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Chapter 61: Evil Spirit Possession (1)

"Dammit! No way! It can't be...heook!"

On the other hand, Yoo Seung-hwan woke up from a nightmare.

His whole body was moist was sweat.

"Ohh!"

He grabbed his head with both hands and screamed.

Last night in the world of Hwanmong, he was grabbed by the ghoul lord and died. After that, he waited at the resurrection jewel at the army headquarters.

Then he returned back to reality.

It wasn't the first time he had come back to reality since he became a sovereign in Hwanmong.

That wasn't the reason why he was angry.

[The army's mission has been completed.]

[You didn't survive so you can't receive achievement points.]

He saw these messages before returning.

He knew that he needed to stay alive for the duration of the ghoul lord's mission in order to receive achievement points.

Therefore, he had tried it.

The problem was that the mission was a success.

Obviously Commander Heksia had been pushed by the ghoul lord, so how was the army's mission completed?

That guy Kang-jun must have reversed the situation.

How on earth?

Yoo Seung-hwan couldn't imagine it.

'Euh! A really surprising guy. I didn't see him properly. He is a real monster!'

In one sense, he had to be grateful to Kang-jun.

If the army mission failed then the other sovereigns, including Yoo Seung-hwan, would have lost 20 achievement points due to the failure penalty.

In other words, everyone would benefit from Kang-jun completing the mission.

Nevertheless, he had no intention of feeling appreciation.

Everything was relative.

'He got 210 points while I had my points reduced by 10, so he increased the gap by 220 points. Dammit! If I count the last time...'

He had no answer. Furthermore, what about the moonstones?

However, this was just the start. How much further would the gap increase in the future?

'Why did the red moon rise?'

Yoo Seung-hwan cursed the red moon. He cursed the red moon and the Second Demon King Colladikus.

It was an opportunity for someone else, but a curse for him.

That was the red moon.

'It can't be. If this continues then I will be unconditionally beaten.'

To be honest, Yoo Seung-hwan hadn't intended a genuine negotiation with Kang-jun.

He appreciated that Kang-jun was strong. But a war wasn't determined by the sovereign alone.

No matter how great Kang-jun was, he wouldn't be able to handle tens of thousands of orcs alone.

In other words, the eternal alliance or co-existence were just empty words.

He had just thought about throwing him five billion to alleviate his anger. No, he had thought about throwing 10 billion. It was money that he could just recover again.

He would use the dangerous prey that was Kang-jun as a paving stone. It would be better to flatter him as much as possible before killing him.

That was his original plan.

In other words, Yoo Seung-hwan thought that Kang-jun was an excellent monster in Hwanmong and an ignorant child in reality.

However, Kang-jun wasn't that easy to handle in reality. He couldn't be wheedled or intimidated.

He suddenly recalled what Kang-jun had said.

'If I kill you then I can get 100 billion won. I'm not interested if the profit isn't equivalent to that.'

He seemed to be leaving room for negotiation, but he hadn't intended to negotiate from the beginning.

Kang-jun was asking for a profit equivalent to 100 billion!

That was the same as Yoo Seung-hwan dying. It was like becoming a devoted subordinate if he gave everything to Kang-jun.

Yoo Seung-hwan grinded his teeth together.

'Crazy bastard! I would rather blow myself up than give him 100 billion. I earned that money.'

He got up from his bed and had a glass of cold water. His eyes were cold as he glanced out the window.

'Lucan, no, Lee Kang-jun! You are just a rookie. In the end, you will kneel before me.'

There was a meaningful smile on his face.

'It is good that I made an appointment with them yesterday.'

A meeting would be held this evening with 10 sovereigns, including Zenith.

The place was located in Cheongdam-dong. It was a big and colourful room. This was the luxury restaurant where he met Kang-jun last time.

It was a dangerous move that could expose him to enemies, but they could also unite against a collective enemy. The powerful enemy called Kang-jun.

And Yoo Seung-hwan wasn't too reluctant to reveal his identity to other sovereigns.

It was something he had worried about before the red moon.

'My identity as a sovereign was revealed by this event. I won't curl up and hide.'

However, Sovereign Avia didn't show any interest in the alliance. He would try again next time.

He immediately headed to the room he reserved under the name of Hardis.

At that time, Kang-jun was watching TV and eating rice after waking up.

"In the last few days, the number of assaults and murders has risen rapidly. Last night, a man in downtown Seoul killed a passerby with a knife..."

He heard bad news on the morning news. Kang-jun was surprised by the recent upswing in criminal acts.

"Monsters have even been seen, so people should avoid going out at night as

soon as possible. In addition, the elderly and pregnant women should have a guardian along with them during the day."

But the stories that appeared on the news were ridiculous. Monsters were seen. It was reported through the phone tip lines.

Besides, the number of assaults and murders was at a serious level.

'What? Monsters?'

Monsters were appearing in reality, not Hwanmong?

He would have thought it was a mistake if there were just one or two people, but many people were interviewed. There were corpse-eating monsters in the toilets of the subway, someone who saw monsters with tentacles in a dimly lit alleyway and some even saw monsters in the form of massive demons.

The problem was that if monsters appeared, there should be at least one photo or video of the scene.

Was it possible that people fell into a collective hallucination? It couldn't be.

Kang-jun searched for articles about the incidents. The articles only started from a few days ago. Then the number of them gradually increased and peaked last night. It happened while Kang-jun was sleeping.

'Strange. The red moon rose a few days ago. Perhaps?'

Kang-jun sensed something and called Lawyer Han Yeon-soo.

-Yes, Lee Kang-jun. What's going on?

"Can the red moon affect reality?"

-Of course.

Han Yeon-soo replied matter of factly.

Unbelievable! He was alarmed.

"Does that mean that the Second Demon King will emerge in reality?"

-Such cases are rare. That is because it consumes a tremendous amount of magic power. Second Demon King is at war in Hwanmong since he isn't stupid enough to waste all that magic.

"Fortunately, he won't pop into reality."

-Yes. Usually they stay in Hwanmong, but sometimes evil spirits can temporarily fold reality to annoy people. But that alone can make it a little confusing.

"It is only a little bit but it is already like h.e.l.l. Is there a solution?"

-The only solution is to get rid of the Second Demon King as soon as possible. It is highly unlikely it would happen, but there would be a disaster if the Second Demon King appeared in reality.

"If we defeat his armies in Hwanmong, will the Second Demon King come down to Earth?"

-Of course. In fact, there are quite a few worlds captured by demons. However, there are many strong people in Earth Hwanmong so they can defeat the Second Demon King. Of course, it could take some time.

"Thank you for letting me know. Then I'm going now."

Kang-jun was somewhat upset by Han Yeon-soo's relaxed attitude. She wasn't human so she didn't seem interested in the suffering of humans.

However, what could Kang-jun do?

In the present situation, all he could do was enter Hwanmong and help weaken the Second Demon King by killing his subordinates.

"Colt, were you approached by any evil spirits or monsters last night?"

If such things existed then ghosts would notice first. Therefore, Kang-jun called Colt who had a hold on the ghosts around here.

"Nothing, Lord. If that happened then I would have reported it instantly. Can I ask what is going on?"

"The red moon has risen and the subordinates of the Second Demon King are attacking reality. Although it is in the form of possession or there is a barrier."

Then Colt said with a smile.

"If that is the case, don't worry. They can't go anywhere near a sovereign's territory or an occupied territory."

"Really?"

"Yes, it is because they can't use magic in the territory of a sovereign. Therefore, Lord's territory is a safe area."

Kang-jun owned the Yugang and Dafeng buildings. He also had some occupied buildings so the evil spirits didn't dare approach.

"It is the same for the territory of other sovereigns. Those who exist in the sovereign's sphere of influence won't be in danger."

"Yes. I understand."

Kang-jun nodded and prepared to go to work.

On the one hand, he felt proud.

In fact, Kang-jun never thought about the people in reality and just focused on becoming a strong sovereign.

How could he afford to think about them?

He needed to survive alone so he needed overflowing strength. Of course, if he completed all 100 mission then he could eat and live well in the future.

Now he could protect people in a certain area by being a sovereign, so he felt something new. At least in his territory, the creatures of the Second Demon King couldn't strike.

Kang-jun felt somewhat proud.

After a while, he arrived at the market.

His part-timers would sell underwear while Kang-jun read books.

There were fewer customers in the market than usual due to the news.

However, Kang-jun's underwear was flying away.

He used the Draw In Customers skill, but it was mainly due to the products he picked after checking with Eyes of Preference. He only picked things that had an A preference so customers didn't hesitate to buy after coming over.

Of course, sales skyrocketed. However, the low population at the market meant that sales would inevitably fall.

But he wasn't worried about that. Kang-jun focused on reading the book. He was hoping to get a new management skill today.

It was at that moment.

"Aaaagh! Help me!"

"Wahh! That person is crazy!"

People could be heard screaming and fleeing from afar. Kang-jun looked up with surprise and saw a homeless man attacking people with a knife.

"Kikiki! This fucking world! I will kill everything. Kill!"

His eyes were bloodshot and seemed to have dark energy in them. He wasn't just a homeless person. He must have been possessed by an evil spirit.

"Freeze."

"Throw away your weapon."

The police aimed their guns but the man didn't budge.

Rather, the police quickly collapsed.

The man didn't even turn his head to look at them, but the police fell. What was the reason?

'An attack. The evil spirit attacked the police.'

At that time, the man ran and was about to stab the police.

"Stop!"

Kang-jun quickly ran and cursed him. The man should have lost his energy and collapsed.

However, the man didn't move.

The target has resisted.]

At the same time, the man sent Kang-jun a menacing look.

Sususu.

Black light could be seen from the man's eyes.

Then a message appeared.

[The enemy's attack has automatically activated the battle field.]

Black magic energy absorption resistance! Kang-jun hadn't used the battle field, but it was activated by itself.

By the way, it wasn't a man who appeared in the battle field.

"Kukukuk!"

Three monsters with tentacles was looking at Kang-jun. He had killed the monsters in Hwanmong already.

'It is the thing that possessed that man.'

Kang-jun looked at the monster.

Now he needed to fight and overcome it. Of course, Kang-jun was someone who killed a ghoul lord.

The minions were insufficient against him.

Moreover, it was possible to use his equipment from Hwanmong in the battle field.

Cheocheocheok.

Black armour immediately appeared on Kang-jun's body. His right hand squeezed the Warrior's Sword.

The monster flinched.

A strong presence was felt from Kang-jun!

It meant a strong being that they couldn't beat.

However, there was no way to avoid fighting in the battle field. A place where they would die if they didn't kill!

