Category: Logging Out Is Too Hard

“Hmm…”

Woojin paused in front of the boss room, contemplating.

[ Dungeon Entry Time – 3 minutes 32 seconds ]

Surprisingly, he had defeated fewer than ten goblins on his way here.

[ Krrrk… Krrrk… ]

Only the goblin champs had dared to challenge him, briefly slowing him down.

The rest cowered in hiding, too afraid to attack.

“There is a function to hide names on the dungeon board… but would an absurd record like this be too suspicious?”

Even if players wouldn’t find out immediately, the administrators would definitely investigate.

“Well…”

But soon, he chuckled. He was worrying about something pointless.

“Whether I clear it in five minutes or ten, I’ll still attract attention.”

Why?

Because he was alone. Setting a first-place record through solo play? That was supposed to be impossible.

“If I’m going to be suspected anyway…”

Then it was better to make sure everyone remembered him.

Boom—!!

Woojin forcefully kicked aside the branches blocking the entrance.

[ Entering the Boss Room. ]

[ Human… ]

A musty stench filled the dilapidated room.

An old goblin sat on a crude wooden throne, crafted from wood and stone.

[ How dare… this place… ]

Schwick—.

“You talk too much.”

In an instant, Woojin closed the distance and drove his sword into the goblin lord’s shoulder.

[ Guaaaaahhh!! ]

The lord screamed in agony.

But the more he cried out, the deeper Woojin’s blade sank into his flesh.

“As expected, a boss is different.”

Woojin muttered as he withdrew his sword, looking down at the lord.

“The other ones died in a single hit, so I didn’t get to properly test it.”

[ Grr… Grrk…!! You… you bastard!!! ]

Dragon’s Sky – First Form: Severe.

Zzzzt…!! Zzzzzt…!!

A sharp blue spark crackled along Woojin’s blade.

The moment he applied a bit more strength,

Schwick—.

The goblin lord’s body was sliced cleanly, like cutting through tofu.

[ …Grrk? ]

The lord stared at Woojin blankly, as if he couldn’t comprehend his own death.

[ Goblin Lord has been slain. ]

As if delivering a death sentence, the system announced the end of its life.

[ Congratulations. ]
[ Your level has increased. ]
▶ 10 → 12

As the goblin lord crumbled into ashes, a wooden chest appeared where he once stood.

The reward chest.

‘Since this is a beginner dungeon, it probably won’t have anything amazing…’

Just as he reached for the chest, a system notification rang in his ears.

[ Dungeon Entry Time – 5 minutes 12 seconds ]
[ Dungeon Board record has been updated. ]
[ Would you like to register your name? ]

Woojin shook his head.

The administrators would find out eventually, but the players were a different matter.

‘Right now, my stats are barely at the level of a 30s-level player. If my name gets out, the top ten clans might interfere.’

For a moment, he considered joining one of those top ten clans.

But he immediately dismissed the thought.

‘All my skills and runes come from another world. My stats are at a level impossible through normal gameplay.’

Seeking their protection would only raise further suspicion.

[ Your name will be recorded as ??? on the Dungeon Board. ]
[ Dungeon Board record has been updated. ]

[ 1st Place ??? (1 player) – 5 minutes 12 seconds ]
[ 2nd Place Kerga’s Party (4 players) – 15 minutes 37 seconds ]
[ 3rd Place Tramel’s Party (4 players) – 16 minutes 21 seconds ]

“Nice.”

Looking at the dungeon board, Woojin smirked.

[ Congratulations. ]
[ You have reached 1st place on the Dungeon Board. ]
[ Title – Swift Hunter acquired. ]

[ Dungeon Board update time: within 10 minutes. ]
[ Everyone will be amazed by your extraordinary hunt. ]
[ The title’s effect has changed. ]

[ Swift Hunter → Agile Hunter ]

[ Number of participants: 1 confirmed. ]

[ This is a hunt that has reached the realm of the divine. ]
[ This unprecedented record will spread across the continent. ]
[ The title’s effect has changed. ]

[ Agile Hunter → Rapid Hunter ]

“Oh…?”

As the title applied, a green light enveloped Woojin before dissipating.

[ Rapid Hunter ]

▶ Rank: Heroic
▶ Description: A title granted to those who achieve 1st place in a field dungeon – Goblin Nest Time Attack through solo play.
▶ All stats +5
▶ Trait: Agility – Movement speed +10%
▶ Trait: Stealth – Monsters take longer to detect your presence.

▶ Skill: Acceleration – Doubles all skill speeds for 1 second.

▶ The title’s effects increase every time you set a new record in a time-attackable dungeon.
(However, if another player surpasses your record, the current effects will decrease, and the title may disappear.)

“Hah…”

Woojin was at a loss for words.

“A title that strengthens every time I update the dungeon board…”

It was already incredible, but what if he broke every remaining record?

“Status window.”

Name: Khan
Class: Warrior
Level: 12
Strength 30(+25) Agility 20(+35) Endurance 25(+40) Conviction 15 Dexterity 25(+20) Tactics 25
Total Points: 230
Remaining Points: 10

Traits: Adventurer, Solitude, Dragon Slayer, Indomitable, Agility, Stealth
Title: [ Rapid Hunter ]

‘Even conviction and tactics increased, which can’t be raised with runes.’

After checking his stats, Woojin nodded with a satisfied expression.

Years had passed since Evil Tale launched, yet there was still an attribute that remained largely unknown.

That was Faith.

Though it was clearly present in the status window, the effects and growth methods of Faith were still a topic of heated debate.

‘Some say that a high Faith stat is required to advance into second-tier professions like Saintess or Paladin in the Church faction…’

There were various theories—some claimed Faith could be increased by acquiring relics or artifacts in dungeons, while others suggested hunting undead monsters.

But since no one had ever reached level 99, the requirement for a second-tier advancement, there was no way to confirm if Faith was truly necessary for job changes.

‘But isn’t it strange? Why does everyone assume Faith must be a holy-type attribute?’

At some point, discussions in the in-game community had begun treating Faith as an essential trait for priests.

As a result, relics and artifacts occasionally dropped from dungeons were being sold at exorbitant prices.

‘They say you can only absorb holy power from relics and artifacts under specific conditions or through a quest to increase Faith…’

That was considered the usual theory.

The problem was that no one had actually proven they had successfully absorbed holy power from a relic or artifact.

‘Still, the rumor that Glory Union, one of the top ten clans and the one with the largest number of priests, continues to collect relics and artifacts is enough to sway people.’

The blind faith of the weak—believing that whatever the strong do must be the right path.

‘Glory Union has never commented on the Faith attribute.’

Even if they were gathering those items for an entirely different purpose, the majority of players couldn’t ignore their actions.

‘Whether by their own will or not, the movements of a top ten clan will inevitably influence public perception.’

Unless someone appeared who could overpower them, Evil Tale would remain under the control of the top ten clans.

Click.

Woojin opened the reward chest.

[Would you like to check the reward chest?]

All he had done was clear a dungeon inhabited by goblins—monsters considered the weakest.
But this was only the beginning of an overwhelming presence announcing itself.

---

▶ Goblin Hide Infused with Mana × 10
▶ Crude Potion × 1
▶ Contaminated Mana Potion × 1
▶ 30 Silver
▶ Expanded Mana Stone of the Goblin Lord

Opening a reward chest was always an enjoyable moment, but as expected of a low-level dungeon, the rewards were nothing special.

Except for one thing that caught Woojin’s attention.

‘A Goblin Lord’s Mana Stone?’

In Evil Tale, mana stones were valuable items.

And if the mana stone had a unique name attached to it, that increased its worth even further.

‘Still… It’s just a Goblin Lord. How much could it be worth?’

Even in beginner zones, there were mana-type monsters like Nagas and Nymphs, far superior to goblins in stats.
What piqued his curiosity was the modifier in front of Mana Stone.

‘Was there ever something like this?’

Name: Expanded Mana Stone of the Goblin Lord
Grade: Rare
Description: A mutated mana stone that occasionally forms when a mana-type monster is killed just before casting a spell.
▶ Contains more than twice the mana of a regular Goblin Lord’s mana stone.
▶ Handle with care.
▶ Expanded mana can cause a powerful explosion with minimal physical impact.

It was something he had never seen before.

▶ When used, the Expanded effect increases mana by 1.5 times.

“……”

Reading the description, Woojin unconsciously rubbed his eyes.

‘…1.5 times?’

Mana stones typically increased a fixed amount of mana when absorbed.

But that increase was always a static number, never a multiplier.

‘If mages find out about this, they’re going to lose their minds.’

An item that multiplied mana instead of simply increasing it by a set amount was practically priceless for magic users.

‘How has something like this remained undiscovered until now?’

After a brief thought, Woojin let out a smirk.

It was simple—because it was impossible to obtain.

Dungeons had level restrictions.

Higher-level players could enter, but they wouldn’t receive item drops if they exceeded the dungeon’s level cap.

‘A high-level player could easily one-shot a Goblin Lord, but because of the level cap, they wouldn’t get any loot.’

Even with the best equipment currently available, a level 15 player one-shotting a Goblin Lord was practically impossible.

‘This is probably something the developers added in advance for a future update.’

The real question was when that update would happen.

It might take months, or even years, before this item became obtainable under normal circumstances.

‘This won’t be the only one.’

“…I’m going to clear out every last dungeon.”

Woojin’s gaze gleamed as he looked at the dungeon board displaying his records.

“I’ll wipe them all out.”

