Round 70

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A few days after contacting Kyu-seong, Seon-ah was sitting in a school café with her team members.

Thanks to Kyu-seong’s positive response, the interview would proceed without any issues.

“Hey, did you hear? Jae-seong’s team got an interview with Hanbyul Yu.”

“Wow, that’s amazing. How did they manage that? Did they contact the guild?”

“They probably had connections. No way would Oseong Guild agree to an interview just for a college project.”

Hearing the chatter, Seon-ah began to feel a creeping sense of anxiety. When she asked Kyu-seong for help, she felt resigned to whatever would happen, but now that the moment was here, she was getting nervous.

‘Well, at least my brother is from Ara Hongryeon Guild…’

While he wasn’t as famous as Hanbyul Yu, the guild he belonged to, Ara Hongryeon, had a much higher prestige.

Trying to think positively, she checked the time and saw that the meeting time was approaching.

At that moment, the café suddenly became noisy.

“What’s going on? Why is it so loud?”

“Looks like someone is outside. Who is it?”

Following their gaze, Seon-ah saw a crowd of people outside.

And at the center of the commotion was someone in a flashy outfit.

“No way… It’s Hanbyul Yu?”

“We were just talking about her, but who would’ve thought she’d come to our school!”

Hanbyul Yu was a prominent awakened from Oseong Guild.

Oseong Guild was a well-known mid-sized guild among those interested in awakened ones, and Hanbyul was the best output from such a guild.

She became a 5th rank awakened at the young age of 23.

Although she didn’t surpass Jeong So-yeon, who became the youngest 6th rank in Ara Hongryeon, she was still a remarkable awakened.

“I’m going to go get an autograph.”

“Me too, me too!”

Even Seon-ah was tempted.

For someone who was a fan of awakened individuals, meeting Hanbyul Yu was a big deal.

But she held back.

She was here for Kyu-seong. It would be rude to leave right when he was about to arrive, just because another awakened person showed up.

Anyone else might have left, but as his sister, she needed to stay.

“Seon-ah, I’ll get an autograph for you too.”

“Huh? Oh, thanks.”

Before she realized it, everyone had left. They were all fans of awakened ones and dungeons, which was why they were in this department, so they were all like Seon-ah.

Left alone, Seon-ah watched the scene outside until she felt a tap on her shoulder.

“Hi.”

“Oh, brother, you’re here.”

Seon-ah smiled at Kyu-seong’s familiar face.

“By the way, what’s going on outside? Why is there such a crowd?”

“Hanbyul Yu is here.”

“Oh? The rookie who became a 5th rank at such a young age?”

“Yeah. The students are going crazy since she’s here.”

“Is it because of the interview?”

“Seems like it.”

Kyu-seong looked towards where Hanbyul Yu was and then asked,

“Are your team members over there too?”

“Yeah.”

“What about the interview?”

“Could you wait a bit?”

“Hmm. We really shouldn’t make them wait…”

“Please, just be patient for a little while, kind brother.”

“I’m not joking, we really shouldn’t make them wait. I didn’t come alone.”

“What do you mean you didn’t come alone?”

Seeing Seon-ah’s wide-eyed expression, Kyu-seong gave a mischievous smile. Seon-ah, half-expecting and half-doubting, asked cautiously.

“…Did you call a guild member?”

“I invited a special guest for my dear sister.”

“Who?”

“You’ll see.”

As Kyu-seong continued to smirk, Seon-ah squinted her eyes but couldn’t say anything more and kept her mouth shut.

Just then, the commotion outside grew louder.

It seemed that Hanbyul Yu and her group were planning to use this café as well.

“Why are they coming to the café? It’s going to be crowded. Why don’t they book a separate interview space?”

Seon-ah grumbled to herself.

Kyu-seong, puzzled, asked,

“Didn’t your team secure a place for the interview?”

“Huh? Oh, well, no. We don’t draw that big of a crowd.”

“Ouch. That stings, little sister.”

“By the way, didn’t you bring Ara?”

“Yes, she’ll be here soon.”

“What?”

As they were talking, a crowd of people poured into the café.

Hanbyul Yu and the students who invited her took seats in the center, enjoying the attention.

When Seon-ah’s team members returned, they saw Kyu-seong and greeted him.

“Oh! Seon-ah’s brother is here! Hello, thank you for accepting our interview proposal.”

“Hello.”

“Shall we start the interview right away?”

“No, we still have some guests coming, so could you wait a bit?”

Kyu-seong’s words puzzled the team members, who looked at Seon-ah. She just shrugged, as she had no idea either.

“What?!”

A sudden high-pitched voice drew everyone’s attention.

The one who had stood up shouting was none other than Hanbyul Yu.

Already the center of attention, her sudden outburst made everyone look around.

They soon saw two people approaching the café. No, actually three.

“No way…”

“Could it be? No, that’s impossible…”

Unlike with Hanbyul Yu, no one dared to approach them. One of them had such an imposing presence that it overwhelmed everyone.

“The Predator!”

“No way, it’s Kang Hanul and Jeong So-yeon!”

“Who called them for an interview? This can’t be real!”

Everyone was in a state of confusion.

Some were pinching their cheeks and rubbing their eyes in disbelief at the sudden appearance of these figures.

In the midst of the commotion, Hanbyul hurriedly got up and ran outside. She then bent over deeply and greeted them respectfully.

“Hello, seniors!”

“Huh? Who’s this?”

“Who is this?”

The intimidating presence of Kang Hanul melted away as he reverted to his usual goofy self, asking Jeong So-yeon. Ara, riding on Kang Hanul’s shoulders, cutely repeated his words.

“It’s Hanbyul Yu from Oseong Guild. It’s been a while, Hanbyul.”

“Oh, it’s been a while! I never expected to see you two seniors here!”

As people began to realize the reality of the situation, the fact that Ara Hongryeon’s top awakened members were visiting Korea University began to sink in.

“Wow, this is insane!”

“Can we get autographs?”

“But who invited them? Did they come here just for an interview, or did they have other business at the university?”

Watching the chaos unfold, Seon-ah glared at Kyu-seong. He waved back nonchalantly, ignoring her piercing gaze.

“Over here!”

“Oh! Kyu-seong! There you are!” 

Kang Hanul, having spotted Kyu-seong, walked over with a broad smile. The students who were hesitating about whether to approach looked at Kyu-seong curiously. 

“Is he the one who invited them?”

“Is he a student here?”

“Who is he? How does he know the executives of Ara Hongryeon?”

Seon-ah’s team members, who had never expected this, stared in awe at the scene. 

“Wh-which guild did you say Seon-ah’s brother was in?”

“I’ve never heard… Could it really be Ara Hongryeon?”

Confusion and surprise mingled together. 

Kang Hanul, having reached the table, grabbed a chair and sat down with a cheerful grin. 

“Hahaha! It’s been a while, Kyu-seong!”

“It’s been a while!”

“Yes, it has. Thank you for coming today.”

“If it’s for you, Kyu-seong, I’d drop everything and come running!”

“Come running!”

The limitless goodwill Kang Hanul showed toward Kyu-seong made people wonder, ‘Who is this guy?’

Meanwhile, Jeong So-yeon approached and greeted them. 

“Kyu-seong, it’s been a while.”

“It’s been a while. Thank you for coming.”

“No problem. Ah, this must be your sister?”

“Oh? You recognize her?”

“Yes, you two look alike. Especially the eyes.”

“They look alike! Lee Seon-ah and Lee Kyu-seong are siblings!”

For a moment, Kyu-seong and Seon-ah glared at each other. Their serious expressions upon being told they looked alike confirmed their sibling relationship.

In the meantime, Seon-ah’s team members, along with the people who had gathered around, quickly greeted Kang Hanul and Jeong So-yeon.

“Kang Hanul! I’m a big fan!”

“Wow, I can’t believe I’m seeing Jeong So-yeon in person! Are you here for an interview? This is amazing.”

The excitement was even more intense than it had been for Hanbyul. While Hanbyul was indeed a famous awakened, she was still a rookie who had debuted recently.

However, Jeong So-yeon, with her reputation as the youngest 6th rank awakened, and Kang Hanul, who was considered a living history of awakened beings due to his long career, were on another level.

“We really should find another location for this, don’t you think?”

Feeling the heat of the excitement, Kyu-seong scratched his head awkwardly, while Seon-ah pouted her lips.

“You should have told me beforehand.”

“I wanted to surprise you.”

She gave him a playful glare, but deep down, she was grateful.

After all, both Kang Hanul and Jeong So-yeon were very busy people. To get them to come for a mere college project was unbelievable.

‘This is suddenly so overwhelming…’

Feeling a bit nauseous from the pressure, Seon-ah thought about finding a proper place for the interview when Kang Hanul laughed loudly and spoke.

“Hahaha! Let’s start the interview right away! Ask anything you want! But before that…”

“Before that!”

Kang Hanul, smiling slyly, gestured towards Kyu-seong.

Ara, perched on Kang Hanul’s shoulders, also smiled and gestured.

Seeing this, Kyu-seong chuckled and took something out of his bag.

“Since you might get a bit peckish during the interview, how about having some snacks?”

“Hahaha! Great, great!”

“Hehehe! This is good!”

Though she didn’t say anything, Jeong So-yeon looked at Kyu-seong with eyes full of anticipation. The team members, who were hastily reviewing their prepared questions, glanced over curiously.

“Sweet Potato Candies. Sound good?”

“Sweet Potato Candies! Sweet Potato Candies!”

At that moment, Hanbyul Yu, who had been awkwardly standing nearby, lit up. She exclaimed as she saw the Sweet Potato Candies Kyu-seong took out.

“This, this…!”

“Hehehe. You recognize it! Well, it has become a bit famous recently.”

“It has become famous!”

Hanbyul looked at Kang Hanul and Jeong So-yeon with a face that seemed to ask, ‘Is this for real?’ Her gaze kept being drawn to Ara as a bonus.

“That’s right! Your guess is correct! Our Kyu-seong is indeed the best awakened that Ara Hongryeon Guild is proud of! Hahaha!”

“Lee Kyu-seong is the best! Hehehe!”

In the awakened community, the identity of the mysterious food items had been gradually becoming known.

And now, the owner of those items was revealed.

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Palace 4

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The Chancellor spoke to Ian in a tone as if he was testing him.

“Your Highness, you might not be aware, but there is a bizarre rumor circulating in the capital that you are driving the citizens of the empire to their deaths.”

“Yes, I know. It’s truly a ridiculous rumor. It can only be considered as someone maliciously spreading it.”

As Ian stared sharply at the Chancellor, the Chancellor laughed heartily.

“Surely, Your Highness doesn’t suspect me?” 

“It’s quite the ‘coincidence’ that as soon as the rumor started spreading, you sought me out.”

“How could I possibly slander the royal family and undermine the authority of the royal house? I contacted you swiftly to resolve this issue before Your Highness is wrongfully accused if, as the rumor says, the prices of essential goods rise.”

It seemed the Chancellor could be ruled out as a suspect. At least, he was someone who valued the authority of the royal family more than anyone else. While Ian was pondering how to resolve the rumor, he suddenly recalled an episode from his first day at work when his mentor had berated him with a single word repeatedly.

“Employee Kang Seong-jin, did you slice this into actionable segments? Sigh… Doing it this way means we can’t analyze it accurately.”

“I’m sorry. Could you please explain what you mean by actionable segments?”

Though now a familiar concept, it had been difficult to grasp back then. MECE (Mutually Exclusive Collectively Exhaustive) means that the categories should be mutually exclusive and collectively exhaustive. For example, the currency of South Korea can be divided into coins and bills. Coins are ten won, fifty won, one hundred won, and five hundred won. Bills are one thousand won, five thousand won, ten thousand won, and fifty thousand won. These eight forms of currency are mutually exclusive but together form the complete set of South Korean currency.

Since adopting this perspective, Ian had never been criticized in presentations or reports. In fact, even this rumor could be easily resolved if viewed from a MECE perspective. The goods entering the capital could be split into essential goods and luxury goods, and different tax policies could be maintained for these two categories.

Ian was curious about how the Chancellor would approach this problem.

“I’m curious about the solution you have in mind, Chancellor. If you can’t resolve such a simple issue, I would be personally disappointed.”

The Chancellor, seeing Ian’s provocative demeanor, picked up the teacup in front of him. Ian’s confident demand for a solution reminded the Chancellor of the Emperor’s childhood.

The Chancellor took a sip of tea and spoke calmly to Ian.

“I cannot afford to disappoint Your Highness. I have a plan in mind. Would you like to hear it?”

When Ian nodded, the Chancellor shared his opinion.

“We could levy different tolls on luxury goods and essential goods. One way is to significantly raise the toll on luxury goods. If we maintain the current tolls on essential goods, the rumors should die down.”

Not only did the Chancellor approach the problem from a similar perspective, but he also went a step further for the benefit of the empire.

“For food items, in particular, we should maintain the current tolls to ensure a reserve for special situations like wartime.”

Hearing the Chancellor’s response, Ian felt a sudden chill. Although he knew key information about the web novel, he had thought he could handle the main characters with this knowledge. But if he failed to show his capabilities, he might meet his end at Kyle’s hands, just as in the novel.