The monsters knew this fact and had no choice but to aim their tentacles towards Kang-jun.

"Kiiii!"

"Kukaaaah!"

Chwack! Chwack! Chwack chwack chwack!

The three monsters moved their tentacles at the same time so the entire s.p.a.ce was filled with tentacles. It was like there were more than 100 snakes in the area.

Pak! Supaak!

Kang-jun calmly cut off the tentacles.

He didn't need to use any skills.

The severed tentacles turned into small slime monsters, however Kang-jun's sword had already destroyed the hearts that were the source of the monsters' power.

'It is bland.'

[Experience has been gained.]

[32 nodes have been gained.]

[Experience has been gained.]

[37 nodes have been gained.]

[Experience has been gained.]

[One small moonstone has been acquired.]

Kang-jun was startled.

'What? Experience and item drops.'

Unlike Hwanmong, the battle field normally didn't give any experience.

Surprisingly, the monsters in the Second Demon King's army gave experience. Furthermore, he got nodes and a moonstone!

'This is?'

Kang-jun's eyes shone. It meant that the experience was real, not virtual.

In other words, the monsters were really killed by Kang-jun's strikes.

[You have won.]

[25 black magic energy points have been acquired.]

Their black magic energy went to Kang-jun.

25 black magic energy points was the amount consumed when using a management skill. It was all filled up.

Sususu.

The battle field immediately disappeared. The battle only took 20 seconds, but in reality, it felt like time had stopped.

"Waaaah!"

The only difference was the expression of the homeless man holding the knife.

His face distorted. Then he flopped down on the ground.

"Ohh! No way! W-why did I do this...?"

He trembled as he saw the bloodstained knife in his hand and the people collapsed near him.

"Freeze!"

"Get down!"

At that moment, the heavily armed police ran and grabbed the knife from his hand before handcuffing him.

Eeeeng -

After calling 119, the paramedics arrived and the situation started to be cleaned up.

Two people died and five were injured.

This would be reported as another incident of evil spirit possession. But people didn't know why the homeless man suddenly lost strength and collapsed.

If Kang-jun hadn't removed the evil spirits then what terrible catastrophe would have happened in the market?

Kang-jun stared after the police cars and ambulances with a bitter expression.

He felt sorry for the victimized people. They died for no reason, just because they were near a possessed man.

'If I found him a little sooner then I might have prevented the incident.'

Kang-jun went around the market to see if there was anybody else.

In the aftermath of the murders, the market was completely empty of guests. The merchants maintained their positions, but they all looked uneasy.

It was the same for the part time workers at Kang-jun's underwear stall.

"Today, take a day off."

"Thank you, Boss-nim. But I don't think I'll be able to come tomorrow. I'm sorry."

"Me too. I can't come back here because I'm too afraid."

The part time workers declared. Kang-jun nodded.

"I understand. I will try to clean up the stall. In the meantime, you both did really well so thank you."

Kang-jun shook the hands of the two part time workers.

They had been very skillful and worked sincerely. If it wasn't for them, Kang-jun wouldn't have been able to read the books comfortably or use the management skills.

After a while, he headed to the market's parking lot.

Kang-jun sat in the car and searched through his smartphone for a while.

It was impossible to comfortably read books when he knew that the Second Demon King's creatures were attacking people in reality. He decided to actively look around for them.

He could help people as well as gain experience, nodes and moonstones from the creatures.

In the past, he had only been able to level up in Hwanmong. But now, there was a chance that he could even level up in reality.

So there was no reason to spend time reading books in reality. He would read on a semi-regular basis.

If possible, he would search for other places where incidents were occurring to increase his experience.

'There are still incidents going on today.'

This wasn't just happening in Korea but all over the world.

On the Internet and SNS, there were reports about monsters and evil spirits.

There were even those who gathered the information and made maps. People marked the map whenever they found a place where evil spirits or monsters were.

The map of Seoul had many red dots all over the place. He zoomed into the map where there were no red dots.

Kang-jun recalled Colt's words.

'Didn't he say that they can't appear in the territory of the sovereigns?'

Indeed, there were no red dots in the vicinities of the Yugang, Dafeng, Echo, Sungkwang, Dain building, etc.

However, the radius around the Yugang and Dafeng buildings was much wider compared to the buildings that he only occupied.

This meant that the safety zone effect was stronger when the sovereign owned the building.

As he continued to look, he could see that there was a safe zone around the Seyoung building that Yoo Seung-hwan owned.

That wasn't all.

He could find the locations of other sovereigns from the map.

Of course, there were still many obscure areas. But as more red dots formed, he could clearly see the safety zones around the sovereigns' bases forming.

'I got some unforeseen information.'

However, this information wasn't given unconditionally. Conversely, Kang-jun's position would also be exposed to other sovereigns.

The positions of sovereigns could be figured out through this map.

'I should be glad that the red moon is floating.'

Otherwise, the world might have been confused by the war between sovereigns, not the appearance of evil spirits or monsters.

Anyway, the situation was now different.

The emergence of the Second Demon King! The situation had dramatically changed.

In the meantime, all the sovereigns hiding in the darkness were revealed. Now that sovereigns could no longer hide, the war between sovereigns would enter a new phase.

Of course, sovereigns were still unknown to the general public.

'Then shall I go hunting?'

Kang-jun searched the forums of the site containing the map for tips.

Rather than going where an evil spirit had once appeared, it would be better to find the information in real time.

Then he heard that a high school contained students possessed by evil spirits.

'K High School?'

It was only five minutes from here.

Bururung.

Kang-jun quickly drove there.

"Aack!"

"Help me!"

After a while, Kang-jun arrived at the road next to K High School.

The school's back gate.

There was a police car waiting there. Three police officers stood with a grim look like they were afraid to approach the school.

"Ah, crazy! When will support come?"

"Isn't an incident occurring at this place?"

"Even if the army is mobilized, we will be the ones to die first. It has already been a few days since I last slept."

Kang-jun listened to their words as he glanced towards the school.

Teachers and hundreds of students were shaking in the middle of the playground.

It was due to the students possessed by the evil spirits.

Some of the teachers and students, including the principal, were captured and the police were dispatched to subdue this situation.

At that time, students with dark eyes dragged out a bloody man onto the central porch. It was the principal. After that, bloodied teachers, students and police officers were also dragged out.

"Kikikik! Who cares about the police? If anyone is confident then enter."

"Hihihi! First, I will kill the principal and then the teachers. And then you will all die!"

There were at least 20 students possessed by evil spirits. The police's guns didn't work. As soon as the policemen pointed their guns, they shivered and collapsed.

"Ah, fuck! How can I be afraid at school?"

"Sob. Mother..."

"Please do something!"

The students in the playground were crying. The school's front gate, back gate, fence etc. were all guarded by possessed students so they couldn't escape.

If the police couldn't do anything then who would protect them?

"Wait! Where are you going?"

"You shouldn't go in there."

The police who were watching the back gate shouted urgently.

Then one possessed student laughing smugly at the back of the school fell down.

And a man walked leisurely into the school.

It was Kang-jun.

"Kiki! Who is this bastard?"

"How dare you?"

Two other nearby students rushed towards Kang-jun. Of course, they also fell down as they neared him.

Everyone who saw the scene was shocked.

The police couldn't bring down the possessed students yet this man did it so easily!

Then the amazing sight occurred again.

This time it came from the main gate.

Two students standing there suddenly collapsed.

A woman in her 20s appeared. She wore a training suit with her hair tied back, and her slender figure was reminiscent of a model.

"Agassi (Young lady, used for addressing young, unknown females)! It is dangerous."

"I'll be okay so you guys stay behind."

Two st.u.r.dy men dressed in suits came after her, but it was useless.

She used considerable force to push their hands away.

"Aigoo!"

"This strength!"

In the meantime, she walked from the main gate towards the front door of the school. Then she saw Kang-jun, who came from the other side.

Kang-jun could tell with one glance that she was a sovereign.

It wasn't because she had a distinctive aura.

It was because she took care of two possessed students easily. It was easy to see.

Of course, he had been busy fighting the possessed students in the meantime.

"Who are you?"

The woman in front of him, Jang Seo-yeon asked. Kang-jun answered quietly.

"A person who came with the same purpose as you."

Then Jang Seo-yeon formed a mocking expression.

"I can guess that much. But I will take care of it, so get out of here."

Kang-jun shrugged.

"No matter how valuable the experience is, the situation is like this. Can't you see how terrified the students are?"

It was human nature. Although they had the goal of levelling up as a sovereign, they also needed to help the students. It wasn't the time to fight over experience.

Kang-jun ran straight to the central porch. If he didn't take care of them quickly, an irreversible situation might occur.

Jang Seo-yeon came chasing behind Kang-jun.

"Wait. This is my area."

Kang-jun ignored her words and approached the possessed students. The possessed students felt a sense of crisis and focused on Kang-jun and Jang Seo-yeon.

Even the ones far away ran like the wind and gathered in front of the central porch.

"Kikiki! I will try it once."

"Yihihihit! Do you think you can beat us?"

At that moment, the area changed as the battle field was unfolded.

[A large number of enemies have attacked you and the battle field is automatically activated.]

[Fight with an ally, Sovereign Avia from the Hwanmong Defense Troops 439th Army.]

Kang-jun was surprised. It was amazing that he automatically joined with someone from his army, but also that it was Sovereign Avia.

However, his surprise was incomparable to Jang Seo-yeon's.

Just before the battle field was activated, this message had appeared in front of her.

[Fight with an ally, Sovereign Lucan from the Hwanmong Defense Troops 439th Army.]

Sovereign Lucan! She could never forget that name.

Since the red moon rose, he was the existence she hated the most in the 439th army!

She hadn't forgotten the memory of Lucan's sword in the first training room.

Since then, Lucan had advanced beyond her imagination.

When she saw the message that the ghoul lord mission she thought was impossible was fulfilled, she really wanted to go on a rampage.

That's why she searched through real time reports of evil spirits.

She wanted to win against Lucan. She had to somehow gain experience and raise her level. Yet she ended up meeting Lucan.

"You are Avia?"

"You are Lucan?"

Kang-jun asked casually, but Jang Seo-yeon stared at him with challenging eyes.

However, they had to turn their gazes back to the front again.

"Kikikiki!"

"Kukukuk!"

Although they saw that message that a large number of enemies were attacking, there were over 50 tentacle monsters.

Furthermore, one of them was two to three times bigger than the others and seemed quite powerful.

In the first battlefield of the red moon, there was a battle with more than 100 tentacle monsters. However, there had been 40 sovereigns present.

