RKP 271-280

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271

"Bastard."

Asishat Ebi spat out a curse.

The second raid by the New Korea Player Association of Harsultan.

Ever since that day.

She had been on the run from Min Ji-hong.

Min Ji-hong relentlessly drove her.

A player on the run and a demon chasing.

There wasn't much she could do in a situation where the tables had been turned.

Rather, Min Ji-hong's pursuit was subtle yet cunning.

Like a demon, he wasn't afraid of massacres in busy areas.

As a player, she had to avoid such situations as much as possible.

It felt like walking a pre-drawn path.

Day by day.

As Min Ji-hong intended, she became a rabbit trapped in a snare.

'Damn Kim Tae-hyun player.'

While cursing Tae-hyun.

In reality, it was no different from blaming herself for her mistake of visiting New Korea without any preparation.

'Should I have asked for help back then?'

Asishat Ebi belatedly regretted not requesting support from New Korea.

If she had, things might not have gone this far.

She revisited her mistake once again.

Security in New Korea had been strengthened due to the continuous terrorist attacks.

It wasn't easy to use the warp gate while shaking off Min Ji-hong.

In the end, she chose to move to China.

Because the warp gate to China was still activated due to the demons of Harsultan having crossed over.

She thought it would be relatively easy to hide, given the large landmass.

That choice was.

'A mistake.'

Only after arriving in China could she realize the power that Min Ji-hong, the demon Black Hole, possessed.

As if they had been waiting.

Numerous demons joined in the pursuit of her.

The scale wasn't small enough that the association's players should have stepped in to handle it.

But as if to help those demons.

The players of China were nowhere to be seen.

As the pursuit intensified, numerous casualties occurred due to the demons' skills.

On the surface, it was a melee that could be seen as the Chinese demons' rampage.

From Seoul, New Korea, to Fenghuang, China.

When she came to her senses, there was nowhere left to retreat.

Her unique skill, 'Separated World'.

That was why she used the skill and took root here.

'The difference in stamina is significant.'

She scanned Min Ji-hong in front of her and checked the status window.

She had barely managed to create a one-on-one situation, but even this didn't seem to offer a high chance of winning.

"Can you see death?"

Min Ji-hong mocked Asishat Ebi, who was cornered.

He could sense that the end of the long pursuit was approaching.

"Don't worry. I won't handle you roughly."

"You're spouting crazy nonsense as if it's nothing."

Asishat Ebi chuckled and retorted.

Contrary to her words, her body was already battered.

She had already used all the potions and scrolls she had brought.

She had also used up everything she had seized from the demons.

'Even if I were to defeat that guy... there's no way I could shake off the demons chasing outside...'

Before she could finish her thought.

"I promise. If you defeat me, there will be no pursuit from the demons."

Min Ji-hong declared.

'Is this bastard a mind reader or something?'

Before she knew it, Min Ji-hong's eyes had turned crimson.

Asishat Ebi was the same.

Two pairs of crimson eyes gleamed as they scanned each other's bodies.

"How can I trust that?"

SS-rank skill 'Azure Dragon's Scale'.

She asked, pouting her lips, her body wrapped in immense power.

"I don't like information being passed to China either. I would be grateful if you surrendered willingly. How about it?"

"Bullshit."

Asishat Ebi raised her middle finger as if there was no need to think about it.

Smirk.

Min Ji-hong's lips curved upwards.

"I thought you'd say that."

Mana was emitted from Min Ji-hong's body.

He had already warmed up enough while chasing her all the way here.

'Separated World'.

'Majestic Aura of the Dragon Demon'.

'Azure Dragon's Scale'.

It took longer than expected due to the tricky skills, but.

Today would be the last day for that too.

"Struggle until the very end."

Ding.

[Skill Black Hole (SS) has been activated.]

[Skill Heart of the Demonic Beast (SS) has been activated.]

Ding.

[Skill Majestic Aura of the Dragon Demon (SS) has been activated.]

[Skill Azure Dragon's Scale (SS) has been activated.]

Four skills were used.

It didn't take long for Asishat Ebi's arm to be torn off.

Bleeding occurred from the torn arm.

It was the second time.

'Min Ji-hong... is also like Kim Tae-hyun player...'

The words Tae-hyun had said came to mind again.

That she was looking down on the other Great Duke Contractors.

'Tch. He's really not like a child.'

If she were to die here today.

It would be the price for not taking the advice seriously.

The only good thing was that Black Hole was trying to capture her alive.

'I guess I'm really going to get caught today...'

All that was left was a skill berserk.

She had never actually used it before.

But.

'I have no choice but to bet on this.'

Because there was no other way to inflict meaningful damage on that strong body.

She could only hope that, as he said, there weren't any demons waiting outside the barrier.

Crack.

Min Ji-hong threw the torn arm to the side and approached.

"I hate stalking."

"Let's call it protection."

Brown mana scattered from Min Ji-hong's body as he said that.

"From the looks of it, you seem to be trying to berserk your skill."

"……!!"

"Your judgment was slow."

Whoosh.

Min Ji-hong instantly rushed towards her.

'Fast!!'

"I didn't get faster."

Grab.

"……!!"

Min Ji-hong's hand touched her shoulder.

And.

"You're just slower."

Crack!!

A fierce touch tore off her other arm.

Asishat Ebi involuntarily screamed.

'Separated World' and 'Azure Dragon's Scale'.

The two skills she had been maintaining wavered.

At the same time, there was a sign of intrusion into the barrier.

'Is this the end.'

It must be the demon that had been guarding outside the barrier coming in.

She could see a future where she would be captured by Min Ji-hong and dragged to Orgall.

Crack.

Min Ji-hong, who was no different from a monster, grabbed her head and lifted it.

He could have burst her head as it was if he wanted to.

People instinctively change in the face of death.

'Why does it have to be...'

Why does that man come to mind?

A player of the same nationality as the demon trying to kill her, who trampled on her as much as Black Hole.

"Damn Kim Tae-hyun."

It was the moment her vision blurred from the grip tightening on her head.

Crack!!

Thud.

She belatedly opened her eyes after Min Ji-hong dropped her from his hand.

Because she felt the sensation of the floor.

And in front of her.

There was a man she hadn't expected.

"Asishat Ebi. I guess you missed me a lot?"

Grin.

Tae-hyun, engulfed in crimson mana, raised the corners of his lips.

He was looking down at her.

Min Ji-hong, who had retreated, looked at his torn right arm.

He had achieved complete fusion and become a body comparable to an SSS-rank monster.

But that arm.

'Is it being torn off this easily?'

Devouring (捕食).

That was the name he had given to the ferocious mana after a few battles.

Just as his skill 'Black Hole' was a higher form of power that devoured numerous skills.

Tae-hyun's skill 'Devouring' was the highest form of power that even devoured his skills.

'It will take a little longer to regenerate.'

Min Ji-hong thought as he checked the status window.

The new skill 'Heart of the Demonic Beast' was created when he came to control the body of the SSS-rank monster.

With this power, it wouldn't take long to manifest super-speed regeneration.

In other words.

He needs to buy time.

That was the same for Tae-hyun.

Tear.

The scroll tore and a white swirl of light enveloped Asishat Ebi.

Soon, the bleeding from both torn arms stopped, and the crushed bones were put back together.

"You're too late."

Asishat Ebi pouted her lips and said.

"Didn't I tell you to wait until I came to pick you up?"

She fell silent, unable to say anything to Tae-hyun's questioning.

"Rest. Until I deal with that guy."

Only then did Tae-hyun look at Min Ji-hong.

In that short time.

The torn arm had regenerated.

"I didn't expect you to come."

Min Ji-hong said, sneering.

They were at opposing points as demon and player.

On the one hand, they were both from the same New Korea and had the commonality of being Great Duke Contractors.

Ironically.

He was also the one who understood Tae-hyun's situation better than anyone else.

But it was as if he didn't care about such things.

"Are you talking about the Gray Disease? Or are you talking about Kasim Zolt?"

Tae-hyun muttered nonchalantly.

"……."

Min Ji-hong sensed that something was wrong with Tae-hyun's confidence.

The players weakened by the Gray Disease.

And Kim Tae-hyun, who should be in New Korea in a situation where he could be attacked at any time.

He had turned off most of his contacts while chasing Asishat Ebi.

Likewise, he had handed over control of the demons to Kasim Zolt.

It was out of the thought of focusing all his efforts on this matter.

The variable was Asishat Ebi's skill and resistance, which were stronger than he had thought.

'I've wasted too much time. Could a vaccine have been developed?'

If so, it was happening too quickly for his thoughts.

"How long are you going to keep using the Gray Disease?"

Tae-hyun said as if he could see right through Min Ji-hong's thoughts.

"...Well, it doesn't matter. Orgall wants you too."

Brown mana gushed out from Min Ji-hong's body.

It wasn't just the mana that had been strengthened.

The mana spewing out from 'Heart of the Demonic Beast' wrapped around Min Ji-hong's body.

Orgall's authority, Enhancement.

He had wrapped that power all over his body.

Ding.

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

[Skill Eyes of the Higher Species (SS) has been activated.]

[Skill Demonization (SS) has been activated. Specifying the imitation area.]

Two skills were linked and additional effects occurred.

At the same time.

Min Ji-hong's hand blade from top to bottom.

Swung aiming for Tae-hyun's head.

Likewise, Tae-hyun's hand from bottom to top.

Swung aiming for Min Ji-hong's neck.

New Korea Ancient Martial Arts Form 1 Taebaek.

The barrier rippled from the wave created by the two bare hands colliding.

The barrier user who was watching the scene from afar.

Asishat Ebi's mouth opened slightly.

'Authority is authority after all.'

Tae-hyun thought as he dodged Min Ji-hong's attack.

Min Ji-hong, who had transplanted the body of a monster, was no longer an ambiguous existence.

As he had felt from Cody Cruz before.

'Both this guy and that guy are just enlightened guys.'

Each and every blow from the guy who used Orgall's power and ancient martial arts was heavy.

It had been a long time since he had been pushed back in a physical fight against a human.

"Your ancient martial arts seem quite familiar."

Amid overwhelming superiority.

Min Ji-hong praised Tae-hyun's ancient martial arts.

He mixes the New Korea's with China's and uses it as if it were his own.

Tae-hyun, who had created distance, chuckled.

"The Association President told me to give you a punch in his place if I met you."

"……."

With those words, Tae-hyun's momentum changed.

New Korea Ancient Martial Arts Form 7 Plains.

He was controlling mana to use Ji Jin-hee's technique.

"The preparation movement is unnecessarily long."

It was Min Ji-hong's simple evaluation as he watched the scene.

It's not wrong.

But.

Ding.

[Skill Stealth (SS) has been activated.]

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

Ssss.

For a moment, Tae-hyun's body disappeared.

He appeared behind Min Ji-hong.

'Stealth' and 'Apostle of Darkness'.

"I know that skill well too..."

It was the moment Min Ji-hong was about to strike Tae-hyun's face as a counter.

Ding.

[Skill Majestic Aura of the Dragon Demon (SS) has been activated. Specifying the target. Mana consumption is accelerated.]

Krrr!!

"……!!"

Asishat Ebi's skill momentarily disturbed Min Ji-hong's movement.

That was enough.

Tae-hyun's tightly clenched fist and straight palm touched Min Ji-hong's abdomen.

Bang.

"Keup...!!"

The fist, which is the principle of economy, and the palm, which is the principle of Bagua.

The two techniques hit perfectly.

At the same time.

"Cough..."

Min Ji-hong, who had fallen into reverse flow, began to vomit blood.

Episode 272

The balance of power began to shift dramatically.

The Ancient Korean Martial Arts Seventh Form, Plains, struck Min Ji-hong.

It was from the start of that technique that the magical power backflow began.

Plains is not easy to land, but its power is proven.

Therefore.

It was safe to say that the balance of the fight had already tilted.

'Not bad.'

Tae-hyun glanced at Asisat Evi as he struck Min Ji-hong's jaw.

Even without her help, Tae-hyun had a few more tricks up his sleeve.

He could have moved a few more times with 'Apostle of Darkness'.

Or use 'Apocalypse' to create an opening in his defenses.

Or disrupt him with 'Devour'.

No matter what he did, Min Ji-hong would not have been able to stop Tae-hyun's offensive in the end.

But it was also undeniable that her help was appropriate.

Thanks to her, he also saved magic power.

'I was able to end this boring standoff like this.'

Clang.

Ancient Chinese Martial Arts Fifth Form, Penetration.

Min Ji-hong's body was knocked away in a pathetic state by Tae-hyun's fist.

He was unable to defend properly because he was paying attention to the magic power backflow.

He didn't seem to have the mental capacity to use his specialty, Ancient Martial Arts.

Ancient Chinese Martial Arts Sixth Form, Mythical Realm.

'Shall I capture him?'

Bang!!

Ancient Korean Martial Arts Sixth Form, Ten Formation.

'Shall I devour him as is?'

Bang!!

From the successive impacts.

Thud.

One of Min Ji-hong's knees buckled.

Even during that time, Tae-hyun had not yet decided on his disposition.

If he were to 'Devour' him.

He might be able to gain stats and skills.

Of course, if he wanted to aim for the skills as well, he would have to push him into a more desperate situation.

In any case, it was highly likely that he would ultimately obtain 'Black Hole'.

'Besides, there's a lot of information I can get from him.'

He was a contractor of Orgal, no less.

If he could capture him properly and interrogate him sufficiently with 'Ataraxia'?

Like Shadow, he would be able to find out information that could not be valued.

The 고민 didn't last long.

Capture him.

'So. I need to trample on him a little more.'

Thoroughly, to the point where he can't even regain consciousness, let alone 초고속 재생.

