RKP 371-380
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371
[Kim Tae-hyun, you damned bug!! Are you trying to die together!!]
Devlin roared as she absorbed Tae-hyun's attack.
It was a battle she had secured, even betting her life.
That victory had returned to square one.
No, rather, even at this moment, Devlin's life force was fading.
It was a battle where she had only lost.
The blood sword in her hand trembled.
If it weren't for the lightning tearing through her body, her limbs would have been chopped off long ago.
"If the battle continues like this, that's right."
Tae-hyun said, confirming his party entering the Blood Field.
[What nonsense are you spouting!!]
Wasn't it you who first accepted Yormungandr's conditions?
Devlin shouted at the top of her lungs.
She was naturally hot-tempered, but
It was difficult to maintain reason when death was approaching every moment, and he was still making jokes.
"Ah, that's right. I just realized that the Celestial Race is stronger than I thought, and if this continues, it will only be as Yormungandr wants. If I realize it now, shouldn't I fix it? "
Devlin trembled at his brazen attitude.
It was unbearable disgust.
[How dare you, for such a reason….]
Obstruct the main battle.
Swish. Swish.
The blood sword flicked its tongue, representing Devlin's feelings.
Just then.
Verona, who had approached, placed her hand on her shoulder.
Tsuzzz.
The magic power absorbed from the Blood Field settled into her body.
It was an action to hide her magic power, which had begun to decrease from earlier.
[Calm down, Devlin. Now….]
There wasn't much time left.
Verona swallowed those words.
If this continues, only she who used the Blood Blossom would die in vain.
Crush.
Devlin bit her teeth.
She knew that the power gnawing at her body was gradually showing its limits.
Before the first magic stone was broken.
Before the others knew this fact and used it.
[I will tear one of them apart and kill them.]
Devlin, who regained her reason with Verona's help, detonated her magic power.
The overwhelming magic power made not only Tae-hyun's party, but even the three Valkyries flinch.
Tae-hyun was also a user of 'Blood Rampage.'
He knew that the price of using such power was not small.
"You don't have much time left, do you?"
[……!!]
[……!!]
[…….]
[…….]
Tae-hyun grinned at the expected reaction.
It was time to overturn the board Yormungandr had created and
It was time to draw a new board.
"I propose a bet. I assure you it won't be bad for you."
That figure.
He looked as cunning as Yormungandr.
Tsuzzzzzz!!
Magic power finally exploded from Devlin's body after hearing Tae-hyun's proposal.
Bastard. Bastard. Bastard. Bastard.
[You worm-like bastard!!]
Clang!!
Tae-hyun hurriedly blocked the magic power Devlin swung with the 'Apostle of Darkness.'
The sword made with skills was broken with just one strike.
"I thought it was a good suggestion?!!"
Those words sounded like mockery to others.
The proposal was not complicated.
The one who wins the captain's battle will have the power to decide the life or death of others.
If accepted, the Valkyries would be persuaded by Tae-hyun.
Looking at Gunr and Skal watching from afar, they knew they had already accepted.
Otherwise, those vulgar warriors of the Upper Realm would not miss an opportunity like this.
So, they had to ignore it.
They must not be played by that treacherous tongue.
Instinct, and the little reason left, were saying so.
"Think carefully…"
Swaaack.
Clang!!
Tae-hyun drew the Dragon Slayer Sword he had retrieved and knocked away the Blood Sword aiming for his neck.
It was Verona, not Devlin, who attacked.
[Do you think we will accept such a proposal.]
Unlike Devlin, Verona spoke in a calm tone.
'Is this guy the real leader?'
Tae-hyun thought, looking at her back.
The number of Igmun's cohorts had decreased considerably to six.
Each and every one of them was unusual.
'Just looking at this guy….'
Tae-hyun thought, looking at Devlin, who was emitting a demonic aura and bloody scent as if she had become the incarnation of blood.
They were originally among the top strong in the Vampire Race, but
They were further strengthened by the barrier set up in the Temple of Blood and the influence of the Blood Field.
Not only that.
They were accepting the Blood Field that Igmun had spread out into their bodies.
No matter how risky the power was.
'Everyone must have hidden a trump card.'
It was fortunate that Devlin's energy was gradually weakening.
[What bait did you give those vulgar things.]
Devlin said, watching the Valkyries who were watching quietly from a distance.
"They're new secret friends, that's a bit much."
[Bastard….]
Unlike his grinning face.
Tae-hyun recalled the conversation he had with Skal a little while ago.
It was when he was desperately blocking the attacks she was creating, just ten minutes ago.
"It's definitely a great attack. But you don't think it will work against the Great Dukes, do you?"
[It's none of your business.]
"Think carefully, Valkyrie Skal. Do you think Yormungandr will let you go even if you defeat us? What about Igmun and Rozaria, who lost their cohorts?"
[…….]
Her lips, revealed inside the helmet, were closed.
Because she knew.
This was the Great Dukes' play.
No matter how many of the Great Dukes' cohorts they defeated.
"You will not return alive from here."
Tae-hyun spoke her thoughts out loud.
Kwaaa.
Once again, radiance gathered in Skal's hand.
Ting.
[Skill Apostle of the Gate (SSS) has been activated. Locating the position.]
The arrow of radiance was sucked straight into the gate.
Kwang.
The explosion occurred inside the Blood Field, quite a distance away.
"My magic power is still sufficient. If time is dragged out. Who will be at a disadvantage?"
[You're acting up, believing in your paltry skills.]
Pazzzk. Pazzzk.
More radiance than before gathered in Skal's bow.
'Five… no, ten shots.'
This was not a level that could be fired with 'Apostle of the Gate.'
[If you block, I will destroy. That is the mission of Odin's Valkyries, our mission.]
"Oh, really."
Ting.
[Skill Apostle of the Gate (SSS) has been enhanced. Magic power consumption is accelerated.]
Kwaaa. Kwa. Kwaaaa.
Ten gates were created around Skal.
[With something like this.]
There was ridicule in Skal's voice.
It was absurd that Tae-hyun was trying to block her attack with just this much.
Soon, the arrow that left the bowstring rang with a sonic boom that seemed to tear the atmosphere apart.
It even gave the illusion of tearing apart space.
Seven out of ten shots came out through the gate.
He could avoid it if he wanted to.
But if he did, he could not guarantee the safety of his party facing Gunr.
He focused his magic power on the 'Eyes of the Highest Species.'
Ting.
[Unique Skill Predation (SSS) has been activated.]
Tseoeok.
A huge swamp was created beneath Tae-hyun's feet.
The moment the arrow, like a divine judgment, approached.
Tseoeoeok.
A maw that had been enlarged to its full size revealed its teeth.
Kwadeuk!!
Kwang. Kwang. Kwang. Kwang.
Explosions were heard from within, but
Chomp. Chomp. Chomp. Chomp.
The maw of Predation only smacked its lips as if it didn't care.
[Predation…!!]
Valkyrie Skal groaned and muttered as if chewing and spitting out.
"The reaction is strange?"
[Why do you have that power….]
Tae-hyun tilted his head, looking at Skal's blue eyes shaking inside the helmet.
They were supposed to be here to spy on the Lower Realm.
No matter how long they had stayed in the Lower Realm.
It was strange that they did not know the identity of Tae-hyun, who had turned the Lower Realm into a wasteland by causing the Territory War.
Except for one reason.
'Is it the law of the Abyss again?'
The absolute restriction placed by the King of the Lower Realm as a safety device.
If it was that power that shook even the Great Dukes' memories, it was not strange that they did not recognize Tae-hyun.
Of course, it seemed that something had changed in their memories with the attack a little while ago.
[I see…. The key… you are… what the Lord was looking for….]
Skal's blue eyes trembled.
It was not unfamiliar to see her confused, as if new memories were being pieced together in her head.
It was an opportunity.
To give her the least amount of shock possible.
But.
Tae-hyun obediently closed the maw of Predation.
'I can't finish it in one go anyway.'
He could clearly see in his red eyes.
The moment he saw that various parts of her body were dyed red, the radiance was immediately covering that part in blue.
It meant that he could not completely devour it with 'Predation' yet.
'She must still have a hidden card.'
It was dangerous if the battle dragged on any longer.
Even if he defeated Skal here, Gunr was still left, and
Even if he defeated Gunr, he would have to face Eir.
In the process, some of Tae-hyun's forces would surely be annihilated.
'It's not a good picture.'
Not only did he push back the magic power of Predation, but he also stuck the Dragon Slayer Sword in his waist.
[What does this mean.]
"I want to talk."
[Are you still talking such nonsense….]
"The proposal I am making from now on is not as the contractor of Great Duke Rozaria, but as the key of the King of the Lower Realm, Kim Tae-hyun."
[…….]
How sweet was the bait of the King of the Lower Realm.
It did not take long to persuade the two Valkyries who were not eating anything.
It was when Devlin was using the Blood Blossom and Eir was using the Spear of Longinus to aim for each other's lives.
"I'll say it again. No matter how much we engage in a full-scale war, we will all be annihilated. Rozaria and Igmun will lose their main forces, and in the end, Yormungandr will be the final winner."
[Bullshit.]
[Nonsense.]
[No need to listen.]
[We will also use the Blood Blossom.]
Four other Highest Species who had been watching the situation stood next to Devlin and Verona.
From them, he could feel their resolute will to burn their lives to the end rather than be played by that snake-like tongue here.
[…….]
Only Verona quietly remained silent.
She looked at the others who were excited and faced the situation head-on.
Devlin's Blood Blossom would last only 20 minutes at best.
If she were to disappear immediately after that, their battle situation would falter once again.
On the other hand, the Valkyries and Kim Tae-hyun's party still had their full strength.
Her gaze turned to Gilfer among the group.
[To bring in a Great Demon….]
She did not know how Tae-hyun had brought in Belzebub's elite forces, the ancient Great Demon, as a member of his party.
One thing was certain.
If they engaged in a full-scale war like this, they would suffer the greatest losses.
Conversely, Kim Tae-hyun and Devlin.
What if they only decided the match between the two of them?
If they could only get Kim Tae-hyun.
They could overturn the current situation in an instant.
It was not a battle they could not accept.
No matter what tricks Kim Tae-hyun used.
Devlin now was an ancient Great Demon.
She had the power to overwhelm even the Valkyrie in front of her, who was evaluated to be on par with them.
[Devlin.]
[Have you made a decision.]
[…….]
There was no need for long words.
[If you thought so, then that's probably right. It's better this way.]
Devlin's red eyes towards Tae-hyun showed a fierce murderous intent.
[Arrogant human. Go ahead and use that great power of yours.]
"Excellent choice."
Ting.
[Skill Ruler of Desire (SSS) has been activated. Specifying the target.]
Puhaaak.
Deep blue magic power swept through the area.
The law of the jungle, that the winner takes all, had been established.
At the same time.
Devlin swung two Blood Swords.
Clang!! Clang!! Clang!!
His hands, blocking with the Dragon Slayer Sword, were numb.
'Blood Blossom, was it. She must have overwhelmed the Valkyrie with that power.'
Just like Skal.
Tae-hyun was an existence that was difficult to handle with orthodox methods.
If so.
Ting.
[Skill Blood Rampage (SSS) has been activated. A huge power awakens.]
[Skill Heart of the Great Demon (SSS) has been activated.]
Kiiiiing.
Along with the blood-red magic power.
A huge magic stone was created in his body.
"It's not like I can't do it, right?"
Okay, here's the translation:
Chapter 372
Blood Flower
The name of the technique Taehyun was trying to imitate.
'There's no reason I can't do it.'
While not as good as Devlin's, Taehyun could also use 'Blood Frenzy'.
And while not comparable to the power of absorption, Taehyun could also absorb the magic of the Blood Field.
He could also create magic stones using the 'Great Demon's Heart'.
The third heart could be replaced with another skill.
'The game is about stamina, not output.'
Furthermore, Taehyun had the advantage over her, whose power was diminishing with each passing moment.
Devlin, realizing his intention, spat out a curse.
[You goddamn bastard....]
Blood Flower was a power belonging to Igmun's kin.
A power granted to only a select few.
For a human to mimic it.
And Taehyun, who wasn't even a formal contractor, dared to imitate it, enraging Devlin.
But in the end, it was just imitation.
[That's not going to be enough...]
"This alone won't be enough, will it?"
[Skill Energy Drain (SSS) has been activated. Target is specified.]
[Skill Energy Compose (SSS) has been activated. Form is specified.]
He extracted magic power from the seven elders he had marked in advance.
Red, white, black, green, blue, gold, and silver.
Seven orbs representing the seven clans.
Those powers, not yet in their complete form, floated around Taehyun in the shape of orbs.
[Skill Primal Element (SSS) has been activated. A great power awakens.]
His physical stats skyrocketed, and his body began to tremble.
His body couldn't handle the increase in strength, stamina, speed, and magic power.
[Skill Demonification (SSS) has been activated. A great power awakens.]
His firm muscles transformed into something monstrous like those of the Demon race, bulking up considerably.
The massive hardware perfectly accommodated the sharply increased stats.
"Now it feels like I can actually do something."
From Taehyun's body emanated crimson magic and brown magic.
The scent of the Giant and Dragon races permeated the air.
[You crazy mongrel...]
Contrary to her words, Devlin couldn't hide her astonishment.
She sensed power from Taehyun's body comparable to her own when using Blood Flower.
Just how many Archduke's powers had he used with a human body?
How could he concentrate that much power in a mere human body?
She, one of the top Vampires, could only contain that much power at the risk of her life.
Kim Taehyun.
He seemed to have no such risk.
A mere insect.
Had obtained such power?
For a very long time.
She had lived a life of dominating those who were different from birth.
She had only been defeated by Igmun, and had been recognized by him to rise to a higher position.
She was feeling jealousy for the first time in her life.
Crunch.
Rage surged at the deprivation of the key's existence.
Taehyun was also surprised.
'I can't devour her even with this much?'
