I Became an Illegal Cheat User

141 – Demon Slayer (5)

Wooosh──!!!

From the black sky, a light composed of immense divine power poured down to the earth.

And with the arrival of that light, the wave of death that had been surging forward came to a halt as if blocked by a wall.

No, it not only stopped but was pushed back in reverse.

As I watched that grand spectacle.

“Yujin!”

“Lee Yujin!”

“Lady Lee Yujin!”

Lee Seoyeon, Arthur, and Noah, who had been trying to block the wave of death with a determined look, called my name with voices full of relief as they rushed towards me.

“You all held on well.”

I said that while checking their condition.

Aside from a few torn clothes and a slight depletion of mana, divine power, and energy, they seemed to be alright.

At that realization, I let out a short sigh of relief and opened my inventory.

“It looks like you used all the potions, so take these new ones.”

I pulled out the potion cases I had distributed before entering the mist.

Of course, under normal circumstances, only items with the ability of the holy sword would be usable in this space filled with death.

But the place where my friends and I stood was not a land soaked in purple death, but a sacred ground where white divine power flowed like water.

In simpler terms, as long as we stood on the land flowing with divine power, the peculiarities of the death mist did not apply.

Without needing to say that fact, the three of them quickly understood and thanked me as they took the potion cases. They immediately opened the cases and restored their depleted mana, divine power, and energy.

I also activated the injector at my waist to recover my depleted mana. At the same time, I replenished the injector that had used up potions through transmission.

As we took a moment for recovery.

《What kind of creature are you!》

The demon lord, who had been wary of my sudden appearance, asked with a murderous intent.

But even to that question, I looked up at the sky without answering.

Perhaps my attitude was deeply unsettling.

《…This insignificant creature! How dare you ignore my words!》

The Demon King shouted with a voice full of indignation, raising his hand.

And he summoned the spear he had seen before, swirling with malice.

《With that vile spear, vanish along with everything!》

Had he infused it with even more power than the one he had just summoned?

The spear floating above the Demon King’s hand appeared thicker and larger. The malice also swirled with a fiercer intensity.

Once again, the Demon King aimed that spear at us. This time, he used the strength of his waist, putting all his might into it.

Pervong─, shwaaack──!!

With the sound of air exploding, a violet flash came flying toward us.

In response, Lee Seoyeon, Arthur, and Noah hurriedly summoned their energy. They tried to deploy their defensive skills to block the spear thrown by the Demon King.

“You don’t have to do that.”

I told them it was okay not to act.

“What do you mean…?”

At my words, the three of them momentarily wore puzzled expressions.

But before long, they seemed to understand why I was so calm, and they withdrew the energy they had been gathering.

《Ha, you fools! You all must be desperate to die!》

The Demon King showed a look of disbelief at our actions.

《Yes, die like the insects you are!》

However, soon after, as if he considered us to have given up, he burst into a frenzied laugh.

Even in the face of that derision, I remained unmoved.

After all, the spear thrown by the Demon King would never reach us.

As if to reward my faith.

Whaaa─!

The divine power pouring down from the sky emitted an even stronger light.

And at the same time.

Chaeaeaeaeaeaeaeaeeng──!!

The spear flying toward us was deflected in another direction by a white flash that fell from above. And with a loud crash! It lodged itself somewhere unexpected, causing an explosion.

《…What?!》

The Demon King lifted his head, a face full of confusion.

My friends and I also raised our heads to see the source of the white flash.

Woom, woom.

In the white sky where heaven poured down.

A resonant sound like energy reverberating filled the air. And that resonance gradually descended.

Before long, the entity that was emitting the resonance revealed itself.

〈It has been a long time since I have seen such courageous souls.〉

Wearing a helmet adorned with winged feathers.

With wings blazing like fire.

An angel of the red dawn.

〈It is a pleasure to meet you all. Those with fiery courage.〉

The angel introduced herself in a voice that was exceedingly welcoming as she descended from the sky toward us.

Especially when she looked at me, her eyes sparkled even more.

〈I am Solaris, the angel who governs courage.〉

The angel, Solaris, landed on the ground.

〈I send my praises for your glorious battle.〉

As Solaris said this, she reached out her hand toward a spear that lay beside her.

Then, with a swift motion, the spear returned to her grasp as if it knew where to go.

‘Oh, that’s pretty cool.’

Maybe I should find a weapon like that too.

It’s about time I started using other weapons besides guns; if I’m going to get one, I should look for one that returns to its user on its own.

Of course, with cheats and infinite items, it wouldn’t be a problem even without such a feature.

But it’s cool, so I want it.

While I was lost in such pointless thoughts.

〈It’s you, isn’t it? The one who summoned me.〉

Solaris, who had been staring at me intently, smiled and asked.