'I need to break him.'

Ting.

[Skill Apocalypse (SS) has been activated. Targeting the subject. Magic power consumption is accelerated.]

Swish. Swish.

Darkness descended and began to constrict Min Ji-hong's body.

He, who was busy controlling the backflow, had no choice but to surrender himself to the chains.

'Energy Drain' was activated along the chain.

That power would hinder 초고속 재생, but Tae-hyun didn't think he would give up that easily.

That's why.

Ting.

[Skill Blood Frenzy (SS) has been activated.]

Crimson magic power bloomed.

[A great power awakens. Strength increases. Strength is now 372(382).]

[A great power awakens. Stamina increases. Stamina is now 376(381).]

[A great power awakens. Speed increases. Speed is now 372(382).]

[A great power awakens. Magic power increases. Magic power is now 540(550).]

Following 'Apocalypse', 'Blood Frenzy'.

Muscles, influenced by the two skills, swelled up.

'The stats themselves don't seem to increase much.'

However, even a difference of 1 was enough to feel a sufficient increase effect.

A considerable load pressed down on his body.

Ancient Korean Martial Arts First Form, Taebaek.

Crack.

Min Ji-hong's shoulder was broken by Tae-hyun's hand blade.

That was the beginning.

Ancient Korean Martial Arts Second Form, Sankyung.

Bang.

Ancient Korean Martial Arts Fourth Form, Palgwae.

Clang.

Ancient Korean Martial Arts Fifth Form, Goryeo.

Thud.

Min Ji-hong's body shook from the one-sided attack.

It was a difficult impact to withstand with a restrained body where the backflow had started.

"Keuh..."

Min Ji-hong let out a groan mixed with pain.

Regardless.

Crack. Crack. Crack.

Tae-hyun constantly trampled on Min Ji-hong.

It was an overwhelming and destructive act to the point that Asisat Evi, who was watching, trembled.

Lastly.

Thwack.

Tae-hyun stabbed his hand into the place where Min Ji-hong's heart was.

He aimed for the moment when that solid body was constantly crushed and became soft.

Quadeuk!!

Tae-hyun pulled out the throbbing heart.

'He's a demonized creature anyway.'

He knows that he won't die even if a human heart is broken.

Still.

Ting.

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

Quaddeuk. Quadeuk.

Eudeuk. Eudeuk.

The dark red magic power that bloomed above the blood-colored magic power voraciously devoured Min Ji-hong's heart.

Ting.

[Devoured a huge amount of magic power. Magic power increases by 1.]

[Devoured a huge amount of magic power. Stamina increases by 1.]

A pleasant message appeared before his eyes.

Conversely, Min Ji-hong's body, which had lost its heart.

Thud.

Could only fall forward.

"Get up."

Tae-hyun said to the fallen Min Ji-hong.

Because he knows he's not dead.

"Cough... Keu... Keuk..."

Min Ji-hong spat out blood.

He wasn't dead, but it was the heart that originally formed the center of his body.

There was no way there wouldn't be an impact from such a thing being destroyed.

"Don't worry. I won't kill you easily."

"Keuk... Keuk..."

At Tae-hyun's declaration, Min Ji-hong laughed along with the blood.

A one-sided defeat with no room for excuses.

He didn't even feel like making excuses for the overwhelming difference.

He just regretted his lack of strength.

'Damn... Why is it so...'

"Kim Tae-hyun Player. It seems like the match is over."

Asisat Evi, who had already approached, looked down at the ruined Min Ji-hong and said.

He was destroyed to a degree that was incomparable to having her arms torn off.

It made her feel foolish to have challenged such a person.

But.

"That last statement was a mistake."

"Yes?"

Asisat Evi looked at Tae-hyun as if asking what he meant.

Tae-hyun shook his head at her.

"If you say something like that, even the guy who was about to die will come back to life."

"Haha. What nonsense... Huh?"

Her body flinched.

Min Ji-hong's body, which was crawling on the floor, began to be enveloped in purple magic power.

Chi-iiii.

From the momentarily explosively toxic magic power, Tae-hyun grabbed her by the back of the neck and stepped back.

"What is this..."

Unlike Asisat Evi, Tae-hyun wasn't particularly flustered.

'He's a guy who joined hands with Kasim Zolt.'

He could easily have predicted that he would have some kind of safety device in place.

But.

'I didn't expect it to be like this.'

Kaaaaa.

Tae-hyun muttered as he looked at the black gate that opened behind Min Ji-hong.

A man walked out of the gate.

"Keuk keuk keuk. I see some interesting faces."

That was.

Kasim Zolt.

Kasim Zolt looked at the fallen Min Ji-hong.

"Hoo. This is amazing."

He wasn't just being polite.

Min Ji-hong is a strong man who is difficult for even himself to defeat for sure.

Unlike the immortal himself, he has a good balance of body and skills.

The tricky skill 'Black Hole'.

Plus, a strong body inherited from Orgal's authority.

Ancient martial arts manifested from that body.

For such a man to be lying here in such a battered state.

If the skill he put on has been activated.

'Was the heart destroyed?'

Keuk keuk keuk.

Kasim Zolt let out a sinister laugh once again.

"He's a really interesting guy."

Kasim Zolt, who said that, looked at Tae-hyun and Min Ji-hong alternately.

Rosaria's contractor, Kim Tae-hyun.

And.

"There's one more interesting guy."

His gaze rested on Asisat Evi.

Although she didn't have both arms, he instantly saw that she was the contractor of Hazard that Min Ji-hong was chasing.

"Ew. Disgusting."

Asisat Evi said that and hid behind Tae-hyun.

She knows that even if she fights Kasim Zolt with her current body, she won't be able to beat him.

"Cough... If you came... Shouldn't you... Stop the bleeding..."

Min Ji-hong muttered in a voice full of phlegm.

"Keuk keuk keuk."

Thwack.

Just like Tae-hyun did.

Kasim Zolt's hand pierced Min Ji-hong's body.

Zzuuk. Zzuuk.

Following the pierced hand, black magic power flowed in.

'That's...'

Energy Drain.

It was the reaction when applying such 'Energy Drain' to pass on his magic power to the opponent.

Kasim Zolt, like Ricky Hallis or Tae-hyun, has also mastered various applications of magic power.

His magic power flowed into Min Ji-hong's one remaining heart.

Into the magic stone.

And.

Ting.

[Skill Demon Heart (SS) has been enhanced. Magic power consumption is accelerated.]

Quaddeudeuk. Quadeuk.

The 초고속 재생 that had stopped.

The body that had been torn apart by Tae-hyun began to take its original form.

In an instant, his appearance became clean.

If it weren't for the tattered clothes, it would be hard to believe that he had just been in a battle.

'He's gotten stronger.'

Tae-hyun thought that as he looked at the magic power that was a mixture of brown magic power and black magic power.

"It's 2 vs 2."

Min Ji-hong and Kasim Zolt can do their best, but it will be difficult to expect help from Asisat Evi.

"What should we do?"

She asked with a hardened expression.

"I think we should release the barrier."

"But if we do that..."

"Don't worry. There were no demons on the way here."

"Then we..."

Are we running away?

She didn't ask that.

But Tae-hyun, who understood the meaning, shook his head.

"Shouldn't we call for reliable reinforcements too?"

"Reinforcements?"

She was puzzled, but quickly canceled 'Separated World'.

As soon as the barrier disappeared, the original scenery quickly caught her eye.

"Um? Don't tell me you're just going to run away like this?"

Kasim Zolt tilted his head as if he was puzzled.

That's because he doesn't want to miss Tae-hyun, whom he met after a long time.

As he was about to use 'Dystopia' while slashing through the chains.

Kaaaaa.

Dark red magic power bloomed from Tae-hyun's body.

"There's no way I'd leave good prey behind and run away."

Tae-hyun ridiculed the two demons who were confident even with him in front of them.

"Keuk keuk. I hope your confidence will live up to my expectations. It's not often that four Archduke contractors gather."

"You're wrong."

"Um...?"

Leaving Kasim Zolt and Min Ji-hong's questions behind.

Tae-hyun used a skill.

Ting.

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

'Ash-colored magic power.'

He recalled that mysterious magic power he had marked before.

Powerful, divine, and insidious.

It wasn't difficult to pinpoint its location among the many magic powers.

That power was so special.

[Location has been identified.]

[Targeting the subject.]

Just like Min Ji-hong did.

Kaaaaa.

A huge gate was created behind Tae-hyun.

And.

Pajik. Pajijik.

A man walked out, sparking.

Cody Cruise.

Archduke Lucifer's contractor and the best ally Tae-hyun could call.

"......"

"......"

Looking at the silent two demons.

"Let's start the second half. Demons."

Tae-hyun showed a confident smile.

"This is another unexpected situation."

Kasim Zolt belatedly muttered.

"I agree."

Cody Cruise, who belatedly grasped the situation, agreed.

With his sudden summons, all five Archduke contractors gathered here.

And from now on.

A fierce battle was about to unfold.

"You always get caught up in interesting incidents."

"Don't you like it?"

"No. This time it's not bad."

With those words, skills were used without anyone starting first.

Ting.

[Skill Dystopia (SS) has been activated. Does not target the subject.]

[Skill Black Hole (SS) has been activated.]

[Skill Falling Angel (SS) has been activated.]

[Skill Apocalypse (SS) has been enhanced. Magic power consumption is accelerated.]

[Skill Azure Dragon's Scale (SS) has been enhanced. Magic power consumption is accelerated.]

Feng Huang, China.

The magic powers of the five Archduke contractors collided there.

Chapter 273

SS-rank skills clashed alongside the magic of the five Great Dukes contractors.

In that brief opening, each side reorganized their forces.

Min Ji-hong and Cody Cruz channeled their magic to unleash their maximum power instantly. Tae-hyun and Asishat Ebi used new skills to block Kasim Zolt's second skill, "Devil Gate."

Patzzeuk.

The half-opened gate closed.

It was due to the enhanced "Apocalypse" and "Majestic Aura of the Dragon Lord."

"Not just one, I see."

Kasim Zolt smirked ominously for a moment.

Tae-hyun looked up.

A new gate was opening in the sky.

'A double gate?'

How skilled did you have to be to pull off such a feat?

Even Tae-hyun, who thought his magic control was at its peak,

Felt a chilling sensation.

Monsters poured out of the opened gate.

S to SS-rank.

Not something those gathered here couldn't handle.

However.

'If I leave it like this, it'll be a mess.'

In a battle like this, even a small opening could lead to fatal injury.

Just as Tae-hyun was about to use "Devour" on the gate,

"Leave that to me."

Asishat Ebi said, stepping forward.

Tting.

[Skill 'Majestic Aura of the Dragon Lord (SS)' has been activated. Target not specified.]

Kugugugung.

A 'gigantic aura,' different from anything seen before, radiated from Asishat Ebi's body.

The authority of the Great Duke Hazard.

A power only contractors could inherit was being used.

The movements of the monsters exiting the gate stopped.

"I can't use it for long. In that time, that old geezer..."

Asishat Ebi frowned, unable to finish her sentence.

The number of monsters pouring out was more than she had expected.

Even so.

'I can trust her with this.'

Kkaang.

Tae-hyun knocked away Kasim Zolt's staff, which had been thrown at Asishat Ebi, with his hand.

Even though her arms had been torn off, she was still skilled enough to take down SS+ rank monsters single-handedly.

As long as magic backlash didn't occur, she could definitely handle it.

Over there, Cody Cruz and Min Ji-hong were already locked in battle.

'This guy is my opponent, then.'

Tae-hyun stared at Kasim Zolt, who was grinning ominously as if he was enjoying himself.

"This is an honor. For you to face me directly. Not only have I found a new research material, but I'll be capturing three Great Dukes contractors..."

He muttered to himself with a sinister expression.

He looked exactly like a madman.

Tae-hyun wordlessly downed a magic potion.

"Apocalypse" was still clashing with "Dystopia."

Maintaining these, along with a few other skills, was consuming a significant amount of magic.

'I need to get closer to use Energy Drain.'

Trying it haphazardly during a magic battle could risk a reverse backlash.

Just as Tae-hyun was thinking this and reading the flow of magic,

"That look. You seem to be looking at me like an insect."

Kasim Zolt looked at Tae-hyun with a cunning smirk.

"How did you know?"

Tae-hyun didn't deny it, scanning the man's body.

'I could see a poisonous magic flowing through the Eye of the Higher Being.'

He was excessively calm for the situation.

Suddenly, his battle with Jormungandr came to mind.

'Should I test it?'

Tting.

[Unique skill 'Devour (SS)' has been activated.]

A crimson maw was created beneath Tae-hyun's feet.

Along with the message that the 'Heart of the Higher Being,' 'Eye of the Higher Being,' and 'Devour' had been synchronized.

Several parts of the man's body were painted red.

This meant the areas where Devour was fully possible in the current situation.

'I knew it.'

A smile formed on Tae-hyun's face as he confirmed his hypothesis.

The magic he was emitting certainly wasn't that great.

'But I can't kill him completely by devouring him like this.'

Or there was a high chance he had another body like last time.

Either way.

There seemed to be no need to waste magic using Devour.

'I'll target him at the opportune moment.'

Tae-hyun thought, canceling Devour.

"Why? If you're thinking of capturing me alive..."

"I'm not."

He was serious.

'I hate to admit it.'

Unlike Min Ji-hong, Kasim Zolt had obtained a power close to immortality.

Trying to capture him alive could lead to even greater sacrifices.

"Kekekeke. Do as you please. I will devote myself to capturing you."

"You're delusional."

Another step.

Tae-hyun approached Kasim Zolt, activating a skill.

