Original subtitles

Hey, can you not drive like a lunatic today?

You're worried about traffic laws?

You think people like us care about breaking rules?

Have a problem with our business?

Come on, man. You know the rules in the killing industry aren't fair.

We can only take shows sanctioned by the company.

We're not allowed to kill anyone underage? How lame is that?

You know what really pisses me off?

Cha Min-kyu, chairman of MK Entertainment, biggest name in the biz,

he made those stupid rules.

How are unemployed freelancers like us supposed to make a living?

I hate that word, "unemployed."

Shit, even talking about him makes me want to kill him.

There's an idea!

Should I send a bloody knife to Cha Min-kyu?

Why? You have a death wish?

You have no chance against Cha Min-Kyu.

Who do you think you are, Gil Boksoon?

Oh, wait, who's that hotshot from MK? He's got that insect name.

Cricket? Termite? What's his name again?

MANTIS

We need to make all the money we can right now.

It's not like we're getting a pension.

Just be grateful we can make a living.

Lots of the young guys out there are just sitting around

because all the work dried up.

Shit. Young ones out there really have the wrong mindset in this business.

How can they say there's no more jobs here?

They simply want to avoid hard work but still make money.

It's the very definition of privilege.

That's why they call you a boomer, brother.

Don't blame the young ones. They're not at fault here.

You should blame the fucked-up social structure.

No, no, the kids can't blame the social structure.

That's always been fucked.

And getting worse. These kids can't get work.

And me and you can't even make it with two jobs.

Then you're 50, and they start pushing you out.

It's a fucked-up situation. Hmm.

Mmm. Ah, welcome to this ridiculous life of ours.

What are you doing?

Taking a piss.

Ugh. We're running late. Hurry.

Huh?

Ah, jeez.

Would it have killed him to do a neater job? Shit.

Rule number one,

you are not allowed to kill anyone underage.

Rule number two,

you will only take on shows sanctioned by your company.

Rule number three…

…you have to attempt every show sanctioned by your group.

But… MK made those rules.

Those of us without any jobs can't afford to play by those rules, and you know that.

Not true.

I'm sure lots of groups are interested in men of your talent.

Any company in this industry that's not MK

isn't worth the paper their money is printed on.

So, my brother?

Did you at least make his death painless?

They did, I'm sure.

Your brother… didn't really put up much of a fight.

If you go that way, you'll have a tough time.

Wait.

Who are you?

What took you so long?

I get so bored waiting.

Oh.

Judging by those sickles in both hands,

you must be that hotshot I keep hearing about.

What do they call you? Grasshopper?

No, wait, wait. I know.

-The… the Ladybug! -Ah, sheesh.

The Mosquito? The Cockroach?

I'm the Mantis, you asshole!

That's "M" for motherfucker, "A" for kick your ass,

"N" for never call me Cockroach!

It's rude to call someone an asshole on your first meeting.

I think your parents didn't raise you right.

That aside, it's so exciting to finally see you.

It is?

Hyung.

It looks like this old man's scared of you, but thinks I'm easy.

What an honor!

It looks like me and my brother still have an A-ranking,

seeing as how you showed up in person, along with your young insect.

Don't get full of yourself, old guy.

His presence was requested only because we needed to chat before I go on vacation.

I know you arrived late intentionally…

…to make me angry.

So now I'm off.

Hold on. We need to talk. You can't leave yet!

Take a seat, and I'll handle this fast, okay?

Just a second, all right?

I like your style, cockroach.

Mm-hmm.

Ugh!

Nice job, Ladybug!

Don't call me that! It's Mantis.

Hello, it's the Chairman.

We'll need two cleaners right away.

Yeah, it was Mantis.

So it's really messy. Right.

Cut to the chase. I have other things to do.

Oh, I just want out of my contract, okay?

You and I know a seven-year contract is unfair,

considering my popularity.

You joining another company?

Hmm?

Or are you going solo?

-Well, um… -I get it.

This concerns your friend Jae-yi.

Come on. It's not exactly that.

Enjoy your vacation, okay? Hmm?

Wait, Chairman.

What is it?

What are you doing?

A bloody knife.

Or sickle, actually.

Wait a minute.

Were you… seriously gonna take that?

It's a joke!

Just kidding, Chairman.

Look at your face! Don't take things so seriously!

I'll enjoy the vacation. Thank you.

I don't think you have what it takes to make it on your own.

Being a skilled negotiator is key.

Hey, I just negotiated with my blade!

True, and it actually almost worked.

Wait. It did?

Should I… offer it to you again?

Or not.

When you return, let's change your contract.

And set up an interview for Jae-yi.

Whoa! For real?

So cool! Thank you!

Hey, you better not go back on that later, okay?

Amazing!

Remember… you're a man of your word!

All hail, Cha Min-kyu!

Let's go MK!

Whoo!

Hey! Didn't I tell you to have faith in me?

You're an MK employee now!

So while I'm gone, make sure you stay in shape.x

Wait, what? What do you mean?

MK was doing great. Why would it go under?

Wait, say that again.

Min-kyu?

Min-kyu is…

He's dead now?

Boksoon was the killer?

I'm so jealous.

I had him. I should've taken him out when I had the chance.

Hey! Where are you?

-You picking me up? -I can't. I'm working.

What? We haven't hung out in like forever.

MURDER SUSPECT WANTED

I've got some loose ends to tie up.

Talk to you later.

Jeez. I know, work is important.

Glad you have a gig.

Keep working by yourself. And make all that money for yourself.

-There he is! Over there! -Quite a crowd here.

Oh, right. Rumor has it MK tanked,

so other companies are staking out the airport for you.

Mantis, how's it going?

-Mantis? -We wanna talk about a contract.

Hey.

-Let's have lunch. -Whoa, folks, chill!

Take it easy!

Ah.

Good luck!

Ooh, that's hot.

Okay.

Hi, I'm back!

Nice work out there.

That smells awesome.

Mmm, galbi-jjim?

The great Han-ul returns.

I'll bet he really missed Korean food while he was away.

So I thought I'd cook enough to share with everyone.

So, you really think you can recruit him?

Even if MK dissolves into thin air, Han-ul won't join us here.

I didn't say that.

What's this?

EVICTION NOTICE

Oh, that.

We have to move out of the office at the end of the month.

Ugh, now I'll have to dust off my blades.

You're in no condition for that.

