RKP 31-40

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Episode 31

At the same time Taehyun was checking his status window.

Go Tae-wook found Ji Jin-hee, who was still working on paperwork.

"Yes. Did you get through to the committee members?"

"Isn't it always difficult to talk to them?"

"Haha. I'm lucky to have Chief Go. I don't have to deal with those desk jockeys."

Ji Jin-hee's words were sincere.

Thanks to his capable subordinate Go Tae-wook, he could focus solely on the players without worrying about politics.

"It seems the chairman's troubles are ongoing."

"Considering an S-rank dungeon appeared, this is almost free. Have a seat."

Ji Jin-hee, after having Go Tae-wook sit on the sofa, personally made coffee.

"Thank you. It seems Guild Leader Yoo Ah-young has returned."

"Ah-young must also have quite a backlog of approval documents."

Although they have been spending a lot of time together recently, she is still the guild leader of one of the four major guilds.

Her workload would be as much, if not more, than Ji Jin-hee's.

"I have clearly warned the committee members, so they won't be able to move recklessly. I have scheduled an appointment with the press for tomorrow."

"Thank you. Then let's talk about the future."

The future.

At those words, Go Tae-wook put down the coffee cup he was drinking from.

The world's first double dungeon.

They put out the immediate fire, but from now on, it was important to solve the subsequent pile of problems.

"I'd like to hear your opinion first."

As Ji Jin-hee passed the initiative, Go Tae-wook spoke his mind without reservation.

"If it becomes known that a double dungeon has occurred, the great powers will try to dispatch players under the pretext of measurement."

United States. China. Japan. Russia. United Kingdom. Germany. France. Italy, etc.

Numerous great powers were eyeing Shinhan's territory.

Ji Jin-hee knew that this incident would be a good excuse for them.

"That's right. Rather, resolving an S-rank dungeon to this extent is unprecedented."

Gate breaks and dungeon breaks always claim victims.

If it becomes known that they resolved an S-rank dungeon with only four casualties.

It was obvious that the great powers would rummage through Shinhan, citing all sorts of treaties.

"Dragging it out will only buy us two days. Before that, the information will leak to the United States and China."

"Quick indeed. Anyway, these spies are the problem. So, Chief Go, tell me now. Can we say that Kim Tae-hyun is 'National Power Level'?"

At Ji Jin-hee's question, Go Tae-wook was silent for a moment.

Go Tae-wook is one of the top measurement skill users in Shinhan.

Depending on his answer, Ji Jin-hee's plan could be implemented or modified.

Knowing the meaning, Go Tae-wook couldn't answer easily.

"It's still difficult to say for sure. But at least."

"At least?"

"I can confidently say that it's difficult to know the limit of his power. In my opinion, he has a high potential to grow into a National Power Level."

"Ha… Haha… Hahaha…."

At Go Tae-wook's words, Ji Jin-hee laughed heartily.

"National Power Level. That's the most welcome thing I've heard since becoming the chairman. So, how long do you think it will take?"

"He's already using S-rank power at B-rank. His growth rate is also fast. He is expected to exceed SS-rank in as little as two years, or no later than five years."

"Five years… that's adequate. Even though my body is aging, I can keep the chairman's seat until then."

"What are you planning to do?"

"Kim Tae-hyun. I will designate that child as a special protection target of the association. At least while I am sitting in the chairman's seat, no one will be able to touch him."

Ji Jin-hee's eyes shone like never before at Taehyun's existence.

"Does that mean you're going to hide it from the media?"

At Go Tae-wook's words, Ji Jin-hee shook his head.

"I prefer offense to defense. By the way, the top scorer of this exam hasn't been decided yet, has it?"

Every year, the supervisors scored the player exams to select the top and runner-up.

Because the selected applicants received enormous benefits.

The media always talked about the top and runner-up in a fuss.

But this exam was different.

The third exam was canceled due to the double dungeon incident, and the top and runner-up were not decided.

From a public point of view, Taehyun should have deserved the glory of being the top scorer….

"We can't put the burden of this incident on Taehyun alone. I'm going to turn the spotlight related to the double dungeon to player Park Sung-jin."

Ji Jin-hee was considerate of Taehyun, who was still young.

"Player Park Sung-jin. Certainly, other countries will understand if it's him."

"Also. How about deciding the top and runner-up with the 4th exam?"

Ji Jin-hee brought out the plan he had been thinking about.

Go Tae-wook's reaction was positive.

"Certainly, we can catch both the justification and the practicality."

"Contact the media and broadcasters. No, it might be better to broadcast it live. It's also good for distracting attention."

Go Tae-wook saw Ji Jin-hee, who was excited after a long time.

'A 4th exam with a National Power Level player. Thanks to you, it's going to be fun.'

Shinhan's first live player license exam.

In the future that Taehyun's regression had slightly changed.

The 4th exam was confirmed.

Two days later.

After finishing additional examinations, Taehyun, who returned home, was immediately seated at the dining table.

By his aunt and uncle.

"How was the exam?"

"Did you pass?"

"Ah, Mom. I told you, with Taehyun-hyung's skills, he's bound to pass."

Receiving the expectant gazes of his aunt, uncle, and Jaeyoung, Taehyun scratched his head.

He was sure he would pass, but that didn't mean he was guaranteed to pass yet.

'It's not like I failed either….'

At Taehyun's difficult appearance to tell them how it went.

His aunt and uncle laughed awkwardly.

"You worked hard. Still, your aunt is satisfied enough that you awakened. There's always next year's exam, so don't be too heartbroken."

"That's right, Taehyun. The fact that you came back in one piece means our ancestors helped. Yes, indeed."

"Hyung… did you really fail?"

At the reaction that flowed in a different direction than expected, Taehyun sighed.

Then, he took out the three tickets he had received before leaving the exam hall.

Jaeyoung took the ticket from Taehyun's hand.

"I can't give you a definite answer yet. Because this exam isn't over."

"Player License Final… Exam? Hyung, what is this?"

As Jaeyoung asked with a tilt of his head, Taehyun answered briefly.

"4th Exam admission ticket."

"4th Exam?"

"4th Exam? Then does that mean the exam isn't over yet?"

"Honey. Has this ever happened before…?"

Taehyun was the same that a 4th exam was not scheduled.

'Around this time, the world was buzzing with dungeon breaks.'

Until the double dungeon was broken and Park Sung-jin handled the Death Knight Lord.

A total of four undiscovered dungeons caused a chain break.

The association had to go through a three-year dark period while receiving criticism from the media and the international community.

"There was an incident this time, so they say they will hold a 4th exam later. Live broadcast or something. It's an admission ticket."

Taehyun sacrificed Jaeyoung to avoid questions about something he didn't know well himself.

"Jaeyoung, you. Are you going to the center well?"

"O, of course."

"Hmm… are you sure? It looks like you've lost more muscle than when you were training with me?"

"Hahaha. Misunderstanding, misunderstanding. W, What the hell happened to you, hyung? It looks like your body got better while you were taking the exam?"

Jaeyoung, recalling the training they had done together for the past month, asked with a cold sweat.

It was because Taehyun's body looked noticeably better than before he went to take the exam.

"Well, a lot of things happened."

It was a word that Jaeyoung, who didn't know it was because of the soaring charm stat, couldn't understand.

While the four people were having a friendly time.

The doorbell rang.

"Oh my, who is it at this hour?"

After a while.

An exclamation came out of her mouth after checking outside the door.

"Oh my, oh my."

"Who is it?"

Taehyun followed behind his aunt and looked out the door.

"……!!"

Surprisingly.

Night Walker, one of the four major guilds of Shinhan.

The Guild Leader Yoo Ah-young was standing there.

"You're quite timid? You seemed like a complete man when you were taking the exam."

Yoo Ah-young said, looking at Taehyun in the passenger seat.

It was because he refused the offer to go inside the house and got in the car instead.

"You shouldn't bring strangers into your house carelessly."

Even at Taehyun's words of drawing a line, she didn't care.

Fixing her gaze on the old house outside the window, she opened her mouth again.

"Hmm… you live in a pretty frugal place?"

"It just means I'm poor. I'm aware that the investigation is over."

"Ahahaha. Kim Taehyun. You're a more interesting child than I thought."

"What's the purpose?"

Point blank.

Taehyun asked her.

"The purpose. Do you even know who I am?"

"Night Walker Guild Leader Yoo Ah-young. Is there anything else I need to know?"

"And yet this is the reaction…. Hmm… well, okay. Why don't you join our guild? I'll give you the salary you want."

It was as natural an offer as asking what to eat for lunch today.

"I refuse."

Taehyun's refusal was also as natural as if he were stating a predetermined answer.

"What? Why?!!"

Yoo Ah-young showed a reaction that she couldn't understand and stared at Taehyun's eyes.

It was to check if he was playing hard to get.

"Not really. Do I need a special reason?"

Yoo Ah-young made a disappointed expression at the still drawing-a-line answer.

However.

Taehyun, who had already decided to refuse even if a scout offer came in for his future plans.

There was no need to explain the reason to the person in front of him.

"Hmm… it's a pity to lose a talent like you… should I just take you away?"

The atmosphere in the car changed in an instant.

As if a predator was showing off its presence before hunting.

A fierce energy filled the car.

At the sight, Taehyun let out a small sigh.

"Let's keep the line. It's because you're the 'sister' of the class president that I'm dealing with you like this. Then, I hope you go back safely."

It was Taehyun who was about to get out of the car after finishing what he had to say.

"Stop."

Grab.

Yoo Ah-young grabbed Taehyun's arm.

"W.h.a.t d.i.d y.o.u j.u.s.t s.a.y?"

"Cough… Miss…."

The threat of putting magic power into the words.

The driver clutched his neck at Yoo Ah-young's actions.

An oppressive force that made a B-rank player unable to breathe.

On the other hand, Taehyun had an indifferent expression.

"I told you, it's because you're Im Ah-young's sister that I'm dealing with you like this. Or should I even mention the stolen name?"

"You… you're really acting recklessly without knowing your place? Dare to in front of me…."

Yoo Ah-young's magic power began to surge as she was touched on the reverse scale.

A message appeared in front of Taehyun's eyes.

[Skill use detected. Amazoness's Ferocity (S) penetrates. Resisting with a mysterious power. Resistance successful.]

[Skill use detected. Amazoness's Ferocity (S) has been defended. Counterattacking with Knight King's Ferocity (B). Counterattack successful.]

"Ugh… what…!!"

Yoo Ah-young shuddered at the sudden oppressive force that gripped her whole body.

Enduring her own skill, which was an S-rank player.

'You're even aiming for a counter?'

Her eyes fluttered at the unexpected development.

Taehyun, leaning his upper body at the sight, whispered softly.

"Let's keep the line. Ah-young's sister, Miss Ah-young."

"……!!"

Looking at Yoo Ah-young's earlobe turning bright red.

It was Taehyun who was grinning.

Episode 32

"Okay. See you next time."

"......"

Taehyun said what he wanted and got out of the car.

Even during that time.

Yoo Ah-young couldn't say a word.

"Madam."

The man in the driver's seat, who had watched this whole process, waited for her order.

He dared to flirt with the head of the Four Great Guilds.

Considering Yoo Ah-young's personality, it was natural to expect an order to capture him.

Of course, this was all possible because they didn't know Taehyun's potential.

But.

Ah-young, who had collected her emotions in a fleeting moment, didn't meet that expectation.

"Haa... let's go."

"Pardon?"

"I said, head to the Guild."

"Ah, understood."

The man hurriedly stepped on the pedal at Ah-young's agitated voice.

Vroom.

The large sedan rolled smoothly, passing by Taehyun.

'Yoo Ah-young, get a grip. What is this with a kid who's not even twenty yet...’

Her face flushed again under Taehyun's indifferent gaze from outside the window.

Confirming that Yoo Ah-young's car had completely disappeared from view, Taehyun entered his house.

As soon as he opened the door, his aunt, uncle, and Jaeyoung rushed to him.

"Tae, Taehyun, that person just now..."

"Hyung! That was Yoo Ah-young, right? The Nightwalker Guild Leader!!"

Seeing them with their eyes shining brightly, Taehyun nodded.

His body, which had obtained an S-rank skill, was too sensitive to satisfy their curiosity.

