RKP 61-70

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61


"Lo.ok. at. this? Hey, kid. Why don't you say that again?"


Kwon Kang-hyuk took the bait that Tae-hyun threw.


"Guild Master. You mustn't forget the purpose of your visit here. Please, calm down."


The secretary who came with him tried to dissuade him, but there was no way he, known for his hot temper, would listen.


"Step back, Secretary Kim. If I back down here, our entire guild will be disgraced."


"That wasn't my intention, but..."


"Shut up, kid."


Kwon Kang-hyuk growled, but Tae-hyun merely shrugged.


'Player Kim Tae-hyun. I knew he was unafraid to act, but to provoke the Guild Master like this... Does he have another life to spare?'


Secretary Kim, who came along in case Kwon Kang-hyuk caused an accident, shook her head.


Within South Korea, only about three people could stop Kwon Kang-hyuk once he lost his temper.


Even then, one was Chairman Ji Jin-hee of the Association, and the other two were currently in the Abyss.


So, right now...


She had to take responsibility and control Kwon Kang-hyuk no matter what.


"Guild Master. Let's hear what Player Kim Tae-hyun has to say until the end. And remember the warning you received from the Human Rights Commission last time. If you get another warning this time, you'll be banned from entering the Abyss for a while."


At Secretary Kim's rapid-fire words, Kwon Kang-hyuk's beastly momentum subsided a little.


A ban on entering the Abyss.


He was thinking about the next exploration that he was preparing for even at this moment.


"I got worked up again. Gosh. It's been a while since I've faced such blatant provocation."


"Sigh... It might be provocation to you, Guild Master. Player Kim Tae-hyun, I apologize for causing trouble. As you can see, the Guild Master's personality is fiery...."


"It's alright. I made a mistake too. Even if I'm confident, I should have consideration for the weak."


Thump.


Clang. Clang.


Crash. Crack.


Suddenly, a surge of magic power shook Tae-hyun's house, and the sound of things breaking was heard everywhere.


It was only natural that the barrier specially installed by the Association would break.


'Oh my gosh. What is this man really trying to do!!'


Secretary Kim was shocked and involuntarily took a step back.


She had been appointed as Kwon Kang-hyuk's secretary because of her recognized administrative skills.


With only a B-grade player license, Kwon Kang-hyuk's rampage as an S-grade player was nothing short of a disaster for her.


She could only hope that Tae-hyun, who provoked him knowing Kwon Kang-hyuk's reputation, possessed commensurate power.


"Hey, brat. Can you take responsibility for what you just said? That you're strong.er than me."


"If you're thinking of throwing punches, I decline. I hate fights that yield no gains."


"Heh heh... HAHAHA!!!"


Kwon Kang-hyuk burst into laughter at Tae-hyun's nonchalant answer.


The Guild Master of Onsaemiro and the third-ranked player in South Korea.


Perhaps it was because of his natural strength and arbitrary personality.


He had lived a life accustomed to even fellow S-grade players deferring to him.


A macho who had never bowed his head beneath anyone in his life.


That was Kwon Kang-hyuk.


"A fight with no gains, you say... Good!! You need that kind of spirit!!"


"Then?"


Tae-hyun threw the bait once more.


"I propose a bet. On the condition that you join our guild if I win. Tell me what you want. I promise on the line of being the Guild Master of Onsaemiro."


Kwon Kang-hyuk took the bait without a doubt.


"What I want... Well, it won't be too late to say after I win."


Crack.


"Secretary Kim. Tell the facility management team to clear one of the training grounds. Set up the barrier to the highest level."


Kwon Kang-hyuk was so excited that he could commit murder with his eyes.


Secretary Kim thought it was a relief that things didn't escalate here, and she nodded weakly.


"Sigh... I understand. I'll contact them now."


"Brat. Just remember that a man doesn't go back on his word."


To Kwon Kang-hyuk's threat, which wasn't really a threat.


"I unintentionally have to show you the hierarchy. As a healthy South Korean man."


Tae-hyun said, struggling to suppress the laughter that was about to burst out.


Buzzing.


"You've gathered quite a crowd in such a short time."


Tae-hyun said as he got out of the car and entered the Onsaemiro Guild building.


Reporters who had heard the news and flocked to the guild entrance were already snapping photos.


"Hahaha. In a little while, a rookie that South Korea is paying attention to will be a member of our guild. If you don't want to create a dark history, you can quietly admit defeat now."


Kwon Kang-hyuk, who had calmed down to some extent while riding in the car.


He was acting with such confidence that the guild building reverberated, but Tae-hyun was no less impressive.


"I'm fine, but I'm worried about the Guild Master's image. The public's shock will be great if someone known as the best tanker in South Korea is defeated."


"You really have a way with words. We'll see."


Kwon Kang-hyuk clenched his fist and gave a bestial smile.


Because there wasn't a single player he had missed after bringing them here.


'Heh heh. Kim Tae-hyun. You cute little guy. Still, since we'll be working together, I won't make you a hospital patient.'


'What a simple man. Compared to Yoo Ah-young, he feels like a muscle-bound idiot.'


While the two men were thinking different thoughts, the reporters surrounded them.


It was like an official press conference held by the Association.


"Guild Master. Is it true that you've scouted Player Kim Tae-hyun?"


"Are you forcibly recruiting him again this time?"


"I understand you received a warning from human rights organizations."


"Everyone, be quiet! What's with all the talk when I've graciously invited you here?!"


"Guild Master... Please watch your words in front of the reporters...."


Secretary Kim sighed at Kwon Kang-hyuk's attitude.


Thinking that he really didn't know anything about diplomacy.


"Would they be any different if they watched their words? If you're going to say nonsense, get out of the guild building right now."


Meanwhile, no less than the shouting Kwon Kang-hyuk, Tae-hyun was also receiving a lot of questions.


No, he was receiving even more spotlight than Kwon Kang-hyuk, who had started arguing with the reporters.


'There are really a lot of reporters.'


He knew that he was attracting attention through the people who waited in front of the dungeon every time and through social media.


But this was the first time he had been swarmed to this extent.


'Well, it's only natural, if you think about it.'


Not only had he become the twelfth S-grade player in South Korea, but he was also clearing dungeons on his own.


The order was reversed, but recently he cleared a double dungeon that was S+ grade and even had rumors of an affair with Yoo Ah-young.


It was inevitable that the public and reporters would go crazy.


Moreover, although it wasn't officially known, he even had a charm stat that star players each had.


It was only natural that reporters with good senses would feel the star quality in Tae-hyun.


The reporters began to hold out microphones and pour out absurd questions.


"Player Kim Tae-hyun. Is it true that you are joining the Onsaemiro Guild?"


"You are currently ranked 15th in South Korea. Is your recent activity related to the Asian Player Goodwill Match?"


"Is it true that you enjoyed a rendezvous with Guild Master Yoo Ah-young of Night Walker in the dungeon?"


Tae-hyun sighed inwardly, watching the reporters rushing in without rhyme or reason.


'Annoying.'


It wouldn't be difficult to silence them with the release of magical power.


But looking at Kwon Kang-hyuk, who was shouting and fighting with the reporters next to him, it didn't seem like the right answer either.


'Should I hire a secretary?'


At that time, a familiar face appeared among the reporters.


He found the reporter Kim who had interviewed Tae-hyun in front of the player license test center.


Tae-hyun approached Reporter Kim, who was being pushed around in the crowd, and reached out his hand.


"Reporter Kim. It's been a while."


"Huh? Ah, yes? Oh, it's been a while, Player Kim Tae-hyun."


The standing of Tae-hyun had risen to the point where it could not be compared to the past, so Reporter Kim used honorifics.


Tae-hyun smiled softly as he saw him still the same.


And after naturally shaking hands with him, he looked around at the surrounding reporters and said.


"I'm sorry. As you know, I have a schedule with Guild Master Kwon Kang-hyuk, so it seems difficult to answer everyone here. I will schedule another time in the future."


With those words, Tae-hyun rushed into the building.


Then.


"Huh? But who is Reporter Kim?"


"Hey. What is your relationship with Player Kim Tae-hyun?"


"Which company do you belong to?"


To the pouring questions.


The remaining Reporter Kim could only show a troubled expression.


A training ground prepared inside the Onsaemiro Guild.


In the guest seats there, a man was diligently pressing the shutter of a large camera.


It was Ah-young disguised with a wig, beard, and glasses.


'Kwon Kang-hyuk. He put some money into the facilities?'


Ah-young whistled softly at the magic power felt from the barrier of the training ground.


Unlike Night Walker, which had no need to unleash its power to its full extent.


Onsaemiro had built a barrier that could withstand the power of the top-class S-grade player for training that resembled real combat.


'Kwon Kang-hyuk. If that bear-like guy is your opponent, Tae-hyun, you'll have to use your true power.'


Since he was a person whom she couldn't guarantee victory against even if she exploded her skills.


Ah-young was confident that she would be able to see Tae-hyun's full power this time.


Also, the identity of the unsettling sound she heard while losing consciousness in the double dungeon.


'Anyway, Tae-hyun. He seems to have gotten even more handsome in the meantime. Did he get a charm stat or something?'


Ah-young also had a charm stat of nearly 50, so she could intuitively know.


That such an aura was not generated simply by being strong.


'I should ask him next time.'


Of course, she couldn't imagine that the number would have exceeded 100.


[From now on, we will begin the 120th 'Long Live Talent' Duel hosted by the Onsaemiro Guild. Usually, it proceeded with one side admitting defeat. Er... This time, both participants are S-grade players who are among the best in South Korea, so we have slightly changed the rules. First, whoever has their back touch the ground or kneels on both knees loses.]


Tae-hyun chuckled at the words of the host, which were transmitted through the speaker.


"I knew that the Guild Master liked recruiting talent. But I didn't know you would add such interesting rules."


"Kuh heh. We have to clearly distinguish which side is on top. You're not going to give up now, are you?"


"Of course not."


Tae-hyun answered calmly, meeting the eyes of Kwon Kang-hyuk, who was asking while shaking his bear-like body.


Hot-tempered, strong competitive spirit, and likes betting.


To put it differently.


'Simple-minded and with a lot of room to dig in.'


A man called the strongest tanker and ranked 3rd in South Korea.


Even though he didn't intend to use Gluttony against him.


Tae-hyun's expression was full of composure.


"The match begins~!!!"


"I'll give you the first strike."


As expected, Kwon Kang-hyuk, who wanted to show off his overwhelming strength in front of the reporters, was posturing.


This was also a part that Tae-hyun had anticipated.


"Then I won't refuse."


Ting.


[Knight King's Poise (B) has been activated. Specifying the target.]


The skill 'Knight King's Poise', which had grown to the point of suppressing even S-grade monsters.


Rumble.


"Kneel."


That enormous power began to oppress Kwon Kang-hyuk.


Episode 62


In his past life, Taehyun had to constantly strive.


Because he didn't have the skills that everyone else had.


Despite that, he wanted to become a player active in the Abyss.


He had to do hard training without even being able to open his status window.


It wasn't a choice, but a necessity.


Even as a non-awakened person, he was recognized for his abilities to the point where he could work as a porter in the Abyss.


Taehyun's belatedly discovered talent was thought to be the result of his efforts.


Even after regression, his habit of working hard did not change.


He quickly raised his physical stats through training, rapidly increasing his strength, stamina, and speed.


But that alone wasn't enough.


Competing with formidable players with only the advantage of memories from his past life was impossible.


Fortunately, unlike his past life, Taehyun, who had regressed, had a special power.


Unique skill: Predation.


It was because of that power that Taehyun could become a growth-type awakened person.


Magic stat, which others struggled to raise even by 1 point.


Taehyun understood the characteristics of Predation and grew rapidly.


He predated on classmates and the Mained, and devoured monsters.


Skills increased one by one, and the increase in magic power through magic stones was dramatically achieved.


Even so, he didn't stop his hard training.


It didn't take long for Taehyun to regain the body he had when he was active as a porter.


Naturally.


As his physical stats grew, his rank rose.


From E-rank to D-rank. From D-rank to C-rank. And from C-rank to B-rank.


Although only B-rank in terms of stats, his actual strength was comparable to an S-rank player.


He was recognized for his strength in the player test and received an S-rank license.


Activity over a time that was short yet long.


Countless dungeon raids, battles with S-rank players and the Mained, and high-level monsters.


Along with incidents that ordinary players would rarely experience even once in their lifetime.


Taehyun grew rapidly once again.


S-rank lower. Lower-middle. Middle. Upper-middle. Upper.


It was natural for the proficiency of his skills to increase each time he surpassed a stage.


His stats increased dramatically through the unexpected Phoenix Potion, Sage's Ring, and Warrior's Ring.


S-rank Highest, referred to as national power level.


Now, with only one step left towards that final stage.


Taehyun was confident that he could take on an S-rank Upper player without using Predation.


And Kwon Kanghyuk, along with Park Sungjin, was an S-rank Upper player representing New Korea.


Although he had not yet obtained the power of national power level, he was a top-ranked player with skills that were not inferior to it.


Kugung!!!


Kwon Kanghyuk once again unleashed 'Knight King's Aura.'


But.


"Are you done?"


As if Kwon Kanghyuk was not bothered by it.


He endured the crushing force and took a step towards Taehyun.


"With that attack."


Kung.


Another step.


"The advantage is over. Kid."


Kwaaaaa.


Kwon Kanghyuk's body was surrounded by a huge amount of magic power.


The moment he thought the skill was activated.


Kwaaang.


Taehyun, who collided with his body, flew into the air.


