7

ICE-SLAYER HUNTING

“Jinwoo!” Songyi welcomed Jinwoo with tears in her eyes.

“Captain!”

They weren’t as emotional as Songyi, but the faces of the two male hunters lit up, and Heejin heaved a big sigh of relief upon seeing him. Jinwoo didn’t have time to respond to his teammates’ welcome, though.

“Shhh.”

He placed a finger to his lips. The other four had been about to go in for a hug, but they froze.

Heejin spoke first. “Wh-what?”

That damn bastard deserved to be beaten to death. Jinwoo glared at the unconscious Chul.

“He brought along some uninvited guests.”

He could sense numerous presences in the forest. There was no time to consider whether Chul had led them here on purpose, because the real problem was over there.

Hwoom.

Sensing that Jinwoo was aware of their presence, the Ice Slayers deactivated Stealth and made themselves known. There were around twenty of them. And with them…

Jinwoo’s eyes were fixed on a long-haired Ice Slayer riding a horse.

……That’s the dungeon boss.

Compared to the ice bears or even the other Slayers around it, the energy the boss emitted was off the charts. If that wasn’t the boss, then what else could be?

For the first time in a while, Jinwoo felt uneasy.

At the same time, the boss had also assessed Jinwoo.

“So it’s true. There is treasure among the human trash.”

“What?”

“……?”

The boss was startled by Jinwoo’s outburst.

“You… Do you know our language?”

Jinwoo was just as floored.

How am I able to communicate with it?

He understood the magic beast’s language. Not only that, but he was able to speak it as well. The language he’d never learned flowed out of him as naturally as his mother tongue.

“You can speak their language?” Heejin had been flabbergasted so many times that it was par for the course by now.

Her words confirmed that Jinwoo was the only one who understood what the boss had said.

Is this because of the system?

Was it like an auto-translator?

Jinwoo met the boss’s gaze as it scrutinized him with interest.

“We can communicate… Good. There is someone I’d like to introduce you to.”

The boss pointed at an Ice Slayer standing behind it. “I believe you two have met before.”

Jinwoo’s eyes narrowed. The Ice Slayer definitely looked familiar.

That bastard is……

It was the one who’d shot an arrow at Songyi and mocked him. How could he forget that arrogant mug?

That Ice Slayer was smiling even now.

“I said there was a strong one among the humans. This one wishes to challenge you to a batt—”

Even before the boss finished its sentence, Knight Killer was hurtling toward the Ice Slayer.

Shunk!

The dagger lodged right in the middle of the Ice Slayer’s face.

“Whoa!” The squeal came from among the hunters. Kijoong quickly covered his mouth.

Whump.

The Ice Slayer hit the ground. Jinwoo held out his hand, and Knight Killer dislodged from the Slayer’s face and flew back to him. He caught it in a reverse grip and lowered his stance.

“Anything else to say?”

The boss was impressed. “……You really are strong.”

It got off the horse but didn’t brandish a weapon or display any hostility.

It continued leisurely. “But I’m sure you’re aware that you wouldn’t be able to defeat all of us.”

There were over twenty ice elves, and the boss was among them. The rest of the Ice Slayers were no match for Jinwoo, who had leveled up considerably by killing ice bears. One of the Slayers had already died by his dagger.

How should I deal with them?

As the gears turned in his head, the boss continued. “I have a suggestion for you.”

“Suggestion?”

“That’s right. It won’t be such a bad deal for you.”

“……”

Jinwoo was amazed.

It was well known that humanoid magic beasts had intellect, but he never thought he could make a deal with one. Jinwoo decided to hear it out at least.

“……I’m listening.”

The boss laughed, as if it had expected this reaction. “Let me ask you one thing.”

“……?”

“Why are you allied with these humans, even though you yourself are not one of them?”

Jinwoo’s brow furrowed. “What the hell are you talking about?”

“Ha-ha! You weren’t aware, either?” The boss burst out laughing and pointed at its temple. “We hear a constant voice in our heads that tells us to kill humans. But standing before you, I don’t hear that voice.”

Ah. So that’s what it meant? In that case, Jinwoo had a potential explanation.

When it talks about humans, it probably means hunters.

Since the underground temple—thanks to the system—Jinwoo had become a Player, so to be pedantic, he was a little different from other awakened beings called hunters.

That’s why it thinks I’m not human.

That made sense to Jinwoo. As it appeared he understood, the boss nodded. “We don’t need to fight. I don’t want needless casualties on our side.” The boss finally got to the point. “Just hand over those humans behind you. Then, I will guarantee your life. How does that sound?”

Jinwoo had a question in return. “Let me ask you something.”

“Certainly.”

“Who are you? Where are you from, and why are you trying to kill humans?”

“We are—”

Suddenly, the boss’s face, smile and all, froze. It didn’t last long. The boss then relaxed its smile and spoke again.

“We don’t need to fight. I don’t want needless casualties on our side.”

What is this?

Jinwoo’s eyes narrowed.

The boss had repeated the same lines, like some NPC in a game asked a question it was unable to answer.

“Just hand over those humans behind you. Then, I will guarantee your life. How does that sound?”

Its expression appeared unruffled, the creature apparently unaware that it was acting strange. The Ice Slayers behind the boss also were also seemingly oblivious to their boss’s sudden odd behavior.

……

Because Jinwoo wasn’t saying anything, the boss gave him a nudge. “Will you accept my offer?”

Jinwoo wanted to find out more about the magic beasts, but it was a waste of time.

Well then……

The only thing left was to make a choice. His mind was already made up.

“No.” Jinwoo smirked.

I would love your shadow, so I can’t let you go.

