The Player Who Can't Level Up

Gabinji15-19 minutes 25.07.2022

“You will be coming to the Global Players Association (GPA) meeting with me,” Tae-Shik explained with a grave expression.  

“The Global Players Association meeting?” asked Gi-Gyu. 

“That’s right. Let me summarize our current situation: Five exceptional gates simultaneously appeared in our country; we know nothing much about them because we can’t send in scouts. The one thing we do know is that they are all S-Class or higher—that’s not something we can handle alone.” When Tae-Shik answered, Gi-Gyu nodded.

Historically speaking, a single S-Class gate could shake the entire world. The one that appeared in America sometime back was a good case in point. Now, the world had 20 gates, S-Class at the least, so the GPA’s emergency meeting made perfect sense. 

Tae-Shik continued, “So, the Global Players Association called for an emergency meeting. This time, most of the influential countries will be attending it in the US. Apart from this recent gate event, the panel will also discuss the general direction of the player world.” 

This was the Global Players Association they were talking about, so Gi-Gyu understood that its decision could influence the world. But he couldn’t understand one thing. “And why would I be attending this meeting with you? I mean… With all the rumors floating around about you being the next KPA president, I can understand why you're going. But what’s the point in taking me along?” 

Oh Tae-Shik, son of the current KPA president and high ranker Asura, code-named Behemoth, would feel right at home at that important meeting. But what about Gi-Gyu?

It wasn’t that Gi-Gyu didn’t want to attend this meeting. After all, he could use it to gather lots of useful information. However, he was not a notable figure at the moment. Instead, Lee Sun-Ho attending this meeting would’ve made more sense. Or, since Lee Sun-Ho didn’t have an amicable relationship with the KPA, perhaps the guild master of any one of Korea’s top ten guilds. 

“Well, I guess it’s to show the world that we have dibs on you. Anyway, I’ll explain it on our way. We don’t have the time right now,” answered Tae-Shik.

“Pardon?”

Tae-Shik stretched his arms and announced, “We need to go right now, dude.”

Gi-Gyu stared at Tae-Shik and gaped. But quickly, he shook his head. He understood Tae-Shik’s haste since they had no time and decided to act despite the unexpected turn of events.

Gi-Gyu asked, “So are we going to the Tower?” 

Back when Gi-Gyu was in the Maze of Heryond, he learned that the Tower had secret portals that led to different regions of the world. If they used them, they could shorten their travel to the US. 

“Haaah… No.” The long yawn was another telltale sign of Tae-Shik’s fatigue. “We’ll be flying this time.”

***

It didn’t matter if attending this meeting was a request from Tae-Shik or Tae-Gu. What mattered was that it wasn’t an order. Gi-Gyu knew he wasn’t obligated to go, but he wanted to because he was interested. Most of all, what Tae-Shik said to entice him worked. 

“I heard Ironshield is coming too.” When Tae-Shik announced, Gi-Gyu immediately agreed. For his dream of destroying Ironshield to come to fruition, he first had to learn how big was the gap between their current strengths. He had become much stronger, but was that enough to battle Ironshield? 

This meeting would be the perfect opportunity to check gauge Ironshield. 

“Please wear this.” When Sung-Hoon handed him an outfit, Gi-Gyu frowned and asked, “Is this really necessary?” 

Gi-Gyu wasn’t referring to the clothes Sung-Hoon brought. What annoyed him was that they were taking an airplane. The country was in a dire situation, so why were they using such a slow and inconvenient travel method? 

Looking confused, Sung-Hoon asked, “Didn’t General Manager Oh Tae-Shik explain things to you?” 

Before Gi-Gyu could answer, Sung-Hoon continued, “Just put these on first. Perhaps General Manager Oh Tae-Shik is trying to teach you something, Ranker Kim Gi-Gyu. With how rushed things are, he probably didn’t have the time to explain properly.”

Putting on the clothes Sung-Hoon handed him, Gi-Gyu asked, “Trying to teach me something?”

“Why do you think you need to make such a dramatic appearance?” asked Sung-Hoon. Gi-Gyu had been wondering the same thing. Given Korea's dire straits, they should be spending every second getting the gates under control, so why waste time traveling on an airplane? Especially bizarre was how the association openly told the Korean public about this meeting. 

“Ah!” Suddenly, Gi-Gyu exclaimed. 

“Huh? Did you figure it out?” Sung-Hoon smiled. 

“Is it to make sure everyone in Korea knows that we’re attending the Global Players Association meeting?”

Clap.

Sung-Hoon clapped and replied, “Exactly. Our non-players are currently more terrified than our players, so we want to calm them by showing that we are doing everything we can to safeguard our country. Publicizing our attendance does exactly that. And that's just the first reason.” 

“First reason? There’s more?” asked Gi-Gyu.

Sung-Hoon handed him a tie with a smile. He tried to put it on but failed since he had never worn one before. He couldn’t figure it out on his own, so Sung-Hoon helped him. 

Sung-Hoon answered, “The second reason has something to do with you. You have been doing well hiding your identity until now. Still, there is no doubt that the Global Players Association (GPA) and the other powerful groups are aware of your existence. They have likely been monitoring your growth, Ranker Kim Gi-Gyu.”

