The Protagonists Are Murdered By Me Chapter 7: 36-40, a 13 tzameti fanfic

5000 Star Force if I defeat the Rake Barox within five minutes?'

A mysterious proposal by a Constellation he had never seen before.

Arash briefly thought about it, and soon grinned.

Not a problem.

In the first place, within 10 minutes was already possible..

Although a bit riskier, within 5 minutes is also definitely possible.

He might suffer some minor injuries in the process, but there was no such thing as a free lunch when it came to Star Force.

Besides, isn't it possible that other Constellations might find it interesting and sponsor him if he suddenly clears a higher difficulty mission?

'I'll have to resort to a cheat.'

This world, or game, is full of bugs and easter eggs.

When he was developing the game, he couldn't fix it all because he wasn't able to.

However, now, it has all become the driving force behind his growth.

Arash slowly walked up to the Barox.

'If I fight it normally, it would take at least 9 minutes. However, if I use the cross pattern, I can defeat it in 4 minutes.'

'The yellow center foothold. If I step on that, exactly 2 seconds later, a cross shaped fire column will shoot out on both sides of the walls.'

Slowly drawing his long sword, Arash ignited it.

[Fisherman Chasing Stars: Using fire against a fire opponent?]

[Crackion Noise: What is he thinking?]

[Poisonous Plant In Greenhouse: Ah.]

The chat window was quickly flooded with questions.

However, Arash knew.

The Barox is impervious to normal attacks, but weak against fire.

That's why the cross shaped fire column can damage it.

"Heup!"

Leaning forward and running towards the Barox, Arash swung his fire imbued long sword.

Fire against fire!

It seemed like a losing battle, but the moment the attacks collided.

Woosh!

The Barox's body was engulfed in the flames.

[Tip Of An Iceberg: Fire monsters can be burnt?]

[Poisonous Plant In Greenhouse: That's unusual for a fire monster to be burnt. I knew Arash was up to something!]

[Lost Snail: I just wanted him to be burned to death. What a shame.]

[Looking At Ants Through Magnifying Glass: His insight is very good!]

Not only did Arash overwhelm the Barox, he was also winning over the Constellations.

Although Arash is weaker than the Barox, its pattern was already seen through by him.

When it would use its fire attacks, when it would swing its tail in a 5 meter radius, and when it would leap three times before pouncing.

As well as its other patterns.

Arash knew it all.

Woosh!

Soon, the surrounding four walls near the Barox lit up.

'It's time.'

Currently, the Barox's health has been cut by about 30% and three minutes have passed.

Despite efficiently attacking it and reading its pattern, it was quickly approaching 5 minutes.

Will Arash fail for the first time?

The Constellations began to flood the chat window again, thrilled at the thought, but they will have to be disappointed.

Heup!

Arash stepped on the yellow platform at the center of the area, counted exactly two seconds, and then jumped backwards.

Kung!

Barox, who lept forward to try and catch Arash, was now at the center of the platform.

Woosh…!!

Four fire columns shot out from the walls.

Then, a loud shriek strong enough to damage one's eardrums shook the whole area, hitting Arash in the process.

However, he was fine because of his strengthened body.

'Now!'

There's no 'hold' on the fire columns, so he had to stop the Barox from escaping by himself.

He quickly rushed towards the Barox and continued his attacks, so that it couldn't escape.

In the end, the Barox couldn't do anything and quickly lost its remaining HP.

As such, 1 minute and 30 seconds passed.

Or, 4 minutes and 40 seconds in total.

{ 9th Stage – The ancient ruins of Marti's final boss have been defeated! }

{ Solo Clear! Additional reward for this amazing achievement. }

{ Star Force gained. }

{ Shortest clear time! Additional reward… }

Countless system messages appeared.

[White Ferryboat Statue: So crazy!]

[Man Getting Up From His Feet: I'd never thought you could use a trap like that. Amazing.]

[Man Walking On The Edge: He judged all that in a minute? No way.]

The Constellation's excitement also brought forth a considerable amount of Star Force sponsorship.

[Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day sponsors 5000 Star Force.]

[Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day: I didn't expect you to clear it, but that was amazing. Let's have fun again next time.]

Looking at the reactions, Arash realized.

'…Isn't this pretty good?'

Before, he had only thought of steadily moving forward.

However, just now he realized that with just a little bit of effort and using his 'secrets,' it's possible to elicit a positive reaction from the Constellations.

Crisis.

Impossible challenges.

And his self confidence in accomplishing them.

Arash's heart was pounding.

He didn't know it would be this exciting to be in the spotlight of all the Constellations.

'This is an opportunity.'

Arash, with his arms wide open, spoke.

"Constellation Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day, of course! Thank you very much for the mission! It was a little difficult, but I had fun too. Let's do it again another time."

In a way, it was asking for more missions.

As if hearing his request, missions began to flood in from the Constellations.

The corner of Arash's mouth slowly curled up.

After carrying out missions for the past two months, Arash has reached the 10th stage.

The 10th stage is three times larger than any of the other worlds on average.

There are also many more dungeons, all of which are being monopolized by the lone Arash.

The number of Constellations watching has also increased exponentially.

[A Thousand Bird Crossing The Line sponsors 500 Star Force.]

[A Thousand Bird Crossing The Line: I will add 3000 Star Force if you slap the boss five times.]

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[Absolute Position sponsors 2000 Star Force.]

[Absolute Position: I will add 5000 Star Force if you only move diagonally while fighting the boss.]

[Submerged Hourglass sponsors 3000 Star Force.]

[Submerged Hourglass: I will add 7000 Star Force if you can defeat the boss without your armor.]

The missions varied and the difficulty gradually rose exponentially as well.

Sometimes the missions became too dangerous for Arash, but he had no choice but to accept them.

This is because a 'tradition' was established after the first mission was requested by a Constellation, so the others followed suit with a prepayment before giving a mission.

'Damn it…This mission is a bit much.'

'If I had a colleague…'

Arash soon shook his head at the thought.

He doesn't intend to share his one wish with anyone else.

Only by monopolizing the information can he increase his chance of getting his wish.

In the first place, if Arash was selfless, he would have shared the information concerning Arash's world with the other hundreds of thousands of challengers to increase everyone's survival rate.

However, his wish was to one day clear all the stages and become a Constellation.

He had no time to care about other humans and only wanted to achieve his wish as quickly as possible.

'I'm glad I could skip some of the mission.'

The really ridiculous ones like 'just die,' or 'jump into that lava with your naked body.'

When he received such missions, other Constellations would tell the requester to cancel it because it would not be fun.

However, the missions to hunt the boss or certain dungeon had to be carried out unconditionally because he received payment in advance.

Fortunately, everything has gone smoothly.

He has cleared every dungeon thus far, and his level has risen quite high thanks to the huge sum of Star Force.

And, he can easily clear the 10th to 12th stage right now.

But he was waiting for Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day to give another mission before clearing the 10th stage final gateway.

Because this Constellation created the novel idea of giving missions, which became popular among the other Constellations.

So why shouldn't he postpone clearing the stage if he's getting such a generous amount of Star Force?

Even though this Constellation never sponsored in advance, Arash has no intention of rejecting any of its missions.

[Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day sponsors 3000 Star Force.]

This Constellation would show up every other day or every three days.

Arash, as if pleased, with a wide grin, spoke.

"You're here! Are you giving me another mission this time?"

[Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day: No. I just wanted to sponsor.]

"Is that so?"

[Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day: Yes. I'm bored of the 10th Stage now. Let's move to the next stage. I'm curious how it's going to be.]

"…!"

Seeing the message he had hoped, Arash smiled.

He's been at the 10th stage for two months already.

It was good to have earned so much Star Force to the point where he has surpassed other challengers decisively, but in the end, his goal is to clear the final stage.

It's time to continue climbing.

Most of the other Constellations also agreed that the 10th stage has become boring.

"Alright, Constellations, I'll head to the 10th stage final gateway!"

The preparation process was quick.

He knew every detail of the 10th stage, and his level is quite high, so there is no danger.

Actually, he's worried that the final gateway would be boring because it'll be too easy.

'It would be good if I receive a mission at the final gateway.'

With such complacent thoughts, Arash arrived at the 10th stage final gateway.

{ Beepbeep! Another challenger is already challenging the final gateway. }

{ Please come back tomorrow! }

Then.

{ First time clear of the 10th stage final gateway! }

{ Challengers: Sajun, Jaesul, Gyulu, and Mayva. }

{ The 11th stage has opened. }

In front of Arash were four familiar figures who somehow managed to pass the final gateway before him.

They were breathing heavily with wounds all over their bodies while shedding tears and hugging one another.

Seeing them, Arash had many questions.

'When?'

'Already?'

'So soon?'

'What's their levels?'

All sorts of questions were brewing inside his head, but the reality is in front of him.

'Four challengers have successfully cleared the 10th stage before me.'

He felt a slight uneasiness.

However, he stayed here for two months.

It was enough time for other challengers to get here.

Dumbfounded and trying to grasp the situation, a message appeared in the channel without giving him a chance.

[Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day: Huh…So the ones over there are first now?]

[Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day: Ah? They just went up to the 11th stage, right? I'm going to go over there and give them a mission.]

Arash is certain he's the best.

His level, blessing, skills, proficiency, etc…are the highest by a big margin.

However…

If he starts falling behind in stage, what's the use of all that in the end?

'No, no…!'

Seeing Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day's message, the other Constellations also began to waver.

They, who only seek pleasure, also wondered what was happening in the 11th stage right now.

And they were curious what mission Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day would give.

'Once a stage is cleared, other challengers must wait a day.'

In other words, the Constellations currently watching his channel could be taken away by those four challengers within a day.

He can't let that happen.

'This might be a little dangerous, but…'

Arash looked up and widened his eyes.

No Constellations have left his channel yet.

Now is his last chance to retain them.

"Constellations, please wait. Do you want to see the most interesting broadcast?"

All the Constellations said yes.

Arash smiled widely, and with a confident look, spoke.

"Then, watch me use the 'elevator system!'"

[Red Melody Destiny: What? Elevator? Are you serious?]𝕟𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕝𝕦𝕤𝕓.𝕔𝕠𝗆

[Masonry Coming Down A Ladder: Whoa….! Something new again?]

[Call Me Three Times Before I Pick Up: That sounds interesting! I've never seen a challenger use the elevator system!]

The reactions from the Constellations became heated again.

Rightfully so.

Elevator system.

The system, which was to go up two stages in a single challenge, is considered virtually impossible to accomplish because of its 'terrible difficulty.'

For example, if you use the elevator system at the 10th stage to go up two stages, the difficulty will be twice as hard since it's the combination of the 10th and 11th stage.

And instead of extra rewards, you will only be able to climb faster than others…

So who would use such a method?

However.

It's possible for the current Arash.

Due to staying on the 10th stage for a long time, he raised his level and equipment high enough to be able to challenge the 12th and 13th stage.

{ Using elevator system. }

{ Do you wish to climb two stages at once? }

"Yes!"

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{ Elevator system activated. }

{ Head to the final gateway. }

Feeling the change in vision, Arash with a firm expression, grasped his long sword.

The real battle starts now.

{ Successfully cleared the 10th and 11th stage using the elevator system. }

Using the elevator system was much simpler and more enjoyable than Arash had thought.

In the eyes of others he was making use of his quick wit.

He was showing a combination of various skills, items, and the unusual idea of using the elevator system that has never been done before.

Despite having to face two bosses at once and defeating them seemed like an impossible feat, Arash never backed down.

He did not panic even after meteorites began falling from the sky.

It was indeed a flawless performance and result.

After defeating all the monsters and bosses, he gritted his teeth, clenched his fists, and took a deep breath.

Then, he shouted.

"Aaaahhhh!!"

Trembling with excitement, he thought to himself that this couldn't have gone any better.

{ Elevator a success! 12th stage open. }

{ Additional reward for being the first challenger to successfully use the elevator system! }

With the countless achievements came a huge amount of Star Force.

But more than that, he was excited by the positive reactions from the Constellations.

[Eternal Prisoner sponsors 500 Star Force.]

[Cow Running Like A Horse: Crazy, really crazy!]

[One's Own Burning Heart sponsors 2000 Star Force.]

[A Thousand Year Old Ginseng: I had goosebumps watching! What a great warrior!]

[Fallen Moon On The Ground sponsors 1500 Star Force.]

Arash was speechless looking at all the messages pouring in.

He trembled.

'Ah…Yes. This is it.'

He felt alive receiving the attention of the Constellations.

Right, a little setback could be overcome like this.

He suddenly realized.

'I'm the protagonist.'

The secret even the Constellations don't know.

Knowing everything about this world.

A unique existence.

{ Head to the 12th stage, Starry Subway }

{ Enter the safe zone to recover from all the damage and fatigue. }

After coming to his senses, he arrived at the 12th stage.

It was a place that had a beautiful starry night sky.

And a subway falling across it.

Once again, he will play an active role here.

That was the plan…

[Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day: That was fun. Show me again.]

[Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day sponsors 50000 Star Force.]

'…Huh?'

50000?

He wondered if he had seen it wrong, but he didn't.

Really, an enormous sum of 50000 Star Force was given to him.

No matter what a Constellation is, Star Force is a kind of energy that gives them their influence, so they never gave out a lot.

'What the hell…?'

The happiness only lasted for a moment before he felt something was wrong.

'Show you again? What?'

Feeling a sudden surge of anxiety coming from his chest, he tried to speak, but another message appeared before he could.

[Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day: I sent you a deposit for a mission. Let's try 3 stages this time. 200000 Star Force if you succeed. Deal?]

Immediately.

The chat exploded.

Other Constellations became excited and started to sponsor.

[Man With Gold Colored Electricity sponsors 5000 Star Force.]

[Man With Gold Colored Electricity: I'll make a deposit too! 10000 if you succeed!]

[Woman With Sharp Fingers sponsors 3000 Star Force.]

[Woman With Sharp Fingers: 5000 if you succeed. Deal?]

[Fighter Who Uses His Stomach sponsors 7000 Star Force.]

[Fighter Who Uses His Stomach: My heart is burning! Nothing is more exciting than an impossible challenge!]

[Man Who Died Standing Still sponsors 2500 Star Force.]