Now Kang-jun and Jang Seo-yeon had to deal with 50 of them as well as a boss monster.

Therefore, Jang Seo-yeon's face suddenly became confused.

'Oh my G.o.d! Why are there so many?'

Now it wasn't a problem of the experience distribution.

It was whether or not they could win this battle. If they were defeated then terrible things might happen.

Fortunately, it was possible to summon their subordinates here.

She became overconfident after realizing that.

'Okay. I will wipe them all out.'

She immediately summoned her subordinates.

Susu! Sususu.

Blue skin. The face was a lizard. The body looked like a human.

A monster called lizardman.

The five monsters summoned by Jang Seo-yeon were giant lizardmen. They were twice as big as normal lizardmen and were her main troops when taking over buildings.

"Did you call, Lord?"

"Lord! You called us."

Jang Seo-yeon nodded. She wore white armour and had a blue spear in her right hand.

"Jackel! Now is the time to prove your bravery."

Jackel was the strongest one among them. He smiled at the tentacles.

"Those guys?"

"Yes. Call your servants to take care of them."

After that, over 100 lizardmen appeared.

They were lizardmen spearmen.

Then another 200 lizardmen heavy armour fighters showed up.

This was followed by 100 crossbow lizardmen.

Jang Seo-yeon's black magic energy was exhausted after summoning them and she drank a potion. It was a medium sized potion that restored 150 points of black magic energy at once.

Sususu! Susususu!

It seemed like she was trying to show off her troops to Kang-jun. After the lizardmen shamans, lizardmen healers and more than 500 troops were present, she stopped summoning.

She only drank two black magic potions. She finished and stared at Kang-jun.

"The total sovereign doesn't need to move against such things, does he? Leave it to me."

She didn't listen to Kang-jun's answer and cried out loudly.

"Go ahead and sweep them away!"

"Yes, Lord!"

"Everybody charge!"

"Kukik! Wah! Get rid of them!"

"Kukik! Kukikik! For Lord!"

Under Jackel's command, the lizardmen squadrons rushed towards the monsters.

However, Kang-jun didn't summon a single subordinate.

He was even stronger than when he did his first mission on the red moon battlefield.

He had risen seven levels compared to that time!

Furthermore, he was equipped with the legend ranked Ghoul Lord's Heavy Armour and the Ghoul Lord's Heart greatly increased the damage of Heavenly Cut.

In other words, he was good enough to sweep them away alone.

There was no need to trouble himself with summoning his troops.

He judged that it would be better to use his black magic energy on Heavenly Cut.

He decided not to touch Jang Seo-yeon's momentum and just watched for a while. Indeed, they fought well.

"Kikikik!"

"Kukukuku!"

Chwack! Chwaack!

The lizardmen bit at the tentacles flying at their arms and legs.

"Kuweek!"

"Kuwaaack!"

A monster with dozens of arms. That was the tentacle monster. If the body wasn't killed at once then there was bound to be a struggle.

Fortunately, Jackel the lizardman knew how to deal with the tentacles. He commanded his men to attack their bodies.

Of course, quite a few lizardmen died.

Jang Seo-yeon was also fighting fiercely at the vanguard of the lizardmen.

Kang-jun watched her carefully.

Jang Seo-yeon was obviously a gold spoon. Even though she wore a training suit, there was something luxurious about her.

Nevertheless, it was unusual that she would fight the enemy directly in the vanguard.

In addition, her skill at wielding the spear was exceptional. She handled a tentacle monster one-on-one without any difficulty.

Of course, it was trivial when compared to Kang-jun. However, based on Heksia's words, it was highly likely that Jang Seo-yeon had gained an intermediate or advanced spearmans.h.i.+p skill.

Therefore, it was possible for Jang Seo-yeon and her troops to handle the monsters without difficulty.

But then there was a variable.

"Kuaaaah!"

The giant tentacle monster gave a loud roar. At that moment, the size of the monsters increased.

Suok! Suuok!

Even the cut off tentacles became large slimes.

Thanks to the strength of their attacks increasing, Jang Seo-yeon and the lizardmen started being pushed back.

Furthermore, blood was flowing down from her forehead where she had been hit.

Even if Jang Seo-yeon won, it would require a considerable sacrifice of her troops. It would take a long time.

'I will go and finish it off.'

He had watched for a

while to check how well she fought.

The timing didn't matter because it was slowed in reality, but Kang-jun became bored of watching.

Susuk! Hwiririk!

Kang-jun immediately passed between the lizardmen and the tentacles.

"Kuaak!"

"Kuaaack!"

As he passed, the tentacle monsters collapsed.

[18 nodes have been gained.]

[16 nodes have been gained.]

[An intermediate black magic recovery potion has been acquired.]

Kang-jun rushed straight towards the giant tentacle. Everything in his way fell down.

"Kuaaaah!"

At that moment, a giant fireball poured from the mouth of the giant tentacle.

Hwaruruk! Hwaruru!

It was stronger than Kajel!

'This!'

Kang-jun quickly evaded sideways. Still, the fireball caught up and flew close to Kang-jun.

Kwaang!

It sounded like a grenade had exploded. Kang-jun reflexively moved out of the radius, but some of the flames still wrapped around his body.

'There isn't a lot of damage. It is comfortable now that I'm wearing good armour.'

If he knew this then he would have rushed in without hesitation.

"Kuaaaah!"

Kang-jun's sword flashed the moment the giant tentacle opened its mouth to use another fireball.

Flash!

At that moment, the giant tentacle seemed like a stone statue.

Kung! Kuuong!

Then it fell to the ground in two pieces.

[Two intermediate black magic recovery potions have been acquired.]

[One large moonstone has been acquired.]

He earned some j.a.ptem.

The tentacles and slimes returned to their original size.

Kang-jun's sword swept all over the place like a storm.

Papapat!

"Kuwaaack!"

"Keeeek."

Kang-jun swung his sword at all objects that tried to stop him. Everything in front of him seemed to die.

'That is impossible!'

Jang Seo-yeon stared blankly at Kang-jun like she had lost her soul.

'He is now...'

A sigh emerged from her mouth.

The lizardmen were also watching him.

Cheok!

At that time, Kang-jun shook the blood off his sword.

The situation had ended.

Kang-jun nodded towards Jang Seo-yeon who still looked confused.

[You have won the battle.]

[40 points of black magic energy have been acquired.]

[Black Magic Energy: 470/470]

His black magic energy was full again.

Originally he might have received more, but Kang-jun had only consumed 40 points of black magic energy.

He used Heavenly Cut once and Aura of the Wind twice.

After a while, the battle field disappeared.

The students who had been possessed suddenly hesitated.

"Ohh! Why I am here!?"

"Ugh! What happened?"

They cried out frantically as their spirits returned.

"Teacher! The kids are back to normal!"

"Wah! The evil spirits have been chased away!"

"Amazing!"

"They must be exorcists!"

The nervous students and teachers approached Kang-jun and Jang Seo-yeon.

"Rest assured that the evil spirits are gone. Then I will go."

Kang-jun smiled at them before running towards the rear door. It would be a nuisance if he was caught by the police or other people, so he needed to leave as quickly as possible.

And the students flocked around Jang Seo-yeon.

"Wah! Pretty Noona! (honorific used by men for older females) Are you a real exorcist?"

"Unni (honorific used by women for older females) was hurt in the forehead. Were you injured fighting the evil spirits?"

"No, that's not it..."

Jang Seo-yeon was surrounded by students and faced difficulty escaping.

She looked in the direction where Kang-jun had disappeared.

Bururung.

Shortly afterwards, Kang-jun got in his car and started it.

Now this situation was resolved. Kang-jun watched the real-time tips and moved to another place.

At nine in the evening. Jade Incense Restaurant, Cheongdam-dong.

A nicely decorated room in white had 12 people sitting down.

There were three women and nine men.

Their ages ranged from the 20s to 50s.

Among them, a man in his 50s was Yoo Seung-hwan, who called the meeting.

The man in his mid-30s sitting next to him was Kim Kun-woo, also known as Zenith.

They had met at 7 o'clock and after two hours, they decided to form an alliance. They promised that after the red moon was over, they would deal with the opponent Lucan.

"Hahaha! It is nice to open up to each other like this. Who would have thought that Kim Kun-woo, the youngest son of the Cheongma Group, would be Sovereign Zenith?"

Kim Kun-Woo laughed.

"I should be saying that. I would have tried to get closer if I knew that Sovereign Hardis is Yoo Seung-hwan, who is a genius in regards to stocks."

"Hoho! That's what I mean. I should use this opportunity to make some money in stocks, Representative Yoo-nim."

Kim In-hye, a 30 year old female building owner and Park Chang-sup, a businessman in his 40s laughed.

"Hahahat! Correct. Teach me about stocks, Representative Yoo-nim. I am personally a fan. I've read the books about stocks that you wrote. Hahaha."

Yoo Seung-hwan smiled.

"Yes, please come to my company at any time."

"Didn't you say that guy called Lucan was originally living in a gos.h.i.+won? It sounds like he really has good luck."

"Hoho! He isn't a black hen laying a white egg." (proverb for a great person might be born of ordinary parents).

Then Yoo Seung-hwan shook his head.

"But we shouldn't underestimate him. He is a scary guy."

Kim Kun-woo also agreed.

"Representative Yoo-nim is correct. From now on, we have to be vigilant regarding him. As soon as you have enough funds, you should purchase buildings near the Yugang and Dafeng buildings. We need to surround him."

Kim In-hye laughed.

"Can we do that? Right now there is a war ban."

Kim Kun-woo smiled.

"Just look at the buildings owned or occupied by sovereigns. We can find out whether a territory is occupied or not from the Black Dragon Law Firm."

"I understand. Then I will do it."

"I will also participate. We have to unite."

"Me too. Let's work together to survive and get rid of him."

Everyone was willing to participate. Yoo Seung-hwan watched with a slight smile.

'Stupid bastards! After you have ruined Lucan, all of you will be mine.'

However, Yoo Seung-hwan wasn't the only one smiling. Kim Kun-woo also had a strange smile on his face.

'Hardis! I will take care of you after Lucan. Until then, I will work together with you.'

His eyes shone eerily as he drank a glass of wine.

Kang-jun parked his car in the parking lot of the Yugang building.

Starting from the incident at K High School, he solved another seven incidents of possession.

Unfortunately, he didn't get enough experience to level up but he was still proud.

Today he could save dozens of people who would have died.

'I will take a break.'

He immediately took the elevator to the 5th floor.

As soon as he opened the door with his keycard, he saw four people sitting on the living room sofa.

Hayun welcomed Kang-jun.

"You're back. Guests have arrived."

