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Got Dropped in a Ghost Story, Still Gotta Work — Part 2
Secretiv_Sorceress · saltgoblin & I_Love_Kim_Soleum
Completed
Horror
4.9
326 chapters
558 views
A pop-up event for some 'modern fantasy' media I loved so much that I even took a precious day off work to attend. On that day, I ended up transmigrating as a character in that very fantasy world. As none other than a newly hired employee at a famous large corporation! A dream job with great benefits, an excellent salary, and even kind and... Got Dropped in a Ghost Story, Still gotta Work. Part 2.
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I'm an Infinite Regressor, But I've Got Stories to Tell
Audio chapters (163) · 61–90
61
Chapter 269
Following the successful rescue, the Disaster Management Bureau confirms that Assistant Manager Lee Seonghae has regained consciousness in reality, thanks to the 'dying in Sekwang Special City Subway' gimmick. The party members wake up in a secret room within the Fox Counseling Room, a space intercepted by Ho Yuwon from the Bureau. Kim Soleum (Roe Deer) wakes up after an hour, appearing as a monster in a black security uniform. Kim Soleum explains the situation to the agents, noting that Go Youngeun (Agent Peppermint) helped facilitate the escape. Ho Yuwon behaves evasively when questioned about the selection of personnel, implying that individuals like Go Youngeun and Jang Heowoon are being tied to his specific project. Assistant Manager Eun Haje suspects Ho Yuwon is using the investigation as a lure to keep people bound to his goals. The group discusses the physical consequences of the Body Casino; Lee Seonghae has regained consciousness but has lost control over her legs, which remain 'held as collateral.' Kim Soleum also loses control of his legs but maintains mobility through a black smoke-based movement ability. Kim Soleum realizes with dread that his emotional connection to the horrors of Sekwang Metropolitan City is beginning to fade, a symptom similar to what occurred before Lee Seonghae's recovery. Lee Seonghae expresses gratitude and proposes using the Annex to manufacture assistive equipment for her legs and Kim Soleum's future needs. Ho Yuwon agrees to help them use the Annex's Twilight Grade Darknesses secretly, provided they have internal cooperation. The chapter concludes with the group meeting Park Minseong in the Security Team's living quarters. Eun Haje reveals the group's new objective: they need to steal something from the company.
Guest access includes first 17 of 163 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
14:42
Chapter 269
Following the successful rescue, the Disaster Management Bureau confirms that Assistant Manager Lee Seonghae has regained consciousness in reality, thanks to the 'dying in Sekwang Special City Subway' gimmick. The party members wake up in a secret room within the Fox Counseling Room, a space intercepted by Ho Yuwon from the Bureau. Kim Soleum (Roe Deer) wakes up after an hour, appearing as a monster in a black security uniform. Kim Soleum explains the situation to the agents, noting that Go Youngeun (Agent Peppermint) helped facilitate the escape. Ho Yuwon behaves evasively when questioned about the selection of personnel, implying that individuals like Go Youngeun and Jang Heowoon are being tied to his specific project. Assistant Manager Eun Haje suspects Ho Yuwon is using the investigation as a lure to keep people bound to his goals. The group discusses the physical consequences of the Body Casino; Lee Seonghae has regained consciousness but has lost control over her legs, which remain 'held as collateral.' Kim Soleum also loses control of his legs but maintains mobility through a black smoke-based movement ability. Kim Soleum realizes with dread that his emotional connection to the horrors of Sekwang Metropolitan City is beginning to fade, a symptom similar to what occurred before Lee Seonghae's recovery. Lee Seonghae expresses gratitude and proposes using the Annex to manufacture assistive equipment for her legs and Kim Soleum's future needs. Ho Yuwon agrees to help them use the Annex's Twilight Grade Darknesses secretly, provided they have internal cooperation. The chapter concludes with the group meeting Park Minseong in the Security Team's living quarters. Eun Haje reveals the group's new objective: they need to steal something from the company.
Guest access includes first 17 of 163 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
14:42
62
Chapter 270
Assistant Manager Eun Haje leads a clandestine operation to infiltrate the Daydream Inc. Annex to steal equipment for crafting specialized gear. The group, acting as the 'Equipment Phantom Thieves,' includes Kim Soleum (in the form of the non-human employee 130666), Eun Haje, Baek Saheon, and Lee Seonghae (smuggled inside Kim's wheelchair). The mission requires bypassing the Security Team and navigating the Annex, which is currently under lockdown on the second basement floor due to a failed containment of a Twilight Grade Darkness.
To gain entry, the group uses Daydream Potions to disguise themselves as 'Elite Team A.' The disguise is so effective that a new employee, Lee Seung-jo, mistakes them for the actual feared Team A members, including Assistant Manager Jin Nasol. They successfully pass the security counter by providing a specific access code for the Cuckoo Ghost Story on the 3rd basement floor.
Once inside the Annex, the group drops their illusions. The mission relies on several layers of deception: Director Ho's machinations have disabled CCTV on the 3rd floor, and Supervisor Park Minseong is prepared to provide cover. J3, the security sergeant, has already agreed to cooperate. The team's immediate goal is to reach the second basement floor to access the Darkness needed for equipment crafting. Lee Seonghae selects the first target: 'Cheerful Laboratory's Toy Maker' (Qterw-E-07), also known as the Abandoned Toy Store.
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16:07
Chapter 270
Assistant Manager Eun Haje leads a clandestine operation to infiltrate the Daydream Inc. Annex to steal equipment for crafting specialized gear. The group, acting as the 'Equipment Phantom Thieves,' includes Kim Soleum (in the form of the non-human employee 130666), Eun Haje, Baek Saheon, and Lee Seonghae (smuggled inside Kim's wheelchair). The mission requires bypassing the Security Team and navigating the Annex, which is currently under lockdown on the second basement floor due to a failed containment of a Twilight Grade Darkness.
To gain entry, the group uses Daydream Potions to disguise themselves as 'Elite Team A.' The disguise is so effective that a new employee, Lee Seung-jo, mistakes them for the actual feared Team A members, including Assistant Manager Jin Nasol. They successfully pass the security counter by providing a specific access code for the Cuckoo Ghost Story on the 3rd basement floor.
Once inside the Annex, the group drops their illusions. The mission relies on several layers of deception: Director Ho's machinations have disabled CCTV on the 3rd floor, and Supervisor Park Minseong is prepared to provide cover. J3, the security sergeant, has already agreed to cooperate. The team's immediate goal is to reach the second basement floor to access the Darkness needed for equipment crafting. Lee Seonghae selects the first target: 'Cheerful Laboratory's Toy Maker' (Qterw-E-07), also known as the Abandoned Toy Store.
Guest access includes first 17 of 163 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
16:07
63
Chapter 271
Section Chief Lee Jaheon leads Kim Soleum, Assistant Manager Eun Haje, Baek Saheon, and Assistant Manager Lee Seonghae through the Annex to locate equipment for research. They navigate through the Annex Basement Level 3 by using a non-standard route through emergency stairs to reach Basement Level 2, bypassing security. Due to Kim Soleum's special status, he cannot perceive the exit and must follow Eun Haje through the darkness. Upon arriving at B2F, they encounter Sergeant J3, who warns them to stay quiet and avoid areas under Security Team control. They arrive at E-07, the 'Cheerful Research Institute's Toy Maker,' a ghost story manifesting as an old toy shop containing knit dolls. After Kim Soleum uses a Pleasant Researcher ID card to repair the machine—removing a stuck earring—Lee Seonghae uses the device to manufacture a one-to-one scale knit doll version of herself. The doll briefly exhibits self-awareness before Lee Jaheon tears off its tag, rendering it lifeless. Lee Seonghae uses the doll's legs as prosthetic replacements, successfully regaining the ability to walk. Kim Soleum is unable to use the machine due to his non-human nature. As the group prepares to leave, J3 exhibits unsettling behavior, eyeing the toys, and a Clay Figurine—a failed quarantine ghost story—blocks their exit, emitting muffled cries that sound like Kang Yihak.
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19:41
Chapter 271
Section Chief Lee Jaheon leads Kim Soleum, Assistant Manager Eun Haje, Baek Saheon, and Assistant Manager Lee Seonghae through the Annex to locate equipment for research. They navigate through the Annex Basement Level 3 by using a non-standard route through emergency stairs to reach Basement Level 2, bypassing security. Due to Kim Soleum's special status, he cannot perceive the exit and must follow Eun Haje through the darkness. Upon arriving at B2F, they encounter Sergeant J3, who warns them to stay quiet and avoid areas under Security Team control. They arrive at E-07, the 'Cheerful Research Institute's Toy Maker,' a ghost story manifesting as an old toy shop containing knit dolls. After Kim Soleum uses a Pleasant Researcher ID card to repair the machine—removing a stuck earring—Lee Seonghae uses the device to manufacture a one-to-one scale knit doll version of herself. The doll briefly exhibits self-awareness before Lee Jaheon tears off its tag, rendering it lifeless. Lee Seonghae uses the doll's legs as prosthetic replacements, successfully regaining the ability to walk. Kim Soleum is unable to use the machine due to his non-human nature. As the group prepares to leave, J3 exhibits unsettling behavior, eyeing the toys, and a Clay Figurine—a failed quarantine ghost story—blocks their exit, emitting muffled cries that sound like Kang Yihak.
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19:41
64
Chapter 272
Kim Soleum and his companions encounter the 'Golden Jar of Canopus' (Qterw-E-195), a Twilight-grade Darkness in the shape of a lavishly dressed porcelain woman that uses precious metals as bait to lure victims to consume their organs. Kim realizes the jar has already consumed Kang Yihak-ssi, as the company likely viewed her as a sunk cost. Kim discovers that the earring he previously found was a piece of this entity, meaning he has been lured by the jar's bait. To avoid a massive containment failure or being caught by the Security Team, Kim uses his black smoke to catch and swallow all the falling jewels and porcelain shards as he breaks the figurine's head. The sergeant (J3) assists by swallowing the remaining fragments. Kim retrieves a mutated Kang Yihak-ssi from inside the jar, who is then secured in a wheelchair by Section Chief Lee Jaheon. Kim decides to separate from the group to avoid drawing attention, but keeps Baek Saheon under surveillance by grabbing his shoulder. The group moves deeper into the annex toward room E-404, the location of the 'I Offer a Sacrifice' ghost story. Kim performs the ritual using salt, rice, and olive oil, successfully obtaining 'Nostalgia Candy'—an item that could restore his physical state in Sekwang Special City. After giving some candy to Baek Saheon and intending to give some to the sergeant, the sergeant's walkie-talkie receives an urgent, cryptic message from Section Chief Kwak Jekang. Kwak warns that Director Cheong has discovered their infiltration and has dispatched their assigned Security Team member to deal with them. The chapter ends as an unknown voice from the Sprout Class knocks on the iron door of room E-404.
