RKP 161-170

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Episode 161

American Player Association.

Seven men and women were gathered in the conference room.

Five with SS-rank licenses, along with Michael Gore and Association President Kevin Lee.

"Four people are missing."

Montel Jackson pointed to the empty seats and asked.

Greger Gillespie, Jordan Knight, Jason Rinaldi, and Nick Lentz.

It had been difficult to see their faces lately.

"They've left for the Abyss depths. We can't neglect the exploration there either. It's not intentional, so I hope unnecessary factions don't arise."

"Does the Association President think we're children?"

Ricky Hollis, who had fully recovered, giggled and said.

"Cracks start from trivial things."

Association President Kevin Lee's point of concern was clear.

Only five out of the original ten national-level players had become SS-rank players.

Low-tier S-rank. Lower-mid-tier S-rank. Mid-tier S-rank. Upper-mid-tier S-rank. High-tier S-rank.

And Top-tier S-rank.

Originally, the term "national-level player" was for those who had reached the pinnacle of S-rank.

It was an honorable title to signify the Top-tier S-rank.

But with the creation of SS-rank licenses, the meaning had faded.

'The standards for the best can't always be the same.'

The world is constantly changing, and so is the world of players.

Soon, ranks will naturally emerge even within SS-rank, and those who reach the top of that rank will newly seize the title of national-level player.

The five in front of Kevin Lee were those approaching that new national-level status.

'If our America collapses, the world order will collapse.'

To prevent that, it was necessary to successfully conclude this matter.

"How is the raid team preparation going?"

Association President Kevin Lee asked Dominic Gavrant.

He was the raid leader of this joint team involving Uriah Simon and Montel Jackson.

"We've gathered about 50% so far. Germany's mobilization is slower than expected."

"It's a kind of protest. After all, we made Berlin second priority."

Association President Kevin Lee clicked his tongue and reviewed the documents.

It contained the list of players entering the un-cleared Paris dungeon.

6 SS-rank players.

20 S-rank players.

100 A-rank players.

150 B-rank players.

300 Porters.

It was the most luxurious composition of any raid team in history.

'There shouldn't be any major problems with the raid.'

The situation was different from Irkutsk in Russia.

The un-cleared Paris dungeon had a much lower measured difficulty.

Similarly, Berlin and Milan also had relatively low measured difficulties for un-cleared dungeons.

Barcelona, on the other hand, was similar to Irkutsk.

That's why the alliance placed the Barcelona dungeon last in priority.

'We need to fine-tune our teamwork and reorganize our ranks further.'

Now, the major powers joining hands is an unstoppable trend.

Russia was a good example.

They realized that if they maintained their conservative attitude, they could be overtaken not only by China and Japan but also by New Korea.

That sense of crisis brought the major powers together.

Moreover, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany all possessed un-cleared dungeons.

There couldn't be better conditions for creating a new playing field.

"I'll contact the German Association President separately."

"Understood. Then we will proceed with the schedule as planned."

The United Kingdom had no complaints about being pushed to the back of the line due to the re-measurement showing low mana readings.

However, Germany was strongly dissatisfied with being pushed to the back of the line despite having mana readings not far from France.

They knew that all of this was due to political relations.

"Michael, I want you to help Dominic a little."

"Understood."

"By the way, what are we going to do about New Korea?"

Montel Jackson, who was also reviewing the documents, asked.

The country that declared it would raid an SS-rank dungeon following the United States.

Although it was treated as only the third priority in Asia, despite being an ally.

None of those present underestimated New Korea.

They had directly experienced Taehyun's power at the awarding ceremony.

"According to the information, they seem to be selecting players mainly from their own country."

"……?"

"Their own country?"

"They probably don't have even ten S-rank high-tier players there."

Association President Kevin Lee nodded in agreement.

Dominic Gavrant, Uriah Simon, and Montel Jackson.

The three of them had incredulous expressions.

This was the raid of a dungeon that had received an SS-rank rating.

Although Kim Taehyun, an SS-rank player, was leading, no one knew what the inside of the dungeon was like.

Having a stable force was essential.

'I don't know what he's thinking.'

Although it wasn't expressed, Association President Kevin Lee also couldn't understand.

Kim Taehyun.

He had expected that ambitious young man to challenge the United States.

But no matter how much he possessed the martial power of a hegemon, he was still an individual.

There was a limit to what one could do alone.

'If only he had been born in our United States, he would have become the second Cody Cruise….'

In many ways, he was a person too good to be in a country called New Korea.

Association President Kevin Lee's gaze turned to Cody Cruise.

He had spoken separately with Michael Gore and Ricky Hollis after the awarding ceremony.

Now, he recognized Taehyun as a player on par with Cody Cruise.

'His individual martial power is sufficient, but his strategic aspects are lacking.'

He knew that he had dealt with the SS-rank monsters Kentamion and Venom.

That's why he thought that he would bring in Japan and China for this raid.

There was enough justification.

If S-rank players from Japan and China joined, it would be a tremendous force.

In that case, it might have been quite an interesting situation with a confrontation between the West and Asia.

But now, New Korea's actions were far beyond his expectations.

"Hmm… to put players from his own country, who are less skilled, at the forefront…"

"I don't know what he's thinking at all."

Uriah Simon and Dominic Gavrant shook their heads.

"Cody, what do you think?"

Kevin Lee asked Cody Cruise, who had been silent.

Everyone's attention was focused on him.

"If it's Kim Taehyun, he must have something in mind."

"Hmm…."

"He certainly has great power, but he overestimates everything else too much."

Dominic Gavrant refuted Cody Cruise's opinion.

"You don't think so?"

"If he did, he wouldn't have thought of forming a raid team only with players from his own country. Even if he had another purpose."

"Maybe so."

Cody Cruise easily backed down.

It was always like this.

He didn't strongly reveal his thoughts to others.

He only acted with the interests of his country as the top priority.

"Anyway, let's wrap up the meeting. Cody and Ricky, please stay behind for a moment."

A little while later.

The two who had received individual missions came out of the Association President's office side by side.

"Cody, you must be very disappointed that you couldn't participate in this raid?"

"I don't act for fun like you."

Ricky Hollis chuckled at the unique gruff reply.

"You're such a boring man."

As she was about to pass, sneering, Cody Cruise spoke again.

"Ricky, let me ask you something."

"Hmm?"

"That day. What happened in Jeju Island?"

"Ah… that?"

Ricky Hollis recalled the memory of that day.

Overwhelming power and overwhelming defeat.

She unknowingly trembled at the mouth.

"Well… I'd like you to protect a woman's privacy."

"……."

She said it playfully, but it was a refusal.

Cody Cruise quickly accepted it without any haggling.

"Alright. I won't ask any more. But keep one thing in mind."

"Hmm?"

"Nothing can be prioritized over the nation. Even we are no exception."

She laughed at Cody Cruise's warning.

"To hear those words from you. It doesn't resonate, does it?"

"What do you mean?"

The two locked eyes.

Ricky Hollis calmly accepted the beast-like gaze.

"You're hiding it too, aren't you? That you made a contract with a Great Duke of the Abyss."

"...I don't know what you're talking about."

"Your lies are clumsier than you look. I'm Ricky Hollis."

As she said that, mana bloomed on her fingers.

Pazzzzz.

The green mana swirling around Cody Cruise's body quickly turned gray.

Cody Cruise's face, which had been maintaining a poker face, twitched slightly.

Ricky Hollis laughed at the sight.

"You're definitely the strongest in the world, but it's still too early to deceive me with mana, isn't it?"

"...How long have you known?"

"Maybe about a year ago?"

Cody Cruise shook his head as if he had been hit hard.

Certainly, about a year ago.

He had made a contract with a being he met in the deepest part of the Abyss.

Great Duke Lucifer.

He had never revealed the power he gained from the contract, so even Kevin Lee didn't know about it.

"So, he's a contractor too? No, that's the wrong question. Which Great Duke did he contract with?"

"You're asking for too much for free."

"What do you want?"

"Hmm. It would be quite a sight to see the strongest man in the world begging?"

"If you're joking, I refuse."

"Well, wait a little longer. I'm still in the process of learning."

With a strange answer, she moved away.

"……."

Cody Cruise, left alone, watched her receding figure.

The events in the Colosseum came to mind.

The mana that pressed down on his entire body, a mana that made the name SS-rank not awkward.

But he also knew that his true strength wasn't at that level.

'Kim Taehyun. What kind of monster did you join hands with?'

Leaving aside the unresolved questions.

Cody Cruise moved on.

A few days later.

A raid team uniting four countries entered the un-cleared Paris dungeon.

Instead of anxiously waiting for a break, a human preemptive attack had begun.

As it was a difficulty level that had never been cleared before, a huge number of people entered the dungeon.

The SS-rank players who would face the dungeon boss.

Dominic Gavrant, Uriah Simon, Montel Jackson, Alex Watson, Daniel Green, and Thomas Neuer, who were the mainstays of the raid team, became daily issues.

And a few days later again.

A raid team consisting only of players from New Korea arrived in Milan.

"There are more reporters than I expected."

Taehyun said, looking at the crowd of reporters from various countries.

They would have followed them to the dungeon if it weren't for the control of the Italian police and players.

"There's still no contact from the joint raid team, so the attention is inevitably focused on us. By the way, are you sure this number of people is okay?"

Kwak Siyang said, looking back.

There were 100 players and 100 porters.

"There's no problem."

"Hmm…."

"Oh, stop dawdling and let's go in quickly."

At Kwon Kanghyuk's urging, the other four headed to the dungeon entrance.

There was a player guarding the entrance gate.

"Raid team leader. Kim Taehyun from New Korea. Is that correct?"

"That's correct."

The man reconfirmed the document Taehyun handed over with a formal procedure.

It was an entry authorization certified by the World Player Association.

"1 SS-rank, 4 S-rank, 50 A-rank, 50 B-rank, 100 porters. Is that correct?"

"That's correct."

"Confirmation complete. I will open the gate."

Creak. Creak. Creak.

With an ominous sound, the man released the device.

Simultaneously.

Kwaaaaaaa.

Evil energy leaked from the dungeon.

"Alright, let's go."

Taehyun casually took a step.

Click. Click. Click.

The reporters didn't miss that sight, as if he were going for a walk.

Okay, here is the translation of the text:

Episode 162

Italy.

Milan Unconquered Dungeon.

"Maintain formation!!"

A guild member from Onsaemiro, in charge of the first party, shouted.

"Saint Guard!!"

"Hollow Position!!"

"Iron Shield!!"

"Blade Blake!!"

29 tanks blocked the monsters.

Thud. Thud. Thud. Bang.

Five S-rank monster Hydras pounded on the 29 shield-bearing tanks.

"Now!!"

At the command of the woman in charge of the second party, 29 members of the Magicians Guild used their skills.

Bzzzzzzz.

Whoooosh.

Crack crack crack.

Lightning. Fire. Wind, and so on.

Skills imbued with various attributes struck the Hydras.

In addition, the third party, consisting of association-affiliated players, continued the attack.

Slash. Slash slash.

Crack. Crunch.

Clang. Clatter.

The Hydras screamed at the continuous attacks.

But being S-rank monsters, they weren't going to die from the combined attacks of A-rank and B-rank players.

Swoosh. Swoosh.

If one head is cut off, two heads regenerate.

One Hydra already had ten heads.

'Is it still too much to handle even one S-rank monster?'

That was Taehyun's judgment, watching the battle from the rear.

He had brought the elites of the association, Onsaemiro, and the Magicians.

Yet, they couldn't gain the upper hand against five S-rank monsters.

If this continued, it was obvious that the players would eventually collapse.

'Even considering the Hydras' special characteristics... this is about it.'

The Hydras cannot die unless the magic stone is destroyed directly.

The problem is that the magic stone is inside the Hydra's tough scales.

It would be different if three parties focused on one monster.

If skills are scattered like this, the firepower is absolutely insufficient.

'Still, if I push them a little more, I'll get at least five S-ranks.'

Taehyun consoled himself by watching the talents who were shining even in the midst of the struggle.

One thing he realized through countless battles.

Repeatedly overcoming extreme situations eventually leads to an increase in skill and magic proficiency.

Although not as fast as growth types, it alone can make a difference of about one rank.

"It seems we should step in soon."

Gwak Siyang, who was watching with him, said.

