RKP 121-130

  ----------------------------

Episode 121

A hotel in Tokyo.

Taehyun, who had booked a room while hiding his identity, was doing push-ups.

Without using any magic, he was doing handstand push-ups, befitting his increased stats.

"Hoo... ten... thousand..."

Ding

[Strength has increased by 1.]

[Stamina has increased by 1.]

A message window popped up in front of him as he completed the last rep.

Thud

Taehyun collapsed on the floor, gasping for breath.

"Hoo... Still, it's something that I can raise them like this."

It was the first stat increase in a while from home training.

Taehyun immediately opened his status window.

Name: Kim Taehyun

Age: 19

Rank: AA

Strength: 201 Stamina: 201 Speed: 180 Magic: 280 Charm: 150

Fatigue: 15%

Remaining Magic: 280/280

[Skills]

Devour (AA) - Can devour the desired target. Requires 50 Demonic Power.

Shadow Skin (AA) - Hides the body while enhancing physical abilities. Requires 15 Demonic Power.

Lord's World (AA) - Forms a special field enhanced with magic. Requires 20 Demonic Power.

Lord's Aura (AA) - Emits an aura enhanced with magic. Requires 20 Demonic Power.

Chains of Restraint (AA) - Restrains a designated target. Skill tracking and canceling are possible. Requires 20 Demonic Power.

Queen's Man (AA) - Summons the succubus queen, Rozaria. Requires 200 Demonic Power.

Complete Hypnosis (AA) - Hypnotizes a designated target. Requires 40 Demonic Power.

Blood Rage (?) - ?

"Neat."

Thanks to skill fusion, it was much simpler than before.

And although it wasn't visible.

Taehyun felt that his magic control had become more flexible.

Like turning on and off a machine's power switch, he could control the amount of magic he wanted whenever he wanted.

It was a different level of enlightenment from other players who rely on skills.

But since he had never awakened a skill in his previous life, he simply attributed it to a natural occurrence along with the stat increase.

In any case, true to his name as a growth-type Awakened, Taehyun was growing in various ways.

'Good. If it's this much, it's worth a try.'

After drinking the fatigue recovery potion he had put in the refrigerator, he turned on the monitor in the room.

An announcer was delivering information with the headline 'Breaking News.'

Excitement and fervor could be felt in her calm voice.

[Although the Kyoto branch has been captured, our Great Empire of Japan is standing against the evil monsters... Prime Minister Suga and Player Association Chairman Kubota Masataka are leading a joint operation of the Self-Defense Forces and players... The leadership has shown confidence that they can stop the break with their own strength. They have currently rejected support from several countries, including New Korea, but have expressed their intention to accept supplies and materials without restriction. Citizens holding the Rising Sun flag are enthusiastically cheering on the war against the monsters in various places. Next, the two national-level players leading the players...]

"So it's going to be like this after all."

Taehyun clicked his tongue.

The Saintess Yoshikawa Tsurara and the Sword Demon Nakata Shinji.

The influence of those two in Japan is immense.

That's why he hoped even more that they would move the Player Association Chairman to acknowledge Taehyun's rights.

To prevent greater damage and to prevent the deaths of innocent lives.

Three national-level players.

If Taehyun, who had even knelt another national-level player, joined, the odds of winning would increase exponentially.

If they truly cared about their citizens, they should have put aside their personal desires.

Taehyun thought that Chairman Kubota Masataka would at least have that much discernment.

"Was he just irredeemable trash?"

In the end, he abandoned the best hand and chose the worst hand according to his political desires.

There was nothing more to see.

Taehyun turned off the monitor and went back to training.

This time, he was going to raise his stamina stat with lower body exercises.

If it was just a simple number, facing monsters or demons would have been better, but he didn't dislike this kind of old-fashioned exercise method either.

'Right now, the first thing is to perfectly control my body.'

Less than a year after his regression, he had obtained the power of a national-level player.

It was a growth rate that exceeded expectations, and the more powerful he became, the more mysterious things happened.

'King. Archduke. The guy in the mental world. It's getting more and more complicated.'

Taehyun shook his head violently and moved his body.

With mechanical movements, the things that would happen in the future came to his mind.

It was a disaster that could no longer be called a break.

Osaka, Japan.

30,000 Self-Defense Forces troops and 1,000 players were gathered there.

It was to stop the monsters that had occupied Kyoto.

Military forces consisting of elite players and Awakened from Japan.

And there were civilians with an atmosphere that didn't fit there.

They were the fifty elite employees of Yuki Broadcasting, the only ones authorized to film by the government.

A man shouted loudly in front of them.

It was Yuki Broadcasting's director, Okudera Mizuno.

"Focus!! We are capturing a historic moment today!!! Does everyone understand!!"

"Yes!!!"

Forty-nine employees shouted in response to his cry.

Okudera, who stared at the scene with a satisfied expression for a moment, gave the order.

"Good!! Team A will capture the video of the Self-Defense Forces' activities. Team B will focus on capturing the players slicing up the monsters. Team C, which is in the air, will film the Sword Demon and the Saintess, so don't worry about them. The editing department will cut the footage and broadcast it as soon as it is filmed. Got it!!"

"Yes!!!"

Unilateral orders and acceptance, no different from the military.

At that time, a man quietly raised his hand.

It was Jake Maximum, who belonged to the video editing department.

As an American-Japanese, he couldn't understand the current instructions in a sensible way.

"Um... but it's a war... there will be many casualties... shouldn't we put effort into editing? Broadcasting with the same time difference as now may be somewhat inappropriate or sensational..."

Before he could finish speaking, Director Okudera shouted.

"What the hell!! What is our company motto?!"

"The truth... as it is."

At the murderous gaze of Director Okudera, he lowered his eyes and answered.

"Why are you talking nonsense when you know that?! We capture those who sacrifice for the country on camera and transmit it to the people as quickly as possible. Got it!!"

"Yes..."

"Your voice is too small!! Got it!!"

"Yes!! I, I understand!!"

At the persistently repeated question, Jake shouted without realizing it.

"Tsk tsk. If you stay still, you'll at least go halfway."

"That's right. What's wrong with doing what you're told in a good mood anyway?"

The atmosphere around him was mocking him as if asking why he had said such unnecessary things.

Strength entered Jake's fist, which was lowered.

'Assholes. They're so engrossed in viewership ratings, but they're pretending to be noble.'

Such thoughts filled his throat.

Fortunately, he knew that he shouldn't get on their bad side any more than this.

After that, Director Okudera's speech continued for about 5 more minutes.

'The Japanese people are waiting for our broadcast even at this moment.'

'This battle is the first step to recreating the glory of the Great Empire of Japan.'

'Shoot the video as sensationally as possible, and minimize editing.'

"B and A-grade players will escort the cameramen so that they can capture the vivid scene!! That's all!!!"

"Yes!!!"

Those gathered here were among the top elites of Yuki Broadcasting.

Everyone knew that the broadcasting station's president and Prime Minister Suga were relatives.

If this business trip was successfully completed, it would not end with just bonuses or promotions.

"Alright!! Then everyone, hurry up and move!!"

At Director Okudera's words, a loud shout erupted once again.

'Hoo... Let it be.'

Anyway, it was a job for which he was paid.

He also thought that he should just do what he was told like everyone else.

Kyoto.

It was already a place where everything had been destroyed.

There, those who shouldn't be on Earth were gathered in groups.

They were the monsters that had come over with the dungeon break.

They were scattering and gathering the humans who were still alive in one place.

"Hic... hic... Please save me..."

"Please... just spare the child..."

Humans and monsters cannot communicate.

Even so.

The survivors did not stop begging for their lives.

That's because there's not much that an ordinary person surrounded by dozens of monsters can do.

[Squeak. Squeak.]

[Grrrr.]

Surprisingly.

Orcs, Silver Fangs, Ogres, etc.

The monsters were drooling but not eating the humans.

It was a phenomenon that did not match the common sense that monsters have no intelligence and eat humans.

The Centaur, a high-ranking monster who was commanding the group.

He burst into laughter at those who were trying to figure out the situation.

I want to trample on these pitiful beings and chew them up right now.

But because the king ordered them to be captured, it was an action that should not be done now.

[Everything is as the king wills.]

The Centaur spoke with loyalty.

But to the ears of humans, it was just the growl of a monster.

Beomjin Temple was a famous temple in Kyoto.

One day.

A gate break occurred there.

Dozens of S-rank monsters were stopped at the cost of sacrifices.

But in the end, they couldn't stop the gate break from becoming a dungeon.

Japan's capture party, led by the Saintess and the Sword Demon, entered.

But the capture ended in failure with devastating damage.

Since then, the place, which was listed as a world uncaptured dungeon, was left unattended under strict surveillance.

It was a place where living things had not been near for a considerable amount of time.

That Beomjin Temple dungeon was broken.

And there.

Crackle. Crunch.

A being three times larger than a normal Centaur was tearing apart and eating a human.

The King of the Centaurs.

It was Centagenas, to whom the Japanese Player Association had unofficially given the SS rank.

A monster armored in heavy armor approached Centagenas.

It was the Grand Centaur, which was measured as S+ grade.

[Your Majesty. The humans are coming.]

At the report of his subordinate, Centagenas threw away the human he was tearing apart.

[It's finally time to hold a blood festival.]

[We have gathered the humans as per your majesty's command.]

The Grand Centaur bowed his head and said.

Humans are just food for them.

Nothing more, nothing less.

Even so, the reason why they are kept alive without being killed is purely because of the king's will.

Centagenas is the strongest of the Centaur clan, but he also has great wisdom.

That's why he was recognized by Orgal, the Beast King, the Archduke who ruled the Abyss, and was granted territory.

[Centamion. What is that child doing?]

[He is still staying in the dungeon and devouring the supplied humans.]

[Heh heh. Is it still not enough?]

Centagenas gave off a sinister laugh.

At the same time, he stomped on the head of a man begging for his life.

It was a player who was captured from the Kyoto branch.

The centaurs guarding him rushed in and began to tear him apart and eat him.

Centagenas, who smiled bitterly while watching the scene, raised his magic power.

[Begin the blood festival.]

It is the aura that an SS-rank monster emits.

With the signal of a huge magic wave spreading throughout Kyoto.

The advance of the monsters began.

Okay, here's the translation:

Episode 122

[We're sending you live footage from the scene. Our Yuki Broadcasting is using the world's first 5G video editing to bring you the battle scene as if it were live.]

The male announcer on the screen bowed with a gentle smile.

[Currently, you are watching the departure ceremony of the Self-Defense Forces and Players who are taking the first step in monster subjugation. For viewers who are unfamiliar with Players, we have invited BJ Durahan, a popular streamer with a B-rank Player license. Hello, BJ Durahan?]

The camera turned to show a young man.

[Ah, yes. Hello. I'm BJ Durahan, a Player and YouTuber.]

[Yes, nice to meet you. Summarizing the information so far... the monsters dominating the Beomjin Temple Dungeon are Centaur types. Can you briefly explain these monsters?]

BJ Durahan nodded at the announcer's question.

[Yes. The 'Centaur race' refers to a monster race with half of its body in the form of a horse and the other half in a human form.]

[An A-rank monster is impressive, but... is it powerful enough to bring down the Kyoto branch?]

BJ Durahan shook his head at the announcer's question.

[No. No matter how impressive a Centaur is, it's not enough to destroy the Kyoto branch. The problem is the S-rank 'Knight Centaur', the S+ rank 'Grand Centaur', and the 'Kentazenas,' which is designated as the third SS-rank monster of humanity.]

[Grand Centaur... and Kentazenas. These are monsters I've never heard of.]

[Yes. They are high-level monsters, so it's difficult for anyone who isn't an active Player to encounter them.]

[Could you give us a brief explanation?]

[First, the A-rank monster Centaur has been hunted quite a bit around the world. They only carry weapons without any armor, so even B-rank Players can attack them if they form a good party.]

[What about the S-rank monster, 'Knight Centaur'? I think I've heard of it.]

[It's more difficult to deal with than the Centaur because it's armored. However, the Sword Demon cut down a significant number of them in this friendly match. To fight them, you need at least an S-rank or a large number of A-rank Players... But even this is not a big problem considering the power of the Kyoto branch. I think the 'Grand Centaur' is the cause of the current situation.]

The announcer tilted his head at Durahan's words.

They had already discussed it, but it was to help the viewers understand.

[The Grand Centaur is a monster I've never heard of. Is it better than the Knight Centaur?]

BJ Durahan nodded vigorously and answered the question.

[It's on a different level from the monsters I mentioned earlier. You know that Kraken was the only SS-rank monster until recently, right?]

[Yes. A monster that no Player in the world has ever been able to handle. Is that right?]

[That's right. It doesn't reach that SS-rank level. But an existence with power that can't be compared to S-rank gets the title of 'Grand'. In other words, it's unpredictable with existing common sense. It means 'variant'.]