"......"


Poosuseuk.


Taehyun pulled his body out of the dented wall.


Despite being a simple body check, the power was this strong.


If he hadn't used 'Stone Skin,' even Taehyun's current physical stats wouldn't have been able to withstand the impact.


'So this is what it's like right before breaking through the wall.'


It's not just Taehyun who is growing.


The future SS-rank players who are now called national power level.


Not only them, but also the SS-rank realm that many talents will reach in the future.


Kwon Kanghyuk was one of the New Korean rankers who wasn't being left behind.


'Then how about this.'


[Skill Binding Chains (B) has been used. Targeting the target.]


Chararararak. Chararararak.


The quickly created chains wrapped around Kwon Kanghyuk's body.


'And there's this.'


[Skill Paralysis (B) has been used. Targeting the target.]


The magic power disappeared from Kwon Kanghyuk's body wrapped in chains.


At the same time, it could be seen that his body was stiffening due to the effect of paralysis.


"You said you have a lot of skills. Is this all you have, these 잡기 (japkki - miscellaneous techniques)?"


"잡기 (japkki - miscellaneous techniques) are all about how you use them."


Taehyun increased the magic power injected into the Binding Chains.


Eudeudeuk. Eudeuk.


Kwon Kanghyuk tried to break free with brute force, but it was ineffective.


"Keuheuheuh. These aren't ordinary chains."


"Show me. The skill that makes you called the best tanker in New Korea."


Taehyun provoked while increasing the magic power injected into the chains.


The one and only skill that allowed him to be called the best tanker in New Korea.


'Guardian of the Beast.'


"Haha!! Good posture. You're going to be a new member of our guild, so you should experience the guild leader's skill at least once!!"


In an instant, Kwon Kanghyuk's body, which was being suppressed by 'Binding Chains,' began to change.


Just like the Grand Phoenix.


An existence with physicality and strength that couldn't be suppressed even by Binding Chains.


Tududuk. Tudududuk.


Kwon Kanghyuk, who had become a 2-meter-tall bear, easily cut off the Binding Chains.


"Hey, have you ever been hit by a bear's paw?"


As if he didn't need Taehyun's answer.


A huge brown fist covered in fur was swung.


It's not that fast.


To the extent that an S-rank player could easily avoid it.


The moment Taehyun, who had calculated the speed and distance, dodged to the side.


Tudududuk.


Kwon Kanghyuk's lower body transformed into that of a tiger.


And using the elasticity, he closed the distance with Taehyun, who was dodging to the side.


Kwaang!


He brought down his fist on top of Taehyun's guard.


The impact, as if being struck with a hammer, was conveyed as is, even though he was using 'Stone Skin.'


Hudududuk.


Taehyun, who was once again slammed into the wall, stood up.


"Surely this isn't the end, is it? You still have a lot to show."


One of Kwon Kanghyuk's arms this time turned into that of a lion.


The skill 'Guardian of the Beast,' which borrows the power of a designated beast.


Its limits and risks were not known even in his past life.


Only the fact that stats were buffed depending on the changing beast was revealed.


Judging from the shock conveyed beyond 'Stone Skin.'


'In this state, his strength must be at least 180.'


With that much, he far surpassed Taehyun, who had raised his stats with the Sage's Ring and Warrior's Ring.


In other words, Taehyun had no chance of winning with ordinary close combat.


Even so, there was no sense of tension on Taehyun's face.


'Not bad.'


This forced fight will not end until both knees are on the ground or the back touches the floor.


It was unexpected that Kwon Kanghyuk had already endured 'Knight King's Aura.'


But that was all.


Having the opportunity to test his skills against the best tanker in New Korea was not something that came easily.


Moreover, those who appear in the Asian Player Friendship Competition are all strong players from their respective countries.


To Taehyun, Kwon Kanghyuk in front of him looked like a sandbag that wouldn't break easily.


"You too, Guild Leader."


Taehyun smiled and took out his Talisman.


Infusing the power of the skill 'Paralysis' into the blade and strengthening his body with 'Stone Skin.'


"Don't you have any more hidden beasts?"


Seuseuseuseut.


Taehyun's body, using 'Stealth,' quickly rushed forward.


Kwaang. Kwaang. Kwaaang.


The Onsaemirow guild members, the reporters holding cameras, and even Yoo Ah Young, at the scene unfolding before their eyes.


Were concentrating with their mouths open.


The duel between the two players had already gone beyond a light sparring match.


Bear. Tiger. Cheetah. Crocodile. Lion. Wolf. Leopard. Elephant. Buffalo, etc.


In response to Kwon Kanghyuk, who was launching unpredictable attacks with 'Guardian of the Beast,' Taehyun's Talisman was being swung without rest.


Had anyone ever shown such a tight match against Kwon Kanghyuk until now?


Seogeok.


Taehyun's Talisman, which had induced a reverse motion, cut through Kwon Kanghyuk's arm.


"I have to admit, you're good at running away."


Kwon Kanghyuk half-rotated his body and struck Taehyun with the crocodile's tail that had grown out sometime ago.


Kwaang!


Taehyun was once again knocked into the wall.


The battle disguised as a duel had clearly tilted towards Kwon Kanghyuk.


While Taehyun's attacks were not inflicting any damage on Kwon Kanghyuk.


Kwaang!!


"Eut..."


Kwon Kanghyuk's attacks were steadily accumulating damage.


Taehyun massaged his throbbing arms and stood up again.


'This is the last time.'


[Skill Knight King's Aura (B) has been used. Targeting the target.]


[Skill Paralysis (B) has been used. Targeting the target.]


[Skill Binding Chains (B) has been used. Targeting the target.]


Three skills were stacked and applied to Kwon Kanghyuk's body.


It was an attack in which he poured out all his magic power, except for the magic power for the final move.


"Hoo. This one's quite heavy, huh?"


Kwon Kanghyuk flinched as if he was impressed, but that was it.


Kwadeudeudeuk.


Once again, he was surrounded by magic power and began to transform into a new beast.


Dinosaur.


Its size was only 2 meters, but the power it exerted was difficult to call an ordinary beast.


Kwon Kanghyuk, who had completed the transformation, tore off the 'Binding Chains' and shook off the energy of 'Paralysis' as well.


And.


Kwadeuk!!!


He lightly brushed off even 'Knight King's Aura' and sank his sharply grown teeth into Taehyun's shoulder.


It was a power that seemed to laugh at 'Stone Skin.'


"Keueuk..."


Kwon Kanghyuk, who had lifted him up with his teeth embedded, threw Taehyun back into the wall once again.


Huoong. Kwang.


Jjeojeok.


The barrier set to the highest specs could not absorb all the impact and cracked.


It seemed like he had already been slammed into the wall more than ten times.


If it wasn't for the barrier.


The damage would have already reached the spectators.


"This is... do you count dinosaurs as beasts?"


Taehyun grabbed his trembling legs and stood up.


Kwon Kanghyuk burst into laughter at the sight.


It was because he thought that the match had already been decided with the attack just now.


"Hehe. If they hadn't gone extinct, I would have kept one as a pet."


"You're exaggerating too much."


"Haha!! The match seems to have been decided. Knees or back? It's time to choose, kid."


Kwon Kanghyuk, who had returned to his human form, approached Taehyun and said.


Just as Taehyun had analyzed Kwon Kanghyuk.


Kwon Kanghyuk had also finished analyzing Taehyun.


He was already out of stamina and magic power, and no matter what attack he made, it wouldn't work on him in his current state.


Taehyun nodded obediently.


'Certainly. The intentions were impure, but I can't deny that it was a good time.'


Taehyun's main skills except for Predation.


'Stone Skin', 'Stealth', 'Paralysis', 'Knight King's Aura', 'Binding Chains'.


He thought he had raised his proficiency quite a bit, but it didn't work on a strong person like Kwon Kanghyuk.


Just confirming this alone made this duel a worthwhile endeavor for Taehyun.


"I think this is enough. Let's end it soon."


"Khahaha. Are you finally surrendering? Knees or back?"


"Certainly. The knee side would be better for clarifying the superior-subordinate relationship."


Taehyun used his remaining magic power to activate the last skill.


Ttiriring.


[Skill Complete Hypnosis (B) has been used. Targeting the target.]


This time, he commanded with all his heart.


"Kneel."


Teolseok.


As if a huge will was acting.


Kwon Kanghyuk knelt down on both knees without any resistance.


"Huh...?"


Even he had an expression that he couldn't understand what was happening to his body.


But the meaning that his actions represented was clear.


"Gu, Guild Leader... has forfeited!! Player Kim Taehyun is the winner!!!"


The host announced the match with a trembling voice.


But no one there could open their mouths.


Okay, here's the translation of Chapter 63:


Chapter 63


"You... what did you do to me?"


Kwon Kang-hyuk, who had somehow gotten to his feet, stared at Tae-hyun with a fierce gaze.


"It's nothing much. I used a skill, and the guild leader just happened to be affected by it."


Gritting teeth sound


"How dare you..."


Magic power surged from Kwon Kang-hyuk's body once more.


Seeing him about to use a skill any moment, Tae-hyun chuckled.


"The match is decided. In the end, it wasn't me who kneeled."


"......"


As if it wasn't a big deal, Tae-hyun spoke in a nonchalant tone.


Kwon Kang-hyuk's pride was hurt, but at the same time, he could understand.


That Tae-hyun had been hiding his final move from the beginning.


And that he, Kwon, had brought defeat upon himself by thinking he was superior.


"Hoo... Fine. I lost this match."


"It was a good match."


Tae-hyun bowed towards Kwon Kang-hyuk, who cleanly accepted his defeat.


It was only natural that the audience watching the scene became noisy.


"An unbelievable thing has happened."


"Kim Tae-hyun defeated Kwon Kang-hyuk...?!!"


"This is a scoop!!"


"Damn it. If video recording wasn't prohibited...!!"


"Hey, if anyone has a video recording of that, I'll buy it for 500!"


"I'll give you 700!! If it's exclusive, I'll pay even 1500!!"


"Hey!! Are there any skill awakeners with filming skills here?!"


It wasn't just the reporters who were in a state of chaos; the Onsemiro guild members were the same.


They had explored the Abyss, crossing the line between life and death countless times.


They had faced countless S-rank monsters that most players feared.


It was Kwon Kang-hyuk who had single-handedly stopped those monsters without ever kneeling.


"The best tank in Shinhan Korea... kneeling."


"I can't believe it."


It was only natural that they, united by blind loyalty, would be shocked.


Ah-young's reaction wasn't much different.


Disguised as a male reporter, she shook her head slightly amidst the surrounding chaos.


It wasn't just because Tae-hyun had made Kwon Kang-hyuk kneel.


If it were the Tae-hyun she knew, she thought he could at least make him kneel, even if he couldn't win.


Simply.


'What did he just do? It definitely seemed like a skill...'


The magic power reaction when Tae-hyun made Kwon Kang-hyuk kneel.


Her intuition clearly told her that a skill had been activated.


The problem was that it was a skill he had never used even while attacking the dual dungeon together, or even when he was in danger against the Grand Phoenix.


'A skill that forces commands... I've never even heard of it.'


Surprise that exceeded expectations. Awe that exceeded surprise.


It was an emotion she couldn't feel from other S-rank players.


Tae-hyun was a man who made her feel such emotions without ever getting tired of them.


'Kim Tae-hyun. You're really... amazing!!'


He was clearly much younger than her.


But for Ah-young, who had wealth, fame, and power, age was just a number.


She thought of the many things she would do with Tae-hyun in the future.


Shiver


Ah-young trembled without realizing it.


"Damn it. I've been caught in my own trap."


Kwon Kang-hyuk frowned as he saw the reactions around him.


The reporters were already adding their own novels to the fact that Kim Tae-hyun had made Kwon Kang-hyuk kneel.


Perhaps unbelievable stories would top the search rankings soon.


He wanted to shout for a rematch.


'Damn it.'


Kwon Kang-hyuk clicked his tongue.


There were too many eyes watching.


Even though he was hot-tempered and acted as he pleased.


He recognized the importance of his position as guild leader.


He had no choice but to keep his promise.


Tae-hyun, having read Kwon Kang-hyuk's thoughts, approached and extended his hand.


Although the scout offer was refused, the other party was the Onsemiro, one of the four major guilds.


Like Alchemist and Nightwalker, there was no harm in building a good relationship.


'No, rather, considering future events, it's necessary to build a solid relationship.'


Just like the Gate Break that occurred immediately after his regression.


Even at this moment, various incidents were occurring all over the world.


And Tae-hyun knew that, in the end, Shinhan Korea would also have a hard time being safe from the vortex.


"There are many talented people in Shinhan Korea, even if it's not me."


"Hmph! A young brat already just talking big... Tch! I can't even say that anymore. A promise is a promise, so tell me what you want. Should I give you a unique item?"


Tae-hyun's eyes flashed at the seemingly nonchalant words.


Unique item.


A rare item that greatly increases the user's stats, such as the Ring of the Sage, the Ring of the Warrior, or Dragon Tears.


It was an excessive reward for winning the bet, but it was a somewhat understandable reward considering the match they had fought.


But Tae-hyun shook his head.


'Now isn't the time for unique items.'


He couldn't just grab at something without thinking.


Instead, he needed to focus on the rewards he would get by clearing the maze with Kwon Kang-hyuk.


And the relationship with Kwon Kang-hyuk that would be forged as a result.


"A unique item... That would be nice too. But what I want isn't something material."


Tae-hyun rejected his offer without hesitation.


