RKP 251-260

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Episode 251

New Korea Player Association. Association President's Office.

Five people were sitting around the room.

Ji Jinhee, Go Taewook, Park Seongjin, Kwon Kanghyuk, and Kwak Siyang.

A considerable amount of time had passed since Ji Jinhee's return to active duty.

Since then, Ji Jinhee had maintained an even closer cooperative system with the four major guilds.

The current information sharing was the same.

"Guild Leader Seo Sangik and Deputy Guild Leader Jeong Hansu, I will meet with them separately."

"You're all going through a lot."

Ji Jinhee nodded in response to Go Taewook's words.

Seo Sangik was busy creating a vaccine for the Gray Plague, and Jeong Hansu seemed overwhelmed managing the guild in place of Yoo Ahyeong.

Among the four major guilds, only Kwon Kanghyuk and Kwak Siyang, the guild leaders of Onsemiro and Magicians, respectively, could barely spare the time.

"Ah, I'm a busy man too. Why do you keep summoning me here?"

Kwon Kanghyuk grumbled in his characteristic cocky manner.

Ji Jinhee chuckled at his appearance.

"Don't lie. You were the first to come, eager to meet Taehyun."

"......"

Kwon Kanghyuk was taken aback by Ji Jinhee's accurate reading of his mind.

Taehyun had always been elusive, even amidst the world's turmoil.

He was shocked to hear that he had entered the deepest part of the Abyss alone this time as well.

And as soon as Taehyun returned from the Abyss, he trampled on Yoo Ahyeong and the Saintess.

And now, he was rumored to be spending most of his time at the association, tormenting Im Ahyeong.

No, that was also a thing of the past.

After handing Im Ahyeong over to the intensive care unit, he had disappeared again without a trace.

'Damn... I want to be tormented too.'

As Ji Jinhee said, the summons meeting was a good excuse for Kwon Kanghyuk, who was burning with desire.

But his pride wouldn't allow him to admit it easily.

"Hmph!! More than that, there's a strange rumor going around the association, is it true?!!"

Kwon Kanghyuk dragged Taehyun into the conversation in an attempt to change the subject.

A rumor that started in the Player Association and reached the ears of the general public recently.

Kim Taehyun and Yoo Ahyeong.

Kim Taehyun and Im Ahyeong.

Kim Taehyun and the Saintess.

He was asking about that strange relationship.

There was no way Ji Jinhee wouldn't know about the rumor.

"Hmm... I've heard about it too."

"So, is it true that our brother really... broke those three people?"

Kwon Kanghyuk couldn't bring himself to finish the sentence.

He knew the skills of Yoo Ahyeong and the Saintess very well, let alone Im Ahyeong.

"That's right. I don't know about the Saintess, but Guild Leader Yoo Ahyeong and Player Im Ahyeong are both receiving treatment in the intensive care unit. Seriously injured... you could say."

Gulp.

The sound of someone swallowing hard could be heard at Ji Jinhee's words.

It was impossible to understand the true intention of the action.

It was Kwak Siyang who broke the atmosphere.

"Surely, Player Kim Taehyun didn't do that without any thought."

"That's right. He's always a few steps ahead."

Park Seongjin said indifferently.

He was one of the few who genuinely recognized Taehyun's insight.

"He wouldn't do anything that would harm New Korea either."

Go Taewook felt the same way.

"Okay. It's not too late to hear about it directly from Taehyun later."

Ji Jinhee was no different.

'He must have something in mind.'

'He'll tell me later.'

That's how they thought, and the atmosphere naturally shifted.

'Damn, everyone's pretending.'

Ji Jinhee grumbled and stirred in his seat.

The people here, except for the non-combat player Go Taewook, had clearly crossed the barrier in the process of capturing Hydra and Fenrir.

Top-tier S-rank players.

A realm called national power and referred to as the strongest.

An area that even Ji Jinhee, who was called the strongest player in New Korea, had not reached, let alone Park Seongjin and Kwak Siyang, who had grown up with him since their rookie days.

The four of them simultaneously conquered that realm just by getting involved with Taehyun.

A desire for growth.

A desire for learning.

In fact, all four of them felt a similar emotion, wanting to mingle with Taehyun.

'Everyone here is eager to get their hands on Taehyun.'

Only the observer, Go Taewook, could see the current fervor rationally.

'If Taehyun is not careful, he might be held captive all day long.'

Go Taewook thought as he looked at Park Seongjin, who was shining his eyes, and Kwon Kanghyuk, who was even exhaling sharply.

Of course, they were all unaware that Taehyun was avoiding them because he had predicted this situation.

'Well, I can't keep him tied up in the association forever.'

Taehyun had put up a barrier and forbade access even when sparring with Im Ahyeong.

Recently, he came to him personally because of the Saintess's incident, and now that Yoo Ahyeong and Im Ahyeong were both receiving treatment in the intensive care unit, he had disappeared again.

"Ahem."

It was Ji Jinhee who broke the second silence.

"I'm sorry for continuing to summon you busy people... but please understand that this is an important time."

Important time.

Everyone knew what that meant.

Following Shadow, they allowed Min Jihong and Kasim Zolt to invade the association.

A country that cannot handle the demons.

How many associations in the world could properly prevent the invasion of two SS-rank demons, but for whatever reason, the credibility of New Korean players had been significantly damaged.

"It absolutely cannot happen a third time."

Ji Jinhee said in a firm tone.

"I heard that New Korea's top guilds are installing gate zones that can provide immediate support."

Kwak Siyang mentioned the association's new defense system.

"That alone is not enough. Kasim Zolt... it would be difficult to deal with him even if all five of us here ganged up on him."

That was Ji Jinhee's impression after facing him directly.

"So, you're saying we should meet our brother and mingle with him? I heard that Yoo Ahyeong reawakened after mingling with Kasim Zolt."

Whether it's growth-type or not.

In order to break through the wall, sufficient experience is needed in addition to effort.

That experience is not quantitative but qualitative.

In other words, a battle with a strong opponent.

And in New Korea, Taehyun was the only strong person who could teach them.

If they, who had similar power, fought and exchanged blows as training...

'It could allow the demons to reinvade.'

"There is a limit to relying on Taehyun."

"Then what are you going to do?"

Kwon Kanghyuk asked Go Taewook bluntly, who was thinking similarly.

"We are planning a defense system that can be used even when Taehyun is not around."

"Has the association president finally made a decision?"

Park Seongjin asked as if he had an idea, as he had been quiet all along.

Go Taewook nodded.

"We have decided to receive the Saintess's help. Unlike paying considerable compensation and rewards as we do now, we can use her whenever our association wants."

That was nonsense.

The Saintess's 'Super-Speed Regeneration' was a blessed ability that no one else possessed.

To receive help from such a person without compensation, and to be able to use her whenever the association wants?

"Japan... I thought the association president would oppose it until the end?"

"Hmph. It must mean that it's no longer time to be stubborn."

"Hmm..."

Ji Jinhee remained silent at Kwak Siyang and Kwon Kanghyuk's reactions.

This was because the conditions Go Taewook had mentioned were conveyed by Taehyun, not himself.

"That's great. Her skill 'Super-Speed Regeneration' will make it worthwhile. What is the price? We will have to pay a considerable price to receive support from her power."

Kwak Siyang asked without much thought.

"Depending on the timing, we will support ten B-rank players, five A-rank players, and one S-rank player. And if necessary, we will also support Player Kim Taehyun."

"It's an obvious deal."

"Hmph. It's an obvious trick."

"Well, it's not a bad deal."

Everyone had similar reactions.

This was because they also knew.

The support of B-rank, A-rank, and S-rank players depending on the timing.

That was just an excuse to show off.

The real deal was the world's number one player ranking.

It was to wear the hat of having Kim Taehyun behind them.

"Player Taehyun has already agreed to the contents."

Go Taewook recalled Taehyun's appearance, who had notified him as if he was informing him a few days ago.

He returned from the deepest part of the Abyss and provided core support for the vaccine production, and as if that wasn't enough, he went to Japan and made a secret pact with the Saintess.

It was as if he was predicting how things would turn out in the future, and it was an action that even a veteran politician would take.

"Of course, when I meet Taehyun, I'm going to talk about training S-rank players."

"That's right!!"

Kwon Kanghyuk shouted without realizing it.

This was probably the first time in nearly 10 years that he had agreed with Ji Jinhee's words so much.

"Alchemy says there is progress in vaccine development. It seems like they will be able to achieve meaningful results in about a month."

"Is the counterattack finally starting?"

Park Seongjin muttered as he stroked the Spiral Seven Spears.

He had accumulated quite a lot while watching the demons run rampant due to the Gray Plague.

"Until the vaccine is developed, the New Korea Player Association and Alchemy buildings should be protected as the most important facilities."

It was when Ji Jinhee was giving detailed instructions after that.

Kugugugung.

Suddenly, the building began to shake.

"This power is..."

"......!!"

"SS-rank...?"

"......"

"Damn it!!"

With various reactions, the five players jumped up from their seats.

They instinctively thought of Harsultan's terror.

There was no such shaking even when Taehyun was tormenting Im Ahyeong in the training room a while ago.

'It must be Kasim Zolt's re-attack.'

That's what they were thinking.

Kugugugung!!

An even greater wave shook the building.

The secretary, who happened to be waiting outside, came in.

"What's going on?!!"

Ji Jinhee asked loudly.

"That... Player Kim Taehyun is emitting mana waves during skill fusion."

The secretary replied, unable to hide his embarrassment.

"What?"

"Skill fusion...?"

"Then..."

"Does that mean it's not mana release...?"

At the secretary's words.

New Korea's top players were lost for words.

"Ugh..."

It was Bang Chaesu, who had briefly lost consciousness.

He regained consciousness with the potion entering his mouth.

"You've worked hard."

Taehyun said as he alternately poured fatigue recovery potions and healing potions.

"Fusion...?"

Bang Chaesu asked about skill fusion.

There were four fused skills.

Even though it was less than before, it took a whopping twenty hours.

That meant that each skill had excellent abilities, and the newly created skill was extraordinary.

"Can you check it?"

Bang Chaesu asked in a trembling voice.

"I will."

Taehyun opened the status window.

Name: Kim Taehyun

Age: 20

Rank: SS

Strength: 358 Stamina: 356 Speed: 350 Magic Power: 519 Charm: 275

Fatigue: 72%

Remaining Magic Power: 50/519

[Unique Skill]

Devour (SS) - Can devour the desired target. Required Magic Power: 120

[General Skill]

Apocalypse (SS) - Forms an infinite field. Required Magic Power: 200

Memorize (SS) - Activates recording magic. Required Magic Power: 300

Apostle of the Gate (SS) - Forms a gate made of magic power. Required Magic Power: 70

Heart of the Superior (SS) - Forms a magic stone in the body. Required Magic Power: 50

Eye of the Superior (SS) - Sees through the opponent. Required Magic Power: 10

Ataraxia (SS) - Dominates the opponent's mind. Required Magic Power: 90

Blood Frenzy (SS) - Activates physical abilities. Required Magic Power: 100

Dragon's Fury (SS) - Emits magic-enhanced aura. Required Magic Power: 100

Beastification (SS) - Mimics the body. Required Magic Power: 170

Devil's Saliva (SS) - Imbues magic power with poison. Required Magic Power: 120

'Energy Compose' and 'Energy Drain' were fused to become 'Heart of the Superior'.

'Apostle of Darkness' and 'Portal' were fused to become 'Apostle of the Gate'.

In order to withstand the weight of the two skills, the stats increased slightly, and the summoning skill was the same as before.

'Heart of the Superior and Apostle of the Gate.'

The names themselves were unusual.

"You have a face that says you want to use the skill right away."

"Oh. Was I caught?"

"Isn't it obvious? Go ahead. The people from the association will be gathering soon."

The mana wave felt when Taehyun's skill fusion was completed was definitely unusual.

To the top-tier players, it would have felt like an SS+ rank monster was releasing magic power.

Taehyun sensed that people were gathering.

"I'm sorry for bothering you."

"Don't mention it."

Taehyun bowed and disappeared as he was.

He used the skill 'Stealth'.

Not long after Taehyun left.

Bang.

The door to the lab opened roughly.

"Brother!!"

The huge Kwon Kanghyuk shouted and pushed his body in.

Behind him, the faces of Ji Jinhee, Park Seongjin, Kwak Siyang, and Go Taewook could be seen.

"Oh my, I didn't expect so many guests..."

"What happened?"

Go Taewook asked as he looked around the lab.

But.

"Would you like some tea?"

That was all Bang Chaesu could say.

Chapter 252

Kwon Gang-hyeok belatedly shouted,

"Old man!! Where did my brother go?!"

"Player Kim Tae-hyun has already returned."

"What?!"

Kwon Gang-hyeok's face contorted at Bang Chae-soo's nonchalant answer.

"Calm down, Guild Master Kwon Gang-hyeok."

"How can I calm down right now?!"

Kwon Gang-hyeok snapped at Park Seong-jin's words.

He had been eager to learn a thing or two from Tae-hyun.

'What am I supposed to do with this heated body now?!'

Therefore, it was even harder for him to accept the fact that Tae-hyun wasn't here.

Belatedly, Ji Jin-hee stepped forward.

"Professor Bang, did Tae-hyun do a skill fusion?"

"Yes, Association President."

Professor.

Not only Im A-young, but Ji Jin-hee also treated him with respect.

Contrary to his position, Bang Chae-soo had no choice but to respond politely.

They were of similar age, but Ji Jin-hee was the head of the association and the man who had brought him to this position.

It was only natural to be courteous.

"Hmm… Why didn't you tell me?"

Ji Jin-hee asked with mixed feelings.

Just as Bang Chae-soo thought highly of him, Ji Jin-hee also thought highly of him.

The skill fusion matter should have been reported to the association president in advance.

Just as Im A-young had done before.

However.

"I apologize. Player Kim Tae-hyun did not want it."

Bang Chae-soo said calmly, without a hint of guilt.

Did not want it.

Bang Chae-soo was confidently defying the association's laws and morals with just that.

And.

"I see. I understand."

That was all.

Ji Jin-hee did not pursue the matter further.

"Did Tae-hyun's fusion go well?"

"Didn't you feel it? That immense power."

Bang Chae-soo replied with a strange expression.

The mana wave a moment ago was the most powerful force he had ever felt.

It wouldn't be much different for the players in front of him either.

"Considering that, your expression doesn't look good, Professor. Is something wrong?"

Go Tae-wook asked, observing Bang Chae-soo's complexion.

"No. Player Kim Tae-hyun will have become even stronger."

"……?"

Everyone's faces were puzzled at the ambiguous answer.

If he became stronger, he became stronger, but what does it mean that he will have become stronger?

Moreover, if the subject was Tae-hyun, it would be a natural course of events for him to become stronger through skill fusion.

Despite the gazes of suspicion, Bang Chae-soo could only remain silent.

Tae-hyun's status window.

The numerous skill lists that he had not confirmed before in that place.

The names of the ominous entities that were proudly sitting there.

Even though they were people who cherished Tae-hyun, he was being praised as a hero of Shinhan.

Even the slightest suspicion could be a flaw.

'It's better not to say it.'

Tae-hyun did look at him with strange eyes, but he didn't force him.

He could open his mouth at any time if he wanted to.

Nevertheless, Bang Chae-soo intended to shoulder this fact alone.

