RKP 361-370

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361

[Blanc….]

[This can't be happening….]

[What power is that….]

[This dragon will handle it.]

Agni, who had been occupying one of the five barriers, stepped into the barrier.

No one stopped Agni.

Because it was so shocking.

Subduing the head of the clan so quickly?

By a human, no less.

[Unbelievable.]

Agni muttered, fixing his red eyes on Taehyun.

[Human. What is your name?]

"Kim Taehyun."

[……!!]

It wasn't just Agni who was surprised.

Kim Taehyun.

The contractor of Grand Duke Rosaria, the one causing a stir in the Abyss, was right in front of them.

Only then did the situation become clear.

[I see… you're that damn key.]

Agni, who had been emitting a fiery aura, immediately entered the evolution stage.

Before Taehyun's eyes was a fire dragon, with flames blazing on each red scale.

[This dragon is different from Blanc. I won't be careless.]

"You should have been from the start."

Tring.

[Skill 'Blood Frenzy' (SSS) has been activated.]

Along with the message that a great power had awakened, his stats soared.

Magic power was rapidly being replenished from Blanc's restrained body.

In Taehyun's eyes, parts of Agni's body, transformed into a fire dragon, looked red.

Even though he had used his trump card.

It meant that Taehyun could devour him.

A red orb was forming in Agni's mouth.

A crimson wish-fulfilling pearl.

The magic power felt from it dwarfed even a breath attack.

But it was a technique he had already broken once in the fight against Gallien.

Tring.

[Skill 'Energy Compose' (SSS) has been activated. Identifying the form.]

Although the color was different from Agni's.

A black wish-fulfilling pearl, emitting black magic, was created, absorbing Blanc's magic power.

[With that imitation….]

He didn't expect that he would even create a wish-fulfilling pearl.

Agni growled.

"Sometimes imitation surpasses the original."

With those words, Taehyun reinforced 'Chains of Binding' once again.

The moment the giant chain seemed to transform into a tentacle.

Thud.

It pierced through Regiel's body, who was watching from afar.

[Ack… Master…?]

Regiel looked incredulous.

"I'll borrow some magic power."

Tring.

[Skill 'Energy Compose' (SSS) has been strengthened. Magic power consumption is accelerated.]

Next to the black wish-fulfilling pearl that Taehyun had created.

Crackle. Crackle.

A cyan wish-fulfilling pearl, containing the energy of lightning, was created.

"It's going to sting. Fire Chicken."

Wish-fulfilling pearls.

They were another form of breath, created with pure magic power from the Dragon Heart when a pure-blooded dragon achieved evolution, said to be the next stage.

Its power was incomparable to a regular breath, and even a leader-level dragon couldn't use it often due to its overwhelming power.

It was also the reason why the relatively small number of dragons could reign as the strongest race.

The red wish-fulfilling pearl created by Agni and the black and cyan wish-fulfilling pearls created by Taehyun were poised to collide at any moment.

Agni quickly gathered energy to create the next wish-fulfilling pearl.

He didn't think that his wish-fulfilling pearl would be pushed back by Taehyun's fake one.

But just in case.

[I won't be careless like Blanc.]

He was different from that foolish black dragon who was being shamefully drained of magic power over there.

But that was a delusion.

"How naive."

Tring.

[Unique Skill 'Devour' (SSS) has been activated. Specifying the target.]

Riiip.

Just before the three wish-fulfilling pearls collided.

Crunch!!

The suddenly created jaws of Devour swallowed the red wish-fulfilling pearl.

[……!!]

In the midst of the unexpected situation, all the watching leaders faltered.

Whoooosh.

Crackle.

Black and cyan.

Two wish-fulfilling pearls aimed at Agni.

[You!!]

At the same time, Agni spat out the wish-fulfilling pearl he hadn't finished.

Tremble.

The fight between the incomplete wish-fulfilling pearl and the deficient wish-fulfilling pearl.

Victory was Taehyun's.

Boom.

The cyan wish-fulfilling pearl that survived to the end pierced the fire dragon's abdomen.

[Kiyaaaa……!!]

Agni raised his magic power along with his unsightly appearance.

Flames soared from the hole.

As if trying to regenerate the wound like a phoenix.

'Interesting fellows.'

Taehyun nodded, understanding the characteristics of the seven clans.

But from the moment he allowed the attack of the wish-fulfilling pearl, the outcome was decided.

Unlike Agni, who was focused on recovery.

Taehyun's next attacks began to concentrate.

Swish. Swish.

'Chains of Binding' wrapped around Agni's massive body, who was losing his wings and falling.

Under the red sky, the sight of the leaders of the three clans wrapped in chains looked truly plausible.

"Agni. You'll have to keep your promise."

Thud.

Taehyun stabbed the demon claw towards the location of Agni's Dragon Heart.

And.

Tring.

[Skill 'Ruler of Desire' (SSS) has been strengthened.]

[Skill 'Great Demon's Heart' (SSS) has been strengthened.]

[Additional effect 'Corruption' is manifested.]

The two skills created a synergy effect, and an unexpected ability was activated.

Agni's red scales were covered with deep cyan magic power.

Whoooosh.

The moment Agni's massive body, whose evolution was undone, was engulfed in red flames.

Agni's red eyes, who had polymorphed into a human form without being able to maintain his true form, were dyed deep cyan.

[Master…… you…… human…….]

'Is it impossible to dominate immediately?'

It seemed that the effect was diminished as it was being applied to others simultaneously.

"Let's do the education later."

With those words, Taehyun turned around.

The leaders who were maintaining the barrier.

Garland, the leader of the Green Clan.

Halligan, the leader of the White Clan.

Blond, the leader of the Gold Clan.

Silphid, the leader of the Silver Clan.

They, who had already finished their evolution state, were surrounding Taehyun.

It was natural that the barrier was lifted.

"Have you abandoned your pride now?"

[Kim Taehyun.]

[If we had known that you were the key to the king sooner…….]

[We were the ones who underestimated you.]

[Nothing changes.]

The four leaders each created their own wish-fulfilling pearls.

"Now it's the real game."

Tring.

[Skill 'Energy Drain' (SSS) has been strengthened. Magic power consumption is accelerated.]

[Skill 'Energy Compose' (SSS) has been strengthened. Magic power consumption is accelerated.]

Black, cyan, and red.

Taehyun created three wish-fulfilling pearls to face them.

Followed by.

Riiip. Riiip.

As if guarding Taehyun's body, the jaws of Devour appeared everywhere.

It was enough presence to replace the deficient wish-fulfilling pearls.

"You'll have to squeeze out every last drop of magic power."

Hehe.

Taehyun smiled bitterly.

That appearance was no different from the Doppelganger in the mental world.

The battle lasted longer than expected.

Unlike the Blanc and Agni battles, where he overwhelmed them in one-on-one situations.

It was difficult to aim for a decisive opportunity due to the continuous barrage of coordinated attacks from the four leaders.

'Is this what it's like even with three batteries?'

He intended to use Regiel as a battery from the start.

Even though it was a battle that was resolved more easily than expected.

The potential of the leaders was beyond what he thought.

If he had started this without knowing the current stage through Gallien?

If Bordeaux hadn't lost a significant amount of power to Asmodeus?

Even though they were past days.

Just thinking about it made him shudder.

Clang. Bang. Clang.

Wish-fulfilling pearls collided endlessly under the red sky.

How many wish-fulfilling pearls had already been created and destroyed?

Unlike Taehyun, who was drawing magic power from the three leaders and accumulating fatigue.

The four dragons, who were squeezing out magic power from their Dragon Hearts to use their techniques, were showing signs of exhaustion.

The sign that the balance of the battle was tilting was magic.

The dragons, who had been spitting out wish-fulfilling pearls, began to mix in magic.

Dragons can use most magic.

But using that power is extremely rare.

Most opponents are dealt with through aura, and those who are not dealt with through aura are dealt with through the breath of the main body.

Simple but.

It was a pattern in which many races were destroyed in the face of that strength.

There was no way they could make up for the balance of power that they were barely maintaining with wish-fulfilling pearls with magic.

Starting with Silphid's two wings being torn by Devour, Halligan, Blond, and Garland successively allowed the attacks of the wish-fulfilling pearls.

Around that time, the three leaders who were captured by Taehyun were on the verge of death from the shock of being continuously drained of massive magic power.

But Taehyun didn't care and simply strengthened his skills once again.

Tring.

[Skill 'Apocalypse' (SSS) has been strengthened.]

[Skill 'Chains of Binding' (SSS) has been strengthened.]

[Skill 'Ruler of Desire' (SSS) has been strengthened.]

Under the red sky.

The seven leaders screamed.

"Submit."

Taehyun, who was holding the chains that wrapped around them, commanded.

And belatedly discovered.

"……!!"

Regiel, who was trembling while wrapped in chains just like the other leaders.

[Master…… I…… why…….]

To Regiel's appearance, as if saying that it was unfair.

"……Guilt by association."

Taehyun said, trying to maintain a solemn expression.

[Bullshit…….]

[Kill him…….]

[That insect…….]

Some leaders could not accept defeat and refused the skill.

Even though they had achieved the spell with their lives on the line.

It was because his skill proficiency was insufficient to fully implement it on the six leaders.

"Don't worry. There's plenty of time."

He had already succeeded in binding them.

Taehyun's magic power was sufficient, while the leaders, who had used most of their power for evolution, were in such bad condition that they could not even regenerate.

Taehyun threw a potion to Regiel.

"Regiel, monitor the rest of the guys."

[Understood….]

Regiel, who was released from the chains, answered while hurriedly pouring the potion into his mouth.

"Well then."

Taehyun approached Blanc, whom he had subdued first.

Tring.

[Skill 'Ataraxia' (SSS) has been activated. Specifying the target.]

"It's customized education time."

[Skill proficiency of 'Ataraxia' (SSS) has increased.]

[Skill proficiency of 'Great Demon's Heart' (SSS) has increased.]

Taehyun smiled at the rising message.

[More than Lord Hazard…….]

Demon.

Regiel, who couldn't even utter the last word, groaned.

Both physically and mentally.

It was no longer easy for Regiel to even make eye contact with Taehyun.

Excluding the Blue Clan.

It took only a week to summon the elders of the six clans one by one to Bordeaux's territory and make them submit.

However, it took a day to fight the six leaders.

It took about six days to completely brainwash them.

It took about a day for each leader.

That was because their existence was more than what Taehyun had thought, and the resistance was not easy, so he had to continue the battle even in the mental world.

Thanks to that, Taehyun's stats and skill proficiency had also increased considerably when he completely subdued them.

[Congratulations. Draconia is now your Lordship's.]

Regiel said, not hiding his emotional feelings.

So far, Hazard was the only dragon among the seven clans who had completely dominated Draconia.

But Taehyun, who was not even a dragon, had once again subjugated the leaders.

It meant that the long history was broken.

"Yeah."

Taehyun said, breathing out.

He had been holding on with potions and scrolls.

But his appearance was not good after the past week's overexertion.

It was a forced march where a backlash would not have been strange if it had continued for another day or two.

[What will you do with the leaders?]

"Send them all back to rest."

[Understood.]

Just as Bordeaux assisted Hazard.

Regiel's red eyes, who assisted Taehyun, were filled with awe.

'Is it two weeks left now?'

Taehyun recalled the promises he had made with Jormungandr and Igmun.

He used a week for the elders and a week for the leaders.

It meant that he had used more time for the leaders than expected.

Taehyun had also grown as much as the guys' resistance was fierce.

'This is not enough.'

Jormungandr and Igmun will use any means to win the bet.

So Taehyun needed to be prepared accordingly.

'I have already prepared nine to be with me.'

From now on.

It was time to grow Taehyun's skills to the next Grand Duke level.

362

Sarah Collins.

The world's first SS-rank Awakener and America's SS-rank player.

She hadn't been in a good mood lately.

Cody Cruz, the man who was America's top power and also her mentor.

It was because he hadn't shown his face for a long time.

She knew that it was difficult to meet a top-ranking player who was on a secret mission.

But knowing that Cody Cruz was missing in action.

She couldn't wait with peace of mind.

'Damn it, Mentor.'

She, who had continued to grow, had become the second-ranked player in America.

She followed right behind Cody Cruz.

People praised her as a genius surpassing Ricky Hollis.

But the more they did, the deeper her worries became.

Because she knew.

That she still had a long way to go.

People said that she was showing monstrous growth because she was aiming for Cody Cruz.

But that wasn't true.

No, to be exact, her goal had changed.

"Kim Tae-hyun."

The man who had virtually 'allowed' her to have an SS-rank license.

The world's best player, likely to be granted the first SSS-rank license.

She recalled the face of that arrogant Asian.

'Can I reach him now?'

Now that she was incomparably stronger than when she took the license test.

Could she wipe the smile off his face?

'I want to check.'

Before that, she wanted to be recognized by her mentor, Cody Cruz.

She stopped walking when she reached her destination.

"Chairman. It's player Sarah Collins."

"Come in."

Kevin Lee, with a grim expression, greeted her as she entered the chairman's office.

His white hair had increased so much that he looked 20 years older than his age.

China's pressure, the continuous terrorism of the remaining Harsultan forces, and a new competitor called Shin Han-guk.

'And even my mentor's disappearance.'

It was a situation where it was fortunate that he hadn't gone crazy.

"You killed a Harsultan executive?"

"Yes."

"You've worked hard."

"Thank you."

That was the end of the pleasantries.

"I called you because I have an urgent task for you."

"......?"

"Cody's trace has been found a little while ago."

"......!!"

Where it was.

She barely managed to hold back from shouting.

Kevin Lee, reading her thoughts, took a deep breath.

"The location is Shanghai, China."

The deepest part of the Abyss. A hidden area.

Once the territory of the Great Demon Gorfeur, but now a place that has lost its master.

A new being sat on the throne prepared for Gorfeur.

A Great Demon of the same level as Gorfeur and the highest subordinate of Beelzebub.

It was the Great Demon Gilfer, who ruled another hidden area.

Stroking her long nails, she listened to the report.

[Gorfeur served a human as a new master?]