Tting.

[Skill 'Apostle of Darkness (SS)' has been activated. Specifies form.]

Seusesuseut.

A black-bladed dagger was created in Tae-hyun's hand.

And.

Tting.

[Skill 'Apostle of Darkness (SS)' has been activated. Specifies location.]

Seusesuseut.

The moment Tae-hyun's body seemed to be sucked into the darkness,

Puuk.

Tae-hyun, who had sprung up from beneath Kasim Zolt's feet, stabbed him straight in the chest.

Exactly where a human heart should be.

A fatal attack for an ordinary demon, but.

Teoeok.

Kasim Zolt calmly grabbed the hand holding the dagger.

'Of course, it wouldn't be that easy.'

Eudeuk.

Tae-hyun shook off Kasim Zolt's hand.

And.

Pipipipipit.

In an instant, a barrage of attacks unfolded at point-blank range.

Kasim Zolt's body was instantly turned into a tattered mess.

No matter who he was, he couldn't face Tae-hyun at this distance.

Seogeok.

Tae-hyun's dagger cleanly severed his neck.

Degururu.

A pair of red eyes rolled across the floor.

And.

His mouth opened.

"Is... it... done?"

"No."

Kwajik.

Tae-hyun stomped on his head.

Contrary to his words, he knew this wasn't enough.

'His magic stone is definitely somewhere here.'

The body moving with an ordinary heart was likely a decoy.

"You're not surprised."

The man's voice was heard from within Dystopia.

That was also a decoy.

Tae-hyun expanded his senses.

The magic fluctuations created by Min Ji-hong and Cody Cruz clashing.

The magic fluctuations created by Asishat Ebi using her skill.

And.

"......!!"

He hurriedly turned his head towards the gate.

Behind the gate, out of Asishat Ebi's sight.

The monsters emerging from the gate were gathering together.

Tae-hyun hurriedly threw his dagger towards them.

The dagger, flying like lightning, aimed for the exact center of the corpse of a monster forming a single shape.

Specifically, the place where the magic stone was.

However.

Kwadeuk.

The monster's clumsy hand easily caught the dagger.

Geugeuk. Geugeugeugeuk.

The dagger made of 'Apostle of Darkness' was crushed by the grip.

[There's no need for a human body to activate a skill.]

Kasim Zolt spoke in the language of monsters.

He had succeeded in the skill 'Demonization' in a way no one had ever heard of.

'I have to admit it.'

At least when it came to handling magic, he was better than him.

Moreover, the magic he felt was unlike anything before.

'SSS-rank.'

He had become an SSS-rank monster himself, using the bodies of Higher Being monsters as materials.

Seusesuseseu.

The atmosphere of the battlefield changed.

A dagger identical to Tae-hyun's was created in the man's hand.

And.

Swaeaek.

The dagger flew towards Tae-hyun's heart.

Kkaang.

Tae-hyun hurriedly created another sword to deflect it.

Although he had released 'Beast Transformation' and 'Blood Frenzy.'

Jjirirreureu.

Tae-hyun's hand, which had deflected the sword, was visibly trembling.

And in an instant.

Kwadeuk.

"Keok...!!"

Asishat Ebi's body, who was belatedly trying to focus her aura, was lifted into the air.

Kasim Zolt had struck her body with an unidentified tail.

'Damn.'

There was no way Asishat Ebi, who was missing both arms, could block the next attack.

Using the skill 'Azure Dragon's Scales' would prevent her from dying, but.

If she allowed the attack, it would be difficult to avoid serious injuries.

Tting.

[Skill 'Beast Transformation (SS)' has been activated. Specifies mimicry location.]

Kwaddeudeu.

Kwajik!!

Kasim Zolt's fist fell on Tae-hyun's arm, which was guarding.

The ground beneath his feet caved in from the heavy impact.

[What a kind man. Our Kim Tae-hyun player.]

The man mocked with an unfitting face.

Puuk.

The man's sharply honed hand pierced Tae-hyun's abdomen.

"......!!"

A handful of blood flowed from Tae-hyun's mouth.

Kasim Zolt clicked his tongue.

[But you must also know how to be vile at times.]

Chiijijik.

Purple magic rose from the demonized man's body.

He was trying to use poison, the authority of Beelzebub.

[Don't worry. You won't die even if your arms and legs melt away. Ah, if you want, you can also obtain an immortal body...]

Teoeok.

Tae-hyun grabbed Kasim Zolt's arm.

"What are you babbling about since earlier?"

Tting.

[Skill 'Devil's Saliva (SS)' has been activated. Specifies target. Magic consumption is accelerated.]

Chiijijik. Chiijik.

Purple magic rose from Tae-hyun's body.

[Hooh, this power is...]

Just as Kasim Zolt was about to express his surprise,

A power struggle between two contractors using poisonous magic began.

Beelzebub's magic was clashing at point-blank range.

There was no spark between the same 'Root Magic.'

Only the phenomenon of the stronger side trying to absorb the weaker side's magic occurred.

Because of this, Tae-hyun and Kasim Zolt had no choice but to gradually increase their magic.

"Is Beelzebub doing well?"

Tae-hyun asked, reinforcing 'Devil's Saliva.'

[Kekekeke. I wondered how you managed to develop the vaccine. So this was the cause.]

Kasim Zolt burst into wild laughter.

He had created a variant with his magic.

The alchemists had created a vaccine for such a gray plague?

At first, he thought it was nonsense.

Who could interpret the magic of himself, the contractor of Beelzebub?

But with the divine power Tae-hyun was showing now, it wasn't impossible.

He was using the power as if he were the contractor of Beelzebub himself.

If he wasn't the real contractor, he would have been mistaken for an expert control.

[The more I know, the more I want that body.]

Kasim Zolt said, not hiding his ulterior motive.

[But you are just a fake.]

"Well, how about this."

Tting.

[Skill 'Energy Drain (SS)' has been activated. Specifies target. Magic consumption is accelerated.]

The two purple magics that were in a power struggle were sucked into Tae-hyun's body.

Then.

[Absorbed a huge amount of magic. Magic increases by 1.]

[Absorbed a huge amount of magic. Stamina increases by 1.]

Unlike Tae-hyun, who was becoming stronger, Kasim Zolt's magic was weakening.

And he could see it.

Between the magic and magic.

The man's magic stone, shining dimly.

'It's here.'

Tae-hyun used Blood Frenzy to boost his physical stats.

The 7th form of Ancient Korean Martial Arts, Plains.

Just like he did with Min Ji-hong.

Tae-hyun's fist, beastified, and his straightened palm touched Kasim Zolt's abdomen.

Jjeoeeeong!!

The fist of the principle of hardness and the palm of the principle of Bagua.

The two techniques overlapped, and Kasim Zolt's body showed signs of reverse flow.

After a while.

Tae-hyun's ancient martial arts began to strike Kasim Zolt's body.

Chapter 274

It didn't take long for Taehyun to completely subdue Kasim Zolt.

Just like Min Ji-hong.

Once the backlash had begun, the match was as good as decided.

The ancient martial arts secret technique created by Ji Jin-hee.

It was passed on to Taehyun and showed efficiency beyond imagination.

Crack!!

Shin Han-guk Ancient Martial Arts, 6th Form, Ten Directions.

The repeatedly used 'Demon Hand Transformation' and 'Blood Frenzy'.

The two skills overlapped, crushing the head of Kasim Zolt, who had 'Demonized'.

In that gap.

Thwack.

Taehyun extracted the mana stone from the guy.

Demon blood splattered on his face.

[Khahaha… ha… ha….]

Kasim Zolt made a sound that was somewhere between a scream and a laugh.

"You're still a long way off from trying close combat."

Having said that, Taehyun was about to devour him this time.

Clang!!

"……!!"

A demon's fist struck down on Taehyun's guard.

It was Min Ji-hong's.

Min Ji-hong grabbed Kasim Zolt's body and retreated.

Cody Cruz belatedly stood beside Taehyun.

"My apologies."

He had missed Min Ji-hong, hindering the perfect opportunity to finish off Kasim Zolt.

It was an apology for that.

"You'll have to make up for it."

Taehyun said, watching Min Ji-hong and Kasim Zolt.

"I will."

Cody Cruz nodded in response.

"I'm here too, you know."

Asisat Ebi staggered towards the two.

Her expression wasn't good, perhaps because she had taken a blow from Kasim Zolt earlier.

Tring.

[Skill Separated World (S) has been activated.]

She used her skill, albeit weakly, to block their escape route.

They had scattered for a moment, but.

Everyone was in a terrible state from their respective battles.

Asisat Ebi, in particular, would begin to backfire if she didn't get treatment soon.

'I need to end this soon.'

Tring.

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

Rumble.

A giant maw unfolded into the realm of 'Apocalypse'.

At the same time, the state of Min Ji-hong and Kasim Zolt visible to the 'Eye of the Superior Species' was different from before.

Min Ji-hong seemed capable of being completely devoured, and Kasim Zolt also had a semi-divine body part that could be devoured.

Smirk.

'Shall we have a meal somewhere?'

Unlike Taehyun, who was tightening the noose around his prey.

"……!!"

"……."

Cody Cruz and Asisat Ebi were startled by the heinous technique.

The grown Taehyun revealed his teeth.

They felt a power from that unidentifiable maw that couldn't be compared to when he fought them.

[Heh heh…. This is our complete defeat….]

Kasim Zolt muttered quietly.

Min Ji-hong was the same.

They knew it.

That if things continued this way, they would only be swallowed by Taehyun's skill.

"Escape. Is it possible?"

At Min Ji-hong's words, Kasim Zolt smirked bitterly.

[That damn barrier is active. Not good news for us.]

Kim Taehyun and Cody Cruz wouldn't just stand by while Asisat Ebi's 'Separated World' was being broken.

Similarly, fighting those two at this point was the same as giving up on escape.

"……."

Min Ji-hong, who knew the meaning of this, remained silent.

He thought that his complacent response had created this situation.

[Heh heh…. You have a serious face, not like you. Don't worry. It seems possible to manage about one person.]

With that said, Kasim Zolt gathered mana in his demonized hand.

And suddenly.

Thwack.

He pierced Min Ji-hong's body with his sharply transformed fingernails.

"……!!"

Gag.

Min Ji-hong vomited blood for a moment.

[Hehehe. I'll be sure to repay this debt later.]

Whoosh.

Kasim Zolt's purple mana engulfed Cody Cruz's body.

Taehyun belatedly realized what his actions meant.

'I won't let him get away!!'

The mana of Devour ate away at Kasim Zolt's barrier and rapidly narrowed.

[Target has been specified.]

Thump.

Eating the barrier.

Eventually, a giant maw bit Kasim Zolt's leg.

And.

Crunch!!!

His leg was torn off in vain.

The leg was just the beginning.

Crunch. Crunch.

Leg. Torso. Arm.

Important body parts were torn off in an instant.

[Hehehe…. Kim Taehyun… we will meet again.]

He didn't look like a dying man.

Kasim Zolt still smiled sinisterly, showing composure.

Moment.

Rumble.

A suddenly appearing gate swallowed Min Ji-hong and Kasim Zolt.

The maw of Devour rammed its teeth into the gate.

Crunch. Crunch. Crunch.

For a moment, the gate was torn apart with an eerie sound.

'Did I miss one?'

Thud.

Kasim Zolt's arm fell.

"I don't want to see you again."

That was the end.

Gnashing.

Kasim Zolt's last body part was devoured by the mana of Devour.

Tring.

[Skill Devil Gate (SS) has been registered.]

[The demonic power of Summoning Skill Beelzebub (SS) has changed.]

'I missed Min Ji-hong, but this is unexpected.'

If he had devoured Min Ji-hong back then, his skill should have been registered as well.

Still, he got Kasim Zolt's skill that Taehyun had coveted.

Giving up one and getting one was not a bad deal.

That's what Taehyun was thinking when.

"Amazing. Could that be…."

The contracted Archduke.

Is it Rozaria's power?

Taehyun grinned at Cody Cruz's question.

"Everyone has a secret or two."

"……."

It meant not to ask anymore.

Cody Cruz pondered the words that were neither affirmative nor negative.

"Are you alright?"

"Whew. I really almost died. I need to take a bath right now…."

"Let's move. The Chinese side will have noticed by now."

Asisat Ebi canceled her skill 'Separated World'.

Creak. Creak.

Crack.

The barrier shattered with cracks.

And there was an unexpected face there.

"What brings you here?"

The Five-Starred Red Flag, symbolizing Chinese players.

And there was a man in uniform with a mark representing the affiliated guild in front of them.

Taehyun asked him as if he was surprised.

The man's face hardened.

"I'm asking you. Lee Jeong-jae."

At Taehyun's prodding.

Lee Jeong-jae's hardened face twisted like an evil spirit.

"Do you know each other?"

"Friends, you could say."

"Ah. Is that the heir of the Taesan Group?"

Asisat Ebi recalled a photo she had seen when investigating Taehyun's surroundings.

Lee Jeong-jae had quite a dangerous look in his eyes compared to then.

'The mana he's emitting doesn't seem ordinary either.'

But what does it matter.

There's no way Kim Taehyun and Cody Cruz couldn't feel what she was feeling.

Asisat Ebi crossed her arms and watched as if she was watching an interesting spectacle.

"Kim Taehyun…. Why are you here…."

Lee Jeong-jae opened his mouth for the first time.

"That's none of your business. I don't think you've answered my question yet."

Saying that, Taehyun flared his mana.

Flinch.

Lee Jeong-jae's body reacted to just that.

The memory of being defeated by Taehyun in the past resurfaced like a trauma.

"I was on patrol…. As the leader of the Taesan Guild's attack team…."

