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Got Dropped in a Ghost Story, Still Gotta Work
Secretiv_Sorceress · saltgoblin & I_Love_Kim_Soleum
Completed
Horror
4.9
478 chapters
973 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.
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I'm an Infinite Regressor, But I've Got Stories to Tell
Audio chapters (478) · 331–360
331
Chapter 331
Kim Soleum completes a trade at the Faceless Market, handing over a custom Twilight-grade coin (the 'Kind Seed Kit') to a phantom hand. He lies to Agent Choi, claiming the coin was just random currency, though he secretly plans to retrieve it later. Agent Choi, impressed by Kim's internal logic, ruffles his hair and invites him to join Turtle-Snake Team 1, which Kim finds suspicious and overwhelming. After a brief, heated outburst from Kim regarding his fear and his status as a rookie, the tension eases. Kim opens the blood-stained note he purchased, which reads: 'THAT WHICH RESPONDS TO EMPATHY AND ATTENTION'. Agent Choi uses a Bureau-issued dowsing tool (a glass and brass rod) to inspect the note, but it shows no paranormal reaction, leading Choi to conclude it is merely a lure for a ghost story. Kim remains wary but avoids further suspicion for now.
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5:21
Chapter 331
Kim Soleum completes a trade at the Faceless Market, handing over a custom Twilight-grade coin (the 'Kind Seed Kit') to a phantom hand. He lies to Agent Choi, claiming the coin was just random currency, though he secretly plans to retrieve it later. Agent Choi, impressed by Kim's internal logic, ruffles his hair and invites him to join Turtle-Snake Team 1, which Kim finds suspicious and overwhelming. After a brief, heated outburst from Kim regarding his fear and his status as a rookie, the tension eases. Kim opens the blood-stained note he purchased, which reads: 'THAT WHICH RESPONDS TO EMPATHY AND ATTENTION'. Agent Choi uses a Bureau-issued dowsing tool (a glass and brass rod) to inspect the note, but it shows no paranormal reaction, leading Choi to conclude it is merely a lure for a ghost story. Kim remains wary but avoids further suspicion for now.
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5:21
332
Chapter 332
Kim Soleum hands the note back to Agent Choi, pretending he wants the senior agent to check it again to appear more cooperative and less suspicious. Under Choi's supervision, Kim purchases a specific item. While Choi acts as a mentor, helping Kim navigate the dangerous side effects of marketplace items, Kim realizes Choi is subtly guiding his choices. After Choi leaves, Kim analyzes the note's text. He realizes the note is not a ghost story, but a psychological trap using a 'what3words' style coordinate system. By breaking down the phrasing, he deduces a specific location in Seoul's old city center. He finds a manhole cover propped against a wall, which leads to a staircase descending into a semi-basement. This location is the 'Dream Incubation Room,' a prototype laboratory for Daydream Inc.'s Dream Essence Synthesizer.
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4:59
Chapter 332
Kim Soleum hands the note back to Agent Choi, pretending he wants the senior agent to check it again to appear more cooperative and less suspicious. Under Choi's supervision, Kim purchases a specific item. While Choi acts as a mentor, helping Kim navigate the dangerous side effects of marketplace items, Kim realizes Choi is subtly guiding his choices. After Choi leaves, Kim analyzes the note's text. He realizes the note is not a ghost story, but a psychological trap using a 'what3words' style coordinate system. By breaking down the phrasing, he deduces a specific location in Seoul's old city center. He finds a manhole cover propped against a wall, which leads to a staircase descending into a semi-basement. This location is the 'Dream Incubation Room,' a prototype laboratory for Daydream Inc.'s Dream Essence Synthesizer.
Guest access includes first 48 of 478 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
4:59
333
Chapter 333
Kim Soleum explores the Dream Incubation Room, a decrepit, dust-covered laboratory. He discovers an experimental logbook, but the pages are so heavily defaced with blood, filth, and madness-induced scribbles that he cannot read them. He manages to piece together a terrifying fragment: an interrogation record of an unnamed Assistant Manager who discovered the facility and the machine. The record ends abruptly when the company 'cleaned up' the employee. Kim then finds a desiccated, lifeless body beneath an office desk. Based on his analysis, the body belonged to the final researcher of the incubator, who had been kept alive for five years—not through natural means, but by being forcibly sustained just long enough to pass the note at the Faceless Market. This researcher was the owner of the phantom hand Kim had traded with.
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4:09
Chapter 333
Kim Soleum explores the Dream Incubation Room, a decrepit, dust-covered laboratory. He discovers an experimental logbook, but the pages are so heavily defaced with blood, filth, and madness-induced scribbles that he cannot read them. He manages to piece together a terrifying fragment: an interrogation record of an unnamed Assistant Manager who discovered the facility and the machine. The record ends abruptly when the company 'cleaned up' the employee. Kim then finds a desiccated, lifeless body beneath an office desk. Based on his analysis, the body belonged to the final researcher of the incubator, who had been kept alive for five years—not through natural means, but by being forcibly sustained just long enough to pass the note at the Faceless Market. This researcher was the owner of the phantom hand Kim had traded with.
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4:09
334
Chapter 334
Kim Soleum retrieves a custom equipment coin and a card key from a deceased researcher's corpse. The card key bears a cryptic, partially obscured name and the note 'Can’t let them find out.' Kim Soleum proceeds to the 'Dream Incubator,' an old prototype device in the lab. He inserts the card key, activating the machine, which reveals a pulsing scarlet object inside a glass chamber. Kim Soleum then uses an A-grade 'Dream Essence Collector' to pour shimmering golden essence into the machine. The essence fills a quarter of the chamber, and the machine's point-like counter climbs rapidly. Kim Soleum selects the 'observant' emoji button, causing the machine to process the essence and dispense a cylindrical glass bottle from its lower section.
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4:05
Chapter 334
Kim Soleum retrieves a custom equipment coin and a card key from a deceased researcher's corpse. The card key bears a cryptic, partially obscured name and the note 'Can’t let them find out.' Kim Soleum proceeds to the 'Dream Incubator,' an old prototype device in the lab. He inserts the card key, activating the machine, which reveals a pulsing scarlet object inside a glass chamber. Kim Soleum then uses an A-grade 'Dream Essence Collector' to pour shimmering golden essence into the machine. The essence fills a quarter of the chamber, and the machine's point-like counter climbs rapidly. Kim Soleum selects the 'observant' emoji button, causing the machine to process the essence and dispense a cylindrical glass bottle from its lower section.
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4:05
335
Chapter 335
Kim Soleum examines the dispensed item: 'Detective Syrup for Kids,' a bright purple C-grade detection potion that has been discontinued by Daydream Inc. He discovers the Dream Incubator has a weekly cooldown period. Upon inspecting the interface, he notices various emoji buttons for different potions but finds a suspicious, gouged-out space where a 'Wish Ticket' button should have been. He decides to keep his findings secret to maintain his cover as a corporate spy. To protect his location, he consumes a 3,000-point 'Secret Potion,' which ensures the next door he closes can only be opened by someone he personally informs. After returning to his hospital room, Kim Soleum is discharged and reassigned to general operations. Agent Bronze informs him that his new task involves driving a vehicle at 2 a.m. with a ghost in the passenger seat.