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18:17
Chapter 272
Kim Soleum and his companions encounter the 'Golden Jar of Canopus' (Qterw-E-195), a Twilight-grade Darkness in the shape of a lavishly dressed porcelain woman that uses precious metals as bait to lure victims to consume their organs. Kim realizes the jar has already consumed Kang Yihak-ssi, as the company likely viewed her as a sunk cost. Kim discovers that the earring he previously found was a piece of this entity, meaning he has been lured by the jar's bait. To avoid a massive containment failure or being caught by the Security Team, Kim uses his black smoke to catch and swallow all the falling jewels and porcelain shards as he breaks the figurine's head. The sergeant (J3) assists by swallowing the remaining fragments. Kim retrieves a mutated Kang Yihak-ssi from inside the jar, who is then secured in a wheelchair by Section Chief Lee Jaheon. Kim decides to separate from the group to avoid drawing attention, but keeps Baek Saheon under surveillance by grabbing his shoulder. The group moves deeper into the annex toward room E-404, the location of the 'I Offer a Sacrifice' ghost story. Kim performs the ritual using salt, rice, and olive oil, successfully obtaining 'Nostalgia Candy'—an item that could restore his physical state in Sekwang Special City. After giving some candy to Baek Saheon and intending to give some to the sergeant, the sergeant's walkie-talkie receives an urgent, cryptic message from Section Chief Kwak Jekang. Kwak warns that Director Cheong has discovered their infiltration and has dispatched their assigned Security Team member to deal with them. The chapter ends as an unknown voice from the Sprout Class knocks on the iron door of room E-404.
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18:17
65
Chapter 273
Inside a narrow isolation room, Kim Soleum and Sergeant J3 are confronted by a contaminated voice outside the iron door. The voice is Supervisor Park Minseong, who is reciting a children's story about Little Red Riding Hood using hand puppets. As the story progresses, the entity's true, monstrous nature emerges; a massive, tar-covered wolf beast with multiple snouts, eyes, and fangs bursts through the door. The beast attempts to consume Kim Soleum and Sergeant J3. Kim Soleum realizes that Director Cheong Dallae has orchestrated this situation to force him into a panic, which would trigger his ability to use the 'wiki' and revert him to his mindless 130666 state. To prevent this, Kim Soleum uses Nostalgia Candies—which restore a person to their healthiest state from the past ten years—and a Jade Bell artifact to combat the beast's corruption. The candies cause the beast's form to flicker into a man in a wolf mask before it melts away. Sergeant J3 regains his composure after self-administering a stone-like tranquilizer. Director Cheong Dallae arrives at the scene, blaming Kim Soleum for the commotion and threatening disciplinary action. However, Director Ho Yuwon intervenes, shielding Kim Soleum by claiming he was on patrol and accusing Director Cheong of using employees for personal ends. A tense verbal confrontation ensues between the two directors. Director Cheong implies she knows Kim Soleum cares for the victims and threatens to exploit his debt and his compassion by using Supervisor Park Minseong's contamination to manipulate him through a new employment contract.
Guest access includes first 17 of 163 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
15:33
Chapter 273
Inside a narrow isolation room, Kim Soleum and Sergeant J3 are confronted by a contaminated voice outside the iron door. The voice is Supervisor Park Minseong, who is reciting a children's story about Little Red Riding Hood using hand puppets. As the story progresses, the entity's true, monstrous nature emerges; a massive, tar-covered wolf beast with multiple snouts, eyes, and fangs bursts through the door. The beast attempts to consume Kim Soleum and Sergeant J3. Kim Soleum realizes that Director Cheong Dallae has orchestrated this situation to force him into a panic, which would trigger his ability to use the 'wiki' and revert him to his mindless 130666 state. To prevent this, Kim Soleum uses Nostalgia Candies—which restore a person to their healthiest state from the past ten years—and a Jade Bell artifact to combat the beast's corruption. The candies cause the beast's form to flicker into a man in a wolf mask before it melts away. Sergeant J3 regains his composure after self-administering a stone-like tranquilizer. Director Cheong Dallae arrives at the scene, blaming Kim Soleum for the commotion and threatening disciplinary action. However, Director Ho Yuwon intervenes, shielding Kim Soleum by claiming he was on patrol and accusing Director Cheong of using employees for personal ends. A tense verbal confrontation ensues between the two directors. Director Cheong implies she knows Kim Soleum cares for the victims and threatens to exploit his debt and his compassion by using Supervisor Park Minseong's contamination to manipulate him through a new employment contract.
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15:33
66
Chapter 274
Kim Soleum realizes his employment contract with Director Cheong is a lifetime contract of eternal labor in the Daydream Incorporated basement. Director Cheong asserts her control, stating that because Kim is part of Director Ho's project, he no longer has authority over other employees. She warns that despite his current affiliation, the Security Team will be waiting for him eternally. A tense confrontation ensues between Director Cheong and Director Ho; Director Ho offers to treat the heavily contaminated Supervisor Park Minseong in the Fox Counseling Room to demonstrate his devotion to the company, effectively countering Director Cheong's influence. Director Cheong warns Director Ho that desperation is a weakness and reminds Kim Soleum that her hands hold his contract before she vanishes. Two days later, in the Fox Counseling Room, J3 regains consciousness. He is devastated by Park Minseong's condition; Park has become so contaminated that his severed arms have healed bluntly, unable to regenerate normally. J3 reveals that the contamination is extreme, suggesting it has been ongoing for nearly thirty years, as standard Nostalgia Candy failed to work. J3 provides intel on Director Ho, noting his sudden appointment to the main office four years ago and rumors of his past at a branch office, as well as his influence over the A-squad. It is noted that Ho is under pressure from higher-ups to produce results by the end of the year. A meeting is held to discuss the Sekwang Special City Exploration Project. Director Ho proposes that entering Sekwang Special City will allow Park Minseong to recover by cutting off external contamination. Despite skepticism from Lee Jaheon regarding the ethics of using employees to expedite exploration, the mission is set. Kim Soleum decides he must achieve significant results to protect his affiliation from Director Cheong and plans to use Dream Essence Collectors during the expedition. The exploration team, including J3 and Park Minseong, enters Sekwang Special City.
Guest access includes first 17 of 163 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
16:40
Chapter 274
Kim Soleum realizes his employment contract with Director Cheong is a lifetime contract of eternal labor in the Daydream Incorporated basement. Director Cheong asserts her control, stating that because Kim is part of Director Ho's project, he no longer has authority over other employees. She warns that despite his current affiliation, the Security Team will be waiting for him eternally. A tense confrontation ensues between Director Cheong and Director Ho; Director Ho offers to treat the heavily contaminated Supervisor Park Minseong in the Fox Counseling Room to demonstrate his devotion to the company, effectively countering Director Cheong's influence. Director Cheong warns Director Ho that desperation is a weakness and reminds Kim Soleum that her hands hold his contract before she vanishes. Two days later, in the Fox Counseling Room, J3 regains consciousness. He is devastated by Park Minseong's condition; Park has become so contaminated that his severed arms have healed bluntly, unable to regenerate normally. J3 reveals that the contamination is extreme, suggesting it has been ongoing for nearly thirty years, as standard Nostalgia Candy failed to work. J3 provides intel on Director Ho, noting his sudden appointment to the main office four years ago and rumors of his past at a branch office, as well as his influence over the A-squad. It is noted that Ho is under pressure from higher-ups to produce results by the end of the year. A meeting is held to discuss the Sekwang Special City Exploration Project. Director Ho proposes that entering Sekwang Special City will allow Park Minseong to recover by cutting off external contamination. Despite skepticism from Lee Jaheon regarding the ethics of using employees to expedite exploration, the mission is set. Kim Soleum decides he must achieve significant results to protect his affiliation from Director Cheong and plans to use Dream Essence Collectors during the expedition. The exploration team, including J3 and Park Minseong, enters Sekwang Special City.
Guest access includes first 17 of 163 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
16:40
67
Chapter 275
The team prepares for an exploration of the Annihilation-sanctioned Disaster in Sekwang Special City. Kim Soleum assembles a group including Section Chief Lee Jaheon, Assistant Manager Eun Haje, J3 (the sergeant), and Park Minseong. Despite Agent Bronze's concerns regarding the volatility of contaminated members, the inclusion of J3 and Park Minseong is accepted under the condition that the team withdraws immediately if things go wrong. Kim Soleum introduces three Dream Essence Collectors smuggled by Director Ho, plus a fourth elite team collector purchased from Lee Jaheon to ensure high-grade extraction. During preparation, Kim Soleum uses a smoke wisp to communicate with Agent Choi, suspecting Choi withheld information regarding the underground laboratory. After a group transit, the team arrives at Midnight Station. The transition is successful: Park Minseong's contamination is resolved and his limbs are regenerated via C-grade potion, and J3 remains in his Security Team appearance. Kim Soleum uses leftover casino coins to have Park Minseong buy back his lost legs from a local pawnshop. To find a specific train mentioned by Go Youngeun, the team follows J3's suggestion to travel to a subsequent station rather than waiting at Midnight Station. They board an empty train and arrive at Late Night Station, which is revealed to be near Sekwang Technical High School, marked by a graduation ceremony sign.
Guest access includes first 17 of 163 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
16:40
Chapter 275
The team prepares for an exploration of the Annihilation-sanctioned Disaster in Sekwang Special City. Kim Soleum assembles a group including Section Chief Lee Jaheon, Assistant Manager Eun Haje, J3 (the sergeant), and Park Minseong. Despite Agent Bronze's concerns regarding the volatility of contaminated members, the inclusion of J3 and Park Minseong is accepted under the condition that the team withdraws immediately if things go wrong. Kim Soleum introduces three Dream Essence Collectors smuggled by Director Ho, plus a fourth elite team collector purchased from Lee Jaheon to ensure high-grade extraction. During preparation, Kim Soleum uses a smoke wisp to communicate with Agent Choi, suspecting Choi withheld information regarding the underground laboratory. After a group transit, the team arrives at Midnight Station. The transition is successful: Park Minseong's contamination is resolved and his limbs are regenerated via C-grade potion, and J3 remains in his Security Team appearance. Kim Soleum uses leftover casino coins to have Park Minseong buy back his lost legs from a local pawnshop. To find a specific train mentioned by Go Youngeun, the team follows J3's suggestion to travel to a subsequent station rather than waiting at Midnight Station. They board an empty train and arrive at Late Night Station, which is revealed to be near Sekwang Technical High School, marked by a graduation ceremony sign.
Guest access includes first 17 of 163 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
16:40
68
Chapter 276
The party arrives at Hanbit Library station in Sekwang Special City by train. The platform is covered in various A4 printed notices and handwritten memos, including a subway map that lists 'Hanbit Library' as a station renovated from a technical high school and residential district. The wiki describes the library as having opened its doors to bestow knowledge and information on the day of the disaster. Upon ascending the stairs, the party discovers an unnatural, massive cave made of interconnected bookshelves, illuminated by dim red mood lamps. Section Chief Lee Jaheon tests the area for traps with a rope, finding none. The team prepares to enter the bookshelf cave by tying a thread to the railing to mark their path and wearing masks. Assistant Manager Eun Haje provides a badger mask to Supervisor Park Minseong, while the sergeant refuses a specialized mask, opting for a plain dental mask instead.