"Huh. You're the first guy I've seen reject a unique item. Then?"


"The Minotaur Maze."


An answer as if it had already been decided.


Perhaps it was because he hadn't expected the maze to come out of Tae-hyun's mouth.


Kwon Kang-hyuk's body twitched noticeably.


"You... how did you know about that..."


"I want to join the attack party that you're preparing for that place."


Maze.


Another form of dungeon where monsters lived, and a name often found at the entrance of the Abyss.


However, unlike dungeons where there was little fear of getting lost.


Mazes, as their name suggests, required a detection skill awakener.


Detection skill awakener.


Commonly known as a guide.


On the surface, it might seem like just one more member is being added to the attack party.


But that alone greatly increased the difficulty of the attack.


This is because if you can't protect the guide, there is a high probability that all the remaining members will be trapped in the maze.


For this reason, mazes were generally given a rank that was one or two levels higher than the measured magic power.


'Nevertheless, the reason why so many players rush in is because of the rewards.'


It was different from dungeons where you could only get monster magic stones or corpses.


No one knew who made the maze, when, or for what purpose.


However, it was common knowledge that at the end of such a maze, there was a pile of magic stones, no one knew whose they were.


This was the reason why so many guilds did not give up on attacking mazes, even while enduring considerable sacrifices.


'Among them, the Minotaur Maze is special.'


A place where many guilds had easily challenged it just because it was located at the entrance of the Abyss, only to face annihilation.


Because there were many S-rank players among the dead, it was a maze that was infamous compared to its geographical location.


Kwon Kang-hyuk was the first person to attack the Minotaur Maze.


'The reward at the end of it shocked many people... It's really a common story.'


Tae-hyun smiled.


The Minotaur Maze, where most players gave up on attacking and left it abandoned, only increasing its infamy.


In his previous life, Kwon Kang-hyuk, who was exploring the depths of the Abyss, obtained a clue to attack the Minotaur Maze and formed a large-scale attack party.


And just like Yoo Ah-young, who attacked the "Temple of the Phoenix".


He paid a considerable price, but in the end, he was a person who produced results.


'This life, I'm going to share some of that reward too.'


Tae-hyun wasn't stupid enough to refuse a feast that was laid out in front of him.


However, he wasn't a shameless robber without any sense of morality either.


'Give and take.'


He was clearly smiling at Kwon Kang-hyuk.


However, Ah-young, who was watching Tae-hyun, felt strangely goosebumps.


A week later.


The Association's warp gate zone, which was sufficient to accommodate about a thousand people.


The 100 members of the attack party, including Kwon Kang-hyuk, were waiting for the Association's warp gate to operate.


Tae-hyun, who participated in this maze attack as a mercenary, was also present.


"How is it? Do you like the gift?"


Kwon Kang-hyuk asked Tae-hyun, who was swinging a new dagger in his hand.


"As expected, it has good performance because it's a rare grade."


Tae-hyun said, holding up the new dagger.


Athrun, which had a sharpness no less than that of a Talisman.


That was the reward for the bet.


Kwon Kang-hyuk had found it in the guild warehouse and handed it over, saying that it was not enough to just be participating as a mercenary.


The Talisman had been entrusted to a craftsman for repair due to excessive damage accumulation.


"How about joining our guild? We can give you a truckload more rare items."


Kwon Kang-hyuk, who still hadn't given up his regrets, said, licking his lips.


"I'll just accept your heart."


"Hmph. I won't even accept you later, even if you ask."


After a while, an Association employee announced that the warp gate was ready.


This was because Onsemiro, unlike Alchemist, had a long-term contract with the Association to travel back and forth between the Abyss.


Most guilds were the same, not just Onsemiro.


The Association, as the representative of the country, had the most warp gates in the country.


One troublesome thing was that.


"Tch. That old man is doing useless things."


Unlike other guilds, Kwon Kang-hyuk and Ji Jin-hee did not have a good relationship.


Kwon Kang-hyuk clicked his tongue as he saw Ji Jin-hee, who was coming out to greet him with Go Tae-wook.


"Guild leader. Please be careful with your words to the Association president."


"Hmph. This is all because of you. Kid."


Kwon Kang-hyuk ignored Secretary Kim, who was worriedly speaking next to him, and looked at Tae-hyun.


"Indeed. I can't help but admit that."


Tae-hyun smiled awkwardly as he saw Ji Jin-hee, who had already come right in front of him.


"Ho ho. Tae-hyun, are you with Guild Leader Kwon Kang-hyuk this time? You're very well-connected."


"It just happened that way. More than that, how did the Association president get here..."


The president of the Players Association was someone who was difficult to meet, even for the president.


He had shown up to greet a mere attack party.


It was only natural for the players to murmur.


"I couldn't help but worry that you, who don't know much about the Abyss yet, were going into the maze. Especially Minotaur. I was startled when I received the report."


Ji Jin-hee thought that Tae-hyun had gone into the depths and returned without any gains, as if he was being chased by monsters that were stronger than he thought.


"Haha. If that's the case, then it's okay. Aren't I with the veteran, Guild Leader Kwon Kang-hyuk?"


Tae-hyun did not resolve Ji Jin-hee's doubts and cautiously passed the ball to Kwon Kang-hyuk.


Ji Jin-hee's kind expression changed mischievously.


"Hmm. Guild Leader Kwon, please take good care of our Tae-hyun."


"Hmph. You're talking useless nonsense. Are you already senile?"


"Guild leader!!"


Secretary Kim, who was watching with an anxious expression, shouted, and Ji Jin-hee smiled as if to say it was okay.


"Haha. You're still the same as ever. That's your charm."


"That's enough. I'm busy, so get out of the way."


"Hahahaha. This friend's personality. I heard you knelt to Tae-hyun, but nothing has changed."


"This old man, really!!"


It was the moment when Kwon Kang-hyuk was about to raise his bear-like hand.


Go Tae-wook, who had been watching from behind, took a step forward first.


"Association president. They're busy. Please let them go."


"Ah ah. I was too playful."


Ji Jin-hee patted Kwon Kang-hyuk's shoulder as if he was joking, then turned his head to Tae-hyun.


"Anyway, Tae-hyun. Since this is your first official Abyss exploration, let me give you some advice. Monsters are the main enemy in the Abyss. Always be careful of 'people' too."


Because he knew what those words meant.


"Thank you for the advice."


Tae-hyun replied with a bright smile.


"Hmph! Let's go!!"


Starting with Kwon Kang-hyuk shouting roughly, the attack party began to cross the gate.


"Then. Let's meet again after you return."


"I'll be waiting."


Leaving behind Ji Jin-hee and Go Tae-wook, who were smiling kindly.


Tae-hyun crossed the warp gate to the 'Minotaur Maze'.


Episode 64


The place where the 100-member raid team, including Taehyun and Kwon Kanghyuk, had disappeared.


Only Go Taewook, Ji Jinhee, and a few association officials remained.


"They've left."


Go Taewook said, looking at the warp gate that had stopped operating.


"The Minotaur's Labyrinth... For some reason, I feel like it might be conquered this time."


It was a place that hadn't been conquered for a full 30 years.


Even if two of their country's S-rank players were participating, foreign players might laugh at the idea.


Nevertheless, Go Taewook nodded with a faint smile.


"If the Association President's intuition says so, then there's a high probability it will be conquered this time."


"Haha. You overestimate me too much."


"Every player in Shinhan would."


Go Taewook replied as if it were obvious.


Of course, he thought Guild Leader Kwon Kanghyuk might be an exception.


"You don't have to keep giving them plane tickets. No matter how much we do, it will be nothing compared to the history these young people will make."


Ji Jinhee's eyes looked somewhat regretful as he said that.


"Contrary to your words, you wanted to participate too, Association President."


Go Taewook had the best measurement skills in the association.


Even though he was in his mid-60s, he knew better than anyone else that the magic power emanating from Association President Ji Jinhee was still extraordinary, as he was assisting him closely.


His body was already aging.


But his skills, which had made him known as the strongest player in Shinhan, had not deteriorated.


Ji Jinhee even refused meetings with the president to train whenever he had time.


A man who was more suited to the name of player than anyone else.


Therefore, he didn't bother to hide his boiling spirit.


"These days, I find myself thinking... If only I were a little younger..."


"Is it because of Taehyun?"


"I can't deny it. Taehyun has a special power that other players don't possess."


"A special power... He's certainly an amazing guy for his age."


Go Taewook remembered when he first met Taehyun at GeonGuk High School.


A smile spread across Go Taewook's face.


Who would have known that the non-awakened person from back then would become a player that Shinhan was paying attention to?


"Still, I'm relieved to have you here. The future of Shinhan isn't so bleak after all."


"You flatter me. More than that... What are you planning to do about Japan?"


"The Saintess' invitation, you mean?"


Go Taewook nodded at Ji Jinhee's question.


"To be honest, I thought you would have told me before going to the labyrinth."


"Their intentions are obvious. I don't want unnecessary political games to interfere with what Taehyun has to do. Above all, if the Minotaur's Labyrinth is conquered, the cards we hold will be even stronger."


In other words, he wanted Go Taewook to handle things on his own until Taehyun returned.


"Understood. I will take care of that matter."


"I'm counting on you. More than that, have you made up your mind?"


"......"


Go Taewook's expression briefly hardened.


Nevertheless, Ji Jinhee didn't stop talking.


"The information I'm hearing isn't reassuring. Not only China and Japan, who openly showed their ambitions, but also the United States, who pretended to be allies."


Ji Jinhee's gaze, which had been fixed on the warp gate, turned to Go Taewook.


"Chief Go. Shinhan needs a thirteenth S-rank player."


"Even if I undergo the enhancement surgery, there's no guarantee of success."


Go Taewook said calmly.


"No. I'm sure you'll succeed. Didn't you say you trusted my intuition? I'm sure of it."


Go Taewook took a small breath at Ji Jinhee's confident words.


It had already been a year since these words had been exchanged.


Skill enhancement surgery.


Defying the odds that only a few people succeed in.


Ji Jinhee was telling Go Taewook to rise to the rank of S-rank player.


Go Taewook had been refusing for various reasons.


But it was also true that it was becoming more difficult to refuse as before.


This was because the power of players had become more important than ever as the ambitions of the great powers began to materialize.


Ji Jinhee was pushing Go Taewook as his successor.


In order not to be pushed back at the negotiation table with the great powers, and for the future of Shinhan.


Ji Jinhee wanted to make Go Taewook an S-rank player.


Go Taewook was well aware of that thought.


"If that's what the Association President wants... I'll accept it."


No longer pushing Ji Jinhee away, Go Taewook yielded his opinion.


"Thank you. Thank you so much."


Ji Jinhee held Go Taewook's hands with both of his.


Confident that his intuition would strike once again.


The Labyrinth Minotaur.


"The entrance is bigger than I thought."


Taehyun didn't hide his first impression.


"Kuhaha. Are you scared?"


"I just said the entrance was big. But excessive complacency is definitely a poison."


There was a bone in his words.


Kwon Kanghyuk, who felt the bone in his words, stopped laughing heartily and flinched.


He was reminded of the time he had kneeled before Taehyun after being careless.


"Hey... Once you get back, let's fight again."


"I'll consider it if we successfully conquer the labyrinth."


Taehyun smiled, twirling Aslan around.


"This guy..."


Just as Kwon Kanghyuk was about to get agitated by the simple provocation.


"Guild Leader. The formation is complete."


The adjutant, who had finished preparing to enter the labyrinth, approached and reported.


The hundred members were divided into ten parties.


Twenty porters and ten guides.


Twenty healers and magic-type awakeners each.


And thirty close-combat awakeners, including Taehyun.


It was a composition worthy of a large-scale raid party.


"Good. We're entering the Labyrinth Minotaur now. I'm leaving anyone who falls behind, so stay focused and follow me! Got it, you guys?!"


"Yes!!!"


Together with the guild members, who were full of spirit, Kwon Kanghyuk entered the labyrinth.


'I have to earn my keep.'


The first labyrinth raid since his regression.


Taehyun took his first step.


The first battle broke out as soon as they entered the labyrinth.


Twenty or so B-rank Minotaur monsters appeared.


The party members quickly scattered into battle formations and took their positions.


The tanks blocked the Minotaurs, who wielded weapons called Battle Axes.


Magic-type skills were fired from behind them.


Fire. Water. Wind. Lightning. Earth.


After a wave of elemental magic swept through, the close-combat awakeners followed.


'Should I help a little?'


Taehyun activated his skill to earn his keep.


Ting.


[You use the skill 'Lord's Heart (B)'. 99 targets are identified. Strength increases by 1. Health increases by 1. Speed increases by 1. Magic power increases by 1.]


The effect wasn't great as there were 99 targets.


'But atmosphere is important.'


As Taehyun expected.


The party members, who had received various buffs, began to push back the Minotaurs with overwhelming firepower.


"Hoo? You had a skill like that too?"


Kwon Kanghyuk, who had been watching from a distance behind.


He checked the status window and approached Taehyun.


He had become curious as Taehyun, who had engaged him in close combat, was now using buff skills.


"As many people as there are, the effect is more insignificant than I thought."


"Huh. You're a fascinating guy the more I know you. You really should join our guild..."


"I refuse."


Ignoring Kwon Kanghyuk, who was licking his lips, Taehyun's gaze turned to the battlefield.


It only took two minutes for the twenty Minotaurs to meet their deaths.


It ended in an instant without Kwon Kanghyuk and Taehyun, who could be said to be the party's top power, needing to step in.


"They're strong."