[Then how strong is Kentazenas?]

The announcer asked, acting with an increasingly stiff expression.

[Yes. What I heard through the Player community is all I know... But since the association officially gave it an SS-rank, they're considering it at least the same level as Kraken. SS-rank. It means it has the power to destroy a country.]

[The power to destroy a country... Then there's a high possibility that this terrible sacrifice won't stop in Kyoto.]

[Yes. As a Player and a citizen, I applaud the courage of the Japanese government and the Player Association in facing such an existence.]

[Let's talk about something hopeful. If this attack succeeds, will Japan get the title of being the first in the world to attack an SS-rank monster?]

[That's right. Japan will be the first to attack a monster that even the United States hasn't touched. Of course, it's heartbreaking that the citizens of Kyoto were sacrificed... But because the dungeon was broken, we can use modern weapons that didn't work in the Abyss. Personally, I think this attack is worth trying.]

BJ Durahan said with a confident tone.

[Yes. Thank you for the explanation. Now, let's go to Russia...]

"They're full of it."

Taehyun clicked his tongue as he watched the two men on the screen.

Disasters can shake a country, but they can also strengthen unity.

From that perspective, they were actors hired to incite the public.

They emphasize the unexpected strength of the monsters and praise the government's quick response.

You are citizens of this great country. So you can be proud.

He was disgusted by their self-serving attitude, still not grasping the situation.

The rising sun flag fluttered in the wind throughout the video.

The screen showed the attacking force being broadcast by Yuki Broadcasting.

30,000 military personnel and 1,000 Players.

The way they formed ranks and moved reminded him of a war in the Middle Ages.

[Breaking news. The Self-Defense Forces will launch twenty Hawk-Eye missiles shortly. The target is twenty locations, including the Beomjin Temple Dungeon. The government is willing to use napalm because it's judged that there are no survivors... Oh, look over there!! We see the monsters now... Ah... ?]

The shouting announcer's voice suddenly stopped.

"It's over."

Taehyun stood up as the video changed abruptly.

30,000 Self-Defense Forces personnel and 1,000 elite Players.

Before they all lost their lives.

It was Taehyun's turn to move.

Player Association Tokyo Branch.

At the command and control center there, Association President Kubota Masataka shouted.

He was speaking to the Self-Defense Forces General, who was standing next to him with a troubled expression.

"What are you talking about!! You can't use strategic weapons?!"

At Association President Kubota's roar, the Self-Defense Forces General opened his mouth.

"The monsters... are holding hostages. If our Self-Defense Forces use lethal weapons in this state, we may face backlash. Especially the bombing that the Air Force was planning..."

"Then!! Are you saying we should fight those many monsters with only 1,000 Players?!! Are you out of your mind!!"

"It's better to retreat temporarily now..."

"If we retreat here, Osaka is finished!! Then it's this Tokyo!! Does the General of the Self-Defense Forces of the Great Japanese Empire not know what that means!!"

The answer remained the same despite Association President Kubota's criticism.

"In any case... the use of lethal weapons is not allowed."

"How dare you... the Prime Minister has permitted it. Is the Self-Defense Forces General now disregarding that order... "

"The Prime Minister gave the order himself."

"What... did you say?"

"The Prime Minister called a little while ago. There are many eyes watching through the broadcast, so the use of weapons of mass destruction is prohibited... And if possible, to minimize casualties and eliminate the monsters... "

"These chikushō (bastards)!!!"

Kwaang.

Association President Kubota shouted and slammed the operation panel.

"This... This... slippery old man... !!"

Without weapons of mass destruction and strategic weapons.

The Self-Defense Forces, which are only individual Awakened, are of little help against high-level monsters.

All of this.

This was due to the fact that the satellites were not working properly due to the magical wavelength of Kentazenas.

'Chikushō... He's trying to make me a scapegoat.'

It's not surprising in the political world that today's comrades become tomorrow's enemies.

Prime Minister Suga is trying to put all the responsibility for this sudden situation on him.

He had to choose.

If he coerced the Self-Defense Forces General to force the use of strategic weapons, the odds of winning against the monsters would increase.

But even if the battle ended in victory, he would be remembered as a cold-blooded man who ignored the deaths of civilians.

Not to mention the next Prime Minister, he could end up rotting in prison for the rest of his life if he made a mistake.

On the other hand, if the battle was fought only by Players without the full support of the Self-Defense Forces.

'…….’

Just imagining it made him dizzy.

Whether to sacrifice himself to prevent greater damage.

Or to turn a blind eye to greater damage to protect himself.

'I'm... a man who will rise to greater heights. I can't end here.'

The thought didn't last long.

"Tell the Self-Defense Forces to equip machine guns and magical bullets to assist. The Players... will move as planned."

"Understood."

The Self-Defense Forces General said with a bitter expression.

The estimated number of monsters is 2,000.

It was not difficult to predict how much blood would flow.

"What nonsense are you talking about."

Sword Demon Nakata Shinji.

He growled with a voice mixed with rage.

The other party was Association President Kubota, who was connected by unstable radio waves.

"I'm sorry. It's a decision made from above."

Kwaang.

Nakata Shinji threw the phone away.

"Damn it. If that's the case, we should get support from other countries..."

Support from several countries, including Shinhan.

Japan rejected them to show the aspect of a hegemonic country.

They were thinking of breaking away from the image of a war criminal state in the process.

The Saintess approached him as he was angry.

"Shinji. This was bound to happen anyway. It's our role as Players to fight monsters."

"But... without the support of the Self-Defense Forces... the damage will be too great."

Nakata Shinji said, holding the Saintess's hand.

The two had developed into a romantic relationship due to 'the previous incident'.

"Hehe. Kim Taehyun. Did he even expect this to happen?"

"……."

Nakata Shinji was silent at her words.

Kim Taehyun.

Shinhan's national power.

The only man who has defeated China and Japan's national power.

He was a meaningful existence to both of them in many ways.

"There's no choice. We have to catch the Grand Centaur and Kentazenas."

"But... just the two of us... "

Nakata Shinji assumed defeat, unlike him.

Grand Centaur.

Those guys aren't a big problem.

Kkwak.

Nakata Shinji strongly grabbed his arm, which had been cut off several times in the past.

Kentazenas.

The wounds he suffered from him seemed to throb.

The Saintess smiled at the sight.

"Don't worry. You haven't used it on you yet, have you?"

"……?"

Before he could answer, the Saintess used the skill 'Holy Revelation'.

A pure white light enveloped Nakata Shinji's body.

"Transcend 'the wall'. Shinji."

At the same time as that word.

Tting.

[Strength has increased by 1.]

[Stamina has increased by 1.]

[Speed has increased by 1.]

[Magic power has increased by 1.]

[Strength….]

[Stamina….]

His physical abilities began to increase exponentially.

The constantly rising message window only subsided after a full three minutes.

He opened the status window.

"……!!"

Unbelievable numbers were recorded.

The wall as a national power that he had not been able to overcome.

That limit was broken with one skill from the Saintess.

"Hehe. Don't be surprised. The current status window is because you haven't been neglecting your training."

Nakata Shinji drew his beloved sword, Byakuya.

Kwaaaaa.

A huge ghastly energy exploded along with Byakuya.

'With this power….'

Kkwak.

He unconsciously put strength into the hand holding the sword.

Kentazenas.

No, even if the opponent was Taehyun, who made him kneel.

"I can do it."

He was confident that he would not lose to anyone right now.

Episode 123

"So, they've chosen war after all."

Ji Jin-hee sighed softly.

While it could have a mid-to-long-term impact on Shinhan, it was still just another country.

In the end, it was just Japan's problem.

Even so, he couldn't help but sigh, as it didn't feel like someone else's business.

"Chairman Kubota has made quite a radical choice. And to broadcast the footage almost live."

Ko Tae-wook said, watching the Yuki Broadcasting System's footage playing on the screen in the chairman's office.

"Haven't they always been like this? It's nothing new," Ji Jin-hee said, turning his gaze to the video.

A war was unfolding there.

The difference from the wars he knew was that it wasn't humans fighting humans, but humans fighting monsters.

It was like watching the pandemonium Ji Jin-hee had seen in his prime.

"Impressive."

Ji Jin-hee said sincerely.

Contrary to the information that they would reduce the number of monsters with bombings, the 30,000 Self-Defense Forces troops were scattered, engaging the monsters.

A-rank monster, Centaur.

Dozens of Centaurs were herding tens of thousands of humans they had dragged from Kyoto as if they were sheep.

"Survivors... High-level monsters are tough to deal with after all."

"I agree. From Japan's perspective, they've messed up from the very first step."

The 30,000 Self-Defense Forces troops were limited in the use of weapons of mass destruction.

All they had were rifles, grenades, Gatling guns, and tanks.

The tools of civilization spat fire.

And some Awakened ones used their skills.

It even felt like watching a movie.

[Kweh-eh-ehk!]

[Krararak!]

[Twee-ee-eek!]

Lower-level monsters died helplessly under the overwhelming attack.

Trolls and Ogres managed to withstand it for a while,

But before long, their bodies were also turned into pieces of meat and scattered.

The Self-Defense Forces relentlessly drove back the monsters.

Then.

The Centaurs, who had been watching from the back, pushed the humans forward.

They were using human shields.

The Centaurs began to swing the axes they were carrying.

The humans, feeling the threat to their lives, screamed and began to scatter in all directions.

In an instant, the Self-Defense Forces' firepower ceased.

But as if they had anticipated it,

The 30,000 Self-Defense Forces troops split to the sides in perfect order.

About a hundred players who had been preparing in the back activated their skills.

Kwahang. Kwahang. Kwahang. Kwahang.

A total of four barriers separated the Centaurs and the humans.

In that gap, hundreds of players surged forward.

The battle between monsters and players began.

The firepower of the Self-Defense Forces, which had retreated to the sides, started again.

"Brutal."

"But an excellent tactic."

A considerable number of monsters had already been eliminated.

Most of them were lower-level monsters.

But it was clear at a glance that the number of casualties on the Self-Defense Forces or players' side was low.

Above all, the deaths of the monsters, with their heads exploding and bodies being cut off, did not feel sensational at all.

"Did you feel it?"

Ko Tae-wook opened his mouth quietly.

Ji Jin-hee's expression darkened as he thought for a moment.

"Don't tell me... they're trying to make their own people desensitized to war... are they thinking of doing something like that...?"

"Yes... At least we can't help but suspect that."

Ko Tae-wook nodded.

The reason why the Japanese government, using Yuki Broadcasting System, was broadcasting footage almost live to the world.

At first, he thought it was simply to show off Japan's national power.

But until now, no broadcasting station had ever broadcast footage that was almost live.

Especially not footage filled with blood and gore.

Ji Jin-hee and Ko Tae-wook had always been wondering about that.

But now, through the video in front of them, they realized it.

Unlike players, civilians have few opportunities to encounter monsters.

The same goes for seeing monsters die.

Monsters are not animals.

They are evil spirits and monsters that devour people.

Therefore, even for humans who are seeing the death of a monster for the first time,

The deaths of the monsters in the video did not feel cruel or gruesome at all.

They were beings that deserved to be killed.

Beings that it wouldn't be strange to kill.

People were excited by the thought that the same 'people' were being killed.

And that excitement was making them insensitive to the deaths of monsters, and even to the deaths of their own people.

"I know who came up with it, but... it's a dangerous idea."

Ji Jin-hee had cut down a considerable number of monsters and demons,

But he couldn't help but frown at that unpleasant thought.

"I agree. This could easily lead to a bloodbath."

Until now, China's ambition alone had caused a considerable bloodbath.

China had just lost three national-level powerhouses and had consumed a considerable amount of national power in the unification war.

There would never be a better opportunity to compete for the Asian hegemony.

This was not a good sign for Shinhan, which aimed to be a neutral country.

"Still. For now, let's cheer for their victory."

Ji Jin-hee said, staring silently at the video.

He had dedicated his entire life to fighting monsters.

Historical distortion and territorial invasion.

Countless bad feelings could be listed against the Japanese government.

Still, life was more important than his personal feelings.

"The powerless people are innocent."

"Well, I thought you'd say that, Chairman."

Ko Tae-wook gave a wry smile.

He really didn't know how to do politics.

That's what he thought.

"But still, impressive."

"Wouldn't they be national-level powerhouses for nothing?"

Ko Tae-wook said, taking Ji Jin-hee's words and looking back at the screen.

Two men with the power of upper and middle-level S-rank monsters caught the eyes of the two men.

It was the Holy Woman Yoshikawa Tsurara and the Sword Demon Nakata Shinji.

Every time the Holy Woman swung the staff she was holding, the heads of the Centaurs were shattered.

Every time the Sword Demon swung his sword, the Centaurs lost their heads.

The same was true for the S-rank monster, Knight Centaur.

The two national-level powerhouses quickly slaughtered the high-level monsters.

Similarly, the S+ rank Grand Centaurs.

