simple wind magic. What struck Sunghyun was the remarkable ease with which he dispatched them.


    They were dangerous foes at first, but now


    Now, they were all too easy to hunt. With a nearly 20 level difference, Wraiths were no match for Sunghyun.


    The wind blew fiercely.


    Sunghyun asked, Should we get down?


    No.


    Before, they had to get down to avoid getting thrown into the air. It was different now.


    Miss Junghwa. How is it? Theres no hindrance to your movements, is there?


    No, not at all.


    The wind was blowing hard, but they could move forward without difficulty. There was no need to bother with the hassle of getting down and getting back up.


    They arrived at the temple, where Sunghyun discovered a certain fact.


    There are eighteen pirs.


    The temple was built upon eighteen pirs.


    Youre right, it just so happens to have eighteen.


    There had been the same amount on the Hill of Blowing Wind back then, too. The more pirs they smashed, the lower the central pir became, at the cost of increased field difficulty.


    Hyukjin thought back to that time. The pirs back then were named Pir of the Ruined Temple.


    There were two angel statues in front of the temple.


    If theres one thing thats changed, its that there are two angel statues in front of the entrance now.


    The statues were normally not clickable, but he was able to gain information about them through observation.


    [Dewinged Angel Statue 1]


    [Dewinged Angel Statue 2]


    Both were called Dewinged Angel Statues. Hyukjin instantly halted.


    Whats wrong, Oppa?


    I think theres something about those angel statues.


    The reason the Italian information merchant Pietro was recruiting archers was to clear the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate. Hyukjin didnt know whether Pietro would ept his warning and give up on conquering the gate or push ahead anyway.


    The Pietro I know lost over half of his archers and retreated.


    But this was also a possibility: Could it be that it wasnt that the raidcked skill, but ended up so horribly because the yers failed to fulfill a requisite condition?


    If that gate and these Dewinged Angel Statues are rted


    Then might it be possible to gain something from those angel statues, and use that to clear the real Dewinged Angel Statue Gate? And it was possible that Hyun Junghwa cleared the Wind Temple in the past without getting that thing, whatever it was.


    Wind Arrow.


    Sunghyun hunted another Wraith. Afterwards, a monster made of ck smoke, a Ghost, appeared. It was fine for dungeons and fields to have nearly the same structure, but there was definitely something weird about this field being so identical in context and structure to the Hill of Blowing Wind.


    Hyung. As Im sure you just saw, a Ghost showed up.


    Now, even a Ghosts paralyzation toxin wasnt all that threatening. The level indicator that had previously shown up as a question mark was now 28.


    After killing another Ghost, Sunghyun asked, What should we do?


    Junghwa felt amazed upon seeing that.


    I found ying with Sunghyun prettyfortable.


    There wasnt much conversation between them, but in Junghwas opinion, the two were extremelypatible. Sunghyun was always quick to assess the situation and bold in taking action. His leadership was generally on point. But that natural leader was now looking to Kim Hyukjin for direction.


    Complete and total trust.


    Jo Sunghyun himself was an outstanding yer, but he was directing suchplete trust to someone else. By this point, Junghwas interest in Kim Hyukjin, the guildmaster of Giantgod, was greater than ever. She was also curious as to why such a monster of a yer was so obscure.


    Hyukjin hummed. Hard to say. I get the feeling theres something about these angel statues.


    Sunhwa and I will cover you.


    Ill cover you too, added Junghwa. Though it doesnt look like you really need any covering.


    A little time passed. Hyukjin wasnt able to find anything particrly special from the Dewinged Angel Statues. The one thing he noted was that there was a disparity between their name and form.


    The name is Dewinged Angel Statue, but


    Both stone angels had a pair of wings on them.


    The two angel statues are called Dewinged Angel Statues. But both of them have wings.


    Sunhwa said with another innocent smile, Then do we have to break them?


    Hm.


    Hyukjin thought of the past, staring at Hyun Junghwa.


    Did the past Hyun Junghwa figure out what these angel statues mean?


    The names couldnt be seen without using Observers Eye. It was highly likely she had just thought of them as decor. No, she definitely had.


    What? the archer asked, conscious of his gaze.


    It might not have anything to do with clearing this ce.


    The past Junghwa probably cleared the gate with her own unique method without doing anything about these angel statues. That was how she got the Complete Sylphids Wing, and why Pietro failed to clear the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate.


    Then its inefficient and unnecessary to investigate and continue with the Dewinged Angel Statues here.


    But just ignoring them felt less than satisfactory, too. It could either be a giant waste of time or a huge boon.


    What should I do?


    Hyukjin thought hard for a moment.


    [The Nameless Observer is observing.]


    [The Courageous Lion King is bored.]


    [The Lady of the Scales praises your cautious attitude.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain feels stifled.]


    The Guardians sent messages ording to their personalities in response to the dy caused by Hyukjins pondering.


    One more Guardian reacted.[The Night of Shooting Stars watches with interest.]


    The dine-and-dashing Stage 2 nouveau riche Guardian was once again making an appearance.


    Oh?


    He was back. Hyukjin hadntpletely cleared the Qualifications of an Outstanding Bowman quest yet. To be precise, he hadnt yet gotten the reward, the Tome of the Divine Bow Physique.


    He chose to reappear here?


    Hyukjin thought back.


    The guildmaster of ck Butterfly, Pietro and the archers he gathered. The Dewinged Angel Statue Gate. The Wind Temple. Sylphids Wing. The Night of Shooting Stars.


    Theyre all rted to wind or bows.


    There was no way a Stage 2 Guardian, who yers called a lottery, would dine-and-dash. Which could mean that this Guardian had waited until this moment.


    For this moment.


    Archer. Dewinged Angel Statue. Sylphids Wing. The Night of Shooting Stars.


    Hyukjin came to a conclusion. It could be that he would finally acquire the Tome of the Divine Bow Physique today. If that tome was on the table, then a slight gamble would be required.


    Well cut off the wings.


    For now, he decided not to do it himself, since he didnt know how his Observer penalty would kick in.


    Sunghyun. You do it.


    Yes, Hyung.


    Jo Sunghyun uttered the magic incantation.


    <em>Wind Cutter.</em>


    The wings of the Dewinged Angel Statues were cut off. Hyukjins observation was right on the money.[The Dewinged Angel Statues are awakening.]


    That moment, Hyukjins rm bells went off.


    Everyone, get down!


    <em>Crash!</em>


    The entire field quaked.


    The two stone statues slowly descended from their tforms. Encrusted in their foreheads was one red gem each.


    Red light shed from the gems, firing two rays of red light through the air that everyone avoided because they had immediately dropped to the ground. Cold sweat ran down Hyukjins back.


    What was that just now?


    He felt it immediatelythe savage power imbued in those red beams. Even slightly grazing those beams would turn ones entire body into a pile of ash.


    They all heard a voice.


    [Who deprived me of my wings?]


    [Who deprived me of my wings?]


    The Dewinged Angel Statues eyes gleamed with red light. Their eyes were red, and so were the gems on their foreheads. Hyukjin felt puny before them.


    What an insane aura.


    It appeared, by all ounts, that they had poked a sleeping giant.


    Dewinged Angel Statue LVL ?


    The level wasnt shown. He could just feel it. It was a simr feeling to when he went up against the Fire Giants. The stifling feeling of being tiny before a far stronger foe, like facing a tsunami, struck Hyukjin head-on.


    Just then, the wind blew.[]


    It was then that Hyukjin knew. Everything that happened on the Hill of Blowing Wind in the past was a foundation for today. That sh gate was a kindness gifted to them by the System, a dress rehearsal, so to speak.[Eye of Perception detects savage bloodthirst.]


    The bloodthirst he felt on the Hill of Blowing Wind was just regr bloodthirst. Back then, a Ghost was aiming for Hyukjins head, but this time, it was a Dewinged Angel Statue.


    The strategy is the same as before.


    He checked the wind, which was changing by the second.[]


    And he predicted the trajectory of the red beam, which changed with the wind. Not only that, he had to understand how exactly his body was being affected by the wind.


    A red beam came shooting towards him.


    Ive done this before.


    Hed gone through these paces before, so the process was more familiar. He could do it, and he could do it well. The red beam drew an odd arc in the air.


    Its essentially the same as before.


    When dodging the Ghosts long-ranged marbles, he had done his best to make the smallest, most efficient movement. That part was the same now.


    The difference is that it was the Ghosts paralyzing poison then and the Dewinged Angel Statues beam now.


    Only that.[Observers Eye investigates the flow of the true nature of things.]


    The attacker might be different, but Hyukjin, the dodger, had grown a great deal as well.


    I can see the trajectory.


    It was the same as back then.


    Half a step to the right.


    The Dewinged Angel Statues red beam shot past Hyukjin, just barely missing. His heart thumped.


    If I get hit by that, Im dead.


    He had to destroy them somehow. But how?


    There has to be a way.


    He racked his brain.


    This might just work.


    He decided to try.

 Chapter 211

    Chapter 211


    Lets give it a try.


    There was nothing to lose by trying.


    Die.


    This ce was connected to the Gran Seoul Dungeon. They destroyed the Gravestone of the Gatekeeper Grave in the Gran Seoul Dungeons Marvin Cemetery, which brought them here.


    In addition, Hyukjin hadnt heard any notices like The Gran Seoul Dungeon has been cleared or You have left the Gran Seoul Dungeon.[The True Ruler of the Gran Seoul Dungeon title is taking effect.]


    But the effect wasntplete.


    [The current field is a field connected to the Gran Seoul Dungeon.]


    [The grade of the True Ruler of the Gran Seoul Dungeon authority has decreased.]


    The Dewinged Angel Statue stopped moving for a moment. Its red eyes and gems stared down on Hyukjins party like a hawk eyeing its prey.[You cannot exterminate the Dewinged Angel Statue.]


    But he did confirm something.


    I <em>can </em>influence them, to some extent.


    He immediately adjusted the difficulty.


    [Adjusting the difficulty with the True Ruler of the Gran Seoul Dungeon title.]


    [Lowering the difficulty to the easiest setting.]


    [The current field is a field connected to the Gran Seoul Dungeon.]


    His authority was unable to exert its full strength.


    [The difficulty has fallen.]


    [The prowess of Dewinged Angel Statue 1 has partially fallen.]


    [The prowess of Dewinged Angel Statue 2 has partially fallen.]


    He debuffed the statues using his title effect. That alone was a lifesaver. Now that the enemies were debuffed, it was time for their party to be buffed.[Using the special skill Hunters March.]


    Hunters March. A skill that shined in a one vs. one battle. The duration was 120 seconds, and the buff target was, of course, Kim Hyukjin.


    He immediately used another buff.[Using the special skill Conductors Hymn.]


    Conductors Hymn. A skill that shined in a group battle. The duration was, like Hunters March, 120 seconds. The buff targets were the party members here: Jo Sunghyun, Kim Sunhwa, and Hyun Junghwa.


    Consumable items will have a 30% increased effect. If you have them, use them all now.


    As he said those words, Sunhwas body glowed blue, indicating that she had absorbed something registered in her slots.


    I used a potion that temporarily increases defense.


    Sunhwa knew exactly what she had to do even without a detailed exnation from Hyukjin. She had to block that attack, that extremely dangerous beam.


    Hyukjin nodded.


    Sorry, Sunhwa.


    Nothing to be sorry about. Sunhwa took out arge, white shield. Blocking attacks is my job.


    The shield gleamed all over. Hyukjin knew about the item.


    Shining with Glory.


    The shields name was Shining with Glory. The extremelyrge white shield was especially good at blocking long-ranged attacks. It was clear that Sunhwa had prepared the items she needed, as an excellent tank should, so she could switch as needed.


    She held up the shield, her small stature dwarfed by its massive size. Sunhwa didnt appear to find it at all heavy.


    I dont think I can block it all the way.


    The difficulty might have been reduced, and the angel statues prowess was decreased, but what couldnt be done just couldnt be done. Hyukjin was well aware of that, too.


    Set knocking it away as your goal.


    These angel statues might even be stronger than the Fire Giants. Blocking an attack from one head-on was impossible.


    When Sunhwa knocks the attack away, Miss Junghwa and Sunghyun should work in tandem.


    Sunghyun nodded, realizing what he had to do.


    I will provide support.


    You can do a good job, right? We dont have many chances.


    Yes.


    Sunghyun had alreadyboed many times with Choi Sung-gu. Sung-gus destructive power was greater, while Sunghyun had the upper hand in precision and speed.


    Ive also worked with Miss Junghwa a few times.


    Hyukjin yelled, Get down!


    Everyone instantly dropped. A red beam shed past.


    The destructive power has definitely gone down.


    Also, it was impossible to get close to them. These statues had a special ability that prevented approach.


    Sunhwa. Just like now, dodge everything you can dodge. Ill givemands from the back.


    Okay.


    There was no need to block every single attack.


    The angel statues attacks will get faster and faster.


    No one had told him that; he just knew from seeing them.


    The red gems are their strongest means of attack, as well as their most vulnerable point. Thats their weakness.


    He read that through Eye of Perception.


    Eye of Perception is an eye of intuition, meaning the user gains concrete knowledge about objects in the outer world through their sense of intuition. It allows the user to intuit and receive information about the target.


    They get weaker immediately after attacking.


    That was what his intuition told himthat directly after firing a red beam, they were at their weakest, and if they could strike the red gems at the exact timing, they could hunt these statues.


    The wind will get stronger and stronger.


    Right on cue, the wind blew in.[]


    There were five arrows. It wasnt time yet. He bided his time.


    Fire when there are at least seven arrows and the wind is going upwards, immediately after the red beam is fired.


    Junghwa focused on Hyukjins words, her Sylphids Wing raised. It was incredibly nice to have someone assessing the situation for her and giving overall orders.


    I just have to focus on the bow.


    That was what she could do best. She set her mind fully on the bow, and the bow alone. It was obvious at a nce that those angel statues were nearly impossible to hunt by ordinary means. Junghwa understood Hyukjins words. The wind that went upwards was no ordinary wind. It was an artificial breeze harboring a little mana.


    Junghwa focused.


    Let the wind give me strength.


    That wind blowing in would pour strength into her bow. Happily, Sylphids Wing was an item with very high wind affinity.


    Sunghyuns precise control will bump the damage up even more.


    She had to attack at the exact moment.


    The target is the red gem.


    If she released the bowstring the moment Sunhwa knocked away the beam, her arrow would reach the red gem around the time when the red beam was fizzling out.


    Right


    Hyukjin spoke.


    Now.


    The wind blew.[]


    It was a gale.


    * * *


    * * *


    Sunhwa ran.


    Uryaaaaa!


    And with a loud cry


    Sturdier than Anything!


    She used her skill Sturdier than Anything. Anotherrge white shield appeared in ce over her white shield.


    She followed that up with another skill.


    tinum Shield.


    It was a beginner skill, but it was easy and quick to activate and had a good effect. tinum Shield was stacked on top.


    Slightly lower my body


    The wind was blowing upwards, which meant it was blowing against the beam. The mana within the wind was shing against the mana of the beam. Right now, the wind was on their side.


    Lower my center of bnce.


    She twisted halfway at the waist, pointing her shoulder forward and bringing Shining with Glory up to the red beam.


    Surface to surface, beam to shield, force against buttress.


    At exactly the moment when she made contact, she tilted the shield ever so slightly.


    Ngh!


    Her shoulder felt like it was going to be destroyed. The pain that raced up her shoulder rattled her insides, burning. It was like her whole body was on fire. The savage mana imbued in the red beam swept through Sunhwas body.


    I can endure it!


    It was agonizing, but she didnt fear it. She was no longer the girl who was rendered helpless by a Goblin child.


    I can do it!


    The trajectory of the red beam changed and shot into the sky, then turned in the wind like a boomerang, piercing the clouds.


    Meanwhile, Hyun Junghwa set her sights on the red gem.


    Focus.


    Only the red gem and she existed in the world. She only saw the red gem. It loomedrge in her eyes, and she heard nothing. An intense gale was gusting around her, but that gale could not shake her.


    That was because Jo Sunghyun was helping her. The wind magician bolstered by the Tome of the Divine Wind Physique had wind affinity second to none other. He controlled the wind, supporting her.


    <em>Fwip!</em>


    Junghwa released the bowstring.


    Sunghyuns wind gave an added boost. His wind, which usually assisted Choi Sung-gus me Whip, now assisted Hyun Junghwas arrow.[]


    Sunghyuns magic, Junghwas arrow, and the powerful mana-charged gust. All three came together into one devastatingly powerful shot.


    <em>Bam!</em>


    The arrownded precisely in the middle of the Dewinged Angel Statues forehead.


    <em>Crackcra-crack!</em>


    Cracks began to spider along the red gem.


    Sunghyun rapidly gathered his magic. Wind Arrow.


    It was a simple spell, but the gale was still blustering right now. The spell was as fast as it was simple. Junghwa also drew the bowstring again, using her innate ability, Consecutive Rapidfire.


    The three arrows shot off one after another, all of themnding directly on the red gem.


    [Dewinged Angel Statue 2 has been destroyed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [700 Coins acquired.]


    A considerable amount of EXP and Coins came in. Hunting a level 20 monster normally yielded about just twenty Coins, but they had gotten seven hundred. That meant the statues levels were extremely high.


    We did it.


    They sessfully hunted one of them. Junghwa felt certain now that they would be able to hunt the other one as well.


    Huh?


    But somehow


    The other one


    Was destroyed.


    What happened?


    She had put every bit of her focus on destroying one red gem, entering a state of extreme concentration where only she and the gem existed, leaving her no presence of mind to pay attention to things happening around her.


    Junghwa heard Hyukjins voice.


    Good work.


    Her eyes whipped towards him, noticing there were beads of sweat dripping down his forehead and his fingertips were faintly trembling.


    Junghwa wasnt able to hold back her curiosity.


    Mr. Hyukjin. Im embarrassed to say this, but I was so focused on one red gem that I didnt see anything else.


    She was curious. Just what in the world happened to the other one? Was it set so that destroying one would destroy the other?


    I destroyed it.


    What?


    Im also good with the bow.


    With the bow?


    It wasnt impossible. Junghwa herself had pulled it off. But she had done it with Jo Sunghyuns help.


    I have a sovereign ability that can buff me.


    Even so


    A non-archer ss yer like myself cant do something like this? Is that what you want to say?


    ...


    You saw it yourself. Ah, you were focusing on the other gem, so you didnt. But the result is as you see.


    Both Dewinged Angel Statues were destroyed. Junghwa was burning with curiosity. Kim Hyukjin didnt even have the archer ss and wasnt aided by Jo Sunghyun, so how? How did he achieve the same result? Just what did this man have? What did he do, to reach the same result with that sloppy form?


    If I find that out


    <em>Ill be able to reach another level, too.</em>


    It is presumptuous of me It was taboo to ask about another persons secrets or abilities, but just this once, she really had to ask. But how did you do it? It doesnt seem like you simply fired your bow. Im certain there was another factor in y.


    Do I have to tell you?


    You are not obligated to, no. As desperate as she was to know, she still didnt cross the line. However, if you teach me, I will be sure to repay your kindness.


    Hyun Junghwa hated saying this sort of thing. But today, she decided to pull out all the stops.


    I am a second gen chaebol. And Im the youngest child.


    She was convinced that this was an opportunity she could not afford to miss, a chance for her to grow as an archer. Enlightenment seemed within arms reach.


    ...


    ...


    A slight period of silence descended, and Junghwas face turned bright red.


    Th-Thats how earnest I am right now. I want to grow stronger.


    Hyukjin grinned. Ill tell you, he said, thinking that his secret probably didnt have much to do with her growth.


    Unaware of what Hyukjin was thinking, Junghwas heart began to thump.

 Chapter 212

    Chapter 212


    The broken pieces of the Dewinged Angel Statues were scattered by the wind, breaking down into pebbles and then disappearing as powder.


    Hyukjin said, I have a special skill.


    ...


    Junghwa could not pester him for details. Special skills, innate abilities, ss skills, etc. Revealing ones hidden cards was a disadvantageous move, something you only did with trustworthypanions or party members you needed to cooperate right at that moment.


    But Kim Hyukjin shared such important information very readily.


    Its a skill that determines the opponents weakness and strikes it, no matter what.<blockquote>


    [Sword of Insight]


    An advanced innate ability created bybining and pooling the merits of Excellent Strike and Sword Path Tracing in one ce. No matter the situation, it will lock onto the enemys weakness and deliver a powerful attack at the most vulnerable point.</blockquote>


    He didnt reveal its name, nor did he say it was actually a sword-rted technique. IfHyun Junghwa heard that, it was highly likely she would either not believe him or have a mental breakdown.


    Its actually a sword technique, but I synthesized it into a bow technique using Unique Ability Fusion. It somehow worked when I applied it to the arrow.


    He kept those words to himself, but in any case, he didnt lie.


    I stacked another title effect onto that skill.


    ...You have another title other than True Ruler?


    Yes. Luckily.


    Junghwa nodded. Titles were pretty difficult to get, but she could acknowledge it if the title holder was Kim Hyukjin. She believed he had two titles at the very least.


    He might even have three.


    In fact, he had eight, but there was no way Junghwa could have known that.


    That title has a 20% damage buff.


    That was the effect of Excellent yer.


    <em>20%</em>?


    Not 2%, but 20%. Junghwas jaw dropped wide open. A 20% amplification effect. Shed never heard of such a thing.


    But that wasnt quite enough, so I also drew on my sovereign skill, which increases crit chance.


    Plus one more thing.


    Arrows are consumable items, right?


    Technically, yes.


    And what I just did was a 1 vs. 1 fight.


    Right.


    I have a sovereign exclusive ability that amplifies item effects by another 30%.


    ...


    Junghwa was silent. The numbers she was hearing werent 2% or 3%, but 20% and 30%. Kim Hyukjin was a yer on a scale she had never once encountered.


    But didnt you just give that same buff to us?


    I did. I have a skill to give the same buff to myself.


    Having experienced it herself, Junghwa knew how potent it was. She just hadnt expected he could ovep it twice.


    Very well. Junghwa nodded. I will take it as your title and skills being broken and not that you used some kind of special ability as an archer.


    Itd be best to think of it like that, yes.


    Unique Ability Fusion was also a skill, after all. What she said wasnt wrong.


    I guess there was nothing for me to learn.


    Unfortunately.


    But a promise is a promise. Here.


    Junghwa handed him an item. It was called Angel Statues Wings.


    Youre giving this to me?


    Youre not going to refuse?


    Ill dly take what is offered.


    That kind of makes me want to take it back. Isnt it good form to refuse once out of courtesy?


    Youre the one who wanted to give it to me first.


    Junghwas brows furrowed a little. Somehow, she got the feeling she was getting more entangled with every word.


    But still, this is kinda mean.


    Just then, Hyukjin heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [The Night of Shooting Stars is deeply awed by your archery.]</blockquote>


    The dine-and-dash suspect, the Stage 2 Guardian Night of Shooting Stars, appeared again with a message expressing his awe. Finally, after a long time, Hyukjin got a quest clear notification.<blockquote>


    [Qualifications of an Outstanding Bowman has been perfectly cleared.]


    [Receiving the reward.]</blockquote>


    Which was none other<blockquote>


    [Tome of the Divine Bow Physique acquired.]</blockquote>


    than the Tome of the Divine Bow Physique itself.


    He wasnt a dine-and-dasher.


    It did take a long time, but he got it in the end. As he expected, you had to kill something on the level of these Dewinged Angel Statues to get a reward of this level.


    Senia faithfully fulfilled her duty. Her expression was as t as a board, but she was doing her best to respond to the massive sponsorship, allowing Hyukjin to focus on his ying.


    Hyukjin smiled.


    Now then. Shall we go inside?


    * * *


    * * *


    The inside of the Wind Temple was different from its outside appearance. The ceiling was far higher. It wasnt an ordinary ceilingit was so high you had to tilt your head all the way back to barely see the top. A fresco was painted on the ceiling in western ir.


    Geometric patterns.


    Between the patterns were nude humans he presumed were gods. Each naked person wasying down, pointing at something.


    The rectangr border of the ceiling was glowing with faint purple light.


    Eighteen pirs.


    But there was one difference from when they saw the pirs outside.


    A Central Pir in the middle.


    The pir,rger and greater in diameter than the others, went through the ceiling high into the air.


    Its like the Wind Temple from before.


    Before, Jo Sunghyun scaled that pir and brought down the Offering Box. If this ce went by the same schema, there might be something on top of that pir.


    Junghwa fired her bow.


    <em>Splurt!</em>


    The arrow dispatched its target, a level 22 Bigmouth Lizard. A bunch of them were descending from the Central Pir.


    Theres also a Bigmouth Lizard, same as before.


    It was all too identical.


    Inmyeonjos will probably show up, too.


    Sure enough, an Inmyeonjo appeared. The monster with a human face and birds body was level 29. Both Bigmouth Lizards and Inmyeonjos were weak monsters.


    Junghwas hand moved without stopping.<blockquote>


    [Using the innate ability Consecutive Rapidfire.]</blockquote>


    As expected from the future Divine Archer, her aim was true. She hunted a whopping twelve Bigmouth Lizards and Inmyeonjos without Hyukjin having to do a thing. The monsters were no big threat.


    It really is the same as before, said Hyukjin.


    Looks like Ill need to go up. I also have the Wind Shoes.


    I think so, yeah. But lets look around a little longer.


    Before, Jo Sunghyun would have been ripped into pieces by the mana current if he slipped up even a little. Getting separated from that Central Pir meant death.


    But I dont see the mana current this time.


    It <em>appeared</em> to be extremely simple. All they had to do was send Sunghyun up the pir and bring down whatever was up there, be it the Offering Box or something else. That would bring them closer to the clear.


    Is it really that easy?


    Probably not. They were missing something.


    But Oppa, didnt we smash the pirs before? asked Sunhwa.


    We did.


    That was another difference.


    Back then, we had to destroy seven pirs for the Central Pir to appear.


    But now, it was already there.


    The more pirs we smashed, the lower the Central Pir became. In exchange, the monsters became more fierce. Hyukjin came to a conclusion. That Central Pir is the key.


    He turned to Junghwa. Do you think you can destroy the Central Pir?


    Ill try.


    In no time at all, Junghwa found herself faithfully following Hyukjins orders. She had acknowledged him as a leader without even realizing it.


    She changed her weapon to a bow zing with fire. It was a slow, but powerful fire attribute item called me Toad.<blockquote>


    [Using the special skill Explosion.]</blockquote>


    The arrow she fired hit the pir.


    <em>Babang!</em>


    An explosion rocked the temple. After several attacks, the pir copsed, leaving a small circr hole through which the sky was visible in the ceiling where it had been.<blockquote>


    [1 pir has been destroyed.]


    [The monsters have be fiercer.]</blockquote>


    With that, Hyukjin was sure of it.


    Theres an order.


    It was simr to the past, but not the same. The details were different.


    We got the first one right.


    It was time for the next.


    If we mess up the order


    There was a high chance this temple would be sealed off, and the field would cease to exist. If that happened, everyone here would die.


    The former Hyun Junghwa cleared this?


    The angel statues aside, that was unlikely. He was absolutely sure she hadnt managed it on her own. Someone had definitely helped her.


    Hyukjin fired a shot with Sylphids Wing.


    Miss Junghwa, over there.


    Junghwa quickly caught on.<blockquote>


    [Using the special skill Explosion.]</blockquote>


    She began a barrage on the pir Hyukjin had struck. Sunghyun pitched in as well, and together, the pir quickly came down.


    Next, this one.


    Their party began to take down the eighteen pirs one by one in order. Thinking back to what he learned from the Hill of Blowing Wind, Hyukjin decided to only destroy twelve.


    His experience back then clued him in now. They couldnt destroy all eighteen pirs. The temple woulde down on them. Smashing twelve and leaving six intact was the most efficient way; Hyukjin was sure of it. He checked the ceiling.


    The half-naked god located at the first pir they destroyed, the central one, was pointing at another pir. That was the one they took down next. Another half-naked god was there, pointing at another pir, which they smashed.


    The fresco above them wasnt just for show. It was the key to clearing this ce. At the end of every finger was a pir, tracing an order of pirs starting from the central one.<blockquote>


    [7 pirs have been destroyed.]


    [The true Central Pir is being generated.]</blockquote>


    The copsed Central Pir came together again in mere seconds, as if time were being rewound. A massive pir glowing faintly with golden light and marked with various geometric patterns appeared before them, shooting through the ceiling high into the air.


    Sunghyun, please.


    Yes, Hyung.


    Be careful, the mana currents strong.


    Yes.


    Sunghyun was confident. This time, hed absorbed the Tome of the Divine Wind Physique, and his level was much higher. He could climb the pir far better thanst time.


    Well support you from below.


    Sunghyun began to run, the Wind Shoes equipped. He mbered up the Central Pir. In the meantime, Hyukjin, Sunhwa, and Junghwa set out to destroy more pirs.


    Here.


    Sunhwa and Junghwa faithfully carried out Hyukjins orders.<blockquote>


    [12 pirs have been destroyed.]


    [The monsters have be fiercer.]</blockquote>


    That was the cue for a new monsters appearance.


    Thats<blockquote>


    GrudgeInmyeonjo LVL 37</blockquote>


    It was a level 37 monster. It was simr to anInmyeonjo, but gave off a purple aura.


    Curse type.


    The Grudge Inmyeonjo was capable of a fairly powerful curse. It spread its wings in flight. Its target appeared to be Sunghyun, who was climbing the Central Pir.


    Sunhwa, aggro.


    Sunhwa responded immediately.


    Taunt!


    Like the genius tank she was, she aggroed it in one shot. The Grudge Inmyeonjos eyes glowed purple as it let loose an eerie cry at Sunhwa. It folded its wings, dropping into a dive. It had a human face, but its mouth was extremelyrge and gleamed with the sharp fangs of a savage beast.


    Junghwa immediately shot an arrow.


    <em>Clink!</em>


    But her arrow failed to prate the Grudge Inmyeonjos barrier. This monster had a strong resistance to long-ranged attacks. But there was no time to use the powerful Explosion or another special skill that could punch through its barrier. The Inmyeonjo was approaching too quickly.


    Junghwa shouted, Sunhwa!


    Normally, she would politely say Miss Sunhwa, but the honorific fell away in her haste.


    No!


    However, Hyukjin knew what the Grudge Inmyeonjo was trying to do.


    The suicide attack, Bitter Grudge.


    The Grudge Inmyeonjo was the evolved version of an Inmyeonjo. It didnt just have higher stats. It had a powerful one-time-use attack called Bitter Grudge, a suicide bombing. Its power was proportionate to the cost.


    Its dangerous, even for Sunhwa.


    That suicide attack came with a potent curse. Even if Sunhwa blocked it somehow, she would be left with an aftermath effect, either disease or permanent paralyzation. At this point in time, there were no advanced priests who could dispel a Grudge Inmyeonjos Bitter Grudge. It was best to avoid it in the first ce.


    Shes my sister.


    Of course he wasnt going to let such a shitty attacknd. Hyukjin spoke to the panicking Junghwa, looking every bit rxed.


    Have I told you already?


    The artifact bearing the same name as the Queen of the Sword Forest, the transcendent sword with the stigma of cursing her heavenly talent.


    He pulled out Isabel.


    My main weapon isnt the bow, but the sword.

 Chapter 213

    Chapter 213


    My main weapon isnt the bow, but the sword.


    He was saying it to Hyun Junghwa, but was actually directing the words to the Guardians.


    The Guardians were big suckers for clich lines like this. That was why he said it, all while feigning more ease to amp up the dramatic tension. Then, he moved at exactly the right time to prevent any danger to Sunhwa.<blockquote>


    [The Nameless Observer is observing.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain is enjoying your grandiose air.]


    [The Whispering Devil is having fun.]</blockquote>


    Isabel also happened to wake up.


    (Husband! Im awake! Eh? Whats with that mudfish-lookin thing?)


    (A mudfish is flying in the sky?)


    Hyukjin used sh Step.<blockquote>


    [Using the special skill sh Step.]</blockquote>


    He instantly got onto the back of the plummeting Grudge Inmyeonjo and swung Isabel.<blockquote>


    [Using Isabels innate ability Beat em, Beat em, Beat em Harder.]</blockquote>


    Isabel shrieked. (Husband! Im a sword! A de!)


    (Im not a cluuuub!)


    But her screams fell on deaf ears. His legs wrapped firmly around the Grudge Inmyeonjos neck, Hyukjin rained blows on the monsters head.


    <em>Bam! Bam! Bam!</em>


    Loud impacts rang out.


    The talent Isabel was granted by the heavens and that ended up forcibly sealed away by her once again shined in all its glory.<blockquote>


    [+70% damage]


    [+14% attack speed]</blockquote>


    <em>Bam! Bam! Bam!</em>


    Hyukjin whacked the head over and over, which registered as consecutive blows.<blockquote>


    [+7%bo damage bynding consecutive blows.]


    [+7% damage]


    [+7% damage]</blockquote>


    He also scored a lucky hit.<blockquote>


    [Critical hit!]</blockquote>


    With the crit notification, the Inmyeonjo faltered and fell forward.


    <em>Thud!</em>


    It fell limply to the ground, or more urately, flopped down like a deted balloon.


    Isabel was enraged.


    (Ha Husband. Mark my words, vengeance will be mine. You wont get away with this, never.)


    Hyukjin grinned. I took it down nicely thanks to you.


    Isabels de quivered. (Im asking you to treat me a little more beautifully.)


    Hyukjin was getting a little more used to dealing with Isabel. He didnt just ignore her like before. For a sword, she was very sensitive, and as her sword bride, Hyukjin epted that part of her personality. She was still a transcendent sword. He had to cherish her.


    Youre beautiful no matter what ability you use. Isnt that right?


    <em>So why do you reject your genius talent? </em>He did his best not to convey that thought. Weirdly enough, Isabel didnt respond.


    But shes not sleeping.


    Her ego was definitely active, but he didnt hear a response. Whatever, it was fine as long as she was quiet. Hyukjin squatted down next to the limp Grudge Inmyeonjo.


    Alrighty, lets pluck the feathers.


    Sunhwa squatted down next to him, no questions asked. Like this?


    <em>Crunch!</em>


    She pulled out a fistful of feathers, leaving a big hole in the Grudge Inmyeonjos body.


    The feathers arent rotting away. Try plucking them carefully, one by one.


    They were fortunate to acquire these feathers here. But he didnt say that.


    Gotcha. Urgh. Oppa. These things feel weird. Its like theyre melting after getting plucked.


    Theyre probably reacting with your sweat. Mm. Dont hold onto them for too long. I dont think thats good for you.


    Junghwa was a little baffled by the sudden transition to plucking feathers.


    What is there to gain from plucking these?


    You get items. From what I can see, these feathers should fetch a pretty penny.


    You can get items like this? They normally disappear if you collect them like this.


    That was because they werent formally dropped items.


    Mm, somehow I think we can just pluck this one.


    ...


    Hyukjin continued. You have sharp eyes, right, Miss Junghwa?


    She was a long-ranged DPS. Of course her eyes had to be keen. She also had a special ability rted to eyesight.


    Please keep checking to see if anything has happened to Sunghyun.


    ...Yes. Ive been watching him.


    Junghwa turned her attention to following Sunghyuns path up the Central Pir. Before long, the Grudge Inmyeonjo was as bald as an egg.


    Sunhwa got up, dusting her butt. Kim Darong. I was faster, right?


    A [?] mark appeared over Darongis head. He was wearing a haughty expression that clearly rejected her im.<blockquote>


    [?]</blockquote>


    Darongi pulled out a massive heap of feathers from his Inventory. The genius thief was far more skilled at collection/gathering than the genius tank.


    Sunhwas hands curled into fists. She had no choice but to acknowledge her defeat before the obvious proof.


    Aw, man.


    Music notes danced above Darongis head.<blockquote>


    []</blockquote>


    Hyukjin swung Isabel at the fully plucked Grudge Inmyeonjo, finishing it off with the clean, swift strike Isabel wanted. Junghwa watched.


    For sure.


    His swordsmanship looked more sophisticated than his archery.


    Mr. Hyukjin. Earlier you moved in a special way.


    Yes, I have sword skills.


    sh Step was the original Sword Empress bread and butter technique. Hyukjin continued with a smile. Swords don''t have much reach, so its hard to fight monsters or yers without a special foot technique.


    Thats true, but


    She really couldnt tell what his real ss was.


    That rush just now wasnt a simple foot technique.


    It was nearly instantaneous teleportation. How in the world was he able to take down a bird-type monster plummeting straight down with such ease? The more she saw, the more he revealed, the more fascinating his ystyle became to her. Those movements, she hadnt seen anything close to that from any other swordsmen.


    Is that just how the sovereign ss is?


    Junghwa checked her Inventory.


    Just like you said, the feathers arent disappearing.


    Yes, were lucky.


    Luck?


    Can this be called luck?


    She had killed many monsters up until now, but this was her first time collecting(?) items before the monster died. Hyukjin had gone through the hassle of plucking the feathers one by one, knowing they wouldnt disappear.


    Junghwa nodded.


    ...Luck, you say So it was luck.


    Yes. I just had a hunch.


    Hyukjin didnt offer a detailed exnation. This was actuallymon knowledge ten years in the future, but he couldnt very well say that. Junghwa also didnt dig further. They had killed the Grudge Inmyeonjo, but that didnt mean they cleared the Wind Temple. There was still a long way to go.


    Just then, Junghwas Hawkeye caught sight of something.


    The Central Pir was tall. It soared high up through the clouds. Junghwa peered through the lofty clouds all the way from the ground.


    Something is forming.


    Hyukjin also peered into the sky.


    What is it?


    He couldnt see it. At least in this aspect, Hyun Junghwa had the upper hand in being able to see further away.


    But I can see the mana is moving.


    He didnt know what was forming, but he had a feeling.


    I think a monster is spawning.


    There was no Offering Box in the ce where it should be. Instead, a monster spawned with an explosive burst of mana.


    Junghwa rapidly took out her bow.


    Mr. Hyukjin. That buff earlier, could you apply it again?


    Of course.


    Conductors Hymn had a cooldown of 360 seconds. It could be used again.<blockquote>


    [Using the special skill Conductors Hymn.]</blockquote>


    Junghwa downed a Focus Potion at the same time. She didnt have many of them, but she decided not to be stingy. She could see via Hawkeye that Sunghyun was in danger.<blockquote>


    [Using the skill Pration.]</blockquote>


    Junghwa hurriedly fired an arrow.


    * * *


    * * *


    <em>Ten seconds before Hyun Junghwa fired her bow.</em>


    Jo Sunghyun saw something, somethingrge and red. The red area was rimmed with ivory white things that looked like teeth. Not even one secondter, he could tell.


    Theyre teeth.


    In other words, thatrge red thing was the mouth of some creature. This mysterious creature was opening its maw and descending from further up along the Central Pir.


    Dammit.


    In the blink of an eye, that red mouth came much, much closer. That was how it felt to Sunghyun.


    He hastily mustered his mana.


    Wind Arrow!


    The spell was basic and simple, which also meant it could be used on the fly.


    Ngh!


    He was struck with the sensation of being swallowed in somethings maw. It felt like his hastily cast magic was unable to deal any damage to that mouth.


    Just then


    There was a splurt, followed by a low-pitched scream.


    <em>Gwaaaar!</em>


    And then, Sunghyuns word brightened.


    What was that? He quickly realized. It was an <em>illusion</em>.


    He wasnt actually trapped in its mouth, but was given the illusion that he was, making him freeze and hindering his ability to react. Thankfully, that illusion was broken by his arrow.


    I cant fight properly here.


    He quickly made a decision. When the illusion shattered, he immediately began to descend the Central Pir again. A constant stream of arrows wasing from below.


    Sunghyun bit his lips.


    I wont use any magic.


    He decided to focus solely on descending the pir, to trust the arrows that were covering him. He had two reliable long-ranged DPSes on his side, and both of them were the most skilled people Sunghyun knew. He decided to leave his backpletely to them.


    His faith was rewarded in full. Sunghyun safely reached the ground.


    Hah, hah, hah.


    Hyukjin and Junghwa fired arrow after arrow. They were busy and couldnt pay much attention to Sunghyun. He wasnt saddened by that and quickly retreated behind Sunhwa, who was standing strong at the front.


    She summoned herrge white shield.


    Oppa, your strongest magic.


    Got it.


    Sunghyun closed his eyes, drawing forth all his mana. The biggest spell he could currently use was Blue Whirlwind. It had the disadvantages of a very long cast time and high mana consumption, but if itnded, it would cause a great deal of destruction.


    He began to recite the magic incantation.<blockquote>


    [<em>Wedow Levica-ta</em>]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin fired Sylphids Wing as he waited for <em>it </em>to arrive. He knew what the descending monster with the huge mouth was.


    Hundred-Year Imoogi.


    Its level was in thete 40s, early 50s.


    To appear now, its probably a boss monster.


    If so, it would get a boss monster buff, making it stronger than a normal Hundred-Year Imoogi. Sure enough<blockquote>


    [The boss monster zone of the boss monster Hundred-Year Imoogi has been dered.]</blockquote>


    The Wind Temple changed to a boss monster raid zone. The Hundred-Year Imoogi took the form of an extremelyrge serpent, extending a good twenty meters in length.


    After reaching the ground, the Hundred-Year Imoogi coiled itself up, staring at the humans with its head held high. Trailing from its head were two very unsnake-like whiskers. As big as the beast was, its whiskers were also quite thick.


    First the Dewinged Angel Statues, now this?


    <em>Gwaaaar!</em>


    It opened its mouth in a booming cry.<blockquote>


    [The boss monster Hundred-Year Imoogi will begin attacking in 60 seconds.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin switched items while staring at the massive python, going from the bow to his transcendent sword.


    Nothing about this ce is easy.


    How had Hyun Junghwa cleared this ce?


    The difficulty rose dramatically because we destroyed the Dewinged Angel Statues.


    The difficulty was changed by an order of magnitude. If this was the difficulty greatly reduced by his True Ruler title, then just how impossibly hard was it originally?


    Hyukjin nced behind him.


    Sunghyun, cancel your spell.


    The wind magician stopped his incantation.


    Well handle this guy, so you go back up. Therell be a hint to the clear there.


    Were not killing the boss?


    We cant kill that thing. We have no way to prate its skin.


    Sunghyun didnt quibble for long. Ill trust you, Hyung.


    He ran towards the Central Pir without dy.


    Sunhwa, pull back.


    Why?


    Forty seconds left.


    You cant block that attack anyway.


    Even Sunhwa would be done for if she was constricted by the Hundred-Year Imoogi. Every bone in her body would be crushed into a pulp.


    Give up on blocking its attack. Instead


    He whispered something into Sunhwas ear, purposefully preventing the Guardians from hearing. Sunhwa responded to acknowledge the order.


    Hyukjin raised his voice again. Miss Junghwa, please support Sunghyun.


    It was possible there was something else at the top of the pir.


    Now.


    Thirty seconds left.


    Junghwa spoke quickly. How do you n on blocking an attack Miss Sunhwa cant block? If this is a monster we cant kill, shouldnt we start by looking for a way to escape somehow?


    Thats why I sent Sunghyun up.


    But its going to attack in twenty seconds now.


    I know.


    Youre going to deal with it on your own? Without the main tank?


    Are you worrying about me right now?


    I-Im not worrying about you! Im just saying what a party member should naturally say.


    Hyukjin smiled. Frankly, its easiest for me to do this alone.


    Even the impressive Hyun Junghwa and Kim Sunhwa were baggage right now. That was his cool-headed judgment. This situation was best suited for soloing. He was already familiar with the Hundred-Year Imoogi.


    If its just me, I can tie that snake up.


    Ten seconds left.


    But if we work together, someone will die.


    ...


    There can be no deaths in my party.


    Hyukjin took a deep breath.


    The Hundred-Year Imoogis pupils narrowed into vertical slits, brimming with bloodthirst. Eye of Perception picked up the pulsating murderous intent of such an electrifyingly powerful lifeform.


    Five seconds left.


    Hyukjin began to mumble something, showing Junghwa something new. Apletely new realm.


    Illusions and apparitions.


    The seconds counted down.


    The Will Incantation trailed from Hyukjins lips. As Junghwa listened to the words, she found goosebumps rising on her arms for some reason.


    Distortions and lies, cannot covet me.


    No matter what ravine of evil in this world I must traverse.


    Golden energy began to rise from Hyukjins body.

 Chapter 214

    Chapter 214


    Hundred-Year Imoogi.


    Hyukjin was very familiar with this monster. It was also detailed in ypedia.


    <em>The Hundred-Year Imoogi takes the form of a huge snake. ording to eyewitness reports, its closer to a python than a snake, but to the untrained eye, its just a massive snake. Small ones are twenty meters, while big ones can reach lengths of fifty meters.</em>


    But this monster wasnt simply an animal-type monster.


    <em>Though it looks like a snake, we ssify this monster as a spirit-type.</em>


    That was why Jo Sunghyun saw the hallucination of being swallowed alive. After freezing its prey in that manner, it slowly constricted the prey with its massive body, either crushing or suffocating its victim.


    Creatures hunt their prey using hallucinations, aka illusions.


    Their natural enemy was none other than Kim Hyukjin.


    Though theres a big level difference between us.


    But it wasnt an insurmountable level difference, ten at most. He also killed a Lycanthrope right after he awakened.


    As long as youre familiar with the strat


    And as long as you had the courage and skills to carry it out, and you could mitigate the level and stat gap with the help of a Will Incantation...


    You can get out alive.


    Hyukjin focused. He uttered the remaining words of the incantation, looking the Hundred-Year Imoogi straight in the eye. He felt strong bloodlust from those vertical slits, but he wasnt afraid.


    Such is the power of intuition.


    Hyukjin had the ability to smash through hallucinations and illusions hidden within bloodlust.


    The Eye of Insight that sees the true nature of things.


    Hyukjin recited thest words.<blockquote>


    [<em>May all lies.</em>]


    [<em>Be shattered.</em>]</blockquote>


    The illusion broke. Hyukjins vision shattered like a window, clearing. The Hundred-Year Imoogi staring at him with its head held high was a fake.


    The real body hase closer to me.


    The raid had already begun. The unmoving Hundred-Year Imoogi simply staring at him with eyes oozing bloodthirst was an illusion. The one that hade quite close was the real boss.


    Itse pretty close.


    It was already drawing near in order to hunt him. It wasnt moving all that fast.


    <em>Ssssss</em>


    The hiss of its scales sliding along the ground was chilling.


    <em>Whoosh!</em>


    The wind happened to blow just then.<blockquote>


    []</blockquote>


    He caught the monsters smell in the winda fishy, ozone odor that wafted from its skin.


    Hyukjin instantly whipped out Sylphids Wing, moving Isabel into his Inventory in one swift motion.


    It was the switching technique V was exceptional at; Hyukjin had learned it from him. He couldnt use Observer Eyes Action Replication, but he could still somewhat replicate what he saw. That was Hyukjins eye of observation.<blockquote>


    [Using the weapon effect Create Distance.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjins body instantly moved backwards, as if someone had yanked him from behind. It looked as if his body were getting sucked back like a ma.


    Junghwa was straining her eyes in order to catch every movement Hyukjin made, while still paying attention to the Central Pir Sunghyun had mbered up.


    He just used Create Distance.


    Junghwa didnt use it often. Create Distance was good for simply getting more distance away from your opponent, but it left you at a dead endusing it made you lose your bnce.


    But not for Kim Hyukjin. She saw that he was slightly lowering his body and putting strength in his legs.


    He hasnt lost bnce at all.


    He was ridiculously steady on his feet. The next moment, he disappeared.<blockquote>


    [Using the special skill sh Step.]</blockquote>


    He moved around with abination of Sylphids Wings effect and the special skill sh Step. Junghwa could see that Kim Hyukjin had no intent of directly attacking the Hundred-Year Imoogi.


    It feels like hes focusing purely on getting around.


    Why?


    No way.


    After some time passed, she thought she knew the reason. Hyukjin wasnt trying to hunt the boss right now. He was buying time.


    Hyukjins body moved rapidly. He deftly approached the Hundred-Year Imoogi, got onto its body, and ran up. After moving along the monsters body a few times, he even got onto its head.


    Hyukjin leapt high in the air, whipping out a dagger. He plunged it into the monsters neck.


    <em>ng!</em>


    A metallic sh rang out.


    Hyukjin already knew this dagger was incapable of prating the monsters skin. That wasnt his goal. Hyukjin dropped off the side. The Hundred-Year Imoogi had its head raised about ten meters off the ground.


    Sparks came off the spot Hyukjin had struck with his dagger. Hyukjin dragged his dagger along the Hundred-Year Imoogis neck as he fell to reduce the speed of his descent.


    <em>Crrrrrrrkkkk!</em>


    Sparks went flying.


    The Hundred-Year Imoogis tail swept just past him as if it had a life of its own. If he hadnt controlled his speed, he might have gotten grabbed by the tail. Junghwa gulped as she watched.


    No. He would have gotten grabbed for sure.


    Freedom of movement was absolutely imperative here. If Hyukjin had gotten caught, it would have been over.


    Hyukjin is moving quickly


    He weaved in and out, changing directions on a dime.


    ...while making the boss tie itself up.


    The Hundred-Year Imoogis body was extremely long. It was a huge string. That string was getting tangled, so stealthily that the boss itself didnt realize. And it was done via provocation.


    Hyukjin repeated the process of drawing near, then jumping back. It became a little easier.


    I can see its movements.


    It was game over if he was caught by the serpent. In other words, all he had to do was avoid getting caught. He was dancing on a knifes edge, but the Hundred-Year Imoogi was very slow. Hyukjin captured its every movement with Eye of Perception.


    And when things got a little dicey<blockquote>


    [Activating the power Future Sight.]</blockquote>


    He foresaw the future with Future Sight. Though the ability put a great burden on the body because of its high mana and mental power consumption, now wasnt the time to be picky. As a result, he was able to tie up the Hundred-Year Imoogi while slipping through its whip-like snare.


    * * *


    * * *


    Hyukjin took some distance.


    Sunhwa.


    Roger.


    Sunhwa took out what she had readied at Hyukjins whispered request.


    <em>Give up on blocking its attack. Instead, put the Grudge Inmyeonjos feathers in water. Youve got water, right?</em>


    Water was a crucial item for yers. Everyone kept plenty of water on them for raids. That was especially true for very physical sses like Sunhwas. The girl went as far as to keep a massive tub of water in her Inventory.


    Hyukjin brought out a Rusted Iron Sword instead of Isabel. He plunged the weapon in Sunhwas tub, which was filled to the brim with milky white water.<blockquote>


    [Using the special skill sh Step.]</blockquote>


    He closed in again, smearing the Rusted Iron Sword dripping with cloudy water on the knotted serpent.


    Hyun Junghwa couldnt figure out what Hyukjin intended.


    Whats he doing?


    Hyukjin repeated the process a few times. Some timeter, the Hundred-Year Imoogi tilted off bnce, falling onto its side with a thud. It looked like a knotted ball of yarn. Upon closer inspection, it was perfectly still.


    No wonder a Grudge Inmyeonjo showed up here.


    ...What?


    Junghwa could tell that even though Hyukjin was pretending to talk to her, he was actually talking to the Guardians.


    I see.


    A new world opened up to her.


    So this is how you do it.


    She got the feeling she had just gotten a valuable lesson. She decided to y along.


    If you dissolve its feathers in water, you can produce an extremely powerful adhesive.


    I see.


    Junghwa didnt ask how he knew that. After all, she wasnt the one he was talking to right now.


    With sufficient time, its tangled body will return to normal.


    So you glued it together in order to keep it from detangling?


    Junghwa thought back to earlier.


    <em>Theyre probably reacting with your sweat. Mm. Dont hold onto them for too long. I dont think thats good for you.</em>


    She was honestly curious. Did he know about the Grudge Inmyeonjos feathers from the start, or did he figure out this strategy based on the fact that it reacted with sweat?


    Junghwa came to her own conclusion.


    Dont hold onto them for too long. I dont think thats good for you is what he said.


    That must be when he figured it out. He instantly realized the feathers were an adhesive from the way they reacted to sweat.


    He realized it on the spot. From that one fact alone.


    Could this truly be called insight? Was that all it was? Junghwa felt goosebumps for a moment. She looked at this man named Kim Hyukjin anew, and her curiosity towards him grew.


    Thats right. But I imagine even this wont be enough. Its strength is unimaginable.


    Junghwa spurred the conversation along.


    Then what should we do?


    Cut off its power source.


    ...


    I think its strength ising from those whiskers. If we constrain them somehow, either by cutting off those whiskers or tying them up, itll get weaker.


    How do you know that?


    Hyukjin was honestly thankful. Junghwa wasnt a talkative person, but she was chipping in with the questions he needed. You could see this as Hyukjin using Junghwa. But despite knowing that, she was still cooperating nicely.


    Didnt you hear my incantation?


    Oh, so that amazing ability is called an incantation. Junghwa nodded a little. This was give and take. In exchange for ying along, Junghwa got to learn about incantations for the first time.


    I did. One part stuck out in her memory. Such is the power of intuition. The Eye of Insight that sees the true nature of things. I remember that part.


    Right.


    Then I suppose youre saying you figured it out by seeing it.


    Hyukjin nodded. This much acting was more than enough to achieve the picture the Guardians wanted. Their questions should be fully answered by now.


    So now.


    In consideration for his main sponsor, the Nameless Observer, he added one more line.


    Its the power of observation.


    With that, Hyukjin approached the Hundred-Year Imoogi again. He tried cutting off its whiskers, but even his transcendent sword was incapable of the feat. Hyukjin had no other choice but to tie the two whiskers together.


    Hyukjin remembered the Hundred-Year Imoogi strat word for word.


    <em>After preventing the Hundred-Year Imoogi from moving, tying up the whiskers will make hunting it extremely easy. Simply tying up the whiskers cuts off most of the Hundred-Year Imoogis abilities.</em>


    Junghwa said, Its aura has definitely weakened a lot. What should we do?


    Due to its super high defense, it wouldnt be easy to kill. Hyukjin recognized what Junghwa meant by the question.


    I dont think we can kill it.


    There was no way to kill it. The means of attack avable to them right now were incapable of dispatching this boss monster.


    Hyukjin grinned. But do you think the System truly made this monster to be killed?


    Its a boss monster.


    I dont think so. It wasnt spawned to be killed.


    Much of this field ovepped with the Hill of Blowing Wind they had cleared in the past. The field would not be cleared just by killing the boss monster. It wasnt a clear condition.


    Everything was happening too coincidentally and artificially here. The way Hyukjin saw it, there was definitely a hidden catch.


    I get the feeling that we would have failed to clear this ce if we had tried to kill this guy.


    It was true that they couldnt kill it, and a Grudge Inmyeonjo appearing here was no coincidence. Hyukjin was sure of it.


    Theres something more to this.


    Just then, Jo Sunghyun quickly descended, drenched in sweat.


    Ive brought the Offering Box.


    Just like before, there was an Offering Box here.

 Chapter 215

    Chapter 215


    Hyukjin remembered exactly how they cleared the Hill of Blowing Wind in the past. He didnt try to memorize it; it just happened.


    In the past, when the Offering Box appeared


    It asserted its influence and calmed the wind.<blockquote>


    [The Offering Box holy relic is beginning to assert its influence.]


    [The Offering Box holy relic calms the wind blowing in the Wind Temple.]</blockquote>


    It was exactly the same now. The schema was the same.


    Hyun Junghwa wasnt at the Hill of Blowing Wind then.


    She hadnt been one of the yers present there. Which meant, Hyun Junghwa couldnt have cleared the Wind Temple on her own.


    So that has to mean the angel statues we broke are the deciding factors after all.


    The content of the field had changed a great deal because of the Dewinged Angel Statues. One thing was for surethe itinerary might be the same, but the difficulty had been cranked way up.


    Which means the rewards will also be boosted.


    Hyukjin took the Offering Box Sunghyun brought.<blockquote>


    [Offering Box of the Wind Temple]


    A small box for collecting offerings. Those whoe to the Temple of Wind must show their sincerity to this Offering Box. When the Offering Box is full, the Blessing of the Wind Temple will be granted.</blockquote>


    Back then, the quest they received was Donate 100k Coins! With the increased difficulty, what kind of quest would this Offering Box give this time?<blockquote>


    [You have received the quest Offer a Living Sacrifice!]


    [Quest reward: Wind Temple clear, Complete Sylphids Wings]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin read what was left unsaid in the notice.


    The grade of the rewards has been boosted, Im sure of it.


    But the reward was still the Complete Sylphids Wings. And the clear was a given.


    Even though a Hundred-Year Imoogi boss monster that cant be caught without the strat appeared.


    But the reward amounted to just this? It actually made Hyukjin a little happier.


    That has to mean the Angel Statues Wings item I got is that important.


    That was the only way he could interpret this result. He didnt know how and where it would be useful, but it would definitelye into y.


    And I also got the Tome of the Divine Bow Physique.


    The rewards were by no means bad. He had gained a ton from this clear.


    Hyun Junghwa waited quietly for Hyukjin to speak. Normally, she was more of the type to take action rather than sit around, but she had no choice but to stay put right now. She couldnt interrupt Hyukjin, who was thinking hard about something.


    That was because she also saw the Offering Box and the quest it gave.<blockquote>


    [You have received the quest Offer a Living Sacrifice!]</blockquote>


    Junghwa wasnt stupid.


    If we had killed the Hundred-Year Imoogi


    Then in order to clear this ce, they would have had to sacrifice someone. Only by throwing someone into that Offering Boxs clutches would they be able to clear and leave this field. Did this really boil down to simply good luck?


    It wasnt just good luck.


    No, it was <em>made </em>to be good luck. By the person in front of her.


    Sunghwa beamed. Oppa, Ill pick that Imoogi as the sacrifice then.


    Yeah.


    Sunhwa put her hand on the Offering Box. It shed, and everyone heard notices.<blockquote>


    [The living sacrifice will be decided by a majority vote.]


    [Please designate the living sacrifice.]</blockquote>


    You could just look at your choice with your eyes. Every yer hereKim Hyukjin, Kim Sunhwa, Jo Sunghyun, and Hyun Junghwadesignated the Hundred-Year Imoogi as the target.<blockquote>


    [4 votes for the designated target. 1 vote against.]</blockquote>


    The vote against was, of course, from the Hundred-Year Imoogi.<blockquote>


    [The vote has exceeded the majority.]


    [The target has been decided.]</blockquote>


    The Hundred-Year Imoogi began to get sucked into the Offering Box. Almost like a ck hole, the enormous serpent was sucked little by little into the Offering Boxs depths.


    Sunhwa stared in fascination.


    Wow


    How was such a big snake going into such a small box?


    Amazing.


    She wasnt that scared, just fascinated. Hyukjin thought that was a good thing. It would definitely be problematic if a tofu brain like Sunhwa got squeamish about each and every little y. It was way better for her to just move on with nonchnt fascination.<blockquote>


    [The Offering Box has received its living sacrifice.]


    [The Blessing of the Wind Temple will be granted to the yers who havee here.]</blockquote>


    A warm, blue breeze blew in, nestling around the yers. After snaking a few times around their bodies, the wind faded.<blockquote>


    [The right to possess the Angel Statues Wings has been granted.]</blockquote>


    That instant, everyone realized that if they had gone out without the Blessing of the Wind Temple, this item would have been destroyed.


    Hyukjins mood lifted even more.


    The fact that its regted so thoroughly means its just that important.


    It was very good. It seemed he really had to contact Pietro after leaving the dungeon. They had shared contact details.<blockquote>


    [Your wind affinity has increased.]</blockquote>


    In the end, the Wind Temple was cleared. Hyukjins party left the field and returned to Marvin Cemetery.<blockquote>


    [Entering Marvin Cemetery.]</blockquote>


    Then, they were able to find the Clear Crystal without difficulty, clear the Marvin Cemetery, and leave the Gran Seoul Dungeon.


    * * *


    * * *


    After leaving the dungeon, Hyun Junghwa got into Hyukjins car with him.


    Where would you like to go? asked the chauffeur.


    To the office, please.


    The two of them went to Giantgods office for one reason, and that was to discuss the issue of how to distribute the Complete Sylphids Wings Hyukjin had acquired.


    Inside the elevator, Hyukjin thought to himself.


    Sylphids Wings is the bow Hyun Junghwa herself acknowledged as the item that made her who she is.


    That was how important it was to her. Even the current Junghwa was well aware of this items value.


    Im sure she also knows the MVP in the Wind Temple clear is me.


    It was natural. Even the System had acknowledged thatthe Complete Sylphids Wings was put in Hyukjins inventory as an individual reward.


    They entered the office and took seats on the sofa. Hyukjin spoke first.


    Ill get straight to the point.


    Yes.


    Junghwa also preferred skipping the formalities and going straight to the matter at hand. She was also feeling quite the urgency.


    The Complete Sylphids Wings was acknowledged by the System as my property.


    I know.


    Junghwa wasnt so brazen as to throw a tantrum demanding him to give it to her. But she also wasnt so clueless that she couldnt read Hyukjins inner thoughts.


    But the fact that you brought me here means you are inclined to concede that item to me.


    Thats right. I fully acknowledge your contribution in the raid, and believe the Complete Sylphids Wings will shine more radiantly in your hands than mine.


    ...


    If she was being honest, Junghwa wanted to refute that statement. Even with his sloppy form and breathing, Kim Hyukjin was an archer of the same or greater skill than her.


    His talent was in a ss of its own. Junghwa fully epted that.


    Youre wrong. I think itll shine more in your hands.


    But she didnt say that. She also wanted the Complete Sylphids Wings.


    For the Complete Sylphids Wings, two Sylphids Wing bows are necessary.


    ...


    So I would have no choice but to give you my Sylphids Wing.


    I willpensate you in full.


    This item was gifted to me with heartfelt feelings by my close friend in Italy, Pedro.


    They werent actually friends, but he decided that they were bosom buddies right now.


    ...Is he a very close friend?


    Yes. Enough that I put my life on the line to clear with him.


    It wasnt a lie. He really thought he would die in front of the Sacred me, Athenae. One misstep, and he would have burned into a crisp.


    Despite that, as you said before, I intend on conceding this bow to you because I think it would suit you very well.


    ...Thank you for saying that.


    Hyukjin continued.


    For now, its my opinion that each Sylphids Wing has a value of about $500k.


    ...


    The Italian Ranker Salvatore had gone dizzy at half that amount. That was because this was still the beginner period. $500k was far from a small sum. Even Hyun Junghwa thought it was excessive.


    But


    Junghwa thought she didnt have the right to say that right now. Hyukjin was making such a big concession, so she had to respond in kind. That was what trading was. It couldnt just be one side reaping profit and the other side losing out, so she decided to ept the hefty price tag.


    And the value of the Complete Sylphids Wings cant actually be measured at this point in time. In terms of money.


    ...


    Then just what did this man want? Junghwa looked into Hyukjins eyes in silence.


    I cant read his thoughts at all.


    She couldnt at all distinguish what was going through his mind, what his end-game was. She knew he was 20, but it was like he had a 100-year-old sage inside him.


    Just what kind of environment do you have to grow up in to be like that?


    Hyukjins next wordspletely shattered herposure.


    Ill give it to you. For free.


    ...What?


    Since its value cannot be measured in money.


    What do you mean?


    Exactly how it sounds. Ill just give it to you.


    Junghwa shook her head.


    That will not do.


    Words spilled out of her. Your contribution in the Wind Temple clear was monumental. Both the System and I acknowledge that. How could I take an item you earned fairly without giving anything in return?


    Junghwas expression was incredibly serious. I am deeply thankful for your offer and goodwill


    ...


    But saying those words is treating me as less than an equal, a fellow yer.


    Hyukjin made a small smile. Junghwa didnt know at all, but this was what Hyukjin had been aiming for.


    I knew shed say that.


    He knew she would say something along the lines of Youre insulting me right now. But with the situation the way it was, Junghwa had very much dulled the edge in her words.


    Hyukjin waited for a moment. It was about time for Hyun Junghwa to say the magic words.


    Please make it so I can pay an appropriate price.


    Bingo. How much you could sell the same object for was up to the sellers skill. Even better for the seller if they could manipte the buyer into thinking they were getting a good deal.


    Senia, who was watching in transparent mode, thought to herself, You werent thinking about giving it away for free anyway.


    Her wings were trembling without her knowing. Strangely, very strangely, she was <em>cheering</em> Kim Hyukjin on, a fact that shocked her when she realized it.


    Why am I getting happy about such a scammy trade?


    What was this?


    Why am I thinking of something good happening to yer Kim Hyukjin as something good happening to me?


    She thought about it and came to a conclusion.


    Its because yer Kim Hyukjin needs to y well for things to work out for me. Thats what it is.


    Hyukjin nodded.


    I see, my goodwill can be construed as an insult to you, Miss Junghwa. I apologize.


    No, it wasnt that severe. Thank you for understanding.


    Understanding? He did all this while rolling her in the palm of his hand. Hyukjin gave another easy smile.


    Then allow me to make a proposal first.


    This was what he had been aiming for in the first ce.<blockquote>


    [The Merchant of Venice is very happy.]


    [The Merchant of Venice has begun to watch you more closely.]</blockquote>


    There are two things I would like to ask from you. You can listen first and then decide whether you will proceed or not.


    He revealed the two conditions.


    First, I would like a total of $1 million.


    I ept.


    The answer came immediately. Hyun Junghwa was clearly driven by the determination to pay an appropriate price, no matter what. Earlier, she was feeling iffy about $500k, but now, even $1 million was chump change. With just a few words, her mentality had taken aplete 180.


    Second, I would like to buy your skill.


    What does that mean?


    He had run all this way for this moment. This was the real thing he wanted.


    I intend on clearing two dungeons in the near future. One is in the Singapore server, and the other is in the Korean server. I would like your help with them. However, I want all items and byproducts gained from those dungeons to belong to me.


    Hyun Junghwa took the bait very nicely.


    I ept.


    She, too, was pleased by the prospect. There was much she could gain and learn by ying with Kim Hyukjin.


    Would it be alright if I asked what the dungeons are called?

 Chapter 216

    Chapter 216


    Would it be alright if I asked what the dungeons are called?


    Hyukjin answered her like it wasnt a big deal.


    The one thatll appear in Singapore is the Gardens by the Beach Dungeon.


    Ah.


    Junghwa knew the ce. It was a widely beloved and famous tourist highlight of Singapore that held a shy lights and music show called the Supertree Show every night. She herself had visited it as a tourist.


    Junghwa didnt ask how he knew this information.


    And the other one?


    The Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon.


    In the vicinity, hm.


    Giantgods office was in the DMC, so the World Cup Stadium was just one subway stop away, less than ten minutes by car.


    Yes. Its the ce that got so worked up in 2002.


    TN: Korea went up to the semi-finals in the 2002 World Cup hosted jointly by Korea and Japan. Red Devils is the name for fans of the Korean national ser team.


    It would also be the dungeon that would spawn 2,002 Red Devils.


    Junghwa asked, Do you know when it will appear?


    I dont know the exact date, but I think itll happen soon.


    The archer nodded. Understood. The Gardens by the Beach Dungeon and the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon. I will make my cooperation in clearing those two ces with the Guildmaster my top priority.


    And all the products thate from them?


    I will concede them all.


    Excellent.


    The deal was settled. $1 million, plus two Hyun Junghwa vouchers.


    Nice.


    Very nice.


    Shes quietly epting this deal because she has no idea what that ce has in store.


    Hyukjin felt his mood soar. On his way home, he bought three fried chickens. There were three firm proponents of the 1 chicken per person motto at home: his older sister, his little sister, and Kim Darong.


    A scramble for drumsticks broke out when he got home.


    Just before Sunhwa could catch him, Darongi gulped down the drumstick, bone and all. It was truly amazing how he managed to swallow a drumstick bigger than his whole body in one fell swoop.


    <em>Crunch, munch.</em>


    Meanwhile, Hyukjins older sister Kim Ahyoung ate her chicken very quietly. Apparently, she was far removed from the war raging between Sunhwa and Darongieven the cheeky squirrel didnt dare go for her chicken.


    Hyukjin grinned.


    Guess Noona is rank 1.


    Come to think of it


    Rank 2 is Darongi.


    Which left


    Sunhwa is rank 3.


    Somehow, Sunhwa seemed to be the weakest one here. Outside, she was a genius tank, but inside, she was only rank 3. Of course, the one at the top of this household was Mom.


    Wheres Mom? asked Hyukjin.


    Ahyoung answered curtly, Went out to see friends.


    Again?


    Its everydaytely.


    Really?


    Ya.


    Their conversation ended with that. Ahyoung got up.


    Im full. She stared at Darongi and his rounded belly. Make sure you clean up well.


    [;;;] marks appeared over Darongis head. Ahyoung stared at the squirrel.


    Dont wanna?<blockquote>


    [;;]</blockquote>


    There was one less sweat emoji.


    I asked, <em>dont wanna</em>? she said again.<blockquote>


    [;]</blockquote>


    Another sweat emoji less.


    Its fine if you dont want to. Ill clean up.


    Kim Darongs [;] turned into a hasty [!]. He shook his head like a rattle, his expression saying, Ill do it!


    You will? Im heading in for the night then.


    Hyukjinughed, dumbfounded.


    What the heck?


    How was it that Noona could speak so freely with Darongi? She wasnt even a tamer. Hyukjin looked down at the pile of chicken in front of him.


    Again?


    There were three drumsticks. This always happened. Noona snuck them in. Of course, her stealthy actions couldnt escape Hyukjins observation, but he just pretended not to notice.


    Sunhwa tore into a wing while asking, So whatre we gonna do next, Oppa? You have, like, a ton to do.


    Im nning on participating in the auction first.


    Ah. That auction in the US?


    Yeah. The date was pulled forward a bit.


    Technically speaking, it wasnt that the date was changed, but that the chosen among the chosenthe VIPs among the VIPswere invited to participate in the auction first.


    Even I didnt know that was a thing.


    This was the world he had known nothing about, the world of Rankers. He was learning about these secrets one by one, like peeling an onion.


    What about that that handsome Italian guy who was gathering archers? You also said you have to do that Dewinged Angel Statue thing or whatever it was called.


    He also nned on participating in that.


    It should work out if I contact Pietro after getting back from the auction.


    It seemed Pietro was still recruiting archers for the gate. There was still time, so he decided to push contacting Pietro about the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate until after the auction, and it was possible Pietro would also take part in the auction.


    Yeah. Some people were invited toe participate earlier, and Taeguk Shield was one of them.


    Taeguk Shield? Why?


    Sunhwa tilted her head.<blockquote>


    State: Dubious / Curiosity / Doubt</blockquote>


    Even though theyre so weak?


    Theyre weak by our standards, but theyre not weak by the worlds standards.


    No way.


    Im serious. Theyre strong, too.


    Really?


    Sunhwas eyes widened in disbelief.


    Yeah. As unbelievable as it might sound to you, thats how it is.


    I see.


    <em>Its just because youre surrounded by such overwhelming world-level Rankers. </em>Hyukjin left that unsaid.


    When it came down to it, Taeguk Shield was the representative guild of Korea. With Wings victory over Lao Yu, Taeguk Shields status was boosted even further.


    Youre tagging along then, Oppa?


    Yeah.


    But I thought you said you would ask Mr. Kiyeol to do it.


    I was gonna do that, but I changed my mind.


    Why?


    I think Ill be able to get a lot of good items there.


    Youre going because of the items?


    Why do you ask?


    Theres no other reason, right?


    Hyukjin smirked and tousled Sunhwas hair.


    There is.


    What is it? Tell me, puh-lease?


    I want to meet a person named Michelle.


    Michelle? A woman?


    Yeah.


    Is she pretty?


    Hm. Probably? Ive never seen her in person, so I don''t know either.


    Im told pretty women are dangerous.


    Who says that?


    Sung-gu.


    Choi Sung-gu, this bbermouth. He sure was feeding a lot of pointless drivel to this child.


    But why?


    Hm, because I want to check the consequences?


    Whats that?


    You dont need to know. Its a thing.


    Hyukjin got up. Sunhwa muttered under her breath that she also wanted to know, but she didnt press for details.


    Then Ill work on clearing the Gwanghwamun Dungeon a bit more. I think I can hit 40 soon.


    With those words from Sunhwa, Hyukjin went into his room.


    The Herdsman of Las Vegas is originally a US Guardian.


    But that very Guardian was frequently in and out of the Korean server. That could only mean he had lost some amount of interest in his original favorite, Michelle.


    What consequences have my changes created?


    He was curious about that, and another thing.


    I also want to see the skills of the worlds Rankers with my own eyes.


    The Korean server was a little less skilled inparison to the past. Hyukjin acknowledged that. He had prevented too many disasters. Although the survival rate greatly increased, it came at the cost of dulling the Korean yerbase.


    Ive also slowed Vs growth.


    The Fight Kings Guardian was the White Hunter. But the White Hunter seemed to be making their home in the Korean server.


    Hes gotten weaker because of me.


    Then what about the other yers? How strong were the world Rankers who grew independently of Kim Hyukjins influence? What kind of butterfly effects had ensued?


    Should be fun.


    The auction was a chance to see the worlds Rankers in one ce. It was also a gathering ce for global millionaires. He decided to go join the fun.


    * * *


    * * *


    Los Angeles, USA.


    Hyukjin stood in front of a certain building. Tworge menpresumably guardswere standing at the door.


    Please show your invitation.


    Hyukjin looked at the two men in amusement.


    Theyre ordinary people.


    They werent yers.


    And they have a Trantion Marble?


    That was a valuable item. It did show up and get used often around Hyukjin, but in the world, it was indeed a rare item, and not something non-yers could freely get their hands on.


    Is it Michelles financial power?


    It varied by the list, but Michelle was within the top 10 or 20 of the most wealthy individuals in the US. She was using her financial prowess on even trivial things like this.


    I dont have an invitation. But my party will be arriving shortly.


    I waited a little.


    Hes here.


    Two men were walking from afar. One of them was very short.


    Guildmaster Song Kiyeol, and Song Jinchul?


    He saw the young brat Song Jinchul. Apparently, he had followed his brother here. Song Jinchul tantly drawled, Hyung, is <em>that</em> the bastard you said youre going into the auction with?


    His voice was loud enough for Hyukjin to hear every word. He didnt get mad. This was just a middle schooler blowing hot air. He decided to keep watching a little longer.


    Song Jinchul!


    Song Kiyeol apologized immediately, bending deep at the waist.


    I apologize. He turned out like this because hes ate child


    Its alright.


    Hyukjin really wasnt that offended. In fact, the little runt even looked cute.


    But I heard this kid originally said he didnt wanna be a yer.


    But he had already be a yer. Hyukjin remembered seeing in the news that Song Jinchul had taken his talent te exam veryte, at the same time as Hyukjin. Things had changed.


    That change was captured in full by Eye of Perception.<blockquote>


    [yer]


    Name: Song Jinchul


    Age: 14


    Level: 27</blockquote>


    He had already be a yer. What had influenced the kid?


    His level isnt high. But hes awakened an innate ability.<blockquote>


    Innate ability: Discernment</blockquote>


    But just then,Hyukjins Eye of Perception activated on its own and started to go haywire.


    Whats going on?


    The world distorted. A bout of dizziness struck him, and it felt like the distorted world was spinning around him. Everything was spinning except for one thing, Song Jinchul. Only Song Jinchul was not twisted, and only Song Jinchul remained in ce.


    What does this mean?


    The spinning started as soon as he read Song Jinchuls status.<blockquote>


    [A factor in a major variable.]</blockquote>


    There was no other exnation. That was the only interpretation Eye of Perception could produce, a vague interpretation even Hyukjin could not fully decipher.


    It looks like theres something about this little brat.


    It wasnt something he could figure out now. He heard Song Kiyeols voice.


    Guildmaster Kim?


    Ah. I apologize. I was thinking about something else for a moment.


    The world returned to normal like nothing had happened. Hyukjin nced at Song Jinchul. The kid had taken a step back and was lowering his right hand, his middle finger slightly cocked up.


    Hyukjin almostughed.


    I cant tell whether hes childish or just dumb.


    No matter how much Jinchul disliked Hyukjin, he should be aware that Hyukjin was his older brothers business partner. Was this why people said the teenage years were so scary?


    But just then, another person joined the fray.


    The hell is with this rude brat?


    It was a familiar voice, and very, very loud.


    Oi. You good at fighting?


    The speaker came striding over, then raised his bear paw hand and brought it down hard on Song Jinchuls head.


    <em>Bam!</em>


    A resounding thud rang out.


    Song Jinchul was unable to dodge.


    Agh!


    The kid doubled over. His older brother took a step forward.


    What do you mean by this?


    The little shit was giving my friend the middle finger. I oughta st the assholes head off his shoulders.


    V ditched the honorifics straightaway. He was the same as ever.


    Oi. Answer me. You good at fighting?


    He was of the opinion that there was no such thing as age or gender in ying. Monsters didnt stop to contemte whether you were young or old, a woman or a man. They just went straight to tearing you apart. It was Vs opinion that in front of such creatures, the only thing that mattered was strength.


    Yet another person appeared.


    I would like it if you refrained from causing a ruckus in front of my venue.


    The Gold Pyramid, Michelle.


    The legendary woman who, along with the Wargod Salvatore, was venerated as the peak of the sovereigns. The American top-ss Ranker previously sponsored enthusiastically by the Herdsman of Las Vegas had made her appearance.


    That moment


    He heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas proposes a bet.]</blockquote>

 Chapter 217

    Chapter 217


    Hyukjin and Michelle heard the same notice.<blockquote>


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas proposes a bet.]</blockquote>


    The two of them focused on the notice.


    Bet?


    What kind of bet?


    Hyukjin had a hunch he knew what kind of bet it was.


    Michelles a sovereign. Im also known as a sovereign. He must be trying to pit two sovereigns against each other.


    Meanwhile, Michelle was a little puzzled.


    That man is someone who became famous as a Korean archer in Italy.


    After receiving word from Taeguk Shields guildmaster Song Kiyeol that he would be participating with Kim Hyukjin, Michelle did some investigating of her own. But to her surprise, there wasnt much information floating around about Kim Hyukjin. She just knew he was an archer.


    My opponent is an archer.


    A sovereign and an archer. What would a bet between the two look like?<blockquote>


    [He proposes a battle between sovereigns, a War.]


    [The War will take ce in a field specially devised by the Herdsman of Las Vegas.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin was already very familiar with this War Field. Michelle had shown it to the world many times. Most people ten years in the future knew about this field.


    Theres a castle


    And a turret protecting the castle.


    You can summon your contracted Guardian Tower.


    Smashing all the turrets and destroying the castle would allow you to hunt the sovereign. That was the rule behind this field. Like PVP, a resurrection authority was active here.


    Youre a sovereign?


    Yes.


    Thats different from what I found regarding you.


    You must have thought I was an archer.


    ...


    Michelle didnt respond. She might have failed to uncover her opponents identity, but she was confident nevertheless.


    The Herdsman of Las Vegas is extremely fond of betting.


    Hyukjin knew that.


    I know.


    Id like you to ept the wager.


    Michelle seemed to be worried that Hyukjin might refuse the bet.


    Im d. This was a good chance to measure Michelles skill. Has she already contracted with the Guardian Tower Tintin by now?


    It wasntmon knowledge yet. But knowing Michelle, and knowing the world of Rankers Hyukjin was experiencing right now, it was possible she had already contracted her Guardian Tower.


    Hyukjin asked, Have you contracted a Guardian Tower?


    I dont think theres any reason for me to answer that.


    Youre right.


    Hyukjin grinned. That was because for a split second, Michelles summary changed.<blockquote>


    Summary:<ol><li>


    Master of Tintin Maintaining her Composure</li></ol></blockquote>


    He found out a little more about Michelle. This was why Eye of Perception was so good.<blockquote>


    [yer]


    Name: Michelle


    Age: 34


    Level: 38


    ss: Mercenary Sovereign


    Guardian: Herdsman of Las Vegas


    Innate ability: Inject Funds, Guardian Tower Summoning


    Summary:<ol><li>


    Master of Tintin Maintaining her Composure</li></ol><ul><li>


    The disposition/state/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li>


    Because Eye of Perceptions proficiency is not high enough, viewing more detailed information is impossible.</li></ul></blockquote>


    Michelle has contracted a Guardian Tower, and she doesnt know that Ive done the same.


    The fact that Hyukjin was the Guardian Tower Ahn Seohyes master wasnt widely known to begin with. The only people who knew were Guildmaster Song Kiyeol and the guild members of Giantgod.


    Thats why shes so full of confidence.


    Michelle nudged him again.


    The bets proposed by the Herdsman of Las Vegase with extremely sweet rewards.


    There were countless yers who were intoxicated by that sweetness and driven to ruin. But Hyukjin didnt say that, because he was confident that wouldnt happen to him.


    Hyukjin smiled.


    Then let me have a taste of that sweet reward.


    Notices rang in his ears.<blockquote>


    [You have epted the War.]


    [Teleporting to the War Field.]</blockquote>


    Michelle had experienced War several times already. Having engaged other sovereigns in America in battle to activate the War system, she was confident.


    Huh?


    But something was a little different this time.<blockquote>


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas acts in consideration of ------.]


    [The War Field will not be visible to outsiders.]</blockquote>


    There was a part she definitely heard, but wasnt able to make out.


    What is he acting in consideration of?


    She had no idea. It was also strange that the War Field wouldnt be open to public view.<blockquote>


    [The War has begun.]</blockquote>


    The two sides began on the northern and southern ends of the War Field. Normally in War, the yers led by the sovereign would destroy the opponents turrets and castle, then go on to execute the enemy sovereign.


    But this War did not involve many yers. Only two people, Kim Hyukjin and Michelle, entered it.


    Doesnt matter anyway.


    This new field was isted from the outside, and whatever happened here was shielded from the public view. And there were only two people participating. Besides these anomalies, it was no different from what she had gone through so far.<blockquote>


    [As per the number of participants, the number of turrets will be restricted to 1.]</blockquote>


    The number of turrets was cut down to one. It was because there werent many participants.<blockquote>


    [As per the number of participants, the durability of the castle walls will be reduced.]</blockquote>


    As she expected, the castle walls were weakened to the point that a lone yer could easily break them. Michelle uttered the activation phrase.


    Tintin. Summon.


    The location at which Guardian Towers were summoned was set to the center of the War Field. In order to reach the opponents castle, you had no choice but to cross the central area once. Which meant, Kim Hyukjin would <em>have</em> to get past her Tintin.


    A sovereign with a Guardian Tower and a sovereign without one is heaven and hell apart.


    At least here, in the War Field.


    She walked towards the center of the field. But her leisurely gait was soon disrupted by the iprehensible situation that unfolded before her.


    * * *


    * * *


    Hyukjin heard a voice.


    Where am I?


    Hyukjin answered inwardly. <em>Were in America. LA.</em>


    Whoaa. Its my first timeing to LA.


    After bing a Guardian Tower, Seohye was far more honest about her feelings. Because they were mentally connected, her excitement was ryed directly to Hyukjin.


    But whats that Guardian Tower?


    That moment, Hyukjin had the impression that Seohye was growling, kind of like a savage beasting face to face with another beast.


    Can I break it?


    Hyukjin nodded. <em>You can. But do you think itll be easy?</em>


    The Guardian Tower Seohyes soul went into was also called Tintin. The one Michelle had summoned was probably a Tintin as well. That meant the Guardian Towers themselves were about the same level.


    Of course. Youre talking to Ahn Seohye here.


    From her prideful tone, she seemed very confident.


    <em>Really?</em>


    Seohye continued speaking.


    <em>Nemesis Doom Barrier.</em>


    The barrier that had once squashed Fire Giants was deployed. It wasnt visible to Hyukjins eyes, but he could see what was happening through the Red Eye above Tintin.


    Seohyes surroundings turned red. The Irregrs countless red threads of predation wrapped around the opponents turret.


    The gunports opened on both Tintins, and they fired at one another.


    <em>Bo-bo-bo-boom!</em>


    Hyukjin heard explosions from afar. Despite the considerable distance, they were so loud they rocked his eardrums. Hyukjin smiled.


    <em>How is it?</em>


    Weak. Its attack wasnt strong enough to prate my barrier.


    <em>And yours?</em>


    It barely blocked the barrage from my gunports, but its taking continuous damage from my Nemesis Doom Barrier.


    Seohye seemedpletely at ease.


    On the other side, Michelle was baffled by the explosions going off far in the distance.


    Whats going on?


    Unlike Hyukjins leisurely steps, Michelles feet quickened.


    Hes got a Guardian Tower, too?


    She was suddenly reminded that Korea also had a Guardian Tower, and it was a Tintin. The interesting thing about it was that it apparently had a red marble-like thing floating above it.


    No way. Hes the master of that Guardian Tower?


    Her opponent was a man significant enough to get the guildmaster of Taeguk Shield to seek permission for his participation in the auction.


    So thats how it is.


    If he was truly the Korean Tintins master, he was indeed worthy of such regard.


    That really surprised me.


    But she decided not to let herself be shaken anymore.<blockquote>


    [Using the innate ability Inject Funds.]</blockquote>


    Inject Funds. It was her ability to use money in order to invoke Guardian Tower-rted authorities.<blockquote>


    [Use Inject Funds to enhance the Guardian Tower?]


    [$10,000 used.]</blockquote>


    Ten thousand dors. Michelle spent the sum like it was nothing.


    Hyukjin also noticed the change from his mental connection with Seohye.


    She enhanced it.


    As he knew she would. Michelles Tower Enhancement was famous in the past, too. The enhancement was within the calcted range. Hyukjins gait was as leisurely as ever.


    Michelle rxed a little.


    There werent many chances for Koreas Guardian Tower to grow.


    That was why it wasnt very famous. She did hear three dangerous monsters had appeared around it, but monsters of that level could be found all over the States, or so Michelle thought.


    But our Guardian Tower is different.


    Michelle used her innate ability Guardian Tower Summoning to summon her Tintin in ces with monsters. She treated Tintin like a summoned creature, and as such, her Guardian Tower became stronger and stronger. She was also able to strengthen it using her money.


    Ours is a growth-type.


    Was the other sides tower also capable of growth? Even if it was, it hadnt had the opportunity to grow.


    Hyukjin asked again, <em>How is it?</em>


    Its be a little stronger, but its still a weakling.


    He didnt ask anymore. Tintin with Seohyes soul in it was fundamentally different from a regr Tintin. Ahn Seohye was an Irregr. In addition, the tower had absorbed the Red Eyes the Shepherd Boy had sought so desperately. Its prowess was iparable to a regr Tintin.


    Im doing good, right?


    <em>Yeah. Youre strong.</em>


    Hyukjin could see it clearly with his own eyes. The opponents bullet attacks werepletely unable to prate Seohyes barrier of red threads. On the other hand, Seohyes bullets were putting crack after crack in the opposing Tintin.


    In the end, Michelle reached the center of the field before Hyukjin. Her footsteps had quickened.


    How can this be?


    She hastily used her innate ability.<blockquote>


    [Using the innate ability Inject Funds.]</blockquote>


    The target was her Guardian Tower.<blockquote>


    [Using Inject Funds tomence Guardian Tower Restoration.]


    [The Guardian Tower Restoration fee will be charged depending on the level of damage to be restored.]</blockquote>


    The cracked Guardian Tower began to steadily heal.<blockquote>


    [$13,000 used.]</blockquote>


    Michelle couldnt believe what was happening. Before she could get her bearings, Kim Hyukjin arrived. The two came head to head at the central field.


    What do you think about my Guardian Tower?


    You were the master of the Korean Guardian Tower?


    Yes. Some way or another, it turned out like that.


    Why is thatpletely unknown to the world?


    Because theres nothing all that special about being a Guardian Towers master?


    ...


    Michelle chewed her lip a little. Nothing special about being a Guardian Towers master? Shed never heard something more ridiculous in her life. Being a Guardian Towers master was a special thing. But she quickly smoothed out her expression.


    She kept her voice soft, like she was talking to a friend. Can I ask you one thing?


    The fight between the Guardian Towers was taking a short pause. Hyukjin nodded.


    Yes, ask away.


    His expression was utterly rxed. It was true that he was feeling rxed, but he exaggerated it. While they talked, even more Guardians would enter the channel, which would cause Americas gship Guardians to turn their attention to him a little more. His every move was calcted to achieve that end.


    That Guardian Tower is also a Tintin, correct?


    Yes, thats right.


    What is that red marble at the top?


    I dont know, either.


    Lies!


    The word almost sprang from Michelles lips, but she didnt show it. How could a Guardian Tower Master not know about their own Guardian Tower? That was a lie. However, she didnt press the issue.


    Then am I correct in assuming your Guardian Tower experienced great growth because of that red marble?


    Most likely, yes. I think so.


    It was something even the Shepherd Boy was antsy to get his hands on. It probably had a big influence on Tintins strength.


    In that case, would you sell that red marble to me?


    That moment, the two of them heard a series of notices.<blockquote>


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas takes notice of the proposal.]


    [The Merchant of Venice watches the situation with interest.]</blockquote>


    The two Guardians were paying close attention.<blockquote>


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas deres a temporary ceasefire.]


    [The War Field has been changed to the Ceasefire Field.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin smiled to himself.


    The Herdsman of Las Vegas seems rather excited, doesnt he?


    Not only that, but the Merchant of Venice was heated up as well. A sudden trade? And with the Red Eyes on the line?


    I wont sell it anyway.


    The two Guardians would likely get directly involved to make the Red Eyes seble. However, Hyukjin had zero intent to sell it.


    Well, lets just listen to her opening bid.


    The two Guardians were worked up. He would twist this situation as much as possible in his favor, just as he had done all this time.


    How much?


    Michelle answered, $30,000,000.


    The Gold Pyramid offered 30 million USD.

 Chapter 218

    Chapter 218


    Hyukjin was slightly surprised.


    $30 million from the get go?


    The rich truly lived in a different world. She could probably go much higher than that, too.


    Thats quite arge sum, but you dont look all that surprised.


    Honestly, he was surprised; he just hadnt shown it. After months of putting on a poker face for the Guardians, he had grown ustomed to wearing a mask without even realizing it.


    Hyukjin grinned.


    I <em>am </em>surprised.


    But your expression tells mepletely otherwise.


    But what to do? I dont really want to sell it.


    At the same time, he felt Seohye breathe a sigh of relief.


    Im d.


    She hadnt said anything, but apparently, she had been sitting on the edge of her metaphorical seat. Hyukjin ryed his thoughts to her.


    <em>Dont be silly. The Red Eyes and you are basically one and the same right now. How could I sell you?</em>


    He didnt intend on selling. He was just setting up the stage for another act right now. Seohyes bashfulugh rang in his mind.


    Hehe.


    If Seohye had possessed a real body, how would Seohye have reacted to this situation? Seohye the Guardian Tower had a slightly different personality from the original Seohye. The real Seohye was unable to trust adults and was repulsed by men. She tried to keep her distance from adults while hiding her expressions and feelings as much as possible.


    Because shes connected to me shell have felt some degree of my sincerity.


    That was probably why she could be so rxed now.


    Michelle narrowed her eyes.


    Youre bolder than you look.


    I suppose so.


    $31,000,000.


    The bid went up by a million in an instant. With just two minutes of conversation, he had earned another million. That was $500k per minute. Hyukjin shook his head.


    $32,000,000.


    Another million in just five seconds.


    Im not selling.


    $33,000,000.


    Another five seconds, another million. That made $2 million in just 10 seconds, or $200,000 per second. Michelle breathed a light sigh.


    I cant tell whether youre bold, you have no greed, or youre just foolish.


    Its probably not thetter.


    The Herdsman of Las Vegas and the Merchant of Venice were focusing with mes in their eyes. What was important was who had the initiative over the conversation, and what plot twist he could spring to upend the Guardians expectations and make the scene more enjoyable to watch.


    Youre offering a tremendous amount of money, of course.


    In Hyukjins previous life, that was a sum he couldnt even imagine, much less ever see. Forget $30,000,000, he didnt even have $3,000. The number belonged to the realm of fantasy.


    But money isnt that valuable to me.


    It was actually extremely valuable, but he concealed his true feelings.


    It seems you want something other than money.


    ...


    Though he wouldnt sell anyway. He kept that to himself and said, What I want isnt money, but shares of the newpany youre making.


    ...What?


    Michelle was honestly a little shocked. There werent many people who knew about her newpany. She was currently working hard to establish her global mercenarypany, an enterprise that was drawing investments from major corporations around the world. Only the leaders of global corporations knew about it.


    Could it be that CEO Song Kiyoung of Sungshin? Michelle inwardly shook her head. No.


    CEO Song wasnt the kind of person to go around thering such confidential information.


    Then how?


    She stared at Hyukjin.


    Those arent the eyes of a 20-year-old.


    From what she found out, he was twenty years old. An archer. A not famous yer.


    Every piece of info I have on him is wrong. No, he <em>is </em>twenty years old.


    As long as he was a registered citizen, he couldnt fake his age. But the man she was looking at right now was far from a 20-year-old youngster.


    Hes also not an archer.


    That he wasnt famous did seem to be true, but seeing as Taeguk Shields guildmaster lowered himself to request Kim Hyukjins participation, she was sure there was something more to that unassuming front.


    Michelle looked him directly in the eyes, smiling faintly.


    The reason why he said this


    There was only one reason.


    ...is to show his information superiority.


    She saw this trade as his way of trying to unbnce her.


    After some silence, Michelle spoke again.


    Very well. I admit my loss in this round. I wont ask how you knew about thepany Im establishing. Ill find that out on my own.


    Sure. Kim Hyukjin added for good measure, Whether you put a tail on me, or investigate everything Ive ever done, do as you please. I wont take issue with it.


    His attitude was perfectly s. It was only naturalno matter how much she sifted and searched, she would find no clues. The reason why Hyukjin knew something like this wasnt because he had defeated her in a battle of intel, but solely because he was a regressor.


    Michelles lips quirked up.


    Youre full of confidence, I see.


    She had the impression she had met a powerful foe. Never in her wildest dreams had she imagined a 20-year-old Asian man would make her feel this way. She thought the only outstanding individual in Korea was CEO Song.


    Okay. How much stock do you want?


    About 20%.


    Michelleughed out of shock. 20%? Do you know what that would mean?


    It would make me one of the major shareholders. Probably second after you.


    Thepany hadnt even been established yet. It hadnt gone on the stock market. But their conversation already assumed thepany would sessfully get listed.


    Youre making the proposal while knowing that?


    You can simply refuse if you dont like the terms.


    ...


    Why arent you refusing?


    Michelle didnt lose her cool, at least on the outside.


    I am weighing the reasons to ept and the reasons to not ept.


    You dont need to think so hard.


    What do you mean?


    I wont sell the Red Eyes.


    ...What? Michelles brows furrowed. What did you mean by the conversation thus far, then? Can I take this as you looking down on me and ying a joke on me?


    Michelles face darkened. Up until now, her expression had held admiration towards Kim Hyukjin, but now, it held traces of rage.


    Hyukjin shook his head. I didnt y a joke on you.


    Anyone could see that this situation is very much a joke.


    I said I wouldnt sell the Red Eyes, not that I wouldnt trade with you.


    Hyukjin took out an item from his Inventory. It was the Iron Lions Harmonica, which Michelle had bought in his past life for $27 million. That meant Michelle had deemed it worthy of such a sum.


    I would like to trade this.


    ...


    He had used the Red Eyes as bait to preemptively bring the terms he wanted to the table. This was his endgame. If he had begun the trade with the Iron Lions Harmonica, he wouldnt have been able to suggest the shares in herpany. Because if he had to guess, Michelle would consider the Iron Lions Harmonica as having a value of $27 million.


    But theres no way Ill sell the Red Eyes.


    From the very moment he decided that, he had the upper hand. The initiative had been his from the start.


    I acknowledge that its value is likely lower than the Red Eyes. That is why I also intend on conceding victory in this War to you.


    Also, the Merchant of Venice and Herdsman of Las Vegas were watching. Whether she liked it or not, this negotiation had to end with a good trade or bet. Michelle probably felt that pressure more keenly than him.


    Hyukjin tossed some bait with the Herdsman of Las Vegas in his crosshairs.


    You will win this Wars bet. Because the bet itself was the War.


    A fight between sovereigns. This War was something Michelle absolutely had to win. And this trade was just one part of this War.


    I will also lower the shares from 20% to 10%.


    The 10% shares were his objective to begin with. Michelles ck Soldiers would reign as the strongest mercenarypany in the world.


    Theres no reason you would lower the percentage out of consideration for me. What else do you want?


    In exchange for lowering the shares to 10%, I would like cash.


    How much?


    She was convinced. Michelles pockets were ripe for the picking. Her sights were set firmly on the Iron Lions Harmonica.


    $10 million. Hyukjin smiled. This is a trade we can both be satisfied with, dont you think?


    He was sure of it.


    She has no choice but to ept.


    The moment she refused, she would have toe up with another solution or alternative. But if she went with an alternative, she would obtain neither the Red Eyes nor the Iron Lions Harmonica and leave with nothing. And yet, she had toplete <em>some </em>kind of trade. On top of that, she could take home the win. She couldnt get the Red Eyes, but as long as she gave up on that, she could secure quite a few benefits.


    Michelle felt like she had been one-upped.


    Hes not joking.


    He had yed while nning several moves ahead of her and even keeping the Guardians in mind.


    Its my defeat.


    There were no two ways around it. This was her defeat.


    Very well. I ept the trade. I think it will be satisfactory to us both.


    To be honest, she wasntpletely satisfied. But she had to pretend she was. Only then could she avoid looking like the loser in the Guardians eyes. She felt a little bitter, but she had to think about the big picture.


    So that just leaves destroying your turret and killing you.


    They both unsummoned their Guardian Towers.


    Well, thats one way, but Hyukjin rapidly waved the white g. I can also acknowledge my defeat and surrender.<blockquote>


    [The opponent has dered defeat/surrender.]


    [yer Kim Hyukjin has lost.]</blockquote>


    Michelle blurted out, W-Wait a moment.


    She had wanted to kill him once, jeez! But Kim Hyukjin was faster. Hepletely acknowledged defeat.


    Michelle heard more notices.<blockquote>


    [You have won the War.]</blockquote>


    She won, but it really didnt feel like it.<blockquote>


    [Leaving the War Field.]</blockquote>


    * * *


    * * *


    The field changed again, and the two of them found themselves where they originally were, the 1st floor of the auction hall. A ring of people was waiting. Everyone there heard the same notice.<blockquote>


    [The victorious sovereign is Michelle.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin looked over his surroundings with Eye of Perception. Locking down the area was a ring of people wearing ck suits. He could guess who they were.


    Michelles subordinates.


    He also saw Guildmaster Song and the spoiled brat Song Jinchul.


    If something unsavory were to happen


    The air wasced with tension, as if these people in suits were ready to shoot. But Hyukjin didnt cower. He didnt know if they were really the future Michelle Division, but Michelle was a very respected sovereign who garnered quite the loyalty from her subordinates. Most of these people either admired or adored her.


    Knowing that, he broke the terse silence with light apuse.


    As expected, Americas sovereign is world ss. Its my total defeat.


    ...<blockquote>


    [The Whispering Devil is extremely delighted.]</blockquote>


    The Whispering Devil was tickled pink for the first time in a while.<blockquote>


    [The Whispering Devil gifts you a Trickery.]</blockquote>


    On the other side, Michelle was bewildered. Caught off guard by Kim Hyukjins unexpected words, she could only manage an awkward smile. The situation itself was a little baffling, but her subordinates began to apud as well. Hyukjin held out his hand.


    It was a good experience. Thank you for teaching me so much.


    Michelle took his hand in a daze. The atmosphere in the room made her feel like she had no choice but to ept his handshake.


    Yes. It was also a good experience for me. The train had already left the station, so Michelle turned the situation to her advantage. You arent that famous in Korea, but I never thought you would have such skill. I was truly surprised. I learned a great deal as well. To be honest, I was amazed.


    From what Michelle could see, Kim Hyukjin was staying in the shadows for some reason. She had no doubt that he wasying low in preparation for something big.


    And the reporters are here. Perfect.


    She wanted to ster his face over the front pages. If he was dragged to the forefront, he would be a little easier to figure out, so she openlyplimented him.


    But


    Something was a little off. She was definitely looking at Kim Hyukjin, but she had the weird feeling she couldnt see him properly.


    What Michelle was experiencing was Hyukjins Cognitive Dissonance.

 Chapter 219

    Chapter 219


    Michelle was a little doubtful.


    Weirdly enough, it didnt make the headlines.


    Everyone who had Warred with her had gotten pretty famous. That was the case for Chicagos Renton, as well as Californias Haze. They couldnt quite jump to stardom in an instant, but they were still put on the public radar, at least in the US.


    <em>You arent that famous in Korea, but I never thought you would have such skill. I was truly surprised. I learned a great deal as well. To be honest, I was amazed.</em>


    She had praised him that highly, but he hadnt made the front page. The reporters were there and heard her every word, yet the incident ended all too quietly. Something was off.


    What was it?


    There were articles on the topic, yes, but they were strangely unnoticeable. Shebed through them again, and then, she realized.


    If you look at the articles, you cant see his face clearly.


    Michelle stiffened.


    It feelspletely normal.


    This was truly strange. How was this happening? Michelle called her deputy, Thomas. He was an old friendthey had been friends since childhood, and now, he was Michelles most trusted teammate.


    Thomas came into her hotel room.


    Whyd you call me sote at night? Does being the guildmaster give you the right to call me in whenever you please?


    Do you remember the man I had a War with yesterday?


    I do, yeah. Why? Howe youre thinking about a man, for once?


    Look at the articles.


    The two of them peered at the small screen of Michelles phone.


    Dont you think somethings weird?


    What is?


    Howe you dont feel like hes amazing at all?


    Only then did it dawn on Thomas.


    Hold up, youre right. He also thought it was strange. Howe theres no interest in him when our Guildmaster acknowledged him as amazing?


    Its weird, right?


    Super weird. I didnt notice anything at all until you pointed it out.


    I wasnt the only one who felt that way, huh. Michelle plopped onto the sofa. Could this have something to do with why hes not a famous yer in Korea?


    You think this is that mans special ability?


    Thats the only exnation.


    The Kim Hyukjin Michelle had seen with her own eyes and the Kim Hyukjin she saw through the media were all too different.


    Guildmaster Song Kiyeol was lowering himself to seek permission for Kim Hyukjins participation.


    Right.


    Dont you think we can suss something out if we ask Guildmaster Song? I think he knows something.


    Good idea. Thomas nodded. It felt like something fun had cropped up. Ill go to Guildmaster Song at the break of dawn and ask him then.


    Will you do that?


    Im your deputy, after all.


    Good, thank you.


    Michelle felt a little better. Thomas would handle it. She didnt bother saying, Dont be too pushy. Nothing good wille of bing enemies with Taeguk Shield. Just ask respectfully.


    Michelle watched as Thomas left the room. The back of her good friend and fantastic deputy looked as reliable as ever.


    * * *


    * * *


    At the same time, Kim Hyukjin walked down the hallway.


    The citys pretty at night.


    LAs nightscape was no less beautiful than Seouls. The city he saw from 60 stories high was like a starry world made of electricity.


    Room number 6001, was it?


    Floors 30 to 60 of the LA Auction House were all hotel rooms, and Kim Hyukjin and Song Kiyeols rooms were both on the 60th floor. Hyukjin stopped in front of room 6001.


    He entered Song Kiyeols room. Inside was also Song Jincheol.


    Elder Brother is taking a shower.


    Song Jincheols expression was dripping with objection. It was clear the youngest grandchild of Sungshin did not acknowledge Kim Hyukjin in the least.


    The teenager energy is strong.


    Hyukjin didnt even cast Jincheol a nce. He wasnt angered by the kids disrespectful attitude, but that didnt mean he was going to entertain it.


    Like I said, hes taking a shower.


    ...


    Hyukjin didnt respond. He simply sat on the sofa and waited with his arms crossed.


    Hey. Are you deaf? Cant hear what Im saying?


    Dont cross the line. Hyukjin wasnt mad, but he was annoyed. Im not tolerating you because Im doting on you, but because I cant be bothered to deal with you.


    ...


    Im not as weak as your brother. If you dont wanna get your ass kicked, shut up and watch TV.


    Song Jincheol quivered from head to toe. He wanted to fight back, but he couldnt. If he said anything, he would surely be beaten up.


    He was furious.


    This piece of shit


    He was hopping mad. He, a 3rd generation chaebol, had never suffered such treatment. At home, he was the most doted on youngest child. He had never even imagined being treated this way.


    Song Kiyeol finished showering and heard the conversation as he came out.


    <em>Im not as weak as your brother. If you dont wanna get your ass kicked, shut up and just watch TV.</em>


    Song Kiyeol pretended he hadnt heard. He was well aware that Kim Hyukjin was being very tolerant. It might look like Kim Hyukjin was verbally abusing his little brother, but Kiyeol was actually grateful to him.


    He nced at the cowed Jinchul.


    I need to punish him for real.


    Even their grandfather was courteous when talking to Kim Hyukjin. Of course Jinchul had to do the same.


    I apologize. I did try to hurry, but I still kept you waiting.


    No, its my fault for springing a visit on you without advance notice.


    <em>Thats right. Its your fault! </em>Jinchul wanted to say, but he kept his mouth shut. Reason #1 was that he was scared of Kim Hyukjin, and reason #2 was that he didnt think his own brother would take his side. Biting his lip, Jinchul took his phone and flopped onto the bed with a huff.


    Song Kiyeol said quietly, I apologize. I will be sure to educate my little brother.


    Its fine, just let him be.


    ...What?


    Hyukjin hadnt forgotten.


    <em>A factor in a major variable.</em>


    That was what he had felt when he looked at the spoiled brat. He didnt know what exactly it was, but it was probably best to let Song Jinchul stay as he was now rather than to try and change him.


    Thats just how kids are at that age, I guess.


    ...Thank you for your understanding.


    Hyukjin went to the real matter at hand. Michelle will send someone to you.


    Michelle will? Who?


    Most likely an aide of hers. Like Thomas, for example.


    ...Ah.


    Song Kiyeol thought, Does he know this because hes closely linked to Italys information merchant, Pietro?


    Kim Hyukjin always knew the intel before he did. He was a master of using his advance knowledge to engage in 4D chess. That was how Kiyeol saw him.


    Theyll probably ask about me.


    I see. How should I respond?


    Just tell them Im an ordinary sovereign in Korea. And that Im part of your retinue.


    ...What? Are you telling me to lie?


    Though technically, it wasnt a lie. Realizing that made Song Kiyeol himself feel confused. It was certainly true that Kim Hyukjin wasnt a Ranker.


    Whether thats true or not is an issue for Michelle to decide. Though she probably wont believe you. In any case, thats all the public needs to know.


    I take it that you dont want to give her any information. At least not for free.


    Yes.


    Kiyeol picked up on Hyukjins intent. If she wants information, its likely shelle with a carrot, right?


    As expected of Kim Hyukjin. He wouldnt give the info for free. The man could sell sand like hotcakes in the desert.


    Yes. And if she offers a sweet enough carrot, you can give her slightly more detailed information about me.


    By more detailed information, what do you mean?


    Like the fact I have an ability called Cognitive Dissonance, and that Im the guildmaster of a guild allied with Taeguk Shield.


    Song Kiyeol asked cautiously, What is Cognitive Dissonance?


    Hyukjin gave a concise exnation of the skill. Song Kiyeol nodded. To think Kim Hyukjin had such a skill He really was full of surprises.


    iming Giantgod is an allied guild of ours is one thing, but do you really intend on revealing that you have the Cognitive Dissonance ability?


    Even he, the guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, had never heard of it until today. That wasnt a strange thing. Rankers didnt go around exposing their weapons. yers concealed their skills. That was an established fact.


    Shell know even if I dont tell her. Dont tell her the name, just exin the ability a little. I will tell her the name myself when the time is right.


    Understood.


    In exchange for telling her about Cognitive Dissonance, ask for a list of the auction items.


    Will she really give us the list? She has been keeping it under lock and key.


    That was the kind of woman Michelle was. She could gather the worlds top Rankers without even disclosing what kind of items would be auctioned. Only a few objects had been revealed. No one knew exactly what would be offered, yet yers were still flocking over to participate, a reflection of Michelles influence. This was an auction hosted by one of the 20 wealthiest people in America, the sovereign Michelle.


    If she wants information about me, then its only right for her to give information of her own. Shell give you the list if she really wants the info. If not, then it cant be helped.


    The next day, Song Kiyeol felt cold sweat run down his back. Like Hyukjin said, Michelles deputy, a man named Thomas, came looking for him the very next day. The result of his negotiation with the deputy was:


    ...The list must be kept confidential at all costs. This list has not been leaked even once.


    Of course.


    But are you alright, Mr. Song? You look pale. Is something bothering you?


    No, its just that my stomach hurts a little.


    His conversation with Thomas went exactly as Kim Hyukjin said. Thomas left the room, leaving Kiyeol with the auction list in his hands.


    Once again it turned out like Guildmaster Kim Hyukjin intended.


    Suddenly remembering something, Kiyeol took out two yellow slips of paper from his Inventory. They were precognitive notes given to him by the Precognitive Dreamer, Ham Sohyun.


    <em>In the world of stars, the true prophet shall find you.</em>


    <em>Water with water, fire with fire, gold with gold.</em>


    He stared piercingly at the two notes.


    The true prophet.


    Somehow


    I have a feeling its Guildmaster Kim Hyukjin.


    Water with water, fire with fire, gold with gold.


    Information with information.


    It did seem to be referring to Kim Hyukjin. Just then, the letters on the notes began to fade, disappearing on their own. New letters appeared to rece them, and the notes suddenly multiplied. Dozens of yellow notes floated into the air.


    <em>The true prophet shall be bound.</em>


    <em>In his bindings, shall he lose all strength.</em>


    <em>The ignorant masses shall be tricked by the devils voice.</em>


    One of the notesnded in Kiyeols palm.


    <em>The Sovereign of Incantations will head skyward.</em>


    <em>Fwoosh!</em>


    The notes burned up and disappeared.


    * * *


    <em>Three hours before the start of the auction.</em>


    Well done, Kim Darong.


    The squirrels name was originally Darongi, but as ofte, Kim Darong sprang more naturally to Hyukjins mouth. It looked like Darongi also liked the new name, too.


    Darongi seemed pleased by the praise.<blockquote>


    []</blockquote>


    He took out the auction list from his Inventory and gave it to Hyukjin. This little squirrel was the safest and stealthiest means of transport around. Even Hyukjin couldnt see through Darongis Stealth if the squirrel was being serious. Thanks to that, Hyukjin was able to get his hands on the auction list secretly and safely.


    Mm.


    There were many items on the list.


    This has a [?] for the description, but its actually trash.


    The items with [?] would most likely go for huge prices. In addition to the yers, there were also tycoons literally rotting in money participating in this auction.


    [?] was meaningful on its own, at least to those wealthy people. Such items had value as collectibles.


    Same with this one.


    The ck Puma Helm. Later, it too would be reduced to a trash item. It wasnt worth buying for big bucks here.


    This one shows up in the intermediate period Item Shop.


    He thumbed through the list.


    Is it because this is the beginner period?


    There werent as many good items as he had hoped. There would probably be a lot of Rankers and wealthy people who would gamble on the [?] items, but they woulde to regret that decision.


    This ones a good buy.


    It would reach a price of $3 millionter and would probably go for $1 million or so here.


    Ill also buy this.


    He picked out a few items. He wouldnt be paying anyway. He had a loaded business partner by his side. His business partner would handle the trading, and he would get amission in return.


    Although, thatmission would be hundreds of thousands of dors.


    As Hyukjin cheerfully went through the list, he discovered something.


    Ah.


    A [?] mark appeared over Darongis head. He was perched on Hyukjins shoulder, looking at the list together. It was an item with a note under it, and it came in the form of a fountain pen.


    The note was very meaningful.


    Only the destroyer of the Gray Ring can activate the item description.


    Three hourster, the auction began.

 Chapter 220

    Chapter 220


    One hour before the auction, Song Jinchul waspletely baffled by his brother.


    Just why in the world are you sticking up for Kim Hyukjin so much?


    When talking to his brother, Jinchul sometimes used informal speech, sometimes formal speech. He flip-flopped between the two depending on his mood. Today, he was speaking casually, which meant he wasnt in a good mood. He had been in a prickly one ever since he was struck on the head by V and was unable to vent his rage.


    Kiyeol stared at his baby brother. A little brother wasnt strictly required to speak formally to his older brother and it wasnt even weird for brothers to speak casually to one another, but Kiyeol was a little angered by it today.


    Youre still not shaping up even after getting punished so much?


    Because I cant ept the reason why I was punished!


    Jinchul didnt think he could ept it in the future, either. Just how amazing could a yer possibly be? Who was Kim Hyukjin, to make someone of the mighty Sungshin bloodline tiptoe around him?


    Grandpa said we''re the ruling ss. But whyre you acting like youre part of the ruled ss, Hyung?


    I dont think the rulers Grandpa was talking about are the rulers you think they are.


    Jinchul was twisting the ruler concept their grandfather had spoken of.


    Doesnt matter! Jinchul bit his lip. You even got a list of the things we have to buy in this auction. Like youre his frickin butler.


    Why did the oldest son of Sungshin need to do as Kim Hyukjin said? Why did he have to follow Kim Hyukjins orders instead of making his own decisions? That was what Jinchul had a problem with.


    This is a coboration.


    You think Im stupid? Kim Hyukjins using Sungshins money to get rich without putting in any investment of his own!


    And?


    And what?


    Is that a bad thing?


    ...


    Jinchuls mouth snapped shut. Kiyeol quietly persuaded his childish little brother.


    Kim Hyukjin will use my money to secure amission. Thats a definite fact. And I will use his information to earn money. He will provide information, and I will provide the funds. Whats wrong with that?


    Wed do perfectly fine even without his stinky information!


    Of course. Wed probably be fine, yes.


    Kiyeol didnt think he had a bad eye. He was sure he would be able to buy items he needed, items that would be profitable, important items he couldter use to trade with the worlds Rankers and wealthy gathered here. He was confident of that.


    But Guildmaster Kim Hyukjin is better than me. Kiyeol was a good judge of his own ability. Whats wrong with securing a profit by entrusting an expert to do what he does well?


    But its not costing him a single penny. Hes just scooping up the returns without any risk. How does that make any sense to you, Hyung?


    Kiyeol breathed a long sigh and continued exining.


    The only thing I have to consider is whether its more profitable for me to participate in the auction alone, or more profitable for me to participate in the auction with Guildmaster Kims information. The process? The reason? How are those things important? The results will speak for themselves.


    I think what youre saying is cowardly reasoning, Hyung. Ill prove to you that youre wrong on my own.


    You will? How?


    I have some allowance saved up.


    Kiyeol had a good idea of how much that was. It couldnt be more than $500,000.


    I have $1 million at my disposal.


    ...


    Youre surprised, right? I took what I got from Grandpa and grew it to a million.


    Jinchul was 14 years old. For an eighth grader to take $500,000 and turn it into $1 million was an impressive feat. Of course, Jinchul couldnt have done it on his ownhe was probably helped by a financial manager assigned to him by their grandfather. Kiyeol pretended not to know that.


    You did well there.


    Im capable of doing this well on my own. Even without listening to that rude prick. Jinchul continued, brimming with confidence. Lets make a bet. To see who can get the higher return rate.


    You want to bet on who gets the higher gainpared to the invested amount?


    Yeah. Im confident.


    Kiyeolughed.


    Its not a bad thing for him to experience it for himself.


    Experience just how outstanding Kim Hyukjin was, at least when it came to ying. Jinchul had to get a little taste to at least somewhat acknowledge Kim Hyukjin.


    Very well.


    You can only invest in the things Kim Hyukjin listed. Ill invest in other things.


    Kiyeol nodded.


    What will the winner get?


    If I win, end your partnership with Kim Hyukjin. I cant crush him because of you.


    Kiyeol was so dumbfounded he had tough.


    You cant crush him because of me?


    Cant crush Kim Hyukjin, a talent even their grandfather valued? A monster of a human who, though unnoticed in the public eye, went around trampling top Rankers worldwide?


    When will you see clearly, little brother?


    He had to make Jinchul see straight, even if Kiyeol needed to beat the sense into him. But now that the kid was a teenager in his rebellious phase, Kiyeol found himself unable to use such an extreme method.


    And Guildmaster Kim Hyukjin told me to let him be.


    There was definitely a reason for that. Kiyeol decided to let his little brother be, for now.


    Fine. In exchange, if I win, youll speak to Guildmaster Kim Hyukjin with utmost respect.


    ...


    Dont like the terms?


    Im part of the ruling ss.


    And?


    How can the ruling ss show utmost respect to the ruled ss?


    Dont think you can win?


    Jinchul flinched.


    No, Im sure I can win. Okay, fine. Heh. If you win, Ill treat Kim Hyukjin with respect!


    Jinchul didnt tell his brother that he had an innate ability called Discernment. He was sure he could choose more outstanding items than Kim Hyukjin while spending less if he used the ability.


    Just you wait and see.


    Song Jinchul jumped into a war with his 8th grader pride on the line.


    * * *


    * * *


    Kim Hyukjin, Song Kiyeol, and Song Jinchul sat down next to each other.


    The LA Auction House Michelle was hosting looked like a musical theater. Quite a lot of people were seated in the hall, and below them, preparations for the auction were well underway.


    The auctioneer was someone who wouldter be famous in the auction scene, Hans.


    We will now begin the auction.


    Kim Hyukjin looked around. There were people wearing masks to hide their identities, as well as people who were openly showing their faces.


    He also saw some big shot Rankers.


    The Milky Way.


    The Ink Sword.


    The Stealthy yer.


    The Corpse Sorcerer.


    The Mist at Dawn.


    Hyukjin felt a rush of emotion as he looked at the future Rankers with all sorts of nicknames gathered in one ce.


    I only ever saw them on TV.


    The top Rankers Hyukjin knew from the future were already top Rankers now. That did make him feel a little bitter. These people were the ones graced with talent, the ones who were born with the blessed ability to adapt all too well to this new age.


    Well, theres no such thing as equality in this world.


    Everyone was born with different appearances, even. The world was not equal. It was the ufortable, but honest truth. Before his regression, Hyukjin was also not graced by talent and lived an aimless, meaningless life.


    He suddenly noticed Song Jinchul sitting two seats away.


    Just like how that spoiled brat is living the high life because he was born to the right grandfather.


    He was struck with the same sense of dizziness again.


    A factor in a major variable.


    Why did he get this strange feeling whenever he looked at Song Jinchul? Hyukjin had no idea.


    The auction began in earnest. The first item came in the shape of a flute.


    Song Kiyeol said, We will pass on this one.


    Yes. Some fairly useless items were being auctioned as well. Hyukjin pointed with his eyes and said, Over there. Do you see that man wearing the ck clothes with the tiger pattern?


    Yes, I see him. Thats Xu Xin from China.


    Dont go for the items he bids on.


    Howe?


    That man is a manic collector.


    It would be odd if Chinas Xu Xin were to be absent here. He wasnt a yer. He was invited here on ount of his wealth. With his real estate and logistics conglomerates, he was one of the ten most wealthy people on Earth.


    Hyukjin felt his mood sour. There was no real reason why. It was the first time he got this impression from someone since Seo Joohwan.


    TN: Seo Joohwan is the pedophile Hyukjin killed way back.


    Come to think of it, the world really is unfair.


    Xu Xin of China had the nickname Manic Hoarder.


    Manic hoarder: A person with a pathological drive to find and collect not just valuable things, but also useless things.


    Even though he wasnt a yer, he had a nickname like that, a telltale indication of just how crazy a hoarder he was.


    He also bought a ton of items.


    Any item that went into his hands would be locked forevermore in the Xu Xin Exhibition Hall, never to see the light of day again.


    If he had lent the [Mermaids Bottle] to the public during the Beijing Megadrought scenario, at least 300,000 wouldnt have died.


    Not just that.


    100,000 people would have survived if the yers had the [Shining with Moonlight] when hunting the One-Eyed Giant.


    It wasnt a bad thing for someone to not lend others their items. That was their right as the owner of the item. It was great if they lent them for the public good, and if they didnt, it couldnt be helped. Hyukjin knew that, too. It was the natural way of things and something he shouldnt criticize, but for some reason, Hyukjin felt displeasure surge through him.


    Why?


    Why did he feel displeasure? Hyukjin tried figuring out the reason, unconsciously bing engrossed in his musing.


    It was widely rumored that he killed a poor girl and stole the Mermaids Bottle from her.


    Whether that was true or not could not be confirmed. There were suspicions, but no proof to back it up.


    I even heard he ughtered a vige to steal the Shining with Moonlight.


    Many cursed him as a bastard worthy of divine retribution, but Xu Xin lived high on the hog with zero repercussions. But was he feeling so repulsed because of such rumors? Hyukjin didnt know.


    From somewhat far away, Hyukjin observed Xu Xin a little more.


    Interesting. He was actually a yer?


    He was like CEO Song. Despite his advanced age, he awakened as a yer. Right here in this hall, Xu Xin was sitting as a yer, a fact he had never revealed.<blockquote>


    Summary:<ol><li>


    Manic Hoarder Blinded by Greed</li></ol></blockquote>


    That wasnt allhe had also awakened an innate ability, one that was very rare to the public but often encountered byRankers.<blockquote>


    Innate ability: Thief Tracking</blockquote>


    Hyukjin kept staring at Xu Xin.


    Hrm?


    Their eyes met. Despite the considerable distance between them, Xu Xin looked this way. He had the feeling their eyes definitely met.


    Im not just imagining it.


    That meant he had sensed Hyukjins gaze on him. Hyukjin felt something like an itch. When their eyes met, his heart felt itchy, a feeling he had experienced several times.


    Focus.


    There was no need to cower because Xu Xin had noticed him. Hyukjin did not fear him at all. Things were so very different from the past. He ramped Observers Eye to the max, knowing from experience that he would see something at times like this. Something <em>more.</em><blockquote>


    [Observers Eye recognizes countless stigmata.]</blockquote>


    His eyes ached a little, but it was bearable.<blockquote>


    [Observers Eye begins to recognize/interpret the stigmata.]


    [You have fulfilled a new condition.]


    [The proficiency of Observers Eye has increased.]</blockquote>


    Observers Eye went up to proficiency 3, and with it, he began to see the previously unseen.


    He saw itthe stigma engraved on Xu Xins body. He began to faintly see what the Demon King and Bufafa had talked about. But it wasnt an ordinary stigma.<blockquote>


    [Observers Eye is analyzing the corrupted stigma.]</blockquote>


    What is this?


    New things began to unfold before Hyukjins eyes.

 Chapter 221

    Chapter 221


    An extremely unpleasant feeling surged into Hyukjin like the rising tide.


    What is this?


    Several scenes yed in his head. A quick look was enough to tell him that they were all disgusting scenes. To put it in keywords, domestic rape and family homicide, imprisonment and very, forced castration, genocide of a minority group, and so on. One horrific scene after another flooded in.


    He remembered the notice from before.<blockquote>


    [Observers Eye is analyzing the corrupted stigma.]</blockquote>


    Then there was only one answer. These scenes ying in his head were connected to Xu Xins stigma.


    Stigmata are achievements engraved in ones body.


    Did anyone here trulyck achievements? Hyukjin looked around. Everyone he saw was a Ranker or a megamillionaire. There wasnt a single person who had no achievements to their name. It was just that he couldnt read their achievements, at least not yet.


    It must mean Xu Xin has umted so much achievement that even a proficiency 3 Observers Eye can interpret it.


    Although it was questionable if these gruesome actions could really be called achievements.


    If he can be analyzed to this extent by me


    Then just how despicably had this man lived his life? It made Hyukjin think that all the unsubstantiated stories that had gone around on the Inte in the past were true.


    Hyukjin looked away. Xu Xin also turned away. Both of them looked towards the stage, where the auction was starting.


    Even if his stigma is dirty


    There was no reason for him to care about that. Hyukjin was no apostle of justice, nor did he have the right to bring down judgment on Xu Xin.


    However


    I have a feeling well butt heads.


    If he messed with Hyukjin, that would change things. Hyukjin was enraged. Not as a yer, but as a person. What he was feeling was a normal emotion anyone with the heart and soul of a human would feel and sympathize with.


    Hyukjins Eye of Perception could feel that Xu Xins gaze had been less than friendly. His eyes had been bristling with the thought, You dare to look straight at me?


    And before long, Hyukjins hunch was proven. Xu Xin began to bid on every item Song Kiyeol went for.


