RKP 261-270

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Episode 261

Authority.

The unique power symbolizing a Grand Duke.

Among them, Jormungandr's authority is Rampage.

Rampage amplifies power but,

when it reaches a certain level, it can also deceive the source of power.

This is why he can hide his presence unlike other Grand Dukes and does not make contracts.

To high-ranking demons, humans are like insects.

Of course, the perspective of a Grand Duke, who surpasses the highest ranks, on humans is obvious.

Insects or food.

He hadn't found a reason to take the risk of using his power on humans.

The war for territory among the Grand Dukes began again.

Kim Tae-hyun, Rosaria's contractor, who was the starting point.

If he hadn't heard about him, he never would have.

He would never have taken interest in humans.

Jormungandr laughed heartily in front of Tae-hyun.

[Maelstrom and Rampage. Now that you've personally experienced my power, do you think differently?]

Tae-hyun hugged himself without answering.

To control the reversing magic.

Although weakened by the laws of the Abyss.

Jormungandr could still force Rampage on himself and any target he desired.

Tremble. Tremble. Tremble.

The key to obtaining uncontrollable power.

Kim Tae-hyun's body was shaking violently.

Rampage comes with great power and risk.

When using power that cannot be controlled.

Not only physical collapse but also mental collapse follows.

In that regard, Tae-hyun was holding up quite well.

Jormungandr's heterochromatic eyes reflected the figure of a being that could no longer be called an insect.

[Even the most skilled underlings will self-destruct. You're quite something.]

Jormungandr's heterochromatic eyes twinkled once more.

He had strengthened the power of Rampage.

Boom.

Tae-hyun's arms and legs exploded.

'Blood Rampage' was activated, and ultra-fast regeneration began.

[Good. It would be a problem if you broke down too easily.]

Jormungandr, who was watching, smiled bitterly.

To think he would even use his authority here.

Now he understood the disgraceful behavior of the other Grand Dukes in the Abyss.

[Didn't you say you would devour my power?]

Tae-hyun couldn't say anything in response to Jormungandr's taunts.

He was just busy controlling his exploding body and reversing magic.

[Why did the King give power to such an insect?]

Unlike before, there was even a hint of anger in his voice.

[Prove it with that body.]

Boom!!

Tae-hyun's legs exploded simultaneously.

[Show me the value of the key.]

Boom. Boom. Boom.

'That snake bastard…'

Tae-hyun clenched his teeth.

It was a familiar situation.

His body exploding from uncontrollable power and somehow holding on with skills.

The only difference was.

That the cause was his skills and that it was too urgent.

The situation was too bad to just understand and move on as authority.

'At this rate, I'll self-destruct.'

Tae-hyun opened the status window.

'Beast Transformation', 'Eyes of a High-Ranking Species', 'Heart of a High-Ranking Species', 'Blood Rampage', 'Demon's Saliva', and 'Energy Drain' were going berserk.

'Energy Drain' was constantly absorbing Jormungandr's Maelstrom to prevent his magic power from running out.

Unless Tae-hyun died.

Or unless Jormungandr showed some generosity.

'Rampage won't stop.'

Will the body collapse first?

Will the mental strength be exhausted first?

Either way.

'It's the worst.'

While Tae-hyun was looking for a way to escape.

Jormungandr could see Tae-hyun's psychology.

[You don't even have the余裕to answer my question?]

He looked at Tae-hyun being helplessly manipulated and moved his body.

Because he thought there was only one choice left.

[Either submit to me.]

[Or make a last-ditch effort with the King's power.]

[It's time to decide.]

Jormungandr's every word seemed to echo in his head.

Boom.

Tae-hyun's exploded red eyes quickly regenerated.

The power of the demons that he had obtained despite being a human.

The Eyes of a High-Ranking Species.

Tae-hyun was glaring at him with those red eyes.

Even though his face was horribly distorted by pain.

[Oh.]

Jormungandr was slightly impressed.

He was glaring, but his eyes were not dead.

He could see what Tae-hyun had decided.

Jormungandr took a step towards Tae-hyun.

Tae-hyun's red eyes stared directly into Jormungandr's heterochromatic eyes.

[I see. Can you see it in those eyes?]

Jormungandr gestured, and the Maelstrom that was boiling in his body disappeared.

And what was revealed was a battered body.

[You're going to hold out, aren't you? Until the laws of the Abyss completely obliterate my existence.]

"......"

[But before that. Your spirit will collapse first.]

As if delivering a death sentence.

It was a confident tone.

The corners of Jormungandr's mouth turned up.

[Use the King's power. That's the only way to survive.]

The authority of Rampage was further strengthened.

Crack!!

Tae-hyun stared at his newly regenerated right arm.

Regenerated with blood-red magic, it was no longer human.

The legs that had already been regenerated were the same.

The right leg, regenerated with purple magic, belonged to a demon, and the left leg, regenerated with brown magic, belonged to a magical beast.

And just now.

Boom!!

His left arm exploded and was regenerated with something new.

It was a phenomenon caused by Tae-hyun's inability to fully control his magic.

'This is driving me crazy.'

The pain of his whole body exploding and the constant voice of the Nameless in his ear.

It would be strange to be able to stay sane in this situation.

Ding.

[A huge amount of magic dominates.]

[Skill ranks are temporarily readjusted. It has become SSS rank.]

[Skill Blood Rampage (SSS) has been strengthened to its limit.]

[Skill Beast Transformation (SSS) has been strengthened to its limit.]

[Skill Demon's Saliva (SSS) has been strengthened to its limit.]

[Skill Eyes of a High-Ranking Species (SSS) has been strengthened to its limit.]

[Skill Heart of a High-Ranking Species (SSS) has been strengthened to its limit.]

[Physical collapse is accelerated.]

[Mental fatigue is accelerated.]

Normally, he would be happy that the grade had increased.

In the current situation, there were only bad messages.

The only positive part was.

[Quest 'Jormungandr's Magic Stone' progress rate - 75%]

The progress rate of the quest was increasing rapidly.

Boom!!

The exploded red eyes were newly regenerated.

Just as his vision was cut off for a moment.

Jormungandr was already right in front of him.

Was it because of the increased rank?

He could see the truths that Jormungandr had been hiding.

Ragged.

The body of the guy surrounded by the Maelstrom was rotting away.

It wasn't just because of 'Demon's Saliva'.

'The laws of the Abyss… have been strengthened!!'

Maelstrom and Rampage.

Even though he had lowered it with SSS-rank magic power.

There was no way there would be no risk from using authority.

'This… if I hold on, it's my victory.'

If he just held on.

Jormungandr would disappear and the quest would be completed.

Of course, the problem was holding on.

Boom!!

Once again, the red eyes exploded.

Now, explosions were continuing not only on his body but also above his neck.

Even if he endured the pain.

'There's a high chance that it will regenerate even if my head explodes.'

His current body was more than that of a high-ranking demon.

He could put his hope in that.

But he didn't want to.

Because he knew that all that would be left after enduring that way was a terrible sense of defeat.

'That's just… running away.'

There's no point in getting his body back.

'That guy would have been different.'

With that overwhelming power, he might have endured this level of authority with a snort.

'Shall I borrow your power?'

It felt like he could hear the guy's mocking voice.

'Get lost.'

Tae-hyun shook his head and spat.

The blood mixed in the saliva was dark red and purplish.

At that time.

Jormungandr's red eyes, which had come right in front of him, flashed.

The guy opened his mouth.

[I see. Can you see it in those eyes?]

When he gestured, the Maelstrom that was boiling in his body disappeared.

And what he had been hiding.

His battered body was revealed.

[You were going to hold out, weren't you? Until the laws of the Abyss completely obliterate my existence.]

Tae-hyun didn't affirm or deny it.

Because he felt like he was being played by the guy if he showed any reaction here.

"......"

[But before that, your spirit will collapse first.]

That's not wrong.

Because he was really at his limit now.

[This is the last one. Use the King's power.]

Bluish magic gathered in his hand.

He could feel an irresistible power.

He could tell instinctively.

'If I get hit. It's over.'

Ding.

[Unique Skill Devour (SS) has been activated.]

Kwaaaaaa.

Dark red magic soared from Tae-hyun's body.

[Quest 'Jormungandr's Magic Stone' progress rate - 85%]

It was clearly visible through the rampaging 'Eyes of a High-Ranking Species'.

The guy still had power to spare.

If he used Devour on the guy now, he wouldn't be able to swallow him completely.

If Devour failed.

'I have no cards left.'

The guy must be urging him to use Devour under that assumption.

But now it was really.

'It's the limit.'

10 seconds.

If this Rampage didn't stop, his body or spirit would be destroyed in 10 seconds.

"If you want it that much."

Crunch.

Tae-hyun bit down on his teeth.

Jormungandr opened his arms.

[Yes. That's it.]

He looked like a believer ready to be baptized.

'Let me introduce you to a monster.'

Ignoring the magic of Devour that was trying to run wild belatedly.

Tae-hyun used a new skill.

Ding.

[Skill Ataraxia (SS) has been activated. Specifying target.]

[Skill Ataraxia (SS) has been strengthened. Magic consumption is accelerated.]

[Skill rank is readjusted.]

[Skill Ataraxia (SSS) has been strengthened to its limit.]

"You're going to regret it. King of the Maelstrom."

Tae-hyun spat out as if chewing.

Hwaaaak.

The purple magic contained in his red eyes went berserk.

With Jormungandr's heterochromatic eyes twitching as the last thing.

[Quest 'Jormungandr's Magic Stone' progress rate - 93%]

It felt like he heard that kind of sound.

[Disappointing. Such a choice.]

Jormungandr said as if savoring the inner world contained in his heterochromatic eyes.

In the end, what Tae-hyun used until the end was not the King's power.

What he chose was Rosaria's power.

He had bet on him with that rampaging power.

[Puh… Puhuhuhu….]

Jormungandr laughed more frivolously than ever before.

Whether it was pride or potential.

Kim Tae-hyun's choice was a clear bad move.

The restrictions of the Abyss that had been acting on his body had disappeared.

He wasn't recovering, but he wasn't breaking down anymore like he was on Earth.

Even with the remaining power.

There was no problem in taking over the inner world.

The inner world was Tae-hyun's best attack and at the same time.

It was Jormungandr's best refuge.

[If you want it that much, I'll invade this place first.]

Krrrr.

Blue magic boiled in Jormungandr's body.

He was going to fill this place with the Maelstrom and swallow Tae-hyun's mind.

After that, he would extract the magic power of the Grand Dukes that had taken root in the guy's body.

He was going to fill it with his Maelstrom.

If he did that, it would be only a matter of time before he became his contractor.

While he was spreading his magic, anticipating a luscious fruit.

"It's not even surprising anymore."

His heterochromatic eyes twinkled at the voice he heard in the distance.

He could tell at once.

That although he had Kim Tae-hyun's appearance, he was an existence that was incomparable to him.

[What are you?]

"The guy who came in this time. He has interesting eyeballs."

As if he wasn't interested in Jormungandr's question.

The doppelganger muttered, flashing his red eyes.

[......]

Jormungandr's body twitched.

Because he realized that he was being ignored.

[Am I not asking you? I asked what you are.]

"Is there any need to know? You're going to be eaten anyway."

Kwaaaa.

Dark red magic soared from the doppelganger's body.

[Oh. Could it be that you….]

Joy appeared on Jormungandr's face for a moment.

His face hardened at the increasingly growing magic power.

Crack.

Jormungandr looked down at his feet.

[……!!]

Without even realizing it.

A huge mouth that could swallow the Maelstrom was open.

"Still, the eyeballs will be good to chew on."

The doppelganger smiled bitterly and clenched his fist.

Crack.

A Devour of a size he had never seen before.

Crunch.

Swallowed Jormungandr.

262

At that moment, Taehyun was fighting Jormungandr.

Fizz. Sizzle.

Following the advance party of fiends, Kasim Zolt crossed the gate.

Sparks flew in all directions.

It was because he had forced his way through the gate, which Shinhan had blocked.

Warp gate zone near the Shinhan Player Association.

It was instantaneous.

Hundreds of fiends from Harsultan had gathered.

"Disperse."

Kasim Zolt ordered in a low voice.

"Divine punishment to the sinner."

"Death to the degenerate."

The fiends scattered quickly, each chanting their own spells.

The same was true for Berto and his five disciples.

Top-tier S-class fiends who could only be dealt with by top-tier S-class players.

They would command the fiends, devastate the area, and scatter much blood.

However, they had no intention of annihilating the association with this attack.

The goal of this attack was to identify the identities of those who would become sacrifices in the future.

Of course, the reason for the attack was due to Kasim's whim about Taehyun, who had dared to leave his post.

So there was no need to overdo it.

As before.

'Heh heh heh. All we have to do is have some fun and go back.'

It would be ideal if an enraged Kim Taehyun came looking for him.

With all of Harsultan's fiends scattered, only Kasim Zolt remained.

He walked towards the Player Association building in front of him.

It was when he reached the front gate of the association.

"Amazing."

Kasim Zolt muttered, looking at the firmly closed front gate.

No one had stopped him from reaching this point.

As a result, he could be sure of what strategy Shinhan had chosen.

"Heh heh. Should I say it's clever? Or reckless?"

Kasim Zolt laughed lowly.

It was an overly calm laugh for someone who knew that they were prepared for his attack and that the warp gate they had interpreted was actually a trap.

"Show yourself."

Kasim Zolt raised his staff.

Purple mana was concentrated there.

It was a force that could blow away the association's front gate at any moment.

Then.

Beep.

The association's front gate opened and a woman appeared.

"Heh heh. Still a beautiful face."

It was the Shinhan player who had defeated him before.

Yoo Ah-young.

Kasim Zolt flashed his eyes with a gloomy smile.

She was the only one who had appeared.

"There seems to be someone with a brain in Shinhan."

Kasim Zolt praised Go Tae-wook.

He had accurately grasped where he would aim and sent Yoo Ah-young here to minimize the damage.

The risk would be that great.

If successful, it was the most effective deployment to minimize damage.

"......"

Yoo Ah-young did not answer.

Clang.

She bumped her two fists together.

With a metallic sound, the two rings she was wearing were activated.

Fizz. Sizzle.

