RKP 501-510

     ----------------------------

501


The Earth might have been destroyed.


Hearing those words, Taehyun was momentarily stunned.


Not because he was told it was dangerous.


But simply because.


'I had forgotten.'


About his home planet.


About why he was trying to win the domain war.


'...'


Lucifer smirked, as if enjoying the reaction.


[Kim Taehyun. You're showing your emotions, unlike you. Don't worry. It's not your fault you forgot your home planet.]


"...What?"


His dazed question made him feel pathetic, even to himself.


Yet, he couldn't help but confirm.


The changes happening to him.


Even if it was through Lucifer's mouth.


[Do you still think of yourself as human?]


"..."


Lucifer continued, enjoying Taehyun's silence.


[The dignity of an Archduke. You must know that you can no longer live a normal life once you possess that power.]


Unable to cross dimensions normally.


Unable to be free from the spells that suppress his presence.


[You are no longer a mere mortal.]


As if delivering a sentence.


Lucifer confirmed Taehyun's anxiety.


[You have become an immortal, like 'us'.]


"..."


[You must have known, but it's still amusing to see such a foolish expression.]


He knew.


[I know. It's not easy to deny your own roots.]


It's not easy.


Those words couldn't simply summarize it.


'To some extent.'


He had accepted it to some extent.


The more his presence strengthened, the more he learned about ancient memories, the more he accepted the power of the divine beast.


He realized he was becoming something 'else'.


To avoid being consumed, he repeated to himself several times a day.


Who he was, and what his purpose was.


[Indeed. Judging by that expression, even the speed was unexpected.]


"..."


The end of the domain war.


It was the Doppelganger who directly consumed No Name.


But the change was also happening to Taehyun.


[The aftereffects of taking the fragment of God in a degraded state. That's why... if that's the case, it's understandable that your recovery is slow even with the help of the divine beast...]


Lucifer, who had been speaking as if he knew everything, tilted his head.


[Wait... you don't mean...]


His crimson eyes fixed on Taehyun's crimson eyes, which had begun to waver.


[You weren't just forgetting, you were starting to forget?]


"..."


[......]


The silence didn't last long.


Heh... Hehehehe....


Lucifer let out a sinister laugh.


He had realized.


That Taehyun's memories weren't just erased.


But were being erased.


That the key to the Lower Realm, which had shown endless possibilities, was revealing its weakness for the first time before him.


[Hahahaha....]


It was a mocking laugh.


Taehyun, too, was quite shocked by his own appearance and didn't stop him, and Lucifer's laughter stopped after a long time.


[Interesting. To think that I would share a similar experience with a human.]


He had come down to the Lower Realm to point a sword at the Heavenly Realm.


He had been building up strength to do so.


At some point, he had forgotten his own origins and thought of himself as a Lower Realm demon.


He told his own experience without being asked.


[To find out your weakness now... it's a shame.]


"Haa..."


Taehyun sighed.


He thought that losing oneself at the end of a long journey was a problem for the weak.


But now he saw that it wasn't.


Familiarity.


He had been deceived by that obvious word and confirmed his own shaky roots.


He stared directly at his wavering presence.


[You will get used to it.]


He said as if advising as someone who had had a similar experience.


'No.'


Forgetting is not a solution to the fundamental problem.


Taehyun.


'I.'


Needs to know more.


About what he aims for.


About what he wanted before, and what he wants in the future.


A moment's time.


Taehyun's thoughts sank deeply.


He recalled himself in the mental world he had entered countless times.


That brief moment and thought awakened Taehyun's spirit.


His opened crimson eyes regained their vitality.


He quickly escaped from the swamp of inner demons he had been falling into.


[Hooh.]


Lucifer looked at his contractor with surprise.


[My eyes are not mistaken.]


To question one's own existence.


That is not easy for mortals or absolutes.


No, rather, the stronger the presence, the harder it is to escape from inner demons once they start to fall into them.


They do not understand, they do not accept.


They cannot admit that they are wrong.


They do not listen to others and distrust everything.


Having experienced it himself, Lucifer was certain.


Once started, the questions would chain together and shake everything about the target.


But he had only wavered for a moment.


He had quickly regained his senses.


Lucifer was pleased with Taehyun's appearance.


[Indeed, a great conviction. It's no coincidence that you ate the fragment of God.]


"Now tell me. What do you mean by sending toys?"


What does it mean that the Earth might have been destroyed?


The Archduke, who had quickly recovered from the earlier confusion.


The new absolute of the Lower Realm asked, flashing his crimson eyes.


That sight was truly delightful.


[I can't help but answer.]


Lucifer couldn't help but raise the corners of his mouth.


He made Cody Cruise his contractor to suppress the fragment of God that would one day bloom.


He modified his body to enhance the power of regeneration.


To test that power, he had him face the arrogant Great Demon and the absolute who had descended to the Lower Realm.


Cody Cruise grew as Lucifer had expected.


At the time, he was trying to seize control of the Lower Realm through the domain war, so he had intended to completely take the fragment of God afterward.


He was quite pleased with the growth of his contractor.


However, he did not let his guard down.


Rather, he was wary of the possibility of the fragment of God going out of control and made various preparations.


His interest in the Interdimensional Realm was also one of them.


The Interdimensional Realm.


A world with only meager possibilities compared to the Upper and Lower Realms.


Still, he didn't think it was completely worthless.


He knew that beings called variables were born, breaking through very rare possibilities.


In Earth, the King of the Lower Realm, Kim Taehyun, and Cody Cruise were like that.


In addition, there were others in other dimensions who proved their worth and stuck their heads out.


Irregulars influenced by the fragments of the one God, just like the Archdukes of the Lower Realm.


The experiments Lucifer was conducting were similar to those conducted by the one God in the past.


Not the brilliance that the absolute of the Upper Realm imitated, but the only light.


If he could get a clue, it would help him recover his strength and deal with the fragment of the one God.


He ordered the capture of those called Archduke contractors.


Since they had survived even after accepting the powers of the Archdukes, albeit immaturely.


They were nothing more than verified test subjects.


Min Jihong, who had trained the power of Orgal and reached the limit of martial power that a contractor could possess.


Kasim Zort, the first contractor of Beelzebub and who had voluntarily transcended his species.


Lee Jungjae, who became a spare contractor through the body Kasim Zort had stolen.


Ryu Seubo, who was exposed to the magic of Mephisto and Asura, and became the contractor of Mammon, who became the Demon King.


Each and every one of them was a unique test subject.


Those guys were once again modified by Lucifer.


They had a level of presence that was difficult for anyone to easily see, except for Cody Cruise and Kim Taehyun, who were already difficult to call ordinary Archduke contractors.


"You sent those guys to Earth?"


Taehyun, who had been listening silently, frowned and asked.


[Until recently, we weren't in a cooperative relationship, were we?]


"..."


How annoying was his attitude of shrugging his shoulders indifferently while saying that.


Taehyun sighed once again.


'Those guys were alive...'


They are no longer a threat to Taehyun.


That's why he had forgotten about them before the end of the domain war.


[It wasn't me who gave orders to those failures.]


He knows.


Cody Cruise sincerely wanted the human race to be reborn.


He would have thought that he, who had been calling himself the shield of humanity, was qualified.


Therefore, in the coming era.


He would have wanted to confirm whether the current human race was worth surviving.


'Cody. What a nuisance...'


Only Yoo Ahyeong and a few top-tier players can deal with the Archduke contractors.


Considering that Lucifer's power is added to that.


'If it's the current guys, I don't know.'


I can only hope that the growth of Yoo Ahyeong and others is more than I thought.


[It seems you have made some preparations?]


Taehyun did not deny it.


[If you're thinking of going yourself, you should stop.]


"Don't worry. I'll prioritize the affairs of the Lower Realm..."


[That's not it.]


"......?"


[The Great Unification is taking place. You are the body that has the most fragments of the one God in the Lower Realm.]


He said that he could affect the surrounding space-time regardless of his will.


He said that if he made a mistake, he could be trapped in a gap in the dimension.


[Absorbing the power of God requires that level of determination. The King of the Lower Realm was in a similar situation.]


Lucifer said something more.


[-----.]


But it was not properly conveyed due to the spell.


[That's unfortunate. I'm sure you wanted to hear a lot from me.]


He asked playfully if he would like to take a look at the castle he was newly building.


I was annoyed by the situation that was more twisted than I thought.


Is that why?


"Lucifer."


[......]


The desire to win was boiling.


Desires were boiling.


Lucifer, who was suddenly called by his true name, closed his mouth.


"Aren't you curious? Who is more superior in the current degraded state."


[You're making a ridiculous provocation. Do you think I'm at the same level as other youngsters just because I'm degraded?]


"Of course not. But this is ironic. Iggmun, Orgal, Yormungandr. Those guys said that too."


[......]


"Think of it as a light warm-up."


Unlike his words.


Taehyun fully released his magic power.


It didn't take long for the restored Sky Castle to fall once again.


[Contractor. You're back sooner than I thought.]


Elven welcomed Taehyun, who was covered in wounds.


"They're not the type to listen to words."


She burst into laughter at his nonchalant attitude.


"Where's Tolkien?"


[Ah, wait.]


Clap clap.


When Elven clapped her hands, a dwarf came running from afar in a hurry.


Taehyun was momentarily embarrassed by the unfamiliar sight.


[Y, you called...]


[Dwarf, can't you walk faster?]


[I, I'm sorry... I'll be careful...]


"What is this..."


Taehyun couldn't finish his words due to the shocking situation.


[Bonyo has been training while the contractor was away. That's all.]


"......"


Taehyun was speechless at Elven's teasing.


"...What about the repair of the Dragonslayer Sword?"


[Dwarf. Is the repair of the contractor's sword finished?]


[Of course. F, Fairy King...]


[Then why don't you bring it here?]


Elven poked him with a branch, and Tolkien, startled, ran to his cabin.


Tolkien, soaked in sweat, returned with the fully restored Dragonslayer Sword in his hand.


502화


[It's, it's here….]


An unusual presence emanated from the Dragonslaying Sword in Tolkien's hand.


'The second modification by a Meister.'


The last time that guy, who returned to the Lower World, first touched the Dragonslaying Sword, unbelievable improvements were made.


If the Dragonslaying Sword didn't have the ability to resonate with the Archdukes' authorities.


It would have been difficult to achieve victory against Lucifer.


Also, I wouldn't have been able to exchange blows with No Name to that extent.


I don't know the extent of Hephaestus's skills in the Upper World, but.


At least to Taehyun, Tolkien was the best artisan.


It's the Meister's second modification.


How could I not be looking forward to it?


"Thanks."


With a short word of gratitude, I grasped the Dragonslaying Sword.


My power hasn't returned yet, but I wanted to swing it right away.


'If it had been completed before meeting the Archdukes, I could have beaten them even more unilaterally.'


Leaving that regret behind.


I gripped the Dragonslaying Sword tightly.


It didn't swing.


"……."


Because Tolkien was holding it with both hands and not letting go.


His strength is beyond that of most high-ranking species, so Taehyun couldn't easily shake him off.


"……?"


[…….]


I stared at Tolkien, who was desperately holding onto the sword.


The Meister's red eyes were trembling.


[H, 형제's battle was truly rough. Even though I sufficiently reinforced it with the bones of that Bordo, the leader of the dragon race… as I said, the self-repair ability is not unlimited.]


"Oh… okay."


Taehyun took it nonchalantly and tried to swing the sword, but.


He gripped it tightly.


Tolkien stopped him again with force.


A hurried explanation followed.


[T, there was a time when all the Archdukes gathered here. It was only for a brief moment, but I, I didn't miss that important opportunity. At that time, I was provided with some of the Dragon Lord's scales and bones. They easily gave it to me, saying it was to strengthen 형제's weapon.]


I was slightly impressed by Tolkien's effort and Hazard's charity.


"Okay, you've worked hard."


Saying that, I stroked the dwarf's head with my other hand.


It meant that I would test it myself now, so he could let go of the sword.


But.


[B, but you see. When I mixed the Dragon Lord's scales and bones, the weapon's presence was strengthened beyond my expectations. Truly, the strongest creature in the Lower World blessed with magic. Reigning at the top of the dragon race with the Dragon Heart….]


Blah blah.


Tolkien's explanation continued.


Whenever Taehyun tried to interrupt, he would know it like a ghost and continue talking.


Even when I tried to forcibly swing the Dragonslaying Sword, he clung to me almost as if hugging me, so even that was not easy.


'How did the Meister, who was full of pride, end up like this?'


I know.


All of this is to keep Taehyun here by any means because he doesn't want to be alone with Elven.


'Elven, what did you do to Tolkien?'


Taehyun knows the Fairy King's bizarre personality well.


Even so, the reason he trusted her and left the Fairy Forest was because all the Archdukes recognized Tolkien's value.


The only dwarf and Meister in the Lower World, he was an indispensable force in the upcoming race war, perhaps even more powerful than an Archduke.


Tolkien also knew that fact, so he was arrogant.


I thought it was necessary to boost Tolkien's spirits so that he could recover quickly from the hard times he had in the Upper World.


Taehyun didn't impose any particular restrictions despite Elven's complaints.


Rather, he helped him establish himself so that he could be recognized as the eleventh Archduke.


And now.


'Haa…. Elven….'


I was realizing that all that effort had been in vain.


Tolkien's appearance, holding onto the Dragonslaying Sword and not letting go, reminded me of a puppy that didn't want to be separated from its owner.


[That gabby dwarf is truly talkative. Isn't the contractor uncomfortable with that rough hand giving strength?]


Now let go of that hand.


Poke. Poke.


