“I like this country, but not its citizens.”
“…..Okay.”
The attack on Sadako in Japan.
The aim was to take Sadako’s “item” as a hostage to claim ownership of the 【Mysterious Tower】.
Up to that point, it didn’t matter. The fact that the Legendary Class [Six Legged Beast] was organizing and mobilizing meant it was a significant matter.
Even the King of Authority laughed it off, saying it was not worth worrying about the guys who fled after failing to beat his daughter in a 1:4 fight.
But among the assailants, they discovered the 【Second-generation】 who held the Legendary Class of 『Three Armies Naval Commander』.
Information about the Legendary Class that should be in South Korea was somewhat obtained.
It was just that it had never appeared in South Korea before.
It is the position held by the most honorable hero, General Yi Sun-sin, who fought to protect Joseon.
The investigation into the safety of the “Korean” who held the position commanding the naval forces quickly ended.
“I still vividly remember that day. Those who left a country rejecting Climbers. I couldn’t blame them for their sentiments. However─”
Many left South Korea.
Some returned, moved by the Korean Association President’s relentless efforts.
Ultimately, many Climbers came back to try their trust again, compelled by the unyielding warrior spirit of the President, showing as a hero who supports the nation out of love for his country.
As the former president, known as Iron Man, started leading Korean politics, the country began to stabilize on a precarious tightrope.
“Why fight for a doomed country, you said.”
While putting it mildly, seeing him fighting monsters emerging from collapsed towers during his diplomatic missions to seek support from Russia, China, South Korea, and the United States─ Climbers of Korean origin remarked as such.
The offers of money were decent, and the treatment wasn’t bad, as they tried to seduce them with sweet words to join their ranks.
The more heroes were emphasized, the more those unable to endure and who fled experienced shame and humiliation, fearing disgrace.
However, those who tried vilifying, criticizing, and disparaging, among them dislike how those who act important.
Even using derogatory terms like government lackeys while picking fights.
Among such contempt, while becoming the Association President, some realized standing in this position, overlooking many things fought intensely and mindlessly.
“─Many say patriotism is meaningless. …..But isn’t it where my parents lived and where I lived for half my life?”
Really, it was close to lingering attachment and obsession. The Association President said with a sad expression.
But only for a moment.
The current South Korea now sees a steep increase of Climbers, becoming one of the strongest alliances, in just a year shifting from the weakest state comparable to other great powers.
Many say South Korea is the leader of the alliance, but the President knows Wakamou Inarizushi aims for equality.
Treats no one as unique, fostering mutually cooperative and supportive relationships.
Perhaps the most challenging and demanding task.
“I can’t even fathom what kind of mindset that is.”
The resolve to leave for those living the present at any time, forgiveness considering betrayal as a given, and pure love for people.
All of those might be what established the miraculous form now.
In Russia, Architects are trained and facilities installed to effectively use vast lands.
In China, raising an [Emperor] capturing the Premier’s heart by establishing the [Glory of the Idol].
Though it’s still a while for Japan─ there surely is a sad memory related to Kyoto. Being a special place likely led to building the [Idol’s Shrine].
“South Korea has become a major power. Once opposing countries now, forgetting past grudges united as one massive coalition.”
Thus, with much discontent from Yakuza, far-right and anti-Korean forces protesting, some Korean Climbers driven out and unable to return were falling into [Guardians].
There were numerous chances to return.
Although victims once, now they simply stood as disruptive cancer to the alliance.
There was hardly time to think about revenge within those bustling 11 years.
How joyful to now stand in a position to laugh at those who deserted.
“There are Koreans who crossed borders following Climbers, seeking refuge abroad.”
“…..You’ve been sending information to family abroad steadily while working for the Climber Association.”
“And this Korean who attacked Sadako is likely a family member of a deserter.”
“Sigh…..”
How could the most troublesome enemies be compatriots at a moment of emerging peace?
On the Japanese side, [Six Legged Beast] and [Guardians] were active with support behind the scenes.
Yet here, a legitimate [Inari Fox Deity] in Kyoto’s Inari Shrine appeared as a candidate.