    Xu Xin keeps interfering.


    Yes. It seems intentional.


    Why is he doing this?


    I think its because we met eyes.


    It was an utterly trivial reason, but there was no doubt about it.


    Dont fight Xu Xin with money.


    Understood.


    Even if the current Song Kiyeol fought Xu Xin with money, there was no chance he would win, a fact Kiyeol knew as well.


    If Xu Xin ces a bid, I will give up on the item.


    Yes.


    Song Kiyeol was a little dubious. Even Guildmaster Kim is afraid of Chinas capital?


    No, it didnt seem like that. Kim Hyukjin looked perfectly at ease.


    I think hes got some kind of plot in mind.


    Song Kiyeol felt it, too. The way Hyukjin looked at Xu Xin was far from kind. A shiver ran down Kiyeols body. He had seen Hyukjins expressionless face many times. That was when he was most terrifying, because this man was someone whose thoughts were utterly inscrutable.


    Hes scheming something.


    What that was, Kiyeol didnt know. But he felt slight anticipation rise within him.


    A mega-conglomerate of China


    How would Kim Hyukjin cook up the leader of a Chinese conglomerate? Xu Xin had interfered with Sungshins entry into China. Kiyeol didnt like the man, either.


    The auction continued.


    The next auction item is the [Infinite Pouch].


    It was one of the items on the purchase list Hyukjin had given him. Kiyeol put in a bid, which Xu Xin once again countered. The moment Xu Xin stepped in, everyone else also gave up on bidding. Apparently, they were also aware of Xu Xins fanatical hoarding.


    Once again, the item goes to Customer #33!


    Kiyeol felt a small spike of urgency.


    Is it really going to be okay? Grandfather boasted that we would get a big profit out of this auction.


    They had purchased just three items and used a total of $4.5 million, less than anticipated.


    You will earn at least $7 million even with what youve already purchased.


    A $2.5 million profit with an investment of $4.5 million. It was a tremendous return rate. But seen from the viewpoint of a giant corporation like Sungshin, it wasnt all that impressive. The return rate might be high, but the earned amount itself was low.


    The next item is the [Fountain Pen of Freedom]!


    Thats the item you said you absolutely wanted


    Lets just see if Xu Xin bids on it.


    The item was called the Fountain Pen of Freedom.<blockquote>


    [Fountain Pen of Freedom]


    Only the destroyer of the Gray Ring can activate the item description.</blockquote>


    SeveralRankers put in bids. Its current price was $600k.


    I will bid as well.


    Song Kiyeol offered $700k. But Xu Xin came in once again.


    $900k.


    There it is! Customer #33 has bid once again!


    The auctioneers voice echoed loudly through the hall. Kiyeol whispered, This is totally intentional. Shall we give up this time as well?


    Yes.


    Song Kiyeol gave up on the item, like all the others. However, Kim Hyukjin spoke under his breath, so quietly no one could hear.


    Darong. Go steal them all.


    A [?] popped up over Darongis head. The little squirrel seemed surprised. From his experience, his master wasnt the type of person to rob other peoples items without good reason. But he just gave amand to steal them <em>all</em>? Darongi followed his masters gaze.


    He saw a certain man, a man attired in a tiger pattern suit.<blockquote>


    [!!!]</blockquote>


    The question mark turned into exmation points. Darongi had also watched the auction from start to finish. That was the jerk who kept interfering with his master.<blockquote>


    []</blockquote>


    Darongi went into Stealth mode.


    The genius of theft went on the prowl. He moved far faster and more stealthily than usual, his eyes gleaming with greed.


    * * *


    * * *


    The Chinese billionaire, Xu Xin, felt his mood lift.


    That youngster had looked him straight in the eye, scouring him with an impolite gaze. Whats more, the scum appeared to be the Taeguk Shield Song Kiyeols subordinate. Xu Xin would feel displeasure from getting stared at by Song Kiyeol, but that mans <em>subordinate</em> dared to meet his eyes? It was utterly unpleasant. So he taught him a lesson. He showed that brat there was money above money, power above power.


    The auction is nearly over.


    Indeed. Those Taeguk Shield bastards were immediately tucking their tails when I bid, right?


    Yes, they certainly were. I think they realized the difference in power.


    Xu Xin nodded. But its quite cute that they recognized that and didnt bite back like rabid dogs. His lips curled into a grin. If they had failed to realize their ce, I would have put them six feet under without a soul knowing.


    This wasnt Korea. It might be hard toy a hand on them in Korea, but this was the US. Burying them alive in the US wasnt at all difficult, and the evidence could be fabricated.


    Its good that they knew their ce. The great tolerance and kindness you showed them is immeasurable.


    Of course, of course.


    Xu Xin truly thought that was true. Those bastards were living right now because Xu Xin had permitted it.


    But just then


    Huh?


    Something was off. The items were transferred to him, there was no mistake about it. And yet


    What?


    Every single item he had received was gone. His Inventory had beenpletely emptied.


    And what is <em>that</em>?


    In one of his Inventory slots was a piece of half-eaten fried chicken. All of his items were gone, leaving just that one chunk of leftover chicken.


    THIS GODDAMN FUCKING! Xu Xin surged to his feet and screamed, WHO THE HELL WAS IT?!


    Every head in the hall swiveled towards him.


    COME OUT RIGHT THIS INSTANT!


    Xu Xin saw red. He had no idea which piece of shit had stolen his precious collectibles, his lovable items. In his rage, his innate ability was deployed.<blockquote>


    [Using the innate ability Hunt Down the Thief.]</blockquote>


    The entirety of the auction house instantly turned gray. Kim Hyukjin observed Xu Xin in amusement.


    Hunt Down the Thief, is it.


    Xu Xin was an excellent offering for Observers Eye.<blockquote>


    [Observers Eye is at proficiency 3.]


    [A newfound innate ability has manifested.]


    [An unknown innate ability has been discovered.]</blockquote>


    Observers Eye went up in proficiency, and a new innate ability just happened to manifest right afterwards.<blockquote>


    [You have fulfilled a hidden condition.]


    [An innate ability of Observers Eye has been unlocked.]</blockquote>


    A condition was fulfilled, unlocking yet another ability of Observers Eye for the first time in a while.<blockquote>


    4) Innate abilities:<ul><li>


    Unique Ability Fusion</li><li>


    Authority Analysis</li></ul></blockquote>


    Authority Analysis joined the ranks of Unique Ability Fusion.Hyukjin tested it immediately, because in front of him was an excellent guinea pig, Xu Xin. Not only had the man given him an opportunity to advance, but he was even acting as ab rat.<blockquote>


    [Using the innate ability Authority Analysis.]</blockquote>


    Very detailed information about the Thief Tracking Xu Xin was using started taking shape in his head, almost like the ability description window was activated and absorbed into his mind.<blockquote>


    [Hunt Down the Thief]


    An authority that is activated when the yer suspects something of theirs or an item in their Inventory has been stolen. The range of Hunt Down the Thief changes depending on the type, grade, and number of stolen items. When the yer does not just suspect theft and is instead certain of theft, Hunt Down the Thief will be even more powerful.</blockquote>


    Right now, the ability user was certain that his items had been stolen.


    Darongi. You hold onto them.


    Hyukjin trusted that Darongi was skilled enough to not get caught by Hunt Down the Thief. It was an amusing innate ability. Just like how there were sses that were strong in front of gates, there were sses that were strong when their items were stolen.


    Guns materialized all over the gray field. They took the shape of guns, but Hyukjin could feel powerful mana flow from them. They were guns made of mana that shot mana bullets.


    Michelle stepped forward.


    Mr. Xu Xin, this is my ce of business.


    If this is your ce of business, then you should manage it as such!


    Xu Xins face had turned red with rage. He was extremely worked up and saw nothing but red.


    What do you mean?


    Theres a rat hiding in this crowd, a rat I must catch.


    Do you mean to say you were hit with item theft?


    Thats right! Outta my way!


    Xu Xin shoved Michelle in irritation. Michelle could have dodged, but she chose not to in order to secure a self-defense justification.


    If you turn yourself in right this instant, I will spare your life.


    That was, of course, a lie. He would let them live here and kill them outside. He would throw them into a vat of acid and relish their screams. They hadmitted the ultimate crime of messing with his items.


    If you dont show yourself right now


    The guns floating in the air moved, fixing themselves on a single target.


    Know that someones head will be sted off.


    Xu Xin looked like he had lost all reason, but that wasnt entirely the case. He didnt point his guns at any of the top Rankers. He took aim at the nameless ones, the people with the least weight out of all the people here, or the nonbat ss yers.


    And representing those unlucky nobodies was Kim Hyukjin, the attendant and subordinate of Taeguk Shields guildmaster.


    Starting with him.


    Numerous crosshairs appeared over Hyukjins heart and forehead.


    Ill give you ten seconds.


    The numbers appeared in the field itself. Everyone could see the countdown.<blockquote>


    [10]


    [9]</blockquote>


    The numbers ticked down.


    If you donte out, Ill start by shredding that bastards head.


    Hyukjin wasnt at all ruffled. He knew exactly where they were. This was Michelles ce of business. In other words, it was essentially the domain of the Herdsman of Las Vegas.


    With a smirk, he raised his voice so everyone could hear.


    Mr. Xu Xin. Would you like to have a bet with me?


    A n to turn the countless items he had stolen uwfully from Xu Xin into items he had stolenwfully took form in his mind.


    A n using the prominent Guardian called the Herdsman of Las Vegas.

 Chapter 222

    Chapter 222


    Mr. Xu Xin. Would you like to have a bet with me?


    Kim Hyukjin wasnt truly proposing a bet to Xu Xin. This was just to provoke him. Xu Xin was set on making a lesson out of Hyukjin anyway. Hyukjins goal was to put another drop of oil onto an already zing fire.


    Now that Ive brought up a bet, Michelle cant take action. At least for a while.


    This one word would give Michelle pause. Normally, she should have acted quickly, summoning her Guardian Tower or mobilizing the Michelle Division to subdue Xu Xin. But that n of action was shut down by a single sentence from Hyukjin.


    Because this is content the Herdsman of Las Vegas enjoys.


    She could not prevent such content from ying out. Michelle, the host, could only watch. She would definitely step in at some point, but Hyukjin had won himself some time.


    Bet? Did you just say bet?


    Xu Xins voice went up a few octaves. His thread of rationality had long since snapped. He, a manic hoarder, was stripped of all his precious collectibles. There was no stopping him now.


    Hyukjin grinned. He threw out another provocation.


    A bet to see which of the two is faster: those cheap-ass guns youve summoned, or my Item Shop arrow.


    Hyukjin took out the Sturdy Wooden Bow he had purchased from the Item Shop. It was obviously fresh from the Item Shop. Most of the Rankers here recognized that it was from the Item Shop, and the person who saw that most clearly was none other than the American yer, Mark.


    It really is from the Item Shop?


    Mark had been scouted into the Michelle Division. If Korea had Hyun Junghwa, the US had Mark. Both were yers contracted to the Night of Shooting Stars. He was a yer with a talent and potential in archery that was second to none.


    That bow is heavy, so its not often used.


    Being an Item Shop product didnt mean it was necessarily bad. But that Sturdy Wooden Bow was seldom used due to its weight. An archer was far better off using the lighter Wooden Bow even at the cost of slightly less damage.


    His forms a mess.


    The man appeared to be a Korean yer. Mark also spotted the guildmaster of Taeguk Shield next to him. Which meant the person with the Sturdy Wooden Bow was a guild member of Taeguk Shield, most likely an attendant of Song Kiyeol.


    Seeing as Song Kiyeol isnt stopping him


    The man had probably been instructed by Song Kiyeol to do this.


    But why?


    Mark was a member of the Michelle Division. He had a duty to stop anything undesirable from happening. The Michelle Division members stationed here were already preparing their skills, just as Mark was doing. He was just curious as to what Song Kiyeol was intending.


    Song Kiyeol should know exactly who Xu Xin is.


    Sacrificing one attendant shouldnt be that great a losshe could get a hugepensation from Xu Xin once the billionaire was thinking straight again, or use the incident to work negotiations to his favor.


    Song Kiyeol is a tank.


    Because he was a tank, he should be capable of blocking most attacks. Why wasnt he stopping his attendant?


    Ill just have to keep watching.


    From the looks of it, Michelle was staying her hand as well. She had her right hand in the air, ready to give themand to subdue the conflict, but she didnt bring it down. It meant she would keep watch, courtesy of Hyukjins one mention of a bet.


    Xu Xins eyes turned bloodshot with rage. He red at Kim Hyukjin, seething.


    Im <em>very d </em>you proposed this.


    ...


    Kim Hyukjin was taking aim at Xu Xin.


    DIE THEN!


    ...


    Hyukjin just waited.


    <em>Bang! Bang! Bang!</em>


    The floating guns fired mana bullets.


    Hyukjin didnt dodge. He just let them hit him.


    Two on the shoulder, one on the heart.


    Ah, it hurt a little more than he expected. It felt like someone had struck him hard with their fists, but he wasnt dealt any critical damage.


    You hit me first, yeah?


    Hyukjin nocked his arrow. After using bows like the ckfire Bow and Sylphids Wing, the Sturdy Wooden Bow felt clunky in his hand. It was heavy, low damage, and just all-around bad.<blockquote>


    [The special ability Eye for an Eye, Tooth for a Tooth has been forcibly activated.]</blockquote>


    The ability that hadnt had a chance to activatetely because no one openly attacked him first like this, Eye for an Eye, Tooth for a Tooth, kicked in.


    Hyukjin thought back to Hyun Junghwas movements. There was a goodb rat in front of him.


    Like this?


    Junghwa fired several arrows in one shot with her innate ability Consecutive Rapidfire. Those arrows were imbued with mana and were stronger than regr arrows.


    Mm.


    It wasnt quite at the level of Consecutive Rapidfire, but he managed a simr effect. He fired three arrows, but they were far faster than normal.


    The next moment, Xu Xin screamed.


    GAHHH!


    One arrow was lodged in each shoulder, as well as one in his abdomen. The man fell over, screaming.


    Total silence descended on the hall. Michelle finally gave themand.


    Subdue them. You can kill if they resist.


    Both of them?


    Both of them.


    Themand was a matter of fact for Michelle. If she continued to stay passive, it would harm the prestige of Michelle and the Michelle Division. It wouldnt just harm, it would inflict a massive crack.


    Hyukjin smiled.


    Shes doing well.


    Yes, she was making the right call. But if Hyukjin was in her position, he would have made Xu Xin kneel before things could progress this far. A few seconds. In just a few seconds, Hyukjin brought up a bet and involved the Herdsman of Las Vegas, which allowed the situation to balloon to such a state.


    Next time, move a little faster, Michelle.


    Hyukjin immediately dropped his weapon and put his hands behind his head. Mark came up to him.


    I will briefly detain you.


    Yes, go ahead.


    Hyukjin put out his hands. Song Kiyeol tried stepping in, but Hyukjin told him it was alright. Hyukjin was already clear on what kind of person Michelle was, and this was the result he himself had crafted.


    It wasnt hard to subdue Xu Xin. He was crumpled on the ground, crying like a man unfamiliar with pain. Apparently, even his rage had withered away at the pain.


    Take them away. Continue the auction.


    * * *


    * * *


    The auction went on, and Michelle took the two people behind the uproar away. Hyukjin followed Michelle behind the stage,pletely rxed.


    Behind the stage, Michelle stared at Kim Hyukjin. Behind her were Mark and around ten members of the Michelle Division.


    Dont you think you were too heavy-handed?


    Is that what you really think?


    ...


    Michelle didnt respond. Hyukjin continued, Two bullets to the shoulder, one to the heart. I was attacked. With a gun.


    ...


    So I gave him two arrows to the shoulder, and one to the abdomen.


    But you took zero damage, and Xu Xin is bleeding and unconscious.


    You mean you <em>made</em> him unconscious.


    Hyukjin saw Liam, a yer capable of mental attacks. He was a future Ranker with the nickname Wanderer of the Night. Liam had probably knocked Xu Xin unconscious, while the healer Adam administered emergency treatment.


    You used excessive force. And in my ce of business. Im sure you know that.


    You should have prevented this from happening in the first ce. Your response was too slow.


    I do apologize about that. Michelle acknowledged her faults. But I have no choice but to take action against you. Since you attacked someone in a ce I am hosting.


    Hm.


    Hyukjin was calm. Michelle was merely saying what she had to say and doing what she had to do.


    You purposefully involved the Herdsman of Las Vegas to escte things.


    I would have been very disappointed if you hadnt realized that.


    Michelle lowered her voice. Why did you act so openly?


    What do you mean?


    You have always hidden your skills as much as possible. It was the same in our recent War. You have a special ability to hide yourself. So why? Why did youe forward so openly this time?


    Let me ask you, then. Michelle, would you do nothing if someone fired a gun at you?


    I would have prevented them from firing in the first ce. And I wouldnt have provoked them.


    This wouldnt have happened if you had kept a strict lock on the situation to keep it from happening in the first ce. You hesitated a little because the opposite party was Xu Xin, and hesitated again because I alluded to the Herdsman of Las Vegas. Hyukjin shrugged. Between the merit of satisfying the Herdsman of Las Vegas expectations or the penalty of allowing the unthinkable to happen in your ce of business, you should have chosen one or the other and quickly taken action. You lost both rabbits in your greed to catch both, and now youre demanding that I take responsibility?


    That instantly shut Michelle up. She really, truly could not find the words to retort.


    Youre quite eloquent.


    I only stated facts.


    I think youre forgetting what situation youre in right now.


    Ah.


    Hyukjin raised his hands, which Mark responded to by raising his bow. He aimed at Hyukjins forehead.


    The situation Im in, you say Hyukjin shrugged. I am a yer who is required by the System to attack back at all costs if someone attacks me first.


    What do you mean?


    I have a special ability called Eye for an Eye, Tooth for a Tooth.


    And?


    And my brain will be scrambled if I dont attack back while I have this ability. In other words, what I did was simply a justified y. And what youre doing is wrongfully oppressing me for making a justified y. Hyukjin nced behind him. Right, Senia?


    Senia showed herself. Several members of the Michelle Division couldnt help but cough. Senia was certainly beautiful, so beautiful she could draw every gaze and induce admiration with her appearance alone. An Intermediate Administrator whose refined beauty shined radiantly simply by existing descended among them.


    In the eyes of the System, it was a justified y.


    Hyukjin nodded.


    To turn it around, what Xu Xin did was actually a justified y as well.


    His ss did not allow him to be robbed of his items. That was why he had an innate ability like Hunt Down the Thief. A thief had appeared, so the thief had to be found. The only problem was, his way of going about it was too crude.


    Xu Xin and I were merely ying.


    Michelle had no choice but to nce uneasily at Senia.


    Even an Intermediate Administrator stepped forward.


    If an Intermediate Administrator came forward and imed this was a justified y, there wasnt actually much a yer could do. All they could do was hope for the Intermediate Administrators magnanimity and tolerance. Seeing as Michelles own Intermediate Administrator was remaining in transparent mode, it was clear that Hyukjins side was justified.


    Surely you didnt just think killing monsters and clearing dungeons was all there was to ying?


    Michelle realized exactly what those words meant. Kim Hyukjin wasnt just talking to her right now. He was saying those words for the benefit of the Guardians who were watching, since many of them surely had a focus on nonbat content.


    Oh, right! Ive already revealed my ability to you, havent I?


    Yes. It is truly a mystical power.


    The name of that ability is Cognitive Dissonance.


    The right time hade. Hyukjin had intended on revealing it himself, and that right time was now.


    I used that ability earlier as well. When I fired my bow at that guy.


    Which means the others wont remember you.


    Michelle strained to figure out what Kim Hyukjin was intending. Just what did this man want?


    He definitely provoked Xu Xin.


    He, a man who disliked drawing attention, had done that on purpose. There was no mistake that all of this was engineered by Kim Hyukjin. For what?


    Were you the one who took Xu Xins items?


    Are you using a random person of being a thief?


    Its because Im not convinced as to why you did this.


    Why did he provoke Xu Xin like that?


    You dont need to be convinced. I have my own scenario to y, and I need to puzzle it out my way. Just like how you went to the trouble of calling in the worlds Rankers to put on a bothersome auction.


    ...


    Im not buying your reasoning for it, either. I dont think you did this for money. Hyukjin continued. In any case, as a participant of the auction and a subordinate of Taeguk Shields guildmaster, I think I have no choice but to give you face, Ms. Michelle.


    Give me face?


    Lets say you stripped me of all my power and chased me out of the country back to Korea. You can also say you beat me up, why not. I was stripped of all my power as a yer and will never be able to step foot in the world of ying again.


    Hyukjin took out the item he was gifted by the Whispering Devil.


    With this, you will be able to convince the Rankers without a hitch.


    Michelle took the item. It was called Trickery. After receiving it, she unlocked the handcuffs on Hyukjins wrists. Xu Xin was still unconscious.


    Im sure youre not giving me this for free, she said.


    Of course not. You need topensate me for giving you face at the cost of losing my power as a yer and getting chased back to Korea.


    That was the story they would announce to the public.


    What do you want in return?


    The finish line was in sight. Hyukjin obtained all the priceless items in Xu Xins possession, including the Fountain Pen of Freedom. He also became acquainted with Michelle. He had achieved every goal he originally had for this ce.


    There was just one thing left.


    What I want


    He pointed to Mark.


    ...is him.

 Chapter 223

    Chapter 223


    The person at the end of Hyukjins finger, Mark, tilted his head.


    Me?


    You.


    Do you know me?


    Yes. Youre Mark, an archer.


    How is it that you know me?


    Im friends with Pietro.


    Pietro was sure to have approached Mark with a request to cooperate already. At the very least, Michelle had to know Pietro. Sure enough, Michelle jumped in.


    Very well. Lets say youre friends with Pietro. But why do you want Mark? It cant be that youre


    Her eyes narrowed. She almost asked if he was gay, but resisted.


    Hyukjin said quickly, Im in need of an archer. To clear a dungeon.


    An archer? Understanding seemed to dawn on Michelle. As it is, Pietro made a request to us. He asked for Mark.


    I think you know what Im talking about, then. I would like to y with Mark.


    I refused Pietro then, and Ill refuse you now.


    Hyukjin knew she would refuse. In the past, Mark hadnt gone into the Wingless Angel Statue Gate.


    Open your trade window for me real quick.


    Michelle activated her trade window and nearly let out a gasp.


    The Mighty Elbow.


    A legendary bow. Its attack power was a staggering 55-68. She had never seen a long-ranged weapon of this level.


    Cat-Shaped Bottle.


    This one was a [?] item that was won by Xu Xin for $1.5 million in the auction just now.


    Sacred Water Drop.


    It, too, was a [?] item. One that was won by Xu Xin for $1 million.


    Kim Hyukjin really did steal them!


    What<em> are you using a random person of being a thief</em>? Remembering his guiltless face as he spouted such nonsense nearly made her lose it.


    How did he do it?


    But that wasnt important right now.


    Really, Ms. Michelle. Its a pity something so unsavory happened in a ce under your management.


    Do you have any right to say that?


    This was a critical blow to Michelle as well. A theft happened unnoticed in her ce of business, and she couldnt inflict any punishment whatsoever on the thief? Whats more, she was talking to that very thief right now with a trade window open between them.


    How can he be so brazen when hes the thief?


    The thief being so bold and shameless left Michelle at a loss for words.


    Kim Hyukjin whispered to her, Your security is too weak, stop there.


    The quick-witted yers of the Michelle Division took a few steps back. Michelles voice also became very quiet.


    Was that a threat just now?


    Honor was a very important value to a sovereign. If this got out, it could deal a huge blow to Michelle.


    No, I want to give these to you. So we can reach a deal.


    Hyukjin pressed the ept Trade button. Now, the two of them just had to press the OK button, and the items would be hers. Michelle could read his intent.


    You want me to get on the same boat as you, is that it?


    The recklessness of this thief in turning the host into an aplice was truly something else. And yet, it urred to her that this recklessness was Kim Hyukjins greatest weapon, and he was all too good at wielding it.


    Michelle asked just to make sure.


    Mark. If you could get a legendary bow, would you take on any risk, no matter how dangerous?


    A legendary bow?


    A bow with an attack power of 55-68, +5 Agility, and a special skill called Double Shot.


    Mark responded at once. Of course. Of course I would take on any risk for a bow like that.


    Even if its the ce Pietro wanted to clear?


    Of course. Ive never even seen a legendary bow, and it even has bonus Agility stats and a special skill. I would jump into the fires of hell if I could get my hands on that.


    Marks eyes were shining. He was truly tempted by the term legendary. Hyukjin grinned. It seemed the deal was done.


    Id like to make an additional trade. He proposed the same thing he had asked Hyun Junghwa. I would also like to request Marks assistance in Koreas Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon and Singapores Gardens by the Bay Dungeon. Though, well, youre free to refuse.


    Will you go into those ces as well?


    Yes. We would go in together.


    Then well consider it.


    However, I will have first pick on everythinging from those ces. This is a request from someone who is being stripped of all his power as a yer and getting chased out of the States. Surely you can entertain such a small request?


    The way you say it, someone might really believe you.


    In any case, a temporary contract was established.


    Lets trade after we look into those ces a little more.


    Then can I head out?


    I think itll look better to haul you out on a stretcher.


    Thats true.


    Michelle spoke quickly. What about breaking your leg for real? Ill be sure to take responsibility for healing youter.


    No thanks.


    But wouldnt it be best to be thorough? I think this is the right call for a seeker of perfection like yourself.


    ...


    The auction hall is crawling with top Rankers. Are you sure you can fool their eyes?


    It <em>is </em>the surefire way, but


    Hyukjin was silent for a moment. When he thought about it, she<em> was </em>right.


    Top Rankers. Fooling their eyes wasnt necessarily impossible, but doing things the sure way was best, and one or two broken parts could be quickly repaired by a healer.


    Michelle smiled warmly.


    How about it? One leg, one arm. Lets just break those, shall we?


    ...


    In the end, Hyukjin nodded. It was minor, but she got him this time.


    Please be gentle.


    * * *


    * * *


    The public was told that the Korean assant lost all power as a yer. He was also carried out with a broken arm and leg, a disy all the top Rankers had witnessed.


    Song Kiyeol didnt make much of aint.


    The Taeguk Shield guildmaster isnt doing anything?


    Guess that means he tacitly agrees with Michelles judgment.


    Michelle will probably give them hugepensation behind the scenes. To Xu Xin and Taeguk Shield.


    They were also fairly clear on how this world worked.


    Its basically a show. To parade Michelles strength and authority.


    If it wasnt, there was no need to carry out that debilitated attendant on a stretcher when one spell from a healer would fix him up right as rain. Everyone knew that, and everyone understood Michelles intent. And no one found it strange.


    Whatll happen to Xu Xin?


    Bet itll be different from the attendant. Its Xu Xin, after all.


    Everyone thought Xu Xin would get a p on the wrist and be released. But it wasnt as they expected. Michelle came up to the stage, briefly pausing the auction, and spoke through a microphone.


    Before entering this hall, everyone signed a contract.


    And thus began Michelles long speech. To summarize it, her point was, Everyone here signed an agreement epting punishment if you cause a disturbance at this event, right?


    Thats why Ipletely deprived the Taeguk Shield attendant of his power.


    It wasnt just a few broken limbs. This was a kind of warning. A warning that she had a way to artificially deprive a yer of their miraculous power. Michelle was announcing to the top Rankers that she had such a means at her disposal.


    I broke his arm and leg to set an example and sent him back to Korea. He will never be able to return to ying in his lifetime.


    Michelle gave a small nod to Song Kiyeol.


    I wish to thank the Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield for his cooperation. Thank you. You gave up your subordinate for the sake of impartiality, and I was impressed by your dedication to upholding justice.


    No one here believed those words entirely, but they were just spoken for appearances anyway. Michelle herself didnt put much significance into them. She just said them because she had to.


    Also, regarding Mr. Xu Xin, who initiated this incident


    Michelle took a breath. It wasnt like this was easy for her, either. Xu Xin was a giant. But she had to set an example, so Michelle made a decision.


    He will be treated the same way as the Taeguk Shield attendant. As he has already suffered severe injury to his shoulders and abdomen, I deemed further physical punishment unnecessary. Mr. Xu Xin is currently unconscious.


    The Taeguk Shield attendant was deprived of his yer rights and two of his limbs were broken. Simrly, Xu Xin had his yer rights taken away, meaning he was stripped of his power as a yer.


    The Rankers gathered in the hall murmured amongst themselves.


    She did that to Xu Xin?


    The attendant is one thing, but<em> Xu Xin</em>?


    Wowzo. Michelles got guts.


    It means shes confident she can deal with the aftermath.


    But still, its Xu Xin.


    After checking the crowds reaction, Michelle continued. Now then, we will continue the auction.


    * * *


    Thomas went to Michelles room. He looked a little angry.


    What are you thinking?


    He wasnt able to confront her in an official setting, but this was her private quarters. Thomas was Michelles closest friend and deputy. He didnt hide his feelings.


    Michelle took a seat on the sofa.


    Is this about Xu Xin?


    Yeah. You should have stopped at the Taeguk Shield attendant.


    The Taeguk Shield attendant was just thatan attendant. There wouldnt be much bacsh even if he was killed. After all, an attendant was just an attendant. But Xu Xin was different. Dealing with the aftermath would be difficult.


    Michelle responded calmly, seemingly unaware of Thomas feelings.


    But then it wouldnt be fair.


    If you wanted it to be fair, you should have let the attendant off.


    If I did that, our prestige would drop to rock bottom. As the sponsor, I needed to be impartial.


    But still! Its Xu Xin were talking about, Xu Xin!


    Michelle chuckled. She went back to what Thomas had said earlier. You said I should have let the attendant off, right?


    Puzzled by the sudden tangent, Thomas faltered. Michelle immediately continued.


    Thats what I did.


    What do you mean?


    Thomas had been managing the auction, so he didnt know about the secret deal between Michelle, the Michelle Division, and Kim Hyukjin. Michelle had everyone swear to absolute secrecy.


    The attendant is fine. The only one who got messed up is Xu Xin.


    ...


    After a moment of silence, Thomas checked if he had heard her right.


    What did you just say? The attendant is what?


    That mans name is Kim Hyukjin.


    His name isnt important!


    Anyway, Kim Hyukjins perfectly fine. He suffered no repercussions whatsoever.


    Thomas was silent again.


    The flow of the conversation is really weird.


    It was different from how they usually talked. Michelle was being strangely evasive.


    Theres something between them.


    Thomas was able to realize from Michelles words that there was unmistakably some kind of deal between them. Kim Hyukjin getting hauled away on a stretcher was another type of show.


    He took a deep breath. He trusted Michelle. She wouldnt do something like this without thinking it through.


    Why? Why did you go easy on him and not Xu Xin? Why did you announce things the way you did?


    You think <em>I </em>went easy on him?


    What does <em>that </em>mean?


    Were not the ones who went easy on Kim Hyukjin.


    Thomas doubted his ears. But Michelle didnt look like she was joking.


    What are you saying? You did go easy on Kim Hyukjin.


    Its Kim Hyukjin who went easy on us.


    The room was quiet for a while.


    Are you being serious?


    I am.


    Silence stretched between them again. Michelle gave a light chuckle and continued. A long time from now, youlle to know what I mean.


    If you let Kim Hyukjin off and not Xu Xin, wont that make things escte?


    Not at all.


    How can you be so sure?


    He has the Cognitive Dissonance ability. And dont you remember how I intentionally talked for a really long time earlier?


    Michelle typically went straight to the point. She preferred being concise and not talking in circles. But this time, she was very verbose, a point Thomas had found unusual.


    I used a consumable item I got from Kim Hyukjin during the speech.


    Whats that?


    Trickery.


    They heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas is curious.]


    [The Whispering Devil is gleeful.]


    [The Night of Shooting Stars is curious about your deal.]</blockquote>


    Whispering Devil, Night of Shooting Stars. Both were Guardians she had never heard of before. But seeing as her Intermediate Administrator was making a huge fuss, it was highly likely they were named Guardians.


    Michelle recalled Hyukjins face.


    If it were Kim Hyukjin


    What would he do in this situation? She had learned from watching him. His acting, his way of producing content, were lessons Michelle drew from now.


    He would have waited a little here.


    Thomas asked again, What kind of item was it?


    Trickery.


    Eh? Thomas had never heard of it before. Whats that?


    Trickery. Michelle thought back to how she had used it and how she had linked it with her own abilities.


    She had learned from Kim Hyukjin.


    This wasnt an exnation for Thomas benefit, but for the new Guardians who had entered her channel, the Whispering Devil and the Night of Shooting Stars.

 Chapter 224

    Chapter 224


    Its an item that can influence the mind when tricking others and concealing the truth, exined Michelle.


    A mind effect item? Those exist?


    Michelle intentionally paused for a beat, thinking that was what Kim Hyukjin would have done.


    I had no idea either, but guess so. Thats what he gave me.


    How strong is it? Strong enough to mentally control someone?


    Not quite that strong. It just helps a little. Michelle said, You definitely saw Kim Hyukjins face earlier, right?


    I did.


    But do you remember what he looked like?


    ...


    Thomas instantly stiffened. He tried recalling the mans face, but was unable to.


    Is this the ability Guildmaster Song Kiyeol exined to me?


    It was called Cognitive Dissonance.


    I really cant remember him.


    It felt like he was trying to peer through hazy white fog.


    Thats Kim Hyukjins power. Hese this far while thoroughly cloaking himself. A person like that confidently stepped forward into the spotlight. It must be a reflection of his confidence in being able to pull the wool over the eyes of all the top Rankers.


    Michelle. Do you think that, too?


    Yeah. If Im right, none of the Rankers remember Kim Hyukjin.


    Cognitive Dissonance. And Trickery.


    I also used [Sovereigns Speech].


    Sovereigns Speech was Michelles sovereign-exclusive skill to arouse a strange sense of trust towards the speaker in the listener. It also had a buff effect in battle, but when used outside of battle, it just had the effect of instilling trust.


    All three abilities hade together to create the current situation. Michelle was certain of it.


    Not a single person who was there will remember Kim Hyukjin. We may have made an enemy of Xu Xin, but we gained an ally named Kim Hyukjin. A trade-off I think is fully worth the investment.


    Thomas nodded after a long period of thought. Weve turned Xu Xin into an enemy, but raised your prestige. Thats fine, for now.


    He decided to respect Michelles decision. He added one more thing.


    If everything you say is true just what kind of person is this Kim Hyukjin guy you hold in such high regard?


    * * *


    * * *


    Song Jinchul became triumphant.


    I think theres no doubt Im the winner of this bet, Hyung.


    Well have to wait and see.


    Song Kiyeol had spent $4.5 million to buy three items. Their bet was based on return rate, so despite Xu Xins constant interference putting a wrench in his ns, Song Kiyeol hadnt lost yet.


    Well, who cares about the bet? That bastard Kim Hyukjins a cripple now.


    Jinchul chortled with glee. He seemed to be in a very good mood.


    Haa.


    Kiyeol was left wondering when he should set his crooked brother straight and make a decent person out of him. Kiyeol was letting his brother be at Kim Hyukjins behest, but thinking about the youngest member of the Song family made theing days feel dark.


    Hyung. I can go out to y, right?


    Yeah. Take the guards.


    Okay!


    Jinchul went out in excitement, only to pop back in shortly afterwards.


    Right, Hyung. Kim Hyukjin. Now that hes all powerless, Im gonna stomp him, kay?


    ...


    Kiyeol didnt respond. His pitiful little brother seemed to really think Kim Hyukjin had been dewed. How naive.


    Hyukjin told me to let him be, so


    He didnt bother correcting Jinchuls misunderstanding.


    Im going for real this time! Ill be back!


    Left alone in the room, Song Kiyeol thought back to the contents of the precognitive notes that had disappeared.


    <em>The true seer shall be bound.</em>


    Was the true seer truly Kim Hyukjin? Looking back, that seemed right. His knowledge of the future was more urate than any other oracle. He handled every situation like he knew exactly what would happen and yed as if there was nothing he didnt know.


    <em>In his bindings, shall he lose all power.</em>


    He was indeed bound. Handcuffs had been put over his wrists. And the lose all power part was correct as well.


    It was announced that he lost all his power.


    Michelle had announced that, and the Rankers believed it. It was likely none of those people even knew the name Kim Hyukjin. They would probably just remember that an unfortunate incident ured to the Taeguk Shield attendant.


    <em>The ignorant masses shall be tricked by the devils voice.</em>


    The ignorant masses probably referred to the yers who were there. Then what was the devils voice? It gave a chilling impression.


    The devils voice.


    If the devil here was Kim Hyukjin, then was the true seer a devil? Song Kiyeol, who didnt know about the Whispering Devil, couldnt reach the correct conclusion.


    I have no idea.


    In any case, the incident was a definite confirmation of Ham Sohyuns precognitive ability. So what could thest note, the one that had appeared after all the other letters had disappeared, possibly mean?


    <em>The Sovereign of Incantations will head skyward.</em>


    Song Kiyeols night of pensive thinking stretched on. He suddenly became curious.


    I wonder what kind of items Guildmaster Kim stoI mean, secured?


    * * *


    Kim Hyukjin lounged in the ne he was getting chased out in. For the sake of giving Michelle face, he chose to take a troublesome ne ride instead of going back by teleport gate.


    In exchange, he rode First ss. It was extremelyfortable. His first ever First ss experience made him feel like a bed had been moved onto the ne.


    A flight attendant approached him and asked with a friendly smile, Which wine would you like, sir?


    ...


    Hyukjin didnt answer. No, he <em>couldnt </em>answer.


    No wine, thank you.


    Very well. If there is anything you require, please tell us at any time. We will serve you with the greatest care.


    He didnt have the time to chat with the flight attendanta new notice hade in.<blockquote>


    [The growth requirements of the special ability Cognitive Dissonance have been met.]</blockquote>


    He used Cognitive Dissonance inbination with the tool called Michelle to trick countless Rankers. Their cognitive abilities were skewed, and the distortion was perpetuated in countless members of the public via articles produced by the media. That was the requirement the ability needed in order to grow.<blockquote>


    [The special ability Cognitive Dissonance will be assimted into the innate ability Eye of Perception.]


    [The innate ability Eye of Perception is enhanced by absorbing the Cognitive Dissonance ability.]


    [The current proficiency of Eye of Perception is 2.]


    [An additional trait has been added to Eye of Perception.]</blockquote><blockquote>


    6. Traits:<ol><li>


    Distinguish between Awakened and Unawakened</li><li>


    Read Status Windows</li><li>


    Sense danger</li><li>


    Resistance towards illusory attacks or apparition magic</li><li>


    Activation of Cognitive Dissonance at will and Cognitive Dissonance Dispel</li></ol></blockquote>


    He could freely wield Cognitive Dissonance while using Eye of Perception. In addition


    Cognitive Dissonance Dispel?


    If someone else used Cognitive Dissonance, he could now see through it.


    Makes sense. I cant be the only person who can use Cognitive Dissonance.


    He believed a time woulde for this ability to shine. Hyukjin just didnt know that time would be directly after he got off the ne.


    At the arrivals gate, he was surprised to find his two sisters, Kim Ahyoung and Kim Sunhwa, waiting for him.


    Huh?


    The ability he had gained inside the ne, Cognitive Dissonance Dispel, automatically activated.<blockquote>


    [Confirming the presence of the Cognitive Dissonance authority.]


    [Eye of Perception dispels the Cognitive Dissonance authority.]</blockquote>


    The person who had Cognitive Dissonance active, and had always had it active without a single soul realizing was none other than his enthusiastically waving little sister Sunhwa.


    * * *


    In front of the arrivals gate, Kim Hyukjin sensed the Cognitive Dissonance surrounding Kim Sunhwa and pretended to not notice it.


    Howd you know I wasing? he asked.


    Guildmaster Song contacted us, saying you would being by ne.


    Did he?


    Sunhwa was one thing. He turned and looked at the person standing next to her. Ahyoungs face reddened.


    I only came because Sunhwa kept begging me to.


    But I didnt say anything.


    Anyway, its not that I came to greet you or anything.


    Got it, but thanks foring over anyway.


    Sunhwa beamed. She tugged the hem of Hyukjins clothes.


    Lets go. Mr. Driver is waiting outside.


    Alright.


    Hyukjin left the airport with his sisters. Waiting outside was the chauffeur Song Kiyeol had assigned him.


    Noona and Sunhwa, get in the back.


    Sunhwa and Ahyoung got into the rear of the 4-seater luxury sedan, and Hyukjin got into the passenger seat.


    Setting off now, said the driver.


    The car with three family members in it began heading to the DMC Riverview Xi. Hyukjin nced stealthily at Sunhwa via the rearview mirror.


    Since when?


    Since when had Sunhwas Cognitive Dissonance been active?


    And what?


    What perception was being distorted?


    The fact that my Eye of Perception and Observers Eye didnt catch it at all means its just that high in grade.


    It was only due to Eye of Perception being strengthened by its fusion with Cognitive Dissonance that he was able to see it. Before that, he hadnt noticed at all.


    Its not her own ability.


    Sunhwa wasnt doing it.


    Which means


    That left one option.


    Her Streamer?


    That moment, a shiver ran down Hyukjins spine.


    Come to think of it who is Sunhwas Streamer?


    Everyone in Giantgod had Intermediate Administrators they had signed exclusive contracts with. But Sunhwas Intermediate Administrator hadnt shown themselves even once.


    None of us found that odd.


    Not a single one of them had ever asked who Sunhwas Intermediate Administrator was.


    Whats Sunhwas ss again?


    She was a genius tank. That was what everyone in Giantgod thought. But what exactly was her ss actual name?


    I dont know what Sunhwas ss is.


    He had checked Sunhwa multiple times with Eye of Perception. But he couldnt remember her ss name. And that was because the phenomenon of cognitive distortion was in effect.


    I always get sleepy in the car, Sunhwa yawned, slumping over and using Ahyoungs knee as a pillow. Ahyoung stared out the window as if she didnt care about Sunhwa.


    Sleepy.


    Sunhwa quickly fell asleep. After gently brushing away the hair that had fallen over Sunhwas face, Ahyoung returned to staring out the window.


    Im sleepy too, Hyukjin said, closing his eyes. He wasnt actually sleepy.


    What could it be?


    He thought hard, and before he knew it, the car reached the underground parking lot.


    Weve arrived.


    Thank you.


    The three Kims got out of the car. The now-awake Sunhwa energetically set off at a dash. She made a beeline for the door connected to their house, saying she wanted to be the one to punch in the code.


    Me! Me! Me! I wanna put in the password!


    She punched in the numbers, squinting with concentration. Hyukjin stared right at Sunhwas back.


    Darn! Wrong password. I messed up.


    Sunhwa put in the password again. As Hyukjin watched her back, he opened his mouth.


    But you know


    What?


    Sunhwa looked back. Hyukjin stared at her.


    Who are you?


    Huh?


    Hyukjin had once asked Sunhwa the same question.


    <em>Who are you?</em>


    At that question, Sunhwas body had twisted unnaturally, producing a strange cry. Hyukjin remembered that time again.


    <em>Ill ask again. Who are you?</em>


    When he asked again, Sunhwa had only shrieked, incapable of responding.


    I thought it was just a side effect of descent.


    At that time, Hyukjin had drawn on Jacksons theory.


    <em>There are times when temporary symptoms simr to possession show up due to a Guardians descent. It has only been observed a few times on a global scale, and is said to disappear naturally on its own with time.</em>


    Which was why he thought it was a temporary side effect of descent.


    No.


    It didnt seem like that was just a side effect.

 Chapter 225

    Chapter 225


    Sunhwa tilted her head.


    Huh? Oppa? Whats wrong?


    Are you Sunhwa right now?


    She beamed. Of course!


    Kim Ahyoung scowled, staring at Hyukjin. She stopped herself from asking what he was going on about. He didnt look like he was joking. Ahyoung held her silence, knowing her little brother wasnt the kind of person to spout nonsense.


    I do know the current you is Sunhwa.


    Come on, Oppa. What are you saying? Lets go eat chicken, chicken!


    Sunhwa clutched the hem of Hyukjins clothes. He only looked at her in silence, unmoving. After a long stare, he opened his mouth.


    Are you a casper?


    That moment, Sunhwas body flinched, and the surroundings began to freeze over. The parking lot ground and the opening car doors froze where they were. Ice crystals formed here and there.


    And that moment, a Pause took effect. The world turned ck and white.


    Pause?


    It was an expensive authority, and not one that wasnt casually used.


    Sunhwa said, Do you know me?


    I do. Youre an Intermediate Streamer. A casper.


    They were an astral body Intermediate Streamer. No one knew what they looked like, since they were astral beings that had no form.


    An Intermediate Administrator who streams by possessing a yer.


    That was why this kind of Intermediate Administrator wasmonly called a casper. They werentmon, but there were definitely caspers out there.


    But if its one that can produce this level of Cognitive Dissonance


    It was likely the most infamous variant of casper, a top level evil spirit casper. Mankind called such Intermediate Administrators devil caspers or devil Intermediate Administrators.


    So you know. Interesting. You saw through my Cognitive Dissonance?


    Some way or another.


    My my. Sunhwa put on a surprised face. Did something happen in the US server?


    ...


    I never imagined a beginner period yer would be able to see through my Cognitive Dissonance.


    The expression and gestures were all subtly different from Sunhwa.


    Ive been watching from the side, but youre really amazing. To the point that not being able to nab the exclusive contract with you is my eternal regret. How can a beginner period yer be like this?


    Sunhwa nced behind herself.


    Senia. Youre really lucky.


    There was no response to his words. From this, Hyukjin realized yet another factthe current Pause did not include other Intermediate Administrators, meaning Senia could watch.


    In any case, not much will change just because you found me out. You can carry on with your ying, and Sunhwa can carry on with hers. Okay?


    Those words sounded right on a superficial level. He nodded, but on the inside, he was thinking something else.


    Ill move with the assumption that hes a devil Intermediate Administrator.


    Caspers werent all bad. But there was a reason why some of them were called devils.


    Evil astrals that ultimately want to steal the yers body and participate in ying.


    After such astrals stole the yers bodies, they did whatever they pleased. It wasnt their body anyway, so they went all out extracting exciting content the Guardians would go wild for.


    That was how the Corpse Sorcerer Barteli died.


    Hyukjin had seen him in the auction hall.


    And


    Another of Koreas 8 Heroes


    The Enforcer of Commandments, Ban Kimyung.


    Barteli and Ban Kimyung had their bodies stolen by devil Intermediate Administrators and met early deaths. It was unsubstantiated, but there was also a rumor going around that the Astrologist Itachi also perished at the hands of a devil Intermediate Administrator.


    Im not strong enough to oppose this casper right now.


    Caspers would only start attempting to steal yer bodies when they were in the master period, which meant yers had to be at least that strong to satisfy caspers.


    Even if I cant do anything now


    He would be able toter. Hyukjin was sure of that. He thought back to how Sunhwa had so bravely protected him with her body in the Tutorial Field.


    In the blink of an eye, the girl returned to her usual self. She looked exactly the same, but her aura was ever so slightly different. The current Sunhwa was the real Sunhwa.


    As he looked at her, Hyukjin thought, This time, Ill protect you.


    He would make sure no damn casper stole her body. At least he knew about it now. He could prepare for the events of the future in advance.


    Me finding out about you is unrted to my ying.


    Kim Hyukjin, I just knew youd say that. You have amendable attitude for ying. Though it does make you look cold-blooded and emotionless.


    Sunhwa snickered. Hyukjin concealed his thoughtspletely.


    This child is a tank. All she needs to do is to fulfill her role as a tank.


    Thats right. Shes quite a genius in some aspects. A desirable yer.


    A desirable yer. Hyukjin heard that as a desirable body.


    I will protect you no matter what.


    * * *


    * * *


    After returning home, Hyukjin chuckled upon finding a Yellow Charm hidden under his desk. Apparently, his sister was still making them.


    She really cant hide her tsundere side.


    He sat at the desk and called someone.


    Mr. Kim Hyukjin?


    Hyukjin was nning on getting Senia to trante if necessary, but as expected of apetent info merchant, Pietro had a Trantion Marble.


    Hyukjin said, Yes. Theres something you want to ask me, right?


    The person who called was actually Hyukjinhe had business to discuss. He wanted to ask about the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate, but he didnt bring it up himself. Instead of being the one to take the bait, he lured the other party into biting. Sure enough, Pietro jumped at the lure.


    I heard something big happened in the LA Auction House.


    The rumors have spread that fast?


    I am an information merchant who deals in information, after all.


    Will it also be known around the world?


    Most likely not, I think.


    The auction itself was held in secret, with only top Rankers and world-famous wealthy individuals taking part. It wasnt publicized.


    But Rankers have heard of it through the grapevine.


    I suppose people think my limbs were broken and I waspletely deprived of my strength as a yer?


    Unfortunately, I have heard that, yes. Your name isnt known, just that it was a Taeguk Shield attendant.


    A Taeguk Shield attendant participating in such an auction was a little strange, but everyone said the same thing, so Pietro could only believe it. However, the unnaturalness of the situation didnt escape Pietro.


    Everything about it is odd, thought Pedro on the other side of the line.


    The man in question was supposed to be a Taeguk Shield attendant, but no one remembered his face. Even his name wasnt known. On top of that, his existence was overshadowed by Xu Xin being deprived of his yer rights, so no one paid any heed to the attendant. He became someone who no one paid attention to.


    As if someone had intentionally made it that way.


    I have a gut feeling.


    It was strange. There was a secret to be uncovered.


    If I may ask are you in good health?


    Im in extremely good condition. Of course, my abilities as a yer are entirely intact.


    Pietro let out an unconscious cry of surprise.


    Then that means Michelle and Kim Hyukjin worked together to trick the other Rankers.


    The situation yed out in Pietros head. He pieced it all together from a single clue.


    They used an ability capable of fooling the others, and the two made a deal in secret. And in time, the Rankers will forget the attendant ever existed.


    Pietro didnt know what deal the two made, but even so, he was forced to renew his assessment of Kim Hyukjin.


    Michelle, the person who really did destroy Xu Xins ability to y, conceded to Kim Hyukjin.


    What did that mean?


    It must be because Kim Hyukjin is far more dangerous than Xu Xin.


    The sovereign Michelle judged that it was better to have Hyukjin as an ally, even at the cost of making an enemy of Xu Xin. Pietro was quick on the uptake.


    Looks like I need to keep this a secret. After all, that attendant who was destroyed by Michelle and the current Mr. Kim Hyukjin arepletely different people. I dont know the old Kim Hyukjin. Nice to meet you, Mr. Kim Hyukjin.


    Hyukjin grinned. Pietro was quick to understand. Hyukjin had given him some personal information. Since give and take was standard between information merchants, it was now time for Hyukjin to ask a question.


    Youre still gathering raiders for the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate, correct?


    Yes.


    Pietro answered without hiding it. He had gotten information, so it was only right for him to offer information of equivalent value.


    May I also participate?


    You?


    Yes. Ive developed an interest in the gate.


    I would wee a skilled yer such as yourself anytime. But theres a small problem.


    What kind of problem?


    I think I will be able to open the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate soon, but entry is restricted to yers with archery-rted sses or yers who have absorbed a Tome of the Divine Bow Physique. Or people with the key, like me.


    Pietro originally thought Hyukjin was an archer. But it turned out that he was just a sovereign who was good with the bow. In any case, it meant his ss was sovereign.


    In that case, it shouldnt be much of a problem.


    Arent you a sovereign, Mr. Kim Hyukjin?


    I am.


    Pietro thought for a moment.


    Can it be that you have absorbed a Tome of the Divine Bow Physique?


    No.


    Not yet, but he nned on doing it soon.


    Then how do you n on entering?


    I think thats for me to figure out. May I bring a few people with me?


    How many?


    Two.


    May I ask who they are?


    Mark from the Michelle Division. And Koreas Hyun Junghwa.


    The deal Hyukjin and Hyun Junghwa made was for her participation in the Gardens by the Bay Dungeon and the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon. Even so, Hyukjin was certain she would agree to join the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate raid with him. If she didnt, he could make it so she would. That was Hyukjins strength.


    The line went silent.


    Whats wrong? Are they not okay?


    N-No, not at all. The Dewinged Angel Statue Gate raid will take ce in one week.


    Pietro hung up.


    Hoo.


    He took a deep breath, leaning all the way back in his chair like a limp ragdoll.


    Kim Hyukjin. Just what the hell is he?


    On his desk was a list of archers who had refused him. First on the list was Hyun Junghwa, and second was Mark. Both had refused his proposal.


    How did he convince them to join?


    Pietro began to suspect Hyukjin had some kind of powerful card that could tempt an archer. He wanted to know what that was. That knowledge would give him a lot of sway with archers moving forward.


    What could it be?


    He had no idea.


    I want to know.


    On the other side of the world, Kim Hyukjin made another call directly after hanging up with Pietro.


    Ms. Hyun Junghwa. Lets do a raid together. Its a new gate.


    They had no prior arrangement, and he had nothing in particr to offer her. He simply nned on convincing her now.


    Very well. Im looking forward to learning from you.


    Convincing her was very easy.


    Two days passed.


    Having returned from the auction, Song Kiyeol went personally to Kim Hyukjins house. To Hyukjins amusement, the spoiled brat Song Jinchul was with him.


    A spirited voice came from the other side of the door.


    Oi. Open up.


    Hyukjin opened the door to find a helpless-looking Song Kiyeol and a confident-looking Song Jinchul.

 Chapter 226

    Chapter 226


    In all actuality, Song Kiyeol was unable to render a good performance at the auction. Xu Xins active interference made it so he only managed to score 3 items with a total of $4.5 million spent.


    <em>You will earn at least $7 million even with what youve already purchased.</em>


    That was what Kim Hyukjin had told him. But what Hyukjin meant by $7 million was a little different from what Song Kiyeol thought.


    Not $7 million <em>total</em>


    But $7 million <em>each.</em> And the buyer hade just yesterday. A person who introduced himself as an American investor showed up out of nowhere and asked to buy each item for $7 million, almost like it was scripted. It just happened, and Kiyeol was left feeling somewhat bamboozled.


    To think they were worth $7 million each.


    It seemed he had underestimated Kim Hyukjins audacity. He was definitely not from a chaebol family, yet his thoughts were on a scale that utterly shocked a chaebol scion.


    In any case, Kiyeol bought the items for $4.5 million and sold them for $21 million, raking in a $16.5 million profit in just 20 hours for a tidy earnings rate of $825k per hour.


    Even his baby brother Song Jinchul had no choice but to acknowledge Kiyeols overwhelming win. Jinchul lost the bet, but he was happy that Kim Hyukjin was now powerless. Despite allegedlying to apologize, he was clearly in high spirits.


    Hyukjin raised a finger.


    Take one hit.


    The older brother Song Kiyeol squeezed his eyes shut.


    Its time.


    What was toe hade. Hyukjins index finger flicked Jinchuls forehead. He didnt even put much force in it, but Jinchul fell over with a shriek of pain and iled on the ground.


    Ow ow ow!


    Without even ncing at his little brother, Kiyeol scolded, Dont be so dramatic. Then, he said to Kim Hyukjin, You can hit him a little more.


    Well, my pet will do that for me.


    The squirrel on Hyukjins shoulder scrambled down and kicked the kid on the ground. It didnt look all that painful.


    Hyukjin still saw it.<blockquote>


    [A factor in a major variable.]</blockquote>


    It meant this kid had created some kind of major variable. He would probably find out what that was when his Eye of Perception or Observers Eye proficiency increased.


    I told you not to cross the line, Hyukjin said.


    N-Ngh!


    Want another hit? Didnt youe here to apologize?


    When he raised his index finger again, Song Jinchul scrambled to get on his knees.


    I-I was wrong!


    He looked well and truly frightened. Upon realizing his own disgraceful state, Jinchuls face reddened.


    Just what the hell is going on? He panicked. I thought he lost all his strength as a yer!


    And yet, Kim Hyukjin overpowered him with a single finger. And what was with that overwhelming aura? He hadnt felt so small even when he was crushed by fear due to Mettle before.


    Ive definitely grown a lot since then!


    But it didnt matter.


    Just how!


    Song Jinchulcked Pietros insight and simply sat there in confusion. Song Kiyeol hauled him to his feet.


    Apologize properly.


    Come in for now. Its cold outside.


    At Hyukjins invitation, the two brothers entered the home. Hyukjin took a seat on the living room sofa. The center of Jinchuls forehead was swelling to the size of a small ping pong ball.


    What, wasnt able to defeat your hyung with your Discernment ability?


    ...


    Jinchuls body quivered.


    Did Hyung tell you?


    Tell me what?


    That I have Discernment.


    You never told me that, interjected Kiyeol.


    ...


    Jinchuls face reddened. Then how does <em>he </em>know?


    I dont know that either.


    Some guy took a peek at your little brothers ability and youre not mad?


    As expected of an 8th grader, he wasnt able to conceal his emotions.<blockquote>


    Summary: Self-Proimed Chosen One who has Taken a Huge Blow to his Pride</blockquote>


    His pride was as bruised as a fallen peach. Still, a promise was a promise.


    Song Kiyeol urged, Not going to apologize?


    But


    Save the buts. If youre not going to apologize, I cant take responsibility for whatll happen next.


    A little time passed. Jinchul brought his head down low.


    ...ize.


    What did you say?


    ...logize.


    The first part of I apologize was mumbled too quickly. Kiyeol coaxed him. Say it properly.


    ...I apologize.


    Hyukjin shrugged. In the end, this willful brat lowered his head and said sorry.


    I dont usually ept empty apologies.


    ...


    But Ill let it go for today.


    Jinchul was a factor in a major variable. Until Hyukjin knew what that was, it was probably best to leave him as he was.


    So? Did youe here just to apologize? asked Hyukjin.


    Ah, not just that


    Song Kiyeol took out an item from his Inventory. Hyukjin recognized it.


    The Ink Bow.


    It couldnt quite be called an incredible artifact, but it was a ck bow widely used through the intermediate period. Though it was a little on the heavy side, archers who had invested in their Strength could easily use it. Its damage and consecutive firing speed were fairly high.


    In the past, the Master Pedro once said this about the Ink Bow:


    <em>The Ink Bow appears to have a hidden secret. I am working to uncover that secret, but I havent been sessful yet.</em>


    In the end, he was unable to figure it out.


    In any case, its a rare item in the current period.


    Hyukjin took it.


    Hm?


    The bow responded to his touch. From observing it with Observers Eye, it seemed the bow was reacting to some kind of strength Hyukjin possessed.


    This feeling is With some concentration, he figured it out. I think its responding to my fire ki.


    He didnt know exactly. How the Ink Bow was rted to fire ki would take a little more investigation.


    Its a good item.


    Yes. I procured it with difficulty from the US.


    Thank you. Its a good gift.


    Just then, Hyukjins mother came back from visiting a friend. Lee Soohyun walked into the room.


    Goodness, who do we have here? Are you friends of Hyukjin?


    Soohyun didnt recognize the very famous Taeguk Shield guildmaster despite his many appearances on TV.


    H-Hello.


    Song Kiyeol looked towards Kim Hyukjin, seemingly asking, Can I pretend to be your friend? with his eyes. Hyukjin gave a brisk nod.


    Oh dear, just look at how harebrained I am. Ill at least cut you some fruit. Sit, sit. Hyukjin, you shouldve offered your guests something!


    Laughing merrily, Soohyun ran off to the kitchen. Her son who didnt have many friends had finally brought one home, an event that made her feel very happy.


    The more friends you have, the better. Here, here. Eat up.


    She handed Song Kiyeol a fork with a slice of apple on it. He took it politely with an awkward smile.


    Ah. Thank you for the food, maam.


    I never thought our Hyukjin would bring friends home one day. What a rare urrence. But howe I feel like Ive seen you somewhere?


    Song Kiyeol was pretty good at acting. He didnt quite understand why he had to act, but he did so anyway, fearing that breaking the news that he was a business partner and not a friend would disappoint Hyukjins mom, which would in turn earn Hyukjins ire.


    It must be because I have a somewhatmon face. He even threw in some ttery. I see that Hyukjin is handsome because he takes after you.


    Soohyunughed with an, Oh please, our son isnt that handsome! But she didnt seem that displeased. On the contrary, she was very excited. A smile floated to Hyukjins lips as he watched his happy mother. If he were to point out the best thing since returning to the past, it would be that he had his family with him, people who would rejoice with him and be sad with him over the smallest things.


    How did you get to know Hyukjin? I dont think Ive ever seen you.


    Song Kiyeol was quick on his feet. We met over mutual friends and ended up bing friends, haha! Hahaha!


    Goodness, so thats how it is. Please get along with Hyukjin. He looks normal, but he doesnt have many friends and doesnt have a girlfriend. Its quite troubling.


    I will do my best to cherish our friendship, maam.


    Song Kiyeol forked a slice of apple and offered it to Lee Soohyun in a show of deep courtesy.


    Please have a piece as well, maam. Next time, I wille bearing a gift.


    The guildmaster of Koreas number 1 guild became extremely humble before Lee Soohyun. He almost looked like a new hire wagging his tail at his boss at an after-work party.


    Hyukjin ate an apple slice.


    This is a good feeling.


    Song Kiyeol had earned a few points in Hyukjins book today. And looking at Hyukjins easy smile, Song Kiyeol was sure of one thing.


    This is more effective than the Ink Bow.


    It seemed he would have to treat Mama Hyukjin well. The third gen chaebol Song Kiyeol realized exactly who he needed to tter.


    * * *


    * * *


    On the ride back home, Jinchul bit his lips.


    Why were you buttering up that auntie so much, Hyung?


    Watch what you say.


    Youre a chosen one, Hyung. So why are you acting like a eunuch to thatmoner auntie?


    Jinchuls pride was once again painfully stubbed today.


    Song Jinchul. This is myst warning.


    ...


    Kiyeol would have liked his baby brother to at least realize why Michelle went so far as to lie to side with Guildmaster Kim Hyukjin. But unfortunately, his baby brother couldnt understand his feelings at all. Put simply, he was too dumb.


    Think hard on why Michelle acted the way she did and why Im acting the way I am.


    ...


    Did you hear me?


    ...I heard you, Jinchul said in a small voice. His big brother usually didnt get mad. Jinchul knew that very well. His brother was currently on the verge of getting very angry, so he shut his mouth.


    Dammit.


    Ever since this Kim Hyukjin bastard showed up, nothing seemed to go right. Grandpa also seemed to be fixated on Kim Hyukjin. There had to be some kind of reason why even his grandfather was paying so much attention to Kim Hyukjin, but the 8th grader Song Jinchul was unable to deduce that much.


    He even saw that I have Discernment.


    Kim Hyukjin did indeed have special eyes.


    Which makes this bet a scam.


    That bastard went into the bet with eyes like that. Jinchul wanted toin to his brother, but he was unable to. He did apologize to Kim Hyukjin, but it wasnt sincere.


    One day, Ill crush him no matter what.


    He resolved to do so in his heart, unaware that Kim Hyukjin had read him like an open book.


    Hell definitely act up one day. Dont you think, Kim Darong?


    Hyukjin was now in the habit of calling Darongi Kim Darong as well. Darongi was putting out [] notes as he nibbled an acorn on top of Hyukjins shoulder.


    I bet his pride got real beat up today, and that hell get punished by his brother. And that brother of his will wag his tail at Mom again. How angry do you think thatll make him? Itll drive him nuts, right?<blockquote>


    []</blockquote>


    A spoiled brat should grow up like a spoiled brat.


    He wanted to know what that factor in a major variable was. The strange sensation of the world distorting all around the unaffected Song Jinchul was still vivid in his mind.<blockquote>


    []</blockquote>


    Hell be itching to crush me.


    An elementary school kid brandishing a stic knife wasnt at all threatening. That was exactly how Hyukjin saw Song Jinch weak opponent he could y with, but had no reason to seriously fight. So he decided to keep watching, watching to see just how that factor in a major variable would grow.


    Some time passed.


    <em>Knock knock.</em>


    Oppa, Im here. Having just returned from a short trip out of the house with Ahyoung, Sunhwa chirped, Lets go!


    Alright.


    Hyukjin got up. There was some preparation to do before he went into the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate.

 Chapter 227

    Chapter 227


    Sunhwa was very happy.


    Its fun to go shopping with you!


    Is it?


    Didnt you also ask me toe with you because its fun to go shopping with me?


    Hyukjin just chuckled.


    I brought you because youre strong and have good stamina.


    He kept those words to himself. It was true he was bringing Sunhwa along because of her strength and stamina, but he didnt want to shatter her fantasy. Being 14 must be a happy time. It had been too long since he was 14, so he didnt remember how it was.


    Take this for now.


    What is this?


    Infinite Pouch.


    Ah! That thing you stole from that baddie named Xu Xin?


    It wasnt just the Infinite Pouch.


    The Bucket Scrap.


    The Old Book - Elegy.


    The Stuttgar Bottle.


    And more.


    He had fished a total of nine items from Xu Xins Inventory, each and every one worth several hundred thousand dors. The cheapest of them, the Bucket Scrap, was worth about $300k (by future standards, of course).


    The most important thing was the Fountain Pen of Freedom, the item where only the destroyer of the Gray-Ringed Clear Crystal could activate the description. But it didnt seem like that was the only required condition.


    [The 1st condition has been fulfilled.]


    [Another condition must be fulfilled.]


    [The other condition can be gained through the quest War Between Sky and Ground.]


    The item was wrapped in severalyers of security. The amusing thing was that Hyukjin already knew about the War Between Sky and Ground.


    Pietro had once said this:


    <em>The War Between Sky and Ground is a quest closely linked to the Dewinged Angel Statue. In the War Between Sky and Ground, wethe Kin of the Groundexpected to be victorious. Up until that betrayed us at the veryst moment.</em>


    That was the tragedy where half of the Ranker-level archers were wiped out. Even though it had happened overseas, Hyukjin knew of it in rtive detail.


    The War Between Sky and Ground scenario will soon begin.


    And it would happen in Italy. Hyukjin passed the Infinite Pouch to Sunhwa.


    Were going to buy a lot of stuff and put it in here. Take it.


    Its kinda heavy.


    Yeah.


    They would fill it to the brim with provisions and blunt weapons, to the point that it would be very ufortable to lug around if you didnt have Sunhwas level of physical prowess and stamina.


    Since its an Infinite Pouch, can you put infinite stuff in there?


    It should fit a ton of stuff.


    Sunhwa caught on. Are you bringing me along to be your packhorse?


    Despite being the same age as Song Jinchul, she was very perceptive. Sunhwa pouted her lips a little.


    Tch. Here I was, being happy for nothing.


    Well sorta. Its not the only reason. Well also go around the mall a bit.


    He wanted to do some preparation for clearing the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate. Sunhwas mouth opened wide.


    Whoa. Were going to the mall? Sunhwa got worked up at the mention of the mall. I thought the mall is somewhere only the super duper rich people go to!


    Of course that wasnt true, but apparently, the mall was that kind of ce for Sunhwa, who had once been so poor she couldnt even eat a single tonkatsu.


    Im rich.


    Yeah, but it doesnt really feel real.


    He grinned. When it came down to it, Sunhwa also had the ability to easily be very rich. But it seemed Sunhwa wasnt cognizant of that, nor did she seek wealth.


    I will be careful with the casper, Hyukjin thought while looking at his innocent sister.


    He would bide his time, growing a little stronger. He wouldnt let the happiness he had gained from returning to the past slip through his fingers. It might sound a little high-flown to say this, but he wanted to protect her the way she was now. Because she was family to him now.


    In order to protect my joys, I need power.


    Hyukjin moved forward.


    Lets go.


    But Sunhwa halted behind him.


    Oppa. Somethings in the Infinite Pouch! No wonder it was so heavy!


    Whats in there?


    A smile exploded onto Sunhwas face. Its money! Wow! Theres so much money!


    Her smile grew bigger, stretching from ear to ear.


    Im rich now! She giggled uncontrobly. How much is all this?!


    That day, Sunhwa became a very happy millionaire.


    Im RICH~!


    * * *


    * * *


    One week passed after that.


    The archers Pietro had recruited were waiting in the square in front of a famous tourist attraction of Italy, the Castel SantAngelo.


    The gate is opening here, right?


    Yeah.


    Whos gonna be the party leader?


    Pietro, but only temporarily. Once the clear really gets going, well pick a new one by voting.


    Thats unusual.


    It is, yeah.


    Normally, the party leader was chosen before going in. Amander and leader was necessary for clear efficiency. In that respect, Pietros decision was a little illogical.


    There must be some sort of reason behind it.


    Oh. Look over there.


    Someone pointed into the sky.


    Is it a monster?


    Everyone prepare for battle!


    Something appeared in the skyarge monster with the body of a lion and the face of an eagle. At the same time, the sculptures on the stone bridge connected to the Castel SantAngelo began to move, grating along the stone.


    [The main quest of the Ash-Covered Castle of Angels, the War Between Sky and Ground, has begun.]


    Like the Tutorial Field, the area was isted from its surroundings. Hyukjin looked up into the sky.


    Its the same as the past.


    The same scenario hade up in the past, but this time, there was the variable called Kim Hyukjin. Pietro also looked skyward.


    Kim Hyukjin was right.


    It would be more precise to say that Ham Sohyun, Koreas Precognitive Dreamer, was right.


    Ham Sohyuns precognitive ability, and Kim Hyukjins situational judgment


    How bright would they really shine?


    And


    Would it really go as Kim Hyukjin intended? Pietro decided to see for himself. If things went as Kim Hyukjin said they would, he could be a leader no one here would oppose.


    Just yesterday, Kim Hyukjin had told him, <em>I will be the party leader.</em>


    <em>There may be intense pushback.</em>


    <em>I know. Im too unknown. </em>Kim Hyukjin said firmly, <em>If things go as I say once the War Between Sky and Ground begins, I will be the party leader.</em>


    <em>Why do you want to be the party leader?</em>


    Didnt Kim Hyukjin normally dislike exposing himself?


    <em>Hard to say.</em>


    He responded like this:


    <em>I suppose I just dont want to see people die in the same party as me.</em>


    And thus, came this moment. For now, Kim Hyukjin was half right. Ham Sohyuns precognitive ability was precise. Pietro shivered.


    That Precognitive Dreamer is terrifying.


    Pietro was shocked that there was someone in Taeguk Shield capable of such a precise precognitive dream. He was once again reminded of the might of Koreas representative guild, Taeguk Shield.


    [The main quest of the Ash-Covered Castle of Angels, the War Between Sky and Ground, has begun.]


    Pietro didnt get a precognitive note or anything. He was only told what Ham Sohyun said via Kim Hyukjin. Pietro stared at the Korean man.


    Even before this quest was triggered, he knew the location, as well as the name and the approximate details.


    Almost all of them had been correct. Just what kind of person was this Ham Sohyun? Just what kind of monsters were swarming in Korea?


    I need to study Korea more.


    An Irregr of unimaginable proportions called Kim Hyukjin was in Korea, something Michelle acknowledged as well. She took Kim Hyukjins side, going as far as to scam other Rankers to do so. Kim Hyukjin was already overwhelming, yet there was even a monster like Ham Sohyun. It was enough to make Pietro reassess Korea altogether.


    I heard the average level of yers there isnt all that outstanding, but


    That was just the average level. It was a whole nother story when it came to the top yers. The top yers would end up leading the world anyway. In that regard, Korea had terrifyingly high potential.


    Looks like Ill need to visit Korea in person.


    * * *


    <em>One day before.</em>


    After arriving in Italy, Hyukjin called Song Kiyeol.


    <em>May I sell Miss Ham Sohyuns name a little?</em>


    <em>Miss Ham Sohyun?</em>


    <em>I know the rough details about the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate. Thanks to my special eyes.</em>


    To be honest, it was because he was a regressor.


    <em>But I dont have a convincing justification for my knowledge.</em>


    <em>Understood.</em>


    Song Kiyeol gave his permission. In fact, there was nothing to deliberate. This was an opportunity for Ham Sohyun. The archers Pietro had gathered from all over the world were cream of the crop in the archer ss. They were all people with significant influence in one part of society, whether big or small. Spreading Ham Sohyuns name among them was a good opportunity.


    Song Kiyeol made a proposal.


    <em>For it to make most sense, I think it would be best to say you are a guild member of Taeguk Shield.</em>


    Hyukjin grinned. Apparently, Song Kiyeol wanted to use this chance to publicly state that an archer named Kim Hyukjin was a part of Taeguk Shield.


    <em>Thats a good idea.</em>


    Hyukjin didnt have much to lose from the proposal. Thus, the deal between the two was established. Ham Sohyun, of course, gave her enthusiastic consent.


    And one dayter, at the point during which Kim Hyukjin was participating in the War Between Sky and Ground, Ham Sohyun sought out her guildmaster.


    Guildmaster Song.


    Yes?


    Would it be at all possible for me to meet that person?


    You mean Kim Hyukjin?


    Yes.


    Howe?


    After a moment of thought, Ham Sohyun said, I have a lot of precognitive dreams. But the scenes are only clear when I have dreams rted to him, and I can also write an extremely concrete precognitive note.


    ...


    Thats why Im curious. Just who is he, to make me have such a powerful precognitive dream?


    Is there some reason why you have powerful precognitive dreams about him?


    ying could not be exined by science. Oftentimes, some things could only be exined by the yers sense of how it was, just like now. Ham Sohyun exined the reason she hade up with.


    The future is continually changed by many factors. Almost like a living creature.


    Right.


    Even the tiniest variable could greatly change the future. Song Kiyeol was well aware of that, too.


    If a precognitive dream has a clear future


    Then it must mean there arent many variables, Song Kiyeol finished.


    Yes, said Ham Sohyun. A future with markedly fewer variables. A future that seldom changes. That is what I see.


    Youre saying thats how it is when you have a dream rted to Kim Hyukjin, correct?


    Yes. I think we can interpret this as Guildmaster Kim Hyukjin being a factor of such powerful immutability that he isnt shaken by minor variables. Ham Sohyuns expression became a little more serious. And the really important thing is


    Ham Sohyun was lying in the VIP hospital room that had been set up in the Taeguk Shield HQ, paralyzed and almostpletely incapable of moving her body. She briefly closed her eyes.


    As you know, Guildmaster Song, Precognitive Dream is a terribly ambiguous ability, so its often not possible to know who youre dreaming about.


    Even for strong precognitive dreams that resulted in a precognitive note, the notes were often discarded because the dreamer didnt know whose future it was.


    Song Kiyeol understood what Ham Sohyun was saying.


    Do you mean that if its a dream rted to Guildmaster Kim, you can clearly discern that its about him?


    Ham Sohyun gave a nod. That was the limit of her mobility. The movement was small, but that was the greatest agreement she could physically express.


    That person is special. Truly.


    She wanted to meet him at least once. Maybe if she met him, she would be able to see something else.


    Please let me meet him.


    * * *


    Meanwhile, Kim Hyukjin began participating in the War Between Sky and Ground.


    Lets get started, shall we?


    His goal wasnt just to kill the enemies.


    I will lead these guys.


    An opportunity tomand world-level Rankers like this was rare. It was a fairly good situation for an Observer like himself. Hyukjin ran through the n in his head.


    Okay.


    Just as he had always done.


    I will set the stage.


    He looked up at the monsters in the sky. The supporting actors were descending.

 Chapter 228

    Chapter 228


    The monsters that appeared in the sky had lion bodies and eagle heads.


    Its as Miss Ham Sohyun said.


    Monsters would descend from the sky, and they would be winged creatures with the bodies of a four-legged beast. That was exactly what was happening now. Of course, this prophecy was cobbled together by Kim Hyukjin based on his memory of the past.


    Yes. But lets save the amazement forter. The yers are shaken up.


    There were roughly thirty yers here, most of them archers. Some knew Hyukjin, and some didnt.


    Most of the people who survived this would be top Rankers. And half would die if the raid went as it had in Hyukjins past. Pietro took a step forward.


    The quests name is the War Between Sky and Earth.


    Monsters were descending from the sky, and the sculptures were moving on the ground. The eyes of the sculptures on the stone bridge glowed purple.


    Pietro continued speaking. We dont know how to clear this quest. Weck an outstanding sovereign, and we dont have an explorer, either.


    Of course, there <em>were </em>sovereigns here. One was Kim Hyukjin, and the other was Schultz, a dual-ss yer from Germany whose main ss was archer and subss was sovereign.


    However, we have a prophecy from Taeguk Shield foreseeing this situation. Based on that information, we need to take the sculptures side in this war. I believe this information to be considerably reliable. I think it would be best to progress by hunting the monsters in the sky.


    This wasing from the information merchant Pietro. His words had sway. The archers peered up into the sky.


    Gryphon LVL 36


    Flying creatures were tricky foes, but the monsters weren''t so strong that they couldn''t be defeated. Pietro quickly continued.


    Because a new quest was triggered even before the gate opened, we didnt have a chance to assign a party leader who will represent and lead us.


    There needed to be a party leader to take the reins anyway. Hyukjin knew who the original party leader wasthe German yer, Schultz.


    In the past, Pietro said this:


    <em>Schultz was an outstanding yer. If he had survived that ce, he may have developed into a yer who could stand shoulder to shoulder with Michelle and Salvatore.</em>


    Schultz was supposed to die here. He took responsibility for his decisions and bravely perished while silently helping the other yers escape. Everyone who survived the gate expressed their admiration for Schultz.


    A person who takes responsibility for his decisions.


    That was what Hyukjin knew about Schultz.


    As the person with the most information, I will temporarily assume party lead, said Pietro. I think we should pick the party leader once this quest is over.


    There was no time to say more. The Gryphons circling in the sky were ready to plunge and were spewing bloodthirst towards the earth.


    ording to my information, we belong to the earth. We need to fight the enemies that belong to the sky. At least in this field.


    The archers agreed with him. They believed Pietro was naturally the most informed person here and decided to follow his instructions.


    Everyone took out their bows. The arms of the sculptures on the bridge moved. Stones made of mana formed on their palms, and then, they hurled the stones like they were catapults.


    <em>Whumpf!</em>


    The stones hurtled into the sky. One of the Gryphons was struck by the barrage.


    <em>Kwak!</em>


    The Gryphon squawked with rage and plunged downwards.


    Fire!


    The archers fired in unison. No one used shy skills or powerful attacksthey all used basic attacks.


    Hyukjin liked what he saw.


    Theyre definitely Ranker quality.


    They intentionally usedpact and easy attacks so as to not interfere with each others trajectories. Even with just basic attacks, the yers would have no problem blocking a single assant.


    Normally, that is.


    <em>If </em>that monster wasnt a Gryphon.


    But Gryphons were monsters with a special barrier that blocked normal attacks. Only attacks imbued with mana could deal damage to them.


    The yers will quickly realize that.


    If they couldnt even figure that out, they werent Ranker material.


    I know theyll quickly catch on, but


    Even so, Hyukjin intended on taking action here, with the goal of assuming party leadership for this raid. Schultz was an admirable yer, but in the end, the raid was defeated under his leadership, with nearly half of the yers killed.


    That might not change even if I lead.


    But he was still fairly confident. Hyukjin was armed with knowledge of the future and was stronger than the others. Half of the yers may have died in the past, but that also meant half had survived even without Hyukjins presence.


    This time a regressor is here.


    That alone meant they would be able to pull off a far better clear than in the past.


    Most importantly, I have the [Angel Statues Wings].


    In his Inventory was the item he had gotten by clearing the Wind Temple with Hyun Junghwa, an item he was certain would y a key role in this gate.


    I will save who I can save and get everything I can get.


    That was why he was here.


    [Using the special skill sh Step.]


    Thanks to the Grudge Inmyeonjo, he already had experience facing a flying monster. It was a lot easier this time. Hyukjin rushed forward with sh Step,nding on the Gryphons neck and plunging his sword directly in the Gryphons skull.


    <em>Splurt!</em>


    His transcendent sword went in like a hot knife through butter. The Gryphon crashed onto the ground, briefly thrashing before dying with a body full of arrows.


    In this gathering of archers, Hyukjin purposely showed a shocking technique like sh Step and killed a Gryphon using a sword.


    Im sure that got their attention.


    Hyukjin didnt have any fame to his name. If he wanted these people to obey and follow him, his only choice was to prove his skill. So for starters, he drew their attention.


    And then, he gave the signal.


    Junghwa. Mark. Hyun Junghwa and Mark were standing behind him. Cover me.


    Okay.


    Understood.


    * * *


    * * *


    Now that Hyukjin had their eyes, he needed to begin the real work. He had to produce a scene impressive enough to garner the heartfelt acknowledgement of top Rankers in the archer ss.


    Ive produced plenty of scenes for the Guardians.


    Producing scenes for yers was even easier. Hyukjin pulled out the Ink Bow.


    Hyukjin knew Ahn Seohyes altered incantation, the incantation uttered not to protect and revive, but to destroy and eliminate. They were the words Seohye had unconsciously manifested in the past.


    The incantation uttered by a Barrier Magician resolved to martyr.


    She subtly changed the Incantation of Salvation conceived by Hyukjin, deploying her Nemesis Doom Barrier with all her soul and might in order to kill the Fire Giants.


    Its the perfect incantation for the current situation.


    Hyukjin kicked off his productionone made for Rankers and not for Guardianswith that incantation. His eyes turned crimson red.


    On the other side of the world, at the DMC Riverview Xi, the Guardian Tower Ahn Seohye standing in the middle of the crosswalk was struck with a strange feeling. She suddenly recalled fighting the Fire Giants. All she could do was think or murmur to herself.


    One who trusts even without seeing shall die even in life.


    Thinking back on it, it was different from the incantation Hyukjin had uttered. His incantation had ended with live even in death.


    What came after that?


    She didnt remember the exact lines that followed.


    Why did I suddenly remember this?


    An elementary school kid crossing the road looked up at Ahn Seohye.


    Mom. Look over there.


    Why?


    Over there. The red eye is shaking a bunch!


    Seohye was deep in recollection and didnt hear the kid.


    I think it wascerating something something after that.


    The incantation Seohye couldnt remember reappeared in the world through Hyukjins lips.


    Thus shall I sublimate thycerating suffering into eternal peace.


    He uttered the final lines that Seohye had spoken with tears of blood running down her cheeks.


    [<em>You who has killing intent.</em>]


    [<em>Imand thee. Return to thy eternal slumber.</em>]


    With that, theplete opposite of the Incantation of Salvation waspleted.


    [You have partially seeded in uttering the Will Incantation.]


    At the same time, red mana began to ripple from Hyukjins body. Junghwa and Mark stood next to him and provided cover. He had told them in advance that this would happen.


    Mark fired his bow into the sky while covering Kim Hyukjin.


    What is he doing?


    He saw red mana rippling out of Hyukjins body, but he didnt know what the man was preparing. The terrible bloodthirst he felt from that red mana made him shiver. Just standing next to Hyukjin made the hairs on his body stand on end.


    But thats not all.


    Mark had the feeling that intense bloodthirst was fused with something else. This was just his gut feeling, a deduction born entirely out of a yers intangible intuition.


    I think this is fire energy.


    Mark wasnt the only one who felt it. Junghwa felt the same thing. She felt the same kind of mana she sensed from fire attribute yers.


    The person in question, Kim Hyukjin, felt it as well.


    He had the feeling he had taken one step closer to the secret that had remained hidden in the Ink Bow all this time.


    The Ink Bow is responding to a power I possess.


    The Ink Bow in Hyukjins hands began to change.

 Chapter 229

    Chapter 229


    Hyukjin heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [Confirming the presence of pure me energy within the body.]</blockquote>


    Athenaes energy was mixed into the bloodthirst he had amplified with Will Incantation. On top of that<blockquote>


    [Confirming the presence of a physique imprinted with the Tome of the Divine Bow Physique.]</blockquote>


    Beforeing here, Hyukjin used the Tome of the Divine Bow Physique, the item directly sponsored by the Night of Shooting Stars. With it, Hyukjin imbued a special attribute in his body called the Divine Bow Physique.<blockquote>


    [Perceiving powerful me energy imprinted within the Divine Bow Physique.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin knew what this was.


    In the past, he was briefly given the ckfire Bow by the Night of Shooting Stars to use. It appeared that his Divine Bow Physique remembered the ckfire that had billowed from that bow.


    Will Incantation.


    Pure me energy.


    Divine Bow Physique.


    The ckfire Bows mana wavelength, engraved in his body.


    These four factors came together, and<blockquote>


    [Analyzing the mana wavelength with Observers Eye.]</blockquote>


    He oversaw and contemted it all with Observers Eye.


    Is this how you do it?<blockquote>


    [Oveying the Divine Bow Physiques mana on the Ink Bow.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin did everything by instinct.<blockquote>


    [Generating a temporary ckfire Bow.]


    [The ckfire Bows base item is the Ink Bow.]</blockquote>


    A new item was generated with the Ink Bow as a basea ckfire Bow temporarily given shape through the power of the Divine Bow Physique.


    Using a standard item as a base to create a new item.


    It was apletely new concept that hadnt existed in the past. And yet, he had just started pulling it off by instinct. A Guardian who normally didnt interrupt ys sent a message.<blockquote>


    [The Night of Shooting Stars is very satisfied.]</blockquote>


    Guardians avoided sending messages like this in the middle of a y. It was pretty much a tacit rule between Guardians. The reason humanity came up with to exin why was that other Guardians disliked such messages because they disrupted the flow.


    In any case, Hyukjin remembered the ckfire Bows item description word for word.<blockquote>


    [ckfire Bow]


    Of the types of mes, there is redfire, which is consumed by bluefire, which is in turn consumed by ckfire. The ckfire Bow bears the authority of ckfire. It can only be wielded by someone who has the highest grade of affinity for the fire attribute in addition to an innate talent for the archer ss.


    *The ckfire Bow will decide for itself whether someone is qualified to wield it.</blockquote>


    The bow was activated using mana. But the one he had now felt even morefortable in his hand than the one from before.


    Because of Athenaes mes.


    After absorbing Athenaes mes, his fire affinity was higher than when he first used the ckfire Bow, and his talent for the archer ss had also been boosted.


    Dark mes zed on the Ink Bow in Hyukjins hand. He drew the bowstring.


    It eats up a lot of mana.


    He wouldnt be able to manifest the bow for long. It put too much burden on the body.


    Theres my target.


    Hyukjin aimed at a Gryphon surrounded by dozens of other Gryphons.


    Ill aim for the forehead.


    All of this happened in a matter of seconds. From the Will Incantation to firing, everything took less than three seconds. An arrow enveloped in ckfire went whistling off.


    Marks eyes widened.


    Thats an <em>arrow</em>?


    It seemed more like a light beam than an arrow.


    Magic?


    And it was imbued with powerful mana.


    How did he put that much mana in it?


    The result was shocking. The arrow found its mark on the Gryphons forehead and killed it on the spot. ck mes enveloped the beast, instantly disintegrating it. Those mes then burst out, spreading from target to target. A single wisp of me was more than enough to kill.


    Pietro witnessed it, too.


    The mes are swallowing the Gryphons.


    With a single arrow.


    He hunted seventeen Gryphons. With a single shot.


    It was true that Mark and Hyun Junghwa had covered him, allowing him to prepare a big attack. But even so, this was an unreal feat. Regardless of requiring cover, this single blow was far too strong.


    And his main ss is <em>sovereign.</em>


    Hyukjin fired yet another arrow, hunting another thirteen Gryphons with it. He killed three Gryphons instantly with one arrow, and the other ten were burned to death by the ck mes that spread from the arrow.


    Goosebumps rose all over Pietros body.


    Hes <em>this </em>strong and hes not world famous?


    From an information merchants perspective, that was even more terrifying. This man was thoroughly concealing his true self.


    I need to make sure people keep their mouths shut.


    Pietro didnt forget his duty. He had already agreed to this situation with Kim Hyukjin.


    Was this why he was so confident?


    Of course he would be, when he was armed with such a powerful ability.


    It wouldnt be strange at all if he were elected party leader.


    Everyone here would agree to that. Everything went as Kim Hyukjin had devised. Before long, all of the Gryphons were killed, resulting in a notice.<blockquote>


    [The main quest of the Ash-Covered Castle of Angels, the War Between Sky and Ground, has resulted in Grounds victory.]


    [Break time will be granted to the Kin of the Ground.]


    [Rewards will be granted to the Kin of the Ground.]</blockquote>


    The sculptures that had been pelting the Gryphons snapped back to their original ces, and the briefly isted field was once again connected to the outside world.


    Pietro stepped forward.


    Im sure everyone saw it.


    After all, Kim Hyukjin had produced this situation. All that was left now was to elect him as the party leader. However, Kim Hyukjin suddenly interrupted him.


    * * *


    * * *


    I overexerted myself by drawing on my lifeforce. I think I need a little rest as a result.


    Hyukjin fell forward and was caught by Junghwa. Pietro faltered, failing toprehend.


    Eh?


    This wasnt in the script.


    Wasnt he supposed to be the party leader here?


    That was what they had agreed on.


    Whats going on?


    But as expected of an info merchant, Pietro caught on quickly. Kim Hyukjin was acting, using a fairly reasonable excuse like I overexerted myself by drawing on my lifeforce.


    As Junghwa propped him up, Hyukjin let his head slump down as if hecked the strength to lift it. But as he bowed his head, he was smiling.


    This is good.


    Notices rang in Hyukjins ears.<blockquote>


    [A non-archer has been chosen as the MVP in the War Between Sky and Ground.]


    [Non-archers will be permitted to enter the Ash-Covered Castle of Angels.]</blockquote>


    Only Hyukjin heard the words.


    Pietro. I have something to discuss with you.


    Thirty minutes of regrouping time were granted by the System. Slumping on the ground like a limp ragdoll, Hyukjin called Pietro.


    When Pietro sat down next to him, Hyukjin said very quietly, Please call Salvatore, I mean Chiellini.


    The War God Salvatore was already a famous sovereign in Italy. It would be very easy to direct the archers.


    But Chiellini is a sovereign.


    Its now possible for non-archers to enter as well. If you have the key, go ahead and check it.


    Pietro hurriedly checked his Inventory.<blockquote>


    [Gold Key - Dewinged Angel Statue]


    An item that opens the gate into the field Dewinged Angel Statue.</blockquote>


    The description changed!


    Originally, there was a condition saying Only archer yers can enter. But that was gone now.


    Youre right.


    I dont think theres any yer better for a group battle than Chiellini. Hes probably nearby.


    Chiellini is? Why?


    He told me he wanted to go into this gate.


    He told you that?


    Yes. So I told him he should try toe in if he can, and he said he would stay nearby.


    Pietro didnt ask why Chiellini wanted to participate. After witnessing Kim Hyukjins prowess for himself, Pietro could fully understand how Chiellini felt.


    And if Chiellinies in, V will probablye in as well.


    Will that really happen?


    Yes, it will.


    Pietro just stared at Hyukjin for a moment before asking, How many yers of your level are there in Korea?


    Find that out on your own.


    ...Understood.


    Pietro was sure of it.


    He intentionally stationed Chiellini in this area.


    Pietro didnt know what kind of deal the two made, but he suspected Hyukjin had nned this in advance. He was half right. It was true that Chiellini (Salvatore) himself wanted to participate, but Kim Hyukjin also asked him to stay near the Castel SantAngelo.


    And that was because of the Astrologist Itachis prophecy.


    <em>A meeting urs before the cornerstone of an ash-covered temple.</em>


    <em>If they meet as enemies, so shall a congration of hellmence.</em>


    <em>If they meet as friends, so shall the hymn of heaven ring.</em>


    As always, precognitive notes were vague and ambiguous. Back then, Hyukjin thought the prophecy was referring to the temple in Pompeii. But upon further thought, he had the feeling it wasnt.


    This quest had stated it outright: standing before them was the Ash-Covered Castle of Angels.


    If that meeting was a meeting with Salvatore, and what he thought back then was correct


    <em>A meeting urs before the cornerstone of an ash-covered temple.</em>


    <em>If they meet as friends, so shall the hymn of heaven ring.</em>


    then the hymn of heaven would ring. Heaven literally referred to the above the sky, and it also matched the War Between Sky and Ground main quest.


    V came running over.


    Hyukjin! Take me! Take me too!


    Next to him was Salvatore. Two reliable reinforcements hade. The archers cheered upon recognizing V and Salvatore.


    Schultz, the person who was supposed to have be party leader before Hyukjin jumped in, naturally did not oppose when Hyukjin proposedwith pleasureto have Salvatore assume the party leader position. Salvatore epted.


    The Italian sovereign said quietly, Do you intend on setting me up as a front?


    Yes.


    Which means youre using me.


    Am I not allowed to?


    Its not that youre not allowed to Salvatore trailed off, rendered speechless by how easily Hyukjin had admitted it. Ill be your front, but please give me your full assistance.


    Got it.


    ...I will use this opportunity to learn a lot from you. Hyukjin.


    Salvatore felt more at ease than usual.


    This feels great.


    Knowing someone better than him was supporting him made the responsibility feel lighter than usual. Also, he would be able to learn a great deal from Kim Hyukjin again, something he was happy about.


    Thirty minutes passed.


    [The regrouping time granted by the System has ended.]


    Pietro took out the Gold Key.


    I can activate the gate by finding the ce where this key reacts.


    He had already found that spot in advance. It was across the bridge near the Castel SantAngelo.


    [Generating the Ash-Covered Castle of Angels.]


    That moment, the entire field changed. Just like with the Tutorial Field, the world turned red.<blockquote>


    [A crack has formed in the Ash-Covered Castle of Angels.]


    [The field will cease to be if the Ash-Covered Castle of Angels copses.]


    [In order to stop the crack in the Ash-Covered Castle of Angels from spreading, the entrance to the Dewinged Angel Statue must be opened.]


    [The quest Clear the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate! has been generated.]</blockquote>


    Pietro hade all this way for this quest.


    I will now activate the key, he said.


    He activated the Gold Key.<blockquote>


    [The entrance to the Dewinged Angel Statue is opening.]</blockquote>

 Chapter 230

    Chapter 230<blockquote>


    [The entrance to the Dewinged Angel Statue is opening.]</blockquote>


    A deste field appeared. All the grass was dried up, and a bone dry wind blew through the field. The wind carried grains of sand that left a dusty feeling in the mouth.


    A little ways aheady an abandoned sculpture with dried trails of bloody tears.


    There was also a voice.<blockquote>


    [I was discarded.]


    [They cut off my wings.]</blockquote>


    <em>Ruuuumble</em>


    The ins rumbled, as if a weak earthquake were shaking the field.<blockquote>


    [They robbed me of my freedom.]</blockquote>


    Salvatore took the lead.


    I think that angel statue is speaking. I have a notetaking skill, so please stay quiet, everyone.


    The meaning behind those words was simple<em>dont interrupt me</em>. All the archers here were outstanding yers. They understood exactly what Salvatore meant and remained totally silent.


    <em>Whoosh</em>


    The dusty, grainy wind continued to blow.<blockquote>


    [My wings disappeared.]


    [I thought to myself.]


    [For what reason do I, who was deprived of life, exist?]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin was already familiar with this scenario. This Dewinged Angel Statue was enraged. Enraged at the fellow angels that had cut off its wings.<blockquote>


    [I am furious.]


    [At the fellow angels who snatched away my freedom.]</blockquote>


    The angel statues head began to move like a broken ball-jointed doll, creaking.


    Thats creepy.


    The head turned grotesquely to stare at the yers. Fresh lines of bloody tears began to ooze down the dried trails.


    <em>Brrr</em>


    The Dewinged Angel Statue convulsed, dust falling off with every spasm.<blockquote>


    [Kin of the Ground.]


    [Wont you oppose my Kin of the Sky with me?]</blockquote>


    It was exactly as Hyukjin remembered.


    The Dewinged Angel Statue.


    It was enraged at its kin.


    Its simr to the ones I saw.


    There was a high chance it was had a simr ability to the angel statues he had seen in the Wind Temple.


    Sure enough, a red gem appeared on the Dewinged Angel Statues forehead. It looked exactly the same as the ones Hyukjin had seen on the statues in the Wind Temple.


    But not one, but two?


    The statues in the Wind Temple each had one red gem on their foreheads, but this one had two.


    Hyukjin could tell.


    One is for attack, the other is for defense.


    He still remembered the terrifying beam those gems had produced. It was a tool specialized for killing. But this angel statue seemed to possess the power to protect as well.


    Hyukjin recalled Pietros record of the ill-fated raid.


    <em>At first, that showed a shocking power to protect us. Every time the red gem on its forehead shed, we were shielded from an extremely dangerous attack.</em>


    It was the same as before. Sitting on your thumbs when you knew what was going to happen was the act of a fool. If you knew the lottery numbers, you should use them.


    Hyukjin stopped next to Salvatore.


    Party Leader. May I speak to the angel statue?


    Salvatore was technically the party leader. Hyukjin asked him for permission to keep up appearances.


    Go ahead.


    Hyukjin walked towards the angel statue. Its gaze moved to Hyukjin.<blockquote>


    [Kin of the Ground.]


    [Will you cooperate with me?]</blockquote>


    The red gem began to glow faintly with light.<blockquote>


    [If you do not]


    [Only destruction awaits you.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin stopped in ce. I can give you the wings you want.


    The yers were supposed to fight the angels descending from the sky with this angel statue. That fight would result in the victory of the Kin of the Ground, the yers.


    But at thest moment, the final angel made a proposal. <em>Kill them all, and I will take off my wings and give them to you. </em>In the end, the angel statue epted the proposal and betrayed the yers.


    Thats the scenario I know.


    That was the overall progression of this gate. Hyukjin wanted to throw a variable into the scenario.


    What you want most are wings. In your terms, thats freedom, correct?


    Dust continued falling from the angel statues face. The mouth moved stiffly, producing a voice that was no longer a notice.


    You have wings?


    Of course.


    Hyukjin took out an item from his Inventorythe Angel Statues Wings he had acquired from the Wind Temple. The person who had given it to him, Hyun Junghwa, started in surprise.


    Thats the item I gave him.


    She had given it to him because she believed he was the rightful owner.


    When you look at Kim Hyukjins actions


    It was like he had predicted and created this situation from the beginning. If so, that would mean he already foresaw this Dewinged Angel Statue when they were in the Wind Temple.


    What kind of crazy ystyle is that?


    It was almost like he was a seer who knew the future. The Korean yer Hyun Junghwa felt as though she was experiencing the Korean ystyle spoken of overseas in the flesh.


    Hyukjin took another few steps forward.


    This is what you want, right?


    Yes.


    That moment, a powerful wave of mana billowed from the angel statues red gem. It wasnt visible to the physical eye, but Hyukjins Eye of Perception picked up on it.


    If youre thinking about attacking me and stealing the wings, I suggest you give up on the idea. Hyukjin smiled wide. How do you think we cut these wings off?


    The mana building in the red gems rapidly dissipated.


    How did you get that?


    There were some guys that attacked me first. They were protecting a temple.


    What happened to them?


    They were destroyed.


    I see.


    Hyukjin stowed the Angel Statues Wings in his Inventory.


    Let me return the proposal to you. Help us punish the People of the Sky.


    The angel statue making a proposal and fighting the angels with the yers, vs. the yers making a proposal and having the angel statue fight. The two might seem the same based on just the result, but the process was different.


    If my prediction is right you can get way more contribution with thetter.


    The System was geared to prefer active ying over passive ying. A short period of silence followed, injecting a moment of downtime that the Guardians used to send a flurry of messages.<blockquote>


    [The Nameless Observer is observing.]


    [The Whispering Devil is having fun.]


    [The Courageous Lion King is bored.]


    [The Barrier of Blue Light is impressed.]


    [The Night of Shooting Stars continues to focus.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin spread out his hands.


    How about it? Will you cooperate with us?


    * * *


    * * *


    Hyukjin remembered Pietro saying this afterwards:


    <em>The reason half of us were able to survive at all was because the angel statue was in terrible condition.</em>


    The Dewinged Angel Statue almostpletely spent itself in the war against the Sky, allowing the yers to destroy it and escape.


    <em>At that time, we couldntprehend the angel statues final words.</em><blockquote>


    <em>[Still, I did love you.]</em></blockquote>


    The words didnt seem fitting for the betrayed angel statue. There was something weird and illogical about them. Pietro said this in retrospect:


    <em>Those words were basically the final notice stating it would be our enemy. I think those words are to be understood as a deration of war.</em>


    The next moment, the yers began to hear singing from the sky.


    A hymn?


    It sounded like sacred music produced by a beautiful harmony of countless singers, like the chorusing of a choir.


    A massive gate appeared in the sky. The angel statue spoke.


    They are descending.<blockquote>


    [The War Between Sky and Ground is beginning.]</blockquote>


    The gate opened, and from it appeared angel statues with two wings behind their backs. However, they werent the beautiful angels one normally imagined. They were day and night from Senia. Their faces were horrific, dominated by mouths that took up two-thirds of the face and were filled with sharp teeth. Pus oozed from their skin, making the angels appear as if they were melting.


    I shall guard you.


    Light glowed from the red gem. Hyukjin looked around.


    This


    A shield, also called a barrier, was deployed.


    ...is a shield that allows attacks from the inside but blocks attacks from the outside.


    Salvatore also instantly realized that fact.


    Prepare to fight.


    As expected of a sovereign, Salvatore assigned each archer a number and put them in squads. The yers were divided into six regr squads and one special squad that included Salvatore, with each squad having a leader. He aplished that in a matter of minutes.


    <em>Pointer.</em>


    A red light flickered onto one of the six angels that had appeared.


    This is a technique I have called Pointer. It sets a target.


    Everyone understood.


    Squads 1 and 2 will handle that one. Move seven steps to the right and set up an attack formation.


    He used Pointer again, this time on another angel.


    Squads 3 and 4 will take this one. Maintain your current position.


    His eyes moved to another angel. Salvatore could tell it would get attacked by the angel statue on the ground, so he skipped it. It would hurt their DPS if they attacked the same target as the angel statue.


    Ill leave this one to Squad 5. It appears to have lower defensepared to the others.


    That was why he only assigned one team to it.


    Squad 6 will handle that one.


    And finally


    Our squad will handle thest one.


    Our squad referred to the special squad consisting of Salvatore, V, Kim Hyukjin, Mark, and Hyun Junghwa.


    The six angel statues that had appeared were distributed precisely among the raid members. The leader of Squad 1, Schultz, asked a question.


    Should we fire?


    Stand by a little longer.


    They needed toe a little closer, just a little closer.


    That moment, one of the flying angel statues fired a red beam.


    Salvatore flinched. Kim Hyukjin said quietly, Hold.


    Hyukjin wanted him to stay in ce. Despite recognizing the destructive force imbued in that red beam, at this moment, Salvatore trusted Hyukjin.


    Everyone, hold your positions.


    The red beam shot towards them, and at the same time, the ground angel statue spoke.


    I shall protect you.


    The red beam collided into the shield. Like aser reflected by a mirror, the beam bounced off at a different angle.


    Salvatore heard a notice from a new Guardian.<blockquote>


    [The Barrier of Blue Light greatly respects your decision.]</blockquote>


    Just like how Guardians from foreign servers became interested in the Korean server because of Kim Hyukjin, Guardians from the Korean server were starting to gain an interest in foreign server yers, once again because of Kim Hyukjin.


    Hyukjin murmured again, Wait a little longer. Their weakness is the red gem on their foreheads.


    Salvatore was of the same intent. Three seconds longer. Once the enemies drew closer for just three seconds, they would begin their attack.


    Salvatore aimed for the perfect timing.


    Now.


    The six teams began their attack in unison, matching up perfectly with the attack of the ground angel statue.


    One angel statue, the one that had fired the red beam, was destroyed. Through that, the yers realized on their own that the angel statues were weakest directly after attacking.


    Thanks to the yers great teamwork, the ground angel statue also seemed to have plenty of stamina left.


    Hyukjin stared at the remaining five angel statues in the sky.


    Its different from the past.


    They might be facing the same foes, but the difficulty could vary widely depending on how you handled them. One angel statue was already eliminated, and taking care of the remaining five wouldnt be very difficult. The yers were performing extremely well.


    Time passed. Because it wasnt tired, the ground angel statue was able to block the iing red beams, and the yers were able to destroy all five flying angel statues.


    Pietro nearlyughed in astonishment.


    Its this easy?


    No. This wasnt easy. It was absolutely not an easy challenge.


    The key was that special squad. They were firing exactly at the right time and ce to prevent the ground angel statue from taking damage. It was because they preserved the ground angel statues stamina that the shield could be deployed when needed, allowing the yers to hunt down the other angel statues with ease. And at the center of this well-greased operation was Kim Hyukjin. Salvatore might be the official leader, but the true core was Kim Hyukjin.


    It was going well. <em>Too </em>well, in fact, that a notice rang out.<blockquote>


    [The war is being concluded too quickly.]</blockquote>


    Senia appeared. As always, she drew scattered cries of admiration. Hyukjin was so used to the reaction that he took it as a matter of course.


    The war is being concluded too quickly inparison to the Systems arrangement. She quickly continued in a very un-Senia-like fashion. If many Guardians offer their support, the gates difficulty can be raised.


    Hyukjin realized that this might look like a part of her stream, but it wasnt actually. She was using a legal method to ry information to him, a yer.


    Whats going on?


    She could have just appeared and spoken using thenguage only Guardians and Intermediate Administrators could understand, but she streamed in front of Hyukjin using anguage he could understand.


    Many Guardians have offered their support.


    The support of Guardians was, in other words, Coins. Hyukjin was sure that not just one, but many Guardians had contributed.


    Which means, theyll increase the difficulty by investing a shit ton of Coins.


    The Sky Gate began to expand. The ground angel statues voice trembled.


    He is descending.


    The red gems encrusted on the angel statues forehead dimmed in fear. At that moment, the entire field turned dark red, and an overwhelming aura began seeping from the Sky Gate.


    A variable had urred.

 Chapter 231

    Chapter 231


    He is descending.


    The angel statues body hardened, returning to the stone statue it originally was. The gems on its forehead were very faintly shining, but that too looked as though it would soon fade.


    Through the agreement and support of many Guardians, a new scenario willmence.


    How much has the difficulty increased?


    I cannot tell you that. It is up to you, the yer, to determine.


    If Hyukjin had to guess


    I have a feeling its been ramped up a ton.


    The situation felt simr to the Fire Giants. When the Fire Giants first spawned, they were supposed to have killed around 30,000 people. In the same way, half of the archers here were supposed to have lost their lives. That was how the original scenario was supposed to y out.


    The Sky Gate continued to vibrate and expand. Hyukjin felt an incredible presence on the other side.


    Does the System wish to kill as many people as was originally nned this time as well?


    While receiving support from the Guardians, no less?


    Dammit.


    The still-expanding gate asionally emitted yellow sparks. The whole process was taking quite a while.


    What kind of foe is it, to require such fanfare?


    The longer an enemy took to appear, the higher the chance there was that its strength merited the dramatic entrance.


    Itll definitely be stronger than the angels.


    Normally, the strength of an angel was represented by the number of its wings.


    Surely it wont be a six-winged angel.


    A six-winged angel had appeared just one time in the history he knew, in an incident that was called the Paris Catastrophe. When the angel with six wings appeared in Paris, France, 10,000 people were instantly reduced to ashes and an additional 20,000 were melted into nothingness by light.


    If a six-winged angel shows up, were all dead.


    But that probably wouldnt be the case.


    The System wants to get rid of around half of us.


    Using that as a measure, he guessed it would be stronger than a two-winged angel but weaker than a sixer. There was a high chance it would be something that had never appeared in the past (or did appear, but was not told to the public)a four-winged angel.


    He stared at Senia.


    Senia.


    Yes, what is it?


    Senia was as expressionless as ever, but Hyukjin could feel it.


    She wants to say something.


    There was something she was itching to hear from him. Her lips were trembling ever so slightly.


    The monster not showing up yet means theyre giving us time.


    She wasnt saying it, but it looked like she was tamping down the desire to shout, Hurry and spit it out, right now!


    Salvatore watched in silence. He believed it was better to focus on Kim Hyukjins ying right now than to direct the other yers. There was much for him to learn as a sovereign, and as a yer.


    The System suddenly increased the difficulty, even winning the support of the Guardians to do so.


    But the boss wasnt spawning right away.


    If the System simply wanted to ughter us, it wouldnt give us this much time.


    ...


    Senia didnt respond, but her wings began to faintly tremble. She blinked a little faster than usual. Hyukjin almost imagined he could hear her say, Thats right. Hurry. Hurry and raise an objection.


    In other words, the System needs to kill us, but it also has some kind of absolute reason it needs to protect us.


    That was why it was giving them time, time to raise an objection based on that absolute. ying wasnt fair. It favored the one who knew the most. The ignorant were sitting ducks in this cutthroat world.


    Just like in the verbal spar hed had with Yoohyuns Streamer, Neptune.


    Artificially increasing the difficulty like this will have skewed the bnce.


    That was a word the System liked. Bnce. Impartiality.


    Which means, there needs to be another factor to restore the bnce.


    That was the reason why the creature on the other side of that Sky Gate hadnt appeared yet. Senias expression was t, but she spoke far faster than usual.


    What do you think that factor is?


    If that side is strengthened, shouldnt this side be strengthened as well?


    I fully understand what you are saying, yer Kim Hyukjin. May I interpret your words as a formal objection? With my authority as an Intermediate Administrator, I will raise an objection regarding the issue of the Systems impartiality. Do I have your consent?


    Senia was speaking so fast that Hyukjin almost thought she was rapping.


    I give my consent.


    The entirety of the field turned gray. A field-wide notice rang out.<blockquote>


    [By request of the Intermediate Administrator Senia, scenario progress has been briefly halted.]


    [If the Intermediate Administrator Senias request is not appropriate, the System will seek punitivepensation from the Intermediate Administrator Senia.]</blockquote>


    It was a little different from a Pause. The yers were unaffected, and only the field was frozen in time.


    * * *


    * * *


    Pietro realized something else.


    That beautiful female Intermediate Administrator is Hyukjins contracted Administrator. Her name is Senia.


    Pietro turned to his contracted Administrator, a pixie named Bellbell.


    What kind of request did Miss Senia make?


    Sheined that the Systems proceedings werent fair. Haa. That pretty angel must be wrong in the head.


    Howe?


    Even if she seeds, you guysll only be given a slight boost anyway. And it interrupted the flow. The Guardians dont like stuff like this. Plus, if she fails, shell lose her Intermediate Administrator rights. Worst case, she could even be killed.


    She could be killed?


    Pietro racked his brain. Why? Why was an Intermediate Administrator taking such a risky stand? The reason wasnt hard to puzzle out.


    Its because Senia considers Kim Hyukjin a source of content important enough to risk her life on.


    Pietro nced at Bellbell, the Streamer who was sighing as she flitted around near his shoulder.


    If it were me in that situation


    Would Bellbell have raised an objection for his sake? The answer was absolutely not.


    Because there is surely someone out there who can rece me.


    He thought of himself as a fairly outstanding info merchant, but he knew there were definitely at least a few others who could rece him. After all, the world was filled with remarkable people.


    But Kim Hyukjin


    He was different. Pietro clenched his fists.


    I have to be like him.


    An irreceable yer. That was what he had to be in order to y like Kim Hyukjin. He had to make it so his Intermediate Administrator would speak for him at the risk of their authority or even their life. He was once again made to re-evaluate what kind of content he should make and how, as well as what kind of scenes he should show the Guardians.


    A little time passed.<blockquote>


    [The Intermediate Administrator Senias objection has been deemed appropriate.]


    [Seeking measures to adjust the bnce as per the Intermediate Administrator Senias request.]


    [The opinion of the Intermediate Administrator who raised the objection, Senia, can be partially epted.]</blockquote>


    The difficulty was raised through the Guardians, said Hyukjin. In exchange, we should be allowed to receive favors from the Guardians.


    Senia nodded. A notice sounded in Hyukjins ear.<blockquote>


    [The Nameless Observer wants to observe you.]</blockquote>


    It wasnt the usual The Nameless Observer is observing you, but The Nameless Observer <em>wants</em> to observe you. In other words, they were saying they would help him so that they could continue to observe him. Hyukjin understood.<blockquote>


    [The Barrier of Blue Light wants to protect you.]</blockquote>


    The protection-loving Barrier of Blue Light took the te.<blockquote>


    [The Lady of the Scales deeply sympathizes with the value of impartiality.]</blockquote>


    As well as the Lady of Scales.<blockquote>


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain takes pleasure in your fortitude to challenge the System.]


    [The Conductor of Sound is awed by the virtue of a sovereign.]</blockquote>


    Even the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain and the Conductor of Sound stepped forward, making a total of five Guardians who had sent messages to him. Senias face visibly brightened. Her expression remained unchanged, but Hyukjin was now capable of reading her emotions.


    I dont know what shes saying right now, but


    It was probably something like adjusting the bnce in their favor through great support from the Guardians again. The System would get Coins from the Guardians on the opposing side as well as Coins from the Guardians on the supporting side, so it had nothing to lose.


    At longst, Senia faced the yers, her body shimmering with golden light.


    By the support of many Guardians, I hereby proim a change in the settings. On grounds of the Systems impartiality, a temporary allowance will be granted to all yers here.


    She looked like an angel that had truly descended from heaven. The kind of angel people imagined, not the monstrous imitations that had emerged from the Sky Gate.


    Even V, who had seen Senia a few times before, went ck-jawed.


    Ah


    She was simply too beautiful and magical. Everyone went into a daze upon seeing the angel exuding a sacred golden aura as she proimed the change in the settings.


    Everyone except for one person. Hyukjin wasnt all that moved.


    Is she <em>that </em>beautiful?


    Mentally, he recognized that she was beautiful, but the thought didnt reach his heart. He did sort of think it might be because he was technically married to Isabel.


    (As expected of my husband.)


    She always managed to wake up exactly at times like this.


    (I knew my husband wouldnt look at other women.)


    (How very trustworthy. I picked my husband well.)


    (Thats right. No matter how pretty she is, shes not prettier than me, is she? Right? Ohoho ho ho yawn.)


    And then, she fell right back asleep. It seemed as though Hyukjins thoughts had spurred her into forcibly waking ahead of time.


    The System notices continued.<blockquote>


    [The Dewinged Angel Statue reopens its eyes.]


    [The Dewinged Angel Statue has been strengthened.]</blockquote>


    The angel statue woke up again.<blockquote>


    [The yers will be granted a temporary privilege.]


    [Each yer may use an ability restricted by the System.]


    [However, only one ability can be used.]


    [This privilege is effective only in the Dewinged Angel Statue gate.]</blockquote>


    Color returned to the field. The sky was almost red in color. The wind blew, scattering grains of sand. A powerful presence loomed from the other side of the Sky Gate.


    Hyukjin could tell.


    Itsing.


    If his prediction was right, it would be an angel with four wings. It should be weaker than one with six.


    We can do it.


    He had created this situation. If it was a four-winged angel, it was worth a try.


    Salvano, Chiellini.


    Yes?


    Now wasnt the time to be fussing about the details. He couldnt afford to hide his knowledge here.


    Opera of Castle.


    Chiellinis face stiffened. How did Hyukjin know about his ss exclusive skill? Whats more, it wasnt an ability he couldnt even use yet because of the level restriction.


    How he knows isnt important.


    They had to get through this first. <em>That </em>was the important thing right now. He didnt pry. With just three words, Chiellini understood what he had to do.


    Understood.


    Chiellini was certain that Kim Hyukjin was once again nning something big.


    Hyukjin turned to someone else.


    V. You use Shrine Dancer.


    Eh? How do you know about that?


    Chiellini whacked V on the head. Shut up and do as youre told.


    Garshdarnit. Grr, Ill let you off just this once. Prepare to get beaten ck and blue outside.


    Hyukjin looked up at the sky. Something was starting to slowly emerge from the gate.<blockquote>


    [The boss monster Four-Winged Angel Statue has appeared.]</blockquote>


    It was as Hyukjin predicted. An angel with a massive mouth and four wings spawned. Its official name was Four-Winged Angel Statue, and the level was a red question mark.


    We cant defeat it by normal means, but


    Hyukjin finished the groundwork to kill that boss.


    Were killing that thing.


    He was saying the words to Chiellini and V, but also to the Guardians watching from above. No matter the situation, he never forgot his acting.


    Chiellini immediately echoed the words, loudly enough for the others to hear.


    We will be killing that thing.


    Hyukjinsmand was ryed to all the archers through Chiellinis lips.

 Chapter 232

    Chapter 232


    Salvatore said loudly, We will be killing that thing.


    Like the outstanding sovereign he was, he didnt show a shred of uncertainty on his face. To the yers, he gave the impression of a stout oak tree. In fact, Salvatore was using Spirit, a skill that conferred a sense of reassurance to the yers.


    But behind that faade, Salvatore was nervous. It didnt seem like the archers were very aware of it, but as a sovereign, he could feel it. They were facing a foe of tremendous magnitude.


    Four-Winged Angel Statue.


    Hed never heard of it before. Salvatore spoke very quietly, still maintaining Spirit to keep the yers morale from faltering.


    It feels incredibly strong.


    I know.


    Will we really be able to kill it?


    We have to.


    Hyukjin seemed to be asking back, What are we gonna do if we cant?


    If we cant defeat it, were dead. Salvatore realized something that should have been obvious. Right, thats true.


    <em>Can we kill it? </em>was the most stupid question he could have asked. If they couldnt, they would die. They didnt even have a yer who could forge a path out, like an explorer. That meant until this boss monster raid was over, they had no way to cut open an exit and escape. Their only option was to fight that angel and kill it.


    Ites down to whether we die, or it does. One or the other.


    Whether they could kill it or not was never important.


    But how?


    He didnt think they could kill that four-winged boss monster with their strength alone. Its gaze as it stared down at the earthlings from high in the air was full of arrogance.


    A voice rang out.<blockquote>


    [Traitor.]


    [And Kin of the Ground.]</blockquote>


    The monster would recite the lines it was scripted to say.


    Hyukjin said, Tell the archers to cover the Guardian Tower.<blockquote>


    [The traitor shall be dust and disappear.]


    [And the Kin of the Ground shall return to under the ground, where they belong.]</blockquote>


    Squads 1, 2, and 3 will cover the Guardian Tower. Squads 4, 5, and 6 will cover us and the angel statue.


    The Guardian Tower? What Guardian Tower?


    Only the US and Korea had one Guardian Tower each. Was that the Guardian Tower Salvatore meant?


    Is Michelle here?


    If Michelle were here, it would be possible. She went around summoning her Guardian Tower using her special ability Guardian Tower Summoning, strengthening her growth-type tower Tintin with every battle and consolidating her firm position as a sovereign.


    I will be summoning the Guardian Tower.


    Hyukjin honed his focus.<blockquote>


    [You may use an ability restricted by the System.]


    [However, only one ability can be used.]</blockquote>


    He decided to manifest an ability hed never been able to use before.


    Hyun Junghwas Consecutive Rapidfire. Vs item switching.


    He had replicated both of them just by watching. He couldnt do it perfectly, since all hed done was watch over their shoulder.


    Its different this time.


    With the Systems assistance, he could replicate an ability better than ever before.<blockquote>


    2) Skill effect:<ul><li>


    Flow Perception: Visualize the flow of nature.</li><li>


    Action Replication: Copy the actions of an observation target (currently cannot be used).</li><li>


    Title Replication: Use the title and simr abilities of an observation target (currently cannot be used).</li><li>


    Ability Share: Share an ability with designated observation targets (currently cannot be used).</li></ul></blockquote>


    Hyukjin erased the currently cannot be used use attached to Action Replication.<blockquote>


    [Temporarily erasing the use restriction of Action Replication, a skill belonging to Observers Eye.]


    [You may now use Action Replication.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin thought of Michelle. During their war together, Michelle had summoned her Guardian Tower.


    Action Replication.<blockquote>


    [The use of Action Replication must be preceded by sufficient observation.]


    [Please set the specific name of the Action Replication Target that you have ascertained through sufficient observation.]</blockquote>


    Apparently, Observers Eye was always destined to be half-useless if you didnt have Eye of Perception to go with it. Hyukjin had read Michelles status using Eye of Perception. 34 years old, level 38. Her ss was Mercenary Sovereign. He remembered her details precisely.<blockquote>


    Innate ability:<ol><li>


    Inject Funds</li><li>


    Guardian Tower Summoning</li></ol></blockquote>


    He thought of the specific name.<blockquote>


    [Replicating Michelles Guardian Tower Summoning via Action Replication.]


    [Action Replication was carried out sessfully.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin temporarily gained a new innate ability, which he immediately used.<blockquote>


    [Using the temporary innate ability Guardian Tower Summoning.]</blockquote>


    Something began to emerge from right next to the angel statuea Guardian Tower topped with a floating red eye. It was the Guardian Tower imbued with the soul of the Barrier Magician Ahn Seohye.


    V was baffled.


    You can summon a Guardian Tower, too? He tilted his head. Just how broken are you?


    Even as he groused, V went up to the Guardian Tower, clearly knowing what his role was.


    Hyukjin heard Seohyes voice.


    Whats that thing in the sky? It gives me a bad feeling.


    <em>Think you can hunt it?</em>


    Im not sure. Ill have to give it a try first.


    Considering that Seohye saw Michelles Tintin as prey the moment she saw it, the Four-Winged Angel Statue was obviously no easy foe.


    Chiellini.


    Chiellini also went up to the Guardian Tower. The Four-Winged Angel Statue spread its four wings wide, preparing to attack the yers.<blockquote>


    [Return to death.]


    [<em>Annihting Rain of Ten Thousand Feathers.</em>]</blockquote>


    A terrifying number of feathers appeared in the air, each of them bearing intense killing power.


    The leader of Squad 1, Schultz, felt the hair on his neck tingle.


    Tremendous killing intent.


    He gave his orders right away. Those who have AOE attacks will block the feathers. One beat after we defend, well attack.


    They had no choice but to use attacks as defense. Schultz felt his heart sink.


    Many will die.


    If something didnt change, many of them would die from that one attack. Feather after feather was being generated in the air. The moment they shot down, the ughter would begin.


    If I have to die here Schultz tightened his fists. Ill fight with no regrets.


    He bit his lips. This was no time to be holding back. The German archer/sovereign yer released his Guardians favor.


    Seek life to die, seek death to live<em>.</em>


    Schultz recited the short incantation. Mana writhed at his back, then extended outward, quickly taking the shape of arge, armored giants upper body.


    Those who seek death shall live, and those who seek life shall die.


    Hyukjin heard those words and recognized them as the famous words spoken by Admiral Yi Sun-sin.


    Is that an incantation?


    Despite being very short, the incantation manifested.


    The length isnt important.


    Hyukjin was struck with an enlightenment. Schultzs will was imbued in those words. Pulling off an incantation may have seemed unlikely from the length, but those two lines were steeped in sincerity.<blockquote>


    [The signature move of the boss monster Four-Winged Angel Statue is being used.]</blockquote>


    The System being so kind as to state it outright meant the attacking their way was simply that strong. Bnce necessitated the warning.


    The white feathers quivering with vicious bloodthirst began to embroider the sky, pouring down like a heavy rain, and the giant that had appeared behind Schultz expanded all at once to partially shield the yers.


    <em>ng! ng! ng!</em>


    Feathers crashed into the giants body in a flurry of sparks. A good number of them were blocked by the giant.


    Schultz expelled a mouthful of blood.


    I will protect them.


    It was then that Salvatore began to speak. Without being taught, he realized for himself what an incantation was by seeing Schultz do it. He spoke the words that came to his mind purely by instinct.


    Sing, my soldiers.


    For an incantation, it was terribly clumsy.


    Climb the castle ramparts and melt the biting northerly wind.


    But his incantation was real. He took what he learned from Kim Hyukjn and Schultz to blow his will into being in his own way.


    I am your castle, your refuge, and shall be your indomitable spirit.


    That moment, white light radiated from Salvatores body. Hyukjin recognized the words. They were the lines Salvatore had always spoken when he used his exclusive skill, Opera of Castle. In his past life, Hyukjin hadnt known it was an incantation, but he knew now.


    That was the Wargods legendary AOE buff that, when fighting with a Guardian Tower, rapidly boosted all yer abilities and maximized the Guardian Towers innate abilities. It was an incredible ability that could raise the very grade of a Guardian Tower by one. If the rain of feathers pouring down was the Four-Winged Angel Statues signature move, Opera of Castle was the Wargods first signature move.


    Wordless singing began to ring out, and the yers were enveloped in white light. Schultz, who had just been vomiting blood, felt the effects instantly.


    My bodys been healed.


    The damage he had just done to his body while using the Guardian favor was healed, and the favor was strengthened even more. The giant took on a slightly red tint to its originally ck-and-white color, the armor it was donning bing red.