Elven poked Tolkien's side with a branch.


The dwarf's body flinched and he looked like he was about to cry.


He knew.


That he had to stay by Taehyun's side no matter what.


He no longer didn't know that was the only way he could survive.


[Eek…!!]


Tolkien put strength into his hands and snatched the Dragonslaying Sword from Taehyun's hand, hiding it behind his back.


A thick curse poured out of Elven's mouth at the sudden action.


[…This crazy dwarf? Can't you put it down right now? Have you finally lost your mind? Should I kill you?]


Tolkien flinched but met Taehyun's red eyes.


[형제!! This sword is no different from being made by grinding my soul. It's impossible for 형제, who hasn't recovered his strength, to wield the sword!! I will help until you get used to handling it!! Otherwise, I can't give you this sword!! I absolutely can't give it to you!!]


It was like a child's attitude.


It was a life-threatening sincerity.


[This hairy bastard still hasn't come to his senses!!]


Hwaaa.


A colorless magic rose from Elven's body.


Just with that, Tolkien's body floated into the air.


[Keuk… Keuk…. Let go… you demon…. 형제… save me….]


Tolkien struggled but didn't let go of the Dragonslaying Sword.


'This is troublesome.'


It's not difficult to forcibly take the Dragonslaying Sword.


But if that happens, the Meister's self-esteem will hit rock bottom.


The habits of artisans are no different whether they are humans or monsters.


A tamed creator is.


'Nothing more than a simple machine.'


I wouldn't be able to create such masterpieces like now.


However, there was no justification for ordering Elven, the owner of the domain.


All the Archdukes are important forces.


Like Tolkien, she was also an Archduke with an important meaning to Taehyun.


The only being who can be assimilated with the Divine Beast besides himself, and the key to raising the Lower World to the next level.


The reason why Taehyun can freely travel between the domains of the Archdukes without being assimilated with the Divine Beast is because she takes over the role.


'I'd rather fight with the Archdukes.'


Haa.


I sighed in a different sense.


There is a high possibility that the modified demons by Lucifer are rampaging on Earth.


I'm actually in a situation where I have to pay attention to these childish pranks even after finishing the domain war.


Until now, I thought this place, where unlimited magic can be used, was optimized for Tolkien's work environment.


'It's better to move to Typhon's domain soon.'


I was thinking that way.


'Wait a minute….'


One possibility came to Taehyun's mind.


Protecting the pride of Elven and Tolkien while having justification.


At the same time, a possibility that would be beneficial to Taehyun.


"Elven, wait a minute."


[Contractor. This is 본요's domain. If you are going to use the power of the Divine Beast on this hairy bastard, you must follow 본요's words.]


"I know that much."


[Then don't interfere with the education of this ill-mannered fellow.]


[형제…. Hic…. I am the only… Meister…. Keok….]


"Don't worry, Tolkien. I know that too."


Saying that, Taehyun opened his magic power.


The colorless magic suppressed Elven's power that was binding Tolkien.


"Elven. I have a proposal."


[…….]


At the resolute attitude, she looked at him with a dissatisfied expression.


"I'll have to go to Earth for a while."


[……?]


"With our proud Meister."


[Keok…. I agree…!!]


Tolkien, who escaped from Elven's magic power, hid behind Taehyun.


Soon, angry abuse poured out.


[Damn…!! I can't be with that witch even a little bit!! What Fairy King!! You crazy fairy!! Wouldn't the Demon King be much more gentlemanly!! You're like a crazy psycho fairy!! Typhon 형제 will not leave you alone!! We will take revenge with the giants!!!]


[…….]


"……."


Silence lingered for a moment at Tolkien's resentful shout.


Tsszzz-.


A huge magic power began to rise from Elven's body.


'Elven, she's already recovered to this extent.'


All the Archdukes were degraded as a result of using power beyond their limits.


Elven also had a fragment of God in her body.


There was a degradation more than Rosaria's as a sequelae of the fragment being removed, but at the same time, the size of the vessel also increased than before.


The fully recovered Elven's power was highly likely to be no less than Lucifer's.


It's a pleasant assumption just by thinking about it.


If she was just a little more rational Archduke.


'If I'm wrong, I'll have to take care of a corpse.'


Unlike usual, he didn't stop her.


I thought it wouldn't be bad to check her power at this opportunity.


[Get out of the way, Contractor.]


[형제!! Get rid of that witch right now!!]


While watching the insults and abuse of the fairy and the dwarf, he raised his magic power.


Tting.


[Skill Eye of the Dream Demon King (SSS) has been activated.]


'About 150,000.'


The degraded Lucifer's highest raised magic power was about 300,000.


'I need to accept her tantrums at least once.'


Tting.


[Skill Apocalypse (SSS) has been activated.]


Hwaaa.


Under the fallen darkness.


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


[Skill True Blood (SSS) has been activated.]


[Skill Heart of the Beast Race (SSS) has been activated.]


[Skill Heart of the Fallen Angel (SSS) has been activated.]


[Skill Heart of the Fairy King (SSS) has been activated.]


Five magic stones were spinning fiercely.


Since it endured the magic power and divine power used by Lucifer, it wouldn't be impossible to accept Elven's.


"Pour it out once."


Tsszzz-.


Hwaaaaa-.


Kiiii-.


Just by standing still, a magic power of the area was sucked into the five magic stones.


[Contractor. Do you really have to go this far?]


"A fairy and a dwarf. Because I'm in a position where I can't give up on either side."


[…You'll regret it.]


본요 is a 'witch' who doesn't know moderation.


Saying that, Elven created a sphere of magic power.


150,000… 170,000… 190,000… 220,000….


"250,000."


As if it were a wish-fulfilling jewel.


The condensed and condensed sphere of magic power floated quietly.


[Hmph. It's still not enough to handle 본요's anger.]


Above the colorless magic power.


Sssss-.


A radiance arose.


It was a collision of magic power and divine power.


'She can use it after all.'


She has a higher understanding of magic power than anyone else.


It would be even stranger if she couldn't use divine power even though she accepted the fragment of God.


100,000 of divine power added to 250,000 of magic power.


God magic power.


The concentration of power, which is expected to be at least 300,000 or more, was approaching.


[This crazy…. 형제 dodge it!! That ominous witch is trying to kill even 형제 now!!]


"Tolkien. Don't be reckless."


Rosaria and Typhon are enough for not getting along.


Tting.


[Skill Absolute Being - Horus (SSS) has been activated.]


A hand that has degraded and is clad in the divine power of the Absolute Being, along with the magic power.


Touched the sphere of God magic power.


[God magic power. It's truly a great power.]


"Yeah. If you recover completely, it will be worth seeing."


Tting.


[Skill Super High-Speed Regeneration (SSS) has been activated.]


Kwadeuk. Kwadeuk.


The exploded body was quickly regenerated.


Because even the five magic stones couldn't absorb Elven's God magic power.


500,000.


It was not a light force for an attack performed by the degraded Fairy King.


"Has your anger subsided a bit now?"


Taehyun said nonchalantly and looked at Elven and Tolkien alternately.


Elven, who had poured out a lot of energy, seemed to be in a lighter mood, and Tolkien seemed to be embarrassed by the unexpected power.


[Yeah. As expected, the only one who understands 본요 is the Contractor.]


"If I tried to understand you twice, there wouldn't be a body left."


Taehyun, who received the Dragonslaying Sword from Tolkien, muttered while realizing the degraded power.


[So. What was the intention of saying that you would go to Earth a while ago? You should know that it's impossible with the Contractor's current body condition?]


The one who has achieved the rank of Archduke cannot be free from magic.


Elven repeated what Lucifer had said.


Taehyun shook his head.


It's not.


He replied that it was something that could be done because it was now.


[I can't understand. Tell me easily.]


"Maybe. Just maybe."


A new Archduke may be born on Earth.


Episode 503


The Birth of a New Archduke.


This was an event that occurred with a slim chance over a long period.


Whether it was when Baal created the Archduke system and headed to the Upper Realm, or when the King of the Lower Realm, who was of human origin, selected new Archdukes.


Those who became Archdukes were extraordinary beings who had stood out since they were apex species, possessing remarkable presence.


All were mutants worthy of wielding great power, and there was an inevitable reason for them to possess such power.


Vampire Lord Igmun and Succubus Queen Rozaria.


They assisted the former Archduchess Lilith and the King of the Lower Realm, possessing a great vessel and presence.


Beast King Orgal.


He had stood out in the racial wars since he was an apex species.


Giant King Typhon.


He was born with a great physique and presence, a great king even without the desire for strength.


Sea Monster King Jormungandr and Demon King Gilfer.


They were born as top-tier beings among the apex species but quietly operated in the shadows for a long time, finally achieving the status of Archduke.


Dragon Lord Hazard.


She became the strongest being in the Lower Realm simply by inheriting the bloodline of Baal, the Dragon King who became the King of the Upper Realm.


Fairy King Elven and Fallen Angel Lucifer.


They also possessed great power, but they were degraded beings, one by an Archduke and the other by the Lord of the Heavenly Realm.


A being born with great presence.


A being who unified multiple races and was hailed as a king.


A being who built power in their own way over a long period.


A being who always had the potential to become the King of the Lower Realm.


That was the Archduke.


It was not an easy task even for an apex species monster living for eternity.


But a new Archduke is born among humans with finite lives?


Elven could not readily understand Taehyun's words.


[Are you serious?]


"I said 'maybe, just maybe'."


Archduke Contractors were simply contractors.


No matter how hard they struggled, the rank they could obtain was only around the upper echelon of the apex species.


Taehyun, called the Key, broke through that limit with the ability of 'Devouring'.


Cody Cruz, who possessed a fragment of God, reached the presence of an Archduke, albeit limitedly, with the ability of 'Regeneration'.


The power of the King of the Lower Realm and a fragment of God.


The possibility of another being chosen to that extent was practically nonexistent.


[Contractor. What on earth are you thinking?]


She simply couldn't understand.


Elven pressed Taehyun for an answer.


"I'm going to use the Divine Beast."


[…Divine Beast? If you're thinking of forcibly assimilating it like you did, you should give up. The Divine Beast's magic is not something a mere Archduke Contractor can handle. Unless you're already a complete Archduke, it will only hasten your death.]


Even if there was a being who could withstand the Divine Beast's magic, they would be trapped in the cycle of time and become meaningless.


The distorted flow of time could lead to the worst possible situation.


She presented a plausible hypothesis.


"It's slim, but it's still a possibility."


[…….]


"Don't worry. Your thoughts will change a bit after you hear it."


Leaving the silence behind, Taehyun's short explanation continued.


And at the end of it.


[Indeed…. It's not impossible.]


Elven's excited red eyes gleamed.


"Association President. The next report is about China…."


At Secretary Lee Jaejoon's words, Ji Jinhye could not help but frown.


He could no longer suppress the hysteria that welled up at the mere mention of that name.


The world order, which had been stabilizing, was being shaken once again because of them.


It began with a giant gate that appeared in the skies above China.


With a reaction higher than any Break ever recorded, it was only natural that the World Organization requested information sharing.


However.


The response that came back was an absurd "It's an internal matter."


Rather, they expressed displeasure and blocked information under the pretext of "state secrets."


Unilateral notification and blocked exchange.


That was when it started.


The moment when the Maims, who had lost their power, began to run wild again.


Kasim Zolt, known as the worst Main.


Min Jihong, counted as the most heinous Main.


Former Taesan Guild Leader Lee Jungjae.


Former Chinese Player Association President Liu Sibo.


The world's trash, who had come to decorate a page in history, reappeared.


The nightmares of the past began to revive in various places.


Monsters called Upper Species were summoned, and the Maims committed acts of plunder.


While the World Organization investigated the truth and the player associations of each country made political moves, the damage spread.


Ji Jinhye moved faster than anyone.


Min Jihong and Lee Jungjae.


Because their roots were in the New Korean people, because they were connected to him in some way, whether deeply or shallowly.


He could not be free from the responsibility that would follow.


"You don't have to worry. Even without Player Kim Taehyun, it's not the old New Korea."


Lee Jaejoon strengthened Ji Jinhye's plan.


The overall level of players had risen compared to when he was active in the field.


Top, Upper, Middle, Lower.


The player distribution, which had been a pyramid structure, was now an inverted triangle structure, with middle and upper-level players growing significantly.


Now, finding New Korean players in the world rankings was not uncommon, and Yoo Ahyoung showed overwhelming divine power in a recent Main subjugation, rising to the top of the world rankings alone.


Just as Taehyun had done in the past.


Now she was shouldering the title of the strongest player and enhancing the reputation of New Korea.


Was that all?


Park Sungjin, Kwon Kanghyuk, Kwak Siyang, Im Ayoung, and Ji Jinhye.


The orthodox strong who had undergone Taehyun's harsh training had grown to SSS-rank, firmly supporting the top-tier power, and some talented players led by Ahn Hyunsoo had grown to SS-rank, leading the 1st and 2nd rank forces.


Kim Taehyun.


"The seeds that child planted are just now blossoming."


Not much time had passed.


In just less than 5 years, it had become a strong nation that he had never dared to dream of in the past.


The one who created the current New Korea, Taehyun, was nowhere to be found.


That was the reason he could not get excited like other executives or players in the association.


Lee Jaejoon, who was watching Ji Jinhye's expression, continued the report.


"Former Chairman Liu Sibo's criminal acts have been acquitted. There is intelligence that he will soon be reappointed as the Chairman of the Chinese Player Association."


"It hasn't been long since they cut off the tail. They truly don't know shame."


"If they had, they wouldn't have created a situation like this in the first place."


