ACT 3 Lee Myung-ryongs Humiliation

What on earth did you do?

A grey haired middle aged person asked with a sharp glance.He was the section chief of the Police Agencys SWAT forces, Cho Young-hwan.

Nothing much.

The person replied in a curt voice. Bad dress, bad posture, bad attitudethe man was the captain of the number 1 SWAT team, the number 1 hooligan known as Lee Myung-ryong.Cho Young-hwan shot Lee Myung-ryong an annoyed look and said.

Are you really going to act like this?

What do you mean?

I dont know the circumstances but did you bark at someone at the top?

Barking wouldnt change anything.

Cho Young-hwan approached the desk.

..That is why this situation happened.

I never denied that. I just didnt want to say it.

Hey, Lee Myung-ryong.

Cho Young-hwan pressed a finger to his temple and rebuked him.

Dont I know you? Dont you know me?

Weve gone to the public baths together so of course I know you.

Dont joke around. But yes, there are many members of the Police Agency who knows all the scars on my body. It is a part of our lives. In the field, one mistake can mean being unable to dodge a bullet or having a sashimi knife stabbed in your back. And everybody in the police force is prepared for that.

You shouldve gone to the National Assembly. You would gather all of the polices votes.

Dont joke around!

Cho Young-hwan struck the desk with his fists.The fists which hit the desk were covered in scars.Although he was now sitting at a desk, a few years ago he was also a member of the SWAT team. The Bear of the National Police Agency. It was the nickname the delinquents gave to Cho Young-hwan.

Im a public servant. Wearing wound dressings is useless. But its done. Someone at the top aimed a bullet at me and it hit.

Lee Myung-ryong replied coldly.

Hwa-rang sunbaenim also exited the Police Department with a limp.

You really!

Cho Young-hwan jumped and blushed. Lee Myung-ryong noticed this and glared while muttering.

I dont need to complain to section chief. Dont you know? It is an amazingly accurate hit to be random. No, it is like theyre trying to make it look accidental.

Cho Young-hwan was silent for a moment before pulling out a cigarette. Before the smoke reached Lee Myung-ryong, the cigarette butt was pressed into the pile of butts on the ashtray.Cho Young-hwan took a deep breath and inhaled the smoke into his lungs.

I know how you feel..but there are quite a few people youve offended.

Offended? Yes, I am furious.

Lee Myung-Ryong gave a cynical smile and nodded.Yes, fury was building up in his throat even though he was laughing.He wanted to search for the criminal but he was quite cynicalAn incident took place this morning.He had exited the gym after finishing his usual workout. All of a sudden he was summoned to the section chiefs office and told that he would be joining the Special Crimes Countermeasures unit.

That asshole.!

Lee Myung-ryong had a quick mind.No, he wasnt smart in the conventional sense. He had entered the police force thanks to his history as a national taekwondo representative. He had barely passed the test to enter. But he had a keen sense of smell about shady dealings.Special crimes countermeasures

It was the name of the department which dealt with violent crime.However, it wasnt the investigation but measures unit. That meant gathering information at a desk about the criminals before the committed an incident. And then handed over the clues to the investigation department. It was a paid position which required little work.The normal workers wouldve graduated from college, but to have a SWAT team member join ityet the announcement was that Lee Myung-ryong would join that department.However, Lee Myung-ryong immediately understood the situation when the section chief explained it.No, he had actually been expecting it for several days.

Lee Kyung-Ho.Not long ago, he went to Hyun-woo to visit Andels father.He used to be a part of the prosecution office and was extremely close to the chief of the police force. And Lee Myung-ryong happened to not get along with the police chief.He had confrontations with the police chief after Gwon Hwa-rang was forced to retire.Therefore Lee Myung-ryong was an eyesore to the Chief of the National Police Agency.But since Lee Myung-ryong had good results, he couldnt openly punish him. So Lee Kyung-Ho used his police connections to help smooth the way.This situation was rigged by those two people.It was obviously the wishes of those two humans.They wanted Lee Myung-ryong to either become angry and disobey or resign.

Those civil servants..I would love to beat him up..

Lee Myung-ryong definitely wanted to go to Lee Kyung-Ho and throw his letter of resignation in his face.Since he knew all the circumstances, Lee Myung-ryong wasnt just going to follow their plan. If Lee Myung-ryong left then Hyun-woo would definitely notice.

That guy calms me down pretty quickly.

