The Protagonists Are Murdered By Me Chapter 9: 46-50, a 13 tzameti fanfic

Since that day, I've set up some 'surveillance cameras' near the humans' camp.

Thanks to my Inventory skill, it's now possible to bring various equipment.

With just a few relay points and antennas, I could monitor them from afar, albeit poor reception.

After checking their forces, I returned to the village of the Dawn Fairies.

The human force is a little over 3,000.

No matter how low their technologies are, given the numbers on their side, it's absolutely impossible to deal with them alone.

Before the hunt, one must familiarize themselves with the enemy's characteristics.

Unlike a herd of monsters, it seems like this will be my first time hunting a 'herd of humans.'

'The barrel of their firearms is shorter than I thought…Their cannons are also fairly primitive. But are those the only weapons they have?'

'Their rifle's precision range is a little over 100 meters. Beyond that, I only have to watch out for bullets in my blind spots.'

'Their cannons aren't dangerous, but it can reduce my barrier considerably. Although a few shots are fine, I have to be careful not to get hit.'

As expected, their technology is not even on par to the 19th century.

Not only are the range on their guns short, their cannons could only fire once before having to take a long time to reload.

"What do you think?"

Asked Marilyn, with a worried look as she put down the special honey on the table in front of me.

"For the time being, don't worry."

I didn't actually come here to exterminate them.

However, perhaps our goals are similar.

Marilyn mentioned that among the devils, there's someone extraordinarily strong.

It should be their Chief Commander.

I didn't understand what she meant by extraordinarily strong, but for now, my guess is that the Chief Commander is the protagonist.

And, I shouldn't underestimate them just because their technology is lacking.

After all, it's level 61.

Even though their technology is outdated, couldn't they have good physical abilities?

Maybe it's a crazy world where humans can cut down buildings with a knife or something like that.

"By the way, how's the flowerpot?"

"Ah. You mean the Silver Spiritual Flower."

A strange spirit born from violence, destruction, and death in Hell Gate.

Because the conditions to give birth to such a flower is strict, sure enough, the Silver Spiritual Flower is uncommon in this world.

According to Marilyn, the story goes that a silver spirit appeared on Dream Island when the Twilight Tree first took root.

'So then, was there a great war on Dream Island?'

There's no way to know.

Besides, I'm not the kind of person to worry about the unknown.

"Take a look over there. It's getting along with the spirits."

Near the Twilight Tree was the flowerpot, with its roots down the nearby lake.

A dreamy swarm of light subtly covered the sky in a purple aurora.

The specs of lights fell like snow as the silver flower swayed.

Such a sight was more beautiful than any sculpture.

Evident by the Dawn Fairies seated around the silver spirit as if they were possessed.

The spirits nearby had gathered near the silver spirit to play pranks using wind and water, and the silver spirit reacted each time.

[That's…That's not how you do it…]

[…Nope.]

"…Are you kidding."

[What? Is there a problem?]

"No. I feel the same way."

That rascal of a flower was admonishing the spirits.

It's really amazing.

"By the way, you can interact with the spirits, so why can't you use them?"

"That…"

Marilyn thought for a moment with a troubled look on her face, then soon spoke.

"Among the Dawn Fairies, only the Dawn Fairy queen can call on the spirit's power."

"…Queen?"

"She passed away. So the first princess, Arilyn, became the next heir. Since three years ago, she has been suffering from an illness. So the third through seventh princesses have been praying for her every day."

I briefly thought about it.

"Say…if the first princess dies, who will be the successor to the spirits?"

Marilyn looked into my eyes.

The clear violet eyes were shaking.

"…Naturally, it will be the next princess in line."

It wasn't just her who knew this fact, all the Dawn Fairies did.

However, they were all praying for the first princess to live.

So I didn't say anything.

Three days passed.

In the meantime, I've been quite busy.

Chief Commander of the human force.

The person who's supposed to be the protagonist hasn't shown up, so I was thinking of ways to lure it out.

It would be best if I could also get rid of the human troops.

Marilyn had mentioned that sometimes the Chief Commander would come forward when something important happens.

Since she said that.

I've been preparing in advance accordingly.

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First, my equipment.

Modern firearms not only had bullets, but also various features like fire, electricity, poison, and so forth to deal with monsters.

I also added magic to further enhance their effectiveness.

Explosives that originally spread fire in all directions were enhanced with magic to automatically locate enemies and strike them with electricity.

The harmony of science and magic.

Although my magic is not very good and it's not very useful yet, this alone has increased the efficiency of my equipment.

I've set up explosives all over the valley where their hang gliders could pass.

Then, an unexpected situation happened.

Wiing, wiing!

I immediately checked the surveillance camera when it detected something, and what I saw can only be described as bizarre.

"What…this…?"

The humans were mounting the hang gliders that I thought were just props on their backs like wings.

However, it appears that's not the case.

"Hang gliders…they're taking off vertically?"

Vertical takeoff.

A technology perfectly reasonable on Earth.𝕟𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕝𝕦𝕤𝕓.𝕔𝕠𝒎

However, it was only made possible in the 21st century using fairly advanced technology.

Yet, now they've taken off vertically using wings made of paper.

"What the hell…"

Staring at the monitors, I noticed something strange on their wings.

Between dozens of cogwheels were large and small moving propellers.

'…There seems to be some strange principle behind their flying.'

Earth's flying technology is clearly much better.

A fighter jet flying at supersonic speed or a rocket flying into outer space.

However, their 'ability to use the wind itself' is much better than Earth's.

With only a few pieces of wood, paper, and iron, they were able to fly freely in the sky.

Instead of 19th century technologies, what if they had 21st century technologies?

'Controlling the wind, was this what she meant…'

I thought it was simply flying, but I was wrong.

'Still, there's no problem.'

Whether they can fly in the sky or not, in the end, it's within my capability.

I hurriedly packed my equipment and climbed up a rocky mountain I had scouted in advance.

This was the highest rocky mountain near here, and unlike the other rocky mountains floating in the air, this mountain was so close to the ground that it was easy to climb up and down.

It took me 15 minutes to get to the top of the mountain.

I quickly took out my mega shooter, connected the barrel, set up a bipod, and laid down.

After inserting a scope with a len that extends 30 times and setting the type of bullet to 'general assault,' I brought the scope up to my eye.

"…"

It used to be a hassle measuring the distance from a target and having to account for the strength and direction of the wind using your tongue and finger, but these days, most of it has been solved by the power of science.

When a target is caught by the scope, it automatically zero in on the target as it adjusts to the wind and position.

Though, there was very little wind on Dream Island, making it the perfect environment for snipers.

At this time, the sun began to rise, ushering in a new dawn.

It only lasts for three hours, and today during this hazy morning, seven devils with their hang gliders have appeared.

Based on their numbers, I guess it's the patrol unit.

I aimed at a human head that has appeared in my sight.

The distance is about 7km or so.

This distance would have been difficult for normal rifles to reach, but my aether enhanced bullets are enough.

And it was me, a person who has a talent for sharpshooting, that held the rifle.

…Tung!

Something like a sparrow lightly fell.

Marilyn held a bowl of warm honey tea in one arm and the 'flowerpot' in the other.

The spirit guide had told her to carry it at all times, so that's what she's been doing, even though it was uncomfortable.

Holding onto it, she climbed a tree.

Her sister, Arilyn, has been living in this tree, which is the tallest one, all this time.

There wasn't a reason for it other than Arilyn's love for the sky.

Marilyn and her sister liked looking at the sky together.

All the Dawn Fairies liked the color purple, but for some reason, the 'princesses' were unique in that they liked other colors and not purple.

For example, the third liked green and the fourth liked red.

Among the seven princesses, she was the only one that liked the color blue.

Knock, knock.

She knocked, but there was no answer.

It was strange.

To nurse Arilyn, the five princesses would pray.

Did they not hear her because they were too focused?

No way.

"Sisters, I'm coming in."

Said Marilyn, carefully opening the door and instinctively covering her nose.

Something.

A suspicious smell brushed her nose.

'This is…?'

Looking inside.

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All five sisters who were supposed to nurse Arilyn were lying on the floor.

'Sleep…gas…?'

She knew it was a skill used by the devils.

Scattering gas, a skill to force the Dawn Fairies to sleep.

But why was it here…

'No way!'

Marilyn rushed to the bedside with her nose closed, then reached out her hand to check her sister's breath.

'No…breath…?'

Faced with this unbelievable reality, Marilyn fell to the floor.

Arilyn.

Dead.