Lee Jaejoon muttered with a bitter expression.


There was a time when New Korea was the third in Asia, pushed aside by China and Japan.


If New Korea had had the power back then.


If they could have played the role of mediator instead of a bulwark.


The world would not have become as harsh as it is now.


Even though the players' power had risen to the level of being called a strong nation.


The world was no longer a situation that could be dealt with by the individual prestige of the players.


"The world hasn't ended yet. It's not too late to make a pessimistic assessment later."


"I'm sorry."


"It's okay. Continue the report."


The disease research institutes throughout China that Night Walker had identified were listed.


Yoo Ahyoung had secretly infiltrated to take Liu Sibo's head, Park Sungjin was moving with Asisat Evi and had identified Kasim Zolt's hideout, Kwon Kanghyuk and Kwak Siyang had contacted the Saint and surrounded Min Jihong, and Im Ayoung and Ahn Hyunsoo had identified Lee Jungjae's location in Korea.


The locations had all been identified.


Now, with a single word from Ji Jinhye.


The 'battle' that would become a 'war' would begin.


"It's truly ironic. We have to endure a war to get rid of the trash."


"I agree."


He had already spent several nights agonizing over it.


The time to issue the order was not long.


"I authorize engagement with the premise of assassination. I, the Association President, will bear all international responsibility for what happens from now on. Let the affiliated players know."


“…Understood."


The crown of the New Korean Player Association President.


Lee Jaejoon bowed deeply as he watched Ji Jinhye calmly trying to bear the weight.


"I should start preparing too. I feel like I'm aging a year every day now."


"You're joking too much. I'll prepare the training room."


"I appreciate it."


Ji Jinhye, who had taken off his suit, checked his body in the mirror.


He had become SSS-rank, and aging had stopped.


Instead of the countless scars that symbolized the harsh life he had lived, he saw smoothly trained muscles.


"It's not far off now."


In the event that he retires from his responsibility as Association President.


He planned to be active as a player affiliated with the association.


'Even without that child Taehyun, they should be able to handle this much.'


Ji Jinhye headed to the training room, thinking of that day not far off.


Colombia. Santa Fe de Bogota.


"Wow~ you've become a monster while I haven't seen you."


Asisat Evi sneered as she watched Madu regenerate his severed arm.


Kasim Zolt.


Unlike in the past, when he was called an old monster.


The current him was a Demon race monster.


Even calling him a Great Demon among them wouldn't be strange.


"Kekeke. You've crossed the wall while I haven't seen you?"


"What follows degradation is sweet growth."


Asisat Evi said something strange.


Taehyun became Hazard's new contractor, and her fate changed as well.


In order to be used as a spare no less than a contractor in the lair, she went through a period of torture.


And later, at Taehyun's request, Hazard sent Asisat Evi back to Earth.


Even as a spare, she was not completely free from the Archduke's influence.


As a stark example, she had been feeling that the magic she could use had been drastically reduced for some time now.


She confirmed that Yoo Ahyoung, who could be said to be the Succubus Queen's spare, was in a similar situation.


'Territory War.'


That was her thought about the aftermath of that terrible war.


But for some reason, access to the deeper parts was blocked, so there was no way to confirm it.


On the other hand, Kasim Zolt seemed to have no restrictions on using a large amount of magic even though he did not have a contracted Archduke.


"To have that presence without any restrictions. Isn't that a bug?"


She asked Park Sungjin, who was assisting her from beside her, as if joking.


"Since when have the Maims moved while watching the situation?"


"Well, that's true too."


"Hehehe. It seems that Lucifer has gained the upper hand in the Territory War. There's no change in the fact that you have to grab the right line even in the world of monsters."


"Watch your mouth. Madu."


She warned the Main who put Taehyun's defeat on his lips.


Park Sungjin also seemed to know the general situation, so he answered by raising his sword.


"Foolish. The thoughts that bugs who have not encountered that person can have are limited."


"Work a little harder. Preparations are in full swing to create a new world."


China. Nanjing.


Crack.


Liu Sibo's body collapsed under the tentacles that wrapped around his neck.


Yoo Ahyoung, not missing the gap.


Crack.


Burst Liu Sibo's head with another tentacle.


504화


Purple mana.


Not comparable to Taehyun's.


It has reached a level that even a seasoned contractor would find sufficient.


Her attack damaged Rusebo's head so severely that it would be accurate to say it shattered.


Instant death.


Damage that even a saintess couldn't heal.


And yet.


Whoosh-.


Gray mana enveloped his body once.


In the blink of an eye, his exploded head was back.


A power more fitting to be called 'restoration' than 'regeneration.'


Yoo Ah-young quickly searched through the information implanted in her mind.


'Regeneration speed exceeding a saintess... Is it Lucifer's authority?'


She knew about the powers of the Dukes of Hell from Taehyun.


Among them, the fallen angel Lucifer possessed the power of 'regeneration.'


'The contractor is the missing Cody Cruise.'


She had reconfirmed this information through Ashisat Ebi, who was the contractor of Dragon Lord Hazard, so the information shouldn't be wrong.


'Did this guy also become a spare for Lucifer?'


Otherwise, there was no way to explain how a mere nobody could possess power on the level of a Great Demon.


'Shall we check?'


Yoo Ah-young smiled.


As the head of the Information Guild, she was confident in psychological warfare.


"Regeneration abilities that would make even a saintess cry?"


"Oh, surely you don't intend to give up with just this much, do you?"


A question for a question.


Rusebo, having held the position of association president, wasn't so easily caught.


Her smile deepened at the expected reaction.


"It's strange. I thought you'd contract with a demon king. I heard they're in the middle of a territory war over there?"


"For someone not chosen, you know quite a bit."


"Could it be that the demon king died and you switched to Lucifer? Hmm~ I can't imagine you defeating Cody Cruise."


Just for a moment.


There was a change in Rusebo's expression.


"Cluck, cluck, cluck. Life is full of surprises."


"Hahaha. Life is about slipping away unnoticed."


"You have quite the mouth. That's the charm of people from small countries, I suppose."


"I'm an educated woman. Frankly, I find this talk of small and large countries a bit pathetic, don't you think?"


"......"


Rusebo shook his head at Yoo Ah-young's flashy words.


He was no longer just an association president.


His martial prowess surpassed national power, and he could bring even great nations to their knees if he so desired.


The Great Demon Mephisto, Asura.


And Mammon, who eventually became a demon king.


He was the contractor they had chosen.


"There's always another sky above the sky. The lives of insects who don't know that are truly miserable."


Despite becoming a contractor of a demon king, he had been captured by Cody Cruise.


In the place he was dragged to, he met familiar faces and was modified with gray mana.


Cody Cruise and Kim Taehyun.


He knew that he couldn't stand against those monstrous beings, but they couldn't cross over here because of their increased existence.


Kasim Zolt, Min Ji-hong, and Lee Jung-jae, whom he considered equals.


They were all in the same boat as him.


Therefore.


"At least among the players, there is no one who can harm this body."


Chiiik.


Purple mana flared up.


Hwaaaak.


Gray mana flared up.


The two mana mixed together, emitting an existence that surpassed Yoo Ah-young's purple mana.


"Wow. This guy is really crazy."


Despite the sarcastic words, her back was damp with sweat.


If she hadn't brought out her purple mana from the start, it would have been difficult to hide her body stiffening from tension.


Fortunately, Rusebo's insight, intoxicated by his own power, was terrible.


"Transcending species makes you think a lot."


The new human race completed by inheriting the power of two Great Dukes.


There was no way he would be defeated by some spare of a succubus queen.


Rusebo showed unprecedented composure.


'Should I think of it as fortunate?'


This made it certain.


The three demons who appeared around the same time as Rusebo.


Kasim Zolt, Min Ji-hong, and Lee Jung-jae.


They also possessed power no less than this guy.


'No, I'd say the danger of Kasim Zolt and Min Ji-hong is even higher.'


They were the former contractors of the Demon King and the Beast King, respectively.


They were incomparable to this guy, who was full of flaws from being intoxicated by power.


Ashisat Ebi and Park Sung-jin were chasing Kasim Zolt.


Kwon Kang-hyuk, Kwak Si-yang, and the Saintess were chasing Min Ji-hong.


Lee Jung-jae was being chased by Im Ah-young and the players of the association.


The moment they grew to SSS-rank.


Everyone stepped into a new realm.


However.


If the targets used multiple authorities, it would be difficult to guarantee victory.


"How boring."


Ah-young spat out lightly and focused on the magic stone rotating inside her body.


Kiiiiii-.


Tsuzzzzzz-.


Drip. Drip.


The purple mana deepened.


Thump. Thump. Thump. Thump. Thump.


The opened ten tentacles blocked Rusebo's retreat.


"The Succubus Queen is considered the weakest among the Great Dukes."


She savored her mana and continued, "Not bad output for a spare. Unless you form a magic stone inside your body... Hmm? Don't tell me...."


Rusebo's eyebrows twitched at Ah-young's continuously increasing mana.


Because he realized she had formed a magic stone.


He had barely managed to form it himself after using the authority of two Great Dukes, so how could a spare like her?


He was momentarily displeased by the question.


"Hahahaha."


Laughter burst out.


A national-level player.


The woman ranked number one in the world had chosen the same path as him.


That fact gave him a strange sense of pleasure.


"The banner of justice can only be raised by those with power. I like you more and more!!"


But that wouldn't be enough.


Just as there was a hierarchy among the Great Dukes, he asserted that the power of purple wouldn't be able to do anything to him.


Ah-young smiled deeply and opened her mouth.


"The Succubus Queen's name is Rosaria. Her authority is 'mind control'."


Ting.


[Skill Amazoness's Ferocity (SSS) has been activated. Target acquired.]


[Skill Amazoness's Ferocity (SSS) has been enhanced. Mana consumption is accelerated.]


She wrapped herself in the green mana she had awakened.


Physical enhancement was sufficient.


At this rate, she would be able to maintain the next skill.


It would allow her to endure the madness of the purple mana a little longer.


"Even if you use such power now..."


"Shut up."


Ah-young widened her mad crimson eyes.


The sound of the magic stone rotating was as vivid as a typhoon.


Ting.


[Skill Complete Hypnosis (SSS) has been activated. Target acquired.]


For a moment, her crimson eyes were dyed purple.


"Follow me."


Hwaaaaaak!!!


Rusebo felt his vision reverse.


Japan. Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture.


Four men and women stood in a quiet residential area.


Min Ji-hong and the people following him, Kwon Kang-hyuk, Kwak Si-yang, and the Saintess.


"I didn't expect a demon of your caliber to move alone."


The Saintess said, looking at the huge man.


Min Ji-hong.


The Awakener of the skill Black Hole and the mastermind behind the evil guild and the Triads.


The person who joined hands with Kasim Zolt to form the Demon Cartel.


The unofficial successor of ancient martial arts in Shinhan.


The former contractor of the Beast King Orgal.


"Damn it, why don't you just give up and get caught?"


Kwon Kang-hyuk grumbled.


"If we could talk to him, we wouldn't have come this far."


Kwak Si-yang said, giving instructions to the players completely surrounding the residential area.


"Indeed. You guys don't know anything."


Brown mana rose from Min Ji-hong's body.


"It's the authority of enhancement. Be careful."


The Saintess said, wrapping her mana around Kwon Kang-hyuk and Kwak Si-yang.


They already knew about the Great Dukes and their contractors.


Three SSS-rank players.


A party consisting of the strongest tanker, magician, and healer.


If they couldn't even catch one fleeing demon without any power, they would lose face.


"Hey, you son of a bitch. What age are you living in, doing demon things?"


Kwon Kang-hyuk growled, unleashing his mana that had surpassed the wall.


It might have been different in the past.


But now, Min Ji-hong was a cornered prey.


Nothing more, nothing less.


"Guild Leader Kwon Kang-hyuk. I'll say it again, don't be careless. And no unnecessary provocations."


"Ah, why are there so many things I can't do?!"


"Even in the past, he was an existence that couldn't be dealt with unless it was Player Kim Taehyun or Cody Cruise. He must have a hidden card."


"I agree."


When even the Saintess agreed, Kwon Kang-hyuk grumbled and calmed down his excitement.


Min Ji-hong, who had been quietly watching the scene, shook his head.


"It's absurd."


Just because he had lost his power.


Just because he had been defeated by Kim Taehyun and Cody Cruise and had become a fugitive.


"You think I'd be caught by the likes of you?"


He wasn't Yoo Ah-young, who could wield the power of the Great Dukes, nor was he Ashisat Ebi.


Now and then, they were just idiots who couldn't reach him.


For them to be so relaxed against him.


"Ji Jin-hee. Has this old man gone senile?"


"You son of a bitch. You're not saving your pride by running your mouth."


"Let's get started."


"We have to go all out from the start."


"Tsk. You still don't know anything."


Min Ji-hong unleashed gray mana along with brown mana.


It didn't take long for the three top players in the world to kneel.


Shinhan, Seoul.


The largest prison facility built at Sindorim Station.


Lee Jung-jae had infiltrated that place.


No, it wasn't even infiltrating.


It was Shinhan who had lured him in using Lee Jung-soo.


As a result.


"Lee Jung-jae."


Im Ah-young called out the name of the man standing in front of the facility where Lee Jung-soo was imprisoned.


Once a classmate of Kim Taehyun's at Geonuk High School.


Now a man who had lost everything and become a demon.


The crown prince of the Taesan Group and the leader of the Taesan Guild, who had shined brightly and then disappeared.


"Demon Lee Jung-jae."


"......"


Lee Jung-jae turned his body and met her gloomy eyes.