Just like Skar, the current Devlin was also not someone Taehyun could completely devour.
As her power drained away, the possibility was increasing, but.
At least for now, complete devouring was impossible.
Blood Field.
The influence of the barrier deployed by Igmun, filling it with life force, was significant.
'I have to weaken the field's power.'
Only then could he secure a definite victory.
Taehyun used 'Energy Drain' on the Blood Field.
[You dare lay your hands on my lord's power!!]
Devlin shouted.
The Blood Sword and Dragonslaying Sword clashed countless times, distorting space.
'It's manageable.'
Despite receiving the attacks head-on, he wasn't losing his grip on the sword as he had before.
Clang. Clang. Clang. Claang.
How many times had they cut and stabbed each other?
Suddenly, using her wings, Devlin soared into the air.
Right below the Blood Field.
There, as if she were a judge, she was creating a cross-shaped Blood Sword.
"Come down."
Ding.
[Skill Aura of the Knight King (SSS) has been activated.]
[Skill Aura of the Monarch (SSS) has been activated.]
[Skill Chains of Entrapment (SSS) has been activated.]
The three skills succeeded in stopping her movement for a brief moment.
Taehyun threw the Dragonslaying Sword.
Clang!! Thwack!!
The arm that deflected the Dragonslaying Sword twisted grotesquely, and just as it was about to begin recovering.
The seven orbs, launched by Taehyun's will, surrounded Devlin's body.
"Die."
The moment he clenched his fist.
Bang!! Kaboom!!
A chain of explosions erupted.
The orbs themselves were nothing short of massive magic power.
For Taehyun, they were the perfect batteries.
For Devlin, they were bombs.
Thud.
Devlin bent her wings and landed directly on the ground.
Her battered body was surrounded by crimson magic, regenerating rapidly.
"I wouldn't call it super-speed regeneration anymore."
Taehyun watched her regeneration and said that.
He saw it through his enhanced 'Eye of the Apex Predator'.
The cracks on the surface of the first of the three magic stones inside her body.
'At most, 10 minutes.'
If he just stalled for time, Devlin would self-destruct.
Crunch. Crunch. Crunch.
Crunch!!
Devlin couldn't suppress her anger and trembled.
She had thought it would take only seconds to tear Taehyun to shreds.
But the unexpected power had delayed her.
That she, using Blood Flower, would be killed by a human using Blood Flower?
That was nonsense.
Taehyun didn't miss Devlin's shaking red eyes.
He was already adept at psychological warfare with Apex Predators.
He could tell what she was thinking just by looking at her trembling body.
"Don't worry. I won't dispose of you in such a manner, even as an example."
[Don't say another word...]
As Devlin's body fully recovered, Taehyun's lips curled upwards.
The moment he had been waiting for all along.
The weakened Blood Field and Devlin's body had become devourable.
Devlin was burning all of her remaining life force with a menacing murderous intent.
Just how much power had she absorbed?
Compared to the state when Igmun first deployed it, the Blood Field had almost disappeared.
"Thank you. You saved me the trouble of dealing with you directly."
Ding.
[Skill Apocalypse (SSS) has been activated.]
Hwaaaaah.
Darkness descended on the area.
'Apocalypse'. 'Blood Frenzy'. 'Primal Element'. 'Great Demon's Heart'. 'Demonification'. 'Energy Drain'.
All skills were functioning without issue.
Taehyun reached out his hand.
Whoosh.
The Dragonslaying Sword flew into his hand and was grasped.
Into the sword, which contained that absolute power, Taehyun infused Beelzebub's magic power.
Crackle. Crackle.
Holding a sword more venomous than ever, he walked towards Devlin.
A Blood Sword had materialized in Devlin's hand.
It was different from before.
She had poured all the magic power from one of her magic stones into the weapon for a final attack.
There was no need for a grand exchange of blows.
Give flesh, take bone.
Thwack.
Thwack.
The two swords pierced each other's bodies.
Thanks to the Dragonscale Armor, he avoided a fatal wound, but it didn't mean much.
Because Devlin's absorption power was beginning to drain Taehyun's life force.
Taehyun also enhanced his 'Energy Drain' in response.
Heh heh heh.
Devlin let out a laugh as she faced the moment of death.
[I admit it, Kim Taehyun. Your use of power is definitely beyond what I expected. This noble will perish here, but.]
Whooosh.
Blood never seen before swirled from Devlin's body.
She had poured another magic stone into a technique.
The scent of blood emanating from the Blood Sword was no longer a fragrance.
[You will live as Igmun-nim's dog.]
Like a black hole.
A massive blood gate began to devour Taehyun's body.
As if the power she used was the only legitimate one.
She intended to trample Taehyun with the power of absorption.
Such infinite pride in a single power.
Such a gamble on that pride, betting her life.
An attitude worthy of respect, but her opponent was not a good one.
He saw it.
Now was the perfect opportunity to completely devour Devlin.
"Winning is the power of the king."
Taehyun sentenced her to death.
Ding.
[Unique Skill Devour (SSS) has been activated. Target is specified.]
Crackkk.
A huge maw opened.
[...!!]
Before Devlin could even shout anything.
Crunch.
The maw of Devouring swallowed its prey.
That was the end.
The five remaining after Devlin's demise showed their respective reactions.
[Devlin...!!]
[Crazy...]
[Verona!! Are you just going to stand by and watch!!]
[Use Blood Flower!!]
[......]
Taehyun dispelled Apocalypse and revealed himself.
The magic power consumption and fatigue from the previous battle were considerable, but.
There would be no more battles with them.
"Freeze. According to the contract, you are mine."
Deep azure magic power surrounded them.
He felt the irresistible momentum of the power of Desire.
Verona was the first to realize the situation.
[What are you going to do?]
Was he going to use their lives to intimidate Igmun?
If that was his intention, he was wrong.
Verona was racking her brain to escape the current situation.
Her efforts were rendered futile as Taehyun shook his head.
"There was a prior engagement."
Only then did Taehyun look at the Valkyries who had been watching the battle.
Gunr's and Skar's eyes were strange.
"Take them. They are yours now."
Igmun's top kin.
As if they were mere objects, Taehyun spoke.
[We... accept.]
Skar forced a calm expression and answered.
And.
[From now on, we will fulfill the contract with Kim Taehyun.]
Radiance poured from the bodies of the three Valkyries.
[What is the meaning of this!!]
Verona raised her voice, which was rare.
She had thought Taehyun would negotiate with them as a condition.
But to hand them over to the Valkyries without any negotiation?
"The Valkyries came to the lower realm to gather information, right?"
Taehyun continued as if it were obvious.
"So I decided to sell out the Vampire race."
[...!!]
"You are all Apex Predators, so you will be of considerable value to them."
[Are you crazy!! Just for that, those things...]
"I also promised to open a gate that would allow them to escape from here."
[......]
Everyone knew that Taehyun could create gates.
Originally, the Valkyries' goal was to understand the situation in the lower realm.
In addition to that, he offered Igmun's kin, who could analyze the power.
Was that all?
He promised to create a passage to escape from the Archdukes.
None other than the King of the Lower World's key, using the power of the Great Demon.
Gunr and Skar had no reason to refuse the offer.
The Apex Predators, who had become the sacrifice of this absurd negotiation, began to shout.
What would he gain by doing that?
He would not be able to become the winner of this bet unless he took their lives in the end.
It was then.
Gunr, Eir, Skar.
Feathers were created in their hands along with radiance.
[Rune... Fragments!!]
Verona frowned.
To the Valkyries, runes were like magic stones for monsters.
To receive that meant.
In another sense, it also meant taking the lives of the Celestial Race.
The Apex Predators, including Verona, trembled and raised their magic power to stop the action.
But it wasn't easy because the power of Desire was working.
"It's my victory."
At the same time as Taehyun declared.
Rustle. Rustle. Russsstle.
Thousands of Blood Swords were created in the area.
An unusual magic power was felt from each one.
Boom.
A blonde man appeared in front of Taehyun.
Vampire Lord Igmun.
His face was distorted like that of a murderous demon.
[I will kill you, Kim Taehyun.]
The Valkyries instinctively used radiance to cover their bodies.
"Igmun. Breaking a contract is a great sin."
[Don't give me that crap...]
"A promise is a heavy thing."
Ding.
[Skill Ruler of Desire (SSS) has been activated. Target is coerced.]
Deep azure magic power surrounded Taehyun and Igmun.
"You are mine."
To Taehyun's words.
Ding.
['Oath of Summoning: Igmun' has been made.]
[The magic power of Summon Skill Igmun (SSS) is changed.]
[The magic power of Skill Blood Frenzy (SSS) is changed.]
'It's done!!'
Behind the message.
He saw Igmun's Blood Sword being swung at his neck.
Just before the Blood Sword reached Taehyun's body.
Squish.
A sticky lump of tentacles blocked Taehyun's path.
[It seems like this lady has to step in.]
Regenerating the severed tentacles.
Rosaria wore a benevolent expression.
373
[Contractor. Truly a dirty method.]
"Is that a compliment?"
[Ah ha ha ha.]
Rosaria laughed and swung her tentacles.
In response, Igmun's blood sword shredded Rosaria's tentacles.
Unlike before, the cut areas were not regenerating properly.
'It's dangerous for Rosaria to be alone after all.'
This is Igmun's domain.
He must have taken all possible measures in preparation for a battle between the archdukes.
It was only natural that Rosaria was being pushed back.
'Intervening now would only be a hindrance.'
Taehyun judged after checking his own condition.
It wasn't just because he had used up most of his power in the battle with Devlin.
In addition to the stats that rose after devouring her, there were considerable changes in his body after making the Summoning Oath with Igmun.
Crimson magic was writhing inside his body, struggling against other magic.
It was a situation that had happened when he accepted the magic of other archdukes.
The only difference was that it was more difficult to handle, as it was forced by the authority of Desire.
'I can suppress it now.'
Taehyun controlled the magic that seemed ready to backfire and turned his gaze to the three Valkyries.
He still had promises to keep with them.
Using 'Apostle of the Gate' was possible with a little rest.
But he regretted their power, all of whom were Great Demons.
"Do you have any intention of taking Igmun with you? If you want, I'll cooperate to the best of my ability."
Taehyun asked casually, and the Valkyries showed the reaction he expected.
[...]
[Are you crazy....]
[We... will be satisfied with these guys. Keep your last promise.]
It meant they didn't want to get involved in this battle any longer, so open the gate.
"That's a shame."
Taehyun said, taking out potions from his belt.
Top-grade healing potion, fatigue potion, magic potion.
They were made by the Alchemist with a special combination just for Taehyun.
In addition, tearing a few scrolls significantly reduced the internal backflow.
Even so, Verona and the other top-tier species revealed their fighting spirit.
But each time, the deep cyan magic constricted them.
It would have been different if he had used Bloodflower from the beginning.
Because they kept refusing the contract, their backflow was progressing, and they were not in good condition.
"Needlessly energetic."
Tting.
[Skill Energy Drain (SSS) has been activated. Target is specified.]
[Skill Chains of Binding (SSS) has been activated. Target is specified.]
Five chains were embedded in the top-tier species who were struggling desperately.
Tsuzzz.
The crimson magic they emitted was absorbed into Taehyun.
[You son of a bitch!!]
[You...!!]
[Kim Taehyun....]
[Don't... underestimate us!!]
[...]!!
The five top-tier species pulled up their fighting spirit to the very end.
Clearly, the authority of Desire was at work.
But their resistance was not insignificant.
Ugh.
The backflow of magic that he had tried to suppress became severe again.
'These guys aren't normal either. I'll suppress them all at once.'
The moment Taehyun was about to enhance the skill.
Tting.
[A portion of the giant magic has been absorbed. A great power awakens.]
[A new skill True Blood (SSS) has been registered.]
'......!!'
Only Taehyun noticed the change that had occurred in his body.
The magic of the archdukes, which had been mixed up inside his body, began to rearrange itself.
He could see that their resistance had sped up the time it took to digest Igmun's magic.
"How grateful."
The authority of Igmun was absorbed.
There was no need to check the status window.
Tting.
[Skill True Blood (SSS) has been activated.]
Kwakwakwakwa.
Kiiiiing.
Next to the magic stone made from the heart of the Great Demon.
Another magic stone began to be created.
"......!!"
This time, it wasn't just Taehyun who felt the change.
The red eyes of the five top-tier species shook at the power that was being emitted beyond the flesh.
The Valkyries seemed to be shocked as well.
[...]!!
[How could....]
[A human... like that....]
Eir's reaction was the most impressive.
The power of Devlin, Bloodflower, which had made her struggle.
Taehyun's current state was not imitating that power through various skills.
It was really Bloodflower itself.
It was a tense tug-of-war.
But in an instant, the initiative was passed to Taehyun.
"It's time to be punished."
Tting.
[Skill Apostle of the Gate (SSS) has been activated. Location is not specified. Coordinates are not searched.]
A medium-sized gate was created.
It was an ordinary movement gate with no coordinates entered.
"Is this enough?"
[Of course.]
A chain of radiance was created in Skal's hand.
The created chain instantly bound the five top-tier species, including Verona.
[This ends the contract, Kim Taehyun.]
"Too bad."
As Taehyun said goodbye, Gunne and Skal, Eir tried to push the monsters into the gate.
[Contractor!!]
Taehyun hurriedly dodged at Rosaria's urgent cry.
To that spot.
Swaeak!!
A giant blood sword passed by.
"......!!"
By a hair's breadth, the blood sword was embedded in Skal's chest.
[Cough....]
[Skal!!]
Gunne tried to pull out the blood sword that had pierced Skal's armor.
But just by grabbing it.
Tsuzzzzzz.
[...]!!
The magic embedded in the blood sword absorbed the radiance of the two Valkyries.
Gunne hurriedly released the sword.
[No one. Can escape from this lord's domain.]
It was an ominous and eerie voice.
Igmun approached, emitting a fierce murderous intent.
