Solo Leveling with Copy Ability

Markus stood tall amid a sea of formidable figures as reporters and officials buzzed around the KHA headquarters. Flanked by national-level hunters, Thomas Andre, Liu Zhigang, Sung Jinwoo, Lennart Niermann and guild leaders such as Baek Yoonho from the White Tiger Guild and Choi Jong-In from the Hunter Guild, Markus exuded an air of serene confidence. While others wore expressions of apprehension and gloom, Markus remained unruffled, a knowing smile playing on his lips. As a transmigrator, he quietly reflected on his recent ascension his race had evolved into that of an Ethereal Archon, his skills had reached new heights, and his mastery of the World Gate now allowed him to tear through the fabric of reality on a planetary scale.

The details of his evolved World Gate skill danced through his mind like a carefully orchestrated symphony: it now permitted instantaneous teleportation across vast distances, erasing all previous limitations. With this ability, Markus could effortlessly traverse any location he had ever visited, whether a distant dungeon or a far-flung world, making his mobility virtually limitless. This, combined with his enhanced perception, an inherent gift of his new Ethereal Archon form allowed him to detect even the subtlest traces of arcane energy. To Markus, the chaos expected from the gate break was nothing more than a predictable ripple in the grand tapestry of fate.

The S-Rank gate began its ominous break, unleashing streams of shadow soldiers, angelic beings, and dragons into the sky, the old Shadow Army fell into reverent submission, kneeling as they recognized Sung Jinwoo as the true Shadow Monarch. Despite the turbulent scene unfolding before him, Markus's mind was entirely at ease. His thoughts raced not with worry but with strategic calculations, pondering his next moves in a world where even monarchs were mere playthings. 

In that charged atmosphere, as the gate shattered with a final, brilliant flash and the world held its collective breath, Markus observed the scene with quiet satisfaction. He knew that while the masses marveled at the spectacle of monsters and magic, his true advantage lay in the knowledge of what was to come. His heart, now that of an Ethereal Archon, beat with the steady rhythm of one who had transcended the ordinary, ready to reshape destiny on his own terms. With the monumental achievements of the day etched into history, Markus prepared for the next phase of his campaign, confident that his mastery over the World Gate and indeed, the very fabric of reality would secure his legacy as the architect.

Disappointment and frustration are the terms he would use the describe his situation. Markus spent the past two days in relentless practice, his focus solely on mastering his World Gate skill. Despite his honed abilities as an Ethereal Archon, rendering him intangible with his Ethereal Wraith skill, the gates he opened only led to an endless expanse of black void. Frustration mingled with determination as he concentrated on visualizing alternate realities, yet nothing seemed to break the monotony of emptiness. However, fate intervened on two separate occasions when, against all odds, he managed to open gateways to barren planets. Though these worlds were devoid of life and energy, they represented a small victory, proof that progress, however incremental, was possible.

While Markus labored over the intricacies of his World Gate, the global stage was shaken by an unexpected resurgence of new gate appearances. In a stunning twist that rivaled the chaos of the Seoul gate, portals began to materialize in key locations around the world. The shockwaves from these events rippled through the global hunter community, drawing a mixture of awe, fear, and intense speculation. News outlets broadcast live images of eerie, pulsating gates emerging in city skylines, casting long, ominous shadows over once-stable urban centers.

Amid this turmoil, Jinwoo convened a press conference, inviting representatives from every corner of the world to address the crisis. The tension was palpable as global leaders, military strategists, and hunter association heads tuned in to hear his words. Jinwoo's announcement was somber yet resolute, he warned them about the monsters that will emerge. Hundreds of Kamish level dragons he said. He tried to explain the forces manipulating these gates, and that only by getting as far away as possible from the gates civilians will have a chance to survive the impending catastrophe. His call to action was clear. Some representatives questioned him, some did not believe his tale instead choosing to bury their heads in the sand. Most however took his words to the heart and started a movement of mass exodus. 

Not long after the press conference, Jinwoo reached out to Markus directly, his tone carrying urgency as he explained that critical information about the emerging gates needed to be shared. Meeting in a discreet location, Jinwoo detailed the alarming situation: the new gates weren't random occurrences but were part of a coordinated assault by Monarchs. Targeting humanity itself. Markus listened intently, a cool smile playing at the corners of his mouth. Though he had been deeply engrossed in refining his own skills and his undead army was only a quarter of Jinwoo's colossal force he recognized the gravity of the situation. With a nod of agreement, he assured Jinwoo that he would help with the impending struggle, his mind already calculating how new types of dragons will look good on his list of summons. 