"Aunt. I'm going to go in and rest first. I'm tired."

"Ah, okay... I understand."

"Hyung..."

"Hwang Jaeyoung. I know you didn't do your training today, right? Finish it and go to sleep."

"Ugh..."

Jaeyoung immediately averted his gaze.

Taehyun chuckled and entered his room.

Click.

Taehyun locked the door and sat cross-legged on the floor.

He needed to calm his sensitive senses first.

'Yoo Ah-young, huh... interesting.'

The Nightwalker Guild Leader, Yoo Ah-young.

Along with Ji Jin-hee, the association president, the heads of the Four Great Guilds were the most famous figures in Shin Korea.

In particular, Yoo Ah-young had a celebrity-like appearance, an intelligent image, and skills, making her popular not only in Shin Korea but also overseas.

Such a woman had shown interest in him.

Even to the point of visiting him directly to offer him a scout.

It was a moment when he could see how much his presence had grown since the player test.

However.

'Nightwalker isn't enough.'

In his previous life, he would have thought of it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

But even before taking the player test, Taehyun's mind was made up.

To become the world's best player, surpassing national power.

Because that dream was by no means small.

Taehyun had no intention of joining Nightwalker or Alchemist, or any of the Four Great Guilds.

"Hoo..."

His sharp senses had calmed down to some extent.

Taehyun took off his shirt and started doing push-ups.

Sweatdrops began to form on his forehead in proportion to the number of repetitions.

And.

He recalled the events that would unfold in the future one by one.

The pressure from the world's great powers and Shin Korea's response.

The gate breaks and dungeon breaks that were inexplicably increasing.

The simultaneous terrorist attacks by the Mages and the rise of malicious guilds.

And the countless sacrifices that followed the rapid changes.

In his previous life, Taehyun was just a small speck in the changing world, but.

'That's not the case now.'

Less than half a year after regressing, he had become a promising prospect that Shin Korea was paying attention to.

The verification of his own potential was as good as over.

'I should keep the Gluttony a secret as much as possible.'

The source of Taehyun's growing power.

That unknown power was not something that could be simply defined as a skill.

Especially if its nature was extraordinary, stealing from others.

It was obvious that those who were obsessed with the value of justice would tear him apart.

That was why he hadn't told Go Tae-wook about Gluttony, even though he was someone he could trust.

'It won't take long.'

Meeting Yoo Ah-young earlier had solidified his thoughts.

Even with the S-rank 'Amazoness's Ferocity', she couldn't break through Gluttony's defense.

That meant that unless someone with at least SS-rank skills, they wouldn't be able to recognize Taehyun's traits.

Even if it wasn't the item he returned to Go Tae-wook.

It wouldn't be difficult to hide his identity in Shin Korea.

"Huu."

Taehyun stood up after finishing his thoughts.

As much as his whole body was soaked in sweat, his 잡념 (japnyum - idle thoughts) had also disappeared.

"Since I have a new skill, should I refrain from it for a while?"

While wiping sweat with a towel, he saw his face reflected in the mirror.

The charm stat, which was said to only appear in celebrities who had awakened to a high rank.

Was it because the value had risen sharply?

Even though he saw his face every day, he looked particularly handsome today.

"Hmm... so is that why?"

He suddenly remembered the two women who had blushed in front of him.

"Im Ah-young and Yoo Ah-young, huh."

As he thought about the relationship between the future SS-rank player and the head of Shin Korea's Four Great Guilds.

Taehyun's expression turned bitter.

Click. Click. Click.

Camera shutters were going off everywhere.

Reporter Kim was no different.

He pressed the shutter relentlessly.

Since he had been refused interviews by all the competitive applicants, he thought he would at least get some photos.

It had already been an hour since he arrived at the player license test site.

As he had a week ago, he was feeling disillusioned with his life as a reporter.

"The Colosseum, huh... the scale of the test is magnificent."

It was a Colosseum that was even more real than the Colosseum in Rome.

A stage where five thousand examinees would have fought fiercely.

As he walked on the stage of that fierce battle, he remembered the applicant he had interviewed before.

Kim Taehyun.

An average C-rank awakener, but with eyes that were no less than S-rank.

"Haa... damn section chief."

The interview he had worked so hard to get was rejected by his direct superior, the section chief, and was not published in the paper.

Now that everyone was paying attention to S-ranks.

Who would look at an interview with a C-rank applicant?

'Kim Taehyun. I wonder if that kid failed?'

The association cited the obligation to maintain confidentiality and remained silent about the test that had been conducted for a week.

But there was no such thing as a perfect secret.

The fact that the third test was held in a lower-level dungeon and that an S-rank double dungeon was discovered there was a well-known fact.

'If Player Park Seong-jin hadn't stopped it, it would have led to a major accident.'

Of course, he didn't know that this was also information that the association had spread.

"Yo~ Reporter Kim. Did you get any news?"

Reporter Song from the same small magazine company approached and greeted him.

"No. As you can see, I'm broke."

"Haha. Hurry up and catch someone. There are only 500 applicants. There are more reporters than that."

"I agree."

The 4th test was conducted on 500 people who had passed the 3rd test.

It was unprecedented for the Player Association to conduct the test publicly, but what was attracting even more attention was that.

Only 5 of the 10 S-rank applicants from the 1st test had survived.

'What kind of test was conducted here?'

Therefore, like Reporter Kim.

The invited broadcasting companies and media reporters were desperate to take advantage of this opportunity to get a worthwhile scoop.

The outskirts of the Colosseum were already filled with ordinary people.

At first glance, there seemed to be thousands of them.

"Hey, I need to move quickly too."

"Yes, you need to. The smaller our magazine is, the more we have to work hard, right?"

As the two were having such trivial conversations.

A voice echoed from the large speakers installed in the Colosseum.

[The 4th test will be held shortly. Guests inside the test site are requested to leave the barrier immediately. Please maintain the indicated safe distance as the barrier installed on the outskirts of the Colosseum may interfere with electronic devices.]

The already noisy test site became even louder at the announcer's words.

"Prepare the cameras!"

"Hey, don't block the front!"

"Hey, what broadcasting company are you from? Can't you see we got here first?"

"It's live broadcasting!! Let's get our act together!!"

Reporter Kim and Reporter Song hurried out of the Colosseum.

Soon, 500 applicants took to the stage of the Colosseum.

"But, Reporter Kim. Isn't the atmosphere strange?"

"Huh? What do you mean?"

"I mean the applicants. They're all looking at the same place as if they'd agreed on it."

At Reporter Song's words, Reporter Kim belatedly turned his gaze to the Colosseum.

As he said, hundreds of applicants were looking in one direction with determined faces.

At the end of that gaze...

"Oh...? That kid is..."

It was Taehyun.

'Oh dear... is he being targeted by the lower-ranked awakeners? Even so, it's too much to target him so blatantly.'

As Reporter Kim realized the dog-eat-dog world.

The supervisor's brief introduction of the rules began.

A moment later.

[Start!!!]

The 4th player license test began.

At the same time.

Ziiiiing.

Pajijijijik.

Hwareureureureuk.

Kwaga gwa gwagwang.

Skills that were so jaw-dropping they were unleashed.

Only targeting one man.

[Skill usage detected. You have been afflicted with Mental Restraint (A). Resisting with mysterious power. Resistance successful.]

[Skill usage detected. You have been afflicted with Body Corrosion (B). Resisting with mysterious power. Resistance successful.]

[Skill usage detected. You have been afflicted with Hemorrhage (C). Resisting with mysterious power. Resistance successful.]

[Skill usage detected. You have been afflicted with Madness (B). Resisting with mysterious power. Resistance successful.]

[Skill usage detected. You have been afflicted with Earth's Curse (S). Resisting with mysterious power. Resistance successful.]

[Skill usage is detected...]

'So they're coming at me like this from the start.'

Taehyun ignored the constantly popping up messages and moved his body here and there.

This was because even if Gluttony blocked magic-related skills, physical attacks were not.

Those currently in the Colosseum were those who knew of Taehyun's past achievements.

Therefore, they thought that the person who eliminated Taehyun from the 4th test would receive a good evaluation.

The problem was...

'It's already within the expected range.'

Taehyun also knew that.

Using Stone Skin and Stealth, Taehyun evaded those who were tracking him and headed to the center of the Colosseum.

And.

Tting.

[Using the skill King Knight's Ferocity (B). 499 subjects have been designated.]

Taehyun unleashed a new skill in front of many people.

Kuuung!!!!

"Cough...!!"

"Ca, can't breathe...!!"

"Keuhak!!"

Thud. Thud. Thud.

"That bastard... to use that there..."

Yoo Ah-young, who was quietly watching from the audience, muttered with a displeased voice.

It was a skill that had threatened even her, who was ranked 10th in Shin Korea's player rankings, albeit briefly.

There was no way a bunch of rookies who hadn't received proper training could withstand it.

Five hundred applicants were instantly reduced to six.

The audience was silent at this unbelievable sight.

Regardless.

"Now. Shall we begin the 4th test?"

Towards the five survivors who didn't look good.

Taehyun wore the face of a predator.

Episode 33

'Knight King's Aura' is a technique that releases magic power to inflict damage on the opponent.

It's similar to what Go Tae-wook used against the committee members before, but...

the power is on a different level.

'This is similar to Guild Leader Yoo Ah-young's 'Amazoness Aura'... Is this a hidden skill?'

Go Tae-wook, watching from the audience seats, thought in quiet surprise.

Tae-hyun's potential and adaptability were astounding.

From the most likely to be eliminated to a frontrunner for the win at the start of the match.

He reversed the situation with a single skill.

"Now, shall we begin the 4th test?"

Tae-hyun's voice echoed through the audience seats through the speakers.

Gulp.

Everyone's attention was focused on Tae-hyun's next move.

Tae-hyun looked around at the five survivors who were wary of him.

Like Shin Yun-bok, each one of them was an S-rank Awakened who would make a name for themselves in the future.

Generally, S-rank skills had unimaginable power hidden within them, and Awakened ones also had exceptional growth rates.

Therefore, Tae-hyun wasn't surprised when they withstood the new skill 'Knight King's Aura'.

Rather, it was the five survivors who were surprised.

"Kim Tae-hyun..."

"He's gotten stronger...?"

"Hey! This is no joke!!"

"Lim Ah-young!! You should join forces with us!! You can't beat him alone!!"

"......"

The four survivors offered Lim Ah-young an alliance.

It was a proposal that had already been rejected once, but.

They judged that her thoughts would have changed after experiencing this extraordinary power.

But Lim Ah-young's thoughts were different.

'Can we win by joining forces?'

Certainly, if it were Tae-hyun from the 2nd test, she was confident that she could win if they fought again.

He seemed to have grown another step further through the 3rd test, but surely the gap wasn't that big yet.

That's why she rejected the other S-rank applicants' alliance proposals.

'Kim Tae-hyun... Was he hiding his power... all this time?'

Grip.

She felt a gap that made it impossible to see him as the same person from the 2nd test.

It was similar to the pressure of a top-ranked player that she could only feel from her sister Yoo Ah-young.

"Anything else to show?"

Tae-hyun asked, deactivating his stealth skill.

It was a clear provocation, telling them to come at him if they dared.

Even if they were S-rank Awakened, there were three teenagers and two in their twenties.

"You bastard!!"

The first to fall for the provocation was a man in his twenties.

Tring.

[Skill usage detected. You have been afflicted with Earth's Curse (S). You resist with mysterious power. Resistance successful.]

The gap that appears the moment a skill is used.

Tae-hyun, who aimed for that gap, rushed in quickly.

Kwaang!!

As his fist, strengthened with 'Stone Skin', struck his jaw,

Thud.

The man collapsed powerlessly.

"One down for now. Who's next?"

Because he knew the meaning of Ji Jin-hee paving the way by even bringing in broadcasting companies and the press.

Tae-hyun didn't rush.

Tring.

[Skill usage detected. You have been afflicted with Beast's Aura (S). You resist with mysterious power. Resistance successful.]

Kwajik!!

"Two."

[Skill usage detected. Evading Quickdraw Frenzy (S).]

Kwaduk!!

"Three."

[Skill usage detected. Evading Burst Hands (S).]