[Y, yes. I saw it clearly with my own eyes. Gorfeur-nim called him master....]

The giant demon trembled before her, who didn't even reach his waist, and confessed the battle he had seen.

He was also a being worthy of being called the highest species.

But Gilfer, who was born as a Great Demon, was different in existence from the mass-produced beings.

[At first, they had a fierce battle, and immediately after, he dragged him here and called him master.]

The mass-produced highest species demon, Vulcano, nodded.

Saying that he was not lying.

Saying that it was not his fault that countless of the highest species were eaten by the human who appeared by opening the gate, and that Gorfeur had disappeared.

That's what he was saying.

But Gilfer was not interested in the innocence that the demon in front of her wanted to tell.

Just.

[It can't be a human.]

That unknown entity that devoured Gorfeur.

No, she was only curious about where the existence she could guess had gone.

[How many troops are left?]

Gilfer asked about Gorfeur's legacy.

[W, well, before the human appeared, there were thousands....]

Now there were less than a thousand left.

That many people were eaten by that human.

Vulcano poured out a report that he thought it wouldn't be strange if his neck was cut off.

[I see. I heard his mind was unstable. He couldn't even complete the mission until the end. That's enough. Leave.]

Gilfer ordered in a monotone voice.

[A, I understand!!]

Lest her mind change.

Vulcano hurriedly retreated.

[Gorfeur. In the end, you met a foolish end.]

Gilfer muttered to herself, left alone.

A deep cyan magic power rose from her body.

It was the same as Gorfeur's, but it was a much more refined power.

The ancient Great Demons, Gorfeur and Gilfer.

In the distant past.

They were beings whose existence had been erased by the King.

Gorfeur refused to be forgotten by using his authority, and Gilfer did not refuse and was forgotten.

In the process, she had to abandon her authority, but she had no regrets.

Thanks to that, she was able to fully watch the truth of the world that even the Archduke did not remember.

If she wanted, she could aim for the Archduke beyond the Great Demon.

Even so, being under Beelzebub was to survive to the end.

[The key that the King chose.]

Kim Tae-hyun.

The human who was chosen by the King just before being killed by the Great Demon Asmodeus.

She knew that he was the one who brought Gorfeur to annihilation.

Even so, Gilfer didn't feel any anger.

Gilfer of no desire.

It was the nickname that Beelzebub gave her while looking at her current self.

She didn't like it.

But ridiculously, there was nothing that explained her as well as that nickname.

[A key that came to use the power of the Great Demon. But that power alone cannot completely shackle the Archduke.]

She muttered to herself.

Gorfeur was weaker than in ancient times.

If she had taken that authority, it would have been only half of it.

It was when she thought so.

[......]

Right in front of her.

The empty space shook.

Crack.

A huge gate opened that even a Great Demon could come and go through.

A group of humans appeared from there.

No, there was only one that could be called a human.

The rest were the highest species of monsters taking human form.

Unlike the monster Vulcano that she had sent out a little while ago, each of them had an unusual existence, a race called the direct descendants or purebloods of the Archduke.

[What is it.]

Gilfer asked quietly.

Tae-hyun stepped forward towards her.

"There was an illegal intruder here too."

With a confident attitude as if it were originally his.

The young men with seven different hair colors lowered their heads.

[A pureblood dragon race that follows humans. What are you?]

Gilfer asked again.

"The owner of this place."

[......]

"Is that side the new Great Demon?"

[......]

Gilfer's lips went up at Tae-hyun's question.

[I see.]

Red eyes that had been casually scanning Tae-hyun blinked.

[You are the key.]

"As expected, a Great Demon."

Tae-hyun also said, not avoiding her gaze.

[You brought the elders of the dragon race to take this place?]

"It's completely different from Gorfeur."

Tae-hyun tilted his head.

Unlike Gorfeur, whose mind was unstable.

The Gilfer in front of him seemed very calm.

But the presence that was felt was not small either.

If Gorfeur was the type to emit rampant magic power.

Gilfer was compressing and storing that power within her body.

'It was a good thing to bring these guys.'

Tae-hyun thought of the elders of the seven tribes who were revealing their presence from behind, not avoiding Gilfer's red eyes.

The elders who would set up a guard so that other monsters could not interfere while Tae-hyun settled with the Great Demon.

Phyllis of the Red Tribe.

Gemma of the Green Tribe.

Satiel of the Blue Tribe.

Delkan of the Black Tribe.

Yulan of the White Tribe.

Stad of the Gold Tribe.

Yom of the Silver Tribe.

In terms of power, they did not reach the leaders.

But each of them had the power to be called the highest subordinate of the Archduke.

'The gap between the leader class and the elder class is large.'

The fact that Rezhiel, who had just become the leader, could occupy the lowest seat among the seven leaders was also possible because he had transcended the elder class.

But that also meant that the elder class had endless potential for growth in the future.

Tae-hyun was thinking of properly raising these seven dragon races.

The battle in this hidden area would be the first breath with them.

"I wish you'd get out of my house."

[I refuse.]

At Gilfer's answer, the seven elders emitted intimidation.

A deep cyan magic power rose from Gilfer's body.

None of the seven elders' intimidation.

Could not penetrate Gilfer's magic power.

[Cute guys.]

It was not ridicule.

Gilfer really thought so.

It was when Satiel, who was irritated, was about to shout something.

"How about this."

Tae-hyun opened his magic power.

Deep within the crimson magic power, all kinds of colors of magic power were embedded.

Just a little while ago.

The seven elders, who had experienced it through Tae-hyun, trembled without realizing it.

On the other hand, Gilfer was still calm.

She knew that the crimson magic power was the King's, and that the various colors of magic power eaten by that power were the Archduke's.

Even so.

[I want to test it.]

She didn't deny the feeling she felt for the first time in a long time, and she put the feeling like a spark out of her mouth.

Tae-hyun's lips went up.

As if wanting what he wanted, he was full of confidence.

What human could show this kind of appearance against a Great Demon?

"I'm the one who tests."

Tring.

[Skill Knight King's Intimidation (SSS) has been activated. Specifies the target.]

Kugugugung.

"Shall we go lightly for now."

[Intimidation. Not a bad choice.]

Gilfer casually swiped her nails.

Pissit.

'Knight King's Intimidation' was simply released, and blood splattered from Tae-hyun's face.

Tring.

[Skill Highest Species' Eyes (SSS) has been activated.]

Pissit.

Tae-hyun turned his body again.

Gilfer's nails narrowly passed by.

Just by that, his cheeks were scratched and blood splattered.

'It's not an authority.'

He thought so while avoiding Gilfer's nails, which were being aimed at in succession.

It was just a simple swing.

Even so, it was a speed that could only be caught up with by using the highest species' eyes to maximize eyesight and Ki-sense.

'If Gorfeur's mind was intact, would it be this level?'

Once again.

He could see how lucky he was at the time.

[Contractor. Know that it was fortunate that Gorfeur's mind was not intact. If that guy could use all of the ancient power, he would surely be on par with the Archduke class whose power was suppressed.]

It was what Rozaria had told Tae-hyun before.

And the Gilfer in front of him was showing a figure that made those words feel real.

The dragon race's intimidation has the power to suppress the lower species.

But already, following 'Knight King's Intimidation', 'Monarch's Intimidation' was simply cancelled.

With just one gesture from Gilfer.

What about 'Apocalypse'?

It was when Tae-hyun was thinking so while dodging the nails she was swinging.

Pissit.

The white shirt he was wearing was cut off and the dragon scale armor was revealed.

[A weapon made of dragon scales. Did you dominate it with power?]

That was closer to a monologue than a question.

Susususus.

The torn shirt contained Tae-hyun's magic power and returned to its original form.

[A strange ability.]

Tring.

[Skill Great Demon's Heart (SSS) has been activated.]

[Skill Demonization (SSS) has been activated. Specifies the imitation area.]

[Skill Demon's Saliva (SSS) has been activated.]

[Additional effect Regeneration has manifested.]

Purple magic power overflowed from Tae-hyun's body, which had been emitting the dragon race's intimidation until just now.

It was the power symbolizing Beelzebub, who was at the apex of the demon race.

Above all, the three horns and tail that sprouted on his forehead.

A pair of wings.

It was Gorfeur's appearance.

"Is this figure familiar?"

Chiik. Chiik.

Tae-hyun asked, raising his nails filled with venomous magic power.

[......]

That power.

Did not seem to be inferior to Gilfer's nails at all.

363

Gilfer scanned Taehyun as if savoring his appearance.

His form was no different from the Golfer he remembered.

Not just the appearance.

The Demon King's magic stone nestled beside his heart.

The purple and deep blue magic emanating from it was undoubtedly the power symbolizing poison and desire.

Even the Dragon race, known for their Polymorph expertise, couldn't imitate it to this extent.

[A human imitating a Demon King.]

If I hadn't seen it myself, I would have dismissed it as absurd.

Even that abnormal human, Beelzebub's contractor, was at best a demon race exceeding the higher ranks.

Imitating the highest ranks was all he could manage.

[I have many questions about Demon Kings.]

Taehyun raised his thorn-like claws, speaking in the language of the demons.

A body and weapon unique to the demon race, with which he had torn apart countless limbs.

Is it because of the 'Demon King's Heart'?

Unlike when he disguised his entire body with 'Beast Transformation.'

Like the changed appearance, his language had also become that of demons.

[Such a morbid taste.]

Gilfer responded in her usual monotonous tone.

Tting.

[Skill 'Dominator of Desire' (SSS) has been activated. Target identified.]

Hwaaaak.

Deep blue magic emanating from Taehyun's body surrounded Gilfer.

[Let me make you a proposition.]

His red eyes gleaming.

He proposed a winner-takes-all deal.

Gilfer looked at the powers of Golfer wrapping around her body.

She flicked her fingers as if there was nothing to consider.

[I refuse.]

Hwaaaak!!

With just that, the deep blue magic dispersed from her body.

The skill had been thwarted.

'Was the condition I offered too weak?'

He tilted his head, watching the dispersing deep blue magic.

'Dominator of Desire' was originally a divine power.

But since being registered in the status window, there were restrictions related to the skill.

'If the opponent's level is high, the skill is canceled.'

Offering a higher stake or proposing a lower condition to the opponent to increase the skill's success rate is merely a sorcerous characteristic.

The one condition he offered Gilfer was.

'To submit to the victor of the battle.'

Now that he had grown stronger after fighting the dragon race leaders, he thought it would be enough to work.

But it seemed to be too much for the Demon King before him.

[Well, you might think differently once we intertwine.]

With that said, Taehyun raised his index finger.

Tting.

[Skill 'Demonization' (SSS) has been enhanced. Magic consumption is accelerated.]

He enhanced the skill to increase his understanding of Golfer's body.

Ssuk.

His elongated claws aimed for Gilfer's neck.

Kkaang!!

She casually deflected the sudden attack.

Taehyun relentlessly repeated the extension and retraction of his claws.

Even though it was an attack no different from striking at light speed.

Gilfer stood still, simply deflecting with her claws.

Kkaang. Kkaang. Kkaang.

After several attacks.

Taehyun's eyes narrowed as he continued his assault.

Tting.

[Skill 'Eyes of the Highest Race' (SSS) has been enhanced.]

Ttsuzzzut.

He could see the purple magic gathered on her slender claws.

The deadly magic infused in Taehyun's attacks was not working.

'Of course, she's a member of Beelzebub's family.'

It wasn't that he had overlooked it.

He just wanted to test it.

Tting.

[Proficiency of skill 'Demonization' (SSS) has increased.]

[Proficiency of skill 'Demon's Saliva' (SSS) has increased.]

Leaving behind the expected messages, he once again surrounded his claws with magic.

Whether it was stats or proficiency, anything that could be raised in this battle.

'I'll draw it all up.'

Kkang. Kkang. Kkang.

A tedious back-and-forth continued several times.

Suddenly.

Kkaang!!

Unlike before, Gilfer strongly struck away his claws.

Chiiiiiiik.

A toxicity not inferior to Taehyun's flowed from her claws.

[It's astonishing to wield the powers of an Archduke and a Demon King in a body that mimics a demon race. But considering you are the key, I am disappointed.]

[That sounds like you're going easy on me.]

[Do you think otherwise?]

It happened in an instant.

Sssseuseuseut.

The moment Gilfer's body seemed to blur.

Pook!!

[……!!]

Deadly claws were embedded in Taehyun's shoulder.

'She aimed for the eyes.'

If the 'Eyes of the Highest Race' hadn't caught it until the end.

If he hadn't instinctively twisted his body, his eyes would have been pierced.

As he pulled his body back, Gilfer followed.

Even though Taehyun was clearly larger, it felt as if a giant was looking down.

She lightly dodged the claws he swung to create distance.

And.

Softly and quickly.

She drew her hand.

Puhwak.

Tuk.

'Crazy.'

Taehyun suppressed a groan, looking at his severed right arm.

Gilfer had easily done what he had been aiming for but couldn't achieve.

She looked at the blood on her claws, having stopped her attack.

She could sense the remnants of various magic in the blood.

She licked the blood as if savoring it.

Taehyun used the opportunity to create distance.

He didn't use 'Blood Frenzy'.

Nevertheless.

Kwaddeudeudeu.

His body slowly began to repair itself, thanks to the 'Regeneration' manifested as a secondary effect.

[I'm feeling nostalgic. It's not enough, but it seems sufficient to remind me of a sibling fight.]

With those words, deep blue magic rose from her body.

[……!!]

Taehyun's red eyes trembled for a moment.

Gilfer raised her hand.

Ssueuuk.

Her index finger gradually lengthened.

The form of a thorn, slow yet solid, like a tree growing.

[Will you try?]

Despite the obvious provocation.

"There's no reason not to."

He didn't hesitate for a moment.

Competing with a Demon King was not an opportunity that came easily.

'I will defeat you and grow once more.'

Taehyun raised his hand in response.

He enhanced 'Demonization' and 'Demon King's Heart', and coated the enhanced 'Demon's Saliva' on the thorn.

Tang!!

With a sound like a gunshot.

He stepped back from the recoil.

