Chapter 79 - Chapter 79

Chapter 79

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Translated by Jinmu

Read more at hivetoons.org

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It is common for people to get depressed.

It is extremely normal.

Getting depressed because tomorrow is Monday.

Getting depressed after receiving this month's credit card statement.

Getting depressed looking at clothes that don't fit because you gained weight.

Getting depressed because you suddenly think of an ex-lover.

However, these are merely changes in emotions.

When the problem is resolved, or a little time passes, you get better quickly, as if nothing happened.

But the symptom called clinical depression (Clinical Depression) is completely different from a simple emotional change.

Clinical depression is an illness caused by abnormal secretion of neurotransmitters and hormones.

It absolutely requires pharmacological treatment.

If left untreated, the consequences are obvious.

It harms not only oneself but also others.

There was an incident where a co-pilot of a certain airline company deliberately crashed the plane he was piloting out of depression, dying along with 150 passengers.

Guillaume Loiret.

Level 65, France's top player.

His trait was [Brute Strength].

Having completed clearing the 64th floor of the Black Tower, he was currently in the middle of clearing the 65th floor, the Headless Knight Dullahan.

There was a fatal flaw with Guillaume.

Specifically, severe clinical depression.

Right after being selected as a player belonging to the French government, the illness suddenly struck him.

For a player to have depression.

Wouldn't it get better inside the tower?

Since physical abilities improve and mana is obtained.

But even after entering the tower, his depression didn't improve.

Tower-exclusive healing potions were also useless.

Because of that, Guillaume wanted to die.

Throwing himself into fighting monsters inside the tower, it would naturally happen.

He had no fear of death whatsoever.

Because he was rushing in specifically to die.

However, an unexpected result occurred.

He threw his body in to die, yet instead, the monsters were swept away like autumn leaves in the wind.

It was a kind of synergy effect.

A bold charge fearing no death, reckless offensive strikes completely disregarding defense, and talent.

The tower clear was like a hot knife through butter.

Checking Guillaume Loiret's bodycam clear footage, the French government decided to invest in him.

Naturally, Runes of Trait Enhancement were given to him.

Then, what were the enhanced traits?

[Enhanced Brute Strength]

The original brute strength increased by more than double.

[Brute Strength of Concentration]

In moments of crisis, all physical abilities momentarily increase drastically (Cooldown time: 24 hours).

[Indomitable Brute Strength]

When suffering a fatal wound, instantly recovers vitality, increases brute strength, improves physical abilities, and resets skill cooldowns (Cooldown time: 24 hours).

Trait enhancement applied three times.

With this, how could he die?

The determination to die and the determination to kill monsters.

The two harmonized exquisitely.

Guillaume instantly rose as a hero of France.

Everyone praised him.

Wealth and honor naturally followed.

The French government also knew of Guillaume's clinical depression.

They managed him meticulously, combining counseling and antidepressant pharmacological treatment.

At the same time, it was kept strictly top secret.

What would people think if the hero of France was suffering from depression?

His depression improved greatly.

No, he was almost cured.

That is, until he entered the undead section.

The dark aura of the undead.

It was at the level of poison to a depression patient.

The effect of the pharmacological treatment also decreased significantly.

All sorts of negative thoughts tormented him.

He wanted to stop clearing immediately.

Especially after sending off his beloved wife to cancer a few months ago, the symptoms worsened day by day.

But could he stop?

When he knew how much expectation the French government and its people placed upon him.

Guillaume, it's only you.

Please save France.

The collapse of the tower must be prevented.

Honestly, he was sick and tired of it.

Wondering what crime he had committed to have such a heavy burden placed upon him.

The French government had also reserved the Holy Sword.

Next in line after Saudi Arabia.

But to Guillaume, it wasn't a very welcome matter.

"Holy Sword, what Holy Sword."

He's brushing everything off and leaving.

To the place where his wife is waiting.

Finally, Guillaume Loiret made up his mind.

"65th floor? I'll clear it even without the Holy Sword."

He had a method.

A means to breakthrough not only the 65th floor, but perhaps the 66th, 67th, 68th, and 69th floors as well.

He will do as they want.

And then he'll leave without any lingering attachments.

To where his wife waits.

* * *

Nasser Al Abud.

Level 66, Saudi Arabia's top player.

His trait was initially [Axe Warrior].

After that, through 5 trait enhancements, he evolved into an [Axe Master].

Possessing 50 combat skills alone.

He held attribute attacks as well as various wide-area attacks, ultimate techniques, and finishing moves.

The axe Nasser usually uses is a Great Axe as huge as his own body.

Since his height is 2m, the axe's length is about that much too.

Befitting an axe warrior, Nasser's personality was macho and a tough guy.

In short, a typical real man.

This personality was applied exactly alike to his method of clearing the tower.

Unconditionally striking first, smashing, breaking, and chopping with the giant axe.

But the Specter on the 66th floor was too much, even for him.