"Guests? These people?"

"Yes. They didn't seem like bad people so I told them to come in and wait. I made ramyun noodles."

He could smell it. Kang-jun was hungry so the smell seemed even more delicious.

But now wasn't the time to eat ramyun.

He wanted to know why they came looking for him.

Ding dong.

Then the doorbell rang. Who was coming at this time? Kang-jun opened the door.

"Who?"

Jang Seo-yeon suddenly stood before him.

"I'll formally greet you. I am Jang Seo-yeon."

She was dressed in a suit compared to the casual training clothes she wore during the day. If she looked like an attractive female trainer during the day, now she was a competent career woman.

But how did she find this place? It wasn't just Jang Seo-yeon, but the guests inside as well.

Of course, the information about sovereigns was exposed so people could find it if they wanted to.

Still, it was surprising that she found him so quickly.

"Are you going to keep me standing outside?"

"Come inside."

"Thank you."

Jang Seo-yeon smiled. On the other hand, the people sitting on the living room sofa also got up and greeted Kang-jun.

A man in his early 30s spoke first.

"I'm sorry that I came here so rudely. I'm Kim Dong-hyun. I run a small company in Seocho-dong."

The next man in his early 40s said.

"Greetings. I am Jung Sung-wook. I own a building in Daechi-dong."

This time, a stylish woman in her mid 40s spoke.

"Please forgive my rudeness. I am Jang Yoo-kyung. I own a restaurant in Cheongdam-dong."

The final person was a woman in her early 20s.

"I'm sorry for coming so late. I am Choi Hyun-joo. I am enrolled in the psychology department at S University and have a building in Nonhyun-dong."

They introduced who they were without Kang-jun even asking. Everyone had a very courteous att.i.tude.

"I am Lee Kang-jun. Please sit down. What is your purpose for visiting me tonight?"

Then Jang Seo-yeon said.

"I am sure they came for the same purpose as me."

"The same purpose as you?"

"The ident.i.ty of Jung Sung-wook sitting there. I know it very well. He is the owner of the 60 billion won Daedo building in Daechi-dong. But it is even more surprising that he is a sovereign."

Jung Sung-wook looked at Jang Seo-yeon nervously.

"I also know that Jang Seo-yeon is the owner of the Ohyun building in Daechi-dong. The only child of Gangnam's big spender, Oh Jae-sa. You are also a sovereign. I just don't know what sovereign."

Gangnam's big spender Oh Jae-sa? The one that was said to hold billions of dollars in real estate? Then how many buildings would she have?

She was so famous that even Kang-jun had heard of her. However, Jang Seo-yeon was Oh Jae-sa's daughter.

Just like the case of Kang-jun and Yoo Seung-hwan, Jang Seo-yeon and Jung Sung-wook seemed to be close compet.i.tors. Jang Seo-yeon nodded and said.

"I'm Sovereign Avia."

Jung Sung-wook's eyes widened with surprise. He hadn't expected that Jang Seo-yeon would be Sovereign Avia who was one of the members of the 439th Army.

"I am Caper."

"Rosina."

"I am Brio."

"Haniel."

Jung Sung-wook was Caper, Jang Yoo-kyung was Rosina, Kim Dong-hyun was Brio and Choi Hyun-joo was Haniel.

Jang Seo-yeon nodded.

"Nice to meet you. Anyway, the purpose of your visit is to form an alliance with Lucan."

"That's right."

Jung Sung-wook scratched his head and gazed at Kang-jun. Kang-jun's expression was serene.

It wasn't unexpected information. After guessing that they were sovereigns, Kang-jun already knew the reason for their visit.

At that time, Kim Dong-hyun glanced at Kang-jun and said.

"I'll speak bluntly. Lucan, we want an alliance with you. We will co-exist and not show hostility towards each other."

"Do you think an alliance will be meaningful?"

"Before the red moon appeared, an alliance between sovereigns was really meaningless. It is because we don't know when we will be stabbed in the back. But now it is different. Sooner or later, everyone will be out in the open. We won't be able to hide anymore."

"But that doesn't change anything. We can't trust each other even if we are out in the open."

"Of course. Honestly, it is too much to hope for a relationship of trust. If it is possible, I would like to maintain a relationship of give or take."

"Give or take?"

Kang-jun asked and this time Choi Hyun-joo replied.

"Lucan, no matter how strong you are, Earth has many sovereigns. Many of them are starting to get together. This is due to the red moon. The era of moving alone is gone."

"How do you know that?"

"Sovereigns are humans. And human psychology is similar. The behaviour of the 40 sovereigns in our army can be seen as a miniature of all of Earth's sovereigns."

Jang Yoo-kyung continued.

"Hardis has already created an alliance hostile towards Lucan."

Jung Sung-wook's eyes flashed as he spoke.

"Alone they are weak, but they become stronger when joined together. Humans form a group to deal with wild beasts. No matter how strong you are, there are limits to surviving on your own."

Kim Dong-hyun said with an intense gaze.

"In the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, a fief couldn't deal with an army of one million troops alone. We can give you strength. The strength to go against one million troops."

"Strength?"

Jang Yoo-kyung replied with

an odd smile.

"It isn't just funding. Information is power."

"Information?"

"I know that recently Lucan met with Hardis. In addition, 12 sovereigns including Hardis and Zenith met today to form an alliance against you. The meeting place was the Jade Incense Restaurant in Cheondam-dong."

Kang-jun was surprised. How did she knew that he met with Yoo Seung-hwan as well as other sovereigns?

"Are you wondering how I know? In fact, I am the owner of the restaurant."

The owner of the fine dining Jade Incense Restaurant was Jang Yoo-kyung?

If so, that made sense.

While concentrating on beating him, they allowed others to jump over them.

Hardis and the others wouldn't be aware that their secret meeting had been discovered.

Kang-jun nodded.

"I roughly understand. By the way, I am curious about why you chose me. Why didn't you go to Hardis?"

At this time, Jang Seo-yeon replied.

"While you were dealing with the ghoul lord, the other sovereigns were waiting in front of the resurrection gem. At that time, Hardis offered me an alliance. He also informed me that you are the owner of the Yugang building. It is probably the same for the other sovereigns."

Something like that had happened. As a matter of fact, he expected Hardis to do something like that. He had no confidence so he proposed an alliance.

"Why did you reject him and come to see me?"

"There are those who go together and those who don't. Hardis is someone who doesn't fit with me. I honestly dislike Hardis more than I do you."

She continued.

"I hate that you are so strong. It is because of jealousy. But Hardis is sly."

Kim Dong-hyun also agreed.

"I think the same. I hate people like Hardis."

Kang-jun asked Jang Seo-yeon.

"But didn't you seem hostile towards me when I met you earlier in the day?"

"To be honest, I was worried at the time. I didn't want to make an alliance that wasn't centered around me. However, my thoughts shifted after watching you in the battle field."

Kang-jun nodded.

He roughly understood why they came to find him.

They didn't want to become enemies with Kang-jun. Furthermore, they wanted to establish an alliance of co-existence!

The night was deepening. Now he had to come to a conclusion.

It was true that he needed allies.

It wasn't even to protect himself if people started aiming at him from every direction.

However, he couldn't trust them.

They wouldn't have reached out to Kang-jun if he wasn't strong.

In reality, all of them had a foundation that Kang-jun couldn't compare to. Among them, Jang Seo-yeon was one of the biggest gold spoons that Kang-jun had ever met.

But even she bowed before Kang-jun's strong attack power.

She didn't want to be his enemy. Joining an alliance!

When looking at it, there would definitely be a reward.

Kang-jun was silent for a while before saying.

"Okay. In the future, we are allies. It isn't a complete alliance, but we won't become hostile to each other. I will watch over you in the future."

He had to take care of them if he wanted it to develop into a full alliance. Jang Yoo-kyung was satisfied just hearing that Kang-jun wouldn't become hostile towards them.

"It is a wise decision."

"Thank you very much, hahaha. Let's survive together until the end."

They seemed confident that there would be a full alliance with Kang-jun in the future. Jang Seo-yeon smiled.

"Thanks to you, I can now sleep comfortably. Recently, I haven't been able to sleep after remembering you killing me."

Kim Dong-hyun also agreed.

"That's right. I really don't want to be your enemy."

The others all looked the same. Kang-jun nodded.

"If you aren't hostile towards me then I won't strike first. Then if you don't have anything else to say, let's end this here for today."

And Choi Hyun-joo said.

"I have something else to say. Hardis and his group made a plan today to isolate Lucan. For example, they are buying the nearby buildings."

It was a simple but powerful method.

Once the red moon was over, a considerable offensive would pour out from the buildings surrounding him.

Choi Hyun-Joo kept talking.

"If they launch a massive offensive then we also need to prepare the same. I can buy one or two of the smaller buildings."

"Then I'll join you."

"Me too."

"Haha, if that is the course you've decided on then I will also join."

Everyone was burning with a will to confront the enemy. They had enough money anyway.

Kang-jun just smiled.

"It is up to you. But if I receive help then I will return the favour."

Then he said.

"It is late. If you want to sleep here then I am happy to offer an empty room."

There were enough rooms for five people. However, he didn't really think they would sleep here.

As expected, everyone got up.

"I have many things to do, Lucan."

"I will see you in Hwanmong, Lucan."

They gave him their contract details and left.

Kang-jun immediately fell asleep.

The next day, Kang-jun watched the real-time reports and hunted evil spirits. He chased them all day and was able to get rid of dozens of them.

Thanks to that, he levelled up and reached Lv27.

Of course, the other sovereigns also played a role. Therefore, the evil spirits were swept away at a rapid rate.

As a result, various SNS talked about the mysterious exorcists, and people preferred that the exorcists arrived rather than the police. Thanks to that, Kang-jun wasn't alone in the spotlight.

However, he didn't know that one of the hottest stories on SNS was about the silver-haired exorcist. There were photos of Kang-jun driving a Venta S class so his popularity rose to that of a celebrity.

Anyway, today was the day to go to Hwanmong.

Kang-jun fell asleep while listening to Hayun's lullaby.

[The door to Hwanmong is open.]

[You have entered the world of Hwanmong.]

This time, he received a command scroll immediately. Kang-jun arrived at the army headquarters through the portal.

'Today it is headquarters instead of the battlefield.'

As he entered, Command Heksia sat firmly on the throne and some sovereigns were already waiting.

"Welcome, Lucan. Wait until everyone else has arrived."

"Yes."

Kang-jun replied to Heksia and went to his designated spot. After a while, all the sovereigns arrived.

Heksia got up and declared.