Japan's S-rank players were fighting well against them.

In the fierce battle, a path was quickly opened.

Behind the S-rank players' efforts, high-level players followed.

On both sides, the Self-Defense Forces were constantly firing.

"Save the hostages!!"

"Don't let the monsters mix in!!"

"Healers!! Prepare for mass healing!!"

In the midst of the chaos.

The Self-Defense Forces troops who had been waiting in advance began to take the hostages to the rear.

Many of them lost their lives, but conversely, many of them were saved.

Ko Tae-wook, who was watching, marveled quietly.

"I can understand the confidence to do a public broadcast."

"I agree."

Ji Jin-hee nodded in agreement.

If Shinhan's Rankers were summoned, could they use such a strategy?

They could.

But Kim Tae-hyun was essential for that.

The power to change the tide of the battle single-handedly.

National-level powerhouses were such beings.

"Are you thinking about Tae-hyun?"

"Hmm hmm. Thinking about the important personnel of the country is an essential virtue that the Chairman should have. By the way, what is Tae-hyun doing in this dangerous situation...?"

"Don't worry too much."

"Hmm?"

"I already put a trustworthy child to watch over him. Oh, I just got a call a little while ago..."

"Tell me quickly!!"

Ji Jin-hee shouted without realizing it.

He looked like a grandfather waiting for news of his grandson.

"Haha..."

Ko Tae-wook chuckled at the now familiar sight.

At that time, in Japan.

The video broadcast by Yuki Broadcasting System could easily be seen throughout Japan.

Everyone on the street

Stopped and focused their eyes on the large electronic billboards.

Just in time, the atmosphere was heating up as they were rescuing a large number of hostages.

"Kill them!! Those monsters!!"

"Show the power of Japan!!"

"Ganbare!!!"

In the midst of the shouting crowds.

Step. Step. Step.

Tae-hyun was leisurely walking towards his destination.

And.

Step. Step. Step. Step.

Someone was following Tae-hyun's steps.

'A tail... a player?'

Their skill at hiding their presence and tailing him was considerable.

But the magic power felt from the other person was only around E-rank.

The implication was simple.

The other person was at least an A-rank player or demon with excellent magic control.

Hehe.

Tae-hyun's lips curled up in the frenzy-filled street.

'Interesting.'

Tae-hyun's pace gradually quickened.

E-rank. D-rank. C-rank. B-rank. A-rank.

Swish. Swish.

It was not a speed that a low-level Awakened could follow with their eyes.

Even so, the presence following Tae-hyun did not disappear.

Tae-hyun increased his speed even more.

S-rank.

It was a speed that could not be followed unless their speed stat exceeded at least 100.

Even so, the speed with which they followed Tae-hyun did not falter.

'Look at this?'

Tae-hyun abruptly turned into an alleyway.

Tting.

[Skill Shadow Skin (AA) has been activated.]

Swisssssh.

'Shadow Skin' was created by merging 'Stone Skin' and 'Invisibility'.

His strengthened body naturally blended into nature.

It didn't even take a second for the other person to follow.

The woman belatedly entered the alleyway.

"……!!"

The woman who had been following Tae-hyun was momentarily taken aback by the empty alleyway.

But she soon hardened her expression and prepared to activate her skill.

It was to track Tae-hyun's trail.

Blue magic power bloomed from her body.

But.

"That's far enough."

Swisssssh.

Tae-hyun, who had deactivated his skill, revealed himself.

"……!!"

The woman hurriedly distanced herself from Tae-hyun, who had suddenly appeared.

It wasn't just the woman who was surprised.

"You... what are you doing here?"

It was an unexpected face.

Tae-hyun asked, unable to hide his bewildered expression.

The woman's face became like a child caught stealing.

"Hey."

"……."

"Im Ah-young?"

"I was just passing by..."

That flimsy excuse naturally didn't work.

"For someone who was just passing by, you were desperately chasing me, right? You were even trying to use a skill in this narrow alley."

"That's..."

Ah-young looked embarrassed.

Tae-hyun roughly understood the situation.

An A-rank player from Shinhan.

If that valuable resource was in Japan following him, the reason was obvious, wasn't it?

'The tables have turned, haven't they?'

The future had changed because of Tae-hyun's existence.

He remembered that she, who should have received an S-rank license, had received a B-rank license.

The power of an A-rank and S-rank license was like heaven and earth.

The public achievement points that had to be accumulated were also enormous.

'Well, an S-rank license wouldn't mean much to this kid...'

Tae-hyun couldn't stand being indebted to anyone.

"Kim Tae-hyun. More than that, Japan is dangerous right now..."

Tae-hyun put his hand over Im Ah-young's mouth, who was trying to change the subject.

"Im Ah-young."

"It's a misunderstanding..."

"You. Want to be my partner?"

"What?"

Ah-young's eyes seemed to be asking what nonsense he was spouting.

"If you're going to monitor me anyway, wouldn't it be better to move together?"

"……!!"

A series of events would unfold in the future.

Tae-hyun dragged her into that enormous chaos.

Episode 124

Taehyun took Ah-young to the Nightwalker Tokyo branch.

Nightwalker, along with Alchemist, had a branch in Tokyo.

Taehyun was authorized to visit there anytime.

That was what it meant to be a VVIP of the Big 4 guilds.

The arrival of the S-rank player and A-rank player from their home country briefly stirred up the branch.

"Hey, isn't that Kim Taehyun?"

"What brings him to Japan all of a sudden?"

"Is he perhaps… joining the war?"

"Nah. The Japanese government said they wouldn't accept personnel support."

"The woman next to him looks familiar too?"

They were whispering, but there was no way a player with good senses wouldn't notice.

The woman in charge of the guidance offered an awkward smile.

"You're so famous… I'm sorry."

"It's alright."

Taehyun replied as if he didn't mind.

He only needed to use the training room anyway.

"Here it is."

The training room the woman led them to was smaller than expected.

"It's small."

"Well, we're here on a dispatch basis, so…"

The woman trailed off awkwardly.

In short, they were too busy collecting information to focus on training.

"But by the guild leader's order, we did update the barrier recently. It can withstand the magic power of a low-level S-rank player. Around that level."

She puffed out her chest proudly.

Training room or sparring arena.

There were various names, but barriers that could withstand the magic power of an S-rank player were rare, even in Asia.

Was Taehyun's dual dungeon raid a stimulus?

Ah-young had been focusing on training her guild members recently.

Taehyun bowed his head to the woman.

"We'll use it well. You can go now."

After sending out the curious woman,

He pressed a button, and the barrier of the training room activated.

As the woman said, it was set to match the power of a low-level S-rank player.

Ah-young watched the barrier forming around her and sighed softly.

She had followed him after being suddenly told to become his partner, but now this test.

Ah-young belatedly realized that he was trying to test her strength.

Conversely.

"Don't worry. I won't go all out."

Taehyun provoked her casually.

There was nothing as effective as simple provocation.

Ah-young's beautiful brows furrowed slightly.

"Kim Taehyun. I know you're strong, but… I haven't been just playing around either."

Rather, as the rising rookie of Shin-Hanguk, she had achieved the fastest promotion from B-rank to A-rank.

And that wasn't all.

She was now confident that she could easily hold her own against an active S-rank player.

Of course, that didn't apply if the opponent was a national-level player.

"That's what you need to prove."

Taehyun smiled and distanced himself from her.

It wasn't a large place.

Even if he distanced himself, he could close the gap in two steps if he used his full power.

"Five minutes. If your attack lands on me even once within that time, I'll admit defeat."

"……!!"

It was truly an outrageous advantage.

She was momentarily taken aback by his arrogance.

Ah-young belatedly remembered her mission.

"Kim Taehyun. Instead of doing this here, it's better to go to Shin-Hanguk quickly…"

"Go to Shin-Hanguk? To prepare for a gate break that might happen anytime?"

"……."

"Since when has Shin-Hanguk depended on me alone?"

"You're a player of Shin-Hanguk. Association President Ji Jinhee also said…"

"I can roughly guess what orders you received… but I don't listen to anyone's orders. That's why I became an S-rank. Ah, you're not an S-rank, so it might be hard to understand?"

"You…!!"

Ah-young's face flushed red as she tried to maintain her composure.

'How simple.'

She was different from her sister, Yoo Ah-young.

Im Ah-young was still young and didn't know the world well enough.

The proof was that she didn't have the murderous intent typical of high-level players.

Overwhelming talent.

She probably hadn't even killed any monsters or demons yet, relying on that power.

So.

'It wouldn't be bad to stimulate her a little.'

Overwhelming fear. Anxiety. Frustration. Or even greater power.

As an 'adult,' Taehyun decided to show her what the real world of players was like.

"If I win…"

"Then, without another word, I'll return to Shin-Hanguk. If you win, you have to be faithful to your role as a partner."

"...Alright."

Ah-young answered without hesitating, and Taehyun grinned.

Blue magic power overflowed from her body.

A narrow space.

The versatility of her skills.

Her skills as an S-rank player.

Considering everything.

'I have a chance of winning.'

Confidence bloomed in Ah-young's eyes.

Taehyun wasn't going to miss that.

"Unfortunately, that won't happen."

Tring.

[Skill Ice Age (S) has been activated.]

[Skill Lord's Ferocity (AA) has been activated.]

The two's skills activated simultaneously.

Smash. Smash. Crash.

The ice shards shattered into pieces by the enormous magic power.

It was easily broken, hard to believe it contained S-rank magic power.

Thud.

"Haa… haa…"

Ah-young knelt down, gasping for breath.

Five minutes.

She had poured out all her techniques during that time.

She blocked Taehyun's retreat with 'Ice Age.'

She approached Taehyun with 'Body Enhancement.'

She strengthened the belt around her waist with 'Weapon Enhancement.'

The youngest S-rank player in Shin-Hanguk.

Shin-Hanguk's first national-level player.

Aside from the unbelievable achievements and titles Taehyun had accumulated.

She thought she could at least land one hit on him, having trained like crazy all this time.

It was a delusion.

'I can't… reach him.'

She poured out all her magic power.

She used all her skills.

Yet, she was the one kneeling after five minutes.

Taehyun was looking down at her, not tired at all.

It was as if a huge mountain was standing there.

Kuuuuuu.

Only then did Taehyun release his skill.

Grip.

She clenched her fist involuntarily.

She realized how weak her own power was.

Watching Ah-young, Taehyun opened his mouth.

"Passed."

"What…?"

"It seems certain that you've reached S-rank. Although you're still at the lower level."

Crunch.

Ah-young bit her lip.

"Are you pitying me?"

"Of course not. The work we're going to do from now on will only be a burden if you're not at least S-rank. I was just confirming it in advance."

Taehyun recalled the dual dungeon he had raided with Yoo Ah-young.

She had the strength to be a worthy partner.

"How kind of you."

Ah-young said sarcastically, getting up.

Thinking that Taehyun was probably the only one who would talk about being a 'burden' to a skilled S-rank player.

"So? What are you planning to do?"

"Why else would I come all the way to Japan in this situation?"

"Don't tell me you… you're going to interfere in the war? But with the current momentum, there's no need to…"

Ah-young had been checking information on the side while following Taehyun.

No, they were broadcasting war footage almost live everywhere.

It would be strange if she didn't check.

Japan had lost Kyoto and suffered a lot of damage.

But they were gathering their strength and steadily dealing with the monsters.

Of course, it would only be over after the two national-level players caught the SS-rank monster.

At least, she understood why they had rejected Shin-Hanguk's support.

"Well, that might be true now."

Taehyun operated the remote control, and a screen turned on in front.

The screen showed the Saintess and the Sword Demon.

And the one they were facing was the culprit behind all these breaks.

The SS-rank monster, Kentazenus.

After a war of attrition, they had broken through the S-rank and S+ rank monsters and finally reached the final boss.

Purple magic power exploded from the Sword Demon's body as he activated his skill.

White magic power flowed from the Saintess's body in contrast.

It was an overwhelming power that could be felt even by those on the other side of the screen.

'That guy. Did he get a buff or something.'

The unique-grade Baekya was trembling because it couldn't contain all the dark energy.

Ah-young watched the two national-level players and admired them.

It was still a distant realm for her.

But.

"That's not enough. Let's move."

Taehyun coldly assessed and left the training room.

"Wait for me!!"

Ah-young hurriedly followed behind him.

When the Saintess used the skill 'Super-Speed Regeneration', the Sword Demon's body began to recover quickly.

The S+ rank monster, 'Grand Centaur'.

It was a wound caused by cutting down the two monsters that had blocked their path.

It wasn't even a minor injury, but there was no need to save any more magic power before the final battle.

"We finally meet again."

Sword Demon, Nakata Shinji.

He controlled the dark energy overflowing from his body and stared at the enemy in front of him.

"Don't be careless, Shinji."

The Saintess retreated and said.

She was also a national-level player.

But she couldn't compare to the combat-type Sword Demon.