An endless amount of Star Force.

The Constellations were all hoping.

They want to feel that excitement again.

Going for an impossible challenge.

But…

'I'm a dead man.'

If he accepts this mission, he'll undoubtedly die.

There is no way the Constellations aren't aware of this fact.

Nevertheless, they are hoping Arash will take the challenge.

"T-this…"

[Starry Eyes sponsors 2000 Star Force.]

"Impossible…"

[Twinkling Jewel In The Dark sponsors 4000 Star Force.]

Arash knew the reason.

'Because it's entertaining.'

Only now did Arash realize.

The Constellations don't like him.

He was only their 'toy.'

And it was fun to watch him.

That's why they are still in his channel.

Affection?

It's probably less than watching a hamster running on a wheel.

Watching the lower beings struggle as they throw sunflower seeds here and there when they're in the mood.

Just that level of value.

If their hamster gets sick and dies, it'll hurt, but…

They can get another hamster.

'I'm…nothing…'

Arash's hands trembled.

It's because the eyes of the Constellations were putting pressure on him.

[Light Rain Falling Through A Crevice Of A Rock looks at you with interest.]

[Lost Snail looks at you with interest.]

[Hard To Catch Libra looks at you with interest.]

[White Wolf Crying Victory looks at you with interest.]

[Man Walking On The Edge looks at you with interest.]

Dead.

Definitely dead.

[Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day: You don't want to?]

But knowing this fact.

"…The mission, I will accept it."

He had no choice but to accept it.

Regressors, reincarnators, possessors, travelers, and predestined.

Every protagonist is different and so are their 'protagonist corrections.'

For example, Gilitender and Lee Yeonjun, the protagonists hunted by Seodam, were the ordinary 'growth type' and did not fall in any of the categories above.

But just because they have no cheats from regression or reincarnation, does it make them any worse?

Not really.

This is because when a protagonist faces a crisis, there would be a tremendous amount of correction in the world's blessing towards them.

It's the sort of correction where an appropriate skill for the situation will appear out of thin air or some 'luck' happens.

However, there is no correction for protagonists who are regressors or possessors.

Because their existence itself is already a great deal of 'correction.'

Regressor Fiolen who had future knowledge.

Possessor Ella Almus who had great achievements in magic.

The world's blessing didn't randomly move when the two were in a crisis.

In the case of regression, what will happen in the future will happen a little faster, and in the case of possession, they will be trusted by the people around them a little easier.

However, in the end, the world's blessing will not correct the crisis itself.

The same was true for Arash.

Arash, the protagonist who has all the secrets of this world due to his unique skill The Game I Made Became Reality (URS) is the 'protagonist correction' itself.

Knowing everything about this world there shouldn't have been a chance for him to die.

The protagonist, who was almost invincible, is about to be driven to his death by a temporary Constellation that could interfere with the protagonist's correction.

[Tip Of An Iceberg leaves the channel in great disappointment.]

[Man Walking On The Edge leaves the channel clicking his tongue.]

[A Thousand Bird Crossing The Line leaves the channel shaking their heads.]

The bosses and monster waves from the 12th, 13th, and 14th stage appeared all at once.

Stuck in an impossible situation, Arash struggled and struggled, making use of everything he had.

However, there was no 'surprise.'

It was just…

A hamster struggling to survive.

He wanted to become like them.

So he panhandled for their attention.

But the Constellations, who wanted a surprise, turned their backs in disappointment.

Only the Constellations who hoped for Arash to die are left, mocking him.

[A Shower Of Candles In The Night: Yes, just run like that!]

[Woman Walking At Night: That's very unsightly.]

[White Ferryboat Statue: How unsightly can you get?]

[Finger Pointing To The Moon: Your pride will cost you your life in the end.]

In the eyes of the wicked Constellations there was not an ounce of kindness.

The world that Arash had created.

He met his end just like that.

[You've successfully hunted a Level 89 protagonist.]

[Your Level has risen by 51.]

[890 days of lifespan will be rewarded.]

[Remaining Lifespan: 3427 Days, 9 Hours, 31 Minutes.]

The Constellations quickly left Arash's channel after his death.

His death was only so.

A lonely death that no one will give a second look.

Watching the Constellations, Seodam burst out laughing.

The Constellations are not bad by any means.

By human standards, they may appear evil, but that's just their natural design.

However, somehow, as a human being, I felt irritated.

[Mission completed.]

[Would you like to return to your original world?]

"No."

I still have something to do.

[Cat Walking On Fire looks at you with interest.]

[Paper Plane Flying In The Wind looks at you with interest.]

[Fisherman Chasing Stars looks at you with interest.]

[Poisonous Plant In Greenhouse looks at you with interest.]

"Uh, huh?"

A full day had passed since the 11th stage was cleared.

The party of four widened their eyes when they saw dozens of Constellations suddenly joining their channel.

"This…What's going on?"

The last few months there was only one Constellation in their channel.

So it came as a surprise to them when the number increased exponentially.

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[Absolute Position: Do you do missions here?]

[Red Acidic Elaphe: Let's first start with a sponsorship.]

[Fierce Goat Wailing In The Night: So this is the 11th stage. Well, it looks quite spectacular.]

Some Constellations left shortly after while the ones who stayed were those who wanted to see them suffer or just wanted entertainment.

"Oh my! W-what should we do here?"

Gyulu, with a quivering voice, spoke to Jaesul, their leader.

No matter how many times they looked, there were more than 10 Constellations in their channel.

A leader can only do so much.

"I don't know…should we say hello?"

"Yeah. That sounds good."

The four, who were embarrassed, tried to greet the Constellations as calmly as possible.

But, immediately there was an outcry about 'mission' or something.

'The hell, what mission?'

When they all had such a thought.

[Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day looks at you with interest.]

Their patron and benefactor entered the channel.

The only Constellation to have nurtured them over the last three months.

As soon as they tried to greet this Constellation with bright smiles on their faces, a voice was heard.

[Now, listen carefully.]

"Huh?"

It was a personal message that Constellations could send to their avatar.

There wasn't a need to use it before because there was only one Constellation in the channel, but now it had to be used.

[I'm going to sponsor you guys and request a mission.]

'Yes…'

[Refuse it.]

'What?'

They couldn't understand it.

However, has a bad thing ever happened while listening to this Constellation?

Never.

Therefore, the four nodded their heads.

[Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day sponsors 1000 Star Force.]

This was the last amount of Star Force Yoo Seodam had.

He had used up almost all of it after sponsoring 50000 the other day.

The 200000 Star Force offered as a reward was of course, a lie.

Seodam was bluffing with the Star Force he had collected at the last minute.

[Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day: Let's do a mission. 10000 Star Force if you succeed.]

"Ah, okay!"

Seeing Yoo Seodam's message, the Constellations looked on with interest.

A Constellation that had sponsored 50000 Star Force but still hasn't lost his name, as well as being the creator of the mission system.

[Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day: … … … ….]

The Constellations shook their heads when they saw Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day slowly explaining the mission.

As expected, it's a fairly plausible yet extremely difficult mission.

Although it's not something new, the Constellations were excited to see new challengers undertake a mission.

"I'm sorry. We think the mission is too difficult. We refuse. But we thank you for the sponsored Star Force."