"We only picked the elite. This much is basic. Back in my day..."


Kwon Kanghyuk began to give advice, showing off his Abyss veteran side.


Letting those words pass in one ear and out the other.


Taehyun once again examined the faces of those who made up the raid team.


Those in charge of combat were at least B-rank to A-rank awakeners.


'We'll get to the middle without any problems.'


With the firepower of those who had received various buffs, even A-rank monsters wouldn't be a match for them.


Unless two or more S-rank monsters appeared, it seemed that Taehyun and Kwon Kanghyuk wouldn't need to step in.


No, just as he was thinking that they might be able to catch even S-rank monsters with this many people.


"We'll have a 10-minute maintenance period now!! This is just a warm-up, so stay alert, you guys!!"


Kwon Kanghyuk, who had confirmed that Taehyun wasn't listening to him, grumbled and shouted.


"Yes!!"


Looking at the Onsaemi-ro guild members, who were shouting in unison with loyalty.


'This is quite normal on the outside, but...'


As Taehyun knew what was going to happen in the future, he could only click his tongue.


The vice guild leader of the Malignant Guild, 'Shadow'.


He was receiving a report from his subordinate in a dark room.


"Report. The chairman of the Vietnam Player Association has surrendered. With this, Vietnam can be overthrown at any time."


"It took longer than I thought."


The subordinate quickly lowered his head at Shadow's reprimand.


"I'm sorry. Surveillance of the Maims has become more severe recently..."


"Is that so? Since you've achieved the result anyway, I won't pursue it any further. What else?"


"The movements of Night Walker and the Shinhan Association are unusual. It's possible that they've noticed our plan..."


"Yoo Ah-young. That fox-like woman must be behind it."


Shadow scoffed, recalling Yoo Ah-young's face.


She was skilled not only in personal combat but also in handling information.


She was truly a woman worthy of the word 'hero'.


Rather, that was why.


She was a difficult existence for the Maims who opposed her.


"Shall we take care of her?"


The subordinate asked quietly, watching Shadow's expression.


"Leave her alone. If we start something now, the damage to us will be significant. There's no need to create an incident while the Guild Leader is away."


"But if we continue to let information leak like this..."


Shadow was relaxed despite the subordinate's concerns.


"It's important to let the enemies be complacent. We're the ones getting information too."


People are not perfect and always show gaps.


That thought was right, and the black hands of the Malignant Guild were now reaching as far as foreign countries.


But above all.


"Internal enemies are the most terrifying. What about the other four major guilds?"


In response to Shadow's question, additional reports were made about the Player Association, Night Walker, Magicians, and Alchemists.


And then it was Onsaemi-ro's turn.


"Kwon Kanghyuk with Kim Taehyun."


Kim Taehyun had already raided the Double Dungeon with Yoo Ah-young.


Whether it was by his own will or not, he was indirectly harming the Malignant Guild.


That much was a clear fact.


Looking back on Kim Taehyun's actions so far.


If they left him alone, there was a high possibility that even the infamous labyrinth would be conquered.


"But it's not convenient for that place to be conquered yet."


"Don't worry. There are five S-rank Maims who have infiltrated. Even if they complete the conquest, Kwon Kanghyuk and Kim Taehyun will both not be unharmed."


"I see. I have high expectations."


Five S-rank Maims and two S-rank players.


Recalling what would happen in the labyrinth.


A sinister smile spread across Shadow's face.


Okay, here's the translation:


Episode 65


"We're about halfway there now."


The man walking beside Kwon Kang-hyuk said, checking the map.


His skill, as an A-rank guide, was 'Remembering Footsteps.'


His map, created by Kwon Kang-hyuk's closest aide and vice guild leader, had about half of the Labyrinth Minotaur brightly colored in.


All the paths the raid team had already taken.


As befitting the name labyrinth, it boasted an intricate and complex roadmap.


But with excellent guides working together,


it wasn't surprising that they hadn't gone down a wrong path even once.


"Yeah. Fortunately, it's been smooth sailing so far."


Kwon Kang-hyuk said, looking around at the party members resting from the recent battle.


In the past 30 years, over 30,000 players had challenged the Labyrinth Minotaur and died.


Maps created based on the memories of those who survived are a great help to successors.


But the exploration that can be easily accomplished through those sacrifices ends here.


The information provided by 30 years of experience was coming to an end.


It also meant that Kwon Kang-hyuk's party would have to begin a daunting exploration from now on.


"Of course, that would have been the case if we hadn't obtained this."


Kwon Kang-hyuk took out a monster's horn from his pocket.


"That's..."


"Yeah. It's loot obtained after hunting the S-rank monster 'Tau King' in an exploration a year ago."


Tau King.


A high-ranking monster Kwon Kang-hyuk encountered by chance while exploring the depths.


A guy who swung around a battle-axe of unbelievable size like a toy.


"To think he'd run into the Guild Leader of all people. Bad luck for him."


"Well, it wasn't easy for me either."


Kwon Kang-hyuk, called the best tank in Shinhan Korea with 'Guardian of the Beast.'


The Tau King hunt that started with him at the center.


That fierce battle ended only after five casualties.


The information learned through Tau King's corpse was more valuable than expected.


"Who knew that that ignorant Tau King was from the Labyrinth Minotaur."


Entry into the labyrinth isn't as restrictive as a dungeon.


Not only monsters, but players can also enter and exit the labyrinth at any time.


However,


that's assuming they have the confidence to break through the attacks of the numerous monsters in the labyrinth and not get lost.


In that regard, 'Tau King' was a monster with enough capability.


He possessed strength equivalent to a high-ranking S-class player, and an estimated minimum age of over a thousand years.


Sure enough.


The same mana wavelength as the Labyrinth Minotaur registered with the association was measured from Tau King's corpse.


"Having escaped once means he can go back."


Crack.


Kwon Kang-hyuk stuck Tau King's horn into the labyrinth floor.


And,


another subordinate who had been waiting activated a prepared skill.


"Memory of the Earth."


Screeeeeech.


As if scorched by fire.


Black footprints began to appear on the maze.


Giant footprints matching Tau King's stride.


They would be connected to the end of this maze.


"Information has been entered into 'Remembering Footsteps.'"


The subordinate nodded, looking at the map showing the new route.


"How long does it last?"


"About twelve hours if we have enough potions."


"Good. That should be enough. We'll continue the exploration from now on!"


At Kwon Kang-hyuk's shout filled with magic power, the guild members who had been resting here and there got up.


"We'll use this place as an advance base and leave twenty resident troops. The rest will explore the labyrinth with me!"


"Uoooooo!!"


"That's our Guild Leader!!"


"If we conquer this place, does that mean we're going back into salary negotiations?!"


Behind the excited shouts of the guild members filled with hope.


"I don't know what's at the end of this labyrinth, but we'll conquer it within ten hours."


Only Tae-hyun, among the bustling players,


looked at the scene with a bitter expression.


After that, the labyrinth conquest went smoothly.


The dark parts of the map learned through Tau King.


At the point where there was no longer any worry about getting lost, the labyrinth conquest was as good as half a success.


The remaining half was slowly being filled by the guild members of Onsaemiro, led by Kwon Kang-hyuk, whose morale was at its peak.


Thud. Thud. Thud.


While Kwon Kang-hyuk, who had activated his skill, was attracting attention.


Ten guild members severed the Royal Minotaur's breath.


The S-rank monster was hunted without a single casualty.


Guild members shouted in victory from all over the place.


Kwon Kang-hyuk shouted once again.


"Take a 20-minute break and then set off again!"


"Yes!"


Passing by the guild members drinking potions in place, Tae-hyun approached Kwon Kang-hyuk.


"To come this far without a single casualty. You're really amazing."


At Tae-hyun's flattering words, Kwon Kang-hyuk grinned as if it were nothing.


"Exaggerated rumors are bound to be exaggerated. Looks like you're itching for a fight since you haven't had to draw your sword?"


It was Kwon Kang-hyuk's instruction to exclude Tae-hyun to the rear, saying that there was no need to unnecessarily interfere.


Thanks to this, Tae-hyun has only been using 'Lord's Heart' since entering the labyrinth.


He himself had nothing to be disappointed about, but Kwon Kang-hyuk's thoughts were different.


"I'm not as crazy about fighting as you are, Guild Leader."


"Tsk. Then just keep casting buffs in the rear."


Kwon Kang-hyuk spoke teasingly, but Tae-hyun didn't care.


"I wish I could. But we should start to get nervous soon."


"Tch. You're just worried because you're an abyss beginner. Have a little more confidence in the power you have."


"I have plenty of pride. It's just that."


Tae-hyun paused for a moment and looked around at the guild members resting nearby.


Comrades who have been through thick and thin together.


Brothers who share blood.


Talented people from other countries who were scouted with high salaries.


All of them, united under the guild of Onsaemiro, are smiling and resting due to the smooth conquest.


To Tae-hyun, who vaguely knows what will happen in the future, that appearance almost seemed fake.


"There's usually a good reason for a bad reputation."


"What do you mean?"


"Well, wouldn't the Guild Leader, who's more of a veteran than I am, know better?"


"Such a bland guy."


Leaving Kwon Kang-hyun, who was puffing out air, behind, Tae-hyun returned to his original position.


And less than 10 minutes later, the labyrinth began to shake.


Rumble rumble rumble.


'Here it comes.'


The labyrinth's hidden trap, unknown to anyone at the current time.


The structural changes of the labyrinth.


"W-what is this?!"


"Earthquake?!"


"The temperature..."


Those who were resting shuddered and quickly got up.


In a short period of time, the surrounding climate changed, and it was repeated getting dark and light.


Above all else.


Rustle rustle rustle.


Grass sprouted from the ground, and the terrain began to change.


"Everyone, gather in one place!"


"Don't get separated from the person next to you!"


Those in charge of each party shouted, but not all eighty awakeners were calm.


No, it would be more accurate to say that there was no way to stop the labyrinth's changes with human power.


The conquest team that had been gathered together began to split apart one by one due to the shaking earth.


Tae-hyun also entrusted himself to the labyrinth that was changing as it pleased.


'Stone Skin' was activated in preparation for the worst.


Rumble rumble rumble.


Along with the thunder that struck down.


The view went dark for a moment.


The screams of pandemonium gradually died down.


After a while.


What was visible when the view returned was not dozens of people, but only four.


All of them had expressions that could not hide their embarrassment at what had just happened.


Only Tae-hyun.


"It looks like we'll have to reorganize the party."


He just casually said, looking at them.


"I recommend Tae-hyun as the party leader."


"Me too."


"Please take care of us."


"......"


Unanimous except for one person.


This is because the party leader is usually the strongest in the group.


He received three active recommendations.


Tae-hyun opened the status window as if he couldn't help it and reorganized the party.


The existing party had already been disconnected as the distance increased.


"Since everyone says so. I'll temporarily take on the role of party leader."


Tae-hyun bowed to the four men and women he would be with.


"Then. Please briefly introduce yourself and your skills. First, I am..."


'Stone Skin', 'Stealth', 'Paralysis', 'King's Authority', 'Chains of Restraint', 'Lord's Heart'.


Starting with Tae-hyun, who revealed that he had seven skills, a brief self-introduction followed.


"I'm Shin Jin-ho. I have the A-rank skill 'Iron Wall Shield'."


"I'm Miranda. I have the B-rank skills 'Fire Wall' and 'Fire Rain'."


"I'm Choi Won-seok. I have the B-rank skill 'Traces of the Earth' as a guide class."


"Park Seong-ho. I have the B-rank skill 'Magic Bullet'."


The introduction ended with the taciturn man.


His attitude was almost arrogant compared to the others, but Tae-hyun didn't care.


It was the same for Tae-hyun, who couldn't trust them.


'One tank, two ranged dealers, and one guide. No healer.'


Tae-hyun revealed his regret without hiding it.


"Still, it's a relief that we have Won-seok oppa. Otherwise, we would have really become lost."


Miranda said in clumsy Korean.


She was a talented person who had come to Korea as an American exchange student and was scouted by Onsaemiro.


"Miranda. I appreciate the words, but... I can't completely break through this labyrinth with the 'Traces of the Earth' I have. Without the Vice Guild Leader's map..."


"Damn it. If I had known this would happen, I would have brought more people..."


"Did anyone expect this would happen? How hard was it to gather this many people..."


Negative words came out from here and there.


Tae-hyun, who roughly grasped the situation, clapped his hands.


Attention was focused in an instant.


"Then it's dangerous to just stay still like this, so let's move. Choi Won-seok, please guide us in a direction where we can meet other guild members as much as possible."


"Ah, okay. I'll try my best."


Choi Won-seok nodded and took the lead using his skill.


Tae-hyun and his party followed behind.


"I wonder if all the other guild members are safe..."


"Miranda is so kind. To take care of her colleagues first even in this situation."


"Huhu. We've been through thick and thin together many times. Of course, it's my first time with the current party members... Ah, Kim Tae-hyun, I heard this is your first abyss exploration?"


Miranda changed the topic to lighten the depressed atmosphere.


"That's right."


"Hoh ho ho. Then we'll have to play the role of seniors."


"Haha. Still, I'll save the party leader's face."


"Please take care of me."


People spoke to Tae-hyun from here and there, and the atmosphere naturally became friendly.


It was a rare sight in the labyrinth where countless people die.


Of course, there were also people who didn't like this atmosphere.


"Everyone, focus. If you haven't forgotten that this is a labyrinth."


Park Seong-ho, in his mid-thirties, said in a blunt voice.


