RKP 101-110

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101

The Tower of Dragonkin, infamous even in my past life.

Currently, it's known as the 'Unknown Tower,' as no player who has entered has ever come out alive.

The tower was gradually building its reputation, just as it had in my past life.

Already, a significant number of high-level players had entered the tower, only to disappear silently.

The Abyss is a world of the unknown, with more unexplored areas than explored ones.

The World Players Association offered rewards to those who explored any location within the Abyss, be it geographical features, dungeons, labyrinths, towers, or monsters.

This was why leading corporations sponsored named players.

Huge rewards, honor, and sponsorships related to exploration.

Parties, raid teams, and guilds were formed for various reasons.

Nevertheless, the Tower of Dragonkin had not been explored beyond the 10th floor due to the danger of the monsters residing within.

Dragonkin, not of pure blood, but called half or quarter.

As they were mixed with dragon blood, they were naturally difficult to hunt.

Moreover, unlike ordinary towers, the end was unknown, adding a different dimension of pressure.

New infamy was added to old infamy, and at some point, the number of raid teams seeking it decreased significantly.

Not to mention the cost of potions for hunting.

It was the perfect place to incur a deficit if you suffered a severe injury.

There was no merit in risking their lives for those who were S-rank high-level players.

The last challengers.

Players who chased honor, not money.

Those who wanted the title of the first explorer.

Their patience was limited to the 10th floor, and the Tower of Dragonkin was forgotten.

Now, Taehyun is on the 15th floor.

From the 1st to the 5th floor, monsters that were hard to call Dragonkin came out, so it was no different from the 10th floor in his past life.

Taehyun, who was left alone in the tower, didn't look too good.

'This is driving me crazy.'

He thought it was strange from the moment he entered the tower.

Each floor was wider than any ordinary dungeon, and not a single Dragonkin appeared up to the 5th floor.

He also didn't understand why the monsters were rushing down as if they were being chased, instead of waiting on each floor.

Monsters of S-rank or higher acting like low-level monsters.

Even Dragonkin with intelligence.

Taehyun came up with several reasonable suspicions as he ascended to the 10th and 15th floors.

Could it be that changes occurred in this Tower of Dragonkin as he regressed?

Could it be that he couldn't leave this place unless he caught the boss-level monster of the tower?

Even if that were the case, he thought he could handle it sufficiently now.

He devoured the gate as planned and succeeded in luring out the boss-level monster.

But.

A giant body that couldn't fit in his eyes, reptilian red eyes.

'Dragon.'

He never imagined that the master of the tower would be a real dragon.

Taehyun couldn't help but be taken aback this time.

Tremble.

His whole body was covered in Devouring Mana.

Even so, his legs were trembling as if the difference in power couldn't be hidden.

It was hard to believe that it was the same mana that nonchalantly devoured high-level skills.

Dragon.

One of the strongest races among monsters.

He had already experienced its power with the Bone Dragon summoned by Narendra Neru.

Considering that only three people had ever caught one single-handedly in his past life, and the dragons they caught were also Saint-class.

'This is really... dangerous.'

Taehyun struggled to move his stiffening body.

A special aura emitted by the dragon's existence.

Dragon Fear.

After being exposed to that power, he couldn't move properly as if he were hit by a paralysis skill.

'Damn it. At this rate...'

Taehyun took a difficult step and let out a rough breath.

Only then did he feel the temperature around him rising rapidly.

"Hoo... Red... Dragon..."

Smoke was rising from his body.

It was a phenomenon that occurred when the Red Dragon unleashed its power.

There wasn't much information about dragons now, but it was different in his past life.

Silver. Green. Red. Black. Blue. Gold. White.

Their tendencies varied according to the seven attributes, but their strength was not different.

Just as there were ranks for players, there was also a classification method for the monster called Dragon.

Hatchling, which was not yet the power of S-rank.

Saint Dragon, known as S+ rank.

Wyrm, rated as SS rank.

Ancient, rated as SSS rank.

The good thing was that there were not many dragons, and most of those encountered in the depths were Saint Dragon class.

'Even in my past life, no Ancient-class dragon was ever discovered.'

The Bone Dragon that Taehyun faced was created from the corpse of a Saint Dragon-class Green Dragon.

Even so, he couldn't avoid a difficult fight, and Devouring went out of control.

'Judging from the energy I feel now, it's at least Wyrm-class... I'll die if I make a mistake.'

Taehyun clenched his teeth as he grasped his opponent's capabilities.

Ding.

[Skill Stone Skin (A) has been activated.]

He put on 'Stone Skin' to resist Dragon Fear even a little.

Even so, the trembling of his body did not stop.

'Damn it, of all things, it had to be a Red Dragon, which is said to have the fiercest personality.'

Taehyun cursed and watched the guy's movements.

If he attacked rashly, he would die before he could even counterattack.

[Interesting. You not only came into my Lair but also woke me up. You're the first guy like you.]

The monster's language was heard in Taehyun's head.

Dragon Lair.

That was another way of expressing the place where they spend most of their time without revealing their appearance.

It felt like he had been hit on the head with a hammer by the newly learned fact.

'Huh... The Tower of Dragonkin was a Lair?'

It was also known that some dragons with strong curiosity conducted their own experiments there.

They made monsters fight each other or fused monsters to create chimeras.

Considering that all the monsters coming out of the Tower of Dragonkin were Dragonkin, it was a fitting explanation.

Then the huge eyes turned into a red aura.

A man appeared before Taehyun's eyes.

A Westerner with red hair fluttering, not exceeding 2 meters in height.

It was a skill called Polymorph among players.

[Oh? You're a guy who belongs to the category of East Asian.]

"You seem to know quite a bit about humans."

Taehyun said, trying to calm his trembling voice.

He was trying to get rid of the pressure and thinking about various strategies in his head.

[I can hear you running your head all the way here.]

"Should we introduce ourselves?"

[How dare you ask me for my name. Do you want to die?]

It wasn't a situation to maintain his unique poker face.

Taehyun continued the conversation with a do-or-die attitude.

"My name is Kim Taehyun. My nationality is Shin Han-guk. You can't even tell me that much? Oh great Dragon?"

The last part was a slightly sarcastic tone.

Red eyes and red hair.

The man's lips, which had been expressionless all along, opened.

[My name is Kaiselin. The one with a redder heart than anyone else.]

"Okay. Kaiselin. I didn't know this was your Lair. The exit was too difficult to install compared to the entrance."

Taehyun said shamelessly, pretending to look around.

It was because it felt like his whole body was being torn apart if he looked into his eyes.

[Hehehe. If a fun guy like you comes in sometimes, I've taken measures to prevent them from leaving. No one has reached the 100th floor yet. You're the first to draw me out.]

"I trespassed and even robbed, so I should apologize. If you want, I'd like to leave right now..."

Kugugugugung.

Taehyun's body began to be pressed down by a stronger magic power than before.

[Oh. You're holding out? Against the power of this Kaiselin?]

At the same time as the ridicule, a message window appeared.

[The 'Power of the Dragon' is in effect. Strength decreases by 5.]

[The 'Power of the Dragon' is in effect. Health decreases by 5.]

[The 'Power of the Dragon' is in effect. Speed decreases by 5.]

[The 'Power of the Dragon' is in effect. Magic power decreases by 5.]

'Kuh... It was impossible to solve it with words.'

Kwaaaaa.

Taehyun fully released the power of Devouring.

The red eyes turned redder than ever.

Geugeugeugeugeuk.

[Such deep magic power. You're not human after all.]

"Shut up... If it's a Lair... build it like a Lair!!"

Ding.

[Skill Stone Skin (A) is enhanced. Magic consumption is accelerated.]

[Skill Aura of the Knight King (A) has been activated. Targeting the object.]

[Skill Paralysis (A) has been activated. Targeting the object.]

[Skill Chains of Entrapment (A) has been activated. Targeting the object.]

[The 'Power of the Dragon' is in effect. Resisting with a mysterious power. Resistance failed. Skill use is not possible. Available skills: 3/10]

It was a situation similar to when he met Rosaria.

Overwhelming strength that could not be blocked even with the power of Devouring.

The only positive thing was.

'Does that mean there are three skills I can use?'

Taehyun's face brightened as he checked the surviving skills.

It was because the embers of hope had not been completely extinguished yet.

Kaiselin was also the same, noticing something strange.

He was definitely going to seal all the magic power.

But Taehyun's body was still surrounded by dark red magic power.

[A power that doesn't go out even with Dragon Words.]

Step. Step. Step.

Kaiselin came right in front of him.

'Concentrate. Kim Taehyun. The opportunity is only once.'

Taehyun controlled the magic power with his eyes closed.

[Answer me. Who gave you that power?]

He suddenly held his face out to Taehyun.

At the same time.

Ding.

[Skill Complete Hypnosis (A) has been activated. Targeting the object.]

Two pairs of red eyes met.

Kaiselin, who opened his eyes, had an absurd expression.

He was going to manipulate the opponent's mind.

He would dig through his memories to extract information, and if he lost interest, he would make him a new Dragonkin.

The plans he had thought of so far had never gone wrong.

Surely it did.

[How dare you avoid my technique.]

He unintentionally flowed into the mental world due to Taehyun's skill used just before.

This situation was unfamiliar to him, who had reigned over countless monsters.

[But this is also interesting.]

He had lived for an countless time.

He had seen the mental worlds of countless monsters and humans.

But the sight he was seeing now was the first time.

Red, resembling the sky of the Abyss.

Below that, a land like a desert unfolded.

Unknown doors were scattered all over the land.

It was when Kaiselin was about to open one of the doors.

"Stop."

[Oh.]

Kaiselin's face was once again filled with curiosity.

Because of the man who appeared before him.

A human with the same appearance as Taehyun.

With dark red hair and redder eyes than himself.

[But it's strange.]

Kaiselin sat on the floor and asked Taehyun, who was looking up at him.

[What are you?]

"Even if it's a succubus... I never thought even a lizard would come in here."

Taehyun murmured as if he didn't care about Kaiselin's question.

Kaiselin's eyes twitched at the word lizard.

[You're recklessly babbling with your torn mouth.]

"Ah, you don't have to worry. I'm just an existence that lives hidden here. For now."

[Insignificant thing. I asked you what you are.]

"Lizard guys always have bad habits. Hey, do I look like the same idiot as the one outside?"

[You are truly arrogant and presumptuous.]

Flash.

Magic power was concentrated in Kaiselin's red eyes.

Even if it was a mental world, there were no restrictions on his power.

[Insignificant thing. I will not kill you lightly.]

Hwaaaaa.

The power called the essence of the Red Dragon.

Flames of magic power blazed.

"Those lizard guys always bothered me with that pride. Good. I have more usable magic power anyway..."

Taehyun rose to his feet in response to Kaiselin's actions.

"I'll play with you for a while. Lizard."

Kwaaaaa.

Raising dark red magic power like a haze.

Another 'Taehyun' smirked.

Episode 102

Taehyun’s Inner World.

Two ‘beings’ were clashing with their magic power.

It was the Red Dragon Kaiselin, who had invaded the inner world, and another Taehyun, a resident of the inner world.

Kwaaaang.

The explosion of magic power was momentary.

Kaiselin’s flames were devoured by Taehyun's magic power.

[You….]

Kaiselin couldn't contain his excitement and once again raised his magic power.

This time, with twice the power of before.

It was a technique called Flame Force.

Flames that could instantly burn the inner world blazed.

In reality, Kaiselin could easily turn an entire area into a sea of fire if he wanted to.

He thought this time he would surely eliminate Taehyun, who was arrogantly laughing.

That thought didn't last long.

Kwaaaaa.

The magic power that came out of Taehyun's body swallowed the Flame Force.

Crack. Crack.

A moment later.

The flames, which were no less than the sun, went out in vain.

[Again… that power….]

Gritting his teeth.

Kaiselin gnashed his teeth.

The unknown crimson magic power that absorbed his flames.

It was definitely the same property as what he had seen before entering the inner world.

No. It was similar, but different.

The biggest difference was the power.

Unlike the skill 'Devour,' which was nothing more than a strange trick.

Devour in the inner world was vibrant, as if it would devour everything.

The result of devouring the dragon's magic power.

The magic power that devoured Kaiselin's flames had become unbelievably huge.

Now, even the proud Kaiselin would have a hard time handling it unless he returned to his true form.

[You… what are you?]

Kaiselin growled and asked.

“Is this the limit for a lizard head?”

Taehyun, who was snickering, sneered once again.

[Dare… dare you mock me!!]

Red light poured out of Kaiselin's body.

Polymorph.

He returned to his true form with the full power of a Wyrm-class.

He was so huge that even Taehyun was speechless.

“Tsk tsk. It's not good to be big, but… it's definitely dangerous if I leave it alone.”

It was still an uncertain world.

There was no good in having two SS-rank beings clash in such a place.

Hwaaa.

Flames gathered in Kaiselin's mouth.

The breath of a Wyrm-class Red Dragon.

It was a power that could be called SS+ beyond the SS-rank based on human standards.

Quarr. Quarr.

The concentrated magic power of the flames began to aim.

Even so, Taehyun stood in place without thinking of dodging.

Kaiselin was sure.

This time too, he will.

He would believe in that arrogant power and take it head-on.

That was enough reason for him to be annihilated by the breath.

[Die.]

Kaiselin opened his huge mouth.

Taehyun also seemed to have made up his mind and unleashed all his power.