Gauntlets materialized, realized with green mana.

It was the ability of the unique-grade item provided by the association.

Was that all?

Additional artifacts that Yoo Ah-young wore to protect her body were activated.

Fizzzzz. Fzzzt.

For a moment, green mana bloomed from her body.

She strengthened her body and lunged at Kasim Zolt.

It was the moment when her gauntlet seemed to touch Kasim Zolt's face.

Crack.

"......!!"

Kasim Zolt effortlessly caught Ah-young's fist.

"Hmm."

Kasim Zolt, who had been calm all along, wore a puzzled expression.

"Why don't you use that power?"

It was a question as if a teacher was advising his student.

Although he was called the worst fiend.

He had a gentle side to those who were selected as his research materials.

Just like he had done to Ji Jin-hee.

Yoo Ah-young was also a candidate for his sacrifice.

But Yoo Ah-young was using a power that was far less than her previous power.

The current power level was at best a top-tier S-class player.

Suitable as a sacrifice, but not enough to satisfy his interest.

"It's not enough."

Yoo Ah-young swung her other fist instead of answering.

Crack.

Kasim Zolt caught her fist once again.

Two pairs of eyes met.

"Hmm."

Crack.

Yoo Ah-young headbutted Kasim Zolt's face.

A streak of blood flowed from her forehead.

And.

"Ew. Creepy."

She opened her mouth for the first time.

She wiped the blood flowing from her forehead.

Kasim Zolt was known to be a magician type.

But not only did he catch her fist without any problem, but a single headbutt caused an impact on the body of a top-tier S-class player?

Gulp.

'He's terrifying as I've heard.'

The stat difference between an SS-class fiend and a player who had reached the end of S-class was felt anew.

"This is interesting."

Unlike Ah-young, Kasim Zolt was not shocked at all.

He flashed his red eyes and gave a sinister smile.

"It's not that you're not using it."

"......"

"It's that you can't use it."

Yoo Ah-young sighed at Kasim Zolt's words.

She had no intention of acting.

Because she was convinced that his ominous eyes had already seen through her.

"Tch. You really know me?"

She forced a smile.

She was smiling, but she wasn't really smiling.

It was just a bluff to avoid looking ridiculous.

"But what should I do? I'm the type of person who doesn't remember such creepy faces."

It was not a lie.

She had vague memories of the time immediately after escaping from the Tartarus Maze.

She had only heard that as soon as she woke up, she fought off Kasim Zolt, crossed over to Japan, and was dragged by Taehyun.

It was also Go Tae-wook's judgment that she would face Kasim Zolt alone this time.

'How am I supposed to face such a monster alone!'

Ji Jin-hee, Park Sung-jin, Kwon Kang-hyuk, Kwak Si-yang, Im Ah-young.

It was certain that they, who had been trained by Taehyun, had come out of the intensive care unit and grown into SS-class.

On the other hand, her stats were about top-tier S-class, which was inferior to them.

In that respect, Go Tae-wook was also doubtful, but the decision that she should take on Kasim Zolt did not change.

In the end, Ah-young questioned Go Tae-wook just before this operation began due to the incomprehensible judgment.

She asked if he was going to kill her.

The words Go Tae-wook said at that time were still vivid.

"I don't want to do this either... but it's Taehyun's idea."

"What... did you say?"

"Taehyun said that no one other than Guild Leader Yoo Ah-young should face Kasim Zolt. And don't include the five people who have grown this time."

"Why...?"

"I don't know either. Taehyun only said that if it's not Guild Leader Yoo Ah-young, no one else can handle him."

"......"

She was convinced that something had happened while her memories were not accurate.

As Go Tae-wook said, she had defeated Kasim Zolt before, as Jung Han-soo said, she had trampled on the saintess, and as Taehyun thought, only she could face that damn fiend.

The problem was that she herself did not know how to draw out that unknown power.

'I'm really going to die like this.'

Fuzzzezzzz.

The mana surrounding her body became stronger.

She made the skills go berserk.

And then.

Ting.

[Skill Amazoness's Ferocity (SS) has been activated. Target is specified.]

Boom!

Her skill was blocked by Kasim Zolt's barrier and exploded.

It was obvious that the skill would not work.

Because his creepy red eyes resembled Taehyun's.

He would surely see through her attacks.

'First, I need to buy time...'

Before she could finish thinking.

Crack.

"......!!"

Kasim Zolt's hand, which had approached her before she knew it, was piercing through her chest.

His eyes were red, and the hand that pierced through her chest had been demonized.

"Congratulations. You are the third sacrifice candidate as a Shinhan."

"Cough..."

Chiiiiiik. Chiiiiik.

Purple mana flowed in through the demonized hand.

Her resistance was useless.

The poisonous mana quickly began to devour the green mana.

The various unpleasant messages that appeared in front of her eyes were a bonus.

Yoo Ah-young's body wriggled with the instinct to survive.

"There's no need to resist. This is going easily."

He smirked.

Kasim Zolt raised the corners of his mouth.

He was disappointed that he could not experience the power at that time.

But he thought that it would not be bad to take the sacrifice candidates Ji Jin-hee and Yoo Ah-young to the hideout this time and start the research.

The poisonous mana of Beelzebub.

When even the color of Yoo Ah-young's face was changing due to that irresistible power.

The change happened suddenly.

"You're a gross man~"

Yoo Ah-young opened her mouth with a smirk.

"Hoo."

Kasim Zolt looked at her face.

The atmosphere had changed.

Of course, she had the same red eyes as him.

And behind her back.

A tentacle like a tail was wagging.

A tentacle made of purple mana.

A presence was felt from it that was comparable to his mana.

For example, the mana of a Grand Duke Contractor.

"Heh heh. This is not bad either."

Crackle.

Kasim Zolt twisted Yoo Ah-young's neck with his other hand.

A streak of blood flowed from her mouth.

It was a shock that an ordinary player with a human body should have died.

But as he was.

"It hurts~"

Ah-young smiled and raised her head,

Crack. Crackle.

She forcibly fixed the broken bones and licked her lips.

The sight was truly grotesque.

"Heh heh."

Poohk.

The tentacle from behind pierced through Kasim Zolt's body, who was laughing.

At the same time, the skill was activated.

Skill 'Dystopia'.

A field skill comparable to Taehyun's Apocalypse.

"Since it's come to this, entertain me a little more."

Kasim Zolt said, wriggling his body with excitement.

"No way~"

Yoo Ah-young stuck out her tongue while acting like an innocent girl.

Grand Duke Contractor Kasim Zolt.

Yoo Ah-young, who will become a Grand Duke Contractor in the future.

The second battle of the two monsters began.

Ting.

[Awakener grade is readjusted to SS.]

[Skill Blood Rampage (SS) has been deactivated.]

[Skill Beast Transformation (SS) has been deactivated.]

[Skill Eye of the Higher Species (SS) has been deactivated.]

[Skill Heart of the Higher Species (SS) has been deactivated.]

[Skill Devil's Saliva (SS) has been deactivated.]

[Strength, Stamina, Speed, and Mana stats decrease.]

Thud.

With a series of messages, Taehyun knelt on one knee.

The rampage of skills stopped from the moment 'Ataraxia' was successful on Jormungandr.

That state lasted for 5 seconds.

If he had endured just a little longer, his body and mind would have collapsed.

Taehyun looked at Jormungandr in front of him.

'The battle must have started by now.'

As Taehyun grew, his power was also getting stronger.

Now it was comparable to a Grand Duke.

If she was only as strong as when she fought Rosaria, she would not be inferior to Jormungandr.

'I don't think she'll lose...'

The problem was Taehyun's broken body and the fatigue that had reached its limit.

The potions and scrolls he had brought were long gone in the sea of demons.

Taehyun put his hand on Jormungandr's body.

He could feel his powerful mana just by doing that.

'Can I devour him now?'

No.

He couldn't even use Devour due to the fatigue that had reached its limit.

Taehyun used 'Energy Drain' to draw mana from his body.

Since 'Ataraxia' was still being maintained, it was necessary to fill the mana.

If the skill was canceled, Jormungandr might wake up.

He had to maintain 'Ataraxia' at all costs.

'Even if it's her, it should last about an hour...'

Taehyun was thinking that.

Ting.

[Quest 'Jormungandr's Magic Stone' Progress - 94…. 95…. 96…. 97…. 98…. 99….%]

[The quest has been completed.]

"......"

He was speechless at the message that had appeared much faster than he had expected.

263

Surprise was fleeting.

A new message appeared before Taehyun's eyes.

It indicated that his physical stats had increased.

Not surprising.

The Doppelganger had devoured him, so it was a natural result.

If anything, the increase was smaller compared to when he devoured Igmun's avatar.

That also meant Taehyun had reached a transcendent level.

'An SSS-rank gate appeared in just a year...'

Just before Taehyun regressed.

The one who held the top spot in the world rankings was none other than Cody Cruise.

'There was no information that he single-handedly stopped an SSS-rank break.'

In other words.

Taehyun had already surpassed Cody Cruise from his past life, or

Cody Cruise was hiding his power, or

One of the two.

'Well, it's probably the latter... Either way, explosive growth will be difficult now.'

Taehyun took a deep breath.

The stronger he became, the more he felt the weight.

A crushing pressure.

It was not easy to contain such great power within his body.

Just moments ago, several skills had been rampaging, almost causing his body to collapse.

'I should refrain from learning new skills for the time being.'

He needed to expand the vessel of his body a little more to match the strengthened skills.

The Authority of Rampage.

By far the worst compatibility among the Authorities Taehyun had faced so far.

'I need to raise the skill proficiency and control it more perfectly.'

Amassing quantitative growth in this state would make it difficult to properly resist Jormungandr.

Orgal. Igmun. Beelzebub. Jormungandr.

Taehyun had already faced four Archdukes.

'I need to prepare countermeasures against them as soon as possible.'

It was then that Taehyun thought so.

Just in time, the message he had been waiting for appeared.

Ding

[The quest reward has been confirmed.]

[Skill proficiency for Superior Species' Heart (SS) has increased.]

[The demonic power of Superior Species' Heart (SS) has changed.]

[Skill proficiency for Superior Species' Eye (SS) has increased.]

[Skill proficiency for Blood Frenzy (SS) has increased.]

[The demonic power of Summon Skill Jormungandr (SS) has changed.]

[Skill ??? (???) has been registered.]

[Registration of Skill ??? (???) has been canceled.]

"What is this."

Skill '???'.

It was the one that was another reward for the quest.

But even though he completed the quest, the registration was canceled.

'Did I not satisfy something?'

Naturally, such a thought could not help but arise.

Even Taehyun thought that the final finish was not smooth.

'It's better this way.'

Having a new skill in the current state could be poisonous.

"I thought it would be grand because it was a quest. There's nothing special."

Taehyun muttered nonchalantly.

But, unlike his words, his mouth was full of smiles.

Although he did not get the second skill. The gains were not small.

How to utilize the new quest feature.

The use of new skills.

Increased stats and skill proficiency, etc.

Above all.

'The realm that Taehyun should move forward to in the future.'

Just one is a considerable achievement.

He couldn't help but be happy that he got all those things at once.

At that time.

Ding

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

'What?'

To the unexpected message.

Taehyun hurriedly opened the status window.

The quest list in Kim Jongho's enhanced status window.

The change there was noticeable.

[Quest]

Race War (???) - ??? (0.5%)

Territory War (???) - ??? (???%)

Gray Disease (C) - Create a vaccine for Gray Disease. (60%)

'This is….'

The percentage of the Race War that was marked with question marks was quantified.

The same goes for the Gray Disease.

Even though the explanation is clumsy, the percentage is already floating like the others.

Judging from the previous experience.

'There seems to be progress in the Alchemist.'

This was also not a bad gain.

To the extent that it is difficult to call it an individual's status window anymore.

Information on things that Taehyun is involved in can be observed.

If used well, not only the flow of battle.

Even the flow of the world can be grasped.

'It's a great power.'

Taehyun quietly thanked Kim Jongho.

Of course, all of this would have been a synergy that he had not expected either.

Taehyun, who closed the status window, finally looked around.

The devastated appearance of Fukuoka was visible.

It was a place that had been fully abyssalized for a short time.

Like Guangzhou.

It would become a ghost town where people could not live for decades.

"Abyssification... It's a long way to go."

He realized the seriousness of what the Shadow was trying to do.

What if such a gate break occurred in a densely populated area?

What if a player like Taehyun wasn't stationed to stop it?

It's a disaster.

It was no longer meaningful for Taehyun to get stronger alone.

Taehyun looked around.

Since all the buildings were gone.

It was not difficult to find the saint who was passed out.

Fortunately, she seemed to be out of life, probably because she succeeded in defending before the apocalypse was completely destroyed.

Thwack

Taehyun slapped the saint's cheek, who was passed out.

Thwack. Thwack. Thwack.

"Ugh…."

There was a response.

One more time.

Thwack!

The saint quickly opened her eyes.

"Ugh... Ah... Taehyun... Nim...?"

The tingling sensation felt on her cheek was brief.

The saint recognized Taehyun, who was looking down at her.

And.

"The, the gate?!!"

She hurriedly got up and looked around.

Belatedly, the tsunami that was like a mountain came to mind.

"There was no such thing as a gate."

Taehyun calmly calmed her down.

"Then…."

"A monster came out."

"……!!"

"I just caught it a little while ago. That's all."

As if to confirm the order, Taehyun said indifferently.

Unlike his words, Taehyun's clothes were a mess.

It was impossible to even imagine what kind of bloody battle there had been.

"……."

Deep lethargy and a sense of defeat raised their heads.

It was a similar feeling to what happened in Tokyo a while ago.

'Did I pass out again?'

She was disarmed from the time she was swept away by the sea of ​​demons.

If Taehyun hadn't protected her, if ultra-high regeneration hadn't been activated.

'I would have died.'

She was once called the Miracle Saint and revered.

It's not that her power has weakened.

It's just that her growth didn't keep pace with the growth of the demons.

"The business is over. Let's go back."

"Yes…."

Looking at Taehyun, who was treating her indifferently, the saint realized once again.

Japan must do whatever it takes to gain Kim Taehyun's favor.

That was a broad-minded idea.

Thump.