"Ah…"

She had unknowingly let go of her hands and inhaled.

Her senses began to go numb.

While this was happening, Marilyn looked at the faces of her fallen sisters one by one.

There were only four.

Tap tap.

Hearing the sound of footsteps, Marilyn slowly turned her head.

Identical purple hair and eyes, there, stood the youngest princess.

"…Youngest sister."

"Big sister. How are you feeling?"

"This…this…was it you…?"

The always innocent youngest.

A child more cheerful than anyone else who brought smiles to other fairies.

She still had a cheerful expression on her face.

"Yes."

"…Why?"

"Because it's time."

Marilyn tried to persevere using her willpower.

'Must not fall asleep.'

The thought that if she falls here, everyone will be finished.

But, it wasn't due to Marilyn's willpower.

"…Hm. Also, it looks like you've been given the 'spirit inheritance.' Just because you were born, it's all yours. You don't think that's right?"

"What are you saying…That's…obvious…"

It's a fact.

It's always been that way, is that way, and will be that way.

That's the Dawn Fairies's culture.

However, the youngest couldn't accept it.

"No. You're wrong. I…I don't think it makes sense for you sisters who have no talent and no dream to inherit that ability."

"…What?"

The youngest princess, Sarilyn, opened her hand.

Suddenly, a gust of wind began swirling on top.

'…Even though she doesn't have the spirit inheritance, it's the power of spirits!'

"What…?"

"It's talent, big sister. I was born with the power to govern spirits. Every spirit loves me, and I love them too…And, once I inherit the spirit inheritance, this talent will shine."

"Just because I'm the youngest, I had no chance at the inheritance."

How miserable it felt.

It was something other Dawn Fairies would never know.

"…No way. All this for such a reason?"

"No."

It was not.

"Big sister. Did you know? There are over 100 other islands beside Dream Island in this world. You didn't know, right?"

"…"

"Those we call devils are not actually devils. They're just a little more developed than us, albeit greedy…Also, they're capable of 'dreaming.' A very romantic bunch."

Sarilyn slowly approached Marilyn and held her chin.

"Soon, this world will be in flames. The devils…no. 'Humans' have already found a way to move to other islands. It's impossible for this island to accommodate all of us."

Therefore.

"We're going to start a war with this world. Don't you see? Unknown to us, the war had already begun. We just didn't know it and have been living a complacent life. I just…I just wanted to save the Dawn Fairies. Hey, big sister. Hey! Have you heard of 'war?' You know. To kill or die. Such a war."

"…"

"From reading the 'Dawn Fairy's forbidden book,' I understood everything. So I joined hands with humans. I'm going to marry one of them and have a baby. Me who has the spirits and humans who have the wind and gunpowder will be united. It's really fantastic, isn't it? Right?"

Marilyn, with trembling eyes, asked.

"Then, it was you who called the devils…?"

"That's right. Now that Arilyn is dead, it won't be long before the humans arrive. Don't worry about it. I've told you the truth. Because I love you. They're not going to treat us badly."

Sarilyn gently stroked Marilyn's chin.

"Big sister, let's leave together. This Dream Island."

Dawn Fairies do not dream because their life is a dream.

"It's time for you to wake up from this 'dream.'"

So.

"Hand over your inheritance to me."

Marilyn, who had just received the inheritance, is not able to properly use the power of spirits.

On the other hand, Sarilyn is talented in controlling spirits and has been practically, so she's able to easily overpower Marilyn.

[That's…]

That would have been the case, but.

[That's not how you do it…]

"…Huh?"

The wind stopped.

The humans were made aware of an unknown enemy.

I had shot down three people that day while the rest hid on ground before I could shoot them.

Though, from the start, I intended to spare a few.

Only that way will they know there exists an enemy who has superior technology to theirs.

Fear of the unknown.

Now the human will have to move in large numbers.

Also, I had told the Dawn Fairies to relocate.

It was easy for them because the trees can turn into houses on their own.

'Slowly moving.'

Having confirmed through the cameras that the enemy was flying up from their camp, I quickly packed my equipment and headed for a floating cliff.

50, then 100, then finally 150 flew up in formation.

Altogether 300 enemies.

No matter what level of weapons they have, even an A-Rank hunter will not be able to deal with all of them at once because of their limited stamina.

However, it's possible with the help of equipment.

'I'm going to break the bank again today.'

I took out a pair of sunglasses from my inventory, put them on, then held my breath.

These sunglasses have a handy radar HUD (Head-Up Display), which has an active infrared sensor, and depending on the equipment available, thermal imaging surveillance, partial fluoroscope, echolocation, and so on are possible.

At the moment, I have no choice but to roughly mark the enemy's position…

There were not even that many enemies.

'They're coming.'

Points marked A to F were shown on a monitor next to me, and as soon as I saw about 30 troops passing by Point C, I pressed the switch to the bomb I had installed at that location.

…Boom!!

Somewhere, an explosion sounded.

Checking my camera, about half were injured or dead and the other half remained unscathed.

Although I can't fully see the enemy's movements and it was slightly out of range, their reaction was still quite fast.

Then, every time an enemy passed by a point, an alarm would ring and I would trigger a series of bombs.

At times it was an electric field piercing them, other times it was flames rising to the sky.

The nature that the Dawn Fairies deeply cherish was slightly damaged in the process…

Though, I'm not the type of person to care about that in the first place.

Boom, Boom!!

Explosions came from all directions.

I can't kill them all.

However, since my goal was to block them from heading towards the Dawn Fairies, it could be said that I've accomplished that.

Dealing with all 3,000 humans is difficult, but 300 was easy enough.

'There are probably less than 100 dead.'

As expected, I didn't even get half, still, it's no problem.

Losing their will to fight because of some unknown technology.

They're scared of the next wave…

But in fact, there's no such thing.

I don't know if there was an emergency order or what, but after a while, the enemies disappeared somewhere.

The total casualty I inflicted today is about 80 people.

So far, I've used up about 20% of the explosive I had to inflict this much.

I was satisfied with my inventory even though the lack of resources won't be enough to deal with 3,000 people.

It's already been three days since.

An unidentified enemy had appeared out of nowhere, blocking the few humans from heading to the Fairies' camp.

Whatever 'its' intentions are, the humans have suffered a great loss.

In just three days, more than 200 people have died.

Adding the wounded, nearly 300 people are incapacitated.

The humans couldn't even tell how many enemies there were, where they were, or what technologies they used.

But one thing they were certain of, and that is, the other side has far superior technologies to theirs.

Precise shots to the head from thousands of meters away.

A warning for them to stop fighting by demonstrating its superior technology.

However…for them, retreating now is not an option.

"An order from the Chief Commander."

Then, on the third day.

The usually calm Chief Commander, who had remained silent until as many as 200 of his men died, finally gave an order.

"Against this, we're going to 'make a sortie.'"

"Yes sir!"

The humans have two elite units.

One is the Whirlwind Special Mobile Strike Force.

And the other is the Gale Special Mobile Strike Force.

The Whirlwind Special Mobile Strike Force could glide freely in the air for long range attacks, and now the Chief Commander has finally decided to take out this trump card.

Even when they had attacked the fairies, these units were not used.

Because these were prepared as countermeasures against the 'alien races' that would exist on other islands.

'The Chief Commander must have judged that this enemy is more dangerous than the alien races.'

When Marick, the captain of the Whirlwind Special Mobile Strike Force, saw 49 of his men equipped with the machines called 'Wings of Hope,' with a firm look, he spoke.

"The Chief Commander's report says the enemy we're going to be killing is 'one.' So, you don't have to be afraid."

"…"

The men looked around at one another.

There was no helping it.

No matter how they look at it, it should be at least 9 or 10 people.

"This was the Chief Commander's conclusion."

"Is that so sir…"

The Chief Commander has absolute authority, and is also the strongest soldier here.

And for the most part, his judgement is accurate.

Also, based on the evidence and conclusion they've speculated, the soldiers had no choice but to believe those words.

"From here, it's the Chief Commander's guesses. The enemy uses a more highly developed 'artillery shell' than us. The shells can explode from a distance without being fired, and the enemy's firearm appears to have a range of at least 20 times that of ours."

It was hopeless just listening to the briefing.

Firearms.

When it was only them, such technology was more reliable than anything else they had, but now it was terrifying to think an enemy has it.

Furthermore, artillery that can explode from a distance.

"However, unless the shells are set up in advance, it will not detonate. In other words, we have to avoid places where the enemy might have set up traps. Also, if any of you are in the shell's range of detonation…"

Then, the Chief Commander pointed to three markings on a map to Marick.