Taehyun nodded as a signal.

"You bastards!! Time's up!!"

Kwon Kanghyuk shouted and jumped forward.

S-rank skill 'Beast's Blessing'.

Transformed into a 2-meter water buffalo, he rammed into the Hydra's massive body.

Bang!!

The Hydra was knocked away at tremendous speed by Kwon Kanghyuk's body slam.

Bang!!

The rammed Hydra collided with another Hydra and crashed into the dungeon wall side by side.

The moment the two Hydras tried to get up.

Gwak Siyang used the skill he had been casting.

S-rank skill 'Magic Condensation'.

Like Ricky Hollis's 'Energy Compose', it was a skill that could be transformed into various forms depending on control.

Stab. Stab. Stab. Stab.

Magic transformed into dozens of spikes pierced all over the Hydra's body.

The two Hydras screamed and struggled.

But that was their last struggle.

Kwon Kanghyuk, transformed into a bear, punched the Hydra in

Episode 163

Medusa.

An SS-ranked monster that led countless players to their deaths in a past life.

Although humanoid, it was still a monster.

Swish. Swish.

The being with the head of snakes approached them.

Around Medusa were numerous statues, each resembling a human.

"That thing, could it be..."

"Yes. They all seem to be players."

Kwak Si-yang said definitively, having carefully examined their equipment.

They were, in fact, high-level players who had been sacrificed during the formation of early dungeons.

Even in death, they were eternally suffering within the dungeon.

"True to its appearance, it has a nasty hobby."

Kwon Kang-hyuk frowned, infusing his axe with mana.

And then.

"Hoo-eup!!"

He threw the axe with all his might.

It was powerful enough to cleave an S-ranked monster in two.

Whoosh. Whoosh. Whoosh.

Despite the axe flying towards her rapidly,

Medusa's only action was to lightly swing the trident she held.

Clang.

Not even an attack, just a simple swing.

With just that, the Unique-grade axe shattered.

"You son of a bitch!!"

Kwon Kang-hyuk shouted, releasing his mana.

Tring.

[Skill 'Beast's Blessing' (S) has been activated.]

His mana-enveloped body seemed to grow larger, eventually transforming into a complete Dinosaur.

He recognized that he had to fight with all his might from the start.

Soon after, Park Sung-jin, Kwak Si-yang, and Im Ah-young formed a battle formation.

Kwon Kang-hyuk would act as the tank, buying time, and Im Ah-young would bind the opponent's feet.

In that gap, Park Sung-jin and Kwak Si-yang would prepare their big skills.

It was a formation they had tirelessly practiced in the Onsaemiro guild building.

That was why Kwon Kang-hyuk charged out first.

The best tank in New Korea.

Kwon Kang-hyuk, who had increased his size to a 3-meter-tall dinosaur, clashed with the trident wielded by the less than 2-meter-tall Medusa.

And the result was.

Clang.

"Kuhak...!!"

Kwon Kang-hyuk, who was thrown back, spat out blood.

His skill was forcibly deactivated, and his body returned to normal.

It was enough to be ashamed of the title of New Korea's best tank.

[I shall bestow trials upon the insects.]

Medusa pointed her trident at the remaining party members.

"I'll draw her attention."

Park Sung-jin, having fully completed his mana release, enveloped his Nason Chilji with mana.

He had watched Kwon Kang-hyuk's axe break a moment ago.

That was why he intended to check her movements with sword energy from a distance.

"I'll help too."

Tae-hyun also took out a new dagger from his chest.

Unique-grade item, Valhalla.

The second dagger given to him by Ji Jin-hee as a gift for promoting national prestige.

Tae-hyun and Park Sung-jin flew sword energy, circling around Medusa.

Medusa quickly fended off the sword energy and approached Park Sung-jin.

Clang. Clang. Clang clang.

"Kuh..."

Only three exchanges had occurred.

Yet, that was enough to draw blood from Park Sung-jin's mouth.

[Such paltry blades.]

Just as Medusa was about to swing her trident widely.

Clang!!

Tae-hyun, having rushed in, blocked it with Valhalla instead.

Screech. Screech.

Valhalla, clad in crimson mana, stood evenly against Medusa's trident.

Medusa showed an expression of interest for a moment.

Thwack.

A snake suddenly sprang out from Medusa's skirt as a surprise attack.

[Shararara.]

Tae-hyun retreated, repelling the snake that clung to Valhalla.

In that gap, Medusa, who had approached, was extending her trident.

At that moment.

Crack.

The trident, which had been thrust right in front of him, froze solid.

It was Ah-young's 'Ice Age'.

'Good timing.'

At the same time as Tae-hyun retreated.

Clang.

Kwak Si-yang's condensed mana bullet struck Medusa's face.

Blood flowed from Medusa's face.

[How dare you...]

Medusa, trembling with anger, threw her trident at Kwak Si-yang.

"Ugh...!!"

At the moment he thought Kwak Si-yang's body, caught off guard, had stiffened.

Clang!!

Park Sung-jin quickly followed and fended off the trident.

Crack.

Just that alone put a crack in Nason Chilji.

"That goddamn snake bastard!!"

Kwon Kang-hyuk, who had belatedly recovered, shouted and stood up.

There was no penalty for deactivating his skill by using a scroll.

Tring.

[Skill 'Beast's Blessing' (S) has been activated. Version: Tau King]

He, transformed into a 2-meter-sized Tau King, swung his fist greatly.

Thwack.

[……!!]

Medusa's body floated into the air due to the unexpected strength.

Tae-hyun reached out his hand and used a skill.

Tring.

[Skill 'Chains of Entrapment' (AAA) has been activated. Target identified.]

Swish.

Before Medusa could regain her posture.

The materialized chains wrapped around Medusa.

[Petty tricks...!!]

Sinister energy exploded from Medusa's body.

Tick. Tick tick.

Cracks appeared on the chains.

Medusa's expression changed at the unexpected result.

Tae-hyun clenched his hand, which he had extended towards Medusa.

[Skill 'Chains of Entrapment' (AAA) is being strengthened. Mana consumption is accelerating.]

Rumble rumble rumble.

The strengthened chains began to constrict Medusa's body.

"Now!!"

At the same time as Tae-hyun shouted, the four activated their skills.

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

[Skill 'Ice Age' (S) is being strengthened. Mana consumption is accelerating.]

[Skill 'Iaido' (S) has been activated. Target identified.]

[Skill 'Mana Condensation' (S) has been activated. Condensation rate: 80%]

[Skill 'Beast's Blessing' (S) has been activated. Version: Minotaur Queen]

Boom!!!

An explosion occurred that shook the dungeon.

"Damn it... did we get her?"

"Don't say that!!"

"That was definitely a slip of the tongue. Guild Leader Kwon Kang-hyuk."

"......"

Despite their individual reactions, their eyes were searching for Medusa hidden in the dust.

At that moment, a pair of red eyes flashed.

[I will bestow divine punishment upon the insects.]

Whoosh.

The dust scattered from the sinister energy that had exploded from her body.

It wasn't just Medusa.

Even the dozens of snakes that made up her hair were now red-eyed.

Tring.

[Mana usage has been detected. You have been afflicted with 'Great Mana'. Resisting with mysterious power. Resistance successful.]

Crackle.

Their bodies simultaneously began to stiffen.

"This...!!"

"Petrification!!"

"Shit!!"

"T, Tae-hyun...!!"

The four tried to resist, but it was not enough.

They did not yet possess the mana resistance to stand against an SS-ranked monster.

Their gazes all turned to Tae-hyun.

"There's no need to panic."

Tae-hyun gestured for them to stay still.

"But...!!"

"A way...!!"

Kwak Si-yang and Park Sung-jin shouted urgently.

Tae-hyun continued, unconcerned.

"Your bodies will stiffen, and your consciousness will gradually fade."

"Damn it!! Do something..."

"Kim Tae-hyun...!!"

The four could not finish their words.

Because their bodies had already completely turned to stone.

"Those who look into Medusa's eyes turn to stone. That's all."

Looking at his petrified companions,

Tae-hyun murmured quietly.

Four statues had been added to the place where Medusa had been.

It was Park Sang-jin, Kwak Si-yang, Kwon Kang-hyuk, and Im Ah-young, who had been exuding fighting spirit until just a moment ago.

Even though his companions had all turned to stone, Tae-hyun did not panic.

It was something he had already expected.

Medusa showed interest in Tae-hyun, who had endured her technique.

[What are you? Possessing the power of a higher species in the body of an insect.]

"I'm getting tired of hearing that insect talk."

Tae-hyun gripped Valhalla in reverse grip.

Without conversation.

It meant that he would continue the battle.

[You intend to face me with that much power?]

At the moment he thought Medusa's red eyes were becoming even more intense.

[Mana usage has been detected. You have been afflicted with 'Great Mana'. Resisting with mysterious power. Resistance partially successful. Mana is infiltrating. Petrification is progressing.]

['Great Mana' is in effect. Strength decreases by 10.]

['Great Mana' is in effect. Stamina decreases by 10.]

['Great Mana' is in effect. Speed decreases by 10.]

['Great Mana' is in effect. Mana decreases by 3.]

"Not bad."

Tae-hyun muttered, looking at the constantly appearing message windows.

[You are not afraid.]

"Why should I be afraid?"

Medusa's face showed that she did not understand the question.

Tae-hyun clicked his tongue and released his mana.

"To someone weaker than me, that is."

[......!!]

He used his second skill.

Tring.

[Skill 'Lord's World' (AAA) has been activated. Physical stats are enhanced.]

Whoosh.

Tae-hyun's mana was overlaid on top of Medusa's mana.

It was a field that increased his own stats and decreased the opponent's stats.

"Medusa. Is this all the skills you have?"

Looking at Medusa, who was panicking in his field,

Tae-hyun gave a bitter smile.

Just as an Awakened used skills.

Monsters also used mana to use techniques similar to skills.

The technique used by Medusa was a power that was different from ordinary 'Petrification'.

High mana resistance was essential to counter it.

In that respect, Tae-hyun was her natural enemy.

'About 40 seconds left.'

He could see Medusa panicking inside the 'Lord's World'.

In that gap, Tae-hyun confirmed the positions of his petrified companions.

Before entering the un-cleared dungeon, Tae-hyun had numerous sparring sessions with them.

The record was 123 wins and 0 losses.

All Tae-hyun's victories.

'No matter how many S-rank high-level players there are, they can't be the opponent of an SS-rank.'

That was the conclusion Tae-hyun had reached.

Nevertheless, the reason he brought them to the place where Medusa was, was the same reason as the other players waiting outside the door.

Growth.

It was to create an extreme situation facing death.

They were four people who had reached the realm of S-rank.

He judged that they could withstand Medusa's petrification for about 1 minute.

If Medusa died before 1 minute passed, the petrification would be released, and they would gain considerable stats as a reward for withstanding the great mana.

All of this was a plan that was established under the assumption that he could finish Medusa off in the remaining 30 seconds.

[There!!]

Even though her senses were disappearing.

Medusa's red eyes accurately identified Tae-hyun's position.

Whoosh.

Thud.

The trident that she had thrown at Kwon Kang-hyuk flew to Medusa's hand and was caught.

Clang!!

Valhalla and the trident collided, and a deafening sound rang out.

Then, the trident was swung quickly.

Tae-hyun used his third skill.

[Skill 'Monster's Eye' (AAA) has been activated. Opponent's movements are identified.]

Medusa's movements slowed down rapidly.

No, what had changed was not Medusa's movements, but Tae-hyun's dynamic vision.

Stab stab stab.

Valhalla stabbed various parts of Medusa's body.

Before Medusa could even scream, the fourth skill was used.

[Skill 'Lord's Aura' (AAA) has been activated. Target identified.]

Rumble.

A huge gravity pressed down on Medusa's entire body.

Screech.

Medusa used the trident as a support to endure it.

[Skill 'Chains of Entrapment' (AAA) has been activated. Target identified.]

Swish.

The chains, strengthened by 'Lord's Aura', re-bound Medusa's body.

Medusa, whose limbs were bound, let out a shriek.

She belatedly realized.

That the power Tae-hyun possessed was not the same level as hers.

But it was already too late when she realized.

Tring.

[Unique Skill 'Devour' (AAA) has been activated. Target identified.]

Crack.

A huge maw opened up beneath Medusa's feet.

And.