"Really? Does the team leader usually patrol alone?"

Lee Jeong-jae was at a loss for words at Taehyun's question for a moment.

"That's…."

"Okay, get lost."

Taehyun said as if he wasn't interested.

He was already a guy who had naturalized to China.

Besides, most of the Taesan Group's crimes were related to Lee Jeong-soo.

Now that Lee Jeong-soo had been caught, Lee Jeong-jae was no longer of interest to Taehyun.

Taehyun looked at Cody Cruz and Asisat Ebi, leaving the silent Lee Jeong-jae behind.

Cody Cruz was fine considering he had fought Min Ji-hong, and Asisat Ebi's bleeding had stopped, but she seemed to attract attention from the people around her because she had no arms.

"I can't yield this time either."

Cody Cruz, who had anticipated what Taehyun was going to say, made the first move.

"Then let's go together."

Tring.

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

Along with crimson mana, the three crossed the gate.

Only Lee Jeong-jae remained.

"Shit…."

Lee Jeong-jae belatedly spat out profanity.

Not to anyone but himself.

As Taehyun thought, it was no coincidence that Lee Jeong-jae had come all the way to this remote place.

He was in the process of receiving mana from Kasim Zolt in Guangzhou.

But suddenly, Kasim Zolt was swept away by the gate and disappeared.

A part of Kasim Zolt's mana, however, continued to flow to this Phoenix.

He used the warp gate to quickly move here.

Soon after, he realized that a huge mana was colliding inside the barrier.

A fight that he couldn't dare to get involved in.

Lee Jeong-jae waited.

For the battle to end.

For Kasim Zolt, who should give him strength, to survive safely.

And.

He encountered the three who belatedly came out of the barrier.

Lee Jeong-jae intuitively realized that Kasim Zolt was dead.

The powerful mana that was connected to him had disappeared.

"Shit!!"

It was Kim Taehyun again this time.

The demon shadow that demonized him and made him stand up.

The demon Kasim Zolt, whom he had personally visited to ask for guidance.

He was the one who eliminated both demons.

"Damn…. Maybe I'm…."

His body was still trembling.

When he met Taehyun, the trauma that he thought he had overcome slowly raised its head.

The fact that he didn't have a seizure compared to the past was something to be grateful for.

Then.

[Hehehe.]

A sinister laughter was heard in his head.

It was a familiar laughter.

[Did you think I was dead?]

'Kasim… Zolt…?'

[Hehe. You dare to call your teacher's name carelessly. Impious disciple.]

"The one who died to Kim Taehyun was…."

[Yes. I died once again. But the contract of immortality does not disappear so easily.]

Lee Jeong-jae's face brightened noticeably.

"What should I do…."

[There's no need to do anything. I'll take care of it.]

Whoosh.

Suddenly, purple mana poured out of Lee Jeong-jae's body.

"Ugh…."

Lee Jeong-jae crawled on the floor in pain.

A moment later.

"This is a good body after all."

Lee Jeong-jae raised his body and began to grope his body.

One of Lee Jeong-jae's eyes had turned red.

Night Walker VVIP Room.

There were three men and women in the place that Taehyun was using exclusively.

Taehyun, Cody Cruz, and Asisat Ebi.

"Wow. I feel it every time, but the Saintess's power is amazing."

Asisat Ebi, whose arms had grown back thanks to the Saintess's 'Super-Speed Regeneration', murmured.

It was the second time for her to receive treatment from the Saintess since the injury she had suffered from Taehyun earlier.

"But is it alright? Judging from her eyes, she desires Kim Taehyun player…."

"Enough. Let's get back to the main topic. That gentleman doesn't have much time either."

Taehyun said, pointing to Cody Cruz standing on one side.

He was also waiting to get proper information from Taehyun.

"What I want to ask is about the laws of the Abyss. I think I need an explanation first."

Before that, Taehyun told her about what had happened in Fukuoka earlier.

She wasn't particularly surprised even at the fact that Jormungandr had come to Earth.

"It seems you know about the laws of the Abyss."

"Jormungandr isn't the first Archduke to appear on Earth."

It wasn't wrong.

The fight with Jang Lin-pung.

That's because Igmun and Rozaria had also appeared on Earth back then.

'Of course, they were much weaker than Jormungandr.'

"Before I talk about the laws of the Abyss. I'll have to tell you how I was chosen by Hazard."

Her explanation followed.

The beginning of it was the gate that occurred in Nigeria.

"It was the first time. Meeting such an overwhelming demon."

Archduke Hazard.

She began to tell the story of her first encounter.

Episode 275

A Grade player from Nigeria, Asisat Ebi.

The dungeon she participated in at the time was an uncaptured dungeon that had occurred in her own country.

Africa has many mid-tier players, but generally lacks a sufficient number of high-level players.

As a result, a support system between neighboring countries is relatively well established.

"Actually, it was an uncaptured dungeon... but that was only because Nigeria's skills weren't good enough. The official measurement grade was around S. Several countries supported us with S-grade players, so I thought capturing it wouldn't be difficult."

Asisat Ebi recalled the mistake she made at the time with a bitter expression.

"But it wasn't an ordinary S-grade dungeon, it was a double dungeon?"

Taehyun mentioned the information he received from Nightwalker.

It was written in the report that Jeong Hansoo gave him after requesting information about Asisat Ebi.

She nodded.

"Yes. It was the first double dungeon not only in Nigeria, but in all of Africa. We couldn't respond properly."

It's not a big deal.

In fact, some countries' player associations make things worse due to poor administrative processing.

Player associations that are useless.

Especially for places that are difficult to measure, like double dungeons.

According to the report Taehyun read, Asisat Ebi was the only survivor.

"There must have been many sacrifices."

Cody Cruise, who had been listening silently, opened his mouth.

He travels between Earth and the Abyss on various missions.

It was the first time he had heard of the incident, but looking at Asisat Ebi's face, he could guess the rough ending.

She nodded once again.

"What was waiting for us there was a dragonkin monster. As soon as we entered, attacks from A-grade to S-grade monsters began... and half of the attack party died in an instant."

For Taehyun and Cody Cruise, who had already captured numerous double dungeons, it was not a surprising story.

She saw the reactions on their faces and expected it.

"But if that was all, it wouldn't have been impossible to capture. There were two S-grade players on our side."

That's obvious.

She took a deep breath and continued.

"They died in a new double dungeon. A double dungeon within a double dungeon."

"......!!"

"......!!"

At the unexpected words, Taehyun and Cody Cruise's eyes twitched.

A double dungeon within a double dungeon.

It was a form they had never heard of before, even though they were at the forefront of information.

Especially.

'That's never been discovered even in my past life?'

Taehyun's doubts grew even more.

It's strange for the form of a newly discovered dungeon to be unknown.

Immediately after it is made public.

Many dungeon enthusiasts and professional reporters cover it in detail.

The association also tries to disclose as much as possible for the survival rate of players.

'The association couldn't have hidden it. Then...'

Asisat Ebi from his past life hid it, or.

He didn't encounter a Hazard there.

'Or such a dungeon never occurred in the first place.'

Since the player Asisat Ebi was not known in his past life, he couldn't know for sure.

'At least this time, it's likely to be different.'

He had no choice but to think so.

While Taehyun was establishing his own hypothesis, Asisat Ebi continued.

"We were wiped out in the second double dungeon. I also suffered serious injuries, with both arms being cut off."

"But you're alive?"

Cody Cruise, who had been focused on her story, interjected.

"Yes. For some reason, an S-grade monster didn't kill me and took me away. And at the innermost part of the dungeon, there was a monster with a huge 'presence'."

"That guy..."

Asisat Ebi smiled brightly at Cody Cruise's trailing off.

"Yes. It was a Hazard."

It's an amazing story.

A Great Duke mixed into a gate break and being in a dungeon.

Taehyun and Cody Cruise focused on the next story.

She seemed to like that reaction as she smiled slyly.

"Was the Hazard in the form of a dragon?"

Taehyun brought up the question he had been holding all along.

"No. He was in the form of a dragonkin. I wasn't in my right mind at the time, so I couldn't dare to guess... but now that I think about it, he seemed to have the power of an SS-grade monster."

He felt like the puzzle in his head was being put together.

Originally, they are beings that cannot cross over to Earth due to the laws of the Abyss.

He doesn't know how Hazard deceived the laws of the Abyss.

'Lowering the presence is at least around SS-grade.'

He could vaguely establish such a hypothesis with more information than expected.

It must be quite difficult to lower that presence to around SS-grade.

Taehyun's approach was not wrong.

Similarly, Cody Cruise was also in the process of establishing a similar hypothesis.

"The Hazard that turned into a dragonkin appeared. And. What happened to you?"

Cody Cruise, recalling his own situation, asked meaningfully.

"He told me to accept his power."

Pfft.

At that point, Taehyun laughed.

The first Great Duke Taehyun met, Rozaria.

Except for her, they all made the same offer.

No, it wasn't an offer, it was an order.

They clearly thought of themselves as kings or gods with that transcendent power.

One question arose.

Jang Linpeng, Min Ji Hong, Kasim Zolt, Cody Cruise, and Taehyun.

All of them had powers comparable to S-grade players even before becoming Great Duke contractors.

On the other hand, Asisat Ebi, who faced Hazard, was only an A-grade player.

'Does the strength of magic not matter when a Great Duke chooses a contractor?'

Naturally, such a question came to mind.

"Why did Hazard choose you?"

Cody Cruise happened to ask that first.

Asisat Ebi smiled awkwardly, as if it was an unexpected question.

"Ahaha. Well, the thing is, I couldn't even ask him that far. I didn't have a choice."

It was a natural reaction.

He was already telling her to accept his power at the moment of death.

If you accept the power, you can save your life.

Who could refuse?

Taehyun himself accepted the power from the king in that way and returned to the past.

"He told me to accept his power and grow stronger. And when I opened my eyes, I was outside the dungeon. The dungeon disappeared, and the bodies of everyone except me could not be found."

"There's one strange thing."

The reason Asisat Ebi approached Taehyun before was because of Hazard's order.

'Capture Rozaria's contractor, Kim Taehyun.'

She clearly said she received such an order.

At that time, he vaguely thought she knew Hazard's residence in the deepest part of the Abyss.

But now that he sees it.

"You've never been to the deepest part?"

Taehyun asked as if he was sure.

"Yes. I'm ashamed to say that I haven't."

"Then what about Hazard's order?"

"His subordinates deliver it instead."

"......!!"

"Amazing."

It would be strange if it wasn't amazing.

Because it means that a monster of at least SS-grade is freely going back and forth between the Abyss and Earth.

'How is that even possible?'

How can they not get caught in the surveillance network of the players?

That's what Taehyun and Cody Cruise were thinking.

"I don't know how either. What's certain is that he's a dragonkin monster... but his appearance is no different from humans."

Taehyun's body twitched.

A player who uses some of the power of the Great Duke contractor even though he is not one.

Yoo Ah Young came to mind.

"And one more thing. The more the power of the Great Duke contractor grows, the weaker the laws of the Abyss become. So he said that growing the Great Duke contractor is the only way to break the restrictions that the 'king' placed."

At that words, Taehyun and Cody Cruise.

The two men with their own secrets were silent.

"King... should we see that as another Great Duke?"

Cody Cruise muttered.

"Well. I don't know that far."

Asisat Ebi smiled bashfully.

Regardless of the danger of what she just said, she was happy to be associating with those two men.

Moreover, she is a Great Duke contractor like them.

She felt like a fan who met a celebrity she admired.

"Cody. Didn't Lucifer tell you anything special?"

Taehyun asked lightly.

"I don't really want to talk about it here."

"You're cold."

"Aren't you the same?"

Among the Great Duke contractors with many mysteries, Taehyun is particularly unfathomable.

Cody Cruise knew that Taehyun was hiding something related to the story just now.

He wasn't sure what that something was.

"It seems like you're all just taking my information."

Asisat Ebi said, puffing out her cheeks.

"That's not true. We're all in the same boat now."

"Ooh."

Asisat Ebi reacted strongly.

"Isn't that right?"

Taehyun asked Cody Cruise, who was silently watching the scene.

"No. That's accurate."

Cody Cruise, Asisat Ebi, and Taehyun.

The three of them became Great Duke contractors for their own reasons.

Anyway, they are players.

It was a natural reaction to form a common front.

"I have a feeling. But Kasim Zolt is probably not dead yet."

Taehyun told him about the uneasy feeling he had at that time.

"Yeah. He's not the type to die easily."

He nodded in agreement.

Because he had already taken the life of that heinous demon several times.

"So, let's act separately in the future and share information about those guys."

"Kim Taehyun. What are you going to do?"

Whether he will stay on Earth.

Or go back to the Abyss again to seek growth.

That's what he wanted to ask.

"The more SS-grade players, the better. I'm thinking of nurturing talented players."

"Nurturing SS-grade players..."

At Taehyun's words that he spoke so easily.

"That's awesome..."

Asisat Ebi said sincerely.

After the two left, Taehyun opened the status window.