I'll take on extra shows, so get me some. Even D-level ones.

Sorry, kid.

Your talent is wasted here.

I would've been so screwed after my company fell apart,

and you took me in.

Ah! You kidding me?

The fucking elevator still doesn't work?

What's with the fashion failure?

Is it European?

You like that?

The latest line.

You love your boy Mantis now.

-Hi, Mantis! How have you been? -Yeah, yeah, yeah.

I know, it's been a while. Wait. What's that smell?

Oh, a certain someone made some food

because a certain fighting bug was coming.

-Whoa, galbi-jjim? -It's just galbi-jjim, yeah.

I had a ton… in Europe. That stuff was everywhere.

-Oh, sure. Yeah. -Hey, come here.

-The gang's waiting. -Dude!

-Can I leave my stuff here? -Oh, for sure you can. It's a pleasure.

Come on!

Get going.

I'll be right back.

Yeah, drink up!

Sorry dude, we're booked.

Open up, or I cut off your fingers.

He told us to stop letting people in because he doesn't like crowds.

What asshole said this?

The Mantis. You want in still?

Whoa, no. All cool.

So Jae-yi was this close to being reinstated to MK.

What's she gonna do now?

You seem pissed off about it. Why?

You know, if Jae-yi joined the company, then we'd be next for recruitment.

Oh, in your mind, we're equals, huh?

-You think we're the same? -Whoa, chill, bro!

Don't "bro" me, bro!

You think he has a drum for a head?

The least you can do is pay him before you hit him.

Hey.

Did all of you really think you'd be next once Jae-yi joined MK?

Uh-huh.

You all are crazy. You kidding me right now?

Yo!

This isn't something I owe any of you!

-Su-min, why are you keeping quiet? -What do you mean?

When Mantis was in Europe, you said we should all start a company.

Start a what now?

-Hey, we were just floating an idea. -Is that so crazy? We have you.

That's right. It's possible given your amazing reputation.

-Yeah, it could. -I knew it could!

Now hold on a minute. Hold on.

The boomers are getting absolutely destroyed.

It's a golden opportunity now!

Hey, he's great at fighting people, but running a company's different.

Stop talking. You're making it worse.

All I'm saying is maybe we want someone like Jae-yi to run the company.

She has her shit together and doesn't beat up her employees.

Listen, you punks. I said I'd look out for Jae-yi.

I never said I'd take care of all of you!

Why would I need taking care of, anyway?

What?

When did I ever ask you to get me work anywhere?

She's got a point. You can't say you'll take care of a woman

if she's already taken.

What do you mean by taken?

Ugh.

You're seeing someone?!

Holy shit.

Good for you, girl.

Whoa, so Jae-yi's dating a guy. Wow.

Well, congrats my friend.

I need a bathroom real quick.

Hey, hey.

-Nice job, dipshit. -What? What did I do?

Hey!

You think anyone can start a business?

Yeah?

Wanna know why I need to take care of you?

Because you don't have the chops to survive.

-What? -We certainly don't.

Yeah, no kidding!

You don't think I have the chops, huh?

No.

We're all tied up. It's even at eight each.

You kept score? That's cute.

But it's nine to seven. That's the truth.

And after that one time, you know, I won nine in a row.

Do you honestly think that you got me for real?

Look, you know I don't lie.

Shit!

Ah!

Ah!

Oh!

Come to think of it,

I also heard that Jae-yi beat Mantis back in the day.

Then why would MK bring up our boy Mantis first if that was the case?

You gotta believe me. That's the truth.

This is why Jae-yi got pissed off and left MK.

Whatever. Shouldn't one of us break up their fight at least?

Do you remember… when I lost to you those seven times?

It was eight.

Yeah, sure, seven.

But the truth is, I never got angry when I lost.

Wanna know why?

Don't read too much into it.

I was just helping you up. That's all.

Oh, of course.

So, uh… your boyfriend.

Is he a civilian, or does he work like us?

Of course, you have nothing to gain by dating anyone from this business.

Who cares? None of this matters.

MK is being destroyed right now.

Hey, like I've been saying for a while, MK is totally ruined.

All the investors have pulled out.

And all that remains are figurehead executives.

They have nothing right now.

A company like MK can't be stopped so easily.

Listen.

MK's Cha Min-kyu may be dead,

but they have that lady Cha Min-hee who works under him.

Oh, she's dead as well.

Boksoon handled that.

Fucking hell. That bitch has got a lot of issues.

Enough of that.

Hey, weren't you gonna talk with the guys about a new venture?

Yeah.

There might be this one guy.

Who?

Ah…

Care to join?

Watch 'em work To kill and make 'em hurt, like

Does she twerk? Now I can go to work, right?

Work, work, work, work

Watch 'em go to Work, work, work, work, work

Watch 'em work, kill and make 'em hurt

Does she twerk?

Old-guy party.

I give it my all, I get what I need…

Wait.

Oh.

-That who I think it is? -Yeah.

An honor to meet you.

Benjamin Jo, Meta Co.

"Meta Software."

-Oh. Oh. -Mmm.

So what can I do for you?

A massive fan, Mantis.

Sir, we're running late.

Ah, shit.

Looks like my meeting is starting up.

Man that bites.

But give me a ring.

Yeah, all right.

Why should I call this clown?

Hey, old man!

What's going on with you?

Not like I stayed in communication.

I've been really busy.

Chill, chill, chill out. Listen to me! It's not like you were calling either!

Old Man Dokgo? Mantis and the old man?

What's wrong with that? Nothing wrong with Mantis seeing his former teacher.

After all, Dokgo is the one who provided Mantis with his nickname.

-Right, queen? -Mmm.

I'm jealous. If I had a master like Dokgo, I'd be living in a better place than this.

You should respect the hospitality of our host.

-I'm just saying. -It's all good, you asshole.

Now shut up and eat your food.

So why didn't you tag along with him?

It's not like you're busy today.

Yeah, I have a date later. Hmm.

Wow, you've really been living it up in your retirement.

Good for you.

Hey, I'm not gonna touch it.

Shit, dude.

And this is the stuff you chose to put on display?

Ah, so ugly.

Shit! Relax, what the--

That's a horrible way to say hello to your favorite student.

Ugh.

This is no way to treat your guests.

You weren't invited.

You're too old for this shit.

Oh.

Mmm.

Bet that hurt.

Mm-hmm.