"So it was a trap after all."


"You must have missed your father so much that you fell for such an obvious trap."


The man who formed a team with Im Ah-young.


Ahn Hyun-soo scanned Lee Jung-jae, giving instructions to the players surrounding the prison facility.


Currently, most of Shinhan's top-tier forces were dispersed, and unlike Park Sung-jin, Kwon Kang-hyuk, Kwak Si-yang, and Yoo Ah-young, who had gone overseas.


He had belatedly joined the mission to support Im Ah-young, who had remained in Shinhan and lured Lee Jung-jae in.


Already, over a hundred association players were waiting in the Sindorim Station area.


There was no way for Lee Jung-jae to escape.


"So you thought as you threw the bait."


Kilkilkik.


Lee Jung-jae let out a burst of laughter that sounded like madness.


'Has he given up?'


No.


His eyes were still alive.


"Team Leader Ahn Hyun-soo. Please step back."


"Miss... no, Team Leader Im Ah-young. Should we fight together...?"


"I don't want to reflect personal feelings in the mission... Please."


"Ah... truly a heart like an angel."


"......"


She ignored Ahn Hyun-soo's childish evaluation and unleashed her mana.


"Ice Age. Has she enhanced the skill?"


"The order to kill has been issued. You won't escape from here."


"I see. Association President Ji Jin-hee has changed a lot too."


Normally, they would have tried to capture him alive and extract information somehow.


But now, Ji Jin-hee was prioritizing his extermination over risking his life to obtain information.


"How bitter."


Im Ah-young.


Clearly, just a few years ago, she was just a rookie like him.


In those few years, he had become a demon of Chinese nationality with an order to kill.


She had become the best player in Shinhan, trusted by Ji Jin-hee.


"Life is truly."


Unfair.


As Lee Jung-jae said that, his eyes turned crimson.


A demon.


And the power he had obtained by being modified into a fallen angel, even more than a demon, flared up.


"Could someone like you understand that despair?"


Unlike the tears flowing from his crimson eyes.


Only his twisted mouth was smiling.


505


"...It's an unbelievable figure. It's even higher than Guild Leader Kwon Gang-hyuk and Team Leader Park Sung-jin...."


Cha Hyun-soo, the head of the intensive care unit and a personal junior of Ji Jin-hee, trailed off, rechecking the test results.


The physical records of SSS-rank players, of which there are fewer than twenty worldwide, are treated as top secret.


Moreover, Ji Jin-hee's records, as he also holds the position of Association President, were even more precious.


"There's no need to exaggerate. Actual combat is different anyway."


Ji Jin-hee, the person in question, didn't care much and didn't pay attention.


'At this rate, I might be able to take on Sara Collins of the United States.'


As his doctor, he had such thoughts, but he shook his head.


Ji Jin-hee was only thinking of returning to active duty and working for New Korea.


He knew that Ji Jin-hee was no longer interested in the honor of being a player.


At that moment, Chief Secretary Lee Jae-joon approached with an urgent expression.


"Association President. A report from Night Walker."


"Speak."


Lee Jae-joon opened his mouth with a stiff expression.


Kasim Zolt drew with Asisat Avi and Park Sung-jin and fled.


Yoo Ah-young subdued Ryu Su-bo and captured him alive.


Min Ji-hong left Kwon Gang-hyuk, Kwak Si-yang, and the Saintess in critical condition before fleeing.


Lee Jung-jae achieved a result similar to mutual destruction with Im Ah-young, then was captured alive by Ahn Hyun-soo.


"So, we caught two of them… I told them to prioritize killing them…"


Ji Jin-hee said with a bitter voice.


In the past, he would have been caught up in the emotion that they were also New Koreans and made the wrong decision, but not now.


He knew that once a person changed, they would not easily return.


He had to kill them.


"Association President."


Lee Jae-joon asked Ji Jin-hee for orders.


"What about the seriously injured?"


"In the case of Guild Leaders Kwon Gang-hyuk and Kwak Si-yang, there is no threat to their lives thanks to the Saintess. They will recover to a level where they can recover after about a month of rest in the intensive care unit. As for Team Leader Im Ah-young, she is currently unconscious… I think we need to see her in the intensive care unit first."


"What about the two who escaped?"


"Kasim Zolt and Min Ji-hong. Both have disappeared without a trace."


"……."


"……."


Silence fell.


"They didn't take the lives of the players chasing them and hid themselves leisurely… It can only be seen as a lure."


If they brought them in and interrogated them, they could find out their intentions.


"Can we transport Ryu Su-bo here?"


"I don't think so. There is currently a gate blockade formed on the Chinese side…."


"Tell Guild Leader Yoo Ah-young that I will leave it to her personal judgment and to return safely."


Whether she found out information or executed them immediately, it meant that Ryu Su-bo's custody was entrusted to Yoo Ah-young.


It was right after the end of the battle.


It would be difficult for other players to escape alone, but Yoo Ah-young would be more than capable of doing so.


"What about Lee Jung-jae?"


"...If Team Leader Im Ah-young kept him alive, she must have had something in mind. Start the interrogation as soon as he is transported."


"Understood."


They caught two out of the four evil demons.


It was an achievement worthy of praise, but Ji Jin-hee couldn't unfold his face due to an unknown찝찝함. (찝찝함 is a feeling of unease, discomfort, or a nagging feeling that something is not quite right.)


30 minutes before the report went to Ji Jin-hee.


"Hoo… I can't do that twice."


Yoo Ah-young muttered, releasing her purple magic power.


"You've got an interesting power in your hands?"


She asked the demon kneeling at her feet.


Due to the constantly regenerating body, she had to enter the mind world to see the match.


In real time, it was less than 5 minutes.


In the mind world, it was a year-long battle.


At the end of the fierce battle, she succeeded in destroying Ryu Su-bo's mind, but she was not unscathed either.


'Such aftereffects in just 5 minutes….'


Ataraxia.


The skill Taehyun created by fusing dozens of skills.


Once again, she realized the gap between her and Taehyun, who extensively used the skill with the authority of mind control.


At that time.


"...Why… why…."


Ryu Su-bo, who was half mentally destroyed, trembled.


It was because she couldn't understand.


She, who had been chosen by the two Archdukes, had been defeated by a mere Queen of Succubus.


By a spare of someone who was called the weakest of the Archdukes.


"Idiot. Can you get rid of that 'unbelievable' expression? I'm already ashamed that I struggled so much with someone like you?"


Yoo Ah-young mocked her to crush Ryu Su-bo's pride.


She wanted to drag her to New Korea and interrogate her, but.


'It would be impossible with my current condition.'


She had used more stamina than expected in the mind world.


Since she had entered the country secretly, there was a high risk that trying to take her out by force would escalate into a diplomatic issue.


'Extract information here and dispose of her.'


Ji Jin-hee would have said the same.


After thinking, she raised her magic power again.


Unlike Taehyun, she didn't have a high level of proficiency in the skill, so she slapped the target's cheek to reduce their self-esteem.


"Now, look here."


Tting.


[Skill Complete Hypnosis(???) has been activated.]


[Skill is activated in a limited way.]


Likewise, because Ah-young's proficiency in using her power was not high.


Ryu Su-bo had to endure the pain of scraping her brain.


[That's quite a plausible plan.]


Elven, having listened to Taehyun's explanation, assessed the possibilities.


It wasn't high, but it wasn't to the extent that it couldn't be attempted.


Rather, she praised Taehyun's plan.


[How did you come up with such a brilliant idea?]


"When you go in and out of the mind world, you get a lot of ideas."


Especially Cody Cruz, the fragment of the Unique God, Lucifer.


Recently, the people he was dealing with were not ordinary, so.


Taehyun was capable of combining information that others couldn't think of.


The prerequisite was 'The Divine Tree is raising the rank of the Lower World.'


Then, wouldn't it be possible to plant the seed of the Divine Tree in the Middle World as well?


Just like the Archdukes of the Lower World now.


'Those with potential' will grow rapidly just by being given the possibility.


'The Divine Tree's seed can be harvested by Elven's ability.'


The problem was the Middle World's existence.


Unlike the Upper World or Lower World, which could withstand any number of Absolutes or Archdukes.


Earth, Taehyun's home planet.


There was a high possibility that the planet, which would be the foundation of the Divine Tree, would not be able to withstand the immense existence.


The moment the Divine Tree's seed sprouts.


The life forms there would be annihilated because they could not withstand the immense existence.


'That's not in line with the plan.'


He recalled his past experiences.


Igmune and Jormungandr.


They were able to manifest on Earth by lowering their existence to the level of SSS-rank monsters.


As it happened, Taehyun had also undergone 격락(gyeokrak, which means being downgraded in power or status), so.


He unintentionally gained a possibility.


Was that all?


[Connecting other dimensions of the Middle World to integrate existence... Is that Lucifer's plan?]


"No."


He knew that there were other dimensions in the Middle World through the fragment of the Unique God, but the one who first came up with this plan was Cody Cruz.


It was his work, who had now died.


Kasim Zolt, Min Ji-hong, Ryu Su-bo, Lee Jung-jae.


No matter how great their power, they cannot create new life.


He planned to connect the Middle Worlds of other dimensions to each other using modified demons.


Among the many dimensions, there would be some that are more advanced than the civilization achieved by Earth's humanity.


Cody Cruz wanted.


The survival of the fittest.


For the humans he had protected so far to survive in their own way.


To achieve a stronger existence.


Even though the method was radical.


His intention was still worthy of being called a guardian of humanity.


'Well, it's찝찝함 to use demons for that.'


Especially since they were international terrorists, not just ordinary demons.


He could only hope that Cody Cruz had put some safety devices in place.


[So, what is this body's role?]


Tolkin, who had been listening quietly, asked.


Taehyun had clearly said that he would take him to Earth too.


"Even if the existence of the Middle World is strengthened. It will be difficult to withstand the flowering of the Divine Tree right away."


Even the Lower World had to wait for a time that far exceeded the life of a human being.


Taehyun, who needed an Archduke for the next Tribal War, didn't have much time.


[Then?]


"I'm thinking of building a tower."


[Hoo.]


[...Indeed.]


Elven and Tolkin, who understood Taehyun's words, shone their eyes.


Surround the Divine Tree with a tower to prevent the existence from leaking out, and connect each floor of the tower with the top-level species of the Lower World for management.


That way, it would be possible to reduce sacrifices and enable customized growth that matches the player's skills.


One thing to note is that it is unknown how long it will take to build the tower.


[Don't worry. With the support of Bon-yo and the craftsmanship of the dwarves, we can quickly specify the shape. When should we start?]


Without any time to spare.


"We can start preparing from now on."


Preparation to go to Earth didn't take long.


Tolkin packed a bundle of his tools, and Elven compressed part of the Divine Tree into the form of seeds.


And.


[It will sting a little.]


The Divine Tree's branches that bound Taehyun's body absorbed magic power and divine power.


To 격락(gyeokrak) again to get through the gate.


From SSS to SS. From SS to S. From S to AAA.


Watching the ranks he had built up one by one was a fresh experience.


Soon, the rank dropped to E.


"I think I 격락 too much."


[That's how free you are from magic. Don't worry. Bon-yo will also do her best to recover until you return.]


She said that she could concentrate more on the assimilation of the Divine Tree because there were no annoying dwarves.


She told him to go out and get some air until then.


The more complete Elven's recovery, the faster Taehyun's recovery can be expedited.


She waved her hand and a gate to Earth opened.


[Don't be too late.]


"Okay."


Taehyun crossed the gate.


When it was time to leave, Tolkin, who had become arrogant, opened his mouth to Elven.


[Hey, the impoliteness I committed to this body….]


But before he could finish speaking.


Thud.


Tolkin's body was swallowed by the gate by the branch that Elven had hit.


[A new Archduke… I'm looking forward to it.]


Watching the disappearing gate, she buried herself in the Divine Tree.


The first thing that came to mind when he crossed the gate was the wave.


A wave of magic power.


It felt like being in the Sea of ​​Magic.


It was an experience he had never had before crossing the gate.


A tower with the seed of the Divine Tree.


If that plan succeeds, it will be possible to reduce the aftereffects like now.


Many thoughts came to mind.


The Doppelganger and the Lower World King's plan.


Asmodeus and Baal's plan.


No Name and the existence of the Upper World.


No Name said that the Lower World King was dead.


'There are various forms of death.'


What the Lower World King faced was not simply a physical death.


For some reason, the Lower World King joined hands with the Upper World King.


'He's being forgotten at the risk.'


The evidence was that Taehyun's memory was not intact either.


'You need the Upper World King's key to prevent your memory from being erased.'


The fragment of the Unique God, No Name.


It was the advice he gave Taehyun just before he disappeared.


Meeting Asmodeus without any preparation is suicide.


He had to recover the downgraded power before that.


By the time he sorted out his thoughts, the transfer was over.


He could see the dungeon.


High Kraken Zelga.


He should be able to see the space of the guy Taehyun had left alive in preparation for moving from the deepest part, but.


"...Why."


Taehyun couldn't help but be embarrassed to see the existence spreading wings of radiance in front of him.


[Is this the first time we've greeted each other like this?]


It would have been what Lucifer, who was not a Fallen Angel but the owner of the Celestial World, looked like.


Thinking that, he put the identity of radiance in his mouth.


"Michael."


[Nice to meet you. Key to the Lower World King.]


Angel.


The owner of the 1st Celestial World smiled.


506


Mikael.


The one who defeated Lucifer, the master of the First Heaven, creating the Archangel Lucifer.


The strongest being among all the absolute beings and masters of the ten heavens.