[Physical Stats]

Name: Kim Taehyun

Age: 20

Grade: SS

Strength: 364 Stamina: 369 Speed: 357 Magic Power: 523 Charm: 290

Fatigue: 40%

Remaining Magic Power: 500/523

[Quest]

Tribal War (???) - ??? (0.5%)

Territorial War (???) - ??? (???%)

Gray Disease (C) - Create a vaccine for Gray Disease. (85%)

[Unique Skill]

Devour (SS) - Can devour desired targets. Yokai Power: 120

[General Skills]

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

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

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

Heart of the Higher Being (SS) - Forms a magic stone in the body. Yokai Power: 30

Eye of the Higher Being (SS) - Sees through the opponent. Yokai Power: 10

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

Rage of Blood (SS) - Activates physical stats. Yokai Power: 100

Wrath of the Dragon (SS) - Emits magic-enhanced aura. Yokai Power: 100

Demon Transformation (SS) - Mimics the body. Yokai Power: 170

Devil's Saliva (SS) - Grants poison properties to magic power. Yokai Power: 120

Devil Gate (SS) - Opens a gate to the Abyss. Yokai Power: 300

[Summon Skill]

Rozaria (SS) - Summons the Queen of Succubi Rozaria. Yokai Power: 300

Hazard (SS) - Summons the Dragon Lord Hazard. Yokai Power: 11000

Igmun (SS) - Summons the Vampire Lord Igmun. Yokai Power: 550

Orgal (SS) - Summons the Beast King Orgal. Yokai Power: 7800

Beelzebub (SS) - Summons the Demon King Beelzebub. Yokai Power: 8000

Jormungandr (SS) - Summons the Sea Serpent King Jormungandr. Yokai Power: 7000

Typhon (SS) - Summons the Giant King Typhon. Yokai Power: 99999

There was an increase in stats, and the percentage of the Gray Disease quest also changed to some extent.

But what caught Taehyun's attention was.

"Devil Gate..."

It was a skill he obtained after devouring Kasim Zolt.

276

SS-grade skill 'Devil Gate.'

Like Shadow's 'Apostle of Darkness,' it was a skill I wanted to obtain.

I recalled the battle that had taken place just moments ago.

The higher the grade of 'Devouring,' the more difficult it became to register skills.

Whether it was a demon or a monster.

The targets Taehyun used Devouring on were beings with unexpectedly great power, and most of them possessed rare skills.

And.

'Devil Gate' was one of the most outstanding skills Taehyun had devoured so far.

'Opening a gate to the Abyss... it's too abstract.'

Taehyun's eyebrows furrowed as he read the description in the status window.

Devouring could register skills while preserving the original form, or it could register them in a newly transformed state.

This was because a newly registered skill would inevitably be inferior to the original owner who had honed their proficiency to the limit.

Which was 'Devil Gate'?

The ability to summon countless monsters, even SS-grade monsters at will, was it Kasim Jort's ability?

Or was the skill itself special?

'Wait a minute. If it's a summoning skill, it shouldn't be in the general skill list...'

Taehyun carefully examined the newly changed status window.

There were a total of seven summoning skills registered.

Rosaria, Igmun, Orgal, Beelzebub, Jormungandr, Hazard, Typhon.

'They're all either current or former Archdukes.'

The status window had never made a mistake so far.

At least, Taehyun's 'Devil Gate' was unlikely to be a summoning skill.

For now, that is.

'I need to check it out in another place first.'

It would be a disaster if a monster was summoned by using the skill here.

Taehyun was about to leave the Nightwalker building when.

Click.

Someone came in first.

It was Yoo Ah-young.

"What, are you thinking of leaving again?"

She had come after receiving a call that Cody Cruz and Asissat Ebi had returned.

"There's nothing for me to do here."

Taehyun said as he packed his bag.

As befitting a VVIP room, a certain amount of top-grade potions and skills were always prepared.

"Nothing to do? You can play with me."

Yoo Ah-young looked at Taehyun and said as if it were obvious.

"...I don't think that's something the head of the Four Great Guilds should say."

Yoo Ah-young's lips pouted at Taehyun's words.

"You're no fun."

Taehyun chuckled at her childish behavior.

This was the Yoo Ah-young he knew.

'She's accepted the given situation, hasn't she?'

He was glad that she seemed to have regained her unique cheerfulness.

"So. What's your relationship with Asissat Ebi?"

She brought up her original purpose.

The information that Jung Han-soo had collected at Taehyun's request.

She had read the information and sensed something unusual.

"She's also an Archduke contractor."

"......!!"

Her eyes widened at Taehyun's casual remark.

"Then..."

"Yes. Cody Cruz is also an Archduke contractor."

"Ha."

Yoo Ah-young had a dumbfounded expression.

A player, no less.

The fact that two people vying for the top spot in the world rankings were both related to monsters.

"Can I ask you about what you talked about here?"

Yoo Ah-young asked cautiously.

She was Taehyun's helper, but matters related to Archduke contractors were sensitive.

'Even if he doesn't tell me, there's nothing I can do for now.'

She would have to use Nightwalker's information network to gather information somehow.

But contrary to her expectations.

Taehyun had already decided to trust her.

Unlike others, she was the head of the Information Guild.

'She might be able to find out information I haven't thought of.'

Taehyun briefly told her about what he had discussed with the Archdukes.

The gate break in Fukuoka was the work of Jormungandr, and they couldn't cross the gate at will due to the laws of the Abyss.

And currently, there were two known Archduke contractors among the demons and three among the players.

"Min Ji-hong is Orgal's contractor... and Kasim Jort is... Beelzebub's contractor...?"

Her reaction was even more shocking than hearing that Asissat Ebi and Cody Cruz were Archduke contractors.

"Isn't it more plausible that demons are Archduke contractors than players?"

"I guess so..."

Yoo Ah-young belatedly agreed.

But unlike her words, the fact that there were more than one or two Archdukes like Rosaria.

And despite receiving the power of an Archduke like herself.

She seemed quite shocked that there were several others besides Taehyun who were maintaining their sanity.

"So Guild Leader Yoo Ah-young can do it too. It's not difficult."

"Th, that's true..."

Unlike her words, everyone except Asissat Ebi were formidable players or demons.

Ironically, he had won against Kasim Jort, who was considered the most vicious among them, twice.

'Maybe I've become unbelievably strong...'

According to Taehyun, the deceased Jang Linpeng was also an Archduke contractor.

This meant that four players and two demons had the power of an Archduke.

It was thought to be a cursed power, but.

As Taehyun said, it could be a chosen power depending on how it was used.

'This guy has been enduring these powers... and growing?'

She knew about Taehyun's greatness without hearing more.

But the more she knew, the more she felt a new sense of awe.

The path Taehyun had taken since the 'Phoenix Temple.'

If she could only follow that path.

"I can do it to... cough..."

Suddenly.

Ah-young grabbed her neck.

"Guild Leader Yoo Ah-young?"

She groaned, unable to answer Taehyun's question.

Her knees buckled, and a new magical power was boiling within her chest.

Swish.

Ah-young's eyes turned crimson.

Creaking.

She had the illusion that a new heart was forming in one side of her chest.

No, it wasn't an illusion.

'This magical power is...'

Taehyun looked at Ah-young, who had suddenly gone berserk.

A power strong enough to cover up her original green magical power.

The purple magical power that symbolized Rosaria's power was blooming from her entire body.

'Why all of a sudden...'

Taehyun thought so and raised his own magical power.

The VIP room of Nightwalker was not equipped with a barrier like a training room.

If something went wrong, the entire building could collapse.

'That can't happen.'

Kwaaaaaaa.

Taehyun unleashed his magical power.

Ting.

[Skill Superior Species' Heart (SS) has been activated.]

[Skill Superior Species' Eye (SS) has been activated.]

[Skill Apocalypse (SS) has been activated. Target is being specified. Mana consumption is accelerating.]

In an instant, the area was enveloped in darkness.

If she was really going berserk, he intended to subdue her in a short period of time.

Kugugugung.

Swish. Swish.

Gravity and chains were ready to restrain her.

It didn't take long for Yoo Ah-young's groans to subside.

She raised her body.

Crackle. Crackle.

Along with the sparks.

A dangerous amount of magical power scattered in all directions.

It was proof that she was not completely in control of her power.

A pair of crimson eyes that wouldn't be strange for a superior species monster met.

"Guild Leader Yoo Ah-young. Did you suddenly want to fight?"

Taehyun asked as he met Yoo Ah-young's eyes filled with madness.

"......"

He naturally expected her to answer with her unique nasal voice.

Yoo Ah-young just stood there without answering.

'Has she lost her mind?'

Looking closely at her crimson eyes, they were unfocused, unlike the dark color.

Now was the chance.

Ting.

[Skill Apocalypse (SS) has been enhanced. Target is being specified. Mana consumption is accelerating.]

[Output: 100%]

Kugugugugu.

It was a skill used at maximum output in one go.

He felt as if the building was shaking for a moment.

Swish.

Dozens of chains wrapped around and around her body.

He was going to use 'Energy Drain' to suck out all the magical power left in her body.

It was the moment he was about to strengthen 'Energy Drain.'

Suddenly.

Crack. Crack.

The 'Chains of Binding' cracked.

'Has she become stronger than before?'

Even though she was berserk, it was an enormous amount of magical power.

Taehyun clicked his tongue and was about to use the next skill when.

[Hehehe. You seem quite scared, contractor.]

"......"

Taehyun flinched at the voice he heard.

"You..."

Taehyun looked at the crimson eyes visible beyond the broken chains.

Her unfocused eyes were now clearly staring at him.

[Didn't you want to see me?]

"Why are you coming out of there?"

He took a deep breath and released the magical power he had been focusing on the skill.

Standing in front of Taehyun, in the form of Yoo Ah-young, was.

Rosaria.

"What are you doing? What is this?"

Taehyun asked, not hiding his displeasure.

Just Rosaria dominating Yoo Ah-young's body was emitting an enormous amount of magical power.

There was no way there wouldn't be a risk.

She was maintaining a temporary form with her powerful magical power.

Yoo Ah-young's body, which was not yet a complete vessel, was breaking down.

She would have to spend a considerable amount of time in the intensive care unit just for that.

[You seem angry.]

"You think?"

Yoo Ah-young's lips curled up at Taehyun's reply.

[But I'm also quite impatient. I had no choice but to use this child to approach the contractor.]

"Impatient?"

It was a word choice that was difficult to expect from the usual Rosaria.

[Asmodeus came to me.]

"......!!"

He was surprised for a moment.

She continued.

[I have something urgent to tell you, so return to the Abyss.]

It wasn't an order.

It was a request.

Rosaria disappeared after saying those words.

Taehyun moved the collapsed Yoo Ah-young to the intensive care unit inside Nightwalker and explained the general situation to Jung Han-soo.

It took him less than 30 minutes to go to the Association and meet Ko Tae-wook.

"Are you not going to tell me what's going on?"

"It's better if you don't know."

Ji Jin-hee had been busy with work due to the recent relationship with China.

He didn't want to put pressure on him by telling him about the Abyss.

'There might still be a spy left in the Association.'

It wouldn't take long as Jung Han-soo was looking into it separately.

"Hmm... okay, I understand. I'll tell the Association President separately."

"Please."

"Don't worry about here. Thanks to you, the power of Shin Han-guk is no longer easy to deal with."

Unlike his words, the power of Shin Han-guk was not just easy to deal with.

It now possessed enough power to be in the top five in the world, even without Taehyun.

This was due to the six SS-grade players, along with the steadily growing mid-level players.

Har Sultan's second attack was the perfect test to test their skills.

'When I come back next time, the Gray Disease might be completely gone.'

Was that all?

Ji Jin-hee and Ko Tae-wook would be able to improve Taehyun's training method and further develop other players.

"Then. Take care of yourself."

With those words, Taehyun headed to the gate zone.

He could use the skill to move directly, but.

'I don't know how the laws of the Abyss will work.'

It was better to minimize mental fatigue and physical burden.

A large warp gate was activated.

Kiiiiiiii.

The magical power of the Association players was injected.

Ting.

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

Taehyun's body crossed the gate.

What he saw was.

The broken castle of Rosaria.

Okay, here's the translation of chapter 277:

Chapter 277

Crackle. Sizzle.

Sparks flew from Taehyun's body as he emerged from the gate.

It wasn't the same level of strain that acted on Jormungandr's body before, but…

It wasn't an insignificant impact.

However, Taehyun's expression wasn't bad.

'It's definitely less burdensome.'

The sensation of his entire body being torn apart the moment he crossed the gate was vivid.

If Taehyun hadn't properly contained his magic power, either his brain or his body…

It wouldn't have been strange if one of them had burst.

Even so…

'It's not as bad as when I fought Belzebub and crossed over to Earth.'

Unexpectedly, he had grown quite a bit on Earth.

Although incomplete...

It was because he devoured Jormungandr and Kasim Zort.

His stats increased, and he gained new skills.

It wouldn't make sense for the 'Law of the Abyss' to weaken; it would only become stronger.

So, it wouldn't be strange if the Law of the Abyss tore Taehyun's body to shreds...

But all Taehyun experienced was tolerable pain and sparks flying.

'Is it because I used a large warp gate? Or is it because I went from Earth to the Abyss?'

Which one it was would become clear when he crossed over again.

Taehyun activated 'Blood Frenzy.'

Swish, swish, swish.

As magic power was consumed, the wounds on his body healed instantly.

Only then did the landscape of the ruined castle properly enter his eyes.

'Was there some kind of attack?'

Rosaria currently has antagonistic relationships with Igmun, Orgal, and Belzebub.

Moreover, since Jormungandr and Hazard were also chasing Taehyun, it wouldn't be strange if they were targeting her.

Cody Cruz's contractor, Lucifer.

It was hard to call him an ally as well.

'Looking at it like this, I really am surrounded by enemies.'

Taehyun thought as he looked for Rosaria.

It didn't take long to find her.

[You've come.]

She, who had appeared from behind at some point, spoke first.

Taehyun scanned her body.

In contrast to the state of the castle…

"You're fine?"

She was too clean.

Like an office worker who had relieved stress in some way.

'Does her skin look better… or is that my imagination?'

[Hehe. Were you worried about me?]

Rosaria said, laughing as if it were someone else's problem.

"Worried..."