As if reading Ian’s mind, the Chancellor asked sharply.

“What is Your Highness’s opinion?”

“I agree with the Chancellor. However, there is one thing we must consider.”

The Chancellor looked at Ian with a curious gaze as Ian mentioned there was something else to consider.

“We need to verify whether the current ‘workforce,’ or rather ‘personnel system,’ can handle this.”

During his rookie days, Ian had come up with plausible strategies without understanding the actual work, which often led to failures. Of course, in a hierarchical society, who would refuse if the Emperor or the Chancellor ordered it?

“Concerns about the personnel system…?”

“Additionally, if new procedures are introduced, merchants might complain about the inconvenience. If we want to raise the tolls, the inspection system should not become more cumbersome than it is now.”

The Chancellor revised his assessment of the Third Prince upon hearing Ian’s reasoning. It seemed as though someone had suddenly started aiding the Third Prince.

“I didn’t realize Your Highness had such a detailed interest in administration.”

“Isn’t creating an effective ‘structure’ for running the empire a key virtue of the Emperor?”

“An interesting opinion. But if the Emperor commands to form two lines, who would dare complain in a hierarchical society? Is such detailed consideration necessary?”

Was he just accustomed to the hierarchical society or was he testing Ian?

“It seems the Chancellor is making a jest.”

“How can you say it’s a jest? In my view, it’s the most convenient and effective solution.”

Seeing the white-haired middle-aged man’s sly smile, Ian decided to score more points. Building a relationship with the closest aide to the final decision-maker was always beneficial.

“People inherently want to act in a more comfortable manner. Policies aligned with this instinct will be effective.”

Talking about ‘insights’ into human nature made the Chancellor stop evaluating Ian and simply listen.

“Moreover, merchants are inherently profit-driven. If a new policy is too cumbersome, they will try to bribe the guards.”

“Indeed. Today, I, Arteus, have learned from the Third Prince.”

Ian smiled and replied to the Chancellor’s words.

“If rumors spread that the Chancellor learned from me, people in the palace might say the sun will rise in the west tomorrow.”

“Whether the sun rises in the east or the west, what does it matter? As long as the empire benefits, I would ask even a three-year-old.”

“Surely, I don’t look like a three-year-old to you?”

“Just a few days ago, perhaps. But now, I see a sharp young man before me.”

‘Not bad at all. I’ve earned some points.’

“May I now return to my quarters?”

As Ian attempted to leave, the Chancellor stopped him.

“Your Highness, now that you’ve shared your opinion, how about directly resolving this issue?”

“Hm, is it necessary for me, the Third Prince, to handle this personally?”

It was important to feign reluctance initially to secure ‘compensation.’

“As a prince of the empire, it is your duty to solve imperial problems. If Your Highness doesn’t take the lead, who will actively address the empire’s issues?”

The Chancellor was not easy to deal with, attempting to employ him without compensation.

However, it was crucial not to get accustomed to working for free. If you become used to uncompensated tasks, you might end up with useless work and miss out on important ones.

“When people have the joy of receiving something, they work harder. I know the principle of ‘rewards and punishments’ the Chancellor advised the Emperor. Is the royal family an exception?”

The Chancellor, showing an unreadable expression, replied to the logical counter.

“Very well. If Your Highness resolves this issue well, I will ensure a substantial reward within my power.”

Ian shook his head and said.

“If I drain the Chancellor’s treasury, I would have no face to see you again.”

Seeing Ian evade his intentions repeatedly, the Chancellor decided he would report today’s events to the Emperor. He felt strongly that the Emperor’s desired ‘crown prince competition’ had begun in the hands of the Third Prince.

“I will report this matter directly to the Emperor. When shall we set the deadline?”

From the Chancellor’s professional demeanor, it was evident that managing expectations was crucial. Raising expectations too high might lead to disappointment, no matter how diligently the work was completed.

“Give me a generous one month.”

Used to reporting tasks within 1-2 weeks, Ian felt one month was ample time. However, his confidence was shattered as soon as he heard the Chancellor’s next words.

“One month, Your Highness? I expected you to ask for at least three months… Hearing you say one month excites me.”

“N-No…!”

Just as Ian was about to revise the timeline for more leisure, the Chancellor cut him off with a devilish smile.

“I look forward to next month. I, Arteus, trust only in Your Highness. I will report to the Emperor accordingly.”

The previously confident Third Prince now wore a hurried expression regarding the timeline, which made the Chancellor chuckle. Perhaps this month would be anything but boring.

Meanwhile, as Ian left the Chancellor’s office, he wanted to smack his own reckless mouth.

‘I’ve thrown myself into the pit of hell.’

Though he had a more generous timeline than planned, he needed to hasten. The sooner he could shorten the one-month period, the better.

He needed his own engineer, or rather, ‘technician.’

***

After meeting with the Chancellor, Ian gathered a bundle of papers from his room and asked Tom for the location of the Magic Tower, heading there immediately. He thought he heard Tom calling him, but he was focused on recruiting his ‘technician’ and headed straight to the Magic Tower.

“Gloomy genius magical engineer, Deus.”

Deus, who secretly researched magic engineering in the Magic Tower, caught the First Prince’s attention after an explosion accident during a visit. However, Deus, who genuinely wanted to contribute to the empire, ended up hanging himself, unable to bear the First Prince’s coercive demands to create only lethal weapons.

‘A true contribution to the empire.’

Creating a better ‘structure’ for the empire was something that could excite Deus.

Having arrived at the Magic Tower, Ian checked that the bundle of papers was still with him and knocked on the door, shouting.

“Come here!”

The response from the Magic Tower to Ian’s embarrassing shout was quick. However, the question from the young magician who appeared was unexpected.

“Did you bring something with you?”

A strange silence ensued between Ian and the young magician.

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Survival 128

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The Martial Artist, Levain.

The Mage, Vampire.

The Indomitable Gargoyle.

Unlike those three races, each with their unique strengths, life for minority races in the Evildon Empire is harsh.

Among them, the life of a Doppelganger is especially brutal.

“Hurry up, you useless creature.”

-Crunch!

“Tsk, so weak. Better to use laborers. Maybe I should just sell you to the Vampires.”

“Don’t bother. Even they despise the blood of these things. Better sell them to the Gargoyles. They always need simple laborers.”

Humiliation and oppression are daily life for a Doppelganger.

But this did not apply to the superior individuals among them.

“Hey, should I call you Dekken…?”

“That’s the name of the owner of this appearance. Just call me Doppelganger.”

“Right, I don’t need to know whose name you stole. Here’s your pay.”

In fact, noble Doppelgangers were often hired as strategic weapons, deceitful assassins deceiving their targets.

In a place where strength is power, receiving decent treatment was expected.

Many were satisfied with this life, occasionally promised wealth and sustenance by other demons.

But at some point, the one who had been ‘Dekken’, ‘Chris’, and ‘Keshak’ began to wonder:

“Why are our people living such miserable lives?”

A question vividly imprinted despite countless identities taken.

The answer was found more easily than expected.

“You guys have it tough too. With the king absent for so long, no wonder you’re so weak.”

A casual remark by Levain, a friendship maintained during missions, sparked an epiphany.

Levain had True Dragon. Vampires had Vlad. Gargoyles had Diamond. The fundamental issue was that his own race lacked a leader.

“You’re looking at your kind like that again.”

“…Is it that obvious?”

“How could I not notice? Every time you come here, you glance at the pasture. Others look down on them, claiming they’re different.”

But he was different. Compassion. Was it not a natural feeling towards his own kind? Or maybe, it wasn’t really for them. The oppressed kin were just an excuse.

He looked at Levain, mingling with others from afar. Unlike others living selfishly, fulfilling their desires, he dreamed.

Dreamed of a society where his kind united like Levain or the Gargoyles.

“A Doppelganger king is not a Doppelganger.”

“Find the human to be king and leave this place.”

So, when the duty was passed onto him along with fertilization from his parent entity, he felt a profound joy from deep within.

“Oh, what brings you here? The civil war in this region is over, I won’t need you for a while.”

“Can I buy my people?”

“What? What are you going to do with them…?”

He was called a madman. 

Buying up a large number of Doppelgangers, who were considered the lowest of slaves, and attempting to cross the border earned him such a nickname. 

“Let’s go! We will have the honor of welcoming our first king!” 

-Crunch!! 

He cast off the disguise of Levain. 

At the same time, he discarded the intelligence he had borrowed. 

The Doppelganger’s curse and burden is to covet and steal others’ existences to survive in this world. 

In that case, 

Just give up the desire to exist as a single entity. 

Give up the intelligence that seeks to steal existences. 

Instead, he accumulated only one desire. 

A sense of mission. 

With only the obsession to find the king, he returned to his original form. 

However, 

Despite his bold start, there were countless twists and turns. 

Giving up on existence meant he couldn’t accomplish anything properly. 

The formless, flickering shadows were nearly wiped out by a single reindeer they encountered on the road. 

Ultimately, they had to take on the form of the lowest creature to survive. 

Even after crossing the border, they had to hide, pretending to be monsters. 

But, 

When a fearless human entered this desolate icy land, the lost intelligence began to crystallize in the brain of the ferocious monster. 

Awakening within the subtle rising joy, the ‘Seeker of Shadow’ realized. 

Finally, 

The time had come for the decades-old effort to bear fruit. 

‘But I must test him first.’ 

A coronation? 

There was no such thing. 

A king is a king by his own right. A coronation is just a declaration, not a condition or ceremony to become a king. 

This was merely a test. 

Just to confirm if this person was worthy of leading their race. 

“O future king! Show me what you’ve got!” 

The ‘Seeker of Shadow’ took the form of the reindeer he had personally captured. 

As a Wendigo, he pointed his horns at his king. 

‘I must be… quite excited.’ 

But he couldn’t help it. 

It was the ‘king’, after all. 

* * * 

This wasn’t my first battle with a Doppelganger. 

Once with the ‘Deceiving Ground Spider’. 

Once with the Mad Wendigo. 

And countless times in the game. 

However, the one before me was familiar yet unlike any opponent I had ever faced. 

After all, 

‘There was no boss Wendigo in the game!’ 

[BOSS] 

[Seeker of Shadow] 

The faintly visible figure on the cave ceiling had a title I had never seen, even as a seasoned player. 

-Snort… 

The familiar sound of a reindeer. 

A prelude to the unique charge pattern of the Wendigo, one of its most troublesome attacks. 

In truth, dodging it isn’t that difficult. 

The problem is… 

“Ha, what is this…” 

I quickly scanned my surroundings to count the enemies. 

In front, on both sides, and behind. 

Even on the cave ceiling. 

It’s not just one. 

Five Wendigos were preparing to charge at me. 

‘At this rate, there’s no way to stop them before they charge, like Camilla did.’ 

It would be easier if they were in human form. 

But considering both their horns and kicks, it was enough to make my overheated brain feel like it was steaming. 

Moreover, 

‘A massive reindeer standing in this cave, almost touching the ceiling with its horns. …Is this real?’ 

A dagger-wielding rogue is strictly limited to close combat with humans. 

Dealing with a balance completely out of whack, nearly to the point of absurdity, left no time to even ponder how to respond.

The Wendigo in front of me immediately charged, flaunting its large horns.

“I see everything!”

“Heh heh… Indeed, the one who will become king. You dodge well. But I’ll judge whether that was luck or not myself.”

Next, the second one. 

A charge from behind.

“Tsk, so noisy.”

I immediately turned and swung my golden blade.

‘If I wound the horns, I can stop the charge for a while.’

That was the thought as I swung the dagger, but…

“What?!”

“Disappointing…”

The black powder scattered like a mirage along the path of the sword.

Simultaneously, the Wendigo that had been on the ceiling dropped straight down.

-Crunch…

Accompanied by the grating sound of grinding fangs.

“Ugh!”

“You managed to block it! But it can’t end here!”

The force enhanced by gravity.

The physique of a Wendigo, large enough to create a wind pressure, was powerful.

The heaviness transmitted from its massive horns was felt not only in my struggling arms but also in my legs.

‘It was all fake! This guy even had the skills of the ‘Deceiving Ground Spider’?’

Not only was it a massive reindeer with minions, but it also used skills!

Truly a cowardly, dirty, and vile opponent who played the game in a despicable manner!

I gritted my teeth and shook it off by its horns.

[You used Essence of the Extreme Cold (Rank: A).]

[Basic stats are temporarily adjusted.]

If I hadn’t quickly drawn upon this power, I would have been buried by those horns.

“That was quite a critical strike, but you withstood it well.”

“Don’t look down on me with such bad luck. It’s disrespectful to the king.”

Even in this situation, my mouth was alive.

I couldn’t help but chuckle at my own words.

“Good. That’s how it should be! Just as we face adversity, I hope you, too, continue to maintain your indomitable spirit!”

In the blink of an eye, I was surrounded again.

The Wendigos’ voices overlapped, including the clones.

But I cynically smiled at the massive reindeer in front of me.

‘Using the same trick again? Let’s see, I’ll make you regret it.’

I only made a mistake because it was an unfamiliar enemy.

Having experienced the pattern, I wouldn’t fall for it again.

I closed my eyes and focused on the sounds.

The charge was merely a deception.