The strongest enemy I thought I would only see when the Race War began was right in front of me.


Just being in his presence is suffocating.


'...Not good.'


He was weakened by the aftereffects of the Territory War and voluntarily reduced his power to come to Earth.


If the being in front of me so much as twitched a finger.


'I'll die.'


Only a hopeless future can be imagined.


I didn't carelessly use magic.


I didn't reveal my fighting spirit.


I had to hide my weakened state and figure out the other person's purpose.


'It's not time to die yet.'


That thought filled my head.


[You're cautious. That contradicts the assessment that you're a battle-crazed madman.]


"......"


I avoided Mikael's scrutinizing blue eyes.


In my current state, I felt like he could read my thoughts just by looking at me.


My boasting 'Nightmare King's Eye' and 'Absolute Being's Eye' wouldn't work either.


However, the reaction Taehyun tried to hide came from an unexpected place.


[Ah... Ah... Why...]


Tolkin.


The Lower Realm Meister who crossed the gate with me was trembling.


The past days of being suppressed by the Upper Realm's absolute beings.


Forgotten traumas were resurfacing.


Tolkin being subdued would be the worst situation for Taehyun as well.


Swish.


Taehyun stepped in front of Tolkin.


He blocked the scrutinizing gaze with his body.


[......]


Mikael's blue eyes focused on Taehyun.


"What's a Heaven Realm master doing in the Middle Realm?"


[Is there a reason I should answer? Or is it bravado to hide your fear?]


"......"


He's sly.


It felt like facing Lucifer.


No, their appearances were so similar they could be twins.


They're beings who can change their appearance at will.


There must be a reason they stick to this appearance.


Thinking that, I opened my mouth again.


"I thought you weren't interested in the Race War until one side moved?"


[Did you learn that arrogance from Lucifer, or is it confidence you can show because you won the Territory War? Or maybe...]


Are you thinking you can control the start and end of the Race War at will because you have the Lower Realm King's Key?


Even without a mixture of fighting spirit and murderous intent, I felt an irresistible pressure.


I felt a holy sense of duty and sacredness in every word.


If Taehyun were a believer in God, he would have knelt down and pledged allegiance.


'It's a good thing I'm irreligious.'


While I was having such frivolous thoughts, silence fell.


During that brief time, I devised a way to escape from here.


'Is that Zelga guy dead?'


The High Kraken, the highest-ranking familiar of Jormungandr.


I secretly searched for the presence of that guy, which I couldn't feel.


As if he knew what I was thinking, the radiance composing Mikael fluctuated.


[I didn't harm the owner of the dungeon you specified by coordinates. In the first place, this place is a space called a personal space. You and the dwarf haven't arrived at your destination yet.]


"......!!"


[If you didn't notice, it seems the effort to make it similar was worth it.]


He twisted the coordinates of the gate just before completely crossing over to the Middle Realm.


So he was telling me not to bother with unnecessary efforts.


[Don't worry. I didn't set up this meeting with the intention of harming you.]


"...What are you up to?"


I'm not naive enough to believe the enemy's words.


Taehyun circulated the magic within his body.


'Zelga's dungeon isn't far away. One Gate Apostle would...'


I wouldn't be able to beat Mikael, but I could at least get Tolkin out.


[That's not a recommended choice. Forcing yourself in your weakened state won't lead to good results, will it?]


Mikael answered as if he knew everything Taehyun was thinking.


"......"


My thoughts are being read.


That's because the number of options I can think of is limited when our power isn't similar.


[Did you really think you could hide your weakened state by hiding your magic?]


Mikael flicked a finger, which was stained with radiance.


Divine power surged.


Dddddd.


The silent space began to tremble.


The level Taehyun reached at the end of the Territory War.


1 million magic power and 1 million divine power.


He lightly drew out power comparable to that with just a flick of his finger.


'At least 2 million... or more divine power.'


Gulp.


I swallowed dry saliva without realizing it.


[That's probably the level you reached in the Territory War.]


A huge amount of divine power constricted my body.


Because Tolkin let out a scream-like groan, Taehyun had no choice but to release his magic power.


Tting.


[Skill Nightmare King's Eye (E) has been activated.]


[Skill Absolute Being's Eye (E) has been activated.]


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


[Skill Beast Clan's Heart (E) has been activated.]


[Skill Fallen Angel's Heart (E) has been activated.]


[Skill Fairy King's Heart (E) has been activated.]


I opened my red and blue eyes and rotated the five magic stones.


Even though they were activated at E rank.


Anyway, it wasn't intended for combat.


I prepared the most optimal state to activate 'Gate Apostle'.


But.


Sssssss.


The divine power that had been raging like a storm suddenly subsided as if a mouse had died.


"...What are you doing?"


Taehyun asked, putting his hand on Tolkin's trembling head.


Magic power connected.


With this, Taehyun could get Tolkin out of here at any time if he wanted.


Of course, only Tolkin would be moving.


It would be fortunate if that alone averted the worst.


[You're trying to push yourself again. Besides, that's the wrong choice. Wouldn't it be more useful for the subsequent Race War to get your body out rather than the dwarf?]


"Lucifer. No, Lucifer would have reacted like that."


Archangel Lucifer.


Former Master of the First Heaven, Lucifer.


The reason I mentioned him was to provoke Mikael's weak spot.


As far as Taehyun knew, the two of them were like cats and dogs...


"......?"


The radiance fluctuated violently.


I knew that was what happened when the celestials of the Upper Realm laughed.


[Lucifer. There are only a handful of people who can confidently say that guy's name in front of me. And to think it's for the purpose of provocation... Other Heaven Realm masters would definitely have shown a similar reaction.]


"......"


[I'll say it again, Kim Taehyun. Lower Realm King's Key. I didn't come here with the intention of harming you.]


Although it's impossible to watch the Territory War, living for a long time allows you to understand various variables.


He muttered incomprehensible words.


Lest Taehyun do something foolish.


Mikael spewed out words he hadn't even asked.


[You're probably trying to integrate the dimensions of the Middle Realm to create new Archangels, right? You're taking that dwarf to bloom the seed of the Divine Tree.]


"Don't play tricks."


I strengthened my magic power.


[There's no need to be wary. Didn't I say I was watching the Territory War? I was actually quite surprised.]


Ignoring me, he strengthened his divine power.


[…I thought the fragment of the Only God would fall to Lucifer.]


Though weaker compared to when he was the Master of the First Heaven.


He said that if things went according to plan, Lucifer would have absorbed the fragment of the Only God and recovered his former power almost perfectly.


[I wanted to see. The face of the guy who interfered with that guy's plan and snatched the position of Master of the Lower Realm.]


He said he wanted to directly face the existence of the key chosen by the Lower Realm King, the power of reincarnation that can be said to be the authority of the Only God.


The red and blue eyes deepened with the strengthened magic and divine power.


[Yes, it's natural to be wary. It would be difficult to have such a relaxed conversation if we met on the battlefield.]


Ignoring the message that my magic and divine power were insufficient, Taehyun maintained his strengthened eyes.


[Conversely, if it's now, after devouring the fragment of the Only God, before the Heaven Realm masters move directly.]


It was the right time because Taehyun, who was weakened and had no choice but to prioritize conversation, was in that state.


[Judging from your appearance, you seem to be having trouble completely absorbing the power of the fragment.]


"You're making a firm statement."


Could I block that guy's attack even once with the current 'devouring'?


'No, I have to do it.'


Tolkin is essential for this plan.


I have to somehow keep him alive and get him out.


That thought ran through my head.


[There's no need to bluff. I'm thinking it's fortunate that you, not Lucifer, took the power of the fragment. Lower Realm King. Like that guy did, you will eventually digest the fragment.]


But.


[It's a pity that time is not on your side.]


300 years.


[It will take about that much time in Earth's time.]


Taehyun's face twitched for a moment.


He was flustered by the fact that it would take longer than he thought.


[I'll help you. So that you can digest the power of the fragment faster.]


So that the Archangels can escape from the swamp of weakening.


What's the catch?


I deliberately didn't say such words.


I couldn't be sure of his true intentions, which couldn't be seen even with red and blue eyes.


[Killing you in your current state is easier than killing a bug. Including the dwarf trembling behind you.]


So.


[There's no reason to reject the offer this body is making.]


Just listen to what I say.


He commanded.


[I'll shorten the time to digest the fragment of the Only God. I'll also help the dimensional integration of the Middle Realm to be stable.]


Thus.


[I'll help you win the Race War.]


"What...?"


The unexpected words cracked my poker face.


[The deal has something to give and something to take. What I want in return.]


Is to eliminate 'The Void Record'.


Taehyun's poker face completely crumbled.


It was an unexpected proposal.


"Eliminate the Void Record?"


I couldn't help but ask back.


[Simply touching the Void Record is possible for the Fairy King or Heaven Realm master who has regained their power. But what I want is complete annihilation.]


"......"


The series of incomprehensible words was absurd.


Only belatedly was I curious about his proposal.


[Do you know why the Lower Realm King suddenly disappeared?]


"......!!"


[The Lower Realm King, that guy is--- ----. -----.]


He said something, but there was noise.


[Is the spell being applied even here? What a vicious guy.]


"What are you trying to say?"


[To win the Race War, the power of the Lower Realm alone is not enough. Especially not now when all the Archangels of the Lower Realm are weakened.]


The Archangels of the Lower Realm have weakened.


It would be faster for the Lower Realm King's spell to be lifted than for Taehyun to digest the fragment of the Only God and elevate them again.


[The Fairy King who has merged with the Divine Tree is recovering quickly, but.]


He said that she alone would not be able to stop the Absolute Beings and masters who noticed the signs.


[All the answers are at the end of the Race War.]


So.


[Accept my help.]


While going to the Middle Realm and achieving what you aim for.


[I'll delay the attacks of the Heaven Realm masters.]


He made an irresistible proposal.


507


SSS-Rank monster Asmodeus.


He, who was a porter, was killed by that calamitous monster.


When he regressed and gained a new life.


At the time, he thought of it as compensation for the life he had lived as a loser.


At the moment of death, he achieved the awakening he had always longed for, and met the Underworld King to gain a new skill.


Awakening, regression, new skill.


Such fortuitous events happened in just one day.


He felt like he had become the protagonist of a novel.


He needed a goal for his new life.


Was it because of his previous life as a loser?


To become the best player.


To become the best player in Shinhan and the best player in the world.


To avenge Hanbit Guild's party and Asmodeus, who had led him to his death.


At first, that was enough.


Looking back now, it was a very cute goal.


Unbeknownst to him, things were afoot in the Middle World, called Earth.


In the Abyss, called the Underworld, the Archdukes were fighting for power.


In the Celestial World, called the Upper World, the Absolutes and their masters could devour the Underworld and the Middle World at any time.


He was just in the Middle World.


In that place, which was just one of many dimensions, he was trying to become the best among those who were called insects by the beings of the Upper and Lower Worlds.


It was pathetic.


Later, he met an Archduke and learned that various authorities existed.


He learned that the skills of the Awakeners were related to their authorities.


He learned that his 'Devour' was the authority of the Underworld King.


He learned of the existence of the doppelganger in the mindscape.


The more he grew, the more he learned, and responsibility followed for 'remembering' things.


He could have avoided it.


He could have acted as if he didn't care that Shinhan was being eaten by the Fiends, or that the Underworld was being eaten by the Upper World.


He could have said that the Underworld King's plans had nothing to do with him.


He could have just enjoyed the power he had been given.


But, coincidentally.


Taehyun's character was not like that.


Perhaps it was because of his past, when he was despised as an unawakened person.


Perhaps that was why the Underworld King had chosen Taehyun.


He wanted someone with a strong sense of self and a high expectation of growth.


Someone with a strong sense of humanity who could bear the burden of responsibility.


A human who was on the verge of death at the same time as awakening.


Perhaps he had read those values in Taehyun, who had once been of the same species.


No.


'It's uncertain.'


So he thought he should meet him and hear it directly.


'The reason why he regressed me.'


Even though he was already such a great being that he was called the Underworld King.


Why he didn't come forward himself and instead delegated the responsibility.


'I need to ask.'


He resolved.


It was the moment when his second goal after regression was born.


A prelude to the race war.


A territory war.


He moved busily to solve the immediate problems.


He subjugated the Archdukes of the Underworld one by one and made contracts with them.


He used the Absolutes of the Upper World to obtain a new power called Divine Power.


He risked his life to face Lucifer, the strongest in the Underworld.


In the process, the fragment of the Absolute Being was awakened, he lost a comrade, and he mastered the power of Divine-Fiend Power.


And.


He plummeted.


The growth he had built up in his body shattered.


The Archdukes he had contracted with became weaker than ever before.


It was a terrible result for completing such a huge quest as the Territory War.


'So, do I regret it?'


He had asked himself in front of Cody Cruz's tombstone.


No.


It was a path he had already chosen and moved forward on.


He had no intention of turning back.


He didn't want to regret it.


He just wanted to.


'To complete the race war in order to meet the Underworld King.'


He decided to focus on putting together the last puzzle that he hadn't completed.


He would meet the Underworld King.


He would use everything he could in the process.


But.


'I don't intend to be used and thrown away.'


That was why.


Michael, who could be said to be the last enemy of the race war.


He didn't accept his sweet offer.


"I think you're missing something important."


He no longer avoided his gaze.


"Why me?"


Once by Lucifer.


Once by Michael.


He overcame the temptation of the Fiend twice in a short period of time.


[...]


The Lord of the 1st Celestial World was silent for a moment at the confident question.


It was because he saw that Taehyun didn't readily accept his offer, and he caught a glimpse of the various emotions that flashed through his red eyes in a short time.