Because he didn't want to cause even the slightest harm to his benefactor.

"Hmm…"

Bang Chae-soo let out a groan.

"Hmm…"

Ji Jin-hee understood in his heart and showed a similar reaction.

"……."

"……."

"……."

The remaining three people also had the same reaction.

"What the hell? What's wrong with you guys?"

Only the insensitive Kwon Gang-hyeok tilted his head with a puzzled expression.

After leaving the association, Tae-hyun visited a huge traditional Korean house complex.

A huge sign was hung up that could be seen from afar.

Doje Yanghaeng (Apprentice Foreign Trade Company).

'A place that is considered the best in Shinhan for status window and equipment tuning. I'm finally finding this place.'

There are status window and equipment tuning experts within the Player Association.

Nevertheless, there were complex reasons for seeking out a private company.

Tae-hyun's power was better off not being known, and as he grew, that power resembled that of demons.

'It'll be a hassle if it gets into the ears of the association people for no reason.'

The fact that Tae-hyun was a Great Duke contractor.

And it was better not to let it be known yet that he had the power of Devour.

It wouldn't be a problem because they were Tae-hyun's people, but Tae-hyun had many uncertainties for that.

The more people who knew, the more variables there would be.

It was better to watch the incident from behind and move as he did now.

'Of course, I also need people to know.'

Tae-hyun thought as he looked at the traditional Korean houses lined up on a grand scale.

Bang Chae-soo, who he had to keep asking for skill fusion, was also one of them.

"Welcome."

Like the Blackhead Training Center, it is one of the top facilities in Shinhan.

As soon as he entered the entrance, a young man in a Hanbok appeared.

The figure looked like the latter-day scholar of Doje Yanghaeng.

"Is Master Artisan here?"

Master Artisan (名人).

That was a glorious title given to status window enhancement artisans, only ten in the world.

It was the Korean name for the license held by only one person in Shinhan.

Kim Jong-ho, the best artisan in Shinhan.

The artisans affiliated with the association, and even the best artisan, were all Kim Jong-ho's disciples. He was a man called a god in this industry.

"Did you make a separate appointment with my master?"

"Yes. I'm Kim Hyun-tae from the Hanbit Guild."

Tae-hyun lightly raised the sunglasses he was wearing and answered.

His identity as Kim Hyun-tae, the secretary general of the Hanbit Guild and an A-rank player, was useful in times like this.

To prevent Kim Jong-ho from becoming troubled, he had made a separate appointment in advance through his secretary.

Of course, Kim Jong-ho didn't know that Kim Hyun-tae was Kim Tae-hyun either.

The man's face brightened at the name of the guild.

The Hanbit Guild, which has been growing rapidly recently, is known to everyone in Shinhan.

He had never heard of the name Kim Hyun-tae before, but he thought it wouldn't be bad to know him because he was the secretary general of that place.

"Ah, nice to meet you for the first time. I'm working as the 3rd generation disciple of Master Kim Jong-ho…"

Tae-hyun pretended to listen to the man's introduction and looked around.

'I heard that it's Shinhan's best workshop (工房), and it wasn't just an empty compliment.'

Clang. Clang. Clang. Clang.

The artisans working in the actual workshop were diligently hammering the metal.

Kim Jong-ho, the founder of Doje Yanghaeng, is famous for his great skill in handling items as well as status windows.

'A man who built a workshop on this scale. I'm curious.'

It was a common story.

In the past, Shinhan's environment was poor.

There were no outstanding players, and equipment was also lacking.

In such a time, Kim Jong-ho was like a rain after a drought.

The first status window enhancement apprentice system.

He brought in the Western system and combined it with Korean tradition.

The current ridiculous scale is the result of his decades of hard work.

"Player Kim Hyun-tae. My master is very sensitive about status window enhancements these days. Please don't mind even if he is rude."

"I will."

The man led Tae-hyun inside while exchanging plausible words.

An elderly man was drinking tea alone in the inner courtyard.

It was Kim Jong-ho.

"Master. This is Player Kim Hyun-tae from the Hanbit Guild."

Kim Jong-ho's gaze lingered on Tae-hyun for a moment.

"I'll brew the tea myself, so step back. Please have a seat over here, guest."

After saying that, Kim Jong-ho got up from his seat and walked into his personal workshop.

"……."

The disciple who watched the scene blinked his eyes.

Most artisans are like that, but Kim Jong-ho is a more stubborn person than anyone he has ever experienced.

Sometimes he was nasty, sometimes he was violent.

A weak-hearted female player came with a lot of money and ran out crying.

But such a master.

He would personally serve tea to someone who seemed to be meeting him for the first time and bring him into the workshop?

That meant Kim Hyun-tae was a bigger figure than he thought.

"He's a kind person."

Tae-hyun said that and followed Kim Jong-ho.

'How can someone who is indifferent even when Player Park Seong-jin or Guild Master Kwon Gang-hyeok comes...'

He compared Kim Hyun-tae's value to Park Seong-jin and Kwon Gang-hyeok for a moment.

He returned to his original place with an unsolved question.

The conversation seemed to be getting long.

"A celebrity has come."

Kim Jong-ho said casually while pouring tea.

"Did you recognize me?"

"What is that unsuited sunglasses for?"

"With just this, I can pass through most places."

"Hmm. It seems that people don't have an eye for people. Or they just wear their eyes as decoration."

It was a straightforward way of speaking.

Kim Jong-ho said that and drank the tea he had poured.

Tae-hyun smiled at the sight.

'I came to the right place.'

The sunglasses he was wearing were definitely not ordinary accessories.

Artifact.

An accumulation of state-of-the-art technology equipped with facial recognition prevention function, made by direct request from Alchemist.

Just wearing it had the effect of preventing most people from recognizing Kim Tae-hyun.

Kim Jong-ho pierced through it at once without even using skills.

Tae-hyun put the sunglasses in his pocket.

It would not be polite to wear an artifact in front of someone who had already identified him.

"It's the first time we've met like this."

"That's right. I've often heard about you from President Ji Jin-hee."

"Hoo. What did that man say?"

"A hero who protected Shinhan together in the past. He rejected the offer to join the association several times, didn't he?"

At Tae-hyun's words, Kim Jong-ho puckered his wrinkled mouth with a smirk.

"I don't fit in with the political world."

Slurp.

Kim Jong-ho emptied his glass cleanly and poured tea again.

"Okay. What brings a busy man like you here? Surely a player of your caliber wouldn't come here to enhance his status window."

The status window is like a huge vessel that contains the Awakener's magic power.

Kim Jong-ho has been touching other people's status windows for a long time.

Just facing Tae-hyun, he was exuding a more magnificent aura than anyone he had ever met.

'The level is different.'

He thought so and said that, but.

"Status window. That is the right purpose."

"Hmm? Why would a man like you… No, more than that, doesn't the association have a talented disciple?"

The artisan that Kim Jong-ho was talking about was his first disciple and a person who was likely to become the next Artisan.

Certainly, he was also one of the best in the world.

"There are few places as secure as Doje Yanghaeng. There are people everywhere trying to dig up my information."

"Indeed… Fame comes at a price."

Kim Jong-ho immediately understood the situation.

There are not a few people like Tae-hyun who want to enhance their skills in secret.

In particular, there are more than one or two Chinese players who come with a wad of money.

Most of those people didn't like Kim Jong-ho and went back as if they were being chased away.

"Can I look at your body first?"

"Please do."

Tae-hyun readily entrusted his body.

The aftereffects of the skill fusion a moment ago had already been taken care of.

Kim Jong-ho grabbed Tae-hyun's hand and infused it with magic power.

This was to find the pulse and read the skills and stats engraved in the body.

Suddenly.

"Gasp…!!"

Kim Jong-ho, who was infusing magic power, gasped and opened his eyes wide.

"W-what is this…"

Kim Tae-hyun is the No. 1 player in the world rankings.

He certainly thought that he had great power, but.

'This is not just great.'

A huge being that humans should not possess.

He felt the aura of such huge beings, not just one, but several.

Demon.

No, to possess such magic power, even the body of an SS-rank demon would not be enough.

Not to mention the human body.

'But still… Maintaining the shape of a human?'

Kim Jong-ho's mouth opened slightly at the unbelievable fact.

"Are you surprised?"

Tae-hyun asked, looking at his arm.

Because he knew that Kim Jong-ho had felt the power of the Great Duke dwelling in his body.

"An explanation… seems to be needed."

"I was thinking of doing that anyway. I also need the help of Master Artisan."

To Kim Jong-ho, who still couldn't calm his surprised heart.

Tae-hyun's explanation continued.

"Heo… A demon that surpasses the SSS-rank demon… Could they be the ones they call Great Dukes?"

Tae-hyun did not deny it.

Master Artisan Kim Jong-ho.

Because he knew that he was a reliable person from the image he showed in his previous life.

"A while ago. Have you ever seen a message called the Race War?"

It had been a long time since it was called a while ago.

However, since Kim Jong-ho's job was to handle status windows, it was an event that he should remember.

"Could it be…!!"

"Yes. They will be coming here soon."

Tae-hyun spoke his hypothesis.

It wasn't certain.

But it wasn't a story without possibilities either.

"This… is a mess."

Kim Jong-ho said that sincerely.

If it was true, it was not a problem of the nation and the people.

'Isn't it a problem of human survival?'

It was information he had never heard from Ji Jin-hee.

"Does President Ji Jin-hee know the truth?"

"I haven't told you yet. There is a high possibility that information will leak from the association."

"I see…"

It was a great judgment.

As the association has grown in size, the ears that hear and the eyes that watch are not few.

On the other hand, Doje Yanghaeng is a huge scale, but it is a structure that he can manage all of it.

Because of his eccentric personality, there are not many people who can approach him, so it is perfect for Tae-hyun.

"Will you help me?"

It didn't take long for Kim Jong-ho to make up his mind.

"I will mobilize all my abilities to support you. What kind of enhancement do you want?"

"It's not an enhancement. First of all, I want to separate the powers dwelling in my body."

"Separation… That won't be easy either…"

Kim Jong-ho made a similar expression to Bang Chae-soo a moment ago.

It was the face of an artisan who was prepared for exhaustion.

Episode 253

The Reason Kim Jong-ho is Called a Master Craftsman

It's because he started as a B-rank Awakened and possesses the magic sensitivity to handle even S-rank skills.

S-rank Skill: 'Artisan's Touch.'

While the fact that it consumed less demonic energy than other S-rank skills played a significant role, he obsessively delved into this one skill to the point of deserving the title of Artisan.

As a result...

Surprisingly, each time his skill proficiency increased, a re-awakening occurred.

His Awakening rank went from B to A, and from A to S.

He was already praised as a master craftsman when he was at A-rank.

Now that his Awakening rank is S, his state window management skill is among the best in the world.

This is why, even though he hasn't acquired a Player License, he is one of the specially managed individuals under the association's supervision, alongside Bang Chae-soo.

'He's nervous.'

I could feel Kim Jong-ho's muscles and magic stiffening.

'He's definitely different from Grandpa.'

Bang Chae-soo's role was to mix the power residing in Tae-hyun's body to make it stronger.

While that also required skill proficiency and sensitivity, separating and rearranging was a more advanced task.

Even the association's artisans might be able to do it, but I could confidently say that no one had a higher chance of success than Kim Jong-ho.

"Then, let's begin."

Magic erupted from Kim Jong-ho's body.

In proportion to that, Tae-hyun relaxed his entire body.

It would be troublesome if the magic residing within him pushed back against Kim Jong-ho's skill.

Ting.

[Skill usage detected. You are under the effect of Artisan's Touch (S).]

Tae-hyun once again entered a meditative state.

Ting.

[The 'Enormous Magic (?)' pushes back against 'Artisan's Touch (S).']

[The skill Artisan's Touch (S) wavers.]

"Huuup...!!"

Kim Jong-ho took a deep breath and focused his mind.

[The skill Artisan's Touch (S) has been strengthened. Magic consumption is accelerated.]

How much time had passed?

Kim Jong-ho, who was manipulating Tae-hyun's state window, felt as if he was walking on thin ice every moment.

If he delved in too deeply, Tae-hyun's magic would consume his mind, and if his concentration wavered even slightly, the skill would be canceled.

But if he only delved in shallowly, he wouldn't be able to touch a single hair on Tae-hyun's state window.

'This composition is absurd.'

As he scanned Tae-hyun's state window, goosebumps involuntarily rose on his skin.

Unique skills, general skills, and summon skills.

It was a state window that could only be seen because Tae-hyun had opened everything up.

He was momentarily shocked by the unbelievable number of skills.

'I understand now why he only asked for separation.'

At first, he thought that the young man, who had risen to the top of the world rankings at such a young age, was disregarding his abilities.

But that wasn't the case.

Tae-hyun's state window was so solid and chaotic that even the master craftsman like him could only manage to separate it.

In particular, the presence of those classified as summon skills was tremendous.

If someone who wasn't a master touched them, they would fall into a permanent coma due to magic backlash.

'He's managed to endure this state window until now.'

Players who fight against demons and monsters are more sensitive to their state windows than anyone else.

Being able to understand their own condition during battle can save their lives multiple times.

In that respect, Tae-hyun's state window, where everything was connected, was inefficient.

But rashly tampering with it could have cracked the container of the state window.

To withstand the weight of the state window...

'He must have waited and waited.'

And now, judging that it was the right time...

'He must have come to me.'

He could see Tae-hyun sitting in a lotus position with his eyes closed.

He was more thoughtful than his age would suggest.

It seemed that he hadn't only risen to the top with talent, as the rumors said.

'Separation... Satisfying himself with just that would be a disgrace to the name of master craftsman.'

Kim Jong-ho resolved.

He wanted to help this absurd Player, even if only a little.

He wanted to lighten the burden that he was carrying on his shoulders, even a little.

Gnash.

He clenched his teeth tightly.

Ting.

[The skill Artisan's Touch (S) has been strengthened. Magic consumption is accelerated. Skill enhancement has reached its limit.]

[The proficiency of the skill Artisan's Touch (S) increases.]

It seemed that he would be bedridden for several days after this operation was over.

[The upgrade of the state window has been successful.]

"......!!"

Tae-hyun, who had been meditating in a lotus position, twitched his eyes.

The magic that had been arranged and rearranged within his body had finally taken complete form.

"It's... done."

Kim Jong-ho said in a voice weakened afterward.

"Thank you for your hard work."

Tae-hyun opened his eyes and looked at Kim Jong-ho.

His face was covered with age spots as if he had aged ten years.

Nevertheless, his eyes felt with a clarity that was incomparable to before.

'He's grown.'

He probably had a significant increase in proficiency while touching his state window.

It was not difficult to make such a guess.

"Would you like to check it out?"

At Kim Jong-ho's suggestion, Tae-hyun opened the state window.

However.

"......?"

The state window, which should have unfolded before his eyes, did not appear.

As Tae-hyun hesitated, Kim Jong-ho began to laugh in a hoarse voice.

"It seems that the stitching went in properly. The state window won't open, will it?"

Tae-hyun nodded.

"The form of the state window is basic, but there seems to be some kind of limit?"

"Limit?"

"Yes. It's a symptom that appears in those who have awakened skills of a higher grade than their stats. The state window of such people is too burdened to contain the skills, so it doesn't show everything."

It was the first time he had heard of this.

Kim Jong-ho, who said that, struggled to get up.