At her question, I nodded and pointed to the feathered spear.

“Solaris, I summoned you through the spear you used long ago.”

And just as I was about to say, please fight for us as the skill of the spear indicates.

〈Ah…〉

Suddenly, Solaris began to emit a sound filled with ecstasy.

I was taken aback by the sight.

My friends, who were watching the angel in fascination, also showed signs of surprise.

But regardless of that.

〈This summoning is truly an honor.〉

With a voice brimming with emotion, it approached me.

Then, without warning, it grasped my hand tightly, sending me a fiery gaze.

〈To think I could fight alongside the inheritor of the demon slayer, the one who brings an end to those filthy demons, with a brilliance unmatched.〉

Ah, so that was it?

No wonder it was so overwhelmed with emotion.

‘Well, of course.’

For angels, a demon slayer who tears demons apart must be someone extraordinary above all else.

Only now did I understand the angel’s unusual behavior.

And at the same time.

Before coming into reality, memories of my time in the mental realm surfaced.

&

&

&

Prove it.

I thought that phrase was a test.

Demon Slayer.

A trial to determine if I was worthy of possessing that dangerous talent.

But as it turned out, it was not the simple test I had imagined.

[Congratulations.]

[You have passed the trial of talent.]

Not a test, but a trial (試鍊).

[Talent, “Demon Slayer (S),” has recognized you.]

And recognition (認定).

[Talent, the “Demon Slayer (S)” evolves into “Demon Slayer (S+).” ]

The evolution that ensues.

The talent known as “Demon Slayer” was a stepping stone to transcend the human realm and ascend to the celestial.

“…….”

Ah, truly.

Words escape me.

Moreover, my mind, which usually functions smoothly, stutters as if caught in buffering.

‘…I never thought talent would evolve like this.’

No, it’s beyond not thinking; I was completely unaware.

Rank, or rather, tier.

To think that the chains bound by the laws of the world could be unraveled like this.

Of course, one could say that my current thoughts are constrained.

Since when has the world flowed in a fixed manner?

It must merely be a fixed notion born from the human mind.

Yet, it’s inevitable that restrictive thoughts arise before free-spirited ideas.

Seeing, hearing, learning, and remembering.

The theory of talent evolution imprinted in my mind through rote learning rather than understanding.

A phenomenon that occurs when the spirit and flesh are trained to their limits, expanding the vessel of the soul to its maximum.

Only after undergoing the process of endurance does one finally attain the miraculous result.

‘But… isn’t that correct?’

The phrases recorded in books and the education meant to convey them.

Though learned through rote, I honestly don’t think that’s wrong.

The essential conditions for evolving talent.

The highest tier.

The very edge that one can reach as a human.

At the same time, a stepping stone toward transcendence.

Because that’s not something just anyone can do or become.

As the tier rises, the transcendent who reaches the highest tier is presented with two choices.

To be satisfied with the present and give up any further ascent.

Or to confront their inner self for the sake of transcendence and beyond.

## Resignation and Progression.

Among the two choices, if you choose resignation, it ends at the highest tier.

You can no longer aspire to greater realms.

Literally, the choice of resignation determines your fate, severing all paths of growth.

That said, it’s not all drawbacks.

By giving up ascension, the whispers of talent also fade away.

The desires that once urged you to seek power.

At the same time, the gestures that compelled you to repeat erroneous choices cease.

But can that really be seen as a good thing?

In the end, talent has surrendered to its owner’s complacency.

On the other hand, the transcendent being who chooses transcendence must face trials of their talent, deeply rooted in their soul, from that moment onward.

The trials are nothing special.

No, that’s not right.

Rather, it can be said to be even more difficult because of that.

‘Understanding the essence.’

Essence, or the inner self.

An abstract concept that is not objective.

Yet, how can a human see their own unseen inner self?

…Or so it goes.

That applies to ordinary people, or in general cases.

For the transcendent being who wields skills and magic, known as extraordinary powers, it is difficult but not impossible to perceive their inner self.

And there are various methods to do so.

Hypnosis, possession, mental interference, and so on…

You can use the psychic abilities often portrayed in a negative light in comics or novels.

Or… like me, you can be consumed by the emotions of your talent, forcibly exiled within your own self.

Of course, that’s just an example; a transcendent being who has reached the highest tier doesn’t need to resort to such risky and inefficient methods. No, to be precise, they shouldn’t have to.

And it makes sense, as it marks the end of humanity and the limits of mortality.

To ascend to the highest tier, one must not only master the body and mind but also be able to contemplate their inner self.

In simple terms, it is a prerequisite for promotion.

Therefore, there’s no need to use complex and cumbersome methods, such as utilizing psychic abilities or seeking others’ help. In any case.

Enduring trials of talent for transcendence.

When one understands and accepts their essence through these trials.