    Its gotten stronger.


    The Guardian favor was undoubtedly boosted.


    How in the world?


    It was definitely Chiellinis ability. The other yers felt it, too. They knew Chiellinis innate ability was shining in all its glory.


    Hyukjin was focusing on a slightly different aspect.


    Hymn.


    There was a strong sacred feel within that singing, which he could feel more keenly because he had Conductors Hymn.


    This is a hymn.


    And


    This is the path a hymn should take.


    Salvatore showed him the future, helping him grasp the correct direction. Hyukjin was left feeling as though he had learned something from the other sovereign.


    * * *


    * * *


    On the other side, Salvatore felt goosebumps rise over his entire body, which was emanating miraculous light.


    He suddenly recalled Itachis prophecy.


    <em>If they meet as friends, so shall the hymn of heaven ring.</em>


    Right now, a hymn was ringing through the air. He was able to use this ability because Kim Hyukjin was here, because Kim Hyukjin summoned a Guardian Tower. And also, because Kim Hyukjin told him in advance to use this ability.


    Itachis prophecy was right.


    The sensation of mana being sucked out of his body nearly made Salvatore stumble, but he held on tight to his consciousness.


    Whats that?


    The Guardian Towers red eye and the white light he had created came together before disappearing, leaving just the shell of the Guardian Tower. In its ce, a girl hed never seen before was standing next to Kim Hyukjin.


    A girl?


    She looked young. He couldnt see her face properly because of all the white light around her. Even her body wasnt clearly visible. All he could tell was that she was a woman enveloped in light.


    Im back, the girl said.


    * * *


    One of the red gems on the angel statue that had sided with the Ground shined brightly.<blockquote>


    [You were the ones that betrayed me first.]</blockquote>


    The angel statues aura became a level fiercer. Its abilities were boosted by Salvatores sovereign buff. As expected of Salvatores signature move, it buffed everyone or everything that was considered an ally.


    And then, the betrayed angel statue spoke the words it had uttered to the yers in the past.<blockquote>


    [Still, I did love you.]</blockquote>


    That was what it said before betraying the yers and killing them. Now, it said those words not to the yers, but to the Four-Winged Angel Statue.


    Hyukjin heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [The quest Find the Dewinged Angel Statues Wings has been triggered.]</blockquote>


    The Dewinged Angel Statue had chosen its stance once and for all. Hyukjin took out the wings from his Inventory without hesitation.


    Here.


    The wings in Hyukjins hands instantly disappeared, reforming on the Dewinged Angel Statue.<blockquote>


    [The quest Find the Dewinged Angel Statues Wings has been cleared.]


    [As the quest reward, the Angel Statues Master title has been generated.]</blockquote>


    The angel statue began to change. Rubble fell to the ground, soon revealing an angel that looked like the others.


    Four wings.


    But they werent perfect wings. The angel pped its ragged, torn wings and flew into the sky, arge, golden spear forming in its hands.


    The two angel statues red at each other in midair.<blockquote>


    [Do you intend on opposing us atst?]


    [You are the ones who discarded me first.]</blockquote>


    Thanks to their conversation, the yers had a moment to catch their breaths. Schultz was gasping for breath on the ground, and the yers who were struck by the Annihting Rain of Ten Thousand Feathers downed pots to heal their wounds. Thankfully, no one had died.


    Kim Hyukjin heard a voice.


    Im happy I can walk.


    It was the girl wreathed in light, Ahn Seohye.


    Im happy I can breathe.


    He continued to hear her voice.


    Im happy I can feel.


    She lightly grasped the hem of Hyukjins clothes.


    Im happy to be alive.


    The simple statements continued.


    I want to eat tonkatsu.


    Hyukjin could tell that this was no ordinary greeting from the girl who had recovered her physical body, though only temporarily.


    Above her head, the Red Eye was gushing wicked light.


    The Red Demon Ahn Seohye gave a sweet smile.

 Chapter 233

    Chapter 233


    The Red Eye gleamed wickedly, exuding such intense bloodthirst and chilling aura that even Hyukjin had to take a step back.


    All those who interfere with these joys


    Seohye smiled radiantly.


    ...must be killed.


    Almost like when Hyukjin recited an incantation and uttered the final activation words, Seohye did the same.<blockquote>


    [<em>Die.</em>]</blockquote>


    From that, Hyukjin realized something.


    <em>Everyone must die.</em>


    Those were the words spoken by the Red Demon in his past life. He thought they were just ordinary words back then, but it seemed they were an incantation.


    Shes different from back then.


    The Red Demon who ughtered so many people said, <em>Everyone must die.</em> Now, the first part was missing. Instead of an all-epassing everyone, the target was now clearly set to one enemy.


    Hyukjin was able to sense another emotion brewing amidst the intense bloodthirst emanating from the Red Eye.


    At the core of this intense bloodthirst


    He was mentally connected to Seohye. The reason why Seohye became part of a Guardian Tower in the first ce was because of her strong Guardian Will. Hyukjin could sense Seohyes desire to protect.


    ...is the desire to protect something.


    The result was the same. The Red Demon looked exactly as her name suggested. That sweet, chilling smile, those wickedly gleaming red eyes, they were the same as the Red Demon in his past life. They looked the same on the outside, but the current Ahn Seohye was different.


    The previous Red Demonmitted ughter for the sake of ughtering.


    But now


    The current Red Demon wants to protect us.


    Red threads emerged from behind Seohye. Tens of thousands of red threads surged into the sky like spider webs shooting towards prey.<blockquote>


    [The Angel Statue awaits orders from the Angel Statues Master.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin gave the order at once.


    Attack.


    He could see what Seohye was going to do. She wasnt trying to attack the Four-Winged Angel Statue right now. Just like when she faced the Fire Giants, she was pinning the boss down. She, the Barrier Magician and Guardian Tower, would handle restricting its movements, while the angel statue did the attacking.


    The angel with four ragged wings also had red gems on its forehead. One of them began to exude powerful mana.


    Salvatore realized what he needed to do right now.


    I need to focus my strength on that angel.


    He concentrated his buff on it.


    <em>Ahhhh!</em>


    <em>Ahhh!</em>


    The hymn created by Salvatores Castle of Opera intensified, rippling over the entire field before enveloping the angel statues body with a bright sh of light.


    At the same time


    You who took my freedom, I still loved you.


    The ground angel fired a red beam. The sky angel was bound by Seohyes red threads. The red beam fired by the ground angel became even bigger.


    The angel statues red gem began to crack. A scream split through the sky.


    GAHHH!


    Seohye mumbled to herself, Ill kill you. Ill kill you. Ill kill you.


    Red energy exploded from her body. The red threads constricted the angels body with greater force. Seeing that, the archers fired at the enemy angel in unison.


    The leader of Squad 1, Schultz, shouted, Use your biggest attack!


    Right now, that Guardian Tower and angel were buying them time. What they had to do was abandon all thought of defense and go all out on offense. They also had the time to unleash their heavy hitting moves. The archers let loose a barrage of their ultimate attacks.


    Hyukjin made the same call. He took out the Ink Bow.


    It uses a lot of mana, but


    Despite the intense physical burden, this was their chance.


    <em>Crack!</em>


    More cracks splintered through the red gem encrusted on the ground angels forehead.


    That red beam will soon be extinguished.


    Before that happened, they had to seize this opportunity.<blockquote>


    [Oveying the Divine Bow Physiques mana on the Ink Bow.]


    [Generating a temporary ckfire Bow.]


    [The ckfire Bows base item is the Ink Bow.]</blockquote>


    It was an artificial, temporary ckfire Bow. However, it wasnt at all weaker than the real deal.


    Focus my mind.


    The weak spot was that red gem. The sky angel was, of course, resisting by firing a red beam. Which meant, it would be weakest when that red beam stopped, if only for a moment.


    Aim.


    He focused. Every sound fell away, every sight around him ceased to be. Only he and the red gem existed.


    Now.


    Hyukjin fired. An arrow zing with ckfire sped off. V jumped into the air, surging up like he had wings on his back.


    Shrine Dancer.


    He hurled a fist at the Four-Winged Angel Statue in midair, moving like he was dancing. He flowed elegantly from movement to movement like water.


    Vs hands reached one of the Four-Winged Angel Statues wings. His eyes shed red, and he uttered two words, as if activating a magic spell.


    Be torn.


    And then, he began to rip off the Four-Winged Angel Statues wing with both hands.


    * * *


    * * *


    The yers were on their backs, utterly exhausted.


    Hah, hah


    The leader of Squad 1, Schultz, was also sprawled out on the ground.


    We did it.


    Schultz heard it loud and clear.<blockquote>


    [You have sessfully hunted the Four-Winged Angel Statue.]


    [You have defeated a boss monster.]</blockquote>


    They were all taking a break. But something was a little strange.


    Howe its not getting cleared?


    Was there a separate clear condition? Normally, hunting the boss monster secured the clear.<blockquote>


    [The Sky Gate is emitting powerful mana wavelengths.]


    [Until the Sky Gate expires, the yers cannot leave the field.]


    [The Sky Gate is expected to expire in 20 days.]</blockquote>


    Pietro felt a spike of anxiety. Twenty days?


    The yers were drained beyond all measure. Even getting the best quality food and rest might not be enough to recover, yet they suddenly had to endure <em>twenty days</em>?<blockquote>


    [The rewards for the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate will be given only to the yers who survive the 20 days.]


    [The quantity and quality of the clear rewards will increase with fewer survivors.]</blockquote>


    The Dewinged Angel Statue Gate wasnt over yet.


    The rewards will increase with fewer survivors?


    Then what if only one person survived?


    That person would get all the rewards to themselves.


    He immediately had goosebumps.


    The person here who can do that


    His gaze moved to Kim Hyukjin.


    ...is Kim Hyukjin!


    He had seen some extent of Kim Hyukjins prowess. Moreover, Hyukjin had his Guardian Tower here. On top of that, Hyukjin was acquainted with Salvatore (Chiellini) and was on very close terms with V. If Kim Hyukjin wanted, he could kill everyone here.


    Because he knew what would happen.


    He hade here knowing the future foreseen by the Precognitive Dreamer Ham Sohyun. Pietro stood there frozen, feeling as though every hair on his body were standing on end.


    He seems to be taking something out of his Inventory.


    Pietro tensed. His eyes met Hyukjins. A chill ran down his spine.


    Hyukjin smiled.


    I can clearly see what youre thinking, Mr. Pietro.


    I wasnt thinking much.


    Then why are you so tense?


    Its not that Im tense, but that Im just starting to rx.


    Hyukjin grinned. The same thought that had urred to Pietro had urred to him. It couldnt be helped. In a situation like this, it wasnt strange to fear the strong. Especially if you were a smart and mindful person like Pietro.


    With Miss Ham Sohyuns help, I predicted this predicament in advance.


    Pietro gulped. A few of the archers also watched Hyukjin with wary eyes, ready to act if he made any threatening movements.


    So I brought a lot of provisions and water with me.


    He took out the Infinite Pouch, which he had filled to the brim with Sunhwa at the department store. It wouldnt be hard for everyone here tost the twenty days.


    This is the Infinite Pouch. I will distribute a set amount of supplies one time every day. However, if anyone tries to harm another yer


    Standing next to Hyukjin, Seohye finished his sentence with a bright smile.


    I might kill them.


    That settled things.<blockquote>


    [The Lady of the Scales is deeply impressed.]


    [The Lady of the Scales bestows you a Judgment of the Law.]</blockquote>


    It was his second Judgment of the Law.<blockquote>


    [The Nameless Observer is observing.]


    [The Barrier of Blue Light is happy.]</blockquote>


    Salvatore was speechless.


    Was he prepared for this situation?


    Wasnt that why Kim Hyukjin had an Inventory full of provisions and supplies? He wasnt just at the level of someone to learn from. His opponent was so high up that just chasing after him would be hard enough, much less learning from him as a peer.


    But then, he saw Kim Hyukjin suddenly crack a smile. It was only for a fraction of a second, and Salvatore was only able to glimpse it because he was standing right next to the man. Kim Hyukjin suddenly bent at the waist towards him.


    All of this was done at the orders of Italys sovereign, Mr. Chiellini.


    Salvatore was stunned. The spotlight fell entirely on him.


    Huh?


    He stared at Hyukjin, but Hyukjin was already distributing bread and water while saying, Just as Mr. Chiellini ordered, I will now distribute the water and provisions.


    The quick-witted Pietro went up to Salvatore (Chiellini).


    I am in awe of your insight, Chiellini.


    ...


    <em>No, it wasnt me!</em> But he couldnt bring himself to say the words now.


    I hate to even think what might have happened to us if not for your prudent preparations, Chiellini.


    That, um, so. Well, I just did what I should.


    Chiellinis reaction confirmed Pietros suspicions. As I thought, Chiellini didnt have him do it.


    This was a scheme Hyukjin had cooked up. The others might be fooled, but the information merchant Pietro could tell.


    But Kim Hyukjin wants to put Chiellini in the publics eye.


    Kim Hyukjin must have used some kind of ability to hide himself. Pietro decided where to steer his boat.


    So I need to y to his beat.


    Pietro bowed his head to Chiellini. On behalf of the party, I thank you. Italian sovereign Chiellini, your fame shall echo across thends.


    Kim Hyukjin, Pietro, and Chiellini all heard the same notice.<blockquote>


    [The Whispering Devil is amused.]</blockquote>


    * * *


    Ahn Seohyes body was still shining. The light made her body nearly impossible to see. She was sitting on the ground, leaning against Hyukjins back.


    I really like being able to move around like this.


    Yeah?


    Before, I had no idea being able to move, being able to breathe were things to be so grateful for.


    ...


    Seohye was being sincere. Hyukjin could feel that better than anyone.


    Ill have to return to being a tower again when you leave this field, right?


    Ill bring you out again soon.


    Seohye nodded. Ill wait.


    Hyukjin had felt her desire to protect someone keenly. It was an emotion he knew wellhe felt it when he looked at his little sister Sunhwa. A desire to protect her at all costs.


    In the end, I need power.


    The Demon King had made the arrangements. He definitely said, Ill wait for you at Endless Sky. And Hyukjin was nearly there.


    Its a shame the angel statue was destroyed. I think we could have been friends.


    Yeah.


    In the end, the ground angel perished, and with it disappeared the Angel Statues Master title.


    Didnt the angel statue leave something behind when it was destroyed?


    It did.


    Seohye continued to chatter, almost as if simply talking were a treasure to be cherished. Her lips didnt rest for a moment.


    What did it leave?


    Canvas of Longing.


    Canvas?


    Hyukjin nodded. While talking to Seohye, he was also borrowing Senias eyes to exin what he got to the Guardians as well.


    Whats that?


    That angel statues wings were cut off. Right?


    Right.


    The angel statue said it was robbed of its freedom. I guess that means wings are freedom to them.


    I see. Seohye nodded. She was hanging on every word of his with rapt attention, like it was the most fun thing in the world. And so?


    When the angel statue was destroyed, it gave me this Canvas of Longing. Its a kind of tool that can open another Sky Gate.


    A Sky Gate? That thing?


    Yeah. But that one is a gate going from the sky to here, whereas this one seems to be a gate that lets you go from here to the sky.


    Wow. I wanna go to the sky, too. Do you have to ride a ne to get there, then?


    Hyukjin smiled. What ne?


    But a few conditions are necessary to activate this thing.


    Like what?


    You need to have the Fountain Pen of Freedom.


    Eh?


    He already had the Fountain Pen of Freedom, fresh from the recent auction.


    Where can you find that?


    I already have it.


    Hyukjin could tell that right now, he had the attention of many Guardians. They were sitting on the edge of their seats, waiting with bated breath for his lips to move.


    Then I should put in a little suspense here.


    A story would be t without any winding curves. Going straight from A to B wasnt any fun.


    But theres a little problem.


    He could see it clearly in his minds eyethe Guardians were waiting. Hyukjin intentionally took a breath, and then he continued.


    A yer cant activate the Sky Gate.

 Chapter 234

    Chapter 234


    yers cant activate it? asked Seohye.


    Nope.


    Still leaning against Hyukjins back, Seohye thought for a moment. Just like how Hyukjin was connected to Seohye, so too was Seohye to Hyukjin. She understood his feelings, to some extent.


    Looks like you have some kind of n.


    Yeah.


    Seohye didnt ask what that was. She also knew that this conversation wasnt just between the two of them, but that it was progressing with the Guardians in mind. Seohye didnt ask, because she instinctively knew this was the right time for a cliffhanger.


    Seohye closed her mouth for a bit.


    But really, what is he nning?


    She had no idea. Other than wanting to know what he was thinking, a different kind of greed came to life within her.


    I suppose this is me wanting to have a conversation with just the two of us.


    At first, she was happy and blissful with just being able to walk and talk again, but now, she wanted more. But Seohye knew. As long as Intermediate Administrators existed, and there was a system called streaming, they could never have a private conversation.


    Hyukjin heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [Channel #19207 has closed.]</blockquote>


    That was Senias channel.


    Senia?


    He got no response. Senia was gone. Normally when she stopped streaming, she left after saying so, but not today.


    Did something urgente up?


    It wasnt strange for an Intermediate Administrator to stream one yer and then go to another, hopping from ce to ce. He didnt think much of it.


    Sorry, said Hyukjin. For not being able to give you much attention.


    No, I fully understand.


    I know how you feel.


    Seohye was truly lonely. It couldnt be helped. That was just how the situation was.


    I promise you once again. Ill make it so you can get your body back.


    It felt like he had a lot of things to do. He had to protect Sunhwa and help Seohye.


    Im more grateful for your feelings than for those words, Seohye responded.


    She could feel his sincerity through their mental connection. Just then, Hyukjin heard someone screech in his head.


    (Husband! What do you think youre doing?!)


    It was Isabel. Why did she keep waking up? Why was a sealed sword so sleepless?


    (Think I can sleep with my husband cozying up to another woman? Whats with this chick? Isnt she that Guardian Tower? Whys she leaning on my husbands back?!)


    Hyukjin had no idea how this happened, either. He felt bad for Seohye, so he just let her lean on his back. He knew that Seohye didnt think of him as a man, but as someone she could rely on. He was the one and only person in this world she could talk to, the only person who could listen to her.


    Isabel. You know, dont you? The way I see Seohye.


    Hyukjins link with Isabel was stronger and more deeply rooted than his link with Seohye. Isabel could even read most of his thoughts.


    (Yeah, but still. This is a little)


    Im the only person in her world right now.


    (Still My husbands back belongs to me.)


    Isabels voice grew quiet.


    Youre well aware of what kind of feelings I have towards her, and what feelings she has towards me. Do you think Seohye sees me as a man right now?


    That was absolutely untrue. Hyukjin knew that very well.


    (But youre a married man. Youre being overly nice to her.)


    Thats because Im the only person in the world who <em>can </em>be nice to her.


    Hyukjin was now much better at handling Isabel. Maybe because Isabel had lived as a sword for a long time, she had a simplistic way of thinking. She wasnt all that verbally adept.


    Id like my bride to understand me. He wasnt asking for unconditional understanding. Ill do well. Ill trust you. You can feel all my emotions anyway. Plus, you should be well aware that I dont see Ahn Seohye as a woman, and that she doesnt see me as a man. Its just that I want to give her the minimum amount offort a person can give another person.


    Isabels de quivered. To be honest, Hyukjin almost wondered why he had to coax a sword like this, but he barely managed to squash the thought before it could surface. It would be troublesome if his inner thoughts were aired out to this fearsome sword.


    (Your back belongs to me. You know that, right?)


    I know. Of course it belongs to you.


    (Fine then. Her situations pretty sad, so Ill make an exception.)


    I knew youd say that.


    (I-Im a generous bride, after all.)


    A crack appeared on Isabels de, caused by her insistence on staying awake.


    Go back to sleep. I understand why youre worried, but I wont give you cause for worry. How upset do you think Ill be if you damage yourself like this?


    That was sincere. There would be no greater heartbreak than breaking a transcendent item.


    (Got it. This little crack will be healed right away with auto restoration, so dont worry too much.)


    Isabels ruffled feathers were clearly soothed.


    (Ill go back to sleep. Later, you have to go eat tonkatsu or chicken or whatever it is with me, too.)


    Isabel returned to her slumber. Meanwhile, Seohye was mumbling something. Hyukjin couldnt catch what she said.


    What did you say? Sorry, I didnt hear you.


    It was nothing.


    Seohye got up, then turned and looked at the sitting Hyukjin.


    Remember the incantation I did earlier?


    Youre happy you can breathe, happy you can feel, happy to be alive. That one?


    Yes. The next part is the most important


    It was I want to eat tonkatsu, wasnt it?


    Thats right. Seohye smiled brightly. I want to eat tonkatsu.


    Once youve regained your body, lets go eat tonkatsu. With Sunhwa.


    Ah. I also want to see Sunhwa.


    Ill tell Sunhwa to go see you.


    They wouldnt be able tomunicate, but Seohye would still be able to see Sunhwa.


    You dont need to. She visited me often.


    Did she?


    I wanted to say a lot of things and chat with her, but it was a shame that I couldnt. Seohye walked forward. I want to go on a walk. Ill go look around.


    Alright.


    There was nothing dangerous here anyway. Even if there was, the Red Demon could take care of herself. It had been a while since she had two feet to walk on. Hyukjin could feel how precious being able to walk around was through his connection with her.


    After Seohye set off on her walk, Salvatore took the chance hed been waiting for and approached Hyukjin.


    May I ask you a quick question?


    Anytime.


    I would like to ask about incantations.


    Hyukjin knew that wasing. He grinned. I would have been disappointed if you hadnt asked.


    ...I kept hesitating because I thought it might offend you.


    But the sovereign Salvatore must ask, of course.


    Salvatore?


    Ah. That was a slip of the tongue. Hyukjin was just too used to the name Salvatore that he identally said it.


    ...Youve figured out even that?


    Huh?


    Im truly astonished. Is this Miss Ham Sohyuns ability, your info-gathering acumen, or the power of the information merchant Pietro?


    Thats a secret.


    Understood.


    What was so notable about Salvatore? In the future, it was a household name, but Hyukjin couldnt say that. It wasnt that he was trying to hide it, just that he couldnt tell the truth.


    I would like to learn the incantation you recited. Would that be possible?


    Its possible.


    It wasnt a difficult request. Anyone who didnt have the talent or the will to back up the incantation wouldnt get any further than just speaking words. Incantations were fully regted by talent, and Salvatore was a sovereign yer with enough talent to go around.


    Even if I dont teach him, hell realize it on his own one day.


    This damned world of ying was literally winners win. Salvatore was a winner anyway.


    Since hell figure it out anyway, its better if I teach it to him.


    It would put Salvatore in his debt, and Hyukjin would get some credit for the deed.


    Weve got plenty of time, so Ill go through it slowly. But it wont be for free.


    * * *


    * * *


    Ten days passed.


    Thanks to Hyukjin (though publicly, it was Chiellini) acting as the mediator, there wasnt much discord among the yers. In ten days, the gate would be fully cleared, and the rewards would be distributed to the survivors. Everyone took it easy and stocked up on stamina.


    Huh? Somethings spawning over here!


    That quiet peace was broken when something began to spawn on the grounda stone that gave off green smoke. More stones appeared around the field.<blockquote>


    [Green Poison Stone]


    A stone bearing a powerful poison. If it isnt broken in a set period of time, the poison will start seeping into the air. If left intact, the poison will be stronger and stronger with time.


    *Cannot be destroyed with long-ranged attacks.</blockquote>


    Salvatore stepped forward.


    I will distribute some hammers.


    They were, of course, tools Hyukjin had prepared in advance with Sunhwa.


    I had the help of Miss Ham Sohyun from Taeguk Shield.


    The archers took the hammers.


    We have to be diligent about breaking them. The poison will be intense.


    With that, everything Hyukjin prepared was revealed.


    Good, I was bored anyway.


    Jeez, this things super hard!


    Hurry and break it. The poison ising out faster than expected.


    The archers started running around with the hammers, and another ten days passed. All the yers who had gone into the Dewinged Angel Statue gate cleared it and came out.


    Some news found their way to the media.


    Ham Sohyun, the Precognitive Dreamer of Taeguk Shield. Who is she?


    The sovereign Salvatore shows Italys potential.


    Ham Sohyuns name was raised to the heavens, and Chiellini started using the name Salvatore outright. Thanks to the Dewinged Angel Statue gate, Salvatores fame rose to the point of rivaling Michelles.


    Taeguk Shield has an ultimate weapon other than their Precognitive Dreamer.


    Rumors of that nature began to spread as well, but the archers who went into the Dewinged Angel Statue gate didnt give any precise details about the mysterious person. Everyone just unanimously agreed that there was an ultimate weapon in Taeguk Shield and didnt extrapte.


    * * *


    In a VVIP room in Sungshins hospital, Ham Sohyun gave a faintugh as she watched the TV from her bed. On TV, the media was covering Taeguk Shields Precognitive Dreamer in-depth.


    Even though I didnt do anything


    The woman peeling mandarin oranges next to her snickered. That must be Mr. Hyukjins doing, right?


    I think so, too.


    I heard you want to see him too, Sohyun?


    Yeah. Im curious about what kind of person he is. Youve seen him, havent you, Sooji?


    Yep. The Poison Witch scowled. But Im serious, I think that guy must either be gay or a eunuch.


    Why?


    Im openly trying to seduce him, but hes not falling for me.


    Youre openly seducing him? You, Cheon Sooji? But hes not falling for you? Sohyun let out another smallugh.


    Dont ridicule me. Im serious here. That mans a real riddle. How do you think I can win him over? Dont you have some kind of bibbity-bobbity-boo predictions you can make for me? I want to date him.


    Sohyun shook her head. Give up.


    What makes you say that all of a sudden?


    Im really so, so curious about that man. Thats why I asked Guildmaster Song if I could meet him.


    I know. What about that?


    Im so, so curious. And also so, so scared.


    Soojis face turned serious. She set down the mandarin shed been eating.


    Scared?


    Behind that man is something terrifying I cant identify.


    Something terrifying you cant identify?


    Yeah. Its sharp and cold, but also hot and sturdy. It shines radiantly, yet is infinitely dark.


    Sooji started munching on her mandarin again. Sounds like utter hogwash.


    Thats how precognitive dreaming always is, I suppose. I can feel a massive power that is both a blessing and a curse. I dont know how to exin it, either.


    Does that have anything to do with me wanting to go out with him?


    It does. Ham Sohyun stared at her friend. Dont get too close to that man.


    Why?


    Youll die, without fail.


    A knock on the door interrupted their conversation.


    May Ie in?


    It was Guildmaster Song Kiyeol. Because Sohyun was unable to muster a loud voice, Sooji responded in her friends stead.


    Come in.


    Song Kiyeol came inside. Next to him was Kim Hyukjin, and beside him was yet another person.


    As soon as Ham Sohyun saw them, she knew.


    That person is Kim Hyukjin.


    And the person standing next to him was Italys info merchant, Pietro. She recognized them at a single nce.


    And


    She realized something else. Upon seeing Kim Hyukjin in person, she saw something. A yellow precognitive note formed in the air.<blockquote>


    [D-ewer-Cresadel-Hometes-]</blockquote>


    Ham Sohyun, who couldnt normally move her body well, straightened at once. A red brush appeared in her hand, and her eyes turned white.


    As soon as she saw Kim Hyukjin, Ham Sohyun began to write.

 Chapter 235

    Chapter 235


    Ham Sohyun groaned.


    Ahh hah!


    Her eyes were pure white, and she seemed to be having a nightmare. Her hand moved, and words appeared on the yellow precognitive note.<blockquote>


    [Return to thy homnd.]


    [Thereys a path to the sky.]</blockquote>


    Ham Sohyuns body lifted into the air before slumping back down onto the bed. Sooji pulled the nket over her.


    Surprised you, didnt it? said Sooji.


    Yes, a little.


    The person next to you must be Mr. Pietro?


    Pietro flinched. You know me?


    Somewhat. I know youre an info merchant.


    Pietro nodded. Youre correct. Im Pietro, an info merchant from Italy. Im running the ck Butterfly. Its nice to meet you, Miss Cheon Sooji.


    As expected, you know who I am.


    Yes. Im keeping tabs on every Taeguk Shield guild member.


    Soojis eyes curved into crescents. Then you must also know about Taeguk Shields ultimate weapon, no, ultimate <em>secret </em>weapon?


    Hyukjin coughed. Somehow, he became known to the world as Taeguk Shields secret weapon. But really, ultimate secret weapon? It was such an embarrassing title.


    Lets settle the introductions with that, he said.


    Fine. Sohyun will wake up soon anyway.


    Pietro quickly noticed the goodwill in Cheon Soojis eyes.


    Shes different from what I found out about her.


    The Cheon Sooji he had heard about was essentially a cold-blooded rose. She didnt get close to anyone around her and was utterly frigid to anyone she considered an enemy. That was why some people called her the Unapproachable Poisonous Thorn or Poison Witch.


    Poison Witch? Poison Thorn? Not at all.


    His intel shouldnt be wrong.


    Everyone has a different side to them.


    Depending on the circumstances and ce, the same person could show multiple facets of their personality.


    That led Pietro to one conclusion. She opens up a bit around Kim Hyukjin.


    He really didnt know much about Korea. His knowledge was limited to Taeguk Shield and Wings, as well as the Tutorial Ender So Yoohyun and the PVP genius Shin Yeonseo whose smiling eyes were the talk of the towntely. He also knew the outstanding archer Hyun Junghwa.


    If I didnt know about Kim Hyukjin, it means I didnt know the first thing about Korea.


    That realization hit him anew. The Poison Witch Cheon Sooji seemed to melt into a sophisticateddy in front of Kim Hyukjin. Even the Taeguk Shield guildmaster right next to him, Song Kiyeol, deferred to Kim Hyukjin somewhat. No, not just somewhat, but <em>considerably.</em> It was no exaggeration to say Koreas true champion was Kim Hyukjin. That was Pietros judgment.


    Just then, Ham Sohyun starteding to.


    Mmm


    You okay?


    Sooji pressed a button under the bed, and the head of the bed rose with an electronic hum. With the electric bed at almost 90 degrees, Sohyun was able to sit upright.


    Here. Precognitive note. Take it.


    Ham Sohyun gestured with her eyes. Sooji knew what her friend wanted just from her eyes and picked up the precognitive note that had fallen onto the sheets.


    I can give this to Hyukjin, right?


    Yeah. Thanks. Ham Sohyun stared directly at Kim Hyukjin. I can see it.


    What?


    The great stigma enveloping you.


    What kind of stigma is it?


    Im not sure. A stigma too great and deep for someone like me to interpret is engraved on your back.


    She moved her eyes to Cheon Sooji, who asked, What? Have something to say to me?


    Dont approach him.


    That again?


    Its dangerous.


    Ive always been attracted to dangerous guys.


    Ham Sohyuns eyes once again turned white. This time, her white eyes exuded bloodthirst so potent it made Cheon Sooji flinch. A heavy stillness descended on the hospital room.


    Lowly one. Retract thy interest.


    ...


    Cheon Sooji knew Ham Sohyun wasnt the one talking right now. This wasnt her friend. Something was using Ham Sohyun as a mouthpiece.


    Im warning you, young poison girl.


    ...Do you know me?


    I do. You are the child who is following the Soundless Serpens.


    ...


    Hyukjin also realized that Ham Sohyun wasnt herself right now.


    Who is it?


    Was it a possession? A descent? Somehow, it felt a little different from those.


    The Soundless Serpens is Cheon Soojis contracted Guardian.


    Whoever it was, they had perceived Soojis Guardian. Ham Sohyun spoke again.


    Didnt this child warn you?


    Of what?


    That you might die.


    She did. Sooji smiled. She looked directly into Sohyuns white eyes. But if I was going to flee in terror because of a little warning, I wouldnt have gone for that man in the first ce.


    She licked her red lips. She was indeed Cheon Sooji.


    This just makes me want this man more.


    Kim Hyukjin felt his head start to ache. He came because Ham Sohyun said she wanted to meet him, only to find himself in a sudden love quarrel.


    What the hell is this? After a moment of hard thought, something urred to him. No way, is it Isabel?


    It had to be her.


    Isabel, its you, right? Youre awake right now, arent you?


    (I dont like her.)


    Its you, isnt it? The one using Ham Sohyuns body for an immature fight.


    (Its not immature! Im being serious right now. Whats that thing humans say again?) Isabel thought for a moment before continuing. (Right, that! Im serious business right now.)


    Apparently, Isabel had picked up some weird lingo. People didnt even say that these days.


    (Bute on, can you me me? She keepsing onto a married man!)


    Inside Hyukjins Inventory, Isabels de trembled.


    (And its even more annoying because shes pretty.)


    It was true that Cheon Sooji was pretty.


    (Seriously, why are there so many girls like her around you? Theres Shin Yeonseo, Hyun Junghwa, and Cheon Sooji. Was this somehow engineered?)


    Come to think of it, Isabel was right. It was definitely untrue that all Rankers were pretty and handsome. Hyukjin didnt know how things turned out like this, either. It was just a coincidence.


    Even so, youre the prettiest.


    In all actuality, Isabel was just a sword, and if you wanted to split hairs, she looked like a sword. No matter how you looked at it, she wasnt really pretty. Butpliments were free, and he didnt mind giving a little lip service.


    (Th-That kind of ttery isnt enough to please this noble one.) Isabels de reddened a little. (Im not happy at all. Im sleepy, so Id better go back to sleep.)


    Isabel pretended to go back to sleep, but Hyukjin knew she was wide awake. He feigned ignorance.


    Ham Sohyun regained consciousness.


    Did I say something just now?


    You told Hyukjin you loved him.


    I-I did?


    Sooji chuckled. Im joking. Anyway, Ill step out for a moment. It seems you higher-ups need to talk.


    She got up.


    See youter.


    Cheon Sooji left the hospital room.


    * * *


    * * *


    After talking to Ham Sohyun, Hyukjin and Pietro left the hospital room and headed to the parking lot, where Hyukjins driver was waiting. They got into the back seat.


    The Tutorial Building, please.


    Hyukjin was giving Pietro a ride.


    I will arrange a meeting, said Pietro.


    Please do.


    Pietro was able to set up a meeting through the conversation with Ham Sohyun.


    Miss Ham Sohyun also seems to want to meet Itachi.


    Theyre both outstanding Precognitive Dreamers, after all.


    The central reason why they want to meet Im sure you know that reason is you, Hyukjin.


    Yes. Somehow, things turned out like that.


    Pietro visited Ham Sohyun not only because he wanted to know more about her, but also in order to ry Itachis desire to meet her. Itachi got in contact with Pietro through his acquaintance Pedro, and Pietro went to Ham Sohyun to convey Itachis message.


    <em>There is a person whose future I can see all too clearly. I hear that you also have very concrete dreams when you dream about that person. What do you say to having a chat together?</em>


    Itachi proposed to meet first, and Ham Sohyun agreed. Soon, Itachi woulde to Korea to meet her.


    As he looked at the sights passing by in the mirror, Hyukjin fell deeply into thought.


    Itachi ising to Korea.


    In the past, Itachi had never left Japan.


    A change I caused.


    What further changes would this ripple create? What would the two Precognitive Dreamers discuss, and what kind of future would be drawn?


    Since the pivotal reason theyre meeting is you, it might influence you somehow.


    Perhaps.


    Your expression kind of tells me youre looking forward to it.


    Hyukjin nodded. I am. I think itll be fun.


    Pietro also looked out the window. They were pulling away from the Gwanghwamun area.


    This is really a ce where the past and present coexist. Amidst thetest buildings and slick roads, theres such a beautiful ancient pce smack dab in the heart of the city. Is that the Gwanghwamun Dungeon?


    Yes. Theres a gate there.


    It seems like there are truly many things hidden in Korea. Thank you. For opening my eyes to this country.


    The car passed the statues of King Sejong and Yi Sun-sin in the Gwanghwamun za. Pietro tilted his head.


    Huh?


    He didnt see clearly since they were going by in the car, but


    Did I just meet eyes with the Yi Sun-sin statue?


    Meeting eyes with a statue? That was odd. But Pietro had definitely felt it happen. As the car pulled away, he whipped his head back to look at the statue of Yi Sun-sin and gasped.


    The statue of Yi Sun-sin had its head turned to look at him. There was no doubt about it. Pietro looked at Hyukjin.


    Hyukjin. Dont you feel anything right now?


    I do.


    Hyukjin wasnt as taken aback as Pietro.


    Was today the day?


    He had no sense of the datetely, so he hadnt been paying close attention.


    December 22, 2018.


    A scenario would ur today, one where monsters would spawn en-masse in Gwanghwamun za. On the 22nd, for 22 hours, all manner of monsters would spill forth from the za. It couldnt be considered a terribly important event. The rewards were nothing to write home about, and no super strong monsters showed up, either. Even if Hyukjin ignored it, the nearby yers would gather to hunt them down, and the Gwanghwamun za Raid would end in 22 hours.


    But


    Hyukjin could feel it, too. Some kind of change would ur at the statue of Yi Sun-sin.


    I didnt hear anything about this in the past.


    All he heard was that a bunch of monsters showed up around the Gwanghwamun za and caused some damage. The incident ended with that.


    <em>Honk! Honk!</em>


    The air began to ring with honks from cars. A traffic jam was quickly developing.


    Sir, well get off here.


    At the same time


    <em>Whirrrrrrrr!</em>


    A siren went off overhead. It was the emergency siren, followed by an evacuation notice. Hyukjin and Pietro got out of the car.


    Pietro. Did you see it?


    Are you talking about the statue of Yi Sun-sin?


    Yes.


    I saw it. It was turning its head to stare at us.


    It wasnt doing it anymore. Hyukjin started walking first.


    It appears theres something there.


    Sh-Should Ie, too?


    Go hide over there in the underground evacuation shelter. Does your phone have a signal right now, by any chance?


    It does.


    As you evacuate, please convene my guild members for me.


    By guild, do you mean Taeguk Shield?


    Hyukjin smiled at him. Im sure youre well aware Im not talking about Taeguk Shield.


    Understood. Pietro felt butterflies in his stomach. I will call the members of Giantgod.


    It wasnt known to the public, but from what Pietro had found out, Giantgod Guild was Koreas strongest guild. The elite guild led by Kim Hyukjin would be converging in one ce.


    I already have their contact info.


    Impressive.


    The guildmaster of Giantgod was calling the guild members of Giantgod. Pietro hazarded a request.


    May Ie with you?


    He wanted to see Giantgod in action. As an information merchant, he wanted to see their potential for himself.


    I cannot protect you.


    Thats alright. I can preserve my own life.


    Then do as you wish.


    A notice came in.<blockquote>


    [The quest Gwanghwamun za Raid has begun.]</blockquote>

 Chapter 236

    Chapter 236<blockquote>


    [The quest Gwanghwamun za Raid has begun.]</blockquote>


    Shin Yeonseo heard that notice, too. She happened to be in the Tutorial Building, and as soon as she heard the notice, she ran outside.


    She got a call from Pietro.


    Who is it?


    Im an info merchant from Italy, Pietro.


    Im busy, please dont spam call me.


    Im Hyukjins friend!


    Yeonseo moved her phone to the other ear.


    Ah. Boss Hyukjins friend? You should have said so from the start.


    Do you know the Gwanghwamun za?


    Of course. I happen to be in the area.


    Hyukjin has convened the Giantgod guild members.


    Really?


    Yeonseo pumped her fist. Sweet!


    Her eyes sparkled with liveliness. Shed been bored ever since Hyukjin went to Italy to clear the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate. ying without Hyukjin didnt give her as much pleasure and catharsis as ying with him.


    Holding a lollipop in her mouth, Kim Sunhwa prodded Yeonseos side. Unnie. Those people are filming you. I think theyre streamers.


    Yeah, its fine. Let em be.


    Sunhwa grinned. Unnies be super tolerant.


    Shin Yeonseo was particrly famous these days. In other words, she was a named yer. People called her the Wiz of 1v1 PVP, and some people were even calling her the Swordswoman with the Smiling Eyes.


    Snippets of what the streamers were saying came their way.


    Yes, shes extremely pretty, Hyungnims.


    The camera really doesnt do her justice. The screen cant reproduce the real thing, Hyungnims.


    Shes really super duper pretty. Those smiling eyes are really frickin amazing.


    Yeonseos hearing was better than the average persons, so she heard what they said, as did Sunhwa.


    Next to her? Ah. She looks super young.


    But shes super pretty.


    Sunhwa shook her head. These people, it seemed they didnt have anything constructive to say other than theyre pretty. They were stealing nces at other people and filming them without permission. Normally, both Sunhwa and Yeonseo wouldnt be happy with this situation. Quite the oppositethey would find it very unpleasant. But today, they decided to let it slide.


    Looks like Yeonseo unnies in a good mood.


    Shin Yeonseo didnt like those kinds of streamers.


    And so am I!


    Both Shin Yeonseo and Kim Sunhwa were more tolerant than usual. And that was because they were in a very good mood.


    Unnie. Im getting a call, too. Sunhwa took the call. As soon as she received it, she said, Im with Yeonseo unnie. Were heading there right away. Please tell Oppa well be there soon!


    * * *


    * * *


    The area around the statue of Yi Sun-sin in Gwanghwamun za had descended into total chaos.


    Hyukjin examined his surroundings.


    I thought the evacuation had been carried out in perfect order before. There was no doubt about it. Its way messier than I remember.


    That was because the popce had encountered far too little danger.


    Well, whatever. The crisis response system is still slowlying together.


    The evacuation siren went off almost directly at the onset of the quest, and people were scrambling towards the shelters. It might not be a picture perfect evacuation, but they were getting the right idea.


    Hyukjin, Ive finished calling everyone. Jo Sunghyun and Choi Sung-gu said it might take them a bit of time.


    Thank you, good work.


    Its nothing. While I was making the calls, youve been observing this area. Probably with your special eyes. Am I right?


    Hyukjin nodded.


    I thought so.


    Pietros heart pounded. Anticipation thrilled within him. What would Kim Hyukjin show him? What would Giantgod, a guild one rank, no, two ranks above Taeguk Shield, show him? He truly looked forward to seeing how outstanding these peoplequite possibly the strongest yers in the worldtruly were.


    But then, something fell from the sky with a scream that put a crack in Pietros expectations.


    AAHHHHHH! JO SUNGHYUN, YOU SON OF A BITCH!


    Pietro jumped in rm. He whipped his head up to see what it was, only to find that it was a person.


    Isnt that


    The person in question was a fairly famous fire magician in Korea, someone who was actually a member of Giantgod Guild, Choi Sung-gu.


    From the sky?


    Pietro looked up. There was a helicopter in the sky. Choi Sung-gu was slowly floating down from the helicopter at a very controlled speed. He iled every which way while screaming like a pig in the ughterhouse, stopping only right before he hit the ground.


    Fuck. Fuck. Im scared of heights, dammit. Fuck. You fuckity fuck fuck.


    Jo Sunghyunnded lightly next to him. Were here.


    Whats with the helicopter? asked Hyukjin.


    We got a little help from the government.


    You made a contract with the government?


    Yes, yesterday. I wanted to tell you, Hyung, but you were busy.


    No, you did well.


    It was the same as the past. The Typhoon Jo Sunghyun could not turn a blind eye to injustice. He was a hero who harbored a spirit of sacrifice for the people. As such, he signed a contract with the government, one that bound him to using his power to protect the people in times of emergency.


    Have you signed the contract already?


    I wanted to do the final signing after showing it to you, Hyung. Its still a provisional contract, for now.


    Well done.


    If there was one change, it was that Hyukjin could scrutinize the yer Agreement with the government before it was signed. There were definitely pitfalls in the contract. The government would do anything and everything to avoid incurring a loss. They would try to exploit Jo Sunghyun and the other yers at the cheapest price possible using the grandiose pretext of patriotism.


    I cant let that happen.


    Devote yourself to the country? Use your strength for the people? That was all good and dandy; Hyukjin didnt intend on discouraging that. But the work had to be done for an appropriate reward. In Hyukjins opinion,bor exploitation was a hard no.


    Especially if its my party member.


    There were many yers who were used by the government and then discarded. The government did not seek absolute good; they sought profit. Since that was the case, anyone who did business with them had to know how to efficiently use each other so both sides could profit.


    The Lady of the Scales must be happy about that.


    Yes, she gave me a lot of sponsorships.


    Sung-gu finally pulled himself together. Oi, Jo Sunghyun. You bitchass motherfluffer. Didnt you hear me when I said I was scared?


    Jo Sunghyun ignored Sung-gu without even blinking. Sung-gu hyung also decided to sign the contract with me.


    OI. I said I wasnt gonna do it! I dont have any of that patriotism BS in me.


    Didnt you say you got a quest from the Giant of the Sunset?


    ...Actually, Im so happy. Wow, working with the government? Woohoo, youve made it in life, Choi Sung-gu! Fuck!


    Hyukjin grinned. The Sung-gu and Sunghyun tag team would be a big help for the government, and working together was good for their mutual growth.


    Pietro introduced himself with a few coughs. Hello, Im an info merchant from Italy named Pietro.


    After a simple round of introductions, Pietro asked the question he really wanted to ask.


    Why arent any monsters showing up around here?


    The answer was supplied by a girl who was walking up. Thats because my oppas here!


    Pietro recognized the young girl with the pretty, dazzling smile.


    Kim Hyukjins little sister, Kim Sunhwa.


    Despite being a genius tank, she wasnt as famous in Korea as her skills would suggest. If you were to pick the most famous tank in Korea, it would obviously be the guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, Song Kiyeol. The guild members of Wings were also thought to be tanks.


    Still puzzled, Pietro asked, Could I trouble you to exin?


    Its because I have Mettle. Im sure you also know about Mettle.


    Many Rankers in the top rung had Mettle. Actually, at this point in time, they probably had the lower form of Mettle, Pressure.


    Its the higher version of Pressure, Hyukjin added.


    I see. Pietro nodded. You truly have a lot of skills.


    Mettle. Guardian Tower Summoning. A ridiculous archery skill. An extraordinary movement skill (sh Step). Kim Hyukjin was like a puzzle that seemed to have more pieces with every look.


    Argh, scram!


    There was a crash, and the next moment, a car exploded.


    Oops didnt control my strength.


    A massive person lumbered towards them. It was the Tutorial Ender So Yoohyun, a very famous yer in Korea.


    Hyungnim! he bellowed. The shining jewel of the universe, So Yoohyun, hase to receive yourmand!


    Yeonseo shook her head. You have Mettle too, dont you? You should have used it on the way here.


    Oh, right! Yoohyun scratched the back of his head with his pot lid of a hand. But its no fun if I use Mettle.


    From that, Pietro noticed something strange. Come to think of it


    Monsters like Goblins, Trolls, as well as Orcs, Orc Warriors, and Lycanthropes were spawning and engaging in battle with yers around the Gwanghwamun za. But Shin Yeonseo and Kim Sunhwa had nonchntly walked through the fray looking like they hadnt fought a single monster.


    No way, it cant be that So Yoohyun, Kim Sunhwa, and Shin Yeonseo <em>all </em>have Mettle?


    Mettle wasnt a terribly rare ability, but it wasnt somon that a bunch of people could have it in the same guild.


    Giantgod Guild!


    And yet, Giantgod Guild had at least three people with Mettle. He suddenly felt d he had tagged along.


    I think theres probably something hidden in the statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin, said Hyukjin.


    If you say so, Boss Hyukjin, it must be so. Yeonseo already had her sword drawn. ying with you is the best. Im getting excited for once. Whats up with the statue?


    I dont know, either. He really didnt. But I think someone who can reveal this secret will show up around now.


    Who? Yeonseo stroked her chin, before thinking of someone. Jackson?


    Yeah.


    Is Jackson still in Korea?


    If Im right.


    In the past, the Gwanghwamun za Raid wasnt anything special. It was a scenario Hyukjin had considered unimportant, an almost everyday urrence.


    But looking at it up close, that didnt seem to be the case. There was definitely something here. The fact that it wasnt revealed meant someone had kept it a secret.


    And that person is very likely Jackson.


    Originally, Jackson was supposed to not have been in Korea at this point in time. But that same Jackson was already deeply involved in Koreas scenarios. He had yed major roles in both the Gran Seoul and Gwanghwamun Dungeons.


    Jackson is definitelying.


    Even if he didnt


    Someone else wille.


    Someone woulde to dig up the secret of the statue of Yi Sun-sin. Of course, Hyukjin kept observing with Observers Eye, but it wasnt enough.


    It appears youve been waiting for me.


    A yer with a Trantion Marble walked towards them. Sure enough, it was Jackson, the British explorer. The Great Explorer Jackson stopped in front of the statue of Yi Sun-sin.


    Somehow, I had a feeling we would meet, responded Hyukjin.


    To be honest, he was indeed waiting for Jackson. Hyukjin was looking forward to seeing him. Now that he was armed with Cognitive Dissonance Dispel, Hyukjin thought he might be able to see something else from Jackson.


    Im not seeing anything of note.


    There was no Cognitive Dissonance effect on Jackson.


    I thought that if you were here, Guildmaster Kim, you would have been waiting for me.


    Is that so?


    I suppose its something like the inevitable pull of fate.


    Behind Jackson, several yers appeared amidst the cars. Hyukjin was able to recognize them.


    Kang Woongmin the Adamant, and the Poisoned Dagger Jung Sangchul.


    They were the right and left hands of the Blood and Iron Witch Song Junghye. With them were the members of their guild, the Blood and Iron Lion. They were apparently starting to cobble together a fairly decent team.


    TN: Song Junghyes guild was originally the Blue Spearhead, but the author has changed it to Blood and Iron Lion.


    I see you have Miss Song Junghyes guild members with you, Hyukjin said.


    Yes. I n on clearing this gate with them.


    Hyukjin stared at Jackson.


    As I thought. It was Jackson.


    It was highly likely that Jackson and the Blood and Iron Lion cleared the secret thing hidden here, whatever it was. That was why the people of the world remembered this scenario as merely a small blip.


    It may have given Song Junghye wings.


    Song Junghye was not made of Blood and Iron Queen material. But what if she were to get her hands on certain serendipitous opportunities, and those opportunities were gained through Jackson? That could change things. An opportunity like this one, for example.


    Then it sort of makes sense. Hyukjin thought for a moment. Statue of Yi Sun-sin, Gwanghwamun za, Blood and Iron Lion, and Jackson. What could Song Junghye have gotten here?


    Somehow


    I have a feeling I know.


    Something that shouldnt be allowed to go into Song Junghyes possession popped into his mind, and like lightning striking a rod, he knew what he had to do.


    He knew what kind of drawing he should draw, and what kind of stage he should set.

 Chapter 237

    Chapter 237


    Song Junghye started to be famous as the Blood and Iron Queen from the Bali Naval Battle onwards.


    It was then that Song Junghye began to take off.


    Just as the Battle of the Maldives was the stage where Shin Yeonseo earned her Sword Empress name, the Bali Naval Battle was the stage where Song Junghye earned her Blood and Iron Queen moniker.


    What appeared back then was the Immortal Fleet.


    And after a very long time, even the Turtle Ship made an appearance.


    An ability that will be the Blood and Iron Queens foundation.


    He was starting to get a sense of what was happening.


    Admiral Yi Sun-sin.


    The Immortal Fleet.


    Naval battle.


    And even the Turtle Ship.


    This was where she had obtained the ability that would be herunch pad, her cornerstone, and she had gotten it with the help of the Great Explorer Jackson.


    You said you wanted to clear the Yi Sun-sin statue gate? asked Hyukjin.


    Yes. I have a key that can open it.


    With Miss Song Junghyeing over there?


    Song Junghye walked up with a scowl on her face. She spat a question at Hyukjin, her face dripping with displeasure.


    What exactly is going on here?


    Ah. Hyukjin answered, I was investigating because I felt a strange current at the statue. With my guild members.


    Shin Yeonseo chipped in. Thats why Sunghyun and Sung-gu came flying over by helicopter. <em>In advance.</em>


    Meaning, that was just how attached they were to this ce. In all truth, Yeonseo couldnt feel anything from the Yi Sun-sin statue, and she hadnt met eyes with it like Pietro had. She just jumped in after reading the mood.


    Jackson nodded.


    Seeing as all the members of Giantgod are here, its certainly true that Guildmaster Kim got to the statue first.


    Song Junghye took a step forward. Thats hardly of any importance. Guildmaster Kim Hyukjin. Do you have a key to open the gate?


    No.


    But Jackson does. They may have gotten here first, but they cant go in anyway. Well be clearing this gate as nned.


    Song Junghye felt a touch of superiority. Who cares if youe here first and wait?


    They could wait all they wanted, but they couldnt open the gate without Jackson. No matter how high and mighty Kim Hyukjin was, this gate would be cleared by her and the Blood and Iron Lion.


    Hyukjin tilted his head.


    I wonder about that.


    It was true that they couldnt get into the Immortal Fleet Gate without Jacksons help. That made Jackson the key person here, and Hyukjin knew Jackson well. In addition, he was a far more skilled negotiator than Song Junghye.


    Hyukjin continued, A small scenario called the Gwanghwamun za Raid is going on right now.


    What about it?


    If something unfortunate were to happen during the chaos, none would be the wiser.


    Something unfortunate? Kang Woongmin took a step forward from Song Junghyes side. Please watch what you say. What does something unfortunate mean, exactly? Am I being overly sensitive when I hear that as a threat?


    Someone set an assassin on me before. If I had shown any openings, I would have been murdered.


    And?


    Jung Sangchuls eyes narrowed. Kim Hyukjin was explicitly talking about him.


    I know who set the assassin on me, and I know who the assassin is.


    What does that have to do with you right now?


    Kang Woongmin bared his displeasure.


    Something unfortunate?


    Those words could only be taken to mean that Giantgod Guild would squash the Blood and Iron Lion with force, or worse, eliminate them via murder.


    He couldnt just sit around after hearing fighting words like that. As the de facto Numero Dos of Blood and Iron Lion, Kang Woongmin had to step forward. Song Junghye lifted her hand to restrain him, judging that nothing good woulde of saying more.


    Kim Hyukjin stared Song Junghye straight in the eye.


    That person knows who they are.


    Enough with the pointless talk. Lets return to the matter at hand.


    No, Im not done yet.


    Like the trained producer he was, Hyukjin activated Mettle at exactly the right time. A formless energy seeped from his body, descending on Song Junghye and the members of her guild, who instantly shrank back psychologically.


    Do you really think I turned a blind eye to people who wanted to assassinate me because Im simply too kind?


    I dont know what youre trying to say, Song Junghye gritted.


    It wasnt because Im kind.


    Song Junghyes mouth snapped shut. Her eyes dodged Hyukjins gaze. She unconsciously looked away without meaning to.


    I avoided his gaze?


    It was a huge blow to her pride. Terribly humiliated by the fact that she had looked away, Junghye jerked up her eyes and met Kim Hyukjins gaze.


    Its because I can kill them at any time. Thats why I just let them be. Because I didnt want to dirty my hands.


    ...What unpleasant nonsense are you going on about?


    Hyukjin smiled. Of course, I wasnt talking about you, Miss Song.


    Anyone could see he was talking about her, but in any case, Song Junghye suddenly found it easier to breathe. Hyukjin had stopped using Mettle.


    With just a few words, he had takenplete control over the conversation.


    Hyukjin didnt intend on killing Song Junghye anyway. Prodding the bees nest with words like something unfortunate was just to draw their attention and lead the situation into the direction he wanted. Put simply, it was a provocation.


    Jackson, have you signed a permanent partnership with the Blood and Iron Lion?


    No. Were cooperating only for this gate.


    Hyukjin knew hed answer like that. In the past, Jackson had kept his connection to the Blood and Iron Lion a tightly locked secret. Hyukjin didnt know why. But he had a suspicion the Blood and Iron Lion may have been Jacksons proxy guild, and that the same might have applied to the Blood and Iron Witch Song Junghye. Their rtionship didnt seem to be at that level yet, however.


    So hell keep it a secret now, too.


    Jackson would just say they were briefly working together, and Hyukjin was right.


    Isnt your goal to sessfully explore this gate, Jackson?


    Yes.


    I think we can be of greater assistance in achieving that goal.


    But Ive already agreed to work with Blood and Iron Lion.


    * * *


    * * *


    shing an intentional smile, Hyukjin made a slight gamble.


    Why? Did Miss Song say she wanted the Immortal Fleet?


    Oh. You know about the Immortal Fleet?


    Jacksons expression brightened with interest. He hadnt mentioned the Immortal Fleet yet, but Kim Hyukjin seemed to already know of it.


    I do. Thats why Im here.


    As I thought, Guildmaster Kim has special eyes.


    Hyukjins shot in the dark hit the bullseye. He threw the line casually, but the fish chomped right at the bait.


    That confirms it. Its possible to get the Immortal Fleet in there.


    He really couldnt afford to back down to Song Junghye then. The Immortal Fleet had disyed incredible might in the Bali Naval Battle. If it was possible to obtain, Hyukjin had to get it. He had no intention of letting the Blood and Iron Witch have it.


    Does the gate have a restriction on the number of participants?


    No, it doesnt.


    Great, then itd be great if Giantgod participated too. I think we can also be of help to you, Jackson.


    Hyukjins proposal was certainly reasonable.


    If Jackson wants to exclusively nurture Song Junghye, hell refuse.


    If Jackson refused, that could be taken as a confirmation that he wanted to back Song Junghye.


    Ill need to talk to Guildmaster Song Junghye for a moment, Jackson said, turning around.


    Some timeter, Jackson came back bearing a refusal.


    I looked into it a little more, and theres a slight problem.


    What is it?


    It seems entry is restricted to those who have personally heard a special incantation, plus their party.


    Song Junghye openly sneered. How sad. It was all in vain.


    Hyukjin didnt rise to Song Junghyes provocation. What do you mean by a special incantation?


    Somehow, Hyukjin had a feeling he knew what it was. He had certainly heard a special incantation in the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate, recited by the German archer, Schultz. A short, but meaningful incantation based on words spoken by Admiral Yi Sun-sin.


    Are you possibly referring to Seek life to die, seek death to live?


    ...


    Jackson was struck speechless.


    How did you know that?


    He who prepares can seize the future.


    To be honest, it was really pure luck this time. Hyukjin himself hadnt prepared anything; it justnded in hisp. But even as he spoke with Jackson, Hyukjin wondered to himself if it was really luck.


    Thinking about it further, he somehow had the feeling it wasnt. Ultimately, Hyukjin got the Canvas of Longing in the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate, one of the first clues leading to the Endless Sky. And the Endless Sky was the meeting ce arranged by the Demon King.


    So what if he thought of it like this? The Demon King nned for him to go into the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate, where he heard Schultzs incantation, and the Immortal Fleet could be obtained at the continuation of that n. Then wouldnt that make this not luck, but pieces lined up by someones hand?


    Its a reasonable deduction for sure.


    The Demon King.


    Just who was he, to make such arrangements? Why did he say he would be waiting for Hyukjin at the Endless Sky?


    Jackson nodded.


    Its certainly true that only those who prepare can take the future in stride. But truly, Im awed. To think you had already heard that incantation Youre really something else.


    Song Junghye grimaced like she had just stepped into dog poo.


    What the hell is happening?


    She thought this was a golden opportunity to snub Kim Hyukjin.


    Didnt he say it was almost impossible?


    Jackson said the incantation had never shown up in Korea.


    That we were the chosen ones?


    She was told only the Blood and Iron Lion was given the honor of being chosen by an explorer, and only they could go inside. But the way things were going, it seemed that wasnt at all true. She met eyes with Kim Hyukjin.


    Dammit.


    Defeat coursed through her. There wasnt a smile on his face, but in her eyes, Kim Hyukjin seemed to be smiling.


    This bastard created some kind of weird term in Italy, didnt he?


    There was a term trending in Italy: Korean Style. Just how? How the hell did he know to prepare an incantation that was necessary for a gate in Korea but didnt yet exist in the country?


    Jackson. We need to talk.


    She and Jackson talked. Kim Hyukjin could not simply be allowed to waltz in. To be honest, she was a little scared of him, and working with him was thest thing she wanted. However, she kept those feelings to herself.


    The result of their conversation was shared by Jackson.


    Lets go inside together. However, you must promise to concede everything that isnt a direct reward to me. You may not know this, but I can change the entry conditions.


    The explorer ss was truly versatile. Jackson could change the entry conditions? Hyukjin found it amusing.


    If he could, he would have already used it.


    But instead of telling him about this ability, Jackson had brought up the incantation. If Jackson didnt want to let him in, then he would have used the entry restriction ability well in advance. Hyukjin read Jackson like a book.


    I guess this means hes giving Song Junghye the impression hes actively cooperating with her, while cooperating with me on the sly.


    Notices came in.<blockquote>


    [The Whispering Devil is enjoying themselves.]


    [The Nameless Observer is observing.]</blockquote>


    The two Guardians appeared to be following the situation closely.


    If Hyukjin had to guess, the Immortal Fleet Gate was a ce of high importance, important enough to be part of the Demon Kings ns. The Guardians were probably watching very intently.


    He didnt just go in right away.


    Lets show them a little more here.


    Two chefs could create apletely different-tasting dish with the same ingredients. Walking in right away was fine too, but how delicious a scene one could produce with the same props was entirely up to the producers skill.


    The Whispering Devil is having fun, too.


    Wanting to add some seasoning before entering the gate, Hyukjin intentionally addressed Song Junghye.


    Any more conditions to add? It feels like well be in the Blood and Iron Lions debt. Id be happy to ept more conditions.


    In Kim Sunhwas eyes, her brothers smile seemed to carry a hint of wickedness.<blockquote>


    [The Whispering Devil is enjoying themselves even more.]</blockquote>

 Chapter 238

    Chapter 238


    Other Guardians began sending messages, proof that Hyukjins words had deepened their interest.<blockquote>


    [The Merchant of Venice is focusing.]


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas is having fun.]</blockquote>


    The two Guardians took the mound again, exactly as Hyukjin intended. He continued.


    Allow me to speak first.


    This gate would be one of two things. A regr gate that was cleared together, or an independent gate that created a separate instance for every party that went in.


    If its a regr gate, I will focus entirely on supporting.


    Hyukjin was an Observer anyway. It was right for him to take a supporting role. It was a given anyway, but he made it sound like he was doing them a favor, like he was actively cooperating with Song Junghye.


    But it''s likely to be an independent gate.


    He just had a hunch. When he mentioned regr gate, Song Junghyes expression shifted a little.


    Song Junghye thinks this is an independent gate.


    Jackson might have told her in advance. Hyukjin read her summary with Eye of Perception.<blockquote>


    Summary: Sovereign of Victory Brimming with Confidence</blockquote>


    She was maintaining an expressionless face, but Eye of Perception saw straight through her.


    Brimming with confidence, huh?


    It seemed she already had clues about the Immortal Fleet from Jackson. She might, for example, have something like a map. Unfortunately for Song Junghye, Hyukjin saw everything from her one summary.


    Song Junghye lifted her chin. I have one additional condition.


    Hyukjin cut her off at the appropriate time with a raised hand. He had to be the one to say the important things. The Guardians were watching, after all.


    Im not done speaking yet. Ill propose something first.


    ...


    Second. If it is an independent gate, Hyukjin said, the team that aplishes the first clear, or makes a record of the fastest time, will get the better rewards.


    Yes.


    Song Junghyes summary was still Sovereign of Victory Brimming with Confidence, which confirmed Hyukjins suspicion.


    These guys have something that will help them get a fast clear.


    Hyukjin almost let out an unconsciousugh. They were speaking under the pretext of a proposal, but this was actually a conversation that exposed all of Song Junghyes thoughts.


    Thanks for the info, he thought, while saying, As such, in consideration of the Blood and Iron Lion, we will clear the gate slowly.


    Are you looking down on us? Song Junghyes lips curled into a half-smile, as if she were certain of her victory. Giantgod should do the best Giantgod can do.


    ...


    Only then will there be no room for excuses.


    Hyukjin poked the belly of the squirrel in Stealth mode on his shoulder.


    Kim Darong. Be it a map or something else, go get whatever will help us with this clear. Shes definitely got something. Ill buy you time.


    He didnt say anything, but Kim Darong urately read his masters intent. The squirrel had been sticking his tongue out at Song Junghye as it was. A [!] popped up over Kim Darongs head as he scrambled down Hyukjins leg.


    The theft genius began his thieving. Hyukjin intentionally spoke slower.


    Is it really okay for us to do our best?


    Naturally, Song Junghye responded, failing to notice that a theft genius was looting her Inventory.


    In any case, when it came to the result, there was absolutely nothing for Kim Hyukjin to lose. Nothing to lose if it was a regr gate, and nothing to concede if it was an independent one. Hyukjin made a show of conceding everything, but in the end, he didnt relent on a single thing.


    Senia found herself making a quick shake of her head.


    While buying time, you read your opponents inner thoughts and sessfully produced a fun scene.


    Guardians sided with the yers they were attached to. Enemies of their yers were their enemies as well. Such people were like viins in a novel to the Guardians, making the bamboozling Kim Hyukjin was doing right now a hit with the Guardians.


    His scene production was a sess.<blockquote>


    [The Whispering Devil has sent a Speak of Peace, Prepare for War Strategy as a sponsorship.]</blockquote>


    Senia had mixed feelings as she looked at Song Junghye.


    Song Junghye. You need to be both a yer and producer, but


    The yers of Earth had to fulfill both roles simultaneously. But Song Junghye was incapable of that. What kinds of factors were present in the conversation between the two of them, how to seize control over the conversation and how to move forward, what to obtain and what to give up on, and how to package that Song Junghye had zero concept of such details.


    In more ways than one, she is no match for yer Kim Hyukjin.


    Senias wings quivered. She didnt know why, but she felt her mood improve.


    Kim Hyukjin turned his eyes on Jackson, observing the man as he investigated the area around the Yi Sun-sin statue.


    Cognitive Dissonance Dispel is drawing a nk.


    The explorer definitely had some kind of secret, but Hyukjin didnt know exactly what that was. A short whileter, Jackson wiped the sweat on his brow.


    Ive found the gate entrance.


    The Yi Sun-sin statue itself was the entrance. It was possible to click it by looking at it.<blockquote>


    [Immortal Fleet Gate]


    The soul and will of the Chungmugong (Lord of Loyal Valor) Yi Sun-sin culminated in the Immortal Fleet. Those who wish to seed his will and write a new page in the history of conquest, enter here.


    *Must be at least level 35 to enter


    *Independent gate


    *Upon entrance, all yers will receive the quest Battle of Hansan Ind</blockquote>


    As Hyukjin expected, it was an independent gate, one where each party would go in and y separately, but only one team would seize the best reward.


    I have a prior arrangement with the Blood and Iron Lion, so Ill be working with them, said Jackson.


    As Hyukjin thought.


    Very well.


    You must concede everything that isnt a direct reward.


    Yes, I promise.


    His objective was the Immortal Fleet item. Pietro, who had been quietly watching from the back, also realized what was going on.


    The other side must definitely have something that gives them an advantage.


    As an info merchant, he knew about independent gates. This gate could end up being a big waste of effort. In addition, his ability informed him that the difficulty of this gate was far from low.


    For now, Guildmaster Kim Hyukjin has the overwhelming win pre-gate.


    The opponent was Song Junghye of Sungshin. Just how many people in Korea could crush Song Junghye so soundly? The only problem was that there was no knowing how things would pan out inside the gate.


    Lets wait and see.


    Pietro decided to observe Kim Hyukjin. He could feel that the gate was extremely difficult, but he had a strange feeling.


    Somehow


    The back of the man walking in front of him looked broad. Reliable.


    I cant wait.


    He entered the gate.<blockquote>


    [Entering the Immortal Fleet Gate.]</blockquote>


    His surroundings instantly darkened, and Pietro was unable to see a thing. A narration started to y.


    * * *


    * * *<blockquote>


    [We set off in the morning and reached the dock at Dangpo straightaway. Twenty enemy ships were moored in a line. We surrounded them and engaged inbat, but one of the big ships seemed to be a panokseon of our country. The mast on the ship was around two jang (6.66 meters) high, and the Japanesemander on the observation tform sat imperiously, unmoving. We let loose a rain of crossbolts, cannonballs, and bullets. When the Japanesemander was struck by an arrow and fell, the entirety of the Japanese forces scattered in a panic.]</blockquote>


    This was a familiar record to Kim Hyukjin. It was from the famous War Diary of Admiral Yi Sun-sin, the diary written by the Lord of Loyal Valor Yi Sun-sin during the Japanese invasions of Korea of 1592-1598. An excerpt from the diary was read out, meaning this scenario was directly or indirectly based on that event.<blockquote>


    [The quest Battle of Hansan Ind has been triggered.]</blockquote>


    Fog rolled in, and the darkness faded a little. The cawing of seagulls sounded above, and the ground rocked underneath him.


    They were on a ship. As soon as they entered the gate, the quest began.


    A rocking ship. The fog began to slowly clear, revealing the world around them. The booms of guns going off. The sharp smell of gunpowder. The wind blowing in from different directions, carrying the reek of blood and salt.


    This setting was one that Hyukjin had indirectly experienced before.


    A naval battle.


    It hadnt made its debut yet, butter, naval battles would erupt in various parts of the world. One such battle was the Bali Naval Battle that jump started the Blood and Iron Queen Song Junghyes worldwide fame.


    Hyukjin heard a voice.


    Seek life to die, seek death to live.


    It was a sentence Hyukjin had already heard. Words murmured by Schultz, the German yer who lost his life in the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate in the past. Famous words spoken by the great Yi Sun-sin.


    Those who seek death shall live, those who seek life shall die.


    A naval battle was raging on with no heed to Hyukjin and his party. Ships shed hull to hull, and shouts rang out around them.


    <em>Thump! Thump! Thump! Thump!</em>


    The drums thumped a heart-pounding beat, and a steel rain of arrows spanned the sky. A few vessels sank, and faceless soldiers fell into the sea. He heard a voice again.


    Help us and annihte the enemy.


    A quest to annihte the enemy?


    Is it really that simple?


    If it was, all they had to do was take this fleets side and destroy the other sides fleet.


    No.


    That wasnt all. Hyukjin pulled out apass. It was one of two items Kim Darong had swiped from Song Junghyes Inventory, apass and a hangover elimination item called Miracle.


    Thepass pointed at one ship floating serenely in the distance.


    Thats the gship.


    It was, so to speak, the boss.


    Aha. Its a tool that tells you who the boss is.


    Why was this item necessary? Was victory conferred to whoever destroyed the gship? Hyukjin had a suspicion it wasnt that simple.


    Boss Hyukjin, said Yeonseo. What should we do now?


    Well take this side and destroy the other one.


    Is that all?


    No.


    I thought so. Somethings weird.


    Yeonseo had picked up on the strangeness of the situation as well. She couldnt quite put a finger on what it was, but something was off. The info merchant Pietro put that strangeness in concrete terms.


    This side has an overwhelming advantage in strength. So much so that they dont need our help.


    In this battle between two fleets, their side had just twelve vessels, while the other side obviously had over fifty. But despite that, the battle was going extremely well for their side. The twelve ships were spread out in a wide crane wing formation, effectively surrounding countless enemy ships.


    Just from the deluge of mana bullets alone, one thing was clear.


    This side is way stronger.


    So why? Why were they given a quest requesting their help?


    <em>Ba-boom!</em>


    <em>Boom!</em>


    <em>Ba-ba-boom!</em>


    Every time the ships from this side fired a cannonball, every time they fired arrows, every time they shot some unknown beam of light, the ships of the other side were quick to splinter or break. Maybe their side was being protected by a special barrier, because they didnt take the slightest amount of damage.


    This side is overwhelmingly stronger, but we were given a quest to help them.


    A naval battle scenario, raging on regardless of the Giantgod Guilds presence.


    This gates name is the Immortal Fleet Gate.


    So that was what it was. Hyukjin realized what this gate wanted from Giantgod Guild, what it was demanding from the yers.


    Those guys are the Immortal Fleet.


    They were weak, but


    Theyll revive nonstop.


    Their side might be overwhelmingly stronger, but with time, the other side would creep closer to victory. They were, after all, the Immortal Fleet. They would constantly revive, almost like monsters respawning.


    Theres no need to drag things out.


    The longer they took, the more disadvantageous the situation would be.


    I bet Jackson clued into it faster than me.


    It was highly likely Jackson grasped the scenario as soon as he came in. Thankfully, Hyukjins party had thepass.


    Were going for the gship.


    As well as the target within.


    Theres a boss on that ship. Thats the gship. Hyukjin pointed. The ship with the g with a red circle on it. Its the crux.


    Choi Sung-gu tilted his head. How are we gonna take it down? Itll be tough with just me and Sunghyun. Its too far away, and it looks like it has a shield.


    Ill be the main DPS.


    Sung-gu looked at him in puzzlement. Huh? How? You dont have the ckfire Bow anymore.


    Hyukjin continued without answering Sung-gus question, telling the party what they should do and how they would clear this ce.

 Chapter 239

    Chapter 239


    Choi Sung-gu didnt know yet that Hyukjin could use mana to make a ckfire Bow, since it was a technique Hyukjin had shown for the first time in the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate. However, he didnt insist on an exnation.


    Its Kim Hyukjin, after all. Hell pull it off somehow.


    Hyukjin continued speaking.


    Ill be the main, Sunghyun and Sung-gu will support.


    You really intend on being the main, huh.


    Sung-gu realized that Hyukjin was going to use a fire element ability. Even in his eyes, his guildmasters fire affinity was beyond imagination. It wouldnt be at all unusual if such a person said he was using a fire spell.


    But to Sung-gus surprise, Hyukjin pulled out a bow.


    A bow?


    Not magic, but a bow? But as Sung-gu watched, the bow suddenly changed.


    A bow with ck mes


    It wasnt a regr item. Even Sung-gu could see that. Kim Hyukjin was currently consuming his mana to temporarily create a new item.


    Hah, you crazy mofo. Sung-gu shook his head in amazement. It must suck up a ton of mana.


    Kim Hyukjin was one crazy yer, yes, but Sung-gu had his own role to y.


    Lets just focus on supporting.


    Sung-gu added his mes onto the ckfire Bow. He might be shadowed by Hyukjins genius, but Choi Sung-gu was a magician talented enough to represent a nation, and that talent was further boosted by the Tome of the Divine Fire Physique.


    Sung-gus fire attribute mana wreathed the ckfire Bow. Jo Sunghyun also realized exactly what he had to do.


    I will increase the uracy and destructive power.


    When assisting Sung-gu, the wind magician put a greater focus on uracy rather than destructive power. But right now, the main DPSer was Kim Hyukjin.


    Hyukjin hyung doesnt need any help with uracy from me.


    Certain that was the case, Sunghyun focused on increasing the destructive power. Blue wind formed at his hands.


    The moment you fire your arrow, Hyung, Ill support the arrow in my own unique way.


    Hyukjin nodded.


    gship.


    He observed it with Observers Eye. The world fell away, a sensation he had already experienced many times. The gship loomedrge in his eyes. It felt as though he were looking at it with a magnifying ss, or that it wasing closer.


    I cant just destroy it.


    An image drew itself out in his head. His foes had the ability to revive. They had something that allowed them to do so, something like a mana crystal.


    And that <em>thing </em>wasnt an item.


    Its him.


    The facelessmander in golden armor sitting high on the gship tform, he was the key.


    Hes my target.


    The man was so far away he couldnt be seen with the naked eye, but he was visible when seen through Observers Eye.


    Whats his weakness?


    As a human-type monster, his greatest weaknesses were naturally the head and heart. But Hyukjin aimed elsewhere.


    Around his belly button.


    Powerful mana was billowing from his abdomen. Hyukjin was sure that was the mana of revival. There was something near themanders stomach, and only by destroying it would this naval battlee to an end.


    <em>Hunters March</em>.


    He could also use Conductors Hymn, but Hyukjin only used Hunters March this time. He focused more on boosting his abilities rather than buffing his guild members.


    The ckfire arrow that had reaped the lives of many Gryphons zed in his bow.


    Ill kill him.


    Hyukjin fired. Pietro witnessed the ckfire Bow in action once again. Just as he had seen when Hyukjin was killing the Gryphons, the arrow that shot off held tremendous power.


    The ckfire arrow whizzed over the ocean, carving a shallow path in the waters below.


    <em>Tzzzz!</em>


    Uponing in contact with ckfire, the water vaporized into a cloud of steam so thick it could be mistaken as fog. The wickedly hot steam brought the battle to an instant standstill.


    Pietro stared in dumb amazement.


    Its way stronger than back then.


    Had Kim Hyukjin experienced some rapid growth? No, that didnt seem to be the case. This wasnt just Kim Hyukjin. It was so powerful because of Choi Sung-gu and Jo Sunghyuns assistance.


    Giantgod Guild is this strong?


    What he was seeing far outstripped his expectations. How could they achieve such power with a single arrow?


    Goosebumps rose on his arms.


    Theyre <em>this </em>capable, but arent that well known?


    Giantgod had far less name recognition than Taeguk Shield or Wings. To Pietro the info merchant, that was what he found most frightening.


    This guild is a gathering of insane individuals.


    But that was, in fact, somewhat of a misunderstanding. Choi Sung-gu and Jo Sunghyun were also surprised. Although they had assisted with all their might, neither of them had expected such a result.


    There was still a shallow trail in the water where the ckfire Bows arrow had flown. The ocean was split with a fissure thirty centimetres deep, and upon closer inspection, ck mes were burning along the surface of the trail.


    Oi, Jo Sunghyun, whispered Sung-gu. What the hell is this?


    I dont know, either.


    Have we always been this crazy fuckin strong?


    You know very well thats not the case.


    Sung-gu and Sunghyun were just as bewildered. They stared at Hyukjin, who was, unlike them, feeling a strange sense of tion.


    * * *


    * * *


    Just now


    There was no System notice. But Hyukjin could analyze it with Observers Eye.


    Tome of the Divine Bow Physique.


    Tome of the Divine Fire Physique.


    Tome of the Divine Wind Physique.


    The three tomes came together and produced a synergistic effect. That was also why Sung-gu and Sunghyun could work so well together. Hyukjin examined the phenomenon closer with Observer Eyes innate ability, Authority Analysis.


    He focused.<blockquote>


    [Analyzing authorities.]


    [Confirming the presence of three tomes.]


    [The three tomes have astonishing fusion capability.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin hadnt intended it, but his already activated Observers Eye actively assisted him.<blockquote>


    [Unique Ability Fusion has taken effect on the astonishing fusion capability.]</blockquote>


    Through Unique Ability Fusion, the three different types of unique abilities weaved a Kim Hyukjin-exclusive arrow in a Kim Hyukjin-exclusive way. The result was an arrow so powerful it surprised even Hyukjin himself.


    Observers Eye continued analyzing.<blockquote>


    [You have seeded in fusing three tomes for the first time.]


    [You have precisely analyzed the entire process.]


    [A hidden condition has been fulfilled.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjins ears pricked up at the notices. He had just triggered a hidden piece, his first in a while. Senia appeared right on cue, turning the field gray with a Pause authority. Apparently, Senia had be quite wealthy.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. Can you exin what is going on right now?


    I seeded in fusing three tomes and analyzed the process. With my ss-exclusive skill.


    That must be what triggered the hidden piece.


    Hyukjin realized something.


    This must be one of the hidden pieces in the manual.


    It seemed like a hidden piece Senia already knew, an arrangement put in ce by the System rather than a product of chance. Hyukjin had unrooted one such hidden piece.


    Thats right.<blockquote>


    [One location where a tome is slumbering will be made known to you.]


    [Generating the conditions to acquire the tome.]</blockquote>


    I can choose one of various tomes. Ill also know where it can be found.


    yer Kim Hyukjin, do you know about the types of tomes?


    He had a general gist, though he didnt know every type. Hyukjin intentionally smiled.


    Nope, I dont.


    In that case, may I share the information in the manual with you?


    He knew that was what Senia would do. But Hyukjin shook his head.


    No.


    Howe? You will be able to make a more efficient choice with the information from the manual. That is my role as your exclusively contracted Intermediate Administrator.


    He expected this line from Senia and was letting her say it to emphasize to the Guardians that checking the manual was the natural thing to do. From the manual, he could learn what kinds of tomes existed, and how they could be used. However, he intentionally didnt do that.


    It wasnt a very big one, but he was using the unexpected twist technique.


    I already have my answer.


    Whether he checked the manual or not, he knew which tome he was going for anyway, and his answer wouldnt change. That was why he said he wouldnt check the manual. That was, after all, the all-too natural and sensible choice, the obvious choice.


    From the viewpoint of the Guardians, developments that werent too obvious, developments that slightly overturned their expectations, were better.


    However, the developments also have to satisfy their hype.


    The producer Kim Hyukjin knew very well how to achieve that.


    My choice is


    He decided to make a lightning-quick choice without even checking the manual.


    ...the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique.


    Can you exin your reasoning?


    Because I have Isabel, a transcendent item.


    Is that all?


    Also because I have an extremely important scenario rted to the Sword Forest.


    The Sword Forest scenario involving Elder Bufafa was certainly content the Guardians would greatly enjoy. To put it this way, the current conversation was a teaser, one that would hype up the Guardians.


    He heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [The location of the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique is made known to you.]</blockquote>


    A map was deposited in his Inventory. Upon opening it, the location automatically registered in his head, and the map disappeared.


    But something was a little odd.


    Wait, isnt this


    It was a ce he knew.


    Plum Blossom Ind?


    That was the ce Hyukjin had intended on visiting before.


    The Centipede Cave on Plum Blossom Ind.


    But because the same gate appeared in the park in front of the DMC Riverview Xi, he ended up not going there. Hyukjinbed through his memories.


    I cleared the ce that showed up in the park with Choi Sung-gu.


    And through their achievements there, they got a Predator Tree Colony map. He had thought it strange back then as well.


    Why had a Centipede Cave opened in the central park in front of his house?


    He had his doubts, but he was never able toe to a conclusion.


    Senia. How much time is left in the Pause?


    If yer Kim Hyukjin wants, I can extend it by another five minutes.


    Please extend it.


    Understood.


    Like a good yer and Streamer pair, Senia took initiative to ask the question on everyones mind.


    Is there some sort of secret hidden in the location of the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique?


    I dont know exactly yet.


    But it seems as though you have discovered something of note.


    Yeah. Hyukjin exined, Normally, gates with the exact same name and content dont exist, right?


    Thats almost always true, yes.


    But I once cleared an identical gate. Remember it?


    Are you talking about the Predator Tree Colony?


    Yeah.


    The Predator Tree Colony. He had cleared two Predator Tree Colonies in two different ces. And he had uncovered a secret there.


    I acquired information there about an unknown being who is artificially cultivating Predator Trees.


    At first, he thought only that was strange. But he had the feeling it was connected to something more. It was as if he were originally looking at a corner of the canvas and was zooming out to see the bigger picture.


    Little by little, piece by piece, he started to see things he hadnt before.

 Chapter 240

    Chapter 240


    He still didnt know what it was, but what was important was that he had grasped a clue. Because even with just a clue, the attention of the Guardians was sufficiently piqued.


    That means the Predator Tree Colony isnt just an ordinary ce you clear and forget.


    There was another element involvedCEO Song Kiyoung, who was contracted with the Golden-Horned Dokkaebi. The key that could save the Golden Sovereign had appeared in the Predator Tree Colony.


    Thats not all.


    The Predator Tree Colony was special in many ways.


    I can generate a Predator Tree Colony with my [True Ruler of the Predator Tree Colony] title.


    A yer, generating a field? That was way out of the bounds ofmon sense, of conventional wisdom. There were many oddities involved.


    Understood, said Senia. But does that have anything to do with the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique?


    Ive been given the location of a slumbering Tome of the Divine Sword Physique.


    Where is it?


    Plum Blossom Ind. In the Centipede Cave on the ind.


    The Centipede Cave Thats the ce where you acquired the map of the Predator Tree Colony you mentioned earlier.


    This conversation wasnt really just between Kim Hyukjin and Senia. It was pretty much feeding information and messages to the Guardians in the form of a discussion.


    Isnt it strange? There are two identical Centipede Caves in two ces, and two Predator Tree Colonies in two ces. Clearing one Centipede Cave led to discovering the Predator Tree Colony, where a big secret was hidden within. The two gates werent just one and dheyve continued to influence me all this time.


    That leads one to think that some kind of secret is hidden in the Centipede Cave Gate.


    If what Im predicting is right, yes.


    About three minutes had passed.


    Approximately two minutes are left in the Pause authority.


    After I clear this ce, Im heading straight to the Centipede Cave on Plum Blossom Ind.


    Understood.


    There was a mountain of things to do, but the Centipede Cave jumped straight to the top of the list. He just had a feeling that was what he needed to do. The reason why he told Senia he was immediately going to the Centipede Cave was a teaser of sorts for the Guardians.


    If theres a big secret hidden in the Centipede Cave and Predator Tree Colony, and the Guardians hear about it, itll pull in a lot of Guardians.


    The more keen the Guardians were to watch, the better. Creators of unique content were bound to be cherished.


    The Pause authority has one minute left.


    Hyukjin nodded. The scenario would continue where it left off. Before he could do anything else, he first had to finish the Battle of Hansan Ind quest.


    One minute passed.<blockquote>


    [The Pause has ended.]</blockquote>


    * * *


    * * *


    Jackson smiled good-naturedly. The Compass had been swiped right out of Song Junghyes Inventory, disappearing without a single trace.


    Is that so? Hahaha. Weve been had.


    You canugh in this situation?


    What else can I do? The one who lost it is you, Miss Song Junghye.


    Jackson was still wearing a good-natured smile, but it made Song Junghye flinch. A smile was on his lips, but there was faint rage in his eyes.


    Well, we cant do anything about it now.


    Jackson shrugged. The pressure that had squeezed Song Junghye for the slightest moment faded, so short-lived she thought she just imagined it.


    Well find ourselves in a naval battle. We need to find the opponents gship and kill themander on that ship. Jackson rattled off an exnation, almost as if he already knew the ins and outs of this gate. Their ship has considerable resistance to ranged attacks. The System exnation is that the ship possesses an outstanding shield due to weathering prolonged battle between warships.


    The guild members of the Blood and Iron Lion listened closely to Jacksons words.


    A ranged attack isntpletely out of the question, but our ultimate goal is the enemymander. Only by killing themander will the Immortal Fleet copse.


    The Poisoned Dagger, Jung Sangchul, stepped forward. So we need to get into closebat somehow and kill him.


    If we can get there, yes.


    It was quite the distance. The naval battle scenario had already begun.


    After a certain amount of time, the gship and enemymander will change. Thats the inherent challenge of this gate.


    Jung Sangchul asked, Does that mean that if we cant make it to themander and kill him in time, well have wasted our time?


    Yes. With the Compass, we could have immediately found the enemymander, but unfortunately, because Guildmaster Song Junghye lost it


    I didnt lose it. It was <em>stolen </em>from me. Jackson.


    Ah, right. Stolen. Well, in any case, it doesnt change the fact that the Compass is gone.


    Song Junghyes eyebrows twitched.


    Son of a bitch. Jacksons words sounded like ridicule in her ears. Both Kim Hyukjin and Jackson, I dont like either of them.


    She resolved to one day inherit Sungshin, nurture the Blood and Iron Lion into an industry giant, and then crush both Jackson and Kim Hyukjin. For now, she would make full use of Jacksons ability. The man was a trulypetent explorer.


    I prepared a little something for getting close.


    Jackson took out a capsule-like object from his Inventory and tossed it into the sea, where it turned into a modern motorboat.


    This is a high-performance motorboat. It will block most attacks with a shield and can carry a max of four people.


    The members of the Blood and Iron Lion paid close attention. They hadnt thought Jackson would have such a thing in his Inventory. He was indeed a shockingly capable explorer.


    A total of four yers boarded the ship, including Jung Sangchul and Kang Woongmin.


    Well go and destroy the enemymander, barked Kang Woongmin.


    But just then, Jacksons smile faltered. His ever-constant smile suddenly stiffened.


    Song Junghye picked up on it. What is it? she asked tersely.


    ...


    Whats wrong?


    I-Its nothing. Jackson smiled again. Id like us to clear this quickly, but safely.


    Now, there was no point in clearing quickly.


    Giantgod Guild has already cleared the gate.


    That was unexpected, even to Jackson. No, this was overwhelmingly outside of his expectations. Jackson could feel that this independent gate had already been cleared once. And of course, the team behind it was Kim Hyukjins.


    How?


    Had they used a ranged attack? That <em>was </em>the fastest way.


    No. Its not possible for yers in the current beginner period.


    It <em>might </em>be possible. Maybe it could be done if three or so tome items bearing unprecedented powerthe ones called divine tomeswere brought together in one massive burst.


    There are very, very few people who have tome items at this point in time.


    He did get the feeling either Jo Sunghyun or Choi Sung-gu had absorbed a tome. It was already amazing for a guild to have one tomed person.


    Jackson smiled bitterly.


    There goes the first clear reward


    The first clear reward was none other than Immortal Fleet, a sovereign-exclusive skill that could summon the Immortal Fleet. With that power, a sovereign was nigh-undefeatable by any yer on water.


    Jackson already knew.


    Guildmaster Kim Hyukjin has obtainedmand over the Immortal Fleet.


    After quite some time, the four yers finally seeded in killing the enemymander, and the Battle of Hansan Ind quest was cleared.


    Song Junghye was unable to conceal her happiness.


    Well done, you four.


    They had pulled it off faster than she expected. The gship hadnt changed a single time. As expected, her subordinates were remarkable.<blockquote>


    [Distributing clear rewards for the Immortal Fleet Gate.]</blockquote>


    She received a few rewards, rewards that made Song Junghye certain that something had gone awry.


    Outside the gate, she rounded on Jackson with an expression of anger.


    Didnt you say there would be an incredible reward?


    There was. But it was taken away.


    How can that be? We immediately killed the enemymander. Are you sure you werent lying to me?


    But just then, she heard a voice. It was the rude prick Kim Hyukjin.


    He wasnt lying.


    ...Guildmaster Kim Hyukjin? How is it that youre here?


    He shouldnt have been able to clear the gate yet, but he was outside.


    Looks like we were about three seconds faster.


    In truth, it wasnt just three seconds, but almost one minute faster. Song Junghyes face reddened at the words.


    Youre the one who stole mypass, arent you?


    Compass? Whats that? Thats a thing?


    Hyukjin feigning ignorance made Song Junghyes rage grow.


    Tell me straight out! You stole it, admit it! You son of a bitch!


    Hyukjin wagged his finger. Youll invite trouble by using people without evidence. There are many onlookers. Is this really okay?


    Hyukjin was already using Cognitive Dissonance. The Gwanghwamun za Raid was still ongoing, and as a result, there were many reporters on-site.


    Dont you think its better to devote yourself to protecting the innocent citizens of Gwanghwamun za and boost the Blood and Iron Lions image rather than to quarrel with me here?


    ...


    If you insist on continuing, itll be a blow to Blood and Iron Lions status. Youll be super angry when people cuss you out as fools who couldnt do a thing.


    Giantgod was different from Blood and Iron Lion. People didnt know much about Giantgod and didnt expect much from them. But Sungshins Blood and Iron Lion Guild was well-known, and that fame came with certain expectations.


    Song Junghye clenched her teeth.


    You damn little


    Thepass was one thing, but he had also stolen the first clear reward. Whatever the hell he did, she had the feeling he had cheated her.


    Ill crush you for sure.


    Song Junghye whirled around, then gave amand to the guild members of Blood and Iron Lion.


    Were tidying this ce up.


    Since things had yed out this way, she at least had to farm some honor.


    Help the innocent civilians and wipe out all the damn monsters.


    * * *


    After rebuffing the meddling Song Junghye, Kim Hyukjin went to the real issue at hand.


    Jackson. I heard your conversation with Miss Song earlier.


    Song Junghye had said this: <em>Didnt you say there would be an incredible reward?</em>


    Which meant it was highly likely Jackson had already known of the existence of that incredible reward. Hyukjin was truly curious.


    Did you know exactly what kind of reward would be given by the Immortal Fleet Gate, Jackson?


    If so


    How did you know?


    And


    Do you also know when, where, and how itll be used?


    The Immortal Fleet would make a huge ssh in the Bali Naval Battle. That was where Song Junghyes fame took off. If Jackson already knew about the Immortal Fleet and purposefully brought Song Junghye here, it would mean that Song Junghye ruing merits in the Bali Naval Battle was something Jackson had devised.


    His questions were different, but the true meaning was the same.


    Did you truly puppeteer Song Junghye in the past?


    Jackson shrugged.


    Well, alright. Ill be honest.


    The Great Explorer Jackson began to speak.

 Chapter 241

    Chapter 241


    I have special eyes.


    That was normally Kim Hyukjins line, but Jackson was saying he had such eyes as well. Hyukjin remembered the covert energy Jackson had directed at him when they met before.


    I thought it was something like the Eye of Truth


    Additionally, a certain power was protecting him from Eye of Perceptions gaze.


    What kind of eyes?


    I have an innate ability that can analyze anything, be it a person or a thing. It doesnt matter what it is. I can analyze it if its within the bounds of my ability.


    In that case, how much did you analyze about the Immortal Fleet Gate?


    It struck Hyukjin again that Jacksons Korean was no worse than a native Koreans. The explorer was so fluent that if you listened to him with your eyes closed, you wouldnt be able to tell at all that he was a foreigner. But in the past, Jackson acted like he didnt know a speck of Korean. He was indeed a suspicious individual.


    I analyzed that if the Immortal Fleet Gate was cleared, you would gain a special authority called [Immortal Fleet].


    Thats spot on.


    And thatter, that authority would be very powerful in a naval battle somewhere.


    Where is that somewhere?


    Bali.


    Im nning on looking into that starting now.


    What did the Guardians really want to see? What other abilities did Jackson have? To Hyukjin, Jackson was a big variable, one he couldnt read nor predict. Jacksons current actions were also considerably different from the past.


    With a variable like this the Guardians will go crazy for it.


    What story was without its turns and twists? A work could only shine with the inclusion of a side character who added some degree of danger, created a crisis (or perhaps an opportunity), and thwarted the protagonists expectations.


    Right now, Jackson was that kind of side character to Kim Hyukjin.


    By naval battle, you mean a battle in the ocean.


    Yes. That is how I analyzed it.


    Try going to Bali.


    Jackson looked nkly at Hyukjin. Bali?


    Bali, an ind of Indonesia.


    Alright. Ill give exploring Bali a shot, as per your suggestion.


    Is your ss name still [Exploring Baptist]?


    Why do you ask?


    I just have a feeling that you have an evolving ss.


    In the past, Jackson said his ss was called Exploring Pilgrim. Hyukjin tried confirming it.


    Yes, its Exploring Baptist. But just like you say, I think it will evolve someday. Though, isnt that amon urrence? We also call that ss advancement.


    Hyukjin nodded. Youre right.


    Jackson lowered his voice. Hyukjin. Dont you remember what I said before?


    He remembered it word by word.


    Those who see the future must fear the future. There is nothing more foolish and reckless than divulging the future that is toe. Thats what you said.


    Speaking of the future came with big side effects. That was a known fact. Most Precognitive Dreamers died early or grew ill. Some people said divulging the secrets of the heavens incurred their wrath.


    But you foresaw Bali. Jackson grabbed Hyukjins hands. And you told me about it despite knowing the side effects. Youre as unrestrained as always.


    Hyukjin hadnt expected Jacksons response. This wasnt what he had been going for.


    As I thought, my eyes werent wrong about you. Do you remember what I said when I first met you?


    Jackson had said this:


    <em>Thats why I am so happy and d to have met someone like you. Its kind of like Ive met a brother in arms with the same intent.</em>


    Hyukjin was dumbfounded.


    He was being sincere back then, and hes being sincere now.


    And just like back then, he felt a strange sense of dj vu. It was all too natural, but also strange. If you were to ask Hyukjin what <em>exactly </em>was strange, he still wouldnt have an answer. It was just strange.


    In some ways, the Immortal Fleet going into your hands might actually be a good thing. Though its unfortunate for Miss Song.


    How long do you n on holding onto my hands?


    Ah. Im sorry. Jackson let go and stepped back. Have you, by any chance


    He dropped a meaningful question.


    ...ever thought about bing a king?


    The question had be a little more specific thanst time. Originally, Jackson said he was looking for the Eastern Star. Now, he was asking whether Hyukjin had ever thought about bing a king.


    You seem to have found out a little more about the king.


    Yes, I have. But Ill refrain from saying anything on that front.


    Hyukjin grinned. The man was indeed a variable. He knew things even Hyukjin, a regressor, didnt.


    Hyukjin almost had to wonder if a living scenario would be something like this, a scenario where even the author or producer didnt know what would happen next. Things would be rough if the future that was toe was pure adversity or hardship, but what if it was a scenario with just the right amount of suspense and hidden secrets?


    Ill be writing that narrative.


    Excellent. Crossing paths with Jackson was always interesting.


    If you find a clue of some kind in Bali, please give me a call, said Hyukjin.


    Very well.


    He, Kim Hyukjin, would hold the bat on the mound where Song Junghye won her title of Blood and Iron Queen. He already knew the details of the Bali Naval Battle. Since he knew the strat, there was no reason not to get involved.


    Someday, when I have fully discerned your qualifications, I will anoint your head with oil.


    Can I take that to mean that I am one of the potential kings you speak of?


    For now. Jackson bowed. Well then, we shall meet again in Bali.


    Jackson walked away.


    * * *


    * * *


    Hyukjin acquired a special ability called [Immortal Fleet]. Since he was checking the new skill anyway, he decided to look over his full status window.<blockquote>


    [Status Window]


    Name: Kim Hyukjin (yer)


    Level: 39


    Contracted Guardian: [Nameless Guardian]


    Title: [Pioneer of Victory] [Excellent yer] [First Adversary] [Pure Person of Fire] [Phantom Thief Squirrels Master] [Starting Sovereign] [Starting Fighter] [Thousand Dog Master]


    Dungeon title: [True Ruler of the Gran Seoul Dungeon] [True Ruler of the Predator Tree Colony]


    Innate ability: [Eye of Perception] [Sword of Insight]


    Special ability: [Absorption] [Mettle] [Eye for an Eye, Tooth for a Tooth] [Immortal Fleet]


    Trait: Divine Bow Physique


    Strength: 24


    Intelligence: 24


    Agility: 30


    Perception: 24


    Constitution: 24


    Willpower: 17 (+30)


    Bonus stats: 20


    Random stats: 25


    Undistributed stats: 45</blockquote>


    He read the description of Immortal Fleet.<blockquote>


    [Immortal Fleet]


    Battles by summoning an undying fleet. Can only be summoned on the ocean. The summon duration and fleets fighting prowess will be determined by the summoners Willpower.


    *Number of summonable vessels: 12


    *Upon fulfilling a special incantation, the Willpower consumption markedly decreases.</blockquote>


    Twelve vessels. In other words, a whole fleet. It looked like summoning and maintaining the fleet depended on the Willpower stat.


    But man, my Status Window sure has a lot of stuff.


    It was good that all the info was automatically saved in his head by the System; trying to read through all of that would have made his eyes ache. He knew people in the expert period in his past life had a diverse range of titles and innate abilities like this. He also knew many werent able to get special abilities.


    Actually, that might not be true.


    What Hyukjin was experiencing now was the world of the top Rankers. He wasing in contact with advanced info and scenarios the public could nevere close to knowing.


    Its just that the public wasnt told. Who knows? yers in the expert period might have had a ton of abilities.


    But even then, they were still in the beginner period right now. Kim Hyukjin was probably the only yer with this many abilities in the beginner period.


    Irreceable content.


    That was the goal he had chased, and by his estimation, he was running along at quite the efficient clip. But running wasnt enough. He had to fly. Not only did he have to protect Sunhwa from the devil casper possessing her body, but he himself wanted to be stronger.


    He thought back to Jacksons question earlier.


    <em>Have you, by any chance, ever thought about bing a king?</em>


    He didnt want to be a king. If he did, he would have walked in the spotlight from the start. Instead of using Taeguk Shield as a front, he would have done everything himself, all while ying the Sovereign of Observation ss he told Jackson he had.


    But I want to be strong enough that even a king cannot do as he pleases with me.


    That was Hyukjins desire, pure and simple. An extremely natural wish, just like wanting to earn money, live well, and be happy.


    Now, now, Boss Hyukjin. Whatre you thinking about so hard? bantered Shin Yeonseo. She had rented out an entire fried chicken restaurant in downtown Seoul. Just have a ss of beer.


    Yeonseo tried to put her arm over his shoulder, but he slid away. She gulped down her beer without missing a beat.


    Kya! Im getting drunk, seriously.


    Around thirty people died in the Gwanghwamun za Raid today. The members of the Blood and Iron Lion took action, and inbination with Taeguk Shield and Wings, the raid was stopped. Nowadays, people dying or getting injured by monsters was a part of everyday life, just as normal as car idents. People were used to monster attacks.


    Thirty people had died right in the middle of Seoul, but there were no big memorials or anything. There was absolutely nothing weird about Giantgod Guild having a small party in a fried chicken restaurant, just like how people partied and drank when there were fatal car idents in downtown Seoul.


    Meanwhile, the transparent Senia found herself seriously wondering what she was doing.


    Why am I streaming such a trivial scene?


    There were definitely Guardians who liked slice-of-life content, but they were a tiny minority.


    Why am I here?


    Many Guardians left her channel. Just then, Senia got a message.<blockquote>


    [The Arrow-Shooting Cupid offers the Intermediate Administrator Senia a proposal.]


    [The Arrow-Shooting Cupid offers a mission with a 100,000 Coin reward.]</blockquote>


    Senias wings quivered.


    100k Coins?


    It was a huge sum. Typically, getting into the 10k+ range put a sponsorship in the generous category. But 100k? This was a truly big mission.


    Senia asked the Arrow-Shooting Cupid, What kind of mission is it?<blockquote>


    [The mission Show Yourself and Enjoy the Party with the Members of Giantgod Guild! has been generated.]</blockquote>


    It was the Intermediate Administrator Senia who was given a mission, not the yer Kim Hyukjin. Senias wings trembled.


    Party?


    That party. The party that she kept watching, for some strange reason.


    I am an Intermediate Administrator. I have little interest in a private party between yers. Her face expressionless, she continued. But since a prominent Guardian, the Arrow-Shooting Cupid, has given me a mission


    It really couldnt be helped. She really had no other choice but to show herself for the sake of the mission. How easy and convenient could a mission get?


    She looked at Hyukjin.


    I will carry out the mission.


    Senia showed herself.


    The owner who had rented out his restaurant for the night and was busily frying chicken froze, his eyes widening and his mouth parting in an unconscious gasp. In all his fifty years of life, he had never seen such a beautiful woman. It was his first time seeing a woman who could, with just a nce, make a man fall in love. No, one could hardly dare to dream of her love, fall in awe was more apt. He stared at Senia in dumb amazement.


    Senia walked up to Kim Hyukjin.

 Chapter 242

    Chapter 242


    What happened next was nothing big, but baffling to Senia.


    Choi Sung-gu held a ss of beer towards her. A human was giving her beer. To Senia, it was a somewhat shocking eventin angel society, only your very closest friends offered you alcohol.


    Come,e! Dont be shy, Miss Senia. Have a drink.


    ...


    Senia had never drunk alcohol before. She was 332 years old. Something she had never drunk before was given to her by Choi Sung-gu.


    What insolence.


    Senia was, in both heart and body, an Intermediate Administrator. She might be in a partnership with Kim Hyukjin and very tolerant in many respects when it came to Kim Hyukjin, but she still harbored slight contempt for yers. It wasnt Senias fault. Most Intermediate Administrators were like that. After all, most yers were merely beginners.


    Come, hurry and take it.


    Choi Sung-gus face was a little flushed. He seemed to be a little tipsy. Senias wings fluttered.


    How disrespectful.


    Senia was always expressionless, but todays expressionlessness was more severe than usual, like a tundra bristling with bitter-cold, piercing wind. Actually, it was more urate to say that Senia was nervous rather than displeased. That was because she had never drunk alcohol before.


    <em>Hic.</em>


    Sung-gu snapped back to his senses.


    Ah, um.


    His cheeky mouth would be the death of him. It was the alcohol. Sung-gu looked to Kim Hyukjin with a silent cry for help. Hyukjin sighed, thinking that if he didnt step in to mediate, Senia might give Sung-gu a slight punishment.


    But just for today, I will ept your proffered drink.


    ...


    Sung-gus hand lost all strength, and the ss he was holding fell to the ground. Right before it hit the ground, Darongi jumped forward like a ninja and grabbed it.<blockquote>


    [!!!]</blockquote>


    The squirrel wobbled under the weight of the ss, and Yeonseo picked it up.


    Iyaa, Darongi. Youre so fast.<blockquote>


    []</blockquote>


    Darongi straightened his shoulders in pride and brandished his stomach, which Sunhwa scratched with her index finger.


    The chicken store was as peaceful as ever, but Hyukjin found Senias response a little odd. It wasmon knowledge that angels rarely drank. Whats more, an Intermediate Administrator deigning to hang out with yers? Was she streaming right now?


    Guardians fundamentally dont like to see Intermediate Administrators get excessively involved in a y.


    This little party at a chicken restaurant was hardly a main scenario. At most, it could only be called a break, not real ying.


    And yet, if shes streaming right now it means a Guardian who likes slice-of-life content intervened.


    Senia took the seat next to Kim Hyukjin.


    How does one drink this liquid?


    You can just drink it.


    My observation of yers has shown that they typically turn aside or drink it with both hands in something called drinking etiquette.


    Senia.


    Hyukjin stared at the angel. Senias wings trembled.


    Whats wrong?


    Youre streaming right now, right?


    Yes, I am. I am here because I am streaming.


    It was almost like she was saying that there was no way she would be in a ce like this if she wasnt streaming.


    Okay, I get that youre streaming. But why are you showing yourself and hanging out with us?


    I received a mission.


    A mission?


    When Intermediate Administrators were given quests, it was typically called a mission. They werent asmon as quests, but they werentpletely unheard of.


    Yes, I am sitting here learning drinking etiquette because of a mission. Senias gaze moved to Choi Sung-gu, who was still huping. To that end, Ive even decided to forgive his disrespectful attitude. Because this cant be helped.


    Heheh thank you.


    The future me Lord Choi Sung-gu dipped his head at Senia before grabbing a piece of chicken, internally promising himself not to drink any more beer tonight.


    Hyukjin snorted.


    Cant be helped?


    Yes. This is an inevitable situation.


    What kind of mission did you get?


    Is that something Im required to tell you?


    No, youre not required to. It would just be nice if you did. Theres no need for secrets between you and me, right?


    Thats true.


    For some reason, Senia seemed a touch pricklier today. Her defensiveness made it seem like he was prying. After a moment of deliberation, Senia spoke.


    Its a mission given by the ---- ----.


    Ah, really?


    Thest part was bleeped out. It was either System or Guardian interference.


    Giving a mission for something so insignificant?


    That narrowed down the suspects. The vast majority of Guardians wouldnt go as far as to give a mission for slice-of-life content like this.


    Must be the Arrow-Shooting Cupid.


    The Guardian had seemed awfully quiet after the notice that he was paying attention to Senias stream, but he was rearing his ugly head again with another weird mission.


    Hes definitely going to try pushing some sort of influence on Senia.


    The Arrow-Shooting Cupid wasnt a very desirable Guardian. There were more than a few people who were brought to ruin because they were unlucky and caught the Arrow-Shooting Cupids eye. The Guardian was pretty much evil.


    From the looks of it


    It didnt look like the Arrow-Shooting Cupid gave Senia a big mission or anything. It seemed like she just had to participate in this little party.


    Thats how it starts, at first.


    Butter down the line


    Hell try to get her tangled up with one of us.


    That was the Arrow-Shooting Cupids strategy. He had no qualms about injecting people with strange preferences, influencing yers with whatever means possible.


    There was that one crazy guy who made a fuss about marrying his own mom.


    That yer was a victim of the Arrow-Shooting Cupid. Hyukjin didnt remember their names, but several yers suddenly revealed that they were gay, resulting in overnight breakdowns of their perfectly fine families. The opposite also happened, where a certain actor who was famous for being gay suddenly betrayed their fianc, and the fianc ended up killing themselves.


    In any case, theres nothing good about getting involved with him.


    The Guardian was responsible for a lot of other crazy shit, things too horrible to describe. That was why some people called the Arrow-Shooting Cupid a paraphiliac.


    Though I dont know who hes trying to pair Senia with.


    Anyone here could be the target. Who would be the strangest person here for Senia to fall for?


    Sunhwa?


    Sunhwa would be the weirdest.


    In the super, super worst case scenario


    Hyukjin nced at Kim Darong, who had [] marks over his head.


    She still has an angels willpower, so it shouldnt be <em>that </em>bad.


    What are you thinking about so intently? asked Senia.


    No, its nothing.


    Jeez. He already had protecting Sunhwa from the casper on his mind, but it seemed he had to worry about Senia, too.


    The party went on. Senia drank alcohol for the first time, and she learned for the first time that she was an extreme lightweight.


    <em>Im just carrying out a mission. Dont misunderstand anything.</em>


    She repeated the same line a dozen times before suddenly going transparent and disappearing. Her speech had grown so slurred by the end that it was hard to understand what she was saying.


    * * *


    * * *


    Hyukjin went back to his room.


    Hah, to think she got that drunk after just two sips of beer.


    It was absurd. Was it her first time in 332 years drinking alcohol or something?


    But whats going on now?


    A Pause authority suddenly took effect, and Senia appeared before him, her face still flushed. Even her originally white wings had turned pink, a possible sign that she was even more inebriated than before.


    yer Kim Hyukjin.


    You must be loaded these days, to just randomly use a Pause authority.


    He wasnt even ying right now.


    Yes, Im the most sessful Intermediate Administrator in the whole server right now. Im getting the most sponsorships, and Ive long since escaped the depths of poverty. Ive be a wealthy person who can afford to use a measly authority like this anytime.


    Her pronunciation was a little off, and she was slurring.


    You arent streaming right now, are you?


    Im not.


    If you were, I would have lodged a formalint.


    Business had to be carried out professionally. Very few Guardians liked to see Intermediate Administrators being this out of it. Most Guardians liked ys streamed by Intermediate Administrators thinking straight. It was serious enough to be a point of contention for Hyukjin, her contracted yer.


    Do you only have business in your head?


    ...


    Streaming, streaming, streaming, streaming. Is that the only word you know?


    Hyukjin stopped short, getting a bad feeling.


    The one the Arrow-Shooting Cupid is gunning for


    It couldnt be.


    ...is me?


    It was undeniable. Senias attitude right now said it all. She was drunk, and that opened her up to the Arrow-Shooting Cupids maniption.


    Shit, this is damn unlucky.


    There was absolutely nothing good about bing that Guardians target.


    Senia, get it together!


    Im thinking perfectly straight.


    Youre drunk.


    Not at all. My body doesnt get drunk.


    Those were big words for someone who was flushed down to her wings.


    So? Why did you suddenly show yourself? Youre not even streaming right now.


    Can I only show myself when Im streaming?


    Hyukjin scowled. Would you be annoyed if a call came from the office after you went home for the day? Im not even getting overtime pay.


    Then is yer Kim Hyukjin annoyed right now?


    Of course.


    Things would be very tiresome if the Arrow-Shooting Cupid fixated on him. He couldnt show any openings from the start. The right move was to cut things off with a single stroke.


    Listen up. You and I are involved purely for business. Dont forget we have an exclusive contract between us. If you keep interfering with my rest time in this manner, Ill treat that as knowingly interfering with my future ying and formally lodge aint.


    ...


    Do you understand, or not?


    Do you not like me, yer Kim Hyukjin?


    He did like her. She had grown a lot, andtely, they had great teamwork together. They could produce pretty great scenes for the Guardians even without discussing things ahead of time.


    You said youre not streaming right now, right?


    Yes. Streaming, Im not doing it.


    Senias expressionlessness cracked a little. She seemed a bit angry, like she was holding back from retorting about him bringing up streaming again.


    I experienced System interference earlier. When you told me the Guardian who gave you the mission, either the System or the Guardian prevented me from hearing the name.


    ...Is that so?


    But I think I know who that Guardian is.


    Guess.


    The Arrow-Shooting Cupid.


    ...


    Think about it. Why do you think he concealed his name? Most Guardians are attention seekers who like spreading their names far and wide. And why do you think he gave you a mission like that? Do you not know of the Arrow-Shooting Cupids infamy?


    There were other dimensions other than Earth, a fact humanity would be vaguely aware of in the future. A named Guardian like the Arrow-Shooting Cupid was surely already famous among the Intermediate Administrators, and Hyukjin was exactly right.


    You said it, didnt you? That youre the most sessful Intermediate Administrator right now.


    ...Yes.


    Then there must be a lot of people who are jealous of you.


    ...


    The Guardians dont like to see you guys being too sessful. Because in their point of view, you guys are just intermediaries, lowly tools that provide them amusement.


    Senia couldnt argue back.


    If the Arrow-Shooting Cupid was truly honorable, do you think he would have gone out of his way to mess with the System?


    ...


    Snap out of it. You and I still have a long way to go.


    They were only in the beginner period. There was still a long road ahead of them, and they wouldnt make it far if something like this were to shake them.


    Dont be shaken by the Guardians.


    ...


    We just need to focus on what we have to do. They want amusement, and we provide the content.


    ...I have shown you something indecent.


    You and I need to go far together. This is only the beginner period.


    yer Kim Hyukjin is correct.


    Ill let it slide this time. Get your head in the game.


    Hyukjin took out an item called Miracle from his Inventory. It was one of the items Kim Darong had stolen from Song Junghye.


    Drink this.


    What is it?


    With how drunk you are, youre probably gonna have a huge headache soon.


    ... Senia frowned for a split second. Yes, Im definitely getting a headache.


    Even potions wont help with that. Itll go away if you drink this Miracle.


    Senia took the item, a drink that would be popr as a hangover cure in the future. Her gaze alternated from the small bottle to Hyukjins face.


    When did you prepare this?


    When you were drunk earlier.


    Why are you giving it to me?


    You need to make content with me again tomorrow, so its a pain if youve got a hangover.


    Senia nearly thought he was being kind and considerate, and those words almost unconsciously escaped her before she caught herself.


    I see. I will ept.


    Senias expression darkened a little. Finally, her Pause authority ran out, and she was nowhere to be seen. She had disappeared without notice again.


    Hyukjin sighed.


    Ive put out the fire, for now.


    But there was no knowing what other tricks the Arrow-Shooting Cupid would try. It was best to be careful.


    Two days passed. The Italian Master who imed to be a manly man, Pedro, came to visit Hyukjin, and he was bearing very good news.

 [Translator – L

    [Trantor ¨C L


    The Master Pedro, the manly man fanatic who was actually a woman,ughed heartily in front of Hyukjin.


    Hahaha.


    It was theugh of someone who deeply believed that manly men had tough loudly and from the gut. It looked a little awkward to Hyukjin, but it wasnt important.


    Im here with very happy news.


    What is it?


    Do you remember what I said before?


    In the past, Pedro gave Hyukjin a Sylphids Wing after receiving a Tomb-Pilfering Shovel from him. Hyukjin said that the Tomb-Pilfering Shovel and Sylphids Wing werent an equal match. After acknowledging that fact, Pedro said:


    <em>Let me bnce the scales at ater time. You are the one who called me and gave me an item out of nowhere, so this much should do for an initial trade, right?</em>


    I havent forgotten that I still owe you.


    Pedro sent Hyukjin a look. As someone who could read even the Guardians, Hyukjin immediately realized what Pedro wanted to hear.


    As expected of a manly man among men. You havent forgotten your promise.


    Hahahaha!


    Pedro puffed out his chest and loudlyughed. He really was obsessed with being a manly man.


    Thats right. Because Im a manly man.


    Hyukjin could have said that a manly man wouldnt be so obsessed with being a manly man, but he just smiled. Seeing how confident Pedro was, he must have brought something extremely good with him. Hyukjin waited in silence.


    My damnahem, my teacher would like to see you for a moment, Hyukjin.


    Elder Bufafa wants to see me?


    Yes. I got a quest to escort the VIP to the Winter Castle.


    Can you tell me why?


    Of course!


    Pedro took out a letter, which Hyukjin took and read.


    <em>This letter is humbly penned to your exalted personage.</em>


    And so the letter began, continuing for a staggering thirteen pages. Minus all the flowerynguage and unnecessary fluff, the letter could be boiled down to a fairly simple message.


    <em>As an elder, I possess a special innate authority, and the time when I can use it hase. To repay you for granting me an audience with Lady Isabel, I would like to dedicate the innate authority to your exalted personage. Pleasee to the Winter Castle.</em>


    A special innate authority?


    The dwarfs were already a special race. Even by future standards, their kin were the most outstanding in all things production. They were at the top of their field, and a top elite among them, Elder Bufafa, was going so far as to call this authority special.


    And its an authority he can use just once in a hundred years.


    It happened to be resetting this year, and Elder Bufafa wanted to use it on him, a lucky coincidence Hyukjin had never imagined.


    Will youe with me to the Winter Castle? asked Pedro.


    Of course.


    Hyukjin didnt deliberate for long. As he made his way outside with Pedro, they ran into his sister Ahyoung in front of the door.


    Oh, Noona. Youre home early today.


    Ahyoung was working as an assistant in a Korean restaurant these days. Apparently, the aspiring cook was working extremely hard to learn the culinary arts.


    This is?


    Ah, just a friend of mine.


    Ah, I see. Hello.


    Pedro put out his hand. Hello, Im Hyukjins friend, Pedro. Please call me Pedro, Noonim.


    Im Kim Ahyoung. After that short greeting, Ahyoung asked, When will you be back?


    Not sure. I think itll be a bit. Why?


    Nothing.


    Ahyoung dipped her head in goodbye at Pedro before going into the house. She heard Hyukjins voice behind her.


    Ill be back soon.


    Whatever.


    Ahyoung roughly tossed the shopping basket she was carrying into the kitchen. She was originally going to try her hand at a seafood doenjang stew today, but it suddenly seemed like a pain.


    Hes probably noting back today, is he?


    Hyukjins friend looked like a foreign yer. From the way they hurried out, it didnt seem like Hyukjin would be returning today. Forget the seafood doenjang stew, she didnt care.


    What a pain.


    Ahyoung, who normally enjoyed cooking, decided not to cook today.


    * * *


    * * *


    It had been a while since Hyukjin visited the Winter Castle. Once he and Pedro passed the forest made of iron, the fortress where snow-topped steel towered into the clouds, the Winter Castle, came into view.


    Pedro suddenly straightened his shoulders, chortling with a look of extreme gratification. I can already imagine what expression those two jerks will make.


    They reached the Winter Castle. Just like before, it loomed before them with immense dignity. In front of the Winter Castle were the twin gatekeepers Hyukjin had seen before.


    I have escorted the esteemed guest here! called out Pedro.


    The brother and sister twins respectfully bowed.


    Youre Elder Bufafas guest!


    Youre Elder Bufafas guest!


    Pedro said loudly, I think you should speak more respectfully.


    The twins straightened and red at Pedro.


    Human. Wanna die?


    Human. Wanna die?


    Upon which, Pedro put a hand on Hyukjins shoulder.


    Im this guys friend.


    ...


    Hyukjin realized what was going on.


    Pedros had a rough time of it.


    These twin siblings detested humans by nature. Hyukjin remembered the first thing they said the very first time he came here.


    <em>Haa, the smell of humans. Disgusting.</em>


    That was their default. It was only because Hyukjin was now a precious guest of Bufafa that their attitude had changed at all, an unprecedented development.


    And dwarfs typically dont pay much heed to the rtionships of other dwarfs.


    Dwarfs were unlikely to care whether Hyukjin was a VIP of Bufafa or notthey were fiercely independent thinkers. That the twins were acting so respectfully now was a reflection of how highly Bufafa regarded Kim Hyukjin.


    As if to vent his built-up resentment, Pedro harrumphed, Greet me properly from now on. He patted the two 130 centimetres short dwarfs on the shoulder. Im this esteemed guests friend, you know? I was even acknowledged by his older sister.


    It wasnt a lie. Hyukjin had introduced Pedro to Ahyoung as his friend.


    Take care to be respectful in the future. Got it?


    ...


    Why arent you answering me?


    The twins clenched their teeth.


    Understood.


    Understood.


    Only then did Pedro relent with a big smile.


    Thats it, thats how you do it. Now <em>this </em>is the way to greet a manly man. Uhahaha!


    The gatekeepers opened the door. The Winter Castle didnt have a physical doora circr door appeared in the wall when the gatekeepers recited something, and the two of them were able to walk into it.


    After entering the Winter Castle, Pedro assumed the role of navigator.


    Ill take you there.


    All paths in the Winter Castle were magicked. Going straight wouldnt take you straight, and going left wouldnt take you left. It wasid out with one short teleportation gateway after another. If you didnt know the exact way, getting lost was a guarantee.


    Pedro knew the path well. They reached Elder Bufafas house, which was still on fire.


    Teacher! Im here! Ive brought the esteemed guest.


    The door opened, and Elder Bufafa came running out.


    I apologize for not being able to escort you in person. The circumstances did not allow it.


    Elder Bufafa didnt have a single scrap of clothing on his body. He was covering the essential areas with his extremely long, profuse beard.


    I will use the authority at once. There is no time.


    This was an authority that could only be used one time in one hundred years. Not only that, but it was only possible to use after soaking in water infused with the essence of Athenae for at least thirty minutes, and the authority had to be used within five minutes of leaving the water.


    Hyukjin nodded.


    Please do so.


    Yes. I will do my best, esteemed one.


    Stark naked, Bufafa went to stand behind Hyukjin. He ced both palms on Hyukjins back, and his long brows stood straight on end.


    -- --- --.


    --- --- ----.


    Hyukjin heard an iprehensible incantation, feeling the dwarf elder drawing forth his power.


    Into my body.


    He felt something entering him, snaking and squirming through his veins. It felt foreign.


    This is Elder Bufafas innate authority.


    He contemted his own body with Eye of Perception.


    I dont know what exactly it is.


    It was beyond hisprehension. That was how advanced Elder Bufafas authority was. After some time, Elder Bufafa crumpled to the ground behind him.


    Teacher!


    Pedro ran forward and propped up his teacher. At the same time, Hyukjin heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [You have sessfully received the innate authority of Bufafa, the chosen dwarf elder.]


    [You are bestowed the Dwarf Elders Blessing.]</blockquote>


    He was able to read the detailed exnation.<blockquote>


    [Dwarf Elders Blessing]


    A blessing usable once in a hundred years by an individual of the chosen people, the dwarfs. Among them, this dwarf is of a particrly chosen lineage, the Sword Forest, and holds even among them the position of elder.


    *The blessing is effective for 7 days.


    *The Dwarf Elders Blessing applies to a reward of the item category acquired directly from the System within 7 days.


    *Breath of Production will be bestowed on a directly acquired reward of the item category.


    *If Breath of Production sessfully takes effect, one identical item will be created.


    *If the first reward acquired following the blessing is not of the item category, the blessing will disappear.</blockquote>


    The exnation is extraordinary.


    Extraordinary wasnt a sufficient description.


    It sounds like if I acquire an item reward, that item will be duplicated.


    Elder Bufafa got heavily to his feet, his body thinner than before. Apparently, it was because he had drawn too much strength in one go.


    Ill recover in no time, so please do not worry, said Bufafa. It seems that my inadequacy has imposed too many restrictions.


    No, this is already an incredibly generous gift. Elder Bufafa, thank you so very much.


    Your gracious words deeply tter me. But please, be careful. You must, at all costs, be given a reward of the item category for the first reward.


    Receiving something else, like a title or stats, would result in the blessings disappearance.


    Yes. Ill keep it in mind.


    For other yers, it was an enormous penalty. But for Hyukjin, an Observer, it wasnt that big of a deal.


    I dont get any rewards by hunting something myself anyway.


    That was the string attached to his ss. It was possible he would get some kind of sponsorship from the Guardians, but all he had to do was ask Senia to pause streaming.


    Upon receiving the blessing, Hyukjin jumped right intopleting one of his scenarios. He returned to Korea and immediately met up with Choi Sung-gu.


    They had to move quickly and finish it within seven days.


    Whassat? Shabam? Centipede Cave? Not going! I almost died back then! And its obviously gonna be even harder this time! You crazy, bro?! Just kill me!


    The Giant of the Sunset will be happy if you y a major role there. Dont you need to make some kind of big ssh right now because of the government contract?


