Crevon’s princess, Araha, watched as they suppressed the demons’ attack. Her heart beat with excitement as she witnessed a battle for the first time filled with screams, explosions, magic power, and the smell of blood and metal.

— Kuak!

— Kuuk!

Araha turned to the martial artist sitting next to her after watching this carnage.

“Aren’t you going to fight, Sir Lü Bu?”

“I’m here to protect Prince and Princess.”

Lü Bu briefly replied as Araha smiled. She could see Lü Bu holding back his desire to join.

“You can go if you want. I’m stronger than I look. I can defend myself.”

“…”

Lü Bu shook his head. Chwaaa— A golden flash of light annihilated a group of monsters. Lü Bu and Araha simultaneously turned in that direction. The black-haired young man looked powerful and also incredibly handsome. Lü Bu stared at him with a burning gaze.

[MasterHolySword]

He held a shining sword befitting his name. The man seemed to be dancing as he displayed his swordsmanship. His holy sword slashed through magic power and every monster with ease.

Lü Bu’s gaze grew deeper as MasterHolySword displayed his strength. Araha easily saw through his heart.

“You want to fight him?”

“... No.”

Lü Bu obviously lied and suddenly felt a gaze. It carried the same emotions as his own.

“…”

Lü Bu turned to the side and spotted a robed giant. The giant tore off his robe and sent it flying in the air. He stared at Lü Bu with a thick smile.

Lü Bu stood up and received the giant’s gaze. The man slowly walked forward and arrived in front of him.

“Are you an enemy?” Lü Bu asked as he tightened his grip on his weapon, the Square Sky Halberd.

“Cheok Jungyeong.”

The giant replied and Lü Bu’s eyebrows twitched.

“That’s my name.”

“Answer my question.”

“I’ve come to fight you.”

Araha watched them in confusion and panic.

“I don’t have time to deal with personal affairs.”

Lü Bu rejected the giant’s offer as Cheok Jungyeong frowned and turned towards Araha, who blankly stared at the giant.

“In that case…”

Cheok Jungyeong’s large hand reached towards the princess, but Lü Bu grabbed his wrist. The giant exerted even more strength, but his arm wouldn’t budge. Cheok Jungyeong had never faced such humiliation before, but he felt happy.

Their gazes clashed like steel. Then the giant grinned and opened his mouth. A thunderous roar came out.

“Let’s F—I—G—H—T—!”

Cheok Jungyeong’s muscles bulked up like they would explode. His instant, amplified strength shook off Lü Bu’s hand.

Lü Bu fell into a dilemma. He held the Square Sky Halberd, but the opponent didn’t possess a weapon. An honorable fight should take place under the same conditions, but would it be alright to leave behind his beloved Square Sky Halberd? Soon, a faint smile emerged on Lü Bu’s face and his fist shot forward. Cheok Jungyeong also swung and the two warriors’ fists collided. A mighty torrent of magic power erupted and shook the heavens and earth.

***

[3F, Lv.8 Chameleon Troupe’s Hideout]

We returned to our hideout on the 3rd floor six hours later. Boss, Jin Yohan, Jain, and I all appeared fine, but Cheok Jungyeong remained unconscious. He looked thoroughly beaten up and not a single place on his body hadn’t been bruised. We placed him on a bed and spread the stolen items on the floor.

“Wow…” Jain’s eyes sparkled at the treasures in various colors.

“W-What are we going to do with them?”

“Mmm… we can’t sell them because they’re too precious.”

Each item cost at least 150,000 TP, which no player could afford. We would have to use Crevon’s black market or sell to an administrator, but the first option would take at least a year and our items might get stolen with the second option. The administrators might argue that we committed a crime and forcibly take them away.

“So we’re going to split them among ourselves.”

This auction featured more rare and luxurious items than useful ones. For example, the [Cintamani] and the [Crystal Rose]. I only wanted the unique skill book, so I didn’t care how they distributed the rest.

I checked the unique skill once again.

[Lv.8 Unique Skill – Clock Hand of Fate] Fate: You may select up to 8 targets to be your fate. For 3 minutes, your variable stats and special stats will increase by 300% when fighting against your fate. (May be used once every 120 hours). Time Reversal: You may return to the past by 3 minutes. (Will recharge once every 720 hours. Up to 3 charges may be stored). Body Reversal: Will activate when your physical body dies. Your physical body will return to its state 10 minutes before your death. (2 lifetime uses).

Anyone would consider this extremely overpowered. I felt immensely satisfied by today’s haul and kindly spoke to the Chameleon Troupe members looking at me.

