Solo Leveling with Copy Ability

In front of the Korean Hunter Association headquarters, a throng of reporters from both national and international media gathered, their cameras and microphones at the ready. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation as journalists, dignitaries, and curious onlookers waited for the press conference to begin. Massive LED screens on nearby buildings displayed live feeds, ensuring that every detail of this unprecedented event would be broadcast to a global audience.

The press conference commenced with President Gu Gonhee taking center stage. With a steady, authoritative tone, he recounted the harrowing events of the previous day, the sudden, devastating attack that had left entire city blocks in ruins. He detailed how, in the midst of chaos, Markus Tenebris and Sung Jinwoo had arrived on the scene. Gu Gonhee explained that during the melee, Markus had heroically severed the right arm of an aggressive Ice Elf that had launched a vicious assault, and, without delay, administered potent healing magic to restore his life force. His words painted a vivid picture of a night when raw power met desperate necessity.

Following his address, Sung Jinwoo stepped forward to shed light on a deeper, more ominous threat. He explained that a cabal of highly intelligent monsters had begun targeting the world's most powerful hunters, a phenomenon that could destabilize global security if left unchecked. Jinwoo issued a clear directive: any hunter who felt imperiled by these malevolent forces should immediately contact the KHA or, if possible, come directly to Korea. His measured words carried both a warning and an offer of sanctuary, emphasizing the urgent need for unity among the hunter community.

When the press turned its attention to Markus, Gu Gonhee was quick to elaborate on his contributions. "Hunter Tenebris, in his remarkable way, has summoned 300 Doom Knights to protect the hunters arriving in Korea, and an additional 200 are on standby for those unable to travel," he declared. He emphasized that each of these summons possesses power equivalent to that of an S-rank hunter, offering not only security but also a formidable line of defense. His explanation was delivered with a mix of admiration and pragmatic resolve, underscoring the significance of Markus's actions.

The revelations sent shockwaves throughout the media. Reporters and officials alike expressed both amazement and cautious optimism. Headlines blared about how this new security apparatus could safeguard a nation once on the brink of collapse. Experts speculated on the potential of such overwhelming force to deter future threats, while the public marveled at the spectacle of raw, necromantic power being harnessed to restore order.

International news channels provided live analysis, their commentators struck by the boldness of the operation. An American anchor remarked, "Hunters Tenebris and Jinwoo have not only saved lives but redefined modern warfare." A British analyst added, "The integration of such potent forces into national defense marks a turning point in global security dynamics; the world will never be the same." The gravity of the situation was echoed in every broadcast, capturing the attention of viewers worldwide.

Online, the buzz was equally intense.

[Global Forums – Live Discussions]

HunterNet Thread: "Guardians of a New Age!"

ShadowEmperor01: "Markus's ability to summon over 500 Doom Knights is unprecedented. These forces are next-level!"

NecroGod99: "Jinwoo's call for help resonates with every hunter out there. Together, their powers could reshape the destiny of the high ranking hunters."

FireLord88: "Absolutely astonishing! This is what happens when raw power meets unwavering resolve. Kudos to Markus and Jinwoo!"

HunterFanGirl: "I can't stop watching, this is like witnessing legends in the making!"

FireMage82: "Anone knows how to get one of those Doom Knights? Asking for a friend in dire need."

As the conference progressed, a wave of high-ranking hunters began to flood into Korea. Several Hunter Associations reached out to the KHA, eager to request access to the powerful Doom Knights for their own defense. Analysts on international news channels debated the implications of such a concentrated force, with some experts lauding it as a necessary evolution in global defense, while others warned that it could also precipitate a new era of militarized power struggles among nations.

Amid the global clamor, the press conference concluded with a sense of cautious optimism. Gu Gonhee's final remarks stressed the importance of collaboration and unity in the face of emerging threats. The message was clear: while the world had been shaken by the chaos of unchecked gate breaks and monstrous invasions, the combined might of hunters like Markus and Jinwoo promised a future where even the most formidable adversaries could be subdued. The international community was left with the image of these two necromancers, icons of raw, unyielding might, standing as bulwarks against an uncertain future.