I had learned the Wendigo’s charge speed by heart.

Both in the game and in reality.

-Crunch!

The vibration of hooves nearing as if about to trample me and the roaring sound.

I could distinctly feel the Wendigos charging from all directions.

However, in the darkness created by closing my eyes.

The Wendigo I visualized was approaching from behind.

Thinking I had given up, its disappointed gaze was clear in my mind.

-Crunch!

In sync with the sound in my ears.

And matching the imagined Wendigo’s charge.

I swung my Raven claw at the spot where the horn and head would be.

-Slash.

“Ugh! My horn…?”

I opened my eyes slightly to check its condition.

It was bewildered, its proud massive horn detached from its head.

The comical sight was quite satisfying to witness.

“Let’s finish this quickly. You can’t win in that form.”

I raised my lips in a taunting smirk.

I memorized the patterns of all Wendigos, including in the game.

How could I not counter a Doppelganger boss pattern?

“So, show your true form quickly.”

Phase 2, you must have one, right?

Stop whining about losing a horn.

Did it understand my words?

It flinched momentarily.

“My true form, you say?”

Now, instead of blood, black powder began to scatter from its head, without even attempting to heal itself.

He sent a chilling gaze in my direction.

“What do you mean? This is my true form.”

“I’m talking about your Doppelganger form. Just a mass of shadows with a mouth.”

“Haha, is it because you are the king? You seem to know a lot about Doppelgangers. However, I have no true form to return to.”

With his unbalanced weight due to the missing horn, he comically lifted his tilting head. 

However, the words he uttered and the atmosphere he created were profoundly serious.

“If I return to that true form, I might win this fight, but it would make me forget ‘myself.'”

That is the fate of the Doppelganger.

Because their existence is not established, they can only mimic the emotions and intelligence of others.

Puff.

After finishing his snort, his gaze turned again to his kin.

To the reindeer watching this battle’s conclusion over the bonfire.

“I do not wish to return to a wretched existence that only seeks prey. How could I lead them that way?”

Creak.

As he finished speaking, a strange sound emanated from his head.

“…Doesn’t it hurt?”

“It’s bearable.”

In his hooves, now bleeding black powder instead of blood, were two greatswords.

No, they were the horns that had fallen from his head. The horns that had fallen to the ground were gone, suggesting he had a self-repair or summoning ability.

And at the same time, the reindeer that had been lying down stood up and took a stance.

It was truly a bizarre sight.

A ferocious bipedal reindeer wielding two greatswords.

“So, I must be greatly disrespectful to show you this form, as a Wendigo that embodies the hardships and history of our race.”

A quote from some soccer player came to mind.

Crazy people change the world more than rational ones.

He was exactly that.

Crossing the border as a demon.

Persisting in the form of a reindeer despite being thwarted.

Such insane acts that disregarded life might be why the Doppelgangers were able to establish their civilization now.

He might be the greatest figure among Doppelgangers, more so than any nonexistent king.

■ ■ ■

“Truly fitting for a name like ‘Seeker of Shadow.'”

“Seeker of Shadow? Huh, is that the name the king has bestowed upon me? It doesn’t sound too bad.”

No, I was referring to the boss label above your head.

Still, it wasn’t a bad name, as it perfectly represented his life.

“Now, I will proceed with the coronation. Hup!”

A wind pressure as intense as a charge swept past me.

The power of his massive strides and the swing of his great horns was quite formidable.

However,

“Ugh!”

“As they say, relying solely on brute strength without the finesse of swordsmanship. It reminds me of what Luciana once mentioned.”

Something she mumbled while recounting her battle with Lexton during a tea break.

The Seeker of Shadow in front of me was exactly like that.

Sure, a mere touch would be fatal.

“But if it doesn’t hit, it’s useless.”

The overly large preparatory movements and clumsy swings were of no concern to someone seasoned like me.

Avoiding what was more akin to a monster’s motions than human techniques, I gradually accumulated wounds on him.

Eventually,

-Thud.

“Useless…”

“You tried to imitate human swordsmanship beyond your means.”

“I tried to emulate the king… But it was not enough.”

The Seeker of Shadow kneeled, exerting all his strength.

Black powder flowed from his entire body.

In that state, he bowed his head.

“Forgive me for not trusting and testing you. Please, become our king.”

-Thud.

-Thud.

As he bowed his head,

The Wendigos watching from the bonfire and buildings also lowered their horns to the ground.

“Raise your heads, all of you.”

With such support, how could I refuse?

In response to my resolve,

The shadow crystal also emitted a bright light.

[You have secured sufficient favorability with the respective race!]

[Condition 2 met.]

[You have secured the favorability of three or more noble demons.]

[Bathory Erzsébet, Oparn, Seeker of Shadow]

[Condition 3 met.]

[All conditions fulfilled.]

[You have met the requirements for the class change to ‘Shadow King of the Doppelgangers.’]

Prev I TOC I Next

Act 117

Prev I TOC I Next

Aiden de Donassien. 

When I saw his face appear at the entrance of the laboratory, I was so dumbfounded I could only inwardly shake my head in disbelief. 

‘What on earth did Korund do to handle this situation?’ 

The barrier was lifted, yet Aiden himself was here. I subtly shifted my gaze to him. 

He exuded a fierce, lethal aura, his presence reminiscent of a blade. Unlike before when I cut out his eye, I didn’t feel it would be as easy this time. His intense killing intent was merely a playground for ‘Julian,’ and the poison in the air that felt like it could pierce the skin had become so familiar it was almost a fleeting amusement. 

The problem was…

‘I hate this place…’

The location. Since this was Aiden’s laboratory, it would undoubtedly be filled with spells that benefited him.

=== 

<Perception> Detected offensive magic circle. 

<Perception> Detected defensive magic circle… 

<Perception> Detected trap magic… 

<Perception> …

Just look at this. 

As Aiden entered, the magic circles connected to him started to reveal themselves. Damn. There were also many dangerous ones. If I took them on directly, no matter how sturdy Julian’s body was, it wouldn’t remain unscathed.

‘Damn it.’

Here was another problem. Julian’s ego strongly resisted the idea of fleeing or avoiding the fight here. My body, which craved the thrill of battle and stimulation, couldn’t overlook Aiden’s continuous provocations. 

‘Finish him here.’

My body was convinced of this. 

‘A body that acts before the mind.’

I didn’t expect such a strong ego to manifest like this. But this time, I agreed with Julian’s thoughts. It was time to bring this to an end.

“The alarm I set on the bookshelf went off, so I rushed here to see what was going on…”

Leaning on his staff, Aiden sighed and his face turned stern, but I could tell. He was only feigning calm, with immense rage boiling inside.

For example, I could see a ‘red haze’ above his head.

“Aileen.”

Thud! 

Aiden struck the ground with his staff and, after glancing at me, turned his gaze to Aileen.

“Why are you here?”

“…Investigating the demon appearances in the slums led me to this place.”

“Why would a wizard from the Tower do such a thing! You could have left it to the Closed Eyes or the imperial knights, the royal dogs!”

To an outsider, it would be most curious why the ‘Black Knight’ was here, but Aiden deliberately avoided mentioning me. 

‘Is it natural…?’ 

Rumors circulated that the ‘Black Knight’ punished corrupt nobles and fought for the safety of the people, but that wasn’t the reality. 

The ‘Black Knight’ had been acting to check the ‘Dawn Society.’ From the beginning until now.

Aiden must have known that. For that reason, he avoided engaging with the ‘Black Knight.’ Any slip of the tongue could reveal the Dawn Society, which still needed to remain hidden.

“Lord Toshaun always said that satisfying curiosity is a wizard’s duty.”

“He also mentioned that excessive curiosity invites disaster.”

“I’d like to return those words to the current lord.”

As Aileen stepped forward and interrupted Aiden’s words, his face twisted with displeasure.

“It was you, Lord Aiden, who led the demonization experiments here, wasn’t it?”

Her face was filled with disgust.

“If you conducted such inhumane experiments…”

“How many times have I told you not to judge magic by moral standards!”

Thud!

Aiden, his face full of rage, struck the ground with his staff again.

“I’ll pretend you didn’t enter my laboratory without permission. So, come over here.”

The nonsense he spouted made him gesture to Aileen. Normally, Aileen might have been intimidated by Aiden’s stern voice, but she shook her head, refusing his order.

“What I saw today cannot be undone.”

Aiden clicked his tongue at Aileen’s defiant stance.

“You can’t even uphold your family’s mission. I shouldn’t have left such a half-wit alone.”

With those muttered words, Aiden extended his staff forward. Sharp metals began to extend in all directions, befitting a wizard who manipulates the gold element.

Sssshh.

Dodging or deflecting them wasn’t difficult. Even Aileen, caught off guard by Aiden’s sudden attack, managed to protect herself with magic.

‘Does he have another trick up his sleeve?’

That thought crossed my mind, but my body was already closing the distance to Aiden before I could think further. 

It felt too easy for facing a wizard of Aiden’s caliber. For a moment, I wondered if he had a hidden ace. But Julian’s instincts, driving my body, were intent on ending this grudge once and for all.

“Look out, it’s dangerous!”

Aileen’s urgent voice snapped me back to reality. 

‘Is it here?’

I noticed a faintly glowing magic circle beneath a stone right under my foot.

‘A trap?’

Before stepping on it, I quickly retreated, and an explosion of fragmented metal erupted like a volcano.

‘That was close.’

Glancing at the activated trap, I refocused on Aiden. Although I had detected it with <Perception> before Aileen’s warning, the magic circles were so widespread that identifying each one was challenging.

It seemed Aiden wouldn’t stop casting spells. That’s how wizards fight knights. If I could just get close, I could easily win, but no wizard would foolishly allow that.

‘So…’

I had prepared something for this very day!

With all my nerves focused on the tip of my sword, I swung the Moonlight Sword through the air as if drawing a picture. 

The mana-infused aura, converted through my mana veins, flew through the air with physical force, causing Aiden’s face to contort in shock.

‘He must have thought he was safe at this distance.’

As the sword energy struck Aiden’s arm,

“Arghhh!”

He screamed in pain, dropping his staff. Rolling on the ground a few times, he frantically searched for his fallen staff. 

But seeing me charging at him, he abandoned his staff and, with a pale face, started fleeing towards the underground waterway.

…He’s really going to run like this?

Such a proud noble. Where was the arrogance of “I am the rightful head of the de Donassien family” now? Tsk.

Seeing such a prideful man fleeing with his tail between his legs only made me laugh bitterly. 

I could just… let him go, right? 

‘No!’ 

As that weak thought crept in, my hand gripping the sword started trembling. 

My legs were already moving in the direction Aiden had fled. 

‘I must end this now. I will punish the one who disregards human lives.’ 

Though it wasn’t out of a sense of justice but for my own safety, I had to seize the opportunity.

***

Aiden knew the entire layout of the underground waterway. 

He remembered exactly where everything was located, what magic was present, and what traps were set. 

His disgraceful escape was a way to utilize that knowledge. 

…. 

‘Damn it, damn it!’ 

It was just a cowardly excuse. 

Losing his staff, getting his arm slashed by the aura that cut through the air – it was all because he lacked skill. 

‘Why is the Black Knight here…?’

Enduring the searing pain, Aiden continued down the dark path. 

‘Aileen, she’s the same.’ 

For the Imperial Court to find out about the illegal activities, both the Black Knight and Aileen would have to survive and escape this place. 

Even if Aileen managed to escape and report today’s events… 

‘With my power, I can make it all disappear!’ 

The real problem was the Black Knight. 

‘I must kill him here, no matter what.’ 

Losing the research logs was painful. 

Losing the disciples who managed them was equally so. 

But as long as he survived, if he could just overcome this ordeal, Aiden believed he could somehow make a comeback. 

And then he would understand why Pintel and Gerard made such a fuss about the Black Knight. 

However, today, facing him directly, Aiden felt a creeping emotion. 

People would call this ‘fear.’ 

‘Strangely, I felt a strong obsession towards me from him. He will surely follow me to the end.’ 

Despite all the trouble Aiden had caused, he couldn’t pinpoint his connection to the Black Knight. 

But he could sense the deep grudge he held. 

Whoosh. 

Aiden stopped running as a breeze blew from somewhere. 

In front of him was the end of the underground waterway, leading to a cliff at the dam. 

Originally meant to collect rain or river water, the unused underground waterway was always open. 

Hence, it was a cliff-like area with no water. 

‘If I fall, I will die,’ he was certain when a familiar voice came from behind. 

“A dead end, it seems.” 

Turning his head to see his face again, Aiden felt his body stiffen. 

‘Is that what a hero from legend looks like?’ 

Aiden thought he resembled a grim reaper more suited to taking lives. 

“It’s quite a height. Can you survive the fall? If not, I can’t understand why you ran here.” 

“Shut… up!” 

Sweat ran cold down Aiden’s back, filling him with discomfort. 

“What is your goal…?” 

“World peace.” 

World peace?

“Don’t make me laugh!”

Aiden wanted to spit out curses, but instead, he focused his gaze on where the Black Knight was standing.

‘I need to get a little closer.’

Clenching his fist, Aiden waited for the Black Knight to approach.