Kill the boss and take the shadow. That had been Jinwoo’s plan from the moment he’d laid eyes on the boss, and he had no intention of changing it now.

“Are you challenging my soldiers and me? You’re outnumbered. Do you think you can do this alone?”

Jinwoo smiled. Soldiers?

You think you’re the only one? I have soldiers, too.

He summoned his shadows. The minions trapped in his shadow appeared behind him in an instant.

“Ahhh!” The scream again came from Jinwoo’s group. The shadowy bears and soldiers had materialized next to Kijoong, startling him and making him trip over his feet.

“A-ah……”

Jinwoo felt bad for his teammates, whose faces had turned pale, but it was a moment of crisis, after all. There was no time to explain everything.

Well, even if there wasn’t a crisis, I wouldn’t explain anything to them.

Twenty-nine shadow soldiers. Jinwoo stood before his army and glared at the boss.

“Who’s outnumbered now?”

Finally, the boss growled. “……Nice party trick. Fine. If you wish to die, I’ll grant you that wish.”

The boss drew two daggers from its waist. This was what Jinwoo had hoped for.

Jinwoo summoned Knight Killer in his right hand and Kasaka’s Venom Fang in his left.

Party trick?

The boss did have a point. Even though Jinwoo had more soldiers, they weren’t powerful enough to take down the boss. Jinwoo was well aware of this. It was likely the source of the boss’s confidence.

Jinwoo needed reinforcements.

Powerful reinforcements…

He did have one. Jinwoo looked to the side where Chul lay unconscious.

“Attack!” the boss yelled, and the Ice Slayers drew their bows.

“Teddy bears!” Jinwoo positioned the shadow beasts up front.

Shunk! Shunk! Shunk! Shunk!

Graaaah!

Arrows rained down from above, and the shadow beasts who were struck cried out in pain. Before the Ice Slayers could fire off any more arrows, the infantry began their charge, and the mages started to cast their spells.

There was a fire in Jinwoo’s eyes.

Your ass is mine!

Chul’s sword had fallen behind Jinwoo’s foot, and he kicked the blade toward Chul before he took off. His eyes were fixed on the Ice Slayers’ boss, and it was waiting for him.

Soon, sparks flew from the four daggers wielded by Jinwoo and the boss.

Clang! Clang! Ca-clang!

The shadow soldiers and Ice Slayers clashed as well.

Myunghwan looked at Heejin. “Ummm…shouldn’t we help?”

She shook her head. “There’s nothing we can do here.”

On the battlefield were big black monsters waving their giant claws around, shadowy soldiers that respawned instantaneously, and high-rank Ice Slayers brandishing swords and bows.

What good are some B- and C-rank hunters here?

All they could do was pray. Heejin anxiously watched Jinwoo battle the long-haired Ice Slayer.

“Ngh!” Jinwoo cried out.

His opponent was a high-rank dungeon boss, all right! It looked like an even fight, yet Jinwoo was the only one getting nicked. Could he last three more minutes at this point? His MP was quickly depleting because his soldiers had to keep re-forming.

Eventually, the mages completed their spell. Balls of fire larger than volleyballs dropped on the Ice Slayers.

BOOM!

The power of the leveled-up mages was extraordinary. The explosion was so loud, it roused Chul.

“Mm……”

Chul lifted his head.

Clank! Clank! Bang!

With his blurred vision, he saw terrifying Ice Slayers and black knights locked in battle.

What……is happening?

He didn’t know what was going on, but he knew very well why he was lying there. Someone had struck him on the back of his head! That voice he’d heard behind him!

It was Jinwoo Sung!

Now wide awake, he felt his hands trembling from shame and hatred, but he was able to reach for his sword. There was no way for him to survive, surrounded as he was by Ice Slayers. If that was the case…

I’ll take that bastard down with me!

His contemptuous eyes scanned the battlefield. And there he was! Jinwoo was fighting an Ice Slayer and paying no mind to what was behind him. This was his chance.

Chul stood up quickly and charged Jinwoo.

“Rahhhhh!”

Jinwoo sensed Chul was rushing toward them, and his mood lifted.

If it’s you……

Jinwoo had predicted this was going to happen.

Chul aimed and swung his sword at Jinwoo’s neck. “Eat shit!”

With the boss in front of him and Chul behind, Jinwoo shouted, “Igris!”

Igris rushed out of Jinwoo’s shadow and blocked Chul’s sword.

Clang!

“What?!”

Chul’s bloodshot eyes widened. But before the hunter could say anything, Igris stabbed his sword deep into Chul’s chest.

Shunk!

The sword pierced his chest and shot out his back.

“Arrrrgh!”

Jinwoo quickly withdrew a few steps.

I knew this was how you’d react, Chul.

Chul was the type of person who let his emotions dictate his actions. Even though they’d interacted only briefly, it had been enough for Jinwoo to figure him out.

Chul scowled at Jinwoo. “You…… You……!”

Those were his last words followed by his last breath. While Igris blocked the boss’s path, Jinwoo stood over Chul’s shadow.

“Arise!”

Then…

Ahhhhhhhh!

The plaintive cry was followed by a large hand bursting from the shadow.

[Shadow Extraction successful.]

Nice!

Jinwoo was pumped. The last puzzle piece had fallen into place in this boss raid. The black knight that spawned from his shadow was much beefier than Chul himself had been. Additionally, he held a huge war hammer in one hand and a shield as tall as a grown man in the other. The shadow exuded an immensely threatening aura.

Chul was pretty muscular, but this shadow is……

Despite the urgent situation, Jinwoo couldn’t help but be impressed.