It was also a personal wish.

It was the moment when Chairman Shinkai Jun's thoughts and the saint's thoughts coincided.

After a while.

Taehyun, who had recovered his magic power, used the 'Gate Master' skill.

Unlike when he entered Fukuoka.

The two safely crossed the gate.

The world was shaken by what happened in Fukuoka.

The world's first SSS-rank gate break.

As if that wasn't enough, the first abyssalization had taken place.

Many countries expressed their deepest condolences to Japan, but also became wary.

'If we don't prepare, we could end up like that.'

'It's no longer time for disputes between countries.'

Such thoughts surfaced.

Meanwhile, Taehyun's status, who single-handedly solved such a disaster-level incident, was higher than ever.

Unlike Cody Cruise, who moves according to the orders of the country and Chairman Kevin Lee.

Kim Taehyun is building a close alliance with Chairman Ji Jinhee, creating a synergy effect.

Due to the disaster-level incident Taehyun stopped, there was a surge of opinions in the world that he should be revered as the first SSS-rank player.

Was that all?

Although it was buried by Taehyun's performance.

The potential of New Korea, which blocked Har Sultan's attack, was also belatedly receiving attention.

Behind it was Ji Jinhee, Park Seongjin, Kwon Kanghyuk, and Kwak Siyang, who had recently revealed that they had become top-class S-rank players.

Yoo Ahyeong and Lim Ahyeong emerged as the main players in stopping Har Sultan's attack.

You have to row when the water comes in.

The World Player Association wanted to show that their status was still solid.

Some time later, a player belonging to the World Player Association was dispatched, and a simple test was conducted.

All six candidates received an SS-rank player license.

New Korea was building up its internal strength.

But the world situation was not like that.

China's abusive language to check New Korea continued, and the United States' sanctions to check China collided.

China criticized the United States for not siding with its allies, and the United States suspected China of being behind the Gray Disease and the Mind's terror.

Their confrontation was becoming a situation where the side that first created a vaccine for the Gray Disease would save face.

The United States emphasized that it had the world's best science and technology and announced that it would accelerate vaccine development.

China emphasized that they were at the forefront of vaccine development by offering an exclusive contract for the palliative produced by Taesan Pharmaceuticals.

The estimated vaccine development time was half a year.

There was a dominant opinion that China's palliative would dominate the world for at least half a year.

At that time.

New Korea announced that a vaccine for the Gray Disease had been developed.

The developer was Alchemist, a global guild that was growing into a global guild.

Guild leader Seo Sangik was preparing an official press conference.

The press conference was held at the New Korean Player Association headquarters.

"The Gray Disease was created by Venom, and various variants have been created."

Seo Sangik calmly answered the overseas reporter's question.

"Has the effect been verified?"

"There are already over a hundred people who have been treated."

"What do you think about the Gray Disease not working on the Minds?"

"I would like to mention the rumors circulating in the world. They probably did a demonization experiment. That has also been verified in the process of developing the vaccine."

Questions related to China poured out in response to Seo Sangik's answer.

They also know the current conflict between the United States and China.

Seo Sangik looked embarrassed for a moment.

"Demonization experiments not only strengthen the Mind, but also the player's magic power. Just because it has weakened doesn't mean there are no risks."

He clearly stated his conviction.

"Currently, New Korea has created a higher-level vaccine, and there are no risks."

"Player Kim Taehyun's help was great. We would never have succeeded without him."

"The vaccine will be supplied at a reasonable price. It must be supplied to the players on the front lines first."

Seo Sangik said firmly to the continued questions.

Immediately after the press conference.

The world's attention suddenly turned to China, which had increased its power.

And Taesan Pharmaceuticals' stock plummeted.

The situation changed rapidly.

It was announced that a vaccine for the Gray Disease would be distributed and the World Player Association would begin a full-scale Mind hunt.

Prior to organizing a large-scale hunting team.

A world conference for the supply of vaccines and Mind hunting has been confirmed.

The location is Seoul, the capital of New Korea.

The world's best forces began to gather in New Korea.

At that time.

Special training room prepared at Night Walker headquarters.

There were two men and women there.

Taehyun and Yoo Ahyeong.

Ding

[Skill Apocalypse (SS) has been activated. Targeting the object.]

Kugugugung.

Kwaduk. Kwaduduk.

An irresistible gravity pressed down on Yoo Ahyeong.

Even so.

"Heung~ That hurts~"

Yoo Ahyeong, who had become red-eyed, let out a nasal sound.

"Pull yourself together."

Taehyun said bluntly without using honorifics.

"I've been awake for a while~"

Thwack. Thwack. Thwack.

Three tentacles that had grown behind Yoo Ahyeong's back hit the floor.

More controlled magic power than before.

It was Rozaria's purple magic power.

"Oh my."

Yoo Ahyeong's tentacles stretched out to strangle Taehyun's waist.

Ding

[Skill Dark Apostle (SS) has been activated. Specifying the form.]

Tschtschtscht.

A black dagger was created in Taehyun's hand.

Squeak. Squeak.

Two of the flying tentacles were cut off as they were.

The remaining one skillfully went around to the back and succeeded in wrapping around Taehyun's body.

"I'll break you and then I'll make you love me."

Slurp.

Yoo Ahyeong said with crazy eyes.

[Skill Dark Apostle (SS) has been activated. Specifying the location.]

SsSsSs.

Taehyun, who had removed the tentacles, instantly grabbed Ahyeong from behind.

And.

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

"Pull yourself together. Yoo Ahyeong."

The two's red eyes met.

Two pairs of crimson eyes.

Though Yoo Ah-young has grown stronger.

In front of Tae-hyun, it's merely incomplete power.

The crimson eyes twitched for a moment.

Thud.

Her body collapsed helplessly.

'Hook, line, and sinker.'

The 'Ataraxia' that Tae-hyun used just now wasn't power-adjusted like when training Ji Jin-hee and the others.

Though it wasn't full power.

It was used with the same seriousness as when facing SS-rank or SS+ rank monsters.

Yoo Ah-young, who uses Rozaria's power, had reached a level where she needed to be taken seriously.

"She seems to have even better compatibility than I do."

Tae-hyun clicked his tongue as he said that.

No matter how good the compatibility, it's still the power of the Archduke.

The risk of suddenly obtaining immense power couldn't be light.

He hoped Yoo Ah-young would overcome it as he did, but.

A more fundamental method of controlling the power seemed necessary.

'For now, she'll be okay... but I need to do something.'

Tae-hyun was gazing down at Yoo Ah-young for a moment.

Beep.

The training room door opened.

It was Jung Han-soo who entered.

He had been waiting outside for Tae-hyun and Ah-young's battle to end.

"Is it over?"

"It's over."

"Phew... thank you for your hard work."

Jung Han-soo's complexion was dark as he said that.

That's because he was the one who first contacted Tae-hyun upon his return from Japan.

He was also the one who asked for help in dealing with his guild leader, Yoo Ah-young.

"It's nothing."

'Hard work, my foot.'

Tae-hyun shook his head, saying it wasn't a big deal.

In reality, he was partly responsible for Ah-young's condition because he introduced her to Rozaria.

Moreover, Tae-hyun was the one who told him to let him know if there were any changes in Yoo Ah-young.

He was even grateful that Jung Han-soo had made the best choice.

"Could Kasim Zolt be doing something to the guild leader...?"

Tae-hyun shook his head at Jung Han-soo's speculation.

Jung Han-soo suspected that Ah-young's madness had worsened after meeting Kasim Zolt, but.

Tae-hyun thought differently.

'It must be triggered when life is at stake.'

Just like himself.

However, he couldn't tell Jung Han-soo that Yoo Ah-young had accepted the Archduke's power.

'Madness is a type of personality that appears due to its side effects. There must be a way to control it.'

Perhaps the answer lies with another Archduke contractor rather than himself.

Whether he meets Cody Cruise.

Or finds Asisat Ebi as soon as possible.

'I need to move quickly.'

Tae-hyun vaguely said to Jung Han-soo, who was worried, that Yoo Ah-young's mind and body seemed to be in a growth transition.

So he would help until then.

Jung Han-soo's expression brightened.

Nightwalker was already busy with work.

He was just grateful that Tae-hyun said this first.

"We will treat Tae-hyun as Nightwalker's VVIP."

"You're too kind."

A moment later.

Healers from Nightwalker, who were summoned by Jung Han-soo, entered the training room.

They looked at Jung Han-soo, Tae-hyun, and their unconscious guild leader in turn.

"It was quite a tough training session. Please take good care of her."

"Ah, understood."

They understood the situation at once from Tae-hyun's words and took Yoo Ah-young away.

Tae-hyun put on the jacket he had taken off on one side.

Dealing with Yoo Ah-young was just a brief stop before going to the Association.

From now on, it was time to work towards the main purpose.

"The vice guild leader will have to participate in this meeting."

"A warp gate to the Association is already prepared."

"That's great. That's good."

Using the 'Gate Apostle' would get him to the Association in an instant.

But.

'There's no need to waste fatigue.'

Tae-hyun followed Jung Han-soo to the warp gate zone.

Nine people gathered in a special conference room in the Association building.

Association President Ji Jin-hee.

Association President's Deputy and Head of Future Strategy Department, Go Tae-wook.

Association Special Team Head, Park Sung-jin.

Association Special Team Team Leader 1, Im Ah-young.

Onsaemi-ro Guild Leader, Kwon Kang-hyuk.

Magicians Guild Leader, Kwak Si-yang.

Alchemist Guild Leader, Seo Sang-ik.

Nightwalker Vice Guild Leader, Jung Han-soo.

Association Player, Kim Tae-hyun.

Everyone had a license of S-rank or higher and were the core members of the Association trusted by Association President Ji Jin-hee.

The World Conference led by Shin Korea.

It was a place created to finalize opinions with Shin Korea's main forces before that.

"Thank you for gathering despite your busy schedules."

The temporary meeting began with Ji Jin-hee's greetings.

"Guild Leader Seo, how is the mass production of the vaccine going?"

Ji Jin-hee already knew the details from reports.

Nevertheless, it was necessary to share information for a smoother meeting.

Seo Sang-ik, understanding Ji Jin-hee's thoughts, gave his report.

"We have signed contracts with ten domestic pharmaceutical companies. In addition, we have discussed with the Commissioner of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency to establish a vaccine research center in the area created by the relocation of Taesan Group."

"That's good. I will also speak to the ministers about that matter."

Ji Jin-hee repeatedly thanked Seo Sang-ik.

Seo Sang-ik waved his hands as if burdened.

"It's nothing. It's all thanks to Player Kim Tae-hyun. Without Player Kim Tae-hyun's help... we wouldn't have been able to succeed in developing the vaccine this year."

Seo Sang-ik gave credit to Tae-hyun.

In fact, without the magic power that Tae-hyun provided periodically, it would have been difficult to keep up with the variability of the Gray Disease.

The purple magic power that Tae-hyun used.

That power had overwhelming value in disease research.

"It's nothing. It's thanks to the efforts of the Alchemist and the Association in the research."

Tae-hyun subtly gave credit to the two of them.

"The fact that Shin Korea has you is definitely a blessing from the heavens."

Ji Jin-hee looked at Tae-hyun with a satisfied face.

"Let's stop with the embarrassing talk while keeping busy people seated. Let's get started."

Kwon Kang-hyuk said, rubbing his body as if goosebumps had broken out.

"Then let's get back to the main topic. Head Go, please."

Go Tae-wook nodded at Ji Jin-hee's words.

"Ten countries have decided to send delegations."

When Go Tae-wook touched the screen, ten flags appeared on the screen in front.

Countries that had proposed an alliance to Shin Korea to receive the mass-produced vaccine.

Among them were ten countries selected considering various conditions.

United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Russia, Japan, Taiwan, India, Australia, Spain.

It would be discussed again at the upcoming World Conference, but these were the countries internally identified as the highest priority vaccine distribution targets.

"China is not participating after all."

Ji Jin-hee frowned as he said that.

Although it wasn't the same as before.

Shin Korea, Japan, and China, known as the three dragons of Asia, maintained a three-way system.

Even though the Gray Disease needed to be ended as soon as possible, China expressed reluctance to participate in this conference, stating that they would not attend.

The background was that they were suspected of being behind the Gray Disease, and there was a prevailing opinion that participating in a conference led by Shin Korea could damage their image as a major power.

"Political maneuvering even when people's lives are at stake... it's disgusting."

Ji Jin-hee said, genuinely annoyed.

India and China have the largest populations in Asia.

Since the Gray Disease has occurred the most, the vaccine should be delivered to those two places first.

China is busy hiding while asserting its pride.

Although Taesan Pharmaceuticals has a palliative, it wasn't a good look.

"Let's not wastefully give to those who don't need it."

Kwon Kang-hyuk grumbled and intervened.

He didn't understand Ji Jin-hee's concern for the lives of other countries.

"I understand the President's feelings."

"Why?"

Kwak Si-yang looked troubled at Kwon Kang-hyuk's question.

"Currently, Shin Korea is the only place that has developed a vaccine. If such a valuable vaccine is released without any agreement, there will be a global depression. The President wants to avoid such a situation."

"Bringing the world's powerful countries to Shin Korea. That alone would be proof. We can also gain justification for the extermination of the Minders."

Park Sung-jin intervened.

"Good for them, good for us. Killing two birds with one stone. A win-win situation, you might say."

Seo Sang-ik intervened.

"Surely you didn't... not know?"

Kwak Si-yang asked again.

"......"

Kwon Kang-hyuk remained silent for a moment.

"Hmph!! What's so great about those things attacking? Why all the fuss?!"

Kwon Kang-hyuk raised his voice, excited.

He turned the topic to the Minders, confident.

They had killed three of the highest-ranking S-rank Minders in the previous attack.

Not only that.

Yoo Ah-young once again defeated Kasim Zolt.

As a result, the World Player Association even issued SS-rank licenses to Ji Jin-hee, Park Sung-jin, Kwon Kang-hyuk, Kwak Si-yang, Im Ah-young, and Yoo Ah-young to dampen the spirits of the Minders.

There was a simple measurement process, but.

Compared to before, it was definitely a groundbreaking appointment ceremony.

Seven SS-rank players alone.