“Me?”

“Yes. It makes perfect sense that you’re receiving much attention. After all, you’re Lucifer’s designated heir. You have also confronted Ironshield and had a meaningful meeting with Lee Sun-Ho. Anyone powerful enough can at least gather this much about you,” Sung-Hoon explained.

With a nod, Gi-Gyu replied, “I see. So by taking me, a player with great potential, to the GPA meeting, you’re revealing my identity to the public. You’re also telling the non-players that I belong to the KPA. Once the public realizes that a ranker with such potential is in their midst, their fear will decrease…?”

Gi-Gyu knew he didn’t do a good job explaining his thoughts, but all that mattered was that he now had a decent understanding of the situation. Sung-Hoon was in the middle of tying his tie when his eyes widened. “Uwaah… Ranker Kim Gi-Gyu, I thought you were stupid… I mean, I always thought you weren’t the sharpest tool in the box, but you’re smarter than I thought!” 

“No one has ever called me stupi—” Gi-Gyu muttered, but Lou interrupted him,

-Idiot. Didn’t I tell you this over and over again before? How are you not stupid for not realizing why they are taking you to this meeting immediately?

El protested, 

-Lou! How could you be so rude to the master!

-But what about you? You couldn’t have thought he was smart either. 

-...

That hurt. Did El think he was stupid too? Gi-Gyu was getting annoyed when Brunheart chimed in to make things even worse.

-But I love how stupid our master is! He’s just like me!

Lou chuckled,

-Keke!!!

El sighed and murmured,

-Haa… Brunheart, you can’t say things like that about our master.

Finally, Gi-Gyu shouted, “Shut up! All of you!” 

Sung-Hoon stared at him in surprise but remained silent after realizing what was happening. After a while, Sung-Hoon said, “And the last reason is the government’s request. The association is sensitive to the public’s sentiment, but not as much as the Korean government. You must know that the government yields a lot to the association, right? In return, KPA also provides a lot to the government. Wow, by the way, this is perfect. Look at you! I think this will work out better than I expected.”

Gi-Gyu turned toward the full-body mirror. He now wore an elegant charcoal suit, which fit him perfectly and looked amazing thanks to his height. At first, he feared that his Egos in their accessory forms might look odd with the suit, but they just enhanced his look. And, of course, his improved appearance from the elixir didn’t hurt either. 

Gi-Gyu asked, “Do I look okay?” He looked at Sung-Hoon hesitantly despite knowing he looked great. 

“My, my… Those government head honchos will love this.” Sung-Hoon grinned and took a step back. They had wasted enough time; now, it was time to head out.

***

It had only been a few hours since the KPA announced it would be sending representatives to the GPA meeting, but the airport was already crowded with people wanting to see Tae-Shik and Gi-Gyu. There wasn’t any backdrop for photos like at an award ceremony, but… 

The cameras flashed everywhere constantly. 

Click, click, click, click!

The reporters shouted their questions.

“Who is that player attending the meeting with you, General Manager Oh Tae-Shik? Is he a new ranker?”

“Is the purpose of this meeting to come up with a solution to our current situation?”

“Do we need help from other countries?”

“There are people who claim it’s the end of the world! Can you provide a word of reassurance to these people?”

Gi-Gyu’s eyes and ears hurt from the blinding camera flashes and the reporters’ questions. One of the reporters suddenly muttered, “Huh? That man looks very familiar!” 

Another reporter exclaimed, “Hey! Isn’t that the weirdo who appeared in Gangnam not too long ago?” 

One of the cameramen shook his head and replied, “No way. His face looks different.”

“You think so?” the first reporter murmured hesitantly. 

One non-player onlooker commented, “By the way, he looks hot. Is this a movie premiere or something?” 

Gi-Gyu found it hard to focus, but he ignored everyone and quietly walked. He decided to reveal his identity, so he was prepared to endure. His group continued to walk until they reached the space created for the interview. 

Tae-Shik walked up to the reporters, opened his mouth slowly, and announced, “At this upcoming meeting, there will be a discussion about the recent event. A thorough investigation will be carried out, and we will discuss a solution for these new exceptional gates, so the public should have no fear. Even as we speak, the many talented players we hired are trying to get a handle on this situation.” 

Tae-Shik’s voice was strong, and his words were concise and blunt. Everyone at the airport remained quiet and concentrated on him. 

‘He’s using his magic.’ Gi-Gyu realized Tae-Shik was using his aura to attract everyone’s attention. It was a common tactic the tankers used, but strong people like Tae-Shik could use it regardless of their player’s category.

“And this player over here”—Tae-Shik suddenly placed his hand on Gi-Gyu’s shoulder—“has the potential to become a high ranker. We believe he may someday lead the Korean player world.”

Many exclaimed in excitement, “A high ranker?!” 

One of the reporters raised his hand and asked, “Is he the one who became a ranker recently?”

With a faint smile, Tae-Shik replied, “Yes. He’s the one.” 