Said Jaesul, rejecting the mission.

Every Constellation in the channel became dumbfounded.

A human rejecting a Constellation's mission?

They're not worthy.

As soon as the Constellations heard the rejection and was about to put pressure on the challenger…

[Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day: Well, it can't be helped.]

[Rice Cake and Dumpling Soup on New Year's Day: I'm a Constellation engraved in the sky, so I can't be petty over such trivial things. I'll cancel the mission. Star Force is meant to be shared.]

Seodam was the first to start the 'mission deposit' rule.

Because of this, Arash was put under immense pressure and was not able to reject the mission.

However, since Seodam made the rules, it's also possible to create new ones such as 'not getting upset at the little humans over them rejecting a mission.'

Thus, if a Constellation sponsors a mission and a challenger refuses, the Constellation has to be the 'bigger person.'

But, there were Constellations who didn't buy into this new rule and left the channel.

In the end, they would be harmful to the four one day anyways, so it's good that they left now.

If a Constellation gets mad after having their mission refused, they'll be criticized by the other Constellations for not understanding the rule.

Now, challengers don't have to take difficult missions with no way out, and it's impossible to kill a challenger through a mission like what Seodam had done.

"Uh, um…Thank you, we appreciate it!"

Not knowing what the act just now meant, the four still bowed their heads to Seodam.

Seodam didn't bother to explain either.

He was just doing what he wanted to.

Soon after, when the four were about to enter a dungeon, the Constellations began to carefully offer them missions.

"I don't think that mission is possible. But if you give us a more fun mission, we'll try it!"

"Aha. Thank you for the mission! We'll try it!"

The four are now leading in viewers among all the challengers.

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When they entered the dungeon entrance, they suddenly stared blankly into the air.

'Mister Constellation?'

[What.]

'Aren't you going to help us this time?'

[…]

The last three months Seodam had been sponsoring Arash Star Force just so he can take away the stages' secrets and help the four with that information.

[I can't help you anymore.]

'That…you're leaving?'

[Yes. I'm a company spy and the company that I infiltrated is now bankrupt.]

'…?'

The four didn't understand, but still nodded.

Although Seodam had helped a lot, they weren't fools who couldn't do anything by themselves.

After all, they were powerful enough to compete with the protagonist Arash.

'Let's challenge it by ourselves!'

Since then, the four continued to explore the dungeon and carried out missions, which resulted in the channel's growth and success.

At night when the broadcast ended and all the Constellations had left the channel.

Only then did the four go looking for Seodam.

"Mister Constellation? Are you there?"

[Why are you looking for me again?]

"How were we today?"

It was a strange question.

[Well, you were good.]

That one sentence made them feel better, as they giggled amongst themselves.

Looking at them, Seodam thought it was time to go back.

"Well, mister Constellation. By any chance…Are you with us now?"

[Huh? For now, yes.]

"If you don't mind us asking, may we ask where you are?"

[Just in front of you.]

Then, even though the four didn't prepare beforehand, they knelt down and bowed at the same time towards where Seodam was floating.

"Thank you, mister Constellation!"

[…]

"Thank you so much for taking care of us, really…Thank you. We'll never forget this grace."

Said Jaesul slowly with a hoarse voice.

When they were about to die and when all other Constellations abandoned them.

The only Constellation to have saved them and brought them to the top.

It was a short period of three months, but it watched them more intently than any other.

Seodam, who remained silent until now, spoke.𝕟𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕝𝕦𝕤𝕓.𝕔𝕠𝑀

[I think you've mistaken something, I was only using you.]

"Yes. We know. And mister Constellation achieved his goal this morning."

[…?]

"But in the end, didn't you stay until we became independent?"

[Oh really.]

Seodam somehow felt it was strange.

It wasn't his goal to do something good.

Also, he didn't do anything worthy of being thanked.

He was just using them out of necessity to kill someone.

While watching the four, he would reiterate it many times.

Nevertheless it was no use.

In the end, the kindness they received meant a lot to them.

"Before you leave, we really want to say a proper goodbye."

They were vaguely aware of it.

The fact that their blessing will soon be gone.

The four slowly lifted their heads, looking at the place where Seodam is floating.

"One last thing…by any chance, can you tell us your real name?"

After thinking about it briefly, he replaced his message with something else.

[Constellation Yoo Seodam is looking at you with interest.]

Yoo Seodam.

They engraved this name into their hearts.

As dawn slowly approaches.

[Your blessing does not exist.]

In other words, their Constellation has left.

For some reason, they felt heartbroken and couldn't say anything for a while.

It felt like they had lost something important.

However, they weren't going to stop here.

With the dawn of a new day, Jaesul spoke to his colleagues and friends.

"Let's go. To the next stage."

They only had one wish.

To go back to their original world with everyone before they were brought here to be nothing but playthings.

Now it could be said that they've taken the first step towards that goal.

"Send me back."

After saying so, a message abruptly appeared in my mind.

[Returning to your original world.]

My vision became hazy, and everything began to collapse.

I used to close my eyes tightly because of the severe motion sickness, but now I didn't.

I just stood still, watching the world.

Moving into the distance.

Farther away from the world.

Then, when Arash's whole world came into view, I could see it.

A giant big enough to cover the world, a huge dragon with a bead in its mouth, something that is covered in fire, something shiny reminiscent of the universe…

They were all looking down at Arash's world.

That was when I instinctively realized.

These must be the Constellations.

I now understood why these overwhelming beings see humans as just toys.

Just looking at them, I felt my heart racing like it's going to burst out.

…And.

The Client had turned me, a mere human being, into a temporary but similar state as these Constellations.

When my view completely blacked.

I opened my mouth to ask.

"Client. Originally, I didn't think I would ask you, but."

…

"What the hell are you?"

My world is still black.

I waited for the Client's answer as I felt myself floating with the feeling of being weightless.

…It's still too early. However, I promise I will tell you when the time is right.

"Then at least tell me why it's too early."

In due time, but for now I can't tell you why it's too early."

"That's roundabout bullshit."

The Client is someone who wants to kill every protagonist in existence.

And I'm a person who can freely move between dimensions, killing ridiculous beings that are monopolizing their world's blessing.

"…I'm asking just to be sure. You're not a protagonist, are you?"

Then, as if coming from somewhere, I thought I heard a woman's laughter.

I'm probably mistaken.

Because the Client I know has never shown any emotions.𝕟𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕝𝕦𝕤𝕓.𝕔𝕠𝗆

No way.

"Is that so."

Do you want to see me?

"Of course."

…Well, then, just a glimpse.

Suddenly, the universe which was all around me, seemed to converge on a single point.

Accompanied by a dazzling array of gold colored lights was a woman…

"…Huk!"

[Time has returned to normal.]

When I came to my senses, I was back in my studio apartment on my bedding.

I quickly hunched up and felt my chest.

My heart felt stuffy, as if the wind had been knocked out of me.

'What was that?'

No, did it even happen?

Slowly standing up, I checked my remaining lifespan instead of my watch.

It has decreased by one day.

Which means one day has passed.

"…I can't believe I slept like a log for one day."

Maybe it's because I saw something in that gold color light.