"I want to tear you apart piece by piece myself, but… I'll trust you once. Original."

The inner world began to shake.

The desert-like ground cracked, and the doors disappeared one by one.

Kwaaaaaa.

The magic power of Devour filled the space.

Kaiselin's breath was released at the same time.

"Get out of my world. Lizard."

The two forces collided.

The inner world was filled with red light.

At that moment.

Taehyun opened his eyes, holding his throbbing head.

It was about a minute after Kaiselin entered Taehyun's inner world.

“Keuk….”

Drip.

Blood flowed from his eyes.

Devour, which had been wrapped around his body, was released due to lack of magic power.

Taehyun hurriedly checked the magic power in the status window.

His fatigue was at its limit and his magic power was at the bottom.

He was not just any awakened person, but a national-level player.

That such a person would faint from offsetting a monster's skill.

Who would believe that?

Pfft.

He laughed without realizing it.

Come to think of it, ever since he regressed, he had been in this state whenever he met a dragon.

'Am I going to die in a place like this….'

He had not yet become the best as a player.

He had not avenged Asmodeus, who had taken his life.

He had not found out about the 'King' who had regressed him.

There were still many things to achieve and many things to find out.

'I've shown an unsightly appearance.'

Taehyun wiped the blood flowing from his eyes and got up.

There was a man in front of him looking at him with empty eyes.

Red Dragon Kaiselin.

Seeing him frozen like a stone statue, it seemed that the pain he was experiencing was not entirely useless.

In any case, he had succeeded in creating a single gap.

Taehyun hurriedly took out a potion from his bag.

Now there weren't many contents inside, so he could grab it right away.

He put two potions in his waist and poured the remaining one straight into his throat.

'There are only two magic power potions left….'

It was the deep abyss where anything could happen.

If he couldn't even use his skills, he wouldn't last even a day.

So.

'I'll take the chance now.'

Taehyun reached out to Kaiselin, who was standing blankly.

The magic power amplification stone had expired and he had fallen to A-rank.

But it would be enough to devour a defenseless dragon.

Just as he was about to use Devour while checking the rapidly rising magic power.

[Kuaaaaa!! How dare you…!!]

Kaiselin, who had not moved, emitted Dragon Fear with a roar.

Taehyun instinctively threw himself.

Even though he avoided a direct hit, he felt like he was being torn to pieces.

'Tsk… he woke up already. But I bought enough time.'

Taehyun moved his feet quickly, looking at the magic power that had risen about halfway.

Now that he had woken up, using Devour was not a good option.

'I want to move on to Plan B right away, but.'

That wasn't easy either.

It was because of the meteor falling overhead.

Meteor, which is treated as an S-rank skill among awakened people.

'Save magic power.'

He couldn't waste even 1 point of magic power anymore.

Fortunately, the randomly falling meteors were not impossible to avoid.

Kaiselin saw Taehyun moving around and cursed.

He was so excited that his control of magic power was not precise.

[Insignificant being dares…!!]

Wyrm-class Dragon Kaiselin.

He did not hide the hot temper of the Red race and exploded his magic power.

Bang. Bang. Bang. Kwaang.

A huge crater was created where the meteor fell.

Taehyun barely passed through the space between them.

[Use it again!! Bring 'that guy' before me!!]

The tower, which only had its outer shell, shook at Kaiselin's shout.

The dragon people who had been teleported outside the tower bowed their heads in fear.

Because they knew that if they angered their master any more, they would not be safe either.

[You rat!!!]

Kwaaaaaang!!

'Why is this crazy dragon suddenly like this.'

Taehyun, who did not understand what Kaiselin was saying, threw himself again.

He saw that the explosion had created a hole in the solid tower.

The hundreds of monsters bowing their heads outside were a bonus.

There was no room to escape.

Following 'Meteor', 'Fire Tornado', 'Hell Fire', and 'Fire Burst' aimed at Taehyun one after another.

All of them had a power far exceeding the S-rank according to human standards.

[You!! Where are you going to play your tricks again!!]

Whirr.

Bang. Bang. Kwaang. Kwaaang.

The place where he stood even for a moment disappeared as if it had been annihilated.

Before he knew it, Taehyun had come down to the 10th floor as if he was being chased.

[How long are you going to run away!! Bring that guy out again!!]

'Why is that guy so angry? And who is that guy….'

Taehyun, who didn't know what had happened in the inner world, couldn't understand the reaction.

The raging attack subsided only after 3 minutes.

[Hehehe… Keuheuhe… I see.]

Kaiselin, who had suddenly stopped attacking, laughed.

“…….”

[It's not that you don't take it out, but that you can't take it out. You insignificant thing.]

“You've been talking nonsense since earlier.”

Taehyun, who had stopped, took a deep breath.

His magic power had already been filled a long time ago.

It was just that there was not enough 'gap' to use the skill.

'The moment that guy gathers magic power again is the opportunity.'

Taehyun calmed his pounding heart and aimed for the timing.

Meanwhile, Kaiselin was approaching while laughing like a crazy person.

[Ah… what a disgrace. This Kaiselin is excited against a measly being.]

Step by step.

[I've decided. You measly being in a human shell. Your spirit will be my experimental subject, and your magic power will be my meal.]

Taehyun, who was about 10 steps away from him, had a cold look in his eyes.

Kaiselin watched Taehyun and waited for the moment.

[Your body will be reborn as a dragon person. And I will be your master.]

Magic power erupted from Kaiselin's body.

Inferno.

His magic power began to form a huge sun.

Magic power corresponding to at least SS-rank was detected.

Taehyun finally unleashed his magic power.

“Stop talking nonsense. You crazy lizard.”

Ting.

[The skill Queen's Man (A) has been activated.]

The Tower of Dragon People, which has now become a pit of fire.

The Queen was summoned there.

Skill 'Queen's Man'.

Rozaria, the Queen of Succubi and called Succubus Queen.

The power to summon her.

Taehyun knows Rozaria's power better than anyone else.

Even so.

The reason why he did not use it even after exceeding the minimum activation condition of 200 Demonic Power was for two reasons.

The first was that summoning skills require not only Demonic Power but also additional magic power.

Demonic Power.

In other words, Taehyun's calculation is that if only 200 is consumed as necessary magic power, 50 magic power is additionally required to maintain the summon.

The second is loss of control due to skill runaway.

Rozaria is a monster that Taehyun cannot properly deal with even in normal condition.

What if she uses her proper power?

If he loses control even on Earth by any chance.

No one knew what disaster would occur.

'Now is not the time to worry about both risks.'

Taehyun smiled at the Queen visible in the afterglow of magic power.

"Rozaria. It's been a while."

He felt dizzy as a large amount of magic power drained.

Even so, he could definitely feel the presence of the opponent.

Rozaria opened her mouth without even turning her head.

[Contractor. I thought you were finally calling me… it's quite an interesting situation.]

Rozaria's red eyes turned to Kaiselin in front of her.

Red hair and red eyes.

Even if he polymorphed, he couldn't hide the fishy smell of the dragon.

Kaiselin frowned at the suddenly appeared presence.

He was secretly hoping that it was the guy from the inner world.

[You're putting up a pathetic struggle. With a lowly succubus….]

[Hoo. Looking closely, he's a Wyrm-class. What a cute child.]

Rozaria interrupted Kaiselin and made a girlish expression.

At that sight, Dragon Fear was emitted from Kaiselin's body.

[What?!! How dare a vulgar succubus….]

[I needed a pet to guard the castle gate.]

[…….]

“…….”

Kaiselin and Taehyun lost their words at her words.

But she didn't seem to care.

[This is good.]

She just smiled.

Episode 103

Kaiselin's fury finally exploded.

Even among the arrogant dragons, he was known as a Red Dragon with a quick temper.

He had lived in his lair, modified into a tower, for a thousand years.

The surrounding monsters were terrified by his aura and didn't even dare to approach.

[How dare… how dare….]

In just one day, he had encountered two beings who looked down on him.

It was only natural that his strong pride would explode.

Kiiiiiiing.

Unable to contain his anger, Dragon Fear spread in all directions.

Even though he had consumed a considerable amount of power in the mental world, it was still an unbearable force.

"Kugh…."

He didn't have the余裕 to defend himself, as he was busy maintaining the summon.

Taehyun, who received the energy with his bare body, clutched his neck.

Ulk.

A handful of blood was spat out.

'I'm going to die. At this rate…'

Unlike Taehyun, who was suffering from the pain of being slashed all over,

[Oh my. He's a bit cute, probably because he's a Red Dragon.]

Rosaria still had the expression of looking at the dog next door.

[HOW DARE YOU!!!]

If it was a provocation, it was successful.

Kaiselin gestured angrily, and Inferno began to fall.

Kugugugung.

Inferno.

A decisive skill created by the Red Dragon Kaiselin by pouring in 20% of his magic power.

As the giant sun fell, the surroundings became as bright as the dawn of a sunrise.

Chiiiiik.

Smoke rose from the tower as the temperature increased.

When Inferno had descended to the 30th floor,

[Oh dear. It's a bit too bright.]

Rosaria lightly waved her hand.

Hwoong.

With just that, a whirlwind arose.

No, it was too huge to be called a whirlwind.

'Tornado…'

Taehyun opened his mouth slightly at the unbelievable sight.

Dozens of tornadoes collided with the falling Inferno.

That wasn't the end of it.

Pazzzzzzzzzzz.

Chiiiiiiik.

'It's not exploding?'

The tornadoes wrapped around Inferno as if to support it.

Then, Inferno, which seemed to melt everything, gradually moved back to the upper part of the tower.

The surrounding temperature dropped as a bonus.

[……!!]

Kaiselin had an unbelievable expression.

The power didn't decrease just because he was in a polymorphed state.

No, before that.

Who could generate that much magic power just by waving their arm?

[Could it be… an Ancient-class?]

Kaiselin's expression quickly hardened.

The next stage he was looking at, beyond the Warm-class Dragon.

The realm of limitation that only a few dragons of all colors reached: Ancient.

[This is absurd. How can a mere Succubus have this much power….]

Kaiselin stopped talking and finally scanned Rosaria properly.

Wings of a bat larger than a Grand Succubus. Two horns. And most of all, below her legs.

He could see a giant tentacle that he could only recognize by concentrating his magic power.

Only then could he understand.

[I see… you are the Queen of Nightmares.]

Kaiselin's expression slowly distorted.

He seemed to have heard that sometimes there were humans who borrowed the power of others.

Beings who were weak in their own power but professionally contracted with stronger monsters.

Kaiselin's eyes turned to Taehyun, who was spitting blood.

He had insignificant power.

If he had climbed the tower in a normal way, he would have been defeated by the Wyverns on the 90th floor.

[But I admit it.]

Even though he was caught off guard, it was the first time he had been pushed this far.

Whether it was a 'human' or a 'monster'.

[Ahahaha. That's right, I am your new master.]

Rosaria said, laughing loudly.

[Shut your filthy mouth!! How dare you act like a queen in front of me!!]

Kaiselin shot Dragon Fear at her.

But Rosaria was already ignoring him.

[The name… yes. Red Bull would be good. You will also like my surname.]

Rosaria burst into a moan as if she was imagining that.

[A lowly species doesn't know its place. It reminds me of what the Lord said.]

Rosaria showed interest for the first time at the word Lord.

[Oh ho. So you were Gold's favorite. Tell me. What did he say?]

[Hehe. The weakest and most pathetic queen among the Archdukes. He said that in the not-too-distant future, you will be destined to become a plaything of our Dragon race.]

[…….]

[I'll show you. My full power.]

The moment Kaiselin was engulfed in red light.

His body returned to its original giant form.

Flap. Flap. Flap. Flap.

Hwoong. Hwooong. Hwooooong.

He flew towards the top floor of the tower at a speed that didn't match his size.

[You were a talkative child. I don't like those who bite their master.]

Kaiselin's giant body had already reached the 100th floor.

The magic power of flames gathered in his open mouth.

It was the Dragon race's specialty: Breath.

"Rosaria."

[I know. You don't have much magic power left, do you?]

Taehyun nodded.

Along with the rapidly draining magic power.

'My mental power is also at its limit.'

His mind was collapsing just from maintaining her summon.

It was a risk that Taehyun hadn't even thought about.

'At this rate, 50 seconds… but if she uses her skill like before…'

[DIE!!!]

At that moment, Kaiselin, who had gathered enough magic power, shot his Breath.

From the 100th floor to the 10th floor.

There was nowhere to escape.

"Rosaria!!!"

At the same time as Taehyun's scream, she waved her hand once again.

A whirlwind made of magic power raged.

Kwaaaaang!!!

Kugugugugung.

An impact that was on a different dimension than the one that offset Inferno shook the tower.

[This is the limit with the contractor's magic power.]

Rosaria muttered as if she was disappointed.

Because she knew that Taehyun was barely able to maintain the summon.

'20 seconds.'

Drip.

Blood flowed from Taehyun's nose.

Just from Rosaria using her skill just now, the time was drastically reduced.

"Just… make him fall to the ground."

[I understand. I'm just disappointed that I couldn't help you properly.]

Unlike Rosaria, who was disappointed, Kaiselin roared roughly at the fact that his Breath was blocked.

The moment he tried to prepare his Breath again.

Rosaria waved her hand once more.

It was instantaneous.

Swish. Swish.

Sharply sharpened magic power cut through Kaiselin's wings.

Kuuuung!!!

Kaiselin's giant body crashed to the 10th floor.

[Don't die. Contractor.]