He had finally broken through Rosaria's defense line.
Now that the bet was over, the archduke had no reason to spare the Valkyries.
Especially if those Valkyries were trying to take his top-tier subordinates with them.
[Igmun....]
[Damn monster....]
Gunne and Eir emitted radiance.
The Holy Spear Longinus was held in their hands.
Taehyun also quickly retreated with the Dragon Slayer Sword in hand.
But as if not interested in that attitude.
Thud. Thud. Thud.
Igmun passed them and looked down at his subordinates, who were entangled in chains of radiance.
They did not dare to look Igmun in the eye and lowered their red eyes.
[Verona. Turan. Balzac. Loven. Shula. Raise your heads.]
[Lord of Blood....]
[We will atone for our sins with death.]
They acknowledged their mistakes and waited for punishment.
Not only were they manipulated by another archduke, but their subordinates were also manipulated by mere humans.
If it had been the usual Igmun, he would have beheaded them with a blood sword in an instant.
[This lord has not yet granted you death.]
Sss.
The deep cyan magic was absorbed into Igmun.
By merely emitting his authority, he had broken the Desire spell.
[Go. Go and bring the heads of those damn Valkyries.]
Puhwaaaak.
Once again, the Blood Field unfolded.
The four top-tier species pounced on Skal, who was on the verge of death, and the two Valkyries who were holding the Holy Spear.
It was no longer important to save their lives.
They felt the enthusiasm to offer their heads even if it meant using Bloodflower.
Igmun turned around and met Taehyun's red eyes.
[Kim Taehyun. You are testing this lord's patience.]
"Patience. An important virtue."
[Contractor.]
Rosaria came and stood next to Taehyun.
It seemed like the battle had been fierce.
Her body was battered everywhere.
"Looks dangerous."
[Humph. It's not that bad. The contractor doesn't look normal either.]
She asked worriedly at the crimson magic emanating from Taehyun's body.
She knew.
That the magic of the archduke was not something that could be accepted in a short period of time.
No matter how much power the key had, a human was still a human.
If he didn't control it perfectly, it wouldn't end with just backflow.
That was when.
[Fuh heh heh.]
Jormungandr walked out from inside the Blood Temple.
[Kim Taehyun. You've ruined the stage in a truly unexpected way.]
[Contractor, step back.]
Rosaria hid Taehyun behind her.
Against two archdukes.
Taehyun would only be a hindrance right now.
"Just hold on a little longer."
Until Typhon could be summoned.
Rosaria knew what that meant.
Her tentacles surged as if answering.
[Rosaria. If you fight Igmun here, all those precious tentacles will wither.]
[Stop talking nonsense.]
Rosaria reacted as if she didn't care.
[I have to keep my promise.]
Jormungandr's Odd Eye flashed.
At the same time.
Tting.
['Summoning Oath: Jormungandr' has been made.]
[The magic power of the summon skill Jormungandr (SSS) is changing.]
'This is....'
The message wasn't over.
[I'll give you a gift.]
Tting.
[Skill Blood Rampage (SSS) has been changed to skill Deep Sea Rampage (SSS).]
[Skill Eye of the Top Tier Species (SSS) has been changed to Eye of the Watcher (SSS).]
"......!!"
The backflow of magic that he had barely suppressed occurred once again.
It felt like a giant wave of magic was stirring inside his body.
[Keh heh. Don't worry. I'll deal with Igmun appropriately.]
Jormungandr, who said that, unleashed blue magic.
In the Blood Temple.
The Sea of Magic was summoned.
[What a mess.]
Erebus evaluated as he watched the battle between the three archdukes.
Rosaria and Jormungandr were receiving Igmun, who was attacking like a berserker, and were barely maintaining balance.
[Brother. It's best not to get involved in that gap.]
Erebus said that sincerely.
He was worried.
That Taehyun might disappear by showing off his recklessness.
Taehyun, who was sitting cross-legged, did not have the leeway to answer as he was controlling the magic of Igmun and Jormungandr, which were colliding inside.
Gilfel, who had been quietly watching the situation, opened her mouth.
[Kim Taehyun. It seems like this is the end of this devil's company.]
Taehyun nodded with his eyes closed.
Gilfel was still a Great Demon belonging to Beelzebub's group.
If she got involved any further, it would be insufficient to explain it even under the pretext of information gathering as a Great Demon.
Chwaak.
Gilfel spread her giant wings.
[Good luck.]
She quickly left the Blood Temple.
Only Erebus and the seven elders remained.
They waited for Taehyun's backflow to subside, without taking their eyes off the battle between the Valkyries and the four top-tier species.
10 minutes.
That was the time it took for Taehyun to forcibly suppress the backflow.
[Brother. What are you going to do?]
Erebus asked again.
"The battle is suspended. None of you need to get involved in either side's fight."
The elders let out a sigh of relief.
Even for the elders, this ridiculous scale of battle was enough to consider it fortunate that they had saved their own lives.
[What about you, brother?]
"My situation is a little different."
Taehyun grabbed the Dragon Slayer Sword.
Pajijik.
Lightning flowed and 'The Element of Origin' was activated.
"Before I call Typhon, should I test it out first."
The newly acquired power.
[You're crazy. Even if Father was here, he couldn't guarantee victory against those guys....]
Erebus swallowed those words.
Taehyun knew what that meant.
"If possible, I'd prefer the expression 'challenging'."
Tting.
[Skill Energy Drain (SSS) has been activated.]
Taehyun once again inserted the magic chains into the seven elders who had barely recovered their energy.
As if resigned now.
The seven elders did not reject Taehyun's skill.
Kiiii-
With a shattering roar, seven orbs were created.
It was a technology that was possible thanks to the devotion of the seven elders, who coughed and spared no magic.
[Brother, you are a truly cruel human.]
Erebus muttered, thinking that he was lucky that he wasn't a dragon and that he could maintain the position of brother.
Episode 374
Igmun unfolds his Blood Field.
Its power grew stronger and stronger.
Amplified in sync with the barrier set up in the Blood Temple, it was being used as if it were in his original castle.
[A naggingly numbing power.]
[I agree.]
Jormungandr and Rosaria, maintaining a united front, assessed the power that was binding them.
The tentacles Rosaria summoned through the subspace gate lost their vitality and drooped, and the demon sea summoned by Jormungandr was virtually evaporated by the blood-red magic.
How overwhelming was the power of a Great Duke who held the advantage of the domain.
Everyone was witnessing that fact.
Was that all?
As Igmun's power grew stronger, so too did the power of the highest-ranking species, who could be said to be his vassals, transcend their limits.
Verona, Turan, Balzac, Loven, Schula.
They were engaging in combat with the Valkyries Gunnr and Eir, who wielded the Spear of Longinus.
Incredibly, having accepted Igmun's rampaging power, they were using power similar to Bloodflower's without risking their lives.
Valkyrie Skal, who had been in a near-death state from Igmun's attack, had long since become a cold corpse.
[Jormungandr. How about unleashing your true form?]
Rosaria suggested to Jormungandr, who still had not revealed his true form.
If he revealed his true form, the demon sea would not evaporate so futilely, nor would Igmun's Blood Field have such a massive impact.
Yet, Jormungandr merely maintained his human form, only revealing a single tail of a giant serpent, and his authority, Rampage, was only enough to offset the 'Blood Rampage' used by Igmun.
[Even if I were to reveal my true form, I wouldn't need to risk my life, would I?]
Jormungandr said with a bitter smile.
As if he wouldn't engage in a losing business.
Rosaria clicked her tongue at his sly attitude.
If it were other Great Dukes, they would have flaunted their pride and used their authority and power without reservation.
But Jormungandr was not the type to act so simply.
At that moment.
Swish.
Igmun's blood sword severed Jormungandr's tail.
Blood gushed from the severed cross-section.
It was one of Igmun's techniques to hinder ultra-fast regeneration.
Unless Rosaria cut off her tentacles, the bleeding would continue.
However, Jormungandr's tail was created using most of the magic that a clone could wield.
To sever it here meant that the clone could no longer mount a meaningful attack.
[Oh dear. It seems I'm done for here. I'll have to leave the cleanup to you.]
[You serpentine fellow. You're a character who doesn't know responsibility.]
[Hehehe. Don't worry. I'm not planning on just taking it either.]
Quarararara.
Blue magic surged from Jormungandr's body.
Instead of cutting off his tail, he decided to use the remaining magic to use his authority on his body.
Dddddddd.
A different tremor than before occurred in his body.
Rosaria hurriedly moved away from Jormungandr.
It was because she confirmed that the magic seething within his body was ominous.
Only Igmun, with the blood sword in hand like that of an executioner, approached Jormungandr.
Towards Jormungandr, who was constantly vibrating.
Stab.
Igmun plunged the blood sword in.
Blue magic was sucked in through the blood sword.
[Cough… Hehehe… Igmun is excited.]
[Did you think you could reach this noble being with just a puppet?]
Tzzzzzz.
Jormungandr's blue magic quickly subsided.
[True rampage takes the form of an explosion.]
Jormungandr's lips twisted bitterly.
And.
Rampage and Absorption.
The moment the two authorities clashed head-on.
Bang!!!
A massive explosion occurred.
Even before the aftermath of the explosion had subsided.
Swoosh. Swoosh.
Rosaria's tentacles were wielded.
With each swing, a purple air pressure that seemed to tear the atmosphere covered the site of the explosion.
Clearly, a massive explosion was still ongoing.
But within it, Igmun was confirmed to be safe.
Clang. Clang. Bang.
Igmun nonchalantly deflected Rosaria's attacks by wielding his blood sword.
As the traces of blue magic completely disappeared.
Igmun, battered and bruised, revealed himself within it.
[That damn snake bastard….]
One arm had disappeared due to the impact of the explosion.
Originally, it was an injury that would have been more than healed in an instant with ultra-fast regeneration.
But.
Drip. Drop.
Instead of blood, Jormungandr's demon sea was falling from where the blood should have been.
Just as Igmun had done to Jormungandr.
Jormungandr was also using his magic to hinder Igmun's ultra-fast regeneration.
Of course, that time would not be long.
[Igmun. You're a sight to behold.]
Rosaria provoked, spreading purple magic.
Unlike Jormungandr, Rosaria was in her true form from the start.
Not only the magic that could be used.
The power of the authorities that could be used was also incomparable.
She had been hiding it all along when Jormungandr was present, unsure of what might happen.
But now that he had vanished, it was no longer the time to conserve power.
[Does a lowly succubus dare to mingle words with this noble being?]
The purple magic mixed in with Rosaria's words scratched at Igmun's nerves.
Mind control.
She was using her authority by imbuing it in her voice.
[This lady also does not wish to mingle words with a vampire.]
Hahahahaha.
Rosaria's laughter shook the Blood Field.
A shockwave even greater than when she wielded her tentacles swept through the area.
[A mere servant does not know her place….]
Tzzzz.
A new blood sword was created in Igmun's hand.
Its size was no different from before.
But the compressed power had a different attribute than before.
The power of sealing.
It was a technique that all Great Dukes shunned.
[You've brought out a fearsome weapon.]
Igmun moved without answering.
With each step he took, Rosaria's authority dug into his mind.
There was only one way to block the attack.
To cut out her tongue and eyes, eliminating the means by which the authority of mind control could be manifested.
But Rosaria would not stand still until then.
[Hahahaha. You're hurrying because you're afraid Jormungandr will bring his true form?]
Rosaria also knew that Jormungandr would not have retreated willingly.
He was sure that Rosaria would not be able to defeat Igmun.
And as soon as she disappeared, he would likely lead the troops he had prepared and storm in.
If he obtained Taehyun in doing so.
He would have lost the bet, but ultimately become the final winner.
[This noble being fears no one.]
Igmun spat out as if chewing, finally reaching Rosaria.
[The King would be very pleased to hear that.]
[……!!]
The blood sword containing the power of sealing was wielded.
At that moment.
Parzuck.
Clang!!
Taehyun, wielding the Dragonslaying Sword, deflected Igmun's blood sword.
From the appearance of revealing fierce fighting spirit, it could be seen that he had achieved new growth in that short time.
[Have you already mastered mana?]
"Given the situation."
Taehyun said briefly, drawing up mana.
"What are the odds?"
His physical abilities were maximized more than ever with all kinds of skills.
Even so.
[It will not be even 20%.]
Rosaria spoke the cold reality.
"There's no point in dragging this out any longer."
There was a super-large gate that Jormungandr had created.
That special gate would surely be able to penetrate Igmun's barrier and summon a Great Duke.
Tring.
[The Summon skill Typhon (SSS) has been activated.]
[Locating the position.]
Taehyun focused mana towards the super-large gate.
Along with the feeling of powerlessness, he felt the mana that had been filling his body evaporate.
At the same time.
A giant body filling the super-large gate.
The Giant King revealed himself.
[Rosaria~!!]
I, the true body, have come.
Rosaria sighed as she looked at Typhon's roaring appearance.
Rosaria, who holds the lowest seat among the current Great Dukes.
Kim Taehyun, who was chosen by the Lower World King with a inferior human body.
And Typhon, the former Great Duke who was defeated and disgraced by the alliance of Orgal and Jormungandr.
Igmun laughed as he looked at the three beings blocking him.
[A gathering of losers.]
As if he had no interest in Igmun's reaction, Typhon was focused on examining Rosaria's condition.
[Rosaria!! Who dares to touch your skin?!!]
[Are those uselessly large eyes just for decoration? Isn't he right in front of you?]
[How dare a lowly incubus!!]
[This lady is a succubus, though?]
[Oh… This true body has misspoke.]
Taehyun, watching Typhon and Rosaria bickering, took a deep breath.
It was because summoning a Great Duke always came with a great burden, causing his head to throb.
'The Imaginary World was better.'
In the Imaginary World, he had summoned up to four Great Dukes.
On the other hand, with the current feeling, two would be the limit for Taehyun's level.
'If I don't think about the aftermath, maybe three would be possible.'