“Thank you. Here are the potions you purchased and the equipment you requested.”

As the guild staff placed the potions and equipment on the counter, they disappeared instantly into Woojin’s inventory.

▶ Lowest-grade potion x 10
▶ Bread x 5
▶ Water-filled canteen x 1

The hum of voices filled the air.

People began to murmur as they noticed him.

“Isn’t that him?”

“Looks like he’s not hanging around the plaza anymore.”

“See? I told you. Once people stopped paying attention, he gave up.”

“…”

Woojin ignored their comments.

It didn’t matter how they judged him anymore.

He had something he needed to do.

“I’d like to take on a quest…”

“You haven’t received your emblem yet, correct? In that case, please select one of the requests posted on the bulletin board over there.”

Following the staff member’s guidance, Woojin turned to the right-hand wall, where numerous notices were pinned.

[C Rank – Hunt Gray Wolves]
[E Rank – Collect 30 Wild Herbs]
[D Rank – Gather 10 Goblin Teeth]

As he approached the bulletin board, windows listing the quest details began popping up.

‘To leave this beginner’s area, Moretti Village, for another village, you must complete at least ten quests here.’

Afterward, he would need to register officially at the adventurer’s guild to move on to a mid-tier city.

‘In the mid-tier city, I’ll need to reach level 50 to travel to the central continent where the Labyrinth Tower is.’

Only by crossing into the central continent would he qualify to tackle Evil Tale’s main storyline: conquering the tower.

‘From what I’ve seen in the community, just reaching the central continent can take a minimum of three months.’

It would be no easy journey.

‘Whatever the case may be…’

Even so, the rune he had acquired—something even those who completed such long journeys struggled to obtain—was a significant gain.

‘…I wonder if I can go back again?’

The thought crossed Woojin’s mind.

If low-tier monsters like gray wolves could drop runes, what about other monsters?

But he quickly shook his head.

‘Too dangerous.’

He still didn’t know how he had crossed into that other world or how he had returned.

‘If I’m not careful, I might never be able to come back.’

It was better to focus on finding a way within the reality he knew.

“Goblin, huh…”

Woojin selected one of the quests.

Among the monsters in the Shadow Forest, the strongest were the orcs.

Though they were level 10, with his current stats, Woojin could easily clear an orc stronghold on his own.

He had completed nine quests so far.

Just one more, and he could leave Moretti Village.

That was why he chose this quest.

[D Rank – Gather 10 Goblin Teeth]
[Quest accepted.]

There was something he wanted to confirm.

---

“Recruiting party members!”

“Looking for a tank for a nest raid!”

“DPS slot open!” ( DPS : Damage per second )

As Woojin left the village and entered the Shadow Forest, he saw people forming parties.

The reason for forming parties was simple:

To hunt monsters more quickly and efficiently.

‘But it’s unnecessary for me.’

Thanks to the “Solitude” trait he had gained from Raul’s essence, hunting alone was more advantageous for him.

‘The traits I got from the essence all seem to relate to Raul.’

This thought left Woojin feeling slightly bitter.

How long must Raul have wandered the continent alone to develop such traits?

‘Well, it works out for me, though.’

After the logout incident, Woojin’s face was widely recognized. He wanted to avoid unnecessary interactions as much as possible.

“Looking for a DPS under level 15 for a Goblin Nest Time Attack!”

Then, amidst the calls for party members, a voice caught Woojin’s attention.

‘…Time Attack?’

Woojin turned his head.

‘Right, there was something like that.’

Clearing a dungeon within a set time rewarded an achievement.

“Hmm.”

He approached the monument standing at the entrance to the Goblin Nest and placed his hand on it.

[Dungeon board activated.]

A window appeared above the monument.

[Current Record Rankings]

[1st Place – Kerga’s Party (4 members): 15 minutes 37 seconds]

[2nd Place – Tramell’s Party (4 members): 16 minutes 21 seconds]

[3rd Place – Lycan’s Party (4 members): 19 minutes 10 seconds]

‘As expected… quite the elite.’

Woojin let out a low murmur as he read the rankings.

The first-place holder, Kerga, was the leader of The Phoenix Order, widely considered the best raid team.

Since players above level 15 didn’t qualify for the rankings, it was a record set during Kerga’s early days and remained unbroken to this day.

‘Back then, the trading market wasn’t even properly established.’

Woojin glanced at the player recruiting for a Time Attack party.

His gray-toned armor gleamed faintly under the sunlight.

‘Armor crafted from Ashmane’s hide, a rare monster that spawns occasionally in the Shadow Forest.’

And it wasn’t just the armor.

The iron sword he carried wasn’t standard guild fare but a high-grade piece forged by blacksmiths from the central continent.

Woojin’s eyes landed on the emblem pinned to the man’s shoulder.

A crest of a sword and hawk.

It was the mark of Jaina Clan, one of the top ten clans in Evil Tale.

‘Figures. Only a major guild would bother with a Time Attack.’

“20-minute clear, going for the basic achievement only! Join us!!”

Despite having top-tier gear, the man didn’t seem interested in competing for the leaderboard.
And with good reason.

‘Kerga’s record was set four years ago, but the second-place record by Tramell was only six months ago.’

Tramell Clan’s leader, Muran, had challenged Kerga’s record to prove himself, but his attempt only highlighted Kerga’s greatness.

‘Even elite teams from major clans can’t break it.’

Woojin exhaled, acknowledging the sheer difficulty of the task.

“Hmm.”

Woojin slightly furrowed his brow.

It wasn’t just the Goblin Nest—top ten clans often created new accounts to re-clear dungeons in beginner areas like this.

‘They claimed it was to challenge Kerge’s record.’

But their true motives were obvious.

[Titles are awarded to the top three teams on the dungeon leaderboard, with effects scaling based on the number of party members.]

Woojin glanced at the note written at the bottom of the dungeon board displaying the rankings.

‘What they’re after is that title.’

In Evil Tale, titles earned from achieving specific accomplishments provided a variety of powerful effects.

‘Titles are great, sure, but that doesn’t mean they’re resetting accounts just for that.’

As Woojin mulled it over, a group nearby grumbled about the top clans, their distaste evident.

“Don’t you think those top-tier clan guys are scummy?”

“They’re filthy. Seriously. If anyone else even comes close to ranking, they reset and spam their way back up just to block others from getting titles.”

“Typical rich-getting-richer behaviour.”

“Hey, keep it down.”

“Ahem… fine.”

Even though the pettiness of blocking others from obtaining what they couldn’t was loathsome, no one openly antagonized the top clans. Listening to their chatter, Woojin couldn’t help but taste the bitterness in his mouth.

‘Thinking about it, Kerga really is something else.’

Despite countless challenges from top-tier clans, no one had managed to break the record Kerga set in the Goblin Nest.

“The title’s effects scale with the number of party members…”

The most critical factor in a time attack was clearing the dungeon as quickly as possible. Naturally, the more members in a party, the faster monsters could be hunted. A full party was a basic requirement for these attempts. Trying to be clever by using fewer members for better rewards risked not making it onto the leaderboard at all.

“No matter what underhanded tactics the top clans try, they still can’t break Kerga’s record. But there’s one thing even Kerga didn’t achieve.”

Woojin suddenly found himself curious.

‘What if someone broke Kerga’s record with fewer people than his party had?’

A sly grin crept onto his face.

Why hesitate? If you’re curious, just try it.

[You have entered the Goblin Nest.]

---

[Kiiieeeek―――!!!]

As soon as he entered, goblins rushed at Woojin. There were five of them in total.

‘Four regular goblins and one Goblin Swordsman.’

He quickly assessed their composition. Thankfully, there were no ranged attackers. From his time in the otherworld, Woojin understood well how much easier battles became when there was one less element to worry about.

Srrng―.

He drew his sword.

Without hesitation, he slashed at a goblin swinging a crude club.

Puhk―!!!

The goblin’s head exploded, its body turning to ash before it even hit the ground.

“…?!!”

It was over in a single strike. Both Woojin and the goblins were equally stunned.

[Krr… Krrk.]

Among the hesitant goblins, the Goblin Swordsman stepped forward, gripping a shabby blade. The short dagger trembled pitifully at its tip.

[The goblins begin to feel fear.]

Could anyone else in this Level 15 dungeon one-shot a goblin?

Not even the legendary Kerga could accomplish such a feat.

But Woojin had just done the impossible.

[The goblins lose their will to fight in the face of overwhelming power.]

Clatter―.

The Goblin Swordsman dropped its weapon, frozen in place.

[The goblins have fallen into panic.]

[Their movements are severely restricted.]

“…Hmm?”

It was a feat no one had ever achieved before. Naturally, no one knew the results that would follow.

Swish―.

Woojin decapitated the paralyzed Goblin Swordsman in a single stroke.

[Kiiieeeek―――!!]

The remaining goblins screamed in terror and scattered, turning to ash as they fled.

[Kek… Kekek…!!]

The goblins that met his gaze retreated in horror, letting out strange cries as they ran away.

“A monster that should hinder me is now running for its life…”

Woojin chuckled dryly as he watched them scatter.

The once-crowded cavern was now eerily silent. Without a second glance, Woojin continued walking deeper into the dungeon.

[Dungeon entry time: 41 seconds.]

A historic record.

“That person. Is he still the same these days?”

“Who are you referring to?”

“You know, the crazy guy who shouted he couldn’t log out in Moretti Village.”

GM Dane.

The team leader of the 2nd Management Team, put down his coffee cup and scanned the dozens of monitors before asking.