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"Here, here, and here."

Marick looked at each of his men, then spoke.

"The enemy must be somewhere here."

An order for a sortie had come down.

Once they realized that the enemy could shoot from an invisible distance, they saw no reason to go into open spaces where they could clearly be seen, thus, they flew low to cloak themselves.

Hundreds of rocks and plants floating in the air also made for an excellent cover, and the moonlight from the dim twilight soon became a curtain that obscured them.

'As expected, the shells won't detonate if we pick indirect routes leading to the fairies.'

"We're almost at the key point. Everyone be on high alert."

After Marick gave the order, he spoke to Deputy Commander Bike."

"Bike. Your mission is crucial in the extermination of the enemy. Can you do it?"

"I'll make sure of it."

"Okay. Go and come back."

Marick felt uneasy when he sent Bike.

Because Bike was risking his life.

'No. To kill an unknown enemy, this much is necessary.'

Marick, with a firm determination, was about to issue a follow-up order when…

…Tutung!

"Uck!"

The sound of a gunshot from somewhere, then of a soldier falling.

"Up 30 degrees northwest! Enemy spotted 300 meters in the distance!"

Screamed one of the soldiers who had good eyesight, then Marick turned his head.

There, wearing a strange steel armor and carrying a firearm much larger than a gun, was somebody or something.

The shots would come from thousands of meters away every time, however, it was much closer this time.

'He must have been in a hurry to stop us from taking this route that leads to the fairies.'

'This is our chance!'

"Everyone, full bloom formation!"

To pass through the rocks and trees, and get as close as possible while avoiding the enemy's sight.

However, the distance of 300 meters is longer than one might think.

Chuchuchung!

"Eueuk!"

"Keuk!"

The enemy's shooting skill is far better than what Marick had thought.

Just from the gaps in their covers, the enemy was able to hit them, and unlike their own firearms, theirs could be done in succession.

They've lost seven men already, yet they barely managed to get within range for their rifles.

The distance between them and the enemy is now less than 100 meters.

"All units load!"

The soldiers, who had been prowling, raised their rifles at the same spot, having surrounded the enemy from all sides.

No matter how far the enemy's range is, or how it could be done in succession, he won't be able to shoot every soldier on all sides.

"Fire!"

Bang, Bang! Bang!

The soldiers fired at the enemy with black hair.

…Titititing!

Then, it all bounced off.

"What the…!"𝕟𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕝𝕦𝕤𝕓.𝕔𝕠𝑚

Giving them no time to panic, the enemy made a gesture of some kind.

Next, the rocky cliff that was floating above their heads exploded, sending all the soldiers below it falling.

"Damn it! The enemy had set up another artillery! Everyone stay away from the structures!"

However, will that work?

Only by being near the structures can they hide from the enemy's sight, but now they have to get away from it.

Surely there's a limit to the enemy's artillery and not every structure was set up.

Since they don't know which one is set up, they are forced into this position.

However, there was no time to waste.

Even though it's only one enemy, they were clearly at a disadvantage.

"Artillery Unit, load!"

As soon as Marick shouted, 10 soldiers appeared.

"Fire!"

Simultaneously, 10 artillery rounds were fired.

For the first time, the enemy began to move.

Pung, papapung!!

As soon as the artillery exploded, the enemy took out a small silver gun from his chest and fired it at another floating cliff.

With it, came flying blue sparks.

'That's…?'

What Seodam had fired was a 'Magnetic Grappling Gun.'

A powerful electromagnet connected to a pistol that uses a push and pull force.

Using Wind Step (D) to its full potential, Seodam ran on the side of the cliff and jumped from one to the next using his grappling gun.

Marick clenched his teeth as he took out an artillery.

The enemy is not completely vulnerable while in air.

'The timing will be right after the enemy lands on a cliff!'

Tu-tung…tu-tung!!

"That was great!"

As if Seodam couldn't avoid the artillery, Marick had successfully hit him…

When the smoke cleared, the figure revealed inside was intact without a single scratch.

'The hell…!'

A translucent coating of some kind was covering the enemy's body, and Marick, who did not know that it's an aether barrier, felt stifled.

But.

'The fact that he's avoiding the artillery means that some amount of impact can harm him. If so, this operation can succeed!'

Since then, Seodam has attacked the soldiers by either detonating the bombs he installed beforehand or scattering them in the air.

Folding their wings midair, many of them were able to avoid the bombs, which shows their physical ability would be at least E-Rank on Earth.

Because there's no way ordinary humans could have that reaction speed.

Ting, ting!

Although their firearms are definitely outdated, their shooting skill and accuracy were quite good in the air.

A bullet had scraped Seodam's body, however, he was wearing his 1st-Grade suit.

And its barrier wasn't reduced much.

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"Third Interception Squad, prepare the artillery!"

"First Subjugation Squad, take flight and block the escape routes!"

Shwah!

"…"

Quickly spreading out and flying into the sky, they began firing artillery at Seodam.

Its power was lousy, but even superhumans will suffer considerable damage if hit by those without an aether suit on.

Seodam's ability was only D-Rank, and he has no body strengthening superpowers.

However, he's fighting because he trusted his suit.

Because of the Magnetic Grappling gun in hand, Seodam's mobility was very limited, unlike the soldiers flying freely in the air who was gradually cornering him.

'Huh. These guys are pretty good?'

Seodam has almost no experience in aerial combat.

No, it could be said that he had none.

On the contrary, the soldiers seem to be masters of aerial combat.

Facing such enemies that treat their wings as an extension of their bodies, even Seodam found it difficult.

However, they still don't have any data on the weaponry Seodam possessed.

Pachichi!!

"Keuack!!"

"W-what! I definitely flew behind the rock."

They flew carefully so as to not get caught by the traps or angle of attack, but were suddenly struck by a blue electric wire between the rocks.

A magnetic line.

Installed on both sides were two electrically connected blue devices, so when three soldiers passed by, they crashed after being electrocuted.

Going between the rocks was a good way to widen the distance and avoid the explosives, but…

There were other means of attack.

The magnetic line being one of them.

'50 elite soldiers is certainly a little tough. I didn't think I'd use something this expensive.''

Indeed, these are elite aerial warfare troops, so despite having a technological advantage, it was difficult to fight them.

Using the Grappling Gun again, Seodam took off to a floating cliff behind him, then aimed his pistol.

…The soldiers had disappeared.

Perhaps each of them were hiding behind a rock or tree floating in the air and outside of his vision.

Even though there's a magnetic line, it wasn't something like an enemy alarm system.

They won't show up again until they regroup, so until then, Seodam decided to widen the distance a little bit for his rifle.

Swish!

"…!"

Suddenly.

Seodam, sensing something amiss, hurriedly activated his barrier, but instead of it being an ambush, a red liquid of some kind covered his body.

'What's this, when did it get on me?'

He thought he had confirmed all the enemies' position.

Slowly looking up, he saw something…a fish creature that looked like a dolphin tied up with a rope and two soldiers pouring out its blood.

"What's this…?"

A sticky smell of blood was covering his body.

Then, Marick shouted.

"Good job, Bike!"

Unbeknownst to Seodam, this was the crux of their operation.

The red liquid that covers his body is the blood of the 'predator of the sky's' child, and the predator is very fond of their young…

….Kuuu!!!

From somewhere, a giant horn sounded.

No, it was something of a loud wail.

And that something is a giant whale.

A whale that swims freely through the sky using its seven fins like wings.

Now such a monster was opening its muzzle with all its might towards Seodam.

Only then did Seodam grasp the situation, as he burst out laughing.

"…Wow. I see, these devilish bastards."

Those were the words spoken by the stranger with black hair.

Ugh!

[Remaining Barrier: 19.08%]

…Tuwakwong!!

Thud.

The Whirlwind Force dropped their firearms.

'The predator of the sky….killed…?'

Seeing the giant predator burst into pieces, the troops lost all their fighting spirit.

It was unbelievable.

Firearms and cannons.

Against this absolute ruler of the world, no attacks had worked.

Now, the predator of the sky had met its end….

The plan was perfect.

They had thought that if it was the predator, it would surely kill the unknown enemy.

"This doesn't make any sense…"

They had always been confident in their dominance of science and technology.

But now, after meeting an even more overwhelming and perfect science.

Their confidence was shattered.

When a soldier, who is in deep despair, was about to fall to his knees.

Someone from behind assisted him.

"D-deputy Chief Commander?"

It was Meiyan, a sharp-faced woman with brown hair.

