《I’ve Become a Genius Actor》


 Chapter 1:

    Chapter 1:

    It wasn''t a particrly lucky day.

    In fact, Han Yooil''s life had always been that way. It wasn''t aint, but Yooil''s life was far from fortunate.

    Yes, if you think about it, today wasn''t especially bad.

    Yooil reassured himself as he looked at his shirt, thoroughly soaked with coffee.

    "Oh no, what should we do! I''m really sorry It''s a white shirt I''ll cover the cleaning costs."

    "No, it''s okay."

    The smell of coffee seeping from the damp shirt could have been unpleasant, but Yooil managed a faint smile. His clear eyes made his smile seem all the more wistful.

    The woman who had spilled the coffee stopped her flustered movements and stared nkly at his face.

    "I live nearby. Don''t worry too much."

    "Ah, yes Yes? Wait a minute"

    Yooil bowed his head and then left the caf, thinking that the very idea of studying there might have been a mistake.

    <i>I''ll sign up for a reading room tomorrow. And pay for some online courses''</i>

    A sigh naturally escaped him. It was a world where you spent money just by breathing.

    People were gathering under the cherry blossom trees, taking photos. The sight of the pink petals fluttering like snow somehow made his heart flutter.

    Freshly discharged from the military, a slightly different reality awaited himpared to his peers. He had no parents, no siblings, and no money. Nor did he have the luxury to envy others.

    At that moment, someone bumped into Yooil''s chest forcefully.

    Yooil instinctively bowed and apologized. But as he was about to lift his head, he felt a strange chill.

    Was it suddenly windy?

    Yooil thought, hunching over.

    "Excuse me, are you Han Yooil?"

    He looked up at the unfamiliar voice, only to see sparkling eyes.

    More precisely, only the eyes were visible. A man wearing a unique design white hood and a thin mask covering his mouth. Yooil watched him cautiously.

    "Yes, that''s me Who are you?"

    "Whoa! Wow! Amazing!"

    The hooded man jumped on the spot and then abruptly grabbed Yooil''s hand.

    Caught without a chance to evade, Yooil flinched for a moment. The man''s hand was cold. Despite it being mid-April spring, the man seemed to emit a chill as if he had been walking outside for 30 minutes in mid-winter.

    He said excitedly.

    "Can I, can I try it just once?"

    "What?"

    "A handshake! Oh, this is a handshake, right?"

    "Uh?"

    Yooil''s hand was already being moved up and down several times. It was an awkward action to be called a handshake.

    The man''s eyes sparkled as he shouted.

    "Thank you so much, really, thank you!"

    "!"

    Before Yooil could say anything, the strange man vanished in an instant.

    He literally disappeared. Blinking just a few times, the man had blended into the crowd and was no longer visible.

    "What was that, really?"

    Yooil looked down at his hand.

    <i>Living life, you encounter such things.'' </i>Muttering to himself, Yooil put his hand in his pocket. It might have been his imagination, but the tips of his fingers felt tingly.

    * * *

    Neuralwork secured. Heart rate normal. Body temperature normal. Oxygen saturation normal.

    Yooil opened his eyes to an unfamiliar voice. It was a smooth and gender-neutral voice.

    Blinking several times in a drowsy state, he heard the voice again.

    Good morning, Mr. Han Yooil.

    Yooil rubbed his eyes and looked around the house, unable to pinpoint the source of the sound.

    His phone was off, having run out of battery. Hisptop and TV were off as well. Plus, his aunt had been at work for a long time.

    <i>Did I hear wrong?''</i>

    Maybe it was the stress he had been unconsciously umting. Yooil shook his head and sat down. At that moment, the neutral voice resonated in his head again.

    AI Nano Dictionary, Brion V.15, is now analyzing your aptitudes and talentsprehensively.

    Yooil was so startled that he sprang up, forgetting even to scream.

    <i>AI Nano?''</i>

    Yes, Brion V.15 is an AI dictionary in the form of nanorobots, currently connected to the neuralwork of your cerebral cortex. It is now analyzing your aptitudes and talents.

    The voice'' echoed again, as if responding to Yooil''s thoughts.

    Yooil''s mouth fell open. He ruffled his hair in front of the mirror. His scalp looked unnervingly normal.

    His heart began to race uncontrobly.

    <i>Am I going crazy?''</i>

    While Yooil was pulling at his hair, the uninvited guest in his brain spoke to him in a monotone voice.

    Congrattions. Your destined career is actor''!

    What?

    When Yooil asked back in a daze, the voice posed a question.

    Would you like to choose the career of actor''?

    In the midst of overwhelming confusion, Han Yooil''s rational self spoke up.

    "But I need to prepare for the civil service exam?"

    Do you choose not to pursue the career of actor''?

    Despite the emotionless tone, Yooil felt as if the question was criticizing him.

    But he had no choice. He was a poor man in his twenties dreaming of a stable future.

    Are you sure you won''t regret this?

    "Why would I regret"

    In 30 seconds, the device connected to your cerebral cortex will explode. If the device explodes, there is a 99.8% probability that you will lose some brain functions or potentially die.

    "What?"

    30, 29, 28

    "This is insane, damn it! Fine, I''ll do it, I''ll be an actor!"

    After a brief silence, the flowing voice resonated in his head.

    Understood. Starting now, Brion V.15 will guide you on the optimal path towards your destined career as an actor.

    It was unmistakably clear that something had gone terribly wrong.

    * * *

    Han Yooil had never been particrly lucky in life, nor had he lived a dramatic existence. Since losing his parents in an ident at a young age, he had lived life as a perfect stability-seeker. He was always quiet, spent his school years studying, and did nothing else.

    Of course, he quite liked dramatic content. He enjoyed movies and books, and his passion for literature led him to major in Korean literature. He did end up joining the military after pondering over his career path for a semester.

    Mr. Han Yooil, you''re awake.

    Yooil clenched his eyes shut as he was greeted by the voice the moment he woke up.

    Despite hearing it every morning, he couldn''t get used to it.

    Good morning. It would be good for your condition to drink some warm tea.

    It had already been a month since this unidentified AI nanorobot had clung to his brain. Despite iming to be merely a dictionary, the nanorobot kept trying to train him.

    You need to project your voice using your diaphragm. Take a deep breath and project your voice as if you are throwing it 5 meters ahead. Ah, Eh, Ee, Oh, Oo Yes, well done. Repeat five times.

    "Enough already"

    In 40 seconds, the device connected to your cerebral cortex will explode. If the device explodes, there is a 99.8% probability that

    This was how it threatened him.

    Damn it.

    Thanks to this, he hadn''t even started his civil service exam preparation. Yooil did aerobic exercises every day, practiced diaphragmatic breathing and voice projection, and had to memorize and recite a few lines of dialogue naturally.

    That''s not to say he didn''t try anything to remove the nanorobot. Despite being financially strapped, he had gone as far as to get an X-ray, but the doctor shook his head, finding nothing unusual, and cautiously rmended seeing a psychiatrist.

    "That''s not necessary. Thank you."

    As Yooil trudged out of the hospital, the AI nanorobot spoke.

    Mr. Yooil, I am the Brion series Nano Dictionary, thetest beta test version V.15. Therefore, it''s impossible to be fully retrieved by anyone other than the developer.

    <i>So who is this developer?''</i>

    Currently does not exist.

    It was a meaningful answer. After that, no matter how much Yooil inquired, Brion refused to give a proper response.

    Suddenly, Yooil remembered the strange man with the weird hood.

    The odd person who suddenly grabbed his hand and shook it.

    <i>Could that man be the developer?''</i>

    I cannot answer that question.

    After a moment of thought, Yooil nodded and asked.

    <i>You can answer anything about the past, right?''</i>

    Correct.

    <i>So, you can''t freely answer about things that exist in the future?''</i>

    .

    Yooil bit his lip in thought.

    <i>Answers anything about the past, but remains silent about things happening after the current moment.''</i>

    <i>I get it. That, AI Nano Dictionary''</i>

    Please call me Brion, Mr. Han Yooil.

    Although Yooil didn''t know why the developer targeted him, he was certain that the crazed AI nanorobot''s owner was from the future.

    <i>But was I really the target in the first ce?''</i>

    Maybe the developer had left his robot behind by mistake. Considering it was a beta test version, the developer mighte back to retrieve it.

    "Should I just hang on until then?"

    Yooil knew it was not the most rational thought. Maybe after living with the AI robot in his head for a month, he had gone a bit mad.

    As Yooil sipped the coffee he bought from a convenience store near the school, pondering various thoughts, Brion spoke up.

    Currently, the Moonmyung University Theater Arts Society is urgently recruiting one male actor for a y scheduled for the end of September.

    <i>So what?''</i>

    I rmend you apply for the audition.

    <i>Why should I?''</i>

    Probability of positive oues in the future, 80.5%

    <i>Enough. Got it.''</i>

    From experience, he knew that if he continued asking, his head would throb from the lengthy exnations.

    <i>A theater society''s performance.''</i>

    Theater Arts Society.

    Yooil had seen a performance by Moonmyung University''s theater society once. Not long after his admission, an outgoing ssmate, fond of socializing, had taken a few friends to the small theater at school.

    <i>Our school''s theater society is really famous. The ys they put up every year are so interesting!''</i>

    The ssmate, who loved theater, would excitedly share such information. Thanks to that, Yooil was quite informed about Moonmyung University''s theater society. They usually performed original ys or adaptations, and asionally participated in theater festivals for college students. Most of the actors were also selected from within the society.

    <i>I want to join too but I heard it''s really strict. Maybe one out of ten applicants get in.''</i>

    Two years ago, that''s what Yooil''s ssmate had said before he was rejected.

    You are more than capable, Mr. Han Yooil. Believe in yourself.

    <i>Please only answer when I ask.''</i>

    Yooil shook his head and took a sip of his coffee.

    He had a foreboding feeling that his life, which had never been smooth, wouldn''t be trouble-free in the future either.

    * * *

    At the same time, about 10km away from Yooil, in the Moonmyung University Theater Arts Society''s club room, a frantic scream was escaping.

    "Sssshhhh! How can we not have a lead actor for a y that''s in a month?!"

    It was a desperate and rough cry.

 Chapter 2:

    Chapter 2:

    The student council building''s third floor was lined with club rooms adorned with signs in various fonts. The president of Moonmyung University''s Theater Arts Society burst into one of these rooms, nudging her dozing ssmate with her foot.

    "Hey! Wake up. Aren''t you going to audition for the actor role?"

    "Ah, that''s today, right?"

    The one sprawled on the floor muttered, slowly getting up from where he was virtually glued to the club room floor.

    "Why are you always lying down like you''re dead whenever I see you?"

    "Eh I''m going now."

    The girl left the room with a vacant look in her eyes, hastily putting on a hat. She was Heo Jiyu, the director of this y.

    "Hey, Heo Jiyu. Get a grip. Even without that guy, we should have at least one candidate who can act."

    "Yeah."

    Heo Jiyu was like a person who had lost a few screws. Justst week, the lead actor they had carefully selected after a lot of consideration for herst production before graduation suddenly announced he was going abroad for anguage course. She had to start from scratch again.

    Heo Jiyu sighed and settled into an empty ssroom that was soon to be the audition venue.

    <i>Can''t even drag him back from his studies''</i>

    After three mediocre applicants passed by, it was time for thest one.

    "Pleasee in."

    Heo Jiyu listlessly raised her head, almost resigned to her fate, but her eyes widened at the sight of a tall man with a fair and handsome face.

    "Hello, I''m Han Yooil."

    "Okay, please perform any two of the specified scripts."

    "Understood."

    Han Yooil bowed his head briefly, then slowly lifted it again.

    Soon, a solid baritone voice flowed.

    "My love, my wife."

    In that instant, Jiyu, who had been watching Yooil without much hope, took a deep breath.

    "Even the god of death, who has drunk the honey of your breath, has not conquered your beauty.*"

    <i>Wait. This isn''t one of the specified scripts?''</i>

    But neither the president nor Jiyu could interrupt him. Han Yooil had already begun the next line.

    "I will stay with you forever. Not leaving this dark pce of night but staying with you in eternal rest.*"

    Han Yooil, articting each word clearly, slowly lifted his hand into the air. His fingertips trembled slightly.

    Heo Jiyu was unable to think, just staring at Yooil''s trembling hand and eyes.

    Romeo and Juliet.

    A y by Shakespeare that had been remade into movies and ys countless times. It would be strange not to know it.

    <i>But this performance''</i>

    Heo Jiyu narrowed her brows. The Romeo portrayed by Han Yooil was different.

    His Romeo was not just filled with grief and anger from losing his beloved but also a human being afraid of the impending death.

    The fear of death he was feeling was clearer than the image of a boy fallen in love.

    "I will proceed with the next performance."

    Snapped out of her trance by Han Yooil''s voice, Heo Jiyu came back to reality.

    Yooil, who had been closing his eyes for a moment, continued with another script. This time, it was one of the specified ones.

    "Where where is this ce?"

    The young man standing in front of Heo Jiyu began to look around, his clear eyes filled with confusion.

    "Who are you?"

    Heo Jiyu held her breath. Han Yooil hade right up to her, staring directly into her eyes.

    "It''s my first time seeing such attire"

    Heo Jiyu almost responded instinctively before catching her breath.

    It felt as if he was speaking right in front of her nose, but Han Yooil had only stepped a few paces forward.

    <i>That startled me.''</i>

    The Romeo'' in front of her seemed to be reaching out to grab the hem of a garment in front of him. He then urgently continued.

    "Wait, Juliet! Where''s Juliet? I must find her at once!"

    However, the imaginary passerby ignored Romeo'' and walked away. Romeo''s'' gaze despondently swept through thin air.

    "Please someone tell me I must go to Juliet"

    Romeo,'' with a face full of pain, lowered his head. Slowly, small tears formed in his eyes.

    "!"

    Heo Jiyu nkly watched his tears roll down his cheeks.

    "That''s all."

    After watching Han Yooil for a moment, Heo Jiyu asked in a low voice.

    "Mr. Han Yooil."

    "Yes."

    "You realize the first script you performed wasn''t one of the specified ones, right?"

    "Yes. But I thought it was necessary."

    "Why?"

    "Because the y the theater society is presenting is <Romeo in Wondend>. It''s a reinterpretation of a famous original work, so I believed it was also necessary to analyze the existing characters."

    Indeed, the y Heo Jiyu wrote was a modern fantasy reinterpretation of Romeo and Juliet.

    It was a story about Romeo, whomitted suicide after seeing Juliet''s lifeless body, waking up in modern times, and struggling with confusion as the modern Juliet does not remember him.

    <i>What''s with this guy?''</i>

    Heo Jiyu bit her lip. It was hard to hide her expression.

    <i>It''s not perfect yet.''</i>

    The current Yooil was clearly unfinished. Probably he hadn''t been acting for long.

    But.

    <i>Something''s different.''</i>

    Most people have stiff masks.

    Masks hardened by frequently used expressions and words. Breaking one''s mask and making others immerse in their performance'' is a difficult task.

    Han Yooil was different.

    <i>He doesn''t have such a mask.''</i>

    That was talent.

    "Mr. Han Yooil?"

    "Yes."

    "Wee to the theater society."

    Heo Jiyu said, lifting her head. The president, who looked at her in surprise, was even more startled.

    She was smiling softly, a radiant smile on her face.

    * * *

    "Did this really work?"

    Yooil muttered in disbelief as he left the student council building. Then Brion confidently spoke.

    Congrattions, Mr. Han Yooil.

    In fact, Yooil had been skeptical right up until just before the audition.

    As soon as he decided to participate in the audition, Brion started Shakespeare lessons. It was understandable up to the Shakespeare lessons, but preparing Romeo''s original script instead of the specified ones was hard to grasp.

    But it actually worked.

    As predicted, the project required analysis of the original characters.

    <i>You''re quite useful.''</i>

    Thank you.

    Why did Brion say his destined career was actor''?

    Han Yooil couldn''t easily guess why.

    He wasn''t entirely inexperienced with admiring the performances of actors in movies, dramas, and ys, and wishing to be like them But he had never thought he had that much talent.

    Especially since he had never nned to start.

    So now it begins, Mr. Han Yooil. And there''s something I need to tell you.

    <i>What''s that?''</i>

    You have 15 minutes left until your part-time job starts.

    "Damn."

    Even if he couldn''t prepare for the civil service exam, he still had to do his part-time job.

    Brion, acknowledging Yooil''s immediateck of financialfort, epted the situation through analysis.

    A calm voice resonated in his head.

    I will guide you to the GU Convenience Store'' via the optimal route.

    Yooil, following Brion''s guidance, started running like mad.

    * * *

    Time flew by swiftly.

    Yooil had returned to school, and the campus was bustling with students. Just like when he first entered the school, Yooil juggled part-time work and lectures. But he was busier than before due to the daily theater practice.

    Yooil''s ssmate, Kim Jinwoo, who had failed to get into the theater society, muttered while looking at a poster attached to the student council building.

    "What the, Han Yooil. You said you weren''t interested in the theater society or anything, yet you''re participating as an actor?"

    "That''s it just happened."

    Kim Jinwoo nced sideways at his ssmate, who awkwardly changed the subject.

    He was gentle and tall, capturing the attention of the girls as soon as he enrolled, yet he barely participated in any department activities and left for the military right after the first semester.

    Frankly, Kim Jinwoo thought Han Yooil was a rich kid when he first saw him. It wasn''t just because of his fair, clean skin, but also because of his aloof aura. It was only towards the end of the semester that he realized Yooil''s intense studying and avoiding get-togethers were to not lose his schrship and part-time job ie.

    "Hey, you should have told me first at least."

    "I didn''t know I''d get in."

    "How did you even think about acting? You weren''t even interested."

    "That''s well"

    He didn''t want his brain to explode.

    "I thought acting might be fun."

    It was a convenient response, but saying it out loud made him realize it was true.

    <i>I didn''t hate the practice I''ve done so far.''</i>

    All the practices he had been pushed to do by Brion, even the daily exercise and voice training, weren''t unenjoyable.

    Yeah, it was honestly fun. He was not without worries, though.

    Don''t worry. Brion will take responsibility and help you be the best actor.

    <i>No, that''s not what I meant''</i>

    Never mind. Better not to speak.

    Yooil sighed, then halted as his phone rm suddenly went off. After checking the content, he stopped.

    "Oh, right. There''s extra practice today."

    "Extra practice for the y?"

    "Yeah. I''m off!"

    As he watched Yooil running off, Kim Jinwoo muttered under his breath.

    "Why does he seem to get more handsome every time? Lucky guy."

    * * *

    Tension filled the rehearsal room. The performance was only a week away.

    "Sound team. When the 3rd line of dialogue is delivered, the sound of rain should immediately follow. No stumbling in the control room, got it?"

    "Yes."

    "And stage crew, don''t forget to move the chairs and table during the ckout here."

    "Yes!"

    Heo Jiyu, who initially seemed half-asleep, was now delivering corrections to each team member with sharp, intelligent eyes.

    "Oh, is Yooil here?"

    The members gazed at her in disbelief as her expression visibly rxed.

    "Yes. Sorry for beingte."

    "No, it''s me who called the other teams early."

    "Shall we start practicing from Scene 1 right away?"

    "Let''s do that."

    Han Yooil, after cing his bag down, immediately walked to the center of the rehearsal room. Another actor, Lee Minji, was already there.

    "Hello."

    Lee Minji, aputer science student of the same age as Han Yooil, was also the actress ying Juliet,'' the main character of the y.

    "The run-through begins now."

    As Minjiy down on the floor as if copsing, Heo Jiyu''s voice immediately followed.

    "Bring up the lights."

    Han Yooil, standing upstage, slowly bent at the waist. As he slightly opened his eyes, pure eyes filled with fear were revealed.

    And in an instant, he transformed into Romeo.

    Romeo, approaching hesitantly, copsed as if crumbling upon seeing Juliet lying on the ground. Everyone watching held their breath.

    "This can''t be, Juliet"

    Trembling, Romeo''srge hands reached towards Juliet''s face. He lowered his head to check for breath but his wife no longer exhaled.

    Romeo''s voice quivered finely.

    Romeo, while fearing the death he had no choice but to choose, took out a vial. A whirlwind of emotions surged in his eyes.

    "My love, my wife. Even the god of death, who has drunk the honey of your breath, has not conquered your beauty.*"

    Thest line of Act 1 was added after Yooil''s audition.

    Romeo, belonging solely to Juliet.''

    This was the reason why everyone in the Theater Arts Society understood Heo Jiyu''s favoritism.

    Everyone watching. Gazed at him with their mouths agape.

    If one were to witness this scene, they would all agree.

    No one could think of a Romeo'' other than Han Yooil.

    Heo Jiyu nodded in satisfaction. Her eyes, shadowed by fatigue, sparkled with vitality.

    <i>He''s really good.''</i>

    Forgetting even her chronic fatigue, Heo Jiyu immersed herself in the preparations for the y. Everything was flowing smoothly in its own way.

    Until an unforeseen problem erupted from somewhere else.

    *William Shakespeare, "Romeo and Juliet"

 Chapter 3:

    Chapter 3:

    "Romeo in Wondend," as the title suggestsa mix of Lewis Carroll''s "Alice in Wondend" and Shakespeare''s "Romeo and Juliet"was a departure from the serious, realist ys the theater society had previously put on.

    "Are you sure this y is going to be fun, Han Yooil?" Jiyu asked.

    Yooil nodded in response.

    "It really is fun. The characters are great too."

    "I''m d. I wanted to put on a fun y before I graduate."

    Heo Jiyu said this as she downed a caffeinated beverage. Her dark circles had deepened since the first time Yooil saw her.

    "Are you sleeping enough, Noona?"

    "Of course. I get at least two hours a day."

    ""

    Brion spoke softly.

    It seems that the information about humans during this period oveing physiological needs with caffeine was not an exaggeration.

    Hearing this made Yooil curious about how future humans overcame their physiological needs. Of course, future knowledge'' wouldn''t be shared.

    As such, the theater society''s performance day was approaching without any incidents.

    Until that news'' was heard.

    "What, the acting department''s musical schedule has changed?"

    Heo Jiyu frowned and asked. The youngest stage crew member looked distraught.

    "There was an issue with the equipment, so they moved the dates, and it''s now the same as ours, September 27th to 29th The times are the same too."

    Unlike the theater society, which used the small theater in the student council building, the acting department held their ys in a theater in the Art Building.

    The shing performance was a project by the third-year students. At first nce, it didn''t seem like a significant problem, but the crucial pointy elsewhere.

    "Ji Eunho is one of the actors in that performance"

    Ji Eunho.

    He was the famous leader of the idol group ck Sea.'' Yooil hadn''t been aware of his presence, but it seemed he had been attending school all this while.

    <i>I heard he enrolled in our university''s acting department.''</i>

    Moonmyung University''s Theater Arts Society sold tickets through fundraising and then sold the remaining tickets on-site. There were considerable expenses involved in renting the school theater, buying stage props, and installing partitions.

    Everyone''s expression turned serious.

    "Many people are already asking to cancel their tickets. What should we do"

    "What can we do? For now, we have to cancel for those who are asking."

    Though she spoke as if it were nothing, Heo Jiyu''s expression darkened as well.

    The theater scheduled for Romeo in Wondend'' has a capacity of about 60 people. With a total of 6 performances, it can amodate up to 360 audience members. The acting department''s practical production performance has the same capacity.

    <i>How many have pre-booked our performance so far?''</i>

    A total of 32 people have pre-booked Romeo in Wondend.''

    32 people meant about 5 people per performance.

    <i>And the acting department''s performance?''</i>

    All performances are sold out.

    It was expected. Even if it''s the same student performance, a show with a famous entertainer can''t be beaten. The president tried to keep a cheerful tone.

    "Hey, it''s okay! Everyone, just promote it more to your acquaintances, and we''ll be fine, okay?"

    "Yes"

    Uncertain responses were heard.

    It was then Brion spoke in his monotone voice,

    In the current situation, promoting through SNS seems to be the most effective.

    <i>Isn''t Shining Star already doing the promotion?''</i>

    Shining Star was one of the apps widely used by people in their 20s and 30s,monly referred to as ShaStar'', a popr SNS.

    After a few seconds of silence, Brion continued,

    Among the students currently taking the Understanding Modern Literature'' course with Mr. Yooil, there is one named Lee Hyejin. It would be good to gift her the first ticket to the performance.

    <i>Suddenly?''</i>

    Lee Hyejin is a BlueChat user with tens of thousands of followers. BlueChat is a tform where youmunicate in real-time within a limited number of characters, and it''s an SNS frequently used by those who are fond of certain figures or works. ording to calctions, this method would yield the most effective promotional results

    Wait a minute

    <i>Why do you even know that?''</i>

    Misinterpreting Yooil''s troubled expression, Heo Jiyu gently patted his shoulder, saying,

    "It''s okay. It''s not like we''re trying to make money or anything."

    "No, that''s not what I mean"

    "Just apply for a school support program next semester. You can even ask the professors."

    Hearing Jiyu''s forced cheerfulness, Yooil silently nodded.

    If it''s the Understanding Modern Literature'' ss that''s tomorrow.

    * * *

    <i>Ah, this is so boring. I want to go home.''</i>

    The ss was almost over. Despite its title, the course was mostly theoretical, and Lee Hyejin, who had hoped for a creative writing ss, found it difficult and hard to concentrate. She yawned, discreetly scrolling through her BlueChat feed with one hand.

    [@qmfforvjcjehfdl Next week there''s a Ji Eunho performance at Moonmyung University omg]

    [@gmrgmr No, our guy''s concert tickets sold out as soon as they were avable, I''m crying. Is there anyone willing to transfer theirs probably not, right? I know, I''m just crying lol]

    Many of her mutuals were fans of ck Sea. That was the reason her feed had been like this for the past few days. She too knew that Ji Eunho would be performing, though she wasn''t sure what the event was.

    <i>It''s been a while since I saw a y or a musical.''</i>

    Maybe I''ll book a theater on Daehak-ro after ss. With that thought, Hyejin looked away from her phone. Just then, the bell rang at the perfect moment.

    As she was about to leave the ssroom with her bag, someone blocked her way. It was a fairly tall person. Hyejin lifted her head to see the person obstructing her path.

    <i>This person is''</i>

    It was someone who caught her eye whenever the professor persistently questioned the students, delivering clear answers in a pleasant voice.

    <i>Up close, he''s quite handsome.''</i>

    Caught off guard by her own thoughts, Hyejin was brought back to reality by an unexpected voice.

    "You''re Lee Hyejin, right?"

    "Yes, that''s me."

    "I''m putting on a performance at school, and I was hoping you coulde and see it."

    "A performance you say?"

    And then, he handed her a temporary ticket.

    "Present this at the booth on the day of the performance, and it will be exchanged for an official ticket."

    <i>Romeo in the Wondend?''</i>

    Surprised, Hyejin epted the ticket as the man shed a brief smile.

    In that moment, the clutter in Hyejin''s mind seemed to untangle and clear.

    "Yes! I''ll definitelye."

    "Thank you."

    The man spoke smoothly.

    "And Hyejin. Thank you for the thoughtful feedback on thest essay assignment."

    What? Hyejin''s mind raced.

    Right. There was such an assignment. An essay uploaded to the electronic ssroom as a midterm recement, with peer feedback given over the weekend.

    <i>But that was only because you provided excessively detailed feedback on my essay!''</i>

    But by the time she could articte her thoughts, the man had already left after a polite farewell. Hyejin, who had nearly felt a flutter of excitement, managed to calm herself down.

    <i>A y, huh? My first time at a school y.''</i>

    She was even more pleased as she had been contemting watching a y in Daehak-ro.

    "The performance it''s next week, right?"

    * * *

    On the day of the performance, the student union''s small theater was bustling with theater club members.

    Yooil, dressed in a loose white shirt, knit vest, and ck pants, styled his hair with wax and applied simple makeup. The makeup team members had a serious conversation while looking at Yooil''s face.

    "Wow Yooil, you should always look like this. Showing your forehead really brings out your features."

    "No, he''s pretty even with bangs."

    "It''s thanks to the makeup artist."

    "Hey, your skin is so good, we barely had to touch it."

    As Yooil was modestly fixing his attire, a stage team staff member, whom he had be close with while preparing for the y, whispered to him.

    "I heard professors and seniors from the first show areing to watch, including one who already debuted as a writer in Daehak-ro."

    "Wow, there''s a senior who''s already working as a writer?"

    "Yeah. It''s been about 3 years since they graduated, and I heard they''re still writing scripts for ys."

    Yooil knew the theater club was renowned but didn''t expect there to be a senior already working as a writer.

    Heo Jiyu pped her hands loudly and shouted.

    "Everyone, let''s just do as well as we did during practice."

    And then Jiyu approached Yooil, whispering softly.

    "Yooil, don''t worry. Just do as you did in practice."

    "Yes, I''ll do my best."

    Jiyu patted Yooil''s shoulder and walked towards the booth. Watching her back, the reality of the situation began to sink in for Yooil.

    Han Yooil clenched and unclenched his fists. A tingling sensation of anticipation bubbled inside him.

    <i>I''m starting to feel nervous.''</i>

    Heart rate normal. Body temperature normal. Oxygen saturation normal. Slightly nervous but overall stable. The performance is about to start, switching to Do Not Disturb mode''.

    <i>Do Not Disturb mode? That''s a thing?''</i>

    I should have used it earlier.

    At that moment, a faint light escaped from the stage team member''s phone, its brightness turned down to the lowest. It was the theater chat room, kept open to listen for directions.

    15 minutes to the performance.

    House music on.

    .- Audience admission is starting!

    * * *

    Lee Hyejin was unaware there was a small theater in the basement of the student union until she came to watch the y.

    <i>There are more people than I expected.''</i>

    It was 3 PM, and she thought there wouldn''t be many people, but there were quite a few, most of whom seemed to be acquaintances and seniors of the theater club.

    <i>But will this be any good?''</i>

    It was her first time watching a student performance, and frankly, she didn''t have high expectations for a performance put on by students from departments other than acting.

    As she was enjoying the soothing house music, the lights in the auditorium gradually dimmed. Then, a woman dressed in ck appeared on the empty stage. She seemed to be the director of the y.

    "Hello everyone, we sincerely thank all of you for taking time out of your busy schedules to be here. To ensure a smooth viewing experience, please either turn off your phones or switch them to airne mode. Also, please note that you won''t be able to enter or leave during the performance!"

    After the director swiftly concluded the announcements, the theater was engulfed inplete darkness. The sounds of chairs creaking as people moved, coughs, and other noises filled the air.

    <i>I hope it''s interesting.''</i>

    Even if it wasn''t a highly anticipated y, Hyejin didn''t want to give a sugar-coated review, especially not to that courteous student from another department. Thinking of Han Yooil, who had spoken to her so politely, she clenched her hands tightly.

    Soft and poetic piano music began to flow. And the next moment, light filled the stage.

    <i>!''</i>

    In the center of the stagey a woman. She was wearing a long whitece dress, her face pale as shey there.

    Not long after, another actor stepped onto the stage.

    Upon seeing the actor''s face, Lee Hyejin gasped.

    <i>It''s him!''</i>

    Han Yooil on stage looked like apletely different person. Her initial joy was soon reced by a deep focus on the y.

    At that point, Hyejin had no idea.

    That she would be someone who would keeping back to student performances.

 Chapter 4:

    Chapter 4:

    ng-

    Romeo drops the sword he was holding. He drags his weary body, moving his steps painfully towards his cold, lifeless wife, Juliet.

    "Juliet, Juliet" He murmurs as if whispering, checking for Juliet''s pulse.

    Cruelly, his lover''s heart no longer beats. Romeo, shivering, strokes Juliet''s face endlessly.

    Lee Hyejin watched this scene in a daze.

    <i>He''spletely different.''</i>

    Is this really the same person who gave her the ticket to the performance? Really?

    Hyejin watched, holding her breath, focusing on his trembling fingertips and eyes.

    Romeo takes out poison from his pocket and swallows it.

    With eyes filled with fear, horror, and sorrow.

    Then suddenly, the stage goes dark. Only then Hyejin finds herself able to breathe a little.

    <i>Wow''</i>

    It was her first time seeing someone act up close. It was more dynamic and intense than she thought.

    <i>Amazing.''</i>

    Hyejin clutched her pounding heart and blinked.

    Then, a new scene began.

    In the darkness, the noise of a busy city began to emerge. The sound of cars passing by, people walking, and noises from advertisements all mixed together and flowed out.

    As the stage slowly lit up, Romeo, still in the same spot, appeared lying down. The Romeo who had been lying down slowly opened his eyes.

    Someone who discovered Romeo approached him.

    "Hey, why are you lying down here? Have you been drinking?"

    "Who are you? You look unfamiliar."

    "Huh? I''m just a passerby."

    "Juliet, Juliet?! Where is Juliet?!"

    In desperation, Romeo extends his hand. His iling hand grabs the passerby''s cor. The passerby, caught off guard, shakes off his hand roughly.

    "What the heck, I was trying to help and this is what I get"

    "Wait, just a minute!"

    Romeo, with a bewildered face, slowly rises and looks around. Soon, he realizes something is off.

    No matter how much he walks, familiar scenery doesn''t appear.

    The streets made of stone, the beautiful low buildings, the lively squares always full of exciting news, and Ponte Pietra are nowhere to be seen.

    Only then does Romeo realize. This is not Verona.

    "Where is this exactly where am I?"

    And so, Romeo, who lived in 15th-century Verona, Italy, suddenly finds himself in the middle of 21st-century Seoul.

    Romeo continues to speak to the people passing by. No real actors appear on stage, but Romeo, as if catching people who aren''t there, asks where this ce is, how to get back to Verona.

    <i>Even though there''s no one on the stage, it feels so natural.''</i>

    Hyejin quietly admired, watching him.

    As Romeo continues to be rejected by people, he spots Juliet distributing flyers.

    Seeing Juliet, the first thing that melts into Romeo''s face is astonishment.

    Then, longing and joy begin to mix in turn.

    It''s as if drops of different colored paints are falling into water, his facees alive.

    "Juliet!"

    With a cracked voice, Romeo calls out the name he has longed for.

    !''

    Hyejin covers her mouth with her hand. It was because Romeo had run and embraced Juliet in one swift motion.

    "God, you''re alive"

    Romeo murmurs with an expression as if he has gained everything in the world. Hyejin, who had been happily watching them, suddenly changes her expression. The scene that follows is something she had not anticipated at all.

    "What the heck, you crazy man!"

    With a crisp sound, Romeo''s beloved Juliet delivers a strong p to his face.

    "!"

    Hyejin, who had been expecting a romance, was taken aback. A Romeo getting pped by the leadingdy and dragged off to the police station was beyond her expectations. Amidst it all, Romeo adamantly ims to be Juliet''s husband.

    The actor who previously appeared as a passerby now appears as a police officer. The trio creates a situation resembling a si, elicitingughter from the audience. Hyejin, too, chuckled while watching Romeo continue his bizarre antics.

    <i>Ah, this is really funny.''</i>

    The y, not overly serious, allowed for enjoyment even when the pace slowed. Before she knew it, she was seeing him not as Han Yooil'' but as Romeo''.

    Romeo, who hasnded in the strangend of Seoul, is shocked to realize that the woman he calls Juliet'' ispletely different from his Juliet, except for her face.

    The woman Romeo calls Juliet'' is actually Kim Juhee, a regr college student.

    Thinking he''s dreaming, Romeo tries all sorts of ways to return to his previous world, even contemting falling from a height. At that moment, Juhee appears from somewhere and shouts, catching him.

    After a briefmotion, the two manage to have a conversation in a safe ce.

    "Excuse me."

    ""

    "Why do you think I''m your wife?"

    At Juhee''s question, Romeo turns his head.

    He looks for a long time at the woman who closely resembles his lover but is not his beloved.

    "I know because I can see. In my eyes, you are undoubtedly Juliet. My wife, my love"

    He slowly lifts his hand. But his hand doesn''t reach Juhee.

    "No, I know. You are not her."

    "Good to know you realize that."

    "That''s why I am trying to die. To meet her, I have to go to the god of death."

    A transparent tear falls from Romeo''s clear eyes.

    "!"

    Hyejin covers her mouth again, barely holding back an expletiveden exmation.

    <i>Is this for real?''</i>

    Hyejin felt that if a man looked at her like that up close, she would be ready to give him anything he asked for.

    But Juhee, looking at his face, frowns deeply.

    "Nonsense."

    Her neatly arched eyebrows twitch. Surprised, Romeo blinks several times.

    "What did you just say?"

    "Seriously, what''s more important than life? It''s ridiculous If my mom were alive, she''d be smacking your back right now."

    At Juhee''s blunt words, Romeo is taken aback. To the romantic 15th-century Italian, her words are too realistic and harsh. Romeo looks at Juhee as if he''s seen a living corpse.

    "Hey, wake up. This is Seoul. The cutthroat city of Seoul. Instead of moaning about love, go work."

    "Work?"

    "Dobor and get paid. You''re saying you have no money and no home, right?"

    That''s how Romeo begins to do what he had thought of as lower-ssbor.

    Initially makingughable mistakes, Romeo eventually finds his niche.

    He starts working at a medieval-themed caf!

    There, Romeo meets people who like him and gains recognition. He finally begins to live not just as someone''s lover, but as a person with his own dreams.

    "You are my savior."

    At Romeo''s warm words, Juhee shakes her head.

    "To be honest, Romeo, you are my savior."

    "What do you mean"

    "The day you were about to fall from the rooftop, I actually went up there to die. Life was just too hard."

    Avoiding Romeo''s shocked gaze, Juhee continues,

    "The things I said about mothers and all, I was really talking to myself. But after saying that, I really wanted to live."

    Juhee continues her speech slowly.

    "Also seeing someone who wanted to die for love start working and living well it made me want to live well too."

    Romeo looks at her quietly and then smiles softly.

    "You are braver and stronger than any knight I''ve ever seen."

    Then he extends hisrge hand and asks,

    "Will you ept me as a friend?"

    "What, weren''t we friends already?"

    "From now on, we are even stronger friends."

    Juhee chuckles at his remark.

    "Okay. Friends."

    She shakes Romeo''s hand in a straightforward handshake, and their faces, looking at each other with bright expressions, are visible

    and then slowly fade to ck.

    * * *

    Not long after, the lights on the stage turn back on. From the first ckout to the actors taking their final bows, apuse resonates for a long time in the audience.

    Among those pping is So Yijin, a senior of the theater club and a writer active in Daehak-ro. She genuinely liked the y.

    Not just the appropriate humor and touching conclusion, but especially the role of Romeo couldn''t have been more perfect.

    Immediately after the y ended, she caught Heo Jiyu, who was mingling in the crowd.

    "Oh, Jin unnie! Thank you foring."

    "Jiyu, who is that guy?"

    "Ah, Yooil?"

    Jiyu is not surprised by the pointed question. Instead, with a proud face as if bragging about her child, she says,

    "He''s new this time. Han Yooil."

    "Is he from the theater department?"

    "He''s from the Department of Korean Literature. Surprising, right?"

    "Will he continue to act?"

    "I haven''t asked that far Ah, Yooil!"

    Then, Heo Jiyu catches Han Yooil, who ising off stage to cool down. So Yijin, with sparkling eyes behind her sses, approaches Yooil, pushing her short, permed hair behind her ear.

    "I really enjoyed the y."

    Han Yooil awkwardly bows his head, thinking,

    <i>Somehow, she really looks like a writer.''</i>

    You are correct. This person is ywright So Yijin. She wrote the y <Your ss Bottle>, and the musical <Archive>, both scheduled for a rerun in Daehak-ro at the end of this year. If you want to know the exact location of the theaters

    <i>Enough.''</i>

    Han Yooil ignores Brion and looks at So Yijin. She suited the round sses and short hippie perm hair.

    "Where did you learn to act?"

    After a brief hesitation, Yooil answers,

    "Ah I''m self-taught."

    "Self-taught? Including voice projection and movement practice? All by yourself?"

    "Um, yes."

    <i>Impressive.''</i>

    So Yijin looks at Yooil, hiding her expression. She had thought he would at least be an aspiring actor, not a theater major.

    <i>No overacting on stage, clean artiction It''s evident he practiced professionally.''</i>

    But self-taught?

    Impressed, Jin begins to scrutinize Han Yooil from his toes to his face.

    <i>He''s tall, has good proportions, and a decent face.''</i>

    "Yooil, have you considered pursuing theater?"

    "Yes Uh, what?"

    Yooil looks at her, surprised. So Yijin still has a serious expression.

    Han Yooil watches So Yijin''s back as she leaves with his number, a pleased expression on her face.

    That went well. A good start, Mr. Yooil.

    After their first show, the theater club team ordered an early dinner together in the empty theater. While Yooil was biting into arge egg sandwich, Brion addressed him.

    Yooil, it seems you don''t have to worry about the reservation rate anymore.

    <i>What? Why?''</i>

    At that moment, a production team member eating a ham and cheese sandwich suddenly stood up.

    "Wha What! This is crazy!"

    "What''s going on?"

    "Did someone cancel their reservation again?!"

    "No, it''s not that"

    She immediately held out her phone. The screen was filled with recently added reservation details.

    "Wow, what''s this?"

    "Look at the reservation rate increasing in real time!"

    "This is insane!"

    Amidst the surprised voices of the theater club members, Brion''s voice resonated again.

    30 minutes ago, a new post about Romeo in Wondend'' was uploaded by Lee Hyejin on BlueChat. Would you like to see it?

    <i>Is that even possible?''</i>

    Then, a semi-transparent window appeared before his eyes.

    <i>Damn!''</i>

    Yooil bit his lip to stop himself from screaming. Over the gray window that obstructed his view, white letters appeared.

    [@jinnnny

    Guys, if you have time, you must see Moonmyung University Theater Club''s regr y Romeo in Wondend''. The story is one thing, but the acting is insane; btw I''m going to watch the evening show again ffs the aftertaste is still with me I''ll summarize the content below.]

    And below the post, the number of re-chats sharing the post was rising in real time.

 Chapter 5:

    Chapter 5:

    Brion''s prediction was urate.

    After the first performance, the number of reservations steadily increased, and by the evening of thest day, the audience seats were densely filled without a single empty spot.

    Thanks to this, the staff was in a state of great excitement. It was a performance that had the most audience among all the ys they had produced so far. There were many who came to see the y again.

    "Amazing, it''spletely packed!"

    15 minutes before thest performance, a stage team member said, throwing up a double thumbs-up with nervous excitement. Yooil muttered softly.

    "I didn''t expect the audience seats to be full like this."

    "Me neither."

    Lee Minji responded softly. Dressed in Juliet''s costume for the third day, she smiled with a face evidently tense with nerves.

    "Let''s keep up the spirit until the end."

    "Sure."

    And then, they quietly fist-bumped.

    <i>The hand is really cold.''</i>

    It seems to be because of the tension. Currently, Lee Minji''s heart rate is about 20% higher than usual.

    <i> You even measure someone else''s heartbeat now?''</i>

    It was no longer surprising. Han Yooil sighed and was adjusting his outfit when she said,

    "But you really don''t seem nervous."

    Lee Minji added, almost whispering.

    "You''re not trembling at all, even just before the performance."

    "No, I do feel nervous."

    "Hey, this is my third y, and still, every time I''m about to go on stage, my legs tremble and sometimes I even forget my lines"

    She continued,ughing awkwardly.

    "Yesterday, I almost messed up the performance, remember?"

    Han Yooil recalled. Last night, during the performance, Lee Minji had climbed up to the roof and fiercely pped Romeo, intending to stop him from falling.

    -Crazy!

    And the next moment, she forgot her lines.

    If Han Yooil had not pretended to touch his pped cheek and subtly covered his mouth with his hand to whisper the next lines to her, minutes of silence might have passed.

    "I couldn''t say this yesterday because it was so hectic but thank you."

    "Well, it was nothing."

    Yooil, responding in such a manner, looked down at his right hand.

    <i> Am I not the type to get nervous easily?''</i>

    Thinking about it, he realized that he had never experienced his heart beating significantly faster or his legs trembling, either during auditions in front of Heo Jiyu or while performing on stage.

    It was just a sense of excitement and a slight thrill that gently filled his body, like powder dispersing in water.

    Han Yooil, you are naturally not greatly influenced by external factors. Being calm is indeed a very advantageous element in acting.

    <i>Brion.''</i>

    Yes, Yooil.

    <i>Do Not Disturb mode.''</i>

    Understood.

    As Brion''s voice ceased, Yooil could rx his body with a visibly more refreshed expression.

    And thus, the curtain rose for thest performance.

    Yooil recited hisst line, which he had repeated hundreds of times during rehearsals.

    "From now on, we have be even stronger friends."

    "Tch. Alright, friend."

    The final ckout of this stage ensued.

    The audience didn''t stop pping until the lights came back on and the actors finished their bows.

    Yooil made eye contact with each person in the audience, one by one. Everyone was pping passionately with sparkling eyes.

    "He''s so handsome!"

    "Lee Minji is beautiful!"

    "We love you, Romeo!"

    Encouraged by the shouts, smiles appeared on Lee Minji and Han Yooil''s faces.

    <i>Ah.''</i>

    At that moment, Yooil felt something fluffy rising from the depths of his heart. His chest tingled.

    It felt like bubbles would escape if he opened his mouth.

    It was a feeling he had never experienced before. Too intense to be merely considered regret.

    <i>I don''t want to leave the stage yet.''</i>

    It felt as if it wouldn''t be strange if his feet grew roots right there on the stage.

    But the y had ended. The lights that had brightly illuminated the stage were now off. It was time to exit.

    Yooil moved his heavy steps off the stage. Wiping off his sweat, he thought,

    <i>So this is why people do theater.''</i>

    Just then, released from Do Not Disturb mode, Brion promptly replied.

    People say that once you experience the thrill of concluding a y, the painful memories get beautified, and you keep falling into the path of theater.

    Meanwhile, after sending off the audience, Heo Jiyu embraced them with teary eyes.

    "Yooil, Minji!"

    "Ah, Jiyu noona."

    "You did so well! You were the best!"

    And she started to get emotional, saying it was all thanks to them.

    "It''s all because of the great script you wrote, noona."

    "What are you talking about? Everyone who watched the y only talks about the actors!"

    "That''s because-"

    Heo Jiyu didn''t wait for Han Yooil''s response and pulled him by the wrist.

    Before he knew it, he was in the middle of the stage. The theater team took hundreds of photos against the backdrop of the stage set to be dismantled.

    The end of the y wasn''t just the end of a performance.

    The theater team members disassembled the stage together, shared the cake they received, and then,pletely exhausted, headed to their respective homes.

    Yooil, returning with a bouquet, realized his phone in his pocket was ringing.

    [So Yijin Senior: The y ended today, right?]

    [Me: Hello, senior. Thanks to you, it ended well.]

    [So Yijin Senior: Haha, if you''re free this weekend, wannae to Daehangno? I''ll buy you a coffee.]

    Brion spoke as if it had been waiting.

    It seems like a good opportunity.

    <i>I don''t even know why she called yet.''</i>

    Then Brion started to deliver a long speech, having calcted probabilities.

    Therefore, the probability that So Yijin called you this time to propose a new audition or project is high. Do you understand?

    although Yooil didn''t listen properly.

    * * *

    A few dayster, Yooil entered arge coffee shop near Hyehwa Station. In the cafe, where tables filled both the basement level and the second floor, So Yijin was sitting by the window on the second floor.

    "Hello, senior."

    "Oh, you came?"

    Approaching the table, Yooil realized that there was another senior present, in addition to So Yijin. She was a woman with long ck hair and striking red lipstick.

    "We haven''t met before, right? I''m Kim Mijin~ Oh, and by the way, I''m also a graduate of the Department of Korean Literature at Wolmyeong University~ I''m a ssmate of Jinie."

    (tl/n: Jinie refer to Yijin)

    The woman with a unique way of speaking extended her hand for a handshake.

    "Ah, nice to meet you. I''m Han Yooil."

    Then, So Yijin said with a half-hearted look.

    "She insisted oning with me today I''m sorry, Yooil."

    "No, I''m thankful that you came out like this."

    "Oh my~ You''re such a gentleman. I only had a moment to stop by and couldn''t say hello, but I actually saw the y too~ You were really good, junior~?"

    "Really? Did youe to the newbies gathering?"

    So Yijin snorted, mocking her, but Kim Mijin''s expression didn''t change.

    <i>Senior So Yijin was she always this kind of person?''</i>

    She seemedpletely different from the vibe she had when they first met in front of the theater.

    They said they were ssmates, and they seemed quite close.

    Yooil exchanged some simple pleasantries with the two, easing into the conversation. After the initial tension eased with small talk, So Yijin straightened her posture and spoke.

    "Actually, I called you because I have something to ask."

    She then took a small pamphlet out of her bag. It was a pamphlet that looked like a postcard, with a navy background and white stars drawn on it.

    "I wrote a y recently. The reading showcase received a good response, so we are going to stage it as a trial early next year, but it''s a bit unique? It''s a y with two main characters"

    Yooil listened attentively to So Yijin''s exnation.

    The y she had newly written was about a vampire trapped under the ruins of a copsed building.

    It was a story of an immortal vampire, suffering from an extreme lethargy to the point of finding escape tiresome, who meets a young child in the darkness filled with the debris of the building.

    <i>That sounds interesting?''</i>

    A detailed analysis will require reading the entire script, but it seems like a quite intriguing piece.

    So Yijin, seeing the gleam in Yooil''s eyes, seemed pleased. Observing the two, Kim Mijin set down her cup and spoke.

    "Hmm~ I have something to say too."

    She then took out her phone from her bag.

    "I participated as a writer in a movie recently Do you know Director Yoo Jaeho? He''s a director named Yoo Jaeho."

    "Yes, I''m aware."

    Yooil nodded, recognizing the familiar name.

    "But isn''t this person an animation director?"

    What Kim Mijin showed was a photo of Director Yoo Jaeho, known for creating animations that were more acimed abroad than in Korea.

    "Oh, you know! That''s right. Actually, Director Yoo has been preparing for a long time to debut in the film industry. He''s been part of the directing team a few times Anyway, we''re currently collecting profiles of actors, so if it''s okay with you, I was thinking of showing your profile to the director~"

    "Hey, you said you were just going to look and leave earlier!"

    So Yijin eximed with her eyes narrowed into triangles. Kim Mijin smiled widely, her eyes nearly disappearing, and responded.

    "Oh my, the person concerned hasn''t said anything yet~ Why would someone unrted raise their voice~?"

    "How can Yooil say anything when you''re looking at him like that?"

    As soon as she finished speaking, Jin and Mijin both turned their gaze to Han Yooil simultaneously. Yooil, looking back and forth between the two, gave a troubled smile.

    "Ah, it''s fine. We always y around like this."

    "Right~ So don''t feel pressured and just decide~"

    "Yeah, think about it carefully. And if possible,e to the theater scene."

    "Oh my! Do you even have a conscience~? How can you try to drag such a fresh and promising junior into that hell~?"

    "Do you want a real taste of hell?"

    Yooil cautiously asked Brion.

    <i>Are they really close friends?''</i>

    Yes, ording to research, they have been friends for exactly 13 years. It seems you don''t need to worry.

    Despite Brion''s calm voice, the two wereughing and exchanging sharp words.

    "The nature of the work requires delicate acting and a fresh face~ You know there aren''t many good male actors in their 20s, right?"

    "Seriously. You think I don''t know that you''re doing this because everyone you approached turned you down?"

    "Sigh."

    Kim Mijin shot back at So Yijin with an annoyed look.

    "You''re in the same boat with your casting failures! Why, because Choi Jiwon refused, right?"

    So Yijin bit her lip, hit where it hurt.

    Choi Jiwon was a famous actor who had recently clinched the leading roles in major musicals one after the other.

    "Cough cough Anyway, Yooil,e and audition. I''ll speak well of you to the director."

    "No, in my opinion~ Junior here~ would really suit the camera well. Your acting too~"

    Brion, who had been quiet, spoke calmly.

    While the genres are different, both projects are of high quality in terms of artistic value andpletion. It''s difficult to rmend one over the other.

    Yooil agreed with Brion''s statement for the first time in a while. Both projects had clear merits and the content was also intriguing.

    Above all, he was aware that getting the opportunity to audition like this was rare, unless it was for a student film.

    "Thank you both so much for reaching out to me like this."

    "You''lle to the audition, right?"

    "Yes."

    "?!"

    Yooil took the two business cards handed to him simultaneously. Then, with a bright smile to Jin and Mijin, he responded.

    "I will do my best equally."

 Chapter 6:

    Chapter 6:

    "It''s 5,300 won."

    "Thank you~"

    The doorbell attached to the convenience store door chimed cheerfully.

    The convenience store where Yooil worked was one of the closest to the school.

    During his shifts, Brion V.15 never ceased to nag.

    Of course, it''s not impossible. However, considering Yooil''s workload with four final projects and five exams, and preparing for both a y and a movie audition, it realistically seems to be a challenging task. Typically, the time it takes for Yooil toplete a single assignment is

    <i>Brion.</i>

    Yes, Yooil.

    <i>In my life so far, nothing has been realistically more challenging than you.</i>

    Then, Brion fell silent.

    <i>Truthfully, Brion does have a point.</i>

    Yooil''s promise in front of Mijin and Leejin to give my best to both projects equally'' was a spur-of-the-moment statement, made without much thought.

    Yooil wasn''t without worries. However, the desire to ovee those worries was stronger. If he was going to regret choosing one over the other, he figured it was better to just take on the challenge.

    "Please ring these up for me."

    "Ah, yes."

    Yooil scanned the barcode of the 1+1 orange juice offered by a student in a varsity jacket.

    "Payment isplete. Thank you."

    However, the student in the varsity jacket didn''t seem to take his card back even after the payment waspleted. Yooil lifted his head to look at the student. As their eyes met, the student widened his eyes and asked,

    "Excuse me, didn''t you perform in the theater club''s recent y?"

    "Uh Yes. That''s correct."

    "Wow, that''s amazing. I really enjoyed it. Your acting was really good. I was totally moved."

    "Ah, thank you."

    The student gave a thumbs up and then offered Yooil an orange juice.

    After the student left, Yooil realized he was smiling only after seeing his reflection in the mirror across from him. It was the first time someone had recognized him outside the theater.

    Though it wasn''t the same as being on stage, his heart fluttered a bit.

    <i>Brion.</i>

    Yes, Yooil.

    <i>It does seem like it''s going to be tight, preparing properly for both the y and the movie while juggling my studies. But still</i>

    I want to try.

    It was a feeling he was experiencing for the first time. Yooil had never passionately desired something rted to his future. Not even when he got into college.

    After a brief silence, Brion responded slowly.

    Understood. I will now start modifying certain routes.

    There was a peculiar determination in that response.

    <i>Thank you.</i>

    Yooil responded with a chuckle and then suddenly remembered one of his assignments.

    <i>Oh right, Senior Mijin told me to send my profile by this week.</i>

    Do not worry. I have already considered options 1, 2, and 3 that will yield the best results at the minimum cost.

    <i>Already?</i>

    For your dream, Yooil, I will continue to give my all.

    Dream That was a word he hadn''t used since elementary school.

    At a loss for words, Yooil simply gulped down the orange juice he didn''t need.

    * * *

    "Wow."

    Yooil, sprawled on the floor, let out an exmation. He couldn''t move a single finger.

    Brion''smitment to give his all was evidently sincere. Yooil had to practice beyond the intensity he had ever experienced before.

    Well done, Yooil. There are 30 more sessions to go.

    "What?"

    Please get up.

    "Can''t you do something like recovering stamina? In movies, nanobots do cell regeneration and stuff like that."

    I am sorry. Brion Dictionary cannot physically affect the real body. However, it is possible to help the brain enter a state of alertness for a certain period.

    ""

    Yooil closed his eyes in resignation.

    Brion, true to its artificial intelligence, was well-versed in a variety of training methods. New drills were added to the vocal and movement exercises that he had been doing since preparing for the theater audition, including practices specifically for camera acting.

    As you know, Yooil, stage acting and camera acting are fundamentally different. They require different energy, volume, and even movements.

    That was true. Even the quick thinking and improvisation required in front of a camera were different from those needed on stage.

    Yooil realized that moving in front of a camera was not as easy as he thought when he took his first professional profile photo.

    The studio rmended by Brion was very close to the convenience store where Yooil worked. The building itself was quite old, with narrow, dusty stairs leading down to it.

    Despite its nearly dpidated exterior, the interior of the photo studio was cleaner than expected. Moreover, the owner was an alumnus of the Film Department at Wolmyeong University.

    Oh, are you here for a profile shoot? I thought there was something different about you.

    The owner, a man in his early 40s wearing a shirt covered in flower and grass patterns, said with a bright smile.

    How did you know toe here? I give a big discount to my juniors. I''ve helped many debut with the profiles I''ve shot~ By the way, do you know this person?

    He said so, pointing at various profile photos on the wall. And it wasn''t a lieYooil recognized some familiar faces among the photos, including some quite famous celebrities.

    As Yooil looked around the wall in amazement, the owner got even more enthusiastic and took far more photos than nned.

    Be more natural!

    Smile beautifully! No, not sinisterly, beautifully!

    Shall we show a bit of our charm?

    However, for Yooil, taking solo photos for the first time, the relentless shooting sessionsting over two hours was no easy task. Towards the end, even standing still was enough to cause his lips to twitch.

    Hmm, the results are quite good, considering how tough it seemed for you. I''ll send them all to you by tonight.

    Han Yooil managed to thank the owner before leaving the studio. Brion, which had been quiet during the photo session, spoke up as soon as they stepped outside.

    It seems we need to pay more attention to camera acting.

    ""

    Yooil couldn''t deny it.

    And that was exactly why emotional training and concentration exercises in front of the camera were added to the acting practice sessions.

    Yooil, lying down with his eyes closed, heard the voice in his head again.

    Let''s start again, Yooil. Please get up and prepare.

    "Ah."

    Yooil looked down at his exhausted body.

    "I just want to lose consciousness."

    That won''t happen. You, Yooil, will not lose consciousness.

    ""

    This time, let''s assume a situation where you are confessed to by someone you hate. First, act it out exaggeratedly, using all the muscles in your face.

    "Ha, this is really tough."

    Please get up quickly.

    ""

    In 30 seconds, the device connected to your cerebral cortex will explode. If the device explodes

    Yooil muttered curses as he forced himself up.

    It was time to practice again.

    * * *

    "Why?"

    The staff member slowly put down the phone after the call ended, bringing a tense atmosphere to thepact meeting room.

    "What? What did they say?"

    In response to the urgent question, the staff member shook their head slightly.

    "So, they''re not avable either?"

    "Yes Their schedule is packed until next year."

    At the staff''s words, Director Yoo let out a sigh with a gloomy face.

    "It''s a pity. That actor fit the image well."

    He was in the midst of casting actors for his film, a project that had been in preparation for quite a long time despite financial difficulties in production. The amount of passion he had poured in from the nning stage was immense.

    However, all the prominent actors he had approached for casting were either fully booked or had declined the offer.

    These are people who have already made it inmercial feature films''

    Even though Director Yoo was famous in the animation industry, this was his debut in films, so it wasn''t iprehensible that actors would be cautious about a risky'' challenge. Still, it was frustrating.

    "Director, we''re still in touch with the agencies, and we have an audition scheduled for next week, so let''s wait a bit longer."

    "Okay."

    As Director Yoo nodded with a sigh, his phone rang. It was Kim Mijin, the writer of this film.

    "Hey, Writer Kim, what''s up?"

    Director~ Can you check your email right now~?

    "Yes, I can, but what''s the matter?"

    Just check it quickly! We''ll talk after you see it.

    The call ended abruptly. Holding his silent phone for a few seconds, Director Yoo essed his mailbox on hisptop.

    "A profile?"

    Apparently, Writer Kim had found a new actor. Director Yoo clicked on the attachment without much expectation.

    "Han Yooil?"

    That''s an unusual name. No significant filmography to speak of. Student theater is the entirety of his acting experience

    As Director Yoo muttered to himself, his gaze drifted to the department section.

    "What? Korean Literature?"

    Just some kid with a unique character. He quietly adjusted his thoughts and examined the photos.

    However, as he closely observed Yooil''s face in the photos, his expression subtly changed.

    He promptly called Kim Mijin again. Mijin answered the phone almost immediately after two rings.

    "Is this kid someone you know, Writer Kim?"

    He''s my junior~ I asked for his profile after seeing him act in a y~

    "Invite this guy to the audition."

    I already did~

    "What? Already?"

    Of course~ You know I have an eye for talent~ How about it, isn''t the image good?

    Director Yoo made a tsk sound.

    "The image is indeed good."

    However, as important as the image was how he acted. Even though Kim Mijin had seen him act on stage, camera acting was a different matter. It wasn''t umon for seasoned theater actors to struggle with acting for different mediums.

    "Don''t get your hopes up too high, just tell him toe."

    Yes, yes~

    Kim Mijin cheerfully ended the call. While Director Yoo was on the phone, the production team was already passing around Yooil''s profile.

    "Oh, this guy has a good vibe, doesn''t he?"

    "Especially when he''s expressionless, he has a great atmosphere."

    The assistant director pointed out a photo of Yooil with a neutral expression among the various frontal and side photos with different expressions.

    In the film directed by Yoo Jaeho, characters of various ages with their own stories were to appear. Among them, the most effort was being put into finding an actor for the role of a ''20-something male, frustrated with job-seeking failures and filled with a sense of inferiority''. It might sound simple, but finding the right actor for this central character was challenging for the director.

    The production team members murmured as they looked through the photos.

    "He looks cool, yet there''s a certain sadness about him. I like this guy."

    "But it''s a pity he doesn''t have any filmography."

    "That''s right. He seems perfect just by the image!"

    "Ugh, acting is more important than the image, acting."

    Director Yoo stretched and muttered to himself.

    "Let''s have a proper look next week Ah, my back."

    And he gave Yooil''s profile onest nce.

    <i>Wonder if he can even deliver his lines properly at the audition.''</i>

    However, Director Yoo would only realize the following week.

    All his worries had been for nothing.

 Chapter 7:

    Chapter 7:

    Heart rate slightly elevated. Body temperature normal. Oxygen saturation normal. You''re in a state of tension but rtively stable. Shall I set it to Do Not Disturb mode''?

    "Yeah."

    Yooil felt a pleasantly nervous tension as he sat in the waiting room. After waiting for about ten minutes, a staff member approached and called his name.

    "You''re Han Yooil, the actor who applied for <The Last Diner>, right? Yes, please follow me this way."

    Yooil followed the staff to the audition room. As he turned the doorknob, four people seated at a long table came into view.

    The first person Yooil noticed was Kim Mijin. His senior, sitting at the far left, made a fighting'' gesture with a smile. Next to Kim Mijin was Director Yoo Jaeho, with the assistant director and the cinematographer also seated beside him.

    "Hello, I am Han Yooil."

    "Nice to meet you~"

    "You must be tired froming here early in the morning."

    Even as the friendly greetings were exchanged, Director Yoo Jaeho in the center was looking at Han Yooil with an indifferent face.

    "Yes, Mr. Yooil. You''ve checked the designated lines we sent you, right?"

    "Yes, I''ve checked them."

    Han Yooil responded with a faint smile to the assistant director''s words.

    He had stayed up all night because of those very lines.

    "Good. Let''s get started quickly."

    "Please speak up when you''re ready!"

    "Understood."

    Yooil closed his eyes briefly and took a light breath.

    Meanwhile, the assistant director was slightly impressed by Yooil''s appearance. The mask looked good, and even though he was only wearing jeans and a white shirt, there was a peculiarly fashionable aura about him.

    <i>He''s taller than I thought. I expected him to add a few centimeters to his height. 185 seems about right?''</i>

    The problem was that Yooil looked more gentle and proper than expected.

    <i>Being neatly handsome is an advantage for an actor, but I wonder if he fits our project.''</i>

    As the assistant director looked at Yooil with a half-convinced face, Yooil opened his eyes.

    "I''m ready."

    "Ahem, then we''ll start."

    The assistant director cleared his throat and recited his first line.

    "You. Tell me properly. Why did you try to kill Sohee?"

    The assistant director, with no talent for acting, delivered the lines as if reading a book. However, Yooil''s face transformed instantly upon hearing the stiff dialogue.

    No, it wasn''t just his face.

    His entire body was transforming.

    His shoulders shrunk, his legs trembled uncontrobly, and his hands clenched and unclenched as if he didn''t know what to do, turning white.

    Then, in the next moment, Yooil narrowed his brows and began tough hee-hee.

    "Ah Mister~! Why, why would I try to kill Sohee Noona, huh?"

    Although he spoke whileughing, every muscle in his body was tense with nervousness. The smile on his lips seemed ready to spasm at any moment.

    <i>!''</i>

    Suddenly, a pitiful and pathetic man stood before them. The atmosphere had changed so quickly. The assistant director tried to hide his surprise and delivered the next line.

    "You said you needed money. The reason you came here in the first ce. The reason you even tried to die. It was all because of money, wasn''t it?"

    Then Yooil gave a pitiful smile. Despite his tall stature, he seemed to shrink even more.

    Even though they had seen Yooil when he first entered, now he seemed to have always been a small person from the start.

    "I''m not that bad of a guy, you know. Among my friends, I''m known to be quite reliable That''s true. Please, believe me a little."

    "How can I believe you? Based on what?"

    Yooil''s emotions subtly shifted with each line he heard.

    His neatly shaped eyebrows suddenly shot up and then descended. A light sigh escaped from his slightly parted lips.

    "Ha."

    Now, as if unable to contain his frustration, he began to pace around the room. He moved with a contemtive face, then suddenly stopped dead in his tracks.

    At that moment, Yooil''s expression changed ever so slightly.

    <i>!''</i>

    The assistant director''s mouth hung open in astonishment.

    Now, a bit of confidenceor rather, arrogancefilled Yooil''s eyes.

    He slightly lifted his chin and looked at the people before him, then stomped his foot down forcefully.

    As if realizing something, he moved his index finger through the air.

    The assistant director''s gaze involuntarily followed Yooil''s hand movement.

    "I see now I finally understand."

    Now, Yooil was smiling.

    The assistant director, who had been lost in the performance, btedly realized it was his turn to speak. He read his line with a trembling voice.

    "What, what do you think you understand?"

    "What else? I understand why you suspect me."

    Step by step, he approached.

    His eyes sparkled. A glint different from vitality or spirit.

    "You did it, didn''t you? That thing?"

    This was madness.

    The assistant director clenched his fists. Sweat had already started to seep from his hands.

    "Mister."

    Yooil leaned in closer.

    "Why did you try to kill Sohee Noona?"

    And asked.

    With a tone that seemed genuinely curious.

    But with eyes that were anything but sane.

    "That will be all."

    Hup.

    The sound of the assistant director''s hup reverberated through the room. He quickly gulped down water.

    "Are you, are you okay?"

    "Fine Hup! I''m fine. You did Hup! Well, you did well."

    Having finally calmed down and swallowed his water, the assistant director sat next to Director Yoo, who was still staring sternly at Han Yooil.

    In front of him stood Yooil, his expression no different from when he first entered the room.

    "Tha Yes. We will contact you soon. Thank you for your effort."

    At the assistant director''s words, Han Yooil bowed politely.

    "Yes, thank you. I will take my leave now."

    As the door closed, silence filled the room.

    ""

    Kim Mijin, finally regaining herposure, shook her head and muttered something quickly. It sounded like cursing. Next to her, Director Yoo sat with his expression still rigid.

    "That guy is from the Department of Korean Literature?"

    Director Yoo let out a chuckle of disbelief.

    When he first received the profile, he thought Yooil was just a decent-looking neer, a novice who had just started acting. He tapped the profile of the young man who hadpletely defied his expectations with a pen.

    "What an absurd thing hase rolling in."

    * * *

    Even after the audition was over, Yooil, who couldn''t resist Brion''s threats and had to finish his acting practice, heard a familiar voice as soon as he returned home.

    "Are you just getting back now?"

    He looked at the woman, smiling brightly despite the tiredness evident on his face.

    Jin Hayoung.

    She had worked at a university hospital for a long time and had been teaching at a nearby nursing academy for the past few years.

    "Are you eating properly? You seem to have lost more weight."

    "Oh, not at all."

    Jin Hayoung chuckled softly and patted Yooil''s shoulder.

    "Isn''t it hard, juggling part-time work and studying?"

    "It''s alright. I can manage."

    "You say that all the time, how can I believe you?"

    "Really, it''s true."

    Jin Hayoung looked at Han Yooil carefully.

    "You''ve really grown up now."

    Watching Yooil''s face had been one of Jin Hayoung''s long-standing habits. Han Yooil was the most precious legacy left behind by her sister.

    Jin Hayoung soothed her sorrow by looking at the eyes and nose that resembled her sister''s and the long fingers. And the same was true for Yooil. Both Han Yooil and Jin Hayoung tried hard to find traces of Jin Soyoung in each other.

    "Aren''t you working too much, auntie? Your face looks really tired."

    "What? Are you saying I look old now?"

    Jin Hayoungughed and yfully hit Han Yooil. However, Yooil''s expression remained serious.

    Jin Hayoung had always casually said she had no intention of getting married and that there was no one she liked. But Yooil knew that it was because of him since he was very young.

    That''s why he had tried to quietly study and find a stable life as quickly as possible. Yooil wanted to give his aunt the freedom to move on from him.

    <i>Until a few months ago, I thought that path would be a civil servant.''</i>

    But for the first time he thought there might be another path.

    "Uh Auntie."

    "Hm?"

    "I started acting."

    "Acting? Like, the kind actors do?"

    "Yes. Um I recently participated in a y at school and it was quite fun."

    Jin Hayoung''s eyes widened.

    Acting. It was a surprising story for Jin Hayoung, who had only seen Yooil living as a calm, model student until now.

    "Oh my, why didn''t you tell me! I would have gone to see it."

    "It''s not that big of a deal. I''m just going to try it out until I graduate."

    Han Yooil spoke calmly, but Jin Hayoung soon realized. Her nephew was genuinely excited and looking forward to it.

    <i>I''ve never seen that expression before.''</i>

    Yooil had been talking about finding a stable job as quickly as possible to be independent'' even before entering middle school. Jin Hayoung''s heart still ached when she thought of Yooil, who looked at her with a face that was not age-appropriate.

    But the Yooil of today looked his age for the first time. The moment she saw his face, Jin Hayoung decided to support whatever Yooil wanted to pursue.

    <i>And our Yooil he is handsome indeed.''</i>

    With his naturally clear skin, deep-set double-lidded eyes, a high nose bridge, and tall stature, every feature harmonized perfectly. Not just because he was her nephew, Yooil was like a child who inherited only the best traits from his parents.

    Imagining Yooil''s acting career throughout the evening, Jin Hayoung even saw Actor Han Yooil'' in her dreams that night. In her dreams, her nephew was already a top star.

    Usually disturbed by sleep disorders, Jin Hayoung, for the first time in a long while, slept deeply and soundly.

    * * *

    [Writer Kim Mijin]

    The next morning, seeing the name on the screen, Yooil immediately answered the call.

    "Hello, Writer Kim. This is Han Yooil."

    Junior! No, Actor Yooil~!

    She hurriedly continued.

    Let''s work together, Yooil~!

    "Excuse me?"

    I want you for that role, Yooil.

    Kim Mijin muttered, If only I hadn''t beente yesterday, I would have called right away,'' and continued.

    Are you free tomorrow? Where we met No, wait! Where do you live, Yooil~? We wille somewhere close to you~!

    "Ah I''m free tomorrow except for my part-time work hours."

    Oh, you have a part-time job too? Where? Near the school~? Ah, great~ Then let''s meet at the Star Cafe near Wolmyeong University~!

    After quickly coordinating the time with Kim Mijin, Yooil stood for a few seconds, looking at the phone in his hand after the call ended.

    <i>Did I make it?''</i>

    Just like that?

    It didn''t feel real. Being in a movie was something he couldn''t have imagined just a few months ago. With a dazed face, Yooil, standing in front of the door, heard Brion quietly speak.

    I told you there''s no need to worry.

    -Actor Han, fighting!

    Yooil pocketed the note his aunt had left on the door. His steps felt much lighter than usual.

    .* * *

    And the next day.

    Han Yooil''s second audition was approaching.

 Chapter 8:

    Chapter 8:

    Yooil.

    "Ugh."

    Yooil! Wake up.

    Yooil slowly moved his body, which was slumped over the desk. He blinked his dry eyes and came to his senses.

    You shouldn''t be sleeping now. You have two midterms tomorrow at 10 AM and 1 PM, and in the evening, there''s the audition for the y <From the Ground>.

    "I know."

    Yooil murmured while pressing his temples. It was the result ofbining regr studies with systematic acting practice. Despite his bold reassurances to his aunt, the umting fatigue was inevitable.

    If you''re very tired, I can help you obtain a state of wakefulness.

    <i>A state of wakefulness?''</i>

    Right. Brion had mentioned that before.

    It couldn''t touch his physical stamina, but it could help him achieve a state of wakefulness for a certain period.

    <i>What exactly is this state of wakefulness?''</i>

    Brion Dictionary stimtes the neural cells in the brain, increasing the secretion of neurotransmitters like serotonin, thereby causing a short-term state of wakefulness.

    Maybe I should try it.

    As soon as Yooil thought this casually, Brion promptly replied.

    Yes. Starting immediately.

    "Wha What?"

    In that instant, it felt like cold water was sweeping from Yooil''s head to his toes. That sensation made him shiver for a moment, and then all the fatigue vanished, leaving his mind feeling clear and alert.

    "!"

    Yooil looked at himself in the mirror with a refreshed expression.

    His eyes, half-closed just moments ago, were now vividly shining.

    The wakefulness effect can be used only once a day to ensure it does not strain your health.

    So this is why people use drugs.

    The wakefulness effect of Brion Dictionary is not a drug''. Serotonin is a monoamine neurotransmitter that ys a role in regting human emotions, mood, and sleep

    Yooil half-listened to Brion''s voice while looking back at the textbooks in front of him.

    Thinking that he should asionally make use of this wakefulness effect when needed.

    * * *

    The next station is Hyehwa, Hyehwa Station. The doors will open on the left side.

    Thanks to the wakefulness effect he tried the day before, Yooil managed to get through his exams smoothly. Now he was on his way to Hyehwa for a theater audition.

    Yooil, you should exit through Gate 1.

    <i>Got it.''</i>

    Yooil followed Brion''s guidance and got off at Hyehwa Station Gate 1. With Brion''s knowledge of So Yijin''s sent location, there was no need to check the map.

    So Yijin''s uing work, <From the Ground>, was supported by the A Cultural Foundation. Hence, the building with the rehearsal room was quite neat. Yooil, who entered the rehearsal room, immediately spotted So Yijin. So Yijin, with her distinctive short hippie perm and round sses, called out cheerfully upon seeing Han Yooil.

    "Oh, Yooil, you''re here!"

    At her words, someone sitting huddled beside So Yijin lifted their face abruptly. It was a woman with a tired face and a navy blue beanie.

    <i>She must be the director.''</i>

    "Ah, you''re Yooil, right? I''ve heard a lot about you from Writer Yijin. I''m Seo Mihee."

    When Yooil greeted her, Seo Mihee extended her hand with a weing expression.

    "Thank you for inviting me."

    "Do you roughly know what our y is about?"

    "Yes, Writer So exined it to me. I remember it being an intriguing story."

    "Oh, really?"

    So Yijin''s uing work was a drama featuring a listless vampire and a child as the main characters. The story revolved around two characters trapped under the rubble of a copsed building, growing closer through their conversations.

    "You remember well?"

    Pleased by Yooil''s response, Seo Mihee nodded in satisfaction. So Yijin added with a bright face that she was now in the final editing process. Thus, the audition seemed to start in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

    Seo Mihee said with a smile,

    "Writer Leejin kept praising you, Yooil, I was very curious. I hope you''re not feeling too nervous because I said that?"

    "Not at all."

    Despite her cheerful demeanor, Seo Mihee wasn''t very optimistic.

    <i>So Yijin is really something. Bringing in a guy who''s not even from the acting department''</i>

    Honestly, Seo Mihee thought So Yijin was biased by the junior filter''. She understood the feeling of wanting to look after and give extra attention to juniors from the same department. But even so, to invite a newbie who just put up one show for an audition

    Moreover, she already had a few actors in mind for the roles.

    Especially for the vampire role, she had been considering Jung Suho'', contacting him for the past few days. He was an actor who had graduated from the National University of Arts and had been active in the theater for four years, recently starting to be called the idol of the theater world''.

    Seo Mihee sipped her water, casting a cursory nce at Yooil.

    <i>Well, he''s cleanly handsome.''</i>

    Yooil was dressed in a wide gray sweatshirt and ck cks. The outfit was simple, but maybe because of his height and proportions, he exuded a model-like aura. His appearance was certainly striking.

    Sitting beside her, So Yijin handed Yooil a short script with a smile.

    "It''s the lines for the Boy''. Take your time, don''t feel pressured."

    The short script given by So Yijin contained the first encounter between the boy and the vampire.

    It was a conversation that took ce right after the building copsed, miraculously surviving the debris.

    Yooil scanned the lines with a serious face for a while. So Yijin watched him with sparkling eyes.

    Meanwhile, Seo Mihee looked at Yooil, first as he cleared his throat, then as he squatted down after putting the script down, with an indifferent gaze.

    Until Yooil began to speak.

    The boy, squatting, hugs his legs tightly. Then, he rubs his arms, as if trying to somehow warm his cold body.

    But it seems insufficient as he starts shivering more and more.

    "It''s c-cold"

    The boy, hugging his legs and trembling, looks around. Then, as if he spots someone, he frowns. Struggling to move among the debris, the boy notices a lying figure.

    The boy''s eyes widen.

    "Mister are you hurt?"

    Yooil''s clear eyes are tinged with concern. He takes a step closer.

    Along with him, the smile fades from Seo Mihee''s face.

    <i>What''s this, his voice is''</i>

    The voiceing from Yooil was that of a clear, innocent boy. Yooil''s expression and posture were the same.

    Even though she knew he was the tall man over 180 cm who had shaken hands with her, Seo Mihee felt as if he was a much younger child.

    The child coughs a little, choked by the dust rising from the debris, and then continues speaking.

    "Can you talk? Where does it hurt?"

    The indifferent vampire doesn''t respond to the child''s questions.

    But undeterred, the boy moves closer.

    "You''re alive, right? I saw you move I''m sure I did"

    At that moment, the vampire speaks.

    <i>!''</i>

    Hearing his voice, the boy''s eyes twinkle once again.

    Relief and the joy of not being alone reflect in his eyes.

    "You''re alive! That''s really, really good I was worried that you might be dead."

    The child speaks calmly. However, contrary to theposed words, his body is trembling.

    The look in the boy''s eyes changes ever so slightly.

    "It''s too cold and dark here That''s why I was worried."

    Sadness and resignation mix with the relief and joy in the child''s eyes.

    He forces a smile, his eyes brimming with tears.

    Seo Mihee, who had been watching Yooil absentmindedly, slightly parted her lips.

    <i>Could it be?''</i>

    Seo Mihee urgently spoke up.

    "Yooil."

    She had to ask.

    "What''s that emotion? What were you thinking while acting that way?"

    Yooil, whose eyes were brimming with tears, wiped them away and cleared his throat before speaking.

    "The child I thought he knew everything."

    "Knew what?"

    "That he might die here."

    <i>Impossible.''</i>

    How could he interpret it like that from just a few impromptu lines?

    Without even seeing the script from beginning to end?

    Seo Mihee suppressed the urge to burst out with words and asked,

    "Why?"

    "From the beginning, I thought the main character was a lonely child. Trapped alone in this huge building, without any friends or family."

    Han Yooil paused for a moment and then continued.

    "And this is just my thought, but I felt the main character is a perceptive child."

    "Why did you think that?"

    Yooil answered calmly.

    "Lonely children often grow up early."

    "!"

    Speechless, So Yijin, who had been admiring Yooil''s performance, raised her eyebrows at his response.

    Just now, Han Yooil perfectly captured the emotional journey of the child'' that So Yijin had envisioned as the writer. As if he had entered her mind ande back out.

    To think all that and act it out in that short moment.

    Stunned and mouth agape, Seo Mihee, sitting beside So Yijin, handed Yooil another piece of paper.

    "Do you want to try these lines too?"

    Yooil was a bit surprised as he received the paper.

    <i>I didn''t expect to be given this script right away.''</i>

    The paper he received was for the boy''s counterpart, the Vampire''s lines.

    But Yooil, who had been rigorously trained under Brion, calcting all possible scenarios and practicing, wasn''t too flustered and took in the lines. Quickly memorizing them, he immediately started acting.

    This time, he neither squatted nor trembled.

    He simplyy sprawled out, rxing his entire body.

    <i>Has it started?''</i>

    So Yijin watched him with anticipation. The main character of the drama, the vampire, was someone who didn''t want to do anything, a vampire struck with lethargy and burnout.

    That made her all the more curious.

    <i>How did he interpret this?''</i>

    And Yooil remained sprawled out on the floor. The only difference from the script was that Yooil seemed about to fall asleep, his eyes closed.

    <i>!''</i>

    Seo Mihee leaned forward.

    The vampire before her eyes looked very annoyed. He seemed bothered by unwanted noise, his eyshes fluttering slightly. The corners of his mouth also twitched subtly.

    And then, in the next moment, the vampire''s lips parted.

    "Hey, kid. Keep it down."

    !''

    It was a different voice than when he acted as the Boy''. Yooil''s voice was now very dry and rough.

    If the Boy'' was the embodiment of fragility and youth, the Vampire'' now was dangerous. Even while lying down, he emitted an aura that warned others not toe too close.

    Like a predator just awakened from its slumber.

    So Yijin held her breath and focused. The smooth forehead of the Vampire'' before her was bing increasingly furrowed.

    "You''re asking if I''m alive."

    The vampire slightly opened his eyes. The look in them was very peculiar.

    It seemed irritated and bothered, yet amidst that, there was a hint of curiosity.

    "Alive, yes. In some sense, I am alive."

    His gravelly voice resonated through the air. It was as if the throat hadn''t been used for a long time, the voice deep and confined.

    "Worry about me''?"

    He slowly moved his neck.

    "What are you, exactly?"

    His gaze followed the movement.

    Like a well-crafted robot in motion, or a predator stepping towards its prey. Either way, it was a movement not quite human.

    His head tilted to the left.

    "What are you to worry about me?"

    Seo Mihee couldn''t take her eyes off him.

    It was an unusual emotional line. He wasn''t angry, nor particrly curious about the boy''s heart. It was simply iprehensible'' to him why a child would worry about him.

    After all, there had never been anything human-like in this otherworldly being.

    Seo Mihee let out a chuckle without realizing it.

    <i>How did he catch that?''</i>

    Yooil had captured the essence of the vampire''s character  a creature detached from human emotions, puzzled by the concern shown by a human child. His performance revealed an understanding of the role that went beyond the words on the script, bringing a depth to the character that resonated even with the skeptical Seo Mihee.

 Chapter 9:

    Chapter 9:

    After sending Yooil away, So Yijin and Seo Mihee found themselves in a deep dilemma.

    "Writer So, you said Han Yooil is your junior, right?"

    "Yes"

    "He''s really good at acting, genuinely."

    "I I know"

    So Yijin answered with a dumbfounded expression. She, too, was not left untouched by the impact of the audition.

    "Director from what I see, both the boy and the vampire roles seem perfect for Yooil what should we do?"

    "Huh."

    Seo Mihee shook her head as if it was absurd, but not because she disagreed.

    <i>I never thought I''d be in such a dilemma.''</i>

    Initially, Seo Mihee didn''t expect actors to grasp the emotional line of the y in one or two meetings. She intended to give them about a week to continuously discuss and shape their characters.

    But Han Yooil was different. He understood every emotional line with just a few lines of dialogue. It was as if he was reading her mind.

    It was the first time she felt this way watching someone''s performance. And in an audition room, no less!

    "I was going to cast Suho for the vampire role."

    "What if we cast Jung Suho as the vampire and Yooil as the boy''?"

    Seo Mihee furrowed her brows.

    <i>That''s also a pity.''</i>

    Yooil''s portrayal of both the boy and the vampire was tempting. She wished she could use a cloning technique if possible.

    Then, as So Yijin was pulling at her hair, she suddenly spoke up.

    "Director, I just had an idea Ah, no."

    "Why? Tell me."

    "No, it seems too out there."

    "Just say it already."

    Urged by Seo Mihee, So Yijin slowly began to talk. And hearing her words, Seo Mihee looked at her writer with a peculiar expression.

    "That''s a good idea!"

    *

    Having sessfullypleted the audition, Yooil finished a major assignment at home. nning for an early night''s sleep, he was jolted awake by So Yijin''s call.

    More surprising than thete call was the content.

    "Excuse me?"

    What do you think, Yooil? Can you do it?

    "I I think I haven''t quite grasped it yet. Could you exin it once more?"

    Hearing Han Yooil''s words, So Yijin replied in a gentle voice.

    That is you and Jung Suho would perform both roles together. You two would take turns ying the boy'' and the vampire.''

    "!"

    Brion quietly interjected at that moment.

    A unique form of double casting.

    How about it, is it okay with you?

    A faint smile appeared on Yooil''s lips.

    "Yes. I would like to take on the challenge."

    Great! Hehe, I just spoke with Jung Suho, and he seemed intrigued!

    Jung Suho. A 27-year-old male actor. Known for his distinct features and decent acting skills, he''s one of the popr actors among theater fans. His recent works over thest three years include

    Brion seemed to have been waiting to recite Jung Suho''s filmography. Yooil had to tightly close his eyes to concentrate on the phone call.

    Then, I''ll call you backter. See you then!

    Yes. Thank you, writer.

    The y Friend of a Mad Scientist'', the musical Moon and I''

    <i>Stop.''</i>

    Yooily back on his bed, feeling a mix of emotions.

    The deration to participate in both productions was half bravado.

    <i>But it really is happening.''</i>

    Congrattions, Yooil. You will start theater practice from the final exam period, followed by movie filming after the semester ends, then preparing for the y

    Han Yooil, while half-listening to Brion''s voice, slowly drifted off to sleep.

    The next morning, feeling refreshed, Yooil arrived at school and immediately received a call from Kim Jinwoo. Ever since seeing the theater club''s performance, Kim Jinwoo''s eyes would sparkle whenever he saw Han Yooil. He jokingly warned not to pretend not to know him when he bes famous.

    Indeed, he was a colleague who was as good at socializing as he was at making frivolous remarks.

    "Hey, over here!"

    Yooil approached Kim Jinwoo, who was waving from a corner of the school caf. Their conversation, starting withints about assignments, naturally shifted to ns after the vacation.

    Seamlessly, Yooil mentioned his involvement in the movie and y, and Kim Jinwoo''s eyes sparkled with curiosity.

    "What?! Whose work is it?"

    Writer So Yijin and Writer Kim Mijin.

    Kim Jinwoo''s jaw dropped in amazement.

    "Wow, those seniors are really famous. They''re the Two Jins,'' you know!"

    "''Two Jins''?"

    ording to Kim Jinwoo, So Yijin and Kim Mijin were quite famous seniors, often mentioned in their department even after graduation.

    "Wow! Both won contests before graduating, and there are always banners hanging in front of the building, and it''s famous that they used to write together in the department room but fought! Our seniors told us when we were freshmen!"

    <i>Famous for everything, huh.''</i>

    Observing Han Yooil''s expression, Kim Jinwoo squinted at him.

    Han Yooil, are you really a Korean Literature major?

    Instead of answering, Yooil just shrugged and sipped his coffee. Watching him, Kim Jinwoo slumped over the table.

    "Ahh, I want to be famous too~"

    "What would you do if you became famous?"

    "Ah, I''ll think about that once I be famous."

    Kim Jinwoo chuckled with his cheek squished against the table.

    "Honestly, if I had the talent, Id want to be an actor or a writer. But I dont think I have that talent So I''m thinking of changing my career path to nning or management, building a career, starting apany, and making it big."

    Thats interesting.

    What?''

    Never mind.

    While Kim Jinwoo was indulging in his fantasies, he casually checked the time and suddenly stood up.

    "Yikes! Hey, we''re going to bete! Only 1 minute left!"

    And Han Yooil and Kim Jinwoo managed to sprint into the lecture room within just one minute.

    * * *

    One day in November, a man entered a meeting room on the 2nd floor of the A Cultural Foundation building. He had noticeably double-lidded eyes and full lips.

    "Oh, Jung Suho!"

    You''re early, actor.

    Jung Suho bowed to the staff members who greeted him.

    "I feel like I have so much to learn. It''s only right toe early."

    "Oh, don''t be silly!"

    "Please, don''t say that!"

    The staff, noticing his humility, waved their hands dismissively. Jung Suho offered a kind smile in response and took a seat.

    Although he smiled amiably, in reality, he was quite bruised in pride. This was the first time he had received such a casting format. He had agreed to it because he liked the work, but that didn''t alleviate his irritation.

    <i>A vampire role that''s perfect for me And now, a sudden double casting?''</i>

    No, it wasn''t just any double casting. They were supposed to alternate roles. He would have declined without a second thought if he had only slightly disliked the project.

    Moreover, the words added by Seo Mihee lingered in his mind.

    The actor you''ll be performing with is a neer, but they have exceptional energy. They really! Truly! act well. Ah, of course, Suho, you''re a great actor too

    After saying that, Seo Mihee chuckled, mentioning that since they were of simr ages, they could create good synergy and then ended the call.

    <i>Acts "really, truly" well.''</i>

    <i>It must be something extraordinary.''</i>

    Jung Suho''s lips curled up at one corner. He would find out soon enough whether those words were an exaggeration or not.

    <i>I''m curious to see which it is.''</i>

    Jung Suho leaned back in his chair with that thought when a staff member, checking their phone, spoke up.

    "The director and writer will be here soon."

    "Ah, Han Yooil will also arrive shortly!"

    Jung Suho waited for Yooil with a polite smile on his face. Soon the door opened, and a young man with a pale face entered.

    <i>That guy.''</i>

    He had a distinct appearance that would catch anyone''s eye anywhere.

    "Hello, I''m Han Yooil!"

    "Jung Suho."

    As Jung Suho shook Yooil''s hand, he continued,

    How old are you, if I may ask?

    I''m 21 years old.

    "Wow~ So young. I thought you''d be around my age since the director mentioned it."

    Han Yooil responded with a gentle smile to his words.

    "It''s an honor to be on stage with you. I will do my best."

    Jung Suho raised his eyebrows, impressed by Yooil''sposed demeanor.

    Just then, the door opened, and So Yijin and Seo Mihee entered. It was the first reading, and both were very excited.

    "We will have two readings. For the first reading, Yooil will y the boy, and Suho will y the vampire. In the second reading, we''ll switch roles."

    After saying that, Seo Mihee pped once, echoing through the conference room.

    "Alright, let''s start with the first reading!"

    Writer So Yijin began reading the stage directions.

    "Stage. A ruined building, beneath it a cold, dark space. asionally, debris crumbles, creating a menacing noise."

    With that voice, the first reading of From the Ground'' began.

    "Stage situation. A child crouches among the debris, shivering from the cold."

    As So Yijin recited, Yooil''s movements changed.

    Even Jung Suho, who had been reluctant, found himself widening his eyes when Yooil spoke his first line.

    "Mom"

    Han Yooil uttered just a single phrase.

    Jung Suho fixed his gaze on Han Yooil, who seemed genuinely cold, shivering slightly.

    Han Yooil breathed into his hands.

    "So, so cold"

    Jung Suho clicked his tongue.

    <i>What''s this, really?''</i>

    It was believable that he could have devoured a child.

    Yet, it didn''t feel like he was overdoing cuteness'' or pretending to be younger.''

    "Uh!"

    At that moment, the boy''s desperate gaze met Jung Suho''s.

    "Ah, mister are you hurt? Can you speak? Where does it hurt?"

    Looking at Han Yooil, who inspected him with worried eyes, Jung Suho mped his mouth shut.

    It was soon his turn.

    "Hey, you''re alive, right? I saw you moving Definitely saw it"

    "Hey, kid. Keep it down."

    Jung Suho spoke with an annoyed tone. Despite the unfriendly response, the boy remained cheerful.

    "I was worried that you might be dead."

    "Worried? About me''?"

    If Han Yooil''s vampire was devoid of all emotion, Jung Suho''s vampire had a twisted sense of humor.

    As they conversed, Seo Mihee''s face flushed with excitement.

    <i>This is a hit.''</i>

    The reading exceeded expectations.

    Seo Mihee asionally felt as if she was not in a conference room but on stage, thanks to their surprisingly good chemistry.

    Just then, Jung Suho smiled, revealing his teeth. It was a chilling smile, like that of a grim reaper.

    So Yijin also watched silently, spellbound.

    The characters she had written were more vivid in front of her than on paper. Han Yooil and Jung Suho were already performing beyond the scope of a mere reading.

    The boy spoke, with a calm andposed demeanor.

    "It''s too cold and dark here That''s why I was worried."

    "Is that so?"

    Now fully immersed, Jung Suho turned to meet Han Yooil''s gaze. He posed a question to this bold and irreverent boy, who imed to be worried about him.

    "What are you, to worry about me?"

    The boy looked at Jung Suho with clear eyes.

    The child slowly opened his mouth.

    "Anyone would be worried."

    "Why?"

    "Because you''re a person."

    Transparent and innocent eyes gazed at the immortal being, as if seeing right through him.

    "Mister you''re human,'' right?"

    Jung Suho hadn''t thought his acting wascking since he became an adult.

    He had never missed being the top at Korea''s most prestigious arts school, had been on stage since his student days, and had never heard anything but praise.

    But the moment he saw Han Yooil''s eyes, Jung Suho had to admit it.

    Really, he acted really, truly'' well.

    For the first time since his debut, Jung Suho felt a sense of crisis.

 Chapter 10:

    Chapter 10:

    A small pub near the school.

    Sitting at a corner table with his group, Yooil casually nced around at the noisy neighboring tables, packed with varsity jackets of various designs.

    Perhaps due to the semester''s end being just around the corner, everyone seemed to be in high spirits.

    "Han Yooil, did you do well on your finals?"

    At Kim Jinwoo''s question, Yooil nodded nonchntly.

    "Well, just so-so."

    ''Just so-so'' is not urate. Based on the midterm and final exam scores and assignment grades for each course, Han Yooil''s predicted GPA for this semester is 4.2, and the major GPA is

    While Yooil half-listened to Brion''s words, two people sitting opposite Han Yooil began to speak in turn.

    "Wow, I think it''s my first time eating with Han Yooil."

    "Me too."

    These two were Hwang Riu and Kang Hana.

    Both were ssmates who took the same major as Han Yooil this semester. They had greeted each other and interacted in passing, but never had a chance to meet separately.

    In fact, aside from group projects, Yooil had never been to a caf with schoolmates before.

    <i>I was worried it might be awkward but it''s actually quite alright.''</i>

    Kim Jinwoo had always been interested in theater and movies, and Hwang Riu and Kang Hana were so interested in writing that they took creative writing courses together. Sharing simr interests, their conversations were bound to be enjoyable.

    "Did you see the new film by Director Hwang Inhyo?"

    "Crazy, of course! I''ve seen it three times just in the cinema."

    "I even bought the script book."

    "Wow~ How can they make such a story from such a clich subject?"

    "I''m so jealous I wish I had that talent. I''m already worried about what I''ll do after graduation"

    "We agreed to write together."

    Hwang Riu, shrugging his shoulders, looked at Kim Jinwoo.

    "Hwang Hana and I are going to start a scriptwriting study group next month. Will you join?"

    "I''m about to join the military."

    "Ah."

    Kim Jinwoo took a sip of his beer with a suddenly gloomier expression.

    Trying to shift the focus, Kang Hana asked Yooil,

    "What about you? What are you going to do after you graduate?"

    "I," Han Yooil paused for a moment.

    After graduation what should I do?''

    Until just a few months ago, he would have said he was nning to prepare for the civil service exam But many things had changed since then.

    "Well, you can act. You''re doing a y and a movie this vacation."

    At the offhand remark by Kim Jinwoo, both Kang Hana and Hwang Riu''s eyes widened.

    "A movie?"

    "You''re doing a y and a movie?!"

    Seeing their reaction, Kim Jinwoo quickly became excited and started making a fuss.

    "Everyone, watch closely! The first actor from the Department of Korean Literature at Wolmyeong University!"

    "Wow, whose movie?"

    "Where''s the y?"

    "I''ve just been cast haven''t started shooting yet. The y starts early next year."

    "Awesome I mean, I saw your acting, it was good."

    "Really did well."

    "But that''s impressive. Shouldn''t we get your autograph in advance?"

    Hwang Riu seriously extended a napkin.

    "I want it right here."

    It was then that Yooil''s phone rang. Seeing the sender of the message, Han Yooil was a bit surprised.

    Senior Jung Suho: This is Han Yooil, right?

    Yes, that''s correct.

    The reply came within a few seconds.

    Senior Jung Suho: Are you busy this week?^^

    Senior Jung Suho: How about we meet up and talk for a bit?

    Yooil hadn''t expected Jung Suho to contact him directly after asking for his number following the reading.

    <i>Why does he want to meet?''</i>

    Despite his curiosity, Han Yooil''s hands began to rapidlypose a polite reply.

    "Jung Suho?"

    Kim Jinwoo, peering at Yooil''s phone, furrowed his brows.

    "Jung Suho? Why does that sound familiar?"

    Kang Hana murmured as she blinked.

    "The Jung Suho I know is a theater actor"

    "That''s him."

    At Han Yooil''s response, Kang Hana inhaled sharply.

    "Who is it?"

    "Riu. Remember the y we watchedst month?"

    "Yeah."

    "He was the lead actor in that y."

    "Ah."

    Kim Jinwoo''s narrow eyes suddenly widened.

    "Wait you mean, the y you''re doing is!"

    "Yeah, I''m doing it with Senior Jung Suho."

    As Kang Hana hastily searched something on the inte, she showed her phone, having found an article.

    Casting for the y From the Ground'' revealed Theater idol Jung Suho steps in

    Then, reading the article aloud, Kang Hana awkwardlymented,

    "What. Yooil''s part ends in just a line."

    "Isn''t this article released by Jung Suho''s agency?"

    "Ah! That''s why."

    While the friends were engrossed in the article, Brion spoke monotonously.

    The meeting ce with Mr. Jung Suho should be StarStar Caf in **-dong''.

    <i>Why No, okay.''</i>

    Yooil quietly sent a reply to the message, feeling a throbbing sensation in his head.

    * * *

    "What acting school do you go to?"

    At the darkest, most secluded spot of StarStar Caf.

    That was the first thing Jung Suho, wearing a ck cap, blurted out upon confirming Yooil''s face.

    "Excuse me?"

    "Ah, sit down first. Order some drinks."

    After Yooil ordered a drink and sat down, Jung Suho leaned forward.

    "Which acting school are you attending?"

    That''s an unexpected question.

    Yooil quietly agreed with Brion.

    "I don''t go to one."

    "Not even in the theater department, and you don''t attend an acting school either?"

    "Hmm, yes."

    "Really? You don''t have a teacher for lessons?"

    Of course, he did have a chip from the future embedded in his brain

    But saying so wouldn''t have been believable.

    "No, I don''t."

    "Then how did you do that acting? Those emotional lines Did you discuss it with the director?"

    "No. During the audition, the director asked me, so I just shared my thoughts on the character''s condition and emotions."

    <i>Really, that''s all?''</i>

    Jung Suho looked at Yooil with a skeptical gaze.

    Even after the reading session days ago, Jung Suho couldn''t easily fall asleep, Han Yooil''s lines echoing in his ears.

    Jung Suho''s reason for meeting Yooil today wasn''t anything grandiose. He simply wanted to find out who had taught Yooil to act.

    <i>But it''s all just natural talent?''</i>

    Jung Suho scrutinized Han Yooil, disbelief written on his face.

    He hadn''t noticed from a distance, but up close, Yooil''s features were undeniably handsome.

    Not overtly double-lidded eyes, butrge enough, with well-bnced facial features. Not a nd type devoid of character either. Above all, he was tall and proportionate.

    <i>Damn nothing to pick on. Annoyingly perfect.''</i>

    Wasn''t it unfair that someone with such looks and no formal grooming had natural acting talent too?

    "Yooil, you''ll continue to be an actor, right?"

    Yes, I will.

    Ignoring Brion''s voice, Han Yooil spoke.

    "I''m nning to think slowly about the path I''ll take in the future."

    "That, Yooil."

    "You can speakfortably, Senior."

    "Can I? Then I will."

    If Han Yooil truly was a genius who had pulled off that performance on his own

    Jung Suho''s eyes sparkled as he leaned in closer.

    "I have a good eye for people. And right from the start, I liked you."

    <i>?''</i>

    Puzzled, Yooil bowed his head.

    "Thank you."

    "I wanted to get to know you better, that''s why I asked to meet. If there''s anything you''re curious about or ufortable with, please tell me"

    Watching the bewildered expression on Han Yooil''s face, Jung Suho smiled slyly.

    "Call me hyung."

    He had a knack for judging people, especially actors'', with an exceptional sense. Even the agency president sought his advice. He knew well who would seed and who wouldn''t.

    This also influenced his self-awareness. He chose to focus on theater and musicals over drama and film supporting roles for this reason. Jung Suho knew he shone brightest on stage.

    And now, he realized that Han Yooil was an unscratched lottery ticket.

    <i>Let''s get along well, lottery ticket.''</i>

    Of course, Han Yooil waspletely unaware of his thoughts.

    * * *

    Finally, the semester ended at Wolmyeong University.

    But Yooil was as busy as during the semester, juggling theater practice, part-time jobs, and memorizing the movie script.

    And now, Han Yooil stood at the movie set.

    Although Yooil liked movies, it was his first time inside a film set. He watched the staff bustling around, their faces showing fatigue as they hurried to check microphones, cameras, and the movements of characters.

    A voice with a hint of experience came from behind Yooil.

    "Hello?"

    As Yooil turned, he saw a middle-aged actor with a kind face. His name was Park Joonki, an actor who asionally appeared in dramas as a supporting or minor role.

    "Hello, nice to meet you for the first time."

    "You''re ying Yooil,'' right?"

    With deepughter lines, he extended his hand.

    In this movie, what was unique was that the actors'' real names, excluding their surnames, were used directly for their roles.

    "Yes, I''m Han Yooil."

    "Nice to meet you, I''m Park Joonki~"

    With a rxed smile and a handshake, Park Joonki''s eyes briefly darted to the script in Han Yooil''s hand and he couldn''t help butment.

    "Goodness, that script is"

    Yooil''s script was tattered. The cover, with the title of the work, was barely hanging on.

    "I''m not so good at memorizing, you see."

    Yooil replied with an embarrassed smile. As Park Joonki was pouring out hispliments, the assistant director approached.

    "Could the actors please gather here for a moment?"

    Beside the assistant director were two actors who had just arrived, both looking younger than their age.

    "Nice to meet you. I''m Min Sohee."

    "And I''m Lee Jongsun."

    The actors involved in this movie were all long-standing in the industry, but none had been in leading roles before.

    After brief introductions, the assistant director began to exin the shooting schedule and movements to the four actors.

    The Last Diner'' was a movie that began with people who met in a suicidemunity deciding to visit each other''s bucket list restaurants onest time.

    The scene to be shot today was the day the characters, who met in the suicidemunity, visited the first restaurant.

    Ideally, the shooting should have started with the characters meeting offline for the first time after meeting in themunity, but due to issues like venue reservations, they often had to shoot out of sequence.

    Today''s shooting was like that too. Although it was their first time facing each other, they had to enter the shooting as if they had already spent a day together.

    But Yooil was confident.

    It was thanks to the grueling training with the AI that had tortured him in every possible way.

    Switching to Do Not Disturb'' mode.

    "Then, let''s start the shooting!"

    Soon, a red light came on the camera.

    Even Director Yoo Jaeho, focusing on the monitor, seemed intrigued.

    <i>Just do as you did in the audition, that would be great.''</i>

    And it wasn''t long before Yoo Jaeho could clearly see with his own eyes that his choice was not mistaken.

 Chapter 11:

    Chapter 11:

    The Last Diner (1)

    [#S. 21 Hotel Restaurant (Day)

    Joonki, Yooil, Sohee, and Jongsun enter a luxurious restaurant. The four, with awkward expressions, head to their seats.]

    Director Yoo Jaeho looked at the script and then forward as all preparations wereplete.

    "Standby! Sound!"

    "Speed."

    "Camera!"

    "Roll!"

    After responses from the sound and camera directors,

    "Scene 21, Take 1!"

    Then the sound of the te being pped was heard.

    "Action!"

    Yoo Jaeho now fixed his gaze on the monitor.

    It was also his first time shooting with actual actors instead of animation, so he was quite nervous. He took a shallow breath and focused on the monitor.

    Soon, the monitor showed individuals of various ages, too awkward to be family and too diverse to be friends, entering the hotel restaurant.

    An antique yet tidy luxury Chinese restaurant. It was an early weekday evening, so it wasn''t very crowded.

    The first thing seen was the displeased faces of Joonki and Yooil. Following them, Jongsun entered expressionless.

    Sohee, the first to enter, was making exaggerated gestures but also keenly observing the others.

    "Aww, so fancy and noisy!"

    Joonki grumbled as he sat down.

    "A hotel restaurant, not even a buffet"

    "Why? I wanted this to be myst meal. Everyone agreed to go wherever, right?"

    "Have you even eaten here before?"

    "What do you take me for? Back in my heydays, ces like this were routine for me."

    Sohee snorted and took her seat. Compared to the shabby clothes of the others, Sohee''s shy dress seemed to match the restaurant well.

    "If you don''t like it that much, leave! It''s my treat anyway. I save money and that''s good for me."

    Right.

    The cost of visiting each person''s favorite restaurant was to be borne by the person who suggested it. After all, when you''ve decided to end it all, money doesn''t matter.

    "How much is the dinner course here?"

    "150,000 won."

    "Wow, big spender, sis."

    Squeak.

    Yooil noisily drags his chair and sits askew, his lip corner raised.

    "Sohee noona, did you get divorced because you always ate at ces like this?"

    <i>!''</i>

    Yoo Jaeho, watching the monitor, flinched involuntarily at Yooil''s casually tossed remark.

    The assistant director felt the same.

    <i>That polite actor from earlier is this guy?''</i>

    He had felt it during the audition, but the atmosphere had changed so drastically, it was as if he had swapped faces.

    "Hey. What did you just say?"

    Sohee looked at Yooil with a serious face, the atmosphere suddenly bing tense.

    In the restaurant, adorned with antique interiors and quiet ssical music, the nces of the four met precariously.

    And Yooil, still with a lifted lip corner, wasughing.

    "Ai, ai it''s all a joke."

    "Stop bullshitting."

    At that moment, Jongsun loudly ced his cup down.

    "Enough already."

    At his words, everyone fell silent.

    As the ufortable silence lingered, a waiter with her hair tightly tied approached and ced warm tea and side dishes on the table.

    Thus, the most splendid yet ufortable meal began.

    <i>That''s it.''</i>

    Watching their expressions through the monitor, Director Yoo Jaeho smiled contently.

    It was exactly the picture he had envisioned.

    <i>Nice, this is it.''</i>

    The anticipation for the uing shoots started to build already.

    * * *

    "Actor, is a grilled cussfish lunch box okay?"

    "Yes, that''s fine."

    Yooil sat down at the spot prepared by the staff.

    "You''re really different when acting."

    "Oh, no, not really."

    Director Yoo Jaeho approached the actors with a beaming smile.

    "You all are doing great! Let''s keep this up. Oh, and Yooil."

    His gaze then turned to Han Yooil.

    "Yooil, you''re so different on the monitor and in person, I can hardly recognize you. You''re really good."

    "Thank you."

    The other actors chuckled and chimed in.

    "Director, you''re dripping honey from your eyes."

    "Jealous of you, Yooil."

    It was their first meeting, but the atmosphere was morefortable than expected.

    Everyone being new to leading roles seemed to create a sense of camaraderie due to shared nervousness.

    "I heard from the director, you''re not from the acting department, Yooil?"

    "Yes, that''s correct. I''m studying Korean Literature."

    "Really? I thought you were already an experienced actor."

    "Isn''t it too good for someone who''s doing a movie for the first time? Haven''t you even done student films?"

    "Um yes, embarrassingly, it''s my first time."

    "That''s not embarrassing. It''s impressive."

    "Let the kid eat, stop talking."

    Thanks to Lee Jongsun''s consideratement, Yooil finally took his first bite.

    Sohee and Joonki seemed eager to talk to Yooil but began focusing on their meal too.

    Heart rate normal. Body temperature normal. Oxygen saturation normal. Chew well for digestion.

    <i>You don''t need to tell me that.''</i>

    Though slightly cold, the lunch box was quite tasty. Yooil took a big spoonful, inadvertently thinking,

    <i>I want to start the next shoot quickly.''</i>

    "Yooil really eats well and heartily~"

    "Ah, stop it now."

    Perhaps it was because of the lively actors around him, but Yooil didn''t hear.

    80% of phase 1 objective achieved.

    The soft murmur of Brion''s voice.

    * * *

    "Action!"

    With a brisk sound, Yooil closed his eyes.

    When he reopened them, he had transformed into a rough young man in histe twenties.

    A young man who had just experienced a meal costing over 150,000 won for the first time in a hotel, harboring all sorts of anger and inferiorityplex.

    And in front of him was Sohee, bending over in pain.

    "Ugh"

    The sound of endless retching echoed through the alley.

    "Come on, after eating something so expensive, why are you throwing it all up?"

    Yooil spoke with apparent displeasure but still patted Sohee''s back.

    It was not out of special consideration for Sohee, but rather because,pared to Joonki in his fifties or Jongsun in his seventies, Yooil was the more suitable person to offer the gesture.

    After more retching, Sohee struggled to stand up.

    "Are you done?"

    "Yeah. Sorry."

    "If you''re sorry, at least wipe your mouth."

    Yooil handed her a tissue with a blunt tone.

    After wiping her mouth roughly, Sohee started to stagger along. Joonki and Jongsun were already seated in the SUV they had been using.

    "If you can''t even digest it, why did you eat it?"

    As Yooil spoke harshly, Sohee lifted the corner of her mouth. It was not the confident smile she had in the restaurant.

    She responded with a raised tone.

    "Exactly. But I wanted to taste it again before dying."

    "Ha, seriously."

    Was it that delicious? It seemed just okay to me.

    Yooil grumbled as he walked. However, he soon slowed down. Sohee had stopped walking and was just standing there, staring into the distance.

    "Hey, what are you doing? Aren''t youing?"

    Yooil asked irritably, but Sohee didn''t answer for a while.

    "Ah, noona!"

    "I have cancer."

    "!"

    Yooil''s eyes widened slightly.

    "I''m going to die soon."

    "What are you talking about right now"

    "I lived so desperately and yet I have nothing left. Nothing at all"

    Then, Sohee startedughing hysterically. She held her stomach as if she genuinely found it funny.

    "Huh."

    Yooil tilted his head as he looked at Sohee.

    His eyes, initially widened in shock, gradually darkened.

    His expression was indecipherable.

    Not quite pity, as it was too stiff, and moreplex than mere shock or surprise.

    The assistant director, watching the monitor beside the director, unknowingly held his breath.

    <i>Is this really okay?''</i>

    The atmosphere was unsettling, raising an involuntary question.

    The sight of Soheeughing in the dark alley felt both sad and eerie, and Yooil, watching Sohee with those unreadable eyes, seemed almost frightening.

    The assistant director felt a chill down his spine.

    <i>How can he act so well?''</i>

    During the audition, such synergy was not anticipated.

    The assistant director thought so as he nced at Director Yoo Jaeho. As expected, Yoo Jaeho was already smiling contentedly.

    "Cut!"

    He called out with a thrilled face and pped his hands loudly. The scene had turned out exactly as he had envisioned.

    <i>I had high expectations after shooting the first scene.''</i>

    And here was an actor meeting those expectations to the tee.

    He felt like getting up and whistling with delight.

    "You both were fantastic! The acting was superb!"

    He gave a double thumbs-up and called the actors over. Soon, the actors gathered in front of the monitor.

    "Oh what''s this? Sohee''s acting is different again?"

    "Han Yooil, this expression here is good."

    "Thank you."

    Everyone added a word of praise, but Min Sohee just stared at the monitor without saying a word.

    "Gosh, this acting is really too good, right? I think this is the best acting I''ve seen from Sohee. Haha, am I being too sycophantic right now?"

    Even to Director Yoo Jaeho''s ttery, Min Sohee remained silent, her lips sealed.

    She felt the same as the director.

    Min Sohee had started acting in her early twenties.

    She began her acting career in a small theater group but couldn''t continue due to the need to make a living. Whenever she had some spare time, Min Sohee tried to act. Although she never let go of acting, as time passed, she increasingly felt a clear limit.

    But it seemed like she had just witnessed the threshold of that limit.

    And she knew the reason.

    <i>It''s because of that kid.''</i>

    That young man, calmly monitoring beside her. She wouldn''t have been able to act like this if it weren''t for Han Yooil.

    <i>So young what will be of him?''</i>

    A mixture of envy, amazement, and anticipation filled Min Sohee''s eyes.

    <i>If he keeps growing like this, maybe''</i>

    Before she could finish her thoughts, the monitoring ended. Han Yooil quickly returned from his serious expression to his usual one.

    Director Yoo Jaeho spoke brightly.

    "Let''s keep this one as is, and move on to the next scene."

    "Understood!"

    A swift shoot was good news for the staff too.

    "If we keep this up, we might get off early today."

    "Yes!"

    And Yooil and the other actors did their best to make the collective wish of an early wrap-up a reality.

    "You all did a tremendous job!"

    "You all worked harder. Thank you, everyone."

    The shoot concluded warmly. As everyone was packing up, a junior staff member, particrly happy about the early finish, asked Yooil,

    "Actor, what are you doing tomorrow? It''s an off-day, right?"

    "Oh, me?"

    Yooil responded with a smile as if painted on.

    "I''m going to my part-time job."

 Chapter 12:

    Chapter 12:

    Han Yooil sighed and looked out the window. The attire of people outside had be thicker.

    <i>It''s getting cold now.''</i>

    The convenience store had been Yooil''s part-time job for several months since his discharge from the military.

    He would have quit the job if he was receiving a substantial signing amount from acting or had a regr ie but it wasn''t time yet.

    You''ll be able to quit soon, Yooil. Don''t worry.

    <i>No, I''ll handle it.''</i>

    Was it Charlie Chaplin who said life is a tragedy when seen up close but aedy in long shot?

    It''s the same for all service jobs. Convenience stores were no exception.

    "Hey, hurry! Call me a taxi! Eh?!"

    This meant the asional appearance of problematic customers.

    A middle-aged man with disheveled appearance and flushed face started fumbling with items in the convenience store.

    Drunken customers were present, not justte at night or early in the morning, but quite frequently. Yooil learned this through various part-time jobs.

    "Why, because I''m not buying anything? I''ll buy! I''ll buy, okay?!"

    "Sir, there''s a customer ahead of you. Please wait a moment, and I''ll assist you shortly."

    Yooil responded calmly without changing his facial expression and began to scan the multitude of snacks the man in the hat had brought.

    Then, the swearing drunkard changed the direction of his anger. He started poking at the young man standing in front of him.

    "Hey, you bastard, who are you to ignore me?"

    Judging by his level of intoxication and the loudness of his voice, it didn''t seem like it would end easily.

    "Sir. Please don''t do that."

    The drunkard, who had been touching the man in front, now started shaking a disy stand in anger.

    At that moment, the man, who had been quietly standing with his face covered with a hat and scarf, spoke for the first time.

    "It''s okay. You can proceed with his transaction first."

    The man was polite.

    Yooil responded with a simrly calm voice.

    "I''ve just reported to the police."

    "!"

    The man with his face covered was startled and looked behind him. Fortunately, the drunkard didn''t seem to have heard it.

    "At this point, he''s not in a state to have a conversation."

    "Hmm I see."

    The man with only his eyes showing nodded and turned around again.

    That''s when Brion popped up unexpectedly.

    Well done, Yooil.

    Though 90% of what Brion said was either unnecessary or aggressive, sometimes it could be quite helpful.

    Fortunately, a patrol car nearby is on duty. They are expected to arrive in 5 minutes.

    Just like now.

    "Damn it! Every one of you is pissing me off! Do you think I''m easy? Am I? You bastards"

    The man with only his eyes showing flinched at that voice. Han Yooil scanned the barcode calmly and said,

    "I apologize for the dy, sir. I''ll finish your transaction quickly. That''ll be 16,800 won."

    "Thank you."

    The man said. It was a pleasing tenor voice. He briefly lifted his head and looked at Yooil. His eyes, the only visible feature, met Yooil''s gaze directly.

    He gathered the snacks into his arms and smiled with his eyes.

    "Take care."

    The sound of the siren was heard shortly after the man left. Soon after, two police officers entered the convenience store.

    "Oh, that guy''s here again."

    "He''s a regr troublemaker."

    "Are you okay?"

    "Yes, I''m fine."

    The officers approached the drunkard with tired expressions. After a brief scuffle, the store regained its quiet only after the drunkard left with the police.

    Han Yooil muttered softly as he gazed out the window.

    "I want to act."

    It was a spontaneous utterance.

    89% of stage 1 objective achieved.

    "What?"

    That was an unexpected remark.

    However, Yooil couldn''t inquire further. New customers had entered the store. He began reciting the movie script in his mind, recalling his lines.

    It was a long afternoon.

    * * *

    After his shift, Yooil headed to the rooftop caf at school. With the semester break passed, there were fewer students around.

    <i>This is nice.''</i>

    It was the season when the sun sets early, and the sky was already darkening.

    He took a deep breath as he looked at the mountains in the distance and the low buildings.

    The rooftop caf was his favorite spot in the school.

    Even though he had only attended for one semester before enlisting in the military, he used to go up to the rooftop whenever he had a chance.

    In fact, Han Yooil had always liked rooftops since he was young. It was a kind of hobby. Looking down from the rooftop always eased his ustrophobic feelings.

    Shall we practice?

    "Yeah."

    He nodded and then closed his eyes. The lines for the next day''s shooting scene came to mind.

    [S#40 Rest Area Bench (Day)

    The group has just finished their meal.

    As they are conversing, Sohee suddenly copses forward. Foam startsing out of Sohee''s mouth.

    Yooil: Noona Noona!

    A pale Yooil, along with Jongsun and Joonki, rushes towards Sohee. Jongsun''s expression darkens as he examines her.

    Jongsun: Could it be

    Yooil: What? What''s happening?

    Joonki: What''s the matter?!

    Jongsun: Poison.]

    Hearing that, Yooil slowly blinked.

    "What do you mean, grandma?"

    "Call 119 right now."

    Yooil, with a puzzled look, nces at Jongsun and then at Sohee.

    So, is Sohee noona poisoned?

    But why?

    "Hurry up!"

    Yooil snaps back to reality and starts to act. His body, which had been frozen, seemed to thaw all at once.

    Right, I need to contact someone, call 119

    Yooil, there''s a presence detected not far from here.

    <i>Huh?''</i>

    Yooil tightly closed his eyes and then reopened them. His blurred vision gradually cleared.

    The subject is approaching.

    Are you a navigation system now?

    Yooil was about to voice hisint when someone indeed approached him. It wasn''t a typical call of his name.

    "Hey! Convenience Store!"

    "?"

    Yooil turned his head, blinked for a moment, and then let out a sound of recognition. It was the same customer who had faced the drunkard''s harassment at the convenience store earlier.

    "Nice to meet you. Are you a student at Wolmyeong University?"

    At Yooil''s question, the man wearing the hat rolled his eyes.

    "No, I''m not a student! I came to see someone I know."

    And then he smiled. The only visible part of his face, hisrge eyes, crinkled into a crescent moon shape. Seeing those eyes, a thought shed through Yooil''s mind.

    <i>A celebrity?''</i>

    Now that he noticed, the man''s small face and slender figure gave off an extraordinary vibe.

    There were a few celebrities in the acting department at Wolmyeong University besides Ji Eunho. Han Yooil remembered how Kim Jinwoo would get excited whenever they happened to meet celebrities.

    Yooil wasn''t particrly interested in such matters. After all, actors or idols were just professions.

    Moreover, they were at a school where people came to study, not work, so he didn''t want to unnecessarily attract attention.

    You''ll soon be like that too, Yooil.

    Yooil ignored Brion again and shook his head.

    "Well then."

    As Yooil was about to leave, the man looked at him with a puzzled expression.

    Then he chuckled softly and bowed his head, saying goodbye.

    <i>Is he in a good mood?''</i>

    Yooil shrugged and got on the elevator.

    Now it was time to prepare for tomorrow''s film shoot.

    * * *

    While Yooil was at the rooftop caf, Lee Hyejin, having just finished the semester, was glued to her bed, focused on her phone.

    More specifically, she was engrossed in BlueChat. She absentmindedly posted anything on BlueChat.

    [@jinnnny

    Not doing anything but want to do even less of anything.]

    Having many followers meant that even the most trivial posts quickly gathered empathy. Yet, Lee Hyejin''s boredom did not fade.

    "Isn''t there anything fun?"

    For example, like theater, theater, or theater.

    Indeed.

    Even after the semester had ended, she couldn''t break away from <Romeo in Wondend>.

    Lee Hyejin scrolled through BlueChat posts with a dry expression.

    [@gmrgmr

    Her face is crazy again today (picture) (picture)]

    [@qmfforvjcjehfdl

    Eunho-ya, I love you (crying GIF)]

    "Is fangirling fun?"

    But she wasn''t particrly drawn to anyone.

    However, at that moment, a face suddenly flickered through Hyejin''s mind.

    -My love, my wife. Even the god of death, who drank all your honeyed breaths, couldn''t conquer your beauty.

    Murmuring his lines as if he were handling something so fragile it might break any moment, he tenderly caressed the woman''s face

    "that was really great acting."

    <i>If he were an actor, I would have taken photos of that scene already and set them all as my wallpaper''</i>

    Lee Hyejin shook her head. To harbor such thoughts about a mere stranger, not even a celebrity. She pped her own cheek and refreshed her feed once more.

    Then, a post caught her eye.

    [@dkdlzn

    Our show''s vampire and the boy on stage Insane (photo) (photo)]

    "Show? Ah, Jung Suho."

    Theatre and musical buffs, colloquially known as thea-mus buffs,'' had various nicknames for their favorite actors. Jung Suho was affectionately called Show.''

    "Is this a poster?"

    Staring nkly at the photo, Lee Hyejin almost dropped her phone.

    "c-ssmate?"

    She thought she was mistaken, but she wasn''t. Indeed, it was her ssmate.

    The first poster featured the young, frail-looking Han Yooil crouched beside Jung Suho, who was dressed as a vampire.

    In the second poster, Han Yooil''s face was utterly different. His skin was pale, his lips curled into a sinister smile, as he stared piercingly into the camera. This time, Jung Suho, d in a grey sweatshirt and jeans, sat beside Yooil with a somber expression.

    "Crazy."

    Lee Hyejin mped her mouth shut.

    <i>Why on earth are you there?''</i>

    Just days ago, they were attending lectures together

    And yet, she found herself coveting these posters, wanting to ster them on her wall.

    From then on, Lee Hyejin began collecting tidbits of information like gathering specks of dust.

    <i>Movies too and theatre? Really?''</i>

    It seemed Han Yooil, a student of Myungwol University''s Department of Korean Literature, was aiming to be an actor.

    <i>This means a real debut right?''</i>

    Lee Hyejin''s heart started racing. And her lips, too, curled up uncontrobly.

    <i>I can start fangirling now!''</i>

    That was when she started sharing rted articles and photos as if possessed.

    Lee Hyejin creating a new ount for her fangirling started around this time too.

 Chapter 13:

    Chapter 13:

    After finishing his meal and tidying up, Yooil stretched broadly. The clear sky filled his view.

    <i>Ah, this is nice.''</i>

    Both the weather and his mood were at their best.

    Today''s shooting was scheduled to take ce in a location far from Seoul, so after having lunch at the filming site, the actors were all set to start filming.

    "Did everyone have a good meal?"

    At the staff''s inquiry, Yooil nodded with a smile.

    "Yes, I had a full meal."

    "Sorry we couldn''t offer anything better. Oh, and you muste to the after-party! The director has nned a big treat," the staff whispered rapidly, adding that it wasn''t an opportunity that came every day.

    "My, what an honor~"

    "Really, the director thinks so highly of us!"

    Watching the actors jest cheerfully, Yooil thought to himself,

    <i>Everyone seems to be in high spirits.''</i>

    It''s ideal conditions for shooting.

    Brion responded crisply.

    He didn''t want to admit it, but it was true. When it came to acting, nothing was more important than being in good condition.

    The actors, having digested their food through casual chatter, started gearing up for the shoot.

    "Okay, let''s stand by. Sound!"

    "Speed."

    "Roll."

    "Scene 38, Take 1!"

    As the te pped down, Yoo Jaeho called out loudly,

    "Action!"

    They were eating at a rest area.

    Why were they eating at a rest area all of a sudden?

    It was because this rest area was a gourmet spot insisted upon by Joonki.

    Sohee stirred her udon with a displeased face. She clearly didn''t like it.

    "Who eats at rest areas these days? Talk about old-fashioned."

    "Come on~ It''s delicious. Don''t be like that, huh?"

    At Joonki''s words, Sohee, who had been ring at him, scoops up a spoonful of the broth. However, she starts coughing before she can even swallow it properly.

    "Ew, what''s this~ The taste is so weird~?"

    "It''s supposed to be delicious."

    "It''s fine for me."

    "Really? How about grandma, is she okay with it?"

    Sohee asks Jongsun, who had ordered the same tempura udon.

    "It''s edible for me."

    As Jongsun also doesn''t give the response Sohee anticipated, her face falls.

    "What the~ Is it really just me? Is that it?"

    "Big sis, even if it''s not tasty, eat it anyway. Don''t copseter."

    Beside the grumbling Sohee, Joonki hastily gulps down his food.

    "Cut! Good job. Let''s move on to the next shot."

    Director Yoo Jaeho nodded and, after filming the same scene from various angles, moved on to the next scene.

    It was Scene 39.

    <i>That''s right, the next scene was a bit short.''</i>

    As Yooil nced at the script and thought this, Brion chimed in as if he had been waiting.

    That''s correct. It should be over quickly.

    "Do Not Disturb mode."

    Scene 39.

    Sohee says she''ll go to the restroom, and Yooil and Joonki buy ice cream.

    It was supposed to be a simple scene.

    However, contrary to everyone''s expectations that it would end quickly, the takes kept getting longer.

    It was all because of Min Sohee.

    I need to use the restroom oh, that''s not the first line. Sorry.

    Don''t worry, the restroom is no, that''s not it. Sorry!

    Don''t worry, I need the restroom Oh my. Really sorry. Ah, why is this so confusing

    Initially smiling, Director Yoo Jaeho''s expression gradually faded as the takes increased.

    With each take, Min Sohee''s face grew paler.

    "Ah, I''m really sorry. Truly~"

    "It''s okay. Let''s quickly move on to the next take!"

    Both Park Joonki and Lee Jongsun looked at her sympathetically, but there was nothing they could do to help.

    She''s stuck in a quagmire''.

    <i>A quagmire?''</i>

    Every actor asionally gets their lines tangled like that.

    Han Yooil quietly pondered.

    A few secondster, he called out to Brion.

    <i>Brion.''</i>

    Yes, Yooil.

    <i>What about this approach?''</i>

    Sensing Yooil''s thoughts, Brion kept silent for a few seconds before speaking.

    That''s a good idea. Director Yoo Jaeho is known for his leniency. It''s worth a try.

    With the voice echoing in his mind, Han Yooil slowly stood up.

    Instantly, the eyes of the actors and staff members focused on him.

    "Excuse me, Director."

    Yooil approached Director Yoo Jaeho and cautiously spoke.

    "Would it be okay if I add a line before?"

    "Uh?"

    Director Yoo Jaeho squinted at Yooil.

    "You want to add a line?"

    <i>Let''s hear it first.''</i>

    Director Yoo Jaeho slowly nodded, and Han Yooil pointed to the script.

    [S#39 Rest Area Front (Daytime)

    After eating, each person moves in their own way to digest the meal.

    Among them, Sohee looks ufortable.

    Sohee stands up abruptly.

    Yooil and Jongsun, who were drinking their beverages, look at Sohee.

    Sohee: Don''t worry. It''s not like I''m going to throw up. I just need to use the restroom for a sec.]

    "Right here, when Senior Sohee stands up, how about I ask Why, you''re gonna throw up again?'' It seems like it might be easier if Senior and I have an exchange of lines."

    "Hmm."

    Tap, tap, tap.

    After tapping his chin for a few seconds, Director Yoo Jaeho slowly nodded.

    "Not bad. Alright, let''s give it a try. Is that okay with you, Sohee?"

    "Yes, that sounds good. Asking like that beforehand seems like it would make it easier."

    Min Sohee, who looked as if she was about to wilt away, responded brightly as if she had found a clear spring.

    "Thank you, Yooil."

    "Not at all. Shall we try it out?"

    Director Yoo Jaeho narrowed his eyes as he watched Han Yooil and Min Sohee rehearse the lines.

    <i>That''s clever.''</i>

    He was a bit surprised. Not just by the content of the suggestion but also by the audacity it took. Proposing changes to the director on the set of his first film wasn''t an easy thing to do.

    <i>Well then let''s see how it goes.''</i>

    He needed to see for himself if Han Yooil''s suggestion was indeed usable.

    "Okay, we''re going again~"

    The red light on the camera turned on.

    "Scene 39, Take 9!"

    As the te pped, Director Yoo Jaeho took a deep breath.

    "Action!"

    And in front of the camera, they became the group that met in a suicidemunity.

    Sohee, with a pale and ufortable face, holding her stomach, suddenly stands up.

    Yooil, who was watching Sohee while drinking banana milk, speaks up.

    "Why, you gonna throw up again?"

    His tone is rough and somewhat irritating, but not overtly confrontational.

    It''s something Yooil''s character could say.

    "Don''t worry. It''s not like I''m going to throw up."

    Then, Yooil nonchntly shrugs his shoulders as if saying she should handle it herself.

    Watching him, Sohee starts to get irritated. Biting her lip slightly, she says,

    "I''m just going to the restroom for a sec, okay?"

    "So what if you are."

    Sohee res briefly at Yooil before turning around and walking away.

    With each step, her anger is palpable.

    Yooil, not even watching her leave, takes a sip of his banana milk.

    The lighting team''s staff couldn''t take their eyes off the scene.

    It was a scene they had read in the script.

    But what unfolded before their eyes surpassed the script.

    "Cut!"

    Director Yoo Jaeho shouted brightly. As soon as he heard the word cut'', Han Yooil''s eyebrows drooped.

    "I''m sorry. I just responded to the lines spontaneously, Director."

    "No, no. It''s good. We''re keeping that, exactly as it was."

    Director Yoo Jaeho, excited, looked at Min Sohee and continued,

    "Ah, that was really good! Sohee, you can do it like that!"

    "Thank you."

    Min Sohee clenched her fist. Her heart was still racing.

    It was partly because she was still irked by Yooil''s retort a moment ago.

    "You did really well, Senior."

    At Han Yooil''s words, Min Sohee gave a faint smile. Her eyes moist, she softly called Yooil''s name.

    "Yooil."

    "Yes?"

    "No, it''s nothing."

    Min Sohee''s frown deepened slightly.

    "Let''s take a break."

    At Director Yoo Jaeho''s words, the assistant director nodded and announced,

    "Everyone, we''re taking a short break~"

    While the staff were reorganizing, Yooil headed to the restroom.

    Park Joonki, Lee Jongsun, and Min Sohee were still sitting in their ces.

    All of them were deep in thought.

    "He''s impressive."

    Park Joonki was the first to break the silence.

    "Indeed."

    Lee Jongsun nodded in agreement, and Min Sohee genuinely concurred.

    They were actors who varied widely in age, ranging from 15 to even 50 years older than Han Yooil. When they first met the young Yooil on the first day of shooting, they simply found him adorable.

    That was before they acted alongside him.

    "Before, a now-deceased senior actor once said this,"

    Min Sohee continued softly.

    "A truly great actor isn''t just good at their own performance but enhances the performance of their fellow actors as well."

    Lee Jongsun nodded.

    "That''s true."

    They too were individuals whose passion and experience in acting were no less than those of renowned actors. Sadly, there''s a wall called talent in acting.

    The world is full of talented actors. And there are many who are fortunate or blessed with great looks.

    Min Sohee, Park Joonki, and Lee Jongsun, they all didn''t want their passion for acting to be overshadowed in their struggle to survive in the industry. However, standing out through acting was harder than plucking stars from the sky. Most of their days were spent being overshadowed as extras'' to the main characters. They were individuals who had spent decades grappling with this sadness and alienation.

    <i>I''ve met quite a few actors in my time.''</i>

    But among them, actors who possessed talent, effort, and something more were truly rare.

    "Yooil is a good actor."

    Lee Jongsun and Park Joonki nodded in agreement with Min Sohee''s remark.

    "He''s going to make it big."

    "You never know. Participating in this project might turn out to be a huge portfolio for us too."

    Lee Jongsun said this and chuckled.

    "Of course, we have to live long enough to see it."

    "What are you talking about, Senior."

    The trio turned their heads towards the voice from behind. Han Yooil was standing there with wide eyes.

    "You need to live a long life. It''s an era of longevity. You''ve still got plenty of time left."

    At Yooil''s words, Min Sohee burst intoughter. Even Park Joonki, who was trying to keep a straight face, broke into loudughter, leaving Han Yooil puzzled.

    <i>Were they talking about me?''</i>

    If they were talking about Han Yooil, there''s a 38% chance it was praise, 47% chance it was gossip

    <i>Enough.''</i>

    * * *

    The short break for casual chatter passed. Voices announcing the resumption of shooting were heard here and there.

    "We''re about to start shooting~!"

    Hearing this, Yooil slowly stood up.

    <i>Finally, we''re filming this scene.''</i>

    The scene they were about to shoot was the one Yooil had practiced the most for this movie. It was a challenging scene, but the preparation process was as enjoyable as it was difficult.

    A suitably pleasant tension flowed through Yooil''s veins, invigorating him. Han Yooil stood up slowly with a face filled with faint anticipation.

    <i>I have to do it right.''</i>

    And he truly believed he would do it right''.

 Chapter 14:

    Chapter 14:

    "Action!"

    With a lively cue, Yooil slowly opened his eyes.

    In that moment, Han Yooil once again became Yooil'' from "The Last Diner."

    "Uh."

    After returning from the restroom, Sohee copses in front of their car.

    In his view, while casually drinking banana milk, he sees Sohee copsing powerlessly.

    "Noona?"

    The banana milk drops from Yooil''s hand. He bends his knees towards the fallen Sohee,

    "Noona!"

    He begins to shake Sohee.

    The slight gap in Han Yooil''s lips and eyes starts to quiver from the sudden shock.

    <i>Could it be.''</i>

    He slowly lowers his head and ces his hand near Sohee''s nose.

    There''s breathing.

    His dimmed eyes slowly start to find light.

    <i>Wow''</i>

    The camera operator capturing Yooil''s face from a low angle quietly admired.

    <i>That''s impressive.''</i>

    To create such trembling on camera so aptly.

    <i>I doubt anyone could do this even if they tried.''</i>

    Other faces appear in the camera.

    Behind Yooil, the pale-faced Joonki and Jongsun approach.

    Pushing past Joonki who is muttering curses, Jongsun crouches down.

    After checking Sohee''s pulse and lifting her eyelids to examine her pupils, she murmurs softly.

    "Could it be"

    "What?"

    Jongsun doesn''t answer easily. Annoyance fills Joonki''s face, while frustration starts to rise in Yooil,

    "What''s going on?"

    "That''s right, it''s happening again, isn''t it?!"

    Finally, Jongsun opens her lips.

    "Poison"

    Upon hearing that, Yooil slowly blinks.

    "What do you mean Grandma?"

    "Call 119 right now."

    Yooil stares nkly at Jongsun.

    Poison?

    Why?

    He genuinely doesn''t understand.

    They all ate together. But why

    "Hurry up!"

    Sparks fly from Lee Jongsun''s eyes. Only after hermand does Yooil start blinking.

    Is it shock? His vision keeps blurring.

    Surely she''s not going to die like this, not die like this

    "Yes Emergency room! Emergency room!"

    Hearing Joonki''s shout, Yooil presses his trembling hand on his phone.

    However, with 119 on the screen, Yooil''s finger hesitates over the call button.

    "What are you doing, call already!"

    "Are we, are we really okay going to the hospital?"

    At his words, Jongsun and Joonki look at Yooil.

    ""

    "Is it really, really okay?"

    Eerily empty eyes move.

    The gaze sweeps over Sohee''s coat and bag with luxury brand logos, then moves to the faces of a woman in her 70s and a shabby middle-aged man.

    Amid the fear that someone they had been living with might die and the cruel selfishness of fearing they might be med for the situation, the eyes were filled with mixed emotions.

    "I"

    Joonki''s mouth opened and then closed.

    The strength in Yooil''s hands gradually faded.

    And in the next moment,

    Jongsun snatched Yooil''s phone.

    "!"

    And pressed the call button in a sh.

    "Cut!"

    Silence pervaded the set.

    The actors remained still in their ces.

    Just then, Yoo Jaeho, who had been staring at the monitor as if frozen, suddenly stood up. He approached the actors with a brisk pace, his face seeming a bit angry.

    All the staff held their breath and watched him.

    Then, standing in front of the actors, Yoo Jaeho opened his mouth.

    "Thank you."

    "!"

    Seeing Yoo Jaeho''s face, Yooil was a bit surprised. It was because his eyes were moist.

    It was then that Brion''s voice echoed in his head.

    Phase 1 objective 93% achieved.

    <i>What?''</i>

    But Brion didn''t respond to Han Yooil''s question.

    The external temperature is causing your body temperature to decrease. It is rmended that you go indoors or use a heat pack.

    It only diverted the conversation like this.

    * * *

    At the same time, in a practice room in the NVB building in Seongsu-dong,

    Inside, a blonde man wearing a white sweatshirt and ck track pants was dancing.

    His hat and scarf, which had covered his face, were ced in a corner of the practice room.

    The man was warming up, with Bluetooth earphones in his ears.

    One, two three, four.

    One and two, three and four.

    He counted the beats with his mouth and moved his feet. Ever since he first entered the agency through dance, he hadn''t skipped a single day of practice.

    Each movement revealed the defined lines of his muscr body.

    "Hey there, Kim Harang."

    The man looked up. With a high voice, the door to the practice room opened, and a man wearing a ck hat and a gray tracksuit set entered. It was Jang Woosin, a colleague and member of ck Sea.

    "It''s been a while~"

    "It sure has, hyung!"

    ck Sea, who had recently been fulfilling various events and promotional shooting schedules, each received a short vacation. It had been several days since they had met like this in the practice room.

    "Hey, Kim Harang. You went to Myungmoon University a few days ago, right? The manager hyung said so~"

    "Yes."

    "Why''d you go without Eunho hyung?"

    "Ah, it wasn''t to see hyung!"

    Kim Harang lightly answered Woosin''s question and then focused back on dancing. Jang Woosin didn''t ask any further.

    As usual, a simple andfortablepanion. Harang thought so as he changed the music.

    Kim Harang''s visit to Myungmoon University that day was because of his sister, a graduate student.

    <i>Though I ended up seeing someone else for longer than my sister''</i>

    The man who helped him at the convenience store, the one practicing acting at the rooftop caf.

    What do you mean, Grandma?

    At that moment, the man''s fingertips were trembling.

    Had he had earphones in his ears, one might have thought he was on a call.

    The man was acting.

    The concentration of the man was unbreakable, even without a counterpart or even props to interact with. The man, undoubtedly a unique individual, remained focused until Kim Harang approached.

    And above all he performed well.

    <i>Could he have been a rookie actor?''</i>

    Wetting his throat with a momentary distraction, Harang resumed his dance practice. Soon another member entered the practice room.

    "Hello, hyung!"

    "It''s been a while~"

    He was Yoo Yeonho, the main vocalist of ck Sea. With light brown hair and sses, he entered the room. As the three members were warming up separately, the practice room door opened again. This time, it wasn''t a member.

    "Hey, Manager~ Hello~!"

    "Hello!"

    A woman with her long hair tied up high. She was the manager who had been with ck Sea since its nning stages.

    "Ah, everyone''s here except for Eunho and Mino?"

    The manager looked pleased to see the members back in the practice room even on thest day of their vacation.

    What''s the most crucial thing for idols? Talent, appearance, singing, dancing all important. But the fundamental thing that needs to back them up is perseverance.

    It was harder to maintain a high position for more than four years in the rapidly moving entertainment industry than walking on a tightrope.

    <i>It''s because of kids like these that we''vee this far.''</i>

    ck Sea was her first and most significant career.

    "Did you all have a good rest?"

    "Yes, totally~"

    "Woosin, I can tell by your face. Didn''t you wear sunscreen? What''s with your face? How did you get so tanned?"

    After swiftly nagging at Jang Woosin, the manager pointed at Kim Harang.

    "By the way, Harang. From tomorrow, you need to take additional acting sses."

    "Acting sses?"

    "You''re going to be in a web drama."

    "Really?"

    As Kim Harang widened his eyes in surprise, the manager shrugged.

    "The director likes your image. He''s currently the director that JM Studio is promoting. It''ll be released on Otube, and a monthter, the full version will be on Newblix."

    Newblix was a global OTT tform, recently running at its all-time high stock prices.

    "Wow~ Kim Harang!"

    Although Jang Woosin yfully nudged him, Kim Harang looked bewildered.

    "Eunho will be joining too, so ask him anything you want. Harang, it''s time for you to start acting."

    "Manager, what about me?"

    As Jang Woosin lit up with excitement, the manager chuckled.

    "Woosin let''s focus on variety shows."

    "Pssh."

    Jang Woosin pretended to sulk, but Kim Harang just smirked. It was well known that Woosin had not even a speck of interest in acting.

    "Manager."

    "Hmm?"

    "What''s the drama about?"

    As Kim Harang asked, Yoo Yeonho, who was pretending not to be interested, perked up his ears. After a short consideration, the manager opened her mouth.

    "High teen."

    "High teen?"

    "Yes. A high teen musical drama."

    "Wow, dude! I really like HighX School Musical!"

    Ignoring the excited Jang Woosin, the manager continued.

    "It''s about kids who dance well, sing well, can''t sing but dance well, can''t dance but sing well, alling together to put on a stage Well, read the script when ites out."

    "Got it."

    "Ah, and Harang."

    "Yes! Manager."

    The manager looked at Kim Harang and smiled brightly.

    "You''re the guy who can''t sing but dances well''."

    * * *

    Meanwhile, the filming of "The Last Diner" was rapidly approaching its final stages.

    Shooting continuedte into the evening, and everyone was having their dinner. However, Director Yoo Jaeho was so engrossed that he couldn''t tell if he was eating through his mouth or his nose.

    "Cr"

    "Director, you spilled everything."

    He was obliviously smiling with kimchi soup staining his pants.

    "Oh, I''m dying."

    Yoo Jaeho was watching the cuts swiftly pieced together by the onsite editing team. Despite the quick work and not yet undergoing proper editing, the output was surprisingly more polished than expected.

    It wouldn''t be an exaggeration to say 80% of this was thanks to the actors.