Her role would be thorough support.

The battle would be 1 vs 1, not 2 vs 1.

"Of course. But this time will be very different."

Kwaaaaaaaa.

The dark energy contained in Baekya exploded.

His skill 'Soul Taker' absorbed the magic power of those he cut down, increasing his stats.

He had cut down hundreds of monsters to get here.

His body, further enhanced by the Saintess's skill, was already activating his skills to the limit.

'I can't maintain this state for long.'

Maintaining the boiling dark energy in his body would probably take about 10 minutes.

If he couldn't settle the score before then.

'This war will be lost.'

Grip.

His hand holding Baekya involuntarily tightened.

It was time to fit the last puzzle piece to end the war.

[Have you come, king of the insects.]

Kentazenus chuckled and raised his halberd.

Kwaaaaaaaa.

Enormous magic power flowed from the halberd.

It was a temporary release of the energy he had been accumulating.

And.

Kug.

He 'lightly' slammed the halberd into the ground.

The ripple effect was by no means light.

Crack. Crack. Crrrrraack.

The surrounding land began to split.

"What, what is this!!"

"Evacuate!!"

"Kuaaack!!!"

[Kieeeeek!!]

[Kuaaaaa!!]

[Chwiik!!]

It was instantaneous.

The split ground swallowed humans and monsters alike, like the jaws of a beast.

The movements of the monsters and humans who had been fiercely fighting stopped.

[The festival begins.]

At that word, the monsters began to roar.

No, it was closer to a roar.

'After all, we can't talk about victory without cutting down that guy.'

Swish.

Just as he was about to re-grip Baekya, stained with blood, after making a decision.

Everyone rushed to Kentazenus and swung their swords in the blink of an eye.

Clang!!

Kentazenus easily blocked the attack with his halberd.

"……!!"

[……!!]

The players and monsters nearby were speechless at the unbelievable speed.

The parties involved reacted as if it was nothing.

[Struggle a little more, insect.]

Kentazenus sneered in the language of monsters.

The battle was heading towards its climax.

Okay, here's the translation of Chapter 125:

Chapter 125

Taehyun went to the Tokyo branch of the Japanese Player Association.

Ayoung followed beside him with a nervous expression.

"I would like to meet with Association President Kubota Masataka."

Taehyun said, showing his S-rank license to the player guarding the entrance.

"……!!"

"Kim Taehyun?!!"

Someone watching hastily brought their hand to their earpiece.

A short time later.

Taehyun and Ayoung were guided to a reception room.

It was a speedy process for meeting the head of a country's Player Association.

A method only possible because he was not a normal S-rank player, but a national-level powerhouse.

"……."

Ayoung, who had watched everything from the side, was made to think once again about Taehyun's status.

Association President Kubota entered less than five minutes later.

"Who do we have here? What brings Asia's pride all the way here?"

His face was much brighter than the last time they met, making it hard to believe he was the commander-in-chief of the war.

He glanced at Taehyun and Ayoung beside him.

"And this is...?"

"I am..."

"I'll get straight to the point."

Before Ayoung could introduce herself, Taehyun spoke first.

"The uncaptured dungeon. Ah, it's not a dungeon anymore, I suppose. Anyway, you need to acknowledge my rights to it."

Caught off guard by the unexpected words, Association President Kubota momentarily wore a blank expression.

And then.

"Keuk... Kehahaha."

Understanding Taehyun's words, he burst into laughter.

Taehyun also wore a friendly smile.

"……."

Ayoung and the surrounding Japanese players.

They stared at the two with stiff expressions.

Association President Kubota stopped laughing.

"Did Association President Ji Jinhee send you?"

"It's my personal decision. And a matter of 'obvious right'."

At Taehyun's words, he frowned.

"Right, you say... Why should I? The Break has already happened. How to deal with these monsters is our concern now."

He wasn't wrong.

The rights Taehyun had were only to the 'uncaptured dungeon'.

Now that the monsters inside the dungeon had burst out.

Uncaptured dungeons no longer existed in Japan.

Of course, not a single monster had appeared yet.

There was no need to tell him that.

"I understand your confidence. But this war will end miserably."

"Impudent."

Association President Kubota glared at Taehyun with murderous intent.

Taehyun was not one to be intimidated by that.

He shrugged as if unconcerned and continued speaking.

"Let me tell you about the three mistakes you've made."

"Why would I listen to..."

Taehyun ignored him and spoke first.

"First. You should have fulfilled your promise before the Break happened. Then, there would have been no need for so many people to die like this."

"...That's just hindsight."

Association President Kubota scoffed.

He nodded, as if to say he would listen to the other two.

"Second. You should have accepted help from other countries. You should have ended imperialistic ambitions as delusions."

"Hmph. I'll tell you again, that's not something outsiders should concern themselves with."

Association President Kubota's face was slowly turning red.

An outsider daring to read his inner thoughts so well.

And not stopping there, openly criticizing the Association President.

As the Saintess or Sword Demon had done, it was an audacity only national-level powerhouses could exhibit.

'Impudent...'

As Association President Kubota was quietly grinding his teeth.

Taehyun brought up the last mistake.

"Third. Normal monsters can't even think about taking humans hostage."

Hearing those words, Association President Kubota chuckled.

His expression suggested "Is that all?"

He opened a screen installed in the reception room.

Immediately, a video being broadcast by Yuki Broadcasting appeared.

The Self-Defense Forces pouring firepower onto low-level monsters and players unleashing skills.

Meanwhile, the citizens of Kyoto who had been taken hostage were being moved to the rear.

"Look there. See the soldiers of our Great Japanese Empire rescuing those many people. Something Shin Korea can only dream of, wouldn't you say?"

At the blatant taunt, Ayoung flinched.

But Taehyun only shook his head.

"Oh dear, you've misunderstood what I meant."

"What?"

"I heard three SS-rank monsters appeared in Russia. What makes you so sure that only one appeared in Japan?"

"Association President Ji Jinhee and you both underestimate our Great Japanese Empire too much. Do we look so foolish that we can't even properly assess the enemy's strength?"

He changed the channel.

The battle between the Sword Demon and Kentauros was being displayed there.

The Sword Demon's sword pierced Kentauros' chest, and Kentauros' halberd cut off one of the Sword Demon's arms.

At the same time, the Saintess's 'Hyper Regeneration' regenerated the Sword Demon's arm.

Attack and defense again. More attack and defense.

As time passed, wounds accumulated on Kentauros' body one by one.

It was a movement that even high-speed cameras couldn't keep up with.

Ayoung slightly parted her lips.

Kentauros, who was effortlessly inflicting serious injuries on the national-level Sword Demon, was amazing, and the Sword Demon, who continued to pressure Kentauros while taking those attacks, was also amazing, and the Saintess' skill proficiency in supporting the Sword Demon at the appropriate timing was also amazing.

But if this became a prolonged battle.

If the S-rank players fighting the Grand Kentauros joined in?

Gulp.

'There's a good chance of winning.'

Ayoung swallowed hard as she thought so.

It was a monster of SS rank.

Japan, which only possessed two national-level powerhouses, was about to take down such a monster for the first time.

The sacrifice of the few for the sake of the many.

Numerous soldiers, civilians, and players would fall on the battlefield.

But as the saying goes, crisis is opportunity.

If they could stop this Break on their own.

No country would criticize Japan's military build-up anymore.

Ayoung, who had only been thinking about the victims until now, thought about the 'aftermath of the war' for the first time.

'It's dangerous.'

Only then did she think she understood why Taehyun was trying to intervene in this war.

"Hehe... You're afraid that after the war ends, that blade will be directed at Shin Korea, are you?"

"……."

Seeing Taehyun with nothing to say, Association President Kubota burst into wild laughter.

He thought they were cornered, unable to use strategic weapons.

But as the saying goes, a blessing in disguise.

The Sword Demon's power had become stronger than he thought.

So much so that Taehyun's words sounded like nonsense.

"Get lost back to your country. Once this holy war is over, I will formally protest your words and actions. Association President Ji Jinhee's expression will be worth seeing."

Holy war.

Association President Kubota was already packaging the disaster caused by his mistake as such.

There was no reasoning with him.

Nor could he forcefully subdue the head of a country's association.

Taehyun sighed, as if there was no other choice.

"Well, I was hoping you wouldn't make a fourth mistake."

"I'll make you an offer while we're at it."

Taehyun gestured for him to speak.

"Become a naturalized citizen of Japan. Then, you'll enjoy even more than you did in Shin Korea..."

"Ah, I received that offer in America as well."

"...Too bad."

"More importantly. Would you mind if I watched this 'holy war' a little longer here?"

Taehyun asked with a nonchalant expression.

At those words, the corners of Association President Kubota's lips rose.

He thought there was a chance that Taehyun's heart might change belatedly.

"Huhu. I'll be in the operations room, so feel free to tell me if you change your mind. Make sure you take good care of these gentlemen."

Five Japanese players stood behind Taehyun and Ayoung.

A clear surveillance, as if to say they would not tolerate any nonsense.

"What are you planning to do?"

Ayoung asked, not hiding her worried expression.

"Just what I said. Let's watch for a while."

"But if this becomes a diplomatic issue..."

Pfft.

Taehyun let out a chuckle before he could stop himself.

He thought she was being overly worried for someone who would become an SS-rank player in the future.

"It's okay. It won't take that long anyway."

Taehyun turned his gaze to the battle between the Sword Demon and Kentauros.

'More importantly, where is that guy...'

Association President Kubota and many others were making a mistake.

The monster that drove Japan to the brink of destruction in his past life was not 'Kentauros'.

A monster that was evaluated as a disaster because even SS-rank players had difficulty dealing with it alone.

SS+ rank monster Kentamion.

'Where are you?'

Taehyun, recalling the appearance of that terrifying guy, quietly watched the battle.

At that time.

The Japanese people were more excited than ever.

3rd place in the friendly match.

Before they could even accept that incomprehensible ranking, the Beomsinsa Dungeon broke, costing the lives of many citizens.

They had fallen behind China and then Shin Korea.

Japan was no longer a strong country.

Such dark thoughts spread through society like an infection.

A sense of defeat was rampant from the successive shocks.

But not now.

The video coming from the billboards reminded them that their thoughts were mistaken.

"Sword Demon!! Ganbare!!!"

"Ganbare!!!"

The Sword Demon's blood-stained Byakuya pierced Kentauros.

Kentauros' halberd deeply cut the Sword Demon's waist.

But the Saintess' skill immediately healed the wound.

At the same time, the Sword Demon concentrated all his mana into Byakuya.

Puwaaaaaak.

The giant Kentauros staggered backward from the mana stirring inside him.

The first step back.

And the first time he grimaced.

"Waaaaaaa!!!"

Cheers erupted from everywhere.

Emboldened by the two national-level powerhouses' valiant fight, the momentum of the players and Self-Defense Forces fighting other monsters also rose.

They could win.

They could rise to the position of great power once again.

Rising sun flags were waving everywhere in the streets.

"Sword Demon!! Sword Demon!! Sword Demon!!"

"Shinji!! Shinji!! Shinji!!"

"Saintess!! Saintess!! Saintess!!"

People began to shout as if possessed by something.

Even those who were not familiar with battle could tell.

This battle would soon come to an end.

That's why they widened their eyes and focused on their battle, which they couldn't even see properly, their battle that even high-speed cameras couldn't capture.

Clang. Clang. Claaang.

Thwack. Thwack. Thwaack.

Swish.

The Sword Demon and Kentauros' battle gradually became more intense.

An arm was cut off, a leg was cut off, the waist was cut off.

Even so, swallowing the pain.

The Sword Demon advanced.

And.

A single strike.

His Byakuya, filled with all his mana, reached Kentauros.

Swish.

Kentauros' lower body, protected by an unknown armor.

The place that had never allowed an attack until now was cut by the Sword Demon.

Kooong!!

Two of the four legs were cut off.

The giant Kentauros collapsed as it was.

It was as if the loser was kneeling to the winner.

"Waaaaaaa!!!"

"We won!!!"

"Shinji!!!"

Kentauros' face, contorted with pain, was zoomed in on.

"Finish it!! Shinji!!!"

Following that, the Saintess shouted, and Byakuya, imbued with purple mana, was swung to cut off Kentauros' head.

No, it was the moment it was swung to cut off.

Puh-wack!!

'Something' that appeared in the blink of an eye slammed into the Sword Demon.

"W-what is that...?"

"What's so big?!"

"Where did it suddenly come from?!"

People were panicked by the sudden intrusion of the monster.

A moment later, their panic turned into shock.

"Uh...uh...?"

"Crazy..."

Crunch. Crunch. Crunch.

The newly appeared giant monster.

It began to tear Kentauros apart and eat it.

Episode 126

The appearance of a new monster.

The first to react were two national-level powerhouses.

The prepared Swordsman blocked the Saintess.

Saintess Yoshikawa Tsurara.

She trembled slightly.