“Ah… I was just about to report on that. That guy, you see, his log records show he logged out recently.”

“What? Seriously?”

“Yes, take a look here. Not long after meeting with you, there’s a log-out record.”

At his subordinate’s response, Ko Jun-cheol quickly turned his gaze to the monitor.

“That bastard… causing all that fuss and then giving up when there was nothing to gain, huh?”

“Seems like it. With proof that he logged out, it’s undeniable now. Honestly, this is a case where we could even claim damages, but…”

The subordinate’s voice grew slightly agitated.

“Considering some of our user data was lost, it’s probably best to let it slide quietly.”

“Probably.”

Ko Jun-cheol clicked his tongue and let out a low sigh.

“What’s wrong?”

“Remember how I reported this guy to Director Han last time?”

“Yes. Since it involved data issues, it had to be flagged to the development team too.”

“The development team contacted me yesterday. Director Han said he’s going to assign someone to monitor this guy exclusively.”

“Exclusively? What, like 24/7 surveillance? But we have the logout record, so there shouldn’t be any more issues.”

“Who knows? It’s hard to say.”

“Is the person coming from our team? Whoever it is, they’re guaranteed overtime.”

“No idea. Director Han’s arranging the reassignment, so it might be internal or external. Just keep it to yourself for now—don’t spread any rumors.”

“Understood.”

Ko Jun-cheol patted his subordinate’s shoulder lightly before heading to his office.

“Director Han issued a direct order, huh…”

He took a sip of his coffee, pondering.

“He’s not someone who acts without reason… Could there really be a problem with the game?”

The autonomous AI, [Ethan].

The concept of a self-evolving AI sounded like infinite potential but was just as much a double-edged sword due to its inherent risks.

“Rumor had it that it was originally developed for space exploration or something like that…”

Project A-a.

An exploration into the unknown realm of space, theorizing the existence of multiple dimensions and attempting to prove it. It had been a notable topic but disappeared abruptly with the project’s sudden termination.

Only a very select few knew that [Ethan] had been developed for this project.

“Well, whether it’s true or not isn’t my concern.”

For Ko Jun-cheol, the creation of [Ethan] mattered far less than ensuring [Evil Tale] ran smoothly.

“As long as that lunatic stays quiet, there won’t be any issues.”

The man had claimed an uninhabited address was his home, insisted on using a fake social security number, and even demanded to meet non-existent family members.

“And made absurd requests to reunite with imaginary relatives…”

The memory of Woojin made Ko Jun-cheol’s head throb.

“Tch. At least we’ve got proof he logged out now. There shouldn’t be any more problems.”

With a shiver of exasperation, he opened the office door.

---

“How could this be…?”

Woojin stared blankly at Raul’s sword, lying on the ground.

“If this isn’t a dream, then it makes even less sense.”

If the otherworld he visited was real, then this was akin to bringing something from reality into a game.

“Should I call a GM?”

He almost pressed the administrator call button but then shook his head.

“No. Nothing good will come of that. They’ll just find an excuse to confiscate the item.”

He was already on thin ice with them, and he no longer intended to rely on them.

“How did I log out?”

How had he returned? The mysteries were endless.

“I need to figure it out myself.”

Until now, he’d believed he was just trapped in a game due to a programming issue. But now, the situation had reached a turning point.

“A world identical to the game.”

It was a secret even the administrators didn’t know.

Oddly, he felt calm. Perhaps because he’d faced death, he didn’t break down and cry as he once had.

“I’ve shed enough tears, begged enough already.”

If the otherworld truly existed, then this was no mere game issue anymore.

“This isn’t something the police or administrators can solve.”

Only he could handle it.

Smack—!

He slapped his own cheeks hard enough to jolt himself awake.

“No matter what… I’ll return.”

Gripping Raul’s sword tightly, he steeled himself.

What should he do now?

The answer might be simpler than expected. In the game, every player had one goal. It would be the same in the otherworld.

“Get stronger.”

He still didn’t know how to return to reality. But if the future he’d seen in the otherworld unfolded in the game, there was nothing a Level 10 warrior who couldn’t log out could do.

[Would you like to absorb Raul’s essence?]

The option was right before him.

“The notification is working properly.”

This meant the items obtained in the otherworld were functioning in the game.

“At least they can’t claim it’s illegal or some hack.”

Carefully, Woojin pressed the confirm button.

[You have absorbed Raul’s essence.]

A gust of wind blasted across his face.

▶ You have gained great insight.
▶ This is an advanced essence.
▶ Your current grade cannot fully absorb it.
▶ Complete quests to increase your grade. – Minimum requirement: Complete 3 B-grade quests (0/3).

▶ Certain traits are restricted.

Memories surged into his mind.

▶ You have awakened the trait [Adventurer].
▶ You have awakened the trait [Solitude].
▶ You have awakened the trait [Dragon Slayer].
▶ You have awakened the trait [Indomitable].

The influx of memories was accompanied by a flood of notifications.

“Raul…”

The memories didn’t feel like mere data; they seemed to seep into him.

Trait: Adventurer
▶ Gain 15% bonus experience for a day when hunting in new areas.
▶ After a day, gain 5% bonus experience.
▶ Deal 10% extra damage in first encounters with monsters.
▶ Deal 5% extra damage against previously encountered monsters.

Trait: Solitude
▶ Gain a 5% increase to all stats in solo play.
▶ Gain 10% bonus experience in solo play.

Trait: Dragon Slayer
▶ Gain 5% bonus experience when hunting dragon-type monsters.
▶ Increase attack power by 10% against dragon-type monsters.

Trait: Indomitable
▶ When HP drops below 5%, all stats dramatically increase.

“…This is insane.”

In [Evil Tale], traits were rarer than skills.

“While they could be obtained through specific conditions or quests, most known traits were related to cooking or crafting.”

But what he had gained,

They were all related to hunting

And every single one was so extraordinary that it left him speechless.

“Ha… haha.”

Without realizing it, Woojin let out a hollow laugh.

‘…Could it be?’

A sudden thought flashed through his mind.

‘The equipment I brought back from the otherworld applied in the game. Then…’

“Status window.”

A translucent hologram appeared.

---

Name: Khan
Class: Warrior
Level: 10

Strength: 25(+25)
Agility: 15(+35)
Endurance: 20(+40)
Conviction: 10
Dexterity: 20(+20)
Strategy: 20

Total Points: 230
Remaining Points: 0

Traits: Adventurer, Solitude, Dragon Slayer, Indomitable

---

Upon seeing his status window, Woojin clenched his fists tightly without realizing it.

In Evil Tale, all starting characters had fixed stats of

‘A character receives an additional 5 points upon creation, and gains 5 points per level.’

A Level 10 player’s total points should be 110. But for him?

His total was a whopping 230.

Twice the amount of other players at the same level.

In terms of points, he was on par with players in their 30s.

The reason was clear.

The increase in total points came from the numbers in the brackets next to each stat.

‘The runs I consumed in the otherworld.

Those were applied in the game as well.

It’s natural for stat growth to become more difficult as levels rise.

‘The gap will only grow larger over time, and that gap will translate to even greater strength.’

“It wasn’t for nothing.”

Woojin smiled bitterly as he looked at his stats.

The nights spent hunting gray wolves, sleepless and desperate, had led to this result.

‘Raul…’

He thought of Raul’s final moments.

‘Could this really be the end?’

Schwing—

He silently drew the sword from its sheath.

‘I don’t know if I deserve to inherit your swordsmanship…’

What must Raul have felt when he handed over his beloved sword in the face of death?

He couldn’t have wanted to enter his life’s ultimate technique to a mere Level 10 warrior.

“The least I can do for you…”

Woojin murmured softly, as if speaking directly to Raul.

“…is to become someone worthy of your swordsmanship.”

▶ Inherited Skill: Yongcheon (Dragon Sky) unlocked.

▶ Raul’s incomplete ultimate technique, realized after slaying three dragons.

Whoosh―――!

“Huff…! Huff…!!”

Woojin began running with all his might, tearing through the dense bushes like a madman.

“…What the hell is that?!”

His heart felt like it was about to burst. But he knew—if he stopped now, it wouldn’t be a matter of dying later. He’d die right there on the spot.

“Damn it…!!!”

It wasn’t clear whether he was cursing the monster chasing after him or the fact that his decision to play a game had brought him to the brink of death. Either way, curses poured ceaselessly from his mouth.

“Leave me behind.”

A strained voice came from Raul, whom Woojin was supporting.

“If you’ve got the strength to say that, put it into walking just a bit harder,” Woojin gritted his teeth, pulling Raul closer.

‘Was he always this light?’

Maybe it was because something that should be there was missing.

Crunch—.

Woojin glanced at Raul’s right arm.

The hand that should have been gripping a sword was gone.

“Grr…!!”

Though the potion he used managed to stop the bleeding, it couldn’t reattach the severed arm. With every step Raul took, blood gushed from his side, staining his clothes.

It had happened in an instant.

A monster emerged from the darkness and swung its sword awkwardly, cutting off Raul’s hand in one strike. The blade then plunged into his side. Though its technique was clumsy, the speed of the attack was so quick that Raul, already old and worn, couldn’t react.

‘At this rate, we’re both dead.’

Woojin knew they wouldn’t get much farther with him supporting Raul.

The monster, as if mocking them, was lumbering along, closing the distance step by step.

“What do we do?”

“…What?”

“What do we do to kill that thing?”

Woojin’s desperate voice carried his ragged breaths.