Chuuk.

Ssssss.

Rosaria kissed Taehyun on the cheek and disappeared like smoke.

Only then did Taehyun let out a rough breath.

"Haa…."

The pain that had been rummaging through his head disappeared when Rosaria disappeared.

The reversing blood subsided.

"Who's dying?"

Taehyun poured another magic potion into his mouth.

The magic power that was close to 0 began to fill up quickly.

[Kuaaaaa!!! These damn bastards…!!!]

The deranged Kaiselin released killing intent mixed with fear.

It was a power that would have made him clutch his neck if it was before, but.

Taehyun could clearly feel it.

"You. You've become weaker."

He lost his wings, lost his reason, and even lost the special nature of the Dragon race.

'At this point, he's just a normal SS-rank monster… it's worth a try.'

[Krereureuk….]

[My lord….]

[The lord….]

The Wyverns who were watching this from outside the half-destroyed tower repeatedly bowed their heads at Kaiselin's scream.

All of them were S-rank monsters.

The fear that had been branded into their bodies by Kaiselin's training was revived.

[I'll kill you.]

[I'll tear you apart.]

[I'll chew you up.]

[I'll melt your soul.]

Contrary to what Kaiselin was shouting.

[The 'Power of the Dragon' has weakened. Strength increases by 5.]

[The 'Power of the Dragon' has weakened. Stamina increases by 5.]

[The 'Power of the Dragon' has weakened. Speed increases by 5.]

[The 'Power of the Dragon' has weakened. Magic power increases by 5.]

[The 'Power of the Dragon' is in effect. Resists with a mysterious power. Resistance successful. Skill usage is possible. Available skills: 10/10]

Smirk.

The corners of Taehyun's mouth went up.

The sealed stats and skills were returning.

Kaiselin, who belatedly noticed the situation, gritted his teeth.

He recalled that Dragons who lost their wings underwent regression.

[Th…th…!!!]

The spring of regeneration in the 100th floor, his hiding place.

If he had that, he would be able to restore his torn wings.

Kaiselin quickly polymorphed and floated his body.

It was a skill that Awakened called Levitation.

But.

Tting.

[Skill King of Knights' Aura (A) has been activated. Targeting.]

Kugugugung.

30th floor.

It was magic power that clumsily imitated his fear.

Kaiselin frowned as he soared quickly.

[How dare you with this….]

Kaiselin ignored it and focused on flying.

Right now, restoring his torn wings was the priority.

"Not yet."

[Skill Chains of Binding (A) has been activated. Targeting.]

50th floor.

Chwareureureuk. Chwareureureuk.

The materialized chains wrapped around Kaiselin's arms and legs.

[Just….]

Deudeudeudeuk. Deudeudeudeudeuk.

Cracks appeared in the chains at Kaiselin's struggle.

60th floor.

[Skill Paralysis (A) has been activated. Targeting.]

Uduk.

Finally, Kaiselin's movement stopped.

[You truly…!!]

"I guess it's worth a try after all."

Taehyun raised the corners of his mouth and drank a healing potion and a fatigue potion.

He regained his composure.

Dragon Fear was still being emitted, but he no longer felt the same pressure as before.

Taehyun took out Reddick.

Tting.

[Skill World of Silence (A) has been activated. Not targeting. Expanding the range. Magic consumption is accelerating.]

[The proficiency of Skill World of Silence (A) is increasing.]

Hwaaaaaaaak.

Tting.

[Skill Stone Skin (A) has been activated.]

[Unique Skill Predation (A) has been activated. Targeting.]

"Let's end this. Lizard."

Crimson magic power bloomed from Taehyun's body.

And.

Ssssss.

He quietly disappeared into the darkness.

A safety zone located in the depths of the Abyss.

As the friendly match was coming to an end, two groups of players were growling at each other.

It was a group led by China's National Power Jang Linfeng and Japan's National Power Nakata Shinji.

"Hehe. Did you enjoy the hunt?"

Jang Linfeng asked Nakata Shinji, who was at the front, mockingly.

"……."

Nakata Shinji ignored him without answering.

'Is this it?'

Less than an hour remained until the end of the 7th day.

He had been hunting S-rank monsters non-stop until now, but in the end, he couldn't overtake China.

But Japan didn't intend to take first place at all by pushing themselves too hard in the first place.

Nakata Shinji's unique poker face remained the same.

'It's enough just to push out New Korea.'

The friendly match became an unexpected overpace due to Kim Taehyun's performance.

As a result, on the 7th day, New Korea was lagging behind in 3rd place.

'They must be preparing an international lawsuit in Japan right now.'

'It will take time, but eventually they will get the championship title back.'

Smirk.

The corners of Nakata Shinji's mouth went up.

At that time, the warp gate manager of the safety zone approached.

Gulp.

He swallowed as he saw the fierce killing intent of the two groups and opened his mouth.

"Um… the gate to Hong Kong is ready now. Which one of you wants to go first…."

The man glanced at the two National Powers.

It was an atmosphere where it wouldn't be strange if his head flew off if he made a mistake.

As expected.

"We'll go first."

"No, the great nation goes first."

Nakada Shinji and Zhang Linfeng glared at each other, growling. Episode 104

Safety Zone located in the depths of the Abyss.

Two groups of players exuded a murderous aura as if they were about to draw their weapons at any moment.

It was China, led by Zhang Linfeng, and Japan, led by Nakada Shinji.

"Are you trying to start something here?"

Nakada Shinji said, not avoiding Zhang Linfeng's momentum.

His whole body was tingling, but there was no need to back down.

It would be the same for the other side.

"Heh heh. A brat who doesn't know his place."

A blood sword was created in Zhang Linfeng's hand.

Similarly, Nakada Shinji reached for Byakuya.

Drawing the sword.

With a single swing, he was confident that he could cut through the blood sword in Zhang Linfeng's hand and his neck at the same time.

"Shinji-nim..."

At that moment, Ishii Satoshi, who was watching from behind, quietly called out to him.

He didn't open his mouth, but his expression said it all.

A battle here is not allowed.

You can't even get hurt.

It was the same for Takato Satomi, another S-rank player in Japan.

"Hoo."

Nakada Shinji exhaled and released the hand holding Byakuya.

'I was reckless.'

He had been in this state ever since the Saintess had become like that.

An excited state unlike his usual self.

'If we fight here, the damage to our side would be significant. There's no need to reduce our forces any further.'

Once his thoughts were organized, his actions were quick.

"Zhang Linfeng. I'll concede today. But in the end, we will be the ones laughing."

"Heh heh heh. All talk. You should know you're only alive thanks to your subordinates."

"......"

"It's a good day. I'll show some generosity as well."

"Hmph."

Zhang Linfeng released the blood sword, and his group, including Zhang Shuwei, followed suit.

They disappeared through the warp gate in an instant.

The person in charge approached Nakada Shinji with an awkward expression.

"We'll prepare immediately so you can depart in 5 minutes."

"Please do."

While the warp gate was being recharged with magic, Nakada Shinji looked around.

There weren't many people since it was located in the depths of the Abyss.

He thought of the man who had summoned him to the Abyss.

'Kim Taehyun. Is that all you are?'

Saintess Yoshikawa Tsurara.

He came to the Abyss for her revenge, but the target was missing.

It was ridiculous.

'The guy who defeated her is only this much...'

At that moment.

Kugugugugugung.

A huge magic explosion was felt in the distance.

"......!!"

Nakada Shinji and all the players in the safety zone drew their weapons.

It was an instinctive action due to the magic wave that was beyond imagination.

"The magic power... to be felt even this far..."

"Huh... what is this..."

"Shinji-nim. Something doesn't feel right. Let's go back to Hong Kong quickly."

"I will."

Just in time, the person in charge informed him that the next gate was ready.

Nakada Shinji and his group boarded the warp gate.

'Are the monsters fighting over territory? Even so, this much power...'

He shook his head lightly.

He thought that the depths were teeming with unimaginable monsters.

Capital Hospital located in Shin-Hanguk.

There, Yoo Ah-young and Park Sung-jin were talking.

Park Sung-jin, known as the best player in Shin-Hanguk.

He was wearing a patient gown, which didn't suit him.

Seeing that, Ah-young nodded.

"So that's what happened."

"We came here first... I'm sorry."

Park Sung-jin said with a dark expression.

It was because of the guilt of leaving Taehyun in the Tower of Yongin.

"It's okay. Player Kim Taehyun would have been aware of the danger before entering."

"......"

Park Sung-jin couldn't raise his head even at Ah-young's words.

No matter how much it was the best thing to do.

No matter how much Kwak Si-yang's condition was urgent and they couldn't wait.

It was a fact that they coldly abandoned the person who came to save them.

Ah-young sighed softly as she looked at Park Sung-jin.

It was necessary to change the subject.

"More than that, Player Seo Han-gil isn't the only one who betrayed Shin-Hanguk."

"......?"

In that moment, one man came to Park Sung-jin's mind.

"Player Jang Jin-soo. He also received money from the Chinese Player Association."

"......"

Two national representatives had chosen the path of treason.

As the leader of the team, how could he not feel ashamed?

Even so, Park Sung-jin had to ask.

Why didn't they tell them?

"It was Taehyun's request, no, Kim Taehyun's request. He said that if we carelessly touched it in the current situation, Player Park Sung-jin and Player Kwak Si-yang in the Abyss would be in danger. He said we should ask about the crime after the friendly match."

"......"

"Of course, it was a plan that was carried out under the assumption that Seo Han-gil didn't have the guts to harm two people with S-rank advanced skills."

"That's not wrong."

In fact, until the emergence of the extraordinary powerhouse Zhang Linfeng, Seo Han-gil had faithfully carried out his duties as a national representative.

"So. There's no need to feel too guilty."

"...Thank you."

Park Sung-jin nodded at Ah-young's comfort.

"More than that, please focus on recovery. If the news of Guild Leader Kwon Kang-hyuk, Guild Leader Kwak Si-yang, and Player Park Sung-jin's injuries are known, the powerhouses won't stand still."

"I will. How's Si-yang?"

"Guild Leader Kwak Si-yang... his condition is a bit serious. He went into a skill frenzy while seriously injured, and then he overused his skills again with that body..."

"Is his life... not in danger?"

Park Sung-jin's face darkened again.

If he had been a little stronger, Kwak Si-yang wouldn't have had to overdo it that much.

"They say it will take at least two months to recover. But more important than that..."

"It's the regeneration of his arm."

"Yes. As you know, we are also in contact with the Saintess regarding Guild Leader Kwon Kang-hyuk's case. But..."

"But?"

Park Sung-jin urged for an answer.

Certainly, with the power of the Saintess.

'He can fully recover without risk.'

Knowing that, Ah-young frowned.

"All the hotlines we had with her have been cut off. It seems like they deliberately cut them off, but... I can't figure out the reason at all..."

Ah-young didn't mention Taehyun.

There's no point in talking about Taehyun, whose life or death is unknown.

"That's surprising. For the Guild Leader of Nightwalker to say that."

"Oh my. It's not like we know everything?"

"If it's the regeneration of his arm, let's find out slowly. Si-yang won't fall below S-rank intermediate level right away either."

There will be some inconvenience, but the mage class is about cultivating the mind rather than the body anyway.

So even if he loses one arm, his skills won't decrease significantly.

"And me too. I think I've finally caught a clue to overcome the wall."

Park Sung-jin held up the one remaining arm.

The feeling of cutting through the wall that was blocking him.

The moment he swung his sword back then was still vivid.

"Could it be...?"

An S-rank advanced player who has reached his limit.

For him to have caught a clue means S-rank supreme.

In other words, it means he has caught a clue to becoming a national-level powerhouse.

"Yeah. I wouldn't have been able to overcome it if it wasn't for that kid."

Park Sung-jin smiled bitterly.

"The Association President would be happy to hear that news. I wonder what that guy is doing right now..."

"Deputy Chief Go will bring him back safely. Let's believe that."

At that moment, one of Ah-young's subordinates entered the hospital room.

"Guild Leader. It's almost time for the friendly match deadline."

"Has it already been that long? Well, I think it will only make me sick to my stomach... but I have to check the results."

With those words, Ah-young turned on the television on the wall.

Representatives and Association Presidents from each country were gathering in Hong Kong.

[Asia Player Friendly Match. The grand journey is coming to an end!! The fierce point competition for the top spot...]

"I wanted to blow away all those annoying old men this time."

"I agree."

Ah-young and Park Sung-jin said as they looked at the Chinese Player Association President Zheng Zhi and the Japanese Player Association President Kubota Masataka on the screen.

Ji Jin-hee with a stiff expression could be seen next to them.

"Sigh... our Association President. He's holding back again."

Ah-young sighed and had a bitter expression, when another subordinate came in.

"Guild Leader!! Urgent news!!"

"Haa... what is it this time? Did the remnants of the Triads show up or something?"

"That's not it!!"

With those words, the subordinate looked at Park Sung-jin.

He was asking if it was okay to open the information here.

"It's okay. Tell me."

"A little while ago, we received a call from the American Blazer Guild. They said that there was a Shin-Hanguk player who used their country's warp gate in the depths. That person possessed an S-rank license..."

"Could it be...!!"

"Who is it?!!"

Before the man could finish his sentence, Park Sung-jin and Yoo Ah-young shouted at the same time.

A moment later.

At the name that came out of the man's mouth, Ah-young and Park Sung-jin's eyes widened.

Hong Kong.