Oh, so you wanna go hard?

Hey, hey, look what I found.

That's not fair. I have two weapons and you only have one.

Okay.

That works.

Oh, shit!

Huh?

Ah!

Okay, enough with this shit. I'm hungry.

-Punk. -Ow!

-Ooh! -Ooh!

Eat your own food.

I took one fry.

You know, a steady diet of this crap at your age

would be bad for your health.

You'll clog up your arteries.

If you were so worried about my health, maybe you should've visited me.

I didn't, 'cause you and Min-kyu ended things on shitty terms.

I'm your student, and I was really worried about you.

And I felt bad about what happened.

Why did you feel bad?

You were just an intern at the time.

A company exec handed a bloody knife to the chairman.

And of course, the chairman accepted it.

Instead of paying with my life, I was allowed to retire,

so I'm happy with it.

But what went down between you two? You created the company together.

It was just personal.

Not your business, son.

Now wait a minute.

So if you're telling me you're retired,

then what was that douchey businessman doing rubbing elbows at your dumb party?

That shady dude.

Is this asshole investing in you? You starting something new?

He's young and very immature. He wants to learn more about the work.

It's not the money that interests him.

So what this means…

is MK's thinking of bringing you in once again.

You better answer my question.

Who knows if you'll see me again.

It's not like anyone's begging for you.

I have offers. You have no idea.

So, seriously…

Mr. Chairman.

Because chairman is what I should call you, huh?

Or should I put it this way?

So, Mr. Chairman, your company's in shambles.

Why aren't you making a move?

That's how I get them to come looking for me.

-Like you are right now. -Oh, so that's it.

Okay, since we're on the subject,

Mr. Chairman, I'd like to ask you for a favor.

Do you remember Shin Jae-yi? She was the top student in my class.

You want me to bring in someone

who left on her own?

I'd have done the same if I was in her shoes.

After all, you chose me, even though she won.

What we wanted

was you.

Who's we?

Stop!

Any thoughts?

It appears the results are in.

Let's go check out the video.

Hmm, Shin Jae-yi's moves are clean.

She more than lives up to her reputation as a strong performer.

See where the practice weapon in his right hand makes contact?

He connects with a shallow cut around the pancreas,

but even with a real blade, it would only be superficial.

Should we keep watching?

He knows Shin Jae-yi is right-handed.

So he forces her to block on her right side.

But what if they used real blades?

It's just not going to work out.

The gap between their skills will become even wider going forward.

And Shin Jae-yi

will never catch up to the skills of Lee Han-ul.

Come.

Teach your dual-weapon method to the boy instead.

He has the skills,

and your fighting style will be a great fit for him.

Unfortunately, this will be tough on both of you.

I can't include Shin Jae-yi under any circumstances.

Why? What's the reason?

Jae-yi was uncomfortable seeing you as well.

If she was uncomfortable,

she must've had reasons.

I can tell you why if you want.

Nah, I'm gonna pass, thanks.

If you hadn't come to me.

I would certainly have sought you out.

When I start the new MK, I'll need members of the younger generation.

And when my time is up…

your time will come.

Until then,

don't waste any time on her.

Why on Earth would you go on a date here?

-How did you find this place? -Your boss told me.

He said you take your gear whenever you go on a date.

I see.

Your boyfriend is so ugly.

Has he treated you wrong?

Want me to kick his ass?

You're fucking dead!

Ah!

Ah!

-Where? -Higher.

-Where? Right here? -A little…

-Or here? -Wait, stop. Ow! Ow! Ow! Ow!

I guess the old man still has some game, huh?

They don't say he's an old man just because he's old.

It's his years of experience.

Oh, okay then.

You said you didn't want to start a business. What made you change?

The old man plant a seed?

Listen to me. I know I'm good at this.

And the old man, he could get a lot more from a deal than me.

Isn't that why you left and started your own company?

Yes, I started a company, which I ruined.

Because you didn't have me back in the day.

As good as you are, you can't go it alone here.

These guys don't have the brains you have, but they do have some skills.

It's not like it used to be.

It won't be easy finding an investor, even for you.

Boom!

What do you think? Good?

What else does Jae-yi need to hear?

Uh…

What?

Oh, come on.

You just can't keep on wasting your life in that shitty office.

Get yourself out of there.

I can do it for you

if you're too scared to do it.

Oh, I see.

I had a hunch this was coming.

In addition to that,

it wouldn't be right holding on to you with how slow it's going here.

I'm sorry about all this.

Hey, hey, don't worry about me.

I'm fine.

I'll still visit, okay?

Sure.

-Su-min. -Yeah?

So there's this guy named A, and someone else who we'll call B.

-They're ball buddies. Childhood friends. -I'm guessing B has no balls, right?

And so, B says she has these dates, but it turns out that that's a lie.

So why would she lie?

My theory.

B knows that A is into her, but this information makes B uneasy.

You think it might be… you?

B clearly also likes A.

The answer is clearly that B has no passion for A.

For fuck's sake, what's taking them so long?

The great Mantis, so completely transparent.

Don't go just yet. Please.

-I've still got some fight left in me. -Please, sir.

-Jae-yi, just stay for three months. -Ah, shit.

-That's all I ask. -I can't.

Can't you at least stay on with us until I find someone?

Please think about it, Jae-yi, huh?

Hey! I can't believe you pricks are running late.

Wasting time stuffing your face!

We already prepped the presentation.

Hey, uh, how did you find us a major sponsor just like that?

We play Blood High School all the time, you know.

Blood… what?

What do you think from a professional standpoint?

-Hello. -Hello.

Here's a sequel to Blood High School, which is about to drop.

Speaking as a professional, I have to say that

it'd be more realistic for the characters to just die.

But why would any of us play a game no different from reality?

-True. No one would play it, for sure. -Exactly.

Wow. Pretty girl.

I need a 3D scan of you. Turn you into a game character.

Last year, a total of 317,600 people died.

This was a 12,340 or 4.2% increase over the past year.

As for our company's hit numbers… Should I continue?

Just get the next slide.

Okay, regarding the ROI--

Aren't these MK's old numbers from when they were still standing?

Murder-for-hire businesses are rarely profitable.

This is because of personal training and operating expenses.

Enough of this talk of costs. Not much to be made anyway.

Do you think it'd be okay if I personally watched you work?

-What? -If I saw it in person, it'd help a lot.

You know why I'm interested in this?