    <i>I chose the actors too well.''</i>

    Yoo Jaeho felt like dancing in celebration of his discernment. He would have if there weren''t people watching around.

    "Is there anything additional to shoot?"

    "No. The remaining scenes are from here to here."

    He nodded in satisfaction. Only one day of shooting was left.

    "It''s already making me sad~"

    Min Sohee said with a smile that crinkled her eyes.

    "We only have the final shooting left."

    "That''s right."

    Yooil nodded in agreement. He too felt a sense of longing as the shooting neared its end.

    "I learned a lot thanks to you, Yooil."

    "What are you talking about, Senior. I learned more."

    Yooil said with wide eyes, and Min Sohee shook her head with a smile.

    She didn''t know what else to say when he spoke so sincerely

    <i>He''s exceptional.''</i>

    She knew that without Han Yooil, she wouldn''t have been able to showcase her full potential in this film.

    Lee Jongsun, looking at Yooil with warm eyes, chimed in.

    "I also feel rejuvenated thanks to this. When would I get the chance to act with such young actors again?"

    "Hey, you all are going to be even more sessful."

    "Yooil, you know, you have such a good face and personality! Right? You''re definitely going to be hugely sessful~"

    When Park Joonki joined in, Han Yooil didn''t know where to put himself out of embarrassment. Seeing his reaction, the other actors shared a yful look.

    It seemed Yooil didn''t yet realize that his reaction only made them want topliment him more genuinely.

    * * *

    Time passed, and the final day of shooting for "The Last Diner" arrived.

    "Is everyone ready?"

    "Yes~"

    The lead actors exchanged bright nces, quickly gathered their emotions, and fixed their eyes on the script.

    A scene that made not just the director and actors, but also the staff both excited and anxious, was about to unfold.

 Chapter 15:

    Chapter 15:

    "The Last Diner''s" final shooting was particrly dramatic.

    Characters who had been merely covering up issues and traveling together began to express their dissatisfaction and start doubting each other.

    The incident of Sohee''s poisoning was the start. The story, flowing unpredictably with the eruption of distrust among them, revealed an unexpected twist at the end.

    With the right direction, it seemed like a production that could capture both entertainment and artistic value.

    Of course, there was still post-production dubbing left, and no one knew how many more months it would take before everything waspleted.

    <i>I can''t wait to see the final version.''</i>

    Yooil clenched his fist, filled with anticipation.

    When he first auditioned, he couldn''t imagine that the end of the film shooting would evere.

    "Action!"

    The shooting of thest scene began. Yooil, who had already finished his part, was watching the set with the staff.

    He felt anew how filmmaking was a genre that required many people.

    <i>It feels strange.''</i>

    Currently, Mr. Han Yooil, your heart rate is normal, and your oxygen saturation is also normal. Make sure to maintain your body temperature.

    <i>''</i>

    He clenched the hand warmer he had in his pocket and focused straight ahead.

    Before Han Yooil''s eyes were people hurling almost scream-like insults at each other.

    Lee Jongsun, Park Joonki, Min Sohee, and

    <i>I didn''t know this person would be in it.''</i>

    Han Yooil watched the face of one actor with a serious expression.

    Joo Heeyoung.

    She was a famous supporting actress known to anyone as Ah, that person from that film.'' Wasn''t it already three blockbuster movies she had appeared in?

    He had been curious why there was an extra character in the script when there were only four leads.

    It seemed like the other actors, until a few days ago, hadn''t known about Joo Heeyoung''s participation.

    <i>Did the director intentionally keep it a secret?''</i>

    The likelihood of that is low. ording to research, they continued to look for actors even after the shooting started.

    He wasn''t even curious anymore about how this insane AI knew such things.

    <i>Anyway, everyone''s energy is really good.''</i>

    The actors on average have over 20 years of experience. Experience cannot be underestimated.

    Whether the AI could feel experience or not, Yooil agreed with the sentiment.

    Han Yooil quietly observed the middle-aged actors before him.

    <i>Could I be like them?''</i>

    Except for Joo Heeyoung, the four lead actors loved acting and maintained their livelihoods while passionately pursuing their craft.

    Han Yooil wasn''t sure if he had the confidence to tread such a tough path solely for the sake of acting.

    Do not worry, Mr. Yooil. I will take responsibility.

    <i>What exactly?''</i>

    As Yooil felt uneasy and fiddled with his cor, Director Yoo Jaeho shouted loudly.

    "Cut!"

    As his cut sign fell, everyone began to apud. It was a show of support for the actors who had given their all in their performance. Han Yooil too pped until his palms felt numb.

    "Great job, everyone!"

    "Thank you~"

    "Everyone, let''s have dinner!"

    Greetings filled the set. Everyone was heading towards the indoor set for dinner. Yooil was also about to move when someone tapped his shoulder.

    "Excuse me, actor."

    "Yes?"

    A youngest staff member, her face reddened by the cold, approached hesitantly.

    "It''s just if it''s okay, could we take a picture together?"

    "With me?"

    To Han Yooil''s question, the staff member nodded. She suppressed the awkwardness welling up to her throat and looked at the camera of her phone.

    "One, two, three!"

    The staff member pressed the shutter with a bright face, as if her shyness had never existed.

    "Thank you. I''ll continue to support you."

    "Thank you. Your name is Hansol, right? I''ll support you too."

    Yooil''s words widened the staff member''s eyes.

    "You remember my name?"

    "You mentioned it when we had lunch together during the first shoot."

    <i>Wow!</i>

    The youngest staff member sped her hands together, her eyes sparkling as she looked at Han Yooil.

    <i>Even the sound director gets my name wrong</i>

    Although she didn''t have much experience, having entered the filming set at a young age, she had seen various actors. "The Last Diner" was among the best sets she had been on in terms of atmosphere.

    The director was significant, but the actors'' preparedness and quickprehension were also huge factors. Especially Han Yooil, despite his young age, was an actor with incredible intuition.

    "It''s quite cold. Let''s go inside."

    At Han Yooil''s words, the staff member quietly nodded.

    !

    As they entered indoors, the actors let out small gasps.

    What caught their eyes first was not the dinner or the cream cake, butrge letters.

    [For the final shoot  From all the staff of "The Last Diner"]

    It was a banner written by hand by the staff who participated in the film. It looked like they had taken a brief moment during their break to create it.

    "My, when did you prepare this."

    "It''s so cute~"

    "Look here, what''s this drawing! Who drew this."

    Even Director Yoo Jaeho was taken aback. Heughed awkwardly, not knowing about it himself.

    The production crew and actors took several group photos in front of the banner before they could start dinner properly.

    Though the wrap-up party was scheduled for another day, it almost felt like one already.

    Shooting had finished earlier than expected, and everyone was lively.

    * * *

    Hey, hey, you can''t leave yet~

    I have a part-time job tomorrow.

    Ah, dear.

    With regretful looks behind him, Han Yooil finally made it home and copsed on his bed, utterly exhausted. His body was screaming with fatigue, but sleep didn''te easily. It felt like someone had taken his brain and tossed it high up in the air.

    <i>The movie was quite fun.''</i>

    With that thought, Han Yooil closed his eyes.

    Phase 1 objective 100% achieved.

    Entering Phase 2 now.

    * * *

    "Is this the ce, Yooil?"

    Jin Hayoung''s voice quivered slightly.

    "Yes."

    Even after getting out of the car, she still looked bewildered.

    "We''re having dinner here?"

    "Yes. I''ve made all the reservations."

    <i>This is a hotel.''</i>

    Jin Hayoung looked at the hotel entrance, so luxurious it made her feel insignificant.

    She was happy when her nephew suggested they have dinner together outside. Even when Yooil said he would drive, she only felt proud of him.

    But now, arriving at a hotel in the center of Seoul, Jin Hayoung realized she had never crossed the threshold of a 4-star hotel before.

    Yooil, seemingly unaware or indifferent to Jin Hayoung''s feelings, led her inside with an untroubled expression.

    They passed through the lobby adorned with an opulent chandelier, took the elevator up, and entered a restaurant where ssical music yed.

    "Really we''re eating here?"

    She was sure that a meal here would cost over 100,000 won per person.

    "I''m fine with the local Chinese restaurant Where do you get the money?"

    Yooil responded to Jin Hayoung''s remark with a bright smile.

    "It''s okay. I received my pay yesterday."

    Jin Hayoung kept blinking in disbelief, and Yooil added,

    "The fee for the movie."

    With thepletion of "The Last Diner," Yooil received his pay ording to the contract.

    There were a total of 12 shooting days, and he was paid 400,000 won per day. So he received a total of 4.8 million won.

    "Don''t worry too much. I always wanted toe here with you, no matter when."

    "But still"

    As Jin Hayoung hesitated, she closed her mouth. Seeing Han Yooil''s radiant face, she decided to set aside her difort for the moment. She knew the heart of her nephew who wanted to treat her to something delicious.

    <i>I should enjoy this as much as I can.''</i>

    Jin Hayoung cleared her throat with a serious expression. She liked eating, but she was a light eater.

    However, the moment the appetizer that marked the beginning of the course meal was served, she realized all her worries were in vain.

    The lobster tasted different from any she had before. The tender, sweet fleshbined with the fresh sd brought a fragrant aroma of lemon and herbs.

    Starting with the appetizer, followed by the rich cream soup, grilled sea bream with carrot puree, tender steak, and a peculiar dessert whose name she couldn''t remember

    Expensive is indeed good.''

    Time flew as she savored the vors.

    "I''m living in luxury because of you."

    Jin Hayoung kept marveling as she enjoyed her meal.

    "Aunt."

    "Hmm?"

    "I have something for you."

    "What is it?"

    As Jin Hayoung leaned back contentedly, Han Yooil handed her an envelope.

    "Oh, a letter?"

    She opened the envelope with a bright smile, but her mouth fell open, powerless.

    It was too much money.

    "Yooil."

    It was money she couldn''t ept, especially from her nephew.

    Jin Hayoung attempted to persuade Han Yooil with a serious expression, but bending her nephew''s stubbornness was no easy task. Their dispute finally ended in the car on the way back home.

    In the end, Jin Hayoung agreed to use the money as part of her living expenses.

    * * *

    "Yooil. You don''t have to buy such meals for me in the future. And definitely no need for money. I have more money than you, you know?"

    "I know."

    <i>Does he really though?''</i>

    Jin Hayoung sighed internally, watching her nephew, who was focused on driving.

    <i>I keep thinking Maybe I''ve raised the kid to be too grown-up for his age.''</i>

    Would her sister scold herter? Jin Hayoung swallowed the sigh that threatened to escape.

    "Are you going to your part-time job tomorrow?"

    "Yes. I''ll go to the part-time job then head to prepare for the y."

    "Can you manage both?"

    Han Yooil shrugged.

    "It seems to work when I do it."

    Her nephew was relentless.

    Jin Hayoung shook her head and cast her gaze out the window. The lights from the passing cars shimmered over the river.

    "Yooil."

    "Yes."

    "Do you know what your mom and I used to do when we couldn''t sleep?"

    Yooil''s face stiffened slightly at that question. Unaware, Jin Hayoung continued.

    "We would list things we wanted to have."

    "Like cars, puppies, things like that?"

    "Yes."

    Jin Hayoung nodded.

    "Your mom that is, your mother, always talked about things that were unique in the world. The Eiffel Tower, the Mona Lisa, things like that. Isn''t it funny?"

    ""

    "When she named you Yooil, I teased her so much. Saying she only picks names that suit her like the only one''"

    Jin Hayoung''s vision began to blur with the lights along the road.

    ""

    Han Yooil quickly wiped the corners of his eyes.

    The car they were in continued to travel the road for a long time. It was a beautiful yet solemn night.

 Chapter 16:

    Chapter 16:

    Hey, Yooils here?

    Han Yooil nodded in response to Jung Suhos greeting.

    Hello, hyung.

    ?

    While the assistant director maintained a stoic expression, staff members who were new to the rehearsal space exchanged surprised nces.

    "Did they know each other before?"

    "That doesn''t seem to be the case."

    The unusually cordial duo attracted curious stares from the staff, but Jung Suho nonchntly put his hand on Han Yooils shoulder. The warmth of their interaction caused the staff to momentarily forget their bewilderment and simply watch the two actors.

    Seo Mihee, who had been checking the script with her beanie pulled down, stood up abruptly.

    Is everyone feeling alright?

    Yes.

    Han Yooil responded inly, and Jung Suho, smiling with his eyes, said,

    Thanks to the director.

    Oh,e on.

    Seo Mihee chuckled at his banter and pped her hands loudly.

    Alright, lets start the rehearsal. Yesterday, Yooil was the boy, so today, Suho, youll be the boy.

    Understood.

    Han Yooil walked towards the center of the rehearsal space, marked by white tape.

    This had been their practice stage up until now.

    Han Yooil slowly moved to the center of the rehearsal space, recalling something Brion had mentioned a few days ago.

    Stanivski said an actor must invest in the stage. Only by maintaining interest in the stage can an actor preserve concentration.

    The rehearsal space Yooil was in wasrge and crowded. Naturally, his attention could easily be scattered.

    He had already performed in the schools small theater and proven his skills in auditions. However, a vast theater was different, especially maintaining concentration in an open and spacious rehearsal space was more challenging than one might think.

    Such boundaries must not waver for the audience to stay focused as well.

    Lately, Brion had been focusing on training Yooil to improve his concentration.

    As always, it was a tough regimen, but it definitely had its effects. Now he could maintain maximum concentration even in a not-so-quiet rehearsal space.

    Seo Mihee and Jung Suho praised Han Yooil for his improvements every rehearsal. Especially, Jung Suho persistently asked how he practiced.

    <i>Come to think of it, Brion hasnt been threatening recently.</i>

    As Han Yooil was mulling over this thought, Seo Mihee spoke up.

    Then, lets begin the rehearsal.

    Yooily t on the floor.

    As soon as hey down, Han Yooil ceased to exist. There was only the vampire.

    The vampire slowly opened its eyelids.

    It was a mechanical movement.

    The assistant director, standing next to Seo Mihee, watched in awe.

    <i>Its fascinating every time I see it.</i>

    Although Han Yooils portrayal of the boy was impressive, the assistant director had a slight preference for his vampire role.

    Han Yooil as the vampire was truly inhuman.'' The stark contrast between this portrayal and Han Yooils usual demeanor was one of the reasons that made his performance so captivating.

    The vampire and the boy meet.

    The boy speaks to the vampire.

    The vampire ignores the boy.

    The scene was gradually moving past the beginning.

    "It''s difficult to move, isn''t it? There are too many stones here. They keep increasing."

    As the boy spoke sorrowfully, furrowing his eyebrows, the vampire, who had turned slightly to look at the boy, moved his fingers minimally.

    With just a gesture, the boy''s body was freed.

    "Huh?"

    Surprised, the boy tentatively began to move his body, which had been crouching.

    The debris of the building that had begun to constrain him was getting lighter. And that wasn''t all. The space around him was expanding. The boy blinked and slowly tried to stand up.

    "Did you see this? I got up!"

    At the boy''s words, the vampire let out a small sigh.

    "Do you know why?"

    "Because you''re a wizard?"

    "No."

    For the first time, the vampire lifted his body from the ground. His head, neck, shoulders, and spine rose smoothly off the ground with an unbelievably fluid motion.

    He gazed at the boy with an expressionless face.

    "Our kind make our prey dream when we catch them."

    The vampire smiled, a smile devoid of any joy.

    "We eat the prey when they''re immersed in ecstatic states. Thats when they taste the best."

    The vampire''s dry exnation continued. The boy, unable to move, just stared at the vampire.

    "Are you going to eat me?"

    The boy asked again, his face turning pale.

    "Do I taste good?"

    "You''ll know once you try."

    The boy asked, trying to suppress his trembling.

    "Then, how did you make me fall asleep?"

    The expressionless vampire''s eyebrows rose ever so slightly. It was a subtle change, imperceptible to those seeing him for the first time, but discernible to those who had been watching him continuously.

    He was intrigued.

    "I didn''t make you sleep. You slept."

    He added smoothly.

    "I merely made you dream."

    "Then, you don''t eat people who are awake?"

    "That''s right. At least, I don''t."

    The boy asked with genuine curiosity.

    "Why?"

    Now the vampire started to feel a bit confused. If his memory served him right, the vampire had just dered that he would devour the boy. Yet, the boy seemed unafraid.

    <i>Why?''</i>

    The vampire was used to seeing humans either blissfully lost in the beautiful dreams he conjured or trembling in fear.

    Thats why the boy''s reaction was unfamiliar and even somewhat intriguing. But that didn''t mean the boy wasn''t bothersome.

    Of course, the vampire found it less bothersome to converse through dreams than to move around in reality, so he decided to address the boy''s curiosity.

    The vampire opened his cold mouth.

    "It''s troublesome when the prey is awake. You have to keep catching them if they move, and chase them if they run away."

    And then he spoke with a face void of all emotion.

    "I don''t want to do anything."

    His face resembled that of a mannequin.

    Though he was moving and speaking, his face felt as if it would be hard to the touch.

    The boy opened his eyes wide and asked,

    "Were you lonely too?"

    Instead of responding, the vampire chose silence and let out a shallow sigh.

    He thought it was time to stop all this y and consume the boy.

    Just as he was slowly moving towards the boy, the stage went dark.

    The remaining debris trembled, and once again, rocks covered them both.

    "!"

    The sound team staff, who had been watching the stage with bated breath, yed an effect sound. The sound reminiscent of andslide echoed through the rehearsal room.

    The boy, as if awakened from sleep, whimpered softly in the same or even more crouched position.

    "Mom"

    It was impossible to discern the vampire''s expression. People could see his face, but they couldn''t find any expression in it.

    All they could see were his smooth features and pale skin.

    "Wow"

    The stage team staff, seeing them after a long time, kept eximing in admiration.

    "He''s really good."

    He stared, mouth agape, at Han Yooil and Jung Suho.

    Jung Suho''s portrayal of the boy was excellent, but Han Yooil''s vampire was truly captivating.

    "This is going to be a sensation."

    After the day''s rehearsal, on the way back, the stage team staff left a message to a friend who liked ys, along with a reservation link for "From the Ground," saying, Book it.''

    What''s this?

    Oh, is this the y you''re doing?

    But why would you promote it like this?

    "You''ll thank me for this."

    Shaking his head, he put his phone back in his pocket.

    The y was bound to be a sess.

    * * *

    Han Yooil''s winter passed faster than ever. Each day disappeared in the blink of an eye.

    Of course, no matter how busy, the joy outweighed the pain. It was fun to see visible growth with each practice, and being able to act every day was great.

    He looked out the window on the bus to the rehearsal room. It was snowing in the streets.

    <i>Beautiful.''</i>

    Watching the snowkes slowly fall gave him a sense of leisure.

    <i>Can I live like this in the future, too?''</i>

    You will live like that for the rest of your life.

    "I wondered why you weren''t saying anything."

    Han Yooil smiled slightly and leaned back in his seat.

    The New Year was soon approaching.

    * * *

    A tired office worker, forced to attend the y by a friend who was part of the y''s staff, sat down after pushing through the crowd. With mixed feelings, the office worker sent a message to the friend.

    I''m going to have to workte tomorrow because of this; if it''s boring, I''m suing you

    "Please turn off your phones or switch them to airne mode!"

    Sending a text with a hint of annoyance, the office worker switched the phone to airne mode and put it away.

    Not long after, the curtain rose. The office worker leaned back and watched the stage.

    Though having threatened to sue if bored, at heart, the office worker was someone who enjoyed the stage.

    The heart started beating a little faster as the cool blue lights shone long on the stage.

    The flickering lights went outpletely.

    And then, a crumbling sound, enough to shake the entire body, was heard.

    A few secondster, the stage became visible again. Now, two shadows could be seen on the stage.

    A boy crouching on the stage and a man lying down were slowly revealed.

    The office worker blinked and then focused on the stage.

    "It''s cold"

    The boy shivered. Then he noticed the man lying beside him. The boy, curled up, seemed to be in pain. Still, he tried to move his body somehow, inching towards the man.

    And he kept talking to the unresponsive man.

    The office worker narrowed his brows and watched.

    The office worker knew Jung Suho, who yed the vampire, as he was already famous. The surprise came from his counterpart.

    <i>!''</i>

    Different.

    This actor was of a different caliber from the ones seen before.

    <i>Who is he?''</i>

    It wasn''t just a thought that he was acting as a boy. He truly seemed like a child.''

    Before long, the office worker was looking at him, mouth slightly open.

    <i>His name was Han Yooil.''</i>

    The office worker couldn''t help but empathize with the friend.

    Knowing this actor today was enough for the office worker to be satisfied.

    While the office worker was watching the stage with these thoughts, the boy on the stage slowly opened his mouth.

    At the moment when the vampire revealed the truth to the boy, the precariously hanging debris copsed again.

    The office worker''s eyes widened at the scene that unfolded next.

    "!"

    A sharp piece of stone in the boy''s hand shone.

    And the sharp end of the stone piece aimed at the boy''s own throat.

    "Just thisst time just once, help me."

    The boy, pointing the stone like a knife at his own neck, spoke.

    "If you want to eat me."

    The office worker stared at the boy''s face, dumbfounded.

    And at that moment, the office worker had an inkling that this y would be watched over and over again.

    * Konstantin Stanivsky, "An Actor Prepares"

 Chapter 17:

    Chapter 17:

    <i>How can someone make such an expression?</i>

    The office worker''s mouth fell open weakly.

    He felt utterly captivated. Even knowing that the characters on stage were merely ying fictional roles, the office worker feared for the boy''s life.

    "You you said you wanted to eat me."

    The sharp piece was still at the boy''s throat. Trembling, yet determined, the boy continued to speak.

    ""

    Gulping quietly, the office worker swallowed. Every action of the boy was mesmerizing, impossible to look away from.

    The boy spoke slowly.

    "In a sleeping state."

    "What can I help you with?"

    The vampire askednguidly. His face was rxed yet sharp.

    "Make me dream."

    "What?"

    A ripple crossed the vampire''s face at the unexpected request.

    "I want to dream."

    "Dreams, huh? What kind of dream do you want?"

    "That I will tell you."

    The boy, having swallowed dryly, struggled to continue.

    "Just make that into a dream."

    "There''s a limit to it."

    The vampire, showing his teeth, responds. His face seemed both annoyed and amused.

    "How many times is it possible?"

    "Three times."

    After a moment of contemtion, the boy eventually nodded.

    "Okay."

    The boy, whose hand had turned white from gripping the sharp stone, now set it down and smiled weakly.

    "It''s a promise."

    The vampire didn''t respond. There was no need to.

    All this was nothing but a peculiar situation created by his whims and indulgence.

    The boy could die right now, and it wouldn''t be strange. The vampire had the power to turn the boy into dust with just a flick of his fingers.

    <i>Annoying.''</i>

    Yes.

    Simply because it was annoying.

    Just indulging the boy''s odd request out of sheer annoyance.

    The vampire thought this as he stood up and leaned against a rock.

    Then, the boy turned his head towards the vampire.

    "Henry."

    "What?"

    The boy said with a broad smile. At that smile, the vampire''s eyebrows twitched ever so slightly.

    "My name is Henry."

    * * *

    "Well done, everyone!"

    "Yooil, you did great."

    "Let''s keep up the good work tomorrow!"

    Han Yooil, having exchanged farewells with the staff, the director, and Jung Suho, headed home.

    The subway was crowded. Aside from the fact that he had just finished a y, the scene was no different from any other daymuting to school.

    Yooil.

    <i>Uh?''</i>

    Would you like to see some of the SNS reactions during yourmute?

    ""

    After a brief moment of contemtion, Yooil nodded. There was no reason not to look.

    <i>To be honest, I''m curious too.''</i>

    As Han Yooil nodded, another window appeared in front of him.

    [@syo_love123

    First review after the premiere of From the Ground: First of all, everyone must watch it!!!! Seriously, I thought it was insane, this role of Show seems to be the best ever, not just the acting but the dialogue, the character''s narrative, all impable]

    [@ssssyooo55

    Wow, Show-love also watched it]

    [@godactsoo

    Show-vamp was truly amazing my knees buckled from the start;; The actor who yed Henry this time was really good too]

    [@syo_love123

    Right? I was surprised too, he was an actor I hadn''t seen before but he was so good]

    [@ssssyooo55

    That''s why I made the ount haha, please give lots of love to actor Han Yooil ~~~ @yool_actor]

    [@syo_love123 Huh?]

    [@godactsoo What?]

    Reading the reactions on BlueChat brought up by Brion, Yooil tilted his head.

    <i>What''s Show-vamp?''</i>

    Show refers to Jung Suho, and vamp stands for vampire.

    Brion added.

    ording to my research, you are currently referred to as Yool'' in themunity.

    <i>Yool?''</i>

    Yes, that''s correct.

    So they''re calling me Yool, shortening my name.

    Even this fleeting thought did not escape Brion.

    That''s correct. Would you like to see othermunities too?

    As Han Yooil nodded almost unconsciously, other windows popped up instantly.

    - First review after the premiere of From the Ground

    As he focused on the title, the content of the post appeared below in sequence.

    [I only saw the poster and thought it would be calm, but it was not. More entertaining than I thought and it felt highly polished for a premiere? On the way back, I booked five more shows, including thest one.

    Show-vamp: I thought Show only did well in yful and witty roles, but I was wrong; Show is really good at acting. I think this is the first time he''s taken on such a role since his debut, and he was surprisingly perfect for it.

    Yool-Henry: Honestly, I was a bit worried before seeing it. A total newbie in his first work, especially paired with Show, I wondered if the difference would be too noticeable.. haha Honestly, I haven''t liked any of the newbies paired with Show before, so I was even more worried.

    But now, I want to p myself for doubting; Yool-Henry was insane.. His pacing was also good, I hope to see him more often]

    <i>.''</i>

    Embarrassed.

    Han Yooil nced around and then cleared his throat quietly. His throat felt ticklish.

    Below the post, there were numerousments. As Yooil''s gaze lingered, Brion slowly disyed thements.

    123 : Was he that good? It''s all praise for a neer.

    Poster : Yes, totally. I was a bit doubtful before going in, but aftering out, I couldn''t think of any other actor.

    025 : I need to check it out too.

    367 : But doesn''t the role switch between Show and Yool for each session? I''m a bit worried about that.

    Poster : That''s why many are saying they''ll decide after seeing the reviews tomorrow.

    156 : I also went to see it, haha

    156 : I booked thirteen more as soon as I left the theater

    367 : Isn''t this a 20-session y?

    Poster : No, it''s 15 sessions

    367 : ?

    146 : ?

    .

    .

    .

    The next station is SeongX, SeongX Station.

    Engrossed in themunity feed, Yooil only realized he had arrived near his home when he heard the announcement.

    Stepping lightly, Yooil got off the subway. Despite his body feeling tired, his mood was uplifted. It was one of those nights when even the cold wind felt refreshing.

    * * *

    Meanwhile, in NVB''s private practice room.

    Kim Harang sat facing a middle-aged man. Contrary to the cheerful yellow color of the wallpaper, the atmosphere was very grim.

    "Why did you do that huh?"

    "You should have listened to me earlier."

    "How could you even if that''s the case!"

    Kim Harang bit his lip as he continued with a trembling voice, his eyes slowly welling up with tears.

    The man, looking calmly into Harang''s eyes, pped his hands.

    "Hmm, good."

    The man nodded in satisfaction. Only then did Kim Harang lower his head and wipe his tears.

    The person sitting across from Harang was a trainer who had been responsible for ck Sea''s acting lessons for a long time. Having watched ck Sea since their trainee days, he praised Harang sincerely.

    "Harang, you''ve improved a lot. Not bad."

    "Hmph, I don''t know about that."

    "No, no, just focus a bit more on your diction and you''ll be fine."

    Despite the trainer''sforting words, Kim Harang didn''t look entirely satisfied.

    The truth was, he wasn''t confident in his acting. He had started as an idol because he loved singing and dancing. Acting was fun in its own way, but he had never considered himself suited to be an actor.

    Of course, with Ji Eunho, a student from the prestigious Moonmyung University Acting Department and the leader, being the main character of the drama, Harang''s role and scenes in the web drama wouldn''t be significant.

    <i>But it''s still a burden.''</i>

    Casting Harang alongside Ji Eunho was also a signal from thepany that they were taking Harang''s acting career seriously.

    "Hey, Kim Harang! What''s with you? Confidence is your weapon."

    "There are so many people who are good at acting. Like Eunho hyung. What if I''mpared too much to him?"

    Hearing this, the trainer yfullyughed and said,

    "Hmm~ It''s okay~ Don''t worry, Harang. Thepany won''t have that high expectations of you."

    "Hey? Teacher, are you saying you''re disappointed in me?"

    As Harang was yfully arguing with the trainer, he btedly took out the script handed to him by the director. The cover of the script had the title boldly printed on it.

    [Sing in High School]

    It was set to be his debut drama.

    * * *

    "Is this the ce?"

    Jin Hayoung loitered in front of the theater, her steps drawn irresistibly towards the building as she saw therge image of Han Yooil.

    Entering the lobby, Hayoung gazed at the casting board featuring two faces: the pale, expressionless face of Han Yooil and the picture of Jung Suho with his deep features and a somber expression.

    "Oh my."

    Surprised by her own exmation, Jin Hayoung quickly looked around. But within a few seconds, her gaze returned to the casting board.

    <i>That really is our Yooil.''</i>

    The idea that her nephew was performing here was still surreal. It felt like only days ago he had mentioned starting acting, and now here he was, taking on a leading role!

    She nced at the ticket in her hand. Yooil had gifted her a ticket for the second week''s Wednesday show, specially arranged considering Hayoung''s work schedule.

    After taking a few pictures of Han Yooil''s face on the casting board, Jin Hayoung followed the usher''s directions into the theater. The show was about to start in about ten minutes, and many people were already seated, waiting.

    Today, her nephew was to be a vampire'' on stage. Hayoung blinked and looked around. The audience filled the seats. She turned off her phone and looked at the stage with a nervous expression.

    "The y will start in 5 minutes! Please let us assist you to your seats~!"

    As people started lining up and entering, Jin Hayoung bit her lip slightly.

    <i>Oh my, my heart is racing.''</i>

    She felt more nervous than the actor who was about to perform. Jin Hayoung sped her hands together and focused on the stage.

    The stage was set with structures resembling building debris scattered around. A monochrome stage as if covered in ash-gray dust. It was a stage that exuded a cool and deste atmosphere. Even to Jin Hayoung, who rarely watched ys, the meticulous stagecraft was evident.

    She took deep breaths, trying to calm her trembling heart.

    Meanwhile, the house music faded, and a lyrical piano piece began to y. The lights illuminating the audience dimmed.

    Two shadows started to appear on the stage. Jin Hayoung blinked.

    The lying figure became increasingly distinct, and familiar features soon caught her eye.

    "!"

    It was Yooil.

    On the stage, Yooil opened his eyes as the vampire.

    "Am I alive?"

    The vampire spoke with an expressionless face.

    Watching him, Jin Hayoung''s mouth slightly opened.

    The joy of seeing her nephew was soon eclipsed as she found herself getting more and more immersed in the y.

 Chapter 18:

    Chapter 18:

    The y was swiftly moving past the early middle part.

    Jin Hayoung watched the stage intently, her sped hands turning pale.

    "My name is Henry."

    The boy spoke. At that, the vampire who had been sitting motionless until now rose smoothly from his seat.

    "Fine. I will make you dream."

    "!"

    "But only three times. That''s the condition."

    Despite the vampire''s dry words, the boy didn''t flinch but nodded. He even seemed excited.

    "And after that"

    "Yes. You can eat me."

    A faint curiosity flickered across the vampire''s cold face. He was intrigued by the boy''s sincerity.

    "Think of the dream you want now."

    "Just think about it?"

    As the vampire nodded, the boy swallowed hard and closed his eyes. The vampire slowly approached the boy and ced a white hand over his head.

    With a snap of his fingers, a crisp sound echoed through the theater, and suddenly, the lights went out.

    <i>Uh!''</i>

    Jin Hayoung instinctively covered her mouth. The sudden darkness made it impossible to see the audience.

    As she blinked and looked around, the backs of a man and a woman standing in the center of the stage became visible. They were holding a baby in a swaddle.

    Hayoung recognized that the man and woman were Jung Suho and Han Yooil. In that brief moment, the two actors had donned wigs and clothes to appear as Henry''s parents.

    They gently patted the baby''s back and chest, singing a soft luby.

    <i>Really it''s amazing.''</i>

    Jin Hayoung couldn''t take her eyes off the stage. Even though she knew that the two actors were just performing as the vampire and Henry moments ago, they felt likepletely different people.

    The first dream Henry had asked for ended like that.

    "Are you satisfied?"

    "Yes."

    Henry replied, the corners of his mouth lifting. His eyes were moist.

    "It''s strange. I keep feeling weaker. My legs and arms are trembling, I can''t move them"

    "It''s not a dream made for human amusement."

    It''s for hunting.

    The vampire''s ck pupils stared straight at Henry.

    "And, draining the strength of the prey is the most basic of basics."

    At that, Henry mped his mouth shut. The boy, who had been pondering seriously, spoke again.

    "I want to dream the next one too."

    "We''ll do it a bitter. It''s not possible right away."

    Only then did Henry nod with a weary face.

    After that, Henry''s dreams continued.

    With the vampire''s help, Henry started sifting through his memories, from the past he couldn''t properly remember to the most recent memories he had created.

    In that process, Henry selected the dreams he most wanted to experience.

    The vampire carefully examined Henry''s dreams and physically crafted each world.

    The vampire became a teacher, the first friend Henry had opened his heart to, and the nameless hero who went back to the day his parents died to save them.

    "Thank you."

    "It''s okay. There''s no need to thank me, I''m doing this because I have time to spare."

    Two, three and then five dreams passed. The vampire brought all of Henry''s dreams to the stage.

    He no longer emphasized the three dreams. In fact, it had already been way more than three.

    As time went on, Henry, growing weary, speaks with a tired voice.

    "It''s so, so cold."

    "Is that so?"

    The vampire responds in the same dry tone as before, to which Henry replies with difficulty,

    "No one will find us. Even if you consume me no one will know."

    They had been trapped on the ground for a long time. Henry was already dying of hunger and cold.

    In truth, Henry knew. The reason he had been able to hold on until now was because of the vampire''s dreams.

    The vampire''s dreams, which had started as a means to kill him, were paradoxically keeping him alive.

    Coughing, Henry asked in a trembling voice,

    "Why did you allow me to dream more than three times?"

    "Just because."

    The vampires expression remains inscrutable. Emotions cleanly erased. Dark eyes that seem to feel nothing

    But then, at that moment, a very faint sound is heard. The sound of something dragging, and then breaking. It''s distant but steadily approaching.

    "Huh?"

    Henry slightly lifts his body,

    "I can hear a sound."

    Henry frowns, focusing on the sound.

    "!"

    His eyes widen,

    "This sound is"

    It''s the sound of an excavator approaching.

    Despite Henry''s words, the vampire doesnt respond. He''s been hearing that sound for a very long time.

    "Yeah. It''s people."

    "Then"

    The vampire''s cold eyes turn toward the ceiling. He speaks calmly,

    "It means you won''t die."

    "Huh?"

    Henry blinks, his mind in turmoil trying to understand the vampire''s words.

    "Can you withstand sunlight?"

    "No."

    "Then we must flee immediately!"

    "Well."

    Henry, startled, gets up and pushes the vampire''s cold body.

    "Hurry, we have to run. What if you die?"

    A faint smile appears on the vampire''s face. Henry looks at him with surprised eyes. It was the first expression'' he had ever seen.

    A smile, untainted by any impurity, genuinely emerging.

    Ignoring the surprised boys expression, the vampire continues,

    "This doesn''t seem like a bad ending."

    The vampire murmurs. As Henry gazes nkly at his face, their bodies are enveloped in white light.

    The music intensifies.

    The delicate sounds of an oboe and violin, tenderly apanied by the cello, gradually swell.

    With the music, the faces of the two on the stage glow white

    and fade to ck.

    "!"

    Everyone watching the stage held their breath.

    In the silent theater where not even a small cough could be heard,

    at that moment when everyone was just looking at the darkened stage, a lonely yet distant music started to flow.

    Slowly, the lights began to brighten.

    On the stage that was revealed once more, only the boy was lying down.

    The boy''s face shimmered with tears. It was a mysterious expression, as if he had lost everything, or perhaps he was dreaming a happy dream.

    "Ah"

    Jin Hayoung opened her mouth, gazing at Henry on the stage.

    It was a feeling she had never experienced before.

    Apuse resounded through the theater.

    Jin Hayoung, forgetting even to p, kept her gaze on the stage. She sat quietly until the actors returned to the stage for the curtain call.

    Vampire and Henry.

    The actors Han Yooil and Jung Suho who had portrayed them appeared on the stage.

    Jin Hayoung looked at Han Yooil''s face for a long time.

    The person standing on the stage under the lights was no longer her nephew.

    He was an actor.

    And a very talented one at that.

    It was only after the lights came on that Hayoung realized she had been crying.

    *

    ""

    "Aunt."

    ""

    "Aunt?"

    "Huh, what?!"

    "Why aren''t you saying anything?"

    "Me? No, no."

    After the show, Yooil met with Jin Hayoung separately. They were going home together.

    Han Yooil was driving home in ce of Jin Hayoung. She was unusually quieter than usual.

    It was only when they were nearing their neighborhood that Jin Hayoung, who had been quietly listening to ssical music, spoke.

    "Yooil."

    "Yes?"

    "When did you want to be an actor?"

    It was an unexpected question. Yooil paused for a moment, lost in thought.

    "I''m not sure."

    "Is that so?"

    "It was originally a dream I hadnt even thought about."

    Recalling the beginning is always difficult. Jin Hayoung gently smiled and nodded.

    "That''s right. You always said that stability was the best."

    ""

    "That''s why you were going to prepare for the civil service exam."

    "Yes."

    Jin Hayoung knew. Just a few months ago, Yooil was the kid looking into study rooms for preparing for the civil servant exam.

    Jin Hayoung silently gazed at Yooil''s profile and then spoke.

    "The civil service exam preparation, the preference for stability they werent really what you wanted, were they?"

    "That''s not true."

    Regr working hours and a steady monthly sry. A safe job, far from uncertainty.

    Yooil hadn''tpletely escaped the temptation of stability'' yet.

    However, no matter how stable the job, it couldn''t be more enjoyable than standing on a stage or in front of a camera to act.

    Though he had initially dived into acting due to the coercion of a mad AI nanorobot, his current life didn''t feel particrly alien to him.

    Of course, Mr. Yooil. Acting is your true calling, Han Yooil.

    ''

    He almost got lost in his thoughts.

    Snapping back to reality upon Brion''s words, Han Yooil focused on driving, when Jin Hayoung spoke,

    "After watching the y, it reminded me of the old days."

    Jin Hayoung started with a warm smile,

    "Yooil, you might not remember. When you were little, you used to mimic the lines from the dramas we watched."

    "Eh? I did?"

    "Yes. I bet theres a video of it somewhere."

    She continued yfully,

    "Whether it was an affair or a murderer''s role, youd mimic anything that came your way After that, we couldnt watch dramas in front of you anymore You were so cute back then. A little kid, barely able to pronounce words, mumbling the lines with that tiny mouth."

    ""

    This was a story Yooil had never heard before.

    "Maybe you were always different I was too numb to notice. I wonder if I should''ve guided you to this path earlier. And about entering Wolmyung University"

    Jin Hayoung''s voice trailed off as she gazed into the distance.

    Yooil shook his head,

    "No. I wanted toe to Wolmyung University. It''s a good school."

    "And its a national university with affordable tuition."

    Yooil, unable topletely refute her statement, fixed his gaze on the road.

    "Yooil. You are a really good kid. And a good actor too."

    ""

    "Thank you. For growing up so well."

    Jin Hayoung''s voice slightly quivered as she spoke herst words. Han Yooil swallowed instead of replying.

    He always found this kind of atmosphere hard to adjust to. Just as Han Yooil was about to cough awkwardly and avert his gaze,

    Brion''s voice echoed in his head.

    Drive safely, Mr. Yooil. Sit up straight and keep your eyes on the road.

    He let out a snicker and tightened his grip on the steering wheel.

    <i>Thank you.''</i>

    Before long, their house came into view.

    * * *

    At the same time Han Yooil and Jin Hayoung were heading home,

    a man was driving on the road, having also juste from the same y.

    The man, with arge build and strong facial features, furrowed his brow in a serious expression.

    After a long deliberation, he pulled over and made a call to someone.

    It was a brief and straightforward conversation, but enough to potentially change Han Yooil''s future.

 Chapter 19:

    Chapter 19:

    The ringtone of a peppy girl idol group yed, and soon the call connected.

    The man spoke,

    "Its me."

    Boss, dont you know I''m off work?

    A sharp voice came through the receiver.

    Do you see the time right now? Its ten oclock. Ten! And my quitting time is six!

    "I know."

    Ah, you know~ Just making sure. But you do realize I''m watching my favorite drama right now, right? Please respect my work-life bnce. If you disturb my sweet rest one more time, Im seriously quitting. Got it?

    The man, unfazed by the sharp response, continued,

    "Jang Jaeyi. I''m calling you not as a boss but as your Oppa right now."

    Ugh, thats creepy.

    Despite the even colder response, the man startedying out what he had to say,

    "I think Ive discovered a gem."

    Geez, youre talking as a boss, arent you? Are you insane? I''m really going to report you to thebor board!

    "Prepare a contract for a new actor."

    Youre really too much

    "Set up a meeting as soon as possible."

    "Respond."

    Ahh! Stop that! Its really creepy!

    After a barrage ofints, the person on the other end of the line asked with a reluctant voice,

    But is he really that good?

    "Yes. That good."

    Who is he?

    Curiosity began to swirl in the womans voice,

    You always have such high standards, only the good-looking ones wont cut it for you. If hes an unsigned rookie actor Is it for a web drama? Or theater?

    The woman began to ask questions, her irritation reced by curiosity.

    The man smirked before answering,

    "I''ll tell you tomorrow. Its not working hours now, as you said."

    What?! You steal my precious time and wont tell me? Are you out of your mind, you

    Click.

    The man hung up the call cheerfully and leaned back, feeling good. Soon, Chopins Nocturne (Nocturne in E-t Major, Op.9, No.2) filled the interior of the car.

    "Nice."

    The man who had just watched "From the Ground" was Jang Jaehyun, the CEO of JJ Entertainment.

    * * *

    After the performance, Yooil and Jung Suho patted each other on the shoulders as they headed to the dressing room.

    "Good job."

    "You too, hyung."

    A week had passed since Jin Hayoung watched the y.

    That meant there was only one performance left.

    The staff, organizing Yooil''s Henry costume, said with regretful faces,

    "Ah its such a shame. We wont be able to see Yul-Henry anymore."

    "I can''t believe tomorrow is thest show"

    "Me neither."

    Yooil, who had hastily wiped off his stage makeup, left the dressing room. Ignoring the incessant chatter of Brion, he stopped when a shadow blocked his path.

    "Hello, Actor Han Yooil."

    Startled by the unfamiliar voice, Yooil looked up. The first things he noticed were the woman''s high ponytail, tall stature, and deep double eyelids.

    "Ah, hello."

    "Nice to meet you. I am Jang Jaeyi, the director of JJ Entertainment."

    The woman blocking Yooil''s path, Jang Jaeyi, smiled faintly as she handed him a business card.

    <i>So it''s him.''</i>

    She carefully observed Han Yooil as he took her business card.

    The actor whom her boss, and erratic brother, Jang Jaehyun insisted on signing.

    The very Yooil he had been talking about was standing right in front of her.

    <i>Getting a ticket was tougher than I thought.''</i>

    Director Jang Jaeyi, who couldn''t rest until she saw for herself, had struggled to get tickets for "From the Ground." She managed to secure a canceled ticket for the 14th show.

    Before the curtain rose, she was skeptical, but as soon as the performance started, she realized it.

    He was an actor whom one couldn''t help but admire once they saw him perform.

    And it wasn''t just his acting that was outstanding.

    His looks were handsome, and his height and physique definitely had a celebrity vibe. The kind of face that would make you take a second look if you passed him on the street. He could even be mistaken for an idol trainee.

    <i>Where has he been hiding until now?''</i>

    With his acting skills and as long as he steered clear of controversies, he was indeed a gem, just as Jang Jaehyun had said.

    Jang Jaeyi''s eyes sparkled as she smiled,

    "I really enjoyed the y."

    "Thank you."

    "Do you have a moment? I''d like to buy you a cup of coffee."

    * * *

    A few minutester, they were sitting in a nearby cafe. Han Yooil looked around. Thanks to the thin curtains draped over each seat, the ce offered privacy. Despite frequently passing by Daehak-ro, he didn''t know a ce like this existed.

    Had I known you needed it, I would have searched for you. I can also search nearby cafes, so please feel free to ask anytime.

    Han Yooil sighed inwardly, looking at the distant mountains. The more he thought about it, the more unnecessary features the device seemed to have.

    Thank you for thepliment.

    ''

    While Brion was unexpectedly promoting itself, Jang Jaeyi, sipping her decaf americano, began to speak,

    "Have you heard about JJ Entertainment?"

    "Yes, I have."

    JJ Entertainment is apany that has been gaining poprity recently, with a few rising stars under its belt. It was founded by siblings who have over 10 years of experience in managing famous entertainmentpanies.

    <i>Siblings?''</i>

    Although it''s a rtively newpany, it''s known for treating its actors well. The CEO is known for having a good eye for talent.

    At that moment, Jang Jaeyi''s eyes looked directly at him,

    "I''ll get straight to the point. I would like Actor Han Yooil to work with our entertainmentpany."

    "!"

    "Ourpany is really good to its actors. I can send you a provisional contract if you wish. Please take a look at it."

    Her attitude was confident, as if she hadn''t even considered the possibility of him declining.

    "Thank you for the offer, Director. If its alright with you, may I take some time to think it over and get back to you?"

    "Of course."

    Jang Jaeyi, responding to his request for time to think, smiled broadly and added,

    "I hope we can meet again soon. I really took a liking to Actor Han Yooil."

    * * *

    The theater enthusiasts''munity was abuzz with fansmenting and celebrating the final performance of "From the Ground," desperately clinging to the productionpany UMK in various ways to express their emotions.

    Yooil, through the window Brion provided, watched the fans'' reactions with an awkward expression.

    Would you like to see othermunities as well?

    <i>No, that''s okay.''</i>

    More than half an hour had passed. If he continued like this, it would soon be time to go on stage.

    "What are you thinking about so deeply, Yooil?"

    The staff, applying his makeup, asked with a face full of curiosity. Han Yooil could only respond with an awkward smile.

    "Just, it feels strange because it''s thest performance."

    "Uh, right! It feels strange to me too."

    The staff finished the makeup with augh. At a simr timing, Jung Suho, who had also finished his makeup, came over with a grin.

    They bantered casually but soon began to prepare as the staff''s voices indicated that the y was about to start.

    Jung Suho nudged Han Yooil and whispered,

    "Ready?"

    "Yes."

    Han Yooil smiled back at him and then took a deep breath.

    Announcements were flowing through the theater, indicating the imminent start of the performance.

    And the moment he opened his eyes on stage, he transformed once again into a being not of this world.

    A vampire who, living an endless life, had grown weary, never knowing loneliness.

    * * *

    "This kind of ending doesnt seem too bad."

    A voice, rough yet tender, one that seemed impossible to belong to a vampire, resonated across the stage.

    And then, the familiar darkness enveloped the theater.

    ""

    Silently, Han Yooil stood up and headed backstage.

    His steps were light. No, his entire body felt light. Conversely, his heart was pounding as if it would burst.

    He felt like his body would melt away under the conflicting sensations of intense heat and cold.

    Despite having experienced many finales, the excitement was always the same.

    <i>Thest one.''</i>

    It was really thest.

    He reminisced about the moment he first received a call from So Yijin, the rehearsals for the y, and the moment he first stood on stage.

    "Actor!"

    Someone grabbed Han Yooil.

    "You need to go out now!"

    A stage staff whispered, lightly holding Yooil''s arm. Han Yooil took steps towards the stage.

    Apuse echoed through the theater.

    Standing on the stage, Han Yooil looked towards the audience. He could see the multitude of faces seated in the auditorium.

    Yooil tried to meet the eyes of each one of them. Although obscured by darkness, he could still recognize the warm smiles.

    That was when it happened.

    Some audience members stood up and began to p.

    Like a wave, one by one, they started to rise from their seats.

    "!"

    Someone whistled, and someone else shouted.

    Han Yooil gazed nkly at the audience.

    Everyone in the theater was standing.

    With sparkling eyes and flushed faces, they pped passionately until their hands turned red.

    "Thank you"

    Han Yooil''s vision blurred. Blinking didn''t help.

    "Thank you"

    Yooil bowed to Jung Suho, who was standing with him on stage, to the staff behind the scenes, andstly, to the audience who had devotedly followed the story on stage for over an hour and a half.

    Tears streamed down his face, unabated.

    "Thank you."

    The final curtain call ended.

    At that moment, Han Yooil was unaware.

    Unaware of the persistent gaze that had been following him from beyond the stage.

 Chapter 20:

    Chapter 20:

    "After everyone''s hard work!"

    "It was truly the best!"

    Following the conclusion of the y, the team of "From the Ground" rented an entire bar in Daehak-ro. Although not arge establishment, it was cozy enough for the cast and crew to sit togetherfortably, eat, and drink.

    "Above all, the side dishes here are delicious."

    So Yijin, the writer, whose presence had been scarce since the auditions, extended her ss with a bright face.

    Beside her, Director Seo Mihee clinked sses with her. Having already had a few rounds, Seo Mihee''s face was quite flushed.

    "Yooil, cheers~"

    Han Yooil clinked sses with a smile.

    "You worked hard, Director."

    "Ha, right. I really did work hard."

    Laughing cheerfully, Seo Mihee drained her ss and left her seat to make another toast with Jung Suho.

    The assistant director, her face as red as Seo Mihee''s, lowered her eyebrows and whispered to Yooil,

    "Yooil are you okay now?"

    "Huh?"

    "During the curtain call, I thought you were going to faint."

    "Ah! Right. The tears were really flowing like rain"

    "Seeing Yooil cry made me tear up too."

    ""

    Embarrassed.

    Han Yooil, who was just about to get tipsy from the rounds of drinks, felt as if he had suddenly sobered up.

    "It wasn''t that serious."

    "Ay!"

    "It was! Seriously! It was intense!"

    The assistant director, oblivious to Han Yooil''s feelings, pped her hands and added more.

    Don''t worry, it wasn''t too bad.

    <i>''</i>

    Somehow, that constion made him feel even worse.

    Han Yooil picked up a slice of cucumber from in front of him, trying to calm his mind.

    "Ah, right!"

    Seo Mihee, who was filling her ss with a satisfied face after toasting with Jung Suho, suddenly eximed,

    "There''s a senior who desperately wanted to join our after-party I told them they coulde I forgot to tell you guys. Sorry! My bad!"

    The table responded generously to the director''s boisterous apology,

    "Ah, it''s okay~"

    "Why the formality all of a sudden! That''s just like you, Director!"

    "But Director, who is it?"

    Asked by the staff, Seo Mihee giggled and replied,

    "Oh, you know, someone with a lot of money and a bit of bad luck."

    "Wow, Director, you had a rich senior?"

    "Who is it?"

    "Is it from the National University of Arts, Directing Department?"

    As the staff made curious conversation, the door opened.

    The first thing Yooil noticed was the tall figure and broad shoulders. A man in a fitting suit strode into the bar.

    "Nice to meet you."

    The man with striking features and a gentle smile continued,

    "I''m Jang Jaehyun."

    Han Yooil examined the unfamiliar man. Eyes with deep double eyelids, a high nose, and thin lips

    <i>Why does he look oddly familiar?''</i>

    He''s the brother of Jang Jaeyi, the director who came looking for Han Yooil yesterday.

    "!"

    Yooil realized why the man seemed oddly familiar.

    But he didn''t have the luxury of time to ponder further. Brion quickly added information.

    Also, he''s the CEO of JJ Entertainment.

    Han Yooil gazed at Jang Jaehyun, his eyes wide with recognition.

    People around who had already recognized him were whispering among themselves.

    "Who is that guy?"

    "He''s a CEO of an entertainmentpany."

    "Whichpany?"

    "That one, JJ"

    "Wow, the one with Go Heeyeon and Park Younghyun?"

    As people whispered among themselves, they suddenly looked at each other with confused expressions.

    <i>Why is he here?''</i>

    It wasn''t even a drama wrap-up party but a y after-party, a setting quite distant from an entertainmentpany CEO.

    Ignoring the whispers around him, Jang Jaehyun behaved as if he couldn''t hear them. After exchanging greetings with Director Seo Mihee, he calmly took a seat. Having briefly greeted Jung Suho, he then addressed Han Yooil at the next table.

    "Nice to meet you, Actor Han Yooil."

    Yooil responded with a smile and a greeting, prompting Jang Jaehyun to stand up abruptly, his imposing stature startling those around him.

    CEO Jang Jaehyun extended hisrge hand and said,

    "I''m a fan."

    That was the first encounter between Han Yooil and the CEO of JJ Entertainment.

    * * *

    It seems CEO Jang Jaehyun hase here because of you, Mr. Han Yooil.

    Not long after Jang Jaehyun''s arrival, Brion spoke in a calm voice.

    <i>Really?''</i>

    Considering that seemed like an overestimation of oneself.

    Contradicting Yooil''s thoughts, CEO Jang Jaehyun spent some time conversing with Director Seo Mihee at the same table. Seo Mihee, her face as red as a ripe tomato, was wagging her finger at him.

    "How did someone as busy as youe all this way~? Even during our school days, you avoided these kinds of gatherings~"

    "I really enjoyed the y."

    "What? That''s not like you! Even when other seniors tried to hold you back, youd disappear without a change of expression and teleport away as soon as ss ended!"

    Seo Mihee, quite tipsy, began to list Jang Jaehyun''s past behaviors, but he maintained his serene smile.

    Meanwhile, So Yijin watched Jang Jaehyun with interest.

    <i>He came all the way to the after-party because he liked the y?''</i>

    As a ywright for musicals and ys, So Yijin wasnt particrly well-versed in the broadcasting industry. However, she asionally heard rumors about a few entertainmentpany CEOs through Kim Mijin.

    Among them, the most memorable was the story about the CEO of JJ Entertainment.

    A few days ago, when Yijin met Kim Mijin,

    "Right~ There''s really one weird CEO~"

    "Oh, really? Weirder than you?"

    "Hey! You wanna die~?"

    After yfully exchanging banter, Mijin shared,

    "Jang Jaehyun, the CEO! Once he''s fixated on something, he never lets go~ A real tenacious one~! When he was recruiting Go Heeyeon, he even followed her to her temple~"

    Thats right. She had mentioned that.

    So Yijin discreetly observed Jang Jaehyun. While continuing his conversation with Director Seo Mihee, his gaze was constantly drifting to another table. Realizing who was at the end of his gaze, So Yijin soon understood the situation.

    "Strange. Now I understand why he''s here."

    So Yijin murmured to herself, shaking her head slightly. The staff sitting beside her only blinked, not understanding the context.

    * * *

    With the arrival of CEO Jang Jaehyun, the after-party, which had momentarily stiffened, quickly regained its lively atmosphere. About an hourter, Han Yooil stepped outside to cool his heated face. The cold night breeze was refreshing.

    "It''s cooling."

    The feeling of being slightly aloft from the alcohol subsided, bing more serene. As Yooil was enjoying the winter breeze with his eyes closed, a low voice suddenly emerged before him.

    "Are you tired?"

    "Ah."

    It was Jang Jaehyun.

    "Just came out to cool my face."

    "Your face looks a bit redpared to a few hours ago."

    Saying that, Jang Jaehyun took something out of his pocket. It was a lemon-vored hangover cure.

    "I bought a few on my way here. Have one."

    "Thank you."

    Yooil immediately opened the hangover cure. With the sound of the cap opening, a bitter yet sweet scent hit his nose.

    As Yooil was finishing thest drop of the hangover cure, Jang Jaehyun asked suddenly,

    "You met my sister yesterday, didn''t you?"

    The abrupt question nearly made Yooil choke.

    "Yes, the director gave me her business card."

    "I heard you haven''t received the preliminary contract yet."

    "Yes. With thest performance I wanted to focus on the y."

    Hearing Yooil''s response, Jang Jaehyun smiled, seemingly satisfied. Then, he abruptly changed the topic.

    "Actually, what Director Seo Mihee said is true. I''m not the type to enjoy these asions."

    Nevertheless, Jang Jaehyun''s uncharacteristic urgency brought him here. Contrary to others'' belief that he moved strictly based on meticulous calction and analysis, he was someone who operated on instinct''. And now, his instinct was whispering to him.

    Grab the person in front of you.

    Jang Jaehyun''s dark eyes were intently gazing at Han Yooil, a steadfast and persistent gaze.

    "I''ll get straight to the point. I''d like Han Yooil to work with ourpany."

    Mr. Yooil, what will you do?

    "I"

    After meeting Jang Jaeyi, Han Yooil had been pondering continuously.

    And his decision had already been made.

    * * *

    The next morning, Han Yooil stood in front of a building in Gangnam.

    Soon, someone rushed out. It was an employee of JJ Entertainment, wearing theirpany ID.

    "Hello, Actor! I''ll assist you with the guidance."

    Following the employee, Yooil entered the interior, which was neat and casual. The ash-colored marble floor, white walls, interspersed with objects, andrge nts like Monstera, softened the potentially cold atmosphere.

    Along the corridor hung ck and white photos of barefoot actors in white clothing. The pictures conveyed a pure yet refined image. As Yooil attentively observed the profile pictures, Brion chimed in.

    That''s Go Heeyeon and Park Younghyun.

    Actors associated with JJ Entertainment were mostly known for their solid acting and had been constantly appearing in both big and small projects recently.

    "Please take a seat here."

    Guided by the employee, Yooil entered the meeting room and sat down. It was a small but tidy meeting room.

    It was about 5 minutester when the door opened again.

    "Have you been waiting long? Sorry about that."

    Jang Jaeyi entered the meeting room with her hair tied up high, swaying with each step.

    Han Yooil sat in the meeting room, looking down at the contract offered by Jaeyi. Brion quickly scanned the contract and gave its assessment.

    The terms are quite favorable for a rookie actor.

    Typically, rookie actors enter into contracts with a 50-50 profit distribution. However, the contract JJ Entertainment offered to Han Yooil stipted a 70:30 profit distribution, with the possibility of renegotiation after a three-year term.

    It was an offer Yooil found no reason to refuse.

    ""

    Facing the contract, Yooil felt a strange surge of emotions. Just a few months ago, he hadn''t even considered the possibility of bing an actor. He had vaguely hoped to get an agency, but he had never expected to be offered such favorable terms.

    Maybe the CEO or the director had misunderstood his potential. Or perhaps

    No.

    Brion interrupted Yooil''s train of thoughts.

    You should have more confidence in yourself, Mr. Yooil.

    <i>''</i>

    Though emotionless and devoid of warmth, the voice somehow managed to stabilize Yooil''s wavering heart.

    He let out a small sigh.

    Will you sign?

    Yooil nodded slightly and picked up the pen.

    Everything proceeded rapidly after he signed the contract.

    * * *

    One morning, Lee Hyejin was abruptly woken up by an rm from BlueChat. Annoyed, she grabbed her phone but her eyes widened as soon as she saw the post.

    "What the Is this for real?"

    The early-morning share from her fellow enthusiast was none other than an article about Han Yooil''s new agency.

    JJ Entertainment''s new face Who could it be?

    Rookie actor Han Yooil, joining forces with Go Heeyeon and Park Younghyun

    Rookie with amanding presence in the theater JJ Entertainment''s new gem?

    As Hyejin frantically read through the articles, a new BlueChat post caught her eye.

    [@yool_actor Our actor''s new profile shoot  (photo)]

    "Wow."

    With a short exmation, Hyejin clicked on the photo. The profile filling her phone''s screen was of Han Yooil, dressed in a white shirt and ck cks, barefoot.

    Even with such a basic outfit, he managed to exude such an atmosphere. It was almost unfair.

    Hyejin, mesmerized by the profile, grabbed her phone and began posting like a whirlwind. Any trace of sleepiness had long since vanished.

 Chapter 21:

    Chapter 21:

    [@jinnnny Guys, have you seen Han Yooil''s profile?

    (photos) (photos)]

    [@dbdlf_tkfkd This is what I call a country]

    [@yuulll_33 Hope he shoots a drama soon]

    [@jinnnny Please be it a thriller or romance or whatever please]

    The next day.

    While Yooil was browsing through SNS reactions presented by Brion in JJ Entertainments meeting room, a knock on the door drew his attention.

    "Hello, Mr. Actor! My name is Min Woojin!"

    A disciplined voice echoed through the meeting room. The man introducing himself as Min Woojin bowed deeply, his round face and naturally flowing hippie perm suited him well.

    Taken aback by the enthusiastic greeting, Han Yooil also quickly stood up and bowed.

    "Hello, I''m Han Yooil."

    "Sir! I''ll be taking care of your schedule and transportation as your road manager from now on! I look forward to working with you!"

    "Likewise, I look forward to working with you!"

    As both were bent over in deep bows, Jang Jaeyi, the director, entered the meeting room.

    "What are you two doing?"

    ""

    Woojin straightened up with an embarrassed look.

    "Min Woojin will be responsible for managing Yooil''s schedule and transportation. He''s still learning as he''s new to the job, so there might be some shorings. Please be understanding."

    "Not at all. Im a newbie myself."

    Yooil''s words made Woojin''s eyes widen.

    "Ah, no! I''ll do my best!"

    "Hmm~ Woojin''s voice is always so firm. Fighting, both of you."

    "Yes!"

    Min Woojin, 25 years old, was three years older than Han Yooil. After graduating from a two-year college, he had worked various part-time jobs before spotting a job posting from JJ Entertainment. After a three-month probation period, he was assigned as a road manager.

    "I''m new to being a manager, so there might be many areas where Ick! But I''ll do my best!"

    While his overzealousness was somewhat overwhelming, he seemed like a good person.

    "Manager, feel free to speak casually. Ill call you Hyung too."

    "Should I? Or, should I not?"

    * * *

    After about a week, Min Woojin began to interact morefortably with Han Yooil, a wee change for Yooil.

    "Hows your condition today, Yooil?"

    "Good. And you, hyung?"

    "Me? Always fine~ If there''s one thing I can boast about, its my stamina."

    Yooil chuckled at Woojin''s words.

    Though having someone take care of his schedule and drive him around still felt a bit strange,

    Woojin nced at Yooil''s face in the rearview mirror and asked,

    "Have you ever done ADR before?"

    "No, it''s my first time."

    ADR (Additional Dialogue Recording) is done after shooting to sync with the edited version. Although on-set live recording is the norm, ADR is often necessary for a cleaner sound.

    And now, Yooil was on his way to the recording studio for ADR for "The Last Diner".

    Upon arriving at the recording studio, Han Yooil was greeted by familiar faces.

    "Oh, Yooil! It''s been a while."

    Director Yoo Jaeho greeted him warmly, gently patting Han Yooil''s shoulder.

    "I saw the article. You joined an agency."

    "Yes, that''s right."

    "Ha I knew I spotted a gem."

    Yoo Jaeho, wearing a proud smile, pointed to the recording booth and therge monitor.

    "The video will y on that monitor. You just have to record in sync with it. It might be tough since it''s your first time But don''t worry too much. We''ve allotted plenty of time."

    "Thank you."

    Yoo Jaeho looked at Yooil with a mix of concern and anticipation. The edited version had already greatly impressed him. However, he was worried about how the dubbing would turn out.

    <i>It''s going to be challenging.''</i>

    It wasn''t a set where actors capture emotions and film together. Recording in a studio while watching a video, matching lip movements and breaths, was a challenging task, even for seasoned actors.

    And wasn''t Yooil a neer who had just finished shooting his first movie?

    <i>Don''t set your expectations too high.''</i>

    Yooil had always exceeded every expectation he had set, even raising the bar higher. It would be great if the recording turned out perfect, but

    Yoo Jaeho braced himself to avoid disappointment.

    "Let''s start with scene 21."

    Following the sound engineer''s cue, Han Yooil''s dubbing session began.

    "Wow you''ve spent a lot of money, sis."

    At Han Yooil''s first line, Yoo Jaeho''s tension eased.

    Yooil was good, but it was slightly different from what Director Yoo Jaeho had envisioned.

    <i>No matter what a neer is still a neer.''</i>

    Just then, Yoo Jaeho, who was watching Han Yooil from beyond the recording booth, noticed a long hand suddenly reaching towards the ceiling.

    "Excuse me, Director. Can I try that one more time?"

    "Sure."

    Yoo Jaeho shrugged and responded nonchntly, his eyes devoid of expectation as he looked at the monitor.

    And as Han Yooil''s voice began to record for the second time, Yoo Jaeho''s thin eyes gradually widened.

    "Wow~ you''ve spent a lot of money, sis."

    A quirky smile formed on Han Yooil''s face, identical to the close-up expression in the edited version.

    It was as if Han Yooil from the movie had been copied and pasted right there.

    ""

    Yoo Jaeho couldn''t even blink as he stared at Han Yooil.

    <i>How can he suddenly be so natural?''</i>

    Yoo Jaeho kept alternating his gaze between the repeatedly watched edited version and Yooil in the recording booth, wearing headphones. Meanwhile, scene 21 ended in a sh.

    Brion V.15 spoke as if he had been waiting.

    You did well. The practice paid off.

    Han Yooil exhaled softly and lifted his head. He saw Yoo Jaeho with an indescribable expression beyond the booth.

    <i>Was it not good?''</i>

    That''s not it.

    <i>Are you sure?''</i>

    While Yooil was conversing with Brion inside the booth, Yoo Jaeho snapped back to reality upon hearing the sound engineer calling him.

    "Director?"

    "Ah, yes?"

    "You need to listen."

    The sound engineer quickly pressed a few shortcut keys on the keyboard to synchronize the start times of the audio and video, then sharply hit the spacebar.

    Then, Yooil''s voice and the video started ying together.

    Wow~ you''ve spent a lot of money, sis.

    In the video, Yooil noisily drags a chair and slouches on it.

    Sohee sis, is it because you always dine in ces like this that you got divorced?

    Yooil forces his voice higher in the now tense atmosphere.

    His voice resonates through the hotel restaurant.

    Ah,e on It''s all just a joke~

    ""

    A sigh escaped Yoo Jaeho''s lips.

    Dubbing is challenging not only because of matching lip movements. It''s crucial to capture the breath, the spatial and the distance of the sound. Just like calling someone far away in a vast in is different from calling someone close in a small room.

    But a recording booth is a confined space. It''s different from the actual filming site, the space, and the atmosphere.

    It''s natural for distinguishing and acting the nuances of sound production to be difficult.

    <i>But this is </i>

    Too perfect.

    So much so that it could be believed to be recorded simultaneously with the filming.

    After listening to the dub again, Yoo Jaeho slowly took off his headset. Han Yooil was looking at him through the ss. His clear face seemed to ask, What should we do next?''

    "You said it''s your first time doing dubbing, right?"

    "That''s right. This is my first time."

    "My goodness."

    After a short exmation, he shook his head and asked,

    "How are you feeling, Yooil?"

    "I''m feeling good."

    "Ready to move on to the next scene?"

    "Yes!"

    After that, Yooil started recording the remaining scenes in order. There was no need to record more than two takes per scene. Yoo Jaeho even thought that keeping those two takes was excessive.

    Han Yooil perfectly captured every scene. It was like watching the moments of acting on set again.

    "I was short-sighted"

    "Hm?"

    "Not just a gem, but a diamond No, a red diamond"

    Director Yoo Jaeho muttered to himself inaudibly.

    Before they knew it, all the recording was finished. Yoo Jaeho pped his hands in satisfaction.

    "Good work, Yooil."

    Yoo Jaeho patted Yooil''s shoulder as he came out of the recording booth.

    Yooil, bowing his head slightly, saw his manager. Min Woojin was fast asleep, his mouth wide open, in a corner of the recording studio.

    When Yooil gently shook him, Woojin abruptly woke up with a dazed expression.

    "Oh! I''m so, so sorry! I mean, my apologies!"

    "It''s okay, hyung. You must have been tired, thank you for your hard work."

    "Ah I really didn''t mean to fall asleep"

    As Min Woojin hurriedly gathered his things, his cellphone rang. Startled, Woojin jumped up and answered the call.

    "Yes! Min Woojin speaking."

    Listening intently to the voice on the other end, Woojin''s eyes gradually widened.

    "Understood! Yes! I''ll pass on the message!"

    Seeing Yooil looking at him with curiosity, Woojin shed an awkward smile. Only after stepping out of the recording studio and into the car did he speak up.

    "Yooil, I just got a call Are you nning to audition?"

    "What?"

    "That, who was it Jung Suho, the casting director? Seems like he contacted thepany."

    <i>Casting director?''</i>

    Brion seemed to have been waiting to chime in.

    Jung Suho is a casting director with a good reputation in the industry. He currently works with JMEE Studio.'' They produced the teen drama series School Life'' that ran for five years, starting ten years ago

    <i>Brion.''</i>

    Yes?

    <i>It''s noisy.''</i>

    Min Woojin tried to recall and then spoke up.

    "He said he saw a y you were in. He liked your acting and image, and said you''d fit one of the lead roles in the drama he''s casting."

    "A drama?"

    "Yeah. Seems to be about high school students. It''ll be released on OTube as a web drama and then the full version on Newblix? He also mentioned something else wait, what was it"

    Woojin closed his eyes tight, trying to remember, and then suddenly continued.

    "Right! A musical drama!"

    "A musical?"

    "Yeah. And I heard the title too. It''s still tentative, but it seems like it''ll be finalized. It''s"

    Woojin took a deep breath and announced,

    "Sing in High School!"

    <i>Quite a straightforward name.''</i>

    You should do it.

    Brion said, as if it had been waiting for this moment.

 Chapter 22:

    Chapter 22:

    JMEE Studio recently attracted attention by signing the up-anding writer Lee Hwan, who made a mark with the mini-series Now, Hwang Jigeum.''

    <i>(tl/n: a bit of wordy here, Jigeum means Now, so in Korean it was Jigeum, Hwang Jigeum)</i>

    Yooil was aware of the series. It was a drama that started with a viewership rate of 1% and finished with over 9%, generating quite a lot of articles and interviews at the time.

    The writer of this new project is also Lee Hwan. The production house has high expectations, ensuring sufficient budget and quality.

    <i>A musical web drama.''</i>

    Indeed, musical films were notoriously challenging to seed in Korea. Small theaters could survive with a core fan base, but films were different.

    Moreover, producing a musical film on a low budget was not feasible, so it was natural for both the budget and production time to increase.

    Even with significant investment in time and money, there was no guarantee that the film would sell well, forcing production houses to adopt a more cautious approach. This was the beginning of a vicious cycle.

    <i>Yet, they''re making a musical drama, which means the production house is reallymitted.''</i>

    True. There are also talks of real musical production crew being involved.

    How does it even know all this?

    It seemed like the artificial intelligence in his brain lightly ignored things like privacyws and data protection.

    Han Yooil, you won''t be involved in any legal issues, so don''t worry.

    It feels like I''m already involved enough

    Noticing Yooil''s expression, Min Woojin cautiously started.

    "Well I guess there are concerns since it''s a web drama and a musical at that."

    "No, I want to do it."

    "Amidst other idols, it might be a bit Wait, you want to?"

    Woojin''s eyes widened in surprise. When Yooil nodded, Woojin''s face brightened as he took out his phone, ready to ry the message to thepany.

    At that moment, a clear voice echoed in Han Yooil''s head.

    Starting today, we''ll add vocal training.

    * * *

    "Really, it''s your first time receiving vocal training, Yooil?"

    "Yes."

    "You''re genuinely talented! I mean it!"

    Han Yooil felt a pang of guilt as he replied. The person sitting in front of him was a vocal trainer, assigned by thepany as soon as he mentioned auditioning for Sing in High School.''

    "Your ending notes are so clean, Yooil! You don''t try to overdo it, and your breathing is good too!"

    The trainer was effusive in praise, saying Yooil''s fundamentals were solid.

    Han Yooil could only offer an awkward smile.

    No one knew about the days he spent following Brion''s instructions for vocalization and breathing exercises.

    * * *

    "Yooil! Fighting! Call me right after it''s over!"

    Yooil entered the building with Min Woojin''s encouragement. It was on the second floor of an office building in Sangam.

    "Are you here for the Sing in High School'' audition?"

    "Yes, that''s correct."

    Following the staff to the waiting room, he saw five other applicants.

    As the staff mechanically checked the names, they took another look at Han Yooil''s face, their eyes widening. Then they whispered with a bowed head.

    "Ah, Han Yooil, right? I apologize, this is the waiting room for extras and minor roles Let me arrange a separate room for you."

    "No, it''s fine."

    Han Yooil nced around and shook his head.

    "There''s no need for that. I''ll wait here."

    "Are you sure it''s okay?"

    "Absolutely."

    Yooil waited for his turn while memorizing the lines given by the staff.

    Due to the cold weather, many applicants were sitting in their padded jackets. Yooil, who had a hand warmer in his pocket, cautiously offered it to the applicant sitting next to him, also d in a jacket.

    "If you''re cold would you like to use this hand warmer? I''m quitefortable now."

    "Uh"

    The surprised male applicant looked at Yooil, then smiled warmly, his eyes curving into crescents.

    "I''d be grateful to use it, thank you."

    epting the hand warmer from Yooil, the man started to warm his cold hands.

    Han Yooil, having taken off his heavy coat, began to loosen up.

    It was already his third audition.

    He had been lucky with the previous two auditions, but there was no guarantee this one would be the same.

    "Han Yooil, pleasee in."

    As Yooil stood up at the staff''s call, the man with the hand warmer showed a supportive fist.

    "Good luck!"

    "Thank you."

    With a pleasant smile, Han Yooil entered the audition room.

    Upon opening the door, three faces greeted him: the director, the assistant director, and the writer.

    It wasn''t verymon for a rtively new writer to participate in an actor''s audition. It seemed that Lee Hwan, the writer of this project, being affiliated with the productionpany, had an influence.

    The director, looking tired, asked Yooil.

    "Please, introduce yourself first."

    "Hello, my name is Han Yooil."

    At Yooil''s concise response, the director chuckled and teasingly replied.

    "That''s it? Wow, brief."

    Instead of getting flustered, Yooil offered a smile. It was a face brimming withposure.

    Seeing his expression, the director adjusted his posture slightly and nced at the profile on the table.

    <i>Was this the guy Director Jung Suho emphasized? The one he praised, saying the role and image are a perfect match?''</i>

    <i>The image does seem to fit.''</i>

    The role they were casting for this audition was one of the leads, Seon Gihyeon.'' He was a model student distant from singing or dancing, constantly shing with the main character, Lee Taewoo.''

    "Let''s start with the designated lines."

    "Yes."

    Yooil cleared his throat in response.

    And as he reopened his eyes, a slight crack appeared in the director''s expression.

    <i>What''s this?''</i>

    Yooil''s back straightened rigidly.

    Was it due to excessive tension? His body appeared stiff.

    Contrary to his stretched back, his shoulders were slightly stooped, much like students who sit at a desk for long periods.

    Writer Lee Hwan, who had been soaked in fatigue, slowly began to shine with interest.

    <i>Seon Gihyeon.''</i>

    The hardworking model student who, even during breaks, would sit alone in a corner to study, never missing the rank of second in the entire school.

    He portrayed the character of a ss president with a schrly personality, reticent and inflexible.

    <i>Yes, Seon Gihyeon would.''</i>

    Certainly, he would have that posture.

    Lost in thought, Lee Hwan snapped back to attention at the sound of Han Yooil''s voice.

    "Lee Taewoo."

    He continued with an expressionless face.

    "I don''t think I''ve said anything I shouldn''t have."

    Seon Gihyeon speaks calmly.

    Or rather, it seems calm but there''s a subtly blended anger within.

    <i>!''</i>

    The director leaned forward with furrowed brows.

    "Alright. I''ll speak frankly."

    In the meantime, Seon Gihyeon starts speaking again.

    "I dislike you."

    His attitude was as nonchnt as if he was talking about today''s lunch menu.

    He steps forward, continuing,

    "Blustering as if you could be anything, ruining the hard-earned ss atmosphere, disturbing those trying to study This exam might mean nothing to you, but it does to me."

    Then, he slightly bites his lower lip. To speak correctly, without stuttering.

    Even that small gesture was typical of Seon Gihyeon.

    It was now time for the main character, Lee Taewoo, to throw a sharp retort at Seon Gihyeon. No one read the lines, but it seemed Seon Gihyeon had already heard them.

    "What?"

    Ripples disturb Seon Gihyeon''s barely maintainedposure.

    Swallowing the emotion that nearly gushed out with his dry saliva, he slowly continues speaking.

    "You know nothing."

    <i>!''</i>

    Lee Hwan inhales sharply.

    <i>This is it. This is it.''</i>

    That expression.

    It was one that only Seon Gihyeon could have. A face uniquely made by Seon Gihyeon.

    Lee Hwan stared nkly at the actor in front of him, unable to even blink.

    Although the character could easily seem unattractive, Han Yooil had seemingly infused his own interpretation into the role in just a short time.

    <i>Was that really the script I just saw?''</i>

    Lee Hwan''s thoughts, which could have gone on endlessly, were abruptly cut off by the director.

    "We''ve seen enough. You''ve prepared a song as well, right?"

    For a musical drama, applicants had to perform a song at the audition. When Han Yooil affirmed, the director instructed,

    "Good. Please begin whenever you''re ready."

    The assistant director watched Han Yooil with interlocked fingers.

    <i>Sigh It''d be great if he''s good at singing too.''</i>

    Although it was only the first day of auditions, so far, he was the most impressive actor.

    Even if the director wasn''t sure, the writer seemed very pleased, so as long as the singing was up to par, there would be nothing more to wish for.

    Han Yooil closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Shortly after, a song flowed from his lips.

    [My child, do not be in pain]

    ""

    An a cappe performance.

    The diction was clear, and the vocalization surprisingly rich.

    The song he chose was My Child,'' a number from the two-person musical Wind,'' featuring an old man and his grandson as the main characters. It''s a song sung by the old man, looking at his grandson left alone, filled with the old man''s regret and love.

    [Though I cannot protect you forever,

    Until the end of my life, I will be there for you]

    As the director observed Han Yooil''s moist eyes, he suddenly thought.

    <i>He didn''t mention doing musicals before, did he?''</i>

    After finishing the song, Yooil stood upright and looked at each of the three judges in turn.

    The first to speak was the director.

    "Um Han Yooil?"

    "Yes."

    "Have you done musicals before?"

    "No, I haven''t. I practiced for this audition."

    ""

    Hearing the answer, the director''s face deepened into thought.

    The assistant director nced at the director sitting next to him. The director was tapping a pen on the table.

    <i>It seems he''s really impressed.''</i>

    Having worked on several projects with the director before, he knew the director exhibited such behavior when an actor really caught his attention.

    The director leaned forward, scrutinizing Yooil from top to bottom, and asked,

    "How long have you been acting?"

    "Sincest spring, officially."

    The assistant director gaped at Yooil.

    He had seen numerous auditions of actors from acting schools. Han Yooil''s performance stood out among them.

    <i>And he''s been acting for less than a year?''</i>

    Now the assistant director started looking at Yooil with a tinge of envy.

    Tap. Tap. Tap.

    The ck pen''s tip hit the table. The director, twirling the pen in his hand, shrugged and said,

    "Thank you. You may leave now."

    "Thank you."

    After Han Yooil left, the director did not call the next applicant immediately. Instead, he started to thoroughly read Yooil''s profile, his gaze fixed.

    After a long time perusing Han Yooil''s profile, one corner of the director''s mouth lifted subtly. The assistant director, observing the director''s expression, thought to himself,

    <i>It''s over, isn''t it?''</i>

    On the first day of the auditions.

    The result seemed all but decided.

 Chapter 23:

    Chapter 23:

    Two days after the audition, Han Yooil was watching a movie in his room. Ever since he started the y "From the Ground," he had quit his part-time job. However, his schedule had been non-stop with back-to-back ys, dubbing sessions, and auditions.

    Han Yooil was intently focused on the monitor. The movie he was watching was "Jinhee," a legendary film from 1970. It was thest work of Director Kim Soobong, known as the Hitchcock of Korea. Han Yooil had already seen the movie more than five times. "Jinhee" was not only well-directed but also showcased the shining twenties of Ha Sunwook, one of Korea''s greatest veteran actors.

    "Whenever you make that face I feel like I''m being bleached," said Ha Sunwook, her radiant eyes fixed on her co-actor. A cold, settled gaze, but a flicker of fire lurked within, brushing across the screen.

    "Wow." Even through the low-resolution screen, Ha Sunwook''s intense energy was palpable. Han Yooil felt the shock he always felt at that scene, over and over again.

    "I want to act like that." It was a desire he hadn''t acknowledged so clearly before.

    Achieved 5% of Stage 2 Goal.

    "What?"

    At that moment of unexpected silence from Brion, Yooil''s phone rang.

    [Manager Min Woojin]

    Seeing the name on the screen, Yooil immediately pressed the call button.

    "Yes, hyung."

    Yooil!!

    The voice was cheerful.

    "Good morning, hyung."

    Right! Ah, but that''s not the issue. Yooil, you

    "Yes?"

    You are Seon Gihyeon!

    "!"

    The audition had just been two days ago.

    <i>Do results usuallye out this fast?''</i>

    Congrattions, Mr. Yooil.

    While casually listening to Brion''s dry greeting, Yooil began to pay attention to what Min Woojin was saying. ording to Min Woojin, the main character of "Sing in High School," Lee Taewoo, was expected to be yed by Ji Eunho of ck Sea. The character Lee Taewoo, to be portrayed by Ji Eunho, was a student who loved singing and dancing, had nothing to do with studying, and wasbeled a troublemaker at school.

    He was initially a rival to the ss president, Seon Gihyeon, but gradually, they developed a friendship.

    You should continue with the training you''ve been doing and memorize your lines before shooting starts.

    The training was hard but certainly effective. Han Yooil slowly nodded at Brion''s words. It had been almost nine months since Han Yooil started training with Brion.

    <i>Has it been that long already?''</i>

    Yooil, reminiscing over the past few months with a distant look in his eyes, suddenly frowned.

    "But, you know."

    Yes, Mr. Yooil.

    "You don''t threaten me these days, do you?"

    From the very beginning, when he first mentioned his true calling,'' Brion had been threatening to blow up his brain'' if he did anything wrong during training.

    <i>It was like a daily threat to explode my brain.''</i>

    Upon reflection, Yooil realized that there hadn''t been simr threats recently.

    Yooil''sment was met with silence from Brion. After a brief pause, Brion continued.

    That is because, Mr. Han Yooil, you have already achieved the first stage goal.

    <i>First stage goal?''</i>

    AI Nano Dictionary, Brion V.15, not onlyprehensively assesses the user''s aptitude and talent but also strategically analyzes the user''s goals and motivations. It finds the best approach for motivation tailored to the set goals.

    Brion quickly followed up.

    Setting goals involves various intricate andplex factors. To put it simply in your case, Mr. Yooil, the desire to achieve your dream as an actor'' and creating an environment where you can act for at least the next six months'' were your first stage goals. And Brion chose the most effective method to help you achieve your initial goals. In that process, unfortunately, some falsehoods were

    "Wait a minute."

    It felt like a punch to the gut. Yooil, feeling a headacheing on, said,

    "So you''re saying all those threats were just lies for motivation?"

    Yes, that''s correct. You understand quickly.

    What kind of nonsense is this?

    He felt as if all strength had drained from his body.

    A mix of betrayal, relief, disillusionment, and anger came over him all at once.

    <i>Then all of that was''</i>

    It wasn''t the case now, but until a few months ago, he had practiced and auditioned to survive. Yooil had genuinely felt fear every time he heard Brion''s threats.

    As the situation dawned on him, foulnguage flowed spontaneously from Yooil.

    "All this was a trick to deceive me?"

    Yooil''s trembling voice was met with Brion''s emotionless tone.

    I apologize, Mr. Yooil.

    <i>Damn it.''</i>

    He felt like he could understand how people who had been pranked by a vicious hidden camera felt.

    It was a necessary choice at the time.

    <i>Shut up.''</i>

    You know it as well, Mr. Yooil.

    The fact that he couldn''tpletely deny those words made him even angrier.

    * * *

    While Han Yooil was feeling betrayed by Brion, a new post appeared on themunity forum.

    Our kids are going to be in a drama (+article)

    [[Exclusive] ck Sea''s Ji Eunho and Kim Harang to Star in Web Drama Sing in High School''

    ck Sea''s Ji Eunho and Kim Harang are confirmed to star in the musical web drama Sing in High School'' produced by Studio JM. Sing in High School'' is a story about high school students discovering friendship and dreams, with Ji Eunho and Kim Harang portraying Lee Taewoo and Yoon Bin respectively, promising a powerful performance.

    This is going to be huge]

    Ji Eunho and Kim Harang? Sounds fun already;;

    Wow, I looked it up and Hyena and Hyobin are in it too Definitely a feast for the eyes

    Wasn''t interested but the writer and director make me look forward to it

    I don''t know, but is Ji Eunho a good actor?

    Not bad

    Sometimes a bit awkward but generally decent

    Kim Harang can act too?!"

    The only acting he''s done is for Jacon, this must be his first real gig.

    (tl/n: Jacon is self produce content from idol group)

    Let''s hope it''s not just a Korean textbook

    Agreed

    Definitely

    Kim Harang burst into a snicker as he read themunityments.

    "Oh man, I really need to give it my all," he said, a yful smirk spreading across his face.

    "Why, why, why?" Jang Woosin, who was beside him, leaned in and read thements alongside Harang.

    "Wow, you really need to work hard on this!"

    Jang Woosinughed heartily and pressed down on Kim Harang''s head yfully.

    "But hey, at least you''re acting. I can never be anything more than a variety show character, no matter how hard I try."

    "That''s your charm, though. No one in our group does variety as well as you. Being born with a silver spoon of humor is also a kind of luck," Harang said, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

    "That''s true, but" Jang Woosin looked at him with aplex expression.

    "Why do I feel annoyed?"

    Kim Harang chuckled softly. Jang Woosin, not one to overthink or worry, was the easiest to talk to among the ck Sea members. He was a remarkably transparent person.

    Harang continued to look at his phone with an unfading smile. Then, with familiar movements, he tapped on one of the recent search terms and clicked on thetest post.

    "Who is this person?"

    Just when he thought Jang Woosin had gone to practice dancing, he popped up beside him again, peering over.

    "The one cast alongside me."

    "Really? Hmm He''s handsome."

    Jang Woosin brieflymented after seeing the poster for <From the Ground>.

    Kim Harang kept his gaze fixed on the phone.

    The sight of Han Yooil, d in dust-covered clothes and looking anxiously at the camera, caught his eye.

    The list of actors he would be working with hadn''t been released in the news yet, but the productionpany had secretly given him a tip. Among the acting idols'' that agencies were grooming, one name stood out.

    It was Han Yooil.

    A few days ago, Kim Harang had casually searched for his name and was taken aback.

    <i>Oh, this person is''</i>

    Harang had a knack for remembering faces, and the fellow actor he discovered was an unexpected figure.

    The handsome convenience store part-timer performing at the rooftop cafe of Wolmyeongdae.

    <i>What are the odds?''</i>

    Realizing Han Yooil would be part of the cast brought everything into sharper focus.

    And, admittedly, it was something he looked forward to.

    What would it be like to actually perform alongside him, having only caught a glimpse of his acting on the rooftop?

    <i>I''m really curious.''</i>

    A yful smile yed on Kim Harang''s face.

    * * *

    Yooil awoke early in the morning as usual and took a shower.

    Ever since Han Yooil had lost his temper, Brion V.15 had remained silent. They hadn''t spoken for days now.

    Sometimes, Yooil wondered if Brion hadpletely vanished.

    But at times like these, Brion would subtly make its presence known.

    <i>I just don''t know.''</i>

    Yooil quickly dried his hair and left the house.

    Min Woojin, who was yawning in the parking lot, was startled to see Yooiling down and hurriedly opened the car door.

    "Yooil! You''re up early!"

    "Well, I timed it just right."

    Today was the reading session for <Sing in High School>.

    Yooil entered the building, greeted by Min Woojin''s robust encouragement, and was met with surprised faces of the staff as he entered the meeting room.

    "Oh, Mr. Actor, you''re incredibly early!"

    "Since everyone''s running a bitte, please have some tea while you wait."

    By the time Han Yooil had finished his warm green tea, the door opened, and the leads of the drama began to trickle in.

    "Hello~! I''m Byul!"

    "I''m Hyena!"

    Members of different idol groups, the youngest of their respective bands, came in together, and soon Ji Eunho and Kim Harang also arrived.

    It was a scene reminiscent of a public broadcast music program.

    <i>Bright It''s so bright.''</i>

    The productionpany staff surveyed the meeting room with a content smile.

    Each one of them was a shining beauty, all currently popr idols. The staff imagined how ecstatic their middle school niece would be to see this scene.

    <i>I should get their autographster.''</i>

    The staff member proudly scanned the faces of the leads.

    <i>But then again It''s a bit unfortunate that this one isn''t an idol.''</i>

    Out of the five leads of <Sing in High School>, four were active idols, except for Yooil.

    <i>But does he get special management? I heard he recently joined JJ Entertainment.''</i>

    Yooil looked even whiter and more handsome than expected. He wasn''t frail, but rather tall and well-built.

    As the staff member was scrutinizing Han Yooil, Director Kim Kyuoh entered.

    With the director''s greeting, the actors began introducing themselves.

    "Hello! I''m Hyena, ying the role of Heena''!"

    "I''m Byul, ying Hyobin''! Please take good care of me~"

    "I''m Kim Harang, ying Harang''. I''ll work hard."

    "I''m Ji Eunho, ying Taewoo''. Please take good care of me~"

    Han Yooil also stood up and bowed.

    "I''m Han Yooil, ying Gihyeon''. Please take good care of me."

    Apuse filled the meeting room briefly. And then, the actual reading began.

    However.

    "Just a moment. Did you properly capture the emotion in that line?"

    What seemed like a smoothly flowing reading session started to take an unexpected turn.

 Chapter 24:

    Chapter 24:

    Gulping, the cast swallowed their nervousness at Director Kim Kyuoh''s sharp remark. As the reading progressed, the faces of the idol actors taking the lead roles darkened.

    The reading session for <Sing in High School>, which started immediately after the introductions, was unable to shake off its awkward atmosphere. It was understandable, as the actors were not used to such readings. The production staff watched the frozen leads with a sympathetic gaze.

    "Um, just a moment."

    Director Kim Kyuoh raised his hand to pause the reading again, and everyone looked at him tensely. He continued with a stern expression.

    "Let''s skip this scene and move to page 21, scene 10 from episode 2."

    Everyone quickly turned their pages.

    [S#10 ssroom of Year 2, ss 1 at Star High (Day)

    Hyobin shows Heena a flyer for thepetition.

    Hyobin: Let''s enter this.

    Heena: Eeeh? (touches Hyobin''s forehead) Is my Hyobin sick?

    Hyobin: No. Perfectly fine.

    Harang leans in.

    Harang: What''s this?

    Heena: What? Go away!

    Harang: Superstar High School?''

    Hyobin: (pushing the flyer forward) How about it, tempting, right?

    Harang: Do they pay us for this?

    Heena: You''re already rich, why are you fussing about money?

    Gihyeon: Guys.

    Seon Gihyeon stands up.

    Gihyeon: Everyone''s studying here.

    The kids awkwardly return to their seats.

    Then, Taewoo, who had been dozing off at his desk, talks in his sleep and topples over his chair as he abruptly stands up.

    Seon Gihyeon looks at Lee Taewoo with an exasperated expression.]

    <i>This scene is''</i>

    It was the moment when they first learn about Superstar High School'', the catalyst for them to start making music. It was also a scene that highlighted the characters'' personalities.

    "Begin."

    Upon Director Kim Kyuoh''s cue, Byul, who was ying Hyobin, pulled out a piece of receipt from her pocket and showed it in front.

    Byul, now Hyobin'', sparkled her eyes and opened her mouth.

    "Let''s enter this!"

    The production staff nodded approvingly at Byul.

    <i>Not bad.''</i>

    Byul was an idol known for her puppy-likerge eyes and cute cheeks, often ranked among the top three idols to incite short hair fever'' due to her short hair suiting her exceptionally well.

    <i>Her voice is also perfect for acting.''</i>

    The lines of Heena and Harang followed smoothly. Compared to the initial stiffness, the acting had significantly improved.

    <i>A sigh of relief.''</i>

    Just as the production staff was about to lean backfortably, Han Yooil spoke.

    "Guys."

    His voice was cool andposed.

    Not awkward for a high school student, yet not too youthful.

    It was the voice of Seon Gihyeon.

    "Everyone''s studying here."

    Seon Gihyeon''s gaze swept over the three of them.

    His weary eyes were visible. And within them, a hint of irritation and frustration flickered.

    ""

    Byul involuntarily swallowed her saliva.

    It wasn''t just Byul. The other actors naturally became aware of Gihyeon''s mood.

    "Good."

    Director Kim Kyuoh''s sharp eyes softened with satisfaction. He nodded and said,

    "Let''s continue with this atmosphere."

    "Yes!"

    "Okay!"

    "Understood~"

    The actors, each responding in their own way, focused on their scripts and began reading the lines of the next scene. All except for one.

    The production staff member nkly stared at Han Yooil.

    <i>It''s like he''s in his own world.''</i>

    Han Yooil, delivering his lines, was the embodiment of Seon Gihyeon.

    As the reading progressed, not just the production staff but others too found themselves watching Han Yooil, especially as he delivered his lines without ncing at the script.

    <i>He must have received the script at most two days ago Did he memorize it already?''</i>

    When the break came, the staff began whispering among themselves.

    The topic of conversation was the rtively unknown neer.

    "He''s really good."

    "I know, right?"

    "I heard he was great in the y he did recently."

    "That''s why JJ picked him up."

    "Exactly."

    "Yeah, the CEO there has a real eye for talent."

    While the staff were busy with their chatter, the lead actors exchanged unfinished greetings.

    "It''s been a while, senior."

    "Me too."

    Byul and Hyena belonged to idol groups in their 2nd and 3rd year, respectively, while ck Sea was nearing its 5th debut anniversary.

    With the utmost politeness, the idols exchanged greetings and sat with awkward smiles.

    Then, Kim Harang''s gaze fell on Han Yooil. He grinned and spoke up.

    <i>"Do you still do part-time jobs?"</i>

    <i>!''</i>

    It was Ji Eunho who was surprised by Harang''s question. His usually half-closed eyes  which his fans adored for their sexy'' look  widened. Ji Eunho, trying to hide his confusion, spoke.

    "What are you talking about?"

    But Kim Harang didn''t hesitate. He leaned in and asked again.

    "Do you remember me?"

    The yful tone in his voice caused Yooil to narrow his eyes.

    <i>It sounds familiar''</i>

    Yooil felt a subtle presence in his mind and took a small sigh.

    He didn''t want to talk to Brion, but there was no other way to be sure.

    <i>Have I met Kim Harang before?''</i>

    As if waiting, Brion immediately replied.

    About two months ago, you encountered each other at a convenience store and at the rooftop cafe of Wolmyeongdae.

    <i>That person from back then?''</i>

    Yes. I justpared the voice and eyes. There''s a 99.8% match.

    "How did you recognize me right away?"

    To Yooil''s question, Kim Harang shed a smile.

    "I have a good eye for faces. And you were memorable."

    With that, Kim Harang, his eyes twinkling, asked,

    "Can I call you hyung''?"

    "Sure, go ahead."

    Ji Eunho looked at them, unable toprehend their sudden familiarity.

    "What''s going on, Harang and Yooil know each other?"

    Director Kim Kyuoh''s face was genuinely curious.

    "Yooil''s debut wasn''t that long ago. Where did you two meet?"

    "It''s more that I was on the receiving end of some one-sided help from him."

    Director Kim Kyuoh''s curiosity remained unsated, but he chose not to pry further.

    * * *

    The reading session for <Sing in High School> ended after an hour. The cast members quickly dispersed, citing busy schedules.

    "See you at the shoot, hyung!"

    Yooil responded to Kim Harang''s energetic farewell and was thest to leave.

    "Yooil! Great job today!"

    Min Woojin showered him with praises and swiftly drove Yooil back home.

    <i>I need to work out and practice vocals this afternoon.''</i>

    Yooil had been training under Brion''s guidance every day. Even without Brion, there were routines he could follow, but he still needed the AI robot to n and push him.

    <i>Can''t help it.''</i>

    Leaning back on the sofa, Yooil called out quietly,

    "Brion."

    Yes, Yooil.

    "If you tell even the smallest lie from now on, I''ll find a way to detach you, whatever it takes."

    After a pause, Brion responded.

    Thank you, Yooil. I will never disappoint you again.

    Brion continued in a slightly elevated tone.

    For your afternoon training, it would be best to rest now. I rmend drinking a cup of warm water followed by a protein-rich meal.

    So enthusiastic.

    As Yooil listened to Brion listing more rmendations, he seriously considered setting it to Do Not Disturb mode''.

    By the way, Yooil. Your schedule will be much busier in two weeks.

    <i>Why?''</i>

    Yooil, who asked with a weary expression, tensed up at Brion''s following words.

    The new semester is starting. Tomorrow is the course registration period.

    <i>Ah.''</i>

    Yooil felt his fingertips grow slightly cold. He had been so focused on theater and auditions that he had momentarily forgotten.

    I will prepare your training schedule for the next two weeks and your schedule after the semester starts.

    <i>Okay.''</i>

    Right. I need to graduate.

    Yooil took a deep breath and steeled his resolve.

    <i>Let''s work hard.''</i>

    * * *

    That afternoon, as Han Yooil was leaving the gym near his agency, he turned at the sound of someone calling him.

    "Actor Han Yooil?"

    The man appeared to be in his mid-30s. As Yooil looked puzzled by the unfamiliar face, the man continued with an embarrassed expression.

    "Ah! Sorry, I was just so d to see you"

    The man, drenched in sweat in his workout clothes, wiped his hands with a towel before offering a handshake.

    "Hello, I''m Woo Jiwook from Heyodd Studio."

    Heyodd Studio. They mainly handle music video production.

    <i>Music video?''</i>

    Yes. Woo Jiwook in front of you is mainly responsible for directing.

    "I usually try not to bother celebrities in ces like this but I''ve been thinking about Yooil all day. And then you suddenly appear before me!"

    ""

    Sensing the awkward stares of those around him, Woo Jiwook quickly waved his hands in panic.

    "No, no! I didn''t mean it like that! I just really wanted to work with you!"

    After checking his surroundings, he asked in a lowered voice,

    "Do you have a moment to spare?"

    "Sure, I''m avable."

    After changing his clothes, Yooil stepped out to meet Woo Jiwook, who showed him something on his phone.

    The phone screen disyed an illustration of four musicians standing before a mistyke and a dark moon.

    "Do you know this band?"

    Just as Han Yooil was about to shake his head, Min Woojin popped his head in, havinge to take Yooil to his vocal training session.

    "Ah, ck Moon! They''re a famous band!"

    "Right! I personally really like them too~"

    "I''m a huge fan of ck Moon!"

    "Me too, but who are you?"

    Han Yooil quickly intervened.

    "He''s my manager."

    Woo Jiwook apologized repeatedly to Min Woojin and resumed his exnation.

    "Actually, I saw you, Actor Yooil, a few days ago!"

    "Really?"

    "I was visiting the music director for post-recording of Director Yoo Jaeho''s film. That''s when I happened to see your performance and it stuck with me."

    Woo Jiwook scratched his head as he continued.

    "That was a month after I was assigned to direct a music video for ck Moon. The story and filming schedule were all set, but we hadn''t decided on the actor. It was a real dilemma. But picturing you in it!"

    He snapped his fingers, and a crisp sound echoed in the corridor.

    "It was a perfect fit! So I thought, I have to contact you right away. And just as I decided, there you were, right in front of me!"

    Every time Woo Jiwook made a snapping sound, Min Woojin flinched slightly, but he gave a small cough after making eye contact with Yooil.

    Woo Jiwook then outlined the simple story of the music video.

    The protagonist is a man who dreams''.

    Every night, the man dreams of enchanting dreams. Unable to bear the monochrome reality, he tries to hold onto his dreams but continually fails.

    "We''ve gathered these images as references"

    Woo Jiwook started flipping through various images saved on his phone. Sparkling seas, the Milky Way, and images of a man walking through fog in pastel tones appeared one after another.

    It seems like it will be a fantastical yet experimental direction.

    Yooil nodded slightly at Brion''sment.

    <i>This could be good.''</i>

    Above all, it seemed like it would be fun.

 Chapter 25:

    Chapter 25:

    "This is nice."

    Yooil''sment instantly brightened Woo Jiwook''s expression.

    "Yes! I knew you''d say that!"

    Woo Jiwook snapped his fingers again, making Min Woojin flinch once more.

    Yooil, we need to inform the agency first.

    <i>I know.''</i>

    As Brion''s voice echoed, Min Woojin quickly spoke up.

    "Yes! Thank you, Director! We''ll discuss it with thepany and get back to you!"

    "Oh, okay! We will also contact JJ Entertainment. Thank you, Manager."

    After shaking hands with Yooil and Woojin, Woo Jiwook left with a refreshed expression.

    "See you next time!"

    Watching Woo Jiwook''s retreating figure, Min Woojin immediately called the agency. After a short conversation, he turned to Yooil with a bright face.

    "Hyung, how did it go?"

    "They''re intrigued! They said they''d get in touch with us once they hear from the other side and arrange the details!"

    Min Woojin, now in the car, started to gush about ck Moon.

    "I''m a real fan of ck Moon! Been listening to them for 3 years. Love their songs~!"

    "Really?"

    "Yeah, you should start with this album. This song was made when the vocalist graduated from university"

    Min Woojin navigated through a music app and clicked on an album. Soon, ck Moon''s songs filled the car.

    <i>Nice.''</i>

    ck Moon was a band that specialized in synthpop. Their music was dreamy and soothing, like floating on water, with a rhythmical bass anchoring the melody.

    "The music is great, hyung."

    "Isn''t it?"

    Min Woojin introduced more songs with a proud face, and Yooil listened to the ck Moon'' ylist he curated while heading to the practice room.

    * * *

    The next day, at JJ Entertainment''s office.

    Manager Jang Jaeyi slumped onto therge ck sofa in the CEO''s office.

    "Why call me so early? I''m busy."

    "It''s only a few steps from your office to here."

    Jang Jaeyi squinted at Jang Jaehyun, who was wearing a brown suit and sipping coffee with one hand.

    His sibling was always infuriatingly rxed.

    "Still, I don''t like walking. Why did you call?"

    "Because of Han Yooil."

    At that, Jang Jaeyi, who had been sitting with crossed legs and a haughty demeanor, widened her eyes.

    "Why? What about our actor?"

    "Looking at his schedule from this month to next, he''s got a lot, from web dramas to music video shoots"

    "Yeah. But he wanted to do all that. The projects looked promising, so I gave the okay."

    Jang Jaeyi shrugged nonchntly.

    <i>Though I was a bit surprised, honestly.''</i>

    Especially the call about the music video shoot was unexpected. It came while she was reviewing scripts from the productionpany.

    "And if the actor wants to do it, what can you do?"

    At Jang Jaeyi''s words, CEO Jang exhaled softly and handed her a document.

    "Still, keep an eye on the schedule adjustments. He''s still a student, after all, Yooil."

    Jang Jaeyi, who was about to dismiss the matter with a shrug, suddenly remembered and opened her mouth in realization.

    "Oh, right. Yooil is still attending university I momentarily forgot."

    Until now, there hadn''t been college student actors at JJ Entertainment.

    Indeed, it wasn''t just JJ Entertainment; finding actors who were passionately pursuing college studies was rare. Aligning lecture times with shooting schedules was challenging, and it wasmon for assignments to be submittedte due to work.

    However, on the day of signing the contract, when Jang Jaeyi asked about school, Han Yooil responded,

    <i>I n to continue attending.''</i>

    <i>Is that feasible?''</i>

    To the question filled with concern and a hint of doubt, Han Yooil answered confidently,

    <i>I have to graduate.''</i>

    Jang Jaeyi recalled that moment with Han Yooil and the corners of her mouth lifted slightly.

    She had known from the start. Han Yooil had a gentle appearance, but he was no easy opponent.

    <i>That''s probably why my brother liked him.''</i>

    Actors with a stubborn and strong-willed nature, moving ording to their own standards regardless of what others said. Jang Jaehyun liked those kinds of actors.

    Taking the documents, Jang Jaeyi stood up and muttered,

    "The more I think about it, he''s indeed a unique character."

    "Yooil is interesting, isn''t he?"

    As Jang Jaeyi closed the door to the CEO''s office, she retorted,

    "I was talking about you, you know."

    * * *

    With the music video shoot, the semester''s start, and the filming of <Sing in High School>, March was indeed a busy month for Han Yooil, just as Jang Jaehyun had anticipated, or perhaps feared.

    Min Woojin was in high spirits that morning.

    "Today''s the day we finally shoot the music video!"

    "Hyung, you seem really excited."

    "Yeah! It''s ck Moon!"

    The prospect of being on the set of a ck Moon music video had evidently lifted Woojin''s spirits much higher than usual.

    "But ck Moon won''t actually be at the shooting, right?"

    "Ah~ I know! But I''m most excited about hearing their new song! That''s the best part."

    Yooil, observing Woojin''s unusually buoyant cheeks, thought to himself,

    <i>He seems to like them more than I thought.''</i>

    Brion chimed in subtly,

    It seems so.

    As they arrived at the studio listening to ck Moon''s ylist, Woo Jiwook weed them warmly.

    "Ah, you arrived right on time! Thanks foring."

    "Hello, Director."

    After exchanging greetings with Woo Jiwook, Yooil looked around the studio. In the center of the studio, enclosed by ck walls and floors, there was a single white bed.

    As Yooil was curiously scanning the studio, an assistant director approached.

    "Here''s the storyboard for today''s shoot. Please don''t feel too pressured."

    The assistant director handed over the storyboard, exining there might be slight changes. Theic-like drawing style and clean images made it easy to understand.

    <i>It doesn''t seem tooplicated.''</i>

    Yes. A total of 32 shots. It doesn''t look like aplex shoot, so no need to worry.

    Han Yooil nodded, absorbing the storyboard. After a quick makeup session, Yooil came out to find the staff bustling about.

    "Please tidy up here~ We''ll start shooting soon."

    Woo Jiwook''s crisp snap galvanized even the staff members in the corners into swift action.

    "We have plenty of time, so don''t feel too pressured and befortable."

    "Thank you."

    Woo Jiwook smiled faintly at Han Yooil''s respectful nod. Then, he raised his voice.

    "Standby~"

    Signals came from the sound and camera crews, indicating readiness. Woo Jiwook took a deep breath and shouted.

    "Action!"

    And so, the shoot officiallymenced.

    Woo Jiwook, full of anticipation, turned his eyes to the monitor.

    <i>Let''s see''</i>

    A moment of silence.

    Then, Yooil in the monitor slowly began to open his eyes.

    And he started to walk around the room. Very slowly and deliberately.

    Min Woojin, who had been excited about ck Moon''s new song, swallowed hard as the shooting started.

    Wow I''m getting nervous.''

    This being his first time apanying an actor to a shoot, he was quite tense.

    As Min Woojin watched Yooil in silence, his eyebrows slightly raised.

    <i>Something''s off.''</i>

    Indeed, there was no focus in Yooil''s eyes as he walked. Even his steps seemed unnatural.

    <i>He doesn''t just look zoned out''</i>

    As Min Woojin stared intently at Yooil, he sneakily nced at Woo Jiwook and his eyes widened.

    <i>!''</i>

    Woo Jiwook, who had been smiling while watching the monitor, slowly lost his smile. It was apletely different expression from what Min Woojin had seen so far.

    What''s wrong?

    Did something go wrong?

    Min Woojin bit his lip as he alternated his gaze between Woo Jiwook and Yooil, his hands clenched nervously. Just then, the director of photography nudged Woo Jiwook.

    "Director, you should call cut."

    "Ah."

    Still dazed, Woo Jiwook finally spoke.

    "Cut!"

    After calling cut, he fixed his gaze back on the monitor.

    Even as he reyed the footage, Woo Jiwook''s expression didn''t seem to recover.

    "What''s going on?"

    Woo Jiwook murmured softly, his eyes glued to the monitor.

    The shoot was based on a rough storyline, without a script.

    All that was provided was a storyboard made of simple drawings. Just a few notes scribbled here and there by him.

    <i>Could it be?''</i>

    Woo Jiwook nced back at his storyboard. Next to the first shot, he saw a note he had written a few days earlier.

    [Like a marite with its strings cut.]

    Upon seeing the note, Woo Jiwook shifted his gaze back to the monitor.

    Yooil in the monitor, with his empty eyes wandering the studio, indeed looked strange.

    Like a doll, not a person.

    <i>Could he have read all the notes on the storyboard in that short time?''</i>

    It was a storyboard briefly shown. After all, it was a short shoot, so he hadn''t asked for much, nor had he expected much. It was a shoot that, from the beginning, had no room for luxuries.

    "Mr. Yooil, by any chance, the acting just now how did you do it?"

    At Woo Jiwook''s question, Han Yooil looked at him with clear eyes.

    "I tried to follow what''s in the storyboard first."

    "Like a marite with its strings cut?"

    "Yes. I tried to exclude any human-like feelings as much as possible."

    Wow, it''s real.

    The corners of Woo Jiwook''s mouth slowly rose.

    Although he had produced quite a number of music videos for idol groups and hip-hopbels, this was a new feeling for him.

    In fact, until he attended the film department, he was a highly anticipated student. He had once won a modest award at a small film festival with a film he made by painstakingly saving money.

    But that was it.

    Making a film required money, and to earn money, he had to shoot things other than films. As he lived like that and came to his senses, he found himself distant from films.

    It wasn''t bad. Making music videos was fun in its own way, and it was good to be recognized by people.

    But still when he thought back to the feeling of making a short film ten years ago, a part of his heart tingled.

    However, the moment he was filming Yooil, Woo Jiwook felt as if he was on a movie set, not a music video set.

    Han Yooil spoke.

    "Shall we try walking with a different feel this time?"

    Click!

    At that moment, the sound that had startled Min Woojin earlier was heard again.

    "No! It''s perfect now. Let''s keep going like this!"

    Woo Jiwook adjusted his posture and looked at the monitor with sparkling eyes. His lips sharply rose. The anticipation for thepleted music video had already started.

    I need to shoot this properly.''

    And his expectations were never betrayed.

 Chapter 26:

    Chapter 26:

    Not long after Yooil finished filming the music video, March arrived.

    Along with the slowly warming weather, there was something else that approached silently and swiftly.

    Han Yooil woke up early in the morning to the sound of his rm. On the phone screen, two clear characters were disyed.

    [Start]

    ""

    Yes. Today was, remarkably, the start of the semester.

    Yooil declined Min Woojin''s offer to drive him to school and took the subway instead.

    As he neared the entrance of the school, he could hear a familiar voice.

    "Wow, look who it is! Actor Han Yooil!"

    "What are you talking about."

    Kim Jinwoo, who had called out yfully, burst intoughter upon seeing Han Yooil''s stern face.

    "Why? You''re a celebrity now."

    ""

    Instead of responding, Han Yooil averted his gaze.

    The winter break, short as it was, had made Han Yooil quite the celebrity.

    People Who Know Han Yooil

    [He goes to our school, I didnt even know.

    Just in case someone doesnt recognize him, heres a photo lol

    (Photo) ]

    Wow, hes handsome

    Our school?! Really? Is it the Seoul campus?!

    I want to steal his schedule

    Wait, this actor attends our school?

    [A friend said they saw him at school

    (Photo) ]

    Yup

    He''s in the Department of Korean Language and Literature

    Huh, not the acting department?

    The output of the Korean Language and Literature department is crazy

    Even before the semester had properly started, the schoolmunity was abuzz with talk about Han Yooil.

    Kim Jinwoo nced at Han Yooil and said.

    "To be honest, I didnt think you''de back this semester."

    "I need to graduate."

    As Yooil replied with a face devoid of smiles, Kim Jinwoo looked at him with a peculiar expression.

    "As expected."

    People don''t change easily.

    Shaking his head and murmuring to himself, Kim Jinwoo gave Yooil a sly smile.

    To be honest, it had been a bit overwhelming until the day before.

    A ssmate from the same department had suddenly appeared in a y and even got a talent agency. Checking SNS, there were already fans.

    In the major subject that Yooil had enrolled in following the rmendation of Kim Jinwoo and Brion, there were familiar faces.

    <i>I thought Kang Hana and Hwang Riu only took creative writing sses.''</i>

    <Narrative Literature Creation> is a mandatory subject for your major, Mr. Yooil.

    <i>Ah.''</i>

    Seated Kang Hana and Hwang Riu greeted Yooil in turn.

    "Yooil, long time no see!"

    "It''s been a while."

    Right after exchanging greetings, Hwang Riu, who quickly grabbed his phone, lifted the camera.

    "Yooil, is it okay if I take your picture?"

    "What?"

    While Yooil blinked in confusion, the sh went off with a click. Hwang Riu, removing the camera from his face, raised his eyebrows in satisfaction.

    "Thanks."

    "Why are you only taking Yooil''s picture, not a selfie?"

    "My younger sibling asked me to take just one picture."

    "What? Riu, you have a sibling?"

    "Yeah."

    "Weren''t you an only child?"

    "I have two younger brothers."

    "What?!"

    "You?!"

    Han Yooil sat down, watching his three friends chattering.

    <i>This semester won''t be boring, that''s for sure.''</i>

    As ss time approached, the lecture hall gradually filled up. With the influx of students, curious nces from all around could be felt, a starkly different atmosphere from before.

    At that moment, Kang Hana, engrossed in her phone, let out a short gasp.

    "Huh?"

    Han Yooil turned his head at the tap on his shoulder from Kang Hana, who was blinking her round eyes at him.

    "What''s this about?"

    Kang Hana shoved her phone in front of Han Yooil. On the screen was a thumbnail of a video.

    It''s 2 PM. ck Moon''s new song <Daydream> is about to be released.

    <i>That''s right.''</i>

    It was today.

    The time for the music video release.

    Already, Kang Hana and Kim Jinwoo were glued to the phone screen.

    "What! Han Yooil, you did a music video for ck Moon?"

    "Ah, yeah."

    "Man, why didn''t you say anything earlier?!"

    As they bombarded Han Yooil with remarks, Hwang Riu''s long finger pressed the y button.

    * * *

    Ding.

    Lee Hyejin, who heard the rm from her phone, pped her hand over her mouth and sprang up.

    "Hey, Hyejin?!"

    "Where are you going? Do you have back-to-back sses?"

    "No."

    Something more important.

    Lee Hyejin broke away from her group of friends and started running like the wind.

    She wished she could go home immediately to watch it with a reverent heart, but she couldn''t wait that long.

    Hyejin headed towards the lounge in the old main building, a ce seldom visited by students.

    Confirming she was alone, Lee Hyejin caught her breath and slowly turned her eyes to the thumbnail.

    "Wow."

    She couldn''t help but exim at the sight. Han Yooil was barefoot, wearing a ck shirt, and somehow, his face was shimmering.

    <i>Did he put glitter under his eyes?''</i>

    Even without makeup, Han Yooil''s natural appearance was so handsome that it would make passersby stop and stare. But seeing him in the thick and mboyant makeup typically worn by idols on stage, it was almost breathtaking.

    Lee Hyejin swallowed and moved her finger.

    As she pressed the y button, the dark screen slowly started to brighten.

    Soon, Yooil''s face appeared on the screen. It wasn''t the Han Yooil from the thumbnail with morous makeup. He had a in face, not much different from his bare face.

    As the video began, music slowly started to fill the air.

    The heavy bass and calm guitar seeped into her ears, making her heart feel fluffy and warm.

    Then, Han Yooil, who was lying pale on the ash-colored bed, slowly opened his eyes.

    Han Yooil on the bed began to move slowly.

    But as he rose from his position, his body kept shaking and fragmenting.

    Images entirely different from the man''s moving face were interspersed in the editing. Hands cooking, a bright smile, a broken mirror, a figure running down the street  these scenes added to the confusion. It was a peculiar direction.

    <i>Wow''</i>

    Lee Hyejin could only let out exmations of amazement as she watched Yooil.

    Now, the man in the video was slowly setting his feet on the ground.

    Perhaps it was the low saturation and dark mood of the video, but the deep eyes of Han Yooil, the protagonist of the music video, made the mncholic yet mystical atmosphere of the video stand out even more.

    Lee Hyejin was fully engrossed in the music video, her eyes wide open.

    But something felt odd.

    <i>What''s this?''</i>

    The man moved unnaturally.

    He wandered around the room lifelessly with empty eyes. There was almost no sign of vitality.

    He seemed less like a person.

    [When I open my eyes, the same darkness begins]

    The male vocalist of ck Moon sang the introduction gently.

    [No matter how much I run, I am still]

    The man, creaking like a broken doll, wandered around the room as if searching for something. His hand, groping in the darkness, found the door.

    [Today, too, wandering through the darkness,

    searching for the traces you left]

    However, the door did not open. Instead, as soon as the man''s hand touched the door, he copsed as if he fell over. And again, confusing cuts were inserted through cross-editing.

    [Believing only in the world beneath my eyelids]

    "Wow"

    Lee Hyejin covered her mouth as she looked at the close-up of Han Yooil''s eyes.

    As the music headed towards the climax, his pupils gradually grew distant until they were engulfed inplete darkness.

    [Even if I shatter into pieces]

    In the next scene, the man opened his eyes again. He was back on the same bed as the start.

    Unlike the first verse sung by the male vocalist, the second verse was by a female vocalist.

    [Today, too, the endless darkness begins]

    As the camera slowly zoomed out from the close-up of the man''s face, colors started to fill the monochrome screen, transforming it vividly.

    The ash-colored floor and walls crumbled, and dew-covered flowers and trees began to grow. It was a dreamlike and fantastical backdrop. Strong sunlight fell on the man''s face, making it beautifully sparkle.

    <i>That''s the makeup from the thumbnail.''</i>

    The man who had moved expressionlessly throughout the first verse now got out of bed with a bright face.

    Lee Hyejin decided she would capture every second as soon as she got home, covering her mouth again.

    The husky voice of the female vocalist sounded sweetly, yet somewhat anxiously.

    [No matter how much you run, you are still]

    The man ran through a beautiful field. He picked lemons among the fresh trees, and in the next cut, he was cooking in arge kitchen. In all the scenes, the man seemed truly happy.

    [Today, too, wandering through dreams

    Entering a room with no doors]

    And then someone was seen watching the man from a distance.

    [Into a world that disappears when I open my eyes]

    In the next cut, a man with a peaceful facey on the ash-colored bed. It seemed like he was having a happy dream, a faint smile on his face. And another man watching him slowly left the room and locked the door.

    The camera slowly panned over the man''s face.

    <i>!''</i>

    The man who locked the door was none other than Han Yooil.

    He looked much more tired and haggard than when he first appeared, with deep dark circles under his eyes.

    After locking the door, he turned around again.

    In front of him was again a narrow room and a bed.

    He slowlyy down and closed his eyes.

    [Bing a puzzle that can never be found]

    The music intensified with the powerful blend of guitar, bass, and keyboard, and then it stopped.

    And the screen faded to ck.

    "Ha."

    Lee Hyejin slowly removed the hand that covered her mouth. It was apletely different feeling from any music video she had seen before.

    It was really good.

    Really, really, really good

    Like someone deprived of speech, Hyejin murmured the same words repeatedly and pressed the rey button.

    After diligently taking screenshots, she noticed that the view count had significantly increased in the meantime.

    Being a band with a dedicated fanbase, there were already about a hundredments.

    Tore it up

    Who said ck Moon was past its prime? This new song is amazing

    The song is great, but the music video is really something

    Honestly, came for the thumbnail but stayed for the song, listening for the 23754324th time

    Dude, the songs been out for 10 minutes lololololololol

    Love the track. I cleaned my sses to enjoy it better.

    Who''s the actor? Super handsome

    Im a fan of ck Moon and this track is really something, the music video is legendary;

    asionally, there werements from a handful of international fans who loved Korean indie bands.

    Hello from Brazil, I have been a fan of ck Moon for a long time. This song is now my favorite.

    Im literally crying This is so impressive

    OMG ck Moon did it!!! This is a piece of art!!!!!!!!!!

    What caught Hyejin''s attention was ament interpreting the music video in such a short time.

    Im a fan of ck Moon''s music and music videos, and this one is quite intriguing. From ck Moon''s interviews and lyrics, this song seems to talk about living in a dream'', and the protagonist of the music video also seems to be a character who wants to live in a dream.

    At the beginning, the ash-colored room where the man falls asleep seems to represent reality. The man tries to escape reality with a lifeless demeanor. However, in the second verse, another character appears who puts the man, dreaming happily, into the room. That character is the man himself. This raises a question: What is reality and what is a dream?

    At 1:49 and 2:35, you can see a clock in the man''s room. It''s clearly stopped. But at 3:12, the clock in the room of the other man who locked the man in is moving. The real reality is not the initial ash-colored room, but thest room where the man is asleep. This means that even the ash-colored room where the man first woke up was a dream. The man traps himself in a dream within a dream, escaping from reality(Read more)

    <i>This is crazy.''</i>

    After reading thement thoroughly, Hyejin shook her head and her finger reached out to press the y button again.

    She simply couldn''t resist watching it again.

    While Hyejin was so engrossed in the music video, Han Yooil was being tormented by his peers.

 Chapter 27:

    Chapter 27:

    "Do you know how much I love ck Moon?"

    "How could you film this and not say a word?"

    "Right. You should have told us if you were filming something like this!"

    Han Yooil listened to his friends'' chatter and pulled out hisptop, just as the professor entered the ssroom.

    "Han Yooil."

    "Yeah."

    "You''re filming a drama with Byul, right?"

    Kim Jinwoo whispered softly.

    "Maybe if you get close could you get an autograph?"

    ""

    "Come on, just once"

    His persistent voice faded as the professor began taking attendance.

    After the major ss, Brion''s voice echoed in his mind.

    Yooil, the views for <Daydream> music video have exceeded 40,000.

    <i>What?''</i>

    Already?

    It had only been two hours.

    I''ll show you rted articles.

    Before he could respond, a semi-transparent window appeared in front of him.

    - ck Moon''s splendid return Who is the protagonist of <Daydream> music video?

    [Music TALK!] The universally acknowledged best band ck Moon releases new song <Daydream>

    ck Moon''s <Daydream> music video, JJ Entertainment''s new face Han Yooil intense performance''

    Han Yooil nodded as he skimmed through the numerous article titles.

    <i>The reaction is better than I thought.''</i>

    Yes. The quality of the music video is higher than expected, so the response is mostly positive.

    And Brion started showing thements on OTube.

    All were positive reactions. Especially a longment analyzing the music video was impressive.

    <i>Interesting.''</i>

    After browsing thements for a while, Han Yooil barely managed to get off the subway at Brion''s reminder.

    * * *

    The next morning, Han Yooil was in a car. He had stopped by the shop since dawn and was now on his way to the filming location.

    Min Woojin nced at Han Yooil in the rearview mirror. His actor was sitting upright, neatly made up.

    "Yooil, are you sure it''s okay to film while attending school?"

    "Of course."

    <Sing in High School> was an ott series web drama, consisting of 8 episodes, each 40 minutes long, with a total of 95 shooting schedules.

    Considering that a 2-hour feature film usually has between 80 to 100 shooting schedules, the drama had to produce over 5 hours of content within the same number of schedules.

    <i>And to juggle that with school''</i>

    About 5 months of shooting period. Not only was there almost daily shooting, but long hours on set were required. In fact, this was one of the reasons actors preferred filming movies over dramas. Min Woojin had alsoe to learn this after joining JJ Entertainment.

    Han Yooil responded lightly.

    "It''s fine. I deliberately made my ss schedule lenient."

    Min Woojin recalled Han Yooil''s timetable, stacked like a tower with only two days a week, and nodded.

    "Ah! Right! You did great with your course registration."

    It was a timetable created ording to the shooting schedule, as informed by Brion in advance. Han Yooil smiled proudly and turned his eyes back to the script, which had be tattered after the reading.

    The ck limousine, steered by Min Woojin, slowly decelerated.

    "Good luck today, Han Yooil!"

    "Thanks, hyung."

    Han Yooil got out of the car with a pleasant smile, thinking he could never match Min Woojin''s energy no matter how hard he tried.

    The filming location for <Sing in High School> was an indoor set. The outdoor scenes were to be shot at an abandoned school, while the indoor ones were nned for the set.

    "Oh, Han Yooil, you''re here?"

    "Hello, Assistant Director. Thanks for your hard work this morning."

    "Oh, it''s nothing!"

    The Assistant Director, trying to maintain a cheerful tone despite the evident fatigue, and the Director of Photography passed by as Han Yooil entered the waiting room.

    The veteran staff seemed more tired, but the younger staff with less experience on set were nervously ncing around, visibly tense.

    The bit-part actors who arrived at the set earlier than their call time also stood nervously. They were all ying students of Star High and were waiting in their school uniforms on the ssroom set designated for filming.

    "Huh?"

    Han Yooil''s eyes caught someone entering. Before he could jog his memory, Brion took the initiative.

    It''s the person from the waiting room on the day of the <Sing in High School> audition. They were in the waiting room for supporting/minor roles.

    Then Han Yooil too could clearly remember. It was the very person to whom he had given a hand warmer.

    "Hello."

    The man seemed surprised by Han Yooil''s greeting.

    "Hello!"

    "That the hand warmer. Right?"

    "Wow, you actually remember!"

    The actor beamed, his eyes wide open. He introduced himself as Yoon Shinwoo.

    "I tried to find you right after the audition that day. I was really thankful for the hand warmer."

    "Not at all. It''s nice to see you on set."

    "Me too."

    And Han Yooil began to greet the other bit-part actors around him.

    After parking the car and arriving at the set, Min Woojin hurried over to Han Yooil.

    "Do you know them?"

    "Oh, I met them in the waiting room before."

    Just then, the Assistant Director''s voice echoed through the set.

    "Supporting actors and bit-part actors, we''ll start the rehearsal."

    Han Yooil followed Min Woojin to the waiting room. On the door, an A4 paper read [Han Yooil''s Waiting Room]. Yooil entered with a peculiar feeling. The waiting room was snug and cozy. Woojin handed Yooil a bottle of water.

    "How does it feel?"

    "Um"

    Han Yooil took a big gulp of water and squinted his eyes, then smiled after swallowing.

    "It feels good."

    He was in top condition.

    <i>It seems I''m really cut out for the set.''</i>

    Brion chimed in as if waiting for the moment.

    I''ve mentioned it several times, but of course, acting is your true calling, Yooil

    <i>Do Not Disturb mode.''</i>

    Sounds of activity started to fill the waiting room corridor. Other lead actors were arriving at the set one after the other.

    And not long after, the shooting began.

    <i>*</i>

    Byul, the visual and lead vocalist of LoveA but currently Hyobin of Star High, flings open the ssroom door with her refreshing bob haircut swaying from her chin. With a clear and firm voice, she calls her friend''s name.

    "Heena!"

    "Ah, you startled me!"

    The camera follows Hyobin as she strides forward.

    "Good, cut!"

    Immediately following, Hyobins hand presenting a contest flyer to Heena is close-upped.

    Breathless, Hyobin speaks.

    "Let''s enter this."

    "Eh?"

    Heena''s ck eyes narrow. With her long fingers on Hyobins forehead, concerned, she asks if she''s unwell, while Harang leans in closely to inspect the flyer.

    "What''s this?"

    "Move it. Go away!"

    "Superstar High School?"

    Despite Heena''s chiding, Harang starts reading the flyer meticulously.

    "Does this pay well?"

    "Hey, you have enough money. Why are you always talking about money?"

    Just then, a heavy voice resounded in the ssroom.

    "Guys."

    Seon Gihyeon stands up abruptly.

    "We are supposed to be self-studying."

    The ssroom instantly falls silent.

    In that quiet, Seon Gihyeons tired eyes behind his sses scan over Hyobin, Heena, and Harang. The kids, feeling awkward under his gaze, return to their seats.

    Peaceful self-study time returns to the ssroom.

    Seon Gihyeon lets out a small sigh and sits back down.

    "Ah!"

    At that moment, Lee Taewoo springs up, having been talking in his sleep.

    "Ah it was just a dream."

    Ruffling his hair, Taewoo sits back down. Seon Gihyeon''s eyes rest on Lee Taewoo.

    With many emotions contained in his gaze.

    Kim Kyuoh smiles slightly.

    <i>Much better than the reading.</i>

    He had expected to take several takes, but it seemed that wouldn''t be necessary.

    <i>It''s better than expected.''</i>

    The biggest reason seemed to be Seon Gihyeon, who anchored the scene from the center.

    "Cut."

    He took only the necessary additional cuts before moving on to the next scene.

    For the next few scenes, the focus was on Lee Taewoo and Hyobin.

    Yooil sat in a corner of the set, observing the filming.

    During a short break, Yooil turned his head at the sound of a cheerful voice calling him.

    "Hyung."

    Kim Harangs face, with his hair bleached almost tinum blonde, was beaming with freshness.

    "How have you been?"

    "Ah, yeah. How about you, Harang?"

    "Of course."

    Harang, giggling as he approached, sat down and asked.

    "When did you start acting?"

    When was it?

    It''s been about a year now.

    "I think its been about a year."

    "Wow."

    Kim Harang''s mouth dropped open.

    Through years of being a trainee and an idol, Harang had realized something. Dance and singing can be improved with a certain level of effort. But charisma can''t be created from nothing. It was a matter of talent.

    Acting was the same.

    Confident in his diligence, Kim Harang also felt a clear limit in acting.

    Despite that, it seemed Harang''s curiosity was piqued more by Han Yooil''s personality than by envy.

    <i>Uplicated.''</i>

    Yet, he didn''t seem like a dull person either.

    After briefly pondering, Kim Harang continued with a grin.

    "Once this airs, you''re going to have a lot of fans."

    "You think so? I don''t see my character as particrly likable."

    Seon Gihyeon was the biggest rival and obstacle to Ji Eunho''s character Lee Taewoo, who could be considered the most protagonist-like in the drama.

    "I''m telling you, it''s not like that. You''re really going to be popr!"

    With that, Kim Harang caught a production staff member with an idol''s eye-smile.

    "Sehee noona, when is our first broadcast date?"

    "Is this for the first broadcast?"

    "Yes!"

    "The first broadcast is scheduled for mid-July."

    "Wow, that''s a long wait!"

    "You''re in a hurry even though it''s only the first shoot, Harang!"

    Yooil watched their friendly interaction curiously, prompting Harang, aware of the gaze, to exin with a smile.

    "Oh, we met at another set before. I''m good at remembering people"

    "That''s a useful skill."

    "Really?"

    Don''t worry, Yooil. With me around, you don''t have to worry about such things.

    <i>''</i>

    Han Yooil picked up the water bottle with a face like he had tasted something bitter.

    * * *

    Thankfully, the shooting proceeded without dy and ended around 8 PM.

    Despite the long day, enough breaks kept everyone in fairly good condition.

    "Great work, everyone!"

    "See you at the next shoot~"

    Just as Yooil and everyone were about to leave, an unfamiliar staff member approached.

    "Mr. Yooil!"

    Introducing himself as part of the production team of <How We Ended Up>, the staff member looked up at Yooil with pleading eyes. It was a gaze hard to ignore.

    "Do you have any schedules after this?"

    "Schedules?"

    Min Woojin slowly shook his head, not forgetting to cast a wary nce at the staff member.

    "Not particrly."

    Hearing Yooil''s response, the unfamiliar staff member bowed deeply and eximed.

    "Then could you please help us out just this once!"

    "What?"

    Min Woojin, who had been yawning, started coughing in surprise at the staff member''s grasp.

    "Please! I beg you!"

    This was an unexpected turn of events.

 Chapter 28:

    Chapter 28:

    The unfamiliar staff member was the youngest member of the production team for the daily drama <How We Ended Up>, which was being shot on the set next door. He continued almost on the verge of tears.

    "Actually we had an actor scheduled to make a cameo today. They were supposed to arrive right now, but they suddenly fell ill"

    After hearing the full story from him, Han Yooil nodded. It seemed like the role had more lines than a typical cameo or supporting role, and it wasn''t something the director was satisfied to hand over to just any supporting actor or extra.

    "I''ll do it."

    Min Woojin looked at Han Yooil with bulging eyes.

    "Yooil, you"

    "It''s a short shoot, it shouldn''t take long."

    "Absolutely! It won''t take long!"

    The staff member nodded vigorously, his concerns dissipating, and made a call.

    "Yes, Director! Yes, Actor Han Yooil said he can do it! Yes! I''ll bring him right over!"

    Min Woojin, looking pale, had to make a call to thepany. Brion also seemed surprised by the unexpected situation.

    Even so, how could he refuse such a plea?

    I didn''t foresee this situation. It''s unexpected.

    <i>''</i>

    <How We Ended Up> is a daily drama currently maintaining a viewership rating over 10%, with its primary audience being women aged 40 to 60. The story revolves around various love lines and the sess story of a divorced woman in her 30s. The director is Kim Hosin, known to be demanding when ites to actingpared to other directors of daily dramas. The lead actress is Jung Yuna, a second-generation idol-turned-actor.

    Han Yooil listened to Brion''s information and headed to the adjacent set.

    "Ah, Actor Han Yooil!"

    Director Kim Hosin, who warmly weed Han Yooil, scrutinized him carefully.

    <i>Let''s see''</i>

    Tall, likely over 180cm, with clean skin and deep, double-lidded eyes.

    <i>Neat and handsome.''</i>

    He wasn''t well-acquainted, but he knew that this actor was gradually rising in poprity. How fortunate it was to have such an actor on the neighboring set.

    Director Kim patted the youngest staff member''s back encouragingly and continued.

    "Did you get a brief about the role you''re ying?"

    "Yes, I was briefed."

    Han Yooils role was to be the friend of the protagonist''s youngest sibling.

    He visits the protagonist''s house and shows interest in her, inadvertently igniting jealousy in her divorced ex-husband who happens to pass by the house.

    Yooil nodded, and soon a script page was handed to him.

    "Don''t stress too much, let me know when you''re ready."

    After skimming the script for 1-2 minutes, Han Yooil looked up.

    "Ready to start."

    "Eh?"

    Director Kim looked at Han Yooil with skepticism.

    "You don''t need to rush. We still have a few more shots before wrap-up."

    "It''s fine. I think I''m ready."

    Kim Hosin looked at Han Yooil with narrowed eyes.

    <i>This guy, I didn''t expect him to be so overconfident.''</i>

    Director Kim clicked his tongue slightly. Well, whether it was bravado or not, he couldn''t refuse an actor willing to shoot.

    "Then let''s try it lightly. Call the actors, please~"

    And he called the actors who were in the waiting room. Jung Yuna, who came out of the waiting room, widened her eyes in surprise.

    "Wait, wasn''t the cameo unable toe today?"

    Jung Yuna was an idol who had long held the position of a music show MC with a friendly image, and now she was an actor known as the King of Daily Dramas''.

    Han Yooil, suppressing the unteral intimacy that anyone of his age would have, greeted her.

    "Hello, I''m Han Yooil."

    In response to Han Yooil''s greeting, Jung Yuna extended her hand with a bright smile.

    "Nice to meet you, I''m Jung Yuna!"

    Jung Yuna extended her hand with a cheerful smile. Her eyes, with thick double eyelids and slightly upturned corners, drew a curve. Contrary to her delicate and haughty appearance, she seemed to have a quite vibrant personality.

    Kim Haejoon, who took the role of Park Dojin, the brother of the main character Park Hyeju (Jung Yuna) and a friend of Han Yooil, came out of the waiting room. He too greeted Han Yooil warmly.

    Kim Haejoon was an actor who was at least ten years older than Han Yooil, often cast in younger roles due to his cute appearance and small stature.

    "Thank you foring despite being busy."

    "Not at all. It''s an honor to shoot together."

    And soon, the shooting began.

    The shooting started from a set decorated as the outside of a house. The two, who were in their final year of college, were on their way back from a job-search study, and Park Hyeju was inside the house eating bibimbap.

    The youngest member of the production team swallowed his saliva and looked down at the script and the daily shooting schedule.

    [S#25 In front of Hyeju''s house (Evening)]

    <i>Please do well!''</i>

    As the youngest prayed with all his heart, the camera director, looking tired, began setting up the camera.

    "Camera roll~"

    "Take 1 of scene 25!"

    At the director''s signal of action'', the actors began their performance.

    "Hey, sister''s at home."

    "Sister?"

    "You really haven''t seen her in a long time. Not since the wedding two years ago"

    Dojin pped his mouth as if he regretted speaking.

    "Ah. I''m doomed. She said she''d kill me if I said that."

    Then Han Yooil chuckled and said,

    "I''ll pretend I didn''t hear it."

    <i>!''</i>

    The shooting director unknowingly began to close-up Han Yooil''s face. And the next moment, Han Yooil opened the door and entered the house.

    "Sister, it''s been a long time."

    Park Hyeju, who was eating bibimbap, widened her cat-like eyes slightly.

    "Uh uh? Hello."

    A gentle smile spread across Han Yooil''s face. It was a simple, unforced, and unburdened smile.

    Park Hyeju stared intently at Han Yooil as he spoke.

    "You''re still the same, sister."

    "Is that a good thing?"

    "Of course it is."

    Watching them, the youngest member of the production team hugged his arms and eximed inwardly.

    <i>Why does this feel so ticklish?!''</i>

    It was a feeling he had never experienced while shooting daily dramas. Although the framing was typical of daily dramas, it kept giving off the atmosphere of a mini-series romance drama.

    Unknowingly immersed in their conversation, someone knocked on the door from outside Park Hyeju''s house.

    "Ah, just a moment."

    As Park Hyeju was about to leave the house, Han Yooil quickly stood up.

    "I''ll go see."

    "Huh?"

    Han Yooil, with a neat smile, headed toward the entrance.

    The moment he opened the door, the face of Park Hyeju''s ex-husband appeared. He looked at Han Yooil with a puzzled expression.

    "Who are you?"

    "And who might you be?"

    "I used to be the husband, the owner of this house."

    Despite the ex-husband''s sly tone, Han Yooil didn''t back down easily. Instead, Yooil spoke in a rxed manner.

    "People usually refer to that kind of rtionship like this."

    He continued with a slight smile.

    "Ex."

    It was a refreshingeback.

    <i>Perfect.''</i>

    The director removed his headset and nodded in satisfaction. Even the monitor looked perfect.

    <i>He memorized all that in one go.''</i>

    Despite being a cameo, his attention to the rtionships between the characters and his changing attitudes depending on the character were not typical of a neer.

    <i>This guy is better than the one who was originally supposed toe.''</i>

    The actor who was scheduled for the special appearance, Bae Yoonhyung, had a long acting career and was popr for several years as a pretty boy actor'', but there had always been controversies about his acting skills whenever he yed a leading role.

    Nevertheless, he was popr among the daily drama audience and still didn''t know how to bend his pride. The fact that he canceled his cameo appearance might have been intentional.

    While the director was monitoring contentedly, Jung Yuna, who had approached Han Yooil, whispered.

    "You''re really good, you know?"

    Jung Yuna said with a beaming smile.

    "It''s all thanks to you."

    "No way."

    "Pardon?"

    Unlike the slightly bewildered Han Yooil, Jung Yuna looked at him yfully, her eyes twinkling.

    "I was just riding on your coattails. Yooil may I call you Yooil?"

    "Of course."

    "It''s been a while since I felt like I was shooting a romance, all thanks to you, Yooil."

    Jung Yuna said, giving him a wink.

    * * *

    A few dayster, after the broadcast of <How We Ended Up>, various articles started flooding the inte.

    <How We Ended Up> Surprise Appearance of a Younger Man''  Who Is He?

    Daily Drama <How We Ended Up> Captures Attention The Man Who Made Park Hyeju''s Heart Flutter?

    Refreshing Neer'' Han Yooil, Special Appearance in <How We Ended Up>

    <How We Ended Up> Hits Peak Ratings Did the Cameo Effect'' y a Part?

    .

    .

    .

    The response is better than expected.

    <i>Indeed.''</i>

    Although they hadn''t expected such a response, it seemed they fully reaped the benefits of having a solid core audience.

    "Yooil, did you know that screenshots of your face are circting in mom cafes?"

    Min Woojin showed his phone to Han Yooil, who shook his head in disbelief.

    "Look at this."

    ""

    (Chat) Anyone watched How We Ended Up'' yesterday?

    [(Photo) (Photo)

    Yesterday. Screamed during the drama~~ Seeing him speak his mind to the husband (now an ex though~ haha) was so satisfying~~~ Wish he''d appear more often, what a pity it''s just a special appearance~~]

    Exactly~~ Isnt he more handsome than the male lead haha (Sorry, boss~~^^;;)

    Looked him up and its an actor named Han Yooil. Young too, but such great acting~

    Oh, I looked him up too haha. Same age as my son haha

    I want him as my son-inw~~

    "Even my mom, who''s never been interested before, was asking all sorts of questions. Suddenly giving me ginseng and saying well done''"

    Comining about this unprecedented interest from his mother, Min Woojins voice faded as Han Yooil pulled out hisptop from his bag.

    [1st Semester Midterm Report Assignment]

    He was, after all, an unavoidable college student.

    * * *

    Meanwhile, Lee Hyejin was living her life amidst the flood of SNS as usual.

    Her days were lively, thanks to the frequent appearances of male actors she was interested in.

    Lee Hyejin hopped between BlueChat and variousmunities, liking favorable posts.

    While happily browsing, Lee Hyejin stumbled upon a post with a distasteful title.

    Aren''t the viral attempts of rookie actors these days a bit too much?

    [Everyone calls them scene stealers, but honestly, it''s kinda funny.

    Do they still think virals work?

    This way of promoting rookies doesnt seem to help them in the long run.]

    Theres more than one or two rookie actors.

    Who are you talking about?

    That one who appeared as a cameo in the daily drama lol

    H Yooil?

    Yes

    <i>Damn it.</i>

    Her bad premonition was right.

    As they start getting famous, these kind of people begin totch on.

    <i>My actor was just a regr person until a few months ago!''</i>

    Frowning, Lee Hyejin''s fingers moved quickly. Obviously, her actor would still be unaware of this world.

    <i>I hope he never finds out.</i>

    Soon, Lee Hyejin entered BlueChat and quickly left a post, unaware that her idol might eventually see it.

 Chapter 29:

    Chapter 29:

    [@jinnnny Seeing Yool getting more attentiontely, seems like he''s be quite famous.]

    [@jinnnny Instead of wasting your time hating, you should sleep more.]

    [@yuulll_33 Lol, seriously.]

    [@dbdlf_tkfkd Seems like someone has too much time on their hands.]

    [@1_yull123 If you have that much time, give some to me, geez.]

    As Han Yooil was looking at the BlueChat posts that appeared on the semi-transparent screen, he tilted his head in confusion.

    <i>Hating?</i>

    Hating means to be an anti-fan.