Shin Korea's power was stronger than ever.

"That is also... something we are keeping in mind."

Kwak Si-yang looked troubled once again.

He didn't think Kwon Kang-hyuk would be such a pure brain owner.

"What, what...?"

Tae-hyun intervened at Kwon Kang-hyuk's flustered appearance.

"The best forces will gather in Shin Korea, but the Minders will not want the vaccine to be mass-produced."

So what.

What about it?

Everyone was speechless at Kwon Kang-hyuk's simple appearance.

What should they say to persuade such a simple man?

Then Tae-hyun, who had been silent, continued.

"This World Conference. There will definitely be a big attack."

"Damn it..."

Kwon Kang-hyuk cursed at the more complicated situation than he thought.

Three days until the World Conference.

Shin Korea was busy preparing to welcome the delegations from each country.

Unlike the preparation work.

Shin Korea, which was hosting the World Conference, was in a festive mood.

They had developed a vaccine among many countries, and they had prevented the infamous Harsultan's attack.

Not only that.

Their own player, Kim Tae-hyun, even stopped the first SSS-rank Gate Break.

Shin Korea's status had risen absurdly high compared to its land area.

The pride of the 80 million citizens naturally increased.

The government would not let such an important event go unnoticed.

Five broadcasting stations organized live broadcasts led by the government.

From the arrival of the delegations visiting the association for the World Conference to the content after the conference.

Everything was decided to be broadcast live.

Ji Jin-hee, who usually distrusted the government, also did not refuse.

This was to boost the morale of the people who had fallen due to the Gray Disease and the Minders' terror.

Of course, he didn't forget to get a huge investment from the government.

"Player Alvaro Mata, the delegate from Spain, is entering!!"

"Player Yoshikawa Tsrara, called the Saintess of Japan, is greeting Player Kim Tae-hyun!!"

"He is one of the heroes who recently stopped the SSS-rank Gate Break with Player Kim Tae-hyun. Once again, we express our condolences to the bereaved families."

"The delegate from Taiwan is greeting Association President Ji Jin-hee."

"Ah, the delegation from the United States is entering. Cody Cruise is representing Kevin Lee. He is the best player who has been at the top of the world player rankings until recently."

"Ah, Player Cody Cruise is approaching Player Kim Tae-hyun. It is a heartwarming meeting between the former world ranking 1 and the current ranking 1."

As he said, Cody Cruise approached Tae-hyun and exchanged a few words.

"Ah... it's a very good sight. It's like seeing a miniature version of the Shin-Hanmi alliance."

The reporter who made such political remarks belatedly continued.

"Of course, Shin Korea has a good relationship with Japan, and it is necessary to maintain a better relationship with China."

It was when the reporter was rambling to make up for his mistake.

"Hmm...?"

Cody Cruise could be seen raising his hand in his field of vision and on the broadcasting station's camera.

The raised hand was clenched into a fist.

The fist was swung at Tae-hyun.

Whack!!

With a chilling sound, Tae-hyun grabbed the fist.

"What... that crazy...!!"

"Why is Cody Cruise attacking Kim Tae-hyun...!!"

"Zoom in the camera!!"

Without any interest in the surrounding area that had begun to stir.

"You've become much rougher since I last saw you, Cody."

Tae-hyun said with a good-natured smile.

Who could afford to be so relaxed while blocking Cody Cruz's attack?

It was a provocation.

Saying that this level of attack wouldn't affect him at all.

At Taehyun's words, Cody Cruz unleashed his magic power.

"What the hell."

Kwon Kanghyuk, who was nearby, grew in size and approached.

No matter how much of a big shot Cody Cruz was, this was Shinhan Korea.

He was clearly in a foreign country.

And what about the reporters surrounding them?

To act like this even though it was being broadcast live?

Just as he was about to unleash his magic power, thinking that he had to teach him a lesson.

"Guild Leader Kwon. Stay still."

Kwak Siyang said, grabbing Kwon Kanghyuk's arm.

"Guild Leader Kwak, let go of me. I'm going to squash that pale-faced bastard."

Saying that, Kwon Kanghyuk was raising his magic power.

At that reaction, Kwak Siyang sighed.

Even if Cody Cruz had been pushed out of the top spot in the world rankings.

Taehyun was the only one in Shinhan Korea who could face him.

No, the same was true even if you broadened the scope to the world.

But to open up his magic power first, how simple-minded.

'Could it be… that he didn't understand the meaning behind that action?'

If that was the case.

'Really… a man who is pure to the core.'

Kwak Siyang was once again admiring Kwon Kanghyuk's purity.

"I thought someone might bark like this, but I didn't expect it to be Cody."

Barking.

The surrounding reporters and players were shocked by the harsh choice of words.

'Are those two really going to fight here?'

'Are those two crazy?'

'This is a scoop, a scoop.'

Gazes mixed with various thoughts could be felt.

Taehyun unleashed his magic power, not caring.

It was perfectly controlled magic power.

Even so.

Kugugugung.

The area shook low.

Pazzzik. Pazzzik.

Radiance and darkness.

Sparks flew as the two magic powers touched.

"Are you thinking of doing it here?"

Taehyun asked indifferently.

"Of course."

Cody Cruz replied indifferently.

At the same time.

Tting.

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

Tting.

[Skill Fallen Angel(SS) has been activated. The target is specified.]

An explosion erupted even before the World Conference began.

Taehyun's field 'Apocalypse'.

There was only one brightly shining existence in that dark domain.

It was Cody Cruz.

'Has he grown?'

Taehyun thought so simply based on the magic power he felt from him.

He could tell even without using 'Eyes of the Superior'.

That his power had become so great that it couldn't be compared to when he competed with himself in the past.

That he had obtained a power worthy of the name of the strongest player.

'Surely there must have been some enlightenment.'

Cody Cruz had the same thought.

"You've grown too."

"That's what I wanted to say. Did you gain any enlightenment?"

"Enlightenment, huh."

Cody Cruz raised the sword in his hand.

The Holy Sword Durandal.

Attack power and durability that far exceeded the unique grade.

An unbelievable weapon that raises the strength stat by over 100 just by holding it.

It was a weapon that he couldn't handle properly before.

But now, he handled it as casually as if it were a light weapon.

It was the price for accepting the power of Archduke Lucifer, which he had been pushing away all along.

While Taehyun was growing by going back and forth between the Abyss and Earth.

He had been testing the Archduke's power against countless demons.

"That's not wrong. I am grateful to you."

The reason why he, who had a strong sense of pride, began to use Lucifer's power in earnest was because there was a stimulus called Taehyun.

The last update of mankind before Noname disappeared.

At that time, the limit of the awakening grade was increased to SS grade.

Thanks to that, Sarah Collins was able to appear, and she was able to become her teacher.

And now that Noname has disappeared.

The limit of the awakening grade has disappeared.

SSS grade beyond SS grade.

Archduke Contractor Cody Cruz realized that he could become several levels stronger in the future.

As a player.

As a contractor of Archduke Lucifer.

The moment he realized the new possibilities he had, his skills began to change.

The three skills he had before.

S-rank 'Body Enhancement' and 'Weapon Manifestation'.

'Holy Knight', which was no different from a secret skill.

All of that was merged into one skill, 'Fallen Angel'.

It was a bonus that the Awakener grade and skill grade rose to SS.

Taehyun had no way of knowing such specific circumstances.

But his rapid growth was not particularly surprising.

It was different from Ji Jinhui, Park Seongjin, Kwon Kanghyuk, Kwak Siyang, and Im Ahyeong, whose speed he had to increase himself.

'He was originally a man with both the best talent and potential.'

If it weren't for Taehyun, he would still be the world's number one, and he would have certainly kept that position in the future.

A runner-up who wouldn't be strange to be number one.

That was the public's evaluation of Cody Cruz, who was pushed out by Taehyun.

"You've become even more of a monster."

Cody Cruz said calmly.

Saying that, he took a step towards Taehyun.

Just by that, the sparks created by the clash of magic power intensified.

"Wasn't this enough of a show?"

Cody Cruz stopped right in front of Taehyun.

The corners of his lips went up.

"You expected it after all. Since when?"

"Since you said you would come as a representative of the delegation."

He let out a hollow laugh at Taehyun's insight.

Puhuk.

He stuck Durandal into the floor.

It was a cutting force that turned the hard concrete floor into tofu.

If he had blocked such a sword with his bare body, he would have paid the price.

Jiiiing.

Radiance spread from the center of Durandal.

The 'Chains of Restraint' that were trying to approach Cody Cruz crumbled as soon as they touched the radiance.

'Skill…? Or is it Lucifer's authority…?'

Just as Taehyun was about to use the Eyes of the Superior on the unusual power.

"Kim Taehyun. You're a really interesting guy."

Cody Cruz said that sincerely.

At his words, the radiance that had been expanding its domain stopped.

What he was doing, an act that went beyond rudeness.

To think that he not only didn't take it seriously, but even made such a prediction.

He wondered what kind of experienced old fox was in that young body.

"Yeah. All of this is a show, right."

Cody Cruz looked around.

Taehyun's field skill 'Apocalypse'.

The range would be more than he thought.

And in Apocalypse.

'I don't have to worry about the story leaking out.'

That was why he readily admitted his actions.

"Our association president is quite impatient, you see."

"Well, he has good reason to be."

Taehyun shrugged at Cody Cruz's confession.

Kevin Lee, president of the American Player Association.

He was the one who preempted the existence of Noname and led the update of mankind.

'He must have wanted to emphasize the image of the world's strongest country once again.'

This World Conference would be a good stage for him.

The United States of America is still strong.

The United States of America is not afraid of Shinhan Korea, an individual player.

It was a planned show to impress the people who were paying attention to the World Conference.

This was a fact that could be easily inferred by most of the people gathered here, except for a few with intelligence similar to Kwon Kanghyuk.

In fact, many viewers would think so because of Cody Cruz's actions right now.

'Well, it's a bit unexpected that Cody came forward himself.'

Although they had only been together for a short time.

Cody Cruz was a man with his own beliefs.

There was no way he would have bent his pride for no reason.

'What made him move?'

Such a question arose in Taehyun's mind.

"Are you disappointed?"

"A little."

"You're the one who disappointed me first."

"……?"

As Taehyun made a puzzled expression, Cody Cruz sighed.

"The promise to come and share information first. You haven't forgotten, have you?"

There was no way.

Taehyun sent Secretary Kim Miso to periodically provide the American Player Association with information about the Demon and the Abyss.

The value of that information was something that could be called confidential.

"Was the information that the secretary conveyed insufficient?"

Cody Cruz shook his head at Taehyun's question.

"The president and Michael didn't mind that much. But."

Cody Cruz paused for a moment.

Soon, he opened his mouth with an embarrassed expression.

"The one I wanted to meet was you. Not the secretary who brought information scraps."

"……."

The emotion hidden behind the embarrassed expression could be seen.

A spirit of rivalry.

It was an expression that those who had faced Taehyun at least once, including Kwon Kanghyuk, often made.

He was momentarily flustered by the identity of the driving force that moved him.

Cody Cruz pulled out Durandal.

Radiance dwelled in his body.

"Aren't you going to use a weapon?"

"This is really…."

Tting.

[Skill Dark Apostle (SS) has been activated. Specify the form.]

Ssususut.

A dagger was held in Taehyun's hand.

"It looks like it's beyond the unique grade. But it seems insufficient to face Durandal with that."

"It certainly looks that way."

Saying that, Taehyun injected purple magic power into the dagger.

Chiiik. Chiik.

Poisonous magic power overflowed from the dagger's blade and edge.

It was the magic power of Beelzebub.

"……."

Cody Cruz's eyes stopped at the sword.

The weapon that Taehyun had hastily created.

That was because it didn't seem to be inferior to his Durandal.

"You said you wanted to meet?"

Taehyun took a step towards him.

"I'll check how much you've grown."

Saying that, Taehyun used a skill once again.

Tting.

[Skill Dark Apostle (SS) has been activated. Specify the location.]

Ssusususut.

Taehyun's figure disappeared into the darkness for a moment.

"……!!"

Seogeok.

The poisonous dagger that appeared behind Cody Cruz grazed his cheek.

The battle lasted for five minutes.

There were no grand attacks.

They were just exchanging swords silently.

While they were engaged in a seamless exchange, Taehyun distanced himself.

"I think the game should end here."

Although he minimized the power.

There were already more than five players fainting in Apocalypse.

That was because he was a formidable player enough to be selected as a member of the delegation.

The general reporters had already fainted and were lying on the floor.

"Sibal…."

Kwon Kanghyuk knelt down and spat out profanity.

There were a number of people kneeling down like him.

Was that why?

"Hehehe… Sibal, my brother is the best after all…."

That figure looked happy to anyone who saw it.

The World Conference proceeded smoothly.

There was no reason to refute Shinhan Korea's decision to hold the vaccine.

It was also because of the momentum that Taehyun and Cody Cruz had shown before the start of the conference.

They didn't want to be noticed by doing unnecessary things.

"I hope Axis will bring peace to the world."

Ji Jinhui said with a determined face.

"I am grateful for Chairman Ji Jinhui's decision."

"With this, the world will be indebted to Shinhan Korea."

"Then shall we move on to the next agenda…."

At that time.

A commotion broke out outside.

The door of the conference room opened and the chief of staff came in.

"Could it be a demon?!!"

"No."

"Then…?"

"It's China…."

Ji Jinhui, who frowned at his subordinate's report, got up from his seat.

After asking for the understanding of the ambassadors from each country, he quickly left the conference hall.

On the other hand, the corners of Taehyun's lips went up as he watched the scene.

'Has the fish been caught on its own?'

Cody Cruz, who was also watching the scene, shook his head.

That was because he expected the trap that Taehyun had set up.

When Ji Jinhui went outside the conference hall, he saw the Chinese delegation surrounded by numerous reporters.

A man stepped forward as the representative of the delegation.

"I'm sorry to be late unintentionally. I hope you will understand."

"You are…."

At the man's identity.

Ji Jinhui's face twisted.

Episode 266

The representative of the Chinese delegation lowered his head with a fishy smile.

Before him, Ji Jin-hee's face twitched.

Lee Jung-soo, the chairman of the Taesan Group.