He didn't like the fact that Tae-hyun, who was a rolling stone, was the party leader, and that the party members were clinging to him.


'Tch. A growing awakener?'


He was the one who had passed numerous tests to awaken a B-rank skill and contract with the giant guild Onsaemiro.


There was no way he could like Tae-hyun, who was making a name for himself by being born with a golden spoon skill thanks to his luck.


"Park Seong-ho is right. Not being nervous in the abyss means you're closer to death. Or so I've heard."


"Huhu. Wonderful. Such humility even though you have that much power."


The friendly atmosphere continued with Miranda's laughter.


Park Seong-ho also didn't hide his displeased attitude.


'Humility, huh...'


Tae-hyun clicked his tongue and moved his feet.


It didn't take long for the atmosphere to change.


Episode 66


Taehyun used his skill.


It was to hunt the monster in front of him.


Ting!


[Using Skill: Monarch's Heart (B). Identifying 4 targets. Strength increases by 5. Stamina increases by 5. Speed increases by 5. Magic Power increases by 5.]


Crack.


Whoosh. Sizzle.


Bang. Bang. Bang-bang. Bang-bang-bang.


'They're pretty good. They can somehow handle two A-rank monsters.'


As expected of Onsaemiro's assault team.


Despite being only three people excluding the Guide, they weren't being pushed back while dealing with two A-rank monsters.


"Oh...!!"


At that moment, a monster that had circled around aimed for Choi Wonseok.


The Guide class's combat ability is no different from that of an ordinary person.


Nevertheless, he only took a quick breath.


Soon, he naturally drew the dagger from his waist.


It was an instinctive movement.


But before that.


Slash.


Taehyun's Asran slashed past, cutting down the monster.


It was truly a movement befitting the term 'lightning fast'.


"Are you alright?"


Taehyun asked Choi Wonseok, who had a dark expression.


"I lived thanks to you. I almost died if I had made a mistake."


"Let's finish this soon."


Taehyun left the greeting behind and rushed towards the newly appearing monsters.


Nine B-rank Minotaurs and one A-rank Knight Minotaur leading them.


It was a force that would have put ordinary players on the edge of life and death, but.


For Taehyun, it was already nothing more than a light warm-up.


Slash. Slash. Thwack.


There was no need to use 'Knight King's Aura' or 'Chains of Binding'.


He moved zigzag at an incredible speed, slashing and slashing again.


Clang!!


Even if they blocked the attack with their battle axes.


Crack!!!


He channeled magic power into Asran as it was, and cut through the Minotaur along with the battle axe.


"......"


"......"


"......"


Shin Jinho, Miranda, and Park Seongho, who were only holding off two A-rank monsters with the three of them, were speechless.


"What are you doing?"


Taehyun, who had finished dealing with his share of monsters in an instant, pointed at the monsters trembling in fear and asked.


"Ah, yes."


"We, we will take care of them quickly too."


"Tch."


The three men and women, who had renewed their fighting spirit, cornered the two A-rank monsters.


With Taehyun's support, they were able to succeed in the hunt.


In terms of time alone, it was a battle that lasted less than ten minutes.


"Hoo~ I lived thanks to Taehyun-nim. As expected, it's difficult to deal with monsters that have commanders."


Shin Jinho said, wiping the sweat that had formed on his forehead.


It was a battle that would have lasted another thirty minutes if it wasn't for Taehyun's help.


"I see. Is everyone alright? Are you hurt anywhere?"


Taehyun asked indifferently. It was the usual concern a party leader has for their party members.


Nothing more, nothing less.


The party members weren't fools enough to not notice that demeanor.


"This much is a piece of cake."


"But if this kind of battle continues, our stamina will quickly run out."


Looking at Miranda, who was exhaling heavily, Taehyun put on a kind expression.


"Still, everyone is amazing. It seems Wonseok-nim can use a sword a little bit too."


Taehyun pointed to the dagger at Choi Wonseok's waist and praised him.


Because he knew from his porter experience in his past life.


That it's not easy for a Guide to have that much courage.


"Oh my. Oppa. I told you not to push yourself and just run away."


"Yeah, Miranda is right. The best way for a Guide to help is to survive."


"Sorry. I wanted to be of some help too..."


Choi Wonseok scratched the back of his head apologetically at Miranda and Shin Jinho's concerns.


Park Seongho, who was watching the scene, opened his mouth as if he didn't like it.


It was directed towards Taehyun.


"Why didn't you use your skill?"


"What do you mean?"


Taehyun feigned ignorance as if he didn't know the meaning.


Park Seongho asked again.


"With your wide-area skill, you could have dealt with this many monsters alone. Or am I wrong?"


"Se, Seongho-ya..."


"Seongho oppa... you're being too rude to Taehyun-nim."


"Yes, Seongho-ssi. Even if he's an S-rank, there's no need to push himself..."


The party members except for Park Seongho shielded Taehyun.


No matter how much of a Taehyun he was, it was burdensome to face three A-rank monsters and more than ten B-rank monsters alone.


That was the reason.


But.


Pfft.


Taehyun let out a laugh.


The words they wanted to say were clear, and Taehyun was the one who orchestrated this situation by understanding the party members' tendencies.


Therefore.


There was no longer the same kindness or mercy in the words he spoke.


"No. Park Seongho-nim is right. If I had set my mind to it, it wouldn't have taken me even five minutes to deal with those monsters just now."


"......"


"......"


"Taehyun-nim...?"


Bewilderment appeared on the faces of Shin Jinho, Miranda, and Choi Wonseok.


"You..."


Park Seongho also glared at Taehyun with an angry expression.


"But why should I do that?"


"What?"


"I know that everyone here is an elite assault team belonging to Onsaemiro, but. Why are you trying to rely on me, who is experiencing the Abyss for the first time?"


"Hey! Is that something you can say..."


Taehyun clicked his tongue at Park Seongho, whose voice was getting louder and louder.


"Don't misunderstand. I have no intention of fighting monsters at the cost of sacrificing myself."


"You're the party leader..."


"The party leader is also just a member of the party."


Taehyun cut off the words as if it were impossible.


Park Seongho clenched his fist tightly, and eventually, Shin Jinho and Choi Wonseok, who were listening, opened their mouths with dark expressions.


"Taehyun-nim. But not using that much power when you have it... it's hard for us to accept that either."


"If this kind of battle continues... we might lose our lives."


The sense of trust had disappeared from their eyes as they looked at Taehyun, and distrust began to sprout.


It wasn't that they didn't know the meaning of what Park Seongho had said.


Even so, they had remained silent because they thought that Taehyun, the party leader, must have had some other thoughts.


But with this kind of mindset.


It was no longer possible to entrust their lives completely.


"An S-rank player isn't invincible. Moreover, we have to save our magic power in a situation where we don't know what else will come out in the future. We don't have many potions left either."


As he said, there was no porter in Taehyun's party, and the potions they had were all that the individuals possessed.


Even so, it was difficult to justify such selfish remarks.


"......"


"......"


"......"


"You son of a bitch."


Park Seongho's curse broke the silence.


"If you understand the situation, be faithful to your assigned roles. In the Abyss, you have to protect yourself."


The amicable atmosphere was nowhere to be found.


Everyone remained silent in the subdued atmosphere.


In the midst of all this.


"Well, shall we rest for a bit before going?"


Only Taehyun was acting as if nothing had happened, with a bright expression.


After that, there was no change in Taehyun's attitude.


He fulfilled his role as the party leader, but he didn't use his strength recklessly.


The party members, who understood what Taehyun was thinking, had no choice but to fight the monsters to the death.


If they let their guard down, relying on the power of the S-rank player, they might lose their lives to a monster's blind attack at any moment.


With the way Taehyun had shown himself, it was more than possible for that to happen.


'Now it feels like we're actually doing a dungeon raid.'


Nothing is as dangerous as letting your guard down in the Abyss.


In that sense, they had lost some of their tension just because Taehyun was an S-rank player.


It was something that wouldn't have happened if they had become a party with Kwon Ganghyeok.


'The proper way for a party is to fix the lax discipline.'


He may look like a late teenager on the outside, but in reality, he's been a porter in the Abyss for over a decade.


He had watched many talented players and Awakened ones meet their end from the side.


Perhaps that's why.


He was more sensitive than anyone else when it came to team play.


'Still, at this tempo, it's only a matter of time before someone collapses.'


They had already encountered over a hundred monsters with this party.


There's nothing more insane than sitting still in the dungeon and waiting to be surrounded by monsters.


They were constantly moving forward, but...


The level and number of monsters appearing were gradually increasing.


As Taehyun had predicted, the first casualty occurred not long after.


Miranda, who had experienced dehydration after using her skill.


Was rammed by a Minotaur.


"Kyaa!!"


Miranda screamed and flew into the air.


And.


Crunch.


The sound of Miranda's bones breaking as she crashed to the ground could be heard.


It had happened while Taehyun was in the midst of fighting the Royal Minotaur.


'That's going to be a deep wound?'


Only then did Taehyun, who had not been using his full power, unleash his magic power.


"Krrk?"


The Royal Minotaur flinched and stepped back, startled by the unexpected power.


The S-rank monster instinctively felt fear.


"Let's end the game here."


Swoosh.


Taehyun's figure, who had used 'Stone Skin' and 'Stealth', disappeared in an instant.


Crack.


Taehyun's hand, which had already climbed on top of its head, grabbed and tore off the Royal Minotaur's horn.


Before it could even scream.


Stab.


The massive body of the Royal Minotaur, all of its vitals stabbed, collapsed as it was.


Whoosh.


Thwack.


Asran, which had left Taehyun's hand, was embedded in the head of the Minotaur that was about to strike down on Miranda.


"Everyone, gather around Miranda!"


Taehyun shouted, pouring magic power into his voice.


Shin Jinho and Park Seongho, who had been busy blocking the Minotaur horde, hurriedly retreated.


Choi Wonseok was pouring healing potions on the fallen Miranda.


Ting!


[Using Skill: Knight King's Aura (B). Identifying the target.]


Thump!!


A massive magic power began to crush the surviving Minotaurs.


It was a Minotaur who tried to block the intangible power with the battle axe.


Crack. Crack. Crack.


In the end, it couldn't withstand it and all the bones in its body were broken.


That was the end of it.


"Miranda!! Are you alright?!!"


"Damn it! Healing potions aren't enough!!"


"......"


"How is she?"


Taehyun, who had arrived late, asked, looking at the gathered party members.


Their faces as they looked at Taehyun were twitching, unable to hide their hostility.


Regardless of that.


Taehyun took out a low-grade healing potion from his bag and poured it into Miranda's mouth.


The bleeding had stopped because Choi Wonseok had poured healing potions on the wound beforehand.


But Miranda groaned as if she couldn't help but feel the pain.


"What should we do? Treatment is impossible without a healer."


"We need to join another party right away."


"But if we move in this state, there's a risk of the wound getting worse."


Shin Jinho, Choi Wonseok, and Park Seongho looked at Taehyun's face.


They were passing the responsibility to the party leader, who had the final say.


It would have been a concern that they would have pondered over quite a bit if it were normal, but Taehyun's answer was already decided.


"If we leave her like this, Miranda-ssi will surely not last an hour."


At those words, Shin Jinho and Park Seongho nodded.


Because they, who were physical-type Awakened, knew better than anyone that Miranda's body, who was a magic-type Awakened, wasn't strong.


Even if she was a multiple skill Awakened, she would only be slightly better than Choi Wonseok, who was a Guide.


"If we stay here, it's only a matter of time before we're surrounded by monsters. In the current state, we might have to prepare for the annihilation of the party."


"Then...?"


"Could it be...?"


"So."


Taehyun, who had made his decision, opened his mouth indifferently.


A moment later.


"You son of a bitch!!"


Park Seongho couldn't hold back and grabbed Taehyun by the collar.


Episode 67


"Say it again."


Park Sung-ho, grabbing his collar, growled.


However, Tae-hyun's expression remained as calm as before.


"I said I'm leaving you behind."


At those words, Park Sung-ho drew the gun from his waist.


It was the magic-grade item, 'Cold Rock 1851.'


"Are you out of your mind, you bastard?!"


He shouted, aiming the gun at Tae-hyun.


As if it was his last chance, telling him to speak properly this time.


"Leaving you behind is the best option. And I should be asking if you are in your right mind."


Click. Whoo-oong.


Park Sung-ho menacingly raised his magic power.


He was about to activate his skill 'Magic Bullet' at any moment.


"I don't consider a guy like you a comrade. What's the difference between you and a Maim?"


"A Maim, huh... That's harsh."


As if he hadn't expected to be called a Maim,


Tae-hyun frowned.


"Shut up!! I no longer consider you the party leader..."


"Is there really a need to point a gun at me over something like this?"


Tae-hyun lightly waved his hand.


With just that, the gun in Park Sung-ho's hand was now in Tae-hyun's.


It was a fleeting moment.


A speed that even those around Park Sung-ho could hardly perceive.


"......!!"


"Park Sung-ho-ssi. There won't be a second time."


Tae-hyun, as if nothing had happened, returned the gun to Park Sung-ho.


You're not a threat to me.


Understanding that meaning, Park Sung-ho gritted his teeth.


"I'll say it again, I want to leave Miranda behind. Of course, I'm not forcing anyone, so those who want to stay can stay. Whether you stay here and be hunted by monsters, or join me in finding other guild members. The choice is yours, and you are responsible for the consequences."


"We're comrades! We wouldn't do something like that, unlike a kid like you...!!"


Park Sung-ho, who was shouting, suddenly stopped.