Or maybe it's because I spent nearly 100 days in Arash's world.

There's no way to know.

I picked up my phone and checked the date.

As expected, only 25 days have passed on Earth.

"Hey, Client."

…

"Are you asleep?"

…

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It's strange.

She would always quickly reply whenever I called.

No, come to think of it, there was a time after the Lee Yeonjun incident that she didn't reply at all.

At the time, she had said that she was taking a break because she was tired, but…

It's unusual.

Can't do what can't be done.

I can only ask her later.

"Hmm."

Touching my black aether suit, somehow it felt stuffy.

Now that I think about it, I've never used a 1st-Grade suit before.

Taking off the suit and putting it into a box, I pushed it to a corner as I checked my gain.

[Arash's skill Inventory (B) has been absorbed.]

This was the skill I got from Arash.

There were quite a few other good skills since Arash was a battle mage, but I didn't get them in the end, still, I have no regret.

I wasn't sure what Inventory did, so I checked.

Inventory (B)

Description: Space of its own to store goods.

Maximum storage capacity: 70 kg

Maximum storage volume: 10 m3

Caution! Items with energy source above A-Rank cannot be stored.

Inventory, a skill very similar to a 'subspace,' was what I wanted to get the most.

It seems quite different from a subspace in many ways, but so what?

With some restrictions, Inventory can also bring stuff between worlds.

When I opened my inventory, a translucent brick-pattern window appeared in the air, and a list of items that were kept inside appeared.

Just before I left Arash's world, I wandered around in my astral form looking for materials similar to the ones recorded in the White Witch's library, and as a result, was able to get things that are similar, albeit not the same.

There was even a bag containing fairy dust and soil full of vitality floating in the air.

Although it wont blossom the Silver Spiritual Flower, it could still create a better environment for it.

Taking the stuff out, I led my tired body to the aether safe and opened it.

Inside was the flower swaying its withered petals.

"Hey. You're still alive, right?"

[Mhm.]

"I got some things that might be helpful to you, so hang in there."

[It's cold…]

After carefully removing the soil and placing it around the flower, I sprinkled the fairy dust inside the magic protected glass tube.

Fairy dust is almost like a pollen, so I had to carefully sprinkle it, and only managed to finish doing so after 30 minutes of standing.

[…It's nice.]

"Is this enough to keep you alive for the time being?"

[Mhm.]

I haven't found any proper materials yet.

I need to go search other dimensions, but for now I can't because I have plans with Celeste.

After finishing what I could do for the flower, I checked my ability.

My level has reached as high as 42.

It's safe to say that I'm really D-Rank now.

And at this growth rate, I'll be able to survive as a hunter anywhere.

Also, Wind Step and Mana Circling can push my physical fitness to the limit while White Swordsmanship allows me to hunt more efficiently, thus, if I were to properly work as a hunter, I'll be able to live comfortably without having to worry about money.

"By the way, what does equipment with energy above A-Rank mean?"

[Arbitrary grade system, determined by the amount of energy contained in the item.]

The answer was given by a machine-like system instead of the Client.

[If compared to Earth's equipment, 1st-Grade equipment corresponds to A-Rank.]

'Oh…So my mega shooter can be stored in my inventory?'

It's always been uncomfortable having to carry my mega shooter around.

This alone made it a great harvest.

Including my mega shooter, I stored some other low grade equipment that was taking up space in my apartment.

Next, I picked up my phone.

I've been away for a long time in another world, so I don't know what has been happening on Earth.

I checked several useful apps, including a timeline app that summarizes the news from the past few weeks.

It's a good app to use when you're short on time and want to quickly figure out what has been happening.

If I need to know more, I can click on the news and check.

While checking the news, I texted Taylor.

[Yoo Seodam: I'm back.]

I don't know why, but Taylor said to me, 'If you ever go to that strange place, message me every time you return,' and I had agreed, so that's what I'm doing.

Next, I texted Celeste.

Because there's the sword debate in a few days.

A reply came immediately from Celeste.

[Celeste: Photo (Link)]

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"Hm?"

It was a selfie of Celeste.

Or more precisely a rough selfie of a doll with no facial expression.

There was also a link in the photo.

[Celeste: It's my Stargram account.]

[Celeste: Please follow me.]

Follow?

[Yoo Seodam: Shouldn't you ask if I had an account first?]

For about 30 seconds there was no answer, then a text with a sullen emoji came back.

[Celeste: I'm sorry. I've had one for a while, so I thought mister Seodam had one too.]

[Yoo Seodam: …]

Well, I had nothing to say.

[Yoo Seodam: But what's this for?]

[Celeste: I'm trying to increase my social media presence for the sword debate.]

[Celeste: I'd like to follow mister Seodam's account.]

[Yoo Seodam: That's fine.]

[Celeste: I just wanted to.]

Well…

I didn't like using social media very much even though many people started using it later than I did.

It's very annoying having to learn something new.

Still, I checked Celeste's account just to see what it looked like.

"Crazy, a million followers?"

When she made her hunter debut a few months ago, she said she didn't even have a social media account.

Right, after the incident with the UTV reporter, she created an account to live broadcast.

I didn't pay any attention to it since then because I have no interest, but now I couldn't believe it has exploded in this short period of time.

Well, it's stranger it didn't happen sooner considering she has the looks, connection, wealth, and talent.

This was bound to happen from the moment she created her social media account.

I slowly looked through her post timeline.

There was an expressionless selfie that wasn't different from her normal look she had uploaded with thousands of positive reactions from people saying it was another good selfie.

Looking at the most recent ones, I saw some that were taken with Taylor, and judging by her pouty expressions, it seemed like Celeste forced Taylor to take them.

Still, she wasn't coldhearted to disregard her junior.

Taylor's fierce exterior is just a pretense.

'Huh?'

Looking at the picture with Taylor, I noticed a comment.

It was in English, but it's possible to translate it into Korean perfectly.

[Aren: It's been awhile since I saw a picture of Taylor You're as beautiful as ever. (Likes: 29 / Dislikes: 97)]

[Taylor Nine: Hey (beep)holes. Who left a comment? After going through it, I feel like I'm going to puke. It's the same (beep)hole. (Likes: 4539 / Dislike: 127)]

…Taylor's reply was over the top.

I wonder how heated she must have been while writing the comment.

Aren.

Me and Taylor have a great deal of bad blood with this guy.

As the 12th strongest S-Rank superhuman who debuted three years after me, he has always despised me on the battlefield, and my self esteem was low at the time, so I didn't really care much since it was something that happened often.

However, whenever it happened, Taylor would step forward.

She would throw all kinds of insults at Aren, but the more Aren was criticized, the more he started chasing after Taylor, saying he liked it.

'That bastard is really persistent though.'

Wasn't it time he came to his senses after being cursed that much?

Anyways, I was amazed that Aren also had Stargram, so I clicked on his account.

'…He's so rich?'

Instead of selfies, he posted photos of a strange tattoo on the back of his hand, gold necklaces, expensive wallets, and suspicious hand gestures on top of cars.

His number of followers is also formidable.

Well, Aren is a strong S-Rank superhuman, and also held a high position in the Master Swordsmen Association.

'Wait a minute. So he's coming to the sword debate?'