Right, a name.

Jinwoo took a peek at the battle still raging.

Igris was getting overwhelmed by the boss. He was only meant to buy time for Jinwoo by respawning.

Shhhk!

The boss lopped off one of Igris’s arms.

I don’t have time for this.

Name. It could be anything. Should he just use Chul Kim?

Jinwoo shook his head. He didn’t feel comfortable naming the undead after a human.

Right. Chul Kim. Chul in English is Iron!

That would be his name. Jinwoo had chosen a name for the newly raised shadow soldier.

Knight rank! That was the same rank as Igris, but Jinwoo had no time to be pleased.

I gotta get moving!

He gestured at the boss. “Iron!”

Iron’s large frame lumbered forward.

Stomp, stomp, stomp!

Jinwoo liked Iron’s size but worried about how he would fare against the boss’s speed. His worries didn’t last.

Iron puffed his chest and let out a battle cry.

RAAAHHH!

What was that?

Jinwoo flinched at the unexpected noise as a message appeared.

Ping!

“An aggro skill!”

Chul was an A-rank tank, so of course he had a high-level aggro skill. And now Iron, who was his shadow, could mimic said skill perfectly.

The boss whipped around immediately. Even though it could’ve ended Igris right then and there, the boss charged Iron as if possessed. Iron used the Reinforcement skill to endure the boss’s dagger.

Yes!

Jinwoo nodded in approval.

Meanwhile, Igris’s severed arm regenerated.

Hwoom.

Black smoke rose from the stump and solidified into a new arm. The boss continued to focus on Iron. Jinwoo and Igris seized the opportunity to attack the boss together.

……

Heejin had no words for the spectacle she was witnessing. It was incredibly surreal. She had no desire to learn more about what was happening.

Next to her, Songyi timidly spoke up. “Heejin…?”

The hunter belatedly answered. “Um……yeah?”

“Do all hunters’ fights look like this?” Songyi’s voice trembled from fright.

Heejin sounded defeated. “…If they did, I wouldn’t have been able to get my hunter’s license.”

Myunghwan watched dazedly. “Maybe…we’re only dreaming all this?”

If this were a dream, then it was actually a nightmare. Heejin gasped as she watched the shadowy…things fight the magic beasts. At the same time, she began to worry about something.

“Once we get out of here…we’ll have to talk to investigators……”

What were they supposed to tell people? She couldn’t even begin to explain what had happened with Jinwoo inside the red gate.

After she brought this up…

“Um… But you know…” Kijoong was still on the ground, shaking in fear, and had trouble getting the words out. “Isn’t it kind of amazing that we’re actually worried about what’ll happen after we leave?”

All the teammates nodded.

A high-rank dungeon and a red gate, no less. It was a place they’d never once thought they’d escape alive, but now they were concerned with the aftermath.

It was all because of one person.

Heejin turned her eyes to Jinwoo.

Thanks to you, Jinwoo Sung……

More than shock or gratitude, she felt awe.

Shhhk!

Kasaka’s Venom Fang was stuck in the boss’s shoulder.

As the enemies’ levels went up, Kasaka’s Venom Fang’s debuff failed more times than not, but the injuries it inflicted were still effective.

Take that!

The boss’s movements slowed as its wounds piled up.

“Nnnngh!” The smile on its face had vanished a long time ago. The boss had been easily dodging the combined attacks of Jinwoo, Igris, and Iron up to now, but it was starting to run out of steam.

Don’t let up!

Iron grabbed the boss in a steely embrace.

“Now!” When Jinwoo gave the signal, Igris and Jinwoo retreated.

The boss had a look of confusion on its face. “What…?”

The mage soldiers dropped fireballs on Iron’s position.

Kaboom!

Boom!

“Argh!” The boss cried out in pain for the first time. It twisted its body, and Iron’s arm fell off.

Crack!

The boss turned to Jinwoo with murder in its eyes. “Graaaaah!”

Jinwoo was amazed once again.

It’s injured that badly, but it keeps on coming!

After all, it was the master of a high-rank dungeon. Unfortunately for it, though, they were way past the tipping point.

Dagger Throw!

Jinwoo hurled Knight Killer like he had at the previous Ice Slayer, but he gave it an extra push using Ruler’s Hand.

Hwoosh!

The dagger cut through the air in an instant.

Ugh!

Realizing it couldn’t avoid the dagger in time, the boss blocked it with its own weapon.

Krrrk!

Because Knight Killer had been thrown with such force, the boss’s dagger cracked upon impact. At the same time, Jinwoo used Stealth and Dash to close the gap and thrust Kasaka’s Venom Fang into the boss’s gut.

Shunk!

The boss’s eyes bulged wide in shock. “Argh!”

Yet, even after all this, it grabbed Jinwoo’s wrist. It was determined to go down fighting.

“Rrraaaaaagh!” The boss raised its dagger above its head.

Jinwoo smirked.

An enormous war hammer struck the boss’s skull.

Blam!

Its head slammed into the snow covering the forest floor.

Iron lifted both his regenerated arms again and slammed the hammer down once more.

Whoom…

Splat!

Igris had been readying his next attack but instead sheathed his sword, and Jinwoo put his daggers into inventory.

The expected messages materialized.

Ping!

Phew. It’s finally over…

Jinwoo exhaled in relief. It had been a hard-fought victory.

He was just about to catch his breath when Iron caught his attention.

“Hey! Hey, stop it now!” He rushed to halt Iron. The shadow warrior had been about to drop his hammer yet again but stopped. He was as merciless as when he had been Chul.

The boss’s body had already been obliterated.

It’s good that doesn’t affect the shadow.