As the live feeds faded and the crowds began to disperse, the world continued to buzz with speculation and admiration. Social media hashtags such as #ShadowSavior, #HunterRevolution, and #NewEraOfDefense dominated the digital landscape. In every corner of the globe, from the bustling streets of New York to the ancient alleys of Rome, people debated the legacy of Markus and Jinwoo. While some marveled at the ingenuity and might of these heroes, others remained wary of the potential ramifications of such concentrated power, a power that, in the end, could either safeguard humanity or reshape the very fabric of global order.

Markus stepped out of his private vehicle onto the sprawling construction site, where his Gothic Castle had finally taken shape. The building was an imposing masterpiece of heavy Gothic architecture, a labyrinth of towering spires, intricately carved gargoyles, and arched windows that seemed to peer into the soul of the onlooker. Massive stone walls, built from ancient, weathered bricks, converged to form grand halls and deep, shadowed corridors. Every detail, from the flying buttresses that supported the structure to the stained-glass windows that bathed the interior in colored light, spoke of timeless craftsmanship and dark elegance.

As he walked through the courtyard, Markus paused to survey the castle's formidable exterior. The construction company had outdone themselves, creating a fortress that could rival the legends of old. Determined to ensure that the castle was not only beautiful but also impregnable, he extended his elemental prowess. With a series of focused gestures, he reinforced the walls and fortifying the battlements. The elemental energy surged over the stone, fusing with it to create an extra layer of protection that shimmered faintly in the twilight.

Satisfied with the structural enhancements, Markus contacted several high-end furnishing companies. Within just two days, the castle's interior was transformed into a regal residence. Plush velvet drapes, ornate chandeliers dripping with crystals, and intricately carved wooden furniture filled the vast halls. Grand dining halls, cozy libraries, and expansive ballrooms emerged, each room designed to reflect the castle's dark, aristocratic style. The atmosphere was one of quiet opulence, a perfect blend of elegance and foreboding power.

Outside, the castle's defenses were further accentuated by the strategic placement of Markus's most powerful allies. Atop the highest parapets, three majestic dragons, a Fire Dragon with scales ablaze like molten lava, a Lightning Dragon whose body crackled with electric energy, and a Frost Dragon shrouded in a perpetual mist of ice, perched proudly in specially designed alcoves. Each creature, a living embodiment of elemental fury, served as both a guardian and a symbol of Markus's formidable power. Their watchful eyes scanned the horizon, ready to unleash devastation on any who dared approach.

Even more striking was the special platform erected at the very summit of the castle, reserved exclusively for Kamish. This elevated dais, crafted from dark stone and adorned with arcane symbols, provided the perfect vantage point for the resurrected dragon. Kamish, a fearsome hybrid of death and shadow, surveyed the surrounding lands with an aura of ancient authority, his presence a constant reminder of Markus's triumph over the past and his command over the undead.

Inside the castle, the throne room exuded an atmosphere of austere grandeur. Massive stone columns, draped in velvet and lit by flickering torches, framed a raised dais upon which sat a magnificent throne carved from black marble. Here, Markus took his seat, his eyes glancing over his status, knowing that each enhancement and skill upgrade had further cemented his position as an unyielding force.

[STATUS]

Name: Markus Tenebris

Titles: Lord of the Undead, Master of Shadows

Race: Divine Human

Class: Arch Magus

Level: 122

Exp: Approximately 8.5M / 12M

Free Stat Points: 600

Core Attributes

STR: 5,200

AGI: 5,300

END: 6,400

INT: 8,500

WIS: 6,200

LCK: 2,500

Resources & Regeneration

HP: 64,000

MP: 750,000

SP: 94,000

Regeneration Rates:

HP: 7,500 HP/min

MP: 30,000 MP/min

SP: 5,000 SP/min

Defensive & Mobility Abilities

Arcane Aegis (Lv. 4):Absorbs 80% of incoming elemental and magic damage. Reduces 60% of physical damage

Void Traverse (Lv. 10):Instantaneous teleportation up to 1 km with a 2-second cooldown

Enhances spatial awareness

Ethereal Wraith (Lv. 3):Grants intangibility and invisibility, allows passage through solid objects, and temporary phasing out of physical/magical attacks

Combat & Summoning Mastery

Grave Lord (Lv. 6):