To maintain library decorum, the party agrees to communicate via writing. As they navigate the labyrinthine shelves, the protagonist observes a window showing only pitch-black darkness, except for the glowing sign of 'Sekwang Technical High School.' After about 40 minutes of exploration, the protagonist notices that Supervisor Park Minseong is acting as he did in the old D-squad, causing concern. The protagonist discovers a strange pattern on the floor that can only be read by bowing down in a submissive posture; these are the 'Library usage rules,' which include: do not make the sound of footsteps, do not fall asleep, stare at the window, gain one thing and leave, harbor curiosity, and do not go down to the basement. After the protagonist consciously 'harbors curiosity' regarding the location of Exit 4, a new path opens. In the left fork of a junction, the protagonist spots a silhouette of a person in a school uniform running into the shadows and dropping a book titled '2000s Classic Horror Short Stories Collection.' This book is the key to entering Sekwang Technical High School. As the protagonist investigates, a man in a suit wearing a wolf mask approaches, commenting on the protagonist's ambiguous mask.
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14:28
Chapter 276
The party arrives at Hanbit Library station in Sekwang Special City by train. The platform is covered in various A4 printed notices and handwritten memos, including a subway map that lists 'Hanbit Library' as a station renovated from a technical high school and residential district. The wiki describes the library as having opened its doors to bestow knowledge and information on the day of the disaster. Upon ascending the stairs, the party discovers an unnatural, massive cave made of interconnected bookshelves, illuminated by dim red mood lamps. Section Chief Lee Jaheon tests the area for traps with a rope, finding none. The team prepares to enter the bookshelf cave by tying a thread to the railing to mark their path and wearing masks. Assistant Manager Eun Haje provides a badger mask to Supervisor Park Minseong, while the sergeant refuses a specialized mask, opting for a plain dental mask instead.
To maintain library decorum, the party agrees to communicate via writing. As they navigate the labyrinthine shelves, the protagonist observes a window showing only pitch-black darkness, except for the glowing sign of 'Sekwang Technical High School.' After about 40 minutes of exploration, the protagonist notices that Supervisor Park Minseong is acting as he did in the old D-squad, causing concern. The protagonist discovers a strange pattern on the floor that can only be read by bowing down in a submissive posture; these are the 'Library usage rules,' which include: do not make the sound of footsteps, do not fall asleep, stare at the window, gain one thing and leave, harbor curiosity, and do not go down to the basement. After the protagonist consciously 'harbors curiosity' regarding the location of Exit 4, a new path opens. In the left fork of a junction, the protagonist spots a silhouette of a person in a school uniform running into the shadows and dropping a book titled '2000s Classic Horror Short Stories Collection.' This book is the key to entering Sekwang Technical High School. As the protagonist investigates, a man in a suit wearing a wolf mask approaches, commenting on the protagonist's ambiguous mask.
Guest access includes first 17 of 163 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
14:28
69
Chapter 277
Kim Soleum (Roe Deer) finds himself alone in the Hanbit Library after being separated from his party. He is confronted by a man in a black suit and a Wolf mask. Kim Soleum recognizes the man as J3, specifically the former Elite Squad-B Leader from decades past, appearing here as a manifestation of the library's 'Darkness.' To maintain safety, Kim Soleum uses written communication. He attempts to pass himself off as a rookie from D-Squad, but the Wolf Leader reveals that in his era, Daydream Inc. only had Elite Squads (A, B, and C) and all others were expendable rank-and-file workers. Kim Soleum corrects this, explaining that in the 2020s, squads extend to Z. The Wolf Leader acknowledges the truth of the timelines meeting. They form a cautious partnership, guided by Kim Soleum's yarn. After experiencing a spatial loop where they return to the starting point, Kim Soleum deduces that the library reacts to user behavior. He uses the yarn to find a hidden message left by the library itself, which forms an anagram: "One Who Heads Towards the Path of Worship?" Following this clue, the Wolf Leader pulls a book from a shelf, revealing a dark, red-lit passage. Kim Soleum realizes the library's rules suggest they must obtain something to leave. He decides to touch the trigger book, <Masterpieces of 2000s Horror Short Stories>. As they read it together, they are both pulled into the ghost story within: the Sekwang Technical High School graduation. Inside the story, Kim Soleum finds a faded envelope containing a blue Dokkaebi flame. The flame reveals a message from the 'Cheongryong Team' of the Disaster Management Bureau, stating they failed and asking not to be searched for. The chapter ends with the Wolf Leader questioning if Kim Soleum is an agent of the Disaster Management Bureau.
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16:39
Chapter 277
Kim Soleum (Roe Deer) finds himself alone in the Hanbit Library after being separated from his party. He is confronted by a man in a black suit and a Wolf mask. Kim Soleum recognizes the man as J3, specifically the former Elite Squad-B Leader from decades past, appearing here as a manifestation of the library's 'Darkness.' To maintain safety, Kim Soleum uses written communication. He attempts to pass himself off as a rookie from D-Squad, but the Wolf Leader reveals that in his era, Daydream Inc. only had Elite Squads (A, B, and C) and all others were expendable rank-and-file workers. Kim Soleum corrects this, explaining that in the 2020s, squads extend to Z. The Wolf Leader acknowledges the truth of the timelines meeting. They form a cautious partnership, guided by Kim Soleum's yarn. After experiencing a spatial loop where they return to the starting point, Kim Soleum deduces that the library reacts to user behavior. He uses the yarn to find a hidden message left by the library itself, which forms an anagram: "One Who Heads Towards the Path of Worship?" Following this clue, the Wolf Leader pulls a book from a shelf, revealing a dark, red-lit passage. Kim Soleum realizes the library's rules suggest they must obtain something to leave. He decides to touch the trigger book, <Masterpieces of 2000s Horror Short Stories>. As they read it together, they are both pulled into the ghost story within: the Sekwang Technical High School graduation. Inside the story, Kim Soleum finds a faded envelope containing a blue Dokkaebi flame. The flame reveals a message from the 'Cheongryong Team' of the Disaster Management Bureau, stating they failed and asking not to be searched for. The chapter ends with the Wolf Leader questioning if Kim Soleum is an agent of the Disaster Management Bureau.
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16:39
70
Chapter 278
The Wolf Leader confronts Kim Soleum, revealing he has deduced Kim's identity as a former Disaster Management Bureau agent. After Kim claims to have retired, the Wolf Leader accepts this, noting that the Dokkaebi flame's recognition of Kim provides impeccable proof of his past. The Wolf Leader expresses no animosity toward agents, viewing them as people performing national duties. A blue trail of Dokkaebi flame, left by a former agent, emerges from a burned library card envelope to guide them toward Sekwang Technical High School. Upon arriving, the duo enters the school through an unlocked window in the 3rd-floor infirmary. The hallways are filled with the bodies of students, arranged in neat rows like corpses, though some gaps exist in the rows. On the 3rd floor, Kim recognizes the name tag of a student, Kim Sora, confirming they are in the same location as his previous dream. In the infirmary, Kim finds the window leads to the backyard. In the backyard, Kim digs under an azalea bush and uncovers a smashed Dokkaebi flame lantern and a decayed talisman. The talisman contains a frantic, incomplete message from a student regarding a ritual, suggesting the school was being used for human sacrifice. The talisman also identifies the agents involved as the 'Cheongryong Team,' a name Kim finds suspicious as the Emergency Rescue Squad is known as the 'Hyunmoo Team.' The Wolf Leader notes that the Cheongryong Team specialized in eliminating Darkness and sealing ghost stories, causing friction with other departments. Meanwhile, in the Gangwon-do branch's secret archives, Agent Choi successfully uncovers the forbidden records regarding the 'Annihilation-sanctioned supernatural disaster' and 'Sekwang Metropolitan City' by using a friendly Dokkaebi flame, before preparing to flee with Ryu Jaekwan.
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16:11
Chapter 278
The Wolf Leader confronts Kim Soleum, revealing he has deduced Kim's identity as a former Disaster Management Bureau agent. After Kim claims to have retired, the Wolf Leader accepts this, noting that the Dokkaebi flame's recognition of Kim provides impeccable proof of his past. The Wolf Leader expresses no animosity toward agents, viewing them as people performing national duties. A blue trail of Dokkaebi flame, left by a former agent, emerges from a burned library card envelope to guide them toward Sekwang Technical High School. Upon arriving, the duo enters the school through an unlocked window in the 3rd-floor infirmary. The hallways are filled with the bodies of students, arranged in neat rows like corpses, though some gaps exist in the rows. On the 3rd floor, Kim recognizes the name tag of a student, Kim Sora, confirming they are in the same location as his previous dream. In the infirmary, Kim finds the window leads to the backyard. In the backyard, Kim digs under an azalea bush and uncovers a smashed Dokkaebi flame lantern and a decayed talisman. The talisman contains a frantic, incomplete message from a student regarding a ritual, suggesting the school was being used for human sacrifice. The talisman also identifies the agents involved as the 'Cheongryong Team,' a name Kim finds suspicious as the Emergency Rescue Squad is known as the 'Hyunmoo Team.' The Wolf Leader notes that the Cheongryong Team specialized in eliminating Darkness and sealing ghost stories, causing friction with other departments. Meanwhile, in the Gangwon-do branch's secret archives, Agent Choi successfully uncovers the forbidden records regarding the 'Annihilation-sanctioned supernatural disaster' and 'Sekwang Metropolitan City' by using a friendly Dokkaebi flame, before preparing to flee with Ryu Jaekwan.
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16:11
71
Chapter 279
In the secret archives of the Gangwon-do branch, Ryu Jaekwan observes Agent Choi performing unauthorized research on cognitive erasure records. Choi acts nonchalant, pretending his presence is due to avoiding paperwork, but Ryu senses his underlying tension regarding the Sekwang Metropolitan City investigation. Ryu realizes that the current Hyunmoo Team replaced the missing Cheongryong Team, which had been tasked with the city's protection. Meanwhile, within the ghost story, Kim Soleum (Employee Dragon) is with Wolf Leader. Kim Soleum meticulously examines a torn talisman to memorize its pattern, suspecting it is the cause of the current instability. Wolf Leader suggests that knowing the future might cause it to happen, akin to the myth of Oedipus, and refuses to ask about the future of Daydream. Braun (the host) whispers to Kim Soleum, suggesting that killing Wolf Leader might somehow wake him up in reality, referencing the current state of Supervisor Park Minseong. As they climb to the school's Infirmary, they catch a student in a school uniform—the transfer student Kim Soleum had previously borrowed a uniform from—who appears expressionless and non-human. Realizing the school rules forbid spoken language and that outsiders are viewed as monsters, Kim Soleum uses a tattoo-based ability to manifest a school uniform and communicate via written notes on A4 paper. Through this, Kim Soleum discovers the horrifying truth: Sekwang Technical High School is not a real location outside, but a space swallowed by the Hanbit Library. The school exists as a localized section of the library, preserved within the bookshelves after being swallowed by the library's 'sanctuary' protection, implying the students were originally human inhabitants of the city.