Woodudeuk!!

"Four."

Tae-hyun, who had knocked down four people in an instant, looked at Lim Ah-young, who was the last one left.

"Class President. What are you going to do? I recommend giving up if possible."

"Kim Tae-hyun..."

Ah-young's eyes wavered.

Because she realized that there was no point in continuing the match any further.

Rather, she would become Tae-hyun's victim in front of everyone, like those who had fallen.

"I gi..."

The moment Ah-young was about to open her mouth.

"If you want, I can do it again like the 2nd test."

At the same time.

Chwachwachwachwachwachwak.

'Ice Age' was activated, and ice pillars soared throughout the Colosseum.

Thud.

Tae-hyun looked down at Ah-young, who had lost consciousness.

"Hoo... Five. As expected, you're the most difficult."

His breath fogged up in the rapidly decreasing temperature.

Kwachang!!!

At the same time, the ice spikes that had been rising here and there on the ground of the Colosseum shattered.

The skill was naturally canceled as the caster fainted.

While Tae-hyun was clenching and unclenching his left hand, which had been frozen by Ah-young's attack,

[The 4th test has ended. The top scorer for this test is... Applicant Number 9200 Kim Tae-hyun. Congratulations.]

After a brief silence, cheers erupted.

It was Tae-hyun's unique one-man show.

After the formal award ceremony ended.

"Please sit, Tae-hyun-gun."

Association President Ji Jin-hee offered Tae-hyun a seat and poured tea.

"Congratulations on being the top scorer. I hope this tea will ease the cold a little."

Lim Ah-young's 'Ice Age' was something that even active players were wary of.

Tae-hyun's body temperature, which had been trapped until just now, had dropped significantly.

"Thank you."

"To think the 4th test would end so quickly. No, considering you even prevented a dungeon break, it's only natural, right? Hahaha."

"You flatter me."

As Tae-hyun spoke modestly, Ji Jin-hee's eyes lit up.

'The more I see him, the more I want him. It's hard to believe he's a teenager.'

In any field, it's not easy for skills and personality to be proportional.

Especially if it's a top-class Awakened, called a superhuman.

Is that why?

As someone who hates beating around the bush, he ended up revealing his true feelings.

"Kim Tae-hyun-gun. If you are officially licensed, wouldn't you like to work for the Association, no, for New Korea?"

An offer to scout from the President of the New Korea Player Association, Ji Jin-hee, no less.

If he just took the hand he offered, his path as a player would be guaranteed.

Who could refuse Ji Jin-hee's offer?

Even so, Tae-hyun couldn't help but ask.

"If I refuse, will it affect the protection I'm currently receiving?"

Tae-hyun asked, thinking of the players who were being operated for his aunt's family.

Even at this moment, the Association's senior players would be watching the Mind's movements.

Ji Jin-hee, who had already received a report from Go Tae-wook, shook his head lightly.

"It's not like that. Protecting civilians from the Mind is the Association's natural duty."

"In that case... I'm sorry."

Tae-hyun politely bowed his head and expressed his refusal.

Ji Jin-hee made a bitter expression at the answer he had expected to some extent.

The Player Association, as a national institution, has enormous power, but.

What ultimately moves people is money.

There was a big difference between the salaries of players belonging to the Association and guilds that operated for profit.

That's why skilled players chose guilds rather than the Association.

"I see... Do you have a guild in mind?"

"It's not like that."

"Hmm... Then are you perhaps planning to start a guild? I'll support you if you want."

"That's not it either. Well, I might start one someday, but I don't intend to do so at least for now."

"Then why...?"

"Because if I belong somewhere, I can't act freely. Whether it's morally or efficiently."

"So, belonging to the 4 major guilds or the Association is less efficient than you moving alone. Is that what you're saying?"

"That's right."

"Hahahahahaha."

Ji Jin-hee burst out laughing at Tae-hyun's audacity.

"Ah, excuse me. I've seen countless players so far, but this is the first time I've heard an answer like yours."

"......"

"Hahaha. I understand. The top scorer of this year has to have that level of ambition."

After saying that, Ji Jin-hee opened the display case.

He took out a sharply honed dagger from there.

"A gift to celebrate your top score. You seem to enjoy close combat. And..."

Ji Jin-hee's gaze turned to the Sage's Ring on Tae-hyun's hand.

"Let's consider overlooking the double dungeon as gratitude for that ring on your hand. Hahaha."

Tae-hyun's lips curled up at the not-bad offer.

"Thank you."

"Your license will be issued as S-rank. I hope that license will be helpful in the work you do."

"It will be a big help."

Tae-hyun's eyes sparkled as he grasped Ji Jin-hee's outstretched hand.

'Of course, to the Association President as well.'

"Krarara."

A grade A monster, Salamander.

Fire spewed from its mouth.

"Shut up, lizard."

Tae-hyun, who dodged it lightly, reached out his hand, and the magic of Gluttony wrapped around the Salamander.

After a while.

Kwaddeudeuk.

Without even putting up resistance.

Tring.

[Magic power increased by 1.]

The boss Salamander of an A-rank dungeon met its end.

"Too stingy for a boss."

Perhaps because he had gained power comparable to S-rank.

After the player test ended, Tae-hyun's growth was progressing slowly.

"Do I have to go to the Abyss soon?"

A month after receiving his license.

Tae-hyun was constantly running around dungeons.

Normally, he would have to form a party and wait for the official procedure, but....

"That's why it's good to be S-rank."

From the moment he became the twelfth S-rank player in New Korea, there was no need for that.

That wasn't all.

As a result of the Association's policy allowing teenagers to apply for the player test, various benefits were given to teenagers who had obtained licenses.

The reason Tae-hyun could focus on dungeon raids without going to school was also for that reason.

Like that, a month passed.

Most of the dungeons in New Korea were conquered by Tae-hyun.

Deudeudeudeuk.

The break started as the boss maintaining the dungeon died.

Because he devoured everything without leaving any corpses, there were no magic stones to collect.

"Oh, oh! He's coming out over there!!"

"Player Kim Tae-hyun!! Did you succeed in conquering the dungeon alone this time again!!"

"You've conquered the last dungeon in New Korea! Please say a word about your impressions!!"

Dozens of reporters who had been waiting for Tae-hyun to come out took pictures and turned their cameras.

Kim Tae-hyun, the hottest player in New Korea right now.

Just releasing an article related to him guarantees explosive views and viewership.

'Tsk. It's inconvenient that things like this happen since I've become famous.'

That was what he was thinking while waving his hand at the reporters.

"You're the youngest S-rank player in New Korea!! Are you dissatisfied with your current ranking!!"

"There's a rumor that you're dating Guild Leader Yoo Ah-young, is it true!!"

Various questions poured out.

'Annoying.'

Looking at these people who only kept saying what they wanted to say, he almost missed the Salamander he had dealt with earlier.

At that time, one reporter's shout reached Tae-hyun's ears.

"Player Kim Tae-hyun! There will be an Asia Player Friendship Match in two months!! Are you participating in this!!"

Everyone's gaze turned to Tae-hyun's mouth.

'Come to think of it, it's almost that time.'

Tae-hyun's head spun quickly.

There was no need for long answers to questions like this.

"If the nation calls me. I must participate."

Asia Player Friendship Match.

Tae-hyun, recalling the events of his previous life, smiled meaningfully.

Okay, here's the translation of chapter 34:

Chapter 34

Taehyun was in the Alchemist Guild's VVIP lounge, reading recent articles.

"Player Kim Taehyun Expresses Intent to Participate in the Asia Player Goodwill Competition."

"Association States Representative Selection Process Remains the Same as Before. Selected Based on Contribution Points."

"Is South Korea Becoming the Safest Zone in the World? Over Ten Fewer Dungeons Compared to Last Year."

"Rookie's Rebellion. Kim Taehyun Currently Ranked 130th in Contribution Points."

"Kim Taehyun Sets New Record at the Largest Blackhead Training Center in the Country."

"Ominous Movements of Malicious Guilds. Guild Leader Still Missing."

"Gossip material... I'm practically a celebrity," Taehyun mused.

From some point on, Taehyun had grown used to seeing his name in the media.

It was understandable, being one of only twelve S-rank players in South Korea.

Compared to other S-ranks in the Abyss, Taehyun's actions in South Korea were easily noticeable.

"Well, not that I regret it."

Taehyun thought of the other candidates who received their licenses with him.

This year, in particular, candidates of various ages, from teenagers to those in their forties, received licenses...

But Taehyun was the only one with an S-rank license.

'I wonder what that person is doing right now.'

Taehyun thought of Im Ayoung, who stood on the podium with him.

In his past life, Ayoung was definitely the top candidate, and Lee Jungjae was the runner-up.

But after his regression, Taehyun became the top candidate, and Ayoung the runner-up.

Lee Jungjae hadn't even been able to take the exam.

'Surely, the future won't change this much, will it?'

The future could change little by little depending on his actions.

What results would these minor changes bring?

Taehyun shook his head, dismissing his worries.

"Well, it's better than starting from the bottom."

Just as awakening ranks and skill ranks were graded differently, licenses were naturally given according to ability.

The player world was tough enough that even an S-rank Awakened could start with a B-rank or C-rank license.

More than anything.

An S-rank license was essential if he wanted to be a representative in the upcoming goodwill competition.

'Goodwill competition... This will be interesting to watch.'

The Asia Player Goodwill Competition, scheduled for two months later.

As grand as the name suggested, it was a competition involving fifty players selected from ten countries.

It was meant to show that justice was not dead in a world where monsters and demons were rampant.

'A kind of sport.'

Taehyun sipped his coffee and searched for items related to the goodwill competition.

Photos of demons and monsters captured by representatives from each country were circulating.

In addition to this, videos and SNS reactions were noticeable.

[I heard there's a goodwill competition in two months, what is it? For reference, I'm entering elementary school this year.]

[Elementary schooler. You don't need to know that, go read your textbook.]

[The comment above is too harsh lol. I think even elementary schoolers have the right to know. And if you haven't entered elementary school yet, you're a kindergartener.]

[I guess it's because the level is too high for elementary school students lol. To be honest, it's called a goodwill competition, but it's practically legal murder.]

[The comment above. If you knew the social atmosphere before the goodwill competition, you wouldn't say that? The only reason ordinary people aren't trembling with anxiety is because things like this exist.]

[Yeah, that's right. The comment above is at least in their forties.]

[Anyway, I'm looking forward to this Asia Player Goodwill Competition. It's fun to watch the star players.]

[Will Kim Taehyun come out this time?]

[Eh... Still, Kim Taehyun isn't at the level to participate here yet.]

Various goodwill competitions had established themselves as world festivals.

Whether these kinds of things were morally right or wrong.

Arguments were raging on SNS about such content.

The sight of monsters and demons being hunted was broadcast.

The reason was to give hope to their citizens.

Several countries other than South Korea had already made agreements with broadcasting companies and were doing it.

The player goodwill competition had simply added a sense of competition between countries to that.

'I used to watch it a lot too.'

Taehyun's expression turned bitter as he recalled his listless past life.

In particular, the 'Asia Player Goodwill Competition', one of the five major player events, held competitions in two areas.

Monster Hunting and Demon Hunting.

They placed bounties on demons and monsters, from dozens to hundreds.

The rankings were determined by the combined contribution of the representatives from each country.

This annual event allowed countries to show off their national defense capabilities, and gave individual players an opportunity to make a name for themselves.

"Let's see... Which countries are participating this year..."

Taehyun manipulated the tablet provided and searched for the list of participating countries.

[Participating Countries in This Year's Asia Player Goodwill Competition:

South Korea, China, Japan, Hong Kong, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Philippines, Taiwan, Qatar, Singapore.]

The only three countries that consistently participated every year were South Korea, China, and Japan.

The other seven countries changed every year depending on the total contribution points of players at the end of the year, and considering the level of the competition, seeds were not easily given just because they belonged to Asia.

'Should I meet with the Association President?'

Taehyun collected himself, after thinking for a moment.

Using connections as a shortcut without even starting.

That wasn't in Taehyun's character.

He'd rather build contribution points using a shortcut.

'Build contribution points using a shortcut...'

Taehyun's mind raced.