[Kim Taehyun. Don't struggle.]
"Looks like you're the one struggling."
Taehyun faced the evil aura that Igmun was creating.
It felt like the blood in his body would evaporate at any moment.
It felt like the blood in his entire body would burst through his skin at any moment.
While shaking off that pressure, Igmun gestured lightly.
The sky where the Blood Field was spread.
From there, a giant blood sword was driven down.
Crash!!
The blood sword was embedded in Typhon's back.
[Father!!]
Erebus, who was watching from afar, shouted.
Because the weakened Typhon that he knew could not easily shake off this level of impact.
However.
Whirr.
The flames that surged from Typhon's body annihilated the blood sword without a trace.
[Puhuhuhuhu.]
[…….]
Rosaria looked at Typhon, who was laughing, with strange eyes.
"Typhon. Are you alright?"
Taehyun asked.
[I'm more than alright!!]
[Ultra-fast regeneration has not returned yet. The odds have increased to 40%.]
Rosaria made a cold judgment once again.
"40% is enough."
Clang!!
Taehyun blocked Igmun's blood sword with the Dragonslaying Sword.
Taehyun's body was thrown back by that alone, losing his grip on the sword.
Typhon shook his giant body as he watched that scene.
[Contractor. You're showing an unsightly appearance.]
As soon as he finished speaking.
Pupuputuk.
Dozens of blood swords were embedded in Typhon's body.
The blood swords exploded, and the Giant King's flesh splattered everywhere.
[Concentrate, Typhon.]
Rosaria bought time by wielding her tentacles.
In that gap, Taehyun got up.
Even with Typhon's participation, it was only enough to block Igmun's attacks.
A decisive blow was needed.
'I'll build it up again from the beginning.'
Tring.
[The skill Demon Transformation (SSS) has been activated. Specifying the imitation area.]
[The skill True Blood (SSS) has been activated. A great power awakens.]
[The skill Devil's Saliva (SSS) has been activated. Specifying the location.]
[The skill Depths' Rampage (SSS) has been activated. A great power awakens.]
[The skill Origin's Element (SSS) has been activated. A great power awakens.]
The mana of the five Great Dukes dwelled in Taehyun's body.
Flapping blood-red wings.
Igmun was seen cutting Rosaria's waist and Typhon's legs.
Tring.
[The skill Dragon's Wrath (SSS) has been activated. Specifying the target.]
Krrr!!!
Igmun's movements, which had been continuing the attack, stopped due to the sudden force.
Taehyun stepped forward.
The Dragonslaying Sword and blood sword, imbued with enormous mana.
It was instantaneous that the two swords were unleashed.
Stab.
Stab.
[Contractor!!]
[What…!!]
The flustered voices of the two Great Dukes were clearly heard.
Even so.
Ignoring the blood sword that pierced his chest.
Taehyun took a step forward and faced Igmun's shaking red eyes.
"Who is your master?"
[……!!]
Tring.
[The skill Ataraxia (SSS) has been activated.]
Along with the purple magic.
"Answer me, vampire."
The King's authority was used.
Episode 375
He was confident that he could overcome any condition Yormungandr might set.
His attitude towards the Domain War.
His demeanor when mentioning the Underworld King.
The reason he sought the key.
If he could grasp these three things.
He could anticipate the actions the arrogant Archdukes would take to some extent.
Of course, the consumption of the Celestial race from the Upper Realm in this gamble was quite unexpected.
But ultimately, Taehyun had managed to strategize even that.
The problem was what came next.
The stance the defeated Archdukes would take after the summoning contract.
Hunting an Archduke in their own domain.
Originally, it was near impossible, but he wasn't without confidence.
If it was him now.
If he unleashed his power to the fullest and used his Authority.
He could help Rozaria and Typhon subdue at least one Archduke.
Even if that was impossible, he had a few more cards prepared.
The most notable being the summoning of Hazard.
Unlike Rozaria and Typhon, who were considered the weakest and had fallen from grace, Hazard was an Archduke who competed with Lucifer for the top spot.
Facing three Archdukes.
The opponent would have no choice but to prepare for annihilation.
However, all possibilities came with a certain amount of risk.
'Hazard is unlikely to show the same level of cooperation as Rozaria and Typhon.'
Just because they had a summoning contract didn't mean they had to fulfill each other's requests.
If Hazard attacked Rozaria and Typhon, everything would go awry.
The same was true for using doppelgangers and summoning other Archdukes.
That was why Taehyun had intervened in the battlefield where Rozaria and Typhon were holding out.
'Beastification' with Orgal's Authority.
'True Blood' with Igmun's Authority.
'Demon's Saliva' with Beelzebub's Authority.
'Abyssal Rampage' with Yormungandr's Authority.
'Primal Element' with Typhon's Authority.
'Dragon's Wrath' with Hazard's Authority.
One by one, the Archdukes' Authorities that Taehyun could use.
Were concentrated in his body and unleashed explosively.
And finally.
Tring.
[Skill Ataraxia (SSS) has been enhanced. Mana consumption is accelerated.]
The purple mana emanating from his body wrapped around Igmun even more strongly.
"I'll ask again."
Who is your master?
Crack.
Beneath Igmun's motionless feet, the jaws of Devourment revealed themselves.
Crunch!!
The jaws closing and Igmun moving his body happened simultaneously.
Igmun grimaced as he watched the jaws of Devourment chew on his blood sword.
Conversely.
[Puhahahahaha.]
Typhon burst into laughter.
[Contractor... This power is...]
Rozaria was at a loss for words as she looked at the mixed Archduke's mana in Taehyun's body.
She had served the King more closely than anyone else.
What she was seeing now was one of the techniques the King had shown to control the Archdukes.
Authority Concentration.
Taehyun was imitating that technique, albeit imperfectly.
And instinctively.
[You're becoming more of a monster.]
Typhon said with a giggle.
It wasn't wrong.
Their contractor had temporarily transcended his tier.
[Of course, I still need to help, though.]
Clang.
Rozaria deflected the blood sword that Igmun had thrown at Taehyun.
[Haa... Haaak...]
Igmun, who had shaken off Ataraxia, gasped for breath.
His breathing was disordered?
[This... crazy...]
Igmun swallowed his curse.
It was hard to believe or admit.
His consciousness had been cut off for only a moment.
In that brief moment.
He, an Archduke.
He, the main body.
Had been defeated by the Authority used by a mere key?
Rozaria, who knew that fact, burst into laughter.
[AHAHAHAHA. Serves you right, Igmun!!]
[Kuhahahahaha. I love you, Rozaria.]
[......]
Ptooey.
Igmun, thinking he was being mocked, spat.
The blood that had flowed down from all over the Blood Field solidified into the shape of a cross.
Thousands of blood swords began their bombardment.
[You're playing dirty tricks!!]
Typhon shouted and unleashed his Authority.
Fire and ice formed lumps and exploded.
The earth was overturned, and lightning and typhoons exploded against the blood swords.
It was like watching a collision of disasters.
Clang!!
Taehyun, who had closed the distance, crossed swords with Igmun.
Crunch.
He covered the Dragonslayer Sword with the mana of Devourment.
Each time the swords clashed, the jaws of Devourment gnawed at the blood sword.
Fragments of Rozaria's tentacles splattered on the cross of blood falling from the sky.
Tsssssssss.
Blood Field.
Once again, that immense power unfolded around Igmun.
'Apocalypse' was instantly absorbed into the crimson mana.
A giant barrier was created, trapping only Taehyun and Igmun.
[Contractor!!]
Ignoring Rozaria's cry.
He once again covered his entire body in mana.
Dragonscale Armor, Stone Skin, and all other methods of enhancing the body were useless in the face of Igmun's Authority.
Without backing down.
'He confronts it.'
Pajijijijijik.
He thrust the Dragonslayer Sword, spewing lightning, into Igmun's chest.
Once again.
"Look into my eyes, Igmun."
Tsssssssss.
Purple mana scattered and 'Ataraxia' was used.
Suddenly.
Swish!!
Thorns that appeared out of nowhere swept past his eyes.
"......!!"
[Did you think such petty tricks would work again!!]
Pupu pupupuk.
Five blood swords pierced Taehyun's limbs.
Chiiiiiiii.
Five fingernails pierced the Dragonscale Armor and dug into his chest.
Crack!!
The magic crystal made from the 'Greater Demon's Heart' shattered in his hand.
Cough.
Taehyun vomited blood.
Bang. Bang. Bang. Bang.
Outside, Rozaria's tentacles and Typhon's fists were striking the barrier.
The barrier only shook and suffered no significant damage.
Time seemed to be flowing slowly.
Igmun used his Authority 'Absorption.'
Tsssssssss.
Mana of all natures was sucked out of Taehyun's body.
"Cough..."
Tring.
[Skill True Blood (SSS) has been enhanced. Mana consumption is accelerated.]
Kiiiiiii-
The heart created by Igmun's Authority.
Began to suck back the mana that was escaping from his body.
Before he knew it, the jaws of Devourment surrounded the two beings.
Igmun glared into Taehyun's red eyes.
Even though he had lost his sight.
Even though he clearly couldn't see his own appearance properly.
He didn't give up.
Even though super regeneration wasn't properly manifesting.
He still hadn't broken his spirit.
The actions he had failed to take in the past overlapped.
That's why even more so.
He felt nauseous.
[Do you think you can devour this noble one with such clumsy imitation!!]
Crack.
Igmun grabbed Taehyun's other heart in his hand.
A heart made of crimson mana.
If he pulled out only this, he wouldn't be able to use the Authority of Absorption.
And if he pulled out the last heart.
Kim Taehyun would meet his death without any further resistance.
His pride would be protected.
But the key arranged by the Underworld King would be shattered, and the Underworld would lose the upcoming race war with the Upper Realm.
Snap.
Igmun gritted his teeth.
That wouldn't do.
Above all, Kim Taehyun was now his contractor.
If he eliminated him here, he wouldn't be able to withstand the attacks of Rozaria and Typhon behind him with the risk.
Even if he somehow managed to withstand them.
He would be forced to kneel before Yormungandr's power that would come after.
[Did... did he foresee even this...]
Heh... heh heh....
Taehyun chuckled bitterly, spewing blood.
Crunch!!
The jaws of Devourment, which had been constantly looking for an opportunity, tore off and bit Igmun's hand.
With those ferocious jaws.
Stumbling.
Igmun stepped back.
[......]
Igmun stared at his hand, which was no longer regenerating.
He scanned his body, which was in tatters.
When exactly had he been cornered this far?
Tssssssss.
He created a blood sword in his only remaining hand.
He had won the battle.
But the result was no different from defeat.
Grip.
The hand holding the blood sword trembled.
Just for a moment.
Swoosh.
He swung the blood sword towards the Valkyries who were fighting his minions far away.
Tsssssssssss.
The moment a pool of blood seemed to form beneath their feet.
Thwack. Thwack.
Giant thorns pierced the hearts of the two Valkyries.
[......!!]
[......!!]
Gunnr and Eir.
The two Valkyries vomited blood with an expression of disbelief.
The radiance that had shone brilliantly was sucked into the thorns of blood.
Soon, five of the highest-ranking species tore the two Valkyries' bodies to pieces.
[Damn Kim Taehyun. Be more respectful when you summon next time.]
With those words.
Ssssssss.
Igmun's body melted into the blood and disappeared, dispelling the barrier.
The five highest-ranking species followed him.
Thud.
Taehyun collapsed into the pool of blood.
Rozaria and Typhon, who belatedly approached, made a fuss.
[Contractor, are you alright!!]
Rozaria asked, groping his body here and there.
"I feel like my whole body is falling apart."
This time, without feigning strength, Taehyun readily admitted.
Rozaria's tentacles stroked his head.
[Truly, you have become an admirable man.]
Purple mana settled into his empty body.
Typhon could only watch that scene.
[Ahem.]
With envious eyes.
The deepest part of the Abyss.
The Dragon Palace located in the middle of the Sea of Demons.
Yormungandr was watching the situation unfolding in the Temple of Blood through the gate.
[Is he growing this much?]
A light of admiration flashed across Yormungandr's face.
Kim Taehyun, the key chosen by the Underworld King.
Originally, it was a time when either his mind or his body should have collapsed.
Nevertheless, there were no signs of that in his 모습 when he fought Igmun.
He was completely controlling the power of the Archdukes he had obtained.
Controlling the power of other Archdukes was understandable.
But.
[He will even try to control this one's Authority.]
Hehehehe.
Yormungandr let out a vile laugh.
It wasn't because he was feeling good.
Rather, everything was deviating from the plan.
As someone who liked to be in control, he didn't like the situation.
His gaze focused again on the situation reflected by the gate.
For a moment, he broke Kim Taehyun's heart.
Igmun was admitting his defeat and retreating.
[Foolish vampire.]
Yormungandr criticized Igmun for not asserting his pride to the end.
By admitting his defeat, the fifty highest-ranking species he had prepared had become useless.
[Tch. He should have just filled his own desires as usual.]
Yormungandr's plan was as Igmun had anticipated.
He was planning to use the gate to attack the Temple of Blood as soon as Rozaria and Typhon were annihilated.
[What shall we do?]
Yormungandr's highest-ranking minion.
Among them, the one in charge of commanding the legion asked.
[Disband.]
[Understood.]
He relayed the order to the forty-nine minions who were waiting.
Instantly, they all scattered to their respective domains.
[The summoning contract.]
Yormungandr muttered, feeling the deep blue mana implanted in his body.
The Authority of the ancient Greater Demon Gorfer, Desire.
It was a spell created with that power.
He was even perfectly imitating the power of such a Greater Demon.
Kim Taehyun's growth using the Underworld King's power 'Devourment' had already surpassed Asmodeus.
No, Asmodeus, who had disappeared from his sight, might have obtained some other power.
[Hmm...]
He, who liked to calculate gains and losses, recalled the gains he had obtained from this battle.