“Didn’t I tell you earlier? That thing’s a monster! It’s not something we can kill!”

“So what? You’re saying we just lie down and die?”

Woojin asked, his voice sharp.

“You said we had to survive! You said we needed to reach the Lion King’s Bastion! I’m saying the same—I don’t want to die here!!”

He shouted, his desperation spilling out.

“Do we stab its heart to kill it? Or break its limbs?”

His cry jolted Raul back to reality.

Raul turned to look at him.

At his eyes.

At his unwavering determination to fight.

Without a word, Raul nodded as if he’d finally understood what needed to be done.

“Wait, what are you doing?!”

Raul removed the sword from his waist and pressed it into Woojin’s chest.

“Someone has to survive.”

“Raul!!!”

With a fierce shove, Raul pushed Woojin away.

The path flanked by steep slopes caused Woojin to lose his balance and tumble down the incline.

“…Ack!!!”

He rolled for several meters before crashing into a tree, finally coming to a stop.

“Raul!!!!”

He screamed the name over and over, but no answer came.

“Damn it…!! Damn it all…!!!”

Just hours earlier, he had clung to a shred of hope in this nightmarish world. And now…

“Damn it!!!”

Who could he blame?

The gods? Himself? The game? Or that monster?

Gritting his teeth, Woojin clutched Raul’s sword tightly.

“I have to get back up there, no matter what…”

And then it happened.

Click—.

In the eerie silence, a foreign noise echoed.

Woojin’s trembling eyes slowly lifted.

“…!!!”

On the ridge above, a pair of crimson eyes glowed ominously.

Thud— Thud— Thud—!!

Rumble—!!!

Woojin couldn’t believe his eyes.

The monster was sliding down the slope, charging straight at him.

“This is bullshit!!!!”

With a thunderous roar, his attack caused the monster’s body to stagger.

Thud—!!!

The monster’s legs slid back several steps.

‘W-what?!’

Quickly pulling back to create distance, Woojin looked at the creature with a bewildered expression.

‘That just now….’

The form had been clumsy, but the power behind the downward slash was entirely different from before.

It was the warrior skill, Smite.

‘It… it worked.’

For the first time, Woojin stared at his hands in disbelief.

“Huup…”

There was no time to be amazed.

He looked at the monster advancing toward him.

Clink— Clink—.

Every time it took a step closer, Woojin retreated one step back.

The tension was noticeable.

Woojin focused all his attention on the monster’s worn sword.

Whoosh—!!!

The monster’s blade moved, and—

Clatter—!!!

Seizing the moment, Woojin lunged into the monster’s reach with all his might.

‘If I can use warrior skills…!’

Boom—!!!

He didn’t need to figure out how.

His body and mind instinctively moved as if they had known all along.

The warrior’s second skill: Dash.

Moving at an explosive speed, Woojin circled to the side of the monster and swung his sword with all his strength.

“Hyaahhh!”

Boom—!!!

Another swing landed, causing the monster to sway. But Woojin didn’t stop—he kept swinging.

“Huff… huff…”

How many times had he swung?

He was out of breath, his head pounding from exhaustion.

“Damn it…”

He had poured everything into the attack, but the monster didn’t even have a scratch.

Still, it stood steadfast, blocking the exit.

Woojin’s expression hardened as he stared at the creature.

Of course, it had killed Raul.

There was no way he could win.

But—

‘I can’t die like this.’

If he could just create an opening to escape…

Then, it happened.

BOOM—!!!!

The monster, which had been motionless until now, finally moved.

“…?!”

Slash…

The creature’s blade grazed Woojin’s cheek.

Blood trickled down from the wound.

Woojin stared at the monster in a daze.

‘W-what was that?’

He hadn’t even blocked or reacted to the attack.

This was different from before.

‘…Was it toying with me this whole time?’

Damn it.

Biting his lip in frustration, Woojin felt nothing but anger welling up.

But there was nothing he could do.

Only fear pressed down on him.

His last desperate attack had been futile, and now all he could do was retreat, step by step, as the monster advanced.

Thud—.

When his back finally hit the wall,

[Grrk, grrk.]

The creature’s shoulders shook as though it were laughing, mocking him now that he had nowhere left to run.

‘…Is this how I die?’

No matter how hard he tried to think, he couldn’t find a way to escape.

Crunch—!!

Screw that.

If there’s no way out, then I’ll fight until I find one.

“Arghhhh!!!!”

His fear turned to rage, driving him forward.

At that moment—

Woooom…

Surprisingly, the magic circle beneath his feet began to glow.

“…?!”

Startled, he looked down.

Without realizing it, his retreat had brought him to the center of a magic circle etched into the floor.

“What… what is this?!”

As the magic circle suddenly activated, his unease deepened.

Swoooosh―――!!!

A blinding white light and a sharp gust of wind enveloped him in an instant.

‘That’s….’

As the swirling dust cleared, Woojin noticed something lying inside the circle on the wall.

A black robe.

And within it, skeletal remains.

It was the corpse of a dark mage.

“Ugh… ugh.”

It felt like he was submerged in water—he couldn’t breathe.

His consciousness blurred.

Bzzt—.

A sound like a broken radio’s static stabbed into his mind.

It felt like sinking into a deep abyss, his body weightless and unresponsive, drifting in a daze.

‘…What is this?’

It was an indescribable sensation, like simultaneously falling endlessly and rising infinitely.

His vision wavered.

Something soft and gelatinous broke through the oppressive darkness around him.

Tremble—.

A small, trembling light appeared.

“…Ugh?!”

Suddenly, the light forced its way into his mouth.

Gulp—.

In an instant, it slid down his throat and attached into his body.

---

“…Cough!!! Cough!!!”

Woojin opened his eyes, clutching at his neck, gagging.

“Ugh, ughhh!”

But only thick saliva came out.

“What’s wrong with that guy?”

“Who knows? Guess he’s really lost it now.”

“Tsk tsk…”

Voices surrounded him.

He quickly lifted his head.

The once-ruined village was now lined with intact buildings, and the crimson sky was clear.

“This is…”

Woojin stared blankly at the scene before him.

[You have logged in.]

The notification lingering in his vision slowly disappeared.

He was inside the game.

“Damn it…”

Exhausted, he collapsed against the fountain in the plaza and closed his eyes.

“Ha… haha.”

The logout menu was still nowhere to be found.

Nothing had changed.

And yet it was strange.

He had wanted to escape this game world so desperately…

But ironically, realizing he was in the game brought him a sense of peace.

“…Was it all just a dream?”

He opened his eyes slowly.

Maybe he had been exhausted.

That might explain it.

After all, he had been standing in this spot, unmoving, for days.

Shiver—.

Suddenly, his body trembled.

Clang—.

The sword he held slipped from his hands and fell to the ground.

---

Name: Raul’s Dragon Slayer Sword
Grade: D
Description: The treasured sword of Raoul, a dragon hunter, found in the Dark Forest. Though it lacks special abilities, it is said to be unbreakable.

▶ Attack Power +50
▶ Indestructible
▶ Contains Raoul’s essence.

---

Gulp—.

Woojin swallowed dryly without realizing it.

“…No way.”

It was all real.

[Would you like to absorb Raul’s essence?]

At that moment, a notification appeared before his eyes.

“That’s impossible.”

Contrary to his hopes, Raul’s response was curt and unwavering.

“Why is that?”

Woojin asked, his expression betraying confusion.

“My swordsmanship isn’t something just anyone can learn. It’s a legacy skill. Still interested?”

‘Legacy skill? What’s that?’

“…Of course.”

Woojin answered cautiously.

A chill ran down his spine. Raul exuded a murderous intent so oppressive that Woojin’s body trembled involuntarily.

“You really don’t know, do you?”

The lethal aura receded as Raul nodded to himself.

“I couldn’t believe your talk of coming from another world, but seeing you now, it’s clear you’re not from here.”

“…What?”

“A legacy skill is a unique-grade technique that only one person can master at a time,” Raul explained.

With a smooth motion, he drew his sword.

“I should’ve guessed from your lack of reaction when I mentioned being a first-grade adventurer.”

Despite the countless wolves the blade had cleaved, its edge remained pristine.

“A first-grade adventurer?”

Raul spoke in a low tone.

“It’s a title granted only to those who’ve successfully hunted a dragon.”

“A dragon?”

Woojin couldn’t hide his shock.

A dragon slayer.

In Evil Tale, no player had reached their first job advancement yet, so the title existed only as speculation on official forums.

It was tied to a hidden third-tier class: Dragon Hunter, unlocked only after completing a specific quest.

To think such a figure stood before him now—Woojin could hardly believe it.

“I didn’t realize you were such a remarkable person.”

“Ha, not remarkable. It’s just faded glory from the past. These days, I fear wolves more than dragons.”

“…What?”

“Ambition was my downfall.”

Raul loosened the straps of his armor, revealing his collarbone and torso, scarred with deep, festering wounds.

“…!!”

“I foolishly reached for something I shouldn’t have.”

“What was it?”

“The heart of a dragon.”

Raul laughed bitterly.

“The dragon’s power is slowly devouring me. One day, it’ll consume me entirely.”

The Dragon Heart.

Renowned as the elixir containing the strongest power in existence, yet no one had discovered how to refine it.

“Wasn’t that reckless? With your strength, why would you…”

“Because it still wasn’t enough.”

“…I see.”

“You and I aren’t so different.”

Woojin fell silent at Raul’s words.

The difference lay only in the scale of their ambitions.

Click—.

Raul held out his sword to Woojin.