    Actually, Ive always wanted to go to Plum Blossom Ind. It wasnt difficult to persuade Sung-gu. He asked, But friendo, why Plum Blossom Ind, of all ces?


    Theres a Tome of the Divine Sword Physique there.


    Wha, really?


    But Ivended a chance to get not just one, but <em>two </em>of them.


    If things went as Hyukjin was nning, he would be able to acquire two Tomes of the Divine Sword Physique.


    Holy shit, you crazy mofo. Then Yeonseo can get one, and you can get one. Sung-gu shivered all over. Shin Yeonseos a monster too, but youre gonna be one crazy monster. Eurgh, gross. Youre so strong, its positively nasty.


    Despite saying that, Choi Sung-gu seemed extremely happy. He also knew how precious a Tome of the Divine Sword Physique was.


    Hyukjin asked Senia to pause streaming. From now on, her channel would proceed with pre-recorded content. Then, they went to Plum Blossom Ind by helicopter.


    Were gonna find the Centipede Cave.


    And so began a new story, one suddenly initiated by an unexpected variable, Elder Bufafas invitation.


    This


    Greed swirled in Hyukjins eyes. He wanted to be strong. Desire burned hot within him.


    ...is where Ill get the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique.

 Chapter 244

    Chapter 244


    The two of them entered the Centipede Cave. Before going in, Hyukjin checked his notes one more time.


    <em>Plum Blossom Inds Centipede Cave. Entrance to a cave inhabited by centipedes. Having no entrance condition is its distinct characteristic, also has various entrances. Inhabited by arge number of Pearl Centipedes. A gate known to be nearly impossible to clear without a fire magician.</em>


    In truth, that was just superficial information. Hyukjin believed there were several secrets he hadnt yet unearthed hidden in the Centipede Cave.


    That day, I saw the Demon King.


    He thought back to that day when the Demon King suddenly showed up and grabbed him by the neck.


    <em>If I allow you to live here, what can you do for me?</em>


    Back then, Hyukjin responded that he would be strong.


    <em>Strong enough to make you, the person reigning as the strong one right now, kneel.</em>


    <em>Or strong enough to be a fierce de you can trust.</em>


    That was met by the following words from the Demon King:


    <em>Be stronger.</em>


    <em>If you can get out of here alive, that is.</em>


    It was possible that the Demon Kings arrangements for him began from that day onward.


    And this is where I first met Predator Trees.


    He also rechecked his info about Predator Trees.


    <em>Predator Tree. Has a habit of ambushing Pearl Centipede habitats and nesting there. Likes ces with good venttion. Level around 40, is capable of eating a Great Orc Warrior alive, and has extremely high defense, making it almost impossible for a yer of the same level to solo it.</em>


    <em>The Predator Tree makes a strange gghhh sound as it moves.</em>


    He remembered one other thing.


    Darongi pilfered the Demon Kings Inventory in the Centipede Cave.


    To be more precise, it wasnt that Darongi stole, but that the Demon King allowed himself to be stolen from. The stolen item was none other than a Fusestone.


    And I was able to graft this skill into my body using that Fusestone.<blockquote>


    [Absorption Ring]


    Absorbs all physical damage for 0.5 seconds. Only applies when the attacker dealing the physical damage is under level 50. The absorbed damage will be converted to HP, and the item will be destroyed.</blockquote>


    An ability that could be called Hyukjins extra life.


    It urred to Hyukjin that all these factors might have been a part of someones n.


    Absorption. Ill act with this ability in mind.


    Sung-gus voice interrupted his thoughts.


    What are you thinking about for so long?


    Ah. I was thinking about when we came here in the past.


    We nearly died back then. I frickin hate Predator Trees, man. About what level are those things again?


    Around 40.


    We should be able to catch em easy then, no?


    Predator Trees were weak to fire attacks. Choi Sung-gu was currently level 39, very nearly through the level 30-40 Hell Phase.


    Well, itd be nice if it were less dangerous than back then, but Choi Sung-gu shot Hyukjin a sideways nce. As long as youre involved, I doubt thatll happen. Youre like Conan, bringing danger with you wherever you go.


    Several Pearl Centipedes appeared.


    <em>Fire Wall.</em>


    Fire Wall, a fairly easy spell to cast, was originally supposed to be a defensive spell that created a me barrier. However, it was also very effective against insect monsters.<blockquote>


    [Pearl Centipede has been killed.]</blockquote>


    It was day and night from the past. Choi Sung-gu killed the Pearl Centipedes without much difficulty, and the insects failed to make them feel any sense of danger.


    As a result, Sung-gu found himself growing suspicious. What was going on? Why were things so easy, even though Hyukjin was here? Howe the big boys werenting out?


    Whats the catch?


    Its not really a catch, but Hyukjin said. I met someone special here.


    Someone special?


    Choi Sung-gu hadnt been with him, and the fire magician hadnt met the Demon King. As Sung-gu tilted his head, Hyukjin continued.


    He did me a favor here.


    Seriously? Theres someone out there who can do <em>you </em>favors? Is he stronger than you?


    I dont know how strong he is.


    The Demon King was so very far ahead. Hyukjin could not gauge his strength. He wasnt even sure the man was a yer.


    In any case, I got an item here, and that item allowed me to get the Absorption ability.


    And? Sung-gu quibbled with some displeasure. Why was Hyukjin going about the exnation in such a roundabout manner? He fired off another spell.


    <em>Fire Wall.</em>


    A Pearl Centipede burned to a crisp in a burst of crackles. The dark, moist cave filled with the smell of burnt insect.


    <em>Gghhhh</em>


    With that quiet groan came a faint tremor, carried from afar by the wind.


    <em>Fire Arrow.</em>


    Sung-gu fired several fire arrows, aiming at the Predator Tree. The Predator Tree was still too far to be seen, but Sung-gus arrows met their mark.


    <em>Ggghhhg!</em>


    The other Predator Trees began to approach them.


    Lets talk after killing these guys first, murmured Hyukjin, pulling out the sleeping Isabel.


    Oi. Not gonna use that fire bow? One shot of that would clear these buggers right out.


    That takes too much mana.


    Then what? Youre gonna kill those things with your de? Type wise, youd be at a disadvantage with a swo Choi Sung-gu shook his head, swallowing his next words. Ah, right. Sure, sure.


    He had briefly forgotten who he was talking to. This guy imed he was level 39, but he was actually way stronger than that. From what Hyukjin said, he received markedly more random stats than other yers, and that was a special perk for sovereigns, or something like that. But to be honest, Choi Sung-gu thought that was a whole load of BS. What kind of sovereign was this?


    <em>Schwing!</em>


    Every time Isabel left a silver sh in the air<blockquote>


    [Predator Tree has been killed.]</blockquote>


    a Predator Tree perished.


    Right, thats not a sovereign.


    In any case, Kim Hyukjin acquired a lot of random stats because he was a sovereign, and as a result, he was at least as strong as a regr ss yer in theirte level 40s. That was Choi Sung-gus take.


    A Predator Tree approached Hyukjin from behind, its mouth wide open.


    <em>me Whip.</em>


    Hyukjin was aware of the monster as well, but he didnt react. That was because he trusted Choi Sung-gu. The fire magicians me Whip reduced the Predator Tree to ashes.


    It took less than five minutes to dispatch the swarm of eleven Predator Trees that had suddenly appeared, meaning each one had taken only about thirty seconds.


    Iyaa. Weve gotten real strong. Level is king, Sung-gu chortled. Then, ncing at Hyukjin, he said, But not for you.


    Killing Predator Trees with a de was wild enough, but the wielder of that de being a sovereign was another level of crazy. It didnt faze Sung-gu anymore.


    So, what were you about to say earlier? What was that about Absorption?


    I got Absorption here.


    Kim Hyukjin wasnt at all out of breath. Despite moving his body far more energetically than Choi Sung-gu, he wasnt tired in the leasthe had fought while considering his stamina, feeling as though he was taking a walk in his neighborhood.


    Dude, why do you keep trying to make me feel all uneasy? What about Absorption?


    You know this is an ability that converts all damage taken over 0.5 seconds into HP, right?


    ...Yeah, I know that, but what about it?


    Unease continued to burgeon within him. What was Hyukjin going to say?


    Its possible that Ill need to make full use of this ability today.


    Just like getting the Night of Shooting Stars personal sponsorship, getting a tome item was normally difficult, except in truly exceptional cases. Even Choi Sung-gu was only able to get the Tome of the Divine Fire Physique thanks to the wholehearted sponsorship of the Giant of the Sunset.


    Because were not able to receive the Guardians sponsorships right now.


    Their ying was being recordedbut not streamed liveat Hyukjins request. They couldnt hope for the Guardians support. The two of them had to push through it on their own.


    But cmon, what about that? Choi Sung-gu scowled. You cant be saying theres a crisis lurking around so dangerous well die if you cant use that ability at the right time, the right way, right?


    Fuck. Surely not, right? He wanted to ask, but he didnt, shivering instead.


    You serious, bro?


    He had just witnessed Kim Hyukjins martial might in person. The man had chopped down Predator Trees with a sword despite the type disadvantage. Whats more, the Predator Trees were one level higher. Sung-gu was confident he had a better grasp of Kim Hyukjins strength than anyone.


    It was possible they would find themselves in a situation where Hyukjin would have to rely on a 0.5 second ability0.5 seconds!like Absorption?


    Hyukjin. Im not gonna die, am I?


    There was one reason Hyukjin was telling him this in advance. It was a warning to be careful, to stay bright-eyed and on his toes, since there was no knowing what kind of danger would go for their throats within 0.5 seconds.


    I cant just wait here, can I?


    Alone? I dont know what might be here, either.


    Fuck. Sung-gu shivered again. You brought me here knowing all this, right?


    Yeah.


    Mind if I kill you?


    If you can.


    FUCK!


    Sung-gu felt terribly wronged. He said something V would say.


    If I was good at fighting, I wouldve beaten you up.


    I hope youll be able to one day.


    ... Sung-gus shoulders slumped. So? What do I need to do?


    Hm. For now, lets explore this ce.


    Hyukjin strode forward, following the path to the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique in his mind.


    * * *


    * * *


    Pearl Centipede. Predator Tree.


    They didnt see much else. They continued exploring the moist, dark cave over quite a long period of time. After going through several forked paths, they reached a huge chamber.


    Hyukjin stared ahead.


    Somethings there.


    When they walked forward a little more, a thud rang out. Stone walls were blocking all of the entrances leading into therge, circr chamber.


    Fuck, that scared me. Sung-gu looked around. Were trapped.


    Yeah.


    They were trapped. There was a stone statue of considerable size, about seven meters, in the center of the chamber.


    Eurgh, gross. I frickin hate bugs. Ugh, thats one big fuckin centipede. Sung-gu really did have goosebumps on his arms. Ugh, Im scared af.


    It was an insect statue. Upon closer inspection, it looked like an erged version of a Pearl Centipede. And it was so realistic that it looked like a living being turned to stone rather than a likeness carved from a block of stone.


    A notice came in.<blockquote>


    [You have discovered the special boss monster ck Pearl Centipede.]


    [Only someone with a special qualification is capable of waking the ck Pearl Centipede from its slumber.]</blockquote>


    ck Pearl Centipede.


    It was a monster Hyukjin had never heard of before, one that wasnt recorded in the monster encyclopedia or ypedia ten years from now. That meant it was true that this thing was a special boss monster.


    Choi Sung-gu found the next notices absolutely terrifying.<blockquote>


    [If someone without the special qualification wakes the ck Pearl Centipede, you will not be able to leave this ce.]


    [This is an absolute of the System and cannot be overridden with the use of items or authorities.]</blockquote>


    All the exits were sealed off.<blockquote>


    [Those without the special qualification can forfeit the current scenario.]


    [If the current scenario is forfeited, the scenario will not reur.]</blockquote>


    It was a one-time chance. But they didnt know what the special qualification was. If they couldnt fulfill it, they would be trapped here forever by virtue of the Systems absolutew.


    Choi Sung-gu turned to Hyukjin.


    Hey, Hyukjin. Fuck. Isnt this too dangerous? This is a real gamble, man!


    Charging forward when they didnt know what the special qualification was could lead them straight into their graves.


    Hey. Ive always had dogshit luck. After saying that, the fire magician sighed. But if you were gonna give up here, you wouldnt have brought me all this way, huh?


    You can go back if you want.


    Hyukjin had no intention of denying Choi Sung-gu a choice. The reason he brought Sung-gu here was to recreate as simr a situation as before, thinking that the two Centipede Caves were linked in some way.


    Fuck. Thats such a sad thing to say, man, Sung-gu said, his teeth chattering. Were friends, you know?


    ...


    Ugh, fuck. Im fucking scared. From now on, Im not gonna tag along ever again. Im gonna live a long and safe time, eating til I burst my entire life!


    Anyway, both of them decided to clear this ce, and as a result, they were told the special condition.

 Chapter 245

    Chapter 245<blockquote>


    [Disclosing the first condition.]</blockquote>


    If someone without the qualification chose to find out what it was, they would be trapped here forever. Even Hyukjin found the moment of truth nerve wracking.


    <em>Thump. Thump.</em>


    His heart thudded in his chest, but he didnt really dislike the feeling.


    A peculiar thrill. Slight nervousness. The sense of crisis engendered by the possibility that he could, in the worst case scenario, very well die here. All those feelings jumbling together and tititing down his spine. Hyukjin didnt dislike it.


    Senia, Hyukjin said. You know you need to cut the video here, right?


    She was recording right now.


    What?


    That moment, Senia used her Pause authority. The world turned ck and white.


    You must really be loaded, huh?


    Yes. I am the most sessful Intermediate Administrator in the entire server, after all.


    Youre grateful, right?


    ...


    Senias wings fluttered. In fact, she did feel grateful to Kim Hyukjin. There were plenty of Intermediate Administrators who could rece her, but no yers who could rece him, so she <em>was </em>grateful, yes.


    But if I say Im grateful here


    She feared he would pluck every single feather she had. This was a human who exploited even the Guardians.


    Instead of responding, she asked, What do you mean by needing to cut the video?


    No way, you dont have a video editor?


    ...


    It was such a basic thing, so he hadnt asked.


    How are you publishing the videos?


    I


    Surely youre not just publishing the unedited footage from start to finish, are you?


    Yes. I am doing so with the intent to give the Guardians all the information avable.


    Hyukjin felt his head ache.


    You need to extract the highlights, cut out the boring parts, put in some captions, and add some BGM.


    What is BGM?


    Back ground music.


    Hyukjin found himself clenching his fists. He had forgotten. Although she had grown a great deal, Senia was a Streamer who had failed to survive thepetition.


    Its true shes grown, but


    Her base aptitude was too poor. But it was impossible to instill her with such aptitude and knack now.


    Senia. You said youre rich, didnt you?


    Yes. I am getting a continuous stream of big sponsorships from many Guardians.


    Then just hire an editor.


    Senia would handle the filming and the broadcasting, while the editing would be done by someone else with a sense for it.


    An editor?


    Yeah. They dont exist?


    There are no editor Intermediate Streamers in the streaming system.


    Hyukjin thought for a moment.


    At this point in time there are no video editors in the streaming system?


    To people of the modern day, the concept of a video editor was all too natural, but it was possible that wasnt the case for Intermediate Administrators now. Just like how dog meat wasnt an oddity to a Korean, but was a culture shock to a French person. A natural part of life to one person wasnt necessarily so to another, he mused.


    What if its not that Seniacks a knack for it, but that the very concept doesnt exist yet?


    He was floored by the thought, but it was possible. Like Columbus egg, there were many things in this world that should be extremely simple, but were hard toe up with.


    Find an Intermediate Administrator named Shobidobi.


    Shobi dobi?


    He should look like a pair of scissors. Sometimes when he gets excited, he turns into a pen.


    I know a race like that.


    Invest a lot of Coins in him. Ask if hes interested in working as a video editor instead of as an Intermediate Administrator. Hell ept.


    Shobidobi was a video editing whiz. After failing to make it as an Intermediate Administrator, he switched to being an editor. He was bad at creating content, but he was very good at processing content into a fun product.


    An Intermediate Administrator of such talent will know exactly what to do just by hearing the words <em>video editing</em>.


    It was said that Shobidobis days as an Intermediate Administrator were rough. That he considered killing himself because he had no Coins was a fact known by many yers.


    But how do you know that name?


    I just do.


    The identities of Intermediate Administrators arent publicized to the yers. Depending on the situation, revealing such knowledge can result in a System sanction.


    Hyukjin stared at Senia. She was warning him right now, but it didnt feel like that to him.


    Is she worrying about me?


    It looked like she was worrying about him rather than warning him. It was only for a split second, but Eye of Perception captured worry from her before it disappeared, gone so fast that he didnt get a proper look.


    No, surely not.


    Senia was as expressionless as ever, having returned to an inscrutable state.


    It was the same with my conversation with Neptune, and when I got the Arbitrator rights by using Judgment of the Law. Hyukjin smiled wide. But problems only be problems if someone takes issue with them. Right?


    ...


    Right now, its just you and me. No Guardians are watching. Do you intend on taking issue with the fact that I know the identity of an Intermediate Administrator?


    Of course not. Senia hurried to supply her reasoning, though none had been asked for. Its because yer Kim Hyukjin is my excellent business partner. Theres absolutely no other reason.


    I never said there was another reason.


    I only stated it to be perfectly clear.


    It urred to Hyukjin that ever since she carried out the Arrow-Shooting Cupids mission, Senia seemed a little more touchy.


    The Pause will soon end. As you suggested, I will cooperate with the Intermediate Administrator named Shobidobi.


    Yeah. Give him a generous wage. Asking someone to work out of passion is no good.


    Understood.


    Hyukjins mood brightened at the unexpected boon.


    Its always good to be the first in something.


    The benefits of being first couldnt be put into words. Both 1st and 2nd ce were amazing, but people only remembered the 1st ce winner. As unfair as it was, that was how the world was.


    If Shobidobis editing skills are added to my content the video is gonna be nuts.


    It would be the first exquisitely edited video to reach the Guardians. They would reap a significant first bonus.


    The Pause ended, and with the return of color to his world came a notice about the special qualification.


    * * *


    * * *<blockquote>


    [You must have already cleared the Centipede Cave once.]


    [The first condition has been met.]</blockquote>


    Ever since he came to know that two identical gates existed, he expected this condition.<blockquote>


    [Disclosing the second condition.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin intentionally said, I think itll be rted to the three tomes.


    Perfectly fusing the three tomes with Unique Ability Fusion had created the hidden piece rted with the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique. That was what led him to this prediction.


    Its great if Im right, but it doesnt matter if Im not.


    Guessing correctly might earn him a positive response from the Guardians, and if he guessed wrong, he could just have that part edited out. There was nothing to lose.<blockquote>


    [A yer who has fused three tomes must be present in the current field.]


    [The second condition has been met.]</blockquote>


    In a stroke of luck, he was right.<blockquote>


    [Disclosing the final condition.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin threw out a rough guess.


    Thest one will be rted to the Predator Tree Colony.


    This, too, was no big deal to get wrong. It could just be cut out in post-processing.


    The Predator Tree Colony came after the Centipede Cave, which led him to believe this field might also be connected to the Predator Tree Colony in some way. In the Predator Tree Colony, he acquired the True Ruler title by fulfilling a very difficult condition. Since it was so difficult to get, he thought it mighte up here.<blockquote>


    [You must have the Ruler of the Predator Tree Colony title.]


    [The third condition has been met.]</blockquote>


    Senias wings trembled. She almost used another Pause authority, but stopped herself.


    I dont think he was just lucky.


    In truth, it really was luck this time. Hyukjin had just made some rough guesses, knowing they could edit thingster. He happened to be right, but Senia couldnt think of that as a coincidence.


    The same question she had asked before came to mind.


    Do you truly have no true name?


    The question quivered on her tongue, but she didnt ask. She had the feeling that Kim Hyukjin would give her an answer of some kind on his own if she continued to wait. In any case, the fact remained that Kim Hyukjin called out the conditions before they were disclosed.


    Choi Sung-gu shook his head back and forth.


    You crazy bastard.


    Even he could not think of this as aplete coincidence.


    You absolute monster.


    Choi Sung-gu picked up on why Hyukjin stated the conditions aloud before they were revealed. It was, of course, because he was an outstanding content producer. That made Hyukjin seem all the more spine-chilling.


    The man didnt miss a single tiny detail, no matter how insignificant. It was said that the difference between a luxury brand and a regr one was in the details. That was exactly how it felt now.


    You gross mothafucker, Sung-gu groused. His eyes focused on the center of the chamber. Something even more gross is waking up.


    He scuttled behind Hyukjin, sticking close to him.


    Hyukjin. I hate bugs. I, Choi Sung-gu, am scared af. Hyukjin.


    [The boss monster ck Pearl Centipede is waking from its slumber.]


    The giant monster went from hard as stone to slowly beginning to move. Stone dust fell to the ground.


    Sung-gu. Light your fire ki.


    Huh?


    He didnt know what Hyukjin was trying to do, but he did as he was told. Poison gas instantly wisped into existence, forming wherever Sung-gus fire ki met the falling stone dust.


    Fuck. The hell is this?


    Hyukjin felt the strong poison energy. It was stronger than any he had experienced so far. It was just a little dust that had scattered into the air, but even that produced poison of such intensity.


    If that fully touches the skin


    Skin and bone were sure to melt away all at once.


    We need to eliminate the poison first.


    The stone statue was moving little by little, almost like it was stretching itself. Hyukjin was once again reminded that this was the beginner period. This slight reprieve, this short moment before the battle began, was all assistance from the System. Assistance put in ce for bnce.


    The System is urging us to see the stone dust and think fast on our feet.


    Someone who wasted these several free seconds would probably never be able to kill this monster.<blockquote>


    [The quest Hunt the ck Pearl Centipede Boss Monster! has been generated.]</blockquote>


    The raid began. But the stone statue wasnt fully awake yet. Hyukjin intentionally spoke aloud to inform Sung-gu, and tell Senia as well. In other words, he was acting for the Guardians.


    <em>me of Purification.</em>


    Hed already used it once beforeit hade in handy against the Shadow Sovereign. Whatever Hyukjin used once, he could use even better the second time. He was able to work the skill with greater natural ease.<blockquote>


    [The purification target has been selected.]</blockquote>


    He said, Showing us this poisonous stone dust is the Systems way of helping us.


    <em>Whoosh!</em>


    mes rushed up in a sh.


    He turned to Senia, who was filming. When I fought the Shadow Sovereign, I used this ability to flee.


    But this time, it was different.


    However, this time, I will purify the enemys poison.


    mes hungrily ran up the stone statue.


    I can add some heat of my own, yeah?


    Sung-gu drew a magic circle with his hand. Hyukjin was able to feel that Choi Sung-gus tome boosted mana was increasing me of Purifications purity and intensity.


    This makes quite the admirable picture.


    They had produced a scene that would really fire up Guardians who liked co-op y, like the Lady of the Scales, or efficient teamy, like the Herdsman of Las Vegas.


    The boss poison energy is being cleared.


    It was being disarmed of one of its weapons.<blockquote>


    [The ck Pearl Centipede has wokenpletely.]</blockquote>


    The stone statue was now a living being.


    Eurgh, gross. Look at those legs. Its got steel for hair.


    Hundreds of legs were wriggling. But those legs, as well as the squirming body they were attached to, slowly began to disappear.


    What the heck? Whered it go?


    Hyukjin examined his surroundings with Observers Eye and Eye of Perception, staying calm.


    Perfect stealth.


    He was already familiar with stealth like this. It was the same stealth used by Kim Darong, the stealth Hyukjin could not prate no matter what skills he applied.


    To think it had suchplete stealth


    It would probably go for an ambush, like an assassin. An extremely deadly ambush.


    If I cant locate it itll be dangerous.


    There was no knowing when or where it would attack. He had to locate it, and quick. But he couldnt see anything. He couldnt even detect its presence.


    How?


    He had to find a way. Acquiring the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique by a yers natural-born strength without Guardian assistance was surely going to be a challenge. But it wasnt that he hadnt taken such difficulty, such danger, into consideration.


    There must be


    Surely.


    ...a way.

 Chapter 246

    Chapter 246


    It wasnt possible to locate the ck Pearl Centipede with regr methods, neither by Hyukjins own abilities nor by Choi Sung-gus. If they were to suffer a critical ambush now, they would both die.


    Our only saving grace is that maintaining its stealth is keeping it from attacking freely.


    What did that mean?


    It has top-tier stealth, as well as a powerful one-time attack in stow.


    But it would have weak defense.


    If it were confident in its defense, it would have reappeared immediately and ripped us to shreds.


    But it wasnt doing that. In other words, that meant the creature was wary of an attack from them.


    So as long as we cannd a good hit on it, we can kill it.


    However, it really had to be a good, clean blow. The most urgent task was to find where it wasthat was step one.


    Hyukjin took out an item.<blockquote>


    [Kings Compass]


    Apass with the special power to determine the location of a special being with the title king, boss, ormander, in particr situations during a scenario/quest.</blockquote>


    It was the Kings Compass hed stolen from Song Junghye and used to great effect in the Immortal Fleet Gate. Hyukjin nced at thepass. The tip of the red needle pointing towards the N was slowly moving from left to right.


    It must be over there.


    He still couldnt feel its location.


    <em>Crack</em>


    A crack split the ss of thepass.


    Itll break soon.


    It appeared the items durability was greatlypromised by its usest time. The needle of thepass began to move a little faster.


    Its passing by us on the right.


    The boss was vigntly aiming for the right moment to strike Hyukjin and Choi Sung-gu. The moment it saw its chance to attack without being counterattacked, it would rush in with terrifying speed.


    Hyukjin. Can you feel where it is?


    Yeah. On your right.


    Choi Sung-gu shivered from head to toe. He was wearing an expression of absolute terror, but he didnt shout or freak out. The situation was too perilous for him to whine and moan like usual.


    Fuck. Should we attack?


    The moment you try, itll go straight for your neck. If you can cast your spell in 0.0001 seconds, go ahead and try.


    Basically, dont do it.


    Then what do we do?


    In the very short moment when it attacks, Ill counterattack at the right time.


    It was one thing if he had no clue where it was, but he judged that as long as he had a rough grasp of its location, it should be possible to counterattack.


    <em>Crack</em>


    Another crack spread across thepass ss.


    If thepass breakspletely, we wont be able to tell where it is at all.


    Then dont we have to call it out now, while we can?


    We do.


    That was the goal, but the beast was careful and staying hidden. It could even be that it could instinctively feel thepass effect.


    <em>Swisshh</em>


    A chilling rustle swept past them, half-sounding like the wind. It felt like something was slithering around them. Choi Sung-gu nearly squealed when he felt it, and goosebumps rose all over his arms.


    Hyukjin waited a little longer.


    If it continues to move like this, itlle to my left.


    Thepass would hold out until then. Thepass needle continued to move, passing behind Hyukjin and Sung-gu anding around to Hyukjins left.


    <em>Crack</em>


    Thepass ss split a little more.


    I need to make it attack me.


    It would be hard to initiate an attack on it. Thepass only gave him the approximate location, not exactly where it or its vital spots were.


    Thankfully, Hyukjin knew how to lure it out. He intentionally spoke aloud.


    I will use the temporary authority given to me by the Whispering Devil.


    He purposefully mentioned the Whispering Devil by name, something that was sure to delight the Guardian, considering his personality.<blockquote>


    [Using the temporary authority Speak of Peace, Prepare for War Strategy.]</blockquote>


    The name meant that war and peace were two sides of the same coin, and the strategy was to reassure the opponent by speaking of peace, but prepare for war on the sly and strike them unawares.


    In his current situation, there could be no authority more useful.


    Come.


    The ck Pearl Centipede circling the two humans in stealth mode found the chance it had been waiting for. It was the human that looked less appetizing of the two, but there was clearly an opening, almost as if the human were tempting it toe and eat him.


    The ck Pearl Centipede instinctively made a judgment.


    Of the two humans, that one was the more dangerous. As long as it could sessfully hunt him, it could make quick work of the fat one standing nearby. But it was the dangerous one the centipede felt an enormous opening from. It felt like the human was capable of locating it. So the ck Pearl Centipede didnt hesitate. It instinctively judged that another opportunity like this would note again.


    The countless stiff bristles on its legs ground against each other, producing an unpleasant screech.


    The time was now.


    It decided to hunt that man.


    * * *


    * * *


    Hyukjin concluded that he had to deal the monster a fatal blow. So he took out Isabel, the most powerful weapon in his arsenal.


    Isabel. You know how I created the ckfire Bow, right? he asked her.


    He didnt get an answer. Isabel was deeply asleep.


    Im going to tap into my mana and forcibly shove Athenaes me into your body.


    This wasnt a System-guided ability. It was Kim Hyukjin applying an ability he learned from the System in his own way, simr to when Hyukjin mimicked the abilities of other yers even without the Action Replication skill.


    It wont be as refined and efficient as a skill, but


    It should still be possible.


    Just like how I created the ckfire Bow with my will.


    Without the Systems help.


    Isabel. Ill be loading a great deal of destructive force into your body.


    Isabel was still asleep. Hyukjin couldnt afford to wait for her to wake up. As soon as he used the Speak of Peace, Prepare for War Strategy, he began to feel the ck Pearl Centipedes presence. It was clearly growing excited.


    Come bite me.


    A little longer. He would wait just a little longer. Sung-gu shivered.


    Somehow, Im getting an even scarier feeling.


    Shh.


    ...


    Sung-gu shut his mouth. Hyukjin could tell.


    Its going for me.


    The beasts tail was aiming for his head, and its teeth for his stomach.


    Looking at Hyukjin, Sung-gu realized his time to act hade. He was already done preparing to use his skill.


    The skill cast time is short.


    What he would use wasnt an attack skill, but a buff ability that would assist Hyukjin, just like before. He would wrap Hyukjins attack in his fire ki. That was the best course of action he could take right now.


    Hyukjin drew forth his strength.


    Now.


    He would only have one chance. Thepass broke with a resounding crack and fell to the ground, and it was exactly then that Hyukjin swung Isabel.


    He used the skill that would always seek andnd a fatal blow on a foes weak spot no matter the situation, the ability he had awakened thanks to Isabel.<blockquote>


    [Using the innate ability Sword of Insight.]</blockquote>


    At the same time, he wrapped Isabel with the ckfire energy his body remembered. If he had the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique in him, he might have been able to manifest the ability perfectly, but he didnt have it yet.


    It needs to die in one hit.


    He saw its head, a huge head.


    <em>Splurt!</em>


    The tip plunged in.


    Burning with ck mes, Isabels de slid into the centipedes head.


    <em>Kieeeek!</em>


    <em>Kieeeeeeeek!</em>


    The beasts leg hairs ground against each other with the screech of nails on a ckboard. Choi Sung-gu canceled the magic hed been readying, making an instinctive call. He knew exactly how much time he had.


    It cant use stealth again so fast.


    If so, Sung-gu could use a big spell instead. The boss was screeching in pain.


    This is where I should use


    A memory shed through his mind. It was time for the big spell hed used against the Predator Trees to make an appearance.<blockquote>


    [Using the skill Fire Storm.]</blockquote>


    The massive insect, the ck Pearl Centipede, was assaulted with the mes of Fire Storm. But only for a moment. Sung-gus eyes grew wide.


    My magic is being swallowed by those ck mes.


    The red mes disappeared, swallowed whole.


    And those mes have be even fiercer.


    After preying on the red mes, the ck mes became stronger. They decreased in size, but Choi Sung-gu could feel that they were incredibly pure. It was like he was peering into the endless depths of darkness.


    Hyaa!


    Hyukjins eyes were bloodshot. He directed every ounce of his strength into the hand holding Isabel. A voice rang out in his head.


    (Husband. What are you doing?!)


    He couldnt hear Isabels voice properly. He only had one chance, one chance to kill the ck Pearl Centipede. If he missed it, he would be the one getting hunted.


    Hyukjin pulled out Isabel.


    Before it goes back into stealth<blockquote>


    [Using the special skill sh Step.]</blockquote>


    He mbered onto its head with sh Step.


    One more time.<blockquote>


    [Using the skill Sword of Insight.]</blockquote>


    He plunged Isabel into the centipedes head again.


    <em>Splurt!</em>


    Green blood spurted onto Hyukjins face and body along with the sound of tearing flesh.


    <em>Tzzzzzzz!</em>


    Hyukjins skin burned. It was painful, but not unbearable.


    Meanwhile, Sung-gu used Fire Arrow to strike various parts of the centipedes body.


    (You crazy husband! Answer me, what are you doing?!)


    At the same time, the ck mes on Isabels de billowed even bigger. The mes Hyukjin had lit were pure ckfire. But Choi Sung-gu found those mes blinding now.


    I cant see.


    The fire magician closed his eyes. The mes were so bright he couldnt even open his eyes and look at them. And he was someone who was imbued with the Tome of the Divine Fire Physique.


    Just what the hell is happening right now?


    This wasnt Hyukjins own strength. Even Sung-gu knew that much.


    Isabels strength?


    Isabel was amplifying the fire ki with her own strength. To Sung-gu, the phenomenon felt simr to the manifestation of magic, like transcendent magic was being used.


    The ck mes swallowed the ck Pearl Centipede, head, legs, and all.


    <em>Thud! Thud!</em>


    <em>Thuuuud!</em>


    It iled in agony, writhing every which way in convulsions that shook the entire chamber. It was almost like there was an earthquake.


    Its body shriveled up. As all of the poison and moisture in its body burned up, the giant centipede dried up like an octopus on the grill.


    Hyukjins consciousness dimmed.


    Im dizzy.


    He managed <em>something</em>, that was for sure. Isabel had helped him a great deal. But he was too dizzy. His mind went fuzzy.<blockquote>


    [The quest Hunt the ck Pearl Centipede Boss Monster! has been cleared.]</blockquote>


    Simultaneously, Isabels de began to crack. It was different from the hairline cracks she had sustained thus far. The crack went straight through the de, and it looked as if she would break at a light touch.


    Hyukjin desperately held onto his dimming consciousness. And then, he knew.


    If things go on


    Isabel would shatter.

 Chapter 247

    Chapter 247


    Hyukjin felt as if he were trapped in a dark ce.


    Where am I?


    It was silent. Amidst the stillness, he could see nothing.


    What about the ck Pearl Centipede?


    He remembered enveloping Isabel in the ckfire that made up the ckfire Bow with Athenaes pure mes as a base. He also remembered burning the ck Pearl Centipede to a crisp with that. And then, his consciousness had dimmed.


    Did I ck out?


    But his mind was too clear for that to be the case. He tried moving his fingersthey moved normally.


    What about Isabel?


    She wasnt in his hand up until a moment ago, but he suddenly began to see her. He heard her voice.


    (You killed me.)


    <em>Crack</em>


    Cracks began to spider along Isabels de.


    Just like the ss of thepass that had broken earlier.


    <em>Crack</em>


    <em>Cra-crack</em>


    With that sound, silver dust fell from Isabels de.


    He heard the same voice, speaking the same line.


    (You killed me.)


    Isabels de broke in half.


    <em>ng.</em>


    One half of the broken de fell to the ground. The sword turned red. Blood seeped from it. Red blood.


    (You killed me.)


    The other half fell to the ground as well, leaving just the hilt. Blood seeped from the hilt, staining Hyukjins hand. The hot blood ran down his hand and down his wrist to soak his clothes.


    (I wanted to live.)


    Hyukjin felt dizzy, like he had lost a lot of blood.


    (Why? Why did you kill me?)


    Behind that voice


    <em>Wake up. Wake up. Wake up.</em>


    He had the feeling he heard another voice.


    <em>Wake up. Please.</em>


    It rang faintly in his ears.


    (Im your bride. So why?)


    And that other voice.


    <em>Husband!</em>


    It suddenly urred to Hyukjin that something was strange.


    She died?


    Isabel died?


    Then whos the one talking to me right now?


    She died, but she was talking. It was strange, something that couldnt normally happen.


    Somethings been distorted.


    That moment, Hyukjin realized.


    He looked at the hot, red blood running down his hand and dripping onto the ground.


    This ce is really dark.


    There wasnt a single ray of light.


    And yet, I can see the red blood.


    He could see it strangely well. That meant this was a distorted space. As soon as he recognized the distortion, an incantation began to flow unbidden from Hyukjins lips, flowing out without his conscious awareness as if it were carved into his body and lips.


    He had, after all, gone through the process of smashing through fabricated authorities and distorted illusions.


    Illusions and apparitions, distortions and lies, cannot covet me.


    No matter what ravine of evil in this world I must traverse.


    No evil power that seeks to harm me can vite me.


    Such is the power of intuition.


    The Eye of Insight that sees the true nature of things.


    Hyukjins voice changed. A low voice that was not his own rumbled from his lips.


    <em>[May all lies.]</em>


    <em>[Be shattered.]</em>


    And then, the fake world enclosing him shattered. Light began to stream in.


    (Are you awake now?)


    This time, it was a white space. It wasnt darkthere was light. But that was all. In his hand was a cracked Isabel. He heard her voice.


    She spoke quickly, like she was being chased by something.


    (No matter what happens, I wont resent you, husband.)


    (Even if I die.)


    (So dont be fooled by a false illusion like that.)


    Hyukjin realized what happened. While he was unloading everything he had, he was hit by the ck Pearl Centipedes illusion attack. Normally, Eye of Perception would defend him from such attacks, but he had just expended too much strength and was very mentally fatigued. He guessed that was why he hadnt been able to fend off the ck Pearl Centipedes final attack.


    (I wont ever me you, never. Because that is the Sword''s Contract I signed.)


    (The Tome of the Divine Sword Physique. You got it, right?)


    Hyukjin remembered. Yes, he acquired it. It was a direct reward from the System.<blockquote>


    [The quest Hunt the ck Pearl Centipede Boss Monster! has been cleared.]


    [Distributing the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique.]</blockquote>


    His briefly cut-off memories returned to him like the iing tide.<blockquote>


    [The Dwarf Elders Blessing is in effect.]</blockquote>


    There were twists and turns, but Hyukjin achieved the result he wanted. It had gone as Hyukjin nned.<blockquote>


    [The Breath of Production takes effect on the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique.]


    [The Breath of Production produces another Tome of the Divine Sword Physique.]


    [The production sess rate is determined by the yers enhancement talent.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin thought back to the situation that had just passed. When he took the ck Pearl Centipedes illusion attack, and when he shattered the illusion with his incantation, that was when Breath of Production took effect.<blockquote>


    [The Tome of the Divine Sword Physique has been sessfully produced.]


    [You have acquired an additional Tome of the Divine Sword Physique.]


    [The additional Tome of the Divine Sword Physique will be valid for the remaining duration of the Dwarf Elders Blessing.]</blockquote>


    In a few days, this Tome of the Divine Sword Physique would disappear. It was only duplicated for a very short period of time.


    I got it. The Tome of the Divine Sword Physique.


    Isabel responded immediately.


    (Use it right away.)


    Cracks continued to spread along Isabels de. Hyukjin knew that this time, it wasnt an illusion. It was real. Isabel was really breaking. He could feel it, as someone who shared a mental connection with her.


    I can feel Isabels pain.


    She was truly in agony right now. She just wasnt showing it. Despite suffering from the pain of her entire body burning and crumbling apart, she wasnt showing him that. In his minds eye, he saw a woman thrashing in pain.


    Hyukjin immediately used the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique without a word of resistance.<blockquote>


    [Absorb the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique?]


    [Absorbing the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique requires the appropriate talent.]</blockquote>


    A very short moment, just a few seconds, passed.<blockquote>


    [Absorbing the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique.]</blockquote>


    It was like when he absorbed the Tome of the Divine Bow Physique. A storm of blue mana enveloped Hyukjin, swirling violently around him before getting sucked into his body.<blockquote>


    [The trait Divine Sword Physique has been generated.]</blockquote>


    He got another trait. That made twoone being the Divine Bow Physique, the other the Divine Sword Physique.<blockquote>


    [An entity in a Sword''s Contract exists.]


    [The damage to the entity in the Sword''s Contract is severe.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin knew that the ability he had just used wasnt his own.


    Isabel helped me.


    She had majorly overdone it. It was no wonder manifesting ckfire had felt so easy. That wasnt Hyukjin himself, but something he achieved through Isabels help.


    The question of how Isabel, a sword, managed that, didnt ur to him. The only thing he could think of right now was that Isabel had helped him.


    This is the aftermath.


    She had drawn and used too much of a sealed ability. For him, Kim Hyukjin, Isabel risked her own destruction.


    * * *


    * * *


    He heard her voice.


    (Husband. Dont just stand there all starry-eyed with gratitude. Ill really die at this rate.)


    Hyukjin snapped back to his senses. She was right. This was no time to be immersed in gratitude. Hyukjin had the feeling he would regret it his whole life long if Isabel was really destroyed. Even though she was just an item, that was how it was.


    I


    He instinctively knew what he needed to do. He knew, without anyone teaching him how.


    ...will invest everything in my Willpower stat.


    Now wasnt the time to be flicking abacus beads. There wasnt much time. The destruction Isabel had undergone in the illusion was bing a reality. 20 bonus stats. 25 random stats. He still had a staggering 45 stats in reserve, stats hed been saving to use at a critical time.<blockquote>


    [Investing stats in Willpower.]</blockquote>


    He used all 45 in one go, not skimping on a single one. He had the feeling he couldnt afford to be stingy. At least in this moment, he didnt stop to make any rational calctions whatsoever.<blockquote>


    [Willpower is increasing.]</blockquote>


    His Willpower was originally 17 (+30), which made 47. 45 was added to that, bringing it to a total of 92. Technically, it was 62 (+30).


    The Status Window popped up on its own.<blockquote>


    [Status Window]


    Name: Kim Hyukjin (yer)


    Level: 39


    Contracted Guardian: [Nameless Observer]


    Title: [Pioneer of Victory] [Excellent yer] [First Adversary] [Pure Person of Fire] [Phantom Thief Squirrels Master] [Starting Sovereign] [Starting Fighter] [Thousand Dog Master]


    Dungeon title: [True Ruler of the Gran Seoul Dungeon] [True Ruler of the Predator Tree Colony]


    Innate ability: [Eye of Perception] [Sword of Insight]


    Special ability: [Absorption] [Mettle] [Eye for an Eye, Tooth for a Tooth] [Immortal Fleet]


    Trait: Divine Bow Physique, Divine Sword Physique


    Strength: 24


    Intelligence: 24


    Agility: 30


    Perception: 24


    Constitution: 24


    Willpower: 62 (+30)


    Bonus stats: 0


    Random stats: 0


    Undistributed stats: 0</blockquote>


    His Willpower stat shot up, and with it, his connection with Isabel solidified. Hyukjin let out an unconscious cry of pain, his heart feeling as if it would explode.


    This is just a small part of the pain Isabel is feeling.


    A portion of her pain was being ryed to him. Even that small portion was unbearable. It felt like he was going to die, that his skin was boiling up and would soon burst.<blockquote>


    [Confirming the presence of the Divine Sword Physique trait and the linked Sword''s Contract.]</blockquote>


    His much higher Willpower stat strengthened the contract further, enhancing his connection with Isabel.<blockquote>


    [The Sword''s Contract is elevated to the Swords Pact.]


    [Partially unsealing Isabels abilities.]</blockquote>


    Golden light began to shimmer from Isabels de, expanding outwards. That very moment, he had the feeling that something immense, something he couldnt handle, was destroying his body.


    Now!


    Hyukjin instinctively realized that now was the correct time to use Absorption. There was no time to think. It was because he had thought about Absorption multiple times before entering the gate that he was able to use it in that fleeting moment.<blockquote>


    [Using the special ability Absorption.]</blockquote>


    He used the ability that absorbed all physical damage taken over 0.5 seconds.


    The pain is fading.


    It eased a little. He had no idea what just happened, but he knew he had just blocked something dangerous using Absorption.


    Isabels body is recovering.<blockquote>


    [Isabels innate authority, Repair, is taking effect.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin nearly copsed. It was like all the mana in his body was being rapidly sucked out. If he hadnt thrown 45 stats into Willpower, he might have very well be a mummy.


    But this


    Only then did he realize the strangeness of the situation.


    ...feels like magic.


    It then urred to him that Isabel had also helped him light the ckfire earlier, too. Applying the ckfire to her de was, of course, her power as well. Thinking back, he was sure of it.


    It wasnt me.


    He was convinced that Isabel, a sword, had freely used magic.<blockquote>


    [Isabels seal has been partially lifted.]</blockquote>


    At the same time, he heard a voice.


    Dont think anything weird, Husband.


    The words werenting from inside his mind. They were spoken aloud and registered by his ears. In this world full of light, appeared a woman.


    She was a woman with golden hair, amber eyes rimmed by gold and yellow, and wreathed in white light.


    He could only see her face.


    Ah


    Kim Hyukjin couldnt take his eyes off her.


    Be it Shin Yeonseo, acknowledged by all as pretty, or Cheon Sooji, acknowledged by all as bewitching, or even Senia, who drew the gazes and admiration of all whenever she appeared, he could not see any of them as women.


    He had never once thought, Shes really, truly beautiful about any woman. It was only ever at the level of, Oh, shes pretty.


    But what he felt now waspletely different. He couldnt see her body. The light was too strong. He could only see her face. And yet, Hyukjin felt that this woman was truly beautiful. He couldnt tear his eyes away. His heart began to thump wildly.


    Oh my God.


    The womans hair swayed gently, even though there was no wind. Her lips parted, and her face reddened a little.


    Im a sword.


    She smiled.


    Not a lousy magician.

 Chapter 248

    Chapter 248


    In this bright world, this white world where only light seemed to exist, stood a woman with golden hair. Her name was Isabel.


    Isabel.


    She wasnt a sword. She looked human.


    Oh my God.


    He shook his head. This was a sword. An artifact. Not a person. But why was his heart thumping so hard? The moment he saw her, his heart started to race.


    He heard Isabels voice.


    Did you hear what I said?


    ...


    Answer me!


    Isabel raised her voice. Only then did Hyukjin lurch back to his senses.


    Ah. Ah sorry.


    Repeat after me. Isabel is a sword.


    ...


    Hurry.


    Isabel is a sword.


    Shes not good at stuff like magic.


    Shes not good at stuff like magic.


    Shes also not good at stuff like beating.


    Shes also not good at stuff like beating.


    Shes a person who walks the dignified and graceful path of swordsmanship.


    Shes a per Hyukjin stared at Isabel. Person?


    Not a sword?


    Im a person right now. Her face reddened a little. Though I havent been able to take my full form yet.


    She didnt have aplete human form. She was only human from the neck up; the rest of her was enveloped in light.


    Its because you still have a ways to grow, she added.


    If I reach my full growth, will you be able to achieve your full form?


    Yeah. When that happens, Ill be able to protect you by your side. With my true appearance.


    Isabels words echoed in his ears.


    If I grow


    He wanted to grow. For Sunhwa. And for the happiness he was enjoying now. To fulfill his desire to grow stronger itself. And finally, to allow Isabel to manifest herplete form.


    Husband.


    What?


    Um


    He couldnt see Isabels body. But Hyukjin could somehow feel that she was twisting and squirming in ce a little. She wasnt actually doing that, but Eye of Perception captured Isabels emotions.


    Youre not disappointed?


    About what?


    You always told me Im pretty.


    He did. He did it offhandedly to appease Isabel, an item. They were empty words of praise to humor and coax an item.


    Now that her real face was in front of him, the words, Youre pretty, stuck in his throat like taffy. She was truly pretty, more beautiful than anyone in the world. At least in Hyukjins eyes, she was prettier than Senia.


    Its fine. Tch. Whyd I bother asking about something so pointless? Isabel grumbled to herself. Im Isabel. Isabel.


    ...


    Whatever. Its not important whether Im pretty or not in your eyes. It doesnt change that theres a sacred contract between us, a Swords Pact.


    ...


    And well, what would you do if I wasnt pretty, anyway? Isabel recovered her confidence. Im <em>Isabel</em>.


    Hyukjin read one flow from Isabel, a powerful stream of mana. Even the light wreathing her body was mana he couldntprehend.


    Whats the mana around your body?


    This? Isabel frowned a little. You dont need to know. Its nothing.


    It didnt seem like nothing to him, but Hyukjin just let it go.


    Husband. Im going to go back to looking like a sword. I was able to manifest for a moment thanks to you absorbing the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique, but youve still got a long way to go.


    ...


    Hyukjins heart sank with sincere regret. He wanted to see Isabel a little longer. That was how he truly felt.


    Call me when youre in a really dangerous spot. Your Willpower stat is pretty decent right now, and you should be able to use me, to some extent.


    He didnt really like the word use, but he quickly nodded.


    Got it.


    You know Ill be by your side even though Ill be going back to being a sword, right? Isabel shot him a re. The Arrow-Shooting Cupid. That piece of trash gave Senia a mission.


    In front of him was an artifact that dared to call a Guardian a piece of trash. He already knew she was different, but it was more shocking to hear the words spoken aloud.


    Shes too pretty. Keep some distance.


    ...


    Wheres my answer?


    In the end, Hyukjin decided to be honest.


    Its just His heart beat painfully against his chest. Shes not pretty to me.


    Hows a girl like her not pretty? Even I think shes pretty.


    Hyukjin cracked a grin. He asked a question.


    Isabel.


    What?


    Your abilities will be unsealed as I grow, right?


    Right. Ill grow as you do, husband.


    Your current form, what level is it now?


    Isabel thought for a moment. The level of a preschool child.


    From that, Hyukjin realized something. The fact she was so easy to appease, that she was a little childish, was all because he hadnt been able to bring out her full form yet.


    Because Im weak, Isabel cant show me her true appearance. The same goes for her mind.


    He was sure of it.


    If I be stronger


    Isabel would, little by little, assume her original appearance and personality.


    Let me ask one more thing.


    Okay. But theres not much time. Ask me quickly.


    Whats the rtionship between you and the Queen of the Sword Forest, Isabel?


    -------.


    Isabel answered him, but Hyukjin couldnt hear it.


    Its information Im not currently allowed to know.


    It didnt matter. He got to meet Isabel. For Hyukjin, that alone was a big gain.


    Dont you dare cheat on me. Ill be watching with my eyes peeled.


    Okay.


    Thanks to the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique, Ill be able to stay awake for longer. Keep that in mind.


    Got it.


    He had no intention of cheating anyway. The moment he saw Isabel for the first time, he fell for her, head first.


    You answered so fast that Im a little suspicious now.


    You dont have to be suspicious. I mean it, Hyukjin said. When you return to being a sword, youll be able to read my mind.


    Thats true.


    You can read my mind as much as you want.


    It urred to him that it was better to express his feelings with his mind than to do so with words. <em>Youre super pretty. Youre beautiful. As soon as I saw you, it was love at first sight.</em> Reading his mind would be way more concise and easier to understand than hearing such cringe.


    Ah, right. You really have to keep this in mind: Im not a magician. You know that, right?


    Contrary to her words, the mana storm enveloping Isabel right now was screaming, IM AN ARCHMAGE! He also recalled what Elder Bufafa said.


    <em>Heavenly talent, ursed.</em>


    <em>The esteemed one is engraved with a stigma so deep that I cannot fathom its depths with my skill.</em>


    Hyukjin nodded.


    Got it.


    With that, the bright world began to fade. He heard a faint voice.


    Oh, almost forgot. An innate authority of mine was unlocked.


    He returned to the real world.


    * * *


    * * *


    ...kay?


    The voice sounded far away.


    Are you okay?!


    It was Choi Sung-gu.


    Are you okay, man?!


    Hyukjin answered, Yeah, Im okay.


    He slowly sat up.


    Fuck! You scared me! Whyd you go and ck out all of a sudden?!


    Still on the ground, Hyukjin stared at Sung-gu and found big tears welled up in the mans eyes. There were also streaks of tears down his cheeks, now smudged with dust.


    What? Did you cry?


    And it wasnt just a littleSung-gus face was a mess of tears.


    Who cried? Im the Jayangdong Fire Master.


    Wipe off your snot.


    It was evident that tears and snot had been running down the fire magicians face.


    Fuck. Whyd your heart stop?


    My heart stopped?


    Yeah. It stopped for quite a while, you son of a bitch.


    He understood now why Sung-gu had been so rmed.


    My heart stopped?


    What was that all about? Hyukjin put a hand to his chest.


    <em>Thump. Thump.</em>


    His heartbeat was exceedingly stable.


    Im fine now. Dont worry.


    I wasnt worrying about you, you jerk! Sung-gu hid his tearful face in the crook of his elbow, then proceeded to provide an unasked-for exnation. I just got something in my eye. And it wasnt that I was worrying about you or anything, but that I was worrying about how to get out of here.


    Choi Sung-gu looked around. They were still inside the Centipede Cave. Though they had sessfully killed the boss monster, the ck Pearl Centipede, they hadnt been able to leave the gate yet, irrefutable proof that there was still an unfulfilled clear condition. In cases like this, you normally looked for the Clear Crystal.


    This whole area is blocked off.


    The ck Pearl Centipedes corpse was gone. All the exits leading out were blocked, leaving no path out. There was also no Clear Crystal to be seen.


    I dont see a Clear Crystal anywhere. What do we do, friend?


    Hm.


    Hyukjin got up.


    This is a ce made for getting the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique.


    Meaning, it wasnt an ordinary ce. Thankfully, he now had the Divine Sword Physique trait.


    So ultimately, I think were supposed to do something using the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique.


    Hyukjin walked around the circr chamber, checking each of the exits that were blocked off by boulders.


    We need to get out of here. The Clear Crystal isnt here.


    How do we do that?


    By cutting our way out. Through the wall.


    The wall? How?


    Hyukjin took out Isabel, grasping her hilt. Something felt different this time. Though he had held the sword many times before, the feeling in his hand was different. His mindset towards Isabel had changed as well. Now, she was no longer just a whiny artifact, but someone he had to restore and nurture by all means.


    With Isabel in his hand, Hyukjin walked forward.


    I will be stronger.


    Hey, whatre you trying to do? asked Sung-gu. Howre you gonna cut the


    Sung-gu shut his mouth mid-sentence.


    Something about him has changed.


    Hyukjin had gone unconscious and his heart had stopped. Choi Sung-gu didnt know what, but something had <em>definitely </em>happened during that time.


    The way he looks when hes walking


    How should he describe it?


    A sword?


    It looked as if Hyukjin himself had be a sword, as if a sword was walking forward. Sung-gu rubbed his eyes.


    Whats going on?


    Kim Hyukjin was Kim Hyukjin, not a sword. Sung-gu already knew about the realm of being one with the sword. Shin Yeonseo had reached that stage, and Hyukjin had shown it to him before as well. But what Sung-gu was seeing now wasnt just that.


    It feels different from the one with the sword realm.


    He couldnt put it into words, but something had certainly changed.


    Come to think of it, it feels simr when he uses the bow.


    When Hyukjin attacked themander in the Immortal Fleet Gate, Sung-gu had been too shocked and bewildered to see things clearly. But hed gotten a simr feeling then as well. Back then, Hyukjin looked like a giant bow.


    It came to Sung-gu in a sh of understanding.


    Hespletely absorbed the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique.


    The Tome of the Divine Bow Physique, and the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique. He had perfectly absorbed both divine tomes.


    Kim Hyukjin stopped in front of the blocked-off wall.


    Anything I can do to help? asked Sung-gu loudly.


    No.


    Got it. Ill just squat here.


    Sung-gu decided to stay out of the way and watch carefully. Hyukjin had gained a serendipitous chance just moments ago. He wanted to see with his two eyes just how much that serendipitous chance had boosted this already crazy monster. Sung-gus heartbeat quickened a little.


    Lets see just how much youve jumped up in those few moments.


    Seeing Hyukjins growth always sent a thrill down Sung-gus spine. A sense of longing towards the strong, and the burning desire to chase them, were qualities possessed by every Ranker fundamentally. Choi Sung-gu was the same.


    There are no enemies, and hes probably being recorded right now.


    That meant Hyukjin would show his most shy and powerful technique. He would give the Guardians a spectacle theyd go wild for.


    What will he show us?


    In that cave, Choi Sung-gu was able to witness Kim Hyukjins new ability.

 Chapter 249

    Chapter 249


    Hyukjin stood in front of the blocked-off wall. He raised Isabel, feeling as though he had be one with her.


    A stage slightly higher than one with the sword.


    Even Hyukjin himself didnt know what to call this.


    No.


    The one with the sword he had achieved before wasnt the <em>true </em>one with the sword. Where he was at now was the state of one with the sword Rankers had spoken of in the past. That, he felt keenly.


    Isabels de began to vibrate, and an opaque aura rippled from her edge.


    Sung-gu noticed it. Whats that? He peered closerthe opaque aura soon turned ck. ckfire?


    But it was different from pure ckfire. It was a new aura unique to Kim Hyukjin, one he created using ckfire as a base.


    I used a top quality energy called ckfire as a foundation.


    Senia was working hard to record the scene before her. They had to produce a scene that would whip the Guardians into a frenzy, and to that end, Hyukjin was going out of his way to provide information aloud.


    After exuding that energy


    Currently, Hyukjin was in the true state of one with the sword.


    I processed it through a medium, Isabel, into a new type of energy possessing a powerful cutting force...


    He raised Isabel. The sword shimmered with ck energy.


    ...thus producing a unique wavelength only Isabel, and only I, can wield.


    Isabels abilities were partially unsealed. That, inbination with Hyukjin getting the Divine Sword Physique trait, gave birth to a new ability: Isabel and Hyukjins new authority.<blockquote>


    [Using the innate authority Sword Ki.]


    [The energy used as a base for Sword Ki is set to ckfire.]</blockquote>


    Sword Ki, the technique used by expert period swordsman yers in the past. Hyukjin had achieved it at just level 39.


    Hyukjin swung Isabel from top to bottom.


    His sword felt perfectly right in his hand, and he felt something leave his body.


    It feels way better than when I use the ckfire Bow.


    It was easier, and it felt more <em>right.</em> Hyukjins talent as an archer was second to none. But it seemed his talent for swordsmanship was even greater than his talent for archery. Rtively speaking.


    I also had Isabels help.


    It was clearly far better to use an already existing transcendent item as a medium than to create a ckfire Bow using the Ink Bow as a base.<blockquote>


    [You are the first to discover Sword Ki.]


    [A hidden condition has been fulfilled.]


    [The hidden quest By Following the Traces of the Sword Forest has been generated.]</blockquote>


    Sung-gu saw it.


    A path has been opened.


    A long, vertical slit appeared in the thick, tall wall.


    The slit widened, parting into two halves. Sung-gu walked forward like he was entranced. He watched as a passage more than wide enough for two people to walk abreast appeared.


    He touched the cut edge.


    The surface


    The cut was impossibly clean. Hyukjins sword had cleaved the boulder like it was paper, cutting open a path ten meters high and who knows how deep. They would need to walk through to find out.


    ...is almost like ice.


    It was so clean it was almost slippery to the touch.


    And here I was, wondering what you were gonna show that required so much buildup.


    The buildup seemed worth it. Sung-gu had never seen anything like this. Even Koreas best swordswoman, Shin Yeonseo, couldnt produce such sheer force. No, Sung-gu thought even Jo Sunghyun, a sorcerer who far outstripped a swordsman in sheer destructive power, and one who wielded very sharp wind magic at that, couldnt achieve this.


    I dont think even Sunghyun could do this.


    Lets go.


    Okay.


    Sung-gu epted it quickly. Nothing woulde of being surprised. It was a daily urrence when ying with this monster, anyway. He decided not to let anything faze him anymore.


    Hyukjin took the lead, and Sung-gu followed.


    Hey, Hyukjin. Im really curious about something.


    Mm.


    Youre honestly better at the sword than Yeonseo, right?


    Hard to say.


    Hyukjin believed he was several steps above Yeonseo in producing cutting force like this by using sword ki. But PVP was another matterYeonseo had an outstanding sense for PVP.


    The way I see it, youre stronger than Yeonseo.


    That might be true now. Hyukjins mind flickered to Yeonseos Guardian, the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain. But theres no doubt Yeonseo will be stronger than me.


    What are you saying? Didnt you say youre stronger now?


    The art Yeonseo is learning is far better than the one Im learning. Yeonseo is learning a martial art.


    A martial art?


    This was a world of magic and martial arts. That in itself wasnt strange.


    And that martial art is the best in the world.


    Hyukjin bet that the True Master would be extremely happy to hear this. He was a Guardian who loved when people acknowledged and extolled his merits. He was also a Guardian who would answer in turn with generous sponsorships.


    Once Yeonseo absorbs the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique, shell probably be stronger than me.


    Mm. That so?


    Sung-gus eyes narrowed skeptically, but he nodded in the next beat, noticing what Hyukjin was intending.


    This rascals saying that on purpose.


    Hyukjin was hooking in the True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain right now. What would happen if Hyukjin said all this and Yeonseo ended up being weaker than him? That would mean the True Masters martial art was weaker, considering both Yeonseo and Hyukjin had the Divine Sword Physique.


    Hyukjin grinned.


    Hell shower Yeonseo with investments, if only to make her stronger than me. For the sake of his pride.


    They walked further.


    Hey, Hyukjin. I can feel the Clear Crystal!


    The fire magician sensed the Clear Crystal first, something Hyukjin was happy to see. Despite Hyukjin having Eye of Perception and Observers Eye, Sung-gu sensed it first, meaning the other man was more sensitive in this respect.


    Thats great.


    He might be kicking up a fuss with loudints all the time, but Choi Sung-gu was growing as he should. Before long, Hyukjin began to sense the Clear Crystal as well.


    Sung-gu shook his head back and forth.


    Holy cow. He raised the Clear Crystal into the air. Its on the verge of shattering into pieces.


    Sung-gus gaze alternated from the Clear Crystal to Kim Hyukjin in bafflement.


    Youre really something. I think we walked a good one hundred plus steps to get here.


    With a single sh, not only did Hyukjin cut a crisp passage through the wall, but he also nearly destroyed the Clear Crystal.


    Ill break it, Sung-gu dered, before destroying the Clear Crystal.<blockquote>


    [The Centipede Cave has been cleared.]


    [Distributing the ck Pearl Centipedes Corpse as the clear reward for the Centipede Cave.]</blockquote>


    The ck Pearl Centipedes Corpse was sent to Sung-gus Inventory. No wonder it had disappearedit had been converted into a System reward.


    Eurgh, I dont want this shit!


    Sung-gu shuddered in disgust as he took out the ck Pearl Centipedes Corpse from his Inventory. The great corpse appeared with a resounding thud, looking exactly as it had when it was alive. It was clickable, and therefore, it could be transferred into ones Inventory. Hyukjin stowed the ck Pearl Centipedes Corpse away.


    Ill take this.


    Okay, please do.


    They cleared Plum Blossom Inds Centipede Cave. As Hyukjin thought, there was something special about the ce.


    I obtained and absorbed the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique here.


    That wasnt the only important milestone.


    Through that, I acquired a new ability called Sword Ki.


    And <em>that </em>allowed him to get By Following the Traces of the Sword Forest. Ever since he met Elder Bufafa, he knew that the Sword Forest was an actual ce. Here, he managed to get another clue about Isabel and Elder Bufafas homnd, the Sword Forest.


    For now


    He decided to go back home and rest a little.


    * * *


    * * *


    Kim Ahyoung cooked a gochujang stew. She made the stock with anchovy and radish, then plopped slices of pork neck she had seared into the boiling red soup.


    Are the braised short ribs done?


    She marinated the short ribs in a specially made BBQ sauce for over twelve hours, then slow-braised them another twelve hours in a steamer.


    Kim Darong. Wait.


    Kim Darong froze in the middle of reaching for the short ribs like he was bound by magic.


    Sit.


    Kim Darong sat.<blockquote>


    [;;;]</blockquote>


    Saliva dripped from his mouth. Kim Ahyoung stared at the squirrel. Kim Darong being here meant Hyukjin would soon arrive as well. It was obvious that the squirrel had scrambled up in a frenzy after smelling the short ribs, incapable of waiting for the elevator.


    Ahyoung said firmly, Wait. Youll get some after we eat.


    Ahyoung made her standing clear. Darongi didnt dare defy her. He waited, sucking hungrily on his paw.


    <em>Beepbeepbeepbeep.</em>


    The front door lock beeped.


    Smells good.


    I just threw something together out of boredom.


    There was clearly far too much work put into the meal for it to have been made out of boredom. On the table was a pot of piping hot gochujang stew, delicious-smelling braised beef short ribs, and a flourish of bright red kimchi that looked freshly made.


    I just made it for practice, so eat it or dont eat it, I dont care, Ahyoung said curtly.


    Thanks. Ill dly eat, Noona. I was pretty hungry. Ill do the dishesor actually, Darongi will do them.


    Darongi was good at doing the dishes, too. He was a pet of many talents.<blockquote>


    [;;;]</blockquote>


    Darongi expressed his reluctance with sweat marks,


    Ill give you plenty of short ribs.


    but he quickly epted the deal.


    Noona. Thank you so much. Its really, super good.


    ...


    She was definitely good enough to aspire to be a chef.


    Have you looked into getting a new instructor? That, err, super famous chef you told me about?


    Ahyoung was currently doing assistant work in a Korean restaurant. Even though she was working hard, she wasnt learning anything satisfactory, so she told him she wanted to find a better instructor.


    I did, but Ahyoungs expression darkened a little.


    What? Hes too busy?


    Guess so. Its not like I have any particr work experience or anything. Just some shabby kitchen assistant work.


    That so?


    Hyukjin ced a tender chunk of short rib on his white rice, then put a piece of fresh kimchi on top. When he brought it all to his mouth, the rich vor of the short ribs and the sweet and sour aroma of the fresh kimchi melted in a harmonious symphony on his tongue.


    Whats that chefs name?


    Michael.


    Ah. Michael?


    Hyukjin remembered who that was.


    Michelles little brother?


    He was a world-famous chef.


    From the looks of it, she didnt even have a chance.


    Michael probably didnt even agree to meet Ahyoung.


    Shes still my sister. He should have at least given her a chance.


    He wasnt just making it upAhyoungs cooking was really delicious. Hyukjin couldnt force Michael to teach his sister, but he could make the chef meet her once. He could give her a chance.


    If that doesnt work out, its fine. I can just open a restaurant for her.


    If his sister wanted, of course.


    Ahyoung interrupted his thoughts.


    Hey.


    Hm?


    Did you get a girlfriend?


    Hyukjin coughed. Even the mighty Kim Hyukjin who had top Rankers and Guardians dancing on his palm was blindsided by Ahyoungs question.


    What are you saying all of a sudden?


    Youre sus.


    Sus how?


    Youre just sus. Theres a weird vibe around you.


    ...


    Why arent you denying it?


    Well


    Should he call her his girlfriend? How should he introduce her? She was his bride, but it was contractual. Should he say that she was a sword?


    His thoughts were a bit of a mess.


    Be good to her.


    Huh?


    Anyone whod date a boring guy like you must be a pretty nice girl.


    ...


    He wanted to refute her, but she was also kinda right. Hyukjin finished eating, did the dishes with Kim Darong, and went back to his room.


    Today, like always, there was a Yellow Charm stuck to the underside of his desk.


    Its there again.


    His sister reced the charm every day. She didnt seem to tire of it. It was stupid, but Hyukjin was truly grateful for such foolishness. He sat at the desk and organized his thoughts. There was much to do. He decided to start with the task he could finish most quickly and easily.


    Hyukjin contacted one of the members of Giantgod, the future Typhoon, Jo Sunghyun.


    Lets have a quick chat.


    There were a few things they needed to discuss about the contract.

 Chapter 250

    Chapter 250


    <em>Lets have a quick chat.</em>


    Hyukjin and Jo Sunghyun met up.


    Sunghyun was taciturn by nature. Only in front of Choi Sung-gu and Kim Hyukjin did he be talkative, although naturally, his attitude in front of Sung-gu and Hyukjin were day and night apart.


    Their meeting ce of choice was Giantgod Guilds office. Offices of guilds like Taeguk Shield or Blood and Iron Lion had formally dressed secretaries or attendants to escort visitors or brew tea, but Giantgod didnt have anything like that.


    It was just the two of them in the office.


    Heres the contract, Hyung.


    Sunghyun took out the contract from his Inventory. Inside the yellow man envelope was the agreement Sunghyun was making with the government.


    Hyukjin read through the document.


    To sum it up In exchange for getting the governments support, you must immediately respond to the governments requests for assistance. He looked up from the contract. What support are they offering?


    Lending me special transportation means like helicopters, as you saw before. Allowing me to use the bus-exclusivene on the highway. The right to direct civilians in an emergency. Stuff like that.


    Hyukjins brow furrowed a little.


    Is that all?


    Yes.


    Listen to me, Sunghyun. Needing a helicopter would mean its an emergency situation, right?


    Yes, it would.


    In an emergency situation, do you want the helicopter more urgently, or does the government?


    ...


    When Sunghyun thought about it for a bit, the government was more pressed to use the helicopter than himthey had to put out the fire quickly.


    The government is the one pressed for time. Same goes for the bus-exclusive highwayne or whatever. And the right to direct the civilians, can you even call that a right?


    Sunghyun might think of it as one, considering how much value he put on the public good and justice. That was how some people might see it, and Hyukjin didnt think that was a bad thing.


    They call it a right, but itll actually be an obligation, a liability. What do you think will happen if you fail to exercise your directing rights and an unfortunate ident urs? Youll be the one held responsible.


    ...Is that so?


    All the government has to do is put the me on you. An outstanding yer like yourself failed to properly control the situation, resulting in an ident. Case closed.


    Hyukjin scoffed.


    Just look at these jerks.


    There wasnt a single privilege that deserved to be called a privilege. No matter how early they were in the days of ying, the government was trying to have their cake and eat it.


    I didnt want to get involved in your contracts if at all possible, but


    Sunghyun had thoughts of his own, and those decisions were entitled to respect.


    You said this contract is still provisional, right?


    Yes.


    Have you gotten any contract money?


    No.


    Other than using the helicopter once during the recent Immortal Fleet Gate incident, Sunghyun didnt owe the government a single thing.


    Then go ahead and just annul it.


    Okay.


    Hyukjin was caught off-guard by Sunghyun agreeing so readily.


    Youre not going to ask why?


    I believe the reason isnt important.


    But Hyukjin was still baffledhe had expected Sunghyun to at least ask why.


    If you say so, Hyung, it must be so.


    Sunghyun was a taciturn person. Except when he was with Sung-gu, he didnt say much, and he wasnt the type to joke.


    Hyukjins Eye of Perception captured Sunghyuns status.<blockquote>


    Summary: Little Brother Obeying His Hyung</blockquote>


    That meant at least in this moment, he wasnt a wind mage obeying his hyung, but a little brother obeying his hyung.


    Hyukjin was a little confused.


    Hold on, is this a good thing?


    It was hard to say. Sunghyun was an amazing yer in his own right. In Hyukjins past, he was one of the 8 Heroes. A titan like the Typhoon changing his mind at a single word from Hyukjin, was that really a good thing?


    Sunghyun.


    Yes, Hyung.


    Im grateful that you trust me, but its okay for you to give greater weight to your thoughts. Its not like Im a god or anything, and Ill support and help you with your ying outside of the guild wherever I can.


    Yes. Ill do so in the future. Sunghyun nodded, and his next words showed that he had urately grasped Hyukjins feelings. Youre not telling me topletely sack the agreement, right?


    Yeah, thats right.


    Hyukjin was telling him to reject the current contract ande up with a new set of conditions, notpletely give up on it.


    Yeah, so Sunghyun <em>did </em>have thoughts of his own when he answered me.


    That reassured Hyukjin a little. It wouldnt be right if one of the 8 Heroes of his past were to be reduced to a puppet.


    What conditions should I make sure are included?


    For now, tax exemption.


    In the future, a huge amount of taxes would be levied on yers. They would be categorized as ultra-high earners and made to pay 50% of their ie in taxes. Put simply, if a yer earned $1000, $500 would be taken as taxes.


    Also, guaranteed priority pick for items.


    Sunghyun had to secure first pick on the items acquired when clearing dungeons and gates with regr party members who werent contracted with the government.


    And erase any terms like patriotism and devotion altogether.


    Patriotism and devotion were noble values, but they were unconditionally unfavorable to Sunghyun. As soon as abstract words like that wormed their way into the contract, they would drag Sunghyun down. Because whatever the situation, Sunghyun would be made to sacrifice himself on the grounds of patriotism or devotion. It was better to have concrete terms in a contract.


    Lastly, put in a special use that states your Giantgod Guild work takes priority over your government work.


    Will they really ept?


    Probably not.


    Because once there was a precedent, the governments perceived losses would be significant.


    Sunghyun grinned, his expression somewhat reminiscent of Hyukjins smile.


    If they dont ept, then I need to make them ept.


    His summary changed.<blockquote>


    Summary: Little Brother Who Wants to Be Like His Beloved Hyung</blockquote>


    And one dayter, their proposal was rejected, just as Hyukjin and Sunghyun had expected.


    * * *


    * * *


    CEO Song Kiyoung was a man of great repute not just in Korea, but in the whole world. He was the leader of the global conglomerate Sungshin, as well as the true owner and sponsor of Taeguk Shield. It was even said that he ruled Korea.


    There werent many who could meet a giant like him willy-nilly. Random people might have had the chance to meet him back when he was still searching for a hair loss cure, but not anymore.


    I think you must be pretty much the only person who can spring a visit on me like this and still get a meeting with me.


    CEO Songughed breathily. He didnt look particrly displeased.


    Ah. Is the youngd next to you the famous wind magician, Jo Sunghyun?


    They exchanged simple greetings. CEO Song seemed to know why Hyukjin hade to see him.


    If this is about the contract with the government, you should be talking to the government officials, not me. Why did youe to me?


    Hyukjin smiled. Because you are the CEO of the Korean yers Association. Dont you think you need to protect the interests of the yers?


    ... Song Kiyoung was speechless for a moment. You arent wrong.


    Hyukjin continued. yers came to meet the CEO of the KPA, but the CEO of the KPA spoke to us not as the leader of the KPA, but as the leader of a conglomerate possessing financial power and authority.


    It was my mistake.


    It must be because you have the real financial power and authority.


    Hyukjin hadnt forgotten the fact that the personnel department head of the second gen KPAwhich publicly announced it had no connection to the governmentwas Kim Kangchul. That meant they werentpletely unrted to the government.


    Even after CEO Songs death, Korea remained in Sungshins clutches.


    I guess its a bit of a stretch to put it like that.


    That might be an exaggeration, but in any case, it was a definite fact that Song Kiyoung was capable of exerting his influence on the government.


    Thats quite a dangerous thing to say so nonchntly. If you say that in public somewhere, youll get me stoned for being a businessman in bed with politics.


    Sometimes, the truth is ufortable for the public to hear.


    Sunghyun watched the conversation between Kim Hyukjin and Song Kiyoung in silence. Truth was, Sunghyun was on tenterhooks right up until they entered the room. In front of him was the leader of a chaebol conglomerate, a legend he had only seen on TV. But as soon as they arrived, his nervousness faded.


    Hyukjin hyung isnt at all cowed by CEO Song Kiyoung.


    That realization soothed his nerves. The big and mighty CEO Song now felt like a mountain he could surmount. It was amazing, and it renewed one of Sunghyuns convictions.


    Deciding to work with Hyukjin hyung was a stroke of genius.


    He decided to learn Hyukjins speech, actions, even the look in his eye. Sunghyun had the feeling that everything about Hyukjin was nourishment for his growth.


    Whether the truth is ufortable or not, whether there are businessmen who are in bed with politics or not, none of that is important to me, said Hyukjin. Whats important to me is that I have the ability to open a field where plenty of Predator Seeds can be acquired.


    So you want to make a deal.


    Yes. Im sure you know that Taeguk Shield has sessfully advanced into the Boracay server.


    Indeed. I hear a lot of mana crystals are dropped there. You were right.


    Taeguk Shields Squad 2 was active in Boracay.


    Arent you making a pharmaceutical facility based on those mana crystals?


    Did Kiyeol tell you that?


    No, of course not. That would have earned him a harsh reprimanding from you. If someone with an eye on Sungshins reins were to make such a mistake, I would have cut ties with Guildmaster Song Kiyeol.


    Song Kiyoung smiled happily.


    I suppose he heard the news that were investing heavily in pharmaceutical development and made the connection to mana crystals.


    Kim Hyukjin was definitely no ordinary fellow. A pharmaceutical industry using mana crystals was a path no one had attempted yet, at least publicly. It certainly wasnt information avable to regr people.


    Continuing your research on mana crystals will be of great help to you, CEO Song.


    Im of the understanding that our discussions on mana crystals and Predator Tree Seeds are already resolved. Bringing them up again now is a littlecking to serve as a trade condition, dont you think?


    Miracle will be quite helpful.


    Miracle?


    Guildmaster Song Junghye should know about it. About Miracle.


    Miracle was originally known as a hangover cure. Butter on, Miracles uses surpassed being a simple cure for hangovers. It was used as an assist item for the production of all kinds of drugs. The prices of the same two drugs would vary depending on whether Miracle was in the ingredients list or not. In time, Miracle would be called the miraculous item without side effects.


    Predator Tree Seeds. Mana crystals. And Miracle. These three things should be a big help to you. In addition, I will try to find out about the Golden-Horned Dokkaebi by my own means.


    Hm.


    Song Kiyoung stroked his chin. Kim Hyukjin had managed to get his hands on new infothis time about something called Miracle. Saying he knew about Sungshins investment in a mana crystal-based pharmaceutical facility was Kim Hyukjin showing off his info-gathering prowess.


    In other words, the young man in front of him was saying this: <em>I have this much info-gathering prowess, and Ive also given you a hint about Miracle. Ill use my skills to find out about the Golden-Horned Dokkaebi for you, so talk things over with the government using your qualifications as the CEO of the yers Association.</em>


    It was fun. He enjoyed himself every time he had a conversation with Kim Hyukjin.


    Very well.


    Oh, right. One more thing. I dont know who drafted this contract, but


    As far as I know, it was drafted by the Office of National Security.


    It didnt matter who it was, as long as Hyukjins intentions reached them.


    We have close ties with Italy and the US as well.


    Right now, Hyukjin was thinking of two people. The US sovereign Michelle, and the Italian info merchant Pietro.


    Giantgod Guild picking up camp and moving elsewhere is one option avable to us.


    Of course, he didnt actually intend on leaving the country. Both his older sister and mother liked Korea. He also hadnt asked the members of Giantgod what they thought, but that was because he didnt really intend on emigrating.


    Song Kiyoung smiled again.


    The higher ups will have a fit when they hear that.


    I trust you will smooth things over to prevent any fits from happening.


    Song Kiyoung didnt agree or refuse. Instead, he said, I have a request.


    Please speak.


    I need a flower that looks like this.


    Hyukjin took a picture from CEO Song, then nodded. I will get it for you in the near future.


    You know what this is?


    I think so, yes.


    Hahaha. Even explorers didnt know. You really know what it is?


    Hyukjin shrugged. One flower delivered to your doorstep will mean far more than a hundred words now.


    Thats true. I look forward to it.


    Song Kiyoung was a little surprised. This young man seemed to be more and more fascinating by the day. It seemed Kim Hyukjin knew the location of a flower even explorers didnt know about. It was possible that Hyukjin was just bluffing to show off his intel-gathering ability, but somehow, CEO Song got the feeling that wasnt the case. Hyukjin seemed to really know it.


    Hes truly fascinating.


    As he watched Kim Hyukjin walk away, Song Kiyoung once again recalled his dead son. If his son was alive, would he have grown to be like Hyukjin?


    No.


    He loved his son, and thought of his son as a true talent. But he was suddenly struck with the thought that even his son wouldnt have been equal to Kim Hyukjin.


    They say heroes are made by the times.


    If Song Kiyoung had to guess, the hero of this irrevocably changed world would probably end up being Kim Hyukjin.


    * * *


    Hyukjin and Sunghyun left the CEOs office. As they waited for the elevator, Sunghyun asked, Are negotiations usually this easy?


    Depends on who does them, I guess. Negotiations are all done by people, after all.


    Will the CEO of the KPA really assist us?


    He will.


    He wasnt certain, but Hyukjin guessed there was a deep rtionship between the government and Sungshin. The government would definitely ept their offer.


    Thank you. I learned a lot today. What are you going to do now, Hyung?


    Me?


    Hyukjin nced behind him. Senia happened to appear right as he did.


    Im going to open the Sky Gate. In a safe ce.


    His party members were mostly good to go. Now, it was time for Hyukjin to advance his own true scenario.


    Im going to the sky.

 Chapter 251

    Chapter 251


    We have arrived, said the drivers voice.


    They were in front of the D-Tower, near the bus station. Hyukjin sat in a daze for a moment, still mired in thoughts of the Sky Gate, then got out upon feeling the door opening next to him.


    Ah.


    He realized hed made a mistake. He overheard a couple nearbythey were talking quietly, but his sharp ears captured every word.


    Whats with that dude?


    Is he rich or something?


    Ive never seen anything like that.


    They even opened the door for him. Even though he looks super young.


    He must have been born into money.


    Hyukjin quickly used Cognitive Dissonance.


    Their reactions made sense. Someone rolling up in a super-luxury ck sedan and having the door opened for them by a chauffeur in a suit wasnt something hed ever seen on the street, either.


    Next time, I should get out in the underground parking lot.


    Even something as minor as this drew attention. He decided to go up by elevator from the underground parking lot next time. He could also open the door on his own. It was just that his mind was so deeply engrossed with thoughts of the Sky Gate today.


    Hyukjin walked into the D-Tower and heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [Enter the Tutorial Building?]</blockquote>


    The D-Tower had long since be the Tutorial Building. As soon as he entered the 1st floor, he saw a lot of yers.


    Ill be going to the 2nd floor.


    The Tutorial Building was a safe zone, the ce where he first crossed paths with the Demon King, and as far as he knew, the first person to open the 2nd floor was the Demon King. In addition, this was the field mentioned by the Sky Feather that was the Clue Regarding the Sky of Freedom. That was why he came here.


    Excuse me. Are you trying to go to the 2nd floor? asked a woman who looked to be in her mid-20s.


    Yes, I am.


    Even if you go up, theres nothing there.


    I am aware.


    Then why are you trying to go up there?


    The womans face seemed somewhat familiar to Hyukjin. Eye of Perception revealed that her name was Kang Somyi.


    Ah, Kang Somyi.


    She was a fairly well-known explorer-ss yer in Korea, one who was always wrapped in bandages to cover the terrible burn scars on her face. That was why he didnt recognize her.


    She hasnt been burned yet.


    He checked her summary.<blockquote>


    Summary: Curious Explorer</blockquote>


    Hyukjin asked back, Do I need to exin my actions to you?


    You sure are prickly. Kang Somyi smiled, not seeming terribly put off. I just talked to you because youre good-looking.


    Thank you.


    Is that all you have to say?


    Yes. Im busy right now.


    Hyukjin went to stand in front of the esctor going to the 2nd floor without engaging further.


    How amusing.


    Meeting Kang Somyi was just a minor event in the grand scheme of things, but


    She managed to see through my Cognitive Dissonance?


    He hadnt dispelled Cognitive Dissonance yet, but Kang Somyi saw that Hyukjin was heading to the esctor and even started talking to him. Moreover, she told him he was good-looking.


    Thats subjective, so whatever.


    He didnt assign much meaning to herpliment. The important thing was that she was able to prate Cognitive Dissonance and discern his appearance.<blockquote>


    [Go up to the 2nd Floor?]</blockquote>


    He went up. Senia followed closely behind.


    Whyd you remove your transparency mode all of a sudden?


    Do you know that female yer?


    No. Its my first time seeing her.


    Really?


    Why?


    Its nothing.


    She disappeared as abruptly as she had appeared. Somehow, she gave Hyukjin the impression of a jealous girlfriend, and he probably wasnt just imagining it.


    It seemed the Arrow-Shooting Cupids influence was still lingering. Still, she probably wouldnt fall victim to the Guardians tricks again after his stern warning. He thought of the issue as one that would be resolved by time.


    A voice sounded in his head.


    (Hmph, she knows my husband is good-looking.)


    Why there was so much brouhaha involved with something as trivial as going to the 2nd floor of the D-Tower, he didnt know.


    (Maybe I should just put my stamp on your forehead.)


    Hyukjin instantly felt cold sweat run down his back. With the partial lifting of Isabels seal and his increased Willpower, their mental connection had grown stronger. Through their bolstered connection, he could see exactly what she meant. An illusion shed through his mind.


    It was a terrifying image of his forehead on fire, and the word husband branded on his forehead. His mind urged him to break the illusion in order to survive.


    Isabel, please dont make me use an incantation on you.


    Isabelughed with merriment. (Uhaha. Well, alright. You being handsome is a good thing for me, too. Seriously, youre too good-looking for your own good.)


    Hyukjin just smiled. This Sword Forest artifact, this mysterious item bearing the same name as the Queen of the Sword Forest, was exactly the picture of a wife in the honeymoon phase.


    After someplications, he reached the 2nd floor. There was nothing there, as expected.


    This is where the hidden shop opened.


    He thought back to that time. Back then, he never thought things would turn out like this, but less than one year had passed. Life was truly unpredictable. Seeing the ce again felt different now.


    Senia. Ill be activating the Sky Gate here.


    Understood. I will soon open my channel and stream ordingly. But before that, theres something I want to say.


    What is it?


    A st of smoke went off with a bang. Darongi was startled from his snooze on Hyukjins shoulder and fell to the floor.


    Tada!


    The voice wasing from a scissor floating in the air.


    Shobidobi.


    It was Shobidobi, the editor who pretty much failed as an Intermediate Administrator but wouldter achieve sess when editors became a thing. He was, in other words, a top-notch editor. He couldnt make something out of nothing, but he <em>could</em> make treasure out of something.


    Ill introduce myself. Im Shobidobi. Im a scissorpen, a minority race, and was an Intermediate Administrator up until a few days ago.


    The scissor moved on its own, making snipping motions in the air with crisp ngs.


    Are you that amazing one and only Kim Hyukjin content Ive heard so much about?


    I dont know about amazing one and only, but Im Kim Hyukjin, yeah.


    Whyre you speaking to me so casually?


    Because you did it first. Are you unhappy about it?


    No, not at all. Shobidobi snipped quickly. It was just fascinating to me to meet a yer who spoke down to me.


    Senia said, Shobidobi told me he wanted to meet yer Kim Hyukjin once before signing a contract with us.


    It was entirely sensible. Of course hed want to see his prospective partners skills before signing a contract.


    Alright.


    I will take that as your consent, yer Kim Hyukjin.


    Okay.


    They didnt just have his consent, but his full support. It would be frustrating to work together if they knew each other in name but not in practice. It was probably the same for Shobidobi. He wouldnt be able to edit Hyukjins content well if he didnt experience Hyukjins ying for himself.


    Because Shobidobi is a genius in editing.


    The structure, direction, and appropriate music would probably ur to him just by seeing Hyukjin in action.


    Shobidobi said, Alrighty, then. What are you gonna do now?


    Open the Sky Gate.


    The Sky Gate? Arge book materialized in front of Shobidobi. Whats the Sky Gate?


    He eagerly flipped through the manual, but after searching for a long time, Shobidobi shook his body. The human equivalent would be something like tilting his head.


    Its not in the manual?


    Looks like it hasnt been updated.


    Huh? It hasnt been updated? Shobidobi quivered. Ah. Ive heard about this before.


    Shobidobi was originally an Intermediate Administrator in the German server.


    Isnt this that legendary Korean Style?


    * * *


    * * *


    In the past, Hyukjin destroyed a Gray-Ringed Clear Crystal in the hidden field of the Gran Seoul Dungeon.<blockquote>


    [Gray-Ringed Clear Crystal]


    A Single-Ringed Crystal that exists only in the hidden field of the Gran Seoul Dungeon. Upon this crystals destruction, the voluntary growth of yers in all servers on the dimension Earth will be limited to 60. yers will only be able to grow past 60 if they destroy a Double-Ringed Crystal.


    *Voluntary growth limit: 60


    *The yer who destroys this Clear Crystal will be given a Clue Regarding the Sky of Freedom.</blockquote>


    He was given a Sky Feather as the Clue Regarding the Sky of Freedom, and that Sky Feather pointed him to where he was now, the 2nd floor of the Gwanghwamun D-Tower.


    This was where he would be opening the Sky Gate. Hyukjin pulled out an item.<blockquote>


    [Canvas of Longing]


    A white canvas filled with longing towards the sky. It once belonged to an angel statue who was betrayed by their brethren and lost their freedom.


    *Can activate the Sky Gate by using the Fountain Pen of Freedom.


    *Cannot be used by a yer.</blockquote>


    He also took out the Fountain Pen of Freedom.<blockquote>


    [Fountain Pen of Freedom]


    A fountain pen that can only be used by the destroyer of the Gray Ring. It can write freedom onto the canvas that longs for freedom.


    *Can activate the Sky Gate by using the Canvas of Longing.</blockquote>


    Since Hyukjin destroyed the Gray Ring, he could use this fountain pen. With the Canvas of Longing and the Fountain Pen of Freedom, he could open the Sky Gate.


    Im going to use the Canvas of Freedom.


    Senia provided the appropriate question. yer Kim Hyukjin is a yer. How does a yer intend on using this item?


    Like this.


    He pulled out another item. Fight fire with fire, and settings with settings. All he had to do was involve a setting that could trump the other.<blockquote>


    [Freedom Elixir]


    The final elixir created by the Towermaster of the 7th Magic Tower, Ragnoa. Upon ingesting Freedom, you can freely erase one System-stipted penalty. Applies to all settings that impose a restriction.</blockquote>


    The entire process was truly convoluted. Opening a single Sky Gate involved the Demon King, the Dewinged Angel Statue, and even the Gran Seoul Dungeons hidden field, plus the field was impossible to activate in the first ce without a special qualification.


    Will you really use Freedom? yer Kim Hyukjin, you could use that to erase your ss penalty.


    If I was going to do that, I would have used it long ago.


    Shobidobi watched the conversation between the two with interest.


    Oho.


    They were pretending to converse, but they were actually feeding information to the Guardians. He decided to focus on them a little more closely.<blockquote>


    [Using the elixir, Freedom.]


    [Erasing the Canvas of Longings penalty using Freedoms settings.]</blockquote>


    The unusable by a yer stiption was erased. As he watched Kim Hyukjin, Shobidobi was struck by inspiration.


    Huh?


    Although video editing was a new concept to Intermediate Administrators, Shobidobi, a born editing genius, had an inkling of what it was. He was starting to get a sense for it.


    He snipped vigorously by himself.


    <em>Snip! Snip! Snip!</em>


    Im getting inspiration!


    <em>Snip! Snip! Snip!</em>


    I think I can create video art!


    <em>Snip! Snip! Snip!</em>


    The contract! Thats right! Miss Senia, lets sign the contract at once! I think Ive found my hidden talent. Thanks to this Korean Style!


    <em>Snip! Snip! Snip!</em>


    Korean Style. Bravo!


    Meanwhile, Hyukjin floated the Canvas of Longing into the air, where it hung unaided. Golden dust fell from the canvas. In his right hand, he held the Fountain Pen of Freedom. Once he wrote the word freedom, every condition would be met.


    Letter by letter, he wrote.<blockquote>


    [Freedom.]</blockquote>


    Freedom was written on the Canvas of Longing, and with it, the entire 2nd floor of the D-Tower began to change.


    The once-empty space expanded.<blockquote>


    [Restructuring the field due to the fulfillment of a special condition.]</blockquote>


    A wide expanse stretched out around him. Hyukjin knew what this ce was based on.


    The Dewinged Angel Statue Gate.<blockquote>


    [Generating the Sky Gate.]</blockquote>


    A massive gate identical to the one that had produced the Four-Winged Angel Statue appeared.


    Im going up.


    Hyukjins body lifted automatically, slowly floating towards the Sky Gate. He wasnt moving his body himself; it was an automatic response to his desire to reach the gate.


    He drew closer to the Sky Gate. From up close, the aura of splendor it gave off was tremendous. It felt huge. The powerful mana current whirlpooling inside the Sky Gate gave him the impression that a little misstep could sweep him into the current and tear him asunder.


    He stopped right in front of the Sky Gate. There was nothing under his feet, but Hyukjin was able to stand firmly upright.


    Im going in.


    He walked through the Sky Gate. With his own two feet.<blockquote>


    [Entering the Sky Gate.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin passed through. The notices continued.<blockquote>


    [Registering the recorded stigma of destroying the Gray-Ringed Crystal.]


    [The Sky Gate allows the Destroyer of the Gray Ring to enter.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin felt an electrifying spark run through his body. It wasnt painful, but he could tell.


    Only the destroyer of the Gray Ring can go through.


    He went through the Sky Gate, and once again, a new field spread out before him.

 Chapter 252

    Chapter 252


    Hyukjin could tell.


    If I wasnt the destroyer of the Gray Ring I wouldnt have been able toe here, and even if I did


    The destructive sensation that had just swept through his body would havepletely demolished him.


    It was truly a good thing that he had chosen the Gray Ring in the Gran Seoul Dungeons hidden field. Looking at the yers current rate of growth, breaching the 40s appeared doable, unlike in the past.


    The countless people who werent able to ovee the level 40 wall


    Now, those yers whose growth had technically been artificially restricted would be able to grow by leaps and bounds, at least until level 60.


    Anyway, lets focus on this ce.<blockquote>


    [A new field, Sea of Clouds, has been opened.]</blockquote>


    Sea of Clouds. Just as the name suggested, it was a sea made of clouds.


    He saw a pure white sea.<blockquote>


    [Entering the Sea of Clouds.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjins body instantly tilted. He immediately recovered his bnce.


    The footing has changed.


    The ground had turned into clouds.


    I need to keep moving.


    If he didnt, he would sink. The clouds felt plushie under his feet. For the time being, he walked to avoid sinking down.


    Its huge.


    The Sea of Clouds was truly enormous. He couldnt even fathom how many metersy between him and the faraway horizon. The same went for the depth. He couldnt see down to the depths of this white ocean.


    Im at a loss, Hyukjin said.


    There didnt appear to be many clues on what to do. All he could see was a sea of clouds. But there had to be a clue somewhere, a trail towards the clear. He intentionally said he was at a loss to get the Guardians to empathize with him.


    There arent any clues I can see with my eyes.


    Waves of clouds came in like in a real ocean. They were even apanied by the sound of rushing water.


    He continued to walk. If his exploration of the surrounding area turned up empty, he would have to explore the Sea of Clouds depths.


    The keywords given to me are


    Freedom.


    Sky.


    Endless Sky.


    These three. And if he were to add one more


    The Demon Kings arrangements.


    He had to proceed with these four factors in mind. After walking for some time, he saw something far above him. It was odd calling it a sky seeing as this was an ocean made of clouds, but in any case, there was something flying around in the sky.


    Extremely high up.


    Something kept flying up there. He couldnt see it clearly.


    The fact that theres a sea and its flying around means theres a high chance it has somece it can rest.


    In other words, there was probably a shore somewhere. Of course, there were also fields out there that didnt prescribe to such expectations, but this was a special field involving countless arrangements and settings. There was a good chance it had something of the sort lined up.


    If there are birds in the sky there must be fish in the sea.


    Just then, Eye of Perception captured something. Something huge, and fast. He felt it some distance underneath, far beneath the surface.


    Its getting closer.


    He didnt detect murderous intent or hostility from it, but its presence was simply too huge. So huge, in fact, that it made Hyukjin back away.


    Here ites.


    That thing, whatever it was, surged up some distance ahead of him.


    <em>Sploshhh!</em>


    It breached the surface, appearing in a spray of clouds.


    A whale?


    The enormous whale-like creature sprang out of the clouds, its unique coloring strikingly obvious.


    A white whale.


    It was a pure white whale of tremendous proportions. A great spout of clouds emerged from its blowhole instead of water.


    But just then, the thing flying around in the sky began to approach at a rapid speed.


    Whats going on?


    Just how high up had it been? What had originally appeared as small as a sparrow became incrediblyrge as it approached.


    Thats


    It was a monster he knew.


    A wyvern.


    The flying creature was a wyvern, a monster ssified as a subspecies of the ultimate species that existed only in the settings, dragons. It also went by the name of flying lizard.


    There were many different variants of wyverns, and of them, this one was a Steel Wyvern, the most violent of them all. Not the strongest, but the most violent. That was how ferocious they were.


    Though well, whether it''s ferocious or not isnt the issue with a wyvern.


    A wyvern wasnt something that should appear in the beginner period. It didnt matter whether the monsters that showed up after the beginner period were aggressive or docile. Most of them were hostile monsters, and they either nursed intense enmity towards humans or considered humans prey.


    But the fact that it earned its violent reputation in spite of that


    Was due to its extreme gluttony. The Steel Wyvern was a major glutton that scrambled to gobble down everything it could see. In the Great Explorer Jacksons notes, there was a passage like this:


    <em>If there is a field that should certainly have a lot of monsters but doesnt, and if there is a gorge in the area, then we must consider the possibility of a Steel Wyverns existence.</em>


    <em>Kiiiiiiiiiii!</em>


    The Steel Wyvern plummeted down, this flying lizard with scales of a color somewhere between blue and ck tearing into the white whales body.


    The white whale thrashed in pain, producing massive sprays of clouds dyed bright red. There was no blood, but the red clouds gave off the impression of blood.


    That moment, Hyukjin received a quest.<blockquote>


    [The quest Save the White Whale from Danger! has been generated.]</blockquote>


    <em>Kiiiiiiiii!</em>


    Like sharks drawn to the smell of blood, countless Steel Wyverns began descending from the sky in their direction.


    Save the white whale?


    There was no way he could defeat that many Steel Wyverns at his current level. He would be the one ripped to shreds.


    Hunting them is impossible.


    So ultimately, he just had to focus on saving the white whale.


    Before they get any closer.


    Every second counted. They were descending too quickly.<blockquote>


    [Using the special skill sh Step.]</blockquote>


    He approached in a sh. The Steel Wyvern was currently clutching the massive whale with its sharp ws, which were lodged in the whales skin like hooks. The wyvern beat its wings skyward, but it seemed incapable of oveing the whales strength and weight.


    The whale was trying to escape into the sea of clouds


    And the wyvern was trying to fish it up out of the sea.


    Hyukjin immediately decided what he needed to do.<blockquote>


    [Using the innate ability Sword of Insight.]</blockquote>


    He swung Isabel. Through his battle against the ck Pearl Centipede, he won the Divine Sword Physique. Hunting down a wyvern on the spot might be a challenge, but he could certainly remove the whale from the wyverns grasp.


    <em>Kieeeeek!</em>


    The wyvern shrieked in pain.<blockquote>


    [You have earned the Steel Wyverns wrath.]</blockquote>


    That instant, Hyukjin instinctively felt danger, as potent and all-epassing as the feeling hed gotten while fleeing from the Magic Troll in the Tutorial Dungeon. A chill ran down his spine.


    The wyvern ising for me.


    There was no ce to escape in sight, just like how there had been nowhere to escape from the Magic Trolls fist. The special ability with the power of sixth sense, Eye of Perception, red a warning.


    There was no decent ce to flee. The wyvern was too fast.


    In the end, there was only one ce to run.


    The wyverns beak drew near, the same sharp and sturdy beak that had punctured this huge whales body.


    The only ce is down.


    He could see no ce to flee aboveground. Nowhere, not a single ce, would offer him a path of survival. No matter where he fled, he could not escape the wyverns attack. In the end, the only ce he could go to dodge the wyverns beak was into the sea, down in the Sea of Clouds.


    Hyukjin immediately dove.


    * * *


    * * *


    Ngh.


    Sharp ws raked his back.


    Im suffocating.


    The Sea of Clouds was truly like a real ocean. He had never swum in the deep sea, but if he had, it would probably feel something like this. Though it looked like a white ocean from the outside, it was terribly dark from the inside. It was as if he was plunged into outer space, where not a single ray of light could be perceived.


    He heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [The quest Save the White Whale from Danger! has been cleared.]</blockquote>


    He cleared it, but was given no rewards. It became increasingly difficult to breathe. The pressure in his lungs was even worse than holding his breath in the water.


    There must be wyverns outside.


    If he surfaced, he would surely be wyvern fodder. Just then, he heard a voice.


    Thank you.


    A woman appeared before him, a woman with tinum hair that only existed in fantasy novels. Her body was draped with what looked like clothing made of scales, but that clothing was actually her body itself. A splotch of red stained her side like a bloody wound.


    I am a descendant of the whalekin, Natalie. Its hard for you to breathe, isnt it?


    The woman who introduced herself as Natalie extended a pill to him. The pill was called Freedom. It bore the same name as the elixir Freedom, but had a different effect.


    <em>Gulp.</em>


    He swallowed Freedom, and it became easier to breathe.


    That is a pill we whalekin made to wee our visitors or saviors. Inside is a whales breath. You should be able to breathefortably here in the Sea of Clouds.


    Are you that whale from just now? Hyukjin asked.


    Yes, thats right. You saved me from nearly getting eaten by the skybirds.


    By skybird, she was probably referring to Steel Wyverns.


    Why did you leave the Sea of Clouds and breach the surface?


    Because we need to breathe as well.


    Hyukjin felt Eye of Perception tingle. He couldnt read her at all with Eye of Perception. Not even the wyvern had given him this feeling.


    Shes far stronger than a wyvern.


    It didnt seem to be that way just because they were in the Sea of Clouds. This woman possessed strength so great that the current Kim Hyukjin could not even begin to fathom how strong.


    Shes way, way stronger than me.


    So why was she losing to the wyvern? Even outside the Sea of Clouds, even if she was vulnerable on the surface, this woman should have been able to make quick work of the wyvern.


    I get it.


    He was starting to get his bearings. Because there was one keyword at the core of everything here.


    Hyukjin asked, Could it be that the whalekin are a race not given the freedom to attack?


    ...You figured it out immediately. Or did you already know about us whalekin?


    No. Its the first time Ive ever heard about your existence.


    And that they werent in the sea, but in this Sea of Clouds.


    Though we are endowed with great strength, we cannot use it. That is the sanction we bore when abandoning our homnd.


    The scenario was unfolding with every new morsel of background information. Hyukjin felt his mood soar. Right now, the backdrop to this secret scenario the Guardians would go nuts for was taking shape.


    Why did you end up leaving your homnd?


    Because we loved peace.


    They loved peace, but they left their homnd?


    In the time of our elders, waterdrakes began to settle in our homnd. We didnt want to fight the waterdrakes. Whalekin are a peace-loving race.


    Whalekin. Waterdrakes. And Steel Wyverns.


    The scenario that would take ce in this Sea of Clouds probably had to do with these three races, all under the huge umbre that was Freedom.


    He needed a little more info.


    Where was your homnd?


    The answer he received waspletely unexpected.


    Our homnd is up there. Natalie pointed up with her finger, towards the faraway sky dotted with wheeling Steel Wyverns. The Endless Sky is our homnd.

 Chapter 253

    Chapter 253


    Hyukjin flinched.


    The Endless Sky?


    Yes. Do you know it?


    Natalie tilted her head slightly to the left. Her mystical silver hair cascaded like water.


    Could you tell me a little about the Endless Sky?


    Why?


    Im a bit curious.


    There was no need to tell her that the Demon King said he would be waiting there, and he didnt need to exin the nitty gritty of his circumstances.


    You said the reason a race as strong as you guys left the Endless Sky is because youre a peace-loving race. A human like me cant understand it at all.


    Natalie nced warily around. Her silver hair sparkled, bringing light to the dark ocean depths. There was nothing nearby.


    Her way of speech changed a little.


    Thats what <em>Im </em>saying. I cant understand it, either. Its so darn frustrating.


    Her previously stately expression morphed into a mischievous scowl.


    Shes young.


    It was as if she were done acting, and this was her true self. Hyukjin didnt know what kind of race the whalekin were, but he got the feeling that Natalie was a child.


    This is something the adults of our race decided. Its frustrating as all hell. We cant even use our strength because of the stupid vow they made, and now, even going up to breathe is scary because of the fruit flies up there. Tch, it makes me mad.


    As sheined, Hyukjin felt intense mana in her voice. She wasnt trying to discharge mana; it was simply infused in her voice.


    Seriously?


    It was his first time experiencing a force this immense, but simultaneously unaggressive.


    I think shes stronger than a Fire Giant.


    At least a Fire Giant had strength he could see. The power it possessed was violent and aggressive, the kind of power that wanted to crush everything it could see.


    But this girls power was something else entirely. It gave off the same feeling as the darkness pervading the depths of the Sea of Clouds. It was something fathomless, something heavy and impossibly deep.


    If Im right, shes just a young whalekin yet shes this strong?


    Then how strong were the fully-grown adults? He couldnt even imagine.


    And how strong are the waterdrakes that took over the Endless Sky?


    His head was a mess of thoughts. Hyukjin decided to figure out one thing at a time.


    What do you mean by not being able to use your strength because of a vow?


    Our adults are weak cowards.


    ...


    The adults are strong, but they didnt fight. They couldve sent those pathetic waterdrakes packing with a few good whacks.


    Waterdrakes came to the Endless Sky. The whalekin didnt want to fight them, so they made a vow and fled. That was Hyukjins understanding of the situation.


    Did they make the vow with the waterdrakes?


    Those jerks dont have the authority to make vows with anyone. Natalie covered her mouth andughed. Hoho. This oppa doesnt know about the waterdrakes, does he?


    ...


    Her character now was worlds apart from how she was at first. Somehow, Hyukjin didnt really like hearing oppa from her. The girl in front of him didnt feel at all like a younger sibling. It was true she had a mystical appearance and was a whalekin child, but it was like a warrior bulging with muscles was calling him oppa.


    Our adults made a vow between each other. A promise to leave the Endless Sky, and to love peace. That is why we cannot kill.


    Hyukjin got the gist of what the whalekin girl Natalie was saying. He also realized what Natalie wanted to hear.


    I just need to scratch her itch a bit.


    So he said this:


    By human standards, thats not loving peace, but cowardice.


    Right?


    Natalies face was bright with vigor. Her swaying silver hair glittered more radiantly.


    Its my first time meeting someone who thinks the same as me. She tucked back her silver hair. Nice to meet you. Im Natalie.


    She extended a hand, and Hyukjin took it. They both shook.


    I think of peace as something you can only protect when you have strength, he said.


    The whalekin are strong.


    Strength you cant use isnt strength. If I were to pull out a knife right now and try to harm you, would you be able to protect yourself?


    Hyukjin looked Natalie directly in the eyes, and she met his gaze. The one who averted her eyes first was Natalie.


    I could run away.


    No. She couldnt. He had already confirmed that earlier. A race as strong as yours should be able to make Steel Wyverns submit with no problem. And yet, you were deeply wounded by a Steel Wyvern, and werent even able to escape.


    Thats


    He could tell even without analyzing the situation with Observers Eye. The answer was clear when he matched all the puzzle pieces together.


    Your people once possessed great strength, and there was no <em>need </em>to run. At least in the Endless Sky. But your people actually arent capable of fleeing.


    They were strong, but they werent fast. That was okay, since they had no natural enemies. They only ever needed to move with unconcerned, ponderous grace.


    ...


    Thats why if I were to attack you, you wouldnt be able to escape from me, Natalie.


    Natalie had nothing to say. That was because Hyukjin was exactly right.


    In addition, the vow your elders made became chains that bind you. Otherwise, theres no way you would have been injured by the likes of a Steel Wyvern. Hyukjin pinpointed the exact reason Natalie was injured by a Steel Wyvern. Because if you were to take an attack from them in your original form, they would be injured.


    It was simple. If you threw an egg at a boulder, the egg would crack. The boulder would just get a little dirty. The boulder in this analogy was the whalekin, and the egg, the wyverns.


    Your vow, the vow to not do harm to others, is restricting your abilities to the greatest degree.


    The whalekin undertook damage to themselves to prevent the egg from cracking.


    How can there be a race with such an utterly stupid setting?


    Natalie blinked.


    Youre a human, right?


    Yes.


    I thought you had a true name.


    I dont have a true name. Actually, I dont even know what that is.


    Huh? You dont know what a true name is? Natalie looked left and right a few times before opening her mouth. A true name is --- --- ----.


    He couldnt hear it. The System had interfered. True names were something he had heard of very early onSenia had asked him if he had a true name. Hyukjin believed this was a mystery that would be resolved in due time.


    When I looked you in the eyes earlier, I averted my gaze.


    You did.


    Thats because Im a whalekin. And also because its not polite to stare directly at someone for too long.


    Once again, Natalie stared piercingly into Hyukjins eyes.


    But its mostly because I felt darkness and stigmata from you.


    ...


    He couldnt understand exactly what she meant. Why were darkness and stigmata being brought up out of nowhere? But he needed to change the topicHyukjin couldnt direct the conversation if it veered off into things he didnt know, and he had to author the scenario, leading it into a story the Guardians would love.


    It looks to me that you guys made a vow to yourselves in order to leave the Endless Sky.


    Thats right. Im told that in order to leave our home, in order to break the setting of our race that says we must live in the Endless Sky, we needed to make a vow.


    The whalekin werent supposed to leave the Endless Sky. But when the waterdrakes appeared, the whalekin left the Endless Sky to escape them. And in order to do so, they required another setting, a vow.


    * * *


    * * *


    Dont you want to return to the Endless Sky?


    Of course I do.


    Why?


    Because Im hungry right now.


    Youre hungry?


    The adults apparently didnt know because theyd never left the Endless Sky before. Turns out that ce is full of mana.


    Do you subsist on mana?


    It was his first time hearing of a lifeform that consumed mana to survive. It was a more fascinating concept than living off morning dew.


    It was Natalie who seemed surprised. Yes. What else would you eat, other than mana?


    ...


    He didnt show it, but even the unppable Kim Hyukjin was astonished. What else would you eat? The whole origin and concept of her species was totally different.


    You cant eat mana here?


    Theres not much mana worth eating here. Im so hungry I could die.


    How long has it been since youve had mana to eat?


    Mm. Hard to say since I havent kept count. Maybe, oh, 200 years? Ah. Im so hungry. The mana of the Endless Sky I ate a long time ago was so tasty.


    Hyukjin was a little more shocked. He thought back to what Natalie said earlier.


    <em>This oppa doesnt know about the waterdrakes, does he?</em>


    A whale that had lived for over 200 yearsthe exact number, she couldnt remembercalled him oppa. Hyukjin was able to put a finger on the strange feeling hed gotten earlier. It was like a wrinkly great-great grandmother calling him oppa. There was no way it <em>wouldnt </em>feel odd.


    But what she calls me isnt important.


    Awkward was awkward, and business was business. He was a content creator whose only job was to advance and direct the scenario well.


    If there was a way to break the vow, would you return to the Endless Sky?


    Of course!


    Settings had to be broken with settings. He got a hold on a small lead.


    Is there any way I could meet the adults of your people?


    Whalekin always whale guests.


    They sure were a carefree race. Even reduced to such a sorry state, this race that had no choice but to ept damage to themselves for fear of breaking the egg were still weing guests like idiots.


    If I had bad intentions


    He could hunt this mighty race with ease. If he thought of them as monsters, that is. But it didnt seem like that possibility even urred to them. They were simply gracefully aloof creatures, and thats why they were eking out a dangerous and precarious life.


    Id bet they dont even think about why it would be dangerous to invite guests amongst their midst.


    Their way of thinking waspletely different from humans to begin with.


    Lets go.


    Natalie took his hand. His feet lifted and slowly drifted with the weightlessness of being in outer space.


    Ah! Natalie let go. What was that?


    Hyukjin breathed an unconscious sigh. He knew exactly why Natalie suddenly let go of him.


    (Whats this brat doing, touching a married mans hand without permission?)


    <em>Nows not the time for this, Isabel.</em>


    (You dont <em>have </em>to be holding hands to get around.)


    As she said that, Hyukjin was amazed by himself. In the past, when Isabel was acting out with ridiculous jealousy like this, he felt a bit annoyed. He had to hide his annoyance and go through the tiresome motions of coaxing her.


    Why dont I feel irritated?


    He didnt feel annoyed. In fact, he felt a bit happy. Isabels jealousy wasnt all that unpleasant anymore.


    This is crazy.


    Anyway, work was work.


    <em>Please dont interfere, Isabel. It takes a lot of energy for me to move around here. Its better if Natalie tows me along.</em>


    (I know, but still) Isabel groused, but soon relented. (Okay. It cant be helped. Work is work.)


    From that, Hyukjin realized something else.


    Natalie might just be a whalekin child but I definitely felt unprecedented strength from her.


    Isabel made a creature of such power yelp and back off. Just how strong was Isabel, really? He truly couldnt wait until the day she waspletely unsealed, the day when she could appear with her full, true self.


    (Husband. You were thinking about me just now, right?)


    He didnt respond. Isabelughed happily.


    (Hehe, makes sense. Im kinda super pretty, arent I? Hohohoho!)


    And with that, Isabel was happy again.


    I think you can hold my hand again.


    That surprised me. It felt like something sharp was swallowing me up.


    I apologize. Such a thing exists in the abyss that is us humans.


    Natalie nodded.


    I think Ive heard about it before. They called it the darkness dragon. Natalie took Hyukjins hand again. Rx your body. Im going to start swimming.


    She resumed her slow kicking, and after some time, Hyukjin was able to see many sleeping people.


    Everyone was silver-haired. Dozens of people shining faintly silver were floating around in the Sea of Clouds. It was a fascinating sight.


    He heard a notice.


    [The quest Homing of the Whalekin has been generated.]


    The quest window popped up.

 Chapter 254

    Chapter 254<blockquote>


    [The quest Homing of the Whalekin has been generated.]</blockquote><blockquote>


    [Homing of the Whalekin]


    The homnd where the whalekin once lived was the Endless Sky. That was their refuge and paradise. When they gave up their homnd to the waterdrakes, the whalekin fled to the Sea of Clouds, driven by their love of peace. After many years, the whalekin realized they made the wrong choice. But they cannot return to their homnd. In order to leave the Endless Sky, they imposed the sanction of a vow upon themselves. Help the whalekin return home.


    Clear rewards:<ol><li>


    Blessing of the Whalekin</li><li>


    Whalekin Sinew</li><li>


    ?</li></ol></blockquote>


    The information he already knew was recapitted in the quest description.


    Something huge is getting closer.


    Hyukjin felt something huge. In fact, the silver-haired man approaching them wasnt huge in stature, but Hyukjin felt as if he were facing a tranquil and massive mountain.


    Are you a guest of Natalies? Greetings. I am the leader of the whalekin, Naphthan.


    Natalie piped up. He protected me from the skybirds!


    From the skybirds? The mans brows furrowed a little. He sighed. Our mistake has endangered you.


    It wasnt just Natalie who was in danger. The whalekin needed to leave the Sea of Clouds periodically to breathe, and that was the chance the wicked skybirdsSteel Wyvernsseized to attack and hunt the gentle giants.


    I dont resent you, Dad.


    Natalie shed a sunny smile, which bewildered Hyukjin to see.


    Shes like a different person again.


    Natalie seemed to be an individual of many faces. In front of this man she called Dad, she had the personalitywhale-ality?of an incredibly kind and warm young girl.


    As expected, I cant use Eye of Perception.


    Naphthan wasnt someone Eye of Perception could read. What Hyukjin felt was immense power, like he was gazing into the endless cosmos. And despite that, despite all that power, these foolish people bound themselves into utter helplessness.


    That the whalekin are living in the Sea of Clouds Hyukjin paused, considering what the Guardians would like to hear most. Is, in my opinion, unjust. I felt awful for your people after hearing of your circumstances from Natalie.


    500 years ago, we thought this was the best choice.


    After 500 years, the whalekin thought differently about their decision.


    But our choice was wrong.


    Having lived in the Endless Sky in blessed ignorance, they thought other ces would be like the Endless Sky. But that wasnt the case. ces that werent the Endless Sky were perilous for the whalekin.


    Its not that the choice the whalekin made is wrong. The waterdrakes who stole your home are in the wrong.


    They, too, were in need of a ce to call home.


    Hyukjin decided not to strain his brain trying toprehend how the whalekin thought. It was futile. There was no way a human and whale could think the same way or have the same opinions. He just had to think of it as, Oh, thats how they see it, and move on.


    My job isnt to change their minds.


    What he had to do was enter the Endless Sky with them.


    They rejected coexistence. Was the Endless Sky such a small ce?


    The Endless Sky is limitless.


    Then the waterdrakes wanted to chase the whalekin out of the Endless Sky.


    Indeed.


    And in the end, the peace-loving whalekin left the Endless Sky.


    Their minds might work in very different ways, but one thing was clear. This silver-haired man deeply cherished Natalie. He loved her. That could be seen in his eyes. It seemed love for ones child was an absolutew that took precedence over the boundaries of race.


    Natalie almost died today.


    ...


    Hyukjin calmly led the conversation in a way the whalekin could follow.


    Im not saying the waterdrakes are bad.


    In his point of view, they were bad. Basically, they were the invaders who chased out the whalekin living happily and bothering no one. The whalekin were too kind, and that kindness was their downfall.


    But the situation today where Natalie nearly died was too dangerous. That <em>situation </em>was bad.


    I agree that the situation was bad.


    The Steel Wyverns you call skybirds are quite an intelligent species of monster.


    I know. Their means of attacking us have be more refined and borate.


    The Steel Wyverns were sure to have developed their hunting methods little by little over 500 years.


    Before long, the whalekin may bepletely wiped out by the skybirds.


    Even that might not be all that important to the whalekin. That was why Hyukjin dragged Natalie to the forefront.


    Natalie misses the Endless Sky. If all the whalekin are wiped out, Natalie will be forever unable to set foot in your homnd.


    ...


    Tears whaled in Naphthans eyes. He gazed at Natalie. Thats true. Natalie must resent us.


    Being hungry is the saddest thing in the world, Hyukjin said. Dont you want to return to the Endless Sky?


    I do. But the waterdrakes are there.


    Hyukjin shook his head. Its too early to think about the waterdrakes.


    What do we think about, then?


    Whats the first thing you need to do in order to reach the Endless Sky?


    They had to leave the Sea of Clouds.


    We need to swim. Towards the sky.


    It was just as he thought. The Endless Sky was up there.


    Naphthan nodded. The skybirds are a problem.


    Exactly. The whalekin may possess great strength, but they are incapable of using it. You are a race tightly bound by such a setting.


    Indeed.


    The waterdrakes were a problem forter. The first thing they needed to handle wasnt them, but the wyverns.


    * * *


    * * *


    I ask you now. Was it right that you were expelled from your homnd?


    It wasnt.


    When you look back, was that just?


    It wasnt.


    Was it fair?


    It wasnt.


    The waterdrakes were the only ones rejoicing. What they wanted was monopoly, not coexistence. The current situation was far removed from terms like justice, fairness, and coexistence.


    In that case, I think I can help you.


    You, a human, can help us?


    Natalies father wasnt scorning humans. He was simply stating that they were of different races.


    I think so, yes.


    How can you help us?


    Hyukjin grinned. This was the moment he had been leading up to.


    I have a racial trait that allows me to deem the following as just: regtions orws created by the majority ord of societys members, actions tacitly and universally deemed good, or the Systems rules.


    It wasnt actually a racial trait, but a power that came from an item in his possession.<blockquote>


    [Judgment of the Law]


    Regtionsws created by the ord of societys majority, actions tacitly and universally deemed good, or the Systems rules, will be temporarily set as Just. The caster will be given the rights of an Arbitrator towards all acts that defy justice. The Arbitrator officially files objections to all acts that contradict justice, can mete out due punishment within set bounds to those who contradict justice, and will be conferred the requisite power and authority.</blockquote>


    Its my first time hearing that humans have such a racial trait.


    Im a bit of a special case. In any case, Ive judged that helping the whalekin return to their homnd is an action tacitly and universally deemed good.


    His words were specially crafted for the Lady of the Scales. With her disposition, the Lady of the Scales would want to aid the whalekin. From her point of view, the whalekin were a pitiful people who were robbed of their homes and forced into destitution.


    I think I can lift the restriction forcefully binding your powers.


    That would be tricky. It will be hard for a human to break the vow we made.


    Once again, Naphthan wasnt looking down on humans. He was just stating the facts, as simple as saying, You weigh 90 kg, and I weigh 70 kg. To a whalekin, it was simply an objective statement free of emotion.


    Natalie interjected. Thats right. I hateI mean, Im upset about the vow, but theres no human who can break it.


    ...


    Was that really the case?


    Theres nothing to lose from trying, is there?


    Thats true, but I just fear the power of our vow might harm you.


    That is for me to handle.


    He had to go to the Endless Sky. And for that, he needed the whalekins help.


    Why is it that you would go to such lengths for us?


    To go to the Endless Sky.


    Because it angers me.


    Angers you?


    Humans are a diverse race. Many humans would be angry to see the situation you are in. I want to help you.


    Difficult reasoning for us to understand, said Naphthan. But I can see your sincerity. I see you sincerely want to help us, a sentiment were very grateful for.


    He heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [Revealing the hidden clear reward.]</blockquote><blockquote>


    Clear rewards:<ol><li>


    Blessing of the Whalekin</li><li>


    Whalekin Sinew</li><li>


    Contract of the Whalekin</li></ol></blockquote>


    Naphthan spoke again. If we manage to reach the Endless Sky, I will allow the marriage of my daughter to you.


    ...


    Hyukjin was struck speechless. He had led the conversation up to this point, but this new development had him gasping to keep up.


    The contract thats the third reward is referring to <em>marriage</em>?


    Natalieughed like she wasnt terribly bothered.


    I never even thought about getting married to a human.


    <em>I havent thought about getting married to a whale!</em> Hyukjin wanted to scream, but he resisted the urge. Right now, he was a producer. A content creator. And he had to resolve the situation like one.


    Thank you for the offer, but I respectfully decline.


    Decline?


    The mild expression on this man who didnt look as if he would hurt a fly abruptly shifted. Hyukjin was struck with the image of a tsunami roaring towards him, threatening to crush him.


    It suddenly became hard to breathe.


    Hes exuding some incredible power.


    Hyukjin had no idea why Naphthan was so mad all of a sudden. As expected, whalekin were impossible to understand.


    Why are you declining to marry my daughter?


    Natalie looked upset, too. Apparently, declining a marriage offer was an awfully unpleasant deed for whalekin. They hadnt expressed such displeasure or hostility even towards the waterdrakes who stole their home.


    They cannot harm me anyway.


    That was their vow. The foreboding aura they were giving off was terrible, but there was no need to be afraid, just like there was no reason to fear a hawk inside a cage.


    If I do this whale I should be able to pull some good quality footage.


    It urred to him that he might be able to produce a development the Guardians would enjoy. It was good. It was good content.


    Just as he was thinking that, someone else made an appearance.


    Big children, hes my husband.


    It was Isabel, awake from her slumber. But this time, she looked a little strange.

 Chapter 255

    Chapter 255


    Last time, he only saw her neck and face, and even that had left a strong impression on him. Her amber eyes and golden hair were exactly the same as before, but this time, the rest of her body was visible.


    A white robe?


    She was wearing a robe almost like the ones worn by magicians.


    And


    When he saw Isabelst time, he saw the powerful mana storm enveloping her body. Now, that storm was encapsted in a single form.


    Isnt that a staff?


    In her hands was a winged magic staff the same color as her hair.


    And


    Between the wings was a purplish jewel. It wasnt an actual jewel, but a mana in the form of a jewel.


    The mana it''s giving off is insane.


    By all appearances, Isabel looked like a light-attribute magician. She looked far too mage-like for someone who imed to be a sword.


    Huh?


    This energy is?


    What?


    One by one, the white lights that had been floating around began approaching, roused from their slumber.


    Hey, Naphthan. Whats going on?


    They had shown zero interest before and had continued to sleep, but as soon as Isabel appeared, they suddenly woke up and took an interest in what was happening.


    Isabel clucked her tongue.


    You guys have starved for a long time, havent you? Thats why you were just sleeping the whole time.


    Hyukjin could feel the power imbued in Isabels voice. Her presence was far more powerful than when she was a sword. She bore the transcendent title even in sword form, but now, he had the feeling she was somewhere <em>above </em>transcendent.


    How?


    Hyukjin hadnt grown.


    I think I get it.


    This ce, the environment they were in, made this possible. The Sea of Clouds seemed to have a far greater density of manapared to regr fields.


    Thats why Isabel appears a little moreplete than before.


    Now he knew: Isabels growth wasnt purely tied to his growth, but also to environmental factors. It was an excellent piece of information for Kim Hyukjin.


    Natalies father, Naphthan, responded.


    That is correct, noble sword folk. We have starved for a long time.


    I thought so. The mana here cant fill your starved stomachs.