Unified skill fusing Undead Summoning, Shadow Reservoir, and Undead Army ControlBase summon cap increased to approximately 1,300 units (base 1,000 increased by 5% per level)Shadow Reservoir Capacity boosted to about 13,000 units (base 10,000 increased by 5% per level)Grants a passive Monarch's Domain bonus (all hybrids receive a 50% stat increase)

Shadow Exchange (Lv. 3):

Tactical flexibility to swap positions with hybrids/undead

CQC Mastery (Max)

Cold Weapon Mastery (Max)

Portal Manipulation (Lv. 7):

Creates portals to any previously visited location, including different worlds visited in gates

Mastered Arcane Skills

Master of Arcana (Lv. 8): Full control over all primary, secondary, and copied arcane elements

Metamorphosis Mastery (Max): Versatile shape-shifting into multiple hybrid or singular forms

Soul Harvest (Lv. 10): Absorbs fallen enemies' souls to regenerate mana and empower summoned undead

Superior Healing Mastery (Lv. 2): Rapid healing, curse and ailment removal, limb regeneration

Ageless Body (Max): Immunity to aging, illness, and life-draining effects

Celestial Wings (Lv. 4): Six obsidian-black wings that provide unrivaled aerial agility

After looking over his status page Markus evolves the skills of Soul Harvest and Void Traverse.

Soul Harvest Evolution – Soul Vortex: Markus's Soul Harvest has evolved into Soul Vortex, a formidable upgrade that now manifests as a massive vortex of siphoning energy, spanning a radius of 1 kilometer around him. In this state, every foe slain, whether by Markus himself or through the might of his undead and hybrid forces, is instantly absorbed into the vortex. The absorbed souls are not wasted; they permanently bolster his core attributes and augment the overall offensive and defensive capabilities of his army. With each enemy integrated into his essence, his strength, agility, and resilience, along with the damage output and fortitude of his summoned forces, see continuous and irreversible enhancements.

Void Traverse Evolution – Void Rift: Void Traverse has similarly transformed into Void Rift, drastically extending its range to 5 kilometers. This evolution enables Markus to teleport across vast distances in the blink of an eye, providing him with unparalleled mobility on the battlefield. Moreover, the moment he materializes at his destination, Void Rift grants him a brief window of invulnerability and heightened awareness, critical seconds during which he can reposition or launch decisive counterattacks. This strategic advantage allows him to dominate engagements, outmaneuver foes, and exploit any lapse in enemy defenses with lethal precision.

Synergistic Impact on Markus's Arsenal: Together, these evolved skills, Soul Vortex and Void Rift, synergize to create a nearly unstoppable force on the battlefield. Soul Vortex continuously fuels Markus's growth, permanently elevating his overall power and that of his legion with every fallen adversary absorbed. In parallel, Void Rift enhances his battlefield presence, allowing him to strike from unexpected angles and rapidly capitalize on openings during critical combat moments. The combined effect of these advancements not only solidifies his status as a transcendent Arch Magus but also redefines the parameters of strategic dominance in the hunter world.

At the Gothic Castle, the imposing headquarters of the Shadow Legion, a week had passed since the press conference, and Korea was abuzz with international intrigue. Thomas Andre and Lennart Niermann had already landed on Korean soil: Thomas Andre, carrying an elegant set of daggers intended as a gift for Jinwoo, and Lennart Niermann, keen to secure a contingent of Doom Knights for transport back to Germany via a C-5B provided by German Army. Markus agreed to provide 50 Doom Knights. The atmosphere in the castle's grand dining hall was both celebratory and tense, with every corner of the ancient structure humming with the subtle power of its undead occupants.

As the four S-rank hunters concluded their dinner, Jinwoo broke the quiet with his characteristically deadpan tone. Leaning forward, he asked Markus if it was truly necessary to station Doom Knights on every available corner of the castle. His words carried a hint of amusement tempered by genuine curiosity, reflecting his ever-pragmatic approach to battle strategy. The question, though simple, cut through the buzz of conversation, drawing immediate attention from those around him.

At that very moment, a group of Vampire Lords, currently serving tea with impeccable decorum, turned their cold, disapproving gazes on Markus. One of them, his voice carrying a regal note of admonishment, remarked, "We have informed the Death Lord of this very issue time and time again, yet he remains obstinate." The comment underscored the long-held belief among the Vampire Lords that their own prowess made them the superior custodians of the coven's safety, a subtle rebuke to Markus's continued reliance on the brute strength of the Doom Knights.