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13:41
Chapter 279
In the secret archives of the Gangwon-do branch, Ryu Jaekwan observes Agent Choi performing unauthorized research on cognitive erasure records. Choi acts nonchalant, pretending his presence is due to avoiding paperwork, but Ryu senses his underlying tension regarding the Sekwang Metropolitan City investigation. Ryu realizes that the current Hyunmoo Team replaced the missing Cheongryong Team, which had been tasked with the city's protection. Meanwhile, within the ghost story, Kim Soleum (Employee Dragon) is with Wolf Leader. Kim Soleum meticulously examines a torn talisman to memorize its pattern, suspecting it is the cause of the current instability. Wolf Leader suggests that knowing the future might cause it to happen, akin to the myth of Oedipus, and refuses to ask about the future of Daydream. Braun (the host) whispers to Kim Soleum, suggesting that killing Wolf Leader might somehow wake him up in reality, referencing the current state of Supervisor Park Minseong. As they climb to the school's Infirmary, they catch a student in a school uniform—the transfer student Kim Soleum had previously borrowed a uniform from—who appears expressionless and non-human. Realizing the school rules forbid spoken language and that outsiders are viewed as monsters, Kim Soleum uses a tattoo-based ability to manifest a school uniform and communicate via written notes on A4 paper. Through this, Kim Soleum discovers the horrifying truth: Sekwang Technical High School is not a real location outside, but a space swallowed by the Hanbit Library. The school exists as a localized section of the library, preserved within the bookshelves after being swallowed by the library's 'sanctuary' protection, implying the students were originally human inhabitants of the city.
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13:41
72
Chapter 280
Kim Soleum discovers that the entities in the Sekwang Technical High School ghost story are actually human students trapped in a repeating loop. Through communication via writing, a rebellious student named Lee Gyeol reveals that Soleum’s presence and his act of moving Lee Gyeol to the infirmary have caused shifts in the school's mechanism, such as the teacher exiting the auditorium faster after Soleum killed it in a previous cycle. Soleum suspects the school's "teacher" is a monster made of stitched-together organs. While investigating the fifth floor with Lee Gyeol, Soleum discovers the gruesome remains of actual teachers—melted flesh and organs—arranged on the floor, held together by Talismans bearing the character for 'protect' (護). Soleum realizes these Talismans are related to the glass spheres (clear rewards) he received for clearing the 'In the Dark Shadow' game. A mysterious Black Silhouette (the Wolf Leader) follows them, initially pinning Lee Gyeol but retreating when Soleum shows him the conversation paper. Soleum and Lee Gyeol exchange real names. After returning to the infirmary, Soleum reverts from his contaminated state and meets with the Wolf Leader. The Wolf Leader discusses the
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15:33
Chapter 280
Kim Soleum discovers that the entities in the Sekwang Technical High School ghost story are actually human students trapped in a repeating loop. Through communication via writing, a rebellious student named Lee Gyeol reveals that Soleum’s presence and his act of moving Lee Gyeol to the infirmary have caused shifts in the school's mechanism, such as the teacher exiting the auditorium faster after Soleum killed it in a previous cycle. Soleum suspects the school's "teacher" is a monster made of stitched-together organs. While investigating the fifth floor with Lee Gyeol, Soleum discovers the gruesome remains of actual teachers—melted flesh and organs—arranged on the floor, held together by Talismans bearing the character for 'protect' (護). Soleum realizes these Talismans are related to the glass spheres (clear rewards) he received for clearing the 'In the Dark Shadow' game. A mysterious Black Silhouette (the Wolf Leader) follows them, initially pinning Lee Gyeol but retreating when Soleum shows him the conversation paper. Soleum and Lee Gyeol exchange real names. After returning to the infirmary, Soleum reverts from his contaminated state and meets with the Wolf Leader. The Wolf Leader discusses the
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15:33
73
Chapter 281
Kim Soleum finds himself in a surreal situation where he is caught between the B-Squad Leader (the Wolf Leader) and two strange entities: a Golden Mascot and a Sergeant with yellow pupils. Kim realizes the Sergeant is likely his own future self, and the Golden Mascot is a past version of himself, suggesting a phenomenon where contamination separates an entity's personality from the person. The B-Squad Leader observes these entities, judging them as non-human. After some tension regarding their identities, Kim manages to introduce the Sergeant as a member of the Security Team to avoid suspicion from the Wolf Leader. The group decides to move together, using Kim's yarn as a guide. Following the yarn leads them to a hidden passage revealed by a bookshelf, triggered by the Sergeant deciphering a red anagram. Lee Gyeol, a student who has been following them, warns them not to enter, noting that the library is not normal. Lee Gyeol provides a list of library rules, which mostly match known facts except for a seductive addition: "One Who Heads Towards the Path of Worship." The Sergeant and Kim enter a narrow, dark passage filled with bookshelves. Inside, Kim finds a button belonging to Eun Haje. Upon pressing it, a recording of Eun Haje plays, stating that the library wants a librarian and explaining the rule to "gaze at the window" (to see one's reflection). Kim realizes that one who reflects their face in the library window can become the librarian. Back in the main area, the Golden Mascot reveals it is Kim's past self, and the Sergeant confirms he is Kim's future.
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15:51
Chapter 281
Kim Soleum finds himself in a surreal situation where he is caught between the B-Squad Leader (the Wolf Leader) and two strange entities: a Golden Mascot and a Sergeant with yellow pupils. Kim realizes the Sergeant is likely his own future self, and the Golden Mascot is a past version of himself, suggesting a phenomenon where contamination separates an entity's personality from the person. The B-Squad Leader observes these entities, judging them as non-human. After some tension regarding their identities, Kim manages to introduce the Sergeant as a member of the Security Team to avoid suspicion from the Wolf Leader. The group decides to move together, using Kim's yarn as a guide. Following the yarn leads them to a hidden passage revealed by a bookshelf, triggered by the Sergeant deciphering a red anagram. Lee Gyeol, a student who has been following them, warns them not to enter, noting that the library is not normal. Lee Gyeol provides a list of library rules, which mostly match known facts except for a seductive addition: "One Who Heads Towards the Path of Worship." The Sergeant and Kim enter a narrow, dark passage filled with bookshelves. Inside, Kim finds a button belonging to Eun Haje. Upon pressing it, a recording of Eun Haje plays, stating that the library wants a librarian and explaining the rule to "gaze at the window" (to see one's reflection). Kim realizes that one who reflects their face in the library window can become the librarian. Back in the main area, the Golden Mascot reveals it is Kim's past self, and the Sergeant confirms he is Kim's future.
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15:51
74
Chapter 282
The Wolf Leader faces his future self, the Sergeant (J3), who has become a heavily contaminated, gaunt entity. The Sergeant attempts to restrain the Wolf Leader with claws of corruption, but the protagonist (Kim Soleum) intervenes, using a binding device to gag the Wolf Leader. The protagonist argues that the Sergeant shouldn't kill his past self, as it might damage their shared existence (the 'book' analogy). The Sergeant eventually relents. The Golden Mascot (a form of Kim Soleum) gestures toward a dark, red passage, proposing it becomes a librarian to allow others to leave. The protagonist suggests traveling together to find other team members instead. They descend a steep, dark passage made of bone and clay-like bookshelves. They reach a dead end containing a sign for a 'Materials Room' and a downward path labeled 'Place of Worship.' The Wolf Leader, having managed to loosen his gag, reveals the library's rule: 'Leave once I gain one.' He argues that the library seeks a librarian as a trade for a user's exit. He believes he can use his knowledge of his own future to prepare for/prevent his contamination, thus making him the ideal librarian to secure a way out for the others. However, the Sergeant rejects this, stating that the Wolf Leader is already him, and what has happened cannot be changed. The protagonist realizes they were all mistaken in their analogies: they aren't different pages of a book, but different forms of the same entity. The concept of 'Mirror Reflecting Truth' clarifies that the forms are not just past/future, but different aspects of one person. This realization collapses the illusion, returning the protagonist, the Sergeant, and the Golden Mascot to the central area. Kim Soleum realizes he has been both the rookie Agent Grapes and the Golden Mascot. They reunite with the former D-Squad and discover Brown has been accompanying them throughout the ordeal.
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17:23
Chapter 282
The Wolf Leader faces his future self, the Sergeant (J3), who has become a heavily contaminated, gaunt entity. The Sergeant attempts to restrain the Wolf Leader with claws of corruption, but the protagonist (Kim Soleum) intervenes, using a binding device to gag the Wolf Leader. The protagonist argues that the Sergeant shouldn't kill his past self, as it might damage their shared existence (the 'book' analogy). The Sergeant eventually relents. The Golden Mascot (a form of Kim Soleum) gestures toward a dark, red passage, proposing it becomes a librarian to allow others to leave. The protagonist suggests traveling together to find other team members instead. They descend a steep, dark passage made of bone and clay-like bookshelves. They reach a dead end containing a sign for a 'Materials Room' and a downward path labeled 'Place of Worship.' The Wolf Leader, having managed to loosen his gag, reveals the library's rule: 'Leave once I gain one.' He argues that the library seeks a librarian as a trade for a user's exit. He believes he can use his knowledge of his own future to prepare for/prevent his contamination, thus making him the ideal librarian to secure a way out for the others. However, the Sergeant rejects this, stating that the Wolf Leader is already him, and what has happened cannot be changed. The protagonist realizes they were all mistaken in their analogies: they aren't different pages of a book, but different forms of the same entity. The concept of 'Mirror Reflecting Truth' clarifies that the forms are not just past/future, but different aspects of one person. This realization collapses the illusion, returning the protagonist, the Sergeant, and the Golden Mascot to the central area. Kim Soleum realizes he has been both the rookie Agent Grapes and the Golden Mascot. They reunite with the former D-Squad and discover Brown has been accompanying them throughout the ordeal.
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17:23
75
Chapter 283
After merging back into his original self, J3 (the Sergeant) reflects on his fragmented identity, likening his time as the Wolf Leader to a 'damaged page' in a book. He experiences the return of sensation and emotion, which is described as a dull ache after long periods of numbness. Kim Soleum (Roe Deer) decides not to press J3 for his purpose for joining the company, choosing instead to offer gratitude for his help during the exploration. The team reconvenes, and Kim Soleum explains the events of the Sekwang Technical High School exploration, including the merging of identities. The group reaches the entrance of the Hanbit Library, leading Kim Soleum to conclude that the library’s various trials—including the doppelgänger encounter—were tests of worthiness to ensure visitors are wise enough to use the knowledge within. The team prepares to leave the darkness by taking Euthanasia Drugs. Before losing consciousness, J3 catches a glimpse of a hidden path and signs leading to a "Video Materials Room" featuring "Masterpiece Fairy Tales II," which triggers a memory of an entry method involving a specific movie. Upon waking in reality, the group meets Ho Yuwon. Kim Soleum successfully collects a high-grade golden liquid in a Dream Collector, a significant breakthrough for research. Surprisingly, J3's Dream Collector also contains liquid, though at a slightly lower purity due to his Wolf Leader state. The group notes that Park Minseong (Badger) is awake but still heavily contaminated and lacks regenerated arms. When Kim Soleum asks about the Emergency Rescue Squad (Cheongryong Team), Ho Yuwon reacts with extreme elation, suggesting the information is highly significant.