I don't think your reasons are important.

Exactly. It's not the profits or numbers that I find interesting.

TEAM MEMBER INTRODUCTION SHIN JAE-YI

I knew there was something about her.

Is she your girlfriend, Mantis?

Oh, sorry.

Rude of me to pry in private matters.

So…

…shall we move on to something interesting?

First up, Kim Dong-young.

-He's a veteran of seven years-- -Not him.

Put Jae-yi's charts up on screen, please.

You already ran a company. You know, I believe I've heard of it.

That's right. It was an up-and-coming gang back when the industry was successful,

but it failed due to the monopoly of MK.

Huh. Weren't you once an MK intern?

Ironic.

You were this hotshot back when you started,

but you moved to an unknown company.

-Why is that? -Hmm.

She didn't just move. She was the chairwoman.

A lot of the indie gangs would not have picked an employee of her caliber.

And the bigger gangs shunned her because she turned her company into a joke?

Did I get that right?

You know what? I will personally endorse her.

So can we now continue?

Exactly how good is she?

Maybe she should spar with Mantis?

Ah, sorry about that.

But all of this is the information I wanna know.

Jae-yi, if you were to maybe fight against your boy Mantis, who'd win?

God fucking damn it. We're not one of your fucking video characters.

Listen, I make video games. I know.

Oh, and I'm a killer for hire.

And the next time we meet, I'll make sure I kill you.

Okay!

We're out!

Huh?

-This motherfucker's completely crazy. -What's happening?

Hey, you two can stay.

I'm extremely curious.

What are you doing? I said, "Let's go!"

Don't make your boyfriend wait.

We're sorry.

Do you have any clue what this opportunity could've done for us all?

He's an annoying prick who wouldn't treat us like humans.

That little punk was disrespectful to us.

You kill people for a living. So their manners aren't awesome?

You're an idiot!

You really wanna work with someone who treats you so poorly?

Uh-huh.

What?

I want to do business with him.

Start a company.

Shit, I'll find you work, okay?

You know I'm the Mantis.

That's back when MK was getting you gigs and a salary.

I'm still the Mantis, MK or solo.

But what about us?

-You stay out if this. -This is exactly the point.

You're the fucking Mantis, right?!

So what are we?

-You want another ass kicking? -Whoa. Whoa, stop it. Stop it.

-And you too. Back off, okay? -No, it's not okay.

Now I'm telling you.

This is all because of you.

What?

It's so clear that Mantis got mad at him because of you.

It's right in front of your noses. Can't you see it?

Tell her you like her, if you do, or start going out with him.

Just stop acting like two stupid kids!

You two, I'm so sick and tired of this all.

I'm going back up there.

Why should I miss out because of you two idiots?

Su-min, Bboombye, what are you guys gonna do?

In or out?

Good for you. I'm out.

-Kim Dong-young, wait! -Hey! Hey, Dong-young!

Let go, damn it!

Where are you going?

He's a psychopath. You know it's true.

You blew it up there.

Here you go.

Whoa, this is…

Yeah.

The hell you mean, yeah? You must be an idiot.

All the time you spent at MK, and this is all you saved?

You've wasted a lot of money all these years.

The hotel reservations, fancy cars, luxury goods.

I sold my car, you know.

And this is what you drive now?

Does it even run?

How else do you think I got here, Jae-yi?

So take that car and join the company while the offer's still on the table.

Don't do this for me, got it?

Was that all cause of me?

Did you know too?

I guess that Su-min was right.

You pretended not to know because it made you uncomfortable.

And it's not you. I did this for myself.

I have a reputation as the Mantis, right?

I can't start working for another guy.

I should start my very own company, like MK, only cooler.

I won't make it awkward for you, okay?

So help me out a little.

-Why? -So now you wanna know why?

You are so talented.

At some things.

You're right. I'm good at some things, I guess.

I won't assist you.

We're doing this together, equally.

I'm chairman, though.

Oh.

It's only logical.

How would you book gigs without my experience?

Let's see you land one show.

MK clients would love to hear that I have a new company.

Deal?

Hey! I worked a lot of channels for these.

I'll allocate shows by complex evaluations of your strengths.

Don't fuck this up, because I will punish you severely.

-Yes, sir, Mr. Chairman! -Who, Mantis?

The departure of Dong-young has us all a little down,

so let's move on now.

-Yes, Ms. Vice-Chairwoman! -Vice-Chairwoman?

Hooray, extra points for Managing Director Yang.

I love how quickly she's learning.

Whoa, wait. You're a managing director?

Just one small thing, sir. Are these our only shows?

You'd think we'd start with more.

Work hard, then more work will continue flowing.

This one's an A, so I will handle it. This one's for Jae-yi.

-And this one's for Miss Yang. -Wait, the D-level show is mine?

This is a B, so I will take it as well.

As for this C-level one, let's have Miss Yang take it.

-What should I do? -A special undertaking just for you.

We'll have a company dinner, so make it yummy.

-What? -Just find a restaurant. I'm starving.

Yes, sir.

Does the company have a credit card yet, or do you have cash?

Let's go, Vice-Chairwoman, Keep up!

Yes, sir. Here I come, Chairman.

-What'll we eat? -Spicy sausage stew.

Let's have rice noodles instead.

-Okay, here we go! -Whoo!

Cheers!

Ah!

Chairman, tell me, what are we calling our company?

The name? What's the name?

MANTIS COMPANY

Let's do it.

Oh!

Whoa, what's with that lowball offer?

How are we supposed to make a living with that shit?

I have no choice if I'm going to bring MK back.

You think I have it easy?

Even when we get good shows on the books,

we just don't have the superior talent like you that we can rely on.

Honorable Chairman,

what if you were to outsource a few gigs to our company?

If MK doesn't want to take those on, okay?

Even better if they're A shows.

Looks like your chairman position has turned you into an adult.

The mighty Mantis is actually begging.

Let's get real. Are you helping us out or not?

On one condition.

Of course there's a catch here.

Ever since Min-kyu passed away,

the number of unemployed workers has doubled.

In other words, the era of playing by the rules is utterly over.

This is why I want to set things straight before more of the year goes by.

Now, if the very talented Mantis comes on board with us,

then I know things would go smoothly.

You mean you're gonna clamp down on other organizations like the old days?

Yeah, that's why people are so desperate to join you.

It all makes sense now.

