Solo Leveling

Part 1. The E-rank Hunter

"E-rank Hunter" Sung Jinwoo.

It was a title that followed him wherever he went.

Even as a Hunter, his abilities were barely above that of an ordinary person. If it wasn't for his slightly more durable constitution or his slightly increased healing factor, there was but a little difference between him and a non-Hunter. As such, his Hunting career was riddled with variety of injuries. There were even times where he toed the line between life and death itself.

But he was not a Hunter because he enjoyed the job.

It was dangerous, filled with ridicule, and the pay was disappointing.

No. If it wasn't for the fact that the Hunter Association provided support for the medical bills of his mother, he was more than ready to give it up and start an ordinary employment as an ordinary person.

But how could he, a man in his 20s with no special talents or background, afford to pay the medical bills that amounted to several million won a month[1]?

You could say he had no choice in the matter.

And so today, with a silent cry in his heart, Jinwoo took part in an Association-supervised Raid, same as any other day.

Hunters who operated in the same area knew each other well. This was due to the collective gathering of all Hunters in the area whenever a Gate opened up. And today, the Hunters who've gathered shared a cup of coffee while greeting each other.

"Oy, Mr. Kim, over here."

"Ooh, Mr. Park, what are you doing here? I thought you were done with the Hunter business."

"Ah that... The wife just got pregnant with number two."

"Hahaha, is that so? Well, nothing better than a Raid to fill the pockets of a Hunter!"

Both Mr. Kim and Mr. Park laughed.

"You know, it seems like the Association's been calling us less and less lately. Wonder if the rate of Gate appearances decreased?"

"Eh, nonsense. It's because the Guilds have been working harder than the Association lately. Whenever large sums of money's involved, you just know the Guilds pounce on'em with that fiery look in their eyes."

"Well then, I guess this Raid being supervised by the Association means it'll be pretty safe, right?"

With a slight concern, Mr. Park took a look around the area. A Gate ignored by a Guild meant low pay, and a low paying Gate meant low difficulty. Of course, there was nothing in life that was 100% certain. Similar to Mr. Park, other Hunters in the area shifted their eyes with nervousness.

"Perhaps..."

As he finished the coffee, Mr. Kim suddenly waved to someone he saw approaching in the distance.

"Oh, wait, look who it is. Mr. Sung! Hey Mr. Sung!"

Other Hunters also looked at the newcomer with familiarity and relief.

"Hello."

It was Sung Jinwoo.

Briefly greeting Mr. Kim with a nod, Jinwoo continued his walk. After he passed, Mr. Kim lightly chuckled and loosened his worries.

"So Jinwoo came. Then this place should be safe."

With his eyes widened, Mr. Park asked Mr. Kim.

"What? Is Hunter Sung Jinwoo that strong?"

"Ah, Mr. Park wouldn't know. He started the job a little after you left. There's no Hunter here who doesn't know Sung Jinwoo."

"That strong? Why is he working under the Association, then? Why not freelance or join a large Guild?"