A being holding both undeniable “legitimacy” and “symbolism.”
When she becomes Prime Minister, the benefits overwhelmingly outweigh, and it’s impossible with Asuka preventing assassination.
Even if one bypasses Asuka, considering Wakamou Inarizushi, there’s no need to worry about the Inari Fox Deity’s strength.
Maybe worry about not killing too excessively.
“It’s fortunate the attacked party is robust.”
“Jahahaha!! Isn’t it amazing, the power of the [Skill] the boss gave me!! Damn you, boss!! For such a precious [Skill] to me!!!”
Laughing merrily, despite having holes bored through her body, Sadako healed after drinking.
She lamented not being able to properly use the [Skills] and [Items] gained after clearing Kyoto’s 100-floor tower.
Climbers grow stronger ascending the tower, how much stronger for those receiving 200-fold rewards?
“Nothing much happened, right!! So, where is our boss?”
“Moved instantly upon hearing of the attack. Pursuing the [Guardians].”
“Who with?”
“Uh─ went alone, let’s say”
“To where….?”
The Association President, staring into the distance, didn’t answer Sadako’s question.
He just chuckled, suggesting Wakamou prepare to be scolded for moving alone with the intent to draw attention upon return.
Sadako sweated nervously, claiming she’d be forgiven for what she discovered, but knew she wouldn’t drink alcohol for days.
Following the tower’s appearance, some left their nation, ending in complicated, pitiable situations as Korean Climbers.
Though envied for access to [Wakamou 1st Floor] and benefits, many who could not were criminals or Climbers who forsook Korea for foreign lands.
Ten years after the tower appeared, a 10-year-old would now be 20.
Learning under their parents, or those unworthy of being called as such.
Or, immersing oneself in misguided beliefs or delusions─what then?
Engaged in all manner of inhumane acts experimenting to create the new human race, 『Climbers』.
『Tower』 eternally equitable, endlessly offering to humanity, yet issues with towers inevitably humanity’s doing.
“So the employment of 【Second-generation】s through the government proceeds smoothly?”
“Yes, naturally. Now, without significant Companions like Italy or England. We must establish our own district similar to Mojon’s ‘Martial World’ in China.”
South Korea can artificially create Climbers. Standing on overwhelmingly advantageous grounds in numbers, every nation pursued numerous experiments to awaken people as Climbers.
Even having Climber institutions indicates as such. The point is not to drive extremes.
In Germany, two civil servants assisted [Engineers] in creating Climbers, training aspirants against [Monsters] to hone [Skills].
─Moreover, with Russia proving humans could transform into [Monsters], ventures exploring uncharted realms persisted.
Studies demonstrated humans could fully transform with [Skills] like Werebeasts, Druids, and Shifters.
Including limitless possibilities shown by Mare Pirate, a Climber VTuber.
[Manas] seemed─a product of miracles.
As scientists, necessary to analyze, interpreting for humanity’s benefit.
Click.
Then a turning door handle was heard.
“Hey, who’s visiting at this hour──”
“Suddenly, excuse me.”
Emerging was a beauty in black hair and an office-like outfit, giving off an aura of elegance and mysterious charm with glasses over closed eyes. However─even ordinary people could sense an overwhelming intimidation.
Just making eye contact brought breathless pressure….
“I’m the secretary of the Korean Climber Association.”
“Iiii….”
The civil servant barely contained terror. Suppressed the urge for panic with horror.
The superhuman before his eyes would quickly eradicate the two present faster than blinking an eye.
That much….filling the room with such vigor. If the energy were a bit stronger, oxygen might deplete, suffocating to death.
“I’m here to see Engineer Meyer Hildegard.”
Climbing association secretary’s implausible rank, claiming to be dispatched from South Korea.
Already, the current state between South Korea and Germany was strained. Any visits would come forewarned.
“Uu…understood….imm, immediately….guide….”
Everything from identification to passports, including the access ID card for interior entry, was forged.