Why did you bother leaving and causing yourself all that trouble?

Huh?

Huh?

Move aside.

I got this.

Why would you call off a show like that right out of the blue?

We already had a scenario all ready to go.

Come on. Don't be like that.

You're holding a big grudge against the target.

We can ensure their death is extra painful.

Leave it up to the--

Hello?

Damn.

Again?

Ugh, for fuck's sake. C-level or not, that was our first show in a while.

Ugh.

Oh, at least every now and then you're out there.

Look at my killer hands covered in eczema. That look right?

No.

Please say something to Mantis today.

Chairman is how he should be referred to on company grounds.

Who cares? This is between us.

Are you saying Mantis isn't one of us?

You're the one who calls him boss.

And besides, you also have a ton of complaints.

We're short on work, and our beloved chairman

has been taking on the few shows we manage to land.

-What about me? -What about you?

So Han-ul is best suited for those.

If it bothers you, maybe book shows yourself.

Hey, it's not that easy.

Not when Mantis does practically everything.

-At least Han-ul takes care of yo-- -Sh!

Man, if I knew things would turn out like this,

I would've gone with Dong-young.

Hey, Bboombye!

Which of you pricks left the recycling all over the hallway?

Welcome back, sir.

It was him.

Did you come here straight from a show?

I had another one on the way. This one's for you, Jae-yi.

I only got it because someone botched it. It needs to happen today.

It has to be now?

It's not difficult. You can do it.

Hey, Bboombye. Did you work on that scenario I told you to draft up?

Either of you guys want this?

-No?! -You kidding?

What the fuck is going on?

I saved that one just for you.

Huh?

Chairman, I'm…

I need a minute with you.

We can't keep this up.

If we're going to run a company, then we must give everyone a chance.

-So the punks have been complaining? -Oh, come on, it's not like that.

You're the chairman here.

And they all depend on you.

Yeah, I know.

But they all earn a salary, and they're not starving.

Is there any other boss better than me?

I hustle, trying to make the best deals,

and then split the money with each one of you.

Then quit hustling and offer some work to your workers.

We can't screw up even once.

We're just getting off the ground. It could ruin everything.

Huh? Why start a company if you don't trust anyone?

You could've booked work solo.

The only reason you are who you are is because the MK leaders had faith in you.

I'm not like those guys, okay?

How about me?

What about you?

Oh, please. You too? It's tiring as it is.

I take care of you and get you your fair share.

You said you wouldn't make things awkward, right?

The way you blatantly favor me makes it hard,

especially when you do it in front of others.

I get it.

I'll no longer be looking out for you.

Better?

You never trusted me with an A-level show.

You're so full of it.

You see everyone, including myself, as completely beneath you.

Okay.

You want me to make sure you book my A-level shows, right?

You still don't get it.

You pretend you're looking out for everyone,

when really, you despise them. It's disgusting!

Ah, shit.

So you think I'm disgusting?

Yeah?

Yo!

If it wasn't for me, you would've been completely screwed. You know that?

Isn't that why you ran out on Benjamin's opportunity,

and you joined up with a prick like me?

What?! Am I wrong here?

If you hate me looking down on you so much,

do better than me so that you can be the boss.

What? You want to fight me now?

Huh?

So you're always right.

You're a hell of a boss, Mantis.

How's it going with Jae-yi?

No problems between you?

You know, you keep talking as if you have something to share.

Oh, well, timing's perfect. Here's the partner.

Hello, Vice-Chairwoman. What is it?

It's all done. I'll head straight home without going to the office.

Oh, sounds good.

Hope you return home safely. So tomorrow--

Wait, um, hello?

You still wanna hear it?

The reason I said I'm not working with her.

Ugh, enough. Stop with the bullshit and just say it.

As for Min-kyu and me, wonder why it turned out that way?

You said the issue was personal.

I've got company.

I was angry…

…that someone was

better than me on the same team.

And who are you guys?

Who cares?

I don't want to know.

I really feel like shit today, okay?

So you better put up a fight.

Fuck all of you.

Having talent is an enormous gift.

However, having middling talent

is considered a curse instead.

Why did you pick Han-ul and not me?

Because if those were real blades you were using, you would've lost.

You don't understand, judging by your expression.

It's to be expected.

Someone once told me that

you'd never catch up to Lee Han-ul.

And I believe it.

And Shin Jae-yi will not catch up to Lee Han-ul. He's better.

"Never," you say?

Never.

Then let me fight him again.

Let me fight him… with a proper blade.

Do you have any idea what that would mean?

I do.

Would I have spoken up if I didn't get the meaning?

I don't dislike kids like you,

which is why I'm considering something.

If you'll allow me to go up against him?

No.

No.

If I'm setting you free or not.

Wait, you're releasing me?

Because I said I would fight Han-ul?

You pose an extreme risk.

The company needs to protect its greater assets.

You kids always cause incidents.

The chairman said that, right?

He's the one who said, "Never."

And you accepted it

because you're an idiot.

This is precisely what I'm talking about. I know you.

Jae-yi actually said she wanted to fight with a real blade?

We have much in common, she and I.

Particularly,

the way she will do anything to win.

Stop, right now.

This won't end well for you.

Go to hell.

I knew she thought that I was her competition.

But that doesn't mean she wants to kill me.

I didn't wanna kill Cha Min-kyu either.

If this is what you had to say, you should've told me earlier.

I had no way of knowing that both of you would remain so close.

Once you leave the company…

stay away from Han-ul.

Having an unstoppable force by your side…

it wouldn't be fair to you.

In the end, it was impossible.

I was unable to distance myself from Cha Min-kyu.

I blamed him,

but I also looked up to him.

Wait, wait, wait! Jae-yi!

Hey, Jae-yi. How are you doing? It's me, Dong-young. Hi!

It wasn't Jae-yi who stayed by my side.

I was the one who stayed by her side.

If you insist on keeping that woman by your side,

make sure you let her know very clearly…

the meaning of the word "never."

If you're done playing, show yourself now!

I told you, I'd do anything to satisfy my curiosity, didn't I?

Is Mantis really better than you are?

Why are you still employed by him?

With your skills?

-Has Jae-yi been in touch? -Uh-uh.

-Hey. -Hey, girl.

Where have you been?

Ah!

Come eat with us.

I don't feel like eating.

Mmm.

-Hey, you bastard. -Ah!

You were drinking yesterday. I'm sure of it.