The moment his thorn, which could be described as a strike of desperation, collided with Gilfer's.

Ppak!!

Taehyun's thorn shattered as easily as if it were worthless.

[……!!]

It was when he was about to twist his body to evade.

[It seems the Demon King imitation is over.]

Puhwaak.

Purple and deep blue magic exploded from Gilfer's body.

The thorn that had broken Taehyun's claws and lengthened.

Pook.

It pierced straight into the magic stone.

[Keuk….]

Tting.

[Skill 'Demonization' (SSS) has been canceled.]

Sssseuseuseu.

Spitting blood.

Taehyun reverted to his original form.

He quickly retreated, stepping back.

Gilfer remained in the same spot, not following.

Ulk.

Due to the forced movement, the reversed blood was vomited.

The shock of the magic stone being destroyed was greater than the skill being canceled.

It seemed that using the 'Demon King's Heart' would be difficult for the time being.

"Keup…."

Taehyun spat out discolored saliva, exhaling.

Thanks to the forced confrontation, his proficiency had increased.

But the price he paid was losing the 'Demon King's Heart', which was painful.

"Why did you stop attacking?"

He asked, taking out a potion from his belt.

If she had gone all out from the beginning, Taehyun would be fiercely engaging with other skills by now.

Nevertheless, she was waiting until he had the chance to drink the potion.

'Arrogance… it's different from that.'

It felt like fighting an emotionless machine.

[Are you still unskilled at handling desire?]

"……."

[That power is certainly attractive. But it's a power that can devour its owner. You should know that if you've seen Golfer?]

"Why are you telling me that?"

Aren't we enemies?

But why is the enemy telling me about the weaknesses of a weapon they haven't fully mastered?

He had fought countless monsters so far, but this situation was a first.

[I wonder. I guess I, too, was unskilled at abandoning desire.]

"……."

It's an incomprehensible sound.

Taehyun silently circulated the magic within his body.

It was his inherent crimson magic.

Tting.

[Skill 'Apostle of Darkness' (SSS) has been activated. Specifying the form.]

He coated the massive scythe in his hand once more with demon saliva.

[Will you test that as well?]

With those words, Gilfer surged in.

Kkaang!!

The scythe made with 'Apostle of Darkness' shattered as easily as if it were worthless.

Even with 'Demon Saliva' coating it.

It couldn't withstand the claws Gilfer used.

'This one… seems stronger than Golfer.'

That was enough.

Taehyun realized that using half-hearted skills against her would only consume magic.

As if in return for making him aware of that fact.

Pook.

Keugeugeugeuk.

The claws that tore through Taehyun's suit and pierced in, struck the dragon scale armor.

Kkaang!!

In the end, it couldn't penetrate the dragon scale armor.

But the body that was flung back from the recoil rolled on the ground.

It was throbbing, but it was a bearable impact.

He drew the Dragon Slayer Sword from his belt.

A magic sword imbued with Bordeaux's power that couldn't be compared to the claws used in the demon race disguise or the sword made with Apostle of Darkness.

He infused magic into the sword.

Pajjeujeujeujeuk.

The feeling of the senses sharpening throughout his body due to the emitted lightning.

A message popped up that his physical stats had increased as the 'Root of Origin' activated.

As if this time was the real thing.

Taehyun coated the risen lightning with demon saliva.

Just like Asmodeus did.

Dragon race and demon race.

'Mix the two magics together.'

Lightning and poison.

That unlikely power quietly permeated the Dragon Slayer Sword.

The hand holding the Dragon Slayer Sword trembled due to the concentrated power.

'I lack strength.'

At this rate, he wouldn't be able to swing the sword a few times and would drop it.

Tting.

[Skill 'Beast Transformation' (SSS) has been activated. Specifying the transformation area.]

Following the activation, he immediately enhanced the skill.

He had taken the form of the highest race of beast after the Demon King.

The trembling hand stopped at the Dragon Slayer Sword's wail.

"This is the main game."

The beast race holding the sword surged towards Gilfer.

And.

Seogeok.

He sliced off the Demon King's claws that were blocking the way.

[…….]

Gilfer's red eyes trembled slightly.

Taehyun didn't miss that moment.

"It's too early to be surprised."

When fighting Golfer, the fact that he used skills one by one was the cause of his defeat.

Gilfer was on par with Golfer.

Or a Demon King hiding even greater power.

From now on, there was no need to waste any more skills.

'I'll go all out.'

'Blood Frenzy', 'Apocalypse', 'Dragon's Wrath'.

Taehyun added the skills he had been hiding one by one.

All five of Gilfer's claws that clashed with the Dragon Slayer Sword were instantly cut off.

Gilfer, still expressionless, retreated.

The strengthened 'Chains of Binding' blocked her escape route.

Kkwak.

As if throwing a javelin.

He threw the Dragon Slayer Sword as it was.

Sswaeaek!!

Kkaang!!!

Gilfer's body bounced back after striking away the Dragon Slayer Sword.

Taehyun's massive body was shot out like a tank.

Shin Korean Ancient Martial Arts Fifth Form: Goryeo.

Kwajik!!

Before she could even block, Taehyun's knee was embedded in Gilfer's abdomen.

She had lost her tempo due to Taehyun's close combat, which was suddenly going berserk.

The moment Gilfer faltered and fell to the ground.

Taehyun's clasped fists struck down like a hammer.

Kkwang!!

Gilfer's feet were buried in the ground.

Kkwang!! Kkwang!! Kkwang!!

How many times had he struck?

Jjeok. Jjeojeok. Jjeojeojeok.

The ground she was standing on began to crumble.

Even though Golfer's castle was made to be as solid as possible.

It was because it hadn't been assumed to have battles like this.

Gilfer's body fell one level below.

The moment Taehyun followed behind.

Pook.

Gilfer's claws, which had opened her wings, were embedded in Taehyun's chest.

That was just the beginning.

Puhpuhpuhpuhpook.

Five additional thorns, which he didn't know when she had regenerated, were additionally embedded.

Taehyun firmly gripped two of those thorns.

"I've got you."

Tting.

[Unique skill 'Devouring' (SSS) has been activated. Target specified.]

Episode 364

Crunch!! Crunch!!

Gilfer's slender arm was chewed by the jaws of Predation.

Gilfer, visible through the "Eyes of the Highest".

For some reason, the Great Demon's flesh cannot be fully consumed.

Therefore, Predation was used with the intention of weakening her power.

However.

Ding.

[The progress rate of the quest 'Territory War' has increased. Progress rate: 18%]

[The progress rate of the quest 'Race War' has increased. Progress rate: 3%]

The quest progress rate increased unexpectedly.

Not only Territory War, but also Race War, which hardly ever changed.

This didn't happen when absorbing Gorfer's power.

'This one... is different.'

Different from the monsters encountered so far.

Although she's not using her true authority, she's hiding more than Gorfer did.

Taehyun instantly saw through this fact.

Before those thoughts could even be organized.

Crunch, crunch, crunch.

Gilfer's arm, consumed by Taehyun, regenerated at an extremely high speed.

Even with the ultra-fast regeneration, her mana didn't decrease at all.

More than anything, her arms, which Taehyun was sure he could consume just moments ago, were now listed as impossible to consume.

It was clear that she had used some trick that Taehyun didn't know about.

Taehyun and Gilfer, who had landed on the floor below, looked at each other.

The monsters on the lower floor screamed and surrounded the two.

The number of those mixed with High-Rank and Highest-Rank monsters seemed to exceed thirty.

Just as Taehyun was about to use Aura.

[My lord.]

The Seven Elders all fell behind Taehyun at once.

They had been holding their breath and watching before following.

They scanned the monsters surrounding them.

[We'll take care of them.]

Without anyone leading the way, the Seven Elders emitted their Aura.

Even in their polymorphed state, they were still the best force the Dragon race had to offer.

[Kiyaaak!!]

[Kahak!!]

The High-Rank monsters couldn't shake off the Aura and either knelt or lost consciousness, while those considered Highest-Rank raised their fighting spirit and revealed their murderous intent.

A mass-produced Highest-Rank could never beat the pure-blooded Elders of the Dragon race.

Just when even the Highest-Rank monsters began to be suppressed one by one.

Whoosh.

Gilfer waved her hand.

With just that, the Aura of the Seven Dragons scattered.

[If you want to interfere in this one's battle, you'll have to risk your lives.]

Gilfer said as if warning them.

[You...]

[That Demon race...]

Contrary to their words, they knew through the battle with Taehyun that she was a Great Demon.

If they fought in their polymorphed state, they would be torn apart in an instant.

The Elders growled and gathered their mana to transform into their true forms.

"Stop."

Taehyun spoke with magic power in his voice.

At that force, the Seven Elders flinched and suppressed their fighting spirit.

"If you recklessly jump in, you'll be annihilated."

Taehyun said, fixing his gaze on Gilfer.

It wasn't an empty threat.

The 'Predation' that Taehyun used now was incomparably more fatal than before.

The fact that it couldn't completely devour her meant.

'Even if they transform into their true forms, they'll be defeated in an instant.'

He couldn't afford to lose the guys he had brought here to raise in a place like this.

While swallowing their pride, the Seven Elders bowed their heads and stepped back.

"I thought all the Demon race were crazy bastards."

Taehyun said, recalling Venom, Beelzebub, and Gorfer.

They were all gloomy and didn't think like humans.

But Gilfer only had the magic power of a Great Demon within her.

She was more rational than anyone Taehyun had ever faced.

No, it was a dispassionate dryness beyond reason.

[Do you want to know?]

Gilfer, raising a bluish-black magic power, flicked her finger.

The logic of power.

It meant to defeat her and find out.

"How kind of you."

Ding.

[The skill Apocalypse (SSS) has been enhanced. Reconfiguring the territory.]

Hwaaaah.

Once again, the area was dyed in Taehyun's territory.

Was that all?

Ding.

[The skill Energy Drain (SSS) has been activated. Targeting the target.]

Swish. Swish.

Chains that appeared from all over the territory began to surround the monsters in the area.

With screams, their magic power was rapidly recovered.

Taehyun wasn't satisfied with that.

The chains also entangled the Seven Elders who had retreated.

It was natural for them to be startled.

[Lo, Lord...]

[Why even us...]

Satiel and Delkan instinctively resisted and spat out.

They knew what would happen the moment they touched Taehyun's chains.

"Let's borrow it for a bit."

It wasn't a request.

A moment later.

Sharp chains were embedded in the chests of the Seven Dragons.

With groans, all sorts of magic power rose from the Elders' bodies.

Ding.

[The Origin Element (SSS) has been activated. The power of attributes dwells within.]

The magic power, excluding the Black Dragon and Silver Dragon, resonated with the power of the Giant race and raised the stats.

Gilfer silently watched the scene.

[It's similar to Igmun's power, but different. Is it the power of the key?]

Tzzz.

Taehyun struck a pose without answering.

If the power of Predation didn't work right now.

He just had to create an opportunity by hitting her a few more times.

He reached out his hand.

As if a giant magnetic field was acting.

Swaeek.

Thwack.

The Dragonslayer Sword, which had been embedded somewhere on the upper floor, was gripped in Taehyun's hand.

Thump. Thump. Thump. Thump.

In that darkened place, the giant Taehyun walked towards Gilfer.

Clang. Clang. Clang.

Gilfer's nails and Taehyun's Dragonslayer Sword clashed countless times.

Suddenly.

Quad-d-d-d.

A long tail grew from Gilfer's waist.

Three powers that symbolized the Great Demon: Magic Stone, Horns, Tail.

She had unlocked one of them.

Kkaaang!!

The Dragonslayer Sword was bounced away by the suddenly increased magic power.

Taehyun didn't care and rushed into the Great Demon's arms.

Shinhanguk Ancient Martial Arts, Form 1: Taebaek.

Crunch!!

Gilfer's arm was twisted grotesquely by the overwhelming force that was hard to even remember its original form.

Chinese Ancient Martial Arts, Form 1: Fajing.

Kwaang!!

A giant fist sent Gilfer's body flying.

Form 2: Cunjing.

Kwaang!!

Form 3: Cheokgyeong.

Kwaang!!

Form 4: Seon Gyeong.

Kwaang!!

Form 5: Penetrating Power.

Bang!!

Form 6: Divine Transformation Power.

Kwwaaaaang!!!

[Cough...]

Gilfer scattered blood and was thrown into the air.

It was difficult to withstand Taehyun's increasingly powerful attacks head-on.

Kududuk. Kuduk.

Following the tail, she spread her wings.

Her magic power greatly increased once again, and her body rose into the air.

However.

Ding.

[The skill Knight King's Aura (SSS) has been activated.]

[The skill Monarch's Aura (SSS) has been activated.]

[The skill Dragon's Wrath (SSS) has been activated.]

"Come down."

At Taehyun's will.

Kugugung.

[......!!]

A massive force pressed down on her.

Thump.

The moment Gilfer helplessly stepped on the ground.

Shinhanguk Ancient Martial Arts, Form 7: Pyungwon.

Quad-d-d-d.

Ji Jinhee's technique, reborn from Taehyun's body, struck Gilfer.

Ding.

[The skill Dragon's Wrath (SSS) has been enhanced. Mana consumption is accelerated.]

Krrr!!

He covered Hazard's power with the Aura of the Seven Races.

[......!!]

Gilfer, who had been staggering.

Thud.

Finally, she knelt.

Ding.

[The unique skill Predation (SSS) has been activated. Identifying the form.]

Creak. Creak. Creak, creak.

As if not allowing escape.

The jaws of Predation surrounded Taehyun and Gilfer.

In Taehyun's red eyes, he could see Gilfer's body, which was starting to waver in magic power.

Magic Stone. Wings. Tail.

Even though she hadn't opened her horns yet, he could see a huge power pouring out from the three places.

She was squeezing out magic power to recover her body.

[Amazing.]

Gilfer said that and raised her body.

Unlike her shabby appearance.

Her dispassionate dryness was no different from before.

"Aren't you going to take out your horns?"

Taehyun asked, watching her recovery.

Taehyun was also buying time to use the next skill.

[Didn't you already win?]

Gilfer declared Taehyun's victory.