[You must know that the Underworld King's roots are the same as yours.]


"I know."


That he too was a human who had accepted heterogeneous power.


[He has led the race war several times, and has collided with all his might.]


He said that at first he had also looked down on the existence of humans, but now he acknowledged it.


And Taehyun was.


[Godslayer. He resembles that arrogant one. Perhaps that is why he chose you as the key.]


"Aren't the Lords of the Celestial World supposed to follow the Upper World King?"


[You ask a question that cannot be answered. That too will be known when the race war is over.]


As these things usually go.


[There is not much time left.]


"What?"


[It doesn't matter what choice you make. I was planning to do this from the beginning.]


Hwaaa.


Michael's radiance settled on Taehyun.


Tring.


[The countdown for the quest 'Race War' has begun.]


[719 hours 59 minutes 59 seconds...]


An incomprehensible countdown began.


[That is the amount of time you can stay in the Middle World.]


That time was the maximum amount of time that the Lords of the Celestial World could avert their eyes.


He told him to finish what he was trying to do by then.


His Personal Space began to collapse.


Tring.


[The skill Apostle of the Gate(E) has been activated. Identifying the target.]


[Coordinates have been identified. Movement begins.]


[Let me give you one piece of advice.]


While the skill was being forcibly activated, Michael's voice was heard.


[The connection of dimensions does not only mean an increase in existence. The race war is not limited to the Upper World or the Underworld.]


'What does that mean?'


He moved his lips, but couldn't open his mouth.


[I hope you have a pleasant journey.]


With those words, the space completely collapsed.


Tring.


[Awakening rank has been adjusted to E.]


[All skill ranks have been adjusted to E.]


[The use of the unique skill Devour(E) is restricted.]


[Skill use is restricted.]


[Physical stats are restricted.]


He opened his eyes, listening to the messages in the status window.


Familiar air of the Underworld.


This time, he knew that he had arrived at the dungeon he had been aiming for.


Tolkin was lying unconscious at his feet.


"Zhelga."


High Kraken.


Taehyun called out the name of the dungeon owner.


If someone had appeared in his territory, he would have shown his face long ago, but for some reason, he still hadn't appeared.


'First, I need to figure out the situation.'


He opened the status window.


[Physical Stats]


Name: Kim Taehyun


Age: 28


Rank: E(???)


Strength: 300 Stamina: 300 Speed: 300 Magic Power: 300 Divine Power: 300 Charisma: 1400


Fatigue: 60%


Remaining Magic Power: 120/300


"What the..."


Taehyun couldn't help but be flustered by the numbers that appeared before his eyes.


He hadn't yet fully absorbed the fragment of the Absolute Being and hadn't received proper maintenance.


He had voluntarily plummeted to E rank in order to cross over to Earth.


But.


'These physical stats are ridiculous compared to the old E rank.'


Taehyun was flustered because of his age.


His age, which had clearly been listed as 23 just before, was now 28.


It meant that 5 years had passed without him realizing it.


'Did the flow of time get mixed up when I crossed over?'


He knew that a huge existence could affect the flow of time.


He had deliberately plummeted his existence with the help of Elven.


Even so, it seemed that there was still a difference of 5 years.


"This is embarrassing."


5 years is not a short time.


Rather, it was amazing that the current dungeon was still intact after that time.


If SSS-rank players formed a party, it wouldn't be too difficult to subdue the plummeted Zhelga.


Taehyun's gaze shifted from physical stats to quests.


[Quest]


Race War(???) - ???(30%)


Countdown(???) - (???)


[718 hours 57 minutes 59 seconds... 58 seconds...]


1 hour had passed in a short time.


He recalled the words that Michael had unilaterally said.


'Is it like an appointed time?'


Taehyun hadn't accepted the offer.


He had simply said what he had to say and that he would prevent the Lords of the Celestial World from invading the Underworld as much as possible.


The Countdown quest was likely something that he had created and imprinted on the status window.


It seemed that even Archdukes could easily register something in the form of a skill.


'Not bad.'


He had bought time in which the safety of the Underworld was guaranteed.


It was difficult to believe his words as they were, but for now, he would have to finish his business here and return within a month.


'Hmm... Skill restrictions are still a big deal.'


The use of skills such as 'Devour', 'Rampage of the Deep Sea', 'Wrath of the Dragon', 'Great Fiend Transformation', 'Great Demon Transformation', 'Saliva of the Demon King', 'Primordial Element', 'Ruler of Desire', 'Fairy's Blessing', 'Omen of Evolution', 'Heart of the Great Demon', 'True Blood', 'Heart of the Beast Race', 'Heart of the Fallen Angel', 'Heart of the Fairy King', 'Absolute Being - Horus', and 'The Deceiver' was impossible.


Among the major skills, the only ones that could be used were 'Apocalypse', 'Memorize', 'Apostle of the Gate', 'Ataraxia', 'Eye of the Absolute', 'Eye of the Dream Demon King', and 'Super-Speed Regeneration'.


Even those seemed to have terrible output because they were measured as E rank, but it was a situation he had experienced once in the Upper World.


'The skills I used to fuse should also be usable.'


He didn't know how much the level of the players had grown in the past 5 years, but this would be enough for now.


"I didn't come here to fight..."


Before he could finish those words.


"......"


He focused on the front at the subtle sign of someone.


Sss. Sssss. Sssssk.


He felt footsteps suppressing their presence in the distance.


Footsteps that Taehyun would never have felt if he had been an ordinary player.


'Stealth...?'


Based on his past level, it was a proficiency that would be lacking even if it was at least an SS-rank player.


The problem was that he felt a strange hostility from the being approaching Taehyun.


'Where did Zhelga go... Well, I'll find out by catching him and beating him up.'


Thud.


He sat down in a cross-legged position.


To induce the opponent's carelessness.


5 years had passed in a short time.


It was natural to be cautious in a situation that had not yet been grasped.


Very slowly, he circulated the E-rank magic power inside his body.


Fortunately, his senses hadn't dulled, and a considerable amount of magic power circulated throughout his body.


This was a level that could be considered light physical enhancement.


Tring.


[The skill Eye of the Dream Demon King(E) has been activated.]


Ssssss.


His eyes were briefly stained with a faint red hue.


The existence that had been hiding, which had only been felt as a faint presence until now, revealed itself.


He was wearing a black robe from head to toe, and his face was covered with a mask.


With a short sword held in reverse in his hand, he looked like a typical assassin.


It was an outfit often worn by assassination-type players and fiends in the past.


The fabric and design were a little.


'They look cheap.'


That was when.


"......"


"......"


Taehyun, who was sitting cross-legged and scanning the front with curious red eyes.


The masked man, who was approaching slowly as if aiming for prey, met in the air.


The masked man's footsteps stopped.


"Hello?"


With an awkward smile.


Tring.


[The skill Ataraxia(E) has been activated. Identifying the target.]


It was Taehyun who greeted him first.


508


The masked man.


The eyes of the man, who was clearly an assassin, seemed to widen for a moment before narrowing.


Thud.


He knelt before Taehyun, who was sitting cross-legged.


It was because the magic of the skill 'Ataraxia' had infiltrated his mind.


'Is this all?'


Originally, it would have been possible to scan the opponent's memories as if they were on the palm of his hand.


But with a skill that had fallen to E-rank, he could only gather fragmentary information.


The man's name was Dokgojin.


Age 35.


A famous assassin from the Central Plains, and a member of the Demonic Cult….


Suddenly.


Tring.


[The target's resistance is increasing.]


[The target's resistance is rapidly increasing.]


'Hmm…?'


The inflow of information stopped with the sudden message.


"Ugh…ah…ah…."


From a groan mixed with pain to a scream.


From a scream to a shriek, to a shout.


"Ka…ha…ah…!!"


The energy surging from the man's body began to resist 'Ataraxia.'


This happened before Taehyun could even strengthen the skill.


'Eyes of the Dream Demon King' opened in a degraded state.


In those crimson eyes, he could see the formless energy that bloomed around the man.


'It's not magic.'


Red shimmer.


An unknown energy that even Taehyun would have had difficulty grasping if it weren't for his demon eyes.


Was that all?


The man's presence, which was only at the SS-rank player level, quickly soared.


SSS-rank.


It was comparable to Yua-yeong, whom he had last met.


Of course, he didn't think she had been idle for the past five years.


But it was not a level to be ignored.


Tring.


[Skill Ataraxia(E) is canceled.]


[Skill Ataraxia(E) cannot be used.]


[Cooldown is being measured. Time limit….]


Hwaaa.


Just as the haze seemed to intensify, 'Ataraxia' was finally released.


'The fact that the cooldown appeared means the skill has been completely nullified….'


Taehyun, who was still sitting cross-legged, instinctively tilted his head back.


Whoong.


In a brief moment.


A gleaming blade swept past with an eerie sound.


It was undoubtedly an attack aimed at his Adam's apple.


'Look at this?'


He rose to his feet, watching the man retreat without further attack.


The man was gasping for breath, as if he hadn't completely recovered from the aftereffects of 'Ataraxia.'


He brought his hand to his neck and found red bloodstains.


It wasn't even a minor injury.


But it was significant that an attack from someone who had not transcended mortality had worked on Taehyun.


"Interesting."


The Earth he had come to after ending the Territory War, with all sorts of restrictions, was now five years in the past.


In that situation, the unknown assassin he encountered had not only broken his skill but had also injured the degraded Archduke's body.


How long had it been since he felt such interest in a fellow 'human'?


'Elven. It seems things aren't going to go as predictably as you thought.'


Elven had said that the Interdimensional World would not be able to withstand Taehyun's presence if he reached the level of a full Archduke.


Even if the degraded Taehyun limited his power, there would be some time fluctuation.


He checked the time that was being counted down even at this moment.


[The connection of dimensions doesn't just mean an increase in presence. The Race War isn't limited to the Upper or Lower realms.]


He recalled what Michael had said just before he crossed over to Earth.


'Did that guy know?'


That the dimensions of the Interdimensional World had already been connected.


That those with immense power had begun to appear in the integrated Interdimensional World.


Earth and Abyss.


He couldn't freely cross the two worlds he used to travel between so naturally.


Just like the King of the Lower World he had seen in his memories.


Taehyun had also reached a similar level.


The corners of his mouth naturally lifted.


It was from this moment that it all began.


'It means we're finally on the same starting line.'


He laughed at the liberating feeling.


He stared at the man he hadn't completely identified.


The assassin of the Demonic Cult, 'Dokgojin.'


He had only read his memories briefly, but it was clear that the man was not from this world.


"Are you the strongest in your world?"


The man muttered something to Taehyun's question, but it was unintelligible.


A language he had never heard before, either before or after his regression.


It was somewhat similar to Chinese, but even that was not certain.


Swish.


The man raised the blade that had targeted Taehyun's neck.


Hwaak.


The red haze surged around the man, who had completely broken free from Ataraxia.


Now that he looked at it, the weapon he was holding didn't seem ordinary either.


Because he was fully accepting the energy emanating from his body.


If he awakened the magic stone within his body, the cooldown of Ataraxia would be quickly resolved.


'But there are other ways to get information besides Ataraxia.'


And Taehyun was a believer in that method.


He once again circulated the magic within his body.


He was certain.


That the integration of dimensions had progressed considerably without any separate intervention.


The man before him, comparable to the Yua-yeong of the past.


Dokgojin, a member of the Demonic Cult, was the result.


"Of course, you're not going to want to talk."


The murderous intent mixed with energy was pressing down on his body.


It was ridiculous, but the current Taehyun was not at a level that could be easily ignored.


Tring.


[Skill Stone Skin (E) has been activated.]


[Skill Stone Skin (E) has been enhanced.]


Duddeuk. Deudeuk.


The first skill he had obtained through 'Devour.'


His body hardened as he used the low-level skill after a long time.


He had further strengthened his body to engage in reconnaissance.


The tension from the National Competition of the past rose up.


Undeterred by the opponent's murderous intent, he reached out his hand.


"Kim Taehyun."


"……."


Silence lingered for a moment.


The man's figure moved quickly.


A movement he would have missed if it weren't for the Eyes of the Dream Demon King.


Kkak.


The blade wrapped in red energy cut past Taehyun's hand.


Kkak. Kkak. Kkagagak.


He slashed at his arm, neck, shoulder, and head.


Each and every one aimed at points that could be considered human vital points.


Drip.


Belatedly, blood flowed from the areas where the man's sword had been allowed.


It had pierced through the suit made of dragon scales and injured his body, which had been strengthened.


It was a power that exceeded expectations.


"A type that focuses on speed rather than strength. Well, you can tell that much just by looking at the outfit."


Kkak. Kkak. Kkagagak.


While he was calmly speaking, the man's blade once again slashed past his body.


He thought that now was the opportunity, with the opponent being careless.


It wasn't a bad decision.


"Aiming for the vitals is good. But, no special skills or anything?"


"……."


The man's face hardened at the nonchalant reaction.


Even minor injuries can accumulate into major injuries.


He had made considerable scratches on a body that could not be called human, and the blood flowing from various parts of his body could by no means be dismissed as a minor injury.


Yet he was smiling?


"Shall we check your durability somewhere?"


Taehyun's crimson eyes curved like a crescent moon.


"……!!"


The man belatedly tried to pull back, but Taehyun was faster at closing the distance.


Kwok.


"Where are you going?"


He twisted the wrist of the man holding the blade.


Eudeuk.


Not the sound of bones breaking, but of bones shattering.


He could see the groan that leaked from behind the mask and the distorted gaze.


What happened next was something even Taehyun was amazed by.