"Everyone will be going to the training room. As I said last time, I will give you a chance to prove how strong you are."

After her speech was over, the surroundings changed.

It was a huge enclosed stone room.

There was a red gem on one side of it.

It was a very familiar training room.

Heksia immediately swept a glance over the sovereigns and said,

"I will choose the total sovereign again. That method is to challenge the current total sovereign, Lucan, and take him down. Your achievements won't be cut if you are defeated. However, in the case of victory, you will become the total sovereign and receive 50 achievement points. Any challengers, come out."

The strong-willed Zenith pulled out his axe then.

"I will do it."

"Okay. Start."

Zenith instantly rushed toward Kang-jun and wielded his axe. The axe grew three or four times larger and literally exploded in Kang-jun's s.p.a.ce.

Kwaang!

'I won.'

Zenith was delighted. This was his strongest skill.

If he hit properly with the axe, it was a power that couldn't be tolerated even by an ogre or a minotaur.

The last time, he had been confused and couldn't use this skill. However, this time he was confident of his victory.

But unlike his expectations, Kang-jun had already escaped the radius of the skill.

Sukeok!

Then Kang-jun's sword flashed and Zenith's head was cut off.

Kung!

Zenith's body turned into smoke and appeared in front of the resurrection jewel.

"s.h.i.+t! It is a scam. This is nonsense!"

He screamed. Heksia snorted and glanced at the other sovereigns.

"The next challenger."

"No one?"

The sovereigns all avoided Heksia's eyes.

Avia was more compet.i.tive than the others, yet she showed no signs of moving.

"What? This is so boring. There is nothing to lose when you die, so don't any of you want to challenge him?"

She taunted them.

"Then the total sovereign is Lucan."

[You have earned 50 red moon achievement points.]

The message was sent to Kang-jun straight away.

'It feels like I got it without doing anything.'

If that was the case, the gap would increase even further.

Heksia turned toward Kang-jun.

"Lucan! Be vigilant. You are still a frog inside a well. The sovereigns of the other armies are also building up achievement points like you."

That's right. Kang-jun's compet.i.tors weren't the sovereigns in the 439th Army.

The sovereigns of the other armies, particularly the strongest of them, would be his true compet.i.tors.

"I know. So, let's go destroy the subordinates of the Second Demon King."

Heksia nodded.

"Since the ghoul lord was defeated last time, many nagas have been attacking our territory."

Nagas were monsters with the head of a person but the body of a snake.

"Then there is a war with the nagas."

"I haven't seen the naga queen appear yet but I still think I should take the vanguard today."

"I understand."

"However, not you. Right now, I have a request for a.s.sistance from another army."

"Request for a.s.sistance?"

Heksia nodded.

"I am the commander of the army and can't leave this area, so you will lead any volunteers."

Heksia immediately cried out to the other sovereigns.

"The 438th Army has asked for support. Does anyone want to go with the total sovereign to help? Except for the volunteers, the other sovereigns will go with me to hunt nagas."

Five sovereigns, including Avia, raised their hands without hesitation.

"I will go help."

"I will follow the total sovereign."

They were the sovereigns allied with Kang-jun.

Apart from them, no one else decided to go help.

It was the same for the other sovereigns, not just the ones in Hardis' alliance.

They thought it would be better to hunt monsters safely with the commander than to go somewhere unknown.

Heksia nodded.

"Okay. Instead, you must follow the command of the total sovereign on the battlefield."

"Yes."

"I understand."

Hardis' and Zenith's eyes narrowed as Avia, Caper, Haniel, Brio and Rosina followed Kang-jun.

'What? Have they joined up with Lucan?'

'Do they think it will be safe to make us their enemies?'

However, Avia and the others didn't even blink.

They didn't ally with Kang-jun because they were afraid of Hardis or Zenith. They only feared Kang-jun.

Heksia handed a scroll to Kang-jun.

"Lucan, give this to Commander Grania of the 438th Army."

"Yes."

"Then move to that portal. Good luck."

A new magic circle appeared on the floor and Kang-jun entered the magic circle with Avia.

After a few moments, Kang-jun appeared at the battlefield where the red moon was floating.

"Kihihihi!"

"Kalkalkakal!"

A s.h.i.+eld was spread out over a certain radius around the resurrection gem and laughter could be heard from every direction.

He could see pale faces with pointed fangs protruding from the mouth. They were vampires.

"Kill these d.a.m.n vampires!"

"Kyaaak!"

"Kalkalkakal!"

"Give me blood!"

"Aaaah! H-help...aaaack!"

A group of people were fighting the vampires.

Of course, they were the sovereigns from the 438th Army.

Some sovereigns were able to get rid of a few vampires but more sovereigns were falling to them.

However, their battle was nothing compared to the other one taking place.

A woman with blue wings and a man with huge bat wings were engaging in a fierce battle.

Hwaruru! Kuaang!

Pajik! Jijijik!

Lava-like flames flashed in their air. Clouds formed in the sky and lightning flashed down.

It was a spectacular sight.

Unlike Heksia and the ghoul lord who fought physically, magic was prevalent in this battle.

Avia stiffened as she saw them.

It was at that moment.

"Aaaaack!"

There was a horrifying scream and the woman with blue wings crashed to the ground.

"Kuhahahahaha!"

The man with bad wings just laughed coldly from the sky.

Sususu.

At the same time, the woman with blue wings appeared in front of Kang-jun. She was the woman who had just crashed. She staggered and groaned.

"Ha!

I don't know how many times I've died. If it wasn't for the Jewel of Darkness..."

She suddenly turned and looked at Kang-jun, then she said with a straightforward att.i.tude.

"I am Commander Grania of the 438th Army. Who are you?"

Commander Grania? She was a commander and she just died. This must be a terrible battlefield for a commander to have died.

Kang-jun immediately handed her the scroll.

"I am Lucan, the total sovereign from the 439th Army. Commander Heksia ordered me to give you support."

Grania unfolded the scroll and read the contents.

"Ah! Are you that Lucan? The sovereign who made a decisive contribution against the ghoul lord."

"You know about me?"

"Heksia complimented you so much that I got a tick in my ear."

"I was just lucky."

"I don't care if it was just luck. As you can see, I am currently in a desperate situation. There isn't a competent sovereign in this army, so no one has succeeded. They all died as soon as they entered the mansion."

Grania raised her hand and pointed to a place.

A large mansion could be seen on a distant hill.

"The Jewel of Darkness is in that mansion. Whether you are lucky or skillful, please destroy it as soon as possible."

"Will we get anything for destroying the Jewel of Darkness?"

"Of course. If any of you complete the mission, they will receive 100 achievement points and the others will receive 50 points. In addition, the one with the largest contribution will be given extra compensation. How about it? Can you do it?"

"I will do it."

The attack power of the vampires seemed to be superior to the ghouls, so it was a tough mission.

"Then I will go and deal with the vampire lord."

Grania flew back to the vampire lord.

Kwarururung! Flas.h.!.+ Pajijijik!

The magic battle started once again.

Kang-jun looked at Avia and said,

"I will rush ahead to the mansion. Follow behind me and take care of the enemies on the side."

"Yes."

"I understand."

Avia and the others were nervous. Even if Kang-jun pierced a path, it wasn't easy to pa.s.s the area filled with infested vampires.

Moreover, it wouldn't end when they reached the mansion.

They didn't know what it might be filled with.

It would be hard to find and destroy the Jewel of Darkness.

Kang-jun raised the Warrior's Sword and said,

"If you die then just wait here in front of the resurrection gem. Coming alone can also cause death. Also, those who don't have any confidence should just stay here. You will still be given a reward anyway."

Avia and the others shook their heads.

"I can't do that."

"Even if I end up dying, I want to try it at least once."

"We can't receive compensation without even trying."

Kang-jun just smiled.

"Then let's depart."

"Yes, total sovereign."

Avia and the others tightened their grip on their weapons.

The moment that Kang-jun ran out of the s.h.i.+eld,

Chwack!

"Kyaaak!"

A vampire that had been hitting the s.h.i.+eld fell down with a wound in its chest.

Sukeok!

Another vampire was cut at the neck and died. Avia saw it and hurriedly exclaimed.

"There is no time to hesitate. Go and follow behind Lucan."

"Yes."

Avia and the others followed Kang-jun.

Kang-jun adjusted his speed so that they could follow.

However, the vampires were clever and quick. They approached like shadows and attacked secretly.

"Kihihihi!"

"Aack!"

Eventually, Haniel was bitten by a vampire and died.

'd.a.m.n!'

Unfortunately, Kang-jun couldn't do anything about it since he was running ahead.

Of course, he could move slowly and protect everyone but the situation didn't allow it.

Like Grania said, they were running out of time.

If the sovereign couldn't come out, then it was better for them to wait at the resurrection gem.

"Aaaagh!"

"Kyaaack!"

Caper and Rosina were the next ones slain by vampires.

Kang-jun ignored the screams behind him and ran forward. Even if they were in an alliance, he couldn't protect them like they were children. They needed to raise their skills themselves.

"Aaaah! These guys, come on! Kuaack!"

In the end, even Brio was. .h.i.t by the vampires.

At this time, Kang-jun arrived at the mansion. Avia killed the vampires and approached. She gazed at Kang-jun.

"We finally arrived at the mansion."

"There will be many enemies inside, so be careful."

"Don't worry. I can protect my own body."

Avia smiled confidently as she held up her blue spear. Kang-jun nodded and entered the front door of the mansion.

Kwatang!

The door was broken and a garden with many black flowers could be seen.

"Intruders!"

"Kill them!"

There were vampire magicians wearing red robes.

Blackish red flames emerged from their hands.

Hwaruru! Hwarururu!

Receiving damage couldn't be avoided.

's.h.i.+t! This is why the sovereigns died.'

Kang-jun just rushed through the flames.

It was something he wouldn't have been able to do without his legend grade armour.

Hwaruru!

Fortunately, the flames winding around his body disappeared without a trace. Additionally, only a little bit of his health was reduced.

"Ohh!"

"Avoid it!"

The confused vampire magicians tried to flee but Kang-jun's sword was faster. Avia also ran quickly and swung her spear.

Supapak!

"Aaack!"

"Cough!"

The vampire magicians collapsed helplessly.

Kang-jun moved forward.

'Over there.'

A s.h.i.+ny black jewel was inside the garden!

It was the Jewel of Darkness.

Surprisingly, a man with bat wings was guarding it. Both his eyes burned blood red.

"Huhuhuhu, you have amazing skills to come this far."

The pale skin and red eyes were filled with madness.

An eerie aura was coming from him.

'What? Are there two vampire lords?'