Numerous reporters had gathered at the same place where the opening ceremony was held.

The Asia Player Friendly Match was being broadcast all over the world.

Reporters from all over the world had been dispatched to witness the final stage.

Their shutters were directed at the Association Presidents, who were each making different expressions.

There were those who were satisfied with the better-than-expected results, and those who were maintaining a poker face with the adequate results.

Among them, there were those who were particularly noticeable.

The Hong Kong and Taiwan Player Association Presidents, who had lost all their representatives and had a heartbroken expression.

And the Shin-Hanguk, China, and Japan Association Presidents, who had fierce competition until the last day.

Quiet sparks were flying in their positions, where they were standing together depending on their ranking.

"As expected of China. We can't beat this volume offensive."

Japanese Association President Kubota Masataka said, acting regretful.

Zheng Zhi received those words with a kind smile.

"You flatter us. We also lost two generals, so it's hard to just be happy."

"Still, it would have been difficult to create these results without the leadership of President Zheng Zhi, who is called the hero of the continent."

"A true great power will run on its own even without a head."

Words with hidden meaning.

They were provoking each other by throwing meaningful words.

Ji Jin-hee, who had been quietly watching that, clicked his tongue inwardly.

'To be doing politics even after coming all the way here. It's ridiculous.'

China, who illegally acquired points, or Japan, who turned a blind eye to it even though they knew.

Sly snakes or foxes.

In Ji Jin-hee's eyes, they were all the same beasts.

The world's beasts (禽獸) who were always looking for an opportunity to invade other countries.

Seeing those hypocritical people, Ji Jin-hee couldn't help but sigh.

'Kim Taehyun. If only that kid was here, I wouldn't have had to see this...'

Taehyun was no longer just an S-rank player or a national representative.

Among those fierce national-level powerhouses.

He had put Shin-Hanguk in the lead in the friendly match with his own strength alone.

That's why.

On one hand, while he was worried, he hoped that he would continue his performance in the Abyss as well.

He hoped that he would suppress China and Japan's arrogance and lead Shin-Hanguk to victory.

'No. What am I thinking...'

Ji Jin-hee shook his head at the thoughts that were unknowingly spreading.

Taehyun was also a properly registered player in the Association.

For the president of the association to rely on such a child instead of helping him.

It was an unlike himself.

'I wonder if Deputy Chief Go is finding him well...'

Go Tae-wook, who was one of the top talents in the Association along with Park Sung-jin.

He was now a proper S-rank intermediate player, so he would definitely not come back empty-handed.

'Please... may God protect that child.'

He was praying for Taehyun's well-being to a god he didn't even believe in, when the warp gate area became noisy.

Episode 105

The surroundings became noisy.

Representatives from various countries, who had been scattered throughout the Abyss and Asia, were returning.

Before we knew it, only 30 minutes remained until the point conversion deadline.

The protagonist was already determined.

"It's Zhang Linfeng!!"

"Mr. Zhang Linfeng!! Can we get an interview?!"

Five minutes after Zhang Linfeng arrived.

"Oh...oh!! Nakata Shinji is here too!!"

"Could they have been hunting in the same area?"

"Wow. Look at that murderous aura...."

"This point conversion is going to be interesting."

Two players representing China and Japan.

National-level players who started with five members each, now only two remaining.

The enthusiasm to cover them was intense, but they headed straight to the appraisal team.

Unlike the appraisal of fiends, the appraisal of monsters is handled by those who have awakened specialized skills.

For the past six days, experts under the protection of the appraisal team had been handling mana stones privately.

However, on the 7th day, point conversions were to take place in a public setting where everyone could watch.

Experts were already on-site to calculate the final points for China and Japan.

They knew that if the competition for the lead was fierce, players would arrive on the last day, close to the deadline.

In order of arrival, China's appraisal began first.

Zhang Xuewei turned over the infinite backpack he was carrying.

Rumble.

A and S-grade mana stones piled up in heaps.

"Wow... how many is that?"

"As expected of China. They must have taken down S-grade monsters like they were orcs."

Even with ten experts rushing in, the appraisal took a considerable amount of time.

"The appraisal is complete. We will convert it to points immediately."

At the appraisal team's words, Zhang Linfeng, Zhang Xuewei, and Wei Hanchao stepped back with triumphant expressions.

Reporters captured the scene with their cameras.

"Is it impossible for Japan to catch up to China after all?"

"You never know. With that Sword Demon...."

Shortly after.

When Ishii Satoshi turned over his infinite backpack, even more mana stones poured out than China's.

What was unique was that the mana stones were glowing black.

"These are mana stones from monsters in a colony."

As Takano Satomi added, the appraisers exclaimed in admiration.

A colony.

That meant a habitat of insect-type monsters that form groups in the deep Abyss.

Even the smallest colony has at least ten S-grade monsters moving together.

In the case of black colony monsters, the mana stone points were usually evaluated about 1.2 times higher than usual.

This was because the value of the mana stones themselves was high, but also because of the extermination advantage.

The points were immediately added to the real-time status board displayed on the large screen.

Click. Click. Click.

"Wow... it was really neck and neck until the very end."

"Japan must be feeling bad about this?"

<Asia Player Friendship Competition>

1st place: China (Fiend: 1700P Monster: 3100P Total: 4800P) Missing: 2

2nd place: Japan (Fiend: 1600P Monster: 2700P Total: 4300P) Retired: 2

3rd place: New Korea (Fiend: 3100P Monster: 1000P Total: 4100P) Missing: 1 Retired: 2 Deceased: 2

4th place: Turkey (Fiend: 550P Monster: 800P Total: 1350P) Retired: 1

5th place: Qatar (Fiend: 520P Monster: 700P Total: 1220P)

6th place: Philippines (Fiend: 440P Monster: 700P Total: 1140P) Retired: 1

7th place: United Arab Emirates (Fiend: 430P Monster: 550P Total: 980P) Retired: 1

8th place: Singapore (Fiend: 310P Monster: 470P Total: 780P) Retired: 1

9th place: Hong Kong (Fiend: 70P Monster: 210P Total: 280P) Deceased: 5

10th place: Taiwan (Fiend: 40P Monster: 220P Total: 260P) Deceased: 5

"Hoh. That Sword Demon guy. He played quite the trick."

Zhang Linfeng scoffed after checking the results.

It wasn't that he was careless.

He just didn't prefer to be desperate for points like the guys from the small countries he thought were below him.

'As expected, Kim Taehyun. It was a good thing I took care of that guy.'

Zhang Linfeng accepted the result calmly with a bitter smile.

Except for Qatar's ranking change by hunting S-grade fiends and monsters, everything else was as expected.

Meanwhile, congratulations and condolences were exchanged among the association presidents.

"In the end, we couldn't turn it around."

"As expected of the Sword Demon. If that friend had entered the Abyss earlier, we would have been doomed."

Zheng Zhi received Kubota Masataka's words of regret with a smile.

However, they were both thinking different things inside.

'I need to proceed with the lawsuit quickly.'

'Fortunately, I'll take Hong Kong as planned.'

Hiding their own agendas, they belatedly looked at Ji Jinhui.

If Kim Taehyun hadn't gone missing, the current rankings might have been reversed.

They sent Ji Jinhui their courtesy, or rather, mockery disguised as courtesy.

Ji Jinhui expressed his gratitude with formalities, not hiding his bitter smile.

'In the end, 3rd place....'

It was the expected ranking, but it was still regrettable.

'As long as Taehyun is safe, nothing else matters.'

Ji Jinhui calmly accepted the situation, praying that Go Taewook would bring Taehyun back safely.

[Asia Player Friendship Competition. 15 minutes until the end. Representatives from each country and association presidents, please take your places.]

The voice of the man in charge of the event echoed around.

Knowing that no one else would be coming, they were about to proceed with the next schedule.

President Zheng Zhi headed towards the winning country's podium with a satisfied expression.

At that moment.

Whoo-oong.

One of the warp gates connected to the deep Abyss began to activate.

Everyone's attention turned to the gate that suddenly activated.

"......?"

"Huh? Didn't all the attendees arrive?"

"That's right. Except for the missing...."

"Wait. Speaking of the missing...."

Everyone's attention was focused on the warp gate.

A man walked out from there.

Hundreds of people gathered to watch the final moments of the Friendship Competition.

In addition, billions of people watching the broadcast relayed by their cameras.

Receiving that attention.

Taehyun, in shabby clothes, walked out.

"K, Kim Taehyun!!"

"Unbelievable!!"

"Hey, turn the camera!!"

"Focus the camera on the gate!!"

The area was abuzz with the appearance of Taehyun, who had been reported missing.

This was the same for the players.

In particular, Zhang Linfeng and Nakata Shinji showed a noticeable reaction.

'How did that guy...!!'

'Kim Taehyun...!!'

Leaving their gazes behind, Taehyun walked towards where Association President Ji Jinhui was.

His appearance was shabby, but his eyes were as sharp as ever.

"I don't think I'm too late."

"Taehyun...."

Ji Jinhui teared up and hugged Taehyun tightly.

"I'm sorry for making you worry."

"No. It's because I, I wasn't good enough that you guys...."

"Let's get the mana stones appraised first."

"You mean...?"

At Ji Jinhui's question, Taehyun held up the infinite backpack.

"Yes. I brought quite a few."

Smile.

Taehyun smiled confidently.

Receiving the attention of reporters, players, and association presidents, Taehyun headed towards the appraisers.

"I'm here to get mana stones appraised."

Taehyun turned over the infinite backpack.

Rumble rumble rumble.

Hundreds of mana stones poured out.

"Good heavens...."

"Are you saying he caught all of those by himself?"

"I can't believe it...."

It had been announced that Jang Jinsoo and Seo Hanggil had died, and Park Seongjin and Kwak Siyang had retired due to injuries.

So that only left Taehyun alone to catch all the owners of those mana stones.

At that moment.

Bang.

Suddenly, an explosion occurred.

Zhang Linfeng, who had been watching all this, released his magic power.

"What kind of trick is this?"

"Trick?"

Taehyun asked back with a look as if to say, what nonsense are you talking about?

"A missing guy suddenly comes back with hundreds of top-grade mana stones. Are you seriously expecting us to believe that? That's ridiculous."

Taehyun raised his lips into a smirk.

"Are you scared? That I might have conquered that tower?"

"Hey!! Stop talking nonsense and tell the truth!!"

"You're the one talking nonsense. The experts here will confirm when these mana stones were caught and who caught them."

Saying that, Taehyun looked at the ten appraisers.

They were already quickly appraising the mana stones that Taehyun had poured out.

"They're all g, genuine."

"Everything I've appraised so far has been S-grade or higher."

"I've also confirmed that the mana stones were extracted within the last 24 hours."

"The magic power remaining in the mana stones is identical to that registered to Player Kim Taehyun."

"No other magic power has been detected, Player Kim Taehyun."

They hadn't appraised all the mana stones yet.

But at least for now, they were revealing that Taehyun was the owner of the mana stones.

"Ha...."

At a glance, there seemed to be over a hundred.

If the value of those mana stones was recognized, the winning country was likely to change.

It wasn't just China that would be in trouble if that happened.

'We have to prevent those mana stones from being recognized as points.'

Otherwise, the plan to snatch the winning title away from Japan would definitely go up in smoke.

Kubota Masataka shouted loudly with magic power,

"It is unprecedented for a missing player to reappear, which means that the mana stones he brought are recognized!!"

Buzz buzz.

Amid the commotion, representatives belonging to China and Japan agreed with those words.

The remaining representatives from other countries were just watching the situation with interest.

"However!! It would be impolite to criticize a comrade who has returned beyond life and death!! I hereby request an emergency meeting to establish proper order!!"

Suddenly, the camera turned its attention to the ten association presidents.

The direction of the meeting was clear.

The Japanese association president, supported by the Chinese association president, refused to recognize Taehyun's mana stones, which had been missing.

And the association presidents of five countries who were reluctantly nodding their heads, afraid of being ostracized by the two countries.

Only Taiwan, Hong Kong, and New Korea stood firmly against their logic.

Association President Ji Jinhui raised his voice at the continuous unreasonable claims.

"What kind of dogshit logic is this!!"

"Hey, Association President Ji Jinhui. Isn't this an unprecedented event? It's a big issue to recognize all those mana stones."

Kubota Masataka said with an expression that he himself was also regretful.

It was a blatant display of shamelessness even though cameras from all over the world were watching.

Then Association President Zheng Zhi said with a satisfied expression.

"How about recognizing only one of the mana stones? The whole world is watching. Let's have a vote so that everyone can be convinced."

Association President Zheng Zhi and Association President Kubota Masataka made eye contact.

"A vote. That sounds good. Isn't that why we're here anyway?"

"That seems like a good idea."

"It's a live broadcast. We can't just keep showing this kind of appearance."

The attitude of the association presidents who agreed one after another made Ji Jinhui clench his fist.

But the trend had already been set.

No matter how much New Korea shouted that they couldn't accept it, it would only highlight a negative image worldwide.

'These... shameless bastards....'

The voting result was 7 to 3.

Taiwan and Hong Kong sided with New Korea.

The remaining five countries sided with China and Japan for the sake of their national interests.

Shortly after, an announcement was made that only one of the mana stones Taehyun had brought would be recognized.

Zhang Linfeng wore a bitter smile.

Just one.

That wouldn't be enough to catch up to China's points.

In the end, nothing would change.

'Kim Taehyun. This is the difference in national power. A difference that is hard for a small country like you to change.'