It's fine either way, but I'm still reluctant to see a creep.

As I mindlessly scrolled through Aren's posts, I noticed something strange.

Aren is seen wearing different accessories in every photo except for two accessories that are worn in every one.

An old wooden bracelet around his right wrist and an old fashioned pearl necklace around his neck.

It didn't seem like something Aren, a person who pursues 'cool,' would wear, but he wore them in every photo.

Oh, right.

I remember now.

I'm certain he had them on him when we met a few years ago.

'These…'

[Skill White Witch's Library (F) activated.]

Before I could guess what these accessories were, my skill noticed it first.

[Starting magic search.]

[Searching…]

[Search complete: Ordering by original imprint.]

[Enchants identified as Enhance Strength (B) and Enhance Agility (C).]

[The corresponding magic skills are confirmed to be compatible.]

[Do you wish to try 'Cracking?']

Magic?

The White Witch's Library skill had extracted information concerning 'magic' from the Stargram photos.

Taking a closer look at the photos, there are certainly bizarre patterns on the accessories.

Patterns I have no knowledge of.

However, the White Witch's library does.

…I can't believe it can search for magic.

Come to think of it, I haven't encountered any other magic since I absorbed this skill.

The challengers in Arash's world had something similar to superpowers, rather than magic.

But if I had encountered magic, the White Witch's library probably would have done a magic search.

Isn't this too good to be true?

The more I thought about it, the more I couldn't believe White Witch Library is a F-Rank skill.

"What's magic cracking? What happens if I try?"

[Magic cracking means breaking into a magic system to analyze and understand it.]

"Well…let's give it a try."

After waiting a minute, a message appeared.

[An error has occurred.]

[Unknown barrier in Magic system.]

…I think it might be because it's just a picture.

In any case, it might be possible to crack it in person.

"Anyways, these should be artifacts, right?"

[Confirmed to be magic artifacts.]

This is quite interesting.

Magic artifacts with Enhance Strength and Agility found on the earth.

The fact that Aren, a superhuman, wore these artifacts is the first point.

It could be said that artifacts are the equivalent of having another superpower.

If a S-Rank superhuman had it, they would have left a big impression.

However, Aren is only a moderately strong S-Rank, and there's nothing particularly special about him.

So, with the help of artifacts he was able to improve his abilities?

The second point.

Where did these artifacts come from?

There should not be magic on Earth.

…Of course, that's as far as I know.𝕟𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕝𝕦𝕤𝕓.𝕔𝕠𝔪

I couldn't be certain whether that's true or not.

For example, the deformed dungeon last time was a place of magic.

Although it was impossible to even get in without magic, in the first place, not all dungeons are the same.

The most likely scenario is that the artifacts came from a dungeon.

There had been such rumors.

Sometimes, there were rumors of unknown objects being found in deformed or unusual dungeons.

Unknown to the public, these objects are often referred to as 'talismans' by veteran hunters because it allows them to use mysterious abilities similar to superpowers.

Most were useless, but very rarely, there are ones that could shoot out electricity, see incredibly far away, or suddenly turn your skin clean.

I've never seen one before, so I never thought much of it, but seeing it now, it seems like all talismans are just artifacts from magic dungeons.

This little problem might turn into something bigger.

Currently there are no organizations on Earth to deal with these artifacts.

But if there was, I will have to hide the existence of magic.

However, let alone that, I'm still too weak to protect my own secrets.

Frankly speaking, I would be in a bad situation if an A-Rank superhuman ambushes me now.

For now, these artifacts seem to be low level.

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Aren's artifacts are far inferior to the White Witch's magic.

So another point came to mind.

In Vivienda Magic Academy and White Witch's library there are no 'body enhancement' spells.

[Magic that strengthens the body is strictly forbidden.]

[There will be side effects if magic is cast on the human body to forcefully enhance their abilities.]

"Side effects?"

[Faster aging, damage to the nerves or muscles, and in severe cases the body will fall apart.]

Crazy.

In the White Witch's library it explains that it's not difficult to strengthen the body with forbidden magic.

However, it's just too difficult to strengthen the body without any side effects.

If Aren is really using these artifacts…

…It's only a matter of time before something bad happens.

I thought about it for a little bit before turning off Aren's social media.

I didn't think it was necessary to solve the problems of a scumbag who screwed me in the past.

Putting down my phone, I activated the skill White Witch's Library.

Countless bookshelves with book titles clearly appeared in front of me.

Taking a glance, and as expected, the books on 'body enhancements' were sorted under 'Forbidden!'

Actually, as a hunter, I took care of my body properly and didn't want to do anything that might go wrong.

If I was going to do something like this, I'd have injected myself with some kind of drug to gain superpowers only to get mana poisoned already.

Apart from that, the White Witch's library has many books worth studying.

There was so much more knowledge here than I had initially thought.

Although it's only the size of a local library, it's still very bountiful.

I haven't read every book here, but I did study in my spare time when I was in Arash's world.

There are sections I haven't checked yet, so I looked through the bookshelves one by one.

Just from looking at the titles made me dizzy, then…

…What's this?

A white door had appeared.

The door, which was clearly visible in the air, has a doorknob, of course.

However, it was as if it's protesting me to open it.

Like a butterfly tempted by a fragrant flower, I unknowingly reached for it.

Suddenly, a sharp sound rang in my head.

[Warning! Accessing White Witch's Library (E) will result in 'witching.']

…What?

Momentarily surprised, I cautiously stepped back.

Well, the library itself is like an illusion that only I can see, so it followed my view.

"Witching? What the hell is that?"

[Witching refers to your mind and body becoming like that of a witch.]

The fuck?

If that's true, then my emotions would cease to exist like the White Witch.

On the flip side, I might become a species that can freely use magic like witches, however, it's not even a choice I would consider if I have to give up my emotions.

And, there's no way to know what the actual side effects are.

Currently, the skill is F-Rank, but that door means this skill can grow.

There is already a great deal of information, knowledge, and function at F-Rank, so what about E-Rank?

"Is there a way to access E-Rank without witching?"

[There should be no problem if you can physically and mentally withstand an E-Rank witch's knowledge.]

Oh…?

It was somewhat vague, but at least it's possible to prevent it.

Taylor Nine looked at the collapsed construction site in irritation.

"Sick bastards."

Her mission this time was to deal with the villains hiding in Jamsil.

In this era where superpowers have become the norm, not all superhumans were hunters.

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Rather, according to the statistical numbers, there are more superhuman criminals than there are hunters.

That's also why there are hunters who exclusively go after villains and are classified as 'Villain Hunter' instead of 'Monster Hunter.'

Taylor is quite unique in that she hunts both monsters and villains.

There really isn't a reason why she chose to do so other than a way for her to make money.

Though, she still felt reluctant to kill people.

Blood dripped from a steel bar as it's pushed aside by Taylor's baseball bat.

Her physical ability is about the same as a normal adult female, but it's a different story when she put a 'light' at the end of her baseball bat.

The steel bar blew away with a bang.

"Hey, you fucking idiots. Why did you destroy the construction site?"

As a S-Rank hunter, Taylor was able to easily deal with these villains without getting a single scratch.

However, it became a problem when these villains got scared and destroyed this construction site with their abilities.