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5:17
Chapter 335
Kim Soleum examines the dispensed item: 'Detective Syrup for Kids,' a bright purple C-grade detection potion that has been discontinued by Daydream Inc. He discovers the Dream Incubator has a weekly cooldown period. Upon inspecting the interface, he notices various emoji buttons for different potions but finds a suspicious, gouged-out space where a 'Wish Ticket' button should have been. He decides to keep his findings secret to maintain his cover as a corporate spy. To protect his location, he consumes a 3,000-point 'Secret Potion,' which ensures the next door he closes can only be opened by someone he personally informs. After returning to his hospital room, Kim Soleum is discharged and reassigned to general operations. Agent Bronze informs him that his new task involves driving a vehicle at 2 a.m. with a ghost in the passenger seat.
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5:17
336
Chapter 336
Kim Soleum expresses concern about driving at 2 a.m. with a ghost, but Agent Bronze reassures him that no driver has died from the task, only experiencing minor physical stress. Kim Soleum attempts to use his missing arm as an excuse to avoid the driving duty, but Agent Bronze reveals that the Bureau will provide treatment for his arm before the assignment begins. Kim Soleum is then led by Agent Bronze through a hidden entrance located in a narrow alley between Seoul City Hall and the Seoul Library. They enter the Supernatural Disaster Management Bureau's headquarters, which resembles a standard government office. They take an elevator to Basement Level 7 to reach the Supernatural Equipment Registration Room. There, they meet Oh Jeonghye, an administrative officer, who greets them and leads them into a large equipment warehouse.
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5:08
Chapter 336
Kim Soleum expresses concern about driving at 2 a.m. with a ghost, but Agent Bronze reassures him that no driver has died from the task, only experiencing minor physical stress. Kim Soleum attempts to use his missing arm as an excuse to avoid the driving duty, but Agent Bronze reveals that the Bureau will provide treatment for his arm before the assignment begins. Kim Soleum is then led by Agent Bronze through a hidden entrance located in a narrow alley between Seoul City Hall and the Seoul Library. They enter the Supernatural Disaster Management Bureau's headquarters, which resembles a standard government office. They take an elevator to Basement Level 7 to reach the Supernatural Equipment Registration Room. There, they meet Oh Jeonghye, an administrative officer, who greets them and leads them into a large equipment warehouse.
Guest access includes first 48 of 478 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
5:08
337
Chapter 337
Kim Soleum (Agent Grapes) receives his official equipment: a Dokkaebi Flame Lantern. This glass lantern contains a mischievous wisp and, upon contact with Kim's missing right arm, reassembles it into a functional, intact limb made of spiritual energy. The lantern is a temporary, general-purpose issue that will revert to its original form in three days unless a custom consecration ritual is performed. Kim notes that custom lanterns are reserved for high-ranking aces. During the issuance, an administrative officer mentions that Agent Bronze (Ryu Jaekwan) has gone out of his way to care for Kim, suggesting a growing, albeit perhaps complicated, bond. Kim reflects on the possibility of one day obtaining a personalized flame that might grant him special tricks to navigate ghost stories. The chapter ends with Kim preparing to begin his mission: serving as a ghost's personal taxi driver.
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4:57
Chapter 337
Kim Soleum (Agent Grapes) receives his official equipment: a Dokkaebi Flame Lantern. This glass lantern contains a mischievous wisp and, upon contact with Kim's missing right arm, reassembles it into a functional, intact limb made of spiritual energy. The lantern is a temporary, general-purpose issue that will revert to its original form in three days unless a custom consecration ritual is performed. Kim notes that custom lanterns are reserved for high-ranking aces. During the issuance, an administrative officer mentions that Agent Bronze (Ryu Jaekwan) has gone out of his way to care for Kim, suggesting a growing, albeit perhaps complicated, bond. Kim reflects on the possibility of one day obtaining a personalized flame that might grant him special tricks to navigate ghost stories. The chapter ends with Kim preparing to begin his mission: serving as a ghost's personal taxi driver.
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4:57
338
Chapter 338
Kim Soleum begins his mission as a taxi driver to return a ghost to its original location. It is a rainy night at the Express Bus Terminal Station. A long-haired female ghost in summer clothing boards the taxi, requesting to be taken to Sajiyuk Cemetery. Kim struggles to maintain composure as the ghost exhibits terrifying behavior, including a twisted neck and unsettling comments about the car's license plate. The atmosphere becomes increasingly heavy with the smell of burning. To combat his rising panic, Kim turns on the radio, which plays 'Kim Miyeong’s Deep Night Romance Radio.' The broadcast features a guest appearance by Braun, the host of the 'Late-Night Talk Show.' The radio content is unsettling, featuring impossible details and mentions of future disasters, but it provides a temporary psychological reprieve for Kim as he drives through the dark night.
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5:47
Chapter 338
Kim Soleum begins his mission as a taxi driver to return a ghost to its original location. It is a rainy night at the Express Bus Terminal Station. A long-haired female ghost in summer clothing boards the taxi, requesting to be taken to Sajiyuk Cemetery. Kim struggles to maintain composure as the ghost exhibits terrifying behavior, including a twisted neck and unsettling comments about the car's license plate. The atmosphere becomes increasingly heavy with the smell of burning. To combat his rising panic, Kim turns on the radio, which plays 'Kim Miyeong’s Deep Night Romance Radio.' The broadcast features a guest appearance by Braun, the host of the 'Late-Night Talk Show.' The radio content is unsettling, featuring impossible details and mentions of future disasters, but it provides a temporary psychological reprieve for Kim as he drives through the dark night.
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5:47
339
Chapter 339
The radio broadcast becomes increasingly surreal and grotesque, with the DJ and Braun discussing topics like dissection and impossible details. The ghost passenger begins to mimic the laughter of the radio hosts in a mocking way. As Kim listens, the ghost starts staring at him and asks if he finds the show fun. The broadcast specifically mentions a 'friend' using glass in place of an arm, which Kim realizes is a direct, unsettling reference to his own new Dokkaebi Flame arm. The ghost reveals she has no legs, only ragged stumps, and blood begins to pour from beneath her seat, flooding the floor of the taxi. Kim attempts to turn off the radio, but it turns back on by itself. The radio host, Braun, seemingly addresses Kim directly, telling him he may turn it off now. Suddenly, a hand appears against the windshield like a hitchhiker. Kim slams on the brakes to avoid a collision, and the ghost turns her attention toward the mysterious figure outside.