He smiled. The ultimate reward for the hard battle was right under his feet.

Jinwoo murmured, “Arise.”

It was already three AM.

The four higher-ups monitoring the red gate did not look good.

Kichul finally spoke up. “We’ll stay here, so why don’t you leave first, Mr. President?”

“How could I go home while our guild members are stuck in there?” President Yoonho Baek was firm. He couldn’t leave them upon his honor as an active guild master and S-rank hunter.

Suddenly, Sangmin’s eyes widened. “Huh? The red gate…!”

Kichul and Sungchan also noticed that something odd was happening.

“The red gate is opening!”

“The dungeon’s been cleared!”

“People…… People are coming out!”

President Baek clenched his fist tightly.

Chul Kim! Is this his handiwork?

Vmmmm…

Everyone rushed up to the gate.

Baek couldn’t hide his excitement and looked for Chul, the leader, but he wasn’t among those who emerged from the portal.

Huh? What? That’s odd…

Sungchan had also placed his confidence in Chul, and his expression grew stranger with every second.

“Hunter Park! Hunter Ko and Hunter Yoon!”

“Hunter Sung!” A big smile crossed Sangmin’s face as he spotted Jinwoo with Songyi trailing the three White Tiger hunters.

I knew it!

His smile was a sharp contrast to the stony look on Sungchan’s face.

But the smile quickly vanished. The gate disappeared after only five hunters, including Jinwoo, stepped through.

Kichul asked, “Did only…the five of you make it?”

Jinwoo looked tired as he nodded affirmatively.

Kichul was devastated.

How could this be…?

He had tears in his eyes as he crossed out the names of the dead on his list.

Baek, who was watching this all happen, let out a cry.

Only the low-rank hunters survived? Only a single B rank came back?

This was impossible. What had happened inside that gate?

“Let’s go. I’ll take you home.”

Jinwoo was about to leave with Songyi when the president grabbed his wrist.

“Wait a second, sir.”

Smack!

Jinwoo snatched his arm back.

Baek’s gaze sharpened. “Let’s talk for a second.”

Jinwoo turned around. “I’m tired now. If you have any questions, please ask your guild members.”

Baek couldn’t stand it anymore and finally revealed his identity. “I’m Yoonho Baek, the guild master of the White Tiger Guild.”

Jinwoo’s eyes remained cold. “And?”

Jinwoo’s frosty reception caused Baek’s eyes to transform into those of a magic beast. They looked completely feral.

“We lost nine of our guild members from this incident. Don’t I have a right to ask you a few questions as the president of the guild?”

This wasn’t a request. It was an order—or perhaps a threat. Whatever one wanted to call it, Baek had no intention of letting Jinwoo go just like that.

But Jinwoo looked pissed. He didn’t cower at the immense pressure exuding from S-rank hunter Yoonho Baek.

“I saved three of your people. As the president, shouldn’t you start by thanking me?”

The tables had turned, and it was Baek who now felt the weight of Jinwoo’s anger. Everything Jinwoo said was right, after all. He couldn’t argue with that.

“……I apologize.”

Yoonho gave a repentant bow.

Jinwoo turned to leave. “Let’s go, Songyi.”

“Okay.”

Songyi peeked at Jinwoo’s expression as she followed him, so as to not irritate him more. Eventually, they got in the van and left.

This doesn’t make sense……

Yoonho’s thoughts were all jumbled. He sprinted over to Heejin, the only surviving high-rank hunter.

“Excuse me, Heejin.”

She was warming up with some tea Kichul had brought her.

“What’s with that guy? Why is he in such a bad mood?”

They had escaped from a red gate after overcoming untold hardship, so why was he acting so savage?

Heejin shook her head, indicating she had no idea. “I don’t know, sir. After he defeated the boss, he muttered something three times while he stood in front of the corpse. He’s been acting that way ever since……”

“So he was fine until then?”

She looked at Myunghwan and Kijoong. They simultaneously nodded.

“What a strange man he is……,” Yoonho mumbled to himself as he looked at the alley Jinwoo had driven down.

Sangmin started wringing his hands like it was all his fault. “I’m sorry, Mr. President. He was probably exhausted. He isn’t a bad person, from what I’ve seen.”

“No, that’s not the problem.”

“Pardon me?”

Yoonho looked sternly at Sangmin. “Why haven’t you recruited him yet?”

“Sir?” Sangmin couldn’t hide that he was flustered, but what he felt couldn’t compare to Yoonho’s vexation.

Against me……

The president swallowed hard as he recalled Jinwoo’s cold eyes.

Gulp.

A thought occurred to him that he would be resigned to losing at least one arm in a fight against Jinwoo.

Possibly more than just an arm……

Realizing what Yoonho meant, Sangmin replied hastily. “I’m doing my best, sir.”

“Well, it’s not good enough.” Yoonho’s eyes shined.

Jinwoo Sung.

Clearly, Manager An had picked another winner.

“Use whatever resources you need. Make him a part of our guild at any cost.”

On the way home…

Vroooom…

A bitter taste filled Jinwoo’s mouth.

Haaah……

Unfortunately, he had failed to extract the Ice Slayer boss’s shadow. Was it because the difference between his and the boss’s abilities was too great?

It sucks, but there’s nothing I can do.

There would be plenty of high-rank bosses. What was important now was increasing his abilities so he wouldn’t miss out on another opportunity like that again.

Leveling up. That was what Jinwoo did best.

Also…

He took his left hand off the wheel for a second, and a beautifully curved dagger appeared.

At least he hadn’t walked away completely empty-handed. This was one of the two daggers the boss had used. He’d disposed of the damaged dagger and kept this one.