The criminal he had missed had come to him on his own two feet.

At Ji Jin-hee's voice, Lee Jung-soo gave a benign smile.

'Heh heh. Acting as if he were a champion of justice.'

He was quite satisfied with the agitated look on that disgusting man's face.

"It's been a while, Association President."

Lee Jung-soo said, bowing his head briefly once more.

An excessive courtesy that was nothing short of mockery.

"Hmm..."

Ji Jin-hee's expression hardened.

Not just because of the other party's unpleasant behavior.

'Did he even sell his beliefs?'

Ji Jin-hee's gaze went to the clothes Lee Jung-soo was wearing.

Above the blue uniform symbolizing Chinese players, the shining five-star red flag was conspicuous.

"What is the meaning of this, Chairman Lee Jung-soo?"

Ji Jin-hee asked him, as if he felt no remorse.

"What do you mean?"

Lee Jung-soo tilted his head as if he didn't know.

A brazen attitude no less than Yoo Ah-young's.

"I asked why you caused such a commotion."

Ji Jin-hee asked, trying to remain calm.

There were many cameras around.

If he showed a flustered expression here, the many Shin Han-guk people watching would surely feel anxious.

However.

'I can see right through your thoughts.'

The corners of Lee Jung-soo's lips lifted as he read Ji Jin-hee's mind.

The reason he had done such an absurd thing, the reason he had become the representative of the Chinese delegation...

'It was because of the Chairman's pressure... but it's not bad.'

Lee Jung-soo's lips couldn't help but rise with the rising feeling of elation.

He felt like a villager returning home in glory.

It was a predetermined future from the moment he naturalized to China and moved the group.

It was just that the moment had been pulled forward a little.

"How did you enter Shin Han-guk? You should be banned from entering the country?"

Ji Jin-hee asked in a stern voice.

Lee Jung-soo was banned from entering Shin Han-guk from the moment he naturalized.

Because of his involvement in the Maine case and violation of the National Security Law.

Lee Jung-soo had refused to be interrogated about evidence and testimony that was unfavorable to him and had left as if fleeing, so a ban on entry was a natural measure.

At Ji Jin-hee's question, Lee Jung-soo shrugged his shoulders.

"Well, it seems that there is nothing in Shin Han-guk that cannot be done with money. Seeing as my power still reaches, that is."

Lee Jung-soo said confidently, not caring about being caught on camera.

It was a statement that many of those watching the screen would feel guilty about.

At the continuous taunts, Ji Jin-hee's face twitched.

Surveillance of Taesan Group affiliates was thorough.

Even so, the fact that this had happened meant that there was another guild colluding with the Chinese government.

'How far is it rotten?'

There was a limit to the power of the Player Association President.

He shook his head at the helplessness of his own country's politicians, who would sell their country for money.

'If it weren't for Tae-hyun...'

He was once again strongly convinced that Shin Han-guk would have been torn apart by Japan and China.

Then.

"Chairman Lee Jung-soo!! How did you enter Shin Han-guk!!"

"Did you come as the representative of the Chinese delegation?!!"

"Wasn't China supposed to boycott the World Conference!!"

"Is it true that Taesan Group is connected to the Maine?!!"

Reporters rushed in, throwing questions.

"Haha. I'm embarrassed to greet you again like this. Businessmen are no different from criminals in Shin Han-guk, so I couldn't help it either."

It was the moment Ji Jin-hee was about to yell at Lee Jung-soo's brazen reply.

"Hey!! Let me ask some questions too!!"

"Don't push from behind!!"

"Is this live?!!"

"Oh... oh...!!"

At the sudden situation, the reporters, who smelled a scoop, pushed in without exception.

Although there was a criminal who should be arrested immediately in front of them, the entrance to the conference hall instantly became a scene of chaos.

Lee Jung-soo, like a seasoned businessman, knew how to use the situation to his advantage.

"Is China participating in this World Conference?!!"

"That depends on what attitude Shin Han-guk shows."

Lee Jung-soo said, pointing to the 50 Chinese players behind him.

They were wearing Chinese player uniforms just like him.

Twenty elites from the Taesan Guild composed of Chinese people and 30 elites belonging to the Chinese Player Association.

All of them had obtained the power befitting an SS-rank player through the Chinese Player Association's cutting-edge procedures.

The initials SS attached to their clothes.

The reporters belatedly realized the meaning and exclaimed.

"SS-rank players... 50 of them...?"

"Hey, it's not the World Player Association's official license yet."

"Still, if it's true... it's twice the power of Shin Han-guk and the United States combined...?"

The reporters, who had been caught up by Lee Jung-soo, chattered among themselves and made a fuss.

"...This is absurd."

Park Sung-jin, who had approached Ji Jin-hee, let out a hollow laugh.

He was in charge of the chief of security for this World Conference.

Lee Jung-soo and 50 Chinese players who had entered without permission.

He wanted to wield the Nason Chilji and behead them all, but he was waiting for Ji Jin-hee's order as the camera was rolling.

Lee Jung-soo read such thoughts from Ji Jin-hee and Park Sung-jin.

'Everything is going according to plan.'

Ji Jin-hee and Park Sung-jin were excellent warriors, but they were not seasoned strategists.

Go Tae-wook and Yoo Ah-young were in charge of such roles.

Whether it was psychological warfare or scheming.

He was not someone they could handle.

If they let them in obediently, Shin Han-guk's prestige would be broken.

'If they fight, the world will realize China's great power.'

Then.

Another Shin Han-guk player came out of the conference room.

"Why aren't you coming in... what the hell is this?"

Kwon Kang-hyuk muttered with a dumbfounded expression as he looked at the dozens of Chinese players in front of him.

Lee Jung-soo's eyes lit up as he found a new bait.

"What the hell? What are these guys?"

Kwon Kang-hyuk asked with his trademark bluntness.

"Uninvited guests."

Park Sung-jin replied.

"No, even I with my eyeholes know that. I'm asking why these guys are here."

"Guild Leader Kwon Kang-hyuk. You're still foul-mouthed."

Lee Jung-soo clicked his tongue and said.

"What the fuck did you say? What did you just say? You Maine-tailed bastard."

Kwon Kang-hyuk growled, spewing out profanity without hesitation.

"Association President. I came as the representative of a great nation's delegation. How long are you going to keep us standing here?"

Lee Jung-soo urged Ji Jin-hee to make a decision.

"A great nation... You've become a full-fledged Chinese, Chairman Lee Jung-soo."

Ji Jin-hee said, emphasizing Lee Jung-soo's name.

"I asked how long you're going to keep us standing here. Surely you're not going to coldly kick us out? Isn't there a saying in Shin Han-guk that even hatred breeds affection?"

Lee Jung-soo said, laughing heartily.

"That bastard..."

It was when Kwon Kang-hyuk was about to step forward, spewing out insults without restraint.

Park Sung-jin stopped Kwon Kang-hyuk.

"Ah, why?"

"Wait. It's not too late to move after hearing the Association President's thoughts."

"This is bullshit..."

"There are many cameras, Guild Leader Kwon Kang-hyuk."

Park Sung-jin gave the warning again.

Only then did Kwon Kang-hyuk grumble and step back.

Park Sung-jin also tried his best to calm his mind and watched the situation.

On the other hand, Lee Jung-soo's expression was relaxed.

'The atmosphere is slowly turning in my favor.'

He could feel that the momentum had shifted to him.

If they didn't let them in, Shin Han-guk would be seen as fearing China, and if they let them in, it would be seen as China being feared and given special treatment.

Whichever side they chose, Shin Han-guk would lose, and China would gain.

'Just a little more pressure...'

Then.

"Oh my. We have an uninvited guest."

Tae-hyun appeared from behind Ji Jin-hee.

Unlike the three people in front of him, he seemed to not care as if he had been waiting.

"Long time no see, Player Kim Tae-hyun..."

Before Lee Jung-soo could finish his words.

"What's a runaway dog doing here?"

"......!!"

It was when Lee Jung-soo was about to shout something.

Tae-hyun continued speaking again.

"Article 12-1 of the Shin Han-guk Player Association's charter. Powerful preemptive measures can be taken against Maine or those equivalent to them who pose a threat to the country."

"I'm currently the delegation leader of a great nation..."

"I don't want to hear it."

Tae-hyun unleashed his magic power.

A skill that had already been fused and disappeared from the status window.

But there was a useful skill for a situation like this.

Tting.

[The skill King Knight's Aura (SS) has been activated. Specifying the target. Magic consumption is accelerating.]

"Kneel."

Kugugugung.

Irresistible magic power was unleashed from Tae-hyun's body.

Just that alone.

Thud. Thud. Thud.

The 51 members of the Chinese delegation, including Lee Jung-soo, knelt down.

The reporters captured that scene with their cameras.

'What is this...'

Lee Jung-soo's expression turned disbelieving.

Excluding himself, there were as many as 50 people.

Although they had not received the official license recognized by the World Player Association.

The specs of their stats and skills had certainly reached the level of SS-rank players.

Similarly, he also possessed a power no less than a top-tier S-rank player.

'Why.'

Why were they all unable to withstand the magic power of Kim Tae-hyun alone?

Surrounded by reporters, like criminals.

Why were they kneeling?

It was when Lee Jung-soo was flustered by Tae-hyun's unexpected strength.

"You!!!"

A Chinese player belonging to the Association, not the Taesan Guild, shouted and stood up.

'That guy was... at the mid-level of SS-rank.'

Unlike the 20 Taesan Guild members.

The 30 Association players were President Jeongcheong's people.

Although they were following his orders now, their hearts were those of great nation minds loyal to the organization and the country to the bone.

And Tae-hyun's actions had touched the pride of such Chinese people.

'If I can sacrifice that one to create a justification, it's not a bad sacrifice.'

It was when Lee Jung-soo was thinking that.

He endured Tae-hyun's magic pressure and stood up completely.

Kwaduk. Kwaduk.

The sound of the cartilage in his knees being damaged as a result of enduring Tae-hyun's magic power was heard even by those around him.

He was forcibly concentrating magic power on his legs.

"Tough."

Tae-hyun said, as if praising such a Chinese player.

"Are you looking down on a great nation!!"

His sonorous voice mixed with magic power echoed.

As expected, he had the skills to be on the edge of SS-rank, and some of the reporters were seen collapsing.

"I'm not looking down on you."

Tae-hyun continued quietly.

"Isn't it not even worth it?"

Those words cut off the man's fuse.

Kwaddeudeudeudeu.

The man's body grew larger.

SS-rank skill 'Enhanced Giantification'.

The man's magic power, which had momentarily overloaded the skill, reached a level that was not lacking for the SS rank.

Kuoong. Kuoong.

His giant body, which far exceeded 2 meters, took one step at a time towards Tae-hyun.

Ji Jin-hee raised his magic power, and Park Sung-jin put his hand on his sword.

It was when only Tae-hyun, who was using the skill, was leisurely watching the scene.

Before Tae-hyun could take action.

There was a man who ran out first.

Kwang!!

Kwon Kang-hyuk, who had used his skill to momentarily have the limbs of a dinosaur, smacked the approaching man.

He had consumed a considerable amount of magic power just by enduring Tae-hyun's skill.

There was no way he could withstand Kwon Kang-hyuk's blow, who had already reached the mid-level of SS-rank players.

The man flew away pathetically and crashed into the floor.

"Fuck. A fake bastard is acting up."

Kwon Kang-hyuk, who had returned to his original body, huffed and said.

Lee Jung-soo's face twitched at those words.

Fake.

That word was like a trauma for Chinese players.

The remaining 49 players also unleashed their magic power.

"You!!!"

"It's war!!"

"How dare you...!!"

"Are you looking down on a great nation!!"

The entrance to the conference hall instantly turned into a mess with the swirling magic power.

"War..."

Tae-hyun muttered lowly as he watched the scene.

Did they know the real meaning of war?

He thought that for a moment.

"You don't know your place."

Arrogance was present in Tae-hyun's voice.

Including Lee Jung-soo.

The gaze towards the 51 Chinese players was not good.

It was.

A look as if looking at bugs.

267

Taehyun's taunt made Lee Jung-soo's facial muscles twitch.

It wasn't anger from the provocation.

Following Kwon Kang-hyuk, Kim Taehyun.

The fact that two players representing New Korea had taken the bait.

From the beginning, Lee Jung-soo's roots were in New Korea.

He lived a life where everything was business.

He wasn't stupid enough to fall for a petty taunt.

But the 50 Chinese players were different.

'There's enough justification.'

Justification for an enraged Chinese SS-rank player to unleash their skills and use force.

And that wasn't all.

An additional 100 S-rank players from China were stationed near the conference hall.

They weren't wearing their player uniforms.

They poured into Seoul from all over the country without using gates.

East, west, south, and north.

They were scattered in groups of 25, making it difficult for New Korea to detect them.

Even if they weren't officially ranked.

50 SS-rank players and 100 S-rank players.

A force that could devour an entire country.

Seoul was the venue for the world conference.

All eyes were focused there.

What if a large-scale battle broke out in such a place?

'Ji Jin-hee, Kim Taehyun. You'll have to give up a significant portion of what you've built up until now.'

Of course, China and the Taesan Group would also suffer damage to their image, but.

'It's a battle with more gains than losses.'

It was a predetermined step since Kim Taehyun had already made them kneel once.

It was necessary to properly demonstrate China's power here.

And it was being broadcast live.

Lee Jung-soo was a businessman skilled in public opinion.

The stage was definitely set.

Once the incident broke out, the high-ranking officials of New Korea and some European countries he had already secured would cooperate.

Lee Jung-soo felt the need to make the atmosphere even more certain here.

"You're making a mistake, Player Kim Taehyun."

"What?"

There was no more honorifics in Taehyun's reply.

Lee Jung-soo's lips twitched once again at his innocent attitude.

'That brat.'

The entire situation was being broadcast.

New Korea was a country formed by votes.

Politicians were bound to be conscious of votes for their next reelection, and the majority of those votes were held by the middle or lower class.

People wanted to see polite behavior even from successful people.

Otherwise, it was difficult to acknowledge.

That such a person was above them.

He was convinced once again.

That he could seize control of this world conference stage.