Only then does talent evolve.

Trapped in the vessel of humanity, rooted in the spirit.

What once stirred and whispered the dormant evil within,

now becomes wholly one.

Roots dissolve and seep, expanding.

And not succumbing like a fallen one, nor merely conforming.

Body and soul, talent.

The three, a trinity in harmony.

It cannot be anything but a truly complex and difficult process.

But perhaps that is why the result is wondrous.

Yet still.

‘…Is it really okay for talent to evolve like this?’

A miracle that an ordinary person, or one who remains a commoner, could never achieve in a lifetime.

Such a miracle, obtained without the process of enduring hardship, only the result.

‘Normally, I would have rejoiced at this stroke of luck.’

But now, it feels nothing but perplexing.

It seems that what I have gained is far too great compared to the struggles endured.

This situation feels a bit, no…, a lot burdensome.

But such feelings are fleeting.

‘Well…, it should be fine.’

I quickly regained my usual pace.

‘It’s not like I intended for this to happen.’

Moreover, it’s not something I could control.

I nodded, murmuring, as I organized the tangled thoughts in my mind.

And I accepted the unexpected fortune, which felt somewhat uncomfortable, with a refreshing attitude.

Of course, I didn’t arrive at a neat solution.

Still, in a corner of my heart, questions like ‘Why? How come?’ linger as remnants.

Yet the reason I let it slide, like incomplete combustion, is…

“There’s no need to overthink something that’s not even a bad thing.”

Of course, I don’t want to feel a headache any longer, and I don’t want to nitpick the luck that benefits me.

And above all, it was significant to realize that the ‘evolution of talent’—its general theory—does not apply to me.

“I just remembered because I was so flustered.”

I had completely forgotten an important fact.

That I am not a person from this world, but a vessel. An irregular.

“Maybe I’ve gotten too used to this place; I often forget.”

That’s not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, I should say it’s a good thing.

I’ve become accustomed.

That means it’s proof that I’ve adapted well to this world.

But… could it be a problem that I’ve adapted too well?

Recently, the memories of my previous world feel distant, as if they belong to a long time ago.

Like a colored picture being painted over with new hues.

The memories I’ve gained here are overshadowing those of my previous world.

As a result, something feels off.

Yet, amusingly, that feeling is… not entirely bad.

“…Good? Overwhelming?”

Various emotions ripple within me.

It’s a mix of frustration and ticklishness, a warm energy that tickles my heart.

Hmm, what do you call this feeling?

“Ah.”

Yes.

That’s it.

Excitement.

Like returning home after being away.

It’s the thrill of nostalgia that comes from stepping back into my home after a long time.

But why?

Why do I suddenly feel this way?

I don’t know the reason.

What could have caused this feeling, this thought?

And why.

The photo I received from Gray.

Is it the faces of my parents in that photo that come to mind?

I truly don’t know the real reason.

‘Could it be that I was originally a person from this world?’

That can’t be true.

… I denied it, but.

‘Usually, when I think “could it be,” it often turns out to be true.’

In novels, comics, or games, it’s common for “could it be” to become “it really is.”

Because of that, I couldn’t simply dismiss it.

‘I had thought all this time that it was just a possession like in a story.’

But now, feeling these inexplicable emotions and thoughts, it seems it’s not just a simple possession.

‘… I’ll have to look into this seriously later.’

Even if I want to investigate right away, the situation isn’t favorable. The place is also another world.

As such, I’ll have to put this question off for now.

And…, it’s just a feeling, but.

‘… I think I could learn a lot if I go there.’

Without needing help from transcendent beings or searching for certain places, I have a sense that many of my curiosities will be resolved in one location.

During the summer break of the academy, during my internship.

The two items I obtained from the base of the 9th Subjugation Unit.

A note and a key.

To be precise, the note from my mother that simply said to go to the ‘Great Shrine’…, and the key that was marked as [Unknown] only after I placed it in a box.

Those were the two items, but especially the key.

I feel that it will resolve the questions I’m holding onto right now.

And furthermore, I think I might learn something important.

I decided to stop thinking any further, as if it were fate, with a strong premonition.

After all, if it’s as my premonition suggests, the questions will be resolved later.

Thinking deeply about it now would only give me a headache.

With that thought organized, I let out a long breath.

“Huuh….”

Breath, heated and alive, spreads through the purification filter attached to the helmet, like a white mist.

Creak, crack.

I clenched my fist. A fierce sound echoed, as if I were wearing leather gloves.

At the same time, I could see the air around my clenched hand distorting, as if it were rippling with heat.

As if Kang Cheol-soo were displaying his immense power.

Which means…

‘Right now, my strength is at the highest level.’

It hasn’t been long since I reached the upper tier, yet here I am, wielding top-tier power.