Overwhelming physicals, a dark aura that made even approaching it bothersome. Thus, to Nasser, it was practically a natural enemy.

Inevitably, he had to borrow the power of the Holy Sword.

Could a player with the Axe Master trait properly use a Holy Sword?

Why couldn't he?

He just needs to use the sword like an axe.

Of course, it would require a little bit of practice.

Now in two days, Nasser will depart for South Korea on a private jet from Saudi Arabia's King Khalid International Airport.

Clearing the 66th floor of Saudi Arabia's Black Tower was already as good as cleared.

* * *

The Awakening Management Agency.

Jeon Kwang-il was conversing with Director Park Kyung-soo,

"Hahaha, good work. It turned out very well. Only now do I feel at ease."

Jeon Kwang-il and Director Park Kyung-soo were sharing secrets about Bong Joo-hyuk.

So he told him everything that happened in the penthouse.

To properly support Bong Joo-hyuk, that was necessary.

Because there are things that can only be accomplished with the Director's approval.

This company establishment matter was also accomplished directly by Director Park Kyung-soo stepping forward.

However, he didn't mention the rescue of the kidnapped players in China nor the cause of President Lin Chaoming's death.

Because he officially 'didn't hear it'.

Except for those, he told him everything else.

"I think we can proceed like this. Jung Dong-hoon also has some ability as a person."

"Taking this opportunity, couldn't we just pull all the leather going to HG Fashion?"

"We couldn't possibly do that, right? The contract is already signed, however, I plan to delete the exclusivity clause."

"Legal issues?"

"There are none. We hold the upper hand. The addendum of the contract states that the exclusivity clause can be removed at any time."

Director Park Kyung-soo also nodded in satisfaction.

"Ah right! What happened with the South Korean citizenship issue?"

"Player Bong Joo-hyuk brought up the topic of acquiring Korean citizenship."

"Really? What did he say?"

"He said that he doesn't want IDs issued or the summoned entities' personal information recorded on the computer system."

"Hmm."

An unfortunate expression on Park Kyung-soo.

"Instead, he just asked to allow smartphone activation. Using something like burner phones or phones under a pseudonym."

That, at least, is not a difficult task.

Since several employees of the Management Agency are also using phones under pseudonyms due to the nature of their work.

But it's a bit of a shame.

"It'd be perfect if all of them acquired South Korean citizenship, though."

"We shouldn't approach them too hastily. And anyway, all decisions depend on Player Bong."

He knows from having seen it himself.

He wasn't with them for even a few hours, but the level of loyalty the summoned entities held towards Bong Joo-hyuk was beyond words.

"It's more important to form a deeper intimacy with Player Bong Joo-hyuk than with them."

"That would be."

Then Director Park Kyung-soo's gaze stopped and settled on Jeon Kwang-il's chest.

A sparkling badge.

"Hmm? What is that badge? I haven't seen it before."

"Th, this one, sir?... I received it from Player Bong."

"...Why?"

"He said it was a token of gratitude for supporting him sincerely up to this point."

"Is that so?"

"The summoned entities also had at least one pinned on their chests. The beast-man tribe Mr. Rajix had a whopping 3."

"Oh! Mr. Rajix, I'd like to meet him once too."

Director Park Kyung-soo carefully examining the badge.

"But why isn't there one for me?"

"Yes?"

"No, well, the penthouse matter and this company establishment matter too, those are all things that I approved or personally moved for, so I have the right to receive one too."

"...Well. I will try suggesting it next time I meet him."

"Don't forget, absolutely!"

He will mention it, of course.

Imagining Director Park Kyung-soo standing in front of Player Bong Joo-hyuk having a badge award ceremony is somewhat funny but.

"Anything else additionally?"

"He's planning to buy a car, and he asked me to look into whether there are any reliable used car dealers I know of...."

"Huh? A used car?"

"Yes. He said he plans to buy a camper van."

"He could buy whatever kind of car he wishes, so why a used car of all things?"

"He said new cars take too long from purchase to delivery."

"Ah!"

It's true that if you pick well, a used car is no less than a new car.

He thinks he also knows why he wants to buy a camper van.

"Putting that aside, where is the next holy sword rental country?"

"Saudi Arabia. The schedule is in 3 days."

"The subject of rental?"

"Nasser Al Abud, Saudi's top player."

"There won't be any problems, right?"

"He has achieved trait enhancements 5 times. There are no known risk factors as of currently."

If a player has achieved trait enhancements 5 times, is there anything to worry about?

"Next after Saudi?"

"France."

"The reservations are fully booked. From now on, you don't need to report to me, just proceed on your own."

A pleased smile from Park Kyung-soo.

As expected, if you pick the right subordinates, everything goes smoothly.

Clearing the Black Tower, operating the Management Agency, and holy sword rentals. He hopes things continue flowing exactly like this.

* * *

3 days had passed since clearing the 66th floor.

