Chapter 122: Marvel 122
"SSS rank? What rank is that?" Liam asked, his confusion mirrored by the others as they looked at Matt for an explanation.
Matt leaned back, folding his arms with a smirk. "Hmm, you see, S rank isn't the end. After it comes SS rank, then SSS rank, and finally EX rank. I don't know if there are any ranks beyond that, but these are the ones I'm certain of," he explained.
The group exchanged glances, processing the new information. "How do you know this?" Misty asked, raising an eyebrow.
Matt gestured casually. "Thanks to my monsters. They've revealed some interesting things about the ranking system," he said, and the others nodded slowly, still absorbing his words.
"I wonder if anyone else can reach those ranks too," Liam mused aloud, a spark of hope in his tone.
Brain shook his head, cutting off the thought. "I don't think so. If we could, Matt would've already assisted us with it," he reasoned.
Matt nodded. "Exactly. If it were possible, I'd have made sure to push all of you to higher ranks already," he admitted, his expression serious.
Leon sighed, breaking the silence. "Well, in any case, let's focus on mastering S rank. We're already powerful enough to handle most challenges," he said, and the others nodded in agreement, a newfound determination settling over them.
"Yeah, we're strong," Misty added, and the group chuckled, their spirits lifting as they prepared for what lay ahead.
As the conversation settled, Matt stood up, his presence commanding attention. "Alright, focus up. While I handle the Jeju Island dungeon alone, I need all of you to continue your training and keep things under control here. I don't want to come back to chaos," he said, his tone half-serious but firm.
Trion grinned. "Don't worry, boss. We've got this. No rogue monsters or hunters will get past us."
Misty chimed in, "Yeah, and besides, this is your moment to shine. Show the world what you're capable of, Matt. Just don't get too carried away and blow up the island."
Matt smirked at her comment, shaking his head. "No promises. If I see something interesting, I might just have to test my limits," he joked, earning a collective groan from the group.
Leon stepped forward, his expression more serious. "Matt, just be careful. S rank dungeons are no joke, and you know better than anyone how unpredictable they can be."
"I know," Matt replied with a nod. "But with Azdahak's new abilities feeding me strength, and my own growth to SSS rank, this is the perfect opportunity to prove myself. Besides, I won't just be taking on the dungeon—I'll be setting the standard for what's to come."
As Matt spoke, his aura flared momentarily, radiating a sense of immense power and confidence. The others felt a mix of awe and reassurance. Even though he joked around, it was clear that Matt was fully prepared for the challenge ahead.
"When do you leave?" Brain asked, breaking the momentary silence.
"Tomorrow morning," Matt replied. "The press conference and signing ceremony for the raid agreement are scheduled for two days from now, but I plan to start clearing the dungeon right after that. The sooner it's done, the better."
Liam hesitated before speaking, "And if something goes wrong? Not that I doubt you, but S rank dungeons are known for their surprises."
Matt walked over and placed a hand on Liam's shoulder. "If something goes wrong, I'll improvise, like always. But trust me, I'll come back alive—and stronger than ever," he said with a confident grin.
The group shared a moment of quiet solidarity before Matt turned to leave the room. "Alright, get back to training. I'll see you all when I return—hopefully with a shiny new World Rank title."
As Matt exited, the group exchanged determined looks. While they trusted him, they knew that the responsibility of holding down the fort was now on their shoulders.
Leon broke the silence. "We need to step up our game. If Matt's aiming for the top, we can't afford to fall behind."
"Agreed," Misty said, crossing her arms. "Let's make sure that when he comes back, he's impressed with us, too."
With that, the group dispersed, each silently vowing to become stronger in their own right.
As Matt stepped off the private jet, the bustling energy of Korea greeted him. His sharp eyes scanned the airport's private terminal, where a small entourage awaited him. Among them stood the Hunter Association president, a man who immediately caught Matt's attention.
The president was an older man, but his strong, well-built frame exuded vitality and discipline. Despite his age, his physique rivaled that of someone in their prime. His broad shoulders, upright posture, and piercing gaze made it clear that he wasn't just a bureaucrat but a seasoned hunter who had seen his fair share of battles. Go Gunhee, the current president of the Korean Hunters Association.
"Mr. Matt," the president greeted warmly, stepping forward with an extended hand. His voice was deep and carried the authority of someone used to commanding respect.
"President Go," Matt replied, shaking his hand firmly. The grip was strong—enough to convey confidence but not an attempt to intimidate.
"Welcome to Korea. I've heard a lot about you recently. Your rise has been... nothing short of extraordinary," President Go said, his expression neutral but his tone clearly impressed.
"Thank you," Matt said with a humble nod. Go Gunhee, the Korean Hunter Association President, glanced toward the jet with curiosity.
"Where is your team, Mr. Matt?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.
Matt chuckled lightly. "I'm alone, President Go," he replied confidently.
Go Gunhee's smile faltered, and his brows furrowed in disbelief. "Surely you're jesting," he said, his tone laced with concern.
Matt shook his head, his expression calm and assured. "Don't worry, I'm not joking. Believe me, I can handle this on my own."
Go Gunhee let out a small sigh and gestured for Matt to follow him. "You're young, and confidence is good, but this is an S-rank dungeon. Even our best S-rank teams have struggled and suffered heavy losses." His voice carried a mix of caution and admiration, though his worry was evident.
***
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