"Shinji... that thing..."

"Yeah. It's a 'monster.'"

"……!!"

He raised his broken arm and said.

Even after guarding with White Night, one arm was broken.

The Saintess quickly used her skill.

'Hyper Regeneration' instantly restored the Swordsman's body to its original state.

The two turned their eyes to the newly appeared monster.

A Kentazenus that looked three times larger than a normal centaur.

Its size was 1.5 times larger than that of such a Kentazenus.

Crunch. Crunch.

Its huge arms moved busily, tearing and eating the Kentazenus's limbs.

A monster that devours its own kind, even an SS-rank monster.

The sight was so unbelievable that all monsters and humans focused their attention.

And.

Splurt.

The unidentified monster finally began to eat the Kentazenus's head.

"……!!"

"A... A..."

"No way..."

"Crazy..."

At that moment, everyone was of one mind.

The king of the monsters they had fought to the death just moments ago was dead.

By cannibalism.

Tremble. Tremble.

The hand holding White Night trembled slightly.

Although he had cut off its legs, the Kentazenus was not an existence that ordinary monsters could kill without a second thought.

Even after losing both legs, it possessed power that easily surpassed S+ rank.

'That thing that devoured such a creature without a second thought, what is it...'

Before the Swordsman could gather his thoughts.

High-level players who had finished their battles gathered around him.

"Shinji-nim. What is that thing..."

"Should we use our skills..."

"Get back!!!"

The Swordsman's shout and 'that thing's' movement were simultaneous.

The thing that finished devouring raised its hand.

Mana pulsed in the area.

Pop. Pop pop. Pop pop pop pop pop.

It was like balloons bursting.

Dozens of high-level players who had gathered around the Swordsman.

Their solid bodies burst rapidly.

"Kuh..."

The Swordsman, who had protected himself by surrounding his body with mana, groaned.

Such power from simply releasing mana.

Hwaaa.

The Saintess's mana enveloped his body, which was burning as if he had been burned.

The recovery didn't last long.

"Shinji, dodge!!!"

Thud.

His body, which he had reflexively guarded, flew into the air once again.

The moment he landed and tried to unleash sword energy.

Crack.

"……!!"

White Night (白夜), the unique item that was practically his trademark.

A long crack ran along its pure white blade.

"Tch. What the hell are you? You monster."

The Swordsman muttered, spitting out blood.

It had withstood dozens of halberd strikes from SS-rank monsters without a scratch.

For such an item to crack after blocking just two body slams.

Moreover, the monster seemed to not care about him at all, continuing to devour the corpses of dead players.

"You!!!"

The enraged Swordsman fired off sword energy.

The purple sword energy struck the monster's body.

Only then did the monster stop moving.

The monster opened its grotesque mouth towards the Swordsman.

"Human... bug... eat..."

"What...?"

It was clearly Japanese.

A chill ran down his spine at the unexpected response.

The monster opened its mouth again towards the Swordsman.

This time, the voice was more refined than before.

"Human... Kentamion... I... new king..."

"……!!"

Red mana flowed from the body of the thing that identified itself as Kentamion.

"Human... eat all."

He raised both feet as if roaring.

Thud!!!

Crack. Crack crack.

The ground began to split with a single stomp.

"E, escape!!"

"Get back!!"

"Aaaaah!!!"

Some monsters and humans were sacrificed in the splitting ground.

Kentamion's actions did not stop there.

Thud!! Thud!! Thud!!!

As if showing off its power, it continued to stomp its feet.

Each time, the area split and the earth shook.

An unprecedented earthquake.

By now, the aftereffects would have reached Tokyo.

'At this rate, we'll be annihilated.'

The Swordsman, having made his decision, poured mana into White Night.

Woong. Woong. Woong.

White Night, imbued with purple mana, cried out violently.

Physical abilities enhanced by the Saintess's skill 'Holy Revelation'.

And once again, he surpassed the 'wall' with his skill 'Soul Taker'.

Mana exceeding the level when he inflicted a fatal wound on Kentazenus moments ago.

His entire power was poured into White Night.

'First, I'll stop its actions.'

When Kentamion raised its foot once more.

Kwaaaaaaa.

He rushed forward and unleashed White Night.

He thought it was the perfect timing to pierce Kentamion's chest.

Soon, White Night would be embedded in its chest, and his eerie mana would eat away at its body from the inside.

Or so he thought.

Clang.

White Night, unable to penetrate Kentamion's chest, was repelled.

A sound like two weapons colliding echoed.

"...?!!"

Before he could accept the unbelievable reality.

Kentamion grabbed the Swordsman's body with its massive hand.

"Kyak!!!"

The Swordsman screamed in pain, feeling as if his entire body was being crushed.

"Shinji!!!"

The Saintess shouted and quickly activated her skill.

Pure white light enveloped the Swordsman.

'Hyper Regeneration'.

A 'different class' skill that could heal any wound as long as he didn't die.

"Uaaaaaaa!!!"

Emboldened by the Saintess's skill, the Swordsman exerted all his strength.

To escape from Kentamion's hand.

But.

Smirk.

Kentamion raised its other hand with a sinister smile.

A simple fist that didn't contain mana and seemed unremarkable on the surface.

"Die. Bug."

"……!!"

Whooong.

Space rippled along the trajectory of the swung fist.

"No!!!"

The Saintess shouted belatedly.

But Kentamion's fist had already reached the Swordsman.

Thud.

One-sided violence and murder.

That was all there was to it.

Thump.

Chairman Kubota, who had been watching all of this in the command and control room, collapsed to the ground.

The others around him were the same.

The Self-Defense Forces and players who had been cheering just moments ago.

They were staring at the screen with blank expressions.

The newly appeared monster.

The monster who identified himself as Kentamion had blown the Swordsman's head off.

'No way... the Swordsman... there's no way he could die from something like this...'

The alias "Demon Sword" (鬼劍) was not earned for nothing.

He possessed national-level skills and talent, as well as diligence and a sense of duty.

He was such a perfect man that the Chinese Player Association had unofficially offered him naturalization.

Even if this Holy War failed.

He was certain that he would never die as long as he had the Saintess's support.

The sword that would realize his ambition, a sword that would never break.

And yet, his torso was being shaken while caught in the monster's hand.

With his head shattered.

"A... A... No way..."

"Sw, Swordsman..."

"This... can't be..."

Those who belatedly recognized the reality showed despairing reactions.

They didn't want to accept what had happened before their eyes.

But the sight of the Saintess wailing and using her skills.

And the Swordsman's body, which was not regenerating, confirmed the reality.

Swordsman Nakata Shinji.

He was no longer of this world.

Chairman Kubota stared at the screen with a despairing expression.

Kentamion, who had thrown away the Swordsman's corpse, let out a roar.

The players and Self-Defense Forces in the area began to be mercilessly trampled.

[Kuaaaaa.]

[Kieeeeeek.]

[Krrr.]

The tilted battle situation instantly shifted to the monsters.

A one-sided massacre began.

"A... Aah..."

Those who could be said to be the elite of Japan were dying without being able to offer any resistance.

"R, run away!!"

"Get out of the way!!"

"Aaaaah!!!"

Blood splattered on the screen.

Even the person holding the camera had suffered an accident.

Fzzzt.

Fzzzzzzzt.

The dozen or so cameras connected to the command and control room began to turn off one by one.

Eventually, only one camera remained, filming from the sky.

But even that.

Kwaaaang.

Fzzzzzzzzzzzzzt.

The screen went out with the sound of an explosion.

Once again, silence fell.

Countless hypotheses flashed through Chairman Kubota's mind.

The monster that devoured the SS-rank monster Kentazenus.

The monster that killed the national-level powerhouse Swordsman with a single punch.

Could Japan have any chance of winning against such a monster?

No.

'We can't win.'

He also knew as a player.

That the new monster was not an existence that could be dealt with by strategic weapons or nukes.

"Ch, Chairman?"

"C, Commander, orders..."

Subordinates in a state of panic looked at Chairman Kubota.

'Ah, no...'

He unknowingly took a step back and began to leave the command and control room.

Ignoring the bewildered gazes and calls from those around him, he stumbled.

The place he arrived at was the Chairman's office.

He rummaged through the drawers.

A custom-made revolver was grasped.

'It's all over. Japan is over.'

Now the monster army would cross Osaka and head to Tokyo.

Japan no longer had the power to stop them.

Considering their speed of movement.

Tokyo would be captured before support from other countries arrived.

Click.

He aimed the revolver at his head.

Prime Minister Suga would put all the blame on him.

But either way, he wouldn't be safe either.

He could already hear screams.

He was about to pull the trigger of the revolver.

"Suicide, huh. So you're going to make it easy for yourself alone."

"……!!"

Ssssst.

Taehyun appeared in front of Chairman Kubota.

With an expression as if he knew he would come here, as if he was tired of waiting.

"Y, you are..."

Chairman Kubota's face was dyed with bewilderment.

Taehyun sighed slightly at the sight.

He knew the future.

He knew that such a sacrifice would happen.

Even so, he couldn't stop it.

'But what's done is done anyway.'

He had no intention of feeling guilty late.

Now, he only had to do what he had to do as a player.

"I won't say much. Hand over the ownership of the uncaptured dungeon."

"What are you talking about now..."

Chairman Kubota unknowingly made excuses.

But Taehyun shook his head.

"This is not a suggestion, it's an order."

"……!!"

"In the current situation, you only have one choice left. So."

Taehyun's lips turned up with a bitter smile as his eyes turned red.

"Accept it."

The player association chairman of Japan, Kubota Masataka.

The national-level player of Shin Korea, Kim Taehyun.

It didn't take long for the two to make an 'Oath of the Awakened'.

Okay, here's the translation of the provided text:

Chapter 127

It was a one-sided massacre.

Monsters trampled and devoured fleeing humans.

Some, led by high-level players, tried to resist, but the tide had already completely turned.

It was the result of the futile death of a national-level power.

Not a battlefield, but a scene of slaughter.

In the middle of it all, the Saintess cried out.

Unlike herself, who had lived as a psycho, Sword Demon Nakata Shinji had been a consistent man.

They had shared the name of national-level power, and he had always stood by her side, turning a blind eye to her misdeeds.

At one time, she had thought he was a boring man.

She thought he was a coward who didn't know how to enjoy thrills and couldn't muster the courage even though he liked her.

Kim Tae-hyun of New Korea.

Perhaps that was why she was drawn to the confident and arrogant him.

She got what she wanted no matter what, and Tae-hyun was the first person she had ever failed with.

Tae-hyun's skill, 'Perfect Hypnosis'.

She had experienced hell after being subjected to that skill.

If Tae-hyun hadn't returned and freed her from the nightmare, she would still be wandering in that endless nightmare.

"Why."

The Saintess murmured quietly.

What she gained in exchange for obeying Tae-hyun was a new world.

She had ended her psycho life.

She belatedly accepted the man who had stood by her side.

But then.

"Why did you have to die, Shinji."

Drip.

It felt as if something had snapped in her head.

Whooooosh.

At the same time, white mana sprang from her body.

The skill was exploding due to her unstable mental state.

Ting.

[Skill Ultra-Fast Regeneration (S) has been activated. Targeting the subject.]

[Skill Holy Revelation (S) has been activated. Targeting the subject.]

Two skills were activated simultaneously, accelerating mana consumption.

The amount of time she could sustain this state was not long.

Crack.

She bit her lip and jumped into the battlefield.

Finding her target was not difficult.

Kentauros.

He was emitting a massive amount of mana and devouring humans.

After she leaped.

She brought her staff down on the top of the head of the object of her hatred.

Clang!!!

The unique-grade staff slammed down on Kentauros' crown.

'Hard!'

Although she was a national-level power, she was a type specialized in magic and skills.

This kind of close combat was bound to be inferior to Sword Demon.

The Saintess retreated and watched the opponent's movements.

Kentauros, who had been devouring humans, turned his gaze to her.

"Saintess... Yoshikawa Tsulala...?"

Kentauros smiled as he said that.

A monster that speaks human language and mimics emotional expressions.

More than anything, his language skills had noticeably developed in a short time.

'Could it be... learning by eating humans.'

She felt chills at the absurd hypothesis.

But that was the only way to understand the situation now.

And then, just as she was about to surge forward again.

Thwack.

Kentauros, who had approached in the blink of an eye, raised his forefoot and kicked her in the abdomen.

"Cough...!!"

It was clear that her internal organs were not only mixed up, but also severed.

She spat out a considerable amount of blood.

Whoooooosh.

At the same time, two skills were activated.

The first skill, 'Ultra-Fast Regeneration'.

The wound healed in the blink of an eye.

The second skill, 'Holy Revelation'.

The brainwashing to 'do not retreat, kill the enemy' was activated.

She felt her physical stats increase dramatically.

Forgetting her fear, her body surged forward again.

At this moment, she looked more like a berserker than a Saintess.

