Translator: Dreamscribe

Lee Woon-sung admired the fish he had caught.

“Wow! That’s huge! Haha!”

"Wouldn't this be a personal record?"

“Yeah, Chairman Hwang would freak out if he saw this. Where else could you catch a fish like this? Hahaha!”

The fish looked like a giant carp. Even its whiskers were thicker than an adult man’s forearm.

“Can we take a photo here too?”

“Yes, the photo feature is currently under development, but we can take a shot here and send it to the company for printing. I’ll take it for you.”

Can’t resist a proof shot!

As Jinwoo reached out, a blue sphere floated up.

Lee Woon-sung placed his foot on the giant fish’s body and struck a dignified pose.

Click!

He deliberately made the shutter sound.

He took several shots in various poses like that.

“Hmm, let’s take one together.”

“Sounds good.”

Jinwoo and Lee Woon-sung stood side by side in front of the fish for a photo.

“Hoho! I feel powerful. I think I can do even better than before.”

Lee Woon-sung clenched his fist tightly.

At that moment, there was a change in Lee Woon-sung’s body. Jinwoo examined him and opened his Status Window.

The Status Window was well implemented.

[Lv.2] Lee Woon-sung (Tester)

Strength: 5 Agility: 5 Health: 5 Endurance: 5 Magic Power: 1

Stat Points: 1P

Experience makes the soul of an Earthling stronger.

The power gained here could be manifested through the magic circle engraved on the soul.

Thanks to his awakening, Jinwoo was able to fully understand the power of the soul. The energy accumulated through growth could now be invested into stats.

‘No need for suffering like I went through.’

He meant there was no need to go through the same brutal struggles he had endured to build up the desired strength.

The souls of Earthlings were special.

Even ordinary experience allowed for such rapid growth; if they were to defeat monsters corrupted by Erosion, that growth would accelerate even more.

The energy released by Erosion-corrupted monsters upon death was incomparable to regular experience.

‘Maybe a genius will emerge…’

Someone might reach an extraordinary realm, maybe not quite Jinwoo’s level, but enough to help save Arsilan.

Jinwoo felt hopeful.

‘Hm?’

He discovered traits in the Status Window not displaying the source linked to the Magic Tower.

*Hidden Traits

[B] Golden Aura

An aura that attracts gold.

Greatly increases luck.

[A] Innate Sense

Born with natural sense.

Learns and masters anything quickly and easily.

It was a rare trait, even in Arsilan.

Perhaps because he was from Earth, hidden talents within his soul had blossomed in Arsilan in the form of traits.

It was a very positive development.

However, the power gained here was only valid in a body that could draw out the soul's power. Unless one reached the same level as Jinwoo, returning to the original body would only result in restored health at best.

‘Efficiently and quickly nurture them.’

That was Jinwoo’s goal.

Jinwoo and Lee Woon-sung continued fishing together until the beautiful sunset spread over the lake. Most of the fish were released, but they grilled a few of the larger ones.

After tasting the fish meat, Lee Woon-sung nodded.

“It’s mild. Hoho. I can properly taste the flavor and feel satisfied."

"Yes, we're currently adjusting that."

"This alone makes it an incredible product."

Being able to eat to one’s heart’s content without gaining weight was amazing.

Since it all converted into maintenance Magic Power, there was no chance of gaining weight. They were chatting for a while when.

“Oh, hello there.”

A group of hunters approached.

They were hunters who supplied meat to the Rainsword territory. Also seasoned warriors.

Jinwoo fell into brief thought, then decided to bluff casually.

“They’re NPCs. Independent AIs, but practically indistinguishable from real people.”

“Oh, fascinating.”

Jinwoo showed the hunters his Magic Tower ID.

They were greatly surprised and started to kneel, but Jinwoo raised his hand to stop them.

“He is a guest of honor. Treat him with respect.”

He said it in a whisper-like tone and cast a translation spell on them.

When Lee Woon-sung first spoke to them, they sat down beside him and started chatting. After a few exchanges, laughter erupted.

"Hoho! When I pulled like this, a creature the size of a house raised its head."

“Ooh! That’s amazing. You’re incredibly strong!”

“Well, I am pretty strong.”

The atmosphere was cheerful.

"Would you like some beer? We just brewed it."

He poured beer into a wooden cup.

The ingredients were poor, so it didn’t taste good.

“Phew, not bad.”

But sitting by the bonfire, drinking and roasting fish with these rough men.

The atmosphere itself did half the job.

“Ha! That’s nothing. I once caught a deer the size of a house. Hahaha! This scar came from that.”

"That must have been quite impressive!"

"I see you understand romance."

The boisterous gathering continued for quite a while.

Once the hunters left, silence returned to the surroundings.

It was time to return to Earth.

“They’re good friends.”

“Right?”

Lee Woon-sung looked at Jinwoo.

“How far along is the development?”