There was never any intent to deceive, apparent at first glance. Yet……
──If a golden-masked predator crushes a car beneath its feet, tweaks someone it dislikes─would one dare confront engulfed in burning righteousness?
With certain fatality clasped in righteous fury. Merely foolish bravado in vain.
A guaranteed death.
Guiding the monstrous being towards Germany’s most crucial person with one’s own volition and dread, the guarding officer barely gripping his consciousness led the secretary onward to the laboratory’s front.
Ziiing─
A counterfeit card unrecognizable.
The guard himself opened the door, guiding an unannounced visitor to the venturing depths.
As [Engineer] and her subordinate researchers collectively focused on the entrance, seeing only an isolated guard.
While feeling puzzled about nothing at the entrance.
“Hello, Meyer Hildegard”
A voice spoke from her back.
Not a trace of presence was felt. The security system made no response. All defense turrets for anti-assassin measures were utterly smashed.
Soundlessly, exceeding human perception speed.
Supernaturally faster than even machines could recognize or react, a warm hand rested on the engineer’s shoulder, long dark hair veiling her view.
“I’m Wakamou Inarizushi.”
“Wha….wha…how…?”
How did you arrive here…?
Position already tracked through Asuka, masking with [Idol’s Form] illusion, moving through terrain with [Idol’s Substance].
From there, an uninterrupted path.
Strongly releasing recklessly emitted Mana alone caused non-Climber researchers to roll their eyes and faint on the spot.
“Th…this…is an international…problem…issue…”
The Engineer, unable to utter properly under fear, wet herself under the oppressive aura emitted by Wakamou.
The hand on the shoulder could, at any moment, shred the engineer to pieces.
It would have been so.
The more terrifying thing─ was the possibility of not being killed but being stuffed.
“Hey, Hildegard. Why do you think I came?”
“Th..because of the 【Final Battalion】 in the polar region…? Or─ the Gazers hiding underground in the French catacombs?! Pl-Please! I’ll tell you everything I know, have mercy…!!”
‘…..Is that for real..?’
No, Robert, my friend. You said it was all a conspiracy.
Why is everything you said true?
“We’re chasing a South Korean who fled with confidential information from our country. How much do you know?”
“Th…..”
The engineer’s eyes darted around. “If you don’t answer quickly, I’ll send you to an artist by delivery,” I whispered, and he began to shake as if having a seizure.
“The Vatican!! They, they went to Italy!! We’re also… just trying to verify some leaks from that research….”
“Stop it.”
SDVIMVFoanVzY1YwSVhjamMzUkt1Uk1oK0sya3NRU1YxcUQyKzVnbkpjMVNScFRtSmQxWXlTclNENnhIMXdkTA
“Okay.”
Lightly tapping the engineer’s shoulder, Wakamou thought, even though he wasn’t too fond of him and had many grudges… he was the one who prepared the broadcast material, and thanks to him, he even recruited Adolf Lucia, so he decided to let it slide once, patting his head.
Adelheid has a growing taste for collecting humans, and if you’re taken, you might not end up in a good shape.
“I’ll forgive you. There’s a saying in the Orient that even the Buddha has to smile thrice─”
Meanwhile, it seemed that Germany was conducting inhumane experiments to artificially create Climbers.
If Adelheid knew, she’d probably shout “This means war!!” and urge to go fight.
Although Climbers were special beings……
‘Speaking of which, is it the Martial Arts Forest?’
It was a place where even Liu Wei couldn’t get a detailed grasp, and Aoi Asuka knew nothing about.
But given the [Engineer] knew about it, places like this weren’t just rare occurrences.
‘So South Korea was really in a bad state’
China had its Martial Arts Forest, Japan its Shaman groups, and Russia had human experimentation……all sorts of things existed everywhere.
Even if South Korea increased Climbers, the information kept leaking, so experiments like these couldn’t even start.
What should I do about our Korean Tower, this fool?
It’s okay to be stupid as long as you’re kind…yeah….
※※※
[Mujon(武尊)] Yao Fang was a selfish human.
The moment China fell into disarray, he switched to a Legendary Class, subjugating many with sheer force, seizing many things, and causing further chaos─in a place where outsiders could hardly reach, he brought children with aptitude and talent through [Skill] to raise.