'The South Korean representative selection method is based on player contribution activities. My current ranking is...'

Taehyun checked the player rankings, which were being updated in real-time on the provided tablet.

"125th place... Not nearly enough."

Considering that it had only been a month since he started player activities, it was an unbelievable rise in the rankings...

But in order to qualify as one of the five representatives, he needed to be in the top 10 at the very least.

Even that was because Taehyun had been searching and攻略ing dungeons like crazy.

It didn't seem easy to enter the top 10 in the remaining month until the representative selection.

At that moment, an idea flashed through Taehyun's mind.

Besides conquering dungeons, an efficient way to accumulate contribution points was to hunt demons.

In order to hunt demons, the basics were to figure out what they were after and where they appeared.

Unless it was a guild like Nightwalker, it was nearly impossible for ordinary organizations or individuals to gather such information.

However.

'That's not a problem for me.'

Time was running out, but he had the power and the information.

Raising his contribution ranking to 10th place within a month.

'It's worth a try.'

It didn't seem impossible.

Taehyun, who had assessed the possibilities, checked the time.

Fortunately, the location was the Alchemist's building, one of the four major guilds.

Taehyun did not hesitate to press the button to call the person in charge.

One hour later.

A warp zone located in the basement of the Alchemist building.

Taehyun, standing in front of a small warp gate, was waiting for permission to move.

In the meantime, he looked at the list of those who would be competing with him for a spot as a South Korean representative.

'They're all amazing names.'

Players who were like stars that he wouldn't have dared to dream of meeting in his past life.

He had to surpass the contribution points they had accumulated in order to be selected as a representative for the goodwill competition.

In fact, until just a day ago, Taehyun hadn't been seriously thinking about going to the goodwill competition.

Just like the player test, accidents and incidents were endless at the goodwill competition.

In addition, this goodwill competition was on a global scale, with a whopping 10 countries participating.

He judged that it would be more advantageous to slowly grow stronger in South Korea than to get caught up in an international incident.

But.

'The grade of Predation isn't rising as much as I thought.'

Taehyun opened his status window.

Name: Kim Taehyun

Age: 19

Rank: B

Strength: 107 Stamina: 105 Speed: 103 Magic Power: 160 Charm: 30

Fatigue: 40%

Remaining Magic Power: 160/160

[Skills]

Predation (B) - Can prey on the desired target. Yokai Power: 40

Stone Skin (B) - Can strengthen the body. Yokai Power: 30

Stealth (B) - Can hide the body. Yokai Power: 25

Paralysis (B) - Restrains the target's body. Yokai Power: 20

Lord's Heart (B) - Increases the stats of party members. Yokai Power: 30

Knight King's Ferocity (B) - Overwhelms the opponent with ferocity. Yokai Power: 35

Predation, which had always been displayed as a percentage, was now shown as B-rank.

Knowing how much experience was left until the next grade and not knowing was a world of difference.

That was why Taehyun, feeling frustrated, was preying on monsters even at the cost of giving up magic stones.

Nevertheless, only his magic stat went up little by little, and there was no change in relation to Predation.

His physical form had long since surpassed his porter days.

He was realizing that it was no longer easy to raise his stats with training alone.

'Undiscovered dungeons are still appearing, but... since most of them are low-level dungeons, the efficiency isn't good.'

The first thing that came to mind was to enter the Abyss and prey on the highest-level monsters...

However, there were too many opportunities scattered in various places to immediately enter the Abyss and live there.

Opportunities that Taehyun, who had regressed, could seize, opportunities containing endless possibilities.

'It's not too late to go to the Abyss slowly. Before that, I have to get everything I can from Earth.'

That's why Taehyun's mind was leaning towards participating.

Even if 'that incident' were to occur.

Then, the person in charge who had been waiting came.

"Player Kim Taehyun, thank you for waiting. Because such expensive items are coming out this time, it wasn't easy to issue an entry pass."

"No. There are set procedures, so I should naturally wait. Thank you for your hard work."

Taehyun gave a kind smile.

"Thank you for saying that. I've told the person in charge on that side, so you don't need to present an admission ticket separately. Is there anything special you're buying?"

"If there's anything good."

"Then, all the profits and expenses generated from the auction will be directed to our Alchemist side. We will settle it later."

"Thank you."

Taehyun bowed his head and moved towards the shining gate.

"Have a good time."

Receiving the man's send-off.

Shush.

Taehyun's body was sucked into the gate.

Shush.

It felt like he was riding an extreme ride.

'Wow.'

Taehyun uttered a small exclamation.

In front of him were dozens of small gates like the one he had just used, and a large man.

He could be mistaken for a gangster.

A man with an impressive scar on his face bowed to Taehyun.

"Welcome, Player Kim Taehyun. I received a call from the headquarters."

"Nice to meet you. How long until the auction starts?"

"In one hour."

"That's good. Can I look around a bit?"

"Haha. Of course. I'll guide you."

"Thank you."

Taehyun walked towards the auction house building with the man.

Thinking about the terror that would happen soon...

35

The man assigned to guide him at the alchemist's request was named Park Geon-woong.

He was an A-rank Awakened individual who had a contract with the alchemist as a security escort.

This was because a significant portion of the alchemist's potions and items were also being auctioned off at the auction house.

"I never imagined the famous SVIP customer would come to the auction in person. Is there anything special you're looking to buy?"

"Who knows? It's the famous Westpoint, isn't it? There's nothing you can't find there."

Tae-hyun answered Park Geon-woong's question with a grin.

Westpoint Auction House.

Founded by a former U.S. Secretary of Defense after his retirement, it had the highest level of trust due to its various connections.

In ten years, it would expand to the point of swallowing up underground auctions.

Tae-hyun was currently at the Japanese branch of Westpoint Auction House before its rise.

It could only be accessed through a warp gate registered by the organizers.

It was protected with airtight security, making it as safe as any border.

'To think a terrorist attack would occur in a place like this.'

Tae-hyun didn't know much about this terrorist attack either.

All that was known was that the Japanese side had hired an S-rank player as security, but they suffered enormous losses due to the Mind's terrorist attack.

Nevertheless, Tae-hyun was able to recall this place because.

The attacker was the infamous 'Narendra Neru.'

'I can't guarantee victory, but he's someone I should fight at least once.'

Narendra Neru.

If he were to participate in the Asian Player Friendship Games, there would likely be many strong opponents like him.

Besides accumulating contribution points by stopping the terrorist attack, there was another thing he had to keep in mind.

Terrorist attack and Minds. Escort. Auction items. Narendra Neru.

While he was thinking about various possibilities for a moment.

"I've heard rumors that you've been working hard in dungeons, but it seems you've also made a lot of money? Haha."

Park Geon-woong, unaware of his thoughts, simply smiled kindly.

"Well, it's not a small amount of money. More than that, who is the head of security for the auction?"

"Isaka Ryohei. Like Tae-hyun, he's a licensed S-rank."

Park Geon-woong said as if it were a dirty word.

"Have you met him?"

"Well... as the head of security..."

"You don't seem to have a good expression?"

At Tae-hyun's persistent question, Park Geon-woong let out a long sigh.

"Haa... he's a nasty guy. Of course, his skills are certain."

Seeing Park Geon-woong grimace like a bandit, he didn't ask any further.

'Isaka Ryohei, huh? A troublesome guy is in charge of security.'

Demon Isaka Ryohei.

A Japanese S-rank player who uses a katana.

He had heard about his infamy.

He wouldn't hesitate to put his comrades in danger for profit, and he would even cut down party members he didn't like.

That's why he was nicknamed Demon.

'I heard he was being disciplined for cutting down a party member. So he was here.'

All that was known about him was his infamy.

It was impossible to gauge how skilled he was, but since he was an S-rank, he couldn't let his guard down.

Above all, the fact that an auction house guarded by such a guy was defenseless against a terrorist attack only increased the danger of Narendra Neru.

"Well, Tae-hyun, you're an S-rank as well, so I might be overstepping, but... I personally recommend not running into him."

Tae-hyun nodded at Park Geon-woong's sincere advice.

"I understand. I'll keep that in mind."

But.

Life doesn't go as planned.

He had parted ways with Park Geon-woong and was looking around the auction house.

Tae-hyun, who had changed into a suit and put on sunglasses, looked like just another participant at the auction house.

But.

There was someone who noticed Tae-hyun's presence.

"Who do we have here?"

[The automatic translation function of Earring0229 is activated.]

The automatic translation mode of the equipped earring was activated.

A man leading a group stopped in front of Tae-hyun.

Tae-hyun averted his gaze from the decorations in front of him.

"The rising star of New Korea and the twelfth S-rank, Kim Tae-hyun, am I right?"

He was a slender man with weasel-like, slanted eyes.

He smiled slyly and spread his arms excessively.

'Isaka Ryohei.'

Tae-hyun's eyebrows twitched behind his sunglasses.

But soon, as if nothing was wrong, he smiled and extended his hand.

"I'm meeting a Japanese ranker here. Nice to meet you. I'm Kim Tae-hyun."

"You look younger than I heard. I wouldn't have recognized you if I hadn't been informed."

Isaka Ryohei clasped Tae-hyun's hand.

"Is that... Kim Tae-hyun?"

"Korea's twelfth S-rank player?"

"I don't think he's here as security?"

"So the rookie saved up some money, huh."

Tae-hyun opened his mouth, ignoring the surrounding reactions.

"I didn't expect my information to be shared so quickly."

Squeeze.

Even with the crushing grip, Tae-hyun didn't lose his smile and asked casually.

"I manage all the lists of those who enter this place. Even S-ranks are not an exception."

Isaka Ryohei let out a sneering laugh and released his grip.

"What brings you here? Is there something you need?"

Westpoint Auction House was a place where a lot of items were traded.

But that was only when it was aimed at the general public.

It was uncommon for S-ranks who hunted monsters in the Abyss or operated large guilds to visit auction houses.

'Unless they have other purposes like me.'

His snake-like intuition was activated, and he licked his lips.

Tae-hyun faced him without changing his expression.

'He's blatantly showing his hostility. He's an interesting guy.'

It felt like he was being pricked all over with needles.

Isaka Ryohei.

The others around him were already gasping for breath from the killing intent he was emitting.

It was obvious that if this confrontation continued, there would be people fainting.

'With a terrorist attack happening, there's no need to reduce the security force.'

Tae-hyun took a step back and raised both hands.

"I heard there were good items before entering the Abyss. I guess my actions looked suspicious to the head of security."

At the clear indication of surrender, Isaka Ryohei burst into laughter.

"Hahaha. I've been rude. It's an unbelievable power for someone who's achieved so much at that age, Kim Tae-hyun."

"You're too kind. Then I'll continue looking around the auction house. The building is so large, you see."

Just as Tae-hyun was about to pass by.

"Ah, I've heard that in Korea, the word 'young' also means 'foolish.'"

"......"

"Seeing that New Korea has also changed its association policy following our Great Japanese Empire... I think I know the situation of the 'small country's' players."

At the clear provocation, the room froze over.

Everyone's eyes were on Isaka Ryohei, who had thrown the dagger, and Tae-hyun.

Depending on Tae-hyun's reaction, there could be a commotion.

And the fight between S-rank players could escalate into a diplomatic dispute between countries.

However.

"Since Chief Isaka Ryohei is here, I don't have to worry about the auction house's safety. Then, please take care."

Tae-hyun passed by him as if nothing was wrong.

"Hmph. Arrogant guy."

Isaka Ryohei spat on the floor.

His provocation didn't work, so he ran out of steam.

If he had his way, he would release his power and check his skills regardless of the surrounding gazes...

'I can't ruin the big picture with trivial fun.'

Isaka Ryohei calmed his excitement as he recalled what was about to happen.

Before he knew it, his face had turned into a demon's.

30 minutes before the auction started.

In a hideout with multiple small warp gates installed, a group of people was waiting for orders.

A man returned to the hideout through a warp gate.

He approached another man, who was meditating in the innermost part of the hideout.

"Boss. There's been a variable."

"What is it?"

"New Korea's S-rank player Kim Tae-hyun has appeared. He's the twelfth guy that the association has designated as a specially managed individual."

"...Purpose?"