Grania and the vampire lord were still fighting fiercely in the air, yet there was another vampire lord here.

(Lucan. He is a clone of the vampire lord.)

It was Grania's voice.

(His clone can't use a lot of magic but he is still a tough opponent to deal with. You have to destroy the jewel somehow.)

"Kuhuhuhu! Then shall we make this a festival of blood?"

At that time, the man giggled and disappeared.

"Kuook!"

And there was a scream from the rear.

Kang-jun turned around to see the man biting Avia's neck.

"Ah..."

Avia turned pale as her blood was sucked and turned into smoke.

"Kikikik! Delicious. Too fresh."

The man poked out his tongue and gazed at Kang-jun.

[Mission 12] Destroy the vampire lord's clone and the Jewel of Darkness.

-Compensation: Experience, 6000 nodes, 20 large moonstones.

At that moment, the 12th mission appeared.

It was one more reason to kill the vampire.

A strange light then gleamed in the man's eyes.

"Huhuhuhu, lowly slave! Your blood is mine! Now give your blood to your master..."

The man's eyes widened and Kang-jun frowned slightly.

Lowly slave! Blood! Blood!

The same sound kept entering his ears, so he really felt like he had to give his blood.

However, Kang-jun soon recovered his spirit.

This was the vampire's unique bewitchment!

The vampire lord's clone could also use bewitchment magic.

But just like Heksia's alter ego, Kang-jun was only slightly shaken up and escaped from it easily.

This was the special ability given by the wyvern wing, his sovereign token.

-Immune to fear and deception

Kang-jun placed a hand on his chest.

'It looks like bewitchment magic doesn't work on me. Without the wyvern ring, something bad would have happened.'

On the other hand, the man didn't know Kang-jun had such a thing and had a calm smile on his face.

He was convinced that Kang-jun had been caught by his bewitchment as Kang-jun wasn't showing any contrary signs.

He didn't want to drag the fight out for too long.

For that reason, Kang-jun didn't show any expressions.

Seuk. Suuk.

The man leisurely approached Kang-jun.

"Kuhuhuhu! Fresh blood! It is dedicated to me! Lowly slave!

Once he was three metres away from Kang-jun...

At that moment, Kang-jun's sword glowed.

Flash

It flashed from the man's head to his crotch.

"Kuheok! This!"

At that moment, the man disappeared and showed up 30 metres away.

"Kuooh! T-this isn't possible!"

A line of blood descended from the man's head to his crotch. The blood that was dripping down gradually became thicker.

Jjeok!

That wasn't the end of it. As the line of blood deepened, blood started flowing out like a fountain.

"Kuaaak!"

The man's complexion became pale and he staggered.

Kang-jun clicked his tongue with amazement.

He was able to make the Heavenly Cut but the man's body wasn't cut in half.

'As expected from the vampire lord's clone, he has high defense.'

The power of Heavenly Cut was strengthened by the Ghoul Lord's Heart.

Even the giant tentacle monster had been cut in half. None of the evil spirits or creatures he'd met since then had survived the Heavenly Cut.

Still, the vampire was half dead.

The centre line of the human body was where all the important parts were gathered.

That area was cut.

'It is impossible for a normal person to survive.'

Kang-jun approached the man swiftly.

He would use Heavenly Cut as long as the opponent was formidable.

However, the man's body disappeared as soon as Kang-jun approached. He once again appeared 30 metres away from Kang-jun.

"Kuooh! I can't believe it. A mere human sovereign..."

The man staggered but didn't collapse. This was due to a vampire's unique survival skills.

However, Kang-jun also seized this opportunity. He used Aura of the Wind to increase his movement speed and rushed toward the man.

Sususu.

The man disappeared once again but this time, the distance decreased to 25 metres.

'His strength is falling.'

He was getting pushed back. Kang-jun headed toward the man once again.

It was at that moment.

"Strange. Why aren't those guys protecting the mansion?"

"There was a bunch of magicians in this area earlier."

"Ah, over there. The Jewel of Darkness is there!"

Five people entered mansion's garden.

They were sovereigns from the 438th Army.

They had already passed through the outer defenses of the mansion and died twice. That was due to the attacks of the magicians at the entrance.

So this time, they decided to come together with all of the strongest ones.

There were five sovereigns including the total sovereign, Radel.

The vampires in the mansion were strong but they were also jealous that other sovereigns had come as reinforcements. They couldn't lose their achievement points to the sovereigns from other armies.

They had to destroy the Jewel of Darkness!

So, it was common sense to band together.

However, their appearance brought disaster to Kang-jun.

The eyes of the vampire fleeing from Kang-jun shone with joy at the sight of the new sovereigns.

"Aack!"

One sovereign fell down and the man stood there, licking his lips.

"Kuhuhuhu! Praiseworthy people! You will be my blood sacrifices."

"Cough!"

Another sovereign was dragged away. The man's injuries had recovered fully.

Kang-jun had no time to stop him.

He was able to move fast with Aura of the Wind but the man moved toward the sovereigns a lot faster.

Chwaaak!

A white web emerged from the man's hand and wound around the three surviving sovereigns.

"Ohh!"

"T-this!"

Three sovereigns, including the total sovereign, Radel, were tied up helplessly.

"Kukukuk! You wait there for a while. I want to eat you straight away, but I'll save you for recovery."

Human sovereigns were better than potions for

him.

"Ugh! Cheeky sovereign! Now, I will get back at you. I will kill you slowly and painfully."

The man approached with a pair of daggers in his hands. His movements were completely different from before.

"I feel more comfortable when you come out like this. It isn't as tiring as dealing with someone who keeps running away."

Kang-jun smiled like he was pleased.

Of course, inwardly he was thinking something different.

'Why did they have to come along now?'

He had been winning. It was like having a table of food laid out, only to have ashes sprinkled on it.

So, it was natural to feel upset.

But it had already happened.

Now, he had to think only about winning against the vampire lord's clones.

Pak! Papak!

Daggers were headed toward him. The man had thrown them from a distance of 10 metres.

Chang! Chakang! Cha chang!

The man's attack was quick but Kang-jun blocked them all.

This was because his level had risen to 27 and Heaven's Blood Sword Style had also become stronger.

Kang-jun was like a swordsman who practiced the sword for a long time. His two feet naturally shifted to maintain the most stable posture when wielding the sword.

The man started wielding his daggers at a crazy speed.

Papapat!

Chachachang! Chachachachang!

Kang-jun received all the attacks and unleashed a skill at the same time.

'Heavenly Cut!'

Flash

However, this time the man moved away like he was prepared for it.

He couldn't avoid it completely, so one arm was bloody and tattered.

"Kuooh! A really disgusting guy."

The man disappeared again and after he appeared, there were screams.

"Aack!"

"Kyaaak!"

The sovereigns became bloody quickly.

After absorbing the blood of two sovereigns, the man grew by a meter. The muscles of his body swelled up and a dark red light glowed like flames in both eyes.

"Kukukukukuku!"

The man glanced at his last remaining recovery pill.

"Ohh!"

A sovereign was tied up and couldn't move.

He was Radel, the total sovereign of the 438th Army.

The others were dead and he alone remained.

Radel wondered why the vampire had left him alone.

Would he be spared?

However, that ridiculous thought disappeared as soon as he saw the vampire licking his lips.

'Kukukuk! Wait a moment. You are the most delicious prey that I will eat later.'

That voice had then entered his ears.

Saving him to eat at a later time!

Radel sighed.

The strongest of the 438th Army was in this sort of situation.

Of course, he didn't feel complete despair.

He had already died twice at this mansion, so there was nothing special about dying again.

It was just a shame that his achievement points would be reduced.

However, there was something else that made him feel despair.

A mysterious presence that was powerful enough to not get pushed back by the vampire but rather, injured him instead!

Lucan, the total sovereign from the 439th Army!

The sovereign name glittered on his chest, so it wasn't hard to guess. He was a total sovereign like Radel.

'Lucan! What is he? I heard that everyone became a sovereign at the same time, so how can he be so overwhelmingly strong?'

Lucan's power was in a whole different dimension. It was at that moment that Radel, who had reigned over the 438th Army, felt his pride being crushed.

Meanwhile, the battle between the man and Kang-jun had started again.

Chakang! Kaaaang!

'Ugh! shit!'

The man increased his strength several times like he was in a berserk state, so Kang-jun was pushed back.

Kakakaang! Kukang! Kwaang!

There was an explosion every time the daggers and sword collided.

Flash

There was a glow from the Heavenly Cut! However, the man knew the attack was coming and crossed his two daggers together in a cross shape.

Kwaang!

There was a loud sound. The man took two steps back, but Kang-jun was also pushed by the recoil.

'A monster took on the Heavenly Cut directly.'

Additionally, the man didn't seem to receive much damage. Kang-jun used Heavenly Cut continuously.

Flash Flash

Kwaang! Kakakaang!

The man kept his daggers crossed. There was blood at Kang-jun's mouth but the man was fine.

Jjejejeok!

Furthermore, the Warrior's Sword started to crack a little bit.

'This!'

It was a rare grade weapon but even that had a limit.

If this situation continued on, his blade may break. The odds of that happening weren't zero.

"Huhuhu! Take this!"

The man started counterattacking as Kang-jun stopped moving.

Kakakaang! Kakang!

Kang-jun was pushed back every time the daggers flew.

There was a shock from the damage and his health declined.

Health: 599/710.

Of course, the damage wasn't that much. It was due to the strong defense of the Ghoul Lord's heavy armour.

'Aura of Earth!'

Kang-jun waited for the timing of Aura of the Wind to disappear and switched to Aura of Earth.

He gave up fast movement speed and used Aura of the Earth to increase his defense!

As the Warrior's Sword and Aura of Earth combined, his defensive power rose rapidly.

This had been the method he used to fight the ogre, Germuz, in the past and he'd defeated Germuz.

Now that it combined with the power of a legend rated armour, his defense was much more powerful.

Kang! Kakang!

It wasn't surprising that he didn't receive any damage. It was easier to push back the dagger with his sword and fight back.

Kang! Kakang! Chwack! Chwaack!

"Kuuack!"

The sides and chest of the man were covered with blood. The injuries weren't due to a skill but were instead caused by pure swordsmanship.

Kang-jun's capabilities revealed the gaps the enemy had, making it hard for the man to evade the attacks.

Chwack! Chwaack! Chwaaaak!

Kang-jun's sword cut the man. Once there was a gap, the man wasn't able to escape. The man's body became bloody again.

"Kuooh! It is really unbelievable."

Despite being in a berserk state, the man was still injured.

However, he still had a method of recovery available.

He had left someone behind for this very moment.