"Bon appétit."

Crunch. Crunch. Crunch.

A gruesome sound echoed in the field.

But.

Medusa's screams did not last long.

Episode 164

Taehyun canceled 'Lord's World'.

The darkness that had fallen returned to its original state.

The only difference from before was that Medusa, the master of the dungeon, was gone.

That was about it.

Swish.

As the remaining skills were canceled, the red eyes returned to normal.

Messages appeared before his eyes.

[Consumed immense magic power. Magic power increased by 1.]

[Consumed immense magic power. Magic power increased by 1.]

[Consumed immense magic power. Magic power increased by 1.]

[Consumed immense magic power. Magic power increased by 1.]

…….

'I barely made it in time.'

55 seconds.

The time it took for the party to turn to stone and Taehyun to defeat Medusa alone.

Taehyun looked around.

Hundreds of statues were frozen in different poses.

Among them.

Crack. Crackle.

One of the statues began to crack.

It was Kwak Siyang, petrified while holding his staff.

"The Magician class definitely has high magic resistance."

Tick. Crackle. Crackling.

Starting with Kwak Siyang, the statues of Park Sungjin, Lim Ahyeong, and Kwon Kanghyuk moved in turn.

"Guild Leader Kwon Kanghyuk really needs to do something about his magic resistance."

Putting aside the other two.

It was troublesome for his magic resistance to be lower than Ahyeong's, who was only a low-grade S rank.

'Was it like this in my past life?'

Taehyun recalled Kwon Kanghyuk, who was an SS-rank player before his regression.

He was known as a physical fighter, but there was no memory of such a weakness being highlighted.

In other words.

'He's compensating for his weakness somewhere...'

For now, it wasn't possible to guess exactly when that would be.

'Should I tell him to get some items for the next dungeon?'

The special abilities of SS-rank monsters are usually not something that can be handled with Unique-grade items.

You could tell just by looking at Park Sungjin's Spiral Seven Branches or Kwon Kanghyuk's hand axe.

Unique-grade equipment costs anywhere from tens of millions to billions.

Using such items as disposable items was not cost-effective.

That was why Taehyun used magic power to coat his body or weapons.

"Well, things would be different if Legendary-grade items came out."

Thinking of items that hadn't been officially released yet, Taehyun licked his lips.

In the meantime.

Crackle. Crackling.

All four players were freed from their petrified state.

Their memories had been cut off the moment they were petrified.

As they regained their senses, they continued the words they hadn't been able to say before.

"...I can't stay like this!!"

"...There's nothing!!"

"...Try it!!!"

"...Hyun!!!"

Taehyun greeted them happily.

He knew that various messages would be appearing before their eyes.

"Congratulations. I'm glad you made it."

"The monster?!!"

Kwak Siyang, who was the first to grasp the situation, asked while raising his staff.

The other three also did the same.

They took a fighting stance and looked behind Taehyun.

Medusa, who had been exuding overwhelming pressure, was nowhere to be seen.

"Where did that snake head go!!"

Kwon Kanghyuk shouted while taking a boxing stance.

His hollow cry echoed through the wide hall.

"There's nothing to worry about. Medusa is dead."

Taehyun said, raising Valhalla.

Drip. Drop.

Blood that appeared to be Medusa's was dripping from the raised Valhalla.

The expressions of the party members were dyed with astonishment.

Where SS-rank monsters appear, screams are bound to resound.

Just the magic power they emit is enough to make you wonder when you'll die.

The Milan Dungeon was no different.

B-rank, A-rank, and S-rank monsters poured in from the entrance of the dungeon, and occasionally S+ rank monsters threatened the raid party.

In that dungeon.

Lively voices and laughter echoed.

Crack. Crack. Crackle.

Some porters even lit bonfires and grilled meat for the raid party.

All of this was happening right in front of Medusa's room.

"I never thought I would be a member of a team raiding an uncompleted dungeon."

One of the porters said, taking a spoonful of warmed soup.

"Me neither. More than that, wouldn't this make us the first in the country?"

"What do you mean the first in the country? If the Union hasn't done it yet, we might be the first in the world?"

"Kuh... My patriotism is rising!!"

"Madam, a bowl of potion here."

"Heh heh heh. You crazy bastards."

An atmosphere of camaraderie that was hard to believe was in an uncompleted dungeon.

All of this was thanks to the five main players leading the raid party.

Kim Taehyun. Park Sungjin. Kwak Siyang. Kwon Kanghyuk. Lim Ahyeong.

Their appearance of coming out of Medusa's room without any particular injuries was vivid.

Just five people took care of an SS-rank monster, and without a single dropout.

Zero casualties for three days after entering the uncompleted dungeon.

It was an unbelievable number.

"But is it really okay to rest like this?"

It was a porter belonging to Onsemiro who asked that.

"That's right. Even though we caught the dungeon boss, a break hasn't occurred. This is the first time in my 10 years of being a porter."

A porter belonging to the Association said in agreement.

Because they had not heard a detailed explanation due to the gathering of only outstanding raid members.

It was a B-rank player belonging to the Magicians who resolved their curiosity.

"I overheard the Guild Leaders talking earlier... it seems like this place is a double dungeon."

"A double dungeon?!!"

"Crazy... A double dungeon in an uncompleted dungeon...?"

"W-Wait a minute...!! Does that mean there's one more SS-rank monster?"

The startled porters shouted without realizing it.

The gazes of those around them turned to them.

"Whoa, whoa, calm down. I only heard it in passing, so..."

The Magicians' guild member chuckled at the reaction that was more surprising than he thought.

Similarly, veteran players showed composure towards the surprised porters.

"What if it's a double dungeon? There hasn't been a single casualty so far."

"Right. There's still plenty of food and potions."

"Bring on one more."

Four S-rank players and one SS-rank player.

The morale of the raid party rose even further as they thought of the reliable main force.

"If I had known it would be like this, I would have told them it was a double dungeon."

Kwon Kanghyuk said with an embarrassed face.

His developed hearing had been listening to everything the guild members were saying.

"That's right. I never thought there would be this much leeway in an uncompleted dungeon. I didn't expect it."

Kwak Siyang said in agreement.

He was also bewildered by the unprecedented situation.

It was hard to believe that there were zero casualties in a dungeon of S-rank or higher.

To think there were zero casualties in an SS-rank dungeon.

'All of this is possible due to the influence of one person...'

Kwak Siyang once again realized how amazing Taehyun was.

"You seem to be thinking the same thing as me."

Park Sungjin, who had been quietly chewing on jerky, said.

Usually, the most casualties in a dungeon raid occur when hunting the boss.

Players weaker than the boss fall off due to the boss's resistance.

It's the same whether a B-rank player loses their life in an A-rank dungeon, an A-rank player loses their life in an S-rank dungeon, or an S-rank player loses their life in an uncompleted dungeon.

In fact, just a moment ago, the four of them had been on the verge of crossing the River Jordan.

The gap between an S-rank player and an SS-rank monster.

'In the worst case, I thought our sacrifices would be inevitable...'

That wasn't the case.

Taehyun hunted the SS-rank monster alone even in a situation where the four of them were neutralized.

In other words.

From the beginning, the four of them were nothing more or less than surplus power.

"Huh... Damn... When did he get so strong?"

"He's definitely a growth type, but it's unbelievable."

"I agree."

"……."

The four people marveled at Taehyun's skill, which knew no bounds.

"Hoo... More than that, it would be troublesome if the next dungeon is like this too."

Park Sungjin said, looking at the cracked Spiral Seven Branches.

The other three fell silent.

They were reminded of the moment when they were helpless against Medusa.

"Tch. More than that, where did the leader of the raid party go?"

Kwon Kanghyuk changed the subject as if to change the atmosphere.

"Player Kim Taehyun said he would rest inside the door."

"Tsk, he's fearless."

Kwon Kanghyuk got up from his seat and walked towards the door.

He was famous for his macho personality, but.

He also had an inner respect for the past achievements Taehyun had shown.

That was the same for the other two.

Kwak Siyang got up first, and Park Sungjin followed behind.

Watching them walk away, Ahyeong's mind became complicated.

"……."

Two of the four great guild leaders and one of the association's top executives.

Players symbolizing the New Korea were voluntarily following Taehyun.

Since when?

When did Taehyun start to look different?

Since when?

When did she start to feel pathetic?

"……."

Ahyeong shook her head violently and followed the three people in front.

The space where Medusa reigned.

Taehyun was looking at the status window at what appeared to be an altar.

Name: Kim Taehyun

Age: 20

Rank: AAA

Strength: 221 Stamina: 223 Speed: 220 Magic Power: 333 Charm: 182

Fatigue: 30%

Remaining Magic Power: 300/333

[Skills]

Devour (AAA) - Can devour the desired target. Yoma Power: 50

Shadow Skin (AAA) - Hides the body along with physical enhancement. Yoma Power: 10

Lord's World (AAA) - Forms a special field enhanced with magic power. Yoma Power: 30

Lord's Haki (AAA) - Emits Haki enhanced with magic power. Yoma Power: 20

Chains of Restraint (AAA) - Designates an opponent and restrains them. Skill tracking and cancellation are possible. Yoma Power: 20

Man of the Queen (AAA) - Summons the Queen of Succubi, Rosaria. Yoma Power: 300

Complete Hypnosis (AAA) - Designates an opponent and hypnotizes them. Yoma Power: 100

Blood Frenzy (AAA) - Activates physical abilities. Yoma Power: 200

Monster's Eye (AAA) - Red eyes are activated. Yoma Power: 10

"Hmm...."

Considering that he devoured an SS-rank monster, his stats didn't increase that much.

But considering the level he had reached, the current growth was by no means something to be taken lightly.

Taehyun recalled the battle with Medusa.

'I can now handle about two SS-rank guys at the same time?'

Monsters that had driven countless S-rank players to their deaths in his past life.

A trident harder than Unique-grade. Poison applied to that trident, and the petrification ability.

An opponent he would have struggled against just half a year ago was no longer difficult.

It was a part that showed how much he had grown in the meantime.

'The problem is the next guy.'

The boss of the uncompleted Barcelona dungeon and the mastermind of the double dungeon.

It was when he was trying to predict the battle with the next opponent.

"What are you doing here alone?!!"

Kwon Kanghyuk's voice could be heard from far away.

"Ah, you've arrived. I was meditating."

"Huh. How long are you going to rest? I think we should start looking for the next gate."

Kwon Kanghyuk said with a restless expression.

"There's no need for that."

"What? Why?"

"Double dungeons don't just have one form."

"What does that mean?"

This time, Kwak Siyang, who had followed him in, asked.

Then, Park Sungjin and Ahyeong came in one after another.

Taehyun checked his watch.

"It's better to see it directly than to hear it."

"……?"

"What are you talking about?"

"It's almost time."

Taehyun said that and got up from his seat.

Boom boom boom.

Rumble rumble rumble.

The dungeon began to shake.

It was a vibration that could only be felt when a break occurred.

The outside instantly became noisy.

'Now, let's start.'

Exactly one hour after Medusa's death.

It was the timing for the Barcelona dungeon to reveal its appearance.

165

The dungeon trembled.

This was typically a sign of an impending break, but the four people knew it was more than just a simple break.

"What's going to happen now?"

"It's not like I know everything."

Taehyun nonchalantly feigned ignorance.

Predicting events that hadn't happened yet could raise suspicion.

"Hmm..."

Ignoring the uneasy expressions of the four,

Taehyun clenched and unclenched his fist.

One hour after the fight with Medusa.

His body had recovered sufficiently.

Taehyun unleashed his magic.

KWAHHHHH.

Magic exceeding 300 filled the area once dominated by Medusa.

He was preparing to use skills at any moment.

"Huh...!!"

"Shit..."

"Amazing..."

"......!!"

The faces of the four changed once again at the immense power.

A strength that couldn't be considered the same as other players.

It was a sense of awe at facing such power.

"From now on, Party 1 will be led by Guild Master Kwon Ganghyeok, Party 2 by Guild Master Gwak Siyang, and Party 3 by Player Park Seongjin."

"What should I do?"

Ahyeong asked proactively.

"You'll move between the three parties and provide support."

"Got it."

"Player Kim Taehyun, first explain..."

"Ah, you men talk too much. You'll see when you see it."

At the same time, screams were heard from outside.

The monster assault had begun.