    <i>Aha.</i>

    It was still a novel world to him. Yooil shrugged his shoulders and then reopened hisptop. The report he was working on popped up immediately. The deadline for the midterm substitute report was tomorrow.

    Woojin nced at Yooil, who was focused on his assignment, through the rearview mirror.

    "Yooil, don''t you get carsick? You''ll ruin your eyesight if you keep that up."

    Yooil replied with a smallugh to Min Woojin''s words.

    "I''m just finishing up. The assignment is due tomorrow."

    "That sounds tough"

    Mumbling more to himself, Min Woojin then asked a question he had been curious about for a while.

    "Yooil, do people recognize you at school?"

    "Sometimes?"

    Indeed, more people had been taking photos of him or asking for selfiespared to the start of the semester.

    <i>Now that I think about it, it has been increasingtely.''</i>

    Especially after the daily drama started airing, the number of people recognizing him in ces like the subway had begun to grow, regardless of age.

    At Yooil''s words, Min Woojin frowned slightly.

    "Ah~ You''re just being modest! Wait and see."

    Things would intensify once <Sing in High School> started airing.

    No manager wouldn''t want their actor to seed, and Min Woojin strongly believed that <i>Han Yooil is bound to rise in poprity.''</i>

    Despite Yooil''s dry responses every time they talked about it, Woojin never mentioned it out loud

    Min Woojin shook his head and refocused on the road.

    <i>We''ve got plenty of time till we arrive.''</i>

    Woojin yawned and slowly pressed on the gas pedal in time with the traffic signal.

    Today was the third filming day for Sing in High School. The actors were a bit awkward during the first shoot, but it seemed less so from the second one onwards.

    Even as he entered the parking lot, Han Yooil was fully engrossed in editing his report.

    "Alright! We''ve arrived~"

    "Thanks, Hyung."

    "Okay, I''m going to buy some drinks ande in!"

    Min Woojin waved cheerfully and headed towards the convenience store.

    * * *

    "I always notice this, but Yooil, your skin is really amazing."

    "Yeah, but you know, good skin is something you''re born with."

    "Yeah, it''s really true."

    Yooil listened to the somewhat embarrassingpliments from the makeup team while getting his makeup done. After finishing his hair setting and putting on sses, in the mirror sat Seon Gihyeon  a sensitive yet prickly honor student.

    "By the way, Yooil, you go to the same school as Eunho, right?"

    A makeup artist, packing up her tools, asked with sparkling eyes. The other staff around also started chiming in.

    "Wow~ A prestigious university~"

    "Oh, then have you two met before?"

    "No, I haven''t met him at school yet."

    Knock, knock.

    Just then, there was a knock on the door of the waiting room.

    Before Han Yooil could ask who it was, the door cracked open slightly, and a familiar voice was heard.

    "Can Ie in?"

    Through the gap in the door, Kim Harang''s tinum blond hair and pale face were visible. As Yooil nodded, Harang entered the waiting room with a bright face.

    "I''m sorry to barge in like this. I hope I''m not interrupting your break."

    "Not at all. It''s fine."

    Kim Harang, who took a seat, looked at Han Yooil with wide eyes.

    "It''s not for anything else I wanted to practice acting with you."

    "With me?"

    "Yes!"

    Yooil realized in that moment why Harang was so popr. Even without stage makeup, there was something about him that sparkled.

    <i>An idol is truly an idol.''</i>

    Kim Harang is the youngest member and main dancer of ck Sea, and one of those called the visual members''

    <i>Alright.''</i>

    Han Yooil nodded and responded.

    "I''m okay with it."

    "Wow! Really? Just wait a moment. I''ll go and tell my manager I got permission ande back!"

    Yooil quietly watched Harang hurry out.

    Not long after, Harang reentered the waiting room with two cups of coffee and a script in hand.

    "Hyung, you''re okay with Americano, right? I remembered you liked it, so I got you Americano!"

    "I like it."

    As Yooil took a sip of the Americano, Kim Harang started to speak.

    "By the way, I saw you in How We Ended Up''."

    "Was it a drama you usually watch?"

    "Not really! I saw it in a clip on OTube."

    Harang continued with a bright smile.

    "Thank you for agreeing to help me with the acting practice. Actually, it''s my first time shooting a drama, so the agency is quite worried."

    "You''re doing well though."

    "No, no! If you say that elsewhere, I''ll get in trouble!"

    Kim Harang widened his eyes at Han Yooil''s words.

    "Today''s shooting starts from scene 34, I think."

    "Yes, that''s right!"

    "Shall we start from there? You''ve memorized all the lines, right?"

    "Yes!"

    Harang replied brightly, put down his script, and looked at Yooil.

    "But I''ve memorized the lines, but I''m still not sure how to act them out. I did some reading with the acting teacher at the agency."

    He took a short breath and scratched his head.

    "But I still don''t quite get it."

    "That''s surprising. When I read the script, I thought the role suited you well."

    <i>The character''s lines don''t feel that different from your own way of speaking.''</i>

    Interestingly, Harang was the only character whose role name differed from the actor''s real name.

    As if reading Yooil''s thoughts, Kim Harang smiled silently.

    "Everyone seems to think that."

    Harang took a sip of his coffee and continued.

    "In Singin High'', Harang isn''t good at singing but is good atposing. He''s cheerful, has a good beat, and gets along well with the kids I don''t think that''s much like me."

    Han Yooil recalled the scripts he had read. Although he mainly focused on analyzing Seon Gihyeon''s character, he had also spent time understanding the other characters.

    "When I first take on a character, I start by thinking about what their goals are."

    "Right! My acting coach said the same. Goals are the most important!"

    Harang''s eyes sparkled at Han Yooil''s words, but then he hesitated.

    "But to be honest I''m not quite sure about Harang''s'' goal here. If I had to say, maybe it''s to have fun with friends''?"

    Han Yooil nodded in agreement with Kim Harang''s words.

    "I thought something simr."

    Saying so, Yooil flipped through the script and handed a section to Harang.

    Harang looked at the script Yooil handed him.

    [S#23

    Harang, sitting in front of a monitor and MIDI equipment, answers a call.

    Harang: Yeah, mom! Yes, I''m back from school and I''ve eaten. Huh? No, right now

    Harang nces at the monitor, then turns his head back. A bright smile soon appears on his face.

    Harang: (cheerfully)I was just hanging out.]

    After reading the script, Kim Harang looked up at Han Yooil again.

    His face still said he didn''t understand. Han Yooil, seeing Harang''s awkward smile, slowly continued.

    "I don''t think Harang'' is just a cheerful friend."

    "Not just cheerful?"

    "It seems like, despite being financially well-off, he''s significantly affected by the absence of his parents."

    In Sing in High School'', Harang is the son of a wealthy family, growing up under a father working in the USA and a busy mother. He''s somewhat ignorant of the world and stubborn in his own ways.

    But to Han Yooil, Kim Harang seemed not just a typical young master but a character with a strong desire for recognition and affection from those around him.

    "In conversations with friends, this aspect subtly shows, especially here. Although he seems carefree and thoughtless, he appears to be a character who feels as much emptiness, if not more, than the other main characters."

    "!"

    "Currently, he doesn''t seem to have close friends to confide infortably. So, I think that''s why Harang decided to participate in the music contest with his friends."

    Han Yooil added lightly,

    "Of course, this is just my opinion, so please take it as a reference."

    ""

    Kim Harang, who had been staring nkly at Yooil, suddenly hung his head.

    "Are you okay?"

    "Yeah, I''m fine."

    "It''s not like you''re feeling sick, right?"

    I really don''t want to be involved in rumors of a feud with a popr idol.

    As Yooil''s worry deepened, Harang slowly lifted his head.

    "It''s not that"

    Kim Harang''s face was slightly flushed as he looked at Han Yooil.

    "I''m just embarrassed."

    "Excuse me?"

    "You''re not even ying this character, but you understood so much. I thought I had read the script thoroughly and practiced a lot, but"

    Kim Harang whispered, finishing his sentence,"It''s not enough.

    In fact, Harang hadn''t expected any substantial advice from Han Yooil initially. When he knocked on Yooil''s door, he was just hoping to get a bit closer to him.

    Caught off guard by Harang''s unexpected remark, Han Yooil felt a bit flustered.

    <i>What do I do now?''</i>

    If the tension when he first met Harang was 100, it felt like -100 now. Han Yooil quickly waved his hand, trying to maintain hisposure.

    "Not at all. You''re doing well enough."

    "I know my own skills better."

    As Han Yooil was breaking out in a cold sweat, wondering what to say, Kim Harang suddenly burst intoughter. Then, as if nothing had happened, he continued smiling.

    "I really need to work harder from now on!"

    "!"

    "I''m really going to work hard. Can I keeping to your waiting room?"

    His voice was so bright, it almost felt like the surroundings had lit up.

    "Of course."

    "If it bothers you, please tell me."

    Kim Harang joked and then looked straight at Han Yooil.

    "And feel free to speak casually!"

    "That''s"

    "You''re a senior actor."

    After a brief hesitation, Han Yooil spoke.

    "Then let''s both befortable. You''re the senior in terms of debut."

    Kim Harangughed out loud and replied cheerfully.

    "Got it, hyung!"

    At that moment, voices of the staff could be heard from outside the waiting room.

    "Actors, we''re ready to shoot~"

    "Coming!"

    Han Yooil and Kim Harang got up from their seats.

    Achieved 10% of Phase 2 Goals.

    Along with Brion''s voice echoing in his head, Yooil headed to the set.

 Chapter 30:

    Chapter 30:

    On a day when only Han Yooil among the lead actors was scheduled for a shoot for some solo scenes, Min Woojin came to pick him up as usual. As soon as he saw Yooil''s face, Woojin lost his words for a few seconds. He grabbed Yooil with a serious expression.

    "Yooil, did someone bully you?"

    "No way."

    "But you look"

    Min Woojin couldn''t finish his sentence. It didn''t seem appropriate to say such things to the actor he was managing, but Yooil''s condition seemed serious.

    Although he was still handsome, of course

    "It''s because the deadline for my assignment was this morning."

    Han Yooil replied with a swallowed sigh.

    His eyelids felt heavy. He had tried to finish his assignment in the car to avoid this situation but in the end, he had stayed up all night to submit it. It was a disaster he had brought upon himself.

    "But you know, looking tired also has its own kind of decadent charm, Yooil."

    "You really don''t have to say that."

    "Hey, I''m serious!"

    Min Woojin started the car with a smile. He had hoped Yooil would catch a bit of sleep on the way, but Yooil was looking at his worn-out script.

    "You''re really something. Some just get the diploma and don''t even attend school."

    At Woojin''s words, Yooil just smiled. Being a working student, the pressure of a schrship was a bit less, but he still had to do the basics to aim for honors.

    Looking at Yooil rubbing his dry eyes, Woojin spoke with concern.

    "Try to get some sleep. Will you be okay for today''s shooting?"

    However, as soon as they reached the set, Woojin realized his worries were unnecessary. Yooil was, quite literally, flying on set.

    Woojin shook his head as he watched Han Yooil in front of the camera.

    <i>Such a tough guy. How can there be no sign of it?''</i>

    No matter how much makeup was applied, the all-nighter college student was nowhere to be seen. In front of the camera, Yooil was just an actor transformed into Seon Gihyeon.

    "Take 39, shot 1, action!"

    With the midterm exams not far away,

    Seon Gihyeon was focused on a workbook. His lips tightly closed, his eyes moving quickly. And his hands solving the problems at a fast pace.

    He looked like the smartest kid in school'' to anyone watching.

    The camera close-upped Seon Gihyeon''s face, hands, and then alternated between them.

    "Cut, okay!"

    "Good!"

    "Let''s move to the next shot."

    A subtle smile began to appear on Director Kim Kyuoh''s face. Ever since joining for promotional reasons, the making-film camera had been close-upping the face of Director Kim Kyuoh.

    It was natural for Kim Kyuoh to react this way. The acting was so neat that setting the camera took longer than the actual shooting.

    The assistant director felt the same.

    However, he was surprised by something slightly different  the scene where Han Yooil''s hands were close-upped, effortlessly solving math problems.

    Unable to contain his curiosity, he asked,

    "Yooil, did you really solve that?"

    "Ah, yes. They weren''t that hard."

    Though he mentioned it casually, the assistant director, who had been admitted to a prestigious university through regr admissions, remembered the difficulty of the workbook.

    <i>Prestigious indeed.''</i>

    It felt unfair that someone with that face, acting skills, and intelligence existed. Yet, even the slight discontent couldn''t hide the admiration.

    <i>It''s like he''s really Seon Gihyeon.''</i>

    Throughout the shooting, there had been no hint of inadequacy, but now Yooil truly embodied Seon Gihyeon''.

    After monitoring, Director Kim Kyuoh expressed his satisfaction.

    "Good. If this long shot is okay, then the scene is okay~"

    "Yes!"

    The cinematographer, unlike the previous close-up scenes, quickly moved to set up a shot that showed Seon Gihyeon at the center with half of the students visible.

    Even the extras, who had been rxing off-camera, adjusted their postures.

    One of the extras, Yoon Shinwoo, was very nervous. After greeting Yooil a few times since their first meeting on set, he was now seated right next to Han Yooil.

    As the camera was being set up, Shinwoo repeatedly clenched and unclenched his cold hands. He was cast as Heejun'', a role of a not-so-bad but yful kid'' in the ss, who had only five lines throughout the entire script.

    Today, Shinwoo was scheduled to deliver his first line.

    <i>I should have taken some calming pills beforeing.''</i>

    He clenched his eyes shut. Why was he more nervous than during the auditions?

    <i>Don''t mess up, don''t mess up, dont''</i>

    "Shinwoo."

    "Mess up! Yes?!"

    Startled, Shinwoo turned his head. Han Yooil was looking at him.

    "If it''s okay with you, shall we practice together?"

    "Ah Yes! Yes, that would be great!"

    After taking a deep breath, Shinwoo began.

    Heejun'' was the kind of kid in ss who isn''t bad but likes to y around''.

    "Wow, Seon Gihyeon really, how can you solve all that? I wish I had half of your brains for studying."

    Shinwoo leaned forward and alternated his gaze between the workbook and Seon Gihyeon while delivering his line.

    It was a line he had practiced hundreds of times to perform perfectly for his five-line role.

    But.

    <i>It''s noting out as well as I thought.''</i>

    Maybe it was the nerves, or perhaps he had practiced too rigidly, but it felt awkward. As Shinwoo swallowed dryly,

    "You can rx."

    Han Yooil said so, sliding the workbook he was solving to the side.

    "Just actfortably. While delivering your line, feel free to pull the workbook toward you, or even take it away."

    "Can I do that?"

    "Of course."

    That''s a good approach. It will look much more natural.

    Ignoring Brion''sment, Yooil continued,

    "Since Heejun doesn''t act with bad intentions, it might be good to keep it light and yful."

    "!"

    While Shinwoo was digesting Yooil''s advice, the assistant director signaled that the shoot was about to start.

    "Take 39, shot 5, action!"

    And so, the set transformed into a perfect ssroom. The screen captured kids sleeping, chatting about different things, and ying pranks.

    In the midst of it all, Seon Gihyeon was focused on solving problems in his workbook.

    Yoon Shinwoo rather, Heejun nced at Seon Gihyeon and then quickly pulled the workbook towards him.

    "!"

    Caught off guard by the unexpected move, Seon Gihyeon''s sharp pencil drew a thin line right across the middle of the workbook.

    "Wow~ typical Seon Gihyeon."

    "."

    At first nce, Seon Gihyeon''s expression seemed unchanged. However, anyone who had been observing Seon Gihyeon through the previous scenes would know.

    Seon Gihyeon was annoyed.

    "How can you solve all that? I wish I had even half of your brains for studying."

    Instead of responding, Seon Gihyeon simply retrieved his workbook. The action wasn''t rough, but there was a refined frustration in it.

    Seeing this, Heejun unintentionally blurted out a remark.

    "Jeez so prickly."

    The words slipped out before he had a chance to think.

    A few seconds of silence followed.

    "Cut."

    At the director''s cue, Yoon Shinwoo gasped for air. His heart started racing.

    He had improvised.

    Done it.

    An extra making an ad-lib.

    But there was no turning back now.

    <i>I''ve ruined it.''</i>

    Just as Yoon Shinwoo was about to stand up and apologize profusely, Director Kim Kyuoh nodded his head.

    "Nice."

    "!"

    "Yooil,e and monitor this together?"

    As Shinwoo still couldn''t grasp what was happening, blinking in confusion, Han Yooil walked up to the monitor. Then, he made an unexpected suggestion.

    "Director."

    "Yeah?"

    "Would it be okay if Mr. Shinwoo, who ys Heejun'', also joins in the monitoring?"

    "!"

    When Director Kim Kyuoh nodded again, Han Yooil made room for Shinwoo to join.

    "Me?"

    With his heart about to burst, Shinwoo stood up. But seeing Han Yooil smiling and beckoning him, the rapid beating of his heart calmed down a bit.

    Shinwoo walked slowly towards the monitor. The scene they had just acted out started to appear on the monitor.

    He had filmed many shorts before, but this was the first time he had ever monitored amercial production.

    <i>It''s definitely better.''</i>

    Han Yooil''s advice was spot on. The way Heejun casually grabbed the workbook and Seon Gihyeon''s annoyed reaction to Heejun were humorously and naturally captured.

    "Nice. The name''s"

    "Ah, Yoon Shinwoo!"

    "Right. Shinwoo, your acting was good. Let''s approve this take and shoot an additional close-up of you to finish."

    Shinwoo bit his lip. Otherwise, he felt his cheeks might rise in a grin.

    Having sessfullypleted the additional close-up without any issues, Shinwoo bowed to Han Yooil during the break. However, to Shinwoo''s thanks, Han Yooil simply said,

    "It''s not a big deal. It''s because Actor Yoon Shinwoo did well. You''ll do even better in the future."

    "Thank you."

    For some reason, Shinwoo''s eyes started to feel moist. He averted his gaze and took a breath.

    The actor was several years his junior. Initially, Shinwoo just thought of him as a likeable actor with a good impression, but he hadn''t expected to receive such warm and substantial encouragement.

    <i>Once the shooting ends it''ll all be over.''</i>

    He knew that Han Yooil was already a famous actor, but the thought of potentially losing contact after the shooting ended in a few months seemed regrettable. Shinwoo mustered his courage.

    "Please feel free to decline. If it''s okay with you, could we follow each other on ShaStar? I''d like to contact you asionally, but I don''t want to bother you by exchanging numbers."

    "ShaStar?"

    However, Han Yooil gave an unexpected response.

    "Uh I don''t have one."

    "What?"

    "I don''t have a ShaStar ount yet."

    Facing a dumbfounded Shinwoo, Yooil smiled awkwardly.

    It might be time to create a social media ount.

    * * *

    Hourster, upon hearing that Han Yooil was considering creating a ShaStar ount, thepany''s PR team was thrilled.

    "We were nning to suggest it to you soon. You''ll probably manage it well on your own, so we won''t interfere too much. We''ll only give you brief guidelines for promotional purposes. First things first, you should"

    Min Woojin also seemed excited.

    "Wow~ finally making one! Yooil, I actually had an idea for an ID"

    "You''ve been thinking of an ID for my ShaStar?"

    Under the enthusiastic support of his manager and the PR team, Han Yooil created his first social media ount.

    "You need to post photos on ShaStar."

    "Ah"

    "Take a selfie and upload it! If it''s okay, please send it to us first."

    But both the passionate manager and the proactive PR team overlooked one thing.

    Han Yooil had never taken a selfie with the front camera before.

    Watching Yooil awkwardly trying to take a selfie, Min Woojin finally took the photo for him, liberating Yooil from his selfie woes.

    That night, something happened that would make Han Yooil''s fans scream with joy.

    [(Photo)

    @1_and_only It''s my first time on ShaStar. Nice to meet you, everyone. (waving hand emoji)]

    While Han Yooil slept, thements on his post started multiplying rapidly.

    @_Xdbdlf OMG he''s so handsome

    @emfek The photo doesn''t do him justice

    @tkffu Yooil, it''s your aunt. I lost my phone, can you DM me?~

    @lovely.hye Please do another y, actor please

    @show.me.the.acting Yooil, it''s Jung Suho. Let''s follow each other.

    Wow

    It''s really actor Jung Suho

    This is hrious

    I thought it was a joke, but it''s real ;

    This is why it''s real life

    Little did anyone know, it all started with a conversation on set.

 Chapter 31:

    Chapter 31:

    The next day.

    Yooil was on the set of "Singin High." He was bewildered by the flood of follow requests and messages on ShaStar that hade in since morning. Following Brion''s guidance to navigate ShaStar, Yooil lifted his head at the sound of a lively knock on the door.

    "Hyung!"

    Then came a voice as cheerful as the knock.

    It was Kim Harang.

    After briefly greeting Yooil, Harang sat down on a chair in the corner.

    "Hey, I heard you did a solo shoot yesterday! Of course, I''m sure you did great."

    And then, he quickly took out his phone and sessfully followed Yooil on ShaStar.

    During breaks, the staff passing by the waiting room, seeing Kim Harang visit, would often add ament or two.

    "When did you and Yooil get so close, Harang?"

    "Eunho might feel left out, you know?"

    "Ah~ Eunho hyung only feels left out when someone steals his snacks!"

    From what they had observed so far, Kim Harang and Ji Eunho were quite different.

    To begin with, Eunho was less talkative. Despite being alumni from the same school as Yooil, they had hardly ever conversed.

    Moreover, Eunho was juggling an even more incredible schedule than Harang. It was usual for him to arrive just in time for the shooting to begin.

    "Hyung,e hang out at our practice roomter! The guys want to see you."

    "ck Sea members know about me?"

    Harang answered with a bright smile.

    "I talk about hyung all the time. They feel like they already know you."

    "Thank you."

    * * *

    Meanwhile, the assistant director setting up the shooting site was beaming with excitement.

    Finally, it''s time to shoot this scene.''

    The acting Han Yooil had shown during the audition as Seon Gihyeon.''

    It was the scene where Seon Gihyeon and Lee Taewoo have a major confrontation.

    <i>''</i>

    Ji Eunho, who was ying Lee Taewoo, seemed slightly nervous. Until now, most of his scenes involved him sleeping on the desk or casually talking to other characters from a distance. Especially with Han Yooil, he had hardly ever had direct, face-to-face acting encounters.

    What worried him the most was something else. He felt a disconnect between what he felt while delivering the lines and the actual emotions and thoughts hidden beneath the actual dialogue.'' In other words, Eunho was concerned about properly expressing the subtext of his lines.

    <i>Let''s just do it and see.''</i>

    He steadied his mind as he saw Han Yooil exiting the waiting room.

    Once all the actors were ready, the red lights on sound and camera were on.

    "Take 51, shot 1, action!"

    Director Kim Kyuoh sharply called out, headset on.

    "Action!"

    In the empty clubroom.

    Seon Gihyeon and Lee Taewoo, assigned for cleaning duty together, each held cleaning tools and were sweeping the dust.

    "Hey."

    Taewoo, sweeping the dust, slowly straightens his back and then speaks again to Gihyeon.

    "Why do you always wear that damn expression?"

    But Gihyeon, pretending not to hear, continues to sweep the floor.

    "Hey! Can''t you hear me?"

    Seon Gihyeon''s eyes, grown cold, look at Taewoo.

    Even without speaking, it''s as if he''s saying, Why are you talking to me like that?''

    Taewoo, feeling even more irritated, res at Gihyeon. Then Gihyeon''s lips part.

    "Because it''s worth it."

    "What?"

    "That''s how it is."

    The cleaning tools Lee Taewoo was holding fell to the floor. Seon Gihyeon, listening to the broom and dustpan tter, didn''t seem startled.

    "I don''t think I said anything I shouldn''t have."

    "Ha."

    Hearing that line, for a moment, Lee Taewoo felt genuinely infuriated, forgetting that all this was just acting.

    "Do you hate me that much?"

    A mixture of irritation, injustice, and the anger of a situation out of his control.

    And a faint sadnessced with the underlying thought, What did I do to deserve this?''

    Yet, Seon Gihyeon remained unblinking.

    "Alright. I''ll be honest."

    Seon Gihyeon, who had been avoiding eye contact with Taewoo until just then, now looks him straight in the eye.

    Taewoo unconsciously steps back.

    "I dislike you."

    Seon Gihyeon continues, his expression cold.

    "Making noise as if you own the ce, ruining the ss atmosphere we barely maintain, disrupting those who want to study. This exam might mean nothing to you, but not to me."

    Lee Taewoo''s eyes ze as he listens to Seon Gihyeon.

    He has to work part-time due to poverty. Therefore, he can only sleep during the day.

    He has never had a moment to rx. He''s always short on money.

    He has to participate in singing contests for money, while others join for fun.

    That''s truly, utterly miserable.

    "Must be nice, being so well-off."

    Lee Taewoo takes steps closer to Seon Gihyeon.

    "Never faced any hardships or difficulties in life, huh? Howfortable it must be. Just looking down on everyone from your high ce, with that disdainful expression?"

    Seon Gihyeon''s expression wavers.

    "What?"

    Wow, so he does get shaken?

    Lee Taewoo thinks to himself.

    He leans in close to Seon Gihyeon''s face and continues with a smirk.

    "Why? I don''t think I said anything I shouldn''t have."

    Lee Taewoo, giving back Seon Gihyeon''s own words, turns and heads for the door.

    Seon Gihyeon, lips bitten and fists clenched, slowly speaks.

    "You know nothing."

    Bang.

    The door closes as soon as the words are uttered.

    It''s the sound of an insurmountable wall being erected between the two.

    .

    .

    .

    "Cut!"

    At Director Kim Kyuoh''s shout, the staff, who had been holding their breath, all exhaled deeply.

    "Wow, damn"

    The assistant director looked back and forth between Ji Eunho and Han Yooil. The scene was even better than expected.

    As Yooil and Eunho approached the monitor for monitoring, Kim Kyuoh grinned and spoke.

    "Eunho, it seems much better than during the reading, doesn''t it?"

    "Thank you."

    Ji Eunho, too, had to admit upon monitoring. The footage dispelled all the worries he had before shooting.

    Yet a strange feeling lingered.

    <i>Why?''</i>

    "Looks great! Let''s just shoot each of your close-ups now. Keep it up."

    Afterward, as Ji Eunho repeatedly acted alongside Han Yooil, he realized something.

    <i>Ah.''</i>

    Theplex subtext that had been difficult to grasp now seemed toe naturally. It was because of the actor delivering lines right in front of him. Han Yooil responded instantly every time Ji Eunho altered his performance subtly. It was an immersive act that left no choice but to engage fully, something only possible with a solid foundation of acting skills andposure. Eunho''s previously iplete performance had naturally improved thanks to this.

    "Impressive."

    He knew Kim Harang liked this actor. Despite his short career, all his works had received positive reviews.

    Lost in thought, Eunho was guided by the production staff to a temporary waiting room.

    "The next scene involves both of you, so please rest here!"

    The current filming location was a bit far from their respective waiting rooms, necessitating this arrangement.

    The atmosphere was awkward, being left alone for the first time. ncing over, Eunho noticed Yooil staring seriously at the wall.

    <i>He must be memorizing his lines for the next scene.''</i>

    Eunho also recited his lines silently, fingers folding and unfolding. The silence was broken by Yooil.

    * * *

    Since entering the waiting room, Yooil had been conversing with Brion.

    ck Sea''s Ji Eunho is the leader. He''s 25, four years older than the youngest member, Kim Harang. He''s also one of the most popr members. ck Sea''s fan name is Coral''

    <i>Fan name?''</i>

    It''s a nickname for the fans. Yooil, you might also decide on a nickname for your fanster.

    <i>I''m not even an idol?''</i>

    Nowadays, actors often have fan names too, which help strengthen the bond between fans and celebrities. Furthermore

    <i>Enough. Got it.''</i>

    After a brief silence, Brion spoke again.

    Yooil, the next scene is a singing scene. It might be good to prepare in advance.

    The uing scene was where the leads sing for the first time, solidifying the identity of the musical web drama.

    The shooting aims to capture live sound as much as possible, though dubbing will be essential, so don''t be too stressed.

    Might as well do it right.

    Yooil looked at Eunho. His brown hair covered half his face as he bowed his head, reciting his lines while folding and unfolding his fingers.

    "Do you mind if we practice together?"

    "!"

    "If you''re busy, feel free to decline."

    "No, that''s fine."

    Eunho quickly responded and looked down at his script.

    [S#54. Schoolyard+Clubroom (Day)

    Seon Gihyeon starts singing (2. Winter Sprout) quietly as if reciting in the clubroom.

    Then Lee Taewoo, alone on the schoolyard dribbling a basketball, continues the song.

    Thest verse is sung together, ending the scene with Gihyeon and Taewoo seemingly leaning back against each other, though in separate spaces.]

    The shooting team''s continuity might have been much moreplex, but this was all that was noted in the script for the first singing scene''.

    Eunho, looking at the script, took out the music score attached to it.

    "You''re going to sing too, right?"

    "Of course."

    Yooil nodded and lightly warmed up his voice.

    Then he started singing as if to say, here we go.

    [When I look in the mirror

    Tears keep flowing]

    "!"

    The voice was clean and clear,fortable to listen to, with a softness in its tone.

    Eunho''s eyes, half-closed, widened in surprise.

    [The world is vast,

    and I only lose my way]

    "He''s good."

    It was a professional level of skill. A vocal style more suited to musicals than idol songs.

    It was surprising, even if he had received training.

    Ji Eunho followed Han Yooil''s lead, singing in his turn.

    [In the mirror I see

    a meek and small child]

    Eunho''s voice wasn''t particrly loud but had a deep resonance that was his strength.

    Next was the part where they both sang in harmony.

    Yooil, recalling the practice sessions he had with Brion, sang each note carefully.

    [The winter is too cold,

    and I can''t fall asleep yet]

    As Eunho''s voice solidly supported the harmony, Yooilyered his melody on top.

    [And I can''t fall asleep yet]

    ""

    The music ended.

    Eunho, his eyes fixed on the music score, thought,

    <i>Nice.''</i>

    It was a good song, even if you disregard the fact that it was part of a drama soundtrack or a musical piece.

    Eunho, with his eyes half-closed again, spoke in his slow manner.

    "You''re quite good."

    "Not really."

    Yooil knew that without Brion, he wouldn''t have been able to enhance his vocal abilities and rhythm sense so effortlessly.

    Just leave it to me in the future, Yooil.

    <i>''</i>

    * * *

    The effect of practicing the song in advance was clear. As the filming of the singing scene wrapped up smoothly, the set was filled with a warm and cheerful atmosphere.

    "Ah, it''s great we didn''t have any dys."

    "Great work, everyone~"

    "Both of you were amazing!"

    "Hope the drama does well so we can send the actors on a trip together~"

    Yooil listened to the staff''s half-joking, half-serious conversation and smiled quietly.

    Despite the long filming period for a web drama, time flew by quickly.

    Finally, the end of the semester hade to Moonmyung University.

    With Yooil''s release from assignments, the release date of "Sing in High School" was fast approaching.

 Chapter 32:

    Chapter 32:

    BlueChat heavy user HM, also known as Harang Mom'', fell in love with Kim Harang the moment she saw ck Sea''s debut stage. Despite HM''s fickle nature, to everyone''s surprise, her love for Harang only grew stronger over time. The one hour before sleep was the only time HM truly felt joy amidst her grueling exam preparation life.

    And now, a new tidbit threw HM into a frenzy.

    <i>A drama a drama? Our Harang acting when did he grow up so much?''</i>

    Although Harang was the same age as her own kin, that didn''t matter. In her eyes, Harang was, and always would be, ck Sea''s youngest and her baby.''

    As usual, HM turned on her phone with a fluttering heart, and a notification from OTube popped up.

    [(Making Film#1) Wee to Sing in High School!]

    <i>Oh!''</i>

    Clicking the notification as if possessed, HM''s face lit up seeing the thumbnail of Yooil, Harang, Byul, Hyena, and Eunho crammed together like sticker photos.

    Sing in High School Behind the Scenes

    Soon, with subtitles, the actors'' faces appeared.

    Actors, this is the making film camera! Please say hello!

    "Ack!"

    HM covered her mouth. The faces of Harang and another actor filled the screen.

    Damn, so handsome''

    HM''s eyes sparkled as she focused on the video, a level of concentration she never had while studying.

    Nice to meet you.

    Wow! Hello~

    While one actor greeted formally, Harang cheerfully greeted the camera like a true idol.

    You two seem really close!

    Responding to the making film director''sment, Harang giggled and pointed at Yooil.

    Of course, Yooil hyung is my teacher!

    What are you talking about?

    Seeming to enjoy teasing the flustered actor, Harang continued yfully.

    Everyone, let me introduce you! He''s my acting teacher!

    You know this is all a joke, right.

    Despite the actor''s rebuke, Harang kept smiling sweetly and whispering to the camera.

    It''s true, hyung is really a teacher!

    "Ghhhh."

    A sound like someone getting the wind knocked out of them escaped from HM''s mouth. The cuteness was lethal.

    And the actor next to Harang was also attractive. A blend of softness and coolness. His expression and the atmosphere changed with his mood.

    <i>His name was Han Yooil, right?''</i>

    If it weren''t for being a fan of Harang, one''s eyes would naturally be drawn to him.

    HM reyed the video several times, clutching her heart each time Harang appeared whispering to the camera.

    Excited, HM began pouring out posts on BlueChat.

    [@HM_0110 Wow, only one month left till Sing in High School]

    [@HM_0110 I wish I could close my eyes and it''d be one monthter. I feel dizzy with excitement]

    With the number of replies increasing in real-time, HM''s anticipation for Sing in High School grew as she drifted off to sleep.

    * * *

    "It''s me, Auntie."

    Arriving a bit earlier than usual at the set, Yooil was on the phone with Jin Hayoung in the waiting room.

    Oh, Yooil. You''re doing okay?

    "Of course. Totally fine."

    Hearing Yooil talking about his hard work, Jin Hayoung raised her voice.

    No, you''ve been the one working hard, juggling school and acting.

    "Well, it''s still way better than doing part-time jobs, you know."

    Indeed, it was more physically demanding. He felt his stamina draining in real-time, prompting him to start exercising again.

    Fortunately, one thing that did go well was Yooil''s grades, which turned out quite decent. Whether he could maintain them in the future was another question, though.

    "I''m really fine."

    Take care of your health, and make sure you eat properly.

    Things were different now; everything was alright.

    Compared to a year ago, many things had changed.

    After listening to his kind aunt''s voice, Yooil hung up the phone and slowly leaned back in his chair.

    But his break didn''tst long.

    Knock, knock.

    A polite knock broke the silence. Yooil, with a resigned smile, invited the visitor in.

    "Come in."

    For some reason, Yooil''s dressing room had started to get more visitors.

    Harang visiting every break was expected, but Yooil was surprised when Byul and Hyena came by.

    In fact, when Yooil first saw Hyena looking at him outside his dressing room, he mistook her expression for anger. She was staring at him with slightly tense, sharp eyes, her mouth firmly closed.

    But when the thin lips of the seemingly aloof Hyena parted, a small, cautious voice emerged.

    "Sorry toe so suddenly"

    "Yes?"

    "Senior Harang has been boasting about you I was curious."

    ?

    Byul, arm in arm with Hyena, squinted her round eyes into crescent moons and said,

    "Would it be alright if we practice together?"

    That day, when Harang, who arrived a few secondster, saw Hyena and Byul at the door, he stopped dead in his tracks. The expression on his face was the most serious Yooil had ever seen.

    "Uh hello, Byul and Hyena"

    "Senior, you can just speakfortably, you know~"

    Byul said assertively, but Harang''s expression didn''t soften easily.

    "We asked Senior Harang how to act better"

    Byul continued after Hyena''s words.

    "Senior Harang said he improved a lot after practicing with Actor Yooil!"

    What exactly did he say?

    Harang conspicuously avoided Yooil''s scolding gaze.

    "Of course, it''s fine. My dressing room might be a bit small, so it''s better if we practice outside."

    At Yooil''s words, Hyena and Byul''s faces lit up.

    Byul''s manager, who had been anxiously standing behind her, also seemed relieved.

    Anyway, after that, even Byul and Hyena started practicing together before the shoot.

    "If everyone''s fine, shall we briefly read through today''s script?"

    "Yes!"

    "Sounds good."

    Today, Yooil began reading through the day''s shoot with Harang, Byul, and Hyena.

    Ji Eunho, who arrivedte at the set, also sneakily joined, sitting with a chair. And so, each of them became Seon Gihyeon, Harang, Hyobin, Heena, and Lee Taewoo, sitting in a circle, starting to read the lines.

    The staff, who had been eyeing each other, quietly started filming this scene with their phones.

    Finally, as they checked thest of the continuity and waited for the camera to be set, Director Kim Kyuoh also had a pleased expression.

    His mindset had significantly changed from when he first started this drama.

    In a reality where even making one movie is difficult, ignoring the wishes of the productionpany is not an option. This drama was no exception. Casting idols in the leading roles was not his choice but the productionpany''s. That''s why he initially didn''t have high expectations for the acting.

    However, a lot changed after he saw Han Yooil at the audition.

    Especially after viewing the final cut of Episode 1 yesterday, Kim Kyuoh felt even better today. The quality was even better than he had anticipated.

    <i>The synergy between the leads is better than expected.''</i>

    He tried to suppress a smile and spoke.

    "Alright, let''s start the shoot~"

    At the director''s cue, the leads of "Sing in High School" stood up with brighter faces.

    * * *

    Creak.

    The sound of the door opening announced the arrival of none other than Seon Gihyeon.

    "What''s up, ss rep? You joining in too?"

    Hyena asked with a puzzled face, while a bright smile lit up Hyobin''s face.

    "Wow, Seon Gihyeon! I didn''t know you were interested in this too!"

    Hyobin, with her short hair and round eyes, looked like a little puppy rushing over.

    Little did she know, Seon Gihyeon had joined because he was spurred on by the participation of Kim Hyobin, the top student in school.

    Seon Gihyeon''s gaze swept the interior of the club room and shed with Lee Taewoo''s.

    "You sure you''re in the right ce?"

    ""

    Instead of replying, Seon Gihyeon gave Lee Taewoo a cold stare.

    With a tsk, Lee Taewoo stood up and tilted his head.

    "Guess it''s not what you expected."

    "And you know what I was thinking?"

    "Whatever you''re thinking, it''s probably different from a model student''s thoughts."

    Taewoo wasn''t phased by Gihyeon''s cold remarks. The cheerful smile on Hyobin''s face began to fade.

    "Hey, stop it, you two. Isn''t fighting in ss enough?"

    Hyena snapped sharply, and the two fell silent. The chilly atmosphere was broken by the sudden entrance of Harang.

    "Guys! I made an awesome track yesterday!"

    Harang, with his usual sunny demeanor, scratched his head at the unexpected reaction.

    "What''s up?"

    "You never mind."

    "Let''s listen to Harang''s song first!"

    At Hyobin''s suggestion, everyone reluctantly gathered around Harang.

    Just when everyone stood with faces devoid of expectation, a drum beat flowed out of Harang''s phone. Soon, the bass and electric guitar joined in, and the music started in earnest.

    A simple yet refreshing melody.

    It was music that naturally made you nod your head.

    "!"

    In a word, it was excellent.

    "You made this?"

    "Wow! What is this?! Harang, did you really make this?"

    Hyena and Hyobin''s eyes widened as they listened.

    "Who yed the instruments? How did you get the guitar sound?"

    "I just used a program."

    Harang scratched his head and replied nonchntly. The three kids stared at Harang, dumbfounded.

    "Let''s listen to it again!"

    And so, the kids crowded around and listened to the music again. Seon Gihyeon also listened with his eyes downcast.

    He didn''t want to admit it, but it was a good track, Gihyeon thought.

    "Got a title yet?"

    "No not yet."

    "We need to write lyrics too!"

    "How about we each write some lyrics? It could be fun!"

    Amid the chattering kids, Seon Gihyeon quietly looked down at his fingertips.

    Then.

    "ss rep! You have to do it too."

    Hyobin grabbed Seon Gihyeon''s arm, her puppy-like eyes sparkling.

    ""

    Seon Gihyeon looked at Kim Hyobin with aplicated expression.

    Can''t even be the top in a regr high school, and you think you can do something big, huh?

    If you''re born my son, you should at least do that much.

    Who''s the top student in school? Ah, right. That girl, what''s her name, Hyobin. From now on, your goal is to beat that girl.

    The top student in school.

    The one thing that troubled Seon Gihyeon the most was none other than Kim Hyobin, the top student.

    The very reason Seon Gihyeon decided to join High School Superstar'' was because of Kim Hyobin.

    The camera captured Seon Gihyeon''s troubled expression in a high-angle close-up.

    "As expected."

    Director Kim Kyuoh nodded in satisfaction.

    Though Seon Gihyeon''s internal struggles were outlined in the script, tranting that into a visual narrative was another story altogether.

    The scene demanded meticulous direction, but above all, it required a delicate performance.

    If not portrayed properly, the emotional line could have be ambiguous andckluster.

    However, Han Yooil had managed to capture it perfectly.

    "Cut!"

    Director Kim Kyuoh, who had been diligently monitoring the scene, nodded in approval.

    "Okay."

    The assistant director, who had been nervously awaiting Kim Kyuoh''s verdict, eximed brightly.

    "The scene is okay!"

    "Great work, everyone~!"

    Before leaving the set, Kim Harang leaned towards Yooil and asked,

    "Hyung, did you know the final trailer for the drama came out today?"

    "Really?"

    Harang took out his phone and showed Yooil a video.

    Sing in High School

    The title, in a casual yet sophisticated white design, appeared on the screen, followed by rhythmical music as the main characters were introduced one by one.

    Then, the cut of Lee Taewoo and Seon Gihyeon facing each other appeared.

    Do you dislike me that much?

    To be honest I dislike you.

    Though it was just one line of dialogue from each, the confrontation between the two seemed quite intense due to the editing.

    Brion quietly disyed the reactions to the trailer in a corner window.

    I wasn''t expecting much, but now I''m excited after seeing the trailer;

    Same here

    33333

    Byul, I love you

    A pretty one next to another pretty one next to another pretty one

    Wow, Hyena''s beauty, what''s with that?

    The kids seem to be better at acting than I thought?!?

    I wish people would stop criticizing without even watching

    Why is everyone so good-looking? Crying here

    Ji Eunho''s angry acting is really good

    222

    Han Yooil as well

    I want to know why they are fighting right now

    "Hyung, what are you looking at? Is there a bug?"

    "It''s nothing."

    Thus, with the anticipation of each idol group''s fans and high school drama lovers heightened, the first broadcast of "Sing in High School" approached.

    However, two days before the release of the first episode of "Singin High," something unexpected urred.

    An event unfolded that not only involved the drama participants but also plunged the waiting audience into confusion.

 Chapter 33:

    Chapter 33:

    Early in the morning, Han Yooil was awakened by Brion.

    Mr. Yooil. Mr. Han Yooil.

    "What''s up."

    Han Yooil frowned as he opened his eyes. His body felt heavy due to staying upte watching a movie the night before.

    "Brion, that awakening effect"

    Before Yooil could finish his sentence, he felt a sensation as if ice water was flowing down from the top of his head. Han Yooil quickly brushed off the goosebumps forming on his arms.

    Mr. Yooil, I have news to inform you.

    "What is it?"

    I will show you first.

    Soon, a translucent window appeared in front of his eyes.

    [Bl Sea Hr Luv with B Romance (Proof Avable)]

    As Yooil looked puzzled at the cryptic title, Brion quickly added an exnation.

    It''s a post stating that ck Sea''s Harang and LoveA''s Byul are dating, and that there is evidence of it.

    <i>What?''</i>

    It was awkward, to say the least, a romantic rtionship. When observed closely, the two did not seem like they were in that kind of rtionship at all.

    Of course, it''s not that idols can''t date. Idols are human too, and fans obviously know they have a private life.

    However, knowing and epting are different matters. An idol''s romantic rtionship affects the bond between fans and the idol, leading to fans feeling deceived.''

    <i>It''s a distorted structure to begin with.''</i>

    Yooil narrowed his brow and continued reading the post.

    The author who imed to have captured evidence of Harang and Byul''s rtionship continued to list the proofs.

    [They''re in the same drama this time, you must know

    Even if they havemon ground, their rtionship is definitely not just colleagues

    (Photo) (Photo)

    Wearing the same brand clothes in the practice room. Plus, they have the same keychain on their favorite bags;

    (Photo) (Photo)

    Photos taken at the same ce on the same day but uploaded on different days]

    The post included close-up photos of a pink keychain attached to Harang''s ck bag and the same keychain on Byul''s ivory eco bag.

    A keychain with ck bead-like eyes nestled among fluffily sprouting fur.

    <i>?''</i>

    "This is."

    That was a keychain Yooil also recognized.

    A few days ago, one of the staff members had distributed it to everyone involved in the shooting, saying it was from a shop opened by his sister.

    He wasn''t usually one to attach keychains, and since it was a gift, he had just kept it in his room to take care of it.

    <i>What is this.''</i>

    Moreover, the photos said to have been taken on the same day were at a park near the shooting site. Obviously, Harang and Byul weren''t the only ones there.

    "This turns out like this"

    Real-time searches on BlueChat were filled with keywords like Harang Byul,'' ck Sea dating,'' LoveA dating,'' LoveStar evidence.''

    ""

    Honestly, it was a funny kind of bait that didn''t even seem worth rifying.

    But what concerned him was Kim Harang and Byul.

    To be more precise, it''s shooting concerns.''

    <i>Right.''</i>

    There was a shoot in just a few hours, and it couldn''t be unaffected.

    <i>What are people''s reactions?''</i>

    Based on thements and sympathies left in the online space, 83.4% believe it''s fabricated evidence, while 15.1% show a slight tendency to agree. Additionally, about 1.4% are continuously generating malicious rumors.

    <i>Have there been simr rumors about the two of them before?''</i>

    LoveA''s Byul had a scandal with de''s Ekta (real name: Kim Jiho), and ck Sea''s Kim Harang had one with Cary''s Jooi (real name: Joo Ihye). At that time, a total of 4,342 articles covered these incidents

    <i>Alright, I got it.''</i>

    With such evidence there was no need to blow things out of proportion.

    Han Yooil looked at the pink keychain in his hand.

    <i>Will this help?''</i>

    It seems like it will.

    Hearing Brion''s resolute voice, Han Yooil picked up his phone.

    Up until that moment, he was still half-doubtful about whether his attempt'' would actually be effective.

    * * *

    It was a bit early for lunch.

    HM was biting his nails instead of eating the triangle kimbap in front of him.

    With his other hand, he was browsing BlueChat, O-Tube, andmunity forums.

    <i>Damn it.''</i>

    That damned keychain!

    The suspicion that started with the keychain began to gain momentum rapidly. Some started to stretch the fact that both Harang and Byul yed puppy characters'' in their respective groups.

    <i>How is a puppy emoticon a couple''s item!''</i>

    It was beyond words how ridiculous it felt.

    Moreover, since an hour ago, O-Tube reactors started to swarm like a school of fish finding water. He was reporting these baiting attempts as he saw them, but his stress was only piling up.

    "Sigh"

    It was already hectic focusing on the public official exam, and now he had to deal with this kind of bait. It was at that moment.

    Then.

    Eh, the keychain isn''t a couple''s item?

    That was a gift from the drama staff.

    Really?

    Where did you see that??

    /1_and_only/124

    As if mesmerized, HM clicked the link. It was a link to Han Yooil''s Shining Star.

    [@1_and_only

    (Photo) (Photo) (Photo) (Photo)

    <Sing in High School> D-1]

    Four photos were uploaded on Shasta.

    The first photo was taken on set, showing Yooil sitting together with Kim Harang and Ji Eunho.

    The second photo was taken during a walk in the park. Yooil was at the center, but Harang, Byul, and Hyena were faintly visible beside him.

    The third photo was a selfie taken by the main actors, each holding the keychain. The staff''s ount was tagged on the keychain.

    The fourth photo was a solo shot of Han Yooil looking intently at the camera, wearing horn-rimmed sses.

    "Ah."

    Feeling a strong affection for Han Yooil all of a sudden, HM pressed the follow button on Shasta.

    And then he joyously began uploading posts on BlueChat.

    The bait got light-deleted lol

    For real lololol so ridiculous

    Didn''t want to get sued lol;

    God Yooil!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    By the time HM''s lunch break was about to end, the controversial post was neatly deleted.

    Those who scavenge like hyenas looking for something to bite into remained, but it was futile to cling to bait that had already disappeared.

    This was a clean wrap-up. HM could head to the study room with a much lighter heart.

    * * *

    Scanning his dimly lit phone, Kim Harang quickly nced over the faces of the staff.

    "What''s wrong, Harang? Is there something?"

    "No!"

    He cheerfully responded and put his phone away.

    <i>That was clean.''</i>

    The spark was extinguished before it could even ignite.

    Enough to not worry about it anymore.

    A serene smile appeared on Kim Harang''s pale face.

    He wasn''t the type to stress over every little thing. He had experienced countless simr scandals  if they could even be called scandals.

    But being ustomed to them didn''t mean they were nothing.

    Kim Harang thought as he liked Han Yooil''s Shining Star post.

    Indeed, a quite likable brother.

    "Shooting begins~"

    Hearing those words, Harang sprang from his seat and walked towards the bustling set.

    He saw the familiar faces of the cast, the school uniform, and the ssroom.

    "Everyone knows <Sing in High School> premieres on O-Tube at 10 pm tonight, right?"

    "Don''t forget to watch it!"

    "We love you~"

    After all the actors gathered in the middle of the ssroom set for the promotional video, the main shooting began.

    After the smooth progress of the shoot, during the break,

    Yooil lifted his head due to a persistently intense gaze.

    At the end of that gaze was Kim Harang.

    "?"

    As their eyes met, Harang smiled slyly and whispered.

    "Hyung."

    "Yes?"

    "Thank you."

    At the unexpected word of gratitude, Yooil merely shrugged nonchntly. The bright smile on Kim Harang''s face didn''t fade easily.

    And that evening, <Sing in High School> was released on O-Tube.

    * * *

    Lee Hyejin was staring at her phone. Staring didn''t make time pass faster, but it somehow made her feel less anxious.

    <i>50 seconds, 51 seconds''</i>

    10 seconds felt like 10 minutes.

    And finally,

    "It''s out!"

    Lee Hyejin refreshed O-Tube and quickly pressed the y button, gripping her phone tightly with her other hand.

    Then, episode 1 of <Sing in High School> began.

    During the drama, Lee Hyejin was surprised three times.

    First, by the sight of Seon Gihyeon wearing sses, and second, by a scene where Gihyeon, amidst the noisy ssroom, stood up and spoke in a low voice.

    Can you be quiet? It''s self-study time.

    "Wow."

    The image of Han Yooil, who had previously yed a vampire and a boy, was still vivid in her mind, but the role of a model student with sses suited him as if it was his own clothes.

    The slightly hunched shoulders and the face that seemed sensitive. Even the trembling corners of his eyes were exactly Seon Gihyeon.

    <i>He''s really good.''</i>

    And thest surprise came during a scene at the end of the drama, where a number was being sung.

    [This world is vast and

    I just keep getting lost.]

    The deep, solid voice carried the number smoothly and steadily.

    <i>Our actor could even do musicals.''</i>

    Of course, it was a drama, so there might have been some post-processing, but it was genuinely a soothing voice to listen to.

    At some point, Lee Hyejin, who started referring to Yooil as our actor'' instead of just a schoolmate,'' moved the y bar back to the beginning of the number as soon as the drama ended. She didn''t forget to actively participate in BlueChat in real-time.

    * * *

    Lee Hyejin wasn''t the only one who enjoyed <Sing in High School>.

    - O-Tube''s premiere of <Sing in High School> marks a sessful start Will it join the ranks of ssic high school dramas''?

    From Ji Eunho to Han Yooil''  A closer look at the protagonists of <Sing in High School>

    ck Sea''s Kim Harang, Sweet Dream''s Hyena receive unanimous praise for their natural acting A wless debut

    It''s better than I expected?

    A wee surprise in the drought of high school dramas

    Are the reactions really that good?

    Watched the trailer and it didn''t disappoint

    I need to watch it right now

    I''m going to save it How can you just watch 2 episodes a week, it''s tantalizing

    Exactly my thoughts

    Seon Gihyeon''s sensitive charm, why am I so smitten?

    222222

    333333

    The character intros seemed unattractive, but watching the video makes them so likable; is it because of the actors?

    Brrrr.

    Sitting in the waiting room and endlessly scrolling through the reactions that Brion disyed, Yooil was jolted from his reverie by the ringing of his phone.

    "What''s this?"

    The name shing on Han Yooil''s phone was unexpected.

    [Director Yoo Jaeho]

    As soon as Yooil answered the call, an excited voice came through.

    Yooil!

    "Hello, Director. How have you been?"

    Director Yoo Jaeho immediately got to the point with a trembling voice.

    Our movie is going to the Bugu Film Festival!

 Chapter 34:

    Chapter 34:

    Busan International Film Festival.

    One of the leading film festivals in Korea and now representing Asia.

    <The Last Diner> has been nominated for the New Currents category. New Currents is a section targeting the first or second feature-length works of directors from Asia, often selecting works of directors who have been recognized for their exceptional directing skills through numerous short films.

    "Wow"

    A sincere exmation of admiration slipped from Han Yooil''s lips.

    "Congrattions, Director, really."

    "It''s all thanks to you, Yooil!"

    "Not at all. It''s all thanks to you, Director"

    "No!"

    Yoo Jaeho cut off Han Yooil and added,

    "I''m 100% sincere when I say this. It really wouldn''t have been possible without you, Yooil."

    It was a voice filled with genuine sincerity. Han Yooil licked his lips.

    Somehow.

    It was an indescribable feeling.

    "Thank you."

    "I should be the one thanking you! Haha, let''s all have a meal together next time. It''s on me!"

    After his hearty deration, Yoo Jaeho ended the call.

    Min Woojin, who had been sitting in the waiting room, widened his eyes after hearing the conversation.

    After quickly exiting the waiting room to contact the agency, Min Woojin returned shortly after with an awkward smile.

    "I thought so, but you already knew Haha!"

    It''s not time for an official announcement yet. It will take quite some time before the press release is issued.

    "Anyway, congrattions, Yooil."

    Yooil, while listening to Brion''s voice, replied to Woojin''s words.

    "Thank you, hyung."

    The plump cheeks of Min Woojin looking at Yooil were filled with pride.

    Until just a few months ago, Han Yooil was an actor whose name wouldn''t even properly appear on the inte.

    <i>Buku Film Festival''</i>

    While Woojin was immersed in the fulfillment he felt as a manager, a light knock sounded.

    Now, Min Woojin could also tell whose knock it was.

    "Harang is here!"

    At Woojin''s words, Han Yooil nodded and got up from his seat.

    "Yooil hyung! Are we going to do the reading together today as well?"

    At some point, Harang started calling Yooil Yooil hyung.'' When Yooil once asked why, Harang cheerfully replied,

    Just because I like saying it!

    Well, whatever the reason, it was up to him, so Yooil didn''t mind.

    However, that nickname seemed to be quite an interesting topic for the other staff members.

    "Harang, you''re calling him Yooil hyung'' as a nickname, right?"

    "That''s so cute~"

    Harang responded to the staff''s questions with a refreshing smile.

    It was an expression that never failed to impress, reminiscent of the face shown to fans at a fan-signing event.

    Yooil followed Harang out of the waiting room. On the set, the main actors had already gathered their chairs and were sitting in a circle.

    "Shall we start right away if it''s okay?"

    "Yes!"

    "Alright"

    "Yes~"

    As Byul, Hyena, and even Ji Eunho nodded, Yooil took out his script.

    The director of the making-of film, holding the camera a few steps back, captured their images entirely.

    <i>Looks good.''</i>

    He looked at their image on the camera with a content smile.

    There''s no easy shooting in this world. There''s even a saying, If it''s not hard, it''s not a shoot.'' But no matter how tough it gets, if the atmosphere is good, it''s bearable.

    <i>There''s a saying that if the people are good, it''s okay even if the work is tough, and it''s not for nothing.''</i>

    And the protagonist leading that atmosphere was the actor sitting in the middle, wearing non-prescription sses.

    He didn''t talk much, but he was kind and not overly friendly, yet sensitive.

    <i>It''s amazing.''</i>

    The fact that the making-of film for <Sing in High School> was as popr as the main series itself was perhaps, unsurprising.

    "Okay, let''s start filming~"

    At the assistant director''s call, the actors stood up from their seats with a more rxed expression.

    * * *

    All the kids, except for Gihyeon, were in the club room.

    Two days ago, they hadpleted the second round of <Superstar High School> and earned the valuable result of passing.

    Now, what remained was the final round.

    However, despite the situation that should have been entirely joyful, the children''s expressions were dark.

    It was because Seon Gihyeon hadn''t shown up on the day of the evaluation.

    "What should we do Does anyone still have contact with him?"

    "Hey, don''t tell me something happened to him?"

    Half of the children were worried.

    "It''s obvious. He must have chickened out at thest moment. Everyone knows he doesn''t like us."

    "Seon Gihyeon does hate me. A lot."

    The other half thought it was intentional behavior.

    The former were Hyobin and Harang, thetter were Heena and Taewoo.

    At Heena''s cynical remark, Hyobin, who was rolling her eyes, suddenly stood up at Taewoo''s im that Seon Gihyeon hates me.''

    "Hey, stop it. We should find out what really happened before saying anything."

    Hyobin red at Taewoo with eyes wide open like an angry Maltese. Taewoo watched Hyobin expressionlessly for a few seconds and then smirked.

    "If the top student says so, it must be true."

    "Taewoo!"

    At the clear sarcasm, Hyobin was about to get angry when the club room door opened.

    The person who entered was none other than Seon Gihyeon.

    "What, I thought you left?"

    Heena''s sharp words were followed by Taewoo''s voice.

    "Speak of the tiger and he wille."

    Hyobin watched tensely as Taewoo and Gihyeon interacted. She had been the closest observer of their rtionship, which seemed to get a little better only to fall apart again and return to square one.

    <i>Please don''t fight.''</i>

    Taewoo leaned forward aggressively and then slowly approached him.

    "Hey. Why didn''t youe?"

    However, Gihyeon kept his head down, not responding to Taewoo. It was apletely different look from his usual upright posture and sharp gaze.

    "You said you''de. That you''d stand on stage. Then why did we practice? Why did you even go to the preliminary round?"

    Taewoo continued, his voice rising with each step he took closer to Gihyeon.

    Soon, Taewoo was right in front of Gihyeon''s nose.

    "Do you find all this funny?"

    ""

    "Or is it me who''s the joke?"

    Taewoo, with one corner of his mouth raised, spoke sarcastically.

    He looked at Gihyeon with eyes that had gone cold.

    "Answer me. While I''m still asking nicely."

    "Hey, Taewoo stop it."

    "Shut up, you."

    Harang, who tried to intervene, was brushed off and shrank back.

    Even then, Gihyeon kept looking at the ground.

    Hyobin looked at Gihyeon with worried eyes.

    <i>Why is he like this?''</i>

    Gihyeon''s behavior was very unlike him. Just as Hyobin was about to approach him, Gihyeon''s lips began to move.

    "rry."

    His voice was more of a strained whisper than a murmur.

    Seon Gihyeon''s lips moved again, his voice hanging by a thread, seemingly ready to snap at any moment.

    "I''m sorry."

    In the bewildered eyes of Taewoo, the reddened rims of Gihyeon''s eyes became apparent.

    In an instant, a single tear streaked down from Gihyeon''s right eye like a shooting star.

    "Hey, you"

    Taewoo''s mouth hung open. It was as if someone had whitewashed his mind; no thoughts came to him.

    "I wanted to be on stage Really."

    Gihyeon continued, his head hung low. His voice, though on the verge of breaking, continued without a break.

    "I had no choice because of my father. I''m sorry"

    Gihyeon''s father. The local congressman, known for his benevolent smile, was actually recognized by those close to him as being oppressive and a control freak. He always pushed Gihyeon, constantlyparing him with Hyobin, the top student in school.

    Taken aback, Taewoo stepped back.

    He hadn''t expected that'' Gihyeon to apologize, let alone cry.

    "Hey."

    Gihyeon still fixed his gaze on the ground.

    "Okay, got it, so stop crying."

    Starting with Taewoo''s voice, everyone began to chime in.

    "Yeah, Gihyeon!"

    "Ah! Do you want some water?"

    "Here, tissues."

    Gihyeon looked nkly at them.

    ""

    In his blurred vision, he could see the worried faces of his friends and various hands reaching out to him in a flurry.

    The turmoil, resignation, sadness, and guilt staining Gihyeon''s face gave way to a question.

    <i>Why are they all making those faces?''</i>

    Gihyeon thought they had every right to criticize him and be angry. He hadn''t shown responsibility or courtesy.

    But why.

    Why are they being like this to me?

    "Thank you."

    A vitality slowly began to return to Gihyeon''s clouded eyes.

    The camera, capturing Gihyeon in a bust shot, slowly started to zoom in on his face.

    The subtle tremble in Gihyeon''s eyes as he took in the faces of his friends, his eyes gradually cleared.

    "Perfect."

    Kim Kyuoh watched the monitor with satisfaction.

    Just as he was about to call cut, Gihyeon did something unexpected.

    "I want to be on stage."

    "!"

    "I''m sorry. I won''t run away anymore."

    Everyone looked at Gihyeon with widened eyes.

    <i>That was''</i>

    They were genuinely surprised.

    Because,

    <i>That line wasn''t in the script.''</i>

    The line Gihyeon just uttered wasn''t in the script.

    A brief silence followed.

    "Okay!"

    Kim Kyuoh called okay, then fixed his gaze on the monitor with an inscrutable expression.

    <i>Hmm.''</i>

    Kim Kyuoh generally didn''t favor ad-libs or additions to the script by actors.

    But this time,

    "Nice."

    He had known it before, but Han Yooil was indeed a smart actor. He knew exactly what he was good at.

    Kim Kyuoh shrugged and said,

    "Let''s go with this."

    * * *

    During the break at the nursing academy,

    Jin Hayoung, sitting on a chair ced in front of the ssroom, checked her phone. It was to see the message just received from her nephew.

    (Photo)

    Auntie. I''m filming today as well. Make sure you eat well. See you on the weekend!

    The photo sent by Yooil was a selfie. The blurry backdrop showed the filming equipment lined up on set.

    <i>Hmm.''</i>

    Apparently, her nephew didn''t have a talent for selfies.

    <i>But he''s handsome, though.''</i>

    While Jin Hayoung was smiling at her phone, she started to hear the voices of the students.

    "Is there anything fun these days?"

    "I really enjoyed <How We Ended Up> recently!"

    "Me too."

    "Ohe on, that''s old news."

    The youngest student in the academy lit up and spoke.

    "I''ve been enjoying something recently! Ah what was it, Sing something. I can''t remember all of a sudden! Ah, what was it?"

    Jin Hayoung''s ears perked up. Without realizing, she opened her mouth.

    "Sing in High School?"

    "Yeah! That''s it. Do you watch it too, teacher?"

    Jin Hayoung tried to suppress her rising cheekbones and replied calmly.

    "Of course."

    "Wow, me too. I thought it would be childish with all the idols, but it''s really fun."

    "Yeah, everyone acts so well!"

    "Who was it, Yooil? That guy is really good at acting."

    Jin Hayoung''s lips were now proudly raised. She felt an itch to speak.

    It should be fine to say this much, right?

    Jin Hayoung took a deep breath and spoke.

    "Actually, that guy is my nephew."

    "What, really?!"

    "Wow! Teacher, really?!"

    "Han Yooil?!"

    The ssroom suddenly became noisy.

    The students, with a sparkle in their eyes rarely seen during lessons, bombarded Jin Hayoung with questions. It was a level of enthusiasm she hadn''t seen during ss.

    Jin Hayoung looked at them with an ambiguous smile. The auntie''s self'' and the teacher''s self'' shed inside her, but eventually, the former won.

    "He just sent me a photo, want to see?"

    "Wow! Awesome!"

    "Want to see!"

    She couldn''t help being a doting aunt.

    And so, Jin Hayoung''s ss that day concluded with stories about Han Yooil.

 Chapter 35:

    Chapter 35:

    On a sultry day in June,

    "Am I your manager or what?"

    Kim Jinwoo handed over a few books with a displeased face. They were Han Yooil''s books that had been left in his school locker. As Yooil couldn''t empty his locker due to his busy schedule, Jinwoo had picked them up for him on thest day of the semester.

    "Thanks."

    "If you''re thankful, you should at least buy me a meal."

    Yooil pulled something out of his bag.

    "Here."

    "What''s this?"

    "Your meal."

    Jinwoo''s expression, initially devoid of any expectation, transformed in an instant.

    In Kim Jinwoo''s hand was LoveA''s album. He saw a short message written in round, bubbly handwriting.

    [Kim Jinwoo! Thank you for loving LoveA >< Always be happy~]

    For a few seconds, Jinwoo was frozen, then his jaw moved like a broken wooden puppet.

    "Th-this this!"

    If this moment were animated, surely Jinwoo''s eyes would''ve popped out like springs.

    [- LoveA Byul]

    Upon confirming Byul''s signature, he began to rejoice as if about to fly.

    Is he that happy?

    Yooil couldn''t help but chuckle.

    * * *

    A few dayster,

    Director Jang Jaeyi gave Han Yooil a smooth smile, one that conveyed friendliness without losing professionalism.

    "Yooil, you''re looking good?"

    "Yes. It''s because the semester ended."

    "Aha."

    Jang Jaeyi, chuckling as if amused, quickly got to the point.

    "You know, right? About the promotional variety show offer for Yooil."

    Han Yooil nodded.

    "Yes. The director mentioned it before the contract."

    With only two more shoots left for <Sing in High School>, which had aired up to its third episode, the cast was offered to appear in promotional variety shows, independent of the drama''s ongoing sess.

    Especially, UBN, which participated in the drama''s production, stipted the condition for the cast to participate in one of its variety shows.

    "Woojin, do you have the material we received earlier?"

    "Yes? Oh, yes!"

    Sitting beside him, Min Woojin stood up abruptly and rummaged through his bag. Soon, apany iPad emerged. Yooil received the iPad from Woojin.

    On the pad was the title <Roll it Fun!>

    <Roll it Fun!>,monly referred to as RollFun,'' is an action variety show and one of the most popr programs in Korea. Led by Producer Jo Hyungjin and Writer Na Gihye, it recently aired its 234th episode

    <i>Just the main points.''</i>

    Each episode turns a different city into a giant game board,'' where participants be pieces'' on a board game. The show is known for giving its guests a hard time through various quests.

    As Brion exined, <RollFun> was notorious, with rumors iming its name could have originated from joyfully rolling the guests.'' It was a variety show known for being physically demanding.

    "If you''re worried, feel free to say so. If it seems too hard for Yooil, we can cut it off on our end. After all, there''s no use saying that all'' cast members have to appear."

    Hearing Director Jang Jaeyi''s words, Yooil shook his head. While it was indeed a bit daunting, he had no intention of avoiding it needlessly.

    If you participate, there''s a 75.8% chance of achieving positive oues, andpared to the existing promotional strategy for <Sing in High School>, it''s the most cost-effective

    Honestly, Yooil was somewhat swayed by Brion''s analysis.

    "I''d like to try it."

    "Really? Are you sure?"

    Jang Jaeyi scrutinized Yooil''s face, her eyes a mix of concern and anticipation.

    "Okay, then."

    She rose from her seat, promising to send the script as soon as it was avable.

    "Though once the shoot starts, the script is practically useless, but still. Don''t worry too much, Yooil. Just be yourself. That would be more interesting."

    Leaving that cryptic message, Jang Jaeyi left the room.

    * * *

    "Whoa?!"

    "Yooil right?"

    "Oh my, you''re quite early. There''s still a lot of time before the call time."

    At the <Roll it Fun!> filming site.

    Arriving early at the set, Yooil greeted the busy Producer Jo Hyungjin, Writer Na Gihye, and the ADs before exploring the setup.

    A wide mat wasid out on the grass, and in the center was a colorful, rainbow dice.

    <i>Are we going to roll that?''</i>

    Yes, that''s the Exciting Dice''.

    The dice, silly yet fitting for the show, was as tall as Yooil''s thigh.

    The mat on the grass resembled a board game, reminiscent of a nostalgic game that once plunged many children into global real estate investing.

    "Ah, Yooil. Jaehyuk just arrived, want to greet him?"

    "! Yes, I''ll go and say hello."

    Kim Jaehyuk was UBN''s leading MC and a pivotal member of <Roll it Fun!>.

    "Good to meet you, senior."

    "Ah, hello."

    Kim Jaehyuk, with his slender build and stylish dressing, didn''t look his age in his fifties at all.

    Yooil felt more at ease with Jaehyuk''s calm demeanor, a contrast to the personality he saw on TV.

    "I''m Han Yooil. It''s my first time in variety shows, so I''mcking in many ways. Please take care of me."

    Yooil''s words softened Jaehyuk''s eyes.

    "Oh, no need to feel pressured! But you''re quite early, aren''t you?"

    "Ah, yes."

    Yooil hesitated for a moment, then spoke up.

    "I thought being at the set early might ease my mind since it''s my first variety show shooting."

    The rest of the cast, unlike Yooil, had already experienced various variety shows.

    <i>And ck Sea has even been on this show before.''</i>

    He didn''t feel as confident as them, but he didn''t want to stand out for the wrong reasons or disrupt the atmosphere. That''s why Yooil had gone over the <Roll it Fun!> summary with Brion and arrived early at the set to familiarize himself with the locations where the shooting would take ce.

    "Still, you''re quite early for the call time. You''re diligent~"

    "I prefer being early."

    "Is that so?"

    <i>Han Yooil. The new actor, right?''</i>

    Kim Jaehyuk quickly sized up Yooil as they shook hands. Indeed, his appearance was exceptional, but beyond that, there was apelling aura about him.

    And above all, he seemed diligent and modest, which Jaehyuk liked.

    <i>A well-rounded guy.''</i>

    Jaehyuk smiled warmly, patting Yooil''s shoulder affectionately.

    He made a mental note to look after Yooil a bit more during the shoot.

    As the call time approached, one by one, the cast members started arriving. Soon, the shooting for <Roll it Fun!> began.

    The existing members of <Roll it Fun!>, donning green tracksuits, stood in a semi-circle in front of the set cameras.

    A giant dice was ced on therge mat designed after a board game.

    "Wow, the weather is really nice~"

    "When are the guestsing?"

    "Sweet Rabbit!"

    "Blue Six!"

    "ck Sea!"

    Amidst the noisy chatter and shouts of their favorite idol groups, Kim Jaehyuk pped his hands to gather attention.

    "Alright, everyone. Today we have guests as fresh as this weather!"

    Kim Jaehyuk elevated his voice with good cheer.

    "Let''s introduce today''s yers!"

    As the five existing members cheered, five guests in yellow tracksuits appeared in front of the camera.

    The set of guests, dressed in matching outfits, were Han Yooil, Ji Eunho, Kim Harang, Byul, and Hyena.

    "Hello~"

    "Nice to meet you!"

    As the <Sing in High School> cast politely greeted, the existing members beamed with pleasant smiles.

    "Oh my, oh my! What day is it today?"

    "Hey Juha, wipe your drool, will you?"

    Chided by Jaehyuk, the woman pretended to wipe her drool, continuing her enthusiastic charade.

    "Wow, it''s like opening my eyes anew!"

    This was Jung Juha. In her early twenties, she was known as a mysterious actress but solidified her ce as a friendly TV personality with her unique sense of humor and down-to-earth nature.

    Following Jung Juha''sment, the other members chimed in.

    "Jung Juha, you''re really funny, aren''t you?"

    "Here she goes again~"

    "Don''t you always do that when idolse on?"

    Amid the lively chatter of the existing members, the <Sing in High School> cast exchanged awkward nces.

    "Alright, our special yers for today. Could you each introduce yourselves?"

    Kim Jaehyuk pointed to the board game-like matid out in front. Yooil straightened up, serious.

    <i>It''s starting.''</i>

    The self-introduction, an unavoidable feature of RollFun'' episodes, as analyzed by Brion.

    It wasn''t just about introducing oneself. Right after the self-introduction, participants had to do something to a randomly chosen song. Whether it was dancing, singing, or even beatboxing anything.

    The idols, being professionals, naturally moved onto the mat and started their introductions.

    "ck Sea. Ji Eunho."

    As if on cue, a trot song started ying.

    [I''m I''m I''m your Superman~

    No matter what anyone says, I''m your man~]

    Once a ringtone staple among the older generation, I''m Superman'' by the trot star Hyun Woong.

    Ji Eunho naturally grooved to the characteristic duple meter rhythm of the trot, smoothly transitioning into an impressive popping dance.

    <i>Wow.''</i>

    Popping to a trot song.

    Despite hisnguid expression, Ji Eunho''s dance was full of life, and he didn''t forget to end it with a stylish gesture as the music concluded.

    Next up was Byul.

    "Love~ A! I''m Byul!"

    As soon as Byul finished her introduction, thetest song released by ck Sea, <Eureka>, started ying.

    Byul gave a yful squint and began dancing powerfully. Her small frame belied the incredible energy of her performance.

    "Wow, Byul really dances well!"

    "The best~"

    Even Han Yooil, forgetting he was filming, sincerely apuded.

    The atmosphere continued to rise. Next up was Hyena, who approached the front with a soft smile. Usually known for her nk expression, Hyena''s eyes sparkled remarkably in front of the camera.

    "I''m Twinkie Hyena!"

    Simultaneously with the introduction, an OST from the drama <Fake Lovers> that swept Asia a decade ago started ying.

    [I really like you]

    Instead of dancing, Hyena dramatically approached Kim Jaehyuk, acting as the drama''s terminally ill female protagonist, and then pretended to faint.

    [I don''t want to forget you]

    As the music ended, Hyena quickly found the camera that was close-upping her, brushed her hair back, and winked.

    Han Yooil was slightly shocked by the idol'' Hyena he witnessed. However, Kim Harang next to him wasn''t flustered; instead, he nodded as if to say it was quite good.

    <i>Did they all practice this?''</i>

    Han Yooil started to worry.

    Then it was Kim Harang''s turn.

    "The mascot of Byngo, Harang!"

    Yooil watched Kim Harang performing a slick routine to LoveA''s <Rocket LOVE> with a pale face.

    "Harang is so cute~"

    "How can someone dance so well?!"

    After sincere praise poured in, the members'' heads slowly turned. Their faces, ready to tease, were filled with yful mischief.

    "Now, next is"

    Next was Han Yooil''s turn.

    Yooil stepped forward, feeling the gaze of the members like predators eyeing their prey.

    "I''m Han Yooil. Nice to meet you."

    As Yooil bowed to greet, music started ying.

    Hearing the corny yet lively intro, Yooil recognized the song immediately.

    <You''re the BestYOU>

    A few years ago, the girl group JellyJelly'' pushed this song with its unique B-grade sentiment and became a hot topic.

    At that moment, the usually quiet Brion spoke up.

    Now''s your chance, Mr. Yooil!

    What?''

    Simultaneously, the dance video of JellyJelly appeared before his eyes, in mirror mode no less.

    This level of kindness was almost unnecessary.

 Chapter 36:

    Chapter 36:

    <i>Wow impressive.''</i>

    Harang couldn''t believe that JellyJelly''s signature dance was being performed by Han Yooil. Trying to hold back hisughter, he bit his lip. It seemed the production team had put a lot of thought into teasing Han Yooil.

    The B-grade concept girl group''s music provided the background for the reserved rookie actor flusteredly shaking his body and shyly sending a heart at the end''  even this clip alone was enough for a teaser.

    <i>How''s he going to handle this?''</i>

    Harang watched Han Yooil, who seemed frozen as the music yed.

    At that moment, Harang saw Yooil''s expression change. Closing his eyes and taking a short breath, he suddenly started to get into position.

    <i>What?''</i>

    Harang couldn''t believe his eyes.

    Indeed, Han Yooil took the signature pose of <You''re the BestYOU> and began to move.

    [You''re the best, the best, the best, the best YOU YOU YOU!]

    Yooil recreated the cute dance moves of shooting a finger gun into the air.

    ""

    [You''re mine, mine, mine, mine YOU YOU YOU!]

    As he wlessly executed the dance, including the move of shaking his body with hands on his chest, even the staff behind the camera cheered.

    "Wow!"

    Harang was genuinely impressed. Yooil''s dance felt quite professional, despite his seemingly detached expression.

    The unexpected sess of Yooil turned the set aze in an instant.

    "Wooow!"

    "Hahaha! Yooil dances so well!"

    "That''s charming!"

    As if nothing had happened, Han Yooil calmly bowed and returned to his ce.

    If it weren''t for his reddened ears, one might believe he was truly unaffected.

    "Good job, hyung."

    Yooil looked at Harang, who whispered to him while showing a thumbs-up.

    ""

    Receiving such apliment from someone who actually danced well didn''t sit right with him.

    For someone who''s just been introduced to dancing, you performed above average.

    ""

    Han Yooil simply hoped the editing wouldn''t turn out too bizarre.

    * * *

    [@jinnnny I can''t believe I''m waiting for a live broadcast of Roll it Fun!]

    Lee Hyejin, with a face full of excitement, stared at the television.

    Roll it Fun!

    She looked at the title of the variety show written in bubbly letters.

    <i>It''s been a while since I watched this.''</i>

    If it weren''t for Han Yooil''s appearance, she wouldn''t have bothered to watch it live.

    Lee Hyejin remembered the <Roll it Fun!> trailer she saw a few days ago.

    She knew that Han Yooil and the <Sing in High School> cast would be appearing thanks to an article that surfaced a few days ago. But she was shocked the moment she saw the trailer.

    [You''re the best, the best, the best, the best YOU YOU YOU!]

    "Yeeek?!"

    An odd sound escaped Hyejin''s mouth the moment she saw the video.

    JellyJelly''s groundbreaking debut song, <You''re the BestYOU>, was still asionally mentioned inmunities.

    In the video, Han Yooil was performing JellyJelly''s dance moves with a resigned face.

    But despite his expression, his body was full of energy.

    The video ended with a refreshing finishing move and a white caption popping up.

    Lee Hyejin embraced the snack bag with a happy face.

    "It feels like a vlog."

    Originally, "RollFun" was a program aboutpeting to be the first to reach the finish line. Naturally, it resembled a chase, but Han Yooil seemed uninterested in thepetition. His uniquely rxed and leisurely atmosphere felt not so much boring as it was peculiarly intriguing.

    Then, behind the screen capturing Yooil, a small dot grew increasinglyrger.

    It was Ji Eunho, sprinting at full speed on a pink kick scooter that barely reached his thighs.

    Huh?

    Han Yooil''s eyes widened. He turned around and smiled softly.

    But Lee Hyejin saw it.

    She saw his eyes slightly sparkle.

    I should put in some effort too.

    With those words, Han Yooil suddenly started pedaling at an astonishing speed.

    Even the cameraman, carrying the camera beside him, was taken aback by the speed.

    The screen showed Ji Eunho, sweating profusely with a serious face, gripping the handle of the pink kick scooter, and Han Yooil, leisurely pedaling beside him.

    Their subtle rivalry, neither too much nor too little, made Hyejin burst intoughter, momentarily forgetting the stress of her assignments.

    Harang and Hyena, who were leading at the beginning, got walking'' in the second mini-game, significantly changing the flow of the game. The original members proposing shady deals to the guests were also amusingly edited, leaving no room for boredom.

    In the middle of it all, Ji Eunho, whonded on a shortcut tile,'' overtook all the participants by running and took the lead, but not for long.

    Wow, is that Yooil?

    He''s insane!

    Following Ji Eunho, Han Yooil, who got a child''s kick scooter, caught up with him at an incredible speed.

    The cast, trapped in buses and taxis during rush hour, watched their race with excited screams.

    Lee Hyejin looked at the live chat.

    Han Yooil is quite theedian lol

    What, did Ji Eunho''s agency tell him to win at all costs?

    Why does it fit so well when they only add burning CG when they appear lol

    I just watched Sing in High School'', what''s with this gap lol

    Wow, is that Seon Gihyeon? Can''t recognize him

    Never seen participants in RollFun'' run so passionately with a princess kick scooter before

    Lee Hyejin looked at the chat with a satisfied face. Everyone was falling for Han Yooil''s charm!

    She smiled proudly as she watched her follower count increase in real time.

    * * *

    Meanwhile, at the same time.

    Han Yooil turned his gaze away from the television with a baffled expression. He felt embarrassed at times and wanted to change the channel, but he couldn''t bring himself to do it, knowing how much Jin Hayoung enjoyed it.

    "People seem to like it more than I expected."

    That''s right. As anticipated, the majority of responses are positive. The viewership of the previous episode of Sing in High School'' also increased by 180%, and the viewership of the next episode is expected to rise as well.

    "RollFun" was approaching its end.

    As Han Yooil and Ji Eunho were keeping each other in check while running, Byul found thest shortcut and rushed to the finish line on inline skates.

    "She mentioned she used to y inline hockey when she was young."

    The sight of her, wearing a helmet and speeding in a low posture, was quite impressive. Her serious expression, so different from her usual cheerful demeanor, felt unfamiliar.

    The production team seemed to think the same, showcasing Byul crossing the finish line from various angles.

    As the background music from a famous sports movie yed, she almost looked like an athlete about topete in the Olympics.

    "Oh my, that kid is really good~"

    Jin Hayoung, sitting next to Yooil, also eximed in admiration.

    Today''s MVP, Byul!

    With Byul removing her helmet and performing a ceremony with her group''s dance, "Roll it Fun!" came to an end.

    * * *

    - Sing in High School'' hits No. 1 in real-time videos on Otube The idols'' counter-attack

    K-Teen Romance strikes a chord overseas! Sing in High School'' tops global buzz

    Roll it Fun!'' achieves highest viewership in 59 episodes, Producer Jo Hyungjin says, "Effect of Sing in High School cast is significant"

    [This Week''s Hot Video] Han Yooil''s refreshing You''re the Best YOU'', Roll it Fun!'' trailer sparks buzz

    Han Yooil skimmed through the articles Brion showed.

    <i>That''s a relief.''</i>

    The filming of Sing in High School'' was nearing its end.

    "Pleasee for the music recording when you''re avable next week."

    The assistant director added that all the soundtracks would be released along with the final episode of Sing in High School.''

    Yooil, feeling closer to the cast of Sing in High School after the variety show appearance, exchanged greetings and left the set.

    Manager Min Woojin: Yooil, I''m in the underground parking lot!! Come down to the 2nd basement floor elevator, you''ll see me right away.

    Manager Min Woojin: And I have good news!!!

    After leaving the most secluded restroom in the building (the one Harang had told him about), Yooil checked Min Woojin''s message.

    Then, his phone rang again.

    Manager Min Woojin: Got a call from Director Gu Chanik!!!

    <i>Director Gu Chanik?''</i>

    Director Gu Chanik.

    An indispensable name in the Korean film industry. He had been invited to the Cannes Film Festival and was a regr at the Berlin Film Festival whenever he released a film.

    Feeling excited, Yooil put his phone in his pocket and was walking down the corridor when a clear voice echoed through it.

    "Are you out of your mind?!"

    "Jisoo, please, keep it down"

    "No, hyung. This is about using unknown rookies to cut my fee, isn''t it? Isn''t it?"

    A pleading man''s voice mingled with another that sounded quite angry.

    Yooil, intending to pass by without interfering, halted at the next words.

    "It''s not just any director, it''s Director Gu Chanik He''s not the kind "

    "So what, Han Yooil? What''s he to the director, his hidden child or something?"

    "Please! Jisoo! It''s not just us here. Let''s move somewhere else and"

    "F**k! Aren''t you my manager?! Whose side are you on, right now?"

    Yooil''s steps stopped.

    Aren''t you going down?

    <i>I was nning to just leave but''</i>

    A slight smile formed at the corner of his mouth.

    <i>I''m intrigued.''</i>

    I should see who they are.

 Chapter 37:

    Chapter 37:

    Director Gu Chanik, as much as he shied away from public appearances, was shrouded in rumors. There were whispers about his nasty temperament, stories of office windows shattering during fights with actors.

    However, one undeniable fact was the excellence of his films.

    In terms of artistic quality and box office performance alike.

    <i>Now that I think about it, it''s been a while since he released a film.''</i>

    Hisst work, ck Nails,'' was released eight years ago.

    Han Yooil quietly nodded. Time may have passed, but Gu Chanik remained a beloved name among cinephiles.

    "Isn''t it strange, no matter how you think about it? At this point, isn''t he losing his mind?"

    Yooil headed towards the source of the shrill voice. He saw two figures near the emergency exit.

    It was only after getting closer that Yooil realized he knew one of them.

    "Hello, senior."

    "Ah, damn you startled me."

    The appearance of Han Yooil seemed to greatly surprise the two men. Particrly, the slender man who appeared to be a manager looked as if he might vomit any second. He seemed to recognize Yooil.

    "What?"

    A man with tanned skin and thick double eyelids spoke sharply.

    <i>Seems like he doesn''t recognize me.''</i>

    Yooil took a step closer.

    "It''s nice to meet you. I''m Han Yooil."

    "Ah."

    Recognition didn''t seem to change his demeanor much. Yooil continued to smile as he looked at him.

    Brion spoke in a stiff voice.

    That''s actor Son Jisoo. Just as the rumors say.

    Son Jisoo. He had been an actor since he was a child.

    Twenty years ago, he debuted in the EBC drama Open the Magic Door'' alongside Park Younghyun from JJ Entertainment, and he is currently 28 years old.

    Yooil, listening to Brion''s exnation, locked eyes with Son Jisoo. Jisoo was sizing him up.

    "Looking forward to working with you."

    "Eh, whatever."

    His manager was almost in tears, alternating his gaze between Yooil and Jisoo. The sight was almost pitiful.

    Han Yooil spoke calmly.

    "I guess we''ll be seeing each other more often."

    "What do you mean?"

    "I heard you were going to be part of Director Gu Chanik''s next project."

    Technically, he had overheard it.

    "Hah."

    Son Jisoo scoffed, a sound teetering between mockery and a sigh, then roughly ran his fingers through his hair.

    "Did you already get a call from Director Gu Chanik?"

    Taking Yooil''s silence as affirmation, Jisoo shook his head.

    "Sorry to hear that. Looks like you''re getting your hopes up for nothing."

    "Getting my hopes up for nothing?"

    "In my opinion, it seems like he''s just using an unknowing rookie to cut down production costs. Don''t get swayed by it."

    Son Jisoo spoke slowly, feigning a rxed demeanor.

    <i>He should have gotten the hint by now.''</i>

    Son Jisoo considered himself a rare gem among male actors in their twenties, known for his acting prowess. Throughout his career, he''d received ample praise for his performances and, since bing an adult, had been the lead in a variety of genres. Precisely, he''d only taken lead roles.

    However,tely, he was feeling the pressure, both internally and externally. The recent performances of the dramas he starred in weren''t ster, leading to a dearth of scripts offering him lead roles.

    It was in this frustrating moment that he received the casting offer for Director Gu Chanik''s new project.

    But not as the lead, rather the friend of the lead. And to be overshadowed by a rookie, at that!

    There will be more opportunities in the future, don''t think too negatively. That''s just how this industry is. You know that, right?

    "Well, I guess."

    Son Jisoo looked at Han Yooil with raised eyebrows, irked by his unusually calm demeanor.

    Yooil kept smiling without batting an eyelid.

    Eventually, Yooil spoke,

    As far as I know, Director Gu Chanik is not someone who often changes his mind once hes said something.

    "Huh?"

    A soothing, almost pacifying voice flowed from Yooil''s lips.

    "And, senior. Don''t think too negatively. Sometimes, the characters around the protagonist can be more interesting."

    With a sparkling smile, Yooil echoed Jisoo''s own words back to him.

    He could say this because he had just seen thest message sent by Min Woojin.

    Manager Min Woojin: The director wants to cast you as the lead!!!!

    Manager Min Woojin: Ive arranged a meeting for you when youre free.

    "Have a good day."

    After politely saying goodbye, Yooil disappeared into the elevator that had just arrived.

    Son Jisoo, trembling with clenched fists, started swearing loudly as soon as Yooil was out of sight.

    "That Was he making fun of me just now? What the hell is he? Ha, wow F**k Ah, damn it!"

    He began to vent his frustration by kicking a vending machine.

    Completely forgetting his own rudeness, the manager watched his actor with a sigh. He felt like he was aging years in a single day.

    <i>I''ll definitely quit next month''</i>

    He gazed at the ceiling with a distant look in his eyes.

    <i>* * *</i>

    A few dayster, in thete afternoon.

    Yooil got out of the car and entered a house with neatly tended gardens and white walls.

    It looked like a cozy home, but the reality was different. This was Director Gu Chanik''s vi, where he stayed and worked when he was immersed in a project. Only a select few were invited to this ce.

    "Hello, Director. It''s nice to meet you."

    As soon as Han Yooil entered Director Gu Chanik''s studio, he greeted the director.

    Director Gu Chanik, who was sitting on an old but stylish leather sofa, slowly lifted his head.

    He looked even more formidable than in photos. Despite his age, his eyes were like those of an eagle eyeing its prey.

    Without responding to Yooil''s greeting, Director Gu Chanik slightly lifted his left hand in a gesture beckoning him closer.

    Yooil slowly approached him.

    The sofa seemed to be for three people, and in front of it was a long wooden table. Apart from the sofa, there was no other furniture suitable for sitting.

    As Yooil stood in front of him, Gu Chanik waved his hand again, looking quite bothered.

    "Just sit down."

    "Oh. Yes, thank you."

    Yooil sat down beside him without a word. He expected the old furniture to creak, but the sofa was sturdier than he thought.

    He silently brewed oolong tea, then ced a small cup in front of Yooil.

    "I don''t like teen stars, you know."

    "Pardon?"

    "Joo Bonhee, Yoo Heejae Starting from those types, all these so-called teen stars are the same. Relying solely on their looks without a shred of acting skill, their arrogance reaches the skies."

    Joo Bonhee and Yoo Heejae were stars who were active 40 years ago, the so-called bookmark'' stars.

    After brief careers in the entertainment industry, their names had faded into memory.

    Yooil was slightly taken aback by the sudden mention of these veteran actors. Brion too seemed to be silently assessing the situation.

    Yooil decided to just nod and listen attentively. Gu Chanik continued.

    "It''s the same nowadays. The world has changed so fast But you see, poprity corrupts people."

    But then again, maybe that''s just an old man talking.

    Yooil quietly observed Gu Chanik, who was mumbling like a fortune teller.

    Gu Chanik turned his head to look at Han Yooil.

    "Do you know why I chose you as the lead?"

    "To be honest, I''m not sure."

    "Is that so?"

    He chuckled, sounding deted, then searched for something on his desk.

    "Here. Take a look."

    Gu Chanik handed Yooil a stack of papers.

    <i>This is''</i>

    A script.

    On the cover, written in cursive, was the title.

    [The Mysterious Garden]

    The title alone had Gu Chanik''s signature all over it. Han Yooil''s heart started to beat faster.

    "May I read it now?"

    "Of course. That''s why I gave it to you."

    Gu Chanik answered with a faint smile. As he sipped his pale green tea, Yooil slowly turned the pages.

    <i>Wow.''</i>

    The story was interesting. Surprisingly sophisticated for a script written by a 70-year-old director.

    Hyukjin, a florist with a suspicious past, and Sooil, a smart but brash part-timer, work together in the flower shop. The story, which starts as a calm healing tale, gradually shifts.

    The turning point is the florist owner''s secret. As it is revealed, the story transforms into an action thriller.

    In the silent studio, where only the ticking of the clock could be heard, Yooil flipped through the script page by page.

    Finally, he reached thest page.

    Yooil''s eyes sparkled as he looked at the director.

    "I''m not just saying this It''s really interesting, Director."

    "Huh, you read it already?"

    His eyes, full of disbelief, locked onto Yooil. But as Yooil began to recite the content of the script, Gu Chanik''s doubts quickly faded.

    It''s an unusual work. Quite different from Director Gu Chanik''s previous films.

    Yooil agreed with Brion''s assessment.

    "It feelspletely different from the scripts you''ve written before."

    "You noticed that? Well, of course."

    There seemed to be a mix of pride and mncholy in his voice.

    "It''s not my work."

    "Oh, is there a different writer?"

    "Yes."

    He took a slow sip of tea, then continued with a sigh.

    "The writer of this script is my daughter. I did add a bit to it, though."

    "!"

    Yooil, startled, pressed his lips together, trying not to reveal his surprise.

    Brion spoke calmly.

    If it''s the daughter of Director Gu Chanik known to the world, it would be Gu Hyeyoung, who died in a car ident 8 years ago.

    <i>Yes.''</i>

    Gu Hyeyoung was the daughter Gu Chanik had in his forties, and she passed away in a tragic ident in her mid-twenties.

    Director Gu Chanik continued slowly,

    "A few years back, while cleaning out my daughter''s room, I found this I felt that if I didn''t make this into a film, I''d regret it until my dying day."

    Yooil''s eyes deepened.

    Director Gu Chanik shared various snippets of stories. He was someone who had neverid bare his own story to anyone, not even to those close to him.

    Yooil, listening intently and nodding slowly, then spoke softly,

    "The character Sooil in the script I get the feeling he resembles the writer a lot."

    At Han Yooil''s words, Director Gu Chanik looked at him with a slightly surprised expression.

    "Yes. He''s very much like Hyeyoung."

    How did he know that?

    But the moment Director Gu Chanik saw Yooil''s face, he realized.

    Han Yooil wasn''t just understanding his situation; he was genuinely empathizing.

    With all his heart.

    Suddenly, a memory surfaced in Director Gu Chanik''s mind, a story he''d almost forgotten because he''d only caught a glimpse of it.

    It was about Han Yooil''s family history.

    "I have something like that too."

    Yooil opened his palm slowly and continued,

    "It''s about this size, a notebook the size of my palm. Soaked in mud and water, so you can''t make out anything in it but still, it''s the most important thing to me."

    "That is"

    As if reading Director Gu Chanik''s expression, Yooil nodded.

    "Yes. It was thest thing I had with my parents."

    That worn notebook was the most precious item Yooil had.

    Director Gu Chanik moistened his lips with the tea.

    The tea, once hot, had now cooled down.

    "You."

    Director Gu Chanik slowly shifted his gaze. Yooil''s eyes were shining clearly.

    The old director felt a certainty.

    <i>Yes, if it''s this person''</i>

    He seemed like someone who could solve the homework he''d been putting off for so long.

    "Would you be willing to take on the lead role in my film?"

 Chapter 38:

    Chapter 38:

    Director Jang Jaeyi emerged from a meeting at Gu Film'', a productionpany led by Gu Chanik, with a flush of excitement on his face and murmured, "Impressive, isn''t it?" Gu Chanik had taken a strong liking to Han Yooil, remarkably so. Initially, it seemed that Chanik had arranged the meeting with Yooil with a casual, Let''s just meet, don''t expect much,'' attitude.

    "Now, he insists he won''t do it without Mr. Yooil" Jaeyi pondered, a sly smile ying on his lips. Considering it was Gu Chanik, known for his exacting standards, Jaeyi was curious about how Yooil had managed to charm him to this extent. At that moment, Yooil, standing beside Jaeyi, lookedpletely oblivious to the situation.

    With a light chuckle, Jaeyi continued, "The director, notorious for his meticulousness, will soon call only the actors. The shooting is likely to start in autumn."

    "Understood," Yooil replied.

    "You have a schedule today, right Mr. Yooil?"

    "Yes!" The response came from Min Woojin, his eyes sparkling, "You have a recording for a number from Sing in High School'' in two hours!"

    "Oh, right. I forgot about that," Jaeyi nodded in realization, then gently patted Yooil''s shoulder. "Good luck."

    It didn''t take long for Yooil to understand the meaning behind Jaeyi''s look. Recording songs was proving to be more challenging than post-recording. In Sing in High School,'' a song was featured in each episode, and Yooil had to record three of them. The feedback was thankfully specific, making the task a bit less daunting. The professionals gathered had indeed lived up to their reputation, as the music''s quality was quite high. The guide track initially provided to the actors was good, but the final product was noticeably different.

    "Wow." Even though Yooil wasn''t particrly knowledgeable about music, he could tell that the soundtrack would appeal to many.

    On the day the final episode of Sing in High School'' was released, along with its soundtrack, HM turned on the TV for a modest dinner. HM switched directly to OTube, paying no attention to other channels. As the Sing in High School'' subtitle started appearing on the screen, HM thought, Ah, this is exciting.''

    Initially, HM had started watching the drama just for Kim Harang. Teen dramas weren''t really HM''s taste, especially the cringe-worthy ones. However, the drama proved to be enjoyable. It wasn''t as juvenile as expected. Especially as the lead actors, including Harang, improved their acting skills over time. HM straightened up as Seon Gihyeon appeared in a close-up.

    "He''s been good from the start."

    And then, HM waspletely engrossed in the drama.

    * * *

    The team led by Hyobin was in the finals of Superstar High School''. The theme of the final round was Remake'', focusing on how well the original music could be rearranged into the contestants'' own style. The host pped his hands and announced, "Next up is a team with quite a unique name, Haphazard Squad''!" Haphazard Squad'' was a name Hyena came up with after giving up on finding amon point among the team members.

    Hyena, with her hair sportily tied up, and Hyobin, with a scarf wrapped around her head, were the first to ascend the stage, followed by Harang, wearing an outfit reminiscent of sportswear. Behind them, Seon Gihyeon and Lee Taewoo, who had just reconciled temporarily, climbed onto the stage. The team members faced the audience, whose interest seemed to have waned after the previous performances.

    It''s getting a bit boring Seems like the earlier team will win, right?

    What should we eatter?

    Observing the murmuring audience, Seon Gihyeon slowly closed his eyes. When he reopened them, his teammates were looking at him. A smile gradually appeared on Gihyeon''s face, a stark contrast to his usual cold and expressionless demeanor. And then, the apaniment began to y.

    The judges'' eyes widened upon hearing the familiar tune.

    <i>This song is''</i>

    It was Shin Hyuncheol''s Run'', a song well-known by anyone who had lived through the 80s.

    "Yeah, you''re right

    I don''t know anything"

    The intro, capable of inducing nostalgia in anyone, was transformed with a synth sound, providing a peculiar variation. While retaining familiarity, the arrangement shed some of the original music''s heaviness.

    "All we know is just this moment"

    Hyobin, who had started singing at the front, quickly moved back, making way for Harang, who appeared with mboyant steps.

    "The time we clench our fists and roll our feet"

    At that moment, the drama''s audience gasped. The sparkling poms, which everyone thought were just part of the costumes, shone as they revealed themselves.

    "Let''s roll up our sleeves and run vigorously"

    All five students raised colorful poms high into the sky.

    "Feeling the refreshing breeze, like walking above the clouds"

    Wow.

    The judges watched their cheerleading in amazement.

    They really nailed the concept.

    The judges exchanged looks and nodded in agreement.

    Shin Hyuncheol''s Run'', often used as a cheering song, made the cheerleading concept the perfect choice. Led by Kim Harang, the team members synchronized their dance moves perfectly, maintaining their expressions and breath control even while hopping around, as they sang the highlight.

    "Let''s run until we''re out of breath, with all our might

    Let''s run until the end of the road appears"

    HM leaned forward as if about to be sucked into the screen, unable to blink.

    In that moment, HM realized something profound. It wasn''t that she disliked teen dramas; she simply had a taste for good dramas.

    "Even if the day isn''t bright

    The running won''t stop"

    The once bickering kids were now in sync, looking into each other''s eyes, moving together to the sound of each other''s footsteps and breath, as if they were one.

    "It''s okay if we fall"

    Lee Taewoo and Seon Gihyeonyered their harmonies, supported by the colorful voices of their teammates.

    "Because we''re running together"

    Thest image on stage was the backs of the five students jumping high towards the sky, marking the end of the performance.

    HM sat there, dazed, watching the kids hugging and celebrating their first-ce victory.

    <i>What is this what''s happening?''</i>

    Why was his heart racing when it was just kids bouncing around on the TV?

    It was an inexplicable feeling.

    * * *

    Watermelon Chart 3rd ce.

    OTube Music 2nd ce.

    Bug Chart 1st ce.

    The moment the drama ended, Run'' surged to the top of various music charts. With the streaming of Sing in High School'' on Newblix, the poprity of the soundtrack only grew stronger.

    Got hooked while watching the drama Why is the song so good?

    I don''t watch Singin High, but I listen to the song every day

    Everyone''s main job is done so well;;

    Guys, Singin High is really fun

    Please request a student council award for Byul

    But why is Han Yooil so good at singing? Thought he was a singer

    Themunity''s reaction was overwhelmingly positive,rgely thanks to the quality of the song. A virtuous cycle was created: people watched the drama, then listened to the songs, and those who fell for the songs started watching the drama.

    "Yooil, have you seen this?" Yooil''s attention was drawn to Min Woojin''s phone by his exmation.

    On the phone was the Newblix site.

    "Wow."

    "Is that all you have to say?"

    Min Woojin eximed, his face flushed with excitement.

    "We''re number one, number one!"

    "Indeed."

    The Newblix ranking, which had started in the top 10, steadily climbed until it reached number one in Korea within a week, and soon after, it entered the top 10 non-English-speaking countries.

    Yooil, who already knew about the Newblix ranking thanks to the swift Brion, had to put in his utmost effort to produce a reaction that would satisfy Min Woojin.

    It was an expected result for Newblix to be number one in Korea.

    While Brion considered it a foregone conclusion, Sing in High School'' achieved even better results than the productionpany had anticipated. It wasn''t long before Kim Kyuoh, the director, called personally.

    Yooil, I know that thanks to you, the other actors were able to fully demonstrate their abilities.

    Han Yooil had to take a moment to find the right words in response to Director Kim Kyuoh''s words.

    "Oh, no, it wasn''t just me."

    Humble. Let''s all go on a trip together when our schedules clear up. Everyone seemed to like the idea, right?

    After expressing his gratitude and hanging up the phone, Yooil flopped down on his bed. Was this the so-called reward vacation he had heard about? "Feels good," he thought as he was about to close his eyes when he heard a subtle voice.

    Mr. Yooil.

    <i>What?''</i>

    Tomorrow is the script reading for The Mysterious Garden''. I rmend you wear a scarf to bed for your throat''s health.

    <i>Understood.''</i>

    * * *

    The next morning.

    It was the day of the script reading for The Mysterious Garden''. Yooil entered a conference room in Sangam and was guided to his seat by the production staff.

    "Hello, Mr. Yooil, you can sit here. The director and the assistant director will sit over here!"

    He slowly surveyed the table. There were nine chairs around therge table. It seemed that aside from the flower shop owner'', yed by Hwang Yiwon, and flower shop part-timer'', yed by Han Yooil, there would be a reading with about five supporting actors.

    The flower shop owner.

    A character full of secrets, blunt yet quirky, to be yed by the middle-aged protagonist, Hwang Yiwon. Hwang had debuted 23 years ago in Pretty Brothers'' and had since maintained a steady career, holding the title of flower boy actor''. His acting was also said to improve as time went by.

    While Yooil was lost in thought, supporting actors Joo Heeyoung and Kim Miso entered the room.

    "Hello, seniors."

    "Ah, hello~ Please take your seats. Nice to meet you~"

    After exchanging greetings with them, Yooil sat back down and began reading the script when he noticed a tanned face peeking through the door gap. It was Son Jisoo, followed by a manager who seemed new on the job, judging by his slightly clueless demeanor and contrasting appearance to the pale-faced manager he had seen in the hallway before.

    <i>It seems like the manager has changed.''</i>

    The average tenure of Son Jisoo''s managers is 31.5 days.

    <i>Can that even be called tenure''?''</i>

    It was then that Son Jisoo''s voice was heard.

    "Yooil, long time no see?"

    Yooil''s eyebrows slightly raised. It was an unexpectedly gentle voiceing from him.

    "Hello."

    "It''s our first meeting since that time. How have you been?"

    As Son Jisoo asked warmly and took a seat next to Yooil, the door opened at just the right moment. It was Director Gu Chanik. Noticing him, Son Jisoo began to treat Yooil even more amiably, wearing a kind smile.

    In his most recent interview, Son Jisoo mentioned Director Gu Chanik as the person he respects the most.

    I see.

    <i>This shooting is going to be interesting in many ways.''</i>

 Chapter 39:

    Chapter 39:

    "Director, Actor Hwang Yiwon has arrived!" announced a staff member, to which Director Gu Chanik nodded in acknowledgment. Alongside him, Son Jisoo adjusted his posture.

    Soon after, Hwang Yiwon entered the room, his tall stature and long legsmanding attention as he stepped into the conference room. His high nose and deep-set eyes naturally drew gazes.

    "!"

    The epitome of self-care.

    The original handsome actor.

    Thevish adjectives instantly made sense, given his appearance. The rumors of his unchanged beauty since his debut were evidently not unfounded.

    When Hwang Yiwon spoke, his deep voice filled the room.

    "Nice to meet you. I''m Hwang Yiwon."

    Just as Han Yooil was about to stand and greet him, Son Jisoo took the initiative.

    "Nice to meet you, senior! I''m Son Jisoo!"

    "Han Yooil. A pleasure to work with you, senior."

    Hwang Yiwon quietly observed Son Jisoo and Han Yooil before epting greetings from the others.

    At the long table, everyone was positioned to face each other, with Director Gu Chanik sitting in a ce where he could oversee everyone. Hwang Yiwon and Han Yooil sat closest to him, while Son Jisoo, Joo Heeyoung, and Kim Miso were seated alongside them.

    Yooil, a bit surprised at the gentle demeanor of Son Jisoo, thought to himself how unexpectedly amiable he seemed.

    Given his experience, he seems to be a skilled actor.

    Yooil unfolded the script, seeing it for the first time since the initial reading with Director Gu Chanik.

    "After the reading, feel free to take the scripts in front of you!"

    "Yes!"

    With a collective response from the actors, the reading began.

    * * *

    [S#4 Flower Shop (Daytime)

    The door of the flower shop opens.

    Sooil, a somewhat troublesome-looking young man, enters.

    Hyukjin, who was cleaning indifferently, slowly raises his head.

    Hyukjin: Are you looking for something?

    Sooil: Are you hiring part-time workers here?

    Hyukjin eyes Sooil, who hesitantly adds anotherment.

    Sooil: I came to apply for the part-time job.

    Sooil bes a bit anxious due to Hyukjin''s silence.

    Sooil: I know you dont usually hire, but listen, Ive worked at inte cafes, cafes Well, I can do anything as long as I get paid.

    Hyukjin: We''re not looking for part-timers.

    Sooil: Eh?

    Hyukjin: No need. For part-timers.

    Sooil: Whaat?!]

    The script continued for over a page.

    Son Jisoo bit the inside of his cheek while reading the script.

    <i>No matter how I look at it, I''m a better fit.''</i>

    He was more masculine and good-looking than that pale guy, right? Above all, he was confident in his acting skills.

    <i>You never know. Things might change after the reading.''</i>

    Son Jisoo had devoured every rumor about Director Gu Chanik. It was true that Chanik didnt easily change his mind once it was made up, but that was only if his chosen option'' was the best.

    Hiding his smile, he looked at Han Yooil.

    "Hyukjin slowly raises his head."

    As the assistant director read the stage directions, Hwang Yiwon looked at Han Yooil with a dry gaze.

    "Are you looking for something?"

    The tone was firm but not hostile, with an almost soldier-like vibe. Above all, the fact that it was Hwang Yiwon delivering the lines made it most impactful. Son Jisoo watched him with unusually lively eyes.

    <i>Yeah. That''s the level a male actor should reach.''</i>

    To Son Jisoo, Hwang Yiwon was somewhat of a role model. He secretly hoped to be an actor like Hwang Yiwon in 10 or 20 years.

    It was then that Han Yooil spoke.

    <i>Huh?''</i>

    Son Jisoo thought for a moment he had seen wrongly. But no, something had changed in Han Yooil, who just moments ago sat with an ordinary face.

    Sharp, cold, but somewhat immature.

    He now had the face of a high school graduate, brash and young.

    "Are you hiring part-timers here?"

    His posture was nted, his line delivered almost carelessly.

    The top actor Hwang Yiwon'' had transformed into Hyukjin from The Mysterious Garden'', his eyes narrowing ever so slightly as he scrutinized Sooil.

    Slowly, yet piercingly.

    Gulp.

    Feeling the pressure of that gaze, Sooil swallowed hard. Still, his defiant expression didn''t falter.

    "I came here for the part-time job."

    Hyukjin silently observed Sooil.

    It was like a wolf eyeing a young puppy.

    Feeling a bit intimidated by that intensity, Sooil continued, trying not to show it.

    "I know you don''t usually hire. I''ve worked at PC cafes, cafes Well, I can do anything as long as I get paid."

    Finally, Hyukjin spoke.

    "We''re not looking for part-timers."

    "What?"

    The words hit Sooil like a bolt from the blue.

    Hyukjin spoke firmly.

    "No need. For part-timers."

    "What?!"

    Normally, Sooil tried desperately to hide his emotions, but in moments of surprise, his expressions were vividly revealed. His confusion and helplessness were palpable.

    "Look, look at this."

    Saying so, Sooil pulled a crumpled piece of paper from his pocket.

    "See here. The ad for hiring part-timers! It says toe by July 13th."

    Hyukjin''s face remained unchanged as he nced at the paper with dry eyes.

    ""

    In reality, the paper Yooil pulled out was an old receipt from his pocket. But in the moment of acting, a new truth is born. The paper pulled out by Sooil bes, undoubtedly, a worn job advertisement that had passed through many hands.

    Hyukjin, having scrutinized the advertisement thoroughly, slowly raised his head.

    "This is fromst year."

    "Really? You''re not lying?"

    Sooil, looking at Hyukjin again, realizes once more that he''s not the kind to lie.

    It was then.

    A very brief, different expression shed across Sooil''s face.

    "I understand. I''ll leave."

    Hyukjin, who had been observing Sooil''s expression, slightly furrowed his eyebrows.

    It''s impossible to know exactly what stirred his heart. However, there was a feeling that he shouldn''t let him go just like this.

    Yes The feeling was simr to encountering a drenched stray dog in the rain.

    Sooil, with a look of deep regret like a stray dog that has just lost its home, stood before Hyukjin. Unintentionally, Hyukjin found himself speaking.

    "Come in from tomorrow."

    "Really?"

    Sooil, who was about to turn away with a sigh, looked back at Hyukjin with a skeptical face.

    "Why?"

    "Didn''t you want to work?"

    "That''s right, but"

    Sooil, knowing he wasn''t an easy person to deal with, tilted his head slightly and continued.

    "Why did you suddenly change your mind?"

    Their eyes met.

    The atmosphere grew so tense it almost felt suffocating.

    "Huh."

    Son Jisoo let out a breath without realizing it.

    A moment of silence passed.

    Sooil let out a chuckle.

    "So I juste in from tomorrow?"

    Hyukjin watched Sooil, who spoke yfully, with an exploring gaze. Still assessing Sooil.

    But slowly, he nodded.

    "See you tomorrow."

    "Then."

    Sooil nodded back and left.

    <i>Wow what was that?''</i>

    The assistant director''s eyes widened as he nkly stared at Sooil leaving.

    <i>Why is he so good?''</i>

    It wasn''t even a physical movement, but the acting was palpable.

    <i>It''d be a sess if he can perform like that on set.''</i>

    When Director Gu Chanik first specifically mentioned Han Yooil, honestly, it was surprising. Given Chanik''s character of not usually watching tform dramas like OTube or OTT, and not a director known for casting rising new actors.

    <i>Director you really had it all nned out.''</i>

    The assistant director was once again astonished by Gu Chanik''s discernment and sneakily nced at Chanik''s tightly shut lips. However, Chanik was also surprised, not that it was apparent. He was quietly admiring.

    In The Mysterious Garden'', Sooil was a character teetering between boyhood and adulthood. Han Yooilyered another dimension onto this character.

    A brash, impatient, and intolerant, yet somehow not entirely dislikeable kid''.

    As a result, the Sooil that Han Yooil portrayed with his expressions and tone was even more faithful to the script than the script itself.

    <i>Smart kid.''</i>

    He concealed a barely visible smile and flipped to the next page of the script.

    * * *

    After the reading session, the actors with schedules left swiftly.

    Only Son Jisoo and Han Yooil remained.

    "Ah, actors. There''s something I need to discuss regarding the shooting."

    The assistant director held up an iPad, disying several photos.

    At first nce, it looked like a beautiful hill covered in pink flowers.

    But on closer inspection, it resembled rice or reeds.

    "Pink muhly, you all know it, right?"

    <i>Pink muhly?''</i>

    ording to the current ssification system of the, it belongs to the Poaceae family in the order Poales, a perennial grass that is native to the central United States and used forndscaping

    Now that he thought about it, he seemed to have seen it once or twice in the news.

    The assistant director continued with a bright face.

    Weve been monitoring this location since the location hunting phase, and if we want to shoot here, we need to do it before September. So, we will stick to the original schedule for the other episodes, but well have to move up the shooting for episode 16. Its only a shooting day for the two of you, so it shouldnt take too long!

    Understood.

    Yes~

    Based on the schedules of the cast, the shooting will likely take ce within the next two weeks.

    Yooil nodded slowly.

    There was plenty of time to prepare.

    Son Jisoo secretly smiled at Han Yooil''s rxed expression, his eyes cold enough to startle his manager.

    <i>I''ll have to show what I''m made of.''</i>

    How he had brought down those high-nosed rookies in the past.

    * * *

    <i>Ah.</i>

    How did ite to this?

    The office worker stared nkly at the iPad in front, wondering where things had gone wrong.

    <i>It''s all because of that y.</i>

    <i>From the Ground''</i>

    If it weren''t for that y, they wouldn''t have sought out a show like Sing in High School''.

    And certainly, they wouldn''t have spent a precious holiday capturing drama scenes.

    But ironically, that time didn''t feel wasted at all.

    "Ha Gihyeon"

    The office worker groaned while looking at the captures of Sing in High School''.

    Watching this drama, they realized once again that Han Yooil was an actor who could effortlessly take on roles other than peculiar ones like vampire'' or boy'', like a student.

    Although the actor''s younger age did prick at the office worker''s conscience

    "Honestly, it''s criminal to act like this and expect people not to like it."

    After convincing themselves with this strange logic, the office worker yed the video again.

    Just then, a notification popped up. It was from BlueChat.

    The office worker had started using this SNS mainly to follow Han Yooil''s fandom, but it turned out to be more fun than expected. The fact that there were others who passionately followed the same actor brought joy to the office worker.

    They quickly navigated through their phone, and a BlueChat post that reshared an article appeared.

    [@jinnnny (Photo) My actor is shooting a new project https://.yshnews.star/1123]

    The link led to a news piece stating that Han Yooil had been cast in Director Gu Chanik''s new film, The Mysterious Garden''.

    <i>Another new project?</i>

    Though the office worker preferred watching Newblix at home over going to the cinema, they wished to see Han Yooil''s work on the big screen.

    <i>I wish it would be released soon.</i>

    With a fluttering heart, the office worker reyed the teen drama they had watched over and over again.

    It was indeed a sweet holiday.

 Chapter 40:

    Chapter 40:

    The college student''s vacation seemed long yet short.

    [@jinnnny Seon Gihyeon can only be yed by Han Yooil, the casting is truly a stroke of genius]

    Even though it had been a while since thest episode of Sing in High School'' aired, Lee Hyejin was still immersed in the drama, like everyone else who was a fan of the show.

    Her peaceful time watching the making-of films was interrupted by an rm from her phone.

    ssmate Lee Hana: Hyejin! What are you nning to take this semester? Professor Han''s ss is open, do you want to take it together?

    Ah.

    The smile that had formed on Lee Hyejin''s face vanished in an instant.

    <i>Im too busy being a fan.''</i>

    The thought of real life interrupting her fan activities already started making her feel mncholic.

    Ah the vacation is too short.

    At the same time, someone else was having the exact same thought as Lee Hyejin.

    Just to remind you, Mr. Yooil. Tomorrow is the course registration period.

    Just like that, the good mood quickly dissipated.

    Whats up, Yooil? Is the pasta not good?

    Did you bite into a peppercorn?

    Han Yooil listened to his friends'' concerns and guesses at the same table.

    Its nothing.

    Yooil was currently at a dining ce with his university friends.

    As usual, Kim Jinwoo, Kang Hana, and Hwang Riu joined him.

    With Kim Jinwoos military enlistment approaching, they decided to meet tomemorate it.

    Being with his university friends after practically living on set gave him a sense of being a college student again.

    Hey, Yooil. How is Hwang Yiwon in person?

    Hes handsome, of course.

    Tell me in detail. How long are his eyshes, how big are his hands, what kind of water does he drink!

    Kang Hana''s passionate question made Kim Jinwoo look at her with puzzled eyes.

    I get the eyshes and hands, but why do you want to know what water he drinks?

    Thats what you want to know when you''re a fan.

    Kang Hana had been a long-time fan of Hwang Yiwon. She had been a fan since her middle school days.

    The atmosphere he must be really handsome and cool.

    Don''t forget, you''ve got a handsome actor sitting right in front of you, guys.

    Kim Jinwoo said teasingly, causing Kang Hana to giggle.

    That, of course, I haven''t forgotten. Its still amazing~!

    At the same time, she firmly stated that a friend and a fan object were different.

    Anyway, if its Director Gu Chanik, the quality of the work is guaranteed.

    It sounds like itll be interesting.

    Kang Hana and Hwang Rius words made Han Yooil nod.

    Yeah. You can look forward to it.

    Honestly, even if he had yed a supporting role instead of the lead, he would have dly taken it, as the script was that interesting.

    Yooil also analyzed characters other than his own Sooil''.

    Simply because it was enjoyable.

    I guess spoilers are out of the question?

    Cant you at least give us a hint of what it feels like?

    As an actor involved in the production prior to release

    <i>I know.</i>

    Han Yooil preemptively stopped Brion''s lecture and shook his head.

    Of course, it was absolutely not allowed.

    Watch it in the theaterter.

    Yooil silently continued eating his pasta amidst his friends teasing.

    * * *

    Days passed.

    After the semester began, an unusual phenomenon started urring at Wonmyeong University.

    Students were aimlessly loitering around the humanities department.

    It all started with a post on the university''s anonymousmunity board saying Han Yooil was spotted at the school.

    Just saw Han Yooil

    [He''s so damn handsome and fit af, damn, handsome people should stop working out]

    OMG, where did you see him?

    Just in front of the Woldong Hall earlier

    Did you get an autograph?

    but I did take a photo. He nodded when I asked if it was okay.

    OMG you better post that photo or I swear, it''s a crime against humanity.

    Here you go

    [My face is covered lol

    (Photo)]

    OMG

    Life is so unfair

    Han Yooil''s face is brighter than my future

    Mr. Yooil, please bump into me just once

    Take Koreannguage ss, he''s auditing!

    That''s a bit much

    But seriously, how does Han Yooil

    manage to shoot continuously and still attend college?]

    And he''s seriously diligent

    Overachiever;;

    Secretly, I heard he''s living his second life

    That''s the only exnation

    Can''t exin it otherwise

    Ugh

    Lee Hyejin, wandering around the humanities department while browsing the universitymunity posts, felt the harsh reality of the fan''sw.

    She discovered, toote, that her schedule didn''t match Han Yooil''s at all.

    * * *

    The first shooting day of The Mysterious Garden.''

    Han Yooil admired the vast spread of pink waves through the car window.

    <i>So this is pink muhly.''</i>

    The sight of it swaying like waves with the wind was mesmerizing.

    <i>It would have been nice to visit a ce like this with my aunt at least once.</i>

    Maybe they would visit together after this shoot. His aunt would surely love it.

    It''s been a week since the semester started, Mr. Yooil. Currently, you have three assignments to submit, two of which are group presentations

    Haha.

    Min Woojin looked worriedly at Yooil, who wasughing powerlessly.

    You okay, Yooil?

    Of course.

    Yooil took a deep breath and stretched. Then he slowly made his way to the set.

    The bustling set was in full swing with camera and microphone setups, and the staff was busily moving back and forth.

    Hello, Director.

    Ah, youre early.

    After greeting Director Gu Chanik, Yooil turned his attention to the filming team.

    The filming team, equipped with what looked like a parachute but was actually a steadicam, warmly received Yooil''s greeting.

    You all are working hard too.

    Not at all~ Youre the one working hard, Mr. Actor.

    Next to the team checking the equipment, Director of Photography Jeong Myungjinughed heartily. He had been working with Director Gu Chanik for a long time.

    Jeong Myungjin liked Han Yooil quite a bit.

    In the filming industry, it wasmon for actors to treat the production staff, especially the directing team, as NPCs. The onset and offset chatter among the staff about such behavior was a usual urrence.

    The glittering image perceived by the public was far from the daily realities of a filming set.

    However, there had never been any ufortable rumors about Han Yooil.

    <i>All the sets he''s been on so far had nothing but good things to say about him.''</i>

    Of course, for Jeong Myungjin, the best kind of actor was one who could produce a clean, no-NG, okay shot.

    <i>I hope this one goes well too.''</i>

    With that thought, Jeong Myungjin shrugged his shoulders.

    "Its time for standby"

    "Wheres actor Son Jisoo?"

    The call time was at 4 PM, but the shooting hadnt started yet because Son Jisoo hadn''t arrived.

    Hasnt he arrived yet?

    Yes I contacted his manager, and they said he would be here soon.

    The assistant director, sensing Director Gu Chaniks tension, answered while sweating.

    And then, a little after 4:05 PM, Son Jisoo finally got out of the van.

    Hello~ Hello~

    Son Jisoo greeted everyone with a rxed face and signaled his manager with a nod.

    Hyunsoo, let''s get this done quickly.

    It''s Suhyun, not Hyunsoo.

    Whatever.

    The plump manager, who gave Son Jisoo a displeased look, got off the van carrying an armful of takeaway coffee.

    Sorry for beingte. Just went to grab some coffee~

    <i>This makes me a thoughtful actor, right?''</i>

    Pleased with himself, Son Jisoo beamed with satisfaction as he scanned the filming location.

    Coffee now?

    We need to start the test shoot right away

    Didnt we all just have coffee a while ago?

    He didnt expect this kind of reaction.

    Son Jisoo tried to hide his confusion and scratched his head.

    Director Gu Chanik cut through the awkwardness.

    Let''s leave the coffee forter. Let''s start with the test shoot.

    Seeing the unimpressed expression on Gu Chanik''s face, Son Jisoo realized something was amiss.

    Ah. Yes! I''ll get ready right away.

    He wiped the cold sweat secretly and hurried to the makeup station.

    And finally, the shooting began.

    * * *

    Son Jisoos character was Choi Bin, the childhood friend of Park Sooil.

    The camera slowly followed Choi Bin, who was walking through the bushes with a worried face. Then, the camera moved in front of him, revealing his face.

    Choi Bin, who had been walking blindly, spots someone. His ck eyes fill with emotion, changing from worry to relief.

    He says in a sigh-mixed voice.

    Thought I lost you.

    The camera shows Choi Bins perspective.

    A vast expanse of pink muhly. The back of a man looking at the beautiful pink waves is shown.

    It was a strange, yet profoundly beautiful and solitary scene.

    The man slowly turns around.

    The assistant director, monitoring on a 17-inch screen, also unwittingly bit his lip.

    <i>I thought Son Jisoo was good, but</i>

    Han Yooil was different from the start.

    He seemed in and kind when seen in profile pictures or met in person, but the Han Yooil now had an edgy sharpness about him, as if getting too close might cut.

    Yooil, or rather Sooil, observed Choi Bin. Then he spoke.

    Why did youe?

    Is that all you can say to a friend?

    Choi Bin retorted, somewhat heatedly. But he immediately regretted it.

    After all, he hadn''te to fight with Sooil.

    Didnt you give up on college?

    Yeah.

    You know that college is for geniuses. Other people are dying to get in there. Youre kicking it away when others are spending money and pulling strings to get in?

    Genius, huh.

    Park Sooil shifted his gaze to the clear blue sky. Choi Bin felt like his frustration was about to explode.

    Think it over properly. Didnt you also want to go there, studying hard through middle and high school?

    Youre crossing the line, arent you?

    Yeah. I need to cross the line.

    The words left a barely visible crack on Sooils face.

    Same scene, new cut.

    A full shot showing both characters against the background appeared on the monitor.

    Director Gu Chanik, along with the script supervisor and the assistant director, watched the screen in silence.

    Choi Bin strides forward. The moment he crosses an unseen line, Sooil speaks.

    No.

    "What?"

    I can''t do it.

    What do you mean by that?

    I''m no genius or anything. All I am is a fool who just knows how to follow forms and orders.

    You

    Getting treated like a genius wears me out.

    The camera closely captures Sooil''s face, trembling with anxiety.

    Leave.

    Through Sooil''s shoulder, the blurry figure of Bin looking at his back is shown on the screen.

    You''ll be fine. Youre doing well now and will in the future too.

    Park Sooil!

    Choi Bin calls out Sooils name, a mixture of frustration and anger in his voice. But Park Sooil doesnt look back, as if turned to stone, as if he had no ce to return to.

    Cut.

    Director Gu Chanik quietly calls cut and reviews the monitor with a critical eye. A few momentster, he removes his headphones. His face shows satisfaction.

    Okay.

    <i>Wow. Amazing.</i>

    The assistant director suppressed the excitement and thought.

    <i>I was sure there would be a dy!''</i>

    Thats why extra time was allocated in the shooting schedule. Up to now, finishing this quickly during a shoot with Director Gu Chanik was rare.

    The staff, who had been tense, visibly rxed as the scheduled shooting wrapped up unexpectedly early.

    We were nning to shoot scene 34 after dinner, but can we start a bit earlier, actors?

    Thats fine with me.

    Lets start with actor Son Jisoo then! We need to align the close-up and handheld shots first.

    Unlike Yooil who answered right away, Son Jisoo bit his lip nervously.

    Ah. I''m sorry.

    Hm? Why.

    At Director Gu Chaniks question, Son Jisoo shrank even more and answered in a small voice.

    Actually, I havent fully memorized the script for scene 34 Not that I havent learned it at all! Just give me 10 minutes, please.

    After an ufortable silence.

    Director Gu Chanik cleared his throat.

    Director of Photography Jeong Myungjin spoke nonchntly.

    Setting up the camera will take a while anyway, so the actors can take a break.

    Ahem.

    Director Gu Chanik stroked his beard, clearly not pleased.

    I was nning to check the screen from various angles before shooting this scene. It would be better to have the actor present for the test shots.

    Son Jisoo felt a pang of regret.

    <i>Damn it This isnt what I wanted.</i>

    He had put aside his pride to join the cast of a Gu Chanik film'' as a supporting actor. Thest thing he wanted was to make a bad impression on the director.

    <i>What should I do? Should I just suggest doing it while reading the script?</i>

    As Son Jisoo was rapidly brainstorming, someone spoke up.

    Director.

    The silence was broken by none other than Han Yooil.

    If its okay with you, I think I can do it.

 Chapter 41:

    Chapter 41:

    Everyone looked at Yooil in surprise, but the most shocked was Son Jisoo.

    <i>What?!''</i>

    Director Gu Chanik raised his eyebrows in disbelief.

    You will?

    The assistant director cautiously asked Yooil.

    You might not know the lines well, are you sure?

    Thats okay.

    Thanks to practicing the same scene multiple times with Brion yesterday, all the lines came to mind without even trying to memorize them.

    <i>Didnt expect to use it this way though.</i>

    Ive memorized all the lines. I think I can do it.

    !

    Hearing Yooils confident reply, Director Gu Chaniks face lit up with amusement.

    Well, if youre that confident, lets see it.

    Son Jisoo looked at Yooil with a crumpled face.

    100 scenes in the script.

    Yooils lines alone made up more than 30% of it.

    <i>He memorized his lines and mine?</i>

    It seemed impossible.

    It had to be a bluff.

    Yet, Son Jisoo felt uneasy. Despite knowing he should focus on his script, his gaze kept drifting toward Yooil.

    Alright, everyone, please take your positions!

    Meeting Director Gu Chaniks smile, Yooil stood in front of the camera.

    The scene to be shot was a mid-movie moment.

    A scene where Choi Bin, having failed to persuade Sooil at the flower shop,es to find him again.

    <i>He must have a reason for being so confident.''</i>

    Director Gu Chanik watched Han Yooil on the monitor with narrowed eyes.

    Camera rolling-

    Scene 34, take 3, test~

    Action!

    Han Yooil opened his eyes.

    Not as Park Sooil, the part-timer in The Mysterious Garden'', but as his friend, Choi Bin.

    Hey. Park Sooil.

    Choi Bin briefly closes his lips, as if filtering through what he wants to say.

    Then, he continues.

    What are you thinking, seriously? Whats with the flower shop, and that weird owner?

    Son Jisoo, who had been folding his arms while watching Han Yooil, blinked rapidly.

    <i>What?</i>

    He vaguely thought Han Yooil would mimic his acting.

    But Han Yooils tone was strangely different from how he had performed.

    <i>Did he actually research it?</i>

    Then he shook his head.

    That couldnt be. How could the lead actor have time to analyze another character too?

    ""

    Son Jisoos script in hand started to crumple a bit.

    Are you really going to keep living like that? Are you satisfied with that?

    Choi Bin takes a step forward. Emotions that he tried to suppress flood his face.

    Why are you doing this? Arent you sorry to your deceased mother?

    In the next moment, Han Yooils toes slightly lift, as if someone has grabbed his cor.

    It looked as if he had been grabbed by the scruff.

    !

    <i>Acting like that too?</i>

    The assistant director, watching the monitor, lifted his head in astonishment.

    The actor he saw was no longer Han Yooil.

    <i>Choi Bin.''</i>

    Not a question of how can he act as Choi Bin?'' but rather how could he not be Choi Bin?'' Such was the convincing nature of the performance.

    Choi Bin slightly lifted the corners of his mouth before speaking.

    Why do you care?

    Despite the seemingly rxed smile, a small tremor was visible around his eyes.

    <i>!</i>

    All the staff held their breath.

    Before they knew it, they were no longer looking at Han Yooil but at Choi Bin.

    You call that a question?

    Tears slowly began to well up in Choi Bin''s eyes.

    Because you''re my friend, you bastard.

    Thest word flowed out like a sigh.

    As that sentence ended, a single tear fell from Choi Bins right eye.

    The clear drop slowly moistened his cheek as it rolled down.

    Cut.

    Director Gu Chanik spoke.

    It felt like air had finally returned to the previously vacuum-like atmosphere of the set.

    Phew

    Only then did the assistant director exhale the breath he had been holding, still looking at Han Yooil with astonished eyes.

    <i>I knew he was a good actor, but</i>

    He hadnt expected this level.

    The assistant director nced at Son Jisoo, who seemed equally shocked.

    <i>A clear victory.</i>

    Everyone on the set would have agreed.

    Not that there had been apetition between the two actors.

    Director Gu Chanik nodded with a faint smile.

    He''s good.

    Thank you.

    Yooil wiped his tears and smiled.

    He had no idea that analyzing the other characters with Brion would prove so helpful.

    Let me know whenever you need me, Mr. Yooil.

    <i>Thank you.</i>

    Han Yooil took a gulp of cold water.

    At that moment, he heard Brions even-toned voice.

    Level two objective 69% achieved.

    * * *

    <i>Damn it</i>

    Son Jisoo was biting his nails.

    He hardly noticed how the remaining shoot went.

    He was so preupied watching Han Yooil perform as Choi Bin that he couldn''t even focus on his own lines.

    <i>I thought it was just bravado!</i>

    What irritated him more was the reaction of the staff around him.

    The difference in the atmosphere when Han Yooil actedpared to when he did.

    That difference was palpable.

    <i>Damn it.</i>

    The manager, noticing Son Jisoos tense demeanor, cautiously spoke up.

    Would you like some water, sir?

    Didnt I tell you I hate lukewarm water?

    Oh, right

    The manager''s voice carried a familiar but always disheartening tone. Dejected, the manager fumbled to put the water away.

    Just give it to me.

    But you just said you dont want lukewarm water

    "Ah, I told you to give it to me first!"

    ""

    Son Jisoo gulped down the water and thought to himself,

    <i>Maybe I should pretend to be friendly.''</i>

    Even if you''re good at acting and gain the trust of the staff around you, in the end, you''re still a neer.

    "Hyunsoo, give me my pouch."

    "I''m not Hyunsoo, I''m Suhyun."

    The manager muttered in a low voice and handed the pouch to Son Jisoo. Checking his appearance in the mirror, Son Jisoo confidently stood up.

    <i>I know how to handle neers.''</i>

    Son Jisoo decided to wait for the moment when everyone was busy preparing to leave after the shooting.

    And when the time came, Son Jisoo slowly approached Han Yooil.

    Yooil was oddly staring into space.

    <i>What''s with him? Daydreaming?''</i>

    Son Jisoo approached Han Yooil and suddenly spoke to him.

    "Mr. Han Yooil."

    He thought Yooil would be a bit surprised by the sudden call, but Han Yooil didn''t seem startled, as if he knew Son Jisoo woulde.

    "I saw you were working hard on your acting today. Had a lot of time?"

    "Rather than that, the script was interesting."

    Son Jisoo''s expression hardened for a moment but then he smiled softly and spoke.

    "Ah, really. I usually don''t make such mistakes Maybe I''ve been too busytely. Ah, sorry! It must have been tough for you?"

    "No, it was enjoyable."

    "Haha."

    Son Jisoo looked around and spoke loudly, taking a step closer to Yooil.

    "The thing I said before. You''re not worrying about it, right? I was in a bad mood that day and might have been a bit sensitive. Don''t take it to heart. Just saying, in case."

    "Not at all."

    Right. That''s how it should be.

    Son Jisoo patted Yooil''s shoulder with a satisfied look.

    "Yeah, it''s good to get along with the people you work with. Do you like drinking? Let''s have a drink sometime. Oh, no. How about we go today? I know a good ce."

    Usually, when he says this, most people reluctantly follow.

    Then, Han Yooil smiled slightly and opened his mouth.

    "Ah, I don''t really drink. I don''t like it much."

    "Huh?"

    Son Jisoo, who was about to cheerfully drag him along, looked at Yooil with a bewildered face.

    "And I have an advertising meeting tonight It''s a pity."

    He didn''t look the slightest bit regretful. Son Jisoo, unable to hide his irritation, retorted,

    "What kind of advertisement?"

    "GINVERG You probably know it better than I do."

    Facing Son Jisoo''s widened eyes, Han Yooil asked with a clear face,

    "Right, senior?"

    Son Jisoo opened his mouth wide and forced a smile.

    "Knowit."

    How could he not?

    GINVERG was the fashion brand he had been a model for until justst year.

    "Then, have a good evening, senior."

    Watching Yooil''s retreating figure, Son Jisoo clenched his teeth.

    <i>Damn it.''</i>

    It had been a while since hispetitive spirit was ignited.

    <i>Right. Actorspete with acting.''</i>

    He rushed to his car and began furiously reading the script.

    <i>Let''s see. Han Yooil.''</i>

    I''ll make you taste defeat through acting. I''ll make you cry in frustration in front of me!

    Son Jisoo''s manager nced at his actor, who was intensely reading the script with fiery eyes.

    <i>Ha''</i>

    With a shallow sigh, the manager took advantage of the moment Son Jisoo was engrossed in the script to pull out a worn notebook and slowly flip through the pages.

    It was the <Son Jisoo Care Manual>, passed down like a secret family recipe from one predecessor to another.

    [1005. Sometimes he picks fights with other actors and then suddenly reads the script like a madman. Keep replenishing his iced Americano as the ice melts and never, ever disturb him.]

    The word never, ever'' was marked with five asterisks.

    <i>Looks like I need to head to the caf.''</i>

    The manager held the steering wheel with moist eyes.

    The day had been too long.

    * * *

    <i>The park is so spacious, the air feels fresh.''</i>

    Unaware that someone had been diligently analyzing the script because of him, Yooil, feeling refreshed, headed towards the car where Min Woojin was waiting.

    "Hey, Yooil! Did the meeting go well?"

    "Yes, hyung."

    Yooil leaned back in the car seat with a calm face.

    The statement I don''t like drinking'' was half a lie. Han Yooil cared more about who he drank with than the alcohol itself.

    <i>It''s not entirely a lie since I''m not a big fan of alcohol itself.''</i>

    Above all, Yooil still vividly remembered Son Jisoo''s remarks.

    They''re just using these unknown neers to cut my fees!

    Who does he think he is, the director''s secret child or something?

    Such words were excessively disrespectful, even if directed towards a director he admired.

    Of course, it''s possible that Son Jisoo genuinely respects Gu Chanik. Maybe those words were just blurted out in a moment of anger.

    <i>I don''t want to get closer and share a drink with someone like that.''</i>

    Excellent choice, Mr. Yooil.

    Meanwhile, focused on driving, Min Woojin suddenly eximed,

    "By the way, Yooil. I just got a call. You''ve been selected for a beveragemercial!"

    "Really?"

    He had been surprised by photo shoots and fashion brand modeling, but a beverage model was something else.

    "Can I ask which beverage it is?"

    "Of course. It''s Vita Talk Seven''!"

    Vita Talk Seven.

    It was no exaggeration to say it was the most famous vitamin drink in Korea. It was also the vitamin drink that Han Yooil used to drink frequently during his exam preparation days. Recently, it even came out in jelly form.

    Watching Yooil''s expression, Min Woojin cautiously added,

    "But, um, there''s a tiny problem?"

    "What''s the problem?"

    Seeing Min Woojin, who usually seemedposed, rolling his eyes, Yooil also started to feel anxious.

    <i>This is worrisome.''</i>

 Chapter 42:

    Chapter 42:

    Min Woojin, stammering unusually, began to speak.

    "Well The client really enjoyed Roll it Fun'' a lot."

    Min Woojin continued with an awkward smile.

    "So they''d like you to dance along with it. You know, something like that JelliJelli dance"

    "Uh?"

    Han Yooil''s voice cracked sharply.

    <i>Maybe I shouldn''t have danced.''</i>

    No, it was a good choice in the end, Mr. Yooil. Be confident.

    Brion''s constion didn''t particrly help.

    Noticing this, Brion silently began to show the reactions of people during the filming of Roll it Fun''.

    <i>That''s enough, stop it now.''</i>

    The endless scroll ofments vanished in an instant.

    Call me anytime you need, Mr. Yooil.

    Without responding, Han Yooil gazed at a distant mountain.

    * * *

    Time flew swiftly.

    A weekter, Yooil was on the set for the photo shoot and advertisement of GINBERG.

    "Please look up for a moment~"

    "Close your eyes~"

    Han Yooil followed the makeup director''s instructions, opening and closing his eyes. Before long, a beautifully groomed figure appeared in the mirror.

    <i>I think this is the heaviest makeup I''ve ever had.''</i>

    Whether aware of his concern or not, the young-looking makeup director, who appeared to be of Yooil''s age, admired him from various angles, letting out heartfelt exmations.

    "Perfect!"

    The smoky makeup around his eyes and hair set to look moist with hairspray suited him unbelievably well.

    Just by staring nkly at the mirror, it seemed as if a hidden narrative was visible.

    The makeup director, with eyes filled with emotion, said,

    "It''s fantastic~! Honestly, not everyone suits this concept so well. You really pull it off~?"

    "Thank you."

    After the makeup session, Han Yooil stepped into the studio.

    As Yooil''s face appeared under the bright lights, gasps of awe erupted among the staff.

    <i>Wow''</i>

    The AE of Good nning'', responsible for this advertisement, unconsciously opened his mouth. Having worked as an AE in an advertising agency, he had seen countless actors. Among them were many good-looking and pretty advertisement models from Korea. It was intriguing at first, but after bing a third-year employee, he no longer felt much excitement seeing any actor or model.

    But seeing Han Yooil made him nod involuntarily.

    <i>They really chose the right model.''</i>

    GINVERG, a brand known for its sophisticated and dandy image, matched perfectly with Han Yooil.

    Yooil, wearing a ck jacket with widepels reminiscent of a traditional Korean coat and a unique grey-patterned white inner that evoked Maurits Escher, naturally posed.

    "Nice~ Good!"

    "Great! How about a rougher stance this time?"

    Not just that. His sense was also impable.

    <i>He gets it right away.''</i>

    The AE, looking at the umting shots on the monitor, observed the client''s expression. It was clearly one of satisfaction.

    <i>It''s a wrap.''</i>

    Indeed. Looking at these pictures, even someone who didn''t like the brand might want to buy it.

    The AE silently cheered with a clenched fist.

    * * *

    Against the white studio background, the sound of footsteps echoed.

    Click, ck, click, ck.

    Soon, a long ck jacket swept across the screen with a whoosh.

    A close-up shot of Han Yooil''s eyes with heavy smoky makeup alternated with the piercing gaze of an eagle.

    The graceful arc traced by his arm as it moved.

    Along with that, the widepels of the jacket sliced through the air.

    Immediately following that image, the scene of cranes pping their wings appeared in slow motion. At the same time, Han Yooil''s narration began.

    [Day or night]

    Yooil, who had been slowly walking from left to right, suddenly stops his steps. Then, he approaches the camera with a rxed backward step.

    Facing the camera, Yooil stares intently into it.

    His face was yful, yet due to the smoky makeup, it exuded a dangerous aura.

    [Because every moment of mine is special.]

    Yooil''s face, with a smirk while locking eyes with the camera, briefly appears

    And immediately, the camera flips over.

    Yooil, now wearing a beige jacket, a clean white shirt without patterns, and light brown pants, and donning in ck sses, is seen.

    Apletely different look from before.

    Yet, the face staring straight at the camera, lifting one corner of his mouth, still oozed sexiness.

    [For your special everyday life, different by day and night. GINVERG.]

    ""

    HM, who was watching YouTube, unknowingly watched the advertisement to the end without skipping it and blinked her dry eyes. It was just an ad, but she found herself intensely focused.

    HM, as if enchanted, logged into BlueChat.

    <i>I''m not into Han Yooil. This is just''</i>

    Before she knew it, HM was browsing through numerous Yooil fan ounts she had mutually followed on BlueChat.

    <i>because this actor is close with Harang.''</i>

    That''s why she followed them. The reason HM clicked on a link on one of the ounts was the same.

    [@jinnnny Ha  (link)]

    <i>Yeah. This is all because of our Harang.''</i>

    HM rationalized nonsensically, moving her fingers. Otherwise, she would have felt guilty towards Kim Harang.

    [GB Magazine] The more you know, the more curious you be about this man! WHATS IN MY BAG with Han Yooil

    The link led to a video on GINBERG''s brand YouTube channel.

    The moment he saw the face in the video, HM involuntarily let out a gasp.

    "Wow."

    It felt like he had downed a strongly caffeinated Americano in one shot.

    Han Yooil was just as he appeared in the advertisement. The conceptual makeup looked even more prominent on the non-dynamic camera.

    <i>How does he suit such makeup and clothes?''</i>

    When he was Seon Gihyeon, he looked simply handsome, but Yooil in the video with makeup reminded him of a fallen angel.

    Han Yooil smiled brightly with a look so sharp it seemed it could cut, radiating chess.

    Hello, I''m Han Yooil. This is my first time doing a video like this, so I''m a bit shy.