Outside, the world continued to watch with bated breath as live feeds and news channels reported the unfolding saga. Hashtags like #NewGateCrisis and #HunterAlliance trended globally, while online forums buzzed with theories and tactical breakdowns of the situation. Amid the cacophony of voices, Markus and Jinwoo's alliance stood as a beacon of order, a promise that the forces of darkness would be met with unyielding resistance.

Most of the high ranking generals, presidents of Hunter Associations and political leaders were having difficulty to believe such massacre will occur. Some S Rank hunters called the warning a farce. Jay Mills, S Rank hunter from Canada was one of them. Most Hunters Associations were organizing massive hunter forces near the gates. Civilians were still being evacuated. Jinwoo decided to go to China. While MC did not announced anything. He teleported to Canada the massive gate was looming overhead. Antares will gift the new Dragon units to him here on this very point, he thought. There were only minutes left to the gate break.

As the moment of the gate break drew near, Hunter Seong Jin-Woo set off for China, determined to confront the unknown directly. With representatives and elite hunters from several nations following his lead, the atmosphere in the China was thick with anticipation. Yet, as the designated moment arrived, all the gates, the one China and indeed, across the globe remained eerily silent. Despite the heightened tension and the collective hope of the assembled hunters, not a single creature or sign of the looming invasion materialized from any of these portals.

Meanwhile, Markus, chose a different path, from his vantage point, he observed the world's gateways in real time, his enhanced Ethereal Archon senses picking up even the slightest trace of arcane energy. While the gates in every other region continued to lie dormant, gate in Canada began to ripple with activity. In stark contrast to the emptiness elsewhere, a solitary figure slowly emerged from the Canadian gate, its presence immediately commanding attention.

With a calm yet piercing gaze, Markus quickly discerned the true identity of the lone entrant, it was Antares, the Monarch of Destruction, whose fearsome reputation loomed large. The silence of the other portals only served to underscore the significance of Antares's appearance, as the world collectively braced itself for the inevitable, cataclysmic clash between humanity and the forces of annihilation.

Antares strode forward through the chaos, his eyes scanning the gathered forces with an air of disdain. With a soft voice that carried over the silently waiting hunters, he asked to the one standing in front of him, "Are you the king of this place?" His words dripped with contempt, setting the stage for what was to come.

Adam White was staying close to the massive gate. While trying to understand the situation his phone rang. He answered the call after seeing it was from Jinwoo. While he was explaining the situation, a massive explosion erupted near the front lines, its shockwave ripping through the ranks and annihilating most of the waiting forces. The detonation was so powerful that the air itself trembled, leaving behind a landscape marred by devastation and debris. Amidst the carnage, a grim salvage operation began as the remnants of the high rank hunters lay scattered.

Markus, was waiting exactly for this moment, he saw potential even in the wreckage. His eyes gleamed with a mixture of calculation and dark humor as he activated his resurrection skill. With a surge of necromantic power, he began to reanimate the fallen high ranking hunters including several S Ranks, fusing their souls with his own dark magic to form hybrid soldiers. Though the sight was far from beautiful, the resulting army, composed of several thousand undead elite had a fierce, formidable presence. 

While Markus worked methodically to bolster his ranks with these newly forged hybrid hunters, Antares moved among the surviving forces with a singular focus: he was searching for the Shadow Monarch. In the meantime Markus was engaged in his own brutal contest, systematically dispatching the largest, most formidable dragons emerging from the massive gate. Each dragon fell before his relentless might, their destruction further fueling his dark arsenal.

As the battlefield slowly calmed, Markus surveyed the aftermath with a satisfied smile. The resurrection of the S Rank hunters had not only replenished his close combat units but also expanded his magic wielding forces. His skill Eternal Warden has added these S Rank close combat, healing and spell caster units as summonable forces. New Dragons were a nice surprise as well, his favorites were Elemental Hydras and Ancient Dragons. His skill Eternal Warden leveled up 4 times. These hybrid and undead units would now fight alongside his elite close combat and arcane units, creating an army that was both fearsome and versatile.

In addition to his reanimated S Rank hunters, Markus's strategic genius shone through as his Lich Generals and Lich Lords worked in tandem to further augment his forces. Their ability to summon even A Rank hunters ensured that his army was continually reinforced. And high above the carnage, his collection of newly slain, magnificent dragons served as both a trophy and a testament to his dominance on the battlefield. A perfect blend of beauty and brutality. With each slain dragon his forces were getting stronger thanks to Soul Harvest. 