When she saw the mysterious enemy slaughtering her allies in the distance, Meiyan became irritated.

Then, she spoke to the Chief Commander who had approached her from behind at some point.

"Chief Commander, I thought everything would go smoothly after you tricked that stupid bitch fairy…"

"…"

Meiyan paused when she saw the Chief Commander looking somewhere in the distance.

"What are you going to do now?"

Instead of answering, he pulled out a sharp longsword.

Strongest soldier on land, Chief Commander, genius inventory, great pioneer, humanity's hero, and king among men.

Hanniel Maximov.

"I will take action myself."

With 20 of his most elite soldiers, the Windfury Special Mobile Strike Force, he took the lead.

This world consists of more than 100 islands.

One of which humans originally inhabited.

Their island had good water and beautiful fertile land.

And with the development of science came better living conditions, but…

It was too successful, and as the population grew, it became a problem.

Cramped and ridiculously insufficient at accommodating the growing numbers, a new home was needed.

That's when Hanniel stepped forward.

Having developed the first flying machine and developing it to the limit to be able to travel outside their island, he finally discovered the existence of another island.

For the first time, a human being successfully flew to another island.

This other world still lived on a cramped island, and have not develop flight technology because they saw no reason to leave.

No, in the first place, their technology lagged far behind the humans.

The war of conquest was easy.

Since they've started searching for new homes, Hanniel has conquered as many as nine islands.

The conquered islands were colonized and the original inhabitants were enslaved.

Hanniel plans to turn this whole world into one that belongs to humans.

…That's the backstory and plot of this world.

#DawnFairies_Don't_Dream

Seodem looked at Hanniel, the protagonist, standing before him.

Instead of a hang glider, he was covered in strange scientific equipment, and had 20 men with him.

Simply in terms of physical ability, each was E or D Rank, while Hanniel was clearly D Rank.

Seodam glanced around.

Trees, trees, and more trees.

Blocked by obstacles everywhere, this is the worst place for aerial combat.

So Seodam has been using guerrilla warfare and retreating here, but he didn't expect them to follow him all the way here.

'In fact, that kind of person is the most difficult to deal with.'

The enemies he faced the other day somehow managed to create a situation in which he has forced the protagonist's hand.

The reason why he chose this method is because it would be a death that fits the 'flow of the plot,' as well as it being safe and inexpensive.

However, this time it was not.

There are thousands of men who swore absolute loyalty to the protagonist, so fighting the protagonist meant fighting all of them.

'But…'

How do they plan on fighting?

That question arose in his mind.

Their wings are useless here in the woods.

On the contrary, it was more advantageous for Seodam.

As if answering the question, with fine wind control, Hanniel slowly came forward.

'Oh, what is that?'

Unlike the wings worn by the others, there were two small wind ejection machines reminiscent of a rocket as well as very tiny wings hung on his sides.

Since it was impossible to fly high into the air, a new technology that enables aerial combat in this dense forest was used, called the Tornado Launcher Glider.

Seodam wasn't sure, but he somewhat knew they would have a contingency plan for fighting in forest areas.

"Surrender. Killing you would be a waste of talent."

"Oh…"

Trying to appease an enemy that has killed 200 of his men.

Well, that's the protagonist for you.

"What if I refuse?"

"Only death awaits."

Said Hanniel, taking out a heavy steel sword.

Seodam has seen something similar on Earth.

It was a saw.

However, it doesn't seem to be an ordinary saw.

It was a saw made from a special metal that could only be found here.

But, this weapon that was made by the inventor Hanniel himself, there were only 21 due to the lack of materials.

That's why only Hanniel and the 20 men of the Windfury Force have it.

Still, there's only one answer.

In the first place, the answer is fixed.

"I refuse."

"I thought that'd be the case."

Now there's no other choice but to kill or be killed.

Then, Hanniel continued.

"Is your mission to protect the Dawn Fairies' village?"

"Roughly."

"Then, it's too late. Earlier today, my contact sent me the location of the Dawn Fairies' village. While we have you occupied, 500 troops are heading there now."

Saying so, he smiled.

"All will die."

Seodam realized why Hanniel has spoken up to now.

'He must have thought to create an opening by making me restless.'

After hearing that, if Seodam's state of mind wavers, from their point of view, he will be much easier to subdue.

So once Seodam knows of their plan, he will be even more anxious.

Truly an evil plan.

However, the fact is, Seodam doesn't care whether the homes of the Dawn Fairies collapse or not.

'The same old trick.'

Though, Seodam still felt quite burdened having to deal with the E-D Ranks who could fly perfectly.

Because there's no law stating Hanniel has to fight alone.

He began to think.

Hanniel has now conquered 9 islands.

Although there are about 90 islands left to his goal, the theme of this world is 'Dawn Fairy.'

A human conqueror protagonist, and Dream Island, one of the many islands.

Why was this place the center of the plot?

Thinking up to here, Seodam recalls the 'forbidden love' hashtag.

Perhaps Hanniel is having an affair with someone from Dream Island.

Their technology alone shouldn't have been able to find the hiding spots of the Dawn Fairies.

In other words, Hanniel fell in love with someone he plans on invading.

It was possible to speculate that much.

He doesn't know who it is, but…

It's not a big problem.

"Hanniel."

"…You know my name?"

"Of course. I've heard a lot about you. From 'her."'

The word 'her' was just a guess.

He has no idea whether Hanniel was in love with a man or woman.

However, as if his rough guess was correct, Hanniel flinched.

"Right…What did she say about me?"

"We talked a lot. She's been a friend of mine since we were kids. She always spoke of your dream. About a wild dream of you wanting to get your hands on the whole world."

"…"

Actually, the Client had told him the backstory, but he didn't know exactly what stage Hanniel and 'her' plot are at, so he was walking on a tightrope.

Because if Hanniel says 'I've never told that story,' his lie would be discovered.

"She really loves you from the bottom of her heart. I tried to stop her. The man is using you. He's trampling on your dreams and using it as a stepping stone for his dream. But she didn't believe it. In the end, she still trusted you. That's why I came alone to fight without telling the Dawn Fairies. To protect that child's dream."

Seodam continued.

"As a result, she trusted you till the end but you betrayed her."

When he finished speaking, contrary to being agitated.

"…How about you?"

Asked Hanniel with a stiff expression.

Seodam was slightly flustered here.

He didn't think Hanniel would be so calm.

"Me, until the last moment…I believed it. It sounded nice."

Their first meeting was a coincidence.

Suddenly, Hanniel recalls the first time he saw Sarilyn's smile.

Bathed in moonlight, a beautiful smile.

She had many dreams.

Like him, she dreamed of a broader world.

But unlike him, she wanted to travel the world, not conquer it.

So Hanniel showed her the reality of the world.

That it isn't such a romantic place.

Only when it's dyed with blood, will a peaceful world come.

Soon, Dream Island will be like that too, he said.

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Hanniel had deceived Sarilyn.

'So that the Dawn Fairies can be protected, we're going to protect them.'

'But, the fairies are conservative. They call you devils. They'll never accept humans.'

'If so, we'll use a little bit of force. Even if we go too far, eventually, we'll subdue the Dawn Fairies and force them under our protection.'

In the end.

'Tell me where the Dawn Fairies live.'

She was used.

Having lost her worth, he had ordered the Deputy Commander to kill them all.

"…At one point. It's true that I had feelings for her."

"…"

"But, that was then. I just reflected on that fact when I set out today to kill you."

'This…'

Seodam burst out laughing.

If the development had followed the original plot, Hanniel would have fallen in love with a Dawn Fairy.

Perhaps he would have given up the dream of conquest, either way, that would have been the ending.

But by interfering, the direction of the plot has changed.

Thinking that he should conquer the Dawn Fairies as soon as possible, Hanniel's love for the woman never had time to grow.

'Maybe this is for the better.'

Wouldn't a love made through deceit be better than falling in love with a woman of the tribe he slaughters?

If so, an obvious development would have happened.

'I'm sorry I secretly murdered your people.'

Then, when Hanniel inevitably cries and beg, the woman who is moved by his action will not even think twice about her people's deaths.

'No. I forgive you for everything. I love you.'

That's what she would say.

It's ridiculous if you think about it.

Is an apology going to bring back the dead?

Thinking so, Seodam drew his aether blade.

"Is that the weapon you are most confident in?"

The saw, a weapon that maximizes destructive power by rotating.

However, it could be said that the 'Aether Blade' is the final evolution of the saw.

"So. It's a sword? It's stupidly simple."

Hanniel was arrogant.