He brought the teacup that had been set aside and mixed unfamiliar tea leaves.

Tae-hyun watched the scene quietly.

He thought there would be meaning in what he was doing.

"Your state window was one of those cases. No, to be honest, it was so tattered that it was embarrassing to call it a state window."

Ragged.

Kim Jong-ho expressed it that way because he couldn't find a more appropriate word.

"......"

He poured the boiled water into the teacup and savored the aroma.

"Drink it. You'll know what I want to say when you drink this."

There was no reason to refuse the cup.

Tae-hyun emptied the contents neatly.

A warm warmth swept through his body.

It felt as if lubricant was being applied to his blood vessels.

And.

Ting.

[A great power awakens.]

[The state window is deformed.]

[The limited functions of the state window are activated.]

[A new function is added to the state window.]

['Countdown to the Race War' is checked.]

[The skill Memorize (S) has been activated. 'Fragment of the Race War' has been recorded.]

Numerous messages appeared before his eyes.

The state window unfolded automatically.

[Physical Stats]

Name: Kim Tae-hyun

Age: 20

Rank: SS

Strength: 358 Stamina: 366 Speed: 350 Magic: 519 Charisma: 275

Fatigue: 35%

Remaining Magic: 500/519

[Quests]

Race War (???)

Domain War (???)

Gray Plague (C)

[Unique Skills]

Devour (SS) - Can devour the desired target. Demonic Energy: 120

[General Skills]

Apocalypse (SS) - Forms an infinite field. Demonic Energy: 200

Memorize (SS) - Activates recording magic. Demonic Energy: 300

Apostle of the Gate (SS) - Forms a gate made of magic. Demonic Energy: 70

Heart of the Superior Species (SS) - Forms magic stone in the body. Demonic Energy: 50

Eye of the Superior Species (SS) - Sees through the opponent. Demonic Energy: 10

Ataraxia (SS) - Dominates the opponent's mind. Demonic Energy: 90

Rage of Blood (SS) - Activates physical stats. Demonic Energy: 100

Dragon's Wrath (SS) - Emits magic-enhanced Haki. Demonic Energy: 100

Beast Transformation (SS) - Imitates the body. Demonic Energy: 170

Devil's Saliva (SS) - Gives the property of poison to magic. Demonic Energy: 120

[Summon Skills]

Rosaria (SS) - Summons the Succubus Queen Rosaria. Demonic Energy: 300

Hazard (SS) - Summons Dragon Lord Hazard. Demonic Energy: 11000

Igmun (SS) - Summons Vampire Lord Igmun. Demonic Energy: 550

Orgal (SS) - Summons the Beast King Orgal. Demonic Energy: 7800

Beelzebub (SS) - Summons the Demon King Beelzebub. Demonic Energy: 8900

Jormungandr (SS) - Summons the Sea Serpent King Jormungandr. Demonic Energy: 9000

Typhon (SS) - Summons the Giant King Typhon. Demonic Energy: 99999

Nothing had changed much.

Tae-hyun could partially open and close the state window according to his will.

This was a great achievement compared to the past when he had to check his magic one by one in order to check his magic power in high-speed combat, and that was what he wanted from Kim Jong-ho in the first place.

But the thing that caught his attention was not all of that.

'Quest?'

An item that didn't exist before was created.

"You seem surprised."

Kim Jong-ho smiled powerlessly, enjoying Tae-hyun's reaction.

"Is this the work of the elder?"

"Yes. It's a new technology that was recently developed. You are the first executor."

It was a technology that he had never heard of in his past life or his present life.

But looking at Kim Jong-ho proudly saying that, it didn't seem like an ordinary technology.

"You can think of it as a kind of schedule management AI. Are you dissatisfied?"

Of course not.

The more sophisticated the state window, the more beneficial it is to the Awakened.

"I am satisfied enough."

Kim Jong-ho's face lit up with a smile at the expected reaction.

To the extent that the disciples would be surprised if they saw it.

It was an extremely satisfying smile.

His smile hesitated for a moment.

"There won't be such a thing... If there is a problem with the state window, come to me anytime as Kim Hyun-tae."

It was a meaningful word.

"Is there any side effect?"

"Side effects... It's difficult to explain."

"......?"

Tae-hyun looked at him with an expression as if he needed an explanation.

"While touching the state window, I heard the voice of a being named Noname."

"......!!"

"It was the first time I'd ever heard such a voice in my life. You have a face that seems to already know about it?"

What should he say?

Tae-hyun was thinking about that.

Kim Jong-ho continued.

"State window separation and quest system. That's all I was trying to fix, but..."

Kim Jong-ho stopped talking for a moment and fell into thought.

It was around the time the tea in the teacup had cooled down when he opened his mouth again.

"Somehow... It seems that life is dwelling in your state window."

The growth of the state window.

An explanation that was hard to believe even for Tae-hyun continued.

"Well, I should take a break now."

"The reward will be paid through the secretary."

"Hehe. It's okay, just come here sometimes and talk to me. I'm curious about what's going on in the world."

"I will."

Tae-hyun left the studio without regret.

Shortly after, the man who was in charge of Tae-hyun's guidance, the third disciple, came in.

He knew that his master had done state window work for Kim Hyun-tae, and he seemed very excited.

"M, Master. May I ask if the person who just left had any skills?"

He asked in a trembling voice.

"Disciple."

"Yes, Master."

"Contact Association President Ji Jin-hee."

"Yes?"

"Tell him that our Doje Yanghaeng will provide free state window checkups for the association players in the future, so tell him to pass it on anytime."

"Yes?!!"

The disciple asked back in a flustered voice, but Kim Jong-ho did not give him a separate answer.

"Shinhan has gained a great treasure."

Unlike his tired face.

Kim Jong-ho began to laugh out loud.

Shinhan Player Association.

Ji Jin-hee and Go Tae-wook were talking in the association president's office.

It was because of the sudden proposal, no, notification, from Doje Yanghaeng.

"Why did that picky old man suddenly...?"

Ji Jin-hee showed a dubious reaction to Kim Jong-ho's sudden notification.

As his comrade, he had proposed to work with the association several times.

Every time, he would shake his hand, saying he didn't want to get involved in politics, but suddenly he would provide Doje Yanghaeng's services for free?

It was no wonder that Ji Jin-hee was suspicious.

"It seems that there was contact with Tae-hyun. He said that he received a state window checkup with the identity of Kim Hyun-tae that the president issued. Something must have been said."

Go Tae-wook reported with a reaction that was no longer a big deal.

"Huh... Anyway, it's a good thing. The players' strength will be further enhanced. Where is Tae-hyun?"

"...I've lost contact again."

"He's even better than Hong Gil-dong."

"I agree."

How many people in Shinhan could avoid the association's eyes to this extent?

Just as Ji Jin-hee and Go Tae-wook were contemplating ways to strengthen the association's surveillance system.

"President!! Something terrible happened!!"

The secretary rushed in and raised his voice.

"Hmm... Could it be another Gray Plague case?"

Ji Jin-hee asked with a sigh.

Most of the big things that come in reports are related to the Gray Plague.

But.

"An SS+ grade gate break has occurred in Japan."

Ji Jin-hee chuckled at the secretary's words.

"Haha... This is sudden..."

"It's finally broken out in Japan too."

Go Tae-wook sadly agreed.

Japan strangely had frequent gate breaks.

Especially recently, S-grade breaks have occurred quite often.

Recently, there was an SS-grade gate break in Shinhan.

If an SS+ grade break were to occur, he was secretly guessing that it would be Japan.

"What's the detailed location?"

"It's offshore near Fukuoka..."

"Hmm..."

Wrinkles appeared on Ji Jin-hee's forehead.

Fukuoka is not far from Busan.

In other words, it means that Shinhan can also be within range.

The next day.

The Saintess officially requested help from Shinhan.

Episode 254

The SS+ rank gate break occurred suddenly.

Its location was Fukuoka.

The place closest to Busan, which is called the second capital of Shinhan, Korea.

With gate breaks and Mind's terror becoming increasingly frequent.

It was natural for the Japan Player Association, which was struggling to cope, to request support from allied and neighboring countries.

Shinhan Player Association.

A large conference room.

After a long time, players representing Shinhan, Korea, appeared.

Association President Ji Jin-hee, along with Go Tae-wook and Park Seong-jin.

Kwon Kang-hyuk, guild leader of Onsaemiro.

Kwak Si-yang, guild leader of Magicians.

Jung Han-soo, vice guild leader of Night Walker.

Choi Soo-rim, vice guild leader of Alchemist.

In addition, prominent association players, guild leaders, or vice guild leaders were present.

The agenda was simple.

Whether to provide support to Japan or not.

Normally, they would have just sent a few low to high-level players.

Although the issues between Shinhan, Korea, and Japan haven't been fully resolved, Fukuoka is within a range that can affect Busan.

But the timing was too perfect.

Immediately after the gate break occurred in Fukuoka, the constant Mind's terror that had been occurring throughout Japan stopped completely.

Considering Kasim Zort's yet-to-be-revealed abilities, it was highly likely to be a trap.

A blatantly obvious trap to attack other countries using Japan as bait.

Ji Jin-hee hasn't revealed the terms Tae-hyun made with the Saintess yet.

It was natural for opinions within the association to be divided, unaware of that fact.

"We shouldn't provide support. Japan hasn't even properly apologized for its past."

"That's right. What did we gain from helping with the uncaptured dungeon break? If the situation were reversed, who knows what tricks they would play again?"

The opposition fiercely argued their point.

It wasn't a completely unfounded story.

"However, this is a matter of life and death. No human life is unimportant."

Someone argued back, citing moral values.

"Aren't the lives of our Shinhan, Korea people precious? Association players are also precious lives."

"Whatever happens to the association players, we can't send our guild members to that death trap. Didn't Nakata Shinji die to that SS+ rank monster? Even if an S rank player goes, it's a guaranteed dog's death."

Someone mentioned Kentagenas and Kentamion.

It was the objective power evaluation of countries around the world that no one in Shinhan, Korea, except for Kim Tae-hyun, could face SS+ rank monsters yet.

"Association President. Please allow each guild to decide on support freely?"

"Forcing things like this with mobilization orders is what leads to places like the Taesan Guild breaking away."

"Hey. Why is that coming up here?!!"

Voices were getting louder and louder as they tried to get their points across.

"Enough."

Ji Jin-hee quietly opened his mouth.

The conference room fell silent with the voice mixed with mana.

"I've heard your opinions well."

"Association President!! Don't you know the schemes of those cunning bastards? No support!!"

The guild leader of a mid-sized guild, who usually respected Ji Jin-hee, shouted.

It was because he naturally thought Ji Jin-hee would agree with his opinion.

But.

"Actually, there's something you all don't know. There was a secret agreement between Kim Tae-hyun and the Saintess. It was made with an Awakener's oath."

A moment later, confusion appeared on the faces of everyone except for a few players.

Soon, the conference room buzzed.

Kim Tae-hyun and the Saintess.

Both of them are players representing their countries.

For such people to have a secret agreement?

Ji Jin-hee opened his mouth again.

Pulling and pushing to lead the atmosphere wasn't his style.

"We've agreed to borrow the Saintess' power in case of emergency. We've decided to interact more regularly and receive support for her skills."

Not bad content.

The Saintess' skill, 'Hyper Regeneration.'

There isn't anyone in the world who doesn't know about its effectiveness.

It was even said that the US couldn't abandon Japan because of the Saintess' skills, so what more needs to be said?

"What are the conditions?"

A guild leader who wasn't happy about supporting Japan asked.

"Depending on the timing, we've agreed to support ten B-rank players, five A-rank players, and one S-rank player. If necessary, we've also agreed to provide Kim Tae-hyun."

Exclamations burst out from various places.

"Oh... How could you agree to such conditions...."

"Did Kim Tae-hyun really make such an oath?"

"They're still young."

The lamentations of the opposition soon turned to anger.

The same was true for those who usually followed Ji Jin-hee due to their distrust of Japan.

"Did the Association President really allow this?"

"Even if there's regular support from the Saintess, to provide Kim Tae-hyun!!"

"Have you forgotten what the association went through at the hands of the MInds while he was gone?!!"

Some raised their voices in terrible betrayal, and some raised their voices for political reasons.

At that moment.

Bang!!

Kwon Kang-hyuk slammed his table.

"Damn. You guys are really barking like dogs."

"What, what did you say?!!"

"Guild Leader Kwon Kang-hyuk!! That's too harsh!!"

"Damn. Then let's have a manly fight."

Kwon Kang-hyuk growled.

It's because he doesn't like those who only talk big.

"Please calm down. What are you trying to do by reducing our forces?"

Kwak Si-yang, who was next to him, said jokingly.

It's a serious situation, but his position was different from Ji Jin-hee.

He does his best when Shinhan, Korea, is in danger, but this incident happened in Japan.

He'll follow Ji Jin-hee's decision, but there's no need to join this mess.

"Huh. Guild Leader Kwak has a good personality. Doesn't it bother you that these scum are trying to take only rights without working?"

Kwon Kang-hyuk said as if he didn't care about the others.

"You'll feel better if you clear your mind. Look at Player Park Seong-jin. He doesn't care about these situations anymore, does he?"

As he said, Park Seong-jin was watching the current situation quietly, with his arms crossed and his eyes closed.

He had become detached as a result of focusing solely on increasing his power without being interested in such political situations from the beginning.

It was because of that personality that he didn't enter a company to accumulate wealth or establish a guild to form an organization.

"Damn... I'm really envious of that personality at times like this. I wonder what my little brother is doing? It would be nice if the person who made the oath would appear and say something to these scum."

Kwon Kang-hyuk grumbled without caring about the gazes around him.

"Certainly, Player Kim Tae-hyun would be a great help to the Association President."

"No, that's not what I meant."

"That's what it ultimately means."

Kwak Si-yang and Kwon Kang-hyuk.

While they were talking about this and that, Ji Jin-hee was trying to talk to the key figures gathered in the conference room.

But as is the case with non-coercive meetings, the atmosphere was only getting more and more heated.

It was an act of knowing that Ji Jin-hee, a major power in Shinhan, Korea, would not easily dismiss them.

At that moment.

"This is really a mess."

A voice filled with a magnificent mana that could not be compared to what Ji Jin-hee had used earlier was heard.

The crowded conference room fell silent in an instant.

Not only because of the power.

It was a voice that no one in Shinhan, Korea, could ever not know.

"I've heard your bullshit well. So from now on."

Swish.

Tae-hyun revealed himself as the stealth was released.

"Let's have a more constructive conversation."

Putting his hand on Ji Jin-hee's shoulder.

Tae-hyun gave a friendly smile.

"Tae-hyun. I heard you couldn't be reached."

"I'm sorry for being late. I had circumstances."

That was true.

Tae-hyun headed straight to China after meeting Kim Jong-ho.

It was to find the traces of Asisat Avi.

He also turned off his earring in consideration of information being leaked.

That's why Ji Jin-hee's mobilization order arrived late.

"Hmm. How long have you been here?"

"I heard everything, so there won't be any problems participating in the meeting."

Tae-hyun replied as if it was nothing.

"That's good."

Ji Jin-hee nodded to his secretary.

It was to prepare a seat for Tae-hyun.

That appearance touched the nerve of the anti-Association President faction.

"Player Kim Tae-hyun!! Were you deceiving us!!"

"Association President, don't you know who caused this mess?!!"