“Grab it.”

With trembling hands, Woojin cautiously grasped the hilt.

K-KRAKKA-KA-BOOM―――!!

The instant he touched it, his mind erupted as though struck by lightning.

Memories of countless battles flashed through his consciousness, imprinting themselves as if they were his own.

“Gah?!!”

He staggered back, gasping in shock.

“This… What is this?”

Woojin stared at Raul with wide eyes.

“Those are thirty years’ worth of my memories, spent hunting dragons. That’s what a legacy skill is. It’s not just about learning techniques—you inherit the experience and life of its master.”

Raul smirked faintly, as though expecting his reaction.

“Dragon Sky. My life’s work, embodied in my swordsmanship.”

A soft hum resonated from Raul’s blade as it emitted a faint glow.

“Ha… The only time someone inherits such memories is when the master dies.”

Raul stood up, brushing off the dirt from his clothes.

“Sorry, but I can’t teach you my sword yet. I’m not ready to die.”

At the cave’s entrance, the morning light spilled in, framing his solitary figure.

Had it not been for the kindness of this stranger, Woojin might have perished, forgotten in this different world.

‘Yeah, desiring even his life would be sheer arrogance.’

“Is there no cure?”

Raul shook his head.

“Perhaps. They say there’s a high priestess named Loren on the northern isle of the Lion King. If anyone can, it’s her.”

Though the dragon’s power was killing him, his eyes still burned with determination.

“Do you have a destination?”

Woojin shook his head.

In Evil Tale, the goal was to conquer the Labyrinth Tower, but in this world, there were no remaining floors to clear. The only floor stood high in the sky, untouchable.

“Then why not come with me? You’ve got sharp eyes and decent aptitude. While I can’t teach you Dragon Sky, I can train your fundamentals on our way to the Lion King’s fortress.”

It was a tempting offer.

The Dark Forest was vast, teeming with goblins, orcs, and creatures far deadlier than wolves.

Could he survive alone?

Recalling the wounds left by the wolves, Woojin nodded.

Next time, those fangs might pierce his throat.

“Thank you.”

The best way for the weak to survive was to stay close to the strong.

---

The forest path seemed endless.

By the time the sun set, the oppressive darkness returned, suffocating them.

[Keeeng!!!]

Woojin’s sword sliced clean through the gnoll’s neck.

“Lower your stance. Your sword tip still wavers. If you’re aiming for my swordsmanship, master the basics first.”

Hearing Raul’s words from behind, Woojin gritted his teeth and turned to the remaining gnolls, cutting them down in quick succession.

“Huff… Huff…”

Three gnoll corpses fell at his feet in an instant.

‘This is just a beginner’s area…’

Yet it was grueling.

The towering trees and occasional cries of beasts mixed the air with an oppressive weight.

“No runes.”

Woojin checked the monster corpses and stood up, his expression calm.

“It seems my luck ran out after the first day. I haven’t found any since.”

Raul chuckled.

“You’re right. That night, the moon was bright. Such nights bring more runes.”

‘A time-based effect?’

In Evil Tale, there was a similar mechanic—daytime reduced experience but weakened monsters, while nighttime increased both.

“Let’s rest here for tonight.”

At Raul’s suggestion, Woojin quietly gathered branches to start a fire.

“You’re finally starting to hold the sword properly.”

Raul commented, roasting gnoll meat over the flames.

“But I still can’t use any skills.”

“Don’t rush. Once your fundamentals are solid, they’ll come naturally.”

On the third day of traversing the Shadow Forest, the two of them had hunted a significant number of monsters.

Most of the hunting fell to Woojin.

Since that day, Raul had been teaching him everything from how to grip a sword to footwork, posture, and all the basics necessary for survival.

“Your world is currently attempting the tenth floor, you said?”

“Yes. Unlike before, this time it’s a large-scale assault.”

Up to the ninth floor, instance dungeons could be cleared by small parties, but the tenth floor was different.

It required a raid format with at least ten participants. Woojin remembered reading on the community forums that the renowned [Phoenix Corps] of Kergah, known as the strongest guild, was leading the charge.

“They may have already cleared it by now,” Woojin said.

“This world has little interest in clearing the Tower. The faster it’s cleared, the grimmer things become,” Raul replied.

At Raul’s words, Woojin quietly gazed at the distant floating castle of the Tower’s final 100th floor.

‘The game’s conclusion couldn’t turn out like this… could it?’

The thought sent shivers down his spine.

‘How can something like this even be possible?’

A world identical to the game existing in reality—no matter how much he thought about it, it defied belief.

‘But unless I’ve gone insane…’

One question lingered in his mind.

How could Evil Tale create a world that was an exact replica of this one?

‘Evil Tale wasn’t created by humans.’

The tagline used in the game’s early marketing campaigns resurfaced in his memory:

“The first-ever virtual reality game created by autonomous AI, [Ethan].”

‘A game created by artificial intelligence.’

While there were plenty of rumors and debates at first, all criticism ceased once the game launched. Its world-building was so flawless that no one could find fault with it.

But Woojin could tell. If this other world was truly real…

‘The AI didn’t create a perfect world.’

All Evil Tale had done was replicate a pre-existing one.

‘If that’s the case…’

Gulp. Woojin swallowed nervously.

Perhaps the key to resolving everything that had happened to him lay there.

‘The AI, [Ethan].’

The game, this world, and reality—all seemed connected by this singular existence.

‘I can see the path forward, at least a little.’

The only problem was figuring out how to return.

In the real world, the game was accessed through a capsule.

‘If this world is another version of reality…’

Then returning would require a device similar to the capsule.

But the absence of any obvious connection mechanism was a problem—there couldn’t be a capsule in this other world.

“Can I ask you for a favor?” Raul suddenly said.

“What is it?”

Woojin turned to Raul after snapping out of his thoughts.

“If you manage to return… and find yourself in the central continent, would you visit a small village called [Yorka]?”

“The central continent, huh… Sure, though I’ll need to level up quite a bit before I can get there.”

“There, you’ll find a small house with a green roof. A woman named Lea should be living there.”

Woojin nodded at Raul’s request.

“Could you tell her to watch out for colds?”

“…Excuse me?”

Surprised by the seemingly out-of-place request, Woojin stared at Raul.

“My mother suffered from pneumonia her entire life.”

Raul’s face softened as he shared a piece of his past. Woojin nodded quietly.

“I’ll make sure she hears it.”

Fifty years apart.

While Woojin wrestled with the fear of an unknown future, those left behind in the past carried messages they wished to send forward.

He still didn’t know if the game he’d return to was truly Raul’s past, but he couldn’t ignore a heartfelt request.

“Thank you. I couldn’t ask for more.”

Raul let out a deep sigh, as though relieved to have eased a long-held burden, and leaned back against a tree.

“Don’t make it sound like a farewell speech,” Woojin added.

“Cluck-cluck, my apologies. It’s just that from here on out, we’ll need to stay sharp.”

At Raul’s words, Woojin steeled himself.

They were heading west within the Shadow Forest.

‘If I recall, that’s where the goblins’ territory begins.’

Though goblins weren’t particularly strong, they were cunning.

Unlike most monsters, which were relentlessly aggressive, goblins knew how to retreat and even escape. In the game, they were infamous for being among the most persistent and annoying foes players had to deal with.

“Don’t worry. I’ve faced goblins before.”

“Goblins? That’s not what concerns me here,” Raul replied, his expression turning serious.

“The Faceless Monster.”

Woojin froze as a long-forgotten memory resurfaced.

“Be careful. This is its domain.”

Raul had warned him about it when they first met.

“Forty years ago, shortly after the Tower appeared, a black sorcerer from Murenka created a monster here.”

Raul lowered his stance, stepping cautiously.

“At first, people thought it was just another typical creation of black magic… but what does it mean when a creature survives even now, with the Tower cleared up to the 99th floor?”

Raul’s tone was heavier than ever.

“It means no one has been able to kill it.”

Gulp. Woojin swallowed again, his mouth dry.

“Could it be…?”

His voice trembled as he spoke.

“Is that the Faceless Monster?”

[Hrrrr…]

A raspy, metallic breath echoed from the darkness.

A shadow, darker than the surrounding gloom, emerged, revealing a rusted knight wielding a corroded sword.

Creak.

Its face, scarred as though burned, had no features—only two crimson glimmers stared back at them.

“…Damn it!!!”

The forest erupted in chaos once again.

[Gr-r-r…]

A low growl echoed from the cave’s entrance.

Though it was a tense moment, Raul let out a sigh of relief upon hearing the sound.

“Thank goodness. It’s a gray wolf.”

‘…Can you see it?’

Woojin looked toward the cave entrance Raul was glaring at, but saw nothing.

Even though he couldn’t see it, he knew what gray wolves were.

They were one of the low-tier monsters inhabiting the Dark Forest, a beginner’s zone near Moretti Village.

Weaker than goblins, they were prey for novices alongside slimes.

“…Let me help too.”

He had hunted a few in the game before.

“For now, stay here. Reducing their numbers before going in is better.”

Perhaps due to his nerves, Woojin clumsily drew his sword.

Watching him, Raul lightly patted his shoulder and drew a dagger from the leather strap slung diagonally across his chest.

Shwik—.

Without hesitation, he threw the dagger.

[Kaeng—!!]

A shriek pierced the air.

‘Throwing skill?’

Woojin stared at Raul in astonishment.

Shwik, shwik—!

Raul threw two more daggers.

