Gi-Gyu wanted to retain his humanity, but why? The ones living near his house, the non-players, were like the old him—weak and powerless. If he were still weak, or if he returned to being powerless, what could he have done if someone powerful had decided that he and his family were “acceptable sacrifices?”

This was why Gi-Gyu needed to make an effort to protect the non-players. He was a human, so he had to protect his fellow humans. Well, at least those who were innocent and deserved to be saved.

Gi-Gyu was deep in thought when Heo Sung-Hoon asked, “What are you thinking about so hard?”

“It’s nothing.” Gi-Gyu gave him an awkward smile.

Sung-Hoon smiled as well and then abruptly thanked him. “Thank you.”

“Pardon?” Gi-Gyu asked in confusion.

Sung-Hoon explained, “I’m talking about how you promised to protect other people. The truth is, none of us wanted to put the non-players at risk. But we had no other choice, as you’re the only one here who can make these decisions.”

Gi-Gyu looked at Sung-Hoon and reassured him, “Please don’t worry.”

Gi-Gyu didn’t explain further, but it was...