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5:39
Chapter 339
The radio broadcast becomes increasingly surreal and grotesque, with the DJ and Braun discussing topics like dissection and impossible details. The ghost passenger begins to mimic the laughter of the radio hosts in a mocking way. As Kim listens, the ghost starts staring at him and asks if he finds the show fun. The broadcast specifically mentions a 'friend' using glass in place of an arm, which Kim realizes is a direct, unsettling reference to his own new Dokkaebi Flame arm. The ghost reveals she has no legs, only ragged stumps, and blood begins to pour from beneath her seat, flooding the floor of the taxi. Kim attempts to turn off the radio, but it turns back on by itself. The radio host, Braun, seemingly addresses Kim directly, telling him he may turn it off now. Suddenly, a hand appears against the windshield like a hitchhiker. Kim slams on the brakes to avoid a collision, and the ghost turns her attention toward the mysterious figure outside.
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5:39
340
Chapter 340
Kim Soleum, driving a supernatural taxi, encounters a passenger attempting to board mid-ride. A sergeant from Daydream Inc.'s Security Team, appearing exhausted and apathetic, boards the backseat, requesting a ride to Seoul Station. Kim Soleum realizes the sergeant likely recognizes him as the deceased Supervisor Kim Soleum, but maintains his cover as a taxi driver. During the drive, the passenger-seat ghost becomes increasingly agitated, demanding speed. As the vehicle approaches a speed-check zone, the ghost's behavior turns violent; bloody handprints appear on the windows from the inside, and a grotesque, monstrous maw emerges from the seat, attempting to consume the driver. However, as the taxi reaches its destination—Sajiyuk Cemetery—the monster vanishes instantly, leaving the car empty and silent. The ghost in the passenger seat remains in a dazed state. After the ghost disappears, Kim Soleum realizes the mission is complete. He encounters Agent Bronze at the cliffside, explaining the passenger's presence as a civilian involvement to avoid suspicion. As Kim Soleum prepares to drop off the sergeant, he realizes the sergeant has recognized him, noting, 'So you were alive.'
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6:27
Chapter 340
Kim Soleum, driving a supernatural taxi, encounters a passenger attempting to board mid-ride. A sergeant from Daydream Inc.'s Security Team, appearing exhausted and apathetic, boards the backseat, requesting a ride to Seoul Station. Kim Soleum realizes the sergeant likely recognizes him as the deceased Supervisor Kim Soleum, but maintains his cover as a taxi driver. During the drive, the passenger-seat ghost becomes increasingly agitated, demanding speed. As the vehicle approaches a speed-check zone, the ghost's behavior turns violent; bloody handprints appear on the windows from the inside, and a grotesque, monstrous maw emerges from the seat, attempting to consume the driver. However, as the taxi reaches its destination—Sajiyuk Cemetery—the monster vanishes instantly, leaving the car empty and silent. The ghost in the passenger seat remains in a dazed state. After the ghost disappears, Kim Soleum realizes the mission is complete. He encounters Agent Bronze at the cliffside, explaining the passenger's presence as a civilian involvement to avoid suspicion. As Kim Soleum prepares to drop off the sergeant, he realizes the sergeant has recognized him, noting, 'So you were alive.'
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6:27
341
Chapter 341
The sergeant in the backseat reveals he knows Kim Soleum is alive, having assumed his death. Kim Soleum reflects on the sergeant's history as a former B-squad leader and his quiet concern for Kim. To test the sergeant's trustworthiness and investigate a lead, Kim Soleum directs the taxi to a hidden lab containing a Daydream Inc. prototype device, identified by the keywords 'Empathy, Attention, Toy.' Upon arrival, the sergeant expresses relief that the taxi wasn't contaminated by Darkness. Kim Soleum explains he is acting as a corporate spy. The sergeant, despite his sluggish demeanor, inspects the lab with surprising precision. Kim Soleum leads the sergeant into the 'Dream Incubation Room,' a facility disguised as a manhole cover in an alley. The sergeant is visibly struck by the sight of the company's fundamental research lab, confirming the connection to Daydream Inc.
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6:47
Chapter 341
The sergeant in the backseat reveals he knows Kim Soleum is alive, having assumed his death. Kim Soleum reflects on the sergeant's history as a former B-squad leader and his quiet concern for Kim. To test the sergeant's trustworthiness and investigate a lead, Kim Soleum directs the taxi to a hidden lab containing a Daydream Inc. prototype device, identified by the keywords 'Empathy, Attention, Toy.' Upon arrival, the sergeant expresses relief that the taxi wasn't contaminated by Darkness. Kim Soleum explains he is acting as a corporate spy. The sergeant, despite his sluggish demeanor, inspects the lab with surprising precision. Kim Soleum leads the sergeant into the 'Dream Incubation Room,' a facility disguised as a manhole cover in an alley. The sergeant is visibly struck by the sight of the company's fundamental research lab, confirming the connection to Daydream Inc.
Guest access includes first 48 of 478 audio chapters. Sign in for Free access.
6:47
342
Chapter 342
Inside the Dream Incubation Room, the sergeant moves with unexpected precision, inspecting the lab. Kim Soleum questions the sergeant about the nature of the facility. The sergeant reveals that Daydream Inc. sometimes 'discards' Darknesses—ghost stories that have been so thoroughly mapped and explored that they lose their supernatural mystery and become mere 'dangerous realities.' This process allows the company to extract 'Dream Essence' until the story is 'wringed dry.' Kim Soleum realizes this lab is likely a discarded Darkness that the company used to extract pharmaceutical technology. The sergeant identifies a card key belonging to a deceased researcher named 'Yoo Kwe' and asks if Kim Soleum knows of the 'Cheerful Research Institute.' Kim Soleum recognizes the name from previous investigations into toy-themed ghost stories. The sergeant explains that the Cheerful Research Institute is a known entity within the company and that the company's very first registered Darkness also carried that tag. The sergeant notes that while he remembers everything about the company, he has chosen to forget many of the darker memories. Kim Soleum encourages him to seek good memories in the future, to which the sergeant responds with a slight brightening of his expression. The chapter ends with the sergeant warning Kim not to spread this information to avoid a visit from the Security Team.
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5:48
Chapter 342
Inside the Dream Incubation Room, the sergeant moves with unexpected precision, inspecting the lab. Kim Soleum questions the sergeant about the nature of the facility. The sergeant reveals that Daydream Inc. sometimes 'discards' Darknesses—ghost stories that have been so thoroughly mapped and explored that they lose their supernatural mystery and become mere 'dangerous realities.' This process allows the company to extract 'Dream Essence' until the story is 'wringed dry.' Kim Soleum realizes this lab is likely a discarded Darkness that the company used to extract pharmaceutical technology. The sergeant identifies a card key belonging to a deceased researcher named 'Yoo Kwe' and asks if Kim Soleum knows of the 'Cheerful Research Institute.' Kim Soleum recognizes the name from previous investigations into toy-themed ghost stories. The sergeant explains that the Cheerful Research Institute is a known entity within the company and that the company's very first registered Darkness also carried that tag. The sergeant notes that while he remembers everything about the company, he has chosen to forget many of the darker memories. Kim Soleum encourages him to seek good memories in the future, to which the sergeant responds with a slight brightening of his expression. The chapter ends with the sergeant warning Kim not to spread this information to avoid a visit from the Security Team.