I was not!

I know you were. You should've been working.

I told you I didn't drink. Besides, it's not like there's any work to do--

Okay, prick. You're talking back now? Outside. Let's go.

-Really? -Time to knock you down a notch.

Okay, stop. Let him finish eating.

Where have you been all this time? You didn't check in.

I had work to do.

What kind of work?

Just work.

So tell me, what did you do?

Did you hear me?

I work a lot. Do I have to report back to you?

-Yeah. -Why?

You really don't know?

Because you are not in charge.

I'm in charge.

So come.

Grab a weapon. Let's go.

-Yo. -Did you see that?

Shouldn't we be heading outside as well?

They packed their real blades.

Mantis said to stand by and remain here. Just stay cool.

But how do you think Jae-yi will match up against Han-ul right now?

We know how much she trained while Mantis goofed off.

Are you worried or just curious about the outcome?

Okay, whatever. Fuck it. I'm heading out.

Wait! Hey!

Don't push yourself.

Once this is done, you've got some answering to do.

You're talking as if you think you're gonna win.

I don't think it. I know it.

It's just a fact.

What the fuck happened here?

Okay, let's call it!

When did you get so good? Huh?

Okay.

That's… that's enough. I get it. You're good.

I'm thinking

you should be in charge now.

What do you say, Chairwoman?

Join me if you want.

Just like I predicted.

The movements are completely different when a professional does it.

She really is unique.

People today all have someone they really wanna kill.

Murdering vicariously.

How have you guys been doing?

Well, so MK outsources to us, which keeps us busy.

That's crazy.

If MK outsources to you, their employees only have cleanup duty left.

Hey, you're wasting your youth with Mantis.

Join us. There's no future with him. We are the future.

Get this. We found funding,

and our chairwoman is becoming a huge star.

She's the first-ever chairwoman in the industry.

Now that Mantis has totally hit rock bottom.

-I knew you did that. -Did what?

Expose Mantis and made him hit rock bottom, setting the stage for Jae-yi.

Girl, are you crazy? You think I have the power to do that?

What the fuck happened here?

That video you took that day.

Fucking hell, everyone in the industry has now seen it.

It wasn't me.

Then did Jae-yi make you do it? Did she tell you to upload that video?

The chairwoman was against it too.

It's like I said, the packaging is the difference when you run a business.

PR and marketing.

The rise of an unranked player who took down Mantis,

a notorious high-ranking player.

That, and you're a woman.

So I thought of the perfect nickname for you.

Hey, did you know mantises are eaten by lizards?

My new name is Lizard?

Killer, right?

Lizard is a perfect fit for your image. It pops. I love it.

-No, I prefer my real name. -We'll go with my name.

Let me be perfectly clear.

About those standards that MK is using,

do we really need to follow those rules, huh?

It's totally possible that they're fading away.

Still, the biggest influence on this business are their rules.

If you wanna play with the big boys, you should toe the line.

Principles are obsolete.

Consider it a traffic light, more or less.

But those traffic lights were set up by Cha Min-kyu, who's dead and gone.

Ah!

But Dokgo remains alive.

Is he really that special?

So maybe he might get eaten by the Lizard?

So what I'm supposed to get here

is it's not the regulations, but the person using them.

Am I right?

I just don't like the guy.

He shat on my offer.

So now,

follow my plan, Lizard. Don't mess this up.

Why waste your time bringing this over in person?

You could've sent one of your underlings.

You really shouldn't have.

You really let yourself go there, Mantis.

Thanks anyway.

I'm so pleased for these shitty jobs you're offering.

Fine with me.

I didn't say I refuse.

I said, "Thank you," didn't I?

Charming, man.

If you cooperate and do what I ask at the upcoming assembly session,

then you'll book all the A-level shows.

The gangs from Beijing are now all at war.

Well, I'm also from MK, so I'm all for having rules.

But I don't know whether my cooperation would have any influence.

I saw that video as well.

I've been hearing a lot of chatter about Jae-yi's company.

Maybe expansion is next for her.

Does that make you hungry?

You'll get a stomachache if you overeat.

You still don't want to return to the company?

Wow, this guy's hideous, am I right?

How many shows are we sending them these days?

We've greatly cut back.

Just one or two a month so it's not too obvious.

Cut everything off now.

Yes, sir.

Hey, boss.

If you're not going to MK because of me, then you don't need to worry.

It's all cool.

-Here's a big one for you. -Seriously?

So then you'll take the D-level one? Why would--

No one's forcing you.

No, I'm on it.

You sure you can handle it? No mistakes, right?

As the new managing director?

I'll prove that the managing director is ready for the job. Trust me, sir.

-Ah! Shit! My back. Ow! -Managing Director Yang!

Yeah?

-Doesn't look like you're managing this. -This is my show! Why are you here?

How could I stay away? This is totally fucked!

I just got started, okay?

Young man, please wait until this is done.

I'm not finished with the puny woman yet.

-One thing, Miss Yang. -Sh! Let's go!

If you can't wrap this up in one minute, then you're fired.

Ah!

-You have 30 seconds remaining. -What?!

Ah, shit!

Let's go!

Fifteen to go.

Ah!

Ten!

Nine!

Eight!

Seven!

Six!

Five!

Four!

Three!

Two!

One!

That was cutting it close.

CLEANER

Mantis calling.

Ordering a cleanup here.

Wow, these B-level shows are easier than I thought.

An A-level show, I bet, would be just as easy.

So are you really doing D-level shows, or were you kidding?

Where are you going? I'm not done talking to you.

Hello, sir.

Ah, yes. Mantis. Ah.

Wait. What's with the money?

-It's for you. Take it. -No, sir. That's not necessary.

Take it, I insist.

Oh, wow, um, I'm not sure…

Are you insane? Our organization is completely in the red.

Yeah. Here.

Get clothes for the assembly meeting.

Thank you, sir!

Is that Mantis?

-Wait. Who's that? -It's him! That's Mantis!

Wait, that's Mantis?

He's so good-looking.

Hey, Mantis.

Long time, no see.

-They say you started a company. -Yeah.

And you must be an employee. The only one?

Yeah, well, she's enough.

We're running late, right?

Yeah. See ya.

That short on work, huh?

I guess the Mantis isn't what he used to be.

Fuck them.

Stop it. You're embarrassing us.

This guy is hilarious.