“Take something you like.”

“We can?”

Jain was a given, but even Boss and Jin Yohan’s eyes sparkled.

“Of course. Ah, but let me choose one first.”

I picked up [Hwai’s Sword Technique] for Kim Suho. I didn’t know anything about it, but I figured he could use it.

“Me, me! I’ll go next!”

Jain raised her hand and focused on the treasures. Then suddenly…

— Kieeeek!

Spartan suddenly appeared with a piercing sound.

“Ah, another one…”

I felt exhausted, but another group seemed to have arrived at the World’s End Bridge. They must’ve planned on doing so with Crevon in chaos.

“I have to go.”

“…”

Everyone appeared too busy picking out their treasure to mind me. I laughed and activated the portable crystal stele. Then the surrounding scenery instantly changed.

I stood on the watchtower and shot a wooden arrow at the 6 person party walking on the bridge.

— Tak.

The arrow struck the ground in front of them.

— Uwoah!

— Aaak!

— R-Run!

It seemed they just wanted to test the waters in case I wasn’t here.

“Whew.”

I sighed in relief since I didn’t have much energy left. — Tiring. I suddenly received a message.

Nayunjajangman: Hyung!!! Where are you, hyung? Crevon is in chaos right now!!!

Chae Nayun sent a message full of exclamation marks. She wasn’t the type to faint for long. I bitterly smiled as I replied.

Me: I know, but I’m okay. I’m on the 7th floor.

***

The Atalos Royal Family held a commendation ceremony 4 days later to honor Crevon’s soldiers and the outsiders who fought off the demons’ attack. Many players gathered on the royal family’s lawn.

“He’s not here.”

Jin Seyeon also attended the ceremony, but didn’t seem too interested and kept glancing around for someone.

“Are you looking for something, senior?”

Kim Suho walked up to her. He would receive a grade 3 commendation, the highest out of any player.

“Ah, perfect timing, Suho.” Jin Seyeon looked glad to see him. “Where’s Fenrir?”

“Fenrir? You mean Hajin?”

“Yeah!”

Jin Seyeon explained her plan to defeat Black Lotus. Kim Suho nodded with wide eyes after hearing it.

“That does sound like a good plan.”

“Right? Then—”

“But I don’t know where Hajin is.”

“Eh?”

Jin Seyeon tilted her head as Kim Suho awkwardly scratched his neck.

“I don’t even know his nickname.”

“Aren’t you guys friends?”

“We are, but Hajin has many secrets…”

Kim Suho awkwardly laughed and avoided her eyes. Then he suddenly clapped as though he recalled something. The disappointed Jin Seyeon waited for him to continue.

“I think Rachel might know.”

“Rachel?”

“Yep, she’s right over there.”

Kim Suho pointed into the crowd. The beautifully dressed Rachel greeted Crevon’s nobles.

“Ah, okay. Thanks!”

Jin Seyeon hopped over to Rachel.

Aruon Von Atalos Philip watched the commendation ceremony and asked Araha beside him.

“Are you okay?”

Araha looked confused at the sudden question. “What do you mean, elder brother?”

“The Crane Feather Fan…”

“Ah.”

Araha laughed. The demons had stolen almost all the items from the Banquet of Honor and they almost killed Phiunel as well. They clearly wanted the auction’s items from the start.

“It’s fine. Anyways, look at that girl.”

Araha pointed at a blonde girl. Rachel spoke with Jin Seyeon, who had come to find her.

“Apparently, she’s royalty too.”

“She is?”

“Yep, royalty from the outside world.”

“I see.”

Aruon wasn’t too interested in the outside world. Their tiny world couldn’t compare to the tower based on the education he received from the royal court. Aruon felt more concerned about the 300,000 TP Crane Feather Fan than such a small world.

“To lose 300,000 TP like that.”

“Eh? That’s why you looked so down this entire time?” Araha snickered and took out a small machine. It looked like a box with a strange insignia on the lid.

“What’s that?”

“It’s called a tracking device. I placed a mark on the Crane Feather Fan since something like this might happen.”

“You mean…”

“Yep, the Crane Feather Fan is on the 3rd floor right now,” Araha spoke with a bright voice. “I’m planning on asking Lü Bu. What do you think?”

“You can’t command a royal guard by yourself.”

“What? Just because I’m the fifth princess and lower on the hierarchy?”

“Exactly,” Aruon replied coldly.

“Eeeh… hiinng…” Araha pouted.

“But I, the fourth prince, can.”

“Really? Really, really?”

“Yeah.”