    Hearing that, Hyukjin had another realization. This ce had mana dense enough for Isabel to appear in a moreplete form, but it was nothingpared to the Endless Sky. Just how much mana was up there, and what would happen if he went there? Wouldnt Isabel be able to appear fully?


    I think her outer appearance isplete.


    In Hyukjins eyes, the only word he could use to describe her was beautiful. He coulde up with no other word. Some people might say Senia was prettier, but not Hyukjin.


    But if I may ask, noble swordfolk. Are you truly a swordfolk?


    ...


    Isabel flinched. What do you mean by that?


    The aura Im feeling is indeed from a powerful swordfolk, but Naphthan trailed off.


    Hyukjin was curious, too. It was his first time hearing the term swordfolk, but Hyukjin was confused as to why that swordfolk looked like a magician.


    I am a swordfolk. My true name is Isabel.


    ...


    Naphthan chewed on the name Isabel for a long time.


    Isabel Isabel Isabel. And then, his eyes widened. Surely not. --- --- ----!


    System interference kicked in again. It was information Hyukjin wasnt allowed to know, which frustrated him to no end. Even though it was about Isabel, he couldnt hear it.


    Thats right. Thats me.


    It is an honor, oh noble swordfolk.


    That made Hyukjin realize that the leader of the whalekin, Naphthan, had been naturally speaking down to him, and Hyukjin hadnt taken offense to it.


    It just felt natural.


    It had felt all too natural. It could very well be that Hyukjin had cowered before Naphthans immense power without even realizing it.


    But Naphthan is being extremely polite to Isabel.


    Whalekin.


    Swordfolk.


    What kind of rtionship did the two have?


    Isabel is my contractee, and my bride.


    He did bear the title of swords bride. And it was true that to him, Isabel was incredibly beautiful. But that had nothing to do with ying.


    The scenario must be led by me, not Isabel.


    For the Guardians watching above, the one creating the content had to be him. Because the protagonist of this scenario wasnt them, but him. Back when it felt natural, he didnt realize it. Since he didnt realize it, it couldnt be helped. But now that he knew, he just needed to confidently take charge.


    Hyukjin cut in with a cough, speaking confidently in the informal.


    The swordfolk Isabel has a Swords Pact with me.


    I see sir. Please excuse my offense, I was unaware.


    Now, their positions were switchedNaphthan was speaking formally, and Hyukjin informally. To the Guardians, it would look like Hyukjin had the initiative.


    Thats why Ill help you guys go up to the Endless Sky.


    With the power you mentioned earlier, correct?


    Yeah.


    Understood. You are the pactee of Lady --- -- herself. We will do our best to do as you suggested. What is it that our people must do?


    Hyukjin smiled. As she streamed, Senias wings trembled.


    That smile.


    Every time she saw that smile, the hapless target was fleeced for all they were worth. That went for Song Junghye, Michelle, and Song Kiyeol.


    But my heart feels a little strange.


    Normally, seeing that smile made her happy. After all, it was a surefire precursor to a great deal of profit for Kim Hyukjin. But today, ever since Isabel showed up, she was having trouble getting fired up. Senia shook her head to clear her thoughts and consoled herself.


    As a business partner, I need to focus on my job.


    Strangely, her gaze kept moving to Isabel.


    Completely unaware of Senias feelings, Hyukjin continued. Before that, theres something I need to be sure of. Leader of the whalekin, Naphthan. You proposed a marriage contract between me and your daughter.


    Earlier, this topic nearly aroused the anger of someone who looked as mild as milk and showed no anger towards the waterdrakes who robbed his homnd and the skybirds who almost killed his daughter. That was just how important this matter was.


    That was essentially a show of the greatest sincerity you can offer. Correct?


    Of course.


    A whalekins contract must be the best thing they could give.


    Youll need to promise me something else of equivalent value, then.


    ...


    As you can see, I am in a Swords Pact. My bride can be only one person, Isabel.


    At those words, Senias wings quivered, and Isabels face reddened a little.


    I am aware that in a Swords Pact, each pactee bes the others bride, but if my memory serves, it is not a contract that requires monogamy, Naphthan replied.


    Simply put, there could be multiple brides, whether they were male or female.


    I wish to contract with only one person, Isabel.


    Since the Sword Pactee says so I understand. We will do our utmost to show our sincerity. When we return to our homnd, I will give you our treasure.


    A notice rang at the same time.<blockquote>


    [The Leader of the Whalekin influences the quest rewards.]


    [The quest rewards have changed.]</blockquote><blockquote>


    Clear rewards:<ol><li>


    Blessing of the Whalekin</li><li>


    Whalekin Sinew</li><li>


    Treasure of the Whalekin</li></ol></blockquote>


    Contract of the Whalekin was changed to Treasure of the Whalekin.


    I did it.


    Hyukjin guessed it was something incredible. Just going to the Endless Sky would him three rewards. He was also sure there was a reason why he would get three rewards simply by reaching the ce.


    One more thing.


    He couldnt exclude the possibility he might meet the Demon King in the Endless Sky.


    If something dangerous happens to me there, protect me.


    Husband. Nothing of the sort will happen in the Endless Sky. Isabel stood right by Hyukjins side. You may still be weak, but in the Endless Sky, I will be far stronger than I am now.


    ...Really?


    I will be the one to protect my husband.


    ...


    Youre too weak, so I have no choice.


    Those words sounded so very reliable. Hyukjin thought he had grown a lot, but he still had a long way to go. He wasnt sure if he should be happy or dismayed.


    What Lady Isabel says is true, but we will provide our assistance nevertheless, said Naphthan.


    With that, he had a promise from the whalekin.


    In that case, I will help you guys.


    He had to tinker with the settings using Judgment of the Law.<blockquote>


    [Use Judgment of the Law?]</blockquote>


    * * *


    * * *


    In the end, Judgment of the Law only served half of its intended purpose. It could not change the settings entirely. Even though he acquired the Arbitrator role, it was only half effective.


    I think we will be able to defend ourselves against those who attack us or our friends, said Naphthan.


    The whalekin couldnt initiate an attack, nor could they counterattack. They could only defend. That was all Hyukjins Judgment of the Law could do.


    What will happen if the skybirds attack you?


    Naphthans face darkened a little. The moment they touch us, they will die.


    Like an egg sttering against a rock. Thanks to the vow of the whalekin being weakened, that analogy would reallye to life.


    Hyukjin said, Even so, it must be done if you are to return to the Endless Sky.


    Indeed.


    The other whalekin expressed their affirmation as well.


    Thats right.


    Were too hungry.


    I want to go back home.


    Well thought, Naphthan.


    Husband, called Isabel. Its a good idea to take them and go to the Endless Sky. If things work out, the Endless Sky is a ce that will be of assistance to you, as well.


    ...


    What? Is there something on my face? Whyre you staring at me like that?


    Hyukjin nearly blurted, Because youre pretty, but barely managed to catch himself.


    Keep talking, he said instead, knowing she would volunteer the answers. The Guardians were probably wondering what she was saying, too.


    Were good on defense, since the whalekin should be able to block the Steel Wyverns attacks. Isabel paused. But if we are to reach the Endless Sky, only relying on defense wont get us there.


    He understood exactly what she meant. Hyukjin had a clear view of the situation as well. He picked up where she left.


    The whalekin have starved for too long, and simply ascending up to the Endless Sky will take every bit of energy they have. Thats what you wanted to say, right?


    Right.


    So ultimately, well have to take care of the Steel Wyverns before we begin the ascent.


    Isabel nodded. As expected, my husbands got great acumen. Do you have a n, then? Why are you so full of confidence?


    I have a n, yeah.


    He nced at where he thought Senia was. She wasnt visible, but he was sure she was hard at work, streaming.


    Isabel asked him another appropriate question.


    Whats your n?


    Youll see when we go above the surface.


    The whalekin would be hard-pressed to swim through the sky all the way up to the Endless Sky. They were weakened by centuries of starvation, so they had to first clear the way in the Sea of Clouds, where they could move with rtive ease.


    Above the surface?


    Well be hunting the Steel Wyverns in the Sea of Clouds.


    And how exactly do you want to do that? The whalekin cant attack.


    Ill do it.


    You will? I dont think you can kill those birds with your current skills.


    Hyukjin smiled once again. He intentionally cut things off here, leaving Isabel and the Guardians hanging.


    Youll see when we get there.


    That would fire up their anticipation a little more.


    I have a way.


    Conjuring a way forward when none seemed to exist, that was a producers job.


    Lets go.

 Chapter 256

    Chapter 256


    Hyukjin heard the blobs of light that were the whalekin murmuring amongst themselves.


    Can we really return to the Endless Sky?


    Wasnt that impossible because of the vow?


    The skybirds will attack us.


    It was excellent that they were saying such things. The Guardians were hearing them, too.


    <em>Its impossible.</em>


    <em>Its hard.</em>


    <em>Theres no way.</em>


    The supporting actors had to supply such discouraging words in order to amplify the excitement when the protagonist triumphed against all odds.


    The group gathered near the surface.


    Its gotten a lot brighter.


    A little further up, once they were clear of the surface, they would see the sea made of clouds.


    I can feel the Steel Wyverns.


    They werent very far. It seemed that they had sensed the approach of the whalekin.


    Would it be possible to gather the SteelI mean, the skybirds? Hyukjin asked.


    Naphtha answered, Yes, by shooting a sonic wave.


    Make as many of them as possiblee this way.


    Naphthans expression grew grim. Hyukjin could guess why.


    Because he is a boulder who fears crushing the egg.


    The whalekin were a race endowed with a truly great amount of strength, yet Napthan was worried about the lives of the Steel Wyverns that attacked them and nearly killed his daughter. They were truly fascinating folk.


    I cantprehend them.


    In any case, the show had to go on.


    In human terms, I am a yer who carries out the role of a ss called sovereign.


    I see.


    So I will takemand over you, Napthan, and through you, the whalekin. At least until you return to the Endless Sky.


    What do we need to do?


    As we just discussed, shoot a sonic wave and get as many of them as you can over here.


    What Hyukjin was going for was a carpet-bombing, a method that would take out a bunch of Steel Wyverns at once.<blockquote>


    [The Whispering Devil is having fun.]


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas agrees with your tactic.]


    [The Barrier of Blue Light watches with great interest.]


    [The Nameless Observer is observing.]


    [The Lady of the Scales is focusing.]</blockquote>


    Five Guardians sent a diverse set of messages. The Herdsman of Las Vegas, the Guardian of the Gold Pyramid and the number one sovereign in the US, appeared to support Hyukjins choice.


    Ill block your ears, said Isabel, then immediately blushed. You know, because Husband is weak.


    She went behind him and reached for his ears, leaving the staff to float next to her.


    Ill protect you.


    The moment her cool hands slid over his ears, it felt like all sound was blocked off, that he was alone in a very quiet ce and an imprable wall was erected between his ears and the world.


    <em>Using my sonic wave now.</em>Hyukjin read from Naphthans lips.


    <em>Piiiiiiiii!</em>


    There was a ringing in his ears, and he instantly knew. If Isabel hadnt blocked them, he would have suffered significant damage to his auditory system.


    I can feel them.


    In the sky high above, countless Steel Wyverns were swarming in.


    Just how many of them are there?


    It was impossible to guess. If he was right, the sky above was probably thick with them, and it would look like a swarm of insects covering the sky.


    After some time, Eye of Perception sensed an innumerable mass of presences above.


    What insane bloodthirst.


    ording to the story, the Steel Wyverns had persecuted the whalekin for 500 years, over which they had sessfully killed several whalekin. As the centuries passed, they became increasingly vicious, and it was highly likely they thought of the whalekin as mere prey.


    The aura of a predator.


    That was what he felt bristling and snarling in the sky above. The determination to hunt them was palpable.


    Hyukjin spoke.


    All together, leave the Sea of Clouds.


    The whalekin hesitated a little, but they soon began to swim upward. Hyukjin once again sensed the massive presence he had felt the first time.


    They look simr to humans in the Sea of Clouds.


    Like shining humans.


    But the moment they leave the Sea of Clouds, their enormous original forms appear.


    The uniquely colored, white whales appeared before him.


    What an enormous sense of pressure.


    It was like massive dinosaurs were floating in the air. The countless Steel Wyverns gathered above the Sea of Clouds by Naphthans sonic wave swarmed towards the whalekin in unison as if seizing the right moment.


    To them, this must be like a bonanza.


    They would rush in like usual, thinking their sharp beaks and ws would tear into the whalekins flesh. Because truly delicious prey was before them, they would not hesitate.


    The next moment, the Sea of Clouds turned red.


    The settings were only changed to allow them to defend, but


    The wyverns were incapable of prating the hides of the whalekin. If you threw an egg against a boulder, the egg would crack.


    Countless Steel Wyverns lost consciousness and flopped limply into the Sea of Clouds.


    Oho.


    In the Sea of Clouds, the wyverns grew smaller. Smaller and smaller and smaller. Just like how the massive whalekin transformed into small humanoid beings inside the Sea of Clouds, the same went for the wyverns.


    But instead of turning into humanoid beings, they continued shrinking, until finally, they were fist-sized stones that sparkled yellow.


    Are those


    <em>Mana crystals?</em>


    Taeguk Shields Squad 2 was dispatched in Boracay right now to get these mana crystals.


    What a windfall!


    The wyverns that fell into Sea of Clouds were automatically killed and transformed into mana crystals.


    Kim Darong. Can you swim?


    Music notes danced over Kim Darongs head, a yellow mana crystal already in his little paw. The squirrel disappeared. Kim Darong was nowhere to be seen, but judging by how the mana crystals that had appeared in the Sea of Clouds disappeared one by one, it was clear that the squirrel was hard at work.


    Just how many of them are there?


    The stupid wyverns had charged full-tilt at a boulder, and a huge number of them had died on the spot. However, they seemed to have caught on. The wyverns, now numbering far fewer, ceased their charge and flew into the sky, but they didnt go far. They circled around, looking as though they were trying to figure out what had just happened.


    Were going to repeat this multiple times, Hyukjin called out.


    The skybirds are capable of learning.


    I know. One or two times more, and theyll probably stop blindly charging in.


    Then what came next?


    After that, theyll begin to harass you in the air. They may not be able to eat you, but they <em>can </em>prevent you from ascending upwards.


    Their goal was to go up to the Endless Sky, a nearly impossible feat unless all of the Steel Wyverns were taken care of.


    * * *


    * * *


    I will eliminate the Steel Wyverns that will no longer charge in.


    How, Husband?


    I need you to help me, Isabel.


    Me?


    Yeah. Im weak.


    Thats true As someone in a Swords Pact, and as your bride, its only natural for me to help you, but


    Isabels amber eyes seemed to say, Even if you swing me with all your might, I dont think you can catch them.


    Isabel. Youll help me, right?


    Of course I will.


    No matter what it takes?


    Yeah.


    Then lend me some mana.


    Isabel tilted her head. Mana?


    <em>Even though Im a sword?</em>


    The Sea of Clouds has an infinite amount of mana of a density far beyond whats in regr fields. Am I right?


    Inparison to regr fields, yes, I suppose?


    But I cant tap into this mana.


    And?


    I need you to gather the mana and make it so I can use it.


    Isabel scowled a little. Are you asking me, Isabel of the Sword Forest, to use magic right now?


    It was, in other words, a mana heal. He was asking her to replenish his mana. Hyukjin turned around and looked directly into Isabels eyes.


    Before youre Isabel of the Sword Forest, youre my bride.


    ...


    Without your help, I wont be able to leave this ce, my growth will stagnate, and I will starve to death.


    ...


    If that happens, Ill die without being able to see your true appearance.


    ...


    You need me to exist, and I need to live for you to live. Were bound in a Swords Pact.


    Thats true, but


    Isabel shuddered. She really did look like a sword who cursed her god-given talent.


    Its not that youre using magic. Youre just helping the other half of your Swords Pact, your husband. Youre helping the weak me.


    ...


    In the end, Isabel nodded.


    But dont forget. Im a sword. Not a magician. Got it?


    Youre the greatest sword I know.


    Fine. Thats enough ttery. I have a duty to protect you anyway, so Ill do just that.


    Thats very reassuring.


    So? If I fill you with mana, whatre you gonna do?


    I got an ability while you were sleeping.


    Hyukjin got onto Naphthans back, then rose to the surface with the giant whale. The world brightened, and the cloud ocean stretched out on all sides. The Sea of Clouds was very different from the outside than it was on the inside.<blockquote>


    [Using the special ability Immortal Fleet.]</blockquote>


    His new ability to summon the 12-vessel Immortal Fleet could only be used on the sea, a condition the Sea of Clouds fulfilled.


    As such, the Immortal Fleet that had earned such glory in the Bali Naval Battle made its debut. Hyukjin tried uttering an incantation, the one the German archer Schultz had used.


    Seek life to die, seek death to live.


    But nothing happened. The incantation failed to take effect, and the words were just an empty imitation.


    Whatever, it doesnt matter.


    It would have been great if the incantation had seeded, but it was fine. He still had a 12-vessel fleet.


    The whalekin will handle the defense.


    With the whalekin protecting the fleet, Hyukjin could focus solely on offense. They could do that, at least.


    My fleet and I will handle the offense, Hyukjin said, standing on Naphthans great back.<blockquote>


    [The Immortal Fleet recognizes enemy presence.]</blockquote>


    He felt mana drain from him. This ability would be hard to maintain for long in normal circumstances.


    But he had Isabel standing beside him. Mana billowed from the purple crystal at her staff. Isabels body glowed blue, and that blue light enveloped Hyukjins body.


    It feels refreshing. And


    It was like a near-infinite amount of mana was surging into his body.


    I can operate the Immortal Fleet almost ad infinitum.


    He heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [Give themand to fire?]</blockquote>


    With Hyukjins assent, the 12-vessel fleet fired. Powerful mana cannonballs made of the Sea of Clouds mana shot out, some of them firing off at what seemed like light speed.


    The unique environment that is the Sea of Clouds is empowering the Immortal Fleet.


    The attack was far more powerful than he expecteda single volley instantly obliterated two or three wyverns.<blockquote>


    [Steel Wyvern has been killed.]


    [EXP cannot be acquired.]


    [Items will not be dropped.]</blockquote>


    The penalty of his ss took effect.


    Oops. I cant melt them into nothingness like that.


    He corrected the n a little.


    Decrease the intensity, and aim for their wings.


    He had to drop them into the Sea of Clouds without killing them. Kim Darong would then scoop up the mana crystals.


    The Guardians leapt forward to send messages.<blockquote>


    [The Lady of the Scales sends a 300 Coin sponsorship.]


    [The Courageous Lion King gifts Courage.]


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas sends a 500 Coin sponsorship.]


    [The Nameless Observer observes.]


    [The Conductor of Sound is very impressed.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin heard Naphthans voice.


    I was not aware you possessed an artifact of such strength.


    Honestly, it was news to Hyukjin as well. This was a result produced by Isabels ability and the Sea of Clouds ovepping.


    I didnt think itd be this strong, either.


    It was utter destruction. This wasnt war, but ughter. The might of the Immortal Fleet exceeded all imagination, and the Steel Wyverns in the sky scrambled to flee in a panic.


    Dont let a single one go.


    The Immortal Fleet punched through the wings of the fleeing wyverns. The vast majority of them dropped into the Sea of Clouds, and only a very small few managed to escape.


    Even Hyukjin hadnt expected this one-sided ughter, and the mana crystal bounty that followed. On top of that, he got another notice.<blockquote>


    [You have ughtered the Steel Wyverns.]


    [The yers current level is 39 and corresponds to the beginner period.]</blockquote>


    A very short pause ensued.<blockquote>


    [System Scan Result: No bugs have been discovered.]


    [The System has recognized the situation as an impossible feat.]


    [You have aplished an achievement.]</blockquote>


    And in a development Hyukjin never expected, a wonderful development, Hyukjin was given a reward for his achievement.

 Chapter 257

    Chapter 257<blockquote>


    [You have scored an achievement.]</blockquote>


    The reward for a level 39, beginner period yer hunting not just one Steel Wyvern, but exterminating an entire flock, was given in the form of a choice.<blockquote>


    [You may choose the title Wyvern yer.]</blockquote><blockquote>


    [Wyvern yer]


    A title given to a yer who hunted at least 30 wyverns in a normally near-impossible situation.<ul><li>


    +20% damage to all dragon subspecies</li><li>


    Fear effect on all dragon subspecies</li><li>


    Can open the hidden field in the Sky of Freedom, Wyvern Nest.</li></ul></blockquote>


    When Hyukjin first came here, he guessed this ce had a shore, or something like it. That shore was the Wyvern Nest. It was a hidden field that would very likely give him some kind of hidden reward.


    He checked the other choice.<blockquote>


    [You may choose the quest item Trace of the Chungmugong.]


    Chungmugong, or Lord of Loyal Valor, is a title given posthumously to those who achieved great military merit for the country. This item carries the energy of a war diary, and it will presumably lead one to a trace of the Chungmugong.<ul><li>


    Upon fulfilling a special condition, triggers the quest Trace of the Chungmugong.</li></ul></blockquote>


    The item itself had little reward value, but it would lead to something else. The item was required in order to trigger the next quest.


    Hyukjin thought for a moment.


    What should I choose?


    The first was a title that would give him a type advantage over all dragon subspecies. Hyukjin had already strongly experienced the power of titles.


    Waterdrakes are probably a dragon subspecies.


    If so, the title would be very potent in the Endless Sky. Moreover, he could activate a hidden field on the way up. The reward was plusses all around.


    Senia asked, Will you make a choice?


    I need to, yeah.


    Which reward will you choose?


    The Guardians must be curious.


    Since waterdrakes are a dragon subspecies, choosing Wyvern yer will help me quite a lot in the Endless Sky.


    ...


    Senia remained silent, as if to say she wouldnt offer any hints or try to influence the yer.


    So I He would subvert the Guardians expectations. ...choose number 2.


    Number 2 will not be of any help in clearing the current field.


    I know that, too.


    He made his decision, so now he had to support it with a reasonable exnation that would satisfy the Guardians.


    Im guessing the Endless Sky is a ce with mana of significantly greater quantity and purity.


    Natalie nodded emphatically next to him. He also heard her mumbling to herself that there was a lot of delicious mana there.


    So Isabel will be far more powerful there than she is here.


    If the Endless Sky is as yer Kim Hyukjin predicts, that is true.


    Then even without the help of a title Hyukjin reached to take hold of Isabels arm, then gently tugged her forward. She obliged,ing to stand next to him with feigned helplessness. As a Sword Pactee, Ill certainly be able to face them. Since I have Isabel by my side.


    He turned to Isabel. Right, Isabel?


    ...


    Waterdrakes cant do anything to a Sword Pactee. Theyll be stronger than me, of course, but theyre weaker than my bride.


    Once again, Hyukjin felt fortified by Isabels presence. She wasnt answering, but she felt so very dependable.


    Isabel finally responded.


    I hate ying the clown for those sted Guardians, but Ill help you. I dont want my husband to die.


    Hyukjin snuck a nce at Senia. Her wings werent trembling, meaning she wasnt rmed. That confirmed his suspicion.


    Just like how Im sometimes prevented from hearing things, the Guardians cant hear Isabels voice.


    It was like Hyukjin getting the --- treatment.


    This is even better.


    The Guardians didnt seem to know what Isabel was saying.


    In other words, Isabels existence itself is special enough for the System to conceal what shes saying.


    That just made her seem even more dependable. At first, he didnt know what to make of this bride business, but now, he was exceedingly happy with that choice.


    I choose Trace of the Chungmugong.<blockquote>


    [Distributing the quest item Trace of the Chungmugong.]</blockquote>


    An item appeared in his Inventory, and with that, his to-do list gained another line.


    * * *


    * * *


    Natalie trembled. The fact that Hyukjin was in a Swords Pact with Isabel was shocking enough, but the more they talked, the more she wanted to look inside his head.


    But cmon, are you really serious? She continued animatedly like the young whalekin she was. In my 250 years of life, Ive never met anyone as crazy as you.


    Natalie. You mustnt be careless with what you say to the Sword Pactee.


    But Dad! Youre shocked too, arent you? She repeated Hyukjins suggestion,pletely bewildered. He wants to be <em>swallowed </em>by you. Whats he gonna do if he gets digested?


    Im not mana, Hyukjin assured.


    Whalekin subsisted off mana, and Kim Hyukjin wasnt mana.


    But still! How are you even gonna get out?


    I think I cane out through the blowhole when you spout clouds, just like you did earlier, Natalie.


    Of the various ways to reach the Endless Sky, Hyukjin decided to use the hide in Naphthans belly method.


    There are still a few skybirds left, and the whalekin will need to devote every bit of their energy to swimming. You wont have the leisure to pay attention to me. And Isabels asleep.


    Isabel said she was going back to sleep to reserve her strength, though she didnt tell him exactly why.


    Thats why I thought this was the safest way.


    There was no safer ce than Naphthans stomach. Naphthan nodded.


    Though it is a method I never considered It is indeed the safest way. Im surprised you came up with it.


    What do you think? Will it work?


    I believe so, yes, but since its never been done before, I am hard-pressed to give you a guarantee.


    It was probably possible. Hyukjin nodded.


    Thats enough. Its far more dangerous for me to try getting up there while clinging to one of your backs anyway.


    He would have to protect himself from Steel Wyverns. He would be far safer in Naphthans stomach.<blockquote>


    [The Nameless Observer observes.]


    [The Courageous Lion King is bored.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain ridicules your cowardly scheme.]


    [The Whispering Devil is amused.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin waited for a certain Guardian.


    Come out, will you?


    And to his relief, the Guardian answered his wish.<blockquote>


    [The Barrier of Blue Light likes your defensive strategy.]</blockquote>


    Now, he was sure. A protection-lover like the Barrier of Blue Light giving their stamp of approval meant this was a safe y.


    Naphthan opened his mouth wide in his white whale form.


    <em>Whoooooosh!</em>


    Clouds were sucked in, and with them, Hyukjin. He entered the body of Naphthan, the whalekin, andnded in a ce he guessed was the stomach. Around him were finely squirming muscles. As expected of the whalekins massive size, Naphthans stomach was expansive enough to be called a field in its own right.


    This is the inside of a whalekins stomach.


    When he first entered the Sky of Freedom, he never expected something like this. He imagined this was entertaining content for the Guardians as well.


    Wouldve been fun if they counted this as a field and had something else happen here.


    Unfortunately, nothing like that happened. He heard a voice.


    <em>We will now start swimming.</em>


    The whalekin set off. They began to swim up through the sky towards their homnd, the Endless Sky.


    * * *


    Naphthans stomach was quitefortable. Nothing particrly dangerous urred, and the slight warmth and coziness even made him feel a bit sleepy.


    Hyukjin calmly organized his thoughts.


    Will I be able to meet the Demon King at the Endless Sky?


    He said he would be waiting at the Endless Sky, but would Hyukjin really be able to meet him there? Hyukjin also mused that it might be better to <em>not </em>meet the Demon King, if possible. After all, the Demon King was the scariest opponent Hyukjin currently had.


    But also, I strangely want to meet him.


    Illogical as it was, a part of him was scared but didnt want to run away. Because every time he met the Demon King, Hyukjin gained something or grew stronger. And technically, the Endless Sky was an arrangement of the Demon King.


    What a fascinating feeling.


    He tried recalling the Demon Kings face.


    As expected, I cant remember it.


    Now that he had Cognitive Dissonance Dispel, it might be possible to see the Demon Kings face.


    Quite a long time passed.


    Senia. How long has it been?


    4 days and 22 hours.


    Hyukjin had sat here undisturbed for almost 5 days. All he could feel was that the whalekin were still swimming.


    It does seem like Naphthan is tired.


    Maybe because he was inside the whalekins body, he could somewhat sense Naphthans condition. Naphthan no longer periodically spoke to him as he had in the beginning.


    <em>Haah Haah</em>


    Instead, Hyukjin heard only rough breathing. If the Steel Wyverns hadnt been exterminated, this journey may have been impossible.


    More time passed, and when Hyukjin had been in Naphthans stomach for 1 week, he heard the whalekins weak voice.


    <em>We have almost reached the Endless Sky.</em>


    Hyukjin got up and started moving towards the blowhole. He had already figured out its rough location.


    When weve reached the Endless Sky in earnest, and when you have fully secured your safety, release a spout. Ille out through the blowhole, said Hyukjin.


    Reaching the Endless Sky wasnt the end. 500 years ago, when the whalekin left, there were waterdrakes here. How had they changed in all this time?


    <em>Understood. I will do so.</em>


    And then, some timeter


    <em>I think it is safe. We see no waterdrakes.</em>


    But then, it was like the floodgates opened. Something came flooding in like a tsunami through the esophagus into the stomach, where Hyukjin was. It wasnt visible to the eye, but Hyukjins Eye of Perception captured it in perfect rity.


    Shit.


    He knew what it was.


    Mana.


    It was mana, but not just any mana. It was overly <em>pure</em> mana, and in excessive quantity. Just touching it was dangerous. It might be the perfect food for the whalekin, but not for Hyukjin.


    He used sh Step.


    Stop inhaling mana, he called out. But the mana continued rushing in. From the looks of it, this wasnt something Naphthan could control.


    The Endless Sky.


    This environment itself was too dangerous for Hyukjin. He ran.


    If I go out


    He would be exposed to even more mana than here. The current situation was more dangerous than a radioactive meltdown. If he hadnt gone up in a whalekins stomach, his body would have disintegrated upon arrival, proving that he had indeed, by some lucky coincidence,nded upon the safest method.


    To the whalekin, its heaven. To me, its hell.


    For Hyukjin, the Endless Sky was essentially a hellish ocean filled with hydrochloric acid instead of water. He fled with every ounce of his strength from the tidal wave of mana nipping at his back.


    His back began to sting, the portent of a light burn. And he felt it. He would be consumed by this mana. Eye of Perception showed him the future, just as it had in the Tutorial Field.


    He saw a future where he was swallowed by the mana and his body disintegrated.


    No.


    He hadnt wed his way here to perish in vain. This ce was a part of the Demon Kings arrangements. Would the Demon King have arranged and told him about this ce so he could die here? No.


    Its not that I didnt expect this.


    To be precise, he hadnt expected this crisis specifically, but he <em>had </em>imagined the worst-case scenario.


    There is a way.


    A way to survive this horrifying mana.

 Chapter 258

    Chapter 258


    A tidal wave of mana that Hyukjin could only express as absolutely terrifying rushed relentlessly towards him.


    Mana isnt a living creature or a monster.


    It was a part of the environment, which was a type of setting.


    An innate setting of the Endless Sky field.


    Something Hyukjin had learned through his ying so far was that settings had to be fought with settings. There was always a setting that could trump another setting.


    The System gave me rewards just bying here.


    Before setting off, Hyukjin was sure there was a definite reason why he would be given three rewards just by reaching the Endless Sky.<blockquote>


    [Distributing Blessing of the Whalekin as a clear reward.]


    [Distributing Whalekin Sinew as a clear reward.]</blockquote>


    And one more.<blockquote>


    [You have acquired the rights to the Treasure of the Whalekin as a clear reward.]</blockquote>


    Naphthan said he would find this treasure in the Endless Sky and give it to him. In other words, Naphthan needed some time to find it.


    Thankfully, he already had the reward he needed now. Hyukjin took out an item the shape of a blue marble, the Blessing of the Whalekin, and crushed it.<blockquote>


    [Blessing of the Whalekin is taking effect.]


    [Blessing of the Whalekin willst for 24 hours.]


    [Temporarily adding a physical trait due to Blessing of the Whalekin.]</blockquote>


    On top of the two traits he already had, Divine Bow Physique and Divine Sword Physique, Hyukjin temporarily gained the trait Whale Physique.<blockquote>


    [The Whale Physique trait is taking effect.]


    [You can breathe the mana of the Endless Sky.]</blockquote>


    The burning sensation on his back vanished.


    Ah.


    Coolness washed over him, and then he was on the ground, vomiting all the contents of his stomach. He heaved multiple times, and everything he expelled was cleansed into nothingness by mana. After emptying his stomach, he felt all refreshed. He had the sensation of being perfectly full even without eating anything, and it felt like mana was entering his body.


    This is how the whalekin live.


    This feeling of physical satiety and deep mental satisfaction, it was no exaggeration to call it ecstasy. It was peaceful and wonderful, like all the high of being pleasantly drunk with none of the tipsiness.


    Hyukjin exited Naphthans body through the whalekins blowhole.


    This is the Endless Sky.


    It was like he was in a blue ocean. Everywhere around him was mana that looked like water. With every breath, the mana circted through his body and was exhaled out.


    I feel like Im growing just by breathing.


    Hyukjin pulled out Isabel.<blockquote>


    [A special condition has been temporarily fulfilled.]


    [The majority of Isabels abilities have been unlocked.]


    [Isabel manifests.]</blockquote>


    There was a sh so bright that Hyukjin was briefly forced to close his eyes. He opened them again.


    Isabel?


    Before him was the white robed Isabel. Mana surged from the purplish gem at the tip of her staff.


    Isabel stretched.


    I can finally breathe a bit. Its gotta be at least Endless Sky level.


    Hyukjin couldnt look directly at her. He didnt know whyhe simply could not raise his eyes. It wasnt a response born of fear, but awe. So much awe that his body rejected the very notion of meeting Isabels eyes.


    It felt as though he was looking at a massive sun.


    Where did the whalekin go?


    All the whalekin were gone. In this blue cosmos were just the two of them.


    Husband. Since were at the Endless Sky, you may as well learn the breathing technique before we go.


    Breathing technique?


    You probably wont be able to use it in other fields.


    Then its meaningless to learn it.


    Experiencing the farthest heights, if only for a moment, is something martial artists dream of. Because that alone is a valuable experience.


    Hyukjin realized what she meant. She was right. In all things, there was a world of difference between having experienced something once and having never experienced it.


    The purplish ne at Isabels neck sparkled.


    Sit down in the lotus position.


    Lotus position?


    Hyukjinplied, feeling as though his body were floating in midair.


    Youre breathing the mana of the Endless Sky right now. Correct?


    Yeah.


    Unlike usual, Hyukjinsmand over the conversation waspletely snatched away from him. He moved exactly as Isabel directed, as she told him to do. And yet, he didnt feel that it was strange or unpleasant to do so.


    Excuse me for a moment.


    Isabel went to Hyukjins back, then reached out around him and ced a hand on his chest, making her look like she was hugging him from behind.


    Feel your heart beating.


    Isabels hand was warm. When her hand touched him, an indescribable sense of security washed over him, and her touch awakened a thrill he had forgotten for a long time.


    His heart thumped loudly.


    Remember this sensation.


    Isabel stretched out her other hand andid it on his lower belly. Her palm came in contact with his skin.


    Here.


    Isabel gently stroked Hyukjins lower abdomen.


    Think of there being another heart here. Visualize another heartbeat being here in your mind.


    Hyukjins view instantly turned inwards, showing him a different world. He became an observer of his own body.


    This


    He couldnt be sure, but he knew that Isabel had helped him.


    ...is an opportunity.


    Most of Isabels abilities were unlocked right now. It seemed she had used some special method of her own to guide him.


    Thats my heart.


    He saw the muscles of his heart.


    Ah. He had experienced this before. I saw the inside of Naphthans stomach.


    He had seen a living beings insides, up close and personal. Maybe because of that, it was far easier to visualize the inside of his own body. He heard Isabels voice.


    Make an imaginary heart and put it in your lower abdomen.


    He could no longer see Isabel or feel her touch. Only he, Kim Hyukjin, existed in this microcosm that was a humans body.


    A heart formed before his eyes.


    This is an imaginary heart.


    It was imaginary, but it looked the same as a real heart. It was just a heart he couldnt see unless he was visualizing it.


    nt that in your lower abdomen. You need this in order to turn the mana of the Endless Sky into your own mana. Ill help you, so just focus on visualizing. You just need to stay still, came Isabels reliable voice. Ill do the rest.


    And then, time passed. Hyukjin could feel the newly formed, additional heart in his lower belly beating.


    Breathe in.


    * * *


    * * *


    The cosmos cracked, and then he was once again in the real world. The Endless Sky, this new ce full of blue mana. He could feel Isabels warmth again.


    First, move this blue mana into your lower abdomens heart.


    The mana moved like it had a will of its own.


    After converting the mana into your own through this heart, send it to every corner of your body. Ah, actually.


    Isabel came to stand in front of him.


    Get up real quick.


    He did as she asked.


    Excuse me for a moment.


    She leaned forward, and then put her lips on his.


    Open your lips and hold still, she murmured.


    That moment, Hyukjin felt an ecstasy even greater than any flutter of the heart, even more intense than the delight he experienced when he first came to the Endless Sky. He felt the mana that had been purified by Isabels body push its way through every part of his body.


    Stuff from within my body is being expelled.


    From his eyes, nose, mouth, ears, even his anus and the pores of his skin, smelly ck pus oozed out. Some of it even trickled into Isabels mouth, but she revealed no revulsion.


    Dont think about other things. Whats most important right now is purifying your body, Husband.


    It was as if the impurities in his body were expelled and his body was being purified by the Endless Skys mana. It also felt like the Athenaes me dwelling inside his body was reacting with the Endless Skys mana.


    His body was cold. It was cold, but simultaneously hot, a strange sensation.


    Isabel said, Remember this feeling. This is how mana flows within our bodies. It passes through the second heart and through the imaginary artery. Then, it passes the real heart and travels to every part of the body.


    It was like all the vessels in his body were changed from red to blue, like the blood flowing through his veins was blue instead of red.


    Isabel moved away.


    You can do it on your own, right?


    The impurities that had seeped out of Hyukjins body had already been cleansed by the Endless Skys mana.


    I think so.


    You need to remember this pathway and feeling. Only then can you attain ---.


    Hyukjin asked one thing.


    Isabel. Would this have been possible if I hadnt had your help?


    His bodys impurities were expelled, and he had observed the inside of his own body. He was able to watch and contemte how the mana inside his body flowed as if it were some exhibit at a museum. Hyukjin knew such a feat was not as easy as it seemed.


    It would have been impossible.


    For the slightest moment, he felt a spike of extreme pain. A jolt ran down his spine and blitzed through his entire body. Hyukjin nearly passed out.


    The pain you just felt, I took it in your stead.


    ...


    You and I are bound by a Swords Pact. I assumed the pain you should have felt.


    I see Without you, I would have fainted.


    Dont worry. As long as Im here, such a thing wont happen.


    It was a funny feeling. Up to this point, he had done everything independently. But it was a little different now. The absolute being called Isabel was doing everything for him.


    And though it may be a very painful sensation for you, it isnt much to me.


    ...


    Now that he thought about it, how was it that Noah of the U-Plex Dungeon had a transcendent artifact like this?


    Its no simple matter.


    Isabel was an existence powerful enough to directly interfere with the System. It made no sense for a meaningless NPC like Noah to possess such a being. There was more to uncover about Isabel, Noah, and the U-Plex Dungeon.


    Okay, try it a bit longer. Focus, and dont move for about three hours.


    That was easy enough to say, but hard to do. Hyukjin sat in lotus position and devoted his utmost attention to breathing the Endless Skys mana and casting it into every part of his body.


    And then, after three hours, he heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [You have seeded in absorbing the mana of the Endless Sky.]


    [A new trait, Endless Sky Physique, has been generated.]


    [A new heart has settled in your lower abdomen.]


    [A new name must be imprinted on the new heart.]</blockquote>


    What does it mean to imprint a name on the heart? Hyukjin asked.


    Eh, its nothing much. Youve created something that didnt originally exist, so the creator must give the creation a name. Just pick whatever name you want.


    Hyukjin grinned. He had a good idea. He knew this happy chancended on hisp thanks to this absolute being named Isabel, and that this Endless Sky Physique was better than just good.


    Isabel.


    What?


    I choose the name Isabel.


    ...


    While he was learning, he allowed things to go as the absolute being wished. That was far better than clumsily taking control. He needed Isabels guidance to grow properly.<blockquote>


    [The new hearts name has been set to Isabel.]


    [The heart has been named.]</blockquote>


    Isabel blushed a little.


    Thats embarrassing, what the heck?


    A heart can also mean another life.


    In other words, his other life was Isabel.


    Whatever. I dont wanna hear such ttery. Isabels face reddened even more. I merely did what I should as a Sword Pactee and your bride.


    Eye of Perception read Isabels emotions. The fact that he was able to do so despite the huge power gap between them meant her emotions were just that intense.<blockquote>


    State: First Flutter in Ten Thousand Years / Happiness / Embarrassment</blockquote>


    Hyukjin added insult to injury.


    Never thought Id have my first kiss like this.


    Th-That wasnt a kiss.


    Say what you will, but it was a kiss to me.


    Just then, he heard a voice.


    Hrrrrm? You kissed?


    It was Natalie. After three hours away, the whalekin were back. Natalie was in her glowing human form. She jumped up and down with a hand over her mouth.


    A kiss! A kiss! A kiss! Ooh, how thrilling.


    Whale child, refrain from pointless imprudence.


    But Lady Isabel, did you really have a kiss?


    The leader of the whalekin, Naphthan, interrupted with an ahem.


    Natalie. Thats not whats important right now. Naphthan turned to stare at Hyukjin. Theres something we need to tell you.


    The leader of the whalekin started saying something very interesting.


    I think something has happened to the Endless Sky over these 500 years.

 Chapter 259

    Chapter 259


    There are no waterdrakes, said Naphthan.


    Hyukjins Eye of Perception couldnt sense anything at all. The worst-case scenario was this: after feeding off the Endless Skys mana, the waterdrakes evolved into new beings, creatures so strong they transcended detection by the whalekin or Hyukjins Eye of Perception. A being like a dragon, for instance.


    If that was the case, they wouldnt have just let us be.


    If the worst-case scenario were true, there was no point in trying to calcte or prepare. It would be the end. He decided not to consider the worst-case scenario, since there was no countermeasure anyway.


    Natalie tilted her head.


    Maybe they knew we wereing back and ran away?


    Thats unlikely. If they were going to do that, they wouldnt havee to the Endless Sky in the first ce.


    Hyukjin looked around.


    The Endless Sky 500 years ago and the Endless Sky now. The waterdrakes that existed in the past. The waterdrakes that dont exist now.


    Hyukjin asked, Were there only whalekin in the Endless Sky originally?


    Yeah, thats right. The Endless Sky was the nest of the whalekin! Right, Dad?


    Naphthan stroked Natalies head.


    So that means 500 years ago, before the waterdrakes came, there were no lifeforms here other than the whalekin.


    That is correct, Sword Pactee.


    Hyukjin noticed something strange.


    Were the waterdrakes such high-level creatures?


    Hyukjin had seen for his own eyes how the Steel Wyverns that fell into the Sea of Clouds shrank, transforming into mana crystals. Darongi had pocketed the entire catch; the mana crystals sparkling in his Inventory were proof of that.


    Waterdrakes are a subspecies of dragon, yes, but they cant be that much stronger than a wyvern.


    The Steel Wyverns disappeared as soon as they fell into the Sea of Clouds, leaving only mana crystals behind.


    But this ce is roiling with even more horrifying mana than the Sea of Clouds.


    If he hadnt gotten the temporary Whale Physique trait from the Whalekins Blessing, he wouldnt have been able to survive here.


    If you think about it, its weird. Why arent there any other creatures than the whalekin here?


    Youre right


    Only after the passage of 500 years did Naphthan realize something was strange. Hyukjin continued.


    Its because the mana here is overly clean.


    Fish could not survive in water that was too clear.


    I was also almost consumed by the mana.


    This ce might be heaven for the whalekin, but for other creatures, it was hell.


    But the waterdrakes came here.


    He didnt know how many paths to the Endless Sky there were. But even the extremely powerful whalekin struggled to swim all this way. Then what about the waterdrakes?


    And youre telling me the same waterdrakes breathed here and chased you guys out?


    In a ce with mana like this?


    No matter how you think of it, its strange.


    Yes, now that you say so, its indeed strange.


    Before I pointed it out, none of you thought it was strange.


    The whalekin were a race that had little need of thinking. They had no natural enemies and no hunger to worry about. All they needed to do was float along and simply live. But even considering that, this was odd.


    Its strange that the waterdrakes were able toe here at all, and its strange that they were able to survive here. And its even more strange that no one noticed that it was strange. Am I right?


    You are.


    For something as strange as this, there had to have been some outside influence.


    It wasnt something that could naturally ur.


    I already know about the unknown being who is cultivating Predator Trees.


    Before, it would have never in a thousand years urred to him that the Predator Trees he knew were all cultivated by someones hand. But now, he knew that to be true.


    Then there could be another unknown being raising waterdrakes.


    If that being used something likerge-scale Cognitive Dissonance, it would somewhat exin this phenomenon.


    Someones active involvement.


    Then who, exactly, was that someone? Somehow, he could guess who it was. There was someone who had been setting this stage starting 500 years ago.


    Someone called me here.


    Who?


    His name among humans is the Demon King. The issue is, I think this is a special field you cant reach by normal means.


    This was a ce permitted solely to the whalekin, a truly unique ce that only special beings like Isabel knew.


    Getting here is already nearly impossible, but the bigger problem is that if I hadnte here prepared, my body would have disintegrated.


    Without the Whalekins Blessing, he would be long dead.


    So we can say with certainty that I needed the help of the whalekin to get here.


    Yes. That does seem to be the case.


    What if you guys were in the Endless Sky?


    Then Hyukjin would have no quest from the whalekin, and therefore no Whalekins Blessing to receive as a reward. He would have no chance to get a quest from them in the first ce.


    So the Demon King sent these guys into the Sea of Clouds.


    Now, he was certain.


    The Demon King is not a yer.


    This would be impossible if he was. From the very start, he was not a yer, but an unknown existence.


    He sent you guys down to the Sea of Clouds, and as a result, I became acquainted with you, which allowed me to survive and breathe in this environment.


    Naphtha nodded.


    Your reasoning does sound right. It seems weve been used.


    The whalekin didnt seem very angry after hearing that. It was seriously hard to tell what things aroused their anger and what didnt. It seemed to Hyukjin that they didnt get angry about anything, as long as it wasnt about marriage.


    Then theres only one important thing.


    Why? Why did the Demon King n things like this 500 years ago in order to call him here? Why did the Demon King call a yer like himself to this special field peacefully inhabited by only the whalekin? The Demon King had even mentioned the Endless Sky by name.


    There should be something here that you guysthe whalekin and the Demon Kingcant do by yourselves. What might that be?


    There was something the whalekin and Demon King could not do here in the Endless Sky, so he, a human, was summoned.


    Something we cannot do


    Naphthan fell into thought. Something impossible for the whalekin, something they couldnt do in the Endless Sky.


    Natalies hand shot up.


    Dad! Theres that one thing you said all the time 250 years ago.


    What was it again?


    You said that if I dont listen to you, the mana hole will get me.


    Ah. Naphthan seemed to remember something. Thats right, the mana hole. Thats a thing.


    Hyukjin smiled. The puzzle pieces wereing together.


    What is a mana hole, exactly?


    * * *


    * * *


    The mana hole was a ck hole-like thing in the Endless Sky. ording to the whalekin, it existed at the center of the Endless Sky, and any whalekin that were sucked in were never seen again.


    Of course, we can feel the energy of the mana hole from afar.


    So in truth, there were very few whalekin who were sucked into the mana hole.


    A setting that swallows whalekin, huh, Hyukjin mumbled. This field had such a setting. Would it be possible to go within its vicinity?


    Mm.


    Naphthan thought for a moment before answering. I can bring you to the point where its still safe.


    Lets go then. To the mana hole.


    It could be dangerous. We are whalekin, but


    I know. I know that Im a human.


    He was innately far weaker than the whalekin. Even if he was high leveled and became a super top Ranker, he would probably still be weaker than the whalekin. The two races began at an entirely different starting point.


    But I think this is a fight between settings.


    That was why the Demon King went to the trouble of using tricks 500 years ago to bring him, a human and a yer, all this way.


    Oh, right. Before heading to the mana hole, he had to get what he was owed. Where is your guys treasure?


    Ah. One of our kind has gone to fetch it. It is hidden in the treasure reef.


    They waited. From afar, approached a white light. It was one of the whalekin, and in their hand was a small box called the Treasure of the Whalekin.<blockquote>


    [Distributing the Treasure of the Whalekin as a clear reward.]</blockquote><blockquote>


    [Treasure of the Whalekin]


    ?</blockquote>


    He couldnt check the contents of the box, which was golden and glowed with colorful light.


    Hyukjin stowed the treasure in his Inventory, then intentionally said aloud, I predict this is a scenario where two settings will sh, so this treasure may very well be of great help to me.


    Isabel, who had been unusually quiet, spoke up.


    That item. Give it to me for a moment.


    The treasure?


    Yeah.


    Isabel took the box, then closed her eyes. It looked like she was investigating the item.


    Some timeter, Isabel opened her eyes.


    Whale children. Do you know what this treasure is?


    It is something we have guarded as our treasure for generations.


    Im asking if you know about its use.


    ...


    Hyukjin internally snorted in bewilderment. The whalekin were truly a race that didnt think much. For them, a treasure was a treasure, no questions asked. It was true that they didnt need to think, but still, it was a wonder how they could be so oblivious.


    Hyukjin asked, Why? Do you know what this is?


    It is toocking of the smell of the whalekin to be called the whalekins treasure.


    Does that mean its not their treasure then?


    --- --- ----.


    Isabel spoke, but Hyukjin wasnt able to understand what she said. He reframed the question.


    Isabel. In your opinion, is this item something I can keep?


    In that moment


    Isabel disappeared.


    He saw her with his eyes, but his brain failed to process the information. She either nodded or shook her head, but no matter how much he strained his eyes, he could not see her. He could also not hear her voice.


    System interference.


    The System prevented him from not only hearing her, but also seeing her.


    Guess that means I need to make the choice, in the end.


    Hyukjin snatched away the treasure in Isabels hand. He did so on purpose.


    If whatever is in here is harmful to me, Isabel wouldnt have let me take it so easily.


    She had more than enough skill to keep him from taking it, but she had allowed him to grab it. That meant it wasnt deleterious.


    Lets go to the mana hole.


    I think it would be best to go into my mouth for a moment.


    Hyukjin thought that was better, too. The whalekin were so massive that there was nothing for him to grab. Being carried in Naphthans mouth was the best way.


    Naphthan revealed his true forma giant white whale, a noble being with a soft white glow. Hyukjin was sucked into Naphthans mouth, and time passed. He heard a voice.


    I will slowly spit you out.


    It seemed they had arrived. Hyukjins body moved on its own again, pulled by an irresistible force.


    Huh?


    Hyukjin lost bnce, and he began to get sucked away.

 Chapter 260

    Chapter 260


    Hyukjin was knocked off his feet.


    Husband!


    He heard Isabels voice, as well as others. Naphthan was shouting.


    Sword Pactee!


    His consciousness dimmed. He lost his bnce and was sucked away. As his body whizzed forward, Hyukjin bit his lips hard enough for blood to flow.


    I cant lose consciousness.


    His instincts screamed danger. Eye of Perception was warning him that if he cked out, he would die.


    Isabel and Naphthan couldnt do anything.


    If Isabel in her current state and Naphthan the whalekin couldnt save him, this wasnt an issue of power, but very likely an issue of settings.


    Naphthan even promised to protect me.


    But he was unable to. He had only watched in a daze as Hyukjin was sucked away.


    This is driven by a huge setting.


    He needed to stay alert. But he could feel his mental power being chipped away. It was a terrible sensation, like someone had a straw in his brain and was sucking away.


    I need to hold on.


    Around and around, the world spun round.


    I <em>will </em>hold on.


    He pulled out a dagger and shed the back of his hand. The pain kept him awake.


    The world continued to spin.


    Ah


    At some point, the spinning stopped.


    This isnt the Endless Sky.


    How to put it?


    Is it the inside of the mana hole?


    It seemed he was inside the mana hole that was said to suck in even the whalekin if they got too near.


    He heard a voice.


    Looks like you stayed awake by stabbing the back of your hand.


    Hyukjins mind instantly snapped to attention. That voice, it was familiar to his ear, an unforgettable voice. The low, deep voice was imbued with mana so profound that the current Hyukjin could not even begin to imagine its power.


    Quite the smart choice.


    The inside of the mana hole was dark. Some distance ahead was a golden chair, and sitting on the chair was a certain person.


    Demon King.


    Are you calling me Demon King?


    Thats the only way I can describe you.


    Hyukjin flinched.


    When?


    He hadnt even felt it. In the blink of an eye, the Demon King was right in front of him. He couldnt read the movement at all. The Demon Kings face was almost pressed to his, so close he could feel the mans breath.


    Hyukjin felt instantly suffocated, but he didnt show it.


    I still cant recognize your face.


    Cant be helped with your level of Cognitive Dissonance Dispel.


    Why did you call me here?


    Who knows? You tell me, why do you think I called you here?


    Hyukjin knew. This was a test.


    Kang Sun-il was not an unconditional ally. It was true that he was here thanks to the Demon Kings assistance, but was that truly doing him a favor? The answer was no. He didnt know what the Demon Kings intention was.


    If I cant provide the right answer


    Then the Demon King might cut him down without hesitation. Kang Sun-il could find another pawn to use.


    Because theres something you want from me.


    Is there really something I would want from the likes of you?


    The Demon Kings aura crashed down on Hyukjin, squashing the breath out of him. It was truly hard to breathe. The Demon King was testing him a little more harshly thanst time.


    Test or no test, Im gonna die of suffocation.


    He rapidly used an item. It was Courage, the item given to him by the Courageous Lion King. Hyukjin didnt like the Guardian one bit, but he came in handy once in a while.<blockquote>


    [Using the gift given by the Courageous Lion King, Courage.]


    [A courageous aura billows forth.]</blockquote>


    The Demon King smirked. He seemed to know this power came from the Courageous Lion King. With Courage, Hyukjin was able to resist the Demon Kings suppression a little, which allowed him to at least escape death by asphyxiation.


    After regaining some mental rity, Hyukjin calmly continued.


    Why would you keep me alive and do such a troublesome thing if there wasnt anything you wanted from me?


    Kang Sun-il smirked. Hyukjin couldnt distinguish his face, but he could feel that the man was smiling. There was an image in his head of the bright red lips above the Demon Kings head widening in a grin.


    Very well. I like your attitude. Kang Sun-il nodded. Then tell me, what is the thing I want from you?


    Theres a high chance theres something you cant obtain yourself because of a System setting. If not that, then simple curiosity towards me.


    But thetter was unlikely.


    However, youve arranged far too many things for it to be simple curiosity.


    So in the end, the answer was the former.


    Ultimately, I obtained the treasure of the whalekin.


    He had the ? item with a description he could not read, the treasure that apparently didnt belong to the whalekin at all, but was perceived as theirs.


    Isnt this what you wanted?


    Hyukjin opened his Inventory.


    Its gone!


    The Treasure of the Whalekin he had left in his Inventory had disappeared without a trace. Hyukjin had no idea when it was taken. This must be how others felt when they were robbed by Darongi.


    Kang Sun-il grinned again.


    Youre slow. Kang Sun-il tossed the small box that was the treasure up and down in his hand. Thanks to you, I was able to get my hands on this. Well done.


    ...


    Hyukjin didnt know what this treasure was, but there was no doubt it was what the Demon King wanted, and that there was some kind of reason the Demon King was unable to acquire it himself.


    Whyre you staring at me like that? You mad?


    Not at all.


    It would be a lie to say he wasnt a little displeased, but the treasure was already gone. He didnt show his feelings. Instead, he said, This happened to me because Ick the skill, after all.


    At least you acknowledge that.


    If I dont acknowledge my faults, there is no path for growth.


    A fine saying. Kang Sun-il chortled. Youve umted quite a few stigmata in the meantime.


    The Demon King looked Hyukjin up and down as if evaluating a sculpture. Hyukjin stood there frozen, feeling like he had been stripped bare before Kang Sun-ils prying gaze. It was a terrible, terrible feeling. It felt like every part of him was being scoured, down to the depths of his heart.


    Impressive. Your current level is 39. Your leveling speed isnt anything special, but youre far stronger than regr yers. And I see you destroyed the Gray Ring.


    ...


    Kang Sun-il seemed to have an ability more advanced than Hyukjins Eye of Perception. He read everything with a simple up-and-down nce.


    Howe you destroyed the Gray Ring?


    Why do you ask the obvious? I destroyed the Gray Ring because it came with a clue regarding the Sky of Freedom.


    Is that all?


    ...


    Hyukjin thought for a moment. Should he be honest here?


    Its not about choosing not to lie, but that I <em>cant </em>lie.


    He couldnt handle the consequences of lying to this man. He had to reveal what he could afford to reveal as honestly as possible, while still scraping up what benefits he could. That was the correct strategy.


    Because the Gray Ring can set the yers voluntary growth cap to 60.


    What good is that to you?


    Isnt it better to be capped at level 60 than level 40?


    Im asking why you think that.


    Does there need to be a reason?


    The Demon King shrugged. You have no reason?


    I think a world stuck at a level 60 cap would be better than a world stuck at level 40. Is that not reason enough?


    It is.


    Kang Sun-il disappeared from sight, then reappeared sitting in the golden chair.


    Youre one amusing fellow. The Demon King had his legs crossed. You acquired the temporary traits Whale Physique and Endless Sky Physique. Without those two, you cantst in the Endless Sky.


    ...


    Dont forget that sensation. Seeing as youve made your second heart, --- --- must have helped you.


    Are you talking about Isabel?


    Indeed. Isabel must be the name you can discern. Anyway, I guess I should first congratte you for managing to get here alive.


    The Demon Kings appearance began to fade. Apparently, he had judged he had gotten everything there was to get.


    I havent forgotten what you said.


    <em>I will be strong.</em>


    <em>Strong enough to make you, the person reigning as the strong one right now, kneel.</em>


    <em>Or strong enough to be a fierce de you can trust.</em>


    Try your best to be strong, then.


    The Demon King vanished, leaving only a bright red pair of lips that widened in midair. The lips uttered an evil sentence.


    If you can get out of here alive, that is.


    * * *


    * * *


    That moment, Hyukjin was crushed by an indescribable pressure.


    Gah!


    He had forgotten. This was the mana hole, a phenomenon capable of sucking in even the whalekin with its incredible force. The ck hole of the Endless Sky.


    Im getting sucked in again.


    He didnt know where he was getting drawn towards; all he could faintly tell was that he was getting sucked towards the center of the mana hole.


    My body


    It was being crushed. He had already seen what had happened to the Steel Wyverns that had fallen into the Sea of Clouds.


    If I get sucked deep inside the same will happen to me.


    He didnt know if he would be a mana crystal, but in any case, it spelled certain death.


    <em>Try your best to be strong, then.</em>


    <em>If you can get out of here alive, that is.</em>


    Hyukjin clenched his teeth.


    That son of a bitch.


    Hyukjin realized something. Even the Intermediate Administrator Senia wasnt here right now. That meant this ce was off-limits even to her.


    Its just the Demon King and me, the two of us.


    He thought back to the Demon Kingsst words.


    <em>If you can get out of here alive, that is.</em>


    Interpreted another way, those words meant there was a path to survive this ce, this mana hole that even consumed whalekin. How?


    He might be an ass, but the Demon King wouldnt have spouted meaningless nonsense.


    <em>You acquired the temporary traits Whale Physique and Endless Sky Physique. Without those two, you cantst in the Endless Sky.</em>


    <em>Dont forget that sensation. Seeing as youve made your second heart, --- --- must have helped you.</em>


    He had brought up Whale Physique and Endless Sky Physique out of nowhere, for seemingly no reason.


    Therein lies the path.


    He was sure of that. Thanks to the Whale Physique, he could breathe here, and thanks to the Endless Sky Physique, he could absorb the mana of the Endless Sky, which purified and cleansed his body while helping him stay alive.


    Absorb mana.


    The Endless Sky Physique was a body that absorbed the Endless Skys mana.


    A body that absorbs.


    Hyukjin let out an unconscious scream. It felt like his body was fragmenting. If he hadnt increased his Willpower the other day, he would have passed out.


    The sensation of absorbing mana. Second heart.


    They were clues. As his consciousness dimmed, he endured the pain of his entire body being destroyed as he continued his line of thought.


    Second heart.


    It was only one moment, but Hyukjin forgot the pain, immersing himself in utmost concentration.


    I wont resist.


    The force that was dragging him along was also mana. It was mana assigned a unique pulling force. He entrusted his body to this mana, letting go of any resistance.


    Endless Sky Physique.


    All of a sudden, he felt an enlightenment bud within him.


    In the mana hole, I didnt absorb the surrounding mana and turn it mine.


    He had jumped straight to resisting its pull. Hyukjin breathed naturally. In, and out. In, and out once more. As he repeated that process, he naturally became one with the mana of the mana hole, assimting with it.


    This is it.


    He did not resist. He simply epted it. The mana of this mana hole would not harm him. Not as long as he possessed a true Endless Sky Physique and could achieve harmony with the surrounding mana.


    Hyukjin began to breathe in the mana holes mana.


    Like Isabel taught me.


    He took it in, sent it to his second heart, and through his body once more.


    Its slowly getting better.


    Hyukjin wasnt aware, but a red eye resembling the Red Eyes was gazing at Hyukjin from afar. When Hyukjin recovered hisposure, it disappeared.


    Naturally epting the surrounding mana.


    <em>That </em>was the true strength of the Endless Sky Physique. It didnt matter what kind of mana it was. As long as it could be taken in, it was mana, in and simple.


    When he realized that, a new incantation began to emerge from Hyukjins lips.

 Chapter 261

    Chapter 261


    The red eye staring at Hyukjin from afar disappeared with a glint, and Hyukjins eyes turned red. They resembled the eyes of the Red Demon, Ahn Seohye. He fell into a trance.


    It wasnt a Will Incantation. This incantation was not driven by his conscious will, but by his instincts responding to the situation.


    Oh great Promise, terrifying in thy vastness.


    I make my vow to the Keeper of the Commandments.


    My and my mothers house havemitted crime and done evil.


    For failing to uphold thews and rules.


    The ancient vow hath ordered me thus:


    Fulfill the entreaty of those who rejoice in revering the prayer of promise and the name of the oath.


    It was a new kind of incantation. Hyukjin wasnt conscious of it, but instead of being an incantation that was uttered to himself, the words seemed to be directed at a listener. It was fundamentally a little different from previous incantations.


    From his lips emerged a voice that did not belong to him.


    <em>[On this day, raise me up.]</em>


    <em>[And I shall be beholden fore all promise.]</em>


    Hyukjins red eyes gleamed, and red energy enveloped his body.


    It feelsfortable.


    His body was still getting sucked along, but it was no longer painful. The pressure squeezing him had also disappeared. His body was on the verge of breaking, but he was okay.


    I think I just did an incantation.


    He couldnt remember. He had uttered it unconsciously. But he did know one thing.


    It was different from the incantations Ive done so far.


    In any case, the incantation was sessful, and the overwhelming mana that had nearly consumed him melted away in his body.


    It feels like Ive be one with the mana.


    He felt one with everything around him.<blockquote>


    [Awakening a hidden authority of the temporary trait Endless Sky Physique.]


    [The authority of the temporary trait Endless Sky Physique is engraved in the yers body.]


    [Generating the innate ability Assimtion.]</blockquote><blockquote>


    [Assimtion]


    Assimtion is the process of taking outside knowledge and making it your own. The Assimtion that is the hidden authority of the Endless Sky Physique has the trait of assimting mana. It makes the body one with the surrounding mana.


    Duration: 5 minutes


    Cooldown: 24 hours</blockquote>


    Hyukjin reeled in shock.


    Assimtion?


    It was a skill he knew.


    Thats the ability the Demon King used when he ughtered the magicians.


    Assimtion was a fatal ability for magicians. In the infamous Great Battle of Shanghai, the Demon King had ughtered thousands of magicians surrounding him.


    Come to think of it, the Great Battle of Shanghai is in exactly one year from today.


    Since it was January 23, 2019 today, it had already been half a year since the Tutorial Field appeared.


    This was written in his notes:


    <em>Great Battle of Shanghai. January 23, 2020. Battle between 3,000 magicians and the Demon King. Of the 3,000 magicians, 2,800 died, 180 becameatose, and 20 went missing. The Demon Kings first official battle.</em>


    3,000 people were essentially wiped out. Afterwards, the Demon King Army came to be, and the Demon King became known all across the world.


    <em>The innate ability the Demon King used that day was Assimtion.</em>


    The Demon King himself said it was Assimtionhe uttered the skill name aloud. It was an ability that allowed you to breathe the mana around you, even the savage mana of the Endless Sky. It would render the spells of magicians absolutely useless.


    Did I get the Demon Kings ability?


    Somehow, he felt uneasy.


    That jerk.


    Kang Sun-il was very punchable, but with each encounter, the rewards Hyukjin could gain as long as he could survive were second to none. Bying here, Hyukjin temporarily gained the Endless Sky Physique, as well as the ability hidden within that trait.


    He stole the treasure of the whalekin, but I got an innate ability in exchange.


    Hyukjin had the suspicion it wasnt a fair trade.


    Huh?


    His surroundings began to distort, and then Hyukjins body was flung in the opposite direction hed been getting sucked towards.


    Theres no sense of pressure.


    It almost felt like time was being rewound. Hyukjins body moved like a video being yed backwards.


    * * *


    ording to what Isabel said, the mana hole disappeared on its own after spitting him out.


    Husband. Are you okay?


    Im fine.


    I am deeply sorry for failing to protect you, mumbled Naphthan remorsefully.


    You should be. Hyukjin didnt let the opportunity slip. The whalekin were a race that greatly valued vows, yet they had failed to uphold their promise. But whats done is done.


    ...


    However, dont you think you need to pay the price for failing to keep your promise?


    Naphthan nodded. He thought for a moment. Is my daughter still not an eptable offer?


    Well, its as you can see.


    Hyukjin nced at the woman in the pure white robe standing next to him. Even from the side, Isabel was pretty. To be perfectly honest, he wanted to grab her hand right then and there.


    Naphthan said seriously, I do not know what I can do to apologize to the Sword Pactee.


    Hyukjin had a vague feeling that he woulde back to the Endless Sky at some point.


    If I ever return to the Endless Sky


    So what he asked for was an IOU.


    ...help me. With double the effort to make up for failing to help me today.


    Understood. I, and all the whalekin, swear to help you.


    Even if what I ask of you hurts someone.


    ... Naphthan brooded in silence for a long moment, then responded, We love peace. We do not engage in fights that aim to harm rather than protect. But I promise to use our breath for the Sword Pactee.


    Hyukjin nodded.


    Excellent.


    He had the feeling he had gotten everything there was to get in the Endless Sky. The Demon King disappeared after a short, but intense meeting, and Hyukjin himself gained a new ability, Assimtion.


    * * *


    * * *


    How does one return to a regr field from here?


    Naphthan scratched his head. Im not sure.


    You dont know how to go back?


    Im afraid I dont.


    Hyukjin turned to Isabel. What about you, Isabel?


    ...


    Isabel? Whatre you doing?


    Isabel appeared to be deep in thought.


    Husband.


    Yeah?


    Who did you meet in the mana hole?


    What do you mean, who did I meet?


    Dont try to fool me. You met someone.


    You wont know him. We call him the Demon King, but I dont know his true identity.


    Demon King? Someone has been given such an absurd name?


    Well, Im just calling him that for convenience.


    Now that she mentioned it, he didnt know who first attributed the title. One day, the Demon King was simply the Demon King and had the name Kang Sun-il.


    Do you know about the Demon King?


    I dont. However Isabel put a hand on Hyukjins chest and closed her eyes. Its astonishing that I can feel his stigmata so clearly even when he simply brushed past you.


    What kind of stigmata is it?


    Just a little of his scent rubbed off on you, but I feel a massive presence.


    So cmon, what kind of stigmata is that, exactly?


    Even if I tell you, you wont understand. Isabels expression darkened. And I feel it. A deep, terrible rage. How can there be such an intense rage? Just who in the world is he?


    Rage?


    I can feel rage, but alsopassion. I cant be sure; the scent is too thin. But there are truly a great many stigmata scents mixed together. Isabel was silent for a long moment of contemtion. I dont know who he is, but he called you to the mana hole, right?


    Yeah.


    He must have begun nning this 500 years ago. He circumvented the settings by using these too-kind-for-their-own-good whalekin.


    As expected of Isabel, she puzzled everything out.


    Did he get his hands on the treasure of the whalekin by twisting the settings?


    Yeah. Though he pretty much stole it from me.


    Isabel frowned, her face flushing with slight anger.


    Ill be sure to get it back for youter.


    Hyukjin heard what was left unsaid. <em>You dare to steal something of my husbands? I wont let you off. </em>The words were only implied, but he still found them quite reassuring. It was amazing she could inspire such a sense of reliability when the opponent was the Demon King. If there was one thing he had done right, it was this contract marriage.


    Oh, right! Husband. I cant send you to any random ce, but I <em>can</em> teleport you to the ce where the Sky Gate first opened.


    How?


    Of course, with warp ma


    Isabel froze, the word dying in her throat. Hyukjin caught on.


    Ah. Warp magic.


    But Isabel the sword had the unique setting of absolutely despising the use of magic, so he smoothed things over for her.


    As I thought, you can move through space with your ability as a sword.


    Th-Thats right. Thats exactly it. Remember when you made a path using a sword technique before? Its like that.


    The two appeared unrted, but that didnt seem to matter to Isabel. Faulty logic aside, it convinced Isabel, so that was a relief.


    Well then, goodbye, said Naphthan. The whalekin shall await the pactee in the Endless Sky.


    Natalie waved in farewell. Bye bye! See youter, young Oppa.


    A round portal appeared in front of Hyukjin. It was a special gate leading to another ce.<blockquote>


    [Warp Gate]


    A warp gate connected to the Sky Gate of the Tutorial Building D-Towers 2nd Floor in the Korean server.


    Usage restriction: Sword Pactee</blockquote>


    Isabel was truly an amazing wife. Who wouldve thought she would be capable of such a perfect spell? Just why in the world was she a sword?


    Anyway, Husband.


    Isabel took Hyukjins hand.


    Huh?


    Hyukjin could not refuseIsabels powerful grip whirled him around, bringing them face to face. The next moment, the world went dark around him.


    Magic?


    For the slightest moment, his vision was blocked, and it was like he was in another space.


    That wasnt a kiss earlier. Right?


    It was more like first aid given out of necessity for the formation of his second heart. But Natalie had called it a kiss, and Isabel seemed hung up on it.


    I cant acknowledge that as a kiss.


    Isabel pulled Hyukjin closer. With the overwhelming difference in strength between them, Hyukjin was unable to resist, though he never once considered resisting to begin with.


    Isabels lips met Hyukjin. There was a quiet smooching sound, and then Isabel vanished, going into Hyukjins Inventory in sword form.


    That


    The roles seemed a bit reversed, but he didnt hate the feeling.


    ...was nice?


    The warmth of her lips lingered on his. The moment her face had neared his, he saw her eyshes trembling. Isabel hadnt shown it, but she was nervous.


    How cute.


    Hyukjin lightly rubbed his lips. He definitely hadnt dreamt itthat kiss was real. Happiness shot through him.<blockquote>


    [Passing through the Sky Gate.]</blockquote>


    Going through the Warp Gate was neither dizzying nor nauseating. His means of return was far smoother than the Sky Gate he had opened through the System. That was just how perfect Isabels magic was.<blockquote>


    [Entering the Tutorial Building 2nd Floor.]</blockquote>


    Hrm? Whats this?


    He arrived at the 2nd floor of the D-Tower, where an amusing situation was lying in wait.

 Chapter 262

    Chapter 262


    Song Junghye sat at her desk, her eyes closed. She shot to her feet, grabbed the ss on her desk, and hurled it.


    The ss shattered into a million pieces on the wall.


    No one else was in the room. She huffed to herself, Kim Hyukjin, that son of a bitch.


    Ten years had already passed since she reached maturity and resolved to shove her brother aside and inherit Sungshin. Before the worldpletely changed, she thought of herself as the sole sessor of Sungshin.


    But ever since this Kim Hyukjin guy popped up out of nowhere, things were slowly changing.


    Even Oppa is steadily changing.


    The variable named Kim Hyukjin was galling enough, but to make matters worse, even her older brother was different.


    He used to always concede to me.


    Junghye was well aware that <em>she</em> was her brothers weakness.


    In truth, that was something Junghye didnt like. She believed that if Kiyeol was the sessor of Sungshin, if he was her older brother, he shouldnt do thatSungshin shoulde first before familial affection. She thought her brother was far too weak. That he had to change. That was what she thought, but when he actually did change, she found it a little irritating.


    The way Grandpa looks at Kim Hyukjin is special, too.


    Junghye wasnt sure, but she had a suspicion there was some kind of secret deal going on between her grandfather and Kim Hyukjin. A secret deal rted to her grandfathers ability.


    What do I do?


    There was no point in putting an assassin on him, and she couldnt use Sungshins power to crush him. Both her grandfather and older brother would stand in her way.


    I need to nip him in the bud before he gets any bigger.


    If he could not be an ally, then it was better to stamp him out, and very thoroughly. That was Song Junghyes way of doing things.


    I cant do it through legal means.


    So she had to find another method. It was hard to find a solution in Korea, so she turned her gaze overseas.


    Several dayster, Song Junghye had a meeting with the Chinese billionaire who was stripped of his power as a yer and chased out of the auction Michelle recently hosted, Xu Xin.


    I know the reason why you lost all your power as a yer, said Song Junghye. Its because of a certain yer.


    Do you know who that person is, Miss Song?


    Xu Xins eyes were full of venom. He could not, for the life of him, remember who that bastard was, even though there had been many witnesses.


    Even Michelle said she didnt know who that person was. Xu Xin remembered he was an attendant of Song Kiyeol, the guildmaster of Taeguk Shield. But Song Kiyeol said he expelled that attendant. That was all Xu Xin knew.


    Theres something about that bastard, or Taeguk Shield. Its like our memories were fiddled with, or that we were caught in a mass illusion, because no one remembers him, spat Xu Xin.


    He had to find the culprit behind this outrage. Song Junghye took a sip of tea, noting the venomous glint in Xu Xins eyes. She then slowly continued speaking.


    He has a special ability called Cognitive Dissonance. It is a type of mental maniption ability.


    How do you know that?


    Because hes closely rted to Taeguk Shield.


    As I thought.


    Xu Xin had thought that person was in close contact with Taeguk Shield. He guessed the bastard wasnt an attendant, and his guess was right.


    He huffed in a rage. I will smash his knees, andter, Michelles knees as well, and make them both kneel before me.


    Yes, of course. I would like to help you in that endeavor, Mr. Xu Xin.


    Why do you want to help me?


    Because I want to defeat Taeguk Shield. And personally speaking, I truly loathe that bastard.


    A deal was established between the two. Xu Xin asked, Does his ss happen to be thief?


    Hes not a thief, but there is no doubt he has a thief ability.


    Song Junghye didnt know about Darongi, but she knew Kim Hyukjin had a thief ability.


    I lost an important quest item called the Compass, you see.


    As I thought, it was <em>him.</em> That bastard had stolen his precious, precious money. Xu Xin once again ground his teeth. I swear, Ill dunk him alive in a vat of salt.


    I would love nothing more. I think we are in agreement. In that case, how should we proceed? I intend on giving you my full support, Mr. Xu Xin.


    Song Junghyes eyes darkened.


    The best way would be to kill Kim Hyukjin inside a dungeon or a gate.


    Murder. It was fine, especially if the target was Kim Hyukjin. He wasnt a person, but an enemy to be eliminated.


    If you are willing to lend me your strength, Miss Song, I willmit arge number of Chinese yers to the cause.


    Then I will make it so you can y in Koreayou can forge an alliance with Blood and Iron Lion. I dont think itll be very difficult. Also, I will determine Kim Hyukjins current location and share it with you live.


    The Chinese billionaire, Xu Xin, and the guildmaster of Blood and Iron Lion, Song Junghye. The two put their heads together and schemed. Xu Xins hunting instincts writhed.


    Let us hunt the bastard, then.


    One dayter, Song Junghye determined Kim Hyukjins location. She headed towards the Tutorial Building in the luxury ck sedan her older brother had gifted her.


    Kim Hyukjin concealed himself afterwards, but he was seen going inside the Tutorial Building and hadnt been seening back out.


    The Tutorial Building. Thats where he is.


    Xu Xin and Song Junghye thought that would be where Kim Hyukjin would breathe hisst breath.


    * * *


    * * *


    Hyukjin left the Endless Sky.<blockquote>


    [Entering the Tutorial Building 2nd Floor.]</blockquote>


    yers usually didnte to the 2nd floor of the Tutorial Building. Nowadays, the only visitors to the floor were recently-awakened beginner yers popping in for a quick look. After all, this ce wasnt fully activated yet.


    But when Hyukjin entered, he saw quite a number of yers here.


    I cant tell what theyre saying.


    They were Chinese.


    Mm. Im not entirely sure, but theyre certainly not my friends.


    They werent attacking just yet, but there was something odd about this situation.


    I get the sense theyve locked down the esctor going from the 1st to the 2nd floor.


    Considering the factors, it was most likely a scheme cooked up by Song Junghye. When that thought urred to him, he was actually relieved.


    If theyre Chinese yers, I guess theyre Xu Xins subordinates.


    Xu Xin was the only Chinese person who really hated him.


    Song Junghye revealed my identity.


    If so, everything would make sense.


    Lets just see what theyre gonna do.


    After being around celestial monsters like the whalekin in the Endless Sky, these yers almost looked like a joke.


    Just then, he got a whisper.


    Hello. We met earlier, do you remember?


    Hyukjins Eye of Perception captured the location of the whisperer. Some distance away, near the wall at a corner, was a stealthed yer.


    A whisper?


    Whispers werent things just anyone could use. You either needed a whisper item or a whisper skill. Most yers who could send whispers were explorers.


    He heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [A gift from an anonymous sender has arrived.]


    [Whisper Marble has arrived.]</blockquote>


    He used it immediately, then whispered back.


    Yes, I do.


    She was Kang Somyi, the explorer who had seen through his Cognitive Dissonance and had a summary of Curious Explorer.


    If I remember correctly, your name is Kang Somyi.


    You even remembered my name, thats unexpected. Anyway, are you in danger right now?


    Im not sure. I think someone who dislikes me has set up a trap for me.


    But weirdly enough, they were only expressing their hostility towards him and not moving.


    Are you the type to have a lot of enemies?


    Not a lot, but a few.


    Who do you suspect is behind this?


    Song Junghye.


    Hyukjin watched Kang Somyis reaction. If she was on Song Junghyes side, there would be some change in her emotions, and Eye of Perception would capture that. However, he picked up no real reaction from her.


    Kang Somyi asked:


    Is there any way I can help?


    Why do you want to help me?


    I really didnt mean to, but I think I was the one who unintentionally sold out your info.


    Kang Somyi was the only yer who saw Hyukjin going up to the 2nd floor. A Blood and Iron Lion guild member had gone up to her and asked, Have you seen this person? We are urgently looking for him. We will give you amplepensation, and Kang Somyi told them that she had seen him going up to the 2nd floor.


    Thats all I said, but they gave me $5,000 for it.


    Upon thinking about it, she realized it was odd. They might not be at the level of Taeguk Shield, Blood and Iron Lion was still a major guild. Why were they looking for a single person? Instead of making her happy, the $5,000 made her suspicious.


    And then, a bunch of Chinese yers rushed in and started sealing off the esctor going up to the 2nd floor.


    I see.


    I think youre in this predicament because of me, so I want to help in some way.


    Theres not really much you can do. I think theres no avoiding a fight here, and you dont seem to be abat yer.


    Kang Somyi didnt deny it.


    Youre right. Im an explorer. Ive been observing those guys the whole time. I think I know what theyre trying to do.


    Hyukjin grew a little interested in Kang Somyi.


    What do you think that is?


    I think theyre trying to generate something.


    Generate?


    Before you came here, they nted mana crystals here and there. Using a special method.


    Hyukjin scanned the area with Observers Eye. He didnt see any mana crystals.


    Theyve been consumed.


    There were an infinite number of uses for mana crystals. They could be used to set up a barrier to hunt him, or activate a magic circle with a simr effect.


    Since theyre Chinese yers


    Hyukjin smirked. He got the gist of it now.


    Miss Kang. Do you sincerely want to help me?


    Yes. Im kinda wallowing in guilt right now.


    Then please leave and go to Guildmaster Song Kiyeol. Tell him whats going on here, and ask him to bring reporters with him, if possible.


    Is that all?


    You can get out of here, right?


    Yes. I got up here unseen, so I should be able to get down unnoticed as well.


    Kang Somyi was a far morepetent explorer than he thought. It was no exaggeration to say she was top tier at this point in time.


    Makes sense. She was able to see through my Cognitive Dissonance.


    This explorer appeared to have far highertent potential than what was previously known.


    Alright. Ill do that, then. Im off.


    Kang Somyi disappeared, and Hyukjin turned his gaze to the crowd with a shrug.


    Can anyone speak Korean here?


    He really needed to keep a few Trantion Marbles on him. Once he reached level 40, he would be able to buy them from the Item Shop, so he would ask Senia to give him a few.


    He got a response in Chinese, but he couldnt understand it. Hyukjin continued speaking. They couldnt understand what he was saying, but he was talking to the Guardians.


    Traces of mana crystals that have been nted around the room.


    He was sure the Guardians were curious about this situation. The Guardians watching in Senias channel didnt know what Kang Somyi had just told him.


    Hyukjin exined, Judging by the way the Chinese yers are positioned, the core must be that magician wearing the red robe.


    He checked the magicians name.<blockquote>


    Name: Lau Ding Xue</blockquote>


    He was a magician Hyukjin knewhis name was quite famous in China, and his reputation went beyond just a little fame.


    A lieutenant of the Demon King Army.


    Right after meeting the Demon King in the Endless Sky, Hyukjin ran into a lieutenant of the Demon King Army here.<blockquote>


    Summary: Trap Magician who Relishes Human Flesh</blockquote>


    Hyukjin already knew what kind of ability Lau Ding Xue possessed. He told the Guardians.


    Heid a circle in advance and waited for my arrival. Im absolutely sure hes set up a trap. Whats important is what kind of trap it is.


    Hyukjin took a step forward. The Chinese yers red at him, all of them holding their individual weapons.


    I think hes created a special field here and is trying to suck me in.


    If it was Lau Ding Xue


    Is he someone who can open gates?


    Hyukjin smiled.


    For example a gate like Mana Hell.


    That ability was one he already knew.

 Chapter 263

    Chapter 263


    Sitting in the office of the Blood and Iron Lion, the Chinese billionaire Xu Xin gestured to a round orb.


    We can watch the situation live through this crystal ball.


    He was no longer a yer, but he was a greater item connoisseur than anyone. One of his items, this crystal ball, reflected the situation on the D-Tower 2nd floor.


    Song Junghye stared at the ball, her eyes fixed on that hateful bastard, Kim Hyukjin.


    He doesnt seem to be panicking much.


    He was sure to have picked up on something being off, but he looked entirely unfazed, which bothered her.


    This is the end of the line of his bravado, crowed Xu Xin with confidence.


    Let us wait and see, Song Junghye replied.


    Xu Xins brows twitched.


    Song Junghye, I dont like you, either.


    None of these Koreans were much to his liking. He and Song Junghye were working together right now for mutual benefit, but one day, he would make her kneel and lick his feet just like the others. An intent that Song Junghye noticed.


    Dirty bastard.


    The gaze that raked her up and down did not escape her notice. Song Junghye actually disliked Xu Xin as much as he disliked her. In her eyes, he was just a fool with a lot of money. And she was already prepared for Xu Xins arrangements to fail.


    Xu Xin. You will never be able to beat Kim Hyukjin alone.


    As much as she hated Kim Hyukjin, she acknowledged his skills. No matter what fancy trap Xu Xin set up, he would not be able to erase Kim Hyukjin on his own.


    Your job is just to tire Kim Hyukjin out.


    But just then, the man reflected in the crystal ball began to speak.


    <em>Is he someone who can open gates?</em>


    <em>For example a gate like Mana Hell?</em>


    Xu Xin was holding a Trantion Marble, so he understood what Kim Hyukjin said.


    What?


    Mana Hell had never been brought to light before. To be more exact, everyone who had seen Mana Hell had perished, having be the gates sacrificialmbs.


    How does he know about Mana Hell?


    Something seemed to be going awry, but it was already toote to turn back. Mana Hell was already set in motion, and a gate would be generated. That gate would consume Kim Hyukjin.


    The crystal ball buzzed with static and noise before momentarily going dark, almost like a video yer losing electricity and fizzing out.


    Xu Xin wiped the sweat from his brow. Dont be rmed. It will turn back on soon.


    Yes, alright.


    Song Junghyes eyes remained fixed on the crystal ball. She had heard the words, too.


    Mana Hell?


    It seemed the trap Xu Xin had prepared was called Mana Hell, a name even she hadnt known. She was only told that a Chinese yer under Xu Xins employ had a certain ability, and that ability would be used to hunt Kim Hyukjin. But Kim Hyukjin seemed to know the name of the ability in question.


    Its not an empty bluff.


    She saw Kim Hyukjins smile. She was certain this was not a bluff. Junghye got up.


    Excuse me, I need to go to the bathroom.


    She headed towards the bathroom, and once she was inside, she took out her phone.


    Cancel the n.


    From the other side of the phone came the voice of her right arm, Kang Woongmin the Adamant.


    All of a sudden?


    Im afraid Xu Xins arrangements will be ineffective.


    Do we pull out all Blood and Iron Lion members?


    Yeah.


    The Poisoned Dagger Jung Sangchul was on the line as well. He said in a lowered voice,


    Are we giving up on assassinating Kim Hyukjin entirely?


    Honestly, he was hoping to hear a Yes, cancel it. Jung Sangchul didnt enjoy murder, and the opponent was Kim Hyukjin, the toughest foe there was.


    Song Junghye thought for a moment.


    Move ording to the situation. But our general stance will be to keep out of it.


    Understood. I will keep that in mind.


    Jung Sangchul lowered the phone. It was a little strange. They were working with China, and even had fairly reliable information that Kim Hyukjin was on the 2nd floor of the D-Tower. Even the name Song Junghye had given the operation was Project Hunt Kim Hyukjin. But now, they were suddenly scrapping the whole n, this far in?


    Whats going on?


    He didnt know the reason behind the decision. All he could do was do as he was told.


    * * *


    * * *


    Kim Hyukjin was very familiar with Mana Hell. It was an artificially generated gate that would suck in targets set by the caster.


    Almost like the Endless Skys mana hole.


    He had just experienced the mana hole in the Endless Sky. After surviving such a phenomenon, what was there to fear about a gate artificially created by a level 30 yer?


    Still, Lau Ding Xue was once an infamous lieutenant of the Demon King army, so Hyukjin was interested in taking a quick look.


    I need to look into it a bit.


    He wasnt calling the Demon King crazy, but why were all of his subordinates such scum of the earth? This one was a Trap Mage who Relishes Human Flesh, for Petes sake.


    Its weird.


    Hyukjin didnt think the Demon King he knew would use such scummy individuals as his subordinates.


    Its really weird.


    The Demon King was an unknown being who might be stronger than the whalekin. Why would such a person gather yers and form the Demon King Army? No matter how Hyukjin thought of it, it was strange.


    Is this supposed to suck me in?


    It felt like a cool breeze was blowing at his back. Lau Ding Xue stood a distance ahead, his expression showing utmost confidence in this little draft.


    Hyukjin slowly walked forward.


    Do you really think such a weak force can pull me in?


    Unfortunately, they couldntmunicate. If he knew this would happen, he would have bought a Trantion Marble in advance. As he ambled forward, Hyukjin asked, Senia, can you trante right now?


    Senia remained invisible. He only heard her voice.


    I apologize. I am currently in directmunication with Shobidobi, so I cannot trante.


    Got it.


    If they couldntmunicate, then it couldnt be helped. He just had to keep going like this. Hyukjin took a few more steps.


    Man, this is really shoddy.


    It was almost funny seeing how confident Lau Ding Xue was after making such a slipshod gate.


    If hes got eyes, shouldnt he be able to see that Im walking on my own?


    But it seemed this trap mage was intoxicated by conceit and hadnt even considered the thought. And that was the truth. Lau Ding Xue believed in his ability. He had thrown dozens of mana crystals into creating this gate. Devouring one measly yer was a shoo-in. The possibility of failure hadnt even urred to him, so he never once stopped to doubt.


    Kim Hyukjin looked at the purple crystal in front of him.


    If I touch this, Ill be sucked into the Mana Hell.


    He entered the Mana Hell,pletely rxed.<blockquote>


    [You have entered the artificial gate, Mana Hell.]</blockquote>


    It was dark, and only he and Lau Ding Xue were there. The other man said, You wont be able to move a single step here.


    Of course, Hyukjin didnt understand what was said. He only guessed the gist of it. Hyukjin wasnt at all interested in Lau Ding Xue, but the Guardians who were watching from above.


    From the Guardians point of view, that guy is the viin provoking them.


    That was how it was when you read a novel or watched a movie. Most viewers put themselves in the shoes of the protagonist. They got mad at the viins, the side characters, who harmed and hassled the main character.


    Later, this kind of content would be lumped into a single genre.


    It was called Uno Reverse content, wasnt it?


    In any case, it wasnt like he intentionally tried to make this content or scenario happen. He should be thankful that such good material was rolling his way. There were a lot of Guardians who enjoyed Uno Reverse content; there was definitely a demand for it.


    How can I cook this up nicely?


    Senia said she was talking to Shobidobi, her editor. Shobidobi himself might show uphe liked watching Hyukjins ying in person.


    First and foremost, I need to give him enough material to work with.


    No matter how much of an editing whiz Shobidobi might be, he couldnt create a proper video without sufficient footage. It was the same logic as getting one good photo out of a hundred. Whatever happened, he needed to get enough footage.


    Wouldve been great if I had a Trantion Marble.


    Maybe that thought showed on his face, because the next moment<blockquote>


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain gifts you a Trantion Marble.]


    [The Lady of the Scales gifts you a Trantion Marble.]


    [The Barrier of Blue Light gifts you a Trantion Marble.]


    [The White Hunter gifts you a Trantion Marble.]


    [The Whispering Devil gifts you a Trantion Marble.]</blockquote>


    He got 5 messages in one go, each of them bearing a Trantion Marble.<blockquote>


    [A gift from an anonymous sender has arrived.]</blockquote><blockquote>


    [A gift from an anonymous sender has arrived.]</blockquote>


    Other Guardians who hadnt made it into the first 5 sent gifts anonymously. They were all Trantion Marbles, and a whopping 32 of them. To his great delight, Hyukjin acquired 37 Trantion Marbles in total.


    Thank you, Lau Ding Xue.


    He used a Trantion Marble.


    What did you say? Say it again.


    Huhuhuhu. I said you wouldnt be able to take a single step here.


    Why not?


    This is a space dominated by me.


    Ah, that so? Hyukjin responded, wholly unimpressed. He already knew Mana Hell. Then whats going to happen to me?


    All your mana will be sucked out and you will die here. Lau Ding Xueughed, then licked his lips. And then, youll end up in my stomach.


    Hyukjin grimaced. A trap mage who relished human flesh. This man was a psycho for sure. Hyukjin took one step back.


    Dude, thats too disgusting.


    I see you are an insect who cannot understand the art of cuisine.


    Hyukjin took another few steps back. To Lau Ding Xue, Hyukjins expression must have appeared fearful, an act Hyukjin put up on purpose.


    Its futile to run away.


    Because this is a space dominated by you?


    Thats right.


    Hyukjin took another step back.


    This space will suck out all your mana. Now, anyst words?


    Can I say anything?


    Lau Ding Xueughed. Anything other than spare me.


    Isnt something weird here? Im still walking. Didnt you say I wouldnt be able to move?


    Lau Ding Xues smile froze. Come to think of it, Kim Hyukjin had been walking backwards. In this space, which he controlled. Mana Hell was set to allow no one other than him to move. Whats more, there was only one target Mana Hell needed to restrict!


    But Lau Ding Xue quickly recovered hisposure. Looks like you have some trivial skill.


    The undeniable proof was that Kim Hyukjin was only backing away and noting closer. Lau Ding failed to see that it was Kim Hyukjin trying to secure the minimum amount of footage for Shobidobi.


    Thats right, I do have a few trivial skills.


    It doesnt matter. You will be eaten by me here.


    That moment, Hyukjin sensed the creation of a ck hole so bad it could not even bepared to the mana hole in the Endless Sky.


    Welp.


    At this rate, he wouldnt even be able to scrape up enough footage. His opponent was too much of a beginner.


    Mm.


    It was like being told to add and subtract after just finishing twenty pages of calculus. He felt his mana being drained by this space, so weakly he wouldnt even notice if he wasnt focusing.


    It does indeed feel like my mana is getting sucked out.


    Huhu. Thats right.


    Drunk on his own strength and outstandingness, Lau Ding Xue was blinded by narcissism and left unable to view the situation objectively.


    Hes way too fucking dumb. How was someone like him a lieutenant of the Demon King Army?


    It was strange. There was something to uncover here.


    Um, remember how I said I have a few trivial skills? Hyukjin said.


    I remember.


    Have you ever heard of a trivial skill like this? Hyukjin took out Isabel. A trivial skill called sh Step, and...


    Hyukjin vanished, then appeared on Lau Ding Xues right side before the man could even react.


    ...a trivial skill called Beat em, Beat em, Beat em Harder?t

 Chapter 264

    Chapter 264


    A trivial skill called sh Step, Kim Hyukjin raised his sword. And a trivial skill called Beat em, Beat em, Beat em Harder?


    Lau Ding Xue screamed. GAHHH!


    <em>Crack!</em>


    His shin bone shattered, Lau Ding Xue fell to the floor, clutching his leg. But the speed at which Kim Hyukjin moved was faster than the speed at which Lau Ding Xue fell. As Lau Ding Xue crumpled, Hyukjin moved to the spot where the Chinese yer wouldnd. He put away his overly powerful artifact and kicked Lau Ding Xue in the side.


    Agh!


    Lau Ding Xue coughed violently, each cough causing a spike of agony.


    My ribs are broken.


    It felt like the fractured pieces were poking into his lungs.


    Hah hah! He gasped, struggling to draw breath.


    After just two hits, Lau Ding Xue was exhausted. Hyukjin shrugged.


    That was really easy.


    His ying had been a series of one difficult clear after another. Easy, intermission content like this was necessary from time to time, too. But at the same time, there were Guardians who would oppose beating up randoms for no reason.


    Moderation is always best.


    Even when beating someone up, it was best to do it with an appropriate justification.


    Whyd you do it? asked Hyukjin.


    Wh-What? Lau Ding Xue gasped from the ground, unable to get up.


    Why is a human eating another human?


    I-Ive never done anythUAGHH!


    Hyukjin gave him zero mercy. It was hard to judge whether this man was more evil than Seo Joohwan, the other Demon King Army lieutenant Hyukjin had sent to his death, but Lau Ding Xue was certainly no saint. Hyukjin pressed down on Lau Ding Xues chest with his right foot.


    You know, I hate liars the most.


    He slowly put more strength in his foot. Lau Ding Xue was struck with the terrible sensation of his chest caving in.


    Eu-Eughhh!


    He was scared. At this rate, all his ribs would break, and his heart would be crushed by that merciless foot.


    Yang Yang. You killed her.


    Lau Ding Xues eyes grew wide. Yang Yang, a girl in herte teens living in Jilin province, was the first girl Lau Ding Xue killed.


    H-H-H-How


    How do I know that?


    Hyukjin smirked.


    Man, this is EZPZ.


    A simple leading question was all it took.


    There are no secrets in the world.


    I-I-I was wrong!


    Hyukjin let up, and Lau Ding Xue swiftly went onto his knees, desperately rubbing his palms.


    I-If you let me live, Ill do anything.


    Who sent you?


    His forehead pressed to the ground, Lau Ding Xue considered how he should respond. Hyukjin crouched down.


    Forget trying any stunts.


    He didnt give Lau Ding Xue any time to think. Hyukjin used Mettle to pressure the other man, who promptly lost allposure and bbered everything truthfully.


    Bl-Blood and Iron Lions Guildmaster Song Junghye and Master Xu Xin.


    Really? So Song Junghye is Guildmaster, and Xu Xin is Master? That meant the trap mage was in Xu Xins employ. So Xu Xins behind this. Whats your rtionship with him?


    I-Im simply a hired mercenary.


    Mercenary, my ass. Youre a contract killer.


    Th-That is correct. Please, spare me. If you spare my life, Ill be a good person from now on, I swear!


    The reason Hyukjin knew about Yang Yang was simple. Hyukjin was a regressor, and the future Lau Ding Xue became a lieutenant of the Demon King Army. The Cannibal Trap Mage said the following:


    <em>I still cant forget my first prey, Yang Yang. That experience was ecstasy.</em>


    Hyukjin thought for a moment.


    But were Xu Xin and Lau Ding Xue connected?


    He sifted through his memories. It was rted to China and not Korea, so he didnt know that much. But he didnt remember anything about the two being connected.


    First of all, Xu Xin thoroughly hid the fact that he was a yer.


    Hyukjin didnt know why.


    And it was never revealed that Xu Xin was Lau Ding Xues employer.


    Lau Ding Xues sole ticket to infamy was the Demon King Army. There was nothing about him and Xu Xin, at least as far as Hyukjin could remember.


    You. Do you know the Demon King?


    Th-The Demon King?


    Lau Ding Xue wanted to blurt out that the person in front of him was a demon king, but he couldnt say that. He racked his brains, trying to recall anything about the term, but came up empty.


    I dont.


    What about Kang Sun-il?


    Its my first time hearing that name.


    Really?


    Lau Ding Xue was a lieutenant of the Demon King Army but didnt know the Demon King?


    Well, I guess its possible they havent met yet.


    It continued to strike him as odd. Would the Demon King Hyukjin met really have picked up trash like these guys and cobbled them into the Demon King Army?


    I dont think so.


    The more he thought about it, the stranger it became. It felt like secrets the world hadnt known were bubbling beneath the surface.


    Hyukjin took out Isabel, then swung without hesitation.


    GAHHHHH!


    Lau Ding Xues scream split the air as both of his arms flopped to the ground, severed at the shoulder. Even though no sword skills were used, the cuts were clean.


    Guess you wont be able to use Mana Hell ever again.


    The stronger the magician, the stronger a Mana Hell they could set up <em>if </em>they had arms.


    Oh, right. Curious about how I endured your Mana Hell?


    Lau Ding Xues face was ghostly whitehis body was in shock. He couldnt utter a single word, but that didnt matter. What Hyukjin was saying now wasnt meant for his ears, but the ears of the Guardians.


    I can turn all the mana around me into my own.


    Even if it wasnt the mana of a trap.


    Thanks to my innate ability, Assimtion.


    * * *


    Shobidobi, who was in invisible mode along with Senia, snipped loudly.


    <em>Snip! Snip! Snip!</em>


    But Senia. Doesnt Assimtion have a cooldown? I saw a cooldown in the footage I got from you.


    Focus on the y.


    Shobidobi resumed his snipping. Seeing as Senia didnt say anything about the cooldown, there was something more at y. For Shobidobi, that was fantastic. Because to an editor, that was foreshadowing material.


    <em>Snip! Snip! Snip!</em>


    Inspiration has struck!


    He really was inspired. This Kim Hyukjin was truly incredible. He had a knack for spinning the story along while keeping you hooked and curious, then answering your questions at the end in one satisfying swoop. And with just a few words, at that! It made Shobidobi think that Kim Hyukjin was a genius producer.


    <em>Snip! Snip! Snip!</em>


    I think I can get a great intro from this.


    The concept of editing was not yet fully established, but Shobidobi grasped the new art by instinct.


    What was this called again? He vaguely remembered there was a human term for this. Shobidobi mused, then cried out in realization. Ah!


    He remembered.


    I should be able to get a satisfying thumbnail here.


    * * *


    * * *


    Gwanghwamun D-Tower, 2F.


    There, the Chinese yers waited for Lau Ding Xue. They had used mana stones to erect a Mana Hell, so they thought all that was left to do was to collect Kim Hyukjins corpse.


    An unfamiliar voice shattered their wishful thoughts.


    No one cane up here because Blood and Iron Lion is blocking it off, right?


    The Chinese yers gaped in shock. The person who crashed to the ground with a wet squelch wasnt Kim Hyukjin, but Lau Ding Xue, now reduced to a bloody, half-dead mess.


    Hes not dead, so save him if you want.


    His life as a yer was over anyway. A trap mage who couldnt use their arms could no longer be considered one.


    Hell probably be killed by Xu Xin anyway.


    He decided not to waste energy worrying about that. The man was a cannibal who already had a lot of blood on his hands. He even tried to kill Hyukjin with Mana Hell. So despite knowing that Lau Ding Xue would be discarded by Xu Xin if he went back in this state, Hyukjin didnt pay it any heed.


    Im not big on pointless killing, said Hyukjin.


    The person who looked to be the most superior of the lot shouted, Did you think wed let you go after doing such a thing?


    Let me go? Even Mana Hell didnt work. What do you n on doing now?


    Sorry, but youll have to die here.


    You probably blocked this area off to do just that.


    Just in case Mana Hell failed.


    Song Junghye probably assigned forces of her own.


    If she was smart, she would have recalled her men. He would just have to wait and see what choice she made.


    If you try to kill me, Hyukjin began, pulling out Isabel. Then Ill have no choice but to kill you.


    He was utterly at ease. The Chinese yers in front of him were in their early to mid-level 30s. They werent exactly masters, but they werent beginners, either. And yet, they werent threatening in the least to Hyukjin. After meeting colossi like the Fire Giants and whalekin, these guys looked like little kids.


    The ten-odd Chinese yers surrounded Kim Hyukjin.


    So youve decided to fight me?


    Drop the act. Theres no doubt yourepletely exhausted.


    He was in tip top shape, much less exhausted.


    You guys are seriously the type to see what you wanna see and believe what you wanna believe, arent you?


    Holding Isabel, Hyukjin looked casually around.


    Its about time for them to show up.


    Kang Somyi had taken action earlier. Since he dragged things out long enough in the Mana Hell, Song Kiyeol must have gotten word, and the members of Giantgod would have mobilized.


    Hyukjin cocked his finger.


    Well,e at me then.


    It was exactly at that moment that the esctor leading to the 2nd floor was used. If someone came up despite Blood and Iron Lions blockade, then it could only be Taeguk Shield or Giantgod.


    A voice rang out.


    Whats going on right now, exactly? It was Shin Yeonseo. She whipped out Asura. What were you guys nning on doing, surrounding our boss like that?


    So Yoohyun cracked his neck. Hyungnim. Shall I punch the living daylights out of these guys?


    Is it time for the Jayangdong Fire Master to shine? Huhuhu.


    Choi Sung-gu was raring to go, his confidence boosted to the max in front of these obviously weaker people. He didnt hide in the back. Next to him, Jo Sunghyun cooly surveyed the area, and Kim Sunhwa summoned arge white shield.


    Who are all these people? she asked.


    Song Kiyeol didnt even prepare for battle. It was unofficial, but Koreas strongest forces were here. There was no need to summon his shield.


    Mr. Kim Hyukjin. Did you leave these people alive on purpose?


    Yes. Theres a lot to gain, after all.


    If he wanted them dead, he would have already ended them. But killing wasnt always everything.


    The mastermind is Xu Xin And... Hyukjin paused. This is also connected to Miss Song Junghye.


    ...


    She tried to kill me.


    Hyukjin stared hard at Song Kiyeol, his eyes clearly asking if the other man would protect his little sister even now. Song Kiyeol looked away.


    Junghye will need to be punished.


    She had crossed a forbidden line, a line she shouldnt have crossedshe had tried to murder someone in the Tutorial Building. That was unforgivable, no matter how much Song Kiyeol doted on his little sister.


    His lips curling into a smile, Hyukjin said, Thats true, but theres no physical proof that these people have any connection to Miss Song.


    ...What?


    It means theres nothing we can do this time.


    Do you mean that you will overlook it this time?


    Yes. The smile remained on Hyukjins face. I have a feeling things will develop even more if I let her be.


    The rice was still uncooked. Only by opening the rice cooker once each grain was a perfectly cooked, gleaming pearl could one produce the most delicious rice.


    For now, lets clean up shop.


    * * *


    Giantgod took action, their movements crisp. The guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, Song Kiyeol,mented in silence.


    The members of Giantgod are at least two, three times more skilled than Taeguk Shield.


    He once again personally confirmed that they were Koreas strongest force. They captured everyone alive.


    Ill leave taking care of these guys to Taeguk Shield. Its pointless to hand them over to the police anyway. I trust youll handle things nicely.


    ...Yes, understood.


    Hyukjin set off. He was d to see his guild members, but there was something else he had to do. He immediately went to see Song Kiyoung, who Hyukjin found sitting in his office.


    I heard the report. Xu Xin caused a mess?


    Yes. He tried to kill me.


    Thanks to all the reporters swarming the ce, Chinas been put in a pretty embarrassing position. Theyve drawn a clear line, saying that Xu Xins outburst has absolutely nothing to do with China. They fell right into someones trap.


    Even China could not protect Xu Xin, which put the billionaire into a very ufortable situation.


    Song Kiyeol continued. But from what Im told, the person who made that trap spared all the prey and turned them over to us.


    Thats because I heard negotiations with China are difficult these days.


    Is this meant to be a card to pressure Xu Xin with?


    Publicly, China drew a line between the country and Xu Xin, but pressuring Xu Xin could send ripples throughout China as well. Both Song Kiyoung and Kim Hyukjin were well aware of that.


    Think of it as a little gift from me.


    CEO Songughed heartily. Young man, do you have any wish to try your hand at being a Sungshin board member?


    I have little aptitude for being a sryman.


    Then how about bing my sessor? What about being a chaebol by profession?


    There are too many things to attend to as a chaebol, so no thanks.


    Song Kiyoung looked straight at Kim Hyukjin. What a fascinating, fascinating person.


    And now? Ive dly epted your gift for pressuring Xu Xin, but is that all?


    No, theres something else.


    Its more important, I assume?


    Song Kiyoungs expression grew serious. Kim Hyukjin gave a gift first, so his side needed to prepare a gift of equivalent value. That was how highly Song Kiyoung judged Kim Hyukjin.


    What is it?


    Hyukjins answer waspletely outside of CEO Songs expectations.


    I happen to have a bit of stock in a certain mercenarypany.

 Chapter 265

    Chapter 265


    CEO Song, hasnt there been some conflict with American yerstely?


    Since the conversation was previously about deals with China, that was where Song Kiyoungs attention was focused. He was somewhat caught off guard when the topic suddenly jumped to the US.


    How did he know that?


    Hardly anyone knew about this, not even his grandson Song Kiyeol. In interest of securing a stable supply of mana crystals, Sungshin was procuring them from a spot other than Boracay. To that end, a base was set up in the Maldives, on an ind with a Four Seasons Resort, a hotel from a world-ss chain.


    On the resort ind was a dungeon, one that produced a lot of white mana crystals.


    It was done in top secret.


    Taeguk Shield, Blood and Iron Lion, none of them knew about it. CEO Song believed there was no chance it was leaked from the inside.


    I heard he was a Precognitive Dreamer, but he definitely seems to have some kind of mysterious power.


    Meanwhile, Kim Hyukjin could tell from Song Kiyoungs reaction that his stab in the dark had struck true.


    A few hours ago, Hyukjin was contacted by the US sovereign Michelle. She said there was a conflict with Korean yers in the Maldives and asked if he knew them. At the time, he just said no. Apparently, their items and skills were pretty outstanding, so even Michelle was having a bit of trouble with them.


    Song Kiyoungs eyes shed, and he said, You just took a guess, didnt you?


    He was indeed very perceptive.


    Was it that noticeable?


    Haha. To think I fell for a wild guess. Ive really put my years to shame.


    Hyukjin smiled. Lets just chalk it up to me being perceptive.


    Well, alright. How did you know? I ask because Im truly curious.


    I was contacted by Michelle. She said shes been having some conflict with Korean yers.


    What I want to ask is, how did you link those yers to me? There should have been no indication whatsoever of us being connected. Did you see it with Precognitive Dream?


    Hyukjin smiled again. There arent many Korean yers who have been dispatched overseas, especially ones who have been sent with the specific goal of securing mana crystals.


    Everyone was busy ying in their own servers (countries). They were still beginner period yers. Normally, there was no need or reason to branch out into other servers.


    So its certainly strange that there are Korean yers out in the distant Maldives farming mana crystals.


    ...


    But Im told those yers are quite skilled. Skilled enough to give Michelle trouble.


    Of course, it wasnt the Michelle Divisions elites out therethose guys were thriving within the US borders.


    Michelles crew in the Maldives is still her secondary squad. The Korean yers going head to head with such a force to collect mana crystals instead of focusing on their own growth can only mean theyve been instructed by someone, or theres a reward bigger than their growth. One of the two.


    That seems a little inadequate to link them to me.


    There are a limited number of people in Korea who are in great need of mana crystals, Hyukjin exined.


    The world didnt know how to use mana crystals properly yet. But because Sungshin was Sungshin, they were pioneering the research to use mana crystals in pharmaceuticals, a move that was, in part, informed by the tip Hyukjin gavest time.


    Of them, there is one corporation that is already getting a steady supply of mana crystals from Boracay.


    And that was Sungshin.


    They say people in the industry know each other. You would think that yers from Sungshin would recognize a famous face, but they didnt know who Michelle was at all. Theyre yers who either suddenly acquired power or were raised in secret. Hyukjin stared at CEO Song. The only person who can satisfy all of these conditions is you, CEO Song.


    Hahaha. CEO Song neither denied nor confirmed. Instead, he asked, Its news to me that youre involved in a mercenarypany, but what does that have to do with me?


    I am in partnership with Michelle.


    With Michelle? CEO Songughed dryly with a stupefied expression. And thats why youvee to me? To tell me to withdraw my people in the Maldives?


    Yes, thats right.


    Song Kiyoung scoffed lightly.


    Its true that I value you and am paying attention to your infinite growth potential, but are you unaware that Im still far stronger than you?


    That was no empty boast. Song Kiyoung was someone standing behind the entire country. No matter how strong Hyukjin might be, he could not oppose all of South Korea. The institution that was the country was a massive system, one that an individual could not win against.


    I am aware.


    But what youre doing right now seems a bit like a threat to me.


    Theres no way I would do that. Kim Hyukjin took out a few mana crystals from his Inventory. These are yellow mana crystals. Theyre far higher in grade than white ones.


    Song Kiyoung picked up one of the crystals. His heart fluttered, and a rush of long-forgotten exhration coursed through him.


    Hes running me through a rollercoaster.


    It wasnt unpleasant. Rather, he felt as though he had met a worthy opponent, a feeling he hadnt enjoyed ever since he became the absolute powerhouse of Korea.


    And the reason hes doing that must be for the Guardians.


    The Guardians enjoyed stories with twists and turns.


    So you want to make a deal with me. Using these yellow mana crystals as a pretext.


    Yes. I will put up thirty of these yellow mana crystals.


    In exchange for my withdrawal from the Maldives?


    Yes.


    Thats a bit of a losing deal for me.


    Ive confirmed one of the effects of these mana crystals.


    What is the effect?


    Theyre exceptionally good at eliminating drunkenness. With just one, you can produce an incredible amount of hangover cure.


    That was a secret found by Sungshin not long after the discovery of yellow crystals. Hyukjin was using info they would obtain anyway as a trade condition.


    Last time, you came to me with a hair loss cure, and this time, its a hangover cure?


    Is this sufficient?


    It is.


    CEO Song Kiyoung nodded. But there was something he was curious about.


    Why are you making such a trade?


    Because Im in partnership with Michelle. Michellespany needs to grow in order for me to reap the profits as well.


    I dont think thats the whole of it.


    Hyukjin took a sip of the green tea on the table in front of him. CEO Song was definitely sharp-eyed. A little carelessness, and all his secrets would beid bare. Truly, life experience and years of business were not to be underestimated.


    CEO Song continued. In truth, even if you didnt take action yourself, Michelle could just deploy her primary squad and that would be that.


    Michelle is very busy with work in California, so shes unavable.


    And what about you?


    I am also very busy.


    That was true. He had to clear the Gardens by the Beach Dungeon in Singapore, as well as the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon that would soon make its debut. He also had to uncover the worlds secrets. In addition, he simply wanted to grow. He wanted to be stronger. There was truly a lot to do. There was much to do, but the most important of them all was still to live a happy life with the people he loved.


    I want to maintain a good rtionship with Michelle. Lets just leave it at that.


    That wasnt a lie, of course, but at least in this moment, it wasnt the whole truth.


    Actually its that my older sister wants to learn a bit from Michelles younger brother.


    Michael. He was a famous chef in the US.


    A prominent figure who will mark the turning of an epoch in the culinary world as a cooking-ss yer.


    Hyukjin using mana crystals and knowledge from the future to make a deal with Song Kiyoung was partly rted to ying, but it was also an investment he was making for his sister. He remembered his conversation with Ahyoung.


    <em>Guess so. Its not like I have any particr work experience or anything. Just some shabby kitchen assistant work.</em>


    <em>Whats that chefs name?</em>


    <em>Michael.</em>


    <em>Ah. Michael?</em>


    Back then, he resolved to get his sister the chance to at least meet Michael once. He couldnt force Michael to teach Ahyoung, but he could at least arrange a meeting between them.


    I want to give my sister a chance.


    That was the real motivation for this trade, but that possibility didnt even ur to CEO Song. His conjecture went in apletely different direction, more towards the business side.


    Can I take this to mean that Michelle is that important of a person to you?


    Yes.


    CEO Song took a sip of green tea.


    Looks like Ill need to consider the variable called Michelle a little more carefully when nning in the future.


    Even the great and mighty Song Kiyoung was unable to read Kim Hyukjins heart.


    * * *


    * * *


    Michelle was an extremely famous yer in the US. On top of her already enormous wealth, she solidified her position at the top as a sovereign and was considered a next-gen leader of the country.


    She went to see her little brother at a certain restaurant.


    Michael. I have a favor to ask.


    You have a favor? To ask of me?


    Michael stared at Michelle in amazement. His haughty sister never stooped to ask for favors. She was a mighty sovereign who staunchly insisted on doing everything on her own. That was how Michael saw his older sister.


    Go on a quick trip to Korea.


    To Korea? Why? I dont wanna. Im busy.


    Michael. Have I ever asked you for a favor before?


    No, never.


    Not once in his entire life. His amazing sister asking <em>him </em>for a favor was really a first, a phenomenon hed never once considered happening.


    Exactly. Indulge me in this favor, just once.


    Mm.


    Michael thought for a moment. What kind of grave matter might cause his sister to personally make such a request?


    Alright, Ill hear you out. What in the world would make you ask me for a favor?


    You just have to meet a person in Korea.


    A person?


    Yeah.


    Who is it?


    Someone who wants to learn cooking from you.


    Hah?


    Here he was, wondering what got Michelle asking so earnestly for a favorwas it some urgent matter concerning the countrys fate?and it turned out to be a trivial interview.


    Its not even that important. Why are you going so far?


    Would I ask you for a favor if it wasnt important?


    ... Michaelpsed into thought, then gave his response. Alright. Ill do it. Since its the first time youve been so insistent.


    Thanks. Ill give you the address.


    But if they want to learn cooking from me, shouldnt theye to me instead of meing to them?


    Theyre a VIP.


    But a VIP to you isnt a VIP to me.


    Michelle stared at Michael in silence. Honestly speaking, she had no defense to thatshe didnt want to say anything about Kim Hyukjin.


    Eh, whatever. Anyone youd call a VIP must be someone huge. To you, even the President of the United States is an ordinary chump. Alright, Ill go.


    Thanks.


    Thats the first thanks Ive heard from you.


    Because youve never done anything for me that would warrant a thanks.


    Scowling a little, Michael got up. Even if I want to, whats there to do for someone who already has it all?


    That was how Michelle was, in Michaels eyes. A person who didnt even give him the chance to do something that would warrant thanks. A person far ahead of him, despite their shared blood.


    Michael turned around and left, a small smile on his lips.


    * * *


    On the other side of the world, Kim Hyukjin returned home in an inexplicably good mood.


    By now, Noona should have gotten word.


    Michael would being to Korea. To their house, in fact. After meeting Ahyoung, he might take her on as a disciple. She had a chance, at least. He could already envision how happy she would be.


    Hyukjin reached up to his shoulder and scratched Darongis head.<blockquote>


    []</blockquote>


    Darongi was on his back, iling his stubby limbs in pleasure. Today was indeed a happy day.


    This is what you live for, Hyukjin thought as flopped onto his bed, intending on taking a quick rest. But something stopped him. Something was weird.


    Huh?


    The Yellow Charm that was always under his desk wasnt there. Instead, there was a Red Charm.


    Hyukjin jumped to his feet.

 Chapter 266

    Chapter 266


    Back when Hyukjin cleared the Yellow Charm Gate, he already knew about the Yellow Charm.


    <em>In some cases, the Yellow Charm can even bring luck.</em>


    At the time, it was dismissed as an unsubstantiated rumor floating around on the Inte. But Hyukjin knew it wasnt just a rumor, but a real thing.


    <em>Sometimes, the Yellow Charm turns into a Red Charm.</em>


    <em>That urs when the person who made the Yellow Charm is in danger.</em>


    Originally, the charms were just one of many rumors going around, something he hadnt paid much attention to before. But now


    <em>In the worst cases, blood will even seep from the Red Charm.</em>


    Hyukjin picked up the Red Charm.


    Theres no blood.


    Returning to the past was great, but there were too many oddities that bothered him. These charms, the Demon King, the unknown beings making Predator Trees, the people who said they werent yers being yers after all. Everything.


    How did someone find out about this charm and release the info on the Inte?


    Normally, information with this level of veracity would be confirmed as a fact and be widespread knowledge one way or another, but that wasnt even the case. He only remembered it as a rumor floating around on the Inte. It was only after he regressed that it struck him as odd.


    Calm down. ording to the info from the past, its not the worst case scenario.


    His heart thumped wildly, but heposed himself.


    Where is Ahyoung?


    He didnt have a location tracker on her, and she wasnt the type to always say where she was going.


    Hold on. Hyukjin remembered something. Didnt she say she was going on a quick trip to Yangpyeong around today?


    Ahyoung said there was a really famous bakery in Yangpyeong. As a major bread aficionado, she was going there to buy bread. Technically speaking, tasting that bread was a part of Ahyoungs job. Eating delicious food was, after all, a form of studying.


    2019. January 23rd.


    What happened in Yangpyeong then?


    I dont remember.


    It wasnt like he remembered every incident.


    Sunhwas not home, so


    Sunhwa usually preferred to stay home or go around eating tasty things with Yeonseo or Ahyoung. Either that, or she was ying.


    If she was going to y, she would have told me beforehand.


    When the guild members of Giantgod yed on their own, they usually told Hyukjin what kind of y they would be doing. It wasnt a rule Hyukjin set, but something they just automatically did.


    He didnt have any messages from Sunhwa.


    I think theyre both in Yangpyeong.


    If Sunhwa was with Ahyoung, that reassured him a bit. The best tank in Korea would be by Ahyoungs side.


    If Sunhwas not with her then its possible this wouldnt be a Red Charm, but a bleeding one.


    Sunhwa wasnt picking up, and neither was Ahyoung. Both of their phones were cut off. Hyukjin immediately called Jo Sunghyun.


    Did you get any summons from the government?


    I havent. Whats wrong?


    Theyre not saying anything is happening in Yangpyeong?


    No. They havent contacted me about anything.


    If arge-scale gate break or dungeon break had urred, the government would have taken swift action. But that wasnt the case, either. Since the charm still turned red despite Sunhwa being there, something was happening.


    Assemble in Yangpyeong.


    Now?


    Sensing the urgency in Hyukjins voice, Sunghyun didnt quibble.


    Should I call all the members of Giantgod?


    Please do.


    Where in Yangpyeong should we go?


    Ill message you that soon.


    Ill make a request to the government and go by helicopter.


    After hanging up, Hyukjin called Song Kiyeol, who immediately lent Hyukjin his personal helicopter. He even departed in it with Hyukjin.


    Song Kiyeol shouted over the whirring des, Whats going on?


    I think something has happened to my older sister.


    Ive summoned Taeguk Shield just in case. Itll take some time, but theyll be there soon. Everyone will being by helicopter.


    Thank you.


    That was something Song Kiyeol arranged independently, without Hyukjin asking for it. It was Kiyeols first time seeing his business partner look so harried. Hyukjin was taking calm, quick action, but he looked anxious.


    To think he would look this restless


    This was Kim Hyukjin, someone with a greater precognitive ability than Ham Sohyun. A person like him looking this restless had to mean that something big was happening in Yangpyeong, didnt it?


    Did monsters like the Fire Giants that appeared in the DMC show up again?


    Back then, they had the support of the Guardian Tower. But not this time.


    If monsters that strong show up again, what should I do?


    He had to run. There was no other way.


    Just what in the world is happening?


    * * *


    * * *


    Since they went by helicopter, they reached Yangpyeong quickly. After making a permittednding on a helipad, they got into the waiting vehicle.


    Beforeing here, Hyukjin had gone into Ahyoungs room, checked her Inte search history, and found Yangpyeongs famous pastry shop, Ludipan Patisserie.


    Were almost there.


    He extended his senses as much as possible, scanning his surroundings with Eye of Perception.


    I dont feel any monsters.


    Was it a gate, then?


    No gates, either.


    Nor were there any noticeable dungeons. The only monsters were a few neutral herbivorous rabbits hopping around on the street.


    Hyukjin opened the door to the patisserie, letting it swing shut behind him. The bell on top of the door jingled, and a cheerful wee greeted him.


    Wee in!


    The inside of the patisserie was quite peaceful. The sweet, appetizing smell of bread stimted Hyukjins nose, and a wide range of pastries that looked even more sweet than they smelled were lined up in the disy case.


    Standing next to Hyukjin, Song Kiyeol thought quizzically, What business does he have here?


    Around the tables were seated small clusters of people, many of them being couples. There were also groups of just women. There were three floors in total. As Kiyeol watched, Hyukjin ascended the stairs.


    The second floor was packed as well. There, Hyukjins gaze lingered on one person, a person he knew. He went up the stairs again, going up to the third floor, which was equally full.


    Mr. Kim Hyukjin. Whats going on?


    Im looking for my sisters.


    Hyukjin analyzed and took in everything with Observers Eye. And then, he found them.


    Huh? Oppa. What are you doing here?


    ...


    Sitting on the opposite side of Ahyoung, Sunhwa looked up from the bread she was cutting and stared at Hyukjin.


    Song Kiyeol was a little taken aback. From the way Hyukjin was acting, he thought some kind of national disaster had urred. He even heard that all of Giantgod wasing. But there was nothing out of ce.


    What kind of sick joke do you think youre ying? asked Kim Hyukjin, his voice low.


    Kim Sunhwa got up. Aw, shucks. Youre so perceptive that its really no fun, dude.


    A chill ran down Song Kiyeols spine. The patisserie was the picture of tranquility around them, but there was something <em>off </em>about this peace. He had the bizarre feeling that everything in front of him was a lie.


    How did you know? asked Kim Sunhwa.


    Ban Kimyung is on the 2nd floor.


    Ban Kimyung? Ah. So his name is Ban Kimyung?


    Hyukjin had noticed the strange sensation as soon as he heard the jingling of the bell whening in. He had gained the Endless Sky Physique, and through it, the ability Assimtion. That was the innate power to absorb all the mana around him and make it his, the special ability to breathe mana.


    So he could tell.


    The mana here is different from the outside.


    The entire interior of this patisserie was no different from a dungeon. With his heightened mana sense, he was able to assess the patisserie with a method other than Observers Eye or Eye of Perception. His body automatically knew. This was an artificially created space.


    I never thought an Intermediate Administrator would get this involved in the System.


    As you know, were a bit special.


    Hyukjin knew. The race his opponent belonged to were Intermediate Administrators who ate yersevil spirit caspers.


    That aside, what do you think of that fellow on the 2nd floor? Think hed make a good new vessel for me?


    You want to leave Sunhwa and go into Ban Kimyung?


    Thats why Im going through all this trouble.


    Hyukjin felt blood seep from the Red Charm in his hand.


    Blood ising out.


    He didnt know what the evil spirit inside Sunhwas body was nning on doing, but the situation was worsening.


    What is this trouble, exactly?


    This.