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14:10
Chapter 283
After merging back into his original self, J3 (the Sergeant) reflects on his fragmented identity, likening his time as the Wolf Leader to a 'damaged page' in a book. He experiences the return of sensation and emotion, which is described as a dull ache after long periods of numbness. Kim Soleum (Roe Deer) decides not to press J3 for his purpose for joining the company, choosing instead to offer gratitude for his help during the exploration. The team reconvenes, and Kim Soleum explains the events of the Sekwang Technical High School exploration, including the merging of identities. The group reaches the entrance of the Hanbit Library, leading Kim Soleum to conclude that the library’s various trials—including the doppelgänger encounter—were tests of worthiness to ensure visitors are wise enough to use the knowledge within. The team prepares to leave the darkness by taking Euthanasia Drugs. Before losing consciousness, J3 catches a glimpse of a hidden path and signs leading to a "Video Materials Room" featuring "Masterpiece Fairy Tales II," which triggers a memory of an entry method involving a specific movie. Upon waking in reality, the group meets Ho Yuwon. Kim Soleum successfully collects a high-grade golden liquid in a Dream Collector, a significant breakthrough for research. Surprisingly, J3's Dream Collector also contains liquid, though at a slightly lower purity due to his Wolf Leader state. The group notes that Park Minseong (Badger) is awake but still heavily contaminated and lacks regenerated arms. When Kim Soleum asks about the Emergency Rescue Squad (Cheongryong Team), Ho Yuwon reacts with extreme elation, suggesting the information is highly significant.
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14:10
76
Chapter 284
Kim Soleum (130666) confronts Ho Yuwon regarding the Cheongryong Team. Ho Yuwon reveals he has known about the team and his interest in Sekwang Metropolitan City from the beginning, suggesting a deep-seated grudge against the Supernatural Disaster Management Bureau. Ho Yuwon admits to previously providing counseling at a certain high school and directs Kim Soleum to explore the subway stations to discover what he is truly looking for. That evening, Kim Soleum meets with Disaster Management Bureau agents Choi Yo-won and Ryu Jaekwan in a secret container. They reveal that the Bureau's archives regarding Sekwang City were heavily censored, but they discovered that an Annihilation-sanctioned disaster occurred there, causing approximately 620,000 deaths in a single day. The disaster led to the Bureau sealing the city, which resulted in the total loss of the Emergency Rescue Squad, which was later reorganized into the Cheongryong Team (the Dispatch & Rescue Unit) to hide the previous team's fate. Kim Soleum provides details about a torn evil-warding talisman found in a glass lantern at Sekwang Technical High School. Agent Ryu Jaekwan identifies it as a powerful talisman that likely used 'Dokkaebi's Play' via a consecrated lantern to protect the school. To restore the high school's protection, the agents decide to unofficially create a new talisman. They travel to Ijeong Bookstore, a spiritual shop that provides divine artifacts to the Bureau, where Ryu Jaekwan used to work as a clerk. They enter the quiet shop to seek assistance.
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13:44
Chapter 284
Kim Soleum (130666) confronts Ho Yuwon regarding the Cheongryong Team. Ho Yuwon reveals he has known about the team and his interest in Sekwang Metropolitan City from the beginning, suggesting a deep-seated grudge against the Supernatural Disaster Management Bureau. Ho Yuwon admits to previously providing counseling at a certain high school and directs Kim Soleum to explore the subway stations to discover what he is truly looking for. That evening, Kim Soleum meets with Disaster Management Bureau agents Choi Yo-won and Ryu Jaekwan in a secret container. They reveal that the Bureau's archives regarding Sekwang City were heavily censored, but they discovered that an Annihilation-sanctioned disaster occurred there, causing approximately 620,000 deaths in a single day. The disaster led to the Bureau sealing the city, which resulted in the total loss of the Emergency Rescue Squad, which was later reorganized into the Cheongryong Team (the Dispatch & Rescue Unit) to hide the previous team's fate. Kim Soleum provides details about a torn evil-warding talisman found in a glass lantern at Sekwang Technical High School. Agent Ryu Jaekwan identifies it as a powerful talisman that likely used 'Dokkaebi's Play' via a consecrated lantern to protect the school. To restore the high school's protection, the agents decide to unofficially create a new talisman. They travel to Ijeong Bookstore, a spiritual shop that provides divine artifacts to the Bureau, where Ryu Jaekwan used to work as a clerk. They enter the quiet shop to seek assistance.
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13:44
77
Chapter 285
Kim Soleum (Agent Grapes), Agent Choi, and Agent Ryu Jaekwan (Agent Bronze) visit Ijeong Bookstore, a mystical brokerage for "Type, Paper" supernatural items. The owner, communicating only via a white right hand through a beaded curtain, accepts a 7-night suite voucher for the Flower Golden Resort in exchange for a book titled <■■ Decimal Classification>. This book, a manual for librarians, is used by Ryu Jaekwan to provide a blank page from its table of contents. Using his former experience as a bookstore clerk, Ryu Jaekwan enters the darkness behind the counter to perform a ritual, successfully crafting an evil-warding talisman on the page. The group later uses Kim Soleum's Golden Flower Resort to host five Dokkaebi flames, whose presence imbues the talisman with miraculous power. With the completed talisman, the group prepares to enter Sekwang Technical High School via a dream-based method using an illegal text file, rather than a direct approach into Hanbit Library.
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15:24
Chapter 285
Kim Soleum (Agent Grapes), Agent Choi, and Agent Ryu Jaekwan (Agent Bronze) visit Ijeong Bookstore, a mystical brokerage for "Type, Paper" supernatural items. The owner, communicating only via a white right hand through a beaded curtain, accepts a 7-night suite voucher for the Flower Golden Resort in exchange for a book titled <■■ Decimal Classification>. This book, a manual for librarians, is used by Ryu Jaekwan to provide a blank page from its table of contents. Using his former experience as a bookstore clerk, Ryu Jaekwan enters the darkness behind the counter to perform a ritual, successfully crafting an evil-warding talisman on the page. The group later uses Kim Soleum's Golden Flower Resort to host five Dokkaebi flames, whose presence imbues the talisman with miraculous power. With the completed talisman, the group prepares to enter Sekwang Technical High School via a dream-based method using an illegal text file, rather than a direct approach into Hanbit Library.
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15:24
78
Chapter 286
Kim Soleum (Agent Grapes) wakes up in a darkened classroom at Sekwang Technical High School, having successfully forced his consciousness to sleep to manifest in human form within the nightmare. He reunites with Agent Choi and Agent Bronze on the second floor. To move through the school without being detected by the
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15:32
Chapter 286
Kim Soleum (Agent Grapes) wakes up in a darkened classroom at Sekwang Technical High School, having successfully forced his consciousness to sleep to manifest in human form within the nightmare. He reunites with Agent Choi and Agent Bronze on the second floor. To move through the school without being detected by the
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15:32
79
Chapter 287
The protagonist, Kim Soleum (Grapes), observes a horrific entity outside the classroom window: the upper torso of Team Leader Park Hongrim, who apparently sacrificed her lower body to create talismans to protect the school. The school is being consumed by a corruption that defies the horror game's rules, with students being crushed and the building turning into flesh. Inside the classroom, Section Chief Lee Jaheon has turned violent, killing people. Realizing they must kill everyone to end the nightmare, Kim Soleum urges the agents to escape, but they are too selfless to commit suicide as suggested. Agent Haegeum uses her Dokkaebi flame to create a deceptive shadow to buy time while Agent Bronze attempts to repair the glass lantern. The illusion fails, and the 'teacher'—a massive entity made of fused bodies, including Park Hongrim's torso—attacks. Kim Soleum lures the monster away using glass beads engraved with 'protect,' momentarily revealing the true hallway through the shadows. On the 5th floor, Kim Soleum discovers a series of disturbing journals left by the teachers/agents, detailing a failed ritual to hold back the darkness until rescue arrived. The auditorium is found completely destroyed and transformed into a mass of flesh. Kim Soleum begins to be consumed by the floor. Agent Choi arrives and uses glass hand cannon bullets—which Kim Soleum realizes are meant for a rescue ritual—to purify the space, restoring the auditorium's original form to trap the entity within the horror game framework. Agent Haegeum provides Kim Soleum with the Four-Tiger Sword, instructing him to use its power as a student under direct invasion. Despite intense physical pain and his fingers shattering, Kim Soleum begins the sword chant to strike down the entity.
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17:40
Chapter 287
The protagonist, Kim Soleum (Grapes), observes a horrific entity outside the classroom window: the upper torso of Team Leader Park Hongrim, who apparently sacrificed her lower body to create talismans to protect the school. The school is being consumed by a corruption that defies the horror game's rules, with students being crushed and the building turning into flesh. Inside the classroom, Section Chief Lee Jaheon has turned violent, killing people. Realizing they must kill everyone to end the nightmare, Kim Soleum urges the agents to escape, but they are too selfless to commit suicide as suggested. Agent Haegeum uses her Dokkaebi flame to create a deceptive shadow to buy time while Agent Bronze attempts to repair the glass lantern. The illusion fails, and the 'teacher'—a massive entity made of fused bodies, including Park Hongrim's torso—attacks. Kim Soleum lures the monster away using glass beads engraved with 'protect,' momentarily revealing the true hallway through the shadows. On the 5th floor, Kim Soleum discovers a series of disturbing journals left by the teachers/agents, detailing a failed ritual to hold back the darkness until rescue arrived. The auditorium is found completely destroyed and transformed into a mass of flesh. Kim Soleum begins to be consumed by the floor. Agent Choi arrives and uses glass hand cannon bullets—which Kim Soleum realizes are meant for a rescue ritual—to purify the space, restoring the auditorium's original form to trap the entity within the horror game framework. Agent Haegeum provides Kim Soleum with the Four-Tiger Sword, instructing him to use its power as a student under direct invasion. Despite intense physical pain and his fingers shattering, Kim Soleum begins the sword chant to strike down the entity.