Shortly after, two players who had been on guard duty entered.

"Something terrible has happened!! Monsters are pouring out of a gate that suddenly appeared!!"

"Go. You're the only ones who can handle them."

Kwon Ganghyeok grabbed Gwak Siyang by the waist and rushed out, followed by Park Seongjin and Im Ahyeong.

Left alone, Taehyun maximized his sensory perception.

His magic was already unleashed.

His physical senses were fully heightened.

'Where are you?'

Taehyun's magic detected numerous monsters.

Monsters were being transported through gates opened throughout the dungeon.

Most were A to S+ rank monsters.

Higher level than the ones previously in the Milan Dungeon.

'There's going to be quite a few casualties.'

Until now, there had been no major crises or sacrifices.

That was because this place had a simple structure for an uncaptured dungeon.

If you sequentially deal with the monsters from the entrance, you will find a room with a boss monster.

The room is huge, and there is only one monster that dominates the dungeon.

'This is the common knowledge that the association has at this point, but.'

It was different in his past life.

Already at that time, there were various dungeons that went beyond the concept of dual dungeons.

SS-rank monsters and above have power and abilities that transcend common sense.

Their special abilities surpass those of S-rank players, not to mention their physical abilities.

Among them, there are particularly strong monsters.

The association gave them a + rank.

In the case of S rank, it is a sign indicating the grand.

Based on the information he obtained after regression.

'There's a high possibility that such a guy received the power of a Great Duke.'

'Kaiselin', whom he met at the Tower of Dragonkin.

'Kentamion', who killed Sword Demon Nakata Shinji in one blow.

'Venom', presumed to have killed Ricky Hallis in his past life.

All of them were stronger than the Medusa he had just faced.

So.

There was a high probability that the guy who would appear here now also received the power of a Great Duke.

'It won't be easy since it's a guy who keeps someone like Medusa under him.'

As Taehyun was thinking that.

He felt a huge magic power encroaching around him.

"......!!"

A gate was being created right in front of him.

The size of the gate also indicates the level of the monster.

In that respect, the gate in front of him was well over 5 meters in size.

KWAHHHHH.

An ominous magic power leaked from the gate.

Crackle. Crackle.

Two magical powers mixed together and sparked.

'I lured him properly.'

There were two things he had realized while dealing with SS-rank monsters.

One is that they are extremely arrogant in proportion to their power, and the other is that they are interested in strong humans.

'If I spread my magic like this, they can't help but come.'

Taehyun strengthened his magic and watched the gate.

About a minute passed.

Thud. Thud. Thud. Thud.

A man walked out of the gate.

Nearly 2 meters tall.

Heterochromatic eyes of blue and red.

Similarly, long hair mixed with blue and red.

Of course, it was a face he had never seen before.

'Humanoids aren't even surprising anymore.'

He had already seen many monsters polymorph into humans.

Taehyun was not a naive player enough to identify his opponent by his appearance.

Above all.

A considerable amount of magic was flowing out from the being in front of him.

He wasn't bothering to control the huge magic power within him.

[Where is Medusa?]

Even though the man's mouth did not open.

The meaning was conveyed to Taehyun's mind.

It was the language of monsters.

"You knew all along, didn't you?"

Taehyun said, drawing Valhalla from his waist.

[Hahaha. How interesting.]

Crackling.

He only laughed.

Nevertheless, the magic power amplified and the balance, which had been in stalemate, collapsed.

Taehyun's magic began to be pushed back in an instant.

Crackling. Crackling.

7 to 3.

That was the ratio of the space currently occupied by the man and Taehyun.

"Basilisk. You live up to your name."

[How do you know my name? Did Medusa tell you?]

Taehyun shook his head.

"Medusa didn't have time to say such things. And."

[Hmm?]

"It's not just your name that I know."

Taehyun took a step towards him.

Ding.

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

Crackling.

First, his body was strengthened.

"The techniques you use. I'm sure I know them too."

Then.

Swoosh.

Taehyun's body disappeared as it was.

Just before Taehyun encountered the Basilisk.

Outside the door was a scene of carnage.

"Hold them back!!"

"Don't retreat!!"

Crack.

One B-rank tanker died instantly from a drake's kick.

"Damn it!!"

The man, who had lost his companion in an instant, looked around.

As an A-rank player affiliated with the Mages, he had faced various monsters.

Although he had set foot in the deep parts of the Abyss several times.

This was the first time he had witnessed so many monsters.

A-rank monster Drake.

A-rank monster Sneider.

S-rank monster Imoogi.

S-rank monster Hydra.

In addition to those, there were beings that would not be strange to be designated as S+ rank.

Two Grand Hydras were wreaking havoc.

Crackling.

Ahyeong quickly froze the two Grand Hydras.

It was only a brief stall, but it was enough time to counterattack.

"Euryah!!"

Kwon Ganghyeok, who had transformed into a dinosaur, knocked down one of the Grand Hydras.

In the gap, Park Seongjin cut off its head, and Gwak Siyang broke its magic stone.

While five casualties occurred, they had dealt with one S+ rank monster.

"What a tremendous number."

Park Seongjin said with a fed up expression.

He had dealt with a considerable number of monsters while reaching this place.

But still, so many monsters are pouring out?

Without knowing, this dual dungeon was also abnormal.

Of course, its form was also very different from what he knew.

'Kim Taehyun... How does he know all this? No, more than that, what is he doing inside...'

The moment he had such a question.

KWAHHHHHH.

A huge explosion was heard.

It was Taehyun from inside the remaining door.

Following that, a wave of magical power swept through the area.

Thump. Thump. Thump.

Some players couldn't withstand the power and collapsed.

"Wh, what is this..."

"......!!"

"Shit... I'm going crazy."

"Kim Taehyun...!!"

The bodies of the four people, who finally realized the situation, froze.

The same was true for the other players.

Even if they managed to stop this unbelievable rush.

'If Player Kim Taehyun loses, we are all dead.'

The shadow of death seemed to loom over them.

Clang!!

'It's solid.'

Taehyun withdrew his body along with Valhalla, which had bounced off.

Kwaang!!

It was the place where Taehyun had been standing just a moment ago.

That place exploded without any warning.

'That's an annoying ability.'

Kwaang. Kwaang. Kwaang.

Taehyun retreated far back from the chain explosion.

[Is what you're going to show me just running away?]

Humanoid monster.

Basilisk stopped moving, sneering.

"Of course not."

Taehyun said that and released his stealth.

He tried it just in case.

But no matter how high his stealth skill was, he only realized that he couldn't fool SS-rank monsters.

'Especially in front of those heterochromatic eyes.'

Taehyun recalled the information about Basilisk he had heard in his past life.

The monster the attack party encountered after killing Medusa.

Basilisk, the ruler of two dungeons, who was later given the SS+ rank.

He was subjugated by the attack party that Cody Cruz had separately formed.

He showed the power to take a considerable number of players with him until the end.

Cody Cruz, who had painstakingly subdued Basilisk at the time, said.

His heterochromatic eyes were said to use 'spatial explosion' and 'hypnosis'.

At that time, Basilisk, who had stopped the space explosion, spread his arms.

[I want to have a conversation with you. Human.]

The moment his heterochromatic eyes seemed to flicker.

Ding.

[Magic use detected. You have been afflicted with 'Great Magic'. Resisting with mysterious power. Partially successful in resisting. Magic permeates. Petrifying.]

['Great Magic' is in effect. Strength reduced by 15.]

['Great Magic' is in effect. Stamina reduced by 10.]

['Great Magic' is in effect. Speed reduced by 5.]

['Great Magic' is in effect. Magic reduced by 10.]

Taehyun let out a hollow laugh at the messages appearing in front of him.

He could feel his physical stats dropping.

"You bastard. The guy who said he wanted to talk is cheating, huh?"

[...]

Basilisk remained silent at the unexpected sight.

In that gap, Taehyun took out and drank a potion.

It seemed like the reconnaissance was enough.

[Phew. An insect hastens its death.]

Basilisk's magic, which revealed its true colors, increased.

Taehyun also activated three skills.

Ding.

[Skill Lord's World (AAA) has been activated. Physical stats are improved.]

[Skill Demonic Eye (AAA) has been activated. Identifies opponent's movements.]

[Skill Lord's Ferocity (AAA) has been activated. Targets the subject.]

KWAHHHHHH.

"Bow your head."

Kugugugugung.

In Taehyun's red eyes, the magic power pressing down on him was clearly visible.

Basilisk's expression crumpled for the first time.

Episode 166

The skill 'Lord's Heart' and 'World of Silence' were fused to create the skill 'Lord's World,' exclusively for Taehyun.

It was a field that increased his stats and decreased the stats of monsters, and a skill that cornered Medusa.

That power was used once again.

Whoosh.

The area was enveloped in darkness.

Basilisk's figure was visible in Taehyun's crimson eyes.

He seemed momentarily taken aback, but now he was more intrigued.

Even though he was being crushed by 'Lord's Presence' and 'Lord's World.'

It was different from the flustered Medusa.

'Indeed. He can withstand this much.'

Taehyun marveled quietly.

As expected, an easy victory seemed unlikely.

'Cody Cruise, that guy. He actually caught someone like this.'

SS-Rank License Award Ceremony.

He knew it instantly back then.

That Cody Cruise was the only one with similar skills to himself at this point.

From his past life to his present life.

He was the man who had always been called the strongest during Taehyun's two lives.

Basilisk was the being that such a man had caught while struggling.

He never intended to catch him easily from the start.

[A bug with this much power… Medusa was definitely not enough.]

"The guy who was cheating is showing off."

Basilisk remained steadfast despite Taehyun's mockery.

[Tell me. Who gave you this power?]

Blue and red eyes scanned Taehyun.

Reading him.

The source of the magic Taehyun possessed.

A magic as ominous as his own.

Not only that, but even the crimson eyes of a higher species.

It was an irresistible combination of interest.

Which Archduke was interested enough to make a contract with a mongrel?

That was what Basilisk was curious about.

Taehyun grinned at Basilisk.

To be showing such composure with him right in front of him, he already seemed destined for a certain end.

"You guys only come to your senses when you get hit."

Ding.

[The skill Lord's Presence (AAA) is strengthened. Magic consumption is accelerated.]

[Unique skill Devour (AAA) has been activated. Target is specified.]

[Duplicate effects of skill Monster's Eye (AAA) and Devour (AAA) have been activated.]

[Skill Monster's Eye (AAA) is temporarily transformed into Eye of a Higher Species (AAA).]

Was it because he had opened the eye of a higher species?

He could see the magic flowing through Basilisk's body and the two magic stones embedded in his chest.

Taehyun pointed his index finger at one of them.

"Bite it."

Crack.

A huge maw opened up beneath Basilisk's feet.

Basilisk, who had been still all along, twitched.

The corners of his lips turned up.

[I see. You devoured Medusa with this power.]

"Correct."

Crunch.

The magic of Devour swallowed Basilisk.

Or so he thought, for a moment.

His magic was seething.

Taehyun didn't miss that moment because he had 'Eye of a Higher Species.'

'Reversal? No, that's…'

It was the moment he thought Devour had completely swallowed him.

[An interesting power.]

"......!!"

Taehyun quickly dodged at the voice he heard from behind.

Bang.

"Ugh…"

Even though he was still maintaining 'Shadow Skin.'

Taehyun's right arm exploded powerlessly.

"I didn't expect something like this."

His face was naturally contorted by the unexpected pain.

He had lost an arm, but he could see it clearly.

Shedding.

That was why he had been able to escape from Devour a moment ago.

'A monster's shedding…'

Unlike the dumbfounded Taehyun, Basilisk, who had landed a blow, seemed happy.

The joy of trampling on someone who had been so imposing was no different for humans or monsters.

[That was quite a plausible attack.]

'I was complacent.'

Since losing an arm, his magic had been shaking unstably.

No matter how well-trained his body was.

The proportion of the arm in a human body was by no means light.

Center of gravity and balance.

In addition to this, it was natural that there would be a drop in stats.

'I'll buy time for now.'

Moving his feet non-stop.

He poured a potion into his mouth.

Bang. Bang. Boom. Boom.

The space he stepped on exploded in pieces due to Basilisk's technique.

'Lord's Territory' and 'Lord's Presence.'

It was an attack made possible because the skills that had been pressing him had weakened.

[Don't run away. Bug.]