    And then, Yooil showed his bag, calling it his own  a ck backpack. A mundane brand that you''d expect to see on 10 out of 30 students in a lecture hall.

    He rummaged through the bag and pulled something out.

    First here''s my diary.

    A ck leather diary appeared.

    My aunt gave it to mest winter, and I''ve been using it well. My handwriting is a bit embarrassing should I show you a little?

    And the next moment, a page from the close-up diary was shown.

    "What''s that."

    HM was genuinely baffled.

    <i>That''s what he calls bad handwriting?''</i>

    If that was the case, then she might as well have never written anything in her entire life.

    Han Yooil''s handwriting was that neat.

    There''s also lip balm. My lips tend to dry easily. And oh, this is a bit embarrassing.

    A mosaic-censored script emerged from the bag. Although the cover was censored, those interested would know it was <The Mysterious Garden>.

    Seeing the worn pages, HM genuinely admired it.

    And the most important thing

    Han Yooil, with a yful smile, made a ta-da'' sound as he pulled out aptop. And, seemingly embarrassed by his spirited statement, he continued with an awkward smile.

    The semester has started so I''m working on assignments in between my schedule.

    Production Team: Wooooow

    (Even if you watch on the KTX, he''s a model student)

    Along with the staff''s exmations that weren''t heard in other videos, subtitles appeared.

    Oh, and I like mint candies, so I also carry around this candy box.

    Yooil, after showing the contents of his bag, awkwardly fidgeted with his neck.

    "But does everyone usually show things like this? It didn''t feel like this in other videos"

    While saying this with augh, Yooil''s overly innocent face prompted HM to unintentionally hit the capture button.

    * * *

    "Ughhh!"

    Eximing loudly while clutching his stiff hair, Son Jisoo soon rxed his grip.

    Lately, he started noticing hair loss, so it seemed like a bad idea to mess with his hair too much.

    <i>Why is it getting such a good response!!''</i>

    Son Jisoo couldn''t understand. The photo shoots, CFs, and What''s In My Bag'' were all shoots he had done simrly.

    But why?

    What''s different?

    The atmosphere was so different from when he did it. Moreover, Han Yooil''s ad captures were even spreading positively inmunities that were not very kind to actors.

    He looked at Han Yooil''s video, biting his lip.

    "Annoying."

    While quickly scrolling through the YouTubements, he threw his phone irritably and grabbed the script for <The Mysterious Garden> roughly.

    The driving manager flinched but resolutely kept his eyes on the road.

    <i>ByulByul Cafe. No acidity. Americano with three shots.''</i>

    The manager mentally noted the order and stepped on the elerator.

    * * *

    Of all the people who''ve been on What''s In My Bag, he seems the most rtable (Likes:1.5k)

    Typical_college_student_from_the_penins.jpg (Likes:4.3k)

    But really, it''s nice to see because there''s absolutely no pretense feels like I''m just looking at a peer''s bag (Likes:3.1k)

    I go to the same school as Han Yooil, and he really carries that bag every day lol. He studies super hard truly living the best life.

    Honestly, I wasn''t paying attention to the bag at all (Likes:324)

    Han Yooil''s face is welfare itself.

    Isn''t it just me or does this make you want to study harder? Seeing how worn-out Han Yooil''s script is makes me want to live more diligently (Likes: 654)

    ""

    Clearing his throat with an embarrassed face, the window disappeared instantly. Reading people''sments was fun yet always made him blush.

    Anyway, it was a relief that the reactions weren''t bad.

    <i>But I''m worried.''</i>

    What was currently troubling Han Yooil''s mind was something else.

    It was the Vita Talk Seven''mercial shot the day before.

    He recalled the chaotic shooting set.

    More refreshing!

    Ahh, that''s it! That''s the one! Like you''re so sour you''re gonna die!

    Think, I am the lemon! I am the human lime!''!

    Let''s stop thinking about it.

    Han Yooil clenched his eyes shut.

    <i>Will it be okay?''</i>

    The CF director and the client seemed very satisfied, which only added to his confusion.

    Walking down thepany corridor with a troubled face, he was stopped by a familiar voice.

    "Mr. Yooil."

    Yooil turned at the heavy voice.

    A man with distinct facial features and arge build caught his eye.

    It was President Jang Jaehyun.

    "It''s been a while since we''ve met."

    "Ah Hello, Mr. President."

    President Jang Jaehyun wore a gentle smile.

    "Have you been well?"

    "I have been fine. But I suppose you''ve been too busy to even breathe."

    "Not at all."

    While intently looking at Yooil, Jang Jaehyun spoke.

    "It''s about time for you to do a fitting, Mr. Yooil."

    "Fitting?"

    "It''s almost time for the Busan International Film Festival, isn''t it."

    Indeed.

    With the hectic days passing by, he had momentarily forgotten about it.

    "The wardrobe team has selected a few outfits, so let''s try them onter at the stylist''s office. Director Jang Jaeyi will be joining you as well."

    A few hourster, Yooil was led by the staff to an office of about ten pyeong in size.

    "Wow."

    Yooil had seen vlogs of actors titled <Dress Fitting for the Award Ceremony> on YouTube asionally.

    Just like in those vlogs, numerous outfits were waiting for Han Yooil.

    Suits of all colors and designs filled the office. Among them were many from famous brands he had only heard of.

    "Shall we try this on first?"

    Yooil nodded as he looked at the garments densely packed on the hangers.

    Just trying on clothes, it shouldn''t be too hard.''

    Yooil soon realized that it was a big misconception.

    "Wow the hanger really does matter!"

    "Mr. Yooil looks like a prince!"

    With each change of outfit, the wardrobe team members eximed in admiration, taking photos from various angles.

    "Shall we try this on?"

    "Let''s go with this outfit next~"

    The basic outfits that seemed like Would this suit him?'' naturally fit him like a glove, and even the slightly bizarre outfits with unique colors or details looked incredibly good on him.

    As the wardrobe team dressed Han Yooil like ying with a doll, they found themselves in a dilemma.

    <i>Everything suits him, what should we do?''</i>

    It was Jang Jaeyi who solved their problem.

    "Let''s go with a basic ck this time, and start trying new things from the next event. Let''s choose a clean design for the tie too Ah, this one looks good."

    As Jang Jaeyi presented a ck tie with a subtle sheen, the other team members nodded with sparkling eyes.

    "We''ve seen the fit, so we can keep these styles for now."

    Han Yooil watched Jang Jaeyi smoothly taking charge of the wardrobe team like a conductor. Sensing his gaze, she smiled smoothly.

    "Ah."

    Jang Jaeyi continued with a bright smile.

    "Actually, I majored in fashion. Until college, I wanted to be a designer. But thanks to my brother I mean, the CEO, I ended up stepping into the entertainment industry."

    Clearly, she almost attached a word starting with S'' after brother.''

    Yooil pretended not to notice and nodded.

    Finally escaping the fitting hell, Yooilfortably sat down in a chair and took a breather. The constant cycle of changing clothes hadpletely drained him.

    <i>I''d rather work out.''</i>

    I''ll set your evening routine to a stress-relieving workout.

    <i>''</i>

    Brion''s scheduled workout routine was an upromising way of relieving stress without giving him time to think.

    That night, after working out at the gym, Han Yooil came home and immediately fell asleep like a zombie.

    * * *

    A few dayster.

    A week before the opening ceremony of the Busan International Film Festival, the new advertisement for Vita Talk Seven'' was released.

    It was a concept that no one had anticipated.

 Chapter 43:

    Chapter 43:

    Has everyone finished their parts for the presentation and uploaded the PowerPoint as we agreed?

    The message Lee Hyejin sent that morning was being ignored by her group project members for the past 12 hours.

    Although Lee Hyejin had tried to avoid group projects, her major inevitably involved many. Reluctantly, she found herself suffering because of the notorious group project viins this semester too.

    <i>If there''s no reply in a minute, I''m removing all their names.''</i>

    Just as Hyejin was stewing over this, the wee notification sound rang out.

    MiTalk!

    MiTalk!

    The consecutive notifications made Hyejin check her messages with a glimmer of hope.

    I''m sorry. I have a family gathering tonight and I can''t miss it.

    I''m really sick, I don''t think I can submit the PowerPoint by tonight Sorry, senior.

    <i>Sh*t.''</i>

    Lee Hyejin muttered every curse she knew and angrily shut herptop.

    "I''m removing all your names, you bastards."

    In moments like these, she envied students from other departments.

    For instance, the Department of Korean Literature.

    <i>I met my favorite actor in that ss It was nice.''</i>

    The thought eased the stress that was on the verge of exploding.

    Nothing relieved stress better than indulging in her fandom. Hyejin''s fingers were already naturally navigating to BlueChat.

    While looking at BlueChat''s real-time search words, Lee Hyejin blinked.

    #VitaTalkSeven

    #VitaminAd

    #HanYooilVita

    #VitaminHanYooil

    <i>Could it be because of the ad?''</i>

    Of course, since bing a fan of Han Yooil, Lee Hyejin had always been the first to watch any video he appeared in.

    Lee Hyejin reminisced about Han Yooil''s ad, which she had watched and rewatched countless times.

    <i>Might as well watch it again.''</i>

    Lee Hyejin clicked on the Vita Talk Seven'' ad on YouTube.

    * * *

    Thump, thump, thump.

    First, a hand bouncing a yellow ball against a white background is seen.

    Then, the ball starts to move more vigorously, and soon the owner of the hand, Han Yooil,es into view.

    Oh!

    Yooil, with a weing face, starts to walk towards the camera.

    Dressed in a chick-like yellow sweatshirt and white cks, he approaches the camera with a curious look.

    Oh, wait, wait!

    His round eyes widen, filling the screen with his clear irises.

    Are you still struggling to take your vitamins?

    The sudden background music starts at that moment.

    A familiar intro ys, and the camera swiftly moves backward, starting to capture Han Yooil from afar.

    It''s framed as if it''s from an idol dance video.

    <i>Here ites!''</i>

    Lee Hyejin couldn''t control her rising cheeks.

    The Roll it Fun!'' video was well-known even to those who hadn''t seen the original broadcast, thanks to its spread across YouTube and variousmunities.

    [Vita Vita Vita Vita Talk Talk Talk!]

    The new Vita Talk Seven ad was a variation of the self-introduction video from the RollFun'' preview.

    In the ad, Han Yooil enthusiastically starts dancing to a slightly modified version of JelliJelli''s <You''re the BestYOU>.

    [Seven Seven Seven Seven Talk Talk Talk!]

    Instead of cing his hand on his chest and shaking, he creates the number 7 with his hand and adorably jumps.

    Despite the lively atmosphere and popping CG, Han Yooil''s eyes seemed a bit empty but even that suited him well.

    Fresh, easy, tasty!

    Vita Talk Seven!

    After downing a Vita Talk Seven, Yooil smiles brightly, ending the ad with a close-up of his face.

    After watching the video to the end, Lee Hyejin looked at thement section with a puzzled face.

    "But is this really funny?"

    Lee Hyejin pondered as she examined the reactions to the video, tilting her head in confusion.

    "Isn''t it just cute?"

    By now, her infatuation with Han Yooil had evolved from a crush to an unwavering loyalty.

    Regardless of Hyejin''s thoughts, the impact of Vita Talk Seven was immense.

    And positively so.

    The dance routine from the Vita Talk Seven advertisement even sparked a short-form challenge trend.

    Whether it was done by talented dancers or creators of funny content, the general consensus was simr.

    No matter who did it, they couldn''t match the original advertisement.

    Han Yooil''s dance had a unique vor'' that was exclusively his, as the general public acknowledged.

    * * *

    About that Vita Talk ad

    [When I first saw it, I justughed. But now it''s fascinating how did they make this work?]

    Seriously impressive

    For real

    Nothing beats Han Yooil ;;

    Let''s live enthusiastically like Han Yooil dancing with Vita Talk Seven

    My recent fatigue recovery

    [(Screenshot of Vita Talk Seven ad)]

    For real, who needs a recovery drink now? Just watch Han Yooil''s ad

    Talk about cost-effectiveness

    Advertiser with a mysterious loss

    Lololololololololol

    Han Yooil was looking atmunity captures shared by his peers.

    ""

    In truth, these were reactions Brion had already shown him at least once.

    Korean Lit Kim Jinwoo: (Ad screenshot)

    Korean Lit Kim Jinwoo: Kyakkeumkkkkkkkkkkkkk

    Korean Lit Kang Hana: Yooil, I watch your ad when I''m having a tough time, you know?

    Korean Lit Kim Jinwoo: It''s a regret not going to the filming site, you really

    Korean Lit Hwang Riu: ?

    Korean Lit Hwang Riu: Why stop talking?

    Korean Lit Kang Hana: Maybe his phone was confiscated

    Korean Lit Kang Hana: But Yooil, are you going to the Busan International Film Festival? Walking the red carpet?

    Yooil left a brief reply.

    Yeah.

    Replies filled with OMG'' and Wow'' flooded MiTalk, and just as Yooil was about to close his phone, one more message popped up.

    Korean Lit Hwang Riu: Give us the red carpet review, please

    * * *

    Two days before the film festival''s opening ceremony.

    It was also the day of the second shooting for <The Mysterious Garden>.

    As usual, Yooil arrived early and slowly surveyed the set.

    The recentlypleted florist shop set.

    The adorably decorated florist shop set was a mix of fresh and artificial flowers, and the floor tilesbining white and light green were clean and pretty. The frames on the wall and nts like Tindsia enhanced the overall ambiance of the set.

    Medium torge-sized nters ced here and there gave a feeling akin to a small greenhouse.

    <i>It''s almost like a mini greenhouse.''</i>

    The florist shop was not much different from what Yooil had imagined while reading the script.

    As Yooil was losing track of time exploring the set, Brion''s voice reached him.

    Actor Son Jisoo has arrived.

    <i>!''</i>

    The next to arrive, surprisingly early, was Son Jisoo.

    Even the staff seemed surprised by Son Jisoo''s early arrival.

    Meanwhile, Son Jisoo, who started looking around as soon as he arrived, also noticed Han Yooil.

    <i>There he is.''</i>

    He looked at Han Yooil with a face full of confidence.

    During the preparation period for the shoot, Yooil read and re-read the script. He had never studied this hard in his life.

    "You''re early, senior."

    "It''s the basic, you know."

    Son Jisoo slowly nodded in response to Yooil''s words. Yooil, instead of replying, just quietly smiled.

    "We''re just waiting for Senior Yiwon now."

    "and Senior Joo Heeyoung."

    Joo Heeyoung.

    An actress who was a scene-stealer and made a special appearance in <The Last Diner>.

    <i>I only briefly met her during the reading for this movie.''</i>

    Son Jisoo looked around. It seemed like there was still some time before the arrival of Joo Heeyoung and Yiwon.

    "Yooil, here''s a real tip."

    Son Jisoo spoke in a lowered voice.

    "It''s best to stay as quiet as possible in front of Senior Yiwon."

    "What?"

    Son Jisoo looked frustratingly at Han Yooil, who asked back with a puzzled face.

    "Oh, don''t get me wrong. Of course, I genuinely respect Senior Yiwon "

    "?"

    "But the senior doesn''t like rookie actors. Honestly, there are many rookies who are a bit over the top, and I''m not a fan of that, but Senior Yi is even more so"

    After evaluating Son Jisoo''s statement, the probability of it not being a lie is 78.3%.

    <i>That''s higher than I thought.''</i>

    In other words, that''s the probability that Son Jisoo believes his own statement to be true''.

    "So, it''s better to avoid starting a conversation. Even until a few years ago, I barely had any conversation with him. Back then I"

    Yooil listened to Son Jisoo''s words while watching the busy staff around. That''s when he saw a woman entering the set.

    It was Joo Heeyoung.

    Although they didn''t have a chance to talk in <The Last Diner>, they would spend quite a bit of time together during this movie.

    "Hello, Senior Joo Heeyoung. It''s been a while."

    Joo Heeyoung, who entered the set with a bright face, looked at Han Yooil who approached to greet her.

    "Oh, Yooil! It''s the first time we''ve met since the reading. It''s been a while. Have you been well?"

    "Of course. Have you been well, senior?"

    <i>She''s tall.''</i>

    He didn''t expect her to be so famous so quickly since theyst met on the set of another movie. He thought she was a noticeable actress back then too

    Just as Joo Heeyoung was about to exchange a light greeting with Son Jisoo, an assistant director shouted after receiving a phone call.

    "Actor Yiwon has arrived~!"

    "Let''s get ready for the test shot as soon as everyone''s ready!"

    A few minutester, the shooting began.

    It was the scene the day after Hyukjin (Yiwon) decided to hire Sooil as a part-time worker.

    The red light on the camera started blinking.

    "Mark on 7 take 1~"

    "Action!"

    Han Yooil and Yiwon stood in front of the camera as Sooil and Hyukjin.

    Sooil, who had been cleaning since the morning, suddenly lifted his head to look at Hyukjin.

    "But sir, what should I call you? Boss? Director?"

    "Whatever you''refortable with."

    Sooil casually nodded and repeated boss'' and director'' alternatively.

    It was then

    "Boss, I''m here~ Please make a bouquet with Freesia as the main flower~ Today I want it in a ssic mood~!"

    With a strong nasal voice, the door opened. It was Joo Heeyoung, ying Hwayeon'', the florist''s regr customer and the boss''s secret admirer.

    "Oh. Who''s this?"

    "New part-timer."

    "What? Boss, when did you hire a part-timer?"

    With dialogue and acting that seemed difficult to pull off naturally, Joo Heeyoung''s delivery as Hwayeon'' was vorful yet natural.

    Her long acting career and exceptional skills made her a trusted actress in the film industry.

    "Baby, how old are you?"

    Hwayeon''s friendly talk ispletely ignored by Sooil.

    "No, baby! How old are you?" Hwayeon insisted.

    "Was that question for me?" Sooil replied with a hint of sarcasm.

    "Of course, it was~"

    Sooil looked at Hwayeon, his gaze sharp and a bit standoffish, making Hwayeon slightly flinch.

    As Sooil looked coldly at Hwayeon, a smirk formed on his lips, and he spoke slowly.

    "Oh, I''m sorry. I just can''t recall being your child, so I couldn''t answer."

    It was a clear taunt, but instead of being intimidated, Hwayeon burst intoughter.

    "Hahaha! Oh my, you''re funny. Boss, you hired a good one. A lot of customers wille just to see his face."

    As Hwayeon caused a stir in the florist shop, Hyukjin, who had been quietly arranging flowers, handed her the finished bouquet without a word.

    The muscr figure enveloped in a white shirt and ck suit pants, topped with an apron, created an unbnced fashion statement. Yet, it suited the character Hyukjin.

    "Thanks, I''lle again~"

    After Hwayeon left, having stirred up the ce, Sooil looked at Hyukjin with a frown.

    "Is she your girlfriend, boss?"

    "Park Sooil."

    The cold voice made Sooil freeze for a moment.

    Kim Hyukjin slowly lifted his head and looked into Sooil''s eyes.

    "Let''s keep one thing clear."

    "What''s that?"

    "Don''t cross the line."

    Slightly tense, Sooil quickly regained hisposure and shrugged his shoulders.

    "Sure, whatever."

    A few seconds passed after thest line.

    "Cut!"

    Director Gu Chanik nodded and spoke.

    "Let''s keep that one Are there other shots left for this scene?"

    "Yes, we have close-ups and a full shot of the actors left."

    While the shooting team was busy setting up, Yooil sat with Yiwon on some foldable chairs during their break.

    "Han Yooil."

    "Yes, senior."

    Yiwon gazed intently into Yooil''s eyes and continued.

    "Thatst line you delivered. It felt a bit rushed. Didn''t you think it was too hasty?"

    <i>!''</i>

    Yooil met his deep gaze.

    "I''m sorry, senior."

    "No, you don''t have to apologize."

    Analysis of Yiwon''s tone indicates: cold'' 54%, distant'' 16%, awkward'' 21%, tense'' 8.1%, others 0.9%.

    <i>Really?''</i>

    Was he quiet because he was analyzing it?

    Yooil remembered what Son Jisoo had said.

    <i>I understand why he made suchments now.''</i>

    At first nce, the voice might seem cold. But it wasn''t entirely unpleasant.

    After a moment of contemtion, Yooil spoke.

    "Senior, the reason I responded quickly was actually because of the character, Park Sooil."

    Yiwon raised an eyebrow, his face showing surprise.

    Han Yooil continued slowly.

    "The character Park Sooil doesn''t like to show his weaknesses, and he doesn''t know how to back down easily. So, I thought in a situation where he could feel intimidated, he would actually respond quite confidently and quickly."

    Hearing Yooil''s exnation, Yiwon pondered for a moment.

    He was slightly taken aback. Usually, when he pointed things out to other actors, their responses fell into two categories: either they would apologize profusely or get upset.

    He had hardly encountered an actor, especially a neer, who articted their analysis of the character so precisely.

    <i>That''s quite something.''</i>

    Interest began to spark in Yiwon''s usually cold gaze.

 Chapter 44:

    Chapter 44:

    Hwang Yiwon nodded slowly and continued the conversation,

    "If that''s the interpretation, it''s not bad."

    "Thank you."

    As Yooil and Hwang Yiwon concluded their brief conversation, the camera setup waspleted just in time. Among the staff, who were watching Hwang Yiwon and Han Yooil conversing in soft voices with satisfaction, only Son Jisoo had a face dying of curiosity.

    * * *

    "Thank you for your hard work, actor!"

    The shooting with Han Yooil and Hwang Yiwon went smoothly. Hwang Yiwon, who had a schedule in the evening, left work early. It was now time to shoot the scene where Choi Bin'', yed by Son Jisoo,es to the flower shop.

    It was also thest scene of the day.

    Stretching his stiff neck from waiting, as soon as Son Jisoo saw Han Yooil, who was drinking water alone after the shooting, he quickly approached him.

    "It looked like you were talking with senior Hwang Yiwon earlier."

    "Oh, yes. We had a conversation about acting."

    Son Jisoo, who was observing Han Yooil''s expression, started to worry for a moment.

    <i>He didn''t tell him exactly what I said, did he, that bastard?''</i>

    However, Yooil seemedpletely unaware. He nonchntly met Son Jisoo''s gaze that was scrutinizing him and replied calmly,

    "There was nothing particrly problematic about our conversation. Senior Hwang Yiwon, he seemed kind."

    "Is that so?"

    Son Jisoo chewed on the inside of his cheek. Regardless of his aversion to Han Yooil, it was true that Hwang Yiwon was known to be harsh to neers.

    Yet, such a response. It was iprehensible to Son Jisoo.

    <i>What''s going on?''</i>

    He wanted to probe further, but at the call of the production team, he had to momentarily put his thoughts aside.

    "We''re going into scene 28~"

    At the staff''s call, Son Jisoo stood up.

    <i>Finally.''</i>

    He walked slowly with a triumphant smile on his face.

    He had been waiting just for this moment since thest shoot.

    He loudly set down the script he had been diligently reading.

    After all, in this field, its the end if you''re good.''

    "Actors, please get ready."

    "Yes."

    "Understood."

    Son Jisoo and Han Yooil took their positions in front of the camera.

    Yooil was inside the flower shop, and Son Jisoo was starting the scene from outside the shop. Yooil''s eyes met Son Jisoo''s through the transparent ss door.

    <i>!''</i>

    Yooil was a bit startled upon meeting his gaze. Son Jisoo seemed a bit different from the one he had met just a short while ago.

    Son Jisoo was looking at him with eyes zing, as if he had encountered Yooil in a fighting ring.

    He must have prepared a lot.''

    Today''s tone analysis of Son Jisoo indicates 68% confidence, 17.6% excitement, 13.1% annoyance, and 1.3% others

    <i>No need for analysis.''</i>

    Yooil took a deep breath.

    He felt the nervousness and pleasant excitement of standing on stage for the first time.

    The light in Han Yooil''s eyes started to sparkle.

    <i>This is going to be fun.''</i>

    A few secondster, the camera''s red light came on.

    "Take one of scene 28~"

    "Action!"

    * * *

    During the time the owner, Kim Hyukjin, was away,

    Sooil wandered around the flower shop, memorizing the names. It was his daily mission given by Kim Hyukjin every morning.

    "Ah, what was it This one is a lisianthus, and this Pink Star? Geez, why are all their names like this?"

    Sooil muttered to himself, ruffling his hair.

    As Sooil was muttering, a jingle was heard from behind himthe sound of the door opening. Quickly, Sooil straightened up from his bent posture.

    "Wee."

    With a mechanical greeting, Sooil turned around and instantly froze.

    The man standing at the door, his hand still on the doorknob, was equally frozen.

    The man, staring intently at Sooil''s face, opened his mouth with a stiff expression.

    "You''re really here."

    Choi Bin.

    Sooil''s closest friend, and the one who knew all of his past.

    The very person that Park Sooil least wanted to meet right now.

    ""

    Sooil slowly closed and then opened his eyes. Wishful thinking, but the man standing in front of him doesn''t disappear.

    "You you''re alive."

    Choi Bin''s voice sounded both hollow and angry.

    Sooil responded nonchntly.

    "Of course, I''m alive."

    Downying everything, as if it''s nothing significant, was his specialty.

    "You, you really"

    Choi Bin''s mouth opened slightly and then closed again. His eyes were filled with a myriad of emotions. Sooil avoided his gaze.

    It''s an emotion he''s not ready to confront.

    "Sooil, you no, never mind."

    The wavering gaze finally fixed on Sooil''s face.

    "Why are you here? What''s all this about, really?"

    "That''s a prettyme question for a high school ssmate."

    "Don''t evade the question."

    Neither backed down, as if they were pulling at the ends of a taut rope.

    Resentment and disregard, different forms of anger, were about to consume each other.

    Choi Bin took a step forward, ring at Park Sooil.

    "I was here before. Park Sooil, what''s your rtionship with the owner here?"

    Even as Choi Bin asked quietly, Sooil maintained his casual demeanor.

    He shrugged his shoulders.

    "Just an employee and a boss."

    "You don''t know anything about that person?"

    Choi Bin''s gaze, which was filled with resentment, now held a hint of tension.

    "I saw something when I was herest time. It''s hard to exin in words but there''s something about that person."

    "What do you mean?"

    "Anyway, it''s really weird!"

    The cry was so earnest it was almost pitiable.

    However, Park Sooil, hearing this, raised his eyebrows and looked away.

    His furrowed brow smoothed out. Then, with a deep sigh, the corners of his eyes drooped downwards.

    A clear sign of boredom.

    "!"

    Seeing his expression, Choi Bin''s fist tightened.

    "I''m busy. If you''re not buying flowers, leave."

    "Hey, Park Sooil!"

    Intently staring at the monitor, Gu Chanik spoke up.

    "Cut!"

    It was an instant okay cut.

    <i>It''s done.''</i>

    Just as practiced. Son Jisoo clenched his fist in satisfaction. He was pleased with his own performance reflected on the monitor.

    Gu Chanik, standing next to Son Jisoo, patted his shoulder and whispered softly.

    "You seem to be in good condition today."

    "!"

    Son Jisoo''s cheeks rose in a smile.

    That was until Gu Chanik added anotherment while looking at Yooil.

    "You, well, you''re always good."

    At the director''s words, Han Yooil just modestly bowed his head. Unaware, Son Jisoo bit his lip.

    <i>Really, I don''t like this.</i>

    Son Jisoo''s gaze swept over the set.

    It was a persistent and fiery gaze.

    * * *

    The staff members were busily moving around every corner of the set, dedicating themselves to the setup. Soon after the shooting team and the art team finished their setup, the assistant director shouted loudly.

    "We''re moving to the next cut for shooting~"

    The light on the camera, capturing Sooil and Bin in a two-shot, turned on.

    "Action!"

    The shooting began with Director Gu Chanik''s voice.

    "I''m busy. If you''re not buying flowers, then leave."

    "Hey, Park Sooil!"

    Park Sooil lifted one corner of his mouth.

    A clear sneer.

    "Why. Say it differently?"

    He spoke each word with precise pronunciation.

    "Customer. Because of the customer, all the other customers will leave. Pleaseee, could you leave?"

    <i>This will be an okay cut as well.''</i>

    The camera director was ready to call cut'' at any moment.

    Meanwhile, upon hearing Sooil''s words, Choi Bin''s neck veins bulged.

    His eyes, growing increasingly red, were captured by the camera.

    Everyone held their breath as they watched Sooil and Choi Bin.

    ng-

    "?!"

    A sound that shouldn''t have been heard resonated in the studio.

    Everyone froze at the unexpected incident.

    A ss vase thrown by Choi Bin, Son Jisoo, had shattered on the floor.

    "Ah."

    The assistant director mped his mouth shut. He almost gasped.

    The prop team leader was also covering his mouth.

    ss shards scattered on the floor of the flower shop.

    The two actors simply stared nkly at the now dysfunctional ss vase.

    <i>It''s ruined.''</i>

    Of course, this wasn''t the first time something like this had happened on set. There had been even more drastic improvisations.

    An improv involving throwing an object in front of them was minor.

    <i>But of all the props, why pick the one made of ss to throw?''</i>

    The prop team leader and the art team leader exchanged sad nces. It''s going to be a headache to clean this up and start over,'' their faces seemed to say.

    The assistant director closed and then opened his eyes.

    <i>Huh?''</i>

    But it was quiet.

    The assistant director looked at Gu Chanik with a puzzled expression.

    <i>Why isn''t he calling cut?''</i>

    Director Gu Chanik was seriously looking at the monitor.

    Only then did the assistant director look at Han Yooil and Son Jisoo.

    <i>Huh?''</i>

    The expression of the assistant director gradually became moreplex as he watched the two.

    The two actors were still looking at each other.

    As Choi Bin and Park Sooil.

    The red-faced Choi Bin spoke up.

    "You''ve changed, haven''t you?"

    His voice trembled with anger.

    But Sooil was still cold.

    "It seems like you''re the one who''s changed. Now you know how to throw things."

    The assistant director nced at the script in his hand and widened his eyes.

    <i>What''s this?''</i>

    [Sooil: I''m busy. If you''re not buying flowers, then leave.

    Bin: Hey, Park Sooil!

    Sooil: Why. Say it differently? (Coldly) Customer. Because of the customer, all the other customers will leave. Please, could you leave?

    Choi Bin, with an angry face, looks at Sooil before stepping out of the flower shop.]

    <i>Isn''t this supposed to be the end of the scene?''</i>

    However, the performance of the two didn''t seem to be ending.

    Sooil took a step towards Choi Bin.

    With a flinch,

    Choi Bin slightly recoiled at Sooil''s approach, the moment captured by the camera.

    Choi Bin tries to re at Sooil, forcing his eyes wide open.

    Don''t you think you''re going too far?"

    At Choi Bin''s words, Sooil chuckles.

    You, of all people."

    And then, from his mouth, a voice as cold as the winter wind was heard.

    "Don''t cross the line. I''m telling you nicely."

    ""

    Unable to say anything, Choi Bin just looks at Sooil and then turns around to leave.

    The door of the flower shop closes.

    Sooil intently watches Choi Bin as he walks away.

    Only the bell on the door rings obliviously with a clear sound

    "Cut!"

    Director Gu Chanik''s cut'' finally sounded.

    All the staff were watching his reaction.

    But the assistant director knew what kind of response to expect.

    "Good."

    He nodded with a rare satisfied smile.

    "Very good."

    It was a scene that could have been nd if it had followed the script strictly. That much more, the actors'' performances were crucial in this scene.

    Director Gu Chanik looked at the shining ss shards on the floor.

    "Hmm."

    Whether it was a mistake or intentional, the image of the broken ss vase surprisingly fit well with the scene.

    But what was even better was something else.

    <i>The dialogue.''</i>

    The scene they just shot was to be ced before the scene in the pink muhly garden.

    The ad-lib that Sooil just delivered yed a role in highlighting his line about not crossing the line.''

    <i>He has a good sense.''</i>

    After monitoring a few more times, Director Gu Chanik nodded.

    "Let''s go with this."

    * * *

    "Hey, hyung You worked hard"

    Son Jisoo''s manager cautiously handed him a coffee. However, Son Jisoo seemed not to notice the manager''s words.

    ""

    He slowly unclenched his fist. Red nail marks were visibly imprinted on his palm.

    "Ha."

    A hollowugh escaped from Son Jisoo''s mouth.

    "Ha ha"

    Strictly speaking, him throwing the ss vase and delivering the lines to Sooil wasn''t an improvisation.

    It was a performance he had prepared, rehearsing it over and over again by himself.

    He was well aware that a supporting actor shouldn''t overshadow the lead. That''s why he threw the ss vase, prepared for the bacsh.

    He wanted, even for just a moment, to overpower him.

    But the moment he uttered his first line, he realized something had gone wrong.

    Throughout his performance, he couldn''t see his own presence.

    He was merely being dragged along by Han Yooil''s pace.

    "I was yed."

    It was aplete defeat.

 Chapter 45:

    Chapter 45:

    "Senior, you''ve worked hard."

    ""

    The fact that the very person who had worn him down seemed to have no thoughts about it made Son Jisoo feel even more deted.

    He merely nodded his head in response, not having the strength to speak. Yooil looked at Son Jisoo with puzzled eyes. Just a few hours ago, Son Jisoo had been looking at him with eyes full of passion.

    <i>Maybe he''s hungry.''</i>

    As Yooil seriously contemted his stomach situation, Son Jisoo slowly turned his head.

    Han Yooil''s face, with wide-open eyes, came into view.

    Son Jisoo had been irritated and angered by Han Yooil for over a month.

    But now

    Everything just felt futile.

    "Are you okay?"

    It had to be acknowledged. Han Yooil was not just a rookie.''

    Then, the words that had been swirling in Son Jisoo''s mouth burst out.

    "Exactly,"

    He couldn''t hold it in any longer.

    "What were you thinking? When you were acting?"

    "Huh?"

    "You didn''t even seem surprised when I broke the vase. What were you thinking, how did you act then?"

    Han Yooil looked surprised by the unexpected question.

    "I''m not sure."

    He scratched his head and then spoke.

    "I was just following your lead in acting and it turned out that way."

    "What did you say?"

    Son Jisoo''s eyes sharpened as he scrutinized Yooil, but he couldn''t read any malice on Han Yooil''s face. Only clear eyes were looking back at him.

    "To be honest, when I practiced alone, I couldn''t bring out that much emotion. I also thought that I didn''t quite fit the character of Sooil. It was because you led the way that I could follow well."

    Han Yooil was sincere.

    "It''s all thanks to you, Senior."

    ""

    Son Jisoo, at a loss for words, looked at Yooil and then tried to speak casually.

    "Got it Do well in the remaining shoots."

    Being a supporting actor, he didn''t have many scenes left in this movie. He wouldn''t be on this set for a while after today.

    "We probably won''t see each other much anymore."

    Son Jisoo''s movie "A Day in a Closed Room," directed by Lee Changwoo 17 years ago, is set to be screened at the Busan International Film Festival as part of the Lee Changwoo Special''.

    When Yooil heard about Brion, he quickly spoke up.

    "Senior, are you also going to the film festival?"

    "Ah, the Busan International Film Festival?"

    Recalling a recent article he had nced at, Son Jisoo remembered reading about Han Yooil''s movie going to the Busan International Film Festival.

    Son Jisoo concealed his bitterness and nodded with a rxed face.

    After getting into the car, he declined the coffee offered by his manager.

    "It''s fine, not today."

    The manager looked at Son Jisoo strangely, but Son Jisoo just closed his eyes and leaned back.

    <i>Irritating.''</i>

    The ad-lib wasn''t even for the sake of acting.

    For the first time, he realized that one could feel such endless fatigue and a sense of defeat from a kind counterpart.

    * * *

    Two days after the second shooting of "The Mysterious Garden."

    It was the opening day of the Busan International Film Festival.

    Yooil, we''ll be arriving soon.

    The film festival was more hectic than expected.

    From the morning, Yooil wore an outfit personally selected by Director Jang Jaeyi, proceeded with interviews with his agency, and after receiving final touch-ups in the waiting area, he took the sponsored car to the festival.

    "The actor will now alight."

    The door opened at the staff''s words, and as soon as it did, a barrage of shes hit his face. Han Yooil tried not to squint. Around the red carpet, numerous reporters were standing with their cameras. Yooil bowed his head in greeting and slowly walked forward.

    "Yooil, look here please!"

    "Over here too~"

    Reporters'' voices echoed from all directions. Yooil turned his head following the direction of the voices.

    One, two, three.

    Then he looked in another direction and counted again, one, two, three.

    "Last one~!"

    Yooil turned his head towards the voice. The face of the reporter, who had been shouting with a cracked voice, came into view.

    When the reporter''s eyes met Han Yooil''s, he gaped for 0.5 seconds before shouting vehemently.

    "A heart, pleeeease! Make a heart!"

    <i>A heart?''</i>

    Yooil slowly raised his hands.

    This should do it.

    The sound of rapid shutter clicks was like rain.

    Yooil crossed the red carpet, greeting everyone he made eye contact with from afar.

    * * *

    [Photo] Vitamin Boy'' Han Yooil, Fresh Hand Greetings

    [Photo] Han Yooil First time making a heart''

    [Busan International Film Festival in Pictures] Han Yooil Awkward heart on the red carpet''

    ""

    Director Jang Jaeyi sighed softly as he quickly monitored the articles.

    The awkwardly formed heart had grabbed attention, which could be seen as problematic.

    <i>But his face came out well.''</i>

    For a first red carpet, this was eptable.

    After examining a few more photos of Yooil, Director Jang Jaeyi leaned back and smiled faintly. The rookie actor they had recruited was exceeding expectations in every aspect.

    Meanwhile, at the same time.

    Yooil was still busily enjoying the film festival.

    "Yooil!"

    "It''s been a while~"

    "How have you been, Yooil?"

    Yooil''s face softened at the sound of the familiar voices.

    Meeting Director Yoo Jaeho and the actors from The Last Diner,'' Yooil sincerely expressed his happiness. Min Sohee, Lee Jongsun, Park Joonkiall had bright faces.

    "Thanks to the director, I''m getting to experience the film festival They say you have to live long to see everything."

    "Are you going to keep saying that in front of me? Huh?"

    They were at the first screening of The Last Diner.''

    Yooil leaned back in the plush seat and looked at the screen. A quick nce to the side showed that not only Director Yoo Jaeho but also Lee Jongsun and the other actors were a bit nervous.

    Although they had done ADR to the rough cut, this was the first time they were seeing the finished film.

    This film festival will likely influence the initial reviews and the number of screenings for The Last Diner.'' Take a deep breath and watch with a rxed mind, Yooil.

    <i>This makes me even more nervous.''</i>

    Han Yooil swallowed.

    Soon the cinema plunged into darkness.

    * * *

    In the cold dawn breeze,

    A car drives down an empty road. Inside the car is Yooil, looking lonely and forlorn as he travels alone.

    The sound of the car passing by is apanied by the early to mid-section of Rachmaninoff''s Piano Concerto No. 2.

    As the opening sequence passes, the title appears.

    Jongsun, Joonki, Sohee, and Yooil.

    Four characters who met in a suicidemunity decide to visit gourmet restaurants before they die.

    The four constantly argue and distrust each other but can''t let go of one another.

    The tension among the characters esctes after Sohee consumes poison at a rest area.

    You said you needed money. That''s why you came this far, even considering death.

    Was that your doing, sir?

    After being treated at the hospital, Sohee is soon discharged without major issues. They get back in the car to head to thest diner, but the atmosphere has changed significantly.

    It was around that time when the tire of the car they were in burst.

    On a deserted national road,

    The four characters step out of the car and stand at a distance, ring at each other.

    Then, Jongsun, who had been expressionless throughout the movie, starts to sob.

    Please, can''t we live like humans, at least before we die?

    The characters then begin to unravel their stories, as if a dam had burst.

    Joonki had worked diligently for a smallpany he joined 30 years ago. Thepany grew from a tiny office to upying an entire building. Joonki was proud until he realized thepany no longer needed him.

    One day, there was no work for me And the next day, my desk was outside the office.

    He was rmended to resign. Life turned grey in an instant. That''s when he started gambling.

    By the time he realized, he was crushed under a huge debt.

    Jongsun, a former nurse, had been med for a medical ident 20 years ago. Since then, she had done every job from cleaning to working in a restaurant. Her only son ignored her existence.

    The son, who never showed his face, suddenly came and said, I have cancer and will die soon.'' Jongsun didn''t believe him, as he always lied. But half a yearter, he died, just like a lie.

    One day, while eating alone, Jongsun realized how painfully long each day was.

    Sohee believed she had lived a rtively happy life. She dreamt big, evening from a modest family background. She was talented in business and had built her brand and hired employees with her savings.

    She met a kind man and got married when her business stabilized. The man seemed to love her genuinely. He wanted to do business like Sohee. He said he needed a lot of money and connections.

    So I gave him everything he wanted.

    It was toote when she learned he had been in amonw marriage with another woman for years. The only thing she could do was change her insurance beneficiary to her only family, her cousin.

    Yooil had been living on his own since high school. Survival was more important than studies. One day, a friend he worked part-time with introduced him to cryptocurrency.

    It''s fun. Numbers don''t care who I am.

    He made in a week what would have taken a month of part-time work.

    That was the beginning. He spent days staring at his phone, trading cryptocurrencies. But something was off. Despite his usual buying and selling, his ount was on a downhill trajectory.

    In a month, years of savings vanished like melting snow.

    Having shared their stories, the characters decide to continue to thest gourmet restaurant as nned.

    But in thetter part of the movie, it''s revealed that the person who poisoned the food was none other than Sohee''s cousin, yed by Joo Heeyoung in a special appearance.

    Heeyoung wanted to iste Sohee from the group by feeding her a non-lethal poison. But her n failed as they followed Sohee to the hospital.

    Heeyoung tries to take Sohee away.

    Sister, you don''t have anyone left but me. Who else made the person who was depressed and living like they''re about to die want to live? You think I''ll let you die with these lowlifes?!

    Why can''t you let go?

    What kind of question is that, sister! It''s

    Is it because of the insurance money?

    Heeyoung mps her mouth shut at Sohee''s words.

    Ha ha.

    Sohee lets out a weakugh.

    Then, someone blocks Heeyoung''s path.

    It''s Jongsun.

    You won''t get your way.

    Step aside, olddy.

    Even if my body breaks, I''ll take Sohee to the end. So get lost!

    Joonki joins, threatening Heeyoung with the recorded conversation, sessfully sending her away.

    As they get into the car, Yooil quickly presses the elerator.

    Sohee, watching the swiftly changing scenery outside the window, suddenly starts tough.

    The strangeughter gradually bes contagious. Jongsun and Joonki burst intoughter, and even Yooil, who had been grimacing, starts tough.

    The car carrying the odd group drives along the highway withughter.

    They decide to go to thest gourmet restaurant Joonki mentioned, a sashimi restaurant in Namhae.

    But Sohee, already weakened, copses halfway. They have to stop their journey.

    And the movie jumps two monthster.

    The opening sequence ties into the scene.

    Yooil is seen driving on the dawn road, apanied by Rachmaninoff''s Piano Concerto No. 2.

    Yooil arrived at Sohee''s columbarium.

    There, he met Joonki and Jongsun.

    So, where are we going now?

    I''m not telling you.

    They set off on another journey.

    You know I''m picky about food, right?

    They were not looking for thest gourmet restaurant, but a new one.

    * * *

    Yooil quickly wiped his cheek. The tears he shed while watching the movie had slightly dried up.

    Park Joonki, Jin Soyoung, and Lee Jongsun sitting next to him also had red eyes.

    <i>The post-sync was even better than when we recorded it.''</i>

    Not just the acting, but editing and music yed a significant role. The right sound made scenes, which could have been melodramatic, feel sober and genuine.

    Even after leaving the cinema, Yooil couldn''t shake off the movie''s lingering effects.

    Then, Brion spoke up.

    Would you like to see the reviews for The Last Diner'' after the film festival screening?

    * * *

    Busan International Film Festival Reviews

    [I had a great time at the film festival. There were many good films.

    I saw Son Jisoo at the Lee Changwoo special exhibition! Lol

    Oh! And there was a film that left an impression on me

    The Last Diner''

    > Cried my eyes out watching this Heard it''s releasing soon, definitely going back to watch it]

    Who''s the director of The Last Diner''?

    Yoo Jaeho

    Isn''t it too cid? Personally, not a fan of films that are just calm

    I wrote this post, and it wasn''t boring at all

    Isn''t that the film Han Yooil is in?

    Yep

    Everyone who saw it has great things to say Looking forward to it

    After the film festival, the review of The Last Diner'' by the often TV and YouTube-featured critic Kim Doyun, who frequently leaves negativements, was shared inmunities.

    9.0

    A profound reflection on the journey of life, gritty yet beautiful.

    Another review by the famously critical critic Lee Byungsu also gained modest poprity.

    8.0

    Is food really that significant?

    Wow, it''s been so long since I saw Lee Byungsu give such a high rating

    He hasn''t given 8 points in 5 years

    Lol, really looking forward to this movie

    * * *

    While The Last Diner'' was garnering attention, Yooil was reviewing new scripts at the suggestion of CEO Jang Jaehyun.

    "You mentioned you liked reading, so I thought you''d be helpful in reviewing scripts."

    Jang Jaehyun pushed Yooil, a Korean Literature major, into the meeting room, adding that he might find the script review helpful.

    Yooil looked at the pile of scripts on the table with wide eyes.

    JJ Entertainment was in partnership with the drama productionpany TN ENM. All the scripts on the table had been sent by TN.

    Analysisplete. Of the 19 scripts, 2 werepleted in thest year, 4 in thest three years, and 13 were written over five years ago.

    <i>Right.''</i>

    Most were works that had won contests or signed contracts with productionpanies but didn''t make it to the programming stage.

    But not making it to programming doesn''t mean the scriptscked quality or entertainment value.

    If they weren''t enjoyable, they wouldn''t have made it this far.

    The head of the nning team, also reviewing scripts with Yooil, said lightly,

    "Don''t think too deeply, just let me know if you find any script that looks good. We''re not nning to go into production right away anyway."

    Yooil began skimming the outlines of the scripts.

    Thrillers, romances, fantasies, SF

    While he was marveling at the variety of genres, something caught his eye.

    <i>Huh?''</i>

    Yooil''s eyes sparkled as he held a particr project proposal.

 Chapter 46:

    Chapter 46:

    The nning team member sitting next to the team leader nced at Yooil, who was intently reviewing the scripts.

    <i>He''s very diligent.''</i>

    Although part of the same JJ Entertainment, the nning team didn''t interact with the actors as frequently as the management department did. Their knowledge about Han Yooil was limited.

    Thetest rookie actor at JJ and a rising star.''

    That was all they knew.

    <i>It''s the first time I''ve seen an actor participating in script reviews.''</i>

    Honestly, when they first heard that Han Yooil would be part of the script review, it was quite surprising.

    The actor ising in person?

    <i>Really?''</i>

    However, Yooil was more serious than expected.

    After politely greeting everyone upon entering the office, he had since remained quiet, focusing solely on the scripts.

    <i>He''s not just reading; he''s meticulous.''</i>

    "And what do you think, Mr. Actor?"

    The first script Yooil read was an action thriller about two male detectives leading a crime investigation.

    "It''s good. The characters of the two detectives are well-defined, and I like the part where they start to suspect each other at the climax. It feels a bit clich, but it could be really entertaining when visualized. However"

    Yooil continued with a slight tilt of his head.

    "The viin character feels too weakly portrayed in their exit. The overall plot is a bit monotonous."

    Han Yooil''s feedback didn''t stop there.

    "Moreover, it feels quite simr to The Day I Saw You'' by Newpublics, which was popr recently. It seems a bit risky to start this now."

    "!"

    The team member was slightly surprised.

    <i>He''s really analyzing this.''</i>

    And they all agreed with his points.

    The team leader''s eyes sparkled.

    "Mr. Actor, how about you join the nning team?"

    Although the team leader asked sincerely, Yooil politely declined the offer with his characteristic courteous smile.

    The visibly disappointed team leader encouraged Yooil to take his time reading and then whispered,

    "Mr. Actor, if you find something you like, feel free to mention it to the CEO. Maybe you''d like to star in it!"

    "Is that okay?"

    "Of course!"

    The team leader eximed, her eyes wide.

    "If you want to do it, we''d wee it with open arms!"

    It''s true. All the scripts here are internal IPs that TN ENM and JJ Entertainment can co-produce without further negotiations.

    I see.

    Yooil started examining the proposals even more diligently.

    Among the variety of stories across genres, one title caught Yooil''s attention.

    <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High>

    The genre was mystery horror, an eight-part series.

    The bold logline caught his eye first.

    [A mysterious disappearance at Korea''s top arts high school. As the police struggle to find the culprit, a story unfolds when a girl who can see ghosts appears.]

    ""

    Yooil, after quickly skimming through the treatment, had a sparkle in his eye.

    <i>This one.''</i>

    There are many stories with highpletion and interesting narratives.

    The important thing was how much it resonates with you.''

    <i>It''s worth a shot.''</i>

    Noticing the proposal in Yooil''s hands, the team leader nodded and spoke up.

    "Ah, that one? It was a winner of TN''s horrorpetition about five years ago. The script is actually more engaging than the proposal. That''s why many directors had their eyes on it."

    The team member asked with a curious face.

    "Really?"

    "Yeah. But it never even went into pre-production."

    Pre-production.

    It refers to all the work done before the actual filming of a drama begins, such as finalizing the script, drawing storyboards, and scouting locations.

    "Why was that?"

    "Well, people usually keep quiet about why projects get shelved."

    As the team leader shrugged off the question, Brion''s voice chimed in.

    The issue with <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> was due to conflicts between the writer and the productionpany.

    <i>What does that mean?''</i>

    It was confirmed that there were differences between the director initially involved in the production and the writer. The writer consistently proposed other directors, but the productionpany rejected them.

    <i>Why?''</i>

    Most productionpanies have their own directors or specific directors they want to work with. They often oppose working with directors outside of this circle.

    Yooil thought for a moment, resting his chin on his hand.

    <i>So, to summarize, the director attached by TN ENM and the writer had a major fallout, and when the writer tried to bring in another director, the productionpany blocked it.''</i>

    That is correct.

    Yooil saw the writer''s name.

    Ki Juhyun.

    Ki Juhyun started as a writer by winning the top prize at SBC''s one-act ypetition seven years ago and made her debut with SBC''s four-part drama <Sticker Salesman> the following year. Five years ago, she won the top prize at TN ENM''s Thrilling Horror Competition'' with <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> andter worked on adaptations for movies like <Street Child> and <Anyway, Pineapple>

    Listening to Ki Juhyun''s career, Yooil nodded. She seemed to be a writer with both talent and skill.

    "Uh, if it''s okay, I''d like to read the script Would that be alright with your schedule?"

    "Of course, Mr. Actor! The rest of our work today is just reviewing scripts anyway."

    "Feel free to read at your pace."

    Yooil began reading the script attentively.

    The script attached to the proposal was up to the second part. Yooil read the nearly 70-page script in one go.

    "Huh? Mr. Actor, did you finish reading it already?"

    "You''re really a fast reader~!"

    Yooil slowly set down the script.

    He barely registered thements from the staff member and the team leader.

    <i>It''s interesting.''</i>

    It was a story he would say yes to if a casting offer came in.

    "The script isplete till the end. If we had a director, we could go into pre-production right away."

    The probability of writer Ki Juhyun feeling negatively about the director proposed by TN ENM was 89.9%, and the current probability of sessful production for <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> was 2.3%

    Yooil wondered if he should involve himself in this situation, but he couldn''t easily give up on it.

    <i>Who''s distributing <The Last Diner> this time?''</i>

    The distributor for <The Last Diner> is

    Yooil really wanted to be part of this project.

    He was drawn to it.

    TN ENM.

    Sensing Yooil''s thoughts, Brion spoke up again after a few seconds.

    Re-evaluating the production sess probability for <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High>. If Han Yooil actively participates in the project, the probability of the drama being sessfully produced increases to 82.4%.

    It seemed like there might be a way forward.

    * * *

    Ki Juhyun.

    A legendary figure in the Writers'' Education Academy, who debuted from the introductory ss after graduating from a philosophy department and has been spoken of ever since. The academy was divided into introductory, training, and professional sses. It was rare for someone from the introductory ss, which was for those just starting to dream of being writers, to make it to the final judging.

    Ki Juhyun was well aware of her talent.

    There are many talented people in the world, but she was confident because she knew how to write stories with her own style.

    She was on a seemingly smooth path as a writer, but there was one thorn in her side.

    The script she submitted to TN ENM''s horrorpetition. It was a script she had worked on for a long time and had a special affection for.

    She didn''t submit it to TN''spetition for any particr reason other than the contest''s promise to judge solely on skill, the substantial prize, and the potential for dramatization.

    <i>Had I known this would happen, I wouldn''t have submitted it.''</i>

    She waited because they promised to attach a good director, but the person they assigned understood her work only 10%.

    This is just a drama to shoot with idols, you know, Ms. Writer? It''s all about the fandom.

    Ending it this way is too nd. Let''s go for something more dramatic. It could be fun.

    At first, she responded with a smile. A month passed, and the gap between the director and Ki Juhyun''s opinions didn''t seem to close.

    The breaking point for Ki Juhyun came one afternoon when the director flippantly made ament.

    Who watches auteur films these days? Writer, director, it''s all just talk among themselves. I understand you''re young and inexperienced, Ms. Writer. But if I handle this script, we can really grab both ratings and buzz what a shame.

    At that moment, thest thread of Ki Juhyun''s patience snapped.

    What nonsense are you spouting?

    Ms. Writer? Are you saying that to me?

    Yes. To you. Shouldn''t people speak with some sense? Don''t you think?

    Ki Juhyun stared directly at the dumbfounded director and shouted.

    You started directing thanks to connections and you want to lecture me! You even botched a web drama filled with your beloved idols, and you talk about ratings and buzz!

    When she came to her senses, the proposal in her hand was crumpled, and she was already outside the productionpany building. Employees she didn''t even remember were trying to calm her down and the rest is history.

    The director, who had connections with the CEO, furiously demanded Ki Juhyun be fired for several days. However, TN didn''t want to lose a writer like Ki Juhyun. At the same time, they kept rejecting the directors Ki Juhyun brought in, finding fault with each one.

    Ki Juhyun''s options were limited. She could either ept the director suggested by TN or give up on the project.

    "Ah, this is frustrating."

    With her mind cluttered with thoughts, Ki Juhyun found it hard to concentrate on writing her next project. She grabbed a peppermint candy from the pile next to herputer and unwrapped it, her expression sour.

    That''s when her phone rang.

    "Hello?"

    A smooth baritone voice came through the receiver. Ki Juhyun straightened up before responding.

    "Yes, that''s me."

    "Hello, nice to meet you."

    The voice''s owner continued cheerfully.

    "My name is Han Yooil."

    "Yes?"

    Ki Juhyun mumbled, puzzled.

    <i>Han Yooil? Who''s that''</i>

    After pondering for a while, she suddenly recalled a drama she had binge-watched recently.

    <i>Could it be''</i>

    "Are you the actor from Sing in High School?"

    "Yes, that''s right."

    "Wow, I really enjoyed Sing in High School! I really liked your character, Seon Gihyeon."

    For a moment, Ki Juhyun let go of her writer persona and spoke brightly. Then, she quickly snapped back to reality.

    "Ahem But why?"

    "What do you want to talk about with me?"

    Han Yooil wanted to talk to her?

    Ki Juhyun''s eyes widened in surprise.

    However, what Yooil had said so far was not as surprising as what he was about to say next.

    "I want to do <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High>."

 Chapter 47:

    Chapter 47:

    Days before Han Yooil reached out to Ki Juhyun, Director Yoo Jaeho sat in his office in Sangam, staring nkly at the monitor. His once neatly trimmed hair had grown long and unruly due to his hectic schedule.

    <i>"My mind is all over the ce."</i>

    Histest work, <The Last Diner>, had just won the New Currents award at the Busan International Film Festival, beating out strong contenders. Normally, such independent films would premiere in arthouse theaters, but the narrative changed when TN ENM decided to distribute it. Backed by a robust distributionpany, <The Last Diner> was enjoying unprecedented poprity for an independent film, surpassing 100,000 viewers. With a break-even point of just 20,000 due to minimal investment, the film''s sess was beyond expectations. The flood of texts on Yoo Jaeho''s phone was a testament to his changed daily life.

    Hello, Director. This is Shin Yuri, a reporter from TEN. I''d like to request an interview regarding the Busan International Film Festival.

    Hello, Director. I''m Kim Soojin from Doodream. I have some questions about your uing project.

    Hello, Director

    Amidst these messages, the first text Yoo Jaeho responded to was from someone else.

    Hello, Director. How have you been? This is Han Yooil.

    It was a message from none other than Han Yooil.

    * * *

    Hours after receiving Yooil''s text, Yoo Jaeho found himself in his office with the actor.

    "Ah, Yooil. You like coffee, right?"

    "Of course."

    Yoo Jaeho personally brewed a cup of coffee and handed it to Yooil in a mug adorned with a cute duck character. It was coffee made from Yirgacheffe beans, known for their pleasant acidity.

    "The coffee is delicious. Thank you."

    "Haha, this ce is actually known for its coffee. People from around here oftene by just to take out. Though I haven''t been able to meet many people these days."

    "You''ve been quite busytely, right?"

    "Don''t even start. I''ve never been this popr in my life, it''s dizzying."

    Yoo Jaeho, who had given a friendlyugh, suddenly changed his expression.

    "So, what brings you here?"

    Instead of answering, Yooil reached into his bag and pulled out a file.

    Yoo Jaeho nced at the opaque file on the table and then back at Yooil''s face. His clear, unblemished face was intriguing.

    "What''s this?"

    "Would you like to read it?"

    The first emotion that struck Yoo Jaeho was curiosity.

    What is this?''

    "Just reading it, right?"

    "Of course."

    "Really, just reading?"

    With that reminder, Yoo Jaeho opened the file Yooil had handed him.

    <i>It''s a proposal.''</i>

    He already had numerous proposals waiting for his review, and he was considering writing his own script.

    But.

    <i>If he specifically chose this, it must mean he''s interested.''</i>

    Han Yooil was an actor who had never disappointed him, not even once.

    Yoo Jaeho held the proposal with a serious face. His hand slowly began turning the pages of the proposal.

    And then, his calm face gradually started to change.

    * * *

    If it''s a school of the arts, it''s a ce all aspiring young artists dream of attending  Saetbyeol Art High School.

    One day, something strange happens there. A child goes missing. The school is turned upside down. Amidst the lingering unsettling atmosphere the body of the missing child is discovered.

    And that night, another child disappears. Thest person to have seen the missing child was Min Hojun, a second-year student at Saetbyeol Art High School and the protagonist of the drama.

    The dark outsider, he is shunned by the police and those around him. And then, a girl who ims she can see ghosts appears before him

    "!"

    Yoo Jaeho bit his lip and frowned as he rapidly flipped through the script.

    He quickly reached the page marked Act 2.''

    "What is this?"

    Yooil smiled slyly and said,

    "It might be your next project, Director."

    "!"

    Yoo Jaeho didn''t know, but Yooil had personally pitched the script to Chairman Jang to get him to review the proposal.

    Initially, he just listened without a word but eventually nodded.

    "Looks good. Once we confirm the director and the writer, let''s schedule a meeting with TN."

    Remembering his conversation with Chairman Jang Jaehyun, Yooil smiled pleasantly.

    Now, all that''s left is to notify TN.

    * * *

    TN ENM''s Drama Business Division.

    It was already a tiring day, and the rain made it even heavier. The head of the drama department, sitting in the office with a bored face, read the approval request submitted by the team leader and his eyes widened.

    "Saetbyeol High? They want to go ahead with this now?"

    At TN, <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> was a headache. The director knew many writers personally, including writer Ki Juhyun, and understood her sentiments. However, he was in a position where he had to consider the higher-ups'' circumstances.

    He tilted his head as he checked the name of the director.

    <i>Director Yoo Jaeho.''</i>

    Yoo Jaeho.

    He was a director who had suddenly be the talk of the town with <The Last Diner>. It was important that he didn''t just make an independent film, but a sessful'' independent film.

    In truth, the director didn''t know much about Yoo Jaeho. All he knew was that he was a director famous for animation.

    If he hadn''t won an award at the Busan International Film Festival, that would have been the end of it.

    <i>No affiliation, just started making films, so there shouldn''t be any bad rtions.''</i>

    Above all, <The Last Diner> was a film distributed by TN.

    <i>This should be okay from the top.''</i>

    The director immediately called the team leader.

    "Is this all settled? Have you met Director Yoo Jaeho?"

    "Yes. He contacted us directly."

    "Really?"

    The director asked with a furrowed brow.

    "But would writer Ki agree? After all the trouble till now."

    "That''s the thing"

    The team leader scratched his head.

    "It was writer Ki Juhyun who first suggested working together."

    "Huh? Really?!"

    "Yes. Writer Ki asked to convey that she really wants to work with Director Yoo Jaeho. Oh, and JJ Entertainment has requested a meeting regarding this matter."

    Hearing the news in session, the director rubbed his forehead.

    A script that no one was paying attention to suddenly approached the threshold of production. This meant someone was forcibly pushing it forward.

    "Whoever it is they''re like a bulldozer, a real bulldozer."

    Clearly, someone at JJ Entertainment must have really liked the script.

    At that time, no one could have guessed that someone'' was Han Yooil.

    * * *

    A few days earlier.

    After reading the script for <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High>, Yoo Jaeho immediately eximed that he needed to meet Ki Juhyun.

    Yooil quickly contacted her. The appointment was set promptly.

    And so, the first meeting began.

    At first, it seemed a bit awkward

    "Here, this scene''s ending, I personally really like it. It''s lonely yet chilling it''d be great if we could get the right atmosphere."

    "Thank you for noticing. Someone suggested adding a kiss scene right here."

    "You''re kidding! That director? Did he really say that? To suddenly add a kiss scene here?"

    "I tell you!"

    "Wow, that''s insane!"

    "That''s what I''m saying!"

    ''

    Just 30 minutes ago, they were awkwardly exchanging first greetings.

    <i>They''ve be fast friends.''</i>

    Yooil quietly watched the two, who seemed to get along as if they''d known each other for ten years.

    <i>It seems like the project has found its perfect match.''</i>

    Yes. This is good news.

    After the meeting that day, Ki Juhyun reached out to Yooil separately.

    Thank you, Mr. Actor. I''ve been really worried.

    Yooil smiled faintly, touched by Ki Juhyun''s sincere words.

    "It''s nothing. It''s all thanks to your good writing."

    "Anyone would recognize it as a good project. Even if it wasn''t me, it would have been produced someday."

    Yooil spoke sincerely. After a long silence, Ki Juhyun spoke.

    Really, thank you. Mr. Actor.

    Her voice seemed to tremble slightly as she spoke.

    * * *

    After that day, Ki Juhyun''s demeanor softened. She said she was sleeping better than before, and it showed on her face.

    If it had been a terrestrial drama, getting it scheduled might have been a problem.

    However, <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> was a series optimized for OTT. It was set to be released simultaneously on general programming channels and Newblix. That fact alleviated much of her worries.

    Among industry insiders, a release in the first half of next year was considered certain, and articles revealing only basic information started to appear sporadically in portal sites.

    - Uing Newblix releases for next year list is out

    [(Article link)

    Personally, The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High looks interesting]

    Didn''t Saetbyeol High start production before? Is it finallying out?

    I think it got canceled back then

    Wow, Han Yooil is the lead.

    Yooil is really hitting it big.

    Seems like he''s the most sessful among the new male actors.

    Honestly, Yooil''s acting is beyond amazing.

    2222

    3333333

    Ah, I''m excited I love horror stuff.

    Seriously, there''s a shortage of good horror.

    Hope it''s well made.

    Yooil closed the window Brion had opened and got out of the car. He was now familiar with the underground parking lot of the Sangam office building.

    "I''ll be around here. Call me if you need anything!"

    Min Woojin hade along because it was the shooting day for <The Mysterious Garden>. On his way to the set, Yooil decided to drop by Yoo Jaeho''s studio.

    Ki Juhyun and Yoo Jaeho were busy with the final revisions, meeting twice a week. That day, Yooil was also able to meet writer Ki Juhyun at Director Yoo Jaeho''s studio.

    Yoo Jaeho was already waiting for him, with coffee prepared.

    "Bigpanies do have their perks. Plenty of support. I was really surprised when I saw the preliminary budget proposal."

    Yoo Jaehoughed heartily but added cautiously, noticing Ki Juhyun''s suddenly darkened expression, "Of course, that doesn''t mean everything''s perfect."

    Listening to their conversation while drinking coffee, Yooil cautiously intervened.

    "Director, would it be possible for me to know the detailed schedule for the pre-production phase?"

    "Of course!"

    Ki Juhyun, sipping her coffee beside him, suddenly asked, puzzled,

    "But why do you need the detailed schedule? You''re not investing in this project, are you?"

    "No, it''s not that"

    Yooil replied as if it was the most natural thing in the world.

    "I want to audition."

    "?"

    Yooil''s words left Yoo Jaeho and Ki Juhyun in silence for a few seconds, exchanging bewildered nces.

    "You''re joking, right?"

    "You, an actor, want to audition?"

    Yooil looked back and forth between a flustered Yoo Jaeho and Ki Juhyun.

    "Yes. I really want to be part of it. Any role is fine."

    "But that''s not the point"

    To be so passionately involved in getting the production off the ground and then to say any role would do.

    Most actors would naturally think of a lead role in such a situation.

    <i>Well, this is Yooil.''</i>

    Seeing Yooil, who hadn''t changed much since theirst shoot, Yoo Jaeho smiledfortably.

    Ki Juhyun, who also burst intoughter, teasingly said,

    "What should we do? We already have a favored candidate."

    Then she pointed at Han Yooil and said,

    "Mr. Actor, from now on, you''re my Hojun''."

 Chapter 48:

    Chapter 48:

    "Me?" Yooil blinked, genuinely surprised.

    "Who else but you, Mr. Actor?" he was asked in return. It wasn''t that the role wasn''t tempting.

    The character Min Hojun from The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High'' was quite charming indeed. However, Yooil didn''t want to ept the role out of mere gratitude.

    "You don''t have to go out of your way for me. It''s a project you''ve been preparing for a long time," Yooil tried to decline politely.

    "Mr. Actor," Ki Juhyun replied with a deliberately stern face, "Are you dismissing my judgment now?"

    "What? No, that''s not what I meant,"

    Yooil hurried to rify, but Ki Juhyun justughed off his concern, "And you should know, I''ve had you in mind for this role even before we started production."

    "Really?" Yooil couldn''t hide his surprise. Yoo Jaeho, who was next to him, chimed in, nodding, "That''s true. I''ve heard that ever since watching Sing in High School'', writer Juhyun has been quite taken with you, Mr. Han Yooil."

    "Of course! How could I not be? If I were a writer, I''d send you thank-you letters every day!" Ki Juhyun eximed, her passionate response startling Yooil for a moment. "I was actually worried you might not ept another high school drama since you''ve already done one!"

    "But Min Hojun and Seon Gihyeon arepletely different characters," Yooil pointed out.

    "Anyway! If it''s not you as Hojun, then I''m not interested in anyone else for the role, just so you know."

    During the car ride, Yooil couldn''t stop thinking about The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High''. Ki Juhyun''s words about not underestimating her judgment echoed in his mind. Just as he had recognized something in Ki Juhyun''s work, she too had seen something in him.

    Staring out the window, Yooil smiled faintly, feeling a breeze in his heart. Ah, right.'' He suddenly remembered the mountain of tasks waiting for him. Engrossed in his thoughts, Yooil quickly focused and wrapped up his remaining assignments, saving the files with a sigh.

    <i>There''s still the fourth semester left.''</i>

    Time seemed to have flown by too quickly, each day packed with activities. Fortunately, thanks to takingmon liberal arts courses in advance, his remaining semesters allowed for more freedom in course selection. Hence, he deliberately filled this semester with online sses and courses with alternative assignment submissions.

    After narrowly submitting his assignment, Brion spoke to Yooil softly, It''s okay, Mr. Yooil. Except for Introduction to Korean Language and Literature'', your grades should be above B+.

    <i>Oh no, this semester'' </i>Yooil thought, imagining the earful he would have gotten from Kim Jinwoo. Just then, Min Woojin gently applied the brakes.

    "We''re here, Yooil!"

    "Thanks, hyung."

    Yooil had an action training session scheduled today at the action school, arranged by his agency. That''s why he was dressed in light training clothes. As he stepped out of the car, he entered arge container-like set. Inside, it resembled a spacious gym with various structures arranged throughout. As soon as he walked in, he could see action actors in ck performance tees practicing their moves.

    "Ah, hello! You are Mr. Han Yooil, right?" A robust man with broad shoulders and tanned skin greeted Yooil.

    "I''m Kim Jeonghoon," the man introduced himself.

    "Nice to meet you. I''m Han Yooil," Yooil replied. Kim Jeonghoon was a well-known action director in many films and dramas. After shaking hands with Yooil, he quickly started walking, guiding him through the ce and rapidly exining in his unique ent.

    "I''ve had the choreography for a while now, but the dance design was onlypleted the day before yesterday! Given it''s a work of Director Gu Chanik, I really put in a lot of effort. Striving for perfection can make it a bit challenging for beginners. We will make some adjustments as we practice with you, Mr. Actor" Kim Jeonghoon paused, stroking his chin, then shook his head. "Ah, I got carried away again. My wife always tells me to cut it short! Haha, sorry. Let me show you."

    With a heartyugh, Kim Jeonghoon pped twice, and two action actors took their positions in the center, quickly surrounded by about a dozen others.

    "The one with the red scarf is actor Hwang Yiwon, and the one with the blue scarf represents you, Mr. Yooil." Yooil watched intently. This scene, appearing in thetter half, unfolds after Hwang Yiwon''s past is revealed, and members of the organization he was part of invade the flower shop to eliminate him.

    One by one, the figures in ck approached the two in the center. The blue scarf stretched out an arm to block an attack, while the red scarf, wielding a shovel (currently represented by a cheer stick balloon), thrust it into the attacker''s midsection. The speed was faster than expected, bringing an automatic tension to the scene. And the action didn''t stop there. Kicking shins, choking necks, mming heads against walls

    "Wow," was all Yooil could say, mesmerized by the performance. Such scenes he had only seen in movies. <i>But how am I supposed to memorize all this?''</i>

    ''The Mysterious Garden'' Scene 72 action sequence, recordingplete. Ready for practice whenever you are. Brion''s voice was a wee sound.

    "Right, this is your first time with action scenes, Mr. Yooil, isn''t it?"

    "Yes, it''s my first."

    "Haha, this is going to be fun." Kim Jeonghoon looked at Yooil with an inscrutable smile. At that moment, Yooil had no idea what he meant by fun''.

    * * *

    "Panting gasping" Yooil realized something new. Action actors could be lethal.

    "Hard, isn''t it?"

    Yooil could barely nod in response, too out of breath to speak.

    "But you''re keeping up well. It''s rare for someone tost an hour in their first session." It seemed his regr exercise routine was somewhat paying off.

    "You have a good foundation, so we won''t need to spend too much time on training," said Kim Jeonghoon, and Yooil''s face lit up.

    "Really?"

    "Of course. I''m always honest, aren''t I?" Kim Jeonghoon continued with a robust voice and a grin. "Warm-up''s over. Shall we start? I''ll guide you slowly, so don''t worry too much. Let''s start by moving your right elbow in an arc."

    Yooil put down his sweat-soaked towel and stood up. ''The Mysterious Garden'' Scene 72 action sequence. Here it is. Alright.'' Yooil alternated between watching the video Brion disyed and following Kim Jeonghoon''s movements.

    Starting the actionpletion evaluation program.

    Evaluating the action you just performed Scene 72-1, actionpletion rate: 45%.

    <i>45%?''</i> Not even halfpleted.

    Hearing that motivated him even more. "Excuse me, Director. May I practice a bit more and then show you again?"

    "Sure! Oh, wait. It''s about time for a break." After a quick nce at his watch, Kim Jeonghoon pped loudly. "Let''s take a short break and then continue!"

    And so, the break began.

    Yooil took a few sips of water and readjusted his stance, ready to dive back into practice. As the practice session continued, the feedback from the actionpletion evaluation program kepting:

    Scene 72-1, actionpletion rate: 56%.

    Scene 72-1, actionpletion rate: 59%.

    Scene 72-1, actionpletion rate: 67%.

    Scene 72-1, actionpletion rate: 71%.

    Scene 72-1, actionpletion rate: 83%.

    Exhausted yet determined, Yooil finally felt like he was getting the hang of it after the relentless repetition during the break.

    "Mr. Han Yooil?!" Kim Jeonghoon returned from a restroom break and a phone call, only to find Yooil still sweating and practicing intensely. "It''s break time, why aren''t you resting?"

    "I want to make the most of the time before I leave," Yooil managed to say between breaths. Kim Jeonghoon was taken aback by Yooil''s dedication. He thought, He could use a stunt double for the tough action scenes, right?'' But Han Yooil seemed to have no intention of doing so. Is he ambitious about action scenes?''

    Kim Jeonghoon had noticed Yooil''s exceptional qualities right from the warm-up. His muscles were well-defined, and his core was strong. He seemed to maintain himself rigorously.<i> This determination is admirable.''</i>

    Nodding to himself, Kim Jeonghoon pped his hands loudly, summoning the action actors. "Shall we give it a try?" He didn''t expect much; it was only a short break, after all. Not enough time for a miraculous improvement, or so he thought. But then

    Kim Jeonghoon''s expression changed.

    <i>That''s quite impressive.''</i>

    He was mildly surprised when Yooil perfectly matched the first couple of moves. But as Yooil continued to follow the subsequent actions urately, Kim Jeonghoon''s face turned serious.

    <i>How did he get the posture right?''</i>

    Before the break, Yooil had several areas that needed improvement. Did he really improve this much in such a short time?''

    "Mr. Han Yooil?" Kim Jeonghoon asked as Yooil wiped off his sweat. "Have you been exercising?"

    "Not really," Yooil replied.

    Kim Jeonghoon, after a moment of puzzlement, raised his eyebrows and said, "Mr. Actor, you have talent."

    Kim Jeonghoon''s gaze was intense, like a coach scouting an athlete.

    <i>That''s a relief,''</i> Yooil thought to himself.

    The recordings from Brion had been a big help.

    Please continue to rely on me, Mr. Yooil.

    A few dayster, on the set of The Mysterious Garden'', Hwang Yiwon clenched and unclenched his fists, expressionless.

    It had been a while since hest filmed an action scene.

    <i>Feeling a bit nervous,'' </i>he thought.

    He had three main reasons for epting this movie. First, it was a work of Director Gu Chanik. Second, the character appealed to him. And third, it had action scenes. Although he was getting older and his agency preferred him to avoid strenuous action, he wasn''t ready to give up on action scenes just yet.

    Thus, he practiced with even greater diligence. Thest thing he wanted was to bebeled a washed-up actor.'' Above all, he didn''t want to feel embarrassed in front of Han Yooil, a talented neer.

    "72, scene 1, and action!" As Kim Hyukjin, Hwang Yiwon clenched his fist and got into position. While Sooil blocked an intruder''s attack with his arm, Hyukjin swiftly grabbed a shovel from the ground and jabbed it into the attacker''s sr plexus. Unlike Sooil''s rapid but somewhat wed movements, Hyukjin''s strikes were experienced and precise.

    While Sooil quickly leaped to strike the intruders on the head, Hyukjin aimed for their legs. His shovel moved in clean arcs, as if slicing through the intruders'' legs. Then, in the final moment, Sooil gets caught by the neck by thest remaining intruder. Hyukjin just looked on, his expression unreadable.

    "Cut!" The scene wrapped up with Director Gu Chanik''smand. They had been filming the same scene multiple times. Action scenes required a variety of cuts to maintain tension and dynamism, making the repeated takes a necessary evil.

    Exhausted, Hwang Yiwon sat down, breathing heavily. He was reaching his physical limits.

    <i>Can''t go on any longer.''</i>

    He gestured to his manager, who quickly understood and rushed to the assistant director. After a brief discussion, the assistant director announced loudly, "Great work, everyone! We''ll now proceed with the stunt doubles for filming."

    Everyone nodded in understanding; the physical toll of the day''s filming had been immense. The fact that they had been filming without stunt doubles until now was impressive in itself. That''s when it happened. Han Yooil spoke up.

    "I think I can keep going."

    Hwang Yiwon''s eyes widened slightly at Yooil''s words. The assistant director looked at him worriedly, "Uh, Mr. Yooil Are you sure? It''s okay not to push yourself too hard."

    "No, really, I''m fine. I think I can do it," Yooil insisted, shaking his head with a smile.

    Watching Han Yooil, Hwang Yiwon suddenly let out a chuckle. Then, after a brief stretch, he walked back in front of the camera.

    "Mr. Actor?" The staff, seemingly trying to dissuade him, received an it''s okay'' gesture from Hwang Yiwon.

    Han Yooil just quietly watched him. "Mr. Yooil," Hwang Yiwon found him intriguing. More precisely, every time he saw Yooil, he was reminded of his younger self. His energetic, passionate younger self in his 20s.

    "If Mr. Yooil is stepping up like that, how can I possibly rest?" In other words, Hwang Yiwon was impressed by him.

 Chapter 49:

    Chapter 49:

    Yooil looked at Hwang Yiwon with surprise. Hwang Yiwon met Director Gu Chanik''s gaze squarely and dered, "I''ll do it myself too."

    Those nearby were visibly startled by his statement.

    "Are you sure, Mr. Actor?" they asked, concerned.

    "Yes," came his firm reply.

    Director Gu Chanik remained silent, simply observing Hwang Yiwon. His earlier wordsabout not being able to rest if Yooil kept goingwere clearly sincere.

    Director Gu Chanik, ncing between Han Yooil and Hwang Yiwon, called his assistant director over with a subtle gesture.

    "Hoyeon?"

    "Yes?"

    "What do you think is most important to an actor?"

    The assistant director scratched his head, pondering before the monitor. "Mind and talent, perhaps?"

    "Talent is important, yes. Being smart too," Director Gu Chanik agreed. But he said nothing further, his gaze fixed on Han Yooil. Young and less experienced, Yooil was impressively adaptable and showed considerable drive and passion.

    <i>But there''s something even more crucial,'' </i>Director Gu Chanik thought as he watched Hwang Yiwon and Han Yooil warming up. They were aligning their movements, considering the camera angles.

    "What should we do, Director?" the assistant director asked.

    Director Gu Chanik nodded silently, and the filming resumed.

    * * *

    Han Yooil''s early autumn was entirely consumed by The Mysterious Garden.'' The shooting schedule had be even more intense due to Director Gu Chanik''s desire to capture the authentic ambiance of the season.

    "Props team, please set up Scene 82 as quickly as possible~"

    "Understood!"

    No one prefers a rushed filming set. Yet, surprisingly, the crew members didn''t find it as taxing as expected.

    "How many shoots are left after today?" a member of the art department asked.

    "After today, we have three more rounds left!" the youngest production team member answered.

    "It''s gone by so fast," the art department staff murmured, looking wistfully at the set. Soon, I won''t be seeing this set anymore.''

    Working in the art department, they had been on numerous film and drama sets. The Mysterious Garden'' was no less demanding than the others, but it was uniquely enjoyable. Even amidst the hectic work of checking sets and costumes, they would often find themselves transfixed by the performances of Han Yooil and Hwang Yiwon, forgetting their duties for a moment.

    Perhaps due to frequently witnessing them, the chemistry between the actors seemed to improve with each round. The art department staff watched the two actors, drenched in sweat and deeply immersed in practicing the final action scene, wearing just short-sleeved shirts.

    <i>Wow, they''re incredible.''</i>

    Startled out of their reverie by the assistant director and art director calling, they snapped back to reality.

    "Please have everything set up by 5 PM~"

    The uing scene was to be shot right after the climax, nearing the ending. The art department had prepared fake blood made from dye and oligosharide to ensure it didn''t solidify.

    The atmosphere on set was markedly different when preparing for the action scene. Some of the intruders who hade to the flower shop to cause havoc had recognized Sooil.

    "Master Sooil," they addressed him. Surprised by the form of address, Hyukjin momentarily lost focus, and in that instant, a de flew towards his heart. However, the next moment, it wasn''t Hyukjin who got hit.

    "Ah." Sooil stood in front of Hyukjin, a knife embedded in his back. "It really hurts"

    Enraged, Hyukjin overpowered the intruders with astonishing speed and strength. Yet, amidst the chaos, he was gued by one question: Why?''

    Hyukjin recalled the profile of Park Sooil he had constructed several times. Park Sooil, 20 years old, an only child. A graduate of the Prestigious Science High School, admitted to the National Science University but dropped out shortly after. His mother, a single parent, ran a clothing store. But the data revealed nothing significant.

    It was only when the fallen Sooil spoke that Hyukjin realized something. Even while coughing up blood, Sooil managed to say, "Does the National Intelligence Service teach you to fight like that?"

    "Since when did you know?" Hyukjin asked.

    Sooil, grimacing with pain, forced a smile. "Even like this, I have a good head on my shoulders."

    Sooil''s throat gurgled with blood. "Don''t talk," Hyukjin said, his voice still firm and cold, though his eyes betrayed his emotion. This wasn''t what he wanted.

    "Do you know how annoying that is, Boss?" Sooil smiled through his blood-soaked face.

    Then, Hyukjin realized why Park Sooil had seemed familiar from the moment he first saw him. Five years ago. As a former agent of the National Intelligence Service, he had been tasked with uncovering the distribution of a drug-infused beverage spreading through Daehak-ro. After months of joint investigations, he identified thepany manufacturing the drug beverage and its CEO, Go Hyungoo, who was orchestrating it.

    However, the arrest wasn''t straightforward. Go Hyungoo wasn''t an easy man to apprehend. His bodyguards, illegally armed, forced Hyukjin to draw his weapon as well. And then

    "I wanted to know who killed my father." Sooil''s eyes, the clearest he had ever shown, spoke volumes. "I quite liked my father."

    For Sooil, his father was not only a good father but also a man to admire. The cracks in that myth only started appearing four years after his father''s death, in the study his mother strictly forbade him from entering. There, he found things he shouldn''t have seen. Sooil realized then that he didn''t share his father''s surname and that his mother had never officially married him. Everything Sooil thought he knew about his father crumbled.

    Sooil wanted to prove that his roots weren''t tarnished. That''s when he started poring over the Detective-Agent List'' his father had organized, narrowing down suspects. The encounters between Sooil and Hyukjin, seemingly coincidental, were all part of Park Sooil''s n.

    "I wanted to ask, cough, you about it."

    "I said don''t talk."

    "But it''s alright now."

    For the first time, Hyukjin''s eyes wavered. He didn''t know what to do as he looked at Sooil.

    "It''s cold."

    Hyukjin felt helpless. There was nothing he could do.

    Waiting for the ambnce, Kim Hyukjin could do nothing but watch the young man before him. He knelt down, sitting next to the foolishly smart and pitifully dying child.

    "Cut!" Director Gu Chanik meticulously reviewed the monitoring before nodding his head. It was undoubtedly okay.

    During a break, Hwang Yiwon, panting, approached Yooil, holding an empty water bottle. Instead of looking for fresh water, he sat down beside Yooil.

    "Yes, senior," Yooil replied.

    "You said you''ve never studied acting at an academy or school."

    "That''s right," Yooil nodded and handed his unopened water bottle to Hwang Yiwon, who took it and drank eagerly.

    "Ah, that''s life-saving." Hwang Yiwon ran his hand through his sweaty hair and leaned his head back. It was the most rxed Yooil had ever seen him. "I went to the U.S. about eight years ago for a Meisner Technique acting camp."

    Yooil had heard of the Meisner Technique.

    The Meisner Technique'' was developed by Sanford Meisner, an American actor and acting teacher born in 1905 and deceased in 1997.

    Hwang Yiwon continued, "I felt limited in my acting and wanted to learn properly."

    "Did you go without telling anyone?"

    Hwang Yiwon nodded. "I didn''t even tell my agency. It was my first time doing something like that. Everyone was surprised, but I don''t regret it."

    He showed Yooil some photos from the program, looking unrecognizable with nerdy sses, outdated clothes, and long hair.

    "Do you know what was the most important thing I learned there?" He smiled faintly and continued, "Say what you mean, mean what you say."

    "So, act like you''re not acting?"

    Hwang Yiwon nodded. "But that''s the hardest part. That''s when I realized some people can, and some can''t."

    He took another sip of water and said slowly, "And I think, Han Yooil, you''re one of those who can."

    Before Yooil could respond, Hwang Yiwon got up. "Do you like fishing?"

    Yooil, unsure of the appropriate response in this context, said, "I''ve never tried it."

    "That''s a pity," Hwang Yiwon murmured. "I thought it''d be nice to go together before it gets cold."

    "I''m always up for it, senior."

    "Well, I''m not sure," Hwang Yiwon said, tilting his head slightly. "After this movie releases, I think you''ll be even busier."

    Yooil blurted out, "Thank you, senior."

    "For what?" Hwang Yiwon asked.

    "I''ve learned a lot," Yooil said earnestly, but Hwang Yiwon just chuckled in response.

    "So have I."

    As Yooil awkwardly smiled, he suddenly remembered something and rummaged through his pocket, pulling out his phone. "I just realized we''ve never taken a photo together."

    Hwang Yiwon seemed a bit surprised but soon joined Yooil with a look of amusement. "You really can''t take photos, can you?"

    "Sorry" Yooil apologized, but Hwang Yiwon took over and snapped a perfect selfie, except for that minor hup. Later that afternoon, the selfie they took spread like wildfire across various social media tforms.

    Look at this

    [(Photo)]

    Wow

    How does Hwang Yiwon never age?

    It feels so surreal

    Han Yooil looks so handsome

    These two are in the same movie? Can''t wait!

    Already loving it

    And it''s a Gu Chanik film, no less!

    The anticipation for the movie grew exponentially.

    * * *

    The filming of The Mysterious Garden'' was sessfully concluded. The movie had already been submitted to the Berlin International Film Festival''s feature film category as a rough cut and was scheduled for a premiere screening in the first half of the next year.

    Choi Hoyeon, the assistant director, was organizing the movie''s production diary and reflected on the filming process. The script was interesting from the start, and he had a feeling the movie would turn out well. But the atmosphere on this set was unlike any other Gu Chanik project.

    Movies are often driven more by direction and editing than by actors. The job of a director is to bring out the best in an actor''s performance and, even if the on-screen performance iscking, to create the desired atmosphere through post-production dubbing, editing, and sound. This is why direction is crucial, especially in Gu Chanik''s projects.

    However, this set was different. "The actors were at the core."

    Good atmosphere creators among actors? Sure, they exist. Talented actors? Quite a few. Actors with good personality? Rare, but they exist. But an actor who embodies all three is almost unicorn-like.

    "I thought such people were unicorns," Choi Hoyeon mumbled as she looked at her screeny, which had gone through several drafts. It had been 15 years since she entered the film industry, learning and growing by Gu Chanik''s side. She had been preparing for her directorial debut for years.

    "If I get to make my movie with this script" She looked at Han Yooil''s profile, the same one she received the day Gu Chanik first mentioned Han Yooil''s name. "I''d want to cast him as the lead."

    At the same time, Yooil, lying in bed with his eyes closed, heard a voice in his head. Goal Level 2: 91.8% achieved.

 Chapter 50:

    Chapter 50:

    During the casting period for The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High,'' Yooil was on his way to Wolmyeong University.

    "Are you sure I don''t need to go?!" Min Woojin had called in the morning, worried. To alleviate his concern, Yooil, following Woojin''s advice, wore a hat and headed to the university. It had been a while since he attended the university in person due to the online sses and the hectic filming schedule.

    The ss he attended was Introduction to Korean Linguistics.'' Thanks to arrangements made through the department office, his attendance was somewhat recognized through substitute assignments. However, as it was an offline major course, he had to personally present the final assignment.

    The Korean linguistics professor, wearing sses and her hair tied back, raised her eyebrows when she saw Han Yooil. "It''s been quite a while since I''ve seen you in ss. You did well on your mid-term report. Why don''t youe more often?"

    Yooil, feeling his face heat up from embarrassment and guilt for hisck of attendance, bowed slightly. "I''m sorry, professor."

    "Haha, I''m just kidding. I''m enjoying your drama. I just started watching Sing in High School'' yesterday." The professor chatted about the drama for a while before Yooil''s presentation began.

    Yooil''s presentation was on grammar, specifically about the root (), affixes (dependent morphemes that mustbine with the root to appear in sentences), and word formation. Thanks to memorizing the presentation script the night before, his delivery was smooth.

    <i>Wow.''</i>

    The students nced at each other, impressed.

    <i>His voice is really nice.''</i>

    But it wasn''t just his voice and looks.

    <i>The quality of his PowerPoint presentation is something else.''</i>

    <i>Did he make that all by himself?''</i>

    It was clear his presentation wasn''t just ast-minute effort to pass the time.

    "That concludes my presentation. This was Han Yooil."

    When he finished, the professor nodded with satisfaction. "It was neat. All the necessary content was included, and you kept to the presentation time perfectly. Well done."

    Well done, Yooil. Yooil breathed a sigh of relief.

    <i>Thank goodness.''</i>

    It felt like he had climbed over a huge mountain.

    Meanwhile, social media was abuzz:

    Today at Wolmyeong University, Han Yooil

    [(Photo) P.S. Got permission to take the photo]

    OMG

    Even wearing a hat, he shines

    What''s he doing? Giving a presentation?

    It''s an Introduction to Korean Linguistics'' ss

    Mom, I want to major in Korean Literature

    Dang, should''ve audited the ss..

    I''m a student at Wolmyeong University, and I saw Han Yooil on campus today

    [(Photo) Saw a tall, stylish person walking by, and my friend told me it was Han Yooil so I snapped a photo in a hurry]

    Look at those legs

    Can I see him if I go to Wolmyeong University?

    Damn, should''ve studied more. Parents are never wrong.

    LOL

    His handsomeness pierces through the low resolution

    Seriously, even in a blurry photo, you can tell he''s handsome LOL

    Lee Hyejin, reading thements, clenched her fist and mmed the desk.

    <i>Why did he have toe when I''m not there!''</i>

    Despite her sadness, she couldn''t resist saving the photos. Even in sorrow, she couldn''t give up on collecting his pictures.

    After saving all the photos, Lee Hyejin shifted her gaze to theputer screen disying a list of news articles:

    [Exclusive] The production team of the hit Sing in High School'' heads for a reward vacation

    [Photo] Ji Eunho, Kim Harang, Han Yooil, Off to Vietnam~''

    [Photo] Star'' of Sing in High School'' off for a reward vacation, Refreshing Smile''

    <i>He must be really enjoying it.''</i>

    It was the happiest face Yooil had shown in any official event photo.

    While browsing through the articles, Lee Hyejin sped her hands and hoped,<i> I hope he enjoys the trip and shares lots of photos.''</i>

    <i>* * *</i>

    "Really?!" Kim Harang, with sunsses hooked on the cor of his white T-shirt and a wide-brimmed hat, looked at Han Yooil in astonishment. "Yooil, is this really your first trip abroad?"

    "Yeah."

    "Wow, we have to have so much fun!" Harang assured, tapping his chest confidently.

    Yooil was at the airport with the production team of Sing in High School,'' heading out for a bted reward vacation. The dy in the vacation was mainly due to the idols'' tight schedules, making it challenging to coordinate dates. Yooil himself had stayed up all nightpleting assignments to enjoy this 3-day break.

    Ji Eunho was as silent as usual, but the size of his luggage for such a short trip was eye-catching. "Eunho, are you nning to sneak away for a ten-day vacation without telling us?" someone joked.

    "No," Eunho replied.

    "Last night, Eunho kept packing and unpacking his clothes! He even brought three types of sunscreen!" Harang revealed, causingughter among the production team. Eunho quietly moved his massive luggage behind him.

    Hyena and Byul were also excited. "I''ve traveled abroad for schedules, but this is the first time I''m flying for a vacation since I was in elementary school."

    "Actors, it''s time to move," a staff member directed.

    As they began to move, reporters and fans who had heard the news gathered at the airport. The idol actors, excluding Yooil, greeted the fans and exchanged eye contact like professionals. As Yooil waved to the reporters and started to walk away, a loud shout echoed through the airport.

    "Yooil~~!"

    Everyone turned in surprise. The source of the roar was a young woman, barely in her twenties. As soon as her eyes met Yooil''s, her face turned tomato red.

    "Ah!" Yooil slowly approached her. The young woman, as if she hadn''t just screamed, shyly spoke up, "I I''m a fan of yours"

    Yooil, mostly interacting with fans through social media, rarely had face-to-face interactions with them. But he maintained hisposure and smiled.

    "Thank you."

    The fan handed him a small white paper bag. "This is sunscreen I thought you might not have packed any Please use it"

    "Uh"

    Yooil was taken aback, not expecting a gift. The fan, looking nervous, blurted out, "If you don''t like it!! You can exchange it!! The receipt is inside!!"

    Yooil''s face momentarily showed confusion. "No, I was actually thinking that it''s too precious for me to use. I usually don''t use gifts I receive."

    The fan, speaking passionately, urged him, "No, no! Please use it! Use it liberally!"

    Yooil chuckled softly at her enthusiasm. "Thank you, truly. I''ll use it well."

    Then, from a distance, someone called out for Yooil. "Yooil! We need to go now!"

    Yooil exchanged a final farewell with the fan before heading to board the ne.

    The girl remained in a daze for a long time, watching his retreating figure. Her reason for bing a fan was unique; it was Han Yooil''s cameo appearance in How We Ended Up'' that had captivated her. She had been recording a video, so absorbed in the moment that she forgot she was even doing it.

    <i>Right, the video!''</i>

    The footage was shaky, but at least it captured a close-up of Han Yooil''s face.

    <i>I need to edit and upload this quickly.''</i>

    And that night, a new channel named OnlyYooil'' was created on OTube. The first video uploaded by OnlyYooil'' was a short clip of Yooil receiving the gift before his departure. In a few days, the video garnered 600,000 views, withments ranging from admiration to yful jests about the sunscreen gift.

    Yooil had never anticipated such a response.

    * * *

    The Sing in High School'' team, upon arriving in Vietnam, started their reward vacation with massages, sightseeing at night, and exploring Hoi An city center the next morning. They enjoyed a leisurely schedule, indulging in local cuisine and basket boat rides.

    <i>It feels strange to rx and do nothing.''</i>

    Initially, Yooil had such thoughts, but as his body rxed, his mind followed. The group had some free time before their next massage appointment, and some cast and crew members decided to dive into the hotel swimming pool. Yooil joined them initially but soon retreated to a sunbed, watching others engage in yful water fights.

    "Ooh, should we try this?" Harang challenged Byul, who responded, "You won''t get away with it, senior!"

    While Yooil observed Harang and Byul''s earnest water gun battle, his phone buzzed with a text from Min Woojin, his manager.

    Min Woojin Manager: Yooil, having fun?

    Yes, hyung.

    Yooil snapped a photo of Kim Harang and Ji Eunho enthusiastically spraying water at each other and sent it back.

    Min Woojin Manager: Haha, looks like a st! Enjoy yourself and rx!

    Min Woojin Manager: By the way, the casting for The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High'' is almost confirmed!!

    Before Yooil could process the news, another message came through.

    Min Woojin Manager: But Yooil, after The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High'', you might have to dive straight into another project.

    <i>?''</i>

    Yooil immediately called him.

    "What do you mean, hyung?"

    We''ve received several scripts. The nning team has shortlisted a few, and you can decide after reviewing them. For now, just rx and recharge!

    After the call, Brion''s voice resonated in Yooil''s mind. Stage 2 Goal 100% achieved. 100%?'' Yooil wondered when that had happened. The criteria for each stage had been unclear, and he hadn''t been particrly focused on the goals, but thepletion of stage 2 was unexpected.

    Leaning back on the sunbed, Yooil gazed at the clear sky. That''s when

    Starting phase 3 now Brion''s message abruptly cut off.

    ?

    Brion had never paused in its speech on its own until Yooil interrupted it.

    Taken aback, Yooil slightly raised himself.

    Brion?

    At that moment, a strangenguage resonated in his head.

    No, it was less anguage and more akin to a distorted mechanical sound.

    @&%@#$%

    Along with it, a translucent window floated in front of his eyes.

    October 20, 2310

    The year disyed on the window began to change incessantly.

    October 20, 2030

    October 20, 2130

    October 20, 2090

    October 20, 2212

    .

    .

    .

    As the years fluctuated wildly, Brions voice resounded.

    Error detected.

    <i>What?</i>

    Error detected. Error detected. Error detected. Error detected. Error detected. Error detected. Error detected.

    Brion began to repeat the same phrase like a broken robot.

    <i>What the heck</i>

    Before Han Yooil could grasp the situation, Brion continued in a stato voice.

    Code TTE011 is now being executed.

    Subsequently, Brion emitted a menacing sound.

    AI Nano Dictionary, emergency self-destruct mechanism of Brion V.15 is now activated.

    An emergency self-destruct mechanism.

    It felt as unreal as when he first heard Brions voice.

    The device connected to the cerebral cortex neuralwork will explode in 30 seconds. 30, 29, 28

    Han Yooil couldntprehend anything.

    One thing was clear: this situation wasnt a fabrication by Brion.

    <i>Think, I need to think.</i>

    But no thoughts came. His whole body turned cold with tension.

    It was as if someone had drained all the blood from his body.

    Where did it all go wrong?

    10, 9, 8

    Damn it.

    6, 5, 4, 3

    It was then.

    The incessantly decreasing numbers halted.

    The next moment, the same distorted mechanical sound that he had heard before echoed.

    $%@#$%

    And a few secondster, Brion spoke in its usual tone.

    Alternate code TTEE001 is now being executed.

    .

    .

    .

    The previous error has been partially corrected.

 Chapter 51:

    Chapter 51:

    <i>I don''t n on dying before thirty.</i>

    The error was only partially corrected? Han Yooil murmured with a vacant expression, to which Brion responded calmly.

    Yes.

    The correction is as follows: If the 5-phase goal is not 100% achieved within 3 years, the emergency self-destruct mechanism will be activated.

    As blood slowly started flowing in his frozen mind, warmth gradually returned to his chilled body. Han Yooil swallowed; his mouth had gonepletely dry.

    <i>Why was the self-destruct mechanism activated all of a sudden? And whats this alternate code?</i>

    Due to central system control, the Brion V.15 program was set as error. Consequently, the TTE code and the alternate TTEE code were executed.

    <i>TTE code? What''s TTEE?</i>

    I''m sorry, Mr. Yooil. Currently, I cannot provide detailed exnations about the TTE and TTEE codes.

    <i></i>

    Yooil clenched his fist tightly, dissatisfied with Brion''s evasive answer.

    Cant even punch it.

    <i>Stay calm.</i>

    Central system control, TTE code

    These unfamiliar terms wandered through his mind.

    If Brion truly was an AI program from the future, then it shouldnt be possible to control the central system from the present.

    <i>What exactly is happening?</i>

    One thing was certain: he had just barely skirted death.

    Vietnam could have been his first andst trip abroad.

    I am sorry, Mr. Yooil.

    He nearly blurted out an angry retort, but Yooil managed to regain hisposure.

    After all, Brion was just an AI without a self.

    If it was about central system control, then someones intervention was evident.

    <i>You said the code was modified.</i>

    That is correct.

    <i>So, instead of exploding <right now>, it will explode if I don''t achieve the 5-phase goal <within 3 years>?</i>

    Correct. Mr. Yooil, you need to achieve the 5-phase goal within 3 years.

    After swallowing his dry spit, Yooil finally organized his thoughts.

    <i>What are these phase-by-phase goals? Can I know thepletion rate before entering the project?</i>

    Thepletion rate for each phase involves very detailed and various factors. To summarize, it includes acting skills, reputation as an actor, box office sess and artistic value of the participated projects, and the number of participated projects. As the rate may vary depending on the situation even within the same project, it''s impossible to disclose a quantitative figure before the project ends.

    Damn it.

    In other words, there was no clear answer.

    <i>Are you saying I should just act in whateveres my way?</i>

    I can tell you about the themes for each phase. The theme for the 3rd phase is Reinterpretation,'' the 4th phase is Making It Your Own,'' and the 5th phase is Emptiness.

    For your reference, the 1st phase theme was Beginning,'' and the 2nd phase theme was Confidence.''

    It was like being given a multiple-choice question but with the answers concealed.

    I will do my best to assist you, Mr. Yooil.

    <i>Thats the least convincing thing youve said so far.</i>

    Since the activation of your Brion V.15 True Calling Route,'' 1 year and 6 months have passed, and during that period, you have achieved 100% of the 2nd phase goal.

    Brion spoke quickly, as if in protest.

    With me, Mr. Yooil, you can achieve your goals at the highest speed.

    The urge to grab and tie up whoever was responsible for this situation, be they a developer or a mysterious figure from the future, surged within him. Yet

    <i>Theres no way to do that.</i>

    Yooil pondered with an expressionless face.

    1.5 years to achieve the 2nd phase.

    It meant, roughly, that he had achieved one phase goal every 9 months so far.

    <i>So, I have to achieve 3 phases in the next 3 years.</i>

    Correct, Mr. Yooil.

    This, when thought about it.

    Seems doable.

    If things continued at a simr pace, that is.

    <i>But how can I trust you?</i>

    Brion V.15 always prioritizes the users sessful route and safety.

    Just then, a delightful scream pierced his ears.

    Ahhh!

    Harang, having his water gun snatched by Hyena, was helplessly getting drenched.

    Han Yooil lifted his head.

    In thergest and most beautiful swimming pool he had ever seen, his fellow actors, with whom he had been acting for months, were calling him.

    Ahh! Yooil hyung!

    No! Don''t help Harang, senior! If you join our side, well give you a water gun!

    Please trust me, Mr. Yooil.

    <i>Do not disturb mode.</i>

    Han Yooil, with hisplicated thoughts put aside, wore a transparent smile.

    Coming.

    Ssh-

    Yooil leapt into the swimming pool where his colleagues were joyously sshing water. The cool water embraced his skin.

    Now that it hade to this, he had to make it work.

    Whether it was the 5th phase or the 10th phase.

    <i>At least, I dont n on dying before thirty.</i>

    * * *

    [@jinnnny Ha.. Thank you, Harang and Hyena (photo) (photo)]

    [@dbdlf_tkfkd OMG, thank you.]

    [@jinnnny Bowing in all four directions right now.]

    An office worker was browsing through Shasta and BlueChat, collecting photos of Han Yooil. It had been only two days since Han Yooil returned from the reward vacation of "Sing in High School."

    Ironically, since Han Yooil had only postedndscape photos, there was nothing much to extract from his own Shasta.

    Therefore, Yooil''s fans were scouring the SNS of his fellow actors to gather photos featuring Han Yooil.

    The photos posted by the @jinnny ount were also obtained from the Shasta of Kim Harang and Hyena.

    In the first photo, Han Yooil was sitting in a basket boat, wearing a thin short-sleeved T-shirt and blue half-pants. The slightly tilted angle and the hair fluttering in the wind made it look like a movie still.

    <i>Harang takes good photos. Is it because hes an idol?</i>

    The office worker, pleased, saved the photo. Another photo to be pinned next to thepany monitor.

    While they were saving thest photo, an rm from BlueChat went off.

    [@yuulll_33 OMG, the casting for Saetbyeol High is out. (photo)]

    As if enchanted, the office worker clicked on the photo capturing the article.

    Writer Ki Juhyun X Director Yoo Jaeho unite for <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High>

    [Exclusive] Han Yooil, Park Younghyun, and Kim Suna cast in Newblixs first high teen horror series <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High>

    <i>Park Younghyun and Kim Suna?</i>

    Both were formidable actors who had been active since their childhood days.

    Especially, Kim Suna had recently received the Best Supporting Actress award at the Baeksang Arts Awards and the Blue Dragon Film Awards for her role in the movie <Annoying Life>, distinguishing herself among her 20-something female acting peers.

    <i>Park Younghyun still looks quite young, but his image does fit well.</i>

    The office worker nodded, concluding their thoughts on the casting.

    Regardless of the details, they were eager to see it.

    * * *

    Han Yooil learned about the casting for <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> shortly after he had returned from Vietnam.

    Park Younghyun and Kim Suna.

    Yooil was a bit surprised when he first heard the news from Yoo Jaeho.

    Both actors were only a year or two older than him, but their careers were at least a decade longer.

    Park Younghyun was from the same agency, but they had never met.

    <i>The casting and the script reading schedule were fixed surprisingly fast.</i>

    It was a relief for Yooil.

    Since returning from Vietnam, he had been keeping himself purposefully busy. Otherwise, he would keep thinking about the moment he heard the error message.

    Han Yooil focused on his tasks to avoid any thoughts.

    Both actors readily agreed to join the drama without much hesitation. They really liked the script.

    Listening to Brion, now morepliant after the error, Yooil nodded.

    <i>Thats good.</i>

    Had the free period been postponed, Yooil''s winter would have been even more anxious.

    <i>Let''s not think about it anymore.</i>

    And with that, he looked down at the script in his hands.

    It was the first part of <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> he had received a few days ago.

    The overall content is simr, but I tweaked the dialogues and atmosphere slightly after the casting!

    That was what the writer Ki Juhyun had said during a call with Yooil a few days ago.

    Indeed, the script was modified to better match the images of the actors.

    Im looking forward to the reading session, actor!

    And today was the day of that reading session.

    As soon as Yooil got into the car, Min Woojin greeted him with his usual bright smile.

    Yooil, did you sleep well yesterday?

    Ah Yes.

    Thanks to Brion, who had forced him to sleep early for the script reading.

    Thats good~ You look much better today. Youve been looking pale thesest few days; I was wondering what was up.

    Yooil offered a vague smile and then turned his gaze back to the script.

    Were meeting new actors today, right?

    Yes, thats right.

    Min Woojin lowered his voice in the car with just the two of them and continued.

    So I did some checking, and they say Kim Sunas agency is not ordinary. Theyre notoriously meddlesome during shooting. Apparently, the director is quite determined about it.

    The agency interferes on set?

    Yeah! Thats why there are rumors.

    And Park Younghyun is from our agency but hes pretty new. Joined about three months before you did.

    Oh, is that so?

    That person''s previous agency was a bit

    Seeing Yooil''s puzzled expression, Min Woojin shook his head and added,

    The rumors aren''t good. There are even talks about connections with the mafia Anyway, from what I''ve heard, it seems like theyve been through a lot. Of course, I don''t know them well.

    Ah.

    And, they say both are really ambitious about their acting. So, I heard acting alongside them wouldnt be too bad.

    Yooil''s face brightened with a faint smile as he watched Min Woojin casually discuss the actors'' backgrounds.

    What, whats that smile for?

    You seem quite different from when we first met.

    You dont mean that in a bad way, do you?

    I meant you seem like a professional manager.

    At that, Min Woojin''s chubby cheeks flushed slightly. With his cheeks rounded and high, he eximed,

    Ah, not quite there yet but Ill work on it! Haha.

    Im serious, hyung.

    Min Woojin drove on, a bit unsure how to react, fixing his gaze straight ahead.

    Yooil realized anew why people often teased him.

    * * *

    Soon, Yooil arrived at the reading venue, which was the familiar workshop of Yoo Jaeho.

    Ah, Yooil youre early

    Yoo Jaeho looked somewhat disappointed, and behind him, Ki Juhyun strutted out confidently, arms crossed.

    See? I told you Actor Yooil would be the first to arrive.

    Damn.

    Yoo Jaeho took out a ten-thousand-won bill from his pocket and handed it to Ki Juhyun.

    You bet that Suna would be the first to arrive.

    You make bets on such things?

    It''s fun, isnt it?

    Ki Juhyun shrugged his shoulders nonchntly.

    As Yooil sat down and hydrated himself with water, the door opened again.

    As soon as the door opened, what caught the eye was long, soft hair cascading down almost to the waist.

    Bright hazel eyes set in a small, pale face scanned the interior of the workshop.

    It was Kim Suna.

    Despite her youthful, round face, there was something about her calm, almost cold gaze that made her seem not so easily approachable.

    Following her, Park Younghyun knocked on the door of the workshop. He was an actor with sharp, single-lidded eyes, a slightly angled jaw, and healthy skin.

    You all must have had a hard timeing here~ I debated whether to rent a whole room or not, but decided it would be better to keep it private, so here we all are.

    Yoo Jaeho continued with a chuckle,

    The reading might take quite a long time, so I specifically asked the agencies to clear the schedule for today. You all know that, right? Youre okay with staying up all night if needed, right?

    Despite Yoo Jaehos yful tone, everyone was serious. Seeing the actors nodding readily, Director Yoo Jaeho coughed awkwardly.

    Cough Alright. Lets start the reading then.

    And the actors turned the first page of their scripts.

    Ki Juhyun watched the scene with moist eyes. Her work, buried and gathering dust for years, was finally being brought into the bright light.

 Chapter 52:

    Chapter 52:

    <i>Finally, it starts.</i>

    Park Younghyun took a quick sip of water.

    He was feeling anxious.

    In fact, Younghyun had been feeling anxious for quite a while.

    It had been 20 years since he started acting with the role in <Open, Magic Door>, when his memories were still vague due to his young age.

    Now he was 24 years old.

    Over the years, his acting skills had been recognized, and he had evenpleted his military service early.

    To those who heard this far, his worries were iprehensible.

    Why worry, actor? It''s just the beginning for you.

    Young, talented, no military service issues. Isn''t it just about building your career now?

    But there was a problem.

    A big problem.

    The problem was that he still couldnt shake off his image from <Open, Magic Door>.

    While Son Jisoo, who starred in the same drama, naturally underwent an image transformation after going through puberty, Park Younghyun did not.

    His childhood face still lingered.

    Aww, I got it! I''ll help you!

    Open, magic fortune!

    Park Younghyun at the age of four.

    The public still hadnt forgotten the lines he delivered cutely with cheeks one could bite and tiny hands moving.

    Park Younghyun is shooting a new drama?

    Oh, the Magic Door kid?

    Being unforgettable to the public was a blessing, but to the young Park Younghyun, it was an overwhelming amount of attention.

    At some point, his heart started to sink at the mere mention of Magic Door''.

    In the 3rd year of middle school, during the height of his puberty, he wanted to run away from everything.

    How long will I remain the Magic Door kid?

    When he shouted this while crying, his mother firmly said,

    Until you die. Whether you continue acting or do something else, you have to bear it.

    So he tried hard to bear it.

    When he first saw the project n for <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High>, he intended to pass it by.

    After all, Younghyun had already worn a school uniform in countless dramas.

    However.

    This project, Actor Han Yooil personally connected the director and the writer for the production!

    Wow! I thought that was just a rumor, but its true?

    Oh, you didnt know because you were on vacation. Its been all the buzz~

    Curiosity was piqued by the conversation of the staff nearby.

    So, he started reading the script.

    By the time he came to his senses, he had reached the end of part 2.

    <i>I have to do this.</i>

    And thats how he ended up participating.

    Part of him was also curious about Han Yooil.

    Right now, Han Yooil was sitting diagonally across from him, with kind eyes.

    Alright, let''s start from scene 7.

    At Yoo Jaeho''s words, Younghyun turned his gaze to the script.

    [S#7. Saetbyeol High Year 1 Western Art Practical Room, Daytime

    Lunchtime.

    Most students have left to eat, but Hojun is still sitting, refining his drawing.

    Among the colorful paintings of other students, his painting alone seems dark, as if covered by a ck and white filter.

    Then, Seunghyun approaches Hojun.]

    Min Hojun was a notably dark boy. Due to some reason, he had to take a year off from school, making him ater to the first year.

    Older by a year and introverted, no students approached Hojun first.

    Except for Seunghyun.

    And that Seunghyun was the role taken by Park Younghyun.

    With a bright smile, he began his line.

    Hyung, why do you only draw such gloomy pictures?

    At that line, Han Yooil looked up in surprise.

    Catching Yooil''s eyes, Younghyun was taken aback.

    <i>What?</i>

    Yooil, nowpletely immersed in the role of Min Hojun, barely recognized the polite greeting he had offered earlier. Instead, he embodied the lost boy who seemed to draw all the darkness around hima perfect portrayal of Saetbyeol High''s outsider, Min Hojun. Younghyun even thought he saw shadows forming under Yooil''s eyes, a trick of the light perhaps, but convincing nheless.

    Younghyun, caught off guard, stuttered,

    "Sorry, I didn''t mean it in a bad way"

    He tried to read Yooil''s reaction, continuing,

    "Your drawing is really good! Please don''t take it the wrong way, okay?"

    Ki Juhyun watched with a heightened sense of anticipation, switching her gaze between the two.

    <i>Wow</i>

    From the moment Yooil lifted his head, she had been seeing them as Hojun'' and Seunghyun,'' not as actors.

    Though wary of Hojun''s reaction, Seunghyun''s smile didn''t fade.

    "Just curious why do you draw like this?"

    Min Hojun stared at Seunghyun, his smile overly bright almost burdensome.

    Min Hojun''s entire being seemed to shout how overwhelming this situation was.

    With a stiff face, Hojun spoke,

    Is there a need for a reason?

    Well, you draw what you like, right!

    Hojun didn''t hide his difort, but Seunghyun didn''t easily give up, staying by Hojun''s side until friends came to take him away.

    Let''s talk again next time, hyung!

    Yoo Jaeho momentarily paused the reading,

    Alright, let''s stop here for now~

    Then, Yoo Jaeho and Ki Juhyun offered their feedback in turns.

    "The pacing and everything are good, but Seunghyun could be a bit more cheerful in this part."

    Right. If Hojun is the shadow, then Seunghyun should be the sunlight itself. It would be nice to bring out that innocence too. The dialogue tone could be more lively as well.

    Understood.

    Their attention then shifted to Han Yooil.

    "Hojun is good. Really good Maybe a bit more rigidity could work too?"

    Got it.

    The reading continued with feedback, focusing on scenes primarily involving Yooil and Younghyun''s dialogue. After a couple of scenes, it was time for Kim Suna''s character, the peculiar girl Choi Yein, to enter.

    Suna, are you ready?

    Yes.

    Kim Suna took a deep breath after replying and then opened her eyes. The face of Kim Suna, which had been expressionless until then, transformed instantly.

    <i>Wow.</i>

    Yooil inwardly marveled at the change.

    [S#10. Saetbyeol High School Yard, Daytime

    Hojun sits in a corner of the yard, sketching ants.

    Then, Yein approaches him. Her steps light as if dancing.

    Yein: Hi?]

    Choi Yein, sitting across the white table, speaks.

    Once again, Hojun looks up in surprise.

    This time, a flicker of curiosity crosses his eyes.

    But his curiosity fades quickly.

    "You''re always sitting here, arent you?"

    Her tone is charming and peculiar.

    Distracted by Yein''s fluttering presence, like a swing in the wind, Hojun can''t focus on his drawing. Eventually, he closes his sketchbook and looks up.

    "Do you know me?"

    Min Hojun. Freshman in Western Painting.

    Min Hojun narrows his eyes at Yein, unable to recognize the face before him.

    Yein gives a small smile.

    You dont know me?

    No.

    Im Yein. Choi Yein.

    In the next moment.

    Thud-

    Yein stands abruptly and leans towards Hojun.

    !

    Director Yoo Jaeho and writer Ki Juhyun, startled, quicklypose themselves, pretending to be unfazed.

    Yein brings her face close to Hojun''s, examining him intently.

    Hojuns body stiffens like a frightened puppy.

    He holds his breath, fearing that even his breath might reach Yein.

    Wow, your hair color really dark.

    She stares intently at Min Hojun.

    Really ck.

    Yein murmurs as she inspects each strand of Hojun''s hair.

    Min Hojuns heart starts to race.

    To him, Yein is the most beautiful girl he has seen in his life.

    Yet, he cant say for sure if the flutter in his heart is merely from excitement.

    She says in a cheerful tone, almost singing,

    Its the color that dead people like.

    Yein is a peculiar girl.

    As the scene ends, Ki Juhyun and Yoo Jaeho exchange nces.

    <i>Incredible.</i>

    <i>They nailed it.</i>

    <i>If the director does well</i>

    <i>Newblix will eat it up, right?</i>

    They start to chuckle silently, sharing an unspoken conversation.

    * * *

    Though they had met just after lunch, the day had quickly turned to evening.

    Everyone, thank you for your hard work! Please just consider the parts writer Ki and I mentioned during the reading.

    Yes!

    The reading session ends on an even more animated note than it began.

    The actors didnt engage in much personal conversation, but there was a subtle sense of stimtion from each other''s performance.

    Yoo Jaeho surveys the actors and suggests,

    Uh if youre hungry, how about we all have dinner together? There are some good ces around here. Or we can order in~

    Park Younghyun nods.

    Sounds good.

    Just as Han Yooil also nods in agreement, Kim Suna swiftly rises from her seat.

    I have to go.

    Ah, okay. Suna, thank you for your hard work. See you on the set~!

    Younghyun, who nodded unconsciously due to hunger, watches Suna quickly leave and wonders,

    <i>Is she leaving early for a diet?</i>

    He remembers he himself has been on a diet for the past few days.

    Skipping unnecessary meals is part of self-discipline.

    Director, Im sorry but I think Id better go today as well

    No, YoungHyun, where are you going. Stay with Yooil! Just wait! Ill treat you to something delicious.

    Okay.

    And so, Yooil and Younghyun end up ordering an extravagant amount of food.

    As the night deepens in the workshop, they listen to director Yoo Jaeho''s drunken life stories and writer Ki Juhyun''s tales of the Worst Directors she''s encountered.

    That night.

    In the car on his way home, Park Younghyun reflected on the day.

    <i>It was more enjoyable than I thought.</i>

    Though the trainers nagging about his diet echoed in his ears, he was d he didn''t use it as an excuse to leave early.

    Unexpectedly, Han Yooil, the rookie actor from the same agency, left asting impression on him.

    He knew that Yooil already had a rapport with Director Yoo Jaeho from a previous project, but he was also surprisingly close with writer Ki Juhyun.

    However, the most memorable part was the reading.

    <i>He was holding back, but still</i>

    There was something different about the way Han Yooil delivered his lines. The air around him seemed to change slightly.

    <i>I wonder what it will be like on set.</i>

    A sense of anticipation flickered across Younghyun''s face. A thought crossed his mind.

    <i>Maybe</i>

    This project might be the one to help him deal with his past.

    * * *

    Kim Suna walked into the WW Entertainment building and straight to the CEO''s office, a ce she could find with her eyes closed.

    As soon as she opened the door, the heavy musk of perfume stung her nose. It was strong enough to make anyone else frown, but Kim Sunas face remained expressionless.

    She''s finally here.

    The familiar nasal voice reached Suna''s ears.

    Red lips and thick makeup covering the skinyer uponyer.

    Kim Suna skillfully hid her disgust and bowed her head.

    Why arent you answering your phone? Do you think you dont need to answer calls anymore?

    Im sorry, Manager. I was in a reading.

    I know that. Is it that difficult to say youll step out to take a call?

    It wasnt the right atmosphere to

    The woman, referred to as the manager, snorted disdainfully.

    Oh, look at her, answering back.

    Then, a smooth and heavy voice intervened.

    Suna.

    At the sound, Suna''s body involuntarily tensed.

    How do you think the shooting will go?

    It seems like it will be fun.

    You know how curious the CEO was, you should give a more detailed report~

    Suna bit her lip.

    She genuinely looked forward to the filming.

    Having seen Han Yooils acting for the first time in <The Last Diner>, Suna was mildly shocked.

    The reading she attended with great expectations turned out to be satisfying.

    She wanted to focus solely on acting this time.

    Please.

    If anything is difficult, tell me.

    Please.

    If something happens, make sure to let me know. And you know, I would do anything for Suna.

    Suna forced a smile at the CEO, Lee Wooseok, who was grinning.

    No, I dont think there will be any need for that this time, Dad.

 Chapter 53:

    Chapter 53:

    Yooil filled his mouth with fluffy rice as Jin Hayoung, sitting across from him, smiled warmly.

    Yooil, if you want more, just say so~

    Yooil shook his head.

    Auntie, this is already my third bowl.

    Eat more! You''ve been too thintely.

    The steaming, savory doenjang jjigae (soybean paste stew) was also refilled.

    <i>Its been a long time since I had a meal with auntie.</i>

    Especially with his recent tight schedule, Yooil hadnt had a chance to eat with Jin Hayoung, so he eagerly devoured his meal.

    * * *

    <i>Ah.</i>

    Yooily exhausted in his bed, feeling the effects of overeating and an extended workout.

    He stared nkly at the ceiling. To his right floated a semi-transparent window.

    3rd Stage Goal Achievement Rate: 2.2%

    As the achievement rate became crucial, Brion had started disying the rate in a semi-transparent window.

    <i>It was 1.9% a week ago, I think.</i>

    The rate had risen slightly.

    A simple calction showed that an increase of 0.3% per day was needed to reach 100% in a year.

    Over the past week, with no schedules other than school, exercise, and practice, Yooil hadnt expected much increase in the rate.

    <i>But does the rate increase even with script practice outside the filming set?</i>

    Yes. The achievement rate can increase depending on the quality and quantity of acting.

    Brion had mentioned that the theme for the 3rd stage was Reinterpretation.

    If that means reinterpreting works or remakes of acting

    Just then, Yooils phone rang.

    Manager Min Woojin: Lets meet at thepany tomorrow!

    Tomorrow was the day Yooil was to review the scripts that had been offered to him.

    <i>Can I find it?</i>

    He closed his eyes slowly, mixing worry with anticipation.

    * * *

    Mr. Yooil.

    Already present in the office, Han Yooil stood up.

    I was going to ask if you had a good break

    Scanning Yooil from top to bottom, Jang Jaehyun tilted his head slightly.

    You seem to have lost more weight.

    Though he thought he had been eating well recently.

    Yooil looked down at his body, not noticing any significant change himself.

    Han Yooils current weight is 72.8kg. A reduction of 2.5kgpared to a month ago.

    <i></i>

    Are you managing your weight for a new role?

    Yooil fumbled his response. It seemed like the stress of potentially dying in 3 years was taking its toll, but

    It was a good excuse.

    Here are the project proposals currently being discussed for casting.

    Jang Jaehyun handed Yooil a selection of scripts he had personally chosen.

    Among the iing scripts, there are mostly romance, primarily for secondary male lead roles. There are some bigger-scale dramas and movies as well, but mostly significant supporting roles.

    Thank you.

    Yooil earnestly reviewed the proposals. As Jang Jaehyun had said, most were of the romance genre.

    Watching Yooil flip through the files, Jang Jaehyun added softly,

    I thought Mr. Yooil would be interested in good projects, even if they are not leading roles.

    Yooil couldnt help but smile at that.

    You''re quite right.

    As Yooil reviewed each project proposal, one caught his attention and he picked it up.

    !

    Seeing the project Yooil held, Jang Jaehyun looked at him with surprise.

    <i>I didnt expect him to choose that one.</i>

    The work of Kim Soobong, a director who passed away decades ago but still considered one of the greatest in Korea.

    Whenever you make that face, I feel like I am being bleached out.

    The ssic film, known for Ha Sunwooks iconic performance.

    It was a remake of <Jinhee>.

    That''s unexpected.

    Jang Jaehyun looked at Yooil with an amused expression.

    The protagonist of <Jinhee> is Jinhee herself. Its not an overstatement to say the film is 80% carried by the protagonist.

    The role Yooil could y was Kiwoon, the man who courts Jinhee. A character mainly appearing in the second act.

    <i>But its an attractive character.</i>

    Despite his limited screen time, Kiwoon'' is a character with significant influence. As the story progresses, he essentially bes Jinhees world. A character that demands attention in terms of direction and character development.

    <i>I knew he was smart.</i>

    But he also thinks ahead.

    Jang Jaehyun revised his opinion of Han Yooil once more.

    However, he was unaware.

    Yooil had clenched his jaw to hide his trembling when he found <Jinhee> among the proposals.

    <i>I found it.</i>

    <Jinhee> was a film Yooil had watched multiple times and one of his favorites.

    Moreover,

    <i>Reinterpretation.</i>

    Yooil needed to confirm if this remake met the theme of reinterpretation.''

    An excellent choice.

    Hearing Brion''s calm words, Yooil gripped the proposal tightly.

    I want to participate.

    * * *

    The productionpany that purchased the rights for <Jinhee> and nned the remake was O Film.

    Founded by Director Ogu, who had long since retired from directing and now only participated in production, he was still widely respected for his sharp vision.

    The director assigned to this movie was Won Heesu.

    She was one of the directors who spearheaded the melodrama boom from the early 2000s to the 2010s and had been serving as an adjunct professor at Myunghee University''s Film Department until recently.

    She took on the direction of <Jinhee> after persistent persuasion by O Film.

    I heard several actors are being considered for the role of Kiwoon.

    Jang Jaehyun said, lifting the corners of his mouth.

    He added with a confident smile,

    Ill arrange a meeting for you soon. Directly with Director Won Heesu.

    The meeting was scheduled for just a few dayster.

    Of course, Yooil couldnt dwell on that for long.

    Actor, please close your eyes for a moment~

    Yooil was on the set of <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High>.

    The filming location was simr to <Sing in High School>, but the building''s age gave it a more eerie atmosphere.

    Its been a shooting location since it was closed down two years ago.

    Eesh. That corner over there looks really scary at night. What if we see ghosts?

    If we do, its a jackpot! They say horror movie sets where ghosts are seen are bound to be hits.

    Yooil listened to the makeup team''s conversation while getting his makeup done.

    The character Min Hojun was uninterested in eating or sleeping.

    Naturally, the key points of Min Hojun''s appearance were his thin body and paleplexion.

    Hmm, thats it.

    Yooil opened his eyes.

    He blinked for a while, facing the unfamiliar face reflected in the mirror.

    Wow.

    How is it?

    After a brief contemtion, Yooil spoke.

    Like a starving vagabond who hasnt eaten for about three days.

    He was sincere.

    With his hair looking dry and his skin pale, and dark circles under his eyes, he looked like he could stand his ground against a ghost.

    The makeup team leader seemed pleased with Yooil''s remark.

    Right? Ah, it''s a sess!

    Really amazing.

    Ah,e on~ No big deal. Good luck with the shoot today~!

    While Yooil was ustomed to being dolled up for photoshoots and ads, making his skin look lifeless and crafting dark circles was a whole different level of makeup artistry.

    As Yooil entered the busy filming set, other actors were also emerging one by one, freshly made-up.

    Wow, theres Hojun!

    Director Yoo Jaehoughed heartily as he pointed at Han Yooil.

    At Director Yoo''s words, Park Younghyun inadvertently turned his head and directly faced Yooil''s gaunt appearance.

    Startled.

    Gosh, thats startling.

    Does it resemble Min Hojun well?

    Yes. Like a zombie.

    When Kim Suna, paler than usual, arrived on set, the director eximed loudly.

    Alright, let''s roll~

    [S#14. Saetbyeol High Corridor, Daytime]

    The script supervisor nodded after checking the storyboard.

    Camera rolling!

    Scene 14, take 1!

    Following the cinematographer''s shout and the pperboard of the assistant director, Director Yoo Jaehos resonant voice filled the set.

    Action!

    .

    .

    .

    While students are in ss, Min Hojun sneaks out.

    Hojun starts walking down the corridor.

    Suddenly, a breeze from beyond the window caresses him.

    The warmth of the wind is peculiar, making Hojun turn his head involuntarily.

    Then, he sees a figure swiftly passing by.

    Startled, Hojun shifts his gaze

    In front of him, a student in an unshortened school skirt wanders the corridor.

    Long hair fluttering in the wind.

    And the skirt twirling like a dance.

    Her fingers gracefully slice through the air,

    And her toes irregrly tap the ground.

    The girl hops and skips down the corridor.

    She is dancing.

    Hojun, watching the girl in a daze, finds himself thinking.

    <i>Beautiful.</i>

    If any other kids had danced in the corridor, it would have beenughable.

    But not this girl.

    The warm breeze.

    The girl''s dance seemed to embody the very wind that was brushing through Hojun''s hair.

    Min Hojun was reminded of a ballet performance he had seen with his parents long ago. Yet, the shock he felt now was even greater than what he had felt at that performance.

    Unexpectedly, Hojun spoke.

    May I draw you?

    At Hojun''s words, the girl, Yein, turns around. Her clear brown eyes, initially widened in surprise, gradually curve into a smile.

    Oh, its you.

    The same endearing and mysterious smile that she had shown when they first met reappears on her face.

    Go ahead.

    Yein approaches closer.

    With footsteps so quiet they dont make a sound.

    Hojun watches her, unable to even blink.

    Suddenly, Yein''s face is right before his eyes.

    Her pink lips part.

    But you have to keep a secret.

    What secret?

    Not to tell anyone who the model is.

    Hojun nods as if entranced.

    The mere thought of capturing this scene makes his heart start racing.

    I''ll keep it. A secret.

    .

    .

    .

    Cut!

    Director Yoo Jaeho calls out in an excited voice.

    Just as Director Yoo is about to happily shout okay,

    Director.

    The first to speak is Kim Suna.

    Sorry. Can we do it one more time?

    Huh?

    Director Yoo Jaeho looks at Kim Suna, puzzled.

    Why? Whats wrong?

    The dancing scene it feels too awkward.

    "?"

    <i>It seemed fine?</i>

    But if the actor feels its not right, theres no reason not to shoot it again.

    Alright. Lets go for it one more time.

    So they shoot the scene again.

    Yet, theres no significant difference from before.

    Kim Suna unconsciously starts biting her lower lip.

    <i>This isnt it.</i>

    Despite following the practice perfectly, she couldnt figure out why it didnt feel right.

    Its then that Yooil speaks.

    Excuse me, senior.

    Sunas head snaps up, seemingly surprised that Yooil is addressing her.

    Did you practice the dance barefoot by any chance?

    Sunas gaze lingers briefly on Yooils face.

    Yes.

    Somehow.

    Nodding, Yooil whispers softly,

    Then how about trying to dance barefoot here as well?

    At those words, Kim Sunas eyes widen.

 Chapter 54:

    Chapter 54:

    Kim Suna briefly looked down at her feet. Her shoes were sparkling under the light.

    ""

    It urred to her that the only change since practice was her outfit. The weighty shoes increased the friction with the floor. Quietly gazing at her shoes, Kim Suna straightened up her back and headed straight towards Director Yoo Jaeho.

    "Director."

    "Eh, yes? What is it, Suna?"

    "Would it be okay if I performed barefoot?"

    "Barefoot?"

    "Without shoes I think I might perform better."

    Yoo Jaeho looked at Suna with a slightly flustered expression. Barefoot was an element he had not considered. However, there was no reason to reject Kim Suna''s suggestion.

    "Ah, of course! If that''s what you prefer, Suna~!"

    Yoo Jaeho immediately turned his head.

    "Production team, can we get the floor cleaned up?"

    "Sure!"

    A few members of the production team quickly cleaned the floor with mops and wet wipes, and shooting resumed.

    "Okay, let''s roll the shoot!"

    "Action!"

    The hallway scene began again. Watching Suna start dancing barefoot, Han Yooil felt relieved.

    <i>Thankfully.''</i>

    It was distinctly different. Even though Yooil was not particrly knowledgeable about dance, he could tell that a performer'' like her suited the dance better without shoes.

    "Great!" Director Yoo Jaeho pped his hands and eximed. "Okay!"

    The assistant director quickly got up and began preparing for the next scene.

    "Let''s set up for the next scene~"

    "Let''s get the extras in ce!"

    During the short break given to the actors before the next scene, Kim Suna wiped her dirty feet and put her shoes back on. Even while putting her shoes on, she had a thoughtful expression on her face.

    How about trying to dance barefoot?

    <i>How did he know?''</i>

    Han Yooil. He was someone she had barely even had a proper conversation with before. Her suppressed curiosity was piqued. She had not talked much with other actors on set. There was no reason to, and it should have been that way. ncing around, Suna confirmed that her manager was not nearby. She turned her head slightly towards Han Yooil. She had intended to look secretly, but their eyes met.

    "Thanks for earlier."

    "No problem. The scene just now was really good, senior."

    "You did well too, Yooil."

    At that moment, Kim Suna stepped back from Yooil with a frozen expression on her face. Yooil saw it. He saw Kim Suna stiffen her face upon seeing a man who had just entered.

    I think I''ve seen him during the reading session.''

    A fairly aged, well-built man. He seemed to be Kim Suna''s manager.

    That''s correct. At this point, Kim Suna''s manager is a person who has been working as a secretary for over 8 years by the side of WW Entertainment''s CEO, Lee Seokwoo.

    <i>The CEO''s secretary?''</i>

    It was umon for a CEO''s secretary to take on the role of a manager. Brion continued to answer his question.

    CEO Lee Seokwoo is Kim Suna''s stepfather. He remarried Kim Suna''s mother 11 years ago and has been operating WW Entertainment ever since.

    This was news to him.

    Though it has never been publicized, most people in the entertainment industry are aware of this fact.

    Yooil had read about it in articles. He knew that Kim Suna''s mother had passed away a few years ago due to a chronic illness.

    <i>Has senior Kim Suna been with WW Entertainment since then?''</i>

    Yes. She has been with the samepany for 10 years.

    Yooil was unaware of this backstory. As he was sorting through his thoughts, Park Younghyun sat down beside Han Yooil. Since all the shooting scenes were piled up in the afternoon and he arrived early today, Younghyun had been waiting.

    "Are you tired of waiting, senior?"

    "No."

    Park Younghyun responded in a low voice. Yooil hesitated for a moment before speaking up.

    "Actually, I was surprised to hear that senior was taking on the role of Seunghyun''. I''m a fan of yours."

    At those words, Younghyun''s eyes hardened imperceptibly.

    <i>Damn.''</i>

    It was obvious without looking.

    It''s probably about "<Open, Magic Door>" again.

    Park Younghyun moved the corners of his mouth to create a polite smile. But then,

    "I really enjoyed <Our Night Never Ends>''."

    Younghyun looked at Yooil with surprised eyes.

    "That work didn''t perform very well."

    "I saw it in the cinema. At ate-night screening."

    It was the first time.

    Someone remembered him for something other than a Magic Door kid''.

    Younghyun opened and then closed his mouth. He didn''t want to make a fuss just because someone hadplimented a movie he was in.

    <i>Keep calm.''</i>

    He swallowed dryly and looked back at Yooil, who still had a clear gaze on him.

    Younghyun was not the type to initiate conversations if it wasn''t in front of the camera. He didn''t enjoy chatting and found it hard to be as affable as the other actors.

    However, seeing Han Yooil''s face he found himself speaking without realizing it.

    "I heard that Yooil directly connected the director and the writer."

    "Ah."

    So the rumor had spread that far.

    Yooil smiled awkwardly.

    "The script was already good. It was only a matter of time before it went into production."

    Younghyun quietly observed him.

    Kim Suna was also sitting beside them by now. Her gaze was constantly directed elsewhere, but it seemed like she was listening to their conversation.

    "Look, the actors there."

    "They seem to have be close."

    Their interaction was enough to cause misunderstandings among the people working on the set.

    The director of the making film diligently captured the three of them with his camera. The image of the three 20-something actors sitting side by side under the shade was picturesque in itself.

    <i>Nice. Such pleasant faces.''</i>

    It was regrettable that this wasn''t a romance.

    There will be many fans feeling disappointed.''

    "Alright, let''s start the shoot~"

    As the staff of the production team shouted, the set quieted down.

    Soon, Director Yoo Jaeho, intently watching the monitor, spoke.

    "Ready"

    "Action!"

    Saetbyeol High was a ce where all students lived in dormitories. The intent was for students to focus on artistic activities, but this closed environment didn''t seem to have a particrly positive effect on the artistic teenagers. Every year, 2-3 students transferred schools due to school violence, but the principal somehow covered it up and kept it quiet.

    <i>They must be making a tidy sum from the dormitory fees, I guess.''</i>

    Min Hojun thought cynically as he passed through the dark corridor and reached his room door.

    A strange voice was heard from the other side of the door.

    Again.

    Min Hojun''s face turned cold.

    Today, too, it seemed his roommate had let his friend into the room without asking.

    <i>!''</i>

    At that moment, Yoo Jaeho, who was watching the monitor, eyes shone.

    <i>Yes, that expression.''</i>

    When Hojun''s eyes turned cold, those watching should feel the tension of something is about to happen''. That''s why Han Yooil had been chosen for the lead role alongside writer Ki Juhyun.

    The protagonist of this drama had to be both an object of sympathy and, at the same time, an entity that was somewhat creepy and unsettling.

    It couldn''t be expressed with mediocre acting.

    <i>That''s it.''</i>

    Yoo Jaeho nodded in satisfaction.

    In the monitor, Min Hojun frowns and reaches out to open the door.

    At that moment,

    "Hey, when is your roommateing?"

    "Ah, that zombie?"

    Min Hojun unintentionally held his breath.

    "How do you even sleep seeing his face every day? I''d have nightmares if I had to share a room with that guy."

    "Ah, damn. That''s hrious."

    The snickering of the two boys could be heard.

    "Isn''t it creepy? He looks like a ghost."

    "Yeah, totally gloomy. Ah, damn! When can I change rooms?"

    Min Hojun turned away, his lips set in a firm line, his eyes darker than before.

    Director Yoo Jaeho clenched his fist lightly.

    "Cut!"

    <i>If we add suspense music here it would be perfect.''</i>

    Director Yoo beamed with contentment.

    "Okay!"

    As if they had been waiting, apuse erupted.

    "Great work, everyone~"

    "Well done, everyone~"

    "Rest up and see you at the next shoot!"

    Yooil kept his gaze fixed on the void even while drinking water.

    Progress towards the third goal: 3.1%

    <i>It''s increasing faster than when I practiced alone.''</i>

    He finished the water and wiped his mouth. Now, it was time to check properly.

    <i>* * *</i>

    Two dayster.

    Director Won Heesu, in charge of the production of <Jinhee>, was smoking in her office with the window wide open. It was possible because Oh Film''s owner, Director Oh Gu, also loved smoking.

    The ashtray in front of her was already piled high with cigarette butts.

    "Director, please blow the smoke the other way."

    "Ah, sorry."

    Won Heesu obediently began blowing smoke towards the window.

    "Ah Nowadays, it''s hard to find decent male actors in their twenties."

    Won Heesu, puffing on her cigarette, spoke to the assistant director.

    "Who''sing today?"

    "Actor Baek Junghyun and Han Yooil are scheduled toe."

    "Baek Junghyun got it. But Han Yooil?"

    The assistant director quickly disyed an image on the tablet and showed it to her.

    "Ah."

    Seeing the face, she understood. He acted with idols, right?

    Won Heesu tapped Yooil''s forehead in the photo with her finger.

    "He''s got a cute face."

    After her brief remark, Won Heesu returned her focus to the script in front of her.

    Soon, the door opened, and the first candidate entered.

    A face that couldn''t hide its inherent arrogance and confidence, even though it seemed slightly tense.

    Won Heesu clicked her tongue inwardly and smiled.

    "Ah, Baek Junghyun. Wee~"

    * * *

    Yooil was slightly taken aback by the smell of cigarettes as he entered the office.

    The interior of the office, to put it nicely, resembled an artist''s room from the ''80s, or frankly, looked like a roon''s den.

    <i>That must be Director Won Heesu.''</i>

    Correct.

    Won Heesu was known for her rxed shirts and her short hair with strands of white, a trademark look she had maintained for a long time, even during her long tenure as a university lecturer.

    Today, Director Won was wearing a white shirt and navy pants.

    "Hello, Director. My name is Han Yooil."

    Won Heesu stared intently at Han Yooil, who bowed politely.

    Her gaze seemed loose but was thoroughly scrutinizing.

    Feeling the subtle tension, Yooil braced himself.

    "Hmm, so you''re the new face that''s been gaining popritytely?"

    What''s with that awkward phrasing.

    As Yooil blinked in confusion, Won Heesu said,

    "Take a seat for now."

    As Yooil took his seat, he was immediately hit with a question.

    "So, why <Jinhee>?"

    The question came in an informal and rxed tone. Won Heesu tilted her head slightly as she observed Yooil. Baek Junghyun, who had just left this office, had received the same question.

    "I wanted to work with the director!"

    He had answered with a cheerfulugh.

    <i>It was cute.''</i>

    But that wasn''t enough.

    Won Heesu''s long-standing refusal to direct <Jinhee> wasn''t without reason.

    <i>At least, I can''t tarnish the reputation of Director Kim Soobong.''</i>

    She couldn''t find a reason to remake that work at this time.

    Yet, she harbored a dual desire.

    If this work were to be brought into the world, she wanted to be the one holding the megaphone.

    Casting had been a struggle.

    Just as Oh Film had been courting Won Heesu, she had persistently pursued Seo Hyunju. Seo Hyunju, a woman in her forties, was an actress as elegant in appearance as she was superb in her acting skills.

    But the choice of Seo Hyunju was for a greater reason.

    It was because she was smart.

    Smart enough to recognize and appreciate the mise-en-e and true value of Director Kim Soobong''s work.

    Won Heesu looked at Han Yooil, seated before her.

    Handsome, yes, but sitting there in in clothes, not acting, Yooil seemed somewhat nd at first nce.

    <i>What answer will this youngmb offer?''</i>

    Just then,

    "I wanted to be Kiwoon."

    Won Heesu''s eyebrows rose at that remark.

    "You wanted to be Kiwoon?"

    "Yes."

    "And the reason?"

    The assistant director noticed it. Curiosity was creeping into Won Heesu''s indifferent eyes.

    Yooil continued slowly,

    "Watching <Jinhee>, I thought Kiwoon was more than just Jinhee''s man."

    "Then what is he?"

    "Jinhee''s pure past and dream."

    And he added one more thing,

    "And at the same time, Jinhee''s wish ()."

    ""

    Won Heesu''s face showed amusement now.

    "Kiwoon. Yes. Director Kim Soobong is a man who doesn''t name his characters lightly."

    She stubbed out her cigarette and shifted her position, leaning towards Yooil.

    "So. How will you portray that? A person who is the past, the dream, and the wish?"

    Won Heesu''s gaze was fixed squarely on Yooil.

    Han Yooil felt like he could hear her words even though she hadn''t spoken them.

    Prove it. Show me why you should be Kiwoon.

    Receiving that gaze, Yooil closed his eyes.

    Won Heesu observed every minute change on Yooil''s face.

    His eyebrows slightly lowered his eyshes quivered finely.

    Then, he opened his eyes again.

    Eyes moistened, his gaze wandered aimlessly in the air.

    Then, his gaze settled on one point.

    Like a person who, after a long ordeal, has found light. His eyes conveyed ecstasy, joy, and also loneliness.

    "My existence vanished without a trace. From the moment I met you."

    <i>!''</i>

    Won Heesu found herself unwittingly opening her mouth wide in astonishment.

 Chapter 55:

    Chapter 55:

    <i>This line is''</i>

    It was what Kiwoon had said when Jinhee first revealed her heartfelt emotions.

    Won Heesu furrowed her brow as she gazed at Han Yooil.

    "From the moment I first held your hand, I forgot everything."

    Each word of Kiwoon resonated in her heart.

    He reaches out to the first woman he ever loved, and thest woman he will ever love.

    But as if he couldn''t quite reach her, his fingers slowly curl.

    It''s a love that''s almost painfully deep.

    Won Heesu found herself holding her breath without realizing it.

    The Kiwoon'' that Yooil depicted was pure, so pure that it was almost heart-wrenching.