Araha smiled at Aruon’s dignified appearance. “Then I want to go with Lü Bu.”

“No.”

“Ah, why not? Then I won’t tell you anything about the fan’s location.”

“You know, the Crane Feather Fan is yours.”

“Hmph, oppa wanted it too. Don’t lie to me.”

“Cough.”

He did spend 300,000 TP. He wouldn’t have spent so much for his younger sister if he didn’t want it too.

“We can talk about this later. The commendation ceremony is starting. Focus.”

***

[Two days later, 8-3F Crevon. Ironblood Duchess’ mansion.]

Five days had passed since the demons’ attack. I leisurely watched the TV in Tomer’s mansion. Well, it looked more like a magic crystal ball. Other than its odd shape, it functioned no differently than Earth’s TV with variety shows, dramas, and even advertisements.

— Who will be the winner of Crevon’s 17th Craftsmanship Tournament?

The host built up suspense as I intently watched the crystal ball.

— The item winning the grand prize is…. dudududu!

Hurry up! We just finished watching an ad. I’ll snipe you if you cut to another one!

— The Wolf’s Fragrance!

I clenched my fist triumphantly.

— The Wolf’s Fragrance is a robe that received the highest praise from all 23 judges! Looking at this beautiful robe makes us suspect whether the missing dwarves have returned! Its elegant patterns look like an ancient work of art and the magic power infused in it truly has exquisite harmony with…

“Whew.”

The host recited the judges’ comments, but I turned the TV off since I knew the results now. I lay on the comfy bed and took out the directory Jain stole from Phiunel.

[Lv.11 Directory] Lv.11 Individual Info: You may view the history of the people you’ve encountered. Lv.11 Detailed Info: You may view the detailed stats of people you’ve encountered. (You may only check up to 3 people’s information every 24 hours. Stats above 11 points cannot be estimated.)

I checked the stats of 2 characters using the directory’s detailed info function.

[Jin Seyeon] ▷Stats: Variable Stats [Strength 9.675] [Stamina 8.350] [Speed 10.050] [Perception ???] [Magic Power 11.000] [Vitality 10.505]

[Aileen] ▷Stats: Variable Stats [Strength 6.950] [Stamina 6.815] [Speed 8.585] [Perception ???] [Magic Power ???] [Vitality 8.135]

“I might be screwed if they come to the bridge now.”

They would overpower me even with their stat restrictions. I couldn’t prevent them from crossing with the addition of Yi Yongha and Shin Jonghak. Of course, I already succeeded in blocking the World’s End Bridge for 3 months. I should be able to block it for a while longer with the Chameleon Troupe’s help. Things would probably be safe if I could hold out for another month.

Tiring— I received a message.

CaptainBritain: Hajin, you’re coming today, right?

“Hmm.”

I had an appointment with Jin Seyeon today. According to Rachel, Jin Seyeon wanted to defeat Black Lotus with me. I wanted to reject such a comedic offer at first, but it seemed like the perfect chance to buy some time and earn SP.

“Let’s see…”

I got up and checked my wardrobe. I wanted to wear casual clothes, but Tomer’s guest wardrobe only contained suits.

“This will do.”

I picked what I liked most.

***

[8-3F, Heart of Crevon, Aileen’s Hideout Sponsored by the Hail Family]

A small change occurred in Crevon’s society after the previous demon attack. A few nobles expressed their desire to sponsor a few players. Of course, only those who displayed overwhelming battle prowess or loyalty during the incident.

“Geez.”

Aileen stood out even among players and could select which noble family to sponsor her. She chose the rich Hail Family with their great vision for the future.

“Is he really coming?”

Aileen grumbled in their luxury hideout. Kim Hajin hadn’t arrived and 30 minutes had already passed since their scheduled meeting at 6. Jin Seyeon glanced at the clock, then at Rachel who flinched.

“He, he said he’ll be here soon… Ah!”

Kiik— The hideout door finally opened and Rachel’s face lit up.

“Looks like Hajin is… here…?”

Aileen, Jin Seyeon, Yi Yongha, and even Rachel tilted their heads. A man wearing a black suit and sunglasses appeared.

“Sorry, I’m late.”

The man bowed as he took off his sunglasses.

“Ah, whew… Why were you late, Hajin?”

“I live far away. Sorry.”

“Um, what’s up with the suit?”

“Ah, well, I’m meeting 2 famous rankers, so I thought I’d dress up for the occasion.”

Jin Seyeon stood up and extended her hand. “Nice to meet you, Fenrir.”