Without answering.

Step. Step.

Tae-hyun approached one of the men who shouted.

He was the leader of a guild who had been spewing harsh words as an opponent of Ji Jin-hee.

Thud.

Tae-hyun put his hand on the man's shoulder.

With just that, the man's body drooped.

It's because Tae-hyun sucked all the mana with 'Energy Drain'.

Thump.

Pulling the man's body out of the seat, Tae-hyun sat in his place instead.

"Let's continue the meeting."

A silence flowed through the confident appearance.

"What is this supposed to be?!!"

"Are you trying to suppress our allies with force!!"

"How can a person who is a player of Shinhan, Korea, do such a thing?!!"

"Did you receive money from Japan!!"

Tae-hyun, who had been listening to their words for a while, shook his head.

It was to the point that he admired Ji Jin-hee's efforts to bring even these people along.

"It's true that the oath with the Saintess was my doing. But I don't want to hear any more nonsense."

"Does that mean...?"

gulp.

The players focused on Tae-hyun's next words.

"Yes. So I mean that I will take care of it too."

There were loud voices again at the casually answering appearance.

"That can't be allowed!!"

"That's right!! If Player Kim Tae-hyun isn't here, who will protect Shinhan, Korea?!!"

Tae-hyun snorted at the shameless appearance.

Not only are they trying to save their lives with the power of others, but they're also trying to exercise their rights on the power of others.

"Disgusting."

The true feelings came out of his twisted mouth.

"Wh, what?!!"

"Hey!!"

"Player Kim Tae-hyun!!"

"How dare you use the Association President as a shield...!!"

"Quiet."

Tae-hyun said coldly.

And.

"I didn't come here to ask for your permission."

Kwaaaa.

The released mana filled the conference room.

The power of a top-tier S-rank player.

That alone was enough to intimidate everyone except for Ji Jin-hee, Park Seong-jin, Kwon Kang-hyuk, and Kwak Si-yang.

"You're just shaking like this and playing politics. Pathetic."

It was a mockery of those who had become dogs wagging their tails without any conviction.

At that sight, Kwon Kang-hyuk burst out laughing.

"As expected of my brother. Damn... I should have just worked alone if I knew this would happen."

"Only Player Kim Tae-hyun can do that. Even if you look outside of Shinhan, Korea, there aren't many people who can do such a thing."

Kwak Si-yang also nodded to Tae-hyun, enjoying the changed atmosphere.

"Now, let's have a proper meeting. Vice Guild Leader Jung Han-soo. The information."

At Tae-hyun's words, Jung Han-soo, who had been watching all along, nodded and grabbed the microphone.

"The gate that appeared in Fukuoka is at least SS+ rank."

The word "at least" means that it could become SSS rank depending on the situation.

"Yes. The guild's opinion is that it wouldn't be strange for it to become SSS rank in the future."

"Hmm...."

Ji Jin-hee stroked his chin.

The first SSS-rank gate.

If such a break occurs in Fukuoka, there's no way there won't be repercussions in Shinhan, Korea.

But of course.

"It's a level that Japan's current power can't stop anyway."

Go Tae-wook added his thoughts.

Someone shouted at the obvious words trying to make a scene.

"The United States will move even if we don't!!"

"Shinhan, Korea, has already taken a hit to its image as an association of MInds. We'll become a laughing stock if we get attacked again while Player Kim Tae-hyun isn't here!!"

"The Gray Sickness can't be ignored either. A vaccine hasn't been developed yet, has it?!!"

It's an opposition for Shinhan, Korea, not a political opposition.

That's also the reason why Tae-hyun didn't suppress them with force.

"They're not wrong. It's none of our business if Japan collapses starting with Fukuoka. Except for the flow of mana wavelengths."

"Mana wavelengths...?"

"What's that...?"

Jung Han-soo stepped in to provide additional explanations.

"The flow of mana wavelengths is strange. If this continues, the nearby seas will be eroded after the gate break occurs."

"Eroded...?"

"That's never happened before...."

Jung Han-soo silently manipulated the screen in the conference room.

The materials prepared by Night Walker appeared there.

It was a picture of Fukuoka and Busan covered in blue mana.

"There's no guarantee that there won't be one in the future just because it hasn't happened before. If we fail to stop this gate break, Busan will be affected immediately, and the damage will spread to all of Shinhan, Korea in the future."

"……!!"

Those who had been raising their voices lost their words.

It's because they're disregarding the lives of their own people if they oppose it any further here.

"There's nothing to worry about. I'm planning to go to Japan alone."

It was a nuance as if he was just going to the convenience store for a while.

It's a frustrating situation from the perspective of the opposition.

"Then what are you going to do about the association's defenses?!! Who can stop an SS-rank Mind without Player Kim Tae-hyun?!!"

SS-rank Mind.

It was an appeal-like rebuttal anticipating the attacks of Kasim Zort and Min Ji-hong.

"Can't we just make an SS-rank player too?"

At Tae-hyun's words answering as if it was obvious.

"……."

"……."

No one in the conference room could open their mouths.

The meeting ended.

Ji Jin-hee, Go Tae-wook, Park Seong-jin, Kwon Kang-hyuk, and Kwak Si-yang were the only ones left in the conference room.

It's because Tae-hyun had something to say separately.

"Tae-hyun. You've done it."

Ji Jin-hee smiled kindly.

"Wasn't it better that way? It was so refreshing."

Kwak Si-yang chimed in.

"I agree."

Park Seong-jin agreed.

"This meeting has made it clear who is the enemy and who is the ally. Vice Guild Leader Jung Han-soo was watching, so he will start the investigation."

Go Tae-wook calmly summarized the situation.

It's because he and Ji Jin-hee also know that there are people leaking the association's information.

"Damn. So everything was a setup?"

Kwon Kang-hyuk, who had just grasped the situation, had a dumbfounded face.

"Yes. Information is leaking. I'm looking forward to Vice Guild Leader Jung Han-soo's report."

"Damn... Everyone left me out... Anyway, brother. Are you really going to support Japan alone?"

Kwon Kang-hyuk, who had been grumbling, asked with sparkling eyes.

It's because he was wondering if Tae-hyun would make him his partner.

"Didn't I say it earlier? I'm enough for support."

"Tsk. You always do all the fun stuff alone."

"We'll have to strengthen the defenses while Player Kim Tae-hyun is gone."

Leaving behind Kwon Kang-hyuk's grumbling, Kwak Si-yang muttered as if it couldn't be helped.

"Don't worry. I'm not planning to leave until a week later. I've contacted the Saintess in advance."

"……?"

The five people had puzzled expressions at Tae-hyun's words.

It's because they didn't know what the real secret agreement between the two was, so they thought Tae-hyun would leave immediately.

"Everyone here. You must become SS-rank players in a week."

As if not allowing opposition.

Tae-hyun's eyes were full of conviction.

And.

"Hahaha!! Damn good!!"

Kwon Kang-hyuk, who couldn't control his excitement, fidgeted.

Episode 255

An SS-rank monster and an SS+ rank monster are on different levels.

Conversely, if you can defeat them, you can be considered a definite SS-rank player.

When Taehyun heard about the gate break in Fukuoka, he thought it was a golden opportunity to increase the number of SS-rank players in New Korea.

Just like Yua-young and Ima-young.

The other four people.

Ji Jin-hee, Park Sung-jin, Kwon Kang-hyuk, and Kwak Si-yang are also talented players.

If Taehyun provided them with adequate assistance, it would be a great experience for the four of them to grow.

That thought changed two hours before the association meeting called by Ji Jin-hee.

It was when he met Jung Han-soo after returning from China.

Taehyun sensed something strange in the Nightwalker's information.

The location of the gate break was clearly Fukuoka.

But the magic power waves were heading towards New Korea.

"The rate of encroachment is incredible. At this rate... it won't take a month to reach Busan."

Jung Han-soo hinted at the possibility of it becoming the first SSS-rank gate break.

It hadn't even happened in his previous life.

'Another variable.'

Variables due to regression don't only occur in the Abyss.

Therefore, Taehyun remained calm even while listening to Jung Han-soo's words.

The only thing bothering him was the SSS-rank monster.

'If that's the opponent, things change.'

If you go in with an ambiguous force, you're likely to die in vain.

Taehyun, who had reached a similar level, knew that better than anyone.

In the end, Taehyun is the only one who can go to support from New Korea.

However, leaving New Korea empty was concerning due to the Maine side's trap.

Taehyun was also suspecting that the sudden gate break might be the work of Kasim Zolt.

'Guild leader Yua-young's power is great, but... it's not stable.'

Yua-young, who uses Rosaria's power, would be enough to deal with Kasim Zolt.

But what if Min Ji-hong joins in?

Even if Im A-young, who has risen to the SS-rank level, joins in.

'The power is clearly tilted.'

If.

What if there were a few more SS-rank players who could help them?

Even if Min Ji-hong and Kasim Zolt attacked, they could respond sufficiently.

The tilted power seemed to be leveling out.

Growing four people at the level of top-tier S-rank players into SS-rank players in a week.

It may seem like a reckless bluff at first glance.

But Taehyun already has a database called Im A-young.

'There's no reason why it's impossible for them.'

Of course, from the perspective of the four people who don't know that fact, they were just dumbfounded.

"Dongsaeng!! So you're going to fight us for a week?!!"

Kwon Kang-hyuk said in an excited voice.

He was more pleased with the fact that he could mix bodies with Taehyun than the fact that he had to become an SS-rank player within a week.

"Well, that's how it is."

"Kuhahahaha!! As expected, our dongsaeng has loyalty, loyalty!!"

"What does this have to do with loyalty? More than that, Player Kim Taehyun... is it possible to achieve that level of growth in just a week?"

Kwak Si-yang belatedly asked about the realistic possibilities.

"From my experience, the difference between top-tier S-rank and SS-rank is just a piece of paper. However, the thickness of that piece of paper cannot be ignored."

It was an ambiguous statement.

In the end, it meant that it depended on the trainee.

"Taehyun, we don't have much time... is it really possible for us?"

Ji Jin-hee mentioned the realistic situation and asked again.

Unlike his words, his eyes already believed in Taehyun.

"It is possible. It has already been confirmed through Player Im A-young."

"Could it be...?"

"Yes. If the treatment is over, she will also be called an SS-rank player."

"……!!"

"Hoo."

"Ssibal?"

"……."

"Amazing... growth rate."

The five people expressed their emotions with their own reactions.

It was the expected reaction.

'Well, even if it's SS-rank, the difference will be big.'

Just like S-rank, SS-rank can also be divided into levels.

If Yua-young is a top-tier SS-rank, Im A-young would be around middle-to-low SS-rank.

Even if these people in front of me only become as good as Im A-young.

'New Korea's power becomes unbelievably strong.'

Like before.

To the point where it won't allow raids in the style of being robbed by Kasim Zolt or Min Ji-hong.

"An offer I can't refuse, no, there's no reason to refuse."

Park Sung-jin was the first to express his intention.

His desire for growth set fire to his heart.

The embers are bound to spread.

"I'll ask too."

Following Kwak Si-yang.

"Kuhahaha!! I'm excited!!"

Kwon Kang-hyuk shouted.

"I'll ask too."

Ji Jin-hee drove a wedge with a firm voice.

"Then let's move right away."

Excluding Go Tae-wook, who went to perform his duties as association president, the five people.

Taehyun's new trainees entered the training room.

It was the place he used with Im A-young.

"From now on, for a week. You can't leave here until I allow it."

Before starting full-scale training, Taehyun said as if nailing it down.

"Haha!! Closed training is good!!"

Kwon Kang-hyuk shouted and laughed happily.

He liked this kind of training method because of his personality.

"Not bad."

"Hehehe. It's been a while since I felt like this."

Park Sung-jin and Ji Jin-hee, who can be said to be martial artists, were the same.

"Player Kim Taehyun... is the training going to be conducted in a sparring style?"

Kwak Si-yang asked with a reluctant expression.

In the past, he had trained in that way before forming a dungeon attack team that had not been cleared.

Taehyun is proficient not only in close combat but also in controlling the battlefield using magic.

So he thought that this time too, it would proceed in the form of four people facing one Taehyun.

Taehyun shook his head.

"It will be difficult to feel the right sense of pressure in that way. This time, it will mostly be a fight with yourself."

"Hoo... how?"

"I'm going to cast an illusion with my skill. If you overcome it, you will grow, and if you don't, you will have to live your life in the intensive care unit for the rest of your life."

"That's terrible."

"……."

"……!!"

"That's…."

The faces of the four people stiffened at the unexpected risk.

This is because they know that Taehyun's illusion skill has turned many Maine into pain.

"You weren't trying to cross the wall without this level of risk, were you? For reference, Player Im A-young took all of that into account and responded."

It was a provocation.

That men and women much younger than you, only twenty years old, have done it.

Obvious provocation.

The four people did not know either.

"……."

"Kuhahahaha. Yes, yes. It has to be this much."

"Haa... I envy the simple Guild Leader Kwon Kang-hyuk at times like this."

"Hmm... I won't back down either."

It was an answer that was no different from agreement.

Taehyun gave a refreshing, good-natured smile.

"I thought you'd all do that. Then, everyone, open your magic power to the maximum."

A little later.

The magic power of the skilled players filled the training room.

'Not bad control.'

It's not as overwhelming as Taehyun's magic power, but it was a power with each individual's characteristics.

He was also satisfied that they were not pushing each other's magic power away.

It was as Taehyun had grasped it usually.

Ji Jin-hee's solid and sturdy magic power.

Kwon Kang-hyuk's clumsy and violent magic power.

Park Sung-jin's sharp and delicate magic power.

Kwak Si-yang's precise and explosive magic power.

'But this is not enough.'

Taehyun released his magic power.

Kwaaaaaa.

Crimson magic power quickly engulfed the area.

It was natural for the magic power of the four people to be swallowed.

'This is Taehyun's magic power!!'

'It's an unbelievable amount.'

'Has the gap widened this much?'

'Ssibal!!'

Looking at them, who hardened their faces for their own reasons.

"I hope everyone has a good time."

Taehyun used his first skill.

Tting.

[Skill Ataraxia (SS) has been activated. Targeting the target. Magic consumption is accelerating.]

[Limiting output. Output: 5%]

With the surging crimson magic power.

The four people fell into their own mental worlds.

The core of the training method he had with Rosaria was to overcome the fight with himself.

In that respect, 'Ataraxia' was the best training support skill to overcome the wall.

Taehyun adjusted the intensity of 'Ataraxia' to create virtual enemies for them, and the four players fought against their respective enemies.

Kwak Si-yang. Ji Jin-hee. Park Sung-jin.

The three broke through the weakened Ataraxia in order.

The last one to come to his senses was Kwon Kang-hyuk.

"Heo... heo... heo…."

Around ten hours after starting training.

Kwon Kang-hyuk came out of the mental world and came to his senses.

Before he knew it, cold sweat was flowing like rain, and his body was trembling like an aspen tree.

"Ssibal... dongsaeng... I'll call you hyung-nim…."

"There's no need. This time, let's go a little stronger."

Without taking a break.

Tting.

[Skill Ataraxia (SS) has been activated. Targeting the target. Magic consumption is accelerating.]

[Limiting output. Output: 10%]

Taehyun's magic power wrapped around Kwon Kang-hyuk.

"Ssibal…!!"

At the same time as Kwon Kang-hyuk's body began to stiffen again.