"Your immature actions just now have caused the relationship between our two countries to lose trust. The damage will be seen by countless companies in New Korea and the people working under them."

Lee Jung-soo paused for a moment before continuing.

"Can you take responsibility for all of them? Can you feel the suffering of 80 million New Koreans? No. The pain would be unimaginable for a player like you who earns so much money."

Lee Jung-soo subtly turned his body towards the camera.

That Taehyun was different from ordinary New Koreans.

That the pain caused by his actions would ultimately be borne not by the players or association officials.

But by ordinary citizens.

Taehyun's lips curled up, seeing through the obvious scheme.

"I swear, look at him jabbering like the businessman he is."

Kwon Kang-hyuk huffed and puffed, and Taehyun agreed with the sentiment for the first time in a while.

"There can be no economy without security. What are you going to do, Association President?"

Taehyun, who had weakened his skill, asked Ji Jin-hee.

Ji Jin-hee looked at the 49 players who had endured Taehyun's skill and risen to their feet.

All of them wore fierce hostility.

'To dare….'

The country of New Korea, which he and his colleagues had protected with blood and sweat.

How rude was this attitude in his own country?

"Escort team leader. What's the protocol in this case?"

"As Player Kim Taehyun said."

"Immediate execution."

"They are intruders who have invaded the territory of New Korea. It's too light a punishment to simply end their lives."

"Then?"

"Aim to capture them alive as much as possible, but summary execution is fine if necessary."

Park Sung-jin nodded at the order that was given.

"Escort teams 1 and 2. Subdue all the intruders."

Park Sung-jin said, igniting mana on his Nasonchilji (spear).

His appearance was as terrifying as a grim reaper.

"Those sons of bitches. I'll help too."

"There's no need. It's cleaner for the association to handle this."

"Tch."

Kwon Kang-hyuk clicked his tongue at Park Sung-jin's dissuasion.

"What about your brother?"

Kwon Kang-hyuk asked Taehyun.

"I belong to the association. I'll lighten the burden on the Association President."

Unlike Kwon Kang-hyuk, who was the guild leader of Onsaemiro.

Taehyun was a player who was not affiliated with any guild externally.

He belonged to the association, but his actions were relatively free as he acted alone.

He could participate as an association player when the association had work, and he could say it was an impulsive action when it was disadvantageous.

"Tch. So you're saying you'll only play among yourselves."

Kwon Kang-hyuk smacked his lips as if envious.

If the vice guild leader had seen it, he would have scolded him for being careful with his words.

Park Sung-jin also didn't want to create unnecessary sacrifices for his subordinates, so he didn't refuse Taehyun's participation.

"I'm counting on you."

"Don't worry. As long as they don't cross the line, I'm also thinking of 'capturing' them."

Taehyun emphasized the word capture.

The Chinese players who were listening to their conversation became even more hostile.

They were also treated as national power in their own country.

To dare to show such ease in front of them?

Kim Taehyun's name value was great, but.

To dare to insult a great power and maintain such arrogance?

Unforgivable.

Then, some of the delegates who belatedly realized the seriousness of the situation came out.

Among them were Cody Cruz and the Saintess.

"That's bolder than I thought."

Cody Cruz said that, understanding the situation at once.

It was an assessment of China.

"……."

The Saintess was in a situation where she couldn't even open her mouth because she was so dumbfounded by their actions.

'Are they crazy…?'

Because she had seen Taehyun's power closer than anyone else.

She couldn't think of anything else.

"Taehyun, may I dare to help you…."

It was when the Saintess was about to say that.

"It's not to the point where we need to borrow the hands of other countries."

The Saintess became sullen at the immediate reply that followed.

She had said it from her heart, but.

There was always something to be gained and something to be lost.

Taehyun seemed to have taken it as a political statement.

"Are you perhaps planning to try it?"

Lee Jung-soo asked with a hearty laugh.

The power Taehyun had shown a moment ago was definitely overwhelming.

But in the end, it was New Korea that would suffer if it turned into a chaotic battle.

'If there is even one casualty on this side, it will be difficult to avoid responsibility for it.'

Regardless of victory or defeat, Lee Jung-soo was confident in that regard.

There was no way Taehyun wouldn't have read that thought.

"Unlike those who were talking about great power."

He paused for a moment.

Pfft.

He gave them a smile.

And.

"I think everyone has a problem with their personality."

They were people who had been prepared for battle from the start.

The obvious provocation had a sufficient effect.

"What!!!"

"You!!!"

Sparks flew in the area from the mana waves emanating from the 49 players.

The number was significant.

If they didn't calm down the rampaging ones, this conference wouldn't end properly.

Taehyun completely withdrew the mana he had been using to use 'Knight King's Spirit'.

Was it because the crushing pressure had disappeared?

Their rampant spirit became even stronger.

The 20 players from the Taesan Guild were the same.

They were the ones hired by Lee Jung-soo, but they were also ready to devastate this place at any time with their burning patriotism.

"Everyone, release your mana."

Lee Jung-soo, who had straightened his knees, ordered as well.

"There's no need."

A majestic mana was embedded in Taehyun's voice.

They didn't notice it.

Flitting.

Ji Jin-hee, Park Sung-jin, Kwon Kang-hyuk, Cody Cruz, and the Saintess, who were watching, twitched their bodies.

Before they knew it, a purplish mana was subtly blooming from Taehyun's body.

"I'll ask you politely. Everyone."

Tring.

[Skill Ataraxia (SS) has been activated. Targeting the subject. Mana consumption is accelerated.]

"Commit suicide."

Thud. Thud. Thud.

Swish.

Crack. Crunch.

Blood splattered everywhere.

"……!!"

"……!!"

"I swear… you said you wouldn't kill them…."

Kwon Kang-hyuk spat out profanity and looked at Taehyun.

Someone's scream echoed.

Lee Jung-soo was standing among the 49 players stained with blood.

"What is this…."

Lee Jung-soo muttered with an unbelievable expression.

Except for Kwon Kang-hyuk who blew away a player, and himself, the 49 players.

Those who had become SS-rank players.

Were attacking themselves at Taehyun's one word.

Some were slitting their throats, some were penetrating their abdomens with their own hands, and some were harming themselves using skills.

A thick scent of blood spread in an instant.

It wasn't just Lee Jung-soo who was surprised.

Ji Jin-hee, Park Sung-jin, and Kwon Kang-hyuk knew well what this power was like, having trained with Taehyun.

Gulp.

They swallowed dry saliva.

That was the same for Lim A-young, who had arrived after receiving Park Sung-jin's order.

The Saintess's case was even more severe.

'Mental domination that cannot be compared to divine revelation….'

It was a power that could not be compared to what Taehyun had used on her before.

Her body trembled with awe.

'Is this the power of Grand Duke Rozaria?'

Only Cody Cruz had a smile on his face as if he had seen a good sight.

"Chairman Lee Jung-soo. You have a face that looks like you have something to say."

Taehyun asked him indifferently, standing alone.

"I'll… go back…."

Lee Jung-soo muttered, unable to dare to meet his eyes.

It was Park Sung-jin who answered that.

"That's difficult. Dead or alive, this is the territory of New Korea. The crime of intrusion is severe."

Park Sung-jin nodded to Lim A-young.

Chwaaaaaa.

Lim A-young froze all 49 players who were lying down, scattering blood.

It was both stopping the bleeding and binding them.

The New Korean players who arrived next transported them.

Reporters quietly captured the scene on camera.

Bang!!

Jeongcheong slammed the table at the sight that appeared on the screen.

"To dare…!!"

On the screen, Lee Jung-soo and 50 Chinese players were being helplessly restrained.

The proud warriors of the great power were becoming the laughingstock of the world.

Just as he was trembling, unable to calm his anger.

"Chairman. Player Lee Jeong-jae of the Taesan Guild has arrived."

The secretary announced that Lee Jeong-jae, whom he had called to share a toast, had arrived.

"Let him in…."

Lee Jeong-jae entered at Jeongcheong's command.

"Greetings to the Chairman."

Lee Jeong-jae, wearing the Chinese player uniform, bowed politely.

"We're strangers."

"Yes, we are."

"I've heard that you're showing good performance for the sake of the great power?"

"It's an honor to my family."

Lee Jeong-jae bowed deeply and answered.

He looked down at him for a while.

"Then I'm curious to know what you think about that situation."

Jeongcheong asked, pointing to the screen.

Lee Jeong-jae's face hardened when he saw the face on the screen.

His father was being arrested and dragged away.

And even by Lim A-young's skill.

"It's a grateful thing that the Taesan Guild is dealing with the rebellious elements scattered throughout the great power. But what I need is a hunting dog that works properly."

"Give me your command."

Lee Jeong-jae said, bowing once again.

"Shouldn't you avenge your father?"

"……."

"Or perhaps aim for your father's position."

"……!!"

Lee Jeong-jae's face, who was trying hard to maintain his composure.

Twitched without him realizing it.

Lee Jeong-jae, who came out of the chairman's office, entered the Taesan Guild's building.

The screen was still showing Lee Jung-soo and 50 players being carried away.

"That monster-like bastard."

Lee Jeong-jae muttered, looking at Taehyun's figure caught on camera.

He came to China and obtained a player license.

And he underwent all kinds of state-of-the-art procedures and overcame the wall.

The SS-rank player tested independently in China.

He thought he had surpassed Kim Taehyun and Lim A-young, the two damn bastards, by reaching that position.

But.

Now he realized how futile his confidence had been so far.

'I need that guy's power.'

The faces of the two demons came to Lee Jeong-jae's mind.

The two demons that Lee Jung-soo was secretly working with.

Min Ji-hong and Kasim Zolt.

He couldn't be a match for Kim Taehyun without them.

He couldn't reach Kim Taehyun.

'I have to get that guy's power.'

Currently, Min Ji-hong cannot be contacted.

Suddenly, Kasim Zolt's gaze towards him came to his mind.

Lee Jeong-jae opened the safe on his desk.

There was a piece of paper with a number written on it.

It was what Kasim Zolt had left, saying to contact him if he needed him.

That he, who had been the heir to a large corporation, was now involved with the most heinous demon.

It's not even funny.

But.

'In the end, surviving is being strong.'

Lee Jeong-jae was convinced that he was not wrong.

He remembered the proposal that Chairman Jeongcheong had made a moment ago.

The sweet proposal to put New Korea in his hands, replacing his father.

And.

"Kim Taehyun… I will definitely…."

Kill.

Lee Jeong-jae's hatred towards Taehyun blazed like a volcano.

Chapter 268

China's sudden dispatch of a delegation.

And the absurd force and response of Shin-Hanguk and Kim Tae-hyun.

The world was abuzz with unexpected events.

The meeting, which was in progress, was temporarily suspended due to the sudden incident.

The Chinese side declared that they would question the murder of their own players dispatched as a delegation.

They even made a declaration of war.

In war, someone always benefits, and someone always loses.

Everyone watched with bated breath to see how the relationship between Shin-Hanguk and China would unfold.

Then, Ji Jin-hee held a press conference.

All 50 Chinese players who were said to have been crushed to death by Tae-hyun were alive and well.

There were more than a few people who watched them end their lives on television.

People thought that China would not accept it, calling it nonsense.

But why?

The Chinese government and association lowered their voices as if they had lost their justification for the attack.

Ji Jin-hee announced that he would imprison Lee Jung-soo and 50 players belonging to the Chinese Association on charges of unauthorized intrusion and illegal immigration.

In a situation like the calm before the storm.

China belatedly took a strong stance, but the world's public opinion had already cooled.

It was only Lee Jung-soo, the head of the delegation and chairman of the Taesan Group.

All that was broadcasted was him looking like a criminal.

Before being imprisoned in the player prison.

"Call my lawyer!!"

That was the last image of Lee Jung-soo captured by the camera.

The association formed a special team to search for those involved in the incident.

Onsaemi-ro and Magicians dispatched an emergency support team to support the association.

Meanwhile.

One of the parties involved in the incident.

Tae-hyun was nowhere to be seen.

On the night of the Chinese players' rampage.

Three men met in the VIP room of the Player Association.

Go Tae-wook, Seo Sang-ik, and Tae-hyun.

"The association president is talking with the ministers."

Go Tae-wook said quietly.

As he said, Ji Jin-hee was meeting with the ministers to settle this incident.

This is because the government is not taking a proper stance against China, citing the economic downturn.

Despite the clear incident, the situation was not easy to resolve as lobbying had already been completed.

If the political world did not come up with a proper solution,

Lee Jung-soo would have to be released.

"They're really absurd people."

Go Tae-wook criticized the high-ranking government officials who were moving for their own benefit.

The current government is friendly to China due to lobbying from China, and the previous government is friendly to Japan due to lobbying from Japan.

They were all public officials appointed for the sake of Shin-Hanguk.

However, they were moving for their own sake, not for the sake of Shin-Hanguk.

Ji Jin-hee, who usually hated such people, had been dealing with them by not associating with them.

However, this incident was not something that could be handled carelessly, so he was moving busily.

"How's the atmosphere?"

Seo Sang-ik asked.

"It's not good. If we drag this on, a legal battle will be inevitable..."

"You can't hold them for long, can you?"

Tae-hyun continued, as if he had expected it.

"Yeah. They're a bunch of bastards."

Go Tae-wook once again criticized the government's weak attitude.

Pathetically, the first thing they brought up was the economy.

Lee Jung-soo's logic was that if China imposed economic sanctions, Shin-Hanguk's economy, which lived on trade, would collapse.

Ji Jin-hee was scolding them, saying that security was more important.

But from the moment it became a political issue, the mud fight had begun.

"How are 'those guys' doing?"

Tae-hyun asked Seo Sang-ik.

"Surprisingly, none of them have any problems with their lives."

"That's amazing."

Unlike his words, Tae-hyun's expression didn't seem very surprised.

"Yeah, it's amazing."

What they were talking about was none other than the Chinese players who had committed suicide.

Clearly, they had all ended their lives due to the influence of Tae-hyun's 'Ataraxia.'

Some stabbed themselves in the heart, and others slit their throats with their own hands.

In any case, what was certain was that

Except for Lee Jung-soo and the player who rushed in first and fainted, everyone else was caught in Tae-hyun's Ataraxia and experienced death once.

