The 100th Regression of the Max-Level Player

Chapter 57: The Abduction (1)

Wow, its already 2 p.m. Can you believe it? Before diving into work, how about we grab a bite to eat?

At the managers suggestion, the remaining trio eagerly nodded in agreement.

Their stomachs had been growling, likely enticed by the tempting smell of food wafting from the kitchen.

follow me.

Trailing behind the manager, they swiftly arrived at a cozy table.

The air was saturated with the mouthwatering fragrance of rich soybean paste stew.

You know, this caf is quite special. Its a restaurant too.

Grinning, the manager led them to a table, and the others took their seats in tow.

Oh, Boss!

Prompted by the managers call, the owner emerged from the kitchen, bearing a tray with bottles of water and cups.

She appeared youthful, perhaps in her early thirties, for someone in charge.

How did the interview go? Everything alright?

Though the final interview still loomed ahead, the manager feigned ignorance and responded with a smile.

Absolutely! Thanks to you, we managed to conclude it in a peaceful setting, undisturbed by other patrons. Your support means the world to us.

Oh, no need to mention it. In fact, were grateful to have your business here, even compensating us for the space. This place has been so deserted, devoid of customers. We were struggling financially. Thanks to you, we can breathe a bit easier.

Thats a relief to hear. However, on the flip side, I feel apologetic. Today was your day off, yet Ive inadvertently roped you into working

The owner playfully waved away the managers concerns. Oh, not at all. Isnt it customary to enjoy coffee after a meal at a caf?

With a mischievous smile, she coyly covered her lips with her hand.

The guy couldnt help but nod at her charming smile.

Well then, once you finish your meal, Ill personally whip up some refreshing iced Americanos for each of you. Just give me a moment, and Ill serve your food right away.

As if prepared in advance, the owner promptly laid out the delectable spread before them.

The table overflowed with an array of banchan, those delightful side dishes.

And stealing the spotlight was the savory soybean paste stew, the pice de rsistance of the meal.

Please, indulge yourselves.

Thank you so much, Chef.

Grinning ear to ear, the manager gazed at the owners retreating figure, but swiftly averted his eyes.

Ahem, I take it everyones starving? Go ahead, dont be shy, and dig in.

As if eagerly awaiting those words, the players seized their silverware, ready to savor the feast.

Black Flame Dragon devoured the food, swiftly devouring each dish.

Looks like you were really hungry. Hehe.

Nom, nom, nom.

Without bothering to retort to the managers remark, he remained focused solely on savoring the flavors before him.

Indeed, enjoy your meal to your hearts content. It will strengthen you for the final part of the interview, allowing you to give it your all.

The players hesitated, glancing at the manager with questioning expressions. Discussing murder over a meal was undoubtedly disconcerting.

Oh, my apologies. Perhaps this wasnt the right time for such a subject, right?

I suppose not.

Observing the managers expression of irritation, the players couldnt help but feel a sense of relief as he once again lowered his head.

If it made you uncomfortable, I apologize. However, please dont hold too negative a view of murder. After all, isnt it all part of encouraging unity among players?

Nevertheless, taking the lives of innocent civilians feels

Ryu Mins words trailed off, leaving the sentence unfinished. The manager couldnt help but scratch his nose.

Hmm, so its the fact that theyre innocent civilians that troubles you?

Yes

Dont fret. The targets Ive selected are criminals.

Really?

Yes. So, theres no need for you to bear the weight of a guilty conscience. Of course, as players aspiring to lead the world, you must possess a heart as resolute as Black Scythes, here.

The manager flashed a mischievous smile, proudly presenting Black Scythe.

It was evident that he was already eyeing a leadership role for him.

Well, if Black Scythe were to join the caf, he would quickly ascend to a prominent position.

In truth, Ryu Min, too, held aspirations for a leadership position.

Participating in the interview wasnt solely for the sake of obtaining the Rune of the Doppelganger.

It was a vital part of his plan to establish an alliance with the Players Haven Caf.

If I want to rally players, its only natural to climb to greater heights.

Securing a high-ranking position within Players Haven Caf posed little challenge.

Just like this impersonator before his eyes, he could easily reveal to them his true identity as the Black Scythe and successfully pass the interview.

However, that isnt the approach I desire. I have no intention of joining by resorting to the killing of innocent civilians.

Regardless, ascending to a high-ranking position within Haven Caf could wait for another time.

For now, obtaining the Rune of the Doppelganger took primacy.

As the meal drew to a close

Did you enjoy your meal?

The owner approached with a playful smile, carrying a tray adorned with four iced Americanos.

Heres some coffee for a sweet ending.

Thank you, Chef.

No, Im the one who should be grateful.

The managers laughter evoked a reciprocal smile from the owner.

However, the warm ambiance was short-lived.

As the owner disappeared into the kitchen, a sharp remark escaped the managers lips.

Well then, how about we enjoy our coffee and proceed with the final interview?

Who are we going to kill?

Black Flame Dragons question elicited a sly grin from the manager.

Originally, if any of you had someone you wished to eliminate, I planned to make them the target. However

Taking a deliberate sip through the straw, the manager continued.

Since you claim to have no one in mind, were left with no choice but to abduct a preselected target.

Abduct?

Yes. After kidnapping the target, well find a suitable location to dispose of the body. Then, the four of us will work together harmoniously, tearing the target to pieces. If you accomplish that, you will pass the interview.

The plan seemed straightforward when put into words.

After all, they had killed multiple individuals during the 4th round.

But reality felt different.

-Killing innocent civilians in real life Its rather unsettling. However, if we do it together instead of acting alone, the burden of guilt may weigh slightly less.

Ryu Min read everyones thoughts starting with the manager; however, even the impersonator, who had committed numerous acts of fraud, hesitated to soil his hands with blood.

With an interest solely in money, he held no inclination for murder, so it was natural to be concerned.

Well, eventually, once he establishes a notorious reputation as the Doppelganger, he wont need to rely on murder and such.

While the impersonator worried about murder, there were others who didnt.

A middle school student with a natural inclination for killing held a different perspective.

-If its not an interview but a real-life situation, its a breeze. Whats the harm in eliminating an ordinary civilian criminal? It wont even make a dent in my reputation.

To Black Flame Dragon, who had already committed murder in reality, it appeared to be a trivial matter.

Have you finished your coffee?

Yes.

Shall we get up then?

As the manager rose from their seat, the players followed suit.

The owner appeared with a radiant smile.

Oh, leaving so soon?

Yes, weve had a satisfying meal. Boss.

Youre welcome to stay a little longer.

No, thank you. We have urgent matters to attend to

Just as the manager spoke, an unexpected expression crossed his face, as if experiencing discomfort in his stomach.

Oh no, I must have eaten too much Where is the restroom?

Oh, if you go around the corner, youll find it.

Boss, may I ask for a favor?

A favor?

Could you prepare the car for me? As you can see, Im in a rush

Of course, Ill be glad to help.

The owner readily accepted the valet request and took over the keys.

As for the manager he immediately left for the restroom.

The owner walked to the van parked in front of the caf and opened the door.

Creak

As she leaned into the drivers seat to get in

Ugh!

Someone from behind grabbed the owners neck with a strong forearm.

Before she could even identify the assailant, the owners struggle ceased as she slumped down.

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