He had naturally implanted the mana of Rampage in Kim Taehyun's body, and had also greatly weakened Igmun's forces.
He could also expect Odin's actions after losing three of his highest-ranking minions.
Who would be the one to devour the key in the end?
[There's no need to rush.]
No matter how the process goes.
Kim Taehyun will find out.
How miserable is the fate of accepting the power of the key.
[I wonder how he will accept this curse-like bondage. I'm looking forward to it.]
Okay, here's the translation to English:
Episode 376
Deepest part of the Abyss. Rozaria's main territory.
Taehyun was resting there.
The Seven Elders had extracted an excessive amount of magic power, so Taehyun, who had recovered his magic power, had to open the gate to the lair managed by Vigo.
If he were to wander around the deepest part in that state, he would likely be hunted by others.
Erebus and Typhon, who had returned to the main territory with him, had immediately returned to their abode, Terra, through the gate opened by Rozaria.
'Finally, it's a bit quiet.'
It was a series of dangerous battles.
Even the Valkyrie of the 7th Heavenly Realm, a member of the Celestial race, possessed unexpected power.
'Igmune.'
The sight of him revealing 'a portion' of his true power in his domain was worthy of the name Lord.
Taehyun still vividly remembered the feeling of Igmune grabbing his heart.
Taehyun instinctively groped his chest.
'If that guy was crazy enough to go into heat, he would have really killed me. Of course, that doppelganger wouldn't have stood still.'
Hand over the body, use the promised opportunity now.
He kept chattering throughout the battle.
If Taehyun hadn't exerted extreme concentration, the doppelganger might have caused him to lose the bet.
Feeling dizzy from that moment, he took a deep breath and lay down on the cold floor.
Rozaria had gone to order the top-tier species of each territory to prepare for a possible attack from the Grand Dukes.
He barely had time to enjoy the peace.
He opened the status window.
So many changes had occurred that he couldn't even remember when he had last opened the status window.
'I've surpassed All Stats 500 even in normal state.'
In particular, his magic power reached 700, so it seemed there would no longer be any issues with using skills simultaneously.
'Well, you never know what might happen in the future.'
Demon magic power is the minimum magic power required to activate skills.
Considering reusing or strengthening skills during battle, the more magic power, the better.
Since he couldn't use potions or scrolls during life-or-death battles, the magic power stat was most important to Taehyun, whose main strength was multiple skills.
'Recently, skills have been canceled frequently.'
The Race War stat had risen by 2 percent, likely due to the encounter with the Valkyrie, and the Territory War stat had risen to 30 percent.
'The Covenant of Summoning is definitely the answer.'
This made it clear that accepting the Grand Dukes' magic power was related to completing the 'Territory War' quest.
Was that all?
Taehyun's eyes sparkled as he checked the changed skills and newly registered skills.
First, the new skill 'True Blood' that appeared after making a covenant with Igmune.
As the description 'forms a Vampire Demon Stone in the body' stated, it was a skill that had already proven effective in actual combat.
Until now, he had imitated Igmune's authority with 'Energy Drain' obtained from Riki Hallis.
But by using 'True Blood', he would possess power equivalent to Igmune's top-tier kin through the formed Demon Stone.
'If I use the Heart of the Great Demon along with Energy Drain...'
Blood Transformation.
He would be able to freely use the power that the top-tier demon Devlin had used at the cost of his life.
Just thinking about it made him feel thrilled.
"And these two."
In the case of Jormungandr, two existing skills had been newly changed.
Originally, Taehyun possessed the skill 'Rage of Blood'.
It was merely a technique that Igmune had created by imitating Jormungandr's authority.
Of course, it was powerful enough on its own, but it wasn't on the same level as what Jormungandr had done against the Grand Dukes and the doppelganger in the mental world.
It was the difference between a technique and authority.
The description of 'Rage of the Deep Sea' had changed from 'activates physical stats' to 'enhances presence'.
He had already experienced the increase in personal physical abilities during the battle with Igmune.
He would find out whether this power would affect others as his proficiency increased.
And another ability created by Jormungandr.
'Watcher's Eye.'
The 'Demon Eye' that opened when using demon power.
The skill created by changing 'Top-tier Species' Eye', which had become a main skill.
"The description isn't anything special..."
Sees through the flow of magic power.
It was difficult to confirm the specific performance with that description alone.
Even in battle, he hadn't felt any particular difference from the 'Top-tier Species' Eye' he usually used.
"Well, I guess I'll have to try using it again."
Ding.
[Skill Watcher's Eye (SSS) has been activated.]
His eyesight strengthened, and the flow around him slowed down.
Again, he didn't feel much difference from the 'Top-tier Species' Eye'.
'Has it simply become more efficient?'
While Taehyun was looking around Rozaria's abode in that state.
[Did you have a hobby of peeking into a lady's secret spaces?]
He turned his head at the sudden voice.
Rozaria was just emerging from a gate that was closing.
At that moment.
[Contractor, that eye...!!]
Rozaria's expression, which had been joking as usual, hardened.
"Eye?"
Slurp!!
Rozaria wielded a tentacle.
A barrier made of purple magic power appeared before him.
A man with both a red eye and a blue eye.
Taehyun was there.
"Odd eye...?"
[Is that what Jormungandr did?]
Rozaria asked, her expression subtle.
It was different from when she usually gained the Grand Duke's authority, which was merely out of interest.
Taehyun nodded.
[Even that snake bastard would have a hard time playing such tricks...]
"What's so special about it?"
[......]
Rozaria was lost in thought without answering.
She was considering whether it was okay to mention it, thinking about the laws of the Abyss.
Taehyun waited quietly until she made a decision.
After a while, she opened her mouth.
[Contractor. That unpleasant eye is a characteristic of the Celestial race.]
"......!!"
[It's only the aura of a lower-level Celestial for now... but if it's the contractor, that power will surely become stronger as well.]
The characteristic of lower-level demons of the Lower Realm is red eyes.
The characteristic of the Celestial race of the Upper Realm is blue eyes.
Sometimes there are unusual ones like Jormungandr.
But most demons couldn't escape these characteristics.
But so what?
Wasn't the eye just a functional role at best?
"Is there a reason why I shouldn't open a blue eye?"
Rozaria, who had been hesitating, opened her mouth.
[You will gradually find out when you meet Lucifer. That's all I can tell you.]
"...I see."
Taehyun didn't ask any further.
As she said.
There was no need to force it and go against the laws of the Abyss.
He could just find out about matters related to the Celestial Realm when he met Lucifer.
Of course, before that.
'Making covenants with other Grand Dukes comes first.'
Rozaria already knew what Taehyun was thinking.
[So you're thinking of getting the power of Orgah and Beelzebub for sure.]
"The strongest of the Grand Dukes. I have to prepare thoroughly."
Orgah's contractor, Min Ji-hong, and Beelzebub's contractor, Kassim Zolt.
There was a high possibility that they were still alive.
To make a Covenant of Summoning with a Grand Duke who has a contractor, the relationship with that contractor must be severed.
Even if the contractor wants to terminate the relationship, the Grand Dukes have the choice.
And from the Grand Duke's perspective, there is no reason to change a contractor once they have chosen one.
It's not easy to find a useful human that matches their magic power.
'It's different from Asisat Abi's case.'
Min Ji-hong and Kassim Zolt. And Cody Cruise.
None of them had any reason to terminate the contract with the Grand Duke right away.
Unless it was bait to get the key.
[Perhaps you think that if you gather all the powers of the Grand Dukes, you will win the Territory War?]
That was just a process, but.
"It couldn't hurt."
Taehyun didn't deny it.
He was curious about her reaction.
As expected.
Rozaria reacted immediately.
[Wrong, Contractor. Even if you make Covenants of Summoning with all the Grand Dukes, they are not the end of the Territory War.]
"......?"
Taehyun's face twitched at the unexpected words.
Rozaria's red eyes didn't miss that moment.
She wore her unique benevolent smile.
[Oh dear, I almost fell into the Contractor's trap.]
"Too bad."
Unlike his words, he had gained something.
'The end of the Territory War.'
As it had been so far.
It was something Taehyun had to find out.
[Worry about the others first. You'll find out when the time comes. Remember. Lucifer won't be easy.]
"I will."
Rozaria said she needed to rest too and left.
After deactivating 'Watcher's Eye', he scanned the remaining skills.
Besides the skills he had looked at earlier.
Overall, his demon magic power had decreased considerably.
"Lucifer... what is that guy doing right now?"
Thinking of Cody Cruise's face.
Taehyun lay down on the floor again.
Guangzhou, China.
[Cody has begun moving. A gate is detected inside.]
"Roger."
Sarah Collins began to move at the call from the Association player.
She had been chasing him from Shanghai to Beijing, and from Beijing, she had just arrived in Guangzhou.
'As expected of Master.'
His skills in erasing his presence were so excellent that tracking him would have been impossible without the help of the Association.
How many times had he switched gates?
The place he arrived at was a large cathedral located on the outskirts of Guangzhou.
It was said to be a newly popular pseudo-religion.
Using an S-rank stealth scroll, she infiltrated the interior of the building without being noticed.
And deep inside the building.
She found Cody Cruise standing in front of a medium-sized gate leading to the Abyss.
She already knew that the two travel bags in front of him were Bags of Infinity.
She also knew that Lee Jung-jae of the Taesan Guild and a demon called Black Hole were inside those bags.
At that moment, Cody Cruise and her eyes met.
'Did he know I was following him?'
Considering his unusual senses, it wasn't surprising.
Swish, swish, swish.
Sarah Collins deactivated her stealth.
"Cody. What exactly are you planning?"
"......"
Clang.
Cody Cruise silently drew his sword.
The Magic-grade sword he obtained after killing the demon Lee Chun-hee, the owner of this cathedral.
It was surprising that the leader of a pseudo-religion active in China was a New Korean.
But.
'This isn't about the grade of the weapon.'
The energy emanating from the sword imbued with magic power was ominous.
"What in the world happened to you?!!"
Sarah Collins instinctively used a skill.
Ding.
[Skill Terraforming (SS) has been activated.]
Her physical stats rapidly increased as she absorbed Cody Cruise's magic power.
The amount of magic power he was wielding was ridiculous.
Bang.
Her trained body began to burst.
Tear.
She used the ultra-fast regeneration scroll she had brought in advance.
Whoosh.
A white halo enveloped her body.
The duration of the ultra-fast regeneration imbued with the power of the Saintess was 20 seconds.
During that time, she would gain an immortal body.
But that was only for a moment.
Whoosh.
Gray magic power rose from Cody Cruise's body as he watched silently.
At the same time, the regeneration of her bursting body was stopped.
'Regeneration... isn't working...?'
She didn't let her guard down just because regeneration had stopped.
It was just a speed she couldn't even perceive.
Thwack.
Cody Cruise's sword pierced her stomach.
"Why..."
"......"
Without answering.
Drip, drip.
Blood flowed.
Eventually, the sword, unable to withstand Cody Cruise's magic power, broke, and fragments scattered.
Thud.
Sarah Collins, who had instantly become a rag doll, lost consciousness.
"......"
For a very brief moment.
Cody Cruise, who had her in his eyes, crossed the gate.
The Upper Realm, which consists of 10 districts.
Odin, the owner of the 7th Heavenly Realm, was playing with the runes he had newly collected.
Suddenly, the rune sparkled, and the face of Brunhilde, the Valkyrie corps commander, appeared.
[Odin. The owner of the 10th Heavenly Realm wishes to see you.]
[The 10th Heavenly Realm? Didn't the owner there change recently?]
[Yes. 'Obelisk' and 'Osiris' have joined forces to drive out 'Ra'. Osiris is currently in the seat of the owner.]
[I have a feeling it's for an unpleasant reason. Refuse.]
[......]
Brunhilde's expression hardened at Odin's cheerful command.
377
[What's wrong, my little darling? Why the long face?]
Just like usual.
Odin asked in a cheerful voice.
[......]
[......?]
Odin tilted his head at Brunhild's silence.
Brunhild was one of the most skilled Valkyrie legion commanders.
She had always followed even the most unreasonable orders without complaint, so the fact that she was now...
[You're not feeling burdened just by refusing a visit from an absolute being from another celestial realm, are you?]
At Odin's almost accusatory question, Brunhild opened her mouth.
[The master of the 10th Celestial Realm says he's visiting in connection with news of the Valkyrie legion commanders dispatched to the Lower Realm.]
[......]
At her words, Odin was momentarily speechless.
Gunnhildr, Skjalm, Eir.
All Valkyries with the rank of legion commander, they were individuals who had shared life and death with Brunhild, and whom Odin also cherished dearly as subordinates.
If not for the loyal Valkyries, and if not for the exceptional Valkyrie legion commanders leading them...
Even the 7th Celestial Realm would have experienced civil war long ago.
Yet, three of those Valkyrie legion commanders had simultaneously gone missing in the Lower Realm.
Since the 'Rune of Life' shared by the legion commanders was no longer functioning, it was safe to assume they were dead.
And now, someone who knew news of the legion commanders had come?
None other than the new master of the Celestial Realm.
There was no reason to refuse.
The smile disappeared from Odin's face.
[Bring him in.]
[Understood.]
Brunhild answered with precision, and then.
Swish.
A man appeared through an installed portal.
A man with striking red hair and heterochromatic eyes of blue and yellow.
It was Osiris, the newly ascended master of the 10th Celestial Realm, in a polymorphed form.
[How have you been, master of the 7th Celestial Realm?]
Osiris greeted him as if he were an old friend.
[I heard you became the master of the 10th Celestial Realm just a moment ago.]
There was none of the playful demeanor Odin had shown when talking with Brunhild in his words.
He was treating a guest as the master of the Celestial Realm.
[Even so, the one called the great mage of the Upper Realm is showing too little interest in his neighbor. If you had helped, the 10th Celestial Realm would be entirely mine.]
Osiris referred to the past when he had asked for help to strike down 'Ra,' the former master of the 10th Celestial Realm.