It was because of the two men who had quietly moved to Tae-hyun's side.


"We... will follow Tae-hyun-nim."


"I... will go with you as well."


Shin Jin-ho and Choi Won-seok, standing beside Tae-hyun with their heads bowed.


Seeing the two men, Park Sung-ho's face was filled with bewilderment.


"How could everyone..."


Just a moment ago, they were laughing and joking with Miranda as if they were siblings.


How could their attitude change so drastically?


It was something that Park Sung-ho's values couldn't comprehend.


At that moment, Miranda, groaning, grabbed Park Sung-ho's leg.


"Miran...da...?"


"I'm... alright..."


Not wanting to cause conflict in the party because of her, she forced a smile.


That made Park Sung-ho even more heartbroken.


'If the guild leader were here, he wouldn't abandon a comrade like this.'


Once again, he thought of Kwon Kang-hyuk, somewhere in the labyrinth.


The best tanker in Shinhan Korea.


If he, instead of Kim Tae-hyun, were here, Miranda wouldn't be lying there like that.


Park Sung-ho wanted to shout that at Tae-hyun.


But reality was harsh.


The one here now was Kim Tae-hyun, who became an S-rank player at the young age of 19.


And while he was affiliated with the large guild Onsaemi-ro...


'I'm just a B-rank Awakened who hasn't even obtained a player license...'


The inferiority and self-loathing that he had forgotten since joining Onsaemi-ro reared their heads.


Shin Jin-ho and Choi Won-seok, unable to watch any longer, spoke up.


"If we stay here, monsters will swarm us."


"Right. Stopping in the labyrinth is as good as death. Going together is..."


Shake, shake.


Park Sung-ho shook his head.


"I... I won't abandon my comrades."


That was the end of it.


"I understand. Then I hope you stay safe."


Tae-hyun bowed his head and turned away without hesitation.


Because in a little while, monsters smelling blood would swarm in.


He felt like he was using Miranda and Park Sung-ho as bait against his will.


"I'm sorry."


"Please... take care of Miranda."


Shin Jin-ho and Choi Won-seok made strange expressions before following Tae-hyun.


"Damn it."


Park Sung-ho gave Miranda, who was panting, a healing potion.


All he could do as a B-rank Awakened.


Was just stare at the three people walking away.


Taang. Taang. Tatang. Tang. Tang.


Park Sung-ho's skill 'Magic Bullet.'


The magic bullets accurately struck the Minotaur's head.


Continuous impacts were inflicted on its vitals, heart, and head.


Koo-oong.


The Minotaur finally stopped moving and collapsed.


"Hoo..."


An hour had passed since Tae-hyun left. So far, only two B-rank Minotaurs had appeared.


Park Sung-ho chugged a low-grade magic potion from his backpack, and then poured a mid-grade healing potion on Miranda, who was lying on the ground.


"Kim Tae-hyun... you son of a bitch."


Healing potions only helped speed up the recovery process; they didn't provide complete healing.


Therefore, Miranda's condition didn't improve any further.


She really needed the help of healers now.


Or the use of a 'Healing Scroll' containing the power of top-tier healers.


"Don't... Don't blame yourself so much, Sung-ho oppa."


Miranda squeezed Park Sung-ho's hand, mustering her strength.


Before he knew it, Miranda's term of address for Park Sung-ho had changed to "oppa."


Miranda, gradually losing her strength.


Park Sung-ho's face was filled with regret as he looked at her.


"But... but those guys are... neither comrades nor anything else..."


Park Sung-ho took the little healing potion he had left from his bag and poured it into her mouth.


"Even... even I would have... So... Thank you..."


Excessive camaraderie could turn into other feelings.


Park Sung-ho was slowly developing feelings of affection for Miranda.


"Miranda. I'll save you no matter what. And when we get out of here..."


When we get out of here, I'll confess.


Park Sung-ho, swallowing the rest of his words, stroked Miranda's face.


"Oppa... Thank you... More than that, how much... time has passed?"


"It's been an hour. But don't worry. If we hold out for just another hour or two, other guild members will definitely come."


"One hour..."


Miranda repeated weakly and closed her eyes.


Tears welled up in her eyes.


"Miranda! Keep your head straight!! If you lose consciousness here..."


Poof.


Park Sung-ho, who was shouting, stopped talking as he felt a pain in his chest.


"Huh?"


His gaze turned to his chest, the source of the pain.


A thorn that had pierced his chest.


Surprisingly, that thorn was connected to Miranda.


S-rank magic skill 'Witch's Nail.'


He certainly knew it as that skill.


"Cough..."


Park Sung-ho spat out a mouthful of blood.


At the same time, she, who had been lying on the floor without moving, got up.


Her movements were as if the wound in her abdomen was nothing.


"Oh my~ Geez. I thought I was going to die of boredom. I even teared up from yawning."


"Miran...da?"


"I deliberately missed the heart."


Poof poof poof poof.


Soon, other nails elongated and pierced Park Sung-ho's body.


"Cough... cough... Why..."


Bleeding occurred in as many as ten places.


Park Sung-ho, who had slumped down, began to tremble.


Miranda crouched down to match his eye level.


"Geez~ Sung-ho oppa. You're really slow on the uptake. Are you perhaps mentally challenged?"


"Keuhack... Cough..."


Park Sung-ho silently spat out blood.


His expression was still one of disbelief.


"Even if it's a weak body like oppa's, did you think I would die from this much injury?"


She smirked and took out a scroll from her bosom.


A top-grade healing scroll.


The scroll, which was being sold for a whopping 10 billion won on the black market, was torn, and a pure white light seeped into Miranda.


Hwaaaaak. Sssssssss.


As if she had received treatment from an A-rank healer.


Her body quickly recovered.


"Geez~ The effect is killer as always. Huh? Oppa, want one too? I happen to have one more left."


"Cough... Cough..."


Park Sung-ho, who was no longer in a state to answer, made choking sounds.


"Hahaha. But this is a 10 billion won scroll. Do you think oppa's life is worth 10 billion won?"


Park Sung-ho reached out his hand with difficulty.


Specifically towards the scroll that Miranda was holding.


"Cough... Miran... Save..."


Miranda slapped away his desperately reaching hand.


"You i***t. How dare a guy like you covet me? Me, the Triple Magician Milena-nim?"


At Miranda's words, Park Sung-ho's eyes widened.


Triple Magician Milena.


An S-rank Maim from the United States with a bounty of 50 billion won on her head.


Her appearance was unknown, but her notoriety was famous regardless of the country.


Tears flowed from Park Sung-ho's eyes.


It wasn't because of the pain that made him spit blood.


As a comrade, as a man.


He was pathetic for being so foolishly deceived by a Maim.


"Son of a bitch."


Regardless of the bleeding from his entire body, Park Sung-ho glared at Milena.


Having given up on everything, he uttered curses.


Thud.


"Geez."


As if finding Park Sung-ho pathetic, Milena kicked him over.


"You i***t. Still can't figure out the situation? That's why you're crawling on the floor like this right now. Huh? Huh??"


Thud. Thud. Thud. Thud.


With his face buried in the floor, the kicking continued.


"Kkeuek... Kkeuheuk..."


Park Sung-ho, with various emotions mixed together, began to sob.


"Are you frustrated? Huh? Are you frustrated~ As Kim Tae-hyun said earlier, you are responsible for yourself~ Hahaha~ Geez~"


Kim Tae-hyun.


That name threw a stone into Park Sung-ho's heart.


A light of regret belatedly appeared on his tear-streaked face.


Milena noticed Park Sung-ho's thoughts and continued to speak.


"Of course, that guy is probably wandering somewhere in this labyrinth right now? How much did I have to cater to that cocky brat's whims... Augh~ Geez!!"


Thud. Thud. Thud. Thud. Thud.


Milena began to trample on Park Sung-ho, as if she was annoyed just thinking about it.


"You... St like... B***d..."


It was when Park Sung-ho's consciousness was gradually fading due to the ruthless kicking and bleeding.


"You shouldn't play with a man's heart."


Milena's kicking stopped at the familiar voice.


"You...!!"


Unlike Milena, whose expression hardened at the appearance of Tae-hyun, whom she thought had already disappeared.


Park Sung-ho was able to faint with a peaceful heart.


"No, how could you..."


Unlike Milena, who instinctively asked in surprise.


Tae-hyun still had the same relaxed expression as an hour ago.


"Oh, come on. Did you really think I left you behind? Maybe it's because my charm stats went up. You're easily fooled by my acting."


Milena frowned at the word acting.


"Geez. What happened to the others?"


"Wow, Miranda. No, Maim Milena. Aren't you going to stop acting as well?"


"Answer the question. Before I rip that mouth of yours."


Tae-hyun shrugged at her threat.


"Three people went, and only one came back. What do you think happened?"


"......!!"


"Then shall we finish the story we were telling?"


Ignoring Milena's surprised expression.


Tae-hyun used his first skill.


Episode 68


Ding.


[Using skill Chain of Shackles (B). Identifying target.]


Swish, swish.


Chains materialized instantly and moved to capture Milena's body.


However, being an S-rank demon wasn't just a title.


"Ah... Ahahaha!!"


Milena laughed, dodging the chains trying to bind her.


'Not bad.'


She was clearly an Awakened of the mage class.


Yet, her movements were extraordinary.


It made one realize how stifled her movements must have been when she was acting as Miranda.


Just as Taehyun was about to use his second skill,


Milena's skill, 'Witch's Nails,' aimed for Taehyun's eyes.


Shoosh, shoosh, shoosh, shoosh.


From above, below, left, right, east, west, north, south.


Nails turned into thorns quickly cut off his escape routes.


Fsh.


One of her nails grazed Taehyun's neck as he dodged around.


[Mana infiltration detected. Afflicted with Witch's Poison (S). Resisting with mysterious power. Resistance successful.]


'Oh, it had this kind of additional effect.'


All Taehyun knew about the demon Milena was her appearance and that she possessed three skills.


He hadn't heard that the S-rank skill 'Witch's Nails' had this kind of effect.


'Well, it wouldn't be an S-rank skill if it didn't do this much.'


Thanks to the resistance of Gluttony, the 'Witch's Poison' had no effect.


However, Taehyun began to pant as if he were poisoned.


"Hmph. Is that all you've got? Can't even handle one little guy properly. You really are like vermin."


Milena, thinking she had gained the upper hand, withdrew her skill and sneered at Shin Jinho and Choi Wonseok.


They, too, were A-rank and B-rank demons.


Despite that, the reason they entrusted Taehyun to them was because of the Guide's special nature.


No matter how strong an S-rank player was, it was impossible to survive alone in a labyrinth.


Just leaving Taehyun in a suitable place and hiding would have been half the mission completed.


"Tsk. That's why you can't even use low-level things as consumables."


Milena spat on the ground and sat on Park Seongho, starting to groom her nails.


Taehyun would soon be begging for his life in front of her in less than three minutes.


The additional effect of the S-rank skill 'Witch's Nails' was 'Witch's Poison.'


She didn't even feel the need to use poison on Park Seongho,


And she used it on Taehyun, thinking it might become troublesome later.


But.


"You're just a loudmouth kid, too. Well, that's how all players are."


Milena mocked Taehyun, who was retreating with a stiff expression.


The match was as good as over.


Taehyun's defeat was because he underestimated her, thinking she was a magic-type.


"Why? Why are you doing this?"


Taehyun asked her with an incredulous expression.


His body was trembling slightly.


"Hmm? Didn't those vermin tell you?"


"They... committed suicide. With the poison in their teeth."


That was the truth.


Shin Jinho and Choi Wonseok, who had revealed their true colors, were quickly subdued.


Unable to bear the primal fear of the torture to come, they made an extreme choice.


That was why Taehyun was able to return earlier than Milena had expected.


"Hoho. Those vermin have an unexpectedly loyal side."


"Are you targeting Kwon Ganghyuk...?"


Taehyun asked with a determined expression.


Milena tilted her head as if she was pondering, seeing that.


"Should I tell you as a gift for your journey to the afterlife, or not? Hmm... Fine. I'll tell you."


Clap.


She clapped her hands and took out a cigarette from her pocket, putting it in her mouth.


"We received an order from above."


"An order...? What..."


"Well, isn't it obvious? To get rid of you and Kwon Ganghyuk and prevent the labyrinth from being conquered."


She lit the cigarette with 'Fire Wall' and enjoyed watching Taehyun's face contort in despair.


Looking at that, she could hardly resist the urge to talk.


"Don't be so upset. We didn't expect Kwon Ganghyuk to catch the runaway Tau King and bring it back. This place is one of our hideouts, after all."


"Damn it. There was a reason why it couldn't be conquered for 30 years."


"That's right~ It's hard for anyone but us to handle S-ranks who run around without knowing the world like you~ Fucking players."


"Then... Guild Leader Kwon Ganghyuk must be in the same state right now."


"He's going to be in even worse shape than you! Four S-rank demons are after him."


'……!!'


Taehyun couldn't help but be surprised by those words.


In his past life, Kwon Ganghyuk had dealt with two S-rank demons.


But this time, there were five, including Milena.


'Did the past change?'


If so, then the things at the end of the labyrinth might have changed as well.


Taehyun was having such complicated thoughts when.


"Hmm... More than that, you. You're tougher than you look? Aren't you starting to cramp?"


Milena looked at Taehyun, who was lost in thought, suspiciously.


No matter how strong an S-rank player was, they should be vomiting blood, their face changing color, or showing some symptoms by now.


Taehyun, who had roughly organized his thoughts, finally swung his arms around.