Afterwards, they were frozen with Im Ah-young's skill, and an autopsy was started at a nearby hospital, thinking they would be corpses.

Surprisingly.

Although their life activities were temporarily stopped, their hearts were beating again with new power.

Magic Stone.

A power that can be said to be evidence of demonization.

Shin-Hanguk was secretly investigating the cause without revealing the fact to the media.

"It's certain that they did a demonization experiment. Some of them are already showing regeneration abilities."

"Can you submit that as evidence?"

Seo Sang-ik shook his head at Tae-hyun's question.

"Rather, they would insist that we forced them to experiment. Since they know they're alive, they're probably preparing to cut off their tails by now."

If there was a risk of evidence being caught, they wouldn't have sent them to this incident.

Seo Sang-ik nodded.

"Did you expect it?"

Go Tae-wook asked, looking at Tae-hyun, who still didn't seem to care.

"No way. I just hoped it was a delusion."

Tae-hyun shrugged and replied.

At that answer.

'He expected it.'

'He knew it.'

Go Tae-wook and Seo Sang-ik each had such thoughts.

"Well, anyway, it's already happened, so if we solve it well, wouldn't it be fine?"

Tae-hyun smiled kindly.

His gaze turned to Seo Sang-ik.

"Guild leader. How's the vaccine injection going?"

"I just checked and injected them all. But it's hard to say what kind of reaction the Gray Disease vaccine will have to demonization..."

Seo Sang-ik trailed off.

Gray Disease does not work for those who have succeeded in demonization experiments.

However, that does not mean that the Gray Disease vaccine is a demonization vaccine.

Even if they were no different from demons.

Normally, they would not inject an unproven drug into overseas players.

However, Tae-hyun's will was firm.

He said that they might spread Gray Disease, and that it was a priority to inject the vaccine for the safety of the people.

From the development of the vaccine to the suppression of the incident.

Had Tae-hyun ever been wrong?

Knowing that, the two people had no choice but to follow Tae-hyun's words for now.

There's no harm in being careful in advance.

"Chief. I think we need to strengthen the security just in case."

Go Tae-wook and Seo Sang-ik both paid attention to the word 'just in case.'

"I hope this conference ends without any problems."

They know that Tae-hyun doesn't say empty words.

Therefore.

'We need to call in the four major guilds.'

'We need to declare a state of emergency.'

The two had no choice but to remain silent.

"What a shitty thing..."

Lee Jung-soo muttered to himself.

Not to anyone, but to himself.

It was a job he took on because he thought it was possible enough.

But if the situation continues to unfold like this, it wouldn't be strange for Chairman Jungcheong to cut off his tail.

'No, he's a man who can cut it off and still have plenty left over.'

He would eliminate himself and probably swallow the fully transferred Taesan Group as it is.

Min Ji-hong also needed the capital and power of Taesan Group, not Lee Jung-soo as an individual.

In that regard, his current situation was perfect for cutting off the tail.

He would have done the same if he were himself.

'Damn it.'

Lee Jung-soo recalled the events of a few hours ago.

Kim Tae-hyun.

His power was beyond imagination.

That was the only way to explain what had happened.

If only he hadn't been there, it would have been a pretty plausible melee.

The melee would have given the S-class players who were hiding the justification to intervene.

China and Chairman Jungcheong would have gained the justification to dispatch a large army.

But now, it only gave Shin-Hanguk the justification.

He could vividly picture Chairman Jungcheong scolding him.

'There's still hope.'

He recalled some of the faces who had received money from China and himself.

Some of Shin-Hanguk's leading figures in politics and business.

They wouldn't leave him like this.

Above all.

'It's not like there's no gain.'

Lee Jung-soo recalled the last order Tae-hyun had given.

Commit suicide.

With that one word, 49 SS-class players slit their throats.

It was an absurd incantation.

'There's always a price to pay for power.'

He knew how the people he brought had obtained the power of the SS-class.

He knew even more details because his son was the same.

Demonization.

Tae-hyun's mysterious power could only be explained as the power of a demon.

'No, the truth doesn't matter.'

If he fabricated the facts appropriately and spread rumors, the ignorance of the ignorant people would take care of the rest.

It's a kind of mudslinging.

But all of that.

'It's only possible if I get out of here alive.'

Lee Jung-soo once again estimated his hope of survival.

If he got out of here alive, he seemed to have a good chance of winning with the support of the Chinese government and association.

Meanwhile.

"Ugh...ah..."

"Ugh..."

"My body..."

"It's hot..."

The 50 players who were imprisoned just like Lee Jung-soo.

The 50 players who were injected with the Gray Disease vaccine Axis injected by Seo Sang-ik began to show abnormal reactions.

It was something that was happening without Lee Jung-soo's knowledge.

"The vaccine will be spread mainly to the participating countries. From today, world justice will build an even stronger alliance."

With Ji Jin-hee's words, the first World Conference ended.

"It ended successfully."

"That's what I'm saying."

"Shin-Hanguk's power seems to be more than I thought."

"Rather, Kim Tae-hyun's power was probably more than we thought."

"Aren't those Chinese SS-class players suspicious too?"

It was when the delegations of several countries were talking about such things.

Go Tae-wook, who hadn't shown his face all day, entered the conference room.

He delivered something to Ji Jin-hee, the association president.

Ji Jin-hee's expression hardened.

A moment later.

He gave instructions to Go Tae-wook and grabbed the microphone.

Everyone's eyes turned to Ji Jin-hee.

"I'm sorry to deliver such news on a good day... It seems that demons have appeared in Shin-Hanguk."

The surroundings instantly became noisy.

"Demons?!!"

"Did a gate open?"

"Share the information with us too. President Ji Jin-hee!!"

Several delegation representatives asked that.

Ji Jin-hee nodded and continued to explain.

"The Chinese players who were imprisoned before. They were demonized. I'm saying this in case of controversy... The association is revealing that it only injected the vaccine into them for the purpose of preventing infectious diseases."

"Vaccine for demonization..."

"Don't tell me the Chinese players were really...?"

"Huh... hehe..."

"Is the rumor true...?"

Lastly.

"What is the grade of the demons?"

Cody Cruise asked quietly.

"The grade of the demons currently identified is estimated to be all S to SS."

Ji Jin-hee answered as if he was troubled.

"SS...?"

"The delegations and reporters of each country will be evacuated to a safe place by the association, so please follow the instructions."

As Ji Jin-hee said that and tried to leave the conference hall in a hurry.

"Where are you going, President?!!"

A reporter who was allowed to enter the conference room asked that.

"The place where players should be is the scene."

The reporter could not ask any more questions as Ji Jin-hee disappeared with his answer.

Naturally, everyone's eyes turned to Tae-hyun.

"P, Player Kim Tae-hyun!! The current situation is..."

"The place where players should be is the scene. Please evacuate carefully."

Tae-hyun followed Ji Jin-hee.

Cody Cruise sighed.

Michael Gore approached.

"With this, all of the president's plans have gone down the drain."

"Everyone must have fallen into Kim Tae-hyun's trap."

Cody Cruise and Michael Gore, who said that, belatedly moved their bodies.

Okay, here's the translation of the provided Korean text into English:

Episode 269

The demonization of Chinese players held in custody.

Moreover, all 50 of them demonized collectively.

The unprecedented situation caused reporters, sensing a scoop, to swarm in.

It was fortunate that the building holding them was equipped with a state-of-the-art barrier system.

A total of ten layers of barriers stacked on top of each other.

The demons were unable to escape because they were busy breaking through the walls, which were the culmination of the alchemists' cutting-edge scientific prowess.

It also helped that the demonized players were irrational.

Perhaps that's why.

Even though it was a situation that could be considered an SS-rank gate break.

The actual damage was minimal.

Thud thud thud.

Helicopters flew overhead, capturing the scene on camera.

Demons were detonating magical power to escape the stacked blue barriers.

The buildings inside the barrier were already half-destroyed, and players outside the barrier were entrenched, preparing for any eventuality.

Kwon Kang-hyuk and Kwak Si-yang were the first to arrive at the scene.

They had left the meeting at Go Tae-wook's request to reinforce security in the surrounding area.

"Damn it. How many are there?"

Kwon Kang-hyuk muttered, looking at the unbelievable number of demons.

"There are a total of fifty. Twenty are S-rank, twenty are S+ rank, and about ten are SS-rank."

"Crazy. It's practically a war."

"You can say that again."

Kwak Si-yang, who had already unleashed his magical power, replied while preparing a skill.

Kwon Kang-hyuk whistled at the sight.

"Guild Leader Kwak. You seem more composed than I expected?"

"I could say the same about you, Guild Leader Kwon."

Kwak Si-yang said, grinning.

They had broken through the SS-rank wall thanks to Tae-hyun's rigorous training.

Thanks to that, they were able to handle one SS-rank demon each.

Of course, right now the numbers didn't match up, so they were just watching the situation from outside the barrier.

Soon, when the main forces of New Korea arrived, they would begin the full-scale hunting operation.

'Come to think of it, it's quite perfect that we became SS-rank players at this time...'

'Damn... my brother didn't predict this situation too, did he?'

Thinking about Tae-hyun's actions, which were always a few steps ahead, it seemed entirely possible.

While the two men were preparing for battle and harboring such reasonable suspicions.

"You guys got here first."

Park Seong-jin arrived with the escort troops he had set aside for the world conference.

Im A-young was with him.

"Damn. I see your faces often, but the situation never gets old."

"There are three more people left."

Kwak Si-yang said, watching the demons inside the barrier.

In front of SS-rank demons, S-rank players and below were of little help.

No, it was right not to interfere if they didn't want to increase unnecessary sacrifices.

So, the remaining SS-rank players.

Ji Jin-hee, Yoo A-young, and Kim Tae-hyun.

As soon as those three arrived, they would form a 7-person party and the extermination would begin.

It didn't take long for the last members to arrive.

"I don't think we're late."

"You can say that again."

Ji Jin-hee and Tae-hyun arrived through the gate.

They were coming from the conference hall.

"What happened to Guild Leader Yoo A-young?"

To Kwak Si-yang's question.

"She's on standby in case of an emergency."

Ji Jin-hee, who had heard from Go Tae-wook in advance, answered.

Six SS-rank players.

And Tae-hyun, the strongest force.

Kwon Kang-hyuk couldn't help but laugh at the rare party hunt, regardless of the seriousness of the situation.

"Good. This is more than enough power to crush them!!"

"Opening barrier C."

Wee-ing. Wee-ing.

Along with the final barrier, the barrier in front of it disappeared.

As the six players entered.

Slaughter began.

At that time, the delegations that had participated in the world conference were being moved according to guidance.

Even though it was an evacuation, there was no tension.

Each and every one of them was a leading player in their country.

Besides, Kim Tae-hyun was at the scene, and Cody Cruz was here.

They were just surprised and dumbfounded by the current situation.

"Wow... demonization..."

"It's absurd..."

"I didn't think it was true that they were in league with the Mains..."

Demonization, Gray Disease, and the Mains are inextricably linked.

China had been under constant suspicion for the above three charges and had consistently protested its innocence.

But 50 of their players, who could be considered their elite.

They all demonized during interrogation, so they could no longer make excuses.

Some countries expressed disappointment, and some countries expressed anger.

The scene was being broadcast on a large screen.

Six of New Korea's top forces.

Although Yoo A-young was missing.

Their power was overwhelming even in the face of 50 demons.

First, Im A-young's ice surrounded the area.

For a moment, the demons' attention was drawn to the ice pillars that appeared in an instant.

Kwon Kang-hyuk crushed the demons with his giant body, and Park Seong-jin's sword bisected the demons.

S-rank demons were swept away by the spikes Kwak Si-yang created.

And.

Ji Jin-hee and Tae-hyun were using ancient martial arts to quickly deal with the SS-rank demons.

Massacre.

It was a one-sided annihilation.

"New Korea is a scary place..."

"I agree... it seems more profitable to raid the US Association."

Some delegations were talking such nonsense.

Lee Jeong-soo trembled inside the collapsed building.

Because of his appearance in the mirror.

'Why me...'

One eye had turned crimson.

Not just the eyes.

Unidentifiable demon scales had grown on the upper half of his body.

'Why is there such a risk...'

He hadn't received demonization surgery.

All 50 of the players who had been imprisoned with him had turned into demons and ran out of the building.

But he was still rational, and his body was still human.

But why.

Why were his face, eyes, and body like this?

Didn't he look like someone who had undergone a demonization experiment to anyone who saw him?

Suddenly, a man flashed through his mind.

Min Ji-hong.

He had given him a bottle of liquor as a gift, and they drank it together on the spot.

He remembered his cheeky face, asking how the liquor tasted.

'Could it be that he...!!'

Lee Jeong-soo trembled.

But what was done was done.

He had to get out of here somehow.

'Taking advantage of the demons' distraction, I'll go to the affiliate...'

If he could just get to the affiliate that was still in New Korea, he could use the warp gate to cross over to China.

Then President Jeong Cheong and Association President Ryu Si-bo would somehow protect him.

'They won't easily abandon me.'

He had the justification and information to corner Kim Tae-hyun.

Those old political schemers would not abandon him while he still had value.

That was what he was thinking when he was about to escape into the destroyed building.

"Where are you going?"

A familiar voice was heard.

Lee Jeong-soo hurriedly turned around.

There was a face that he never wanted to meet.

"Kim...Tae-hyun..."

Lee Jeong-soo muttered as if spitting it out.

"I asked where you were going."

Smile.

Tae-hyun gave a kind smile.

But Lee Jeong-soo knew.

That that smile was no different from that of a grim reaper.

"If you... let me go... I will grant your every wish."

"How do you know what I'm going to ask for to use the word 'every' so easily?"

"......!!"

Lee Jeong-soo's face hardened at Tae-hyun's sudden change in attitude.

"Why... are you doing this... I am the father of your friend... aren't I...? Think about Jeong Jae's face..."

"Lee Jeong-jae. Did that guy also do demonization experiments?"

"Th, that's..."

"He did, he did."

Tae-hyun sighed, seeing Lee Jeong-soo, who wasn't confident.

A father who demonized even his own son.

He expected it.

But it was even more disappointing when he actually heard it.

"Don't worry. I won't kill you."