Basilisk shed again.

The moment his presence completely disappeared.

Boom!!

Taehyun's left leg exploded.

Thud.

Taehyun collapsed helplessly.

"Ugh…!!"

He instinctively raised his head.

Stomp. Stomp. Stomp. Stomp.

Basilisk, who had stopped attacking, was approaching.

[I'll ask you again. Who gave you this power?]

"Haa… haa… this is tough."

Taehyun took a heavy breath and raised his body with his remaining hand.

Basilisk was already right in front of him.

Even so, he no longer attacked Taehyun.

The composure that only the one who has seized victory can have.

He had already determined victory.

[Come under me. I will entrust you with the management of this dungeon.]

"Haha… I've never received a job offer from a monster before… a guy who was cheating…."

Basilisk's eyebrows twitched at the word cheating.

He didn't know exactly what it meant.

But it seemed clear that he was being mocked.

[Too bad.]

Basilisk, who said that, began to grow bigger and bigger.

A giant body reaching 5 meters with blue and red scales mixed together.

Not a human form, but his true form.

An incomparable magic flowed out of his enlarged body.

[I am a being who serves Archduke Jormungandr. I will give you divine punishment.]

'Crazy bastard. He's just going to eat me.'

Taehyun thought, checking his magic level.

It was worth it to buy time.

He had enough magic for the next skill.

[Skill Blood Rampage (AAA) has been activated. The body is activated.]

Scarlet magic bloomed and a familiar message popped up.

[A great power awakens. Strength increases. Strength is now 270.]

[A great power awakens. Stamina increases. Stamina is now 270.]

[A great power awakens. Speed increases. Speed is now 270.]

[A great power awakens. Magic increases. Magic is now 350.]

Was it the influence of Taehyun's increased vessel?

The limitation on stat increase had increased.

Crack. Cracking.

Clatter. Clatter.

The skill 'Blood Rampage' has ultra-high-speed regeneration ability.

Taehyun's exploded arms and legs were regenerated in an instant.

Crunch.

Basilisk's mouth belatedly swallowed Taehyun.

He was going to bite him to cut off his life.

And then swallow him whole with his magic.

But.

Ggrrrrrrrrrrr.

[......!!]

Basilisk's huge body twitched at his mouth, which could not be closed.

With this power, countless SS-Rank monsters had been torn apart.

To think that he was withstanding such occlusal force.

Tremble. Tremble.

"Keuh…"

Taehyun, who was barely holding on, threw his body with all his might.

Crunch.

Basilisk's mouth belatedly closed.

Crimson magic entered his gleaming eyes.

[So, it was Igmun who gave you the power.]

There was no need to answer that question.

Just because he regenerated didn't mean that the pain disappeared.

Taehyun moved his fully regenerated limbs.

"Basilisk. That was probably your last chance."

[A mongrel doesn't know his place.]

"I told you. I know quite a bit about you."

Taehyun raised all the remaining magic.

Kwaaaaaaaa.

The insufficient magic was replaced by absorbing the magic that had been scattered earlier.

It was instantaneous.

The area was surrounded by the magic of Devour.

[......!!]

Boom. Boom.

Basilisk's gaze belatedly caused a chain explosion.

But Taehyun's body was already completely protected by the magic of Devour.

Basilisk tried to shed again.

He was thinking of avoiding this attack first.

But.

Devour was already waiting with its mouth open, no matter where he ran.

[Unbelievable…!!]

"There's no way. The current me. Can't be weaker than that guy, right?"

Taehyun sneered and approached him.

He could see clearly with the 'Eye of a Higher Species.'

The magic of the panicked guy was trembling inside.

[I am Archduke Jormungandr's…!!]

"It's not like he's an Archduke."

Taehyun clenched his hand that was aimed at Basilisk.

Kwaaaaaaaaaaaaa.

Like a wolf hunting for prey.

All the magic in the area stuck to Basilisk.

"This is the power of the king."

Crack. Cracking.

Crunch. Crunching.

Clatter.

The SS+ rank monster, who received power from Archduke Jormungandr.

Basilisk, who ruled two uncaptured dungeons.

The body of that great monster began to disintegrate.

'Devour,' 'Lord's World,' 'Lord's Presence,' 'Shadow Skin,' 'Blood Rampage,' 'Monster's Eye.'

The skills that had been maintained to fight Basilisk were released one by one.

Thud.

Taehyun lay down on the floor and exhaled.

Numerous messages floated before his blurred eyes.

[Devoured a great being. Strength increased by 1.]

[Devoured a great being. Stamina increased by 1.]

[Devoured a great being. Magic increased by 1.]

[Devoured a great being. Speed increased by 1.]

…….

'I almost died.'

Even with the help of other SS-Rank players.

It was hard to understand how Cody Cruise had caught someone like this.

'But it was worth the trouble.'

It hadn't risen much even after catching Medusa, but this time it was different.

The messages announcing the stat increase were still floating.

Then, a shout came from outside.

When Basilisk, the boss of the double dungeon, died, the monsters began to flee.

The moment two uncaptured dungeons, Milan and Barcelona, ​​were captured.

'Haa… the alliance… isn't here yet, right?'

Taehyun recalled his memories of his past life.

The boss of the Paris uncaptured dungeon was 'Telikios.'

He was an SS-Rank monster of the magician class.

He heard that he had similar power to Medusa, as expected from his measurement value.

But he gave the attack team a lot of trouble because he had the ability to move around the dungeon.

'It probably took about 10 days.'

The main members are such outstanding people.

There wouldn't be a big sacrifice in the attack, but the title of first would be handed over to Shinhan.

'I'm tired.'

He didn't have the strength to drink a bottle of potion.

More than that, the rebound from overusing 'Blood Rampage' and 'Devour' was slowly coming.

'It would be difficult if other guys saw my current condition…'

As Taehyun was thinking that.

He heard someone approaching quickly.

"Kim Taehyun…!!"

It was Im Ah Young.

'Haa… should I call this fortunate…'

"……!!"

Ah Young, who confirmed Taehyun's condition, was surprised for a moment.

She nodded when she met his eyes.

Ding.

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

Jjjjjjjjjjj.

The exhausted-looking girl froze Taehyun's arms and legs.

'She's… quick-witted… I tell you.'

Taehyun was able to close his eyes with a comfortable heart.

167

Kevin Lee, President of the US Player Association.

An unexpected figure visited his office in Washington, D.C.

It was Vincent Chang, the head of the World Player Association, which manages player associations from various countries.

"I brought your favorite coffee beans."

President Kevin Lee said, handing over the coffee he had personally brewed.

"Thank you. It seems you're the only one who welcomes me."

Vincent Chang said with a sly smile.

"Haha. Who would dare mistreat the President of the World Player Association?"

"Sometimes, a position can corrupt a person."

The two engaged in friendly conversation.

Vincent Chang, as his name suggests, was a Chinese-American.

Considering the considerable anti-Chinese sentiment in the United States.

One could imagine the struggles he faced to reach his position.

Kevin Lee was the one who helped Vincent Chang rise to his current position.

With the support of Asians, who make up a significant portion of the world's population, and Americans, who pride themselves on being the world's strongest nation.

Vincent Chang was elected as the President of the World Player Association, and as Kevin Lee had anticipated, he became a reliable partner.

"So. What brings you all the way here?"

"Haha. You've been playing some mischievous games lately."

Vincent Chang answered, taking a sip of coffee at Kevin Lee's question.

"Games, you say? What are you referring to?"

Kevin Lee feigned ignorance.

It was just a habit.

A habit common among seasoned individuals who try to conceal their intentions as much as possible.

Vincent Chang bowed his head first.

"The proportion of American players in the uncompleted dungeon this time is quite high. Is it perhaps due to the upcoming assessment?"

Although SS-rank players have emerged, S-rank players are still objects of envy and symbols of national power.

In that regard, an uncompleted dungeon led by the United States.

B and A-rank players who survive the conquest of an SS-rank uncompleted dungeon.

They would be at an advantage in obtaining S-rank licenses in the future.

Kevin Lee laughed heartily at the obvious question.

"I'd be lying if I said no. But that level of mobilization is only possible for us, the United States."

"I agree. I came here to take care of you, Mr. President, who is working hard for the world."

With those words, Vincent Chang took out a small case.

"What's this?"

"Why don't you open it?"

Vincent Chang handed it over, and Kevin Lee opened the case.

Click.

There was a ring.

It was a ring with an unusual magical power.

"This... is it an item? And a pretty expensive one at that..."

"That's right. It's an item recovered from the Chinese government, which recently cracked down on the Triads."

"The Triads? Could it be...?"

The word "Triads" brought one item to Kevin Lee's mind.

Vincent Chang didn't miss the moment.

"Yes, it's a Legendary-grade item. One that hasn't been revealed yet."

"Oh..."

Kevin Lee picked up the ring and examined it from side to side.

A Legendary-grade item.

The World Player Association had secretly gathered artisans with S-rank production skills to create it, but the information was leaked to the Triads, who stole it.

He heard that the Triads were wiped out in the previous friendly match, and its whereabouts became unknown.

'Even if they made an agreement with the Chinese government and secretly got it back...'

"Why are you giving this to me...?"

Kevin Lee expressed his doubt.

The value of a Legendary-grade item is currently immeasurable.

Give and take.

There must be something he wanted.

Vincent Chang, aware of Kevin Lee's gaze, chuckled.

"Didn't I say? It's a gift. Your prestige must be upheld for my 'prestige' to be upheld as well."

Only then did Kevin Lee understand the hidden meaning.

The World Player Association presidential election, which would be held in a year.

Vincent Chang wanted to be re-elected.

"Ah... don't worry. The United States will be your strong supporter."

"Hehe. Thank you. The world can only be at peace when the United States is doing well."

"I appreciate you saying that."

The two, having reaffirmed their mutual interests, shook hands in satisfaction.

"Oh, by the way, it's best not to wear that ring right away."

"......?"

"The 'Legendary' grade isn't just for show. You'll need at least 300 magic power to use it."

"300... that's an absurd number."

"Yes, but the United States has two people who are fit for it."

Players with magic power stats exceeding 300.

It was as good as the owner being decided.

"Haha. You and I think alike."

Kevin Lee laughed heartily and put the case away.

"Now, assuming you'll use the gift well on your own. Shall we talk about business?"

"Go ahead."

Kevin Lee, feeling good after receiving a great gift, readily replied.

"The Paris uncompleted dungeon. How long do you think it will take to conquer?"

Vincent Chang asked that to enhance the status of the World Player Association.

To emphasize that even the world's strongest nation, the United States, is under their control.

Kevin Lee was well aware of that.

It was also an implication that could undermine the prestige of the US Player Association.

'But it's nothing compared to a Legendary-grade item.'

After organizing his thoughts, he brought some documents from his office.

They were confidential matters that the United States was secretly pursuing in relation to the uncompleted dungeon, Abyss.

Vincent Chang, after reviewing the documents, exclaimed in admiration.

"You're painting a bigger picture than I thought."

"You gave me a great gift. I had to let you know that much."

"Thank you for your trust. So, what is the final deadline for the Paris uncompleted dungeon?"

"Considering the supplies we brought, it will be conquered within the next 3 days."

"That's fast. Truly, they are the elite among the elite."

"That's not all. A week after the Paris job is done. We plan to enter Berlin right away."

"A week... you're moving quite fast. Is it because of Shinhan, perhaps?"

"I won't deny it."

Kevin Lee didn't bother to deny it.

"Although a player named Kim Tae-hyun is showing prominence, he's just an individual after all."

Vincent Chang still hadn't recognized Tae-hyun's true worth.

He was dismissing the incident at the award ceremony as a mere equipment malfunction.

The fact that he hadn't completely broken away from Sinocentrism also played a part.

"It doesn't hurt to be cautious."

Unlike his words, Kevin Lee's mind was complex.

Kim Tae-hyun of Shinhan.

He was a player recognized by Michael Gore, Ricky Hallis, and even Cody Cruz.

Considering the achievements he has made so far.

'The Milan dungeon will eventually be conquered... The update of humanity must be carried out by our United States.'

That was why he was hurrying.

Fortunately, the magic power levels of the Paris and Berlin uncompleted dungeons were relatively low.

If all goes well, after conquering the two dungeons first.

They could claim the rights to conquer the Barcelona dungeon and absorb Shinhan into the Allied Forces.