"Ah... this?"


It was flexible enough that he wouldn't be able to do it if the rigidity had started.


"No way...!!"


"My acting. Was it convincing?"


Taehyun raised the corners of his mouth with a smirk and took out Aslan from his waist.


"You're more interesting than I thought."


Milena used 'Witch's Nails' once again.


But.


Ting, ting, ting, ting.


Taehyun's Aslan knocked out the thorns with near-miraculous movements.


And.


Crack.


Taehyun's hand, using 'Stone Skin', grabbed two of Milena's thorns.


"I have better sensitivity than you guys think."


Shhh!!


Aslan, enveloped in mana, cut off the two thorns.


Milena, startled, stepped back.


Taehyun didn't miss that moment.


The distance between her and him quickly narrowed.


"Actually, I knew from the start."


"What...?"


"That you're the demon Milena."


"!!!"


She spat out the cigarette she was holding in her mouth.


As if it were a bullet.


The cigarette butt flew towards Taehyun's face.


Taehyun didn't dodge and swung Aslan.


Milena's chest was cut along with the cigarette butt.


"In Choi Wonseok's case, his posture was too good for a Guide. As if he had killed many real people."


Shhh.


Aslan cut off two more thorns.


"Shin Jinho revealed his identity as soon as I brought up your name."


Thwack.


Aslan was lodged in Milena's side.


"Cough...."


Whoosh.


Milena hastily cast 'Fire Wall'.


Taehyun quickly retreated.


In that gap, Milena drank a healing potion and a mana potion.


The wounds began to heal quickly.


"Then you should have just gone! Why did you come back here?! Do you want to die like this too?!"


Miranda screamed, stepping on Park Seongho's head, who had already fainted.


As with most S-ranks,


She didn't have much experience being cornered.


It was natural for emotions to explode.


Taehyun, watching the scene, let out a sneer.


"Whoa, whoa. A person isn't an object, you know. It's not good to play with them like that."


"Don't talk nonsense. I'm Milena!!"


"The other guys had that kind of reaction at first too."


Ignoring Taehyun's words, Milena used her skills.


B-rank skill 'Fire Wall'.


B-rank skill 'Fire Rain'.


S-rank skill 'Witch's Nails'.


Her skills were comparable to that of an intermediate S-rank player.


But.


Boom.


All three skills were canceled as Taehyun used a single skill.


When 'Aura of the Knight King' pressed down, all three skills were canceled.


"Milena. The price for trampling on a man's pure heart is never light, you know?"


Park Seongho, who was already fainting with his face covered in tears.


Taehyun raised the corners of his mouth as he looked at him.


"A healing scroll. You had something good."


Taehyun said, checking the two scrolls he took out of Milena's pocket.


One was a healing scroll, and the other was a warp scroll.


Healers and warp gate Awakeners often had a limit to the number of skills they could use in a day.


Especially for Awakeners above A-rank, the Association and the four major guilds were competing to scout them.


According to market logic,


It was only natural that scrolls containing skills cost more than 10 billion won each, including production and distribution margins.


Whoosh.


As the scroll was used, Park Seongho's body, which had been seriously injured, quickly recovered.


Instantly, the bleeding stopped, and the organs began to recover.


Adding the highest-grade healing potion that Taehyun had,


"Cough... cough...."


Park Seongho quickly regained consciousness.


"What... what is this...."


Park Seongho groped his body as if he couldn't believe it.


"Scrolls are good. It's just hard to get them."


Park Seongho, who had finally grasped the situation, lowered his head as if he was about to bow.


"T, thank you. Player Kim Taehyun... sir."


"Well, you can speak as before."


"Ah, no. I... I... was imprudent."


"Anyone would have been fooled. These guys are professionals."


Taehyun's gaze turned towards the former Onsaemi-ro guild member, Miranda.


To the current demon Milena.


Even while having scrolls worth a total of over 20 billion won stolen, the demon Milena couldn't resist.


It was all because of the 'Chains of Shackles' tightly wrapped around her body.


"It's best not to overdo it. From what I can see, your physical abilities don't seem that good."


Taehyun mocked her as she groaned.


'Chains of Shackles' had the additional ability to seal skills.


No matter how much of an S-rank Awakener Milena was,


Considering Taehyun's current level, she wouldn't be able to break free unless she was at least a high-level S-rank player.


It was impossible for her, who wasn't even a mid-to-high-level S-rank player.


"Kim Taehyun. Do you think you'll be safe after this?!"


"Forget about the obvious lines. How many of you came in here?"


"Hehe. If you want to know, start with these chains..."


Clang, clang, clang.


The chains binding her body increased in strength.


Crack, crack.


The bones in her arms and legs had long lost their function.


Even so, Taehyun didn't bat an eye.


"If you thought you could negotiate with that, you're wrong. I just asked."


Taehyun whispered in her ear, stepping on her neck as she fell.


"Cough... I'll kill you... definitely... the others..."


Just as Milena, grinding her teeth, was about to chew on the poison in her mouth,


Taehyun shoved the scroll, which had become an ordinary piece of paper, into her mouth.


"Are you going to do that too? It won't work this time."


"Cough... cough...."


Milena, who had failed to commit suicide, gasped for breath.


Only then did fear rise in her eyes.


"Now. Let's play a truth game."


Her mana was already fully recovered with potions.


Taehyun activated his skill.


Ding.


[Using skill Complete Hypnosis (B). Identifying target.]


It was inversely proportional to the rapidly depleting mana.


He could feel his fatigue rapidly increasing.


Taehyun replenished his mana with a potion and met Milena's eyes.


Taehyun's red eyes were reflected in her eyes filled with fear.


"Shall we talk about how many rats have sneaked in?"


To the irresistible question.


Shocking facts poured out of Milena's mouth.


69


[Magic consumption is accelerating.]


Taehyun stopped using his skills at the sight of the message window that reappeared.


"Hoo... This magic consumption is too severe."


Taehyun muttered after chugging the last magic potion.


Before his eyes.


Milena was kneeling and staring at the empty air.


Her eyes were vacant, and saliva dripped from her mouth.


It was hard to imagine that she had been an S-rank demon just moments before.


"Ugh... ah.... uh...."


Milena muttered an unidentifiable sound and hung her head.


"Geez, has her mind broken?"


Taehyun clicked his tongue and stood up.


He had no more business with her.


"Mr. Park Seongho?"


Taehyun called out to Park Seongho, who had watched all of this from the side.


"Y-Yes."


"Will you take care of the finishing touches?"


"Finishing... touches?"


He asked back, not understanding what Taehyun had said for a moment.


Taehyun silently pointed at Milena.


"Ah...!!"


Only then did Park Seongho understand the meaning and exclaimed softly.


Kim Taehyun, an S-rank player and his savior.


He was now.


Offering him the chance to kill Milena, the S-rank demon.


"......"


S-rank demon.


An evil of the world that grants not only a bounty but also tremendous contribution points upon capture or killing.


Even if it was just the act of delivering the final blow to the demon, for that reason alone.


The Player Association would give a commendation and a generous reward.


Given the recent atmosphere of the Player Association, they might even issue an honorary license.


Gulp.


Park Seongho swallowed dryly without realizing it.


But only for a moment.


Soon, he shook his head.


"Kk... eu.... eu...."


Milena, who had already become a wreck.


Park Seongho's expression changed strangely as he looked at her.


It was because he was reminded of 'former colleague' Miranda, who had given him a taste of heaven and hell even for a moment.


"I... can't do it."


"Is that so."


Thwack.


Taehyun drove Aslan into her heart without hesitation.


Shiver.


Milena trembled for a moment before stopping her movements.


S-rank demon Milena.


Considering she had power that ordinary humans couldn't even dream of.


It was a fleeting death.


"I hope you live righteously in your next life."


Ending a very brief moment of silence.


Taehyun began to gather his scattered belongings.


"Now... what do we do?"


Park Seongho, who was packing his backpack following Taehyun, asked cautiously.


There was no guide, and the potions were all gone.


Certainly, the divine power Taehyun had shown a moment ago was a realm far beyond ordinary people.


But he was also human.


Unless he knew the way out of this labyrinth, he would either starve to death or be hunted down by monsters in a weakened state.


It was the same ending in death anyway.


It was a bleak future just thinking about it.


Unlike the despairing Park Seongho, Taehyun was still rummaging through his backpack with an inscrutable expression.


"Player Kim Taehyun?"


When Park Seongho asked again, Taehyun finally opened his mouth.


"If what Milena said is true. By now, the demons on the Guild Master's side must have revealed their true colors."


"......?"


"Fortunately, I have a good item."


Taehyun took out a scroll from his backpack.


The guild mark that everyone in the industry knew was engraved on the front of the scroll.


"That's... made by Alchemist... a maze-exclusive... tracking scroll?"


A guide class that can explore the maze.


And a super rare scroll created by combining gate skills.


The market price alone was 30 billion won.


"Since I happen to have the scroll I got from Milena. If we do well, we can break even."


Looking at Taehyun grinning.


He couldn't dare.


Ask why he was taking it out now.


The deepest part of the Minotaur's Labyrinth.


A battle was in full swing, right before the end of the maze.


Not a battle between monsters and players.


It was a battle between demons and players.


It was a scene of slaughter, not even a battle, surrounding one man.


"Cough... cough...."


Crack.


"You trash...."


Kwon Kanghyuk smashed the skull of one of the demons and spat out curses.


An A-rank Awakener of the Onsemiro Guild.


He was a subordinate and comrade until just a moment ago.


That kind of guy suddenly turned and killed three guild members.


Kwon Kanghyuk was in the process of dealing with dozens of such traitors.


Meanwhile.


'Are they all dead?'


Not demons, but real comrades.


His own guild members, who weren't few in number, had also lost their lives.


By the S-rank demons right before his eyes.


"Damn it. I thought I had a good eye for people. Lately, it keeps making me question myself."


Kwon Kanghyuk said that and sat on the corpse.


The four demons in front of him didn't seem easy to deal with as they were now.


'They're not guys to be taken lightly.'


Guild members who were outwardly known as A-rank Awakeners.


Even two of them were personally scouted by Kwon Kanghyuk himself.


He didn't notice any signs of them being demons at all.


That meant that demons were deeply rooted within the guild.


He was obsessed with exploration and didn't manage the guild properly.


As soon as the thought reached that point.


"Hoo."


A sigh mixed with self-blame and guilt was released.


"Damn it. I really lived my life in vain. Isn't that right, Vice Guild Master?"


At Kwon Kanghyuk's question, one of the four men.


The man who had been the Vice Guild Master of Onsemiro let out a sinister laugh.


The Vice Guild Master of Onsemiro, an excellent guide, and a long-time comrade.


He was always diligent and made cool-headed judgments from the side.


The sudden change in atmosphere even made him feel eerie.


"Heh heh. As expected of our Guild Master. I expected that these mediocre guys wouldn't be a match."


He had seen Kwon Kanghyuk's battles from the side more than anyone else.


But now there were four S-rank demons, including himself.


No longer was there any fear left on his face, which had revealed its true colors.


"Keuh heh. They say you're the strongest tanker, and even ordinary skills don't leave a scratch on your body."


"Hey, let's send off the superior we once served neatly."


"That's right. We have to find and deal with the rest of the guys too. We have a lot to do."


"Hoo... since when was it?"


Kwon Kanghyuk asked the demons who didn't feel any fear towards him.


S-rank skill 'Beast's Blessing'.


It was known to the world that it could transform into various beasts, but the power that skill possessed was not just that.


And the final secret of the 'Beast's Blessing' that no one had ever seen.


A little more magic power had to be gathered in order to use that power.


'Damn bastards. I'll shatter those heads without exception soon.'


Kwon Kanghyuk gritted his teeth, checking the magic power that was slowly rising.


Fortunately, the four demons seemed to be winning against the already exhausted Kwon Kanghyuk and didn't seem to be in a hurry.


"Since when."


"From the beginning, of course."


"If you hadn't been making a fuss about conquering this place. We wouldn't have gone this far."


"Please understand our hearts as we deal with a comrade directly."


"Keuh heh... hahahaha...."


Kwon Kanghyuk, who had been slightly agitated by the demons' excuses, eventually burst out laughing.


"Hmm?"


"Have you given up?"


"We should finish it off soon."


The demons surrounded Kwon Kanghyuk, who was still not standing up.


Kwon Kanghyuk watched the scene and spat out the ear he had been chewing on.


It was the ear of one of the demons who had stabbed him with a knife a moment ago.


"Tuh. You guys are such bullsh*tters. What? S-rank demon? What about it?"


"......"


"......"


"......"


"......"


Kwon Kanghyuk, rising to his feet and emitting fighting spirit.


The four demons lost their words for a moment at the sight.


Kwon Kanghyuk was an S-rank high-level player.


And they were two S-rank mid-level, one upper-mid level, and one high-level.


Even if Kwon Kanghyuk borrowed the power of the dragon he had shown in his duel with Taehyun, it was an unbridgeable gap.


"Kwon Kanghyuk. You also have a chance. If you join us...."


"Hey. Shut up and come at me. I'll blow your heads off."


"......"


"Crazy bastard. You really want to die."


"The Guild Master of Onsemiro will be replaced as of today."


The four demons used their respective skills.


"You guys are full of sh*t. You little brats."


Kwon Kanghyuk also activated the skill he had been preparing.


And.


Crack!!


Kwon Kanghyuk, who had turned into something black, snatched one of the demons with tremendous speed.


The demons' eyes widened as they confirmed the sight.


"Th-That's...!!"