Odin had a fanatical hobby of collecting runes and Valkyries, but his skills were such that even the masters of other Celestial Realms would give him some respect.
[If you had helped.]
Instead of splitting the Obelisk and the 10th Celestial Realm, he would have taken it entirely and built a strong relationship with the 7th Celestial Realm.
Osiris spoke plausible words.
[Still thinking of begging for help from another Celestial Realm... are you still thinking such petty things?]
[......]
[Look at 'Ra.' Even though he suffered such humiliation from you guys, he didn't beg for help until the end. You mutated lizard.]
Odin did not hide his disgusted expression as he snapped back.
[How rude.]
Unlike his words, Osiris was smiling.
He had extended a hand for help for a long time, so he knew Odin's eccentric personality well.
[How long are you going to treat me like a kid? The position of master of the 10th Celestial Realm isn't so insecure that you'd get so worked up.]
[Hmph. Still, you seem more plausible than before.]
After observing his growth for a moment, Odin spoke again.
[Alright, Osiris. Usurper of the throne. What did you want to say to me?]
[I haven't even brought up my business here yet.]
[Don't you think I'm doing enough just by being your conversation partner?]
Ignoring Odin's words, Osiris opened his mouth.
[The Abyss's Law. I need a way to bypass the curse that the Lower Realm King created. I thought you might have a way.]
[Oh my, you should know your place. If you're asking for a favor, you should bow down from the start.]
The rune Odin was holding glowed and transformed into a spear.
Osiris's heterochromatic eyes shone as he recognized its power.
[The Holy Spear Longinus. Indeed, the pressure is on a different level from what the Valkyries imitate. Oh, and I'm sorry to hear about the Valkyries you sent to the Lower Realm.]
[......]
Silence fell.
The Spear of Longinus in Odin's hand.
The radiance enveloping it pulsed as if it would explode at any moment.
[It's not difficult to annihilate you.]
[I won't deny that.]
This was Odin's domain.
Osiris, being a top-tier absolute being, wouldn't give up his life easily, but as with all masters, it was inevitable that he had an advantage in his own territory.
[You're being too confident for someone who knows that.]
Whoosh.
Radiance surrounded Osiris.
It could be torn to shreds at will.
But just as he thought that.
Swish.
The Spear of Longinus disappeared, and the radiance subsided as well.
From the start, he had no intention of fighting without a reason.
He just wanted to scratch Osiris's pride, who was being more cheeky than 'Ra,' and start negotiations.
[Indeed, a fitting attitude for the greatest absolute being of the 7th Celestial Realm.]
[Spare me the hypocrisy.]
Absolute being.
That was a title only allowed to those chosen among the celestial beings of the Upper Realm.
All of them had the power to aim for the master of each Celestial Realm, and the current master of the Celestial Realm wanted to have them as subordinates to solidify their power.
[Even so, aren't we also incomplete beings? The true 'King' of us all is still missing.]
Osiris mentioned the Upper Realm King Baal.
[The Lower Realm King is also missing. More importantly, I'd like to know about my cute subordinates.]
Odin deliberately didn't use the words 'end' or 'death.'
[You're impatient. Well, either way, once you know the truth, you'll have no choice but to cooperate.]
Swish.
His heterochromatic eyes flashed, and a subspace portal was created.
As Osiris reached out his hand.
Thud.
A bluish magic crystal popped out from there and into his hand.
Odin lightly caught the magic crystal Osiris threw.
[A magic crystal from the Lower Realm. The memory you want is recorded there.]
[A magic crystal? How did you get this?]
[Isn't what's inside more important?]
[......]
That was true.
Radiance emanated from Odin's hand.
He was using the Rune of Insight.
The magic crystal, which had been rejecting the radiance, spat out the memory it contained.
[......!!]
Odin's body flinched slightly at the unfolding memory.
Before his eyes was the Archduke, called the greatest power of the Lower Realm.
Surprisingly, three of them were gathered in one place, fighting each other.
Rosaria, the Queen of Succubi.
Igmud, the Vampire Lord.
Jormungandr, the Sea Serpent King.
If they existed in the Upper Realm, they would have claimed the title of absolute being, all monsters with existences that transcended their innate rank.
Were they having a territorial war?
Odin watched their battle with that thought.
As if it were Igmud's territory, Igmud was defeating Rosaria and Jormungandr, who were attacking in concert.
Skjalm, who was briefly glimpsed, was on the verge of death after being struck by Igmud's blood sword, while Gunnhildr and Eir were fighting against five individuals who appeared to be Igmud's highest-ranking subordinates.
The Spear of False Longinus.
Even though they had drawn the strongest weapon they could use in the Lower Realm.
The monsters were taking Skjalm's life and driving Gunnhildr and Eir into a corner.
It was a sight that they should not have shown in their usual state.
[That damned restriction is in effect.]
Odin clicked his tongue and cursed the Abyss's Law created by the Lower Realm King.
Of course, if it weren't for that curse, those called Archdukes wouldn't be fighting with their powers limited either.
There was a particularly noticeable presence among that battle.
A being who wasn't maintaining a human form through polymorph, but was human by birth.
[Is this guy the key the Lower Realm King chose?]
Odin recognized the existence at once.
Surprisingly, a fragment of a rune could be felt from his body.
And it was that of Gunnhildr, Eir, and Skjalm.
Of all three Valkyrie legion commanders.
When Odin sent Osiris a look demanding an explanation, he shrugged his shoulders.
[Kim Taehyun. He seems to be causing quite a stir in the Lower Realm. It seems even those called Archdukes are having a hard time. He's also an existence recognized by the Valkyries you cherish.]
[Those kids?]
Kim Taehyun's existence, which had entered recovery, was growing stronger and stronger, and before they knew it, he was on par with the Valkyries.
And suddenly.
Jormungandr self-destructed.
Following that, Rosaria, who was left alone, began to unleash an even stronger power.
But she was no match for Igmud and seemed likely to disappear as she was.
No, to be precise, it would be a sealing, not a disappearance.
One of the things that the Abyss's Law strongly applies to is the loss of Archduke-level existence.
Unlike Jormungandr, who was not the main body.
Igmud would not be able to annihilate Rosaria.
That's what he thought, but.
Clang.
The key of the Lower Realm King, Kim Taehyun, intervened.
The guy wielding the sword of lightning summoned the Giant King Typhon.
[Hooh.]
Already handling two Archdukes.
Odin reacted with interest to the unexpected power.
Even in the Upper Realm, where they couldn't directly travel to Earth, they were well aware of the inferiority of humans.
The Earth, the Lower Realm King's birthplace.
In the distant past.
They had endlessly studied the creatures there for the victory or defeat of the race war.
The conclusion they reached was one.
A creature even more inferior than the monsters of the Lower Realm.
They had only learned that the Lower Realm King was a variable born of God's whim.
That may be true.
But even if they were Archdukes whose ancient powers were sealed by the Abyss's Law.
A human, of all things.
Was matching swords with the main body Archduke.
The battle intensified, and Kim Taehyun drove Igmud to the brink of defeat.
The last scene recorded by the magic crystal was the other two Valkyries dying by Igmud's blood sword.
[In the end. It was Igmud who killed those darlings.]
Odin frowned as if he had seen a picture he didn't like.
Igmud.
He was the very person who killed countless Valkyries in several race wars.
Of course, his Valkyries had cut down more vampires, but that didn't matter.
[A failed creation of God daring to not know his place.]
[Are you going to kill him? You shouldn't underestimate the Archdukes too easily.]
[The current Archdukes are all insignificant anyway.]
[Hehe. You're very confident. The Lower Realm King's tricks won't last much longer. So, shall we hear your answer now?]
Osiris demanded that Odin provide a rune that could bypass the Abyss's Law.
Odin shook his head.
[It's impossible right now. But if I have enough time, it's not impossible.]
[Of course, there will be conditions?]
[You have a habit of stating the obvious as if it's nothing. Share the information you've collected in the Lower Realm. If you do, I'll support you with as many runes as you need.]
Osiris's heterochromatic eyes narrowed like a snake.
[Hehehe. You're saying we should take all the risks.]
[You don't like it?]
[Of course not.]
It was the moment when the masters of the 10th and 7th Celestial Realms formed an alliance.
The battle waged by the Upper Realm King and the Lower Realm King.
It was like the existence of two giants colliding.
At the end of the collision.
[Have I lost again this time.]
The man who chose Taehyun as the key.
The Lower Realm King spoke with a self-deprecating voice.
The Upper Realm King burst into wild laughter.
[The Lower Realm. The limits of your rank can't be helped.]
[......]
[I'll suggest it one more time. How about we hunt God together?]
378화
신살자(神殺者).
That was a word only the Upper Realm King could utter, across both the Celestial and Lower Realms.
[You can't even handle a mutated lizard, and you talk about Gods?]
Nonsense.
The Lower Realm King rejected the proposal once again.
[The erosion of dimensions is imminent. Your existence is already such that you can't even return to your home planet.]
It was ridicule laced with mockery.
Born as a human, he obtained the power of demons, and eventually transcended his status.
He dominated all Archdukes and escalated the situation to the point of waging a race war against the Upper Realm.
Baal, who is now the Upper Realm King.
The man before him had accomplished something he himself had never dreamed of.
Yet.
He couldn't even approach his own original dimension?
It would be strange if he didn't find it laughable.
Baal's mockery continued.
[Did you take a liking to the Abyss? A failed product made by the Gods. A junkyard created by the Gods. Is that where you've decided to live, forgetting your own existence?]
[Your penchant for wild exaggerations remains unchanged. I can't listen to any more.]
As the Lower Realm King spoke, deep blue mana erupted from his body.
The power of the Great Demon Gorperl - Desire.
A power he had newly acquired before this race war.
Recognizing the power, Baal burst into wild laughter.
[You've even devoured the power of a Great Demon? You must have been quite desperate.]
The Lower Realm King did not deny it.
He had to do anything he could to face the being before him.
But.
[Don't think it's the same level as the one that guy used.]
Deep blue mana dyed the area.
It looked as if a vast mana sea had unfolded.
Baal's massive form shook as he watched the scene.
Desire.
Certainly, it was not a bad power to use against him now.
If this battle, this encounter, were the first race war they were waging.
[There was a guy in the Upper Realm who had a similar power.]
As Baal spoke, his body began to emit light.
Radiance.
Odin, the owner of the 7,000 realms and a well-known mage in the Upper Realm.
His power, 'Rune,' was unleashed.
Deep blue mana and radiance mixed and intertwined, and the battle continued relentlessly.
The power of an ability depends more on the wielder's skill than on its inherent strength.
In that regard, the power of Desire used by the Lower Realm King already far surpassed that of its original owner, but...
Odin's power of Rune was too diverse.
In the end, the power of Desire could not overcome the power of Rune.
Crimson mana erupted once again from the King's body.
The maw of Devouring swallowed both deep blue and radiance.
It didn't specifically attack Baal.
In the Lower Realm, all the Archdukes except the King had either been eliminated or surrounded.
If he continued the battle any longer, he would not be able to use even the last remaining power of Reincarnation.
[It's truly regrettable. Even though you've reached the realm of a demigod, the inferior beings couldn't support you.]
[......]
The King silently gathered mana.
Crack!
As if space were a living thing, the maw of Devouring bit into the void.
Through the gap, all sorts of mana devoured by the Lower Realm King were sucked in.
[No matter how many times we repeat this, it will end the same way.]
Reincarnation is a power of the Gods.
Baal quietly watched the spell being cast.
Unlike himself, who had been abandoned.
The Lower Realm King had inherited a part of the power of the Gods.
Once activated, even he could not control it.
At that moment.
Baal's huge red eyes, which had been scanning the surroundings, stopped moving.
[So you were hiding there? The key to the future, Kim Taehyun.]
Omnipotence that could breathe life into even the dead.
An existence that couldn't be compared to an Absolute Being.
An immense presence enveloped the area.
"......!!"
Taehyun realized that he was alive.
He would have retched if he could.
But he couldn't even make a sound, use skills, or use mana.
Baal's red eyes slowly turned azure.
[In the future. Humans. Do they become such enticing beings?]
A chill.
Even though he clearly had no physical body.
An oppressive feeling that made it impossible to breathe weighed down on his entire body.
Kim Taehyun.
I.
Die.
Here.
Only fragmented words floated in his mind.
Just as he was about to whisper something else.
Whoosh!
The Lower Realm King blocked Taehyun.
His face, emanating all kinds of mana from his body, was filled with exhaustion.
With his back to Baal.
[......]
The King said something.
I can't hear.
Shouting with a voice that wouldn't come out, he concentrated to hear even a little more, even one more word.
[…Fairy… Wora…….]
[You're still doing pointless things until the very last moment.]
At the same time as Baal's voice, his vision was reversed.
It was dark.
And.
Taehyun woke up from a long sleep.
'......!!'
Ding.
[Skill Memorize (SSS) has been canceled.]
[Fragment of the Race War' has been recorded.]
"Haa... Haa...."
Checking the messages, Taehyun unknowingly gasped for breath.
The scenes he had seen a moment ago were still vivid in his mind.
His body was soaking wet.
It was different from any other dream he had had.
The Upper Realm King, Baal.
He was clearly aware of Taehyun.
No, before that, the last words the King had said.
'He definitely said Fairy…'
Just as Taehyun was thinking that.
Ding.
[The progress rate of the quest 'Race War' has increased.]
[Progress rate - 5%]
[The quest 'Fairy King's Magic Stone' has been generated.]
'What...?'
[Success reward - ???]
'What is this...?'
Taehyun couldn't hide his bewilderment at the suddenly appearing quest.
Fairy King.
The Lower Realm King had clearly mentioned a Fairy.
But it was a race he had never heard of before.
'If he's called a King, there's no way I wouldn't know.'
As he was thinking that and trying to understand the meaning for a while.
Ding.
[The quest 'Fairy King's Magic Stone' has been accepted.]