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17:40
80
Chapter 288
Following the use of the Four-Tiger Sword, the 'teacher' monster—a mass of twisted bodies including Team Leader Park Hongrim's upper body—collapses into a pile of flesh on the auditorium floor. Kim Soleum (Agent Grapes) suffers minor injuries, losing three fingers to the white Pure Yang energy. Agent Haegeum instructs Grapes to keep the sword, noting that the neutralization is temporary and the school's corruption remains. The group moves through the school, witnessing the worsening encroachment of flesh on walls and floors; they pass the remains of agents, including Agent Go Myeong, who appear to be dead. In Class 1-4, they find Agent Bronze feverishly engraving a glass lantern with a utility knife. They encounter Lee Gyeol, a student who has regained his memories. Lee Gyeol recounts the origin of the disaster: a series of terror alerts in 'Sekwang Metropolitan City' on May 4th, which was followed by a sudden communications blackout and strange, cryptic messages appearing on devices. He notes that a teacher had mentioned sending a rescue request to 'agents' before the chaos. Agent Bronze successfully completes the talisman-engraved glass lantern, which emits blue flames. Grapes realizes the original hiding place (the backyard) has been 'discovered' by the entity, implying a hide-and-seek mechanic. To find a new hiding spot for the talisman, Grapes decides they must head toward the passage connecting to the Hanbit Library.
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15:06
Chapter 288
Following the use of the Four-Tiger Sword, the 'teacher' monster—a mass of twisted bodies including Team Leader Park Hongrim's upper body—collapses into a pile of flesh on the auditorium floor. Kim Soleum (Agent Grapes) suffers minor injuries, losing three fingers to the white Pure Yang energy. Agent Haegeum instructs Grapes to keep the sword, noting that the neutralization is temporary and the school's corruption remains. The group moves through the school, witnessing the worsening encroachment of flesh on walls and floors; they pass the remains of agents, including Agent Go Myeong, who appear to be dead. In Class 1-4, they find Agent Bronze feverishly engraving a glass lantern with a utility knife. They encounter Lee Gyeol, a student who has regained his memories. Lee Gyeol recounts the origin of the disaster: a series of terror alerts in 'Sekwang Metropolitan City' on May 4th, which was followed by a sudden communications blackout and strange, cryptic messages appearing on devices. He notes that a teacher had mentioned sending a rescue request to 'agents' before the chaos. Agent Bronze successfully completes the talisman-engraved glass lantern, which emits blue flames. Grapes realizes the original hiding place (the backyard) has been 'discovered' by the entity, implying a hide-and-seek mechanic. To find a new hiding spot for the talisman, Grapes decides they must head toward the passage connecting to the Hanbit Library.
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15:06
81
Chapter 289
The group of students and agents navigates through a school hallway covered in pulsing flesh and victims. Agent Bronze leads them toward the first floor, where they reach a wooden sliding door leading to a school library. Kim Soleum identifies a specific bookshelf that serves as a secret passage to the Hanbit Library, but the mechanism fails to activate because the required book is missing due to the 'In the Dark Shadow' phenomenon. Kim Soleum suggests hiding the talisman behind the bookshelf in a hidden space. Section Chief Lee Jaheon moves the shelf, revealing a metallic rectangular space. Although the agents cannot see the fire hydrant hidden within, Kim Soleum can. Kim Soleum cleans the interior of the fire hydrant and places the consecrated glass lantern inside. As the ritual begins, an ominous, tearing voice echoes, and a blue light from a torn talisman seeps in from above. Park Hongrim encourages Kim Soleum to complete the ritual. Braun, the host, provides a cryptic hint, suggesting Kim Soleum has missed something. Kim Soleum realizes that since he is wearing a Sekwang Technical High School uniform, completing the ritual will cause him to be hidden within the library as part of the school's collection. However, Lee Gyeol intervenes, identifying Kim Soleum as an outsider wearing a borrowed uniform. Lee Gyeol grabs the lantern, and the Sekwang uniform vanishes, revealing Kim Soleum's true school uniform. The fire hydrant and the ritual space become invisible to Kim Soleum. A massive burst of blue flames consumes the nightmare. When the light fades, the group finds themselves in a peaceful, sunlit hallway in May. The victims and students are all sleeping soundly on mattresses and blankets in a tranquil nap time. The agents are seen napping near the auditorium. On the auditorium door, a broken glass lantern and a torn talisman remain as remnants of the battle. The 'In the Dark Shadow' ghost story concludes with a 'Happy Ending 01' score, credited to Agent Honghwa and the Cheongryong Team.
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12:02
Chapter 289
The group of students and agents navigates through a school hallway covered in pulsing flesh and victims. Agent Bronze leads them toward the first floor, where they reach a wooden sliding door leading to a school library. Kim Soleum identifies a specific bookshelf that serves as a secret passage to the Hanbit Library, but the mechanism fails to activate because the required book is missing due to the 'In the Dark Shadow' phenomenon. Kim Soleum suggests hiding the talisman behind the bookshelf in a hidden space. Section Chief Lee Jaheon moves the shelf, revealing a metallic rectangular space. Although the agents cannot see the fire hydrant hidden within, Kim Soleum can. Kim Soleum cleans the interior of the fire hydrant and places the consecrated glass lantern inside. As the ritual begins, an ominous, tearing voice echoes, and a blue light from a torn talisman seeps in from above. Park Hongrim encourages Kim Soleum to complete the ritual. Braun, the host, provides a cryptic hint, suggesting Kim Soleum has missed something. Kim Soleum realizes that since he is wearing a Sekwang Technical High School uniform, completing the ritual will cause him to be hidden within the library as part of the school's collection. However, Lee Gyeol intervenes, identifying Kim Soleum as an outsider wearing a borrowed uniform. Lee Gyeol grabs the lantern, and the Sekwang uniform vanishes, revealing Kim Soleum's true school uniform. The fire hydrant and the ritual space become invisible to Kim Soleum. A massive burst of blue flames consumes the nightmare. When the light fades, the group finds themselves in a peaceful, sunlit hallway in May. The victims and students are all sleeping soundly on mattresses and blankets in a tranquil nap time. The agents are seen napping near the auditorium. On the auditorium door, a broken glass lantern and a torn talisman remain as remnants of the battle. The 'In the Dark Shadow' ghost story concludes with a 'Happy Ending 01' score, credited to Agent Honghwa and the Cheongryong Team.
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12:02
82
Chapter 290
Kim Soleum (Grapes), in the form of a Security Team uniform silhouette (130666), awakens in a hospital bed. Ho Yuwon, the Fox Counseling Room director, is waiting for news regarding the Sekwang Technical High School incident. Kim Soleum reveals that the mission was a success: the students were protected from the Supernatural Disaster, effectively concluding the 'In the Dark Shadow' ghost story. This revelation triggers a tense debate between Ho Yuwon and the Bureau agents. Ho Yuwon suggests that the Bureau's decision to implement 'Cognitive Impairment'—essentially erasing the memory of the Sekwang Metropolitan City lockdown and its victims—was a cold, rational choice to save the many at the expense of the few. Agent Bronze argues that the Bureau's methods are not perfect and that the agents' sacrifices should not be ignored, while Agent Choi rebukes Ho Yuwon for his perceived manipulation of individuals. Amidst this, it is revealed that Kim Soleum had entrusted the 'Dream Collector' to Agent Choi; the item now contains an incredibly high concentration of Dream Essence, comparable to an S-rank Abyss grade, suggesting a link between the high school and the larger catastrophe. Later, Kim Soleum enters a dream-state and speaks with the spirit of Team Leader Park Hongrim (Honghwa). Hongrim, who lacks full memory of the Sekwang incident due to cognitive erasure, expresses relief that the students were saved. Kim Soleum realizes the horrific truth: the 'Bad Ending' of the original story would have seen everyone devoured, but the agents' intervention changed the outcome. Upon waking, Kim Soleum finds Agent Haegeum and the other agents present, realizing a new exploration phase is beginning to address the mystery of the 'Metropolitan City' and the sleeping students.
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16:00
Chapter 290
Kim Soleum (Grapes), in the form of a Security Team uniform silhouette (130666), awakens in a hospital bed. Ho Yuwon, the Fox Counseling Room director, is waiting for news regarding the Sekwang Technical High School incident. Kim Soleum reveals that the mission was a success: the students were protected from the Supernatural Disaster, effectively concluding the 'In the Dark Shadow' ghost story. This revelation triggers a tense debate between Ho Yuwon and the Bureau agents. Ho Yuwon suggests that the Bureau's decision to implement 'Cognitive Impairment'—essentially erasing the memory of the Sekwang Metropolitan City lockdown and its victims—was a cold, rational choice to save the many at the expense of the few. Agent Bronze argues that the Bureau's methods are not perfect and that the agents' sacrifices should not be ignored, while Agent Choi rebukes Ho Yuwon for his perceived manipulation of individuals. Amidst this, it is revealed that Kim Soleum had entrusted the 'Dream Collector' to Agent Choi; the item now contains an incredibly high concentration of Dream Essence, comparable to an S-rank Abyss grade, suggesting a link between the high school and the larger catastrophe. Later, Kim Soleum enters a dream-state and speaks with the spirit of Team Leader Park Hongrim (Honghwa). Hongrim, who lacks full memory of the Sekwang incident due to cognitive erasure, expresses relief that the students were saved. Kim Soleum realizes the horrific truth: the 'Bad Ending' of the original story would have seen everyone devoured, but the agents' intervention changed the outcome. Upon waking, Kim Soleum finds Agent Haegeum and the other agents present, realizing a new exploration phase is beginning to address the mystery of the 'Metropolitan City' and the sleeping students.
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16:00
83
Chapter 291
In Sekwang Metropolitan City, Kim Soleum (the protagonist) explains the nature of 'Director Ho's Project' and the reality of cognitive erasure to Agent Haegeum. Haegeum decides not to report the existence of the Metropolitan City to her superiors to prevent further cognitive erasure risks, but offers herself as a contact for when Kim Soleum explores the city. She treats Agent Choi and Agent Bronze with maternal sternness before addressing Kim Soleum's humanity, concluding that having reason, communication, and compassion makes him human. She notes that Kim Soleum's missing hand is being sustained by Dokkaebi flame.
After Haegeum leaves, Section Chief Lee Jaheon arrives at the Fox Counseling Room to deliver a 'reward'—an item from the 'Cosmic shopping mall' intended to help Kim Soleum regain a human body. The item is a 'Sunshine Edit Shop's Succession Egg Mood Lamp.' The manual reveals it is a mystical product that grows a life form inside an egg-shaped lamp using blood and hair from a specific life form.
Kim Soleum visits Kwak Jekang at the Daydream research office to obtain samples of his former human self's blood and hair from Team D's records. Despite Kwak Jekang's scientific obsession, he provides the samples. Kim Soleum, accompanied by Lee Jaheon and an observing Kwak Jekang, performs the ritual in darkness. He uses the blood and hair of 'Kim Soleum' to feed the lamp. The lamp's light reveals a rapidly growing silhouette of nerves and organs. Upon completion, the lamp spits out a life-sized human body that matches Kim Soleum's former height. However, while the body is Kim Soleum's, it possesses the head of a reptilian alien rather than a human face, leaving the transformation seemingly flawed.