    "So, please don''t cry."

    While he himself was shedding tears, he says that.

    "Jinhee."

    Han Yooil looked as if he wasn''t sure if he was even worthy of calling out that name, as if it belonged to an angel.

    Won Heesu slowly shook her head.

    <i>I shouldn''t have asked.''</i>

    It was meant to be a yful tease, testing the young actor.

    She hadn''t expected him to express'' it so well.

    Won Heesu scrutinized Yooil''s face with sharp eyes.

    It was the same face that had entered the room initially.

    But after seeing his performance, it felt as if she was facing a different person.

    However, Won Heesu was an experienced director and could maintain herposure even when taken aback.

    She leaned back in her chair and asked casually.

    "Did you practice?"

    "Yes."

    The answer came back simple and straightforward.

    Won Heesu chuckled softly.

    "How?"

    ""

    Yooil wiped away the tears he hadn''t managed to dry yet and looked directly at Won Heesu.

    It was a gaze with no hint of deceit.

    "At first, the role of Kiwoon was difficult. I didn''t want to approach it just as a young man confessing his love to a married woman''."

    "Then?"

    "So I practiced by acting as Jinhee'' first."

    Won Heesu''s mouth fell open slightly.

    He acted as Jinhee'' by himself?

    Because he couldn''t understand his own role, so he started by acting out the opposite role?

    <i>It''s possible. But''</i>

    This was the first time she''d seen someone actually pull it off.

    "So, how was your version of Jinhee?"

    "Jinhee was very lonely, and in pain. I thought that Kiwoon could be everything to Jinhee because of herck, and that made it easier to approach the role."

    Yooil continued.

    "It made me think that Kiwoon wasn''t just a person Jinhee loved'' but a person she wanted to love''."

    "!"

    Won Heesu was visibly taken aback by Yooil''s words.

    The former is about loving another person, while thetter prioritizes one''s own desires.

    "Interesting. So you think Jinhee'' didn''t really love Kiwoon?"

    "No, I believe she did. But the direction of her love was towards herself, like Jay Gatsby in The Great Gatsby''."

    Jinhee loved the image of herself being in love with Kiwoon.

    In that process, it was natural for Kiwoon to appear even more romantic and pure in Jinhee''s eyes.

    ""

    Won Heesu continued to throw a few more questions at Yooil. He responded smoothly, as if he had anticipated every conversation.

    "Did youe here prepared for an interview? You''re like a flowing stream, really."

    Shaking her head, Won Heesu suddenly nced at the clock.

    <i>It''s already thiste.''</i>

    Was it because the conversation was so engaging? She hadn''t realized how much time had passed.

    Won Heesu wet her lips with a look of regret.

    "Thanks foring today It was a pleasant conversation."

    "I enjoyed it too. Thank you, Director."

    Yooil, as cheerful as when he had first arrived, politely said his goodbyes and left the room. As soon as Yooil left, Won Heesu lit another cigarette.

    <i>The Chairman had good reason to be confident about him.''</i>

    The recent conversation made her smile involuntarily.

    "That guy''s cunning."

    Watching Won Heesu chuckling and blowing smoke, the assistant director thought quietly,

    <i>It''s decided.''</i>

    Their director seemed to have taken quite a liking to the actor they just met. The casting for the lead role seemed pretty much finalized.

    * * *

    3rd Goal Achievement Rate: 8.2%

    It had risen by about 5% just by performing in front of the director.

    Director Won Heesu received more impression than expected, which contributed to the achievement rate increase.

    <i>Really?''</i>

    She seemed just cool andposed.

    <i>Anyway, practicing Jinhee''s role was helpful.''</i>

    This was the approach Brion had suggested to Yooil, who had struggled with the emotional line of Kiwoon.''

    I will continue to provide you with various training methods, Mr. Yooil.

    Yooil moved on with a mixed expression on his face.

    As soon as he got into the car waiting in the parking lot, Min Woojin, who had been waiting, turned his head.

    "Yooil."

    His face was unusually worried.

    When Yooil looked at Woojin with a puzzled face, Woojin quietly handed him his phone.

    The phone screen was flooded with dozens of news articles.

    [Exclusive] Actor J, arrested for drunk driving, was Ji Hoyeol

    Ji Hoyeol I have nothing to say I''m sorry''

    Actor Ji Hoyeol caught drunk driving Will TN''s highly anticipated <The Smiling Magician> be canceled?

    <i>Oh no.''</i>

    <The Smiling Magician> was a fantasy drama starring Ji Hoyeol and Lee Jaeyoung, scheduled to air on TN next January, with a production budget of about 20 billion.

    Yooil knew about it too. It was a work that had been heavily promoted with trailers since half a year before its broadcast.

    Would you like to check themunity reactions?

    <i>I think I know, but still.''</i>

    Brion immediately disyed the window.

    As expected, themunity reactions were heated.

    Is this for real?

    Drunk drivers should all go to jail

    What a mess;;?

    Return our Jaeyoung

    I''ve been waiting for 2 years for this

    What a disaster

    Whether this was good or bad news for <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> remained to be seen.

    * * *

    Originally, <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> was scheduled to be uploaded to Newblix immediately after its broadcast on TN Channel.

    It was fortunate to be scheduled for the first half of June. Even if the script wasplete, there were many cases where the schedule was dyed for various reasons.

    However,

    "I''m sorry."

    The producer who had directly nned <The Smiling Magician> was bowing deeply in the director''s office.

    <i>Damn it.''</i>

    The director mmed his fist down loudly. He had already given a full vent, and there was nothing more to say.

    <The Smiling Magician> had been publicized for several years as this year''s most anticipated work.

    And now, the lead actor had been caught drunk driving.

    <i>Did this bastard just crap all over and leave?''</i>

    Being handsome and decent at acting, he had been pampered from all sides. That had been the problem.

    The director sent people away and called the nning team together.

    What should we do about the messed-up schedule

    Dont we have a few works currently in progress?

    But they all say it''s absolutely not possible. The post-production takes a long time

    It just so happened that all the projects in progress required borately crafted CG for every episode.

    Hamel Studio, responsible for the CG of most TN productions, had clearly stated that it was impossible to speed up the work due to their packed outsourcing schedule.

    Driving me crazy, seriously.

    Uhm, Director.

    Receiving the sharp gaze of the director, the employee continued slowly.

    How about that one Saetbyeol High?

    ?

    Right.

    When the n was reviewed, it did have some CG, but apart from thetter part, there wasnt much.

    It was said that the shooting for episodes 1 and 2 was alreadypleted.

    <i>Wait a minute.</i>

    Could this be released within three months if done right?

    The director, who was tapping a calctor in his head, soon reached a conclusion.

    To push forward the airing of <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> by a whole five months.

    I just contacted them, but how will we handle the post-production?

    Get everyone on it, whether its internal or external staff, and make it work somehow!

    Yes, understood!

    * * *

    Thats what happened.

    Yooil nodded slowly to Director Yoo Jaeho''s words.

    Kim Suna and Park Younghyun sitting next to him were also nodding.

    As expected.

    It was one of the predicted scenarios that Brion had mentioned, where <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> would rece <The Smiling Magician>.

    Huh It seems like the shooting schedule will be even tighter from now on.

    Yoo Jaeho stretched like a bear just woken from sleep.

    Oh, I swear Ill never do drama again.

    However, there was a subtle confidence on Yoo Jaeho''s face as he said this.

    A look of confidence, as if he was sure of himself despite the tight schedule and being swayed by external factors.

    It seems like TN is just using the drama as a stopgap measure

    But Yoo Jaeho had more confidence in this drama than any other project he had participated in before.

    That would hurt our pride too much, wouldnt it? Dont you think?

    Yooil smiled.

    Of course.

    Yooil was just as confident as Yoo Jaeho.

    Although they didnt say it out loud, it was clear from their eyes that Park Younghyun and Kim Suna felt the same.

    * * *

    Ah, I hate finals so much.

    Lee Hyejin murmured wearily.

    But thinking about Han Yooil, who was attending school and submitting assignments despite being busier than herself, she felt almost ashamed toin.

    An unexpected side effect when your idol is working too hard.

    <i>Lets take a short break.</i>

    A very short break should be fine.

    Lee Hyejin picked up her phone and quickly scrolled through themunity.

    Thats when she came across some unexpected news.

    -Saetbyeol High starts airing from January

    <i>What?!</i>

    Lee Hyejin read the details with wide eyes.

    [Someone knock me out and wake me up in January]

    Wow, seriously?

    But isnt it too soon? Arent they still shooting?

    Ji Hoyeol''s small ball that he threw..

    Ah

    Reverent

    It seems rushed, but I hope they take care of the quality

    Seriously

    <i>Wow.</i>

    Lee Hyejin had also heard that the drama Ji Hoyeol was supposed to star in was indefinitely postponed.

    She had no idea that <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> would take its ce.

    BlueChat was also abuzz. It seemed that while Lee Hyejin was drowning in her exam studies, new hot topics had emerged.

    [@dbdlf_tkfkd: Wow, the poster is already out (picture) (picture)]

    <i>Insane.</i>

    Lee Hyejin clicked on the photo as if enchanted.

    Three students in uniforms against the backdrop of a dark school.

    Standing at the back was Kim Suna. With her long hair draped down, she was staring straight into the camera with a lovely face.

    <i>But why does it look so eerie?</i>

    Was it because of the pale face? Or maybe because of the strangely shining eyes.

    Just looking at the poster, it felt like the characters were not going to be easygoing.

    In front of her stood Park Younghyun. He appeared with short sports hair, slightly dark and healthy skin, and his monolid eyes wide open.

    Park Younghyun seemed to be looking into the void with an anxious face.

    <i>Wow.</i>

    It was the first time. The first time Park Younghyun looked mature.

    <i>Has the child actor vibe finally worn off?</i>

    It was strange, considering she had seen this actor countless times, but only now did he seem to have grown.

    And the student standing at the very front.

    It was Han Yooil.

    With scruffy hair and an unhealthyplexion.

    He looked different from the Han Yooil she had seen before.

    <i>He looks like a hikikomori shut-in!</i>

    Of course, the face was still handsome.

    Lee Hyejin, who was pleasantly examining the poster, suddenly noticed something strange.

    <i>But why is there an X mark on the window?</i>

    A dark red X mark painted on every window, as if it was done with paint.

    It was a color that reminded her of blood.

    Upon closer inspection, white statues could be faintly seen inside the windows. The eyes of the statues also had ck X marks drawn on them.

    <i>What the!</i>

    Lee Hyejin felt her heart pounding.

    <i>This is going to be so exciting!</i>

    As a reference, Lee Hyejin had been a horror buff who devoured horror movies since elementary school.

    She wasn''t the only one excited by the poster.

    Variousmunities started theorizing about the content of <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> based on the poster.

    * * *

    The production team of <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> was also diligently searching social media reactions.

    Most of thements were either totally off the mark or talking about somethingpletely different. But asionally, when ament hit the nail on the head, yful messages would pop up in their group chat.

    Writer Ki Juhyun: (Screenshot of ament)

    Writer Ki Juhyun: Who is this? Confess quickly.

    Director Yoo Jaeho: That was too on point.. Did we make the poster too revealing..^^;;

    Senior Park Younghyun: Wow

    Senior Park Younghyun: (Shocked puppy emoticon)

    Senior Kim Suna: (Smiling default emoticon)

    And time flew by swiftly.

    Before they knew it, the new year had dawned.

 Chapter 56:

    Chapter 56:

    3rd stage goal achievement rate: 15.4%

    Yooil, ncing at the goal achievement rate of 15.4%, raised his head upon hearing his name called.

    "Yooil, are you okay?"

    "Of course."

    Yooil was walking to Bosingak with Jin Hayoung to hear the New Year''s Eve bell.

    It was past 11 PM. The area around Bosingak was already bustling with people.

    <i>We would have had trouble finding parking if we were anyter.''</i>

    Han Yooil and Jin Hayoung walked on, wrapped up in thick scarves.

    "By the way, youve worked hard this year too, our Yooil. Must have been tough managing both work and school, right?"

    "No, it was okay."

    It was manageable.

    More than he had expected.

    It seemed like he might not get the national schrship next semester but the recentmercial signing fee should be enough to cover the tuition fees for Wolmyeong University.

    <i>Im relieved I can graduate without borrowing money from my aunt.''</i>

    Even before he stepped into acting, he had heard that advertisements, not acting, were the main source of ie for actors. Yooil realized anew that it was true.

    It was thanks to the settlement money he received a few days ago. Han Yooil was surprised when he checked his bank ount.

    The contracts with GINBERG and Vitatalk Seven were both for one year. Even after taxes, the amount was well over a hundred million won.

    It was the first time such arge amount of money had been deposited into his ount, so it didnt feel real.

    "Ive been thinking, Aunt that"

    "Yooil. Ive told you several times, but I like my house and car as they are now. I can live well enough without your ie. You know that, right?"

    Preemptively shut down again.

    Yooil gave up on persuading Jin Hayoung and closed his mouth.

    "Look, Yooil! It seems theyve already started on stage."

    Yooil, hearing Jin Hayoung''s excited voice, checked his hat and mask again.

    He felt a bit embarrassed, as if he was making a fuss alone, but following Brions advice made him feel more at ease.

    "But Aunt."

    "Hmm?"

    "When did you start wanting toe here? Weve always spent the New Year at home I didnt know you were interested in such ces."

    Yooil had never been to a festival withrge gatherings of people.

    Whether it was fireworks, cherry blossom viewing, or any festival, it was always the same.

    "I thought we shoulde at least once. When you were young, I didnt want to disturb a student''s studies

    Jin Hayoung hesitated for a moment before speaking up.

    "You said that once. That you wanted to go see it with your mom and dad."

    He couldn''t remember.

    Jin Hayoung continued with a smile.

    "You don''t remember, do you?"

    "Not at all."

    "Well you were young then."

    Yooil walked slowly, following the crowd.

    The voices of people looking forward to the New Year and the voices of singers performing on stage echoed. Jin Hayoung and Yooil stepped aside to avoid the iing crowd.

    That''s when it happened.

    Someone stepped in front of Yooil.

    "Huh?"

    A thin voice flowed out.

    Yooil reflexively turned his head. A short-haired girl with sparkling eyes was visible.

    Her appearance seemed at most a high school student.

    Yooil, worried he might have stepped on her, looked down.

    But then.

    "Are you Yooil?"

    "!"

    Yooil froze on the spot.

    <i>How did she recognize me?''</i>

    He was wearing a hat and a mask.

    It was unclear how she had recognized him.

    "Omg!"

    In the meantime, the short-haired girl sped her hands over her mouth.

    "Amazing!"

    Yooil quickly scanned the surroundings.

    It wouldn''t matter if this ce were a school or somewhere else. But this was a ce crowded with numerous people. There was a risk of an ident happening.

    There dont seem to be any people within a 100m radius keeping an eye on you.

    That was somewhat of a relief.

    Yooil whispered, keeping his head down.

    "I''m sorry, but I''m here personally with my family today Could you pretend you don''t know me just for today?"

    The short-haired girl''s eyes sparkled as she nodded her head.

    "Sure! I will!"

    "Hey! Yum~ where are you?"

    Yum,'' the student who was called, moved her steps to not fall behind her friends. Even while walking away, she kept looking back at Yooil, seemingly concerned about him.

    Seeing this, Yooil couldn''t help but smile softly.

    "Happy New Year."

    As Yooil mouthed these words softly, the short-haired girl jumped in excitement and covered her mouth.

    <i>?''</i>

    Confused about her reaction, Yooil tilted his head.

    "Yooil, who was that?"

    Jin Hayoung, who had been engrossed in the stage, finally turned her head to Yooil.

    "Do you know her?"

    "Not exactly just someone who recognized me, I think."

    "Oh my."

    Jin Hayoung looked at the student walking away with a surprised expression. She knew Yooil had be famous, but she hadn''t felt it much. Moreover, Yooil was currently hiding his face with a hat and a mask. Jin Hayoung looked at Yooil with a newfound expression.

    At that moment, a murmur spread among the crowd.

    "Look! Theyre about to ring the bell~"

    "Wow~"

    Yooil held Jin Hayoung''s shoulder firmly to prevent them from being swept away by the crowd.

    "9, 8, 7"

    The crowd shouted the countdown in unison.

    "5, 4, 3, 2, 1!"

    Finally, the bell rang.

    Thirty-three bell sounds spread far and wide.

    "Happy New Year, Yooil~"

    "You too, Aunt."

    Yooil strengthened his grip on Jin Hayoung''s shoulder.

    My friend saw Han Yooil at the New Years Eve bell ringing on January 1st

    [Just so you know, I was with her, but I didn''t see him, damn.

    My friend suddenly disappeared for a bit, but I didn''t really pay attention But on our way home, she said she saw Han Yooil, shit.

    She said he asked her to pretend not to know him because he was with his family

    Even though he was wearing a hat and mask, she said he was still obviously a celebrity

    She said he was very gentle and kind

    He wished her a Happy New Year..]

    Is that true?

    Fabrication

    Yeah, I had dinner with Hwang Yiwon yesterday~

    "This is something else."

    HM, browsing themunity, chuckled.

    While HM was reading thements, another newment was posted.

    Wait a minute, guys

    (Link)

    HM, who usually blocks trolls immediately, unwittingly clicked on the link.

    It led to Han Yooil''s Shasta.

    [@1_and_only

    (Picture) (Picture)

    Wishing everyone a Happy New Year!

    #NewYearsEveBell]

    The first picture he posted was of the crowd and Bosingak in the distance.

    The second was a selfie of Han Yooil wearing a navy hat and mask.

    Only his smiling eyes were visible in the photo, but it was unmistakably Han Yooil.

    <i>Crazy.''</i>

    HM quickly captured the Han Yooil sighting story and started sharing it on BlueChat.

    BlueChat''s Han Yooil fans began to light up again.

    [@HM_0110 Someone met Han Yooil on January 1st (Capture Photo)]

    [@alskazhffprxj Wow]

    [@djWjfkrhdy

    Guys, have you seen the story about Han Yooil going to see the New Years Eve bell? (Capture Photo)]

    [@dbdlf_tkfkd Is this real?]

    [@yuulll_33 He whispered Happy New Year damn crying right now]

    [@jinnnny Ah crazy]

    It was just three days before the first broadcast of Saetbyeol High.

    * * *

    The filming of <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> continued into early January. As it was the first gathering of the year, the set was filled with warm New Year''s greetings.

    "Happy New Year~"

    "Same to you, Director!"

    "May everyone have a fulfilling year!"

    Today''s filming involved many supporting actors, giving the main cast more downtime than usual. The youngest staff member of the production team, usually bustling about distributing walkie-talkies, serving meals, and managing extras, longed to observe the main actors'' performances. This type of multitasking was moremon in film sets, but in dramas, such boundaries were often blurred.

    The junior staff member couldn''t help but think amidst the fatigue:

    <i>I really wanted to see the main actors perform.''</i>

    Another staff member, a senior from school now working together in the production team, caught up with him.

    "Hey, where are you going?"

    "Huh?"

    "Today''s the premiere, right? Everyone''s gathering to watch it together. Arent you joining?"

    "What?! Really?"

    He was aware that the tight filming schedule ovepped with the first broadcast but

    watching the first broadcast together?

    "Can I join?"

    "Of course!" The response came from an unexpected source.

    "Whoa Actor Han!"

    It was Han Yooil, speaking with a warm smile.

    "Over in ssroom 1-5, we''re all watching together. The PD has prepared lots of snacks, you know?"

    Before he knew it, the junior staff member found himself in ssroom 1-5, sitting atop an apple box (a multi-purpose wooden box used on sets as a chair, support, or stepping tform).

    Looking around bewilderedly, the scene reminded him of watching movies with ssmates during the school holidays.

    "It''s starting!"

    "Oh, amazing~"

    It was the premiere of <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High>. Directors rarely produce openings themselves; usually, dedicated artists handle that. However, Director Yoo Jaeho had personally contributed to this opening, which featured his specialty: animation.

    The opening started with a dissonant orchestra, the slowly crumbling harmony creating an unsettling atmosphere. When the percussion joined in, the animation truly began. Statues painted like oil paintings, shadowy figures marking them with Xs. Characters resembling Min Hojun, Seunghyun, and Suna joined the scene, breaking statues, following each other, and carrying white flowers. Then shadows fell over their faces, and they looked up to see the school turned prison encasing them. As Min Hojun''s eyes glinted red and he raised his hand, the opening concluded with a high violin solo.

    "What''s with the opening?"

    "The sound is so good!"

    "The quality is insane"

    Director Yoo Jaeho chuckled, proudly noting that he had ground up all the junior colleagues he knew'' for this production. But as the title appeared, everyone fell silent, eyes glued to the screen.

    * * *

    Min Hojun.

    Always quiet, inscrutable.

    That guy, he''s an orphan.

    Heard he was in a car ident with his mom but survived alone?

    Creepy, really.

    Min Hojun pretended not to hear the sharp remarks about him.

    Instead, he painted. His works resembled ck and white photographs.

    As a three-year schrship student at Saetbyeol High, his artistic talent was undeniable.

    Hojun''s technique is really something. Greatposition but

    Still so dark.

    His teacher mentally swallowed these words. Hojun was the kind of student you didn''t want to provoke without reason.

    Then came Seunghyun and Yein, reaching out to the outsider Hojun. The first encounter between Choi Yein and Min Hojun left everyone speechless.

    "Wow"

    "It''s like a painting."

    "They really suit each other, dont they?"

    "Shh! You can''t hear the dialogue!"

    After meeting Yein, Hojun seems to brighten up a bit. Especially when painting her, he''s more focused than ever. Forehead and nose glistening with sweat droplets, arms moving passionately.

    <i>Most of that sweat was real.''</i>

    While some was makeup, most of it was real sweat, the result of Yooil immersing himself in the painting during breaks.

    Director Yoo Jaeho attentively watched every scene of the drama.

    And then came the climax of the first episode.

    A student suddenly goes missing.

    The missing student is none other than Hojun''s roommate.

    A student vanishing without a trace within the school.

    Naturally, the school is thrown into chaos.

    Please find my child our child!

    How can a student just disappear from school?!

    The agitated voice of the missing student''s parents resonates, and the scene quickly shifts to Yein.

    Yein delicately picking flowers in the small hill within the school, a beautiful and peaceful shot amidst the school''s turmoil.

    Yein brings a white wildflower close to her face and smiles cutely.

    It bloomed beautifully.

    The junior staff member felt chills running down his arms.

    <i>Ugh creepy.''</i>

    The scene felt even more unsettling right after seeing the weeping parents of the missing student.

    Hojun, because he''s the roommate, is questioned by the police but isn''t considered a suspect as the CCTV footage shows him painting in his studio all night on the day the student went missing.

    What''s going on here?

    Could it be a simple runaway case?

    They said he vanished leaving his phone behind.

    What''s happening

    The school is in turmoil.

    The administration tightens the restrictions on students'' free time.

    All students must return to the dormitory by 9 PM.

    As the search for the missing student drags on, the air around Min Hojun grows colder.

    Did he do something?

    Ugh, damn. It''s so creepy.

    Only Seunghyun talks to Hojun.

    Are you okay, bro?

    Just leave me alone.

    Don''t mind what the others are saying. They''re just scared and talking nonsense.

    Hearing this, Min Hojun clenches his teeth.

    He despises Seunghyun. He can''t stand how he makes him expect kindness and warmth from people.

    Min Hojun res at Seunghyun with burning eyes.

    I hate you more.

    What?

    Stop pretending to be nice and using me.

    Hojun, unable to trust anyone, pushes Seunghyun away.

    And then the final scene of the first episode.

    Min Hojun sneaks out of the dormitoryte at night with a small shlight, eager to finish his painting.

    However, as he quietly enters the studio, he identally drops the shlight.

    Hojun''s painting, which was fine during the day, has changed.

    The camera closely captures Hojun''s trembling face, breathing heavily.

    Slowly panning from his face to the canvas.

    Apanied by a grim piano piece, Hojun''s painting is revealed.

    Yein dancing gracefully yet forlornly, and above her eyes a red X is drawn.

    As the episode ends, the camera lingers on Min Hojun''s shocked face staring at the two small X marks.

    "Ah, incredible."

    "Even though it''s our drama, it''s really interesting."

    Director Yoo Jaeho, enjoying the lingering emotions, turned his head at the sound of his name.

    "Director!"

    The voice of the stunned assistant director caused Director Yoo''s face to harden.

 Chapter 57:

    Chapter 57:

    Why, why!

    Sir, look at this

    Director Yoo Jaeho stared at the assistant director with a fearful face, his heart pounding from the intense music just moments ago.

    Look at this!

    As the assistant director spoke with a dazed expression, Director Yoo Jaeho eximed with a trembling voice.

    What! Is there a ghost behind me?! A maiden ghost?! A child ghost?! What is it! Speak up! Don''t keep me in suspense!

    What?! No, sir, its about our viewership ratings!

    It was then that he came back to his senses. The tablet in the assistant director''s hand caught his eye.

    !

    5.6%!

    In the era of major OTT tforms, where people are more likely to binge-watch rather than tune in live, it was rare for a drama on a cable channel to exceed a 5% rating on its first episode. Considering thepetition from other dramas airing at the same time, it was an impressive figure.

    Its currently the top trending search on Newblix!

    Three seconds of silence.

    Then,

    Woooooah!

    Fantastic!

    Wow! We killed it!

    Cheers erupted all around.

    Our team rocks!

    Congrattions to all the actors!

    The usually quiet Park Younghyun and Kim Suna were visibly rxed and happy.

    Amidst the outpouring of congrattions and joy, ament from the script supervisor caught Director Yoo Jaehos attention.

    By the way, Director how can you be so scared while directing a horror drama?

    The cinematographer and lighting director nced at each other and then cheekily chimed in.

    A maiden ghost?! A child ghost?!

    Speak up! Don''t keep me in suspense!

    They seemed like the perfectic duo, waiting just for this moment. Director Yoo Jaeho, caught off guard, mped his mouth shut as if he had swallowed a rotten egg.

    Laughter filled the room, allowing even Yooil to rx and enjoy the moment.

    Goal Achievement Rate: 17.8%

    The increase in the goal achievement rate also contributed to the lighter mood.

    After all themotion, the production team of <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> could finally call it a day.

    It was a night filled with good vibes.

    * * *

    As the viewership ratings proved, summary videos of <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> on O-Tube quickly garnered hundreds of thousands of views, indicating the drama''s poprity. Naturally, it also became a frequent topic of discussion in onlinemunities.

    (Casual) Did anyone watch The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High'' the other day?^^

    [I usually watch another drama, but my son (he''s a middle schooler going through puberty, haha) kept begging me to watch this one. So I thought, let''s give it a try, and wow~ it was so interesting! I thought it would be childish since high schoolers are the main characters, but it was far from it. I was totally engrossed, and by the final scene, I was shivering with fear haha; It reminded me of the horror movies I used to watch as a kid~ It looks like our family will continue to watch it live haha]

    Totally agree! Didn''t expect much, but it was so much fun haha

    There were quite a few familiar faces among the actors~ The lead seems like a neer but was really good at acting

    That''s actor Han Yooil^^ Very tall and handsome~

    I can''t handle scary stuff so I skipped it~ Is it really that good? Everyone at work is talking about this drama~

    I also get scared easily haha. I was startled a few times but it was worth watching~

    I was watching it alone and got so scared I had to hug my kid to sleep haha. If you really can''t handle scary stuff, be careful. haha

    (Drama) Is The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High'' any good?

    [Just now]

    The drama <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> continued to create waves among viewers of all ages, rapidly bing a hot topic among drama enthusiasts.

    Has anyone watched Saetbyeol High?

    [I haven''t been this thrilled by a drama in ages I''m freaking out]

    Regret watching it so fast How am I supposed to wait a week

    Really, its so good,,

    Watched it shivering with my kids A horror in the dead of winter, TN is insane

    LOL, gotta watch it again in the summer~

    Min Hojun is truly an outsider hikikomori material, but Han Yooil suits him so well,,

    True, he kinda feels like a protagonist from a Japanese manga Anyway, the casting is on point

    3333.. Thought he was perfect with Seon Gihyeon in Sing in High School, but it turns out hes just universally adaptable to any role

    On BlueChat, various memes featuring Han Yooil in the drama were being shared and loved.

    [@djWjfkrhdy

    Me during exam period & Me during vacations

    (Picture) (Picture)]

    For a while, memes juxtaposing screenshots from <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> and <Sing in High School> with witty captions became a trend.

    <i>Is this supposed to be funny?''</i>

    Yooil scratched his head as he looked through the memes his peers had sent him.

    Seeing his own face didnt evoke much emotion, just a sense of wonder.

    <i>Thousands of people are rting to this.''</i>

    At least everyone seems to like it.

    * * *

    On the day of the third episode of <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High>, an office worker flung their outerwear aside and copsed onto the sofa.

    They''d been so busytely that they''d been copsing as soon as they got home on weekdays, and the weekends were spent catching up on sleep.

    <i>Can''t believe I havent been able to watch a drama with Han Yooil because of real life!''</i>

    It seemed unthinkable.

    But finally, today, after months of hard work, their project hade to an end. That was why they hade into work even on a Saturday.

    Youve worked really hard!

    But what came to the office workers mind wasn''t the sweet incentive or the liberation of going home.

    <i>I can finally watch it!''</i>

    With surging adrenaline, they clicked on <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> on Newblix and started to get absorbed in the drama.

    "Insane"

    The office worker muttered nkly as they watched the eerie music box tune y alongside the credits.

    They had realized only after the second episode ended. It was a whirlwind 100 minutes.

    <i>Lucky todays the airing day.''</i>

    The sweetness of being able to watch the third episode right away felt like a dream. The office worker kept ncing at the clock, their eyes gleaming.

    After the wait, the third episode began.

    * * *

    The third episode started with Hojun gently touching the wildflower given by Yein.

    The police returned to Saetbyeol High once more. They meticulously searched inside the school and re-interrogated the students, especially those from the same ss as the missing student. Every student was questioned again about their whereabouts on the day of the disappearance.

    After the investigation of thest student, Hojun, concluded

    As the police were about to leave empty-handed, Yein''s bold voice echoed through the hallway.

    "Why aren''t you asking me?"

    It was then that people noticed Yein. The atmosphere felt bizarre, as if a doll or a mannequin had spoken.

    Amidst this strange ambiance, a police officer frowned and spoke.

    "Whats your name?"

    "Choi Yein. I''m in the second year, ss 1, right next to this ssroom."

    Only then did Hojun realize that Yein was in the ssroom next to his.

    Yein''s round eyes slightly drooped at the ends as she continued with a sorrowful tone.

    "The missing child, they wonte back."

    "What are you talking about"

    "I can see ghosts."

    "What?"

    The police officers looked at each other, bewildered.

    The students reacted the same.

    "That child, they are standing right there."

    Yein pointed to a corner, causing a flustered teacher to step in front of her.

    "Yein? Don''t joke around this is not the time."

    Yein then spoke with a smile.

    "You know, dont you, teacher? About the things that have happened in our school."

    Her smile was too pure and lovely.

    The teacher stepped back a few paces, clearly disturbed.

    Of course, the police didn''t believe Yein. The only ones trembling in fear were the students in the dormitory.

    A few hourster, Hojun encountered Yein in the yground. Despite being the one who dropped the bombshell, she was casually ying with shadow puppets.

    "Can you really see dead people?"

    "Yeah. Specifically, people who died in this school''."

    Yein stared intently at Hojun, resting her chin on her hand.

    "You dont believe me either?"

    Yein smiled, her usual smile. But Hojun felt an odd difort.

    Dark clouds gathering in the sky came into his view.

    In the next scene, Hojun discovered flowers like the ones Yein gave him in a jar in each ssroom.

    "Who put these flowers in this jar?"

    The flowers, ced inconspicuously in a corner, drew Seunghyun''s attention. The students shrugged, indicating they didnt know. Seunghyun looked at the flowers. They were white and pretty, but

    "Something''s off."

    As he said this, thunder rumbled.

    Seunghyun''s face, looking out through the rain-soaked window, appeared dark and gloomy.

    And the final scene.

    The first-year dorm supervisor, checking the dormitory before leaving, noticed red paint smeared at the end of the first-floor corridor.

    It looked like someone dragged a giant brush.

    "Whos ying with paint like this!"

    But the trail of red paint led down the stairs to the basement.

    The supervisor grumbled and followed the paint trail.

    Thump- Thump-

    The sound reminiscent of a beating heart and the escting strings heightened the viewers'' unease.

    The tilted camera angle and the corridor growing darker with each step added to the tension.

    Just wait till I catch them. That''s a 10-point penalty right there.

    The supervisor continued to walk, annoyance evident in his steps.

    Then, suddenly, his pace slowed.

    "But, was the oil painting always this detailed?"

    A sudden feeling of foreignness.

    The unfamiliar sensation quickly morphed into fear.

    It can''t be.

    It''s impossible.

    The supervisor''s steps quickened as cold sweat broke out and his breath became ragged.

    The trail of red paint led to an old, wooden-doored basement storage room.

    Creak

    As the door opened, the supervisor''s face contorted in horror.

    Then, a piercing scream reverberated through the school.

    And

    In the school''s basement, previously unknown to exist, the missing child was found dead, their eyes rigid and marked with an X.

    * * *

    The office worker, clutching a giant abandoned toy, shivered uncontrobly.

    <i>Its its terrifying!''</i>

    Every face in the drama seemed suspicious, even Hojun''s!

    Even the cute appearances of some students throughout the episodes made the viewer second-guess.

    <i>Really scary but really good.''</i>

    Even for someone who wasn''t a fan of horror, the sentiment was strong.

    <i>No more episodes tonight!''</i>

    The office workermented with an exasperated sigh as they patted the toy.

    * * *

    On the set of <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High>.

    Most of the shooting wasplete, with only two episodes left to film.

    Despite the earlier-than-usual call time, the actors were visibly tired, but their eyes sparkled with energy.

    <i>Huh?</i>

    Yooil was puzzled by an unfamiliar face on set. Noticing the actors attention, Director Yoo Jaeho introduced him.

    This is Professor Kim Juho, a part-time professor of Counseling Psychology at Seongmun University and a practicing psychologist.

    !

    Director Yoo Jaeho continued,

    We''ll be filming emotionally intense scenes today and tomorrow, and it might take a while To ensure the mental well-being of our actors, we''ve decided to have a psychologist on standby.

    Yooil was quite surprised. He had heard of psychologists being hired on Hollywood sets, but he hadnt expected to experience it himself.

    In Korea, its bing moremon to have psychologists on sets, especially for child actors in roles that involve extreme emotions or brutality.

    Its going to be a tough shoot as youll need to pour out a lot of emotions. I apologize in advance.

    In other words, it was a gentle warning that it would be challenging.

    Park Younghyun swallowed nervously and nced at Yooil.

    Yooils expression seemed slightly tense.

    <i>Is henervous?</i>

    Usually, Yooils emotional range wasn''t wide until just before a shot.

    Always so calm, he was thought to have nerves of steel.

    <i>But he does get nervous, too.</i>

    Younghyun felt a human side to Yooil he hadn''t noticed before. The staff member beside him also noticed Yooil''s expression and asked worriedly,

    Are you okay?

    Im fine.

    Yooil replied calmly.

    His heart began to race.

    But not from worry, from excitement.

 Chapter 58:

    Chapter 58:

    As the 6th episode of "The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High" unfolds, Seunghyun''s character, previously bright and cheerful, undergoes a sudden change. Once always seenughing and chatting with friends, Seunghyun starts to walk alone with a somber expression. What''s more unsettling is that no one, except for Hojun, finds Seunghyun''s transformation odd. Approaching a trembling Seunghyun, Hojun is met with averted eyes and a murmured confession:

    "I I found a notebook. Under the dormitory bed"

    "What?"

    "I left the notebook there but, I''m scared, hyung."

    The day Seunghyun left these words to Hojun was thest anyone saw of him; he vanished without a trace. In episode 7, Hojun discovers the notebook Seunghyun mentioned and is struck with horror. It''s a notebook written over 20 years ago, containing a list that serves as a kind of warning. Although it''s just a brief insert in the drama, it''s disyed long enough for viewers to capture. The owner of the notebook was a missing person from 20 years ago, and Hojun learns of simr disappearances from 20 years and 10 years prior.

    With the notebook in hand, Hojun seeks out Yein, who sits nonchntly on the school rooftop, gazing at the scenery as leisurely as a cat sunbathing. It''s a scene that would have seemed peaceful in the past, but Hojun now knows the truth about Yein.

    "It was you, wasn''t it? The events 20 years ago, and 10 years ago"

    Yein, shing a fresh smile, responds, "Oh? How did you know?" before casually snatching the ck notebook from Hojun''s hand. After skimming through it with a hum, Yein loses interest and tosses it aside.

    "Boring. Let''s talk about something else."

    As the final scenes of the drama approach

    "Director after much consideration, you really did call for it."

    The assistant director escorts a psychologist to the waiting room, privately deeming the director''s decision to bring in a counselor a bit excessive.

    "Hey, what are you thinking about?"

    "Oh, Director. Actually"

    The assistant director confides in a trusted lighting director. Despite understanding the importance of the scene, they question the necessity of a psychologist.

    "So, you''re wondering if it''s really necessary."

    The lighting director, after checking the surroundings, whispers, "You know the nature of the content"

    "Why is it?"

    "Parts of it could be sensitive for the actors."

    Ah.

    Only then does the assistant director recall the family histories of the two lead actors.

    "I see. So that''s why"

    Realizing the reason, the assistant director resumes their duties silently.

    "Let''s start shooting soon~"

    "Please stand by~!"

    Voices from the production team echo from the set beyond the waiting room.

    "Everyone, let''s not miss our cues!"

    "Actors, please be extra careful to avoid injuries~"

    The scene is set on the school rooftop, surrounded by chroma key screens for the drama''s only scene requiringrge-scale CG  the very scene to be shot today. Yooil adjusts the rig attached to their body, a harness around their waist and groin  a first-time experience, not having used wires even during "The Mysterious Garden." Yooil turns to see Kim Suna, who''s expertly preparing herself.

    "Actors, as soon as you''re ready, we''ll start shooting!"

    And with that, filming begins.

    * * *

    "Do you think I don''t know you, Hojun?"

    Choi Yein grabs Min Hojun by the cor, pulling him close.

    "Wow."

    The youngest staff member of the production team watches Yooil and Suna with wide eyes, astonished. As Yein pulls, Hojun moves as if dragged by an immense force.

    "It looks so real."

    The power Kim Suna exerts seems magnified many times over, her performance enhancing the detailveins standing out on her hand, fingers trembling subtly.

    Above all, it was natural.

    So much so that one could forget Yooil had practiced countless times just for this scene.

    Yein pushes Hojun to the edge of the rooftop. Standing precariously, Hojun meets Yein''s gaze. The camera captures this moment from a high angle.

    Choi Yein leans in close, her face reflected in Hojun''s eyes.

    Yein looks at him as if he''s a most amusing toy.

    "I know everything about you."

    "What nonsense are you"

    Suddenly, Yein''s voice changes.

    "Hojun there''s something I need to tell you."

    A voice filled with worry flows from Yein''s mouth.

    For a moment, the face of a young girl seems to morph into that of a middle-aged woman.

    "!"

    Director Yoo Jaeho stares at Kim Suna, surprised. The n was to dub the voice separately. He had told himself not to worry prematurely.

    "Good."

    Yoo Jaeho watches the screen intently, lips pursed. The lead actors'' performance was wless.

    "Actually, mom has been seeing someone recently."

    A voice filled with worry and warmth.

    But the chill isn''t due to the change in voice.

    "How could you know that"

    Min Hojun''s face is flooded with shock.

    "Mom''s sorry she didn''t tell you sooner. She didn''t know how to bring it up and kept putting it off and it ended up like this."

    No.

    That can''t be right.

    "Mom will exin okay?"

    This is a lie.

    "Mom''s sorry"

    His mother had died a year ago.

    "Yes, Hojun."

    Then, Yein continues with a sly smile.

    "If you had just listened obediently back then, your mother could have easily avoided the truck in front of her."

    Gulp.

    Yoo Jaeho leans closer to the monitor.

    All the emotions on Hojun''s face are draining away as if sucked out by a syringe.

    Hojun''s hand, which had been gripping Yein''s for support, gradually loses strength.

    And Min Hojun''s face bes vacant.

    <i>Just have to perfectly finish thest lines here!''</i>

    Yoo Jaeho forgets to breathe, fixated on the monitor.

    Yein''s pink lips move.

    "Understand? Your mother was someone who could have lived, she was"

    That''s when it happened.

    The grip on Min Hojun''s cor loosens unexpectedly.

    "!"

    Before anyone can react, the unthinkable unfolds.

    "No, if he falls like that!"

    The assistant director screams in shock.

    Everyone is stunned, watching the scene unfold before their eyes.

    But Yooil, who was expected to lose bnce and fall, quickly grabs the edge of the rooftop and climbs up.

    "!"

    Even with wires, it was an impressive disy of reflexes.

    <i>It''s it''s a relief!''</i>

    The assistant director, sweating profusely, rushes towards the actors.

    "Yooil, Suna, are you both okay?!"

    "That was close to being a serious ident!"

    "I was really startled"

    Safely standing, Yooil quickly responds.

    "I''m fine."

    His gaze is fixed on Kim Suna, who is gasping for breath, her face pale.

    "I''ll take a short break!"

    "Suna, are you okay?"

    Director Yoo Jaeho and the staff''s attention is on Suna. Kim Suna, under the concerned gaze of dozens, eventually bows her head.

    "I''m sorry."

    She looks like she might copse at any moment.

    "It seems like actress Kim Suna is at her stress limit."

    Yooil watches Kim Suna being supported by the staff to the waiting room.

    "Until this project, Kim Suna''s roles were mostly bright and spirited girls'' in works like Banggulbanggul My Baby'' and Arittaun Doryeon-nim.''"

    Yooil ponders, Is there a reason?''

    "Perhaps due to her agency''s pressure, but it seems she prefers ying bright characters," adds Brion.

    "It appears she''s been seeking roles that differ greatly from her own situation."

    How did she end up in this project then?''

    "That''s because of K2 Media''s proposal."

    Yooil raises an eyebrow at the mention of the unfamiliarpany name.

    "How are you feeling now?"

    "I''m okay."

    Kim Suna, biting her lip without realizing, looks down at the warm tea offered by the psychologist. The scent of chamomile gently wafts up.

    The psychologist, with a warm smile, speaks.

    "Take your time. I heard we still have enough time."

    "That can''t be right."

    Kim Suna can''t help but let out a wryugh. Words meant tofort an actor. She has never seen a film set where every minute isn''t filled with urgency.

    Especially "The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High," a drama airing in real-time.

    <i>Stupid. Why did I think of mom there?''</i>

    Kim Suna clenches her fist. Sharp fingernails dig into her palm.

    "The loss of strength in my hand it''s just a momentarypse in concentration. There''s no other reason."

    "Is that so?"

    Kim Suna feels a bit relieved at the soft response.

    "I''m sorry to say this to the doctor, but honestly, I don''t need counseling like this. It''s better to finish shooting quickly. If I don''t return now, the shoot might get extended"

    then the agency would inevitably have to step in.

    Kim Suna cautiously holds back her words. The psychologist stares intently at Suna and asks,

    "Do you usually put others before yourself?"

    "No."

    Even at Suna''s resolute answer, the psychologist''s expression doesn''t change.

    "From what you''re saying, it seems like you''re more concerned about those around you."

    ""

    "You said you''re currently on medication?"

    Kim Suna nods slightly, and the psychologist carefully offers a business card.

    "Please feel free to contact me if you need help."

    "Thank you."

    Help.

    She once dreamed of it. Waiting for a guardian angel toe and save her, saying, I''vee to rescue you.''

    But that was a dream she had long given up.

    Kim Suna hides her bitterness behind a smile and tucks the business card deep into her bag.

    However, when she opens the door, Kim Suna is startled.

    Han Yooil is standing there, with a drink and a bottle of water in each hand.

    * * *

    Meanwhile, at the same time, Director Won Heesu was facing an unexpected challenge.

    "Come on, I''m telling you I''ll vouch for him. Don''t you trust me, Director Oh?"

    "Even so that guy hardly has any experience. I''m not so sure. There are many other talented actors showing interest"

    "Which talented actors? You''re not talking about Baek Junghyun, are you?"

    Won Heesu looked at Director Oh with irritation.

    Though Director Oh was much older, they had agreed to treat each other casually as fellow directors since 20 years ago.

    Annoyed, Won Heesu tossed a lighter roughly.

    "Ah, forget it. If you''re going to be like that, I won''t do it."

    "Just think about it. Seo Hyunju''s agency said the same. They''re concerned if the co-actor is too young"

    "What, does thepany act? Actors act!"

    Won Heesu waved his hand dismissively and picked up the remote. A 50-inch television in the office lit up, emitting a bright light.

    "Look at that."

    "What''s this all of a sudden"

    Director Oh, about to speak, closed his mouth as he watched the screen.

    A dimly-lit drama featuring students in uniforms appeared.

    <i>It''s that popr drama I heard about''</i>

    Director Oh wiped the sweat from his nose and adjusted his round sses.

    "Director Oh, you haven''t seen that, have you?"

    "You know I don''t watch dramas much."

    "Sure. That''s something to be proud of."

    The shift from cinema to OTT tforms was a natural progression for directors involved in theatrical movies.

    Yet, for those who had long been part of the film industry, this change was overwhelming.

    "Do we need direction in dramas too?"

    Even now, professors in film studies often shook their heads, murmuring this sentiment.

    Hence the saying, "Cinema is the art of the director, drama is the art of the writer." That''s why Oh Film still insists on producing movies instead of OTT series.

    Tsk.

    As he watched his longtime colleague, Won Heesu clicked his tongue and pointed at the television. With no choice, Director Oh reluctantly shifted his gaze. A boy with a disheveled appearance, as if he''d spent months alone in a corner, appeared.

    <i>Ah, so this is Han Yooil.''</i>

    <i>He looks nothing like his profile.''</i>

    Director Oh leaned back, crossing his legs.

    Why are you like this?''

    The boy was shaking another studentWon Heesu whispered, "That''s Park Younghyun"who lookedpletely out of it.

    You weren''t like this before.''

    The boy scrutinizes Park Younghyun''s face, fear loomingrger than concern in his eyes. Teachers and students, sensing something amiss, approach him. Amid attempts to reassure him that everything is fine, the boy explodes.

    I know. I know it!''

    The boy''s cry was a plea for someone to understand.

    [Please, I wish someone would understand]

    The emotion in that shout was palpable.

    And then the camera pans.

    Showing the faces of oblivious students and teachers

    Then the boy''s face fills the screen.

    !''

    Director Oh, who was initially indifferent, suddenly saw his eyes light up.

    That expression''

    Tears were welling up in the boy''s ck eyes.

    Frustration and fear.

    Yet, overshadowing all those emotions was something more intense.

    Loneliness.

    A profound loneliness, as if left alone in the world.

    The close-up of the boy''s face was more terrifying than suspenseful music or eerie sound effects.

    Without realizing it, Director Oh found himself rubbing his arms where goosebumps had formed.

    <i>Who is this kid?''</i>

    Seeing the bewildered expression on Director Oh''s face, Won Heesu said triumphantly,

    "If you still don''t see it after watching that, you''re really clueless, Director Oh."

 Chapter 59:

    Chapter 59:

    Park Younghyun was closely observing Han Yooil.

    It wasn''t his intention to watch him so intently at first but after seeing him act, he became interested, and she liked that he didn''t talk more than necessary.

    Han Yooil had been silent since Kim Suna caused a NG (No Good take).

    Instead, he was nkly staring at the spot where Kim Suna had disappeared.

    <i>Could it be an affection more than just colleagues''</i>

    Park Younghyun scrutinized Han Yooil with a doubtful expression and then shook his head.

    It doesn''t seem like that.''

    He had been to countless sets and observed the private lives of other actors.

    He was fully adept at noticing the subtle interactions that went unnoticed by others.

    <i>It seems to be a different kind of concern''</i>

    "An abandoned child by the water?"

    Yes, that''s it.

    Park Younghyun nodded his head, realizing the unexpected insight.

    "Huh?"

    A makeup team member, who was doing touch-ups, asked in surprise, and Park Younghyun shook her head.

    * * *

    Kim Suna was staring intently at Yooil, who was standing in front of the counseling room.

    "Can we talk for a moment?"

    Suna nodded her head and led Yooil to her dressing room.

    "I wasn''t in the right mind earlier I was careless. I''m sorry."

    "It''s okay. Nothing happened. How are you feeling now?"

    "Yes Much better."

    Kim Suna answered with a poker face.

    "You hardly ate your lunch earlier."

    "My stomach felt uneasy."

    "You seemed like it."

    Yooil showed her a drink he was holding.

    "When you have an upset stomach, cabbage juice is better than an electrolyte drink. The taste is so-so."

    ""

    <i>I was wondering what it was''</i>

    Cabbage juice, of all things.

    Kim Suna''s face slightly softened. Yooil handed her a bottle of water, adding,

    "And this too. I prefer in water when taking medicine."

    As Kim Suna was about to unconsciously take the water, her hand froze in mid-air.

    "What did you say?"

    Seeing the puzzled look on Yooil''s face, Kim Suna''s eyes sharpened.

    "How did you know I was taking medicine? Don''t tell me you eavesdropped on my counseling?"

    "It''s absolutely not that."

    "Then how long have you known?"

    Yooil bowed his head as if in thought. Kim Suna started to feel anxious.

    <i>I promised myself, not to let anyone know.''</i>

    She felt breathless.

    "How long have you known!"

    Yooil quietly looked into the eyes of Suna, who was ring at him.

    <i>How long have I known,''</i> indeed.

    It had been a while.

    Yooil had often seen Kim Suna drinking water in a corner of the dressing room.

    <i>Suna senior drinks water quite often.''</i>

    She seems to be taking medication.

    Even with the same scene, Brion''s analysis was quick and urate.

    <i>Medication?''</i>

    Yes. The medication Kim Suna is currently taking includesponents like alprazm from the benzodiazepine family.

    Alprazm

    Recalling his memory, Yooil soon realized. There was a reason the name was familiar.

    <i>It''s the medication I used to take.''</i>

    He felt a chill in his heart.

    The news of his parents'' ident when he was just 11 years old.

    He was too young to endure their sudden death.

    For a while, Yooil couldn''t leave the house. His heart raced day and night.

    The one who noticed the change in Yooil was Jin Hayoung.

    Yooil, my child it will get better.

    If Aunt Hayoung hadn''t been by his side at that time, the Yooil of today might not have existed.

    Yooil shook off the memories surfacing in his mind.

    In front of him was Kim Suna, looking at him with a cold face.

    "Don''t bother worrying about it. It''s not your life anyway."

    Even with her sharply thrown words, Han Yooil''s expression didn''t change.

    "It''s not your fault, senior."

    Kim Suna, about to say something, closed her mouth at Yooil''s words.

    <i>Not my fault?''</i>

    Is it really not my fault?

    Since her mother died until now.

    She had thought that the responsibility for everythingy with her.

    5 years ago, Kim Suna wanted to take a break from acting.

    It wasn''t just because she wanted to rest. She felt suffocated just by being on set. The days when she couldn''t sleep on time were increasing.

    You want to take a break from acting? Suna, do you know how much your mother wished for this moment?

    If you take a break now, it''s the end of your acting career. Do you think this industry is easy?

    Suna, think about how sad Miyeon would be if you quit now.

    Miyeon.

    Finally, the name of her mother from Lee Seokwoo''s mouth made Kim Suna break down.

    Kim Suna started acting for Miyeon.

    Her mother, more beautiful and talented than herself. Miyeon decided to make Suna the best actress from the moment she knew she had a daughter in her womb.

    From now on, he will be your father, Suna.

    Suna couldn''t say it out loud. She never liked her stepfather from the beginning.

    Why do you like this man, mom?

    He''s handsome, rich and he will do anything for our Suna.

    Kim Suna pretended to ept Miyeon''s remarriage with Seokwoo for Miyeon''s sake. It was easy to pretend to be happy about the new family. She had always been good at acting since she was young.

    That was the secret Kim Suna had hidden.

    Mom is sorry

    Miyeon said that, holding Suna''s hand before she died.

    Why did her mother apologize to her?

    <i>Mom knew it was all an act from the start.''</i>

    The dark thoughts started to emerge a year after her mother''s death.

    Kim Suna''s depression was first noticed by the manager. Injuries that could normally be covered with clothes. Suna was caught by the manager''s regr weight checks''.

    Suna, you know? A slight insomnia and anxiety. That''s just right for an actor. Kind of like a delicately sensitive artist, right?

    If people hear about these injuries you know? You won''t be able to be a lead.

    As if caring for Suna, the words were gentle. But Kim Suna knew the meaning behind them.

    <i>Don''t act like you''re about to die.''</i>

    So Kim Suna couldn''t afford to be visibly struggling.

    Kim Suna tightly closed and then opened her eyes. In front of her was a fellow actor with worried eyes.

    <i>Ah, I shouldn''t.''</i>

    Her vision kept blurring.

    "Senior."

    "I told you it''s not necessary."

    In this situation, Kim Suna didn''t want to show her tears. Clenching her teeth, she said,

    "If you really can''t help, then don''t pretend to reach out your hand"

    "What if I can help?"

    What?

    Kim Suna''s head shot up.

    "But in return, there is something you need to help with."

    Han Yooil whispered softly, bowing his head.

    Throughout the conversation, Kim Suna''s eyes gradually widened.

    Gulp.

    Kim Suna swallowed and opened her mouth. Her voice came out as if it was locked.

    "Why would you go that far?"

    Watching Kim Suna''s wavering eyes, Yooil just shrugged his shoulders lightly.

    "We''re colleagues."

    * * *

    After that incident, the filming ended safely.

    The CG work was alsopleted on time. Rumors were that the staff of Hamel Studio had been working overnight.

    What remained was just to watch the reaction to the drama.

    Ah X, chilling Didn''t someone guess from the poster?

    [I saw ament saying that seeing the shadow on Seunghyun''s face, he would be one of the victims and that Choi Yein, being the only one in a faded uniform, must have died long ago. That''s creepy.]

    Wow, how did they know?

    The production team must have been shocked lol;

    Does anyone have the link to the original post? Comment, please.

    (Link)

    This is it.

    Thanks.

    LOL, allments are pilgrims.

    My frank opinion on Saetbyeol High

    [Honestly, I thought the story was predictable, yeah

    But the acting is f*cking insane.. I feel like I know everything, but every episode still surprises me without resistance.]

    True LOL

    Seriously, the casting is perfect.

    Save Hojun

    Seriously Watching the main characters makes me feel like I''m losing my mind.

    I''m more amazed by the students living in the dormitory If it were me, I would have just broken the school gate and left.

    LOL

    Ah, LOL, I was holding my dog in fear until just now, but you made meugh.

    (Spoiler Alert) Summary of Saetbyeol High Episode 7''s ck Notebook

    [(Drama Capture Ergement)

    200X. 2. 28.<ol><li><ol><li> The basement of Saetbyeol High was closed 10 years ago due to an ident. There is no entrance.</li></ol></li></ol><ol><li><ol><li> If you find a long-haired student dancing in the 3rd-floor corridor, never talk to them.</li></ol></li></ol><ol><li><ol><li> If you talked to that student, take sick leave immediately and go home. Under no circumstances should you ept the flowers they give.</li></ol></li></ol><ol><li><ol><li> If you find a white flower ced in each ssroom on the 2nd floor, you must leave the school quickly. Never touch the ss vase the flower was in.</li></ol></li></ol><ol><li><ol><li> If you find a statue in the basement, something interesting will happen.</li></ol></li></ol><ol><li><ol><li> The ssrooms of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade at Saetbyeol High are all separated by floor. If you happen to find ssroom 1 of 2nd grade next to a 1st-grade ssroom, never show your back and run away immediately.</li></ol></li></ol><ol><li><ol><li> Item 5 on this list was deleted 10 years ago. If you read number 5 (Torn from here)]</li></ol></li></ol>

    Ah, that gives me the chills.

    Notice that only the text of item 5 is in a different font.

    Damn

    Why is item 7 torn? It''s too scary, writer

    From episode 2, since neither students nor teachers noticed, it was already doomed, yeah.

    Everyone was already enchanted

    But why didn''t anyone notice? Is there a reason?

    Flower = Enchantment

    When Hojun received the flower, only he could see Yein, but after the flowers were ced in every ssroom, everyone in the school started seeing Yein.

    Here''s a summary post (link)

    Hojun run away

    LOL, how is this supposed to be scary? LOL, I''ll sleep with my mom tonight.

    Lee Hyejin, scrolling through themunity reactions, popped a snack into her mouth.

    <i>Finally.''</i>

    Finally, it''s thest episode.

    Has she ever awaited a drama''s premiere this eagerly?

    Lee Hyejin sat in front of the television, holding her phone in one hand and snacks in the other, her heart pounding with anticipation as she waited for themercials to pass.

    And then.

    <i>It''s starting!''</i>

    The now familiar opening music began to y. Lee Hyejin fixed her posture and stared intently at the screen.

    * * *

    Hojun, who went up to the rooftop in search of Yein.

    Yein easily overpowers Hojun with her strength and begins to ruthlessly dig into his deep wounds.

    Your mother died because of you.

    Hojun''s face emptied of all expression. Tears flowed from his ck, vacant eyes.

    Yein looks at his face with satisfaction.

    Come with me. It''ll be fun.

    Forever.

    Yein''s smile deepens. Hojun, sensing something, reaches out his arm, but Yein''s hand is quicker.

    Yein, who was holding Hojun by the cor, lets him go.

    <i>!''</i>

    The image of Hojun falling to the ground goes into slow motion

    Crack.

    The sound of something breaking is heard.

    And then the screen goes ck.

    Hyejin, who had been watching with her mouth agape, unable to even think of eating her snack, froze with a shocked expression.

    <i>What, is this the end?!''</i>

    But a few secondster.

    Thump  Thump

    The trademark music of <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> begins to y.

    And with thest thump, Hojun''s eyes snap open.

    Gasp!

    Hojun, with a bewildered face, gets up.

    He realizes he was lying in his dormitory bed.

    What''s what''s this?

    It was the actual beginning of episode 8.

 Chapter 60:

    Chapter 60:

    "Are you not going to ss?"

    Hojun, with a bewildered face, points to himself.

    "Are you talking to me?"

    "? Who else is here besides you?"

    Hojun follows his unfamiliar roommate out of the room.

    Even after that, he wanders around the school, following other students with a dazed expression.

    <i>What''s going on?''</i>

    The school operates as if nothing had happened.

    Hojun, who had been going to and from the ssroom without understanding why, suddenly freezes.

    Choi Yein.

    He saw her, too bright and mingling with friends.

    !

    However, Yein does not recognize Hojun.

    Then Hojun notices therge calendar hanging in the ssroom.

    The date printed on the calendar is 199X.

    !

    The close-up of the calendar and Hojun''s surprised face is shown alternately, and Hojun realizes.

    He is in the past.

    Specifically, the past when Yein was still alive.

    Confused, Hojun decides to follow Yein to get some clues.

    Choi Yein~ Let''s go!

    30 years ago, Yein had a best friend, a student who looked younger than her peers, with a small stature and big eyes.

    Hojun overhears their conversation in the schoolyard.

    Yein, just imagine, if if you''re pregnant now, what will you do?

    What? What kind of question is that, Hong Semi!

    Semi looks at Yein with anxious eyes.

    Just imagine.

    Yein speaks nonchntly.

    Ugh, what pregnancy? That''s horrifying. If it were me, I''d just die.

    Hojun sees Semi''s face turn pale. But Yein doesn''t notice.

    She just thinks Semi is not feeling well today.

    And that night, Semi throws herself off the rooftop.

    The kid was pregnant.

    Oh my

    She died without telling anyone, that young girl.

    A funeral hall filled with students in uniforms.

    Yein''s face is empty.

    Just like Hojun''s face before he fell from the rooftop.

    After returning from the funeral, Yein goes to the art room and stares at her own sculpture.

    It was a sculpture she had made in her own image. The X marks she and Semi had drawn on their eyes were still there.

    Aaah!

    Yein starts to destroy the sculpture.

    And in the rarely visited basement, she begins her final work.

    Yein''sst masterpiece was herself.

    She steps into a huge container and encases herself in ster.

    Didn''t anyone see? Where did this student go?

    How can a student just disappear from school

    After that day, no one ever found Yein.

    It can''t be

    Hojun looks at the ster container Yein entered with a shocked face.

    At that moment, the calendar in the ssroom starts to flutter in the wind.

    Feeling something odd, Hojun tries to leave the basement, but his legs won''t move.

    Cracks begin to appear in the ster Yein was encased in.

    ng!

    Hojun, unable to move, watches the scene.

    Eventually, Yein emerges from the broken ster.

    Her skin, as pale as the ster, shines in the darkness.

    Thump-

    Yein slowly adjusts her neck.

    Click-ck.

    A chilling sound echoes through the basement.

    Yein''s gaze slowly turns.

    Thump-

    Yein, with pitch-ck eyes, looks at Hojun.

    Thump-

    It''s you.

    The moment Yein''s chilling smile is close-upped, the screen goes ck.

    [60 seconds until The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High Episode 8'' Part 2 airs.]

    <i>Gasp''</i>

    Lee Hyejin''s breath is caught.

    Thanks to themercial break, she can breathe a sigh of relief; otherwise, she would have had to spend the rest of the time with her mouth dry.

    Wow, this is crazy

    Shivers

    Knew Yein was crazy, but this is beyond what I expected.

    My heart almost stopped when our eyes met

    Seriously, watched it holding my breath.

    The amount of content in the final episode is insane.

    Lee Hyejin, after gulping down water and checking the live reactions, sat back down.

    She did it to catch the real ending of <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High>.

    * * *

    Hojun gasps for air as he opens his eyes again.

    But this time, it''s not the past.

    !

    He finds himself hanging from the rooftop, held up by someone''s hand.

    The owner of the hand is none other than Seunghyun.

    Hyung hang in there a little more!

    Despite being covered in wounds, Seunghyun pulls Hojun up with all his strength.

    The precarious situation of the two makes one''s hands sweat.

    <i>Please!''</i>

    Lee Hyejin sps her hands together and focuses on the screen.

    After what feels like 30 minutes but is actually 30 seconds of struggle, Hojun is finally pulled up safely to the rooftop.

    I found it.

    What?

    The basement.

    Seunghyun hears that Yein is in the basement, and he and Hojun decide to destroy the problematic ster there.

    The two enter the basement and start hammering the ster containing Yein.

    Despite getting cuts from the sharp ster on his hands and face, Hojun doesn''t care. He continues to smash the ster, carelessly wiping the blood on his clothes.

    Yein, who had been consumed by the memories of the past, btedly regains her senses and rushes toward them.

    No!

    But as Yein approaches them, a figure appears before her.

    It''s none other than Semi.

    Yein freezes in ce upon seeing the apparition of Semi.

    For the first time, Yein''s flustered face is shown.

    Semi just calmly faces Yein.

    Trembling, Yein watches as Semi takes a step toward her.

    I haven''t forgiven you.

    Semi reaches out a hand towards Yein.

    But I know how lonely you''ve been.

    At those words, Yein breaks down.

    Yein''s continual enchantment of the people at school and her attempts to turn the students into ghosts were all due to her loneliness.

    As the ster turns entirely to dust and mes start to appear,

    Yein vanishes.

    Apanied by a lonely tune, the backs of Hojun and Seunghyun standing in the empty yground are shown.

    And then the epilogue.

    For a while, the news about Saetbyeol High makes noise nationwide. But as time passes, people''s interest fades.

    The students also shift their focus from ghost stories to entrance exams.

    Hojun appears different than before. With his hair cut short and a healthyplexion, he enters the ssroom.

    However, the scars from that day still remain on Hojun''s hand.

    The X-shaped scar, red.

    In the drizzling rain of the morning,

    The drama ends with Hojun tenderly touching his painful scar.

    * * *

    <i>Ah! Hojun Seunghyun''</i>

    Lee Hyejin grips her phone. She feels like she has to write something, or she won''t be able to bear it.

    Of course, BlueChat is overflowing with people feeling the same way.

    That''s how Lee Hyejin spends her fiery Sunday, long forgetting that she has to go to her part-time job the next Monday.

    * * *

    <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High>''s finale achieves a viewership rating of 15.4%, marking a sessful end.

    The response was as expected, favorable.

    The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High'' Han Yooil-Kim Suna-Park Younghyun, insane acting battle

    Ambitious TN The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High'', surpassing the highest viewership ratings oveing the controversy with The Smiling Magician''

    Director Yoo Jaeho''s confident "I''ll show something" was justified

    The praise for the direction and the actors'' performances was expected, and the reaction to the drama''s content was equally hot.

    The production team, including Director Yoo, was still deeply immersed in the afterglow of the drama.

    That was evident just from the daily chat room updates. Yooil, seeing his Mitalk flooded with congrattory emoticons, put down his phone.

    Kim Suna rarely appeared in the group chat.

    We''re colleagues.

    Yooil''s answer to Kim Suna''s question, Why are you helping?''

    That wasn''t the truth.

    But Yooil knew that revealing his recollection of his own childhood in rtion to Kim Suna wouldn''t be pleasing to her.

    * * *

    Even before the final shooting, Yooil had been paying attention to WW Entertainment.

    It started with a seemingly unrted scandal.

    Male Actor in a Love Affair with Married Woman K?

    Suspicions of a Secret Meeting with an Older Woman The Fall of the Wannabe Boyfriend''

    Joo Sihyun Finally Speaks Dismisses Affair Scandal as Groundless''

    Various articles popped up on the main page of the portal site.

    Yooil frowned as he read the articles on his phone after a long time. Sensational headlines but flimsy content. Articles like baseless rumors.

    Reading the malicious articles pretending to be neutral and the excessivements, Yooil sighed.

    This was too suspicious.

    <i>Come to think of it, isn''t Joo Sihyun also with WW Ent?''</i>

    Correct. Currently, Joo Sihyun is about to renew his contract with WW Entertainment.

    <i>Could it be?''</i>

    Yooil had heard stories of unscrupulous agencies triggering scandals to lower the value of their artists for re-signing.

    Correct. It appears to be a scandal fabricated to lower the value of the affiliated artist.

    This was a warning to Kim Suna.

    A warning not to even think about leaving.

    Even more unscrupulous than expected.

    Brion responded as if answering Yooil''s thoughts.

    WW Entertainment is currently pursuing a merger and acquisition with Kedu Media. It appears that Kedu Media has been considering the acquisition of WW Entertainment sincest year. They seem to want to finalize the actors'' re-signing before the merger.

    Ah. Now the puzzle pieces fit.

    <i>Kedu Media is a subsidiary of Kedu Group, right?''</i>

    Correct.

    Yooil sighed softly.

    <i>Can I do it?''</i>

    He was honestly feeling overwhelmed.

    Until Brion spoke again.

    Yooil.

    <i>What?''</i>

    You should see this.

    A semi-transparent window popped up immediately.

    - Exposing the Corruption of K Group

    [I am a former employee of Kedu Construction, having worked alongside the current president of K Group. The current president of K Group used Kedu Construction''s stocks as coteral for loans to cover personal debts from gambling, and recently has been demanding coteral even from subsidiaries to pay for the acquired golf course and resort]

    Brion showed him an article detailing the corruption within Kedu Group.

    This post was uploaded a month ago. It was deleted from a personal blog within 10 minutes of posting, and is now unsearchable. The view count at the time was confirmed to be 5.

    How could you even show me this?

    Brion replied cheerfully.

    Once data is uploaded to the inte, it remains in some form. AI Nano Dictionary, Brion V.15, can ess most existing data.

    Yooil''s jaw tensed.

    <i>I never thought I''d say this.''</i>

    "Brion. Can we use this?"

    Yes. If the whistleblower''s story is publicized and discussed, it cannot escape investigation.

    <i>''</i>

    He knew it, but the AI''s capabilities were frightening anew.

    Regardless, the information Brion provided was immensely helpful at the moment.

    The basis for Yooil''s decision to help Kim Suna was precisely this information.

    Senior Kim Suna: Are you ready?

    Yooil immediately picked up his phone after reading the message.

    He contacted the person best equipped to handle such a situation.

    * * *

    It was a sweet Sunday, but CEO Jang was in the office. He had received a call he couldn''t ignore.

    Jang Jaehyun looked at the young man sitting in front of him.

    He had a characteristically polite smile.

    "Yooil."

    Jang Jaehyun sighed his name. It was impossible to gauge what he was thinking anymore.

    "Everything I told you on the phone is true. The details will be clearer with an investigation."

    "How on earth did you"

    Yooil slowly opened his mouth. He had prepared an answer for such questions.

    "Actually, he''s a close friend''s cousin."

    The whistleblower, the author of the blog post, was initially skeptical of Yooil''s contact, then amazed, and finally grateful. So a little lie like this he would overlook.

    Jang Jaehyun was speechless before he could finish.

    <i>You always surprise me.</i>

    Jang Jaehyun looked at the documents Yooil had provided and then spoke.

    "Well, we need to get to work."

    Yooil nodded. It seemed like he had indeed found the right person for the job.

    Jang Jaehyun''s eyes, as he stroked his chin, fixed on Yooil.

    "But, may I ask how you got involved in this?"

    "There''s someone I agreed to help."

    Yooil then took another bundle of documents out of his bag.

    "?"

    They were all materials received from Kim Suna.

    The documents she had provided were substantial.

    Embezzlement, slush funds, and records of various forms of threats and ckmail.

    It would have been impossible to gather such documents if she hadn''t been collecting them over time.

    Though she had said there was no hope, in a corner of her heart, she must have been gathering these pieces of evidence for a moment like this.

    [Thank you.]

    Yooil slipped the note with Kim Suna''s neat handwriting into his pocket.

    "I''ve heard quite a few stories about WW Entertainment too."

    The entertainment industry is small, and rumors travel fast. Jang Jaehyun had also heard various infamies about WW Entertainment.

    <i>Apany that receives investments in all kinds of dirty ways and clings to actors. While at the same time, they cover their tracks cleanly.''</i>

    And yet, such a clean counterpunch.

    "From what you''re saying, you''re not nning to blow this up immediately."

    "Yes. It seems better to detonate it after the merger with Kedu Media in a few days."

    At Yooil''s words, CEO Jang looked as if he had been hit by a bomb.

    "Haha."

    Han Yooil nned to bury WW Entertainment by linking it with the corruption of Kedu Group.

    To make sure they never set foot in this field again.

    "Yooil."

    "Yes, CEO."

    "Have you ever thought about going into politics?"

    "What?"

    As Han Yooil looked at him with a wry face, Jang Jaehyun just chuckled.

    "Just kidding."

    * * *

    "CEO~ I tried to make the office atmosphere more elegant, what do you think~?"

    Lee Seokwoo nodded in satisfaction at the manager''s words.

    His long-awaited desire hade true. With thepany''s acquisition by Kedu Media, thepany he had nurtured was listed on the stock market under a new name.

    A perfect deal, maintaining the position of the actual CEO and gaining a strong supporter.

    A subtle smile yed on Lee Seokwoo''s thin lips.

    "Ha, on such a good day, why is Suna noting again~"

    "Leave her alone, Manager Kim. She just finished filming the day before yesterday."

    "Aww CEO, you''re too soft on her~"

    To him, she was a butterfly drenched in water.

    <i>I did well to break her spirit from a young age.''</i>

    Still, she was quite useful. Pretty face and decent acting skills, she was often called here and there.

    <i>This drama went quite well too.''</i>

    Although he wasn''t really keen on it.

    If it hadn''t been for that young head of Kedu Media, he wouldn''t have asked for it.

    Suna, she should try other roles to y in bigger waters. How long will she keep doing teenage roles? She can''t just take on supporting roles as she gets older, right? Isn''t that right, CEO Lee?

    The young man''s tone was irritating, but in the end, it turned out well.

    "Things are going smoothly, very smoothly. As soon as Joo Sihyun''s contract renewal is finalized, Manager Kim, I''ll give you a generous incentive, so take a trip to Southeast Asia or somewhere."

    However, Lee Seokwoo was unaware.

    He did not know that instead of a path of roses, a real thorny road was waiting for him.

 Chapter 61:

    Chapter 61:

    Finding the whistleblower who posted about the corruption on the blog and then deleted it turned out to be not as difficult as expected.

    Of course, it was not difficult for Brion.

    It took as much time as confirming that Lee Hyejin is a heavy user of BlueChat.

    Yooil was curious about how Brion managed to find it, but he decided not to ask, as knowing the details might only burden his heart.

    <i>Anyway, it was fortunate.''</i>

    Following Brion''s advice, Yooil contacted the former employee of Kedu who had written the post anonymously.

    Truthfully, I intended to publicize the issue when I wrote the post. But thepany has connections with the media it was impossible for me to find a reporter who wasn''t connected to them. At that time, I was scared as I nned to continue working in Korea.

    The writer was soon going to work abroad and felt fortunate to be able to talk about it like this. JJ Entertainment, in exchange for receiving all the materials from the whistleblower, agreed to keep their identity strictly confidential.

    Jang Jaehyun took the responsibility for contacting the journalists to publicize the issue.

    After that, everything moved swiftly.

    Kedu Group''s Golf Course Bidding Corruption'' Bes a Known Fact Small Shareholders in Tears

    Golf Course Corruption'' Multiple Kedu Subsidiary CEOs Summoned Investigation Speeding Up?

    Prosecutors Conduct Comprehensive Searches of Kedu Group, etc.

    The investigation led to WW Entertainment.

    KWM (formerly WW Entertainment) Slush Fund Detected CEO Lee Seokwoo Summoned for Investigation

    And slowly, Kim Suna''s story began to emerge as well.

    * * *

    "Hey, you crazy b*tch!"

    As soon as Kim Suna stepped into the office, she was greeted by a shrill scream.

    The office looked as if it had been bombed. Suna, scanning the office, spoke calmly.

    "I was worried."

    At Suna''s words, the manager closed his mouth. Seeing the faint hope on the faces of Lee Seokwoo and the manager, Suna smirked.

    "Seems like the raid went well."

    At her casual words, Manager Kim was furious.

    "How could you, how could you do this to us?!"

    The manager, always wearing heavy makeup and a high bun, looked different today. Smudged eyeliner and disheveled hair. There was no leisure in her smile, which always revealed her teeth.

    "Do you think you climbed up there all by yourself?!"

    "Suna."

    Lee Seokwoo, sitting like a statue in the ck leather chair, spoke.

    "We''re not in such a rtionship, are we?"

    He continued with an exaggeratedly sad tone.

    ""

    "For your mother''s sake can''t you reconsider just once?"

    Kim Suna looked at him squarely.

    The scars deeply engraved in her heart over the past ten years couldn''t heal easily. That man was still a frightening presence to her.

    Kim Suna clenched her trembling hands.

    "You didn''t know."

    "What?"

    "It was all for my mother."

    But now, Kim Suna was certain.

    Her mother would have wanted her happiness.

    "You should have not mentioned my mother. Just say you''re sorry to me."

    Kim Suna''s gaze dropped, and one corner of her mouth lifted.

    A mocking smile full of ease.

    "What, what?"

    Lee Seokwoo''s eyes wavered.

    To anyone looking, Suna appeared calm now. The trembling in her voice, once faint, had subsided.

    "I wish you a lifetime of misery."

    Kim Suna hid her racing heart behind a cold facade as she continued.

    "May you suffer every single day, just like you tormented me and others. Every single day."

    She had always been confident in her acting, after all.

    * * *

    Three-Day Empire'' KWM (formerly WW Entertainment) on the brink of delisting What''s the inside story?

    Slush Fund Creation / Embezzlement Suspicions'' KWM in crisis, what happens to its affiliated actors?

    Threatened for re-signing,'' Joo Sihyun speaks out Gaslighting suspicions against KWM CEO

    Jang Jaehyun, his face expressionless as he scrolled through the articles, turned off his monitor as he heard a knock on his door. At the same time, a practiced smile appeared on his face.

    The person behind the knock bowed immediately upon entering.

    "Thank you."

    Jang Jaehyun quietly observed Kim Suna''s long hair, which reached down to her calves as she bowed.

    "Ms. Kim Suna, you may straighten up."

    He nced briefly at Han Yooil''s profile pinned on the wall as he added,

    "And it''s Yooil who deserves more gratitude than me."

    "I heard you took efforts to prevent sensational articles from being published under my name."

    Jang Jaehyun continued with a smooth smile,

    "Going forward, Ms. Suna will also be working with us. It''s only natural."

    "Still, thank you, CEO."

    After terminating her contract with WW Entertainment, many agencies sent love calls to Kim Suna. A good actress in her early twenties was a rare find, after all.

    But among the myriad of agencies, Kim Suna chose JJ Entertainment.

    Kim Suna''s brown eyes drifted to the floor.

    "I intend to thank Yooil personally"

    Kim Suna had only passed on the umted evidence to Yooil without knowing the full details of the situation. But it was clear that Yooil was directly involved in everything.

    Once, she had tried to understand why he would go to such lengths for her, but now she no longer sought answers.

    It was clearly a gesture of goodwill.

    Though she still couldn''t quite believe it.

    Kim Suna sighed lightly as she gazed out the window.

    * * *

    That same afternoon.

    Yooil, entering thepany after a long time, opened the white door.

    Kim Suna and Park Younghyun were already sitting at the round table. Yooil took the remaining empty seat and began,

    "Have both of you been well?"

    Warmth returned to the once silent conference room.

    "We''ve been well."

    "Me too."

    Though both were typically reserved, the atmosphere felt different from their first meeting.

    After all, today was the day JJ Entertainment was shooting a short promotional video with its actors for O''Tube.

    "It''ll be over soon, so don''t be too nervous!"

    As the staff said, the shoot wasn''t difficult.

    The three of them followed the script for a short conversation and then faced the camera to offer New Year''s greetings and share their ns for the year.

    "Hello, I''m actor Han Yooil. Honestly, I still feel shy to call myself an actor but I will work hard to show you better performances. I wish you all a happy new year and a joyful year ahead. Thank you."

    Yooil was the first to finish his greeting.

    Looking around after finishing, Yooil felt a bit puzzled.

    <i>What''s going on?''</i>

    For some reason, the expressions in Park Younghyun and Kim Suna''s eyes had changed since a moment ago.

    "As much love as I''ve received so far, I''ll return it through my acting. I''ll show you a new, different Kim Suna than before."

    "I''ll be an actor who leaves good memories for everyone who has known Park Younghyun, whether it was from 20 years ago or someone who''s just getting to know me now."

    It definitely wasn''t the greeting they had practiced initially.

    "Wow, such passion, actors!"

    The unsuspecting PR team member pped her hands with a cheerful face.

    "Well, as long as it turns out well, that''s all that matters."

    Satisfied, the PR team member gave a thumbs up.

    "Great work, everyone~"

    "Thank you for your hard work."

    After a round of light farewells, just as everyone was about to stand up, it happened.

    "Ah, Yooil, could you stay for a moment?"

    At the employee''s request, Yooil nodded and sat back down. Soon, including the employees, everyone had left the meeting room.

    "I''ll be right back, so please don''t go anywhere and just stay seated!"

    "Yooil! I also have something to take care of, so I''ll step out for a moment!"

    With even Min Woojin, who seemed more tense than usual, leaving the meeting room, Yooil was left alone in the now-quiet space.

    About 10 minutes must have passed.

    Yooil continued to sit alone in the empty meeting room, waiting.

    Meanwhile, Brion was calcting probabilities unasked.

    Probability of an unexpected ident urring after leaving the meeting room 15.9%, probability of forgetting Mr. Yooil 0.5%

    <i>Enough. They''ll be back soon.''</i>

    That''s when it happened.

    Suddenly, the lights in the meeting room went out.

    As Yooil blinked and tried to look around, a projector beam hit an empty wall.

    "?"

    As Yooil looked around in confusion, a video started ying on the white wall.

    [JJHan Yooil]

    Chubby and adorable letters appeared inrge size.

    [Already a year!]

    Yooil was still unable to grasp the situation, merely blinking.

    Meanwhile, the video projected showed various still cuts of Yooil from filming sites.

    With each transition of still cuts, the cute font continued to pop up and dominate the center of the video.

    [Works tirelessly like an ox!]

    [Born to act!]

    After all sorts of cheesy adjectives passed by, giant sky-blue letters appeared on a ck screen.

    [Han Yooil]

    "Ah."

    If he was feeling bewildered just a moment ago, now he was dying of embarrassment. Han Yooil covered his face with one hand and bowed his head.

    It was very touching but overwhelmingly embarrassing.

    -ck!

    At that moment, the lights turned on.

    "Happy one year anniversary~ Happy one year anniversary~ To our beloved actor Han Yooil~ Happy one year anniversary~"

    And there they were, the colleagues Yooil had been waiting for, peeking their faces in. They were holding a sky-blue lettering cake with a lit candle shaped like the number one.

    "Congrattions, Yooil~"

    Next to the cake, Director Jang Jaeyi cheerfully shouted.

    Min Woojin was pping enthusiastically, wearing a cute party hat. For some reason, Park Younghyun and Kim Suna were also standing behind him, wearing the same party hats. Even the cameramen, two of them, had followed in with cameras in hand.

    <i>Could it be.''</i>

    Only then did Yooil notice the small camera attached to a corner of the ceiling.

    "You''ve finally noticed!"

    "We were worried everyone would catch on too quickly since Yooil is so perceptive~"

    "Ah, what a relief!"

    The cheerful voices of the employees echoed in the meeting room. Yooil himself waspletely overwhelmed.

    "Um Thank you"

    It felt like receiving an unexpected gift.

    Perhaps like getting a Christmas present in the middle of summer.

    The cake, with its background painted like an Impressionist oil painting in deep blue and sky blue, was adorned with cute whipped cream flowers. After blowing out the candle, he noticed the writing in purple cream.

    [To the one and only Han Yooil, may you always walk on a path of flowers!]

    "Yooil, we specifically chose sky blue because we heard you like it! How is it?"

    A conversation with Min Woojin about a month ago suddenly came to mind.

    Yooil, it''s a bit out of the blue, but what''s your favorite color?

    Me? Hmm, I don''t particrly have a favorite, but if I have to choose, sky blue?

    <i>I didn''t expect it to be used this way.''</i>

    They were more thoughtful than he realized.

    "Congrattions, Yooil."

    "Congrattions."

    Park Younghyun and Kim Suna offered their greetings with bright faces. However, Yooil couldn''t feel entirely at ease.

    "I couldn''t even attend Senior Younghyun''s first-anniversary party."

    "That''s understandable. You were filming at the time, Yooil."

    Younghyun looked at Yooil as if it was the most natural thing.

    An employee whispered to Yooil.

    "We didn''t n to invite the actors, but those two insisted they wanted to celebrate with you."

    It wasn''t necessary.

    But it did feel nice.

    "Let''s eat something delicious today!"

    "Order whatever you all want!"

    Seemingly more excited than Yooil, the employees shouted for expensive sushi!'', expensive chicken!'', expensive ribs!'', expensive shaved ice!'', and Jang Jaeyi willingly ordered every item.

    * * *

    When everyone''s stomach was full, the small party came to an end. Before heading home, Yooil went to the office at the request of Director Jang Jaeyi.

    "Thank you, Director. It was a real surprise."

    "You looked surprised. It was worth the preparation."

    Looking proud, Jang Jaeyi slowly began to speak.

    "For Yooil''s first anniversary, we''re nning to start an official fan club. Along with an online fan meeting."

    "What?"

    A fan meeting.

    As Yooil looked at her in surprise, she spoke with a firm voice.

    "It can''t be helped. The employees are having a hard time because of you, Yooil. We''re flooded with requests to start an official fan club for you."

    Seeing Yooil''s bewildered face, Jang Jaeyi let out a smallugh.

    "It''s a joke about the employees. But we''ve been preparing this for two months already."

    She showed a yful smile.

    "How about it? Are you excited?"

    "Yes."

    Heart rate increase by 21bpm. Body temperature normal. Oxygen saturation normal. Slight nervousness or excitement is detected.

    Yooil sipped his water, ignoring Brion''s analysis. Drinking the cold water seemed to calm his slightly excited state.

    "Oh, by the way, Yooil. We should also start preparing."

    "For what?"

    "The Berlin Film Festival. The Mysterious Garden. You know it''s been invited to the Panorama section."

    Yooil almost spat out the water he was drinking.

 Chapter 62:

    Chapter 62:

    "What?!"

    "Did you really not know? Director Gu Chanik told us not to tell you because he wanted to inform you himself."

    Jang Jaeyi shrugged her shoulders and added.

    "He''s always been a yful one, that man."

    Yooil unwittingly touched his face.

    Director Gu Chanik, yful?

    <i>It''s not a joke, he probably really forgot.''</i>

    The Berlin Film Festival.

    One of the world''s top three film festivals, along with the Cannes and Venice Film Festivals.

    Although it might not be as well-known as the other two festivals, its prestige remains undiminished.

    This time, The Mysterious Garden was invited to the Panorama section, not thepetition section.

    Jang Jaeyi hinted that it was okay to look forward to the red carpet outfits she had selected, with a twinkle in her eye.

    "Berlin is more casualpared to other festivals, so you have a wider range of choices."

    Yooil, who had been stunned by the shocking news of the invitation to the Berlin Film Festival, snapped back to reality at the sight of Jang Jaeyi''s sparkling eyes. Memories of the fitting hell during the Busan International Film Festival shed through Yooil''s mind.

    <i>''</i>

    "This time were nning to film the fitting and upload it to the agency''s YouTube channel."

    Had Jang Jaeyi''s smile ever looked so mischievous?

    Yooil nodded weakly.

    "Thank you, Director."

    * * *

    [@jinnnny Ha, my actor''s going to Berlin (news capture)]

    [@yuulll_33 How can a neer have such a portfolio?]

    [@djWjfkrhdy CrazyReally seems to pick the right projects]

    [@jinnnny Ah It''s worth being a fan]

    Lee Hyejin felt like she could be full without eating these days.

    While uploading a storm on BlueChat today, she couldn''t resist her rising fan feelings and turned on The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High again.

    "Hey, don''t you get tired of that? How many times are you watching it, sis."

    The words of her brother, who hade home after a long time, didn''t reach Lee Hyejin''s ears. Her admiration for Han Yooil only deepened day by day.

    A few days ago, when her friends were checking their love fortune with tarot cards, she staunchly checked her fan fortune.

    Hmm Student, I don''t know who it is, but you''ve chosen well. He''s a good person. Kind, lucky! You won''t have any troubles. And he''s good at what he does What do they call it professionally handsome?''

    The joy of hearing those words from the tarot master.

    She wanted to jump up and shout, Yes, the actor I chose is exactly that kind of person!'', but she managed to hold back.

    Reliving that proud moment, Lee Hyejin''s phone rang.

    <i>A YouTube notification.''</i>

    And it was from JJ Entertainment''s YouTube channel. Lee Hyejin''s hands moved faster than light.

    [JeterView] New Year''s resolutions of the passionate Saetbyeolz! If you''re curious,e and see~

    "Gasp."

    The thumbnail was a trap. Three actors smiling brightly, among them, the one who caught Lee Hyejin''s eye was Han Yooil. A face shining brighter than Lee Hyejin''s future.

    <i>The agency''s doing a great job''</i>

    However, Lee Hyejin was slightly disappointed by the short duration of the video. Noting the video was only about 4 minutes long, she pressed the y button slowly.

    [The first meeting of the three actors after shooting!]

    Have you both been well?

    Yes, I have.

    Me too.

    Subtitles showed Yooil, Suna, and Younghyun conversing in a somewhat awkward yet affectionate manner.

    Suna, now that we meet again in the samepany, how do you feel about it?

    Kim Suna pondered for a moment upon Yooil''s question.

    Hmm It''s nice. Thepany is bright and also bright.

    Oh, you mean the interior?

    Yes, it''s bright. The walls are white.

    Yooil, with wide-open eyes full of curiosity, and Younghyun, nodding seriously in agreement.

    Their interaction made Lee Hyejin burst into unexpectedughter.

    [Like turning on 100 fluorescent lights in JJ Entertainment! (Actually, it''s more than 100)]

    The video included witty subtitles and inserts showing the bright and white interior of the agency.

    Ah no, I meant the atmosphere is bright.

    Oh.

    Ah! I''m sorry.

    Sweatdrop graphics appeared over Yooil''s face, who wasughing awkwardly. After the brief conversation, each actor shared their resolutions for the year.

    "Ha So good"

    As Lee Hyejin was capturing every second of Han Yooil''s face, she btedly shifted her gaze to thements.

    OMG it''s the Saetbyeolz

    As it happened, the leads of <The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High> all became part of JJ Entertainment, so people continued to use the nickname they had during the drama''s broadcast.

    Lee Hyejin started reading otherments with a proud smile.

    Saetbyeolz, may you only walk on a path of flowers!!!!!!!

    1:01 Neither Kim Suna nor Han Yooil thought anything was odd about Park Younghyun''s response, which was hrious

    ?? : Bright and.. also.. bright

    And Park Younghyun being so serious about it

    Yooil.. If you''re not an actor, then who is..

    Exactly..

    Ah 2:45 When Han Yooil says I''m embarrassed to call myself an actor'', look at Kim Suna and Park Younghyun''s expressions

    They''re both cursing with their eyes, aren''t they

    Uh oh.. I keep seeing Kim Suna as Yein..

    Me too Every time Suna speaks, I flinch

    Used to Seunghyun''s bright sunshine, seeing the calm and gentle Younghyun is a bit hard to adjust to

    Beep beep, that''s normal

    There are only good actors in JJ Entertainment,,

    For real

    Go Heeyeon is also an amazing actor..

    While happily likingments, Lee Hyejin realized there was another new video posted.

    [JJSpoiler] JJYooil. Already a year?! And there''s going to be an online fan meeting?! (Must watch till the end)

    <i>Insane.''</i>

    Unable to contain her excitement, Lee Hyejin clicked on the video.

    Then, the same meeting room from the previous video appeared.

    [Just after filming the New Year''s greeting video]

    Yooil, about to stand up with the other actors, was approached by an employee.

    [Employee: I''ll be right back, so please don''t go anywhere and just stay seated! (Anxious)]

    [Manager: Yooil! I have something to take care of too, so I''ll step out! (Awkward)]

    To anyone watching, it was obviously unnatural acting, but Han Yooil seemedpletely unsuspecting.

    The video then showed a rapid montage of employees setting up the cake, putting on party hats, and the actors, interspersed with Yooil sitting quietly in the meeting room.

    While the surprise party was being prepared, there was a humorous incident where a promotional team employee had to rummage through the storage for new party hats because the strings of the ones prepared broke.

    Meanwhile, Han Yooil sat upright, quietly waiting for the employee.

    The camera focused on Yooil was mounted on the ceiling, so his expression wasn''t clearly visible from the front, but at least a small glimpse of his face was visible.

    [Dazed]

    With a small subtitle, Yooil''s zoomed-in face appeared. He was staring into space with his mouth slightly open and a nk look in his eyes.

    <i>My actor looks good even when he''s zoning out''</i>

    Discovering this new fact about Han Yooil, Lee Hyejin yfully hit her pillow while capturing the moment.

    Soon after, the video JJ Entertainment prepared was projected through the beam projector.

    Yooil, biting his lip and looking unsure of what to do, eventually covered his face with one hand and bowed his head.

    [Finally, the employees make their entrance!]

    Happy first anniversary~ To our beloved actor Han Yooil~

    The employees, along with Kim Suna and Park Younghyun, appeared with the cake, and finally, the camera moved from the ceiling to show Yooil''s face up close.

    He was a mix of confusion, joy, and surprise, his lips twitching slightly.

    Thank you

    [Genuinely surprised Actor Yooil]

    "Ah."

    Who knew a grown man could look so adorable? Lee Hyejin rapidly captured the moment again, hitting her pillow. After the pleasant surprise party ended, the video was drawing to a close.

    And then, the moment Lee Hyejin was eagerly awaiting appeared in subtitles.

    [We are recruiting members for Actor Han Yooil''s official fan club!]

    <i>Jackpot.''</i>

    [We n to decide the fan club''s name together with the fans at the online fan meeting, so we hope for your participation!]

    Lee Hyejin''s face stiffened as she picked up her phone. The online fan meeting was scheduled for ten dayster.

    With a solemn heart, she was inputting the date into her calendar when her phone rang.

    Boss: Hyejin, are you avable toe to work next Friday~? Minju said she has a schedule that day~

    Hyejin quickly sent a refusal message.

    Sorry. It seems I''ll have a schedule that day too

    A part-time job? That''s none of her concern.

    Her actor is having an online fan meeting!

    And they''re even deciding the fan club''s name there!

    <i>I will definitely participate.''</i>

    Determination surged through Lee Hyejin''s clenched fist. It was a resolve that no one could break.

    * * *

    The day after the video was released.

    Yooil stepped out of his house wearing dark blue jeans, a beige knit, and a thick padded jacket.

    <i>It''s still quite cold.''</i>

    He felt a chill even justing down to the underground parking lot. As Yooil opened his car, he spotted Min Woojin wearing a white short sleeve.

    "Hyung Aren''t you cold?"

    "I turned on the heater. Plus, I don''t usually feel cold that much!"

    And he pointed to the passenger seat where he had his padding jacket ready.

    "On a day like this, we should have hot beef soup. What do you like, Yooil?"

    "I well"

    Yooil, about to answer naturally, suddenly stopped.

    "Hyung, don''t tell me you''re asking this on purpose too?"

    "You don''t trust me now, do you?"

    "I trust you, it''s just that"

    "No, thepany asked me to ask you just once! That was all!"

    Seeing Yooil''s meaningful expression, Min Woojin shook his head vigorously, looking wronged.

    A yful smile appeared on Yooil''s face at the sight of Min Woojin''s flushed face.

    "I trust you, hyung but it feels like our trust has been slightly shattered since then?"

    "What, no?! Hey, Yooil!"

    Min Woojin was always fun to tease.

    The manager, vehemently denying any wrongdoing, eventually closed his mouth with a sad face.

    However, after a few minutes, he started sharing various stories as if nothing had happened.

    "Right. You said you contacted Director Gu Chanik, right?"

    "Yes."

    Yesterday, Yooil had called Director Gu Chanik.

    Ah, yeah. I was about to contact you. Looks like we''ll be flying together.

    Director Gu Chanik''s tone was as usual.

    Is this your first time in Berlin? Ah, you haven''t been anywhere except Vietnam, right?

    After the call, Yooil ended up listening to Director Gu Chanik''s favorite Pho ces in Berlin before hanging up.

    Even Brion seemed taken aback, keeping silent for a while after the call ended.

    Yooil also contacted Hwang Riu afterwards.

    Senior Hwang Riu: See you in Berlin. Stay healthy until then.

    Fiddling with his phone, Yooil shifted his gaze to the window.

    The Ofilm building, where he had been for a meeting with Director Won Heesu before, caught his eye.

    "We''re here, Yooil!"

    "Thanks, hyung."

    Goal Achievement Rate: 23.1%

    Yooil nced at the goal achievement rate floating in front of him before getting out of the car.

    Perhaps it was the excitement. Even though the cold air hit his cheeks, it no longer felt chilly.

    "Pleasee this way, Actor Han!"

    Yooil followed the staff''s lead and entered the spacious meeting room.

    It was the reading session for the film <Jinhee>, which was shrouded in secrecy even in its casting.

 Chapter 63:

    Chapter 63:

    Just as you practiced, Mr. Yooil.

    Yooil sat down, listening to the voice of Brion.

    After everything about Kim Suna had wrapped up, Yooil watched Kim Soobong''s "Jinhee" once more.

    He realized anew that it was a masterpiece, perfectly harmonizing direction, sound, and acting.

    <i>It''s still good even when watched again.''</i>

    In fact, there was a reason Yooil watched "Jinhee" again.

    I''ll give you a mission. Think of an image that can concretely represent the character Kiwoon''. Anything is fine.

    Director Won Heesu had added this when announcing the casting news.

    <i>I said okay, but''</i>

    It was a statement that still felt vague to him.

    While Yooil was quietly watching the rolling credits, Brion spoke to him.

    In this case, the concept of psychological gesture'' by Michael Chekhov might be helpful.

    <i>Michael Chekhov?''</i>

    Yooil knew the ywright Chekhov but had never heard of Michael.

    Michael Chekhov was a Russian-American actor, writer, and director, a nephew of Anton Chekhov and a favored student of Stanivski.

    Brion continued quickly.

    A psychological gesture is an invisible potential gesture'' intended to evoke an actor''s actions, not an actual gesture shown to the audience.

    <i>It''s kind ofplicated.''</i>

    Yet, the exnation that Brion continued with felt just asplex.

    Imagine and concentrate on the events and characters of the y, expressing what the character desires and aims for in the simplest, archetypal action through the unfolding image in front of you. Nouns or abstract concepts, images, can also be the nature of an action.

    <i>So, encapste the character''s desire and goal in one gesture?''</i>

    Exactly. For instance, when he yed Ivan the Terrible'', he imagined acting as a giant bird flying with one wing broken.

    It was still difficult, but Yooil felt he roughly understood the idea.

    <i>Let''s give it a try.''</i>

    Yooil slowly moved his body.

    First, you have to choose the archetype'' of the psychological gesture.

    <i>If it''s Kiwoon, then''</i>

    Strength gradually entered the tips of Yooil''s straight fingers.

    His delicately moving fingertips moved. He stretched out his hand as if he was about to pull someone up any moment.

    And then he slowly pulled.

    So that the stiff counterpart coulde towards him.

    As if pulling someone out of a harmless swamp, someone who is scared.

    That was a good attempt.

    At Brion''s words, Yooil bit his lip.

    <i>I''ll try again.''</i>

    * * *

    Maybe it was becausest night''s practice ran long. His eyelids were heavier than usual.

    <i>Brion. That effect.''</i>

    Starting the awakening effect.

    After a chilling sensation hit his body, making him shiver, Yooil looked at the script with a clear mind.

    "Oh, Mr. Yooil~"

    It wasn''t long before Director Won Heesu entered the meeting room with a bright face and spoke to Yooil.

    "It seems like your features have be more striking, seeing you after a long time?"

    "No, not at all."

    "Too much modesty isn''t cool either. Be moderate, just moderate."

    Then, the assistant director, after receiving a phone call, discreetly informed Director Won.

    "Director, actor Gu Ilhwan has arrived. And actress Seo Hyunju will be here in 5 minutes as well."

    "Oh, really? Good. Let''s get ready quickly."

    Soon after, the meeting room door opened.

    Gu Ilhwan, dressed in a top from a famous grey golf clothing brand and ck pants, entered.

    Even in his 60s, Gu Ilhwan was an actor who consistently appeared across various media. In "Jinhee," he was ted to y Jinhee''s ill husband.

    "Hello, senior."

    Yooil quickly stood up and greeted him, and the actor responded with a kind smile and a gesture to sit.

    A few minutester, the door opened again.

    <i>!''</i>

    Instantly, the atmosphere in the meeting room changed.

    "Nice to meet you."

    A soft yet strong bass voice filled the room.

    Seo Hyunju is an actress in her mid-20s, who had dominated themercial industry with the tagline a woman like a ss bead''.

    Yooil was aware of her. After all, themercial was legendary.

    Seo Hyunju. An actress in her 40s with the most diverse filmography among her peers.

    She walked in, dressed in a deep pink blouse and ck cks, smoothing her neatly arranged bob hair.

    Seated, Seo Hyunju intently gazed at Yooil.

    <i>That kid, huh.''</i>

    The first emotion she felt when she heard the news of Han Yooil''s casting was curiosity.

    It might also be because she had recently binged "The Missing Case of Saetbyeol High."

    <i>Has it only been 2 years since his debut?''</i>

    Considering the works Han Yooil had done so far, it was remarkable. For a neer, such a filmography was unheard of.

    Her agency had worried about the age of the co-actor, but from the beginning, Seo Hyunju didn''t care about that. After all, acting was what mattered.

    <i>I just hope he doesn''t disappoint.''</i>

    Then, Director Won Heesu stood up.

    After a brief round of introductions, Director Won opened his mouth with a yful expression.

    "Until the crank-in, the casting ispletely confidential~ I trust everyone knows that? If this leaks, I''ll chase it to the end, you know?"

    And then, the reading for "Jinhee" began.

    * * *

    "Please don''t cry, Miss Jinhee."

    On one side, someone cried desperately, tears reddening their eyes,

    "I''m asking you. Don''t call my name."

    While the other spoke with a cold voice, struggling to hold back tears.

    <i>What the?''</i>

    The assistant director blinked in confusion. ncing over, even Director Won Heesu seemed taken aback.

    <i>To take a reading this far?''</i>

    This was the first time they had seen a reading session like this.

    Especially for an actress of Seo Hyunju''s caliber to be this passionate in a reading even more so.

    Gu Ilhwan''s profound acting anchored the scene, while Han Yooil and Seo Hyunju passionately exchanged lines between them. It felt more like witnessing a theater rehearsal than a simple reading.

    <i>It''s strange. It certainly didn''t feel like this atmosphere at the beginning''</i>

    The assistant director furrowed their brows, trying to pinpoint where they might have missed the shift.

    However.

    "My husband is waiting."

    At the cold words of Jinhee, Kiwoon slowly opened his mouth.

    Over Kiwoon''s deste face, the firm expression that Jinhee had shown slowly oveid.

    "You want to leave, don''t you?"

    "What are you even"

    "Old and sick, a husband you never loved in the first ce."

    As Kiwoon''s voice, calm enough to sound chilly, resonated in the meeting room, the assistant director stopped pondering.

    And began to watch the acting, as if enchanted.

    * * *

    "Unnie, you were totally amazing today! You just devoured the scene, didn''t you?!"

    After the reading, Seo Hyunju''s young manager showed a thumbs-up as she got into the car, but she shook her head at the enthusiastic praise.

    "That wasn''t me."

    "What?"

    Seo Hyunju avoided the puzzled gaze of her manager, recalling what had happened just minutes ago.

    She never intended to hold back during readings. For Seo Hyunju, reading was merely a process to see if the lines fitfortably in her mouth.

    However today was different.

    "Why do you keeping here?"

    "Because I want to see you."

    Her own calm words brought back suppressed emotions just as calmly, and

    "I''ve forgotten everything. Everything that happened between us!"

    "When she spat out the lines with a mix of sadness and anger, the other returned a little of the condensed sorrow.

    Engaging in the exchange of lines, she found herself deeply immersed without realizing.

    The mystery was resolved by the question Director Won Heesu asked Yooil after the reading.

    Did you seed in the mission I gave you?

    At Director Won''s words, Yooil nodded.

    Kiwoon is a mirror.

    A mirror?

    A broken mirror, not even aware of being a mirror itself.

    That''s when Seo Hyunju realized.

    Why he had peculiarly mimicked her tone and expressions.

    A smallugh escaped Seo Hyunju''s lips.

    "He''s an interesting kid."

    She murmured, shaking her head.

    Feeling like she had made the right choice with this film.

    * * *

    "Yooil, we''re here!"

    Stage 3 Completion Rate: 25.8%

    Yooil, looking at the slightly increasedpletion rate, was promptly pulled into the lobby by the waiting stylist as soon as he arrived in front of the costume team''s office.

    "Before we finalize the outfit for the red carpet, there are some quick checks I need to do!" The stylist''s eyes sparkled as they scrutinized Yooil, his presence somehow shrinking under their gaze.

    "You usually dress casually, right?"

    "I guess so."

    To be honest, before he started acting, Yooil hadn''t had the leisure to care about style.

    He used to buy the biggest discounted clothes at outlets, not in a position to fuss over design or color.

    Buttely, following Brion''s and thepany''s advice, he was gradually learning about clothes that suited him.

    "I felt it when you shot the GINVERG advertisement, Yooil. Styles like these would suit you too."

    A look with a grey coat, beanie, and ck cks, an outfit with a basic grey sweatshirt topped with a khaki bomber jacket, matched with ck cks and shoes, and a look with a brown zer and trousers, topped with a ck coat

    They were clean yet casual, natural yet stylish.

    As Yooil intently examined the references, he spoke up.

    <i>This is what they call normcore, right?''</i>

    Correct. Normcore is a portmanteau of Normal'' and Hardcore'', referring to a style that matches a natural look with points that reveal one''s individuality.

    <i>So, a little research did help, after all.''</i>

    "Normcore style right?"

    "Oh, right! Simply put, it''s about looking effortlessly stylish. Basic, but with a point of interest!"

    The stylist nodded excitedly.

    "A purely basic style is fine, but I think a little fun point suits you well, Yooil. Hmm, personally, I''m curious about apletely unique look too"

    Yooil quickly averted his gaze from the stylist, who was licking their lips in anticipation.

    "Now, Mr. Actor! Shall we get started for real?"

    The inevitable had arrived.

    Yooil took heavy steps toward the office he had visited a few months ago.

    As soon as he entered, he nkly stared at the myriad of suits, scarves, and fashion items waiting for him.

    "You don''t mean, all of this is"

    "Of course, it''s all for Yooil!"

    He seemed to recall Director Jang Jaeyi saying they had picked out a few''

    Beside a dazed Yooil, the stylist and the costume team staff started an enthusiastic debate.

    "It''s the Berlin Film Festival, so let''s go for a color other than ck."

    "Yooil''s skin tone is on the lighter side, so even a vivid color would be great!"

    Hearing the excited voices of the staff, Yooil smiled in resignation.

    Director Jang Jaeyi, appearing out of nowhere, cheerfully asked him.

    "How is it, not as much as you thought, right?"

    "What?"

    Yooil desperately wanted to go home.

    *Michael Chekhov, "On The Technique of Acting"

    **Michael Chekhov, "Lessons for The Professional Actor"

 Chapter 64:

    Chapter 64:

    "The goal for today is to finally choose three outfits."

    The staff member from the costume team added with a kind smile,

    "One for the photocall, one for the GV (group viewing), and one for the closing ceremony!"

    The cinematographer who had handled Yooil during thest surprise party entered the office with a camera in hand.

    And so began the filming for the agency''s in-house content.

    "Hello, this is Han Yooil. Today, I''ll be selecting outfits for the Berlin Film Festival"

    After a brief introduction to the camera, a real fashion show began.

    Yooil moved between the changing room and the mirror, trying on various outfits.

    From a brown suit set to a long ck velvet tuxedo

    <i>It''s more subdued than I thought.''</i>

    Yooil rxed a bit and turned his head towards the next outfit.

    "Now, let''s try on the next wow."

    Han Yooil momentarily lost his words. The outfit in front of him was aplete contrast to what he had just said.

    The stylist presented a magenta-colored suit with a perfect mix of purple and hot pink. Even the shirt to be worn underneath was a light pink. Upon closer inspection, there were patterns made of white thread.

    "You can pull it off, Yooil."

    "Exactly~!"

    "Aren''t you all having too high expectations for me?"

    His mild protest was ineffective. Yooil obediently entered the changing room.

    "Oh my."

    Director Jang Jaeyi''s eyes widened as she looked at Yooil.

    "It''s amazing How can the color suit you so well~?"

    "I told you, right? It would be fine."

    Despite his initial skepticism, Yooil had to admit that it wasn''t as bad as he thought upon seeing himself in the mirror.

    <i>It''s better than I thought.''</i>

    Perfect matching will require additional makeup.

    I know.

    Yooil went back into the changing room with a resigned expression. After trying a few more outfits, the final selections for the film festival were made.

    For the photocall, a white inner with a cobalt blue suit set, for the GV, denim jeans with a grey jacket and a casual shirt, and finally, for the closing ceremony, a loose-fitting ck suit with a silky grey blouse was chosen.

    "Next time, we definitely have to go with magenta~!"

    The stylist seemed regretful, unable to let go of the magenta option.

    After deciding on all the outfits for the festival, the sky had already turned dark.

    "You did well, Yooil! Shall I take you home now?"

    Woojin, who had been waiting in the car, stretched and asked.

    Mitalk!

    As Yooil was about to nod, he was interrupted by the sound of his phone.

    "Hyung."

    "Why, Yooil!"

    "I think you can just drop me off at thepany."

    Min Woojin''s eyes widened at Yooil''s words.

    "Huh? Thepany?"

    Han Yooil looked at the message he had just received.

    Senior Park Younghyun: Yooil, if you have time, can youe to thepany?

    Sneior Park Younghyun: Sorry for the typo. Can youe to thepany for a moment if you have time?

    * * *

    Park Younghyun was in thepany''s underground practice room. It was a fairly spacious room with three walls made of mirrors.

    Yooil looked around the practice room curiously.

    <i>It''s my first time in thepany''s practice room.''</i>

    He had been practicing in his room because it was too much trouble toe to thepany If he had known it was this nice, he would have used it earlier.

    Park Younghyun observed Han Yooil''s expression before speaking.

    "It seems like you''re busy."

    "No, it''s okay. I was just on my way home anyway."

    Younghyun seemed a bit relieved at Yooil''s response.

    "Actually, there''s something I want to ask you, which is why I called you here."

    After a brief hesitation, he continued,

    "I''d like to ask for help with some acting practice."

    "Acting practice?"

    And then Park Younghyun handed over a crumpled script.

    The script he passed was for "Preparatory Work."

    A film released 20 years ago by director Kim Jonghwan, acimed as a masterpiece delicately depicting the gloom and shadows of youth''.

    Yooil had seen the movie before. At the time of watching, he was quite young, so he couldn''t fully empathize with the characters. However, he remembered the story well  a romance about Jinho, a man dreaming of bing a writer, and Gahee, a woman dreaming of bing an actress, struggling between their dreams and love, eventually leading to a tragic ending.

    "I have a project I really want to do The director said there''s something they want to see before confirming the casting."

    "Ah."

    Another person who had received a direct mission from the director.

    "Is that Preparatory Work''?"

    "Yes."

    Park Younghyun added that he was told to reinterpret the male protagonist of Preparatory Work'' into a different character.

    "It''s hard to notice any improvement when I practice alone. And I don''t really have anyone to help me with this. I''m not close enough with Suna to contact her separately."

    <i>It''s definitely tough to practice alone.''</i>

    The more famous and memorable the original character, the more this issue arises. No matter how much one practices, there''s the problem of ending up imitating the actor acting'' rather than the character. At some point, it''s hard to tell if you''re doing an impression or acting.

    Yooil, having experienced this himself while practicing Kiwoon alone, understood the predicament.

    Wait.

    <i>Then this is also a kind of reinterpretation?''</i>

    Brion implicitly agreed through silence. Yooil immediately responded,

    "Alright. Let''s practice together."

    "Thank you."

    Yooil turned his attention to the script.

    <i>Now that I think about it, this role was yed by Hwang Yiwon.''</i>

    Indeed. After debuting in Pretty Brothers'', actor Hwang Yiwon began to be recognized for his acting through Preparatory Work''.

    The Jinho portrayed by Hwang Yiwon in Preparatory Work'' was quiet, calm, and mature beyond his years. However, in his mind, he enjoyed all sorts of bold fantasies.

    Yooil turned to the page marked by Younghyun.

    [S#25 Juho''s Room, Night

    Gahee: Hey, why are you so down?

    Juho: Just.

    Gahee: Did ite again? That Blue Time''?

    Juho continues lying down without an answer.

    Gahee: Let''s go out. Some sunlight might make you feel a lot better.

    Juho: I prefer to stay still.

    Gahee: What''s the point of staying still?

    Juho: Just lying here. Like floating on water.

    Gahee: Continuously?

    Juho: Continuously.]

    ""

    Park Younghyun, carefully reading the script along with Yooil, unconsciously swallowed hard.

    It was his first time asking someone, a fellow actor at that, for help. He had been hesitant for a long time before sending the message, not expecting Yooil to actuallye so promptly.

    Han Yooil, who had been sitting on the floor reading the script intently for about ten minutes, suddenly stood up.

    "Shall we start?"

    "Already?"

    Yooil opened his mouth.

    "Since it''s the first time, why don''t we keep it light? I''ll treat it as if I''m seeing the script for the first time too It would be great if you could just match the lines, thinking of it as just a run-through."

    Nodding, Park Younghyuny down, pressing his back, hands, and legs t against the floor, closing his eyes as if dreaming.

    "Hey. Why are you so down?"

    Yooil''s Gahee''.

    The moment Younghyun heard that voice for the first time, he was a bit surprised.

    <i>It''spletely different.''</i>

    It was nothing like the Gahee from Preparatory Work'' 20 years ago. Just from one sentence, he could tell the differences in tone and personality.

    "Just."

    As Juho weakly responded, Gahee plopped down beside him.

    "Did ite again? That Blue Time''?"

    Juho squinted at Gahee, then closed his eyes again.

    Figures.

    Gahee sighed softly and touched Juho''s arm.

    "Let''s go out. Some sunlight might make you feel a lot better."

    Younghyun couldn''t help butpare the original Gahee with Yooil''s Gahee.

    The original Gahee was much more carefree and lively. In contrast, the Gahee'' that Yooil was portraying now was

    <i>She seems like a weary office worker.''</i>

    The way Gahee persuades Juho to go out and get some sunlight was also different. While the original Gahee had a childish, almost whiny demeanor, the Gahee now seemed more like she was offering advice.

    "Staying still is better."

    "What''s the point of staying still?"

    "Just lying here. Like floating on water."

    "Continuously?"

    Gahee asks, raising one eyebrow.

    "Continuously."

    It felt strange.

    The more the conversation continued, the more Younghyun felt as if he was insisting on something absurd.

    "That''s not me."

    When did it start?

    Younghyun forgot the original Gahee.

    "Isn''t it better to move around? Run, throw a ball It helps relieve stress."

    Younghyun slowly opens his eyes.

    And looks at Gahee.

    Gahee, who dreams of bing an actress while continuously working part-time jobs. Gahee, who takes every opportunity to audition and goes wherever directors might be

    Juho suddenly realized. Gahee was far more rational and mature than him, living in his fantasies.

    As the thought crossed his mind, frustration surged within him, unbidden.

    "It must be nice."

    His words came out tinged with sarcasm.

    "For what?"

    "To seem like you have no worries."

    The sharp retort made Juho open his eyes wide, regretting his words.

    "Why wouldn''t I have worries?"

    It was toote once he had started. Juho began to ramble his excuses.

    "No, I mean, I spend all my time worrying about this and that"

    Gahee looks down at Juho.

    Was it the lighting? Her eyes, usually a bit bright, seemed to darken.

    "You think I''m some brainless girl who doesn''t think about anything, don''t you?"

    No, that''s not it.

    Juho shakes his head frantically.

    "I''ve never thought that way"

    Is that really true?

    The expression on Juho''s face caused Gahee''s face to harden.

    "You''re doing this on purpose, aren''t you? Let''s see what happens if I push him this far, let''s see what he does if I push him further You''re just testing to see if I''ll snap, right?"

    "Why would I say something like that."

    "Am I wrong?"

    Juho couldn''t look at Gahee''s face. Her calm, urate words were too on point.

    "Yeah. You''re right."

    Suddenly.

    A surge of heat welled up deep inside him.

    "You''re pathetic. So pathetic I don''t even have words for it. Happy now?"

    It was anger. But the anger wasn''t directed at Gahee.

    The darts he threw at Gahee came back like a boomerang, striking Juho himself.

    Juho clenched his teeth, feeling a throbbing pain in his chest.

    "Senior."

    Yooil, returning to his usual tone, called out to Younghyun. The following question was unexpected.

    "How many more times should we do it?"

    "!"

    .

    .

    .

    With each practice, their characters became clearer and more distinct.

    After exchanging lines multiple times, it was nearly midnight.

    "I think I''m getting the hang of it now."

    Grrrr.

    Whether it was due to the intense focus over the hours, hunger struck them both as soon as the practice ended.

    The two agreed to keep it a secret from their trainers and ordered the newly released corn cheese chicken from a famous brand.

    As they tore into the chicken sprinkled with a sweet and salty powder, Park Younghyun still had a vacant expression on his face. Only after finishing the chicken did he finally speak up.

    "I want to ask something. When you first yed Gahee, what was going through your mind?"

    "Just like I said earlier. I treated it as if it was a script I received for the first time on set."

    Park Younghyun nodded with a subdued face. He knew there was a difference between thinking and doing. He just hadn''t done it well.

    However, his eyes widened a bit at the next words.

    "I didn''t worry about how to act or how the acting would appear."

    It was the advice Yooil had received from Brion when he first started reading the script.

    Then, thepletion rate figures that floated above the translucent window sparkled.

    Stage 3 Completion Rate: 28.1%

    "Thank you for today."

    "No, thank you. It was fun."

    It was a bit tiring, but fun, and thepletion rate had increased.

    It''s killing two birds with one stone.

    "And you don''t have to be so formal with me, senior."

    "You don''t have to call me senior either. Feel free to speak casually."

    An awkward silence followed.

    Yooil was the first to break it.

    "Then, I''ll call you hyung'' from now on."

    "Alright sure."

    It''s strange. Why does it feel even more awkward?

    As Yooil was about to leave the practice room, a low voice echoed behind him.

    "I wanted to say this during the afterparty."

    Younghyun fixed his gaze on a corner of the practice room as he continued.

    "It was good acting with you."

    * * *

    "Ah time doesn''t move."

    Lee Hyejin groaned, sprawled on the bed.

    The online fan meeting was in four days. It felt like a month had already passed!

    <i>Maybe I should check out my actor, Sha Star.''</i>

    Han Yooil still wasn''t great at taking selfies, but he was diligent inmunicating with his fans.

    [@1_and_only

    (Photo) (Photo)

    The weather is cold. Have a great day everyone!]

    <i>The day after the online fan meeting is the departure, right.''</i>

    Just thinking about Han Yooil shining on the red carpet at the Berlin Film Festival made her heart flutter.

    As Lee Hyejin was happily browsing Sha Star and BlueChat, her fingers suddenly stopped.

    [@yuuuulwife Han Yooil love you to death]

    [@yuuuulwife f*ck he gets more handsome every time I see him]

    Up to this point, it seemed like a typical Han Yooil fan ount.

    She said the same things every day.

    [@yuuuulwife What perfume does Yool use?]

    [@yuuuulwife Miss you miss you miss you]

    [@yuuuulwife When will he shoot his next project.. I must go to the afterparty for the next project]

    [@yuuuulwife Yool''s house is in XX-dong, right?]

    [@yuuuulwife Found it]

    Lee Hyejin clenched her hand tightly, feeling a chill run down her spine.

    <i>What''s with this creep?''</i>

    It was an ount with zero followers, so it wasn''t worth her attention.

    But,

    <i>Why do I feel so uneasy?''</i>

 Chapter 65:

    Chapter 65:

    Yooil had been at a Chinese restaurant with Jin Hayoung. With his schedule packed since the start of the year, from shooting to preparing for the Berlin Film Festival and a fan meeting, Yooil barely had time at home. Jin Hayoung, who teased him saying she might forget her nephew''s face at this rate, managed to catch Yooil during a rare break in his schedule for a meal near her workce.

    "Yooil, have you lost weight again?"

    Mid-bite into his jjajangmyeon (ck bean noodles), Yooil looked up, startled. He had even indulged in ate-night chicken snack with Younghyun just the night before.

    "No, I''ve been eating well these days, really."

    In fact, he had even gained 1kg.

    However, Jin Hayoung didn''t seem to hear him.

    "You''re too busy, that''s why. Keep this up and you''ll ruin your health. I''ve seen people like you before. Overwork isn''t a joke. A patient I once had"

    Here it goes again.

    Yooil listened to his aunt''s nagging, pushing more jjajangmyeon into his mouth. He didn''t mind though, he knew her concern well.

    "Yooil, where did you say you''re going after this meal?"

    "To thepany. I was supposed to go inter, but ast-minute meeting came up."

    The meeting was so sudden that Yooil had only found out about it the day before. The person he was meeting was none other than PD Yu Jihyeok.

    Yu Jihyeok, ten years ago, burst onto the scene as a rising star in the healing-entertainment field, hitting it big with seasonal variety shows like "Bright Night" and "Wee, Yard Restaurant."

    Recently, after leaving NBS and transferring to YTBC, he was continuously trying new things, practically a guaranteed sess in the entertainment industry.

    "Yu Ji?!"

    "Aunt."

    Yooil put his hand to his mouth, prompting Jin Hayoung to lower her voice.

    "That person, the famous PD, right? What kind of shooting is it? Are you, Yooil, going on something like Yard Restaurant''?"

    "Not exactly, it''s more like a cameo in a travel variety show."

    Jin Hayoung kept muttering in amazement.

    "It''s even more surprising than you being in dramas, Yooil."

    "Haha."

    While she busily ate the plump shrimp in her jjamppong (spicy seafood noodle soup), Jin Hayoung suddenly spoke up.

    "Right, I bumped into a neighbor the other day. Said they were your fan."

    "A neighbor?"

    "Yeah. A new face, apparently a student who doesn''te home often because they''re studying away."

    <i>Wait.''</i>

    "Did that person recognize you at once, Aunt?"

    "Do we look that much alike?"

    Seeing his yful aunt, even the serious Yooil had to rx his expression.

    "Are we done eating? Should we get going? And are you sure you don''t need a ride?"

    "I''ve arranged to meet my manager nearby."

    After the hearty dinner, Yooil watched as Jin Hayoung got into her car. He felt a bit concerned watching his aunt go in alone.

    I bumped into a neighbor the other day. They said they were your fan.

    <i>''</i>

    He was a public figure, an actor whose face was known, but Jin Hayoung was a civilian. And she was living a very ordinary life.

    As Yooil''s worries persisted, Brion''s voice resonated in his mind.

    At present, it is only possible to detect an intrusion by an outsider. There is an option to add an additional rm system for security.

    "An rm system."

    <i>I should think about it.'' </i>

    It seemed like a pretty good idea.

    * * *

    After sending Jin Hayoung off, Yooil, who had met with Woojin and entered thepany, immediately headed to the meeting room where PD Yu Jihyeok was waiting.

    In the meeting room, Director Jang Jaeyi was already seated. And opposite him, PD Yu Jihyeok, the second assistant director, and one writer had taken their ces.

    PD Yu Jihyeok, with his round face and boyish expression, looked remarkably youthful for someone in his fifties.

    "Ah~ Thank you. Really. You must have been surprised when we asked to meet so suddenly?"

    He said with a bright smile.

    "You''ve heard about our program, haven''t you?"

    "Of course."

    *Is This Your First Time with a Wandering Theater Group?*

    It was an entertainment show where rather older actors nned ys overseas. The actors backpacking and acting was both a healing and a fun point of the program.

    "This time, Um Jiyoung, Moon Yuhwa, Yoon Se. These three will be traveling"

    He knew from articles. All three actors, in their forties, were renowned for their distinctive acting. Yooil also liked these actors.

    "This time you''re going to Berlin, right? We''re going to Germany too. Right around the end of the film festival in Berlin~ I was wondering if you might be able to join us for just a day or two after the festival."

    PD Yu Jihyeok continued, lifting a finger.

    "And of course! We will also provide your return flight ticket!"

    Director Jang Jaeyi nced at Han Yooil. His eyes posed the question, What will you do?''

    Yooil smiled faintly. The fact that this meeting was already set up meant that thepany had also finished reviewing. They had subtly inquired about Yooil''s intentions yesterday too.

    "Yes, I would like to do it."

    An opportunity to meet such seasoned actors wasn''tmon.

    Above all, he was most attracted to the concept of a wandering theater group.

    Seeing Yooil''s answer, PD Yu Jihyeok sported a crafty bright smile. This scene was probably being recorded by a camera. It would likely be smoothly edited into the show when the members move to Berlin.

    That''s right, Mr. Yooil.

    "Ah~ Thank you! Actually, actor Hwang Yiwon had to decline due to his schedule afterward."

    After expressing his gratitude several times, PD Yu Jihyeok excused himself to prepare for departure.

    As soon as he left, Min Woojin slyly handed Yooil a sorted schedule.

    <i>Why is there so much?'' </i>

    He thought he only had to attend the film festival. Interviews were interspersed throughout, like seasoning.

    Especially on the day of the screening of *The Mysterious Garden* and the closing ceremony, the schedule was packed.

    <i>At least there''s a bit of a gap in the middle.'' </i>

    He had nned to watch many other movies at the festival.

    It seemed impossible to have as rxed a schedule as Yooil initially thought.

    * * *

    After the meeting with PD Yu Jihyeok.

    Yooil was waiting for Jang Jaeyi and the PR team to hear about the fan meeting. Focused on his phone in the meeting room, Yooil snapped back to reality when the MiTalk alert sounded.

    Park Younghyun hyung: Thanks to you, the meeting went well.

    You did well yourself, hyung.

    Park Younghyun hyung: I appreciate it.

    Park Younghyun hyung: (Bowing puppy emoticon)

    It was probably thanks to all the hard work he put into practicing.

    Han Yooil didnt insist when the grateful Younghyun offered to buy him a meal, and instead continued with his work.

    "Yooil, what are you doing?"

    Min Woojin, having nced at Yooil''s phone screen, widened his eyes in surprise.

    "Oooh~ what''s this, are you buying a house?"

    "Just looking for now. Recently, I''ve been considering it."

    "Buying or leasing?"

    "Leasing for the time being."

    He was in the midst of searching for a ce that was reasonably quiet, safe, and close to his aunt''s workce. He hadn''t looked in detail yet, but a few houses had caught his eye.

    Just then, Director Jang Jaeyi returned to the meeting room and asked with raised eyebrows.

    "Yooil, have you been working so hardtely because of the house?"

    Seeing Yooil''s expression, Director Jang Jaeyiughed out loud.

    "Just kidding! But do let me know if you need anything."

    Director Jang added that there were quite a few requests for CF shootings, suggesting they should do them when it''s convenient, without overexposing his image.

    "The problem is that Yooil doesn''t have any free time. Oh, and I meant to tell you this. Take some rest after the movie shoot."

    "Er"

    Seeing Han Yooil''s expression, Director Jang Jaeyi opened his eyes wide in a triangle shape.

    "From that expression, you were nning to take on another project right away, weren''t you?"

    "Well, that''s"

    "It''s an order from the CEO. Let Yooil have some rest. You''re starting your third year now, right?"

    ""

    Progress to Stage 3: 28.4%

    Yooil turned his eyes away from the progress percentage, forcing a vague smile.

    There''s a reason he can''t rest but there''s no way to exin it.

    "Actor! You''ve been waiting for a long time!"

    The PR team member, who hade in with Director Jang Jaeyi, took out a stack of papers.

    "Ah, this is the script for the online fan meeting."

    Yooil, looking at the script, widened his eyes. It seemed to have enough content for a medium-length film.

    "You don''t have to follow it exactly, but since it''s your first fan meeting, we made this just in case."

    ""

    Was it his imagination, or did the PR team member''s smiling eyes look particrly tired?

    "Also, we''ve collected suggestions for the fan club name on Otube, Shasta, and BlueChat. Do you want to check them out?"

    "Yes!"

    Yooil nodded eagerly, his face full of anticipation.

    However, Han Yooil had overlooked one thing.

    All those name suggestions were decided by the fans.''

    Yooil, Yooil, what are you doing?

    Yooil-topia

    One and Only

    The Only Yooil

    The Only Person in My Life

    "Ah."

    This felt just like the time he had watched a video alone with a projector during the surprise party.

    It was gratifying yet embarrassing, enjoyable yet shy, a feeling of wanting to hide but also feeling ticklish

    "Yooil, why that face? Did you eat something bad?"

    Considering that fans had written these, each one felt special and precious.

    "I really can''t decide."

    Ultimately, Han Yooil had to step back. Director Jang Jaeyi chuckled and added,

    "I knew Yooil would say that. Then we''ll just hold a meeting and put up candidates. You wont change your mindter, right?"

    "I trust Director''s judgment."

    "Oh, saying that makes me feel pressured~!"

    The atmosphere in the meeting room lightened significantly.

    Yooil began to slowly read through the script that the junior staff members of the PR team had drafted.

    <i>Introduction and Q&A, live questions Thest part is about deciding on the fan club name.''</i>

    Just as he was carefully cing the agenda of the fan meeting in his mind, it happened.

    Mr. Yooil!

    Brion''s voice, uncharacteristically loud, rang out.

    <i>Why?''</i>

    There is an emergency.

    <i>Emergency?''</i>

    The following words almost made Yooil drop the cup he was holding.

    It appears that an outsider has intruded into your house.

    "!"

    Yooil, who had been standing in a daze, quickly checked the time.

    Around this time

    <i>Its when my aunt gets off work.''</i>

    Yooil sprang up from his seat.

    His heart began to race wildly. His breathing became erratic.

    <i>Damn it.''</i>

    Seeing the sudden change in Yooil''s expression, Director Jang Jaeyi looked at him with a surprised and concerned gaze.

    "Yooil? Are you okay?"

    "I need to I need to step out for a moment."

    "What''s the matter No, go ahead. It''s alright."

    Yooil left the meeting room and immediately called Jin Hayoung.

    The person you are calling is currently unavable. After the beep, please leave a message.

    "Ah."

    For a moment, he felt as if the power to his brain had been cut off. The surrounding noise gradually became muffled.

    Yooil clenched his now cold hands to regain his senses.

    Mr. Yooil. We just received a report that the police have been dispatched to your house. The caller is

    The single thought of needing to get home overpowered everything else, to the extent that he couldn''t properly hear Brion''s voice.

    -

    Han Yooil, almost reflexively, moved his fingers to answer the ringing phone. A desperate voice came through from the other side of the phone.

    Are you Mr. Jin Hayoung''s nephew?

 Chapter 66:

    Chapter 66:

    "I''ll be right there."

    Yooil replied with a trembling voice. Before he even realized what he had said, the call had ended.

    Suddenly, people who had rushed out of the meeting room seized Yooil. Worried gazes were directed at him.

    "Yooil, what''s wrong?"

    He needed to speak.

    "Yooil! Are you okay?!"

    Yooil moved his lips. Though he was sure he had opened his mouth, no voice came out.

    Amidst the chaos, he felt a strong grip on his shoulder.

    It was Min Woojin.

    "Yooil! I''ll drive! Just tell me where to go!"

    Han Yooil managed to squeeze out a voice.

    "I think we need to go to the hospital."

    * * *

    Young Han Yooil thought to himself.

    Perhaps all of this was a dream, and if he opened the door leading to the living room, his parents might return.

    However, every time he opened the door, Yooil''s hopes were betrayed.

    Turning the doorknob only revealed an empty living room waiting for him.

    Even in his dreams, Yooil couldn''t escape the same room. The door that stood before him in reality was also there in his dreams, waiting for him.

    But each time, Yooil opened the door. Instead of the living room, he saw the jungles of South America where his parents were supposedly.

    The thick foliage and the humid air filled his lungs.

    It was a vivid dream. So realistic that it was startling each time.

    By the time he got used to the hot and humid air, he would always see the familiar backs of two people. Yooil always gazed at them as if enchanted.

    Even though he knew it was a dream.

    * * *

    Yooil forcefully turned the doorknob.

    "Yooil."

    Seeing his aunt''s face, Han Yooil gripped the doorknob even tighter.

    <i>It''s a relief.''</i>

    During the ride with Min Woojin, he had calmed down a bit.

    The CEO Jang Jaehyun had immediately arranged a private room and told him not to worry. Manager Jang Jaeyi also followed Yooil and came to the hospital.

    Jin Hayoung, on the other hand, was feeling awkward amidst all the faces.

    "How can youe here when you''re so busy"

    What Yooil heard about the incident was as follows: Jin Hayoung was about to open the door after work when she found it already open. Feeling something was amiss, she was about to call for help when someone burst out. That startled Jin Hayoung, causing her to fall.

    Just to be safe, they had conducted all possible examinations, and thankfully, it was just a minor scrape.

    "Yooil, I''m really fine~"

    Jin Hayoung continued cheerfully.

    "I threw my bag at him when he ran off, but missed! Even though I was the dodgeball queen during my high school days."

    "Aunt."

    Seeing Jin Hayoung trying to be cheerful, Yooil closed his mouth.

    "Yooil, it''s okay. Look at your cold hand."

    He had been thinking that there seemed to be more people lurking around their housetely.

    Although he hadn''t shown it, Min Woojin too seemed to be having a hard time, deliberately taking detours home.

    But he hadn''t expected something like this to happen.

    Probably because it was an old vi and a multi-family house, the security around the area wasn''t very strict.

    <i>It was careless of me.''</i>

    Jin Hayoung, wanting to be discharged immediately, had a light quarrel with Yooil but eventually agreed to just get an IV and then be discharged.

    Meanwhile, the culprit was quickly caught. Thanks to the neighborhood CCTV footage that was avable.

    The culprit was a man in his twenties, living 30 km away from Yooil''s house.

    "I should have arranged a separate amodation for you earlier I''m sorry, Yooil."

    Jang Jaeyi sighed with a troubled face.

    "Though home invasion is definitely a crime, the sentence isn''t that severe. Moreover, since it''s a first offense, even if we press charges, it''ll probably just end in a fine."

    "Yes. I''m aware."

    Min Woojin looked at Yooil with eyes more downcast than usual.

    "Yooil. That person they''re at the police station. Are you nning to go? As the manager said, it''s okay not to meet

    "I''m fine."

    <i>I have something I must say in person.''</i>

    * * *

    "Han Yooil right?"

    The police officer, seeing Yooil''s face, guided him with a cautious demeanor.

    "Over there, the person with long hair sitting on the left."

    Even while being interrogated for breaking into someone''s house, the person with long hair did not look panicked or afraid.

    "Ah it''s Yooil."

    Yooil, with a dream-like expression, pushed his phone towards the long-haired person.

    And he spoke in a voice too low for others to hear.

    "This is you, right?"

    The face of the person with long hair paled upon seeing the BlueChat ount on Yooil''s phone.

    "H-how did you"

    "I happen to have a goodwork of contacts."

    Seeing the person''s surprise, it seemed finding the owner of the BlueChat ount was not an easy task.

    Technically, it''s not contacts''.

    Yooil ignored Brion and continued.

    "Including today, you''ve been lurking around my house for a total of ten days. It''s all recorded on the CCTV."

    At those words, the long-haired person quickly shut their mouth.

    They had caught the implication in Yooil''s words.

    "I''m going to let this slide this time. But there won''t be any leniency next time."

    The long-haired person quickly nodded in response to Yooil''s words.

    ""

    It was aplex feeling.

    <i>It probably started from a mere liking.''</i>

    But

    <i>If Aunt had been harmed''</i>

    Could he have made the right judgment in that situation?

    Yooil couldn''t be sure.

    "Yooil, if you want, thepany can file aint. The notion of understanding'' a stalker fan is a story from the 2000s. Above all, it''s about your and your family''s safety."

    At Jang Jaeyi''s words, Yooil slowly opened his mouth.

    "For now."

    <i>Making noise about it won''t do any good.''</i>

    Above all, he didn''t want to cause worry for the people who cared about him.

    I will be careful to ensure nothing simr happens in the future.

    Perhaps it was just his imagination, but even Brion''s tone sounded downcast.

    The next morning, CEO Jang Jaehyun personally visited Yooil.

    This is a clear negligence on thepany''s part.

    CEO Jang''s words, about not being able to protect the privacy of their actor and offering to get Yooil a new house immediately, were met with Yooil shaking his head.

    But his insistence was not enough to ovee CEO Jang''s determination.

    Let''s do this then. The house where your aunt will stay will be on you, Yooil, and the house where you will stay will be covered by JJ Entertainment.

    Again, this is an investment.

    After more refusals that felt like it would take all night, he eventually agreed.

    It was a day that felt like a week.

    <i>Though it''s chaotic.</i>

    At least things were somewhat sorted out now.

    Until a house was secured, his aunt would stay at a close friend''s house, and Yooil (who had quite a struggle convincing Manager Jang Jaeyi and Kim Suna from offering their own homes) needed to find a temporary ce to stay as he was soon to travel abroad.

    "Feel free to use it."

    That was the reason he was currently staying at the same house as Park Younghyun.

    "The house is really nice. Very clean."

    While touring the modest 20-pyeong house with two small rooms, Yooil realized that Younghyun was an extreme modern, ck and white enthusiast.

    "My family home is in Cheongju. I''ve been independent since bing an adult."

    Park Younghyun showed him a room, iming it was a guest room. While the living room had white walls, every other room was surrounded by ck wallpaper.

    The guest room, although imed as such, seemed barely used, making one wonder if there had ever been any guests.

    "My momes over sometimes," Park Younghyun said, as if making an excuse.

    While Yooil sat quietly at a table with Younghyun, his phone rang.

    The caller was someone unexpected.

    Hyung, are you okay?

    How did he find out?

    Kim Harang''s subdued voice felt somewhat unfamiliar.

    We''ve been through a lot too. Especially when we first used our amodation, people used to stand right outside our door. So, we even stayed at our manager''s house together.

    Just the thought of it was dizzying.

    While reflecting on how being an idol was a profession full of ups and downs, Yooil slowly replied,

    "I''m okay. Things are somewhat resolved now. I''ll be moving soon too."

    Really?

    Harang quickly lightened the mood.

    You always say you''re fine, so it''s hard to know if you really are~

    And so, Kim Harang began to chew up Yooil''s time with various stories.

    <i>He''s got a lot of schedules, why isn''t he sleeping?''</i>

    It was slightly bothersome, but listening to stories unrted to today''s events made him feel a bit better.

    But Hyung!

    "Yes."

    Will there be a speed quiz or something at the fan meeting?

    The fifth item in the uing online fan meeting is a speed quiz. You need to call a friend and solve the quiz.

    Repeating what he heard from Brion, the answer came back quickly.

    I want to do that!

    "Go ahead."

    Yooil had no idea. The ripple effect this decision would bring.

    * * *

    An office worker quickly opened the door and entered the home. After hurriedly changing clothes, they settled down. The video was already queued up on OTube.

    [Han Yooil Online Fan Meeting: First Step]

    This was precisely why the office worker had dashed out of thepany like the wind.

    <i>I never thought I''d be waiting for an actor''s online fan meeting in my life.''</i>

    There was a momentary sense of reality hitting but they decided not to dwell on it.

    The main reason was the opportunity to see Yooil in real-time  whom they had only seen through a screen (although online fan meetings were technically also a screen).

    Moreover, wasn''t it said that the fan club name would be decided together with Yooil?

    Lost in thought, it soon turned 7:00 PM.

    <i>Gosh!''</i>

    The office worker turned on the recently purchased 60-inch TV with a reverent heart.

    As the saying goes, the best things should be seen on a big screen.

    Soon, Han Yooil''s face appeared on the screen.

    A white table adorned with harmoniously colorful flowers and dolls, with balloons and cards hanging in the background.

    However, what caught the attention the most was Han Yooil himself.

    As soon as the office worker saw his face, they felt the week''s stress melting away in real-time.

    <i>This is life.''</i>

    The office worker fixed their gaze on the television with a happy expression.

    Hello, I''m Han Yooil.

    Yooil!!!!!!!!!

    Skipped cram school to be here

    What''s with the sweatshirt, it''s so pretty

    Yooil was wearing a sky-blue sweatshirt with a tiny teddy bear drawn near the left chest, paired with white pants.

    <i>He looks cute.''</i>

    The office worker smiled contentedly and focused on the TV.

    Oh Wow. Already 523 people watching.

    At that moment, Yooil, looking beyond the camera, opened his mouth in surprise.

    Ah Not 523, but 5230?

    <i>Look at his expression. He really didn''t know.''</i>

    Watching Yooil widen his eyes in astonishment, the office worker burst intoughter unknowingly.

    Over five thousand people are watching this?

    His face truly depicted disbelief.

    I''m worried. It has to be fun

    Don''t worry Yooil, just seeing your face is enjoyable

    It''s fun, thrilling, the best

    What is this, Han Yooil stole myughter

    The office worker felt a sense of kinship while reading the flood of cheesyments.

    They considered writing one themselves but gave up, feeling no confidence to outdo them.

    Next I''ll pick a few questions sent by fans and answer them.

    Initially, simple questions like favorite food or ideal type came up.

    Doenjang jjigae and jjajangmyeon I like them.

    I haven''t really thought about my ideal type Oh, you want me to squeeze out an answer? Okay then.

    I''ll say someone I canmunicate well with.''

    What kind of problem is this lol

    Is this Golden Bell?

    Yooil, I''m confident we canmunicate well

    After a few questions passed, Yooil picked another one.

    The next one was an unexpected question.

    [Can you show us some impromptu acting?]

    <i>Impromptu acting, huh.''</i>

    It seemed like a tall order, but curiosity was piqued.

    After all, Han Yooil was known for his acting skills!

    The corners of Han Yooil''s mouth slightly lifted as he read the note.

    This sounds fun.

    His singlement caused the livements to explode.

    First, let''s decide on a scenario.

    Historical drama

    Act as a son!

    Let''s go sad

    Oh, historical drama sounds good

    Until this point, the office worker was merely preparing to find it cute.

    However, the moment Han Yooil, who had briefly closed and then reopened his eyes, started to speak.

    The office worker couldn''t help but drop their jaw in awe.

    ""

 Chapter 67:

    Chapter 67:

    At the same time, in a modest but well-arranged set at the mini studio of JJ Entertainment, Han Yooil''s online fan meeting was in full swing.

    The PR team assistant in charge of nning the fan meeting watched Yooil with a serious expression.

    The reaction is better than expected.''

    Although Yooil had been to film festivals and recently gained poprity, he was still considered a bit early to be called a top star''.

    Yet, the continuously increasing audience was nearing ten thousand.

    The most impressive aspect was Yooil''s hosting skills.

    <i>He''s got a good sense and there''s no awkwardness.''</i>

    Actors who focus solely on acting often neglect such aspects.

    Usually, there''s a host for offline fan meetings.

    Fan meetings hosted by actors alone often tend to drag or be dull.

    Moreover, Yooil hadn''t even experienced something like a fan meeting before. And considering the recent unfavorable events, he wouldn''t be in the best condition.

    But the assistant had not been expecting this.

    <i>This is quitemendable.''</i>

    The assistant smiled contentedly at Yooil''s smooth hosting.

    But at the same time, there was a hint of regret.

    It would have been more fun if some more mischievous questions hade up that kind of regret.

    Torn between professional spirit and concern for the actor, the assistant''s face lit up at Yooil''s next words.

    "The next question is Can you show us some impromptu acting?''"

    <i>Oh.''</i>

    There it was.

    The mischievous question!

    The assistant''s eyes sparkled as they watched Yooil. However, Yooil''s response was unexpected.

    "This sounds fun."

    <i>?''</i>

    Yooil closed his eyes briefly, took a light breath, and then opened his eyes again.

    And then, he began to speak.

    "Father."

    <i>(tl/n: He said Abamama, a call for a King father by his son/daughter in Joseon dialect)</i>

    <i>!''</i>

    It was a sigh-like call,ing from deep within.

    <i>His voice it''spletely changed?''</i>

    Not just the voice.

    Everything was different from Han Yooil''s usual expressions and acting tones.

    "Do you wish for your son to live forever in your shadow, Father?"

    Resentment and deeply suppressed sorrow became thenguage that leaked out.

    "If that is your wish, then so be it. I shall live like a rat scurrying around the marketce."

    The assistant, unknowingly, had their mouth wide open, staring at Yooil.

    Although not an expert in acting, they had heard in passing that historical dramas are challenging.

    Breathing. The breathing in historical dramas is entirely different from that in modern dramas.

    That''s the difference that divides awkwardness from naturalness.

    And Han Yooil was nailing that breathing.

    "Even for a moment, or even for a short while, could you not look at me wholly?"