"Le, let me go to China..."

"Why would you go there? If you committed a crime in New Korea, you should receive it in New Korea."

Tae-hyun said as if it were obvious.

"Oh, and."

Tae-hyun took off his circle lenses.

"You don't have to be scared just because you have one crimson eye."

"That, that eye is...!!"

So you've been demonized too.

Tae-hyun smirked at Lee Jeong-soo's words.

"Doesn't everyone have a red eye these days?"

"What nonsense...!!"

Before Lee Jeong-soo could finish his sentence.

Ting.

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

"Quiet. Have a nightmare for a while."

Tae-hyun's red eyes flashed.

In one day, the world was turned upside down once again.

Following the incident the day before.

This time, the appearance of the demonized Chinese players was broadcast live.

Only Lee Jeong-soo was captured alive, and all 50 demons were killed on the spot.

It was as if watching a well-matched puzzle.

China expressed its anger to New Korea, asking what they had done to their players.

But China had already lost its trust.

The whole world condemned China's lies.

The Chinese government and the player association belatedly drew a line, saying it was Lee Jeong-soo's solo action.

Afterwards, Lee Jeong-soo, who seemed half-crazed, confessed the mastermind, making that excuse meaningless as well.

President Jeong Cheong condemned those who were confusing the great country and declared that he would impose trade sanctions on the countries involved.

It was a threat card that always worked, but the world's reaction was cold.

At the same time, India, which was in a territorial dispute with China, raised the level of criticism every day, and the United States and its allies raised their voices by claiming the design rights to the Gray Disease.

Fatigue accumulated by Gray Disease and the Mains.

All of those things exploded, and China was quickly isolated.

The feeling of hatred spread, and the view of Asians deteriorated.

Kim Tae-hyun's existence also renewed the view of Asians, which was also a strange thing.

Meanwhile.

In such a transitional situation, New Korea was quietly consolidating its internal affairs.

"It's been a while?"

"Well, I don't particularly feel that way."

Tae-hyun answered Yoo A-young's question nonchalantly.

"Hehe. You're still the same."

"Guild Leader Yoo A-young seems to be doing well."

Tae-hyun's words were sincere.

She had just woken up not long after being knocked out by Tae-hyun's skill before.

The reason she wasn't called to deal with the demons was partly in case of an emergency.

It was also because there was a chance that the madness would recur.

Fortunately, the madness at that time seemed to have disappeared.

'But that's only temporary.'

"This time, the scale was no joke, right?"

A-young asked, watching Tae-hyun's eyes.

"You're talking as if I caused that huge-scale incident."

"Hehehe. Well, I wonder~"

Her voice, with its nasal tone, seemed no different from usual.

"More than that, the reason you called me isn't that, is it?"

Tae-hyun was here because of information about Asisat Ebi.

Now that she had come to her senses.

He had received the content Tae-hyun had requested from Han Jeong-soo.

And just now.

It was Yoo A-young who informed him that information about Asisat Ebi had come in.

"Yes. Asisat Ebi. It's true that information about her has come in. This time, it's quite detailed information."

"As expected of Night Walker."

Yoo A-young's expression became strange at Tae-hyun's flattering words.

"Before that, there's something I want to ask you."

"What is it?"

"Kim Tae-hyun. What is your identity?"

Tae-hyun tilted his head at the sudden question.

"I don't know what you mean."

A-young took a deep breath.

"Archduke."

"......"

"Rosaria's contractor."

Very slightly.

Tae-hyun's eyes twitched.

"Tell me..."

Yoo A-young was the same.

She continued with a trembling voice.

"Who are you?"

The emotion in her voice.

It was fear.

Episode 270

"Guild Master Yoo Ah-young."

Taehyun called her name.

Yoo Ah-young's tense body flinched.

"I don't know what you're talking about. Seems like you need to explain yourself."

Yoo Ah-young's eyes trembled slightly at Taehyun's reaction.

Because she knew.

Taehyun's usual, playful manner.

'A lie.'

Now, there was no room to doubt that it was a lie.

She wasn't the only one with a good eye.

Taehyun didn't miss that moment.

"What are you afraid of?"

Taehyun asked quietly.

Even as he asked, he knew.

That he could no longer hide the Archduke from her.

'No, am I later than I thought?'

"You didn't answer my question."

"That's right."

Taehyun smiled and nodded.

"Archduke Rosaria. I am her contractor."

"……!!"

A shocking statement.

"But I am also a player of the Shinhan Empire."

And it wasn't a lie.

Taehyun wasn't as altruistic as Ji Jin-hee.

But he also wasn't the type to enjoy sacrificing others for his own gain.

Just a business relationship of giving and receiving help.

Give and take.

That was all Taehyun wanted from the Shinhan Empire.

"Since when?"

Ah-young asked back, her voice trembling.

'From the beginning.'

He wanted to answer like that.

But he couldn't open his mouth easily.

'How much does she know?'

He hadn't figured it out yet.

But eventually.

'She wants to ask about the power I showed in Jeju Island.'

That wasn't the Archduke's power, but the King's power.

More precisely, the power of the Doppelganger in the Mindscape.

If he were to lie, the trust he had built up could crumble.

But if he were to explain the origin.

'I would have to reveal everything.'

And he couldn't avoid talking about regression.

Even though she shared a lot with Taehyun.

There was no need to tell her even that.

"That's not really what you want to know, is it?"

Whether Taehyun was a monster or a demon.

That wasn't what was important to Yoo Ah-young.

There must be something really important to her.

Really.

"What do you want to know?"

The two's eyes met.

Compared to Ah-young's narrowly trembling eyes, Taehyun's eyes were unwavering.

Yoo Ah-young took Taehyun's bait.

"I hear a woman's voice."

"Rosaria's voice, I presume."

Yoo Ah-young nodded.

"Tell me. After all, the reason you were able to save me back then..."

She recalled the moment when she was attacked by Min Ji-hong and the Shadow in the Labyrinth Tartarus.

It was an injury from which she wouldn't have been strange to die.

The Labyrinth collapsed, and the memory of Taehyun was cut off.

It was from then on.

That she started hearing a voice in her head.

That Rosaria began to manipulate her desires.

Originally, Ataraxia was a skill created with Rosaria's power.

Recently, on the day Taehyun used 'Ataraxia'.

Before she had fully regained her sanity, she was able to meet Rosaria, who was coiled up in the Mindscape.

An unstable Mindscape.

She exchanged a few words there.

She learned a few secrets of the Abyss.

That Rosaria was an Archduke.

That Taehyun was her contractor.

And that she was a spare, who had incompletely inherited her power.

When her sanity fully returned, a sudden fear washed over her.

The widely rumored demonization.

She sensed that she had become no different from that.

On the screen broadcasting live, players of the Shinhan Empire, including Taehyun, were slaughtering demonized Chinese players.

Demonized players.

How much was human, and how much was demon?

What about Archduke contractors?

What about herself?

She thought Taehyun would know.

That's why she lured him to the Guild Master's office with the information about Asisat Ebi as bait.

Because there was no place as secure as this.

"Yes. I received her help."

"……!!"

Yoo Ah-young's eyes shook violently.

"But there's nothing to worry about. I received the Archduke's power, but I am still human."

"……."

"That goes for you too."

Taehyun placed his hand on Yoo Ah-young's head.

It was time to share a part of the truth that only Taehyun had been bearing in Shinhan Empire.

"Well, if you can use it correctly, it's not a bad power. If you can control it perfectly, that is."

"Control..."

Yoo Ah-young showed a weak side.

Because she didn't have the confidence to control the madness of that one moment of rampage when fighting Kasim Zolt.

"There's nothing to worry about. I won't let you become a monster."

"Hehe... You say such cheesy things so casually?"

Yoo Ah-young forced a cheerful expression.

Unlike her words, Taehyun's attitude a moment ago had been helpful.

"Then I'd like to hear about the information about Asisat Ebi."

"Hmm~ Okay. I'll tell you if you promise with the Oath of the Awakened for what you just said."

"I think I can hear it from Deputy Guild Master Jeong Han-soo, though."

"Hmm... That's difficult."

Yoo Ah-young frowned.

Taehyun, who had been silent, sighed.

He hated troublesome things.

But if he avoided her demands here, things could become more troublesome in the future.

"Okay. Let's make it. The Oath of the Awakened."

Taehyun said nonchalantly.

'I acquired the ability of the Canceler that Ricky Hallis used with the 'Demon's Heart'.'

It wasn't impossible for the current Taehyun to break the 'Oath of the Awakened' either.

'If I can just stabilize Yoo Ah-young psychologically... This much would be a benevolent lie.'

Yoo Ah-young, who didn't know that, placed the Oath of the Awakened on Taehyun.

The content of the contract.

"If I become a monster, Kim Taehyun. Kill me yourself."

"……."

Taehyun thought for a moment.

"I will."

He accepted her condition.

Yoo Ah-young's expression brightened.

Because she thought she had a solid safety net.

"It's not exactly a price to pay, but you can use the Nightwalker's information as you please."

He gains the Nightwalker in exchange for listening to a false oath.

'I feel like I've become a con artist.'

Taehyun thought for a moment.

"So where is she? Asisat Ebi."

Taehyun returned to the original business that brought him here.

"The place where Asisat Ebi is..."

From her mouth.

An unexpected place name came out.

"Cough... Cough..."

Blood came out as Kasim Zolt coughed.

"Hehe... Immortality has weakened."

Kasim Zolt chuckled as if it were someone else's business.

The secret to immortality obtained through a contract with Beelzebub.

There was no way that unbelievable power would be without any risk.

The price was a life to replace his death every moment.

And.

A new body to transfer his soul to, replacing the decaying body.

Kasim Zolt called these people sacrifices.

The body that Kasim Zolt is currently using is Zada, who was one of his disciples in the past.

The same goes for the disciples he is currently raising.

They are also all sacrifice candidates.

They were people who could transform into a second Kasim Zolt at any time.

Kasim Zolt's gaze turned to the screen hanging on the wall.

The events that had been happening in Shinhan Empire every day were being broadcast.

"Puhuhu. To try to carry out the work with such a failure. His vessel was small."

Kasim Zolt spoke about the incident caused by Lee Jeong-soo as if it were someone else's business.

Harshultan is currently in a secret contract with the Taesan Guild, the Chinese Player Association, and the Chinese government.

It was a kind of mercenary contract.

When he couldn't reach Min Ji-hong, Lee Jeong-soo contacted Kasim Zolt first.

Kasim Zolt refused, citing that his power was incomplete.

The vitality of the body had run out while fighting Yoo Ah-young in a continuous battle with an incomplete body.

Lee Jeong-soo should have waited.

Until his power completely returned.

Until he could completely tie up Kim Taehyun's hands and feet.

The appearance of Lee Jeong-soo being dragged away in a haggard state looked miserable.

It was then.

"Master."

Demon Berto came.

"Did the player bastards attack again?"

Kasim Zolt asked.

Because he knew that the World Player Association was hunting down demons like mice, with vaccines circulating.

It wouldn't be strange if this hideout in Guangzhou was discovered.

"No. A guest has arrived."

"Hoo. To come all the way here?"

If they came all the way here, they wouldn't be ordinary people.

Kasim Zolt smiled grimly at the rare guest.

He didn't bother to ask who the opponent was.

"Hehehe. Bring them in."

A moment later.

A man with a boyish face came in with a stiff expression.

"A face I remember."

Kasim Zolt said, scrutinizing the opponent's face.

"I met you once before at a villa in Shinhan Empire."

The man.

Lee Jeong-jae spoke in a tense voice.

"Yes. You were probably the son of that stupid guy over there."

Lee Jeong-jae's body twitched slightly as he confirmed the appearance of Lee Jeong-soo on the screen.

It wasn't because his father was insulted.

It was just that he had a strange feeling at the confidence of the opponent who could nonchalantly talk about the father he couldn't dare to look at.

"Yes. What reason did you come for?"

"Give me power."

"Hehe... Power to a demon... Aren't you a player? You want to walk the same path as your father."

"No. I am different from my father."

"Hoo?"

Kasim Zolt showed interest.

As if telling him to say more.

"I need the power to surpass Kim Taehyun. Like you."

"Puh... Puhahaha..."

Kasim Zolt's laughter filled the cave.

How gruesome the madness mixed in the laughter was.

Oseuseu.

It was enough to make goosebumps all over his body.

Lee Jeong-jae quietly endured the laughter.

"It seems like the gods have sent me a gift."

Kasim Zolt muttered to himself for a moment.

"Okay. I will take you as a disciple."

"……!!"

Lee Jeong-jae's eyes widened at the situation that unfolded so easily.

Because he was thinking of bearing a huge financial loss in preparation for the case where he would not be accepted.

At that time.

Kwaaaaaa.

A poisonous magic power bloomed from Kasim Zolt's body.

"Come here. I will imprint a brand on you."

To Kasim Zolt, who was smiling bitterly.

gulp.

Lee Jeong-jae swallowed dryly and entrusted himself to him.

The place Taehyun arrived at was Fenghuang in China.

Currently, the situation between China and the Shinhan Empire was not good, so it was difficult to use the warp gate.

Fortunately, Taehyun had the 'Apostle of the Gate'.

As he crossed the gate, he looked at the scene unfolding before his eyes.

"To leave the coordinates in such a remote mountain village. As expected of Nightwalker."

Taehyun praised Nightwalker's handling and used Energy Drain.

It was for magic detection.

Sure enough, there were traces of irregular magic power not far away.

Taehyun followed the traces.

Had he walked for about two hours?

He was able to find a huge barrier that was not visible to the ordinary eye.

A familiar barrier.

It was clearly Asisat Ebi's skill 'Separated World'.

The barrier was shaking unsteadily.

'Is she in battle?'

Originally, he would have used Gluttony to break through it.

But if he did, Asisat Ebi could be harmed.

Taehyun placed his hand on the barrier.

Pajik. Pajijik.

Her magic power resisted, and sparks flew.

Tiring.

[The skill Apostle of the Gate (SS) has been activated. The location has been identified.]

Kwaaaaaaa.

A round gate was created in the barrier, and Taehyun crossed it.

What he saw.

Was Min Ji-hong tearing off the arm of the battered Asisat Ebi.

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