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14:58
Chapter 291
In Sekwang Metropolitan City, Kim Soleum (the protagonist) explains the nature of 'Director Ho's Project' and the reality of cognitive erasure to Agent Haegeum. Haegeum decides not to report the existence of the Metropolitan City to her superiors to prevent further cognitive erasure risks, but offers herself as a contact for when Kim Soleum explores the city. She treats Agent Choi and Agent Bronze with maternal sternness before addressing Kim Soleum's humanity, concluding that having reason, communication, and compassion makes him human. She notes that Kim Soleum's missing hand is being sustained by Dokkaebi flame.
After Haegeum leaves, Section Chief Lee Jaheon arrives at the Fox Counseling Room to deliver a 'reward'—an item from the 'Cosmic shopping mall' intended to help Kim Soleum regain a human body. The item is a 'Sunshine Edit Shop's Succession Egg Mood Lamp.' The manual reveals it is a mystical product that grows a life form inside an egg-shaped lamp using blood and hair from a specific life form.
Kim Soleum visits Kwak Jekang at the Daydream research office to obtain samples of his former human self's blood and hair from Team D's records. Despite Kwak Jekang's scientific obsession, he provides the samples. Kim Soleum, accompanied by Lee Jaheon and an observing Kwak Jekang, performs the ritual in darkness. He uses the blood and hair of 'Kim Soleum' to feed the lamp. The lamp's light reveals a rapidly growing silhouette of nerves and organs. Upon completion, the lamp spits out a life-sized human body that matches Kim Soleum's former height. However, while the body is Kim Soleum's, it possesses the head of a reptilian alien rather than a human face, leaving the transformation seemingly flawed.
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14:58
84
Chapter 292
Kim Soleum examines the body produced by the Egg Mood Lamp, discovering it is a human body with a lizard head, similar to Section Chief Lee Jaheon. Through the lamp's manual, Soleum learns that a 'special effect' likely mixed the gift-giver's biological traits into the product. Kwak Jekang attempts to interview Soleum but is eventually dismissed. Soleum realizes the lizard-headed body can pass as human to others, just like Lee Jaheon. Following the manual's instructions, Soleum attaches the mood lamp to his own ribs near the spinal cord and activates it, performing a body swap. Solem's consciousness enters the new body, while his original 130666 body becomes a stiff, breathing vessel with the lamp attached to its ribs. Speaking with Lee Jaheon, Solem learns the body is a product of an alien 'colony' ecology designed to mimic human biology as a reward. Solem discovers the body possesses incredible physical strength, comparable to Lee Jaheon's, and can read subtle expressions. Despite the bizarre nature of his new existence, Solem decides to use the body to re-enter society. At Daydream headquarters, Baek Saheon is being monitored by Lee Seonghae. Kim Solem arrives wearing a black feline mask obtained from Director Ho to maintain a cover. Lee Seonghae, excited by Solem's arrival, invites him to join her and Baek Saheon on a Darkness exploration mission. Solem accepts, hoping to test if his new body can produce Dream Essence. The group arrives at a pitch-black mountain tunnel known for ghost sightings and missing persons, which has been blocked off to civilians. The chapter ends as they prepare to enter the tunnel to tell scary stories.
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16:20
Chapter 292
Kim Soleum examines the body produced by the Egg Mood Lamp, discovering it is a human body with a lizard head, similar to Section Chief Lee Jaheon. Through the lamp's manual, Soleum learns that a 'special effect' likely mixed the gift-giver's biological traits into the product. Kwak Jekang attempts to interview Soleum but is eventually dismissed. Soleum realizes the lizard-headed body can pass as human to others, just like Lee Jaheon. Following the manual's instructions, Soleum attaches the mood lamp to his own ribs near the spinal cord and activates it, performing a body swap. Solem's consciousness enters the new body, while his original 130666 body becomes a stiff, breathing vessel with the lamp attached to its ribs. Speaking with Lee Jaheon, Solem learns the body is a product of an alien 'colony' ecology designed to mimic human biology as a reward. Solem discovers the body possesses incredible physical strength, comparable to Lee Jaheon's, and can read subtle expressions. Despite the bizarre nature of his new existence, Solem decides to use the body to re-enter society. At Daydream headquarters, Baek Saheon is being monitored by Lee Seonghae. Kim Solem arrives wearing a black feline mask obtained from Director Ho to maintain a cover. Lee Seonghae, excited by Solem's arrival, invites him to join her and Baek Saheon on a Darkness exploration mission. Solem accepts, hoping to test if his new body can produce Dream Essence. The group arrives at a pitch-black mountain tunnel known for ghost sightings and missing persons, which has been blocked off to civilians. The chapter ends as they prepare to enter the tunnel to tell scary stories.
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16:20
85
Chapter 293
Kim Soleum, Baek Saheon, and Lee Seonghae enter the abandoned Gangnyeong Town Tunnel at night to complete a 'scary story' ritual. To maintain his cover as a brave employee, Kim Soleum suppresses his intense fear. Lee Seonghae leads with a flashlight, placing Kim Soleum at the far right, the most vulnerable position. Lee Seonghae begins the ritual by telling a local urban legend about a hit-and-run accident involving a compact car where the occupants vanished, leaving only bloodstains and handprints. She punctuates the story by tapping Kim Soleum's shoulder, momentarily terrifying him. Baek Saheon follows with a supernatural story about a sentient cassette player, which Kim Soleum finds barely frightening. As Kim Soleum prepares his own story, the group encounters Jin Nasol and an unnamed insect-masked employee from Elite Squad-A. Jin Nasol reveals her squad is facing difficulties and joins their group. After Jin Nasol shares a gruesome shamanistic ghost story involving a cursed wardrobe, Kim Soleum is called upon to tell the next story. However, Jin Nasol points out that Kim Soleum is actually at the far right end of the group and that the insect-masked employee who was previously next to him has already fled in terror. Kim Soleum, realizing he is actually walking next to an empty space, feels a presence to his right and hears the sound of a broken-down car. A voice whispers in his ear, asking if someone is trapped inside.
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14:38
Chapter 293
Kim Soleum, Baek Saheon, and Lee Seonghae enter the abandoned Gangnyeong Town Tunnel at night to complete a 'scary story' ritual. To maintain his cover as a brave employee, Kim Soleum suppresses his intense fear. Lee Seonghae leads with a flashlight, placing Kim Soleum at the far right, the most vulnerable position. Lee Seonghae begins the ritual by telling a local urban legend about a hit-and-run accident involving a compact car where the occupants vanished, leaving only bloodstains and handprints. She punctuates the story by tapping Kim Soleum's shoulder, momentarily terrifying him. Baek Saheon follows with a supernatural story about a sentient cassette player, which Kim Soleum finds barely frightening. As Kim Soleum prepares his own story, the group encounters Jin Nasol and an unnamed insect-masked employee from Elite Squad-A. Jin Nasol reveals her squad is facing difficulties and joins their group. After Jin Nasol shares a gruesome shamanistic ghost story involving a cursed wardrobe, Kim Soleum is called upon to tell the next story. However, Jin Nasol points out that Kim Soleum is actually at the far right end of the group and that the insect-masked employee who was previously next to him has already fled in terror. Kim Soleum, realizing he is actually walking next to an empty space, feels a presence to his right and hears the sound of a broken-down car. A voice whispers in his ear, asking if someone is trapped inside.
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14:38
86
Chapter 294
While walking through a dark tunnel, Kim Soleum experiences a terrifying paranormal encounter where a presence mimics Assistant Manager Jin Nasol's missing companion, tapping his shoulder and whispering. To maintain composure, Kim Soleum pretends the encounter is merely a "scary story" being told to Baek Saheon. During the conversation, Kim Soleum questions Assistant Manager Lee Seonghae (Dolphin) about a previous accident in the tunnel involving a white Matex compact car and a missing family. Lee Seonghae reveals the car was a victim of a hit-and-run and claims there is still someone waving from the driver's seat. The tension escalates as the tunnel lights activate, revealing the crashed car is actually following the group, accompanied by a bizarre, dancing, human-like entity. The group continues to walk, treating the horror with unnerving casualness by telling more stories. As the car's headlights and engine roar behind them, Lee Seonghae suggests the accident might have been caused by something non-vehicular—something occult—encountering the car. Suddenly, the entity lunges at Kim Soleum's face. Kim Soleum reflexively punches the entity, which results in him shattering a hidden, blood-stained, ritualistic stone tablet embedded within the tunnel wall. The destruction of the tablet appears to drive away the spirits, allowing the group to reach the tunnel exit just before dawn. Kim Soleum uses the excuse of an "anomalous attack" to explain the damage to Assistant Manager Jin Nasol. After exiting, Kim Soleum realizes his current body's immense physical strength, comparing himself to the powerful Section Chief Lee Jaheon. The chapter ends when Jin Nasol receives a summons from Director Ho, ordering Kim Soleum, Baek Saheon, and Lee Seonghae to a project team dinner.
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14:10
Chapter 294
While walking through a dark tunnel, Kim Soleum experiences a terrifying paranormal encounter where a presence mimics Assistant Manager Jin Nasol's missing companion, tapping his shoulder and whispering. To maintain composure, Kim Soleum pretends the encounter is merely a "scary story" being told to Baek Saheon. During the conversation, Kim Soleum questions Assistant Manager Lee Seonghae (Dolphin) about a previous accident in the tunnel involving a white Matex compact car and a missing family. Lee Seonghae reveals the car was a victim of a hit-and-run and claims there is still someone waving from the driver's seat. The tension escalates as the tunnel lights activate, revealing the crashed car is actually following the group, accompanied by a bizarre, dancing, human-like entity. The group continues to walk, treating the horror with unnerving casualness by telling more stories. As the car's headlights and engine roar behind them, Lee Seonghae suggests the accident might have been caused by something non-vehicular—something occult—encountering the car. Suddenly, the entity lunges at Kim Soleum's face. Kim Soleum reflexively punches the entity, which results in him shattering a hidden, blood-stained, ritualistic stone tablet embedded within the tunnel wall. The destruction of the tablet appears to drive away the spirits, allowing the group to reach the tunnel exit just before dawn. Kim Soleum uses the excuse of an "anomalous attack" to explain the damage to Assistant Manager Jin Nasol. After exiting, Kim Soleum realizes his current body's immense physical strength, comparing himself to the powerful Section Chief Lee Jaheon. The chapter ends when Jin Nasol receives a summons from Director Ho, ordering Kim Soleum, Baek Saheon, and Lee Seonghae to a project team dinner.