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5:48
343
Chapter 343
Kim Soleum (Agent Grapes) meets with Security Sergeant J3 to discuss his current status. Kim explains he is working on Director Ho's project team to acquire a Wish Ticket. J3, appearing lethargic and somewhat miserable, shares that the company's executives are all eccentric. To solidify their trust, Kim shows J3 the Dream Incubator, explaining how it can produce potions and recharge Dream Essence. Kim reveals he possesses an unregistered 'Elite Team Collector,' which J3 views with nostalgia. Kim offers to look into information regarding the 'Cheerful Research Institute' for J3, establishing an internal collaborator within the company. After the meeting, Kim provides J3 with a prepaid SIM and a reset phone to ensure they can communicate. Kim then returns the taxi from his previous shift, receiving a favorable evaluation from Agent Bronze. Following a period of rest, Kim returns to the Disaster Management Bureau headquarters, where he is informed that his next assignment is duty with the Site Cleanup Unit.
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5:31
Chapter 343
Kim Soleum (Agent Grapes) meets with Security Sergeant J3 to discuss his current status. Kim explains he is working on Director Ho's project team to acquire a Wish Ticket. J3, appearing lethargic and somewhat miserable, shares that the company's executives are all eccentric. To solidify their trust, Kim shows J3 the Dream Incubator, explaining how it can produce potions and recharge Dream Essence. Kim reveals he possesses an unregistered 'Elite Team Collector,' which J3 views with nostalgia. Kim offers to look into information regarding the 'Cheerful Research Institute' for J3, establishing an internal collaborator within the company. After the meeting, Kim provides J3 with a prepaid SIM and a reset phone to ensure they can communicate. Kim then returns the taxi from his previous shift, receiving a favorable evaluation from Agent Bronze. Following a period of rest, Kim returns to the Disaster Management Bureau headquarters, where he is informed that his next assignment is duty with the Site Cleanup Unit.
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5:31
344
Chapter 344
Kim Soleum (Agent Hwagak) begins his first day with the Site Cleanup Unit. He is introduced to his teammate, Jang Heowoon (Agent Hwagak), by a middle-aged woman. The Vermilion Bird Team 2 leader briefs them on their task: cleaning up a supernatural disaster site in Dobong-gu involving a 'public phone booth that tells scary stories.' The site, left after a civilian rescue, is filled with blood and gore. Kim and Jang Heowoon, both wearing protective hazmat suits, enter the booth to begin cleaning. Despite the revulsion caused by the blood and organs, they proceed with the task. As they vacuum the blood, the phone booth begins to act up, playing a pre-recorded message and pressing its own buttons. To resolve the contradiction, Kim shouts a statement that invalidates the booth's existence (noting there are no public booths in Dobong-gu) and violently throws the phone against the glass door. The phone shatters and vanishes into black ash, effectively annihilating the site rather than just cleaning it. While Agent Choi praises the 'ultimate cleanup,' the Vermilion Bird Team 2 leader finds the method too dangerous for a rookie. Consequently, Kim is not assigned to the Cleanup Unit but is instead sent back to the Response & Rescue Unit for rotational duty.
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5:15
Chapter 344
Kim Soleum (Agent Hwagak) begins his first day with the Site Cleanup Unit. He is introduced to his teammate, Jang Heowoon (Agent Hwagak), by a middle-aged woman. The Vermilion Bird Team 2 leader briefs them on their task: cleaning up a supernatural disaster site in Dobong-gu involving a 'public phone booth that tells scary stories.' The site, left after a civilian rescue, is filled with blood and gore. Kim and Jang Heowoon, both wearing protective hazmat suits, enter the booth to begin cleaning. Despite the revulsion caused by the blood and organs, they proceed with the task. As they vacuum the blood, the phone booth begins to act up, playing a pre-recorded message and pressing its own buttons. To resolve the contradiction, Kim shouts a statement that invalidates the booth's existence (noting there are no public booths in Dobong-gu) and violently throws the phone against the glass door. The phone shatters and vanishes into black ash, effectively annihilating the site rather than just cleaning it. While Agent Choi praises the 'ultimate cleanup,' the Vermilion Bird Team 2 leader finds the method too dangerous for a rookie. Consequently, Kim is not assigned to the Cleanup Unit but is instead sent back to the Response & Rescue Unit for rotational duty.
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5:15
345
Chapter 345
Kim Soleum and Jang Heowoon enter the blood-filled phone booth to clean it using the 'Misfortune Swallower' vacuum. Kim struggles with the revulsion of handling blood-soaked organs but maintains a mechanical pace. As the blood is cleared, the booth's supernatural mechanism activates; a pre-recorded voice prompts the user to 'press 4' for the next story. The phone begins pressing its own buttons. Kim reacts by shouting a logical contradiction—stating there are no public phone booths in Dobong-gu—and physically attacks the phone, throwing it through the glass door. The phone and the booth vanish into black ash, leaving the site completely erased. Agent Bronze arrives to find the site gone, and Agent Choi laughs, praising Kim's 'annihilation' as the ultimate cleanup. However, the Vermilion Bird Team 2 leader expresses concern that Kim's methods are too destructive and risky. Due to this, Kim is not kept in the Cleanup Unit; instead, he is assigned to a three-week rotation. He is ultimately sent back to Black Tortoise Team 1 (Response & Rescue Unit), much to his chagrin, as Agent Choi prepares him for a 'trio mission.'
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7:59
Chapter 345
Kim Soleum and Jang Heowoon enter the blood-filled phone booth to clean it using the 'Misfortune Swallower' vacuum. Kim struggles with the revulsion of handling blood-soaked organs but maintains a mechanical pace. As the blood is cleared, the booth's supernatural mechanism activates; a pre-recorded voice prompts the user to 'press 4' for the next story. The phone begins pressing its own buttons. Kim reacts by shouting a logical contradiction—stating there are no public phone booths in Dobong-gu—and physically attacks the phone, throwing it through the glass door. The phone and the booth vanish into black ash, leaving the site completely erased. Agent Bronze arrives to find the site gone, and Agent Choi laughs, praising Kim's 'annihilation' as the ultimate cleanup. However, the Vermilion Bird Team 2 leader expresses concern that Kim's methods are too destructive and risky. Due to this, Kim is not kept in the Cleanup Unit; instead, he is assigned to a three-week rotation. He is ultimately sent back to Black Tortoise Team 1 (Response & Rescue Unit), much to his chagrin, as Agent Choi prepares him for a 'trio mission.'