Barca’s Dagger.

It not only packed a powerful attack but also boosted agility. It was a superior dagger compared to both the C-rank Kasaka’s Venom Fang and the B-rank Knight Killer, which he’d spent so much money on.

The acquisition difficulty was A rank as well! It was the ideal weapon to replace Kasaka’s Venom Fang, which was proving less and less effective as of late.

It even feels good in my hand.

Jinwoo was recounting the events of the red gate as they pulled up to Songyi’s apartment building.

Skreeeech.

Songyi, who had sat so quietly that it was like she wasn’t even there, got out of the front passenger seat and bowed.

“Have a safe drive.”

“Right.”

She turned around. Looking at the way her shoulders slumped and how she was trudging to the door, Jinwoo felt he had achieved his goal.

Things got complicated, but it was all about convincing Songyi.

She appeared to no longer want to be a hunter. It would be the same for anyone whose first dungeon experience involved a red gate. Jinwoo was satisfied with himself and was about to start the van when the passenger-side door suddenly opened.

……?

Jinwoo looked over.

Songyi had returned and was holding open the door.

What’s she doing?

He didn’t have to wait long.

She politely bowed once again. “Thank you for everything, Jinwoo.”

Sometime while in the red gate, she’d stopped calling him “mister.”

“Yeah, sure.”

“Um……”

“Hmm?”

“See you tomorrow…… Well, in a few hours.”

“A few hours”?

He eventually realized what Songyi meant after she was out of sight.

Ah.

Starting today, Jinwoo had to finish the rest of the raids with Jinho. He was going to see her again because she was a member of the squad.

That’s what she was talking about.

He was relieved. Had Songyi refused to leave home because of this incident, it would’ve seriously messed up his schedule.

This turned out well.

Now Jinwoo could clear C-rank dungeons even faster using his shadow soldiers. He was confident he’d complete the rest of the raids in record time. Besides, he was looking forward to seeing Jinho’s reaction when faced with the shadow soldiers for the first time.

It can’t beat Kijoong’s reaction, though.

Jinwoo chuckled as he slowly turned the corner.

The following morning…

“Yaaawn.”

Jinwoo was still sleepy as he made his way to the lobby of his apartment building. It felt like he’d blinked and it was already time to work.

“Good morning, boss!” Jinho gave an enthusiastic greeting.

“How did you get here without your van?” Jinwoo had used the team’s trusty van yesterday, so it was parked in a lot nearby.

“I took a taxi, boss.”

“Ah, I see.”

So much for his plans to be the one to pick Jinho up.

“That’s okay, boss. You’re already doing plenty for me, so I should at least be the one driving,” Jinho replied with a laugh.

It was a typical morning, except…

“Huh?”

Jinho noticed the cylindrical object in Jinwoo’s hand. It piqued his curiosity.

“What’s that, boss?”

“Oh, this?” Jinwoo grinned mischievously. “Something I’ll need in the dungeon today.”

Huh.

At that moment, Jinho felt a chill run up his spine.

Is that a weapon he’ll use in the dungeon?

Jinwoo was already overpowered, so what frightening new weapon was this? Jinho felt anxious.

Gulp.

He took a breath to calm down and nodded.

“Okay, boss, let’s go.”

“Hold on.” Jinwoo pulled out his phone and made a call. “We need to pick someone up.”

“What? Who?”

“Hey, Songyi. Meet us downstairs—we’ll give you a ride.”

Songyi… Was that…?

As soon as Jinwoo hung up the phone, Jinho pounced. “Are we picking up that high school girl in our squad?”

Jinwoo nodded in confirmation. Songyi’s apartment was on their way, so he figured they might as well pick her up.

But Jinho read more into it. Songyi Han. She was the cute high schooler who always wore her hair in a bun.

He knows her phone number and was all friendly with her… Are they already that close?

Jinwoo was impressive even from a guy’s point of view.

Especially when he only uses a dagger to take on a monster, he really is……

The boss might not be interested in her, but it wouldn’t be surprising to discover that she was crushing on Jinwoo.

Jinho nodded. He was determined to get verification.

“So, boss…… Should I refer to Songyi as ‘ma’am’ from now on?”

Did he eat something weird during breakfast? Jinwoo’s reaction was asking as much. Though usually clueless, Jinho understood the hunter’s expression this time.

“Uh…… So you two aren’t dating?”

“She’s just my sister’s friend.”

“Oh. Ohhh.”

That explained it. Jinho finally grasped the reality of the situation. And to think he’d been about to call her “ma’am”! He was so embarrassed.

Eventually, Songyi emerged, more dressed up than usual.

Jinho grinned.

Okay, so she’s a teenage girl with a crush on her friend’s older brother.

As squad leader, he thought he should compliment her nice outfit, but Jinwoo greeted her first.

“Did you get any sleep?”

Jinho froze.

……

Songyi smiled as she shook her head. “Not at all.”

“Take a nap in the van. You must be tired.”

Jinho couldn’t follow their conversation.

H-huh?

It was Songyi’s turn to ask in return, “What about you, Jinwoo?”

“I just took a light nap. It was past four by the time I got home.”

“I see……”

Night? Not a wink? Tired? Past four by the time he got home? Jinho was freaking out by now. Jinwoo had started heading to the van but stopped to look back at Jinho.

“Jinho, let’s go.”

“Um… I… Boss?”

“……?”

“Um, Songyi is a minor, boss.”

“Yeah, and?”

“……Nothing, boss.”

What a man among men. Jinho was amazed that Jinwoo refused to be shackled by society’s rules.

He really isn’t an average guy, that’s for sure.