    Sunhwa reached out and grasped Kim Ahyoung by the neck. Ahyoung didnt resisther eyes were unfocused, like her soul had departed her body. She didnt even scream.<blockquote>


    [The Lady of the Scales is furious with the Intermediate Administrators excessive involvement.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain ridicules the Intermediate Administrators shameful conduct.]


    [The Barrier of Blue Light reproaches the Intermediate Administrator.]


    [The Nameless Observer observes.]</blockquote>


    Kim Sunhwa smirked.


    No matter what you say, great Guardians, what Im doing isnt illegal. Our people are permitted by the System to do this sort of thing.


    That seemed to be the truth. The Guardians might be furious and ridicule and reproach, but they were unable to directly interfere.


    Cold sweat trickled down Song Kiyeols back. He checked the precognitive note inside his Inventory.


    <em>A false, sweet fragrance shall permeate you.</em>


    <em>The prophecy of the true seer dothe to be.</em>


    The true seer. In the past, Song Kiyeol saw the same wording at Michelles auction, and he thought that it referred to Kim Hyukjin.


    A false, sweet fragrance Is that the bread I smelled earlier?


    Ham Sohyun said that whenever she had precognitive dreams about Kim Hyukjin, they were very explicit. And that was the trutha precognitive dream of this level really was direct and concrete.


    Then what does The prophecy of the true seer dothe to be mean?


    Just as Kiyeol thought that, Hyukjin spoke.


    You will die here.


    What? Kim Sunhwa broke into a loud cackle. You? Will kill <em>me</em>? How? She continued tough with amusement. Youre a mere level 39 yer. I get that youre a producer of unique content or whatever, but how do you n on killing me? Did you know? That I can make your head go boom with a few twists of my finger?


    ...


    I really never thought I would one day be threatened to be killed by a beginner period shrimp.


    Hyukjin broke his silence. If you could, you would have killed me in the time it took to say all that. Casper.


    It was a new word to Song Kiyeol. Casper.


    You have made direct involvement in my ying. I do understand that youre from a race thats allowed to do so.


    However, Intermediate Administrators were often called upon to be administrators. That was their set role. As such, an Intermediate Administrator jumping directly into ying was a vition of the Systems basic rules.


    But even so, bending the basic rules to participate in ying will have cost you a lot of strength.


    The casper had already consumed a great deal of strength.


    In order to devour Ban Kimyung on the 2nd floor.


    One of the future 8 Heroes, the unlucky Enforcer of Commandments who would be eaten by a devil casper. That was the person he had seen downstairs.


    The casper has taken a greater fancy to Ban Kimyung than Sunhwa.


    And he was going through all this in order to switch bodies.


    Before he transfers from Sunhwa to Ban Kimyung, he needs to inflict a major mental blow on Sunhwa.


    If left unstopped, he would have most likely controlled Sunhwas body to heavily injure or kill Ahyoung. Afterwards, while Sunhwa was reeling in shock, he would use some kind of sorcery to transfer to Ban Kimyung.


    More interesting is the fact that Ban Kimyung is level 1.


    He was a future member of the 8 Heroes and would grow into a top Ranker. And yet, his level was 1, and he was newly awakened, at that. Hyukjin recalled Ban Kimyungs summary.<blockquote>


    Summary: Newly Awakened Person Intending on Committing Suicide</blockquote>


    He wasnt awakened before, but was suddenly a yer now, in the patisserie a casper was expending a huge amount of strength to dominate.


    The casper forcefully awakened him into a yer.


    And that, too, would have cost a major chunk of the caspers energy. So right now, the casper was extremely fatigued.


    You messed with someone you shouldnt have.


    Hyukjin seized a once-in-a-lifetime chance.

 Chapter 267

    Chapter 267


    <suicide. Readers, please be advised.>>


    The casper was exhausted. He wasnt in his usual fighting form.


    This ce is an artificial space created by you.


    It was like a VR space, so to speak.


    And I might not know what you were nning on doing, but I know youll have controlled the minds of each and every person here.


    All in order to nab Ban Kimyung. The casper was sure to have been tempted by prey as delicious as Ban Kimyung. If Hyukjin hadnte here, the casper might have moved to Ban Kimyung, and there was no knowing what would have happened to Sunhwa and Ahyoung in the process.


    To do that, you would have needed a ton of mana.


    The casper used a lot of mana to distort this half-virtual space, and was using more to control it, a process that involved taxing mental maniption.


    Hyukjin breathed in.


    Even this mana will be my strength.


    Thanks to Assimtion, this mind-controlling mana was merely a type of nourishment for Kim Hyukjin. The very reason why the Demon King was able to ughter so many magicians in the Great Battle of Shanghai was because mana had no effect on the Demon King.


    But I cant rely purely on Assimtion.


    Assimtion was certainly an outstanding ability, but if the opponent was on a higher level than him, it could actually be dangerous to use. Adding two liters of water to a one liter container would make it overflow.


    Ill aim to let this energy flow naturally past me.


    Hyukjin decided to not use this mana. All his preparations wereplete.


    Kim Sunhwa spoke with a smirk. Really, what makes you so damn confident? Her eyes turned red. Im still in your little sisters body. If you want to kill me, youll have to kill her.


    ...


    And you see, I really dont like you.


    ...


    So Illmit my full power to tearing you into a million pieces.


    Caspers were astral beings. He was saying he would make use of Kim Sunhwas body.


    Come on then, have a good fight with your little sister.


    Arge, white shield formed at Sunhwas right arm.


    * * *


    * * *


    On the 2nd floor.


    Ban Kimyung was shocked by the notice he heard.


    Ive be a yer?


    You could earn a lot of money if you became a yer. He knew the productsing out of dungeons and gates were being sold for extremely high prices.


    So suddenly?


    In fact, Ban Kimyung had decided to end his own life. He was in this shop because he had decided to travel a little before dying, to go on the first trip of his life. He heard rich people went to ces like Switzend for suicide trips, but Ban Kimyung didnt have the money to do that.


    But something was weird.


    Im happy, but Im not happy.


    The feeling was hard to describeit was as if his feelings were far, far away, like his brain and body were separated. His mind felt hazy, as if he were drugged by anesthetics.


    Strange. I also feel a bit dizzy.


    Actually, it didnt matter if he was dizzy or not. He had resolved to kill himself, anyway.


    Where did my life go wrong?


    Even if he was a yer now, even if he awakened, would his life really change?


    He heard the first yers were already over level 30 and nearing 40, so what could he possibly achieve by awakening now?


    Depressing and vexing memories surged to his mind.


    <em>You, a singer? Forget it! Fucking idiot.</em>


    <em>Go out and earn some money instead.</em>


    <em>Theres no booze left!</em>


    <em>Money! Go get money for booze, shithead!</em>


    He was abused by his father since childhood. Ban Kimyung wanted to be a singer. But that dream crumbled in front of the harsh reality that was his life. In order to earn money to fund his fathers alcoholism, he was forced to do part-time jobs since middle school.


    Like someone was controlling his mind, the unpleasant memories he was doing his best to forget kept floating to the surface.


    <em>Okay. Were friends, after all.</em>


    The one and only friend he thought he had, Kang-sik, borrowed $10,000 from him, saying it was a real emergency.


    That was the money Kimyung had saved up from age 20 to 29. Because he was unable to abandon the father he had the misfortune of sharing blood with, his father who became ill with alcohol-rted dementia, he couldnt even save up much.


    And Kang-sik fucking disappeared.


    $10,000. Even though it was a huge amount of money for Kimyung, he didnt think it was enough to lose a friend over. He was sad about losing the money hed earned for nine years, but it was the thought that he lost his only friend over that sum that drove Kimyung to suicide.


    Ah. My life.


    Even though a new path had opened up before him, it felt toote. The only thing hed learned from a young age was working part-time.


    What use is it for someone like me to stay alive?


    Actually, he had seen and felt a lot while traveling. He saw things he hadnt been able to see, and met people he hadnt been able to know, and found out that there were more beautiful sights in this world than he imagined. As a result, his desire to live had been flickering back.


    I should just die.


    But since entering this patisserie, his mind kept getting flooded with negative thoughts. It was like someone was whispering, Yes, someone like you should just die, like a terrible auditory hallucination.


    Yeah. Lets just end it.


    Right when he thought that, he heard a loud crash.


    Huh? Kimyung snapped back to his senses. What was I thinking just now?


    He couldnt remember. He had the impression hed been drowning in depressing and irritating thoughts, but it felt like he had woken from a dream that hed been having for a long, long time.


    Ban Kimyung had no idea that the reason he was able to break away from the mental assault was because Kim Hyukjin had confronted the casper on the 3rd floor. Kim Hyukjin diverted the caspers attention, weakening the evil spirits domination over other areas.


    The variables grew even further. A loud cry split the air.


    Boss!


    It was a womans voice. Ban Kimyung turned his head and was startled when he saw who it was.


    Shin Yeonseo?


    The Smiling Swordsman Shin Yeonseo who was so famous was running in.


    The Tutorial Ender?


    Even So Yoohyun was there.


    The Jo Sunghyun and Choi Sung-gu Wombbo?


    A bunch of famous people came dashing in, all at once. They ran up to the 3rd floor, where Hyukjin greeted them with a grin.


    Youre here.


    Whats happening? Whats wrong with Sunhwa? Why are her eyes red?


    The current Sunhwa isnt the real Sunhwa.


    Then what is she?


    Itll take too long to exin. For now, we need to fight Sunhwa.


    You crazy? How are we supposed to fight such a cute kid?


    Even as she said that, Yeonseo pulled out her sword. Simrly, even though So Yoohyun was bewildered and wondering what in the world was happening, he also clenched his fists, believing that his hyungnim was in the right.


    I dont know whats going on, but whatever my hyungnim says, goes!


    Jo Sunghyun and Choi Sung-gu also drew forth their mana.


    Huhuhu, chuckled Kim Sunhwa. You human insects sure are fearless.


    Hyukjin stared silently at Sunhwa. Controlling her was an Intermediate Administrator. At this point in time, there were no yers who could defeat an Intermediate Administrator.


    Youve all yed a lot with Sunhwa, so you should know, Hyukjin said.


    Sunhwa possessed a truly sturdy body.


    You need to attack without mercy.


    He was saying the words to his teammates, but they were also words for himself. Half-hearted attacks wouldnt get through her defense. Such an attempt would only invite a counterattack.


    The enemy is a mental maniption Intermediate Administrator. The moment he sees an opening, hell burrow into your mind. Steel yourselves.


    If Sunhwas body is weakened, will he also be weakened? asked Sunghyun.


    Yes.


    In addition, Song Kiyeol the Taeguk Shield took up the tank role for their side.


    I will handle the defense, Song Kiyeol said, stepping forward.


    Your heart must not waver. The current Sunhwa is 100% an enemy.


    Song Kiyeol knew. He knew that Kim Hyukjin was saying those words to himself. So he made a suggestion.


    Mr. Kim Hyukjin, you can stay back and watch.


    ...


    With our current forces, I think its worth a shot. If its as you say, the enemy is extremely worn out.


    ...


    If it bes really dangerous at any point, you can jump in then. If, by some one in a million chance, he ends up possessing you, things will be really troublesome.


    After a moment of silence, Hyukjin responded.


    Thank you.


    He stepped back, intending on aiming for the perfect chance to strike. Giantgod and Song Kiyeol surged forward as one team, surrounding Kim Sunhwa and pelting her with their attacks.


    Song Kiyeol took out and raised his shield, blocking Sunhwas elbow jab.


    A resounding ng rang out. Sunhwas elbow was a little bloodied, but the wound quickly recovered.


    I never thought Id be fighting with an Intermediate Administrator one day, thought Song Kiyeol.


    For mankind, Intermediate Administrators were pretty much cmities, higher beings humanity could do nothing against. And yet, he was fighting one such being. So many unimaginable things seemed to happen when he was with Kim Hyukjin.


    Having be a third party, Hyukjin observed the situation.


    With the caspers strength, Sunhwa and the rest of the party are equally matched.


    It came down to who would tire first, who had the better luck. But thankfully, they had a fairly skilled tank in the form of Song Kiyeol on their side.


    The casper must have read the situation, too.


    What would he do, if he were the casper? What choice would he make? If he were the casper, what picture would he draw?


    I wouldnt keep fighting like this.


    The casper would find some casper-like way to break through.


    Even now, he hasnt given up his control over the entire patisserie.


    He was still exerting his influence over the patisserie, though his control was weakened.


    So Yoohyun folded at the waist with a violent cough. Sunhwas fist hadnded a direct hit. Yoohyun rapidly jumped back, and Choi Sung-gu kept Sunhwa from pursuing with ash of his Fire Whip.


    The fight came to a brief standstill. The members of Giantgod and Song Kiyeol seemed a little tired, but Kim Sunhwa was more rxed than ever.


    Ive been observing you guys for a long time, she crowed. So I can read your movements in advance.


    The casper wasnt just bluffing. Hyukjin could feel the casper strengthening his dominance over the 2nd floor while fighting them, meaning he had some measure of leisure.


    But if he really had energy to spare, he would have killed us all.


    Because he couldnt do that, the casper was resorting to this little show.


    In the end, hes gonna go for Ban Kimyung.


    He would leave Sunhwas body and go into Ban Kimyung. Then, he would use some way to flee the scene.


    Helle back to kill us in the future.


    He was too great a threat. They had to kill him here. Hyukjin took a step forward.


    I can see what youre going for so clearly that I cant stay back.


    Hyukjin took out his sword, the transcendent artifact Isabel. Kim Sunhwa tensed a little.


    And then, she spoke with Sunhwas voice, Sunhwas face.


    Oppa. Are you going to kill me?


    ...


    The only thing I want is to live happily with you, Unnie, and Mom


    At the same time, Hyukjin knew. Someone wasing up the stairs from the second floor, step by step. He didnt miss that chance.


    Ill cut through.


    He clenched his teeth, then swung Isabel with all his might at his sister. Isabel reached Sunhwas neck.


    <em>Schwing!</em>


    And cut something.

 Chapter 268

    Chapter 268


    Ill use sword ki.


    Kim Hyukjins unique innate energy based on Athenaes pure me was under his authority, and was an ability he could control.


    Ill cut the casper without harming Sunhwa.


    That would be impossible with a physical sword, but it was achievable with sword ki, an energy. Despite having never tried it before, Hyukjin was certain of it.


    Its theoretically possible.


    With thebined effect of his Willpower stat that was impossibly high for the beginner period and his own keen focus, it was as though time were flowing like honey. To Hyukjin, a span of less than one second felt like an eternity.


    Even though it''ll be impossible topletely avoid harming Sunhwa


    That mightve been possible if his sword ki proficiency were much higher, but not now.


    ...thankfully, Sunhwas an outstanding tank.


    Most attacks wouldnt even leave a scratch on her sturdy body.


    I will trust.


    In his ability, and Sunhwas. There could be no doubt, not even for a second. There would be no better opportunity than this to kill the casper and thus eliminate a nebulous future variable. He hadnded this serendipitous opportunity because of two unlikely factors, Ban Kimyung and the Yellow Charm.


    I wont let this chance slip.


    It was risky. Sunhwa could get hurt. But he had to do this. Hyukjin chose to sh the casper.


    <em>Schwing!</em>


    He felt something part at his de. Blood flowed from Sunhwas neck. To Hyukjins relief, she wasnt gravely injured. She was bleeding a little, but the wound would soon heal.


    I cut something.


    Hyukjin was sure that he cut something other than Sunhwas neck.


    Sunhwa crumpled to the groundthe casper had left her body.


    Hyukjin wanted to catch her, but there was no time. Yeonseo jumped forward to catch his unconscious sister in his stead. The members of Giantgod didnt doubt Hyukjins actionsthey only watched the situation with attentive eyes, ready to do what was needed of them, something Hyukjin was grateful for.


    He couldnt spare a single moment.


    Theres only one ce for him to go.


    Hyukjin thought it was possible that the casper believed Hyukjin would never be able to cut his little sister, an assumption that made the casper careless. And Hyukjin was right. The casper grit his teeth.


    Crazy bastard. He really swung at his precious little sister?


    The casper fled Sunhwas body in a panic. This wasnt what he had envisioned. But the murderous intent in Kim Hyukjins eyes was real, and if he had stayed put, he would have been heavily injured in Sunhwas body. He didnt want that.


    Theres an even better body for me over there!


    Truth be told, Kim Sunhwa wasnt the best body for the casper. Her body itself was amazing, but she was a little troublesome to control as he wished. Her traumatized mind was mostly healed, and her brother Kim Hyukjin took too prominent a position in her consciousness. Because Kim Sunhwa possessed infinite trust and faith in her brother, it wasnt easy to make her waver or assume control over her body when they were together.


    This suckers the perfect prey for me.


    So the casper made a tough call. He hadnt expected this fiasco, but all he had to do was seize the new guys body and flee.


    And not long from now, I will rip you to pieces, Kim Hyukjin.


    He never thought an Intermediate Administrator like himself would be forced into such dire straits. Caspers were astral beings, and without a body, it was difficult to do any real harm to a yer. In exchange, the moment they acquired the perfect body, they would be even stronger than regr Intermediate Administrators.


    I see it.


    Ban Kimyung, and the mans dark, negative mind. That was a man with a weak soul ripe for the taking.


    I need to go in quickly.


    But unawares to the casper, his decision was one Hyukjin had foreseen.


    * * *


    * * *


    Even before Hyukjin wrapped Isabel in sword ki and shed Sunhwa, he predicted how things would go and directed the scene ordingly. If the casper stayed in Sunhwas body, he might be heavily injured or even die, so of course he would leave.


    <em>If </em>I sh Sunhwa wholeheartedly.


    That was the hardest part. But as long as Hyukjin could do that, he was sure that the casper would move exactly as he predicted.


    Hyukjins eyes swiveled to the ce he heard footsteps from.


    Hell move quickly to find a new body.


    There was no time to pull back Isabelevery millisecond was precious. He dropped her on the ground, upon which Darongi scampered over to stow her in his Inventory.


    In the meantime, Hyukjin took out a bow, a beginner wooden bow purchasable in the Beginner Shop. There was no time for fancy techniques. As one would expect from a bow meant for beginners, it was light and had fast attack speed; it was a bow Hyukjin could use very easily.


    His Divine Bow Physique body took aim at the casper.


    I cant do it with just a physical attack.


    It would probably go straight through the casper.


    Wrap sword ki around the arrow.


    He had never done it before, but it should be possible. Because not only did Hyukjin have the Divine Sword Physique, but he also had the Divine Bow Physique.


    I can do it.


    His concentration honed to the limit, he fired at the casper. The arrow went whistling towards the caspers hazy, indistinct back.


    The hawk-eyed Jo Sunghyun quickly followed up with wind magic. Wind magic might be less destructive than fire magic, but it was faster and more urate. He didnt even pause to recite the spell incantation aloud. A wind arrow shot into the caspers back. Because it had been cast so quickly, it didnt deal much damage.


    The casper continued moving towards Ban Kimyung undeterred. Hyukjin drew his bowstring again.


    My target is Ban Kimyung.


    If the casper managed to seize a perfectly intact body, he would definitely flee using advanced magic like Warp.


    Youve made a mistake by not fleeing right now.


    If the casper had taken this chance to flee, Hyukjin probably wouldnt have had another peaceful night in his life. He would have had to fear for the constant threat of a vindictive caspers revenge. But the casper was unable to give Ban Kimyung up, the perfect body in front of him.


    Hyukjin pulled and released the bowstring in quick session. He had observed and mimicked the movements of Hyun Junghwa before. Even though he couldnt use Consecutive Rapidfire as a skill, he could produce an imitation that nearly matched it.


    The casper panicked upon seeing the four arrows shot almost simultaneously whistling towards him.


    What?!


    He had already taken two arrows to the back. He was in a great deal of pain, so when he sensed the arrows shooting towards him, he flinched. It was just a sliver of a second, but that flinch caused a moment of dy.


    But to his surprise, Kim Hyukjins arrows failed to deal damage to the casper.


    They went through me?


    They were just ordinary arrows, not ones imbued with Hyukjins sword ki. The casper realized at once that Kim Hyukjin had intentionally rigged the first arrow with sword ki exactly for this intent.


    The intent of eliciting a flinch from the casper, thus slowing him down and allowing the arrows to strike the real target, Ban Kimyung.


    <em>Thump. Thump. Thump. Thump.</em>


    The arrows embedded themselves in four different ces: both shoulders and both thighs.


    GAHHHHH! screamed Ban Kimyung, falling to the ground. Eu-Euagh!


    Ban Kimyung was a level 1 yer who had just awakened. Even though Hyukjin avoided hitting any vital points, his attack was dangerously powerful and caused Ban Kimyung indescribable agony. Pain, pain the likes of which hed never felt in his entire life. But ironically, the terrible sensation of sharp des piercing his flesh and nerves made Ban Kimyung feel that he was alive.


    His mind was shocked to crystal rity.


    What in the world is going on?


    It felt as though hed been floating along in a dream. Amidst the terrible pain, he began to see the world anew.


    Will I die?


    He could see blood flowing out. His blood. He couldnt move his arms or legs. It was like his body was broken. He couldnt even speak, the pain was too great.


    It might be better to just die like this.


    That was the thought that ran through his mind, but something was odd.


    No.


    It was really strange. The moment death was upon him, a peculiar thought awakened within him.


    I want to live.


    He decided to die, enjoyed his final vacation, and thought it would be okay to die now. And yet, when his time of death was really upon him, he wanted to live. He wanted to live so desperately that he found himself wondering if humans were always this fickle.


    Slumped on the ground, Ban Kimyung looked at the people in front of him.


    No way is that person <em>the </em>Song Kiyeol?


    He was one of Koreas most famous tanks.


    Huh? Come to think of it


    He remembered seeing some people barge in earlier.


    Im sure I saw them earlier? Why does it feel like Im seeing them for the first time?


    That man with the huge body was the Tutorial Ender. Kimyung definitely saw him earlier, but it was like he was seeing him anew, like he was a different person than he was earlier. As if he had been possessed by something.


    Urya!


    When Ban Kimyungs body was greatly injured, the casper finally realized the situation he was in. Judging that fleeing this ce right now was the best move, he relinquished his dominance over the patisserie.


    And So Yoohyun, seizing the moment the casper took to retract all his power, narrowed the gap between him and the casper in an instant.


    I!


    So Yoohyuns fists glowed with faint fist ki. It wasnt as advanced an energy as Hyukjins sword ki, but it was enough to deal damage to an astral.


    He struck out.


    Will also!


    He leapt onto the casper, straddling him as best he could.


    y a part!


    After crushing the casper with his enormous bulk, Yoohyun squeezed the caspers neck between his massive biceps, strangling his foe from behind.


    In front of Hyungnim! An active! Part!


    He squeezed with all his strength. As a result, the casperpletely lost his chance to escape.


    These lowly animals!


    Normally, these scum wouldnt even be able to meet his eyes. If he werent so tired right now, he would have made all their heads explode.


    Damn humans


    Tired he might be, but he was still an Intermediate Administrator. The casper flung off his assant with a burst of strength, sending the bulky man flying across the room.


    Gugh!


    It was like So Yoohyun was sent flying by a powerful gust. Jo Sunghyun raised a wind of his own to cushion his teammates body, but he couldnt support all of Yoohyuns weight.


    <em>BAM!</em>


    Yoohyun crashed into the wall, sending cracks splintering across the surface.


    The casper believed that was his chance to run, thinking his foes would hesitate a little. It was good that he overextended himself just now, he thought.


    Until he heard Kim Hyukjin speak.


    If you were a weak existence like us


    Raiding monsters more powerful than yourself and cracking difficult scenarios and quests required extensive use of ones brain, and you would gain a lot of experience in the process. But that didnt apply to the casper. He was an Intermediate Administrator who didnt directly y. Book smarts were different from experiencing something yourself.


    Choi Sung-gus me Whip came down with a crack. The fire magician knew exactly what he had to do. He couldnt react quickly and promptly like Jo Sunghyunthat was Sunghyuns job. Instead, Sung-gu prepared a spell with slightly greater destructive force, lying in wait to strike if the chance arose.


    Sung-gus me Whip entangled the casper, burning bright. Hyukjin continued.


    ...you wouldnt have expended so much strength just now.


    The casper was unable to flee. He was already too exhausted. Simply resisting Sung-gus mes was a monumental task.


    And you wouldnt have forgotten the fact that we are teammates who have worked together for a long time.


    Kim Hyukjin used sh Step. This was it. This was his chance. As expected of his long-time guild members, each of them carried out their roles surely and precisely.


    All for this moment.


    Ultimately, a major technique and a great deal of power were needed topletely wipe out the casper. Hyukjins teammates bought him time and opportunity for exactly that.


    Wrapped in me Whip, the casper iled on the ground.


    Y-You son of a bitch! Fuck off!


    Having received Isabel from Darongi, Kim Hyukjin jumped onto the caspers body. Sung-gus me Whip had little effect on Hyukjin. Though it was hot, it wasnt unbearably so. He squeezed the casper tightly with his legs.


    Then, he raised Isabel in a reverse grip.


    Farewell.


    Here and now, he would eliminate a variable. Hyukjin decided to bring out the strongest technique he was capable of. Song Kiyeol was watching, but this wasnt the time to be worrying about that.


    Isabels de began to burn with ck mes.

 Chapter 269

    Chapter 269


    <suicide. Readers, please be advised.>>


    Very quietly, Kim Hyukjin recited an incantation.


    He rattled off the words, having prepared them in his heart in advance. It was the same incantation as when he first created the Temporary ckfire Bow. The final incantation Ahn Seohye had uttered while crying tears of blood.<blockquote>


    [You who has killing intent.]


    [Imand thee. Return to thy eternal slumber.]</blockquote>


    The same notice as back then was triggered.<blockquote>


    [You have partially seeded in uttering the Will Incantation.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjins body began to shimmer with red mana. He was sure of it.


    Its the same as before.


    He had created a ckfire Bow with the Ink Bow as a base. This time, Hyukjin possessed the Divine Sword Physique, and he used Isabel as a base to draw forth a new ability.<blockquote>


    [Confirming the presence of a physique imprinted with the Tome of the Divine Sword Physique.]


    [Perceiving powerful me energy imprinted within the Divine Sword Physique.]</blockquote>


    And one more.<blockquote>


    [Confirming the presence of a Swords Pact.]</blockquote>


    When he made the ckfire Bow, the rted factor was the mana wavelength of the ckfire Bow engraved in his body. This time, it was the Swords Pact that came into effect. Hyukjin instinctively realized that the Swords Pact was far higher in grade than the ckfire Bows mana wavelength.<blockquote>


    [Oveying the Divine Sword Physiques mana on Isabel.]


    [Generating a temporary Heavenly Sword.]</blockquote>


    This is a more advanced ability.<blockquote>


    [The Heavenly Swords base item is Isabel.]</blockquote>


    zing with ck mes, Isabel plunged into the caspers back. Hyukjin felt all the energy instantly being siphoned from his body.


    Ngh.


    He nearly cked out. Hyukjin used Endless Sky Physique, his new trait, to desperately absorb surrounding mana. Three of the Yellow Mana Crystals in his Inventory instantly disappeared, and as a result, Hyukjin was able to maintain consciousness.


    His eyes could see nothing, like the world had been swallowed in darkness. And when he opened his eyes, the casper was gone.<blockquote>


    [The Intermediate Administrator Casper has beenpletely obliterated.]</blockquote>


    The next instant, the world turned gray. A Pause had taken effect. Hyukjin looked around.


    Senia?


    He couldnt see her.


    It wasnt triggered by Senia.


    And it wasnt a Guardian, either. That could only mean it was the System. The System itself had triggered a Pause, but since Senia was nowhere to be found, and no exnation was given


    Shes been urgently summoned to who knows where to exin the situation.


    In cases like this, you simply had to wait. After pacing for a while, Hyukjin sat down, immersing himself in thought.


    I killed the casper.


    Normally, the System would use the term hunt, but perhaps because a being on the scale of an Intermediate Administrator had been killed, the wording waspletely obliterated.


    One threat to Sunhwa has disappeared.


    He was relieved. He had been intending on building up his strength over many, many years to eradicate the casper, but to his surprise, that day was today. He was lucky.


    If not for Noonas charm


    Just thinking about it made him shudder. Either Sunhwa or Ahyoung might have been gravely injured or even killed. There was no knowing what the casper would have done to extract himself from Sunhwas body.


    What a relief.


    It was really, truly, a relief. Hyukjins eyes moved to Ban Kimyung, who had been greatly injured by Hyukjins arrows. He ced a 10-piece Healing Potion set next to the man.


    The Enforcer of Commandments, Ban Kimyung.


    He fell into thought. Ban Kimyung. One of the 8 Heroes of his previous life.


    Hm?


    Something was weird. If he wasnt just imagining it Ban Kimyungs body had just moved, ever so minutely.


    Even though the Systems Pause is in effect.


    He was resisting that Pause authority ever so slightly. The Enforcer of Commandments Ban Kimyung. A level 1 yer. Of course, he couldnt <em>really </em>move, but the fact that he was resisting it even a little was astonishing.


    It cant just be Ban Kimyung, but the power of a System setting.


    With every setting was another setting that opposed and bnced it. This battle between settings was something he had already experienced many times. It seemed Ban Kimyung had some kind of setting within him.


    * * *


    * * *


    At longst, Senia appeared.


    yer Kim Hyukjin.


    Were you urgently summoned somewhere?


    I must inform you that my channel is currently closed.


    That so?


    He didnt think there was much reason to close it, but he epted it. Recording the footage and having Shobidobi edit it wasnt too bad an idea, either.


    yer Kim Hyukjin has killed an Intermediate Administrator. Do you acknowledge that?


    Yeah.


    But what you did wasnt a normal killing, butplete annihtion.


    Are they different?


    They are.


    Senias expression was as serious as ever.


    How do they differ?


    A normal yer cannot obliterate an Intermediate Administrator.


    But I did.


    That is why I was summoned. Senias wings fluttered. It has been decided that yer Kim Hyukjin is not a normal yer.


    If Im not a normal yer, then what am I?


    An Irregr.


    Irregr?


    Didnt Irregr refer to people like CEO Song, who awakened his special powers long after his talent tes closed?


    Yes. I believe there is an upper-grade setting that I cannot confirm with my jurisdiction at y.


    Whats an upper-grade setting?


    A setting that does not exist within the current System. For example, something like regression.


    Senias eyes narrowed. An rm bell went off in Hyukjins mind.


    A trap from the System.


    No matter what Senia said, she never showed a change in expression. You could say that was part of Senias identity. But right now, her eyes were narrowed. Senia was trying to hint at something.


    Im being interrogated through Senia.


    The System itself was observing him, Kim Hyukjin.


    Regression? Hyukjin burst out in uproariousughter. Wait, are you talking about returning to the past from the future?


    Yes. Is that funny to you?


    Such a thing being real hasnt even urred to me. No matter how powerful the System is, can it turn back time?


    The Systems limit in regards to time was Pause, and that was it.


    It cannot.


    So do you mean to say that I, a mere human, transcended time and space to return to the past and y here when even the System cannot do such a thing?


    There is no other eptable exnation for yer Kim Hyukjins actions.


    Just because you cant ept it doesnt make it evidence of regression.


    ying like this is possible because Kim Hyukjin regressed.<em></em>That was a valid hypothesis. What wasnt valid was Kim Hyukjin <em>must </em>have regressed to y like this.


    What I know for sure is that the System rejects regression.


    What would happen if he were to expose himself here and reveal that he was a regressor?


    I would be a bug that needed to disappear.


    So he could not acknowledge the truth, not even slightly. Even though he was up against the Systems scrutiny, he had to put up a perfect act and sculpt the situation he wanted.


    By the same logic, if I were a regressor, I wouldnt have gone up against the Fire Giants, nor would I have gone to the Endless Sky.


    That was naturalthey were incidents that hadnt happened in the past he knew, but secrets of the world triggered by Hyukjins actions.


    You saw how I almost died in the Endless Sky, didnt you?


    Yes, I certainly did.


    Hyukjin became even more sure. Senia was questioning him like this was an interrogation, but she was also defending him. With her agreement, she was taking Kim Hyukjins side. She was expressionless at the moment.


    Granted, I can see the future, to some extent.


    That was permissible by the System. In this world, precognitive dreams and seers were a thing.


    And Ive based my ying off of that knowledge. He broke down the situation very rationally. I recognized that Sunhwa and Ahyoung went out to have fun.


    ...


    But the charm that Ahyoung had been recing every day suddenly turned a chilling red color. I have an observation ability, and judged that the change in color was an ominous sign.


    That is indeed a reasonable judgment to make.


    As he thought, Senia was on his side. Hyukjin went on.


    Thats why I checked Ahyoungs search history and mobilized all the means avable to me to fly here.


    How did you notice that this ce was off?


    I sensed that this ce was strangely twisted through my Endless Sky Physique trait. The mana here is different.


    Everything up to this point is eptable. But then, how did you know about Ban Kimyung? How did you know that the casper was targeting Ban Kimyung?


    I saw someone intending to kill themselves on the second floor. Something like that catches the eye.


    Yes, it does.


    I determined that such a person is the perfect prey for a casper. Hyukjin took a moment to breathe. And I remembered how the whalekin couldnt do anything to the Steel Wyverns when they were ascending to the Endless Sky.


    Yes.


    Its the same as now. The caspers the whalekin, and Im the flock of Steel Wyverns. The casper was exhausted, and I wasnt.


    That is true.


    By expending the mana crystals I happened to have on me, Isabel was able to manifest greater power than usual, and thats how I was able to obliterate an Intermediate Administrator. It was sheer luck.


    In other words, you were able to uncover the caspers malicious scheme by your innate wit, but whatpletely obliterated the casper was Isabels ability. Is that what you are trying to say right now, yer Kim Hyukjin?


    Hyukjin smiled. After working hand in hand for so many months, he now felt that they made a great team. Senia was a truly full-fledged Intermediate Administrator now, one who actively protected her exclusively contracted yer.


    Exactly. I think it was probably Isabel.


    In that case, I will write the report like that.


    A report. That was likely a formality. The System was sure to have alreadye to a conclusion regarding this situation. Senias trembling wings were proof of that.


    A new title will be granted to yer Kim Hyukjin.


    What title?


    To be precise, [Pioneer of Victory] will be promoted to [Pioneer of Obliteration].


    Pioneer of Obliteration?


    Yes. The base of Pioneer of Victory is First Pioneer. It is through this title that you gained Pioneer of Victory.


    I know that, too.


    Hyukjin recalled the title effect of Pioneer of Victory.<blockquote>


    [Pioneer of Victory]


    A glorious title given to one who pioneered a new domain and seized the first victory in a new domain.<ol><li>


    All party members +20% EXP</li><li>


    Stacks with other titles.</li><li>


    Stacks with other effects (buffs/debuffs).</li><li>


    Amplifies all title effects when in a field pioneered by the Pioneer of Victory.</li></ol></blockquote>


    So the title was promoted because I was the first to kill an Intermediate Administrator?


    Senia nodded. Yes. Not kill, but obliterate. They are undeniably different. Pioneer of Obliteration is at least two levels higher than Pioneer of Victory.


    And why is it that youre giving me such a detailed exnation of all this?


    He could have simply learned this through the System, but an Intermediate Administrator was telling him instead. He wanted to know why.


    Because its the first [Obliteration-grade] title given by the System.

 Chapter 270

    Chapter 270


    Because its the first [Obliteration-grade] title given by the System.


    Hyukjin checked the title effect.<blockquote>


    [Pioneer of Obliteration]


    The Pioneer of Victory is someone who pioneered a new domain and seized the first victory in a new domain. The Pioneer of Victory can grow in different ways. This title, Pioneer of Obliteration, is granted to the first yer topletely obliterate an upper-grade being.<ol><li>


    All party members +25% EXP</li><li>


    Stacks with other titles.</li><li>


    Stacks with other effects (buffs/debuffs).</li><li>


    Amplifies all title effects when in a field pioneered by the Pioneer of Victory.</li><li>


    Can use the title effect Obliteration.</li></ol></blockquote>


    A new authority had been added to the title.<blockquote>


    [Obliteration]<ol><li>


    yer</li></ol>


    When Obliteration is used on a yer in critical condition, the yer is either stripped of their yer rights, or their yer abilities will be reduced.<ol start="2"><li>


    Non-yer</li></ol>


    When Obliteration is used on a non-yer in critical condition, their potential to awaken as a yer will either be lost or reduced.</blockquote>


    Hyukjin gulped.


    This shit is possible?


    The world was rapidly entering an age of new culture where yers were essentially power. In such a world, an authority that could control someones yer rights had the potential to give the wielder tremendous power.


    I can basically close or decrease talent tes by force.


    All of a sudden,


    Why is Song Jinchuling to mind?


    There was no rhyme or reason. That spoiled brats face simply popped into his mind all of a sudden. Song Jinchul, the youngest Sungshin scion who had awakened ahead of n. The kid had it out for Hyukjin, but Hyukjin wasnt all that afraid of him.


    If I wanted to, I could even erase his talent tes.


    Of course, he wouldnt abuse a power like this without justification, nor was that something he wanted to do. Swinging around a big bat just because he had one wasnt something Kim Hyukjin fancied doing.


    Congrattions on acquiring an obliteration-grade title, said Senia.


    Thanks.


    I will be opening the channel soon. Would you like to tell the Guardians that you have acquired an obliteration-grade title?


    Hyukjin thought for a moment. There were benefits to both options.


    Lets hide it for now.


    Understood. However, I would like to know the reason.


    Senia was prepared to ept the greater part of whatever Hyukjin said. She felt as though she was learning a lot from him, and as such, she wanted to know his reasoning.


    It seems to me that an obliteration-grade title is among the highest grade titles you can get in the beginner period.


    That is untrue. It is a title that should not be possible to acquire in the beginner period. Normally, that is.


    Senia already knew that words like normally or originally were meaningless with Kim Hyukjin. Even the System designated this monster of a yer an Irregr.


    In any case, its incredibly good.


    Yes.


    The better something is, the more impact it has, right?


    Of course.


    If you drop too great a bomb up front, the impacts afterwards wont feel like impacts.


    Ah. Senia nodded. Do you mean that we should increase the impact by increments?


    Exactly. We need to feed them juicier tidbits little by little, showing them that Im growing. If we tell them I got this title now, theres no knowing what Id have to get next to satisfy the Guardians. We cant throw out anything that will set their standards overly high.


    I understand. Thank you for the lesson.


    Senia stared at Kim Hyukjin in silence, maintaining her gaze for a long time. Hyukjin noticed her stare.


    What?


    I am curious about your true name.


    In truth, his true name wasnt why she had been staring at him. Senia herself had no idea why shed been spacing out. When she snapped back to her senses, she found that she was still staring at him.


    I told you I dont have anything like that.


    How faithfully do you intend on upholding the Swords Pact?


    Its not just a contract, but a pact. I need to give it my all.


    I see.


    For whatever reason, Senias feelings when she heard that wereplicated.


    Id like that contract to fall through.


    The twisted thought that it would be great if the Swords Pact were to be dissolved shed through her mind.


    What in the world am I thinking?!


    The Swords Pact could be called Kim Hyukjins foundation. It was thanks to the Swords Pact that he got the Endless Sky Physique, and Isabel would be an incredible help in his future growth. As the producer of his content, the more Kim Hyukjin grew, the higher her position would ascend.


    So why?


    Why did I just think that it would be nice if the Swords Pact were to be dissolved? she asked herself. I dont know.


    She found no answers.


    Still expressionless, Senia said, Opening the channel in ten seconds.


    Somehow, she seemed a little angry.


    * * *


    * * *


    There werent many people who could meet CEO Song Kiyoung without an appointment. Kim Hyukjin was one of them, and another was his youngest grandson, Song Jinchul.


    Grandpa!


    Jinchul, my boy.


    Even the mighty Song Kiyoung was helpless towards Song Jinchul. As long as Jinchuls older brother and sister were alive, the kid had no chance of bing the sessor and was simply the cute youngest child. That was why Song Kiyoung wasnt strict with Jinchul.


    I want to be stronger, too.


    Theres no free ticket to strength.


    But you can do that, Grandpa.


    Song Kiyoung chuckled. Why do you want to get stronger so badly?


    I want to stomp Kim Hyukjin.


    Kim Hyukjin?


    Song Kiyoung recalled a recent incidentthe scandal at Gwanghwamun D-Tower. That incident was deeply linked with Kim Hyukjin, and through it, Song Kiyoung acquired the yellow mana crystals.


    Junghwa is probably connected to it as well.


    Thankfully, Kim Hyukjin didnt push Junghe to take responsibility. But that actually worried Song Kiyoung more. Kim Hyukjin not pressing the issue now looked as though he was intentionally waiting.


    Yes. I want to be stronger than him at least.


    Even though hes already so far ahead?


    Still. If Grandpa helps me, I think I can catch up to him, easy.


    Jinchul. A person needs to know how to differentiate between allies and foes.


    Are you trying to say Kim Hyukjin is an ally?


    Hes an ally, yes. One we should keep as close as humanly possible.


    Okay. But if hes gonna be my ally, I also need to be strong.


    Thats true.


    Song Jinchul knew. He just had to whine, and his grandpa would yield.


    You can make me stronger with your ability, Grandpa.


    With the power of the Golden Sovereign, that was possible. It was just that it consumed an enormous fortune.


    Alright, Ill think about it. Your gramps might be striking it rich soon.


    Really? Okay. Ill wait!


    Song Jinchul left the office, somewhat excited.


    Jinchuls probably just a baby in Kim Hyukjins eyes anyway.


    CEO Song called Kim Hyukjin.


    Hello?


    Are you busy right now,d?


    No. Im on the road to Seoul.


    Just like you said, yellow mana crystals are extremely potent in producing a hangover cure.


    Is that so? Im d to hear that.


    In addition, if you generate mana by deploying one yellow mana crystal and ten white mana crystals in the appropriate manner, I think we can make an almost infinite quantity of hangover cure.


    Sitting in the car driving from Yangpyeong to Seoul, Kim Hyukjin smiled.


    You made it the same way before, too.


    The Arrayist Choi Wookhyun must have been mobilized for this process.


    Thats good news. Was Choi Wookhyun put to the task?


    Im not even surprised anymore. Youre right.


    Apparently, it would take more than this to surprise Song Kiyoung now.


    I think well be able to earn a fortune with this. Thanks to you.


    That was bound to happen. Sungshin had made a killing with this hangover cure in the past, too. Hyukjin took something that would have happened without his involvement and turned it into his own achievement.


    But is it okay for me to earn a fortune like this?


    What do you mean?


    As you know, my ss is called Golden Sovereign. By offering money, I can strengthen a target of my choosing.


    Yes.


    So do you think Ill invest in you, or in my grandchildren?


    Hyukjin realized CEO Song was hinting at something. He was hinting that he could very well give his full support to one of his grandchildren. The aggravator wasnt Song Kiyeol, but either Junghye or Jinchul. Song Junghye was probably grinding her teeth to nubs right now, and so was Song Jinchul.


    Are you telling me this in the spirit of fair y?


    Dont make too many enemies.


    Those enemies keep striking me first. Every time.


    Hyukjin paused.


    Thank you for letting me know for fairness sake.


    I didnt tell you anything myself.


    I have one thing to say as well.


    Song Kiyoung had just told him to not make too many enemies. So Hyukjin said back,


    Do not be my enemy.


    This was a word of warning for CEO Song, but also his final warning for Song Junghye and Song Jinchul.


    Song Kiyoungughed.


    An arrogant thing to say.


    But he wasnt displeased by those arrogant words, nor did they sound like an empty bluff.


    Kim Hyukjin lowered the phone. That was sufficient warning from him.


    * * *


    Four days passed after returning from Yangpyeong. In that time, Michael came to Korea and had his meeting with Ahyoung.


    Gathered at the table were Kim Hyukjin, his mother Lee Soohyun, his little sister Kim Sunhwa, his older sister Kim Ahyoung, and even Kim Darong. The family of fiveif you included the little squirrelwere enjoying a harmonious dinner.


    As the dinner approached its conclusion, Hyukjin looked at Ahyoung.


    How was it? he asked her.


    How was what?


    You met Michael. For two days in a row.


    Their moms eyes widened at that.


    Whaaat? Lee Soohyun eximed. Youre seeing a man? Is he a foreigner?


    Psh, Mom. Its not like that.


    Then whos Michael?


    The person wholl teach me how to cook.


    Really? Lee Soohyun sighed regretfully. Its about time for you to meet a decent man.


    When he heard that, Hyukjin suddenly remembered something.


    Come to think of it there was a rumor that hes the worlds greatest doting husband.


    Michael had a ster reputation.


    Her face didnt be public, but I heard he married an Asian woman?


    Hyukjin heard Michael had gone somewhere for cooking research and married a woman he met there. The famous chef had apparently fallen in love at first sight and chased her for half a year, or something like that.


    Instead of responding to her momsint, Ahyoung moved her chopsticks in silence, moving a few soy sauce beans into her mouth.


    Noona. Why arent you responding?


    To what?


    Hyukjin suddenly remembered that Michael was an impressively handsome man. He was the Gold Pyramid Michelles little brother. Of course those superior genes hadnt just vanished.


    Michael. How was he?


    How would I know? Ive only met him two times.


    Did he tell you toe to the US?


    No, he said he was nning on opening a new restaurant in Korea.


    And he said hed invite you there?


    He told me to climb the ranks, starting from a kitchen porter.


    That was good. It was exactly what Ahyoung had wanted so badlyto learn under a proper chef. There was nothing more she could want, especially if that chef was Michael.


    He was nning on opening a new restaurant in Korea?


    That was BS. Michael originally had zero interest in Korea. Hyukjin had to pull a favor just to get the man toe, and that was a close thing.


    What is he smoking?


    This wouldnt do.


    Lets go see him together.


    Why you?


    Didnt he tell you why he came to Korea and met you?


    He said it was the request of a VIP.


    That VIP is me.


    ...


    Ahyoung was shocked into silence. She had suspected it, but hearing it for herself made her breath catch in her throat. How in the world did her little brother be the VIP of such a super-famous chef?


    As his VIP, Id better go meet him. If hes really going to open a restaurant in Korea, theres a lot I can help him with.


    Just focus on your work. Youre busy.


    Im really free these days.


    Kim Sunhwa pressed X to doubt.


    Hold on, Oppa needs to go to Singapore, clear the World Cup Stadium Dungeon, and continue the Sword Forest scenario. Hes actually super busy?


    In any case, one day passed. Hyukjin intended on meeting Michael, but that meeting did note to be.


    <em>Whirrrrrrrrr!</em>


    A siren sted off in the distance, audible all the way from the DMC Riverview Xi. Breaking news hit the mediaa dungeon break had urred.


    A dungeon break?


    It couldnt be.


    The Sangam World Cup Dungeon, which was supposed to break one month from now, had already begun the process.


    The dungeon shouldnt even be created at this point


    Something had changed.

 Chapter 271

    Chapter 271


    The Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon was one that Kim Hyukjin had been nning on clearing. He should have had a month of leeway, but the schedule had been yanked forward.


    For the first time in a while, he took out his notes from his Inventory.


    February 28, 2019. Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon opens.


    The date was January 24, 2019, over one month before the original start time.


    March 28, 2019. Wings and Taeguk Shield work together to clear the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon.


    The Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon was quite an important dungeon in the country. It spawned 2002 Red Devils, and clearing the dungeon yielded a random, but fairly high number of white mana crystals. As a result, the dungeon was the springboard that allowed Korea to leap into the mana crystal business, and a pir of the new culture trade.


    Hyukjin also recalled a paragraph from Jacksons notes.


    The 2002 Red Devils spawned by the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon cannot be hunted. At least not by yers in the beginner period.


    For starters, physical attacks didnt work on them. They could only be damaged by an attack that was both magic and used holy power. In other words, only holy magic from priest-ss yers.


    As such, Korea employed a defensive strategy.


    Thankfully, the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon was time-limited.


    The southwestern spot isparatively the safest ce.


    I call it the safe spot. If you set up an array in the safe spot and simply get rid of the crows that attract the Red Devils, you can hold out fairly easily for thirty minutes.


    Hyukjin already knew about that safe spot. A ce that wasnt technically a safe zone, but seemed like one. A ce yers found after countless clear attempts.


    Put another way this is a dungeon that is impossible to clear without that spot.


    Endure thirty minutes in that spot, and the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon would be cleared. That was why Hyukjin had recruited the assistance of Wings and archer yers in advance. Excellent archers were needed to hunt the crowsthe messengersand defensive-oriented yers like the Wings Guild were required to block the Red Devils that asionally stumbled into the safe spot.


    A clear in the true sense of the word was achieved in the master period, but the clearer chose not to share their method. Not only because their method is exceedingly dangerous even for master period yers, but also because the preceding strategy is far more efficient.


    In other words, a true clear wasnt necessary. This was a dungeon where simply holding out was the best strategy.


    And a break had urred in such a dungeon.


    In the worst case scenario, 2002 Red Devils would break loose. yers of the current period could not hunt them. The same went for Kim Hyukjin.


    Oppa. What should we do? said Kim Sunhwa.


    Im thinking.


    Dont we need to go if theres a dungeon break?


    The energy Im sensing is too dangerous.


    In truth, that was bogus. He couldnt feel any energy. They were a good ten minutes away by car. He <em>might </em>be able to sense something if a Red Devil were toe this way, but he couldnt feel anything yet.


    Hyukjin got a call from Song Kiyeol.


    A dungeon break has urred.


    Yes. Im watching the breaking news as well.


    Weve determined that small monsters that look like Goblins are currently running out.


    About how many of them?


    Several dozen at the least.


    Is it possible to see what theyre called?


    Yes. Their names are red. Theyre called Red Devils.


    Hyukjin let out a low exmation.


    Do you know these monsters?


    I do.


    Is there a way to defeat them, by any chance?


    No.


    Then how should we proceed?


    Hyukjinpsed into silence. It wasnt hard for Song Kiyeol to figure out the reason behind Hyukjins silence.


    I suppose that means theyre overwhelmingly powerful.


    So powerful that even the amazing Kim Hyukjin was unable to jump to action. In addition, Song Kiyeol was well aware that Kim Hyukjin had no obligation whatsoever. No one could force him.


    Are you nning on staying out of this one?


    Im considering what to do.


    In other words, he wouldnt be taking action yet.


    Understood. We will give our best shot at fighting them in our own way.


    It will probably be impossible.


    With that, their conversation came to an end. Hyukjin immediately called Jo Sunghyun to his house.


    * * *


    * * *


    <em>Ding, dong</em>


    The bell rang. It hadnt taken long for the future Typhoon, now a member of the Giantgod Guild, to arrive at Hyukjins home. The majority of Giantgods members were living in the DMC Riverview Xi.


    Jo Sunghyun asked, Hyung, when are we setting off?


    Were staying on standby.


    Even though theres been a dungeon break?


    That was why Hyukjin had intentionally called Sunghyun to his house.


    If I hadnt called you here, where would you be?


    The wind magician would have long since been deployed to the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon. It was because Hyukjin had called him first that Jo Sunghyun was here.


    Ill cut straight to the point.


    How would Jo Sunghyun take this?


    Dont get involved in this dungeon break.


    Jo Sunghyuns lips pursed into a line. He had full faith in Kim Hyukjins judgment, but he found the order hard to ept.


    Please tell me why.


    Its way too dangerous.


    Weve already done a lot of way too dangerous ys.


    This is different. Its even more dangerous. We cant kill Red Devils at our level.


    Then what do we do?


    Wait for them to naturally disappear.


    They would disappear after destroying as many humans and products of civilization as they wanted. Just like with most dungeon breaks.


    I hear an incredible amount of damage is being caused already. Those monsters, theyre cutting open peoples bellies with their ws and digging in.


    Red Devils were small. Other than beingpletely red, having two horns on their heads, and extremely sharp ws, they were so simr in appearance to Goblins that they could even be called a Goblin variant.


    I know.


    We need to go out and stop them.


    Why?


    Because we have the strength.


    Hyukjin knew Sunghyun would say something like that. It was perfectly in line with Hyukjins image of the young man. He respected Sunghyuns opinion. Everyone had their own values.


    We may have the strength, but if we go, well die for sure.


    ...


    There are times when we cant do something even when we want to, and times when we have to do something even when we dont want to.


    To me, its cowardly to run away without using the strength you have.


    If that strength falls far too short of resolving the situation, its reckless bravado. In front of the Red Devils, be it you, me, regr yers or people, were all weak.


    Jo Sunghyun fell into thought. After one minute, he began to speak again.


    Is that why youre telling me not to go, Hyung?


    The choice is yours.


    Hyukjin had told him everything there was to tell. He had given Sunghyun the facts. Now, it was time to appeal to Sunghyuns emotions. If Jo Sunghyun went, he would die. He was no match for the Red Devils right now. Convincing Sunghyun required approaching the matter in a Jo Sunghyun-esque way.


    But think about this: Is sacrificing your future to help the people now truly a just thing?


    ...


    In the future, when youre stronger, youll have opportunities to save more people. Think long and hard about whether you are discarding those opportunities with your current choice.


    ...


    Knocking Sunghyun unconscious and locking him up might be a passable short-term fix. But Hyukjin didnt consider that a proper solution. In the end, people were bound to do what they wanted.


    Chewing his lip, Jo Sunghyun fell into contemtion again. After a long time, he spoke.


    I dont know.


    The original Sunghyun would have left right away. He would have waded through fire and mes to fight the Red Devils.


    Of course I need to go. Thats the non-cowardly route. But There was even a little anger on Sunghyuns face. After what you said, I keep hesitating.


    If anyone else had said it, he wouldnt have even listened. He might have even gotten mad at them, calling them out for such cowardly words. How was hiding like a scared rabbit the best way? But he was talking to Kim Hyukjin, and Kim Hyukjins words had weight. At least to Jo Sunghyun.


    Another long moment passed.


    Ill wait here.


    Good call, Sunghyun.


    Sunghyun didnt give up.


    Ill try to think of a way.


    * * *


    The Red Devils caused hundreds of casualties.


    They were all people who had gone on pics around the World Cup Stadium, pedestrians passing by the area, people whod been shopping in the hypermarket nearby. The losses were rapidly shooting up.


    The damage radiated outwards from the Sangam World Cup Stadium, the focal point. An evacuation order was put out, and many yers were killed and eaten by the Red Devils. The yers got a shared quest called Hunt a Red Devil!, but not a single person managed to clear it.


    In the midst of the chaos, the people came to realize a certain fact.


    The Red Devils arenting to the area around our apartment.


    I heard its because of the Guardian Tower.


    No Red Devils appeared in the DMC Riverview Xi neighborhood. Witnesses even imed a Red Devil in pursuit of its target turned and left after colliding against an invisible wall near the DMC Riverview Xi.


    The Guardian Tower really has that kind of power?


    <em>Thend protected by the Guardian Tower was safe from the Red Devils. </em>That revtion triggered an outburst of breaking news and spective articles.


    The DMC Riverview Xi, Isted from Hell


    The Guardian Towers Barrier Blocks Red Devils


    Driven by the realization that the DMC Riverview Xi was a safe zone, the masses swarmed towards it, a development that urred in less than two days.


    In the middle of all that, Kim Hyukjin got a call from Jackson.


    Are you not going to take action this time?


    Perhaps because of Kim Hyukjins influence, even Taeguk Shield was taking a defensive stance. They were already attracting public criticism. The military mobilized helicopters and were doing their best to hunt the Red Devils, but modern weapons didnt work.


    Yes. Im staying out of this one.


    Why?


    Because there are no means to hunt a Red Devil.


    I see.


    But whyd you bother calling?


    Darn, you noticed?


    <em>Ding dong</em>


    The bell rang. Behind the door was the Great Explorer Jackson. Hyukjin opened the door.


    Originally, Jackson was an incredibly good-looking man. But his formerly shiny golden locks were frayed, and he was extremely dirty. His face was a jungle of uncut beard, and a foul stench emanated from him, as if hed gone dumpster diving.


    Youre looking worse for wear.


    Yes. I cleared a difficult dungeon, and then getting here was no walk in the park.


    ...


    Basically, this Great Explorer had dodged the Red Devils toe all this way.


    Anyway, I came here to give you this.


    Jackson took out an item, which Hyukjin took.


    What is this?


    He couldnt check the itemeven the name showed up as a ?. Jackson sped Hyukjins hand.


    Let me give you my buff real quick. You can think of it as an explorers blessing.


    A cool sensation enveloped Hyukjins body. The blue energy shed, and a blue ring formed above Hyukjins head.<blockquote>


    [Great Baptists Blessing is taking effect.]</blockquote>


    That allowed Hyukjin to check the item. The ? item description slowly became visible. The items name was Endless Sky Crystal.

 Chapter 272

    Chapter 272


    The items name was Endless Sky Crystal.<blockquote>


    [Endless Sky Crystal]


    A crystal imbued with the mana of the Endless Sky. People with particr constitutions can manipte the mana within using a special method.


    Grade: Low</blockquote>


    Endless Sky Crystal?


    There was nothing about it in his notes, ypedia, or any guide or encyclopedia.


    So something like this existed.


    A crystal imbued with the mana of the Endless Sky. As soon as he saw the crystal, he could grasp its purpose.


    It fulfills a simr function to the yellow mana crystals I had in my Inventory.


    When Hyukjin created a Heavenly Sword with Isabel as a base, he couldnt cover the mana cost on his own. The yellow mana crystals in his Inventory shattered, releasing energy that he then absorbed and used.


    By particr constitution, it must be referring to the Endless Sky Physique.


    Because he had a second heart, he should be able to use the mana of the Endless Sky.


    But why are you giving this to me?


    Why, because I thought it would suit you.


    Does the particr constitution in the description have anything to do with me?


    For some reason, Hyukjin didnt want to tell Jackson everything. It somehow felt like he was waging a battle of wit, where every piece of knowledge could yield an advantage. In Hyukjins eyes, the Great Explorer of his former life didnt seem as virtuous as his reputationuded.


    I think there might be, yes.


    You thought wrong then.


    No, Im certain that Im not mistaken.


    I think Ill find it difficult to use this item.


    Hyukjin had to carefully consider whether this gift was truly an act of goodwill. Jackson gave him the feeling that the man was hiding a great deal.


    Even if you cant use it now, you will be able to use it someday.


    ...


    <em>If</em> you are the person I think you are.


    What kind of person do you think I am, Jackson?


    The one whose head I must anoint with oil.


    Jackson had said the same thingst time, but Hyukjin didnt know what he was talking about.


    I have no intent to profit in any way whatsoever by giving this to you. Id be grateful if you would think of it as a simple gift.


    Ill do that, then.


    For now, Hyukjin epted the Endless Sky Crystal.


    The day you will use it wille.


    Just then, the doorbell rang. Hyukjin knew someone was outside the door. It was a familiar presence.


    He opened the door for the new visitor.


    Hello! It sort of feels like its been a while.


    It was Kang Somyi, the only witness who had seen him going from the first floor of the D-Tower to the second. The explorer who had seen through Hyukjins Cognitive Dissonance.


    My teacher told me to bring this.


    Teacher?


    Jackson scratched the back of his head with an embarrassedugh. About that I somehow became her teacher.


    Youre Kang Somyis teacher, Jackson?


    It was true that Kang Somyi was, like Jackson, a famous explorer in Hyukjins past life. But that didnt mean she was connected in any way to Jackson. She had been famous for her full facial burns, which led her to going out in public with her headpletely wrapped in bandages. There had been zero indication that she was close to Jackson.


    Things have changed from the past, ever so slightly.


    His existence was a major variable that changed the present, and those changes led to Kang Somyi bing Jacksons student.


    In any case, take a look. You have no idea how hard it was to get my hands on this.


    Kang Somyi passed Hyukjin an item.<blockquote>


    [Endless Sky Hammer]


    An artifact that can shatter an Endless Sky Crystal. An Endless Sky Hammer is needed to be able to harness an Endless Sky Crystals power.


    Grade: Low</blockquote>


    Hyukjin stared at Jackson.


    Awfully determined, arent you?


    Endless Sky Crystal, and Endless Sky Hammer. With these two, he should be able to use the Endless Sky Crystal.


    Jackson smiled good-naturedly, then shrugged.


    The time wille when you will prove your qualifications as a king.


    You seem to be sure of that.


    Yes, I am. Thats also why Ive been unable to leave Korea.


    In the early days of ying, Jackson went traveling from country to country. He was supposed to uncover countless strategies and hidden pieces in the world, earning his name as the Great Explorer.


    But now, hes stuck in Korea.


    As Hyukjin thought, something was different after all.


    Kang Somyi plopped onto the sofa, saying, Mr. Hyukjin, could I crash here for a few days? Your house is so nice.


    ...


    I dont know about Teacher, but I cant leave this ce. If I get caught by the Red Devils, itll be Game Over for me. Kang Somyi drew a line across her neck. Please let me stay here for a few days.


    Jackson added, That, or you could also hunt them, Hyukjin.


    * * *


    * * *


    Time passed. Jackson walked out the front door.


    The choice is always yours.


    Still covered in filth, Jackson closed the door and left. After seeing her teacher off, Kang Somyi said, You know, theres something Im really curious about.


    What is it?


    How did you leave the D-Tower 2nd floor alive? I caught the gist of what the articles were saying. Chinese yers illegally took over the esctor and were threatening and confining the yer on the upper floor. And that Taeguk Shield stepped forward to suppress them. Kang Somyi shook her head. But that wasnt what happened. When Guildmaster Song Kiyeol arrived, the situation had already been nearly resolved.


    ...


    Are you truly the one who is qualified to be the king?


    ording to what Jackson says. Do you know anything about the king, Miss Somyi?


    Somyi stroked her chin in thought, sitting cross-legged on the sofa.


    A lot of explorers probably know about the king.


    Why is that?


    Because the ultimate goal of an explorer is to find the king, I guess?


    The ultimate goal of an explorer was to find the king? There was nothing about that in the past. No, even if it had existed, it wasnt something the ordinary popce would have known.


    Why do you seek the king?


    Hm, I dont really know, either. Its just the mission of our ss.


    Why dont regr people know that?


    Because the king will be born at a time no one knows or expects. The king dislikes troublesome and noisy affairs. Kang Somyi tilted her head. Or so my ss description says. I dont know why.


    Hyukjin was continuously finding out new things about this world. Today, he learned a little more about the objective all explorers shared.


    How long are you going to stay here?


    Like I said, just let me stay a few days. I cant leave. The Red Devils are too frickin scary, darn it.


    ...


    Kang Somyi shook her head violently to and fro, clutching the sofa like she couldnt possibly be parted from it.


    What a nuisance.


    I might be a nuisance, but a girls gotta survive.


    Hyukjin snorted, thinking, With your skills, you should be able to slip out one way or another.


    But she was insisting on overstaying her wee.


    It must be your job to watch me.


    She might have even been ordered by Jackson to do so. She, the Faceless Explorer, was his student.


    Whatever.


    It was fine. He had the feeling Jackson had set this stage. The Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeons early break might even have something to do with Jackson.


    <em>The choice is always yours.</em>


    Hyukjin decided to make that choice.


    * * *


    The guild members of Giantgod convened at Kim Hyukjins house. Sitting next to Hyukjin was the Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, Song Kiyeol.


    Sitting on the sofa, Shin Yeonseo picked up an apple slice, munching on it as she said, Boss. Are we gonna go out to hunt Red Devils, too?


    Its more like were going to be calling them here, not going out.


    Jo Sungyuns fiery gaze was fixed on his guildmaster. He hadnt participated in the Red Devil hunt at Kim Hyukjins behest. That was a thorn in his heart. Even at this very moment, many, many people were being eaten alive by Red Devils.


    Hrm? How are we gonna call them here?


    I will exin, said Song Kiyeol, standing up. The devils typically respond to one of two things.


    One was humans. They considered humans their prey.


    Humans. And mana crystals.


    ...


    We will lure them in with mana crystals.


    ...


    For this process, we will be mobilizing Taeguk Shields own arrayist, Choi Wookhyun.


    Choi Wookhyun was the person who had yed an important role in developing the hangover cure, a feat that pushed him to the top ranks in Taeguk Shield.


    We will set up the mana crystals ording to our arrayists blueprint, and if things go as nned, theyll head here, towards the DMC Riverview Xi.


    How will we hunt them after theyve gathered? asked Sunghyun.


    The yers couldnt hunt the Red Devils at their current level. This time, Hyukjin responded.


    The hunting will be done by me. With Seohye.


    He would borrow the power of the Guardian Tower, as well as the Endless Sky Crystal. Jo Sunghyuns lips twitched like there was something he wanted to say.


    Sunghyun. I know what youre going to say.


    Kim Hyukjin was the one who had adamantly opposed hunting the Red Devils. But now, he was doing a 180 and saying he would hunt them. Of course it was strange.


    Its almost impossible to hunt them. It might be dangerous for me, too. Thats why well bebining the efforts of Giantgod, Taeguk Shield, and Wings.


    Hyukjin would handle the offense on his own. But for everything other than attacking, he needed help from other yers.


    Whenever Im in danger, cover my back.


    If someone could distract the Red Devils for a split second, he might be able to hunt them. Choi Sung-gu shivered.


    But Hyukjin, broski. Why go this far, when we can just shut up and stay put? Were safe here. I hate scary things.


    Hyung. Cut the crap. People are dying by the dozens at this very moment. Do you hear yourself?


    Bro, are you a cat or something? Do you have nine lives?


    Is that important right now?


    It is. Ive only got one life!


    It was a little odd that someone who was saying that came here fully prepared for battle, but in any case, Choi Sung-gu stayed true to his whining character.


    Hyukjin raised his right hand. The squabbling pair instantly quieted.


    When ites to the worst-case situation, when I cant get up anymore out of exhaustion, its your guys job to buy me time.


    So Yoohyun curled his hands into fists.


    Well buy you gazillions of time no problem, Hyungnim!


    Song Kiyeol asked, May I inform the media that we will be leading the operation?


    Of course.


    The news spread: Taeguk Shield was stepping forward to hunt the Red Devils and bring an end to this national cmity. Before long, it was all anyone could talk aboutKoreas strongest guild was on the move.


    I heard Wings is also taking part?


    Taeguk Shield and Wings are going to work together?


    The most famous guild and second-most famous guild in the country would be working together. People started to have hope.


    Sitting at his desk, CEO Song Kiyoung rested his chin on his hands in deep thought.


    In the end, Kim Hyukjin is taking action.


    The CEO had thought Hyukjin wouldnt. CEO Song judged that Kim Hyukjin wouldnt take action on an uncertainty. The young man knew how to bet on a dangerous gamble, but he wouldnt start something with no chance of sess.


    Weve got a steady supply of white mana crystals from Boracay.


    They would use those mana crystals to deploy an array here.


    Mana crystals, and their use were told to us by Kim Hyukjin.


    That was how it was. Kim Hyukjin gave them a hint, Sungshin acted on it, and now, they were on the verge of mass producing a hangover cure.


    Was this scenario devised by Kim Hyukjin?


    If so, he was truly a terrifying man.


    Just how far into the future has he drawn his ns?


    * * *


    The situation was streamed live on TV. Under the escort of the Wings Guild, the Arrayist Choi Wookhyun went around nting white mana crystals. The scattered Red Devils began heading to one ce.


    The reporters broadcasted their migration from the air.


    The Red Devils are moving.


    And they were heading in the direction of the Guardian Tower, the DMC Riverview Xi.


    Taeguk Shield and Wings are preparing their forces to sh with the cmity-ss monsters.


    Millions watched with bated breath. Most people in the country had their eyes glued to the TV or their phones.


    Kim Hyukjin honed his concentration.


    This is where I encountered the Fire Giants.


    An individual Red Devil was weaker than a Fire Giant, but their numbers were far more overwhelming.


    Jackson. Ill move as you wish.


    Ultimately, Kim Hyukjin made his choice. To hunt the Red Devils massacring swathes of people, at the cost of revealing his Endless Sky Physique.


    <em>Thump.</em>


    His heart trembled.


    Some distance ahead, at the base of the hill, he spotted the first Red Devil walking this way. The thrill in his chest wasnt a new feeling, but it wasnt bad. On the contrary, it was exhrating. It felt as though he were alive.


    Ill use the Endless Sky Crystal.<blockquote>


    [Utilize the Endless Sky Hammer to use the Endless Sky Crystal?]</blockquote>


    He used the hammer on the Endless Sky Crystal. Now, he would be able to use the strength, the mana, stored within. His mental preparations wereplete.<blockquote>


    [Utilizing the Endless Sky Hammer to use the Endless Sky mana within the Endless Sky Crystal.]


    [Only the Endless Sky Physique can use Endless Sky mana.]</blockquote>


    A violent, fierce energy swept into his second heart, simr to what he felt when he first arrived in the Endless Sky. The energy was so intense that an ordinary yer may very well have been vaporized by the force.


    But Kim Hyukjin stayed calm. He epted the energys torrential flow, and his second heart harmonized with it. Vitality overflowed from his body, and he began to glow with blue light.


    And in a turn of events he hadnt predicted, two women appeared next to him, one on each side.

 Chapter 273

    Chapter 273


    Hyukjin realized that the Endless Sky Crystal in his Inventory was slowly breaking down. As it fragmented, the mana it released was being processed by his body.


    He heard Isabels voice.


    I didnt think I would manifest here, she said.


    He heard Seohyes voice as well.


    Neither did I.


    Sunhwa ran up, pulling Seohye in for a tight hug.


    Seohye!


    Sunhwa!


    The two spun a few times, embracing each other. Hyukjin got the feeling it wasnt the time for that, but he didnt interrupt their reunion. Sunhwas eyes were glistening with tears. Thankfully, Seohye pulled away after giving Sunhwa a few pats on the head.


    Dont we need to kill that Red Devil? Seohye asked, pointing to the monster at the base of the hill with her chin. At that, the white-robed Isabel took a step forward.


    Child of the Red Eye. You stay put.


    Violent energy whirled from the purple mana crystal topping the staff in Isabels hands.


    Who are you, auntie?


    Auntie? Isabels face contorted into a scowl. <em>Auntie?</em>


    Yes. Auntie.


    The moment Ahn Seohye saw Isabel, she felt an inexplicable surge of displeasure, intensified by her mental connection to Hyukjin.


    Seohye could tell.


    She doesnt <em>look </em>that old, but...


    By all appearances, Isabel didnt look much older than her. If Seohye were a person and not a Guardian Tower, she would have probably called Isabel unnie. But she could sense traces of innumerable years from Isabel. This woman in front of her was absolutely not in her 20s.


    Child. You should instinctively feel who I am, no?


    Yes. An auntie.


    Isabel didnt seem at all interested in the Red Devils approaching from afar. At least at this moment, her attention was fully on Ahn Seohye.


    And you can feel that my mental connection to Husband is incredibly strong, cant you?


    I havent been a Guardian Tower for very long, so I cant feel it that closely.


    Dont lie.


    Im not lying. And why is he your husband?


    Because hes the Sword Pactee.


    The Sword Pactee is the Sword Pactee. How does that make him your husband?


    Kim Sunhwa nodded. It was her first time seeing Isabel manifest, and she had been wondering who it was. Only after hearing the words Sword Pact did she realize the womans identity.


    Isabel?


    The transcendent artifact Isabel?


    But Isabel is a sword.


    She was a sword, so why did she look like a magician? Hyukjin interrupted with a cough.


    Both of you, now isnt the time for this.


    Isabel refused to relent. Child. Return to the Guardian Tower.


    No thanks. Do you know how long its been since Ive been able to move freely?


    Sunhwa butted in with her own input. I dont want you to go back, Unnie.


    Isabels frown grew a little more pronounced.


    Answer this. Are you confident you can wipe out all of the Red Devils over there?


    Im not confident I can wipe out all of them, but I <em>can </em>kill the ones approaching Master. Seohye smiled sweetly, her eyes glowing red. Ill kill everything that threatens Master.


    Hyukjin frowned imperceptibly. Hearing Master in his head through their mental link was still okay, but hearing Seohye say it out in the open made his insides squirm. Sung-gu was clearly trying his best to pretend like he hadnt heard, and Yeonseo looked strangely at Hyukjin, unable to conceal her astonishment.


    Seohye, what kind of bizarr-o title is that? Master?


    It was automatically set when I became a Guardian Tower. No matter what I call him, ites out as Master.


    Ah is that so?


    Hyukjins face reddened a little, wondering why this situation felt more mortifying to him than fighting Red Devils. While all of this was going on, the Red Devil drew a little closer.


    But


    Eye of Perception wasnt ring a warning at him. Normally, Eye of Perception would have sensed the approaching monsters strength and sent a danger signal echoing through his whole body, but that wasnt happening.


    Isabel spoke again. Child. Make a concession this time. Theres no time for a long exnation. Husband has limited strength, and maintaining both of us will prevent him from drawing out his full power.


    ...


    As Im sure you can feel as well, manifesting us both is draining the Endless Sky Crystals power far faster.


    ... Seohye balled her fists. Ill concede this time.


    Good decision.


    But I wont back down next time.


    For some reason, Seohye considered Isabel her foe. With a jolt of shock, she realized something.


    Am I jealous right now?


    She didnt think she was being jealous because she saw Kim Hyukjin as a man. It felt a little different from that.


    Shes bound to him with a higher level contract than me.


    Both she and Isabel were bound to Hyukjin with contracts. But Isabels was more than thatit was a pact.


    And that frustrates me.


    The other woman was connected to Hyukjin even more closely than her. That was what Seohye disliked. It was a blow to her pride, and the Guardian Tower Ahn Seohye was left with a sense of intense defeat.


    Auntie. Ill go back to the Guardian Tower. Im conceding this time, so you need to be a big help to Master in my stead.


    After sharing a regretful farewell with Yeonseo and Sunhwa, Seohye returned to the Guardian Tower.


    By the time she left, the Red Devil was just a hundred meters away. But something was strange about the monstereven though the Guardian Tower wasnt repelling it, it couldnte any closer.


    <em>Grr, grrrrr.</em>


    It nced around uneasily, looking anxious.


    Isabel closed her eyes for a moment.


    Husband. Did those little red ones bully you?


    ...


    Hyukjin captured something with Observers Eye, and realized what it was.


    Isabels domain expansion.


    Isabel was exuding an invisible energy that was covering this entire area, unfurling over such arge region that Hyukjin could not begin to measure its borders at his current level. He only knew it was incredibly huge. Everywhere her energy covered was her domain.


    Ill punish them for you.


    * * *


    * * *


    A certain Japanese man visited the VVIP hospital room in Sungshin Hospital.


    Did you feel it, too?


    The man looked to be in histe teens or early 20shis face still held traces of immaturity. Holding a Trantion Marble, he stared at the woman on the hospital bed.


    The womans name was Ham Sohyun.


    I have no abilities other than Precognitive Dream.


    I see.


    And the mans name was Itachi. Itachi walked towards the window, gazing into the sky.


    Just one year ago, I saw no future of meing to Korea. No star in the sky told me that I would be here now.


    But one day, things were changed again and again by the enormous star, the future changed, and he ended uping to Korea, altering his original fate of never leaving Japan.


    And now, the enormous star my eyes cannot see is about to move.


    How can you tell that something you cant see is moving?


    I can feel it. Its existence is so enormous I cannot see it with my eyes, but I <em>am </em>cognizant of its flow.


    Itachi took out a precognitive note. It was a copy.


    <em>A meeting urs before the cornerstone of an ash-covered temple.</em>


    <em>If they meet as enemies, so shall a congration of hellmence.</em>


    <em>If they meet as friends, so shall the hymn of heaven ring.</em>


    The star has sung, and it sung a hymn. A hymn of great rapture thatunched another star.


    I struggle to understand what you mean.


    What I mean to say is that the man named Kim Hyukjin isunching a star. Have you had any dreams rted to Kim Hyukjin recently?


    Sohyun nodded. Just a few days ago, she had a precognitive dream about him. She recited the note she had scribed while having the dream.


    <em>A false, sweet fragrance shall permeate you.</em>


    ...


    <em>The prophecy of the true seer dothe to be.</em>


    Did your visione to be?


    Sohyun nodded again. I think so, yes.


    How very strange. Its already fascinating that you can dream about a specific person, but youre certain that its him, and you can even feel that the prophecy you made about him was fulfilled. This is, to my knowledge, a first.


    And it only happened with one person, Kim Hyukjin. That was the reason why Itachi flew to Korea.


    Have you met him?


    Yes. Once.


    How was it? At Ham Sohyuns hesitation, Itachi urged, Please speak your mind. You can say whatever you think.


    Itachi wanted to know more. He wanted to know more about this absolutely iprehensible yer who could change the position of the stars,unch a star, and possibly even <em>destroy </em>a star.


    I dont remember his face.


    ...What?


    I remember that I saw him, but I dont remember how he looked, no matter how hard I try to remember.


    Could it be that he used a special skill?


    Kim Hyukjin had Cognitive Dissonance. But at that time, he hadnt used it.


    No, its not that. Ham Sohyun fumbled a bit, then continued. It was like I was looking at darkness.


    Itachi nodded.


    The person who shows you clearer visions than anyone else feels like darkness to you. How fascinating. He gazed into the sky again. And the mighty star protecting Kim Hyukjin is currently dominating this space. That stars name isugh!


    His body convulsed, and he copsed to the floor, unconscious. Ham Sohyun hurriedly summoned the nurse, and the unconscious Itachi was moved to another hospital room.


    * * *


    Ill punish them for you, said Isabel. Its difficult to get rid of them one by one, and theres no time. Ill use the mana in the Endless Sky Crystal in the most efficient manner.


    How?


    If you dont want things to get troublesome, use Cognitive Dissonance first.


    For now, Hyukjin did as he was told.


    Ill give you a little boost.


    He heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [Cognitive Dissonance has been temporarily promoted to Wide-Area Cognitive Dissonance


    [Wide-Area Cognitive Dissonance is boosted into Wide-Area Cognitive Distortion and takes effect.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin had no idea just how wide an area was being affected, but a Wide-Area Cognitive Distortion was triggered.


    Isabel uttered an incantation of some kind.


    -------.


    Her body disappeared. Only her voice could be heard.


    <em>Infinite Sword Rain</em>.


    And then, something unbelievable urred. Above the Red Devil loitering a hundred meters away, unable toe any closer, appeared a sword. The sword descended, plunging into the Red Devils head and splicing it in two.


    Huh?


    A notice rang out.<blockquote>


    [Red Devil has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [500 Coins acquired.]</blockquote>


    Clearing the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate had rewarded him with 2,000 Coins. But now, he was getting 500 Coins from a single monster.


    The Red Devil was ughtered with a single attack. And because he himself hadnt killed itIsabel hadthe Observer penalty didnt take effect, meaning he got both EXP and Coins.


    But


    His shock didnt end there.<blockquote>


    [Red Devil has been killed.]


    [Red Devil has been killed.]</blockquote><blockquote>


    [Red Devil has been killed.]


    [Red Devil has been killed.]</blockquote>


    Notice after notice streamed in, so fast he couldnt even check each one.<blockquote>


    [You have received 720 identical, simultaneous notices.]</blockquote>


    Then, the Endless Sky Crystal crumbled into dust.


    Ah this


    It quickly became apparent that Isabel had failed to control her strength. Weakness swept through his body.


    So dizzy.


    He couldnt check all the notices. Not long after Itachi fell unconscious, Kim Hyukjin followed suit.

 Chapter 274

    Chapter 274


    <em>A few minutes ago</em>


    Song Junghye clenched her teeth.


    Pull yourself together!


    Song Junghye watched as the right arm of her right hand man, Kang Woongmin, was ripped off and flung away.


    GAHHH!


    It wasnt official, but in the Blood and Iron Lion, people called him Kang Woongmin the Adamant. That was how unshakable his body was, yet that same body was torn apart like it was paper. Blood fountained from Kang Woongmins shoulder.


    One of the priests grabbed the arm, quickly stowing it in a cryobag. Kang Woongmin stumbled a few steps back.


    Im losing too much blood, he thought, dizzy. Its too strong.


    Red Devil. Because it looked like a goblin, he had underestimated it a little. But the gap between its appearance and actual strength was too great. Those ws were stronger than any monster he had encountered thus far.


    Song Junghye hastily used a skill.<blockquote>


    [Using the skill Protective Barrier.]</blockquote>


    A red barrier covered Kang Woongmins body just before the Red Devil swiped at his left arm.


    <em>Crack!</em>


    Protective Barrier instantly shattered, utterly failing to protect its target. But it did earn a fleeting moment, a fraction of a second. Kang Woongmin flung himself backwards, rolling several times on the ground and avoiding additional injury. Heals from the priests stopped the bleeding.


    My arm getting cut off isnt important right now.


    An arm or two could be reattached without issue. That was the world in which they now lived.


    The problem is whether we can get out of here alive.


    Kang Woongmin turned to his guildmaster.


    Please run.


    Run? echoed Song Junghye, anger on her face. She pped Kang Woongmin on the cheek. Did you just tell me to run?


    For Woongmin, a tank, her palm didnt hurt that much.


    Its too dangerous. Even if we put in everything we have, we wont be able to defeat a single one of these things.


    Jung Sangchul took his side. No poisons are effective on them.


    How can you say such pathetic crap? Do you even realize how much I pay you?


    Ill earn my wage. Kang Woongmin gritted his teeth. I will buy you time, so please run away, Guildmaster.


    Song Junghye shook with rage. In the sky far above her flew a helicopter. Inside, there was sure to be a reporter eager to film the Blood and Irons heroic exploits.


    There are reporters watching! If I run away, whatll that make me?!


    Embarrassment is momentary. Your life is more important.


    Just then, a scream split the air. One of the Blood and Iron Lions main tanks, Kim Sucheol, was decapitated. The Red Devil licked greedily at his gushing neck like the devil it was.


    Goosebumps rose on Kang Woongmins back. From the feeding Red Devil came an air of leisure. It didnt even seem to consider them its enemies.


    Please r he began to say, but then, a miracle urred.


    From the sky, descended a sword. That sword prated the Red Devils head and body.


    Like heavenly retribution.


    The heavens helped us?


    Kang Woongmin bellowed a split secondter, HEAL HIM! Right now!


    Less than five seconds had psed since Sucheol was decapitated. Normally, around five outstanding priests could revive him if treated within ten seconds. The world was different now. You could still survive after getting your head cut off.


    Song Junghye barked, Heal your arm first.


    No.


    I said, heal your arm first!


    Kang Woongmin was Song Junghyes right arm. And to her, Kang Woongmins right arm was more important than the main tank Kim Sucheols life.


    Kang Woongmin clenched his teeth.


    Theres no time.


    He had no choice but to disobey hermand. A severed arm could be healed even after some time had passedit was safely stowed in a cryobag and would be fine for a few hours.


    Kang Woongmin screamed at the dithering priests. Right now, Kim Sucheol came first.


    This is an ORDER! HURRY! Ill take responsibility!


    The priests scrambled to press Kim Sucheols severed head onto his neck. Five of them closed their eyes in unison and pulsed holy power for five seconds.


    Chance of survival: 50%.


    Please. Live.


    He felt Song Junghyes gaze as she trembled in rage hot on his back.


    I apologize.


    But those who could be saved should be saved. And in a stroke of true fortune, Kim Sucheol regained consciousness.


    Move him to the hospital, said Woongmin.


    He had kept his life, but recovering from the grievous injury was another issue. Kim Sucheol was transferred to Sungshin Hospital.


    * * *


    * * *


    The Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, Song Kiyeol, went into the fight with the Red Devils fully prepared to lose his life. It was possible that a portion of Taeguk Shield would be killed. Even he, a tank, might die. The opponent was strong enough to make Kim Hyukjin nervous. Of course Kiyeol needed to be resolved to die.


    What in the


    So even now, with the reporters cameras shing non-stop into his eyes, he was still reeling in shock.


    How in the world did you defeat the Red Devils?


    I consider this an achievement brought about not just by the perilous efforts of Taeguk Shield, but countless other yers.


    Of course, he didnt think that at all.


    What happened, exactly?


    He had the faint impression that swords had fallen from the sky, but it felt like a distant dream. Song Kiyeol guessed this was most likely the effect of Kim Hyukjins Cognitive Dissonance.


    So that means that Kim Hyukjin hunted all the Red Devils single-handedly? Hundreds of them?


    That seemed to be the case. It was like the entirety of South Korea was having a dream. Everyone saw the swords descending from the sky, but not many remembered it.


    How truly amazing. An increasing number of people are calling Taeguk Shield the heroes of Korea. What are your thoughts on that?


    That is undeserved. Countless yers stood against the Red Devils. I think of them all as heroes.


    Song Kiyeol meant it. It was honest by necessity, because the truth was, he hadnt done a single thing. And because he was so sincere, his sincerity traveled along the electrical wires of broadcast and Inte across the whole of Korea, triggering a wave of grandiose article after article.


    Humblest Man Ever


    The Heroic Guildmaster of Taeguk Shield!


    Making Miracles in Korea


    * * *


    Song Kiyeol went to Sungshin Hospitals VVIP ward.


    Well I went ahead and gave the interview for now, but Im still numb.


    Laying on the hospital bed was Kim Hyukjin. Right after Isabel used Infinite Sword Rain, Hyukjin lost consciousness and now needed to recover his strength.


    Oh, right. How are you doing?


    Song Kiyeol held out a ss of orange juice to Hyukjin, who shook his head.


    I still cant muster any strength in my limbs, so I cant move.


    How did you end up in such a state?


    I overexerted myself.


    More exactly, Isabel was too strong.


    As I thought


    What Kiyeol wanted to say was, You mean you can hack down hundreds of Red Devils at once by overexerting yourself? And when they were scattered over arge area, at that? But he held his tongue.


    Common sense never applied to him to begin with.


    On the bed, Kim Hyukjin heard a voice.


    (Cmon, Husband. Im sorry. I <em>might </em>have forgotten how weak you were and identally used too much strength.)


    Isabel exerted more strength than what was within the Endless Sky Crystal, putting an incredible burden on Hyukjins body.


    My second heart nearly shattered.


    (B-But it didnt. It didnt break, so you can recover with some rest. H-Heheh.) Isabelughed awkwardly. (But really, this is because youre too weak! How should I have known your body would break like this because I used a tiny speck of strength? This is your fau)


    She stopped in the middle of consoling herself, ultimately acknowledging her fault.


    (I messed up. I should have been more considerate of your weakness.)


    Hyukjin asked inwardly, But how did you do it? I heard a notice about Wide-Area Cognitive Distortion.


    (I didnt think Cognitive Dissonance would cut it, so I went straight to Distortion.)


    Whats that?


    (The higher version of Cognitive Dissonance. If Im right, people probably think the Red Devils were defeated by the hard work of many yers.)


    Hyukjin was stunned. This wasnt just making people unable to recognize something, but full-on distorting their memories. He squashed the urge to ask, I thought you were a sword? That was Isabels most sensitive subject, and trodding on it would invite her wrath. Isabel thought of herself as an outstanding sword, and for some reason, she considered magic superficial trickery.


    But this is way too much to be called superficial trickery.


    <em>No. No. Isabel is an outstanding sword, </em>Hyukjin chanted in his mind, branding in the words. He was mentally connected to Isabel, and she could read most of his thoughts.


    He heard a voice.


    ...jin?


    Ah. I apologize, Im really not in good condition.


    Song Kiyeol shook his head. No, Im afraid Ive burdened you needlessly with my worries. In any case, it seems that weve somehow ended up reaping most of the credit for hunting the Red Devils.


    That was what we signed a contract for.


    But truthfully, we didnt do anything.


    Things are simply going as per our contract.


    Still, Song Kiyeol felt that Kim Hyukjin had earned too little from this incident.


    ...


    He silently stared at the man on the bed in a daze.


    Why are you looking at me like that?


    N-Nothing. Its just I suddenly thought that it was a relief someone like you was endowed with such strength.


    Of course, Song Kiyeols thoughts werepletely off-mark. After Song Kiyeol left, Hyukjin opened his Status Window.<blockquote>


    [Status Window]


    Name: Kim Hyukjin (yer)


    Level: 44


    Contracted Guardian: [Nameless Observer]


    Title: [Pioneer of Obliteration] [Excellent yer] [First Adversary] [Pure Person of Fire] [Phantom Thief Squirrel''s Master] [Starting Sovereign] [Starting Fighter] [Thousand Dog Master]


    Dungeon title: [True Ruler of the Gran Seoul Dungeon] [True Ruler of the Predator Tree Colony]


    Innate ability: [Eye of Perception] [Sword of Insight] [Assimtion]


    Special ability: [Absorption] [Mettle] [Eye for an Eye, Tooth for a Tooth] [Immortal Fleet]


    Trait: Divine Bow Physique, Divine Sword Physique, Endless Sky Physique


    Strength: 24


    Intelligence: 24


    Agility: 30


    Perception: 24


    Constitution: 24


    Willpower: 62(+30)


    Bonus stats: 10


    Random stats: 5


    Undistributed stats: 15</blockquote>


    Not only had he passed the level 30-40 Hell Phase, but his level shot up to 44 at once. At this point, he was probably the highest level yer worldwide.


    Isabel hunted over seven hundred Red Devils.


    And instantly, all at once.


    Thats insane.


    She had created such a result, and yet his body was only messed up enough to require rest to recover. Should he be calling it a relief?


    Right before he passed out, he heard the following notice:<blockquote>


    [The EXP limit has been activated.]


    [EXP cannot be acquired.]</blockquote>


    He hadnt even known such a notice existed, but apparently, there was such a thing as an EXP limit. From the looks of it, the System would limit EXP gain if too much EXP was acquired in a single moment.


    5 level ups. My god.


    Isabel, who had been silent for a bitseemingly out of embarrassmentspoke again.


    (Not just that. Check Pioneer of Obliteration.)


    Pioneer of Obliteration?


    (Yeah. I obliterated them all in one go. A feat like that should have influenced the title, too.)


    Even though it was done by you and not me?


    (Youre my pactee, Husband!)


    Seemingly implying that even though she was sorry to have damaged her husbands body, she still did something great and worthy of praise, Isabel kepting up with new justifications of her actions.


    Hyukjin opened up Pioneer of Obliteration.<blockquote>


    [Obliteration]<ol><li>


    yer</li></ol>


    When Obliteration is used on a lower level yer, the yer is either stripped of their yer rights, or their yer abilities will be reduced.<ol start="2"><li>


    Non-yer</li></ol>


    When Obliteration is used on a non-yer, their potential to awaken as a yer will either be lost or reduced.</blockquote>


    The use conditions had changed. Originally, he could only use Obliteration on a yer or non-yer in critical condition, but now, it was lower level yer. That meant he could use the authority even without reducing them to critical condition first.


    As Hyukjin was thinking about the changes to Obliteration, he felt someone secretly enter his hospital room.


    Stealth?


    His Eye of Perception had grown along with his level. He could feel their presence clearly.


    So this is how you wanna do it after all, huh.


    Hyukjin grinned.


    I clearly remember telling you its not that I cant kill you, but that Im choosing not to.


    He could tell who the other person wasthe Poisoned Dagger, Jung Sangchul. He must be here to attempt an assassination while Kim Hyukjin was weakened.


    But that wasnt the situation. To Hyukjins surprise, Jung Sangchul got to his knees in front of him.

 Chapter 275

    Chapter 275


    In Hyukjins past, the Poisoned Dagger was the Ranker who had served as the Blood and Iron Queens close confidant and left hand. Jung Sangchul yed a crucial role in assisting Song Junghye in the Naval Battle of Bali, and would continue to do so. As Hyukjin watched, that very same yer went on his knees in front of him.


    <em>Thump.</em>


    Kneeling, Jung Sangchul bowed his head low.


    Please take me in.


    Hyukjin slowly pushed himself upright.


    What do you mean by this?


    I will no longer serve Song Junghye.


    This hadnt happened in the past.


    Why?


    Song Junghye is a piece of trash who has no dignity as a human being.


    Lets be honest, I dont think youre one to say that.


    ...


    Jung Sangchul closed his mouth for a moment, then nodded.


    Youre right.


    In front of the Guardian Tower, you attempted to kill the thief Gu Sungmin without hesitation, and if you hadnt had a change of heart, you would have tried to kill me.


    Yes. I have no excuse.


    Not only that, but I imagine youve killed quite a few people.


    ...


    Hyukjin gave him a way out. Granted, you did all that on orders.


    But even if he was following an order, it didnt erase his sin. However, Hyukjin had no intention of weighing the other persons sins. That job fell to the jury, not him.


    So what was it this time? An order to kill me?


    She said I should kill you if I could find an opportunity to do so.


    Then why are you on the ground?


    Jung Sangchul began his story. One of my friends was almost killed by a Red Devil in thest battle. His name is Kim Sucheol.


    Kim Sucheol. Kim Sucheol. Kim Sucheol. Hyukjin scanned his memories, but he couldnt remember anyone with that name. Who was Kim Sucheol?


    Hes a Blood and Iron Lion guild member.


    I see.


    Kim Sucheol was likely someone who was either kicked out or killed in a raid before Blood and Iron Lion became famous, seeing as Hyukjin had zero recollection of him.


    So what does Kim Sucheol have to do with youing to me?


    Song Junghye told me to kill Sucheol.


    Why?


    Because she felt that her dignity was wounded because of Sucheol.


    Once Hyukjin heard the whole story, he understood the situation.


    Then she should punish Kang Woongminhes the one who ignored her order. Whyd she go after the innocent Kim Sucheol?


    Because we dont know yet if Sucheol will be able to keep ying. To Song Junghye, Sucheol is just a broken part to be reced.


    Apparently, the mans head was cut off and reattached.


    In this period, it wont be easy to recover from that.


    The priests werent at that level yet. Kim Sucheol was probably barely clinging to life.


    And itll be even harder for him to make it big as a yer.


    That must be why Song Junghye tried to kill off someone who would ultimately be baggage to her. What Sangchul said about Song Junghye seeing the unfortunate man as a part to be reced was probably true, too.


    Also, if Sucheol stays alive, shell have to give him a hugepensation.


    ...


    Hyukjin suddenly thought of his older sister. In the past, Ahyoung worked at Sungshin, at that time headed by Song Junghye. Be it coincidence or not, Ahyoung became sick with leukemia, and what she received aspensation was a pathetic pittance.


    That wasntpensation, but ridicule.


    Instead of: <em>We sincerely apologize. We dont know how topensate you,</em> what they got was, <em>Take this and get out of our sight, losers. </em>That was what it felt like.


    Shes exactly the same as before.


    Hyukjin once again came to the conclusion that hed done well to choose Song Kiyeol over Song Junghye.


    Is Song Junghye aware of the fact that you and Sucheol are friends?


    ...No.


    In other words


    She doesnt give a rats ass about the rtionships between her subordinates, does she?


    Truth be told, there wasnt really a reason for her to care. But if she was someone with half an eye and even a little interest in the people who were working for her, she should have at least known they were friends.


    Considering shed given an order to kill a friend, Jung Sangchuls feelings were understandable.


    I guess you could kill strangers without blinking an eye, but you cant kill a friend.


    ...This will sound like an excuse, but it wasnt easy for me to kill strangers, either.


    He was telling the truth.<blockquote>


    Summary: Poisoned Dagger Drowning in Guilt</blockquote>


    Hyukjin nodded. I understand your feelings. But I have no intention of expanding my guild any further.


    I wouldnt even dare to dream of that.


    What is it that you want?


    Please give me an order.


    What kind of order?


    Jung Sangchul raised his head, looking straight into Hyukjins eyes.


    An order to kill Song Junghye. Please.


    * * *


    * * *


    Long story short, Kim Hyukjin didnt ept Jung Sangchuls request. It wasnt like he was terribly fond of Song Junghye, but he didnt want tomit murder by proxy.


    At least not now. Its not the right time.


    ...


    Jung Sangchul. You can simply stay by Song Junghyes side, just as youve been doing.


    ...Are you telling me to be a spy?


    Im d youre quick on the uptake. Stay by her side and report each and every move she makes. Hyukjin smiled. Because I will make life far more painful for her than being killed now.


    Killing someone wasnt always the answer. In addition, Song Junghye had close ties to the Great Explorer Jackson. If he killed her now, that connection would be severed.


    The Poisoned Dagger turned traitor?


    Had that also happened in the past?


    The Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon break wasnt supposed to happen.


    But it did, triggering incidents that hadnt urred before, including an incident that led to Jung Sangchuls betrayal.


    What an interesting turn of events.


    With this, he gained another card in his deckthe Poisoned Dagger Jung Sangchul. Now, it was up to him to decide how to make use of this card.


    Ah. Youll also have to act like you killed Kim Sucheol. That way, you wont lose Song Junghyes trust.


    ...


    Ill take care of things on that end for you.


    After sending out Jang Sungchul, Hyukjin called Song Kiyeol. This was Sungshin Hospital, and everything was settled with lightning speed. As far as the official documents were concerned, Kim Sucheol was a dead man.


    The night deepened, and the clock hit 11:30. Senia appeared.


    How long do you n onying in bed?


    Its only been two days.


    Youre not going to y?


    Her wings trembled. The angel seldom showed her feelings, but this time, he was able to skim her emotions.<blockquote>


    State: Anger</blockquote>


    There was still a big difference in skill between them, so he could only catch a surface glimpse. He could only read one word. Anger.


    Are you mad?


    Me? Im not mad at all.


    I think you are though.


    Theres no reason for me to be mad.


    Senia shuffled over to Kim Hyukjin, staring at him the entire time. Then, she pulled out an item.


    A Superior Cure Potion?


    It should be able to cure your overwhelming fatigue.


    Is an Intermediate Administrator allowed to give me this? Isn''t this too direct an involvement?


    I have a lot of Coins, so its okay.


    Direct involvement came with a high price tag. Senia was sure to have gouged a hefty chunk of her funds to give him this one item.


    yer Kim Hyukjin is my business partner. But you are currently unable to conduct business because of the condition of your body. Do you acknowledge that?


    It sort of felt like Senia was talking a bit faster than usual.


    Answer me. Do you acknowledge that?


    I do.


    This is an obvious loss on my part. I need to produce content, but how do you think I can do that if the person Im streaming is in this sorry state?


    You can just stream another yer.


    How can you say such a sad th!


    Senia swallowed her words.


    Why would I say that?


    Why did she think it was sad? Exclusive contracts werent limited to one yer anyway. A yer in an exclusive contract could only be streamed by one Intermediate Administrator, but an Intermediate Administrator could make exclusive contracts with multiple yers.


    Its not cost-effective to go with another yer. She stuffed the superior potion in Hyukjins hands. Using this one superior potion is far better than putting in the time and effort to dig up another yer and produce content with them.


    ...


    Hurry and drink it and get to work.


    A little stupefied, Hyukjinughed. He wouldnt look a gift horse in the mouth.


    Thanks.


    I didnt give it to you to get thanks. Work.


    Hyukjin used the superior potion. He felt the cracks in his second heart healing. As one would expect, for a level 39no, level 44 nowyer, a superior potion was pretty much a miracle drug.


    Even after drinking just one half of the vial, he made a full recovery.


    I can let Kim Sucheol use the rest.


    Even half a vial would be able to drag Kim Sucheol back from deaths door. If someone were to ask Hyukjin why he would use such a valuable item on a stranger, he would have no answer to give. Perhaps because he was reminded of his sister?


    He decided to help.


    * * *


    Fully recovered, Kim Hyukjin headed to Taeguk Shields headquarters. Song Kiyeol happened to be in his office, where the two of them sat face to face.


    Ivee to give you a warning.


    What is it?


    Song Kiyeol gulped. People might think of him as the hero of Korea, but he knew he wasnt the true hero. The true hero was in front of him, and that person was giving him a warning. It felt like all his hairs were standing on end.


    Miss Song Junghye. Her harassment towards me is still just cute, but


    ...


    She sent an assassin after me again. To be honest, it was almost dangerous.


    If Jung Sangchul hadnt turned traitor, things might have gotten a little dicey. Just like how the healthy Kim Hyukjin was able to kill the exhausted casper, the healthy Jung Sangchul may have been able to kill the injured Kim Hyukjin.


    Song Kiyeol felt his head reel.


    Would he really have been in danger?


    He doubted it. He was certain Kim Hyukjin had some kind of countermeasure in ce and led Junghye into doing exactly what he wanted. The person before him was none other than Kim Hyukjin, after all. As a result, Kim Hyukjin was now armed with a pretext.


    Thats why I sent a warning note.


    A warning note?


    That moment, the office door flew open.


    Oppa! Do you know anything aboutKim Hyukjin?


    It seemed that even though Song Junghye normally snubbed her older brother, when shit went down, the only person she could turn to was her brother. She had a piece of paper in her hand.


    <em>Im watching. Tread carefully.</em>


    The note was found on Song Junghyes bedpost, ced there by Kim Darong at Hyukjins request. Upon discovering it, the only thing Song Junghye could think was that anyone who could secretly ce a note on her bedpost could just as easily assassinate her.


    Song Junghye didnt mince words.


    Kim Hyukjin. Was it you?


    What was?


    This note, did you put it there?


    Who knows? It might have been me, it might have not been me. As if something suddenly urred to him, he said, I <em>do </em>have an incredibly amazing assassin by my side.


    That assassin was throwing air kicks and punches on top of Hyukjins shoulder right now, music notes dancing atop his head. Of course, the little squirrel was stealthed and couldnt be seen by Song Junghye.


    So are you the one who sent it or not?


    Whatll you do if I did? He shook his head. Even if it was me, theres nothing you can do. And if it wasnt me, then youre just using someone with no evidence. How are you leading Blood and Iron Lion with such an empty head?


    Are you done? spat Song Junghye.


    Hyukjin grinned. If I were an assassin, I would have killed you in the time it took to send that note.


    ...


    Both of the Song siblings grew quiet, utterly crushed by Hyukjins Mettle. Even the doting Song Kiyeol was unable to interject.


    You know, I was going to take it as the actions of a foolish child. Shaking his head, he said, But children with no manners whatsoever need to be punished.


    He took a few steps closer to Song Junghye.


    St-Stay back.


    I wonder where your next destination will be.


    Suddenly, his thoughts turned to his older sister again. If Sungshin had been under Song Kiyeols management instead, how would they have treated his sister? Sungshin had basically tossed her aside. Just like Blood and Iron Lions Kim Sucheol.


    Youre Kiyeols little sister, so I wont kill you.


    Instead, he would squash her far more thoroughly, down to her very roots. The intel he received from Jung Sangchul said that Song Junghyes next goal was a ce Hyukjin had been considering going to, the Nanba Terminal Dungeon in Japan.


    Say goodbye to your easy days of ying, Song Junghye. Ill put my mind to harassing you. Some people only see straight when they experience suffering first-hand.


    Following that heated exchange, Song Junghye stormed out of the room, swearing again and again to herself that she would kill that bastard.


    Hyukjin turned to Song Kiyeol.


    Im sorry, but I have no choice. Your sister is the one who sent an assassin after me first and tried to kill me by cooperating with Chinas Xu Xin.


    I know. Im just grateful that youre sparing her life.


    Song Kiyeols Achilles heel was his sister. Hyukjin wasnt going to fault him for that. When it came to theplicated realm of feelings, there were definitely things in this world that couldnt be exined logically.


    But Are you going to Nanba Terminal just to harass Junghye?


    Song Kiyeol didnt think that could be the case. The Kim Hyukjin he knew operated purely with an eye for practical benefits. He was absolutely not the kind of person to waste time just to annoy someone.


    Before Hyukjin could answer, someone else entered his office.


    Would it be alright if I exined that?


    It was the Precognitive Dreamer Ham Sohyun, seated on a wheelchair. Hyukjin looked at the person who was pushing her wheelchair.


    Itachi?


    The Japanese astrologist Itachi and the Korean Precognitive Dreamer were together in one ce. Both of them looked at Kim Hyukjin.


    Upon seeing Hyukjin, Itachis eyes began to turn gold.

 Chapter 276

    Chapter 276


    Ham Sohyun was about to talk, but then she closed her mouth. The golden-eyed Itachi began to speak. They werent ordinary words.


    Hyukjin could tell that Itachi was delivering a prophecy right now.


    <em>A door opens where no door would have opened.</em>


    <em>And a path leads to that which would have remained undiscovered.</em>


    <em>The fate of he who has the authority of Gold be intertwined.</em>


    Hyukjinmitted the three sentences to memory. Itachis eyes returned to normal.


    What you said is certainly true, Sohyun, the astrologist confirmed.


    What did Miss Ham say?


    That looking at you feels like peering into the darkness, like seeing a face without truly seeing one.


    Hyukjin thought for a moment.


    Thats how I feel when I see the Demon King.


    Apparently, seers got the same feeling looking at him that he got from looking at the Demon King.


    Its nice to meet you. My name is Itachi.


    In front of him was the genius astrologist of Japan. He felt restless upon seeing this seer, who was destined to die early in histe 20s. Hyukjin wanted to confirm his suspicions.


    Im Kim Hyukjin. Itachi, Ive wanted to meet you.


    Me?


    Yes. There are a few things Id like to know.


    Everyone took a seat first. Song Kiyeol stayed out of the conversation, focusing on what the others were saying.


    What would you like to know? asked Itachi.


    Have you made a contract with a casper?


    ...


    Itachi fell silent, closing his eyes in thought before opening his mouth to answer.


    Yes. I see you know many things.


    It seems you already know what kind of Intermediate Administrators caspers are.


    In the worst case scenario, Ill have my body stolen and my mind erased.


    Why did you establish a contract with a casper despite knowing that?


    Because that is the fate of my ss.


    In other words, Itachi the Astrologist could only exist if he was contracted with a casper.


    Is your ss that important? More important than your life?


    Yes.


    Howe?


    Itachi could see the future. It was possible he was aware he would die early. So why, then, did he have a contract with a casper? He didnt seem to be an unknowing victim, like Sunhwa.


    Because it is ecstasy.


    Ecstasy, you say.


    Drug addicts are unable to tear themselves away from drugs, despite knowing it will lead to their ruin.


    Seeing the future is like a drug?


    Yes, at least to me. Itachi wrapped his arms around himself. It is a sensation far more delightful than ejaction.


    ...


    When a prophecyes to be, I am ovee with an ecstasy far more wonderful than an orgasm.


    ...Ah.


    Hyukjin was left at a loss for words. Itachis way of speaking was a little difficult to adjust to. The young astrologist quivered.


    And recently, I saw the fulfillment of yet another prophecy.


    That was the precognitive note that Ham Sohyun had written.


    <em>A false, sweet fragrance shall permeate you.</em>


    <em>The prophecy of the true seer dothe to be.</em>


    I, too, saw a simr star. That day, a certain star surged high into the sky.


    Song Kiyeol exined for Hyukjins benefit, I think that prophecy was referring to what happened in the patisserie in Yangpyeong. That day, Miss Ham gave me a precognitive note with those words.


    Itachi nodded.


    You fulfilled the prophecy.


    I see.


    That day in the patisserie, he hunted a casper, thus eliminating a dormant danger to Sunhwas life. That seemed to be what Itachi meant by a certain star surged high into the sky. With the threat to her life eliminated, Sunhwa could grow undeterred.


    And one more thing. Itachi looked straight at Hyukjin. The great red misfortune that urred in Korea I already knew about it.


    You must be referring to the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeons break.


    Yes. But it happened too fast.


    Hyukjin knew that, too. Originally, the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon opened on February 28, 2019. Wings and Taeguk Shield cleared it on March 28, 2019. Even after its opening, the dungeon had a one month leeway interval. Hyukjin found it strange, as well.


    As if someone induced it.


    Induced? Is that possible?


    Let me make an analogy. Think about it like a small table clock.


    A small table clock. Itachi raised his fingers.


    Move the minute hand like so, like so.


    He moved his finger counterclockwise.


    And on, and on.


    The speed at which his finger moved grew faster and faster, until his finger was drawing quick circles in the air.


    Like turning back time by force.


    And youre saying you had that kind of feeling.


    I dont know if thats a natural phenomenon, or something someone artificially caused, but thats how it felt to me.


    Ham Sohyun added, I felt something simr as well. I think some massive power descended upon that ce. I had a nightmare.


    Two seers who werent supposed to meet were now in one ce, saying the same thing.


    The Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon wasnt a simple break.


    There was some external force. He needed to look into it.


    Ham Sohyun spoke up again. If you dont mind, may I go back to what I was going to say earlier?


    Truthfully, that was what Song Kiyeol had been most curious about. Was Kim Hyukjin truly going to Nanba Terminal just to harass Junghye? Ham Sohyun seemed to know the answer to that question. At Hyukjins nod, she borated.


    A great power is slumbering in Nanba Terminal.


    ...


    Kim Hyukjin, you will --- --- ---- that power.


    Once again, Hyukjin was fascinated by Ham Sohyuns ability. This was something he had heard by Jung Sangchul after nting the assassin as a spy. There was a fleet slumbering in Nanba Terminal. In the past, this wasnt known, but there was apparently some kind of hidden piece there, and Jackson told Song Junghye about it.


    Hyukjin shrugged, then stared at Kiyeol. As youve just heard, Im going to Japan in order to acquire that power.


    To be more precise, he was going there to steal what Song Junghye was supposed to get, or to destroy it if that wasnt possible. He had no intention of letting Song Junghye grow wings.


    And


    One more thing.


    Ill also find out how Jackson got ahold of such intel, and why he gave it to Song Junghye.


    It almost felt like he was ying chess. The whole reason why Hyukjin was admitted to the hospital and needed to recuperate for a while was because he used the Endless Sky Crystal and Isabel unleashed too much strength.


    That Endless Sky Crystal was given to me by Jackson.


    And why did he have to use it?


    There was a reason I had to use it. The Red Devils.


    So why did the Red Devils break free and run rampant far ahead of schedule, so unexpectedly that even an astrologist was shocked?


    I would have been out for the count, and Song Junghye would have gained a new power in the meantime. With Jacksons help.


    It was still too early to say where Jacksons allegiancesy. Was he an ally, or a foe? There was really no way to know. Even so, Hyukjin could hold his own in a battle of wits.


    There was a variable: Senia. A superior potion, to be exact.


    And not just Senia.


    Jung Sangchul, as well.


    Without him, Hyukjin wouldnt have known to go to Nanba Terminal. In two days, Song Junghye would leave for Japan. Hyukjin decided to go at the same time.


    Before that.


    He would visit the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon. He told Ham Sohyun he wanted to go with her, and they went together.


    * * *


    * * *


    A gate had formed at the northern entrance of the stadium. Through it, you could enter the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon. The area around the gate was swarming with reporters, and groups of people were there to take a look.


    The dungeon is activated, like I thought it would be.


    Hyukjin made a cursory scan of the surroundings, but he didnt find anything worth noting. He walked forward, pushing Ham Sohyuns wheelchair.


    Its nice to feel the outside breeze for the first time in a while.


    I thought you went on a lot of walks with Miss Cheon Sooji.


    Sure, but I cant go any further than the hospital grounds.


    Why?


    I am an important resource of Taeguk Shield. And because Im so weak physically, Im susceptible to ambushes. Its because youre here that Im able to go out. There isnt a person out there who can slip under your radar and assassinate me.


    Hyukjin tilted his head.


    Someone is targeting you?


    Guildmaster Song Kiyeol seems to think so, yes.


    A certain face came to mind.


    Song Junghye.


    There was no other likely suspect. Song Kiyeol already knew. He knew his little sister was capable of killing someone. It might even be that Song Kiyeol was afraid that such a thing would happen.


    Hes weak.


    Song Junghye was Song Kiyeols big weakness.


    As his business partner


    Crushing Song Junghye seemed to be the right move after all.


    The area around the Sangam World Cup Stadium was arge, well-maintained park. Since the formation of the dungeon, hardly anyone was out picking on the grass, but the park itself was neat and tidy. For the first time in a while, Ham Sohyun felt as though she was out on an outing.


    The smell of the wind, the dirt, she enjoyed it all. Until


    Mr. Kim Hyukjin.


    Ham Sohyun shivered.


    Darkness is approaching.


    Darkness?


    She pointed with a trembling finger at a handsome blonde man who was walking their way.


    It was the Great Explorer, Jackson.


    Jackson is the darkness?


    You said Im darkness, too, Hyukjin said.


    This is a different kind of darkness. Your darkness is dark, but not scary.


    After saying that, the woman in the wheelchair fainted. It was as though a future Ham Sohyun could not handle right now had approached.


    Oh dear, did I cause some difort? said Jackson.


    Jackson. Why are you here?


    The Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon broke far faster than I expected, you see.


    Jackson hade to investigate because of the same thing?


    Where did you get the Endless Sky Crystal?


    In the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon.


    It was already active at that time?


    Yes. I activated it, Jackson said with zero qualms. I am an explorer, and I can open new dungeons by satisfying various conditions.


    And you got the Endless Sky Crystal there?


    The break urred at the same time. Ah, it wasnt because of the Endless Sky Crystal. Someone made this dungeon break by force.


    Hyukjin recalled the state Jackson had been in when visiting his house. To say he looked awful was no exaggeration. It would add up if Jackson had barely escaped the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon while exploring it.


    Break by force? Is that possible?


    It is.


    Then who did it?


    Ham Sohyuns finger twitched. Very quietly, so quiet no one could hear, she mumbled, You cant.


    Heedless of her warning, Jackson continued, I dont know his exact name or identity, either.


    ...


    For now, Ive been calling him the Demon King.


    The Demon King?


    Its not his real name. Thats just what Im calling him. Because there are traces of the Demon King all over the world.


    Jackson looked straight into Hyukjins eyes.


    I am certain that the Demon Kings existence will greatly interfere with the person whose head I must anoint with oil, the king I have chosen.


    Jacksons eyes seemed to be saying, The king Ive chosen is you.


    As a result, I have no choice but to chase the Demon Kings footsteps. Thats also the reason why Im back at the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon.


    Just then, blood fountained from Jacksons neck. The Great Explorers head rolled to the ground.


    Ham Sohyun convulsed, saliva dripping from her mouth. Unconscious, she screamed, The darkness the darkness THE DARKNESS IS COMING!

 Chapter 277

    Chapter 277


    You sure are ying around, someone said.


    As usual, Hyukjin couldnt see the face of the man who was walking towards him. This person with the unrecognizable face, this unknown existence who might not even be a human, was the Demon King.


    Whats fascinating


    was that he could feel that the decapitated Jackson was still alive.


    Hes not dead.


    This had to be the reason for the subtle sense of dj vu and incongruity he felt whenever he saw Jackson.


    Its because this Jackson isnt the real Jackson.


    Jackson was still alive. Jacksons severed head moved on its own, turning to stare at the Demon King.


    Darn, we ended up meeting after all. Demon King.


    Demon King? Not a bad name.


    The Demon King walked closer to Hyukjin, then ground his foot into Jacksons head.


    Fuck off. Youre a bother.


    Jacksons head exploded. To Hyukjins fascination, Jacksons head disappeared like a cloud of smoke, then his body followed suit, as if scattered by the wind. And yet, the explorers voice could still be heard.


    Guess Ill have to be more careful from now on, though I did think this was a trap set up by you. Its just that the bait called Kim Hyukjin was too tempting.


    Hyukjin might not be able to follow what Jackson said, but he did grasp the situation.


    The Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon really was broken by the Demon King.


    How that was done, Hyukjin didnt know.


    So he called Jackson and me here.


    The Demon King predicted both Jackson, an explorer, and Hyukjin, an observer, woulde here and left them to investigate.


    Why did he bother doing something so troublesome?


    The answer came to Hyukjin easily. The hint was Jacksons greeting to the Demon King.


    <em>Darn, we ended up meeting after all. Demon King.</em>


    Bybining those words and the situation, he could infer everything.


    The Demon King was looking for Jackson, and Jackson had been avoiding him.


    And so, the Demon King manipted Jackson and Hyukjin into meeting by breaking the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon, then crashed their meeting.


    There must be some kind of setting that makes it so he needs to jump through these troublesome hoops.


    There was no way the Demon King couldnt find Jackson with his skills. There was definitely a restriction that forced him to do things this way. It was possible that restriction might even be the Demon Kings weakness.


    One clue acquired.


    The Demon King grinned.


    I can see exactly what youre thinking.


    I could say the same thing.


    The two stared at each other, both smiling. Naturally, it was the Demon King who was more rxed. He was strong, and Hyukjin was weak. Despite his bluff, cold sweat was running down Hyukjins back, induced by the pressure of facing an absolute powerhouse. And his heightened mental capacity was actually making that sensation stronger.


    It was said that you could only see as much as you knew. The increase in his mental power made him feel that overwhelming aura all the more clearly. It felt as though he were being crushed by the pressure. However, his demeanor didnt betray any of that.


    The Demon King nced at the person by Hyukjins side. Do you get off from dating a woman this feeble?


    ...


    He was referring to the unconscious Ham Sohyun. Hyukjin asked, Did you make her faint?


    Me? Why would I do that?


    The Demon King was right. There was no need for him to lift a finger.


    That woman is just so weak that she fainted at the sight of me. He chortled. But well, dont worry. Shell recover soon. You seem to be worried about your lover, as pathetic as she is.


    ...


    The Demon King was being overly kind.


    Hes trying something.


    The Demon King was far from foolish, and kindness suited the man even less. All this talk about having a lover and dating was meaningless. Hyukjin put his hand on Ham Sohyuns shoulder, deciding to dance to the others beat.


    Sorry about this.


    Ham Sohyun might find his touch unwee, but he needed to act a little.


    The Demon King didnt seem to have anticipated Hyukjins response. Huh? he sputtered, looking baffled.


    It wasnt that Hyukjin could see the Demon Kings expression with his eyes. He couldnt see it, but he could <em>feel </em>it. It was a strange feeling. Hyukjin had to meet cunning with cunning, seeking an opening while navigating this conversation. Every trivial thing was a battle of wits to Kim Hyukjin.


    Can you understand the feelings of humans?


    Probing whether Im a human, huh. The Demon King shrugged. Of course I can.


    ...


    Why? Because Im human.


    Hyukjin didnt instantly believe him. There was no way the Demon King was human. Maybe if hed regressed three hundred or so times. No, that level of strength wasnt obtainable through regression alone.


    Im not too pleased that my girlfriend is in this state because of you.


    You mad, bro? You can just kill me if you are, you know?


    Ill do that if I be strong enough one day.


    See you in a hundred years then.


    The Demon King snickered in amusement. Still, he was a lot milder towards Hyukjin than when they first met.


    That probably means Im growing as much as the Demon King wants.


    Last time, Kang Sun-il made off with the Treasure of the Whalekin. By using Hyukjin. In other words, Hyukjin was useful, even to the Demon King.


    And as long as Im useful, he wont kill me.


    Hyukjin saw the Demon Kings intentions as clear as day. It was likely the Demon King specifically used words like lover and dating in order to aggravate Isabel. The Demon King seemed to know about her.


    Isabel. Dont wake up. Or if you do wake up, dont do anything.


    The Demon King took the Treasure of the Whalekin from Hyukjin like taking candy from a baby. Granted, Hyukjin scored the Endless Sky Physique and a verbal promise from the whalekin there, but that didnt change the fact that he was robbed blind. He could not let the same happen to Isabel. Hyukjin had the strong feeling that Isabel should not awaken here.


    The Demon King smirked. I like how quick you are on the uptake.


    Youve never been the friendly type.


    Wanting to protect your bride is very admirable.


    The Demon King read Hyukjins thoughts, just as Hyukjin read the Demon Kings. They both recognized the others deception.


    This time, Hyukjin said, There are things you want. But youre unable to get them yourself. Isnt that why you need me?


    I wont deny it.


    The Demon King acknowledged it with surprising ease. He either decided it was meaningless to hide it, or felt that there was no need to.


    Though, thats not the only reason Im keeping you alive.


    ...


    Watching you makes for an interesting show. It was almost something a Guardian would say. And its pretty cute to see you iling to survive. Like a bug, you know?


    I dont think youve honored this ce with your presence just to watch that bug iling to survive.


    Why do you think Im here?


    To see the face of the Great Explorer.


    Ah. Do people call him the Great Explorer?


    Jackson would be called that in the future, but it wasnt his title now. That was why Hyukjin threw it out there, closely watching the Demon Kings reaction. He wanted to know if the Demon King was a regressor.


    He doesnt seem to know the future.


    It felt different from that.


    Hes not a regressor. Hyukjin ruled out that possibility. If he was a regressor, it wouldnt make sense for him to not know what Jackson looks like.


    Jacksons face was incredibly famous. If the Demon King was a regressor with a lot of interest in ying, there was no way he wouldnt know how the explorer looked. This fact massively cut down the possibility of him being a regressor.


    * * *


    * * *


    Hes also called the Exploring Baptist, Hyukjin supplied.


    Baptist. What a pretentious name.


    A pretentious name?


    Hyukjin didnt take the Demon Kings words at face value. The person in front of him wasnt 100% an ally, only someone who was using Hyukjin when he needed something. The Demon King was only letting Hyukjin live because he was useful or interesting. That was all.


    Hes cooperating nicely.


    The Demon King continued. Anyway, he did a damn good job fleeing from me, and hell be even more careful now.


    Were you trying to kill Jackson today?


    I was trying to obliterate him.


    Why?


    Because hes a bother.


    Jackson possessed far, far less strength as an individual than the Demon King, yet the Demon King called him a bother.


    The Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon break can be called the Demon Kings trap.


    And Jackson had nimbly escaped that trap, a trap that resulted in the deaths of hundreds. There was no official count yet, but at least a thousand people had lost their lives. Because of the Demon Kings trap.


    But just as Hyukjin was thinking about that, the Demon King said, When I got here, the Baptist had already stolen the Endless Sky Crystal. Ah, just FYI, dont pretend you dont know about it. Without the Endless Sky Crystal, theres no way you could have used Infinite Sword Rain.


    That moment, Hyukjin felt a stabbing pain in his chest, as if a needle had shot straight into him.


    Youre right. I was given the Endless Sky Crystal by Jackson.


    The moment the Endless Sky Crystal disappeared, this dungeon was doomed to break.


    Hyukjin sort of got the feeling the Demon King was implying it wasnt his fault that so many people had died.


    Does the Endless Sky Crystal have something to do with the dungeons continued existence?


    Without the Endless Sky Crystal, the dungeon itself will cease to exist.


    Then whatll happen to the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon?


    Itll probably disappear before long.


    That was a major change from the past. The Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon supplied a great quantity of white mana crystals, which in turn allowed Sungshin to dive into the mana crystal business. But now, that dungeon was gone.


    Hyukjin asked, Do all dungeons have an Endless Sky Crystal?


    Come to think of it, I never gave you permission to ask me questions.


    Hyukjin felt the needle that had prated him earlier rapidly expand, swelling into an agonizing spear.


    ...Ngh!


    You mustve really upped your Willpower, seeing as youre holding on.


    The Demon Kings lips opened wide. Hyukjin couldnt see his face, but he could feel those red lips widening.


    Youre fun to watch.


    Hyukjin could feel it.


    Impletely paralyzed.


    He couldnt move. He was frozen like a fly bound tightly in a spiders web. The Demon King tugged Hyukjins chin from one angle to another, scrutinizing him with an appraising eye. Hyukjin felt a sense of wrongness, like somethingthe Demon Kings aura?was entering his body.


    Very good.


    Hyukjins body crumpled to the ground with a thud.


    Next, try looking for the [Hall of Champions].


    He heard it loud and clear. Hall of Champions. Just like with the Endless Sky, the Demon King left another hint as a parting gift before vanishing.


    It will be different from the Endless Sky.


    Hyukjin sprang to his feet. Once the Demon King left, he felt refreshed. His mind actually felt clearer than before, and there were no traces of that terrible, piercing pain in his chest.


    Huh? He observed his body with Observers Eye. All the tiny cracks in my 2nd heart are gone.


    He had no idea what the Demon King had just done. It felt like some formless energy had been piercing his chest, but his 2nd heart was restored to full health. From the looks of it, he had just received some sort of treatment even better than a superior potion. The Demon King had helped him, boosting his body into top condition.


    Hyukjin grinned.


    Hall of Champions?


    The Endless Sky was a ce hed never even heard of. As a result, he went in there blind and had the Treasure of the Whalekin swiped right out of his hands.


    This time, the cards are stacked in my favor.


    He had already confirmed that the Demon King was not a regressor. He was, at the very least, in a much more advantageous ce than he was in the Endless Sky. This time, he had advance intel. Hopefully, that would let him reap a greater profit from this battle of wits thanst time.


    The Demon King was already gone. Hyukjin had a foggy recollection of his voice.


    <em>Oh, before I forget. Dont trust the Baptist too much.</em>


    Hyukjins phone beeped. It was a message from Jackson.


    Dont trust the Demon King too much.


