Chapter 1 — I'm an Infinite Regressor, But I've Got Stories to Tell

Chapter 1

The narrator reflects on the 1183rd regression, accepting that they are a failure who cannot prevent the world's destruction, unlike the optimistic tropes of infinite regression novels. They describe how repeated regressions cause mental cracks, a theme illustrated through their relationship with Emit Schopenhauer, a German old man known as 'Old Man Scho'. Despite their differing backgrounds and ages, they became allies after discovering they shared the power of infinite regression. Initially wary, their bond solidified after they cooperatively defeated the monster 'Ten Legs' on the 10th regression. This victory broke down their mutual suspicion, turning them into comrades who shared their struggles, including drinking coffee and soju in abandoned cafes. Scho reveals the source of his despair: he regresses to June 17th every time, but exactly one minute after resetting, a gate opens in Seoul, killing his wife who is attending a conference there. No matter how many times he calls, the physical distance and her silent phone prevent him from saving her in the mere 10 seconds he has before the catastrophe. Over 120 combined years of regressions, he only spends about 120 seconds with her. His grief drives him to seek impossible solutions, such as teleportation or resurrection magic, believing he can solve the problem if he finds the right ability or person within that critical minute. This obsession consumes him, leading to bizarre thoughts and increased drinking. On the 23rd regression, the narrator arrives at their pre-arranged meeting spot to find Scho missing. Realizing the danger, he rushes to Scho’s starting point, the old Baekje Hospital. There, he finds Scho’s headless corpse on the rooftop. The narrator concludes that no monster or human could have killed Scho; it was suicide, driven by the madness of his endless, futile quest to save his wife.

Chapter ID

aah3ea5soz

Chapter number

1

Duration

11:06

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Audio + video