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7:59
346
Chapter 346
Kim Soleum learns about the routine rescue missions conducted by the Supernatural Disaster Management Bureau, specifically regarding 'ghost stories' where victims cannot call for help. Agent Choi explains that certain missions are assigned to teams on a regular patrol basis. Kim is informed that he will be joining a three-person mission as an 'honorary member' or 'tag-along extra' alongside Agent Choi and Agent Bronze. Agent Choi leads Kim to the Black Tortoise Team 1 standby zone on basement level 2. Unlike the sleek offices of Daydream Inc., this space is cozy and resembles a college club room, filled with board games and books. Agent Choi attempts to recruit Kim again, but Kim declines. Agent Choi then examines a mysterious note Kim provided from the manhole market, noting it doesn't match any Bureau database entries, though he promises to check his own external sources. As the team prepares, Agent Choi introduces the 'Elder,' the team leader, who is represented by a mystical, aurora-like glass window in the standby zone. The team performs a ritual, bowing to the window and offering buckwheat jelly and chocolate to seek guidance. Following the ritual, Kim undergoes a sudden transformation, shrinking into the body of an eight-year-old child.
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5:59
Chapter 346
Kim Soleum learns about the routine rescue missions conducted by the Supernatural Disaster Management Bureau, specifically regarding 'ghost stories' where victims cannot call for help. Agent Choi explains that certain missions are assigned to teams on a regular patrol basis. Kim is informed that he will be joining a three-person mission as an 'honorary member' or 'tag-along extra' alongside Agent Choi and Agent Bronze. Agent Choi leads Kim to the Black Tortoise Team 1 standby zone on basement level 2. Unlike the sleek offices of Daydream Inc., this space is cozy and resembles a college club room, filled with board games and books. Agent Choi attempts to recruit Kim again, but Kim declines. Agent Choi then examines a mysterious note Kim provided from the manhole market, noting it doesn't match any Bureau database entries, though he promises to check his own external sources. As the team prepares, Agent Choi introduces the 'Elder,' the team leader, who is represented by a mystical, aurora-like glass window in the standby zone. The team performs a ritual, bowing to the window and offering buckwheat jelly and chocolate to seek guidance. Following the ritual, Kim undergoes a sudden transformation, shrinking into the body of an eight-year-old child.
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5:59
347
Chapter 347
Following the ritual, Kim realizes he has been transformed into an eight-year-old child. Agent Choi and Agent Bronze have also been transformed into children, though they retain their adult temperaments and expressions. Agent Choi explains that this is a 'dokkaebi trick'—an illusion used by the Bureau—and that the mission requires being in this form because the supernatural disaster can only be entered by 'children of the New Nation.' He warns Kim that while in this form, emotions are harder to control and physical strength is lower, but the presence of a teammate helps ground one's adult self. Agent Bronze arrives and joins them. The trio travels via a Bureau van to a somber, sunless beach. They arrive at a massive seafood restaurant featuring a sign with an amberjack. They identify the target location as the 'Ocean Palace,' a children's playroom within the restaurant that meets specific criteria: a floor area over 49㎡, a red cylindrical slide, and underwater kingdom murals. To enter the ghost story, the team must climb the red slide from the bottom while maintaining a strong desire to enter the depicted underwater kingdom and reciting the incantation: 'Twinkle twinkle, Ocean Palace, I’ve moved into the Ocean Palace.' As Kim climbs, the incline becomes precariously steep, indicating the ritual is succeeding. After a period of intense climbing, Kim falls forward through the slide and opens his eyes to a fantastical sight.
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5:34
Chapter 347
Following the ritual, Kim realizes he has been transformed into an eight-year-old child. Agent Choi and Agent Bronze have also been transformed into children, though they retain their adult temperaments and expressions. Agent Choi explains that this is a 'dokkaebi trick'—an illusion used by the Bureau—and that the mission requires being in this form because the supernatural disaster can only be entered by 'children of the New Nation.' He warns Kim that while in this form, emotions are harder to control and physical strength is lower, but the presence of a teammate helps ground one's adult self. Agent Bronze arrives and joins them. The trio travels via a Bureau van to a somber, sunless beach. They arrive at a massive seafood restaurant featuring a sign with an amberjack. They identify the target location as the 'Ocean Palace,' a children's playroom within the restaurant that meets specific criteria: a floor area over 49㎡, a red cylindrical slide, and underwater kingdom murals. To enter the ghost story, the team must climb the red slide from the bottom while maintaining a strong desire to enter the depicted underwater kingdom and reciting the incantation: 'Twinkle twinkle, Ocean Palace, I’ve moved into the Ocean Palace.' As Kim climbs, the incline becomes precariously steep, indicating the ritual is succeeding. After a period of intense climbing, Kim falls forward through the slide and opens his eyes to a fantastical sight.
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5:34
348
Chapter 348
Kim struggles with the sensory overload and strange physical sensations of being a child. Agent Bronze explains that the transformation is a 'dokkaebi trick,' a supernatural phenomenon that deceives reality. Agent Choi clarifies that the trick is an illusion and warns Kim that while his fitness and stamina have surged, his strength is weaker and his emotions are more volatile. He emphasizes that the two-person team structure is designed to help teammates ground each other's adult identities. The team arrives at the seafood restaurant on a chilly beach. They locate the 'Ocean Palace' playroom, noting the required red slide and underwater murals. Kim, Agent Bronze, and Agent Choi begin the entry ritual by climbing the red slide while reciting the incantation: 'Twinkle twinkle, Ocean Palace, I’ve moved into the Ocean Palace.' The incline becomes increasingly steep, forcing Kim to cling to the slide. The climb feels like scaling a cliff. Finally, Kim loses his grip and plunges downward, transitioning from the slide into a fantastical underwater realm.
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7:07
Chapter 348
Kim struggles with the sensory overload and strange physical sensations of being a child. Agent Bronze explains that the transformation is a 'dokkaebi trick,' a supernatural phenomenon that deceives reality. Agent Choi clarifies that the trick is an illusion and warns Kim that while his fitness and stamina have surged, his strength is weaker and his emotions are more volatile. He emphasizes that the two-person team structure is designed to help teammates ground each other's adult identities. The team arrives at the seafood restaurant on a chilly beach. They locate the 'Ocean Palace' playroom, noting the required red slide and underwater murals. Kim, Agent Bronze, and Agent Choi begin the entry ritual by climbing the red slide while reciting the incantation: 'Twinkle twinkle, Ocean Palace, I’ve moved into the Ocean Palace.' The incline becomes increasingly steep, forcing Kim to cling to the slide. The climb feels like scaling a cliff. Finally, Kim loses his grip and plunges downward, transitioning from the slide into a fantastical underwater realm.
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7:07
349
Chapter 349
Kim Soleum (Agent Grapes), Agent Choi, and Agent Bronze arrive in 'Twinkle Twinkle Ocean Palace,' a surreal, golden-lit underwater city that appears to be a manifestation of folk beliefs regarding missing children. The city is inhabited by children aged 5 to 11 who exhibit extreme euphoria, living in a fairy-tale environment with magical features like honey-pouring fountains and a Mermaid Princess statue that grants gifts. Kim Soleum notes that time flows chaotically here; children missing for a short time in reality may have lived here for years. The mission objective is strict: they must rescue only children who have been missing in the real world for less than three years. If a child has been missing for over 1,000 days, they vanish like a bubble upon returning to reality. Despite spending two days meticulously interviewing children and searching bedrooms, the team fails to find a single child meeting the rescue criteria. The chapter ends with Kim Soleum feeling the emotional weight of the mission while struggling with the physical limitations of being in a child's body.