"......"

[The power of the king. No, seeing you use the power of the Archduke to this extent... it seems that being chosen as the key was no accident.]

A human had become similar to a Great Demon.

Gilfer said that and praised Taehyun's victory.

It was an appearance that an ordinary monster could not show.

Taehyun's eyes narrowed.

"Why aren't you doing it properly?"

[What do you mean?]

"Don't treat me like an idiot."

If she was doing it properly, she would have taken out her horns from the beginning.

Knowing that he was the key, why wasn't she coveting him?

He put into words what had been a constant question.

[I was curious.]

"......?"

[About the power of the king that the lord fears.]

"...You don't think of Beelzebub as the real owner."

He recalled Gorfer's appearance, who had tried to become an Archduke through the Doppelganger.

[Is there anything wrong with that? Isn't it natural for the strong to put the stronger under their feet?]

"That means..."

[I abandoned the authority, but I didn't give up on becoming an Archduke.]

Unlike Gorfer, whom he felt he had to get rid of no matter what.

He liked her appearance of quietly sharpening a knife while looking for an opportunity.

"How coincidental. I have the same thought."

The corners of Gilfer's mouth, which had been expressionless all along, twitched.

[What you faced a moment ago was a Great Demon who abandoned his authority. Only about a degraded Archduke. With the level of barely beating that one, you won't even be able to look at an Archduke.]

"Let's make a bet. If I defeat you with all your power, how about you become mine?"

[Your tongue is long. You're still saying boring things.]

"If fun is the driving force."

Kugugung.

The Aura pressing down on the area became stronger.

He approached Gilfer, who wasn't thinking of resisting.

Kwwaaaa.

A purplish-red magic power rose from Taehyun's body.

"How about this."

Ding.

[The skill Ataraxia (SSS) has been activated. Targeting the target.]

[The skill Memorize (SSS) has been activated. Identifying the memory.]

Not the Doppelganger's, but the imagined world created by Taehyun.

An incomplete personal space.

What he showed there was the future he would draw.

Territory War.

Making a summon pact with the Archdukes through the path the king walked.

Race War.

Ending the war with the Upper Realm that even the king couldn't do.

The Celestial Race and the Monsters. Humans.

The Upper Realm and the Abyss, Earth.

Countless possibilities that could occur in a new dimension.

They were all mixed together to create new possibilities.

Ding.

[The skill Ataraxia (SSS) is canceled.]

[The skill Memorize (SSS) is canceled.]

"Haa... Haa..."

Taehyun gasped and grabbed his throbbing head.

Using personal space to show the future he was thinking of was an act that consumed a lot of fatigue.

Even so, there was no doubt that the skill was successful.

He was able to use Rosaria's power to a higher level.

"Are you a little more interested now?"

Taehyun asked, chuckling.

[......]

Looking at her wavering red eyes, he could be sure that she was tempted.

There would be no struggle as clearly imprinted on the DNA of a monster as the Race War.

[It's a war that even the Underworld King couldn't finish. Even that is a future that he didn't succeed in ending. You can do all of that?]

"I can't be sure. But one thing is clear."

[......?]

"You can't win the Race War with just one or two more Archdukes."

[…With the power that can't even handle a mere Great Demon… isn't your ambition too much?]

"Why don't you try it out?"

Ding.

[The skill Ruler of Desire (SSS) has been activated. Targeting the target.]

Taehyun once again raised a bluish-black magic power.

"Let's add one more to my life. I'll add the power of Desire."

[......]

"All you have to bet is... to serve me as a new owner. It's not a bad condition."

She had already watched many things in the imagined world.

Her consideration wasn't long.

[Okay.]

Three horns sprouted from Gilfer's forehead.

With just that, her magic power soared explosively.

'It's going to be tough with just my strength...'

The Dragon race who were watching also had the same thought.

They shouted that they would help and asked him to release them from these chains.

Taehyun ignored their words, drank a potion, and tore a scroll.

Ding.

[The cooldown of the skill Great Demon's Heart (SSS) has been released.]

[The skill Energy Drain (SSS) has been enhanced.]

[The skill Energy Compose (SSS) has been activated. Identifying the form.]

[The skill Energy Compose (SSS) has been enhanced.]

'Shall we try it?'

Taehyun sucked up the mana of the Seven Elders to the limit.

The fruit that the clan chief-level Dragon race can only obtain by achieving the stage of evolution.

The Magic Orb.

Kwwaaaa. Kwwaa. Kwwaaaaa.

The seven Magic Orbs, created with the characteristics of the clan, floated up.

It was less powerful than what the clan chiefs had created.

But it seemed to be enough to face a Great Demon.

"Gilfer. Are you ready to serve a new master?"

[Your greed is too much.]

Gilfer raised her poisonous claws.

Contrary to her words.

There was life in her red eyes.

Episode 365

Lee Jung-jae was dreaming, and a ghastly presence appeared in his vision.

Red eyes, split like a fly's.

Wings resembling a bat's, but moving unnaturally for their immense size.

A serpentine tail and grotesque horns.

A sinister mouth.

Anyone who saw this bizarre being would immediately think of the word 'demon'.

Above all, the violet magic coiling around its massive form, and the nature touching its skin...

Sizzle. Crackle.

It was decaying.

As if an incurable disease was manifesting.

A disaster.

The Gray Plague, which had been compared to a natural disaster.

Compared to what he was seeing now, it would be nothing more than a drop in the ocean, Lee Jung-jae was sure.

'I wish I could wake up from this damned dream soon.'

Just as he thought that, the disaster's red eyes stared at Lee Jung-jae.

A smirk.

A sound like scraping metal escaped from its upturned lips.

[Do you think this is a dream?]

'……!!'

If he had a physical body instead of just his consciousness here...

If he could make a sound, he would have screamed.

Whether he was the highly esteemed SS-rank player or the leader of the Taesan Guild...

Before the disaster in front of him, he felt less than an insect.

It didn't matter that he understood the language of the demon.

'How can a dream be this vivid…'

If it's a dream, I want to wake up immediately.

No, it's definitely a dream, so I will definitely wake up.

Because I am sleeping in a hotel in Beijing guarded by 200 high-ranking members of the Taesan Guild.

Just as he thought that once more...

[Does this humble one not have the right to ask questions, insect?]

The disaster-like being opened its mouth again.

'Who… are you…'

To the question that seemed to read his mind, Lee Jung-jae considered a polite reply.

That alone was an answer.

The opponent seemed to possess godlike power in this unidentified space.

[Tsk. The insect has taken up residence in something even more inferior than before.]

'Watch your mouth!!'

Lee Jung-jae reacted instinctively to the insult.

He had never been called an insect in his life.

Even Lee Jung-soo, who had abused him, had never called him that.

[…….]

The disaster before him paused for a moment.

And then, suddenly...

Lee Jung-jae's consciousness darkened as if about to fly away.

Before he knew it, the demon's red eyes were staring down at him from right in front.

[Preposterous.]

The demon flicked a venomous finger.

Poke. Poke.

"Kuh…!!"

Lee Jung-jae screamed in terrible pain.

It clearly shouldn't have a physical form...

'Why is there such pain…!!'

Lee Jung-jae looked down at his body.

'……!!'

There was his flesh, naked and trained with solid muscles.

And the demon's claws were piercing that flesh.

[An insect that can't even recognize a mental world. How desperate must I have been?]

Poke. Poke.

It was a very light touch.

Nevertheless, from Lee Jung-jae's perspective, it was as if his heart was being carved out.

"S-stop…. Please… stop…."

Lee Jung-jae knelt down and wailed.

Just by giving his body a few times...

He had completely lost his will to fight.

He felt like an insect himself.

He felt an unbridgeable gap in power.

[Heh… kekek….]

The demon finally burst into laughter at the pathetic sight.

[You can't even awaken your consciousness after all this? My contractor is showing such a pathetic appearance….]

A sinister aura emanated from the demon.

Tremble. Tremble. Tremble.

In the face of fear beyond comprehension...

Drip.

Lee Jung-jae's legs became wet.

He shouted for help several times.

Meanwhile, the demon did not stop scanning Lee Jung-jae's body.

It was definitely recognizing how ugly his contractor had survived.

It was also recognizing that he could only exert such a weak power that he couldn't even fully maintain his consciousness in the mental world.

[Tsk tsk tsk.]

The demon, Beelzebub, clicked his tongue.

If the contractor died, there would be risks for him as well.

In any case...

This insect had accepted some of his magic.

It was a body that could withstand the laws of the Abyss.

That alone was of immeasurable value.

[Open your eyes, insect.]

"Th-thank y–…"

Poke.

Beelzebub plunged his claws into Lee Jung-jae's heart.

"Cough… ack…."

Foam of blood bubbled from Lee Jung-jae's mouth.

Whoosh.

At the same time, violet magic rose from his miserable, naked body.

Beelzebub was forcibly injecting his magic.

"Kua… cough… kaaa…!!"

Lee Jung-jae screamed.

As if not caring about such an appearance, Beelzebub continued to say what he had to say.

[Seek me out. I will make you the king of insects. But before that….]

After a while...

Lee Jung-jae's consciousness was cut off.

"Uwaaa…!!"

Lee Jung-jae woke up with a start.

The demon, which had been flashing its red eyes in front of him until just now, was nowhere to be seen.

A familiar scenery was visible.

It was the bedroom he had been sleeping in.

It was the VIP room of a large hotel in Beijing that the Taesan Guild was guarding.

"Haa… haa…."

Lee Jung-jae breathed heavily.

His whole body was drenched in sweat.

Tremble. Tremble. Tremble.

The dream from just now flashed vividly, and his body trembled.

'What kind of… damn dream is that…'

Lee Jung-jae raised his trembling body from the bed.

Staggering, he took steps toward where the mirror was.

Sizzle. Crackle.

Wherever he walked, the floor began to melt.

His magic was going out of control again.

He grabbed a water bottle on the shelf.

Sizzzzzz.

"Damn it!!"

As the water bottle he was about to drink melted, he threw it away.

His figure was visible in the large glass hanging on the wall.

He looked gaunt.

The skin exposed between the gowns was dyed purple as if it was rotting away in places.

Kasim Zolt's magic, which he thought he would get used to soon, was eating away at his body as time passed.

If this continued, he would be completely consumed and become no different from a demon.

'Damn it…'

Just then.

Ding.

[Your Awakening Rank has been readjusted.]

[Your Skill Ranks have been readjusted.]

[Skill - Beelzebub's Thought (SSS) has been registered.]

[Strength has increased by 100.]

[Stamina has increased by 100.]

[Speed has increased by 100.]

[Magic has increased by 100.]

'What…?'

Lee Jung-jae instinctively opened his status window at the unexpected message.

"This… can't be…."

He unconsciously muttered at the content of the status window, which had changed drastically in a short time.

His overall stats had risen incredibly, and his rank had changed to SSS.

Was that all?

His skills, 'Heart of Flame' and 'Heart of Monarch'.

Kasim Zolt's skills, 'Devil Gate', 'Dystopia', and 'Demonization'.

In addition, a skill called 'Beelzebub's Thought' had been newly registered.

The name Beelzebub in Kasim Zolt's skill Demonization and the newly created skill name.

"……!!"

One thought flashed through his mind.

"Ha… haha…."

Lee Jung-jae burst into laughter.

He realized.

That he had been chosen by an ancient demon.

That he had gained the power of that disaster he had seen in his dream.

Kekekekek.

Lee Jung-jae laughed and shook his body.

It was as if he was a great demon himself.

Just as that pleasure reached its peak...

Poke.

"……!!"

A silver sword protruded from his chest.

"Cough…."

Lee Jung-jae twisted his body and turned his head.

There was a face that shouldn't be there.

"Cody… Cruz…?"

"……."

Swoosh.

Cody Cruz silently pulled out the sword that had been stuck in him.

Gush.

Lee Jung-jae spat out blood.

The color of the blood was neither red nor black.

It was purple.

Chiiii.

Poison rose from his pierced body.

His body was quickly restored.

It was a power he didn't have before.

Before he could even realize the changes that had occurred in his body...

"What are you doing…. Why are you… here…"

Lee Jung-jae asked, spitting out the words.

"……."

Cody Cruz, who had been silently watching Lee Jung-jae's recovery, swung his sword again.

This time it was an attack aimed at the neck.

Splatter.

Blood splattered.

It was because his uvula was cut off even though he had avoided the attack by a hair's breadth.

Originally, that alone would have been a fatal wound.

Swish.

Purple magic instantly healed the wound.

It was as if he was watching the Saintess's 'Ultra-Fast Regeneration'.

"You…."

Lee Jung-jae growled, touching his neck.

Even if the opponent was the former world ranker,

There was no reason to tolerate such a surprise attack.

"I'll kill you."

Lee Jung-jae used his skill 'Heart of Flame'.

Whoosh.

Heat soared from his body engulfed in flames.

When he grabbed the sword he had put next to the bed, the flames moved to the sword.

Cody Cruz, who was silently watching the scene,

Swish.

Quietly swung his sword.

Rapid stat increase.

Change in Awakener rank.

All these things happened suddenly.

But the more Lee Jung-jae moved, the faster his body adapted to the new power.

Was it because the opponent was the world's 2nd ranked player?

Every time the swords clashed, he felt like he was growing.

On the one hand, he could newly realize how huge the gap between him and Cody Cruz was.

Swish.

Cody Cruz's sword cut off one of Lee Jung-jae's arms.

"Did your association president order you to do this?"

Cody Cruz continued the attack silently.

Swish.

Again, one arm was cut off.

Fortunately, the other arm had finished regenerating in the meantime.

"You…. Come to Taesan Guild. I'll give you everything."

Lee Jung-jae said, creating distance.

Just that made him feel the pleasure of a strong person showing generosity to another strong person.

Cody Cruz continued the attack silently.

"Too bad."

Ding.

[Skill Demonization (SSS) has been activated.]

[Skill Dystopia (SSS) has been activated.]

The huge bedroom was dyed in a purple swamp.

"Did you still think you were the strongest in the world?"

Purple skin.

Sharply grown nails.

Venomous magic.

An incomplete demonkin.