Tting.

[The skill proficiency of Ataraxia (SS) has increased.]

A pleasant message popped up.

'It's not bad after all.'

There was still a lot of time left until it had been a week.

The deepest part of the abyss.

Archduke Rosaria's castle.

Two beings were facing each other in the Queen's room.

Rosaria, the owner of the castle, and Asmodeus, who came as a guest.

[It's the promised time. I hope you'll give me an answer.]

Asmodeus, who is evaluated as SSS-rank according to human standards.

He asked, shining his red eyes.

[Has time passed so quickly? Time is truly unkind.]

Rosaria replied primly.

[What I want is your answer.]

Asmodeus urged for an answer.

This is because he had already wasted a considerable amount of time trying to win her over.

[It's a rejection.]

[…….]

Asmodeus's body shook.

It meant that he was trying hard to suppress his anger.

It is common to be rejected by Archdukes.

But the reason he was so angry was because Rosaria was using her cunning.

He mentioned the person behind him and suggested joining him, and Rosaria urged him to come back after giving her time.

For Asmodeus, who was lacking the power of one Archduke, it was not a bad answer.

The result of that wait is the current situation.

[From the beginning, you had no intention of joining.]

[Hoohoohoo. Did you find out?]

Rosaria laughed, twitching her tentacles.

[…….]

Asmodeus watched her silently.

Suddenly.

He burst into laughter.

[Hmm~ Are you out of your mind because of this lady's rejection?]

[Rosaria. Come to think of it, you were the one who followed the king more than anyone else. I found the wrong address from the beginning.]

[It's nothing new. Aren't you the same?]

Rosaria's red eyes narrowed as she looked at Asmodeus.

It was because he sensed the fighting spirit emanating from his body.

[Yes. The King of the Upper Realm, Baal. He is the only king for me.]

[This lady has no intention of insulting your master.]

[Likewise. I'm not interested in your master either. But that 'human' is different.]

An existence who is a human but is more talked about by monsters than anyone else.

Rosaria did not know that the human Asmodeus was talking about was her contractor.

[Rosaria. You follow the King of the Lower Realm and tend to underestimate the power of the King of the Upper Realm.]

[Speak easily. This lady doesn't like riddles.]

[It's not just that human who has regressed.]

Twitch.

Just for a moment.

Rosaria's red eyes wavered.

[Could it be... are you saying that you have your memories intact?]

A mysterious power used by the king.

Reincarnation. Or regression.

It is a power that even the Archduke, who boasts absolute power in the Abyss, cannot avoid.

The only one who can maintain his memory when regressing is Kim Taehyun himself.

The reason why Rosaria was able to know that fact was only because she peeped into Taehyun's memory through her authority.

For others, the memory of that time would still be incomplete.

But the monster who provided the starting point for the regression.

Asmodeus has the memory of that time intact?

Even this place is not the Upper Realm, but the Lower Realm.

A place where Baal's power does not reach.

[Are you surprised?]

Asmodeus's body shook, thinking he had regained the initiative.

The fighting spirit emanating from his body became even more intense.

[Hmm~ You certainly seem to have succeeded in capturing this lady's interest.]

Clang. Clang.

Rosaria's tentacles struck the floor.

[I'll have to peek into your memory. Come here.]

Swish. Swish.

The tentacles wrapped in purple magic power moved forward.

[Rosaria. They say you're the weakest of the Archdukes?]

[Ahaha. Do you want to test the power you received from the King of the Upper Realm? You insolent child.]

[There's no reason why not.]

Poohwaak.

The fighting spirit emanating from Asmodeus's body turned into a huge magic power.

Rosaria's eyes narrowed at the level far exceeding expectations.

[I'm sorry for laying hands on my contractor's prey, but.]

Jjwaaak.

One of Rosaria's tentacles split into dozens of strands.

[Don't even think about getting out easily.]

Jjwaaak. Jjwaak.

Dozens of bundles of tentacles split into branches.

For a moment, all those tentacles rushed at one prey.

Kwajik!! Kwajik!!

Asmodeus's body was swallowed by the tentacles.

256화

"Hah... Hah..."

"Sh*t..."

"Hoo..."

"Hmm..."

Taehyun looked at the four people who were breathing heavily.

They were, in order, Kwak Siyang, Kwon Kanghyuk, Park Sungjin, and Ji Jinhee.

'Only three days and they're already at this level.'

It was much faster than Im Ayoung.

What was amazing was that their growth rate was no less than hers.

Im Ayoung had only endured the 20% output of 'Ataraxia' on the last day.

These four were enduring that power on the third day.

Of course, this was separate from 'Apocalypse'.

"Excellent."

Taehyun scanned the battered four and said.

Taehyun was already using 'Eyes of a Higher Being'.

He could see how twisted the flow of mana was in the four people.

"Bro... is it over now...?"

Kwon Kanghyuk, panting, spoke weakly, which was rare for him.

His chronic weakness was mana resistance.

Although it was an incredible improvement compared to the past, he was still the weakest in mana resistance among the four.

Because of this, Ataraxia was his nemesis.

"Yes. I think your resistance to mental attacks is good enough now."

"Yes!!"

Kwon Kanghyuk forgot his dignity and raised both hands.

The other three were not much different.

Just less so than Kwon Kanghyuk.

Taehyun's 'Ataraxia' was the biggest challenge they had ever faced.

"Hmm... I definitely feel stronger mentally."

"Me too... I'm handling mana more smoothly than before."

Ji Jinhee and Kwak Siyang muttered, manipulating their mana.

Park Sungjin silently channeled mana into the Seven Branching Sword.

Kiiiing-

"......!!"

A layer of mana was added on top of the Seven Branching Sword.

This wasn't simple weapon enhancement.

Like Nakata Shinji, who was once called a Demon Sword, like the White Night he held, it felt like it could cut through anything.

'Has he finally reached his level?'

The man who was his goal, the man he couldn't reach no matter how much he swung his sword alone.

The man who, just before death, was undoubtedly beyond the top tier of S-rank and reached SS-rank.

To the final realm that man had reached.

Now.

'He reached it.'

Squeeze.

His hand gripping the Seven Branching Sword involuntarily tightened.

'I should have him as a mentor.'

That's what he thought as he looked at Taehyun, who had become his new goal.

The other three were also convinced.

That now, they could handle Hydra Fenrir, an SS-rank monster, alone.

It was an amazing feat achieved in just three days.

But.

Seeing the four people satisfied with their respective achievements, Taehyun shook his head.

"It's too early to be satisfied with that."

"Hmm...?"

"Is there... something left?"

"......"

"Sh*t..."

Seeing the four people stiffen, Taehyun nodded.

"Since there are about three days left, let's start the main game."

"Main game?"

"It's not... over?"

Kwak Siyang and Park Sungjin reacted, wondering what he meant.

Surprisingly, Kwon Kanghyuk was the first to notice.

"Hahaha, no way!!"

He burst out laughing, anticipating Taehyun's next words.

"Yes. If mental growth has been achieved, then the body must follow."

Kwaaaaa.

Once again, crimson mana erupted from Taehyun's body.

The familiar mana made the four players flinch.

Especially Kwon Kanghyuk's reaction was a sight to behold.

"This is bullsh*t!! This is what I've been waiting for!! Bro!!!"

Excited at the thought of bumping bodies, he flexed his muscular body.

"Guild Leader Kwon Kanghyuk. Do you have a problem with your personality?"

"Euhahahahaha."

Taehyun quietly smiled at him, who was laughing heartily.

He was like a puppy wanting to play with its owner.

"Let's start in 10 seconds."

Tring.

[Skill Apocalypse(SS) has been activated. Target is not specified.]

[Output is limited. Output: 5%]

Kugugugung.

Along with a huge gravitational pull.

Darkness descended on the training room.

"Everyone, hold on."

Unlike Kwon Kanghyuk's wish.

Taehyun didn't need to bump bodies with them.

A week had passed.

Taehyun was being seen off by Go Taewook at the association's warp gate zone.

As of the last training session the day before, Ji Jinhee, Park Sungjin, Kwon Kanghyuk, and Kwak Siyang had been admitted to the intensive care unit.

"Taehyun-ah... how much did you push them...?"

Go Taewook asked, checking the four people's recovery charts.

Kwak Siyang aside, Ji Jinhee, Kwon Kanghyuk, and Park Sungjin were among the top 5 players in Shinhan Korea in terms of physical ability.

Those people were groaning and unable to recover properly.

"There is no growth without pain."

At the nonchalant response.

"It gives me the creeps just listening to you."

Go Taewook got goosebumps.

Suddenly, the incident in Jeju Island came to mind.

"Chief. Gate preparation is complete."

An association player approached and reported.

"I'll be back."

"Yes. Shinhan Korea will definitely be protected, so don't worry. Guild Leader Yoo Ayoung and Ayoung have also woken up."

Taehyun nodded.

Yoo Ayoung and Im Ayoung.

Especially with the power of Rosaria dwelling in Yoo Ayoung, even if Kasim Jort brought the main force of Harsultan, it wouldn't be easy.

"Well, I'll take care of it quickly and come back."

Of course, the most ideal picture was for Taehyun to return before that happened.

Being seen off by Go Taewook and the association players.

Taehyun crossed the warp gate to Japan.

What he saw upon crossing the gate were the Saintess and other executives of the Japanese Player Association.

"We have been waiting for you, Player Kim Taehyun."

The Saintess bowed respectfully to greet Taehyun.

Several other executives tried to introduce themselves, but Taehyun raised his hand to stop them.

"I don't have time to listen to leisurely introductions. Let's hear the situation while we go to the command center."

An unknown person led the way, and Taehyun followed behind.

The Saintess stayed next to Taehyun and explained the situation.

"Currently, a huge barrier has been deployed near Fukuoka, making it difficult to grasp the internal situation."

"The inside must be annihilated."

"...That's what we expect."

"Any movement?"

"Still none."

Although a mana wave corresponding to SS+ rank is felt from the gate break, not a single monster has come out of the barrier.

It's impossible to enter to assess the situation because of the barrier.

It was the same situation as when the Saintess asked for help a week ago.

The only difference was.

"The mana leaking around the barrier is flowing into the sea. And that looks like..."

"Like a Demonic Sea?"

"Yes. Analysis shows that it's a mana concentration that can only be seen in the deepest parts."

As if she were Taehyun's exclusive secretary, the Saintess faithfully explained the situation.

Of course, this was information he already knew from Jung Hansoo.

While they were talking about this and that, they arrived at the operation command center.

There, Shinkai Jun, who had been appointed as the new association leader, was there.

"Welcome. Player Kim Taehyun. Thank you for coming so far."

Association Leader Shinkai was a pro-Korean figure.

Like the Saintess, he bowed respectfully.

"It's no trouble to come so far. If you show the corresponding attitude, Association Leader Ji Jinhee will be much more comfortable."

If you want to receive proper help, properly listen to what Ji Jinhee is asking for.

It was such pressure.

"I am trying... to persuade the Prime Minister."

"You will have to work harder on that effort in the future."

"I understand..."

Leaving behind the hardened face of Association Leader Shinkai.

Taehyun turned his eyes to the many screens installed in the operation command center.

The angles were different, but what they showed was similar.

A ridiculously large blue barrier was spread out over the entire Fukuoka area.

"It seems that this is all the information we can get here."

"I'm sorry... all the players we sent in have lost contact..."

This meant that they were no longer sending players in order to reduce meaningless sacrifices.

"Well, I didn't have high expectations. I'll take care of the rest myself."

"I ask for your help."

Association Leader Shinkai bowed once again.

Following him, the executives of the association reluctantly bowed.

Taehyun ignored their greetings and left the operation command center.

The place he headed after leaving the operation command center was the association's warp gate zone.

Taehyun stopped in front of a large warp gate.

"It's impossible to go directly into Fukuoka. Because of the barrier..."

The Saintess, who had followed, said as if she was troubled.

It is common sense that gate skills do not work properly in places where a barrier is set up.

However.

That's only the case when the mana emanating from the opponent's barrier is significantly higher or similar to the caster's.

Taehyun possessed the 'Apostle of the Gate' skill, which had been further strengthened through fusion.

And his mana was far beyond the SS+ rank.

"I'll activate the gate. What's the coordinates?"

Taehyun looked around at the gate operators and asked.

Some of them approached.

"...I'll go with you too."

Belatedly, the Saintess spoke with a determined expression.

"Even super-speed regeneration can't be blindly trusted against SS+ rank monsters, you know?"

It wasn't ridicule, but the truth.

She must have felt it acutely when facing Kentamion in the past.

Even so.

"The fate of our country is at stake. We can't put all the burden on Taehyun-nim."

She gave a model answer that was unthinkable of the previous Saintess.

'She's really changed a lot.'

He even wished that the awakened Yoo Ayoung would be at least half as good as the current Saintess.

Shrugging his shoulders, Taehyun approached the large gate.

Tring.

[Skill Apostle of the Gate(SS) has been activated.]

Hwaaaaaak.

Taehyun's mana flowed into the gate.

It takes quite a bit of time for ten operators to activate a large gate.

But it didn't even take 10 seconds for Taehyun to activate it alone.

'What kind of ridiculous mana is this...'

'This is Kim Taehyun of Shinhan Korea...'

'The world's number one ranked player...'

'I understand why Tsurara-nim and the association leader are groveling.'

The Japanese players watching alternated between the gate and Taehyun with incredulous expressions.

"Coordinates."

Taehyun, who had completely activated the gate, spoke once again.

"Ah, I, I'll enter it now."

The man hurriedly entered the coordinates of the Fukuoka branch gate.

Tring.

[Coordinates have been entered. Movement is possible.]

With the message that appeared before his eyes, Taehyun crossed the gate.

The Saintess followed behind him.

"It's brutal."

Taehyun muttered to himself.

As if it had been submerged in the Demonic Sea once, no signs of life were felt.

The inside of the barrier.

It was a sight that could only be seen at the Fukuoka branch.

The Saintess, who came out of the gate after him, also flinched.

'He came straight inside?'

It wasn't unreasonable to be surprised.

She followed him because she thought Taehyun had something in mind.

But she never thought that the gate would pass through the barrier.

"It seems that this is as far as we can move with the gate."

Regardless of the Saintess's reaction, Taehyun looked displeased.

It was a skill that he checked separately after finishing fusion and status window inspection.

With his existing specs, it was a skill that could easily move through this level of barrier.

But.

In Fukuoka, the skill bounced back as if blocked by something huge.

It was a similar phenomenon to when one moves to the deep sea without reaching the deepest part.

'Could it be that a monster of SSS rank or higher is setting up the barrier?'

For now, it was the most likely assumption.

Tring.

[Skill Energy Drain(SS) has been activated. Searching for the target.]

Crimson mana spread out from under Taehyun's feet.

This was to clearly identify the location of the being using the barrier.

However.

[You made me wait a long time, contractor of Rosaria.]

"......!!"

Suddenly, the monster's language was heard in Taehyun's head.

Despite being a voice he had never heard before, he felt a familiar sense of oppression.

'Could it be...'

Taehyun's worries didn't last long.

[This humble one is Jormungandr. Also known as the Sea King of the Demonic Sea.]

The magnificent voice echoed once again in his head.

'Crazy. How did a Great Monarch get through the gate...'

Taehyun hadn't even finished thinking.

Kwaaaaaak.

The Demonic Sea stirred in the distance.