“Ah, yes, me too. You can just call me Kim Hajin. I find the name Fenrir kind of cringy.”

“Sure. Take a seat, Hajin.”

Jin Seyeon guided him to a chair. Kim Hajin sat quietly while Aileen glared at him from the opposite side. Jin Seyeon immediately brought up the main topic.

“I heard Rachel already explained the plan in detail.”

“Yes.”

Jin Seyeon nodded at his reply. She didn’t like to needlessly waste time.

“Then do you mind if we perform a quick test—”

Kim Hajin placed his gun on the table before Jin Seyeon could even finish her sentence. He infused magic power into the gun under everyone’s scrutiny. Then the beautiful handgun transformed into a 1.4 meter anti-material sniper rifle.

“Whoa, is this a water gun?” Aileen’s eyes sparkled as though she found an interesting toy.

“As expected of a gun-related gift…”

Kim Hajin didn’t correct Jin Seyeon’s guess. He transformed the sniper rifle back into a handgun and put it away to not reveal any more information.

“So, about the plan… I heard me, Aileen, and Jin Seyeon will shoot down Black Lotus.”

Everyone nodded at Kim Hajin’s words.

“Yes, we’re thinking about carrying out the plan on Monday in 4 days.”

However, Kim Hajin immediately proposed a different idea.

“All of us won’t be necessary. Give me a month. I can shoot Black Lotus down by myself.”

“Yes?”

“What?”

His shocking statement made Aileen burst into laughter. Kim Hajin looked back and forth between Jin Seyeon and Aileen. They both seemed dumbfounded, but Aileen spoke first.

“You must be crazy. I thought about letting go of the fact that you arrived late because of Seung-Ah, but this… Even without you, we—”

“Wait.” Jin Seyeon raised her arm and stopped Aileen from continuing.

“You can do it alone in a month?”

“Yes, I can make you the first to reach the 9th floor without any flashy plans. Of course, you’ll have to properly compensate me.”

“Like a mercenary mission.”

“Exactly. I am a mercenary and you will be the customer.”

“Wait!” Aileen smacked Jin Seyeon’s arm away.

“What can you do? Also, why a month? It’s not like your water gun will change in a month—”

Jin Seyeon raised her arm once again and stopped her. “Do you have a method?”

“I’ll explain later.”

“No!” Aileen pushed Jin Seyeon’s arm down to speak up. “Tell us now—”

Jin Seyeon raised her arm once again and stopped Aileen.

“Haaaa… I can only be patient for so long…” Aileen’s eyebrows shook with genuine anger.

“Move.”

“What do you mean?” Jin Seyeon tilted her head with a straight face.

“Move your arm!”

“Ah.”

Jin Seyeon placed her arm down. Aileen fumed as she glared at Jin Seyeon, but Jin Seyeon only focused on Kim Hajin.

“Why do you need a month?”

Kim Hajin leaned against his chair at Jin Seyeon’s question. Then he spoke with a serious tone, “It’s better to have more time.”

“What? See, you can’t trust this kid—”

Jin Seyeon raised her arm once again.

“I find that hard to believe. Black Lotus currently stands at the peak of players. Without knowing your strength, we can’t blindly… hm?”

Jin Seyeon felt something wet on her arm and curiously turned sideways at Aileen biting her arm.

“What are you doing, Lady Aileen?”

“I told you not to put up your arm—!”

“Um… ah, it hurts. It hurts.”

Jin Seyeon didn’t feel even the slightest pain, but said so out of courtesy.

“Uuuuu!”

“Let go, Lady Aileen. Let go, I’m sorry.”

Aileen bit down and even gritted her teeth while Jin Seyeon pretended to be in pain. Kim Hajin and Rachel held back from laughing.

“Hmph.”

After some time, Aileen let go of Jin Seyeon and glared at her instead.

“Try that one more time and see what happens.”

“Yes, yes, I’m sorry.”

Kim Hajin felt proud of himself for holding back his laughter as he took out his handgun.

“Well, you see, I can defeat Black Lotus because of a simple reason. It’s a matter of suitability.”

“Suitability?”

“Yes, you could say I’m his perfect counter.”

Kim Hajin transformed his handgun into a shotgun. He turned to Aileen after loading it with bullets.

“Lady Aileen.”

“What?”

Aileen seemed embarrassed by her previous display and averted her gaze.

“Try using a barrier.”

“Barrier?”

“Yep, with full power. I’ll break it easily.”

A thick silence descended in the room. No one dared to make any noise as Aileen looked at Kim Hajin in a daze. She didn’t look angry or displeased, only 100% astonished.