[Progress rate - 0.1%]
At the messages that appeared on their own.
"......"
Taehyun stopped thinking.
He couldn't just keep thinking about it.
He went to find Typhon to ask about the Fairy King.
There was no way Rosaria would tell him even if he asked, so he chose Typhon, who was easy to target.
The Giant Clan's new territory.
The Labyrinth, Terra.
A considerable amount of time had passed since they had taken over the place that had been Orgal's 20th Star.
Now, the territory had expanded to the point where the Giant Clan members were coming out and staying around Terra.
Guided by Erebus, they arrived deep inside Terra.
Where Typhon's throne was.
[What brings you here, contractor?]
Typhon greeted Taehyun grumbling.
His voice contained a strange emotion rather than joy.
"......?"
Taehyun tilted his head, looking at Erebus.
[Father… thinks that the brother is monopolizing Rosaria's love….]
"......"
In short, it meant he was sulking.
An Archduke who was arrogant and second to none in pride and self-esteem.
Jealous of a human he considered inferior.
"Typhon, I think you're misunderstanding something."
[Misunderstanding? This body is misunderstanding? Hahaha.]
Typhon burst into laughter, pretending to be generous.
'He's really sulking.'
It seemed that the misunderstanding had solidified into a misguided belief.
If so, there was only one way.
"I told you before the reason why Rosaria doesn't show interest in you, right?"
Before, it was because he was weak.
With those words, he stimulated Typhon's motivation.
But this time, it seemed that a more direct expression was needed.
"It's because you're weaker than me."
[......!!]
[......!!]
As if they hadn't expected it.
Typhon and Erebus' eyes widened.
[Contractor, you… how can you say that!!]
Authority poured out of Typhon's body as he flared up.
Flame and cold air mixed and the surrounding temperature reversed, thunder and wind mixed, the ground turned over, and the surrounding area was distorted.
It was truly a terrifying power, but.
'It's not to the point where I can't handle it.'
If he released his full power, he could stand against it.
It wasn't difficult for Typhon to read his thoughts from Taehyun's confident eyes.
[This body!! Is not weak!!!]
[Father, calm down….]
Despite Erebus' dissuasion, Typhon's mana grew stronger and stronger.
Although he had been degraded, he was still an Archduke.
His pride wasn't going anywhere.
"Step back, brother."
Taehyun warned Erebus, who was unable to do anything between himself and Typhon.
In his hand was already the Dragonslayer Sword.
[Brother!! What are you doing now!!]
"What am I doing? I'm trying to make him realize the reality."
Ding.
[Skill Origin's Element (SSS) has been activated.]
Crackle.
Lightning flowed through the Dragonslayer Sword.
A skill he obtained by contracting with Typhon.
But its power was nothing compared to when he first obtained it.
He pointed the Dragonslayer Sword at Typhon.
"Typhon. Try it yourself."
[......!!]
[Brother… do you want to die…?]
Erebus couldn't bring himself to say those words out loud, unable to step back, unable to do anything.
To give his all, Taehyun unleashed skills with immense power one by one.
With 'Beastification', he created a body to accept power beyond its limits, and with 'Demonization', he created a pair of wings.
After strengthening his senses with 'Observer's Eye', he formed two magic stones in his body with 'Great Demon's Heart' and 'True Blood'.
Whirr-
Whirr-
The mana emanating from one heart and two magic stones began to overwhelm the surroundings in an instant.
Ding.
[Skill Demon's Saliva (SSS) has been activated. Target identified.]
Fssst.
Poisonous mana flowed from the Dragonslayer Sword, and.
[Skill Apocalypse (SSS) has been activated.]
Whoosh.
Darkness fell over the area.
[Skill Frenzy of the Deep Sea (SSS) has been activated. A great power awakens.]
Erebus lost his words at the suffocating pressure.
At this moment.
The energy that Taehyun was emitting was not inferior to Typhon's.
He wasn't in his best condition in the battle with Igmun, but.
Now, not only was his condition perfect, but his stats and skill proficiency had also increased even further.
Lastly.
Ding.
[Unique Skill Devour (SSS) has been activated. Target identified.]
Crack.
A crimson shadow was created under Taehyun's feet.
It was in a state where it could tear Typhon's body apart at any time according to his command.
[Contractor… you….]
Typhon trembled as he confirmed that Taehyun was serious.
Only then did he realize how weak his power had become.
At best, he was only a clone of the Archduke.
As he acknowledged the humiliating reality, the excitement quickly subsided.
Typhon controlled the power that was on the verge of explosion.
The phenomenon that was like a natural disaster disappeared in an instant.
[You're right. This body is no longer an existence that can be called an Archduke.]
Typhon's massive form drooped.
'This guy… he makes me feel strangely sympathetic…?'
Canceling all his skills, Taehyun brought up a question that had been bothering him.
"Why is the recovery so slow?"
The damage to the magic stone was more serious than he thought.
Typhon shook his head and answered.
"Isn't there a way to restore the damaged magic stone to its original state?"
It was Erebus who answered that question.
[The Fairy Race. The healing spring that grows in their forest is needed.]
"Fairy Race...?"
He was surprised at the quest that naturally came to mind, but only for a moment.
"Fairy Race. It's a race I've never heard of?"
Taehyun asked naturally.
It was a question that Rosaria would not have answered.
Typhon did not hesitate to take the simple bait.
[It's a race that was destroyed by the Demon Race a long time ago. It was the work of that fly-like Belzebub using Diablo and the Great Demons.]
Damn Demon bastards.
After spitting out obscenities, he said that he had no memory of seeing the Fairy Race in the Abyss since then.
"What about Lucifer's power?"
Lucifer's power is regeneration.
If it was the power of an Archduke, wouldn't it be possible to restore the damaged magic stone?
Taehyun asked with that thought in mind, but.
[His power doesn't suit this body. If you make a mistake, it will decompose the body instead of regenerate it.]
"......"
Only bad answers came back.
[Damn fly bastard. It was before the laws of the Abyss existed that he annihilated the Fairy Race….]
He must have been destroyed, Typhon said, grinding his teeth and cursing Belzebub.
Taehyun quietly opened his mouth.
"Typhon. The Fairy Race has not been destroyed."
[......?]
[What are you talking about, brother.]
Receiving Typhon's gaze that he was talking nonsense and Erebus' gaze that he was talking crap, Taehyun continued.
"Not only the Fairy Race. There's a high possibility that the Fairy King is also alive."
379
[Fairy King!!]
The giant was so adorably surprised.
Taehyun couldn’t help but laugh.
“Is this Fairy King also a Grand Duke level?”
[It took two Grand Dukes to deal with that species. Isn’t it obvious?]
Typhon replied, frowning.
[Contractor, wait….]
“Hmm?”
[More than that, how did you even know about the Fairy King….]
Suddenly.
Typhon clutched his head.
Erebus, who had directly mentioned the fairy race, did the same.
[Why suddenly… the memory….]
[Could it be… that we had forgotten….]
The sight of the two giants in confusion was strangely familiar.
Taehyun formed a new hypothesis.
The reason why no one had ever mentioned the fairy race.
It was because, for some reason, the memories of the fairy race had been erased from all the demons in the Lower World.
‘It’s not the law of the Abyss.’
If it was a spell used by the King of the Lower World, Typhon wouldn’t be this confused.
[This memory… is it… related to you?]
“I think it probably is.”
[I can’t understand.]
He frowned and muttered, seemingly experiencing a severe headache.
‘If Rosaria is in a similar situation to Typhon….’
It was possible that other Grand Dukes had also become aware of the fairy race by now.
Recalling the dreamlike, memory-like source, he broke out in a cold sweat.
‘It’s better not to say anything unnecessarily.’
There was no need to bring up an uncertain hypothesis.
The important thing wasn’t that, so Taehyun redirected the conversation.
[Yes. How you found out isn’t important. So, what’s the plan?]
Typhon asked directly.
“Diablo must have been annihilated by the King. So, we’ll have to find him through Beelzebub.”
[…….]
Now he was saying he would go find a Grand Duke without the slightest worry.
Such confidence.
He could once again feel how much his contractor had grown, not just physically but mentally.
He could regain his power.
He could recover his original ‘immense power.’
Typhon’s face brightened.
[I will help. It’s not the time to be proud when it comes to regaining my power.]
“For once, we agree.”
Thinking that the shock therapy had worked, Taehyun said that.
[Before that, you also have something to promise.]
“Hmm?”
[It’s a very important matter. We need to make it clear with the authority of the Great Demon.]
‘I’m worried.’
He wondered if Typhon would make an unreasonable request.
His brow furrowed at the thought.
“What is it?”
[Hehehe. Rosaria. Don’t set your heart on my fiancée.]
“What…?”
[Looking at that dumbfounded expression, I guess my prediction wasn’t wrong.]
He couldn’t trust the promise from when he lifted the seal anymore.
He understood being attracted to Rosaria’s appearance, but at this rate, they wouldn’t be able to maintain a proper cooperative relationship.
Typhon muttered to himself.
‘Typhon… you bastard….’
His simplicity made the spine that hadn’t wavered even before the authority, tingle.
There was no need to complicate the other party’s requirements.
The current condition was clearly as good as free for Taehyun.
“I accept.”
[Indeed!! A man who knows what ‘sincerity’ is!!]
“There’s a saying in South Korea that new wine should be put in new bottles. It seems we need to put forward a new proposal on this side as well?”
[Speak. I’ll accept anything I can grant.]
“It’s nothing much. Just that you continue to actively help me in the future. Until our ‘sincerity’ doesn’t change.”
[Of course!!]
Ding.
[The skill Dominator of Desire (SSS) has been activated. Targeting the subject.]
Deep blue magic bloomed.
Taehyun spoke of Typhon actively participating in future battles.
Typhon stubbornly extracted the condition that Taehyun would not harbor personal feelings for Rosaria.
“I, Kim Taehyun, will only have the heart and duty of a collaborator towards Rosaria. If I ever have any other feelings….”
[If you have?]
“What, should I give up my life?”
[…….]
‘This bastard….’
Even though he was dumbfounded, he didn’t refuse the offer.
“If I ever have any other feelings… I will entrust my life to Typhon.”
[Hahahaha. Have you ever seen such an exhilarating contractor!!]
Typhon burst into laughter that shook Terra.
Not only that.
The authority that was activated because he couldn’t contain his joy once again began to devastate the surroundings.
An incredibly one-sided deal had been concluded.
[Ah… Father….]
Erebus shook his head.
He watched the scene with a pathetic expression.
The deepest part of the Abyss.
Beelzebub’s Fortress.
In the neatly restored castle, there was no trace of the damage caused by Taehyun and Igmun’s rampage in the past.
Beelzebub scanned the nineteen Great Demons who had been summoned.
There was an empty seat among them.
A Great Demon of ancient origin like himself.
It was Gopher’s seat.
[Today, his absence feels particularly significant.]
Beelzebub clicked his tongue and mourned the demise of his subordinate.
The fact that he had been annihilated, no, eaten, by Kim Taehyun, was already confirmed.
[I will find the next Great Demon immediately.]
The highest-ranking subordinate, who was of ancient origin like Beelzebub and could be called his confidant.
The Great Demon Mammon said that.
[Do so.]
The Hidden Realm was where he was raising his power to win the Domain War and challenge the King.
He couldn’t afford to neglect the management even a little.
[Then, Gilfer. Shall we hear your story?]
Beelzebub singled out Gilfer and spoke.
The eyes of the nineteen Great Demons focused on her.
[Gilfer, speak truthfully.]
Mammon spoke with force.
Although she was from the same ancient Great Demon lineage.
He looked down on Gilfer, who had lost her authority.
The same was true for those who were not ancient Great Demons.
They thought that Gilfer had fallen in rank because she couldn’t withstand the power of the King during the reincarnation process.
If it wasn’t for her remaining strong body, she would have had to give up the title of Great Demon.
Without paying attention to those gazes.
Gilfer stepped forward and calmly reported the past events.
While carrying out the recent order to recover Gopher’s territory, she had encountered Kim Taehyun.
In the process, she learned that Kim Taehyun had made a bet with Igmun and Jormungandr.
[Are you out of your mind?]
Deumus, who held the lowest seat among the Great Demons, stepped forward and said.
[To be with the guy who annihilated your brother. Have you forgotten your pride as a Great Demon?]
The Great Demon Prachra chimed in.
In addition, several Great Demons mentioned the word betrayal.
[The Lord is receiving a report. Everyone shut your mouths and wait for Gilfer to finish.]
Another ancient Great Demon, Mephisto.
At his words, some of them closed their mouths.
[I agree. These youngsters have no manners.]
The last ancient Great Demon, Asura.
He growled and chimed in with Mephisto.
It was to make it clear that there was a difference in class even among the Great Demons.
Gilfer’s report continued.
When she mentioned that Jormungandr had summoned the Valkyrie Commander, several of the Great Demons couldn’t hide their surprise.
[Kim Taehyun and Jormungandr. These crazy bastards really stirred things up.]
There was no way Beelzebub wouldn’t notice something involving many Grand Dukes.
But Igmun had put up such a strong barrier that it was information he would have missed if not for Gilfer’s report.
Beelzebub asked about the whereabouts of the key.
[So? What happened to Kim Taehyun?]
[He has formed a summoning covenant with Jormungandr and Igmun.]
Silence fell over the area.
Not only had he survived against the three Valkyrie Commanders who were on par with the ancient Great Demons.
He had even won the bet against two Grand Dukes?
[Were you just standing there watching the whole time!!]
It was Menaka who shouted that.
As a female Great Demon like Gilfer.
She had been itching to provoke Gilfer, and she had seized the opportunity.
Swoosh.
Gilfer stared at Menaka’s glaring red eyes.
She wondered what she disliked so much.
She looked like she was about to pull out her claws at any moment.
[Didn’t I tell you? Kim Taehyun has become able to wield Gopher’s authority. That was the best I could do.]