    The Demon King warned Hyukjin not to trust Jackson, and Jackson warned him not to trust the Demon King. The two of them were saying twopletely different things, with Hyukjin wedged in the middle.


    Alright. But were you being chased by the Demon King, Jackson?


    Yes. Because the Demon King exists in order to kill the Baptist.


    And the Baptist needs to run from the Demon King?


    No. The Baptist needs to install the king and take down the Demon King. Its amon clich, isnt it? The story of a warrior defeating the Demon King.


    After that, Hyukjins battery ran out, and his screen went dark. He slipped his phone into his pocket. As he did so, the woman who had very briefly been his girlfriend came to.


    Are you alright? If you remember what happened just now, I apologize.


    He pretended she was his girlfriend, even though she wasnt. He had even slightly touched her, hoping to knock the Demon King off-kilter.


    I do remember everything. But its okay, Ill take it as a part of your verbal warfare.


    Ham Sohyun went quiet, falling deep into thought. Hyukjin watched her contemte without interrupting. A long time passed.


    This time, it was Ham Sohyun who gave him advice.


    Dont trust the darkness.


    What do you mean by darkness?


    When Ham Sohyun said darkness, there was Jackson, and there was the Demon King. Which of them was the darkness she was referring to?


    The darkness I speak of is Nightmare.


    At the same time, Hyukjins phone loudly went off.


    His phone that had no power.

 Chapter 278

    Chapter 278


    <suicide. Readers, please be advised.>>


    The darkness I speak of is Nightmare.


    Nightmare. That was the massive organization that also went by the name Demon King Army. Before Hyukjin regressed, Seo Joohwan, the person whose death Hyukjin caused, was a lieutenant in the Demon King Army. So was Lau Ding Xue, the Trap Mage who recently got thrashed by Hyukjin.


    I never thought Ham Sohyun would mention Nightmare.


    Was this really abination of coincidences?


    She saw the Demon King, and then she mentioned Nightmare.


    He didnt think this was truly a coincidence. It was also too specific. Ham Sohyun was a Precognitive Dreamer. She had the power to see the future, but not many other particr strengths, something she even said outright to Itachi.


    <em>I have no abilities other than Precognitive Dream.</em>


    How should he put this? Something felt unnatural.


    A phone that rings even though its out of power.


    It was indeed unnatural, something outside of physicalws. Something that was possible only by someones unnatural tinkering.


    Hyukjin also recalled what Jackson said.


    <em>As a result, I have no choice but to chase the Demon Kings footsteps. Thats also the reason why Im back at the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon.</em>


    Chase the Demon Kings footsteps. Earlier, Jackson spoke like he was looking for the Demon King. But the truth was different. Jackson was actually running <em>away</em> from the Demon King, and the Demon King was the one looking for him.


    Thats enough joking around, Hyukjin said.


    When he was met with no response, Hyukjin drew forth his will. From his lips emerged the incantation he had gained in the Yellow Charm Gate, the incantation to shatter fabricated authorities and illusions.<blockquote>


    [<em>May all lies.</em>]


    [<em>Be shattered.</em>]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin saw Ham Sohyun slumped in her chair, exactly as she had appeared after yelling, The darkness ising! She was still unconscious, and looked as though she had never regained consciousness.


    <em>p! p! p!</em>


    You really are amazing.


    Jackson. I see you can use some strange sorcery.


    Dont misunderstand me. I merely wanted to check your qualifications to be a king. Im surprised you can already use an incantation of that level so freely.


    Even ten yearster, the public was unaware that incantations existed. They knew Rankers often murmured some words, but they didnt know those were called incantations. That was a secret privy to only a select few Rankers. But at this point in time, while the vast majority of yers were still in the beginner period, Jackson was talking about incantations.


    Im more surprised you know about incantations.


    In any case, I have no intention of opposing you.


    As Jackson made idle remarks with a smile, Hyukjin fell into deep thought.


    The Demon King knows Jacksons alive.


    If the two were to be categorized by ss, the Demon King was in a far higher ss than Jackson. Kang Sun-il should know that he hadnt been able to fully kill Jackson.


    Why isnt the Demon Kinging back?


    Jackson had reappeared, yet the Demon King was nowhere to be seen after his departure. Hyukjin didnt think he would reach the answer on his own, so he asked directly.


    Why isnt the Demon King showing up again?


    Because Ive already seen him in this ce.


    What does that have to do with him not being here?


    Thats the Baptists special perk. The Demon King loses all authority in ces where Ive encountered him. <em>If </em>I survive the encounter, that is. So the Demon King wont show up here anymore.


    Is that so?


    Then that would mean that the Demon King would always try to kill Jackson on whatever spot they met.


    What an interesting rtionship.


    The Demon King had the overwhelming advantage in absolute strength, but if he was unable to kill Jackson in one go, he would be rendered powerless in the ce they met.


    Jackson. Are you human? Or rather, are you a yer?


    Of course. Im both human and a yer. Would you like to see my ID?


    Hyukjin shook his head. An ID could be easily forged; it was meaningless.


    The Demon King imed he was human as well.


    But Hyukjin didnt think the Demon King was. And now, he suspected the same of Jackson.


    Jacksons not human.


    He decided to move forward under the assumption that Jackson wasnt human. He also couldnt be called a simple yer. Hyukjin came to the conclusion that it would be better to assume he was some other kind of entity.


    Did you distort this ce and make me use an incantation just so you could assess my qualifications?


    Thats part of it. Jackson shrugged. Its also to safely remove the Red Devils still left in the dungeon.


    Isabel hunted approximately 700 Red Devils in one fell swoop. There were originally supposed to be 2,002 of them in the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon. Simple math said there should be around 1,300 of them left.


    I drew from the dungeons power in order to distort your world, you see.


    So something like that is possible.


    Because its a dungeon without its Endless Sky Crystal.


    ...


    This was a new revtion. Hyukjin thought he knew at least everything from the beginner period, but that was merely the colossal misunderstanding of a civil service student. Incantations. The Demon King. The Great Explorer. The Endless Sky Crystal. And so on, and so forth. Everything was new to him.


    Anyway, because Ive siphoned off the dungeons power, itll head towards its end at an elerated pace. Within a few minutes, the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon willpletely cease to be.


    When that happened, the Red Devils inside it would also be wiped out.


    What a meaningful experience today has been. I met the Demon King and also confirmed your king qualifications.


    You seem to still be thinking of me as a king candidate.


    Yes. Ive determined you are the Eastern Star.


    Hyukjin asked one more thing.


    Why is it that youre helping Song Junghye?


    Because she, too, is a king candidate.


    A king candidate?


    Of course, she falls very short inparison to you. No, theres noparison to be made to begin with. Song Junghye doesnt even reach your feet.


    ...


    That being said Jackson smiled wide. There arent only good kings in this world.


    * * *


    * * *


    When Kim Hyukjin erected the Guardian Tower, he thought the Guardian Towers true value would be revealed with the Gwanghwamun Dungeons break. But contrary to his expectations, the Fire Giant scenario urred, and the Guardian Towers value remained unknown.


    A deluge of articles poured out.


    The Guardian Towers True Worth


    DMC Riverview XiPrices Skyrocket!


    In addition, rumors spread that famous yers were based in the DMC Riverview Xi, triggering a massive spike in the prices of homes in the DMC Riverview Xi.


    CEO Song Kiyoungughed.


    The ims you strongly pushed are finally seeing the light.


    I was lucky.


    Song Kiyeol was inwardly happy, too. He had taken an active role in convincing a portion of the residents who were moring about Sungshin taking responsibility if their house prices dropped and hadpensation arranged for them. Thepensation he offered was $200,000-300,000 more than the general market price, and some of the residents were tempted by the sum and epted.


    Thinking this was his chance, Song Kiyeol said, The house prices skyrocketing itself isnt really something to be happy about.


    That so?


    Yes. Because money isnt everything.


    A $1 million condo jumped to $2 million in worth over a single night, and this astronomical climb would probably continue. The DMC Riverview Xi had be the safest apartmentplex in Seoul. The wealthiest people would flow in. But money wasnt that important.


    Weve created an image of foreseeing the future and preparing in advance.


    Thats right. You gave people more than enough warning, and did your part in trying to convince them about the Guardian Tower.


    Despite that, the 2,000-odd people who had been blinded by the profit before their eyes were most likely drowning in regret right now.


    That reminds me of what you said.


    Before, Song Kiyeol said to his grandfather, <em>The idea is to have a ready force that can quickly react to emergency crises. As you saw with the Fire Giants Even stronger monsters will appear in the future. We need people who can create parties on the spot and go out to hunt. If we can gather outstanding yers in one ce, we will be able to react far more strategically in a crisis.</em>


    As he listened, CEO Song thought for the first time that Kiyeol might be a better sessor than Junghye. He also thought that Kiyeol changed a lot after meeting Kim Hyukjin. But to his surprise, what Kiyeol said back then became a reality, and in only three months time.


    Im proud of you.


    Song Kiyeols heart soared. He never thought hed ever hear such words of praise from his grandfather. Kiyeol had grown frustrated from never being able to break free from his deceased fathers shadow, but now, he was even gettingpliments.


    Lets not get arrogant.


    Kiyeol considered his modesty one of his strengths. He didnt forget that the achievements of today didnt stem from his keen judgment, but that of Kim Hyukjins. It was because of Kim Hyukjin that such things were possible.


    Was it really you guys who took care of the Red Devils?


    Publically, yes.


    Does that mean the truth is different?


    We were also unable to figure out how it was done. However, we see this as an act done by Guildmaster Kim Hyukjin.


    I see. CEO Song took a sip of hot tea. Approximately 700 Red Devils were hunted simultaneously, correct?


    Yes.


    Are there any yers out there capable of such a feat?


    No.


    Are you certain?


    Yes. Im certain of it. I have ties to Michelles forces, as well as yers in Italy and Germany. Im also in contact with the strongest Rankers of Southeast Asia due to our mana crystal operation in Boracay. He continued, choosing his words carefully. I am confident that Korean Rankers are far more skilled than Rankers overseas. At least in PVP, raiding, and dungeon clearing.


    Isnt that everything?


    No. There are also yers who excel in item production, and yers who excel in enhancement. There are also people with an exceptional ability to see the future, and servers that stand out in buffing and healing.


    But in any case, at least when ites to defeating monsters, Taeguk Shield doesnt lose to any Rankers out there?


    Im embarrassed to say so, but yes.


    Song Kiyoungughed cheerfully in response. So what youre saying is monsters the whole of Taeguk Shield could do nothing about were killed single-handedly by Kim Hyukjin?


    ...Yes.


    Hahaha. CEO Song nodded. Youre doing an excellent job choosing between friend and foe.


    Thank you.


    Go on out. Oh, right. Ill entrust the hangover cure business to you.


    I will do my best.


    Meanwhile, there were rumors that some of the people who had actively protestedalmost threatening thepany to cough uppensationand ultimately left after taking the offered money,mitted suicide. Some of them came back to Sungshin, saying they would sue to get their houses back. But when that was publicized, those people were struck with the full force of public sentiment.


    You were happily selling your houses not too long ago, but now you want them to give your houses back? Thomas had never seen such bullshit.


    If you think about it, Sungshins really a ss act.


    They didnt even care to listen when Sungshin was trying so hard to convince them.


    Looking at them, cant you say Sungshin is really a saint?


    Actually, they say it wasnt Sungshin, but Taeguk Shields Guildmaster Song Kiyeol who led the effort.


    Public sentiment tipped strongly in favor of Taeguk Shield and Sungshin. They were able to build up their image, just as Song Kiyeol had intended.


    When the two guildmasters met, Hyukjin said, Taeguk Shield hase out on top as the strongest guild in Korea, no, in the world. In both name and reality.


    ...Are you teasing me? Song Kiyeol said, thinking Hyukjin was displeased. Have we messed up somewhere?


    No, you havent.


    You appear to be in a bad mood.


    The guildmaster of the guild that had firmly imed the position of Koreas strongest guild was excessively conscious of Kim Hyukjins opinion.


    Not really.


    Im d to hear that.


    Ah. I have an appointment to attend, so Ill excuse myself now.


    Kim Hyukjin got up. However, he really did seem displeased.


    I can read Kim Hyukjins expression?


    It was almost fascinating. Even a monster like Kim Hyukjin had feelings? Too curious to resist, Kiyeol asked, What kind of appointment? You dont seem to be very happy about it.


    There was nothing to lose from learning about things that displeased Kim Hyukjin. Getting rid of those factors if possible would be a big help to himself as well, since it would be an opportunity to make himself look good in Kim Hyukjins eyes.


    Ah. Hyukjins lips curled into a frown. I have a meeting with Michael.


    * * *


    Hyukjin was meeting Michael at a restaurant near Sangam, on ount of his VIP statusor rather, his status as Ahyoungs little brother.


    Michael was always nning on opening a restaurant in Korea, you say?


    That was definitely, undeniably hogwash. Some interrogation was in order. Hyukjin entered a certain building, an ordinary Korean restaurant.


    I have a reservation under Kim Ahyoung.


    Come to think of it, his sister was the one who made the reservation. Even the fact that the reservation was under Ahyoungs name and not Michaels displeased Hyukjin.


    You have room 6. Please follow me.


    The door to room 6 opened. Michael and his sister were already seated. Hyukjins eyes fixed themselves on Michael, the biological younger sibling of the Gold Pyramid Michelle. The top-of-the-rank chef Hyukjin suspected had designs on Ahyoung.


    Hrm?


    But Hyukjin discovered something strange about the American chef. Yellow light was glowing above his head.

 Chapter 279

    Chapter 279


    Michael, Michelles biological younger brother, was a chef who would awaken as a cooking-ss yer and be famous worldwide.


    His craft with previously existing ingredients was a given, but he would also grow into a yer who could skillfully create various dishes and incredible buff potions utilizing the many new ingredients that were introduced during the yer era.


    I get that hes a yer...


    There was nothing strange about that.


    ...but whats with that light?


    A yellow light was glowing above his head.


    Is it clickable?


    Upon trying, Hyukjin found that it was.<blockquote>


    [Yellow Light]


    Possesses a clue to obtaining Mrchens Breastte.</blockquote>


    Huh?


    Mrchens Breastte was the legendary item that Michelle had worn in his previous life. It was extremely rare growth-type equipment, and when it was first acquired, it was already legendary grade.


    She was still wearing Mrchens Breastte in the expert period.


    Thinking back, Mrchens Breastte may have even grown into transcendent grade.


    Thats the artifact that saved Michelles life multiple times.


    And Michael had the clue leading to it.


    Why can I see this?


    Hyukjin quicklynded upon the answer. After springing straight to level 44, his Eye of Perception had be a little stronger.


    Am I able to see when yers have some kind of clue as a yellow light?


    Now that he looked at it, that yellow light felt very simr to the yellow energy emanated by the Yellow Charm.


    ...there?


    Ahyoungs voice interrupted his thoughts. He snapped back to attention.


    Why are you just standing there?


    Ah, sorry, Hyukjin said, before exchanging a simple greeting with Michael.


    Looking a little ufortable, Ahyoung asked, Why do you <em>have </em>to meet Michael?


    Because Im a VIP, and because I connected the two of you, of course.


    With his poor grasp of Korean, Michael could only sit and listen to the two talk. Unable to follow what they were saying, he just sat there with a big smile.


    What are they talking about?


    He couldnt read anything from their expressions.


    That young man is a VIP?


    The VIPs of his sister Michelle were usually at least in their 50s. He came here today knowing Kim Hyukjin was Ahyoungs little brother, but he was surprised when he saw the mans youth in the flesh.


    How is this young man a VIP of Michelle?


    His sister had never once made even the smallest request of him. In all his years of life, this was probably the first time she asked him for a favor. And she did it because of this man, no, this youth? A man in his early 20s who had just lost the baby fat on his cheeks?


    Just who in the world is he?


    He wasnt the boss of a corporation, nor the guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, the guild that was said to lead Koreas front line. He couldnt even be called a member of said guild. Michael didnt get his identity whatsoever.


    Noona. Does this guy say he knows anything about Korea? asked Hyukjin.


    He said hes nning on informing himself from now on.


    Hes going to open a restaurant in Korea, but hes only collecting information now?


    Thats because hes confident in his skills.


    Normally, wouldnt you have told me to shut up and eat?


    Hyukjins eyes narrowed into slits. His sisters attitude was very suspicious. He got the feeling she had taken a liking to Michael.


    I introduced you to a teacher, not a man.


    ...What does that have to do with you?


    Anyway.


    He wasnt going to oppose her dating someone and knew he had no right to interfere, but he still needed to find out more about Michael. She was the family he had regained in a truly miraculous stroke of luck.


    Hyukjin suddenly remembered something and eximed out loud, Right, I had this. He took out a Trantion Marble and handed it to Michael, whose expression brightened. With a shortugh, Hyukjin apologized. Sorry, I forgot I had this.


    Its fine, it happens.


    Michaelughed as well. But inwardly, he felt a little unsettled.


    He forgot he had a Trantion Marble? Judging by his expression and attitude, that seemed to be true. But a Trantion Marbles an extremely precious artifact.


    This item could only be used by the ultra-rich or yers who were getting a lot of sponsorships from Guardians. There werent many of them in the world, so they were either used for important national business or formunication between major corporations. Hyukjin was desensitized to its value because he saw it so often in his vicinity, but in actuality, Trantion Marbles were rarely used.


    For him to forget he had one must mean an item of that level is nothing to him.


    A VIP of Michelle. There was no doubtthis person possessed an unimaginable ability of some kind.


    A knock sounded at the door. The appetizers arrived and were ced on the table.


    Today, we have prepared seasonal greens and jelly made from crystallized apples for you. In addition, we have whole fried seaweed crisps.


    The meal began. After some time, Hyukjin asked, Since when did you decide to open a restaurant in Korea?


    About that


    Hyukjin could instantly tell.


    Hes not ustomed to lying.


    It showed. Michael had never intended on opening a restaurant here. He was doing so because he liked Ahyoung. Even his summary was an eyesore.<blockquote>


    Summary: Chef who Fell in Love at First Sight</blockquote>


    In his previous life, Michael said he fell in love with his wife at first sight. But now, the target of his affections was Hyukjins older sister.


    The problem is that Noona let it slide even though its so obvious hes a terrible liar.


    Ahyoung wasnt blind. So if she let his tant lies slide without objection that meant she liked him, too. Hyukjin just wasnt sure yet whether she liked him as a chef or as a man.<blockquote>


    Summary: Aspiring Chef Feeling Awkward</blockquote>


    After checking Ahyoungs summary, Hyukjin threw a fast ball.


    Let me be frank. I dont believe youve always wanted to set up a restaurant here, Michael.


    ...


    As you may have expected, Im establishing an informationwork of my own. I was unable to find any indication of you debuting a restaurant anywhere overseas, and certainly not in Korea.


    Surprisingly, Michael admitted his lie.


    I wasnt trying to deceive you.


    Whoever you date or fall in love with, I have no intention of getting involved.


    Sitting next to him, Kim Ahyoung pinched Hyukjin hard in the side and kicked him under the table. Of course, it was merely a tickle for the level 44 Kim Hyukjin.


    What nonsense are you saying?


    Noona. Im talking to Michael right now as a VIP. This is business.


    If Senia had been listening, she might have eximed aloud and possibly even retorted, This is a business talk? Are you sure? What kind of business talk is this chock full of personal feelings? Thankfully, Senia wasnt here.


    Hyukjin continued. But if you are unable to separate private matters from business and hurt my sister, you can expect something outside of your ability to deal with to ur.


    Cut the nonsense, Ahyoung hissed.


    Hyukjin relented, knowing she would truly get mad if he went any further. He defused the tension with augh.


    Im joking. In any case, Ill help you get established in Korea. If theres anything you need, please, just ask.


    Michael was sure of it. That threat was no joke. It was 100% sincere. He gulped nervously. But he also knew that Kim Hyukjins offer to help was sincere.


    Michaelughed as well. I will contact you if theres anything I need.


    He meant it. He had a dim idea of Kim Hyukjins capabilities, but no more than that.


    Do your best to find a good opportunity.


    Hyukjin ate a piece of the main dish, beef short ribs. It was tender and sweet.


    He seems more decent than I thought.


    His first impression of the guy wasnt all too shabby.


    * * *


    * * *


    A dayter, Hyukjin met Michael again, this time without Ahyoung. He then asked about Mrchens Breastte.


    You really are establishing an independent infowork, Michael said admiringly. When I made my first advancement into the cooking ss, the NPC who bestowed the ss on me gave me this ring. He told me that if you go to the [Mandarin Oriental Hotel] in Singapore with this ring, a gate will open.


    He gave you that many specifics? The NPC?


    Yes, he did. Its just that Im a cooking ss yer and dont have much need for a breastte, so Ive been putting it off.


    He would keep putting it off, then eventually give the Mrchens Breastte to his older sister Michelle.


    Would you be willing to sell that ring?


    Hm. Michael thought for a moment. I was originally going to give it to my sister Michelle, but


    That was what would have normally happened.


    Ill just give it to you.


    What?


    Its not something I need anyway, and I have the feeling that youre a much bigger giant than I expected.


    Is this like a bribe youre giving because you think Im a giant?


    Well, I cant deny thats part of it. Michael shrugged. But to be honest, you being Ahyoungs younger brother is a bigger part. As you have noticed, I fell in love with Ahyoung at first sight.


    ...Ah.


    They werent very pleasant words to hear, but he wasnt going to interfere with his sisters dating life, so he just decided to ept it.


    So please take this bribe with sincere feelings from me.


    And so, a ring found its way into Hyukjins hands by a truly baffling means. The rings name was Mandarin Oriental Ring.<blockquote>


    [Mandarin Oriental Ring]


    Rubbing this ring three times in the lobby of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Singapore will activate the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Gate. The right to enter the gate can be granted at will by the owner of the Mandarin Oriental Ring. By clearing the gate, one can obtain Mrchens Breastte.</blockquote>


    It was an overly specific and helpful exnation.


    An NPC gave him something like this?


    It wasntpletely out of the question.


    Like how Noah in the U-Plex Dungeon had a transcendent item.


    And that transcendent item was an incredibly powerful artifact named Isabel. So it wasnt strange that Michael had gotten this ring from an NPC.


    Hyukjins second meeting with Michael ended on a good note once more. They shared a casual cup of coffee before parting ways.


    He does seem to be a good guy, mused Hyukjin, feeling a bit happier.


    He immediately convened the members of Giantgod, who promptly gathered in their office in the DMC.


    Yeonseo was already amped up.


    Oh man, Im so excited. We get to clear an unknown gate with Boss again?


    The way she gently stroked her Demonde Asura while speaking made her seem like a sword fanatic, but she was hardly alone in her excitement. Everyone here enjoyed the act of ying itself. Not only did they all have a truly remarkable gift for it, but they were also well-versed in the process. To add onto that, ying with Kim Hyukjin, an outstanding leader, was an enjoyable experience in itself.


    Even Choi Sung-gu looked enthusiastic, for once. No matter how dangerous it is, its still a hundred times better to go in with Boss Hyukjin than to go in with morons.


    Its likely Ill end up monopolizing the reward, warned Hyukjin. Like I said before, the reward Im trying to get is called Mrchens Breastte.


    Hyungnim. That kind of thing isnt important, not one iota. Im more than happy to be your doormat and support you!


    All of Giantgod felt the same.


    Just getting to y with Oppa is fun and enjoyable for me, too! chirped Sunhwa, beaming from ear to ear.


    Jo Sunghyun voiced his agreement, and Giantgods business trip to Singapore was decided unanimously. The full roster of Koreas unofficial #1 guild, Giantgod, headed to Singapore.


    When they got there, Hyukjin was greeted by an unexpected person waiting at the Warp Gate in the Singapore servers Tutorial Building.


    Ive been waiting for you.


    It was the Korean explorer, Kang Somyi.

 Chapter 280

    Chapter 280


    Ive been waiting for you.


    This was no coincidence. Kang Somyi seemed to have been waiting here, knowing that Giantgod woulde.


    Youve been waiting for us?


    Yes. It seemed like you were going toe here.


    How did you know?


    Had she tailed him? He didnt think so. If she had, there was no way Hyukjin wouldnt have known. Kang Somyi might be an excellent explorer, but the level 44 Hyukjins Eye of Perception would have never failed to detect her.


    Either here, or Japan. I thought you would go to one or the other.


    Were you really the one who thought that?


    Of course she wasnt. Kang Somyi wasnt that well-informed.


    I heard it from Teacher.


    I see.


    Jackson was behind this. He wouldnt have known whether Hyukjin would go to the Nanba Terminal Dungeon in Japan or somewhere else, but he <em>would </em>have known that Hyukjin met Michael. There was a high chance Jackson approached Michael to glean informationinformation about Giantgod Guild going to Singaporefrom the chef. There was nothing hard about it. It wasnt like Hyukjin had asked Michael to keep it a secret.


    But what do you mean by Nanba Terminal?


    Mm. You dont know? Somyi grinned. Just as we thought. Heheh.


    Thought what?


    Teacher said that if you had a spy nted in Blood and Iron Lion, you would have gone to Nanba Terminal.


    A spy? Hyukjin echoed, as if hed never considered the possibility.


    I know, right? As if thered be a spy in Blood and Iron Lion.


    You seem to be on very good terms with Blood and Iron Lion.


    Ah. Ive recently joined the guild. I, too, am an explorer who belongs to a major guild.


    She giggled with an unaffected smile, looking not at all unlikable. In fact, she gave off the impression of being somewhat dopey, a sharp contrast from what he had seen of her through the media in the past.


    I think I heard her personality changed a lot after she lost her face from severe burns.


    He guessed this was Kang Somyis original personality.


    The Kang Somyi I know acted alone.


    Without a guild behind her.


    Trying to probe me using her, huh?


    It seemed he would have to be more careful when meeting Jung Sangchul or receiving information. After all, he hadnt yet decided whether Jackson was an ally or a foe.


    Anywho, Ive decided to help you in Singapore.


    Why?


    Because I still owe you a bit forst time, of course.


    She was referring to what happened on the second floor of the D-Tower.


    Id say youve repaid that debt.


    And well, youre also handsome. I like handsome men.


    She broke out in another unostentatious giggle, so naive he couldnt detect any ulterior motive from her. Sunhwa and Yeonseo, who had been listening quietly up until now, stepped forward in unison.


    Boss. This explorer. Shes suspicious.


    Oppa. I think this unnie is sus.


    If they really thought that, wouldnt they have said something sooner? Why were they making a fuss now? Hyukjin ignored them with a wave of his hand.


    So in any case, that means Blood and Iron Lion has gone to Nanba Terminal Dungeon, yes?


    Yes. They should have left today.


    Got it.


    Since Jackson had shown him some consideration, Hyukjin would act in kind. He was someone who locked antlers with the Demon King and the Guardians. Of course he wouldnt shy away from confronting Blood and Iron Lion.


    Kang Somyis teeth sparkled in another brightugh. Ill do my darndest to help. Im a pretty skilled explorer, you know. Giantgod doesnt have an explorer, right?


    Alright.


    This might be some sort of trap set up by Jackson, but Hyukjin decided to undertake that risk.


    No. This probably isnt a trap.


    Jackson couldnt easily be categorized as an ally or a foe. If both Song Junghye and he were king candidates, Hyukjin figured Jackson would assist them both.


    Shell help me get [Mrchens Breastte] in Singapore for sure, but Hyukjin smiled. Shell make the process take as long as possible.


    He was certain she would guide them to the safe but slow path.


    That way, Blood and Iron Lion will be able to snag Nanba Terminals hidden piece.


    He saw exactly what Jackson was going for.


    Unfortunately for Jackson, Hyukjin had zero intention of letting everything go as Jackson nned. He permitted Kang Somyi to join them in clearing this gate.


    Oh, right. Ham Sohyun asked me to ry this to you.


    She even came bearing a precognitive note from Ham Sohyun. Apparently, the seer had seen a concrete future and had called for Kang Somyi by name, asking the explorer to deliver this.


    <em>ywright and robber meet, a starry world unfolds.</em>


    <em>She who escaped the fate of scorching heat shall kneel.</em>


    <em>At the end of a one-sided exchange, the singr sun shall rise.</em>


    It was then that Hyukjin happened to meet eyes with a certain Singaporean yer. He looked away naturally, pretending not to know them.


    Well then, lets proceed to the Mandarin Oriental Hotel. Well explore the ce for about a day.


    * * *


    * * *


    Six hours ago, Kim Hyukjin called Michelle. She picked up before the phone could ring three times.


    Ive actually been waiting to hear from you.


    From me?


    Did things go well with my little brother?


    Yes. He seems like a good person.


    The guy having eyes for his sister Ahyoung was an issue, but if Michael was really a good person, Hyukjin wasnt opposed to treating him well. The American chef might be a part of his family, after all.


    Im relieved to hear that. Michaels never done anything like this before


    Michelle let out a big sigh.


    He suddenly told me he fell in love with Ahyoung and dered hed be settling down in Korea. It gave me such a headache.


    Michael said that much?


    He was trying to see Michael in a good light, but the man had a knack for rubbing Hyukjin the wrong way.


    Yes. I thought he was gay. He didnt seem to have any interest whatsoever in women.


    Before Hyukjin regressed, Michael fell in love at first sight with some random woman, sessfully married her, and loved her with all his heart or so people said.


    Hyukjin gave a shortugh.


    You may already know, but I ce a great deal of value on family.


    Well, shes your sister after all.


    Familys especially important to me.


    He had lost them once, and he didnt want to lose them again. Neither his mom, nor his older sister, nor the new sister he had gained.


    I understand.


    Cold sweat ran down Michelles back. The person named Kim Ahyoung catapulted to wild card status in Michelles mind. She could very well be a major variable in Michelles rtionship with Kim Hyukjin.


    I need to pray that Michael doesnt mess up.


    Thomas, Michelles deputy and her close friend, watched with amusement as Michelle talked on the phone.


    Never thought Id see Michelles expression change so frequently like this.


    They had known each other as kids, but this side of her was a first for him.


    She only gets this flustered around Kim Hyukjin.


    Thomas had never in his life imagined that the great and mighty Michelle would ever look so frazzled. He was both impressed and amazed by this guy named Kim Hyukjin.


    When Michelle lowered her phone, Thomas piped up as if hed been waiting for her to finish.


    Michelle. What did he say?


    He said hell hire the ck Crow.


    The ck Crow? He already knows about that?


    Not only does he know, but he was listing off the names of the yers who will be a part of it. Michelle shook her head in consternation. Its almost like he knows everything about us.


    But thats Level 1 confidential information! Howd he know?


    Even within the mercenarypany Michelle had created, Crow, the constituents of the ck Crow were the elites, mercenaries of the highest grade. Most of them were part of the Michelle Division and were the top Rankers of the country. Naturally, they were currently growing with Michelles full support.


    Do we have a rat?


    Theres no way it was leaked from the inside.


    Right.


    Neither Michelle nor Thomas entertained the possibility of a spy. That was just how much they trusted the ck Crow.


    But whats he hiring them for?


    He wants them to go to Japan. Have you heard of Nanba Terminal?


    Nope. Its probably a terminal of some sort.


    Apparently, Blood and Iron Lion has been dispatched there.


    Will a dungeon appear?


    A gate is going to open.


    Hm. And?


    It seems Song Junghye is nning on getting something there.


    Thomas shook his head, blurting out the first thought that urred to him. Korean Style. How terrifying.


    Yes, really. I think its the Precognitive Dreamer Ham Sohyun. Guildmaster Song Kiyeol seems to cherish Guildmaster Song Junghye a great deal. He may very well have given her a little hint.


    Michelle was aware of the fact that recently, the Japanese astrologist Itachi had traveled to Korea to meet Ham Sohyun.


    Or Itachi might have told them. In any case, theyve apparently deduced the location of the gate before it opened and are preparing, in true Korean fashion. And I think they already know what reward theyll get.


    Their ystyle is so creepy its scary.


    And even scarier yet was Kim Hyukjin, who knew all that in advance and was preparing to intercept.


    So wait, what ck Crow needs to do cant be


    Its as you think.


    Hyukjin hired Michelles mercenarypany, Crow. More specifically, the <em>ck </em>Crow, yers who could really be called a part of the Michelle Division.


    We need to make it so Song Junghye cant get a thing. Especially not a fleet. We have to make absolutely sure she doesnt get that. Thats our job.


    But thatll put us at odds with Blood and Iron Lion, wont it?


    Michelle knew that. She breathed a long sigh, then shrugged like there was nothing she could do.


    Its what the VIP wants.


    But you can refuse.


    I dont know. I somehow dont want to.


    Thomas saw straight through Michelles heart.


    Discarding the card called Song Junghye and inching a bit closer to the Kim Hyukjin side, are you?


    Im d my friend is so perceptive.


    Isnt the Song Junghye card kind of a waste to discard?


    The other card is just so overwhelmingly good. Itd be great if I could take both, but life is always a series of choices.


    And you have a track record of making pretty good choices.


    Thomas, do you respect my choice?


    Thomas nodded. Kim Hyukjinno, Giantgod Guild, is way too special even among other Koreans. Ill back your decisionpletely. As your deputy.


    Only then did Michelle break into a grin. Feeling a little better, Michelle said, This is just a maybe, like really a maybe, but I might be rted to Kim Hyukjin.


    In Thomas eyes, Michelle looked really happy.


    * * *


    The Mandarin Oriental Hotel was a 5-star hotel on the Singapore Marina Bay. As a hotel located at a famous tourist destination, there was a constant stream of taxis going in and out, dropping off and picking up travelers.


    Kim Hyukjin was one such traveler. After descending from his taxi, he entered the building.


    Nothing special about the entrance.


    Next to the revolving door was a regr door as well. The members of Giantgod entered the hotel after him. People snuck nces at the massive So Yoohyun, as well as at Shin Yeonseo.


    Looks like my beauty shines in Singapore too, Boss.


    Ah. Yeah.


    Cmon, Boss. Am I not pretty?


    You are.


    So frustrating. You dont mean it a single bit.


    Despite saying that, Yeonseo giggled giddily. She seemed to be in a very good mood, perhaps because the gate hadnt been activated yet and they hade to a hotel at a famous tourist destination.


    Yeonseo pulled Sunhwa into a hug, almost like she was protecting a treasure.


    But hey, isnt it a bit much to sneak nces at Sunhwa? I know shes super cute and all, but still.


    Unnie! I cant breathe!


    Hush. Heavens above, please make the eyes of all the people looking at our Sunhwa fall out.


    Meanwhile, Kang Somyi walked briskly ahead, waving. Ill be doing some exploring of my own, she called out. Ill also check us in!


    Hyukjin watched as she walked away.


    If I can use her well


    They would be able to find a safe, but fast path and clear the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Gate. It all came down to how well he was able to manipte her.


    They had a premium ocean view room on the top floor. Hyukjin and his guild streamed into the elevator to go up to the 21st floor.


    Ooh, Im so excited, Yeonseo chirped. I hear the night view here is super pretty.


    1F. 2F. 3F. 4F.


    The elevator began to quickly ascend.


    5F. 6F. 7F. 8F.


    But then, the elevator came to a halt with a thud.


    Yeonseo tilted her head.


    Huh? Whats going on? Is it broken?


    <em>Bzzt! Bzzzzt!</em>


    The lights in the elevator went off with the sound of sparks.


    Ehh?


    And then, the elevator began to plummet.

 Chapter 281

    Chapter 281


    Shin Yeonseo panicked. As the elevator suddenly plunged, everyone inside hit the ceiling.


    We-Were falling!


    Fear engulfed her, shock taking over in the face of something she had never experienced.


    Huh?


    But then, she met eyes with Kim Hyukjin, and in that moment, she felt a sense of reassurance.


    Hyukjin was smiling, almost like he had already predicted this.


    Heheh.


    Even as they fell, Yeonseo recovered her calm.


    This is why youve gotta y with Hyukjin.


    A person she could trust. A person who would fulfill their role as a leader without fail. ying with such a person was when she had the most fun and felt the most at ease.


    Hyukjin said, Sunghyun.


    The next moment, Sunghyun used a spell.


    <em>Lift.</em>


    A gust of wind formed in the elevator, cushioning their bodies. It felt like Sunghyuns mana and artificially-produced wind were enveloping Yeonseo in afortable embrace.


    <em>Thud!</em>


    The elevator crashed into the ground, the impact transferring to them as well. They had definitelynded.


    Were okay?


    It was hard to describe this feeling.


    Kinda like Ive been cushioned in bubble wrap.


    She wasnt all that wrong. Sunghyun had used the wind spell Lift on the members of Giantgod. Lift was a support spell that normally cast the power of wind to a targets body and made them levitate in the air or lose their bnce. In this case, wind was used to neutralize the impact from the crash. They were still jostled a little, but no one was greatly injured.


    Everyone alright? Hyukjin called out.


    Were alright, Hyungnim.


    Hyukjin looked around the elevator.


    Everyones in one piece, looks like.


    Theparatively squishy Choi Sung-gu was moaning, Oww, my head, but he seemed mostly unharmed.


    Elevators have some degree of safety features built in, Hyukjin began.


    This was an exnation for the Guardians, not for his guildmates. As they were falling earlier, he had caught a faint glimpse of Senias wings fluttering. She was only visible for a split second, but he was certain that she was streaming right now.


    Theyre designed to stop before they hit the 1st floor.


    Elevators came with that safety feature to protect the passengers. Normally, that is.


    But for us to have crashed like this


    Meant this was someones doing.


    Yoohyun. Open the door.


    Yessir!


    Yoohyun squeezed his fingers into the crack between the elevator doors and began to flex.


    Uryaaaaaa!


    Blood vessels sprang up on his massive biceps, and his face went taut with exertion. The elevator doors began to part with an unpleasant, grating screech, the metal under Yoohyuns hands caving in.


    Sung-gu shuddered.


    Jesus Christ, youre fucking strong. Yoohyun. Were friends, right?


    The door opened to a murmuring crowd that had gathered because of the elevator ident. Hotel employees were running in, and someone was hastily making a call, presumably calling for emergency services.


    Very quietly, Hyukjin whispered, Darong. If theres a thief approaching us, give them a taste of their own medicine.


    Three exmation marks appeared above the head of the Phantom Thief Squirrel. Darongi swiftly became invisible to Hyukjins eyes as well, indicating that the squirrel was going into serious stealth mode.


    Even after reaching level 44, I still cant see him.


    Despite having breached the intermediate period, he couldnt see a single trace of Kim Darong. Hyukjin grinned, recalling the yer he had met eyes with earlier in the Tutorial Building.


    Lasbon. Are you a better thief than Kim Darong?


    * * *


    * * *


    Lasbon.


    He was a 26-year-old Singaporean yer. His ss: thief. Lasbon was a prideful man who thought of himself as the best thief in Singapore. And in truth, he would one day earn the moniker of Starlight Thief and be one of the most famous thieves in the world.


    Lasbon headed to the Tutorial Building, Sunset City Building B. While he was trading with the shop NPCs, he witnessed the Warp Gate being activated.


    Are those guys Korean yers?


    An entire group of Korean yers came over via the Warp Gate. Most yers who used that facility were rich.


    Koreans, huh.


    Lasbons heart began to thump. He had heard a lot of rumors about these Korean yers.


    A server specialized in 1v1 PVP and dungeon raiding.


    Singapore was a server with an emphasis on trade and thief ss yers. They were generally outstanding in those fields. It was very different from the Korean server.


    Even if they have amazingbat skills


    These yers might have that famous Korean Style, but they likelycked defenses against thievery.


    From what Lasbon knew, Korea was a somewhat unique country. If you left your wallet or phone in a coffee shop, or even something more valuable like aptop, no one would steal it. A strange ce, indeed. Perhaps of those norms, Korea was known to have an extremely small number of thief ss yers.


    When ites to theft, Ive got the advantage.


    Lasbon called up a few of his buddies. They called themselves the Travelers of the Night. Although they werent an official guild, they operated like one.


    A bunch of Koreans have shown up. They all came via the Warp Gate, and I know the name of one of them.


    You do? Who is it? No shot its Song Kiyeol, right?


    Hes not that big of a giant.


    If it was Song Kiyeol, Lasbon would never have coordinated a theft. Song Kiyeol was too big a namehe was one of the hero-ss yers famous even around the world.


    Theres a guy who became famous as the Tutorial Ender.


    If hes that well-known in Korea, hes pretty amazing, isnt he?


    I dont think he had any big achievements after that, though I think hes still a Ranker.


    But he wasnt on Song Kiyeols level. It was worth provoking him.


    Their destination was the Mandarin Oriental Hotelthat was where they would carry out their n.


    And so, they got to work. Using Lasbons innate ability, Invoke ident, they crashed the elevator.


    Theyre definitely shocked.


    While the Koreans were in a daze, the Travelers of the Night would go in and clean out their Inventories. That was their goal. If there was one issue, it was that Kim Hyukjin had already seen through their n.


    Hyukjins Eye of Perception scanned the surroundings.


    Theres four of them.


    They were probably Travelers of the Night. And leading them was the famous big-time thief, Lasbon. Hyukjin was sure about that. How? Because he had already met eyes with Lasbon in the Tutorial Building. Not only did Hyukjin know what Lasbon looked like, he saw the thiefs summary.<blockquote>


    Summary: Budding Big-Time Thief Wanting to Pilfer Koreans</blockquote>


    Hyukjin knew a few of Lasbons methods, and he also knew about the thiefs innate ability, Invoke ident. Since he already knew what the opponent had in store, there was nothing to be afraid of.


    Theyll think well be all panicked. Do a little acting, Hyukjin said under his breath.


    Sung-gu took the order a step further and flopped onto the ground.


    Oh gawd. How can this happen?! So this is how the Jayangdong Fire Master meets his end.


    Time passed.


    In the end, the Travelers of the Night didnt show themselves. They prowled the area before ultimately leaving, but not before Kim Darong unburdened them of the items in their Inventories. The uproar settled down, and after an endless stream of apologies from the hotel team, Giantgod Guild headed up to the 21st floor again. Despite the massive ident that had just urred, they were able to check in fairly painlessly.


    Hyukjins room, Room #2111, became a gathering ce for all of Giantgod.


    Yeonseo was the first to ask.


    Boss Hyukjin. Did you know?


    I did.


    Sunghyun. You?


    I didnt know.


    Then howd you think to use Lift there?


    I just figured Hyukjin would have used it if it were him.


    Sunghyun was being sincere. The moment the elevator fell, one thought blitzed through his mind: What would Hyukjin do? What would the hyung he liked and respected do?


    The answer came to him quickly. And to Sunghyuns joy, Hyukjin called out his name. Sensing a great deal of trust in that call, Sunghyun used Lift after making an instantaneous judgment.


    Yeonseo nodded in understanding.


    I sometimes ask what Boss Hyukjin would do and act ordingly, too.


    ...


    If it was rigged, who the hell was it? Yeonseo whipped out her sword. If I catch them, you bet Ill cut em up.


    Yeonseos Asura hovered at Sung-gus throat.


    O-O-Ohe on now, for fucks sake. W-Why me? Im your friendly neighborhood Bum-gu.


    Yoohyun is too strong, Sunghyuns a saint, and Sunhwas cute. And I cant bare a sword at Boss Hyukjin.


    Th-Then what about me? Sung-gu took out a handkerchief and wiped the sweat off his brow. I-Im cute turk.


    Yeonseos Asura poked ever so slightly into Sung-gus neck.


    FUCK! You really gonna stab me?!


    Sunghyun went to stand in front of Yeonseo, almost as if he were protecting her. You didnt die, so its fine.


    Hyukjin! These two are ganging up on me!


    Hyukjin cracked a grin.


    Doing good, guys.


    Hyukjin was well aware. It wasnt just the Giantgod Guild in this room. One of the Travelers of the Night who had missed their chance on the 1st floor was here, too.


    Are they here in the flesh


    Or


    Are they just scouting?


    He could sense itan outsiders gaze. Someone was watching them. Giantgod Guild was just acting like they had dropped their guard.


    Among Travelers of the Night there was a guy with [Scouting Eye].


    There was a special object called a Ward. Sometimes Wards came in the form of a pebble, or a flower. Or a book, or a cupit didnt matter what form they took. It didnt change the fact that if you ced a Ward somewhere, it would act as a sort of surveince camera.


    Basically, a spy cam.


    One that was produced by a yers ability. Used mainly by thief sses, the secret footage leak scandals this ability resulted in sparked outrage all over the world.


    Hyukjin took out an item from his Inventory.


    This is one of the items I stole from them.


    Their onlookers were probably having a fit about now. They came here wanting to rob Giantgod, but got UNO reversed. Kim Darong didnt show them any mercy. The little squirrel stripped everything from their Inventories, down to thest Coin. Of those items, Hyukjin was focusing on an item that was glowing with yellow light.


    Its called the Daedongyeojido.


    Sunhwas hand shot up.


    Me, me, me! I know! I know the Daedongyeojido!


    You do?


    Yes! Sunhwa nodded vigorously, as if to say she had studied hard at school. I learned about it in History ss!


    The Daedongyeojido, something all Koreans would have heard at least one time in their life, was found in Lasbons Inventory.


    The Daedongyeojido was a set of foldable booklet maps of Korea, produced by the cartographer Kim Jeong-ho in 1861 with a second edition published in 1864. This item shared the same name as the maps created by the Joseon period geologist. Hyukjin nced at a part of the wall.


    Come, Lasbon.


    He had thrown the bait. Now, it was time to wait for the fish to bite.


    Didnt think Id be out fishing here.


    Singapore was a merchant and thief server.


    Its highly likely the Merchant of Venice is watching.


    It might even be that the Milky Way Neutron Star was watching. Hyukjin suddenly recalled Ham Sohyuns prophecy.


    <em>ywright and robber meet, a starry world unfolds.</em>


    This wasnt in his ns, but he decided to grab the situation by the horns.

 Chapter 282

    Chapter 282


    The Milky Way Neutron Star was a major sponsor of Lasbon, the famous thief from Singapore. However, that didnt mean they stayed exclusively in the Singapore server. The thief ss had markedly fewer yers than the other sses, so the thief-focused Milky Way Neutron Star hopped from server to server, bestowing generous sponsorships to yers who showed acts of outstanding theft.


    Of them, Lasbon was a particrly notable recipient of the Milky Way Neutron Stars attention and sponsorship.


    <em>Theft, covertly.</em>


    <em>But deception, thoroughly.</em>


    These two sentences clearly depicted the style favored by the Milky Way Neutron Star. Under the Guardians influence, the worlds most famous thieves ended up having simr dispositions. Whether that was because only people with such a personality could thrive as thieves, or because they were matching the Milky Way Neutron Stars preferences, it was hard to say.


    Thats like asking if the chicken came first or the egg.


    That wasnt the matter at hand. What was important was that it was highly likely the biggest proponent of <em>Theft, covertly; deception, thoroughly, </em>the Milky Way Neutron Star, was watching.


    This Daedongyeojido is an extremely important item to Korean explorers.


    It was a so-called awakening item, or key item. Getting the Daedongyeojido was said to be like winning the lottery for explorers from the Korean server. Hyukjin didnt know how exactly it was used; he only knew it was a very important item for that ss.


    Hold on, what do we have here? Hyukjin pulled out another item. Senvarts Dagger? This thing has pretty good stats. Yeonseo, you take it.


    Really? I can have it?


    She had no idea what it was, but it wasing from Kim Hyukjin. She was sure it wouldnt be as good as Asura, but it had to be good. And it was free.


    All hail free!


    Yeonseo epted without hesitation.


    Its expensive. Use it well, and carefully.


    Roger. Thanks.


    Youre grateful, right?


    Yeah. Super grateful! Jeez, what do I do? My debt to you keeps growing!


    Yeonseo lived up to her Smiling Swordsman moniker and responded with warmth. This wasnt exaggerated acting. She was being sincere. Yeonseo still thought of Hyukjin as her mothers savior.


    Yeonseo being truly grateful will piss them off more, huh?


    Lasbon was spying on them from somewhere, watching as Hyukjin took his items and gave them out like party favors. He was probably losing it.


    A message arrived.<blockquote>


    [The Milky Way Neutron Star has begun to watch you.]</blockquote>


    As expected, the big-time Singaporean thief came bearing the Milky Way Neutron Star, a big fish. Hyukjin would struggle to keep their interest for long since he wasnt a full-on thief, but the Guardian was famous for dropping a generous sponsorship as soon as they took a shine to a yer.


    Because thieves are so rare.


    The scarcity of the ss resulted in the Guardian throwing investment at whatever promising seedlings they found and seeing if it stuck. You could say they were simr but different from the Night of Falling Stars, a 2nd generation Guardian.


    And this Leg Staff is perfect for Sunghyun.


    The Leg Staff, an emerald staff wreathed with the faint glow of mana, was unique grade and came with extremely good effects: +15% to wind affinity and wind magic damage.


    Thank you.


    Youre lucky youve got such a great guildmaster.


    Sunghyun nearly let a smile escape.


    Hyung can say stuff like that too, huh?


    It was all an act. Normally, Hyukjin almost never said things like thathe was the type to give things withoutment. So Sunghyun yed along.


    If not for you, Hyung, how would I get my hands on such a precious item?


    Youre not wrong. Hyukjin guffawed, seemingly in a good mood. This Crow Gauntlet will go to Yoohyun.


    With its attack speed buff, this rare grade gauntlet was a good fit for the future Fist King. Singapore would one day take off as themerce server. As a budding major league thief operating in such a server, excellent items were already spilling from Lasbons Inventory.


    Sunhwa, you take this.


    He gave Sunhwa an item called Scale Armor. It could be worn under ones clothes, and boasted higher defense than the heavy armor from the beginner period.


    What about me? What about Bum-gu?


    Mm. You Hyukjin took out an item from his Inventory. ...get this.


    Th-This is?<blockquote>


    [Duke Lefrys Crossdressing Set]


    The legend of the Western Continent, Duke Lefry, had a covert hobby. In order to prevent his hobby from getting discovered, he had an annex built within his castle and made a secret room for his exclusive use within it. No one other than Duke Lefry could enter his secret room. There, Duke Lefry enjoyed his covert hobby, crossdressing. Covertly. And more beautifully. Duke Lefrys Crossdressing Set will make you dazzling.


    Grade: Legendary</blockquote>


    Yeonseo snickered. Whats this? Sung-gus gonna get prettier? Wow, Im jealous.


    Yoohyun also burst out inughter. Sunhwa let out a quiet, awkwardugh, and even the normally taciturn Sunghyun sniggered.


    Sung-gu asked seriously, Is this thing expensive?


    Probably, yeah? Its legendary.


    Then score! Apparently, he had no qualms as long as it was valuable. Sweet. But man, there are really people out there who use items like this? Since its crossdressing it must be a dude?


    Yeonseo followed up in an exaggerated manner, as if to let someone overhear. So embarrassing, uurk!


    Yeonseo didnt actually think that. Be it crossdressing or something else, as long as it didnt bring harm to others, she didnt care what people did. Whether a guy dressed up as a girl, or a girl dressed up as a guy, it was all the same to her. She believed people were free to do whatever they wanted as long as it didnt harm others, but she was acting to get a rise out of the items original owner.


    Where did you get this?


    There was a guy trying to pilfer my Inventory.


    A guy? So theyre a man? And they had this? Pfft. Yeonseo burst outughing.


    * * *


    * * *


    The next moment, Ward on the wall began to smoke and spark, fizzling out. The smoke was so faint that it could only be detected with a skill on the level of Eye of Perception.


    <em>But deception, thoroughly.</em>


    Hyukjin said, Funny thing is, I know the guys name.


    He felt somethingsomeone close. They were stealthy, but not so stealthy that they could escape Eye of Perceptions radar.


    Hyukjins hand shot out and grabbed the intruders wrist, dispelling their stealth.<blockquote>


    Name: Lasbon


    ss: Neb Robber</blockquote>


    Apparently, this guy crossdresses as his hobby.


    Lasbons face was bright red. The heavily bearded man said something. Hyukjin used a Trantion Marble, through which Lasbon repeated himself.


    How did you see through my stealth?


    It wasnt that hard.


    Are you a thief?


    Isnt it obvious from how I stole all your items? Why did you even show up here after I robbed you blind? If you had acknowledged your defeat and left, you could have avoided this sorry situation.


    It did strike Hyukjin as odd.


    We did provoke and deceive him, but


    Lasbon wasnt so mindless a yer that he would reveal himself like this. If he was going to take revenge, he would have done it like a thief.


    The fact that he showed himself Hyukjin smirked. ...means Lefrys Crossdressing Set is extremely important to him.


    There was no mistaking it. Eye of Perception clearly saw the yellow lights sparkling above the names of the Daedongyeojido and Duke Lefrys Crossdressing Set, telling him these two objects were no ordinary items. There was something more to them, something hidden. With Michael, Hyukjin was able to decipher what the yellow light above the chefs head meant. But not this timehe could only see the yellow lights.


    Which means, theyre hiding something I cant decipher at my current level.


    And that was something Lasbon knew as well. He would try to get it back, no matter what it took.


    What? Did you want to use your innate ability to get this back, at least?


    ...


    Sung-gu looked around in a panic, shouting, Huh? My expensive drag set!


    It was no longer in Sung-gus hands. Just in case Lasbon tried something, Darongi had stowed it away in his Inventory.


    Lasbon bit his lips. He had rushed out in haste, but thinking about it now, this was all a trap. He had a sinking suspicion these people had acted out a y, already knowing he woulde to them.


    Lasbons attitude took an immediate 180.


    I apologize. Please forgive me.


    Everything else was fine, but


    I would like you to return the drag set, at least.


    What kind of shameless request is that,ing from a thief to another thief?


    The deed was dhe item was already stolen. As a thief, he had to ept that. That was what thief ss yers thought.


    Its because that item is more precious than my life. Ill do anything you ask, so please, I beg youplease give it back.


    ...


    Was this item <em>that </em>precious?


    You saying that is actually making me want it more.


    Its only valuable to me. It wont be of any use to others.


    It doesnt look like that to me. Hyukjin sat down. You tried to rob us first. So I robbed you instead; thats all. If your skills were better than mine, we would have had to scurry back to Korea with only the clothes on our backs.


    Thats true. I picked the wrong targets.


    And yet, you want me to give back this item? Rather shameless, dont you think?


    I know its shameless.


    You even intentionally caused the elevator ident.


    And now he was here asking for forgiveness? If this item was truly important to him and he wanted it back by all means, he would havee begging right away. He wouldnt have spied on them using Ward, but lowered himself as a junior thief approaching a senior thief, saying <em>I was careless, please forgive me. </em>If he had done that, Hyukjin might have given him some consideration.


    Considering that you spied on us with Ward just before this, this isnt terribly convincing.


    Hyukjin didnt think Lasbon was being sincere, either.<blockquote>


    Summary: Robber with a Secret Card up his Sleeve</blockquote>


    Hyukjin smirked.


    What? Gonna open the Hall?


    Lasbon flinched, and the next moment, the side of Yoohyuns hand came down on his neck. The thief fainted with a cry.


    Hyungnim, this items pretty good, Yoohyun said, very pleased with the Crow Gauntlet they had stolen from Lasbon.


    But Boss, whats the Hall? asked Yeonseo.


    Theres something like that.


    In any case, round one of thief vs. thief ended in Hyukjins total victory.


    Its about time for the Milky Way Neutron Star to react.


    Sure enough, Hyukjin heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [The Milky Way Neutron Star is very focused on your ying.]


    [The Milky Way Neutron Star gives you Stardust.]</blockquote>


    The gift arrived in Hyukjins Inventory. In the end, the Guardian who was known to only sponsor potential thieves sent him a sponsorship. Hyukjin hadnt actually liedhe never said he had a thief ss.


    Thieves really want this stuff, right?


    But they didnt put out any detailed information about it. In other words, Stardust was a trade secret.<blockquote>


    [Stardust]


    A Guardian exclusive given by the Milky Way Neutron Star to those they have expectations for. Stardust can be used on robbed or stolen items, enabling one to see all hidden attributes of the item.


    Remaining uses: 3</blockquote>


    As soon as Hyukjin read the item description, he knew exactly where to use it.


    Ill use it right away.


    Just in case the Milky Way Neutron Star canceled their sponsorship, he used it immediately on two items: the Daedongyeojido and Duke Lefrys Crossdressing Set.

 Chapter 283

    Chapter 283<blockquote>


    [Using Stardust on Daedongyeojido.]</blockquote>


    Golden dust fell on the map item, the Daedongyeojido.<blockquote>


    [Stardust has sessfully taken effect.]


    [The authority imbued in Stardust unlocks the Daedongyeojidos hidden piece.]</blockquote><blockquote>


    [Daedongyeojido]


    A map bearing general dungeon and monster information within certain time slots and certain fields in the Korean server. Only an explorer ss yer can read this map and use it to discover hidden pieces of dungeons and gates.<ul><li>


    A hidden piece has been unlocked by Stardust.</li><li>


    When the power within this map is used, the hidden ss Explorer of Service can be acquired.</li></ul></blockquote>


    Explorer of Service?


    He had never heard of the ss before.


    For now, lets keep it.


    He used Stardust again on Duke Lefrys Crossdressing Set.<blockquote>


    [Duke Lefrys Crossdressing Set]


    The legend of the Western Continent, Duke Lefry, had a covert hobby. In order to prevent his hobby from getting discovered, he had an annex built within his castle and made a secret room for his exclusive use within it. No one other than Duke Lefry could enter his secret room. There, Duke Lefry enjoyed his covert hobby, crossdressing. Covertly. And more beautifully. Duke Lefrys Crossdressing Set will make you dazzling.


    Grade: Legendary<ul><li>


    A hidden piece has been unlocked by Stardust.</li><li>


    When a male yer wearing Duke Lefrys Crossdressing Set uses the power within, the field Annex of Lefry Castle will be opened.</li></ul></blockquote>


    Two hidden pieces were unlocked: one called Explorer of Service, and another called Annex of Lefry Castle. Not long afterwards, Kang Somyi rushed into the room.


    So this is where everyone was.


    What happened?


    Im really, really sorry, but its really an emergency.


    Kang Somyi had agreed to aid Giantgod and help them clear the Oriental Mandarin Hotel Gate. But while she was investigating, something happened.


    Hyukjin could tell.


    Shes in Blood and Iron Lion and is working for Jackson, yes but seeing as she freely dropped everything toe here, shes not being forced or subjected to any absolute settings.


    In some respects, it was a good thing. That meant there was more opportunity to exploit her.


    An emergency? What kind of emergency?


    Ive lost a ss item thats extremely important to me.


    Oh no. Hyukjin shook his head. Singapore is the server ofmerce, as well as a hub for thieves.


    I know. But I didnt think Id get screwed over so badly! Its really super important to me, but now its gone.


    Even before Somyis haphazard entrance, Hyukjin had already figured out how Lasbon managed to get his hands on an item named after a historic Korean relic, the Daedongyeojido. Lasbon had been watching Giantgod ever since the Tutorial Building, and it was there that he swiped the Daedongyeojido from Somyi. He was more skilled than expected.


    If I help you find it, will you help us wholeheartedly?


    Of course.


    Very well.


    Hyukjin took out an item. It was the Stardusted Daedongyeojido. Kang Somyis eyes widened.


    H-H-How do you have that?!


    I ended up getting it somehow.


    Do you expect me to believe that? Kang Somyi chewed her lip. Why did Kim Hyukjin have that item? Did you steal it?


    Me?


    That seems to be the only way to interpret this situation.


    If that was the case, I wouldnt have brought it out right now.


    Im sorry, but I need to hear an exnation for why you have it.


    Hyukjin shrugged and turned his gaze to Sunghyun, who took out his phone.


    I recorded it.


    The ever-prepared Jo Sunghyun had everything on camera. Somyi watched the video.


    What in the world She was stunned to her core. Kim Hyukjin anticipated everything and put up an act?


    He had yed the situationpletely to his advantage, taking everything there was to get. Almost like he was watching from up high, like a ywright controlling the stage. He achieved everything he wanted.


    My god.


    She had already thought he was amazing, but she didnt know he was this next level. Even in a ce he had never been in his life, even in Singapore, he could be this overwhelming. Just how nuts was he in Korea, his home base?


    No wonder hes caught Teachers attention.


    Somyi immediately apologized.


    Im sorry. It was just so important to me that I was blinded and misunderstood.


    I understand that feeling.


    R-Right?


    I understand, but I fail to understand your response.


    Th-Thats fair.


    If it were me, I would have said thanks first and moved on from there. Not jump straight to being suspicious.


    I was wrong.


    Or I would have asked to hear the whole story.


    * * *


    * * *


    Somyis face went as red as a beet. Now that she thought about it, she was indeed in the wrong. If there hadnt been video evidence, she might have still thought to herself that Kim Hyukjin had stolen her item.


    Ill apologize for real. Im really sorry. What can I do to make you less mad?


    Im not really mad.


    Then could you give that back?


    Give it back? This is a trophy I won fair and square in a fight with Lasbon.


    Somyi rushed to say, I know you didnt show me that you had it just to mess with me.


    He wasnt trying to tease her. There was something Kim Hyukjin wanted right now. She racked her brain, thinking hard.


    What do you want?


    Hyukjin nodded. In my opinion, when you want something, negotiation and trade is the answer, not begging.


    Youre right.


    Somyi was embarrassed. She thought herself a fairly aplished explorer, so why did she feel like a newborn babenot even a rookie!in front of Kim Hyukjin?


    Hyukjin heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [The Merchant of Venice nods.]


    [The Merchant of Venice sends a written proposal regarding the 2nd advancement.]</blockquote>


    Even the person directing this situation, Hyukjin, was shocked by the notice that had juste in.


    A written proposal regarding the 2nd advancement?


    He wasnt giving a 2nd advancement quest, but a <em>written</em><em>proposal.</em> Almost like he was seeking a superiors approval on a business proposal.


    And thats still 6 levels away.


    Hyukjin might have broken through the Hell Phase, but he had only just entered the intermediate period. The 2nd advancement came at level 50.


    He probably sent a written proposal instead of stating it directly because of the other Guardians, right?


    It was possible this proposal was sent in secret.


    It probably is.


    Hyukjins level was still too low to start discussing his 2nd advancement. If Hyukjin was right, the Merchant of Venice was sneakily trying to get his foot in the back door without the other Guardians knowing. If he handled this wrong, Hyukjin might find himself dancing to the Guardians tune.


    Even the great Guardian of merchants has deeply acknowledged my opinion.


    Being careful to not step on the Guardians toes, Hyukjin lowered himself as much as possible while rying information to the other Guardians.


    I have no intention of taking pity on you. What I want is a fair trade.


    Thats fine with me; Id feel better about that. Please tell me what you want.


    This trade with you involves a proposal regarding my 2nd advancement.


    Y-Your 2nd advancement? Somyis eyes grew wide. But I thought that happens when you reach level 50.


    Hyukjins eyes narrowed.


    She knows that?


    He was a regressor, so he knew when the 2nd advancement urred. Level 50 wasnt a fixed point, but most yers did their 2nd advancement then. That was also when they made a contract with another Guardian.


    Like I thought, theres definitely something I dont know about explorers.


    It was fun. The more he learned, the more fun it became.


    On the other hand, Senias wings fluttered as she looked at Hyukjin''s smile. Right now, there was a bit of a quarrel going on between the Guardians.


    yer Kim Hyukjin predicted this and mentioned the 2nd advancement proposal on purpose.


    He presented it as rationale to Kang Somyi while simultaneously leaking information to the Guardians, since he had no intention of advancing into a merchant ss anyway.


    This will kick off a scramble for Hyukjins 2nd advancement.


    Senia nearly let an unconscious smile escape.


    Get ahold of yourself, Senia.


    She was horrified that she nearly smiled during a streamhow very shameful of her. Senia managed to catch her smile at thest moment, schooling her features into expressionlessness.


    Countless Guardians are watching yer Kim Hyukjin.


    So many, in fact, that she could almost hear his value going up by the second.


    In any case, Ive even used a mighty power on this thing.


    A mighty power?


    Yes. One that only has three uses.


    Somyis face hardened like a rock. A power with three uses? Just what was Kim Hyukjin about to demand from her?


    What kind of power?


    Ive unlocked the items hidden piece.


    Wh-What did you say?! Kang Somyis mouth dropped open as wide as her eyes, shock written clearly all over her face. Did you just say you unlocked the hidden piece?


    Yes. Using this power.


    No way


    Surely not. There was no way. He hadnt unlocked the Explorer of Service condition, had he? Controlling her trembling heart, Somyi calmly asked, Would it be possible for me to check that hidden piece?


    Go ahead.


    Hyukjin pulled up a trade window and showed her the item.


    How in the world? Somyi didnt bother to hide her shock. She was even shaking from head to toe. Do you know how hard Ive been trying to activate this?


    It was out of her hands for just a moment, and now the hidden piece was activated.


    Looks like you knew it had a hidden piece.


    Yes. I also knew it was Explorer of Service. But I didnt know how to activate it. To think that you activated it, just like that Just how in the world?!


    Do you want it?


    Yes, of course.


    What can you give me?


    Anything you want.<blockquote>


    Summary: yer Blinded by Explorer of Service</blockquote>


    Hyukjin grinned. If it were him, he wouldnt have gone into the trade like that, no matter how desperate he was. With this, the Merchant of Venice wouldpletely lose interest in Kang Somyi. On the other hand, the Guardian would view the person behind this trade, Hyukjin, all the more favorably.


    Even though I exposed his 2nd advancement proposal.


    A y like thisthe kind of y the Merchant of Venice lovedwould negate some of the Guardians displeasure.


    Hyukjin asked, What is the Explorer of Service, exactly, to make you so excited about it?


    Its the ss I want, as well as the best ss I can get with my talent tes.


    He could sympathize. She, too, was someone who enjoyed ying. ying was more addictive than drugs. People who experienced addictiveness like this from ying, people who found ying fun, were Ranker material.


    I absolutely want to be an Explorer of Service.


    Hm.


    Kang Somyi quickly added, If I be an Explorer of Service, I can select one person as my liege. Literally a person to serve.


    Whats good about that?


    If that was true, then it was strange that Kang Somyi wanted to be an Explorer of Service. What was good about having someone to serve? You would no longer be your own person.


    In exchange for serving one person, the Explorer of Service bes far more powerful than other explorer sses during exploration that involves that person.


    Hyukjins Eye of Perception read Kang Somyis desperation. Desperation her words could not express was rippling from her in waves.


    She really wants this.


    Hyukjin nodded.


    Fine. Then this is what well do.


    He would create the scenario he wanted, while actively drawing in the Merchant of Venice he had possibly somewhat offended.


    He would deliver a show that would delight the Merchant of Venice.

 Chapter 284

    Chapter 284


    Ill give it to you, Hyukjin said, nonchnt.


    Th-Thank you!


    But on some conditions.


    Ill ept them all, whatever they are.


    Hyukjin nodded. Let me ask a question first. Do you know the fastest and safest route to clearing the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Gate?


    ...


    When Kang Somyi hesitated, Hyukjin immediately followed with, This is all a part of the conditions for this trade.


    ...Okay.


    I want you to answer within one second. Understood?


    Well


    If you dont want to, so be it.


    In the end, Kang Somyi raised the white g of surrender.


    Alright, fine. Youre more devious than you look.


    Id prefer you to say Im determined.


    He imposed a 1-second time limit on Kang Somyi to prevent her froming up with some other excuse or responseshe wouldnt have the time to ponder in leisure.


    This is how a trade should be done.


    Normally, regr deals like this one werent the kind the Merchant of Venice liked to see. He was a fan of mutual exchanges where both parties gave and gained to a degree they could both ept.


    That wasnt what was happening here.


    The moment Kang Somyi said she would give everything I want regardless of conditions or profit, she became an enemy of the Merchant of Venice.


    Enemy might be a bit of an overstatement, but considering the Merchant of Venices disposition, it wasnt far off.


    At least to the Merchant of Venice, Kang Somyis been reduced to an irritating mob character.


    That was the portrayal Hyukjin had intentionally induced. To use movies as an analogy, yers were actors and directors, while Guardians were the audience. The audience put themselves in the shoes of the main characters. If the protagonist killed or harassed innocent side characters, they would draw the audiences ire, but if they harassed viins or bad guys who needed to be defeated, they would be praised for scratching an itch. It was the same here. To the Merchant of Venice, Kang Somyi was a frustrating side character.


    And if I deal with a mob character like that using a method the Merchant of Venice likes


    He would be extremely delighted. Right now, Hyukjin was creating and relieving a frustrating itch tailor-made for the Merchant of Venice. Using a trade to strip the enemy of everything they had, down to their very soul, was what the Merchant of Venice wanted to see. Hyukjin set his sights precisely on that oue.


    Let me ask you again. Do you know how to clear the gate as quickly and safely as possible?


    Yes.


    How do you know?


    Because


    Kang Somyi squeezed her eyes shut. There was nothing more important to her right now than the Daedongyeojido. This wasnt the time to be worrying about this and that. She resolved herself to tell everything to the full extent of her knowledge.


    I cant lie.


    A yer of Kim Hyukjins level might have a special skill to distinguish lies. Kim Hyukjin didnt have such an ability, of course, but Kang Somyi didnt know that. She had no choice but to y it safe. Lying here could result in losing the Daedongyeojido forever, and that was a risk she couldnt afford.


    It was me and Teacher who designed this gate.


    You designed this gate?


    Yeonseo flinched. What? Thats possible?


    How was it possible for a human to design a gate? She had never heard of such a thing.


    Without any indication that he was surprised, Hyukjin rephrased his question. What I mean to ask is, did you two explorers design it without the help of a mapmaker?


    No, we were helped.


    Somyi felt goosebumps rise all over her body. How does he know about the mapmaker?


    Even Somyi had only just recently learned about them.


    Just what <em>is </em>this guy?


    Even among explorers, only a tiny select few knew this. As Jackson had impressed on her,


    <em>Mapmaker is a truly rare ss. And you need to keep it a secret for now. Say absolutely nothing about mapmakers. Understood?</em>


    A truly rare ss, a ss even her Teacher urged her to keep a secret. As far as Kang Somyi knew, there was only one mapmaker in the entire world.


    After seeing Somyis expression, Hyukjin knew that mapmakers had entered the scene. That was at least three years earlier than in the past Hyukjin knew. Originally, the mapmaker ss was revealed to the world in August of 2022.


    The mapmaker Cha Jihae.


    Only when very specific conditions and materials were present could a mapmaker design gates. The only yer known to the public as a mapmaker was Cha Jihae.


    How do you know about the mapmaker?


    I never said you could ask questions.


    Thats true. Somyi pouted her lips a little. Still, I should be allowed to at least ask questions.


    No.


    ...Okay.


    Yeonseo mumbled, So evil. She followed it up with, Evil is sexy, but Hyukjin let those words go through one ear and out the next.


    Hyukjin asked, The mapmaker is Korean, right?


    I dont know.


    You absolutely dont know?


    No, I really dont. As far as I know, only Teacher is in direct contact with the mapmaker.


    Hyukjin thought for a bit, thinking of the best way to direct this situation.


    If the mapmaker happens to be Korean and has ast name of Cha, please tell me.


    Alright. Do we have a deal then?


    No.


    Just stick a straw in me and suck me dry then, why dont you?


    Can I really? Hyukjin raised Isabel.


    Ar-Argh, seriously! It was a joke!


    Kang Somyi waved her hands frantically, backing away. Hyukjin had unintentionally gained information about mapmakers. He didnt think a mapmaker had designed the one and only Mrchens Breastte.


    As I thought, Jackson is deeply involved.


    Mrchens Breastte was a legendary artifact that had saved Michelles life multiple times. There was no way Cha Jihae had designed the gate that yielded such an artifact as a reward all by herself. If that were possible, she would have made a bunch of gates of simr quality and mass-produced countless epic items.


    And he will have dealt with her more effectively than the Demon King.


    When Cha Jihae crashed into the yer scene like aet three years ago, she quickly jumped to fameparable to that of the 8 Heroes of Korea. After her debut, she made significant contributions to the 8 Heroes growth and became the hero who joined forces with barrier magicians to seal the Lotte Signiel Dungeon.


    In any case, he now knew that the mapmaker was already in y, that she had created the gate in Singapore, and that Jackson was once again deeply involved in that process.


    A groan interrupted his thoughtsLasbon had begun regaining consciousness.


    Hyukjin threw a look at Yoohyun, who immediately understood what he wanted.


    Go back to sleep. Hush, little baby, dont say a word!


    Yoohyuns ridiculous luby was apanied by a swift chop to the neck.


    <em>Crack!</em>


    Lasbon went limp again with a crack loud enough to make one fear for the bones of his neck. It looked bad, but Yoohyun had controlled his strength well, so the Singaporean thief was still alive.


    He should be asleep for quite a while this time, Hyungnim! Sorry to worry you.


    Hyukjin nodded, then turned back to Kang Somyi. You need to guide us along the fastest way to clear this gate. You know what Im getting there, correct?


    I dont know what the reward is. I know the way, but not the reward.


    Its called Mrchens Breastte.


    Understood. Ill do my utmost to help.


    One more thing. Select me as your liege.


    What?


    What, you dont want to?


    Well its not that I dont want to She trailed off, hesitating.


    Jackson isnt your liege, but your teacher. Your liege and teacher dont have to be the same person; you can keep them separate.


    Thats true, but


    If you dont want to, Ill just sell this thing. Im sure Michelle will give me a lot for it. Hyukjin grinned, before putting Kang Somyis worries to rest at the appropriate timing. Im just kidding. Each item has an owner that matches it, after all.


    Youre a real pro at ying with someones feelings.


    If I dont give this to you, the Explorer of Service will be forever gone to you anyway.


    Kang Somyi frowned. I need to think about it for a moment. Any other conditions?


    We need to clear this ce before Blood and Iron Lion clears Nanba Terminal.


    What? Whys that?


    I dont like Song Junghye.


    ...But you didnt even know about Nanba Terminal until today.


    But I do now.


    Somyi grimaced at Hyukjins smile. Jacksons test to see if there was a spy in Blood and Iron Lion was now being pointed against her as justification for Kim Hyukjin. It wasnt because Jackson was inept. It was just that the scene Jackson had nned hadnt ounted for Lasbon and the Daedongyeojido.


    I cant just watch and let Song Junghye get good things, you see?


    B-But shes my guildmaster!


    If you dont like it, you can give up on this trade.


    Hic!


    Kang Somyi couldnt help but make a woeful sound. This was just too much.


    Youre really too much.


    Like I said, just give up if you dont like it. Thats how trades normally are. You make the trade if you want, or dont if you dont want. Are you going to give up on the trade?


    You say that knowing very well I cant.


    Somyi pouted her lips. She appeared to be full ofints, but she didnt seem to be considering calling off the deal.


    Yeonseo offered her two cents. This is why youll never have a good nights rest again if you be Boss enemy, she remarked.


    You must be right. Ive never seen someone with such a handsome face be this stubborn and wicked.


    But on the other hand, if you join his side, its so nice. He takes care of all the wicked stuff for you, said Yeonseo as Sung-gu nodded seriously and voiced his agreement.


    Kang Somyi gave up.


    Alright. I just have to help you clear the gate quickly, yes?


    Thats right. Ill give you the Daedongyeojido if you do that.


    The Korean explorer took the lead. I think we can be done in thirty minutes.


    Excellent.


    Hyukjin nced at the unconscious Lasbon.


    Shall I grant him eternal sleep, Hyungnim?


    No, just leave him.


    Understood, Hyungnim.


    Giantgod Guild and Kang Somyi went down to the 1st floor.


    * * *


    * * *


    On the 1st floor, Hyukjin opened the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Gate.<blockquote>


    [Admission rights may be granted to yers of your choice.]


    [Admission rights have been granted to Giantgod Guild and 1 other person.]


    [Entering the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Gate.]</blockquote>


    Once inside, it wasnt hard. The gate was set up like abyrinth, but Kang Somyi already knew all the paths.


    There are a few pictogram puzzles hidden here.


    Theres a trap over there, so be careful.


    Here, you just need to power through. A lot of them are weak to fire magic.


    You have to jump down here. You wont get hurt, so just jump.


    It took less than thirty minutes to clear the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Gate. Kang Somyi breathed a long sigh.


    There it is. The Clear Crystal.


    Ill break it, Hyungnim.<blockquote>


    [The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Gate has been cleared.]


    [The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Gate Clear Reward has been given to yer So Yoohyun.]</blockquote>


    Just as Hyukjin had known from the beginning, Mrchens Breastte was given as the sole reward.


    Here it is, Hyungnim.


    Yoohyun took the breastte from his Inventory and gave it without hesitation to Hyukjin.


    Thanks.


    No thanks required, Hyungnim. Im happy I can be of service in this way, Hyungnim.


    ...


    Im your doormat, Hyungnim.


    ...


    And so, Hyukjin was able to acquire Mrchens Breastte extremely easily and with stunning speed. A <em>legendary </em>grade item. Capable of <em>growth.</em>


    The entire party left the gate.


    Excellent.


    When they were out, the events proceeded just as Hyukjin nned. He had left the unconscious Lasbon be and cleared the gate knowing this would happen.


    As expressionless as ever, Senia providedmentary only the Guardians could hear.


    And now, we will move onto the next stage that yer Kim Hyukjin has prepared.


    She was an Intermediate Administrator without much talent. And yet, the innumerable Guardians watching her unique stream focused on the next stage designed by Kim Hyukjin with rapt attention.


    Hyukjin thought to himself.


    Today


    He hardened his resolve.


    ...I might have tomit murder.

 Chapter 285

    Chapter 285


    Hyukjin knew Lasbon would wake up. He predicted what Lasbon would be thinkingthe thief was surely enraged.


    Because of his high pride, Lasbon likely felt very insulted. He would have a trump card prepared, and Hyukjin even knew what that trump card was.


    Hell use Hall of Thieves.


    Lasbon didnt be a famous thief simply by being good at thieving. He was also very skilled at directbat, at least wherever the Hall of Thieves was deployed. Moreover, when he fought with the Travelers of the Night, theirbined coordination was so effective that you could essentially call it hunting rather than fighting.


    You shouldnt have left me alive, said Lasbon.


    How ungrateful for you to say that knowing I spared you.


    Ill make you regret not killing me.


    Hyukjins world began to change, darkening. He entered the special field created by the Travelers of the Night, Hall of Thieves, an arena that enabled thieves to engage in directbat.


    In regr fields, they were basically pure thieves with terriblebat ability. But in the Hall of Thieves, it was different. This field was made for them, and here, theirbat prowess was boosted far above their usual levels.


    Hall of Thieves.


    It was one of the reasons why Lasbon and the Travelers of the Night he led were called big league thieves.


    Hyukjin looked around. The Hall of Thieves he was in now was shaped like a circr dome and looked quite simr to the one he had seen in videos. This one seemed to be the initial version. Tombstones and structures like broken pirs were scattered around, providing cover. The arena was framed by massive pirs.


    If you go past those pirs, you die.


    Only thieves could move past them. Regr yers were restricted solely to staying within the arena.


    He heard Lasbons voice.


    I <em>will</em> get back Lefrys Crossdressing Set.


    That moment, he heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [The Neb Robbers Robbing Authority has been proimed.]


    [Upon the target yers death, Duke Lefrys Crossdressing Set will have a 100% chance to drop.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin smiled grimly.


    So he wants to kill me.


    This situation was no surprise to Hyukjin. He had seen thisand exactly thisurring from a mile away.<blockquote>


    [The Hall of Thieves demands a blood offering.]</blockquote>


    The battle began. Hyukjin cranked Eye of Perception to full power.


    A total of four guys hiding around.


    Four people, including Lasbon. He located them all. One of them was a straight shot ahead of him.


    Hes confident in his stealth.


    This guy was certain he would remain undiscovered. Hyukjin took out his bow.


    No need to give them much time.


    He immediately drew on his strength, which he had been preparing in advance.<blockquote>


    [Generating a temporary ckfire Bow.]


    [The ckfire Bows base item is the Ink Bow.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin intentionally aimed elsewhere, pointing his bow at empty air to make Lasbon drop his guard. In other words, a bait.


    A bait that Lasbon swallowed very nicely.


    He doesnt know where we are!


    Once Kim Hyukjin fired off in a panic, his defense would be blown wide open. Reaching that conclusion, Lasbon recovered his calm. He had faltered for a moment when Hyukjin had suddenly pulled out a bow, but that overwhelming aura of destructive power emanating from the bow didnt mean anything if it didn''tnd.


    To think he would pull out a weapon hes not used to


    Lasbon smiled.


    This should be a breeze.


    This guy had made the wrong choice out of panic, though it did look as though he was capable of unleashing a powerful shot. Even if he wasnt used to it, he seemed to have some kind of ultimate skill ready to go.


    A powerful move youre not used to is actually fatally detrimental when used against us.


    But then, Kim Hyukjin whirled around, not losing his bnce one bit despite turning so quickly.


    <em>Fwip!</em>


    He released his bowstring.


    A scream split the air. A beam of light more akin to a railgun projectile than an arrow sted through the field. Cover was useless against it. After smashing the cover to pieces, ck mes began to devour the hapless yer.


    It was only one arrow, but the might it carried was truly incredible.


    The yer fell to the ground with a thud, powerless to resist.


    Hyukjins expression hardened ever so slightly. He was no fan of murder. He, too, was a person. There was nothing to like about a person killing another person. But the world was different now. If he didnt kill, he would be killed.


    You brought this upon yourselves.


    They were the ones who first tried to steal from him, and they were the ones who came after his life even after he spared them. Hyukjin heard a voice trembling with rage.


    Can you handle the consequences?!


    Lasbon had never imagined that level of power. Even if it was an ultimate move, the attack he had just seen went beyond magic. But big hits like this naturally consumed a great deal of stamina. With just one attack, Kim Hyukjin would be exhausted.


    Lasbon growled, Ill kill you!


    Hyukjin scoffed. He wouldnt have gotten involved if he didnt think he could handle the consequences. As he watched, Lasbons body began to blur.


    Can <em>you </em>guys handle the consequences? Hyukjin asked back.


    ...


    Youre the ones who picked a fight with me first, and youre the ones who tried to kill me first.


    ...


    He received no response. The thieves moved swiftly about, eyeing their chance.


    The Travelers of the Night never forget their enemies.


    Lasbons eyes widened. He knows who we are?


    Travelers of the Night wasnt an official name.


    How?


    They had never announced themselves publicly. So how did he know their name?


    And they never spare those whoe into the Hall of Thieves.


    He had never said anything about the Hall of Thieves, either. But this Korean in front of him knew about it. He had heard much about the Korean Style, but witnessing it in person almost gave him goosebumps.


    Hyukjin raised his bow again.


    You guys tried to kill me.


    Eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth. He used the special ability he had acquired in his first ever PvP. He had crossed the Rubicon with these people. The Travelers of the Night never forgot their grudges. They would stir trouble at every opportunity.


    I dont like killing


    There were times when you had to do things you didnt want to.


    But one more time


    He focused. His target right now wasnt a person, but an enemy. There were no people in war. Just enemies.


    Ill shoot.


    He focused on one point. His Divine Bow Tomed body honed its aim at that one spot, which grewrge in his eyes. He prated the stealth the thieves were so confident in and aimed straight for the heart.


    The heart.


    He fired at the heart, that one spot. One of the Travelers of the Night perished on the spot, their lifeforce engulfed by ck mes.


    Hyukjin dropped his bow.


    Item switching.


    He had watched and learned the timing from the Fight King V. It wasnt quite a perfect Action Duplication, but he could still pull off a passable imitation. Hyukjin whipped out an Item Shop dagger.


    After rapidly switching weapons, Hyukjin stabbed downwards, holding the dagger in reverse.


    The yer fell with a cry, a dagger in the back of his head. Hyukjin didnt stop.


    One step to the right.


    He sidestepped, then twisted a little. Something grazed his cheek.


    A poisoned needle.


    After firing the poisoned needle from the shadows, Lasbon showed himself. His eyes were bloodshot and wet with tears.


    You will die here.


    I think you said the same thing when I first arrived here.


    You will die here.


    ...


    Hyukjin noticed. Those words werent a warning, but a type of incantation.


    You will die here.


    If that was the case, why was Lasbon uttering that incantation? The reason was simple.


    In order to activate the poison that was on the needle.


    It was simultaneously an incantation and an activation phrase. There was a high chance the needle wasced with a deadly toxin.


    Even I dont know what kind of poison was on that needle, said Hyukjin.


    Its Seven Steps Viper venom.


    The Seven Steps Viper was a snake monster with a venom so deadly it could kill before the victim could take seven steps. Hyukjin took another step to the left. A dagger buried itself in the tombstone behind him.


    Its true that Seven Steps Viper venom is amazing. It can make an elephant drop dead in an instant.


    ...


    Lasbon realized that something was wrong.


    Why isnt he dying?


    Kim Hyukjin should at least be paralyzed, but he wasnt. It felt as though all his ns in the Hall of Thieves were being thoroughly destroyed.


    I knew you werent the type to bend, much less break.


    When Lasbon first went after him, Hyukjin faintly guessed that things would end this way, though he hadnt wanted it.


    And I doubt telling you to kneel at this point would do anything.


    Lasbons eyes became even more bloodshot.


    What bullshit is he going on about?


    They had already crossed a point of no return.


    I will kill you here and join myrades.


    I guessed as much.


    That was the Lasbon he knew.


    Eight years ago, you said the same thing to the Fight King V.


    The incident had caused a huge furor back then. Lasbon had staunchly refused to bend to the Fight King V.


    V tried to spare you, but


    In the end, Lasbon was killed by V, along with all of the Travelers of the Night. He chose the fate of dying with his crew, and it seemed it was doing the same now.


    Giving you a painless death is the minimum degree of respect I can give you as another human.


    It wasughable to talk of respect when killing someone, but even so, that was the final show of respect he could offer his opponent.


    Just how. Just how did you survive the Seven Steps Viper venom? asked Lasbon.


    Hyukjin decided to answer his question.


    Its merely that the purity of Athenae is a higher level than the venom of the Seven Steps Viper.


    I see.


    Lasbon didnt know what Athenae was, but his opponent seemed to have something pure that could neutralize poison. The thief took out a dagger.


    Shadow Sneak.


    He moved. If he didnt, he would be cut down. Before he knew it, his opponent had pulled out a sword, a fine de that was obviously extraordinary.


    Hyukjin used sh Step, moving behind Lasbon in an instant. Lasbons Shadow Sneak was inferior to Hyukjins Eye of Perception. Just like the Seven Steps Viper venom, everything at Lasbons disposal was inferior to what Kim Hyukjin had.


    Hyukjin swung Isabel.


    <em>Schwing!</em>


    Just as the Demon King had done to Jackson, Hyukjins sword drew a clean arc in the air. Lasbons head fell to the ground.<blockquote>


    [The blood of all the thieves has seeped into the Hall of Thieves.]


    [The Hall of Thieves hidden piece has been fulfilled.]</blockquote>


    There was a hidden piece. Hyukjin knew about it. If all of the thieves in the Hall of Thieves were killed, this hidden piece would trigger. V had gotten it back then.<blockquote>


    [Activate the Hall of Thieves hidden piece, Tombstone of Thieves?]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin shook his head.


    NO.


    He knew what kind of hidden piece it was. Clearing it would yield him a unique grade item called Miuron Shortsword. He might consider it if it was a transcendent artifact like Isabel, but he didnt want it. He had just killed four people, and he had no desire to earn a hidden piece by killing them.<blockquote>


    [Tombstone of Thieves was not activated.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin didnt greatly regret missing out on the hidden piece.<blockquote>


    [Leaving the Hall of Thieves.]</blockquote>


    * * *


    * * *


    At the same time, the Precognitive Dreamer Ham Sohyun bolted upright. All alone in the hospital room, her body floated into the air, her eyes turning white. A new prophecy fell from her lips.


    <em>There, where the singr sun rises.</em>


    <em>Stands a tombstone drenched in blood.</em>


    * * *


    Hyukjin reappeared in his original spot on the 1st floor where he had been teleported to after clearing the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Gate. Kang Somyi breathed a sigh of relief.


    Whew. What a relief. I thought you made a run for it.


    ...


    He had returned to the world he knew. Around him were the members of Giantgod Guild, as well as Kang Somyi. This was the real world. The shock he felt from killing four people just now was less than he expected.


    Lets finish the trade, then.


    <em>This </em>was the world in which he lived. The Hall of Thieves was gone.


    He turned his thoughts away from that starry world, focusing on this one.

 Chapter 286

    Chapter 286


    Before he finished his deal with Kang Somyi, there was something he had to show her.


    Hyukjin gave her the Daedongyeojido.


    Its in your Inventory, yes?


    Huh? Yes.


    Kang Somyi stared at him in puzzlement, wondering what was going on.


    Count to three.


    Okay.


    She counted aloud.


    Check your Inventory again.


    Alrihuh? Whered it go?


    Hyukjin took out the Daedongyeojido from his Inventory.


    Why do you have that?


    You saw the video earlier.


    What video?


    The video of mepeting in theft with the thief yer. That was essentially a PvP.


    It wasnt actually a PvP, but Kang Somyi was able to see it as one.


    ...Ah, so you really do have the ability to steal?


    As you just saw.


    Lying about having such an ability was a bit dicey. He would lie without hesitation if it were just Kang Somyi, but the Guardians were watching right now. Lying about being a thief was especially inadvisable in front of the Milky Way Neutron Star, the Guardian who had gifted him the Stardust.


    Unable to wrap her head around it, Somyi simply asked, Why did you show me that?


    Once you have the Daedongyeojido, will you immediately choose me as your liege?


    The Korean explorer pouted. Tch. I promised you that earlier, didnt I?


    I just want to be sure. We havent built that much trust between us, have we?


    Kang Somyi pursed her lips in slight displeasure, but she soon nodded.


    Well, youre not wrong.


    She really believed what he said wasnt wrong, a thought that made her feel somewhat better.


    The person I choose as my liege should be this thorough, at least.


    He was showing her that he was quite thorough and cautious. Somyi recalled the admiration she had felt when watching him y and when seeing his gift for drawing the big picture.


    If Im going to choose him anyway, I need to just believe and follow.


    There was no use crying over spilled milkit was done and couldnt be changed. She decided to just ept it.


    I can just choose you right away, right?


    Yes.


    After being given the Daedongyeojido again, Kang Somyi used it immediately.<blockquote>


    [The hidden power of the Daedongyeojido has been activated.]


    [You can advance to the Explorer of Service.]


    [However, you must set a Recipient of Service.]</blockquote>


    She selected Kim Hyukjin as her liege without a single moment of hesitation. Somyi briefly knelt before her new liege, a ceremonial gesture.<blockquote>


    [The Recipient of Service cannot be changed.]</blockquote>


    She still made her choice. After making up her mind once, she didnt look back.<blockquote>


    [The Recipient of Service has been set.]


    [yer Kim Hyukjin has been set as the Recipient of Service.]


    [You have advanced to the Explorer of Service.]</blockquote>


    * * *


    * * *


    As Somyi stood up, her jaw dropped. She didnt hide her shockher thoughts and emotions were written all over her face.


    What happened?


    O-One moment. I need to process my surprise a little.


    In truth, Hyukjin knew exactly what had happened to her. Eye of Perception was reading it all.<blockquote>


    [The Explorer of Service has chosen you as their liege.]


    [The Explorer of Service has pledged their loyalty to you.]


    [Eye of Perception reads all information regarding the Explorer of Service.]</blockquote>


    Eye of Perception had a proficiency of [2]. But the actual proficiency Hyukjin was experiencing was at least 3.


    No, I would believe you if you told me it was 4, or even 5.


    Hyukjin was experiencing a new world.<blockquote>


    [When used on the Explorer of Service, Eye of Perception will disy the maximum limit of its ability.]</blockquote>


    Almost as if he were mentally connected to Kang Somyi, he could vividly feel her emotions. It felt as though he could see everything about her.


    This is Eye of Perceptions future!


    It was fascinating. What she was thinking, what her upbringing was like, what she wanted right now, what emotions she was feeling, he could sense them all. Almost like he had be Kang Somyi herself.


    Shes incredibly happy right now.


    She was rejoicing about having gained the ss of her dreams. Hyukjin could feel that clearly.


    She wanted that ss so badly?


    Kang Somyi was someone who was rather used to helping people, as well as someone who enjoyed the act.


    A unique person who derives joy from serving someone.


    Normally, people liked <em>being </em>served, but this woman enjoyed serving someone else. It wasnt that strange.


    Information crashed into him like the rising tide.


    She likes men, but she also likes women.


    It wasnt terribly useful info, but he was able to see her sexual orientation. He could even see that she was currently slightly interested in Shin Yeonseo.


    A mountain of information came in, including all her skills. Not only could he see what they were called, but he could see exactly what they did. The moment he looked at them, he saw it all.


    Not only that


    Most surprising was that he could see what hidden pieces the Explorer of Service ss had. What hidden pieces it would have in the future, what scenarios it would involve in the future, it was all there, as if he had been gifted with the most powerful future sight.


    I guess I can only read up to the intermediate period.


    The intermediate period usually referred to level 40-60. He could see all the information regarding Kang Somyis ss scenarios for that period.


    This is amazing.


    That wasnt the only revtion.


    If I reach the expert period if Eye of Perceptions proficiency greatly increases


    When that happened, didnt that mean he could analyze not just Kang Somyi, but other yers with this level of acuity? The yer, the scenarios they would get, even their hidden pieces. He would see it all. A new world would unfurl before him.


    This is Eye of Perceptions future path.


    This sensation of glimpsing the future, of tasting the power of his future ability, sent shivers down his spine.


    Hoooo. Somyi let out a long exhale. Ive regained my cool.


    I see youve changed a lot.


    This is all thanks to you. Thanks to my advancement, Ive


    Youve reached level 44, right?


    How did you know?


    Because Im your liege.


    Yeonseos eyes turned as round as saucers. What? Level 44?!


    Everyone in Giantgod was shocked.


    Hyungnim! Is thisdy really level 44?


    Fuck! Even Im still level 41! Even Bum-gu is 41, arghh!


    My level has been synchronized with yours. Its a special perk of the Explorer of Service, Somyi exined. But my God, to think you were level 44 I didnt think there were any level 44s out there.


    Goosebumps rose on her arms.


    He was level 44?


    Koreas official top Ranker was the Taeguk Shield Song Kiyeol. ording to public knowledge, he was level 39. Most of the yers in Taeguk Shield were in theirte 30s. That was the same for Song Junghyes Blood and Iron Lion, as well.


    I know Wings is also in theirte 30s.


    But it seemed all of Giantgod Guild were past level 40, and the person she had chosen as her liege, Kim Hyukjin, was level 44.


    His level being so high isnt the only shocker.


    It wasnt impossible for there to be people with high levels. After all, there were many Irregrs out there. As an explorer, that was a fact Somyi had long acknowledged.


    But despite having such a high level and skilled teammates, his name ispletely unknown?


    That was what shocked her. This was a level 44 yer the world didnt know. A yer who was leading a guild packed with level 40+ yers.


    Hyukjin read Kang Somyis thoughts like a book, not because he wanted to, but simply because he saw them with a single look. Everything was automatically analyzed and registered by Eye of Perception.


    I was a bit surprised when you saw through my Cognitive Dissonance in the D-Tower.


    Ah, so that unique barrier thing was Cognitive Dissonance.


    Somyi nodded in realization.


    So thats how. Hes been making full use of that ability to thoroughly hide himself.


    But could he truly pull the wool over the eyes of everyone in the world with that one ability alone?


    No, hes got a co-conspirator.


    Hyukjin grinned. I think I know what youre thinking.


    Huh?


    My co-conspirator is the guildmaster of Taeguk Shield, Song Kiyeol. And if we go a little further, Sungshin CEO Song Kiyoung is an ally of mine. And technically, so is Michelle of the US. There are also a few Italian yers.


    Ah!


    Kang Somyi shivered like a current of electricity was running through her body.


    So you put up Sungshin as a front, and while doing so, you built rtions with top Rankers.


    Basically, yes.


    Wow.


    Pure awe filled her. She had never thought in her wildest dreams that there would be a man like him in Korea. She could only think that it was no wonder that her teacher was so obsessed with him.


    I kinda doubted Teacher when he said you were one of the people qualified to be the star, but


    Pure awe. That, too, was visible in Hyukjins eyes.


    You said the goal of explorers is to find the king, right?


    Yes, thats right. Now my goal is to make you, no, make my liege, into the king.


    What if I refuse to be the king?


    Somyi closed her mouth. After a moment of silence, she responded, The true king will be unable to refuse the throne.


    Why?


    Because the king doesnt rise to power of his own will, but is raised to the throne by the people.


    Hyukjinughed. Fine, whatever.


    Their deal wasnt yet concluded.


    Ive be your liege. ording to the System, that is.


    Thats right. I really think it was the right call to choose you as my liege. Im truly happy right now; I just wish I could really express it.


    Her frustration was conveyed to Hyukjin. She was beingpletely, 100% sincere. Kang Somyi was a woman who was excessively honest about her true self.


    Well be heading to Nanba Terminal now.


    Huh? Im going as well?


    It would be a shame to leave behind an explorer as useful as you.


    But still Teacher will be there


    You can just be a disciple who exceeds their teacher.


    Kang Somyi felt sincerely troubled. If she took Kim Hyukjin to Nanba Terminal, she would be going against her teacher Jacksons ns. Those ns would be ruined by her, his disciple.


    Whats wrong? Are you worried Jackson will be displeased?


    ...Yes.


    You misunderstand him. Hyukjin shook his head. Hell actually be happy.


    Howe?


    Jackson wants to turn me into a king more than he wants Song Junghye to be one.


    Jacksons highest priority was Kim Hyukjin, something even Hyukjin roughly understood. He didnt know if Jackson really meant it, but that was what he had said.


    For Jackson, the gift he prepared for Song Junghye getting swiped by me wont be that terrible an oue.


    But Teacher purposefully sent me to you in order to


    In order to hinder me, yes?


    Not exactly


    I know he instructed you to make the clear slow, but safe. Hyukjin grinned. Tell him you helped me in order to test my qualifications as a king. Jackson will be happy.


    Still


    She needed onest nudge.


    A hidden piece of yours is there.


    Ill go!


    I thought you were worried about Jackson getting mad?


    Im an oblivious woman. Hehehe.


    Kang Somyi enthusiastically took the lead, the explorer who had been wary of stepping on her teachers toes nowhere to be seen. She looked to be in an extremely good mood.


    Hidden pieces are love, hidden pieces are life!


    And not long afterwards, the entire Giantgod crew arrived in Japan. Hyukjin immediately headed to the Nanba Terminal Dungeon. Under Kang Somyis guidance, they entered the dungeon and proceeded on a boat granted by the System. They went from the first ind to the second, killing a few monsters on the ind before moving to the third. The first two inds were already cleared, so they were able to move forward with ease.<blockquote>


    [You have arrived at the 3rd ind, Furuima.]


    [Entering the Furuima Field.]</blockquote>


    There, they began to see the members of Blood and Iron Lion as well as other yers.

 Chapter 287

    Chapter 287


    Furuima Field was a fairly peaceful-looking ind. Ferns were growing vigorously amidst the dense forest of old trees, and skittering around along the low vegetation were Legged Mushrooms.


    Legged Mushrooms were neutral monsters, and Blood and Iron Lion, who had arrived here first, was ignoring them.


    Michelle does good work, mused Kim Hyukjin.


    The members of Blood and Iron Lion werent the only ones there. Just as Hyukjin had arranged, there were other yers here, one of whom he recognized.


    Mark seems to be the leader.


    If Korea had the Divine Archer Hyun Junghwa, the US had the Divine Archer Mark. Both were representative archers for their countries. Hyukjin was already acquainted with Mark.


    And the group hes leading isnt the Michelle Corps but the ck Crow.


    It wasnt public knowledge yet, but these people belonged to the ck Crow, the elites of Michelles mercenarypany, Crow. They were the worlds strongest mercenaries, mercenaries who would make appearances in major incidents of national scale time and time again.


    Though well, not yet.


    Mark would be a member of the Michelle Corps. In other words, the Michelle Corps and ck Crow werent fully separated yet.


    Though it wasnt terribly meaningful to split hairs between the two, the Michelle Corps was the group that operated in the light under Michelles directmand, while the ck Crow were mercenaries who handled the more unsavory work in the shadows.


    Mark, of course, recognized Hyukjin as well.


    The ck VIP?


    At this time, the only person designated as a ck VIP of Crow was Kim Hyukjin. For reference, that was a privilege Michelle intended on granting to less than fifteen people worldwide.


    Kim Hyukjin is here.


    Mark was one of the few yers who knew this enigmatic Korean yers true appearance. He had promised to assist Kim Hyukjin in clearing the Sangam World Cup Stadium and Gardens by the Beach dungeons. But the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon broke and now, it was said to be gone altogether.


    Mark watched Kim Hyukjin with interesthe had been curious. The very thorough and meticulous Kim Hyukjins ns had gone awry. He had made a deal with Michelle to get Mark to participate, and Mark himself had epted. But the dungeon no longer existed. The future seen by this seerthat was the Michelle Corps believed he washade crashing down.


    On either side of Song Junghye were the Poisoned Dagger Jung Sangchul and Kang Woongmin the Adamant. Jung Sangchul, who had sworn loyalty to Kim Hyukjin, asked offhandedly, What are you doing here?


    In his hand was a poisoned needle. On its gleaming, silver tip was a powerful poison.


    Hyukjin responded in the same casual manner. There werent any entrance restrictions, were there? Am I not allowed toe in here?


    As he spoke, Hyukjin looked around.


    I dont see Jackson.


    Had Jackson note with Song Junghye? That couldnt be. The explorer had purposefully sent Kang Somyi to handle Hyukjin so he could be here. He must havee along. He was likely exploring this ind, Furuima.


    The explorer from ck Crow is out exploring as well.


    A quick scan with Eye of Perception found no explorers. Hyukjin could infer about the situation.


    Theyre working together.


    The ck Crow was an outstanding team. From the looks of it, Blood and Iron Lion had joined hands with them. Meanwhile, the ck Crow was concealing daggers in their hearts and clearing the dungeon under the veil of a temporary alliance.


    Theyre nning on stabbing Song Junghye in the back at a crucial moment.


    It was an amusing n. Mark hade with a pretty decent strategy. Instead of butting heads right from the outset, the American archer was nning on working together before interfering to keep the fleet out of Song Junghyes hands.


    Theyre mercenaries, after all. Thats the perfect level of involvement for them.


    They didnt choose to have a full-blown confrontation with Song Junghye. Hyukjin saw that as a good thingit was proof that they were using their heads.


    Song Junghye threw her arm out in front of Jung Sangchul.


    Ill be the one to speak.


    Yes, Guildmaster, responded Jung Sangchul, taking a step back.


    Miss Kang Somyi, called Song Junghye, her eyes hard. I believe you owe me an exnation. As Im sure you know, this is a dungeon that cannot be entered without an explorer.


    Entering was possible, but progressing afterwards was impossible. Not only was it impossible to find the boat without an explorer, but you wouldnt be permitted to move from ind to ind.


    Kang Somyi sheepishly scratched the back of her head. Ah Jeez, I was trying to hide because of how awkward this is.


    She was hiding behind So Yoohyun, but it was futile. There was no way her presence would go unnoticed. She walked out from behind the massive So Yoohyuns back.


    This is reallyplicated, Guildmaster.


    Have you betrayed us?


    No, its not that!


    Kang Somyi waved her hand. That moment, Hyukjin saw Song Junghyes mouth move ever so slightly, forming the words, Kill her. Jung Sangchul raised his right hand.


    The poisoned needle is in that hand.


    The assassin didnt try to bluff it. He simply, straightforwardly raised his hand, curling it into a pipe and blowing through, shooting the poisoned needle outward.


    Hyukjin raised his left hand, the poisoned needle embedding itself in his palm.


    A twinge, and that was all.


    It stings.


    That was an understatement. If he didnt have Athenaes me, this poison might have caused him a great deal of pain.


    He really used a fatal poison.


    Hyukjin didnt know what poison it was, exactly, but it was incredibly potent. Hyukjins palm briefly turned ck before returning to normal. He internally praised Jung Sangchul. Using a poison this serious was the only way to avoid arousing Song Junghyes suspicion.


    If a normal yer got hit by this, they would have died on the spot. Hyukjin smirked. Did you just try to kill my explorer?


    Song Junghye whirled around, and the next moment, a crisp p echoed in the air.


    Who told you to act without my permission? Do you want to die?


    My, look at her go.


    Hyukjin smiled inwardly, knowing very well that she had made the order. However, he kept that to himself. Jung Sangchul knelt down, and his guildmaster took a few steps forward before bending low at the waist.


    This one is on me. I failed to control my subordinate.


    Ah, that so?


    As you can see, hes just too loyal. It seems he was unable to forgive a traitor.


    Any more shows of loyalty, and youll have a lot of dead people on your hands.


    Hyukjin gave a mockingugh, knocking away her feeble excuse. Song Junghye bit her lips slightly.


    Why did he have to show up here?!


    Her fists were trembling. But Blood and Iron Lion werent the only ones here. Watching from the side were American Rankers. She couldnt carelessly put her grudges on disy here. In that respect, Kim Hyukjin openly expressing his hostility towards her was a rookie move.


    These people are US Rankers.


    Each and every one of them was a remarkable yer. There was no doubt Kim Hyukjin was unaware of that, which was why he was acting so audaciously.


    Junghye used a Trantion Marble, wanting to show ck Crow what was happening. At least in this moment, from an outsiders perspective, Kim Hyukjin looked rude and Song Junghye looked polite.


    Are you stupid? Do you think these guys wont know that Jung Sangchul used a poisoned needle?


    It wasnt to kill her, Giantgod Guildmaster. It was simply to make her pay a small price for her betrayal.


    If that needle had hit Miss Somyi, she would have died, Hyukjin replied.


    You gave the order. To kill her.<em></em>And Jung Sangchul had acquiesced by firing the poison needle, trusting Hyukjin to step in.


    Surely not. Yourepletely fine, arent you?


    Thats because


    Song Junghye jumped in, as if she had seized a good opportunity to strike. What? Do you mean to boast that youre that outstanding a yer? That you werepletely fine getting hit with a poison so strong it would have instantly killed Miss Kang Somyi?


    Hyukjin smirked. Yep, bingo.


    But youre a sovereign.


    I am, but


    Hyukjin pulled out a bow, one he had purchased from the beginner period Item Shop. Mark recognized it as the Sturdy Wooden Bow Hyukjin had used during the auction.


    It wasnt as versatile as a regr Wooden Bow, so the Sturdy Wooden Bow didnt see much use. But it was back in Kim Hyukjins hands today. He drew the bowstring, and before anyone could stop him, he fired.


    Sovereigns can do a bit of everything, you know.


    Mark focused on Hyukjins bow.


    Hes fast!


    And just like back then, he perfectly subdued his target, Jung Sangchul, with a single arrow.


    Ngh! Jung Sangchul fell over clutching his stomach.


    Miss Somyi isnt dead, so I wont kill you, either.


    What do you think youre doing?!


    The members of Blood and Iron Lion bristled, drawing their weapons. Greathammer, gauntlets, staff, sword; out came all manner of weapons, and a woman in a white nuns habit retreated to the back.


    The Moon Priestess Lee Sora is here, too.


    The air felt charged and ready to explode. The person who quenched the flickering mes was none other than Jackson.


    I was out exploring for one moment, and Ie back to this. Whats going on?


    * * *


    * * *


    Jacksonughed heartily.


    Goodness gracious, what a turn of events.


    Jackson didnt press Kang Somyi for many details. He appeared to have realized the gist of what had happened. He spoke honestly, apparently unoffended.


    Youpletely exposed my scheming.


    Thanks to that, I ended uping here.


    Alright, its my loss.


    Jackson was facepalming with augh, but he seemed extremely delighted, not taken aback. Hyukjin closely examined the explorers expression.


    Was he considering the possibility of meing here?


    It seemed so. Though the possibility itself was low, Jackson seemed to have been deeply hopeful that Kim Hyukjin would beat the odds and find his way here.


    Yeonseo mumbled quietly, Cant I just beat that woman up?


    Naturally, that woman referred to Song Junghye. Once the words left her mouth, Yeonseo froze in rm.


    Get ahold of yourself, Yeonseo.


    She had been exuding killing intent without realizing it. The impulse to kill Song Junghye had been gripping her entire body.


    What was I thinking?


    How could she be entertaining thoughts of killing someone? That was impermissible. She couldnt be like this. Yeonseo still thought that.


    Meanwhile, Jackson said, Since things have turned out like this, I think it would be good for us three teams to clear this ce together.


    Junghye blurted out, Ridiculous! And then, she immediately curbed her outrage, conscious of the gazes of the American Rankers on her. She stered on another personable smile. Their guild and our guild are simply too poor a match for that. Trying to work together will be less efficient. Jackson.


    I dont think you need to worry about that, Guildmaster.


    Jackson continued his exnationthis ce had three forks. All three of them could be paths to the clear.


    I think each guild can take one route.


    Mark was the first to respond. The two of you, please discuss amongst yourselves first. We, the ck Crow, will make our decision afterwards.


    For Mark, it was an extremely good situation. He was a mercenary, so all he had to do was do his job as a mercenary well. The ck VIP had shown up in person, so this was a closed case.


    It was down to Kim Hyukjin and Song Junghye. Hyukjin turned to his guild members.


    Well be taking the path on the right.


    Blood and Iron Lion will take the middle.


    And ck Crow took the left. Hyukjin smiled secretly to himself.


    In a pinch well be able to surround them from both sides.


    The arrangement wasid out in a way that would allow Giantgod and the ck Crow to encircle Blood and Iron Lion, like the crane wing formation.


    Kang Somyiughed. Ive been fired from Blood and Iron Lion, havent I?


    You have. You almost died, you know.


    It hasnt been long since I was hired, and now Im fired. How sad. Sheughed again, not looking very angry at all. Oh right. That makes you my lifes savior, doesnt it?


    I suppose so.


    Whoa. To think I would have a savior one day, too. Fascinating! Kang Somyi beamed brightly. Ill do my best so we can absolutely nab a faster clear.


    She prattled on, clearly excited. The newly advanced Explorer of Service had already deduced what kind of dungeon this was.


    This is a winner-takes-all dungeon. Lets go! Guildmaster.


    Under Kang Somyis guidance, Hyukjin began to hatch another scheme.


    Ill try using this.


    He would use it by borrowing some of Kang Somyis power.

 Chapter 288

    Chapter 288


    Hyukjin observed Kang Somyi in detail. At least with her, Eye of Perception was at its strongest.<blockquote>


    [yer]


    Name: Kang Somyi


    Age: 23


    Level: 44


    ss: Explorer of Service


    ss special note: Sovereign set as Kim Hyukjin


    Title: [New Continent Pioneer] [Passionate Explorer] [Ruler of the Freedom Gate]


    Guardian:<ol><li>


    Ruler of the New Continent - Daedongyeojido scenario in progress.</li><li>


    Nameless Observer - Newly Interested scenario in progress.</li></ol>


    Innate ability: [Whisper Marble] [Clear Pathfinding] [Genuine Service]


    State: Competitive / Desire to Serve / Driven


    Disposition: Optimistic / Positive


    Summary:<ol><li>


    Explorer of Service Burning with Competitiveness</li><li>


    Hopelessly Naive Human Just Doing their Best</li></ol><ul><li>


    The disposition/state/summary only show the most representative and can change ording to the situation.</li><li>


    Each aspect can be viewed in greater detail.</li></ul></blockquote>


    Upon checking her status, one thing caught his attention. Not only was Hyukjins Guardian, the Nameless Observer, showing interest in Kang Somyi, but she was contracted to <em>two </em>Guardians.


    A dual contract at level 44... Shes an Irregr for sure.


    Also, most of the text was glowing with yellow light. He had ess to the detailed exnations, so he opened up Whisper Marble.<blockquote>


    [Whisper Marble]


    Whisper Marbles enable the use of a System whisper. The range is determined by the casters stats. Whisper Marble can be gifted to a target yers Gift Box.<ul><li>


    Cooldown: 1 hour</li><li>


    Effect range / gifting range: Within the same field/dungeon/gate.</li></ul></blockquote>


    Kang Somyi began her guidance.


    The old forest was thick with trees and nketed by ferns and unknown weeds, and just like before, mushrooms were busily moving through the vegetation.


    Lets go.


    As he walked forward following Somyis lead, Hyukjin activated one effect of Eye of Perception, focusing on the skill effect.<blockquote>


    2) Skill effect:<ul><li>


    Flow Perception: Visualize the flow of nature.</li><li>


    Action Replication: Copy the actions of an observation target (can be used when a special condition is met).</li><li>


    Title Replication: Use the title and simr abilities of an observation target (can be used when a special condition is met).</li><li>


    Ability Share: Share an ability with designated observation targets (can be used when a special condition is met).</li></ul></blockquote>


    The special condition here was referring to the target of his observation, Kang Somyi. He normally couldnt use these abilities with his current Observers Eye proficiency, but if his target was her, he could.


    Action Replication.


    Just like how Eye of Perceptions proficiency was boosted on Kang Somyi, the same applied to Observers Eye. This was the power of her ss, Explorer of Service, and a perk for the yer she served.


    Last time, he had tried to replicate Michelles Guardian Tower Summoning. Having done it once, it came to him more easily this time.<blockquote>


    [The use of Action Replication must be preceded by sufficient observation.]


    [Please set the specific name of the ''Action Replication Target'' that you have ascertained through ''sufficient observation''.]</blockquote>


    He had observed as much of Kang Somyi as he needed to with his boosted Eye of Perception.


    <em>Action Replication.</em><blockquote>


    [Using an Observers Eye skill, Action Replication.]


    [Action Replication can be used.]


    [Using the innate ability Whisper Marble.]</blockquote>


    He had already experienced Somyis Whisper Marble in the D-Tower. It wasnt very hard to use. Through the skill, he sent a whisper to Mark.


    Can you hear me? Check your Gift Box, you should have received a Whisper Marble.


    A short whileter, he heard a response from Mark.


    Eh? What is this?


    * * *


    * * *


    Mark thought it was a good thing that Kim Hyukjin was here. The ck Crows objective during this mission was to get in Song Junghyes way, and the person who could do just that hade to do it himself. Mark thought he had a free ticket to reducing Song Junghyes antagonism a little.


    All things in moderation.


    Mercenaries were just that: mercenaries. They had no stake in this. Mark picked another path and wasnt nning on working that hard to clear the dungeon, but then, he got a whisper.


    Can you hear me? Check your Gift Box, you should have received a Whisper Marble.


    Not only did he get a whisper, but he even received a gift called a Whisper Marble.


    Whisper? Whisper Marble?


    There was a ss of yers that used whispers. They were usually explorers.<blockquote>


    [Using Whisper Marble.]</blockquote>


    But he, an archer, could now send a whisper.<blockquote>


    [Whispers can only be sent to the person who gifted the Whisper Marble.]</blockquote>


    Mark was bbergasted.


    I thought he was an archer at first, but it turns out hes a sovereign.


    And then, he thought Kim Hyukjin was a sovereign, but now he was using whispers?


    Just what <em>is </em>he?


    It was confusing. What kind of yer had this many abilities?


    What is this?


    Just one of my abilities.


    You also have explorer ss abilities?


    Yes. Is that not allowed?


    Mark stopped in ce. Thinking about it, there were no rules against it; it was just that other yers were incapable of the same feat, leading to the general agreement that each ss had a perk or two of its own. That was all. It wasnt that the existence of an Irregr like Kim Hyukjin was illegal.


    In any case, I sent a whisper because it wasnt looking like ck Crow was going to work hard.


    You jest. We are nning on doing our best.


    Mark gave a rebuttal, but he felt a prick of consciousness. How could there be a VIP with such a terrifyingly keen eye? There were no pushovers to take advantage of here.


    Our explorer predicts that our paths will converge at a certain point.


    We think the same.


    The explorer on their side, Jackson, must know this as well.


    Everyone knew. They would cross paths at least once during the clear. Hyukjin continued.


    And this is a winner-takes-all dungeon.


    Is that so?


    One personor one teamwould get everything.


    Then Guildmaster Kim, you cant be thinking of


    Your guess is correct.


    Hyukjin smiled wide.


    We need to get her good.


    How?


    The way is divided into three forks, and each path should have a clear item or clear hint. I imagine the yer with all three will win.


    Were going to cooperate with you either way.


    Their objective wasnt to clear this dungeon. All they had to do was fulfill the VIPsmission. But when Mark heard what Kim Hyukjin said next, his blood ran cold.


    Attack Blood and Iron Lion.


    Huh?


    Didnt you ept that you would antagonize Blood and Iron Lion when you took thismission anyway?


    They definitely had.


    You were intending on backstabbing her in the first ce, no?


    O-Of course, but


    Were you not going to do so because I was here?


    O-Of course not. We were going to properly interfere so that they could not acquire the fleet.


    So attack them.


    Do you mean that we should kill them?


    Ill leave that up to you. But all you have to do is take their clear item. Im not sure yet, but you should be able to do so using a System setting.


    It was winner-takes-all.


    She might give it to me if I convince her.


    But that wouldnt happen. Song Junghyes pride was too high for her to ever concede.


    Surely ck Crow isnt weaker than Blood and Iron Lion.


    Our assessment is that they are toe to toe with us.


    All the better to fight with.


    Why do you say that?


    Because ck Crow and Blood and Iron Lion are well-matched.


    Hm.


    Blood and Iron Lion and I are enemies. Do you think Blood and Iron Lion would go all out when Im standing right there?


    That moment, Mark reeled with realization.


    Ah.


    If ck Crow went head to head with Blood and Iron Lion, the most likely oue was a pyrrhic victory. Even if one side won, they would either be significantly wounded or greatly weakened. In such a situation, Giantgod Guild looming nearby was a huge thorn in Blood and Iron Lions side.


    Blood and Iron Lion wont be able to oppose us fully.


    On the other hand, ck Crow could pull out all the stops. They were on the same side as Giantgod Guild anyway. For starters, it was no exaggeration to say that Giantgod had employed the ck Crow.


    Blood and Iron Lion shouldnt know were on the same team as Giantgod.


    Without this critical information, Blood and Iron Lion would have no choice but to take a passive stance. And <em>that </em>would manifest as a dip in their strength, tipping the scales decidedly in ck Crows favor.


    In that case, will Giantgod not participate in the fight?


    Ill decide depending on how things go. Not having to fight would be the best oue, but if fightings the only choice, I have no intent on running away.


    Mark breathed a sigh of relief. No matter how tied up Blood and Iron Lion was, they were still daunting foes to take head-on. If Hyukjins Giantgod Guild were to pitch in, the tide of the battle would turnpletely.


    But I think Kim Hyukjin has some other ulterior motive.


    <em>Im not sure yet, but you should be able to do so using a System setting.</em>


    Those words bothered him, too. But he decided not to overthink things. Amission was amission. He just had to do his job. Still, he was a little dismayed. He thought this job would be easier with Kim Hyukjins appearance, but he had the feeling things had actually gotten moreplicated.


    Lets just focus on doing a good job.


    * * *


    A White Shield summoned on her right wrist, Kim Sunhwa walked while keeping her guard up. As she did so, she caught a glimpse of her brothers expression.


    Hes smiling faintly?


    That expression, she knew it. That was the expression her brother made when he was doing something extremely favorable for him.


    Curiosity sprang to life within her. What would he gain this time? What kind of y would he show this time? What was he doing, to be donning such a sinister smile? She was curious, but she didnt ask. She had to be on guard against the small mushrooms busily moving about, and she couldnt ignore the presence of monsters she felt in the area. She had to be prepared for danger. That was a tanks role.


    Hyukjin said very quietly, If you do a good job stealingter, Ill give you chicken.


    A [] popped up over the squirrel on Hyukjins shoulder. The truth was, Hyukjin didnt think ck Crow could do everything for him.


    Mercenaries had their limits, as mercenaries. What Hyukjin told ck Crow was to simply go all out. It was to that end that he had reassured them. Blood and Iron Lion would have their hands tied, so they could rampage to their hearts content.


    Thats just a distraction.


    Basically, pulling aggro.


    The real work will be done by you. Right?


    Darongi nodded. Their side had Jackson. Hyukjin had determined that in a normal situationpletely devoid of chaos or distraction, it would be hard to steal the opposing partys clear hint. That was where the ck Crow came inthey would break the opponents stance, make them show an opening.


    And Hyukjins words were ryed to the Guardians via Senias Voice Amplification.<blockquote>


    [The Conductor of Sound is happy about your scheme.]


    [The Courageous Lion King ridicules your shameful method.]


    [The Milky Way Neutron Star focuses very intently on you.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin felt his mood lighten a little.


    The Milky Way Neutron Star, too?


    The Milky Way Neutron Star hadnt taken back the Stardust. It was probably because even though Hyukjin himself wasnt a thief, he was making good use of the thief Darongi.


    Theyre saying it doesnt matter that Im not a thief.


    Excellent. He had a slightly better idea of the Milky Way Neutron Stars tastes. Even if you werent a thief yer, you just had to show excellent thief y.


    And the Milky Way Neutron Star was famous for showering down generous sponsorships. As thieves liked to joke, Nab the Milky Way Neutron Stars heart, and youll be a rich man. Those words were actually trueafter all, this was a Guardian who only sponsored a select few thieves.


    They were a big fish, and Hyukjin was going to do his best to catch them.

 Chapter 289

    Chapter 289


    Two hundred meters ahead, monster detected between the red tree and fallen pine, said Kang Somyi.


    Hyukjin felt it, too.


    Thats an Iron Rhinoceros.


    It was an animal monster with powerful defense and strong physical offense. It waspletely d in iron, to the point that some yers ssified it as a machine type.


    Their average levels are in the early 40s.


    It posed little difficulty if Giantgod worked together. <em>If </em>it was the only foe. Hyukjin lowered his voice.


    For now, we hide.


    After putting a temporary hold on engaging it, he sent a whisper.


    If you run into an Iron Rhinoceros, dont hunt it.


    U-Understood.


    Mark acknowledged the order, but he questioned the reasoning. He was supplied the answer shortly afterwards.


    The Iron Rhinoceros is a paired monster.


    Whats that?


    Where theres an Iron Rhinoceros, theres always an Iron Armadillo nearby.


    Understood. Ill keep it in mind.


    Getting intel from Kim Hyukjin fascinated Mark.


    Is it that his explorer is good, or that Kim Hyukjins ability as a sovereign is outrageous?


    Intel was, of course, a type of asset. Outstanding sovereigns possessed a lot of information. In that respect, Kim Hyukjin was a fearsome sovereign.


    You absolutely must kill the armadillo first.


    The order was important.


    If the Iron Rhinoceros dies, the armadillo goes berserk.


    Upon witnessing the Iron Rhinoceros death, the Iron Armadillos body would turn red-hot and melt down. By melting down its body, it would turn everything in its vicinity into scorched earth. There was no way for yers at the current stage to fend off a berserking Iron Armadillo.


    Do you happen to know anything about their weaknesses, maybe? Their bodies look awfully sturdy.


    Your explorer should be able to deduce that much.


    The explorer in ck Crow was named Widget. Since he was a member of ck Crow, his skills far surpassed the average yers. If he was the same Widget Hyukjin knew, he should be able to figure out how to defeat the Iron Armadillo.


    But Ill give you a little hint. Youll need a close-ranged martial artist.


    Understood.


    Mark didnt ask for more details. It would have been nice to get the full run-down from Kim Hyukjin, but Mark had his pride, toohis pride that they were the strongest yers in the US. Even without additional info, he was confident they could prevail with their own power.


    Meanwhile, back at Kim Hyukjins party, Kang Somyi faced the others. Do you know what an armadillo is? she asked.


    Most of Giantgod knew, but Sunhwa didnt.


    Whats that?


    Kinda like a big rat covered in a hard shell.


    Like a turtle rat?


    Mm, how about this? You know what pill bugs are?


    I do!


    It looks like a giant pill bug, but its got four legs and a tail. Its wearing hard armor.


    Sunhwa epted the exnation. Is it stronger than that rhino?


    I dont think it is yet, but it feels pretty sus. I think I need to look into it a bit.


    Hyukjin was very satisfied by Kang Somyis perceptiveness.


    She can sense that in a situation where she knows nothing?


    Earlier, Kang Somyi had said that the Explorer of Service was the best ss within the limits of her talent tes.


    This must be intuition.


    Intuition was a key factor for yers. Kang Somyi had recognized the danger the Iron Armadillo posed with intuition alone. Even if she hadnt been able to pinpoint what exactly that danger was, that, too, woulde in time with further growth.


    She can probably puzzle it out given enough time, but nows not the time for that.