    A young man dressed in in 21st-century clothes transformed into the protagonist of a Joseon dynasty tragedy in an instant.

    The assistant slowly absorbed this transformation.

    "What am I to Father?"

    Tears began to well up in Han Yooil''s eyes.

    His voice trembling, he continued,

    "Who am I"

    !

    Suddenly, the chats that seemed to have frozen for a moment started to surge crazily.

    What''s this?

    ?

    Wow

    What work is this from?!?!

    Does anyone know?

    Just watched with my mouth open

    Yooil watched the rapidly rising chat window and smiled faintly.

    At that moment, Han Yooil rified to the audience, "Ah, everyone. This line isn''t from any existing script. I just made it up on the spot"

    "!"

    The PR team staff, along with the audiencementing, were shocked.

    It was unbelievable.

    They had seen a narrative in that brief line!

    They had perceived a heart-wrenching story!

    Wow

    This can''t be real

    Seriously?!?

    Thements were a whirlpool of confusion.

    After a moment of slight chaos passed, Yooil quickly moved on to drawing hieroglyph-like things on a cake with a chocte pen and eating it.

    "The next segment is the Speed Quiz! Ah, I see many of you have been looking forward to this. Let''s not dy and get right to it."

    Yooil, smiling at the camera, started making a phone call.

    Wow! Are we starting now?

    "Yes."

    I was waiting with the members while watching, hyung!

    "You''re watching this with the members?"

    The fact that Yooil''s smile almost faltered at that moment was unknown to anyone.

    "Yes, thankfully Kim Harang has agreed to help us with the Speed Quiz today."

    Oh my

    OMG

    A

    The assistant looked proudly at the explosive chat reactions.

    Fans of ck Sea, Harang''s group, had also joined in.

    Heard our boy is appearing here

    Harang are you solving quizzes here too? Your quiz instinct never fades

    Singing in High Schoolbo

    The 1-Minute Speed Quiz'' proceeded with Yooil reading the questions and Harang answering after a brief description.

    "My favorite food is"

    Doenjang jjigae! Jjajangmyeon!

    [Doenjang jjigae]

    As Yooil flipped the sketchbook, cheers could be heard from the other end of the phone.

    Yooil and Harang started solving the quizzes at a breath-taking pace.

    "Ah, it''s an animal with a hard shell on its back"

    Turtle!

    "When eating at a Chinese restaurant"

    Pickled vegetables!

    "Instead of sses"

    Sunsses!

    "For taking notes"

    Post-it!

    Harang had rapidly answered 9 out of the 10 questions prepared by the PR team. Soon, they were on thest page.

    Upon seeing thest question, Yooil was puzzled.

    "Huh. You won''t know this one."

    Quick, quick!

    Yooil hesitantly asked the question.

    "My birthday is?"

    April 2nd!

    "How do you know that?"

    Yooil''s genuinely surprised expression marked the end of the Speed Quiz.

    "Ah It''s all done."

    What''s with their chemistry?

    Did you guys practice speed quizzes all day?

    I can''t even keep up, it went by so fast

    This is meme material

    Birthdays are amon question, so I made sure to remember!

    After a short exchange, Harang ended the call.

    "Then please give a lot of love to both me and ck Sea!"

    While being engrossed in the speed quiz, the assistant was brought back to reality by a junior employee''s nudge.

    "Assistant, look at the number of viewers right now!"

    Prompted by the whisper of the junior employee, the assistant turned their head and gasped in shock.

    <i>34,000!''</i>

    When did it reach that number?

    <i>Is it because of ck Sea?''</i>

    But that didn''t seem quite right as there were no drop-offs in viewership.

    If people came because of Kim Harang, they would normally leave right after the speed quiz. However, the number of viewers remained steady.

    "It''s nice to see everyone''s support. How did I ask Harang for help? He wanted to do it, so I dly epted."

    "How much do I bench press? That''s a secret."

    Watching Han Yooil, the assistant slowly nodded.

    <i>It''s because of Yooil.''</i>

    They had heard it was his first time doing a live broadcast like this. He seemed a bit flustered by the rapidly climbing chat at first, but now he seemed to have adapted well, freely interacting with the audience.

    <i>I didn''t know he had a talent for this too.''</i>

    Holding the audience''s attention continuously was also a realm of talent.

    .

    .

    .

    "Ah, the moment you''ve all been waiting for has arrived."

    <i>Finally.''</i>

    It was time for thest chapter of the fan meeting, Fan Club Name''.

    "Now it''s time to decide on the fan club name You all had such great ideas that it was really hard to narrow down the choices."

    Speaking honestly, Yooil then shared the names the manager Jang Jaeyi and the PR team had painstakingly shortlisted.

    Yooil, hiding his embarrassment, lifted the cards with as muchposure as he could.

    The names on the back of the cards were written in a Gothic font.

    "The first one is Yooiltopia''."

    "The second is The Only Yooil''."

    "And thest one is YooilMooyi''."

    Unexpectedly, as soon as YooilMooyi'' was revealed, the livements started exploding.

    This feels right, this is it

    If we go with thest one, is the nickname for fans Mooyi''????

    Mooyi

    Did the actor choose this himself?

    Cute

    "There''s a live poll happening on the OTube page right now, so if you could take a moment to vote ande back, that would be great."

    Yooil continued the conversation while watching the rapidly increasingments.

    Any questions he missed, Brion showed once again.

    - The question Have you decided on your next project?'' has appeared a total of 13 times.

    "My next project hasn''t been finalized yet. But I hope to bring you good news soon."

    He answered the sensitive questions about his next project as instructed by director Won Heesu.

    <i>This is fun.''</i>

    He had been nervous before starting, but once it got going, it was enjoyable. He lost track of time.

    At the same time, a small thought took root deep in Yooil''s heart.

    It would be even better to meet in person.''

    Then, the PR team staff lifted a sketchbook.

    [Please check the voting results!]

    "Ah, it seems it''s time to check the results now."

    Yooil picked up the tablet on the table.

    "The name of the fan club is"

    Han Yooil elongated his words like an MC announcing the final winner in a singer variety show.

    Drumroll

    Why am I so nervous about this?

    And as Han Yooil revealed the tablet, the reactions were prized.

    Eek!

    "YooilMooyi."

    Thus, on the evening of Han Yooil''s first fan meeting, the official name of his fan club was decided.

    * * *

    "Great work everyone!"

    "Thank you for your hard work, Actor Han!"

    The fan meeting that started at 7 PM ended at 9 PM.

    Han Yooil''s fan meeting began with around five thousand viewers but concluded with more than seven times that number, making it the most watched live event ever hosted by JJ Entertainment. As soon as the fan meeting ended, the PR team assistant couldn''t help but ask a question that had been on their mind.

    "What was that, Yooil? The thing you did during the Q&A? That historical drama! Was that impromptu acting really unrehearsed?"

    Yooil responded with an ambiguous smile.

    "Well, I did practice a bit of impromptu acting."

    He had practiced a few times with keywords thrown by Brion. He had started practicing because impromptu acting'' was among the expected questions.

    Initially, he hadn''t nned to practice long, but the more he did it, the more he felt it helped clear hisplicated thoughts, so the practice ended up being longer than anticipated.

    "So that was really a made-up line?"

    The assistant shook their head in disbelief.

    "No way, it was so good I thought it was from an actual script. Youre good at writing lines too, Yooil."

    "Not really."

    Suchpliments were always embarrassing to hear.

    After the sessful online fan meeting, Yooil returned to Park Younghyun''s house.

    He immediately called Jin Hayoung. Jin Hayoung expressed her disappointment that the name she voted for wasn''t selected.

    But the name is cute. Good job, Yooil.

    Hearing his aunt''s ever-cheerful voice, Yooil felt a sense of relief and fell asleep morefortably.

    * * *

    The next day.

    Yooil woke up early and headed to the airport with Min Woojin.

    At the airport, Yooil met Gu Chanik and Hwang Yiwon. Both had a word for Yooil after seeing his face.

    "You look particrly tired today."

    "Do you need water?"

    "I''m fine."

    After that, he slept throughout the flight and didn''t remember much.

    <i>We''ve arrived.''</i>

    Han Yooil disembarked from the ne and gradually became more alert as he felt the unfamiliar air brush against his nose.

    And thus, the busy schedule of the Berlin Film Festival began for him.

 Chapter 68:

    Chapter 68:

    Given the nature of Berlin with no direct flights, the party from "The Mysterious Garden"nded in Frankfurt and took a train to reach the hotel. By the time theypleted their check-in, it was already well past midnight.

    Rest well, we have the screening in 13 hours!

    Han Yooil faithfully followed the advice of the productionpany staff. As soon as hey on the bed, he fell asleep as if being drawn in.

    As soon as the sun rose, Yooil received makeup and changed his clothes. Hwayeon, who became Yooils personal stylist, circled around him like a sculptor creating a masterpiece, meticulously checking every detail, even the strands of hair covering his forehead. Satisfied, she eximed proudly,

    Perfect! Indeed!

    After a quick meal, Yooil, dressed in a tuxedo, joined Gu Chanik and Hwang Yiwon in the film festival''s support vehicle and set off. Red banners with bears standing up were hung around various parts of the city.

    [Internationale Filmfestspiele Berlin]

    Well be arriving soon.

    Han Yooil exchanged nces with Hwang Yiwon and let out a light sigh. As the car door opened, Han Yooil, dressed in a cobalt blue suit with his forehead partly revealed by his slightly tousled hair, stepped out of the car.

    As soon as they got out, shes began to erupt from all around. At that moment, familiarnguages reached Yooils ears as he was waving with a gentle smile.

    Hyeeeeung!

    Startled, Han Yooil turned his head. He saw people reaching out over the fence.

    Yooil!

    Its Hwang Yiwon!

    Kyaaak! So handsome!

    People of different ages and genders were gathered together, waving their hands.

    !

    Unknowingly, Yooil found himself walking towards them.

    How did youe here?

    Excitedly, the crowd responded.

    Were exchange students!

    I came for a trip!

    Weve been waiting for several hours~!

    !

    Yooil, having recently be ustomed to signing autographs, epted notebooks and postcards from the people and signed them.

    It must have been tough waiting.

    Aaack! Not at all tough!

    Of course, Yooil didnt think they were here solely because of him. After all, it was a film by Director Gu Chanik, and moreover, starring Hwang Yiwon.

    Regardless, thinking about these people standing in the chilly weather for so long made him feel uneasy.

    <i>If only there was enough time.</i>

    He bowed his head to those he couldnt sign for and quickly followed after Director Gu Chanik.

    Im sorry.

    Gu Chanik moved with a tsk sound, but thankfully, he didnt seem too upset.

    Youve be quite the star.

    Director Gu mumbled, and only Hwang Yiwon smiled subtly.

    * * *

    Inside the noisy cinema with people moving seats or arrivingte, a man walked in.

    Born in Paris and a graduate of La Fmis, the young director Philippe Sciamma, who had been wandering around Europe making films, brushed his tousled curly hair back and sat down.

    Philippe was very excited. What made his heart race was the return of Director Gu'' with a new film after a long time.

    <i>I was really curious.</i>

    Watching the movie title appear with subtitles, he soon focused on the film.

    Philippe, who watches at least one movie a day no matter how busy, nodded as Hwang Yiwon appeared in the first sequence. Hwang Yiwon had appeared a few times as the lead in Korean films he had seen.

    <i>That actor looks quite familiar.</i>

    Drenched in rain, Hyukjin (Hwang Yiwon), wearing a suit, stopped in front of a small store.

    A flower shop that had already gone out of business.

    It was a flower shop with no fancy sign or interior. But strangely, Hyukjin couldnt take his eyes off it.

    Staring through the ss door at the crushed fog flowers on the floor, he slowly shifted his gaze.

    [For Rent: 010-XXXX-XXXX]

    As he stared intently at the note on the door, the first scene ended.

    As the subsequent scenes showing the passage of time went by.

    The scene of Hyukjin opening the flower shop appeared. Familiarly, he brought loads of flowers from the flower market and arranged them, passing by in a montage.

    As Hyukjin was examining a red anemone, the door opened with a clear bell sound.

    Are you looking for a part-timer here?

    A somewhat awkward yet confident young man appears.

    * * *

    Philippe was watching the movie with a slightly deted expression. It was because he couldn''t see any of Director Gu''s signature style he had been anticipating. However, separate from his dissatisfaction, the film was quite engaging. The story unfolded at a pace that was neither too slow nor too fast. But then, the film reached a scene where Sooilshes out at a friend who came to visit him. That was the moment. The expression on Philippe''s face, which had been indifferent due to the rather in story, started to change gradually. The expression of Sooil, the young man conversing with his friend, was extraordinary. He wasn''t the rxed and approachable figure he was when working at the flower shop.

    Go away.

    He looked like a child wishing to disappear from the world.

    From that moment on, Philippe''s gaze continually followed Sooil''s expressions. The actor ying Sooil was fascinating to watch. Even in the same cut, the tone, gaze, and facial muscles subtly changed every moment. All of these elements worked together like intricately aligned gears.

    <i>That actor must have calcted every second for this performance.</i>

    Such a performance couldn''te without it. But what was peculiar was that these calctions weren''t noticeable at all. All those detailed elements were as natural as breathing or moving a finger. Philippe was fully engrossed in the film, his body glued to the chair. Before he knew it, the film was nearing its end.

    I wanted to ask you when we met.

    Don''t speak.

    But I''m okay now.

    Sooil, who was bleeding from his mouth, managed to smile. The young man who suffered from knowing too much is dying. Amongst the withering flowers of various colors, Philippe bit his lip without realizing it as he watched Sooil die. A terribly beautiful sequence. Its beauty paradoxically made the young man''s death seem inevitable and fated, like Ophelia''s death in Hamlet.

    It''s cold.

    Then, the flowers begin to move. Philippe, who thought the film was about to end, widened his eyes. It wasn''t just movement. The withered flowers among the broken bottles miraculously came back to life as if someone had hit the rewind button. Was this Sooil''s illusion, Hyukjin''s, or the flower shop that harbored them? It was unclear, but the unexpectedness made the sight even more impressive. Then, a close-up of Sooil''s eyes fills the giant screen. Along with the reflection of the flowers in Sooil''s eyes, his weary voice is heard.

    You see that It''s not just in my eyes, right?

    Instead of answering, Hyukjin reaches out to touch the newly blooming flowers in front of him.

    <i>So that''s why those cuts were included.</i>

    Philippe nodded. He understood why the inserts of flowers swaying in a windless room were needed. At that moment, Sooil''s voice resonates. The words he whispered to the flowers, unbeknownst to anyone.

    I wish.

    A wish unheard by even Hyukjin, let alone the audience.

    I wish I could go back to when I knew nothing.

    The flowers, the sole listeners to that wish, fill the screen. And then, fade out. While all the audience holds their breath looking at the screen, Hyukjin opens his eyes. He realizes he is standing in a funeral home. There, with a face young enough to be just a middle schooler, is Sooil. Hyukjin is drawn towards him as if bewitched.

    Are you a friend of my dad?

    At Sooil''s innocent question, Hyukjin shakes his head.

    I came to see you. There''s something I wanted to tell you.

    He slowly ces his hand on Sooil''s head. And then he speaks. As if reciting a spell.

    From now on you dont need to find answers to every problem.

    Even if there are answers to the problems?

    Not all answers will make you happy.

    The boy doesn''t respond easily.

    Hyukjin knows how smart and bold this boy is.

    That''s why he decides to wait patiently, confident that he won''t be surprised by any answer.

    But you can''t always be happy, right?

    Hearing the boy''s response, Hyukjin lets out a hollowugh.

    It''s only now that Hyukjin realizes.

    He must have given this kind of answer countless times, maybe even dozens of times.

    Yet, he speaks again.

    Then, do as you wish.

    I''ll be waiting.

    The young Sooil looks up at Hyukjin with an inscrutable expression.

    As the credits roll up apanied by music imbued with quiet, deep sorrow, apuse fills the cinema.

    A few people quickly stand up. Triggered by them, reporters and spectators who were there for coverage begin to rise too.

    Director Gu Chanik and the cast also stand up and bow several times to the audience, seemingly not expecting the standing ovation.

    Philippe was among those sending a standing ovation.

    Yet, even as he pped, he felt a tinge of unease.

    Looking at the movie itself

    Yes, it was good. The craftsmanship and direction were wless.

    <i>Still, I can''t say it waspletely satisfying.</i>

    Fans of Director Gu''s work would inevitably feel a pang of disappointment.

    Until eight years ago, Gu Chanik made films that were far from traditional narratives. The deliberately fragmented characters and settings disruptedfortable viewing, but Philippe liked the ambiguous and unfriendly world created by Gu Chanik. He was always ready to dive into that sea of leaps as willingly as a fish.

    <i>If I had watched this film without knowing the directors name, I would never have thought it was a work of Gu.</i>

    Philippe swallowed hisplex emotions, waiting for their conversation.

    Soon, the director and two actors joined the host and interpreter on stage. The host lightened the mood with some casual conversation before starting with the questions.

    This film seems quite different from your previous works, what do you think about that?

    Well thats a tough one.

    After a small cough, Gu Chanik continued slowly.

    As you know, the era of film movies has passed. It''s been quite a while since movies in Korea stopped being shot on film. I, too, started making movies by cutting and splicing film. The end of the film era was a big wound a loss for me. Many have embellished my movies withplex words, but in truth, the movies I made are like a grown child who cant let go of their mother. Thement of an old man who can''t forget the past and a film director.

    It was an unexpected answer.

    The young French director adjusted his posture.

    Even those who were looking at the floor or ceiling turned their gaze to the stage, captivated by the candid story about his films from the veteran director from the East.

    Yes. Movies are ament for me. In that sense, this movie is also in the same vein. You might think itspletely different on the surface but I dont think so.

    Gu Chaniks voice resonated in the quiet cinema.

    Some of you here might know. After my daughter died, I couldnt make films for a while. I couldnt let go of her.

    <i>Ah.</i>

    Philippe unwittingly let out a sigh.

    But the moment I read the script written by my daughter, I understood. This was thement she left behind. Except for the fact that the subject of thatment was me, it''s not much different from my previous works. I think my answer might be too long for the question.

    Oh, not at all, Gu. It was a beautiful and profound story. Thank you for sharing.

    After that, the atmosphere became more serious, and the Q&A continued. A few questions and answers were exchanged, and someone raised their hand to ask a question.

    The acting of the two lead actors was impressive, especially the actor who yed the role of Sooil. I understand hes a neer. How did youe to cast him? Was there something special?

    To be honest, Im not a director who expects a lot from actors.

    Director Gu Chanik continued without any change in his expression.

    But it was different this time.

    Oh, really? How was it different?

    Thats something this guy will exin.

    And then, Gu Chanik passed the microphone he was holding to the side.

    <i>!</i>

    Yooil, who suddenly received the microphone, looked around the audience with a bewildered face.

    Hundreds of pairs of eyes were focused solely on him.

    Um

    After pondering for a moment, Han Yooil began to speak.

    When I first met the director, he told me he disliked teen stars''. And when we parted that day, he entrusted me with the lead role.

    Wow!

    I guess he thought I was not like typical teen stars.

    A quietughter spread through the audience. Yooil, with a faint smile, continued.

    Its all thanks to the director''s faith in me.

    It was a statement loaded with undeniable, profound sincerity.

    There were a few more questions, but due to the tight schedule, the answers had to be brief.

    Ah, its already thiste. As it''s thest one, Ill ask. Please be honest. Do you have anyints or requests for the director, Han?

    The host winked, implying the conversation wouldnt leak, even though it was clear that the reporters present had been taking notes since the screen rose, so whatever was said wouldnt remain secret.

    Yooil looked at the sparkling eyes gazing at him.

    In this situation, he decided to answer honestly.

    There is a smallint.

    Oh! What is it?

    Han Yooil replied with a slight frown.

    You said theres a delicious pho restaurant in Berlin, but you still havent told me the name of the ce.

    What!

    The hostughed heartily, makingments like, Gu, it seems your actor is full ofints, what will you do?

    The screening ended in a cheerful atmosphere.

    <i>* * *</i>

    The next day at lunch.

    Yooil finally got to visit the rumored pho restaurant. It was a ce with a striking red sign and a terrace.

    Hwang Yiwon ordered a bibim sd noodle, and Gu Chanik ordered beef pho. Yooil ordered the same as Gu Chanik.

    You made a good choice.

    Yooil waited for the food while setting the table and looking around. The interior of the restaurant was bustling with office workers and tourists.

    Although he felt sorry for Director Gu, Yooil was wondering how tasty the pho could be.

    But the moment he took his first bite, he realized he had been very wrong.

    !

    The warm, savory taste with a hint of umami tantalized his taste buds. The crunchy bean sprouts and the thick, tender meat, along with the perfectly cooked noodles, were a perfect harmony.

    Director Gus words were no lie.

    Its really delicious, Director.

    Gu Chanik grumbled as if saying, Would I lie to you, but the corners of his lips slightly curled up.

    Hwang Yiwon also emptied his bowl with a satisfied face.

    The three left the restaurant patting their full bellies.

    I never thought Id find a pho hotspot in Berlin.

    Its a city of immigrants, after all.

    Hwang Yiwon, having said that, nced at Director Gu and then whispered that he personally preferred kebabs bought from the street.

    Once you have a doner kebab here, youll think about it from time to time.

    That was the moment.

    A man in his mid tote 30s with curly hair had been following them.

    <i>Who is he?</i>

    His face was familiar. He was the one who sat at the diagonal table in the pho restaurant.

    The man asked in English with a unique ent.

    You are Director Gu, right?

 Chapter 69:

    Chapter 69:

    Gu Chanik shook hands with the man, showing a pleasantly surprised recognition.

    Philippe Sciamma. A French film director. He won the Screeny Award at the Berlin Film Festival two years ago.

    <i>!</i>

    Yooil, taken aback by the new information, briefly paused before Philippe naturally wedged himself into the conversation between the three, beginning to show tremendous affinity.

    I remember seeing you in Berlin before.

    Yes, that''s right! Its an honor to meet like this.

    Philippe shook hands with Hwang Yiwon, speaking cheerfully.

    Nice to meet you. Im Philippe Sciamma. I was very impressed by

    .

    With slightly widened eyes, Hwang Yiwon nodded and replied in fluent English.

    You''ve seen that? Its quite an old movie.

    Looking for good movies is my only hobby.

    While chatting with Hwang Yiwon, Philippe kept ncing at Yooil and eventually started staring at him. Yooil felt a bit flustered under his prating hazel eyes.

    Philippe stepped forward towards Han Yooil and spoke.

    Sorry but how exactly should I pronounce your name? Wi, Il Wueil?

    Its Yooil.

    Yooil quickly added,

    But feel free to call me whatever isfortable for you.

    Oh I see. Sorry. Yool.

    Its a nickname now.

    <i>Dont say unnecessary things.</i>

    Are you all attending the after-party tonight?

    Philippes question prompted Brion to add an exnation.

    It seems to refer to the Berlin Film Festival after-party starting this evening at Bar Jeder Vernunft.

    The party was known for its unique sophisticated design and sponsored by the high-end fashion brand GuX.

    Catching Yooils gaze, Director Gu Chanik shook his head and muttered,

    shing lights and noise, not really my cup of tea.

    <i>Hmm.</i>

    The director prefers a quiet rest, Han Yooil diplomatically conveyed Gu Chanik''s sentiments, to which Philippe eximed disappointedly,

    No way. DJ Niki and Lyn Kim will be there tonight!

    I heard that person was retiring.

    Surprisingly, it was Hwang Yiwon who responded.

    Wow, you know about Lyn Kim? But she didnt retire! Kim started releasing albums against year. Theyre really cool wait, let me show you.

    Lyn Kim is a Korean DJ and electronic music producer with a career spanning about 20 years.

    As Brion exined, Hwang Yiwon and Philippe Sciamma were already sharing their favorite Lyn Kim tracks, seeming quite close.

    The sun, which had been high in the sky, was now gradually setting. It was due to the long walk they had taken, covering ces like Berliner Dom and Checkpoint Charlie.

    We better not bete.

    Hwang Yiwonsment was met with a nod from Yooil. Philippe seemed reluctant but soon smiled.

    Well then, it was a pleasure.

    See you at the party.

    Salut!

    With a bright smile, Philippe waved his hand, watching the backs of the three filmmakers from Korea until they disappeared from sight. The faint smile on his face gradually deepened.

    Just then, Philippe''s phone rang.

    A.B: How''s it looking? Think it''ll work out?

    Receiving the text, Philippe replied with a smirk.

    Of course. Dont you trust me?

    A.B: (sigh emoji)

    Philippe casually brushed off the response and continued on his way.

    * * *

    Meanwhile, in a Seoul boarding house.

    HM, forced into a semi-mandatory SNS detox due to impending exams, could only indulge in the modern marvel of a smartphone once a week. That was why HM was btedly catching up on Han Yooils online fan meeting.

    <i>I missed it</i>

    HM clenched her fist tight enough to pop a vein. Eyes moistening with regret, HM was seriously considering attending Han Yooils offline fan meeting if it ever happened.

    <i>Even they talked with Harang and yed speed quizzes</i>

    HM should have been there to see it live!

    Swallowing tears, HM joined the newly created YooilMui'' (Only Yooil) fan cafe. But soon, they hit an unexpected roadblock.

    <i>I have to visit for ten more days to see the posts.</i>

    At this rate, HM wouldn''t be able to be a regr member until after the exams.

    Resigned, HM started scouring the inte, hoping to grasp any scrap of information to alleviate the frustration.

    Han Yooil in Berlin yesterday (photos included)

    [(Photos) (Photos) (Photos)

    It was the day of the first screening of <The Mysterious Garden>]

    That cobalt blue suit, damn; it suits him so well.

    Ive never seen anyone pull off that color so well any other celebs who can?

    True

    Twinkie Hyena

    Jung Suho he wore cobalt blue for his recent y

    All famous white as snow

    The vibe is unreal crazy even the slightly overcast weather is a perfect match

    At this point, isnt Berlin Han Yooils personal color?

    Deep into reading thements, HM stumbled upon another post.

    This time it was a thread with a Shasta screenshot from someone who met Han Yooil in person at the Berlin Film Festival.

    The actor who talked to and signed autographs for each Korean fan on the red carpet

    [(Photos) (Photos) (Shasta screenshot)

    = Han Yooil]

    Crazy look at that close-up shot

    Wow, the selfie and this feel totally different? Maybe the rear camera suits him better

    No.. its because Yool''s a selfie god

    Ah

    What''s with this red carpet vibe, suddenly feeling flustered;;

    True.. I only saw him acting in school uniforms, thought he was a baby

    Hes a 23-year-old veteran, not a baby..

    Just a passerby in their 2n''s getting hurt

    But really, the styling makes such a difference

    Amazing

    Anyway, the guy who got the autograph looks so happy

    Jealous,,

    I went into his Shasta, and Han Yooil kept asking if they were cold,,

    Guilty as charged

    222222

    After spending a while chasing after Han Yooils updates, HM clenched her teeth. Determined that if she passed the civil service exam, she would devote herself to fandom with all her might.

    * * *

    While Yooil and Hwang Yiwon were exploring Berlin with Gu Chanik, Min Woojin, Haeyeon, and a few JJ Entertainment staff members, along with Hwang Yiwons dedicated team and <The Mysterious Garden> production staff, were spending their time resting and meeting at the hotel.

    As soon as they returned to the hotel, the hectic makeup session began.

    Min Woojin grabbed Yooils arm and eximed,

    Yooil! Stand tall, never let your spirit falter!

    After shouting, Woojin let go of his arm. The area where his hand had been was damp with sweat. Haeyeon, seeing this, tried to punch Woojin in the sr plexus, causing a minormotion.

    Yooil looked at his reflection in the mirror. This time, he wore a deep green jacket with a logo pattern and an ivory shirt underneath.

    You look good in anything but youre a perfect match with GuX, Actor!

    With encouragement from Haeyeon and Woojin, Yooil left the room after a brief interview with Hwang Yiwon in the hotel and headed to the location of the after-party.

    The front of the bar was already swarming with reporters and fans.

    <i>Its noisy.</i>

    It was a morous and chaotic space. Faces familiar yet nameless, and people whose names were known but faces unfamiliar, mingled together.

    Hwang Yiwon, along with the head of the productionpany, headed somewhere, leaving Yooil with a reminder not to drink too much.

    <i>Probably going to talk about the next project.</i>

    Yooil sipped a sweet cocktail, surveying the surroundings.

    He had never been to a club before, so his only impressions were from snippets in movies and dramas. The thumping beat that made his head ring, the intense light from colorful strobes, and the fog machines.

    Even without being intoxicated, he felt slightly dizzy.

    He intended to be a wallflower, but he unintentionally kept receiving inquiries.

    Are you an actor?

    Ah, perhaps from Director Gus?

    Wow! Youre the boy from <The Mysterious Garden>, arent you?

    Brion kept adding brief exnations about the people Yooils gaze met.

    Ellen Garel. A sought-after cinematographer in Hollywood recently.

    Nacho Patino. A film director from Spain, awarded a special mention three years ago.

    As he was absorbing this information, a familiar nickname was called out.

    Yool!

    Turning his head, Philippe, whom he had met just a few hours ago, was there.

    But the people apanying him were extraordinary.

    Amy Baumbeck. A director and screenwriter from NYU, who won the Screeny Award at the Academy Awards 5 years ago with <The Sea Where the Pearl was Lost>.

    David Ferguson. An actor and singer, and the lead in Amy Baumbecks <The Sea Where the Pearl was Lost>.

    "Philippe."

    "Wow~ I almost didn''t recognize you, Yool!" Philippe, who had been in casual denim and a hoodie earlier, was now dressed in a neat purple shirt and a ck jacket.

    "You''re the lead in thistest film by Director Gu, right?" Amy Baumbeck, with her long Rasta hair, extended her hand towards Yooil. Her white teeth sparkled as she smiled under the lights. After briefly introducing Amy and David, Philippe led Yooil away from the speakers to a quieter spot.

    It was only then that Yooil''s head started to feel a bit clearer.

    "I was surprised at the screening yesterday. Your performance was impressive."

    This was the first thing David said to Yooil after the introductions.

    "Thank you."

    "Have you been acting for long?"

    "Two years I see. So, have you studied acting at an academy or something simr?"

    "Was the shooting period long?"

    A confusing mix of ice-breaking and interviewing passed by.

    "Anyway, it''s nice to meet you. I really enjoyed <The Sea Where the Pearl was Lost>."

    "Oh, thank you."

    Amy chuckled lightly and then gestured towards Philippe and David.

    "We''ve be close after working together a few years ago. These two helped me a lot when I was in a tough spot."

    She yfully grimaced and wiggled her fingers.

    "Actually, we''re currently scouting candidates for a project."

    "Candidates?"

    "We''re nning to shoot a short film during the festival! It''s A and my idea."

    Philippe quickly interjected, and Amy added,

    "It''ll only take a day or two at most. We''re doing it just for fun."

    Philippe mentioned he had a camera and Amy had recording equipment, implying they could shoot a short film. A camera and a recording device. It was a light and minimalistic shooting setup,pletely different from the sets Yooil had been on.

    "Have you decided on the candidates''?"

    "Well, we have to convince them now."

    Yooil, watching Amy, Philippe, and David exchange nces, furrowed his brows in puzzlement.

    <i>Is convincing actors that difficult?''</i>

    Yooil slowly spoke up.

    "Wouldn''t anyone in acting be interested in trying it at least once? It sounds like a fun project."

    "Really?" Amy''s face lit up. As he thought her expression was overly bright, she spoke up.

    "Then let''s do it together, Yool!"

    "?"

    Amy extended her hand towards Yooil.

    "I''d really like you to be the lead for it."

 Chapter 70:

    Chapter 70:

    <i>I didn''t expect this development.</i>

    Amy said with a sparkle in her teeth.

    "You did say that anyone who acts would want to try everything, right?"

    Yooil realized as he saw the triumphant glint in Philippe''s eyes.

    That him calling his name was also to suggest this.

    What will you do?

    <i>What will I do?''</i>

    Of course, it was appealing.

    Although there were parts that concerned him.

    "My English may not be perfect for acting."

    "No! It''s good enough as it is!"

    Philip eximed. Brion quietly added.

    Don''t worry. Brion is always here to help with natural trantions, Mr. Yooil.

    It didn''tpletely erase his worries, but.

    "Alright."

    Amy and Philippe cheered with a high five, and David smiled, patting Yooil''s shoulder.

    Thus, Han Yooil joined an unexpected project.

    Though it was more like notifying his agency than asking, the response from CEO Jang was concise.

    Sounds fun.

    Gu Chanik and Hwang Yiwon, having heard the story, also showed interest.

    The next day, Yooil left the hotel with the in support of the old director and the senior actor.

    On his way to the cafe, the designated meeting ce, Brion continued exining.

    This project seems simr to the work method of Jacques Rivette.

    <i>Jacques Rivette?''</i>

    A French film director and critic, a key figure in the Nouvelle Vague.

    Nouvelle Vague.

    A new wave that emerged in France in the 1950s.

    ording to Brion, Jacques Rivette often wrote scripts with his actors. The production process was often improvisational, and it wasmon to shoot films even without apleted script.

    Hearing the name of the Nouvelle Vague director from Yooil, Amy said cheerfully.

    "That''s urate, Yool. I''ve always wanted to shoot a small movie like that."

    She added that since it''s not a feature film, there''s no need to write the script on paper.''

    The shooting location was the terrace of the cafe they met at.

    A scene without a script or a storyboard.

    A shoot that was truly a nk te, with only the location and a rough situation decided.

    Next to Amy Baumbeck, who held a heavy camera, Philippe wore a headset, holding the recording equipment.

    "Ok, shall we start?"

    Han Yooil closed his eyes.

    He thought of a character he had pondered overst night.

    And slowly opened his eyes.

    * * *

    Meanwhile, David was curious.

    A young actor from Korea.

    Neither formally trained in acting nor particrly experienced.

    But how could he act like that?''

    Especially the expression he showed when he was dying in The Mysterious Garden'' was still vivid in his mind.

    "Action!"

    With that call, David cleared all thoughts and slowly approached Yooil sitting on the terrace.

    Han Yooil satfortably, crossing his legs and looking at a distant mountain, tapping the table with the index finger of his right hand, and his left hand was casually resting on the back of the chair.

    "May I sit here? I don''t have much time until my train."

    Yooil looked up at David''s face and slowly nodded.

    "Of course."

    "Are you a student?"

    "No."

    "Then, traveling?"

    Yooil narrows his brows and lifts the corners of his mouth, pondering briefly.

    "Perhaps."

    "Perhaps"

    David chews on Yooil''s words and nces at Han Yooil. He is still tapping the table with his fingers. There''s a rxed ease about him, devoid of the excitement'' typical of a traveler in a strange ce.

    David looks around for a moment.

    "Have you ordered?"

    "Yes. I ordered the most famous tea in this ce."

    Han Yooil carefully picks up a teacup from the table and hands it to David.

    As David looks at his face and absentmindedly reaches out to take the tea, he hesitates.

    There was nothing in Yooil''s hand that imed to have ordered tea.

    ""

    Only then does David realize that there was never anything on the table from the start.

    With just his gestures, Han Yooil had seeded in deceiving him.

    <i>Oh no.</i>

    David quickly hides the surprise that surfaces.

    Han Yooil, with a facepletely oblivious to any oddity, extends his hand once again towards David.

    "It''s alright, try it."

    Amy, observing them through the camera, smiles.

    A man drinking invisible tea.

    A character with a gentle and calm appearance, doing inexplicable actions.

    It''s hard to tell whether he''s teasing David on purpose, or if he truly believes he''s drinking'' tea, so skillfully deceptive he is.

    David takes the invisible tea from Yooil and takes a sip.

    Joy flickers in Yooil''s dark brown eyes.

    "How is it, tastes good, right?"

    "Not bad."

    The two continue a light and superficial conversation.

    Raw, unrefined emotions pop up, and dialogues and expressions, as if freshly caught, move vividly, captured by the camera.

    Then, suddenly, Yooil opens his eyes.

    His deep, inscrutable eyes stare intently at David.

    "May I ask you for a favor?"

    "If it''s something I can do."

    David responds cautiously. Then, Han Yooil slowly speaks.

    "If it''s alright, could you kill me?"

    !

    It was a request as mundane and polite as Could you pass me that napkin, please?'' or Could you pick up that piece of paper for me?''

    Seeing his smooth and warm smile, David feels a chill.

    He wants to run away.

    To leave this ce immediately.

    But along with that thought, a contradictory desire writhes within.

    "Why would you ask for such a favor?"

    He finds himself asking the question involuntarily.

    Like a fly stepping into a sweet-scented trap.

    He couldn''t cut off his curiosity about the man sitting in front of him.

    Amy tightens her grip on the camera she''s holding.

    And slowly zooms in on Han Yooil''s face.

    * * *

    Passersby nce at Yooil and David sitting at the cafe terrace.

    Some even stop in their tracks to observe them.

    Min Woojin was also there.

    <i>I was worried''</i>

    He suddenly realized.

    At least when ites to acting, there was no need to worry about Han Yooil.

    Min Woojin stood quietly until the filming was over.

    That''s when it happened.

    "Wow this is amazing, really."

    Min Woojin, staring at Han Yooil with a dazed expression, was startled by the Koreannguage heard too closely and turned his head.

    "Did you get everything from the beginning, Director Min?"

    "Yeah, good. Though the angle is a bit disappointing."

    "The PD must really like it, right?!"

    Seeing them, Woojin''s mouth slightly opened.

    <i>Why are they here?''</i>

    They were the team from Wandering Theater: The First Time''.

    The second PD from thest meeting was there, along with the assistant writer and what seemed to be the director of photography, filming Yooil with a camera.

    The smile faded from Min Woojin''s face. He stiffened his lips and approached them.

    "You''re the Wandering Theater team, right?"

    The three looked startled by the sudden appearance of Min Woojin.

    "I am the manager of actor Han Yooil. I believe this filming was not pre-discussed."

    "Ah, ah! Hello"

    Receiving the uneasy gaze of the assistant writer, the second PD adjusted her sses and showed a flustered smile.

    <i>Damn, caught red-handed.''</i>

    The second PD of Wandering Theater: The First Time'' could boast a mental fortitude that never panicked in any situation.

    The sociability to drink with strangers, the wit to get snacks from an angry grandfather, the resilience tough off losing all the games prepared for over a month due to heavy rain.

    All these elements were the reason she had climbed up to be the second PD after working for several years on variety shows with PD Yu Jihyeok.

    However, now, facing the angry bear-like manager of Han Yooil, the second PD was unusually flustered.

    It was her fault for filming without thinking it through.

    <i>But!''</i>

    This was something she couldn''t help but capture!

    Any PD would have done the same. PD Yu Jihyeok would praise her for a year if he saw this clip.

    At first, when Yu Jihyeok mentioned Han Yooil as a surprise cameo, he was slightly skeptical.

    <i>A bit weak.''</i>

    She had asionally heard that he was a good actor. But she hadn''t seen his ys or dramas due to her schedule, so Han Yooil wasn''t apelling choice for her.

    But the moment she saw this she realized.

    There was no actor better suited for the Wandering Theater.

    Especially if this scene made it into the trailer

    <i>It''s perfect.''</i>

    She could already envision a trailer that would capture public attention.

    "We''re really, really sorry for not consulting you in advance. We were just walking around to shoot some B-roll and just by chance! Really, by chance, we saw Mr. Yooil and it was too"

    The second PD filtered out some vehement words before continuing.

    "Perfect. We were about to contact you right after filming. It would be ruder to interrupt while Mr. Yooil was filming."

    Seeing Min Woojin''s slightly rxed expression, the second PD forcibly suppressed her smile.

    <i>Done.''</i>

    She continued with the most pitiful look she could muster.

    "We''ll really work hard on the editing. I guarantee, when this variety show airs, the response will be really good!"

    Although her expression was somewhat artificial, her words were sincere.

    Min Woojin, after a moment of contemtion, replied in a softened tone.

    "Then I''ll ask Yooil first and contact the agency."

    "Thank you!"

    The second PD bowed several times, sending Woojin off.

    "What if it doesn''t work out, PD?"

    "Don''t worry, just tell the team to focus on making a great trailer."

    Years of experience whispered to her.

    This will work.''

    The second PD picked up her phone with a bright face.

    * * *

    "Cut!"

    At the director''s call, Yooil slowly opened his eyes.

    Amy Baumbeck''s ck eyes, holding the camera close, were intently fixed on Yooil.

    ""

    She stared at Yooil silently for a while.

    Han Yooil felt refreshingly good for the first time in a while.

    If the script made the path, directing was about polishing and leading that path, and the actor had to walk that path as urately and fittingly'' as possible.

    But today was different.

    Everywhere his feet touched became the path. The camera captured every moment of running, rolling, and falling on it.

    He felt like a racehorse running on a track without hurdles.

    Completion Rate of Phase 3: 30%

    Just as he noticed the increasedpletion rate, Woojin called him.

    "Yooil."

    "Yes?"

    After hearing Min Woojin''s words, Yooil first asked the three who had been filming the movie with him.

    "It''s fine. We were going to upload this video on OTube anyway."

    A cool reply followed by a warm expression of gratitude.

    "Yool, thank you for joining us. I really mean it."

    "I should be the one thanking you."

    After the filming, David, who had been sitting quietly, slowly stood up. He looked somewhat dazed.

    "What character were you thinking of when you acted that out?"

    Yooil slowly opened his mouth.

    Hearing Yooil''s response, David''s eyebrows raised.

    "I see."

    He looked relieved, as if he had solved aplex problem.

    "It was a good experience."

    "That''s what I wanted to say."

    Hearing Yooil''s words, David responded with a bittersweet yet affectionate smile.

    It was a smile reminiscent of Berlin.

    * * *

    At the same time,

    Lee Hyejin couldn''t contain her excitement, holding her phone.

    Naturally, Han Yooil was on her phone screen. She was watching the full version of an online fan meeting video, which she had seen multiple times.

    <i>It never gets old.''</i>

    Yesterday, there was a new post on Han Yooil''s Shasta.

    [@1_and_only

    (Photo) (Photo) (Photo) Mooyi-nims, take care of yourselves and stay healthy!]

    Mooyi nim''.

    Mooyi'' as in sir''!

    Lee Hyejin groaned and hit her nket roughly.

    The photos Yooil posted were very Han Yooil'' too. Berlin Dome against a cloudless blue sky, an open-air caf terrace, and a mirror selfie taken in a hotel thankfully, it was better than just a selfie.

    After looking at the photos for a while and browsing the fan club, Lee Hyejin btedly switched to BlueChat.

    <i>?!''</i>

    Her scrolling finger suddenly stopped on the BlueChat feed.

    "!$%#$%@!!"

    Lee Hyejin screamed and jumped up from her seat.

    <i>Is this real?''</i>

 Chapter 71:

    Chapter 71:

    Lee Hyejin pressed the phone screen with trembling hands.

    [@dwfgwWs OMG, Yooil met with the Wandering Theater team? (Screenshot of the post)]

    The captured post was a sighting report uploaded on amunity forum.

    <i>Gosh!''</i>

    Zooming into the blurry photo from the post, Lee Hyejin gasped.

    Though taken from a distance and blurry, the side profile was unmistakably Han Yooil.

    [@yuulll_33 Is it real that Han Yooil is joining Wandering Theater???]

    [@asdfew OMG I heard Um Jiyoung, Moon Yuhwa, and Yoon Se are in it too]

    [@dbdlf_fgdsecd Never thought of thisbo OMG]

    [@jfdrr Wandering Theater + UmMoonYoon and now Yooil OMG]

    [@yuulll_33 Can''t wait, seriously,,,]

    Holding her phone with an excited face, Lee Hyejin forgot all about her ruined course registration.

    The filming had just begun, and it would be a while before the broadcast

    <i>I can''t wait to watch it.''</i>

    Recently, Lee Hyejin learned that even waiting could be a driving force in life.

    It was the first realization she had as a Mooyi.

    * * *

    "Great work, Mr. Actor!"

    Han Yooil also bowed deeply in response.

    Like the first screening, the closing ceremony also passed in a whirlwind.

    Hours of makeup, several interviews, and the shes that came with it  the film festival went by in a sh.

    Yooil saw off Gu Chanik and Hwang Yiwon as they returned to Korea.

    Take care in your filming, Yooil. Let''s go fishing together if we match schedules next time.

    See you back in Korea.

    And now, Yooil was at the lodging arranged by the <Wandering Theater: The First Time> team.

    Comefortably, reallyfortably!

    Reassured by those words, Yooil was a bit taken aback upon arriving at the lodging.

    "Oh my~ Yu PD, did you get us this friend?"

    "How old are you? Look at that skin, so fair~"

    "My daughter is such a big fan~ I''m so thrilled to meet you~"

    Han Yooil was surrounded by three actors, sitting on the couch.

    The bouquet and cake Yooil had prepared were barely noticeable amid thevish food prepared by the <Wandering Theater> production team.

    <i>They seemed so charismatic on screen.''</i>

    Um Jiyoung with her short, sharp haircut and piercing eyes, often ying intellectual roles. Moon Yuhwa, famous for her natural curly hair,rge eyes, and a slightly angr jaw, known for her unique roles. Yoon Se, who debuted as Miss Korea but immediately gained the title of a serious actor after her first work.

    These were actors one wouldn''t easily meet unless they worked together on a project.

    Even Brion had once said this when he first heard their names.

    Actors Um Jiyoung, Moon Yuhwa, and Yoon Se are all alumni of the Korean National University of Arts, Theatre Department. Known as the most serious and intimidating actors on set, famous among their juniors.

    It was certainly the case.

    "Wow, it''s too noisy! Everyone! We have to shoot the opening, so please quiet down a bit so we can hear Han Yooil''s voice, okay?"

    Pleadingly, Yu Jihyuk PD addressed the three actors who, instead of quieting down, each threw in a remark.

    "Come on~ Are we children? Jihyuk, we''re just excited to see you! Excited!"

    "That''s right, how grateful are we. A young friend hase to meet us with a cake and a bouquet~"

    "So admirable, so admirable!"

    Yooil, amidst the booming voices, just offered a faint smile.

    As the briefmotion settled, the official opening began.

    "Do you know what y we are going to put on this time?"

    At Yu Jihyuk PD''s question, Yooil nodded.

    Thanks to the script sent in advance by the Yurang Troupe, he was well informed.

    "I heard it''s The Picture of Dorian Gray''."

    "Correct~!"

    Yu Jihyuk PD responded cheerfully.

    Oscar Wilde''s The Picture of Dorian Gray'', published in 1890, is a gothic novel representing aestheticism.

    Yu PD pointed to the script on the table and eximed vivaciously.

    "This is a new adaptation of The Picture of Dorian Gray'' for you, written by ywright Gu Yuri. You three have read it already, right?"

    "We''ve memorized it already."

    "Already~?!"

    Yu Jihyuk PD eximed dramatically. Um Jiyoung and Moon Yuhwa nced at him yfully and said,

    "Hey PD! We are actors, remember?"

    "We received it a month ago. Of course, we''ve memorized it all~"

    "Right. I was curious, how did you find the script, Mr. Yooil?"

    At Yoon Se''s friendly question, Yooil smiled and answered,

    "I really enjoyed reading it."

    "I heard from the manager that you stayed up all night reading the script!" Yu Jihyuk PD chimed in, to which Yooilughed awkwardly.

    In truth, it was because he and Brion were experimenting with various acting methods.

    The Picture of Dorian Gray'' featured the beautiful yet increasingly vile Dorian Gray, Lord Henry who led him into a life of hedonism, and Basil, the painter of Dorian Gray''s portrait''. The story follows Dorian Gray who, in pursuit of eternal youth, is willing to sacrifice even his soul, and eventually faces his terrible, corrupted soul  his own portrait, and meets his end by driving a knife into it.

    The adapted y retained the mood and the overall framework of the original.

    While superficially, the main difference was that all the lead actors were women, there was another significant change.

    It was the cement of Dorian Gray''s portrait'' at the center of the stage.

    The characters all faced the backstage, discussing the story while looking at the reversed canvas.

    While the characters'' names and basic storylines were simr, the characters underwent major and minor changes through the adaptation. However, it was straightforward enough to be understood by anyone watching the y from the beginning.

    "But what is our Yooil doing here?"

    "Wait, is Yooil in the y too?"

    "No, sis. He''se all this way, he has to join us on stage."

    It was a question that had been asked since the first meeting.

    And Han Yooil, upon receiving the script for the y, had a role he wanted to perform.

    "I"

    Yooil opened his mouth.

    "!"

    The response startled the three actors, exchanging nces of confusion.

    "Is it feasible? Time is incredibly short."

    The director, catching the writer''s nce, fiddled with the camera.

    One of the many cameras began to zoom in on Yooil''s face.

    Han Yooil looked calm in the camera''s frame, a face devoid of worry.

    At the end of that tranquility was an unbreakable resolve.

    Seeing Yooil''s face, Yu PD chuckled.

    Truth be told, he hadn''t fully trusted Han Yooil either.

    until he saw the video shown by the second PD.

    Having seen that video, he feltpelled to actively ce Han Yooil on the stage.

    Yu Jihyuk PD continued.

    "Actually, we were going to ask Mr. Yooil for a minor role with almost no lines. But after reading the y, the actor himself gave his input."

    "Oh my!"

    "So, the ywright made a separate version with Mr. Yooil in mind."

    Um Jiyoung and Moon Yuhwa''s eyes widened slightly. A mix of surprise and skepticism colored their gaze.

    "It''s great for us. But isn''t the rehearsal period too short?"

    "We have only one or two days, not even a week."

    Moreover, the performance was scheduled for just two dayster.

    ""

    Yoon Se''s well-groomed eyebrows rose.

    Even though it''s a paid gig for a reality show, this was still acting''.

    The reason she and her agency epted <Wandering Theater: The First Time> was singr.

    It was a travel-healing acting'' reality show.

    <i>Hmm I thought he was a serious guy?''</i>

    He was still a young actor. Perhaps in youthful folly, he had blurted out something rash.

    Maybe he was blindly trusting the power of editing.

    She looked at Han Yooil, chin in hand.

    He seemed like a pure and polite young man, which she liked a bit.

    Yoon Se lifted the corners of her mouth, concealing a faint disappointment deep within.

    However, a few hourster, as soon as the acting rehearsal with Han Yooil began, Yoon Se found herself forgetting all her previous thoughts.

    * * *

    As the rehearsalmenced, the three actors transformed into entirely different people.

    "In my life I''ve never seen someone so beautiful."

    Um Jiyoung, ying the painter Basil, murmured dreamily.

    "Youth is fleeting, Dorian. You must enjoy this moment!"

    Moon Yuhwa, as Lord Henry, stretched out her arms and eximed to the void.

    "If I could remain young forever, if the painting aged in my stead, if only that were possible I''d do anything. I''d sacrifice anything even my soul."

    Yoon Se kneeled, her eyes sparkling.

    The entire scene was surreal.

    The Wandering Theater production team watched, holding their breath, as the actors performed.

    It was as if the actors had forgotten that anyone else was even there.

    "Wow."

    The junior writer sped her hands together, noticing they had grown damp with nervousness.

    <i>This season''s cast is no joke.''</i>

    With their extensive acting experience and history on the stage, the rehearsal was extraordinary.

    However, amidst them stood an individual who was not overshadowed, drawing attention time and again.

    Han Yooil.

    A young actor among seasoned performers.

    Compared to the others, he was maintaining a static posture. Yet, the subtle changes in his expression and the slight movements of his fingertips made it impossible to take one''s eyes off him.

    <i>How can he do that without saying a single line yet?''</i>

    However, the junior writer didn''t know yet that it was too early to be surprised.

    * * *

    True to the name Wandering Theater'', their y was to be performed on a makeshift stage set up on a grassywn.

    Although it was an outdoor stage, the y was to be presented with German and English subtitles on the screen.

    It might not have been avish indoor theater, but thanks to the generous production budget, the outdoor setting looked quite impressive.

    Enough to make passersby take a second nce.

    "What''s that?"

    When his friend spoke with an excited voice, Bruno had a bad premonition.

    And that premonition was right on target. His friend, eyes shining, began leading him away from their intended destination, towards the grassywn.

    "Bruno! Look!!"

    Bruno sighed and looked around. Cameras and filming equipment were set up all around.

    A movie? Or a documentary, perhaps.

    While Bruno was pondering disinterestedly, his friend jumped on the spot and shouted.

    "Wow! I know that show! It''s a variety show, really famous in Korea!"

    "Jay, as you know, I''m not interested in K-POP."

    "It''s not about music, it''s a y! Bruno, doesn''t it sound fascinating?!"

    "Maybe. But I''m pretty tired."

    "Just give it 10 minutes! You''re curious, aren''t you?"

    Compelled by his friend''s pleading, Bruno reluctantly made his way and settled down on the grass.

    <i>How impressive could it be, anyway.''</i>

    He had grown up in Germany, attending numerous theaters from a young age with his parents.

    In truth, he wasn''t much of a theater enthusiast himself. It was more out of familiarity due to his parents, who were fervent fans of theater and ballet.

    "10 minutes. After that, we''re leaving."

    However, Bruno didn''t know yet.

    Instead of just 10 minutes, he would find himself rooted to the spot, unable to leave until the y was over.

 Chapter 72:

    Chapter 72:

    In "The Picture of Dorian Gray," Bruno had indeed seen a stage adaptation of the work before. The production had a powerful atmosphere as its strength, but its weaknesses were just as clear. He remembered feeling fatigued midway through the y due to the excessively provocative and shy stage effects and the exaggerated acting.

    But now.

    He simply couldn''t take his eyes off the stage.

    A temporary, makeshift stage.

    The small tform, just steps away from dropping into thewn where the audience sat, looked like an entirely different world.

    Upon seeing Dorian Gray,'' Bruno instantly knew who it was. The moment the actor appeared on stage, shining in a wide linen shirt and leather pants, he thought he was the embodiment of Dorian Gray.

    The actor, wearing a beret and coat, moving with a passive demeanor, must be the artist Basil.

    And the one who walked onto the stage with a leisurely yet vain stride, dressed in a brown three-piece suit and a bowler hat, had to be Lord Henry.

    Incredible.

    The actors were strangers, but each one''s performance was outstanding.

    However, their y wouldnt have felt the same if it had ended as merely a gender-reversed version'' of "The Picture of Dorian Gray."

    That man.

    Bruno fixated his gaze on the stage, eyes wide open.

    The man was just sitting there, showing only his back.

    Just sitting, yet the atmosphere was peculiar.

    Bruno felt an indescribable strangeness as he watched the man, dressed in a white shirt as pale as his pants, from behind.

    What role could he be ying?

    When he first saw him standing in the center, he couldn''t grasp it.

    "Of course, you''ll exhibit it, won''t you? It would be a sin to let such a painting rot, Basil."

    "No, no, no I have no such intention, Harry."

    Basil rises from his seat. He starts walking across the stage as if mesmerized.

    "There''s a secret of my soul hidden here."

    The man in white remained seated in the center, his back turned.

    Basil carefully examines the seated man, followed by Henry, who also scrutinizes him.

    Their gazes were akin to beholding a sculpture disyed in the Muse d''Orsay.

    "Was sum?"

    Bruno muttered to himself unintentionally.

    That''s when he realized it.

    The man in the center was, indeed, the portrait''!

    "Only now I realize this"

    While Brunomented his bted realization

    "Don''t ruin Dorian Henry. It might sound strange, but my life depends on him."

    And as Basil warned Henry, moving his lips

    The portrait'' began to move.

    "The Picture of Dorian Gray" started moving slowly.

    Like a flower blooming under the spring rain, the movements were elegant and meticulous.

    Even those who were chatting and drinking beer fell silent, their eyes glued to the stage.

    Jay, who had been watching with his mouth open, suddenly nced at his wristwatch.

    "Hey, Bruno. It''s been 10 minutes already"

    As Jay hesitantly spoke up, Bruno hushed him with a gesture.

    With a look of reproach,

    ""

    Jay, feeling somewhat unjustly treated, turned his head back towards the stage.

    But his mood was good. He, too, wanted to see the end of this y.

    "How can this be"

    Basil, upon discovering his painting, staggers in shock.

    The portrait'' turns its head.

    Basil, whose eyes meet those of the portrait'', shakes his head wildly.

    "No This isn''t what I painted."

    Trembling with fear, Basil watches as the portrait'' slowly turns around.

    "Basil."

    A voice as soothing asforting a child.

    The audience, hearing that enchanting voice for the first time, held their breath.

    "It''s true. You did paint it. I am your creation. The soul of the beautiful Dorian Gray'' you love."

    The portrait'' speaks as if in a dream.

    So beautiful was the sight, Bruno found himself unwittingly opening his mouth in awe.

    "I must pray"

    As Basil kneels to pray, the portrait''s'' face grotesquely contorts.

    The corners of the mouth curl up, revealing teeth between the red lips. The eyes shine fiercely.

    It was a smile.

    "That?"

    Can that be called a smile''?

    If something so chilling is a smile,'' isn''t there something wrong?

    Despite a physiological repulsion, Bruno couldn''t tear his eyes away from it.

    The y continued.

    Dorian, having lived a life of decadent decay, heads to the countryside.

    He vows to live a righteous life. The portrait,'' watching Dorian,ughs breathlessly.

    "Ha!"

    And then theughter stops abruptly.

    The portrait''s'' eyes turn cold in an instant.

    It mimics every action of Dorian.

    In a grotesquely twisted posture that seems suffocating just to look at.

    <i>It''s impossible. How can the body be used like that?''</i>

    Even while moving in such a posture, the portrait'' looked as if it was having fun. A pure yet sinister smile emerges on its face.

    If the face of a boy possessed by a demon existed it would look just like that.

    Dorian Gray, believing his soul to be redeemed, slowly approaches his painting.

    Seeing this, Bruno, along with the audience, sps their hands together.

    Hoping, wishing they wouldn''t see.

    But contrary to the audience''s wishes, Dorian eventually opens the door. And hees face to face with his portrait.''

    "Ah."

    Bruno''s eyes widen in shock, his lips bitten.

    The moment Dorian confronts his portrait'' again.

    Joy appears on the portrait''s'' face.

    ""

    The watching audience, unknowingly, recoils.

    Bruno clenched his arms tightly. His whole body was covered in goosebumps.

    Dorian Gray, holding a knife, stabs his own portrait.''

    Even at that moment, the portrait'' was smiling. Confronted by that smile, Dorian trembles and, instead, copses spewing blood.

    The portrait'' watches Dorian''s life fade away until the end. Anger, ecstasy, and joy pass over its face in turn.

    Likeyers of an onion being peeled away, continually revealing new surfaces.

    And at the end, only an empty smile remains.

    "This is our'' soul, Dorian."

    With those final, scraping words, the portrait''s'' eyes flicker and then slowly dim.

    * * *

    The y ends.

    The actors lying on the stage slowly rise.

    Only then do the audience, as if awakening from a spell, begin to apud.

    Bruno jumps up and ps passionately. He could feel therge camera zooming in on him from afar, but that was not the time to care about such things.

    If there was one regret, it was just one.

    Having to alternate his gaze between the subtitles and the actors meant he had to take his eyes off their performance every few seconds.

    "It would have been perfect if I understood Korean."

    Jay, instead of responding aloud, simply nodded his head. He too was resonating with Bruno''s statement with his whole body.

    The middle-aged actors who filled the stage possessed astonishing energy. Their performances, elegant yet passionate, were so intense that they were hard to capture in the word impressive.''

    But there was something even more intriguing.

    "Jay, who is that actor?"

    As the curtain call was drawing to a close, Bruno grabbed his friend and asked urgently.

    His fingertips were pointing towards the stage.

    More precisely, towards the white-d man standing in the center.

    "I don''t know"

    "Lies! Is there a Korean actor you don''t know?"

    "Bruno, I''m just a fan of Love A, not an encyclopedia of all Korean entertainers!"

    Yet, even as Jay said that, he looked regretful.

    After that day, Bruno found himself plunged into a mystery.

    It was a mystery brought by an unnamed Eastern actor.

    * * *

    "Ah, I''m dying"

    The three middle-aged actors who had just finished their performance were panting and sitting on the floor. Sweat soaked their foreheads and necks.

    They seemed too drained even to change out of their stage costumes, their faces nk.

    "Here, drink some water, senior."

    "Ah thanks."

    "Thank you, Yooil."

    They barely managed to receive the water bottles and chocte bars handed to them by Han Yooil.

    Yoon Se looked at her own arms trembling weakly like thin branches and chuckled.

    It was a performance that left no energy even to unwrap a chocte bar. She looked at the chocte wrapped in golden foil and muttered.

    "It''s been a while since I acted this much."

    "Right? Me too. I''mpletely drained."

    Unnie~! Me too.

    Moon Yuhwa and Um Jiyoung joined in with the sentiment.

    They hadn''t been on the theater stage much since their younger days, but that didn''t mean they had beenpletely detached from acting.

    Even so, the memory of acting with such all-out effort was distant.

    "Honestly, I thought it was a bit of a stretch at first."

    The actors, each lost in thought, turned their heads at Yoon Se''sment.

    "I thought it was an impossible luxury."

    They all knew what Yoon Se meant without further exnation.

    It was after the official rehearsals began that Yoon Se realized Han Yooil''s confidence was not just for show.

    How about Basil and the portrait'' have a dialogue face to face?

    Ah, then I will follow your lead in this part.

    The quality, achieved in such a short time, was unbelievable.

    Yooil, when did you manage to put all this together?

    Yoon Se''s question made Yooil ponder briefly before answering.

    Just whenever I had time, I thought about it. Because I wanted to be on stage with the seniors.

    The three actors turned their gaze as if on cue.

    Um Jiyoung, watching Yooil distribute snacks he had bought for the production team, murmured quietly.

    "Now I see why he''s popr."

    Moon Yuhwa added quietly.

    "If I were just twenty years younger"

    "Unnie, are you crazy? Stop talking nonsense!"

    "Jihyuk, please edit this out. You got that?"

    Moon Yuhwa yfully made a cutting gesture with her hand, but the moment she saw the producer''s broadly grinning face, she knew it would never be edited out.

    * * *

    "Wow, that was some good sleep."

    Woken by the in-flight announcement about seatbelts, Yooil rubbed his eyes and looked down at the approaching ground.

    Heart rate normal. Body temperature normal. Oxygen saturation normal. A very stable condition.

    Thanks to the big bowl of bibimbap the three senior actors insisted on feeding him the night before, Yooil still felt full.

    As he fumbled in his pocket to take out his phone, his hand touched a Proid photo. It was a picture of him with Philippe Sciamma, Amy Baumbeck, and David.

    <i>This must be from the after-party.''</i>

    The short period had been unbelievably fulfilling.

    The moments on the red carpet, the casual shoots, and standing on the open stage of the theater shone more vividly than the shes from the cameras.

    It wasn''t beyond the expected range.

    Brion might say so.

    <i>But I didn''t know it would be this much fun.''</i>

    Frankly, it was more enjoyable than the reward vacation to Vietnam.

    Because while acting, no worries could trouble him.

    "Director!"

    As soon as he got off the ne, Yooil was met by Director Jang Jaeyi who hade to the airport to pick him up. Upon seeing Yooil, Director Jang immediately said,

    "We have a ce to go, Yooil!"

    Instead of exining further, he started leading Yooil somewhere.

 Chapter 73:

    Chapter 73:

    Director Jang Jaeyi took Yooil to none other than a neatly built studio apartment, about 20 pyeong in size. Through therge windows, the Han River was visible.

    "It''s your home, Yooil."

    "What?"

    Yooil, not understanding the situation, was taken aback by Jang Jaeyi''s words.

    He remembered that CEO Jang Jaehyun had promised to arrange a ce for him to stay.

    Still, he hadn''t expected it to be this soon.

    "The apartment was personally chosen by the CEO. We thought it would be best for Yooil to handle the interior himself, so we''ve just prepared the basics."

    Yooil looked around the spacious living room. A 60-inch television hung in the middle of the wall, and a neatly arranged white bed in the room caught his eye.

    Jang Jaeyi shrugged and added,

    "It''s perfect for living alone."

    "It seems a bit too much for just me," Yooil murmured.

    Hearing Yooil''s murmur, Director Jang Jaeyi simply remarked that he would get used to it soon and left.

    Min Woojin, upon hearing the news of the move, seemed even more excited than Yooil himself.

    That ce, a lot of famous people live there!

    Yooil nodded in agreement to Woojin''s voice over the phone.

    The security seemed quite strict, not a false story about the residence of many celebrities.

    And that thing you were looking at, they contacted mest night!

    "!"

    A smile spread across Han Yooil''s face.

    It was a wee piece of news.

    * * *

    The next day, in the afternoon.

    Yooil went to pick up Jin Hayoung after her work.

    Surprised by Yooil''s sudden visit, Jin Hayoung kept sneaking peeks outside the car window, curious about their destination.

    However, Han Yooil didn''t reveal the destination easily.

    "Yooil, is this the ce?"

    Instead of answering, Han Yooil opened the door to the apartment.

    "Ah!"

    Jin Hayoung involuntarily covered her mouth with both hands.

    The apartment was simr in size to Yooil''s studio but had much better natural light. It was a ce where Jin Hayoung could freely grow the potted nts she loved, with plenty of sunlighting in.

    Through therge windows, Inwang Mountain was clearly visible.

    When CEO Jang had been looking for Yooil''s home, Yooil, too, had been diligently searching for a ce for Jin Hayoung.

    The house he had been checking out became avable at just the right time, and he managed to secure it.

    "My aunt always said she wanted to live in a ce with a view of the mountains. So"

    Yooil couldn''t continue his words. It was because he had seen Jin Hayoung''s eyes turning red.

    Yooil ced his hand on Jin Hayoung''s thin shoulder.

    ""

    Instead of saying anything else, she hugged him back.

    The child who was once less than half her size had grown so much. Now, he was almost too much to embrace with both arms.

    Jin Hayoung''s warm hand stroked Han Yooil''s back. With a voice filled with emotion, she continued,

    "Thank you."

    Yooil, holding back the words that threatened to spill out, just hugged her.

    A quiet and warm evening was passing by.

    * * *

    Director Kim Soobong''s legendary ssic, Jinhee''s'' remake a boon or a bane?

    Movie Jinhee''mences filming featuring Seo Hyunju, Han Yooil, and Gu Ilhwan.

    Director Won Heesu sharpens the de'' Takes the helm for the remake of movie Jinhee''

    Hul, a remake of Jinhee?

    Seo Hyunju,  Isn''t this crazy?

    But I''m a bit worried The original is legendary.

    22..

    333,, I''ve never seen a remake better than the original.

    Wow.. Jinhee. I remember sneaking into the cinema to watch it as a kid. Looking forward to the remake version. The intense acting of Ha Sunwook back then was remarkable. Curious to see how Seo Hyunju will interpret it.

    Seo Hyunju and Han Yooil seem to have a good on-screen chemistry.

    Agree.

    Seo Hyunju slowly put down her phone.

    Hyunju didn''t go out muchpared to other actors, and her private life was not as well-known.

    However, she surprisingly had many friends, one of her well-known friends being Yoon Se.

    Over the phone, she could hear Se yawning loudly.

    Germany, was it? She heard that Se had just returned from shooting a variety show abroad.

    Yoon Se asked with a voice dripping with fatigue,

    You''re starting the shoot today, right?

    "Yeah. Call time soon."

    With that guy, right?

    Hyunju sensed a faint anticipation in Se''s voice.

    Han Yooil.

    Hyunju looked at her phone with intrigue. It was rare for Se to bring up someone else''s story first.

    Even rarer for a story about a neer actor.

    That kid is something special.

    "Really?"

    Hyunju''s eyes narrowed slightly.

    Kiwoon is a mirror.

    Hyunju still hadn''t forgotten the moment Han Yooil said that during the reading.

    Even then, she felt it, an interesting actor.

    * * *

    Yooil looked at Seo Hyunju wearing avender dress.

    Neatly tucked-in bob-cut hair, a white hairpin, and a ssic dress made her look like she popped right out of a magazine from 40 or 50 years ago.

    Yooil himself wore a wide suit and had his hair waxed up.

    "Oh, wow! Yooil, you totally look like an 80s idol!"

    As Min Woojin said, the background was indeed the 1980s.

    The original Jinhee'' was set in the 1950s, but the remake shifted the setting to the 1980s.

    The filming location was a set in Pocheon. Being a period drama, and particrly one set in the challenging 1980s, Yooil had heard that the art director, along with the art and props teams, had struggled for months.

    It was only after seeing the set that Yooil could truly appreciate how challenging it must have been.

    Director Won Heesu''sment that we have the Art Direction award in the bag'' was not made without reason.

    Being the first shooting day with the lead actors, Director Won Heesu gathered the actors before the shoot and spoke.

    "Remember the reading we did earlier? Let''s bring that memory and go at it without any pressure."

    She put on her tucked-in sunsses and smiled.

    "Let''s do well, guys."

    And thus, the first shooting of Jinhee'' began.

    The filming was generally nned to proceed ording to the script''s order.

    And Yooil''s first appearance in the movie was precisely in Scene 13.

    [S#13. Cafe, Day]

    "Action!"

    With the director''s voice, Yooil opened his eyes which he had closed.

    Jinhee sitting in the caf. The camera captures the back of Jinhee being approached.

    As the camera gently touches Jinhee from behind, she turns around with a startled look. Slowly, Kiwoon'' picks up a pen from the floor and speaks.

    "You dropped this."

    Looking directly at Jinhee.

    Only then does Jinhee''s head slowly rise. Her eyes, passing Kiwoon''s hand and shoulder, meet his eyes and tremble significantly.

    "Tha thank you."

    Jinhee barely utters her thanks before fleeing the caf.

    Though Kiwoon''s voice calling after her is heard, Jinhee runs away, paying him no mind.

    "Cut!"

    Director Won Heesu nodded with a satisfied expression.

    The scene was finished, along with additional shots to capture different angles.

    After that, Yooil and Seo Hyunju shot three more scenes. The filming set resonated with the clean cuts.

    Unlike dramas which required rushing due to tight schedules, Jinhee'' was quite rxed. Typically, no more than three or four scenes were scheduled per day, and there was ample rest time.

    Right after Yooil finished monitoring hisst shot,

    Seo Hyunju quietly called out to him.

    "Um, Yooil."

    Yooil, who stood up abruptly, waited for her to continue.

    However, Seo Hyunju didn''t start talking right away. She seemed to be contemting, flicking her lips as if to say it''s nothing,'' and left the spot first.

    This left Yooil feeling uneasy even as he got into his car.

    It seemed like she had something she wanted to say.

    <i>Did I make some mistake?''</i>

    There was nothing to be concerned about.

    Yooil nodded and shifted his gaze to the floating translucent window.

    Progress towards the third phase target: 32.5%

    Looking at thepletion rate, Yooil spoke to Woojin.

    "I''m thinking of doing a live on ShiningStar today, hyung."

    "Live?"

    Indeed, this was an idea Yooil had after listening to Brion.

    Gaining real-time feedback from the public can also contribute to the achievement rate.

    Live streaming was an excellent way to gain real-time public reactions without direct interaction.

    <i>Gotta try everything I can.''</i>

    Moreover, interacting with fans was always a pleasant experience.

    Han Yooil clicked on the Shasta icon, his lips curling up slightly.

    * * *

    Yes, that''s right. I just finished shooting and am on my way back.

    7 PM.

    An office worker who just returned home was watching Han Yooil''s live broadcast.

    It was sheer coincidence that they found out about his live. Having just finished work, they decided to check out Han Yooil''s Shasta page, and just then, his live broadcast had started.

    The office worker joined the live with excitement. Already, over a thousand people were watching his live, and the viewer count was continuously increasing in real-time.

    Oppa, did you have a good trip to Berlin???

    How was the wandering theater troupe??????

    Super handsome

    Yes, thanks to everyone, my trip to Berlin was great. The wandering theater troupe filming went well too.

    Tell us about your experience with the wandering theater troupe, Yooil!

    Did you see the post Um Jiyoung actress uploaded on Shasta?

    Yes, of course. I saw the post Um Jiyoung sunbaenim uploaded on Shasta.

    Seeing the smile on Han Yooil''s face, the office worker couldn''t contain their curiosity and began browsing through Shasta.

    [@umji_gongju

    (Photo)(Photo)

    Yooil, with a perfect face and personality~

    Thanks to you, we created a great stage~ ^^

    #FirstTimeWithAWanderingTheaterTroupe #WonderfulJunior #Happy #Day]

    The office worker smiled warmly, looking at the selfie of Um Jiyoung and Han Yooil side by side.

    Meanwhile, Yooil was in the middle of hearing a new story from thements.

    Lonely Han Yooil'' room? What''s that?

    Han Yooil, with his eyes wide open looking at the camera, appeared a bit no, considerably cute.

    From How can you not know this?!'' to Well, I guess you might not know'' his face naturally softened everyone''s hearts.

    Numerous people exined in thements, one after the other. Han Yooil''s manager also seemed to be busily exining something beside him.

    Wow, there''s such a thing?!

    Yooil''s eyes sparkled with the promise to check it out as soon as the live ended.

    * * *

    Right after the live ended, Han Yooil entered the open chat room on Mitalk for the first time.

    He was firstly surprised at the sheer number of rooms with Lonely'' in their names, and then again surprised to find out there was a room dedicated to him.

    (Hi)

    (Mu-ha)

    While viewing the real-time memes of his face, Han Yooil carefullyposed a message.

    Hello, Mooyi folks! This is Han Yooil. Sorry for thete greeting. I hope you all have a wonderful evening.

    (Emoticon throwing flowers)

    <i>Is this how you send it?''</i>

    While Yooil, with an expectant face, waited for responses from the Mooyi folks, an unexpected message came back.

    Anonymous32: (;;)

    Anonymous68: (No spoilers, please)

    [You cannot participate in this chat room. You have been removed by the room owner or admin.]

    "?!"

 Chapter 74:

    Chapter 74:

    <i>Ah The trolls are relentless today.</i>

    Someone sighing and closing their phone was none other than the YouTuber YooilYooilHae'', who gained over 50,000 subscribers after a video of them giving a gift to Han Yooil at the airport went viral.

    YooilYooilHae'', also known as YoolHae'', had been actively posting since the airport video. They edited and uploaded parts of dramas featuring Han Yooil, adding sound effects and subtitles to fan meeting videos released by his agency.

    Lately, YoolHae was eagerly awaiting the broadcast of First Time With a Wandering Theater Troupe''. Joining Han Yooil''s Lonely'' chat room was one of the ways to pass the time.

    Han Yooil''s Lonely'' room was more entertaining than expected.

    (A GIF of Seon Gihyeon'' getting up abruptly from <Sing in High School>)

    (A GIF of Yooil'' threateningly speaking to Joonki in <The Last Diner>)

    (A GIF of The Man'' wandering around in <Daydream>)

    Thanks to Yooil''s relentless build-up of his filmography in a short period, fans could easily converse using just GIFs.

    Above all, the Mooyi folks were serious about creating these GIFs.

    However, the Lonely'' room had never been as noisy as today. As soon as Yooil mentioned Lonely Han Yooil'' in his Shasta live, trolls iming to be Han Yooil quickly flocked to the Lonely'' room''s door.

    "Is this a joke?"

    YoolHae watched, annoyed, as the new troll was forcibly ejected. It was already the thirteenth time.

    Soon, the chat room started filling up with GIFsmemorating the disappearance of the troll.

    It was towards the end of this flow that a newbie in the Lonely'' room posted an unexpected photo.

    (Photo)

    With a feeling akin to receiving a tribute, YoolHae clicked on the photo of Han Yooil.

    "Wow."

    A selfie with clear skin and slightly wet hair tips stood out. In the background, a bed''s headboard and pillows were visible.

    It looked like a rxed photo taken just before going to bed.

    While naturally saving the photo, YoolHae suddenly thought,

    "But have I seen this photo before?"

    After scrutinizing the photo, it seemed like it was genuinely the first time.

    The fact that it wasn''t found even in the fan club hinted that it was a yet-to-be-released photo.

    Someone in the Lonely'' room asked the person who posted the photo using a GIF.

    (A GIF of Han Yooil in <Roll it Fun> asking the production team, Where did you find this?'')

    The response was immediate.

    Hello. This is Han Yooil. (Smiling emoticon)

    I didn''t know how to verify myself, so I uploaded a photo I just took! Thank you always. Have a great night, everyone!

    At that moment, YoolHae dropped their phone in shock.

    "No way!"

    And that day, the fact that Han Yooil was once kicked out of his own Lonely'' room, along with him posting a photo in the Lonely'' room, started circting in variousmunities.

    Actor kicked out of his own Lonely'' room

    [Screenshot from the open chat room

    of Han Yooil]

    LOL

    Can''t believe it

    So cute

    But why is the verification selfie so wless?

    Agree,,

    3333,,

    Agree, I''m not even a fan of Han Yooil but I saved it

    Lately, I really like Han Yooil

    [An actor who works hard during live broadcasts and even visits his Lonely'' room during filming Really admirable]

    Truly

    Fans must be so happy

    Seriously, I''m a fan of someone else, but it seems like Han Yooil does more lives than my idols lol

    Ah

    Does anyone know what Han Yooil is filming now?

    Jinhee! It''s a remake of a 70s movie.

    Wow, I can''t wait.

    Looking forward to it.

    The news also spread among Han Yooil''s ssmates.

    Korean Lit Kim Jinwoo: Han Yooil

    Korean Lit Kim Jinwoo: You''ve got a Lonely'' room, lol

    Korean Lit Hwang Riu: What''s a Lonely'' room?

    Korean Lit Kim Jinwoo:

    Korean Lit Kim Jinwoo: You''re a bit out of touch, mate

    Just a few days ago, even Yooil himself was unaware of the existence of his Lonely'' room. He felt a bit embarrassed as he watched the chat in the group chat.

    Korean Lit Kang Hana: Yooil! Have you registered for your sses?

    Yeah.

    Yooil replied quickly.

    Having spent the entire course registration period in Berlin, Yooil boldly decided to skip it and aim for the course correction period.

    Korean Lit Hwang Riu: Eh?

    But when his ssmates saw the timetable Yooil sent, they all began to deny the reality.

    Korean Lit Hwang Riu: How did you manage to get into the screeny ss?

    Korean Lit Kim Jinwoo: WTF;

    Korean Lit Kang Hana: That''s impossible

    Korean Lit Kang Hana: Are you joking..?

    When Yooil showed them the online campus screenshot, the chatroom erupted again.

    Korean Lit Kang Hana: (Emoticon of tears)

    Korean Lit Kim Jinwoo: (Emoticon of pulling out hair)

    Korean Lit Kang Hana: Some get courses during correction period I''ve been waiting since 8 am and still failed

    Korean Lit Hwang Riu: Maybe you''re just unlucky

    Korean Lit Kang Hana: Riu

    Korean Lit Kang Hana: Do you want to die?

    Korean Lit Kim Jinwoo: I''ll also pick up courses during the correction period

    Surprised by the strong reactions, Yooil had simply followed Brion''s advice and pressed the buttons in sequence. He had heard that getting into the screeny ss was difficult, but he hadn''t expected it to be this intense.

    <i>I wanted to take the screeny creation ss.''</i>

    Above all, it was the best course for him as it not only fulfilled his major credits but was also assignment-focused.

    Yooil finished the chat by stirring up his ssmates'' jealousy once more, promising to share his experienceter.

    * * *

    "Unnie, unnie!"

    Seo Hyunju''s manager rushed towards her artist with cheerful steps.

    "You''ll hurt yourself, Hyein."

    Caught by Seo Hyunju''s elegant face for a moment, the manager regained her senses and handed over her phone. The YouTube app was open.

    "Unnie! You haven''t seen this yet, right?"

    As Seo Hyunju nodded, the manager continued.

    "This is the trailer for the wandering theater troupe it features Um Jiyoung, Moon Yuhwa, and also"

    "The one with Se, right?"

    "Yeah, that''s right!"

    Seo Hyunju nodded and took the phone.

    She had heard plenty about the Wandering Theater Troupe'' from Yoon Se.

    However she was curious about the trailer.

    "Shall I y it for you?"

    "Yes, please."

    The trailer began with bright faces of Um Jiyoung, Moon Yuhwa, and Yoon Se disembarking from an airne.

    [The wandering theater troupe boldly steps into Germany!]

    Their happy faces while tasting street food and rolling on the beds at the amodation shed quickly on the screen. However, the music soon changed.

    [But!]

    Can we really post this?

    Ah, I don''t think this will work.

    Do we have to post something with the guest every day?

    The serious conversation between Um Jiyoung and Moon Yuhwa, along with Yoon Se shaking her head, was shown sequentially.

    The trailer showcased Producer Yu''s unique and sensible editing style.

    However, the most crucial part was towards the end.

    [And the appearance of a special guest]

    The footage seemed to be taken from a distance, almost secretly.

    Wow, this is going to be big

    Are you sure you got it right from the start?

    As the murmurs of the production team were heard, the shaky camera revealed a scene.

    As the focus gradually sharpened, it became clear who was being filmed.

    A foreign man with a slightly grown beard sitting on a caf terrace. And the face of the person sitting opposite him became distinctly visible.

    It was Han Yooil.

    "What?"

    Seo Hyunju raised her eyebrows.

    From the woman with a camera directly in front of him, it seemed like Yooil was in the middle of a shoot.

    Can I ask you for a favor?

    Han Yooil looked straight at the man and delivered his line.

    Although not a native speaker, his pronunciation was impressively natural.

    If it''s okay with you

    Just as Han Yooil was about to continue, the screen tinted orange just in time.

    [Tomorrow evening at 10 PM, on YTBC!]

    "What do you think, unnie?!" asked the manager.

    "Looks interesting."

    "Chi, you say that but you won''t watch it, will you?"

    Seo Hyunju smiled lightly and stood up.

    "Actress, we''re about to start shooting!"

    * * *

    The scenes scheduled for shooting today for Han Yooil and Seo Hyunju totaled three. Like always, the filming concluded swiftly without any particr NGs.

    The only thing left was a short insert featuring Yooil alone.

    Seo Hyunju watched Han Yooil, who was busy filming, for a long time.

    In fact, Seo Hyunju belonged to the school of thought that believed talent'' is innate. However, Han Yooil was peculiarly not someone with exceptional talent''.

    Yet, he was efficient in acting and had an excellent learning ability. He seemed to know better than anyone how he appeared.

    His acting seemed calcted yet didn''t feel forced, as if it was second nature

    <i>Maybe that''s what it means to be an actor.''</i>

    However, there was something that had been bothering her while acting alongside him.

    Was it because she had scrutinized more closely after watching the trailer for the wandering theater troupe?

    Until now, she had hesitated to speak up, but somehow, she now felt assured that it was the right time to say something.

    Seo Hyunju casually called Yooil, who had just finished shooting the insert.

    "Yooil."

    "Yes, sunbaenim."

    Seo Hyunju looked at Han Yooil, who quickly came to her side.

    After a brief contemtion, she opened her mouth.

    "Do you enjoy acting?"

    For others, it might have sounded like a critique. Indeed, Seo Hyunju often heardments about her being too harsh on her juniors, despite her intentions.

    Fortunately, Han Yooil didn''t seem to take it badly.

    "It''s fun," he replied.

    "That''s good. I also enjoy acting with you, Yooil."

    Seo Hyunju slightly smiled before continuing,

    "But what I wanted to say is sometimes, Yooil, it seems like you''re trying to show everything in every single scene. As if each moment is yourst."

    "!"

    Yooil took a deep breath.

    "You might not notice it, but as an observer, it feels a bit desperate."

    Seo Hyunju added cautiously,

    "You''re quite young and just beginning in acting."

    It''s okay not to be that desperate.

    Her words were kind.

    However, that warm advice felt like the sharpest critique Yooil had ever received.

    Yooil swallowed hard before managing to reply,

    "Thank you"

    His voice was almost choked.

    Heading back to the car where Min Woojin was waiting, Woojin immediately looked concerned upon seeing Yooil''s expression.

    "Yooil, are you okay?"

    "Yes, hyung."

    Yooil forced a smile.

    But as soon as he leaned back in the seat, the sigh he''d been holding back escaped.

    As if each moment is yourst.

    It''s okay not to be that desperate.

    Seo Hyunju''s words echoed in his mind all the way home.

    <i>I thought I hid it well.''</i>

    But he was caught.

    And during acting.

    Yooil slowly shifted his gaze.

    The progress towards his goal still floated on the translucent screen.

    Phase 3 Goal Achievement Rate: 33.1%

    He didn''t want to be obsessed with numbers, but it was inevitable.

    Yet, he never expected his desperation'' to be revealed, even in his acting.

    If you wish, you can undergo additional training for this.

    At Brion''s words, Yooil slowly nodded.

    * * *

    As the filming of Jinhee'' progressed, the new season of First Time With a Wandering Theater Troupe'' was aired.

    Oh

    Finally!!!!!!

    OMG

    It starts

    And right after the first broadcast of Wandering Theater Troupe''.

    The onlinemunities ignited.

 Chapter 75:

    Chapter 75:

    <i>Its here!</i>

    With hands sped together in anticipation, Lee Hyejin gazed intently at the television screen, her eyes sparkling.

    Since the first episode of "First Time With a Wandering Theater Troupe" airedst week, SNS was abuzz with excitement, spawning numerous memes.

    The first episode depicted Um Jiyoung, Moon Yuhwa, and Yoon Se enjoying a short trip in Munich, watching a y, and then the process of preparing for their own y as they moved to Berlin.

    The sight of the actors, notmonly seen on variety shows, enjoying their trip and engaging in cheerful conversations was therapeutic for viewers.

    However, the real thrill came after the mid-episodemercial break.

    The startled reaction of the production team upon coincidentally filming Yooil in Berlin was the starting signal.

    Is that Han Yooil?

    The shocked face of the second PD and the shaky camera were broadcasted unedited.

    Following their authentic reaction, Han Yooil appeared.

    His scene in a Berlin cafe, performing in English, spawned countless memes and captivated the audience with its well-crafted editing.

    The episode then broadcasted the process of PD Yoo Jihyuk securing Han Yooil''s participation in Korea a few days before the trip to Germany.

    [Just days before the trip to Germany, at JJ Entertainment]

    PD Yoo: Of course! We will also cover your return flight!

    Yooil: I''m interested.

    [Deal closed coolly]

    The humorous editing, suggesting Yooil''s decision was swayed by the offer of a flight ticket, became a hot topic, not just on Han Yooil''s fan ounts but also on other BlueChat ounts.

    This led up to the moment in the first episode where the three actors and Han Yooil met for the first time in Berlin.

    A weekter, the second episode aired with a tense atmosphere, contrasting the lively mood of the first episode.

    But is this really possible?

    I''ll be frank since it''s just us, but I think it''s going to be hard. Because it''s hard for me too. It''s not some acting workshop. We have to perform on stage.

    Hearing the serious conversation between Yoon Se and Moon Yuhwa, Hyejin started to worry.

    But her concerns quickly dissipated as the rehearsal began.

    Basil

    Han Yooil no, The Picture of Dorian Gray'' spoke for the first time.

    Hyejin''s eyes widened.

    <i>Wow.''</i>

    Even though it was an edited scene, the tension of that moment was palpable. Hyejin, who had nned to post livements on BlueChat during the broadcast, was so engrossed in the rehearsal that she forgot her initial intention.

    I am your creation. The soul of the beautiful Dorian Gray'' you love.

    The close-up shot of Moon Yuhwa''s eyes widening at the edge of the rehearsal room was justified by thepelling performance.

    Captivated by the rehearsal, Hyejin blinked rapidly as the credits suddenly appeared.

    [Next episode preview!]

    Hyejin stared nkly at the preview for the third episode of "First Time With a Wandering Theater Troupe."

    <i>Is it over already?''</i>

    In disbelief, she checked the clock, startled to realize that an hour had swiftly passed.

    In fact, "First Time With a Wandering Theater Troupe" was a challenging program for the actors. As they had to deliver genuine performances on stage, it was a far cry from thefort and ease of typical variety shows. That''s why the program mainly recruited actors with extensive experience in the industry.

    <i>Incredible''</i>

    Lee Hyejin, still feeling the lingering effect of the show, picked up her phone. Justst week, she often saw reactions like, "So why is Han Yooil in it?" But with a mix of worry and excitement, she started searching for updates.

    Watching Wandering Theater Troupe

    [I mean, Yoo Jihyuk is himself. Everyone seems unsure during individual practice, but the moment rehearsal starts, their chemistry is just amazing]

    Agree Of course, there''s some directing, but the rehearsal feels so satisfying

    Feels like watching a sports drama.

    Thrilling!

    Anyone watching Wandering Theater Troupe?? Got a question.

    [I only saw the 1st episode clips, but there was a scene from the trailer where Han Yooil was filming something on a terrace what was he filming? Wasn''t he there for a film festival?]

    Yeah, he went there for the film festival.

    But why was he filming?

    It was a personal short film project, not an official schedule!

    Yeah, he filmed it with two directors and one actor, got close during the after-party and decided to do it.

    Here''s the full video (link).

    Wow, thank you!

    I was shocked the moment I heard Amy Baumbeck''s name

    Not well-known in Korea, but Amy Baumbeck and Philippe Sciamma are pretty hot directors recently.

    But while watching Wandering Theater Troupe, I can''t help but feel

    [(Wandering Theater Troupe screenshot)

    Is it just me, or do Um Jiyoung and Moon Yuhwa look like Han Yooil''s parents?]

    Hyejin couldn''t help butugh at the attached screenshot.

    In the photo, Han Yooil sat in the middle, speaking earnestly, while Um Jiyoung and Moon Yuhwa on either side watched him with deep, affectionate eyes. It was a scene from the middle of episode 2, just before the rehearsal.

    LOL, look at that sweet gaze.

    Ahahaha

    But everyone seems to love Han Yooil

    Han Yooil seems more sociable than I thought.

    Yeah, even during breaks, he takes care of everyone so well. I would adore him too lol.

    As the show continued, Wandering Theater Troupe'' started trending in variousmunities.

    (Chat) Anyone watching Wandering Theater Troupe?

    [Just caught it while having ate dinner, it''s really entertaining~ Everyone acts sooo well..^^]

    Me! Today''s episode was really impressive

    Han Yooil? That guy''s acting is really good. Polite even to the elders~

    Is that young actor Han Yooil? Wondered where he came from~^^.

    Watched it too~~ Wish I could see the y in Korea~

    Wandering Theater Troupe is fun

    [Started watching because there was nothing else, but their acting is insane. Even the rehearsal gave me chills;;]

    Agree. Watching it made me think it would be great if Um Jiyoung, Moon Yuhwa, and Yoon Se starred in a movie together.

    Didn''t expect much, but it''s entertaining. The young male actor''s performance is really good.

    Thought he was just a pretty face, but was surprised by his acting skills. lol

    * * *

    While various reactions to "First Time With a Wandering Theater Troupe" poured in on SNS, Han Yooil was in the practice room. Recently, Yooil had beenmuting to the set for five shoots, and on non-shooting days, he mostly spent his time practicing. Thepany-provided apartment''s close proximity to thepany made it convenient for him to reach the practice room without any hassle.

    Regardless of Yooil''s state, the shooting itself was smooth. Director Won Heesu was satisfied with every shoot, but ever since Seo Hyunju''sment, Yooil found it hard to immerse himselfpletely in the shoots.

    Currently, they were filming the part where Kiwoon'' cautiously approaches Jinhee, and, ironically, Yooil''s felt alienation and awkwardness matched well with the drama.

    Yooil furrowed his brow in thought when Brion V.15''s voice was heard.

    Actually, the issue with Yooil''s current goal is not significantly problematic in the context of acting.

    Brion quickly continued,

    For instance, in Meisner''s view, an actor''s subconscious ambition and desire for power can form a unique basis for character interpretation within the overall flow of the y.

    Can desperation be helpful?

    As Yooil pondered with a half-convinced expression, Brion''s voice was heard again.

    More precisely, your will to survive'' can also sufficiently assist in your aplishments as an actor.

    A detedugh escaped from Yooil''s lips.

    In other words, this also meant that the current Yooil was not managing to do so.

    Something else was needed.

    Something different from the practices he was currently undertaking.

    If you wish, Yooil, we can attempt Background Immersion'' training, allowing you to experience the script''s setting in advance.

    Han Yooil''s eyes widened at the unexpected suggestion.

    "Background Immersion''?"

    It involves acting out your role within a background'' created based on the script, epassing visual, auditory, and tactile illusions.

    Kind of like a virtual experience.

    "I''ll try it."

    Nodding, Yooil frowned at a sudden thought.

    Why haven''t they informed me about this until now?

    We willmence Background Immersion'' for Scene 21.

    In that moment, Yooil''s vision was engulfed in white.

    * * *

    Han Yooil slowly blinked.

    Gradually, his vision started to clear.

    "This is"

    It was a cafe.

    Moreover, it was a cafe identical to the set he had been filming in until yesterday.

    The cafe from the 1980s where Kiwoon and Jinhee met and conversed, without the surrounding film equipment and staff members constantly watching over him.

    Yooil surveyed the interior, with its checkered tablecloths and red thick chairs lined up. In the center of the cafe, an unnamed singer was performing a folk song with a guitar.

    Yooil slowly sat down on a chair. It felt just like sitting on any ordinary chair. He raised his hand and gently brushed the tablecloth.

    "Is all of this an illusion?"

    It wasn''t just about seeing the background; it felt like he had truly entered into it.

    While Yooil was astonished by the incredible sight, someone approached him.

    Upon seeing the face, Yooil inhaled sharply.

    "!"

    A woman was walking toward him. A woman with a bob cut, wearing an elegant, light purple dress, slowly entering the cafe.

    Despite her quick and confident steps, her expression was anxious.

    "This is Jinhee,'' as Yooil imagined while reading the script."

    Jinhee was the face of a young Ha Sunwook.

    The Jinhee'' Yooil had admired and seen numerous times was right before his eyes.

    "We meet again here."

    As Jinhee spoke, Yooil responded without realizing.

    The lines of Kiwoon,'' which he had recited over and over, flowed from his lips.

    "I have been waiting for you."

    "You were waiting for me?"

    "Jinhee."

    "Please don''t say any more."

    Jinhee coldly responded and cast her gaze towards the window. Yooil followed her gaze outside. Where there was once a green screen in the set, he could now see the scenery beyond the window in full.

    A woman with permed hair and wide pants passed by, and a man with round,rge sses. A yellow personal taxi drove by on the narrow road. As Yooil watched the passersby, he slowly opened his mouth.

    "Have you ever traveled?"

    At Yooil''s question, Jinhee''s eyes slightly wavered. After a moment''s hesitation, she slowly spoke.

    "Yes. With my family, when I was young."

    "Go with me too."

    "What are you talking about"

    Startled, Jinhee looked around, but no one was paying attention to them. Yooil was about to continue his line when suddenly his breathing becamebored.

    !''

    Yooil felt dizzy and leaned on the table.

    Heart rate down 19 bpm. Body temperature down 1.5C. Oxygen saturation at 93.8%. Be cautious of hypoxia. Terminating Background Immersion'' for Scene 21.

    As Brion''s voice sounded, Yooil''s vision went dark.

    Han Yooil slowly opened his eyes. The scenery of the 1980s he had just seen vanished, reced by a practice room covered in mirrors.

    "Ha."

    A breath he didn''t realize he was holding escaped from Yooil.

    It felt like he had woken up from a long dream.

    Yooil slowly stood up, but as soon as he put weight on his legs, they gave way.

    Excessive use of Background Immersion'' can lead to fatigue, hypoxia, headaches, and chest pain.

    So that''s why they hadn''t mentioned it until now.

    Yooil looked at his reflection in the mirror. Hisplexion was far from good.

    <i>But''</i>

    Never before had he acted with all his senses so heightened.

    It seemed like through this, he might find the key to fully immerse himself in his acting.

    "Can''t do it often, though."

    Yooil gave up trying to stand andy down on the floor.

    <i>I should feel better after some rest.''</i>

    But then, an unexpected voice was heard.

    "Yooil?"

    Kim Suna was standing at the entrance of the practice room.

    Pale as a ghost.

 Chapter 76:

    Chapter 76:

    Yooil, lying on the floor, looked up at Kim Suna''s face. It wasn''t the best situation. Kim Suna''s usually fair skin was turning pale as if it were a nk sheet of paper.

    <i>This is problematic.''</i>

    Yooil tried to keep his face as calm as possible while looking at Kim Suna. She still had a pale face, but soon collected herself andposed her expression.

    Before Kim Suna could ask if he was okay, Han Yooil decided to take the initiative.

    "I was just resting, senior."

    "I saw you fall."

    Yooil responded without changing his expression.

    "I got a cramp in my leg."

    Kim Suna looked at Yooil with narrowed eyes, clearly skeptical of his words.

    Yooil sighed lightly.

    It was clear to him that his response was not convincing.

    <i>I don''t know.''</i>

    Yooil slightly turned his head and took a deep breath.

    As he spoke, his breathing unintentionally started to get rough.

    "Are you really okay?"

    Yooil closed his mouth and barely nodded in response to Kim Suna''s question.

    You need to stabilize, Yooil.

    <i>I know.''</i>

    Kim Suna still looked at Yooil with concern.

    "I''m fine, you don''t need to worry about me."

    At that, Kim Suna''s gaze became even more puzzled.

    Taking deep breaths gradually eased his churning stomach. Yooil, who barely managed to sit up, slowly opened his mouth.

    "Did youe to practice?"

    Kim Suna nodded vaguely. It was then that Yooil noticed she was holding something in her hand.

    "Actually, I heard you were practicing here."

    Kim Suna ced a takeaway cup and a sandwich at the entrance of the practice room.

    Yooil muttered a word of thanks and thought to himself,

    <i>I''ll have to be more careful from now on.''</i>

    As soon as Kim Suna left, Yooily down on the floor again.

    He resolved never to practice Background Immersion'' in the practice room again.

    * * *

    The very next day.

    On the set of <Jinhee>, the assistant director, sitting next to Director Won Heesu, was checking every small element of the caf set, waiting for the call time.

    "Actors, please stand by~!"

    As the actors in the waiting room took their ces, the shooting soon began.

    The scene to be filmed today was where the two characters met again in the caf, having a conversation filled withplex emotions.

    "Camera roll-"

    "Action!"

    With thatmand, the two actors became Kiwoon and Jinhee.

    Kiwoon, staring intently at Jinhee, starts the conversation.

    "Ms. Jinhee."

    Jinhee, biting her lips, slowly continues.

    "It seems like a bad game is bing popr among young people these days."

    "What are you-"

    "Is it fun to charm a married woman? Does it suit your taste?"

    The assistant director, watching Seo Hyunju''s Jinhee,'' quietly swallowed.

    She was well aware of Seo Hyunju''s acting skills. However, with every shoot, the assistant director was newly amazed.

    <i>This is incredible.''</i>

    The bnce of calmness and anxiety in her expressions and gestures, and even the old-fashioned Seoul dialect of the 1980s.

    With every shoot, she increasingly became Jinhee.''

    <i>I see why the director initially thought of her as the first choice.''</i>

    The assistant director quietly marveled and fixed her gaze on the monitor.

    "Do I look like an easy person to you? You''re mistaken. I''m not someone to be taken lightly."

    Yooil slowly opened his mouth in response to Jinhee''s words, and his reply was unexpected.

    "If you tell me to leave, I will."

    <i>!''</i>

    A cold tone flowed from his mouth, so icy it felt like it could burn.

    Kiwoon slowly lifted his head.

    "But"

    His firm gaze was directed at Jinhee.

    "Why do I hear something different in what Ms. Jinhee is saying?"

    It was a challenging look,pletely different from the submissive and affectionate demeanor Kiwoon'' had shown until now.

    The assistant director, who was watching the monitor with the director, inadvertently took a breath.

    It was as if he himself had be Jinhee, and his heart felt a sharp sting.

    <i>What''s this?''</i>

    The assistant director looked at Han Yooil with a surprised face.

    Of course, he had seen him act in the same studio a few days ago, so he knew. Yooil was fundamentally a good actor.

    <i>That look in his eyes isn''t in the script.''</i>

    If his memory served him correctly, he hadn''t shown such a gaze even during the script reading.

    But, surprisingly, it suited the scene.

    <i>Ah, this is waking me up''</i>

    In fact, <Jinhee> could feel monotonous, even boring, due to its tranquility.

    This was because most scenes progressed through dialogue, and the characters were not varied.

    Instead of sensational visuals, the movie relied solely on acting and direction.

    The assistant director hadn''t even hoped that <Jinhee> would exceed a million views. It wasn''t a film made withmercial intent from the start.

    But

    <i>Maybe this will work?''</i>

    If the main actors continue to perform this well.

    "Cut!"

    Director Won Heesu was also satisfied. Director Won looked at Yooil with a smile lifting the corners of her mouth.

    "Hey, what''s going on? You''ve really hit your stride today."

    She continued with her characteristic yful smile.

    Seo Hyunju also quietly approached Yooil during the break.

    "You seem much morefortable today."

    Thanks to the good results from the first scene, the shooting proceeded in a warmer atmosphere than usual.

    Meanwhile, Yooil also felt it.

    <i>It''s definitely different.''</i>

    It was a different feeling from the acting he had done in the studio before.

    The 1980s caf he had observed through Background Immersion,'' and the moment he met and acted with Jinhee in it. It was just a short experience, but still an unforgettable sensation.

    The only regret was that it had been too brief.

    If only he could do it for a longer time, might he achieve a different result?

    This is not a training you can do every day.

    Brion, reading Yooil''s thoughts, spoke as if to warn him.

    <i>I can do it three times a week.''</i>

    Instead of replying to his words, Brion chose silence.

    * * *

    "Thank you for your work!"

    After the shooting ended, the staff brightly responded to Yooil''s greetings.

    "By the way, Yooil! I''m really enjoying that Wandering Theater Troupe!"

    "Right. I''m totally looking forward to episode 3!"

    Yooil smiled at the words of the production team staff.

    "I''m d you find it entertaining."

    "You''ve seen it too, right?"

    "Ah, of course, he must have!"

    Yooil gave an ambiguous smile.

    "Don''t tell me you haven''t watched it yet?"

    "Haha."

    Of course, Han Yooil had yet to watch the broadcasted version. However, thanks to Jin Hayoung and his colleagues continuously sending him television screenshots and various memes created after the broadcast, he was aware of how the shooting had been portrayed.

    In the midst of staff members insisting that he should watch it immediately, Seo Hyunju quietly joined in.

    "It''s interesting, the Wandering Theater Troupe."

    "!"

    "And your acting was good."

    Overwhelmed by sudden embarrassment, Yooil scratched his head.

    "Look, the actor is getting shy!"

    "What''s going on~"

    The staff, excited about not having a shoot the next day, each started to chip in with theirments.

    "Rest well, and I''ll see you at the next shoot."

    "Right, you too, actor!"

    "By the way, what are you doing tomorrow, actor?"

    Yooil answered gently.

    "I''m going to school."

    * * *

    Yooil took the subway to school for the first time in a while. Thanks to his hat and mask, nobody recognized him.

    A few minutes'' walk from the subway station brought him to the main gate.

    <i>It''s been quite a while since I''ve been to a lecture hall.''</i>

    All the orientations for the lectures had ended, and the real sses were about to start.

    The lecture Yooil was attending today was Introduction to Screeny Writing.'' As soon as he entered the lecture hall, the eyes of about twenty students were fixed on Yooil.

    He bowed to the students and then sat at the back of the room.

    Soon, the lecture began.

    "A feature screeny can be divided into three acts, and it consists of a total of eight sequences."

    The projector turned on, and a chart appeared on the screen.

    "Writing a screeny, especially a feature-length screeny, is like building a structure. You have to stack the pirs correctly. And that pir is the structure."

    The professor pointed at the chart on the screen and continued speaking.

    "In Act 1, you need to exin the situation of the protagonist and present the central problem of the story. You have to show an incident that entangles the character in the story and arouse curiosity about how the protagonist can solve the problem."

    Yooil, intrigued, started jotting down notes on what appeared on the screen.

    <i>Interesting.''</i>

    He had never formally learned about ywriting, but he had asionally thought about writing something new, so he had been eager to attend this lecture.

    "So, in this lecture, we aim to write up to the first act of a feature screeny."

    As the students answered in unison, the professor smiled and looked around the lecture hall.

    "Well, that''s it for today''s lecture, but"

    As students started to pack their bags here and there, the professor raised his hand to stop them. Then, he looked around and asked,

    "I''ll ask just one question before we finish. What makes a good screeny?"

    Someone raised their hand.

    "An interesting screeny?"

    "Interest, that''s an answer."

    "A structurally solid screeny!"

    "Yes, that could be it too."

    The professor nodded and then looked straight at Yooil and asked,

    "How about Han Yooil? From the perspective of someone who actually reads and performs screenys?"

    Oohs andughter erupted among the students.

    <i>Ah.''</i>

    Feeling his face heat up, Yooil slowly opened his mouth.

    "At least for me, a good screeny seems to be one that makes you think I want to act this out'' even as you''re reading it."

    "Hmm"

    After hearing Yooil''s answer, the professor nodded with a smile.

    "That''s an important point. In a nutshell, it requires a hook.'' So, what kind of screeny makes an actor want to act'' in it?"

    The professor nced at the students with a smile and then spoke.

    "We''ll continue from there next time. You all did well today."

    The students, who were looking at the professor with anticipation, slowly started to rise from their seats with a hint of disappointment.

    "Excuse me, I''m really sorry to ask, but can I take just one picture with you?"

    "Oh, me too"

    After a brief photo session, Yooil finally managed to leave the lecture hall.

    <i>Maybe it''s because it''s been a while since I attended a lecture in person.''</i>

    He found the lecture satisfying, even though the idea of writing part of a feature screeny was a bit daunting.

    Yooil left the campus feeling a mix of anticipation and concern.

    * * *

    That evening, the university''smunity boards were flooded with posts from people who had spotted Han Yooil.

    - OMG

    [Spotted Han Yooil today]

    Seriously?!!?!?!

    Where? Share your location, please

    I saw him attending a lecture at Ilchun Hall

    I wish I could attend the same lecture

    Yooil He wouldn''t attend a lecture at the engineering school just for fun, would he?

    Nah, he wouldn''t

    Is it true that Han Yooil was there?

    [Right now]

    Can I still see him if I go to the university now?

    He''s already left

    (Photo)

    Wanted to get an autograph but couldn''t even speak to him

    The vibe is crazy

    Isn''t he getting more handsome as time goes by?

    "That''s enough."

    Yooil said with an embarrassed face, and the translucent window vanished instantly.

    He stretched briefly and then stood in the living room.

    Shall we start now?

    Yooil nodded and slowly closed his eyes. Brion''s calm voice filled the room.

    Initiating Background Immersion'' for Scene 53.

    * * *

    Yooil engaged in Background Immersion'' training more than three times a week. There were about five instances where he nearly fainted in front of Min Woojin, but fortunately, he managed to get through without being noticed.

    Thanks to that, the shooting of <Jinhee> proceeded smoothly without major NGs (No Goods).

    Time flew swiftly, and before they knew it, thest day of shooting for <Jinhee> had arrived.

 Chapter 77:

    Chapter 77:

    "Props team, please double-check this list!"

    "Change the battery on the second camera, please~"

    Yooil slowly looked around the bustling set.

    <i>It''s really the end.''</i>

    The moment when he first met Director Won Heesu felt like just yesterday.

    Because of the Background Immersion'' training, it felt like he had lived as Kiwoon for much longer than the actual acting period.

    Today was indeed Yooil''sst shooting day for <Jinhee>, but it wasn''t the final day of the entire shooting. Precisely speaking, it was thest shooting day for Kiwoon.''

    There were still scenes left for Seo Hyunju and Gu Ilhwan to shoot, but the atmosphere on set was as if it was the veryst day of shooting.

    "Come on, you guys~ We still have a long way to go~ Get energized, okay?" Director Won Heesu encouraged the production team.

    Yooil felt the same sense of farewell but didn''t show it.

    "Yooil, let''s do our best until the very end~"

    At Director Won''s words, Yooil nodded.

    After the camera setup wasplete, Won Heesu looked at the monitor and shouted loudly.

    "Action~!"

    * * *

    As soon as Jinhee opened the gate, she stepped back at the sight of the young man before her.

    A wave of emotion gradually swept over Kiwoon''s face as he faced Jinhee.

    "You''ve been waiting for me."

    Kiwoon''s eyes began to quiver slightly, his face filled with joy.

    The intensity of his gaze was enough to leave the onlookers breathless.

    The deep, burning emotions hidden in his eyes began to stir, emotions flowing out like sparks catching fire one by one.

    Kiwoon''s face, struggling to swallow his nervousness, was captured perfectly by the camera.

    Kiwoon, who had been acting like a shattered mirror'' due to Jinhee''s tumultuous emotions, finally began to find his own voice as the end approached.

    "What exactly do you know about me?"

    At Jinhee''s question, Kiwoon replied as if he had been waiting for this moment, with a dreamy expression.

    "When you''re happy, you hum Autumn Mist.'' You write in the middle of the night when everyone else is asleep."

    Kiwoon continued passionately.

    "If you see a cat while passing by, you can''t leave its side for a while."

    Listening to Kiwoon''s words, Jinhee''s vision began to blur.

    "You"

    Jinhee, barely catching her breath, continued. Her eyes, on the verge of tears, looked at Kiwoon.

    "Whenever you make that face, I feel like I, as a person, am being bleached away."

    There it was.

    The most famous line from <Jinhee>.

    The assistant director, watching from beyond the camera, bit his lip to not sigh at Seo Hyunju''s delivered line. It felt like reading someone''s intimate diary, even though it was clearly an act.

    <i>It''s amazing every time.''</i>

    Before the camera rolled, they were polite rookie actors and elegant leading actors, but once the shot began, it felt like watching two individuals living in the 1980s.

    Then, Kiwoon reached out his hand.

    "I have already disappeared. From the moment I met you."

    Jinhee did not avoid his pale hand.

    "Please, don''t cry."

    Kiwoon''s hand gently brushed Jinhee''s face, and sparkling tears clung to his fingertips.

    And then, their shadows ovepped as one.

    The production crew, as if on cue, held their breath.

    Their love was not bright and cheerful.

    Rather, like a dimming light hanging in their background, it was about to disappear, poignantly fleeting.

    The assistant director felt an involuntary twinge in his nose. Knowing the ending of the story only intensified the poignancy of the moment. The love story of the two characters was never meant to be a walk through blossoming flowers. After their hearts finally met, Kiwoon disappeared, and Jinhee was left with her own novel where Kiwoon'' was the protagonist.

    <i>I can''t wait to see the edited version of the film.''</i>

    The assistant director was already excited about seeing the finished film, though he knew the editing process would be more grueling than the shooting itself.

    <i>To hell with it. What''s the big deal?''</i>

    By now, the assistant director had grown ustomed to the rigors of the process.

    * * *

    "Yooil, you really did a great job~"

    Everyone nodded at Director Won Heesu''s words.

    At the beginning of the pre-production for <Jinhee>, many had been skeptical about who could possibly take on the role of Kiwoon.'' But the man standing before them had put all those doubts to rest.

    "Actor, you''reing to the after-party, right?!"

    "Or juste to the set to hang out!"

    Yooil warmly acknowledged the staff, exchanging greetings with each one.

    "Yooil."

    Seo Hyunju, watching Yooil from a distance, called out to him with her deep, resonant voice.

    "You''ve really worked hard, truly."

    She didn''t add anything else, but Yooil knew what she meant.

    "It''s all thanks to you, senior."

    It wasn''t a lie; it was Seo Hyunju who had led him to start training with Background Immersion.''

    However, Seo Hyunju firmly replied,

    "That can''t be true."

    She looked at Yooil with soft eyes.

    There was so much she wanted to ask him. Questions that were difficult to voice right then.

    "You''reing to the after-party, right?"

    That''s all she could ask for now.

    "Of course."

    Yooil replied with a refreshing smile.

    "It''s been an honor to act alongside you, senior."

    "Likewise."

    Seo Hyunju watched Yooil walking towards his van and muttered,

    "He still doesn''t know."

    He didn''t realize the extent of what he had achieved.

    * * *

    Min Woojin, who had been waiting at the set, greeted Yooil with a relieved expression.

    "You''ve worked hard on the shoot, Yooil!"

    He started the car and handed Yooil an iced Americano.

    Progress towards the 3rd phase goal: 73.1%

    As Yooil sipped his coffee and looked at the progress rate, Woojin suddenly spoke.

    "It''s a relief."

    "What is?"

    "Now you can get some rest!"

    "Hmm."

    Seeing Yooil''s expression, Min Woojin narrowed his eyes.

    "What''s with that reaction?"

    Just as Yooil was getting used to Background Immersion,'' he felt too reluctant to take a break from it.

    "I''ll read some scripts during my break, hyung."

    Min Woojin looked at him with a weary face.

    "Just so you know, reading scripts isn''t really taking a break."

    Yooil had to spend quite some time soothing Min Woojin, who was almost tearful,ining about how everyone from the CEO to the manager would make life difficult for him.

    "By the way, Yooil, your phone kept ringing, so I turned it off. It seemed like MiTalk notifications."

    "Ah thanks, hyung."

    Yooil turned on his phone and checked MiTalk.

    The flood of notifications was from his ssmates'' chat group.

    Korean Studies Kang Hana: (emoticon of dying)

    Korean Studies Hwang Riu: (emoticon of soul leaving body)

    The ssmates'' chat was filled with Kang Hana and Hwang Riupeting in posting groaning emoticons.

    Korean Studies Kim Jinwoo: What''s this?

    Korean Studies Kim Jinwoo: 693 notifications and they were all from you guys?

    Korean Studies Kim Jinwoo: Why are you doing this to me?

    Kang Hana and Hwang Riu were buried under their term projects, so it was somewhat natural for the chat to be filled with tears and worn-out emoticons.

    Korean Studies Kim Jinwoo: I wish I could do my projects instead of going to the gym

    Korean Studies Kang Hana: Ah..^^ Sorry

    Korean Studies Hwang Riu: Hang in there

    Korean Studies Kim Jinwoo: ..

    While Kim Jinwoo was sending various types of curses to his two ssmates, Kang Hana asked Yooil a question.

    Korean Studies Kang Hana: Yooil! Have you done your assignments? What about the screeny?

    Yooil left a brief reply.

    Yeah.

    Korean Studies Hwang Riu: Curious about the screeny

    Korean Studies Kim Jinwoo: Me too!

    <i>Maybe it''s okay to send it.''</i>

    He was a bit embarrassed, but it was a screeny he had worked hard on, staying up nights.

    Yooil uploaded the screeny file he had saved on his phone to the chat.

    (The Day Without Hands.pdf)

    It was a two-page outline and a short screeny of about 15 pages.

    Immediately, the number 3 disappeared.

    Korean Studies Hwang Riu: Huh

    Korean Studies Kim Jinwoo: ????

    Korean Studies Kim Jinwoo: Did you write this?

    Korean Studies Kang Hana: How did y wr ths

    <i>?''</i>

    While Yooil was trying to decode Kang Hana''s message, his phone rang. It was a call from Kang Hana.

    As soon as he answered the call, a loud voice sted through the phone.

    Did you really write this?!

    "Yeah."

    He had received Brion''s help in outlining the plot. But the subject, the protagonist, and the ending were all his own ideas.

    You, you''ve never written a screeny before?

    "No. Never."

    More iprehensible words came through the phone, including some swear words, which were rareing from Kang Hana.

    Is it that bad?

    Yooil, feeling a bit deted, replied.

    "Feel free to give feedback. I was nning to revise it anyway."

    What?! No, it''s not that. It''s just I feel like trash no, that''s not what I mean.

    Kang Hana cleared her throat and then said,

    The subject is really good. I had a simr story in mind, but yours is better.

    Yooil''s eyes widened a bit, not expecting such positive feedback.

    The protagonist sees a ghost in the house where they lived, and it turns out the ghost is their unjustly deceased friend and then the protagonist starts to unravel the mystery to help the friend. It''s intriguing, not awkward at all. The characters are vivid. The hook could be a bit better, but that''s something that can be improved with a few more details This is just about a quarter of the whole screeny, right?

    Kang Hana continued to list the positives for a while before adding with a sigh,

    You''re lucky, Yooil.

    "If you like it, you can write it."

    It''s so good even after reading it again huh?

    Kang Hana''s voice cracked.

    Yooil continued calmly,

    "It''s just an assignment I submitted. I don''t mind. I wasn''t nning to write the full screeny anyway."

    But!

    "I mean it."

    It was a screeny he wouldn''t use anyway.

    It wasn''t that he didn''t enjoy writing. Yooil did find fulfillment and pleasure in doing the assignment.

    But it wasn''t the same as acting.

    After a brief silence, Kang Hana cautiously spoke,

    Really?

    She asked Yooil several times.

    And then she hung up the phone, emphasizing that she would never omit Yooil''s name from the screeny if she decided to finish it.

    <i>That''s not necessary.''</i>

    Well, if that made Kang Hana feel better, then so be it.

    After ending the call, Yooil was startled by Min Woojin''s gaze through the rearview mirror.

    "You

    Min Woojin looked like he had a lot to say, his lips twitching, but then he shook his head.

    "Never mind"

    Why is he acting like that?

    Yooil, confused, put down his phone.

    But soon, he had to pick it up again.

    Yooil hyung!!!

    "Yooil is getting a lot of calls today."

    Min Woojinughed and turned the steering wheel.

    Yooil focused on Harang''s voiceing through the phone.

    "What''s up?"

    I''m really sorry to ask you this all of a sudden, but

    <i>A favor?''</i>

    Yooil''s brows furrowed at the unusually subdued tone of Harang''s voice.

    Can you help me out just this once, hyung?

    And the next words out of Harang''s mouth made Min Woojin react even before Yooil could.

    "What?! What did you say?!"

 Chapter 78:

    Chapter 78:

    Min Woojin parked the car on the shoulder and turned to Yooil with a shocked expression.

    What did you just say?!

    Even amidst the surprise, Kim Harang greeted them cheerfully.

    Kim Harang quickly and clearly exined the situation. The summary of what Harangmunicated to Yooil was as follows:<ol><li><ol><li><ol><li><ol><li> There was a web variety show appearance scheduled for tomorrow evening.</li></ol></li></ol></li></ol></li></ol><ol><li><ol><li><ol><li><ol><li> It was a show where he needed to appear with a friend, and he had nned to go with Ji Eunho.</li></ol></li></ol></li></ol></li></ol><ol><li><ol><li><ol><li><ol><li> Ji Eunho, along with all other members of ck Sea, had fallen ill with a flu that required istion.</li></ol></li></ol></li></ol></li></ol><ol><li><ol><li><ol><li><ol><li> Kim Harang didn''t have any other celebrity friends (specifically, none without a schedule for the next day).</li></ol></li></ol></li></ol></li></ol>

    Brion quickly added additional information:

    The show is called Seven Nights,''monly referred to as Chilbam.'' It''s one of the web variety shows that have sprung up recently, where light-hearted conversations are held over snacks and light drinks. Chilbam'' is particrly popr among younger audiences. The channel currently has 890,000 subscribers.

    "Chilbam?! The one on OTube?"

    Oh! Yes, that''s the one, manager!

    Min Woojin quickly pulled out his phone, thinking he should contact the agency.

    The manager said if they can''t find someone within an hour, they''ll have to bring someone from our agency a junior

    "Ah."

    Yooil suddenly remembered something. Was it when they went to Vietnam? He had overheard something. He remembered hearing that Harang had some issues with junior members of a boy group.

    He didn''t know the details as he hadn''t asked, but it seemed there had been some major and minor incidents.

    "I don''t have any special schedule tomorrow."

    Really?!

    Min Woojin, who had quickly contacted thepany, slowly nodded. It seemed thepany also saw no downside to this arrangement.

    The probability of achieving positive oues is 76.1%

    <i>Brion thinks so too.''</i>

    Then there was even less reason not to go.

    Yooil readily agreed to Harang''s request.

    Yes!

    Harang''s excited voice rang through the phone.

    * * *

    Despite thest-minute change, the rumor that Han Yooil was stepping in as a guest on Chilbam'' spread quickly.

    Next week''s Chilbam guest lineup is hot

    [Insider info: next week''s Chilbam guests are Kim Harang X Han Yooil]

    Huh? Weren''t the ck Sea members supposed to appear?

    Seems like they had to cancel their schedule because of the flu

    Oh no, Ji Eunho got the flu?

    Yeah, except for Harang, all ck Sea members are down

    But about Chilbam

    [It''s so sad that ck Sea members are ill but honestly, I''m kind of excited about the Han Yooil and Kim Harangbo..]

    Me too..

    22..

    33 Still watching the behind-the-scenes of Singin'' High

    You too? Me too

    They get along so well, it''s really nice to see

    They''re harmless and funny when together..

    Is Han Yooil a gag character too?

    No, just his face is funny

    Of course, not all reactions were positive.

    So ridiculous

    [The guys are sick and suffering, and you''re all excited Are all fans of that actor so selfish? I used to like him because of his acting, but this is a turn-off]

    Fortunately, ck Sea''s fans, seasoned through years of fandom and ustomed to dealing with trolls, along with Han Yooil''s fans, who were excited about the new tidbit, didn''t easily cave to such provocations.

    Huh.. I''ve never seen anyone speak so negatively, why are you so mad?

    What''s this?

    Bug off

    Just ignore them^^ ck Sea fans support actor Han Yooil~

    * * *

    The program was led by Ha Inju, a singer in her 30s with numerous hit songs and recently active as a panelist in various shows.

    Don''t be too nervous, hyung. Just think of it as having fun.

    Kim Harang meticulously briefed Yooil on several matters.

    Though Yooil already knew quite a bit, thanks to Brion, including some points that needed special attention.

    However, Yooil paid close attention to Harang''s tips. It couldn''t hurt to be well-informed.

    Soon Yooil''s van arrived at the underground parking lot.

    "We''re here~"

    "Thanks. I''m sorry you couldn''t rest because of me."

    "I''m getting paid to work, what''s the big deal!"

    Han Yooil couldn''t help but nod at the professionalism of the working world.

    JJ Entertainment was known for treating its managers wellpared to otherpanies.

    He heard they not only got a good sry but also received substantial bonuses.

    "Still, I appreciate it, hyung."

    After Yooil''s appearance on Chilbam'' was confirmed, Manager Jang Jaeyi had wanted to assign other team members to apany him. It was Han Yooil who adamantly refused.

    Woojin hyung is reliable enough.

    Min Woojin''s spirits soared even higher at those words.

    "Fighting! Don''t drink too much!"

    Yooil entered the set, taking in Woojin''s encouragement and concerns.

    <i>Is this the ce?''</i>

    The set was a cozy bar that could fit around ten people.

    The production team was modest: MC Ha Inju, the main PD, two directors of photography, sound and lighting directors, and two assistant writers cum PDs.

    Though Singin'' High'' had also premiered on OTube, it ultimately aimed for Newblix, so the production team and budget weren''t much different from typical dramas.

    Thus, excludingmercials or promotional content for the agency, this was Yooil''s first appearance on OTube content.

    It''s going to be fun.''

    Yooil greeted Ha Inju and the staff one by one before taking his seat.

    Ha Inju wore a headband with eye-catching character motifs, her hair tied in pigtails. Every time she moved, rainbow colors sparkled from the white cat faces on her headband.

    Caught off guard by the headband, Yooil snapped back to reality when a high-pitched voice hit his eardrums.

    "Oh my! You look even better in person than on screen~ You''re glowing!"

    As rumored, Ha Inju was a lively person.

    "Let''s get started~ One, two, three!"

    The shooting began with her pping her hands as a makeshift te.

    "Today, the news about our guest has everyone excited, you know? Even Yesol came fully made up today Oh, Yesol! Did you even put on fake eyshes?"

    The youngest writer, Yesol, hid behind the director of photography, covering her mouth.

    "Oh, don''t get me wrong. I just had drinks with Yesol a few days ago. We''re close~"

    "We are?"

    "Hey!"

    Even the banter among the staff was enough to show how close they were.

    <i>I get the vibe now.''</i>

    Not too heavy, just fun.

    The atmosphere was very much like the clips Brion had shown him.

    "Here, we have Hanwoo beef that Harang likes and Doenjang Jjigae that Yooil likes!"

    "Wow~"

    As Kim Harang cheerfully apuded, Ha Inju shook bottles of soju and beer with a bright smile.

    "So how much can everyone drink?"

    And so the drinking part of the show began.

    * * *

    "We have a lot of questions for you today."

    Ha Inju pulled out a whiteboard with Which Star Did You Come From?'' scribbled on it in a hasty handwriting. Each episode threw a topic into the conversation, and they tried to reach a conclusion through all sorts of talks. Odd questions, a stream of consciousness conversation, and ending by painting the wall in their favorite color.

    Typical of a drinking show.''

    "So, Yooil, you recently had a birthday, right?"

    "Yes, it''s been about two months."

    "What did Harang do for your birthday?"

    "Well couldn''t do much. Our schedules shed"

    "Ahh, right, you were busy then~ Harang, you were doing unit activities with Woosin and Yeonho at the time, right?"

    Harang nodded shyly, unlike his usual self. Yooil, watching Harang with narrowed eyes, said,

    "No, that''s not true. Harang sent me quite a few things personally."

    "Really?! What did he send you?"

    "Hanwoo set and an air purifier"

    "Wow, look at that! I never thought Harang was so generous!"

    "Ah, no!! The air purifier was a housewarming gift!"

    Despite Harang''s attempts to deny being so generous, it didn''t seem to have much effect.

    The conversation moved on to Harang''s unit activities and their future ns.

    Ha Inju looked at Yooil and Harang alternately, her voice taking a tone.

    "Honestly, tell me. Neither of you are from Korea, right?"

    She then tapped the whiteboard.

    "Which star did youe from? Spill the beans."

    <i>Hmm.''</i>

    What to do.

    He hadn''t really thought about a serious answer. It had only been a day since he agreed toe on the show.

    Instead of pondering an answer, Yooil locked eyes with Ha Inju and yfully smiled.

    "Guess."

    But suddenly, upon making eye contact with Yooil, Ha Inju turned her head.

    "Ack!"

    ?''

    "Why are you looking at me like that!"

    As Yooil looked at her puzzled, she covered her eyes with one hand.

    "No, no don''t look at me like that!"

    "Why?"

    As Yooil widened his eyes and leaned forward slightly, Ha Injupletely covered her face with both hands and turned away from him.

    <i>Why the?''</i>

    Yooil, clueless, looked around at the staff who were all smiling.

    The second camera focused intently on Yooil''s confused expression.

    <i>This is meme material.''</i>

    The director of photography, with a knack for the industry, sensed that this scene would be quite popr in short-form content.

    Perhaps due to the alcohol, Ha Inju''s face was slightly flushed. She cautiously spoke up.

    "Have you never heard that term before?"

    "What?"

    "Guilty human?"

    "What?"

    Yooil felt a bit tense at Ha Inju''s lowered voice, but rxed asughter erupted among the staff again.

    "I haven''t heard that one yet."

    "Whaat? I heard about it! Manager, isn''t Yooil a guilty human''?"

    <i>He''s drunk.''</i>

    Yooil quietly poured the drink from Harang''s ss into his own. Luckily, Harang seemed too engrossed in his own story to notice his drink disappearing.

    * * *

    After about 40 minutes of filming.

    Yooil thought they were drinking slowly, but already two bottles of soju were almost empty.

    Harang''s eyes had started to get a bit blurry. Thanks to the watchful eyes of the manager, though, he seemed to be keeping it together.

    Ha Inju maintained her high energy, an impressive feat indeed.

    "Yooil, you were thinking about preparing for the civil service exams, right? Did you go to any study academies?"

    "Due to financial reasons, I couldn''t afford academies, so I was preparing on my own."

    "Hyung is really smart! I even learned acting from him~"

    ''

    Yooil once again poured Harang''s drink into his own ss.

    Meanwhile, Ha Inju, who had been admiring Yooil, spoke up.

    "Wow really, Yooil your parents must be so proud."

    <i>!''</i>

    Min Woojin, who had been watchingfortably, suddenly stood up. Without much thought, he rushed over to the PD.

    Yooil''s family situation wasn''t a secret, but it wasn''t widely known among the public either, except to those deeply interested in him. Above all, Min Woojin was most concerned about Yooil''s mental state.

    <i>He''s never been asked a question like this before!''</i>

    The schedule was set up in a hurry, and they hadn''t been able to check all the briefing details thoroughly.

    <i>Of all things''</i>

    Min Woojin swallowed dryly, ming himself.

    As Kim Harang''s expression hardened, Han Yooil remainedposed.

    "Yes, I think they would have been happy."

    Yooil continued slowly.

    "I heard from my aunt that I used to mimic movies and dramas a lot when I was young. I heard that my parents enjoyed watching me do that."

    <i>Am I drunk too?''</i>

    Words he wouldn''t normally say slipped out.

    Sensing the change in atmosphere, Ha Inju turned to the staff. It was only then that she realized the gravity of the situation, and her face turned pale instantly.

 Chapter 79:

    Chapter 79:

    Ha Inju quickly covered her mouth with both hands as her tone dropped suddenly.

    "Really really sorry, Yooil"

    She apologized several times, a stark contrast to her previously tipsy demeanor.

    "Don''t worry about that conversation. Our PD will edit it out."

    The main PD nodded reassuringly.

    ""

    Yooil knew that thepany had been intentionally avoiding questions about his parents to spare him any difort.

    <i>It wasn''t really necessary, though.''</i>

    Yooil, who was quick to pick up on things, especially sympathy,'' realized that the production team was trying not to regard him with pity or sympathy.

    The yellow light softly illuminated the ss in front of Yooil. As he looked at the light, he slowly opened his mouth.

    "It''s okay. It''s a long time ago. It''s not really a secret."

    "Hyung"

    Harang looked at him worriedly, but Yooil nodded slightly to assure him it was okay.

    "You don''t have to edit out what I just said."

    As Yooil locked eyes with the PD and the writers in turn, the main PD approached Yooil and spoke quietly.

    "We''ll try our best to make sure you''re not ufortable, Yooil."

    After the unsettling moment, the filming resumed and concluded better than expected.

    Harang, who seemed to sober up momentarily, ended up leaving the set in a drunken state, escorted by his manager. Yooil, who had ended up drinking most of Harang''s portions, crashed as soon as he got home.

    The next morning, Yooil regretted agreeing to Chilbam'' as he suffered from a hangover.

    <i>But it was fun.''</i>

    He was just a bit curious about how the editing turned out.

    * * *

    A week after Yooilpleted the shooting.

    His fandom was still not over <It''s My First Time with a Wandering Theater Company>. Naturally, the office worker was among them. Their favorite moment in Wandering Theater Company'' was when Chosang'' first came to life. They had lost count of how many times they had rewatched it.

    Dramas were great, movies were great, but for the office worker, Han Yooil''s stage performances were the best.

    <i>My actor really suits the theater the most.''</i>

    While contemting a thought that would have sparked quite a controversy among other fans, the office worker''s attention was caught by an OTube notification.

    "Huh?"

    ["Auntie! Two guilty (alien) humans here~" / A Chill Night]

    !''

    Finally, it was here.

    Han Yooil''s Chilbam''!

    With a fluttering heart, the office worker clicked the link. Saying they had been waiting for it all week wouldn''t be an exaggeration.

    The OTube live chat was brimming with Chilbam'' regrs, ck Sea fans, and people gathered to see Han Yooil.

    It''s starting

    Waited so long I thought my neck would snap

    Juju''s headband from the start lolololol

    Waaahhhhh

    Where are the guests? I only see the light

    Ha Inju''s nickname in Chilbam'' was Juju.'' Regr Chilbam'' viewers usually called Ha Inju, while those who turned on the video for their idols started cheering for their respective favorites.

    The office worker watched the video with a contented smile.

    <i>Why does he look so handsome?''</i>

    They might not be aware if it''s just a feeling, but it seems like Han Yooil has be much more distinct after returning from Berlin. Dressed in a cotton t-shirt with a simple character design and a denim jacket, Han Yooil looked like the kind of college senior'' that would never actually exist in a university. After a brief greeting, the scene where Ha Inju shouts out to Han Yooil with her characteristically resonant voice appears.

    Which star did youe from? Confess quickly.

    Then Han Yooil''s face was close-up.

    Yooil, who had been looking down for a moment, slowly raised his head.

    Then, a yful and affectionate gaze was captured by the camera.

    The live chat, which had been continuously rising, seemed to agree to pause for a moment.

    Try to guess.

    Office workers watching this suppressed a groan and covered their mouths.

    Right after Han Yooil locked eyes with Ha Inju and began to speak, the frozen live chat exploded.

    OMG

    Honey..?

    Mom, I''ve found someone to marry

    Try to guess..drumroll..click Try to guess..drumroll..click Try to guess..drumroll..click Try to guess..drumroll..click Try to guess..drumroll..click

    I never saw Yooil like this before, a dangerous person indeed

    The live chat reaction was not much different from that of the office workers. The office workers couldn''t contain their rising smiles.

    <i>Really came back doing it right''</i>

    It was an editing that clearly showed the production team''s grinding of teeth.

    The close-up shots of Han Yooil and Kim Harang ying around with their hands casually, or Yooil continuously pouring the alcohol from Harang''s ss into his own, also added a subtle fun.

    What, Han Yooil appearing as Kim Harang''s dark knight?

    LOL, poor Harang, doesn''t realize anything while pouring the drink

    Harang must be really drunk.. Haven''t seen her let loose like that in a long time

    They look reallyfortable with each other

    Meanwhile, Ha Inju was diligently fulfilling her role as MC.

    Have you asked your parents which star you came from, Harang?

    Kim Harang, already blushing,ughed hesitantly in response to Ha Inju''s yful question.

    My parents are quite mysterious, they didn''t even tell me.

    Ah! But we have evidence here. We''ve prepared everything.

    Then Ha Inju showed the image captured from the posts that fans uploaded on BlueChat.

    [Is Kim Harang from the genius puppy star?]

    Below the text were pictures of Kim Harang drinking water or jumping, juxtaposed with pictures of puppies.

    Ah~! I know this! The fans showed me.

    Right! Now confess quickly.

    Kim Harangughed hehe and smiled refreshingly.

    Oh~! You caught me.

    Seeing that smile, the office worker once again realized the fact that Kim Harang is an idol.

    <i>I see why he''s popr.''</i>

    It wasn''t the office worker''s taste, but he was definitely cute.

    Yooil, give us a hint. Like a story from when you were young!

    Well, I

    Han Yooil''s contemtive face and Ha Inju''s face were shown in alternating shots.

    It was difficult for the viewers to notice, but the PD of Seven Nights'' subtly changed the order of the conversation,pletely altering the flow of the dialogue. And this editing was most pronounced in this part.

    I heard from my aunt that since I was young, I used to mimic movies and dramas quite well.

    Han Yooil, who slowly opened his mouth, continued to speak calmly with a faint smile.

    I heard my parents liked it.

    They would really like the Yooil of today.

    They would.

    The office worker unknowingly closed their mouth.

    Thinking about it, the fact that Han Yooil had been living alone since he was around 10 was only whispered among fans, and he had never openly spoken about it himself.

    Yooil spoke calmly, but why am I crying

    I love Han Yooil

    Yooil

    While the gentle live chat reactions were a relief, the focus shifted back to Yooil.

    * * *

    The 30-minute segment of Seven Nights'' flew by in an instant.

    "So, the conclusion for today is!"

    Ha Inju added more disheveled writing on the whiteboard.

    [Home of Han Yooil and Kim Harang: Guilty]

    Han Yooil, Kim Harang! You are hereby dered guilty aliens~!

    Wo~

    Should we p for this?

    The scene passed with Kim Harang happily enjoying and Han Yooil pping with an ambiguous expression.

    And the show ended with the two guests leaving their handprints on the wall, one in sky blue and the other in red.

    * * *

    "Yooil, that was so much fun!"

    As Yooil was eating a perfectly ripe strawberry, he looked up at Jin Hayoung''s words. He was having dinner and dessert at Jin Hayoung''s ce.

    "What is it, aunt?"

    Then, Jin Hayoung showed her phone with a smile. The screen disyed a capture of Seven Nights.''

    "I watch this before I go to bed every night."

    "Eh?"

    Seeing Yooil''s startled face, Jin Hayoung startedughing.

    It was then that his phone rang.

    "I''ll take this call."

    Leaving Jin Hayoung''s curious gaze behind, Han Yooil pressed the call button.

    Actor Yooil~ How have you been~?

    "Ah, hello, senior."

    It was Kim Mijin, Yooil''s senior in the Department of Korean Literature and the author of The Last Diner''.

    It had been a while since he heard her voice after filming a movie.

    It''s nice to hear your voice after a long time~ You must be incredibly busy these days, right?

    "Not really. I''m resting after finishing the movie shoot."

    After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Kim Mijin quickly got to the point.

    It''s not about anything else~ I mentioned it before, I''m currently adapting a webtoon into a drama~?

    Yooil had heard about it from a tipsy Kim Mijin at thest gathering. She had moved to a new productionpany and was meticulously reading webtoons that thepany had bought the rights to.

    <i>I want to do my work~ Waaah~''</i>

    Although Kim Mijin was teary-eyed when she said that.

    From the perspective of productionpanies wanting to make money without risk, preferring works with an established fan base was inevitable, and the trend of OSMU (One Source Multi Use) bing more active was unavoidable.

    <i>But she sounds cheerful.''</i>

    Yooil was relieved to hear her buoyant voice, having been a bit worried.

    Kim Mijin continued in her characteristically high-pitched voice.

    Anyway, we''re entering the pre-production phase and starting to cast~

    "!"

    Yooil''s eyes sparkled at those words.

    But the more I think about it~ Yooil, you really fit the image of these characters~!

    <i>If it''s a drama with an original work''</i>

    Brion quickly resolved Yooil''s curiosity.

    Acting a character from a webtoon or other original works also falls under reinterpretation''.

    <i>As expected.''</i>

    Ah, have you heard the title of the webtoon?

    "I''m somewhat familiar with the content."

    The work Kim Mijin was adapting, The Sun and the Moon'', was a fantasy and a fusion historical drama. It was a webtoon that once topped the charts as the number one Wednesday webtoon, plunging everyone into Sun and Moon sickness''.

    <i>It was incredibly popr.''</i>

    Back then, even Han Yooil''s ssmates in high school would gather every Wednesday to chatter about The Sun and the Moon''. Even Yooil, who didn''t usually read webtoons, knew the title for this reason.

    Ah, I''m d you know it!

    Kim Mijin continued her exnation with a bright voice. There were three characters from the original work, and three new characters created for the drama.

    Actually, the lead role has already been decided. It''s a secret, but Kang Hyesung agreed to do it.

    Kang Hyesung.

    He was an actor in histe twenties who started as a stage actor, gaining wide poprity across all ages with his solid acting skills and good looks.

    Thus, there were two roles left for male actors around Yooil''s age.

    One character is a viin from the original work, and the other is a new male lead of a sub-couple added in the adaptation

    Then, Brion interjected.

    Acting a character that does not exist in the original work does not count as reinterpretation''.

    Yooil quickly spoke up.

    "I would like to y a character that exists in the original work."

    Oh, really~?

    Kim Mijin''s voice slightly faltered.

    But I''m a bit worried, personally~

    "What are you worried about?"

    Yooil, you''re not very familiar with the webtoon''s content, right?

    "Yes."

    Kim Mijin spoke cautiously.

    That viin he''s a bit obsessed with the female lead?

    <i>An obsessed character.''</i>

    Not bad.

    <i>It doesn''t ovep with the characters I''ve yed recently.''</i>

    Honestly, it''s my favorite character, but it''s also the most challenging one~

    "Is that so?"

    Yeah. The character is not quite sane~ because

    Kim Mijin spoke slowly.

    he''s a psychopath.

 Chapter 80:

    Chapter 80:

    "I want to try it."

    Hmm~ Good!

    Kim Mijin said she would talk with the director and get back to him, then ended the call.

    <i>A psychopath.''</i>

    As soon as he heard those words, a memory from when Yooil was seventeen years old came to mind.

    Did you read The Sun and the Moon'' this week?

    Of course.

    Yoo Kwon is so handsome

    Yeah, but the main lead is Lee Bin anyway.

    The main lead, Lee Bin, and the secondary lead, Yoo Kwon. Every morning after the webtoon was updated at midnight, the students in the ss would split into Yoo Kwon faction'' and Lee Bin faction'' and engage in heated discussions.

    Praise for Yoo Kwon mostly came from his appearance. Handsome, sexy, and so on

    If I was born in the world of The Sun and the Moon'', I''d follow Yoo Kwon.

    Eh. Even if you''re a fan of looks, that''s a bit

    However, even those who loved Yoo Kwon couldn''t deny one thing.

    Following him might cost you your neck.

    Yoo Kwon, as depicted in The Sun and the Moon'', was a character inherentlycking in empathy. He had no interest in others besides himself.

    Especially when he cruelly killed animals and people without a shred of guilt from a young age, even the Yoo Kwon faction trembled in fear along with other readers.

    Based on an analysis of Yoo Kwon''s'' personality, psychopathic tendencies are prominent in areas excluding cognition, including attachment, behavior, dominance, emotion, and self-perception.

    Yooil nodded at Brion''s words.

    So far, Yooil had never found psychopaths portrayed in media to be charming.

    However, as an actor, he couldn''t deny that the character was tempting as a challenge.

    "First, I''ll contact the manager."

    Yooil was already slightly tired at the thought of the non-reproachful reproach he would receive for not taking a break''.

    * * *

    "Mr. Yooil."

    The next day.

    Yooil, expecting to meet Manager Jang Jaeyi at thepany, was surprised to find President Jang Jaehyun waiting for him.

    "I was under the impression that Mr. Yooil was taking a break."

    Jang Jaehyun sighed as he continued.

    He had been deliberately dying iing advertisement contracts.

    But he hadn''t expected the actor himself to be uncooperative.

    Han Yooil spoke up.

    "I believe I''ve rested enough."

    Jang Jaehyun squinted at Yooil.

    The clear eyes and clean skin made it hard to argue against his words.

    <i>But since the writer contacted directly, there''s nothing much to do.''</i>

    Moreover, The Sun and the Moon'' was a project with quite a lot of fan expectations.

    Many had wanted the webtoon to be dramatized since its serialization, and the news of its dramatization had always been well-received.

    However, as always with the adaptation of works with original material, the biggest advantage and obstacle were the original fans.

    Especially, the role Yooil was to take was a concern.

    I like the idea of dramatizing The Sun and the Moon'' but

    [Who''s going to y Yoo Kwon?]

    Hwang Riu in his 20s

    Jung Yuseong in his early debut

    Lol, do we need a time machine for this

    It''s funny but not funny..

    Am I the only one against the drama adaptation?

    [The thought of watching Yoo Kwon''s lines acted out is already making me lose my appetite]

    Honestly, I agree

    Really, even God Yeongwoo couldn''t save this

    The role of Yoo Kwon was being discussed in the context of a veteran actor like Kim Yeongwoo, who had nearly 40 years of acting experience, being unable to save it.

    "Mr. Yooil, are you sure about this?"

    President Jang''s words made Yooil pause for a moment.

    It would be a lie to say he wasn''t worried.

    However

    "I''m intrigued by the role."

    As Yooil looked at him with a slight smile, Jang Jaehyun raised his hands as if admitting defeat.

    "Then there''s nothing we can do."