Unlike Zhang Linfeng, who was mocking him.

Taehyun, the person involved, had an indifferent face.

"One... then I guess this is the one I should choose."

Taehyun took out a new mana stone from his pocket.

It was bigger than the others.

It was a red mana stone that seemed to burn at any moment.

Episode 106

All eyes were on the magic stone that had emerged from Tae-hyun's arms.

Jang Linpeng and Nakata Shinji were no exception.

Even with a generous estimate, an S-rank monster's magic stone wouldn't fetch more than 200 points.

But...

It couldn't be, but...

What if it was an SS-rank monster's magic stone?

'That's impossible.'

Nakata Shinji shook his head slightly.

The Kraken of the Mana Sea was the only SS-rank monster known to the public so far.

Just as there was an insurmountable wall between A-rank and S-rank monsters,

An even greater wall existed between S-rank and SS-rank.

The Kraken, which had been discovered a considerable time ago.

The fact that this monster of the deep sea had not yet been hunted was partly due to its inherent strength, but that was not the only reason.

National-level players who could easily take down S-rank monsters needed at least ten of their prideful colleagues to work together to face it.

'There's no way those self-important guys would go through such a troublesome ordeal.'

In terms of difficulty alone, 10,000 points wouldn't be too much to ask, but...

The goodwill competition was, after all, one of the tournaments that people all over the world could enjoy.

The formally stipulated points for the Kraken's magic stone were only 1,500 points.

Similarly, undiscovered SS-rank monsters were also valued at a similar level.

'It would be impossible for New Korea's power to catch the Kraken, but it's even more impossible for you to catch the Kraken alone.'

Jang Linpeng smirked.

He was convinced that the current rankings would not change after all.

Most of them were thinking similarly to Nakata Shinji and Jang Linpeng.

However, the appraisers who received the magic stone from Tae-hyun reacted strangely.

They shook their heads.

One appraiser who shook his head passed it to another appraiser, and that appraiser to yet another.

Their reactions were all the same.

"What is this..."

"Really... a Dragon's...?"

"If what I just measured is true... Heh..."

The reporters rushed to the appraisers, who were all wearing expressions of disbelief and letting out hollow laughs.

"Appraiser! Please say something!"

"What is the value of the magic stone?!"

"How many points is it worth?!"

"Is it a 200-point magic stone?"

"Is it perhaps a Hydra's magic stone?!"

"Could it be a Cerberus?!"

The reporters wondered if the appraisers might give them more than 200 points.

With that thought, they mentioned the best monsters they knew.

For example, Hydra and Cerberus, which are designated as S-rank, have two or more heads attached to one body.

So, they thought that more points might be measured depending on the situation.

Rules are rules.

Normally, it would be an absurd hypothesis.

But considering the unconventional actions Tae-hyun had shown so far, it didn't seem like it would end as just a hypothesis.

At the urging of the reporters, one appraiser opened his mouth.

Everyone fixed their gaze on the appraiser's mouth.

"It's not... anything like 200 points."

That was the beginning.

The appraisers opened their mouths as if they were taking turns in a relay.

Filled with embarrassment, admiration, and reverence.

"This is... a Dragon's magic stone."

"That's right. An existence on a different level from S-rank..."

"An SS-rank monster like the Kraken... No, it's a magic stone that contains a source perhaps even greater than that."

"……!!"

Everyone was speechless for a moment.

"Th-then...?"

The last appraiser took a deep breath and opened his mouth.

"If we were to assign points according to the stipulated points... it would be 1,500 points."

The impact of his words was enormous.

Representatives from each country. Reporters. Association President. Players.

Not only them, but everyone watching through the broadcast had their eyes wide open.

Only Tae-hyun recalled the fierce battle and smiled awkwardly.

<Asia Player Goodwill Competition - Final Tally>

1st Place. New Korea (Mana: 3100P, Monster: 2500P, Total: 5600P) Withdrawals: 2, Deaths: 2

2nd Place. China (Mana: 1700P, Monster: 3100P, Total: 4800P) Missing: 2

3rd Place. Japan (Mana: 1600P, Monster: 2700P, Total: 4300P) Withdrawals: 2

4th Place. Turkey (Mana: 550P, Monster: 800P, Total: 1350P) Withdrawal: 1

5th Place. Qatar (Mana: 520P, Monster: 700P, Total: 1220P)

6th Place. Philippines (Mana: 440P, Monster: 700P, Total: 1140P) Withdrawal: 1

7th Place. United Arab Emirates (Mana: 430P, Monster: 550P, Total: 980P) Withdrawal: 1

8th Place. Singapore (Mana: 310P, Monster: 470P, Total: 780P) Withdrawal: 1

9th Place. Hong Kong (Mana: 70P, Monster: 210P, Total: 280P) Deaths: 5

10th Place. Taiwan (Mana: 40P, Monster: 220P, Total: 260P) Deaths: 5

'New Korea's unbelievable comeback.'

'Kim Tae-hyun, becomes the world's first Dragon Slayer.'

'President of the US Player Association, interested in naturalizing Kim Tae-hyun.'

'European Union, wants to establish a new alliance with New Korea.'

'Another national-level player is born. Humanity's warriors are getting stronger.'

'New Korea's first national-level player. Is he still a teenager?'

'Japan and China's unfinished goodwill competition. Leading to international lawsuits. Expected exposés.'

'Ji Jin-hee's grand plan. Sweep of the Triads and victory in the goodwill competition. Killing two birds with one stone.'

'New Korea, becoming a clean zone from monsters and mana.'

'President Ji Jin-hee's approval rating rises sharply. Foreign media certain of his re-election.'

'Goodwill competition victory reward delivery. Scheduled to proceed within a week.'

'GGG Broadcasting Company. Kim Tae-hyun, the eventful life. Expresses intention to produce a documentary.'

'Association insider. Player Kim Tae-hyun is currently resting.'

'New Korea's best golden age since its founding. The most S-rank players ever held.'

'Living legend, Ji Jin-hee's leadership. Is the strong nation he dreams of currently in progress?'

With the first victory in a long time, New Korea was in a festive mood.

Because it was a reversal of fortune from a situation where 3rd place was almost certain, the reaction was hotter than ever.

The media rushed to it like it was a long-awaited piece of prey.

Everywhere you went, there was talk about Tae-hyun and the goodwill competition.

His house, the Player Association, Geon-guk High School, even the neighborhood where Tae-hyun used to live.

Reporters and sasaeng fans who had gathered to capture the traces with their cameras were camping out, but...

Tae-hyun, the person responsible for all these events, was nowhere to be seen, as always.

As if he had disappeared into the ground.

New Korea, Seoul.

In the Nightwalker's secret hideout in Yeouido, four men and women were talking.

Player Association President Ji Jin-hee.

Nightwalker Guild Leader Yoo Ah-young.

Go Tae-wook, who is considered the president's strategist.

And Tae-hyun, who has recently been named the most famous person in the world.

Four S-rank players had gathered, but the atmosphere was friendly.

"You can rest assured here. After all, it's the hideout of an information guild."

"It seems like a good place to spend time alone sometimes."

Tae-hyun said, leaning back on the plush sofa.

"Hehe~ I kept this place empty so I could come here alone with our Tae-hyun."

"……."

"Ahem. Let's stop the jokes there, Guild Leader Yoo Ah-young."

Go Tae-wook cleared his throat and changed the atmosphere.

Because everyone except Tae-hyun had their own work to do,

There was a limit to the time they could spend.

"No, Vice Chief Go. When else will we be able to gather like this again? Let's enjoy the moment, hahaha."

Yoo Ah-young. Go Tae-wook. Kim Tae-hyun.

Ji Jin-hee smiled pleasantly as he looked at the wonderfully grown-up younger generation.

He was so happy that his eyes were even watering.

"Oh my. Our Association President. Contrary to appearances, you have a lot of sensibility. More than that, Vice Chief Go, I heard that Guild Leader Kwak Si-yang has woken up. Is he okay?"

It was already known information, but Ah-young asked again.

"Fortunately, it seems there will be no aftereffects. He asked me to tell Tae-hyun that he's grateful."

Tae-hyun nodded at Go Tae-wook's words.

Thinking that he should visit him sometime.

The topic returned to the last day of the goodwill competition.

"To think that the tower was the dragon's lair. I almost died if I had made a mistake."

Go Tae-wook said in a tone mixed with joking and sincerity.

This was because the tower had already been half-destroyed when he arrived at the scene.

If he had arrived in the Abyss a little earlier, he would have had to fight not only the Red Dragon but also hundreds of dragonkin.

"So? Did you really catch the dragon?"

Ah-young asked, her eyes shining.

Various speculative articles were circulating.

The other two also looked at Tae-hyun with curious expressions.

This was the first time they were hearing it from the person involved.

"Yes. Well... I almost died several times. I was lucky."

That was true.

Red Dragon Kaiselin.

Even though her wings had been cut off and she was degenerating, she still had the power of an SS-rank monster.

By the time Tae-hyun hunted down Kaiselin after several near-death experiences, he was also in a state where it would have been strange if he hadn't died.

'If there hadn't been a spring of regeneration inside the tower, I would have been done for.'

Probably the spring of regeneration that Kaiselin had created in preparation for emergencies.

Tae-hyun, who had recovered his body with that, slaughtered the surrounding dragonkin.

Even though each one was an S-rank monster.

Perhaps because of the fear that they had hunted their master, they had to give up their lives without putting up proper resistance.

When he said this, everyone looked like they understood.

Compliments about Tae-hyun's exploits were exchanged.

And.

"Now we need to talk about what will happen in the future. Tae-hyun, I'll ask you honestly. Is the reason you aimed for victory... because of the uncompleted dungeon?"

Taking in the gazes of the three people calmly, Tae-hyun smiled.

"That's right."

Perhaps because it was an expected answer.

Neither Ji Jin-hee, Yoo Ah-young, nor Go Tae-wook had a particularly surprised reaction.

They only mentioned the notoriety to Tae-hyun once more.

"Tae-hyun, that's a place that even national-level players from each country haven't been able to complete, even with a party."

"That's right. It's formally included in the goodwill competition victory reward, but... there's a reason why China and Japan haven't touched it so far."

Yoo Ah-young and Go Tae-wook said in turn.

They wanted to say that it would be better to focus on exploring the Abyss than dungeons created in other countries.

But.

'Tae-hyun must have something in mind.'

'He's a kid who hasn't done anything useless so far.'

Those expectations were the reason why they had arranged this meeting.

Tae-hyun had also expected this reaction.

'It's certainly not a place that's easy to talk about.'

Uncompleted Dungeon.

That meant places where the location of the dungeon had been identified but had not yet been completed.

It was different from the undiscovered dungeons of New Korea.

Fortunately, Tae-hyun had already dealt with all the dungeons that New Korea had not been able to handle.

However, Japan and China, and some other Asian countries, had dungeons that were different from those in New Korea.

The most representative ones were the uncompleted Beomjinsa Dungeon in Japan and the uncompleted Guangzhou Dungeon in China.

Because their locations were national strongholds.

Several completion teams, including national-level players, had been dispatched, and surprisingly, all had failed, making them even more famous.

Tae-hyun, a foreigner, was going to target such places.

On the surface, it was an incomprehensible action.

But.

"Don't worry. I have something in mind."

Tae-hyun, as always.

He gave a confident smile.

Episode 107

That evening, after parting ways with Ji Jinhee, Yoo Ah Young, and Go Tae Wook.

Taehyun, using Stealth to sneak back home, noticed a parcel sitting prominently in the living room.

It was the magic stones he had sent to Alchemist for appraisal after the friendly match.

"It's already here."

After a friendly match, magic stones converted into points were given to the participating representatives.

This was one of the reasons why some players preferred the monster team.

"Looking at it like this... I killed quite a lot."

Even though he only stayed in the Abyss for less than two days.

The Tower of Yongin was like combining dozens of dungeons, so it was a natural outcome.

Taehyun began to unpack the magic stones, which were packed full in special containers, one by one.

A clean white paper was placed on top of the shimmering magic stones.

It was a note from Alchemist Guild Master Seo Sangik to Taehyun.

[To Player Kim Taehyun. First of all, thank you for using Alchemist again. If you are considering selling the magic stones, please contact us at any time... We at Alchemist are always ready to buy them at a good price...]

Pfft.

Taehyun chuckled as he read the lengthy sentences.

He could imagine how much Alchemist must have been drooling while appraising these magic stones.

If he sold all these magic stones, he could probably build several buildings in Seoul, which is famous for its high land prices.

But.

'What's important now isn't buildings.'

He could build buildings later.

But a player without ability might die tomorrow.

So what's important to Taehyun now is.

'Even slightly better items, skills, and stats.'

Taehyun continued reading the note.

[...The Red Dragon's magic stone will take a little longer to process. We will contact you as soon as it is ready. - Guild Master Seo Sangik.]

'I guess it wasn't easy for Guild Master Seo Sangik either.'

Taehyun thought of Kaiselin's magic stone, which everyone had been paying attention to.

The magic stone, also known as the Dragon Heart, contained a different level of magic than ordinary monsters.

Taehyun had tried several times, but unfortunately, he couldn't devour all of Kaiselin's magic stone.

'Well, thanks to that, I was able to win the friendly match. I guess it's not something to regret.'

For that reason.

Kaiselin's magic stone was entrusted to Seo Sangik, who is considered the best engineer in Shinhan.

With the expectation that he could make the power contained in the magic stone suitable for players to handle.