He smiled while thinking about Hyun-woo.He felt a sense of pride.He was a teacher after all. He didnt want to involve his disciple in this kind of dirty situation.

Dammit, its impossible. That bastard..is the police force his playground? You must know something since youre not arguing about it.

Cho Young-hwan smoked his cigarette with annoyance.

Anyway, thats it. Dont write the resignation letter immediately. Ill wait and observe the situation a little bit more. Please think of it as a couple of months holiday. Ill look for something in the meantime.

Yes.

Ive contacted the section chief there. That fellow will find you a suitable position. Hes a friend so hell look after you. You can go now.

Yes, Ill return if possible.

Lee Myung-ryong replied and left the section chiefs office.

He talked roughly but it seemed like Cho Young-hwan had been truly worried that Lee Myung-ryong would resign. So he contacted the Special Crimes Countermeasures department beforehand to organize a position.

A desk job..I dont know how long I can endure it.

Lee Myung-ryong sighed and slowly headed towards the Special Crimes Countermeasures department.At this point, Lee Myung-ryong never imagined the work that he would be undergoing.

Ah, youre the one Section Chief Cho mentioned. Im Choi Deok-pil and Im in charge here.

Someone approached him as he entered the Special Crimes Countermeasures department.He had the appearance of a typical white-collar employee.

Yes, Im Lee Myung-ryong.

Hahahah, no need to be so formal here. I understand that this announcement mustve been very unpleasant for you. But after seeing Section Chief Chos reactions, you shouldnt be here that long. Well, I hope we bond as a family while youre here.

What do I need to do? Copy? Coffee errands?

Hmm, I think I can put a SWAT team member to better use. Just as well. A position recently became available and I was worried about it. It might suit you. Come one.

Choi Deok-pil led him to a small corner office.Even though it was called an office, there were none of the usual machines. There was just a big circular capsule.

Whats this? A newly excavated dinosaur egg?

Is this the first time youve seen it?

Yes, Im not interested in archaeology.

Choi Deok-pil looked at him before letting out a burst of laughter.

This machine is a game unit. It is a computer designed to connect to a virtual reality game. This unit is dedicated towards the game called New World.

New world?

Lee Myung-ryongs eyes widened.

Dont tell me you havent heard of it?

No, Ive heard of New World.

Im glad. You almost seemed like a caveman just then.

Choi Deok-pil nodded his head.But Lee Myung-ryong had no interest in the middle aged Choi Deok-pil. He was curious about the unit after listening to Hyun-woos words and asked in an inquisitive voice.

But what does this have to do with the police force?

You dont seem to understand yet. These days it isnt very rare to investigate online games. And it increases the departments results.

Choi Deok-pil gave a brief explanation.Those who commit a crime tend to have an excessive amount of free time. Since they cant carelessly wander around, theyre forced to stay in a dimly lit room all day.It is surprisingly hard to endure. Sometimes the criminals even become depressed from hiding and surrender themselves to the police.A virtual reality game is a good way for a criminal to escape their lives.They dont have to risk themselves going outside and they can wander around a different world.

Most of those guys are satisfied living through virtual reality games. They even have a guild in the game..ah, meetings as well. Those guys even have regular meetings where the exchange criminal information and laugh. In that case, findings clues for the meeting is not that hard.

Thats because police personnel were also sent into the game. These investigation methods had been started 10 years ago and were getting satisfactory results.

Then this unit is..?

Yes after the commercialization of New World, weve received information that those fellows have flocked towards that game. So a few months ago, we requested support from Global Exos and received a few test models. This is one of those.

Now he knew why there was a unit in the police agency.But there was still a part which didnt make sense.

As far as I know, I heard that you need to create a user ID to access the game. And the ID must list the social security number and personal information.. If so, couldnt you simply request the information from the company?

Ah my friend, we can but it is not that simple.

Choi Deok-pil shook his head like he had a headache.

You said that they must enter personal information to create an ID. But thats in the old days, now they create an ID using retina scans. Personal information is more hidden than ever. So it has become much more challenging. But that is exactly the problem.

Thats the problem?

Dont you know? Ever since companies have changed security measures to body data a few years ago, the human rights laws have made it incredible difficult to access that data. Currently, the privacy-related data that is stored in the black boxes cant be accessed unless it is related to terrorism at a national level. So the police has to work even harder to get that information.

