Chapter 129:

We kindly ask for your understanding regarding the inconsistency of character pronouns, particularly for the Entities (ex. The Greedy Predator). In Korean, pronouns are rarely used, making it challenging to ascertain a character's gender or identity until later narratives unfold. Update twice a week [SUN] & [THURS] starting August 2024!

December 31st was when their parents departed this world and the miraculous day when the Cheorwon Dungeon was closed. A commemorative ceremony was held at the Seoul National Cemetery every year to honor the Hunters who protected Korea.

Until Jeaheon left for Athena, he attended the event every year. Standing tall and resolute, he endured the gaze and chatter of the crowd from the beginning to the end. On the other hand, Seora had never attended the ceremony, not even once. She simply visited her parents’ graves with a bouquet of flowers like an ordinary person paying tribute to a hero the day before, on the 30th.

She didn’t want to witness the sight of people mourning while also rejoicing over their sacrifices. However, this year is different. Ever since Seora revealed herself as their daughter, she had a choice.

“There’s still three days left, so I’ll take my time to think about it.”

“...That’s right. Seora, no matter which path you choose, make a decision solely for yourself, not because of anyone else’s pressure. Auntie and I will support you no matter what.”

“Of course. I know both of you only care about me.”

She didn’t want to think of others exerting themselves to protect her, as much as she disliked thinking of her mother. But family was different. Family members strived for each other’s well-being, so she would gladly accept their protection. And she would do the same for them.ViiSiit novelbi/n(.)c/(o)m for latest novels

“Well then, I’m off. Now nothing is holding me back. I’ll fly immediately if I hear any news of you getting hurt, so be careful.”

“Do you know where the Athena headquarters are?”

“That’s the problem. Where is it exactly? No matter how secret it is, it’s hard to believe it can be this well-hidden.”

“If it becomes known, it would be a waste to call it a secret base.” Behind his warm smile, there was a sense of pride about Athena.

It was a much better sight than seeing him consumed by revenge, so Seora smiled along with him.

***

5 PM, Seoul Airport.

The numerous reporters waiting for the private jet couldn’t contain their excitement.

It was already a hot topic that the president had specially opened Seoul Airport to welcome the three Korean L-class Hunters who had successfully conquered the 8th floor of the Labyrinth and contributed to world peace.

“Can you believe Headbang was the biggest contributor to the Labyrinth? I never saw this coming.”

While it was true that other Hunters had made significant contributions too, the significance of Headbang’s achievement in the Labyrinth was unparalleled. She was the one who had led the charge for world peace, fearlessly taking on challenges without caring for her own well-being. Only someone like her could make a name for themselves.

In other words, her mere presence could shake up the world ranking.

And to make it even more impressive, the most crucial contributor was a Korean Hunter, and not just any Hunter—she was the most recent L-class Awakened. Even those not interested in national pride couldn’t help but shout, “Hurray!”

“But that’s not all. It turns out that Headbang is the daughter of Hyeon Jaehui.”

Who was Hyeon Jaehui? She had been the first S-class Hunter in Korea and was still considered one of the strongest Hunters in the country. Her name was always brought up whenever discussions about the most powerful Hunters in Korea arose. A hero who dedicated herself to the country, sacrificing without caring for her own well-being, and eventually giving her life for the nation—she was like a character straight out of a movie and the most beloved figure among Koreans.

And now, her daughter, Headbang, had an even more dramatic life than Hyeon Jaehui’s.

“The plane is landing!”

At the shout from someone, all the reporters at the airport turned their attention. Song Hanna’s private jet was arriving. The reporters stopped their chatter and raised their cameras. Not a single moment could be missed from when the three L-class Hunters disembarked the plane and got into their cars.

The door opened, and Kang Sejun appeared first. The sharp gaze he cast around made the intimidated reporters lower their cameras discreetly.

This time he was officially attending, so, hopefully, he wouldn’t break any cameras, right? Well, surely not...

But those who had experienced it before couldn’t help but be on guard, trying to protect their cameras from Kang Sejun’s gaze.

“Wow, being treated by the president. Life sure has its surprises. Can I eat a lot today?”

“As much as you want. It’s not a bad idea to become the only person who empties the president’s wallet.”

“How exciting!”

Song Hanna seemed to encourage Seong Jarim’s excitement instead of trying to calm her down. Kang Sejun was reflected in Seora’s eyes as she shook her head and promised that she should do the same. Unlike Seong Jarim, he had a dull-looking face.

‘What’s with that relaxed expression?’

Could it be that he had met the president before?

‘Well, judging from what I’ve heard, his past life was quite extraordinary.’

If he had lived such an extraordinary life and never met the president, that would be surprising in itself.

“We’re here. Get off.”

The restaurant was located in a tranquil and serene mountain setting. The chirping of birds and the creaking of winter branches added to the traditional Korean ambiance. Surrounding it were security personnel, wearing solemn expressions, stationed in all directions. They were members of the Presidential Security Service from the Blue House.

“It feels like someone dressed in hanbok should come out dancing, but instead, we have these serious-looking guys in sunglasses.”

“I’m the one wearing hanbok.”

At that moment, a dignified elderly woman appeared, dressed in a hanbok with a neat bun. She was the owner of this place.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m honored to welcome the heroes who saved the world.”

Seeing someone her age speaking in such a manner wasn’t familiar. Even Seora hastily bowed in response.

“Please come inside. The president is waiting.”

This place had a different atmosphere compared to the illegal residence of Baek Huiwon on Mount Taebek. While the latter felt like a wealthy mansion of a powerful figure, this place exuded the purity and integrity of a virtuous scholar’s home. In any case, it was a splendid mansion.

“Welcome. I’ve been waiting for you.”

President Jang Inhu was waiting alone in a room with one of its walls adorned with a large glass window. The view of the beautifully illuminated garden beyond the window was mesmerizing.

“Hello, Mr. President. I’m Yun Seora from the association’s Management Office.” Who would have thought that a low-ranking civil servant like her would be dining with the president? Life indeed holds unexpected surprises.

“I’m Kang Sejun.”

“It’s Seong Jarim! Nice to meetcha!”

All eyes turned to Seong Jarim. However, she seemed completely oblivious to the oddity and smiled warmly. Seora rubbed her forehead.

Oh no, this big sister... To be fair, she is much older than the president, so I can understand, but...

“Ahem. Our apologies. Seong Jarim has a bit of a... special circumstance...”

As Seora bowed to apologize, President Jang Inhu chuckled. “It’s alright. You can speak comfortably.”

“I’m relieved to hear that. The truth is, Seong Jarim spent 108 years in the dungeon. So, in many ways, her common sense is a bit, well... like that.”

As Seora continued speaking, Jang Inhu’s laughter abruptly stopped. It was the first time he had heard such a story, and he looked at Seong Jarim perplexedly. “...108 years?” His face seemed to say, “Could you please turn on your blinker when you change lanes?”