The Demonic Sea became a wave, and the wave became a huge tsunami.

The huge mountain-like tsunami was rushing towards the two of them.

"P, Player Kim Taehyun!!"

Unlike the Saintess who shouted urgently.

[It is a pleasure to meet you, key chosen by the king.]

Jormungandr had a nuance as if he was even greeting them.

Chapter 257

Archduke Jormungandr.

A figure Taehyun had neither met nor possessed any substantial information about.

Clearly, the magic emanating from him was weak and insignificant for an Archduke.

Yet, Taehyun was certain that he was the real Jormungandr.

The approaching mana storm, looming closer every moment.

The mana storm was a substance composed of pure magical energy.

The sheer volume of it, swelling like a tsunami, was undeniably beyond the capacity of any single SS+ rank monster to control.

'I don't know how he lowered his mana signature, but...'

Its danger was comparable to, if not exceeding, a technique of an SSS-rank monster.

'Being swept away won't be the end of it.'

Being surrounded by mana meant being placed within the opponent's domain.

Especially when surrounded by such organically structured mana, it was akin to offering up both arms.

'I might be corrupted.'

Perhaps his true aim was to infiltrate his mindscape.

After all, the Archdukes were all desperate to get their hands on Taehyun's body.

Ding.

[Skill Apocalypse (SS) has been activated.]

Whoooosh.

Darkness descended around Taehyun, just as the tsunami was about to crash down.

He could feel his stats rising, but it wasn't enough.

Ding.

[Skill Bestialization (SS) has been activated. Specifying the mimicking area.]

[Skill Eye of the Superior (SS) has been activated.]

[Skill Heart of the Superior (SS) has been activated.]

Kiiiiing.

Taehyun could feel mana condensing within his chest.

The condensing mana soon took on a solid form.

A mana crystal, harder and sturdier than anything else.

A "monster's heart" was created within his chest.

Taehyun's crimson eyes deepened in color.

[Additional effect 'Super-Speed Regeneration' has manifested.]

[Additional effect 'Physical Enhancement' has manifested.]

[Additional effect 'Mana Detection' has manifested.]

[HP has temporarily increased.]

These were effects he already knew from his experiments.

He used 'Apocalypse' to boost his physical stats and 'Bestialization' to further enhance his HP and strength stats.

On top of that, he used 'Eye of the Superior' and 'Heart of the Superior' to prepare himself for the incoming mana storm.

"Tae, Taehyun-nim...!!"

The Saintess trembled at the sudden darkening of the surrounding environment.

She remembered.

Taehyun's field.

And what she had suffered there.

However, this time, it was being used to fight against the approaching mana storm.

Swish. Swish.

'Chains of Binding' rose from the ground, coiling around the Saintess's body as if to protect her.

It was a consideration to prevent her from being swept away by the mana storm and becoming a nuisance.

"You'll need to stay focused."

Taehyun said, looking at the tsunami that was now right in front of him.

How high was it?

Twenty meters?

No.

'At least thirty meters.'

Although they both had super-speed regeneration, there was no point in directly colliding with it with their bodies.

Pajijijijik.

The mana storm sparked as it touched Taehyun's field.

Swish. Swish.

Kugugugugu.

The gravity and layers of chains attempted to suppress the mana storm, but it was not enough.

Ding.

[Skill Apocalypse (SS) has been enhanced. Mana consumption is accelerating.]

Swoooosh.

The enhanced gravity pressed down, and the chains began to densely block the mana storm.

The Saintess looked at Taehyun with awe as he blocked the mana storm with such an unbelievable method.

"Taehyun-nim, you're alive..."

Just as she was about to speak cheerfully,

"Prepare yourself."

"Yes?"

Without answering,

Taehyun, his expression hardened, raised his mana to its maximum.

Geugeugeugeuk.

Blue mana began to leak through the gaps in the chains.

One drop. Two drops.

The gradually leaking drops gathered together.

And after a short while, another massive tsunami was formed.

Pajijijijik.

Sparks flew as the two mana collided.

But that didn't last long either.

Soon, Taehyun's Apocalypse was completely submerged in the mana storm.

Ding.

['A tremendous power' has been detected. You are under Submersion (SS). Resisting with 'Mysterious Power'. Resistance succeeded.]

['A tremendous power' has been detected. You are under Erosion (SS). Resisting with 'Mysterious Power'. Resistance succeeded.]

Bubble bubble.

Such messages were vividly heard in Taehyun's ears as he was swallowed by the mana storm.

Swooooosh.

His mind was dizzy from the mana storm that shook his body back and forth.

If it weren't for 'Bestialization' and 'Heart of the Superior', he would have fainted long ago.

Taehyun opened his eyes in the swirling vortex of the chaotic mana storm.

'Horrible.'

He could see it vividly with the still-active 'Eye of the Superior'.

The blue mana was tearing apart 'Apocalypse'.

And that's not all.

Every second, an unidentified skill was trying to devour Taehyun's body.

The Saintess's body, unable to withstand it, was already being torn to shreds and regenerating repeatedly.

If this continued, not only would the Saintess die when her mana ran out, but Taehyun would eventually succumb to the erosion as well.

[You're not as impressive as I heard.]

Jormungandr's voice echoed in his head once again.

[Kim Taehyun. I'll give you a choice. Become my contractor.]

'......'

He couldn't answer.

Even so, the guy brazenly continued to say what he wanted.

[Rosaria's loyalty to the King is high, but in the end, she won't be of much help. But I'm different. The mana storm is an infinite power. If you accept that power, you will become an existence that cannot be compared to what you are now.]

An existence beyond comparison.

Those words resonated deeply.

Because they reminded him of what the King had said in the past.

"Don't limit yourself."

"Transcend the limits of being human."

"Surpass the Archdukes."

The King had definitely said that.

'There's no way "surpassing the Archdukes" means settling for being an Archduke's contractor.'

[Choose. Will you become my contractor, or will you become a trophy?]

Contrary to Jormungandr's warning, Taehyun's answer was already decided.

It was a choice that didn't even require contemplation.

Just in time, the message he had been waiting for appeared.

Ding.

[Skill Heart of the Superior (SS) has completed its search.]

[Skill Eye of the Superior (SS) has been enhanced. Mana consumption is accelerating.]

Pazzzzz.

Within the swirling vortex of the mana storm.

Something opaque could be seen.

'Is that it?'

Taehyun detonated all the mana he had been saving at once.

Sparks flew as it collided with the mana storm, but that small gap was enough.

Ding.

[Unique Skill Predation (SS) has been activated. Specifying the target. Mana consumption is accelerating.]

Ignoring the mana storm environment.

Craaaaaack.

Predation opened its massive maw.

[......!!]

In a very fleeting moment.

There was even the illusion that the surrounding mana storm had stopped.

Crunch!!

Predation's maw swallowed the surging mana storm.

The mana storm began to disappear.

Swooooosh.

Taehyun's body quickly dried as if it had never been wet.

The source of the mana storm was, after all, mana.

When the owner of the mana was struck, it lost its properties and evaporated.

And.

There was a man in front of Taehyun.

Long hair mixed with blue and red.

Heterochromatic eyes, blue and red.

Within the swirling mana storm.

The man, maintaining a calm demeanor, was looking down at Taehyun.

He looked exactly like the Basilisk he had faced in the past.

"A familiar face."

[Indeed. It wasn't wrong to say that you were chosen by the King.]

The man.

Jormungandr opened his mouth.

The Basilisk was also a monster that could be called his subordinate.

But the pressure in his voice was incomparable.

'This one's the original.'

He immediately realized that the Basilisk's human form was imitating Jormungandr.

Even though they were emitting the same SS+ rank mana, their presence alone was different.

Still.

"For an Archduke, your mana is quite pathetic?"

Taehyun spoke his true feelings.

His presence and the skill with which he handled the mana storm were remarkable.

But compared to the Archdukes Taehyun had met, he was unbelievably weak.

'Did the laws of the Abyss have an effect?'

The Archdukes of the Abyss.

And the reason why their top-tier subordinates couldn't cross over.

Rosaria had simply summarized the reason as the laws of the Abyss.

It was a law so strict that even Taehyun, who was originally human, was recognized as an SSS-rank monster.

He didn't know what tricks he had used, but

'There's no way an Archduke could cross over without any side effects.'

The reason why he was weakened now was likely due to that.

Taehyun's guess was not wrong.

[It seems you know about the laws of the Abyss, judging by your lack of surprise.]

Jormungandr said as if he was relieved to have less explaining to do.

As he said, his main body was resting in the castle.

His current body was weakened to the point where it couldn't even be compared to a familiar wandering the lower levels.

Even though he didn't bring his subordinates, he had to weaken his body to this extent to cross the gate.

[Truly, a pathetic place.]

Jormungandr couldn't hide his displeasure.

He had lowered his mana to the level of his subordinates.

Even so, his 'existence' filled a significant portion of this small planet's allowed limit.

If it hadn't been for the purpose of meeting the human in front of him.

He wouldn't have bothered with such troublesome things.

[I hope you liked my greeting.]

Click.

As he snapped his fingers, the devastated state of Fukuoka was revealed.

It was something that was planned from the moment the SS+ rank gate break occurred.

"Yeah. I hope you like my greeting too."

Ding.

[Skill Energy Drain (SS) has been activated.]

A significant amount of mana had been consumed due to maintaining many skills.

The reduced mana was quickly replenished.

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

Taehyun ignored the rising message and watched Jormungandr.

'If he's weakened to this extent, it's worth a try.'

A weakened Archduke was a good prey to grow stronger from.

Jormungandr wasn't unaware of that fact either.

[Are you planning to use the King's power again?]

He raised the corner of his mouth as if he was looking forward to it.

'Let's see how long that face lasts.'

Taehyun, having calculated that he had a good chance of winning, was about to use Predation again when.

Ding.

[Quest 'Jormungandr's Mana Stone' has been created.]

'What?'

[Reward for success - Skill Heart of the Superior (SS) enhancement. Skill ??? (???) creation.]

It was an unexpected message.

It seemed that the feature that Kim Jongho had newly applied was working.

Because it was an early version, the explanation of how to perform the quest, or what the penalties for failure were, was ambiguous.

Above all, it was hard to do the quest right now.

'Everything is unclear.'

But on the other hand, it was also a good opportunity to see how the status window would react.

With conflicting thoughts, he temporarily suppressed the mana of Predation.

[......?]

Jormungandr wore an expression of not understanding.

The familiar mana felt from Kim Taehyun's body.

Orgal, Igmun.

He also knew that he could use Rosaria and Beelzebub's mana.

It was definitely a transcendental power for a human vessel to contain, for a normal Archduke contractor to contain.

But he was an Archduke.

Even if he was weakened, he couldn't inflict a meaningful impact unless it was the 'King's Power'.

Kim Taehyun must have realized that sufficiently with the mana storm a moment ago.

But.

[Why are you hesitating?]

Tilt.

Jormungandr tilted his head as if he genuinely didn't understand.

Taehyun chuckled at that unfitting appearance.

"Meeting you feels like an unexpected gift."

[That's different from what I heard. Looking at you now, you're not sane...]

Before Jormungandr could finish his words.

Ding.

[Skill Blood Frenzy (SS) has been activated.]

Crimson mana subsided and blood-red mana bloomed.

[A tremendous power awakens. Strength increases. Strength is now 365(380).]

[A tremendous power awakens. Stamina increases. Stamina is now 375(380).]

[A tremendous power awakens. Speed increases. Speed is now 370(380).]

[A tremendous power awakens. Mana increases. Mana is now 530.]

The stat increase effect is not significant due to the influence of facing Jormungandr.

Even so.

Taehyun rushed towards Jormungandr without delay.

First form of ancient Chinese martial arts, Bursting Energy.

Wham.

'Bestialization' and 'Blood Frenzy'.

Taehyun's fist, enhanced by the two skills, struck Jormungandr's face.

Ding.

[You have accepted the quest 'Jormungandr's Mana Stone'.]

[Progress rate - 0.1%]

'Bingo.'

The corners of Taehyun's mouth rose at the message he heard.

258th episode

Guangzhou, China.

Har Sultan's hideout.

"Intriguing."

Kasim Zort murmured, as if unable to understand.

"What is it?"

Asked Main Berto, the skinhead man guarding his side.

He seemed ordinary on the outside.

But he was one of Kasim Zort's most outstanding disciples, a Main.

Moreover, he was an S-class top-tier Main, surpassing even the infamous Narendra Nehru of the past.

That's why he didn't understand.

Why his master, who had reached the realm of immortality, was so puzzled.

Kasim Zort muttered quietly.

"How did a gate break occur?"

"Are you referring to Japan?"

"Yes. The magic power is incomparably weak, but the presence is comparable to the demons in the deepest depths."

"The deepest depths..."

Berto muttered softly, recalling that hellish landscape.

An unknown territory yet to be explored by players.

He had only been there a few times with his master.

Even so, he was certain.

He was also one of the top Mains on Earth.

'This is still too early a stage for me.'

He immediately grasped his place.

The place was filled with SS-class demons, and there were even SSS-class demons that humans couldn't handle.

Above all, the archdukes who ruled the Abyss.

Compared to them, he would be no better than a bug.

Only his master, who had been chosen by an archduke and cast off the shackles of mortality, could leisurely stroll through that place.

That master was looking at the gate that had appeared in Fukuoka and was puzzled.

Kasim Zort continued his thoughts without answering his disciple's questioning gaze.

'It's not the Black Hole's doing.'

That guy is too busy chasing Asissat Evi right now.

The world knows that the gate break in Japan is his doing, but that's not the truth.

It's true that they're carrying out terror attacks all over Japan and using it as bait to prepare for the invasion of other countries.

But it had nothing to do with the current break.

No, they were the ones who were surprised.

The scale of the current break was on par with the level he was planning to open in New Korea.

'If an SSS-class demon can cause a gate break on its own... The day when the new world arrives is not far off.'

From Berto's point of view, it wasn't a bad event.

Kasim Zort thought differently.

A week had passed since the gate break occurred in Fukuoka.

There was a barrier in place, so the information coming in was limited.

Like the player associations of each country.

All they knew was that SS+ class to SSS class demons had appeared.

But.

Kasim Zort was sure.

There was a huge presence behind this gate break.

Maybe, no.

'It must be an archduke.'

He couldn't explain it.

It was just a feeling that he, as an archduke contractor, especially one who had given his soul to Beelzebub, could sense.

A faint but similar sensation was felt at the same time as the break, and it still lingered.

'It's not Lord Beelzebub.'

The summoning pact they had made was special, unlike ordinary cases.

Just as he couldn't betray him.

Beelzebub had no reason to betray him either.

If he was going to do something like this, he would have given him a heads up.

Then the remaining candidates narrowed down to six.

Igmune. Orgal. Rosaria. Lucifer. Hazard. Jormungandr.

The probabilities of Rosaria and Lucifer were also low.

Their contractors were Kim Taehyun and Cody Cruz.

'Those guys who pretend to be righteous would never do something like this.'

Besides, the current Japan was a good environment for them to use as a buffer or bait.

There was no reason to create chaos with a gate break.

Assissat Evi, who was presumed to be Hazard's contractor, was also in the same situation.

That woman was being chased by the Black Hole right now.

Then what was left?

'Igmune and Jormungandr.'

Coincidentally, both of them had vacant contractor positions.