Clang!! Clang!! Clang!!!

The unique-grade staff struck Kentauros' body.

Not a single scratch appeared on his hard skin.

"Saintess. You're weaker than I thought."

"How dare you!!!"

The excited Saintess raised her staff once more.

Kentauros, who had been silent, flicked his fingers.

Bang.

The Saintess's arm, which was holding the staff, flew off.

"Eek...!!!"

She regenerated her arm in an instant and swung her fist.

Kentauros flicked his fingers again.

Bang.

Similarly, her fist exploded.

"It's useless!!!"

The Saintess shouted and wildly swung her fists and feet.

Bang. Bang. Bang.

Her fists exploded, her legs exploded.

Each time, 'Ultra-Fast Regeneration' was activated, and her body was regenerated.

"Hehehehe."

Kentauros, who had been idly playing with his fingers, let out a sinister laugh.

It felt as if the temperature of the area had dropped just from his laughter.

"Saintess. You have an interesting power. I'll eat it."

Ominous.

For the first time, her body stopped.

Not because she was attacked, but because of instinctive fear.

A huge attack that even 'Ultra-Fast Regeneration' could not stop.

The attack that had brutally killed Sword Demon a moment ago was now heading for her.

The Saintess pulled up all the remaining mana.

Ting.

[Skill Holy Revelation (S) has been activated. Targeting the subject. Mana consumption is accelerated.]

"Die!! You monster!!!"

She shouted.

Abruptly.

Kentauros' movement, who was about to swing his fist, stopped.

"......"

That was all.

Smirk.

"Saintess. You have two interesting powers."

Kentauros, with a corner of his mouth raised, finally spoke perfect Japanese.

"......!!"

Before she could even react.

Kentauros' huge fist was lightly swung.

If that fist touched her, her head would be smashed.

Just like Sword Demon, she would face death in a state where recovery was no longer possible.

'Shinji....'

The Saintess closed her eyes in resignation.

She had done everything she could.

This war had been lost from the moment Sword Demon died.

No, it was practically lost from the moment the ridiculous monster called 'Kentauros' appeared.

Perhaps the result would have been the same even if it was China, not Japan.

That thought came to her belatedly.

'I'll follow you.'

The Saintess waited for the approaching pain.

But.

Boom.

Creak, creak.

The wind that rose with the sound of something colliding swept across her face.

"You give up too easily. Psycho-ssi."

At the familiar voice and mockery, she opened her eyes.

There was a man in front of her.

"You, you're...."

The Saintess's expression was dyed with astonishment.

It was a man who shouldn't be here.

No, more than anything.

He was 'blocking' Kentauros' fist with a single dagger.

"Ah...."

Tears welled up in her eyes without her even realizing it.

Tae-hyun opened his mouth as he looked at her.

"Say it."

His hands were still blocking Kentauros' fist.

"I want to live."

How many people could say that to a national-level player?

But if it was the man in front of her.

She thought he would be more than capable of doing so.

The tears that had welled up in her eyes flowed down her cheeks.

"Save me... Kim Tae-hyun...."

For the first time in her life, she begged for her life.

For the first time in her life, she became an ordinary woman.

"I was going to anyway."

Creak, creak, creak.

Tae-hyun swung Ledeck, which had been blocking Kentauros' fist, greatly.

Clang!!

With a roar, Kentauros' hand bounced back.

"I was thinking of doing that."

Ting.

[Lord's Presence (AA) has been activated. Targeting the opponent. Mana consumption is accelerated.]

Rumble rumble rumble.

[......!!]

"Kneel. Monster."

Unprecedentedly massive mana.

It began to crush Kentauros' huge body.

Jake Maximum was standing at the crossroads of his life.

The surroundings were a scene of chaos.

It was like looking at a half-destroyed tank.

Was that all?

All the equipment that Yuki Broadcasting had prepared was trampled or broken.

The employees of Yuki Broadcasting, who were the owners of the equipment, had either died or fled long ago.

He saw the body of Director Okudera, who had become a corpse.

A few low-level monsters were clinging to it and devouring the corpse.

"Crazy bastards."

It was a crazy plan from the beginning.

Broadcasting a war where blood and death ran rampant.

No matter how much a deal they had with the government, it was something they shouldn't have done.

Perhaps the current situation was the punishment for it.

If just one more minute had passed, he would have been trampled by the monsters pouring in and become a corpse, and even that corpse would have been devoured.

"Did I... survive...?"

Jake Maximum muttered without realizing it.

Suddenly, a man and a woman appeared as a warp gate opened.

They were rapidly eliminating monsters.

Jake Maximum knew that the man's name was Kim Tae-hyun.

The first national-level player in New Korea and the player considered the strongest in Asia.

The battle situation changed drastically at the same time as he appeared.

He was massacring a large number of monsters.

Not only had he saved the Saintess from that monstrous monster.

He was making the monster stagger.

Even at this moment, his sword was cutting through the monster's body.

At that moment, the words Director Okudera had said came to mind.

The absurd claim that he would capture the historical moment on camera.

Gulp.

Jake Maximum looked at his hand.

In his hand was a portable camera that he had instinctively picked up.

It was a camera worth hundreds of millions that could immediately transmit video if the channel was adjusted.

He didn't think long.

His body, holding the camera, headed towards the battlefield.

"Is this how it ends...."

Ji Jin-hee sighed as he looked at the blackened screen.

The last video was of Japan's elite forces collapsing like a disorganized mob, starting with the death of Sword Demon.

The panic was conveyed to Ji Jin-hee and Go Tae-wook, who were directly watching it.

A monster that could harm a national-level player like a child.

The monster who identified himself as Kentauros.

At this rate, it was only a matter of time before Japan was destroyed under his hooves.

Now, New Korea also had to choose.

Whether to dispatch players like Russia to stop him.

Or to strengthen defenses while Japan holds out for a little while.

Whichever option they chose, it would eventually come with a considerable sacrifice.

Go Tae-wook, who knew Ji Jin-hee's thoughts, opened his mouth.

"First of all, Japan has officially rejected our support. The priority now is to issue a alert order to the players...."

At that time.

Static. Static.

An unstable sound rang out from the screen.

A new video appeared on the screen, which had turned black.

The image quality was not good, probably because they used a sub camera.

But he could tell that a man and a monster were fighting in the place the camera was pointing.

Clang. Clang. Clang.

A sharp sound rang out as the monster's fist and the man's sword collided.

"Who on earth is fighting that monster...."

A man who showed unbelievable divine power.

Just as Ji Jin-hee was about to express his respect for him.

The man's face was revealed as the video gradually got closer.

Go Tae-wook and Ji Jin-hee opened their mouths at the same time.

"Tae-hyun!"

Ji Jin-hee jumped up and shouted.

"Go, Deputy Go!! Why is Tae-hyun... why is he coming out from there!!"

Thud.

In the blurry video.

Tae-hyun, who had guarded the monster's fist, was flying far away.

That was just the beginning.

Bang. Bang. Bang. Boom.

Kentauros roared and threw his fist.

Pupu pupupuk.

Tae-hyun, who had hidden his form, left wounds on Kentauros.

"Go, Deputy Go... didn't you say you had people assigned to Tae-hyun...?"

Ji Jin-hee asked with a dumbfounded expression.

At that time, another person caught his eye in the screen.

A woman who relentlessly froze approaching monsters and held the Saintess in her arms was running vigorously.

"Ah... there she is."

Go Tae-wook replied in a dazed voice.

"Hmm...."

Ji Jin-hee groaned.

Okay, here is the translation:

Episode 128

Kugugugung.

As the skill 'Lord's Majesty' activated, a massive force pressed down on Kentamion.

It didn't seem to have much of an effect.

Taehyun, no longer holding back, focused his mana.

[Skill Lord's Majesty (AA) is enhanced. Target specified. Mana consumption is accelerated. Output: 80%]

Crack. Cracking.

Kentamion's feet began to sink into the ground.

It was the first gravity he had felt since the dungeon break.

"Kim Taehyun. Player of Shinhan Korea."

Kentamion opened his mouth, enduring the crushing mana.

It was definitely Shinhan Korean.

'This guy. He's learning after all.'

Kentamion was no ordinary monster.

In his past life, he was known as a considerable SS-rank monster.

They all possessed powers that defied common sense.

Kentazenas was the same.

Strategies that were hard to believe came from a monster's mind.

By eating people, he understood the human race.

Unlike the abyss, a world of survival of the fittest.

Society. Law. Order. Culture.

He understood that humans were formed by a combination of various things.

That was why he used hostages, unlike a typical monster.

The method worked perfectly and succeeded in weakening Japan's power.

And Kentamion.

Another monster Kentazenas created through some method.

He ate Kentazenas, ate the monsters, and devoured even more humans.

An SS+ rank monster with human intelligence.

From a player's perspective, he was a growth-type Awakener.

And Taehyun was facing a growth-type monster for the first time.

'It's dangerous to let him grow any further here.'

Taehyun increased the mana injected into the skill.

[Skill Lord's Majesty (AA) is enhanced. Target specified. Mana consumption is accelerated. Output: 90%]

Kugugugugu.

Even though the range was adjusted, the surrounding atmosphere trembled.

Soon.

[Skill Lord's Majesty (AA) is enhanced. Target specified. Mana consumption is accelerated. Skill enhancement has reached its limit.]

Crack. Crackle.

A crater formed around where Taehyun and Kentamion were standing.

The ground sank under the immense force.

'I guess this isn't enough either.'

It's best not to use the power of Devour until the very end.

Especially not in a place where people's eyes are focused, like now.

Just as Taehyun was about to use his next skill.

Kentamion's body moved first.

His massive four legs.

Two of his front paws kicked Taehyun away.

Kwaang.

"......!!"

It was a different kind of power than the punches he had easily blocked.

Taehyun was sent flying far away by the tremendous force.

He used 'Shadow Skin' and guarded with Reddick.

Even so, he felt a considerable impact.

Kwaaang.

Taehyun, who had crashed at the end of the crater, quickly pulled himself out.

Kentamion's two legs slammed down in that spot.

Kwaang. Kwaang. Kwaaang.

He relentlessly pressed his attack.

Taehyun, who covered his entire body with mana, was busy backpedaling and dodging.

'Fast... and strong.'

The overall stat difference seems to be at least 70. No, it must be 100.

Strength, stamina, and mana.

He was overwhelming Taehyun's physical abilities, which had reached national power levels in three areas.

Even so.

'I can keep up with my eyes?'

Before he could sort out his thoughts, Kentamion approached.

Thanks to the effect of 'Shadow Skin,' Taehyun disappeared once again.

But Kentamion was easily keeping up with Taehyun's movements.

His red eyes were perfectly piercing through the stealth effect.

"A cheap trick."

It was perfect human language.

He stomped his foot as if he was annoyed.

Kwaang.

Taehyun narrowly avoided the kick.

'I can see it.'

It felt like he was predicting the future 0.5 seconds ahead.

Taehyun narrowly avoided his hooves.

Kwaang.

Kentamion's foot slammed down where Taehyun had been just a moment ago.

A roar like an explosion echoed.

Taehyun wasn't about to miss that opportunity.

He swung Reddick, dodging the stones scattering from the aftermath of the explosion.

Clang. Clang Clang. Clang Clang Clang Clang.

It wasn't the sound he had expected.

'It's tough.'

Despite being a unique item, there was nothing that could be called a fatal wound on Kentamion's body.

Only a few scratches had appeared.

'It's impossible in my current state.'

From the beginning, he had surrounded his entire body with the mana of Devour to compensate for his lacking physical stats.

That's why Reddick was still holding up, unlike Bai Ye.

But that was the limit.

Like Gui Jian and the Saintess, Taehyun's attacks weren't making any significant injuries.

'The difference in physical stats is too big.'

The stats of monsters aren't much different from players.

In that respect.

Strength. Stamina. Speed.

None of them could reach him.

If it weren't for his mana that transcended common sense and the fact that he could see his movements, this fight wouldn't have even been possible.

'This is just like... except there's no Dragon Fear…'

It felt like he was fighting Kaiselin.

'He's capable of driving Japan to the brink of destruction. The stealth effect is meaningless now...'

Taehyun deactivated his stealth.

Once activated, the Fusion Skill could be turned ON and OFF according to Taehyun's will.

This was also a technique he had acquired as his skill proficiency increased.

"Hic. Hic."

Kentamion imitated human laughter.

When he looked at the information asleep in the brains of the humans he had devoured.

The human named Kim Taehyun in front of him was by no means a weak opponent.

Even so.

"It's such a delicious aura."

In front of the new king of the Kentas, he was just a nutritious prey.

Kentamion reached out his hand.

As if gravity was acting on it.

Thud.

The halberd Kentazenas used was sucked into his hand.

Kugugugugung.

Mana that seemed to burst was flowing along the halberd.

Similarly, Taehyun focused crimson mana on Reddick.

He even turned the power of Devour surrounding his body into Reddick.