Lee Jung-jae, who had transformed into the form of a higher species of demon, cackled.

"You must have gone crazy after being pushed out by Kim Tae-hyun."

"……."

"It's better this way. It's right to break a sword that can't be used."

With those words, Lee Jung-jae swung his sharp claws.

"Kaha…!!"

Lee Jung-jae, whose Demonization had been undone, collapsed spitting out blood.

His red eyes shook violently.

This can't be happening.

No, it shouldn't be happening.

He was the chosen one.

Not Kim Tae-hyun.

He can't kneel before a guy 'like that' who was pushed out by him.

But reality was cold.

As if it were the Grim Reaper's scythe.

Cody Cruz's sword was raised high.

'I can't die like this…!!'

Contrary to Lee Jung-jae's wishes.

The sword came down from above.

Swish.

Thud.

Lee Jung-jae's body, strengthened by countless experiments and training, collapsed powerlessly.

Thump, thump, thump.

The head separated from the body rolled on the floor.

"……."

Without saying a word.

Cody Cruz was looking down at such Lee Jung-jae, at the corpse divided into two, the body and the head.

Suddenly.

Ssssssss.

The purple magic flowing from the cut surfaces of the head and body was connected like a string.

Thump, thump, thump.

As if a spring was winding up.

The head, which had stopped moving, began to roll in the opposite direction.

Thud.

After rolling for a long time, the neck stuck to the torso.

Click. Clack.

As if fitting the head of a figurine that had been pulled out.

Both hands moved his head around.

Lee Jung-jae, who had aligned the direction of his head, raised his body.

There were only scars left.

It was a perfect suture.

Lee Jung-jae, who had opened his red eyes, opened his mouth.

[Long time no see, Cody Cruz. Or should I call you, Lucifer's hound?]

"……."

At Kasim Zolt's words.

Cody Cruz quietly raised his sword.

366화

Kwahhh!

Purple magic erupted from Lee Jung-jae's body.

A magic akin to poison.

Even so.

Crack. Crrrck.

The wounds that hadn't fully healed were recovering cleanly as if blessed by God.

[Thanks to you, I've regained control of my body.]

Kasim Jort touched his body here and there, revealing his teeth.

Not the old man's body he used to use.

But the body of a vibrant young man that can still be consumed.

Even though he hadn't fully taken over, he was emitting better quality magic than his previous body, which was at its end.

[He must have been in a hurry.]

Kasim Jort burst into laughter.

Because he knew that Beelzebub had forcibly awakened Lee Jung-jae's body.

Originally, it would have taken almost a year to completely take over the body.

Until then, he was planning to quietly hide in Lee Jung-jae's body and build a new force.

[The end has been brought forward.]

He was chuckling to himself when he suddenly tilted his head.

[Strange. Why is there no answer?]

"......"

[......]

Magic swirled in Kasim Jort's red eyes.

Cody Cruz's body was visible inside with the enhanced eye power.

They've been chasing and being chased for a long time.

He had killed himself several times, and he had also pushed him to the brink of death several times.

That's why he could tell.

The man in front of him now was not the Cody Cruz he knew.

[Oh my~ What happened!!]

Kasim Jort asked loudly.

He didn't deny that he was surprised, unlike himself.

The player who was called the strongest in the world.

Just like himself, whom he despised so much, was he being taken over by the power of the Archduke?

If he wasn't surprised.

If he wasn't laughing.

That would be strange.

Puhahaha.

He wasn't worried that someone would hear his laughter and come in.

Because there was no sign of people in the area already.

This must also be Cody Cruz's doing.

[The stronger the tree, the greater the fall.]

He couldn't even grasp the flow of magic in Cody Cruz's body.

But one thing was certain.

[He's lost his voice.]

"......"

[Isn't Lucifer's power regeneration? There's no way you can't do super-fast regeneration even with the power of the highest species. Then.... The one who made you like that must also be using the power of regeneration.]

The obvious speculation pointed to one thing.

Kkkkkkkk.

He couldn't hold back his laughter and now his back was bent.

[Could it be Lucifer?]

"......"

[Tsk, tsk. I told you to be careful. I've repeatedly said that we humans are just pawns in front of the Archdukes.]

Cody Cruz silently raised his sword.

There was no murderous intent or fighting spirit felt.

He knew that the sword was aimed at himself inside, not Lee Jung-jae, the owner of the body.

[Puhaha. Did Lucifer tell you to? To bring me?]

Swish. Swish. Swish.

A purple staff was materialized in Kasim Jort's hand.

It was in the body of Lee Jung-jae, who had trained all kinds of weapons.

Swinging a sword didn't suit him as a magician class.

Chiiik. Chiiik.

The floor melted from the poison flowing through the staff.

Because Kasim Jort's magic had become more poisonous than before, and Cody Cruz's swordsmanship was wielded with strength unlike before, without technique.

It was an action he wouldn't have done if he was in his right mind.

Clang.

The sword, with only the handle left, fell to the floor, making a sound.

And.

The moment light seemed to condense in his hand.

Pazzuzzz.

A new sword was created.

A sword that could only be created with a skill before.

It was the Holy Sword Durandal.

[Indeed, is it worth throwing away the sword.]

Kasim Jort, who said that, wasn't just standing still.

Skill ‘Dystopia’.

Skill ‘Demonization’.

Kwahhh!

Kwaddeudeuk.

A huge demon appeared over the swamp filled with poison.

The power was stronger than before as it grew to SSS rank.

The skill used by the original owner was nothing compared to what Lee Jung-jae used.

As if it were a spear.

He threw the staff.

Swish.

[……!!]

Durandal, along with the poisonous staff, cut off one of the materialized arms.

Kwahhh!

Dazzling radiance interfered with Kasim Jort's super-fast regeneration.

Swish.

While Durandal was removing the other arm, Kasim Jort was able to activate a new skill.

Skill 'Beelzebub's Thought'.

Quang!!

Within the area of 'Dystopia'.

Purple magic exploded relentlessly.

Durandal, which had been swung at the neck as an afterthought, was knocked out by the exploding magic.

There was Kasim Jort, who had completely recovered his body in the form of a demon.

He drew his hand in the air with his jagged fingernails.

[Damn Kim Tae-hyun. One skill has been sealed since he was defeated by that brat.]

He was talking about the skill ‘Devil Gate’.

He can't use it now.

But the power enhanced by the Great Demon Gorper originally had the power to summon the monsters in the deepest part.

Newly registered skill ‘Beelzebub's Thought’.

He can only use that ability for a moment.

[Skills are not important to the Great Demon.]

"......"

Cody Cruz's eyes turned to the gate.

Min Ji-hong was walking out of there.

The body reassembled with the beast tribe's was noticeable.

He looked at Lee Jung-jae, who summoned him.

Purple magic of Beelzebub in his red eyes.

[What kind of situation is this?]

He asked, convinced that Kasim Jort was dominating Lee Jung-jae's body.

[Kkkkk. Doesn't the last battle come to mind? Don't worry. This time it will be a perfect 2 vs 1.]

[That's not what I meant?]

[Your body looks good.]

[......]

Kasim Jort continued to speak only his words, even though Min Ji-hong asked.

[Is the recovery completely over?]

He asked, scanning Min Ji-hong's body, which could no longer be called human.

[…Yes. I came back from the end of death.]

He looked at Cody Cruz.

[That guy doesn't look sane either?]

[Kkk. He was remodeled by Lucifer. Nothing is as insignificant as a human life.]

[What a pathetic fate.]

Kwaaaaaa.

Min Ji-hong raised his brown magic.

He used to be the worst demon.

Now, the highest species demon and the highest species beast demon.

The two beings poured attacks on Cody Cruz.

Light erupted from Cody Cruz's body.

SSS rank skill that grew with explosive body.

'Holy Knight'.

Min Ji-hong smiled bitterly as he looked at him emitting light.

If it was before, he would have been blinded and backed away.

[Now, even that light seems insignificant.]

Shinhan Ancient Martial Arts Style 1 Tae Baek.

Kwajik.

Min Ji-hong's hand blade knocked out Cody Cruz's hand holding Durandal.

At Kasim Jort's gesture, the ground he stood on melted as if it were a swamp.

It was only a brief moment of hesitation.

Min Ji-hong did not miss the gap.

Shinhan Ancient Martial Arts Style 2 San Gyeong.

Kwang!!

Shinhan Ancient Martial Arts Style 5 Goryeo.

Jjeoeok!!

Cody Cruz's body, which he couldn't properly defend, was knocked away.

Walleok.

Cody Cruz spat blood from his mouth and raised his body.

The armor made of huge magic was horribly crumpled.

Shinhan Ancient Martial Arts Style 6 Sipjin.

Just before Min Ji-hong's attack, which was about to finish it, reached.

Kwareuk!!

Gray magic swallowed the radiance.

The magic of Archduke Lucifer.

Using the skill ‘Falling Angel’ of the Archduke contractor.

Although it is covered by a helmet and armor, it was clearly a figure reminiscent of an angel.

[Puhaha. It's been a while.]

[Yes. It's a disgusting look.]

The two demons said, weighing the power of Cody Cruz, who could no longer be called human.

Just as they each gained the power of the highest species.

Cody Cruz also gained power far surpassing that power.

The difference is that the energy felt from Cody Cruz's magic stone is similar to the combination of Kasim Jort's and Min Ji-hong's.

Cody Cruz was the first to move.

As he reached out his hand.

Kiiing.

Durandal, which was more faded than before, was summoned again.

And.

He stretched out another hand.

Kiiiiing.

Contrasting with Durandal's radiance.

A gray magic sword was created.

[Oh dear. Are you already thinking of finishing it?]

[Do you know the weapon?]

[Kukuk. I know it well. Holy Sword Balmung. It's a sword I took out only when my life was in danger.]

[Then….]

[Yes. That also means that you can't maintain that state for long.]

[Support me….]

Even before he finished speaking.

Hooong.

He instinctively turned his head.

Peoeok.

Durandal, who had already flown away, was stuck in Kasim Jort's chest.

With the radiance, the demon's body began to harden.

[Seal…!!]

Again, before he could finish speaking.

Min Ji-hong raised his arm.

Kkang!!

Balmung, who failed to aim for the neck, was trying to tear apart the muscles as a second option.

Geugeugeuk.

Min Ji-hong, wrapped in brown magic, raised his arm.

He's thinking of blowing it away with the sword.

But as if the struggle so far was a joke.

Swish.

Balmung cut Min Ji-hong's arm as it was.

[What is this….]

It was the moment Min Ji-hong was embarrassed.

Cody Cruz casually swung his sword.

Pook.

[Cough….]

It was the moment he saw the sword stuck in his heart.

Kiiiiing.

Holy Sword Balmung.

From that cursed sword.

Gray magic bloomed.

'Amazing technology.'

Tae-hyun thought as he looked at the Yeouiju floating in front of him.

At first, he thought it was simply a compressed form of breath.

But it wasn't.

The Yeouiju automatically activated 'Source Element' just by its existence.

Is that all?

The body enhanced with 'Beast Transformation' and 'Demonization' made close combat possible.

The 'Great Demon's Heart' and 'Highest Species' Eyes' maximized the efficiency of the body and skills.

Without borrowing the power of 'Predation', he gained physical abilities equivalent to those of a Great Demon.

Destruction and regeneration were repeated with each collision.

The screams came not from Gilfer, but from the elders.

[Kuhak….]

[Lord….]

[Kaaa….]

[Please….]

[Kia….]

[Kihaak….]

[Save….]

The elders' pleas were ignored as Tae-hyun strengthened 'Energy Drain'.

'A little more… A little more perfect Yeouiju….'

With that greed, the elders eventually fell.

It was made with the bodies of the elders, a technique that only the leaders could do.

It was not surprising that they, who possessed the pure-blooded dragon heart, fell.

Thanks to this, the Yeouiju was forming a more complete form than ever before.

[Is this the last one?]

Gilfer asked.

Seven Yeouiju were circling around Tae-hyun, supplying magic.

It was a sight that Gilfer, who had lived for a long time, had never seen before.

"Yes. This is the last one."

The message that stats had increased constantly popped up in front of Tae-hyun's eyes as he received the 'Source Element'.

An uplifting feeling that even made him feel like he had become a pure-blooded dragon.

'Is the power of the Black Dragon even greater than this?'

How far does the strength of the Dragon race go?

With that thought.

Tae-hyun prepared for the final attack.

Whoever it is.

'The game is decided with this one blow.'

The Dragon Slayer Sword poured out lightning as if answering his will.

Episode 367

"That Gorfer fellow. He really wasn't all there, was he?"

This was Taehyun's reaction after hearing Gilfer's entire explanation.

Excluding Gorfer and Gilfer, there were eighteen current Great Demons.

Far more than the five Gorfer had implicitly mentioned.

"But, is it okay for you to tell me all this?"

It was a draw.

Since they couldn't determine a winner, she wasn't obligated to fulfill the terms of their contract as the Ruler of Desire.

Yet, she had answered one of Taehyun's questions.

"Belzebub won't stand for this, will he?"

[That is not something you need concern yourself with.]

Gilfer displayed an indifferent attitude.

She was a Great Demon with memories of her previous life.

Although she had abandoned her authority.

Her potential remained undiminished.

'She might become a Grand Duke someday.'

[The Lower World King's expectations of you are understandable as well.]

They acknowledged each other's strength.

[The Master has not yet relinquished the throne. Obtaining the key is a necessary step for that.]

"You'll never succeed."

[You have certainly entered the realm of Great Demons. But, do not be arrogant.]

"Anyone would mistake us for being on the same side."

Ignoring Taehyun's remark, she continued to speak.

[The bet between Igmun and Jormungandr. If it were simply a brawl, you wouldn't fall so easily. However, Jormungandr is a schemer. Half-hearted power will only hasten your demise.]

"How kind of you. While you're at it, how about telling me about the Upper World?"

Taehyun threw out one of the things he had been consistently curious about.

Gilfer shook her head.

[This body is not free from the Abyss's laws either. You will learn when you face Lucifer.]

"Lucifer..."

The Upper World, called the realm of the Celestial Race.