[This pathetic…!!]
Menaka, led by Deumus and Prachra, once again raised their voices.
They said that she should use her authority to punish Gilfer immediately.
However, Gilfer was an ancient Great Demon like their lord.
Mentioning Gilfer’s demise could offend Beelzebub, so they had to be careful.
[Even if I don’t have authority. I will be better at serving the Lord than those idiots.]
At Gilfer’s provocation, the three Great Demons managed to control their anger.
Kilkilkik.
Beelzebub laughed for a moment.
[Excellent. Everyone, fulfill your duties in your original positions.]
There was no more slander.
At Beelzebub’s command, the eighteen Great Demons disappeared as they were.
The only one left was Mammon, who was managing the First Hidden Realm.
[What are your thoughts?]
[I am suspicious.]
[I have the same thought. But I don’t feel good about questioning an ancient sibling like ourselves.]
Not getting his hands dirty in dirty work was Beelzebub’s old habit.
[If she really lost her authority, she wouldn’t be able to face Menaka, Deumus, and Prachra at the same time.]
[Oh my, are you telling me to pit an ancient sibling against the new children?]
As if saying, “How can you say such a disappointing thing?”
Beelzebub smiled faintly and asked.
[I will pretend I didn’t hear that.]
[I will handle it quietly.]
Just as Mammon was about to leave after saying that.
[Mammon.]
[……?]
[Make sure you bring back Gilfer’s magic stone.]
[…….]
Kwaaaaa.
Gilfer arrived at the Hidden Realm she was managing through the gate installed in Beelzebub’s castle.
[I should lay low for a while.]
She had expected it, but the backlash from the Great Demons was unusual.
Especially Beelzebub.
He didn’t show it, but he was truly an unpredictable being.
He didn’t become a Grand Duke by trampling on the powerful Great Demons for nothing.
Many of the newly recruited Great Demons, including the ancient Great Demons Mammon, Mephisto, and Asura, were genuinely following Beelzebub.
At this rate, Beelzebub would eventually seize the victory in the Domain War among the Grand Dukes.
This was an unwelcome situation for Gilfer, who was still aiming for the throne of the Demon King.
[Kim Taehyun….]
A human who had not been pushed back at all against the Grand Dukes.
She didn’t know what had happened to him after that.
But somehow, she felt like he would have overcome that situation.
For some reason, he had a knack for giving people such expectations.
At that moment.
Kwaaa.
Kwaaa.
Kwaaaaaaa.
Three gates were created in front of Gopher.
Hidden Realm.
Among the demon race, only Beelzebub and the Great Demons knew the coordinates of this place.
The only one who could directly connect the gates was the Great Demon Mastema.
Unwelcome people appeared from the gates.
Menaka with the authority of ‘Lies’.
Deumus with the authority of ‘Barrier’.
Prachra with the authority of ‘Degeneration’.
From Gilfer’s perspective, they were rookies who had not been Great Demons for long.
[What is going on in my domain?]
Even though she could fully guess the reason, Gilfer asked for confirmation.
[It seems you have already noticed.]
[It seems you have gained the skill of scheming after losing your authority.]
[That doesn’t change anything.]
Kikkikkik.
Kilkilkikik.
Menaka and Prachra let out lowly laughter.
Okay, here's the translation:
Chapter 380
"Did Belzebub order this?"
Gilfer asked calmly.
"Don't utter my lord's name with that disgraceful mouth."
Menaka, who usually harbored animosity toward Gilfer, snarled.
"Whoa, whoa. Calm down, Menaka."
"He's lost his power anyway. There's no need to get worked up."
The great demons began to mock her.
They said they'd spare her if she revealed the coordinates of where Kim Taehyun was.
"I'll say it again. Kim Taehyun and Bonma are not in that kind of relationship. If you want to know, ask him directly..."
Just then.
KWAHAAA.
Another gate was created in front of Gilfer.
Within it was a power mixed with magic that wouldn't be unusual even for a supreme demon.
"Could it be..."
Gilfer was momentarily taken aback.
Taehyun appeared.
"Hmm?"
Taehyun, standing between the great demons and Gilfer, tilted his head.
[...]
[...]
[...]
[...]
"..."
Soon, Taehyun understood the situation and the corners of his lips turned up.
"Gilfer, how have you been?"
Sure enough.
She sighed at his more friendly attitude than usual.
The three great demons, convinced that Taehyun was the key, unleashed their fighting spirit.
Gilfer also let poisonous magic flow into her fingernails.
"Come at me, you bratty great demons."
Tsssk. Tsssk.
The purple magic flowing down her thorn-like nails began to melt the floor.
Instinctively, he could tell.
Everyone here was called a great demon.
All of them were emitting their inherent magic, albeit subtly, in addition to Belzebub's.
Far from capturing Taehyun, they fought together against Valkyrie.
'Was Gilfer abandoned?'
That was the first plausible hypothesis that came to mind.
But he soon changed his mind.
'No, maybe she betrayed him.'
Gilfer, as Taehyun knew her, didn't like being under Belzebub.
She endured and endured, hoping to become a grand duke someday, and abandoned her power to maintain her full memories.
Helping Taehyun may have been the trigger, but it was something that would have happened sooner or later.
'She's confident, huh?'
He glanced at Gilfer.
Her expression was still blank, making it difficult to know what she was thinking.
One thing was certain: she wasn't afraid at all, even with three great demons in front of her.
'Maybe it's better this way.'
Taehyun came to Gilfer to find out if Belzebub had sealed the fairy race.
And if so, to ask about the location.
But now there were three more people to give him answers.
"The probability of getting an answer has increased."
How many demons could smile in the face of three great demons?
Especially if it was a human?
A small demon with three impressive horns, each the size of its body, stepped forward.
It was the great demon Prahra.
"I'll take care of this one."
At the same time as he uttered those words quietly.
His extended fingernails aimed for Taehyun's neck.
Taehyun easily avoided the attack.
"Oh, Prahra. You should be ashamed of yourself."
"Hehehe."
The other two demons laughed at their comrade's failed attack.
Prahra's face hardened as his pride was hurt.
It was no secret that the demon race's fingernails could extend, but Taehyun's perception ability had reached a much higher level than he thought.
"He's the key, isn't he? So he wasn't just an ordinary human."
Prahra's red eyes scanned Taehyun's body.
Even without using any special magic, he could tell that he possessed the body of a supreme demon.
"You seem more mentally sound than Gorfer."
Taehyun said, watching them use the term 'key' so casually.
"Gilfer. Can I take care of this one?"
[...]
Gilfer was silent at Taehyun's confidence.
Menaka and Deumus chuckled.
Prahra roared.
A contractor who, at best, borrowed the power of the grand dukes.
And yet.
"You look down on the great demons!!"
Without responding to the emitted fighting spirit, Taehyun and Gilfer stepped back.
"Kim Taehyun. He's not someone to be taken lightly."
"I'll take that as a yes."
"You're always so confident."
Gilfer said, and swung her extended fingernails.
Menaka and Deumus retreated to the perimeter.
They were making sure that Taehyun and Prahra's battle wouldn't be disturbed.
Prahra, realizing Gilfer and Taehyun's intentions, wore a dumbfounded expression.
A human was going to fight a great demon alone?
"Are you crazy?"
"I often hear that."
"Heh... hehe... Now I know why Belzebub wants that neck."
"Belzebub. What's the point of knowing that kind of guy's hobbies."
Ting.
[Skill Watcher's Eye (SSS) has been activated.]
[Skill Great Demon's Heart (SSS) has been activated.]
[Skill Demonization (SSS) has been activated. Specifies imitation parts.]
[Skill Demon's Saliva (SSS) has been activated. A great power awakens.]
In an instant, Taehyun's body transformed into the form of a demon.
The only difference from Prahra was that it was about twice as big.
"A mere human is using this much power..."
"Enough. What's your power?"
[...]
Prahra was silent for a moment.
"I'll kill you, insect."
His red eyes flashed, and his body filled with poison.
Kkang!!
Kkeueueueuk.
Taehyun's fingernails and Prahra's fingernails collided.
Poisonous magic intertwined, and the surrounding area began to melt.
Even in the midst of the power struggle, Prahra bared his venomous fangs to bite Taehyun's neck.
Taehyun accepted that sight with a friendly face.
"Everyone rushes in confidently at first. Right up until they get hit."
"Don't talk nonsense."
Hwaaa.
Purple magic soared from Prahra's body.
Watcher's Eye.
He could see clearly in his vision, which had turned blue and red.
The color was the same as Belzebub's power, but it was definitely a different power.
'This is his power...'
There was no harm in knowing as much as possible about the power.
'Shall we check it out?'
Without rejecting Prahra's magic, Taehyun accepted it into his great demon body.
Tsszzzzz.
The poisonous fingernails that had been resisting his were gradually shrinking.
No, it would be more accurate to say that they were withering.
"......!!"
Kahaak.
Perhaps because he liked the sight.
Prahra opened his mouth with an unpleasant laugh.
"Regression. That's my power."
"......!!"
Taehyun's face twitched at the unexpected power.
Kahaaa. Hahak. Kakakak.
'What a terrible laugh.'
"Insect, when do you want to go back to?"
Tsszzzzzz.
At the same time as his power was strengthened.
Ting.
[Skill Demonization (SSS) has been deactivated.]
In an instant, Taehyun's skill was deactivated.
Even though he quickly retreated, the magic did not give up the chase.
It intended to dominate Taehyun's body as it was.
'It only works when it comes into direct contact, huh?'
Before his magic could touch him.
Hwaaa.
Taehyun raised crimson magic.
Ting.
[Magic usage has been detected. 'Ominous Power' has been activated. Resists with a mysterious power. Resistance successful.]
The magic that was chasing him scattered like smoke due to the resistance of gluttony.
"What..."
"What, it's trash?"
At the obvious provocation.
"What...!!"
Prahra's body writhed.
Taehyun savored the sight and unleashed his original crimson magic.
"What else? It means I want your power too."
Ting.
[Skill Apocalypse (SSS) has been activated.]
Hwaaa.
Darkness fell on the area.
"I have something to ask you. I'm not going to kill you easily. Lesser demon."
At that obvious provocation.
Wrack.
Prahra's face contorted.
While Taehyun was pressing his fingernails against Prahra's,
Gilfer had just begun to engage with the two Grand Dukes.
Kkeueueueuk.
Kkang!!
Pit-.
Deumus's fingernails swept past Gilfer's chest as she parried Menaka's attack.
"What, she's not as impressive as I thought."
"She's a has-been who can't even use her power. Isn't it obvious?"
Gilfer opened her mouth at Menaka and Deumus's insults.
"Twentieth Great Demon Menaka. Nineteenth Great Demon Prahra. Eighteenth Great Demon Deumus. You've always had a tendency to act without knowing your place."
"Why don't you beg for your life instead?"
"Hey, Deumus. It's not like anything's going to change if you do that. We've decided to take this bitch's magic stone."
Gilfer shook her head.
"You guys really don't know anything. Neither the possibilities that the key holds, nor the imperfections that the Great Demon's powers hold."
[...]
[...]
What she was saying in front of two Great Demons.
"It's just that Prahra's opponent wasn't good..."
Menaka looked disgusted.
"Deumus. I'll take care of this one."
Deumus silently stepped back.
Purple magic bloomed from his body.
He used the power of the barrier to keep Gilfer from escaping.
Menaka swung her poisonous fingernails.
The 2-on-1 contest had turned into a 1-on-1 contest.
Kkaang. Kkang. Kkaaaang.
"You're pretty good, has-been!!"
[...]
Menaka mocked Gilfer, who was stably blocking her fingernails.
Suddenly.
Hwaaa.
The purple magic blooming from her body surrounded Gilfer.
She had used her power, "Falsehood."
"Why did you betray our Lord? Why did you hook up with a human?"
"Falsehood" has the power to draw the desired answer from the other party, like mind control.
Gilfer knew that fact.
She could see the magic in her red eyes writhing as if it had life.
If left alone, that detestable magic would rush to dominate her body.
"What a ridiculous power."
Hwaaa.
The dark blue magic that exploded from Gilfer's body pushed back Menaka's magic.
"......!!"
"......!!"
Not only Menaka herself, who used the power.
Even Deumus, who was watching, was surprised by the density.
Rejecting the power meant being one step above the other party.
Gilfer spread her huge wings.
"Perhaps because it's a power swallowed by Belzebub's magic, it's nothing special. Unless you try to become a Grand Duke, there is no further growth for a Great Demon."
It was only natural for the two Great Demons to be agitated by her lecturing tone.
"What nonsense are you spouting!! A fallen has-been!!"
"You're just trash who's lost their power!!"
The powers of the two Great Demons who shouted were further strengthened.
"A has-been, huh... You continue to disappoint me."
The back-and-forth so far was a joke.
Puk.
Gilfer's fingernails pierced Menaka's chest as she rushed at her.
"Did you get stained with Prahra's power? You who rely on your power seem like the has-beens?"
She seemed to like her words.
Gilfer rarely showed a smile.
"There's no point in dragging this out."
Zzzzzzzz.
Kwaddeudeu.
Gilfer pulled up her magic and unleashed the power of her horns and tail.
"Feel for yourself why the ancient Great Demons are scary. With that lump of flesh."
"Looks like they're starting to get serious over there."
Taehyun said, feeling Gilfer's soaring magic.
So she was an ancient Great Demon.
Certainly, the energy she emitted was different from the other two Great Demons.
Prahra hadn't expected the current situation either.
His disgusting face was filled with bewilderment.
"She was supposed to have lost her power...?"
An unexpected situation.
The sight of the opponent panicking always gave pleasure.
"Don't worry. You'll be less painful than those guys."
Ting.
[Skill Beast Transformation (SSS) has been enhanced.]
Chinese ancient martial art Fifth Style Penetration.
Taehyun's massive body, which bounced out without warning.
Kwang!!
Crushed the lesser demon's head.
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