Of course.

Until now, she had never looked for Taehyun in that way first.

He thought that something serious was surely waiting for him.

That's why he had filled the newly provided Infinite Backpack from the association with potions and scrolls.

"What happened to this castle?"

Taehyun asked, looking around the half-destroyed castle.

[Didn't I tell you? Asmodeus came to visit.]

"So, why did that guy suddenly come?"

Taehyun's voice sharpened as he asked that.

Until now, Taehyun had been confident in front of any demon, but...

'Asmodeus. I just can't bring myself to like that guy.'

The being who drove Taehyun to his death in his past life.

The one who toyed with Taehyun when he was an unawakened person and massacred the Hanbit Guild members.

So, it was only natural that he would become sensitive whenever that guy was mentioned.

[He suggested that we join hands.]

"..."

A look of bewilderment appeared on Taehyun's face at the unexpected words.

Asmodeus is an SSS-rank demon.

No matter how fast his growth rate is, he's not at the level where he can stand up to a Great Duke.

'Could it be that he already has the power of a Great Duke…'

A shadow fell over Taehyun's face.

As if reading his thoughts, Rosaria laughed heartily.

[There's no need to worry. His power wasn't at the Great Duke level yet.]

"...Then, what happened to this castle?"

Even when Igmun came before, it wasn't this bad.

Even when he infiltrated Orgal's castle, it wasn't this bad.

[Although he's not at the Great Duke level, he's quite an enjoyable opponent. Ahahahaha.]

Rosaria let out a seductive laugh.

"..."

Taehyun tilted his head at that reaction.

Judging from her reaction, there didn't seem to be any great threat.

Even so...

'You called me here for just this?'

The Rosaria that Taehyun knew wouldn't contact him like that without a reason.

In other words, there was more to it than met the eye.

"It doesn't seem like you called me just because Asmodeus came. It seems like you have something to say."

Taehyun pressed for an answer.

[You're still an impatient man.]

Saying that, she raised her crimson magic power.

Taehyun also raised his magic power to meet hers.

It was because he knew that she intended to force 'Ataraxia' on him like in the previous training.

[It might be burdensome. I played quite fiercely.]

Immediately afterward, Rosaria's red eyes flashed.

Ting.

[Skill Ataraxia (SS) has been activated. Target is specified.]

[Skill Memorize (SS) has been activated. Recording begins.]

The battle that the two demons had waged was replayed before Taehyun's eyes.

"Haa..."

Taehyun let out a light breath.

His head throbbed.

It was a headache that couldn't be compared to the one he experienced when using it against players on Earth.

The burden of using 'Ataraxia' is proportional to the amount of magic power experienced by the subject being recorded.

In that respect, the battle that Rosaria and Asmodeus had waged was by no means light.

Overwhelming.

The battle that Rosaria showed against Asmodeus could only be expressed in that way.

"Impressive."

Taehyun said that sincerely.

As if expecting that reaction, Rosaria let out a nasal sound.

[Hmph~ Did you think I would be injured by such a youngster?]

"..."

Her silence meant she knew Taehyun's silence was an affirmation.

[Oh my. It seems I've been underestimated until now.]

"I was rude."

It's not wrong.

Rosaria is the weakest of the seven Great Dukes.

On the other hand, Asmodeus is a top-tier demon aiming for the position of Great Duke.

He thought that even if he couldn't win, it wouldn't be strange if he inflicted damage on Rosaria.

[Hehe. The position of Great Duke isn't something that can be obtained so easily.]

"That's for sure. It seems that way."

Taehyun readily admitted.

On the one hand, it was a good opportunity to realize the level difference between a Great Duke and an SSS-rank demon.

"But I don't understand. Why did you fight like that?"

If there was that much of a skill difference, there shouldn't have been a need for the castle to be destroyed like this.

Although Asmodeus used a power he had never seen before to escape at the last moment...

It wouldn't have been difficult for her to draw out such power without pushing herself.

Rosaria's answer was something Taehyun hadn't expected.

[Contractor. Weren't you curious about Asmodeus's strength?]

"......!!"

Taehyun's eyes widened slightly.

"Could it be that you..."

[Hehe.]

Rosaria let out a strange laugh.

Only then did he understand.

Why she had such a battle to the point of destroying the castle.

Why she didn't use the power of a Great Duke and used a similar power to Asmodeus.

'You wanted to show me.'

How much power Asmodeus has.

How much of a difference there is between his power and Taehyun's.

She deliberately controlled her power and drew out Asmodeus's full strength.

"Why did you go so far?"

Someday, he will meet Asmodeus.

He intends to devour him as a stepping stone for growth.

He was also concerned about what the King had said.

But he didn't think that Rosaria would push herself to help him that much.

'No. Maybe she just wanted to relieve stress.'

In a moment when she was spending tiring days under the pressure of a Great Duke.

A demon who seemed quite sturdy came to her doorstep to be a punching bag.

Rosaria had an expression as if Taehyun's reaction was unexpected.

[Hmm? That's not the reaction I expected.]

"Are you talking about him regressing?"

Taehyun recalled the part where Asmodeus himself revealed that he had inherited 'Baal's power' in the replayed memory.

[Yes. Just like the contractor received the King's power. He is also a key chosen by the Upper Realm King.]

"So?"

[Of course, it's necessary to know.]

"Okay. Let's say that's the case. Is that the only reason you called me?"

It's definitely important information.

But that was not enough of a reason to call Taehyun here.

[Ahaha. You're still confident. Just like your power is special, his power will also be special. The Great Dukes don't know that.]

"Are you saying that there will be Great Dukes who want to ally with the Upper Realm King?"

[It's not impossible. But it doesn't seem like there are any gains yet.]

Rosaria, who had been watching Taehyun's reaction for a while, continued.

[In the past, Baal was the King of the Lower Realm, but he betrayed them and left for the Upper Realm. And the Lower Realm guys don't like the Upper Realm. The Great Dukes also want to invade the Upper Realm, not bow their heads to them.]

"..."

[Well, more than that, it's because the King eliminated most of the previous Great Dukes.]

The previous Great Dukes.

Diablo, Lilith, Balor, Behemoth, Leviathan, etc.

The King eliminated the Great Dukes who would not submit to him until the end for the war with the Upper Realm.

That's how Igmun, Orgal, Typhon, Rosaria, Jormungandr, and Hazard became Great Dukes.

It was only natural that they would not easily join hands with the Upper Realm King.

"Belzebub and Lucifer. I don't know about those guys."

[Yes. They are the ones who inevitably succumbed to the King's power. If they waver, it will be those guys.]

Rosaria said definitively.

Only then did the pieces of the puzzle fit together.

"The landscape of the Abyss will change."

Asmodeus alone is a handful, but what if a cooperating Great Duke appears?

A major upheaval will occur in the Abyss, even more so than when Taehyun started the territory war.

[But it will be okay for a while. The wounds he suffered won't be small.]

Taehyun silently nodded.

Although Asmodeus in the memory had a good fight.

In the end, he seemed to have suffered considerable shock from her mental attack.

If it wasn't for that 'strange power,' it would have been impossible to escape.

[Yes. Since he used his authority, it will take him time to recover.]

"So, you're saying we should finish our business in the meantime."

[That's right. We found the place where Typhon's body is, so there's no need to delay.]

It's a situation where they are too busy checking the Great Dukes.

In that situation, if Asmodeus intervenes, it will become even more difficult for Rosaria, who has the smallest power.

So now is the perfect time to start things with Igmun and Belzebub while Asmodeus can't intervene.

Of course, to do that, one more piece of information is needed.

"Did you find out the location of Typhon?"

The king of the giants who was defeated by Orgal and sealed.

Taehyun asked about the whereabouts of the former Great Duke.

The corners of Rosaria's lips went up.

[Orgal's second castle. Typhon's body is sealed there. But the people guarding it are also not easy to deal with.]

"Not bad. Let's move right away."

[Before that.]

"Hmm?"

[There's a place the contractor needs to go.]

[Has there been any contact from him?]

Orgal asked while biting the head of an unknown demon.

[No, Your Majesty.]

A subordinate.

Goblinoga bowed his head and answered.

[Strange.]

Orgal threw the demon's head, which had only bones left, to one side.

Goblinoga flinched at the sight.

It was because he knew that the demon's head that had been thrown away was a top-tier demon.

[You've been disappointing me lately.]

Orgal was looking for Min Ji-hong.

He ordered him to bring the contractor of Great Duke Hazard.

That guy's contact was suddenly cut off.

He knows that he is not dead yet.

If that were the case, his body would have been damaged.

[I'll have my subordinates investigate.]

Orgal nodded at Goblinoga's answer.

[How's Rosaria doing?]

[The giant Erebus is waiting for orders.]

Goblinoga mentioned the name of a demon.

Orgal burst out laughing at the unexpected name.

[Puhuhu. Has that guy finally made up his mind?]

Erebus.

He is the son of Typhon, the king of the giants.

Naturally, his power is no match for even the top-tier subordinates.

[Who would refuse Orgal's orders?]

Thud.

Goblinoga expressed excessive loyalty and slammed his head on the floor.

[If he's in the vanguard, then the fall is only a matter of time.]

Orgal was excited just thinking about it and wriggled his body.

It was time to dye the Abyss with blood.

Episode 278

The deepest part of the Abyss.

Once the domain of the Giant King Typhon.

Now, a vast territory ruled by the Beast King Orgal.

At its edge, giants who remember the glory of the past gathered.

The Labyrinth Gigantes.

One of the largest in the deepest part of the Abyss.

A place where, due to its usual ferocity, monsters dared not tread, but one monster confidently entered the labyrinth.

Green skin and a short stature not even reaching 160 centimeters.

Yet, the energy emanating from its rugged muscles was not inferior to that of a top-tier monster.

Goblino, a subordinate of Orgal.

He, too, was an SS+ class monster by human standards.

He used to be active in the depths but swore allegiance to Orgal.

And now, he temporarily held the power of an SSS class.

In the depths, he still had a notoriety comparable to that of Blodia.

Such a monster stopped in the center of Gigantes.

Goblino looked up at the giant figure before him.

Even considering his short stature, it was an absurd size.

But behind him were dozens more like that.

A massive physique.

Overwhelming regeneration and strength.

Traits symbolizing the giant race, now weakened.

[What the hell do you have to eat to get this huge?]

Goblino said as if displeased.

[That's none of your concern. Have the Great Duke's orders been given?]

As if not caring about Goblino's words.

A giant monster, a head taller than the other giants, asked.

It was Erebus of Thunder, leading the giants in Gigantes.

[Indeed. The King has graciously allowed you to lead the vanguard so you may achieve great feats.]

[The vanguard... A transparent ploy.]

Erebus chuckled mockingly.

[What was that?]

Goblino's eyes narrowed at Erebus's unexpected attitude.

At that sight, Erebus stopped laughing and lowered his head sharply.

[Isn't the idea to use us giants as expendable pawns in the territory war?]

[How dare you... defy the King's command!!]

Goblino quietly revealed his fighting spirit.

To Orgal's subordinate, Erebus's remark was tantamount to insubordination.

Erebus, standing a full 10 meters tall.

He smirked at Goblino, who was emitting fighting spirit.

To him, who already possessed the power of a top-tier subordinate, Goblino's strength was nothing more than a useful underling.

Nothing more, nothing less.

[Erebus. You're acting up, relying on Orgal's generosity.]

[Orgal's generosity...]

Erebus's thick brow twitched.

At that reaction, Goblino drove the wedge in further.

[Don't forget. You giants are under the rule of our beast race.]

[......]

Erebus's body tensed for a moment.

Then, he let out a sigh.

Sparks flew around him from that alone.

[Rule. That's not wrong.]

The giant race, defeated in the past war, was under the rule of the beast race.

That was an undeniable fact.

However.

[That doesn't mean you can say such things to me.]

Suddenly.

Crackle.

With a spark, Erebus's body disappeared.

[......!!]

Goblino was momentarily taken aback by the sudden situation.

Thump.

Erebus's rough hand, having already turned around, grabbed Goblino's body.

[Keuk... let go!!]

Goblino emitted brown fighting spirit and struck Erebus's hand.

Thump. Thump. Thump. Thump.

Even with a sound that could reverberate deep inside the labyrinth.

Erebus didn't release his grip, as if unaffected.

Without even changing his expression.

[Pitiful. To have only this much power even with Orgal's strength.]

Erebus mocked Goblino's power, which couldn't even penetrate his skin.

A monster receiving the Great Duke's power would surpass its previous limits.

Orgal, with the title of 'Authority of Enhancement.'

If he was only this strong even after receiving the power of such a being.

[Puhuhu. How weak-fisted were you to begin with?]

Erebus ridiculed Goblino.

[You!! If Orgal-nim finds out about this...!!]

[Shut up!!]

Erebus shouted, and Goblino's words were cut off.

Crack. Crackle.

As Erebus put strength into his hand, Goblino's body, covered in muscles, was crushed.

[Betray...al...]

Crack!!

That was the end.

With brute force alone, Orgal's subordinate.

A potential SSS-class monster met its death.

Bang!!

[Orgal wouldn't care about the life of a bug like you.]

Erebus said, throwing away Goblino's body, now a lump of meat.

[Brother, are you alright?]

A giant who had been watching from behind Erebus.

One of the giants leading Gigantes with Erebus, a member of Typhon's bloodline.

Erebus's brother, Aether.

[Nothing to worry about. I expected Orgal to use us like this from the start. Besides, this body wouldn't lose to a succubus or anything. There's no reason to refuse either.]

Thump. Thump.

Erebus said, shaking off the remnants of Goblino from his hand.

Chizik. Chizik.