“Do you have a grudge against me? Or are you venting your anger against the Dawn Society?”

The Black Knight slowly advanced, holding the black sword that emitted aura like magic.

“If it’s the latter… I can help you. I have information about the Dawn Society and the Archbishop who currently manages it…”

“The one currently managing the Dawn Society is not the Archbishop, but the Grand Archbishop.”

Aiden flinched as he continued speaking.

“How… how do you know…?”

“There are ways to find out anything.”

As the Black Knight drew closer again, Aiden began calculating the distance between them. One step, two steps. On the third step, as soon as he set foot on the ground, Aiden activated the ‘jewel magic’ installed in the ceiling, causing an explosion.

Boom!

With a thunderous noise, stone fragments scattered everywhere, and dust filled the air.

‘Is he dead…’

He hoped for a moment, but…

“Pointless effort…”

The Black Knight’s voice echoed through the dust.

Aiden knew that if the Black Knight could be killed by such a small explosion, he wouldn’t have been this much trouble.

‘Damn!’

But Aiden’s real trick came next. A slimy substance began to drip from the ceiling with a squelching sound.

Splat!

Obscured by the dust, it was the residue from the demon experiments, waste collected to be disposed of later. Highly toxic and filled with demonic energy, it was perfect for killing someone.

“Aaaargh!”

A deathly scream echoed from the dust, and Aiden burst into maniacal laughter.

“Heh, hehahaha! Foolish… cough, cough!”

Hiss!

As the slimy substance from the ceiling flowed towards the cliff, thick demonic energy rose like steam. The residue from such potent demonic experiments would twist and corrupt the mana veins of an ordinary person, causing them to either demonize and become a demon, losing their sense of self, or face biological death.

“Damn bastard made me use my precious collection.”

Relaxing, Aiden let out a string of curses. Usually, he would scold others for such vulgarity, but this time he couldn’t help himself.

“Next is Aileen. That foolish woman, she should prioritize the family’s secret above all else…”

As Aiden continued speaking, he felt something was wrong.

However, the slimy substance still oozing from the ceiling continued to exude its potent demonic energy, making its presence unmistakable.

‘What’s this? What’s wrong…’

At that moment, a dark figure emerged from the slimy mass.

“Gasp…!”

Aiden almost stopped breathing in shock.

The Black Knight’s body was unscathed despite being covered in the residual spirit, but his grotesque mask had developed deep cracks.

“Be thankful I didn’t wear my favorite coat today.”

“How… how are you unscathed!!!”

Aiden screamed with a thunderous voice. The residual spirit of a demon god contaminated all living things, turning them into mindless demons under its control.

“How can you still have your self-awareness after being drenched in that much slime?!”

“Who knows?”

This phenomenon completely contradicted his research findings. Aiden was furious that his accumulated data was invalidated but also felt fear as the Black Knight slowly approached.

Conflicting emotions clashed within him, and his legs wavered between fleeing and fighting.

“Perhaps this cursed body lacks something you could call ‘self-awareness.'”

Aiden looked at the Black Knight with bloodshot eyes.

Crack!

Amid this, the Black Knight’s cracked mask began to fall apart.

“At this point, I’m even confused about who I am.”

His face was revealed underneath.

“You, you are…”

“Regardless, it seems neither option is a big deal for me. The most important thing, after all… is my mental well-being, Lord Aiden.”

A familiar and detestable man with narrow eyes came into full view.

Thud.

In that moment, Aiden was pushed by the Black Knight’s hand and fell from the high cliff.

He cursed himself for not believing Gerard’s words.

Prev I TOC I Next

Round 69

Prev | TOC | Next

“Ta-da!”

-ROAR!

Ara, covered in dirt, finally pulled something out. 

The already intense aroma grew even stronger.

Its appearance wasn’t like a typical mushroom but resembled a large broccoli.

The size was roughly that of Ara’s two fists combined.

It had a reddish-brown color.

“Let’s check it out.”

Ara ran over and held out the mushroom.

Every time it shook, the aroma spread, causing my mouth to water involuntarily.

‘Ara’s already drooling.’

I wondered if Ara had never tasted this before.

But first, let’s check the information.

[???]

[A mushroom that has absorbed the nutrients of the World Tree.]

[Extremely rare, only found by the monster known as ‘Star Bear.’]

[Upon consumption, it restores a small amount of mana.]

As expected, it was an item.

And it had a mana recovery effect!

This effect is usually only found in potions from high-level dungeons, yet here it was in a mushroom.

Another notable point was that it could only be found by Star Bears.

‘Even with such a strong scent, only Star Bears can find it?’

Of course, you couldn’t tell it was there when it was buried underground, but once you started digging, the smell was overwhelming.

Couldn’t you find it by digging around a bit if you were lucky?

Well, if the system says so, there must be something I don’t know.

“Ara, is this your first time seeing this?”

“Yes! It’s my first time!”

It was surprising that Ara hadn’t discovered it before.

She’s lived here for a long time and even has a big enough appetite to dig into the World Tree’s roots, yet she hadn’t eaten a mushroom parasitizing on the roots?

‘There must be a special mechanism that only allows Star Bears to find it…’

In any case, we found a good ingredient. 

Considering its effect, its value was unknown.

“The description says it’s very rare, but how rare is it?”

“Is it rare?”

Ara tilted her head and asked Gomgom.

Gomgom shook his paws side to side and made some sounds.

-ROAR! ROAR!

“Is it common?”

-ROAR!

Ara’s face brightened at Gomgom’s response.

“It’s plentiful!”

“There are many mushrooms?”

“Yes, that’s right!”

Although the item description said it was very rare, it seemed to be a common ingredient for Gomgom.

Well, if only Star Bears can find it, there wouldn’t be any competition, so it would grow abundantly. 

Besides, where are we? Right at the World Tree.

Since the World Tree itself is rare, it’s natural that mushrooms feeding on it are rarely seen.

“Huh?”

While holding the mushroom and thinking about this and that, I noticed that fairies had gathered around, watching in groups.

Seeing everyone’s eyes on the mushroom, I asked Frey quietly.

“Frey, is this mushroom new to you too?”

-I’ve seen it before. If you’re lucky, you can find fragments in the traces left by Star Bears. 

We consider those fragments a great delicacy.

“Oh? So you do eat something other than honey?”

-It’s so hard to find that we can’t eat it carelessly. Hehe.

Frey laughed awkwardly.

Then the surrounding fairies looked at Frey with disgruntled expressions, hands on their hips.

“What’s up with them?”

-Oh, it’s nothing, my lord.

-୧(๑•̀ᗝ•́)૭!

I couldn’t understand the other fairies’ words, but Ara shouted as if she did.

“Frey has been hoarding it!”

“…Where did you learn to say things like that, Ara?”

Seeing the fairies grumbling, it seemed like Frey was hogging the hard-to-find mushroom fragments.

However, Frey looked aggrieved and said,

-It’s true I collect and hide them, but it’s an unavoidable choice! As the queen, I need to maintain my magic power, and only this World Tree mushroom can do that!

“Oh, it must be related to the mana recovery ability.”

Everything Frey said seemed to be connected to mana.

Anyway, I realized that this mushroom was very important to Frey as well.

“Gomgom, can you find more of these mushrooms?”

Ara translated, and Gomgom clapped his hands and nodded.

-GROAR!

“There are many!”

“Really, there are many?”

Gomgom, eager to prove his words, put his nose back to the ground, sniffing and crawling around.

And soon after, we began digging near the roots of the World Tree from a distance.

This time, Ara just watched without helping, but after about five minutes of struggling, Gomgom finally managed to unearth the mushroom.

-Roar!

Proudly holding up the mushroom, Gomgom then took a big bite.

The way it chewed was cute.

“Come to think of it, I haven’t tasted it yet.”

Although eating raw mushrooms seemed a bit unappealing, the aroma was irresistible.

I cut the mushroom I first received in half and shared it with Ara.

-Neeeigh.

Frey let out a wistful sound.

Unable to resist those eyes, I ended up cutting my portion of the mushroom in half again and gave it to Frey.

“Let’s all share. There’s enough, right?”

-In gratitude for the great lord’s benevolence, I, Frey, swear my loyalty with all my heart!

I smiled softly at Frey’s cute behavior.

Now it was time to actually taste the mushroom.

“Mmm! Mmmm!”

“I can’t understand what you’re saying.”

Ara, who had eaten the mushroom first, mumbled with her cheeks full.

The mushroom was quite large, so unlike Ara, I took a bite like Gomgom did.

Splat-!

“Huh?”

The moment I bit into it, juice burst from the mushroom.

As I chewed again, thinking it was more moist than expected, the already strong aroma of the mushroom enveloped my whole body.

‘A complex aroma.’

A refreshing mint-like scent greeted me first.

Then, a subtle cheesy aroma spread, followed by the scent of wet wood, the smell of melting chocolate, and the aroma of roasted chestnuts.

To be honest, it was a flavor experience unlike any I had ever had before.

“It’s delicious.”

But the important thing was ultimately the taste.

This mushroom had a taste I had never experienced before, but it was delicious.

I resisted the urge to grill it right away and carefully saved the remaining mushroom.

“Gomgom, let’s dig more!”

-Roar!

Ara, not satisfied with just half a mushroom, shouted at Gomgom with fiery eyes.

Gomgom, happy to be of help, cheerfully went back to digging.

“They say praise makes even a whale dance…”

Well, Gomgom once went looking for mushrooms while we were away and ended up getting stuck on the stairs, so it was understandable.

While Ara and Gomgom were busy searching for more mushrooms, I headed toward the World Tree.

Frey escorted me, chattering away.

-I will scout the ground for the next visit! Once we collect the seeds from the Meluca flowers this time…!

Suddenly, Frey let out a sly laugh.

-Hehe. Covering the whole world with Meluca flowers…!

I chuckled at Frey’s overly ambitious plan.

“Sure, sure. But don’t get ahead of yourself; we don’t even know if the Meluca we’re growing now will bloom.”

-I believe in you, great lord! And I trust the apostles you have bestowed upon us!

“Alright. I’ll do my best. But can I ask you something?”

-Yes! Please, go ahead.

“You have wings, right? Can’t you fly?”

-Oh…

At my question, Frey suddenly faltered.

It seemed I had touched on a sensitive topic.

“Oh, was that a sensitive question? Sorry, you don’t have to answer.”

-No, it’s just… hmm.

Frey awkwardly touched her wings and gave a strained smile.

-Actually, the queen of Alfheim undergoes two moltings.

“Moltings?”

-Yes. The first molting occurs right after birth. The second molting can be done once the qualifications are met.

“That’s interesting. So, you can only use your wings after the second molting?”

-That’s right. When the molting happens, an additional pair of wings appears, and I can finally fly. But I can’t molt because I’m not qualified.

Frey murmured with a bitter expression.

What could those qualifications be?

“What are the qualifications needed for the second molting?”

-That is…

Frey hesitated for a moment, with a curious look on her face, as if wondering if I could solve the problem.

“If it’s something I can help with, I’ll, no, my team and I will help.”

-As expected of the great lord! I am overwhelmed by your boundless grace!

“So, what are the conditions?”

-First, we need a tribute for the World Tree.

“A tribute?”

By this time, we had arrived at the entrance to the inside of the World Tree. I looked up.

The World Tree was so tall that it seemed endless, more like a canyon or cliff than a tree.

-Yes, actually, the tribute has already been prepared.

“Oh, then what’s missing?”

-We need the Tears of the World Tree.

“What are the Tears of the World Tree?”

Is it some kind of item?

The name alone sounded extraordinary.

-In winter, the World Tree sheds all its leaves. Just before this, a special dew forms on a very unique leaf.

“Wow, that’s fascinating. Is that the Tears of the World Tree?”

-No. In fact, we managed to obtain the dew somehow.

I looked up again at Frey’s words.

You climbed all the way up there to get the dew? How?

Well, let’s say you got it. So, what’s the problem now?

-However, to become the Tears of the World Tree, the dew needs to be mixed with the nectar of the Starflower, which blooms on the snowy mountains to the north.

“There are snowy mountains to the north?”

-Yes.

I had never been further north from here.

But hearing about snowy mountains made me think it’s always cold up there, which was quite intriguing.

-Now, here’s the problem! We managed to get both the dew of the World Tree and the nectar of the Starflower through great effort!

“Uh-huh.”

-But even though our ancestors said mixing them would create the Tears of the World Tree, it never worked! The tears were supposed to turn into a clear blue liquid, but all we got was a transparent liquid!

Frey suddenly sped up her speech, almost venting her frustrations rapidly.

-We even drank the liquid, hoping it might still work, but the second molting never happened! I have no idea why this is…

“Frey, do you still have those two ingredients?”

-Huff! Huff! We drank them all!

“…Then we need to gather the ingredients again.”

Listening to Frey, it sounded like the task was to mix the dew and nectar and drink it. The process of collecting these ingredients seemed extremely challenging, but hearing the story made me think…

‘Couldn’t it be possible with liquid synthesis?’

Our cute Frey, how about we get her to fly?

* * *

After a three-day schedule, I returned.

I left Mark2 and the two new rookies in the Dungeon of Gluttony, but it felt a bit empty being apart from the one who had been with me from the beginning.