Meanwhile, Thomas Andre and Lennart Niermann casually roamed the dining hall, their eyes flicking over the ornate surroundings with quiet amusement. Their presence, emblematic of the international interest in the evolving hunter landscape, added an extra layer of tension to the proceedings. Laura, the ever efficient secretary, stood aside and shook her head slowly, a rueful expression crossing her features as she silently pondered where she had gone awry in her life to find herself amid such surreal circumstances.

In that charged environment, the disparate reactions painted a vivid tableau of the new order emerging in the hunter world. While Jinwoo's inquiry sparked a moment of light-hearted banter and disapproval from the Vampire Lords, the casual strolls of the international delegates and Laura's silent self-reflection underscored the multifaceted nature of power and responsibility. The Gothic Castle, with its heavy, imposing architecture and the living aura of death and magic, bore witness to these subtle exchanges, it was the silence before the storm.

Markus and the other three S-rank hunters suddenly came to an abrupt halt, as if some unseen force had paused their every movement. They moved silently to a balcony, and all eyes turned skyward as a massive gate began to manifest above Seoul. Its sheer scale dwarfed every previous gate on record, and for a long, tense moment, the world seemed to hold its breath. News feeds exploded with reports, and the international media broadcast live images of the gate, its towering presence dominating the horizon. After 2 days it was announced that no new gates were emerging anywhere else on the globe, the entire world now waited, collectively transfixed by the spectacle unfolding in Seoul.

In the ensuing chaos, the Korean Hunters Association swiftly initiated evacuation procedures, urging civilians to flee the danger zone. With the promise of no further gate breaks, all available hunters were called to converge in Seoul. While Jinwoo enjoyed a rare moment of leisure with Cha Haein in Japan, Markus remained vigilant, his Wraiths patrolling the city in anticipation of a new target. His focus sharpened when his scouts reported the unmistakable presence of the Beast Monarch, a towering figure draped in thick furs, even taller than Markus himself. The sight confirmed Markus's expectation, and he knew exactly what needed to be done.

Maintaining his characteristic cool and dark humor, Markus used his Shadow Exchange ability to slip alongside the Beast Monarch, careful not to disturb the unsuspecting young couple nearby. With a disdainful smirk, he muttered, "Cannibalism is a big no no in my book," before decisively shoving the beast aside. Almost immediately, both Markus and the Beast Monarch erupted in a surge of raw magical aura. Markus swiftly activated his Copy ability, targeting Rakan, the Beast Monarch, to absorb three critical skills: Spiritual Body Manifestation, Regeneration, and Portal Manipulation. Simultaneously, he summoned a squad of Doom Knights to secure the perimeter, ensuring that the intense confrontation would unfold without endangering the hunters around.

What followed was a brutal display of power as elemental projectiles rained down upon Rakan. Markus, with his superior stats and honed skills, methodically attacked, relentlessly using his Grave Lord ability to summon, strike, release, and resummon his undead forces against the beast. With it's high grade regeneration it would wasteful not to grind his precious skills. Rakan's once impressive regeneration initially kept pace, each severed limb quickly reforming under the monstrous creature's power. Yet Markus, with his calculated precision, exploited every opening. His on-camera commentary was both taunting and instructive, as he explained to the watching world the nature of Monarchs, their dominion over gates and their ability to traverse worlds, and how Rakan, the so called Beast Monarch, was among the worst of his kind.

As the prolonged assault wore on, a noticeable change occurred in Rakan. The once vibrant glow in the beast's eyes began to fade into a lifeless, dead fish-like stare; the ceaseless cycle of regeneration faltered until it finally ceased altogether. Seizing the moment, Markus called upon his Vampire and Wraith Lords, ordering them to converge and deliver the final blow. The combined might of his forces overwhelmed Rakan, and with a decisive, echoing roar, the Beast Monarch was annihilated. In that final act, Markus reaped a monumental reward: his victory granted him an additional 25 levels and boosted his stats by 30% of Rakan's total, a testament to his ruthless efficiency in battle. 

Grave Lord reached level 10 and was ready to evolve.