Jinho reflected on himself for ever measuring Jinwoo against typical societal standards.

Meanwhile, in a small meeting room at the White Tiger Guild.

“That’s all I know.” Heejin ended her statement.

Although President Baek had recommended she get some rest first, Heejin had insisted that she had gotten plenty of rest (?) inside the red gate and wanted the investigation to start immediately.

“……”

“……”

The two leading the inquiry, President Baek and Manager An, were speechless. Kichul, who had been in charge of the raid, was currently at the association to follow up on how to handle the situation, so it was only the three of them in the room.

Sangmin broke the silence. “Is all of this true?”

“You can ask Myunghwan and Kijoong. They’ll tell you the same thing.”

The two men had gone straight home, saying they missed their families.

Heejin guaranteed that their testimonies would be no different from hers.

I only told them what I saw with my own eyes.

For example, she told them she’d hear ice bears screaming in the distance inside the forest whenever Jinwoo wasn’t with them, and she’d see him get up at night to do push-ups while everyone else was asleep. She said nothing about what the others had seen or heard, only things she’d witnessed herself.

“Hngh……”

Sangmin made a sound that could’ve been a gasp or a groan.

Jinwoo could knock out an A-rank hunter with one punch, manipulate space as he wished, and summon a few dozen of his own soldiers. It was all hard to believe, but the most shocking thing was…

President Baek broke his silence and stated, “Jinwoo Sung cleared a high-rank dungeon almost entirely by himself.”

It was very possible he was an S-rank hunter.

“Incredible.”

Even though he’d fought alongside minions he’d summoned, they were not his partners but rather part of Jinwoo’s skill. Which was to say, Jinwoo truly had solo cleared the dungeon.

“Even if you’re a very high-rank hunter, it’s extremely difficult to clear a dungeon on your own.”

On top of that, it had been a red gate. On his own, Baek might be able to clear a B-rank gate. Jinwoo’s feat was possible only because he had the means to summon a large number of his own soldiers.

Sangmin marveled, “Jinwoo is definitely an awakened being with rare abilities.”

Yoonho agreed. “It’s unusual enough for a hunter to be able to control one summoned creature, but one who can summon a whole army of them……”

Since becoming an active S-rank hunter, Yoonho had met countless other skilled hunters, but he’d never heard of that kind of skill.

“He’s an awakened being with skills on a completely different level……” The president was truly amazed.

A question suddenly popped into Sangmin’s head. “In terms of net worth, how valuable is Jinwoo now?”

“……” Yoonho had no answer.

But one thing was clear. Whatever Jinwoo was worth right now, his value would increase exponentially as soon as he was reevaluated, which was why they needed to recruit him before then.

The White Tiger Guild had already lost an A-rank and several B-rank hunters. If they couldn’t recruit Jinwoo, who was a great boon, the loss would be immeasurable.

“I have faith in you, Manager An.” As President Baek sent him a trusting look, Sangmin’s face filled with determination.

Just then…

“Hmm?” Both Yoonho and Sangmin looked over to Heejin.

She was holding up her hand.

President Baek asked, “Did you have a question?”

Now that she had their attention, she put down her hand. “Please let me help you.”

“With what?”

“With recruiting our capta—I mean, Hunter Jinwoo Sung.”

Yoonho and Sangmin exchanged looks before turning back to Heejin again. Sangmin, the one in charge of recruitment, cocked his head.

“But why would you…?”

“Because I’ve spent more time with him than anyone in our guild, so I think I can help.”

Although it had only been six hours in real time, she’d spent almost a week with Jinwoo in the red gate. It was a reasonable suggestion. It didn’t hurt that she was also attractive, which could be a useful tool for recruitment.

As soon as Heejin sensed that they were about to cave, she added, “There’s one condition, though.”

Baek raised an eyebrow. “What is it?”

“If Jinwoo joins the White Tiger Guild, please put me in his strike squad, no questions asked.”

She’d had a revelation about just how horrifying high-rank gates were and how powerless she could be once inside.

It’s what Jinwoo was trying to teach Songyi…

It was humiliating, but what could she do? Pretending that something scary wasn’t actually scary was dumb and reckless. What she’d experienced inside the red gate had certainly been terrifying.

However, she couldn’t give up the spoils and status she enjoyed as a B-rank hunter. The high annual salary! The countless benefits! The social recognition! Despite the risk, it was the perfect occupation. After all, it was high risk and high return.

But Heejin had discovered a way to mitigate that risk.

Raids with the captain.

The person she’d envied the most inside the red gate was none other than Songyi, and it was for one reason only. It was because of something Jinwoo had promised her.

“I brought you here, so I promise to take responsibility and protect you.”

In other words, he wasn’t responsible for protecting any members other than Songyi. The rest of them were just extras. The whole time they were together, Heejin had worried that Jinwoo and Songyi would secretly leave the party. And then on the sixth day, Jinwoo really had cleared the high-rank dungeon by himself and sent Songyi Han home safely.

He’d kept his promise.

After witnessing all that, Heejin was convinced. If she went on raids in Jinwoo’s squad, she would always be safe. Just the thought made her heart race.

He was calm, cool, and collected, had amazing abilities, and carried a sense of responsibility. She wanted her next raid to be with Jinwoo again, so that was her sole demand.

Put me in the strike squad led by Jinwoo Sung.

President Baek and Sangmin discussed the matter, and then…

“Sounds good.” President Baek guffawed. “So for now, you will work with Manager An.”

“Thank you.”

Scouting Jinwoo wouldn’t be easy, that’s for sure. Jinwoo was well aware of how valuable his abilities were.