Taehyun poured all the magic stones piled up in the special container onto the floor.

Whirr.

Magic stones of different sizes and colors, each cleaned neatly, scattered around.

It was like looking at processed raw stones.

"Hoo. Then, shall we begin."

Taehyun focused his magic power.

Ding.

[Unique Skill Devour (A) has been activated. Target is specified.]

Whoosh.

Crimson magic power, emanating from his body, covered the magic stones.

And.

Crack. Crack. Crack.

The magic stones, which were once someone's heart, began to be swallowed by the power of the Devourer.

Ding.

[Devoured a large amount of magic power. Magic Power increased by 1.]

[Devoured a large amount of magic power. Strength increased by 1.]

[Devoured a large amount of magic power. Speed increased by 1.]

The messages he had been waiting for appeared before his eyes.

Name: Kim Taehyun

Age: 19

Rank: A

Strength: 180 Stamina: 200 Speed: 150 Magic Power: 270 Charm: 150

Fatigue: 10%

Remaining Magic Power: 200/270

[Skills]

Devour (A) - Can devour the desired target. Demonic Energy: 50

Stone Skin (A) - Can strengthen the body. Demonic Energy: 20

Stealth (A) - Can hide the body. Demonic Energy: 15

Paralysis (A) - Restrains the target's body. Demonic Energy: 10

Lord's Heart (A) - Increases the stats of party members. Demonic Energy: 20

King Knight's Ferocity (A) - Overwhelms the opponent with ferocity. Demonic Energy: 25

Chains of Entrapment (A) - Designates and binds the opponent. Skill tracking and cancellation are possible. Demonic Energy: 20

Queen's Man (A) - Summons the Queen of Succubi, Rozaria. Demonic Energy: 200

Complete Hypnosis (A) - Designates and hypnotizes the opponent. Demonic Energy: 40

World of Silence (A) - Deploys a world that dominates the five senses. Demonic Energy: 40

"Good."

Taehyun smiled in satisfaction as he looked at his status window.

Stamina and Magic Power. Both stats exceeded 200.

Strength would likely exceed 200 soon, and with his Speed stat at this level, he wouldn't be far behind other national powerhouses.

The feeling of magic power boiling in his body, which he felt every time he grew.

That wasn't just because of the magic stones he had devoured.

The Red Dragon Kaiselin.

The constant increase during the life-threatening battle with him had a significant impact.

And most of all.

'My Charm stat is increasing too much...'

Even when he was slaughtering Yongin, his Charm stat increased considerably.

What Taehyun originally wanted was a Charisma stat.

'Is there no real difference between Charisma and Charm for monsters...?'

Even so, it felt strange that a stat he didn't focus on was on par with Speed.

'I wish I could add it to other stats instead. But at this point, I can use 'Dragon's Tear'.'

The minimum requirement for using 'Dragon's Tear' was having one stat exceed 250.

"The timing is perfect."

Tomorrow, he had to go to Hong Kong to receive the friendly match victory reward certificate.

Because he anticipated what would happen there.

Taehyun was more than satisfied with his increased stats.

The rewards for the Asian Player Friendly Match were twofold.

One was a unique item for the five representatives of the winning country.

The item could be selected from those jointly owned by the Asian Player Association member countries.

The second was ownership of an un-cleared dungeon that the Asian Player Association member countries had not been able to solve.

This was a symbolic reward.

But the meaning was significant.

It created a justification for the winning country's players to legally operate, ostensibly for dungeon investigation.

'In my past life, China used this right to their advantage.'

But in this life, it would be Shinhan, not China, that would claim that right.

Taehyun, having arrived in Hong Kong, was immediately escorted to the Player Association President's office.

"President. Player Kim Taehyun is here."

"Bring him in."

Along with the voice of a middle-aged woman.

Taehyun entered the President's office.

"Welcome, Player Kim Taehyun."

A woman in her 50s wearing a red suit.

Hong Kong Association President Joo Richen warmly greeted him and offered her hand.

"It's nice to see you again."

Taehyun shook her hand and gave a brief greeting.

"I've been waiting for you. Come this way."

The structure was not much different from President Ji Jinhee's room.

One desk, a reception sofa, and a table.

He could glean her personality from the office's interior design.

Click.

President Joo Richen personally handed him a cup of black tea.

"I'm sorry to treat Asia's hero in this manner."

"No. I understand Hong Kong's circumstances."

"Thank you for understanding."

Normally, all broadcasting station reporters would be stationed on the day the winning country receives its reward, but Hong Kong's current situation was not so good.

Five national representatives, who could be said to be Hong Kong's greatest power, had met mysterious deaths.

In the midst of that, it was awkward to accept foreign players into their country.

That was why Taehyun had come to Hong Kong alone, despite being the winning country.

'Certainly, now is the most dangerous time.'

President Zheng's and the Chinese players' ambition.

In the face of that ambition, which anyone who knew would be aware of, Hong Kong and Taiwan were like flickering candles.

From Hong Kong's perspective, it was very fortunate that the winning country was Shinhan.

"Player Kim Taehyun. While the documents for the two rewards arrive, there is something I would like to say for a moment."

"Please speak."

"To be direct. Our Hong Kong wants to form a 'blood alliance' with Shinhan."

"......"

A blood alliance, a step beyond the already established alliance.

An alliance made of blood.

'She's really getting straight to the point.'

Hong Kong had already formed a blood alliance with Taiwan externally.

Because Taehyun knew the weight of that.

He couldn't answer hastily.

In his past life, Hong Kong and Taiwan were absorbed and unified by China, and unless there were major variables, that future would not change in this life either.

"I'm sorry. I don't think that's something I can decide."

Taehyun politely declined.

President Joo Richen grabbed Taehyun's hand once more.

"Our Hong Kong and Taiwan no longer have any power that can be called S-rank players. At this rate, even if China claims unification, there are no talents to put up a defensive..."

It had not been long since Hong Kong had partially seceded from China.

It couldn't be helped that there was a lack of talent compared to Shinhan or Japan.

"I'm just a player. I don't think I can say anything about that. When I return, I will mention it to President Ji Jinhee once more."

"I understand... I seem to have made too much of a request to the hero of Shinhan. Even so, I will shamelessly ask you to please... do so."

To her, who bowed her head and pleaded earnestly.

Taehyun bowed his head in return.

Just then, an employee of the association came with the certificate of conveyance.

The content stated that they would recognize ownership of five unique items and an un-cleared dungeon in the Asian region.

Below that were stamped the seals of the Asian Player Association and Hong Kong, the host country.

'Looks like it's about time.'

Just as Taehyun was about to receive the certificate of conveyance.

Thump.

The Association building shook greatly.

Just as he thought he heard a commotion, the door to the President's office burst open.

"President!! We're under attack!!"

"Under attack!! What kind of nonsense is that!!"

"Unidentified individuals... are causing a riot!!"

"What are you talking about!! All the warp gates in Hong Kong are under control!!"

"Th, that is probably considered a type of skill..."

Among the two people exchanging confused words.

"Oh dear. This has become troublesome. I was just about to return."

Taehyun scratched his face and put the certificate of conveyance into his arms.

"Player Kim Taehyun, please stay here for a moment..."

Just as Joo Richen was about to go outside with her subordinate.

'......!!'

Taehyun hastily grabbed Joo Richen's body.

Thud.

The body of the subordinate, who had opened the door ahead of Joo Richen, began to tremble.

It was because of the red sword that had pierced his chest.

"Sa, save..."

Slash.

Cutting down the man along with the door.

A masked man came in.

He was holding a familiar sword in his hand.

"So you were all gathered here. The betrayer who turned his back on the great country and the rat of the small country."

Even though his face was covered by a mask.

Taehyun immediately recognized who he was.

"Your way of speaking is still terrible. For a trespasser."

To Taehyun's mockery, who spoke calmly.

Tear.

The man removed his mask with his own hand.

"Y, you are...!!"

At the moment Joo Richen identified the man with a trembling voice.

Clang.

The blood sword swung towards Joo Richen was blocked by Taehyun's Lédíc.

"Can you not see me? Or."

Clang!!

The man's figure slid back as Taehyun swung his sword again.

"Do you still think you have the upper hand?"

Gnash.

The masked man gritted his teeth.

"Kim Taehyun. I guess I'll have to tear you apart first to proceed."

Even in the face of Jang Linfeng's fierce threat.

Taehyun was just calmly using his skills.

108

Hong Kong Player Association Headquarters.

A 30-story building considered the safest in Hong Kong.

Screams and groans echoed throughout the magnificent building.

It was due to the suddenly appearing, unidentified masked men.

"Where do you think you are…!!"

Crackle.

Skill 'Chain Lightning'.

A player from the association cast a skill, aiming for one of the masked men.

However.

Slice.

The masked man dodged the skill without hesitation and beheaded the caster.

It was a movement that could only be shown by someone incredibly skilled or professionally trained.

And it wasn't just him.

Similar situations were repeating themselves elsewhere.

To put it simply.

The difference in skill was too great.

"Damn it…!!"

One of the association players shouted and fired off skills indiscriminately.

Blades of wind flew towards the masked men.

Clang, clang, clang, clang.

The masked men nonchalantly deflected the woman's skills.

'Damn it… Where did these guys come from…!!'

The five S-rank players who were the hope of Hong Kong.

If they were here, they wouldn't be getting toyed with like this.

If they hadn't all died in the friendly match.

No, if they hadn't participated in the friendly match.

The thought of 'what if' filled the woman's head.

After the friendly match, a large number of high-level players were specially stationed at the association headquarters.

It was to protect the 'Gate Control Tower' installed at the headquarters.

But that effort was collapsing in vain.

Area-of-effect skills are not useful in high-rise buildings like the association.

Therefore, most of them have skills for one-on-one combat.

The invaders, as if they had anticipated this, were overwhelming them, armed with top-tier armor and weapons.

Clang. Clang. Clang.

The woman readjusted her sword, facing the masked man rushing towards her.

'God. Please protect our Hong Kong.'

The woman swung her sword at the masked man.

But the masked man's sword was faster.

Thwack.

"Cough…."

She was stabbed in a vital spot in one blow.

The woman's body collapsed.

"Cough… Who… are you… really…"

The masked man sneered at the woman who was spitting blood.

"The great nation does not tolerate division."

Thwack.

Hong Kong Player Association Headquarters.

China's first independent nation was being rapidly occupied.

Just five minutes ago.

Even though Taehyun stood in his way, Zhang Linfeng was relaxed.

Because everything was within his calculations.

Including himself, eleven subordinates had infiltrated for this operation.

Each of them was an A-rank skilled individual armed with unique items.

Although they had lost all their S-rank players, they were a nation that had succeeded in becoming independent from the great nation.

Their strength couldn't be underestimated.

That's why China absolutely needed to win this friendly match.

As the winning country, the five Chinese representatives who had gathered to receive the endorsement.

Even if Hong Kong's full force was concentrated, it wouldn't be difficult to take over the headquarters.

Caring about the eyes of other countries was a matter for later.

But as a result, China failed to win the friendly match, and Plan B had to be activated.

The ultra-rare S-rank skill 'False Door'.

A skill of a rookie who was relatively recently scouted by the association, and not yet known anywhere in the world.

It was a skill that allowed the caster to move to a place they had been to at least once, ignoring detection or magical interference.

There were restrictions.

Even with magic amplification stones, only one national-level power and two S-ranks could pass through.

Therefore, one selected national-level power and ten A-rank players to assist him were chosen.

Those armed with unique items would not be inferior to even an average S-rank player.

So.

If they could seize the association headquarters and the Gate Control Tower, the large army waiting would arrive in Hong Kong.

Kim Taehyun's machinations had somewhat derailed the plan, but in the end, the great nation's ambition would be realized.

Right in the hands of Zhang Linfeng, the new hero of the continent.

Crack.

That's what he thought.

Crunch.

Zhang Linfeng's expression distorted as he blocked Taehyun's continuous palm strikes.

Even though Taehyun used Stone Skin, a heavy impact different from before flowed through his wrist.

"Are you finally starting to feel it?"

Taehyun sneered and swung Redick.

Zhang Linfeng quickly swung his blood sword and stepped back.

Taehyun's movements and strength far exceeded his expectations.

'I'm… flustered?'

It was an unbelievable, embarrassing thing to say.

Zhang Linfeng realized once again that Taehyun had grown again.

His body began to shake.

"Heh heh… heh heh heh…."

"What's so funny?"

"I heard you were a growth type, and you're quite something. I guess it's not an exaggeration that you caught a Saint-level dragon."

"……."

Zhang Linfeng thought that Taehyun's sudden increase in combat power was the result of growth through the friendly match.

He also thought that the red dragon he caught was a Saint-level one.

Taehyun, reading his thoughts, chuckled.

"Well, your mind will change after taking a few hits."

Taehyun raised his magic power again.

Palm strikes used after activating 'Stone Skin'.

There was definitely a different feeling than before.

Then the other skills would be the same.

'The ingredients were worth it.'

'Dragon's Tears' used before coming to Hong Kong.

Thanks to that, the increased strength and speed stats were working on Zhang Linfeng.

'I'm no longer behind in physical abilities.'

He could see Zhang Linfeng's rushing movements.

The blood sword in his hands, and the dozens of materialized blood swords around him, rushed towards Taehyun.

Clang. Clang. Clang.

Redick and the arms reinforced with Stone Skin quickly deflected the blood swords.

Whoosh.