He did not put his focus on rifles and cannons because he thought it was enough against other species.

But the saw was different.

It was his greatest achievement since it was a secret weapon made using all the science and materials at his disposal.

"…You're right."

Seodam pressed a button on the aether blade and it activated.

Then, with a burst of strong energy, a glow emitted from all sides.

"…Wh..at…?"

Truly a sad protagonist.

If not for being the 'protagonist,' he might have become the best inventor in the world.

If not for the clumsy desire to conquer.

If only, how great it would have been.

Seodam has no intention of flaunting his own scientific weapons.

After all, he didn't create it himself, while the enemy had created one on his own.

Just, born in the wrong world in the wrong era with the wrong fate.

Even though he's a genius, nevertheless, to Seodam, he has to die.

Tat!

Seodam lept with ease, then heavily swung his aether blade.

A single simple swing!

Hanniel lifted his saw to block it…

…Swaah!

His greatest invention was futility cut in half.

Whi-iing!!

"Eueuk…!"

The youngest princess, Sarilyn, with all her might, called upon the forces of nature.

Although she's a genius and could use the power of spirits even without the spirit inheritance, there was a limit to it.

She was pushed back when the 'spirit' really began using its power.

'What the hell…!'

It was the strange flower.

The flower that appeared with the existence called Guide.

Sarilyn recognizes the flower.

In a very distant past, when the world was stained with blood by war.

A flower bloomed.

In other words, the truth is, it's a 'primal spirit' born from death.

The silver flower, as if singing, controlled the wind to dance.

But, to Sarilyn it was like a storm, as it squeezed her body.

Water, Fire, Wind, Electricity, Soil.

No spirits could go against it.

'The spirits shouldn't hate me…!'

Innately, all spirits loved her.

It watched over her and never refused her requests.

"Stop…it…!"

[I can't…]

However, this spirit did not listen to her.

[Well, the witch hates…]

After saying that strange remark.

[Silver Spiritual Flower linked to Yoo Seodam.]

[…Synchronization check.]

[Silver Spiritual Flower linked to White Witch's Library (F).]

Suddenly, on top of the pure white flower, a little girl bloomed.

Next, the spirit that was swaying above the beautiful silver flower turned its palms toward Sarilyn.

A deformed picture appears in the air and squarely hits Sarilyn.

Boom!

"Ahuek!"

Sarilyn, who was hit by a huge hammer-like wind, was knocked out of the room, smashing the wooden door in the process.

They were on the tallest tree and she almost fell, but the tree did not save her.

Quickly hanging onto a branch, Sarilyn gracefully landed on the ground.

Having watched what happened, Marilyn shakily stood up and hugged the flowerpot into her arms.

A little girl had grown on top of the flower.

She has never seen a spirit with this form before.

'We have to go after her.'

She was now having strange ideas.

The devils, she couldn't believe it.

They were evil, cunning, and cruel.

And by no means are they trustworthy.

Because of the gas, Marilyn found it hard to move her body, nonetheless, she hurried down to persuade her sister.

…However, it was too late.

"Big sister. I guess I couldn't beat the power of inheritance even with my talent…But, if the power of spirits won't do. What if I borrow the devil's power, would that work?"

"…!"

Suddenly, covering the sky was hundreds of shadows.

Users of wind and gunpowder, the devils.

Now, they've arrived here.

"Ah, ah…"

As Marilyn swayed, she collapsed to the ground.

One by one, the devils landed in their village, and the Dawn Fairies, who were in a disarray, began running in all directions.

Sarilyn, maintaining as much of a gentle look as possible, spoke to Marilyn.

"Big sister. Don't worry. They're going to protect us-"

…Bang!

"…Huh?"

Feeling something foreign in her stomach, Sarilyn stopped.

"Blood…?"

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A beautiful violet liquid.

The blood of a Dawn Fairy.

Why?

As soon as she had such a thought, her legs felt weak and she collapsed.

Immediately, seeing her sister falling, Marilyn tearfully screamed.

"Ah, no way…!!"

Then, the person who shot her in the stomach approached, and spoke.

"Don't move. If any bugs are caught moving, I'll shoot them all like your princess here."

It was Meiyan, Deputy Commander of the human troops.

Immediately, the Dawn Fairies gave up running away.

The devils with wings already have them surrounded.

The children fairies struggled to hold back their tears and the adults fairies endured the humiliation.

Meiyan laughed at the sight of Marilyn crawling towards the fallen Sarilyn.

"I can't believe it. Did you really fall for the Commander's words?"

"Ah, aeuk."

Sarilyn slowly raised her head.

A woman with brown hair was looking down at her in disgust.

"You should know your place as a savage tribe. I'm so proud of my fiancée who has been associating with a filthy race like yours all this time."

"…F-fiancée?"

"Yes. Hanniel Maximov. We promised to marry each other. It has long been decided by our family. Do you understand? How dare you think you're his match."

With trembling eyes, Sarilyn spoke to Meiyan.

"I don't believe it. He definitely loves me…"

"So. Everything was a lie. You still don't understand? Stupid thing."

Meiyan approached Sarilyn, placed her gun to Sarilyn's forehead, and pushed hard.

"Filthy savage tribe. You should know your place."

"Eueuk!"

It hurts.

Really, the pain was terrible.

A pain she has never felt in her life before.

The pain that was spreading from her abandonment?

No, not that.

The pain of a broken heart after being betrayed by the one you loved, it was too painful.

Sarilyn heaved and groaned in pain as she shed tears at the unbelievable reality.

Then, the flower spoke.

[Do you want…help?]

'Huh?'

It wasn't directed at the second princess.

The flower was speaking to Marilyn, who was losing consciousness from her wound.

She couldn't understand why the flower said it would help her.

However, there's no way now.

'Help me. Please.'

[…Mhm.]𝕟𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕝𝕦𝕤𝕓.𝕔𝕠𝚖

Immediately, Sarilyn felt a cool and refreshing air surrounding her.

The pain was slightly gone, and she could clearly feel the power of wind.

This was the silver spirit's power.

Basking in the energy, Sarilyn slowly opened her mouth.

"Really. The Chief Commander…did he order you to kill me?"

"Yeah."

"The Chief Commander really…from the beginning didn't even think of me?"

"Of course. Such the likes of you-"

Meiyan, who had an irritated look, stopped talking when she felt herself suffocating.

"…How arrogant."

"W-what…keuek!"

Slowly standing up.

Sarilyn grabbed Meiyan's gun, then aimed it at her head.

"Here is…the center of Dream Island. Nature is within the grasp of us Dawn Fairies. Like the bullets you're so proud of, I can make as much as I want in a breath."

Chikchik!

She has never used a gun before, but she knows how to load it from watching someone she once loved do it.

Struggling to overcome the pain in her abdomen, she struck Meiyan's head!

Then, after having knocked Meiyan to the ground, she pointed her gun at Meiyan.

"W-what…"

"Deputy Commander…!!"

The human soldiers were taken aback.

This is enough.

Meiyan, a master hand-to-hand combatant, unable to resist such a weak girl, was grabbing the ground and struggling to breath.

'Luckily, it seems like it worked…'

Sarilyn has a talent for spirits, but she didn't have the inheritance, so her output was limited, and thus her destructive power was limited, making it impossible for her to beat the silver spiritual flower.

However, nevertheless, her outstanding talent is better than anyone else.

If Seodam saw it, he would've given it a couple of S's.

And now with the silver spirit power…

It's possible for her to control the wind to its limit and suffocate someone.

"…Do I look like a little kid who would sit and cry after a heartbreak?"

"Ukuek, kohkeuk…"

"…I have a dream. To never stop moving forward. Such a dream…"

Sarilyn's complexion was white as a sheet, but with an indomitable will, she held on.

She had brought it upon herself.

And, the only person who can resolve this situation is her, the one who can control the power of spirits.

Therefore, she must not fall.

So, she shouted with all her strength.

"Everyone, get down on your knees! Put your weapons on the ground…Then, steadily raise your hands above your heads."

When the soldiers hesitated, Sarilyn shot Meiyan in the shoulder.

Bang!

As the gunshot reverberated in their ears, only then did the soldiers realize the seriousness of the situation, and thus, one by one, they dropped their weapons.

"You, think…this…is of any use….huh?"

Despite having her lungs squeezed, Meiyan spoke to Sarilyn.

"Soon…he will come."

The Chief Commander.

Coming here.

Perhaps, Sarilyn will have to fight him.

Because the man isn't sentimental enough to care about Meiyan being held hostage.