"You're having mischievous thoughts."

Vincent Chang, having read his thoughts once again, said.

"For the sake of the world. I consider it a karma that I must bear."

"I can only admire you."

As the two were exchanging compliments.

A secretary who came in with a knock quietly opened his mouth.

"Mr. President. The Dungeon Commander requests an audience."

"I'm currently receiving a guest. Tell him to wait a moment."

"That... it's about the uncompleted dungeon."

The words "uncompleted dungeon" perked up the ears of the two.

"It seems the news we've been waiting for has finally arrived."

"In that case, you can listen together. Bring the Dungeon Commander in."

Soon after, the Dungeon Commander in military uniform entered.

His expression, glancing at Vincent Chang, was not good.

"The President of the World Player Association is also waiting for the news. You may report."

With Kevin Lee's permission, the Commander saluted and opened his mouth.

"Mr. President. Two uncompleted dungeons have simultaneously broken."

"Two? Then does that mean the Milan uncompleted dungeon has already been conquered?"

Since other uncompleted dungeons would not have broken yet.

Kevin Lee thought that the two dungeons would be Paris and Milan.

Vincent Chang thought the same as well.

"Milan is correct... but the other one is not Paris."

"What?"

"Milan and Barcelona. The two dungeons have now been conquered and are breaking. The conquering country is Shinhan."

"......"

"What... Why Barcelona...?"

At the unexpected report.

The two presidents lost their words.

The Paris uncompleted dungeon broke the day after the two uncompleted dungeons broke.

It was news that many people had been waiting for, but the world was already focused on Shinhan.

'The identity of the Milan uncompleted dungeon is a double dungeon.'

'Kim Tae-hyun of Shinhan does it again.'

'The unknown uncompleted dungeon ecosystem. The pioneer is Kim Tae-hyun.'

'The number of casualties in Shinhan is counted at around 30.'

'President Ji Jin-hee. His leadership revitalized Shinhan.'

Ji Jin-hee quickly read the piles of newspapers.

Everywhere, there were articles about Shinhan, Tae-hyun, and the conquest team.

"Tae-hyun's words... were correct."

"Yes. Currently, requests for conquest are pouring in from all over the world."

"Requests... that's understandable."

This morning.

The Paris uncompleted dungeon was conquered.

It would have been an auspicious event for humanity if it had been the same as before.

Currently, the atmosphere was trending towards highlighting the incompetence of the United States and other great powers.

Not only did Shinhan, which entered later, conquer it earlier, but they even conquered the Barcelona uncompleted dungeon.

It was only natural that other countries, who had been waiting for the support of the United States, would naturally cling to Shinhan.

Many of them were tasks that could be solved with only mid-to-high level players.

"At this rate, it seems it won't take even 2 years to realize the President's dream."

"Haha. That's right... He's quite an amazing kid."

Ji Jin-hee chuckled, thinking of Tae-hyun, who was like a good luck charm.

"And... it's about Lee Jung-soo, Vice Chairman of Taesan Group..."

"Tell me."

Ji Jin-hee's expression hardened.

Lee Jung-soo, Vice Chairman of Taesan Group.

He was a person who was understood to have power equivalent to an S-rank player, even though he did not have a player license.

If he only focused on business as he does now, there would be nothing to worry about.

He has been continuously investing in the player industry and has been looking for opportunities.

Players who only exist for Taesan Group, not for the development of the Abyss and the extermination of monsters.

Knowing such ambition, Ji Jin-hee has been desperately preventing Taesan Group from entering the industry.

Although Taesan Guild, which was separated from Taesan Group, has been launched, it has not yet grown beyond the scale of a small-to-medium guild due to the cooperation between Ji Jin-hee and the Four Great Guilds.

"He's a man with endless greed."

Ji Jin-hee frowned, thinking of Lee Jung-soo.

"Even the results of the investigation by Nightwalker just came out. It is said that many of those who have been reported as members of the Taesan Guild have unclear identities. It seems that they are related to malicious guilds."

"Min Ji-hong... no, is there any news about 'that guy'...?"

At Ji Jin-hee's question, Go Tae-wook nodded.

"The shadow's back is suspicious... but it's not certain yet."

"I see. I should meet Guild Leader Yoo Ah-young once. Because there is no threat as great as a force that cannot be controlled."

"That's right..."

Go Tae-wook trailed off.

Along with the incident in Jeju Island.

Tae-hyun came to mind.

Okay, here is the translation of the provided text:

Episode 168

Seoul, Shinhan Republic.

There stood the headquarters of Taesan Electronics, a pillar of Shinhan's economy.

Lee Jung-soo, the CEO of Taesan Electronics and Vice Chairman of the Taesan Group.

His face contorted in anger.

Tear. Rip.

He tore the newspaper he was holding and threw it into the air.

Shredded pieces of Kim Tae-hyun's face fluttered down.

Grind.

"I should have caught him when he was just a brat..."

He gnashed his teeth, admitting his mistake.

He thought Kim Tae-hyun was just a nobody when his son, Lee Jung-jae, had trouble with him.

But now, Kim Tae-hyun's presence surpassed the entire Taesan Group.

Bang!

Lee Jung-soo slammed his fist on the desk.

The desk, worth tens of millions of won, shattered instantly.

'I can't reverse the situation like this.'

As a businessman, his judgment was excellent.

Early on, he realized that the future couldn't be dominated by capital alone.

'The world of the future belongs to strength, not capital.'

Perhaps it was because he was born with an S-grade physique.

He was convinced.

That the times were changing rapidly.

That capital without martial power would collapse.

He didn't choose the path of a Player to lead the Taesan Group.

Nevertheless, he continued to train his body by inviting outstanding Players.

That's why he gained strength equivalent to an S-grade Player without a Player license.

He had acquired one of the most formidable martial powers in Shinhan.

He immediately put the establishment of the Taesan Guild into action.

But.

'Those damn Association bastards.'

Chairman Ji Jin-hee of the Association and the four major guilds were watching Lee Jung-soo's moves closely.

Their obstruction was serious.

They realized Lee Jung-soo's ambition to swallow the industry by leveraging capital.

Chairman Ji Jin-hee immediately pushed for legislation to tighten the noose around Lee Jung-soo's neck.

Guilds not recognized by the Player Association have restrictions on recruitment.

While the establishment of the Taesan Guild was delayed, the Player industry grew rapidly.

His insight was correct, but he missed the crucial timing.

That's why Lee Jung-soo joined hands with an evil guild.

Those who didn't have a Player license but were more skilled than most Players.

Being criminals was a concern, but it could be controlled with great power.

'A good leader must be able to control his subordinates.'

He separated the Taesan Guild from the Taesan Group and launched it as a small-scale guild.

Afterwards, he devoted himself to his son, Lee Jung-jae.

His son, who inherited his blood more intensely than anyone else.

A child born with an S-grade physique.

Lee Jung-soo hired excellent Players to help Lee Jung-jae grow.

He sponsored GeonGuk High School to recruit outstanding talent for the Taesan Guild in the future.

Everything went smoothly after joining hands with the evil guild.

The crack started when that damn Kim Tae-hyun awakened.

His potential grade was unknown, an unawakened person who hadn't awakened until he was nineteen.

As he revealed his fangs, the situation changed rapidly.

The Player Association, which should have been weakened, was growing stronger day by day, and the evil guild collapsed, halving the power of the Taesan Guild.

Most of all.

Lee Jung-jae, who should have led the Taesan Guild.

The biggest problem was that the stupid son couldn't overcome his trauma.

'Kim Tae-hyun. I could chew you to death and it wouldn't be enough.'

That's when Lee Jung-soo was cursing him.

Swoosh.

Lee Jung-soo's body flinched at the sudden noise.

He turned around and there was a man standing there.

It was 'Shadow'.

"You look much worse than the last time I saw you."

"You've arrived."

Lee Jung-soo said without showing any discomfort.

If he had the level of an S-grade Player without a license, Shadow had the power of a national-level force.

The third leader of the Triad and the vice guild master of the evil guild.

The man who Nightwalker and the Player Association couldn't catch even though they were desperately chasing him.

That was the Shadow in front of him.

"What brings you here today...?"

Recently, Nightwalker and the Association's surveillance has intensified.

They were supposed to meet only on certain days.

"Ah, don't worry. I shook off the pursuers."

"......"

"I heard your son is graduating in a few days."

"That half-wit won't even be able to go to the graduation ceremony. All thanks to that damn Kim Tae-hyun."

Lee Jung-soo replied as if he was annoyed just thinking about it.

"I understand how you feel. There's nothing greater than a father's love."

Saying that, Shadow took something out of his pocket.

It was a potion in a transparent case.

"What is this?"

"It's a graduation gift for your son."

"......?"

"The depths of the Abyss. There are many monsters with mysterious powers there. This is the purified blood of one of them."

"The blood of a monster... Why...?"

Lee Jung-soo asked, unable to hide his surprised expression.

Even if it was purified, humans shouldn't drink the blood of a monster.

Their body would melt due to the terrible magic power, or their body would explode due to the overwhelming mana.

It was a fact that had already been proven by numerous experiments.

"You don't have to worry. It's something that has been thoroughly tested 'behind the scenes'. Your son will be able to break through the wall with just one potion."

"......!!"

Lee Jung-soo's body flinched involuntarily.

It was as if he knew what he was thinking.

'What a scary man. But.'

That's why there was no need to refuse.

Lee Jung-jae was of no use to him now.

Lee Jung-soo put the potion in his pocket.

"I'll make good use of it."

"Hehe. I hope the Vice Chairman is satisfied."

"How is 'the other side' going?"

"Taesan Pharmaceutical's stock price will soar soon. You should prepare in advance."

"Hoo. Are you finally moving?"

Lee Jung-soo's lips curled up.

He didn't just join hands with the evil guild to grow the Taesan Guild.

"Kim Tae-hyun and Ji Jin-hee. In the end, the two of them will face a miserable end."

"Hahaha. That's good to hear. I'll look forward to it."

For the first time in months.

Lee Jung-soo burst into a pleasant laugh.

Thinking that he would be the one laughing in the end.

GeonGuk High School's 53rd graduation ceremony.

Graduation ceremonies were everywhere in February, but the atmosphere at GeonGuk High School was particularly chaotic.

Because of the reporters filling the school.

"Wow... I've never seen so many reporters at a graduation ceremony before."

Jae-young mumbled with his mouth open.

Tae-hyun's aunt and uncle nodded in agreement.

"I know... I've never seen anything like this either."

"Honey. It seems like Tae-hyun has become a big shot, right?"

"I guess so. Let's go inside quickly."

The three lowered their heads and headed to the graduation hall.

'Wow... How can a person's life change so much in a year...'

Jae-young shook his head and moved his feet.

The three arrived at the entrance of the graduation hall.

"Hey, aren't those people Player Kim Tae-hyun's family?!"

"Oh, right!! They said he lived with his aunt's family!!"

"Excuse me!! Can we have a short interview..."

"Hey!! I was waiting first!!"

Reporters surrounded them in an instant.

Because the staff dispatched from the Association were controlling the entrance, they hadn't been able to get any decent stories yet.

Tae-hyun's relatives were good prey for them.

"Ugh. Those reporter trash."

"I know. They take pictures of civilians without a second thought."

The three were momentarily flustered by the reporters' actions with their cameras.

"Excuse me. You can't do this here."

A Player from the Association, who had arrived late, peeled off the reporters surrounding the three.

"Okay, let's go in."

"Ah, yes..."

"L, let's go in, honey."

"Excuse me..."

SS-grade Player Kim Tae-hyun's relatives.

Realizing their position anew.

The three entered the graduation hall.

Murmur.

Graduates and parents.

And relatives who came to see the two celebrities.

It was a graduation ceremony with an unprecedented number of people in GeonGuk High School's history.

"Valedictorian Kim Tae-hyun. Come forward."

"Salutatorian Im A-young. Come forward."

The two received awards as representatives of the graduates and read their graduation speeches in turn.

"This concludes the 53rd GeonGuk High School graduation ceremony."

Wowwwwwww.

The children smiled brightly as the graduation ceremony ended.

Tae-hyun was the same.

"Hyung... You're so awesome..."

Jae-young said, looking at the awards that Tae-hyun was holding in his hands.

"If you're so jealous, you should be a good student too."