Electricity sparked from his hand with an ear-piercing sound.

Goblino might not have noticed.

But he had used the power of electricity, thinking ahead to the possibility of super-fast regeneration.

[As expected of you, brother.]

Aether praised Erebus's thoroughness.

Erebus possessed even the calmness to not be complacent and trust in his own power.

If Typhon had been alive, he would have been the next Giant King.

[But what I'm worried about is Orgal's subordinates.... If they find out we took care of him.... Wouldn't they think the giants have rebelled?]

At his brother's concern, Erebus shook his body and laughed.

[No need to worry, brother. Orgal doesn't care about the weak anyway. Rather, that guy would be happy to have lost this bug and gained me.]

The world of monsters is a law of the jungle.

It's only natural for the Great Dukes to want strong subordinates by their side.

Among them, Orgal was especially greedy for dominating other races.

That's why he didn't kill the bloodline of the Giant King he had defeated and kept them alive.

[If that's what you say, brother.... More than that, I didn't really think the territory war would start.]

Aether's expression was not good as he said that.

The giant race had originally not had many members.

And now, only a few dozen remain alive.

He was worried about how many more of the clan would die in the territory war.

[I told you, there's nothing to worry about. The place we're aiming for is Rozaria's castle.]

The Queen of Nightmares, Rozaria.

Erebus spoke her name.

[Certainly... Rozaria's forces could be easily crushed.]

It wasn't impossible, but.

The Great Dukes rarely came to the forefront in the territory war.

Due to the King's restrictions, there were limitations on their activity areas.

In the end, it was the forces below them who fought the territory war.

Just as Rozaria was considered the weakest among the Great Dukes.

The succubi she led were also considered weak among the monsters.

Once, their king Typhon had feelings for Rozaria, but that didn't matter now.

[Yes. If that rumored contractor doesn't show up, we'll be able to easily capture it.]

The human who triggered the territory war.

Rozaria's contractor, Kim Taehyun.

Just a human.

But as time passed, rumors about Taehyun became rampant.

He survived Orgal's castle, invaded Igmun's territory, killed his subordinates, and even succeeded in escaping Belzebub's castle.

As a result of his busy movements.

The balance of the Great Dukes, which had been tight, collapsed, and that influence even reached them, who had been living in seclusion.

[Kim Taehyun, huh.]

Now, it was difficult to find someone among the higher-tier monsters, let alone the top-tier monsters, who didn't know his name.

[I'm thinking of demanding control of the castle as compensation when this is over.]

[Will Orgal agree?]

Orgal has gathered them in this labyrinth, thinking that the giant race might rebel.

But Erebus's thoughts were firm.

[It's already been quite some time since Father passed away. If he wants to gain an advantage in the territory war, he has no choice but to use us.]

That's not wrong.

Even if it's just remnants.

Orgal's power, which has gained the support of the giant race, will skyrocket at once.

The territory war will start with Orgal leaning.

Moreover, if the opponent is Rozaria, there's nothing more to say.

[I will follow you, brother.]

Aether once again swore allegiance to his brother.

Erebus, who was watching that scene, had a bitter expression.

[Tartaros comes to mind.]

Tartaros, one of Typhon's bloodline, like them.

He was one of Typhon's weaker children, but he would have been reassuring if he had been with them.

[If we put in the castle, we'll get news.]

[That's right.]

The two giants recalled their younger brother, Tartaros, who was full of energy.

The deepest part of the Abyss.

Rozaria's fifth castle.

Kwaaa.

Taehyun came out of the gate created inside the castle.

Pajijik. Pajik.

Sparks flew from his body.

It was due to the laws of the Abyss.

'Now, moving to the deepest part won't be easy either.'

There are quite a few among the Great Duke-class monsters, like Rozaria, who can create gates.

Even so, the reason they can't move around freely in the Abyss is because there are restrictions on space-time distortion.

As Taehyun understood it, the restrictions weren't just applied to top-tier monsters.

Depending on the level of the monsters, there were restrictions on location movement.

Beings with great power are restricted from moving outside the deepest part, and monsters at the deep level are restricted from moving to the middle level.

In that regard.

'There's no way there could be a case as advantageous as mine for carrying out the territory war.'

Taehyun thought as he regenerated his torn arm.

Taehyun has several ways to avoid the laws of the Abyss.

Of course, he needs to experiment a little more.

Rozaria must have known that, so she sent Taehyun here.

[Welcome. Are you Kim Taehyun, Rozaria-nim's contractor?]

"Yeah."

Taehyun answered and scanned the monster in front of him.

The appearance was no different from a succubus knight, but.

He felt the restrained power of an SSS-class monster.

Succubus Fairy Muron.

Rozaria's top subordinate.

And one of her few SSS-class subordinates.

It wasn't just Taehyun who was scanning.

Muron also scanned Taehyun, not hiding her displeased expression.

"Why are you looking at me like that?"

[This territory war. You started it, right?]

Muron asked in a cocky voice.

"Yeah."

[What are you thinking? Did you commit such an act without knowing our power?]

It's the language of monsters.

But even in that tone, anger was felt.

"How could I not know? The weakest among the Great Dukes. And its power is by far the weakest, right?"

[You... even knowing that...!!]

"So what?"

[What?!!]

When Muron shouted, magic power exploded.

SSS-class.

Indeed, it was a presence worthy of Rozaria's top subordinate.

But.

"How long were you planning to stay at the bottom? Muron."

Taehyun said indifferently, not caring about the suppressing magic power.

[......!!]

"If you want it that much, I'll stand at the vanguard. Instead, I can take the command of this castle, right?"

Muron's face contorted at Taehyun's provocation.

But Taehyun's words weren't the end.

"If you're scared, die."

Smirk.

The arrogantly raised corners of his lips and red eyes.

It was plausible even in front of a top-tier species.

279

Rosaria's Fifth Star, located in the deepest part.

The giant race arrived at the place guarded by Myuron less than a day after Taehyun arrived.

Far beyond the castle walls.

The number of giants gathered there numbered in the dozens.

"Were there this many giants left?"

Taehyun, who was on the castle's watchtower, muttered as if surprised.

He had heard that the giant race had been defeated by Orgal's demon beast race and scattered or killed.

But the number of individuals he saw now was clearly enough to form a group.

'Rosaria. Did she foresee even this?'

Rosaria had only told Taehyun to go to the Fifth Star and help Myuron.

There were no other words.

But looking at the current situation.

'She thought Myuron wouldn't be able to handle it.'

Just like Mushelan, who was defeated by Blodia before.

Rosaria's top subordinate and a succubus fairy with the power of an SSS-rank monster.

Even Myuron, who had been active in the deepest part for longer than Taehyun, seemed flustered, as if she hadn't even considered the existence of giants.

She was sure that the castle would be targeted by the demon beast race, the vampire race, or the demon race.

[Those shameful creatures were attached to Orgal.]

As Myuron said that, purple magic surged from her body.

'Not bad.'

Unlike Blodia, who used the power of Igmun temporarily, he felt the pressure that only a complete SSS-rank monster could emit.

"So. Shall I go out as the vanguard?"

Taehyun asked casually.

[Don't talk nonsense.]

Myuron turned her fighting spirit towards Taehyun and asked.

Her expression looked as if she would tear Taehyun apart at any moment.

In a conversation with Taehyun before.

At the end of it, she had promised that she would stand at the forefront and take command of the army.

Taehyun yielded, telling Myuron, who was about to start a fight, to do so.

"But you know, right? If I judge that the battle situation is being pushed back, I'll step in."

Taehyun once again demanded a clear answer from her.

[That will never happen. You insolent human.]

Myuron replied sharply.

Taehyun smiled as if it was a satisfactory answer.

At that time.

One of the huge giants stepped forward.

[Listen, Rosaria's dogs. If you quietly abandon the castle and get out, I will spare your lives!!]

Even though he shouted from afar, the sound echoed loudly to the castle watchtower.

The amount of magic in his voice meant that it was enormous.

'Oh….'

Taehyun admired the presence of the guy.

A perfect SSS-rank monster.

In addition to that, he felt an unusual power.

Taehyun glanced at Myuron with a distorted expression.

'This guy will have a hard time.'

Even if they are the same SSS rank, there will be a clear gap.

And Myuron is a succubus species that is relatively weak in combat power.

Compared to the giants, their relative martial power is bound to be lower.

She must know that too.

Even so.

[You're talking nonsense!! You traitor of the race!!]

Myuron shouted without backing down.

Her voice also contained magic and reached the giants.

Reacting to her voice, the succubuses, grand succubuses, succubus knights, and grand succubus knights guarding every corner of the castle laughed out loud.

The castle was filled with their unique overflowing energy, but.

Taehyun knew.

'These guys are nervous.'

The number of succubuses is overwhelming.

But there was a significant difference in the martial power they possessed.

Even if they take advantage of the defense.

'If we fight a full-scale war, the side that suffers more damage is this side.'

How will the battle proceed?

When Taehyun was watching with interest.

Thump. Thump. Thump. Thump.

One giant fell out of the group.

It was Erebus, the leader of the giants who had shouted a while ago.

As he reached close to the castle, magic scattered from the succubuses' bodies.

It was a situation where an attack could start immediately if Myuron's command was given.

[What are you doing, traitor? Do you want me to blow your head off?]

Erebus smirked at Myuron's provocation.

His smile was full of confidence.

[I am Erebus, who leads the giant race, succeeding the former giant king.]

At those words, Myuron's face twitched.

The other guys in the castle were the same.

He could feel them buzzing.

'What is it? Is he a famous guy?'

When Taehyun thought so.

[The giant king's son is parasitizing Orgal! You are a man who doesn't know shame!!]

From Myuron's words, Taehyun could tell that Erebus was Typhon's son.

Just like Tartarus, who was dealt with before.

[Puhuhu. I don't care what you think. But there's no need to make useless sacrifices. How about it? How about we two fight over the control of this castle?]

'Oh.'

Just as Taehyun was intrigued by the unexpected one-on-one request.

Myuron raised her shrill voice.

[The giant race is saying nonsense without any shame. Why should we do that?]

[Are you trying to take advantage of the defense? You should know that such a thing is not suitable for our monsters.]

[Did you learn some cunning tongue tricks after parasitizing Orgal?]

Just as Myuron was about to give the order to attack.

"Why? I seem to be fine."

Taehyun, who had been quietly listening to their conversation, suddenly intervened.

[You… I told you that I have the command of this place.]

Myuron glared at Taehyun with an expression as if she would devour him at any moment for challenging her authority.

"I don't care about the command of the castle. I'm just saying what I think. It's a problem that ends when you and that big guy fight one-on-one, right?"

[If you're going to talk nonsense…]

"Could it be that you. Are you scared?"

[……!!]

Myuron's face was distorted like that of an evil spirit due to Taehyun's attitude of asking casually.

'This guy. He's unexpectedly simple.'

Pfft.

Even if he tried to hold back, he couldn't help but laugh at his simplicity.

It seemed like getting the command of the castle would be easier than he thought.

Rosaria's fifth castle.

Two monsters were facing each other in front of it.

The castle's guardian, Myuron, and the invader, Erebus.

[Puhuhu. That guy seems to be the rumored contractor.]

Erebus was far away.

He looked at Taehyun, who was looking down at him from the castle's watchtower.

It was definitely a human body.

However, the presence emanating from his shining red eyes was no different from that of the top species like them.

[You should worry about your own life.]

Myuron said, growling.

It's because she doesn't like the current situation where she's being played by Taehyun.

What's even more annoying is that Kim Taehyun's words are not wrong.

The world of monsters is the law of the jungle.

It's not uncommon for the strong to defeat the weak and take their position.

But.

Myuron is Rosaria's top subordinate.

She had a lot to carry.

If she loses here, one of Rosaria's territories will be reduced.

Above all.

[You. It's not a lie that you're Typhon's son.]

Erebus of Thunder and Lightning.

It was a name she had heard of.

As one of Typhon's children, he swept through the territory war in the past with power no different from that of the top subordinates.

No matter how much she received Rosaria's authority, he was a formidable opponent.

[Don't worry. I'll cut off your life neatly.]

[Don't act recklessly. You traitor of the giant race who has become a slave.]

[…….]

Suddenly.

Whoosh.

Erebus' fist, which was meant to crush Myuron, was swung.

Myuron, who spread a pair of wings, dodged the attack nonchalantly.

And.

Stab. Stab.

Two tentacles that sprouted from behind pierced Erebus' arm.

[You said his movements are like thunder. But he's slower than I thought.]

Grrrrr.

The two tentacles that had pierced in rotated quickly.

It was something that happened in the blink of an eye.

Thud.

Erebus' huge arm was cut off as it was.

[I'll bring down the iron hammer in place of the dead king.]

Myuron smiled bitterly and detonated purple magic.

"She's doing quite well than I thought."

Taehyun watched the battle between Myuron and Erebus and commented so.

The target of the evaluation was Myuron.

As if the duel was not accepted because of Taehyun's provocation.

Myuron was pressuring Erebus every moment.

The wings that suddenly sprouted boasted high-speed combat, and the tentacles boasted sharpness no less than any famous sword and were slaughtering Erebus' body.

Was that all?

The authority she received from Rosaria.

'Mind control' was restricting the movements of the already huge Erebus.

It was a situation where Erebus could not be perfect in either attack or defense.

'Indeed, she's good enough to entrust the castle to.'

He was sure that an average SSS-rank monster would not be able to withstand her for even a few minutes and would die.

He had such confidence without having to see it.

'But.'

Erebus was also not an ordinary SSS-rank monster.

The son who inherited the blood of Typhon, who was a duke.

He was quickly regenerating the arm that had flown to Myuron and attacking again.