"Yes, I know."

From here on out, she must fight an even more dangerous, cruel, cunning, and powerful enemy.

When she thought about it rationally, it was absolutely impossible.

To fight that monstrous man, how many more must be sacrificed.

'…The fairies will be defeated.'

The future is fixed.

From the moment she was deceived, everyone's death, including hers, was a forgone conclusion.

The fact made her regretful and anguished.

She felt like she would shed tears of blood at any moment now, but endured it.

Whi-iing!!

From somewhere, the wind was blowing.

Someone's coming.

Sarilyn aimed her gun at that spot, thinking that even if she dies today, to the man who betrayed her, she's going to struggle till the end.

…Boom!

From the sky, something fell.

"…Huh?"

It was unmistakable Hanniel.

Just, his body was covered in wounds and it looked like he was on the verge of death.

"This…What the hell…?"

When Sarilyn raised such a question, a voice came from behind.

"I forgot the flowerpot, so I brought you a hostage to use as a bargaining chip. I guess that wasn't necessary."

"…!"

Hurriedly turning her head, she saw a man carefully hugging the flowerpot that was in Marilyn's arms.

Looking at his back and seeing him carefully dusting off the sand on the flowerpot, Sarilyn's tension eased as she collapsed on the spot.

"Ha, haha. Ha…"

Somehow, it was a really, really long day.

[You've successfully hunted a Level 61 protagonist.]

[Your Level has risen by 3.]

[610 days of lifespan will be rewarded.]

[Remaining Lifespan: 4022 Days, 17 hours, 11 minutes.]

Hanniel died of natural causes.

…Well, not really.

After he was half beaten to death by Seodam, he was dropped from the sky to his death.

Killing people, Seodam is not one to do it cruelly, but it couldn't be helped..

Hanniel's men had the Dawn Fairies surrounded.

Seodam of course didn't do it out of his fondness for the Dawn Fairies.

Although he's human and has emotions, he did it to save the flowerpot.

[Having hunted seven protagonists, Protagonist Hunter has risen to Lv. 3.]

[Carrying weight limit of items to other worlds increased to 40kg.]

[You can now grasp the plot of other worlds.]

[You can now interfere with the protagonist's narrative and timeline.]

While looking at the messages that appeared, Seodam had a strange feeling.

It's only been some time since he received the murder contract, so he can't beleive that he has already completed 7 missions.

"Timeline? Narrative? What are you saying?"

You can interfere at the point of changes that have a profound effect on the plot.

"…What are you talking about, I don't understand?"

Seodam gave a defeated laugh.

Sometimes, he feels like the Client is purposely explaining things cryptically.

I don't understand it at all, but I'm completely satisfied with the fact that my weight limit has increased to 40kg.

In addition to my inventory, I can now carry fairly heavy items.

'Won't I be able to at least carry around a small aether blaster now?'

Its bullets are heavy, so I'm certain I'll only be able to use it once or twice.

Eventually, a message appears asking if I want to absorb an ability or not.

[Skill Leave Body To The Wind (B) has been absorbed.]

"Oh. B-Rank…"

While admiring the pretty good skill I just absorbed.

[Skills Leave Body To The Wind (B) and Wind Step (D) have successfully resonated.]

[The above skills will be erased, and How To Run Like The Wind (A) will be created.]

[Do you accept?]

…Another message appeared.

"This…Definitely accept."

[Skill How To Run Like The Wind (A) has been created.]

Immediately, Seodam felt his body lightened.

He could also feel the surrounding cool breeze as if it was each individual one.

This is indeed an A-Rank skill.

All Wind Step did was push the body slightly using the wind.

Though, even that was quite effective since it allowed Seodam to easily outrun a beast, and now…as if…

'At this rate, won't I really be able to fly?'

Therefore.

I tried sprinting into the air, but it was not possible to fly.

I can only do an incredibly high jump.

Also, with this skill and my 45 points of agility, the speed of my running has increased significantly.

"Status Window."

As expected, I'm quite satisfied with the level of my abilities.

Except for mana, none of my other attributes caught up to my level until now, with agility being another one.

It seems to be the effect of the skill.

The A-Rank skill did not allow me to control the wind, rather, it just lets me ride along the wind.

As such, the effect might as well be a passive skill.

And to be honest, my sprinting speed is now similar to a decent car at full speed.

So, I thought.

'I'm really superhuman now.'

I wanted to swing my sword here, but doing so would destroy nature.

With the death of Hanniel and defeat of the human army, there's no reason to harm nature anymore.

After lightly running back to the Dawn Fairies' village, I saw the Dawn Fairies huddled together doing something.

In the center was a woman.

The youngest princess, Sarilyn.

I heard that little girl, who's about to turn 20, had a secret affair with Hanniel.

After everything ended, I thought the Dawn Fairies would be angry at her, but that didn't happen.

They just passed Sarilyn, patting her shoulder.

Every time it happened, Sarilyn would flinch and tremble.

"Live a life of atonement from now on. We forgive you. Truly."

"Uh, really?

The second princess, Marilyn, approached Seodam, then spoke while petting the flower.

"This way is much more painful. How many Dawn Fairies have suffered, how many have died, and how many trees have cried because of her…If everyone forgives her so easily, it will be much harder for her to forgive herself."

"…Is that so?"

Well, I don't know.

[Sleepy…]

The flower looks different than before.

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On top of the petals was a little girl sticking out of nowhere, and her body, as if made from specks of light, was connected to the flower, making it seem inseparable.

Also, oddly enough, because the flower is linked to Seodam, it can use White Witch's library.

Although the mana it requires puts a lot of stress on Seodam, the ability to use magic without having to concentrate is tremendously beneficial.

And, doesn't it have the ability to control nature itself?

He has spent a lot of money here, but not only did he gain an A-Rank skill, the spirit had even blossomed, so Seodam smiled from ear to ear.

"Have you gotten enough rest now?"

[Yes…]

"What do you think? You think you can survive back on Earth?"

For a moment, she closed her eyes and basked in the energy of this place, then finally spoke.

[Yes…I don't need the soil or air here anymore…]

In other words, it means Seodam doesn't have to worry about her suddenly dying.

"Then, let's head back."

Said Seodam.

While saying so, the approaching Sarilyn looked at him with round eyes.

It seems that all the strange rituals that took place between the Dawn Fairies have ended.

Her gunshot wound in the abdomen has almost healed as well.

Not by her own abilities, but with the help of the flower.

To get rid of the bullet, the flower had learned magic from the White Witch's library that even Seodam couldn't, and a total of seven magic were simultaneously used to stop the bleeding and heal the wound.

While doing so, his mana was exhausted, and frankly, he was really impressed with her control.

With some hesitation, Sarilyn asked Seodam.

"…Are you leaving now?"

"I have to."

"To where?"

"My home."

Perhaps such a place, she can't even begin to imagine what kind of place it is.

A terrible place she doesn't know.

"Is…that so."

And then.

Sarilyn bowed her head to Seodam, then after a while, lifted it and spoke.

"Truly, thank you."

There were many things she wanted to say.

'If it weren't for you, I wouldn't have the chance to atone…'

'Condemned by mother nature and returning to her embrace…'

'All the Dawn Fairies that have died…'

But Sarilyn omitted all the backstabbing.

Because such words are useless.

In the past, she had tried to understand other people's hearts through conversations.

And Sarilyn who tried to express her feelings through words, realized something, albeit late.

When it comes to expressing one's true feelings, the truth is, it's more effective to be sincere.

Marilyn also bowed to Seodam.

All the Dawn Fairies who were gathered here bowed their heads to Seodam.

He momentarily looked at them, then walked somewhere.

Unknowingly to Seodam, it was in the direction of the Twilight Tree where he had first appeared.

Walking towards it, he spoke.

"I'm leaving. Take care."

Saying so, his figure disappeared like a mirage.

Sarilyn turned her head towards her sister, and spoke.

"Big sister. We have to be ready from now on."

"…Yes."

They were not devils.

Just, different and more advanced than them.

They are among the over 100 tribes.

"Someday…They'll come again."

"I know."

"And, I've realized how we can prepare ourselves."

Sarilyn opened her palms.

The fallen leaves simply seem to be shaking, and Marilyn, who has inherited the power of spirits, could sense the skill Sarilyn was showing.

"You, that's…?"

Until now, the Silver Spiritual Flower brought here by the spirit guide had given the spirits living on Dream Island 'lessons.'

That's not how you do it.

That's how you do it.

Spirits are inherently pure and curious beings.