“There must be a lot of missed calls and messages…”

Having been cut off from the outside world, I went outside first. Soon, my phone, which had been out of service, started receiving numerous messages and calls.

“Mom, Dad… I also got calls from the guild, and messages from Young-seong, Hanul, and Awakener Jeong So-yeon?”

As I checked each one, I came across an unexpected message.

“Seon-ah?”

Did Seon-ah contact me?

Seon-ah, who rarely contacted me, like a stubborn four-year-old sibling, had sent me a message.

I found a text filled with all sorts of jokes and flowery language.

“An interview, huh…”

I didn’t see why I couldn’t do it, but honestly, it felt a bit awkward.

Specifically, me? Really?

‘I am an Awakener, but I can’t show liquid synthesis.’

I couldn’t reveal the Slime Lord’s abilities I had kept hidden all this time, either.

So…

“Should I ask?”

Fortunately, there were people who couldn’t resist anything to do with my crops, and since they had contacted me, I decided to subtly bring it up.

Prev | TOC | Next

Palace 3

Prev | TOC I Next

The ability to handle ‘numbers’ and ‘memorization’ are essential skills for a strategic planning team member and will be highly valued. When the owner prompts, they must be able to immediately recall the necessary figures.

“Assistant Kang, what’s our market share from last year?”

When the representative asks, if you answer, “I’ll look it up,” the representative will never seek you out again.

If you answer, “It’s 23%,” they will come to you when necessary, though not fully satisfied. But how should you answer if you want the representative to fully rely on you?

“The market share for the past year is approximately 23%, a 5% increase from the previous year. Considering the current market situation and allocated budget, we expect an additional 30% growth this year.”

Answering like this will make the representative look at your mouth more than the performance report from that moment on.

To achieve this, Assistant Kang memorized the performance and key indicators by jotting down numbers on paper during his commute. He even memorized quarterly market shares just in case. Since Seong-jin was sensitive to numbers, when he heard Tom mention the year 577, he recalled that Ian in the original story died in the year 582.

“Is it about five years left?”

“Your Highness, what do you mean by five years?”

He muttered to himself without realizing it.

“No, Tom, can I ask a few more questions?”

“Yes, Your Highness, feel free to ask.”

To devise a more effective strategy, market research is essential. While the information in the original story could be referenced from his memory, for unknown information like that regarding Viscount Helington, ‘interviewing’ was important.

“What do you think of Viscount Helington?”

Tom’s answer to Ian’s superior question was cautious.

“How can a subordinate dare to comment on the person you meet, Your Highness?”

Indeed, typical questions wouldn’t elicit the desired answers. It was necessary to ask questions that verified his hypotheses concretely.

“How many times did I meet him per week?”

“About three times a week.”

Seong-jin thought Ian in the original story was pathetic. Drinking with someone who tries to monitor your every move three times a week…

In company terms, it was like an assistant manager drinking with the representative’s royal family and reporting their movements to someone.

“Do you know who else he mainly meets besides me?”

Seong-jin asked without much expectation, but Tom’s answer was unexpected.

“I heard from the servants that Viscount Helington often visits Duke Blake.”

Seong-jin, who obtained two crucial pieces of information through Tom’s answer, smiled with satisfaction. One was the high possibility that Viscount Helington was moving for the First Prince, and the other was discovering Tom’s hidden talent. Despite being bullied by the tyrant Ian, he maintained relationships well enough to gather such information from the palace servants.

Seeing Seong-jin’s presentation, the greedy emotion that passed through the representative’s eyes also passed through Seong-jin’s eyes as he looked at Tom.

Tom also answered detailed questions about various information that needed verification in Seong-jin’s mind.

“Thank you.”

“W-What, Your Highness?”

Tom, who had never heard a thank you since Ian was young, was taken aback, bowing his head and wiping his eyes.

However, seeing the completely changed Third Prince, Tom asked with a glimmer of hope.

“Your Highness, do you perhaps need a priest?”

“I’m fine inside.”

Despite Seong-jin’s answer, Tom continued to stand hesitantly, prompting Seong-jin to ask curiously.

“If you have something to say, feel free to speak. I know how much you’ve been suffering, Tom.”

Tom closed his eyes tightly at Seong-jin’s words and spoke.

“Y-Your Highness… It’s presumptuous, but do you have any trouble recalling some of your past memories…?”

Seong-jin knew Tom was perceptive, but he didn’t expect such a direct question. However, there was no benefit to having this secret spread.

“Do you ask knowing it’s presumptuous?”

“I-I’m sorry, Your Highness. I have committed a grave offense.”

“It’s a joke. It was just a hangover from drinking too much. Don’t worry about it.”

“Then please call on me if you need anything else.”

After Tom left, Seong-jin began devising a 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year plan based on the information he had gathered. While making plans, he realized what he needed to prioritize. 

It was a pity that he couldn’t become the First Prince, but being the Third Prince wasn’t bad either. A strategic planning team member who is also a royal family member? It was like adding wings to a tiger. Such a combination was rare. Unlike in dramas, in reality, the strategies devised by the planning team are often stifled by the operational departments. But in this place where the status of ‘prince’ was influential?

Seong-jin, who had been confused by the sudden transmigration, spent his first night as ‘Ian Helios’ with half anticipation and half worry.

***

Although he had a restless night, he didn’t need much time to adapt. Seong-jin, or rather Ian, was too accustomed to a life without weekends or day and night.

“Ah, refreshing.”

The dazzling sunlight poured in from the windows adorned with splendid golden decorations that he had only seen in photographs in the modern world.

‘It wouldn’t be bad to enjoy such a peaceful life.’

Ian, who was contemplating a strike for the day in his plush bed under the warm sunlight, was jolted awake by a familiar middle-aged man’s voice.

“Your Highness! Your Highness!”

Ian, hearing Tom’s urgent voice overlapping with that of Director Park who used to call him, asked,

“Tom, what’s the matter? Did you hear any bad rumors about me?”

As if he had already guessed, Tom nodded his head at Ian’s words in surprise.

“The strange rumors are spreading quickly in the capital and the palace.”

“What kind of strange rumors?”

“Your Highness, I’m sorry to bring this up in the morning, but I think it’s something I must report… The rumors are about Your Highness and they’re not good, or rather strange, or someone is intentionally…”

Seeing Tom stammer, Ian spoke out of frustration.

“Answer fa-su-to(first).”

“Do you mean Sir Answer Post?”

Realizing his mistake at Tom’s questioning look, Ian corrected himself.

“Forget what I just said. I meant to get to the point quickly.”

“Answer… Post. I’ll remember.”

‘There’s no need to remember that.’ 

After repeatedly mouthing the words to himself, Tom finally opened up about the rumors.

“There are rumors that because of the proposal Your Highness made at the ‘Internal Affairs Meeting,’ the citizens of the capital will starve to death.”

“Starve to death?”

Ian frowned involuntarily, causing Tom’s voice to tremble as he continued to report the rumor.

“Yes… The rumors say that if the tolls are raised, the prices of essential goods will increase, leading to a general rise in living expenses.”

Ian nodded in agreement. It was obvious that merchants would add part of the increased toll to the product prices to make a profit.

Ian had intended to discuss these detailed guidelines further in a working-level meeting. However, the fact that such rumors spread within a day meant someone had maliciously spread them.

‘Who could it be?’

He needed more information to make a decision.

“And?”

“And… along with this, bizarre rumors about Your Highness are spreading.”

Bizarre rumors? It was quite predictable.

Tom, unable to bring himself to say it, kept hesitating, so Ian spoke first.

“The rumor is that an ignorant tyrant of the empire is driving the citizens to their deaths to stand out?”

“Gasp!”

Tom’s eyes widened to the size of saucers as Ian voiced what he was going to say. It made Ian wonder if Tom always squinted his eyes too much.

“H-How did you know? Did you hear the rumors yourself?”

“Well, it seemed likely.”

Seeing Ian unfazed despite hearing rumors defaming him, Tom was convinced that the Third Prince he served had truly changed.

In the past, upon hearing such rumors, at least one piece of furniture in the room would have had its leg broken.

Meanwhile, Ian found the situation amusing. Who would dare provoke a ‘royal family planner’ longing for rest in a plush bed?

Was it Viscount Helington’s doing? Or the work of other nobles manipulating the merchants?

Knock, knock.

As Ian and Tom were conversing, there was a knock on the door.

“Your Highness, I’ll check it out.”

After Ian nodded, Tom quickly checked the visitor and reported back.

“Your Highness, the Chancellor requests an audience.”

“The Chancellor?”

“Yes, he wishes to discuss your proposal from the Internal Affairs Meeting if you’re available today.”

“Do I need to go?”

“That… I’m not sure…”

Seeing Tom hesitate, Ian thought. It seemed he needed to firmly establish his authority as a royal family member. It was unacceptable to still be summoned by the Chancellor.

Ian sighed slightly and told Tom.

“I guess it can’t be helped. Tom, prepare for an outing.”

“Yes, Your Highness. I’ll prepare your usual attire.”

Tom sighed in relief internally at Ian’s calm response. The Third Prince, who would have cursed at the Chancellor’s attendant for not coming himself, had changed. Tom liked the new Third Prince better.

The Chancellor’s attendant, who had been dreading the possibility of being slapped by the Third Prince outside, was puzzled when he saw Ian and Tom. Contrary to his expectations, Ian’s calm expression and Tom’s matching demeanor made the attendant feel confused as he led them to the Chancellor’s office.

***

The Chancellor was curious about the Third Prince’s reaction to his visit request. The past Third Prince would have thrashed his attendant upon hearing those outrageous rumors.

Holding onto a glimmer of hope from the changed demeanor in the Internal Affairs Meeting, the Chancellor had sent his attendant.

‘Has he really changed?’

Waiting for Ian while looking out the window, the Chancellor’s mind was filled with the vivid memory of what the Third Prince said about the logistics issue.

The Third Prince’s completely different behavior raised questions about whether this change would benefit or harm the empire, causing the balance in the Chancellor’s mind to constantly shift.

Knock, knock.

“Your Excellency, the Third Prince has arrived.”

“Let him in.”

Ian, upon entering the reception room, recognized the white-haired man from the Internal Affairs Meeting as the Chancellor.

Ian sat down before the Chancellor could even offer him a seat.

“What brings the busy Chancellor to call on me?”

Despite Ian’s direct manner of speaking, the Chancellor responded with a relaxed smile.

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Strike 164

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A landslide is a double-edged sword.

While it can sweep away monsters in an instant, that massive landslide could also engulf them.

The landslide was approaching at an incredible speed even now.

Rumble…

Hyun-soo embraced Arte and launched into a leap of calamity, soaring into the air.

Screech!

Flying monsters, which had been sent soaring high into the sky by the landslide, turned their bodies towards Hyun-soo and Arte.

[Snow Mountain Griffon Lv.343]

Hundreds of griffons in a swarm.

If they went down to the ground, they’d be swept away by the tidal wave, and Hyun-soo wouldn’t be able to fight while holding Arte in the leap of calamity state.

[It’s a moment of crisis.]

Hyun-soo was someone who moved forward step by step, establishing meticulous plans.

Suddenly, he recalled a conversation with his father.

“Dad, where are we going today?”

“Today, we’re going to Yeosu.”

Just like the ringing of the Boshingak Bell, designated as a treasure of Korea.

Just like the restoration of the Four Tiger Sword, the Seven-Branched Sword, and the Dragon Furnace Sword.

There were things that only master blacksmiths could create.

Yeosu in Jeollanam-do.

Tongyeong in Gyeongsangnam-do.

Sacheon in Gyeongsangnam-do.

Geumnam-myeon in Hadong.

And many other places nationwide.

People increasingly liked old things in a world becoming more modernized.

“Arte, you said it’s possible to level up a skill?”

Most of Arte’s power was focused on buffs.

“Give me that power.”

Arte wondered if there was a clever plan.

[Arte’s Blessing]

[You can designate and increase the level of two skills.]

Hyun-soo applied that power to the Divine Emergency Crafting.

In fact, it was the first time Hyun-soo used Emergency Crafting on something that wasn’t an artifact.

However, whether it was an artifact or not, the principle was the same.

The Divine Emergency Crafting uses temporarily assigned materials if there are no materials available.

Temporary materials are usually the most insignificant ones.

However, there were plenty of main materials for this on this mountain.

[Starting Divine Emergency Crafting.]

Activating the skill, Hyun-soo closed his eyes for a moment.

A blueprint unfolded in his mind.

It was filled with complex and difficult materials.

But for the people who wanted to see the most perfect version of this, Hyun-soo, the blacksmith, had understood and memorized the blueprint hundreds or even thousands of times.

Flash—

It finally began.

The main materials for this.

Trees deeply rooted and settled in the Beres mountain range were pulled out by their roots.

They were quickly shaped into hundreds of different materials.

The Sage Tower that had imprisoned the sage.

The materials that were once the Sage Tower warped and soared into the air.

Soaring up, they heated up red-hot and melted like lava.

And within the knowledge of the genius blacksmith, they became the materials for the joints.

Hundreds of iron pieces for the joints floated in the air. They were screws, nails, and similar items.

Finally, the hundreds of wooden materials moved to their respective positions.