At that moment, a blood sword flew towards Association President Juri Chen.

Clang!!

Taehyun, who had moved in an instant, deflected the blood sword.

Even Zhang Linfeng was surprised by that movement.

"Association President. We have secured the endorsement for India."

Taehyun said, his gaze fixed on Zhang Linfeng.

"Yes…."

Juri Chen replied weakly.

In this situation, it sounded like Taehyun was saying he was going to step back.

But Taehyun's thoughts were different.

"And since we're here."

Taehyun, who had shot out like an arrow, swung Redick at Zhang Linfeng once more.

Clang!!

Redick and Zhang Linfeng's blood sword clashed once again, making a metallic sound.

"I'll help you deal with the intruders a little."

"You arrogant bastard…."

Grrrrr.

While Redick and the blood sword were in a power struggle.

Grab.

Taehyun's hand grabbed Zhang Linfeng's arm.

The skills were activated simultaneously.

Ting.

[Skill Knight King's Aura (A) has been activated. Targeting the target.]

[Skill Chains of Binding (A) has been activated. Targeting the target.]

[Skill Paralysis (A) has been activated. Targeting the target.]

Rumble.

Rattle.

The three skills that were stacked in an instant began to press down on Zhang Linfeng's body.

Crack.

Taehyun blocked the palm strike that flew towards his chest.

His wrist throbbed, but that was it.

Conversely, one of Zhang Linfeng's arms was wrapped in 'Chains of Binding'.

"How about it. Are you starting to realize your own situation?"

At Taehyun's taunt.

Zhang Linfeng's expression hardened once again.

'How can this be happening?'

Zhang Linfeng cursed and gestured.

The blood swords materialized on the spot and poured down.

Clang, clang, clang.

Taehyun quickly deflected them.

Not dodging, but deflecting.

Nearly a hundred blood swords.

Zhang Linfeng's body, pushing Taehyun, was heavy.

He was minimizing the effects of the skills with the power of the items he wore.

'If it goes to a long-term fight… I'll be at a disadvantage.'

Crack.

Zhang Linfeng gritted his teeth.

How long had it been since he had considered defeat?

He was also a growth-type Awakened.

Therefore, he knew.

Just because you are a growth-type Awakened doesn't mean the process of gaining power is easy.

Rather, being a growth-type Awakened means that the risk of physical collapse is greater.

"What did you do to that body of yours?"

Zhang Linfeng roared, pushing Taehyun.

He was called the greatest talent in the history of the continent.

Even he had spent a considerable amount of time training and being modified to gain this power.

That's why, even more so.

He couldn't easily accept the divine power that Taehyun, who had a clear difference, was showing now.

'There's no way he could have grown this much in a short period of time.'

Zhang Linfeng, filled with disbelief, took out a scroll from his pocket.

This was also a masterpiece created by China's talent.

It was a scroll that allowed you to view the other person's status window, ignoring their magic resistance.

Rip.

As he tore the scroll, Taehyun's status window appeared before his eyes.

Name: Kim Taehyun

Age: 19

Rank: A

Strength: 200 Stamina: 200 Speed: 180 Magic Power: 270 Charm: 150

Fatigue: 30%

Remaining Magic Power: 180/270

[Skills]

?(A) - ? Required Magic Power: ?

Stone Skin (A) - Can reinforce the body. Required Magic Power: 20

Stealth (A) - Can hide the body. Required Magic Power: 15

Paralysis (A) - Restrains the target's body. Required Magic Power: 10

Lord's Heart (A) - Increases the stats of party members. Required Magic Power: 20

Knight King's Aura (A) - Overwhelms the opponent with aura by designating them. Required Magic Power: 25

Chains of Binding (A) - Binds the target by designating them. Skill tracking and cancellation are possible. Required Magic Power: 20

?(A) - ? Required Magic Power: ?

?(A) - ? Required Magic Power: ?

World of Silence (A) - Deploys a world that dominates the five senses. Required Magic Power: 40

"……!!"

Zhang Linfeng involuntarily stepped back at the unbelievable status window.

'What is this… this can't be….'

Taehyun was just as surprised.

[Skill usage detected. Caught in Observer's Authority (S). Resisting with mysterious power. Partially successful in resisting. Magic power that could not be resisted is infiltrating.]

The skill that was embedded in the scroll had broken through the power of Gluttony.

'If it's Observer's Authority… is it a skill that spies on the status window?'

It was a famous skill even in his past life.

Although the Awakened's face was not known.

Ten years later, it would be known as a skill surpassing Michael Gore, the national-level power of the United States.

But that was all.

Zhang Linfeng's movements, after confirming Taehyun's status window, became noticeably dull.

He was flustered by the physical stats and various skills that far exceeded his expectations.

'Tsk tsk. How can you be so mentally weak?'

It is easy to overwhelm with overwhelming power, but the opposite requires tremendous mental strength.

In that regard.

Zhang Linfeng, who had only taken the elite course, also had a clear limit.

"It's over."

Taehyun, who spat out mockingly, dodged dozens of blood swords.

At the same time, he rushed into his arms.

Grab.

Taehyun's two hands grabbed Zhang Linfeng's arm.

"Let go, let go!!"

Zhang Linfeng shouted involuntarily at the sudden offensive.

Grip.

Taehyun ignored him and concentrated his strength in his hand.

"I'll get back at you for the debt in the Abyss."

Crack.

With a chilling sound, Zhang Linfeng's arm was torn off.

Zhang Linfeng screaming in pain and Taehyun smiling bitterly.

That unbelievable sight.

"……!!"

Association President Juri Chen was watching with a horrified expression.

Okay, here's the translation of chapter 109:

Chapter 109

Hong Kong Player Association Headquarters Building.

In the Association President's office on the 10th floor, a man screamed.

A Chinese national-level player leading the invaders.

It was Zhang Linfeng, known as unmatched in Asia.

"Kuh..."

He groaned, clutching his blood sword.

Shick.

Without the slightest hesitation.

He cleanly cut off the arm that had been torn off by his own hand.

As the magic power of the blood sword seeped into his body along the cut surface, the bleeding began to stop.

Truly a perfect judgment and first aid.

Taehyun, who was watching the scene, raised the corners of his lips.

"You look like you're in pain. General of the continent."

It was mockery.

Towards a being who had been arrogant, trusting only in his own power.

The attitude that one who has obtained stronger power can take.

"You... you son of a bitch I could chew to pieces..."

"Is there still Player Park Seongjin's 'share' left?"

"How dare you!!"

Ignoring Zhang Linfeng's roar.

Taehyun rushed in once more.

Blood swords flew in from all directions.

'The power... the number... are insignificant compared to the beginning.'

It was different from the friendly match.

The current Taehyun is not pressed for time, nor does he need to avoid fighting.

No.

In the first place, with physical stats becoming similar, Zhang Linfeng was no longer a threat.

'This measly thing.'

Kaga gagagang.

Taehyun, who deflected the blood sword, stretched out his hand.

Tting.

[Enhance skill Paralysis (A). Specify the target. Magic consumption is accelerated.]

Zhang Linfeng had endured the skill with various unique items and physical stats exceeding 200.

However, now that one arm had been torn off and his physical stats had decreased, even that resistance was difficult.

Pook.

Reddick finally buried himself in Zhang Linfeng's remaining shoulder.

Kigigigigigik.

Taehyun twisted Reddick's handle, digging through bone.

"Keu... ah..."

Skill Paralysis doesn't alleviate pain.

Moreover, for him, who had taken the elite course simultaneously with his awakening.

This kind of pain was unfamiliar.

Chaenggeurang.

In the end, he dropped the blood sword he was holding.

Taehyun's eyes changed.

"I'll take the rest of the debt too."

Shick.

Along with the sound of bones being severed.

Zhang Linfeng screamed even louder than before.

A national-level player China boasts of.

A talent who would take over the association after President Jungz.

Genius. Strongest. Talent. Warrior. Demon. Ruler.

His mind, which had been called by various modifiers, went blank.

Painful. Agonizing. Miserable. Shameful.

His mouth was screaming in pain, and his vision was blurred.

All he could see was red blood that seemed to be his own, his torn left arm, and his severed right arm.

'Am I losing?'

That's absurd.

He was the best general on the continent.

He had long surpassed President Jungz, who was already called a hero of the continent.

Nevertheless, he held his breath and hid his strength.

He became a sword and followed orders.

President Jungz's dream of continental unification (大陸統一) would soon be.

Because it would be the foundation for his own dream of world unification (世界統一).

A national-level player born as a chosen being.

A desire that only a minority who have crossed the wall can dream of.

The realization of his desire was right before his eyes.

Thump.

Due to dizziness from bleeding, one of Zhang Linfeng's knees buckled.

Not kneeling on both knees was his last bit of pride.

'I can't... I can't kneel here.'

Zhang Linfeng tried to regain his fading consciousness.

Both arms were cut off.

He had enough magic, but with the blood sword alone, he could no longer shock the guy.

Taehyun's appearance came into view.

A player from a small country mocking him.

A being who was ruining the ambitions of a great power.

Even when Xishin died, when Chaimingmin died, even when he escaped from his hands.

Zhang Linfeng did not lose his composure.

He thought that if he wanted to, he could erase Kim Taehyun from the world at any time.

And.

He was confident that this mission would show that there were 'grades' even in growth types.

That was not the case.

Taehyun's growth was faster than he thought, and there seemed to be no limit.

Zhang Linfeng, looking at the irregular, let out a laugh.

'Keuheuk... In the end, you make me use this power.'

The first meeting was a coincidence.

The deeper parts of the abyss, more shrouded in mystery than known.

A duke who dominates the deepest part that even a national-level player can't enter without risking their life.

He had met the being called the Vampire Lord.

Just by accepting his power, Zhang Linfeng was able to grow one step further.

And the power he was about to use now was.

The 'power of the ruler' that was only allowed to him.

With no other options left, Zhang Linfeng activated his 'second skill'.

[Skill Blood Rampage (S) has been activated. Magic consumption is accelerated.]

Kwaaaaaaaa.

Blood spurted from Zhang Linfeng's body, not only from his eyes, nose, mouth, and ears.

But even from his severed arms.

Kwadedeudeudeudeudeuk.

With a terrifying sound, his severed arms began to regenerate.

No. It was different from regeneration.

The newly created arms.

Were sharp and had bright red skin, like those of a monster.

"Keueueueu..."

The pleasure flowing through his whole body.

Zhang Linfeng shuddered.

A different level of power that he had never experienced before was awakening his senses.

[A great power awakens. Strength increases. Strength is now 250.]

[A great power awakens. Stamina increases. Stamina is now 250.]

[A great power awakens. Speed increases. Speed is now 250.]

[A great magic power awakens. Magic power increases. Magic power is now 250.]

Uncontrollable crimson magic was rising from his body.

And his appearance became something that could not be called human.

The abyss's monster, a vampire.

He had become a member of the ruler's race who had given him power.

"......!!"

Taehyun was also aware of the change.

The foreign energy that was swirling around Zhang Linfeng's body.

Taehyun's senses were screaming danger.

'He was hiding this much power?'

Pajik. Pajijik.

Sparks flew as the swirling crimson magic power collided with Stoneskin.

'Dangerous.'

It was the moment Taehyun was about to evacuate Jurichen.

Pupupupupuk.

Zhang Linfeng didn't even feel the slightest movement to activate the skill.

Dozens of blood swords created at the same time as recognition.

It was not a speed that an A-rank player could avoid.

The blood swords were embedded in Jurichen and his subordinate's bodies.

Without even having time to scream.

The president of the Hong Kong Player Association had lost his life.

"Hehehehe..."

Zhang Linfeng belatedly let out a laugh.

Unlike before, it was a laugh mixed with madness.

"Did you cause a skill to go berserk?"

He was asking, but he knew.

This was not a skill rampage or anything like that.

A thicker scent of blood was felt than the magic power used in skills.

Just like Taehyun's Devour.

"The dead look like bugs in a night market."

Zhang Linfeng laughed at Jurichen's corpse with his red eyes.

"All stats 250."

"......!!"

"That's my current physical stat."

"......"

"It's really amazing power..."

Zhang Linfeng closed his eyes, savoring the boiling power.

The amplified physical stats raised his five senses.

The sounds of killing and being killed. Explosions. The vibrations of skills being activated.

He could tell that the invasion that started on the first floor had already reached the 20th floor.

Like that of a fanatic.

Zhang Linfeng, with a chilling smile, finally remembered his mission.

To seize the gate control tower and bring in the armies of the great power.

If he didn't hurry, there was a possibility that the quick-witted United States or the EU would intervene.

He should deal with Taehyun as quickly as possible and join the main force.

'No. Kim Taehyun is no longer a problem. With this power... it's possible to subjugate Hong Kong and Taiwan alone.'

Perhaps that was why.

Zhang Linfeng was being complacent.

He had the right to do so now.

Taehyun, who had noticed that something was wrong, enhanced his skills.

'King Knight's Dignity', 'Chains of Binding', 'Paralysis'.

A significant amount of magic was drained as the three skills pressed down on Zhang Linfeng's body.

However.

"Tricks no longer work."

Blood swords scattered from Zhang Linfeng's body.

Kkaang. Kkaang. Kkaaang.

Taehyun deflected the flying blood swords with Reddick.

Unlike before, he felt a heavy impact.

'Dangerous.'

Taehyun threw himself away, leaving a message that the skill was canceled.

Pupupupupuk.

Dozens of blood swords were embedded in that spot.