They accepted all the lessons, and in the end, it's now possible to control nature in different ways than before.

And, the youngest princess, Sarilyn, was personally showing it herself.

"I no longer need to rely on anyone."

With a firm expression, Sarilyn turned around and looked at the Dawn Fairies.

A Dawn Fairy who once dreamed.

The dream of leaving Dream Island and traveling the world.

But, the fairy no longer dream.

To atone for her sin.

To protect everyone with her own strength.

[Returning to your original world.]

[Time has returned to normal.]

Opening my eyes, the familiar apartment greeted me.

I've since adapted to this situation, which has become a normal occurrence.

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Clasping my hands, I took off all my equipment and threw it into my inventory.

This mission was a significant financial loss.

I had used up all my explosives.

But, to be honest…

I wonder if I even need to carry around explosives anymore.

Explosives are of course still useful in other worlds.

However, when hunting on Earth, my swordsmanship and speed imbued with mana will be more effective than explosives.

Plopping down on a chair, I immediately took out my phone.

After changing the 'Away' status in my messenger, I checked the news.

I spent a little over three days over there, and since the time dilation was almost twice as fast, it's been two days.

I contacted Taylor first, then the master swordsmen one by one.

Since some haven't seen my status message, as well as there were those who asked me to contact them as soon as I returned.

I intend to select a few master swordsmen from these.

The criteria for selection are simple; someone I can trust, and is worth nurturing.

If I spread the knowledge I have, even an ordinary person could exhibit superhuman power.

'By the way, I'm telling you, if you recklessly teach these powers, dimensional returnees will come after you.'

This part was quite troublesome.

Dimensional returnee.

What the hell happened between the dimensional returnees for there to be a rule of not allowing the spread of their skills to the outside world?

Although I'm not a dimensional returnee, my skills resemble their wugong, so I have to be careful as to not get on their radar.

Whether it's Jian Ji or the Supremes.

Judging by the fact that such nicknames only appear in martial art novels, maybe they're posturing.

For now, I need to find the most influential dimensional returnee.

'I can be a little bit confident now.'

I've been playing it safe as much as possible.

An ordinary person suddenly gaining superpower will be put in the spotlight.

Just look at the case with Lee Yeonjun.

Once an ordinary, didn't he receive the whole world's attention after he awakened as a C-Rank superhuman?

It'll be the same for me, who has been ordinary for 15 years, if I suddenly show my powers.

And…

Garnering such attention, there is no way it'll end well for me.

People who want my secret.

People who want to pry it from me.

People who are politically motivated or want to use me for their business, and before I know it, I'm dead.

'For now…I'll contact the dimensional returnee I met last time.'

Thinking so, I turned on my messenger again when I saw a floating announcement on the main screen.

There, words more eye catching than wanting to call a dimensional returnee.

"Great Rift?"

Come to think of it, the timing is about right.

Great Rift.

Jokingly called an annual event by hunters, this strange phenomenon, which appears once every two to three years, is seemingly a combination of a dungeon and gate.

Also, every Great Rift so far had an energy output identical to SS-Rank, which was characterized by the sheer volume of monsters inside.

I was involved in a few Great Rifts 10 years ago before the hunter system was firmly established, however, that's no longer the case.

Nowadays it's mostly A and S rank superhumans entering Great Rifts.

Slowly reading the announcement, a message appeared.

It was from Lee Junseok, a S-Rank hunter who was strangely cordial towards me the other day at the swordsmanship debate.

[Lee Junseok: Sir, hunter Yoo Seodam, are you well?]

[Lee Junseok: I see that you're back.]

It hasn't even been five minutes since I changed my messenger's status.

You noticed too quickly.

[Yoo Seodam: Yes, I just came back.]

[Lee Junseok: I see.]

[Lee Junseok: Sir, if you don't mind, may I speak to you now?]

Seeing that there was nothing wrong with it, I agreed, then my phone immediately rang.

"Hello."

[Hello, hunter Yoo Seodam, sir. Have you seen the announcement?]

"Great Rift?"

[Yes. The Seer prophesied that a week later a Great Rift would appear.]

Unlike last time when he spun his words, he got straight to the point this time.

[The Seer said the name of the Great Rift is 'Tempest at the Cliff's Crossroad.' Frankly, isn't it a poetic name?]

"No, uh. It sounds like something from a Korean middle school textbook."

Actually, I slept in language class.

[Hahaha. Anyways, 12 teams have been selected to enter the Great Rift this time. Team 1 through 12. I've been assigned as team leader of team 7. And…there's an empty spot left.]

"Mhm."

Unless you're a fool, anyone would have noticed it.

This, he's asking me to join the 7th team for the Great Rift.

Empty spot.

It's a good excuse.𝕟𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕝𝕦𝕤𝕓.𝕔𝕠𝓶

Did he leave it for me?

Or was it empty and he just thought of me?

I don't know.

Yeah, I don't know, but in any case, it's a good thing for me.

Unlike other anomalies, the casualties of Great Rifts are quite high, but…

In the first place, as a F-Rank hunter, there was never a time I wasn't at the risk of dying.

Also, there's a good deal of money to be made from Great Rifts.

Therefore, when I was about to agree.

[So because of that…if you're free, can you take my place as team leader of Team 7, sir hunter Yoo Seodam?]

"…Say what?"

No, what's wrong with this fellow's beliefs?

"You son of a bitch, are you out of your mind?!"

A storm was brewing on the 47th floor in the S-Rank hunters break room of the Velvet Guild's headquarters in Yeouido.

The vice guild master, Oh Hyunjung, personally came and shouted.

Avoiding her gaze, the S-Rank hunters inside got up from their seat and left.

However, from beginning to end, Lee Junseok remained seated, chewing on potato chips.

Red pepper paste bulgogi flavored potato chips that looked very spicy and delicious.

"Crazy bitch…You, do you know how hard it was for me to get the commander position for the Great Rift this time?"

Oh Hyunjung.

A retired hunter who awakened one of the rarest superpowers called psychokinesis, but has since peaked at C-Rank due to her limited talent.

However, because of her political and business skills, she rose to the position of Velvet's vice guild master.

As such, her words held a lot of weight within the guild…

"I really don't think it'll be much of a problem."

Actually, Lee Junseok had even gotten a call from the Hunter Association in Korea specifically asking if he wanted to lead one of the teams inside the Great Rift.

He was one of Korea's strongest, and 'deservingly' ranks in the top 100 within the hunter community rankings and achievements.

But he had refused to be commander.

Simply because the position does not suit him.

Lee Junseok knows he's strong, but he also understands what's good for him.

Just because he's a S-Rank superhuman, is his ability to lead also S-Rank?

It's not.

Lee Junseok's superpower requires a great deal of concentration, so he can't afford to look after others.

No, even listening to someone's order at times can cause him mental exhaustion…

What commander.

It sounds absurd, but what the public wants is a capable, famous, and experienced hunter to lead.

So selling that point, Oh Hyunjung had managed to get a commander slot for Lee Junseok.

"Are you joking? Who's the one that brought you up to your current position!"

"My current position is through my own efforts. You just zealously sold my name. You made me famous, which was nice of you. It became easier to approach someone when returning a favor."

"That's ridiculous…What the hell is wrong with you?"

"And besides, I said I didn't want to be commander, so why did you go and do that?"

"Isn't that obvious? For you-"

"No, not for me, but for you."

He coldly looked at Oh Hyunjung in the eyes.

It was inevitable that hunters have become 'products' in today's world.

However, the Velvet guild has gone too far.

Hunters are not circus monkeys who only hunted monsters and did tricks with superpowers.

Thanks to Oh Hyunjung's business skills, there are quite a few famous hunters in the Velvet guild, but that's all.

Any one of them would die within a few days if left on a 'real' battlefield.

In other words, among the S-Rank hunters in the guild, Lee Junseok is the only one who has survived on a 'real' battlefield and can contend against something like the Great Rift.

Give the commander position to someone else?

Oh Hyunjun can't even if she wanted to, so she had no choice but to nominate Lee Junseok, the most rebellious member in the guild.

"…Yeah. Do whatever you want. I don't know anymore. I'll report it to the guild master."

"Of course."

After Oh Hyunjung left while slamming the door behind her, Lee Junseok put down the potato chip bag.

In any case, it's already a fallen guild he has grown sick of.

Not just the vice guild master, even the guild master had left the battlefield since five years ago.

Even on that day five years ago, dozens of S-Rank hunters were being commercialized on tv.

The guild has become unsuited for Lee Junseok, a person who has survived on a real battlefield.