The screws and nails also followed suit.

As they combined into one, an endless sound resonated.

Tat-tat-tat-tat-tat-tat!

Thud-thud-thud-thud-thud!

The secret of Emergency Craftinging is that it hammers away according to the number of times entered.

Hyun-soo entered them without a moment’s hesitation.

And then, the slowly emerging form.

Arte’s eyes trembled.

“H-how can something like this be made so quickly…?”

A total length of 20 meters.

A height that far surpassed giant monsters.

The dragon’s head shape at the very front.

[This must be the most perfect crafting method.]

The effect application rate shines the most when crafted perfectly.

[Effect application rate is 98%.]

Arte gazed at it and asked,

“What on earth is that?”

Its appearance was too bizarre.

Hyun-soo smiled slightly.

[Geumshinjeonseon (Golden Divine Warship)]

“There were only twelve.”

[Sangyusibi (Twelve Remain)]

“A ship that defeated 330 enemy ships and saved the country with just those twelve.”

[The most perfect creation.]

“It’s a turtle ship.”

[The seventh legend is written.]

[Unbreakable]

[You have found a breakthrough in a desperate moment.]

[The completed ship’s effects are 8% more outstanding.]

Arte was amazed. The ferocious energy emanating from the ship was beyond common sense.

Screech!

And the griffon swarm was closing in.

The turtle ship floated in the air.

The completed ship descended onto the mountain’s tidal wave.

Hyun-soo, aboard the turtle ship with Arte, said,

“Hold on tight.”

Finally, the massive warship landed on the snow.

Rumble…

The secret of the seventh legend was revealed.

[The defense of this ship is three times that of a normal ship.]

[No physical impact can easily break this ship.]

It was at a marvelous level.

Three times the defense of a normal ship.

In reality, it would have been impossible. But when creating the most perfect something, Ares grants rewards.

Additionally, it was the power of Hyun-soo’s custom crafting to write the contents of that reward.

‘Why did he tell me to hold on tight?’

Arte wore a puzzled expression.

Contrary to his words, the ship itself was so perfect that it didn’t shake at all.

Here, the second secret was revealed.

[Turtle Ship Acceleration]

[The turtle ship moves at twice the speed.]

Whoosh!

The sails unfurled.

A strong wind blew south, which was directly below.

Flap!

Screech!

The griffons tried to attack the two of them.

But the sails tightened, and the accelerating turtle ship shot forward.

Rumble!

Arte felt the ship violently shaking as it plummeted downward.

The scenery around them blurred as it passed by quickly.

Then, his eyes widened.

The dozens of trees and piles of rocks ahead stood firmly, even after enduring the landslide.

“U-ugh!”

Arte hurriedly moved to protect his face, expecting the ship to break apart.

But Hyun-soo had seen everything on the mountain.

The reason for including custom crafting that extremely increased the ship’s defense was revealed here.

Crash!

The turtle ship advanced, smashing through trees and rocks.

The flying monsters in the sky couldn’t keep up with the speed of the turtle ship.

Moreover, the force of the landslide weakened as it descended the mountain.

With all of this calculated by Hyun-soo, the turtle ship vibrated greatly.

Rumble…

[Turtle Ship Second Acceleration]

[The turtle ship moves at three times the speed.]

Whoosh!

Propelling itself forward, the turtle ship sped down without losing momentum.

Arte was in awe.

The Beres mountain range where he had been trapped for 300 years.

But now, this single ship was leading him to a new world in the blink of an eye.

The duration of the leveled-up Emergency Crafting was 50 seconds.

In just 20 seconds, they had descended nearly half of the Beres mountain range.

Just watching the passing scenery, just escaping from near the tower made Arte feel happy.

He finally made a decision.

Hyun-soo stood at the front, vigilant of their surroundings.

Arte’s hand touched his back.

[A skill creation for you is beginning.]

***

Hyun-soo, with a puzzled expression, started to turn around.

“Don’t look back, it’s a bit embarrassing.”

Arte’s voice was gentle, markedly different from when they first met.

“Originally, I would have given this to you only after completely escaping.”

They had not yet escaped this place.

“In truth, I’m also called Eccentric Arte.”

The reason he’s called Eccentric Arte.

“Do you know? I said I’d create a skill for you, but I never said what grade it would be.”

“……”

Hyun-soo smiled wryly.

Arte might have intended to simply give him a rare-grade skill.

“Skill creation is a trait I possess, but I cannot create recklessly.”

If he could produce skills indiscriminately, Arte would have been called a god.

Such is the greatness and majesty of skill creation.

“I can create 100 rares in my lifetime, 30 epics, and 5 uniques. And.”

Warmth radiated from Arte’s fingertips.

“Every 10 years, I can forge exactly two legendary skills.”

Hyun-soo heard it.

[The power of a legend is imbued in your body.]

“…!?”

Hyun-soo was astonished. Arte was giving him his most precious legend at this moment.

“This energy will read your information and bestow the most suitable power upon you.”

Skill creation, akin to custom crafting.

“Remember, the power you possess is still weak.”

It refers to the level.

“Just like the Sword King’s skill, and like the skill of the Spear Heaven, this too may need to grow continuously.”

Immediately, additional power was imbued.

[You have received 3 temporary skill creations for yourself.]

“This is a consumable skill that can be used only once. Since it is imbued in your body, use it when needed. It will manifest unique powers within the appropriate rules.”

In other words, Hyun-soo can use three consumable skills as he desires.

“By the way, creating a legendary skill will take some time.”

Hyun-soo felt it.

Slowly, Arte’s hand was gently stroking his back.

“When you first said you would climb the mountain, I doubted and denied you. When you came through the blizzard, I was genuinely impressed. I was happy when you treated my baldness, and I was grateful when you shot an arrow at Grout to return my pain.”

Hyun-soo smiled slightly. Though the time was short, he and Arte had grown close, and now Arte acknowledged him.

“You really did your best. May I ask why?”

Hyun-soo spoke of the rough sensation in his mouth.

“…I wanted you to visit your mother’s grave.”

Of course, the biggest reason was for the reward. But this was also true.

Hyun-soo shared the story of himself and his father.

“Even when I am right in front of him, I cannot talk to my father. And you, 300 years ago, had to part with your mother without understanding why.”

And Arte must have worried about her all his life.

Such stories create a bond of empathy.

Arte spoke softly.

“Thank you. With you here, I have no worries, even if a seat becomes vacant.”

Hyun-soo had a puzzled expression.

Arte spoke as if he was about to leave soon.

And the hand on his back began to tremble.

“To become a legend, I will step back here.”

“…?”

Hyun-soo’s face twisted as he turned around.

A sword was piercing through Arte’s back.

The one who lifted him up as if he were a bug flung Arte aside.

“Ugh…!”

There, a being was forming, shrouded in a black aura.

[The demon Grout descends.]

[Blood Demon Grout Lv.745]

[The main body descends.]

[There is not a trace of demonic energy.]

[Blood Demon Grout is weakened.]

[Blood Demon Grout is weakened.]

[Blood Demon Grout is weakened.]

Demons never descend to the earth in their true form.

They are greatly weakened when they come to a place without demonic energy.

They avoid descending to prepare for any possible danger.

But this time was different.

“You made me descend in my true form.”

Grout, driven by pain he had never felt before, due to one man, risked even that danger.

And the reason Hyun-soo had added the acceleration function to the turtle ship was to escape the mountain before Grout arrived.

But Grout had descended early and was waiting.

Finally, the weakened Grout revealed his full power.

[Blood Demon Grout Lv.501]

An incomprehensible level. Seeing him, Hyun-soo urgently turned to Arte.

[Arte’s HP drops below 13%.]

“Ugh!”

Arte, coughing up blood, turned pale.

Hyun-soo sprang from the ground and rushed at Grout.

From Hyun-soo, a great power left by Arte stirred.

[Skill search completed.]

[Creation takes time.]

[Starting the creation of the skill ‘Bond’.]

At that time, he didn’t know.

That one skill would change the course of this battle.

And it was heard.

[The final story begins.]

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Survival 127

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“Ugh, my head…”

Was it because I was lying with my head on the cold floor?

A pounding headache struck my skull.

-Crunch.

But there was no time to worry about the headache.

The eerie sound of grinding teeth mixed in my ears.

Undoubtedly, it was the distinct sound of a Wendigo.

Moreover, the killing intent focused on me in this so-called ‘dungeon’ sent chills down my spine.

‘Damn. If I’m not careful, I’ll end up with a nice view of the Styx River.’

Come to think of it, I had never encountered a friendly Doppelganger before.

Though I didn’t sense any presence nearby.

I hurriedly got up and grabbed the Raven claw.

If I lay here idly, the Wendigo’s tale from folklore would come true.

However,

“…Unbelievable. There’s a place like this underground.”

In fact, there were countless underground spaces in the north.

From the cave of the Direwolf I experienced to Bathory’s refuge, and even the northern underworld.

However, this place was on a different level compared to those rough places.

First, there was the grandeur.

Even if not the entire palace, it was spacious enough to fit a palace and a garden carved out of ice in elegant curves, unimaginable as the work of monsters.

In the center, a wooden sculpture of a quadrupedal reindeer stood proudly. Judging by its polished surface, it seemed to have been oiled.

Further away, civilization shone brightly.

Need I say more?

In this frigid space, they were not only covered in thick fur but also lit a fire.

My body had warmed up in the quite cozy air.

‘These reindeers have it easy, huh.’

None of the places I knew in the north allowed fugitives to light a fire properly.

In monster habitats, they lacked the intelligence to kindle a fire, and it was the same for the residents of the underworld.

Lighting a fire in the north meant you had some leeway. If the weak lit a fire, it was like inviting trouble.

So, it mostly belonged to nobles or relatively wealthy classes.

Whoosh.

A fire that seemed quite hot at a glance.

-Growl?

-Crunch.

-Roar!

Around then, the reindeers who noticed my presence had their eyes turn red.

Now I understood their murderous reaction.

To me, this was just a dungeon to farm relics.

But to them, this was their home.

Moreover, in an underground space made of ice, heat was deadly.

Even so, being able to light a fire and play in this place made it the safest haven.

By trespassing here, I was nothing but an intruder.

A tomb raider come to steal their treasures.

Thus, what I had to do was clear.

‘Subdue.’

The quest penalty was for ‘killing’ a Wendigo.

Reasonably incapacitating them to the point of communication would be fine.

With no one watching,

And with the will of Hassan in my other hand,

I glared at the direction from where the sounds of their cries were coming.

-Crunch! 

-Screech! 

The reindeer scraped the ground with their hooves and snorted.

Seeing them already in a battle stance made me sigh.

‘Tsk. Do I even stand a chance?’

The Wendigo wasn’t called one of the top three monsters for nothing.

I had already witnessed its strength.

Camilla and I had to join forces to take one down.

But now, I was alone.

And it was obvious there were more than just one or two Wendigos.

Given that this place was even called a ‘sanctuary,’ there could be dozens, if not over a hundred.

It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to call it impossible.

…However.

‘That doesn’t mean it can’t be done.’

I trust the status window quite a bit.

Despite everything, it shows my current situation most objectively.

If it had been impossible,

[Warning]

[The dungeon difficulty is too high for your party’s level.]

[It is recommended to attempt it after further growth.]

Such a warning would have appeared.

But the system only provided me with information about this dungeon, without any warnings or alerts about dangers.

Thus, with great confidence,

I slowly took a step towards the eyes filled with hostility.

“Stop!”

It was a familiar voice.

The voice of the old man I had heard through telepathy just before entering the dungeon echoed underground.

Not only that, but the dense magic mixed in with the voice was the same as the one that had drawn me here.

“Do not act rashly.”

-Crunch!

“Tsk. The zeal of the young has always been troublesome. It’s problematic if you can’t even recognize a distinguished guest. Calm down and return.”

After a brief struggle,

The owner of the voice appeared from a corner where warmth and light shone.

Thud, thud.

The footsteps were heavy.

He was twice as tall and bulky as any Wendigo I had encountered.

His horns were split in multiple branches, appearing almost metaphysical.

His fangs were completely hidden by his curled lips.

“Welcome, one who has met the qualifications.”

No need to ponder further.

His appearance alone, and the fact that he could speak, made it easy to guess that he was the leader of the Wendigos.

And to support my speculation,

[BOSS]

[Seeker of Shadow]

The status window displayed a title that I hadn’t seen with any other Wendigo.

A noble Doppelganger.

Another intelligent Doppelganger, following the ‘Deceiving Ground Spider,’ had appeared.

“Follow me. This will be a long story.”

The wrinkles on the reindeer’s face twitched.

…Hmph.

I slowly released the grip of my tightly clenched fist.

It was a day I realized that a smiling face didn’t suit beasts very well.

***

Should I call it a Wendigo village?

The inside was not much different from a human settlement.

Living spaces supported by sturdy conifer logs.

A group of Wendigos dancing around a bonfire.

From a distance, it looked like a scene from a fairytale reindeer village.

Strictly speaking, such a peaceful sight was far from the monsters I knew.

Maybe if they were human.

“Does it look similar to humans?”

The massive bipedal reindeer guiding me observed them and casually said that.