The cost of the damages will be taken out from her commission.

But what happened has happened.

What can she do?

She took out her phone to take a few photo evidences, then with a deep sigh, walked into the construction site.

The construction here was suspended two years ago, but the reason why this half finished building was left untouched without being demolished is because of the so-called 'gangsters' occupying this place.

Finding a road that led underground, she smashed a huge iron door blocking it with her light sphere and wiped off the debris.

Then, as the dust settled, she saw dozens of people tied up in chains.

Jamsil and the surrounding areas are run by gangsters.

These gangsters were influential enough to reach out to politicians, companies, and even cops in the Seoul metropolitan area, but in the end, were caught by the villains.

'Well, they're not gangsters anymore but politicians.'

Apparently, when the villains tried to occupy this area, the gangsters, who had their own beliefs, decided to protect Jamsil and fought against the superhumans…

As a result, such a mess happened.

Taylor carefully untied the bindings of the liveliest looking man, patted his back, and spoke with irritation.

"Hey, son of a bitch. Stop being a gangster. Free the rest of your friends on your own."

"Ye-yes! Thank you!"

This last part of a mission always made Taylor uncomfortable, so she just left.

Leaving the underground's dirty and stale air, fresh city air welcomed her.

She wanted to smoke a cigarette, but couldn't do so in the city, so she habitually took out a piece of candy.

Another reason was because Yoo Seodam took care of his body and that made her reluctant to smoke.

That's why she always carried candies with her to stop herself from smoking, even though she still drinks.

Taylor, sitting idly at a bus stop and yawning, noticed someone pointing their phone at her.

These were crazy people that tried to take pictures secretly.

"Can't a person have the right to privacy in this country?"

Taylor, without missing a beat, raised her middle finger at the camera.

She was worn out from all the shit that happened today.

Her mission was complete, so she picked up her phone to report, and while typing, saw a text message from Yoo Seodam, who had been away for the past few days.

[Yoo Seodam: I'm back.]

Seeing the message, Taylor smiled happily.

'Bastard, so you do listen.'

[Taylor Nine: Where are you?]

[Yoo Seodam: I'm still at home.]

[Yoo Seodam: But I'm leaving for Jamsil soon.]

[Taylor Nine: Jamsil?]

Suddenly, she raised her head.

A huge stadium appeared in the corner of her view.

Until 30 years it was a place called Jamsil Sports Complex, but since then has been redesigned as a training facility for superhumans.

And, in a few days, the 'International Swordsmanship Debate' will be held there.

[Taylor Nine: Come to think of it, are you going to participate in the sword debate this time??]

[Yoo Seodam: Yes.]

Clearly, as Celeste's master he was definitely qualified.

When Taylor saw his answer, she smiled, and replied.

[Taylor: Okay, me too.]

Although she's not really interested in swordsmanship, she suddenly thought it wouldn't be so bad to go this time as she got up and headed for Jamsil Stadium.

Seodam awkwardly straightened his tie.

A clean formal attire could be seen underneath his trench coat.

As the official sword instructor to the Constantini's eldest daughter, he was asked to at least wear formal attire to the International Swordsmanship Debate.

But since he didn't have a suit or any formal wear, Celeste had prepared one for him.

It was a custom tailored luxury suit, and perhaps because of Seodam's well defined muscles accentuating every part of the suit, it looked quite good.

"It looks good on you."

Said Celeste.

"Wow. It doesn't look good on you."𝕟𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕝𝕦𝕤𝕓.𝕔𝕠𝞳

Said Taylor.

Seodam, who was speechless, kept his mouth shut.

Taylor chuckled and patted him on the shoulder.

"Hehe, well, still. It's worth looking at."

Dumbfounded, Seodam asked.

"Why are you here?"

Currently, Seodam and the two are heading towards Jamsil Stadium.

It was very surreal seeing how much the stadium had changed since it was announced that this year's swordsmanship debate would be held in Korea.

And Taylor, who looks out of place here, he couldn't help but be dumbfounded.

"Why, I can't be here? I'm done with my mission, so I'm taking a break."

Said Taylor, glaring at Seodam.

"Also, you look a bit younger."

"What?"

"What product are you using for your skin? Why don't you share some with your friends."

"If I have the kind of money to put something on my face, I'd rather buy another aether bullet."

"You crazy punk…"

Taylor grumbled, then Celeste spoke.

"I think it's about time."

Today, master swordsmen from all over the world will be gathered here.

For that reason, crowds of ordinary people, cameramen, vendors, police, officials, and notable hunters could be seen here.

Celeste and Taylor, who are quite conspicuous, had quite a few people come up to greet them whenever they passed by.

"Miss Celeste. This swordsmanship…"

"I don't know Korean."

"Hunter Taylor! Why did you come to today's debate…"

"Fuck off."

Although the two women handled it differently, both were able to efficiently repel the approaching crowd.

Though, unlike Taylor, Celeste turned on her translator to politely answer the right reporter or official whenever they approached.

Contrary to the two, no one approached Seodam, whose face is hardly known.

That was until.

"Ah, aren't you hunter Yoo Seodam?"

"…?"

Seodam turned his head when he heard someone calling his name.

Although it was a familiar face, it's the first time they've met in person.

It was the S-Rank hunter Lee Junseok, a member of Velvet, one of the top five guilds in Korea.

He's also one of the most famous hunters in Korea.

"I didn't expect to see you here. Haha, it's a pleasure to meet you."

"Yes, nice to meet you…but, may I help you?"

Sensing the tense greeting, Lee Junseok waved his hands with the expression of 'don't get me wrong.'

"It's nothing. Just, I heard you cleared a deformed dungeon with just one other person, and it was a S-Rank no less. You're really amazing."

Lee Junseok had also greeted Taylor and Celeste.

But he was paying more attention to Seodam.

So the situation looked rather awkward when he didn't look at the two hunters that everyone else was paying attention to.

Lee Junseok naturally walked alongside Seodam towards Jamsil Stadium.

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Contrary to Taylor's irritated expression, Seodam briefly spoke to Lee Junseok, thinking it wouldn't be bad to become acquaintances.

"Actually, my abilities have nothing to do with swordsmanship. Still, I wanted to see the skills of the master swordsmen."

"I see."

Along the way it was mostly Lee Junseok talking and Seodam responding.

"It's going to be a swordsmanship debate and sparring, right? That's how things were in the past, but it's different these days. Something like…traditional swordsmanship has been overshadowed in the modern era."

"I guess that's why people are looking forward to this big event. It's not a mindless spectacle."

Lee Junseok doesn't even use a sword, but it could be said that he loved it more than even some masters.

Passing by people, Lee Junseok quietly pointed and clicked his tongue as they passed several 'master' swordsmen.

"These kinds of people shouldn't be showing their faces here."

The word 'master' seems to imply a master swordsman, but he'd rather have it be ranked.

Master swordsman.

Unfortunately, it's a meaningless term because even those who could not defeat a E-Rank superhuman could be considered a 'master swordsman.'

Though, they've helped keep the sword tradition alive in modern times, and thanks to that, there are superhumans who use the sword, but it's also inevitable that ordinary swordsmen are weaker than those with superpowers.