Just, he had nowhere to go, so he's staying for the time being.

Lost in his thoughts, someone knocked.

"Come in."

It was Ahn Heejung.

A person who had awakened a very rare A-Rank flame superpower.

Lee Junseok believes with her great ambition, she will become a big hunter in the future.

She too, ended up in the wrong guild.

Obviously, it's only a matter of time before Ahn Heejung's reputation soars.

However, her talent will be reduced to an expendable circus act.

With a stiff expression, she looked at Lee Junseok's face for a while, then spoke.

"Senior."

"Yes. Go ahead."

Said Lee Junseok with a gentle smile, then Ahn Heejung breathed a sigh of relief.

The cold and indifferent face from the other day at the swordsmanship debate felt surreal.

"It was ignorant of me."

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"Well. If you've understood why…"

"No. I don't, senior."

"Huh?"

As Lee Junseok looked at Ahn Heejung wondering what she's talking about, with a firm expression, she spoke.

"But, I've always trusted in your judgement."

It's…

Simply, Ahn Heejung had a feeling, one that all humans have.

'Ah, this path, I'll succeed if I take it.'

Wishing for success, wanting to be famous, or being above others in the future.

A sense of ambition.

Thinking about it logically, if you really want to succeed, the normal path would be to join a guild that's already in the ranks of a large corporation.

And in fact, the Velvet guild is a solid path, one which has already extended out into the world.

Frankly, when she thought about it rationally, it made no sense.

And while acting on her instincts, she still felt confused.𝕟𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕝𝕦𝕤𝕓.𝕔𝕠𝑀

'What's happening to me? Am I really crazy? Just play it safe and don't do anything…!'

Contrary to what she thought, her mouth spoke differently.

"I'm sure there will be many team members who will be against your decision. So, I'll give you my support…To be honest, I still don't believe in that F-Rank hunter. But I'll trust in my senior who believes in such a hunter."

"…I see."

For a long time, Lee Junseok stared at Ahn Heejung.

Then, he soon smiled.

"Heejung."

"What?"

"Thank you."

At the remark, Ahn Heejung muttered.

"I'm not doing this for senior's sake…"

Cheorwon Gangwon Province, the site where the Great Rift was scheduled to appear, has already been thoroughly prepared since a week ago by the military.

Since the emergence of superhumans, the military hierarchy has changed dramatically, with most higher ups being replaced by superhumans.

Although a superhuman's rank did not correlate to their military rank, it's only natural that higher ranked superhumans are able to climb higher in the military.

For that reason, there were two military teams with superpowers dispatched to this Great Rift, 100 from the National Anomalies Suppression Unit and 50 from the Hunter Association, then the remaining teams were made up of hunters from individual guilds.

Although the Great Rift is in Korea, competition for the rights to enter was fierce, thus, each of the nine teams consisted of hunters from different guilds.

Having different guild members within a team did not cause internal strife.

Because in the past there were several times such strife happened and it wiped out an entire team.

'This is awkward.'

Seodam slowly looked around at the 49 pairs of eyes staring at him.

The tablet in his hand summarized their affiliated guild, superpower, rank, and experience.

If Seodam had belonged to a guild, knew a few acquaintances, or had some kind of background at all, he wouldn't be dealing with this troublesome situation.

There were hostile looks from all directions.

And it wasn't just from his own team.

Other teams were also looking at Seodam with hostility.

"I heard the commander of Team 7 over there is F-Rank?"

"Does that make sense?"

"This is a Great Rift."

"Tut-tut. In the past, every F-Rank hunter who had gone into a Great Rift was completely wiped out, so why choose to do this as if you didn't know?"

Seodam bitterly smiled.

In fact, F-Rank hunters have tried several times to subdue a Great Rift, but for the most part, it ended in failure.

…There are reasons for that, but excuses are meaningless.

Only the fact that they failed in the end mattered.

And, perhaps Lee Junseok had already expected such a situation.

People didn't trust in a commander who is F-Rank, so why not publicly show their strategy and judgement skills?

Although they don't have superpowers, they're still as strong as ever!

Lee Junseok wanted to let the world know that fact.

That's why Lee Junseok and Ahn Heejung were persuading Team 7 now.

"He's a worthy commander with good judgement. Unlike me, who has no choice but to concentrate in a fight…"

"I want a commander who can personally lead in the frontline!"

"That kind of commander is of course nice, but he'll be able to lead our troops more efficiently from the rear…!"

Seeing the man and woman desperately trying to persuade others, Seodam somehow broke out a smile.

Actually, Seodam has no intention of going along with what Lee Junseok wanted.

The judgement, strategy, and know-how of an ordinary person is still useful in this world?

Something like that doesn't need to be proven.

At best, it'll get him a job as a teacher or writing textbooks.

'Of course it's important.'

However, that's all.

Even if it's useful, F-Rank is F-Rank.

So for this Great Rift, Seodam plans to prove that even ordinary people can become strong through 'latent power' and not 'superpowers.'

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Superpower and latent power.

In a way, it seems comical, but in fact, there is a clear distinction between the two.

Scientifically proven, superpowers are gained genetically through aether absorption.

On the other hand, to this day, not much is known about 'latent power' other than that it occurs naturally.

Since 99.99% of the world's hunters are superhumans, practically nothing is known about 'latent power.'

Thus, with his swordsmanship and magic 'latent power,' Seodam intends to turn it into something for those without superpowers.

'In order to do that…I'll have to put in more effort."

So far, he's only been able to use up to D-Rank magic with the help of the spirit's magic.

Though, he wasn't going to reveal his proficiency in magic.

He'll have to fight with his life on the line to stand out among the A and S ranks superhumans gathered here.

That's why, to the 49 teammates who were waiting for Seodam, he spoke for the first time.

"Everyone."

"…!"

49 pairs of eyes took notice.

"I intend to fight in the frontline."

"…What?"

Commanders are obligated to lead the fight.

"Just because I'm F-Rank, I have no intentions of abandoning my duty."

Rather, this was an opportunity.

The opportunity to gain more meritorious services than others.

"I know saying it is meaningless. That's why, I will put my words into action in front of all of you."

Ending his sentence, he slowly turned around.

In front of him is the Great Rift, a 15 stories high giant red tear stretching from the ground up to the sky.

As one team after another entered the Great Rift, Seodam also strode forward.

While Team 7 were looking at one another, Lee Junseok and Ahn Heejung had no choice but to follow Seodam, thus forcing the rest of the team to follow.

Nonetheless, he was the commander and would fight on the frontline, so there's nothing they could do.

Seeing that all his team members were following behind, Seodam entered the Great Rift.

Whi-iing!!

"…!"

Due to the sudden coarse storm, he slightly closed his eyes then opened them.

The entire world was red and full of upside down red cliffs.

And as if it's a prank, there was something very large and bumpy rising from the red ground.

[Skill How To Run Like The Wind (A) has activated.]

Although the storm is rough, it wasn't enough to shake or blow his body away.

One way or the other, it's possible to move without hindrance.

'Well, I'm glad I can hold on.'

Slowly looking around inside the Great Rift, the Client spoke.

This world is a portion of 'Fallen Red Giant's Honorable King.'

'Fallen, what?'

It means a world that has already collapsed.

'Like before?'

That's correct.

At a glance, something seemed to have fallen.

This is Red Stormy Cliff, a place the giants came for their trials before the world collapsed.

'Oh. How do you know that?'

Because Protagonist Hunter is now level 3, even if the world has collapsed, we can sense the 'plot.'

'Oh? Hey, then…'

Seodam saw as many as 12 huge red canyons.

Each grand canyon, the size of a hill, meant one for each team.

'…Do you know what's going on here?'

I don't know the full details, just bits and pieces.

Hearing her words, Seodam clenched his fists.

To know and prepare for the upcoming challenges.

Seodam knew very well how much it could increase their survival rate.

With a jubilant look on his face, he turned around to look at his team members.

"Everyone, from now on…eh?"

Only now could Seodam make out the outlines of his teammates.

They were all crouching down and holding their bodies, which looked quite ridiculous.

"…What is this?"

Asked Seodam.

Lee Junseok, who was in somewhat of a good condition, puzzling asked back.

"Sir hunter Yoo Seodam…aren't you affected by this storm?"

Only then did Seodam look at his surroundings.

Seeing it now, not only Team 7, but all 12 teams are swept up in the storm, unable to move?

'Huh, crazy.'

His skill allows him to blend into the wind, so he naturally didn't realize it until now.

This storm is one of the hurdles blocking this Great Rift attack.