“This is unimaginable in the Evildon Empire. There, our kind are treated worse than animals.”

There was a faint hint of sorrow in his old voice.

But.

“Are you trying to evoke sympathy?”

“Oh, you seem to have no interest.”

“I don’t care what hardships your race has faced.”

That was the reality.

[Failure Penalty]

[Permanent loss of the symbol of the Doppelganger King, ‘Shadow.’]

Why did I seek them out?

Simply because they would aid my growth.

There was no chance of developing some deep bond or anything like that.

There was no reason or intention to fall for some common emotional manipulation.

“Then let’s get to the point. Enough with these past stories from history books. I understand you’re facing a crisis you can’t reveal to others.”

What I wanted was a simple deal.

To solve the troubles indicated in the status window,

And receive Shadow’s relic in return.

-Smirk.

With that, the Wendigo revealed its tightly hidden fangs in a smile.

“As the esteemed guest mentioned, we Wendigos are currently facing a great crisis.”

“Tell me, and I’ll resolve it.”

“How reliable. However, every matter has its procedures. The coronation is no different.”

Coronation.

I frowned at the strange word that came out of his mouth.

This was an unheard-of setting in the original story.

‘A coronation… isn’t that an event to enthrone a ruler? Why mention it now?’

Surely this leader isn’t planning to declare himself king… no, that doesn’t seem right.

Besides, if a coronation means there will be a king,

‘Then what about the king’s relic? What about my reward?’

I had no idea.

There was too little information to make a judgment.

So, I asked the only person who could give me the answer.

“Coronation. How is that related to your crisis?”

“It has a very significant meaning. The absence of a king for a race.”

As if choosing his words,

He closed his eyes and scratched his horns against the ceiling of the cave.

“Except for some nobles, there is a degeneration of intelligence, cannibalistic madness, a lack of reproductive drive…”

“What are you suddenly talking about?”

“These are the consequences of the vacancy of our king.”

His gaze turned back to the Wendigos.

“Humans probably know too. Occasionally, some of our kin escape my control.”

Though his words seemed random, I had a feeling I understood something and listened closely.

Wendigos, usually calm but causing trouble at intervals of several years.

It aligned perfectly with Yegor’s explanation.

“The Doppelgangers have lived too long without a king. But now, that dark era will come to an end!”

However,

At that moment, the leader suddenly turned towards me.

‘What’s with those eyes?’

There was a sense of déjà vu in his face.

Not a fanatic, no.

Having seen the members of the Disaster Cult, he seemed even more severe than them.

The flames that had been slowly dying were suddenly burning fiercely.

The previous gentle atmosphere was gone, replaced by eyes filled with joy and obsession, scrutinizing me.

“The one worthy of becoming our king has arrived here!”

“…Is that me?”

When he pointed at me, he nodded his head and horns up and down frighteningly fast.

“This place does not open to those unqualified! Moreover, with that mysterious quality I cannot even fathom, you are truly a candidate for kingship!”

And my thought about that was,

‘Maybe all the Doppelgangers are idiots.’

At this rate, it’s like grabbing someone on the street and demanding, ‘Are you our king?!’

Though I thought it was a bit different, this guy was under the same misunderstanding as the ‘Deceiving Ground Spider.’

The difference was…

“At least you’re better than someone trying to kill me and take my place.”

“Haha. Foolishness almost caused great trouble.”

He continued with a deeply furrowed brow on his reindeer’s face.

“The trial to become king doesn’t end with just that. If there was such a person, I apologize.”

His waist bowed at a 90-degree angle.

It seemed he had now completely decided I was the one to ascend to the throne.

Well, such a misunderstanding was welcome to me.

I could acquire the relic without much difficulty.

I had been wondering how to persuade and move the Wendigos, and this was perfect.

“So, will the coronation solve the issue?”

“It won’t be immediate, but gradually over time, it will get better. It might take decades, no, even centuries.”

‘I’ll grow old and die before that happens!’

I buried that honest thought deep in my heart.

“Then let’s hurry up and get this coronation over with. I’m a busy man.”

After all, they were the ones asking for help.

To maintain an advantage in the deal, I couldn’t drop this high-handed attitude.

“Understood, human guest.”

But my calm demeanor and assumptions were shattered by his next words.

“…What?”

I was extremely confused.

To the point where I made the basic mistake of revealing my bewilderment during a negotiation.

‘So he didn’t mistake me for a Doppelganger?’

His eyes, full of conviction, scanned me before he opened his mouth full of fangs.

“You seem surprised.”

“So you knew I was human.”

Time for a change of tactics.

Since I’d been found out, I’d play it brazenly.

Seeing how he seemed somewhat favorably inclined, it was better to ask directly to resolve my doubts.

“Of course. Although, when we first met, I couldn’t read your emotions, so I was confused.”

“Since when did you notice?”

“Since when, you ask…”

He brought his hand, or rather, his hoof, to his chin as if trying to recall.

“If I had to pinpoint, it would be when I left the Evildon Empire. I heard a prophecy from my parents.”

-The Doppelganger king is not a Doppelganger.

-Find the human who will be king and leave this place.

That shocking statement left my mouth hanging open.

“As far as I know, the king representing a demon race is always from that race.”

It was the same in the game.

The True Dragon as Levain’s king, and even the puppets Vlad and Diamond were a Vampire and a Gargoyle, respectively.

“I understand that as well. But what do the affairs of other races have to do with us? I simply follow the prophecy and my mission.”

Mana gathered in the hoof he had lifted from his chin, revealing a black gem.

“This is….”

“The shadow crystal. It is the treasure symbolizing our king, Shadow.”

The shadow crystal trembled.

Then it slowly floated toward me, as if recognizing the king.

However, its journey was abruptly halted by a force.

“The coronation is simple.”

The Wendigo leader, gripping the gem, flashed his eyes.

“Convince me. Show me you are a trustworthy king.”

“What do you mean by that?”

“Fight me.”

…So it’s not just any dungeon.

A one-on-one with the boss.

The joy that had inflated with the prospect of an easy task deflated instantly.

As I grumbled in disappointment,

“How are you any different from the one who tried to usurp the throne?”

“Fundamentally different. It’s not usurpation, it’s a test.”

The reindeer bowed politely again.

His words sounded plausible.

If it weren’t for the subtle thorns in his sincere tone and the mana that began to move around him.

“Fine. I’ll play along with your wishes.”

Strengthening royal authority often involved suppressing rebellious vassals.

Crushing defiant nobles was, perhaps, a law of nature.

Watching the massive horns I had to tilt my head back to see,

I grabbed my cherished weapons in both hands.

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Act 116

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I couldn’t help but smirk inwardly at such a reasonable statement.

“Surprising. I thought all members of the Donassien family abandoned moral standards for the sake of magic.”

“I didn’t learn magic from the Donassien family.”

Aileen spoke with a self-deprecating laugh, her face reflecting complex emotions.

“When are the test subjects that Lord Aiden was supposed to provide going to arrive?”

At that moment, an unfamiliar voice came from deeper within, and Aileen hastily kneeled and hid behind a shelf.

“What are you doing!? Hide!”

Realizing that someone was approaching, she urgently whispered to me.

Was it really necessary? 

The reason I came here was to prevent the event known as ‘Bloody Tuesday’ from happening in the future. To stop that, I needed to get rid of Aiden’s research logs and his disciples who would continue the experiments.

In other words, the voices we heard now belonged to people who needed to be eliminated.

“It seems like the results will come out soon… huh?”

A wizard stretching and coming towards the entrance caught my eye.

Though I would have liked to greet him pleasantly, now wasn’t the time. 

His bewildered gaze moved past me to the area behind. He was likely checking if the barrier was working properly.

“The barrier is… ugh!”

Before he could finish his exasperated mutter, I kicked him hard. Although I didn’t kick him with much force, he flew like a fluttering butterfly, which was quite an impressive sight.

“Aren’t we supposed to avoid getting caught?”

“Why do you think that?”

“Since you removed the barrier, I thought we shouldn’t get caught…”

Realizing the absurdity of her own statement, Aileen cleared her throat.

“Given the situation, I suppose we should just clean everything up.”

Leaving her to finish my sentence, I began walking towards the wizard I had kicked.

“Cough, cough!”

The wizard, coughing, slowly raised his head and made eye contact with me. Reflected in his eyes was a man wearing a grotesque mask. While it suited my deranged aesthetic sense, it clearly didn’t for him.

“Eeek!”

His face, painted with clear fear, annoyed me slightly. 

It seemed like he saw my mask as some sort of demented art project.

With that thought, I pointed my drawn sword at the wizard’s throat.

“Where are the records of the research conducted here?”

“Who… who are you!?”

Why do you need to know?

As I tightened my grip on the sword handle, a thin stream of red blood trickled down the wizard’s neck.

“Ugh.”

Despite being terrified, he didn’t answer.

Surprisingly, he had some backbone. 

Expecting no significant outcome from wasting more time, I grabbed his neck and dragged him further into the laboratory.

‘There were signs of conversation, so there must be someone inside.’

My prediction was correct. 

Inside the room, which appeared to have more experimental equipment than the entrance, were two people engrossed in their work near a large bookshelf.

“Um, hmm?”

One of them, sensing something was off, looked up and stared in my direction. 

While he seemed unable to comprehend the situation, he turned pale as soon as I pointed the sword at the neck of the already fallen wizard.

“How did you… get here…!?”

“Your reaction was too consistent. It confirmed that I had found the right place. You didn’t even cast a spell and just stood there dumbfounded. I thought wizards were supposed to be smart, but I guess not.”

“Let go of Emil!”

So, the man I was holding was named Emil. The wizard who spoke began to rage, demanding his release.

“Don’t move.”

As I said this, the wizards retreated with frustrated expressions.

‘Anyone seeing this might think I’m the bad guy.’

In fact, if an ordinary person who knew nothing saw this scene, they would likely think that. A strange man in a grotesque mask holding a hostage and making demands—it would certainly look that way.

“Where are Aiden’s research logs?”

“…Logs?”

“The books containing records of the research conducted here.”

Upon hearing this, the wizards’ gazes involuntarily shifted to a section of the bookshelf.

‘There it is.’

Still holding the hostage, I walked towards the bookshelf.

‘What should I do with Aiden’s disciples here?’

I wasn’t afraid of getting my hands dirty, but I still felt some reluctance. 

Or rather, I felt like I was just thinking that I felt reluctant. Seeing the wizard trembling as my hostage didn’t affect me at all.

‘A significant change in my mindset.’

Was I becoming more like Julian? Or had I adapted to Julian’s method acting?

If so, what was my true identity?

As I pondered this, my eyes caught sight of an iron cage.

It was divided into three sections, and one of them contained a demon starting to grow horns, slumped inside.

‘…Hoo.’

A humanoid demon. 

I knew exactly what this meant.

“Now let Emil go!”

A wave of nausea rose in me. 

The fact that I felt any reluctance to eliminate such beings, even for a moment, disgusted me.

“Guh, guh…!”

“Emil!!!”

I changed the way I held my sword and then beheaded the man I was holding. 

A spray of blood arced through the air, and the other wizards screamed at the sight. 

One of them, with a voice filled with despair, began chanting a spell while tears welled up in his eyes.

Seeing this, the other wizard also tried to chant a spell, but…

“Grr…!”

Aileen, who had been hiding, revealed herself and cast her spell first, subduing him.

“You damn bastard, die!”

The tearful female wizard extended her hand, and metallic magic, similar to what Aileen had used, was unleashed.

However, its power was so weak that calling it a fragment would be an exaggeration. 

Even if it had been immensely powerful, as soon as I read its trajectory, it became useless.

I dodged and swiftly closed the distance, pressing my sword against the female wizard’s neck.

“Grrr…”

Not being one to enjoy causing pain, I swiftly drew my sword with all my strength in my right arm.

A horrid sound accompanied the geyser of blood, and the frothing wizard collapsed, her face hitting the ground.

After that, I approached Aileen.

Only one of Aiden’s disciples remained. Though subdued by Aileen, he was dragging himself away, trying to distance himself from us.

“Spare me! I already told you the location of the research logs!”

“How pathetic.”

I briefly glanced at the human-shaped demon locked in the cage.

“Didn’t they beg for their lives from you as well?”

“…We… we were conducting experiments! Any technological advancement requires sacrifices!”

“Then consider this part of technological advancement as well.”

Swish!

As the tip of my sword glinted, the wizard who had been begging for his life fell silent, his pleas cut off abruptly.

“….I have mixed feelings.”

“About what?”

When Aileen, who had helped me, spoke up, I questioned her.

“These people, they’re from the Donassien school. I had some acquaintance with them.”

“Were you close?”

“If I were close to them, I’d be lying here dead as well. Even so, I belong to the Donassien school.”

That made sense. Despite being mistreated, her family was still part of the Donassien lineage.

After wiping the blood off my sword, I walked towards the iron cage. 

The human-shaped demon, though lying as if dead, was still breathing.

“We’ve crossed a point of no return.”

“So I’m going to end it.”

“In that case, I’ll do it myself.”

Even though the demon was in this state now, it had once been a person. The emotional burden would be heavy. It might feel like committing murder.

“After all, I’m a member of the Donassien family and a researcher in the school.”

