The New Oldest Dream

Chapter 5: The Third Main Scenario and Hidden Challenges

The tense atmosphere in Chungmuro Station was shattered by a sudden announcement that echoed through the air:

[The third main scenario will now begin.]

Yoo Joonghyuk's eyes narrowed as he processed the information. He knew what was coming - the green zones and the challenges they would bring.

"Everyone, gather around," he called out to the survivors. "We need to prepare for what's ahead."

As the group huddled together, Yoo Joonghyuk explained the concept of green zones - areas of relative safety amidst the chaos of the scenarios. But he also warned of the dangers that lurked within them.

"There's a man who can create and control fortresses," he explained, careful not to explicitly name Gong Pildu as one of the Ten Evils. "If we encounter his zone, we must be extremely careful. His ability to fortify an area makes his green zone particularly formidable."

Jung Heewon, still recovering from her fever, asked weakly, "How do we find these green zones?"

"They'll stand out from the surrounding destruction," Yoo Joonghyuk replied. "Look for areas that seem unnaturally stable or protected."

As they discussed strategies, the air shimmered, and a map appeared before them, showing the locations of nearby green zones. Yoo Joonghyuk studied it intently, his mind racing with possibilities.

"We need to find a green zone before nightfall," he stated firmly. "It'll be our best chance for survival in the early stages of this scenario."

The group set out into the ruined streets of Seoul, eyes scanning for any sign of a safe haven. Abandoned vehicles and debris made navigation difficult, forcing them to move cautiously. The once-familiar cityscape had been transformed into an alien landscape, filled with dangers at every turn.

As night began to fall, the group finally spotted a promising area - a small neighborhood that seemed largely untouched by the chaos. Yoo Joonghyuk directed the others to make camp there.

"I'm going to scout ahead," he told them. "There may be hidden zones that are less obvious."Despite their protests, Yoo Joonghyuk set off alone into the darkening city. He moved swiftly and silently, relying on his experience from countless regressions to guide him. After hours of searching, he discovered what he was looking for - a concealed entrance, barely visible in the rubble.

Yoo Joonghyuk slipped inside, finding himself in a hidden green zone. It was small but well-protected, offering valuable resources and potential allies. As he explored, he knew this discovery could be crucial for their survival in the challenges to come.

As he prepared to return to the others, a familiar presence tickled at the edge of his consciousness.

'Joonghyuk-ssi,' Kim Dokja's voice whispered, 'there's something important nearby. Look for Samyeongdang's statue.'

Yoo Joonghyuk's eyes scanned the area, finally settling on a weathered stone figure partially hidden by rubble. "I see it," he muttered.