Contrary to his words, it wasn't an award he received for being a good student.

He had dozens of achievements as a Player.

The reputation of his alma mater, GeonGuk High School, rose accordingly, and most of the awards were given for raising the school's prestige.

'I can skip school and still get an award. The world has gotten so much better.'

As he was thinking that, Im A-young approached.

Behind her were those who seemed to be her parents.

A-young and Tae-hyun greeted each other's families.

"You must be proud to have such a great nephew."

A-young's mother.

Ms. Yoon Chae-young smiled kindly.

Tae-hyun's aunt and uncle, who recognized that they were famous figures in the business world, thanked them in embarrassment.

While Ms. Yoon Chae-young was dealing with the other three.

"Tae-hyun, I'm A-young's dad. It's nice to meet you like this."

A-young's father.

Im Chang-yong, the vice chairman of Yuksung Group, offered a handshake.

"I've heard a lot about you. Nice to meet you."

Tae-hyun said, holding his hand.

"I've heard a lot about you from A-young. Thanks to talents like Tae-hyun, our Shinhan's future is bright."

"You're too kind."

Im Chang-yong used honorifics even though he was the head of a large corporation.

He recognized the size of the vessel regardless of age.

'If only I could have Tae-hyun as my son-in-law...'

Yuksung Group will soon become the best in the world.

He was convinced.

"If it's okay, I'd like to have a family meal together... Can you make time for me sometime?"

Im Chang-yong proposed politely.

'Yuksung Group... It wouldn't hurt to know them.'

He didn't think long.

"Of course. Let's set a time sometime."

"Thank you. I'll make a reservation at a good place."

Im Chang-yong was about to call his secretary to coordinate his schedule when.

Tae-hyun's lips curled up playfully.

"Oh, by the way, if it's a family, is Guild Leader Yoo A-young also with us?"

"......"

Im Chang-yong's mouth closed at the unexpected words.

Ms. Yoon Chae-young, who had been talking for a while next to him.

And Im A-young, who had been watching quietly, were the same.

"Ah, did I say something wrong?"

Tae-hyun asked, making an innocent expression, not caring about the cold atmosphere.

After a while.

"Then... Let's see each other next time."

Vice Chairman Im Chang-yong and Ms. Yoon Chae-young turned around with stiff expressions.

"Kim Tae-hyun."

A-young approached as if she had something to say.

"Im A-young. Let's see each other at the next raid."

"......"

They were equal graduates now.

But in private, they were a party leader and a party member, giving and receiving orders.

"...Okay."

A-young left the graduation hall with her family without saying much.

"Hoo... I was so nervous I thought I was going to die. Yuksung Group..."

Jae-young mumbled, exhaling.

His aunt and uncle were the same.

"Thank you for coming today."

"Ah, no. It's your nephew's graduation ceremony, so of course I had to come."

"Yeah... Of course I had to come. I was a little embarrassed to meet people I didn't expect..."

Tae-hyun smiled at them.

'This is what a real family is like.'

Far away.

A-young's family was seen leaving the school with escorts.

"Then, can you go home first? I'll look around the school for a bit and go back."

His aunt and uncle nodded.

"Huh? Where are you going?"

Jae-young asked curiously.

Swoosh.

Tae-hyun's body had already disappeared.

Before the reporters came.

There was a place he wanted to visit one last time.

169화

Swoosh.

Taehyun deactivated his stealth.

He was on the school rooftop.

"This place is still the same."

Late February.

It was still chilly, but the air was clear.

He climbed onto the edge of the railing.

He could see reporters swarming around the school, looking for him.

He chuckled.

He couldn't help but laugh.

The past, no, his previous life came to mind.

He had been beaten countless times here.

His opponents were low-level skill awakeners without player licenses.

Looking back, they were just naive and weak kids that he could only laugh at.

His current life was different.

It started here.

Taehyun had his first devouring on this rooftop.

Bae Hyuksoo's C-grade skill 'Stone Skin'.

Followed by Kim Myungkyun's D-grade skill 'Paralysis' and Lee Jungjae's C-grade skill 'Lord's Heart'.

The three skills are still fused and used as his main skills.

"I never thought it would turn out like this back then."

Although he was growth-type, Taehyun was E-grade at the time.

And in less than a year, he grew into an unheard-of AAA-grade and became one of the first SS-grade players.

"A lot has happened."

E-grade. D-grade. C-grade. B-grade. A-grade. AA-grade. AAA-grade.

Looking back, every moment was a crisis.

And there would be many more crises to come.

While Taehyun was lost in his own reminiscence.

He felt someone coming up to the rooftop.

The mana emanating from them was very familiar.

"I knew you'd be here. Kim Taehyun."

"Oh. Long time no see."

Taehyun greeted the man who had just stepped onto the rooftop.

It was Lee Jungjae.

"Long time…? You… How dare you… How dare you say that so casually."

Lee Jungjae said, spitting out the words with a twisted face.

He looked like he wanted to pounce at any moment.

"Why? Did you come to pick a fight?"

Taehyun said nonchalantly.

Gulp.

Lee Jungjae unconsciously swallowed hard.

The rooftop had special meaning for Taehyun, but it was also a place with considerable trauma for Lee Jungjae.

'That damn bastard…'

Unlike himself, who had been stagnant for the past year, Taehyun had grown continuously.

Attacking Taehyun, who had reached an unbelievable level, was practically suicide.

Nevertheless, he came here to overcome his trauma.

The primal fear that Taehyun had planted in his body.

The fear of being devoured.

This graduation ceremony rooftop was to escape from that.

Lee Jungjae forced a smile.

It was a distorted smile.

Once he started smiling, he couldn't help but laugh.

"Heh… Hehehe… Hehehehe…."

"……?"

Taehyun watched him with strange eyes as he started laughing to himself.

"Are you suddenly doing a crazy person act?"

"Hehehe… Crazy, huh… Yeah, maybe I am. It's all because of…"

"Me?"

Gritting his teeth, Lee Jungjae glared at Taehyun as he cut him off.

'Tsk tsk. Pathetic guy.'

Bae Hyuksoo. Kim Myungkyun. And Lee Jungjae.

Taehyun knew that the three people he had devoured hadn't been coming to school.

He didn't feel any sympathy.

'These guys would have found other victims even if it wasn't me.'

An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.

They were just reaping what they sowed.

Before he knew it, mana was flowing uncontrollably from Lee Jungjae's body.

"Kim Taehyun… Don't… Don't look at me like that. You…"

Lee Jungjae said, enunciating each word with a resentful voice.

Taehyun looked at him with pity.

"If you keep talking like that, you're going to get hit, you know?"

"Kugh…"

"Don't talk nonsense, just tell me why you came here and get lost."

"I'll get my revenge. I'll make you pay for all the humiliation I've suffered…"

"I told you not to talk nonsense, and you're still talking nonsense?"

"Cough…!!"

Lee Jungjae grabbed his neck as the killing intent emitted from Taehyun's body.

Taehyun had only released his killing intent for about a second.

But Lee Jungjae had to tremble with a shock that almost drove him insane.

He had shown the difference in their power by not even moving a finger.

The gap between the two was that wide.

"But I won't use my skills because of our old ties. Turn over a new leaf."

Lee Jungjae was already crawling on the ground.

Taehyun looked down at him for a moment and walked towards the rooftop entrance.

It was about time for the reporters to swarm up here.

"Ugh… Ugh…"

Saliva dripped from Lee Jungjae's mouth, who was kneeling.

He couldn't control his trembling body.

Then, a new man came up to the rooftop.

It was Lee Jungsoo.

His A-grade player bodyguard followed him in a line.

"……."

Lee Jungsoo looked down at his son, who was kneeling.

The bodyguards all turned around.

They began to control the rooftop.

"You're showing a disgraceful sight."

"Fath… Father…"

Lee Jungjae raised his head at the unexpected voice.

A new sense of fear arose in his eyes.

"The successor of the great Taesan Group is showing such a figure… Have you not been beaten enough yet?"

Lee Jungsoo took a step towards Lee Jungjae.

"Fath… Father, please…"

Lee Jungjae retreated backward, unable to even stand up.

Step. Step. Step. Step.

Lee Jungjae shook his body violently each time Lee Jungsoo approached.

"I'm sorry, I was wrong, please save me!! Father, please…!!"

Lee Jungjae closed his eyes tightly as he looked at Lee Jungsoo, who was right in front of him.

He could vividly feel the pain that would follow.

However.

Thump.

He felt a different sensation than he expected.

Lee Jungsoo's hand was placed on Lee Jungjae's head.

"……?"

"You've been through a lot. My son."

"Fath… Father…?"

Lee Jungjae looked at Lee Jungsoo with a bewildered expression.

"I have prepared a gift for you."

Lee Jungsoo smiled and took out a potion.

It was a potion mixed with red and black colors.

"Drink it."

"Yes…?"

Even at Lee Jungjae's question.

"You're going to become my son again after drinking this. Come on, hurry."

Lee Jungsoo pushed the potion towards him once again.

"Wh-What is thi…"

Lee Jungjae's words could not be finished.

Slap.

Lee Jungsoo's hand slapped Lee Jungjae's cheek.

Lee Jungjae's body fell helplessly to the ground.

"You little bug. You just don't understand when I talk nicely."

"Fathe…"

"Don't even call me father!!"

Lee Jungsoo loosened the belt he was wearing.

Slap.

"Even after being humiliated like that!!"

Slap.

"Even after being trampled like this!!"

Slap.

"You still have that kind of mindset!!"

Slap. Slap. Slap. Slap.

Lee Jungsoo was a person who possessed the body of an S-grade player.

There was no way Lee Jungjae, whose growth had stopped, could withstand the continued beating.

After a while, Lee Jungjae's body drooped to the floor.

He had fainted.

Lee Jungsoo shoved the potion into Lee Jungjae's mouth.

Glug. Glug. Glug.

Gulp.

The liquid inside the potion was emptied without leaving any behind.

"You're going to become my son again. Jungjae."

Lee Jungsoo smiled as he looked at his son's face, which had already begun to swell.

Gulp.

The bodyguards, who had been constantly turning their backs, swallowed hard one by one.

Several months had passed since Taehyun's graduation ceremony.

It was a time when many things were unlikely to happen in general, but it was a period when an unprecedented number of things happened in the world.

That was because all but one of the unconquered dungeons that existed around the world had been conquered.

It was the result of the American and Shin-Korean conquest teams competing to conquer them.

And that last place.

The unconquered dungeon in Mexico City was now breaking.

Kugugugugugung.

Thud thud thud thud.

The dungeon shook and a gate was created, and a group of people emerged from it.

It was the Shin-Korean conquest team.

Among them were four players representing Shin-Korea.

Park Sungjin. Kwak Siyang. Kwon Kanghyuk. Im Ahyeong.

Their popularity was especially high.

"Everyone, point the cameras at them!!"

"Look over here, please!!"

"Can we get an interview!!"

Broadcasting stations and newspaper reporters dispatched from all over the world shouted.

It was a historic moment that would be remembered as a day symbolizing peace in the future.

And.

The last person to decorate this historic day came out of the gate.

It was Taehyun.

The cameras that had been waiting without filming the others flocked to him.

"It's Kim Taehyun!!!"

"Everyone, turn the cameras over there!!"

"Player Kim Taehyun!! Look over here, please!!"

Taehyun, who didn't usually like media interviews, was different today.

The last unconquered gate on Earth had disappeared.

What that fact meant was clear.

'Abyss Rush. It's been brought forward by seven years compared to my previous life.'

Now, many players will jump in to illuminate the Abyss.

As he thought about that and estimated what would happen in the future.

A woman blocked Taehyun's path.

It was Yoon Miso, whom Taehyun had hired as his personal secretary.

She used her skills on the rushing reporters.

Tting.

[Skill Lion's Roar (A) has been activated.]

"Okay, everyone!! As I said before, we'll only take five questions. Please consider the circumstances of the players who just came out of the dungeon!! Those who do not follow the order will be formally protested later!!!"

The area was quiet in an instant.

"Secretary Yoon is doing a good job."

"What are you talking about. More than that, congratulations on conquering the dungeon, CEO. Shall we take a break before the press conference?"

"No. These people have been waiting for a long time, so let's start right away."

Secretary Yoon used the Lion's Roar again and shouted, and after a while, the reporters' questions began.