During that time, he occasionally went in to do repetitive missions and spent his time.

Actually, he didn't plan to do repetitive missions either, but unable to withstand Rajix's pestering, he went in two times and came out.

When a worker wants to work, what can he do.

Sometime when he has time, he should play him Pororo's song.

The song containing the famous phrase, "Playing is the best."

Joo-hyuk was rolling around alone in the penthouse.

He couldn't even fall asleep.

Because his heart was grandly swelling with anticipation.

Ah, today was that very day. Waiting and waiting again.

'It seems it's about time.'

Why no call?

At that moment! Zziiing! His smartphone vibrating.

"Whoa, it's here!"

Joo-hyuk answered the phone with a trembling heart.

"Ah! Yes, yes, that's right. You're waiting down below? I'll come down right away."

He hurriedly took the elevator to the ground parking lot of the apartment complex.

"Mr. Bong Joo-hyuk?"

"Yes, that's me. Is it this car?"

"Hahaha, that's correct. You just need to inspect it and sign the vehicle receipt form."

It was a used imported camper van.

Because new cars take too long.

However, you could practically call it a new car.

Not only was the exterior sparkling, but the interior was neat and clean as if it had been newly decorated.

"This is a car the previous owner only drove 3 times. It's only 'used' in name, it's practically new car level."

"I like it."

"Registration, tax processing, and insurance have all been completed, so you can just take it and leave right away."

Signing the vehicle receipt form. Joo-hyuk sat in the driver's seat.

'Shall I leave immediately?'

There is no need to hesitate. He had already laid out all the preparations.

First,

"John Cossack, Designated Summoning."

Spot!

"Cold..., hurk! Wh, where is this, sir?"

"Hoot! Try guessing."

Rolling his eyes back and forth looking around, Cossack,

"Uwaa, is it a ca, camper van, sir?"

"Ding dong! That's correct."

"The one where you're happy when you buy it, and even happier when you sell it, the camper van, sir?"

Where did he hear that one from again?

Anyway, summoning everyone else.

"This place is.... a car, it's large so I like it."

Gobang was also satisfied.

"Ahh, you finally purchased one. Young Master's wish is fulfilled, this girl congratulates you."

Gyeon Dal-rae congratulated him,

"Ho-e?"

Rajix also rolled here and there with curious eyes, and then immediately started cleaning.

Scrub, scrub!

The already clean interior of the camper van began exuding a glossy shine.

"Umm."

Forcing her sleepy eyes open, Veronica spotted the cot bed located at the back of the car.

"Commander, let me just use that over there...."

"Sleep soundly."

"Ce, Certain Victory!"

Thud.

"Koooar, zzzzzzzz, drrr-krooo!"

Seeing Master Sergeant Be falling into a sweet sleep, he felt he really bought it well.

"Let's depart right away."

"Whoop!"

"Ho-e!"

He should enter the address into the navigation first.

The destination was Joo-hyuk's land located in Namyangju.

Starting the engine,

Vroooom.

Gear in drive, as he gently stepped on the accelerator,

Ssssshhh.

The camper van moved smoothly.

"Bung-bungie is departing, sir!"

The camper van carrying Joo-hyuk and his party entered the road.

Everything was extremely smooth so far.

Except for one minor problem.

"E, excuse me, Summoner Bong, sir,"

"Why? Please don't try to talk to me while I'm driving."

"I, isn't it too slow, sir?"

What's slow about 40km/h?

"Don't you know safety first? Safety first? This guy lost his original mindset."

"Mmm."

"If I speed, and huh? get into an accident, huh? will you take responsibility?"

"S, sorry, sir."

Gyeon Dal-rae opened her mouth with a quiet tone.

"Young Master, please pay him no mind. There occasionally exist such types of people who lack even a driver's license yet rudely dictate whether you work or rest from the passenger seat."

"By their looks, they delusionally consider themselves a racing athlete or something. If it bothers you, please just abandon him on the side of the highway."

"...Th, those are harsh words."

He doesn't know if 'dictate whether you work or rest' is the correct expression, but it worked.

Even while speeding down the highway at 50km/h, Cossack said nothing.

The high beams continuously flashing from behind.

Honk-honk, the sound of the car horns ringing out.

To Joo-hyuk, it felt like they were congratulating him on purchasing a camper van.

Thank you.

And I am sorry.

It's because I'm a coward, a beta male.

I have a closet driver's license.

I'll bump it up 10km more and step on it up to 60km.

"Uwa! We just passed the IC, sir. We were supposed to exit here, sir. Why did you just go straight, sir?"

No, why doesn't he know that a real man only goes straight?

"I'll, I'll just go over there and come back."

"Young Master, please open the door. Sir Cossack must be thrown out."

"Summoner, pull over at a rest stop. I shall take care of the assassin and return."

"Ho-ek!"

By the way, will I arrive at the destination during the day today?