Choi Deok-pil scratched his head.His mind became complicated just thinking about it.

But what will I be doing?

Thats simple. It shouldnt be that different from actual investigation. Just look for the suspects or the guild based on the information that we give you. Once youve found the suspect then please approach and discover as much information as possible. Their address, telephone number, information about the incident The game also has the ability to videotape such information. Once you record such information than the rest of the team will take care of it.

You want me to investigate in New World?

Thats rightisnt that what we do?

But I only know how to beat people up.

Thats the reason why youre suitable.

Yes? Lee Myung-ryong was bewildered and Choi Deok-pil explained with a grin.

In fact, Ive never tried it out so I dont know. According to your predecessor, New World is different from traditional virtual games. The game is said to be not that different from reality.

Isnt it still a virtual reality game?

Thats right. But New World has a different meaning. The user can utilize their previous knowledge and experience. It isnt 100% of course, but the person with a developed physical ability will be more advantageous. Thats why you were recommended. Although youll only have a little bit of time to learn the game, your physical abilities have been developed over many years.

What are you saying?

Like I said I dont know. It is something your predecessor said. So just learn the game step by step and identify the suspect. Since we cant check their personal information, you wont know who is a suspect inside the game.

Choi Deok-pil handed him a thick stack and papers and continued.

The problem is that all these people have been in the game for a long time and having a considerably high level. With the level difference in online games, even you would have a hard time if you met them. Your predecessor lived in the game for two months and didnt spot even 1 suspect. So we thought of you who is a member of the SWAT team.

Choi Deok-pil took a deep breath and tapped Lee Myung-ryongs shoulder.

However, we want you to play the game casually since investigations inside the game are a supplementary method. For now just casually get used to the game.

Hrmmm..

Lee Myung-ryong rubbed his chin and looked at the unit.Choi Deok-pil wore a subtle smile and asked.

How is it? Will you try?

Well, it is better than fetching coffee.

Choi Deok-pil nodded and tapped his shoulder.

I thought so. The first time isnt that difficult. Because your predecessor raised the character to level 150. The money earned is also quite high. Your predecessor even shed tears when he was forced to go to another game. The porridge has been cooked and given to you. The other employees have more things to do so Ive been quite impatient. Frankly, this is a special employment.

Huh?

Lee Myung-ryongs expression should that he didnt understand.

Didnt this game use raw data? But how can I inherit a character that someone else raised?

Yes, that is usually the case.

Choi Deok-pil nodded.

But like I said earlier, this is a Global Exos test unit. It is used by maintenance staff who check the system, so it is designed to connect with a common username and password. The username and password is written on this piece of paper.

Choi Deok-pil handed him several more pieces of paper and left the office. Lee Myung-ryong and the unit were the only things left in the office.Lee Myung-ryong crossed his arms and stared at the unit.

Youre the controller for New World?

The work that he had to do felt strange.New WorldHyun-woo had raised his curiosity so he tried to play it once. However, he was also called back whenever he tried to enter the game room.He never thought that he would end up playing the game like this.

Well, okay. It isnt bad for a holiday.

Lee Myung-ryong finally entered the unit.He emerged in a small town filled with users.

Oh, is this really the game?

The man looked around curiously.It was a small town, with houses scattered around and a few people visible.The scenery was also different. It was a quiet mountain village surrounded by forest. It was a place for users to rest while travelling around New World. But the commonplace landscape seemed entirely new to the man.

This is a virtual reality game? The earth, wind, and smell..everything feels real.

His worn clothes and heavy bag proved that he wasnt a novice in New World. However, he acted like he was accessing the virtual reality for the first time in the way he touched everything and moved his limbs.Yes, it was Lee Myung-ryong who logged in from the police departments unit.The documents he received included the variety of materials left behind by his predecessor. But looking through documents was not his style.Wouldnt a person who tried soybean paste understand it better than having it explained to them? Therefore Lee Myung-ryong shoved the documents into a corner before accessing New World.Lee-Myung-ryongs reaction when logging into the game was similar to a normal person.Most novice users would marvel at the amazing technology of New World. Even with a dozen years of training his keen sense to the limit, he was still unable to distinguish the difference between reality and the game.

HuhHyun-woo really wasnt joking when he was talking about the game. How did they manage something like this? Im freely moving my limbs so am I really sitting in the unit?