Among them, the archangel who possessed exceptional power.

Taehyun envisioned his future encounter with that individual.

The Temple of Blood.

The place where Taehyun had fought Bloodya and Igmun's avatar in the past.

After Bloodya's disappearance, the one in charge was the Highest-Ranked Gray Incubus, Earl Grey.

He had made a name for himself in the Depths and caught the eye of Verona, the Highest-Ranked subordinate.

The moment he accepted Igmun's power, he had grown from Upper-Ranked to Highest-Ranked.

And not only that.

Not long after rising in rank, he inherited the infamous Temple of Blood that Bloodya had ruled.

His power grew day by day, and he believed his own era was about to begin.

Or so he thought.

One month ago.

Verona had visited the Temple of Blood.

The Highest-Ranked Verona.

One of the few beings among the vampires known to rival the Great Demons.

She clicked her tongue as she observed the monsters neglecting their territory management and indulging in hunting and pleasure.

One of Earl Grey's sworn brothers, who didn't recognize her, touched her body.

Squish.

Thud.

In less than a few seconds, his mana was drained, and he met his death.

A tragic end, unthinkable for a Highest-Ranked being.

It was only natural that Earl Grey, who resided in the deepest part of the temple, came out amidst the commotion.

Verona's ominous red eyes flashed as she scanned his body.

Compared to his time causing trouble in the Depths, his mana itself had become stronger.

Nevertheless.

[Earl Grey. You've become decadent.]

She seemed disappointed by his lack of fighting spirit.

[I, I apologize, Lady Verona.]

Earl Grey prostrated himself, adopting a posture of submission.

Although they were both Highest-Ranked.

She was the Grand Duke's closest aide.

A being who had transcended the wall.

He couldn't dare consider himself equal to her.

Verona scanned the others who had lowered their heads just like Earl Grey.

They were all pathetic.

If Rosaria's Contractor and the King's Key, Kim Taehyun, were to attack again, they were lowlifes who wouldn't be able to put up a proper fight.

Even so, she did not punish them.

Even lowlifes had their own uses.

[Raise your heads. One month from now, according to Earth time, a bet will take place here.]

[...]

[The Temple of Blood. Lord Igmun will come here.]

[...]!!

The monsters trembled.

It was not often that a Grand Duke personally visited their territory.

[What brings Lord Igmun here...]

Earl Grey mustered the courage to ask.

[Didn't I say, a bet? Igmun, of course, and also Jormungandr and Rosaria will come.]

[...]!!

The monsters' bodies froze as if struck by lightning.

Three Grand Dukes gathering in one place?

And that place was, of all places, the Temple of Blood?

Only then did Earl Grey realize they were in the midst of a territory war.

It was a miracle that Verona hadn't punished them immediately for showing such a sloppy appearance.

[Behave yourselves.]

Her words implied that there would be no second chances.

[Understood!!]

[Loyalty to the Lord!!]

Earl Grey and his subordinates answered loudly.

He strengthened the barrier that Igmun had engraved in the Temple of Blood.

It was a basic barrier that strengthened the vampires' power within a certain radius and weakened the power of other races.

In addition to this, various devices were activated to gain an advantage in the bet.

Verona stayed there to supervise.

And a month passed quickly.

An unprecedented situation unfolded in the Temple of Blood.

Three Grand Dukes had gathered, leading their forces.

As agreed in advance, except for Igmun, who was providing the venue, the number of people was limited to eleven, including the Grand Duke, per gate.

[It's almost time.]

Igmun said, looking at the two large gates he had opened inside the Temple of Blood.

One led to Jormungandr's Dragon Palace, and the other led to Rosaria's domain.

Originally, it was impossible to move from another Grand Duke's territory due to the barrier.

However, it was possible if the territory's owner allowed it.

Of course, given the considerable long-distance travel, using the gates alone consumed immense stamina and mana.

This was why Igmun had chosen this place as the location for the bet.

Kwaaaaa.

The gates rippled, and the sound of crashing waves was heard.

Soon, a man with flowing blue hair appeared from the gate.

It was Jormungandr.

Ten Highest-Ranked beings followed behind him.

Except for a few, these were individuals Igmun was seeing for the first time.

[Welcome to my domain.]

Igmun greeted Jormungandr with a feigned smile.

[For someone saying that, you've reinforced the barrier. It's so suffocating that it's unpleasant.]

Jormungandr, who immediately grasped the situation, commented thus.

Indeed.

The air in the domain reeked of blood, allowing the vampires to exert their greatest power.

[The benefits of a domain are like that.]

Igmun grinned in response.

Jormungandr would decide the method of the bet.

He had used the best possible approach to ensure that the vampires could win, no matter what Jormungandr came up with.

[You've been thinking more than usual.]

[If we're talking about being devious, can you even compare?]

The two Grand Dukes engaged in a war of nerves, not backing down even a little.

The Highest-Ranked beings on both sides were suffocating in between them.

Just then.

Kwaaaaa.

Another large gate rippled.

[She's coming.]

Igmun and Jormungandr's gazes turned to the rippling gate.

Drip. Drip. Drip.

Along with the sound of dragging tentacles, Rosaria appeared.

Behind her followed Taehyun and a Highest-Ranked monster maintaining a humanoid form.

[The fools were waiting for this lady, I see.]

Rosaria smirked as she joined the war of nerves.

'Strong.'

That was the first thought that came to Taehyun's mind as he crossed the gate.

In particular, the presence emanating from Igmun's subordinates was unusual.

This was partly due to the influence of the barrier acting on the Temple of Blood.

But it also showed how much effort Igmun had put into this bet.

However.

'Our forces aren't to be trifled with either.'

Taehyun looked back at the forces he had gathered.

The Dragon Clan's seven elders, Erebus, and Gilfer.

These were the partners who would fight this bet with Taehyun.

Originally, Muron should have been in that spot.

But thanks to Gilfer volunteering to take a spot, the Nightmare Clan was excluded.

They had already completed a simple contract, so there was no need to worry about betrayal.

[Be careful, brother. They're all formidable individuals.]

Erebus, who had shrunk in size, approached and said in a low voice.

The seven elders and Gilfer, who had pulled their black hoods low, simply stood behind Taehyun without saying a word.

[Giants, Dragon Clan, and even a Demon Clan, huh?]

[An interesting combination.]

Igmun and Jormungandr commented.

[But the Nightmare Clan isn't here?]

[Rosaria. It seems your Contractor is well aware of the Nightmare Clan's weakness.]

[Listening to the fools' jealousy is also tiresome.]

Even though they were simply speaking, it seemed like sparks were flying.

As the war of nerves that had been between two people transformed into a three-way battle.

The Highest-Ranked beings gulped.

If the Grand Dukes here decided to unleash their power, they would all have to prepare for a battle of annihilation.

In that respect, Taehyun's proposal to have representatives fight was an excellent one.

"There's a lot of talk. Jormungandr, I don't think we've heard what the bet will be yet?"

From the beginning, it was agreed that Taehyun would decide the time, Igmun the place, and Jormungandr the content.

Taehyun determined the optimal time for Rosaria to recover and for himself to grow, and Igmun prepared the place to allow his subordinates to exhibit their best power.

Meanwhile, Jormungandr had not revealed the details of the bet, preventing others from benefiting from it.

[Fuhuhu. You waited a month, but you're impatient.]

[Shut up and tell us already.]

[This lady also feels the same.]

Everyone's attention turned to Jormungandr.

Jormungandr savored the attention as if enjoying it, then opened his mouth.

[Hunting the Celestial Race of the Upper World.]

[You...]

[Are you crazy?]

Igmun and Rosaria reacted simultaneously.

[Fuhuhuhu.]

Jormungandr laughed as if he had expected it.

[I happened to discover the movements of those guys who came down here.]

[That snake-like bastard... It shouldn't be like that?]

[Dare you disobey the King's orders?]

[Don't worry about the prohibition. I've already solved it with my authority.]

[You're crossing the line...!!]

[That crazy snake...]

The reason Rosaria and Igmun were growling was none other than the Abyss's restrictions.

The power difference between the Upper and Lower Worlds was clear.

Therefore, the King wanted the Lower World's forces to be fully maintained in preparation for the future race war.

Thus, he imposed a restriction.

The Lower World's monsters could only fight the Celestial Race of the Upper World in a race war.

This was because the Abyss as a whole could be attacked if the relatively weak Lower World provided a pretext.

[How absurd. How long are you guys going to live like this?]

Jormungandr asked, wiping the smile from his face.

What the King wanted was a challenge.

In that respect, Belzebub, Lucifer, Orgal, and Hazad were better than you vermin.

He shouted, rarely getting agitated.

'Jormungandr, that fellow, he figured it out after all.'

Taehyun, who had been watching quietly, understood the hidden intention within his words.

He knew that they were plotting to surpass the King at any time.

Taehyun had also figured out that Belzebub was building up his power in a hidden domain.

Lucifer, Orgal, and Hazad were also devising ways to throw off the restrictions through their Contractors.

[You do not have the right to refuse. I have decided this.]

Jormungandr said as if declaring it.

If they refused, Igmun and Taehyun would lose.

Taehyun would have to make a pact of subjugation with Jormungandr.

He reiterated, as if driving the point home once more.

Taehyun cut into the war of nerves between the three Grand Dukes.

"Not bad. I accept."

[Contractor!!]

[...]

"After all, I'll be the one to win. What about you?"

Taehyun stared at Igmun.

[This one also... accepts, of course.]

Igmun said, gritting his teeth.

Jormungandr let out a satisfied laugh.

[Then there's no need to waste time, right?]

Jormungandr used his power.

A vast power acted on the area for a moment.

Kwaaaaaaa.

The two gates that had been allowed for Rosaria and Jormungandr's movement slowly merged.

In the blink of an eye, the large gate became a super-large gate.

And from there.

Three women walked out.

Okay, here's the translation:

Episode 368

Clearly, the three women in human form were clad in radiant armor.

It was a sight Taehyun had seen before.

Cody Cruz's skill.

'Holy Knight.'

The antics of Jormungandr caused all eyes in the Temple of Blood to turn to these figures shrouded in radiance.

[He finally did it….]

Igmune, uncharacteristically, made his crimson eyes quiver.

Upper Realm and Lower Realm.

Celestials and Demons.

As their names suggest, Celestials possess greater power than Demons.

Despite this, balance is maintained due to the relatively large number of Demons and the absolute power of the Archdemons.

Due to the laws of the Abyss, where intangible forces are at play, Celestials cannot freely roam.

However, just as the Archdemons circumvent the laws of the Abyss through some means, the Celestials also had methods.

Moreover, since Jormungandr summoned them with the intention of dominating this wager, he wouldn't have summoned low-ranking Celestials.

The prediction was accurate.

Walking out of the gate were not low-ranking or mid-ranking, but high-ranking Celestials.

Valkyries.

[It's been a while.]

Rosaria said, scanning their armor.

Despite the friendly tone.

The disgust in her voice could not be hidden.

Similarly, the expressions of the three suddenly summoned Valkyries were not good either.

[We've been had.]

[Jormungandr's doing….]

[Rosaria and Igmune too… It's a trap.]

Their eyes, hidden behind golden helmets, glowed blue.

Azure eyes contrasted with the crimson eyes of the Demons.

Radiant spears formed in their hands, clad in armor.

[Might as well hear your names.]

Rosaria asked with a sweet smile.

[There's no reason to answer a Demon.]

One of the Valkyries replied, pointing her spear at her.

Such a confident attitude in front of an Archdemon.

Unlike the other Demons who held their breath, Taehyun was slightly impressed.

[Insignificant beings dare to point their spears at whom?]

Igmune, who usually looked down on Rosaria, couldn't stand it and bared his teeth.

Outwardly, they were adversaries, but in the end, Rosaria was also an Archdemon.

To ignore such an Archdemon was the same as ignoring himself.

Although those gathered here were divided into three factions.

With a common enemy, the Celestials, before them, they had to be seen as linked under the broader category of Demons.

Moreover, there were three Archdemons.

Even if they were the highest-ranking Celestials, they shouldn't have taken such an attitude.

Rosaria, who had been unresponsive to the constant insults, opened her mouth.

[Gunnr, Eir, Skjal.]

[……!!]

[……!!]

[……!!]

[So, those are your names.]

Rosaria, who had read their memories in a brief moment, burst into laughter.

It was a mocking laugh, implying that nothing could be hidden from her.

Kieeeing.

The radiant spears they held emitted an even more intense light.

The three Valkyries thrust their spears towards the three Archdemons.

Hwaaaak.

A shockwave of radiance spread throughout the area.

'This is insane.'

It was an absurd power.

Despite being a light swing, Taehyun's senses told him that each of the three Valkyries' thrusts was comparable to a Yeouiju.

Just as he was about to unleash his magic power due to the unexpected power.

[How rude.]

[Insignificant.]

[Ahahahaha.]

Jormungandr, Igmune, Rosaria lightly waved their hands.

Wheeeeee.

Kwaaaaa.

Tsuzzzzzz.

With just that, the massive shockwave was neutralized.

The three Valkyries raised their radiance again.

It was the power that those who knew of the Upper Realm called Divine Power.

[Calm yourselves.]

In the tense atmosphere, Jormungandr quietly reprimanded them.

The tone was gentle, but it contained an irresistible force.

[Your opponents are not us.]

Rosaria continued.

[We could kill you if we wanted to.]

Igmune said, flicking his fingers.

Tsuzzzzzzzzz.

Crimson magic enveloped the area.

He created a massive Blood Field.

Combined with the barrier acting on the Temple of Blood, the power of Igmune's followers was further enhanced.

[Oh my. How cowardly.]

Rosaria was about to say that.

Ttaak.

Jormungandr also flicked his fingers.

Kwarururururu.

The surging blue magic instantly formed a Sea of Magic.

The magic of the followers behind Jormungandr began to skyrocket.

"Rosaria, what about us?"

Taehyun asked, looking at Rosaria.

[…….]

She remained silent for a moment.

[Contractor. Would you like me to create an Imaginary World?]

"……."

To fight in the Imaginary World, Rosaria would have to be continuously involved in the battle.