Of course, it’s not an increase in stats due to a rise in rank, but merely a boost from talent.

Still, being able to use top-tier strength before even becoming a second-year student is… quite wonderful.

‘Haha, this is something.’

I wished for something easy, but I didn’t expect it to be like this.

I chuckled as I repeatedly clenched and opened my fist.

With each motion, the rippling air around my hand shrank, expanded, and swayed.

But perhaps he couldn’t bear to watch my antics any longer.

“Don’t get too lost in that power.”

A voice filled with disdain came from the demon slayer, who had his arms crossed.

“I may have acknowledged it, but it’s a strength that can only be unleashed when killing demons.”

As he said this, he uncrossed his arms.

Then, he reached out and grasped the head of a demon, frozen like a statue nearby.

Crack!

As the demon slayer tightened his grip, the demon’s head burst under his tremendous strength.

At the same moment.

Swoosh…

The bodies of the demons, standing thick in the space around us, scattered like dust, turning to ash.

Then, the power that had been boiling like lava calmed down, as if it had never been so.

It was the original strength I possessed, returning to the upper tier.

‘Ah… I thought my talent had evolved and changed a bit.’

The activation condition of the demon slayer’s ability.

In battle against an ‘enemy,’ or when encountering ‘demonic or evil-type’ foes…

As the demon vanished, I could see my strength returning to its original state. It seemed that only the stat increase had changed, while the activation conditions remained the same.

With that realization, I clicked my tongue, briefly expressing my disappointment.

Then, the Demon Slayer approached and spoke.

“You don’t need to be so disheartened. When it comes to killing demons, you wield a power stronger than any other ability.”

“…I know that too.”

“Then, Lee Yu-jin, what is it that you find so regrettable?”

“…….”

It’s the power to tear demons apart; what more could I need?

I had no words to respond to that question laden with meaning.

‘…That statement is indeed correct.’

The Demon Slayer, true to the name of their talent.

When facing demons or those tainted by evil, it should be sufficient to unleash that power.

So, wishing for anything beyond that would be nothing but greed.

I let out a short sigh once more, shaking off the lingering disappointment within me.

If I were to hold onto this regret any longer, it would be foolishness, bordering on rudeness to the Demon Slayer who had acknowledged me.

Was that how I appeared to them, then?

The Demon Slayer, who had been staring at me intently, let out a hum and crossed their arms again.

“You’re quick to control your emotions.”

I like that, the Demon Slayer added, flicking their right index finger.

“But no matter how skilled you are at controlling your emotions, there will still be remnants left in your heart, not resolved.”

Their finger, which had been flicking in a steady rhythm, suddenly came to a halt.

“Therefore, I will help you resolve it cleanly.”

The moment they finished speaking, the ash that had been floating in the air like dust began to fall. It started to revert to its form before it became ash, as if reversing time.

Amidst that phenomenon, the Demon Slayer uncrossed their arms.

And then.

Thud, thud.

Suddenly, they began to loosen their fists.

Feeling a sense of unease from that action, I asked the Demon Slayer, half in disbelief.

“…You’re not planning to attack me alongside the demons, are you?”

Ah, no way.

It really can’t be.

“Don’t worry. I won’t be teaming up with the devil.”

Phew, that’s a relief.

So it wasn’t that after all.

I let out a sigh of relief.

‘…No, wait a minute.’

Something about this feels off.

“You said you won’t be… teaming up?”

“That’s right.”

The devil slayer nodded and took a step forward.

At that moment.

KWA-aaahhh─!!

An overwhelming, unprecedented power erupted from the devil slayer.

“…Gah!”

A tremendous pressure bore down on me.

It felt as if the sky had collapsed.

The devil slayer approached me, step by step, and said,

“Whether it’s a devil or my junior, I’ll treat them the same.”

And on that note.

“As a senior devil slayer, I will impart my teachings to you.”

He would personally show me how to wield this power.

Through the visor of the devil slayer’s helmet, a red glow of solidified malice scattered like embers.

Faced with that menacing sight, I let out a nervous laugh and took a hesitant step back.

“…You’re not trying to kill me, right? You’re just going to teach me, right?”

In response to my question, the devil slayer fiddled with a shotgun that I couldn’t tell where or when he had pulled it from.

“It’s fine. While this is my space, overall, it’s your mental world, so even if you die, you’ll come back to life.”

“Ah, well that’s a relief… No, wait, that’s not right!”

So you’re saying I’m going to die!

I shouted, filled with that meaning.

Let me know if you need anything else!

“Don’t you want to die? Then approach this with a mindset of survival.”

I gripped the shotgun’s loading handle, speaking as if simply not dying was enough.

And then, click! The sound of a shell being loaded echoed.

Bang─!

The demon slayer’s shotgun roared to life.