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6:18
Chapter 349
Kim Soleum (Agent Grapes), Agent Choi, and Agent Bronze arrive in 'Twinkle Twinkle Ocean Palace,' a surreal, golden-lit underwater city that appears to be a manifestation of folk beliefs regarding missing children. The city is inhabited by children aged 5 to 11 who exhibit extreme euphoria, living in a fairy-tale environment with magical features like honey-pouring fountains and a Mermaid Princess statue that grants gifts. Kim Soleum notes that time flows chaotically here; children missing for a short time in reality may have lived here for years. The mission objective is strict: they must rescue only children who have been missing in the real world for less than three years. If a child has been missing for over 1,000 days, they vanish like a bubble upon returning to reality. Despite spending two days meticulously interviewing children and searching bedrooms, the team fails to find a single child meeting the rescue criteria. The chapter ends with Kim Soleum feeling the emotional weight of the mission while struggling with the physical limitations of being in a child's body.
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6:18
350
Chapter 350
The mission enters a state of emotional crisis as the three agents, all appearing as eight-year-olds due to the 'dokkaebi trick,' struggle with their feelings. Kim Soleum throws a childish tantrum, demanding they keep looking, which leads to a tearful confrontation. Agent Choi, also in a child's body, pleads for just two more days to avoid contamination. Agent Bronze, attempting to maintain professional discipline despite his own visible distress, argues that following protocol is vital for survival and reminds them that Kim Soleum's mechanical arm requires recharging. After a tense negotiation, Agent Bronze begrudgingly allows one additional day of searching. The team splits up to cover different sectors: Agent Choi near the palace, Agent Bronze near the fountain, and Kim Soleum toward the town entrance. Kim Soleum eventually retires to a communal sleeping room, reflecting on the difficulty of maintaining composure while inhabiting the 'concept' of a child. As he falls asleep, he hears a warm, familiar voice—the Elder—offering encouragement and suggesting that dreams can reveal truths hidden in reality.
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5:48
Chapter 350
The mission enters a state of emotional crisis as the three agents, all appearing as eight-year-olds due to the 'dokkaebi trick,' struggle with their feelings. Kim Soleum throws a childish tantrum, demanding they keep looking, which leads to a tearful confrontation. Agent Choi, also in a child's body, pleads for just two more days to avoid contamination. Agent Bronze, attempting to maintain professional discipline despite his own visible distress, argues that following protocol is vital for survival and reminds them that Kim Soleum's mechanical arm requires recharging. After a tense negotiation, Agent Bronze begrudgingly allows one additional day of searching. The team splits up to cover different sectors: Agent Choi near the palace, Agent Bronze near the fountain, and Kim Soleum toward the town entrance. Kim Soleum eventually retires to a communal sleeping room, reflecting on the difficulty of maintaining composure while inhabiting the 'concept' of a child. As he falls asleep, he hears a warm, familiar voice—the Elder—offering encouragement and suggesting that dreams can reveal truths hidden in reality.
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5:48
351
Chapter 351
Following a dream that suggests the children might be hiding truths or being influenced by the ghost story, Kim Soleum decides to use 'Detective Syrup for Kids'—a specialized item from Daydream Inc. that reveals what the user needs most. Upon consuming the syrup, Kim Soleum expects a clear sign of a rescuable child, but the syrup provides no immediate visual guidance toward a specific person. Suspecting the syrup might be pointing toward something else, he turns to a different item: a sheet of vintage stamps from the faceless market. These stamps allow the user to transform into a non-human street animal, though staying transformed for over two hours risks a grotesque biological mutation. Kim Soleum applies a stamp and transforms into a small animal, dropping his field of view to the ground. Immediately, the beautiful, golden facade of the Ocean Palace collapses. The vibrant colors decay into a horrifying landscape of rusty pipes, broken lamps, filth, and pulsating, ulcer-like masses growing from the architecture. Kim Soleum realizes the entire space is heavily contaminated and fundamentally 'wrong.'
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5:49
Chapter 351
Following a dream that suggests the children might be hiding truths or being influenced by the ghost story, Kim Soleum decides to use 'Detective Syrup for Kids'—a specialized item from Daydream Inc. that reveals what the user needs most. Upon consuming the syrup, Kim Soleum expects a clear sign of a rescuable child, but the syrup provides no immediate visual guidance toward a specific person. Suspecting the syrup might be pointing toward something else, he turns to a different item: a sheet of vintage stamps from the faceless market. These stamps allow the user to transform into a non-human street animal, though staying transformed for over two hours risks a grotesque biological mutation. Kim Soleum applies a stamp and transforms into a small animal, dropping his field of view to the ground. Immediately, the beautiful, golden facade of the Ocean Palace collapses. The vibrant colors decay into a horrifying landscape of rusty pipes, broken lamps, filth, and pulsating, ulcer-like masses growing from the architecture. Kim Soleum realizes the entire space is heavily contaminated and fundamentally 'wrong.'
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5:49
352
Chapter 352
Kim Soleum, currently in a feline body, realizes he has entered the 'Mermaid Grave' (Qterw-C-1642), a C-grade ghost story previously known as 'Twinkle Twinkle Ocean Palace.' The once-beautiful seaside city is now a ruined, submerged nightmare of biological horror. The 'mer-children'—grotesque, infected lifeforms—are actually former humans whose blood and mucus are extracted by ulcerous growths to feed a central, pulsing mass resembling a Mermaid Princess. Kim observes that the 'honey' gifted to children was actually the extracted blood of victims. While navigating the ruins, Kim encounters a Field Investigation Team consisting of Baek Saheon (Goat), Kang Yihak (Pony), and Jin Nasol (Butterfly). Despite the horror, the team members appear focused on their own objectives and potential loot rather than the tragedy of the victims. Kim decides to observe them from the shadows, hoping to leverage their specialized equipment to resolve the situation.
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5:37
Chapter 352
Kim Soleum, currently in a feline body, realizes he has entered the 'Mermaid Grave' (Qterw-C-1642), a C-grade ghost story previously known as 'Twinkle Twinkle Ocean Palace.' The once-beautiful seaside city is now a ruined, submerged nightmare of biological horror. The 'mer-children'—grotesque, infected lifeforms—are actually former humans whose blood and mucus are extracted by ulcerous growths to feed a central, pulsing mass resembling a Mermaid Princess. Kim observes that the 'honey' gifted to children was actually the extracted blood of victims. While navigating the ruins, Kim encounters a Field Investigation Team consisting of Baek Saheon (Goat), Kang Yihak (Pony), and Jin Nasol (Butterfly). Despite the horror, the team members appear focused on their own objectives and potential loot rather than the tragedy of the victims. Kim decides to observe them from the shadows, hoping to leverage their specialized equipment to resolve the situation.