"There doesn't seem to be anything particularly suspicious... but it seems he's trying to participate in the auction. What should we do?"

At his subordinate's question, the man opened his eyes.

Black mana began to ripple from his body.

"Huff..."

The subordinate gasped at the uncontrolled S-rank's mana.

"What are you afraid of? Isn't that why I, 'Narendra Neru,' am here?"

He was a gaunt body with only bones.

As the 2-meter-tall man stood up, the Minds in the area bowed their heads.

"Contact the spy. Tell them to proceed as planned."

A voice that sounded like scraping metal swept through the area.

Narendra Neru.

An Indian S-rank Mind and the worst terrorist with monster summoning skills.

"Even an S-rank pup cannot stop the 'divine revelation'."

He smiled, revealing his black, rotten teeth, even though he was known to be in the Abyss.

The building was so large that it took a considerable amount of time to look around.

It was long after the auction had started when Tae-hyun entered the auction house.

A significant number of items had already been sold at the auction, which was already halfway through.

'What's the point of all this? If it's going to be stolen anyway.'

At the trading scene where enormous amounts of money were being exchanged, Tae-hyun quietly raised his senses.

His physical abilities were activated, and even whispering sounds could be heard loudly.

There was one hour left until the end of the auction.

The incident would happen within that time.

[Now, the item we're introducing this time is an ultra-rare potion. An elixir made by diluting the blood of an S-rank monster, the Phoenix! It's called the Phoenix Potion! If you drink it, it will not only increase your magic power but also your stamina! The creator is none other than Nobel Chemistry Prize winner Professor Bill Kemp! Let's start from 10 billion!]

Was it because of the word "stamina"?

Unlike the giggling noblewomen, many men began to raise the bidding price.

Before he knew it, the price had jumped to 50 billion.

Then.

"I'll double it. 100 billion."

An old gentleman raised his cane high.

People who recognized the old gentleman buzzed.

"Crazy... it's the chairman of DynaSoft? I heard he remarried..."

"Damn it. 100 billion. That precious item is going to be the old man's stamina tonic..."

"Hehehe."

The one called the DynaSoft chairman won the item with a winner's laugh.

The Phoenix Potion immediately disappeared behind the stage.

'The Phoenix Potion... it's a potion I'd like to have.'

Tae-hyun was also tempted.

Of course, he was interested in magic power, not stamina...

But that wasn't what was important now.

After that, many tempting items like the Phoenix Potion appeared.

There were also quite a few rare-grade and unique-grade items.

But nothing that caught Tae-hyun's attention came out any further.

And just when he thought the auction was coming to an end.

Bang!!!

With an explosion, the area went black.

'Bingo.'

"Anyone who moves will get a hole in their head!!"

People wearing masks shouted in the darkness.

The threat was drowned out by the sounds of gunfire and explosions from all directions.

The auction house security had begun to move.

Screams and shouts followed.

In that midst.

'Shall we start moving?'

Swish.

Tae-hyun quietly used stealth.

Episode 36

"You bastards...!!"

Park Geon-woong's fist crushed one of the Mabin.

'Body Enhancement' was a common skill, but...

The power of an A-rank player was beyond what a B-rank Mabin could handle.

He glared fiercely at the four Mabin that were lunging at him, aiming for the goods.

He had already taken down six Mabin.

However, those who had been escorting him had already lost their lives.

In other words, if he fell, the hundreds of billions worth of auction items that Alchemist had prepared for this auction would be offered to the Mabin.

'Damn it. What is the main force doing?'

He thought he had stalled for enough time, but there was still no movement from the main force led by the chief of security, Isaka Ryohei.

Rather, the number of Mabin entering through the gate only increased with time.

"Damn it. If I had known it would be like this, I would have asked for a higher down payment."

Park Geon-woong grimaced and focused on his skill again.

Four opponents remained.

They were hesitant to approach, intimidated by Park Geon-woong's power, who had already defeated six Mabin.

Then, a man stepped forward.

"A-rank player Park Geon-woong of Shinhan Kuk. You're more impressive than the reports suggested."

"Damn it. I don't feel good at all getting compliments from Mabin bastards. What country are you guys from?"

Park Geon-woong's Shinhan Kuk language was automatically translated through his earpiece.

The man smirked.

"This is all God's will. We will take Alchemist's goods."

The Mabin surrounding them threw hidden weapons.

Poopoopook.

Some of them pierced Park Geon-woong's enhanced body and became embedded.

"Kugh..."

Park Geon-woong groaned, looking at the needles and throwing stars stuck in his arms and legs.

He felt his body gradually stiffening, as if they were poisoned.

'Damn it... is this really the end...?'

He squeezed his eyes shut, seeing a Mabin rushing towards him.

Then.

Kwaang!!

Something invisible sent the Mabin aiming for Park Geon-woong flying.

Would that be what it's like if a dump truck hit a person?

Then.

Kwaang!! Kwajik!! Kwadeuk!!

The other Mabin, unable to hide their shock, were also sent flying in an instant.

They looked like bowling pins hit by a bowling ball.

'What...'

Numerous Mabin lay collapsed in front of Alchemist's goods.

Stricken with paralysis poison, he began to wonder how he should comprehend this situation.

'Why are there so many?'

Tae-hyun, who had passed Park Geon-woong and entered alone, cut off the neck of another Mabin and passed by.

As this was a battle against many opponents.

He had taken out the dagger gifted to him by the Association President in order to minimize the strain on his stamina.

The rare-grade dagger, Talisman.

An item born from a skilled artisan carefully forging an A-rank Mabin's magic stone. It did not have any special traits, but...

Its sharpness was not inferior to unique-grade items.

'Talisman. As expected, luxury items are different.'

Tae-hyun wore a satisfied expression as he looked at the dagger stained with Mabin blood.

He hadn't had the opportunity to use it, as he mostly dealt with monsters through Devour in dungeons.

However, it was the perfect weapon for dealing with Mabin in the current situation.

More than anything.

'It goes well with the Paralysis skill.'

Tae-hyun looked back at the Mabin that couldn't move after being cut by the Talisman.

Even the ones that weren't killed instantly were slowly dying from the effects of the Paralysis skill.

The Paralysis skill was originally magic-based, but...

'Its principles are no different from physical skills.'

Tae-hyun's skill understanding and magic control had improved as he became a B-rank.

He was trying out various applications instead of sticking to the basic usage of his skills.

Like how he used it recklessly in the Player 2nd Exam. If he used the Paralysis skill at the same time as slashing with the dagger...

Ttiring.

[Skill Paralysis (B) has been used. Ignores the target's resistance.]

The opponent was immediately affected by the skill.

That was why Tae-hyun was running straight ahead without checking the Mabin's life or death.

If he kept wandering around like this, the main escort force would catch up and deal with them.

Tae-hyun's goal was not these small fry, but Narendra Neru, the mastermind behind the terror attack.

He had to figure out how to contact him before the damage got any worse.

Ppipit.

'Stone Skin,' 'Stealth,' and 'Paralysis.'

Tae-hyun increased his speed in dealing with the Mabin by layering three skills.

When the number reached over thirty.

'Something's wrong.'

Tae-hyun's expression turned strange at the unpleasant sense of foreboding.

Seogeok.

He slashed the back of a Mabin running with auction items.

'Lax.'

With the exception of cases where Alchemist had hired their own security to escort items, there were few who were resisting the Mabin.

The inside of the auction house was off-limits due to the VIPs, but...

The outside of the auction house was practically a playground for the Mabin.

Above all.

'The main force guys are nowhere to be seen.'

The same went for the head of security, Isaka Ryohei.

If he had been moving, the situation wouldn't have deteriorated this much.

Tae-hyun grabbed the neck of one of the Mabin that was beginning to be paralyzed.

"Hey. Where did your boss go? I'm talking about Narendra Neru."

Even with the Talisman pointed right in front of his eyes, the Mabin did not tremble.

Rather, he forcibly writhed his unmoving body and burst into mad laughter.

"Keuheuheuk... Glory to the servant of God...!!"

Kkadeuk!!

The Mabin bit his tongue and committed suicide.

"Crazy bastard."

Tae-hyun frowned at the fanatical behavior.

People entered the path of the Mabin for various purposes, but...

He felt uncomfortable even while killing those with religious inclinations like this.

Then, Tae-hyun faintly heard the sound of an argument.

"T, this can't be!!"

"Hehehe. The old man is still full of energy. I won't kill you, so just hand over the goods."

The chairman of the global corporation Dynasoft.

He had won the Phoenix Potion for 100 billion and was resisting the Mabin while holding the box in his arms.

Around him, the corpses of five dead guards were chillingly cooling down.

A security team made up of A-rank Awakened ones couldn't handle a single Mabin.

But the chairman was desperate.

As if the box was his very heart, he continued to resist while holding it in his arms.

"K, kill me instead, you bastard!!"

"I want to do that too, but I can't. It's an order for now."

The Mabin slapped the chairman's cheek with his large hand.

Cheolseok.

"Keoheok!"

And he slapped the fallen chairman's cheek again.

Jjaak.

Teolseok.

The 70-year-old man couldn't withstand the Mabin's strength and fainted.

The Mabin picked up the box from the old man's arms.

"Tch. It's annoying to control my strength. I want to kill you, but..."

"Want to kill me?"

Booung.

The Mabin quickly swung his fist at the presence he felt from behind.

The fist only cut through the air.

The Mabin, keeping his distance, stared at the place where he felt the foreign presence.

"Who are you... reveal yourself."

"I've never heard of Mabin being picky about killing."

The answer came from the unexpected right.

'Stealth skill!!'

The Mabin, having grasped the situation, immediately used a skill.

Skill 'Chains of Binding.'

Chwarararak. Chwararararak.

Dozens of chains containing A-rank magic power appeared in the air.

Chwareureuk. Chwareureureuk.

The chains shook here and there, tracking the traces of magic power.

Soon after, Tae-hyun, whose stealth had been dispelled, revealed himself.

His arms and legs were entangled in the chains.

"Wow. This is a convenient skill?"

Tae-hyun said, struggling to break free from the chains constricting his body.

"If you had quietly hidden, you would have at least saved your life. You're hastening your death."

The man reached out to Tae-hyun.

He was reinforcing the skill.

Kwaduk. Kwadeudeuk.

It was a power that could crush even an A-rank player.

However.

Kkadeudeuk. Kkadeudeudeuk.

The chains failed to penetrate Tae-hyun's 'Stone Skin,' only continuing to create an unpleasant sound.

Tae-hyun grinned at the sight.

His physical abilities had improved enough to withstand an A-rank skill.

"I agree. If you had quietly told me, you would have saved your life."

A dark red magic power rose from Tae-hyun's body.

The Mabin belatedly recalled new information.

"You, you're..."

S-rank player Kim Tae-hyun of Shinhan Kuk.

The information that he had belatedly participated in the auction.

Ttiring.

[Unique skill Devour has been used. The target is determined according to the user's perception.]

"I will enjoy this."

Along with the eerie sound.

The Mabin's scream echoed through the hall.

It was a minor incident that occurred in a secret passage where CCTV cameras were not present.

Ttiring.

[Devour has been completed. Skill Chains of Binding (B) has been registered.]

Tae-hyun, after checking the message, deactivated Devour.

He saw the box lying on the floor.

The item that the Dynasoft chairman had tried to protect with his life.

"What the hell is this..."

Ttalgeok.

Tae-hyun opened the box, which had no safety lock.

At that moment.

'......'

Tae-hyun's body froze at the contents.

Phoenix Potion.

The item that had been auctioned off for 100 billion was emitting a radiant light.

The warp gate zone of the auction house where Tae-hyun had moved from the Alchemist Guild.

It was designed to allow movement to various locations around the world, but now, with the terror attack,

all but a few were closed.

The auction officials who were there had already met their deaths, and the Mabin led by Narendra Neru were acting as the central control room.

"Report."

Narendra Neru, who had belatedly crossed over through the gate, ordered.

"Currently, the item capture rate exceeds 50%. About 30% has been transferred."

"Slower than I thought."

The subordinate trembled at Narendra Neru's words.

He knew that his life could disappear in an instant if he made a mistake.

"That's... there's a report that an unidentified person is interfering. Maybe..."