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14:10
87
Chapter 295
A company dinner is held at a barbecue restaurant for employees who participated in Director Ho's recent Project. The participants wear masks due to a strange company rule. Lee Jaheon, currently inhabiting a lizard-masked body, attends the dinner and struggles with extreme strength control, accidentally crushing a water cup and nearly breaking the table. Jin Nasol, a member of the Elite Squad, observes the cat-masked man (Lee Jaheon) and senses his immense strength, noting the unusual respect other members show him. The gathering includes various departments, including Team A (represented by Falcon and Lizard masks), Group A Leader Baek Seokju, and several Hahoetal-masked individuals who display a predatory aura toward Jin Nasol. Lee Seonghae (Dolphin mask) expresses annoyance at having to attend instead of dining privately with the cat-masked man. During the meal, Lee Jaheon seeks advice on strength control from Section Chief Lee Jaheon, who suggests imagining objects as 'soft tofu.' After the meal, Director Ho Yuwon provides Lee Jaheon with a file containing a list of the Project participants, suggesting he use them as 'day laborers' for future explorations, provided he erases their memories afterward. Lee Jaheon declines the offer for now, focused on returning to Midnight Night Station to find the train mentioned by Go Youngeun. Upon returning to the station, Lee Jaheon discovers that the passage to Hanbit Library has vanished, replaced by a sign reading 'Closed – Undergoing Corner Renovation –' and a signpost for the 'Station Office' protruding from the darkness.
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15:30
Chapter 295
A company dinner is held at a barbecue restaurant for employees who participated in Director Ho's recent Project. The participants wear masks due to a strange company rule. Lee Jaheon, currently inhabiting a lizard-masked body, attends the dinner and struggles with extreme strength control, accidentally crushing a water cup and nearly breaking the table. Jin Nasol, a member of the Elite Squad, observes the cat-masked man (Lee Jaheon) and senses his immense strength, noting the unusual respect other members show him. The gathering includes various departments, including Team A (represented by Falcon and Lizard masks), Group A Leader Baek Seokju, and several Hahoetal-masked individuals who display a predatory aura toward Jin Nasol. Lee Seonghae (Dolphin mask) expresses annoyance at having to attend instead of dining privately with the cat-masked man. During the meal, Lee Jaheon seeks advice on strength control from Section Chief Lee Jaheon, who suggests imagining objects as 'soft tofu.' After the meal, Director Ho Yuwon provides Lee Jaheon with a file containing a list of the Project participants, suggesting he use them as 'day laborers' for future explorations, provided he erases their memories afterward. Lee Jaheon declines the offer for now, focused on returning to Midnight Night Station to find the train mentioned by Go Youngeun. Upon returning to the station, Lee Jaheon discovers that the passage to Hanbit Library has vanished, replaced by a sign reading 'Closed – Undergoing Corner Renovation –' and a signpost for the 'Station Office' protruding from the darkness.
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15:30
88
Chapter 296
Following the completion of project reports, the Daydream team prepares to re-enter Sekwang Metropolitan City. Kim Soleum decides to proceed with a six-person team consisting of Section Chief Lee Jaheon, Assistant Manager Eun Haje, Assistant Manager Lee Seonghae, Supervisor Baek Saheon, Agent Bronze, and himself. They initially intended to visit Hanbit Library, but find it has been replaced by a dark, abandoned subway station due to "corner renovation."
Exploring the station, the group finds it in a state of ruin, filled with trash and signs of past evacuation. At Exit 1, the shutter is barricaded with junk and blood. At Exit 4, they find a wooden board covered in colorful sticky notes from students, including a message from Agent Gomyeong confirming everyone is safe and a message from Kim Soleum himself.
Inside the station office, the group discovers the corpse of a station employee who appears to have slit his own throat with a mirror shard. Kim Soleum discovers a station employee ID card on the corpse, which, upon cleaning, reveals the name "Heowoon," identifying it as the colleague Jang Heowoon. They also find a 3D blueprint of the station with a red mark shaped like a rabbit doll located on the opposite platform.
Before leaving, Kim Soleum catches Baek Saheon stealing a cat-shaped coin purse from the station's lost and found. Kim Soleum uses a combination of pressure and politeness to ensure Baek Saheon will be honest about future finds. Moving toward the marked location, the group finds a machine room. Kim Soleum uses the retrieved ID card to unlock the door, revealing a hallway with burnt walls and black water. The environment is identical to the Cheerful Research Institute from the Daydream underground Annex, revealing that the Institute was originally located within this subway station.
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15:28
Chapter 296
Following the completion of project reports, the Daydream team prepares to re-enter Sekwang Metropolitan City. Kim Soleum decides to proceed with a six-person team consisting of Section Chief Lee Jaheon, Assistant Manager Eun Haje, Assistant Manager Lee Seonghae, Supervisor Baek Saheon, Agent Bronze, and himself. They initially intended to visit Hanbit Library, but find it has been replaced by a dark, abandoned subway station due to "corner renovation."
Exploring the station, the group finds it in a state of ruin, filled with trash and signs of past evacuation. At Exit 1, the shutter is barricaded with junk and blood. At Exit 4, they find a wooden board covered in colorful sticky notes from students, including a message from Agent Gomyeong confirming everyone is safe and a message from Kim Soleum himself.
Inside the station office, the group discovers the corpse of a station employee who appears to have slit his own throat with a mirror shard. Kim Soleum discovers a station employee ID card on the corpse, which, upon cleaning, reveals the name "Heowoon," identifying it as the colleague Jang Heowoon. They also find a 3D blueprint of the station with a red mark shaped like a rabbit doll located on the opposite platform.
Before leaving, Kim Soleum catches Baek Saheon stealing a cat-shaped coin purse from the station's lost and found. Kim Soleum uses a combination of pressure and politeness to ensure Baek Saheon will be honest about future finds. Moving toward the marked location, the group finds a machine room. Kim Soleum uses the retrieved ID card to unlock the door, revealing a hallway with burnt walls and black water. The environment is identical to the Cheerful Research Institute from the Daydream underground Annex, revealing that the Institute was originally located within this subway station.
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15:28
89
Chapter 297
In the basement of Midnight Station, the group discovers the burnt-out remains of the Cheerful Research Institute. Kim Soleum (Roe Deer) realizes that the institute's layout in the Daydream Inc. basement is organized by different time periods, whereas this Midnight Station location is a physical counterpart to a different station in Sekwang Special City. Kim Soleum and Lee Seonghae explore the charred corridors, discussing the mysterious nature of the Wish Ticket. Kim Soleum theorizes that the company produces Wish Tickets to screen for specific individuals capable of utilizing them, likely to benefit company executives. Upon entering an office with a single desk and computer, Kim Soleum realizes this facility is not just a different time, but a different location entirely. After discovering an engraved plate near a non-functional elevator, Kim Soleum deduces that the institute's floors are linked to different subway stations via elevators. While searching under furniture, Lee Seonghae finds a hidden document under a computer monitor. The document contains notes on 'Invitation research' and 'Children's Paradise Syrup,' linking the research to the summoning of a 'hostile being' and the progression of a contract. Kim Soleum suspects the Sekwang Special City disaster was caused by this research. The group hears an approaching train, G1572, and rushes to the opposite platform. There, they reunite with Go Youngeun and a group of survivors from Sekwang Special City standing inside the train car.
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16:29
Chapter 297
In the basement of Midnight Station, the group discovers the burnt-out remains of the Cheerful Research Institute. Kim Soleum (Roe Deer) realizes that the institute's layout in the Daydream Inc. basement is organized by different time periods, whereas this Midnight Station location is a physical counterpart to a different station in Sekwang Special City. Kim Soleum and Lee Seonghae explore the charred corridors, discussing the mysterious nature of the Wish Ticket. Kim Soleum theorizes that the company produces Wish Tickets to screen for specific individuals capable of utilizing them, likely to benefit company executives. Upon entering an office with a single desk and computer, Kim Soleum realizes this facility is not just a different time, but a different location entirely. After discovering an engraved plate near a non-functional elevator, Kim Soleum deduces that the institute's floors are linked to different subway stations via elevators. While searching under furniture, Lee Seonghae finds a hidden document under a computer monitor. The document contains notes on 'Invitation research' and 'Children's Paradise Syrup,' linking the research to the summoning of a 'hostile being' and the progression of a contract. Kim Soleum suspects the Sekwang Special City disaster was caused by this research. The group hears an approaching train, G1572, and rushes to the opposite platform. There, they reunite with Go Youngeun and a group of survivors from Sekwang Special City standing inside the train car.
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16:29
90
Chapter 298
Kim Soleum and his party attempt to board a subway train in Sekwang Metropolitan City, but they are met with extreme hostility and physical aggression from the current passengers, who use makeshift weapons like taped mop handles to keep outsiders out. To prevent a violent confrontation that would harm Go Youngeun, Kim Soleum negotiates by offering packaged food rations. Once onboard, the party realizes the passengers are desperate survivors living in a cramped, makeshift shelter. Tensions rise when the train's 'Chief'—a malicious man in a cap—arrives and insults Go Youngeun, calling her a fake doctor and a burden. A female Station Attendant, who is Go Youngeun's aunt and a former Sekwang Transit employee, intervenes and restores order. The party moves to Car 7, a neutral trading zone, where Kim Soleum discovers the train was originally a shelter created by the Cheongryong Team (including Agent Chogae). Kim Soleum speaks with the Station Attendant, learning the horrific truth of the city's downfall: people were transformed into clumping, mucus-like flesh blobs after muttering strange phrases about "Paradise." Kim Soleum realizes the disaster was likely a failed biochemical/supernatural experiment by the Cheerful Research Institute involving "Children's Paradise Syrup." As the train completes a loop, Kim Soleum uses his ability to update the subway map, identifying several dangerous stations including Twilight Station (a burning hell). He avoids the high-risk stations to focus on acquiring items. After trading supplies and establishing a tentative alliance with Go Youngeun, the party disembarks at Afternoon Station. They find the station transformed into a gaudy, psychedelic studio for
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29:42
Chapter 298
Kim Soleum and his party attempt to board a subway train in Sekwang Metropolitan City, but they are met with extreme hostility and physical aggression from the current passengers, who use makeshift weapons like taped mop handles to keep outsiders out. To prevent a violent confrontation that would harm Go Youngeun, Kim Soleum negotiates by offering packaged food rations. Once onboard, the party realizes the passengers are desperate survivors living in a cramped, makeshift shelter. Tensions rise when the train's 'Chief'—a malicious man in a cap—arrives and insults Go Youngeun, calling her a fake doctor and a burden. A female Station Attendant, who is Go Youngeun's aunt and a former Sekwang Transit employee, intervenes and restores order. The party moves to Car 7, a neutral trading zone, where Kim Soleum discovers the train was originally a shelter created by the Cheongryong Team (including Agent Chogae). Kim Soleum speaks with the Station Attendant, learning the horrific truth of the city's downfall: people were transformed into clumping, mucus-like flesh blobs after muttering strange phrases about "Paradise." Kim Soleum realizes the disaster was likely a failed biochemical/supernatural experiment by the Cheerful Research Institute involving "Children's Paradise Syrup." As the train completes a loop, Kim Soleum uses his ability to update the subway map, identifying several dangerous stations including Twilight Station (a burning hell). He avoids the high-risk stations to focus on acquiring items. After trading supplies and establishing a tentative alliance with Go Youngeun, the party disembarks at Afternoon Station. They find the station transformed into a gaudy, psychedelic studio for
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29:42
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