“Oh my god! It hasn’t been long since he became a ranker, but he is already on his way to becoming a high ranker?!!! What monstrous talent!” 

The reporters murmured among themselves. The area became hectic again, but Tae-Shik’s magic made a quick sweep to quiet down everyone. His magic was warm yet cold. 

Tae-Shik continued, “He has already been given a code name.”

An expectant silence fell as Tae-Shik declared with a grin, “His name is Morningstar. Everyone will know his name in Korea, and soon, the entire world!”

“Morningstar!” the reporters exclaimed. 

Click, click, click, click, click!

Click, click, click, click, click!

The camera flashes went off again as numerous questions were thrown toward Gi-Gyu. However, just like Tae-Shik, he silently walked away.  

After walking for who knew how long, Gi-Gyu found no non-players or reporters surrounding them. He could feel the player paparazzi waiting nearby, but Tae-Shik told him to leave them alone. 

Bzzzz.

Bzzzzz.

Gi-Gyu’s phone suddenly vibrated, it was a call from Yoo-Jung. He had already told his family that he was going on a business trip abroad. So, something urgent must have happened for her to call like this. When Gi-Gyu quickly answered the phone, Yoo-Jung yelled,

-Oppa!

“What’s wrong, Yoo-Jung? Did something happen?!” Gi-Gyu asked tensely. He ensured his family was well protected, so why… It wasn’t only the association agents who guarded his house but also Old Man Hwang. 

-You should’ve told me you’ll be on TV. I would’ve told all of my friends to watch it! Anyway, stay safe! Mom told me to tell you she loves you! I love you too! Bye!

“What?”

-Oh! And I told you about what to do when you get on the plane, right? Don’t forget! You need to follow the proper plane etiquette! Anyway, gotta go.

“You’ve never been on a plane either, so how would you know?” asked Gi-Gyu.

-My friends told me, so I know more than you! Trust me!

“Fine. Don’t worry,” Gi-Gyu reassured her. 

-Perfect! Have a safe trip!

“Okay! See you later.” Gi-Gyu grinned and hung up. Tae-Shik must have heard their conversation because he smiled and patted his back. 

Tae-Shik announced, “Let’s go now.” 

Finally, it was time for Gi-Gyu to board the plane, something he was doing for the first time.  

They were taking the KPA’s private jet. Gi-Gyu found it amazing that his first time flying was in a private jet. He felt proud that he had become important enough to be here. He had always thought physical power was all he needed. But today, he realized the advantages the rise in his status could give him.

Noticing Gi-Gyu’s look of awe, Tae-Shik grinned and asked, “Are you enjoying this?”

“It’s not a bad feeling. I’m beginning to wonder why I ever tried to hide my identity.” 

“Haha.” Tae-Shik laughed. 

Today, Gi-Gyu made his first introduction to the world; consequently, much would change for him. Not too long before these new exceptional gates appeared, Tae-Shik heard that the US government was planning on making a move on Gi-Gyu. He knew Gi-Gyu would refuse the offer, but he still couldn’t help feeling angry. Now that KPA has publicly put dibs on Gi-Gyu, no one would dare to take him away. 

‘The government is satisfied with our move. With Morningstar’s presence, the Korean public will feel safer too,’ Tae-Shik thought as he closed his eyes. He knew KPA used Gi-Gyu for their convenience, but it was okay since Gi-Gyu agreed to it. He was also relieved to see Gi-Gyu taking these changes in stride.  

‘And most of all, this will be a good thing for me too,’ Tae-Shik thought in satisfaction. Kim Gi-Gyu—a powerful newcomer in the player’s world with a close relationship with General Manager Oh Tae-Shik. That was what today’s interview told everyone. 

Just this interview made Gi-Gyu influential enough to attend the GPA meeting. For Tae-Shik, who was after the KPA president position and perhaps something even higher in the future, Gi-Gyu would be a great help. With this thought, he couldn’t help but smile again. 

All he needed now was a positive response in the GPA meeting. The scouts should also have their gate reports ready by the time they return from this meeting. So, if this new situation were resolved, everything would work out. 

‘And besides, even if something happens, we have the Grigory.’ Tae-Shik reassured himself with this thought. He believed that Korea would remain safe with the soldiers he and his father trained. 

The rest of the world had no idea how many beasts lived in Korea. Tae-Shik opened his eyes and turned toward Gi-Gyu. He would accomplish many things in the future, and Gi-Gyu would be a big part of it. 

“You…” Tae-Shik was gazing at Gi-Gyu with pride when he suddenly gaped in shock.

Gi-Gyu asked, “What’s wrong?”

Clicking his tongue, Tae-Shik asked, “What are you doing?”

They had just passed the hallway and were at the jet’s entrance. To Tae-Shik’s confusion, Gi-Gyu had taken off his shoes and socks and placed them neatly at the side. 

Gi-Gyu did not answer.

“Ack! I asked you what you’re doing!” When Tae-Shik asked again, Gi-Gyu replied, “Yoo-Jung said this is proper plane etiquette.”

This left Tae-Shik speechless and wondering, ‘Perhaps he isn’t the sharpest knife in the drawer.’