With a tone of repentance, she slowly drew her wand and pointed it at the demon inside the cage.

***

Wizards were taught that satisfying their inquisitive desires before considering morality was a virtue. 

They all said that the benefits of a moment’s moral laxity were more important than the damage to one’s conscience.

‘That is the teaching of the Donassien family.’

Although she had little magical education within the family, she had heard enough of their lofty ideals to make her ears bleed.

‘This is the result of those teachings, Lord Aiden.’

She had never been fond of the noble demeanor of the Donassien family.

After this incident, her dislike of the family’s teachings was beyond mere words.

“We should deal with these things.”

An all-too-familiar voice broke through Aileen’s contemplation.

The Black Knight. A man in a grotesque yet inexplicably sophisticated mask.

“I wonder what expression Aiden will make when he sees all his precious achievements disappear.”

“It seems you have a lot of grudges against Lord Aiden.”

“Indeed, I had many. I was going to have more, but this prevented that.”

More grudges? What did he mean by that?

Though curious about his words, Aileen decided not to dwell on it. 

After all, it was nearly impossible to understand someone who hid their identity behind a mask.

“This place seems related to the demon outbreaks in the slums.”

“Hmm.”

The Black Knight let out a brief hum as he turned his back.

A moment ago, there was a sense of humanity in his actions as he wielded his sword against the wizards.

It might sound absurd.

However, it almost seemed as if he was angry about actions that defied morality. At least, that’s how it felt to her. Maybe it was just her imagination, but…

“Even if we take this and submit it to the Mage Tower, it won’t be enough to prove Lord Aiden’s crimes, will it?”

Aileen, who had been watching me from behind, spoke up.

“It would be difficult. There’s no way to prove the experiments he was conducting.”

“Right. So, destroying it is the best option.”

With that, Aileen took a jewel from her pocket and threw it at the bookshelf. 

With a crackling sound, the jewel reacted with the mana, igniting a fire that began to consume the bookshelf and its contents.

“Didn’t you find it tempting?”

“Not really.”

The burning books soon turned to ashes.

‘Why did he do this? Was the family’s secret so important?’

These questions arose from the depths of her heart, but like the fading embers, they gradually diminished.

“You seem curious.”

The Black Knight’s words struck a chord.

“Yes, I wondered if this was really necessary.”

“I agree.”

“Agree? But you’re not a wizard.”

“That’s true.”

What is he trying to say?

“Then we should ask the person involved why they did this and what they were thinking.”

“What?”

As a chilling sense of malice prickled her skin, Aileen instinctively glanced towards the entrance of the laboratory.

There stood a man with fierce eyes and a murderous expression.

Aiden de Donassien.

The owner of this laboratory had appeared.

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Round 68

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Purururuk-

A gigantic body constantly changing colors.

Its flashing eyes were quite intimidating.

The beast, surrounded by something like clouds, stood still in front of Ara and me, watching us.

The sight felt incredibly fantastical.

“Purururuk!”

“Huh?”

Ara waved cheerfully and approached.

I tilted my head at the unexpected name that came out of Ara’s mouth.

‘Is that really Pururuk?’

A cute monster in the shape of a deer.

I remembered it transformed into a long serpent and disappeared before, but I never imagined the monster in front of us, resembling a haetae, would be part of the same deer group.

Sasasasat-

As Ara approached, the form of the gigantic haetae scattered.

The small deer we had seen before energetically wagged their tails and greeted Ara.

Such an incredible affinity.

“Are you well! Hehehe.”

Ara laughed broadly, surrounded by the approaching deer.

Gomgom in her arms, startled by the sudden situation, struggled and waddled over to me.

-Roar, Roar! Roar!

I picked up Gomgom, who was gesturing to be held, and watched Ara and Pururuk.

“Oh! Really?”

-Purururuk! Pururuk!

“Then you will give us a ride?”

-Pururuk!

Huh. The conversation seemed to be taking an odd turn.

“Ara, did you say they would give us a ride?”

“Yes! I said we wanted to go to the Glittering Tree, and they offered to take us!”

I turned my gaze to the small horned Pururuk.

It looked at me with sparkling eyes as if asking us to trust it.

“How are they going to… Ah!”

Could it be that they would transform into a gigantic animal like earlier and give us a ride?

That seemed possible.

“I want to ride it!”

“Alright. Shall we give it a try?”

It was an unexpected help.

As I nodded, Ara quickly made the request, and Pururuk began to merge into two groups.

This time, they transformed into a beast resembling a horse.

Upon closer inspection, I noticed they even depicted horns.

‘Is that… a kirin?’

Not the giraffes from the African plains, but the mythical kirin.

Now it seemed that all the transforming animals were mythical creatures.

Certainly, such animals were good for imposing, but how did these creatures know and mimic mythical animals?

“Could it be that they are the originals?”

If the mythical animals we knew were all creations of Pururuk and then passed down to us…

…but that’s just a wild guess.

These mythical animals existed long before dungeons and awakeners appeared, so people couldn’t have seen Purururuk first.

Setting aside such unnecessary thoughts, I climbed onto Pururuk, who had transformed into a kirin.

I was slightly worried it might collapse, but I was amazed to see it stabilize quickly for us to board.

“Ooh! It’s fast!”

Ara’s Pururuk started running first.

I wondered how the horse-like Purururuk would run through the forest, but it was a needless worry.

They moved freely in all directions, overcoming and leaping over various obstacles.

“Ugh.”

As a result, I was feeling nauseous.

“Kyahaha!”

-Roar! Roar!

On the other hand, Ara and Gomgom were cheering excitedly, which was quite impressive.

Maybe it was due to the ride that even made me, an awakened one, feel nauseous.

We reached the vicinity of the World Tree in less than an hour.

“It certainly is fast.”

Once I got somewhat used to it, the nausea subsided.

Just as I began to enjoy the speed, we arrived, leaving me feeling a bit disappointed.

-( *๑•̀д•́๑)」!!!

-(′σωσ`)ﾉ!

The Alfheims greeted us warmly.

However, they seemed wary of Pururuk, as if they had never seen its true form before.

-Oh! The Grand Lord has arrived!

“Long time no see, Frey.”

I got off the Pururuk, who had worked hard, and patted its back before saying goodbye.

Ara also jumped down and waved vigorously.

“It was fun! Let’s ride again next time!”

Purururuk-!

As soon as the Pururuks in kirin form disappeared, Frey cautiously approached and spoke.

-As expected of the Grand Lord! How did you tame those terrifying beasts…!

“Do you know them?”

-Of course! Around the World Tree, there are often fearsome beasts roaming about. The ones we just saw are what we Alfheims call ‘cloud horses.’

It seemed they didn’t know the true identity of Pururuk.

“Frey, have you ever seen small deer around here?”

-Yes! They are very timid and weak creatures! We call them cowardly deer!

“I see.”

It seemed the Alfheims saw Purururuk and its transformed appearances as separate entities.

I considered clearing up the misunderstanding, but it felt awkward to expose the survival strategy of the Pururuks that had helped us, so I let it be.

“In the future, even if such scary creatures appear, don’t be afraid. They are all friends with Ara and me now.”

-Gasp! Have you already conquered this entire area in such a short time! As expected of the Grand Lord!

“Well, something like that.”

I felt a slight pang of conscience due to Frey’s admiring gaze, but I laughed it off. This guy always reacts this way no matter what I do.

“By the way, how is the Meluca flower doing? Is it growing well?”

-It’s growing at an astonishing rate! Faster than I expected, which makes me a bit uneasy.

Perhaps because the slimes were nurturing it, the Meluca flower seemed to be growing quickly.

I took out the poison from Poispois inside Bokkeum.

-This is…?

“It’s poison. I heard the Meluca flower needs poison to bloom, so I brought some, but I’m not sure if it will work.”

-Oh! We were just struggling with the poison issue, so this is a relief.

“I’ll say it again, I’m not sure if it’ll work. It’s not that strong of a poison.”

-We’ll give it a try. Thank you, Grand Lord.

The fairies scurried over, lifting the poison bottle I handed them with some effort. Next time, I’ll bring it in smaller bottles.

“Let’s check on our friends first and see how much the Meluca flower has grown.”

-Yes! Follow me! Kids, bring some honey for our guests!

As we walked towards the Meluca field, the slimes, busy with their tasks, greeted us warmly.

Squirm!

“How have you been?”

Squirm- Squirm!

Three newly enlisted slimes approached and rubbed against us. Enjoying their affectionate gestures, Ara and I petted the slimes as the fairies brought the honey.

-Here’s the honey!

“Thanks. We’ll enjoy it.”

When I brought Young-seong over, we didn’t take any honey, so there was quite a bit stored up.

“Isn’t this too much? Did you overdo it?”

-Since we’re cultivating the Meluca flower, we’ve reduced the number of people searching for it and established a new honey harvesting department!

It’s a bit startling when they brief me as if they were a company. We don’t even know if the Meluca flower cultivation will succeed, but they’ve already done all that?

‘I need to level up Poispois immediately.’

Honestly, I thought the current poison might be insufficient, and I hoped the next stage of poison would work.

Ultimately, it means I need to synthesize and level up Poispois urgently.

The fairies brought the honey in plastic containers and wooden cases that I had given them before.

They seemed to have crafted the wooden boxes because of a shortage of plastic containers, but the quality was excellent.

“Oh, these are pretty!”

-Glad you like them!

“Did you make these?”

-Yes, we did.

The boxes were beautifully decorated with intaglio and relief carvings, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship.

The finely detailed leaf designs and geometric patterns conveyed a sense of artistry.

“Did you make this with pieces of the World Tree?”

-Yes! We used the wood chips that were lying around!

Wow, this is luxurious.

A honey container made from the World Tree would be unbelievable to most people. However, the unique fragrance of the World Tree subtly emanating from the wooden box was unmistakable.

“Do you have a lot of World Tree fragments?”

-An enormous amount!

“Then, would it be okay if I took some to use later?”

-Of course! Asking for permission to use resources while borrowing the dungeon shows what a noble ruler you are!

Hehehe. I was planning to build a house on the plot we prepared, and now I can secure the materials!

Of course, finding an architect and workers is still an issue, but that can be solved gradually.

After enjoying some honey and admiring the fairies’ carving skills for a while, I stood up. Since we’re here, I should check on the Meluca flower’s condition.

“It’s grown so much.”

The Meluca flower had grown up to my waist. I had only seen dried flowers before, so this was my first time seeing the stalks.

“Will it start to bud soon?”

-It looks like it will!

“Give the poison to the slimes in advance. They probably know the right timing to use it.”

-Understood!

Frey, responding like a diligent soldier, immediately ordered the poison stored in the World Tree’s dwelling to be brought out as I had instructed.

‘But isn’t the land a bit small?’

For now, we had only planted a few as a trial, but if it was successful, we would need to plant much more.

I didn’t know the exact number of fairies, but just a few flowers wouldn’t be enough to produce sufficient honey.

However, even if we wanted to plant more flowers, there wasn’t much open space around here.

“Frey.”

-Yes!

“If the flower cultivation succeeds, won’t we need to plant more flowers?”

-Hmm, indeed, this isn’t enough.

“But the land here is already too small to plant more. What do you plan to do?”

-How about scattering them in various places?

“Wouldn’t that be hard for our slimes to manage?”

As I awkwardly explained to the earnest Frey, her eyes widened, and she clapped her hands.

-That’s true! Then we need to find more spacious land!

“It might be a good idea to create an area entirely covered in Meluca. If it’s possible.”

-Oh, oh…

Frey, seemingly lost in imagination, had a dreamy expression and drooled a little. Did she like the idea that much?

“I’ll also look for suitable land. You guys should do the same in your own way.”

-Understood!

“And if we succeed in cultivating Meluca, would it be okay to grow other flowers when we have more resources?”

-Other flowers?

“Yes. They could be good for ornamental purposes and useful for honey harvesting as well.”

The plants here were unlike anything on Earth.

It seemed like they could be good as ornamental gifts and might also be useful as medicinal herbs or other purposes.

-We will do our best.

Frey replied with a serious expression.

I shook my head, worrying that the fairies might overexert themselves again.

“For now, focus on the Meluca. Until then, don’t worry about anything else. Actually, don’t do it at all. Got it?”

-Understood!

They sure know how to respond well.

I gently patted Frey on the head with my finger before heading back to where the others were.

There, Ara and Gomgom were engrossed in something.

To be precise, Gomgom had its nose to the ground, doing something, while Ara watched.

“What are you doing?”

“We found mushrooms!”

“Oh, mushrooms!”

I had forgotten, but it seemed Gomgom had sniffed them out. Looking closely, it was near the roots of the World Tree.

It seemed the mushrooms Gomgom mentioned were absorbing nutrients from the roots of the World Tree.

-Kuung.

“Oh! Found it!”

“Where, where?”

Gomgom began digging earnestly.

However, the small bear’s strength and paws were slow.

“I’ll help!”

Ara rolled up her sleeves and started digging alongside Gomgom. Soon, I could smell a peculiar fragrance.

“Is this smell…?”

-Oh? It’s a unique scent. It’s like the concentrated fragrance of the World Tree!

If this was the smell of the mushrooms, it was definitely promising.

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