That did not fit the conditions of the wager.

"I shouldn't have said anything."

Tting.

[Skill Apocalypse (SSS) has been activated. Expanding the range.]

[Skill Heart of the Great Demon (SSS) has been activated.]

[Proficiency of all skills increases.]

Hwaaaaaaak.

Kieeeeeeeng.

Darkness descended around Taehyun.

Before he knew it, four fields had formed in the Temple of Blood.

Vampires who had unleashed their magic power in the Blood Field created by Igmune.

Sea Serpent people who had unleashed their magic power in the Sea of Magic created by Jormungandr.

The three Valkyries emitting brilliant light.

And.

Those who had drawn up their fighting spirit from Taehyun's Apocalypse were facing each other.

Sparks flew every time the four domains touched.

[Well. Then we shall step back.]

[Do not defile this venerable castle.]

[Igmune. Your hospitality is terrible.]

Sss.

Sssss.

Sssssss.

Without anyone saying anything first, the three Archdemons disappeared.

They used their own techniques to escape the domain.

They were probably sitting and watching leisurely not far away.

The wager proposed by Jormungandr was who would hunt more Celestials.

'I can't hunt them all at once.'

The power Taehyun had brought was considerable, but there must have been a reason why he had only designated three Valkyries as prey.

'Ideally, it's best to distribute them one by one. Using the Ruler of Desire….'

Just as Taehyun was thinking that.

Puwhack!!

"……!!"

[……!!]

[……!!]

Starting with the beheading of one of Jormungandr's followers.

The battle began.

[How dare you try to choose your opponents.]

Valkyrie Gunnr stepped into the domain of Apocalypse.

With every step she took.

The darkness of Apocalypse became brighter, rendering it meaningless.

"You're going to fight ten alone?"

Was it arrogance or confidence?

"You'll find out soon enough."

Tting.

[Skill Eye of the Supreme (SSS) has been activated.]

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

Kugugugugu.

Chwareureuk. Chwareureureureuk.

Valkyrie Gunnr stared silently at the oppressive force pressing down on her and the chains surrounding her.

But that was only for a moment.

When she swung her spear.

Peoak!!

'Apocalypse' shook uneasily, as if it were a living thing directly hit by the spear.

"……!!"

[Do not underestimate them.]

Gilfel's voice echoed in his head.

It was telepathy, a technique possessed by a few Supreme beings.

"Do you know them?"

[Well, I just want to tell you that they are at least as good as the prime of the original Devil.]

"……!!"

The current Taehyun cannot even have a complete match with Gilfel, who has abandoned his authority.

Valkyrie Gunnr in front of him.

She was on par with Gilfel's prime?

Gilfel's telepathy continued.

Her voice was urgent as if she was an unexpected opponent.

[The authority of the Celestials is determined by the master they serve. Their master is Odin of the Seventh Heaven. His authority is 'Rune'.]

'Rune?'

[Yes. It allows you to use collected runes on anything.]

"That's vague. Some more proper information…."

[That's what Celestials are. Especially that one seems to be able to handle at least five runes.]

As she said, a slightly darker radiance was flashing in five places on Gunnr's body in the 'Eye of the Supreme'.

It even gave the illusion that there were five magic stones.

While Taehyun was scanning the Valkyrie's body.

Valkyrie Gunnr also saw through Taehyun's party at a glance.

Giants who reduced their size.

Demons who hid their identities.

Polymorphed Dragons.

And even a human who smelled something unpleasant.

What was even more surprising was that the leader of these people, who boasted power in the Abyss, seemed to be that human.

[You'll find out if you cut open their bellies.]

Gunnr nonchalantly said something gruesome and rotated her spear once.

Whoong.

[I'll test it.]

Pajijik.

Erebus, clad in lightning, stepped forward.

His fist, one of the best among the Supreme beings, collided with the spear.

And something unbelievable happened.

Kwang!!

Erebus was bounced back as it was.

The repulsion was so severe that he would have bounced into the Sea of Magic or the Blood Field if the chains of Apocalypse had not caught him.

'Strong.'

Enough to face everyone here.

Only then did Taehyun guess why Jormungandr had brought these guys.

From the beginning, he thought that ten Supreme beings of each tribe would hunt these guys.

In fact, he was going to make these Valkyries hunt the followers.

What if one group of others was pushed back?

Rather, ten Supreme beings would have to face two Valkyries.

'The numerical advantage disappears.'

In the worst case, they might have to face all three Valkyries.

The content of the wager is who hunts the most Valkyries.

Failure of the wager is surrendering or losing one's life.

Jormungandr doesn't want Key's death, so he's trying to create a situation where Taehyun has no choice but to give up.

'As expected, Jormungandr is playing interesting tricks.'

While he was racking his brain, Gunnr was enduring the aura spewed out by the seven elders and approaching.

At this rate, he would have no choice but to enter a full-scale battle.

'Ten Supreme beings sticking together are only equal to one Valkyrie.'

Then, what if he made the Valkyrie fight with another guy?

The shorter the worry, the faster the choice, the better.

Tting.

[Skill Ruler of Desire (SSS) has been activated. Identifying the target.]

Deep blue magic power rose from Taehyun's body.

"Valkyrie Gunnr. How about we join hands?"

[…….]

Gunnr, who had been advancing while enduring the aura, stopped moving.

All that could be seen behind the helmet was her eyes and mouth.

But he could tell that she was clearly dumbfounded.

[That power. It's Golfer's.]

"If you know, it'll be faster to talk."

Taehyun made a proposal to Gunnr that would pique her interest.

If she, including the three Valkyries, all supported him.

He would help them end this battle immediately and escape from this place.

"You know that what I'm saying isn't a lie, right?"

Because those blue eyes seemed to see through lies.

Gunnr's 고민 [gomin, worry/deliberation] was shorter than he thought.

Whoong.

The light seemed to flash from her spear.

Hwareureureuk.

The light of radiance simply extinguished the surrounding deep blue magic power.

"Too bad."

[Be careful. It's not compatible with your desire, which lacks skill.]

"Tell me that earlier."

Taehyun grumbled and drew his Dragonslayer Sword.

It was because Gunnr was extending her spear.

'Deflect it without blocking.'

To avoid repeating the mistake Erebus made.

Taehyun lightly deflected her spear that was stabbing at him.

With just that.

Kigigigigik.

The Dragonslayer Sword screamed.

"……!!"

He felt like the skin of the hand holding the sword was peeling off.

'It's not an ordinary spear?'

[That weapon is also made of runes.]

'Tell me that earlier…!!'

Taehyun blocked the spear shaft that Gunnr swung around with the Dragonslayer Sword.

Taehyun's body bounced off from the impact.

It was a monstrous force that didn't match her size.

[That's also Rune Armor….]

"Just don't say anything!!"

Taehyun ignored Gilfel's telepathy and drew up his magic power.

As a signal, the seven elders manifested into their true forms.

A massive aura was concentrated on the Valkyrie.

But as if such aura was ridiculous.

Puwhaak.

The wings of two elders were torn off in an instant.

[Kuhahaha!! Keuheok…!!]

The giant body of Erebus, who had giantified, bounced off.

Only Gilfel.

Kkaang.

She only blocked the spear of radiance with her poisonous claws.

"Look at that."

Taehyun seemed displeased.

He used the next skill.

369

Inside the Temple of Blood.

From there, the three Archdukes were watching the battle.

Even without Yormungandr's special Odd Eyes, there was no problem in confirming the battle outside.

This is because everyone is at the Archduke level, so their sensory perception and awareness are special.

[You've done something interesting, Yormungandr.]

It was Rozaria who said that.

Unlike the composure she showed in front of Taehyun.

From the moment she entered the Temple of Blood, she did not hide her unpleasant expression.

[Fuhuhu. What are you talking about?]

Yormungandr shrugged, as if he didn't know what she was talking about.

[Don't you think you'll be safe after daring to disobey the King's orders?]

Each of them swore allegiance to the King for different reasons.

But Rozaria is by far the one who follows the King more than any other Archduke.

She wanted to have a final battle with Yormungandr right away because of the guilt that she had disobeyed the King's orders.

But that would also be Yormungandr's cunning trap.

[You're like a cowardly girl, Rozaria.]

Rozaria controlled her emotions by clicking her tongue at Yormungandr's obvious provocation.

It's already happened anyway.

Shouting more here would only make her look ridiculous.

Rather, it was Igmun who took the obvious bait.

[This might be the first time I agree with Rozaria. You snake bastard.]

The only jade throne in the Temple of Blood.

Igmun, sitting with his legs crossed in the place indicating the owner of the territory, spat out profanity.

He shared experience with the first Archduke, Lilith, and was almost hostile to Rozaria.

But in the current situation, he had no choice but to side with Rozaria.

[The sly guy was so confident. If it's a trap, you've tricked me quite nicely.]

There was a bone in that word.

[Okay, I should listen to the cowardly boy this time. How about trying to persuade this one?]

Fuhuhuhu.

Yormungandr pretended to be ignorant and asked, acting like a saint.

That appearance made Igmun even more annoyed.

If it had been the hot-tempered Orgal or Belzebub, they would have launched an attack long ago.

If it hadn't been for the power of the Great Demon that Kim Taehyun used.

If the celestials of the Upper Realm had not intervened in the bet.

He would have pulled out his blood sword and stuck it in that guy's eyes long ago.

Unlike in the Demon Sea, his main body is here, and this is the place where his power can exert the most power.

Like Rozaria.

Suppressing the boiling anger, Igmun quietly opened his mouth.

[Odin's Valkyries. Aren't those among the highest-ranking subordinates?]

[Hoo. You remembered.]

Yormungandr said, as if praising him.

From his attitude, he could be certain once again.

That choosing the Valkyries from among the considerable number of celestials quietly watching the Abyss was no coincidence.

Gritting.

Igmun gritted his teeth.

As the key, Taehyun's power, grows stronger.

The Archdukes, who can be said to be the highest species among the demons, are gradually regaining their ancient memories.

Among them were memories of before the regression and several race wars.

Unlike the horizontally wide Lower Realm.

The Upper Realm was a vertically structured structure.

From some point on, the Lower Realm ruled by demons was called the Abyss.

The Upper Realm ruled by the celestials was called the Celestial Realm.

The Celestial Realm was divided into ten layers, and the Valkyries belonged to the celestials in the 7th Celestial Realm.

Odin's direct unit, the master of the 7th Celestial Realm.

Gunnr, Eir, and Skal, who hold the position of legion commander among them.

They were the ones who annihilated a considerable number of the highest species in the previous race war.

Among them were Yormungandr and Igmun's highest species.

No, clearly in the most recent race war, Igmun's subordinates were almost wiped out by them.

This is because Igmun faced the 7th Celestial Realm.

Yormungandr couldn't have not known that fact.

Even so, bringing the Valkyries also meant mocking Igmun.

Even though they cannot use their original power in the Lower Realm.

The Archdukes cannot fully use their power due to the King's restrictions.

And the possibility that those subordinates who inherited the Archdukes' powers can win against the Valkyries is extremely low.

Yormungandr must also know that fact.

Even so, creating such a stage means.

[The guys you brought are all throwaway pieces, right?]

Igmun spat out as if chewing on it.

It was because he was convinced that his guess was correct.

[That's a cruel thing to say.]

Yormungandr smiled, not denying it.

[I've known so many beings for so long, but the more I know about you, Yormungandr, the more repulsive you are.]

Rozaria clicked her tongue and seconded Igmun's words.

She could clearly see it in her red eyes as well.

The highest species that Yormungandr brought.

That they are far inferior to Igmun's subordinates.

The plan is to annihilate all the highest species using the Valkyries, and ultimately weaken Igmun and Rozaria's forces.

Perhaps Yormungandr's subordinates will be annihilated first.

And if the two Valkyries join forces.

Whether it's Igmun's highest species or Taehyun's forces.

Annihilation was obvious.

[Now that you understand my thoughts, there's no need to say more.]

Yormungandr grinned, not caring about the two Archdukes' mockery.

[If everyone is bound to be annihilated anyway. Shouldn't we save the key, at least?]

[The key belongs to this one.]

Igmun said, revealing his energy, as if he would not allow any more jokes.

The inside of the temple vibrated with the strengthened crimson magic power.

[Aha ha ha. Everyone is judging hastily. Don't you know this one's contractor even after being fooled like that?]

Rozaria also raised purple magic power.

[Kuhuk. Is that so. Then let's watch a little more.]

It was the moment Yormungandr said that.

Kwaang.

The Temple of Blood shook with a roar.

Many presences disappeared.

[This... It doesn't seem like it will take long, making the wait meaningless.]

Yormungandr chuckled.

Yormungandr's subordinates were all annihilated by Valkyrie Skal's skill.

It was truly arrogant and a terrible difference in power.

Unlike Yormungandr, who didn't care about the annihilation of his subordinates.

Igmun and Rozaria's expressions hardened.

Depending on where Valkyrie Skal joins, the current tense battle will tilt to one side.

It is natural that annihilation cannot be avoided.

Unlike the vanished Demon Sea, the still existing 'Blood Field' and 'Apocalypse'.

Valkyrie Skal seemed to be estimating the two territories.

[This. It seems like I will prove your words this time, Rozaria.]

Yormungandr said with a chuckle.

This is because Skal joined Gunnr, who was fighting Taehyun's forces.

[......]

Rozaria's expression hardened even more.

'Skal, was it? This isn't good…'

Taehyun thought as he watched the Valkyrie trying to enter the territory of Apocalypse far away.

It was a balance that was barely maintained with a total of ten people attacking.

But if one more enemy is added.

'Complete defeat.'

The worst outcome was easily drawn.

It was said to be one, but in fact, the enemy's power increased by more than double.

'I can't be played by Yormungandr's tricks anymore.'

Taehyun grasped the situation as he watched Skal, who was coming to the strengthened 'Apocalypse' as if it were her own home.

Erebus, whose arm was blown away in the previous attack, was regenerating at super speed, and the seven elders were casting magic and breath to buy time.

Gilfel was doing well, at least.