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5:37
353
Chapter 353
Kim Soleum observes the Daydream Inc. employees, noting their ruthless willingness to exploit situations for welfare points. From his vantage point as a stray cat, Kim witnesses the 'mer-children'—humanoid entities with swollen, ulcerous faces that emit sounds like child's laughter. He watches a horrific scene where an infected person is caught by the mer-children; the creatures' tentacles lunge at the victim, splitting their belly to extract blood and mucus. The infected parade toward the central mermaid statue. Following this, the team encounters a 'general infected entity'—a large, faceless, human-like form connected to the central cluster by vein-like cords. The employees successfully lure and terminate the entity, collecting a sensory organ from its tail as evidence to secure their escape vessel.
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5:44
Chapter 353
Kim Soleum observes the Daydream Inc. employees, noting their ruthless willingness to exploit situations for welfare points. From his vantage point as a stray cat, Kim witnesses the 'mer-children'—humanoid entities with swollen, ulcerous faces that emit sounds like child's laughter. He watches a horrific scene where an infected person is caught by the mer-children; the creatures' tentacles lunge at the victim, splitting their belly to extract blood and mucus. The infected parade toward the central mermaid statue. Following this, the team encounters a 'general infected entity'—a large, faceless, human-like form connected to the central cluster by vein-like cords. The employees successfully lure and terminate the entity, collecting a sensory organ from its tail as evidence to secure their escape vessel.
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5:44
354
Chapter 354
The Field Investigation Team continues to scour the ruins, not for glory, but for a 'conch-shaped artifact'—a piece of ancient technology that can heal and calm. Baek Saheon, a volunteer motivated by loot, manages his team with calculated selfishness, intending to use them as decoys if necessary. While searching, Baek Saheon notices a shadow flitting near a streetlamp. He initially dismisses it as a common stray cat, but a sudden chill and a glimpse of a terrifying crimson halo—resembling a writhing mass of vermin—cause him to panic. He uses his hidden violet inverse eye to investigate. The terrifying shape vanishes instantly, leaving him confused. As he approaches the corner where the shadow appeared, he finds a phrase carved into the dust with sharp claws.
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5:20
Chapter 354
The Field Investigation Team continues to scour the ruins, not for glory, but for a 'conch-shaped artifact'—a piece of ancient technology that can heal and calm. Baek Saheon, a volunteer motivated by loot, manages his team with calculated selfishness, intending to use them as decoys if necessary. While searching, Baek Saheon notices a shadow flitting near a streetlamp. He initially dismisses it as a common stray cat, but a sudden chill and a glimpse of a terrifying crimson halo—resembling a writhing mass of vermin—cause him to panic. He uses his hidden violet inverse eye to investigate. The terrifying shape vanishes instantly, leaving him confused. As he approaches the corner where the shadow appeared, he finds a phrase carved into the dust with sharp claws.
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5:20
355
Chapter 355
Kim Soleum, currently in a feline form, reflects on the horrific reality of the Mermaid Grave ghost story, where children and adults slaughter each other amidst infected entities. He realizes that simply surviving is not enough and seeks a way to save the children. He recalls an exploration log regarding the Moonlight Tattoo Shop and decides to investigate. Moving on all fours to avoid infection, he reaches the western outskirts and finds the Moonlight Tattoo Shop's rear entrance, which is marked 'By appointment only'. Despite not having an appointment, he knocks with a paw and slides a note under the door. After a few seconds, the lock disengages, and he slips inside the shop.
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5:02
Chapter 355
Kim Soleum, currently in a feline form, reflects on the horrific reality of the Mermaid Grave ghost story, where children and adults slaughter each other amidst infected entities. He realizes that simply surviving is not enough and seeks a way to save the children. He recalls an exploration log regarding the Moonlight Tattoo Shop and decides to investigate. Moving on all fours to avoid infection, he reaches the western outskirts and finds the Moonlight Tattoo Shop's rear entrance, which is marked 'By appointment only'. Despite not having an appointment, he knocks with a paw and slides a note under the door. After a few seconds, the lock disengages, and he slips inside the shop.
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5:02
356
Chapter 356
Inside the Moonlight Tattoo Shop, Kim Soleum encounters the tattooist, whose appearance is more eerie and alien than during his previous visit. The tattooist, possessing jet-black eyes without whites, initially inspects him as if he were a vulnerable child. Kim Soleum reverts to his child form to communicate, but the shop's atmosphere remains unsettling, revealing that the shop's rules and language are tied to the ghost story itself. Kim Soleum explains he found the back door in the ruined underwater city. The tattooist expresses sadness regarding the dying children. When Kim Soleum asks about the source of infection, the tattooist writes a message that triggers a violent psychic shock in him. The message contains a frantic, bloody stream of consciousness describing silent mites, subterranean lab contamination, and the sinking of the 'final ark'. The tattooist offers him a lemon drink to soothe the physical trauma. Kim Soleum realizes the tattooist is an entity from the Mermaid Grave and that the 'conch' object is associated with intense disgust. He concludes his visit by requesting temporary tattoo stickers in exchange for a review, aiming to acquire abilities to help escape the disaster.
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6:53
Chapter 356
Inside the Moonlight Tattoo Shop, Kim Soleum encounters the tattooist, whose appearance is more eerie and alien than during his previous visit. The tattooist, possessing jet-black eyes without whites, initially inspects him as if he were a vulnerable child. Kim Soleum reverts to his child form to communicate, but the shop's atmosphere remains unsettling, revealing that the shop's rules and language are tied to the ghost story itself. Kim Soleum explains he found the back door in the ruined underwater city. The tattooist expresses sadness regarding the dying children. When Kim Soleum asks about the source of infection, the tattooist writes a message that triggers a violent psychic shock in him. The message contains a frantic, bloody stream of consciousness describing silent mites, subterranean lab contamination, and the sinking of the 'final ark'. The tattooist offers him a lemon drink to soothe the physical trauma. Kim Soleum realizes the tattooist is an entity from the Mermaid Grave and that the 'conch' object is associated with intense disgust. He concludes his visit by requesting temporary tattoo stickers in exchange for a review, aiming to acquire abilities to help escape the disaster.
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6:53
357
Chapter 357
Kim Soleum completes his transaction at the Moonlight Tattoo Shop, writing a positive review with his paw to receive three free basic tattoo stickers. Meanwhile, near the alley, Ryu Jaekwan and Agent Choi observe the situation. They discuss the Bureau's policy of not revealing the truth about the 'Twinkle Twinkle Ocean Palace' being a hypnosis-induced hallucination to prevent trauma. They notice the Daydream Inc. Field Exploration Team approaching, disguised as 'cute animal-themed drinking fountains' (butterfly, pony, and goat masks). Ryu Jaekwan recognizes the man in the goat mask as a coworker of Kim Soleum and feels protective, wanting to prevent the company from finding Kim. Agent Choi suggests monitoring the Daydream employees rather than immediate confrontation. The chapter ends with Jin Nasol noticing Kim Soleum (described as a 'dumb brat') sprinting toward her, followed by 'special variant' mer-children who lack tails.