    This was a winner-takes-all dungeon. He had zero intent on letting Song Junghye take the fleet.


    The skin of the rhino and the shell of the armadillo are made of the same material. Right, Somyi?


    Hm? Yes.


    But if you observe the rhinos skin closely, there are parts where it looks awkwardly welded together. If you roughly measure the size of those pieces, it looks to be about the same size as the armadillos shell.


    Kang Somyi peered at the monsters. His words were exactly right. She pped a fist to her palm in realization. It seems that the rhino took off a part of its skin and gave it to the armadillo.


    Extrapting further


    So we can conclude that those two monsters are a pair. But it looks like the armadillo is way weaker than the rhino. So much so that its hard to imagine them being a set.


    Kang Somyi furtively checked Hyukjins expression. There were a lot of times when she looked naive and airheaded, but not now. She was an Explorer of Service, and she could sense some measure of her lieges thoughts.


    Theres no way Kim Hyukjin already knew everything I just said, is there?


    That seemed all too true. A chill ran down her spine.


    Did he already know everything and gave me a hint?


    No way.


    That cant be true, right?


    But for some reason, she had the feeling her guess was true. Her heart thumped hard.


    This feels great.


    She enjoyed this feeling of being tested and observed by the person she had chosen as her liege, this person who could be no morepatible by nature with her ss, the Explorer of Service. She liked it. She even felt a flush of joy for picking the right liege.


    I can guess that the armadillo is capable of some kind of big attack. She quickly continued. If you look, the rhino isnt very wary of its surroundings. But the armadillo is constantly on guard. I think it has also noticed us.


    They were still quite a ways apart, but the armadillo seemed to have felt their presence.


    From the looks of it, the armadillo wants to protect the rhino. Almost like a dog running circles around its owner.


    Hyukjin, too, was happy. He felt that he had made the right call in bringing Kang Somyi to his side. She seemed even more skilled than her reputation in his past suggested, and it probably wasnt just his imagination.


    So I think if something bad happens to the rhino or if its in danger, the armadillo will fight back no matter what it takes.


    Hyukjin nodded. He stated his conclusion point-nk.


    So basically, we need to hunt the armadillo first.


    If they hunted the rhino first, the armadillo would go nuts. On the other hand, if they hunted the armadillo first, the difficulty wouldnt change.


    Kang Somyi responded, Exactly.


    From that, she was sure.


    He really seems to have known everything.


    Her new liege had immediately produced the answer, as if hed been waiting for her toy out her conjecture.


    Lets wait and see a little more.


    She felt even happier. To be honest, she thought at first that shed been screwed. It kind of felt like shed been forced into a scam contract. Still, the deed was done, so she was going to make the best of it. But now, she almost felt like she had married into the royal frickin family.


    Hes amazing.


    She was only there for a very short time, but she hadnt seen anyone of this level in Blood and Iron Lion. The same applied to the guildmaster, Song Junghye. Song Junghye might be a cream of the crop Ranker in Korea, but she seemed almost infantile next to Kim Hyukjin.


    So? Its weakness?


    I think I need to get a little closer to find out.


    Hyukjin didnt wait any longer. I observed them based on your conjectures and was able to deduce the armadillos weakness. He pped Yoohyuns shoulder. Yoohyun.


    Yes, Hyungnim.


    Well fend off the rhino somehow, so you defeat the armadillo.


    By myself?


    Yeah.


    Yoohyun cracked his neck. Its a bit of a tall order, but whatever you say goes, Hyungnim.


    Hyukjin scanned the surroundings for a moment before saying, Itll roll itself up andunch itself forward like a ball. If itnds a good hit, you could get really hurt, so be careful.


    Roger that.


    Yoohyun didnt bother asking how or where Hyukjin had acquired such intel. That went for everyone in Giantgod. It was simply Kim Hyukjin. That, alone, was answer enough.


    Yoohyun went on to say, If thats its killing move, it should be wide open afterwards, huh?


    Thats right, Hyukjin affirmed, d to be working with people who caught on quickly.


    Seeing as you picked out a close-ranged martial artist like myself, Ive got the feeling a messy fight is unavoidable.


    What do you think will happen if it rolls around a few dozen or a few hundred times?


    I think itll get awfully dizzy, Hyungnim. Yoohyun understood exactly what Hyukjin was hinting at. And if it gets dizzy, itll open right up.


    That hard shell would uncurl, revealing the unprotected belly.


    And I guess you picked me since sharp weapons wont work on it. Ill wrestle it down and make meat patties of its legs, Hyungnim.


    Hyukjin gave a crisp nod.


    Good.


    Everything Yoohyun said received full points. The armadillo was protected by a special setting. Of course, that setting could be squashed by force once yers had a significant level advantage, but not now. Not only did it possess strong resistance to magic and long-ranged attacks, but it easily rebuffed sharp weapons like swords or spears.


    The best thing we can do right now is to crush its bones in a grapple while it''s uncurled.


    And grappling, a broad term for taking down an opponent on the ground, was a technique often used by the closebat specialist So Yoohyun.


    * * *


    * * *


    Sunhwa raised her shield, then whistled. Her target was the Iron Rhinoceros, which honed in on her with a single whistle.


    The Iron Rhinoceros slowly began to approach, each lumbering step beating a loud thud.


    <em>Taunt!</em>


    The steps grew faster, now suffused with urgency. The Iron Armadillo followed, and So Yoohyun, primed and ready to go,unched off towards it.<blockquote>


    [Using the skill Charge.]</blockquote>


    Yoohyuns 2+ meters of muscle crashed into the armadillo, producing a resounding ng, the sound of metal against metal.


    Ow, my head.


    His head rang. The armadillos body was far harder than he expected.


    Sunhwas got the rhino aggroed, so


    He could focus his full attention on taking down the armadillo. As for the armadillo, it seemed to have suffered some shock from Yoohyuns attack.<blockquote>


    [!]</blockquote>


    It exuded hostility towards Yoohyun, an exmation point floating above its head.


    Got it.


    Yoohyun gathered energy at the tips of his toes.


    For now, Ill run.


    Until it used its killing move or whatever, he would run while eyeing his chance to strike.


    Its just as Hyungnim said!


    The enraged armadillo curled its body into a ball and began to give chase, rolling towards him.


    How can it be so damn fast?


    Its speed was incredible. Yoohyun threw himself around, just barely avoiding the armadillos attacks. The armadillo left a deep trough behind it wherever it rolled.


    <em>CRASH! CRACK!</em>


    A boulder was smashed into pieces, and an old tree was snapped clear in half with a bone-chilling crack.


    Hah hah!


    Just as Yoohyun was gasping for breath, the armadillo copsed to the ground.


    Nows my chance!


    Heunched himself on the armadillo, heedless of its somewhat repulsive appearance. Yoohyun wrapped himself around, doing everything in his power to subdue the monster.


    First, its right front leg.


    <em>Crunch!</em>


    He broke its right front leg.


    Left front leg.


    <em>Crunch!</em>


    The left front leg broke as well.


    Pressing the center of the armadillos belly down with his head, Yoohyun spun like a windmill and reversed his position.


    Next, right hind leg!


    <em>Crunch!</em>


    The right hind leg broke.


    <em>Crunch!</em>


    Finally, the left hind leg broke. All the while, the armadillo squealed like a dying boar.


    <em>SQUEAAAAAAL!</em>


    The armadillo, with all of its legs broken, tried to stand up, but could only flounder. It couldnt even curl itself up. Yoohyun wrapped himself around the armadillos neck, holding it in a chokehold and squeezing with everything he had. A human would have immediately gone unconscious, but not the armadillo.


    A choke doesnt work.


    It was different from humans. There was no point in constricting its major artery. As he strained, he heard Hyukjins voice.


    Hug it from behind.


    Yoohyun reflexively obeyed.


    Use your legs to hook its hind legs.


    He hooked his ankles onto the armadillos hind legs, holding it so it couldnt move its legs.


    Firmly grasp its neck and yank backwards with all your strength.


    It was an order to break the spine. When Yoohyun arched backwards like a bow, the armadillo thrashed. But all of its limbs were broken, and Yoohyuns ankles kept it firmly locked in ce.


    <em>Crrk! Crrkkk!</em>


    The armadillos vertebrae began to shatter, inch by inch.


    Its working!


    Every vein was standing out on his face. He bellowed out a rousing shout.


    DETAILS!


    <em>Crrrrrrk!</em>


    The armadillos spine broke.


    MAKETH!<blockquote>


    [Iron Armadillo has been killed.]</blockquote>


    A LUXURY FOOT MAT!


    Yoohyun got up, dusting himself off, leaving a horribly disfigured Iron Armadillo behind him. He looked down to the corpse while wiping off his sweat.


    It seems like super ordinary advice, but


    That super ordinary advice and tiny details made the hunt so very easy.


    This is it.


    His heart began to race.


    This is a sovereign. This is Hyungnim!


    This was why you needed a great sovereign. Yoohyun looked towards his guildmaster with eyes of awe, but Hyukjin was already gone. He had long since joined the Iron Rhinoceros hunt.


    Before long, Giantgod was able to take down the Iron Rhinoceros with theirbined efforts.<blockquote>


    [Iron Rhinoceros has been killed.]</blockquote>


    Yeonseo picked up an item.


    Boss! It dropped an item called Iron Horn!


    As Hyukjin had expected, it was a clear item. A general notice rang out.<blockquote>


    [Iron Rhinoceros Iron Horn has been obtained. 1/3]</blockquote>


    1/3 obtained. That meant there were two more to get.


    Three paths, three Iron Horns.


    The scenario was slowly bing clearer. And with it, the ns in Hyukjins head began to steadily take concrete form.

 Chapter 290

    Chapter 290


    In this winner-takes-all dungeon, there were three inds and three paths, and on those three paths were three Iron Horns total. As a side note, there was another drop, Iron Rhinoceros Remains, but Kang Somyi got that.


    Every time an Iron Horn was acquired, a dungeon-wide notice would be sent to every yer. In short, this was a dungeon where yers could track their opponents getting Iron Horns, and where the System would award only one team the final reward.


    The System will ultimately present a way to steal those Iron Horns.


    Hyukjin could roughly guess what that was. There was probably going to be a GVG (Guild vs. Guild) field. It was also possible that the hitherto umted contribution in clearing this dungeon and factors like the order of Iron Rhinoceros acquisition would grant some bonuses.<blockquote>


    [Iron Rhinoceros Iron Horn has been obtained. 2/3]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin checked with a whisper.


    Was that ck Crow?


    No. Were currently hunting the Iron Armadillo.


    It wasnt ck Crow, which meant it was Blood and Iron Lion. There was one horn left. Less than five minutester, another dungeon-wide notice rang out.<blockquote>


    [Iron Rhinoceros Iron Horn has been obtained. 3/3]


    [3 Iron Rhinoceros Iron Horns have been obtained.]


    [Unlocking Furuima Beach.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin sensed the field expanding through Eye of Perception. Kang Somyi felt it as well. The entire field was growingrger.


    Follow me, Kang Somyi said.


    Giantgod Guild followed her lead. After killing the Iron Rhinoceros, no real other monster had shown up.


    Somyi, do you think a GVG field will be opened?


    What? Somyi stopped walking, looking back to face Hyukjin. I wasnt saying anything because I wasnt sure, but I have my suspicions.


    Go on.


    I get the feeling that the beach that just opened has a special setting. I need to check it from closer up.


    And youve determined that theres a high chance this special setting is a GVG field, right?


    Yes, thats right.


    For a moment, Somyi found herself at a loss for words.


    The heck, is this guy an explorer?


    He wasnt. Kim Hyukjin definitely wasnt an explorer.


    So why? How? Somyi asked internally, unable to wrap her mind around the enigma that was Kim Hyukjin. She shook her head and continued walking through the forest, weaving through the old trees.


    Be careful. This tree bark is highly poisonous.


    Her guidance was excellent. Following her instructions, Giantgod Guild made their way carefully towards Furuima Beach.


    Can someone cut these away?


    Ill do it, Yeonseo volunteered,ing forward. Blocking their path was a tangle of vines so thick you couldnt see through them.


    Yeonseo swung the Demonde, Asura.


    Hiya!


    Her movements were swift. Wherever her sword shed, leaving a blue trace in the air, vines tumbled to the ground, the cut ends extremely clean.


    Somyi was able to see Shin Yeonseos true value.


    Whoa. Shes not just a swordswoman with a pretty smile.


    Somyi knew the other woman had won a ton of fans with her extremely pretty smiling eyes, but it also urred to her that those smiling eyes had somewhat overshadowed Shin Yeonseos remarkable skill with the sword.


    But man, shes really pretty.


    She moved almost as if she were one with the sword. It wasnt shy. Each movement was concise, crisp. She swung, shed, retracted, and repeated. As she watched Yeonseo work, Somyi was once again convinced.


    This guild is the real deal.


    It was the powerhouse among powerhouses, even stronger than Taeguk Shield. She felt as though she had confirmed that with her very own eyes.


    Once the vines were cleared, the ocean came into view.


    The hot, burning sun. Pure white sand. Seagulls flying overhead. An emerald blue sea. Gentle waves breaking on the white beach.


    A general notice rang out.<blockquote>


    [1 Party has reached Furuima Beach.]</blockquote>


    They had merely gone from one field to another, but a dungeon-wide notice was triggered. Hyukjin asked again, Is there a GVG set up?


    No. I dont feel one right now. It seems to simply be an ordinaryno, peaceful-looking beach.


    Somyi extended her senses, scrutinizing the vicinity. She pressed her face into the sand, sniffing it like a dog, and even tasted the sand and seawater.


    There arent any immediate settings in ce right now. But I do think this is a field that <em>can </em>take on additional settings.


    Hyukjin smiled.


    In that case, well get a scenario quest via Intermediate Administrator.


    It seemed to be that kind of dungeon. The progression was very different from the Nanba Terminal Dungeon Hyukjin knew. He had already experienced the future changing many times over, but the dungeon configuration itself changing like this was a first.


    Someone has to have meddled with it.


    That someone could be Jackson, a Guardian, or even the System acting independently. It might have even been influenced by the Mapmaker Cha Jihae.<blockquote>


    [1 Party has reached Furuima Beach.]</blockquote>


    Blood and Iron Lion, headed by Song Junghye, arrived.<blockquote>


    [1 Party has reached Furuima Beach.]</blockquote>


    As soon as all three parties were gathered on Furuima Beach, Senia appeared before all the yers. Her wings moved with the grace of a beautiful swan slowly pping its wings, lifting her feet slightly off the ground with a gentle p.


    Several yers in Blood and Iron Lion, not to mention ck Crow, eximed in admiration. The sight of Senia rising slowly into the sky was enough to inspire unconscious reverence.


    I would like to represent all of the Intermediate Administrators here in conveying the next scenario quest.


    Senias direct involvement told Hyukjin everything he needed to know.


    The first team to get an Iron Horn is given a bonus.


    It was the same for the Intermediate Administrators. Giantgod was the first to obtain an Iron Horn, and Giantgods guildmaster was Kim Hyukjin. Senia was the Intermediate Administrator with an exclusive contract with Hyukjin. That was why she was currently representing all the Intermediate Administrators in informing the yers of the next stage.


    ...of this scenario. To summarize, the yers must obtain the Iron Horns of the other teams through GVG. This scenario wille to an end when one team acquires all three horns and shows them to me, the representative Intermediate Administrator.


    It was as Hyukjin expected.<blockquote>


    [A GVG setting has been added to Furuima Beach.]</blockquote>


    GVG, a battle between guilds. Like in PVP, GVG fields had a resurrection effect. But Furuima Beach wasnt a normal case.


    If a yer dies or is defeated in GVG, they will be forcibly ejected from the Nanba Terminal Dungeon.


    In addition


    yers who are killed will lose a random amount of EXP. In the worst case scenario, it is possible to be reverted to level 1.


    Senias exnation continued.


    Finally, the first team to have obtained an Iron Horn is given the right to decide the GVG order.


    * * *


    * * *


    ording to Senias exnation, the GVG here had a specific format. It wasnt a battle royale with all the teams going at it at once, but one team against another, tournament style.


    Hyukjin sent a whisper.


    Please give it your best effort.


    ...Are we first?


    Mark wanted to run. His assessment was that Blood and Iron Lion and ck Crow were on equal footing. One misstep, and they might get wiped out. They were mercenaries, and none of them wanted to fight with the risk of being reverted back to level 1.


    However, you dont have to win.


    What?


    You dont have to win, so work hard.


    Total party wipe was one way to end the GVG, but you could also surrender. If Mark, the leader of ck Crow, dered surrender, the GVG would end.


    Work hard?


    Yes.


    Mark was sure of it. Kim Hyukjin was up to something again. They didnt have to win. That meant they could put a little more focus on defense, that there was no need for them to overdo it. They could approach this battle more safely.


    Harass them as doggedly as you can while still staying safe. You can do that, yes?


    We can.


    Instead of overextending themselves in offense, they could distract Blood and Iron Lion while focusing on defense.


    Meanwhile, Song Junghye was biting her lip. That little traitor she growled under her breath. She believed it was because of Kang Somyi that Giantgod was able to get an Iron Horn so quickly. She swore to kill the treacherous explorer once they were out of Nanba Terminal Dungeon. Prepare for battle.


    Hyukjin put Giantgodst, using the special bonus to pit ck Crow against Blood and Iron Lion first.


    To her credit, Song Junghye did try using her head.


    Are you interested in making a deal with us?


    What kind of deal?


    Give us your Iron Horn. In exchange, well pay, be it in Coins, cash, anything. We can discuss the detailster.


    Mark shook his head.


    I apologize. We have no intention of making a deal.


    There was no way they could make a double cross with the ck VIP right there watching.


    With that, the battle between ck Crow and Blood and Iron Lion began.


    * * *


    Song Junghye thought something was strange.


    These guys arent they being a bit passive?


    It felt like they werent putting out their full power. On top of that, they were really going out of their way to harass Jackson, an explorer. It also seemed like they mistakenly thought he was a priest. Something was weird, but in the end, Blood and Iron Lion secured the win.


    We dere surrender, said Mark.


    A few of their yers had sustained serious injuries, but no one had died. Mark heard a whisper from his employer.


    Well done.


    Thank you. Wevepleted ourmission and will be going back now.


    Yes.


    Mark and the rest of ck Crow were ejected out of the Nanba Terminal Dungeon.


    The victorious party will have all of their status abnormalities and wounds treated and will be restored to peak condition, stated Senia.


    As she spoke, the dungeons settings took effect. Song Junghye went from breathing hard to smiling.


    Excellent. I didnt expect this.


    Honestly, Hyukjin hadnt expected the opposite team to get fully healed, either. He scratched the back of his head in incredulity.


    Once the US yers who could be said to be in the top 3 were gone, Song Junghyes true colors came out.


    Kim Hyukjin. I want to kill you right this second.


    Yeah, me too.


    But Ill offer you a deal.


    The conditions?


    Ill spare you and Kang Somyi.


    Hyukjin could onlyugh, dumbfounded. Thats all youre offering? Youre still Song Junghye of Sungshin. Is that really all you cane up with?


    Dont tter yourself. Compare your numbers to ours. Did you think this GVG had a participation limit?


    There wasnt.


    We certainly would be on the back foot if we just fought normally.


    So just be good and hand over your Iron Horn. I dont want to sit here wasting time for no reason, either.


    Why? Theres a time limit for getting the fleet, huh?


    Song Junghye flinched.


    So there is one, Hyukjin confirmed. He snickered. Song Junghyes face reddened slightly, but she quickly schooled her features into calm.


    Fine then, rest in peace, she spat, her face already twisting into a victorious smile.


    A smile that froze when Kim Hyukjin pulled out three items with his right hand.

 Chapter 291

    Chapter 291


    Looking for these, by any chance?


    In his hand were three Iron Horns. Song Junghyes eyes widened.


    Huh?


    She already knew Kim Hyukjin was capable of theft, which was why she had taken safety measures.


    What about Lee Sora?


    Her head whipped backwards, her eyes fixing themselves on the woman who was called the Moon Priestess in Blood and Iron. Constantly floating next to Lee Sora was a mote of light the shape of a moon. This light was called Artemis, and it was a unique power that protected Lee Sora. That was why Junghye had entrusted the Iron Horns to her safekeeping, trusting that Artemis would protect it.


    Jackson shook his head back and forth, chuckling. No wonder. I was wondering why Mark was pestering Miss Lee so persistently. The explorer seemed to have figured everything out. So you were the one whomissioned ck Crow, Hyukjin?


    Commissioned? What are you talking about?


    Hyukjin feigned ignorance, but Jackson nodded as if he hadnt heard.


    No wonder. I thought it was weird that American yers would suddenly enter the Nanba Terminal Dungeon, of all ces. He sighed. Anyway, I suppose well be kicked out soon.


    They had lost their Iron Horn. Now, a new path would open up, with only the team with the three horns moving on to the next ind. Even without waging GVG, Blood and Iron Lion were registered as having lost.


    Kim Hyukjin, you bastard!


    If youre mad, just get good.


    ck Crow had fulfilled their rolemensurably. Their job wasnt to duke out a battle of life and death with Blood and Iron Lion, but to distract them with whatever means possible. The two teams were equally matched, and ck Crow had devoted themselves to that one goal. On top of that, Mark, an archer, had doggedly targeted the Moon Priestess.


    Yeonseo giggled. Welp, there they go. Serves them right! She returned Asura to its sheath. Anyhoo, that was you, right, Boss? You got Mark to target Lee Sora.


    Yeah.


    No wonder. I noticed he was bending over backwards to harass her.


    The American team had behaved a bit strangely for one of the US top three. ck Crow hadnt moved like they were seeking victory. That was how it looked to Yeonseo, at least.


    So ck Crow drew the aggro and you pulled a fast one on them with Darongi, huh?


    Thats right.<blockquote>


    [The Milky Way Neutron Star is delighted by your ying.]


    [1,000 Coins have been sent as a sponsorship.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin cheered inwardly. It seemed the Milky Way Neutron Star was very pleased with his ying.


    As I thought, theyre a generous Guardian.


    They had dropped a whopping 1,000 Coin sponsorship in one go. Soon, yers would be entering a time period where Coins were of great importance. Each and every Coin was as precious as gold, so getting a massive lump sum at this point was highly wee.


    Sunhwa said, Oppa. That weird light thing protecting Sora unnie, what was that?


    Kang Somyi intercepted the question. Ahem, allow me to exin.


    She went on to exin that the small moon was Artemis, a power that protected Lee Sora. Upon hearing that, Sunhwa was truly jealous.


    Whoaaa. That kind of thing exists?


    Seriously. Thats luck, I guess. Either that, or shes got disgusting talent.


    When she said that, everyones eyes swiveled in unison towards Hyukjin, who, acutely aware of their gazes, scratched the back of his head.


    Come to think of it, I <em>do </em>have disgusting talent.


    He was definitely a [No Talent] blockhead before regressing, and yet That moment, a spike of painnced through his temple.


    Ngh.


    The painsted only for a split second before fading away, so fleeting he almost thought he imagined it.


    Why is Song Jinchuls faceing to mind?


    Every time he saw Song Jinchul, something was a little off. And he still didnt know what the [A factor in a major variable] meant.


    Yeonseo poked Hyukjins cheek. Boss, whats wrong?


    Its nothing, Hyukjin replied.


    * * *


    * * *


    The loose ends were pretty much all wrapped up. The Guardians were also well-informed on the situation, thanks to the conversation between the yers. Countless Guardians were surely watching their ying with interest.


    With a graceful p of her wings, Senias feet touched the ground.


    We will now move on to the next scenario. I, an Intermediate Administrator, will return to stealth mode, and in one minute, the regr dungeon scenario willmence.


    Hyukjin nodded.


    The regr dungeon scenario, is it?


    That meant everything so far was an irregr dungeon scenario. That had to be the case. The process so far was far too different from the Nanba Terminal Dungeon Hyukjin remembered.


    Sure enough, a notice came in confirming his thoughts.<blockquote>


    [All foreign influences in the Endless Sky Crystal have been removed.]


    [Canceling scenario alteration.]


    [Returning to the regr scenario trajectory.]</blockquote>


    It wasnt visible to the naked eye, but the first two inds disappeared, and with it, the route Giantgod had traveled through to reach the beach.


    This is the first starting point.


    Hyukjin recalled the clear strategy from his past.


    <em>A sea monster called Kraken appears in the Nanba Terminal Dungeon. Its better to move to the Nanba Ind where the Clear Crystal exists while avoiding the Krakens than to hunt the Krakens directly.</em>


    That was pretty much all he knew. This was a foreign dungeon, not one found within Koreas borders, and it wasnt even that important a ce. That was why Hyukjin was dithering betweening here or not.


    And were starting on the beach.


    Eye of Perception could feel it. Somewhere in that vast ocean, a massive creature was moving within the depths.


    Theres not just one of them.


    There were several Krakens. These enormous octopus monsters had long snouts from which they could shoot ink so acidic it could melt down entire boats.


    I can feel monsters in the ocean. Theyre huge, said Somyi. She continued confidently, There are a lot of inds in this ocean. We need to find the Clear Crystal hiding on one of those inds and destroy it.


    Her shoulders were set straight with prideshe felt like she was proving herself as an explorer.


    I think it would be best to avoid the monsters in the ocean. They feel super powerful. If we mess up, we might even drown.


    Everyone listened carefully. Her confidence bolstered by their attentiveness, Somyi quickly went on.


    I think we need to find a boat first.


    Theres no need for that, Somyi.


    What?


    I have a boat.


    Hyukjin looked straight at Kang Somyi. Yellow light, the light he became capable of seeing when he reached level 44, was glowing atop her head. And because it was her, he could discern what that yellow light was about.<blockquote>


    [This is the Explorer of Service.]


    [Capable of a special incantation.]</blockquote>


    That wasnt all.


    Also, were going to hunt the sea monsters.


    What? Why? That has nothing to do with the clear. We dont need to hunt them, so why risk it?


    Hyukjin shrugged and just stared at her. Just three secondster, Somyi began to blink rapidly.


    You cant mean


    What youre thinking is correct.


    Beforeing to the Nanba Terminal Dungeon, Hyukjin had told Somyi this:


    <em>A hidden piece of yours is there.</em>


    To which she replied


    <em>Hidden pieces are love, hidden pieces are life!</em>


    Hyukjin borated. As your liege, I can now see scenario quests and hidden pieces rted to your ss.


    Mm, right. I know.


    Somyi was unable to understand why Hyukjin was saying that. She wondered why he was repeating something she already knew. That was because she was fairly new to working with Hyukjin. But Giantgod Guild knew what Hyukjin was doing.


    This was an exnation given to the Guardians. Like in TV shows that began with a summary of the previous episode, Hyukjin was doing just that. He was giving them a reminder so they could follow the plot.


    The monsters here are giant octopi called Krakens. Their levels are in the early 40s. Theyre definitely dangerous monsters.


    ...


    Somyi stared speechlessly at him. Shed been excitedly giving an exnation of her deductions, but Kim Hyukjin seemed to have already known everything. At this point, she was almost scared of him.


    There are a total of eight Krakens here. When we encounter one, youll get a quest. A quest to hunt all eight Krakens and then the boss monster, the King Kraken.


    ...A quest for me?


    Thats the first ss scenario the Explorer of Service gets.


    Hyukjin thought of Jackson, who had disappeared while smiling.


    He intentionally sent Somyi to me, and in the end, he made it so she came here with me.


    It was Hyukjin who had made use of a variable to pivot, but it seemed that Jackson had foreseen even that.


    Its probably not a coincidence that the first ss scenario the Explorer of Service gets is in the Nanba Terminal Dungeon.


    Jacksons smiling face was etched in his mind.


    To Jackson, both Song Junghye getting the new fleet and me awakening the Explorer of Service are good choices.


    Jackson just had to flip the coin and pick one. As Hyukjin had suspected, it was highly likely Jackson was a transcendent being of some kind. He definitely wasnt a yer.


    Someone has imposed foreign influences on the Endless Sky Crystal to alter the contents of this dungeon, thus allowing the acquisition of a fleet that didnt originally exist here.


    Everyone craned their ears to listen. Even the aplished members of Giantgod Guild hadnt heard of this before, but no one doubted his words.


    But I think that someone also had another scenario other than the fleet in mind. A ss scenario for the Explorer of Service is hidden here.


    There was no way that was a coincidence.


    That someone has made arrangements in this dungeon.


    Somyi looked puzzled. And who is that someone?


    Im still finding that out myself.


    The Great Explorer Jackson, someone who might be of the same caliber as the Demon King, had made arrangements for them. The Demon King held no punches and gave dangerous arrangements, whereas Jackson set upparatively safer ones.


    But theres no doubt someone is making arrangements for us behind the scenes. Hyukjin smiled. And we cant call ourselves Giantgod Guild if we fail to scoop up the free goodies we are offered. Even if our target is a boss monster, the King Kraken.


    The King Krakens level was typically in the mid tote 40s. On top of that, as an ocean-dwelling monster, it was a far more difficult foe thannd monsters. Because of that, the hunt was sure to have countless Guardians on the edge of their seats.<blockquote>


    [The Nameless Observer is observing.]


    [The White Hunter is happy.]


    [The Conductor of Sound is focusing.]


    [The Night of Shooting Stars has high hopes for your ying.]</blockquote>


    And there was one other GuardianKang Somyis Guardian, one he hadnt known before his regression, finally made an appearance.<blockquote>


    [The Ruler of the New Continent is observing the sovereign.]</blockquote>


    There was an important point to notice. They werent observing the y, but the sovereign.


    Well be clearing the hidden piece and fully awakening you.


    Wh-Why?


    Because youre an explorer in Giantgod Guild from today onwards, of course?


    I-I am? Somyi stammered, ncing at the others in bafflement. Shouldnt there be a vote where everyone agrees, or a majority vote or something?


    It was a very sensible question, but Kang Somyi was still sorely misinformed about the guild she was joining.

 Chapter 292

    Chapter 292


    Shouldnt there be a vote where everyone agrees, or a majority vote or something?


    It was a very sensible question. They lived in a democratic society, where the majority opinion was to be respected. For Kang Somyi, securing everyones consent was all too natural. It wasnt like she hadnt thought of joining the guild, but she hadnt even discussed things properly with the other guild members yet. Furthermore, this wasnt just about her joining the guild, but about tackling a perilous hidden piece.


    It could be dangerous. In the worst case, they might even lose their lives.


    Isnt it normal for someone to oppose?


    But the first person to respond, Sunhwa, shot her hand into the air with a giggle and a big grin.


    I agree, 100%!


    She was super cute. From what Somyi had seen, Sunhwa was a lovable girl.


    W-Well, shes a kind and pure child, so its natural for her to agree.


    They hadnt known each other for long, but Somyi believed Sunhwa was as kind and innocent as her appearance suggested. Sunhwas response wasnt unusual considering her youth and personality, Somyi thought.


    The future Fist King, the big and muscr So Yoohyun, was also quick to respond.


    Hyungnim, I also give my full agreement, 200%!


    It was her first time hearing such an overly enthusiastic response, but somehow, it suited So Yoohyun. His biceps were quivering.


    Um Somyi interjected tentatively. Do you know me?


    I dont.


    But youre still in full agreement?


    Cause Hyungnim gave his permission? replied Yoohyun, cocking his head as if puzzled by her line of questioning.


    Is that really the only reason?


    Reasons arent important to a footmat.


    It was also her first time hearing someone refer to himself as a footmat. So Yoohyun broke out in a hearty Uhahahaha! But to be honest, Somyi couldnt understand what was so funny.


    Shin Yeonseo shrugged and said unconcernedly, If Boss says so, its a yes from me.


    Even more dumbfounded, Somyi asked, Hold on, seriously? Me joining the guild aside, the hidden piece is really dangerous, you know?


    Choi Sung-gu shook his head.


    Fuck Dont say that sort of thing. This boss of ours goes running straight into danger like a madman Hes a danger addict.


    Then do you oppose it, Sung-gu?


    Its no use opposing if no one listens, Sung-gu grumbled. Haah, this is just my lot in life.


    He breathed a deep sigh. But despite his grousing, Sung-gu had decided to join the challenge the moment Hyukjin said he was going to clear the hidden piece. In fact, if he was being honest, he was even a little excited about it.


    Gah! Just what am I thinking?! He pinched his cheeks hard. You crazy Bum-gu! Im not interested in a lousy hidden piece, not one bit!


    <em>My goal is to just live a long, long rich life. Thats all! </em>He reminded himself this again and again.


    Just this onest time. Ill take on danger just onest time.


    Bum-gu. Yes, he was Bum-gu, a coward who feared and hated danger. This was thest time he was joining these crazies on another brush with death, he swore to himself.


    Kang Somyi looked from one Giantgod member to another, her expression bitter.


    Youre all going to go into danger for me, someone youve only met today?


    She couldnt understand. All Giantgod had to do was clear this ce and leave. Yeonseo patted her shoulder.


    Boss hasnt made a single wrong decision so far. Were just trusting him and charging straight ahead. Right, Sunhwa?


    Yupyup. I believe everything Oppa says.


    Thats right, Hyungnim. Your footmat is as loyal as ever today.


    The near-unconditional faith of his guildmates embarrassed Hyukjin a bit, but he didnt show it.


    Somyi spoke quickly, still unbelieving. Im grateful, yes, but theres no doubt itll be dangerous. And its not like this dungeon is going to disappear. I think we cane backter, when our levels are higher


    Hyukjin cut her off. If we do that, the Explorer of Service hidden piece will disappear.


    Lets go then!


    Just to make sure, Somyi fixed onest stare on Jo Sunghyun. Her assessment of him was that he was a cold person. She sort of felt like he, the most rational and calm-seeming person in the guild, would be the one person to present justified reasoning and express his unwillingness to join the hidden piece chase.


    Jo Sunghyun said slowly, Hyung. What do you want me to do?


    * * *


    * * *


    Kang Somyi mumbled to herself.


    Wow. Is this really happening?


    At 23 years old, she learned for the first time that Koreas strongest guild was a group that barged straight ahead like stubborn mules. And even though it was super obstinate and rockheaded, she didnt actually dislike it. She liked it.


    Standing on the beach, Somyi shouted into the empty air, THIS WAS SERIOUSLY SO WORTH IT!


    Then, after whirling around, she stared at her new guildmates.


    That means Im a part of the guild now, right?


    This time, it was Giantgods turn to stare oddly at her. It felt like Kang Somyi from a few moments ago was very different from Kang Somyi now. The feeling she gave off was distinctly different.


    I seriously love this guilds vibe. Uhuhuhu. Sheughed like someone with a screw loose. Well then, Guildmaster. How will we kill the Krakens? They look tough to kill.


    A Kraken happened to surface at that moment, appearing before their eyes. They could only see its head, but even that looked to be the size of a respectable boat. Not long afterwards, one of its many appendages appeared above the water.


    Sung-gu shuddered. Fuck. Cant I just stay here? What kind of leg is the size of a house?


    Whining again, Hyung?


    This isnt whining, you brat. Look at the suckers. You can tell just from those suckers that its frickin monstrous.


    All monsters are monstrous.


    Bro, Ive got a seafood allergy.


    Sunghyun snorted. As the two bickered, Hyukjin said, Somyi. What do you know about incantations?


    Incantations? What are those?


    She was being serious. She didnt know a thing about incantations. But Hyukjin could see it with Eye of Perception.<blockquote>


    [This is the Explorer of Service.]


    [Capable of a special incantation.]</blockquote>


    She was the Explorer of Service capable of a special incantation.


    She can do it, but it looks like she has an ability she hasnt recognized yet.


    And Hyukjin was able to see exactly what the special incantation was.


    Seek life to die, seek death to live.


    What? Thats a super famous line, isnt it? The words spoken by Admiral Yi Sun-sin.


    If they fought to die, they would definitely live, and if they fought to live with cowardice, they would definitely die. Those were the words left by the Lord of Loyal Valor Yi Sun-sin. Hyukjin had heard this incantation before.


    Schultz showed it to me.


    The German archer/sovereign, Schultz. The yer who had sacrificed himself in a brilliant disy of leadership in the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate in the past without Kim Hyukjin. There was no mistaking that Schultz had uttered this incantation, and because of that, Hyukjin knew this was a real incantation.


    Do you feel anything after hearing about it?


    Hm, not really I dont think I can really feel anything.


    Hyukjin nodded. Yeonseo came close and whispered something in his ear.


    The only person who can figure out everything from a single hint is you, Boss. Dont get the wrong idea.


    ...


    He wondered if it was really something she needed to whisper to him, but he decided to ignore her.


    Ill hunt the Krakens.


    They werent going to do it themselves. This was the ocean. He was going to use the Immortal Fleet.<blockquote>


    [Immortal Fleet]


    Battles by summoning an undying fleet. Can only be summoned on the ocean. The summon duration and fleets fighting prowess will be determined by the summoners Willpower.


    *Number of summonable vessels: 12


    *Upon fulfilling a special incantation, the Willpower consumption markedly decreases.</blockquote>


    He summoned the Immortal Fleet.<blockquote>


    [Using the special ability Immortal Fleet.]</blockquote>


    A twelve ship fleet appeared on the water. In a naval battle, this astonishing special ability could shine even more than Kim Hyukjin himself.


    Kang Somyis jaw dropped at the twelve Joseon era warships that had suddenly appeared in the sea.


    Wow this sort of thing is possible? I was wondering what you meant when you kept saying fleet this, fleet that. So this is what that was.


    As an explorer, she had a rough sense of the fleets power.


    We can do this!


    The only problem was, maintaining such a huge fleet would surely require a lot of Kim Hyukjins mana. Would his mana reallyst through the process of hunting all the Krakens and clearing the hidden piece? That was the real question.


    That moment, she was struck with the illusion of someone speaking in her head.


    <em>Help him.</em>


    <em>Lend him your aid.</em>


    <em>If you try, you will be able to help him.</em>


    It was the strangest feeling, almost like she had a different soul in her head. She remembered that Ham Sohyun, the very famous Precognitive Dreamer, said this was how it felt when sheposed precognitive notes.


    Ohhh!


    Somyis eyes began to turn gold. Behind her shimmered an energy that couldnt be seen with the eyes. Hyukjins Eye of Perception detected it, and he recognized it as the same energy he had experienced in the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate, a ce far removed from the Nanba Terminal Dungeon.


    Thats the same energy Schultz had.


    From Somyis lips spilled the same incantation Schultz had uttered. It didnt seem to be a Will Incantation. Rather, it was being uttered regardless of her will due to the fulfillment of certain conditions.


    Seek life to die, seek death to live.


    A towering shadow formed behind her, quickly coalescing into an armored giant. The giant made of mana only had the upper half of its body.


    It was the same as back then, exactly the same. Even Hyukjin was puzzled as to how this could be.


    Those who seek death shall live, those who seek life shall die.


    With that incantation, Hyukjin heard a new notice.<blockquote>


    [A special incantation has been created.]


    [Willpower consumption drastically decreases.]</blockquote>


    <em>Thump! Thump! Thump! Thump!</em>


    Drumbeats began to echo.


    The twelve ships were mentally connected to Hyukjin.


    Begin the hunt.


    * * *


    The ships were mighty indeed. They fired their guns at the Krakens and nimbly dodged all of the Krakens attacks. There wasnt much for the other members of Giantgod to do.


    Yeonseo scratched her earlobe. We just have to protect Boss, right?


    Hyukjin was pouring all of his focus on the naval battle, and to do so, he was sitting with his eyes closed,pletely defenseless. Hyukjin had total trust in his guildmates, and his guildmates lived up to his trust.


    The result was simple.<blockquote>


    [All Krakens have been eliminated.]


    [The hidden scenario Kraken Hunt has beenpleted.]</blockquote>


    Exactly as Hyukjin had seen with Eye of Perception, after hunting all the Krakens, they were informed of the hidden scenariospletion, as well as the next step.<blockquote>


    [Due to thepletion of the hidden scenario, the boss monster will appear.]</blockquote>


    The ocean began to surge, the waves growing higher. The ships of Hyukjins fleet rocked so violently it seemed they would capsize at any moment.


    Hyukjin knew what monster wasing.


    King Kraken.


    A monster in the mid tote level 40s.


    What level will it be?


    Even at the lowest possible level, level 45, this monster could not be hunted by normal means. Only a regressor could kill it without losses.


    If we mess up, we could die.


    But Hyukjin was calmer than ever. His mind was as ice cold. This was the same feeling he had experienced time and time again since the Tutorial.


    Its dangerous. Thats why its enjoyable.


    Some might call him a masochist, but that was really how he felt.


    Its worth a shot.


    And if they could awaken the Explorer of Service with this, he was certain that this gamble would be a boon of immeasurable magnitude for Giantgod Guild.


    Sunhwa pointed.


    Holy cow, look, Oppa. Theres a whirlpool over there.


    Far in the distance, a whirlpool had begun to swirl in a calm part of the ocean. At the same time, yet another notice rang out.<blockquote>


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas proposes a bet.]</blockquote>


    The sovereign-focused Guardian who liked gambling, the Herdsman of Las Vegas, hade forward with a bet.

 Chapter 293

    Chapter 293


    The Italian info merchant, Pietro, was very busy these days.


    That was natural, considering all the new culture popping up day after day, plus the constant influx of dungeon and gate information. As a dealer of information, of course he was busy. His info guild, the ck Butterfly, had branches all over the world, all operating unobtrusively under the radar despite their far reach.


    Of their many branches, the one Pietro considered most important was the Korean branch. That was because Kim Hyukjin was there.


    Kim Hyukjin coincidentally went to the same ce as Song Junghe?


    Pietro had a rough understanding of the rtionship between the twohe had been there when Hyukjin had obtained the Immortal Fleet that, had things gone differently, may have very well be Song Junghyes.


    Not long afterwards, Pietro got an update.


    Song Junghye has returned to Korea?


    It just so happened that a part of the Michelle Division returned to the US at around the same time, and they wereing back from Japan. Pietro put the puzzle pieces together.


    Theyre definitely connected.


    Pietro was one of the few people who knew what Michelle thought of Kim Hyukjin.


    The ywright here was Kim Hyukjin, which meant he was also the person who mobilized the Michelle Division.


    Should I try digging up the conversation between Kim Hyukjin and Michelle?


    No, its fine.


    There was no need to wake a sleeping wolf. The person in question was too much of a behemoth. Unbeknownst to the world, the true giant of Korea was Kim Hyukjin.


    I can get answers from Michelle directly.


    He decided to keep things at that. He would stop at procuring the list of yers Hyukjinmissionedthey might be rising stars in the future.


    That aside, you said Schultz wanted to see me?


    The German archer/sovereign had contacted him for the first time since the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate.


    Yes. He insists on meeting in person.


    Put him at priority level 2 and arrange a meeting.


    He wasnt priority level 1. Schultz was an amazing yer, but he didnt have remarkable information value.


    He said its rted to Kim Hyukjin.


    Ask him if he has time today.


    Six hourster, Schultz and Pietro sat down together.


    Its been a while.


    Yes, it has. Schultz smiled. When I was just asking for a meeting, it felt like a lot of middlemen were getting in the way. But as soon as I mentioned Kim Hyukjin, I was ushered right in.


    I didnt know that. Those foolish middlemen must be ignorant of your renown.


    Schultzughed hollowly. He wasnt really a fan of honeyed ttery. Both of them were well aware that it was lip service anyway. He went straight to the point.


    Do you know a person named Itachi?


    Hes a famous Japanese astrologist.


    As I thought, you know him.


    At the end of the day, Schultz was a German Ranker. He might not have the highest information value, but a Ranker was a Ranker. Since they were already in a meeting together, Pietro had to show this Ranker the might of the ck Butterfly. For an info guild, info was essentially power and trust.


    Recently, Itachi met the Precognitive Dreamer Ham Sohyun. He has alsoe in contact with Kim Hyukjin.


    When was that?


    Around January 2019. When the Red Devils appeared in Korea.


    I met Itachi before that.


    Pietros eyes narrowed. He had heard that Itachi didnt like going overseas, so this information gave him pause.


    And in truth, before Kim Hyukjin regressed, Itachi was known to have never gone overseas, not even once. He was reclusive by nature. But not only had he gone to Korea, he had even flown across the world to Germany.


    What does that have to do with you wanting to see me?


    I wanted to ask if you knew anything about the [Immortal Fleet].


    Pietro simply stared silently at Schultz, his face impassive. Inwardly, he was relieved that he had caught his poker face from slipping. How would he not know? He had been there when the Immortal Fleet was acquired.


    Not yet, though I <em>have </em>gotten a few hints about it.


    Even if theyre just hints, Id appreciate it if you would tell me what you know.


    Why?


    Pietro tensed a little. This definitely had to do with Kim Hyukjin.


    Schultz began to speak.


    * * *


    * * *<blockquote>


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas proposes a bet.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin mulled in thought for a moment.


    Hell propose a bet that we can just barely handle.


    Like always, the bets proposed by the Herdsman of Las Vegas were difficult. However, as long as you could pull them off and win, a hefty reward would follow.


    That was why Michelle was able to flourish into an American Ranker.


    To put it frankly, Michelles innate talent tes werent that amazing. 58 talent tes was on the low side for a top Ranker. The fact she was able to achieve such fantastic sess as a yer regardless was because she had continually secured big sponsorships from the Herdsman of Las Vegas.


    If Michelle could do it


    Hyukjin was confident.


    I can, too.


    What Michelle could do, he could do as well. However, he wasnt alone right now. The members of his guild were here as well. Overreaching might end up getting his guild members hurt, or even worse, killed.


    The Herdsman of Las Vegas.


    He carefully considered and dissected the Guardians personality. If Hyukjin refused the bet, the Guardian would be slightly disappointed, but he wouldnt turn hostile with a single refusal.


    I can get him even more excited.


    Hyukjin knew a method to do that, a method that would simultaneously ensure the safety of his guildmates. A method that would make the Herdsman of Las Vegas even happier.


    I ept the bet proposed by the Herdsman of Las Vegas.


    He intentionally didnt check the conditions of the bet. It was a blind gamble, a y the Herdsman of Las Vegas really enjoyed.


    But Hyukjin didnt stop there.


    In addition


    Senias wings fluttered.


    yer Kim Hyukjin cant be


    Her premonition came true.


    May I make a counter proposal?


    yer Kim Hyukjin. Youre stepping out of line, Senia warned, as if trying to dissuade him. But both Senia and Hyukjin knew this was all just acting. Senia was pretending to dissuade him, intending to push the Herdsman of Las Vegas a little more.


    A message quickly arrived.<blockquote>


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas feels great interest in your counter proposal.]</blockquote>


    Hook, line, and sinker.


    Yes, he wouldnt be the Herdsman of Las Vegas otherwise.


    Some Guardians viewed counter proposals from yers with great displeasure. Lowly humans dared to make a counter proposal to a Guardian? There were definitely Guardians like that, but the Herdsman of Las Vegas was different. He liked these kinds of ys.<blockquote>


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas asks what your counter proposal is.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin presented his idea.


    Sovereign soloing. Dont you want to see it?


    At those words, Yeonseo nearly jumped up in rm.


    What did he say? she thought in horror, looking towards the sea.


    She had seen the Krakens earlier. Without the Immortal Fleet, hunting them would have been near-impossible. But this time, the opponent was a King Kraken.


    The power billowing from the monster she could sense lurking within the distant whirlpool was far from ordinary. But Hyukjin wanted to hunt it alone? It was ridiculous.


    She also knew that her guildmaster didnt want to put them in danger. However, she didnt say it aloud.


    That being said. Yeonseo clenched her fists. Hes also sure he can hunt the King Kraken alone.


    In other words, she was currently nothing more than an assistant to Kim Hyukjin. The person himself had never thought of her in that way, but that was how she felt. The feeling gave rise to an urge within her.


    Looks like Im getting some motivation again today.


    Every time she started getting a bitcent, Hyukjin would give her another push. Whenever she looked at Hyukjin, she was filled with an urge to work hard today, tomorrow, and every day after that.


    Hyukjin heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas epts your counter proposal.]</blockquote>


    The Guardian shed the green light. The risk would be greater, but so would the return. It was literally high risk, high return.


    A different message came in.<blockquote>


    [The Barrier of Blue Light asks that you abstain from excessive confidence.]


    [The Barrier of Blue Light gifts a Memory Capsule.]</blockquote>


    This worrywart, the Guardian who was so keen on protecting Hyukjin, gifted him a Memory Capsule. He smiled. He honestly hadnt expected the Barrier of Blue Light to step forward here, but it was a wee change. The scales tipped a little more in his favor.


    To put it another way, it must mean the King Kraken is a foe dangerous enough to make the Barrier of Blue Light anxious.


    If he didnt know the strat, there was no way he would have challenged it.


    Ill be hunting the King Kraken on my own, Hyukjin said.


    The Giantgod guild members were silent. After a pause, Sunghyun spoke up first.


    I wouldnt do that if I were you. There were traces of anger on his face. Why do you have to carry the burden alone?


    Im not carrying the burden alone.


    He saw Sunghyuns summary.<blockquote>


    Summary: Younger Sibling Worrying About his Hyung and Hating Himself</blockquote>


    Hyukjin nced around and saw that everyone was harboring simr thoughts. Their feelings were clear to him.


    Its not that you guys are unnecessary, or that Im doing this to protect you. Its just that I want to secure a bigger reward by making a counter proposal.


    I know that. But you cant deny that our safety isnt implied in that counter proposal. He bit his lips. Im not a child who needs to be protected. Im a full-fledged member of Giantgod, too.


    Its not that Im looking down on you.


    Sunghyun knew that. He knew Hyukjin hadnt done this to insult them. Things had simply ended up like this, and he knew why.


    Ill get stronger.


    Hyukjin didnt respond. He could feel that everyone was thinking the same thing.


    Ill get stronger, whatever it takes, and make it so you cant even think of making a counter proposal like this.


    Alright, fine. A little motivation doesnt hurt.


    The brand-new member of Giantgod, Kang Somyi, was somewhat slow to understand the situation.


    Youre really going to solo it? Is that even possible?


    It is. First, I need to lure him to shallow waters.


    How are you going to do that?


    Luring the boss all the way to the shore was impossible, but bringing it to slightly shallower waters was doable.


    Somyi, you collected the Iron Rhinoceros Remains earlier, didnt you?


    Yes, thats right. Its in my Inventory.


    Ill reel it in with that. If we leave the body on the beach, I predict itlle this way. Monsters usually go crazy at the smell of blood.


    The first step was restricting its movements a little by luring it into slightly less deep waters.


    Can you really hunt the King Kraken with just that?


    No.


    Hyukjin walked to the shore, then used sh Step towards one of the summoned Immortal Fleet ships. As he did so, he felt the King Kraken surging nearer, and with incredible speed. Hyukjin used sh Step again, moving to another ship.


    <em>Crack!</em>


    The ship he had just left was crushed into smithereens by a massive leg of the King Kraken like a giant anaconda constricting its prey. The ship fell apart like a house of cards, with utter ease.


    Hyukjin checked the mana consumption. It was within manageable bounds. That moment, he felt a twinge of pain in his eyes, apanied by a wave of murderous intent.


    Its going for me.


    Even without intentionally trying to aggro it, the King Kraken locked its sights on him, clearly recognizing the target moving inside the ship as its enemy. Hyukjin sensed the behemoths legs churning in the water.


    <em>Thump! Thump! Thump! Thump!</em>


    The fleet unleashed coordinated fire, the guns sting away amidst a backdrop of drum beats.


    The Barrier of Blue Light sent another warning.<blockquote>


    [The Barrier of Blue Light advises abandoning the scenario.]</blockquote>


    The King Kraken could not be killed by the fleets gunfire, a fact Hyukjin was well aware of.


    I wasnt nning on killing it like that anyway.


    He drew out the Memory Capsule the Barrier of Blue Light had given him and immediately used it. This was an item that could recreate an item that had already been used. Depending on the users timing and luck, it could reproduce the exact same item. If you were unlucky, it could also produce nothing.<blockquote>


    [Using the Memory Capsule.]


    [Freedom has been created by the Memory Capsule.]</blockquote>


    He was going to attempt the clear even without this, but this would make things a little easier. And so, in his own way, a regressors way, Hyukjin began his battle with the King Kraken.

 Chapter 294

    Chapter 294


    Freedom, the whale breath-infused pill that previously allowed him to breathe freely in the Sea of Clouds, was created. Hyukjin used it immediately.<blockquote>


    [Use Freedom?]</blockquote>


    He jumped into the ocean, sinking into the depths. Thanks to Freedom, he didnt have to go up for air. Even after entering the water, he could visualize what was happening above the surface. The acidic ink spewed by the King Krakenpletely disintegrated an entire ship before seeping into the water, causing his skin to sting all over. Hyukjin used sh Step again, approaching the King Kraken.


    This things the ruler of the sea.


    At least during the beginner-intermediate period, this boss was the strongest monster that would show up in seas withte level 40 monsters. This sea was no exceptionhere, the King Kraken was the ultimate predator.


    Since the King Kraken is a monster that runs away if theres anything stronger than it


    The King Kraken spewing ink and destroying ships with such abandon was a sure sign there was nothing stronger than it in the near vicinity.


    ...it wont be on guard against anything in the ocean.


    Hyukjin had intentionally jumped towards the ships before plunging into the water. The boss wouldnt pay any attention to the tiny creature swimming around in the depths.


    <em>Crunch!</em>


    Another ship was crushed in one of the King Krakens long legs.


    Good thing I raised my Willpower.


    His Willpower stat was impossibly high for a level 44 yer. Perhaps because of that, he didnt suffer much mental shock even when his ships were being smashed and desummoned.


    Dammit, thisll take a while to recover from.


    Still, his bet with the Herdsman of Las Vegas was riding on this, as was the Explorer of Services ss scenario. His ships might be getting destroyed, but this was definitely a worthwhile investment.


    There it is.


    Krakens hadrge anuses that made perfect gateways into their bodies. Hyukjin continued swimming. Because of how enormous the King Kraken was, its movements generated unbelievably strong ripples. Whenever he thought he was getting closer, a big current would roll out and push him away.


    I have to be careful.


    Even if its movements werent targeted, each of its legs was a fatal blunt weapon simply by virtue of their size and strength. A direct hit would kill him.


    Hyukjin used sh Step again.


    Im going in.


    It was a little disgusting to go in through the anus, but it couldnt be helped. The most efficient way to hunt a King Kraken was to enter its body and attack it from the inside.


    He swam inside, recalling the notes written by the Great Explorer Jackson.


    <em>Once youve prated the King Krakens anus and gotten inside, youre halfway to sess.</em>


    Now that he thought about it, Jackson was the one who revealed the King Kraken guide to the world as well.


    <em>The inside of the King Krakens body is like outer space. You wont feel gravity there. yers will need to swim while afloat.</em>


    It was exactly like the notes said. There was no gravityit was like being in space. Hyukjin slowly moved his arms and legs to propel himself forward.


    <em>Somewhere in its body runs a major artery.</em>


    The King Krakens internal structure was different from humans or regr creatures. Depending on the settings, it was possible it had a major artery, but not a heart, or that the artery was cut off.


    I need to find the major artery.


    He couldnt smell any blood. Like Jackson said, it was almost like he was floating in the vastness of outer space. Hyukjin had to search for a long time. There werent any real dangers. It just required time. As he swam, he let his mind run, thinking back to when he went to the Endless Sky under the Demon Kings scheming. There were a few simrities between his journey in the Endless Sky and his situation now.


    The ocean outside was like the Sea of Clouds.


    He could breathe freely thanks to Freedom. The sensation was simr to back then.


    And when I went up to the Endless Sky, I did so inside a whalekins body.


    This time, he was inside a King Krakens body.


    And this energy I feel


    After thinking for a long time, Hyukjin was able to pinpoint what this feeling was.


    Endless Sky mana.


    It reminded him of the Endless Sky. The mana of the Endless Sky was a violent, fierce force that ruthlessly devoured everything other than the whalekin. But as faint as it was, he could feel that same mana here.


    I can feel Endless Sky mana from inside its body?


    Hyukjin had a sh of understanding.


    Inside its body is an Endless Sky Crystal!


    He had already heard of its existence in this dungeon.<blockquote>


    <em>[All foreign influences in the Endless Sky Crystal have been removed.]</em>


    <em>[Canceling scenario alteration.]</em>


    <em>[Returning to the regr scenario trajectory.]</em></blockquote>


    It seemed the Endless Sky Crystal mentioned in the notice was hidden inside this boss monsters body. Last time, Hyukjin was given one by Jackson. This time, he was certain that he could get one by his own strength.


    I need to get it.


    Hunting the King Kraken boss was important, but more than anything, he needed to get the Endless Sky Crystal somewhere in its body. Endless Sky Crystals were filled with unprecedented power. It was a treasure regr mana crystals couldnt evene close to.


    Where is it?


    Hyukjin floated forward, cranking up Eye of Perception and Observers Eye to the max. The Endless Sky mana around him was slowly getting more dense. It couldntpare to the real Endless Sky, but it was definitely Endless Sky mana.


    Over there.


    He swam like he was drawn to the mana.


    I can feel it.


    Endless Sky mana, the violent energy flowing from the Endless Sky Crystal.


    I cant be harmed by Endless Sky mana.


    He had acquired the Endless Sky PhysiqueEndless Sky mana was no longer an enemy. Hyukjin swam for quite a while longer, breathing in deeply.


    * * *


    * * *


    A voice echoed in his head.


    (Youre doing well.)


    It was Isabel. Hyukjin was very d to hear her.


    (Focus. Its true you have the Endless Sky Physique, but its not perfect. Youre still too weak and fragile.)


    Hyukjin snapped back to full attention at those words.


    I need to focus on my 2nd heart.


    The most important aspect when handling Endless Sky mana was the 2nd heart he had made with Isabels help, the heart he had named Isabel. With this heart, he would absorb the Endless Sky mana and convert it into his own strength.


    (Thats it. Its good to get some practice with tiny amounts like this.)


    A whileter, a blue jewel came into Hyukjins view. Its name was a question mark.


    Endless Sky Crystal!


    It looked exactly the same as the one he had gotten from Jackson. The Endless Sky Crystal back then was marked with a question mark as well.


    (Youre weak, so Ill help you.)


    Last time, Jackson gave him the Great Baptists Blessing, which allowed him to identify the item. This time, Isabel helped him. Golden dust fell onto the blue crystal. Isabel had used a special ability, allowing him to activate the item description.<blockquote>


    [Endless Sky Crystal]


    A crystal imbued with the mana of the Endless Sky. People with particr constitutions can manipte the mana within using a special method.


    Grade: Low</blockquote>


    He obtained an Endless Sky Crystal, an item that hadnt existed in any notes, ypedia, or guides in the past.


    I got it.


    If it was the same as the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon, the Nanba Terminal Dungeon would break. But even so, he didnt once consider giving up the crystal in front of him. Instead, he resolved to prevent as much damage from that break as possible.


    (Husband, Im proud of you.)


    He was in tune with her feelings. Her praise was sincere. It was like she was saying youve grown a lot.


    (Now that youve got an Endless Sky Crystal, I should be able to stay awake a little longer, too.)


    Hyukjin asked, What about manifesting?


    (Not only would that be out of the question with a single Endless Sky Crystal, but I think that crystal would turn straight to dust. The most I can do is maintain consciousness for a little longer while taking care not to exceed the limits of the Endless Sky Crystal.)


    Hyukjin was a little sad. To be honest, he wanted to see Isabel again.


    (Husband. You thought just now that you wanted to see me manifest, didnt you?)


    Isabel snorted scornfully, but herugh exposed her good mood.


    (Sentiments like that, they dont make me happy at all. But itsmendable, I suppose. Indeed, thats how a husband should be.)


    Because they were mentally connected, he could feel her intense happiness. Hyukjin briefly thought that she was cute, even though she was so strong he couldnt even dare to look upon her.


    (Husband, dont go that way. Go left, that way.)


    Isabel was only able to exert her abilities a little more with the slight reinforcement of her consciousness, but even that made her an incredible help.


    (You were looking for this, right? The major artery.)


    Hyukjin saw a creek flowing with red blood. It was quite long and really did seem like a small stream. It didnt smell at all like blood.


    Yeah, thats right.


    This was the major artery, the key to this strategy.


    <em>The King Krakens major artery looks like a red creek or stream. The blood in this stream must stay clean and pure and cannot be tainted with any impurities. This major artery is the King Krakens heart.</em>


    Hyukjin walked up to the major artery. Isabel warned, (Be careful. If you fall in, youll die.)


    A wave of heat hit him. The blood seemed quite hot. Hyukjin took out an Iron Horn. He had decided to use it as soon as he had seen the King Kraken.


    <em>After many tests by the author, hot, molten steel was found to be the most effective.</em>


    Hot, molten steel was said to have a better, more instantaneous effect than des or poison items. Hyukjin began drawing forth the pure Athenae energy within him.


    Isabel seemed rather pleased.


    (Not bad, Husband.)


    Having learned how to use sword ki, hed already experienced wrapping his energy over a foreign object. Moreover, he had used Athenaes me multiple times and had practiced drawing forth me ki many times while making the ckfire Bow. The act of smelting the Iron Horn in itself wasnt very hard.


    The Iron Horn began to drip from his palm.


    Its hot for me, too.


    The horn he had smelted with Athenaes me inflicted severe injury to Hyukjins palm before flowing into the major artery.


    The first Iron Horn, the second, and then the third all dripped into the major artery. A small tremor arose in the stream, quickly intensifying until the world around Hyukjin was violently rocking. The red blood flowing in the major artery started wildly sttering out.


    (Watch out!)


    A small, bluish barrier formed before Hyukjins eyes, created by Isabel.


    She can do this sort of thing, too?


    Isabel fumbled for an excuse.


    (That was a thin sword barrier. You can make sword barriers like this by swinging a sword ultra fast. Really.)


    There was no way she was being truthful.


    (It-its all because Husband is too weak. Thats why I swung out.)


    Even if there really was a technique called sword barrier, it wasnt this. This was all magic. A barrier, aka the defensive magic called Shield.


    Thanks. So it was an amazing sword technique, like I thought.


    (Th-This is nothing, ho, hoho, hoho!)


    The red blood flowing in the major artery boiled over like moltenva, sttering all over this outer space world. Wherever the blood touched, a hole was burned in its ce.


    Seawater began shooting in from the holes, and the pull of gravity was reestablished. It felt as though he had returned to the world from which he hade.


    He could feel it.


    Its dying.


    About thirty minutester<blockquote>


    [The boss monster King Kraken has been killed.]


    [EXP cannot be acquired.]


    [Items will not be dropped.]</blockquote>


    In the end, the King Kraken perished. Hyukjin swam up to the surface. The entirety of the Immortal Fleet had been destroyed, so he couldnt go by ship. He started swimming back to the beach, sensing his guild members waiting for him in the distance with Eye of Perception.


    As he swam, Hyukjin thought, Normally at a time like this, the Guardians shouldve been rushing to send a bunch of messages.


    But none hade. That meant the Guardians had determined this scenario wasnt over yet. And Hyukjin knew what the end of this scenario was.


    Simply hunting the boss monster wasnt all.


    Its time for the conclusion.


    He would bring this scenario to a close.

 Chapter 295

    Chapter 295


    Hunting the King Kraken was pretty great content on its own. But right now, that feat was merely a part of the process.


    My deal with the Herdsman of Las Vegas needs to end for this scenario to end.


    The counter proposal Hyukjin had made was to solo the boss. <em>Sovereign soloing, dont you want to see it? </em>he had asked, and the Herdsman of Las Vegas had epted his counter proposal without a second thought. Hyukjin had justpleted his end of the deal perfectly.


    Is it my win?


    A Pause took effect, and Senia showed herself. In this ck and white world, it was just the two of them.


    yer Hyukjin has aplished an absolutely peerless solo kill.


    I was lucky.


    The Herdsman of Las Vegas is very pleased as well.


    If that was all, the Guardian would have dumped a generous sponsorship by now.


    But hes probably curious as to how I achieved such a feat.


    Yes. Your ying is far too different from that of regr yers. Did you know the interior structure of the King Krakens body beforehand?


    This was basically a continuation of the regression-rted questioning fromst time. Hyukjin shook his head.


    As if. How would I know that?


    Then how did you know?


    He gave an answer tailored to the Herdsman of Las Vegas personality.


    Of course I didnt know.


    Senia returned his serve adroitly.


    Was it a gamble?


    Exactly. Not knowing the cards in the opponents hand, not knowing how things will turn out, thats what makes a gamble fun.


    For now, he stuck adamantly to his excuse that he didnt know. The Herdsman of Las Vegas would ept and be amused by this alone, but knowing there were countless other Guardians watching, Hyukjin wanted to stack the cards with even greater certainty in his favor.


    I traveled to the Endless Sky in a whalekins belly. You remember that, right?


    I do.


    Back then, it urred to me that it would be easier to take down a creature far bigger than me from inside its stomach. The skin of the whalekin is incredibly sturdy, but their insides looked rtively fragile.


    Ah.


    Senia seemed to be recalling that time. Lately, working with Shobidobi had enlightened her on the ways of editing.


    This would be a good ce to put a rted video link.


    They could put a link to the Endless Sky scenario video here, providing easy ess to the Guardians who hadnt seen it yet.


    Then how did it ur to you to look for the King Krakens anus?


    Like I said, it was a gamble. Hyukjin grinned. There was no way for me to hunt it from the outside anyway. That only left going into its body and hunting it from the inside, but it was spewing too strong an acid from its snout. The only ce I could think of was its anus.


    But there are many monsters that dont have an anus, arent there?


    Thats why it was a gamble.


    Hyukjin heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas praises your intellect.]</blockquote>


    This was how you gambled. It wasnt possible to control every variable. Granted, Hyukjin could minimize them with his knowledge of the future, but the Herdsman of Las Vegas didnt know that. In the Guardians eyes, Hyukjin was a great gambler. And the Herdsman of Las Vegas didnt skimp on sponsoring great gamblers.<blockquote>


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas seriously contemtes a reward.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin silently waited for the notice.


    A bet, plus a counter proposal.


    With the counter proposal, he was bound to get an even greater reward. What would this generous Guardian give?<blockquote>


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas gifts a Special Ability Enhancement Crystal.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin doubted his ears.


    A Special Ability Enhancement Crystal?


    They had just entered the intermediate period. Special Ability Enhancement Crystals showed up in the master period and were a necessary material in enhancing the special abilities of yers.


    He checked it immediately. The description was brief.<blockquote>


    [Special Ability Enhancement Crystal]


    Enhances a yers special ability.</blockquote>


    It was the same Special Ability Enhancement Crystal he knew. Currently, he had a total of four special abilities.<blockquote>


    Special abilities:


    [Absorption] [Mettle] [Eye for an Eye, Tooth for a Tooth] [Immortal Fleet]</blockquote>


    However, Hyukjins eyes captured a faint yellow lighting from the crystal. The Pause was still in effect. He spoke aloud, wanting to prolong the Pause a little longer.


    Theres something hidden in this Special Ability Enhancement Crystal.


    The yellow light was very faint, almost imperceptible. That meant there was something more to it. If his Eye of Perception proficiency was higher, he would have been able to decipher it, but deciphering it fully was impossible.


    Im going to figure out what it is. Right now.


    Strike when the iron is hot. Life was all about timing, and so was producing content. Everything had a right time, a most effective moment. Hyukjin believed that moment was now.


    He took out an item.<blockquote>


    [Stardust]


    A Guardian exclusive given by the Milky Way Neutron Star to those they have expectations for. Stardust can be used on robbed or stolen items, enabling one to see all hidden attributes of the item.


    Remaining uses: 1</blockquote>


    If the Milky Way Neutron Star allows it, I would like to use this Stardust on the Special Ability Enhancement Crystal.


    This was the climax of the scenario. Many Guardians were watching. All the Guardians who were hungry for good content would pressure the Milky Way Neutron Star. Other Guardians were the best means for manipting a Guardian.


    Itll work on the Milky Way Neutron Star.


    The problem was whether the Milky Way Neutron Star was in Senias channel or not.


    Are they not here?


    He didnt get any messages from the Milky Way Neutron Star, but he did get one from another Guardian.


    [The Fairy of the Bellows Fire feels great interest in your proposal.]


    It was the debut of the Fairy of the Bellows Fire. A bellows was the device used to feed a fire with air, and bellows fire referred to the produced me.


    This was the Guardian all production ss yers dreamed of. Typically, they frequented the Italy, Germany, or UK servers. As one would expect, the very famous craftsman of Italy, Pedro, would sign a contract with the Fairy of the Bellows Fire at level 50.


    A Guardian with a focus on production and enhancement was currently interested. If this went well, Hyukjin would be able to alter Stardusts usage conditions. The Pause still going on was proof of that. Many Guardians were watching with great interest right now.


    Like most production-focused Guardians, the Fairy of the Bellows Fire was known to be at odds with the Milky Way Neutron Star. It was different from the rtionship between the White Hunter and the Conductor of Sound. If those two were undeniable rivals, then the Milky Way Neutron Star and the Fairy of the Bellows Fire were more akin to enemies. Production yers disliked thief yers, and it was no secret that was because their contracted Guardian disliked thief ss Guardians.


    Thats why shell want to get more actively involved.


    Things proceeded as Hyukjin expected.


    [The Fairy of the Bellows Fire engages in the alteration of Stardusts settings.]


    No matter how fervently you wanted content or how much you wanted to see a certain scene, there was always a fundamental rule. If you wanted to change a pre-existing setting, you needed to pay the appropriate price.


    Hyukjin was well aware of that.<blockquote>


    [The Fairy of the Bellows Fire asks for the Fire Giants Ne.]</blockquote>


    The wheels were already set in motion. If he wanted to change the setting of a gift given by a Guardian, it was only right that he should relinquish an item of at least this grade. And Hyukjin believed that if the Guardian doing the alteration was the Fairy of the Bellows Fire, this was the right decision.


    He had obtained this ne along with Fire Giants Breath, and since he hadnt had any use for it, it had been sitting around in his Inventory. He decided to use it now.<blockquote>


    [The Fairy of the Bellows Fire is modifying the settings of Stardust.]


    [The settings of Stardust have been altered.]</blockquote><blockquote>


    [Stardust]


    A Guardian exclusive given by the Milky Way Neutron Star to those they have expectations for. The settings have been partially altered due to the involvement of the Fairy of the Bellows Fire. Stardust can be used on robbed or stolen items, as well as enhancement or material items, enabling one to see all hidden attributes of the item.


    Remaining uses: 1</blockquote>


    It could now be used on enhancement or material items as well. Hyukjin didnt hesitate. He immediately used hisst Stardust on the Special Ability Enhancement Crystal.


    * * *


    * * *


    After watching gold dust fall onto the crystal, Hyukjin examined the Special Ability Enhancement Crystal. Just like with the Daedongyeojido, the Special Ability Enhancement Crystal was hiding a secret unknown to mankind.<blockquote>


    [Special Ability Enhancement Crystal]


    Enhances a yers special ability.<ul><li>


    The special ability enhancement result is influenced by the yers enhancement talent.</li><li>


    The Special Ability Enhancement Crystal can actively assess whether items and various factors required for special ability enhancement are present. Performing special ability enhancement with the requisite material items and enhancement factors will yield an excellent result.</li><li>


    This Special Ability Enhancement Crystal is mostpatible with summoning special abilities.</li></ul></blockquote>


    At least as far as Hyukjin knew, the yers in the expert period didnt pay much attention to particrs before using Special Ability Enhancement Crystals. But as it turned out, special ability enhancement was just like regr enhancement in that a mix of material items and various factors could bring about a better result.


    And it can actively assess those.


    It was also interesting that each crystal had a type of special ability it was mostpatible with. Hyukjins mind shed to his summoning special ability, Immortal Fleet.


    Talking to Senia to provide information to the Guardians, Hyukjin said, This enhancement crystal is mostpatible with Immortal Fleet.


    Yes, Ive confirmed that as well.


    In that case, did he need to enhance the Immortal Fleet here? That would be the most effective move, and likely the move a lot of Guardians were itching to see.


    The problem is that the Immortal Fleet has been totally wrecked, and I dont know when itll be restored.


    It would recover at some point, but he didnt know when that would be. Restoring it might even require a certain item or condition.


    The Immortal Fleet is in an unusable state, said Senia.


    Unfortunately, yes.


    In that case, it will be difficult to proceed with enhancement.


    Senia felt regret. They were on a roll, and it was important that they maintained this trajectory. Only going directly into enhancement would put a satisfying end to this scenario. If they ended halfway like this, it would feel very anticlimactic. Like a story with an introduction, development, climax, and no end.


    But just as she was thinking that, Kim Hyukjin smiled.


    Itll be very difficult, yes but its not hopeless.


    This scenario wasnt over yet.

 Chapter 296

    Chapter 296


    ...But its not hopeless.


    With the help of the Fairy of the Bellows Fire, Hyukjin now knew the secret hidden within the Special Ability Enhancement Crystal. Of his abilities, this crystal was mostpatible with Immortal Fleet. In addition, he was even shown the conditions for restoring the Immortal Fleet, as well as an exnation regarding the enhancement requirements.<blockquote>


    [A yer capable of the Seek Life to Die, Seek Death to Live Incantation is a requirement for enhancement.]


    [A yer capable of uttering Will Incantations is an unconditional requirement.]


    [A yer capable of uttering Will Incantations can restore the Immortal Fleet.]</blockquote>


    There were other conditions required for restoration. One of them was the power of the Endless Sky Crystal. When that, and other factors were present, the Immortal Fleet could be repaired and even enhanced.


    The die is already cast anyway.


    He couldnt back out now. This story needed its ending. If he came all the way to the Nanba Terminal Dungeon and wasnt able to secure a satisfying conclusion, all the trouble he went through would be wasted. Who would like a story without an ending?


    Hyukjin said, I need to restore the Immortal Fleet and wlessly carry out its enhancement, too.


    Right now?


    Theres a requirement I need to fulfill.


    What kind of requirement?


    To do this perfectly, I need the help of another yer.


    He didnt forget to throw hints to the Guardians, inviting them to imagine and infer things for themselves.


    I need a person who can do the Seek Life to Die, Seek Death to Live Will Incantation.


    Senia didnt seem to remember. Do you know someone like that?


    I do.


    He knew who it wasthe German sovereign/archer, Schultz. He was the yer who had first shown him this incantation in the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate.


    For now, the dungeon is cleared, right?


    Yes.


    When the Pause was dispelled, there would be a dungeon clear announcement.


    Hyukjin nodded. Well go right into enhancement.


    * * *


    Hyukjin and the members of Giantgod Guild left the Nanba Terminal Dungeon. Despite clearing it, they didnt receive much in the way of rewards. Only the Explorer of Service, Kang Somyi, was given a reward and a hint about her next ss scenario.


    The dungeon is going to copse, stated Hyukjin.


    Kang Somyi added, The dungeon base has disappeared.


    She was sincerely amazed. When Kim Hyukjin jumped into the ocean, she thought he was an absolute madman. She spent the rather long wait afterwards alternating between worrying and marveling at his recklessness. But to her relief and amazement, some timeter, the King Kraken died while screaming.


    What exactly happened inside the King Krakens body?


    She would have to ask him seriouslyter when they had time. This man, Kim Hyukjin, became more and more fascinating by the second.


    Ive got to ask him.


    She was dying to know how he had hunted it. Somyi really didnt expect him to solo a beast like the King Kraken. If she could learn how he did it, it would be very helpful when she published her monster encyclopedia, the goal she was working towards.


    I dont know what that is, either. But even though the dungeon has copsed and its been cleared, its still going to break.


    It was the same with the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon. After losing its Endless Sky Crystal, the dungeon would break.


    Somyi, do you have any sense of what the dungeon break will look like? Hyukjin asked.


    To be honest, not really. But I dont think itll be like what happened with the Sangam World Cup Stadium Dungeon.


    Really?


    Believing her judgment, Hyukjin made a request to his guildmates.


    Its possible were somewhat responsible for this dungeons copse.


    ...


    So when the dungeon break happens, if its not looking too dicey, please help out.


    Yeonseo smiled brightly. Will there be a lot of strong enemies?


    I dont know.


    A request from Boss, how unexpected. I thought you could take care of everything alone. Yeonseo shrugged, and after a slightly fakeugh, she pulled out the Demon de Asura.


    Dont worry. Ill stop that break in its tracks.


    Im not asking you to stop itpletely. Dont overdo it if its too dangerous.


    Jeez, alright, alright. Ill handle it with caution.


    Sunghyun spoke up next. It seems like you have something else to do. Am I right?


    Yeah. Im going to leave this ce to you guys and go meet another yer.


    Can I ask whats going on?


    Hyukjin saw through Sunghyun. The kid was worrying about him. He really didnt show it, but Sunghyun was very concerned about him.


    Hyukjin used this opportunity to inform the Guardians.


    Im gonna go meet someone real quick. I need to proceed with Immortal Fleet enhancement content.


    * * *


    * * *


    Hyukjin returned to Korea via the Tutorial Building Warp Gate, then went straight to Song Kiyeols office. It just so happened that Song Junghye was there as well.


    Kim Hyukjin, you! Where do you think youre barging into!


    Hyukjinpletely and utterly ignored her, not paying a single nce at her as she screamed with reddened eyes. She wasnt even a threat.


    Y-You! Youre ignoring me? <em>Me? </em>Song Junghye?


    Song Kiyeol sighed.


    Junghye. Go outside.


    Oppa. I had an appointment with you first, and Im here as the guildmaster of Blood and Iron Lion. What do you think youre doing?


    I get it, so go outside.


    Is this how you do business?!


    Junghye shot to her feet. Smiling, Hyukjin threw a jab.


    You shouldve ambushed me when I got out of the Nanba Terminal Dungeon.


    ...


    If you did that, you might have seeded for once in that assassination thing youre so fond of.


    Junghye red at Hyukjin for a long time. To be honest, the idea had urred to her. Giantgod Guild would be very tired after clearing the Nanba Terminal Dungeon, and it wasnt like it hadnt urred to her to attack them at that time. It was just that there were too many onlookers to take action outside the dungeon.


    Ill kill you one day. I swear.


    Hyukjin saw straight through Song Junghyes vitriolic thoughts. Her emotions were all too obvious. He intentionally continued to provoke her.


    If you want me dead,e at me any time. Youre too weak to do it anyway.


    Heughed scornfully. Song Junghye left the room, mming the door behind her. Kiyeol, who had been watching in silence, pursed his lips.


    ...It looks like you were intentionally provoking Junghye.


    Like Ive been saying, if it werent for you, I might have already killed her.


    It was true that Hyukjin hadnt killed her out of consideration for Song Kiyeol, but to be honest, it was more out of an interest for his own gain. Song Junghye was deeply linked to Jackson.


    Jackson will maneuver her.


    And through him, Song Junghye would obtain many things. In the process, Jackson would test both Junghye and Hyukjin again and again, weighing which of the two would make a better candidate.


    For the time being, hell be focusing his efforts on Song Junghye.


    Hyukjin just had to grab hold of all the things that were supposed to go to her. He would be able to get amazing abilities like the Immortal Fleet without dealing directly with Jackson, who couldnt be 100% trusted. That was the best stance Hyukjin could take right now.


    Meanwhile, Song Kiyeol remained silent. He hadnt been able to respond to Hyukjins matter-of-fact statement.


    ...


    It was a bit strange to thank Hyukjin for not killing his sister. After some time, he replied, Ill punish her properly again.


    Yes, well. Thats your business. Hyukjin wasnt here because of Song Junghye. I want to see the German yer Schultz. Please arrange that for me.


    As a German Ranker, Schultz was being closely watched by many people in Germany. As such, Hyukjin wanted to get in contact with Schultz under the official front of Taeguk Shield.


    Schultz? Song Kiyeols eyes widened.


    Why are you so surprised?


    Schultz has actually contacted us already.


    He has?


    To be exact, we were contacted by an Italian info merchant.


    Ah, you mean Pietro.


    Yes.


    Hyukjin heard the whole story. Apparently, Schultz wanted to meet Kim Hyukjin for some reason as well.


    Schultz was supposed to have died in the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate.


    He had nobly sacrificed himself to save the other yers. Through his sacrifice, more yers were able to survive, and the survivors of the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate considered Schultz a hero.


    Hes looking for me, and right now? So coincidentally?


    The timing was one thing, but the reason Schultz gave for wanting to meet him was interesting as well.


    Hes looking for information about the Immortal Fleet


    Hyukjin didnt know what Schultz and Pietro had discussed. After leaving Kiyeols office, he called Pietro right away.


    Why didnt you contact me directly?


    I did, but I wasnt able to reach you. My intel tells me youve been in a certain Japanese dungeon.


    I see.


    It was an eptable exnation, as well as another hint for Hyukjin.


    That means he was in such a hurry to get in contact with me that he couldnt wait and went to Song Kiyeol.


    How much did you say about the Immortal Fleet?


    Not much. But Schultz told me he thinks the Immortal Fleet is in Korea.


    How did he find that out?


    He said Itachi from Japan told him.


    Hyukjins meeting with Schultz came quickly. For Hyukjin, it was a very good sequence of eventsthings were progressing nicely without losing momentum. Schultz came to Giantgod Guilds office in person.


    They hadnt seen each other in a while. After a simple greeting, they went straight to business.


    Itachi said the Eternal Star of the Sea is shining on Korea.


    So he thinks the Eternal Star of the Sea is the Immortal Fleet, and the fact that it''s shining on Korea means Im rted to the Immortal Fleet?


    That was a stretch.


    He said there are very, very few people he can make such concrete and detailed prophecies about.


    Ah.


    Thats why Itachi figured it was you, Guildmaster Kim.


    Fine. Say youre looking for the Immortal Fleet, and that it has something to do with me. What is it that you want then, Schultz?


    Schultz looked directly into Hyukjins eyes.


    May I ask a question first?


    Go ahead.


    Do you have the Immortal Fleet?


    ...


    Hyukjin thought for a moment. Should he be honest, or conceal the truth?


    Theres no reason not to tell him.


    Not only would the whole worlde to know of this ability during the Bali Naval Battle, but Schultzs cooperation was crucial for enhancing the Immortal Fleet.


    And theres no need to draw this out.


    Hyukjin nodded.


    The Immortal Fleet is one of my special abilities.


    As I thought! Schultz jumped to his feet, before quickly sitting back down with a look of embarrassment. I apologize. I got too excited.


    Its alright. But why is it such a good thing for you that I have the Immortal Fleet? To the point that you would jump out of your seat?


    Schultz fell silent, chewing on his next words. All this time, he had been deliberating on how he should put this, but he couldnte up with anything else. He decided to be blunt and direct about it. There really was no roundabout way to put it.


    He would just be honest.


    Ill be direct with you.


    Yes, I prefer that as well.


    Schultz got up, went down on his knees, and said something that was, from Hyukjins point of view,pletely ridiculous.


    Please give me the Immortal Fleet.

 Chapter 297

    Chapter 297


    A sovereign/archer memorialized as a hero by the survivors of the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate, a yer who didnt hesitate to sacrifice himself for others. And just like Kang Somyi, a yer who had a yellow light above his head. That was all the info Hyukjin had on Schultz.


    I dont know what to think.


    Hyukjin hadnt thought Schultz woulde out so boldly with such an absurd statement.


    Did you just ask me to give you the Immortal Fleet? Did my ears hear wrong?


    No, as shameless as it is, you heard right.


    Im d you know its shameless.


    Thankfully, Schultz seemed to know how ridiculous this request was. If he hadnt, things would have been extremely troublesome.


    For now, get up. Id like to hear a bit more on why you want the Immortal Fleet.


    Schultz wasnt supposed to still be alive, and the Immortal Fleet was supposed to go to Song Junghye.


    Schultz, the Immortal Fleet, and Song Junghye They didnt seem very rted, but they were all connected to the variable Kim Hyukjin. So instead of immediately rejecting him, Hyukjin probed Schultzs intent.


    I willplete the Immortal Fleet.


    Complete the Immortal Fleet?


    Ah. Schultz quickly backtracked. Its not that Im saying the Immortal Fleet in your possession is iplete. Please dont misunderstand.


    Thats what it sounds like to me.


    Schultz apologized. That wasnt my intention. But I understand it cane off that way to you. Im sorry. Im really sorry.


    Hyukjin looked at the still kneeling German yer in amazement.


    Even though hes kneeling, he doesnt look servile.


    How should he put it? He was proud? It was incredible that Schultz could look proud while asking for someone elses special ability, but Hyukjin liked his attitude.


    Hes not trying to be underhanded or anything, at least.


    Hyukjin could tell from the few sentences they had exchanged. Schultz had been fully honest with him the whole time and hadnt tried to lie. His actions, words, and expressions, everything was true.


    And its true the Immortal Fleet isntplete yet.


    He was also only level 44. There was a limit to how amazing a level 44 yers special ability could be. Plus, he was in the middle of enhancing it right now. If it could be enhanced, that also meant it hadnt been enhanced yet. Saying it was iplete wasnt all that wrong.


    Let me apologize again. I really didnt intend on insulting you.


    You seem sincere, so Ill ept the apology. Hyukjin shrugged. And its true that its iplete.


    ...


    At Schultzs silence, Hyukjin continued, I know what conditions are necessary to enhance the Immortal Fleet.


    Enhance it?


    Yes. For this enhancement, your ability is an absolute must. Hyukjin narrowed his eyes. If I can borrow your power, my Immortal Fleet will be one level stronger.


    ...


    So why do I need to give it to you?


    Well Schultz squeezed his eyes shut. Thats because the Immortal Fleet you wish to enhance and the Immortal Fleet I want toplete are very different.


    So youre saying my Immortal Fleet is weak, and the one youre making is strong?


    ...I apologize.


    Hyukjin could onlyugh, dumbfounded.


    Is he socially inept, or just way too honest?


    Honest, truthful. Such qualities werent always good and desired. Sometimes, it was necessary to lie, and there were situations that called for euphemisms or roundabout ways of putting things. Especially when asking for something, like Schultz was doing now.


    Hes really unable to lie.


    He was stupidly honest to the point of foolishness. He said things knowing he would have to apologize, and then really apologized for saying them.


    I like him.


    Schultz was apletely different type of person from Hyukjin.


    If it were me, I would have first done my research on what it is that the other person wants, what would make him agree to this proposal.


    ...Yourepletely right.


    Just saying that you canplete the Immortal Fleet isnt all that appealing a proposal to me.


    Schultz nodded, fully acknowledging Hyukjins words.


    Youre right. So he made a proposal. I will make sure the whole world knows of your name.


    ...


    Hyukjin was taken aback once again.


    Eh?


    It seemed conversing with this man would take some getting used to.


    Does he really think thats a good thing?


    The scary part was that Schultz was dead serious. Throughout this entire conversation, Schultz hadnt spoken a single lie. Everything was sincere.


    I willplete the Immortal Fleet without fail


    ...


    And let everyone know that the true ruler of the sea is you, the Korean Kim Hyukjin.


    ...


    Naval dominance is the most important factor for winning a war.


    It was true that naval dominance was important. Why else would the worlds strongest countries, like the US and China, invest so much into making aircraft carriers andmanding the seas?


    But naval dominance isnt necessary if theres no war, is it?


    The world is changing. Mankind will require naval dominance. The skies are bing dangerous because of flying monsters, and the sea routes are being blocked by sea monsters. idents are urring all the time.


    * * *


    * * *


    In just ten years, the sea routes of mankind would be greatly obstructed, even more so than the airways. That was because underwater monsters were harder to deal with than flying ones.


    Hold on. Hyukjin thought for a moment. The sea routes didnt open up as much as youd expect from yer levels going up.


    In particr, the Pacific would be the most dangerous ocean in the world.


    If the Immortal Fleet had been properly awakened and had protected Koreas waters Things might have been a little different.


    If Song Junghye had been a proper yer, she would have been able to awaken the Immortal Fleets full potential. That might have allowed her to gain dominance over the Pacific Ocean via the East Sea, opening up safe sea routes by repelling the countless monsters living in the Pacific Ocean.


    Im not all that interested in opening the sea routes.


    He heard a notice at that.<blockquote>


    [The Lady of the Scales is disappointed by your words.]</blockquote>


    It was the sort of message you would expect from a Guardian who was good and just to a fault. Sea routes were basically directly linked tomerce. Even with Warp Portals and open airways, there was no denying that the sea was a massive route for goods.


    Hyukjin hid a smile. He had said those words on purpose to disappoint her, and sure enough, she had taken the bait. There had to be a little frustration for a satisfying catharsis.


    Moreover, I have zero desire to be a hero.


    ...


    It was Schultzs turn to stare at Hyukjin with eyes of iprehension. He didnt say anything, but Hyukjins Eye of Perception read his mind.


    Its only natural for those who have the strength to be heroes?


    That was apparently what Schultz thought. As long as he didnt force that opinion on others, it was a pretty admirable way of thinking. Conviction was necessary to be a hero, after all.


    Schultz asked, You dont want to be a hero?


    Not at all. Hyukjin smiled. How strong do you think I am, Schultz?


    The German yer was one of the few people who had seen Hyukjins true strength. He responded honestly, I think of you as one dimension, no, two dimensions above me. Both as an archer, and as a sovereign. Im far below you in every single aspect.


    And he was being honest. 100%, unabashed andpletely without pretense, honest.


    Its embarrassing to say, but Im confident Im one of the top ten yers in Germany.


    This, too, was sincere.


    So I know that if you had been born in Germany, you would have been our number one yer.


    Why do you think someone you judge so highly would be unknown to the world?


    Thats


    Schultzs train of thought ground to a halt. That was something he hadnt ever considered. He just thought Taeguk Shield was incredibly strong, since they were so well-regarded.


    And it wasnt wrong for him to have thought so. The public was told that Taeguk Shield had eliminated all those overwhelmingly powerful Red Devils. Additionally, Song Kiyeol was credited with stopping the Fire Giants. The prominent hero Song Kiyeol was already well-established in Korea.


    Its true that Song Kiyeol is extremely strong, thought Schultz.


    Going by official feats alone, Song Kiyeol was probably one of the strongest Rankers in the world. At least ording to what Schultz knew.


    But Kim Hyukjin is strong, too.


    A yer like Kim Hyukjin might not be as strong as Song Kiyeol, but he still should have been known to the world. But he was strangely low-key, to the point that hardly anyone knew about him.


    This meeting was also officially set up by Taeguk Shield.


    That was all the public was told. Cold sweat suddenly ran down his back.


    But howe I dont see hide or hair of Song Kiyeol?


    He was finally getting true information after a bunch of distorted information. Schultzs intel might have been wrong, but he was confident in his ability to judge the situation.


    With that one shift in critical information, the fog over his eyes lifted.


    The true owner of Taeguk Shield is Kim Hyukjin!


    His head reeled with realization.


    The real heavyweight is Kim Hyukjin!


    Kim Hyukjin was hiding behind the front that was Taeguk Shield. But why? Why did he do such a thing?


    Him not taking the limelight probably means he ces more value on practical benefits than honor or fame.


    He was theplete opposite of Schultz, and the kind of person Schultz had the hardest time dealing with.


    What can I offer him?


    Doing the right thing or a noble cause wasnt good enough. It had to be something real, something practical.


    I was a fool and didnt know anything, said Schultz atst.


    ...


    He got up.


    I have no great wealth or treasures to offer you.


    It sounds like youre giving up on this trade.


    I havent given up.


    Hyukjin liked how straightforward Schultz was. They might be twopletely different kinds of people, but maybe that was why he was more drawn to the guy.


    Please give me a little time. I dont know what you want, but I will definitely find something equal to the Immortal Fleet in worth.


    What I want is the Immortal Fleets enhancement.


    Ill help you with that.


    Schultz didnt stop to weigh benefits and losses. His approach was to do everything he could, no matter what it was. Even so, he still didnt seem at all servile.


    Hyukjin asked, Why do you want to protect the sea routes so badly?


    He already knew the answer.


    Because that is what I should do.


    ...


    Because its something I <em>can </em>do. If I do that, more people will be able to enjoy delicious meals at home. With their families.


    It was a very Schultz-esque answer. Hyukjin scanned Schultz again with Eye of Perception and was unsurprised to find that he was once again being sincere.


    The two of them met eyes. Hyukjin looked directly at this man, this great hero in the making who shouldnt have existed in this world.


    He had already finished his calctions. To be honest, he hadnt seen this developmenting. Before meeting Schultz, the only thought in his head was enhancing the Immortal Fleet.


    Lets go for something a little different.


    In a direction even he, the producer, hadnt predicted.


    And well get the Guardians hyped while were at it.


    He began to draw out a path that would lead to profits even greater than he had expected.


    Ill give you the Immortal Fleet.

 Chapter 298

    Chapter 298


    Ill give you the Immortal Fleet.


    ...What?


    It was actually Schultz who was shocked. He had asked for the Immortal Fleet, but hadnt thought Hyukjin would really give it to him.


    Are you serious?


    Yes.


    Howe youre willing to give it to me?


    Hyukjin closed his eyes. Because I want to get you.


    Me?


    Yes. I want you, Schultz.


    ...


    Schultz was caught off guard by this unexpected situation, but he quickly regained his bearings and nodded.


    I wont disappoint you, he said, his voice full of resolve. You really wont regret it?


    I saw the kind of person you are at the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate.


    ...


    Back then, you were willing to sacrifice yourself in order to save other yers.


    Everyone there would have done the same thing.


    Not me.


    If Hyukjin hadnt been there that day, Schultz would have died there.


    And today, youre here asking me for the Immortal Fleet.


    ...


    I can see now that youre doing so for a noble cause. Hyukjin smiled. Actually, Ive been testing your sincerity. I wanted to know if you truly have the will to carry out the public good.


    That was why he had been dragging out this conversation with Schultz. A message quickly followed on the heels of his words.<blockquote>


    [The Lady of the Scales offers you a sincere apology.]</blockquote>


    As one would expect from awful good Guardian, the Lady of the Scales was keen to apologize for any misunderstandings. She was truly easy prey.<blockquote>


    [The Lady of the Scales gives you a Testing Scales as an apology.]


    [Testing Scales has arrived in your Gift Box.]</blockquote>


    I wanted to check if you would truly use the Immortal Fleet to do great deeds, and whether you had the resolve and strength of will to do so.


    ...


    Schultz was silent. His lips kept opening and closing as if he was going to say something, but was swallowing the words.


    If I give the Immortal Fleet to Schultz


    Schultz would give Hyukjin his unconditional help and cooperation. That was Schultzs natural-born character and personality. A man so foolishly honest that he would never forget a favor, that was how Hyukjin assessed Schultz.


    Schultz will be my subordinate.


    This was a yer who hadnt existed in the past. He was, in other words, a variable. Doing this would allow Hyukjin to control this variable.


    Ill give the Immortal Fleet


    And in exchange


    Ill get Schultz, who has the Immortal Fleet.


    Hyukjin didnt think it was a bad trade. However, it wouldnt seem that way to the Guardians. He knew Schultz was an upright person who would go so far as to offer his life to repay a favor, but the Guardians didnt. Even the Guardians would be surprised by this turn of events. Many of them were probably either baffled or frustrated. There might even be a few who were raging about him being a pushover who would give away his ability willy-nilly.


    Its my job to keep directing for the Guardians who think that.


    He waited a little longer before asking, Is there something you want to say to me?


    * * *


    * * *


    Schultz was ovee with admiration.


    This person is a true hero.


    No, he wasnt just a hero. He was more akin to an antihero born of turbulent times rather than a hero with traditionally noble values. But he was still definitely a hero, through and through.


    To tell you the truth


    In the end, Schultz decided to be honest.


    I was testing you, Hyukjin.


    ...


    Hyukjin cheered inwardly. As I thought.


    No matter how stupidly honest or single-minded he might be, there was no way a yer of Schultzs levnd a sovereign, at thatwoulde to Hyukjin and ask for the Immortal Fleet so obstinately.


    He had an ulterior motive.


    It felt like they were ying chess. Moving this piece would expose another, and he had to predict that while exchanging another set of moves.


    Feigning ignorance, Hyukjin asked, You were testing me?


    I wanted to know what kind of person you are. That was why I so shamelessly asked for the Immortal Fleet.


    Without even offering anypensation in return.


    Why do you want to know what kind of person I am?


    The yellow light glowing above Schultzs head was now bing more distinct to Hyukjins eyes. Schultz had opened his heart to him more.


    Because I had to decide who I will serve.


    <em>Serve.</em> It wasnt the first time Hyukjin had heard that word. The yellow light above Schultzs head became brighter.


    Does that mean youre going to serve me?


    Yes. This is System regted, and I cannot refuse your orders without appropriate justification or evidence.


    What happens if you refuse?


    The Immortal Fleet will be destroyed, and the aftermath of that shock Schultz paused, then continued after a beat. ...will kill me.


    ...


    It was an enormous penalty.


    You want to serve me even with such a huge penalty?


    Yes. Thats what I want.


    Why?


    Because you believed me even without System assistance. I think I can entrust someone like that with my life.


    Hyukjin hadnt been going for something so extreme, and Schultzs resolve threw him into a bout of internal conflict. Holding someones life in your hands wasnt necessarily a good thing. It was a heavy burden to carry.


    What happens when you decide to serve me? Will your ss advance?


    Yes, thats right. How did you know?


    We have an Explorer of Service in our guild. Shes bound by the System to serve me.


    Schultz nodded. Ill be advancing as well. The ss Ill be advancing to is [Sea King of Service].


    There was a short period of silence. Hyukjin opened his eyes, having made his decision. He was already past the point of no returnit was toote to turn back now.


    I ept your offer.


    He was going to make Schultz his subordinate even without any System restrictions, but now, there was a System absolute in the mix. That was actually far more advantageous for Hyukjin.


    Like I saw with Somyi, sses with [Service] in them are strongest when theyre with their Recipient of Service.


    That led him to this conclusion:


    Ill give the Immortal Fleet to you after enhancing it.


    The conversation hade full circle.


    Schultz. I need your incantation.


    Incantation?


    Schultz didnt seem to know the term.


    The words you spoke in the Dewinged Angel Statue Gate, I need you to repeat them.


    * * *


    Schultz selected his Recipient of Service. The recipient was, of course, Kim Hyukjin.


    It was just like what had happened with Kang Somyi. He could read everything about Schultz, as well as all of Schultzs hidden pieces. At least up to the intermediate period.


    In addition, Schultzs level was synchronized with Hyukjins.


    My level is 44.


    The German yer was once again shocked. He knew Kim Hyukjins level was going to be high, but he never expected it to be in the mid-40s.


    On the other hand, Hyukjin wasnt all that surprised, having experienced this before. A series of notifications went off in his head.<blockquote>


    [The Sea King of Service has chosen you as their Recipient of Service.]


    [The condition for their choice is the Immortal Fleet.]


    [If they are not given the Immortal Fleet within 24 hours, the foundation of trust between the involved parties will fall apart.]</blockquote>


    Everything proceeded quickly. Schultz understood what Hyukjin meant and agreed to use an incantation to restore and enhance the Immortal Fleet.


    I know the perfect ce for the incantation.


    Incantations didnt just pop out in any random time or ce. Only a specific environment and circumstances would allow that particr incantation to shine.


    Hyukjin asked, Where?


    The Yi Sun-sin Statue Gate.


    It was surprising that a first-time visitor of the country knew about the Yi Sun-sin Statue Gate. It was originally called the Immortal Fleet Gate, but apparently, the gates name had changed. Still, the information Hyukjin learned from clearing it the first time would be clues for the second clear.


    They went to Gwanghwamun together. When Hyukjin was here with Pietro, the Yi Sun-sin Statue had turned its head to stare at him, sending a slight chill down his back.


    This time, it felt different. There was a yellow light above the statues head, as if giving him a hint.<blockquote>


    [Yi Sun-sin Statue Gate]


    A gate that can only be activated and entered by someone who has the Immortal Fleet and is apanied by a person engraved with the stigma of a special incantation.</blockquote>


    Hyukjin could not enter it alone, nor could Schultz. Both conditions had to be fulfilled for the Yi Sun-sin Statue Gate to open once again.


    You seem to know this ce, said Schultz.


    This is where I obtained the Immortal Fleet. Though the name has changed a little.


    The location was the same, but the name and gate description were different. Schultz nodded in understanding.


    I think we can enhance the Immortal Fleet here. Ill do the incantation here.


    Hyukjin activated the gate.<blockquote>


    [Entering the Yi-Sun-sin Statue Gate.]</blockquote>


    When Hyukjin first entered the Immortal Fleet Gate, he heard a narration. Someone had read aloud lines from the War Diary of Yi Sun-sin.


    He remembered the gist of those lines.<blockquote>


    <em>[We set off in the morning and reached the dock at Dangpo straightaway.]</em></blockquote>


    But to Hyukjins surprise, the voice he heard wasnt the same as before.


    We set off in the morning and reached the dock at Dangpo straightaway.


    It wasnt a narration. Schultz was reciting the lines himself.


    Twenty enemy ships were moored in a line. We surrounded them and engaged inbat, but one of the big ships seemed to be a panokseon of our country.


    Schultz?


    Fog was thick around them, the saltiness of the sea rich in the air. This time, they were on the shore.


    The next part was about the height of the mast, the Japanesemander, and letting loose crossbolts, cannonballs, and bullets


    Schultz continued to speak.


    The mast on the ship was around two jang (6.66 meters) high, and the Japanesemander on the observation tform sat imperiously, unmoving.


    He was matching the narration from back then, word for word.


    But then, he faltered. His lips moved wordlessly. He was like a broken doll trying to say something butcking the words. Schultz twisted his body in pain, hot steam emerging from his lips.


    His skin


    It was cracking.


    Its the side effect of an iplete incantation!


    He had toplete the incantation. Otherwise, his body would shatter like ss after an impact, unable to bear the burden of the incantation.


    Aghhh aghhhhh!


    Schultz released a terrible, uncontroble scream. Hyukjin hastilybed his memories.


    After thest line, we were given the Battle of Hansan Ind quest.


    What was thatst line?


    He racked his brain for thest line. Even if you didnt remember the parts in the middle, you typically remembered the first andst parts.


    I remember it!


    He quickly said, We let loose a rain of crossbolts, cannonballs, and bullets.


    Schultz continued, spurred by the reminder. We let loose a rain of crossbolts, cannonballs, and bullets.


    And one breathter


    <em>Seek life to die, seek death to live.</em>


    Hyukjin could tell.


    The incantation has beenpleted.


    This wasnt a partial sess like all the incantations so far, but a wless one. This ce was originally the Immortal Fleet Gate.<blockquote>


    [Immortal Fleet Gate]


    The soul and will of the Chungmugong (Lord of Loyal Valor) Yi Sun-sin culminated in the Immortal Fleet. Those who wish to seed his will and write a new page in the history of conquest, enter here.</blockquote>


    A voice rang out. It wasnt a System notification, but someones voice.


    Write a new page in the history of conquest.


    A massive giant formed behind Schultz. The voice seemed to belong to that giant. The squirming shadow soon turned into a brilliant light that swept away all the fog, revealing the blue sea. The wind picked up, whipping into a gale. A wave took form on the water.


    There, in the distance I see ships.


    The massive giant behind Schultz was shining bright gold.


    Oh my God.


    The golden figure radiated an immense aura more overwhelming than any powerful monster he had faced so far, be it Fire Giants or Red Devils. An aura so imposing that Hyukjin found it difficult to breathe.


    The incantation isplete right now.


    The giant slowly moved its body. When it moved, lightning split the sky and thunder rumbled above. A massive wave spread outwards towards the sea.


    <em>Crack!</em>


    Cracks were spreading along Schultzs body.


    Schultz was probably as shocked by this situation as Hyukjin was. Neither of them had expected this. Schultz hadpleted the incantation, but his body was about to disintegrate from the burden of it.


    And then, Hyukjin knew. Why this ce existed, what this ce was for, and what he, the person being served by people tasked with service, had to do here.


    I need to weaken the incantations strength.

 Chapter 299

    Chapter 299


    I need to weaken the incantations strength.


    He exined that to Senia, putting it in more concrete terms so the Guardians could follow his actions a little better.


    Using the strength of the incantation, I will enhance the Immortal Fleet right here, right now.


    The conditions were already fulfilled.<blockquote>


    [A special incantation is active.]


    [Immortal Fleet restoration has begun.]</blockquote>


    Schultz opened his mouth. Golden energy was leaking from the cracks that had spidered over his dry skin. It was like he was bleeding golden light instead of blood.


    Those who seek death shall live, those who seek life shall die.<blockquote>


    [Immortal Fleet restoration in progress.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin felt the strength of the giant that had emerged from Schultzs back getting sucked towards the Immortal Fleet. It wasnt visible to the naked eye, but a flow of energy only Hyukjins Eye of Perception could see.


    The Immortal Fleet is getting restored.


    The Immortal Fleet hadnt appeared, but Hyukjin could feel it. Slowly, little by little, it was getting repaired.<blockquote>


    [Immortal Fleet is 50% restored.]


    [Immortal Fleet is 80% restored.]


    [Immortal Fleet has been fully restored.]</blockquote>


    The golden light seeping from the cracks in Schultzs skin was much dimmer now, and the giant at his back was a little smaller.


    Still not enough.


    He had to weaken the incantation more. If he didnt do this right, Schultz would die. Hyukjin went right into enhancement. He would harness Schultzs incantationand the overwhelming power Schultz had summoned.


    Hyukjin took out the reward the Herdsman of Las Vegas had given him.<blockquote>


    [Use the Special Ability Enhancement Crystal?]


    [Select the special ability you want to enhance.]</blockquote>


    The ability he chose was naturally the Immortal Fleet.<blockquote>


    [Enhance the Immortal Fleet?]


    [You may choose andbine the elements needed for enhancement.]</blockquote>


    Thanks to the altered Stardust, Hyukjin knew all the hidden attributes of the Special Ability Enhancement Crystal, even the fact that this crystal waspatible with the Immortal Fleet. However, he hadnt shared the full list of enhancement requirements with Senia or the Guardians.


    Thebining element is the Endless Sky Crystal.


    Hyukjin took it out without hesitation.


    I need to break it.


    But he couldnt do it carelessly. The Endless Sky Crystal contained Endless Sky mana, a highly hazardous force for the vast majority of lifeforms.


    Hyukjin drew out his energy. Just as he had with the Explorer of Service, he used one of his abilities on the newly advanced Sea King of Service.<blockquote>


    -Ability Share: Share an ability with designated observation targets.</blockquote>


    He could use all of his Observers Eye skills on Kang Somyi. It was the same with Schultz. The ability Hyukjin shared was none other than Endless Sky Physique.


    I wont be able to share itpletely, but its enough.


    If this was the Endless Sky, no amount of Ability Share could guarantee Schultzs safety. Hyukjin still hadnt confirmed whether Ability Share granted his ability in its entirety. But they werent in the Endless Sky, and Schultz only needed to endure the mana leaking from a low-grade Endless Sky Crystal.


    And most of this mana will be used up in the enhancement.


    So Schultz would be able to handle it. Hyukjin went for it. To break this crystal, this object that could be called the lifeblood of a dungeon, he needed the Endless Sky Hammer.<blockquote>


    [Endless Sky Hammer]


    An artifact that can shatter an Endless Sky Crystal. An Endless Sky Hammer is needed to be able to harness an Endless Sky Crystals power.


    Grade: Low</blockquote>


    He brought down the Endless Sky Hammer on the Endless Sky Crystal.


    With just one strike, the crystal shattered, releasing the mana it contained. Hyukjin felt a wave of sheer power hit him like a wall, and his eyes were blinded. Even so, as overwhelming as it was, it was a familiar feeling.<blockquote>


    [Endless Sky Crystal has been chosen as a material.]


    [Beginning Immortal Fleet enhancement.]


    [Calcting the +1 enhancement sess rate.]</blockquote>


    As usual, enhancement was most swayed by talent and luck. And Hyukjin had already confirmed multiple times that his talent for enhancement was second to none.


    The notices continued.<blockquote>


    [+1 enhancement sess rate: 120%]


    [Endless Sky Crystal is involved in the enhancement.]


    [Endless Sky mana reacts with the Chungmugongs Will.]</blockquote>


    The first time he came here with Pietro, this ce was called the Immortal Fleet Gate. Hyukjin remembered the gate description.<blockquote>


    The soul and will of the Chungmugong (Lord of Loyal Valor) Yi Sun-sin culminated in the Immortal Fleet.</blockquote>


    This is definitely a continuation of that gate.<blockquote>


    [Proceeding with additional enhancement.]


    [Congrattions!]


    [The enhancement was sessful!]</blockquote>


    * * *


    * * *


    Hyukjin confirmed that [Immortal Fleet] had be [Immortal Fleet+3]. The giant moving behind Schultz was nowhere to be seen, and he was no longer radiating the golden glow.


    Schultz slumped to the ground, unconscious.


    Hes out of danger, I think.


    They were in the clear, then. Hyukjin heard Senias voice.


    yer Kim Hyukjin. Please exin the enhancement.


    I achieved a +3 enhancement.


    A +3?


    Yeah.


    But Im certain you only did one round of enhancement. How did you get a +3?


    I think the Endless Sky mana and Chungmugongs will reacted, resulting in an additional enhancement that ended up being a +3.


    Senia nodded. Actually, she already knew thatHyukjin was sharing the Immortal Fleet description with her right now. She was just acting like she didnt know in order to inform the Guardians.


    After inserting an intentional pause, Senia continued, But it doesnt seem to just be a +3.


    Getting a +3 was already surprising. That alone would have been an astonishing result, since a +3 had been achieved in a single enhancement by an Observer who wasnt even an enhancement or production ss yer. Such enhancements were rare feats even for Masters.


    Hyukjin knew that as well. But more shocking than that was the grade of the enhancement.


    Youre right.


    Please exin.


    I got a red enhancement.


    With his talent for enhancement, he had gotten blue enhancements so far. But this time, it wasnt blue.


    In his former life, Master Pedro said the following:


    <em>Theres an unsurpassable gap between regr enhancements and blue enhancements. There are cases where a +1 blue enhancement is better than a +3 regr enhancement.</em>


    That was the definition of a typical blue enhancement.


    <em>But red enhancements have powerful merits that cant bepared to regr enhancements. Sometimes, they draw out an items unique ability, or activate a hidden piece, or maximize thetent power of the enhanced object.</em>


    All the Masters agreed on this point.


    <em>Theoretically, there must be an enhancement grade above red enhancements. But red enhancements are our limit. Despite that, we consider red enhancements our masterpieces.</em>


    If blues were far better enhancements than regr ones, then reds were enhancements that could even bestow new abilities to an item.


    Hyukjin checked the Immortal Fleets full item description.<blockquote>


    [Immortal Fleet+3]


    Battles by summoning an undying fleet. Can only be summoned on the ocean. The summon duration and fleets fighting prowess will be determined by the summoners Willpower.<ul><li>


    Number of summonable vessels: 20</li><li>


    Upon fulfilling a special incantation, the Willpower consumption markedly decreases.</li><li>


    When used by the Sea King of Service under themand of their sovereign, 1 Turtleship can be summoned.</li><li>


    When used by the Sea King of Service under themand of their sovereign, Immortal Fleet can be used on water rather than on the sea.</li><li>


    If the person the Sea King of Service serves has a skill rted to ability sharing, Immortal Fleet can be shared. However, only 20 vessels can be summoned.</li></ul></blockquote>


    The ability could now generate a Turtle Ship, and it could be used on water as well as be shared.


    Mmgh! Schultzs eyes shed open. What just happened?


    Immediately afterwards, Schultz rolled over and vomited the contents of his stomach. He puked for a long time before recovering hisposure.


    I apologize. That was unsightly.


    No, its thanks to you that I was able to fully restore and enhance the Immortal Fleet.


    Everything was for this very moment.


    And now, I give the Immortal Fleet to you.


    He had been nning on giving Schultz the ability, since Schultzs advancement to the Sea King of Service made him Hyukjins subordinate. But now, even that loss was basically nonexistent.


    Im capable of ability sharing.


    Ah!


    Schultz felt greatly relieved. Even after he took this ability, Hyukjin could still use it. Now that he wasntpletely snatching the Immortal Fleet away, it weighed less heavily on his conscience.


    I think this ability would be better ced in your hands than mine. Only then can it shine.


    ...Thank you. Schultz resolved himself. I swear to you, I will prioritize protecting the seas of Korea. Not just because you are my sovereign, but because I am someone who knows how to repay a favor.


    Hyukjin grinned.


    A ss scenario of yours has cropped up in the vicinity of the South Sea of Korea.


    Like with Kang Somyi, he could see Schultzs ss and the associated hidden scenarios. The German yer was due for a prolonged stay in the countrymany things were hidden in Korea.


    Understood.


    Schultz went on one knee, then recited the words the Sea King of Service was scripted to say.


    The Sea King of Service greets the sovereign.


    Shortly afterwards, the Immortal Fleet changed hands.<blockquote>


    [Immortal Fleet+3 has been transferred.]


    [The Sea King of Service has acquired the Immortal Fleet.]


    [Proceeding into the scenario of the Yi Sun-sin Statue Gate.]


    [The quest King Kraken Hunt has begun.]</blockquote>


    The sea began to pitch and roll, the waves rising up and the wind blowing hard. Hyukjin sensed the presence of monsters far in the distance. The aura was one he had already experienced.


    King Krakens.


    Whats that?


    A giant octopus monster. Their levels are in the mid tote 40s.


    The one Hyukjin defeated had a boss monster designation, but not these. They were regr monsters.


    If theyre in the mid tote 40s theyre fairly strong.


    Yes.


    Water rushed forward, wetting their feet. Thend they were standing on was turning into sea.


    The field is changing, Hyukjin said calmly. He could tell. Itll turn into a deep ocean very soon.


    The water was getting deeper. Deep waters were the best environment for King Krakens. Schultzs eyes grew serious.


    I await yourmand.


    You may summon the Immortal Fleet.


    Schultz heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [The sovereign has issued hismand.]


    [Turtle Ship can be summoned.]</blockquote>


    Schultz realized. This was a stage for the Immortal Fleet, not the King Krakens, to shine. He was here to personally learn and experience the strength of the Immortal Fleet and the Sea King of Service when next to his sovereign.


    Turtle Ship.


    The product of a red enhancement, the Turtle Ship, made its debut.

 Chapter 300

    Chapter 300


    Schultz sensed the Turtle Ship before he heard the notification.


    I have to be fully focused.


    The field around them had turned into the sea. Schultz and Hyukjin found themselves on the deck of a ship, a Turtle Ship floating some distance ahead.


    If I cant control it properly Ill explode.


    That was how it felt to Schultz. The Turtle Ship was not something he could handle at his current level. The moment he lost control, his body would explode into a million pieces.


    Its okay, said Kim Hyukjin.


    ...


    Schultz snapped back to his senses.


    I dont know how, but hes helping me.


    He did hear a notice about ability sharing earlier, but he wasnt sure what it was. He just had a rough sense that some ability of Hyukjins was protecting his body. It even urred to him that if Kim Hyukjin wasnt helping him, his body might have exploded as soon as he summoned the Turtle Ship.


    Schultzs suspicion was close to the truth. Hyukjin was surprised, too.


    So this is the Turtle Ship?


    Hyukjin felt a trace of Endless Sky mana from the Turtle Ship. It was efficiently utilizing and drawing out the special mana.


    He heard a notice.<blockquote>


    [The Sea King of Service awaits themand to fire.]</blockquote>


    Schultz was looking at him, waiting for his liegesmand.<blockquote>


    [Giving themand to fire.]</blockquote>


    Giving the go-ahead was not difficult.


    You may fire.


    Your wish is mymand.


    The panokseons moved aside, and the Turtle Ship glided down the middle. Golden energy gathered in the wide-open maw at the head of the Turtle Ship.


    TN: A panokseon is a board-roofed warship used during the Joseon era.


    <em>Schwaaaaa!</em>


    There wasnt actually a sound, but he thought he could hear the rush of mana as it violently gathered in the beam.


    Far more destructive power than when I use the ckfire Bow.


    A golden ray several magnitudes more powerful than the Divine Bow Physiqued ckfire Bow shot out, cutting open the sea. Fog filled the air. Technically, it was steam.


    A great deal of seawater had vaporized from the extreme heat. A notice rang out over the steamy battlefield.<blockquote>


    [King Kraken has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [330 Coins acquired.]


    [King Kraken Ink acquired.]


    [King Kraken has been killed.]


    [EXP acquired.]


    [330 Coins acquired.]</blockquote>


    Two King Krakens were killed with a single attack. Hyukjin was participating in the fight as an Observer. The rewards he had forfeited when he hunted the boss King Kraken, he got here.


    Also, he could feel that it wasnt over yet.


    Because it had been enhanced with the Endless Sky Crystal, the Endless Sky Crystal was lending its power. The Turtle Ship could fire another three shots of this level. As long as Schultz could handle it, of course.


    I think I can handle another three attacks, stated Schultz. An unknown energy seems to be assisting me.


    Schultz didnt know what it was called, but he knew it was a special force of apletely different nature from the mana he knew. He also knew the person who was helping him harness that power was the man he had chosen to serve, Kim Hyukjin.


    Hyukjin watched with interest.


    Mm? The previous attack was a golden ray. This time, its fire?


    The Turtle Ship spewed a stream of mes. Apparently, it could also unleash fire attacks. This was the sea, where fire was inevitably weaker.<blockquote>


    [King Kraken has been killed.]


    [King Kraken has been killed.]</blockquote>


    Another two King Krakens perished. Hyukjins Eye of Perception captured the changes in the water.


    Theyre running away.


    When met with a sea creature stronger than themselves, King Krakens would flee. They didnt stand their ground. In this case, they had collectively determined their opponent was at least one level stronger than themselves.


    I will hunt them down.


    Hyukjin nodded. The sharp spikes on the hard steel shell of the Turtle Ship shot into the air, each and every one of them a deadly weapon. They then hurtled into the water.


    What Schultz had used was the special skill of the Turtle Ship, Steel Rain.<blockquote>


    [King Kraken has been killed.]


    [King Kraken has been killed.]</blockquote>


    The Steel Rain immediately killed another two King Krakens. The sea turned red with blood.


    Some timeter<blockquote>


    [King Kraken has been killed.]


    [King Kraken has been killed.]</blockquote>


    They had likely bled to death while fleeing. The panokseons began to surge forward at a quick clip.


    <em>Thump! Thump! Thump! Thump!</em>


    They gave chase to the fleeing King Krakens, the drums beating an urgent march. Terrorstricken by the Turtle Ships might, the King Krakens simply fled with no thought of resistance. Under the simultaneous fire of the ships and the faceless soldiers, the King Krakens died.<blockquote>


    [King Kraken has been killed.]


    [King Kraken has been killed.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin no longer sensed any King Krakens in the vicinity.<blockquote>


    [Congrattions!]


    [Level increased.]</blockquote>


    His level was now 45. To be honest, this exceeded Hyukjins expectations.


    This things even stronger than Seohye.


    The strongest card up Hyukjins sleeve was the Guardian Tower Ahn Seohye. But today, he had gained a card even stronger than her, at least when they were on the water.


    The spoils are about 4,000 Coins and 3 inks, as well as a rare fishing rod.


    That wasnt all.<blockquote>


    [All King Krakens have been hunted.]


    [The quest King Kraken Hunt has been cleared.]</blockquote>


    Schultz was given a map.<blockquote>


    [Map of Uldolmok Strait received.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin waited a little. Judging from Senias nce, he was going to get something, too. The Guardians were staying quiet, so the rewards distribution wasnt over yet. From their perspective, the scenario wasntpletely done yet. Sure enough<blockquote>


    [Your first battle with the Sea King of Service has ended in victory.]


    [The hidden keywords Write a new page in the history of conquest have been wlessly achieved.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin guessed those two, plus the King Kraken Hunt, were the conditions to unlock this reward.<blockquote>


    [The special ability Great General Summoning has been created.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin was given a new skill, Great General Summoning. It was an ability that allowed him to summon abat yer rted to the service sses.


    With the addition of this skill, Hyukjins status window was updated.<blockquote>


    [Status Window]


    Name: Kim Hyukjin (yer)


    Level: 45


    Contracted Guardian: [Nameless Guardian]


    Title: [Pioneer of Victory] [Excellent yer] [First Adversary] [Pure Person of Fire] [Phantom Thief Squirrels Master] [Starting Sovereign] [Starting Fighter] [Thousand Dog Master]


    Dungeon title: [True Ruler of the Gran Seoul Dungeon] [True Ruler of the Predator Tree Colony]


    Innate ability: [Eye of Perception] [Sword of Insight] [Fusion]


    Special ability: [Absorption] [Mettle] [Eye for an Eye, Tooth for a Tooth] [Great General Summoning]


    Trait: Divine Bow Physique, Divine Sword Physique, Endless Sky Physique


    Strength: 24


    Intelligence: 24


    Agility: 30


    Perception: 24


    Constitution: 24


    Willpower: 62 (+30)


    Bonus stats: 12


    Random stats: 6


    Undistributed stats: 18</blockquote>


    * * *


    * * *


    While Hyukjin was checking his status window, the Guardians rushed to send him messages.<blockquote>


    [The Conductor of Sound is awed by your stratagem.]


    [The Lady of the Scales apuds your will to do good.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain is delighted by your ughter.]


    [The Nameless Observer is observing.]


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas is filled with admiration while watching your growth as a sovereign.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin knew these five Guardians had just beat out countless otherspossibly at a huge costto send him a message. Normally, it wasntmon for five Guardians at a time to fill every slot.<blockquote>


    [The Conductor of Sound has sent you a 1,000 Coin sponsorship.]


    [The True Master of the Heavenly Demonic Mountain has sent you a 1,100 Coin sponsorship.]


    [The Lady of the Scales has sent you a 1,200 Coin sponsorship.]


    [The Herdsman of Las Vegas has sent you a 1,300 Coin sponsorship.]


    [The Nameless Observer has sent you a 2,000 Coin sponsorship.]</blockquote>


    A smile yed at Hyukjins lips.


    Theyrepeting amongst themselves.


    The closer he got to level 50, the more fierce their jostling would be. In order to get a contract with the producer of exciting content that could satisfy their desires, they would fawn over him. This was an example of that.


    Its not thatmon for the Guardians to all go for Coins.


    That meant there was currently a tacit agreement between the Guardians.<em></em>Something like, <em>Well duke it out, but hes only level 45 and its still early, so lets all just keep it at Coins for now </em>was highly likely.


    For Hyukjin, it was a wee sight.


    Its Coins right now and theyll stick to a fair fight for now, but


    But this was a cutthroat world ofpetition, and it was the same for the Guardians. It might be like this at the start, but it wouldnt persist. The important thing was that the Guardians had begun topete.


    Schultz was dazed.


    A whole five Guardians sent me messages.


    That was amon urrence for Hyukjin, but not for Schultz.


    I was sponsored a total of 2,000 Coins. I do not deserve to receive such a big sponsorship. I will give half to my sovereign.


    Will you?


    Hyukjin didnt refuse. Why would he look a gift horse in the mouth?


    Schultz was happy even while giving away the Coins.


    What a thrill.


    The electrifying ecstasy that had coursed through him while he was operating the Turtle Ship was almost like doing drugs. The thrill seemed to run from his brain down his spine into every little nerve of his body.


    So this is what the System meant when it said I can reach my greatest potential when Im with you, no, with my sovereign.


    Schultz was sincerely grateful. He had just experienced a new world, and the gates had opened to him.


    I will go to the South Sea. With the Map of the Strait.


    Please do.


    Schultzs hidden piece and ss scenarios were hidden in the South Sea of Korea. There was no reason for Hyukjin to go there, so Schultz would have to grow stronger on his own.


    If I need you, Ill call you via summoning.


    It would be my honor. I would even jump straight out of bed to join you. Please call me at any time.


    He wanted to fight by Hyukjins side again. A battle with Hyukjin was a battle of apletely different world. It was pure ecstasy, a taste of heaven.


    Only when he was next to his liege could he feelplete.<blockquote>


    [The Yi Sun-sin Statue Gate has been cleared.]</blockquote>


    Hyukjin and Schultz left the gate. Schultz bid a respectful farewell before heading straight to the South Sea.


    One day passed. Someone came to Hyukjins house. There werent many people who would pay a visit to his house like this.


    He opened the door.


    This joyful asion calls for a passionate hug.


    A Trantion Marble was already in use.


    Because that is how a manly man greets a friend.


    The Italian Master and craftsman of restoration, Pedro, hade to visit, and he was here for an interesting reason. Various links that seemed to have nothing to do with one another began toe together, joined by onemon element, Kim Hyukjin.


    Have you done a strong and manly restoration recently?

 Chapter [NaN]

Chapter [NaN]


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