One clanged against the cave wall, missing its mark, but the other struck the wolf squarely between its eyes.

‘As expected… similar to the game, yet different.’

In Evil Tale, warriors used swords, while the throwing skill belonged to rogues. Rogues couldn’t equip long swords like Raul’s.

Seeing that game restrictions like class-specific weapons didn’t apply here, Woojin was once again reminded that this was reality.

“Five of them. You can handle one, right?”

As he finished speaking, Raul drew his sword and slashed at the wolves.

“Huup—!!”

With a tense expression, Woojin gripped his sword.

Whoosh…!!

Keeping his eyes on the wolf, he swung the sword downward with all his strength.

Thud—!!!

The wolf leapt back with ease, leaving Woojin’s sword to pitifully strike the ground.

‘It’s heavy.’

The moment he drew the sword from its sheath, he felt his confidence waver.

Though Evil Tale prided itself on realism, many aspects had clearly been adjusted for player convenience.

Throb—.

After just a few swings, his wrist began to ache.

‘…Damn it!’

The fatigue was something he had never experienced in the game.

If the game had been this demanding, he would’ve collapsed before even starting a hunt.

“Huff… huff…”

The sword, which he had once wielded with ease in the game, now felt unbearably heavy.

Even with the death penalty hanging over him in the game, it couldn’t compare to the real danger of fighting for his life.

The extreme tension weighed down on his entire body.

“Hoo.”

Woojin exhaled sharply, while the wolf began circling him slowly, as if sensing an opening.

Bang—! Crash—!!

Raul fought the wolves skillfully, his sword slicing fluidly through the air.

Crunch—!!

His blade cut clean through a wolf’s nape.

Mesmerized by Raul’s graceful swordsmanship, Woojin found himself staring.

[Kaang—!!!]

That was a mistake.

The wolf didn’t miss the fleeting opportunity.

“Ugh!”

Woojin hastily raised his sword, but the wolf twisted its body mid-air and sank its teeth into his shoulder.

“Arghhh—!!!”

Pain as sharp as knives digging into his flesh overwhelmed him, and Woojin screamed, twisting his body in agony.

[Gr-r-r…]

The wolf leapt back, putting distance between them.

Its bared fangs were stained with Woojin’s blood.

“Huff… huff…”

Clutching his throbbing shoulder, Woojin pointed his trembling sword at the wolf.

The blade shaked like a leaf in the wind.

This was real.

The pain affirmed that this world was not a game but a stark reality.

‘I really… I’m really in another world.’

Doubting it was pointless.

The blood dripping down his arm was real, and the monster still threatening his life was right in front of him.

Flash—!!

The wolf lunged at its weary prey without hesitation.

“Arghhh!”

Woojin threw himself at the charging beast, rolling on the ground to narrowly dodge its attack. He swung his sword in desperation.

[Karung—!!!]

The wolf twisted its body unnaturally, effortlessly evading the strike before leaping back.

Thud—.

Woojin dove forward, grabbing the wolf’s leg as he slid.

Squish—!!

He thrust his sword into the wolf’s abdomen, piercing through its side.

Blood and entrails gushed out, splattering onto Woojin’s face.

“Ugh…!!”

Woojin shoved the wolf’s corpse off him and scrambled to his feet.

“Urgh…! Ughhh!!”

Though the guts weren’t as foul as he’d expected, their warmth twisted his stomach.

“Huff… huff…”

Amidst the horrific scene of blood, guts, and his own vomit, the wolf, clinging to life, snapped its jaws at him.

Slash—.

A silver flash swept before Woojin’s eyes.

“Never let your guard down. Even a low-tier monster has tenacious vitality.”

The growling wolf’s head rolled cleanly to the ground.

“Th-thank you.”

Were gray wolves always this vicious?

Woojin, pale with dread, nodded at Raul.

‘Huh?’

At that moment, he noticed Raul’s sword.

The silver flash from earlier hadn’t been his imagination.

A faint glow enveloped the blade.

“Could it be… an aura blade?”

“Ah, it’s nothing special.”

Raul spoke casually, but Woojin couldn’t hide his astonishment.

‘An aura blade? That’s the pinnacle skill in the warrior’s fifth-tier skill tree….’

“You’re incredible.”

“Ha, I may not look it, but I’m a first-class hunter.”

Raul smiled, showing off the small black feather ornament at his waist.

‘I thought this world mirrored the game, but… faced with real monsters, I froze and forgot about using any skills.’

Even at level 10, he had two skills: [Smash] and [Dash].

‘But how do I use them?’

This wasn’t the game, where skills could be learned automatically by leveling up.

Woojin silently watched Raul.

Squish—.

Raul sliced open the wolf’s belly with his dagger.

Crack…….

A faint crackling sound echoed.

“You’re in luck,” Raul remarked, pulling something out from within the wolf’s belly and holding it out to him.

“What is this?”

A small, red, stone-like fragment lay in Raul’s palm.

“It’s a rune.”

“…A rune?”

“It’s the lowest grade, but still useful. Red runes increase strength.”

The fragment glimmered faintly, decked with an unfamiliar, glowing pattern.

‘It’s real.’

Woojin stared at the rune in astonishment, hardly believing his eyes.

‘How is it possible for a rune to come from a gray wolf?’

Runes existed in Evil Tale, but they were rare. Information on them suggested that the Lizard King, the boss on the fifth floor of the Maze Tower, occasionally dropped them as a reward. Starting from the sixth floor, lower-tier runes could rarely drop from summoned monsters.

Yet here it was—a rune emerging from a gray wolf, a creature found in a beginner’s zone.

“Go ahead, try it,” Raul said, placing the rune in Woojin’s hand.

“…Are you sure I can have this?”

“Of course. A human body can only absorb a limited number of runes. For the lowest tier, it’s capped at twenty per attribute. I’ve already had my fill.”

In Evil Tale, even the lowest-tier runes were so rare that none could be found in the trading market.

‘This world might resemble the game, but it’s different.’

Unlike the game, which was still in the process of clearing the tenth floor, this place seemed to be the future, where the 99th floor had already been conquered.

‘This kind of difference is definitely welcome.’

Crunch.

The rune shattered more easily than expected.

“Oh…”

A refreshing, herbal aroma filled his mouth. As he swallowed, a warm sensation surged down his throat.

“This… feels incredible.”

A wave of vitality coursed through Woojin’s body.

‘A red rune… so it’s a strength rune.’

Whoosh.

The sword, which had felt heavy before, now seemed slightly lighter in his hands.

‘I don’t know about skills yet, but runes definitely have a noticeable effect.’

Grrr…….

A guttural growl came from outside the cave, pulling Woojin’s attention. A sea of glowing red eyes reflected the faint light outside, too many to count.

The excitement that had been bubbling inside him moments ago quickly cooled.

“…Looks like they’re not giving up.”

Raul’s words carried a note of grim humor, and Woojin steeled himself, gripping his sword tighter. But this time, something had changed.

‘One, two, three…’

Even in the face of countless enemies, fear didn’t overtake him.

‘Could there be more runes to collect?’

Instead, a spark of hope and determination lit his eyes. For the first time, this world didn’t feel so hostile.

---

[Kaeng…!!]

The pitiful cries of wolves echoed, but only briefly.

Thunk.

When the last wolf’s head hit the ground, morning light began to filter into the cave.

“…Morning already,” Raul muttered, leaning on his sword like a staff and stretching his back with a groan.

“How many were there? Can’t deny it anymore—age’s catching up to me. I’m exhausted.”

He was covered in blood, but the vast pool staining the ground wasn’t his own.

“It’s an agility rune,” Woojin said flatly, crouching over the last wolf’s body, completely unfazed by the metallic stench in the air.

“Heh, you’re adapting quickly. Didn’t you throw up the first time?”

‘Strength runes: 5, Agility runes: 6, Vitality runes: 8, Dexterity runes: 4.’

The haul from a single night of relentless combat.

‘In game terms, each lowest-tier rune increases the relevant stat by 5 points.’

In Evil Tale, leveling up awarded players 5 stat points per level.

‘So these runes are effectively one level-up each. If this were the game, I would’ve gained 24 levels in a single night.’

The achievement was astounding, yet it didn’t fill him with joy.

This wasn’t a game where death was reversible. If he died here, it was over.

‘I have to survive. At all costs.’

“Yes. There’s no reason to refuse a way to grow stronger,” Woojin said, his expression hardening as he crunched another agility rune between his teeth.

“But it’s not enough.”

“…Hmm?” Raul raised a curious brow, noticing the hungry gleam in Woojin’s eyes.

“Can I learn it too?”

A strange question. In a world where his very existence had vanished, where he was trapped in an unfamiliar reality, despair might have seemed natural.

Yet Woojin’s eyes burned with a fierce resolve.

‘Maybe this is an opportunity.’

This was a world without level caps. A place where skills weren’t locked behind rigid trees.

‘In the game, it would’ve been impossible…’

But here, it could be.

“Aura Blade.”

A master-tier skill unlocked only at level 99.

In the history of Evil Tale, no player had ever reached it.

“[The game is shutting down.]”

The light that had filled Woojin’s vision disappeared along with the notification.

“……What?”

When Woojin opened his eyes, he couldn’t help but feel shocked.

“Isn’t this… Moretti Village?”

But he had logged out, hadn’t he?

The game had ended, hadn’t it?

Why then…

Why was he seeing this tiresome scenery again?

The fountain standing behind him, the paths spread across the village—nothing had changed.

No…

Everything had changed far too much.

Everything was destroyed.