"Is it that brat named Kim Tae-hyun?"

Narendra Neru asked in a chilling voice.

"B, but he won't be able to stop all of us by himself. The damage is still within expectations."

Narendra Neru revealed his rotten teeth at the subordinate's desperate report.

A sly smile hung on his lips.

He seemed to find the sight of the subordinate struggling to survive endearing.

Like a god feeling pleasure from watching his creation struggle.

"Good. Phoenix Potion. We must get that one at all costs. It's an item directly specified by the organization."

"Y, yes. I will contact them again now."

The subordinate adjusted the frequency of the earpiece to the Mabin in charge of the Phoenix Potion.

A-rank Mabin Dyke.

He thought that Dyke would have been able to carry out the mission sufficiently.

Chijijik.

"Dyke. Can you hear me, Dyke."

Chijik. Chijijik.

After a brief communication failure, the frequency stabilized.

The earpiece was connected to Dyke's.

"Did you secure the Phoenix Potion?"

The man hurriedly asked, hoping for an answer that would not offend Narendra Neru.

However.

"A, ah."

The voice that came through was not the Dyke's that he had expected.

"Hello?"

"......"

"Wh, who are you?"

The man asked back in a flustered voice, but...

"Are you Narendra Neru?"

Only unexpected words poured out from Dyke's earpiece.

"Daring..."

"Wait. Connect him to me."

"Y, yes."

At Narendra Neru's command, the subordinate manipulated the earpiece with trembling hands.

"A, ah. Narendra Neru?"

"I am Narendra Neru. How do you know me?"

"Never mind that. Where are you now? I'd like to talk to you face to face."

Narendra Neru revealed his rotten teeth and smiled sinisterly at the brazen voice coming through the earpiece.

"I am carrying out God's will. I have no time to associate with the likes of you."

"Oh, really? The item you're looking for. I think I have it. The Phoenix Potion, right?"

"......"

"How about I bring it to you?"

After a moment of silence.

"Keuk... keukeuk... keuhahaha!!"

Narendra Neru burst into mad laughter.

His eyes turned fierce.

"The brat doesn't know his place. He will receive God's judgment."

"Sorry. I'm an atheist."

At Tae-hyun's sneering voice.

"Daring..."

A jet-black magic power exploded from Narendra Neru's body.

Episode 37

About 10 minutes had passed since the conversation with Narendra Neru.

Taehyun, who had been hiding in one of the secret passages, was guarding the only entrance.

Since the space wasn't large, even if a group rushed in, they wouldn't be able to move freely.

He could use 'Knight King's Aura', but he decided to minimize mana consumption as much as possible.

The fatigue recovery potions and mana potions he had brought weren't infinite, so he had to be mindful of skill usage.

"But the effect is incredible."

The man of unknown nationality who died after being devoured, his entire body's bones crushed.

A-rank demon Dike.

Was it a whim of devouring?

Unlike usual, the body didn't disappear.

Taehyun, looking down at him, was sufficiently satisfied.

The ultra-rare item Phoenix Potion, made using an S-rank monster.

Now, 10 minutes after 'unintentionally' drinking that potion.

He could feel strength surging from his body.

Finally, his body had completely absorbed the power contained in the potion.

Ting.

[Stamina has increased by 20.]

[Mana has increased by 20.]

At the awaited message, Taehyun opened his status window.

Name: Kim Taehyun

Age: 19

Rank: B

Strength: 107 Stamina: 125 Speed: 103 Mana: 180 Charm: 30

Fatigue: 45%

Remaining Mana: 150/180

[Skills]

Devour (B) - Can devour a desired target. Mana consumption: 40

Stone Skin (B) - Can strengthen the body. Mana consumption: 30

Stealth (B) - Can conceal the body. Mana consumption: 25

Paralysis (B) - Restricts the target's body. Mana consumption: 20

Lord's Heart (B) - Increases the stats of party members. Mana consumption: 30

Knight King's Aura (B) - Overwhelms the opponent with aura. Mana consumption: 35

Chains of Entrapment (B) - Designates and restrains the target. Skill tracking and cancellation are possible. Mana consumption: 27

'The gains are beyond my imagination.'

It had already been a month since he became B-rank in the player's 3rd trial.

Since then, he had cleared numerous dungeons, but raising stats wasn't easy.

Those stats had increased by a total of 40 with just one Phoenix Potion.

It was natural for Taehyun's mouth to be grinning from ear to ear.

'And the Chains of Entrapment. This one has endless uses too.'

As players' levels increased, so did the rank and proficiency of the skills they used.

He had been thinking that he needed a variety of skills to compete against the ranked players appearing in the Asia Player Friendly Match.

He had to avoid the misfortune of having skills sealed by devouring just any skill as before.

This place was the best environment for Taehyun to flex his skills.

And now.

Taehyun was waiting for the one who would become the best lucky charm at this auction.

'Alright... if I just catch Narendra Neru and finish, it will be clean.'

The skill of the terrorist, infamous as he was, was 'Monster Summoning'.

In Taehyun's memory, monsters from E-rank to S-rank that he was known to have summoned flashed through his mind.

Since it was a heinous skill, the mana required for activation and maintenance would be enormous.

The demons were likely keeping Narendra Neru's skill as a last resort.

'I have to devour it before he uses the skill. But if the plan fails...'

Taehyun assumed the case where he was a top-tier being, classified as the pinnacle of S-rank.

'Then I have to run.'

If he couldn't devour the opponent, or if he couldn't create such an opportunity, there was no chance of winning.

He had already achieved the purpose of visiting this place to some extent.

It wouldn't matter even if he couldn't subdue Narendra Neru.

Taehyun had saved dozens of people from the terror.

Some of them had already contacted headquarters in their own ways.

'At most 1 hour. Just buying that much time will be enough.'

This was an auction connected to guilds from all over the world.

If they knew that a terror had occurred, they would open the gate and arrive here no matter what.

That's why Taehyun wasn't trying to unnecessarily draw aggro.

Until then, minimize casualties and devour skills.

A win-win, a two-birds-with-one-stone plan.

'Come on, you fanatical believer.'

Checking the gradually decreasing mana, Taehyun focused his senses to the maximum.

A moment later, he felt a large number of footsteps approaching the secret passage.

'They're coming.'

As expected, he wasn't alone.

Dozens of people entered the secret passage.

But.

'These guys...'

At the appearance of these unexpected people.

Taehyun had no choice but to hesitate to attack.

A woman in a suit checked the body.

The man who died with his entire body's bones crushed, A-rank demon Dike.

"He's dead. Judging by the remaining mana reaction, it's definitely a skill."

"The item?"

"It's gone."

Isaka Ryohei's expression crumpled at the woman's report.

"That's troublesome. Spread out and search for it."

At his command, the main escort force, including the woman, quickly dispersed.

"Tch. We were supposed to meet here. Annoying..."

Isaka Ryohei spat on the floor and muttered curses.

Suddenly, he stopped speaking.

And.

Gathering mana, he activated the skill 'Stealth'.

Swish.

His body disappeared as if blending into the surrounding environment.

At the same time.

He made eye contact with Taehyun, who was watching from the corner.

"What are you doing there, Player Kim Taehyun?"

There was sarcasm mixed in his voice.

Taehyun's body trembled at the unexpected situation.

'He saw through my stealth?'

Even though no harm had been done to his body while still using the skill.

Taehyun realized that Isaka Ryohei had accurately identified his location.

Swish.

Taehyun deactivated his stealth and put on an awkward expression.

"Oh, how did you know? My skill should have been perfect."

Like a child caught by the tagger.

It was an innocent smile.

'This bastard...'

A thin vein popped out on Isaka Ryohei's forehead.

Swish.

He also deactivated his stealth and revealed himself.

"As the chief of escort, I ask you one more time. Why are you here, Player Kim Taehyun?"

Isaka Ryohei's hand moved towards the Japanese sword at his waist.

It was an expression of his intention to cut him down without mercy if he didn't answer truthfully.

Taehyun also gripped the talisman in his hand and took a step towards him.

"Ah, it seems like things are getting interesting. I can't believe demons have invaded the Westpoint Auction. It wouldn't be good to catch their eye, would it?"

Isaka Ryohei raised the corner of his mouth at the glib answer.

"I see, I see. The auction is in chaos right now due to a sudden terror attack. This is exactly when an S-rank player should step up. For you, who just received a license, to act like this... it makes me wonder about the level of New Korea."

It was an obvious provocation.

And this time, Taehyun also had a reason.

"Haha... you're still as obnoxious as ever. I don't think those are words that should come from someone called an ogre."

Crack. Crackle.

Sparks flew around the area due to the killing intent that Taehyun and Isaka Ryohei were emitting.

It wasn't like before, where they were managing their aura; they were thinking of tearing each other apart with all their might.

"Disappointing. I was hoping to borrow the hand of a New Korean player."

"Didn't you not have the intention to stop it? Listening to your bullshit is making me uncomfortable."

Taehyun, having dropped the pretense, said coldly.

An insidious smile spread across Isaka Ryohei's face.

"Hahahaha. Not have the intention to stop it? If this mission fails, my image will be greatly damaged too, you know?"

"Tch."

Taehyun released his mana as he watched him make excuses until the end.

"More than that, haven't you seen an auction item around here? Something called the Phoenix Potion."

Isaka Ryohei asked, releasing his mana as well.

The two took a step towards each other.

"I don't know. It's been like this since I got here."

"That's strange. It's different from what I heard. I was told you would have it and be waiting."

In that instant.

Isaka Ryohei's Japanese sword at his waist was swung.

Clang!!

Taehyun's talisman, which he had been preparing, barely managed to block it.

"How much did you agree to receive from the demons?"

"Hehe. It's none of your business. Where did you smuggle the item to?"

Isaka Ryohei, having revealed his true colors, changed his expression to the one he was known as the ogre for.

"That's..."

Bang!!

Isaka Ryohei was pushed back by Taehyun's fist, which had used Stone Skin.

"Ask me after you defeat me."

"Kukuku."

Two S-rank players simultaneously.

Swish.

Swish.

Used the Stealth skill.

In a place where no one was visible except for those who had fallen.

Clang. Clang. Clang.

Taehyun's talisman and Isaka Ryohei's Japanese sword collided, making a gruesome sound.

Both of them were using stealth.

"To pull off stealth to this extent. You're quite something for a young one."

After saying that, Isaka Ryohei went behind Taehyun and slashed his back.

Kagak!!

There were no particular wounds due to the Stone Skin, but he could feel the mana used for defense being drained.

'This guy. I can't sense his presence. And he completely knows my location.'

Taehyun frowned, creating distance.

Unlike himself, who was continuing a precarious battle using his senses.

Isaka Ryohei accurately knew Taehyun's location.

Furthermore, he was gradually outpacing Taehyun even in speed.

'Is the difference in proficiency of our unique skills showing here?'

It was said that the rank of the skills he devoured would increase as he grew.

But proficiency was a matter of individual mana control.

There was bound to be a difference in proficiency between Isaka Ryohei, who had become an S-rank player with stealth as his main skill, and Taehyun, who used it as a support skill.

'And the proficiency of his second skill is no joke either.'

Isaka Ryohei's second skill, 'Sword Energy Emission'.

The sharpness felt as though he was using an A-rank skill on an item presumed to be unique, sharp enough to cut through iron.

If Taehyun hadn't strengthened his body with Stone Skin, he would have already been cut dozens of times.

But even so.

Taehyun could laugh.

Battles with the strong always bring growth.

And he had finished grasping Isaka Ryohei's skills.

'It's not to the point where I need to use Devour.'

Just then, Isaka Ryohei licked his lips as if looking at a delicious prey.

Just like Taehyun, he had finished understanding Taehyun.

"Knowing the difference in class, are you crazy, you brat?"

"Whatever. Let me ask you one thing. Why would a guy as strong as you team up with a demon?"

"Kuk... Kukuku. What a foolish question. Isn't it because I'm strong?"

"Tch. What a kid."

Isaka Ryohei, who was about the same age as himself in his previous life.

Taehyun spat out curses as he looked at him.

The talent to become an S-rank player.

He felt sorry for a guy who could only use it in this way.

"Hey, this isn't the time to be laughing like that. Don't think that all S-ranks are the same level."