"Player Kim Taehyun. The number of unconquered dungeons currently conquered is neck and neck with the United States. What do you think about this?"

"I think it's a good process and result for the development and prosperity of mankind."

It was a textbook question and a textbook answer.

"Player Kim Taehyun. I heard that you have a private relationship with Player Im Ahyeong… Is it true?"

"We're not like that. We're colleagues."

A sigh came out.

This was because there were surprisingly many cases where Taehyun and Im Ahyeong were being pushed.

"Player Kim Taehyun. Are you aware that Chairman Ji Jinhee has introduced a new licensing system?"

"I don't know. I just came back from the dungeon."

"Ah, according to the newly changed system…"

Taehyun shook his head at the woman who was about to explain.

"He is a person who cares more about players and his own people than anyone else. I believe that whatever he does is the right thing to do."

Unconditional trust in Ji Jinhee.

Exclamations erupted from here and there at the sight.

"Player Kim Taehyun. You were selected as an SS-grade license supervisor, can you say something about your impressions?"

"I will do my best as it is an important position."

"A little longer…"

"I will thoroughly select based on skill."

"……."

In an instant, it was the last questioner's turn.

"P-Player Kim Taehyun. Who is the first person you want to meet after leaving the dungeon?"

Sharp glances were driven in from here and there at the question that was lower than expected.

"Well… It's difficult to say directly due to personal privacy."

"Th-Then, at least the gender…"

"Hey. Are you calling that a question?!!"

"If that's the case, hand over the right to ask questions to me!!"

"Ah, it's a man. That's all."

"……."

"……."

"……."

Taehyun moved his position as he looked at the quiet area.

"Th-This concludes the answers!!"

Secretary Yoon Miso, who was embarrassed, followed Taehyun in a hurry.

Episode 170

The Mexico City dungeon, ruled by an SS-rank monster.

After completing the conquest, Taehyun headed to the Player Association.

"Well... I saw it on live broadcast a little while ago... but to think I'd be the first person you'd want to meet."

An old man, confined in his lab.

Bang Chaesu gave Taehyun a dumbfounded smile.

Rumors travel a thousand miles without feet.

Rumors were already circulating that he was in a romantic relationship with a male player due to his earlier remarks, but he didn't seem to care at all.

"You look healthier than the last time I saw you."

"I owe it all to you. Thank you sincerely."

Despite the significant age difference.

Bang Chaesu bowed deeply.

Taehyun nodded in return.

Bang Chaesu had been living a new life since his meeting with Taehyun.

He had accepted his past mistakes and confessed, but Ji Jinee valued his abilities and scouted him.

Legally, he was a criminal.

However, he was currently being treated without discrimination from the association's players.

'With this, Shin Korea's power will be further strengthened.'

"But what brings you here?"

"I have a request."

"Hmm? A man like you asking for a favor?"

"It's something only the elder can do."

Bang Chaesu tilted his head at Taehyun's answer.

"The only thing I can do is skill fusion... Could it be...?"

Taehyun nodded at Bang Chaesu's reaction.

"That's exactly what it is. I'd like to request skill fusion."

"But... you've already fused once, haven't you?"

Skills that were hard to believe one person could possess.

It hadn't even been a year since he fused those skills.

But now he was asking for another fusion?

"There's no rule that says once a skill is fused, it can't be fused again."

Taehyun's confident attitude.

Bang Chaesu looked at him with incomprehension.

Bang Chaesu led Taehyun to the fusion room.

A space created by Association President Ji Jinee for Bang Chaesu.

The fusion room was equipped with various devices to assist with skills, such as magic amplification stones, magic recovery stones, and fatigue recovery stones.

"The environment is better than before."

"Not just the environment. The skill success rate has also increased dramatically. Now, take off your top and sit down."

Inside the fusion room.

Bang Chaesu pointed to a VR access chair-like device.

It was a device specially made by Alchemist at Ji Jinee's direction.

"This device alone will increase your skill proficiency threefold."

"I look forward to it."

Taehyun took off his top and sat in the chair.

Firmly established muscles were revealed.

"Your body is even better than before. I'd believe you if you said it was armor."

Taehyun could defeat S-rank monsters with his bare hands.

Bang Chaesu's words were no joke.

Ziiing.

Pshoo.

The chair automatically rotated, and the surrounding magic stones began to glow one by one.

It felt like being placed on a surgical table.

"I'll start now. Don't reject my skill."

"Understood."

Taehyun relaxed his entire body and consciously limited the flow of magic.

Tring.

[Skill use detected. Affected by Fragment of the World (S).]

Unfamiliar magic began to scan his body.

"Amazing..."

Bang Chaesu muttered for a moment.

The status window forcibly appeared.

It was due to the skill 'Fragment of the World'.

Name: Kim Taehyun

Age: 20

Rank: AAA

Strength: 245 Stamina: 246 Speed: 250 Magic: 363 Charm: 205

Fatigue: 50%

Remaining Magic: 250/363

[Skills]

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

Shadow Skin (AAA) - Hides the body along with physical enhancement. Requires Demonic Power: 10

Lord's World (AAA) - Forms a special field enhanced with magic. Requires Demonic Power: 30

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

Chains of Restraint (AAA) - Designates and restrains the opponent. Skill tracking and cancellation are possible. Requires Demonic Power: 20

Queen's Man (AAA) - Summons the Succubus Queen Rosaria. Requires Demonic Power: 300

Complete Hypnosis (AAA) - Designates and hypnotizes the opponent. Requires Demonic Power: 100

Blood Frenzy (AAA) - Activates physical abilities. Requires Demonic Power: 200

Demon's Eye (AAA) - Red eyes are activated. Requires Demonic Power: 10

He had graduated from school and dealt with four SS-rank monsters.

His stats had increased a lot as he devoured them.

'I should move on to the Abyss soon.'

There was nothing more to gain on Earth.

As he was thinking that, Bang Chaesu groaned.

"Haa..."

It was because maintaining the skill was beyond his strength.

Although he wasn't resisting his skill.

Taehyun had grown incomparably compared to before.

Just maintaining the skill was draining a significant amount of stamina.

'I should buy him some ginseng later.'

Taehyun thought as he looked at the skills that would soon disappear.

Since when?

He began to understand the principles of skills.

Instead of using magic through registered skills.

He was able to use skills by controlling magic.

'Magic control was the answer after all.'

It was similar to how Ricky Hallis used 'Energy Compose' and 'Energy Drain' to create new techniques.

A simple method, but only those with a natural talent for magic control could attempt it.

That's why he wasn't devouring other skills even though his vessel had increased.

Considering Taehyun's fighting style.

It was better to fuse the skills he was already using.

'Even if they disappear, it doesn't mean I can't use them individually.'

Bang Chaesu, who had scanned Taehyun's status window for a moment, took a deep breath.

"How many skills do you see this time?"

"Four."

"I see."

It was as expected.

'Devour', 'Queen's Man', 'Complete Hypnosis', 'Blood Frenzy', 'Demon's Eye'.

Skills whose origins were not human.

Especially the skills obtained from the Great Dukes seemed invisible.

Of course, that alone was enough to be surprised.

'Is this kind of status window even possible?'

The physical abilities were unbelievable.

Bang Chaesu shook his head and focused on the skills again.

"Then... I'll start."

Giiiing.

A wave of magic arose from Bang Chaesu's body.

Even the magic amplification stones in the fusion room activated, and an unprecedented amount of magic overflowed.

A message appeared before Taehyun's eyes.

[Would you like to fuse the skills Shadow Skin (AAA), Lord's World (AAA), Lord's Aura (AAA), and Chains of Restraint (AAA)? Fusion will begin upon skill activation.]

"Huh."

Bang Chaesu gasped without realizing it.

The same message appeared in his eyes as it did in Taehyun's.

The skills that had already been fused once.

Were about to be fused again as Taehyun had said.

Kwaaaa.

Taehyun didn't hesitate and raised his magic power.

He agreed to the message by activating the skills.

Shadow Skin. Lord's Aura. Lord's World. Chains of Restraint.

As the four skills were activated, the fusion room shook violently.

Both of their bodies were enveloped in crimson magic.

Shiver shiver shiver.

Cold sweat flowed from Bang Chaesu's entire body.

'Even with the magic amplification stone, it's not enough?'

Nearly 100 magic power was rapidly being drained.

He hurriedly drank the magic potion that was prepared.

Just maintaining the skills was making him feel dizzy.

The skill fusion lasted for 30 minutes.

Taehyun felt the magic churning inside his body.

Only four skills were being fused, but the original forms they possessed came to mind.

There was a student, a player, a demon, and a monster.

As Taehyun grew, so did many skills.

It was as if the skills had their own will.

[That's not your power.]

A voice was heard from somewhere.

'Doppelganger?'

No.

That guy isn't here right now.

Then who is it?

While Taehyun was thinking that.

A man approached from the distance.

Red hair and red eyes.

Magic like flames was rising from his body.

'King.'

Taehyun opened his mouth, but no sound came out.

He opened his mouth.

[In the end, everything will be devoured.]

It was the language of the monsters.

'What are you talking about? No, more importantly, who are you?'

Again, no voice came out.

'King' looked at Taehyun with indifferent eyes.

[There isn't much time left.]

'Speak so I can understand.'

[Magic may consume the body, but.]

Hwaaaa.

Red magic rose from his body.

The red magic turned blue, then white, and gradually turned black.

[The human body has its limits.]

'Hey.'

[I'll be waiting in the Abyss. Kim Taehyun.]

Soon, the same magic as Taehyun's rose from the King's body.

Crack.

The magic of Devour.

Thump.

Swallowed the defenseless Taehyun.

"Uwaaa!!!"

Taehyun opened his eyes with a scream.

Bang Chaesu was passed out right next to him.

And.

Tring.

[A great power awakens.]

[A great power awakens.]

[A great power awakens.]

[Strength increases by 10.]

[Stamina increases by 10.]

[Speed increases by 10.]

[Magic increases by 20.]

[Rank is being readjusted.]

[Status window is being modified.]

[Skill Apocalypse (S) has been registered.]

[Skill Dragon's Wrath (S) has been registered.]

[Skill Beast Transformation (S) has been registered.]

[Summon Skill Hazard (S) has been registered.]

[Summon Skill Igmun (S) has been registered.]

[Summon Skill Orgal (S) has been registered.]

[Summon Skill Beelzebub (S) has been registered.]

[Summon Skill Jormungandr (S) has been registered.]

[Skill Demon's Eye (S) is transformed into Superior Species' Eye (S).]

[Skill Queen's Man (S) is transformed into Summon Skill Rosaria (S).]

Taehyun was unable to hide his confusion at the sudden messages.

'What?'

He had only fused skills.

But his stats were rising and new skills were springing up like mushrooms after the rain.

Taehyun opened the status window with a trembling heart.

Name: Kim Taehyun

Age: 20

Rank: S

Strength: 255 Stamina: 256 Speed: 260 Magic: 383 Charm: 205

Fatigue: 86%

Remaining Magic: 20/383

[Unique Skills]

Devour (S) - Can devour the desired target. Requires Demonic Power: 100

[General Skills]

Complete Hypnosis (S) - Designates and hypnotizes the opponent. Requires Demonic Power: 100

Blood Frenzy (S) - Activates physical abilities. Requires Demonic Power: 200

Superior Species' Eye (S) - Sees through the opponent. Requires Demonic Power: 10

Apocalypse (S) - Forms an infinite field. Requires Demonic Power: 200

Dragon's Wrath (S) - Emits an aura enhanced with magic. Requires Demonic Power: 100

Beast Transformation (S) - Mimics the body. Requires Demonic Power: 200

[Summon Skills]

Rosaria (S) - Summons the Succubus Queen Rosaria. Requires Demonic Power: 300

Hazard (S) - Summons the Dragon Lord Hazard. Requires Demonic Power: 11000

Igmun (S) - Summons the Vampire Lord Igmun. Requires Demonic Power: 7700

Orgal (S) - Summons the Beast King Orgal. Requires Demonic Power: 8000

Beelzebub (S) - Summons the Demon King Beelzebub. Requires Demonic Power: 10000

Jormungandr (S) - Summons the Sea Serpent King Jormungandr. Requires Demonic Power: 9000

"This is...!"

Taehyun muttered with a dazed expression.

But no one saw that sight.

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