If they became [Climbers], it was a success; if not, then they were used as opponents or subordinates for growth.
That place, isolated and hidden from the external world, including the Chinese government with the emergence of the Tower, was a hell known as 【Martial Arts Forest】.
Unless one was special and talented, survival was impossible. If you weren’t strong, death was natural.
Losing parents at a young age, being sold off by parents, or parents being murdered.
Surviving in that hell where even escape was impossible was perhaps merely because one didn’t wish to die.
Painful and difficult, some gave up, lost hope and broke down, or were abandoned due to lack of talent even with effort.
As the children they lived with started dwindling one by one, with no one to rely on but themselves, they were made to fight endlessly to grow strong.
You had to be special; you couldn’t afford to not be special.
It was beyond feeling hollow or festering.
From a young age, they were forced to learn with their bodies that only the strong survive, and the weak perish.
Driven solely by the resolve to seek revenge against 【Mujon】, who pursued [Climbers] and [Power], gathering followers, subordinates, and a grand force.
With the establishment of Liu Wei’s 【New Chinese Government】, Mujon’s obsession to seize that position began.
Xiao Liang, leading those who escaped, killed the boss of the 【Dark Society】 and seized the position.
All they learned was wielding power, and with that power, they vowed for revenge.
They planned to announce their presence as 【someone special】, as a ruler of the dark underworld hardened by malice and hatred to the Emperor and the general who Mujon often mentioned.
…….There seemed to really be a [miracle] that those deceased and executed comrades, who couldn’t become Climbers, used to speak of.
It wasn’t an illusion, but I was indeed special.
It was natural, as Mujon recognized this [talent] and took me in, yet my remarkable abilities had often invoked resentment.
If one is this special, there’s not much left to say.
“No VTuber No Karate!! Ordinary people who couldn’t even beat Mei Xiao Long Bao, the weakest amongst VTubers, could never defeat VTubers!!”
“What on earth is a VTuber?”
“Xiao Liang, let me tell you─Otaku, are weak to symmetrical relationships. No, Otaku are just weak!!”
If Our Empress called her name and said thank you for coming, Mei figured she’d faint right there from shock!!
Wakamou calls this the VTuber Reality Shock.
When your Oshi calls your name or responds to you, you immediately faint, and if the brilliance and radiance of a VTuber are excessive, they could really die from a mental shock.
“If you want to kill me, kill me with VTuber love…!!”
Watching Mei spout difficult jargon, Xiao Liang, thinking ancestors must use difficult words, listened attentively with a polite posture.
When she carefully shared a bit of her past story, she offered to give a bus ride and [Portal]-jacked into the layer where Xiao Liang was!!
And now comes a very straightforward strategy act.
“Hi-yah─!!”
“Kyaaa!!!”
Ghost Jiangshis with spears and swords on the 73rd floor charge all at once.
They wielded sharp swords and spears in unison, breathing perfectly in harmony with the drill, truly masters!
And standing alone against six Jiangshis was Mei Xiao Long Bao, an even greater master.
Swinging the three-section staff, emerging from her tail, in a splendid manner, deflecting the flying spears and pushing away the swords.
‘I can tell─this is Taijiquan….far superior to Mujon’s mastery!’
Utilizing the spine, leveraging the body’s centrifugal and elastic forces, initiating the centripetal force creating an arc, diverting the attack, and thrusting into the momentum.
‘But is she going easy?’
Why is she fighting so lackadaisically? Xiao Liang wondered briefly.
A few basic moves.
Easy to understand, hence the completion is high, sharp, and threatening martial arts.
[Skill[Ran Naza(攔拿扎)] acquired!]
The rotation from arms, legs, and waist passing through the wrist, extending with the three-section staff, swirling sharply.
Blocking and pushing outward, Ran(攔).
Drawing the spear inward to entangle, Na(拿).
Finally, as they closed in, lightning-like counterattacks piercing, Zha(扎).
‘Taijiquan with Ran Naza─!’