Lee Myung-ryong froze for a moment.He had entered the game but he didnt know what to do.Then, a semi-transparent object flickered in the corner of his eyes. Character information window, bags, etc..it was the icon to view the related information.In fact, most users set these icons as hidden in order to maximize the realism and used commands to open them.However, Lee Myung-ryongs predecessor set the icons for him. Luckily Lee Myung-ryong knew these icons even if he was an idiot with games.

I have to know what type of guy I am. This is?

Lee Myung-ryong touched the icon of a person with his fingers. The character information window showing various numerical values opened.Usually the information of a user who first started the game was simple.However, Lee Myung-ryongs character was level 150. The various additions and changes in the meantime had made the information window complicated.The only things he learnt was his name Isyuram and that he was level 150.

Isyuram..the name is not bad. It somehow seems strong.

Although strength, agility and stamina were all common stats in RPGs, they were simply numbers to Lee Myung-ryong. He didnt know what was high or low.

Sheesh, I dont know what any of this means. Ill slowly examine it later..

Lee Myung-ryong clicked on the icon shaped like a bag.This time the bags opened and a huge number of items were shown.He also saw that he had 800 gold. Although the bags were filled with all kinds of items, he didnt know what they were used for or why he had them.

800 gold? Is this a lot? But what are all these things? Bunch of Rapana leaves? Unicorn horns? Pearl sand? Why the hell am I carrying around things like these?

Other users wouldve drooled if they saw the bag full of expensive items. But Lee Myung-ryong didnt know the value of goods in New World and just saw it as trash.

Oh, I dont know. Lets do something. According to Hyun-woo, you can catch monsters in New World. Will it be similar to a real battle? Okay, first lets look for a monster. But where can I go to find a monster? I just ask someone.

Lee Myung-ryong..no, Isyuram closed the window.And then he roamed around the village for someone with information. Then he saw an old man at the entrance of the village grabbing several people.

You really cant?

..Im sorry.

It should be quite quick with everybodys skill.

The old man begged with a pleading look in his eye.However, the people wearing leather and holding a sword shook their heads.

Were aware of that.

Weve often fought that monster when we came here.

Wed love to help you if we have enough time..

But weve been hastily summoned by the guild.

Well help you next time we drop by.

Hey, we have to hurry. Well be late for the summons.

Okay, lets leave.

The warriors hastily left the village.

Ah, even though they were the first warriors I met after several weeks.

The old man muttered in a desperate voice.

At that time, Isyuram who had been watching the situation approached the old man.

Did you mention a monster?

Huh? You look familiar but who are you?

Oh, Im Lee Myung-ryong..no, Asura. No, Isyuram? No, wait a minute.

Isyuram still hadnt adapted to the game and opened the information window again.

Oh, yes I am Isyuram. I heard you mention somethingthere is a monster?

The old man was confused about the names and just stared at Isyuram. But he just sighed and then nodded.

Im tired of those monsters. They came here several weeks ago and started threatening us and hunting our herds. Therefore it is dealing considerable damage to the village. But as you can see, not many adventurers come to this mountain village. Those were the first warriors I saw in a while and asked them to exterminate the monster. But as you saw, they were too busy and refused to talk to me. Now I dont know what to do..

Then this game really has monsters?

Are you making fun of me?

The old man stared at Isyuram strangely.

Shouldnt you be experienced with monsters?

Anyway, there really is a monster?

Uh huh, but will you be enough? Yes, its a monster. So what do you want?

Annoyance showed in the old mans eyes.However, Isyuram ignored it and spoke quickly.

Since this is a game then shouldnt I deal with it for you?

What?

The old man looked Isyuram up and down.And then he asked incredously.

Were you serious just now?

Why wouldnt I be?

Ah, no..I honestly would love any help just now..if you get rid of the monsters then Ill be grateful.ah, right. Do you have any colleagues with you?

No, I dont need any.

Eh? There is no one?

Just leave it to me. Where is it?

That hill over there is where they first appeared. If you dispose of 50 then Ill be grateful..

A message window appeared in front of Isyuram after the old man finished speaking.

Gnoll extermination (Repeatable Quest)

Youve met the old man in the unknown town who is in a predicament.

A group of monsters has appeared and is threatening the safety of the village. If you kill 50 gnolls and collect their tokens then the old man will compensate you. But you shouldnt expect a great reward since it is a small village. You can expect warm food, a bed and some silver.

<Difficulty level: D>

Would you like to accept the quest?