-Let's go. Let's go. -What a loser.

Who's this?

Oh, welcome!

It's Chairwoman Shin.

I heard you came up with your own nickname.

-It's Lizard, right? -Hello, my old friend.

I did not nickname myself. Let's go inside.

For a long time now…

I stayed distant, never returning to this world of ours.

People were curious.

Why is Dokgo returning?

And why now?

It's true. A lot of people in our industry asked me to come back.

But it was mostly because of duty.

I have a duty to us all.

A calling for me to protect this, our legacy,

that our former chairman created.

Yes, that leader who drove me out.

When you say legacy,

you're actually talking about the rules. Is that right?

I'm Shin Jae-yi. JB group.

I know you well, Chairwoman Shin.

Something you'd like to say?

Only that you seem to be talking in circles,

using big words that say nothing.

Do you mind if I sum up the gist of your talk to everyone here?

Be my guest.

I heard you punks haven't been following our rules recently.

This is why, from now on,

MK promises to return things to the old days.

Those who don't follow the rules will get an ass-kicking.

Did that sum it up?

It's true. Thanks to the rules, we have fewer unemployed.

However, that resulted in work drying up for the smaller groups.

Because of that, their workers were forced to break the rules to survive.

Then those companies had to shut down.

So… are you recommending we abolish the rules?

You wish to bring in a new age of unemployed crews?

I'm simply saying that we should reconsider our approach

if the results are bad.

Does that not make sense?

Is that clear? Should I speak slower?

Why are we all just sitting here, debating about nothing for two hours?

Man, this stuff is too hard for me to understand.

So what do you say we wrap it up and go home?

Right now.

Listen.

"I will no longer abide by these rules."

Show of hands.

"We get rid of the need for sanctioned and approved shows,

even if the big companies lose some work."

"If the job will pay enough, I'm willing to become an animal

and kill anybody, even kids."

Show me your support now.

-It's settled then. We're done. -Hold on.

I never said we shouldn't abide by the rules.

We live by a code. Those who don't must be disciplined.

What?

But why is the punishment…

dished out by those at MK only?

In last year's Gil Boksoon event,

five compatriots were eliminated at the same time.

Then, without our consent,

MK performed an internal investigation on their own.

And then things got strange.

The director of MK and another company head lost their lives.

And even more suspicious than that…

the original chairman of MK, who created all those rules,

wound up dead as well.

Who thinks MK is still able to judge fairly?

Then who else should do it?

After all, punishments are only effective

when the strongest enforce them.

So let me take a crack at the punishing.

Are you sure you want to be in charge?

Yes.

Then, if you don't mind, will you prove your abilities right here?

Absolutely.

Whoa!

Oh fuck! Chairman!

Chairman!

Chairman! What the hell were you thinking? Why?

Open your eyes, boss.

This makes me very sad. Mmm.

Your friend saved you embarrassment today.

Chairman, please.

Open your eyes, Chairman.

You sure you weren't spared humiliation instead?

You can get up now.

Ow! Ow! Ow!

That hurts! I'm not joking.

You deliberately did that, right?

That will do. Nothing else for now.

She was really out for blood today.

If she keeps it up…

That's the plan.

…I won't be able to let it slide.

You know that Jae-yi doesn't want that at all.

It's just the curiosity of that immature prick.

And then what?

And that was it?

Yes, let's talk soon. Yeah.

I kept my end of the deal, so give us the A-level shows you promised.

Did you finish the ones I gave you?

So far, I've done one.

And the other one… is set to go down by sundown.

So complete those jobs, and then we'll continue talking.

Was there anything interesting?

Oh yeah.

Come here for a second.

Uh, what now?

Ah, sh.

It's nothing. You won't die.

Wait! Wait! Ah!

So wait. We have to go up against MK now?

Don't you think it's a bit soon?

We're just a new company.

When Benjamin got involved, I knew the risks increased.

We must play the role of obedient dog

until we have amassed enough strength to defeat MK.

What does that mean?

I'll settle my score with Dokgo eventually,

when I'm ready.

But first, I'll cut off the hand I grabbed.

Are you saying Mr. Jo will be on the list?

No one will be exempt from my list.

I see.

I knew…

I knew this day would come.

Yeah.

You should've closed shop once you lost your job and your relevance.

This breaks my heart, you know.

Just make it quick.

Before I die,

let me see the amazing Mantis show.

If you wanna see my skills, you should open your eyes.

Open that.

I'll send the head to the company.

But I'll be keeping the torso.

Are you feeling guilty or showing pity?

Come on. We need to replace his clothes. Time's running out.

You're definitely breaking the rules.

And this will cause major problems for you.

You think MK will pay much attention to a crappy show like this one?

This is fucking nuts.

We both know that all human lives are ranked.

What's my place then?

A C ranking?

That's fucking bullshit.

Just do it.

What are you even saying?

Kill me. Just do it already.

What?

So now I'm supposed to bow down

and thank you for saving this worthless life?

You seem to feel that it's someone else ruining your life.

But you chose to let yourself go.

If you really wanna know, you ranked a D.

Happy now?

You see that?

Besides, I don't believe you really wanna die.

If so, you'd probably fight me instead.

Go somewhere no one knows you.

Where you can remain a ghost forever.

I could've handled it if you wanted.

I know that.

OLD MAN DOKGO

Hey, old man.

So, Chairman, what's up?

I've wanted to get in touch with you.

Those jobs were completed.

Jae-yi did what?

She sent me a message.

I'm not following.

You're not actually gonna take it, are you?

Since I received this from a junior,

it's my duty to respond in kind as a senior.

Are you kidding?!

What are you talking about, old man?

I said if you impede us, I won't go easy.

That prick Benjamin is playing both of you right now!

I'm not getting played, just playing along.

Okay, listen carefully. Listen to me.

So maybe this can all be settled peacefully without blood on your hands.

And how would I do that?

If I can get to Shin Jae-yi,

make her recant and take the blade back, would that work?

And how would I possibly benefit from that?

You'll get

the Mantis.

A homecoming with MK.

You have one day to get this settled.

LEE HAN-UL

Okay.

What is it?

Tell everybody about an upcoming funeral.

Good evening, Chairwoman Shin.

-I'm glad you came. -How are you doing, sir?

Go on inside.

Can I talk to you?

About Bae-soo.

I did that.

He'd been doing unsanctioned shows after he closed shop.

So why exactly should I care?