Even though she hasn't opened her horns and tail yet, she was dealing meaningful attacks to Gunnr.

However, she set a condition that she would not fully open her strength as a condition for participating in this bet.

It was difficult to expect more help than this.

'If I use the Orb of Power in a melee like this… I can't guarantee the elders' lives.'

The elder-level forces were too precious to lose here.

At that time.

Skal completely entered the territory of Apocalypse.

Glory gathered in her hand as she watched the situation for a while.

A spear that seemed to pierce through anything turned into the form of a bow.

That bow was aimed at Gilfel, who was confronting Gunnr.

'I won't let you.'

Tting.

[Skill Dark Apostle (SSS) has been activated. Locating the position.]

Sususut.

Momentarily seeping into the darkness.

Taehyun, who moved behind Skal, swung the Dragonslayer Sword.

Kkaang!!

Skal swung the bow she was aiming and blocked the Dragonslayer Sword.

No damage seemed to be done to the bow, no matter what it was made of, even with the Dragonslayer Sword's slash.

'What kind of weapon is that?'

Suddenly, Cody Cruz's Holy Sword.

Durandal came to mind.

'Can that sword… turn into such a monstrous weapon?'

Taehyun completely blocked Skal's path as he speculated on various possibilities.

Erebus and Gilfel, who have completely transformed into giants, will not die easily.

On the contrary, if Skal joins, annihilation was a foregone conclusion.

[Why does a human help a demon?]

A neutral voice pierced my ears.

It even felt sacred, like a church worship service.

"Why would a demon follow a human?"

Taehyun imitated her words and asked back.

[Nonsense.]

Skal swung her bow once again at the non sequitur.

Hwoong.

Taehyun twisted his body to avoid it, and all the approaching chains disappeared.

Using a bow like a sword.

It's an unbelievable physical ability.

Kieeng.

Before I knew it, an arrow of light had been created in Skal's other hand.

Tting.

[Skill Chains of Restraint (SSS) has been enhanced. Targeting the target.]

Piing-

Perhaps because the aim was not perfect thanks to the Chains of Restraint.

The arrow of light pierced through Apocalypse and flew into the territory of Blood Field.

And.

Kwaang!!

A huge explosion occurred.

'Crazy…'

With this level of power, one of Igmun's highest species must have been annihilated.

A new arrow was already loaded on Skal's bow.

Tting.

[Skill Apostle of Gate (SSS) has been activated. Locating the position.]

Kwaaa.

At the same time as a gate was created in front of Taehyun.

Ssweek.

The shot arrow was absorbed into the gate.

Kwaang!!

This time, the explosion occurred far away, inside the Blood Field.

Taehyun sent the attack with the Apostle of Gate.

"Your accuracy doesn't seem that good."

[......]

Skal pulled the bow once again at Taehyun's provocation.

Kwaang!!

The gate swallowed the arrow once again.

"I have enough magic power."

Tting.

[Skill Apostle of Gate (SSS) has been enhanced. Magic power consumption is accelerated.]

[Targeting the target.]

[Locating the position.]

The position was fixed to where the Blood Field was a while ago.

And.

Kwaang!! Kwaang!! Kwaang!!

Four of Igmun's subordinates lost their lives in an instant in Taehyun and Skal's war of nerves.

Igmun, who was watching inside the Temple of Blood, spat out profanity.

Igmun's subordinate Devlin.

She spat out profanity.

This is because another subordinate lost her life through the arrow that flew through the gate a while ago.

She was doing well against Valkyrie Eir.

The Blood Field was about to be released due to the unknown power Eir used, but she endured it well.

But she lost her life so easily in an absurd attack.

[Kim Taehyun….]

Devlin muttered as if chewing on it.

Fortunately, another Valkyrie was heading that way.

There is a possibility if they can somehow deal with Eir.

If the remaining six of them use rampage.

They can bring victory.

Kim Taehyun.

If they deal with this guy, it will be your turn soon.

Devlin raised her blood-red magic power as if making a vow.

Unfortunately.

That thought didn't last long.

Verona quietly assessed the situation, watching the agitated Devlin.

Igmun had selected the highest-ranking vampires for this wager.

Among them was Devlin, unofficially their leader.

[Devlin, calm down.]

[Ha. Calm down? Are you going to let Kim Taehyun play us after Jormungandr?!!]

Verona couldn't retort to Devlin's outburst.

Because she knew better than anyone.

If Kim Taehyun kept sending attacks into the Blood Field.

Eventually, in their current state, they wouldn't be able to properly fight Eir before them.

No, even Igmun's highest-ranking vampires would eventually be annihilated.

[You're not just going to sit there and get beaten like those idiots, are you?]

Devlin mocked the four highest-ranking vampires who had fallen to the arrows of radiance.

They were merely inferior vampires included to make up the numbers.

Given time, they might reach her level.

But their immediate combat strength was far below hers.

[Of course not.]

Verona agreed with Devlin's thoughts.

Devlin and the remaining six were different from the fallen four.

They were, in every sense, Igmun's limbs.

If two or more were eliminated here.

The vampire clan's power would suffer an indescribable blow.

'It would be similar to Rozaria's power.'

To be similar to the Incubus, the weakest of the Great Dukes.

This was an unbearable disgrace for the Great Duke and his followers.

They had to avoid that situation at all costs.

They, as high-ranking subordinates, couldn't tarnish their master's face.

[What are you thinking so hard about?]

[Devlin, are you going to go berserk?]

[Ha, yes. Don't worry, I won't ask you to do it.]

[…….]

Going berserk.

A high-ranking ability among the highest-ranking vampires.

If they went berserk, their power would be unimaginable.

Perhaps they could even fight on par with the Valkyrie before them.

But if that happened.

[You will surely be destroyed.]

[Hehehe.]

Devlin laughed at Verona's nonchalant attitude.

Reading the emotion beneath it.

[Are you afraid of being destroyed?]

[…….]

Bang.

Another arrow appeared through the gate, and one of the highest-ranking vampires deflected it.

They avoided immediate annihilation like before.

But the grimace on their face showed that the power in the arrow was not light.

The hesitation didn't last long.

[I will follow your lead. The main force will support you.]

[Hehehe. Now I can finally tear that annoying face apart.]

Devlin said, drawing up her magic power.

Whoosh.

Crimson magic power swirled around her body.

Blood Frenzy.

A technique Igmun created to mimic Jormungandr's power.

Like Taehyun had done.

A bloody scent bloomed from Devlin's body, and her physical abilities began to increase rapidly.

In terms of a player, it was like all stats increased by 100.

Was that all?

Whirring.

Devlin's magic stone.

Another magic stone began to form beside it.

Igmun's power, 'Absorption,' was used.

Tzzzzz.

Second heart.

The empty space was quickly filled with magic power sucked in from the Blood Field.

The change didn't end there.

Crackle.

Following the two magic stones, she began to create a third magic stone.

[……!!]

Eir, who had been watching this entire process with her clear eyes, hastily thrust her spear.

Radiance.

A mass of divine power to stop Devlin's transformation.

Verona stepped in front of Devlin as if she had been waiting.

Her fingernails split the mass of divine power.

Whoosh.

With the sound of crimson magic power evaporating, Verona's fingernails burned away.

A truly terrifying power.

A power that even she, nearing the pinnacle of demons, could only barely deflect.

A being that made even the Great Dukes, the rulers of the Abyss, look ridiculous.

The Celestial Race.

[Truly disgusting beings.]

Swoosh.

Verona waved her hand, and fragments like sword energy aimed for Eir's body.

Thud. Thud.

Eir swung her spear, nonchalantly deflecting the crimson magic power.

Eir used a new rune to focus on her attack.

Whirring.

The moment a shield was created with radiance.

Swoosh!

Bang!!

A massive spear suddenly flew in and struck Eir's shield.

[……!!]

The terrifying power shocked not only Eir.

Verona also looked in the direction the spear had been thrown from.

There, Devlin, who had successfully created the third magic stone, was exuding eerie energy.

A state that only the highest-ranking vampires could reach by risking their lives.

Blood Transformation, creating three magic stones.

Everyone here could unleash this ability if given the chance.

But using that power would eventually lead to the original magic stone, unable to withstand the overload, exploding in the end.

The time they could maintain the power was not long, but during that time, they would become invincible beings.

[This power is not light. Odin's dog.]

Devlin said, reaching out her hand.

The magic power of the Blood Field was sucked into her hand.

Whoosh.

An ominous power that seemed to extinguish the radiance at any moment.

Eir, pushed back by Verona's interference, focused new radiance in her hand.

It was the power of amplification, one of the five runes she could use.

It was difficult to operate three runes simultaneously.

But she judged that if she allowed any more resistance, even she might be in danger.

At that moment.

One of the four highest-ranking vampires, excluding Verona and Devlin, began to absorb the magic power of the Blood Field.

And condensed and condensed, handing over the essence of crimson magic power to Devlin.

The other three highest-ranking vampires were on high alert, wary of when the gate might open and arrows might fly in.

[Devlin. I admire your fighting spirit.]

[Turan. Use it well.]

Devlin had already risked her life to tear that Valkyrie apart.

She had no intention of refusing, pretending to have some petty pride.

Devlin unleashed crimson wings that rivaled those of the Demon race.

In her hand was a blood sword, and blood dripped from the long, grown fingernails.

Could there be a more fitting appearance to execute the minion of the Upper Realm?

Hehehe.

Devlin rushed at Eir.

Bang!!

[……!!]

Crack. Crack.

The shield blocking the blood sword cracked in a single blow.

Eir's eyes in the helmet trembled.

Was that all?

Fshhh.

Crimson magic power emitted from the blood sword began to cover the radiance of the shield.

[A rune?]

Devlin asked mockingly.

Rustle.

The shield, consumed by blood, melted away like blood.

Clang!!

The spear of radiance and the blood sword clashed.

[Did you rely on such worthless things?]

Devlin laughed, grabbing Eir's spear.

Crackling.

Ignoring the power that burned her hand, she released crimson magic power.

She thought that she couldn't lose, as she was still sucking in the magic power of the Blood Field even at this moment.

Eventually, the radiance was covered in crimson.

[…….]

Eir's clear eyes, revealed through the helmet, narrowed.

Her rune being tainted by something from a mere demon?

[Where do you think you're going with such triviality.]

Whirring.

Eir, abandoning the spear, created a new spear in her hand.

Not the same kind of spear that Valkyries commonly used.

A holy spear that could only be summoned by concentrating the power of the four runes in one place.

Longinus.

Whoosh.

The divine power emitted from the spear of Longinus brightly illuminated the area.

The fact that Devlin couldn't adapt to the suddenly brightened vision was only for a moment.

But.

Thwack.

The holy spear pierced through her body, not missing that gap.

Splatter.

Blood splattered from Devlin's body.

Even a berserk high-ranking vampire couldn't withstand that kind of impact.

But.

Hehehe.

Devlin walked forward unconcerned.

Thud.

Scratch. Scratch. Scratch.

Her fingernails scratched Eir's armor.

Eir thrust the holy spear in deeper.

Crackle.

Her internal organs were being destroyed by the power that even hindered super-fast regeneration.

If others hadn't continued to absorb the power of the field and infuse it with magic power, her internal organs would have melted away long ago, and her body's movement would have stopped.

[It's useless.]

Devlin said unconcerned, taking another step.

Forward.

Thud.

Finally, her fingernails reached the spot that the armor couldn't cover.

The tip of Eir's hand holding the holy spear.

It was only a brief touch.

But it was enough to use the maximized power.

[Die.]

Whoooooo.

Radiance was sucked in through Devlin's fingernails.

It was the source of power that allowed Eir to maintain her existence, acting as blood in her body.

[Die. Die. Die. Die.]

Devlin repeated those words as if cursing.

Eir also tried to open the power of the holy spear to resist.

But in the end, Devlin, who was receiving the blessing of the domain, had the advantage.

[You are destined to die here with me.]

Hehehehehe.

[…….]

[I will dig out those annoying eyes from your withered body and chew them up. Your tainted body will be hung on the castle, and soon others will follow.]

At the curse-like words, Eir used the last rune.

The rune of recovery, but the amount of power Devlin was absorbing was extraordinary.

It only increased the time to maintain the holy spear and armor.

This is not good.

Devlin, who had braced herself for death, had almost integrated her body with the Blood Field.

She had to risk her life.

That fact made Eir feel uneasy.

Risking her life to deal with a mere demon?

But it wasn't wrong.

If she were defeated here.

She couldn't guarantee the lives of Gunnr and Skal either.

Before the Great Dukes intervened in the battle, she had to eliminate them and get out.

[Damn vampire.]

The moment Eir spat out a curse and was about to use the last rune.

Thwack.

Something was thrust into Devlin's back.

Something unpleasant for both Eir and Devlin.

It was a blue sword exuding the energy of a dragon.

Crackling.

Lightning flowed from the sword.

[……!!]

[……!!]

Eir didn't miss that moment when Devlin faltered.

She quickly pulled out the holy spear she had stabbed into Devlin and distanced herself.

Devlin tried to sink her fingernails in again.

Crackling!!

The opportunity she had barely seized was lost due to the intensified lightning.

Devlin pulled out the sword stuck in her body.

She had no choice but to stick it in the ground because it was constantly emitting lightning just by holding it.

Devlin identified the sword's owner.

Kim Taehyun.

Rozaria's contractor.

And the key to the Lower Realm that her master was after.

The insignificant human was smiling at her.

"Does it hurt?"

[Y-you... damn... bastard...]

And.

"I hurt too."

As if he meant it.

Taehyun put on a clumsy act.

Eir was just as surprised.

The moment she was about to use the fifth rune in the gap that was created by luck.

[Eir, stop.]

It was Gunnr who said that.

Skal and Gunnr.

The two Valkyries who had been fighting Taehyun's group were entering the Blood Field.

[What's going on? Why is that guy...]

[He made a contract.]

Skal's answer raised a question in Eir's clear eyes.

[A contract with a human? What nonsense are you...]

At Eir's attitude demanding an explanation.

[You'll see if you watch.]

[It's best not to deal with such a guy.]

Gunnr and Skal exchanged meaningful glances.

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