Even inside the red gate, he overflowed with confidence.

Convincing him to join the guild wasn’t going to be easy.

Still……

She’d have a chance to see him again. Heejin hid her smile from the others.

President Baek was lost in his thoughts but finally decided to ask. “Manager An.”

“Yes?”

“I would like Jinwoo’s number, please.”

“Sir, that’s……” Sangmin explained to President Baek why he’d been hiding Jinwoo. Yoonho mulled it over, then nodded in understanding.

“I get why he wants to hide his abilities, even though he’s so great. Some people in the world just want to go unnoticed.”

A man with that kind of personality had just revealed his secret abilities in front of other people. Of course, he’d been in a dangerous situation, but it most likely meant that he was also self-assured enough to slowly reveal himself to the world.

“As long as things don’t blow up, Jinwoo can’t blame you, Manager An.”

Sangmin nodded. Of course, he had no intention of leaking this story.

Not only would that cause problems for Jinwoo, but the news wouldn’t benefit either the guild or to the association.

“That’s true, but……” Sangmin was worried about something else.

His boss could ruin everything by rushing into things without knowing Jinwoo’s firm nature. Sangmin wanted to prevent that from happening.

“Sir, I don’t think contacting him directly yourself is……”

Yoonho realized what concerned Sangmin. “Oh, it’s not about recruitment.”

“Sorry? Then why…?”

“It’s like Jinwoo said.”

Yoonho had realized something while listening to Heejin’s statement. The White Tiger Guild owed Jinwoo. He’d saved three of their new recruits. Moreover, he’d stopped the White Tiger Guild’s name from being tarnished by clearing the red gate. Even though it had been the association’s mistake, their public image would’ve taken a dive if news regarding the loss of their recruits had gotten out.

Just thinking about the possibility was awful and gave him chills.

And despite that, I tried to interrogate him!

Yoonho now understood why Jinwoo had been so sour. He hadn’t realized it at the time, but now that he was aware, he wanted to do something about it.

“As the president of the White Tiger Guild, I would like to officially thank Hunter Sung as well as apologize to him about yesterday.”

Oh, well, if that’s the case……

His words won over Sangmin. Knowing the president’s straightforward personality, he wouldn’t thank Jinwoo just to turn around and try to recruit him. Not to mention, Sangmin also wanted to thank Jinwoo.

“Okay, then.” Sangmin pulled out his phone and looked for Jinwoo’s contact info.

“What’s Jinwoo’s number?” President Baek also took out his phone to enter Jinwoo’s number.

“The number is…” Sangmin stopped because he felt an intense pressure, and he turned his head.

“Um, and why do you need it, Hunter Park?”

“Ah, right……”

Heejin smiled awkwardly and furtively hid her phone, which was open to the Add New Contact page.

The Hunters, Korea’s number one guild. Its president, an active S-rank hunter named Jongin Choi, had just been delivered some interesting news.

“Has this been confirmed……?”

No one would dare knock on his door to bring him misinformation! Myungki Jo, director of their recruiting team, nodded. “Yes, I received this intel from the association today.”

All the large guilds had their own informants within the association. It wasn’t something to be proud of, but this was how they got the jump on contacting high-rank awakened beings before anyone else.

But their informant had told him something odd today. Only after agonizing over it had Myungki gone to the president’s office.

Since this is about White Tiger, the guild threatening our spot at the top…

He thought it was worth reporting to the president. As Myungki had expected, Jongin was very interested.

“Two C-rank hunters survived a red gate where an A-rank and six B-rank hunters got killed? And they cleared the gate? This doesn’t make sense.”

Even with that B-rank hunter…

Jongin shook his head as he read the memo. “There must’ve been someone else not mentioned in this memo.”

He was certain of it. His extensive track record and experience with raids told him as much.

Myungki continued. “The association suspected this as well. However…”

“However?”

“White Tiger wouldn’t talk.”

“So the association let it go, just like that?”

“Since the incident was the association’s fault, they didn’t want to make a big deal out of it.”

“Hmm……” Jongin tapped his chin. It was a force of habit, something he did when lost in thought.

Never mind the association, why was White Tiger being quiet? There could be only one reason.

“White Tiger got help from someone they don’t want anyone else knowing about.”

“I agree with you.”

They shared the same opinion. Jongin’s mind began to race.

A nameless supporter who saved the low-rank hunters from a difficult dungeon where many high-rank hunters were killed……

He was dying for some answers.

Is it a new hunter who has yet to be diagnosed as an awakened being? Or a criminal whose identity needed to be concealed?

It didn’t matter either way. If this was a new hunter, the Hunters would recruit them. If it was a criminal, the Hunters would ruin White Tiger’s reputation.

Jongin’s eyes twinkled. “We need to find out who was there.”

“Do you have any ideas?”

“You have to set a fire in the raccoon’s den to catch the raccoon.”

Myungki’s eyes lit up. “Are you going to set White Tiger on fire?”

“You think I’m crazy? Why would I set fire to someone else’s property?”

“Ah, apologies. I just thought, since you’re such an amazing mage hunter……”

He was known as the Ultimate Hunter for a reason. If Jongin used his skills at full blast, blowing up a building would be like knocking down a house of cards.

Jongin explained. “That’s not what I mean. I’m saying we need to cause some trouble.”

“So that’s the fire……”

Jongin’s gaze turned fierce, and Myungki quieted.

“Let’s leak something to the media.”

Brilliant!

Myungki looked impressed.

“The Hunter’s Association’s big mistake! The tragedy of a large guild! And the mystery behind it all! Wouldn’t the press eat that up?”

Myungki nodded automatically.