Eudeudeudeu…. Kwok!!


The man spun his body around the captured hand as an axis, kicking Taehyun in the neck.


He accurately struck the cervical vertebrae in an incomplete posture.


Even a typical tanker would be in danger from an attack like this.


Taehyun also staggered, feeling a tingling sensation.


Tring.


[The enhancement of Skill Stone Skin (E) has reached its limit.]


[Mana consumption is accelerating.]


Kwaduk!!


He put even more strength into the hand he was holding.


"That hurts."


He brought his other hand to the man's solar plexus.


An ancient Chinese martial art he hadn't used on a human body in a long time.


First Form, Releasing Force.


Kwang!!


The man spat out blood along with the sound of something breaking.


Even though the red blood had soaked through his mask, the man was unable to bounce away.


Kwadudeuk!!


Because Taehyun was holding onto his hand so he wouldn't get away.


Second Form, Inch Force.


Kkwaang!!


"Kuhak…!!"


Whether it was a god, a demon, or a human.


He had already confirmed that the screams uttered in pain were no different.


There was no reason for it to be different for a man who had come from another dimension.


"Don't exaggerate."


Third Form, Back Force, Fourth Form, Spinning Force.


Kujik!!


With the continued attacks, the man's arm finally gave way and was torn off.


"Canceling out the statement that you're on par with Guild Master Yua-yeong. Your durability is terrible, isn't it?"


Taehyun threw the tattered arm of the man aside.


He took on a new stance.


Fifth Form, Penetrating Force.


He hurriedly guarded with his only hand.


Kkwaang!!!


But he couldn't prevent the remaining arm from being torn off by the five attacks.


It felt like his whole body was being crushed.


[Euhm….]


Tolkin opened his eyes with a groan.


He was the Meister who had once been taken to the Upper World and lived the life of a slave, but he had mostly recovered his dignity.


Although insignificant compared to the Archdukes who specialized in combat, Tolkin was also a demon worthy of being called a top-tier race based on strength alone.


It couldn't be said that there were no aftereffects from crossing the gate.


His head throbbed and his whole body was heavy.


But that was only for a moment.


Kwang!!!


As a roar that penetrated his ears continued, a huge presence came to his mind.


The 10 Heavenly Worlds.


Among them, the existence that was evaluated as being the closest to perfection.


The master of the First Heavenly World.


[…Michael!!]


His hazy mind cleared in an instant.


Tolkin got up and looked around.


Taehyun had said that he would move to the dungeon ruled by the High Kraken, but what came into view was just a forest.


It was neither the damn Fairy King's domain nor the personal space created by Michael.


[What the hell is this….]


He hadn't been in his right mind since he faced Michael.


Was that why?


It took a moment to understand what was happening before his eyes.


[Brother…?]


Taehyun was practically trampling on a 'human.'


[Why is he messing with such small fry….]


He tilted his head for a moment.


Veins stood out in Tolkin's crimson eyes.


The surrounding scenery turned red.


He began to scan the surroundings with the eyes of observation unique to Meisters.


He could feel the unique magic of the Sea Tribe and the remnants of the Magic Sea.


It meant that the High Kraken was not far away.


Or it had been.


It was there then, but not now.


[Did that guy take care of it?]


Tolkin's gaze turned to the human being trampled by Taehyun.


It was a miracle that he was still alive, he was so battered.


From the beginning, it was absurd to tell a human who couldn't even regenerate to fight without arms.


Kwajik!!


The man's legs buckled and he knelt as Taehyun kicked him.


Kwang!!


The man's head slammed into the ground with the kick that followed.


Heeshik.


The corners of Taehyun's mouth lifted.


[…….]


That appearance was no different from that of the Fairy King who had tormented him.


[Hey, brother. What's going on right now?]


"You're awake?"


[Did that guy get rid of the High Kraken?]


"I don't know. Let's listen and judge for ourselves."


Tring.


[Skill Super High-Speed Regeneration (E) has been activated. Specifying the target.]


[A huge force is at work.]


[The skill's proficiency is insufficient.]


[The skill is activated in a limited manner.]


The man's limbs, enveloped in magic, slowly regenerated.


The pain of regenerating could not be ignored, just as much as being torn apart.


The man let out a groan mixed with pain.


"Are you more willing to talk now?"


When Taehyun made eye contact.


He flinched.


The man.


Dokgojin, a renowned assassin from the Central Plains, hurriedly lowered his eyes.


Tolkin looked at that figure with pity.


Episode 509


A Conversation with the Body


How long did that one-sided conversation go on?


Assassin.


Dogo Jin's spirit was broken, and he couldn't even look Taehyun in the eye properly.


It was because of the fear learned from having his limbs torn off and regenerated.


For a supreme master of the Demonic Cult to feel fear.


He had connected dimensions between Murim and Earth, and met countless people, but it was a feeling he'd never experienced before, the worst shame and humiliation for him, who had grown by killing countless masters of both the righteous and unorthodox factions.


'Why hasn't there been a report about a guy like this yet… Heuk…!!'


Dogo Jin, who had briefly escaped from the pain while Taehyun talked to the awakened Tolkien, hurriedly lowered his eyes.


It was because a dark crimson mana was rising from Taehyun's body after the conversation ended.


"Ajusshi." (Uncle/Mister)


Taehyun deliberately made eye contact, even though he knew Dogo Jin wouldn't understand him.


It was to check if he was broken enough to use 'Ataraxia' effectively.


Tolkien, feeling a sense of kinship at the trembling figure, clicked his tongue.


[To injure my brother's body. That guy won't live long either.]


He had learned a lot of social skills both in the Upper Realm and the Lower Realm.


He was smiling, but he wasn't really smiling.


He knew that his brother, who had subjugated the absolute rulers of the Upper Realm and all the Archdukes of the Lower Realm, was not in a good mood because things weren't going as planned.


If a being like an Archduke were to fall into disgrace, they would become very unstable, both physically and mentally.


Was that all?


Taehyun had also just met Michael and personally realized the gap between him and the owner of the Thousand Worlds.


That feeling would be difficult for a mortal in the Middle Realm to handle.


High Kraken Zelga.


Where the hell had that bastard gone!!


While cursing the Sea Current Tribe's monster who wasn't even showing his face,


Tolkien didn't neglect his efforts to observe Taehyun's emotions.


[Brother. Are you thinking of using hypnosis?]


"I was thinking about it."


[…….]


The cooldown wasn't resolving as quickly as he thought.


Taehyun grumbled at his body, which wasn't cooperating as he wanted.


The integration of dimensions in the Middle Realm had started earlier than planned.


The level of the Otherworlders was higher than expected, and staying in his current state was dangerous.


[It seems they don't even speak the same language. Wouldn't it be better to kill him and find that High Kraken guy?]


"He's the first guy I met since returning to Earth. If I can solve the language problem, I can get a lot out of him."


Taehyun touched Dogo Jin's incompletely regenerated limbs.


It seemed impossible to use E-grade 'Super-Speed Regeneration' like the Saintess.


Tting.


[Skill 'Chains of Restraint' (E) has been activated. Targeting the subject.]


Charrrrr. Charreureuk.


Chains materialized from mana bound Dogo Jin's body.


[What about the High Kraken?]


"Time is more distorted than I thought."


Five years wasn't a long time for a monster, but it wasn't for a human.


He could faintly sense the Sea Current Tribe's mana reaction not far away, but it wasn't time to waste time looking for the invisible Zelga.


"He might have been hunted down by guys like these."


[…….]


"Let's head to New Korea for now."


When Taehyun pulled the chains, Dogo Jin listlessly began to walk.


If he contacted New Korea, or rather, the Players, he could easily grasp the situation.


They would have earrings that allow automatic translation.


However, they couldn't walk for even 10 minutes.


Dogo Jin.


People wearing the same clothes as the guy bound in chains appeared en masse.


There were ten of them.


They flinched for a moment when they saw the bound Dogo Jin, but their movement to surround Taehyun and Tolkien was as natural as could be.


[Brother…?]


Tolkien cautiously observed Taehyun's expression.


His upturned lips and crimson eyes were curved like crescent moons.


It was a similar look to when Elven treated him.


[…….]


"Judging by their attire, they seem to be from the same place as this guy."


He said it, thinking they wouldn't understand his words anyway.


But.


One of the assassins, who had been exchanging glances with each other, stepped forward.


"Shin… Korea… person…?"


"……!!"


It was clumsy, but it was definitely New Korean.


Taehyun's eyes widened.


"New Korean… you are definitely… a New Korean…."


The man said again, as if confirming.


His voice was a little more confident this time.


"New Korea. Player… Annoying…."


How delightful that clumsy muttering was.


"You know it well."


Taehyun raised the chains binding Dogo Jin and sneered.


The guys in front of him were certainly worthy of being SS-grade Players.


Was that why?


"Chains. Release him."


A cold gaze, surpassing language comprehension, swept over Taehyun and Tolkien.


"It's rude to give orders the first time we meet."


Unlike his gentle tone, Taehyun glared coldly at Dogo Jin.


Tremble tremble tremble.


Dogo Jin's body trembled violently as he recalled the learned fear.


He muttered something to his companions.


It was a language from another world that Taehyun couldn't understand.


Run away.


It wasn't difficult to understand the meaning.


"I think the greetings are over."


For a moment, a dark crimson mana rose.


"Shall we kneel for now?"


Tting.


[Skill 'Apocalypse' (E) has been activated.]


[Target not specified.]


Hwaaaaak.


The area was covered in darkness.


E-grade 'Apocalypse.'


Its power was not comparable to before.


But it was enough to pressure the ten assassins.


Oppressive gravity and constantly chasing chains.


The vision was dizzy due to the paralysis of the five senses, and it was difficult to control the body as if it were poisoned.


Only about three or four of them resisted and approached Taehyun, but that was all.


Tting.


[Skill 'Apocalypse' (E) has been enhanced.]


[Mana consumption is accelerated.]


Kugugung.


It didn't even take a minute to subdue all ten assassins.


"Ajusshi."


He stood in front of the assassin who spoke New Korean.


As the gravity weakened, the assassin raised his head with difficulty.


"There are many things I want to ask."


He kindly bent one knee to match his eye level.


Even so.


"Demonic… Cult… in the name… kill…."


Murderous intent.


Taehyun smiled and got up.


It would be a long time before Ataraxia's cooldown was released.


He wanted to get answers from the guy in front of him before that.


"There's nothing better than a conversation with the body."


A silent scream echoed.


1 minute to subdue ten assassins.


4 minutes to subjugate an assassin who can speak New Korean.


5 minutes to find out useful information.


Taehyun confirmed the information he had obtained from the assassin once again.


"So. It was New Koreans who broke the High Kraken's dungeon?"


“…Yes.”


The assassin answered in a deflated voice.


His already clumsy New Korean became even more difficult to understand as his broken jaw didn't regenerate completely.


"A New Korean who uses ice magic. Is it Im Ah Young after all…?"


They called skills magic, and skill users magicians.


Taehyun was trying to understand the situation by considering the perspective of another dimension.


'If it's true… that kid has grown.'


If she was strong enough to defeat Zelga alone, New Korea's power would have greatly increased.


There was other useful information as well.


The world they lived in was called 'Murim' on Earth.


The Righteous and Unorthodox factions.


They belonged to an organization called the Demonic Cult, which was classified as an Unorthodox faction, and the assassin Dogo Jin, who engaged in the first battle, was said to be their leader.


"Murim…. I've been connected to strange things. But there's one thing I don't understand."


“…W-what is it…?”


The Demonic Cult assassin tried to recall if there was anything wrong with what he had said.


There wasn't.


It was humiliating, but he had only told the truth under excruciating torture.


But Taehyun didn't seem to think so.


"New Korea is a weak country?"


A silent scream echoed once again.


People's Republic of China. Administrative capital, Beijing.


Crossing the gate, Ji Jinhee looked up at the China Player Association building, which was said to have been completed recently.


The design, which mixed modern and classical styles, was quite plausible.


"Magnificent."


"Let's hurry. We're probably the last ones."


"We're just going into the mouths of the predators anyway, what's the point of being fast."


Lee Jaejun had a bitter face at Ji Jinhee's words.


Predators.


New Korea was not included in that group.


He could tell from the fact that only his secretary, as the head of staff, was allowed to accompany him to this place, which could be called enemy territory.


Only 5 years ago.


New Korea, which had firmly established itself as the world's hegemonic power, was focusing on dealing with the suddenly appearing demons.


Kasim Zolt, Lee Jungjae, Ryu Sbo, Min Ji Hong.


They failed to kill Kasim Zolt and Min Ji Hong, but they weren't without results.


Lee Jungjae was captured alive, and Ryu Sbo was killed by Yoo Ah Young after extracting information.


After interrogating Lee Jungjae, they learned that the demons were trying to open a gate connected to another dimension, not the Abyss.


It matched the information Yoo Ah Young had learned from Ryu Sbo, and New Korea moved quickly.


This was because they realized that their purpose in opening the dimensional gate was not simply for exchange.


It was a situation where the civilization built on Earth could be violated in an instant.


After much deliberation, they shared this information with the World Organization, and what came back was betrayal.


The United States thought it was a golden opportunity to regain its precarious position as the number one power, and China thought it was the right time to regain its weakened position as a great power.


Such carelessness allowed Kasim Zolt and Min Ji Hong to cooperate in opening two dimensional gates.


It was done so quickly that even New Korea, which had grasped the situation in advance, could not intervene.


The United States, in cooperation with Kasim Zolt, was connected to the 'Empire' and accepted 'Aura', and China, in cooperation with Min Ji Hong, was connected to 'Murim' and accepted 'Internal Force'.