“The Beginner Village, one city, and a hunting ground, roughly.”

“I’ll provide full support.”

Lee Woon-sung’s expression turned serious.

From his eyes, a long-lost passion emerged.

Lee Woon-sung was someone who could have everything in Korea.

But not here.

This was a place where Lee Woon-sung, chairman of the Ohsung Group, disappeared, and he could live as a fisherman named Lee Woon-sung. A place where he could enjoy everything without the limitations of the physical body.

Here, there was a chance to live a different life, to dream new dreams.

“Increasing the development speed isn’t the problem, but since it’s a VR device, there are quite a few regulations and procedures to follow...”

“I said I’ll provide full support. That won’t be a problem at all. It’s a very trivial matter.”

Lee Woon-sung’s younger brother was a political heavyweight. And Lee Woon-sung’s network stretched throughout Korea.

He had lasted over 50 years as the number one in the business world.

There wasn’t a single place in Korea untouched by his funds or influence.

“Don’t worry about the small stuff and focus solely on development.”

It was the answer Jinwoo wanted most.

Lee Woon-sung cleared his throat.

“By the way..., are you taking this with you?”

“I should, right? It’s a test model, and there’s a lot to improve.”

Suddenly, Lee Woon-sung clutched his back.

“Ughhh! This old man’s body hurts, and who knows what’ll happen tomorrow. I’ll just lie in bed waiting for death.”

“Didn’t you say you were healthy except for the injury?”

“Ahem! Aigo! Your grandma is calling me! Hoohhh..., when you get old, you should just die. Heuuu…”

Jinwoo shook his head slowly.

“I’ll leave it with you. Let me know when you’re ready to connect.”

“As expected, my youngest grandson is the best! Is there anything you want? I’ll give you everything!”

“You lost the bet, so you have to grant my wish.”

Lee Woon-sung chuckled and nodded.

“Alright, what is it that you want?”

Lee Woon-sung could give Jinwoo anything.

That’s why he said he’d give him anything.

What would that genius grandson ask for? A building? Shares? Maybe the chairman position?

Jinwoo’s eyes curved gently.

“My wish is for Grandpa to live a long and healthy life.”

Lee Woon-sung’s eyes opened wide.

It was because he felt it wasn’t flattery, but genuine.

Jinwoo’s words were filled with sincerity. Just as Lee Woon-sung had felt, Jinwoo spoke from the heart. Because Lee Woon-sung had to live a long time to be of help in saving Arsilan.

“Please work hard for my wish.”

“Alright, hahaha! Oh, how admirable! My boy!”

Lee Woon-sung laughed heartily with joy.

Jinwoo gave a small smile as he watched him.

To him, Lee Woon-sung was also a good grandfather.

*

Development was going smoothly.

Exceptionally smoothly.

Thanks to Chairman Lee Woon-sung’s absolute support, all minor issues were disregarded. Arsilan was a real, existing world, and what FS Games mainly focused on developing was the user convenience aspect to help players adapt well to that world. The programming team had fully adapted to the Magic Engine, making their work several times faster.

Using Tia’s scenario and scripts as a base, they created the early main story. The art team had already established everything from the outfits of NPCs appearing in the starting village to detailed background settings.

The art work was done with regular computers, while modeling was implemented through the Magic Engine. It was explained that the configurations were realized through the superintelligent AI at the Research Lab.

“Kyah! Prince Leon..., he’s the character of my life! I want to see him moving in person.”

“You can see him directly once you enter Arsilan, right?”

“They say only the Director and team leads have tested it so far...”

The employees turned their eyes to the Director.

Han Yong-seon was in charge of the Arsilan Project as the overall Director. His new title was Head of the Salvation Headquarters. The former Head of Development had been reassigned to another division and now oversaw FS Games’ external affairs.

The Arsilan Project was entirely under Jinwoo’s command and faithfully executed by Han Yong-seon. When the employees looked at Han Yong-seon, he flinched and avoided their gaze.

“Director, we heard you haven’t gone home lately..., just staying in the testing room every day.”

“It must be really fun? Is it fun?”

He was conducting various tests with the player character. He could only operate in certain areas, which in game terms meant only within permitted maps, and detailed adjustments were made to prevent harm to Arsilan's residents.

When Jinwoo came out of the CEO’s office, all the employees looked toward him.

It had now been several months since Jinwoo had joined FS Games. Though they still found him a bit intimidating, everyone was full of goodwill. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say they held him in respect and admiration.

The staff morale was truly at its peak.

Though salaries had been raised to the level of major corporations and generous bonuses were given, those were just extras. Everyone was highly motivated because they were making history under the genius who was developing the first-ever virtual reality game.

"We have successfully passed the stability test."

“Oooh!!”

At Jinwoo’s words, everyone cheered.

With Lee Woon-sung going all-in, things progressed at lightning speed.