Kaka Kakang.

Isaka Ryohei's Japanese sword once again grazed Taehyun's Stone Skin.

'Certainly. This guy is a mid-to-low tier S-rank.'

Taehyun, confident in his assessment, checked his remaining mana.

And.

Used the newly devoured power.

Ting.

[Using the skill Chains of Entrapment (B). Searching for the target. Target has been identified.]

In that instant.

Taehyun's eyes turned crimson as he used the skill.

It was a change that Taehyun wasn't aware of.

At the same time.

Dozens of chains, filled with crimson mana, rushed towards Isaka Ryohei.

"What?!!"

Isaka Ryohei's stealth was released as soon as the chains touched him.

He wore an expression of noticeable embarrassment.

"Hey, what about S-rank?"

Taehyun, who had flashed crimson eyes, ridiculed the entrapped prey.

Episode 38

Once the chains began to coil around him, they steadily increased in number.

Who could possibly bind an S-rank player so helplessly?

"Tricks!"

Incensed by the unimaginable situation, Isaka Ryohei shouted violently.

He strained the muscles in his arms, trying to break the chains.

Creak, creak.

Crack, crack.

He was suppressed to the point where he couldn't properly wield his katana, and 'Stealth' as well as 'Aura Emission' were canceled.

In his current state, it was just a meaningless struggle.

'As expected.'

Unlike the A-rank demon Dyke, who was the original owner of the skill, Taehyun's 'Chains of Binding' were even stronger.

The S-rank physical stats he had painstakingly built up.

The newly devoured skill inherited those stats as they were.

"Release me now! Do you know who I am?!"

Realizing he couldn't break free with his own strength, he shouted again.

The composure from before was gone, replaced by a cornered expression.

Taehyun approached silently and swung his fist, reinforced with 'Stone Skin'.

Thwack.

Episode 39

New Korea Player Association President's Office.

Ji Jin-hee was listening to a report with a serious expression.

Normally, he would have gone through Go Tae-wook to verify the reliability, but.

The informant was none other than Seo Sang-ik, the guild leader of Alchemist.

That was why Ji Jin-hee was listening attentively to his words.

"I just received the report that Narendra Nehru is among the terrorists... I never imagined that Tae-hyun would head there."

Ji Jin-hee groaned as if he had a headache.

It was a terrorist attack that occurred in a foreign country, not within New Korea.

If proper procedures were not followed, it could escalate into a diplomatic issue, so even the association president himself had limited authority.

Not only that.

Due to Westpoint's policy of keeping the auction house location a secret for security purposes.

It was taking a considerable amount of time to find the coordinates of the nearest warp gate.

"As the association president knows, Narendra Nehru is a mind comparable to an S-class high-ranking player. Player Kim Tae-hyun cannot handle him alone."

Ji Jin-hee nodded at Seo Sang-ik's confirmation.

Yoo Ah-young, the guild leader of Nightwalker and also an S-class player.

She had said something similar a little while ago.

The detailed measurements would have to be obtained through Michael Gore, a national-level player in the United States.

But one thing was certain.

'The Tae-hyun right now can't handle that opponent.'

Ji Jin-hee recalled Tae-hyun's past achievements.

Over the past month.

Dungeons that everyone had hesitated to attack, citing opportunity costs.

Tae-hyun was the one who cleared those abandoned dungeons alone.

Ji Jin-hee had designated Tae-hyun as a special protection target.

But that was based on a calculated thought that he had the potential to grow into a national-level asset.

On the other hand, Tae-hyun cleared the dungeons himself without anyone's request.

'He's a rare patriotic kid.'

A burning love for righteous talents.

Ji Jin-hee could confidently say that he cherished Tae-hyun even more than Go Tae-wook, who had first discovered him.

That was why he felt even more pathetic that he couldn't support him right away.

He even regretted not having established a hotline with Japan or China, knowing this would happen.

"Isn't the head of the escort for this auction Isaka Ryohei from Japan?"

"Yes. He is known to the outside world, but he is identified as a lower-middle class S-rank."

"An Oni... But even he would not be enough to stop Narendra Nehru."

"Association president. Are there any S-ranks that can be mobilized right now?"

Seo Sang-ik cut to the chase.

Although it was one of the four major guilds, Alchemist was a guild specializing in production and trade.

There were only two S-class players affiliated with it, including himself.

Even then, unlike Seo Sang-ik, who was not a combat type.

The other one was deep in the Abyss and could not even be contacted.

On the other hand, Ji Jin-hee had the authority to summon players, regardless of affiliation.

"As it happens, Chief Go is currently looking into available players. We have also sent official letters to Onsaemi-ro and Magicians, so we will receive a response soon."

Seo Sang-ik's face brightened at the faster-than-expected processing.

Go Tae-wook, the association's practical brain, had stepped in.

He would definitely bring back a satisfactory answer.

Speak of the devil.

Go Tae-wook entered with a knock.

"Welcome. I was just talking about you with Guild Leader Seo. How many personnel are available right now?"

"Player Park Sung-jin happens to be in Seoul. Magicians and Onsaemi-ro have also agreed to support a total of twenty people. We have prepared those who can open warp gates... We can move as soon as the coordinates come in."

Ji Jin-hee and Seo Sang-ik breathed a sigh of relief at Go Tae-wook's report.

Park Sung-jin, an upper-class S-rank player, would be more than enough to face Narendra Nehru.

Then another association employee opened the door and entered.

"Association president. We have just confirmed the approximate location of the auction house. The country is Japan, and their association will send the warp gate coordinates within 30 minutes."

Ji Jin-hee, Go Tae-wook, and Seo Sang-ik frowned at the word "30 minutes."

Even Japan, which was slow with paperwork, took 30 minutes in an emergency.

Retaliation due to their bad relationship.

That was the only way to think about it.

"Damn it. 30 minutes..."

"......"

"I hope... nothing happens in the meantime."

They were all consistently.

Worried about Tae-hyun's safety.

At that time.

Contrary to the hopes of those who were worried.

Tae-hyun was wandering around the building, eliminating the Minds one by one.

Most of them were B-rank Minds, who were more skilled than the average B-rank player.

But they were no match for Tae-hyun, an S-rank player.

Through the window, he could see two Acid Worms melting the building outside.

'Could it be that they haven't gotten the coordinates yet?'

The Westpoint auction house was famous for its location being secretly changed around the world.

Since the warp gate had also been occupied by the Minds, it was inevitable that it would take some time to find the nearest warp gate.

'Still, it's too late.'

Thud.

Tae-hyun once again slashed at the Mind in front of him and passed by.

He had already cut down a considerable number of Minds. It was safe to say that the main escort force had already been annihilated.

However, the Minds kept appearing, and since there were no skills to devour, Tae-hyun was starting to get bored.

Cheeeeee.

Another building melted down.

'Their methods are dirtier than I heard.'

Thanks to the auction house escort force being in collusion with them, a significant number of the auction items would have fallen into their hands.

Even so.

They were pointlessly summoning monsters and destroying things.

They were trying to show off their power.

It was an action that could not be understood with a sane mind.

'It's wrong to even try to understand the Minds.'

Tae-hyun, who had stopped thinking deeply, was thinking about how to deal with Narendra Nehru.

Before regression.

Narendra Nehru was rated as a top-tier S-rank.

'Of course, there's a high chance that he's not yet.'

He might not be as good as Tae-hyun, who was a growth-type Awakener.

But it wouldn't be strange for an S-rank player to have a way to overcome their limits.

Wearing expensive items like the Ring of the Wise or taking elixirs like the Phoenix Potion were prime examples.

That was why most of the S-rank players stayed in the Abyss.

A place that could overturn the common sense of Earth.

A place with infinite possibilities was the Abyss.

Tae-hyun checked his status window.

Seeing his accumulating fatigue and decreasing magic power, he sped up a little more.

'The fight has to be decided with devouring. Until then, I'll refrain from using skills as much as possible.'

Even though he had obtained the physical stats of an S-rank, there would still be a limit to that.

The power of the Predator needed to be used more carefully.

People and monsters. Living and dead.

As far as Tae-hyun had figured out.

There were no rules for the ability to devour skills and stats.

'There's no action as risky as misusing an unknown power.'

As he turned the corner, he saw a Mind roughly dragging a man who appeared to be an auction house employee.

Thud.

Tae-hyun immediately slashed the Mind's back.

It was so fast that he didn't even realize that he had been cut, just like the others.

Tae-hyun, who had deactivated his stealth, met the man's gaze, who showed signs of assault.

"Are you okay?"

"Keuheuh... Who are you...?"

"I'm Kim Tae-hyun, a player affiliated with New Korea."

"Kim... Tae-hyun...?"

As the name Kim Tae-hyun was translated through the earpiece, the European man's blue eyes shook.

"Could it be... the twelfth S-rank of New Korea?"

"Am I that famous?"

"Oh... God... thank you... I'm... Kevin Polant, the person in charge of the warp gate here."

The man, who thanked him several times, briefly introduced himself.

Kevin Polant.

He told him what was happening in the warp gate zone.

Tae-hyun's expression grew darker and darker as he listened.

The warp gate zone had already been occupied by the Minds.

In addition, they were taking hostage those who were hiding in various parts of the building in order to take a shot at negotiating with the government.

The majority, excluding the escort personnel, were non-combat personnel.

It was easier for the Minds than stepping on a piece of cake.

According to Kevin Polant, there were about two hundred hostages.

'If there are a lot of hostages, it's difficult to get help even if the rescue force arrives. How did this incident end quietly?'

In his previous life, Isaka Ryohei and Narendra Nehru had colluded to force the governments of various countries and large guilds to pay a large sum of money.

Tae-hyun had no way of knowing that far.

"Hey. How many Minds are gathered?"

"O, over fifty seemed to be there."

"Fifty people..."

It was a significant number.

It would be difficult if Narendra Nehru intervened while he was dealing with them, and it would be difficult if the remaining guys intervened while he was fighting Narendra Nehru.

'Ah, wait a minute. Come to think of it, if he's the person in charge of the warp gate...'

One plan came to Tae-hyun's mind.

While stealing the attention of the gathered Minds.

A clever move that could narrow the gap between Tae-hyun and Narendra Nehru.

"Mr. Kevin Polant. I need you to help me."

"Y-yes? Do you mean me...?"

"Yes. Don't you want to be a hero?"

Putting his hand on the shoulder of the bewildered German man.

Tae-hyun grinned.

"Isaka Ryohei. The report from that guy is late."

A thin man with a height of 2 meters.

Narendra Nehru, who resembled a Lich, said to his subordinate who was kneeling down.

"That's... I'm trying to contact him, but I can't get through. Could it be that he betrayed us...?"

"Heh heh. That's unlikely. He's not that kind of person."

Narendra Nehru recalled Isaka Ryohei, who was begging for his life.

The Oni, Isaka Ryohei.

He hadn't joined hands with the Minds from the beginning.

It was just that his life was more important than his honor.

Narendra Nehru smiled darkly, causing the Minds nearby to flinch.

"More than that, he wasn't defeated by that brat Kim Tae-hyun, was he?"

"...I'll go and check myself."

"We have to get the Phoenix Potion at all costs. If we don't get the item that the organization has designated, we won't be able to save face even if the operation succeeds."

"I understand."

Swish.

The man's figure quickly disappeared.

"Kim Tae-hyun... you're making it interesting."

Narendra Nehru smiled ominously and looked around.

Most of the auction items that he had been aiming for had already been smuggled out through the warp gate that he had seized.

All that was left was to get the Phoenix Potion that Tae-hyun had.

"Hehe... there are so many bugs still alive."

It was to put a price on the two hundred or so hostages and trade with the world government.

Dealing with one player from New Korea.

For him, it was just a pastime while waiting for negotiations.

That was why Narendra Nehru, who was holding the reins, was relaxed.

At that time.

An unexpected message appeared in front of Narendra Nehru.

[Skill usage detected.]

'Ho oh?'

To dare to use a skill on his monster in a situation like this.

He had to admit that his audacity was commendable.

Narendra Nehru's lips curled up, revealing his rotten teeth.

Currently, he was using the S-rank skill 'Contract with the Devil'.

When a summoned monster was attacked under contract.