As if losing one or two arms was not a big deal.

Slash.

Myuron's tentacles cut off the back of Erebus' knee.

Kugung.

Because he cut off the tendons, Erebus had no choice but to kneel on one knee as it was.

Pupuput.

Myuron moved her wings busily and mangled the giant's two eyes.

Blood splattered, and flesh flew.

[It's over.]

Myuron's body was concentrated with magic.

Chwaaak.

The two tentacles split and divided into six.

It seemed like she was planning to extract the magic stone as it was.

Ssaeaek.

It was a movement like lightning.

Myuron's body pierced through Erebus' body, which had not yet regenerated his red eyes.

'It's over.'

Ting.

[Skill Stealth (SS) has been activated.]

[Skill Superior Species' Heart (SS) has been activated.]

Sssst.

Taehyun's body was sucked into the darkness.

Myuron was confident of victory.

The fist that Erebus swung was fierce like a giant, and the speed was faster than she could say was a giant.

Even so.

[The compatibility wasn't good.]

The corners of Myuron's lips rose bitterly.

Wings that only a few of the superior species monsters have.

Tentacles that can cut off any strong body.

In addition, the mental control power enhanced by Rosaria's power.

It was natural for Erebus, who was trying to deal with her with only strength, speed, and regeneration, to lose.

But.

Her thoughts went wrong at the last moment.

Pajijijik.

Electricity sparked from Erebus' body.

It was the moment she touched Erebus to extract his magic stone.

Pajijijijij.

The electricity, which was only a weak spark, became as huge as thunder.

Her whole body was tingling.

A brief gap changed the battle situation.

Kwajik.

Erebus' remaining arm grabbed her.

[I was careless.]

See.

Erebus' red eyes, which had finished regenerating, were smiling.

Eudeudeuk.

As Erebus gave strength, the bones of her whole body were tightening.

Just by grabbing her hand, the superior species' strong body was being destroyed.

[Keuhak….]

Myuron groaned without even realizing it.

[It was quite a plausible battle. Succubus Fairy.]

Pajijijijiji.

It was the moment when the electricity spewed from Erebus' body was about to burn Myuron as it was.

Seogeok.

Suddenly, Erebus' arm was cut off by something sharp.

Kugung.

The huge arm fell to the ground.

Myuron, who couldn't use her crushed wings, fell powerlessly.

And.

Sssst.

A man appeared next to her, who had fallen in an unsightly manner.

"You're disqualified as a commander, Myuron. It's a player substitution."

Taehyun, who was carrying a huge greatsword on his shoulder.

He raised his dark red magic and ordered.

280

[Rosaria's Contractor, Kim Tae-hyun.]

Erebus spoke, looking at Tae-hyun, who had suddenly intervened.

"You know me?"

Tae-hyun shook off the thick blood from his greatsword and looked up at the giant figure.

As if sparks were flying from the blood, Tae-hyun's hand holding the sword tingled.

'Lightning. Is it a Giant's power?'

The unbelievable power of the fire Tartarus had spewed out before vividly resurfaced.

Looking back now, he had also used the power of the Giants.

However.

The level of power used by a monster that couldn't cross the wall and a monster that did cross it couldn't be the same.

Erebus's lightning was a different level of power than Tartarus's.

And the shock Muren received from that power didn't seem small.

Because Erebus's lightning still remained and flowed within her body.

If it hadn't been for Tae-hyun.

She would have ended her life in vain.

Crack. Crack.

Erebus's arm, cut off by the 'Apostle of Darkness,' began to regenerate at super speed.

"Wow."

Tae-hyun admired the sight.

Super-speed regeneration was nothing special for a top-tier monster.

But depending on the magic power and control, the speed and frequency varied greatly.

In that sense, the 10-meter-tall Erebus.

Whether it was an arm, leg, or red eye.

Showed a uniform regeneration speed regardless of the part.

Even though he had already suffered several fatal blows from Muren.

It was a different feeling than when viewed from the castle.

'Does the electric attribute of the power affect the regeneration speed?'

Tae-hyun was thinking about it.

[Human. Kim Tae-hyun. It was a sacred duel. Why did you interfere?]

Suddenly.

Erebus asked, sticking his huge face close.

Tae-hyun couldn't help but laugh at the sight.

"A monster talking about a fair duel. Even a passing dog would laugh."

[…….]

Such composure with him right in front of her.

Moreover, such boldness from the one who broke the rules first?

Erebus was silent at that attitude.

It wasn't wrong.

But it didn't suit a human to say that.

[Don't interfere….]

Muren said, belatedly recovering her body.

The physical shock seemed to be gone due to super-speed regeneration.

But her pride seemed greatly wounded by the fact that she was driven to the brink of death and received Tae-hyun's help.

Tae-hyun clicked his tongue at the sight.

"You already missed your chance."

How dare she mock a top-tier monster like herself like that.

Just as Muren was about to shout with fighting spirit.

"Shut up and listen to me. Muren."

Kwaaaa.

A chilling fighting spirit emanated from Tae-hyun's body.

[……!!]

It was a fighting spirit that even Erebus, who was watching, admired.

Cutting off his arm wasn't just a coincidence due to the surprise effect.

Unlike Erebus, who was thinking that.

[How dare…!!]

Muren, whose pride was severely wounded, stirred and tried to unleash her magic power.

Tae-hyun wouldn't let it go.

Tting.

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

Kwaaaa.

The released magic power instantly created a domain of darkness.

Chwaruk. Chwareureuk.

Chains flowing from the darkness wrapped around Muren's body.

Muren was exhausted as she had already used considerable power in the fight with Erebus.

She couldn't easily fend off a skill used by Tae-hyun in perfect condition.

She probably didn't even expect him to use a skill on her.

Kwaddeudeudeu.

The chains that bound Muren's body were pulled taut.

Tting.

[Skill Chains of Binding (SS) has been activated. Targeting the subject.]

[Th-.]

Muren's face was filled with rage at the pain that felt like her wings were being torn off.

"Answer me. Who am I?"

Tae-hyun asked indifferently, as if he didn't care about her feelings.

[Release… you….]

Tting.

[Skill Chains of Binding (SS) has been enhanced. Magic consumption is accelerated.]

Kwaduk. Kwaddeuk.

As the skill was enhanced, the force with which the chains of binding tightened increased.

Top-tier.

Succubus Fairy.

Muren, the top-tier subordinate who received power from Rosaria.

Her body began to break under Tae-hyun's skill.

It was just a skill used by a human.

Yet, it had a power comparable to Erebus's fist.

"I asked who I was."

Deudeudeudeu.

One of her wings was finally broken and fell off due to the tightening chains.

Surprisingly, super-speed regeneration wasn't happening either.

Tae-hyun's magic power, buffed by 'Apocalypse,' was stronger than expected.

She couldn't undo the chains.

But to do so, she had to use her full power.

If she used that much power, she wouldn't have any strength left to face Erebus.

It was obvious that the remaining forces would be trampled by Erebus and the Giants.

So now.

[Damn….]

Muren lowered her head with a curse.

She had to listen to Tae-hyun.

[Kim Tae-hyun… Rosaria-nim's contractor….]

"Good. You remember what we talked about, right?"

If she didn't do it properly.

If she put the castle in danger.

He would take over the command.

She snorted at that time.

But now was exactly the situation that fit those words.

She belatedly realized that she had fallen into the trap Tae-hyun had set.

A curse was about to burst out.

Kwaduk. Kwaddeuk.

She had no choice but to swallow the words that had risen to her chin due to the tightening chains.

"A promise is a promise. Choose."

[…….]

"Whether you entrust Erebus to me and win the battle. Or risk sacrifice to assert that petty pride."

Muren was a proud SSS-rank monster.

But she was also the commander who had protected the 5th Citadel until now.

She had fully grasped Tae-hyun's power, and now that she had recalled her priorities.

She didn't hesitate for long.

She gave up her pride as a top-tier subordinate.

[I will… follow….]

"Good girl."

Tae-hyun deactivated 'Apocalypse.'

Passeusesseu.

The darkness quickly dissipated, and the surroundings returned to their original appearance.

The figure of Erebus, quietly flashing his red eyes, came into view.

"Did I keep you waiting long?"

[You were the de facto owner of the Citadel.]

Erebus commented, having watched the process of Muren's surrender.

Tae-hyun didn't deny it either.

"Yes. From now on, I am the commander of the Citadel. If you defeat me, it means you can enter the city bloodlessly this time."

At those words, Erebus stirred his massive body.

[Puhuhu. Do you think I'll believe those words again?]

It was already a duel he had won once.

From the moment Tae-hyun intervened, Muren had already lost.

Yet, he was applying for another duel.

[You look down on me.]

"No way."

Tae-hyun shook his head.

He also knew.

How contradictory his actions were now.

So.

"I'll make a new offer."

[Tell me.]

"If you win against me, there will be no more battles. I will hand over this Citadel and one more Citadel. Of course, this includes the right to take the captured me to Orgal, or to devour me as you please."

[……!!]

Erebus couldn't hide his surprised expression at those words.

He could have two citadels symbolizing the Archduke's domain and Kim Tae-hyun, the contractor.

[How can I believe those words?]

"Hmm…. I intend to keep my promise. Should I give Muren's head as proof…."

At that moment.

Kwang!!

A huge boulder fell from above.

Tae-hyun easily avoided it.

[Brother!! Are you alright!!]

It was Aether who threw the boulder, rushing out from the group.

[Aether. You're doing unnecessary things.]

Erebus quietly admonished him.

[How dare… break the promise… this kind of….]

Growl.

Aether was more furious than ever.

To him, Erebus was the new king.

The new leader who would revive the Giant race.

From the moment he cut off Erebus's arm, Tae-hyun was nothing short of an archenemy.

[Calm down, Aether.]

Despite Erebus's words, Aether's body moved first.

As expected of a hot-blooded Giant.

His body moved by instinct rather than reason.

He slammed his clasped hands straight down.

Muren, who hadn't fully recovered from Erebus's power and Tae-hyun's skill.

And Tae-hyun, who was standing still.

It was to deal with both of them.

Kwang!!

The ground cracked and stones scattered from Aether's fist.

Unlike Muren, who hurriedly avoided it using her wings.

Tae-hyun barely dodged the fist.

The Giant's red eyes followed the movements of the two beings.

Thwack.

One outstretched arm grabbed the flying Muren.

And the moment another arm was about to grab Tae-hyun.

Swish!!

Aether's hard muscles were cut off by something.

It didn't take long to realize that it was by the greatsword Tae-hyun was holding.

Aether was also a top-tier monster.

The severed arm quickly regenerated at super speed.

That wasn't all.

Chwajajajajajak.

Cold air spewed from his body.

The flesh and blood of Typhon and the one who inherited his power.

Aether of Cold.

It was the name he was called when he once made a name for himself.

The spewed cold air swallowed Tae-hyun and Muren.

The lifeforms that had been pulsating just a moment ago became ice crystals as they were.

[How dare you not know your place….]

Aether growled.

[You got excited, Aether.]

Erebus laughed and put his hand on Aether's shoulder.

He tended to get especially excited about his brother's affairs after losing Typhon.

[Brother, are you okay….]

Aether couldn't finish his words.

Because his ice began to melt with purple magic.

It was an event that happened in the blink of an eye.

Tting.

[Skill Demon's Saliva (SS) has been enhanced. Magic consumption is accelerated.]

[Skill Apocalypse (SS) has been activated.]

[Skill Beast Transformation (SS) has been activated. Specifying the imitation part.]

[Skill Eye of the Superior (SS) has been activated.]

[Skill Heart of the Superior (SS) has been activated.]

For a moment, purple magic and crimson magic soared from Tae-hyun's body.

Tae-hyun, emitting an ominous magic power as the ice completely melted, revealed himself.

Sixth Form of Ancient Korean Martial Arts, Sipjin.

Kwang!!!

Tae-hyun's fist, transformed by Beast Transformation, pierced Aether's chest.

[Keuheok…!!]

The ground trembled as Aether collapsed backward.

Chwarureuk. Chwareureuk.

'Chains of Binding' quickly bound his massive body.

Tting.

[Skill Energy Drain (SS) has been activated. Targeting the subject.]

Tseujeujeujeujeu.

The chains that wrapped around Aether's body began to absorb his magic power.

[Keuk….]

Aether groaned at the unexpected technique.

He never imagined that a human would use such advanced techniques.

He tried to move his arms to shake off the chains.

But the more he did, the more violently his magic power was drained.

It meant that Tae-hyun's magic power was greater than his, a top-tier monster.

[What is this….]

What an absurd ability.

The power of Igmun after Beelzebub.

At this rate, it was only a matter of time before he was defeated.

Just as Aether was about to explode with the magic power of cold again.

"Freeze."

Tae-hyun's greatsword was already touching Aether's neck.

"If you move even a little, I'll cut you?"

Chiiiik. Chiik.

A venomous magic power bloomed on the blade of the greatsword that was saying that.

It was Beelzebub's purple magic power.

He could tell instinctively.

Super-speed regeneration would be useless if he touched that sword.

It was a moment where he could neither do this nor that.

Pajijik. Pajijijijik.

Lightning flowed.

At the same time.

Jeojeojeok.

A crack went through 'Apocalypse.'

Kung. Kung. Kung. Kung.

It didn't take long for 'Apocalypse' to completely break.

[Rosaria's contractor. You're begging to die.]

There was Erebus, emitting electricity from his whole body.

[Still, such power….]

Muren's body froze at the power that was incomparable to when he fought her.

It was a power that would frighten anyone.

"What a noisy knock. Have you decided to accept the new conditions?"

Tae-hyun's face was smiling as he said that.

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