Since this was a cutting-edge industry expected to lead Korea’s future, they utilized the regulatory sandbox and related laws. They had even gone through the trouble of creating a dedicated safety testing zone, so it wasn’t all that surprising.

There had never been anything like fully immersive VR technology before, so things could move even faster.

On the contrary, the government had freaked out and insisted it be kept classified until release. They even dispatched agents around the Research Lab to prevent tech leaks.

Fortunately, there was no need to use brainwashing magic.

Of course, as they had gone through multiple verifications, some information had leaked out.

Still, people didn’t believe it and continued to mock FS Games, Ohsung Electronics, and Lee Jinwoo.

Naturally so.

Who would believe the claim that a virtual reality device was coming out?

‘Even if they dismantled the entire lab, they still wouldn’t figure it out.’

He had built various convincing-looking facilities in the lab, but they were all useless. Just a small device that connected the Soul Gate to the Magic Tower was enough.

Because it was made by magic, the moment it was pulled out of the mainboard or dismantled, it would lose all effect. It would just become a melted lump of plastic.

“Since the prototype test is done, we’ll soon begin production. The rest, Director Han will explain.”

The VR Connector was researched at Jinwoo’s personal Research Lab and manufactured by Ohsung Electronics. FS Games and the Research Lab jointly developed and serviced Arsilan.

When Jinwoo looked at Director Han Yong-seon, he stood from his seat and began to speak.

“Ahem, FS Games will be participating in the Universe Unpack. We’re scheduled to be introduced last. Since this will be the world’s first unveiling, not just our Salvation Headquarters, but every department will give it their all.”

“Waaaah!”

“Finally!”

The employees erupted in cheers.

Public opinion toward FS Games worsened by the day, and even the employees were being ridiculed.

‘If you quit FS Games now, you won’t be able to get another jobㅋㅋ Who would take you?’

‘Escape is based on intelligence. If you’re dumb, you deserve to be stuck.’

'The JOAT of Korea's game industry. A national embarrassment.'

‘Actually, we’re all inside virtual reality. Lee Jinwoo is controlling everything. Please, logout!’

‘What a waste of Lee Jinwoo. Looks like a celebrity, but now branded a crazy bastard who humiliated the country. ㅋㅋ Judging by the lack of response, even the Ohsung Group must’ve disowned him.’

As for Jinwoo, it didn’t even need to be said.

He was mocked around the clock, not only through hate comments but also used as a meme across YouTube and online communities. Of course, the legal team at Ohsung Group was collecting all materials that crossed the line, but they hadn’t taken action yet.

Han Yong-seon clenched his fist.

"Everyone has endured well. All the criticism and insults we've faced will turn into cheers and praise! Korean games, no, all games in the world will be conquered by Arsilan Saga!"

Han Yong-seon looked at Jinwoo.

"Infinite praise and glory to CEO Lee Jinwoo, the savior of Korean games! No, the savior of Korea! Everyone, applaud!"

Thunderous applause erupted.

‘Hmm.’

Jinwoo fell into brief thought, then opened his mouth.

"After the successful launch announcement, I'll provide everyone with the premium model. We'll also conduct large-scale internal testing."

“Wuaaaah!”

“Kyaaaah!”

From the cheering employees, there was even a trace of madness.

It was like watching cult followers. But for Jinwoo, this was a familiar reaction.

“Now then, let’s work hard.”

Unlike the public perception, there was no better atmosphere than this inside.

Jinwoo entered the CEO’s office and organized the upcoming plans. The smartphone placed on the desk kept buzzing.

When he checked, dozens of messages had piled up.

Grandpa: Jinwoo. By any chance, are the servers opening today?

Grandpa: This old man is on vacation starting today.

Grandpa: Please open the server.

Grandpa: I made a hunting appointment. Open the server.

Grandpa: Open the server! (Sticker: Duck pounding on the door)

.

...

....

Grandpa: I’m heading to your company now.

Ah.

Jinwoo hurriedly began typing a message.

Me: Please wait just a bit.

Grandpa: How long?

Me: An hour?

Grandpa: 30 minutes. Not a second more.

Me: Okay, I’ll head to the Research Lab now.

Grandpa: Great! Good work. (Sticker: Duck doing a cheer)

Jinwoo let out a small sigh and stepped out of the CEO’s office.

Anyway, when opening the server, he had to go to the lab at least for show. After all, they had even built an impressive-looking data center inside the lab.

“Ahem, CEO, I think I’ll be working late today too...”

“Ahem, there’s a part that needs testing.”

“We need to observe some internal implementation...”

Han Yong-seon subtly said that.

Before he knew it, the team leads were also hovering around.

"...Have dinner before you work."

Smile!

Han Yong-seon and the team leads’ faces brightened.

Working hard was ultimately a good thing for Arsilan.

And time quickly passed, and it was now time for the Universe Unpack event.