Wait?

You saying I'm at fault?

No, it's all on me.

The knife you sent the old man the other day.

That was someone else's idea, right?

It's my issue.

Take it back.

Why should I?

Because I don't want to go to your funeral, okay?

Are there any more reasons why I should listen to you?

After all, I rank higher.

Did you really hate me when I ranked higher?

Is that why…

why you wanted me dead?

Dokgo told you that?

Well, I couldn't stand you.

Or myself.

Why couldn't I get a chance? Why was it you all the time?

And why did you, a fucking prick, stay by my side like some fucking moron?

Can you explain that?

If you fucking hated that I remained by your side like a fucking moron, then…

why didn't you just leave?

That would be running away.

I didn't wanna run from you or anyone.

Even when I lost, I extended my hand to you.

Know that?

One should only grab hands from the same height.

We're past convincing each other with words, right?

Outside.

-Whoa. Hey! -What the hell is going on?

-What the fuck? -Wh… what the…

Oh my God. I don't understand.

Oh my.

Thank you so much… for attending my funeral.

What's happening?

Wait, um, what? I'm not getting involved.

I…

It's been a while.

Ah, this is unexpected.

No need to cancel my funeral.

And MK knows that I'm alive.

-No doubt they'll send a new killer. -What the hell do you think you're doing?

Mantis, I did some thinking after we spoke.

I realized

if I can't be someone who is needed,

I knew

I'd rather not be anything.

I'd rather not exist.

Su-min, please leave us alone.

You really screwed it on this one.

This isn't something I can cover up for you.

You know that, right?

I know.

It's a total shit show.

Jae-yi sent me this one.

Figure I'd reuse it for you.

And I'm supposed to take it.

Listen…

I'm only approaching this quietly because of who you are.

When are you gonna meet with Jae-yi?

I'll be meeting her first, then you.

Call once you have a location and a time.

God, it's freezing.

How did you feel when you sent Min-kyu that knife?

Oh, about the same that you feel at this moment.

It feels like crap for everyone, both sender and receiver.

You're bound to receive the bloody knife from the person who was closest to you.

Do you want to destroy her or protect her?

Yeah.

If you want to protect something, then you just do it.

Hey, boss!

Boss!

Then again, that crafty senior of yours is a strong one.

Wait, repeat what you just said.

Old man, listen. I sent that knife you gave me to Jae-yi.

TOMORROW AT 5 MK

Things will be messy no matter what I do.

So now I'm gonna mess things up a little.

Don't forget your car keys.

I want you to have that old clunker.

Why are you speaking like I'm never seeing you again? See you tomorrow.

I'm going.

Come to think of it,

B also liked A, or so I think.

What did you say?

A and B you mentioned, who were buddies long ago.

Well, that's…

that's what C, who might have had a crush once on A,

thinks anyway.

See you tomorrow.

LEE HAN-UL

You on your way?

This isn't necessary.

Just saying we might wanna even our odds.

I'll wait on the first floor, okay?

Before we go in, we should chat.

He's waiting for you upstairs, Mantis.

Are you not going up?

I still have time.

The chairwoman came in already and proceeded upstairs.

Ah, shit.

What's wrong?

Expecting someone else?

Think you'd have a chance if it was a two-on-one fight?

Actually, this will work out nicer.

Oh yeah?

I'll just kill you right now before she gets here.

Mmm.

Listen.

I'm gonna tell you how things will proceed.

Before the door is fully opened, I will be lunging at her.

If you find an opening with me,

you need to go for it.

Mmm!

Ah!

What's wrong? Stings a bit?

Shin Jae-yi, what are you doing?!

I wanna be clear, Chairwoman Shin.

This isn't a two-on-one fight.

First, it's just me and Mantis.

Unfortunately, he must fight in front of what makes him weak.

He's trying to get you angry.

Mind games, that's all.

Stay focused!

What the fuck is your game?!

Fuck you.

No one agreed to a two-on-one.

This is one-on-one-on-one.

Are you serious?

It's been a while, Shin Jae-yi.

I spoke the truth.

I told you to quit spending time on her.

No!

Ah.

So much work to land a single blow.

Now his legs are just as messed up as yours.

Looks like you're both at a disadvantage.

It seems Jae-yi's smarter than you are.

And I'm still here.

Look, old man. I didn't wanna do this.

But you have to learn…

that I'll never stop.

Look at me.

Don't kid around!

So make me fight you for real.

Ah!

Ah! Ah!

Don't look at me like that.

Retire.

Let's end it at that.

Retire.

Too much to go through again.

Look, old man. I don't wanna kill you.

That's the dilemma here.

This won't end until one of us dies.

Oh!

Did you really have to do that?

You have a habit of pitying others…

and that makes them miserable in your presence.

When you extended your hand to me back then, it was out of pity.

I knew you let me win the fight.

I regret it at times.

I should've pretended not to know.

Maybe I should've just taken your hand.

I'm not sure where that would've led.

Jae-yi…

…you did good.

You've done everything you wanted.

You did great.

Uh…

It's a cruel world out there.

The strong prey on the weak.

And the weak are eaten alive.

How do we survive in a world like this?

By following the example of the world.

We should be cruel and powerful.

So what do we need to get started on this path?

Authority!

Money!

Our parents' money!

Parents' money. That's a good one.

Authority and wealth, you don't need those to gain power.

Those are the trophies power gets you.

Here's your first step to success.

Being able to time things right.

We live in a world where yesterday's friend becomes today's enemy.

And today's enemy is tomorrow's ally.

Sometimes we are the prey,

and sometimes we're the predator.

We must be ready to take a stand and fight back

and know when to avoid a fight.

Just knowing the right time to strike

begins your successful path.

Fantastic speech, sir.

I sure hope that this heartfelt message reaches the youth.

Thanks.

Real nice job out there.

You liked the message?

Most definitely. It struck a chord.

The section about knowing the right moment to strike.

Of course. That was the important section.

-The MK takeover, is it going well? -Yes. We'll be finished very soon.

Congrats.

I really picked the right one for the job.

Raising you has brought such joy.

I owe it all to you, sir.

Give me a status report tomorrow.

Have a good day, sir.

When's our time to strike?

Soon.

Oh!

Huh?

I passed it off

to an up-and-coming group needing a show.

Didn't I tell you, motherfucker,

that the next time you saw me, you'd be dead, huh?!