Ting.

[The form of Unique Skill Devour (AA) is being transformed. Mana consumption is accelerated.]

Kentamion's red eyes trembled slightly.

He opened his mouth, looking at Taehyun's activated red eyes.

"Kim Taehyun. What are those eyes?"

Human language.

[Why are you using the power of a 'Higher Being'?]

Monster language.

Two languages were mixed.

Heh heh.

Kentamion raised the corners of his lips.

He was imitating the expression humans made when provoking.

"Interesting."

"I'm not amused."

His activated sixth sense made his whole body tingle.

He felt an even greater sense of pressure from the guy who picked up the halberd.

Kentamion, who quickly closed the distance, swung the halberd.

It was different from fists or feet.

The movement was visible, and it was just an extremely clean and simple action.

Even so, the reach of the halberd created a considerable difference from before, and Taehyun, who couldn't dodge it in time, had no choice but to counter with Reddick.

Clang!!!

With a deafening roar, Taehyun's body was sent flying backward.

Kwaaang.

'I'm crashing a lot today.'

He could tell without looking that Reddick in his hand was broken.

He immediately got up and threw away the handle of Reddick, which was flowing with mana.

Clang.

Kentamion lightly deflected it as if it were nothing.

Taehyun used 'Lord's Majesty' once again.

Kugugugung.

Kentamion stopped abruptly in front of Taehyun.

He had an expression as if he had gained a new realization.

"Kneeling in the world of humans has the meaning of submission."

"......?"

Taehyun looked at him as if he was talking nonsense.

Kentamion was preoccupied with showing off his newly understood knowledge.

"Yes. That's what it meant. So that's why you were trying to make me kneel."

Kentamion took a step toward Taehyun.

"You dare try to make me submit. Kim Taehyun?"

"......"

"Kneel. Insect with the name of human."

Kugugugung.

"......!!"

An oppressive force similar to 'Lord's Majesty' exploded.

A sensation as if his whole body was being crushed.

Kentamion looked down at Taehyun with an arrogant expression.

It was a familiar sight.

The attitude of the strong in front of the weak.

A monster imitating humans.

It was absurd.

'Not yet.'

He couldn't feel the presence of Ah Young, who had taken the Saintess away.

He needed to buy a little more time.

Taehyun strengthened 'Shadow Skin' and took a stance for his next attack.

Now he was somewhat familiar with ancient Chinese martial arts.

Form 3: Cheokgyeong.

Kwaang.

Form 4: Seonhgyeong.

Kwaaang.

Trickle.

Blood flowed from the fist he was attacking with.

Even so, he didn't stop.

Form 5: Chimtugyeong.

Kkwaang.

Form 6: Sinhwagyeong.

Kkwaaang.

Not a single movement.

Taehyun created distance again.

Kentamion tilted his head.

"Is that martial arts? What's the next attack?"

"......"

"If there isn't one."

Thud. Thud. Thud. Thud.

As his four legs approached, Taehyun slowly backed away.

"I'll stop eating you now."

With the eyes of a predator, Kentamion opened his maw.

He could see the teeth that sprouted like blades.

Teeth that had even bitten the body of the SS-rank monster Kentazenas.

He could easily tell that he wouldn't be able to defend against it with 'Shadow Skin'.

At that time.

"Kim Taehyun!!!"

He heard a voice from above the crater where they were waiting.

"I'm ready!!!"

At the same time.

Crack crack crack crack crack.

Huge ice barriers were created around the crater.

It was 'Ice Age' that Ah Young used with all her power.

The temperature in the area dropped rapidly.

Only then did Taehyun's steps, which had been backing away, stop.

"You're going to eat me?"

Taehyun shook his head with a bitter smile.

It was a different atmosphere than before.

"What is it? Those eyes."

Kentamion's red eyes stared at Taehyun's eyes, which had turned as red as his own.

What he was paying attention to wasn't the color of his eyes.

Something had changed.

The arrogance contained in his red eyes.

It was an eye that only a predator, like himself, could have, not a victim.

Crimson mana rose from Taehyun's body.

"You're wrong, Kentamion."

Unlike before, Taehyun's steps were forward.

Kentamion wasn't someone he could deal with by using his power moderately like before.

In order to deal with him, he had to use all his power.

Even so, the reason he didn't go all out from the beginning was because of the eyes that were watching.

He stuck to close combat to hold Kentamion in that gaze and lost the unique item, Reddick.

It was a considerable loss.

Conversely, he managed to buy time to create this kind of stage with just one unique item.

It was a loss that had more gains than losses.

Taehyun chuckled.

"......?"

Kentamion looked down at Taehyun as if he couldn't understand him.

He could be sure from the fight just now.

The human named Kim Taehyun is strong.

Not just in the human category.

Even if he included all the monsters he knew, there weren't many who could face Kim Taehyun.

But that was it.

Kentazenas, the king of the centaurs.

Kentamion, whom he strengthened with the help of the Beast King Orgal.

Although it was only a part, the power of an Archduke was mixed in.

A human was laughing in front of such an existence.

With an expression as if he had prey in front of him.

The word unpleasantness came to mind.

That unpleasantness reached its peak due to Taehyun's provocation.

"You're the one who's getting eaten."

Ting.

[Skill Lord's World (AA) has been activated. Target specified. Mana consumption is accelerated.]

Within the ice barrier.

A quiet darkness descended.

129

Whir.

[The Skill Monarch's World (AA) has been activated. Identifying the target. Mana consumption is accelerating.]

Whoosh.

In an instant, the surroundings fell silent.

In that place of silence,

Kentamion and Taehyun faced each other.

Taehyun enhanced his body once more.

[The Skill Shadow Skin (AA) is being enhanced. Mana consumption is accelerating.]

He downed a mana potion hanging from his belt.

Even during this, Kentamion did not stop Taehyun's actions.

Like humans encountering a new phenomenon.

Kentamion, too, was 'trying' to understand the current situation.

The word humans use to refer to beings like him is monster.

Those who use skills to fight monsters are called players.

So, this dark field was clearly due to Taehyun's skill.

"Not running away and imprisoning yourself, how interesting."

Speaking in perfect New Korean, Kentamion stroked his chin with his massive hand.

He pondered.

The human before him.

Possessing crimson eyes, which only the chosen superior species could have, this peculiar human revealed his intentions.

It didn't take long to finish thinking.

"Could it be."

Kentamion shook his head slightly.

He wore an expression of disbelief.

"Were you limiting your power against me?"

Kentamion asked in a sinister voice.

"Yes."

"...I see."

That was the end.

Kentamion didn't bother asking the reason why.

He had already figured out what type of human Taehyun was from that answer.

Humanity (人類愛) towards one's own kind.

A trite sense of duty, values, and emotions that humans commonly called heroes (英雄) possessed.

According to Kentamion's knowledge, Taehyun could be described as such a being.

Soon after, Kentamion's massive frame began to tremble.

Despite having the power to oppose him, he hadn't used his full strength?

A human who would even endure his own harm for the sake of the weak?

Yet, despite all that.

"You're going to eat me?"

Hic. Hic. Hic.

A grotesque laughter leaked from Kentamion's mouth.

His crimson eyes flashed once more.

Thump thump thump.

Mana surged from his body.

A massive amount of mana pushed back the 'Monarch's Aura.'

Not only that.

If he so desired.

He was confident he could tear this dark space apart in an instant.

Yet, he didn't, due to an emotion called 'consideration.'

A largesse bestowed upon the weak. A hypocritical culture of humans.

"What an arrogant race."

Kentamion covered his mouth with his massive hand and sneered.

Humans have neither sharp teeth, nor claws, nor talons.

They merely entrust their lives to sharpened blades.

But what about him?

He was born with the destiny to become the king of the centaurs.

Not just centaurs.

He received the power of the Beast King Orgal to reign over other races.

Stomping his feet shakes the ground, roaring shakes the space.

His solid body is the strongest armor in itself.

Furthermore, this blade, forged with the blood of countless beings by his father and predecessor, the Centaur King Kentagenas.

It was on a different level from the petty toys of humans.

Yet, the human before him.

With what confidence was Kim Taehyun challenging him?

He had even lost his only weapon and was now in a position to swing his small fists.

Throwing an egg against a rock.

David and Goliath.

Could there be a more fitting expression?

That was why Kentamion wasn't tearing this dark space apart immediately.

Humans feel the greatest despair when their hope is crushed.

If so.

Slurp.

'I'll eat you when you're most desperate.'

Kentamion stopped in place and spread his arms wide.

"Kim Taehyun of New Korea. Surely this isn't all you have? If you have anything left, bring it all out."

It was as if a king was bestowing benevolence upon his subjects.

Taehyun chuckled at the sight.

His actions were already no different from a human's.

"A monster with too much humanity. How grateful I am."

Skill 'Monarch's World.'

Taehyun's unique skill, created by fusing Lee Jungjae's skill 'Monarch's Heart' and Cha Mingmin's skill 'World of Silence.'

In this domain, Taehyun's physical stats skyrocketed, and his opponent's stats plummeted.

Unlike 'Monarch's Heart,' which only applied to party members.

It was the perfect skill for Taehyun, who aimed for one-on-one battles.

'This won't be enough, though.'

It would have been enough if his opponent was an ordinary SS-rank monster.

But Kentamion was a being comparable to the Worm-class dragon Kaiselin.

He never thought he could restrain him with just this from the start.

Taehyun unleashed his entire body's mana.

Crimson mana exploded, flowing into the darkness everywhere.

"The real deal starts now."

Whir.

[Unique Skill Devour (AA) has been activated. Identifying the target.]

The mana of Devour revealed its sharp teeth.

"……!!"

Kentamion's expression, which had been full of composure, changed.

He felt an ominous energy from the crimson mana flying towards him.

Kentamion swung his halberd forward.

It was an instinctive action.

Crack!!!

The red mana wrapped around the halberd collided with the crimson mana.

Kentamion put strength into the hand holding the halberd.

He intended to repel the blocking mana and cut down Taehyun.

However.

Creek creek creek.

"……?!"

The mana of Devour, facing the halberd, was in a tense confrontation.

Grip.

Taehyun clenched his fists, controlling his mana.

Kentamion.

He should have abandoned the 'arrogance' he had gained from humans.

He should have driven Taehyun into a corner, pushed him further, and crushed him with all his might.

He shouldn't have waited for him to reach his full potential like now.

Kentamion's failure lay in that point.

"Devour it. Devour."

Taehyun smiled bitterly and reached out his hand.

The crimson mana transformed into the shape of a large maw.

And.

Crunch.

The widely opened maw closed, swallowing Kentamion's massive frame.

Crunch. Crunch crunch. Crunch crunch crunch.

[What…!!]

Kentamion was horrified by 'Devour,' which was greedily eating away at his mana.

Conversely, Taehyun wore a satisfied expression.

'It's definitely gotten stronger as the rank increased.'

The only stat Taehyun was ahead in.

Thanks to the effect of 'Monarch's World,' his mana stat currently reached 300.

It was the full power (全力) that Taehyun could exert.

Kentamion desperately emitted mana to resist.

Taehyun wouldn't just stand by and watch.

'End it in one go.'

While controlling his mana, he reached for the potion at his waist.

As the target's resistance was formidable, mana was being depleted quickly.

He didn't know what other variables might occur if it turned into a prolonged battle.

Taehyun diverted all the mana that had been maintaining 'Shadow Skin' to 'Devour.'

And.

Thump thump thump thump.

He focused the 'Monarch's Aura' on the creature's legs.

Crack.

The balance that had been firmly supported by the four legs faltered.

The fleeting gap decided the battle.

Crunch crunch crunch!!

The mana of Devour succeeded in biting off one of the creature's arms.

[Kreaak!!!]

Kentamion screamed, flailing the torn-off arm.

It was a body reinforced with the mana of the Beast King.

Yet, one of his arms had been torn off so easily.

He was momentarily taken aback by the pain he was experiencing for the first time in his life.

"Not yet."

The mana of Devour, not satisfied with one arm, stubbornly clung on.

And.

Crunch!!!

It finally succeeded in tearing off one of Kentamion's legs.

[Kreaaaaa!!!]

Kentamion screamed more than ever, thrashing about.

It was to escape the range of Devour.

A message window appeared before Taehyun's eyes.

Whir.

[You have devoured a massive amount of mana. Mana has increased by 1.]

[You have devoured a massive amount of mana. Mana has increased by 1.]

[You have devoured a massive amount of mana. Mana has increased by 1.]

Ignoring it, he refocused on controlling his mana.

The one-armed Kentamion poured a considerable amount of mana into the halberd.

It was to tear apart 'Monarch's World' and escape from this place.

Taehyun wasn't foolish enough to let go of the prey he had already caught.

'Not a chance. I'll tear off the other arm too.'

Crunch. Crunch crunch crunch.

Messages were constantly popping up before his eyes.