Because they couldn't' do anything when the odds are against them.

And, it's better to shoot an aether gun than to swing an aether blade as an ordinary person.

…It was common sense, and not long ago, Seodam also thought the same.

But not anymore.

Unfortunately, the problem is simply because Earth's swordsmanship is lacking, not because swords are weak.

There was a limit to what mana can do for the swordsmanship on Earth.

Seodam didn't feel very good about this sword debate.

Because this swordsmanship debate was full of ordinary martial artists who still held regrets of not having superpowers.

"That's why I don't really like 'Aren,' a master swordsman."

"Aren?"

Seodam tilted his head, not expecting to hear that name.

At the same time, Taylor creased her eyebrows, but Lee Junseok didn't see it because Seodam was in the way.

"Yes. You've heard of him?"

"Of course. But why?"

"Aren occupies a high position in the Master Swordsmen Association."

"Ah…is that so?"

"Yes. Ah, come to think of it, I heard he came with a 'kendo master' this time. You understand that could only mean Sanagi, the master swordsman of the Okamoto family, right? She was all over the news when she awakened as a C-Rank superhuman at age 20."

"I know."

It's none other than Celeste's rival.

"And, I heard that Aren has been teaching the eldest daughter of the Okamoto family. Well, I get why. It's more effective to be instructed by a martial artist with similar strengths."

In addition, he's a strong S-Rank superhuman.

"It appears the Okamoto family came prepared. Well, for nearly a decade they've been in the shadows of the Costantini family and now they finally have the opportunity to build up their reputation."

Celeste's father, Salvatore, is a powerful SS-Rank swordsman while Sanagi's father, Itsei, is still only S-Rank.

Even though he has the title of 'master swordsman,' his pride was hurt by a simple missing letter.

And with the end of their era, now it's their children's era.

Itsei Okamoto seems to be trying to restore his pride by having his daughter beat Salvatore's daughter.

"Hm…"

I wasn't aware of such politics happening behind the scene.

Yet, in the midst of all this, Celeste was determined to take me, a F-Rank, as her instructor, and Salvatore who allowed it.

Somehow I felt like a big shot.

As such, I thought to myself as I entered the new stadium that looks like an event hall.

There were many people in uniform for the swordsmanship debate.

"Senior. Where have you been?"

Lee Junseok, who was constantly talking to Seodam even as they entered, finally stopped when he heard a person's voice on the side.

It was a woman in her mid to late twenties.

"Ah. Heejung, didn't you already go to your seating?"

"What do you mean, really…How can I go there alone without you? Who is that next to you?"

Heejung's eyes brightened when she saw a man walking with Lee Junseok.

As a member of the Velvet guild like Junseok, as well as being a A-Rank superhuman, she once made headlines for gaining a C rank fire ability as soon as she awakened.

Her eyes shone when she saw Lee Junseok excitedly talking to this man, thinking he was probably a celebrity.

"Ah, right! This is Yoo Seodam. He's a F-Rank hunter that has been active for 15 years. You've heard of him, haven't you?"

"…What? F-Rank?"

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Unlike Lee Junseok who enthusiastically introduced Seodam as if he was amazing, Heejung's eyes waned immediately.

However, she's been a hunter for three years.

So although she didn't try to show it because she had some decorum, anyone could tell that she had lost interest.

"Ah…Yes! I think I've heard of you. It's nice to meet you."

Lee Junseok noticed the poor reception and became embarrassed, unlike Seodam who remained calm.

"Ahaha, she's still new and doesn't know."

"…Hm. Well, it doesn't matter. Can we go now?"

Said Seodam, covering Taylor's mouth with both hands, as Lee Junseok sweated profusely.

It was because it was quite difficult sealing this Pandora's box, which was about to burst.

Nonetheless, it's a headache being in the spotlight here where there are many celebrities.

"Ah, haha…Excuse my manners. Then, we'll be going now. I have to get seated since I'm representing my guild."

"Yes."

After saying their goodbyes, Lee Junseok turned around, but then looked back at Seodam when he suddenly thought of something.

"Ah, also. I hope you can participate in this year's 'Korea's Hunter Conference'. There's something I really want to ask you about Hell Gate…"

"…"

With those final words, Lee Junseok and Heejung hurried to their seats.

After walking for a while and out of Taylor and Seodam's sight, Lee Junseok looked at Heejung and spoke.

"…Heejung. What was that pathetic way of greeting your senior just now?"

"What? What's the big deal, he's a F-Rank hunter. Isn't he just an ordinary person?"

Although Yoo Seodam is not a celebrity, people still knew that he was kicked from Lost Day because it was publicized.

When Lee Junseok heard her say 'what's the big deal,' his tone instantly became cold as he spoke.

"…Yeah. An ordinary hunter who has lived on the battlefield for 15 years and had even survived Hell Gate. Do you understand?"

"Oh, uh…That's great, but…"

"Ahn Heejung."

Lee Junseok pitifully looked at Heejung and spoke.

"I know you're following me around trying to network. And since you're such a good junior, I don't mind it. I also don't think there's anything wrong for a junior to gain connections through me."

Exposed, Heejung kept her mouth shut as she broke out in cold sweats at the thought that Lee Junseok had known all this time.

"So I tried to set up a good connection for you again this time. It was a short time, but I tried to gain his favor, and I wanted to give you all the effort I made. But you threw it away."

"Ah…s-sorry…"

"I'm very disappointed, Heejung."

After saying so, Lee Junseok turned around and went ahead first.

Heejung stayed behind, gripping the hem of her dress and lost in thought.

She still couldn't understand it.

It wasn't because she's a prideful A-Rank hunter, or that she belongs to a top five guild in Korea called Velvet, or that she was in her twenties chasing only celebrities.

No, rather, she saw him as he is.

'The hell…Isn't he just a F-Rank hunter?"

She has heard enough about Yoo Seodam.

He was involved in two rather big incidents.

However, the A and S rank veteran hunters with more than five years of experience she knew were reluctant to reveal anything about the incidents.

'Uh, well. Okay. It's great, but…That's all?'

'Wasn't it Taylor who cleared the deformed dungeon last time? The energy output showed it was a SS-Rank dungeon.'

'F-Rank. There was also the time he looked a little smart…But there's a limit.'

'15 years. He's been active for a long time without superpowers. That's amazing…But still, I'd rather take a third year C-Rank over him.'

'Right. Even a C-Rank porter is more useful, isn't it?'

Ahn Heejung view was skewed from listening to her seniors' experience on the battlefield of how superhumans are superior.

'I really don't understand…'

While she was agonizing over it, Lee Junseok quickly walked down the corridor.

Lee Junseok.

A S-Rank hunter who has been active for 10 years and has experienced all sorts of hardships.

He's been active in the industry long enough to have seen and heard more than an average hunter would, and because of that, he knew.

Hell Gate.

What does it mean for a person to survive hell?

Seodam is simply too talented to be treated the way he is just because he's F-Rank.

Perhaps if not for some manipulation from Lost Day, he would have been famous everywhere in the world now.

'I blew my chance.'

Thinking about it, if it wasn't for the interruption, he could have gotten a little closer to Seodam.

Lee Junseok quietly clicked his tongue.