Markus strode forward through the chaos, his eyes fixed on Antares, the imposing Monarch of Destruction. Without the need for stealth or subterfuge, or even caution he approached directly, with mischief dancing in his eyes. His tone cool and dismissive. "My dear," he began, his voice laced with condescension, "I'm looking for Yogumunt, the King of Demonic Spectres and Monarch of Transfiguration. I hear he's the only one among your kin who carries the ability to create portals on acceptable levels. I trust you can enlighten me on his whereabouts."

Antares' gaze hardened as he studied Markus, he was not a Human, not a Monarch nor a Ruler. Yet all these energies were dancing around him. While Adam White listened with an expression that could best be described as shocked and lifeless. Breaking the silence, Antares asked flatly, "What are you, and are those undead yours?" His tone was curt, expecting Markus to answer without hesitation.

With a dismissive flick of his hand, Markus replied, "Oh, where are my manners? My name is Markus Tenebris, and indeed, these law abiding citizens of Death Land are my forces." His words dripped with sarcasm and arrogance, as he gestured broadly to the array of hybrid soldiers and undead at his back. "I must say, they seem to have a few issues with yours," he added, his smirk widening at the implied criticism.

Seeing no courtesy from Antares in return, Markus's eyes narrowed as he leaned in slightly. "Now, listen here, Young man," he chided in a patronizing tone, "a gentleman always introduces himself properly. It's not merely a formality, it's civility. You should know that when a person steps forward, proper decorum is expected. Consider this a lesson in etiquette, one you seem to sorely lack."

Antares's expression was priceless, though there was a flicker of annoyance in his eyes, this unidentified creature was clearly lecturing him. Meanwhile, Jinwoo's voice crackled in the background over a phone call, his presence a silent reminder of the high stakes at play. Adam White continued to watch, his gaze unblinking, as Markus's lecture echoed across the tense battlefield.

Markus straightened his posture, clearly satisfied with his own demonstration of superiority in etiquette, being a gentleman was important after all. "I expect you to introduce yourself appropriately next time, or at the very least, not leave me waiting for proper decorum. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have much to do. Unlike some." His gaze pointedly lingered at the monarch. "Tell me, where might I find this elusive Yogumunt?" His tone left no room for argument, his snobbish confidence unshaken by the silence that followed. Markus was having fun while Antares in the end was a totally uncultured swine, even after being asked twice, yes twice he did not provided the whereabouts of Yogumunt nor did he introduced himself properly despite being lectured moments ago. 

Antares departed the battlefield in silence, his form fading into the distance without uttering a single word. His expression remained inscrutable, a mix of disdain and confusion, as if he could not fathom the need for the lecture that strange creature had so arrogantly delivered. The Monarch of Destruction left behind an uneasy stillness a silence that spoke volumes about his disapproval of the needless pomp.

Markus's snide commentary and self-important lecture had clearly fallen on deaf ears. Antares, uncomprehending the sarcasm and mischief. He was unimpressed, did not bother to engage further. Instead, it was as though he expected that Yogumunt, Monarch of Transfiguration would eventually step forward to answer the call that creature had so brazenly made. The air carried the unspoken promise that the next revelation would come from the one who truly understood the art of gate manipulation.

Meanwhile, Jinwoo had managed to secure the runestone from the FBH. The Dragon's Fear, a relic pulsating with arcane energy and the remnants of ancient power, now lay safely in his possession. It was the masterpiece of his plan, yet he was unaware of the fact one tenth of the invading army was already decimated by Markus.

Determined to set things right, Jinwoo resolved to confront Markus about the reckless nature of his sarcastic lecture. He felt that Antares's quiet departure spoke louder than any words could. "There was no need for that display of arrogance," Jinwoo thought, preparing to remind Markus of the grave dangers posed by Antares, danger that transcended personal pride, and sarcasm. Across continents, the global hunter community was mobilizing at an unprecedented scale. The Asian Hunter Alliance, Europa Hunter Alliance, African Temporary Guild Union, and Chinese Emergency Response Alliance had all initiated rapid deployments. Their collective response was both a show of solidarity and a necessity.