As the man prepared to move to where Radel was, Kang-jun smiled coldly.

'It won't work.'

He had seen it a few times already today.

The vampires' fearsome resilience meant they would recover unless they were killed!

It would be a ha.s.sle if he recovered again this time. The gaps were gradually increasing.

Therefore, Kang-jun had been slowly moving in the direction of the Jewel of Darkness during the battle.

He was now only 10 metres away!

He would destroy the Jewel of Darkness as the man absorbed blood.

And that moment came.

Sususu.

As expected, the man disappeared from before Kang-jun. Kang-jun didn't hesitate and rushed toward the Jewel of Darkness.

The man freaked out and appeared in the direction of the Jewel of Darkness to block Kang-jun.

"Kukukuk! You dare...!"

His sword struck the man's neck.

At the same time, an eerie sound was heard as he cut through bone.

"Keoooook! Unbelievable!"

The man trembled. He grabbed his neck and gazed at Kang-jun.

"Goodbye, vampire!"

In fact, Kang-jun hadn't run toward the Jewel of Darkness. He'd just made a motion and pretended like he was going to.

He guessed the point where the man would appear and hit him with Heavenly Cut.

Duk!

In the end, the man's head rolled off his body and fell to the ground. The body that lost its head was destroyed.

'I'm tired.'

It had been a tough fight but it wasn't that difficult until the other sovereigns appeared in the middle.

[Your level has risen.]

[1,800 nodes have been gained.]

[32 small moonstones have been acquired.]

[11 large moonstones have been acquired.]

[The vampire lord's silver box has been acquired.]

Unlike when he killed the ghoul lord, his level only rose by one this time.

It was because the vampire lord was a clone.

Money and moonstones also came pouring out. Additionally, the vampire lord's silver box!

However, right now, it wasn't a situation where he could relax.

The vampire lord was angry over the death of his clone and shot a huge flame from the sky.

"How dare you! I can't forgive you. You lowlife bastard!"

Hwaruru!

Flames enveloped him from the sky!

There was no place to avoid it.

Kang-jun thought quickly and rushed toward the Jewel of Darkness.

Hwaruruk!

Flames wrapped around his whole body.

'Ugh!'

It was unthinkable! His whole body seemed like it was melting.

The Ghoul Lord's Heavy Armour protected Kang-jun's body but its defense was limited.

Health: 112/730.

Despite just levelling up, his health quickly reached the bottom.

If this continued on, he would really die.

But even if he died, he would just be resurrected anyway. He just needed to do one more thing.

'I have to destroy the Jewel of Darkness before I die!'

Kang-jun used a skill.

'Heavenly Cut!'

Flas.h.!.+ Paak!

The Jewel of Darkness turned into powder.

At that moment.

[Mission 12 has been completed.]

[As a reward, enough experience will be given to increase your level.]

[6,000 nodes have been given as compensation.]

[20 large moonstones have been given as compensation.]

The messages seemed slow but the effects had already been applied.

The mission was completed just before his health reached zero and his level rose again. At this point, his health was restored and the maximum value increased.

Health: 750/750.

Of course, the flame damage kept occurring but the rate had slowed down.

Health: 452/750.

Flames were still burning the garden but a blue s.h.i.+eld formed around Kang-jun's body and pushed away the flames.

(I worried that my s.h.i.+eld was too late. However, I'm glad that you didn't die. It is really surprising how you managed to endure it. I can see why Heksia praised you.)

It was Commander Grania's voice again.

The vampire lord fighting her had suddenly fired at Kang-jun.

It was powerful and fatal to sovereigns!

Radel, the total sovereign, was near the flames, so his life was in danger.

Therefore, Grania covered Radel and Lucan with a s.h.i.+eld at the same time.

However, Radel had melted before the s.h.i.+eld was triggered and Lucan had endured it. This was despite the fact that he received stronger damage than Radel.

(Sovereign Lucan! I will destroy the vampire lord since you have taken care of the Jewel of Darkness. Now you will be rewarded for your achievements.)

Her voice was excited. The vampire lord was still alive, yet she was convinced of her victory?

Then a new message appeared.

[The reinforcement mission has been completed.]

[You have destroyed the Jewel of Darkness.]

[You have earned 100 red moon achievement points.]

The rewards for his achievement arrived. By this time, Avia and the other sovereigns who were waiting at the resurrection gem would be given 50 achievement points.

Kang-jun's mission was over.

The support mission had been to destroy the Jewel of Darkness, not kill the vampire lord.

Grania's figure disappeared as she fought the vampire lord in the air.

However, Commander Grania had promised him additional compensation. So, Kang-jun waited without leaving his position.

'Should I open the box?'

The vampire lord's silver box he obtained was in his inventory.

The size was small.

It was a lower ranked box than the golden treasure chest but it was still a box.

Kang-jun opened it instantly.

'A book?'

[Vampire Mage]

It was a thick book t.i.tled, Vampire Mage.

He could tell it was an old book just by looking at the cover.

There was a picture of a vampire similar to the ones at the entrance of the mansion.

'What is this?'

He felt somewhat reluctant but decided to touch it.

Suuk.

At that moment, the vampire and bizarre letters made of flames were sucked into his head.

[Intermediate knowledge about the vampire magic has been acquired.]

It was knowledge.

Usually, there was a rare chance of a knowledge scroll being dropped if he killed many monsters.

This was the first time it appeared in the form of a book.

[You can summon a vampire mage in the barracks by constructing a magic tower.]

[Vampire Mage]

-Resources: 100 nodes,

1 Essence of Darkness

-It is possible to summon one if you have 3 charisma points

'Oh! This is?'

It was possible to summon them as long as the magic tower was built. Of course, there was a limit to the knowledge gained.

'I need a magic tower.'

The offensive power of the vampire mages wasn't a joke. If Kang-jun hadn't been wearing legend grade armour, he might have been turned to ashes.

If he could summon vampire mages, his base power would increase a lot.

The problem was the magic tower.

He had yet to see a place where he could build a magic tower in an occupied territory.

'I'll have to ask Kajel.'

Kajel specialized in things related to magic.

It was at that moment that a huge storm occurred again in the quiet sky.

Flas.h.!.+ Pajijijik!

"Kuaaaaak!"

The man with red wings fell down with a terrible scream.

He was the vampire lord.

Kwarurung! Jijijik!

Grania sent another lightning spell toward the falling vampire lord.

Pasususu -

The body of the vampire lord turned to smoke and scattered.

'Dead.'

Thus, the body of the vampire lord disappeared.

At the same time, Grania landed in front of Kang-jun. She had a very pleasant expression on her face.

"Hoho! I finally caught him after a long chase. I also received a heart, so I feel good."

A heart. Did it mean that Grania received the heart of the vampire lord?

It was an item that Heksia wanted to obtain.

It was a very good item for Kang-jun.

However, the vampire lord never attacked Kang-jun directly, so he had no claim over it.

Kang-jun just smiled.

"Congratulations on getting the heart."

"Thank you. It is all thanks to you."

Grania handed something to Kang-jun.

"Now, take this. It is the extra reward like I promised."

It was a glowing long sword with an eerie black blade. At the first glance, it didn't look ordinary.

"A sword?"

Grania laughed at Kang-jun's amazement.

"I received two golden boxes. The heart is necessary for me but it seems like you need the sword more. I saw that your sword is broken."

Like she said, the Warrior's Sword was no longer suitable to be used as a sword.

Of course, he didn't want to throw away this sword.

It was a rare item with the option to increase his defense when he used Aura of Earth.

Repairing it was easy.

If he kept it in the base warehouse, it would be repaired and its durability recovered.

"Then I will gratefully receive it."

Kang-jun placed the Warrior's Sword in his inventory and grabbed the sword from Grania.

[Vampire Lord's Sword]

-Rating: Legend

-It has a strong durability due to the special ability of the vampire lord.

-The sword's attack power will increase greatly when used with Aura of Darkness.

-When attacking, there is a low probability of absorbing the target's health.

A legend grade weapon.

It also had two amazing options.

Of course, one of them had no power right now because Kang-jun hadn't acquired the Aura of Darkness skill yet.

But that wasn't a problem.

In the end, the last option was the real jackpot.

Health absorption!

If the attack was successful, there was a chance to absorb health from the enemy.

The probability was low but that didn't matter. It would be a great help even if this ability was activated once in a dozen times.

During fierce battles, there were often times when he couldn't afford to drink a potion to restore his health.

"The sword suits you."

"I like it very much."

"I'm glad. Then I'll see you next time if there is another chance. Thank you for the work today, Sovereign Lucan."

Grania waved her hands and chanted a spell.

Hwaaack!

A glittering light wrapped around his body and Kang-jun reappeared back at the 439th Army headquarters.

Hwakak! Hwaaak!

Kang-jun was followed by Avia. She greeted Kang-jun excitedly.

"Lucan! What happened to that terrible guy? I got the reward thanks to you but I don't deserve it."

Avia fidgeted with one side of her neck. She still seemed to be shocked by the vampire lord's clone sucking her blood.

Caper, Rosina and Brio also scratched their heads.

"I am really ashamed of myself, total sovereign."

"I didn't help but was still rewarded."

"I'll do better next time."

In particular, Haniel who died first was apologetic.

"I'm sorry. I will increase my skills in the future so that I don't become disruptive."

However, their expressions were s.h.i.+ning brightly. These were the first achievement points they received after the red moon rose.

Hwaaak!

Then the magic circle glowed and Heksia appeared in a tired state. She wasn't in a very good mood but she looked happier after seeing Kang-jun.

"The total sovereign is back. The mission?"

"It was completed successfully."

"Huhu, as expected from the total sovereign. But thanks to that, our side was a total failure. I shouldn't have sent you as support."

Heksia sighed.

"Did the naga queen appear?"

"I'll explain later. For now, there is something more important than that. Enter the palace."

"Sure."

Kang-jun nodded. Kang-jun entered the palace where the other sovereigns were already waiting.

Everyone seemed to have bitter expressions on their faces, so something must have happened against the nagas.

Heksia sat on the throne and said.

"Everybody listen up. After the red moon rises, there will be a periodic a.s.sessment of your accomplishments."

Periodic a.s.sessments. What did that mean? The expressions of the sovereigns stiffened.

"The commanders decided this in order to encourage and motivate the sovereigns. Therefore, you will keep being evaluated in the future."

Naturally, the sovereigns frowned. Those who lost most of their achievement points wouldn't be happy.

"Everything will be judged thoroughly. People who have less than the standard number of achievement points will be punished, while those who have more will be rewarded. Then the achievements will be reset."

She said with a calm expression.