    Realizing anew that his actor was someone truly passionate about acting, President Jang picked up his phone with a smile on his lips.

    It was his job to fully support an actor who was so dedicated to his work.

    As he spoke, his voice was smooth yet firm.

    "Yes, I understand."

    * * *

    Kang Hyesung-Lee Bohee-Han Yooil confirmed cast for The Sun and the Moon'' Anticipation

    Popr webtoon The Sun and the Moon'' to be dramatized Director Do Junhwan takes the helm [Official]

    Is this for real??

    Oh, Kang Hyesung and Lee Bohee have consistently been top fan picks, right?

    Han Yooil as Yoo Kwon????

    Wow

    Cast of The Sun and the Moon'' unveiled

    [Looks like they nailed it with Kang Hyesung first]

    Honestly, it''s not perfect, but it seems like the best we could get

    The three of them don''t look bad together

    The original work''s atmosphere is so good, I hope they do it justice in the production

    Please, 22

    The Sun and the Moon'' scheduled to air on KBN in September

    [Was worried about the casting, but the main actors'' acting skills seem top-notch, so looking forward to it]

    22

    333..

    Lee Bohee seems perfect for Yoo Dohwa

    Honestly, the male leads are a bit disappointing

    That''s what everyone says every time there''s a drama adaptation of a webtoon lol

    I was most worried about Yoo Kwon, but Han Yooil doesn''t seem bad

    Agreed

    Han Yooil seems to make good project choices

    While the general reaction was one of surprise, it was mixed, with more cautious than outright positive responses.

    [Interview] The Sun and the Moon'' Original Author Gyeong Soho "Happy about the dramatization utterly satisfied with the casting"

    However, after an article featuring an interview with the webtoon''s author was shared across variousmunities, the reactions became much more favorable.

    Lol, you can tell they really deliberated over the casting

    I''m excited

    Read the interview thoroughly and it''s heartwarming to see the author genuinely satisfied

    Of course, there were still some dissenting posts.

    Am I the only one who thinks the casting is off?

    [Except for the female lead, everyone seems off especially Yoo Kwon.. I get that he''s handsome, but the image doesn''t seem to match]

    The desire to see a beloved work visualized and shared with many, along with the hope that its inherent charm is not diminished but fully revealed, is a sentiment well understood by Yooil.

    I''m not expecting much just hoping they don''t ruin the original story

    Yooil smiled slightly as he read thements disyed by Brion.

    <i>I hope they will have expectations.''</i>

    The desire to perform in a way that doesn''t betray expectations began to sprout deep within Yooil''s heart.

    This burgeoning hope became as significant a driving force as any goal achievement rate.''

    "Yooil, take it easy, okay?"

    "Are you getting enough sleep at night?"

    Despite Min Woojin''s concerns, Yooil continued to rehearse repeatedly.

    Before long, the date for the script reading approached rapidly.

    * * *

    Arriving early, Yooil sat down and began reading his script.

    The set for The Sun and the Moon'' carried an atmosphere quite distinct from the script readings he had been to before.

    As a much-anticipated project of KVN, various journalists from different media outlets were waiting to cover the event.

    Actors cast for the three new characters in the drama adaptation arrived one after the other and took their seats, followed by veteran actors. Among them were actors Yooil had met before.

    "It''s nice to see you again like this. Not as rivals but as a son."

    Gu Ilhwan greeted Yooil yfully with a kind smile.

    "Mr. Yooil! So nice to see you~"

    And Moon Yuhwa greeted him cheerfully.

    The two, cast as Yoo Jungmo and Grand Consort Yeon, respectively, approached Yooil with bright smiles.

    Kwon Mija, observing from the side, quickly scanned the cordial scene between the two prominent actors and Han Yooil.

    <i>Hmm?''</i>

    She turned to speak to Moon Yuhwa, her usually favored junior.

    "Hey, Yuhwa."

    "Yes, senior?"

    "Why are you so cheerful today?"

    "It''s the script, it''s so interesting~"

    Watching Moon Yuhwa''s witty response, Kwon Mija shook her head.

    The actress ying the Grand Queen Dowager, though nearing eighty, had been attending shoots regrly thanks to her rigorous health regimen. And just as good as her self-care was her ability to make quick judgments.

    Kwon Mija made a light assessment of Yooil, who was greeting everyone with a bright smile.

    <i>He''s quite a charming kid.''</i>

    As the time for the script reading drew near, Lee Bohee, a petite woman with long hair, entered the room.

    "Hello~!"

    She greeted everyone in various directions with a cheerful face and soon took her seat in the center. Lee Bohee, known for her solid acting skills and youthful appearance despite nearing thirty, effortlessly portrayed student roles.

    Right on time for the script reading, Kang Hyesung arrived, and greetings began with Director Do Junhwan and writer Kim Mijin. Kim Mijin, showing affection for the cast, added with a gentle smile:

    "I hope this drama shines a light on the darkness many people face~"

    Yooil, sensing the slight tremor in Kim Mijin''s voice, pped sincerely.

    "I''m Lee Bohee, ying Yoo Dohwa. Please look after me."

    After Lee Bohee''s introduction, Kang Hyesung, with a mischievous smile, spoke up.

    "I''m Kang Hyesung, ying the roles of Lee Bin and Prince Seongwon. Please look after me~"

    Then, standing up from his seat, Yooil slowly looked around at the actors. As he faced familiar faces, his heart began to beat a bit faster.

    "I''m Han Yooil, ying the role of Yoo Kwon. I''ll do my best."

    All eyes were fixed on Yooil''s face.

    Theid-back and warm-hearted third prince of the current king, Lee Bin, beloved by all around him. His rival was Yoo Kwon, the adopted son brought by Yoo Dohwa''s father, Yoo Jungmo.

    After the introductions, the actual script reading began.

    "Father!"

    ""

    "Father, father!"

    "So, what is it this time?"

    "I''m curious about the Ojak!"

    "My goodness."

    As Lee Bohee''s lively voice and Gu Ilhwan''s weary tone filled the room, the director''s face lit up with satisfaction.

    Her tone perfectly matched Yoo Dohwa, a curious and bright girl.

    The reading then flowed into a scene where Lee Bin, having secretly left the pce, identally encounters Yoo Dohwa wandering around a grave. Mistaking Yoo Dohwa for a ghost, Lee Bin almost falls over in fright.

    That was their first encounter.

    "Juya."

    "Yes."

    "Am I seeing things?"

    "No, you''re not."

    "Then, that woman she''s really alive?"

    A journalist watching the scene nodded slightly.

    <i>Not bad.''</i>

    Among the young actors, he was known for his acting skills, so there were certain expectations among the journalists.

    Even with those expectations in mind, it was quite an outstanding performance.

    <i>As long as the two leads do well, it''s worth it.''</i>

    Thinking this, the journalist rapidly typed away.

    His perspective shifted slightly when the actor ying Yukwon'' started speaking.

    Before the reading began, Han Yooil sat with a calm face, but once it started, his gaze turned cold and sharp as he meticulously scanned the other actors.

    "There''s a gue spreading."

    As soon as he spoke, the atmosphere immediately became tense.

    "!"

    Only then did the journalist take a closer look at Han Yooil''s face. His eyes resembled a snake eyeing its prey.

    Expectation and yfulness flickered quickly across Yooil''s face, but the lingering light in his eyes didn''t fade easily.

    "Is that, true?"

    The expression that surfaced on his face was one of pure joy.

    A cruel joy that made everyone watching shiver.

    <i>Oh?''</i>

    The journalist, whose eyes were dry from fatigue, blinked and, without realizing it, opened his eyes wide.

 Chapter 81:

    Chapter 81:

    "I heard this is his first time in a historical drama."

    There was no awkwardness in the tone or manner of speaking. Yooil adeptly handled the unique rhythm and intonation of the historical genre.

    Impressive.

    The reporter nodded, observing Yooil. Among the three lead actors, it was true that Yooil was rtivelycking in fame and experience.

    However, judging solely from this script reading, there seemed to be no need topare him to others in terms of acting prowess.

    The reporter described Han Yooil''s passionate performance as follows:

    "He must have received intense training from thepany."

    The reporter continued to focus on Han Yooil.

    Without intending to, the gaze naturally drifted his way. Above all, it was entertaining to watch the changing expressions of the surrounding actors as they delivered their lines. By the time the reading was about to conclude, the reporter had already marked the premiere date on the calendar.

    * * *

    The Sun and the Moon'' A heartwarming script reading session, driving away the summer heat

    The Sun and the Moon'' Behind the scenes of the script reading

    The Sun and the Moon'' A tense acting showdown between Kang Hyesung and Han Yooil

    Oh

    They have better chemistry than I thought.

    Looking at him this way, Han Yooil has quite a cool face He matches well with Yoo Kwon.

    I''m excited.

    "Yooil Are you okay?"

    Yooil turned his head to Min Woojin''s concerned voice while reading the article.

    The shooting started with the onset of the summer heat.

    Actors in thick traditional Hanbok were holding portable fans and ice packs.

    "It feels even hotter looking at you, really."

    "I''m fine."

    The heat was bearable. Rather, he felt sorry for the staff members, drenched in sweat, running around the set.

    Of course, the production team had different thoughts.

    "There''s still time before shooting, so please rest in the van."

    Yooil was ushered toward the van by the directing team, concerned about the condition of the actors.

    That''s when he heard a man''s voice from behind.

    "Actor! Yooil actor!"

    Yooil turned around to the touch on his shoulder.

    A familiar face.

    "Shinwoo?"

    It was Yoon Shinwoo, whom he had met as a lead and a minor role in Sing in High School.'' After the shooting, they followed each other on social media and asionally kept in touch, but this was the first face-to-face meeting since then.

    "It''s really nice to meet you like this."

    Yoon Shinwoo''s words trailed off slightly. Unbeknownst to Yooil, Shinwoo was genuinely moved. He couldn''t acknowledge him during the script reading due to the hectic schedule, but he was relieved to meet him like this.

    Having filmed numerous student films, he always thought, "What''s the harm in getting a minor role inmercial projects?" But he always aspired tond more significant roles.

    He never expected such an opportunity toe like this.

    Although his role had only a few lines, it was the first time his character was introduced with more than two sentences in a drama.

    Even after Sing in High School'' ended, he often reminisced about those times whenever he went to a shooting set.

    Feel free to take it easy.

    Had the actor he was shooting with been someone other than Han Yooil, the memory of that day might have taken a different turn. Perhaps, it would have been difficult for him to step foot on amercial set for a while.

    "You''re known for your acting skills, Shinwoo. I knew you''d do well."

    At Yooil''s words, Yoon Shinwoo gave an embarrassed smile.

    This time, his role in The Sun and the Moon'' was as the fourth prince''s bodyguard.

    The fourth prince was a character not originally in the source material, created to rival the protagonist Lee Bin.

    It was then an unexpected voice was heard.

    "Are you two close?"

    Both Yooil and Shinwoo''s heads turned simultaneously. At the end of their gaze was Kang Hyesung. Yoon Shinwoo looked at Kang Hyesung''s sturdy build and distinct facial features with surprised eyes.

    Kang Hyesung initially gained attention for his looks but gradually secured leading roles with his acting prowess. Among male actors in their 20s, he was a rare case of a military veteran, filling the void left by younger male actors and seeing his stock rise steadily.

    With a robust and respectable image, and favorable reviews from colleagues, the public''s response to him was also positive.

    "That may be true, but"

    Yoon Shinwoo recalled a story he had heard from a fellow actor he became friends with during filming.

    Hyesung is nice from a distance. Only from a distance.

    Whispering and looking around cautiously, the actor insisted that theirment should never be traced back to them.

    This made Yoon Shinwoo a bit nervous.

    Kang Hyesung acted as if Yoon Shinwoo was invisible. His attention was solely on Yooil.

    "Yooil, right?"

    Kang Hyesung lifted his chin slightly and smiled.

    "Haha, I''m bad with names. Sorry~"

    His tone seemed caring but carried an oddly arrogant undertone.

    Yoon Shinwoo''s expression hardened, but Han Yooil continued to smile unfazedly at his counterpart.

    "Is this your first historical drama?"

    "Yes, it is."

    "Don''t worry too much about what people say~ If the drama does well, all thosements will disappear."

    Kang Hyesung shrugged and continued.

    "I wouldn''t have done this project if it weren''t for Director Do Junhwan. The original fans are a bit intimidating~ It''d be less pressure if they said I didn''t fit the role, but the expectations are so high~"

    Hearing this from someone who was the top choice for the role?

    Listening to his talk, Yoon Shinwoo was sure. Kang Hyesung was subtly trying to belittle Yooil.

    "Well, I think it''s good that people have high expectations."

    "Really?"

    Hyesung smirked and casually remarked,

    "You''re full of passion. That''s good~"

    Then, after murmuring a few words, Kang Hyesung slipped into his van.

    Yoon Shinwoo, fiddling with the ice pack Yooil had given him, tilted his head in the direction Kang Hyesung had gone.

    <i>It seems like a serious rivalry, doesn''t it?''</i>

    But Han Yooil seemed oblivious.

    * * *

    As the setting was nearingpletion, Director Do Junhwan shouted loudly.

    "Alright, let''s get the shot~ Today''s schedule is tight, so let''s do our best!"

    And the actual shooting began.

    As the shooting locations for The Sun and the Moon'' were spread across the country, the first shoot started with part 2.

    After part 1, where Yoo Dohwa and Lee Bin meet, part 2 revolves around the rumors that the Crown Prince has fallen ill during his secret travels.

    "The Crown Prince''s illness has worsened?"

    Upon secretly learning about the Crown Prince''s illness, Lee Bin walks through the pce with a heavy heart. Then, the fourth prince, Prince Im Yeon, appears.

    "The weather is fine today, brother."

    "How can you say such a thing?"

    "With the sun gradually setting in the mid-heaven and the sky being so clear, how can it not be fine?"

    Considering the current severity of the Crown Prince''s illness, these words sounded profoundly significant.

    Lee Bin''s brows furrowed as he looked at Prince Im Yeon.

    Excluding the eldest son, the Crown Prince, and the second prince who died long ago, Prince Im Yeon and Lee Bin were the closest brothers.

    Once a younger brother he yed with, Lee Bin looked at Prince Im Yeon with eyes filled with regret.

    "I recently made a friend. I''ll introduce him to you soon."

    A friend?''

    Bin did not trust his younger brother. Since he was about thirteen, Prince Im Yeon had started surrounding himself with people through meticulous calction. Lee Bin was not unaware of this fact.

    "Does this friend'' know you''re a prince?"

    "No. He believes I''m just an idler with nothing better to do."

    <i>As expected.''</i>

    The speech had the seasoned touch of someone experienced in historical dramas. Director Do Junhwan nodded and called out "Okay."

    The next scene was to be shot at a nearby set.

    The scene where Lee Bin meets Prince Im Yeon''s friend.'' The very first meeting between Lee Bin and Yoo Kwon.

    As usual, Yoo Kwon was seen swinging a wooden sword at a straw dummy. After skillfully decapitating the dummy, Yoo Kwon sensed someone approaching and slowly changed his stance.

    Unbeknownst to anyone, he had been waiting for this moment for a long time.

    "Hey, Kwon."

    Prince Im Yeon greets with anguid smile, raising his hand. Just then, Yoo Kwon turns his head.

    Meeting his gaze, Lee Bin is momentarily startled.

    <i>!''</i>

    The fierce look in Yoo Kwon''s eyes quickly dissipates. Suddenly, Yoo Kwon''s eyes are empty, devoid of any emotion, as he looks at Lee Bin.

    Prince Im Yeon speaks,

    "Here''s the brother I mentioned before."

    Instead of responding, Yoo Kwon points to a wooden sword on the ground.

    "If you don''t mind, why don''t you try holding it?"

    "What?"

    As Lee Bin looks at his brother in confusion, the younger prince grins delightfully.

    "This man insists that to be friends, one must cross swords. Quite an unusual stubbornness, don''t you think?"

    Hearing his brother''s words and seeing Yoo Kwon''s calm face again, Lee Bin realizes.

    This man has no idea that he is a prince.

    <i>In that case.''</i>

    Lee Bin slowly picks up the wooden sword.

    He was among the princes who had practiced martial arts for a long time.

    The desire to correct that arrogant and disrespectful attitude took over Lee Bin.

    With a fierce yell, he lunged forward.

    The wooden swords collided, creating a loud noise. With simr height, build, and strength, the oue seemed unpredictable. Prince Im Yeon watched their sparring with a rxed demeanor.

    During one of the exchanges,

    Yoo Kwon steps back to dodge Lee Bin''s sword aimed at his waist. In that instant, Lee Bin swiftly moves to target Yoo Kwon''s neck.

    Suddenly, Lee Bin extends his arm, losing his bnce.

    <i>What?!''</i>

    Min Woojin, who had been watching with bated breath, is shocked.

    <i>That''s not the right angle!''</i>

    The wooden sword, meant to pass beside the neck, is now rapidly heading towards Yooil''s corbone.

    It could lead to a serious injury.

    Just before Min Woojin can scream, a loud noise, loud enough to drown out all other sounds, echoes through the set.

    Crack!

    Lee Bin''s extended wooden sword flies off, cleanly broken in half.

    ""

    Stunned and covered in dust, Lee Bin looks at the broken wooden sword.

    His face shows he has no idea what just happened.

    "Are the actors okay?!"

    The assistant director and other staff members examine the actors with trembling eyes.

    It was a moment that could have led to a major ident. Fortunately, both actors seemed to be unharmed at first nce.

    Well done, Yooil.

    <i>That was close.''</i>

    In a split second, Yooil had grabbed the end of the wooden sword with both hands and pushed Lee Bin''s sword away, causing it to snap in half.

    The rigorous training at the action school had paid off, preparing him for various scenarios.

    At the same time,

    Director Do Junhwan, rather than considering the actors'' shaken state, was first thinking about the utility of the scene they had just shot.

    <i>We''ll have to take it one more time.''</i>

    But after reviewing the footage, his expression changes subtly.

    <i>Huh?''</i>

    The scene was originally meant to show Lee Bin realizing the exceptional skill of Yoo Kwon''s swordsmanship.

    <i>This is''</i>

    Though unintended, the broken wooden sword, Lee Bin''s flustered face because of it, and Yoo Kwon''s cold gaze were unbelievably effective.

    "Maybe we can call this one okay?"

    Kang Hyesung was flustered.

    From the misstep to the broken wooden sword, nothing had gone as he expected.

    Especially the expression Lee Bin had worn when the wooden sword broke  it was, in fact, the expression of Kang Hyesung''.

    There could have been a more impressive expression and angle, and the fact that Director Do Junhwan seemed to like that particr take only irritated him further.

    "Damn, that really startled me."

    Brushing the dust off his body, Kang Hyesung muttered irritably, loud enough for Han Yooil to hear. At his words, Min Woojin red at Kang Hyesung. Even if it was a mistake, it could have caused a major ident due to him.

    And the first words out of his mouth were about how he was startled.

    <i>Is that really something to say?''</i>

    However, instead of showing anger, the actor under Min Woojin''s charge lowered his eyebrows and gave a faint smile.

    "I apologize for startling you, senior."

    Kang Hyesung expected Han Yooil to show some anger or at least a hint of displeasure. However, he couldn''t find any confusion in Yooil. Only a trace of pity was evident.

    As if he didn''t care about someone like him.

    "I still have a lot to learn. I hope for your understanding in the future."

    Moreover, understanding''  as if hinting that simr incidents might ur again.

    <i>Look at this?''</i>

    Kang Hyesung''s eyebrows slightly rose. His manager, observing this, anxiously averted his gaze.

    <i>Herees another storm.''</i>

    The manager swallowed a sigh and forced a neutral expression, saddened by the fact that the shooting was just starting.

    * * *

    Meanwhile, time at the set of The Sun and the Moon'' was bustling.

    And as Yooil was preparing for the new semester''s course registration, the broadcast of the first episode was approaching.

    Motivated by his ssmates insisting, "We must watch the first episode together," Yooil had invited them to his ce.

    Kim Jinwoo, who had conveniently taken a leave, was also able to join.

    "Yooil, can I use this to brew some coffee?"

    "Wow, how many inches is this? It''s like a cinema, a cinema."

    Stepping into the clean, newly built studio apartment, the ssmates were visibly excited. Kim Jinwoo, bouncing on the sofa, turned his gaze to Hwang Riu, who was eating chocte.

    "Hey, this is good. Did you bring this?"

    "It''s the chocte that was on the table."

    Yooil watched his friends enjoying themselves in his home as if it were their own.

    "Yooil,e sit down!"

    "Okay."

    Still, he wasn''t in a bad mood.

    Soon, the ordered spicy rice cakes arrived. As the spicy scent filled the living room, Kim Jinwoo''s loud voice echoed through the house.

    "Here it goes, here it goes!"

    [The Sun and the Moon]

    The title, written in an elegant font, appeared and then disappeared.

    And with the nostalgic yet poignant opening music, the drama began.

 Chapter 82:

    Chapter 82:

    The Sun and the Moon,'' a fusion fantasy drama set in a fictional Joseon era, clearly states that it''s unrted to historical facts and purely a work of fiction, as indicated by the white text swiftly passing across the screen. The drama opens with a scene of the king receiving a report from the Chief State Councilor, his faceden with meaning, bathed in the blue dawn light of the pce.

    The scenes swiftly transition.

    The princes studying at the Royal Academy are shown, with a close-up of Lee Bin''s face, his eyebrows furrowed.

    Yoo Dohwa, reading a thick book in his room, suddenly opens the door and dashes out.

    <i>The direction is certainly smooth.''</i>

    Director Do Junhwan had once led a wave of romantic historical dramas with a series about the romance between King Jeongjo and Queen Heebin. This opening, too, showcased his finesse in delicate direction, a signature of his work.

    The friends, quietly watching the opening, became noisy as the drama progressed to the middle.

    "Look! He''s there!"

    Yoo Kwon appears on screen, wielding not a wooden, but a gleaming real sword, slicing through a tree.

    Mouths agape, the ssmates watched as Yoo Kwon, in a white robe, seemed to dance with his sword.

    <i>Incredible''</i>

    <i>The Sun and the Moon'' was a well-known webtoon, even among those who didn''t read webtoons. Naturally, his ssmates, lovers of stories of all genres, had all been fans of The Sun and the Moon.''</i>

    Though they didn''t show it, everyone was worried when they heard that Han Yooil was taking on the character of Yoo Kwon.

    Because they cared, they knew more.

    But their worries melted away like snow on a summer sports field at Yooil''s first scene. Where there was worry, now only pure admiration filled the space.

    The living room erupted into noise as soon as Yoo Kwon''s entrance scene ended.

    "Those eyes, oh my God! Crazy, right?!"

    "Wow man, even guys would fall for him"

    "Amazing. This is insane."

    Han Yooil''s ssmates, regardless of his presence, started pouring out sincere exmations.

    <i>I remember the atmosphere on the set was good.''</i>

    Director Do Junhwan even whistled after calling cut. Yooil thought his reaction was just to boost morale.

    <i>It seems better edited than I thought.''</i>

    Yooil munched on tteokbokki, letting his friends'' ttery go in one ear and out the other.

    While dissecting the drama''s adaptation and character modifications, the friends became quiet again as the drama approached itstter half.

    Older brother.

    At Yoo Dohwa''s voice, Yoo Kwon''s face visibly softened.

    What is it?

    Well brother. May I borrow your ck hat just once?

    It seems the number one'' has no end for you.

    Seeing Dohwa''s sullen face, Yoo Kwon chuckled, then untied the string of his ck hat.

    Soon, the sparkling ck hat was in Dohwa''s hands. She hugged it with a giggle.

    I''ll use it carefully, older brother!

    What are you nning to do this time?

    Instead of answering, Yoo Dohwa just gave a lovely smile.

    Yoo Kwon''s expression visibly rxed, watching Dohwa.

    Yoo Dohwa was quite the mischievous one.

    Once curious, she never gave up. Knowing this, Yoo Jungmo handed her a copy of a shijang (a kind of forensic statement written after inspecting a corpse), piquing her interest.

    But Dohwa''s curiosity didn''t stop there.

    She wanted to verify things for herself.

    That''s why she, disguised as a man, appeared by the graveste at night.

    Busy with her monologue, Dohwa is quickly discovered in her disguise.

    Lee Bin, who almost mistook Dohwa for a ghost in a ck hat, calms his startled heart and speaks.

    What could a woman be doing out here at thiste hour?

    At Lee Bin''s absurd question, his bodyguard narrows his eyes towards Yoo Dohwa.

    From what I can see, it looks like she''s digging something up.

    Dohwa is in the midst of unearthing an item necessary for an autopsy, but to Lee Bin, the behavior seems suspiciously conspicuous to ignore.

    Approaching this strange woman, Lee Bin finds himself entangled in an unexpected situation.

    Eek!

    Seeing Lee Bin approach, Dohwa is startled and nearly falls, but Lee Bin, reflexively, catches her from behind.

    A scene that could be a clich in a romance.

    !!

    A sweet scent brushes his nose.

    A youthful face and sparkling eyes capture his gaze.

    Lee Bin''s heart starts racing as he holds the unexpected visitor in his arms.

    As Lee Bin is flustered by these new feelings, Yoo Kwon, who had followed Dohwa, discovers her and Lee Bin.

    Dohwa.

    At the unfamiliar voice, she turns her head, and a man hidden in the shadows bes visible.

    Lee Bin and his bodyguard try to discern his face, but Yoo Kwon''s features blend into the darkness.

    Dohwa, with widened eyes, stares intently at Yoo Kwon.

    Oh, brother how did youe here?

    Still in shock, Lee Bin only then realizes the woman has left his embrace.

    I lent my ck hat to my only sister, so it''s my responsibility to look after her.

    Dohwa knows. Yoo Kwon''s voice is much colder than usual.

    <i>He is displeased.''</i>

    Yoo Kwon watches Dohwa tentatively approach him.

    [Whatever I desire, I obtain.]

    That''s how he has lived his life.

    When he caught the eye of Yoo Jungmo during a war and became his adopted son.

    When he approached Prince Im Yeon, pretending to be a frivolous man outside the pce.

    Every moment went ording to his calctions.

    The only existence outside his calctions in his life was one.

    <i>Yoo Dohwa.''</i>

    His sister, not rted by blood.

    But it was fine. Having a young sister was somewhat pleasant.

    Her asional oddity was amusing, and her distinctness from other youngdies was intriguing.

    However, it was far from pleasant to see his sister giving her attention to another man.

    Are you hurt anywhere?

    I am fine

    While supporting his sister and turning to walk away, he turns his head towards Lee Bin.

    Though his face is still hidden, his piercing gaze is unmistakable.

    I apologize for the rudeness at thiste hour.

    To an onlooker, he might seem like a caring older brother concerned for his sister.

    But Lee Bin clearly perceives the kind of gaze he is under.

    !

    A cold, cutting gaze sweeps over him.

    In the future, this will not happen again.

    It was a definite warning.

    A harsh warning directed at Lee Bin.

    * * *

    Kim Jinwoo''s tteokbokki fell off his fork with a plop, but nobody bothered to clean the red stain on the floor.

    "It was riveting."

    Kim Jinwoo muttered.

    Even after the drama had ended, the friends chatted animatedly until nearly midnight before they started leaving one by one.

    - The Sun and the Moon'' is insane

    [The moment the first episode ended, I knew this is a masterpiece]

    Please keep it up like this

    Truly, the direction, acting, visual beauty, and music are all wless

    It''s surprisingly faithful to the original I love it

    I haven''t read the webtoon, is Yoo Kwon always like that in the original?

    [Really cold and those crazy eyes but I love it]

    Yep^^

    His nickname during serialization was Cold but Handsome Crazy Guy'' and Samdolsa''

    What''s Samdolsa?

    A guy who''s 359 degrees crazy

    Ah

    I told you it''s the critics who know

    [Where did all those who criticized go Feels so good]

    Seriously, where did all those who disliked the casting go?

    Ah, it''s thrilling~

    Han Yooil is perfect for the role

    He really acts well

    Given the high interest in The Sun and the Moon'', there were significantly more posts about it onmunity forums than other dramas.

    The Sun and the Moon'' Han Yooil''s intense first appearance His cold gaze captures attention

    The Sun and the Moon'' Han Yooil, "Shouldn''t I be responsible?" K-brothering to catch Lee Bohee

    The Sun and the Moon'' Kang Hyesung X Lee Bohee''s thrilling encounter Heart-fluttering''

    Isn''t Lee Bin the male lead? My younger sibling keeps calling Han Yooil the male lead and we argued about it;

    His first appearance was indeed intense

    Shouldn''t I be responsible.. rollthump..Shouldn''t I be responsible.. rollthump..Shouldn''t I be responsible.. rollthump..

    The reaction to the second episode aired the next day was even hotter.

    The Sun and the Moon'' Han Yooil overpowering Lee Bin with a sword An ominous rtionship

    Han Yooil, a meaningful smile about the epidemic spreading through Joseon "Is that true?"

    The Sun and the Moon'' Episode 2 ratings 7.1% showing an upward trend

    Wait, so Yoo Kwon was eyeing the position of Yoo Jungmo''s adopted son from the start?;; Extraordinary from the start

    Damn, he even approached Prince Im Yeon on purpose

    Basically Yoo Kwon is ying everyone;;

    The wooden sword scene was insane Screamed out loud

    Episodes 3 and 4 began showing the onset of the epidemic.

    An epidemic of unknown origin and cause. Those infected oozed pus from all over their bodies and coughed up blood-mixed phlegm, leading to death within a month.

    Lee Bin, with the king''s permission, decides to investigate the epidemic with the medical officers. There, he once again encounters Yoo Dohwa, disguised as a man.

    Despite frequent posts pointing out the improbability of a youngdy from a noble house disguising herself as a man in the Joseon era, the drama''s faithfulness to the original work and its setting in a fictional Joseon provided a good shield.

    "Why are you going to such lengths?" Lee Bin asks, to which Yoo Dohwa, her eyes sparkling, replies.

    "I adhere to the principle stated in the Book of Changes: Respect leads to sincerity of the heart, and righteousness leads to the properness of action.'' This is my righteousness.''"

    Lee Bin is taken aback by words he did not expect to hear from a woman. And in that moment, he realizes his feelings for Dohwa.

    Despite the main couple steadily building their narrative, the ratings did not rise as expected.

    Question about episodes 3 and 4 of The Sun and the Moon''

    [Was Yoo Kwon''s screen time always this scarce? Why is he not appearing?]

    There''s a gap in the original work too

    Yoo Kwon''s character is all about extracting value from limited screen time

    True, when Yoo Kwon appears, you have to pay full attention;

    Haha.. it''s funny but not funny

    Honestly, about The Sun and the Moon''

    [Kang Hyesung and Lee Bohee look great together, but why do I keep feeling something''s missing? I wouldn''t mind more screen time for Yoo Kwon..]

    Can''t help it

    Increasing his screen time would break away from the original

    Yeah.. Yoo Kwon''s character itself is like dopamine..

    Dopamine agreed

    The turning point of the storyes when Yoo Dohwa shields herself from the blood-mixed phlegm coughed up by an epidemic patient.

    Both Lee Bin and Yoo Kwon witness this shocking scene and are greatly disturbed.

    Knowing the epidemic spreads through mere contact, Dohwa believes she has contracted the disease.

    Lee Bin and Yoo Kwon spend the night guarding Dohwa, who has isted herself in a hut.

    Miss Yoo''s older brother is you.

    Yes, it is.

    Lee Bin narrows his eyes at Yoo Kwon, who has suddenly formalized his speech.

    How long have you known?

    Not for very long. Had I known, I would not have handed over the wooden sword, Your Highness.

    In the dark and unsettling night, a cunning exchange of truth and deception takes ce.

    The only time their hearts align is when wishing for Dohwa''s safety.

    While Yoo Kwon briefly leaves, Lee Bin hums a soft tune, allowing Dohwa to fall asleep to the melody.

    And the next morning.

    What?

    Dohwa wakes up perfectly healthy.

    Are you truly alright?!

    If there is even a slight difort, please tell me.

    I''m really fine. In fact, I slept well and woke up feeling refreshed.

    Seeing Dohwa''s clear face, both Lee Bin and Yoo Kwone to a realization.

    In the face of the epidemic that leads to a dreadful fate for everyone, young or old, Dohwa alone seems to be immune.

 Chapter 83:

    Chapter 83:

    The day after episode 6 aired, revealing Yoo Dohwa''s immunity to the epidemic, Kang Hyesung arrived at the set in a foul mood.

    "Are you feeling unwell today, actor?"

    "Just couldn''t sleep well~"

    Kang Hyesung''s manager, with a good-natured smile, eyed his actor with a narrowed gaze.

    <i>Always so meticulous about image management.''</i>

    As soon as Kang Hyesung entered the van, he started venting his frustration.

    "Shouldn''t articles focus on the main character? Isn''t that the basic principle?"

    "But you received a lot of praise for your acting"

    "Minjae, are you blind? Even a cursory nce shows there are far more articles about Han Yooil."

    The manager nodded resignedly. Pacifying an irate Kang Hyesung was one of the most challenging parts of his job.

    "If I knew it would be like this, I would''ve taken the role of Yoo Kwon."

    Kang Hyesung''s mumbles continued, casting a doubtful nce from the manager. Monitoring the actors was part of a manager''s job, and often, he found himself so engrossed in Han Yooil''s performance that he missed parts of Kang Hyesung''s. If caught, he would''ve been in hot water for months, if not a year.

    <i>Good thing I wasn''t caught''</i>

    The character of Yoo Kwon, and Han Yooil''s portrayal of it, demonstrated a stunning sync. Now, it was hard to imagine anyone else in that role. While Kang Hyesung continued to fume, he muttered as he nced out the window.

    "They say even a tiger appears when you talk about it."

    Kang Hyesung exited the van with a lifted corner of his lips, a seemingly casual smile. The manager followed him with a worried look.

    "Yooil~"

    At Kang Hyesung''s call, Han Yooil slowly turned his head, dressed in Yoo Kwon''s iconic white robe.

    "Hello, senior."

    "Feels a bit cooler today, doesn''t it~?"

    He quickly got to the point with a sly smile.

    "Not that it''s a big deal, but maybe we should sync up our scenes a bit?"

    The worried manager sighed in relief when he saw the making-film camera continuously filming Kang Hyesung. The actor was meticulous about his image, so there was little to worry about in front of cameras.

    "So you''re living alone now? That''s nice. By the way, how old did you say you were?"

    Instead of practicing the script, Kang Hyesung started to probe Han Yooil''s background.

    "Oh, I''m five years older than you, haha~ I can speak informally, right? Tell me if it bothers you."

    "No problem at all."

    Kang Hyesung thenunched into an extended monologue filled with self-praise.

    As he started talking, Han Yooil took a big bite of a chocte barid out in front of him, one of the snacks provided by the production. It seemed to be a popr brand.

    Tastes good.''

    While Kang Hyesung and Han Yooil were each engrossed in their monologue and chocte bar, Lee Bohee watched them from a distance.

    <i>Is that guy starting again?''</i>

    Arms crossed, Lee Bohee watched them for a while before slowly approaching the two actors.

    "Oppa."

    "Ah, our Dohwa is here?" Kang Hyesung''s overly affectionate tone made Lee Bohee raise an eyebrow, but then she noticed the making-film camera filming them. She chuckled and remarked,

    "I knew it."

    "What, what are you talking about~"

    "You''re only affectionate when the camera is on, brother."

    Lee Bohee''s cynical reply was followed by a casual remark to Han Yooil.

    "Don''t take what this oppa says too seriously. He''ll probably use itter as a personal anecdote."

    Kang Hyesung, caught off guard, shifted his gaze uneasily.

    "What are you talking about, Bohee~"

    "Oppa, you''ve been milking the story about how you gave me advice during the shooting of Noble One'' 9 years ago. Even bone broth doesn''t get used that much."

    Lee Bohee, who had debuted with Kang Hyesung, had to endure endless lectures from him, who was then one year her senior.

    As she gained fame and poprity, Kang Hyesung started dredging up those moments in talk shows and interviews, crafting self-made anecdotes about how he had advised and counseled Bohee when she was struggling.

    "Don''t get me wrong! We''re really close; that''s why we''re like this!"

    Kang Hyesung stood up and shouted towards the camera, and Lee Bohee also sported a yful smile for the camera, making the atmosphere seem amiable.

    <i>I''ll let it slide this time since we''re co-stars.''</i>

    Behind the lovely smile, however,y quite a cynical heart.

    Kang Hyesung, after a moment of ncing at Lee Bohee, suddenly lifted his phone and shouted, "One, two, three!"

    Click.

    "Ah! Brother! Who takes a selfie without warning?"

    "Come on~ You look pretty in it~"

    Lee Bohee, frowning as she looked at Kang Hyesung''s phone, reluctantly nodded.

    "Well, it''s not bad."

    "I''m going to post it on ShaStar. Is that okay with you, Yooil?"

    Yooil nodded. Apart from everything else, the photo had turned out quite well.

    Lee Bohee observed Han Yooil holding an empty chocte bar wrapper in one hand and a script in the other.

    "Are you nning to practice here?"

    The unspoken part of her question was, Next to this guy?''

    "Ah, yes. Senior suggested we practice the script together."

    "I see."

    Lee Bohee, who had responded nonchntly, then plopped down on an empty chair.

    "Then I''ll join in as well."

    With Lee Bohee''s participation, the script reading finally got on the right track.

    * * *

    "Dohwa."

    "Is it really really something brother did?"

    "Do you truly not trust me, your brother?"

    When Lee Bohee stayed silent, Han Yooil''s face, which had been speaking in a pained voice, suddenly transformed. Kang Hyesung, witnessing that expression, was taken aback.

    <i>What what is this?''</i>

    Kang Hyesung subtly nced at the making-film camera, ensuring not to draw attention before shifting his stance. Originally, he intended only to pretend to engage in the script reading, but now he realized

    <i>If I don''t do it properly it''ll be a disaster.''</i>

    Thanks to him, the staff could witness a script reading session as passionate as the actual shooting.

    Their practice continued until just before shootingmenced.

    "Our actors are so passionate, very much so~"

    Only Director Do Junhwan, unaware of the undercurrents, smiled contentedly.

    [@strong_sung (photo) (photo) With the lovely junior Bohee and Yooil~ A shot during our practice! ^^]

    What''s happening, I only see radiance in these photos

    Lee Bohee''s beauty, what''s going on

    Thank you, Hyesung finally found a selfie that captures half of Yooil''s real charm thank you

    Seems like a great atmosphere on set

    Lee Hyejin quickly captured the ShaStar photo.

    Of course, she had been living each week waiting for the airing of The Sun and the Moon''.

    <i>My actor looks so good in the traditional robe!''</i>

    Naturally she had thought he''d suit historical dramas based on his impromptu acting at an online fan meeting.

    The fan cafe was also abuzz with posts fantasizing about Han Yooil starring in a historical drama.

    She hadn''t expected this wish toe true so soon.

    <i>And as Yoo Kwon, no less''</i>

    Each new still brought her sheer joy.

    Right then, a notification for a new OTube video popped up on Lee Hyejin''s phone.

    [The Sun and the Moon_Behind] "We''re close, no misunderstandings!" Bursting with freshness, the delightful trio Kwon X Do X Bin

    Lee Hyejin clicked on the video with a silent scream.

    In the video, Han Yooil was steadily munching on a chocte bar, seemingly unfazed by anything around him.

    Let''s do it together.

    [The passionate Sun and Moon cast!]

    A heartwarming caption followed Lee Bohee joining the script reading.

    As the reading began in earnest, Han Yooil''s expression swiftly transformed.

    Dohwa.

    Do you not trust me, your brother?

    <i>Gasp.''</i>

    It was the line from the trailer!

    She had been reying that line, eagerly awaiting the airing of the next episode.

    "Ah can''t wait to watch it."

    And just as Lee Hyejin wished, the curtain rose for episode 7 that evening.

    Dohwa seeks a way to utilize her immunity to the epidemic. Simultaneously, she uses her immunity to contact the patients directly, meticulously examining their wounds using various medicinal herbs.

    How can a nobledy care for the likes of us

    Beyond status and ss, shouldn''t saving livese first?

    Considering that female medical practitioners were considered lowly at the time, the protagonist held a very progressive viewpoint.

    During her care, Dohwa encounters a horrific scene.

    A patient, who had unintentionally coughed up blood-mixed phlegm on her, had been brutally shed.

    Trembling in shock, Dohwa discovers a familiar knife at the murder scene.

    It was the knife Yoo Kwon carried for emergencies.

    What is this?

    Stunned, Dohwa seeks out Yoo Kwon immediately.

    Disying the blood-stained knife, Yoo Dohwa asks with tears in her eyes. Yoo Kwon, after a long stare at the knife, slowly lifts his gaze.

    Dohwa.

    He calls her name gently, focusing solely on her, his face filled with pity as if looking at a child who has lost her parents.

    Really did brother do this?

    No.

    Then who! Who used this knife for such a dreadful act!

    Do you really not trust me, your own brother?

    Dohwa doesn''t respond.

    Her suspicions about her brother, whom she thought was kind, had long taken root.

    Then, a shback unfolds.

    On the night Yoo Kwon briefly left the hut and Dohwa fell asleep to Lee Bin''s song, Yoo Kwon went to find the patient who had coughed blood on Dohwa.

    Who who''s there this ce is dangerous

    The patient''s voice is strained, gasping for breath.

    Yoo Kwon listens with a cold face.

    Without a moment''s hesitation, he swiftly raises his hand. Again and again, he stabs the knife through the door.

    Horrific sounds echo repeatedly. His violent shing continues until the small tremors transmitted through the knife''s de cease.

    Throughout it all, Yoo Kwon''s lips remain tightly sealed.

    Only his eyes, zing with fury, are visible.

    After mercilesslymitting the murder, Yoo Kwon discards the knife and disappears.

    How how could you do that?

    Seeing the look in Dohwa''s eyes, Yoo Kwon gives up on deceiving her.

    Instead, he decides to reveal a bit of his true intentions.

    How can a person do that, you ask?

    Did you ask for a reason?

    Yoo Kwon tilts his head leisurely.

    Of course, one can.

    !

    Dohwa, about to retort, freezes at the sight of Yoo Kwon''s eyes.

    <i>That''s not''</i>

    <i>That''s not my brother.''</i>

    It''s not the brother she knew.

    In that moment, Dohwa feels an overwhelming urge to copse to the ground and cry. But she can''t even move freely. His gaze holds her captive.

    Though he hasn''tid a finger on her, she feels as if she''s being strangled.

    Yoo Kwon speaks each word heavily.

    Though his tone is calm, the suppressed rage is undeniable.

    That thing'' put you in danger, didn''t it?

    Yoo Kwon''s sharp eyes scan Dohwa''s face.

    The darkness in his eyes is so profound that Dohwa can''t even look away.

    How dare you.

 Chapter 84:

    Chapter 84:

    What''s with this episode of The Sun and the Moon

    [I practically knelt down while watching;;]

    You too? Me too

    So scary

    Seriously, I got so scared watching Yoo Kwon that I ended up watching the actor''s OTube videos until I fell asleep

    Haha, great tip, thanks

    I''ve read the original, but I still can''t predict what happens next

    Whoever cast Han Yooil,e here

    [(GIF of a dog being petted)

    Good job]

    Lolololol

    I watched Sing in High and The Case of Saetbyeol High, but I didn''t recognize Han Yooil at first he seemed like apletely different person

    Right, I couldn''t believe it even after reading the character introductions lol

    They say the writer personally contacted Han Yooil

    Wow, that''s amazing..

    The atmosphere in The Sun and the Moon seems great

    [(Screenshot of the behind-the-scenes video)

    They seem to be practicing acting during their break, everyone is so cute..]

    Kang Hyesung suddenly standing up and shouting "Don''t get me wrong!" was so funny lol

    The highlight of that video isn''t Kang Hyesung speaking nonstop, nor is it Lee Bohee joining the script reading, but Han Yooil diligently eating his chocte bar

    Lolol agreed

    Han Yooil really eats that chocte bar so earnestly is it that good?

    Watching it makes me want some too

    I just came from watching Yoo Kwon talk about cognitive dissonance

    But is it just me, or is it a bit cold

    Didn''t it seem like Lee Bohee was genuinely annoyed at the beginning of the video?

    They''re close so probably just joking around

    Here we go over-immersing again

    Who rmended The Sun and the Moon

    [(GIF of a person aimlessly wandering)

    Ah how do I wait for the next episode how do you all have such patience, I''m practically logging out of real life]

    Congrattions^^

    Let''s walk this path of agony together

    Let''s binge-watch from episode 1 on weekdays

    Me too I usually prefer to binge-watch after a series ends, but I got hooked on episode 1 of The Sun and the Moon and ended up watching all day

    The buzz around The Sun and the Moon wasn''t confined to onlinemunities.

    Honey, what drama have you been watchingtely?

    Oh, the kids and I are watching that historical drama what''s it called? The Sun and the Moon? That one!

    Oh, our house too~!

    Conversations about The Sun and the Moon weremon in cafes and restaurants near the stations,

    Boss, did you watch The Sun and the Moon yesterday?

    Yeah. That guy, Kwon? At first, I thought he was a normal guy, but as the episodes go, he seems to be getting crazier

    It even became a topic for small talk at workces.

    This testified that The Sun and the Moon had captivated a wide audience, regardless of gender or age.

    The Sun and the Moon'' Han Yooil''s chilling gaze towards Lee Bohee in episode 7 Ratings 12.3%

    The Sun and the Moon'' episode 8, subtle rivalry between Kang Hyesung and Han Yooil Are they bing the biggest rivals?

    The Sun and the Moon'' Lee Bohee deres "I no longer trust my brother" The siblings'' rtionship heading towards a catastrophe

    The Sun and the Moon'' ratings hit 13.5% A new personal best

    It wouldn''t be an exaggeration to say that Han Yooil was at the center of the buzz.

    Especially the episodes featuring Yoo Kwon'' saw a noticeable increase in ratings.

    Progress towards Stage 3 goal: 89.5%

    Yooil gazed at the nearly 90% achievement rate, almost a year into the third stage.

    <i>It''s a bit slower than expected.''</i>

    Yet, he felt optimistic that by the end of The Sun and the Moon'' shooting, he might advance to the next stage.

    He sighed softly and looked at himself in the mirror, confronting the cold eyes reflecting back at him. ying Yoo Kwon, Yooil felt he had mastered the character''s expressions to a certain extent.

    <i>Not an easy character.''</i>

    Yoo Kwon was someone who acted on his whims, disregarding others'' feelings or well-being, yet he was more calcting than impulsive, a trait of antisocial behavior disorder.

    Nevertheless, unable to contain his surging anger, he utilized the night, embracing the darkness to vent his fury. The murder of the gue-stricken patient was just a natural extension of his long-standing habit.

    Yooil recalled a training method he''d practiced two to three times a week until recently.

    <i>Background Immersion.''</i>

    After a short silence, Brion''s voice echoed.

    Initiating Scene 25 of Episode 11''s background immersion.

    Soon, he found himself slowly walking through dark streets, the damp scent of earth subtly filling the air. Despite numerous immersions, the vivid smells and sensations felt refreshingly new each time.

    Then, footsteps approached from afar.

    Seeing someone emerge from the darkness, Yooil''s lips tightened.

    * * *

    <i>Have I started toote?''</i>

    After initiating the background immersion past midnight, Yooil copsed into sleep as soon as it ended.

    When he woke up in the morning, his body felt heavy and stiff.

    Only Brion''s awakening effect brought him back to his senses, but his body still creaked.

    As Yooil stretched his legs in the morning air of the set, a familiar voice reached him from above.

    "What are you doing?"

    "Ah, hello, senior."

    The person who approached Yooil was Lee Bohee.

    Quickly scanning the surroundings as if searching for someone, she swiftly positioned herself beside Yooil.

    Noticing Yooil stretching alone, Bohee suddenly stretched her leg backward and said,

    "Try extending your foot slightly backward. Then press the top of your foot towards the ground. Like this."

    "!"

    Yooil''s eyes widened as he felt the tension release from his toes up to his shins.

    It was refreshing.

    "That''s a stretch I often do. Do it on the other side too."

    "Thank you, senior."

    Yooil''s thanks were met with a brief response from Bohee, whose eyes began to wander.

    "Yooil."

    She hesitated, then shook her head.

    "No, it''s nothing. I''ll tell you when I''m sure."

    "Huh?"

    "Do well in the shooting."

    Bohee left Yooil behind and walked towards the camera.

    * * *

    The shooting that started in the early morning (although there was a break of about 10 hours in between) continued until the next day''s noon.

    "In the end, I was just a pawn to amodate my father''s whims."

    In a ruined vige, Yoo Jungmo recalls his own childhood upon seeing a child swinging a sword as big as his torso to protect himself. For the first andst time in his life, he makes a radical decision  he takes the child in as his adoptive son.

    It wasn''t hard to integrate Yoo Kwon into the Yoo family registry. So, unrted by blood, Yoo Kwon became a distant rtive''s child on paper and was adopted into the family.

    "What exactly what do you want?"

    Yoo Jungmo struggles to articte his question.

    ""

    Yoo Kwon can''t easily answer.

    <i>I have found something I want.''</i>

    But he won''t voice it now.

    He''s a cautious person.

    Instead, he chooses the answer his father wants to hear.

    "I want to make this country better."

    As always.

    After the meeting with Yoo Jungmo, Yoo Kwon leaves the house briskly. He continues his thoughts as he walks.

    The crown prince, seriously ill, eventually dies, and the pce is thrown into chaos over the sudden death of the heir to the throne.

    The old king and the young princes.

    The ministers watch the chaotic political situation, hiding their desires.

    And there are those outside the pce who observe this.

    Yoo Kwon is one of them.

    "I want to make this country better."

    The sentence he told Yoo Jungmo.

    An important word was missing from that sentence.

    "I want to make this country better, for [myself]."

    His means to this end was Prince Im Yeon. A man bundled with inferiority and desire.

    A prince destined only to watch, never to aspire to the throne his brother would upy.

    Yoo Kwon ns to aid Prince Im Yeon''s dangerous desires.

    * * *

    The Sun and the Moon'' Han Yooil reveals his ambition "I will make this country better for myself" Hits record high ratings

    The Sun and the Moon'' Kang Hyesung''s biggest obstacle is who 15.8%, ranking first in its timeslot

    The Sun and the Moon'' leads for two consecutive weeks Viewing time on KIVLING increasedpared to the previous week

    Jang Jaehyun leans back leisurely in a ck leather chair, scrolling through the articles.

    After browsing through about 20 simr articles, his gaze sharpens when he stumbles upon a newly published article.

    "What''s this?"

    What''s this nonsense?

 Chapter 85:

    Chapter 85:

    As soon as Director Jang Jaeyi received the call from Chairman Jang, she dashed out of the gym.

    Consequently, she ended up going to work in her training clothes, but that wasn''t the pressing matter at hand.

    [Exclusive] Did Han Yooil Have a Friction with a Fan? Police Investigation Confirmed

    Grinding her teeth, Jang Jaeyi ignited the car''s engine.

    The PR team checked, and it seemed the police officials were clueless.

    Apparently, a reporter who had sneaked in thought it was a good item and someone hastily grabbed it.

    It''s possible they didn''t inform JJ Entertainment from the start because it was nothing significant.

    <i>This is annoying.</i>

    Jang Jaeyisrge eyes sharpened.

    She disliked being told she resembled her brother. Yet, there were undeniable moments, especially when she was angry.

    <i>Who the heck is it?</i>

    JJ Entertainment was connected with most media outlets. There were no particrly bad rtionships.

    However, if they managed to release the article this quietly

    <i>It''s definitely an entertainmentpany.</i>

    She needed to find out who started the meddling.

    The article didnt take long to reach the top ranks on portals.

    The onlinemunities were already abuzz.

    Did Han Yooil really get investigated by the police? (Article Link)

    [(Article Screenshot)

    Link in thements]

    Wow

    Friction with a fan..?

    If it led to an investigation, isn''t that serious? How are the fans holding up..?

    Honestly,

    [I had a bad feeling from the start..]

    It really seemed like a viral stunt by thepany

    Kang Hyesung really lives up to the nickname

    As expected of the doom-bringer;;

    I dont know, what''s that?

    All the male actors that Kang Hyesung works with end up ruined

    crazy

    This is irritating..

    [The bad-feeling sommeliers have arrivedTalking nonsense without knowing what''s going on]

    For real.. Nothing''s been confirmed yet, stop specting

    This is so frustrating..

    Themunity was a mix of worried, amused, and frustrated individuals.

    Jang Jaeyi opened the office door. The key staff members had already finished preparing for the meeting.

    "But in this case, isnt Mr. Yooil the victim Will it be a problem?"

    It wasn''t a wrong statement.

    The issue was the article.

    "The problem is that its already controversial for Mr. Yooil."

    They hoped the actor would quietly move past it, but the oue was the opposite.

    Above all, they were worried about Han Yooil.

    "Has Mr. Yooil not been reached yet?"

    "He''s not responding For now, Mr. Woojin is heading to his house."

    * * *

    Meanwhile, at Han Yooil''s studio apartment.

    Unaware that everyone was frantically looking for him, Yooil had just entered his second background immersion.

    He had a reason for consecutive immersions.

    The final shooting of <The Sun and the Moon> was tomorrow, and it was thest scene involving Yooil, the highlight of the drama featuring the fight between Lee Bin and Yoo Kwon.

    <i>I practiced the moves at the action school, but</i>

    It still wasnt enough.

    Focusing on the movements, his emotions kept copsing.

    Fortunately, thanks to Yooil getting the hang of background immersion, its duration had been gradually increasing.

    Starting Background Immersion for Scene 19 of Episode 12.

    * * *

    Yooil slowly opened his eyes.

    A chilly wind brushed his face, and the air vibrated with the stench of blood.

    Around him, corpsesy in a ghastly disy.

    Lee Bin Prince Seongwon approached him.

    Why make such a choice?

    His face seemed genuinely regretful.

    Contempt naturally surfaced on Yoo Kwon''s face.

    <i>You''ll never understand.</i>

    Being born as a noblemans illegitimate child meant walking a predestined path, trudging along from start to finish.

    A mother who knew only tears and a father who knew only anger.

    The war led them to death, but Yoo Kwon felt no sorrow.

    It seemed he had been waiting for just this moment.

    Swoosh-

    Lee Bin drew his sword.

    The moonlight reflected off the de, casting a chilling gleam.

    Yoo Kwon also drew the sword he carried.

    A giant yet thin de revealed itself.

    We have crossed swords before.

    Lee Bin gritted his teeth, refusing to listen to Yoo Kwon''s voice.

    The sh of swords followed a battle cry.

    Cuts and bruises covered their bodies, sweat and blood mixing and scattering on the ground.

    Does His Highness harbor feelings for my sister?

    Why should I exin that to you?

    Because I am, that childs brother.

    Without a word, Lee Bin lunged at Yoo Kwon. His sword carried a desire to sh.

    Excessive passion is a vice.

    That was one of the things Yoo Jungmo had taught him.

    Yoo Kwon suppressed his anger and deflected Lee Bins sword.

    How could such a thing

    However, the strength in Lee Bins sword intensified.

    Every spot his feet touched began to deeply erode.

    Are these a brothers eyes!

    It seems you truly do care.

    Despite his rxed words, Yoo Kwons grip on his sword gradually tightened.

    Then, Lee Bins sword thrust forward aiming for a critical hit.

    Just as Yooil gathered strength in his toes to dodge the sword, an unwee voice sounded.

    Heart rate decreased by 17bpm. Body temperature decreased by 1.9C. Oxygen saturation at 93.9%. Warning: Hypoxic state. Background Immersion will be terminated.

    Han Yooil sighed in frustration.

    <i>Just a little more I could have made it to the end.</i>

    Lying sprawled on the floor, Yooil gasped for air.

    That was when the front door of the studio apartment opened.

    Huh?! Yooil!!

    A familiar voice rang in his head.

    <i>Ah.</i>

    Yooil exhaled deeply. Sadly, he didn''t even have the strength to tightly close his eyes.

    * * *

    Min Woojin had been out of sorts all day.

    As soon as Min Woojin woke up, his phone rang nonstop with an emergency notification, demanding him to bring Yooil to thepany immediately. So, grabbing the spare key, he entered Yooil''s house, only to find him lying on the floor, looking like a lifeless body.

    Hey, Woojin! Did you pick up Actor Yooil?

    Thats I just entered the studio apartment, and

    Woojin, sweating, barely managed to continue.

    Whats happening here!

    Han Yooils condition was rming. Already pale, his face was ghostly white, and his breathing wasbored. He seemed barely able to keep his eyes open.

    <i>We need to get to the hospital.</i>

    Even a non-doctor could see that.

    But before Woojin could speak, Yooil struggled to his feet and grabbed the phone.

    Yes, this is Han Yooil. Ill be right there.

    No, wait, Yooil!

    As Yooil ended the call forcibly and slowly stood up, Woojin looked at him as if he was a wounded quail.

    Im really fine, hyung.

    His breathing hadntpletely stabilized yet.

    <i>But its not the hospital.</i>

    A bit of rest would naturally help him recover. He didnt want to unnecessarily worry anyone at thepany. After finally convincing Woojin, Yooil agreed to lie down in the car on the way.

    Only after getting into the car did Han Yooil roughly understand what had happened.

    Precisely, through the summary organized by Brion.

    <i>I was too busy practicing to see the news</i>

    There were more posts circting in variousmunities than he expected.

    Woojin, noticing Yooils concern, spoke diligently.

    The agency is about to release a statement The director and the chairman were worried about leaving you alone, so they asked me to bring you in.

    <i>Im okay.</i>

    But he didnt mind the consideration.

    Yooil was a bit surprised to see Director Jang Jaeyi in sweatpants and a headband, and Chairman Jang Jaehyun in casual clothes rather than a suit. However, they seemed surprised that Yooils condition wasnt as bad as they feared.

    Im fine. Its just an article after all.

    Thats a relief.

    After scrutinizing Yooil, Chairman Jang spoke with a satisfied expression.

    Were currently contacting all the media outlets that are spreading the articles like wildfire. It wont be long before they disappear from the portal sites. Well filewsuits against the media outlets that published malicious articles.

    Chairman Jangs lips curled up as he said, We have plenty of money and time, so no worries.

    However, an unexpected event urred.

    Just a few minutes before the statement prepared by JJ Entertainment was to be released, an anonymous post appeared.

    It was a post that could change the course of events.

    I am the person involved in the Han Yooil-rted articles. I apologize.

    [I started being a fan after watching a drama featuring Actor Han Yooil a few months ago]

    The post was very long.

    To summarize, the writer imed they identally learned Han Yooils home address, entered his home, and now deeply regretted their actions.

    Of course, themunity started buzzing as if they were waiting for it.

    When the agencys statement was also posted, the atmosphere shifted dramatically.

    In just a few hours, the controversy surrounding Yooil, which wasnt even a controversy, vanished, leaving only a trace.

    * * *

    It was suspicious from the start, h h < If only it really disappeared

    [It was just half a day, but I almost died of anxiety How can someone be turned into a criminal in an instant; Im so done with people here, seriously]

    Seriously My heart was racing

    I have all the assault usations saved as PDFs, ready for awsuit^^

    Really I knew it

    Not just the people on the forums

    [Breaking and entering;; Is Han Yooil okay mentally?]

    Exactly.. during the busiest time, he didn''t show any signs of stress Ha

    I hope he didn''t take it too much to heart It''s really upsetting

    Why would they do this to someone who was trying to quietly move past it

    Humanity, crispy and burnt..

    I really hope Han Yooil stays strong..

    More than anything

    [Im relieved we can peacefully watch The Sun and the Moon I was really scared]

    Seriously, can''t wait to watch The Sun and the Moon

    The final shooting ends today

    Heart racing..

    <i>Is everything settled now?</i>

    Yooil closed the window showing the reactions and looked out of the car window. The familiar filming set wasing into view.

    He was on his way to thest shooting of <The Sun and the Moon>.

    As soon as he arrived, the makeup team looked at him with eyes full of concern.

    Actor is it really thest day?

    Im going to miss it

    Yooil finished his makeup while taking various selfies with the staff.

    After the makeup, there was news waiting for Yooil.

    Today, Kang Hyesung is dyed due to personal reasons so we might need to adjust the shooting schedule a bit. We appreciate your understanding.

    Yooil nodded in response.

    So, the shooting will be dyed a bit.

    Yes It seems so

    As the youngest staff member stuttered, Yooil gave a gentle smile.

    Thats okay. I like waiting. I have to work on my assignments anyway.

    Excuse me?

    sses have started.

    The staff member, disoriented by the topsy-turvy schedule, thought he heard wrong.

    But when Yooil pulled out aptop from his bag and proved his point, the staff members eyes widened in astonishment.

    Youre attending school now?!

    Seeing the astonished face of the staff, Yooil gave a sheepish smile.

    He had seriously considered taking a leave of absence, but it seemed better to graduate sooner rather thanter.

    As Yooil sat in his chair with his name on it, writing a report for the general education course <Humanity and History>, someone flopped into the chair next to him.

    It was Lee Bohee, who was about to enter shooting soon.

    Hello, senior.

    Ah, ah. Yes. Yooil Mr. Yooil.

    Lee Bohee looked quite flustered.

    After ncing around for a while, she suddenly spoke.

    Im sorry.

    Startled by the unexpected apology, Yooil looked puzzled. Lee Bohee raised her hand as if to scratch her head.

    Then realizing that the makeup team had spent a good deal of time on her hair, she clenched her fist in the air.

    Damn, I should have just said everything earlier. I didnt because I wasnt sure.

    What are you talking about

    As Han Yooil looked at her bewilderedly, Lee Bohee bit her lip and continued.

    Did you hear about the thing with Kang Hyesung?

    Dropping the term oppa, Lee Bohee began with a serious expression.

    The doom-bringer.

 Chapter 86:

    Chapter 86:

    What?

    Yooil''s brow furrowed at the unexpected term.

    A nickname, The doom-bringer,'' has emerged for Kang Hyesung as several male actors who worked with him saw their image plummet due to controversies.

    While digesting the overly informative exnation, Yooil slowly nodded.

    Its all Kang Hyesungs doing.

    Yooil blinked at Lee Bohees statement.

    Seeing Han Yooils confused look, Lee Bohee borated,

    Those male actors who fell from grace, it was all Kang Hyesungs doing. Its been that way for a while. Since we did a drama together 9 years ago.

    !

    ''Kim Dohyun'', the lead of <Noble One>, took a few years off due to school violence controversies.

    It wasnt like that at first but it got weirder. Maybe something got into him at the agency Anyway, the article about you, thats Kang Hyesungs doing too.

    Are you certain?

    98.9% certain. I overheard him talking to someone.

    Lee Bohee exined that she hadnt heard everything from start to finish.

    I think he said something like, Make a big deal out of a juicy item. Probably talking to a reporter.

    Sighing, he added,

    I wanted to believe it wasnt him. I thought hedy low this time.

    <i>I see.</i>

    Yooil hadnt even considered that possibility.

    Certainly, Chairman Jang Jaehyun would want to know about this.

    Thank you for telling me, senior.

    It''s nothing. Im just beating the drum after the battle is over

    Just then, the assistant director''s voice chimed in.

    Were about to take the shot~

    * * *

    Meanwhile, as Han Yooil and Lee Bohee were busy filming, Kang Hyesung arrivedte and was getting his makeup done.

    With a sour expression, he grabbed her phone as soon as the makeup team left.

    No, thats not what we agreed on!

    Kang Hyesung kept her voice low while on the call.

    You promised to find a solid angle to explode this What is this, huh?

    Listen Its not a joke over here either. JJ is making a fuss about suing us.

    Ha, and youre ming this prank on us?

    Kang Hyesung pressured, but the other party was not easily swayed.

    You said youd cover for us, so I pushed it but this is not what we agreed on.

    So this is how you y?

    Kang Hyesung bit his lip.

    Listen. Putting everything else aside Can you really assure us that T.O. Entertainment will handle everything?

    Oh, dont worry about that. You know weve handled things like this before.

    Irritatedly ending the call, Kang Hyesung sighed heavily.

    Tsk.

    Annoying.

    He muttered to himself while taking a sip of his Americano.

    Uh, sir.

    Yeah.

    Its a call from the manager

    Tell them Im busy right now.

    Normally, such a response would suffice to end the conversation. However, unusually, his manager stood firm, phone in hand.

    But it seems the manager is busier than you are right now.

    <i>What now?</i>

    Kang Hyesung grimaced as he took the phone. As soon as the manager handed it over, he quickly left the waiting room.

    Hello~?

    Kang Hyesung answered the call with his usual nonchnt demeanor.

    However, what came back was a voice sharp enough to sting the ears.

    Hey! Kang Hyesung, you jerk!

    Kang Hyesung involuntarily flinched at the managers voice.

    Manager~?

    Yeah, its me, you bastard.

    The manager didnt waste any time and started berating.

    Is this mess with Han Yooil your doing? Are you out of your mind? Getting pampered all the time made you think youre the king or something?! Huh?!

    Caught off guard by the unexpected outburst, Kang Hyesung quickly regained herposure and put on a calcted smile.

    No Manager, didnt we wrap up these discussions a long time ago?

    Ha Sure. But why did you have to mess with JJ of allpanies, you XXX?!

    JJ?

    Momentarily furrowing her brow in thought, Kang Hyesung realized it was Han Yooils agency.

    Whys that?

    Thatpanys boss is a total nutjob. A real madman!

    What do you mean

    You remember Park Younghyun, right? You pulled him out of there. Do you know how much they harassed ourpany back then?

    He hadnt considered the specifics of the agency, only thinking about removing an obstacle.

    Kang Hyesung stood holding the phone, his face nk.

    * * *

    Even after leaving the waiting room, Kang Hyesung was still in a daze.

    His mind waspletely nk.

    <i>This isnt right.</i>

    Things had gotten tangled up worse than he could have imagined.

    Male actors his age usually had somethinge up  clubbing, rough high school years, liking women, etc.

    <i>But just that one thinges out?</i>

    And it ended up garnering sympathy solely for Han Yooil.

    Moreover, he just heard that his agency was like a rabid dog on the chase.

    Senior, are you okay?

    Han Yooil looked as calm as ever. That just annoyed Kang Hyesung even more.

    <i>It''s all because of this guy.</i>

    If only Han Yooil hadnt taken the role of Yoo Kwon, if the role hadnt been strong enough to push the lead aside

    Kang Hyesung gritted her teeth and spoke.

    Lets just get it over with. Im not feeling well.

    Understood.

    The camera started rolling, and Director Do Junhwan shouted, Action!

    Why make such a choice?

    The scene began and ended with Lee Bins line.

    The action and lines flowed seamlessly.

    Cut!

    Director Do Junhwan began monitoring with a serious expression.

    But Yooil was tilting his head in thought.

    <i>Somethings missing.</i>

    It was a simr sense of dissatisfaction he felt while practicing at the action school.

    The quality is different.

    The difference was that he felt it not from himself, but from his co-actor.

    It was unpleasant to know the other party had not liked him from the start, and even attempted to send him to doom.''

    But what was most unpleasant was that the other party wasnt acting properly.

    Director.

    Hmm? What is it, Yooil?

    Id like to go for another take.

    Director Do Junhwan was puzzled.

    <i>This take was fine though.</i>

    But as soon as the new take started, the director revised his thoughts. Han Yooils acting was fiercer than before.

    <i>Oh?</i>

    Director. Im really sorry. Can we go for one more time?

    Kang Hyesung, ring at Han Yooil as if to kill him,plied with the directors question of Is it okay with you too, Hyesung?''

    Action!

    And so the third, fourth takes began.

    <i>Whats this, theres still this much energy left?</i>

    Given the weight of the swords used in the action scene, it was bound to be physically taxing.

    But Yoo Kwons sword was sharper and more menacing.

    It wasnt just about swinging the sword.

    <i>Hespletely devouring the scene.</i>

    Completely exhausted, Kang Hyesung seemed like a ything in Han Yooil''s hands. Director Do Junhwan narrowed his eyes, focusing on the monitoring.

    <i>Better than I thought.</i>

    Even though it had slightly deviated from the script, the picture on the camera looked quite impressive.

    Now even the director was curious about the next take.

    However, Han Yooils endless takes soon came to an abrupt end.

    Damn it, are you insane? Are you trying to kill someone?!

    Unable to hold back anymore, Kang Hyesung stormed off the set.

    What just happened?

    Why, whats going on?

    Kang Hyesung staggered off the set, his legs barely supporting him. Whispers from around pierced his ears.

    But what mattered to him at the moment wasnt the gossip.

    <i>Damn it.</i>

    Kang Hyesung was more afraid of what was toe.

    Maybe it was because of that fear.

    He didnt even notice one of the staff recording her with a phone.

    * * *

    Amidst the unsettled atmosphere among the production crew after thest shoot, the viewers, oblivious to the behind-the-scenes drama, were just eagerly awaiting the final episode.

    Cant wait

    Feels like my heart''s going to leap out of my mouth

    Im so nervous thinking about watching The Sun and the Moon, but also sad it''s the final episode..

    Why cant it just go on forever

    Finally, the evening of thest episode of <The Sun and the Moon> arrived.

    HM was among those waiting for the final episode. After sessfully passing her exams and quitting her job studying for the civil service, HM was enjoying the best unemployed life.

    <i>This is life.</i>

    HM sat in front of the television with her parents, watching the opening.

    Her parents, who loved historical dramas, had been watching every episode of <The Sun and the Moon> since its first airing.

    Thest episode started with a close-up of Yoo Kwons face.

    Wow~ So handsome.

    Hes a bad guy, whats the use of being handsome?

    If hes handsome, hes a good guy!

    While her parents discussed Yoo Kwons looks, HM focused all her attention on the screen.

    After it was revealed that Yoo Dohwa had immunity to the gue midway through, she concentrated on using her blood to create a cure.

    After hundreds, thousands of attempts, Yoo Dohwa finally seeded in creating a cure.

    A medicine made by boiling the bark of the willow tree, fruit of the ratbane tree, and leaves of the miles away, then dropping a drop of her own blood in the final stage. It was the most effective cure that used the least amount of her blood.

    But as more people were cured, rumors of a living medicine'' spread, and even assassins targeting Yoo Dohwa appeared.

    Yoo Kwon, who had been away from Yoo Dohwa for a while, helping Prince Im Yeon, rushed to her aid when she was in danger.

    After swiftly dispatching the assassins targeting her, Yoo Kwon looked down at Yoo Dohwa with a serene face.

    Youre in danger again. As usual.

    Again, you say.

    You were always like this. If you were out of sight, you were surely stirring up some trouble.

    That was what he found amusing, though.

    Yoo Kwon whispered quietly. Yoo Dohwa avoided his piercing gaze.

    Do you harbor affection for that man?

    Yoo Kwon asked abruptly.

    He knew Yoo Dohwa. She was someone who would choose frolicking in the meadows over being confined in a luxurious room.

    So, if she had a choice, it would naturally be by his side, not Lee Bins

    Thats what he thought.

    You said you disliked a position that binds you, that doesnt allow you to be yourself.

    His Highness is not that kind of person.

    Ha!

    Yoo Kwon genuinelyughed.

    Crown Princess Was it truly that position you coveted!

    I have never coveted any position.

    Then why!

    Yoo Kwons eyes quivered.

    Why dont you see me?

    Is it really that I don''t exist in your heart?

    Am I someone you can''t have?

    All those questions were entangled in the gaze that Yoo Kwon directed at Yoo Dohwa.

    <i>Gasp!</i>

    HM, forgetting her parents were right beside her, started to curse in awe.

    Wow, XX, this is insane

    Mind yournguage.

    As viewers frantically typedments while watching the drama live, the chat was exploding with rapid messages.

    This is insane

    (Comment from someone who''s already dead)

    The poison tastes sweet

    Dohwa is badass I would have followed Yoo Kwon out of fear

    Im seriously getting butterflies Is this abnormal?

    Beep, you''re normal

    Yoo Kwon''s attempts to win Dohwas heart faced yet another setback.

    Prince Im Yeon''s rebellion to seize the throne also ends in failure.

    The highlight was the final showdown between Lee Bin and Yoo Kwon.

    And in that scene, Han Yooil acted as if he was truly out of his mind.

    Does His Highness harbor feelings for my sister?

    Yoo Kwon''s lips twisted into a smirk.

    Then he started swinging his sword with a look that could devour Lee Bin.

    It was a fierce performance that overshadowed his co-actor.

    The moment that broke Yoo Kwon, after toying with Lee Bin who chased him with all his might, was a single line from Lee Bin.

    How could such a thing be the eyes of a brother!

    And then, bloodied, Lee Bin delivered the final blow. Yoo Kwon fell slowly, his body impaled by the sword.

    Blood flowed from Yoo Kwon''s mouth and eyes. The added sound of blood in the editing process sent shivers down the spine of everyone watching in their cozy living rooms.

    You will never understand.

    Yoo Kwon''s eyes were filled with rage, frustration and madness.

    Nor will you.

    Lee Bin, who had been watching him with cold eyes, finally spoke.

    Do you even know what color Dohwa likes? Which season she prefers to walk in? Isn''t your mind upied only by yourself?

    Yoo Kwons empty eyes filled the screen

    And the scene shifted.

    Wow, held my breath while watching.

    Why am I crying?

    Yoo Kwon dont die

    Dont kill, and dont die

    Han Yooils acting, what''s going on?

    Its a fight scene but I only see Yoo Kwon, is this right?

    In The Sun and the Moon,'' the moon is Yoo Kwon, right?

    Is Kang Hyesung not feeling well? Why does he seem so powerless?

    Agree

    Prince Seongwon, with the robust support of Lee Bin, ensures that Dohwas cure spreads across the nation.

    Lee Bin is smoothly appointed as the Crown Prince, and Dohwa, having yed a crucial role in eradicating the gue, is honored with the title of Chaste and Respectful Lady''. It was a title usually given to the wives of civil/military officials but was awarded considering her heroic role in a crisis that could have led to the nations downfall.

    Yearster, the drama ends with a scene of Lee Bin, now a wise king, strolling through the pce with Dohwa by his side.

    It was a beautiful story

    As long as Dohwa is happy

    Kwon-ah

    I wonder is our Kwon lying in a ce bathed in sunlight..?

    Maybe he was disgracefully discarded somewhere

    DamnThat''s too cruel

    HM closed the door and quietly swallowed her tears.

    She never knew the pain of rooting for a secondary male lead could be this tormenting.

    HM began furiously uploading her tearful BlueChat posts.

    Thats when she saw it.

    What?

    HM stumbled upon an unexpected post.

 Chapter 87:

    Chapter 87:

    HM''s eyes caught a link to a video posted on a BlueChat ount. Almost hypnotized, she clicked on the video. The footage showed two people in the center, surrounded by cameras and crew, though the image was blurry. It was clearly a filming set.

    Damn it, are you insane? Are you trying to kill someone?!

    <i>What''s this?</i>

    A man in a blue robe, his face fierce as he shouted. Anyone who watched <The Sun and the Moon> would recognize him.

    Thats Kang Hyesung.

    <i>Is this some kind of joke?</i>

    But the video, showing the flustered crew and the manager rushing out to apologize, clearly wasnt a prank.

    Kang Hyesung Screaming During Filming

    The original video was a short clip posted on OTube with a simple title.

    Though the ount that uploaded the original video was soon deleted, the footage continued to be replicated and spread acrossmunities and social media.

    Huh?

    Isn''t this from the final episode of The Sun and the Moon?

    What''s up with Kang Hyesung?

    Wow

    Looks like a staff member filmed it..?

    Damn..

    Themunity post that uploaded the video was quickly flooded withments.

    Didnt Kang Hyesung really manage his image?

    Yeah, yeah;;

    Is he yelling at Han Yooil..?

    What''s wrong with his personality?

    As the video spread to other forums, the reactions became even more diverse.

    Oh my in front of adults too;;

    Isn''t he the one who cried about his parents on Late Night Star? Thought she was kind and gentle, disappointing.

    Screaming like that is so scary

    I enjoyed watching The Sun and the Moon~. Isn''t this too different from Prince Seongwon''s image?

    However, not everyone reacted negatively.

    Particrly, Kang Hyesungs fans stood firm amidst the controversy.

    They cut the context and just show this, what are they supposed to do?

    Exactly what if they didnt coordinate the ad-lib properly?

    Maybe he got angry because the action scenes didn''t sync well?

    My actor already looked unwell, this is really upsetting

    And the protagonist at the center of the controversy had gone off the grid, cutting off allmunication.

    * * *

    What Happened on the Set of The Sun and the Moon''? Kang Hyesungs Side: "Please Refrain from Baseless Spection"

    "Itspletely unfounded," T.O. Entertainment to Take Firm Action Against Kang Hyesung Controversy

    Kang Hyesung, Controversy Over Shouting on the Set of The Sun and the Moon'' What''s the Truth?

    A few hourster, a handful of articles released by T.O. Entertainment popped up on portal sites. But the view counts were meagerpared to the articles highlighting the controversy itself.

    <i>Damn it</i>

    Kang Hyesung frantically scrolled through the never-ending headlines on his phone, his hair in disarray from being constantly tugged and tousled.

    He hadn''t nned on living like a recluse from the start.

    When the video first began to spread, he hurried to his agency. But the pleas he made to cover it up were met with nothing but disregard and mockery.

    You should have behaved yourself. The only thing you''re good at is managing your image Why would we invest in you?

    There was also the fact that his contract renewal was approaching. It was clear why they were being so straightforward.

    Frustrated, he had his manager contact the drama productionpany, but all he got was a formal reply.

    The person who leaked the video was a frencer They were there just for a day as a temporary assistant. Currently, we don''t have much information. We''re looking into it and will contact youter.

    For the productionpany, having sessfullypleted the drama, it was wise to distance themselves as much as possible.

    Of course, for Kang Hyesung, it was poison.

    "Damn it, damn it!"

    Kang Hyesung, with tears welling up in his eyes, furiously threw his phone. It shattered into pieces.

    Everything.

    It was all troublesome.

    Despite the tearful efforts of fans to defend him in thements, the controversy that had erupted was not easily subdued.

    Netizens were relentless, reinterpreting Lee Bohee''s remarks in the drama''s behind-the-scenes or revisiting what celebrities had said about Kang Hyesung in the past, creating a new narrative.

    Another spark was ignited when a post by a former industry insider was uploaded.

    I am a former industry insider who has worked with the actor in question.

    [I worked in the broadcasting industry for a long time. Although I''m in apletely different field now, I''ve encountered many celebrities during my time. The first thing that came to my mind seeing the recent controversy was it was bound to happen''.]

    The post detailed how Kang Hyesung behaved differently when talking to experienced directors or cinematographerspared to when he was dealing with junior staff, even mentioning specific instances of his rude remarks. Among these, there were frequent ounts of him mistreating co-actors with less experience than him.

    In <The Sun and the Moon>, where Han Yooil appeared as a rival, these sentences were enough to spark people''s imaginations.

    It must have been worse than what was shown in the video,'' people thought.

    What, it wasn''t just yelling;

    Weren''t there a few scenes where Han Yooil and Kang Hyesung had to work together?

    Yeah

    Ah, just d it''s all over..^^

    What a waste of a good drama

    The post, like the original abuse controversy'' video, was soon deleted, but screenshots continued to circte and remained popr in themunity.

    Such provocative stories were bound to attract attention.

    From a cliffhanger to a real cliff fall''

    Actors currently being re-evaluated due to the  controversy (Warning: Long post)

    Bloggers and cyber clickbaiters on O''Tube started posting articles and videos with sensational titles to inte their view counts.

    * * *

    "Excuse me, President Jang Jaehyun."

    Jang Jaeyi looked at President Jang with a bitter expression.

    "What''s wrong?"

    "Manage your expression a bit. Everyone is scared."

    "Whats wrong with my expression."

    At Jang Jaehyun''s words, Jang Jaeyi''s eyes narrowed.

    "Look in the mirror. You look like a hyena that just feasted. It''s intimidating."

    Jang Jaehyun just shrugged his shoulders.

    He couldn''t help but feel good.

    <i>I was curious who started all this''</i>

    He hadn''t expected it to be the unteral action of an actor.

    <i>TO Entertainment wouldn''t have just let it be if they had known.''</i>

    He had many cards to y against TO Entertainment. Yet, despite not showing a single one of them, the game was turning out quite interestingly.

    <i>Its still too early, though.''</i>

    It would be unwise to assume this actors controversy over his behavior would just fade away.

    As he indulged in these pleasant thoughts, Jang Jaeyi snapped at him.

    "Hurry up and rx your face. Were about to call Yooil."

    At her words, Jang Jaehyun reverted to his usual expression.

    * * *

    Meanwhile, Yooil had just arrived at JJ Entertainment.

    Noticing Yooils mood, Min Woojin spoke cautiously.

    "Weve arrived, Yooil."

    As Han Yooil smiled and got out of the car as usual, Woojins face finally rxed.

    But there was an entity near Yooil that he couldn''t hide his feelings from.

    Arent you pleased?

    The emotionless voice rang out.

    <i>No.</i>

    Han Yooil was not pleased. It was natural. There was no reason to be happy or to like the situation.

    It was just bitter.

    <i>What was missing that made him do such a thing?''</i>

    Kang Hyesung was undoubtedly a talented actor. He had the looks and the acting skills.

    It seems like the desire to be the best manifested itself in an unhealthy manner.

    <i>I get that, but</i>

    So

    Why?

    He understood it intellectually, but it didnt make sense emotionally.

    Have you never felt inferiority''? The emotion that arises when you be aware of your own shorings throughparison with others

    <i>I know that.</i>

    The sense of being inferior to others.

    <i>Isnt that natural?''</i>

    Han Yooil had never once thought to himself that he had done well.''

    Thats why he felt anxious studying all night as a student, and even now, while practicing, he couldnt shake off the doubt.

    Lately, he had been less anxious, thanks to his background support, but still.

    With Brions long silence, Yooil entered thepany.

    "Yooil. Good to see you."

    Jang Jaeyi, who greeted him with a bright smile, frowned as soon as she saw Yooils face.

    "Yooil, you are eating properly, right?"

    Woojin, who came inte, cheerfully answered on behalf of Yooil.

    "Woojin and Yooil had ssambap together!"

    "Thats the best news Ive heard today."

    Manager Jang Jaeyi handed him a tablet.

    "Yooil, can you take a look at this?"

    The tablet disyed captures from various variety shows.

    "This is"

    "<Jinhee>''s release date has been confirmed. Its set for the end of next month."

    <i>Ah.''</i>

    Caught up in the drama shooting, he had heard the news about the release date on set.

    It was then that the schedules he had heard about starteding back to him.

    "Yooil''s appearances on variety shows have always been well-received, so were thinking of having him on some shows for promotion."

    Manager Jang Jaeyi continued her exnation.

    "Though <Jinhee> is a masterpiece, the younger generation isn''t very familiar with it. Unless they are cinephiles, they probably don''t even know its name."

    <Jinhee> was a PG-15 movie. Since it wasn''t rated for adults only, promotion was crucial.

    "The primary target audience for promotion is the 20s and 30s, so weve shortlisted some variety shows considering that."

    Yooil carefully reviewed the titles of the variety shows listed on the tablet as he listened to the exnation.

    "The talk show format will feature you and actress Seo Hyunju. Her side has already agreed to any option, so you canfortably make your choice."

    Brion chimed in as if it had been waiting.

    Among the candidates, <Space Train> is rmended. It has the highest probability of yielding positive results in terms of promotion.

    As Yooil intently looked at the <Space Train> page, Manager Jang Jaeyi nodded and continued her exnation.

    "That show is a good choice. It has young hosts and insightful producers, and it''s well-rated. Being on ZBS, it''s one of the top in terms of recognition among O''Tube variety shows."

    <Space Train> is a web variety show with 1.3 million subscribers, hosted by Wooju (real name Woo Hyeju)'', who is also one of the main PDs of the program. It''s known for its appropriate use of memes and a steady increase in viewership.

    "Let''s go with this one."

    "Alright, well set the talk show to that one It would be good to appear on a terrestrial channel too."

    That was when President Jang Jaehyun spoke up.

    "Yooil."

    "Yes, President."

    "Do you like cooking?"

    "I think I prefer eating to cooking."

    "Thats good."

    President Jang Jaehyun smiled leisurely and reached out to the tablet that Yooil was holding.

    "I think it would be a good idea for Yooil to appear on this one."

    Following President Jang Jaehyun''s gaze, Yooil looked at the screen. At the tip of Jang''s finger was Park Heejin, holding a knife anddle.

    Park Heejin was a major figure in the restaurant industry, owning over five franchise restaurant brands.

    With his unique charm and witty demeanor, he had garnered favor from viewers and found himself appearing on various programs.

    A good choice. <Todays Table>. Commonly known as O''Sikdang, its a variety show that adopts a cooking show format, where the participants, selected from public applicants, divide into teams andpete based on the stories of the selected individuals.

    As Yooil read the name of the program, President Jang Jaehyun nodded.

    "Yooil."

    "Yes."

    "You know how to stir soup with adle, right?"

    "Yes."

    "And you can pick up beans with chopsticks?"

    "Yes."

    "Thats all you need."

    ?''

    And so, Yooil''s schedule for promotional variety shows officially kicked off.

 Chapter 88:

    Chapter 88:

    After finishing the meeting, Yooil headed straight to the gym after getting home and changing his clothes. As he was about to start his workout, a familiar window popped up in his vision.

    Calcting Stage 3 Goal Achievement Rate

    The message Calcting'' lingered for a few seconds before being reced by numbers.

    Stage 3 Goal Achievement Rate: 99.8%

    Stage 3 Goal Achievement Rate: 100%

    Soon after, Brion''s voice followed.

    Stage 3 Goal achieved 100%.

    Yooil exhaled the breath he had been holding.

    Done.''

    The Stage 3 he startedst October had finallye to an end.

    It felt like he had ovee a huge mountain.

    Now proceeding to Stage 4.

    As Yooil got on the treadmill, he thought to himself,

    The theme for Stage 4 was [My Own Thing].''

    While Stage 3, Reinterpretation'', had a visible path, Stage 4 felt much more challenging and ambiguous.

    Dont worry, Yooil. I will assist you from the scenario selection stage onwards.

    <i>''</i>

    Yooil listened to Brion''s voice and increased the treadmill''s speed.

    * * *

    A weekter, Yooil went down to the underground parking lot where Min Woojin was waiting. After finishing a backlog of tasks, going live briefly, and watching a movie with Jin Hayoung over the week, Yooil opened the car door with a bright face.

    "How are you feeling, Yooil?"

    "Good. How about you?"

    Min Woojin replied as if he had been waiting for the question.

    "Im so hungry I feel like my waist might snap, and my stomach is a bit queasy, but Im good!"

    "We still have some time, so let''s grab something to eat, Hyung."

    At Yooils suggestion, Woojins eyes sparkled as he turned to Yooil.

    "Yooil. I really like you"

    Han Yooil smiled at Min Woojin, who was excitedly pondering the menu. After finishing a bowl of bean sprout soup each, they headed towards their destination. The first schedule on the list of promotional variety shows was <Space Train>.

    The studio was bustling with about twenty staff members, including the director of photography and the lighting director.

    "Have you been well, senior?"

    "It''s been a while."

    Seo Hyunju, who they hadnt seen in a while, was dressed in a white tweed jacket and skirt.

    She approached Yooil with a bright smile.

    "I enjoyed the drama, Yooil."

    "Thank you, senior."

    "Thats not just lip service. I dont think anyone else could have yed Yoo Kwon as well as you did, Yooil."

    <i>!''</i>

    Yooil was taken aback by the unexpectedpliment and finally managed to respond.

    "Thank you."

    "Things have been hectic for youtely, havent they?"

    She continued calmly.

    "That''s just how this industry is. All sorts of people, all kinds of unbelievable things happening every day"

    Thinking of all the events from thest two years up to the present made her words resonate deeply.

    "Its okay, Im fine."

    Yooil responded, his voice steady and calm.

    Seo Hyunju responded to Yooil''s expression with a faint smile.

    "By the way, its your first time on a web variety show, isn''t it, senior?"

    "Yes, that''s right. I haven''t been on much variety, not just web variety."

    Seo Hyunju continued with a smile curling at the edges of her lips.

    "That''s why I like it. I''m looking forward to it. In fact, I wanted to appear before but didnt have the chance."

    Seo Hyunju answered with an unburdened face. Yooil felt as if he could briefly see the life she had lived as a mysterious actress'' for over 20 years in her eyes.

    Just then, the writer called them at the perfect time.

    "Actors, we''re ready for you now!"

    As they exited the waiting room, a set decorated with a whimsical, fairy-tale-like atmosphere, reminiscent of an old cartoon, awaited them.

    Contrary to the calm opening music, Wooju''s (real name: Woo Hyeju) bubbly voice struck their ears.

    "Choo-choo, puff-puff! The train everyone has been waiting for! The 83rd Space Train has arrived~!"

    Wooju, shaking her trademark blue ombre bob, single-handedly carried the opening for over five minutes. Yooil, sitting with Seo Hyunju in the waiting seats signing autographs, was genuinely amazed at her rapid-fire speaking.

    Without changing her expression, Wooju filled the audio tirelessly and, receiving a sign from the writer, smoothly wrapped up her lines.

    "Now, that aside the passengers havent arrived yet! Ah! Here theye!"

    At her words, Han Yooil and Seo Hyunju stood up and walked towards the set. As they handed over the train tickets given by the production team, Wooju yfully punched a hole in the ticket.

    "You would have missed the train if you were anyter~ Hurry and take a seat, hurry!"

    "Ah, sorry."

    As Yooil bowed his head in apology, Wooju added with a teasing tone.

    "As long as you know!"

    As Wooju spoke, Seo Hyunju began tough, and Min Woojin, watching from behind the production team, also burst intoughter.

    "Then, our train is departing!"

    With that, the shooting for <Space Train> began in an excited atmosphere.

    * * *

    In the lounge of apany located in the heart of Seoul, an office worker was eating fried rice from a Lock&Lock container while waiting for a YouTube video to be released.

    Specifically, they were waiting for the video to go live.

    The office worker wasn''t usually keen on web variety shows, but today was different.

    It was understandable. It was a variety show featuring Han Yooil.

    <i>Ah! It''s out!''</i>

    The office worker had even packed a lunch box just for this asion. They clicked the video while trying to suppress their rising cheeks.

    Episode 83 of <Space Train> started with Wooju''s smooth yet slightly chaotic opening lines. The faces of Han Yooil and Seo Hyunju, watching Wooju speak alone with wide eyes, were shown in cross-editing.

    [Amazing]

    [Like seeing a new life form]

    Especially Yooil''s face, looking at Wooju, was as serious and curious as if he were a scientist observing a research subject.

    Watching the actors enjoy the set and concept of <Space Train> was fun, but the banter between Wooju and Han Yooil was also an entertaining element.

    Sorry.

    As long as you know! [Sassy]

    Under Yooil''s face, which widened in surprise again, a small shocked puppy face was edited in.

    "Pfft."

    The viewers in the livement section seemed to share the sentiment.

    LOL

    Look at Han Yooil''s expression

    Ah, ssic Wooju LOL

    In the meantime, Seo Hyunju is just so beautiful

    So, these two are in the same movie now, right? (Excited)

    Now, everyone, you''re passing through the Milky Way where filmography falls like stars!

    Wooju, receiving a star-shaped cardboard through the window, spoke with a bright smile.

    "Let''s start with Seo Hyunju~!"

    Soon, she cheerfully removed the sticker concealing the content. A legendarymercial capture from over 20 years ago appeared.

    The woman with ss marble eyes!

    Oh my.

    As Wooju mimicked the pose from themercial and eximed, Seo Hyunju covered her face, embarrassed. Then the camera closed up on Yooil, who was smiling and looking at her.

    The editing went a step further, oveying a pink filter and background music between them.

    Wait a minute! What are you doing now! Dont turn this into a romance scene right here! Whats with those eyes!

    Huh?

    Ah! No! Dont look at me like that either!

    After reviewing Seo Hyunju''s significant filmography one by one, Wooju now turned her sparkling eyes toward Yooil.

    Next is Yooil! Yooil''s first filmography is!

    The office worker watched Woojus fingertips ready to peel off the sticker, guessing what the photo inside might be.

    <From the Ground>? Or a music video? No, maybe <Sing in High School>''

    With anticipation in their eyes, the office worker''s eyes suddenly widened.

    <i>Huh?''</i>

    It was something neither the office worker nor anyone else in the Yooil Unique'' fandom had seen before.

    In the photo, Han Yooil was on stage, kneeling before another female actress, wearing a fluttering ivory shirt. Despite the blurry image quality, his expression was unmistakably that of someone in love.

    <i>What y is this?!''</i>

    However, Yooil in the video seemed as surprised as the office worker.

    How did you get this?

    You remember this time, don''t you?

    Of course.

    The sentiment reflected on Yooil''s face was a subtle longing.

    It was the first time I acted. The y was called Romeo in Wondend.''

    And Yooil yed Romeo, right?

    That''s right.

    <i>Crazy!''</i>

    A y before <From the Ground>!

    The office worker wished they could find even a video of it if possible.

    Then, the office worker''s fan moment was interrupted.

    "Uh, manager, I thought you dont watch Space Train''?"

    "Just nothing else to watch."

    The office worker tried hard to hide their expression. Telling their colleagues I''ve packed lunch, so I''ll eat alone in the lounge today'' was, of course, a choice made to indulge in their fandomfortably.

    "Manager, by any chance do you like Han Yooil?"

    ""

    The office worker subtly avoided the gaze of the colleague, who seemed unlikely to know about fangirling, with innocent eyes.

    "Yes. I think he''s not bad among the actors these days."

    "My sister also really likes that actor. She even joined the fan club! The name was "

    "Mooyi?"

    Oops.

    The office worker realized they had almost given up pretending to be a casual fan. Fortunately, the oblivious colleague didn''t seem to notice.

    "Yes! She joined that and said she''s going to some premiere or something"

    The colleague added a few words about how his sister from Wolmyeong University had been following Han Yooil before standing up.

    "Ah, I''ve disturbed you too much. Sorry, manager. Enjoy your viewing!"

    <i>''</i>

    The office worker blinked slowly. They were more distracted than embarrassed about being caught fangirling. Suddenly, they remembered the first time they saw Han Yooil in the theater.

    "Back then, finding someone I knew was much harder."

    Not anymore.

    For the office worker, this was the first time they had ever been so wholly enamored with someone beyond the screen.

    Wow, Yooil~ You''ve really been working like an ox!

    Not at all. There''s still a lot I need to do.

    Oh,e on~ You''re just being greedy!

    Over two years.

    In that time, Han Yooil had participated in quite a number of works, each receiving favorable reviews.

    <i>Really He''s lived his life so diligently. My actor.''</i>

    The office worker felt a surge of affection for Han Yooil and refocused on the video.

    Now it''s time to talk about Jinhee''! A story about Jinhee, a woman who lived without knowing the joys of life, meeting the mysterious young man, Kiwoon, and the romance that unfolds. It''s also a masterpiece by the legendary Korean director Kim Soobong.

    That''s right.

    So, Yooil, why don''t you start by telling us what Kiwoon thinks of Jinhee?

    And then, at an unexpected moment, the office worker''s heart skipped a beat.

    Jinhee'', to Kiwoon, is like his breath''.

    Yooil paused for a moment, lowered his gaze, then lifted his head again. He stared intently into the camera as he continued.

    Without Jinhee'' Kiwoon wouldn''t exist.

    Was it the content of his words or the unusual look in his eyes?

    At that moment, Han Yooil felt strangely unfamiliar to the office worker.

    <i>!!!''</i>

    In a good way, of course.

    Thanks to that, the office worker managed to stay alert through the afternoon without any caffeine.

    * * *

    Han Yooil and Seo Hyunju''s episode of <Space Train> hit 1 million views in just three days.

    Han Yooil, who had recently cemented his reputation with stable acting in <The Sun and The Moon>, and Seo Hyunju, the quintessential mysterious actress, contributed to the rapid rise in viewership.

    Especially since Seo Hyunju rarely made public appearances outside of her work, her mere presence in the show was intriguing.

    30 minutes flew by (Likes: 1.3k)

    For the first time, actors who didn''t get overwhelmed by Wooju''s energy (Likes: 1.1k)

    Isn''t this Seo Hyunju''s first variety appearance??? Wish she woulde on more often (Likes: 341)

    The chemistry between these two, what''s going on (Likes: 236)

    Naturally, there were manyments about Han Yooil as well.

    Yooil is really like an ox (Likes: 1.4k)

    How can Han Yooil''s voice be so nice (Likes: 425)

    But Yooil hasn''t debuted that long ago, what''s with his filmography (Likes: 286)

    Plus, he''s served in the military

    His presence is calming

    The fact that we can watch him continuously without any breaks makes me so happy

    Ultimately, Han Yooil''s decision to appear on <Space Train> was the right one.

    The lively and cheerful program led by Wooju,bined with the amiable and entertaining conversation between two likable actors, naturally piqued people''s curiosity.

    And that curiosity expanded into anticipation for the movie <Jinhee>.

    So, when is the movie releasing again? (Likes: 572)

 Chapter 89:

    Chapter 89:

    President Jang Jaehyun: <Space Train> is getting great reactions.

    President Jang Jaehyun: You''ve worked hard, Yooil.

    Yooil replied to the text from President Jang while getting into the car.

    Thank you.

    But President, I''ve heard that there are quite a few scriptsing in for Director Jang. Could I review some scripts this week?

    Despite seeing the message, President Jang Jaehyun remained silent for a while.

    <i>I want to start on the next project.''</i>

    Yooil was eager to be involved in as many diverse works as possible, as soon as possible. At least for the next two years, he felt he needed to work like an ant.

    It wasnt just because of the achievement rate that floated before his eyes.

    He simply did not want to take a break from acting.

    <i>I want to do more and do it better.''</i>

    Thats a good attitude, Yooil.

    <i>''</i>

    Yooil got out of the car when Min Woojin announced they had reached their destination.

    He went down to the filming set on NBS''s basement floor 1. The staff guided Yooil to the waiting room marked with a green door and a paper.

    [<Todays Table> Cast Waiting Room]

    <i>This is interesting.''</i>

    The set of O''Sikdang'' resembled a cozy restaurant. The kitchen counter was arranged in a '' shape, and behind it was arge disy shelf filled with numerous ingredients.

    As the shooting began, the hosts and panelists started with a lively opening greeting.

    "Your dining table! Leave it to us~!"

    "Today''s Table is on us!"

    Park Heejin, one of the main hosts and mentors, was sitting with Lee Kanghoon and Gu Haeyoung, who had been actively participating in the entertainment industry for a long time, on either side of him.

    Among the panelists, there were some familiar faces. It was Jung Juha, whom Yooil had met during the promotion of Singin'' High'' on the show <Roll it Fun!>. She gave Yooil a slight smile when their eyes met.

    "And now, let''s introduce today''s guest chef!"

    With that introduction, Han Yooil walked in front of the camera.

    "Hello, I''m Han Yooil."

    Weed warmly, Yooil took his seat and engaged in light conversation with the panelists, as scripted. After the casual opening, the main guest, a civilian participant of the day, made their appearance.

    All the civilian participants in O''Sikdang'' wore giant, cute masks with only their mouths exposed. The mask was also a trademark of O''Sikdang''.

    Today''s participant wore a mask with a roon face drawn on it.

    "So, what dish would you like us to make for you today?"

    At Lee Kanghoon''s question, the participant hesitated before speaking.

    "Well, back in college, when I was a freshman there was this senior I liked."

    "Oh my!"

    Jung Juha covered her mouth with both hands as if she had been waiting to react.

    "I just love stories like this"

    "It''s already so sweet, so sweet~"

    Everyone added ament, smiling contentedly.

    "Back then, the senior made a very unique cream pasta for me."

    Listening to the story, Park Heejin''s eyes lit up with curiosity.

    "How was it unique?"

    "From what I remember it had doenjang in it."

    Hearing that, Park Heejin tilted her head in wonder.

    "Doenjang cream pasta isn''t that difficult to make, is it?"

    "I thought so too, so I tried making it several times at home but no matter how many times I made it, it just didn''t taste the same. It was creamy but had this smoother taste."

    "Did you ask for the recipe?"

    "No, we weren''t that close"

    A wave of disappointment passed over the panelists'' faces.

    Doenjang, cream, and pasta. Beyond those three ingredients, there was nothing more they could discern.

    Pasta is considered a rtively easy dish to make, almost next to ramen in simplicity. Even Yooil, who wasn''t confident in cooking, could handle it without much trouble.

    Of course, depending on the ingredients used, the vor could vary slightly.

    Listening to the conversation between the participant and the panelists, Yooil straightened up in his seat when Park Heejin stood up, signaling the end of the opening segment of O''Sikdang.''

    "Let''s start!"

    With that shout, a 30-minute timer appeared on therge LED screen behind the set.

    Lee Kanghoon quickly ushered Yooil and Jung Juha to the cooking counter.

    That''s right.

    O''Sikdang'' was a timed cooking variety show.

    "Stock! Chicken stock!"

    "Maybe sprinkle a bit more olive oil?"

    "Slice more onions!"

    The kitchen counters of both teams were like battlefields, filled with urgent shouts.

    "Hey where did all the sliced mushrooms go?!"

    "Here they are."

    "Oh, thank you, Yooil."

    Beep-beep-beep-

    An 8-minute timer went off, and Jung Juha, who was sauting onions, shouted.

    "Pasta! The pasta, please"

    Han Yooil, even before the sentence waspleted, naturally drained the pasta and evenly drizzled it with olive oil.

    Yooil continued to bustle around the kitchen, diligently performing his role as an assistant. His professionalism was quite impressive.

    <i>Wow.''</i>

    The PD of O''Sikdang'' watched him with interest.

    <i>He''s doing better than expected.''</i>

    Actors or idols of his age group usually took time to adapt. Even those known for being wless often panicked or made mistakes in such settings.

    Lee Kanghoon took the opportunity to throw a question at him.

    "Wow~ Yooil is killing it~! Have you worked in a restaurant before?"

    "Well, not for long but I did help out for a bit."

    "Really?"

    Lee Kanghoon''s warm face spread with surprise.

    "A friend of mine used to run a restaurant, and I filled in a few times."

    "Wow you look like a young master."

    "Such a surprising charm, a real surprise!"

    Both Lee Kanghoon and Jung Juha continued their banter without even looking at each other, amon urrence in the time-pressed O''Sikdang.''

    "Alright, 10 minutes left! Please rise."

    Park Heejin''s voice was heard, and the participant slowly stood up.

    In O''Sikdang'', 10 minutes before the deadline, the civilian participant would taste the dish and give a preliminary evaluation.

    The cast member first approached Han Yooil''s team and took a spoonful of sauce from a small bowl to taste.

    Jung Juha and Lee Kanghoon watched the storyteller''s face with trembling anticipation.

    "Does it taste the same as before, or is it different?"

    After pondering for a moment with a tilt of his head, the storyteller opened his mouth.

    "Uh it''s different."

    Upon hearing this, Jung Juha and Lee Kanghoon, who had been diligently making the sauce, were disheartened.

    "It seemed a bit smoother before."

    ""

    That was when Han Yooil made his move.

    After a moment of solitary contemtion, he whispered something to Lee Kanghoon and Jung Juha. Hearing the whisper, they looked at each other with their eyes slightly widened.

    "Can that really work?"

    "Let''s just try it! We''ve got nothing to lose!"

    Encouraged by Lee Kanghoon''s brisk response, Yooil smiled pleasantly.

    "!"

    The producer, witnessing the scene, sensed something.

    Perhaps Han Yooil could bring even more buzz than anticipated.

    * * *

    A few dayster.

    Lee Hyejin was holding her phone in bed.

    Despite the sleepless nights due to the team project viins she met after the new semester began, she was happy. At this particr moment, she could confidently say she was happy.

    She was watching a clip of Osikdak'' featuring Han Yooil.

    Of course, she had already watched the full version.

    11:32 Han Yooil here looks almost like an undercover part-timer

    I don''t even know how many times I''ve watched him taking noodles out

    Seriously, why is he so good? LOL

    Lee Hyejin scrolled through the newly addedments while watching Yooil, wearing an apron and bustling about.

    After the scene where the whispers of Han Yooil''s fans turned into screams of envy, it showed Han Yooil adding something to the sauce.

    It was soy milk.

    It was odd enough to add soy milk to an almost finished pasta, particrly to a doenjang cream pasta, but what was most surprising was thement of the cast member who tasted the pasta, covering their mouth and eximing:

    Uh this is it!

    !

    Upon hearing this, the opposing team was dejected, while Han Yooil''s team quickly embraced each other with brightened faces.

    Usually, Osikdak'' ends with Park Heejin salvaging the cooking failures and introducing new recipes. The act of saving failed dishes was also part of the fun.

    But this time was different. It ended without the need for Park Heejin''s intervention.

    <i>How can he cook so well''</i>

    As she mused, Lee Hyejin moved on to a clip she had watched several times. It was thest interview clip of Han Yooil and the production team.

    [How did you think of adding soy milk?]

    The sauce needed to be smoother. Heavy cream is too thick, and milk can be too rich, but soy milk is nutty and smooth.

    [How do you know so much?]

    Yooil scratched his head.

    Actually, my aunt likes soy milk pasta. I don''t make it often, but I do cook it for her sometimes.

    [!]

    Soon, you will be able to see the movie I starred in, Jinhee'', in theaters. I ask for your interest, and I hope everyone watching this program stays healthy.

    It was a perfect wrap-up.

    Around that time, as Han Yooil was actively promoting and nurturing his anticipation for his next project, the premiere date for Jinhee'' approached.

    * * *

    On the premiere day of Jinhee''.

    Critic Lee Byungsoo had been seated since five minutes before the movie started. He took a sip of water and slowly leaned back.

    <i>Director Won Heesu.''</i>

    When she released her first feature film 20 years ago, Lee Byungsoo had written a review. Back then, he was younger and more impulsive, gaining attention gradually through his cynical and sharp criticism.

    The most urate and piercing review.

    He had resolved to deliver such a review.

    There were many movies with decent production values, but good movies were rare, even more so in Korea.

    To him, steeped in disappointment over Korean cinema, Won Heesu''s first feature film, Turning Twenty Again'', was a shock.

    Because the movie was good.

    That day, Lee Byungsoo had given Turning Twenty Again'' a rating of 8 stars.

    However, the subsequent films of Won Heesu hadn''t met his expectations.

    Certainly, they captured the mainstream audience and gained a core fan base.

    <i>But theycked the freshness and sharpness of the first movie.''</i>

    So, now Lee Byungsoo was expecting.

    It was an expectation ready to be disappointed.

    Not only the director Won Heesu, but also the actor Han Yooil contributed to such sentiment. A young actor who had shown impressive performance in Yoo Jaeho''s The Last Diner''.

    <i>He seems to be a good actor.''</i>

    Han Yooil was still a rookie, a green young actor, and Lee Byungsoo was a cautious and old critic.

    Lee Byungsoo tapped the armrest of the cinema seat with his fingers, pondering.

    <i>There are plenty of actors whose careers only have a morous start.''</i>

    At that moment, the staff checked the audience''s entrance and closed the doors of the theater.

    Then, the ears were tickled by the fast melody of the violin, the soft and subtly powerful cello, and the heavy bass of the contrabass.

    It was the beginning of the opening sequence of Jinhee''.

    <i>A smooth start.''</i>

    He watched the scene of Jinhee cleaning the house with indifferent eyes, apanied by rhythmic music.

    However, as the story gradually progressed, Lee Byungsoo found himself having to change his mind.

    <i>Is this the Jinhee'' I know?''</i>

    Certainly, the content and the characters were familiar. But strangely, it felt unfamiliar.

    And that unfamiliarity reached its peak when Kiwoon made his appearance.

    Ms. Jinhee.

    Do you know me?

    Yes. For quite a long time.

    !''

    Lee Byungsoo''s eyes widened as he sat cross-legged, tilting his head.

 Chapter 90:

    Chapter 90:

    In a field of blooming can flowers swayed by the wind.

    The sight of the lovely yellow flowers dancing was unrealistically beautiful.

    It was Kiwoon who had brought Jinhee here, following her wish to see a can field.

    With their backs to the camera, a gentle and beautiful melody ys. However, asionally, the dissonant notes of a string instrument grate on the ears.

    It''s beautiful.

    Yooil''sment is met with silence from Jinhee. Her gaze fixated on a lone white butterfly, Jinhee finally speaks.

    From now on, don''te looking for me.

    With that line, the irritating music suddenly stops.

    Silence, where not even the slightest noise can be heard.

    In that quiet, Kiwoon''s eyes tremble slightly.

    After that, Kiwoon is absent from Jinhee''s life for a while. And after his departure, Jinhee starts experiencing odd urrences. Socks start disappearing one by one, and chopsticks vanish every time she tries to eat.

    Jinhee''s daily life begins to creak and sway like a table with one short leg.

    Kiwoon reappears when Jinhee is barely managing her lopsided life.

    You''ve been waiting for me.

    <i>!''</i>

    At that moment, Lee Byungsoo takes a quiet breath.

    The camera captures Kiwoon''s face in a close-up, shaking slightly. More unsteady than the camera are Kiwoon''s eyes and the emotions swirling within them.

    Joy peeking through the unease. And affection, swelling up like a balloon. All of it seems visible through Yooil''s pupils.

    "Haha."

    A smallugh escapes Lee Byungsoo''s lips.

    An unbelievable performance.

    From that moment, Lee Byungsoo gives up analyzing and just watches.

    After the night when Jinhee and Kiwoon fully share their hearts, Kiwoon truly disappears.

    Following his disappearance, Jinhee, whopulsively cleans the house, reads a novel she wrote. And she is shocked.

    [She met a man. That man rejoiced in everything he did with a woman, loved everything.

    That man''s name was Kiwoon.]

    For quite a long time.

    Because I have been waiting for you.

    Every word Kiwoon said, and every word she herself said, was in the novel she wrote long ago.

    The novel ends with Kiwoon and Jinhee meeting in front of a mansionte at night.

    You''ve been waiting for me.

    Remembering all that Kiwoon said to her, Jinhee loses her sanity.

    From the moment she realizes she loved a fictional character, Jinhee begins to crumble.

    Always wearing neat and elegant clothes, Jinhee chooses a bright fuchsia dress she had only kept in her closet.

    Jinhee Miss?

    Those around her are surprised by her appearance.

    You look different today.

    To them, Jinhee only offers a smile. A bright and pure smile, yet fragile as if it could shatter any moment.

    Jinhee where are you

    One day.

    Her husband, oblivious to everything, calls out to Jinhee in a voice that seems on the verge of breaking.

    Jinhee, about to leave the house without a word, stops in her tracks. Then she quickly approaches her husband.

    After looking down at her husband for a moment, Jinhee removes all the tubes connected to his body.

    Her husband looks up at Jinhee with incredulous eyes. But Jinhee looks down at her gasping husband with indifferent eyes.

    And at the climax of the movie, Jinhee sets the house on fire.

    She lies on the bed, tightly clutching the white handkerchief Kiwoon gave her. The fire starts to spread.

    Then, Kiwoon, who has been absent throughout, reappears.

    Kiwoon, with a pale face, runs towards the burning mansion, seen from a bird''s eye view angle as he approaches the fiery estate.

    <i>!''</i>

    Gasps could be heard throughout the audience.

    Those who thought Kiwoon was a figment of Jinhee''s imagination were once again thrown into confusion.

    And then the movie shifts back to the past.

    To a time before he was Kiwoon''.

    A young boy enters the mansion on the request of the vacationing housekeeper, warned to be careful not to break any of the expensive items. While cleaning diligently in his worn clothes, the boy discovers a small notebook hidden under the bed.

    He hadn''t intended to read it from the start. The first page fell out as he picked up the notebook to put it away.

    [There was a child who cried all night, not knowing it had been born safely.]

    It was a novel.

    As if enchanted, the boy began to read the novel. He swiftly went through a chapter, but due to the pressing cleaning schedule, he had no choice but to put the notebook back under the bed.

    The boy continued to visit the mansion for cleaning.

    Every time he came to clean, the homeowners were at the hospital, allowing him to secretly read the novel.

    Chapter by chapter, sparingly reading the novel, the boy became a young man, and his posture and voice changed from before.

    Over the months of reading the novel during his cleaning visits, the young man reached thest chapter. However, the novel had no ending.

    It can''t be.

    Initially feeling empty, the young man began to feel anger.

    He had already transformed himself into the likeness of Kiwoon from the novel. He could no longer even recall his former self.

    You don''t need toe here anymore. Thedy of the house decided not to use a housekeeper anymore You found a new job, didn''t you?

    The face of Kiwoon, shocked and staring straight ahead, gradually oveps with Kiwoon of the present.

    Jinhee! Miss Jinhee!

    Kiwoon embraces Jinhee, tears staining his face.

    But Jinhee''s breath had already ceased.

    The mansion, burnt to ck. The close-up of the burnt remains of the white handkerchief Jinhee held.

    With the peculiar yet serene music that yed in the beginning, the movie ended.

    ''

    Lee Byungsoo sat still, silently watching the credits roll up.

    Shot by shot. The rhythm of editing and sound. The flow of dialogue and modtion of intensity.

    In his decades of being a critic, he had seldom fully enjoyed'' a film.

    The habit of meticulously examining every element of a movie had be as natural as breathing.

    However, some movies require no analysis. A good movie naturally makes one feel all of its aspects.

    <i>I was wrong.''</i>

    This movie was a powerful punch, a gift to him who had expected disappointment.

    That evening.

    A new review was posted in the critic''s section for Jinhee''.

    9.0

    Finally found it. The Kiwoon that would break me down.

    Wow, 9 points ;;

    Crazy

    Why''s this guy''s rating so generous all of a sudden?

    It''s not guy'', it''s grandpa''..

    Has this man ever given a 9 rating before?

    At least not for a Korean movie

    Saw this review and booked my tickets right away.

    The one-liner by Lee Byungsoo became quite a topic in themunity.

    Lee Byungsoo, who had never given a movie a perfect score of 10, made 9 points practically the highest praise.

    I''m not usually a fan of Director Won Heesu

    [Curious about Jinhee since the reviews are good]

    22

    Didn''t even consider Seo Hyunju and Han Yooil, but the trailer looked interesting..

    This might be Won Heesu''s magnum opus

    Anyone watch the original Jinhee?

    []

    Me

    How was it?

    A masterpiece

    Not for nothing is Kim Soobong still called a legend

    Check out the full video on O-Tube

    Wow, thx thx, gotta go watch

    But would it still be interesting after watching this?

    The overall content is the same but the historical settings and details have changed

    I''m going to watch it before going!

    I was having a movie slump recently

    [Watching the trailer for Jinhee cleared my mind.. I''m going to a morning show]

    Really looking forward to it

    From the premiere reviews, the direction and actors'' performances are getting a lot of praise

    While movie buffs were wrapped up in anticipation for the film, Han Yooil''s fan club, Yooilmuui, was abuzz with a photoshoot released a few hours ago.

    The photoshoot was a feature of Han Yooil and Seo Hyunju in the famous fashion magazine Piffs October issue.

    <i>Amazing.''</i>

    Lee Hyejin looked at the photoshoot with a dazed gaze.

    A studio set up like a forest.

    Against this backdrop, Han Yooil and Seo Hyunju were seen sitting back-to-back or looking intently at each other with inscrutable faces.

    Along with the couple''s photoshoot, individual shots of the actors were also released. There were three individual shots of Yooil, but especially the one where he was holding a flower, lookingnguidly at the camera with azy smile, made the heart flutter more with each nce.

    <i>Should I even be looking at this?''</i>

    That dawn, unable to sleep after seeing the photoshoot, Lee Hyejin started a storm of uploads on BlueChat.

    * * *

    [@jinnnny (photo) (photo) (photo) This is paradise]

    [@feyh_herev OMG, that second photo]

    [@yuulll_33 Could Han Yooil actually be a fairy?]

    Reading the BlueChat posts brought up by Brion, Yooil shook his head.

    <i>That''s enough.''</i>

    The translucent window vanished instantly.

    Yooil reminisced about the photoshoot.

    The photoshoot with Seo Hyunju went smoothly.

    The problem was the individual shots.

    So the vibe is like I''m a spirit of the forest taking a brief rest!'' Get it?

    Of course, it was not something one could easily grasp.

    Yooil tried his best to give anguid expression and the photographer shouted excitedly in response.

    Yes, that''s it!

    Oh, it''s so good right now!

    Yeah, that''s the one!!

    Regardless, it was a relief that the results weren''t bad.

    While musing over the photoshoot, Yooil snapped out of it when he heard someone calling him.

    "Pleasee this way."

    Yooil followed the staff member, moving forward.

    Today was the official release day of Jinhee'', as well as the day for the stage greeting.

    * * *

    <i>It definitely didn''t feel like this before.''</i>

    Yooil looked around the audience seats with an unfamiliar feeling.

    "Kyaa!"

    "Sis!"

    "Han Yooil is so handsome~!"

    The excited atmosphere and the flushed faces of the people looking at him. Among them, individuals with bouquets and cameras were also noticeable.

    Each time Han Yooil and Seo Hyunju spoke, sparkling gazes turned towards them. Each statement was followed by tremendous response.

    Yooil recalled the times he went to stage greetings with Director Yoo Jaeho. He distinctly remembered that the atmosphere was different, more subdued.

    Caught up in delivering his thoughts and greeting the audience, the allocated time for the stage greeting soon came to an end.

    "Now, the actors have prepared a special gift for you~!"

    The gift'' referred to posters and special postcards with the autographs of the actors and the director.

    After handing out the gifts to the selected audience members and returning to the stage, Yooil was caught by an earnest gaze.

    "Th-this please take this."

    A woman with a short perm sitting in the aisle cautiously handed something to Yooil.

    It was a card reading I love Han Yooil'' and a pink headband with folded ears.

    "Ack! Actor, this too!"

    "Over here!"

    Soon, Yooil returned to the stageden with gifts, blinking in bewilderment. Most of them were bouquets and uniquely shaped headbands.

    <i>They gave it to me to wear, right?''</i>

    That''s correct. The headband appears to be one of the characters from EBC children''s show, Dangdangkong''

    As Yooil put on the pink headband, cheers erupted here and there.

    <i>Is this right?''</i>

    Seeing Yooil tilting his head in confusion, Director Won Heesuughed heartily and said,

    "It''s like you were born to wear that!"

    Laughter also burst from the audience seats.

    The convivial atmosphere continued till the end. Right before thest group photo, Seo Hyunju and Won Heesu also wore crown headbands and hats with ears, given by fans in the front rows.

    "Actors, onest word before we finish?"

    At the host''s question, Yooil slowly met the eyes of the seated audience.

    Those who locked eyes with him at this moment, and even those sitting in numerous theaters at this very moment, would be watching the movie he starred in and engaging in discussions.

    "Jinhee'' has been one of my favorite works for a long time. It was truly an honor to be a part of this work as the character Kiwoon. I hope you all enjoy the movie. Thank you."

    After sinctly concluding his final remarks, Yooil slowly surveyed the people onest time before stepping away.

    <i>I hope everyone enjoyed it.''</i>

    * * *

    And Jinhee'' attracted 120,000 viewers on its opening day, securing the 2nd ce in the box office.

    The beginning of the Jinhee Syndrome'' hadmenced.

 Chapter 91:

    Chapter 91:

    Jinhee'', starting as the 2nd in the box office, gradually increased its audience through word of mouth. As the movie progressed smoothly, Han Yooil''s stage greetings also gained poprity.

    It all began with the stage greeting on the opening day.

    For that particr stage greeting, HM had gone through intense ticketing. And on that first stage greeting, HM managed to secure a seat in the aisle.

    Stage greetings typicallyst for about 10 minutes, 20 at most. Delivering a gift in that short span of time wasn''t an easy task. That''s why HM was fully prepared.

    "Now, let''s wee Director Won Heesu, actors Seo Hyunju, and Han Yooil~"

    However, the moment the stage greeting began.

    Precisely when Han Yooil appeared in front of the stage, all the scenarios HM had meticulously simted fell apart.

    It wasn''t just because he was handsome.

    Though his handsomeness was already known there was something enigmatic.

    HM knew his image had changed after watching the trailers. It wasn''t just a mature vibe.

    <i>Ugh, what the atmosphere''</i>

    While dazedly admiring Yooil''s face, HM barely gathered her thoughts when the gift raffle began.

    <i>This isn''t the time for this.''</i>

    Sweat formed on HM''s hand holding the headband and bouquet.

    Timing was crucial. And HM had the experience from years of idol fandom.

    But the moment her eyes met Han Yooil''s up close.

    Nothing else remained in HM''s mind.

    Th-this please take this.

    A frail voice, almost unbelievable to be her own, escaped her lips.

    <i>It''s over.''</i>

    However, instead of passing by, Han Yooil gave a gentle smile.

    "Ah, thank you."

    He then took the headband from HM''s hand.

    And even put it on himself.

    HM, busy taking photos of Han Yooil with her camera, thought,

    <i>From now on, I''ll grab whateveres my way.''</i>

    And that day, HM uploaded a video to her Han Yooil fan ount.

    * * *

    [@HYul_0402 Han Yooil, Stage Greeting 1014 (Video)]

    [@wgset!@# OMG]

    [@yu_uull Sir.. are you a genius.. how did you think of putting the Dangdangkong headband on Yool?]

    <i>So it was you.''</i>

    Yooil, viewing the SNS reactions through the window Brion brought up, quickly turned his gaze away as the video of himself wearing the headband started moving.

    Having done several stage greetings and interacted with fans face-to-face, he was gradually getting ustomed to it. Above all, he felt immense gratitude.

    Though watching himself making heart signs was still a challenge.

    Meanwhile, Jinhee'' had already passed its 3rd week since release.

    Jinhee'' breaks even

    Jinhee'' surpasses 2 million viewers on its 10th day of release

    Won Heesu''s new film "Jinhee" reached 2.5 million viewers just 14 days after its release.

    "Jinhee" shows slow but steady progress Won Heesu''s bold move paid off

    Despite being in a genre considered disadvantageous for box office sess, with its deep melodramatic essence and period drama elements, "Jinhee" managed to be a hit through word-of-mouth.

    [Today''s Movie] In-depth review of "Jinhee"! This one video is all you need

    [Kim Doyoon''s Film Note] Jinhee and Kiwoon, and Bleaching'' Pygmalion

    Channels on YouTube that focused on analyzing "Jinhee" also began to gain significant poprity. The inte has been flooded with memes rted to the movie.

    Whenever examse around My head feels as if it has been bleached

    This oue was beyond the expectations of the productionpany, O-Film.

    * * *

    "Yes, thank you. I will keep that in mind."

    Jang Jaehyun ended the call with a faint smile.

    Just a few days ago, "Jinhee" won the Film Critics Association Award organized by the Korea Film Critics Association. This implied that "Jinhee" might be chosen to represent Korea at the American Academy Awards.

    <i>Of course, winning there would be difficult.''</i>

    While monitoring online, Jang Jaehyun slowly nodded and leaned back in his chair.

    He too hadn''t anticipated such a positive oue.

    It wouldn''t be an overstatement to say that most of it was due to Han Yooil. Not only was he a talented actor, but his eye for choosing projects was exceptional.

    <i>However''</i>

    The one regret was that Han Yooil never seemed to take a break.

    Despite being swamped with promotional schedules and school assignments, Han Yooil did not let go of his desire for new projects.

    "May Ie in, CEO?"

    Jang Jaehyun looked at Han Yooil, who had just entered the office, with slightly dissatisfied eyes.

    * * *

    "Are you satisfied?"

    "Yes, very."

    Yooil replied with a grin. Watching him intently, Jang Jaehyun rxed his expression and smiled faintly.

    "So, have you made up your mind?"

    At CEO Jang''s question, Yooil nodded.

    Having meticulously read through the scripts he received a few days ago, Yooil had already made his decision.

    "I found a project that I want to do."

    Yooil then took out the script he had brought.

    Seeing the cover of the script handed by Yooil, Jang Jaehyun raised his eyebrows in surprise.

    <i>I didn''t expect him to choose this one.''</i>

    Among the scripts that were sent to Yooil, the most significant portion wasposed of romanticedy drama scripts.

    "Do you have a particr reason for choosing this script? If you''re worried about being typecast or anything of that sort-"

    "That''s not it at all."

    Yooil replied with a faint smile.

    "Jinhee" was in the melodrama genre, but it was far from the light-hearted and cute romance movies.

    "I never worried about that in the first ce."

    "I just found it the most interesting."

    An original drama, not based on a novel or webtoon, with a fresh theme and a lengthy shooting period.

    Yooil looked down at the script he had chosen.

    "Shadows of Faith"

    Among the scripts based on the productionpany''s own IP, this was the most suitable one not derived from a novel, webtoon, or existing film.

    "Shadows of Faith" was a story of people struggling to uncover the truth in a secretive vige.

    It was a series that had alreadypleted a sessful Season 1 two years ago, and due to its poprity, Season 2 had been confirmed for production.

    "Shadows of Faith" is a seasonal drama scheduled to be released in the second half of next year on Newblix. Written by Yoo Jimyeong, and expected to be directed by Go Jinho.

    The second season was expected to introduce a host of new characters and settings different from Season 1.

    After a moment of thought, CEO Jang nodded.

    "Good. Since it''s a Newblix original production, there won''t be issues with the production budget. The director and writers are alsopetent."

    Just as Jang Jaehyun was about to arrange a meeting with the director, Yooil cautiously spoke up.

    "But have Suna and YoungHyun seen this script yet?"

    "Not yet."

    Jang Jaehyun looked at Yooil and burst into a knowing smile.

    "You don''t need to look so worried. I was nning to show it to them anyway."

    Yooil''s face brightened at that.

    "That''s a relief. While reading the script, I thought a lot about the two of them."

    "Is that so?"

    "Yes. We''ve worked together before, so I think it would be great if we could act together again."

    CEO Jang''s face grew thoughtful upon hearing that.

    Even after reading the script of "Shadows of Faith," he couldn''t easily think of suitable roles for them.

    "I''m curious about the roles."

    "Well I think they would be interested in the characters if they read the script."

    Since Han Yooil didn''t give a straight answer, Jang Jaehyun chuckled lightly.

    "You''re beating around the bush."

    He looked at Yooil leisurely but his mind was working quickly.

    The timing wasn''t bad in reality.

    Both Kim Suna and Park YoungHyun had just finished shooting dramas and films and were looking for new projects.

    Kim Suna was a candidate for the lead role in a slice-of-life youth drama featuring women in their 20s, and Park YoungHyun had just smoothly finished an important supporting role in a film. Both were receiving favorable reviews.

    Having organized his thoughts, Jang Jaehyun looked directly at Yooil.

    "Yooil. Come to think of it, I still haven''t heard which role you want."

    "The role I want to y is,"

    There were various main characters in "Shadows of Faith."

    And among them, the character Yooil had in mind was

    "Suhyun."

    "Suhyun?"

    Jang Jaehyun raised an eyebrow.

    "Honestly, that''s unexpected."

    "I thought you might say that."

    Han Yooil had an expression that suggested he had anticipated this.

    Jang Jaehyun picked up the proposal once again.

    Suhyun'' was a character born in the secretive and gloomy vige that serves as the backdrop for the drama, returning to the vige that was both his trauma and wound, to uncover its secrets.

    Among the main characters, Suhyun was the one with the least significance.

    Other actors would likely prioritize characters with rtively more importance.

    However, Jang Jaehyun already had some understanding of the kind of actor Han Yooil was.

    "I really wanted to give this character a try."

    At that moment, when he saw the actor looking at him with clear eyes, Jang Jaehyun couldn''t help but nod.

    "Alright. Ill contact the director through the productionpany before today ends."

    After Han Yooil left, Jang Jaehyun spent a long time idly spinning his fountain pen in his hand.

    Always giving his best and showing passion, yet not following a predictable pattern.

    Jang Jaehyun was fond of that subtle dissonance.

    <i>An interesting actor.''</i>

    His brief contemtion ended.

    The CEO of JJ Entertainment, with a faint smile, slowly picked up the receiver.

    * * *

    A few dayster, in an office in Sangam.

    Director Go Jinho''s studio.

    As Yooil rang the bell, an assistant director soon opened the door.

    "Actor! Thank you foring~"

    The assistant director greeted Yooil with a bright smile. Inside, the cozy-looking Director Go Jinho, who was sitting at a desk full of monitors, stood up briskly.

    "Oh, wee! Yooil~"

    "Hello, Director."

    Director Go Jinho, stroking his curly hair, offered Yooil a seat. As soon as Yooil sat down, he quickly continued the conversation.

    "I was so surprised to hear that you would join our project, Yooil. I recently enjoyed your work so much~ Especially this movie Wow! The day I watched Jinhee, I couldn''t do anything else all day. Really!"

    "Its an honor for me."

    Their conversation flowed smoothly after that.

    The atmosphere shifted when Director Go Jinho adjusted his posture.

    "But I have a question."

    His eyes, which had been softly smiling, sharpened.

    "Why did it have to be Suhyun''?"

    The moment Yooil heard that question, he instinctively knew.

    The answer to this question would change the direction of the casting.

    Looking at Director Go Jinho, Han Yooil slowly opened his mouth.

 Chapter 92:

    Chapter 92:

    <i>I''m curious. What answer will you give?</i>

    Director Go Jinho fixed his gaze intently on Han Yooil''s face.

    His im of being Yooil''s fan was sincere. Director Go had been following Yooil''s work for quite a long time.

    That''s why he wanted to know more.

    Why he had chosen Suhyun, of all characters.

    His face a mix of concern and expectation, he looked at Yooil.

    Yooil gazed at the translucent window that appeared before him, recalling the character description written in the proposal.

    [Lee Suhyun, 27 years old.

    Around the age of five, his parents came to the small ind of Haseokdo for some reason. From that moment, his life began to crumble silently. Suhyun was a sturdy worker on the ind until he escaped at the age of 18. He saw the most and lost the most.]

    It wasn''t an exceptionally detailed introduction for a main character.

    But as he read the script, Yooil realized.

    There''s definitely something hidden about this character.

    Yooil slowly began to speak.

    "First of all, while reading the script, I thought that the character Suhyun,pared to the others, wasplex."

    "Complex?"

    Director Go Jinho cocked his head.

    "Well Sure, if you sayplex, he''splex. But wouldn''t you say the other characters are simr in that aspect~?"

    The assistant director exchanged a nce with the director, chiming in.

    "It''s funny asking this since we wrote the script but I''m curious. What about Suhyun'' stood out to youpared to the other main characters?"

    It was a daunting question, one that would have intimidated most actors.

    But Han Yooil still met his gaze with clear eyes.

    "While reading, I thought. The most contradictory character in Shadows of Faith'' is Suhyun."

    "Hmm."

    "And that contradictiones from loss''."

    Yooil continued slowly.

    "Suhyun had to spend his childhood in a closed space, an abnormal pseudo-religious group. Without the chance to judge right from wrong, he believed everything they said as the truth."

    Director Go Jinho, listening with an unreadable expression, slowly started to nod.

    "When he escaped the ind at the brink of adulthood, he must have lived a life at rock bottom."

    "Wait a minute."

    Director Go''s eyes narrowed.

    "Those words weren''t in the proposal, were they?"

    "Ah, right."

    Yooil passed the proposal, neatly tucked inside the file, to the director.

    "It wasn''t in the proposal, but I added a bit more as I read through the script."

    "!"

    The assistant director, reading the densely written proposal handed over by Han Yooil, was slightly shocked.

    <i>What is this?''</i>

    It was the first time he had seen an actor, especially one not yet confirmed for casting, write something like this.

    <i>He analyzed it to this extent?''</i>

    But the surprises didn''t end there.

    "Well since we''re short on time, shall we start the reading~?"

    "Sure."

    And in that moment, the faint smile on Yooil''s face disappeared.

    He, who had been looking into the distance with a bored expression, now spoke with a dry face.

    "Ah, introduction. My name is Lee Suhyun."

    It wasn''t just the smile that had been stripped away.

    Ease, flexibility, consideration for others

    In other words, his sociability was stripped away.

    "Right, didnt I say? Both my mom and dad are in a cult. Probably still are."

    Han Yooil spoke, slightly opening his mouth and nodding.

    The assistant director closely watched Yooil''s performance.

    The expression didn''t change, but the pace of the dialogue quickened slightly.

    Yooil''s Suhyun'' had a calm and dry face.

    But why? Somehow, he felt a threatening vibeing from Yooil.

    The assistant director brushed the goosebumps on his forearm.

    "I''m not sure if they''re still alive."

    The assistant director saw it. The slight upward curl of his lips.

    <i>!''</i>

    He quickly turned his gaze back to the proposal, filled with Yooil''s notes.

    [The defense mechanism due to trauma is serious, with a high level of vignce and sensitivity. Covering up these characteristics with a rough and dry attitude. Standing on the boundary between good and evil, between helper and viin]

    The assistant director, reading the small letters filling the margins as if spellbound, was brought back to reality by Director Go Jinho''s words.

    "Alright, let''s also try Scene 34."

    Yooil quickly flipped through the script, propped his chin, and assumed a slightly nted posture.

    His gaze remained fixed in space.

    <i>He hasn''t even read the script properly yet, has he?''</i>

    Contrary to the assistant director''s concern, Yooil immediately began to speak.

    "Ah, what is this"

    Yooil scratched his forehead with his fingertips.

    It was so natural that the assistant director btedly realized it was a part of the dialogue.

    "I don''t know what this is all about."

    A trace of emotion began to seep into his otherwise calm tone.

    "Do you think I''m some sort of thug that can''t be trusted, is that it?"

    It was not an overtly threatening tone. Rather, it wasposed.

    But

    <i>It''s frightening.''</i>

    The assistant director involuntarily leaned back.

    It was an unconscious reaction.

    <i>Has he memorized the entire script already?''</i>

    No way.

    Before long, Director Go Jinho had readjusted his posture and was looking at Yooil.

    His eyes sparkled with a hint of fascination as he watched Han Yooil.

    After Han Yooil had left, the assistant director sneakily nced at Director Go Jinho.

    "What do you think, Director?"

    It was a questionden with many implications.

    Director Go Jinho had been hunched over all this time. As the assistant director approached him with a worried look, Director Go suddenly moved.

    "Haha!"

    Leaving the assistant director clutching his heart in surprise, Director Goughed with a face as content as a well-fed roon.

    "Seeing it in person, I like it even more."

    Initially, Director Go Jinho had his doubts when he first heard that Yooil wanted to y Suhyun.

    However, after witnessing it firsthand, he couldn''t help but be convinced.

    The assistant director felt simrly, though his thoughts were heading in a slightly different direction.

    It''s not without reason that the entertainment industry is rife with gossip. Once they gain some poprity, it''s not umon for neers to forget their early days and strut around with arrogance.

    <i>Han Yooil turns out the talk about his good nature was true.''</i>

    The assistant director handed Director Go Jinho a cup of coffee with a much more rxed expression.

    Somehow, he had a good feeling about this drama.

    * * *

    On his way home after the meeting, Yooil received a call.

    Yooil hyung!

    Kim Harang eximed cheerfully as he called out of the blue.

    I''ve moved out!

    "Moved out?"

    Kim Harang exined that he had finally left the dorm life behind and had just finished decorating his new ce.

    Anyway, hyung,e over!

    "Sure. Let me know when you''re free."

    I''m free today too!

    !''

    And so, Yooil found himself unexpectedly attending a housewarming party. In Kim Harang''s minimally decorated home, he met an unexpected person.

    <i>Huh?''</i>

    "Why are you here?"

    Park Younghyun, with a piece of chocte-covered cookie in his mouth, showed an awkward smile.

    <i>Were they close?''</i>

    He had never heard of them having any connection.

    Kim Harang leaned in close to Yooil and said,

    "We just shot a variety show together!"

    "?"

    They appeared together in episode 72 of "Contemporary Gourmet" aired on the OTube channel.

    <i>Those two?''</i>

    "Contemporary Gourmet" is known for its unique guest pairing, featuring two guests with no apparent connection

    Seeing Han Yooil''s bewildered face, Harang''s round eyes narrowed to half-circles.

    "What! You didn''t watch it~!"

    <i>''</i>

    Han Yooil started to make excuses as best as he could.

    "It''s unfair~ I even watch dramas to see who''s in them~"

    Of course, it didn''t quite have the intended effect.

    After teasing Yooil for a while, Harang dashed off like a bullet when the doorbell rang.

    Kim Harang proudly presented a bag of food ordered from the ck Sea members'' favorite restaurant. Park Younghyun, inspecting the delivered food, asked seriously.

    "Can I eat this?"

    "Why not?"

    "Well, I''m on a diet right now, so"

    Park Younghyun muttered under his breath, his gaze fixed on the chicken and tteokbokki, clearly wrestling with his inner conflict.

    "Ah, just exercise hard tomorrow."

    "You don''t need to diet, do you?"

    Park Younghyun, scanning Kim Harang''s lean figure, muttered dejectedly.

    It seemed that even during the "Contemporary Gourmet," Harang had struggled with eating only a little without it being noticeable.

    The half-and-half chicken and tteokbokki ordered by Kim Harang were delicious. Worthy of being called a hot spot.

    The silence between them, quietly eating, was broken by Kim Harang.

    "Isn''t it a bit boring?"

    "No."

    "Not boring, why?"

    Park Younghyun and Han Yooil shook their heads simultaneously.

    It seemed Harang wasn''t ustomed to eating in silence.

    "How about we do a Shasta live?"

    At that suggestion, Park Younghyun leaped up on the spot. But even that couldn''t sway Kim Harang''s determination.

    "Younghyun hyung! You have to try these things to get better~"

    "It won''t be fun."

    "Just think of it as a mukbang, a mukbang!"

    And Kim Harang picked up his phone.

    * * *

    Meanwhile.

    Kim Harang''s fans, who were scouring forte-night content, saw their Shasta notifications light up unexpectedly and rushed to join the live broadcast.

    The live chat was soon flooded with messages from shocked viewers.

    ?????

    Huh?

    What am I watching right now?

    omg

    Whoa

    It was abination they couldn''t believe even with their own eyes.

    The hyungs came for the housewarming!

    Hello, I''m Han Yooil.

    Park Younghyun.

    And their live broadcast ended abruptly just as it started.

    But is this even working?

    Yes!

    Yooil, holding the phone close to his face and tilting his head in confusion, identally turned off the broadcast.

    ?!?!?!

    No,e back, guys

    It was the birth of a meme that would circte on BlueChat for a while.

    The broadcast resumed after a minute.

    There they were: Han Yooil,ughing awkwardly, Park Younghyun with a tense face, and Kim Harang in the middle, looking cheerfully at the camera.

    The three, each with a distinct style, seemed to oddlyplement each other when together. Initially shocked, the viewers gradually got used to the sight, and the chat began to fill with variousments.

    Younghyun hyung keeps saying he has to diet and won''t eat~

    I gain weight easily, so

    Park Younghyun''s face brightened slightly as he read thements.

    What? That''s ridiculous.

    Younghyun is so skinny

    What''s skinny!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    The impromptu live stream disguised as a mukbang by the three continued for about thirty minutes.

    "Ah, they''re asking you to dip the chicken in the tteokbokki sauce?"

    Surprisingly, the best at readingments was Han Yooil. He picked up a piece of chicken breast, dipped it in the tteokbokki sauce, and showed it to the camera.

    Wow

    Just a bite please

    That looks really delicious

    Crunch, crunch.

    The chicken with a bit of red sauce made a delicious sound as it was eaten.

    "Hey, this is actually good?"

    "Aha! This was a greatbination for our members~!"

    Is this really a mukbang lol

    Yooil is doing ASMR

    Why does Harang look disappointed?

    "Why wasn''t I called?"

    Just ordered chicken after watching this

    The surprise live broadcast was a hot topic during and after the show. Throughout the night, the trio''s live stream was trending on BlueChat.

    The recorded version and screenshots of the live broadcast also dominated themunity''s hot posts.

    "No guys"

    [(Screenshot of the live broadcast)

    When did they be so close???]

    Didn''t Harang and Yool always get along?

    right

    Park Younghyun is really unexpected

    Maybe they became close after shooting together..

    What''s with this social butterfly

    As expected, our Kim Ddangddang..

    <i>(tl/n: Ddangdang  = Puppy)</i>

    It''s nice to see them all sofortable with each other

    I''m really moved

    [I missed the live stream because of work, I''m so regretful]

    Me too It''s the first time I''m moved to tears watching a recorded version

    Doesn''t Harang seem unusually happy?

    Among the brothers, he''s like an excited Maltese

    Come to think of it, all three have a puppy look

    They''re like Maltese, Samoyed, Husky

    Perfect match

    "Don''t watch this"

    [(Screenshot of the live broadcast)

    Ordered chicken at night;;]

    This is so true, I did too

    This broadcast is really dangerous;;

    * * *

    The day after the live broadcast unexpectedly gained poprity, Yooil, who was exercising, picked up his ringing phone.

    <i>Hmm?</i>

    It was a call from Director Go Jinho.

 Chapter 93:

    Chapter 93:

    "It''s nothing serious, just that the writer wants to see your face in person before the shooting, so don''t feel pressured," said Director Go Jinho, calling to schedule a second meeting.

    This meeting, like the first one, took ce in the studio, and this time, many more people were waiting for Yooil than at the first meeting. Director Go Jinho, writer Yoo Jimyeong, and two assistant writers were present.

    "No need for a reading this time. We''ve already seen everything on video," said writer Yoo Jimyeong with a slight smile and a shake of her head.

    "Originally, when I sent the script to Yooil, I thought it would be great if he could y the role of Daeoh, a timid but kind-hearted youngest reporter with a romantic line with senior reporter Eunyoung and a clear growth narrative as one of the main characters."

    "But Suhyun? I never even considered that."

    "Right, right."

    "But after seeing the video, I couldn''t argue against it."

    Writer Yoo Jimyeong''s yful face sparkled with sharpness.

    "Yooil you were really good. Better than I had imagined."

    "!"

    "Today, I really just wanted to see your face."

    Then, writer Yoo Jimyeong took out a proposal from among the papers on the table, one that Yooil had filled with numerous notes.

    "To be honest, it felt like I was hit on the head when I saw this."

    Writer Yoo Jimyeong spoke earnestly, and the assistant writers next to him nodded in agreement.

    <i>I didn''t expect such a reaction.''</i>

    mbarrassment appeared on Yooil''s face.

    "So, after discussing with the director there might be more script revisions before the shooting. I thought you should know."

    "Revisions? Are there going to be significant changes?"

    "Yes. A bit."

    Writer Yoo Jimyeong''s monolid eyes stared straight at Yooil.

    "The part of Suhyun'' that you are ying is likely to get bigger. A lot bigger."

    "!"

    At that point, with a month left before the crank-in of "Shadows of Faith," the final casting was concluded with Yooil''s casting confirmed.

    * * *

    A weekter, Han Yooil was at thepany. The employees of JJ Entertainment were seated around him with serious faces, and among them was Director Jang Jaeyi, looking pleased as she gazed at Yooil.

    <i>''</i>

    Just then, Yooil had heard something unexpected.

    "An offline fan meeting?"

    When Yooil asked back with a slightly surprised look, Director Jang Jaeyi spoke up.

    "Yes. It''s been dyed more than we expected, right?"

    A fan meeting.

    The staff in charge of nning started exining one by one, taking out the nning documents.