Igmune had lost his contractor to Kim Taehyun, and Jormungandr had not had a contractor yet.

'It can't be Igmune either.'

He had recently been critically injured in a battle with Beelzebub.

He would be too busy focusing on recovering in his castle.

'The more I know, the more interesting he becomes.'

He was suddenly reminded of when he had visited Beelzebub's castle a while ago.

The castle had been half-destroyed, and when he heard that Kim Taehyun was the cause.

Kasim Zort smiled inwardly.

To think that a human could shake up an archduke like this.

But the aftermath of Kim Taehyun's battle had also come back to bite him.

Because Beelzebub had used a lot of his power, his contractor's immortality had become incomplete.

Was that all?

The laws of the Abyss had become even stronger.

It was clear that it was because one of the archduke contractors, Kim Taehyun, had become stronger.

The Abyss's laws, which had become more restrictive, would definitely affect his plans.

'Then.'

In the end, there was only one archduke left.

'Has Jormungandr crossed over? Why?'

His thoughts kept going around in circles.

He wanted to go to Fukuoka and ask, but there was a barrier that even he couldn't pass through.

While Kasim Zort was thinking about how to get through the barrier.

"Master. It seems that Kim Taehyun has headed to Fukuoka."

"Are you saying that that guy has passed through the barrier?"

"Yes. What should we do?"

Berto asked.

What he was asking was about their future plans.

Preparations to strike Japan had already been completed.

This attack had been prepared at China's request.

He didn't have to refuse.

But sometimes, it was necessary to give and take for the sake of the greater good.

'If this had been successful, the Japanese players would have been wiped out. Lucky them.'

Har Sultan was planning to simultaneously strike various parts of Japan and inflict devastating damage.

They would just be scattering blood for the sake of the greater good.

After that, it was up to China to do what they wanted.

Then Kasim Zort opened his mouth.

"Change the destination."

"Where to?"

"New Korea."

"......"

Berto's body trembled slightly.

It was because he remembered the monster-like woman he had met there during the previous attack.

Kasim Zort was the same.

"It seems that we will be meeting that woman sooner than expected."

He smiled wryly as he recalled Yoo Ah-young's appearance.

At the same time, he didn't like Kim Taehyun's arrogant actions.

Even though his power had weakened somewhat.

He dared to not take him seriously and went to Japan to provide support?

'Did he think I was a joke?'

There were eleven S-class top-tier Mains on his side.

Even if Yoo Ah-young had some unbelievable awakening, she was just one person.

In the end, blood would once again be scattered in the New Korean Player Association.

"I'm curious about the expression on Kim Taehyun's face when he returns to New Korea."

Kasim Zort smiled wryly and got up.

It was time to shed blood.

Chinese Ancient Martial Arts, 4th Form, Seon-gyeong.

Crack.

Yormungandr's arm, which had received Taehyun's punch, was dislocated as it was.

[Hmm.]

Yormungandr showed a puzzled reaction to his arm, where the bone was sticking out.

Such damage from just blocking an attack of this level?

[I see.]

Yormungandr nodded belatedly.

He had polymorphed into a human form to reduce the burden on his body as much as possible.

It seemed to be the influence of that.

[How can the human body be so weak?]

Crackle.

The dislocated bone was restored to its original state.

Taehyun watched the scene and continued his next attack.

Chinese Ancient Martial Arts, 5th Form, Penetrating Power.

Yormungandr flashed his mismatched eyes and evaded the attack.

Kim Taehyun, the prey in front of his eyes.

Even though he was using Orgal's power.

[It won't be able to completely destroy this body.]

As if all of Taehyun's attacks were useless actions.

Yormungandr clicked his tongue.

Although weakened compared to his true form, his super-fast regeneration was still intact.

In order to inflict devastating damage on this body, he would need to use the 'King's Power' that he had used to break through the Mana Sea.

That was the only thing that could do it.

Even so.

[Why are you so stubbornly attacking me?]

That was what Yormungandr couldn't understand.

[Don't tell me you think you can fight me with that level of power?]

Taehyun silently prepared for his next attack.

It would be a great movement by the standards of ordinary demons.

But there was no way Yormungandr's crimson eyes wouldn't see it.

[This is troubling. If you are so reluctant to show your true power, it will be a waste of my time to have come all this way.]

Boom!!

Chinese Ancient Martial Arts, 6th Form, Mythical Realm.

He enhanced his stats by overlapping 'Beast Transformation' and 'Blood Frenzy'.

It was the Mythical Realm used with such a body.

Its power was not the same as what Yormungandr had blocked a moment ago.

Yormungandr's half of his body, which had blocked it with one arm, burst open.

But that was only for a moment.

Gurgle. Gurgle.

The blue mana that had been scattered around the area stuck to him like liquid, and his body was regenerated.

It was truly an unbelievable regeneration ability.

But Taehyun didn't care.

He had already seen this level of super-fast regeneration many times.

[Didn't I tell you it was useless?]

"We'll see."

New Korean Ancient Martial Arts and Chinese Ancient Martial Arts.

Every time he attacked using skills and ancient martial arts, Yormungandr had to use super-fast regeneration non-stop.

At first glance, it seemed like a meaningless back-and-forth, but it wasn't for Taehyun.

Ding.

[Quest 'Yormungandr's Magic Stone' progress rate - 2%]

Although it was only a little bit.

The percentage was going up every time he dealt meaningful damage to him.

He could use Devour right away, but the reason he was deliberately testing his skills was because of that.

'I can't just let this good opportunity go to waste.'

This wasn't the Abyss.

Yormungandr was weakened, and Taehyun was confident that he could swallow him with all his might at any time.

Of course, it seemed like he was hiding something as well.

'Should I try Baeklang this time?'

Just as Taehyun was about to change the weight of his attack.

Bang!!

"......!!"

Taehyun's right arm flew away with the explosion.

[Were you surprised?]

Yormungandr asked, shining his mismatched eyes.

[I don't know what you want to test through me, but.]

Bang!!!

"......!!"

Taehyun's leg flew away due to the explosion that occurred without any warning.

[The price will not be light.]

Crack.

Just like Yormungandr had done.

Taehyun's arm and leg, which had exploded, were regenerated in an instant.

It was the overlapping effect of 'Blood Frenzy' and 'Superior Species Heart'.

Thanks to that, the regeneration speed had become even faster.

The tables had turned.

Explosion and regeneration.

Taehyun approached Yormungandr while repeating super-fast regeneration.

To think that he wasn't using the King's Power even in this situation?

That appearance was very interesting to Yormungandr.

[Interesting.]

Bang!!!

Taehyun's half of his body flew away.

But he quickly repaired his body.

It was definitely different from ordinary super-fast regeneration.

Similar to.

[It's the same presence as 'us'.]

It was a vitality that could not be seen as a human vessel.

In the meantime, Taehyun had come right up to his nose.

[Now. Show me what you can do. I will personally commend you for your hard work.]

Yormungandr reached out with both hands.

Whatever Taehyun did.

He would take it once.

It was an act of generosity.

Ding.

[Skill Beast Transformation (SS) has been enhanced. Magic power consumption has been accelerated.]

Crack.

Taehyun's beast-transformed body became even larger.

New Korean Ancient Martial Arts, 6th Form, Sipjin.

Smash!!!

Taehyun's fist slammed into Yormungandr's head.

Ding.

[Quest 'Yormungandr's Magic Stone' progress rate - 10%]

Taehyun's lips also curled up at the rapidly increasing progress rate.

[That's not enough.]

For a moment, the Mana Sea surrounded Yormungandr's crushed face.

His face was completely regenerated.

[Didn't you say that you can't kill me with the power of an archduke?]

Gurgle.

The Mana Sea spewed out from Yormungandr's body surrounded Taehyun.

"Oh, really?"

Taehyun watched the movement of the Mana Sea and used the next skill.

Ding.

[Skill Devil's Saliva (SS) has been activated.]

[Skill Devil's Saliva (SS) has been enhanced. Magic power consumption is accelerated.]

Sizzle. Sizzle.

The purple magic power touched the Mana Sea that Yormungandr was spewing out.

Surprisingly, instead of sparks, it was naturally mixing into the Mana Sea.

In an instant, Yormungandr's skin turned purple.

It had caused a poisoning effect on the body of an archduke.

Ding.

[Quest 'Yormungandr's Magic Stone' progress rate - 15%]

Taehyun smiled at the messages that appeared.

Unlike Yormungandr's bold claims.

The blue color was mixed with purple, and the Mana Sea was becoming turbid.

"An archduke is a cheat."

[......]

"How pathetic."

Staring directly at the silent Yormungandr.

Taehyun said mockingly.

Episode 259

The most recent Archduke power acquired.

Skill: 'Demon's Saliva'.

Beelzebub's purple magic mixed into Jormungandr's blue sea of mana.

It was a natural phenomenon, without any sparks created from the magic colliding.

[This is astonishing.]

Jormungandr murmured, holding up his hand, which was stained purple.

There's a limit to the power an Archduke contractor can use with a human body.

Some contractors abandon their humanity and choose the path of monsters.

But even the power they gain that way has its limits.

Especially Beelzebub, who has been on the Archduke's throne for a long time, has complex authority.

But the key before his eyes.

The human named Kim Tae-hyun was using the powers of several Archdukes quite plausibly.

He was strengthening his body with Orgal's brown mana, absorbing the surrounding sea of mana with Igmun's crimson mana, and now he was polluting his own sea of mana with Beelzebub's poisonous mana.

Jormungandr chuckled involuntarily as he watched the purple magic rising up to his neck.

[To put this sovereign in such a state is a praiseworthy feat.]

Sizzle. Sizzle.

Unlike Jormungandr's composure, his flesh began to rot.

He had minimized his mana to stay on Earth.

But he still possessed a strong body, comparable to an SSS-grade monster.

The fact that Tae-hyun's power was damaging that body meant that it was comparable to their top-tier subordinates.

[Huhu. He must have plundered it with the King's power.]

Jormungandr smiled, guessing the reason.

He was using the incompatible mana of the Archdukes as if it were his own from the start.

Enough to shock an Archduke like himself.

[This sovereign made one mistake.]

Even with the special nature of being a key.

He was still just a human.

He thought his sea of mana would change his mind.

If it were another contractor here instead of Kim Tae-hyun, they wouldn't have been able to break through the barrier on the outside, let alone the sea of mana.

But indeed.

Kim Tae-hyun was different.

He not only broke through the barrier but also shattered the sea of mana, and was now steadily damaging his body.

The law of the Abyss.

The price for forcibly entering Earth.

Although the sanctions were strengthened and the body became no better than a bug, it was an interesting ability.

He showed potential to covet this body if he made the wrong move.

Further composure was dangerous.

Attacks that wouldn't work in the Abyss could lead to fatal injuries.

[It was worth the search.]

Jormungandr said, unconcerned about his decaying body.

"Always so relaxed."

Tae-hyun said, glancing at the rising message.

[Quest 'Jormungandr's Magic Stone' Progress Rate - 18%]

The percentage of the quest was steadily increasing.

Without a doubt, 'Demon's Saliva' was the most damaging attack he had allowed so far.

So.

'The more damage I inflict, the higher the quest's progress rate rises.'

It was a plausible hypothesis.

'What if I use Devour to eat him?'

Would the quest be completed immediately if he succeeded?

Or would the quest simply disappear?

Such questions surged.

Devour had often failed to work since he met the Archduke-level beings.

But it was worth trying.

'Either way, he can't catch me in his current state.'

He thought, about to use Devour, when.

Ting.

[Skill 'Superior Species' Eyes (SS)' Proficiency has increased.]

[Skill 'Superior Species' Heart (SS)' Proficiency has increased.]

[Skill 'Superior Species' Eyes (SS)' has synchronized with 'Superior Species' Heart (SS).]

[Skill 'Superior Species' Eyes (SS)' Trait 'Insight' is enhanced.]

"……!!"

Tae-hyun's body twitched at the series of messages that appeared.

This hadn't happened when he tested 'Superior Species' Heart' before.

'Is it the influence of proficiency?'

Since the opponent was who they were.

The lacking proficiency seemed to have been filled, awakening the additional effects.

Tae-hyun looked at Jormungandr.

It was different from before.

The flow of mana, which he couldn't completely penetrate even with 'Superior Species' Eyes', was vividly visible.

'If so….'

Ting.

[Unique Skill Devour (SS) has been activated.]

Thuuuuuuuuuum.

Crimson-black mana formed a circle beneath Tae-hyun's feet.

[Hooh. Are you finally going to use it?]

"……."

Unlike Jormungandr's interest.

Tae-hyun didn't immediately specify a target for Devour.

Because he could see it.

That the seemingly calm blue mana of his had begun to boil when he used Devour.

A subtle boiling that was difficult to feel with just his senses.

And that mana.

'It has the power to nullify Devour.'

Tae-hyun's expression hardened.

He felt like he knew the reason for the confidence he had shown in telling him to use Devour.

If Devour failed, it would take a considerable amount of time to recover from the cooldown.

'The cooldown of Apocalypse, which was canceled in the sea of mana, hasn't returned yet….'

Ting.

[Skill 'Superior Species' Heart (SS)' Additional Effect 'Canceler' has been activated.]

[Skill Apocalypse (SS)' Cooldown has been lifted. 200 mana has been consumed.]

"Ha."

He couldn't help but laugh at the continuous messages that popped up.

It was as if the status window itself was thinking and supporting its owner.

Noname's will residing in Tae-hyun's status window.

He knew about it from Kim Jong-ho.

'But it's still unsettling to experience it firsthand.'

Because Tae-hyun had always fought alone.

It was natural for him to feel unfamiliar with the current situation.

But now.

'I should definitely use it.'

Tae-hyun used 'Energy Drain' instead of suppressing the mana of Devour.

His mana was completely replenished just by absorbing a little of the overflowing sea of mana around him.

Jormungandr, who had been watching silently, tilted his head.

It was because Tae-hyun was acting like he was about to use the King's power, but suddenly canceled the skill.

It felt like the boiling excitement was cooling down.

[Why are you doing this? I'll wait for you, so try using it again.]

Those words sounded like the voice of a snake to Tae-hyun.

It was obvious that he would aim for the moment when the skill was canceled.

In a short moment, Tae-hyun's mind raced.

The quest's progress rate also represents the damage inflicted on him.

And if 'Superior Species' Eyes' and 'Superior Species' Heart' were activated.

'I can pinpoint the right time to use Devour.'

He finally grasped how to best utilize the new status window.

It felt like the weakness of Devour, which didn't work against SSS-grade or higher beings or Archdukes, had been filled.

[What are you thinking in front of this sovereign?]

The moment it seemed like mana was gathering in Jormungandr's red eyes.

Thwack.

One of Tae-hyun's arms flew off.

It was a light warning.

That if he didn't use the King's power, he would blow his head off next time.

Crack. Crack. Crack.

Regenerating didn't mean there was no pain.

Nevertheless, Tae-hyun's face was smiling.

"Jormungandr. I've changed my mind."

[……?]

"I should hang out with you a little longer."

Ting.

[Skill Energy Drain (SS) has been enhanced. Fatigue is accelerated.]

[Skill Apocalypse (SS) has been activated. Targeting the target.]

Kugugugung.

A massive gravity pressed down on Jormungandr's body.

[You're finally making this sovereign angry.]

Jormungandr's voice sank like that of the abyss.