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6:33
Chapter 357
Kim Soleum completes his transaction at the Moonlight Tattoo Shop, writing a positive review with his paw to receive three free basic tattoo stickers. Meanwhile, near the alley, Ryu Jaekwan and Agent Choi observe the situation. They discuss the Bureau's policy of not revealing the truth about the 'Twinkle Twinkle Ocean Palace' being a hypnosis-induced hallucination to prevent trauma. They notice the Daydream Inc. Field Exploration Team approaching, disguised as 'cute animal-themed drinking fountains' (butterfly, pony, and goat masks). Ryu Jaekwan recognizes the man in the goat mask as a coworker of Kim Soleum and feels protective, wanting to prevent the company from finding Kim. Agent Choi suggests monitoring the Daydream employees rather than immediate confrontation. The chapter ends with Jin Nasol noticing Kim Soleum (described as a 'dumb brat') sprinting toward her, followed by 'special variant' mer-children who lack tails.
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6:33
358
Chapter 358
In a dim alley, Jin Nasol (Assistant Manager Butterfly) engages in a skirmish with disguised Disaster Management Bureau agents who are posing as mer-children. The agents use glass-based attacks and restraint rounds. Jin Nasol, prioritizing mission points over combat, uses her wire-nail weapon to fight back. She identifies a potential tactical advantage: if the agents are protecting the 'mer-children,' it implies the children might be considered civilians, a vital piece of intel. To facilitate her escape, Jin Nasol uses Kang Yihak (the pony-masked rookie) and Baek Saheon (the goat-masked employee) as decoys, promising Baek Saheon gold for his cooperation. As Jin Nasol attempts to flee, she is paralyzed by bell-tipped guillotine rounds deployed by the Bureau. Amidst the chaos, a massive, incomprehensible cosmic entity appears in the sky, emitting 'whispers of the abyss' that cause immediate psychological distress, convulsions, and madness in those who hear it. The chapter ends with a massive shadow of a mouth appearing over the alley, threatening to swallow everything.
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7:31
Chapter 358
In a dim alley, Jin Nasol (Assistant Manager Butterfly) engages in a skirmish with disguised Disaster Management Bureau agents who are posing as mer-children. The agents use glass-based attacks and restraint rounds. Jin Nasol, prioritizing mission points over combat, uses her wire-nail weapon to fight back. She identifies a potential tactical advantage: if the agents are protecting the 'mer-children,' it implies the children might be considered civilians, a vital piece of intel. To facilitate her escape, Jin Nasol uses Kang Yihak (the pony-masked rookie) and Baek Saheon (the goat-masked employee) as decoys, promising Baek Saheon gold for his cooperation. As Jin Nasol attempts to flee, she is paralyzed by bell-tipped guillotine rounds deployed by the Bureau. Amidst the chaos, a massive, incomprehensible cosmic entity appears in the sky, emitting 'whispers of the abyss' that cause immediate psychological distress, convulsions, and madness in those who hear it. The chapter ends with a massive shadow of a mouth appearing over the alley, threatening to swallow everything.
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7:31
359
Chapter 359
The cosmic phenomenon subsides, leaving the characters in a state of vacant shock. Kim Soleum, currently in the form of a black cat, realizes he can exploit the lingering terror. He uses a 'music-note tattoo sticker' to project authoritative, albeit nonsensical, thoughts as spoken words. He reveals a 'fake Necronomicon'—a botched, humorous imitation of a cosmic tome that, due to its 'scam' nature, induces intense psychological delusions of horror in those nearby. Kim Soleum uses this item to manipulate the crowd, leading both the Daydream Inc. employees and the Bureau agents into a state of trance-like obedience. He guides them through the city toward a ruined cathedral at the eastern edge. He leads them to a hidden annex, which he identifies via a damaged painting. Baek Saheon and Kang Yihak assist in uncovering a hidden safe. Inside, they discover twelve 'Angel’s Sigh' conch shells, rare treasures. The employees are gripped by greed but restrained by the fear of the 'cat's' perceived malice. The chapter ends with the Bureau agents, still in child-disguise, looking into the safe and seeing nothing, as the items are invisible to them.
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6:43
Chapter 359
The cosmic phenomenon subsides, leaving the characters in a state of vacant shock. Kim Soleum, currently in the form of a black cat, realizes he can exploit the lingering terror. He uses a 'music-note tattoo sticker' to project authoritative, albeit nonsensical, thoughts as spoken words. He reveals a 'fake Necronomicon'—a botched, humorous imitation of a cosmic tome that, due to its 'scam' nature, induces intense psychological delusions of horror in those nearby. Kim Soleum uses this item to manipulate the crowd, leading both the Daydream Inc. employees and the Bureau agents into a state of trance-like obedience. He guides them through the city toward a ruined cathedral at the eastern edge. He leads them to a hidden annex, which he identifies via a damaged painting. Baek Saheon and Kang Yihak assist in uncovering a hidden safe. Inside, they discover twelve 'Angel’s Sigh' conch shells, rare treasures. The employees are gripped by greed but restrained by the fear of the 'cat's' perceived malice. The chapter ends with the Bureau agents, still in child-disguise, looking into the safe and seeing nothing, as the items are invisible to them.
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6:43
360
Chapter 360
Kim Soleum continues to lead the group, successfully using the 'logic of the tale'—where running blindly leads to death—to ensure the terrified factions follow him. He navigates them through the city, past ulcerous slime, toward a ruined cathedral. He leads them to a concealed annex. Baek Saheon, acting on the cat's 'hints,' directs Kang Yihak to move a painting, revealing a hidden iron safe. The safe is opened to reveal twelve 'Angel’s Sigh' conch shells. The Daydream Inc. employees are overcome by greed but paralyzed by the fear that the cat (Kim Soleum) will trigger a horrific consequence if they act rashly. The Bureau agents, still disguised as children, approach the safe. While the employees see the treasures, the agents—due to their current state/disguise—perceive the safe as empty. The chapter ends with Agent Choi questioning Agent Bronze about the empty interior.
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7:10
Chapter 360
Kim Soleum continues to lead the group, successfully using the 'logic of the tale'—where running blindly leads to death—to ensure the terrified factions follow him. He navigates them through the city, past ulcerous slime, toward a ruined cathedral. He leads them to a concealed annex. Baek Saheon, acting on the cat's 'hints,' directs Kang Yihak to move a painting, revealing a hidden iron safe. The safe is opened to reveal twelve 'Angel’s Sigh' conch shells. The Daydream Inc. employees are overcome by greed but paralyzed by the fear that the cat (Kim Soleum) will trigger a horrific consequence if they act rashly. The Bureau agents, still disguised as children, approach the safe. While the employees see the treasures, the agents—due to their current state/disguise—perceive the safe as empty. The chapter ends with Agent Choi questioning Agent Bronze about the empty interior.
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7:10
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