In North America, the situation was reaching a critical mass. Hundreds of thousands of hunters were converging on the battleground, their ranks swelling with elite fighters and promising recruits alike. Every major government, military agency, and hunter organization was in a state of high alert, preparing for the worst-case scenario. As the preparations reached fever pitch, the tension among the global hunter community was palpable. The impending battle in North America loomed like a dark specter, and every alliance was ready to answer the call. With alliances mobilizing and the world holding its breath, Jinwoo knew that the next steps would be critical. He resolved to discuss the gravity of Antares's threat with Markus, urging him to abandon his needless posturing and focus on the true challenge ahead, a challenge that now united hunters from every corner of the globe. 

Markus reveled in the chaos unfolding on the battlefield, his forces turning the area into a veritable meat grinder for the monstrous invaders. Every unit under his command, honed to S Rank perfection, fought with a ruthless precision that left no room for mercy. The resounding clamor of clashing weapons and the wails of vanquished foes became a symphony of destruction, as his armies systematically reduced the enemy ranks.

Among his elite summons, the Phantom Blademasters led the charge with ghostly blades that sliced through enemy lines in a blur of silver light. Clad in sleek, assassin-like armor, these spectral warriors darted between the chaos, their strikes precise enough to decimate entire squads of lesser monsters. Their every movement was a testament to Markus's mastery of both necromancy and combat, leaving trails of vanquished foes in their wake.

High above the fray, resurrected Dragons soared with terrifying majesty. The Wind Dragons, with their lithe, ethereal forms, carried a deathly wind that scattered enemy ranks like autumn leaves, while the Fire, Lightning, and Frost Dragons unleashed torrents of elemental fury upon their foes. Each dragon's roar shook the very foundations of the battlefield, as they incinerated, electrocuted, and froze any monster foolish enough to challenge them, their flames and bolts of energy carving a swath of obliteration. The Ancient Dragons a new addition to his serpentine forces was epitome of art. Their hardened scales able to stop the most brutal attacks, the hellfire they distribute to their former colleagues was precise and deathly. Markus while resurrecting another ancient dragon couldn't help himself he remembered the quote from Bob Ross "Gotta give him a friend. Like I always say, 'Everyone needs a friend.'" What a lovely day he murmurs with a satisfied smile as the new hybrid roared with the skill Dragon's Fear. His Elemental Hydras were destruction incarnate. With multiple heads and each head master of an element their combined attack were all large scaled and adding the souls of the slain as stat points to their undead and hybrid brethren. 

On the ground, the might of the Vampire Lords was on full display. These fearsome beings, elegant yet deadly, moved with a fluid grace that belied their ferocity. They descended upon enemy formations like a pack of wolves, mounted on Abyssal Wolves ironically, their brutal cold weapon skills decimating large groups of foes. Even amidst the relentless storm of violence, the Vampire Lords stood as symbols of darkness and death, each swing of their weapons leaving a trail of carnage.

Not to be outdone, the Lich Lords and Lich Generals orchestrated a macabre ballet of necromancy from behind the lines. Channeling ancient energies, they summoned legions of undead soldiers, skeletal warriors, wraiths, and spectral knights, that surged forward in a relentless tide. These reanimated horrors overwhelmed the enemy with sheer numbers, their unyielding advance turning the battlefield into a graveyard of fallen foes.

High-ranking hunters, who had once been the elite of humanity, now fought alongside Markus as summoned S Rank warriors and casters. These transcendent combatants, infused with arcane power and honed by relentless training, executed devastating maneuvers that cut down monstrous forces with surgical precision. Their presence not only bolstered Markus's army but also served as a stark reminder of the hunters' undying (literally) resolve to reclaim their world from the forces of chaos.

Amid the cacophony of destruction, Markus couldn't help but chuckle at the memory of his fateful encounter with the Monarch of Destruction, a moment that now seemed almost comical in its contrast to the absolute devastation wrought by his forces. Every S Rank summon, from the relentless Phantom Blademasters to the awe-inspiring Dragons and the legions of undead raised by his Lich Lords, contributed to an unstoppable wave of power that left the enemy scattered and defeated, a living testament to the dark brilliance of his command.

Soul Harvest ensuring the continues increase, his own and his vast army's devastative efficiency. His Lich Lords and Generals summoning A Rank hunters in hundreds. These hunters in return were getting stronger by the minute with stat increase provided by the Soul Harvest. Markus himself was grinding Eternal Warden skill to his heart's content. The death of thousands of hunters in the hands of Antares was an unfortunate accident he thinks while sending plasma lances to some incredible Dragons. Really, he should send a fruit basket to Monarch of Destruction for the selfless contributions to his army.