"Crazy...!!"


"A dragon?!!"


An S-rank monster called a dragon in the world.


No, it was a little different.


A giant body of 5 meters.


But the wings were not visible.


The current appearance was closer to a degenerate dragon.


Crack. Crack.


Even if it was degenerate, it was a dragon.


It was enough to overwhelm the demons.


"Do you understand the situation now?"


Kwon Kanghyuk ignored the screams of the demon he was chewing on and busily moved his sharply grown teeth.


"Kkua... save...!!"


Crack!!


As if there was no need to listen anymore.


When Kwon Kanghyuk clenched his teeth with force, one of the demons died on the spot.


Drip.


The blood of the S-rank demon, which had already become a lump of meat, flowed down his neck.


"I, I can't speak...."


"A dragon... there was no such thing...."


"Everyone, run away!!!"


In the midst of the demons' cries.


Kwon Kanghyuk moved his giant body to snatch his second target.


"Haa... haa... sh*t...."


Thud.


Kwon Kanghyuk knelt down, spitting out curses.


It was the second time in a week that he had knelt down.


The difference from before was that there was no more energy left in Kwon Kanghyuk's body.


'Damn it. I don't even have the strength to drink a potion.'


He could already tell that all the stats were at the bottom without looking at the status window.


It was the price of using a technique that he was not yet familiar with.


He had used all of his magic power.


Poisoning. Paralysis. Bleeding, etc.


The curse skills that those guys had used were spreading through his body belatedly.


Probably the rebound that would come in less than 5 minutes.


At that time, no matter how much of a Kwon Kanghyuk he was, he would have to pay the price.


'Damn it... is this how the conquest fails?'


Dozens of demons, including four S-ranks.


Kwon Kanghyuk had dealt with them single-handedly.


But it seemed impossible to explore any further.


'Kim Taehyun, that guy... Heh heh... I don't need to worry. Not some arrogant guy like that.'


His vision had lost focus long ago.


He didn't even have the strength to laugh and was wriggling his body.


"You're in quite the sorry state."


It was a familiar voice.


For a moment, he heard the sound of something being rummaged through nearby.


The owner of the voice approached Kwon Kanghyuk.


"What have you torn it to pieces like this? Fortunately, one sheet is safe."


Tear.


Kwon Kanghyuk's body was enveloped in white light and began to recover.


'This is... a scroll?'


A moment later, someone opened Kwon Kanghyuk's mouth and poured in a healing potion.


Kwon Kanghyuk's shriveled body gradually regained its energy.


It didn't even take a minute for his eyesight to return.


And the first thing he saw was.


"You..."


"Thank you is enough. I'd be in trouble if the party leader dies."


It was Taehyun looking down at him with a bitter smile.


70


It was an injury that would have killed an ordinary player several times over.


But with the healing scrolls and potions he used, Kwon Kang-hyuk didn't need much time to recover.


And then.


Kwon Kang-hyuk's fully recovered hand grabbed Tae-hyun by the collar.


"You... did you know this would happen?"


Kwon Kang-hyuk asked in a murderous voice, recalling the subtle things Tae-hyun had said before.


"It was just a hunch."


Kwon Kang-hyuk's hand, which was grabbing his collar, trembled at Tae-hyun's nonchalant response.


Dozens of his companions, the elite of the Onsaemiro Guild, with whom he had spent many years, had lost their lives.


Depending on his answer, he could not forgive Tae-hyun, even if he was his savior.


"Why didn't you tell me in advance?"


"Do you think it would have made a difference if I had told you?"


"What? How can you say that...!!"


"You know it wouldn't have. At least, the Guild Master I know wouldn't suspect his comrades without any concrete evidence."


"......!!"


Kwon Kang-hyuk was speechless at Tae-hyun's words.


His most trusted vice-guild leader was actually a Maine.


Would he have paid attention if Tae-hyun had told him in advance?


No.


'Suspecting a comrade is the same as betraying them. That's what I used to say.'


Slowly.


The hand that had been grabbing his collar fell weakly.


"...I'm sorry."


"You don't need to apologize to me."


Tae-hyun bowed lightly after saying that.


He knew how painful it was to be betrayed by a trusted comrade.


As a fellow player, he showed the least amount of courtesy.


'But it's difficult if you cross the line.'


I am a person who has regressed from the future to the past.


How many people would believe that if I said it?


No, how many people would try to use Tae-hyun if they knew this fact right now?


Without knowing it.


'The great powers with national-level players won't stand still.'


Currently, Tae-hyun's power is about the upper level of an S-rank player, excluding Devour.


If he uses Devour, he is confident that he will not lose to a national-level player...


'That's only in a one-on-one situation.'


If they were determined to target him, Tae-hyun would definitely have his limits right now.


In the worst case, a war between countries could break out.


After thinking about these hypotheses.


Tae-hyun had no intention of changing the past by overdoing it.


It was already something that had happened, and something that would happen.


'If I intervene to save everyone, I don't know how the future will change.'


The rotation of a small gear eventually moves a large gear.


That's why he had no regrets about the method he had chosen.


It's just that he would have to endure the bitterness that arises in the process.


"Damn it!!!"


The ground caved in from Kwon Kang-hyuk's punch.


"Damn Maine bastards."


Kwon Kang-hyuk's fist, shaking with anger, stopped only after being slammed down dozens more times.


The previous life that Tae-hyun knew.


The Maines who had infiltrated to prevent the dungeon raid there were two S-rank and about forty A to B-rank.


Thanks to that, the number of survivors, excluding the first place they were stationed, was twenty, including Kwon Kang-hyuk.


Even that number had been reduced to five by the time the dungeon raid was over.


'But this time, there were five S-ranks.'


Some might say it's a minor difference, but the difference between two and five S-ranks is like heaven and earth.


You could tell just by the fact that Kwon Kang-hyuk was the only one of the twenty survivors who should have been there.


'Was it changed because of me?'


The ruler of the Minotaur Labyrinth ahead.


It would be enough for Tae-hyun to face 'them' in place of Kwon Kang-hyuk's guild members, but.


'There's no guarantee that the monsters beyond that won't change either.'


Having a lot of worries doesn't bring wisdom.


Since the party leader has the final say anyway.


Tae-hyun passed the ball of choice to Kwon Kang-hyuk.


"How are you going to attack?"


At the question, Kwon Kang-hyuk looked around.


The 57 Onsaemiro guild members who had fallen here in the Minotaur Labyrinth.


If they went back like this, their spirits would never be able to escape from this place.


His gaze turned to the huge door in front of him.


The end of the labyrinth and the end.


He had no intention of backing down after coming this far.


"I'll finish the raid. Of course, I don't intend to force you to."


Kwon Kang-hyuk said, looking at Tae-hyun and Park Sung-ho.


The party's balance was already broken.


He didn't want to put the lives of the remaining survivors in danger.


But.


"If that's Guild Master's decision, I'll help too."


Even if it wasn't Kwon Kang-hyuk, Tae-hyun would have attacked alone anyway.


At Tae-hyun's answer, which didn't hesitate at all.


"Thank you."


Kwon Kang-hyuk smiled as if he had relieved his worries.


Name: Kim Tae-hyun


Age: 19


Rank: B


Strength: 122 Stamina: 141 Speed: 105 Magic: 200 Charm: 130


Fatigue: 15%


Remaining Magic: 200/200


[Skills]


Devour (B) - Can devour a desired target. Yokai power: 40


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


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


Paralysis (B) - Restricts the target's body. Yokai power: 20


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


King Knight's Aura (B) - Overwhelms the opponent with aura by designating them. Yokai power: 35


Chains of Restraint (B) - Restrains the opponent by designating them. Skill tracking and cancellation are possible. Yokai power: 27


Queen's Man (B) - Summons the succubus queen Rozaria. Yokai power: 200


Complete Hypnosis (B) - Hypnotizes the opponent by designating them. Yokai power: 40


'I'm still very lacking in speed.'


Tae-hyun sighed slightly at the speed stat that wasn't rising as well as he had expected.


Recently, he had often been fighting in close combat with S-rank opponents.


Every time, instead of overwhelming them, he was being pushed back.


He was managing to hold on by combining other skills appropriately.


But he couldn't keep taking these risks forever.


'I need to recover my speed stat before participating in the friendly match.'


It was even lower than the charm stat that had recently appeared, and he realized how unbalanced his current stats were.


"What are you looking at so intently?"


Kwon Kang-hyuk, who had finished preparing for the raid, approached and asked.


"You can never check the status window too many times. More than that, have you cleared your mind?"


Tae-hyun asked, looking at the crude pile of stones that had been created around him.


It was a tomb for the Onsaemiro guild members that the three of them had created a little while ago.


This would prevent the monsters from desecrating the bodies for a while.


"Coming into the Abyss means you've risked your life. I don't intend to stay here for long either."


Even if the labyrinth is cleared, a break doesn't occur like in a dungeon.


So it would be possible to bring a follow-up team later to move the bodies.


"That's a relief. I was worried that Guild Master might have a mental breakdown."


"To be lectured by a kid... Tch."


He had already been defeated and helped by Tae-hyun twice.


Kwon Kang-hyuk realized that he was no longer in a position to tease Tae-hyun as a kid.


"Kim Tae-hyun. You said the reason you participated in this raid was because of your contribution points, right?"


"Yes."


Even though there was another reason.


Tae-hyun answered obediently, hiding his true feelings.


"Your current rank is 15th... If this raid is successful, it's certain that you'll rise to 5th place."


"I suppose so."


Minotaur Labyrinth, which has claimed countless lives for 30 years.


If he raided this place, he would have more than enough contribution points left over.


"But I can't just pay you back for saving my life with something like that."


"......?"


"I promise. If we make it out of here alive, I'll treat you as Onsaemiro's VVIP."


VVIP of the four major guilds.


Tae-hyun was already a SVIP, which was almost the same as a VVIP, at Alchemist.


He knew better than anyone about the benefits that that status provided.


Of course, there was the prerequisite that they would clear the labyrinth and survive.


"That's quite the sweet deal."


It didn't matter to Tae-hyun.


"Um... then is it really okay for me to be here?"


Park Sung-ho swallowed hard and asked.


Two S-rank players representing Shinhan Korea.


Was it because he was thinking about being with them at the crossroads of the labyrinth raid?


His voice trembled without him even realizing it.


"Yeah. Unless we know what's inside, we need to leave a minimum of troops outside. I'm counting on you."


Kwon Kang-hyuk said, patting Park Sung-ho on the shoulder.


"Let's go."


"Yeah. Let's end this damn labyrinth."


Leaving Park Sung-ho, who was trembling with intense emotion, behind.


Tae-hyun and Kwon Kang-hyuk entered the end of the labyrinth.


"What the hell."


Kwon Kang-hyuk spat out curses as he confirmed the opponent in front of him.


"Are you scared?"


"You sure know how to say cocky things. I'm just barely..."


"I'm scared, though."


Kwon Kang-hyuk was dumbfounded by Tae-hyun's honest comment.


But Tae-hyun's thoughts hadn't changed.


That's because the opponents were three monsters that were 5 meters tall.


They were 'Tau Kings' who had the strength of an upper-level S-rank player.


And behind them was a monster that was 7 meters tall, being protected by them.


Minotaur Queen.


A monster that is evaluated as a top-tier S-rank and whose physical strength is second to none to a Bone Dragon.


The Minotaur Queen was looking down at Tae-hyun and Kwon Kang-hyuk with two huge battle axes in both hands.


'It's different from my memory.'


In his past life, there were definitely only three Tau Kings here.


Even that was a difficult battle, so Kwon Kang-hyuk suffered permanent damage and had the aftereffects of the injury.


'It's famous that Kwon Kang-hyuk proposed after receiving help from the saint.'


Tae-hyun, who knew Kwon Kang-hyuk's future, clicked his tongue and opened his mouth.


"I'll lure them. Do you have any hidden beasts that can handle those guys?"


"I do have hidden power. But that's only enough to deal with the Tau Kings. It's impossible to deal with the guy behind them."


Kwon Kang-hyuk is also a top-tier ranker.


Instead of having vain hope, he readily admitted the gap between him and his opponent.


He was saying that he couldn't deal with the Minotaur Queen with his current skills.


"That's a relief. I also have a hidden card."


"Heh heh... Kim Tae-hyun, you're really an unknowable guy."


"You're just as good, Guild Master."


With those words, the two men raised their magic power.


They had begun the magic power release that only the top S-rankers could use.


"Okay. I can only use this power for about 5 minutes. If I go over that, I'll collapse like before."


"5 minutes... that's cutting it close."


"Then. Let's see each other alive."


Kwon Kang-hyuk used the skill 'Beast's Blessing'.


Kukung. Kukung. Kukung.


'Crazy. Is he even imitating a dragon now?'


The 'Tau Kings' rushed at Kwon Kang-hyuk, who had transformed into a 5-meter tall being.


That's because the aura that Kwon Kang-hyuk was emitting was so unusual that they ignored Tae-hyun next to him.


"Well, shall we play together?"


Tae-hyun reached out to the 'Minotaur Queen' who was left alone.


Since Kwon Kang-hyuk would be too busy dealing with the three 'Tau Kings' anyway.


'I'll go wild.'


Ting.


[Unique skill Devour (B) is used. The target is confirmed according to the user's perception.]


Hwaaa.


A dark red light emanated from Tae-hyun's body.


[You're an interesting human.]


He heard the monster's language in his head.


"Well, I'm not even surprised anymore."


Tae-hyun didn't care and raised the power of Devour.

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