Jongin laughed. “If the White Tiger Guild is ambushed by the media, they’ll have no choice but to reveal the mystery hunter.”

“That’s such a good idea!” Myungki laughed with him.

It was an excellent chance to deliver a huge blow to the White Tiger Guild, which had been hot on the Hunters’ heels.

Jongin couldn’t suppress his smile. “Call the reporters immediately.”

[You have entered the dungeon.]

Jinwoo took a deep breath as soon as he was inside.

Haah.

After being trapped in an outdoor-type dungeon for several days, the air in a cave-type dungeon felt different.

Soon, Jinho entered as well.

“What kind of magic beasts do you think we’ll run into here, boss?”

“Who knows……”

I sense something nearby, but…

Jinwoo felt their presence but didn’t see anything. He took a step forward.

The floor of the cave began to rise here and there.

Th-th-th-thud.

Th-th-thud.

They were humanoid magic beasts made of stone.

Jinho recalled hearing about them. “Boss, these are stonemen.”

Jinwoo acknowledged him with a nod.

These bastards were known for having the toughest hides among magic beasts found in low-rank dungeons. Conventional wisdom said to use magic to defeat stonemen, but…

“Hang on to this for me.” Jinwoo handed Jinho a plastic bag containing the cylinder and then walked toward the stonemen.

Gasp!

Jinho flinched, convinced the bag held some kind of weapon, but nothing happened.

Is it not a weapon?

In the meantime, Jinwoo equipped Barca’s Dagger and Knight Killer.

Shunk!

The head of a stoneman rolled away.

Jinwoo admired Barca’s Dagger with a pleased grin.

Not bad.

Suddenly, Jinwoo disappeared from view.

Tmp.

Ten or so stonemen fell to the ground just before Jinwoo reappeared behind them.

Cruuummmble…

I feel so much lighter and faster on my feet since I got out of the red gate.

That was only natural, as Jinwoo’s current level was 60. After defeating ice bears and Ice Slayers, he’d leveled up nine times, from level 51 to level 60. Now, C-rank magic beasts felt like the goblins found in E-rank dungeons.

I don’t even think I need weapons here.

That was good enough for a warm-up.

Should I speed things up, then?

It was time to summon his shadow soldiers. As if on cue, a group of stonemen came lumbering toward them from inside the cave.

Summon.

With his order, shadow soldiers hidden within Jinwoo’s shadow quietly formed behind him.

This was followed by a scream of terror.

“Gyaaahhhh!”

Oh, right. Jinwoo smacked his own forehead and turned around.

He’s here, too.

Jinwoo had been having so much fun that he’d forgotten Jinho was with him.

“B-b-boss?” From where he’d fallen on the ground, Jinho pointed at the shadow soldiers. “Wh-what are these?”

“It’s too complicated to explain, but…it’s one of my skills.”

“You have the s-s-skill to summon these things?”

Jinwoo replied with a nod.

Jinho couldn’t close his mouth. “Ahhh……”

This was Jinho’s eleventh dive into a dungeon with Jinwoo. He’d thought himself incapable of being surprised by now, but clearly, he was wrong. Jinwoo had exceeded his expectations once again.

Gulp.

Jinho had trouble swallowing as he eyed the soldiers in their black armor emitting savage energy.

Jinwoo glanced in the other direction. The slow-moving stonemen had gotten closer. Jinwoo directed the soldiers at the beasts.

“Go.”

His minions bolted as if they’d been waiting for his cue.

Th-th-th-thud…

Because almost forty soldiers moved at once, the floor of the cave quaked. Thanks to the addition of bigger shadow soldiers like Iron and the shadow beasts, the overall weight of the army had increased significantly.

It’s like I’m looking at a squadron of tanks.

Jinwoo wore a satisfied look on his face. The soldiers stormed the place, and the dungeon was cleared in no time. All that was left were the remains of the stonemen, which sort of resembled cookie crumbs.

A C-rank dungeon decimated, just like that.

Whoa… Jinwoo was impressed.

If I keep this up, we’ll complete the rest of the raids in a snap.

It shouldn’t take too long to finish the remaining eight.

Tmp, tmp, tmp.

At the end of the battle, the shadow soldiers assigned to collect essence stones stood at attention before Jinwoo. Igris and Iron, the two knight ranks, were positioned at the front.

Once all the soldiers stopped moving, Jinho sheepishly made his way to Jinwoo’s side.

“Here, boss.”

Jinho returned the plastic bag Jinwoo had given him earlier. Jinwoo grabbed the travel mug out of the bag and took a sip.

“What’s that, boss?”

“Vegetable juice.”

“Ah……”

“I tried it recently, and it’s pretty good.”

Slurp, slurp, slurp.

When the mug was almost empty, Jinwoo turned to Jinho.

“How many gates did you book today?”

Jinho was cautiously trying to touch the fur of a shadow beast but stopped and turned to Jinwoo.

“Four in total.”

That would leave five more dungeons if he did four today. There was no need to drag this out longer.

“Okay, let’s wrap everything up by tomorrow, even if it means we have to travel far.”

“Tomorrow?” Jinho inspected his surroundings. He saw the stonemen’s remains scattered everywhere.

If he keeps going at this speed, there won’t be any issues……

“You got it, boss. By the way……” Jinho hesitated a bit before continuing. “Is it okay if I’m the one who collects essence stones?”

“Why?”

“It kinda feels like they’ve stolen my place, boss. It’s a little upsetting.”

Jinwoo burst out laughing.

He’s special for sure.

And finally, the next day…

Jinwoo fulfilled his promise to Jinho and completed all nineteen raids.