As the size of the once-opened dimensional gates increased, the number of Otherworlders coming over from the Empire and Murim increased.


Those with skills attached themselves to the United States and China and grew in power.


Large and small wars broke out, and the Empire and Murim quickly expanded their influence on Earth.


This soon led to the end of conventional weapons, which were barely maintaining their status.


Failed countries and refugees poured out, and superhuman beings like Players became the masters of the reorganized world.


"In just 5 years. The gap has widened too much in that short time."


“…It was an inevitable result. Please don't blame yourself too much."


"Depending on the outcome of this meeting, many people may lose their lives."


Ji Jinhee and Lee Jaejun entered the meeting hall while having a heavy conversation.


The chairmen of the US and Chinese Player Associations were seated.


And there were familiar faces identified by Knight Walker's information.


The chairman of the Chinese Player Association, who organized this meeting, spread his arms wide and welcomed them.


"Welcome. Heroes of a small country."


Small country.


It was a remark that could be considered a diplomatic discourtesy, but Ji Jinhee responded by frowning.


Lee Jaejun stood behind Ji Jinhee, who was seated, with a stiff expression.


"Sorry I'm late."


Ji Jinhee said, not hiding his discomfort.


The automatic translation function of the earring was activated, and those in the meeting hall nodded as if they knew it.


"You're busy, so we have to understand."


That was said by Kevin Lee, the chairman of the US Player Association.


He had risen to the top as the most powerful figure in the United States, maintaining his position as the chairman even after a new era had opened.


"There's no need to pretend to be friendly. Seeing your face makes me think about the word betrayal."


"……."


A silence fell over the meeting hall.


And.


"Chairman Ji Jinhee. Show the proper courtesy befitting the top."


Chairman Mao of the Chinese Player Association exaggerated his gestures and stepped in to mediate.


"Chairman Mao. Those words also apply to you. Was my expression too polite?"


Chairman Mao laughed at Ji Jinhee's mockery.


"Your unyielding attitude is as admirable as ever, now as it was then. But I hope you remember where you are. If you don't want to end your short life like Director Go Tae Wook."


“…You!!”


Fighting spirit was emitted from Ji Jinhee's body, who shouted.


510


A fierce fighting spirit swept through the area.


The atmosphere in the conference room turned icy at the sudden action.


No, it wasn't sudden.


Even though they hadn't coordinated.


Both the US and China wanted to see Ji Jin-hee's emotions shaken.


"Oh dear, I misspoke."


Chairman Mao raised his hand with an exaggerated tone.


'Chairman Ji Jin-hee. Now I understand why he's managed to survive as the head of a small country's association.'


As an S-Class player, he was sweating profusely from the fighting spirit emanating from Ji Jin-hee.


Chairman Kevin Lee must have felt the same.


As the host of the conference, he couldn't afford to show an unsightly appearance.


It was only thanks to the national-level powerhouses from the major countries present as guards that the pressure was only this intense.


SSS-Class player.


Now that new dimensions of powerhouses had emerged, the weight of that title had diminished, but with sufficient support, they could still annihilate a weak country.


Just possessing such a player was a great fortune for the affiliated country.


If that person was also the chairman of the Player Association, what more could be said?


'So he's an old beast who's been through thick and thin… I understand why the previous chairmen couldn't bring him down.'


Chairman Mao reaffirmed his belief that allowing Ji Jin-hee and Lee Jae-joon to attend was the right decision, and he put on a relaxed smile.


Though it was an act, he wasn't without his own confidence.


He glanced at two men who looked out of place in modern attire.


He focused his gaze on them, who emanated an unusual aura.


They were taking the brunt of the immense fighting spirit head-on.


Yet, they maintained a relaxed demeanor with subtle smiles.


"Chairman Ji Jin-hee. Show some respect. Both of these gentlemen are highly esteemed figures from the 'Murim.' Just because we have a friendly relationship with your country doesn't mean we'll overlook Shinhan's rudeness."


It was a warning that if he didn't tone down his aggression, they would suppress him with force.


There would be some damage, but the US wouldn't stand idly by, so it wasn't a bad scenario.


'Chairman Mao is scheming.'


Kevin Lee clicked his tongue and sighed at the current situation.


Shinhan.


If it were a country with mediocre power like Japan, it wouldn't be difficult to seize.


But.


The power of Shinhan, which Kim Tae-hyun had developed in the past, was not inferior to that of the US or China.


If you only looked at the skills of the players, they were better than those of the two great powers.


If Go Tae-wook hadn't been assassinated by assassins from Murim?


The current two-power structure of the US and China would have been impossible.


'Just thinking about it makes me dizzy. That brat won't last long.'


While the position of chairman of the Chinese Player Association had changed several times, the position of chairman of the Player Associations of Shinhan and the United States had never changed.


That's why he could tell.


Mao Ru-xun.


That moron was just a simple pawn in a rapidly changing world.


'Could it be that Murim is exerting power even on the Chinese Player Association…? I'll have to watch the situation a little more.'


Kevin Lee nodded to the chief wizard who attended on behalf of the Empire.


Meaning not to take any action.


That was the extent of his thinking.


Ji Jin-hee didn't cross the line any further.


The fighting spirit that had been suppressing the conference room subsided as if nothing had happened.


'Mao Ru-xun. Kevin Lee. Are they prepared to handle this much power?'


Ji Jin-hee thought as he scanned the two young men who appeared to be Murim and the old man who appeared to be from the Empire.


His actions earlier were a preemptive strike.


This wasn't the first time he'd been in such a position, and there wasn't much he could do from the position of an inferior.


Showing definite strength and preventing reckless actions from the start.


That was how Ji Jin-hee had protected Shinhan, a small country, until now.


'To achieve something comparable to national-level power at that age… dangerous.'


Currently, Shinhan had six SSS-Class players.


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


Among them, his objective skill was second only to Yoo Ah-young.


The fighting spirit he had unleashed earlier was by no means light.


It didn't carry murderous intent, but it was enough to blow away the minds of most SS-Class players.


'As expected, here… it's dangerous to show our true colors.'


Ji Jin-hee completely collected his spirit as if nothing had happened.


It wouldn't be a normal conference, but a life-or-death hearing.


Since he knew that and still attended, he needed to obtain that much information.


He was also prepared to accept the humiliation and insults that might come with it.


"Well thought. There's no need to start off on the wrong foot."


"I regret the matter of Director Go Tae-wook."


"We're not here to exchange insincere greetings. We should get to the main point."


It was an action that could be considered arrogant.


"Chairman Ji Jin-hee. I'd like you to make your stance clear now. We'll give you a generous 'price' for Shinhan's power."


"Betray the country. That's what it sounds like."


"Until there was a great country, there were many divisions and unifications. I would appreciate it if you could understand this proposal as one of those processes."


He proposed that if they agreed to absorb and unify Shinhan, they would guarantee lifelong wealth and glory.


"Tsk tsk. The basics of negotiation are to properly understand the other party. You seem to lack ability compared to your arrogance."


Mao's face turned red at Ji Jin-hee's blatant sarcasm.


Ignoring his shouts, Ji Jin-hee looked at Kevin Lee.


"If it were you, you would offer different conditions, right?"


"Do you want to hear it?"


"That's why I'm here."


"You're not the type to care about personal wealth and glory."


"Continue."


"Germany and Russia. I will support Shinhan so that it does not meet the same end as them."


"......"


Like the moment Go Tae-wook's name was first mentioned.


Ji Jin-hee's glib face hardened.


Before Shinhan received a proposal like this, in the early days when the dimensional gates were connected.


There were several battles resembling war centered on the Player Associations of each country.


Germany and Russia were prime examples.


They collapsed rapidly as high-ranking officials and chairmen of the Player Associations were successively assassinated by Murim and Empire attacks.


The aftereffects continued to this day, with the United States gradually absorbing Germany and China gradually absorbing Russia.


Kevin Lee was proposing.


Shinhan, which had no ties to Murim and the Empire.


He was offering them a way to survive in the new era under their protection.


Of course.


"You don't have to go through a rough time."


He didn't forget to add a subtle threat.


"...I knew you would say that too."


"Europe, South America, Africa. Many countries are still resisting, but they will eventually join the same boat."


"Shinhan is becoming an unnecessary hope. I will now relieve you of that heavy burden."


Chairman Mao chimed in, not wanting to be outdone.


If Shinhan, which had the strongest player force among the remaining forces, joined, other forces would have no choice but to surrender.


"If there's anything specific you want, tell me. I promise to fulfill it in my name."


"You're talking as if you're bidding in an auction."


"Why not? In fact, even Japan, which was once proud, received a large amount of financial support and joined hands with the United States, didn't it? The process wasn't very smooth, though."


"......"


Ji Jin-hee's expression turned bitter at Chairman Mao's mockery.


Japan, which was experimenting to open a dimensional gate on its own, ultimately failed, and the fallout affected the nuclear power plant, contaminating half of its territory.


Since then, it has joined hands with the United States and has been incorporated as the 60th state.


Choosing China was the worst option, and choosing the United States was the second worst option.


'I miss Tae-hyun at times like these.'


If Tae-hyun were here.


'He would have suggested being absorbed in reverse.'


It was a happy situation just to imagine.


But.


The strongest player Shinhan boasted had long since disappeared into the Abyss and had not been heard from since.


They could only speculate that it was related to why the gate to the Abyss had closed again.


Park Seong-jin, Im Ah-young, and Yoo Ah-young, who were acting individually to open the dimensional gate, had not yet contacted him.


He had been feeling uneasy because he had not heard from them, who had risen to SSS-Class, for some time.


"Why are you hesitating so much? Surely Shinhan hasn't given up hope of being able to open a gate on its own, has it?"


Chairman Mao's lips were raised.


"What do you mean?"


"Oh dear… you're making me say it in the end."


"I warned you not to test my patience, didn't I?"


"Hahaha. Very well, if you're going to be so arrogant, I'll tell you. Guild Leader Yoo Ah-young. Haven't you lost contact with the player Shinhan is so proud of?"


"......!!"


"You didn't think I wouldn't know that she was hiding in the great country and moving around, did you? The prestigious families of Murim have been working hard to catch that bitch."


Bang!!


Ji Jin-hee slammed his fist on the table.


"...You!! I warned you not to run your mouth carelessly!!"


"Don't worry. She's still alive."


Ji Jin-hee's body trembled violently.


Kevin Lee, who had been watching, sighed and intervened.


"Haa… I guess we have no choice but to reveal our cards too. Park Seong-jin and Im Ah-young, who sent support to Brazil. Those two people must have met our party by now..."


"What…."


"The great power of the East or the great power of the West. Choose, hero of the small country. Until then, you will not be able to return to Shinhan."


With the series of notifications.


Ji Jin-hee's face was contorted.


"Brazil…."


He had found out the location of this place through a killer who could speak Shinhanese.


But it didn't make sense.


Why was the coordinates identified as the High Kraken's dungeon connected to this place?


'Well, I'll find out when I meet the Earthlings.'


Tae-hyun thought as he looked at the eleven killers who were walking while bound by the 'Chains of Restraint'.


They were in a battered state, but their lives were not in danger.


That was because he was planning to forcibly extract information as soon as 'Ataraxia's' cooldown returned.


[Shame and humiliation worse than death. Sometimes when I see my brother's handiwork, I think he's worse than the Celestial Race.]


Tolkin, who was holding half of the chains, grumbled, but he ignored it.


"Wait."


Tae-hyun stopped walking.


He could faintly feel the aura of magic.


At least an SS-Class or higher player.


He could also feel the aura of the High Kraken he had been looking for.


The presence was approaching stealthily and quickly.


He wouldn't have noticed it if it wasn't for his heightened senses due to dealing with the killers.


More than anything.


'This magic property is definitely…'


Just as he was thinking that.


Crackle, crackle, crackle.


The ground in the area froze over.


[Uh… uh…!!]


Tolkin and the killers, who belatedly realized the situation, panicked.


Bang!!


The offensive that had been freezing the ground stopped as he stepped on Jin's awakening.


Whoosh… Crash!!


Tae-hyun caught the ice spear that flew towards his head.


Crackle, crackle, crackle.


Freezing began from his hand.


Tae-hyun calmly felt the magic that was freezing his body.


It was the magic of the High Kraken he had been looking for so much.


"Interesting."


There was fighting spirit in the magic, but no murderous intent.


He did not resist.


As his whole body froze, the owner of the magic appeared.


"You. You don't seem to be an Otherworlder, but what's your affiliation?"


Im Ah-young.


Shinhan's SSS-Class player and the one who accepted the power of the High Kraken.


'Did she make a summoning covenant?'


Otherwise, this thick magic property could not be understood.


A smile naturally appeared on his lips.


He was reminded of the moment when she had finished fusing her skills and asked him to test her power.


'I wonder how much she's grown. Shall I test her out?'


He rotated the magic power inside his body.


Even without a magic crystal, even if it was reduced.


Crack. Crackle.


It was enough to shake off the frozen ice.


"......!!"


At the same time, Im Ah-young's magic surged.


No warm-up was needed.


He had already warmed up enough against the killers.


[It was a sloppy double ambush.]


He uttered the language of the demons.


"......!!"


'I don't think I need to use Baeklang.'


What he was using was Sanxia.


He struck a pose while admiring her surprised face.


The first form of ancient Chinese martial arts.


Releasing energy.


Tae-hyun's fist suddenly stretched out.


Bang!!


"Cough…!!"


The one who was knocked away with a dying groan was not Im Ah-young.


It was Park Seong-jin.

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