The village was nothing more than ruins.

“How… did this happen?”

BOOOOOM―――!!!

Before he could even grasp the situation, a deafening explosion erupted behind him.

The fountain shattered into countless pieces, blowing apart.

“Ugh, aaah!!!”

Woojin threw himself to the ground, rolling away.

CRASH――!!!

The wreckage of the broken fountain collapsed, narrowly missing him.

“Hah… Hah…”

Covered in dust, he cautiously opened his eyes, still shielding his face with his arms.

‘I… I’m alive.’

But there was no time to relax.

Creak… Crackle… BOOM!!

The nearby burning buildings began to collapse one by one.

Instinctively, Woojin shielded his head with both hands and sprinted.

[SCREECH―――!!]
[KEEEEK――!!]

The ear-piercing screeches made Woojin frantically glance around.

“The village…”

Everything was engulfed in flames.

Thick black smoke spiraled into the sky, and fires raged across the village.

[SCREEEEE―――!!!!!]

The shrieking continued, and when the source appeared before him, Woojin could only stand frozen in shock.

“What in the world… happened here?”

It was then.

“Get down!!”

A rough voice shouted from behind him.

Woojin didn’t even have time to turn around; he ducked immediately.

THUNK―!!!

A dull sound rang out, and a warm, sticky substance splattered onto the back of his hand, which was shielding his head.

Thud―.

Something fell, brushing his shoulder as it hit the ground.

“Ugh!”

When Woojin looked up, he screamed.

A grotesque, bat-like creature’s head lay at his feet.

“Gargoyle scum! They’ve made it this far in. If Moretti’s in this state, then the central continent must be even worse.”

Woojin raised his gaze.

Before him stood an older man, clad in bloodstained armor and breathing heavily.

“Are you an adventurer? I don’t recognize your face. It’s impressive you made it this far.”

“What?”

“You look young, but if you’ve made it here, you must have some luck on your side. Are you headed to the Lion King’s Bastion too?”

The man’s words were directed at Woojin.

“The Lion King?”

…Who was that?

“But be careful. This is the domain of the Faceless Monsters. This place used to be a beginner’s hunting ground back in the day…”

The man swept his gaze around and spoke again.

“It’s one of the most dangerous places. If not for the cursed Myurenka family’s foolish meddling, Moretti wouldn’t have fallen so far.”

‘Faceless Monsters? Myurenka? What is he talking about?’

It was all unfamiliar to Woojin.

Unable to comprehend the situation, he stared at the man, his expression dazed.

“Treasure your life. If you survive, we may meet again…”

“Wait a second!”

“…?”

“What is this place? And what happened to the village? The tower… Where is the tower?”

This man seemed to know about this world. Woojin couldn’t just let him go.

The ruined village was alarming enough, but the strangest thing of all was the absence of the tower.

The one central to [Evil Tale], the giant structure that pierced the skies wherever you stood in the continent.

It was nowhere to be seen.

“The tower?”

But the man only tilted his head, as if Woojin’s words made no sense.

“The Maze Tower! The 100-floor structure… The one where monsters reside!”

If this world was [Evil Tale] as Woojin knew it, then the tower should exist.

“A 100-floor tower…? Are you talking about Vandalious Tower? That thing collapsed ages ago.”

“…What? Collapsed?”

Woojin was at a loss for words.

“The final assault team cleared the 99th floor ten years ago, didn’t they?”

The old man spoke as if it were common knowledge, but Woojin couldn’t understand what he was hearing.

“Ten… Ten years ago?”

Woojin’s surprise was evident.

“We’re only just clearing the 10th floor…”

“This is the 87th year of Akedoinar, isn’t it?”

“87th? What are you talking about? That was 50 years ago.”

“Fifty years…?”

“Hold on.”

Something about this man’s words felt off.

And it wasn’t just the dates.

Why was the tower gone after clearing the 99th floor?

Wasn’t the final floor supposed to remain?

[SCREEEEEE――!!!]

Woojin’s spiraling confusion was interrupted by the deafening cries of gargoyles.

The swarm, filling the sky, seemed ready to descend at any moment.

“We have to move. Night is falling.”

The man grabbed Woojin’s arm.

“If you want to live, follow me.”

“W-wait, what?!”

With a grip that felt unnaturally strong, the old man pulled Woojin effortlessly.

‘What strength…’

But before Woojin could process anything, the man was already dashing toward the forest, leaving the village behind.

“W-wait a second!”

Through the nightmarish ruins, the sound of their footsteps gradually faded.

---

“…What? You’re not from this world? And there’s a place where people revive after dying?”

Having escaped the village and taken refuge in a small cave within the forest, they finally had a chance to talk.

“What a world to live in. I’m almost jealous.”

Unlike Woojin, who spoke with gravity, the old man merely laughed it off.

‘Of course. He wouldn’t believe me.’

Even Woojin found his own story absurd.

If he added that this was a game world and his reality lay elsewhere, the man would surely think he was insane.

‘And looking like this…’

Woojin awkwardly glanced at his outfit.

Worn leather armor, a sword strapped to his waist, and a pocketful of potions clinking softly with his every move.

He wasn’t Kim Woojin of the real world anymore.

He was Khan, the level 10 warrior from [Evil Tale].

‘What in the world is going on? I saw the logout notification…’

This wasn’t reality.

It was another world.

And here, Woojin had become his game character.

‘That village was definitely Moretti.’

Despite being in ruins, he was certain it was the starting village for beginners.

A place surrounded by nothing more dangerous than slimes and gnolls.

But now…

‘There were gargoyles flying around.’

High-level monsters that could only be seen in the central continent.

This place resembled the game world he knew but was an entirely different one.

‘Just how many of those creatures are here?’

The thought alone made his body start trembling uncontrollably, like a leaf in the wind.

“Take it.”

At that moment, the old man handed something to Woojin.

A fragrant and savory aroma wafted up.

*Growl…*

Oddly, the hunger overtook the trembling.

“You need to fill your belly to have the strength to fight—whether against enemies or yourself.”

Woojin bowed his head slightly as he accepted the bowl.

“This was something we had before the Central Continent fell. It’s quite rare now.”

Inside the bowl was a thin, watery soup.

Its taste was bland, as though it had been diluted to increase the volume.

But…

*Gulp, gulp.*

Woojin began devouring the soup hungrily.

“Not bad, is it?”

The old man smiled faintly as if he understood.

“Ha…”

When he finally emptied the bowl, Woojin let out a breath.

The warmth that slid down his throat spread pleasantly through his entire body.

Strangely, this simple soup felt like the best meal he’d ever had.

“Only survivors get to experience such privileges,” the old man said, pouring his soup into Woojin’s empty bowl.

“I’m Raul.”

“Kim Woo… No, Khan,” Woojin corrected himself after glancing at his attire again.

There had to be a reason he arrived here in this form.

“And this place… where exactly is it?”

“Ah, that’s right. You said you came from another world, didn’t you?”

Raul teased with a grin.

“It’s true. There’s a place identical to this one. Though, even that isn’t my actual home… Anyway, over there, they’re still tackling the tenth floor of the tower.”

“The tenth floor? Hah… If that’s true, it sounds like a blissful world.”

“Excuse me?”

Raul gave him a self-deprecating smile.

“Fine. You still sound crazy, but I’ll play along. It’s been half a year since I’ve had a conversation.”

He looked at Woojin.

For some reason, Woojin felt as if he had asked a question he shouldn’t have.

“The tower appeared out of nowhere, and many adventurers challenged it. They gained incredible rewards and resources, which led to prosperity for the kingdoms.”

“Then… why is everything like this now?”

“They thought that prosperity would last forever but it didn’t.”

“Why? What happened on the 99th floor?”

Raul shook his head.

“The world’s downfall wasn’t because of the 99th floor. By the time we reached the 60th floor, the world had already changed.”
“…?”

“The monsters inside the tower began pouring out into the world.”

*Grit.*

He clenched his teeth.

“But we didn’t just sit back and take it. We fought desperately, pushing forward in the tower. We clung to the words inscribed on the monument found on the 60th floor, where the monsters started emerging.”

“What did it say?”

Woojin asked with a trembling voice.

‘Clear the 100th floor, and any wish, any miracle, can be granted.’

*Gulp.*

Woojin swallowed dryly at Raul’s words.

‘If that’s true…’

Would conquering the 100th floor allow him to return to reality, fulfilling his wish?

“But that was as far as it went. Clearing the 100th floor is impossible.”

As if reading Woojin’s thoughts, Raul spoke in a low voice.

“Why not?”

“There’s no way to reach the 100th floor.”

Raul gestured outside the cave.

“See that? The floating castle in the sky. That’s the 100th floor.”

“…What?”

It was unimaginable.

‘The tower’s final floor is in the sky?’

Woojin stared blankly, speechless, as he raised his head.

Raul poured water into his bowl to rinse out the remaining soup before wrapping himself in his cloak and sitting down.

“It’s time to give up. How could anyone reach that tower in the sky? All the kingdoms of the Central Continent have fallen… The only hope left is to flee to the refuge being built by the Lion King.”

With that, he turned his body, seemingly preparing to sleep.

“Since I fed you, I’m taking a nap first. Wake me when the hourglass runs out—it’ll be about two hours.”

Was he unconcerned? Or just confident in his abilities?

‘What? He’s already asleep?’

Raul began snoring the moment his eyes closed.

“Hah.”

With the chaotic moments past, Woojin was left alone in silence.

He began to reflect on his situation.