Along with gruesome sounds, Kentamion's roar vibrated the air.

Drip.

Blood flowed from Taehyun's crimson eyes as he devoured the creature.

It was a side effect of shoving massive amounts of mana into his body.

He gritted his teeth and endured.

If he could devour Kentamion with this much risk, it was an unparalleled gain.

'Swallow him whole like this….'

That was the moment Taehyun was about to squeeze out his remaining mana.

'……?!!'

Swish swish swish.

One of the eyes that had turned crimson returned to normal.

The power of 'Devour' was rapidly decreasing as a bonus.

'What….'

[Impressive, aren't you? Drawing out this much power on your own.]

A familiar voice echoed in his head.

The doppelganger he had heard endlessly in his dreams.

The voice of another self.

'Why is this bastard here now….'

Until now, the guy had only appeared in dreams.

This had never happened in reality.

Taehyun bit his teeth and tried to control his mana again.

Contrary to his efforts, the power of Devour was disappearing even faster.

Disaster.

Such a word flashed through his mind.

[Hey. Overeating is not good.]

Another Taehyun said in a sly voice.

'Don't talk nonsense and get out of here.'

Kentamion's screams gradually subsided, and he could see mana gathering on the creature's halberd.

If he were to receive that attack with his bare body, he would surely face death.

'If you don't want to die together. Don't interfere and get out of here.'

[Are you trying to take credit with 'my power'?]

'Nonsense….'

Without realizing it.

Thud.

Taehyun knelt on one knee.

A new message window appeared before his eyes.

[Fatigue has exceeded 80%. Exhaustion is progressing.]

The guy's laughter echoed like a melody in his head.

[Hahaha. Try to beat that guy with your own power. But just in case. I'll seal this power for sure.]

[Unique Skill Devour (AA) has been canceled. It is no longer usable.]

[Skill Monarch's Aura (AA) has been canceled. It is no longer usable.]

[Skill Monarch's World (AA) has been canceled. It is no longer usable.]

[A mysterious force has been activated. Skill Shadow Skin (AA) cannot be used.]

[A mysterious force has been activated. Skill Chains of Restraint (AA) cannot be used.]

[A mysterious force has been activated. Skill Queen's Man (AA) cannot be used.]

[A mysterious force has been activated. Skill Complete Hypnosis (AA) cannot be used.]

"Kugh…!!"

As the skills were released, a sense of powerlessness washed over him.

Taehyun propped himself up on the ground with both hands, panting.

He couldn't feel any mana in his body.

It was difficult to open his eyes in the light that permeated as 'Monarch's World' shattered.

And.

[Kreaaaaa!!!]

Kentamion, who had approached unnoticed, was swinging his halberd.

'Crazy….'

Even though the halberd was approaching moment by moment.

Taehyun could only watch the sight.

130

"Haa... Haa..."

Sweat streamed down Ah-young's forehead.

It was because she was maintaining a huge 'Ice Age.'

Although she was drinking mana potions and fatigue potions from time to time, her mental fatigue was steadily accumulating.

Behind her, screams and shouts rang out.

They were from the monsters and Japanese players who had clashed again.

She knew that if she, who had reached the level of an S-class player, helped, she would be a great force.

Even so.

'I need to focus here.'

The only thing Tae-hyun asked her as his partner.

It was to trap him and the monster at the right timing.

The reason was that he wanted to use his full power in a place where others wouldn't get caught up.

She was doing her best to fulfill that request.

And now.

Although she couldn't see it directly, a huge collision of mana shook the earth.

Ah-young bit her lip without realizing it.

'Kim Tae-hyun... just when did you become this strong?'

No matter how hard she tried to catch up, she couldn't.

Before she knew it, he had surpassed the national power level and even grabbed the title of Asia's strongest.

Even though she, who was called a genius, was working hard, the gap was widening.

As a rival, she felt jealous, but as a colleague, he was more reliable than anyone else.

So now was the time to support Tae-hyun with all her heart.

'Kim Tae-hyun. If even you fall, it's all over.'

Thinking so, she emptied another potion bottle.

It was because it was becoming difficult to maintain the 'Ice Age' due to the vibrations that had been increasing gradually.

She still had plenty of potions left.

If she could concentrate well, she could last for another 20 minutes.

That's what she was thinking when.

Kwaang!!

"Keuek...."

It was an impact that was on a different level than before.

A groan escaped her without her realizing it.

Kwaang!!!

With an impact that seemed to shake her mind.

Crack. Crack. Crack.

Cracks began to appear in the ice barrier.

Chwaaaaaaaaak.

She quickly concentrated her mana on the cracked areas.

She was going to try to hold on until Tae-hyun dealt with Kentauros.

But.

Kwaaaaang!!!

The ice barrier shattered as if her reinforcement was a joke.

Thud.

She held her throbbing head and looked up.

It was an unbelievable sight.

A bloodied man was being thrown into the sky.

Upon confirming the man's appearance, she shouted without realizing it.

"Kim Tae-hyun!!!"

Tae-hyun dodging the halberd was lucky.

His body moved first in an extreme situation.

The halberd, which he dodged in a split second, pierced the ground as if splitting his head.

[You dare!!!]

Kentauros couldn't hide his excitement and lifted the halberd.

[You were trying to eat me!!!]

Kwaang.

He succeeded in dodging again, but.

Tae-hyun's body was thrown helplessly by the tremendous explosive power.

It was a power that would have instantly killed a player with a stamina stat of 100 or less.

Rumble.

'Lord's World' was broken, and in the space surrounded by the ice barrier.

Tae-hyun's body was rolled around helplessly.

[......]

Kentauros, who was watching the scene, stopped attacking.

Something was wrong.

The guy who had been so aggressive just a moment ago was suddenly in this state.

He already only had three legs left, but it would only take a moment to reach where Tae-hyun was.

Kentauros looked down at Tae-hyun, who couldn't even stand up properly.

"Kim Tae-hyun. Where did your momentum from earlier go?"

"Kulk...."

Blood flowed from Tae-hyun's mouth.

Blood was flowing from his head, probably from being hit by flying rocks.

"......"

The corners of Kentauros's mouth slowly rose as he watched the scene.

That's right.

He understood once again.

That attack that had driven him to the brink of death a moment ago.

"It was your best."

Hic. Hic. Hic.

A grotesque laughter echoed throughout the area.

There was no way a mere human could sustain such power.

There was no way a mere human could stand up to a higher species like himself.

"I can't just kill a guy who imitated a higher species."

Kentauros grabbed Tae-hyun with his only remaining hand.

And.

Boom.

Kwaaaang.

Tae-hyun's body, which was thrown with all his might.

It broke through the ice barrier and flew away.

Although he had lost an arm and a leg.

Kentauros was still worthy of being called an SS-class monster.

On the other hand, Tae-hyun no longer had the strength to continue fighting.

He operated Gluttony with the determination to end everything, and failed.

To make matters worse, a magical backlash was starting due to another prank set by Tae-hyun.

"You will not die comfortably."

Kentauros raised his huge foot.

As if venting the resentment he had suffered from Tae-hyun earlier.

Kwaduk!!

He trampled Tae-hyun just enough not to kill him.

"Kuaaak!!!"

Tae-hyun screamed in terrible pain.

The leg that Kentauros had lightly trampled was crushed.

It wasn't just that the bone was broken.

It was hanging down like a minced meat patty.

It was such a severe wound that even pouring in the highest-grade healing potion wouldn't heal it immediately.

Even that would have been cut off already if Kentauros hadn't deliberately controlled his strength.

Tae-hyun spat out blood and screamed.

"Kulk... Keu... Keuk...."

[You've finally knelt down, bug.]

"Crazy bastard... you crushed my knee completely... and that's what you have to say...."

Death was approaching so closely that there was nothing more he could do.

Perhaps because it was an unexpected situation.

Laughter leaked out through the blood foam.

'Damn... what kind of... ridiculous situation is this....'

In an instant.

Something flashed through Tae-hyun's mind.

That day when he became a Class S player and fought the Bone Dragon.

The forgotten memory of that day faintly came to mind.

'Could it be... Narendrala Neru too... that guy....'

His use of mana and skills was so free that he called it 'his own power.'

No, perhaps because he could freely limit Tae-hyun's power like now.

'Was it really... his power?'

Pshik.

Laughter erupted with the blood.

He lived harder than anyone in his past life.

He thought that all the power he had now was something he had built with his own hands.

But it turned out like this?

'This is a pain in the ass.'

Seogeok.

Kentauros stabbed one of Tae-hyun's arms with his halberd.

Even though Tae-hyun had stats of 200.

Tuk.

The body that was not protected by mana was easily cut off.

Blood flowed from the severed arm.

[Where did your spirit from earlier go?]

Kwajik.

The rest of his legs were destroyed by the monster's hooves.

'King's Power my ass....'

Tae-hyun raised the corners of his mouth in his fading consciousness.

[How boring. But I'll find out if I eat you.]

It was when Kentauros was about to open his mouth to tear off his head and eat it.

Jeojeojeojeojeojeojeong.

A huge glacier was created above their heads.

As if it were a meteorite, a huge glacier fell.

Kentauros swung his halberd as if it were annoying.

With just that, the glacier split in two.

At the same time.

Jeojeojeojeojeok.

Four ice walls surrounded the area.

Kentauros stretched out his only remaining forefoot.

Kwaang.

Kwareureureureu.

The ice wall easily collapsed along the broken spot.

And.

[Heu....]

Kentauros wore an interesting expression at the sight of Tae-hyun, who had disappeared, leaving behind bloodstains.

"Kim Tae-hyun!! Wake up!!!"

He regained consciousness from the shaking feeling.

"Im... Ah-young...?"

"Just hold on!!"

She raised her blue mana.

She was strengthening her legs to increase her speed.

She sprinted, jumping over countless monsters and human corpses.

Uleok.

Tae-hyun spat blood on her back.

It was hard to even speak.

Now, it seemed like not only mana but also blood was flowing backward.

"Hold on!! I'll take you to the Saintess...."

Kwaaaang!!!

With a roar, Tae-hyun's body flew through the air once again.

He opened his eyes as he was thrown away pathetically.

Far away.

He saw Kentauros holding a halberd.

And he also saw Ah-young blocking Kentauros in front of him.

'Get out of the way....'

Although Kentauros was degraded to an SS-class monster.

He was an opponent that even the national-level Sword Demon or Saintess could not handle.

There was nothing she, who had just reached the level of an S-class player, could do against such a monster.

As expected.

Kwaang.

Ah-young's skill was shattered by a single kick.

Her body flew through the air.

It was something that happened in an instant that Tae-hyun, whose physical abilities had deteriorated, could hardly recognize.

Kwaang. Kwaang. Kwajik. Kwadeudeuk.

Strength, stamina, speed, mana, even experience.

Ah-young didn't surpass Kentauros in any of them.

The current her was not the SS-class player in Tae-hyun's previous life.

So.

'She can't die here... she's someone who shouldn't die....'

She was supposed to build up her skills a little more and grow into a player representing the New Korean Empire.

At this rate, she wouldn't last a minute and would die.

'Is this also a changed future because of me?'

Pshik.

He laughed.

He had no sensation in his body.

Even so, he desperately moved his remaining hand that he could still move.

As he groped around his waist, he felt a potion.

Healing, mana, fatigue.

He didn't know which potion it was among them.

Click.

He shoved it into his mouth at random.

'Healing... potion...?'

Seeing that he was starting to feel the pain in his body, it seemed that some of his physical senses had returned.

Jeojeojeojeong.

On the other side, Ah-young, covered in blood, was freezing Kentauros.

Click.

He put another potion in his mouth.

This time, it seemed like it was a fatigue potion, and his body felt a little lighter.

Kwaaaang.

Tuk.

With a roar.

An arm that appeared to be Ah-young's flew to his side and crashed.

It was an arm with the lingering scent of blue mana still remaining.

The mana of an S-class player.

Tae-hyun didn't hesitate.

'If I can't use skills....'

Kwaduk.

Tae-hyun bit into the arm piece.

And.

Eudeuk. Eudeudeuk.

Tae-hyun chewed and ate the piece of flesh he had torn off.

Gulp.

At the same time as he swallowed, a message popped up.

[A great will is reacting. A new skill has been recognized.]

[Skill Blood Rage (AA) is available.]

'......!!'

Skill 'Blood Rage', which had not been recognized after devouring Jang Lin-feng.

Vampire Lord.

It was clearly the skill of Duke Igmun.

At that time.

Kwaang!!!

"Keuheok...!!"

Ah-young, covered in blood, flew to the side and crashed.

Her body, with both arms and legs broken, was trembling severely.

Just like Tae-hyun a moment ago, a reversal had begun.

'At this rate, both of them are destined to die.'

So.

There was no choice.

Tting.

[Skill Blood Rage (AA) has been activated. The body is being activated.]

Once again.

Tae-hyun's eyes turned red.

| Prev | Indx | Next |