"For those who feel like they are lacking achievement points, place your moonstones in the box in front of you. Then the value of the moonstones will be added to your achievement points."

Heksia waved her hands and a large box appeared at the side of her throne.

Multiple sovereigns ran up to the box. The moonstones they received from killing monsters or mission accomplishments were placed in the box.

Of course, Kang-jun didn't move.

He currently had 560 achievement points.

It would increase if he exchanged his moonstones but he kept in mind what Han Yeon-soo said.

After a few moments.

Heksia raised a hand.

"It is over now, so everyone go back to your spots."

The sovereigns returned to their positions.

Heksia closed the lid of the box.

Hwaaak!

There was a bright light and the box disappeared.

Hwaaak!

After a while, a different box appeared in its place.

Ttalkak!

Heksia immediately opened the box.

There were many scrolls inside.

There were 40 of them.

The name of each sovereign was displayed on the scroll.

"Sovereign Lucan!"

Heksia called out. Kang-jun approached and Heksia handed him the scroll.

"Now, take this."

"What is it?"

"Read the evaluation yourself. The contents are different for everyone."

"Yes."

Heksia continued to distribute the scrolls to the other sovereigns.

Kang-jun returned to his position and opened the scroll.

[Lucan, the total sovereign from the 439th Army!

During the invasion of the Second Demon King Colladikus, you have truly amazed the commanders and shown great achievements on the red moon battlefield.

The achievements you've accomplished during this short period will inspire all the sovereigns in Earth Hwanmong.

I will keep watching your work from now on.]

Those words appeared when Kang-jun opened the scroll. At the same time, some messages appeared immediately.

[You are special, amazing and have great achievements.]

[You are at the forefront of most sovereigns.]

[Your level has increased by 3.]

[Charisma has permanently increased by 2.]

'Charisma increased?'

Kang-jun's eyes widened.

It was unbelievable that he went up to Lv32 at once but that wasn't the part he was amazed about.

He normally gained one level when completing a mission, so he had expected a similar reward.

However, charisma was a fixed stat and it had permanently increased by two points.

Lv.32 (Exp 00.00%)

[War] Intermediate

Health: 810/810.

Black Magic Energy: 550/550

Strength: 36 (+5)

Agility: 37 (+5)

Intelligence: 33

Good Luck: 7

Charisma 11 (+4)

'Haha!'

His hard work had been rewarded. If he hadn't risked his life fighting monsters, he wouldn't have received such compensation.

[Your achievement points have been adjusted to 100 points.]

[Your achievement points have been reduced by 460 points.]

By the way, the rewards for his achievements didn't end here.

No, they were just getting started.

[As a reward for the reduced achievement points, the effect of your charisma has greatly increased the abilities of your household members.]

His charisma had an effect on his household members? They referred to the subordinates that Kang-jun accepted directly, not the ones he summoned to the barracks.

[Hayun's abilities have risen.]

[Keirun's abilities have risen.]

[Rodiam's abilities have risen.]

[Colt's abilities have risen.]

[Germuz's abilities have risen.]

[Kajel's abilities have risen.]

'Unbelievable! These are the rewards for my achievements?'

Kang-jun's mouth dropped open. Having his charisma rise was already an incredible reward. The power of his household was Kang-jun's power, so this would benefit him.

But there was something else.

[The amount of taxes collected from the territories you own will increase.]

[The possibility of finding rare items from the mines will increase.]

[The likelihood of finding hidden places in the territories you own or occupy will increase.]

[The amount of black magic energy consumed when summoning troops in battle will be reduced.]

[In addition, you will be given a reward in reality.]

He was even given a reward in reality.

'I really hit the jackpot.'

Kang-jun realized why Keirun had laughed so loudly the day the red moon rose.

'You still don't know? It is great luck for Lord that the red moon has appeared.'

'Sovereigns like Lord who aren't afraid to fight monsters can raise their levels tremendously in this event.'

'Your achievements will pile up and you can get big rewards."

Even if he was a sovereign lacking foundation in the beginning, he could become more powerful through the red moon battlefield.

It really was true.

'I will work harder to gain more achievements in the future.'

Kang-jun suddenly closed his eyes.

Something new about Heaven's Blood Sword Style had popped into his head.

A shadow holding a sword started dancing.

Sususu! Pa pa pa pa!

It seemed like Heaven's Blood Sword Style had levelled up. Perhaps that was what happened.

As the shadow swung its sword, Kang-jun's consciousness became one with the shadow and he learnt its actions.

After a while, the shadow disappeared and Kang-jun opened his eyes.

And a message floated in front of him.

[The strength of the sword that will stretch out in every direction...]

[The skill Heavenly Unyielding Slash has been learnt.]

[Heavenly Unyielding Slash]

-A sword skill that attacks a large number of enemies on the left, right and front.

-The higher your strength and agility, the more powerful the attack will be.

-Can be used with a sword.

-Consumes 50 black magic energy.

-Restrictions: Strength 35, Agility 40

Ohh!'

He received a skill. After Heavenly Cut, this was a second attack skill that could damage a wide range of enemies!

He had enough strength and agility to now use the skill.

Of course, it cost 50 black magic energy to use, so it was a little bit burdensome. However, it was useful for killing many enemies at once.

Unlike the proud Kang-jun, most of the other sovereigns stared at the evaluation scroll with an expression like they were chewing on faeces.

[Sovereign Hardis of the 439th Army!

During the invasion of the Second Demon King Colladikus, the commanders showed great concern for your incompetent, lazy and foolish actions on the red moon battlefield.

It is due to pathetic

sovereigns like you that the Second Demon King makes fun of this place.

Take this disciplinary punishment seriously and show a better performance in the future.]

Shake shake.

Hardis' hands trembled as he held the scroll.

'W-what is this?'

Until this morning, he had 90 achievement points. He didn't build up any additional achievements but he had 125 points due to the moonstones.

However, he suffered a complete failure in today's battle.

He tried to succeed in the mission but ended up dying eight times. He only had 10 achievement points left and might have disappeared if it hadn't been for Heksia.

This was due to his desire to win over Kang-jun.

If he had known there would be a periodic evaluation today, he wouldn't have done it. The evaluation was also demeaning.

[You are an incompetent, lazy and foolish sovereign.]

[The Second Demon King makes fun of sovereigns like you.]

[Your level has fallen by one.]

[Charisma has been permanently reduced by one.]

"Euh! Unbelievable!"

He didn't mind everything else. Being called incompetent didn't matter.

However, his level and charisma were reduced.

In particular, losing charisma was a heavy blow.

Level could be raised by gaining experience, but charisma couldn't.

Hardis was going crazy.

But that wasn't the end.

[You currently have 45 achievement points.]

[This will be adjusted upwards to 100 achievement points.]

[55 achievement points were borrowed in order to do this and you will have to pay them back.]

He lost charisma and one level, and now this?

Hardis looked at the next message with an uneasy expression.

[The abilities of the subordinates you have gained through charisma have fallen.]

[The amount of taxes collected from the territories you own will be reduced.]

[You will have a price to pay in reality.]

As if those weren't enough, he had to pay another price in reality.

"Aaaah!"

Hardis screamed.

Meanwhile, Zenith was in a similar situation.

[Sovereign Zenith of the 439th Army!

During the invasion of the Second Demon King Colladikus, the commanders showed great concern for your incompetent actions on the red moon battlefield.

Take care!

Take this disciplinary punishment seriously and show a better performance in the future.]

[You are an incompetent sovereign.]

[You need to make an effort.]

[Intelligence has been permanently reduced by one.]

"Ugh! This is ridiculous!"

His results were better than Hardis'. When today's achievement points and moonstones were combined, he had a total of 88 points.

Fortunately, his charisma and level didn't fall. Instead, he was punished with a drop in intelligence.

There was also a decline in territory taxes and the capabilities of his subordinates!

Furthermore, he had to pay something in reality.

For the sovereigns who only had 10 points even with the moonstones, the results were literally disastrous.

Their charisma and levels dropped by a maximum of three.

Naturally, there was a reduction in the capabilities of their households and territory taxes. Additionally, they had to pay a huge price in reality.

On the other hand, the expressions of the sovereigns who followed Kang-jun today were bright.

Avia had 140 achievement points.

The moonstones she held had a value close to 100 points. It was because she diligently searched for evil spirits in reality.

The Black Dragon Law Firm had advised her not to exchange her moonstones. However, she had thought her achievements weren't that high and exchanged them.

[Sovereign Avia of the 439th Army!

During the invasion of the Second Demon King Colladikus, you have shown great achievements on the red moon battlefield.

You are a competent sovereign.

I will keep watching your work from now on.]

[You are an outstanding sovereign.]

[You are competent.]

[Your level has increased by one.]

"Yay!"

Avia cried out with delight at her level increase. Additionally, the abilities of her household members and her tax revenue were increased.

Caper, Rosina, Haniel and Brio were also rewarded, instead of punished. However, it wasn't enough to raise their level. They only received a slight prize of having their territory taxes increased.

But that alone created a large gap with the other sovereigns.

All the sovereigns in the army, except for Kang-jun and his allies, were punished.

In other words, they just needed to maintain the status quo to be ahead of the others.

'It was good that I allied with Lucan.'

'This is a beneficial alliance.'

Avia and the others all had smiles on their faces.

Then Commander Heksia opened her mouth.

"Everybody has read their evaluations. Congratulations to those who were rewarded. As for those who received punishment, please do better next time."

Heksia stared at the sovereigns.

"Especially those who were punished today, don't be disappointed. There will be many opportunities in the future. But if you don't risk your lives, it won't be easy to move forward. Build up your foundation in reality."

Her gaze moved toward Kang-jun.

"Lucan, don't forget that you can fall down at any time."

"Of course."

Kang-jun nodded. Heksia swept a glance over the sovereigns again.

"After today, you should have realized how important your achievements and moonstones are."

Heksia smiled as she took out one moonstone.

"As time pa.s.ses, the probability of moonstones being dropped will decrease. Monsters will also get stronger, so it will become harder to kill them to obtain the moonstones."

Heksia continued.

"Instead, it is possible to trade the moonstones. Whether it is among the sovereigns or with anyone else, you can secure moonstones through transactions. I only care about the results, not the process."

The eyes of the sovereigns' shone.

It was possible to make deals?

Of course, they had heard these facts from the Black Dragon Law Firm.

Until then, they hadn't known the moonstones had such an important value.

If they had known, they would have tried to trade when the sovereigns had gathered.

"Now, it is time to return to reality. I'll pray you have more power the next time I see you."

Heksia's voice echoed as the space around them started to distort.

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