The skill activation time, power, and number were on a different level than before.

"Yes. You were that kind of rat."

Pipipipipit.

Hundreds of nail-sized blood swords swept past Taehyun's body.

It was a power that would have torn his entire body apart if it weren't for Stoneskin.

"In the Abyss. And on Earth."

Kagagagagagang!!!

Taehyun tirelessly deflected dozens of blood swords flying towards his heart.

"Show me. The last card you have."

Zhang Linfeng wore a bitter smile.

With eyes that looked at the commoners(愚民) like a ruler.

Taehyun calmly accepted that gaze while drawing up his magic power.

"I was going to anyway."

Crimson magic power bloomed.

Stoneskin was enhanced, and his eyes were dyed red.

In a confined space, there is only the enemy to be eliminated.

It was a perfect timing to settle the score.

"I'm going to do that."

Tting.

[Skill World of Silence (A) has been activated. The target is not specified. Extends the range. Magic consumption is accelerated.]

Hwaaaaaak.

The surroundings instantly became quiet.

In that place where only silence existed.

Zhang Linfeng with a blood sword and Taehyun with Reddick faced each other.

"Chaimingmin's skill. But with this level..."

Taehyun ignored Zhang Linfeng's words and used his last skill.

[Unique skill Devour (A) has been activated. The target is specified.]

"Eat it up. Devour."

On the stage set up in the quiet chamber.

Crimson magic power and dark red magic power collided.

Hwaaaaaak.

'World of Silence' was deactivated.

Taehyun staggered and knelt on one knee.

Blood was flowing from all over his body.

Wounds created by Zhang Linfeng's blood sword.

"Haa... All stats 250. You're a monster."

As he said that, he saw a corpse where his gaze was directed.

Zhang Linfeng's corpse, already half-devoured and having ended his life.

Even in the World of Silence, his momentum was unstoppable.

He ignored the pressing skills and wielded his blood sword like a berserker.

Later, he even sank sharply grown fangs into Taehyun's shoulder.

What determined the victory was the skill 'Complete Hypnosis'.

He was excited after tasting Taehyun's blood, and he flinched.

And Devour swallowed half of his body, fighting against the resisting crimson magic power.

It was a body that was constantly regenerating from any attack.

In the end, however, it could not withstand the power of Devour.

Of course, Taehyun also had to pay the price.

Taehyun, looking at the blood pooling on Zhang Linfeng's corpse, took out a potion from his waist and drank it.

[A new skill has been registered.]

The message appearing before his eyes seemed to help him forget the pain.

'Blood Sword... It's a skill that wasn't planned, but it's not bad.'

He was going to devour the corpse if possible.

Looking at it now, however, it seemed like an impossible plan.

'Where's the status window...'

Just as Taehyun was about to check the status window.

Zhang Linfeng's corpse, which should have already died, was stirring.

Kwal kwalkwal kwal.

Blood that could not be called human was pouring out of the corpse.

'What...?'

Taehyun was wary for a moment.

With the surge of magic power, a red light flashed.

"......!!"

When the light subsided, there was a man in front of him.

Pale skin and blonde hair.

Most striking of all were the red eyes, as red as blood.

[Was it you who killed my contractor?]

Vampire Lord.

The duke of the Abyss asked in a chilling voice.

Episode 110

It was a demon's language.

But the oppressive feeling wasn't like that of ordinary demons.

Kaiselin, the dragon who dominated the Tower of the Dragonkin.

No, it had an even denser magical power.

'Rosaria.'

I felt an aura similar to when I summoned her.

The blond man asked again.

"Oh, excuse me. Should I ask in Chinese?"

"......!!"

Fluent Chinese.

It was definitely a human language being translated through the earring.

Taehyun tried to hide his surprised expression and asked back.

"Who... are you?"

"Didn't I ask?"

The surrounding aura changed once again.

A huge amount of magical power began to gather around the man.

"Are you the one who killed my contractor?"

Kuaooooh.

A vortex of blood swirled, and the building shook.

"Kuh...."

Taehyun strengthened his Stone Skin at the unexpected power.

Fortunately, his magic power had been restored.

"Ho?"

The man showed interest as he watched Taehyun withstand his aura.

According to what he had heard from his contractor.

With this much power on Earth, he would be in the top five.

But the human in front of him was enduring that power.

Although his power had been infinitely reduced as he manifested in the human realm.

'A mere' human was withstanding the power of a grand duke.

"Interesting. So you're capable of killing my contractor."

The man smiled coldly and placed his foot on Jang Linpeng's lifeless body.

Crack. Crack.

With just that, the corpse began to wither away.

At that moment.

The door to the association president's office opened, and masked figures rushed in.

They were the Chinese players who had invaded with Jang Linpeng.

"What is this...."

"Could it be...."

"Captain...."

Their eyes were filled with bewilderment.

Jang Linpeng, the leader of the mission and the core force.

Not only was he dead, but he also looked like a mummy.

The blond man was stepping on Jang Linpeng's corpse.

And Kim Taehyun of Shinhan, one of the targets.

They didn't have much time to think.

"Everyone retreat...."

It only took 3 seconds to assess the situation.

But those 3 seconds hastened their deaths.

As the man reached out his hand, the masked men grabbed their necks.

"Cough...."

"Kuh-huh...."

"Keck...."

"Save me...."

Their masks were torn off.

And blood spurted from their mouths.

'Blood Drain?'

An S-rank skill that hadn't appeared among awakeners yet.

That rare skill was being used by a demon.

"Insignificant magical power."

The man, who had absorbed the blood, raised his hand as a test.

Kwagwagwagwagwa.

A pillar of blood was created, and the building above was instantly blown away.

From the 11th floor to the 30th floor.

A building equivalent to 20 floors had vanished in an instant.

"Is this the sky of Earth? It's blue."

"......"

A considerable presence was felt from the upper floors.

Whether they were Hong Kong players or invaders, there were quite a few of them.

But all of them.

Were blown away with a single gesture from the man.

'If I allow the first strike... it's dangerous.'

Taehyun released his magical power with all his might.

He instinctively felt the tragic end that would come if he just stood still.

Tring.

[Skill Knight King's Dignity (A) has been activated. Targeting the opponent.]

[Skill Chains of Entrapment (A) has been activated. Targeting the opponent.]

[Skill Paralysis (A) has been activated. Targeting the opponent.]

[Skill World of Silence (A) has been activated. Not targeting an opponent. Expanding the range. Magic consumption is accelerating.]

Kugugugugung.

Charrrrrreuk.

Was it because he had released 300 magical power with all his might?

The building began to shake once again.

But that was all.

"......!!"

The man was watching with amusement as the aura pressed down on him and the chains wrapped around him within the World of Silence.

Of course, paralysis didn't work on his movements.

"Indeed. You're better than those guys from before."

The man chuckled at the magical power acting on him.

He raised his hand.

Crimson magic power gathered in his pale white hand.

Kuaaaaaaaa.

['Great Power' is in effect. Resisting with a mysterious power. Resistance failed. Skill usage is impossible. Usable skills: 3/10]

Kwaaang!!!

The World of Silence was instantly canceled, and the skills were sealed.

'Crazy.'

Taehyun hurriedly dodged.

A huge blood sword was plunged down right in that spot.

It was incomparable to Jang Linpeng's.

If he had controlled it with a short sword, dagger, and long sword.

The man had five times that.

'Greatsword.'

The magical power felt from the crimson greatsword was also immeasurable.

"Hmm. Is this all there is to it?"

The man waved his hand around as if he didn't like the power of the blood sword.

Poouk. Poouk. Poouk. Poouk.

Blood swords, reminiscent of crosses, were embedded along Taehyun's path.

Kkaang!!

Taehyun deflected one of the blood swords that was about to strike him right above his head, which he hadn't managed to dodge.

Just that alone made his arm tingle.

The man flicked his finger once again.

[Magic power usage detected. Caught in 'Great Power.' Resisting with a mysterious power. Resistance partially successful. Magic power is penetrating.]

[Speed is decreasing.]

[Health is decreasing.]

[Strength is decreasing.]

[Magic consumption is accelerating.]

Taehyun gritted his teeth at the countless messages that popped up.

On Earth.

A demon exerting this much power on the current him.

He had never heard of such an existence, even in his past life.

The man opened his mouth towards Taehyun, who had become noticeably slower.

"Kneel."

It was a power like 'Knight King's Dignity'.

Kugugugung.

Thud.

Taehyun's knees buckled under the overwhelming power.

The man waved his hand.

Charrrrrreuk.

Crimson chains wrapped around Taehyun's body.

It was a power like 'Chains of Entrapment'.

"Worship. Human."

At his gesture, a cross was created above Taehyun's head.

A blood sword, containing a huge and ominous power, ready to strike at any moment, capable of easily severing the neck of a weak human.

The blood sword prepared to fall.

"I'll make you an offer. Surrender your body to me."

Not an offer, but an order.

A compulsory force that could not be refused, like a dragon's word, was felt.

He tried to move his body, but he was as still as if he had been paralyzed.

He had to admit it.

'This guy is not my match.'

Gulp.

Dry saliva was swallowed down his throat.

He checked his magic power.

'170... damn it.'

It wasn't enough.

In his current state, he would just be dying a dog's death.

In the end, there was only one way.

[Unique skill Devour (A) has been activated. Changing form. Magic consumption is accelerating.]

The magic power of Devour wrapped around his body like a blazing flame.

Kwaddeuk. Kwaddeudeuk.

As he devoured the surrounding magic power, the dominance acting on Taehyun weakened.

He moved his knees with all his might.

Deudeudeudeuk.

The bones in his entire body screamed.

"Interesting."

The man, who had been watching that scene with interest, flicked his finger.

Hwoong.

Taehyun threw his body away by a hair's breadth.

The blood sword plunged down into that spot.

"Show me. Your full power."

Two pairs of red eyes met.

He was using a power that was weaker than his, but still to the point of feeling out of place for a human.

That was why he wasn't killing Taehyun right away.

And.

Taehyun wasn't foolish enough to miss that opportunity.

The two remaining magic potions at his waist.

He poured one of them into his mouth.

His magic power began to rise rapidly.

Now there was only one remaining option.

Tring.

[Skill Queen's Man (A) has been activated.]

"Rosaria."

Kwaaaaaaaa.

Along with the dark red magic power.

The queen was summoned.

200 magic power evaporated in an instant.

But there were gains.

[Contractor. You always summon this lady in interesting situations.]

"Otherwise, there would be no need to endure this kind of pain."

Taehyun said, feeling a headache like his head was about to break.

Rosaria, with a benevolent smile, stroked Taehyun's head.

'Treating me like a child...'

Taehyun drank the last magic potion from his waist.

The rapidly depleting magic power began to rise little by little.

But with the current rate of consumption.

'2 minutes is the limit.'

[Amazing. Is that your contractor?]

[Igmune. Long time no see.]

[Indeed. Has it been a thousand years since we faced each other directly?]

The man called Igmune said, stroking his chin.

The existence in front of him was definitely unexpected.

[From the looks of it. Your contractor seems to have died?]

[......]

At the mocking words, Igmune's eyebrows twitched.

[Surely, a grand duke wouldn't be seeking revenge on a human?]

[Shut your mouth. Still as presumptuous as ever.]

Igmune.

The Vampire Lord, who frowned, flicked his hand.

Hundreds of blood swords were created in the air.

Piercing the skin and cutting through the bones with the slightest movement.

Just as Taehyun swallowed dry saliva once again.

Ttaak.

Rosaria flicked her finger.

A storm of magic power began to rage on the 10th floor, where the division had already become meaningless.

Pajijik. Pajijijik.

Sparks flew as the two magic powers collided.

"Kuh-uhk...."

Taehyun groaned at the pain that stirred in his head.

Rosaria glanced at Taehyun.

She was concerned about Taehyun, who was struggling just to maintain her existence and lightly unleash her magic power.

[Troublesome.]

"Rosaria. What is that guy?"

[Vampire Lord Igmune. One who occupies the same grand duke's seat as this lady.]

"Can we win?"

[Hehe. What do you take this lady for, Contractor?]

Blood flowed down Taehyun's nose.

All the blood swords had disappeared, but the risk was not small.

Magic power began to surge within his body as if it were running wild.

[The amount of power this lady can use depends on you, Contractor.]

"Are you telling me to endure?"

[You've grown, but. He's too much for you in your current state.]

"......"

[Just endure it once.]

With those words, a whirlwind of magic power arose from Rosaria's body.

Igmune reached out his hand towards Rosaria.

[Rosaria. Hand that guy over to me.]

[If I hand him over?]

[I will dominate his blood.]

[Hmph~ So you're saying you'll make him a puppet.]

[It's the glory everyone desires.]

[Hehe. How kind of you.]

[......]

Crimson magic power enveloped Igmune's body at the blatant mockery.

[So you want to try it once.]

Rosaria began to draw out her power.

In proportion to that, Taehyun's magic power consumption accelerated.

[Contractor. Watch and learn.]

Hwioooooooo.

A whirlwind of magic power enveloped her.

The building, with only the 10th floor remaining, began to collapse.

[Because it is the power you will have to overcome in the future.]

At the same time as the two pairs of red eyes gleamed.

The two huge magic powers collided.

[Magic power has reached 0.]

[Fatigue has reached 100.]

[Health has fallen below 10%.]

Besides this, dozens of messages popped up in front of him.

But along with the explosion.

Taehyun was unconscious.

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