The odd eyes also showed annoyance, not interest.

The King's power he was expecting.

It was because the skill he used instead of 'Devour' was Apocalypse.

Hadn't this skill been easily torn apart in the sea of mana a little while ago?

He was looking down on him because he had adjusted his power.

That's what he couldn't help but think.

The moment Jormungandr's other eye was about to flash.

Ting.

[Skill Apocalypse (SS) has been enhanced. Mana consumption is accelerated.]

[Skill Dragon's Wrath (SS) has been activated.]

Krrr!!

The formless aura emitted from Tae-hyun pressed down on Jormungandr's body.

[…….]

It was only for a moment.

But Jormungandr's body froze.

In that gap, chains wrapped around his body.

'Apocalypse'. 'Chains of Binding'. 'Dragon's Wrath'.

Jormungandr sighed softly as the skills he had expected were unfolded one after another.

Above all, the 'Demon's Saliva' that Tae-hyun had used was gnawing at his body every moment.

Not to the point where he couldn't endure it.

[It won't fill my wait if I just stand here and take it.]

"Don't misunderstand. It's not you I'm testing… it's me."

Tzzzzzzz.

The mana absorbed by Energy Drain enhanced the skills.

The power of the skills that bound Jormungandr increased dramatically.

Who would dare to be so confident in front of an Archduke?

[…….]

Jormungandr was speechless at the unexpected attitude.

All of this.

Was happening when the quest progress rate was exceeding 25 percent.

It didn't take long for Jormungandr to collect his emotions.

[Disappointing. Despite this sovereign giving you a chance, you show such an attitude.]

Even though his voice was mixed with anger.

"You're awfully stiff till the end."

Tae-hyun mocked, maintaining 'Energy Drain' and 'Apocalypse'.

[Since you don't understand when I speak nicely. I have no choice but to treat you somewhat roughly.]

Krrrrrrr.

The sea of mana boiling inside Jormungandr exploded in all directions.

The Apocalypse, which had been submerged in water, began to shake.

Tae-hyun had finally changed his attitude when he didn't use Devour.

"You're finally acting like a monster. Don't worry. I'm going to eat that power anyway."

Kwaaaaaaa.

Tae-hyun unleashed all of his remaining mana.

It was a battle of domain against domain.

To gain an advantage in this battle.

'I need more stats.'

Ting.

[Skill Blood Rampage (SS) has been enhanced. Mana consumption is accelerated.]

[Fatigue is accelerated.]

Pazijijijik.

Crimson mana was mixed with blood-red mana.

The sea of mana, which seemed to swallow everything, stopped moving in front of Apocalypse.

It had finally become mana similar to Jormungandr's.

[It's a futile resistance.]

Pazzzzzzzit.

The mana boiling in Jormungandr's body scattered.

Sparks flew, and the space of Apocalypse rippled.

"……!!"

The sea of mana touched Tae-hyun's feet.

It had infiltrated Apocalypse before he knew it and finally made contact.

[You can't reach this sovereign with that imitation of authority.]

Crack. Crack. Crack.

Jormungandr, who had broken all the chains of binding, walked towards Tae-hyun.

Each time, cracks appeared in Apocalypse.

Tae-hyun's eyebrows twitched.

[I'll show you the real thing.]

Pazzzzzzzz.

The mana of Jormungandr visible to Tae-hyun's eyes became even more massive.

'This is…. Blood Rampage?'

Not to mention that the sea of mana was swirling everywhere.

The mana he felt, the mana he saw was at least.

'All stats 600…!!'

[I'll show you. The true sea of mana.]

Hwaaaaaaaaaa.

The sea of mana raged.

Kwareureureu.

Once again, 'Apocalypse' was canceled.

There was no longer Tae-hyun's field there, and all that surrounded the two beings was the massive sea of mana.

The scenery created by the sea of mana was the deepest part of the Abyss.

[Welcome to this sovereign's world. Key.]

Ting.

[Quest 'Jormungandr's Magic Stone' Rank has been specified as SSS.]

[Quest 'Jormungandr's Magic Stone' Progress Rate - 35%]

Watching the rising message.

"Crazy…."

Tae-hyun cursed involuntarily.

260

Shinkai Jun, the chairman of the Japanese Player Association.

A relatively young age of 40.

And a career of having just become an S-rank player.

In the past, there would have been many criticisms that he was not qualified to take on the important role of chairman.

However, the handling of the un-cleared dungeon break was a major failure.

And the numerous sacrifices awakened the people who had turned their backs on politics.

They realized that the policies of the Player Association, who was at the top of it, and the skills of the members were all directly related to their survival.

Change began.

Unlike New Korea.

The Japanese Player Association was closely connected to the political world.

'It was worse than cronyism.'

Shinkai Jun recalled the association at that time.

The collusion between politics and the association.

The beginning may have been good, but the end was bound to stagnate and rot.

Was that why?

People wanted a new face to replace the deceased Chairman Kubota.

An innovative person who was not connected to the political world and could perform the duties of chairman.

'Just a moron like me.'

He couldn't help but have a bitter expression.

He had been working smoothly as an A-rank player in the Player Association and became an S-rank.

Not everyone who becomes an S-rank becomes a star player.

It was a life reminiscent of being a government official, and he became the chairman as if pushed by the flow of the times.

But that didn't mean he lacked ability.

He was a player who understood the problems of the association better than anyone else.

First of all.

'I cut off the connection with the political world.'

After that, he looked around.

Numerous neighboring countries.

Among them, only two countries were worth referencing for Japan.

New Korea and China.

However, China is a country that has grown with capital from its huge population.

And by pushing policies with the power of the Party, which is above the law.

Is that all?

Recently, the world's attention has been unfavorable as the experiments of turning into monsters, the mastermind behind the Grey Disease, and the relationship with the Mages have been re-examined.

There were many ways in which it did not suit Japan, which was dreaming of a new leap forward.

To be reborn as a new association.

'I needed an association that had taken a slightly more correct path.'

That was the New Korean Player Association.

A country that had been gradually building up its internal affairs since the current chairman Ji Jin-hee, and had recently blossomed.

He imitated the path Ji Jin-hee had taken.

To allow the Player Association to conduct independent activities.

He announced that he would not take any political moves except for the player's original duties.

The response was not bad.

Several countries reached out to Japan.

The representative countries were the United States and China.

The United States promised to send troops to check China, and China reached out with promises of economic assistance.

Without hesitation, he took their hands.

In return, a considerable number of players were dispatched throughout Japan.

More frequent gate breaks and Mage terrorism.

'In the previous break, the Sword Demon, who could be said to be the highest power, died, and many skilled players were also reduced.'

It was the worst of the last few decades.

It was fortunate that the Saint, who had belatedly come to her senses, was doing her part.

There were also criminal acts by players dispatched from the United States and China.

'Considering the monsters and Mages they would face. It was definitely not bad efficiency.'

10 years from now.

If we bow our heads and build strength for 10 years, we can catch up with New Korea.

'That's what I thought...'

Shinkai Jun sighed.

The worst thing he had feared had finally happened.

A gate break that the Saint could not solve.

An SS+ rank break had occurred.

Everything had become meaningless with the incident in Fukuoka.

The magic power currently being measured was SS+ rank.

But its range and power were unusual.

Experts are reporting a greater than 50% chance that the break rank will be upgraded due to an unexpected variable.

In short, Japan, which he had devoted everything to revive.

Had become the stage for the world's first SSS-rank monster to appear.

"Damn government."

Damn allies.

He muttered a small curse.

The first place the Japanese government, including the Player Association, had requested an alliance from was the United States.

The request was to dispatch the renowned SS-rank players.

Cody Cruise and Montel Jackson, and Sarah Collins.

They even promised to pay a large sum of money.

Even so.

The American Association refused to send them.

The reason was that they were tied up due to the terrorist attack by Harsultan and the Grey Disease.

The same was true of China.

They, who had said they would help at any time, suddenly closed their mouths.

Belatedly, the World Player Association circulated an official letter to form a capture team, but the speed was too slow.

By the time they reached Fukuoka.

'Japan will have suffered irreversible damage.'

Despair consumed his mind.

Himself, Japan, and the Japanese people.

He thought it was the end.

Hope arose from an unexpected place.

The Saint revealed that she had belatedly received support from Kim Tae-hyun.

It came with the condition that it would be a week later.

Fortunately, the monsters in Fukuoka had not moved for some reason.

He was sure where he should bow his head in the future.

'The relationship with New Korea is the only way for Japan to survive.'

He had to bribe the Prime Minister and grant whatever he asked, just like Kim Tae-hyun said.

'No matter what, I have to make Kim Tae-hyun favorable to Japan. Even if it means the Saint...'

He was thinking that.

When the adjutant approached with a stiff expression.

"Chairman. The connection to Kim Tae-hyun and Ms. Tsurara. The connection to the two people has been cut off."

It meant that the magic power reaction of the two people, which had been faintly captured until just now, had completely disappeared.

'Could they be dead?'

No, that can't be.

The Saint has the skill 'Super High-Speed Regeneration'.

And Kim Tae-hyun has power that cannot be compared to that Saint.

If they were dead, it would mean that no one could stop this gate break.

Then.

"Ch, Chairman... The magic power level in Fukuoka...!!"

"Speak clearly."

Shinkai Jun commanded in a cold voice.

"The magic power of the barrier surrounding Fukuoka... is rapidly increasing..."

"……!!"

"The gate break in Fukuoka. As of now, it has been changed to SSS rank."

"Eventually..."

Now, Kim Tae-hyun is the only one left.

He was about to pray that Tae-hyun could withstand the SSS-rank monster.

Another player shouted.

"Chairman!! The appearance of Fukuoka is captured on the satellite!!"

Before he could give the order, a blurry screen appeared.

All of Fukuoka was surrounded by blue magic power.

The problem was that the movement of the magic power was constantly moving.

Like an angry sea.

"Wh, what is this..."

"Fukuoka... has become abyssal..."

At the subordinate's words.

Thud.

Shinkai Jun collapsed in his seat.

Sighs erupted from all over the command room.

At that time.

New Korean Player Association Operations Command Room.

Go Tae-wook was grasping the situation as the acting chairman of the association.

"Fukuoka. Has become abyssal."

"The thing we were worried about has happened."

It was a part that had been raised as a possibility due to the intrusion of the shadow.

And now.

That possibility has been verified in Fukuoka.

It was also the moment when it was certain that all the residents of the area had died.

"What about Player Kim Tae-hyun's signal?"

"It is currently difficult to confirm due to the barrier."

"Connect me as soon as the signal is detected."

"Understood."

'If it's Tae-hyun... he'll be fine.'

He's already entering the depths as if it's his own home.

Besides, he said he caught an SSS-rank monster in the deepest part, so I wasn't too worried.

'The problem is over here.'

At the same time as he thought that, another subordinate found Go Tae-wook.

His expression was unusual.

"It's an attack. Unspecified warp gates are opening near the Player Association."

"They've finally come."

Go Tae-wook gritted his teeth.

They had cleverly weakened only the area near the association headquarters by using a magic power disrupting device.

So that they could enter more easily than other places.

And now.

There were guys who had bitten that bait.

"Identification?"

"It is expected to be Harsultan."

"We caught them properly."

The corners of Go Tae-wook's mouth went up as he gritted his teeth.

"What is the location of the VIPs?"

"They are all guarding the infiltration route."

"Good."

It was different from the previous attack.

Starting with the awakened Yoo Ah-young, Im Ah-young, Ji Jin-hee, Park Seong-jin, Kwak Si-yang, Kwon Kang-hyeok.

This time, there were six people who could be called SS-rank players in New Korea waiting.

"Let's have a good fight once. You damn Mages."

Go Tae-wook said as if growling.

Of course.

This time, it was their turn to hunt the Mages.

Tae-hyun bit his teeth.

As soon as the concentration of the sea of ​​magic became thicker, Fukuoka suddenly became abyssal.

Even the deepest part.

The magic power felt from Jörmungandr was no longer an ambiguous SS+ rank.

A definite SSS rank.

Also, a more powerful presence was felt than any SSS rank monster he had ever met.

Including Igmun and Rosaria, who had been summoned to Earth in the past.

'The law of the abyss is like this...'

[You seem surprised. Were you expecting the law of the abyss?]

"……."

[This seat is an existence that can even deceive that law.]

"……!!"

Sparks flew from Jörmungandr's body as he said that.

It meant that the guy was going to use a big technique.

[The price is your life.]

One of Jörmungandr's odd eyes.

The red eye flashed.

Kwaang!!!

Tae-hyun's body, which had been strengthened with all his might, exploded as it was.

He swallowed a scream for a moment.

Ting.

[Quest 'Jörmungandr's Magic Stone' progress rate - 45%]

As if it were a fun game.

No-Name's voice informed him of the progress rate of the quest.

Quadeuk. Quadeuk.

Tae-hyun's body began to regenerate quickly.

First, his arms and legs were regenerated.

It was the effect of 'Blood Frenzy' enhanced with the 'Heart of the Superior Species'.

[That's not a true frenzy.]

Jörmungandr laughed at Tae-hyun's skill and took a step.

Puhung!!!

Once again, Tae-hyun's body exploded.

Tae-hyun's skill 'Blood Frenzy' obtained from Igmun.

In fact, its origin was from Jörmungandr.

Recalling the time when Igmun faced Jörmungandr, it was nothing more than imitating it by using his authority.

From Jörmungandr's point of view, the 'Blood Frenzy' that Tae-hyun was using was ridiculous.

[Surrender.]

One step.

[Bow your head and dedicate that body to this seat.]

Another step.

[Then you will find rest.]

Jörmungandr looked down at Tae-hyun.

Tae-hyun staggered and raised his body.

"Crazy bastard."

[You're slow to grasp the situation.]

Puhung.

Tae-hyun's half body exploded.

Quaddeu.

Regeneration was repeated.

A message that came to mind was seen.

Only then could he breathe out.

"It's you who's slow to grasp the situation?"

[Quest 'Jörmungandr's Magic Stone' progress rate - 55%]

Tae-hyun is the one who is being attacked and taking damage.

Even so, the progress rate of the quest is increasing.

In other words, just by Jörmungandr maintaining his current state.

'He's taking damage.'

'He must not have completely avoided the law of the abyss.'

Just by enduring.

'I can win.'

The moment the progress rate increased would be an opportunity.

To devour him.

[You have good eyes.]

Jörmungandr praised Tae-hyun's discernment.

He could see Tae-hyun strengthening his skills and body.

He was trying to endure his attacks and look for an opportunity.

The more he faced him, the more he admired him.

On the other hand, he couldn't help but scoff.

At this ignorant appearance.

[It's a foolish idea. This seat's authority is frenzy.]

Jörmungandr's other odd eye flashed.

[That's not just for this seat.]

At the same time.

Ting.

[A huge magic power dominates.]

[The grade is temporarily readjusted.]

[The awakening grade has become SSS.]

[Skill Blood Frenzy (SS) has been strengthened.]

[Skill Beast Transformation (SS) has been strengthened.]

[Skill Devil's Saliva (SS) has been strengthened.]

[Skill Eye of the Superior Species (SS) has been strengthened.]

[Skill Heart of the Superior Species (SS) has been strengthened.]

[The collapse of the body begins.]

[Quest 'Jörmungandr's Magic Stone' progress rate - 65%]

Tae-hyun's body, unable to withstand the huge power, began to explode.

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