With [Xu Ling Taiji Divine Fist(虛靈太極神拳)], mastered [Ran Naza(攔拿扎)], Mei utilized the basic spear technique.
[Skill[Taiji Spear(太極槍)] acquired!]
“Eh? That’s not it?”
Executing a perfect circle, impeccably repelling the combined attack of six with the three-section staff like an extension of her own body, constantly in flow with an ultimate display, Mei furrowed her brows dissatisfied.
“From here is the right spot?”
It was a scene beyond comprehensible understanding. A completely different spear technique from what had been shown so far was used.
Xiao Liang stood there, baffled, unable to understand even by watching.
The endless change, innumerable and incomparable sharp movements swept through.
Constantly interspersed false strokes and true thrusts, swift like the wind while maintaining grand momentum─ once the upper hand was seized, the climactic breakthrough left six Jiangshis unable to cope and sent them sprawling.
“Yang Family Spear Technique!”
[Skill [Yang Family Spear Method(楊家槍法)] acquired!]
“Oh, so that’s the name?”
Xiao Liang hoped the ancestor was merely joking. It had reached a point beyond suppressing his own uniqueness, to the sense of being insignificant.
Confronting the opponents, witnessing their techniques, understanding and mastering them.
The Jiangshis used Qi instead of Mana, which was a drawback, but it was akin to it anyway.
“Mana, the more I come to know, the more convoluted it seems.”
Having been constantly surrounded by six, Mei showed a relaxed air, leisurely observing and analyzing.
‘Though I learned it from Professor, they said with [Sage], once understanding is reached, [Skill] can be employed. Being an [Idol] means you can learn anything, it’s truly advantageous.’
It was self-evident but contingent upon the condition of absolute non-usage.
‘They said upon joining a Companion, [Mana] transitions to [Magic] or [Sacred] and others. The same applies to Qi. ──Then isn’t it possible to alter it artificially?’
Chang─!
Mei, snatching away a sword with the three-section staff, swiftly wielded the crossed swords, beheading the Jiangshis.
[Skill[Eight Principles of Eternal Character(永字八法)] acquired!]
“Geez, they are just giving it away.”
Having learned the sword technique used by Jiangshis, Mei hummed a cheerful tune.
[Tower of Sichuan Province, 73rd Floor Cleared!]
[Isn’t progressing as a regular Climber!]
[The difficulty of the next layer increases!]
[No rewards granted due to the penalty of 【Idol】class!]
The Korean Tower eats 70%, the Japanese Tower throws tantrums on the floor, refusing to give.
Having reached the China Tower, without granting additional attribute points, Mei Xiao Long Bao ascended further with no rewards to be had, unfazed by it.
“Yes, I’ve realized it. The important thing is not just ascending the Tower. It was about striving to ascend, my endeavor! That’s what mattered the most!”
If the China Tower had a mouth, it would’ve uttered, “Stop spouting nonsense, young one.”
What kind of Climber ascends without rewards, only accumulating penalties and increasing difficulty?
Unfortunately, here was one.
“Abandoning greed, ascending solely for the sake of future generations!”
“Uh, ancestor… the… 74th floor… it’s the 『Complete Strategy Layer』. The reason I desperately climbed was because, well… Mujon is the lord of the next floor..”
“Oh, bonus stage…oh dear….is that so? Then I must ascend further. Time to imprint the fear of VTuber upon them”
Just what on earth is a VTuber.
Every VTuber showcases some sort of Karate(Technique).
Among them, the weakest VTuber, Wakamou Inarizushi!
Her specialization lies in imitating what the forebears pioneered!
If unknown, there’s no need to understand; simply observing and imitating solves most things!!
“The days of practicing as a Clipper…the living time as a VTuber…..have I finally realized….the ultimate essence of imitation….”
“Is it a good thing?”
“It means taking it easy with the broadcast”
Desolating the 100 floors of the China Tower, the next collab is GTA 5.
Mei thought so while venturing into the floor dominated by Mujon.
=============================
Today, I tried drawing a picture.
It’s a parody drawing.
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