It was possible to reverse-track attacks from those lower than him.

He had grown to the level of an upper-class S-rank player a few years ago.

There was no one stronger than him here.

But.

His smile didn't last long.

[An unknown power (???) is invading. Resisting with Contract with the Devil (S). Resistance failed. Summoned entities Acid Worm (1), Acid Worm (2) are exposed to attack.]

'......!!'

Before Narendra Nehru could even react.

Crack!! Crack!!

As if something was chewing them up.

Two Acid Worms were torn apart.

Episode 40

The Acid Worm isn't a particularly powerful monster for its size of 5 meters.

Yet, it's considered an A-rank monster because of the acidic liquid that irregularly spews from its body.

The Abyssal Swamp is a barren environment.

A body adapted to that place is like a virus itself.

Simply touching it inflicts considerable damage.

If it appears in a place crowded with buildings or people, the damage is immense. It's a difficult creature to attack for Awakened ones who primarily use close-quarters combat.

That's why Narendra Neru summoned the Acid Worm first.

If the opponent is a physical-type Awakened one, they have to approach the Acid Worm. If they are a magic-type Awakened one, they will be counter-traced the moment they activate a skill.

But now, with two Acid Worms dead.

Narendra Neru couldn't even grasp where the opponent was.

Rather.

crack

The sudden blackout turned the surroundings into darkness in an instant.

"What is this!"

"Check it out right now!"

Perhaps because they thought they had already seized victory.

The Mins were flustered by the unexpected situation.

It was an action that didn't live up to their reputation.

Only Narendra Neru began to laugh as if he found the situation amusing.

There are only two S-rank players in the auction house.

Ryōhei Isaka and Kim Taehyun.

It was obvious who the opponent was.

'He has an interesting skill.'

Until now, as an internationally notorious terrorist.

Has there ever been a case where he failed to counter-trace after his summoned monster was attacked?

The Acid Worm he was thinking of was a shield to block the opponent's approach and a measuring device to assess their capabilities.

In that respect, the opponent Kim Taehyun was enough to stimulate Narendra Neru's curiosity.

"He was a more interesting guy than I thought."

Taehyun being here meant that the Japanese S-rank player Ryōhei Isaka had been defeated.

The sinister smile soon turned into a burst of laughter.

"Reveal yourself. Unbeliever."

Narendra Neru activated his Ki sense.

He could feel something moving quickly in the dark, but it was difficult to pinpoint the location.

This also meant that Taehyun's skill proficiency was high.

"If you won't reveal yourself."

Narendra Neru reached out to the hostages.

The skill 'Contract with the Devil' was activated, and ten marked hostages began to wither.

They were being used as sacrifices for monster summoning.

"M-My body!"

"Kuaaack!"

"S-Save me!"

It didn't even take three seconds for the ten human sacrifices to turn into mummies.

[Great Worm (S) has been summoned. Mana consumption begins.]

[Saber Spider (S) has been summoned. Mana consumption begins.]

Narendra Neru bared his rotten teeth as he looked at the two newly summoned monsters.

"I'll use them all as sacrifices."

He reached out to the hostages once again.

At that moment.

Using stealth, Taehyun brushed past Narendra Neru.

shick

A piece of clothing was cut off by the swung talisman.

Because Narendra Neru lightly evaded it as if he had been waiting.

Just in time, a skill used by one of the Mins illuminated the darkness.

With the following detection skill, Taehyun's stealth was dispelled.

"There you were."

"Tch."

It was a surprise attack for nothing.

Taehyun adjusted his posture with a troubled expression.

Narendra Neru gave an order.

"Now. Apostles. It's time to carry out God's revelation."

Dozens of Mins and two S-rank monsters rushed at Taehyun.

[Skill Knight King's Aura (B) has been activated. Randomly designates an opponent.]

Taehyun, who jumped into the Mins, used Knight King's Aura, which could be called a wide-area skill.

The level of player exam applicants and Mins cannot be compared.

Besides, not many Mins were subdued because it was used hastily.

"Was that all? Your skill. Use it once more."

Narendra Neru laughed at Taehyun, who was struggling.

It was to draw out the skill that instantly killed the Acid Worm.

swoosh

Taehyun, who increased his speed, cut down another Min.

There was no need to respond to Narendra Neru's provocation.

He just kept cutting down the Mins rushing at him with only 'Stealth' and 'Stone Skin'.

At that moment, the magic power maintaining stealth was disturbed.

'Stealth is being dispelled.'

shshshsh

Taehyun frowned at his body, which was gradually revealing its form.

It was not surprising that there was someone among these many Mins who had a dispel skill.

Taehyun, whose form was completely revealed, suddenly threw himself.

The spot was showered with poison needles fired by the Saber Spider.

'At least mid-to-high S-rank.'

The movement that avoided the attack just now and the skill proficiency to summon two S-rank monsters at once.

He was a chilling guy whose reputation was thought to be underestimated.

'There's no chance of winning in a head-on fight.'

He could feel that even 'Stone Skin' was being forcibly dispelled, following 'Stealth'.

Without time to catch his breath.

Taehyun rolled on the floor, avoiding the acidic liquid of the Great Worm that was flying at him.

ding

[Skill Knight King's Aura (B) has been activated. Randomly designates an opponent.]

[Skill Chains of Entrapment (B) has been activated. Randomly designates an opponent.]

rumble

swish

The body of the Min who was chasing Taehyun staggered due to the two overlapping skills.

It pressed down as if the gravity had intensified, and chains of magic power roamed through the gaps.

It was the moment he thought he had bought some time.

When the Great Worm opened its mouth, the Chains of Entrapment were sucked in.

It ate it whole, along with the Min who was bound by the chains.

"Crazy. The worm eats people."

It wasn't just bigger than the Acid Worm.

The Great Worm's characteristic of eating skills.

Taehyun spat out swear words after confirming the characteristic he had only heard of with his own eyes.

"Kuhuhu. It's time to receive God's punishment."

A spider web woven in strands was spewed from the mouth of the Saber Spider.

The spider web that had only slightly brushed against him stretched out, wrapping around Taehyun's leg.

[Speed ​​decreases by 20. Movement is restricted.]

[Health decreases by 10. Movement is restricted.]

[Magic power decreases by 10. Movement is restricted.]

[Strength decreases by 10. Movement is restricted.]

The moment Taehyun tried to remove the spider web by swinging the talisman.

Narendra Neru's long hand, which had come close before he knew it, grabbed his neck.

"Kuk."

"I've grasped all of your movements. You weren't not using skills, you couldn't use them."

It was a piercing remark.

Taehyun struggled to escape from his hand.

"Tsk tsk."

Narendra Neru clicked his tongue as he watched the scene.

His physical stats were already lowered.

It was impossible to escape from his grasp at this level.

To make matters worse, even the Mins had surrounded Taehyun.

"Kid. Where is the Phoenix Potion?"

Narendra Neru asked, baring his rotten teeth.

His eyes flashed with madness.

"Get your smelly face away."

Narendra Neru chuckled at the meaningless resistance.

The match had already been decided.

Taehyun's life was, literally, in his grasp.

He showed composure.

"Hehe. Ryōhei Isaka. He was like that at first too. But it won't even take 5 minutes for him to open his mouth."

Ominous magic power soared from Narendra Neru's body.

A message appeared in front of Taehyun's eyes.

[Skill use detected. You have been caught in a Contract with the Devil (S). Resisting with mysterious power. Resistance successful.]

smirk

The corners of Taehyun's mouth went up.

On the other hand, Narendra Neru, whose skill was rejected, had an unbelievable expression.

The marking had failed.

Judging from the power he has now, it was something that could not be done unless he was an S-rank upper-level player.

'Could it be. Is this guy's skill stronger than 'Contract with the Devil'?'

'Contract with the Devil' was a skill considered to be at the very top even among S-ranks.

For such a skill to be defended by a mere multi-skill Awakened one?

'I can't believe it!!'

Disbelief soon turned into anger.

"How dare a mere heretic."

Just as Narendra Neru was about to tear off one of Taehyun's limbs.

woooong

One of the warp gates that had been inactive all along began to glow.

It was three times larger than the small gates around it.

It was a medium-sized warp gate that had not been paid attention to because there was no chance of it being activated.

At the same time.

shwook. shwook. shwoshwook. shoshwoshwook

"Uh, uh?"

"Hey, what's going on…."

"This is… Forced Warp?!!"

The Mins began to shout as they watched their companions disappear one by one.

Forced Warp.

An applied technique of the gate skill that allows the target to be forcibly moved according to the caster's intention.

It was a technique that could only be used with a gate skill of at least A-rank, a warp gate of medium size or larger, and administrator privileges for the gate in question. It was a technique that would only be used in times of disaster.

Next to the gate where the forced warp function was activated, a man was trembling with a stiff expression.

'Nice. Kevin Polant.'

Taehyun, who made eye contact with him, praised him enthusiastically.

Kevin Polant was the person in charge of the warp gate zone in the auction house.

It took 5 minutes for him to use the forced warp function.

Taehyun had been attracting the attention of Narendra Neru and the Mins, successfully enduring that time.

Just in time, the feeling of pressure that had been oppressing Taehyun disappeared as if the Min with the dispel skill had been forcibly warped.

There was no need to hesitate any longer.

[Skill Knight King's Aura (B) has been activated. Designates the target.]

[Skill Chains of Entrapment (B) has been activated. Designates the target.]

[Skill Stealth (B) has been activated.]

[Skill Stone Skin (B) has been activated.]

Simultaneous use of 4 skills.

A considerable amount of magic power was drained along with dizziness.

thwack

Taehyun kicked Narendra Neru and escaped from his grasp.

"What should I do about this. I think the atmosphere has changed."

Taehyun sneered, looking at the Mins, whose numbers had been reduced by about twenty.

"Kuk… kekekek… khahahaha!!!"

Who would have known that he would resist in this way?

Narendra Neru burst into maniacal laughter at the unexpected situation.

It was loud enough to echo through the gate zone.

"My mind has changed. You seem like you would be the best sacrifice to offer to God."

Unlike Narendra Neru, who still hasn't grasped his location.

The Great Worm and Saber Spider, aiming for Taehyun, were approaching quickly.

Because their sense of smell and hearing were extremely developed, they ignored Taehyun's stealth skill.

But.

"You said you were curious about my real skill earlier, right?"

A dark red magic power rose from Taehyun's body.

At the same time.

rip

Something made of dark red magic power.

A huge maw was opened.

crunch. crunch

It was instantaneous.

The S-rank monsters, Saber Spider and Great Worm, began to scream.

Kevin Polant couldn't believe what was happening before his eyes, even after seeing it directly.

He was also an A-rank Awakened one.

That's why he gave up everything when the warp gate zone was occupied.

The instinct for survival took precedence over the responsibility of being an administrator, and he ran away with all his might.

The opponents were a large number of Mins with high-ranking Awakened ones mixed in, and the infamous Narendra Neru.

Anyone would have no choice but to act that way in front of them.

When he heard Taehyun's plan.

It was in a similar vein that he shouted that it was crazy.

Enduring alone against these guys for 5 minutes?

It was clearly a suicidal act.

He definitely thought so.

As a result.

The man named Kim Taehyun fought against them single-handedly and bought the time for him to activate the forced warp.

He endured for 5 minutes against dozens of Mins and the monsters that Narendra Neru commanded.

'But this is not enough.'

What can be forcibly warped through the medium gate is only those with low skill resistance.

In other words, only A-rank or lower, or physical Mins with low magic resistance.

Of course, Narendra Neru was not included in that.

There were only about ten Mins left.

All of them were named ones called high-ranking Mins.

"Tear that bastard to death!!"

"Catch him!!"

'Haha… is this the end. A hero or what….'

His body, hardened with killing intent, did not move.

It was the moment when Kevin Polant gave up everything and tried to accept death.

"Kieeeeeek!!!"

"Kkyaaaaaaaa!!!"

A chilling scream echoed through the gate zone.

The scream of an S-rank monster whose entire body was being torn apart.

The overwhelming sight caused everyone's attention to be directed to one man.

There, Taehyun, whose eyes had turned red, was wearing the expression of a predator.

"All of you. Don't even think about dying peacefully?"

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