Trapped in a game world wasn’t bad enough; now, it was another world entirely.

“Aren’t you mistaken?”

The words of the administrator at the plaza came to mind.

– [R&C Technology] achieves 100 billion won in sales!!

– Named one of the world’s Top 20 Young CEOs!!

– Kim Woojin Group expands beyond Asia to global success!!

Once, he was the subject of countless headlines.

From the bottom to the pinnacle of success,

he had lived a life that seemed mythical.

But now…

‘Nothing feels certain anymore.’

Even his memories felt shaky, as if his very existence were fading.

He had only enjoyed games for brief moments of time,

but they had been his only relief in a suffocating, intense life.

Yet now…

His hand fell to the sword at his waist.

Unlike a game, it felt heavy and real.

A true sword.

Golf, squash, climbing, swimming—he had tried many things in reality,
including kendo.

He had even competed in significant tournaments, so he was confident with a sword.

That confidence had led him to choose the warrior class in *Evil Tale.*

But the moment his hand touched this sword, he realized—

Could he truly wield it?

Its weight and solid feel were incomparable to a wooden practice sword.

“…Login.”

Woojin glanced at Raul and muttered softly.

There was no response.

With a low sigh, he spoke louder.

“Login!”

Still nothing.

‘After trying so hard to leave the game world… I actually want to return now.’

It was absurd, but Woojin forced himself to stay composed.

“Status window!”

He called out with some hope, but still, nothing happened.

Raul stirred and sat up.

“Oh, it’s nothing. Just… a prayer before bed…”

*Shh.*

Raul raised a finger to his lips.

“It seems we won’t get to rest tonight.”

*Clink.*

Raul silently drew his sword and turned toward the cave entrance, his voice dropping to a murmur.

“Monsters.”

Woojin’s embarrassed gaze sharpened, his heart pounding.

“Hey, hey, wasn’t last night insane?

The sudden blackout, then the server going down… For a moment, I thought I’d passed out.

Isn’t there any compensation or something?”

“Compensation? Forget it.

If it was because of poor server management, maybe, but it was a natural disaster.

They say the whole world blacked out at the same time.”

“Yeah, and it was down for like, what, one or two seconds tops?

Man, you’re just so greedy…”

“Heh-heh.”

[Starting Village: Moretti]

The plaza of Moretti, one of the beginner areas, was bustling with players.

They were all talking about yesterday’s massive blackout event.

An unprecedented global blackout.

For industries like media, banking, and key infrastructure, even a brief one or two seconds of outage could cause significant disruption.

But for ordinary gamers, it was just a minor hiccup—mere gossip to laugh off.

“But hey, I heard the Phoenix Clan is going for the 10th floor this time.”

“Really? Wow… And it hasn’t been that long since they cleared the 9th floor. That’s incredible.”

“Sigh, when will we ever get to the Labyrinth Tower?”

“Get there? First, we need to get out of the beginner zones. The Labyrinth Tower is in the central continent.”

“Haa… It looks so close, but it’s so far away.”

The players muttered as they gazed at the towering structure piercing the sky in the distance.

A colossal tower visible from anywhere on the continent.

It was the [Labyrinth Tower], the ultimate goal of every player.

[Eviltale], the virtual reality game created by the world’s first autonomous AI, [Ethan].

From its development phase, it was shrouded in rumors.

A new, unheard-of company [Andra] was making a game using an uncommercialized autonomous AI?

And instead of the conventional helmet-based VR systems, they were introducing capsule-like devices capable of digitizing all five senses?

It sounded like something out of a comic book, and at first, people were intrigued.

But as three years passed without significant news, they dismissed it as nothing more than an empty promise.

Then, in the fifth year, [Eviltale] took the world by storm.

From the gusts of wind to the scents in the air.

From the warmth of the sun to the intricate landscapes of buildings.

Even the intuitive intensity of combat.

Everything felt novel and astounding.

A challenge to the impossible.

Those who experienced [Eviltale] even claimed it wasn’t made by humans.

With 300 million concurrent users and 1.5 billion total registrants, the game didn’t just achieve popularity—it consumed the world with fervor.

And so, as always, people were enjoying [Eviltale].

All except for one person.

“P-Please! I’m begging you!

Contact this number for me!”

“No, wait! Call the police! Please…!”

A murmur spread among the players in Moretti’s plaza.

A rumor about a crazy man running around.

• Is that crazy guy still running around Moretti Village?
• Nope. It’s been three days. Now he’s just standing by the fountain with a sign around his neck.
• Yeah, I saw him too. He was crying, saying he’s trapped in the game since the blackout.
• LMAO, attention-seeking loser. If he’s trapped, why’s the logout button working fine for everyone else?

Posts about the man started appearing in the in-game community.

By the tenth day, the whispers grew louder.

“Isn’t that guy… the one?”

“Could he really be unable to log out?”

“No way. If that were true, the developers would’ve done something by now. Admins have been here several times.”

People whispered as they watched the man standing in the plaza.

• There’s a full 24-hour livestream on YouTube. Looks like he really can’t log out.
• Nah, he’s probably just an NPC.
• OMG, what if it’s a hidden quest? 😂

By the 20th day, even the skeptics in the community started to change their tone.

“…Do you think he’s dead or something?”

“No way.”

“Some YouTubers and streamers visited the address on his sign, but there was nothing there.”

“Of course there wasn’t. It’s all fake.”

“Apparently, the police got so many reports they issued a public announcement. They said the ID number doesn’t even exist.”

As the murmurs continued, suspicion and cynicism replaced curiosity by the 30th day.

And that suspicion turned into cruel ridicule.

Drip… drip…

Rain began to fall.

“…”

The man stood silently at the fountain in the center of the plaza, his head hung low.

“I… can’t log out.”

His dry lips barely moved.

“Please… help me.”

His stamina had long been depleted, and he could barely remain standing.

Hunger had maxed out days ago, and his vision was blurred, as if shrouded in fog.

How many days had it been?

He had lost track of time, endlessly repeating the same words.

“Damn it. That lunatic again… doesn’t he ever get tired?”

“They say the ID number on his sign is fake too.”

“Apparently, the police issued an official statement yesterday, asking people to stop filing reports. The ID doesn’t exist.”

“Geez… The things people do for attention these days.”

The reactions were cold and indifferent.

“…I can’t reach my family.”

“…Please.”

Thud.

He collapsed to his knees, bowing his head as if in prayer.

“Please… find me…”

The rain, now pouring like a storm, drowned his quiet sobs.

“Ah… ahhh…”

His tears flowed freely, as if to wash away his accumulated despair.

The plaza was bustling with players, all happily enjoying the game.

It was natural.

For them, returning to reality was as simple as pressing a button.

But for him?

‘What on earth… is going on?’

Even he couldn’t make sense of it.

Clenching his fists on the ground, Woojin muttered.

“Trapped… in a game.”

What he had only imagined was now happening to him.

And yet…

It was nothing like he had imagined.

If he had been alone in this situation, perhaps he would have accepted it.

But the mundane conversations around him kept piercing his ears.

Talk of tonight’s dinner.

Complaints about bosses at work.

Plans for a date later.

Ordinary, everyday conversations.

The players in the plaza casually talked about their lives outside the game.

It was only natural.

They could return to reality anytime they wished by simply logging out.

But for him…

‘I can’t go back.’

How could he explain it?

It felt like being trapped behind an invisible wall, separated from everyone else.

“Logout…”

Clinging to a sliver of hope, he uttered the command again.

“…Damn it.”

Nothing changed.

This place was undeniably real.

And yet…

Ironically, he couldn’t return to reality.

---

“I’m sorry, but the system says we can’t verify your identity. It seems the ID number you provided is incorrect…”

The game administrator, GM Dane, replied with a hint of irritation to the man before him.

• Hey, who’s in charge of Moretti?
• Um…
• Didn’t you say this would be resolved after my vacation? Why is this lunatic still causing a scene in the plaza?!
• S-Sorry.

Dane sighed as he looked at the dedicated admin chat only accessible to game operators.

It was now the 45th day since Kim Woojin had started making a commotion in the plaza.

“That… that’s impossible! Please check again. My name is Kim Woojin. I’m 35 years old…”

He was still desperate.

“You’ve requested identity verification dozens of times already.”

And the staff seemed just as fed up as he was desperate.

“I’m here today to inform you that our management team can no longer process your identity verification requests.”

GM Dane, team leader of the second operations division, spoke coldly to Woojin.

“…What?”

“Our team never lies to our customers. This is something only admins can see, but I’m making an exception for you.”

Click, click.

With an irritated expression, Dane tapped on a holographic keyboard and turned the screen toward Woojin.

• Identity verification failed.
• The provided ID number does not exist.

“Sir, you mentioned issues with logging out.

Without accurate information, we cannot assist you.”

“I’m giving you the correct information! How could I not know my own ID number?!”

Woojin’s voice rose in panic.

“Our account system, called [World Info], integrates user data not just in Korea but worldwide.”

“And?”

“If the information you provided doesn’t exist, it means either you’re lying…

…or you don’t exist in this world.”

Dane’s voice dropped to a menacing tone.

Flinch.

Woojin’s shoulders tensed as if crushed by an invisible weight.

“If you continue spreading baseless rumors and damaging [Eviltale]’s reputation, we’ll have no choice but to take action.”

“…Damaging your reputation? Do you even hear yourself?”

“Pardon?”

“Fine! Go ahead! Take action! Force logout, ban my account, do something!

Just get me out of this damned game already!”

‘…What the hell?’