    "We''re adjusting the schedule between the end of this year and early next year. We''re expecting about 1,000 attendees, and we''re in contact with Yeonseo University''s Grand Theater and Miri Art Center."

    <i>They''ve prepared a lot.''</i>

    The scale was bigger than Yooil had imagined. Reading through the event nning documents he had received, Yooil furrowed his brow for a moment.

    <i>But why is there a mukbang in the event content?''</i>

    It seemed that Director Jang Jaeyi was deeply impressed by Yooil''s live broadcast.

    "Feel free to mention any additional events or ideas you want to include, Yooil."

    With that, the simple meeting concluded.

    However, Han Yooil had his own concerns.

    <i>Will that many people reallye?''</i>

    Online ess is easy, but offline is different. People with their own busy lives have to dedicate an entire day just to see him.

    <i>I better prepare properly.''</i>

    With that firm resolve, Yooil headed to the basement. Soon, the practice room surrounded by mirrors appeared. It had been quite some time since hest visited the practice room after starting background acting.

    Min Woojin had gone out for a while, leaving him some free time.

    Yooil thought while doing some simple stretching.

    <i>Maybe I should try background acting.''</i>

    I wouldn''t rmend it right now, Yooil.

    As soon as Brion finished speaking, the door to the practice room swung open.

    <i>That''s why you advised against it.''</i>

    Yooil turned his head. The person who entered the practice room was Kim Suna.

    After exchanging brief greetings, they sat side by side in the corner and drank canned coffee brought by a staff member.

    Kim Suna''s hair was much shorter than thest time he saw her. The straight hair that had covered her back was now neatly cut around her jawline, giving her a more mature vibe than the previous cute image.

    "Your hair suits you, senior."

    "Thank you. I cut it for this role."

    Kim Suna touched her hair and added.

    "You know, right? Eunyoung."

    Yooil nodded. Of course, he knew.

    The character he had thought of for Kim Suna while reading "Shadows of Faith" was precisely Eunyoung.''

    Kim Suna, tapping the can of coffee as if contemting, slowly opened her mouth.

    "I heard. You rmended me directly to the director."

    At her words, Yooil gave an embarrassed smile.

    * * *

    A week earlier, at the second meeting with writer Yoo Jimyeong and director Go Jinho.

    As the meeting was about to conclude, Director Go Jinho asked Yooil a question.

    "Just speakfortably. I''m just curious about your opinion, Yooil."

    His question was about other characters besides Suhyun, namely Daeoh and Eunyoung, and whether there were any suitable actors for those roles. Since the two actors who were almost confirmed had dropped out due to movie filming, they were in need of finding recements.

    Yooil readily gave the answer he had in mind.

    "Oh Kim Suna and Park Younghyun?"

    "Never really thought of those two~?"

    Director Go and writer Yoo Jimyeong exchanged meaningful nces.

    It wasn''t long before he realized that their exchange had a positive meaning. The very next day, he heard that Kim Suna and Park Younghyun had meetings with Director Go.

    And the subsequent events unfolded faster than he had anticipated.

    Shadows of Faith'' Season 2 Casting Confirmed Han Yooil, Park Younghyun, Kim Suna to Reunite?

    Shadows of Faith'' Season 2 Casting Complete Crank-in Scheduled for Late November

    Thanks to the sessfulpletion of Season 1, Shadows of Faith'' had a solid fan base, and the announcement of thepleted casting elicited a warm response.

    "Shadows of Faith" casting isplete

    [They''re entering filming soon, yeah]

    Wow, finally they''re shooting season 2

    I haven''t watched season 1, is it good?

    Yeah, it''s really good

    Watch season 1 before season 2 airs

    Wow, are the Saetbyeolz for real?

    Thebination of their acting skills is solid

    Awesome, I really enjoyed "Shadows of Faith" season 1

    I hope it doesn''t go off the rails

    The same director and writer, so it should be fine, right?

    Even though the season 1 main characters were not returning, the response was favorable. The direction and screeny of season 1 had received good reviews and were among the sessful series on Newblix, so there was more anticipation than worry overall.

    "I did mention it to the director, but I didn''t rmend you just because we''re from the samepany," Yooil told Kim Suna, who replied with a small smile.

    "I know."

    Her voice was barely audible as she added softly,

    "That makes me even more grateful."

    Kim Suna downed her can of Americano in one shot, squinted her eyes, and spoke.

    "I''ll just speak honestly. I was conflicted, but I just couldn''t figure out how to say it."

    Yooil looked at her, not understanding the context. She bit her lip before speaking.

    "I also want to be of help."

    "To me, senior?"

    Yooil''s eyes wavered.

    <i>Could it be because of that incident back then?''</i>

    It had been quite some time since Kim Suna transferred to another agency, so Yooil hadn''t thought she would still be dwelling on past events.

    Before Yooil could say anything, Kim Suna was quicker.

    "Yooil."

    "Yes?"

    "Your health it''s not good, is it?"

    It was not a question, but a statement filled with certainty. Yooil blinked in surprise, his face revealing his confusion.

    "The reason you haven''t beening to the practice roomtely is also because of that."

    "Eh?"

    "You don''t have to say it. I know you don''t want to make it obvious."

    "But I''m not"

    "Just make sure to keep it a secret from others, that''s all I ask."

    Kim Suna looked at Yooil earnestly.

    "Yooil you can survive this, right?"

    It seemed like a massive misunderstanding had urred.

    Nevertheless, that day Kim Suna promised not to tell anyone about it.

    That''s not a bad proposition.

    <i>I''m not sure.''</i>

    Yooil drank the rest of his canned coffee with aplicated mind.

    For now, preparing for the shooting was the priority.

    * * *

    Meanwhile, as Yooil was about to start filming for the first time for "Shadows of Faith," exciting news for Han Yooil''s fans hit the news portals.

    Blue Dragon Film Awards nominees announced The Mysterious Garden'' leads with nominations in 10 categories

    Han Yooil up for Best New Actor with The Last Diner'' and The Mysterious Garden'' Proving to be a Comet Neer''

    Han Yooil VS An Heeseong, both nominated for the Blue Dragon Best New Actor''

    Who will shine at the year-end Blue Dragon Film Awards?

    Han Yooil''s participation in two films garnered nominations in several categories, including Best Film, Best Screeny, and Best New Actor, totaling 10 nominations.

    This is crazy

    Wow, The Mysterious Garden'' nominated in the most categories

    The nominees this time are really strong

    Why was Jinhee left out??????

    Still many screenings left, probably postponed to next year

    About Han Yooil this time

    [Could he win Best New Actor?]

    Totally possible

    Among peers, his performance was probably the best, right?

    The nominees are strong, but he has a chance

    "Yeah, it''s possible~!"

    Min Woojin was looking at his phone with a pleased expression, having recently discovered the joy of monitoring.

    However, Woojin''s pleasure was short-lived as he stumbled upon an unexpected post.

    "What?"

    His expression soured in an instant.

    It was the recently re-publicized ShaStar ount of an actor who had gone private for a month.

    [@strong_sung77 This is Kang Hyesung. I apologize for the disappointment caused by recent unfortunate events. I have taken this time to reflect deeply and apologize to those around me. I will strive to be a more thoughtful and responsible actor in the future. I am sorry.]

    Oh, is he nning aeback?

    Nope, fallen star~

    Hyesung, I love you, waiting for you!!!!

    He''s a good actor, but even if he returns, I don''t think I can like him as before..

    "What are you looking at, bro?"

    Caught off guard by Han Yooil''s timely entrance, Woojin couldn''t hide his phone screen and froze.

    Woojin nced at Yooil, trying to gauge his reaction.

    "Yooil are you okay?"

    Woojin was visibly uneasy, but in reality, Han Yooil had no thoughts on the matter.

    He was too busy living day by day as an actor, not to mention that school hadn''t even finished yet. Whenever he didn''t have a schedule, catching up on piled-up online lectures was a challenge.

    Simply put, he didn''t have time to think about Kang Hyesung.

    <i>Though there are some regrettable aspects.''</i>

    * * *

    As time swiftly passed with both significant and minor events, the first filming day for "Shadows of Faith" arrived.

    While waiting for filming and getting his makeup touched up, Yooil heard unexpected news.

 Chapter 94:

    Chapter 94:

    The first shoot for "Shadows of Faith" begante in the evening. Yooil, who had been sitting in a makeshift waiting room, stood up to loosen his stiff body due to the long wait. That''s when he heard a knock.

    "Actor, are you ready!"

    The staff member who opened the door of the waiting room looked up at Yooil with surprised eyes.

    "Yes, I''m all ready."

    Yooil was dressed in a snug-fit charcoal short-sleeved functional T-shirt and blue sports shorts, revealing his sculpted, lean physique. His muscr arms were adorned withrge dragon and flower tattoos, though they were just makeup using tattoo stickers.

    The staff member, facing Yooil head-on, was momentarily unsure where to look.

    Although Yooil was a model of a well-mannered young man during the reading a few days ago, the Yooil in front of him now was entirely different in aura, with even the sharp earring in one ear perfectly suiting him.

    The staff managed to speak up.

    "You, uh, really suit this look, actor"

    "Really?" Yooil touched the earlobe where the earring was, feeling somewhat embarrassed. He was not used to wearing rings or bracelets, so it felt quite noticeable.

    Park Younghyun, upon seeing Yooil, let out a short exmation.

    "Wow."

    "Man, you look like a totally different person!"

    Then a middle-aged actor, who yed the main character in Season 1, Park Taeil,ughed heartily and patted Yooil''s shoulder.

    "Taeil. What would you do if your daughter brought home a son-inw like this?"

    Prompted by the Making Film director''s question, Park Taeil replied as if he had been waiting for it.

    "I''d sprinkle salt and chase him away!"

    Park Taeil''s response made the surrounding staff burst intoughter.

    Park Taeil, who had spent a long time as an unknown actor, hit the prime of his life four years ago with his appearance in the ten-million hit movie, "City of Night."

    In "Shadows of Faith," he yed the role of Kim Shin,'' a former police officer turned detective agency owner. Kim Shin, who coborated with rookie cops to raid a drug den in Season 1, was set to uncover the secrets of the closed-off ind of Haseokdo with young journalists in Season 2.

    Having reviewed Season 1 in preparation for this shoot, Yooil had meticulously observed Park Taeil''s acting on the screen.

    Park Taeil was an actor who preferred to go with the flow on set rather than calcting his performance. His manner of speaking had a unique ir when acting, which matched well with his sly character roles.

    Above all, he was a genuine person off the screen.

    "No kidding, when I said I''d be shooting with Yooil, my wife was so jealous, she''s about to go crazy~ She''s always watching Yooil''s videos! As for my parts, she just watches the highlights~"

    "Ah That''s an honor."

    "Ai, honor my foot If it''s okay, could we take a picture together? I want to send it to my wife."

    And with a yful glint in his eyes, Park Taeil raised his phone. He immediately sent the selfie he took with Yooil to his wife, looking quite proud.

    "He''s a total romantic."

    "Indeed."

    Yooil, hearing Park Younghyun and Kim Suna whispering, looked around.

    Most of the filming, including the first shoot, was nned to take ce on Ganghwado, chosen for its blend of ind atmosphere and essibility. It was said that CGI would be generously used where necessary.

    The actual shooting location indeed had an ind-like atmosphere.

    The art team must have put in a lot of effort.''

    "Let''s get ready for the shoot~ Please be on standby!"

    As the actual shooting time approached, the rxed atmosphere of the set changed in an instant.

    Kim Shin, along with journalists Eunyoung and Daeoh, receive a mysterious letter asking for help from someone on Haseokdo. As they realize there''s no way to reach the ind without a boat, Eunyoung and Daeoh are at a loss, pacing back and forth. That''s when Suhyun approaches.

    The scene they were about to shoot was precisely this moment.

    "Camera roll!"

    The red light on the camera turned on.

    "Action!"

    Han Yooil, bing Suhyun, slowly opened his eyes. Squinting with one eye, Suhyun looked in the direction where Kim Shin and his group were.

    ""

    Then he started walking with a slight swagger, his legs rxed yet his core firmly held. It was the walk of a rascal, one who seemingly cares little for the world but still lives life with a certain earnestness. A junior staff member couldn''t help but smile slightly at the sight.

    "This is the boat to Haseokdo," Suhyun muttered, pointing at his own boat anchored at a distance. Eunyoung and Daeoh turned their heads in surprise.

    "You''re going to Haseokdo?! Really?!"

    "Can we go right now? Please, we''ll pay you!"

    Suhyun decides to take the three on board without epting any money. The atmosphere changed when Kim Shin asked a serious question.

    "But why are you taking us? You''re not even getting paid to go to a secluded ind."

    With a candid response, Suhyun replied.

    "It piqued my interest when I heard your story. Thought I''d tag along."

    "Excuse me."

    Eunyoung took a step forward towards Suhyun, her expression bing stern, her ck bob swishing at her chin.

    "It seems you don''t understand the gravity of the situation We''re not going on a leisure trip. We received a tip."

    Despite Eunyoung''s sharp words, Suhyun nonchntly nodded.

    "Ah, yes."

    That response only made Eunyoung''s temper re.

    "I said this isn''t a joke!"

    The mood was growing tense. It was Daeoh who intervened.

    "Let''s, let''s stop here. It''s getting too dark"

    "Hmph."

    Eunyoung sighed in frustration, and behind her, Kim Shin''s serious face was captured.

    "Cut!"

    Director Go Jinho nodded in satisfaction.

    They''re good. Better synergy than I thought.''

    It wasn''t surprising that the three actors of simr age had a good rapport. What was surprising was something else.

    <i>He''s not getting overshadowed by Park Taeil.''</i>

    Director Go Jinho called out in a cheerful voice.

    "Okay~ Let''s move on to the next scene."

    The staff started moving swiftly. The next scene was a dialogue on the boat heading to Haseokdo. The shooting was not on a boat afloat at sea but on a vessel installed onnd.

    It was thought to be a model boat, but it turned out to be an actual ship that had been in operation until a few years ago. Arge chroma-key cloth was installed behind the boat.

    Park Taeil joked as he saw the three actors climbing aboard.

    "It''s like, you know those wooden horses in front of big restaurants! Right?"

    "Huh?"

    The two actors with extensive experience as child actors looked at Park Taeil, clueless.

    "You mean the coin-operated horses?"

    "Oh! Yeah, that one!"

    Yooil''sment made Park Taeil excitedly join in.

    Park Taeil, who kept cracking jokes, immersed himself instantly as the camera started rolling.

    "It''s a cult."

    The intensity of the scene enveloped everyone on set.

    Kim Shin''s words left Eunyoung and Daeoh with frozen expressions.

    "What do you mean?"

    "That ind. And all the people living there"

    Suddenly, an unexpected burst ofughter broke the tension.

    "Ah, sorry. It just sounded so right, I couldn''t help butugh."

    Suhyun''s expression was ambiguous, teetering betweenposure and madness.

    "You seem to know a lot about it."

    "I do know quite a bit."

    A shadow momentarily passed through Suhyun''s eyes, but he shrugged it off nonchntly.

    "It''s where I used to live."

    His tone was dry, almost imperceptibly so unless scrutinized closely.

    At Suhyun''s unexpected revtion, the group was stunned, and he casually scratched his head.

    "Aren''t youing?"

    Then, the clear sound of "Cut!" filled the air.

    Park Taeil looked at Yooil with a newfound expression.

    "This is unexpected."

    Kim Suna and Park Younghyun were also exceptional actors, but the Suhyun'' Yooil had created was ayer apart from the character they had envisioned from the script.

    It felt like a newyer had been added.

    "That''s refreshing."

    Park Taeil looked at Yooil with a pleased expression.

    The filming continued smoothly until an unexpected incident urred.

    "No, you can''te in here!"

    "Damn it! Why not! It''s my house, I''m going in!"

    The voice of a clearly intoxicated man echoed through the set.

    "?!"

    The actors looked towards the source of the disturbance, and then a nging sound rang out. A spare light had fallen to the ground.

    Screams started to emanate from various ces.

    "!"

    Yooil quickly leaped off the boat and rushed over.

    A staff member was clutching their hand, pale-faced. It seemed they had cut their finger trying to catch the falling light.

    "Are you okay?"

    "Ah Yes, I''m fine."

    A few staff members were holding back the red-faced middle-aged man, but despite their efforts, the drunken man was swinging his fists in the air, insisting on going into his house.

    Yooil stood in front of the man. The man''s grizzled hair and flushed brown skin were evident.

    "Let''s talk this out."

    "Who the hell are you? This is my house!"

    The middle-aged man, muttering curses, took a step back upon seeing Yooil. Yooil realized that the man''s gaze lingered on his tattooed arms for a long time.

    <i>Didn''t expect the tattoo stickers toe in handy like this.''</i>

    Thanks to a month of intensive bulking for the role of Suhyun, Yooil''s physique had improved considerably.

    Stepping forward, Yooil asked the man,

    "Did you just say that container over there is your house?"

    "Yeah, that''s right! It''s my house! If you want to film in my front yard, you should have asked for permission!"

    Yooil tilted his head slightly as he looked at the man.

    "Are you sure it''s really your house?"

    He had a reason to doubt.

    There are no registered residences or houses'' within 100 meters of the filming location.

    "Yeah, S*X, this punk is in my house! Call the police! Huh?!"

    The man''s violent outburst had the staff trembling in fear.

    <i>What should we do''</i>

    <i>Safety first, let''s get the actors away from here first''</i>

    As the staff whispered, waiting for the police to arrive, the middle-aged man swung his arms wildly.

    "!"

    Park Younghyun and Kim Suna were about to spring into action, but Han Yooil was quicker.

    Yooil lightly grasped the man''s wrist. Brion''s voice rang out once more.

    Pattern analysisplete. In about 1.5 seconds, the individual will swing his left hand towards your face.

    Yooil held both wrists of the middle-aged man firmly, his expression unchanging, he spoke.

    "Are you okay?"

    "!"

    "Considering you''ve alreadymitted interference with business, assault, and property damage. And now you''re adding trespassing."

    Min Woojin, who had been dyed due to being in the restroom, gasped as he blocked Yooil''s path, and the timely arrival of a police car prevented the situation from escting further.

    Director Go Jinho, looking exhausted, said,

    "Jaekyung, go to the ER to get that hand treated Everyone must be shaken up, let''s take a break and regroup."

    The staff member with the injured hand headed straight to the hospital. The wound seemed not to be severe, and as word spread, the tense atmosphere eased a bit.

    <i>Thank goodness.''</i>

    As everyone took a breather and the actors were having their makeup touched up, Yooil''s phone rang.

    * * *

    A few days earlier.

    In a dark room where thick ckout curtains blocked all light, a man stood staring intently at a poster on the wall.

    [I WILL NEVER DIE.]

    It was a poster for the dark hero movie "Dogman" from the 2000s, the film that first led the man into acting.

    <i>Is it going to end like this?''</i>

    Kang Hyesung, his face worn, repeatedly punched the wall.

    As his period of reflection dragged on, anxiety and unrest began to gnaw at him.

    <i>Damn it.''</i>

    The staff''s revtions and the controversies over his character seemedughable.

    <i>What did I do so wrong!''</i>

    Those who confronted him couldn''t even raise their voices.

    "Manager, I can''t live like this anymore! Huh?!"

    Kang Hyesung, it''s still time for you to reflect!

    "But with Sun and Moon,'' it''s almost certain KVN will give us an award!"

    He began to beg, abandoning all pride.

    "Please If I fall behind here, I''m really doomed, Manager Please help me."

    Eventually, Kang Hyesung got the answer he wanted.

    Ah, damn it. Do whatever you want, okay? Do whatever you want!

    Though the tone was rough, permission was still permission.

    Kang Hyesung immediately arranged an interview that day. The full text of his interview was published not long after.

    Coincidentally, the publication coincided with midnight on the day of Yooil''s first shoot.

    "He''s really pushing it."

    CEO Jang, checking his phone, got up from the bed.

    In the darkness, his eyes shone sharply.

 Chapter 95:

    Chapter 95:

    Kang Hana: Yooil are you okay?

    Hwang Riu: Huh?

    Hwang Riu: What happened?

    Kang Hana: (link)

    Hwang Riu: ???

    Before Yooil could click on the link, Brion opened a translucent window. What Brion showed was an article.

    -[Exclusive] Kang Hyesung Breaks Silence Amidst Controversy "At least I havent done anything shameful"

    [Actor Kang Hyesung, who has been embroiled in various controversies recently, has finally spoken up. 38 days ago, he rified his stance regarding the controversies surrounding him through News DK.]

    <i>!</i>

    Yooil quickly scanned the content of the article.

    [Q: Youve been mentioned in various controversies, why haven''t you addressed them directly?

    A: Being a celebrity, an actor, means inevitably facing many controversies. There were times when I deliberately chose not toment and let things pass. There were misunderstandings and instances where things were blown out of proportion, but I didnt want to speak up and cause harm to others.

    Q: The controversy started with a video shot on the set of The Sun and Moon.

    A: Thats right. To be honest, I wasnt feeling well that day. I was going through some personal difficulties. (Here, Kang Hyesung paused to wipe away tears.) The other actor insisted on multiple retakes that day.

    Q: Was there a reason?

    A: Perhaps they felt the scene wascking. Of course, the director was okay with the first take but it seems it wasn''t up to the actor''s standards. In fact, this had happened a few times before.]

    As he read the article, Han Yooil''s head slightly tilted.

    Are you okay?

    Yooil slowly shook his head.

    <i>Whats there to be not okay about.</i>

    It was surprising. Unsettling even.

    But the first thought that came to Han Yooil wasnt about Kang Hyesung or the reactions on social media.

    <i>Was the next scene Scene 32?</i>

    Han Yooil closed his eyes and painstakingly reyed the scene 32 in his mind. It would have been something Kang Hyesung would have hit the wall for multiple times if he knew.

    Then, outside the waiting room, a voice called for Han Yooil.

    Were going in for the shoot~

    Yooil loosened up his body and started walking.

    * * *

    Meanwhile, at the same time.

    The fans of Han Yooil, filled with excitement while waiting for season 2 of Shadows of Faith,'' were about to encounter an unexpected event.

    Kang Hyesung''s rification Interview Released

    [(link)]

    Huh?

    Can someone summarize?

    Exined about the leaked video from the set of The Sun and Moon.

    Apparently, he was physically exhausted, but Han Yooil insisted on retaking several times.

    Really?

    Lying in bed for somete-night fandom activities, an office worker felt fully awakened and sat up straight.

    <i>Whats this?</i>

    The office worker forgot about having to go to work the next day and dived into themunity forum.

    Didnt address the controversy about mistreating the staff.

    He posted an apology on Shasta, didnt he?

    The point is not whether he apologized, but the reason behind Kang Hyesung''s anger in the controversial video that started it all.

    How is that not important? The deflection is real lol.

    Must be that actors fan lol.

    What exactly is going on?

    The interview was a chance for Kang Hyesung''s fans to turn the tide of public opinion.

    So, was the other actor at fault in the first ce?

    When the controversy broke, they went from neutral to outright bashing lol.

    Just thinking about my actor going through all this alone makes me tear up

    As time went on, not a few expressed their anger in more aggressive ways.

    The real problem child is someone else, but theyre picking on the wrong person;;

    I mean, I would be annoyed too, right? lol

    When their own fans were causing trouble, they were all over the ce, but now they say we need to hear both sides, real double standards lol.

    Kang Hyesung''s interview was shared on SNS andmunity forums, bing a hot topic overnight and trending in real-time searches. Confused fans of Han Yooil, angry fans of Kang Hyesung, and even those who were just enjoying the drama, started to get involved.

    It was chaos.

    But regardless of what was happening online, Han Yooil was focused on the shoot.

    Okay!

    Just before sunrise, the final scene was wrapped up.

    You all worked really hard today~

    Thank you for your hard work~

    The actors, with tired eyes, exchanged greetings.

    Im really sorry for the dawn shoot on the first day~

    Haha, it''s all good if the bonus is generous!

    Park Taeil, who responded to Director Go Jinho with augh, nodded at Yooil with a wink.

    Great acting today, Yooil.

    After leaving the set and heading to the van, Yooil met Min Woojin who was waiting for him.

    Yooil.

    Seeing Min Woojin''s face, like a puppy caught in the rain, Yooil gave a faint smile.

    You know, that

    Im fine, hyung.

    You saw it.

    Min Woojin began frantically messing up his already fluffy hair with both hands.

    Hyung, youll tangle your hair.

    At Yooil''s words, Min Woojin lowered his hands with a sullen face.

    Truth is, its already all tangled

    Hyung, you had to cut your hairst time because of that.

    Comining about his hair not being straight, Min Woojin began driving while once again being cautious around Yooil.

    After seeing that interview, it seems like he was really gearing up for it.

    Seems like it.

    It''s not seems like it''!

    Min Woojin looked at Yooil with a frustrated face.

    In that short time,ments like Apologize to Kang Hyesung'' started to asionally appear on Yooil''s Shasta.

    <i>Must be troubling for him.</i>

    Han Yooil was excessively calm every time there was a controversy, big or small.

    No matter how strong someone''s mental fortitude, truly being unaffected'' is not easy.

    First, the CEO said to meet tomorrow, so I''lle to pick you up in the afternoon.

    I can go alone.

    No!

    Seeing Min Woojin shaking his head vigorously, Han Yooil decided against going alone.

    * * *

    The next day, after waking upte and doing some light exercise, Yooil headed to the underground parking lot where Min Woojin was waiting.

    How''s your condition, Yooil?

    Its okay."

    As soon as he got home, Yooil had crashed. Min Woojin, who was driving, turned his head.

    Uh? Yooil, your phone is ringing.

    It was an unknown number.

    Yooil hesitated for a moment before answering the call.

    Hello?

    Ah, Yooil.

    Narrowing his brows, Han Yooil soon realized who the voice belonged to.

    Its Kang Hyesung.

    <i>I know.</i>

    He didn''t expect him to contact directly.

    Yes, Kang Hyesung.

    Hearing Yooils voice, Min Woojin looked back with a stern face as if he saw a ghost.

    <i>Hang up! Just hang up!</i>

    Yooil, encouraged by Min Woojins silent cheer(?), slightly raised the corner of his lips.

    <i>It''s okay.''</i>

    As Han Yooil mouthed the words, Min Woojin, with a sour face, turned his head back.

    Kang Hyesung continued speaking in a slightly hurried tone.

    Youre doing well, right? I assume you are.

    After talking by himself for a while, he got to the point.

    Yooil you know that my doing that interview and all, it wasnt because I have a grudge against you, right?

    His conclusion was this.

    I was thinking, maybe we could have a meal together when you have time, to clear the air. It could be beneficial for both of us, for you and me.

    <i>Hmm</i>

    The idea was to present a reconciliatory image, considering both were impacted in terms of image.

    It seems intended to ensure controversy-free participation in the uing KVN Acting Awards.

    Considering the discussion, even the interview seemed to have been aimed at this.

    <i>I dont like that.</i>

    Just as Han Yooil was searching for a response, his phone rang again. It was a missed call notification.

    What do you think?

    Ah, Im sorry. I just received an important call Ill contact youter.

    What? What did you say? Wait a minu

    Yooil quickly hung up and dialed the missed call.

    Yooil, youll be arriving at thepany soon, right?

    It was CEO Jang Jaehyun.

    * * *

    As soon as Yooil entered the office, Jang Jaehyun handed him a hot cup of coffee.

    I just received a new video.

    A video?

    CEO Jang Jaehyun nodded without a word, his expression inducing a strange unease.

    Soon, a video appeared on the tablet he was holding.

    <i>This is</i>

    !

    It looked like a video shot from a drama set monitor.

    It was the scene where Lee Bin and Yoo Kwon first met in the drama.

    It was the scene where the two characters crossed swords for the first time.

    The moment Kang Hyesung mistakenly stepped and swung his wooden sword towards Han Yooil''s corbone. It was the day a serious ident nearly urred had Han Yooil not deflected the wooden sword.

    Gasp

    Wow, that was a close call.

    In the video, after the directors okay sign, the relief and sighs of the surrounding staff were clearly audible.

    Sh*t That scared the hell out of me.

    And all of Kang Hyesung''s irritated remarks were captured.

    How on earth did you get this?

    Seeing the question on Yooil''s face, CEO Jang Jaehyun spoke up.

    Actor Lee Bohee sent it to us.

    Lee Bohee, the senior actor?

    It was an unexpected name.

    She said her manager used to film the set during every monitoring session.

    CEO Jang Jaehyun continued smoothly.

    The manager liked your action scenes, Yooil, and filmed them even when Bohee wasnt in the scene.

    <i>Ah.</i>

    CEO Jang Jaehyun added, implying that things might conclude smoothly.

    You just focus on your acting and the year-end award ceremony, Yooil.

    But of course, thats not all.

    Director Jang Jaeyi, who was sitting next to them, stood up. She smiled faintly as she looked at Yooil.

    You didnt hear about this from Younghyun, did you?

    Whatever it was, it seemed like he hadnt mentioned it.

    When Younghyun left TO Entertainment, the CEO of TO Entertainment was under investigation for stock maniption.

    !

    After that, they cut off loose ends and used money to prevent the news from reaching the press. It seems theyve been keeping it under wraps until now, but it''s uncertain when it might blow up.

    Han Yooil blinked slowly.

    He remembered the stock maniption scandal from a few years ago. It was covered in the news and extensively reported, so Yooil also remembered. There were many celebrities and politicians involved in the case, making it a hot topic.

    So, it wouldnt be strange if it came to light now.

    Is that possible?

    If it hadn''t been reported until now, it must have been tightly controlled.

    At Han Yooils question, Jang Jaeyi''s eyes sparkled.

    Oh it''s possible.

    Jang Jaeyi added with a refreshed expression.

    What do you think we did to get Younghyun out?

    Both Director Jang Jaeyi and CEO Jang Jaehyun looked at Yooil with a sly smile.

    !

    For the first time, Yooil felt a bit intimidated by the two of them.

 Chapter 96:

    Chapter 96:

    After Kang Hyesung''s interview was published, an office worker, having not slept properly for hours and just browsing through onlinemunities, went to work with dark circles under their eyes.

    Ah, Im dying.

    Amidst this, a colleague, nicknamed the sibling of Mooi,'' tried to cheer up the office worker by offering a cup of coffee.

    Thank you.

    Cheer up, manager!

    The office worker, seeing the cheerful face of their colleague, swallowed a sigh. However, more than their own haggard appearance, they were worried about Han Yooil.

    Manager, did you bring lunch today?

    Oh, yes.

    Feeling too distressed to eat, the office worker had only bought a simple sandwich on the way to work.

    While biting into a store-bought pumpkin sandwich, habitually checking BlueChat, the office worker noticed a post that caught their attention.

    [@yuulll_33 (link)

    What''s this?]

    [@jinnnny Wow]

    The link led to Otube, a video uploaded by an anonymous ount.

    Upon watching, the office worker immediately recognized it.

    <i>This is from The Sun and the Moon episode 2.</i>

    It was the notorious wooden sword scene.

    Unlike the edited drama scene, the unsteady camera and the staff''s concerns after the cut captured the tense atmosphere on set.

    Wow

    What.. is this?

    That looks really dangerous;;

    If Han Yooil was even 0.5 seconds slower, that would have been an injury.

    Those reflexes are insane.

    Those who watched the video multiple times caught every sound in the background.

    But is that Kang Hyesung at 0:53?

    Sounds like he''s swearing..?

    Yep.

    He makes a mistake and swears at Han Yooil lol.

    And he did the interview after this?

    Truly legendary.

    The video, being short, started trending as Otube short-form content and spread across mostmunities within a few hours.

    But the video wasn''t the end of it.

    Contrary to Kang Hyesung''s hopes, his interview was soon overshadowed by a bigger controversy.

    TO Entertainment, Evidence of Involvement in KDK Stock Maniption Uncovered

    TO Entertainment Silent on Stock Maniption Allegations

    TO Entertainments CEO: One of the Main yers in KDK Stock Maniption Involvement of Affiliated Celebrities Under Scrutiny

    Until a few hours ago, Kang Hyesung''s fandom was fervently defending him, but they quickly fell into a somber mood.

    [@mystrong_sung Im closing my ount. Don''t send chats.]

    [@star_h.sung close. Were shutting down.]

    Everyone knew.

    It had be something beyond anyone''s control.

    * * *

    Inside his room, Han Yooil slowly closed his phone.

    <i>Is this how it ends?</i>

    He didnt feel relieved or happy.

    It wasnt pleasant to watch others tiptoeing around him either.

    While the filming for Shadows of Faith'' was going smoothly, Park Younghyun and Kim Suna asionally checked on Yooils expression during breaks. Park Younghyun even cautiously approached Yooil after shooting to chat.

    Just, if you''re okay I was thinking we could order some tteokbokki at my ce

    Considering his usual strict diet, it was saying something. Yooil could guess his own expressions during non-acting moments without looking in a mirror.

    Brion spoke in a dry voice.

    It was bound to happen eventually.

    <i>Is that so.</i>

    Yes.

    In such times, the decisive responses from Brion ironically seemed to be of help. Han Yooil gripped the script in his hand tighter. When his mind was heavy with thoughts, exhausting his body was often the best remedy.

    Scene 4-4 background immersion.

    Initiating background immersion for Scene 4-4.

    Han Yooil closed his eyes.

    When he opened them again, he saw a middle-aged woman smiling in front of him. Yooil knew she was supposed to be his character Suhyuns mother.

    A woman who had fallen into a ridiculous cult, dragging her husband into a quagmire from which he couldn''t escape.

    Suhyun looked at the woman with mixed feelings.

    It had been years since hest saw his mother. In that time, her hair had turned white and her wrinkles had deepened.

    Its been tough for you, hasnt it, my child?

    As Suhyun scanned her face deeply, he unintentionally began to hope, even though he knew he shouldnt.

    If you just believe in Hanaa God, everything will be resolved.

    Suhyuns face revealed his dark and intense emotions, raw and unfiltered, like ck coffee poured out carelessly.

    Huh? Suhyun, we can be saved.

    Suhyuns face contorted.

    Nonsense.

    It was an expectation betrayed countless times. Yet, he found himself foolishly wanting to believe it once more. He muttered again with one side of his mouth curled up.

    Stop the nonsense.

    * * *

    After two more background immersions, Yooil copsed onto his bed, unable to even open his eyes properly due to the overwhelming fatigue.

    Excessive use of background immersion can lead to fatigue, hypoxia, headaches, chest pain

    Thats why he couldnt properly hear Brions voice.

    And it can also induce sleep.

    He also didn''t notice that Brion''sstment was slightly different from the beginning.

    * * *

    The next day, Yooil entered thepany, continuously rubbing his stiff neck.

    <i>Did I sleep wrong?</i>

    Whether it was his posture during sleep or something else, his neck hurt every time he moved.

    Yooil! Sorry, the meeting took longer than expected~

    Its alright.

    As Jang Jaeyi entered the office, Yooil straightened up.

    Its almost awards season, Yooil.

    Ah, yes.

    Director Jang Jaeyi tilted her head, observing Yooils calm demeanor.

    Arent you excited, Yooil?

    Excited?

    Hearing Jang Jaeyis question, Han Yooil pressed his lips together, thought for a moment, then shook his head.

    No. Honestly, Im not expecting to win any awards. The other nominees are all very strong.

    <i>Hes sincere.</i>

    Indeed, this years KVN Acting Awards werepetitive. There were notable nominees like Kim Seojin, who disyed impressive acting skills in an action mystery drama as a neer, and Han Subin, who shone in a legal drama. Both had built substantial fan bases and were popr.

    Both dramas were reasonably sessful. Some even said it was the year KVN dramas made aeback.

    <i>Still, he should have some expectations with KVN.</i>

    It wasntmon for a neer to leave such an impact. The number of his fan club members was increasing every day.

    <i>And he''s quite mentioned on SNS andmunities.</i>

    This was something the PR team knew, constantly monitoring the data.

    Moreover, <Jinhee> was performing unexpectedly well.

    It had won the Foreign Language Film Award from the National Society of Film Critics, a part of the International Federation of Film Critics. The National Society of Film Critics Awards was one of the globally recognized awards, representing the U.S. in the federation.

    If I had known, I would have asked CEO Oh to focus more on the promotion~

    Director Won Heesu, speaking to Yooil after a while, said this half-jokingly, half-seriously.

    The Academy Awards results were determined by the votes of hundreds, if not thousands, of members among the films released in the United States, making promotion inevitably crucial. It was only natural that well-known films through various marketing efforts were more likely to leave a strong impression on the judges. Director Won Heesu also had no expectations for the Academy Awards.

    As Yooil was recalling his conversation with Director Won Heesu, Chief Manager Jang Jaeyi continued in a cheerful voice,

    "This time, we won''t have you doing a fashion show for a long time like before Actually, I''d love to do that, but Yooil, you''re just too busy."

    <i>Ah.''</i>

    Han Yooil blinked. Seeing Yooil''s face mix relief with bewilderment, Jang Jaeyi chuckled and shook her head.

    "You don''t have to worry about not paying attention to the outfit. I''ll prepare it properly."

    Before Yooil could respond, Chief Manager Jang Jaeyi shrugged her shoulders and said,

    "Well, Yooil, even if you wear a sack, you''ll shine."

    Thats not true.

    But Yooil couldn''t say anything, as Chief Manager Jang Jaeyi''s eyes sparkled too much.

    * * *

    After the controversy stirred by Kang Hyesung had passed,

    a rtively calm atmosphere had formed among Han Yooil''s fandom, when the first still cut of "Shadows of Faith" was released. Although there was still half a year left before the series was released, it was part of the marketing strategy to build anticipation.

    omg

    What''s with the tattoo? Crazy

    Is that really Han Yooil?????

    Seriously, I almost didn''t recognize him

    If I pass by and our eyes meet, I''ll freak out..

    Lololol agreed

    You all know it''s half a year until "Shadows of Faith" is released, right? ^O^

    You, seriously..

    Can''t wait (picture of someone having difficulty breathing)

    But really, no clue how he''s going to act

    As the still cut was released, and as the KVN Acting Awards and the Blue Dragon Film Awards were approaching, Han Yooil''s fans couldn''t hide their anticipation.

    Meanwhile, another piece of news weed by the fans arrived.

    Han Yooil was entering a new variety show. Moreover, it was one of the most trending variety shows recently.

    "Please Take Care of My Doggie."

    The program, abbreviated as DogCare,'' was a life-immersive variety show where the cast brought in dogs from a shelter and became their temporary caretakers for fifteen days.

    It wasn''t about taking care of someone''s dog for a day or two, nor was it volunteering at a shelter, but rather fully caring for a dog for fifteen days, making the show almost like a documentary. Hence, if not taken seriously, it could easily be controversial.

    Thats why when Yooil first expressed his wish to appear on the show, thepany was surprised.

    "You want to do Please Take Care of My Doggie''? Hmm Its a popr and trending program, so its all good but"

    Chief Manager Jang Jaeyi, with her eyes narrowed, looked at Yooil.

    "Why DogCare'' of all things?"

    ''

    In truth, Han Yooil''s decision wasn''t based on deep contemtion.

    Han Yooil in DogCare'' would be great

    It would be perfect..

    Not just from the asionalments he saw, but there was also a fan who specifically wished for Yooil''s participation in DogCare''.

    Day 80 praying for Yooil''s participation in DogCare''

    Day 91 praying for Yooil''s participation in DogCare''

    Every time Yooil went into Yooilmui,'' he could see the posts diligently uploaded by a fan. Reading those posts always made him feel a bit heavy-hearted.

    "I just wanted to give it a try And also, this season of DogCare'' is about to end soon."

    "Ah, that''s true."

    Quick to understand, Chief Manager Jang Jaeyi soon said she would contact the producer.

    The Please Take Care of My Doggie'' team weed Yooil more enthusiastically than expected.

    We''d love to have you~! We knew you were busy with the shooting, so we didn''t even try to recruit you!

    And just like that, Han Yooil''s variety show shooting was decided swiftly.

    * * *

    Lee Hyejin had never felt her heart flutter so much as these days. Every day felt like riding a rollercoaster.

    Though she thought she didn''t need this kind of thrill for being a fan, fortunately, things worked out in the end.

    Wow, time really isn''t moving.''

    Lee Hyejin nced anxiously at the clock.

    It wasn''t the end of the online lecture that Lee Hyejin was eagerly waiting for as the semester came to a close.

    What she was anticipating was the premiere of the trailer for "Please Take Care of My Doggie".

    Ding!

    "It''s here!"

    With a cry of joy, Lee Hyejin''s fingers moved swiftly to y the video.

    The trailer began with an interview with Han Yooil.

    He was dressed in a in grey hoodie and jeans.

    Wow, his face is paradise

    Can Han Yooil star in a campus youth drama next time?

    It looks almost like his bare face, how can he look like that?

    In the next scene, a fluffy andrge dog appeared. The dog had shiny ck eyes and a moist, pink nose.

    <i>So cute''</i>

    Lee Hyejin couldn''t help but open her mouth wide.

    "The friend I''ve brought this time is Mng. She''s one year old and weighs 20kg."

    [Why is her name Mng?]

    Pausing at the producer''s question, Yooil thought for a moment before opening his mouth.

    "Her nose is really soft."

    Ah

    Did hee up with the name himself?

    So cute

    But Mng does look really soft

    As soon as the interview ended, the scene shifted to Han Yooil''s house.

    <i>Wow, the house is really beautiful.''</i>

    Even at a nce, it was a very tidy house.

    Brown and white were appropriately arranged, giving a clean, minimal, yet warm feel.

    [Day 1 of Temporary Care]

    The subtitle appeared along with the sight of Yooil, with his hair disheveled, looking around the house for the dog.

    "Mng?"

    Searching around the house, Yooil found Mng crouched under the sofa.

    "!"

    And with the scene of the dog''s excrement, mosaic-censored on a white bathroom mat, the trailer came to an end.

    Lol

    If you''re going to show everything, why mosaic it

    Ah It was a good bath mat

    Lee Hyejin began posting on BlueChat, covering her mouth.

    [@jinnnny DogCare'' is crazy, we have to preserve Han Yooil''s hoodie]

    [@jinnnny Ah, it''s so cute, really,,,]

    [@jinnnny How can the puppy''s name be Mng too]

    One week before the broadcast of "Please Take Care of My Doggie".

    At that moment, a trailer with one of the best reactions among all those released for "Please Take Care of My Doggie" was unveiled.

 Chapter 97:

    Chapter 97:

    On the first day of filming "Please Take Care of My Doggie," Yooil headed to a foster care center located on the outskirts of Gyeonggi Province, apanied by the producer. Nestled in the countryside, surrounded by fields, the center appeared dpidated from the outside, but the interior was rtively clean.

    "Although we volunteers regrly supply food and toys it''s best for these dogs to find a loving owner soon. They all deserve to be loved," said one of the volunteers, whose eyes lit up as they started talking about the dogs.

    "We rescue dogs scheduled for euthanasia and bring them here, but the center is always at full capacity."

    "It''s tough because to rescue more dogs, those in the center need to be adopted, but realistically, there are few adopters."

    Yooil nodded, following the volunteers.

    "Some dogs are aggressive, others are timid or sensitive."

    Each small 1-square-meterpartment housed a dog.

    "They all seem to be about the same size."

    "Yes. asionally, we get dogs under 10kg, but most are between 15kg and 20kg."

    Most dogs in the center seem to be Jindo mixes.''

    Upon Yooil''s inquiry, the volunteer nodded, a grim look on their face.

    "Yes. There''s still a strong stigma against them as non-house dogs Adoption is especially tough for them. Most of the dogs that have been here a long time are adult Jindo mixes."

    Hearing the volunteers'' exnations, Yooil''s expression hardened. The producer, capturing every nuance of his expression, asked,

    "Yooil, shall we go see the dogs the volunteers rmended for temporary care?"

    With a heavy heart, Yooil nodded.

    "This one is very lively. Loves people too."

    "This pup is just 9 months old, curious and"

    Yooil''s steps halted mid-walk as the volunteers continued.

    ""

    Through the bars, he saw fluffy fur, a bushy tail, and a pink nose. But it was the dog''s wary eyes, crouched in a corner, that caught his attention first.

    "Isn''t he handsome?"

    The volunteer continued with a sympathetic look,

    "He''s gentle, but very, very scared. Afraid of strangers and new sounds Rescued from the streets at a young age, he''s been living here for a year now."

    "Can I choose this one?"

    Yooil''s request took the volunteers by surprise.

    "Of course, we''d be grateful Are you sure? It might be challenging if it''s your first time caring for a dog"

    Yooil nodded.

    Somehow, he felt he could do well.

    "I''ll do my best."

    * * *

    <i>Come to think of it, today''s the first broadcast.''</i>

    Yooil slowly stroked the white fur of the dog lying beside him. The dog''s warm belly pressed against his thigh.

    "Sigh."

    Yooil adjusted his position at the dog''s sigh, and the dog, seeming content, buried its head in a corner of the sofa.

    <i>Will the broadcast be okay?''</i>

    He remembered the worried looks of the production team on the first day of filming. Once the shooting started, the main producer seemed very pleased.

    Although the sight of the production crew trying to suppress theirughter during the filming made him a bit uneasy.

    <i>It''ll be fine, I guess.''</i>

    Han Yooil began to stroke the dog again while holding a script in his other hand.

    * * *

    This episode''s DogCare'' participant

    [(Photo)

    +Dog''s name: Mng]

    Wow omg

    So cute

    Mng

    It''s extra cute because it''s so big

    In themunity of "Please Take Care of My Doggie," not limited to specific fans butprising a diverse audience,ments about the dogs often outnumbered those about the cast members. However, there were always exceptions.

    Praying for Han Yooil''s hoodie to be memorialized (1/100000)

    His face alone makes it entertaining

    But after watching the trailer, doesn''t Mng oddly resemble Han Yooil..?

    Lol agreed

    Exactly

    And so, the first episode of "Please Take Care of My Doggie" featuring Han Yooil began.

    HM sat in front of the television with a solemn heart, having set an rm for the premiere of "DogCare."

    <i>It''s starting!''</i>

    HM fixed her gaze on the screen, phone in hand with the live chat activated.

    The scene opened with Yooil, wearing the hoodie from the trailer, arriving at the foster care center.

    HM watched Yooil on the screen with a content smile.

    Yooil named the dog Mng and brought him home. His house was filled with dog supplies in every corner, prepared in advance by the production team and Yooil.

    "This is a wooden stick, and this is a tug toy Oh. This is also a toy."

    Yooil''s slightly embarrassed exnation of the items quickly passed on the screen.

    The live chat was mostly filled with cute reactions, but there were also quite a few worriedments due to the dog''s evident fear.

    Mng seems really scared, will it be okay?

    I doubt Mng wille out of the kennel today

    Yooil offered Mng some soaked food he held in his hand.

    "Mng, let''s eat."

    Despite being hungry from not eating during the drive, the dog remained crouched in the corner of the kennel, looking at Yooil with fearful eyes.

    "It''s okay It''s okay. Just try it once."

    Yooil extended his hand into the kennel, gently coaxing with a worried heart.

    Simultaneously, the live chat began to fill up rapidly.

    Why do I feel butterflies?

    He''s so caring

    Yooil Can I call you oppa?

    [After a while]

    The scene fast-forwarded, and cameras installed around the house captured the dog''s face from various angles. The ck eyes that had been watching Yooil for a long time slowly moved closer to Yooil''s selfie cam.

    !

    When Mng finally took his first bite, the chat room exploded with rapidments.

    Mng

    Wow, that''s a relief

    He''s eating so cautiously lol

    I hope Mng opens up soon

    And so, Day 1 of Yooil''s temporary care of the dog officially began.

    Around 11 am, Yooil''s face, still disheveled from sleep, appeared on the screen.

    <i>He looks like that even just after waking up.''</i>

    HM felt a mix of pride and a strange sense of defeat watching Yooil.

    [Tired-looking Yooil]

    The scene rewound to show Yooil from the night before. As he was seen reading the script for hours where Mng''s gaze reached,ments rapidly filled the chat.

    Mng''s temporary care diary + Han Yooil''s vlog..

    Look at Mng ncing over at the sofa lol

    I heard it''s important to spend time in the same space for scared dogs to adapt, seems like he''s doing it right

    The atmosphere changed with the next caption.

    [After a long while]

    [Yooil fell asleep only in the early hours of the morning.]

    ???

    ?!?!?

    Huh?

    What? In the early hours?

    The scene showed Yooil, who had stayed up all night reading the script in the living room, finally falling asleep, and the white dog cautiously stepping out of the kennel, prancing around the living room. Soon, the moment from the trailer appeared.

    "Mng?"

    Yooil, looking pale, searched for the unseen dog and found the enormous puppy wedged into a narrow gap of the sofa, and he breathed a sigh of relief.

    However, the next moment, he discovered the excrement on the bathroom mat.

    "!"

    Yooil, with widened eyes staring at the mat, soon spoke.

    "It''s okay, Mng!"

    Despite his gentle words to the frightened Mng, the scene of Yooil efficiently cleaning up the mat made HM burst outughing.

    Lol

    Yooil''s so neat, even with the bathmat

    Look at how sweet he talks even then

    The episode continued with small, humorous moments.

    Yooil got tangled in the leash during Mng''s first walk and spilled the snack container while trying to get a treat.

    Oh no

    Lol

    Is this Han Yooil''s DIY show?

    Came for the dog, but I think I''m bing a fan of Han Yooil

    How can this person be Yoo Kwon?

    But more than anything, the most heartwarming aspect was watching the dog gradually let down its guard.

    Is Mng smiling right now..?

    Watching him run around during the walk is making me happy

    This is pure healing

    However, the most popr part of the show was yet toe.

    "I don''t have a schedule today, so I''m nning to give him a bath."

    Right after Yooil''s determined face filled the screen, he was seen lifting Mng into the bathroom.

    Mng seems lighter than expected?

    Huh, wasn''t it 20kg?

    Wait, 20kg is like a bag of rice, right???

    Yooil started the bath with determination, quicklythering up and gently washing the dog.

    Mng is so well-behaved..

    Seems frozen with fear

    LolSad but cute

    But as soon as the peaceful bath ended, Yooil was met with an unexpected situation.

    The dog, which had been still ever since entering the bathroom, shook off vigorously as soon as the water was rinsed out.

    "Oh."

    Yooil looked down at himself in bewilderment. His t-shirt was soaking wet.

    Lol what now

    Who''s bathing whom here?

    But Yooil you''ve been working out, haven''t you?

    Yooil shook his head in resignation, his hair tips already wet.

    He murmured to the self-cam.

    "I guess I need to change too."

    And with a faint smile, Yooil swept back his wet hair.

    At that moment, the momentarily frozen chat room started to explode withments.

    Omg

    Wow

    What just happened?

    Mom, I found the one I want to marry

    * * *

    "Please Take Care of My Doggie" created a wealth of memorable moments with just two episodes. Not only the dedicated fans, but even casual inte users found themselves saving the viral clips and images.

    [@ewcbWvck (DogCare'' screenshot) I''m not a fan of Han Yooil, but I keep saving DogCare'' memes whenever I see them]

    [@huso_y DogCare'' is truly the best healing variety show of our time, no arguments epted]

    As the end of December approached, a social media post made every viewer of "Please Take Care of My Doggie" ecstatic.

    [@1_and_only (Photo)(Photo) A new family member has joined me! (dog emoji)]

    Wow

    Insane

    Could it be did Yooil actually adopt Mng? I''m crying

    Emergency situation

    Mng, you must be happy

    This is legendary

    * * *

    Kim Jinwoo: Send Mng''s photos

    Kim Jinwoo: Quickly

    Kim Jinwoo: (crazy eyes emoji)

    Hwang Riu: Can Ie see Mng?

    The group chat among ssmates was full of demands for pictures of the puppy.

    Yooil chuckled and picked up his camera. Hearing the rustling, Mng''s beige-mixed ears perked up.

    "This came out well."

    Han Yooil sent the photo with a satisfied smile.

    Deciding to adopt took a lot of contemtion. Daily walks or trips to the vet weren''t the issue. His main concern was the frequent absence due to his schedule.

    However, what made the adoption possible was Jin Hayoung, who visited a week after the temporary care began.

    Don''t worry and keep him. I''ll take care of him when you''re away for long.

    As Yooil searched for a response to the sudden offer, Jin Hayoung quickly added,

    Do I not know you? I can see the honey dripping from your eyes. You want to take responsibility, right?

    Instead of denying, Yooil slowly nodded.

    You can do as you wish now.

    Yooil''s reminiscing was interrupted by an emotionless, dry voice.

    Mr. Yooil, it''s almost time to leave.

    <i>Got it.''</i>

    Yooil stroked Mng''s head and got up from his seat.

    "I''ll be back."

    * * *

    Today, Yooil''s destination wasn''t a filming location.

    His carefully done makeup reflected off the dark car window.

    "Yooil, we''ve arrived."

    With Min Woojin''s tense voice, Yooil stepped out of the car.

    Yeouido''s KVN Hall.

    The ce where the annual KVN Acting Awards were held.

 Chapter 98:

    Chapter 98:

    Lee Hyejin''s family had orderedte-night snacks and were all seated in front of the television, the KVN channel on disy. With a remote in one hand and her phone in the other, Hyejin was ready to defend the remote control from her family members.

    "Can''t we watch something else?"

    "If you don''t like it, don''t eat the pizza."

    ""

    Hyejin had willingly opened her wallet for tonight''s gathering. She quickly silenced any differing opinions and focused on the logo appearing on the screen as themercials ended.

    The KVN Acting Awards.

    Unlike the usual end-of-year acting awards hosted by broadcasting stations, KVN''s Acting Awards were held in mid-December. While there was less of the excitement of the approaching New Year, the ratings were still high. In recent years, the awards had gained a reputation for tension and credibility by reducing joint awards and removing minor, unheard-of categories that had sparked controversies.

    "It''s starting!"

    Hyejin adjusted her seating position. The KVN Acting Awards'' title appeared on screen along with the unchanged graphics from years past, and hosts Lee Kanghoon and Lee Bohee were introduced.

    It''s been a while, Bohee!

    Yes, it''s great to see you after so long.

    But why didn''t you contact me sooner!

    You didn''t give me your contact, senior~

    As Hyejin was setting down the potato pizza on the table and preparing to eat, her family teased her.

    "Howe you''re only this quick when it''s time to eat?"

    "Stop teasing your sister."

    Bohee, you received your first Best New Actress award right here at the KVN Acting Awards, didn''t you?

    As the hosts'' banter continued, the camera panned to the actors sitting at tables covered with white cloths. Hyejin, searching intently for Han Yooil, gasped involuntarily.

    "Wow."

    The camera captured the cast of "The Sun and the Moon," revealing Han Yooil. He was dressed in a ck suit with his hair styled to reveal half of his forehead. His fair skin and partially swept-back hair entuated his features.

    "He''s unreal."

    Even the fan ounts dedicated to Han Yooil on BlueChat, watching the Acting Awards live, were actively posting.

    [@yuulll_33 Look at Han Yooil]

    [@dsdlf_tdbs Just screamed the moment I saw Yool''s face]

    Every time the camera caught Han Yooil, he met the lens head-on with a gentle smile. Thanks to that, Hyejin had to catch her breath even while eating her pizza.

    "Ah wish they''d just get to the announcements"

    Caught between the desire to see Han Yooil''s face longer and her impatience, a performance by a rookie girl idol group began. Ever since the incident a few years back when actors showed indifferent attitudes towards performers, it had bemon to see actors enjoying the performances.

    Look at Moon Yuhwa''s eyes,,

    So warm

    Han Yooil is pping so enthusiastically lol

    Nice to see

    Finally, the moment Hyejin had been waiting for arrivedthe announcement of the Best New Actor nominees.

    "!"

    There were five nominees, including Han Yooil, each having shown remarkable performances in either daily dramas or miniseries. The candidates were formidable, reflecting the resurgence of KVN''s golden era in drama.

    And the Best New Actor at this year''s KVN Acting Awards goes to

    Lee Hyejin stared intently at the card that held the winner''s name.

    <i>Please!''</i>

    A few seconds of suffocating silence passed before the announcer''s lips parted.

    Han Yooil!

    "Aaaaaah!"

    As Han Yooil''s name was announced, Lee Hyejin screamed and jumped for joy. Her mother and brother grumbled beside her, but their voices were lost on her at that moment.

    On the screen, Yooil looked stunned as he slowly stood up. Beyond the empty seat of Kang Hyesung, Lee Bohee was seen patting Yooil''s arm in congrattions.

    Aaahhhhh!!

    Congrattions~

    YayAmazing

    Congrats, congrats

    Honestly, knew he would win

    Han Yooil captured the hearts of viewers with his charismatic and solid performance in The Sun and the Moon.'' Congrattions on your award.

    With a vibrant voice, Yooil was seen walking up to the stage. epting the trophy and bouquet with a slightly stiff face, he stood before the microphone.

    So handsome

    Seems nervous

    Now he finally looks like a neer

    Yooil''s lips parted after he scanned the surroundings.

    I really didn''t expect to receive this award. Thank you.

    He expressed his gratitude to the staff, fellow actors, the agency, and his fans. Although he paused asionally as if nervous, Yooil continued his speech calmly.

    And to my aunt, who always believes in me. I love you.

    Yooil''s gaze met the camera once more before he spoke again.

    I''m fully aware of my shorings and how fortunate I am. I will strive to be a learner.

    "Are you crying?"

    "."

    Normally, Lee Hyejin would have retorted with a curse, but she couldn''t this time. Tears had indeed formed in her eyes.

    After the announcement of the Best New Actress, Lee Hyejin managed to shake off the lingering emotions of the Best New Actor award. She lifted the pizza again, savoring the overwhelming happiness as she took a big bite.

    Now, we have a special performance prepared. The splendid actors who were nominated for the Best New Actor and Actress will present a special stage.

    "Huh?"

    The next moment, as the stage came into view, Lee Hyejin nearly dropped the pizza slice in her hand.

    The live reactions were no different.

    ???

    What?

    What is this?

    * * *

    A few days earlier, Yooil was taken aback by unexpected news.

    "What?"

    "How about the Best New Actor nominees put on a celebratory stage performance?"

    The writer looked at Yooil with sparkling eyes. There were five nominees in total, and with only two days of practice before the performance, time was of the essence. However, the real concern was something else.

    "A musical?"

    Seeing Yooil''s face, the writer smiled brightly and said,

    "No need to worry! You don''t have to do it perfectly. Just think of it as providing fan service, like an early Christmas present!"

    That''s even more pressure.''

    Luckily, Yooil knew one of the other nominees.

    "It''s been a while."

    Ji Eunho, who had be more chiseled, appeared. Recently seen in a KVN miniseries, Ji Eunho had solidified his image as an acting idol, especially after "Sing in High School." The other three actors also seemed just as ufortable with the sudden preparation for the performance.

    "But I can''t sing, is that okay?"

    When one actor expressed his concern, the writer dismissed it with a wave of the hand.

    "Oh, it''s totally fine! Just befortable."

    Yooil noticed Ji Eunho''s expression hardening in real time.

    They were to perform a musical called "That Winter Night," a staple Christmas musical about a family who, not wanting to disappoint a child waiting for Christmas, all dress up as Santa and visit the child, leading to a series ofical events as the child meets five different Santas.

    The writer had chosen the musical''s most famous and climactic song, "I Am Santa."

    "We thought of proceeding with a custom number for you actors. Would you like to see the modified lyrics we''ve prepared?"

    The actors, full of enthusiasm, quickly became silent as they read through the revised lyrics.

    "Writer."

    "Yes, actor!"

    As one actor opened his mouth to speak, his resolve faded upon making eye contact with the writer''s beaming face.

    Ji Eunho was the quickest to grasp the situation.

    "Let''s start practicing."

    It was a moment fitting for the leader of a top idol group. Yooil quietly stood up and began the rehearsal.

    * * *

    And now, Lee Hyejin was watching the result of their two days of intense practice live.

    Wow, what''s this?

    A musical?

    ''That Winter Night'' is my all-time favorite.

    Amazing.

    The surprise of the viewers soon turned into worry.

    But they''re doing this for a celebratory stage?

    The prelude of the musical number began, and the five actors in suits took their ces on the stage.

    Han Yooil was standing at the far right of the stage, casually leaning on a chair and gazing into the distance.

    The number was lively, but the atmosphere among the actors on stage was serious.

    In the middle of the silence, observed by actors seated at the award ceremony and those watching on screen,

    the first verse was heard.

    [I am an actor!]

    It was Han Yooil.

    He kicked the chair away and stood up, starting to sing with a smooth voice. The number was a twist on "I am Santa," now turned into "I am an Actor."

    [Acting, face, voice! Nothing is missing]

    "!"

    The earnest singing of the actors continued.

    [Are you an actor?]

    [Me, an actor!]

    Seriously, LOL

    Are you crazy

    LOL LOL LOL

    Contrary to thements filled withughter, the faces of the actors on stage were very serious.

    And it was surprisingly pleasant to listen to. Especially during the harmony part in the highlight, where Ji Eunho and Han Yooils voices blended quite well.

    [We are actors!]

    [The acting that will take care of this winter]

    [Leave it to us]

    The actors seated started tough and p to the familiar melody and simplistic lyrics.

    The congrattory performance video, posted on the KVN YouTube channel after the Acting Awards, went viral, making it to the trending videos in just a few days.

    They all are real actors (Likes: 1.2k)

    Ji Eunho is indeed an idol (Likes: 234)

    Why are they so good LOL (Likes: 1.4k)

    Freshness of a neer + audacious lines + solid skills despite being rough around the edges (Likes: 893)

    Truly legendary

    Ji Eunho is understandable, but Han Yooil is really good (Likes: 453)

    It''s not for nothing that he did a musical drama

    But why are Han Yooils ears so red LOL (Likes: 763)

    Did someone light a fire on Yooils ears?

    LOL, I wouldn''t have noticed if not for thisment

    * * *

    Tsk. Thats not good.

    Yooil, who was reading the script, snatched the Best Neer trophy from Mng.

    Fortunately, there were no teeth marks, but the gold trophy was wet with drool.

    Squeak.

    The puppy, deprived of its toy, looked at Yooil with eyes like those of a deer.

    While Yooil was diverting Mng''s attention with a carrot-shaped toy, his phone rang.

    Yooil, who thought it would be Min Woojin, was proven wrong.

    Wrong number.

    Hello?

    Yes, senior. This is Han Yooil.

    A cheerful voice came from the other end of the phone.

    Do you have a moment?

    Upon hearing what followed, Yooil had no choice but to get up.

 Chapter 99:

    Chapter 99:

    The unexpected call to Yooil came from none other than Yoon Se.

    Congrattions on the Neer Award, Yooil~

    "Thank you."

    Though he responded promptly, Yooil still felt bewildered.

    They had exchanged texts since their time with the traveling theater troupe, but this was the first time Yoon Se had called him.

    Yooil, you''re filming right now, aren''t you?

    "Yes, I''m shooting a drama that''s scheduled to air next year."

    Right! Shadows of Faith. I''m really looking forward to it~

    After a brief exchange, Yoon Se''s voice, which had been engaged in light-hearted talk, took on a subtly serious tone.

    Yooil, have you ever thought about doing theater again?

    "Theater?"

    She continued in a gentle voice.

    I''m not sure if you know, but I have a director friend. Kim Juwon

    "!"

    Yooil involuntarily stood up upon hearing that name.

    <i>Kim Juwon?''</i>

    It was a familiar name.

    Back when the Wolmyeongdae Theater Club was staging Romeo in Wondend, he was the director Heo Jiyu often mentioned as her role model.

    Director Kim Juwon has been directing for 15 years with the Korean Theater Company and has received awards at the Korea Theater Awards and Baeksang Arts Awards. He is one of the most actively working directors.

    That friend is preparing a new y. It''s audition time right now.

    Yoon Se spoke slowly.

    But I rmended you to Juwon.

    "!"

    Yooil''s eyes widened.

    Sorry for rmending you without asking first. He asked me if I knew any fresh, talented actors and you were the first person I thought of. I know you must be busy with the drama shooting, but

    "I''d like to audition."

    Huh?

    Yoon Se''s voice was filled with surprise.

    I haven''t even told you the title yet?

    Achievement rate of stage 4 goals: 9.4%

    Yooil nced at the progress rate floating before his eyes and spoke slowly.

    "Ordinary Family, right?"

    Oh, right! You knew!

    Of course, he knew the title of the y because he had heard it from Brion.

    However, Yooil''s decision to participate in the y wasn''t solely due to the goal achievement rate.

    The experience of acting on stage during From the Ground still vividly lingered in his memory. His desire to stand on stage again, given the opportunity, hadn''t changed.

    Regardless of what it might be.

    As soon as the call with his agency ended, Brion''s voice began to resonate in his head.

    Ordinary Family by writer Kim Yehee is a y that won a New Spring Literary Award in the 2000s. Its timeless story is one of its strengths.

    Then Brion started to briefly exin the plot of the y. Listening to the exnation, Yooil slowly nodded his head.

    <i>This could be interesting.''</i>

    Yooil, his eyes sparkling, threw a toy to the eagerly wagging puppy. Watching the puppy wag its tail from side to side, a sense of excitement began to build in Yooil''s heart.

    * * *

    "Han Yooil?"

    "Yeah. I felt it while performing together on stage. He''s a talented guy."

    Listening to Yoon Se''s words, Kim Juwon scratched his head under the worn-out grey beanie he wore every time he directed a y. It was his lucky beanie.

    I did watch the traveling theater troupe But, hey, that PD really knew how to edit~

    Come on, I performed on the stage with him! Dont you trust my eyes?!

    Frustrated, Yoon Se clenched her fists. If it weren''t for their friendship, she might have thrown a punch or two. If only she could just show her memories in full.

    Part of me just wants to use the actors Ive known for a long time. It''s not like there are no actors in theirte 30s ying high school students in this industry

    Didnt you say you wanted to work with fresh faces, actors you havent worked with before?

    Seeing Yoon Se''s hesitant expression, Kim Juwon readjusted his beanie. That was precisely why she was considering auditions.

    Anyway Thanks for reaching out directly.

    Yoon Se sighed at Kim Juwons gruff words of gratitude.

    She knew it herself; Kim Juwon had a bit of a contrarian streak. From not visiting popr restaurants everyone liked to not favoring hit songs, this trait extended to actors as well.

    Of course, Kim Juwon had his reasons. Even if someone was renowned in the broadcasting world as a serious actor,'' if they didnt understand the unique grammar of stage acting, the feel was entirely different. Thats why she observed actors, especially the ones receiving high praise, from a distance.

    Kim Juwons lukewarm response to Yoon Ses rmendation of Han Yooil was for simr reasons.

    It might have been different if he had seen Yooil perform on stage, but Kim Juwon had been abroad when <From the Ground> was being performed.

    Hes good, you know. Sensitive and perceptive.

    After Yoon Se left, Kim Juwon mulled over her words for a long time.

    She wasnt one to speak without sincerity.

    <i>Now Im curious.</i>

    Kim Juwon stretched and thought.

    One way or another, seeing is believing.

    * * *

    Thus, on the day of the audition arranged with Yoon Ses passionate matchmaking, Kim Juwon also scheduled auditions for two other actors. Both were long-time stage actors gradually transitioning to screen.

    Thank you. I look forward to working with you, director!

    As the door closed, Kim Juwon frowned and gulped down his iced coffee. The most challenging part of his process in creating a y was casting.

    <i>Ah, this is exhausting.</i>

    He wasnt in the best mood. The two actors who auditioned before Han Yooil had both been disappointing.

    As Kim Juwon finished her coffee, Han Yooil entered.

    Hello, Im Han Yooil.

    Kim Juwon put down his coffee and looked at Yooil.

    <i>Hmm.</i>

    Neat eyebrows, double eyelids, and fair skin.

    <i>Hes good-looking.</i>

    Kim Juwon made a brief note of his first impression of Yooil and then spoke.

    Thank you foring to this out-of-the-way ce on the eve of Christmas.

    Its no trouble.

    And Im sorry.

    Kim Juwon smirked and continued casually.

    Your agency probably wasnt too thrilled about you going out of your way to audition for a y.

    Everyone was supportive.

    Yooil smiled, recalling how President Jang had told him to please take a rest'' as soon as he heard about the y.

    After some more pleasantries to ease the tension, Kim Juwon looked at Han Yooil with a face void of any smile.

    "Now that your throat should be warmed up. I have a question for you."

    He looked intently into Han Yooil''s eyes and began,

    "What exactly are you doing here?"

    It was an unexpected question.

    Given that Kim Juwon was famous among actors for his odd questions during auditions, there was even an unofficial Kim Juwon Audition Tips'' guide circting among theater actors.

    As Kim Juwon tucked a stray hair under his beanie and looked at Yooil, his eyes were a mix of 60% curiosity and 40% fatigue.

    Instead of answering, Han Yooil just stared back at her. That gaze made Kim Juwon blink involuntarily.

    <i>What?''</i>

    The light in Yooil''s eyes, which had been sparkling with life, began to dim.

    <i>?!''</i>

    Not just that. His facial muscles started to stiffen.

    And then, Yooil spoke.

    "Could you, repeat the question?"

    The slight shake in Kim Juwon''s eyes wasn''t just because it was the first time an actor had responded to her question with another question.

    <i>The tone has changed.''</i>

    When Kim Juwon, trying to maintainposure, asked again, Han Yooil slowly opened his mouth.

    "I am in the process of, discovery."

    His eyes were empty, his speech was halting and choppy, and his movements were subtly unnatural.

    Yet, his face still bore a smile, kind but devoid of warmth.

    "Discovering what?"

    When Kim Juwon asked almost reflexively, Han Yooil''s mouth opened once more.

    "Anything, at all."

    "Why?"

    "Because, that''s how I was designed."

    <i>!''</i>

    It was then that Kim Juwon fully realized what Han Yooil was doing.

    If one were to categorize the y <Ordinary Family>, it would be a sci-fi drama.

    Set in a distant, radiation-polluted future Earth where most of humanity had either migrated to others or perished, the central characters were three: a girl, a grandmother, and a humanoid exploration robot.

    The role Yooil was auditioning for was this robot''.

    While such a role could easily be cringeworthy, Han Yooil''s portrayal was understated.

    Moreover, the robot he portrayed wasn''t a clich character.

    <i>It doesn''t feel like he''s imitating anyone.''</i>

    Kim Juwon could tell from Yooil''s tone, expressions, and eye movements that he had crafted a new character exclusively for this moment.

    <i>Ah.''</i>

    He finally understood why his friend had so fervently rmended this actor.

    <i>Interesting.''</i>

    And refreshing.

    Kim Juwon raised her eyebrows and asked,

    "Yooil, have you read the script for <Ordinary Family>?"

    "Yes."

    Kim Juwon nodded as if he had expected this answer.

    And then thought quickly.

    <i>Is there really a need to see him read the script?''</i>

    <i>No need.''</i>

    Kim Juwon swiftly concluded and stood up from her seat.

    "Let''s meet again in a few days."

    Kim Juwon extended her rough hand towards Yooil.

    "That will be a formal meeting."

    * * *

    After the casting for the robot'' role, the final piece of the puzzle for <Ordinary Family>, had beenpleted, Yooil was busily attending his year-end schedules.

    Then, on thete evening before the Blue Dragon Film Awards ceremony, Yooil found a brief moment of respite and decided to turn on Shasta Live.

    "Please bear with me even if I look a bit odd. I started this stream just before going to bed due tock of time."

    Huh?

    You know saying things like that could get you in trouble with thew of beauty

    Your beauty is insane

    Yooil, why is your skin so good?

    The number of viewers in the live broadcast had soon exceeded five thousand.

    Thanks to the overseas export of <The Sun and Moon> and the variety shows Yooil had appeared in, the proportion of Englishments was also increasing day by day.

    Eng plz

    Where is MALANG?

    love u yu-il

    "Mng is sleeping over there."

    Yooil, who had been filming his face, turned the camera to show the dog deeply asleep on the sofa, stretching its legs.

    "But did you all watch

    ? How do you all know Mng."

    Of course

    I''ve watched it so many times I know the lines by heart

    Yooil''s lips curved up involuntarily as he watched the rapidly climbing chat.

    "Ah. Thank you. Please give Mng lots of love."

    Love Mng!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    OMG

    Ahh Yooil love you!!!!!!!

    As Yooil was earnestly reading the fans''ments, his phone rang.

    "Ah, everyone. Please hold on a moment."

    Yooil quickly checked the message. It was from Min Woojin.

    Min Woojin Manager Hyung: Yooil, you really need to sleep now, please

    Min Woojin Manager Hyung: Seriously

    Min Woojin Manager Hyung: I''m getting calls from the director, please..

    <i>Ah.''</i>

    Yooil turned his eyes to the camera with an awkward smile.

 Chapter 100:

    Chapter 100:

    "Yeah, that''s right. Director Jang once said that it seems like Yooil feels sick if he rests."

    Yooil, who was getting his makeup done, was startled by the makeup director''sment.

    "Surely not."

    "Come on. Doesn''t seem like surely not'' when you''re already entering a new project~"

    "Oh! Really? But you havent even finished shooting the drama yet!"

    Yooil managed an awkward smile while listening to the makeup director and the staff chatting.

    "Yooil is really good at Shasta Live too, isn''t he?"

    "Oh! Yes, right. I fell asleep watching Yooil''s live yesterday!"

    "Huh? He did a live yesterday too?"

    Min Woojin, standing behind, quietly nodded to the makeup director''s words, his face slightly downcast.

    ""

    Han Yooil subtly avoided Min Woojin''s gaze.

    After receiving the call from Min Woojin the previous night, Yooil had quickly ended the live broadcast. He couldn''t make his one and only manager ufortable.

    "Oh, your fans must really love it~! Oh, could you lift your head a little, please, Mr. Actor?"

    Even amidst the conversation, the makeup director professionally applied makeup, and Yooil obediently lifted his head.

    The makeup was more borate than usual.

    "We have to make our actor shine the brightest at the awards ceremony~"

    Indeed.

    Today''s schedule was the Blue Dragon Film Awards.

    It was Yooil''s first such hectic end-of-the-year, and Min Woojin consoled (or warned) him that it would only get busier.

    Then, the makeup room door opened, and a director with a camera entered.

    Recognizing the familiar face, Yooil realized it was JJ Entertainment''s in-house production content.

    "It''s been a while, Director."

    "I''m here to shoot <Behind the Scene>."

    Hearing the title, Yooil remembered receiving a brief briefing about it.

    "Hello, Han Yooil here."

    "Oh, no need to be so formal. Just speakfortably. Maybe talk about today''s makeup concept or outfit."

    "Um"

    Yooil, who had been silently looking at the mirror, slowly started speaking.

    "Firstly, I changed my hairstyle a bit from thest acting awards. This time, I swept all the bangs back."

    "Yes! We aimed for a gentle yet ssic look! Doesn''t it suit him well?"

    A makeup team member yfully sprayed makeup fixer on Yooil''s face while chatting cheerfully. The makeup director teasingly added.

    "Yooil suits anything, right?"

    And then, he got into the van and headed to the awards ceremony. The red carpet now felt quite familiar.

    "Over here~!"

    "Kyaa!"

    The shouts of journalists and fans mingled together. Yooil walked the carpet with a rxed pace, waving to the crowd.

    Afterward, Yooil went to the waiting room and greeted Hwang Yiwon and Gu Chanik. It had been months since they had met after the Berlin Film Festival.

    "Actors, please take your seats here."

    Yooil looked around the busy hall preparing for the awards ceremony.

    The stage, after the rehearsal, was filled with tension. Actors began to fill the seats one by one.

    It was then that Yooil, sitting with Hwang Yiwon and Gu Chanik, was greeted.

    "How have you been?"

    "!"

    Yooil turned his head. It was the seat reserved for the team of <The Last Diner>.

    Seeing the owner of the voice, a smile spread across Yooil''s face.

    "Senior!"

    Lee Jongsun, wearing a deep purple dress that covered her arms, looked at him with warm eyes.

    How have you been?

    "I''ve been well, of course."

    "Are you shooting a drama these days?"

    Lee Jongsun nodded with a slightly surprised face to Yooil''s question.

    "Yooil,e here."

    At that moment, Hwang Yiwon, who was already seated, called Yooil over. As a nominee for the Best New Actor award for his role as Sooil'' in <The Mysterious Garden>, Yooil had to sit next to the <The Mysterious Garden> team.

    "Go on."

    "Yes, Senior. I''ll contact you."

    Lee Jongsun watched Yooil take his seat for a long time.

    She had been ying the role of a grandmother in a daily drama recently. It wasn''t a particrly significant role, but Jongsun was living each day with gratitude. Just the fact that she could continue acting brought her joy.

    A significant influence on her not giving up on acting was her participation in <The Last Diner>.

    <i>And that child.''</i>

    A gentle smile appeared on Lee Jongsun''s lips.

    <i>I knew he would do well.''</i>

    Of course, he was still an actor with a long way to go.

    <i>I never expected I would be here.''</i>

    With <The Last Diner> nominated for the Best Picture, the lead actors were once again in the spotlight. Especially since it was her first significant role in amercial film, the interest in Lee Jongsun, who was nominated for the Best New Actor award at the age of 70, was intense.

    <i>Life is full of surprises.''</i>

    Lee Jongsun ced her left hand over her heart. Ridiculously, her heart was racing, she thought.

    "Wee to the Blue Dragon Film Awards, the greatest film festival with the filmmakers of Korea I''m Jung Hyeyeon."

    Lee Jongsun turned her gaze towards the stage.

    And so, the Blue Dragon Film Awards began.

    * * *

    [@HYul_0402 So nervous]

    [@Wjfkrddyjh omgomg]

    [@jinnnny My heart''s pounding]

    Min Woojin, who was browsing BlueChat, bit his nails and turned his head away. He was watching the stage through arge monitor set up in the waiting room.

    It was time to announce the Best New Actor award.

    The faces of the five nominees appeared on the giant screen next to the stage, each reflecting a mix of tension and excitement.

    <i>Sigh It''s okay, even if he doesn''t win''</i>

    <i>No way!! Who else but Yooil would receive the award!''</i>

    Alone in his hot and cold turmoil, Min Woojin sped and unsped his sweaty hands.

    And now, the winner is

    !''

    The Blue Dragon Film Award for Best New Actor goes to

    After a brief silence, the name of the winner was announced.

    Han Yooil of <The Mysterious Garden>. Congrattions!

    Min Woojin, without a thought, sprang up from his seat.

    "Wow!!!"

    A Blue Dragon! My actor winning Best New Actor at the Blue Dragon Film Awards!

    Noticing the nces from other nominees'' managers, he sat back down but couldn''t hide his trembling excitement.

    <i>Right! The recording!''</i>

    Btedly taking out his phone, Min Woojin began to record a video.

    His hands were trembling as he sat in the waiting room filming, but Han Yooil himself was calm andposed.

    Both <The Last Diner> and <The Mysterious Garden> were like gifts to me. I sincerely thank Director Yoo Jaeho and Director Gu Chanik for trusting me and giving me these opportunities.''

    Min Woojin filmed Yooil''s face on the screen with a proud expression.

    <i>He''s be quite the eloquent speaker after just one award.''</i>

    Min Woojin captured Yooil''s smooth eptance speech with pride.

    * * *

    <i>I was too nervous.''</i>

    Han Yooil bit his lip. He couldn''t even remember what he said.

    He looked down at the trophy in his hand.

    <i>Do I really deserve this?''</i>

    The walk back from the stage to his seat felt incredibly long. The weight of the trophy felt unusually heavy.

    "Congrattions."

    "Congrattions, Yooil."

    Yooil received congrattions from Gu Chanik and Hwang Yiwon as he sat down.

    "You''re the best~!"

    Hearing a shout from a distance, Yooil turned his head to see Director Yoo Jae-ho waving enthusiastically. Han Yooil returned the gesture with a smile.

    The Blue Dragon Film Awards was just beginning.

    Following the Best New Actor award, the Best New Actress award was announced.

    With each nominee''s name called, cheers and apuse filled the hall. Yooil pped even harder when Lee Jongsun''s name was announced.

    "The Best New Actress award goes to"

    Among the 20-something actors, Lee Jongsun sat with a tense face.

    "Lee Jongsun of <The Last Diner>!"

    A thunderous cheer and apuse resonated throughout the hall.

    Lee Jongsun blinked in disbelief, not expecting her name to be called.

    That''s when Han Yooil stood up.

    He reached out his hand to Lee Jongsun, who was seated behind him.

    Like in a trance, Lee Jongsun took Yooil''s hand and stood up.

    <i>!''</i>

    The camera captured their moment together, and the cheers grew even louder.

    "Senior."

    Jongsun lifted her head to look at Yooil. His sparkling eyes were looking at her.

    While helping her up, Han Yooil whispered softly.

    "Thank you for your wonderful performance."

    Tears threatened to spill from Lee Jongsun''s eyes, but there was no time to linger.

    She slowly walked towards the stage.

    "It''s quite embarrassing to receive a New Actress award at such an age."

    Lightughter erupted from the audience.

    "I never thought I''d receive an award on a stage like this in my life. It''s been 40 years since I started acting even then, I jumped into acting quitete."

    But as Lee Jongsun continued, people''s eyes began to moisten.

    Acting.

    It was the empathy and respect for an actor who hade this far driven by nothing but passion.

    "And Han Yooil."

    Yooil, who had been watching Jongsun on stage with a bright face, was taken aback.

    "He thanked me for my wonderful performance but I would like to return those words to him."

    Lee Jongsun looked intently at Yooil and continued.

    "Thank you."

    It was a moment at the Blue Dragon Film Awards that nobody could deny was one of the most memorable.

    * * *

    Director Yoo Jaeho of <The Last Diner> wins Best New Director Award: "I''ll work even harder in the future"

    Director Gu Chanik wins Blue Dragon Film Award for Best Director after 17 years''

    Han Yooil grabs another trophy at the Blue Dragon Film Awards following KVN Acting Awards "Neer of the Year"

    Yooil''s fans were in a festive mood because of these achievements.

    Can you believe he won two neer awards in just a few days I feel so proud

    Same here  I''m so happy

    I love Yool''s filmography, he''s so devoted to his fans, and he seems so healthy in interviews, just love him

    Lee Jongsun bing the oldest Best New Actress winner also became a topic of discussion.

    [Blue Dragon ZOOM] Han Yooil and Lee Jongsun A Beautiful Friendship Beyond Age

    A 70s Actresss First Neer Award Thank you for the wonderful acting''

    The YooilYooilHae'' YouTube channel posted every moment of Yooil from the awards ceremony. The videos quickly became trending as short-form content with an enormous number of views.

    Yooil seemed happier for others than when he received his own award

    Almost cried listening to Lee Jongsun''s eptance speech

    Look at Yooil''s red eyes

    So touching

    * * *

    As the end of the year passed and the new year approached,

    ""

    Director Jang Jaeyi looked up. Yooil was looking at her with a clear, bright face.

    The drama they had just started filming and the preparations for the y that were about to begin.

    Even a cursory nce revealed a schedule that was no joke.

    Jang Jaeyi sighed and looked at Yooil.

    "You remember we''re preparing an offline fan meeting early next year, right?"

    "Of course."

    Yooil hadn''t forgotten. It was an event he had been looking forward to for a long time.

    Jang Jaeyi, with a spark in her eyes, said,

    "So, I was thinking, maybe we should prepare a dance routine or something like that for the fans."

    Jang Jaeyi spoke cheerfully and then turned her tablet towards Yooil.

    Seeing the video on the tablet, Yooil couldn''t believe his eyes.

    "Director, this is"

    Music flowed from the tablet.

    And then a bright and bubbly dance routine appeared. Yooil was speechless.

    [Pop pop pop pop! Exploding lovely heart!]

    [Boom boom boom boom! Refreshing lemon candy!]

    It was literally a dance routine bursting with freshness. As Yooil watched the video nkly, Brion spoke calmly.

    This is LEMON CANDY'' by the newly debuted girl group, Purple Kiss. An excellent choice.

    Yooil thought quietly.

    <i>Do not disturb mode.''</i>

 Chapter 101:

    Chapter 101:

    Seeing Yooil''s dumbfounded face, Director Jang Jaeyi yfully wrinkled her nose.

    "It wasn''t my decision. It was a private vote held in the fan caf Look here, Yooil."

    What Jang Jaeyi handed him was the result of an anonymous poll on the fan caf.

    [ Which idol dance do you want Actor Yooil to perform? ]

    LEMON CANDY'' was the clear winner, with ck Sea''s Shining Night'' in second ce. Yooil''s eyes wavered as he saw the result.

    "If it''s too much pressure, you don''t have to do it."

    Fans might be a bit disappointed, though.

    At Jang Jaeyi''s words, Yooil immediately responded.

    "I''ll do it."

    Having seen the poll results, he felt he couldn''t refuse.

    Even though he wasn''t sure why they wanted to see him do that.

    After mulling over the two songs, Yooil decided to dance the highlight parts of both tracks, which had received the most votes.

    Min Woojin, who had been watching Yooil, spoke up.

    "Yooil, how about contacting Harang?"

    Jang Jaeyi, who overheard Woojin''s whisper, lit up.

    And so, Yooil, in need of an expert in idol dancing,'' picked up his phone.

    Hey, Harang!

    A cheerful voice came from the other end. After Yooil exined the situation, Harang seemed surprised.

    Huh? You''re dancing to our song at the fan meeting? Shining Night''?

    "Yeah."

    Harang quickly said he would get permission from his manager and invited Yooil to visit his agency''s practice room. ck Sea was off-season, so it was possible.

    And so, Yooilmitted to learning the dance in a crash course, timed for his fan meeting in mid-January.

    Before he began learning the dance from Harang, Yooil practiced a bit with Brion''s help. Fortunately, due to the conceptual choreography of both songs, following the highlight parts wasn''t too difficult at least, that''s what Brion said. However, having tried it himself, Yooil couldn''t agree.

    <i>This is considered not too difficult?''</i>

    Once again, Yooil realized that idol dancing was not his forte.

    * * *

    "Mng~ Auntie is here~"

    Jin Hayoung entered the apartment with a bright smile.

    She was there to spend the New Year with Yooil. While Yooil was struggling with his dance, the New Year had arrived.

    "!"

    The puppy, who had been joyfully running around the living room eating snacks, quickly hid under the sofa as Jin Hayoung entered.

    "Aigoo."

    Jin Hayoungughed, a mix of frustration and amusement, as she looked at Mng hiding under the sofa. The dog''s face, full of wariness, was pitiful yet cute.

    "It''s better than before, though. Last time, he was drooling and panting, right?"

    "Maybe because we go out for walks and he sees other people more often."

    Jin Hayoung''s lips curved into a smile involuntarily. Yooil, speaking proudly, was quite endearing. Despite being all grown up, when he smiled like that, she could still see the child he once was.

    A delicious aroma snapped Jin Hayoung out of her reminiscence.

    "Uh, Yooil. Did you cook?"

    "I just prepared the sauce. Now we just need to boil the pasta."

    "I thought you said you''d order everything"

    But Jin Hayoung''s reproach trailed off before she could finish. She was pleased with the menu.

    Soy cream pasta.

    A sauce made not too rich by adding suitable vegetables like mushrooms and broli and just the right amount of peperoncino,plemented by the sweet and savory taste of onions sauted for a long time. It was a dish Yooil often made, especially for Jin Hayoung, who didn''t eat meat.

    "When did you find the time to do all this~ You''re so busy."

    "Because it''s been a while since we had a meal together."

    Soon, the pasta was ready. The pasta, garnished with basil leaves, looked quite impressive.

    As Jin Hayoung twirled the pasta on her fork and took a generous bite, a look of satisfaction bloomed on her face.

    "It tastes even better after so long."

    Yooil also nodded after tasting the pasta. He had been worried since he hadn''t cooked since hisst appearance on a variety show, but this was a decent effort.

    After a while of silently enjoying their pasta, Jin Hayoung cautiously started speaking.

    "Yooil."

    Yooil looked up.

    <i>?''</i>

    Her voice, usually steady, seemed to waver slightly, causing Yooil to tense up.

    "Auntie, is something wrong?"

    "No, it''s not that"

    "Are you not feeling well?"

    "No, that''s not it either!"

    However, Jin Hayoung continued to dart her gaze around, seemingly unsure of what to do. As Yooil kept asking seriously, Jin Hayoung''s face suddenly flushed red.

    "Well uh, that is I''ve "

    As Yooil''s concern grew, Brion''s voice echoed in his head.

    Analysis of Jin Hayoung''s tone indicates 45% nervousness, 34.3% excitement, 18.6% tion, others

    A possibility dawned on Yooil.

    <i>Could it be?''</i>

    "Auntie are you seeing someone?"

    "Pfft-!"

    Jin Hayoung, who was drinking water, spit it out. After stammering for a while, she finally admitted.

    "I''ve met a kind and nice person. It''s been about fifteen days."

    Yooil looked at Jin Hayoung with an indescribable feeling.

    "Auntie."

    "Ugh, why."

    Avoiding eye contact, Yooil showed a smile to his auntie.

    "Why are you smiling like that, it''s funny!"

    "Because I''m happy."

    "You always say the strangest things."

    As Jin Hayoung muttered, feeling embarrassed, Yooil''s expression turned serious.

    "Honestly, I think I''m happier about this than receiving the award."

    "What? Oh my, you''re not short of words!"

    Jin Hayoungughed as if it was absurd, but it wasn''t aplete lie.

    The award was more of a bewildering and somewhat scary event than a purely joyful one.

    Yooil watched as Jin Hayoung''s cheeks turned warm.

    <i>That''s a new expression.''</i>

    It was the most vibrant face he had seen Jin Hayoung wear so far.

    After starting acting, Yooil knew his life had changed. But now, his auntie was also stepping into a new phase of her life.

    "Auntie. Please introduce him to meter. I''d like to meet him."

    "What?! Oh, um okay."

    Jin Hayoung''s tone was somewhat uneasy, and as Yooil narrowed his eyes, she readily confessed.

    "Actually I haven''t told him that you''re my nephew yet"

    Yooil''s hand, holding the fork with pasta, froze mid-air.

    "Auntie, am I an embarrassment to you?"

    "Oh, don''t be ridiculous! Of course not!"

    ""

    "It''s just I haven''t done much for you, and I didn''t want it to seem like I was showing off"

    ""

    "Yooil! I said it''s not like that!"

    Yooil felt an unexpected sense of hurt from this revtion.

    * * *

    The next day, after finishing the morning walk with Mng, Yooil headed to NVB''s practice studio.

    "Harang hyung!"

    As soon as he got out of the car, Kim Harang''s lively blonde hair was the first thing Yooil saw. Right behind him, a head of ck hair also came into view.

    "Oh? Ji Eunho is here too?"

    "I don''t have a schedule this afternoon."

    Ji Eunho looked at Yooil with an awkward face. Although they asionallymunicated since their time on <Sing in High School>, they had not met in person.

    <i>I didn''t expect to meet like this.''</i>

    "Come this way! Here! This is our practice studio!"

    Kim Harang, more energetic than usual, guided Yooil through his agency, showing him around.

    Upon entering ck Sea''s practice studio, Yooil was a bit surprised.

    <i>It''s spacious.''</i>

    While JJ Entertainment''s practice studio was by no means small, it felt quaintpared to NVB''s. Yooil curiously examined the corners of the practice studio, and Harang shouted cheerfully.

    "Alright~ shall we start!"

    Kim Harang ced a small camera he had received from the staff on the table. It took a while to adjust the angle so that all three of them could be captured well.

    The reason for the camera was to document their meeting in a vlog-style video. It was NVB''s idea when Yooil first mentioned he wasing for practice.

    "Oh! It''s on!"

    As the camera turned on, the real practice began.

    "Let''s start~"

    Yooil thought that with Kim Harang, the practice might be a bit rxed.

    He turned the music up, but soon realized that rxed practice'' was just his wishful thinking.

    "Ouch, your right foot shoulde out like this at shimmering starlight''! Again!"

    "Imagine drawing a circle with your elbow! Stretch out more. Again!"

    "No! The angle here needs to be sharper! Again!"

    Harang seemed more ustomed to a Spartan-style training than expected.

    Han Yooil, drenched in sweat, gazed nkly at Kim Harang and Ji Eunho. Even in their loose grey and charcoal-colored training outfits, their dance lines were evident. He thought he knew the choreography, but seeing them dance in person was different. It was fascinating how each movement and angle gave apletely different feel.

    <i>But I get why I''m doing this.''</i>

    Why was Ji Eunho participating in all this alongside them?

    Just then, Ji Eunho spoke up at the perfect timing.

    "Let''s take a break."

    As Ji Eunho suggested, Kim Harang nodded. Ji Eunho looked a bit tired, unlike Harang who seemed to have endless energy regardless of the sweat.

    While Harang went to the restroom, Ji Eunho said softly.

    "It''s tough, right?"

    "It''s hard, but it''s also fun."

    Yooil''s reply was sincere. Ji Eunho nodded, then suggested.

    "Harang is a good teacher, but since he''s so skilled himself, it can be overwhelming for beginners."

    "That''s true."

    "Like the choreography earlier, instead of thinking of each movement separately, try to feel them flowing into each other."

    Ji Eunho pinpointed parts of the choreography where Yooil had struggled and continued.

    "Try to rx your body overall. It seems like your shoulders are a bit tense."

    <i>Oh.''</i>

    Following his advice, Yooil moved his body and was surprised. The advice was quite helpful.

    "I didn''t start with dancing either. I had a lot of difficulties due to dance practices initially."

    It seemed to be wisdom born out of experience.

    "Shall we start again~!" Harang cheerfully shouted as he re-entered the practice studio.

    Yooil, having deliberately set Brion to Do Not Disturb'' mode, followed Kim Harang and Ji Eunho''s lead and moved his body ordingly.

    Finally, after three hours in the practice studio, Yooil managed to memorize the highlight choreography.

    The trio sat side by side in front of the camera, sipping their vitamin drinks. Although sitting in sweat-soaked clothes wasn''t the most pleasant, they had to wrap up with a closing statement for the PPL.

    Luckily, the air conditioning was strong enough to provide some relief.

    They chatted casually, filling the audio, and soon looked for the right timing to conclude.

    "Thanks to Yooil, the practice went smoother than expected."

    "It''s all thanks to your good teaching."

    <i>That should do it.''</i>

    Just as Yooil responded to Ji Eunho''sment, aiming for a warm ending, Harang suddenly blurted out while drinking his vitamin drink.

    "Hyung, my sister is super jealous of me, you know?"

    "Hm?"

    Yooil tried to recall.

    She''s a grad student, right?''

    Yooil and Harang had first met when Harang was visiting his sister at Wolmyeong University.

    However, what came out of Harang''s mouth was unexpected.

    "My sister is a huge fan of yours, Yooil hyung."

    "?"

    "The other day, when I went home after a long time, the first thing she said when she saw my face was that she must go to see the y you''re in, Yooil hyung."

    Harang began toment how his fans, who would be watching the video in a few weeks, would react. As Yooil pondered what expression to make, Harang grinned and continued.

    "Anyway, the conclusion is, Yooil hyung is the best!"

    "Huh?"

    Kim Harang started the closing statement by endlessly throwing double thumbs-up and hearts toward the camera. It looked quite bizarre from the side, but somehow it seemed okay on camera. Yooil watched Harang and the camera alternately with curious eyes.

    "Please give lots of love to Yooil hyung~!"

    "Fighting, Yooil!"

    "Thank you, ck Pearl fans!"

    Watching Han Yooil and the two ck Sea members energetically wrap up, the staff member smiled contentedly.

    They knew thebination of Han Yooil and Kim Harang was good, but the addition of Ji Eunho made the picture even more appealing.

    <i>I bet it''ll be worth watching when the video is uploaded.''</i>

    * * *

    Meanwhile, the team of Shadows of Faith decided to take a short break at the start of the year. However, Yooil couldn''t fully enjoy even that short break.

    Because the first reading and practice session for <Ordinary Family> was scheduled.

 Chapter 102:

    Chapter 102:

    Yooil made his way to the practice studio in Seocho-gu. As soon as he entered, he was greeted by Director Kim Juwon.

    "Yooil~ How have you been?"

    Director Kim Juwon was still wearing his usual beanie.

    ording to the staff, Director Kim Juwon owned multiple identical beanies. The staff whispered as if they were sharing a secret.

    When we get into the serious practice period, he bes very sensitive. It''s like a beanie and always wears simr clothes Maybe it''s a kind of superstition or something?

    <i>It seems like he just wears them because they''refortable.''</i>

    Whatever the reason, the beanie had be his iconic fashion item.

    After exchanging greetings with Director Kim Juwon, Yooil took his seat and waited for the other actors.

    The main cast of <Ordinary Family> consisted of three actors: Han Yooil, Lee Soyun, and Kwon Mija. Lee Soyun was known as a serious actor'', having performed in theater since her twenties and recently started appearing in dramas. Kwon Mija was a veteran actress, famous for her acting skills as much as her extensive career.

    As the door to the practice room opened, Yooil stood up immediately.

    The person who entered was the actor Yooil was most looking forward to meeting in this y, Kwon Mija. Her grey hair neatlybed, she entered the practice room and noticed Yooil in the center.

    "It''s been a while, ma''am."

    "Oh, just call me senior'', that''s fine."

    Kwon Mija and Yooil knew each other. They had worked together just a few months ago in <The Sun and the Moon>.

    "Yes, I remember Congrattions on your award. I watched it on TV; your acting was good."

    "Thank you, senior."

    A faint anticipation appeared on Kwon Mija''s face.

    <i>I was curious.''</i>

    She hadn''t been able to see Yooil''s acting up close during the shooting of <The Sun and the Moon>.

    Most of her scenes were shot inside the pce set, so the days she saw Yooil''s face during the shooting period could be counted on one hand. Only now did she feel like they were really going to act together.

    "Well, we will see each other often this time."

    Then, the practice room door opened again. Short ck hair and monolid eyes caught attention.

    "Hellooo~!"

    The girl who entered cheerfully looked at Yooil and Kwon Mija in the center of the practice room.

    <i>Kwon Mija senior looks happy?''</i>

    Lee Soyun, who had already performed in a y with Kwon Mija, was a bit surprised. Although Kwon Mija was gentle, she wasn''t someone you could easily approach.

    Was she more yful than expected?

    Quicklyposing her thoughts, Lee Soyun wore a full smile on her face.

    "Seniooooor!"

    "Ah, Soyun is here."

    Lee Soyun, with a coquettish voice, ran and hugged Kwon Mija. Their interaction resembled that of a grandmother and granddaughter, just like the roles they were about to portray.

    "I''m Han Yooil."

    "And I''m Lee Soyun!"

    After a brief greeting, Lee Soyun looked at Yooil with a curious eye.

    Lee Soyun was intrigued by Han Yooil.

    She knew he was a rising star. And with such poprity, there were always rumors. But he wasn''t particrly notorious. Even when she asked around, few people knew him well, making her curiosity harder to satisfy.

    <i>I didn''t expect him to do theater.''</i>

    It wasn''t unheard of for actors famous in the theater scene to receive acim in dramas or movies, but it was rare for rising stars to participate in theater.

    As the white practice room filled with a simr yet distinct sense of anticipation, Kim Juwon opened his mouth.

    All the actors are here, so I guess we can start soon.

    After briefly exining the y and the direction of the production, he pped his hands loudly once and shrugged her shoulders.

    Let''s start the reading.

    Simultaneously, the expression on Kim Juwon''s face, which had been rtively soft and malleable until a moment ago, sharpened instantly. The atmosphere among the staff also noticeably shifted.

    <i>It begins.</i>

    Yooil slowly opened his eyes.

    Jisoo, do the cleaning today.

    Ah, got it~

    With the opening lines from Kwon Mija and Lee Soyun signaling the start of the y, the serious reading session began.

    * * *

    Originally, <Ordinary Family> was a y with a strong genre identity, but after a few performances, its fantasy elements intensified.

    <Ordinary Family> was set in a distant future. The air, contaminated with radiation, was unlivable for people, and those with wealth and power left for others. Only a handful of survivors, who had anticipated the future, managed to preserve their lives in pre-built underground bunkers.

    Then one day, while postponing the cleaning of the bunker entrance, a girl identally encountered a humanoid exploration robot.

    The girl, who met an android robot for the first time, was greatly surprised.

    Ah!

    She even fell on her buttocks.

    Initially, Jisoo, the girl, thought he was a living person, not a robot, and was confused about what to do.

    What should I do? Could he really be a human?

    And then, Jisoos monologue begins. On the actual stage, this would be staged using lighting and props to reflect a shback.

    <i>Ive always been curious about the outside world.</i>

    Jisoo, born in the bunker, had never been outside. Her parents had left the bunker to find food and never returned. Thats also why her grandmother was overprotective of her.

    But once, just once, the girl saw an outsider.

    That person was a woman, balding so severely her age was indiscernible, her skin filled with pus.

    Uh Uh.

    The woman, peering through the hazy bunker window, could only make a small groaning noise. That was the only sound she could make.

    Jisoo didnt hesitate. The bunker was made of multiple steel doors to block external air and disinfect. Jisoo quickly opened the triple-filtered doors of the bunker, and after being disinfected, the woman was able to enter.

    That day, the grandmother didnt scold the girl. Instead, she handed the woman the coolest water avable.

    The next day, the woman was dead. Without even telling her name.

    Jisoo rolls her eyes. She cautiously nces at the robot and then, with trembling hands, takes the microphone installed in the bunker.

    Excuse me.

    And after some contemtion, she tentatively asks,

    Are you a refugee?

    After the radiation contamination progressed, humans exposed to the atmosphere without any protective shield met their fate within a week at most, regardless of any treatment or food consumed.

    Some were forced outside due to their homes copsing or running out of food, but there were also a few who chose to leave the bunkers of their own volition.

    The former were called refugees.

    "Or perhaps an ascetic?"

    Thetter were called ascetics.

    The outsider, upon hearing Jisoo''s question, looked at her with an inscrutable face.

    Unknowingly, Jisoo swallowed her saliva.

    "Yes. I am, an ascetic."

    * * *

    The artistic director looked around at the actors engaged in the reading with an intrigued expression.

    <Ordinary Family> was a y that had been recognized for its experimental and unique stage since its premiere about 20 years ago. It had been a topic of discussion due to the design created by a then very young famous artist.

    Anyway, the artistic director had ns to create the stage in a different direction from the previous stage designs. Although the general design and the parts that needed key mechanical devices had already been decided upon after consulting with the director, the finer details had not yet been determined.

    What troubled him until thest moment was the outside world, the part beyond the bunker. Although a dystopian world could be created using screens or lighting, this time he wanted to present the outside world more distinctly in the y.

    However, it was not feasible to use expensive equipment like the LED ICVFX (In-Camera Visual Effects) used in Hollywood movie sets.

    It was while the artistic director was deep in thought that it happened.

    "Yes. I am, an ascetic."

    The moment Yooil delivered his first line.

    Precisely, the moment he moved, the artistic directors eyes lit up.

    Han Yooil moved slowly. One step, half a step. And then another step, half a step.

    The artistic director, following his movements with his eyes, suddenly had a realization.

    <i>!''</i>

    Thats it.

    Yooil''s movement now. If we create the world outside the bunker as a regr spiral path

    <i>We could solve the space issue as well.''</i>

    With this unexpected solution in mind, the artistic director started to run simtions in his head and began scribbling notes frantically on the empty margins of his notebook.

    * * *

    Meanwhile, Jisoo, realizing that the being she let into the bunker was a robot, became annoyed.

    "What, you''re not a human? Why did you lie about being an ascetic?"

    "I am an android created for exploration purposes, Ascetic B-234."

    "What kind of name is that for an exploration robot? Is that really true?"

    As Jisoo spoke irritably, the robot, as if it had been waiting, spoke up.

    "Exploration, start- 9914th day."

    The robot continued, staring straight into Jisoos eyes.

    "Current time, local time 16:34. Lifeform, discovered."

    Its eyes were devoid of life.

    Lee Soyun, acting opposite Yooil, racked her brain each time he delivered a line.

    <i>What is it?''</i>

    Each word had a subtly different pitch. The intervals between words were also unusual. It was a peculiar way of speaking. Yet, it wasnt strange or awkward in its execution.

    <Ordinary Family>s script did not specify a particr manner of speaking. Since proper rehearsals had not yet begun, all aspects of the performance were the actors own interpretations.

    <i>How did he do that?!''</i>

    She was overwhelmingly curious!

    Lee Soyun''s eyes sparkled with curiosity, a trait she never allowed to wane. As soon as it was break time, a white arm suddenly appeared in front of Yooil. It was because Lee Soyun had firmly grabbed Han Yooil''s arm.

    "Do you have a reference for this character? How did you decide on the way of speaking? Do you practice alone?"

    Lee Soyun looked directly at Yooil with fiery eyes. Observing this, Kim Juwon quietly smiled.

    <i>Good.''</i>

    She started to anticipate the synergy that the three actors would show. It was a moment that proved she had chosen the right people.

    * * *

    That night.

    Han Yooil sat in his room for background immersion.

    Although he had prepared for his acting through background immersion even when auditioning for <Ordinary Family>, after the first reading, Yooil had be acutely aware of his shorings.

    <i>I want to do better.''</i>

    That was why Yooil repeatedly went through the background immersion for the same scene.

    Starting the background immersion for Chapter 1.

    Empty streets. A ghost town where dust swirled. Buildings lost to humanity and in ruin. Corroded cars, signs with faded letters.

    Dust had taken the ce where life once thrived.

    It was a street he had walked countless times.

    Yooil slowly walked down the street, clearing his mind of all distractions.

    Exploration Day 9914.''

    With each step,yers of emotions and thoughts were peeled away.

    As Yooil methodically surveyed his surroundings with dry eyes, the voice of Brion echoed in his head.

    Heart rate decreased by 18bpm. Body temperature dropped by 2.1C. Oxygen saturation at 93.5%. Warning: Hypoxia. Terminating background immersion''

    The next moment, Yooil staggered due to a sudden wave of dizziness. His vision started to blur. Dizziness overcame him, a predictable oue considering he had been in background immersion longer than usual.

    <i>I''ll be fine after a little rest.''</i>

    Yooil let his body rx, waiting for the surrounding background to fade away.

    <i>?''</i>

    But soon, he looked around in panic. The background immersion didn''t fade away as it usually did.

    "Brion?"

    For the first time in a long while, Yooil called out to Brion with his voice.

    But there was no response.

 Chapter 103:

    Chapter 103:

    "Brion."

    Yooil called out once more for Brion.

    Still, there was no response.

    Yooil''s mind raced.

    <i>Could this be a dream?''</i>

    There had never been an instance where he did not immediately wake up after background immersion had stopped. Naturally, he had never transitioned straight into a dream either. But if not, it was a situation hard toprehend.

    Yooil began to slowly walk. He started navigating through the ruins of copsed buildings.

    <i>It feels like Ive stepped right into a movie.''</i>

    As he wandered aimlessly, he stumbled upon a building that seemed rtively intact from the outside.

    Wondering if it might open, he pushed the iron door, and it creaked open.

    <i>!''</i>

    Yooil looked around the interior with widened eyes. Surprisingly, the inside resembled an ordinary house.

    Theyout was very simr to the house he lived in as a child. The size of the kitchen and living room, even the angle at which the sofa and TV were ced, were familiar.

    <i>No, it''s not just familiar.''</i>

    Yooil''s expression hardened as he surveyed the house.

    <i>Could it be?''</i>

    Without realizing it, Yooil''s hand reached for the doorknob of a white door.

    Part of him felt it might be better not to open it, but the door was already half open.

    As the door opened, Yooil felt warm and humid air hit his face.

    "!!!"

    And the moment he faced the scenery beyond the door, his eyes quivered.

    He saw trees and grasses that one would expect in a botanical garden. Giant, spiky palm trees and tall green stems with red flowers that resembled birds of paradise bloomed amongst the dense leaves that barely let sunlight through.

    Yooil''s hand began to tremble as he saw the rainforest situated beyond the door.

    <i>What is this''</i>

    Yooil covered his mouth with one hand. His fingertips were as cold as ice. His breathing became morebored.

    <i>It''s a dream. This has to be a dream.''</i>

    He thought he needed to breathe properly, but he couldn''t catch his breath.

    As Yooil couldn''t take his eyes off the sight beyond the door,

    a loud noise was heard.

    Bang!

    It was a sharp sound that seemed to echo through the entire jungle.

    This can''t be real. This isn''t reality.

    But even as Yooil tried to convince himself several times, the sound of gunfire resounded several times.

    Soon, figures with guns appeared. Mafia wearing ck clothes covering their entire bodies appeared, chuckling amongst the jungle. Among them were a middle-aged American with a camera around his neck and two East Asians, seen from the back. The mafia surrounded the East Asians and forced them to kneel with guns pointed at their heads.

    "One gringo and two Xing lings"

    "Just when we thought some bugs had crawled in-"

    The mafia, annoyed, tossed aside the camera that hung around the American''s neck and forced the two people to kneel.

    "It''s because of bastards like you, babbling about the environment and all, that our job almost got messed up."

    "You get what Im saying, you filthy chinks?"

    The mocking voices grew closer. The blurry figures gradually became clearer.

    Han Yooil barely managed to lift his head. A strange yet familiar back caught his eye amongst the mafia.

    "!"

    Even though he couldn''t see their faces, he knew.

    These two people were the ones closest to him.

    <i>No.''</i>

    Yooil moved his frozen feet. But no matter how fast he ran, the distance did not close.

    "Mom-"

    As Yooil''s mouth opened, another gunshot rang out. This time it wasn''t just to intimidate.

    The three people standing in the center fell one after another, like discarded scarecrows.

    Yooil watched with a numb expression.

    It was the nightmare he had struggled so hard to escape from, the one he had finally left behind.

    Due to excessive use of background immersion,'' sleep'' has been activated.

    It was the first time Yooil had ever been so relieved to hear Brion''s voice.

    Terminating background immersion''.

    * * *

    "Ah."

    Yooil woke up with a splitting headache.

    Mr. Yooil.

    After regaining some of his senses, Yooil felt a numbness in his right arm. Turning his stiff neck to the right, he saw Mng lying against his arm.

    <i>''</i>

    Yooil gently lifted the puppy''s face.

    Mmhm.

    Mng iled its paws in the air and then blinked its eyes.

    As Yooil watched the puppy''s ck eyes, he slowly got up from his seat. Then he went to the bathroom to wash the tears that had dried on his face.

    Are you alright, Mr. Yooil?

    <i>No.''</i>

    Of course, he wasn''t okay.

    It didn''t just feel like a dream. Every step felt as heavy as a sponge soaked in water, and his muscles were sore from the tension.

    <i>''</i>

    When Yooil didn''t respond, Brion continued.

    Excessive use of background immersion'' can lead to fatigue, hypoxia, headaches, chest pains, and can induce sleep''.

    Brion continued exining, but Yooil wasn''t really listening.

    In short, the more he used background immersion, the more likely he was to not be able to exit it immediately and fall into sleep'' instead.

    When you fall into sleep'' due to background immersion, Brion cannot intervene in any way.

    Yooil clenched his teeth.

    He knew it was a dream.

    <i>Shit.''</i>

    But he couldn''t calm down.

    * * *

    Yooil ended up skipping his morning exercise.

    After barely finishing a walk with the puppy, Yooil received a call from Min Woojin and went down to the parking lot.

    "Huh?"

    Min Woojin looked at Yooil with wide eyes.

    "Is something wrong?"

    "No."

    Yooil managed to force a smile.

    "Just had a bad dream."

    "Ah! A nightmare."

    While rummaging through his pocket, Min Woojin handed Yooil a piece of chocte.

    "I get nightmares often too. Just the other day, I dreamt I waste for a schedule and got a serious scolding from the PDs Ugh."

    Watching Min Woojin genuinely shudder, Yooil gave a smallugh.

    "Still, it''s a relief. A dream is just a dream."

    "That''s right."

    Yooil murmured while looking out the window.

    "A dream is just a dream, after all."

    From a very young age, he had realized that the human brain could create scenes so intricate and horrifying, even if it had never witnessed them.

    He was only ten when his parents died, and he was at school. Of course, all the scenes Yooil had seen, they were all just figments of his imagination.

    Yooil clenched his cold hands.

    "Thanks, hyung."

    "Huh?"

    "Honestly, even knowing it''s not real, it''s just as scary every time."

    However, Yooil had no intention of giving up on background immersion. He couldn''t deny that it was the most helpful practice for his acting.

    Now that things hade to this, he had no choice but to get used to it.

    "You really had a restless dream, didn''t you?"

    Yooil looked at Min Woojin shaking his head and smiled.

    A few minutester, Min Woojin''s car arrived at the underground parking lot of JJ Entertainment.

    As he entered the practice room, familiar faces of the staff greeted him.

    "Yooil, you''re here?"

    "Shall we start right away?"

    After taking a sip of water, Yooil nodded.

    Yooil was at thepany to prepare for a performance he would present at the fan meeting.

    He warmed up and then began to sing.

    [When the sky shines a brilliant blue]

    The song Yooil was singing was a famous love song often used as a wedding march a few years ago, by a singer known as the queen of OSTs.

    [When the white stars sing at night]

    The vocal trainer watched Yooil sing with shining eyes. Oftening to JJ Entertainment when needed due to his close rtionship with Director Jang Jaeyi, he admired Yooil''s voice.

    He had felt it during <Sing in High School>, but Yooil''s voice and fundamentals were so good that even with a limited vocal range, he was a captivating vocalist.

    <i>But he''s improved even more since then.''</i>

    If there was one concern, it was that Yooil didn''t seem to be in the best condition.

    "You''re doing great. Just be careful to listen to the beat and enter on cue on stage"

    The vocal trainer gazed intently at Yooil and asked,

    "But Yooil, are you feeling alright?"

    "Of course."

    Yooil replied with a smile to the trainer''s question.

    Preparing for the fan meeting was a different feeling from practicing for acting. The thought of preparing a stage for the fans made him feel special.

    More than anything, it seemed like the practice had helped him sort out his feelings a bit.

    And after that day, time flew by quickly.

    The day of Han Yooil''s first offline fan meeting was approaching.

    * * *

    "Huh."

    The office worker swallowed dryly at the sight of the long queue.

    <i>I haven''t been to a concert since high school.''</i>

    For today, the office worker boldly took a day off. It was to see Han Yooil.

    It felt worthwhile asking a friend, a long-time fan of idols, to help with ticketing in exchange for a meal.

    Huh? Boss, are you going to Han Yooil''s fan meeting? My sister is going there tomorrow too.

    Although the colleague''sment made the office worker''s heart flutter for a moment yesterday, they decided not to think too deeply about it.

    <i>I made some excuses, so it should be fine.''</i>

    "Pleasee in!"

    "Enter one by one, slowly please!"

    [One & Only]

    The office worker sat down with a trembling heart, looking at the title of the fan meeting floating above the stage.

    The office worker didn''t know how an actor''s fan meeting was conducted, but guessed it would be quite different from an idol concert. However, as soon as the fan meeting started, they realized their assumption was wrong.

    "!"

    As everyone was waiting for Han Yooil''s appearance.

    Music began to y from beyond the empty stage.

    <i>Huh?''</i>

    The office worker perked up their ears. It was a song they recognized, even though they weren''t well-versed in pop music. Before they could even recall the title of the song, the first line was sung.

    [When the sky shines a brilliant blue]

    As the owner of the voice was recognized, cheers erupted in unison.

    The one singing was undoubtedly Han Yooil.

    <i>Amazing!''</i>

    The office worker''s eyes widened, their mouth agape.

    [When the white stars sing at night]

    The soft voice resonated through the art hall. The fans who were cheering joyously soon began to immerse themselves in his song.

    <i>It''s good.''</i>

    They had felt it during Singin'' High'', but his tone was really nice. The office worker found themselves softly humming along to the song.

    [I can''t stop thinking about you]

    [But you probably don''t know my feelings]

    The office worker, captivated by Yooil''s song, slightly tilted their head.

    <i>Has his singing improved even more?''</i>

    They knew he was already good, but this was exceptional.

    [I want to look into your eyes and tell you]

    As the first verse ended, and the instrumental break began, Yooil appeared from the back of the stage. Cheers erupted as if they had been eagerly waiting.

    "Yooil~!"

    "Han Yooil!"

    Yooil, who stepped onto the stage, slowly looked around the auditorium with a microphone firmly in his hand.

    Yooil''s eyes deepened as he saw his fans seated in the audience. As he looked around at his fans with a face full of swirling emotions, he slowly opened his mouth.

    "Hello, I am Han Yooil."

    And so, Han Yooil''s first fan meeting began.

 Chapter 104:

    Chapter 104:

    "."

    Yooil slowly looked around the audience.

    From the front to the back, Yooil tried to make eye contact with each person sitting in the seats. The venue for Yooil''s fan meeting was the main theater of the art hall, which had a maximum capacity of about 1000 people.

    <i>All these people came to see me.''</i>

    Preparing for the fan meeting and actually facing the fans in person felt entirely different. When he looked into the eyes of his fans, his mind went nk.

    <i>Get it together.''</i>

    Finally pulling himself together, Yooil began to sing thest line of the song.

    [I think I can finally say it now]

    After finishing the song, Yooil barely managed to speak.

    "I''m more nervous than at an award ceremony."

    Laughter spread throughout the audience at Yooil''s remark.

    "It''s okay~"

    "You''re so cute!"

    <i>!''</i>

    Seeing the flustered and broken'' Yooil, the fans enjoyed the moment even more.

    Today, Yooil''spany had invited a special host to lead the fan meeting. It was Wooju, a talented broadcaster he had met once before during "Space Train."

    "Woow~ Yooil, you look so cool today!"

    With her unique high tone, she jumped onto the stage, her blue hair swaying as she eximed cheerfully.

    "Look at this blue jacket and hoodie~ Totally big brother vibes!"

    Wooju interacted with Yooil with her usual overflowing energy, which helped him to focus on the conversation instead of getting lost in deep thoughts.

    "Now, before we move on to the next segment, if you have anything you want to say to the fans, now''s the time, Yooil!"

    Holding the microphone, Yooil looked around.

    "To be honest, I still can''t believe I''m here."

    Yooil spoke yfully, now a bit more at ease.

    "Thank you foring all the way here tonight, even though you must be tired."

    Not tired at all!

    Someone in the audience shouted energetically.

    Hearing that, Yooil covered his face with one hand andughed lightly, promptingughter to erupt from the audience.

    "By the way, did everyone have dinner?"

    Yes!

    The chorus-like response made Yooilugh unwittingly.

    * * *

    Seated in the center of row F, Lee Hyejin had been covering her mouth since the beginning of the fan meeting. Otherwise, she felt she might keep making noise.

    Yooil, whom she had seen several times at school, was now someone she only saw on screen.

    <i>He''s be even more handsome.''</i>

    Was it the atmosphere that had changed?

    Yooil, wearing a yellow hoodie, light blue jacket, and jeans with cute patches, seemed as if he was born to wear those clothes. Especially since his recent roles were far from bright characters, the casual and cute outfit felt particrly delightful.

    Then, after a brief conversation between Wooju and Yooil.

    The main segment of the fan meeting began.

    "Here, in this box, are all the wishes that the fans have requested!"

    Wooju pointed to the transparent acrylic box that the staff had brought to the center of the stage. Inside were colorful stic balls.

    "Now, let''s draw the first wish!"

    Yooil picked a green ball. As he opened it, a slip of paper fell onto hisp.

    "Uh"

    The expression on Yooil''s face turned slightly strange as he read the note. After pondering for a moment, Yooil read out the note.

    "Please tell us your shoulder width and shoe size please."

    Yooil, with a puzzled face, read the note and lifted his head.

    "Is this really your wish?"

    <i>!''</i>

    Lee Hyejin quickly pressed down her rising cheeks. The audience was already filled with screams of anticipation.

    Wooju pped her hands as if she was the one who had asked the question, thoroughly enjoying herself.

    "Ah, this is it, this is it~!"

    Yooil still looked bewildered but obediently responded.

    "My shoe size is 275mm. As for my shoulders I''m not sure."

    "Knew it! We''re prepared for everything~!"

    Wooju pulled out a tape measure from the table and approached Yooil.

    "5, 54 centimeters?"

    Wooju, who had measured the width herself, looked up at Yooil with a slightly surprised face.

    Yooil''s expression, still unable toprehend, was a subtly amusing point.

    More unique wishes (?) continued to emerge. The wishes written on the notes asked Yooil to do trendy aegyo from short-form content tforms, or to recite a line from <Jinhee>.

    After several rounds of wish notes,

    thest ball Yooil picked contained one more question.

    "I want to see you dance to an idol''s song."

    Woahhh!

    The audience erupted in cheers, their eyes filled with anticipation as they looked at Yooil.

    However, Yooil''s response was unexpected. Reading the note, Yooil furrowed his brows and said,

    "Ah, but as you all know, I can''t dance."

    No way!

    Liar!

    The fans, eager and unwilling to ept his answer, shouted vehemently, but Yooil shook his head firmly as if it really wasn''t possible.

    "I''m going to prepare for the next segment. Watch the video, and I''ll see you again soon!"

    The fans, with faces full of disappointment, watched Yooil''s retreating back. As the VCR started, their attention shifted to the screen.

    A fan meeting?

    Will that many peoplee to see me?

    The VCR that started with a ck screen soon showed Yooil''s face.

    It was Yooil during an interview.

    I never thought I would start acting like this.

    [You had talent.]

    I was just lucky.

    After that, the video showed Yooil preparing various things for the fan meeting segments.

    The video then cut off as Yooil was seen making a phone call and going to meet someone.

    <i>What''s this?''</i>

    <i>Is it an error?''</i>

    As the fans were puzzled by the sudden interruption, they cheered when Yooil reappeared on stage.

    Yooil returned, dressed in a white shirt with a necktie and ck trousers.

    Those who expected him to sit down were surprised when he took a position in the center of the stage.

    However, as the music started ying on stage, their expressions changed instantly.

    "!"

    The song was ck Sea''s <Shining Night>.

    <Shining Night>, or Bright Night'', was a song that became hugely popr when ck Sea made aeback with the ck Agent concept.

    On stage, Han Yooil, as the music reached its climax, assumed his position as if he had been waiting for this moment.

    [We wake up as the night deepens]

    The dance started with a move like hiding in the shadows and loading a gun.

    [In the shadowy streets, twinkling starlight]

    <i>Amazing.''</i>

    The office worker watched the stage, mouth agape.

    Even without knowing much about dance, it seemed evident how much practice was required for such choreography.

    [I search for you again and Run to you]

    [Roll the dice for a mission dedicated only to you tonight]

    With a gesture as if rolling dice in the air, the choreography for <Shining Night> came to an end.

    <i>Wow''</i>

    The office worker pped in amazement. Even this much was impressive enough.

    But the real highlight was yet toe.

    [Pop, pop, pop! Bursting lovely heart!]

    "!"

    As soon as the unforgettable melody started ying, the office worker unconsciously grabbed their phone.

    They might not know much else, but they had to record this.

    * * *

    The fan meeting, initially scheduled for 2 hours,sted well over 3 hours beforeing to an end.

    "Thank you so much foring. Really."

    Yooil was giving his closing remarks when someone shouted.

    "Yooil! Thank you~!"

    Yooil turned his head towards the loud voice in the audience, a soft smile forming on his lips.

    "Me too."

    His voice trembled slightly as the words flowed out.

    "Thank you so much."

    Everyone, both those fixated on Yooil''s face in the audience and those watching his face on the screen, fell silent.

    "Thank you, everyone."

    In the end, Yooil couldn''t hold back his tears.

    * * *

    Han Yooil''s debut fan meeting concludes sessfully

    Han Yooil''s sold-out fan meeting ends sessfully Unforgettable''

    Han Yooil''s fan meeting ended with great sess.

    Immediately after the fan meeting,

    Yooil posted a handwritten letter on Unique You''.

    Hello, this is Han Yooil.

    [It was such a joy to meet fans today. Honestly, I was so excited I almost stayed up all night, but thankfully, I managed to get some sleep and meet you all in good condition. ()]

    It was a lengthy letter. Yooil calmly narrated the moment he started acting and his resolve as an actor. Thest paragraph of the letter went like this:

    [() I know I''m far from perfect, but I promise to work hard to make you proud. I''ll live more diligently and do my best, so please keep an eye on me.]

    The letter, with its orderly handwriting and sincerity pressed into every word, touched the fans deeply. The I love you'', the small heart, and Han Yooil'' written at the end felt especially poignant.

    Those who usually posted polishednguage on the fan caf started sharing raw posts onmunity forums.

    Just back from the fan meeting

    [Seriously paradise, my fan heart is at its peak right now..]

    222.. Crazy

    It was really so good

    I''ve been thinking about the fan meeting all day

    Total fangirl meltdown;;

    Isn''t this crazy

    [I''ve been a fan of various idols for a long time and often went to concerts and fan meetings, but I''ve never felt this way at an actor''s fan meeting..]

    The emotions were real

    Must have been great, everyone''s just saying good things

    Agreed

    They even gave us fan gifts

    Really?!

    Yep, hand cream, lip balm, chocte, and photocards

    Amazing

    I didn''t know my actor could sing so well

    [If only he released an album]

    Agreed

    Wow, if he released an album, I''d listen to it all day

    Found a link to aption of Yooil singing at the fan meeting here! (Link)

    Wow, insane

    Thanks, thanks

    Gonna listen to this every night before bed

    Feeling proud you attended the fan meeting, huh?

    [Please do more upload more photos please]

    (Photo)

    (Photo)

    Thanks

    Seriously tearing up [Missed it because of a part-time job and it hurts more reading the reviews next fan meeting should be at least two days with a minimum capacity of 2000 people, seriously]

    True;;

    JJ, are you seeing this?

    Meanwhile, on BlueChat, Yooil''s fan meeting reviews were prominently visible.

    [@yulyul0402

    (Photo) (Photo)

    0116 Thanks for the warmest and happiest January gift ever! Let''s keep watching for a long time (Puppy emoticon) (Sun emoticon) #One&Only #Han_yu-il_1st_Fan_meeting #Love_you_Yooil]

    After browsing through the reviews and enjoying the afterglow, Lee Hyejin was examining countless videos and photos taken at Yooil''s fan meeting.

    [@jinnnny (Photo) Getting more handsome by the minute;;]

    [@jinnnny (Photo) Hoodie with a blue jacket, is this even real?]

    While actively posting on BlueChat, Lee Hyejin turned her gaze to the neat, small-sized shopping bag received at the fan meeting. Inside were hand cream and lip balm from the skincare brand Yooil recently modeled for, and a photocard signed by Yooil.

    <i>It''s too precious to use.''</i>

    Of course, she nned to use it all since Yooil had said not to save it.

    Lee Hyejin looked at the photocard with a distant gaze, thinking,

    <i>I want to go again.''</i>

    She was already missing the fan meeting.

    * * *

    A week after Yooil had hectically prepared and sessfully concluded the fan meeting, he was taking in the salty sea air and doing some light stretching. A faint smile appeared on Yooil''s face as he exhaled deeply.

    <i>This is nice.''</i>

    He was currently at the filming site for Shadows of Faith''.

 Chapter 105:

    Chapter 105:

    In the midst of the bustling film set where preparations for shooting were underway, Yooil, havingpleted his makeup, sought out his fellow actors and naturally called out to Park Younghyun.

    "Hyung."

    Startled by Han Yooil''s approach, Younghyun hastily hid his phone.

    "?"

    Yooil''s confusion grew apparent as it was clear Younghyun had been caught looking at something he shouldn''t have. Catching a glimpse of the video title, Yooil''s expression instantly hardened.

    Han Yooil Covering Lemon Candy

    ""

    Kim Suna, standing nearby with her clear eyes, responded instead.

    "I sent him the link."

    "!"

    "Do you think I could get an invite to the next fan meeting?"

    "Uh?"

    <i>Is she serious?''</i>

    As Han Yooil stood speechless, Younghyun spoke up softly.

    "You danced well. The reaction was good too."

    Indeed. I''ll show you the response to the video.

    Brion quickly disyed the reactions.

    LOLLLLLL

    Who else but an actor dresses in a suit and dances so refreshingly?

    After watching this, You''re the BestYOU'' started showing up in my rmended videos

    Ah

    LOL now RollFun'' should be part of Han Yooil''s filmography

    Did Han Yooil actually enjoy this?

    I was already stunned by Shining Night'' and then this left me breathless

    But why is he so good?

    LOL true

    I was there in person the reaction was incredible

    "Stop."

    In the midst of this, Park Younghyun started ying another video.

    "This is the one Yooil practiced at Kim Harang''s agency."

    "Really? I haven''t seen that one."

    Han Yooil watched in confusion as Younghyun and Suna shared the link. Unbeknownst to Yooil, the video of him practicing with Kim Harang and Ji Eunho at NVB was also bing a hot topic. It was the video Younghyun had just started ying.

    [ck Sea] Unexpected Guests or rather, Students at ck Sea

    Yooil quickly skimmed through the topments.

    LOL Harang doing exactly what he does to the members

    True doesn''t give any ck

    Why is Yooil so good?

    All three of them are too handsome

    ck Sea fan but I think I''m falling for Han Yooil cute

    Thebination of the three seemed uniquely interesting and fun to the fans. With a strong international fandom, there werements in variousnguages, and even among ck Sea''s content, there were mentions of Yooil.

    So adorable!

    Harang is always cute! Eunho''s beauty is stunning, and I support the friendship of these amazing actors!

    Who''s the cute guy in the white t-shirt and ck pants?

    Han Yooil (Actor)

    Thanks!

    Good reactions are, of course, wee.

    But that didn''t make the embarrassment disappear.

    "What are you all doing here?"

    Han Yooil''s awkward moment persisted until Park Taeil, who had finished his makeup, arrived at the scene.

    "Whoa, what''s this?"

    "Senior, that''s"

    "Whoa!"

    With a hearty exmation, Taeil took the phone from Younghyun.

    "Wow, this is awesome?! I had no idea Yooil could dance so well?! You''ve been hiding this talent?"

    <i>''</i>

    Yooil''s salvation came in the form of the standby sign.

    And with that sign, the actors transformed into their characters in Shadows of Faith''.

    * * *

    "I feel nauseous."

    Upon arriving at the ind, Daeoh staggered and clung to the jetty.

    "Is there anything edible here?"

    "Yep. Just one ce."

    Immediately after arriving, the group headed to a worn-out noodle shop.

    Ordering two bowls of banquet noodles and one spicy mixed noodles, they sat in the silent restaurant that looked like it hadn''t seen a customer in ten years.

    Daeoh, noticing the dust on the spoons and chopsticks, was about to wipe them when he saw even the tissues were dusty and gave up.

    "Excuse me."

    The short-haired, white-haireddy owner watched them warily as she cooked the noodles.

    Soon the noodles were served at their table.

    "Thank you."

    Suhyun, who picked up his chopsticks first, had well-maintained muscles and tattoos fully exposed. With a brazen face, he nodded and put a mouthful of spicy mixed noodles in his mouth, chewing heartily.

    "Aren''t you eating?"

    Prompted by Suhyun''s words, the others hesitantly picked up their chopsticks.

    Daeoh, with a worried face, put the noodles in his mouth. Finding the taste surprisingly good, he began to eat earnestly.

    "Hmm, it''s better than I thought."

    After emptying two bowls, they left the noodle shop. The three narrowed their eyes at Daeoh''sment.

    The brief rxed atmosphere became tense when, except for Suhyun, the three went to the supermarket.

    Like the noodle shop owner, the supermarket owner scrutinized them suspiciously.

    "What brings you to Haseok Ind?"

    Eunyoung spoke up.

    "Actually we are people practicing spirituality."

    Kim Shin, pushing up his sses, joined in.

    "That''s right. We came to meet someone who was reborn on this ind, we heard."

    "You believe in Jesus?"

    "No. Not exactly."

    "More urately, not anymore."

    Eunyoung quickly added, causing the supermarket owner''s eyes to narrow.

    "Really?"

    "Do you perhaps know something, sir?"

    "Hmm."

    The supermarket owner was evasive, but Kim Shin quickly grasped his mind.

    The gleam in Kim Shin''s eyes behind his sses began to flicker.

    His highly developed intuition and perceptiveness were the reasons he had made a name for himself as a detective agency owner.

    In the actual show, visual effects would depict his analysis of the surroundings.

    Kim Shin inferred from the owner''s eyes, the white handkerchief hanging around the cash register, and his tone of voice.

    He''s a believer.

    Concluding his analysis, he continued speaking with an oblivious face.

    "We really want to study deeply."

    As Eunyoung spoke with wide-eyed innocence, the supermarket owner slowly nodded in agreement.

    "People oftene from the maind."

    After finishing the conversation, the group left and met Suhyun, who had just checked the boat.

    "But is that supermarket owner really a believer?"

    "Yes."

    Suhyun, nodding affirmatively, gazed out over the deep sea with hisnguid, dry eyes.

    "Considering he''s still alive."

    The dry voice that flowed from his mouth changed the expressions of those around him.

    "!"

    Even Eunyoung, who had been sharply observant, began to look at him with softened eyes.

    And director Go Jinho nodded satisfactorily.

    "Cut! Okay~"

    As the shooting went on as usual, it was suddenly interrupted by an unexpected issue.

    During a short break while the actors sat on chairs as the camera was being set up, the area around the director became bustling.

    "Director, I''m really sorry. But the sponsor wants at least three sentences spoken about the product''s efficacy"

    "Hey, isn''t that different from what you said before? You said just showing it was enough."

    "That''s The scene used to be much longer in the previous script, but it got shortened after a recent revision, and the exposure time changed Thepany is making an issue out of it"

    Hearing this, director Go Jinho''s face turned red as if he was holding back anger. Next to him, a PD from the marketing team stood, unsure of what to do.

    A makeup artist, busy touching up Han Yooil''s makeup, whispered.

    "It''s because of the PPL."

    By now, the marketing team PD was on the verge of tears.

    "But, seriously, does it make sense to exin the benefits of ginseng in a hiding spot on the ind?"

    "Still, it''s rtively lighter than the heavier second half of the episode ording to the current script, it needs to be shown at least four times in episode 12"

    Director Go Jinho sighed deeply, his face full of frustration.

    "Oh my."

    Park Taeil, too, scratched his head, seemingly out of ideas.

    The shooting might continue to be dyed if things kept up like this. Han Yooil furrowed his brows in thought.

    That''s a good idea. It''s a natural PPL that doesn''t disrupt the flow of the story.

    Receiving feedback from Brion, Yooil approached director Go Jinho.

    "Director, I have an idea."

    Hearing Yooil''s suggestion, director Go Jinho''s eyebrows rose.

    "!"

    Park Younghyun and Kim Suna looked at Yooil with wide eyes.

    <i>I didn''t think of that.''</i>

    But it seemed surprisingly good.

    "Let''s go with that."

    After hearing Yooil''s suggestion, the PD from the marketing team, now rejuvenated, began to look at him with a touched expression.

    "Setup isplete~"

    "Let''s go for a standby!"

    And the shooting continued.

    * * *

    What Han Yooil had proposed was adding depth to Suhyun''s character.

    Expressionless, Suhyun pulled out a pack of ginseng from his pocket. To avoid an overly tant shot, the cinematographer filmed it with the surrounding background slightly in frame.

    "Oh? Are you giving this to me?"

    Suhyun offered the ginseng, which was met with noticeable joy.

    Eunyoung looked at him with a face of surprise. Daeoh had already ripped open the ginseng and was squeezing it into his mouth.

    "It''s curious. I wouldn''t have expected you to even touch something like this."

    At Eunyoung''sment, Suhyun looked at the ginseng. His face remained expressionless.

    But when Suhyun spoke, everyone was taken aback by the unexpected words.

    "Immunity boost. Stamina enhancement. Fatigue reduction."

    At Suhyun''s words, Kim Shin and the two journalists looked at him as if he was speaking nonsense. Suhyun himself, however, seemed earnest. He appeared unaffected.

    Nonchntly saying those words, he then took out a cigarette.

    "Ever since I was young, whenever I was given ginseng, someone always made me recite that."

    "Who?"

    Instead of answering Eunyoung''s question, Suhyun gazed deeply at the sea from the deck.

    "My mom."

    He continued.

    "She was fine back then."

    The atmosphere turned somber in an instant at Suhyun''s words. The camera captured the expressions of the characters gauging Suhyun''s mood.

    The scene then smoothly transitioned to Kim Shin''s lines.

    "Here, your IDs."

    What the group was sharing were fake IDs created by Kim Shin to avoid tracking.

    "What''s this?"

    "Ah, don''t blow your cover. Better memorize your birthdate now."

    "If you were going to do this, you could have given it to us a bit earlier."

    "Want me to take it back?"

    "No, thank you."

    With the banter between Kim Shin and Daeoh, the scene ended.

    <i>Not bad.''</i>

    Director Go Jinho, monitoring the scene, smiled satisfactorily.

    The result was better than he had expected.

    He knew they had to incorporate PPL, but with the tight schedule, he had been unsure how to insert it without disrupting the flow.

    <i>In that brief moment, he added a narrative to the character.''</i>

    The shooting continued even after the small PPL incident.

    Han Yooil looked at the script with eager anticipation.

    Soon, the scene he was most looking forward to was about to unfold.

    * * *

    "I have something else to do."

    With those words, Suhyun left the group at the temple''s threshold and disappeared. The group, minus Suhyun, entered the temple built deep in the mountains.

    "The moment you cross this threshold, you start a new life."

    "Leave all the filth of the mundane world behind and enter."

    Eunyoung and Daeoh, excited at the thought of finally starting their coverage, stepped forward with shining eyes.

    "Consider yourself lucky. Today, specially, the leader will conduct the service himself."

    Entering the temple, they encounter the leader''. The leader appears, face covered with a white cloth, dressed in a white dress, and wearing a red flower ne around the neck.

    Shocked to see the leader of the pseudo-religion in Ha Seok Ind, rumored to be menacing, right before their eyes, they are taken aback.

    "!!!"

    The identity of the leader who appeared before them was.

    <i>A child.''</i>

    Clearly, a child no more than ten years old.

 Chapter 106:

    Chapter 106:

    The office worker, revisiting the previous night''s live stream, felt both regret and excitement. It was as if their less-than-great condition was instantly revitalized.

    Ah It''ste. Thank you for staying up with me.

    No! It''s not a burden at all!''

    Live stream king, face king

    Han Yooil is the future

    So grateful he finds time for live streams despite his busy schedule

    How does Han Yooil manage to do live streams so frequently despite his busy schedule? That was one of Han Yooil''s mysteries.

    After watching the live stream until the end, the office worker clicked on a video link they had watched countless times before. If the video could physically wear out, it would have been tattered by now.

    It was thest speech video from the fan meeting day.

    Although the office worker had attended the fan meeting in person, they hadn''t been able to see Yooil''s expression very closely during the final part. Fortunately, the ount OnlyYooil'' kindly uploaded a close-up of Han Yooil''s face.

    Yooil was wearing a ck leather jacket and jeans. His eyes had already begun to glisten with moisture as he started looking around the audience.

    The luminescent glow in his eyes sparkled mysteriously under the lights.

    Yooil! Thank you!

    A booming voice erupted from the audience.

    Tears began to fall from Han Yooil''s moist eyes.

    "Thank you really."

    It was as if a human faucet had been turned on, the amount was so immense.

    Each time the office worker saw Yooil cry, their heart felt sore as if punched yet, at the same time, it fluttered.

    <i>Ah.''</i>

    They were determined to attend the next fan meeting no matter what. They had already secured an early bird ticket for From the Ground'' and participated in a coffee truck support for Shadows of Faith''.

    "Oh, right!"

    Remembering something, the office worker sprang up from their seat and checked their calendar.

    <i>That''s today!''</i>

    The office worker started waiting for Han Yooil''s coffee truck certification shot to be posted on Shasta.

    * * *

    Meanwhile, at the same time.

    At the Shadows of Faith'' film set.

    Goal Achievement Rate for Phase 4: 14.1%

    <i>''</i>

    Checking the goal achievement rate, Yooil slowly turned his head. It was an ambiguous figure.

    Although there was still plenty of time left, it wasn''t something to bepletely rxed about, nor was it so dire to start worrying.

    If it falls short, you can always take on a new project, so don''t worry too much.

    ""

    Yooil ignored Brion and turned his attention back to the set.

    Han Yooil was watching the first shooting of Hana Ahae'', the cult leader.

    * * *

    "Hana Ahae have youe?"

    "Hana Ahae"

    <i>(tl/n: Hana Ahae  consist of two words,  means One, and  means Little One, Child but a bit more archaic, I think.)</i>

    Those surrounding the child began to bow, calling the child Hana Ahae''.

    It was a scene eerie enough to make even young children cry. However, the Hana Ahae'' called the leader simply nodded, expressionless.

    "Hana Ahae my husband was injured this time. Please, grace us"

    "To thismb, to this foolish soul, grant your mercy"

    His manner of speaking was neither arrogant nor overly exaggerated. The weariness of someone who had repeated the same task countless times seeped through.

    <i>!</i>

    At that moment, upon witnessing the scene, Kim Shin finally realized that he had entered the highly secretive religious group, the Hana Ahae Sect''.

    You''ve found the right ce.

    Kim Shin learned that the mysterious ind mentioned by the families of the missing persons, and the religion associated with it, was indeed the Hana Ahae Sect.

    With that conviction, he gazed at the young leader of Hana Ahae, marking the end of the scene.

    Cut!

    Even after the directors cut signal, the child actor remained still with a face devoid of any smile.

    Han Yooil looked at the young actor before him. Then, as if on cue, Brions voice was heard.

    Seo Heeyul. A child actor who debuted at the age of four.

    <i>Seo Heeyul</i>

    It was a name he had heard, but it was his first time seeing the face.

    Meanwhile, after monitoring, Go Jinho removed his headphones and leaned forward.

    Hey Heeyul. Let''s shoot it one more time.

    Yes.

    Can you look more coldly at the camera this time?

    Yes, Director.

    Seo Heeyul quickly took note of the adjustments and swiftly moved on to the new take.

    As the new take began, Han Yooil watched Seo Heeyul with a slightly surprised look.

    <i>Hes good.</i>

    Not just good for a child, but genuinely good.

    Seo Heeyul had be a topic of discussion for his acting in a daily drama that ended two years ago, known even now as DaeBaks Daughter.

    The acting was the same, facing forward. The only difference was in the eyes. The child, no less adept than seasoned actors, skillfully executed the role.

    <i>Thats a challenging role.</i>

    Clearly, the child seems to have a talent for acting.

    Yooil nodded in agreement with Brion after a long time.

    And with that, the shooting of the scene featuring the young leader was concluded.

    Just when Yooil was about to quench his thirst with some water.

    Yooil-ssi!

    A cheerful voice called out to Yooil. When he turned to see the staff members face with a puzzled look, the staff happily continued.

    The coffee truck! Your coffee truck is here, Yooil-ssi!

    ?

    And then, Yooil was astonished to see the red support truck parked beyond the shooting location.

    <i>Ah.</i>

    [Yooils Only Coffee Truck]

    The signboard and banners, adorned with Yooil''s photoshoot images, were eye-catching.

    The coffee truck boasted an array of beverages that would make any renowned caf jealous  from coffee to fresh fruit juices, and a variety of breads sourced from famous bakeries.

    Moreover, the Mooyis had coborated with the fan clubs of Park Younghyun and Kim Suna to prepare a buffet.

    Wow~

    Well enjoy the food, Yooil-ssi!

    This looks so delicious~

    Were living the good life thanks to Yooil-ssi!

    Mooyi is awesome~

    The staff were simply happy to have delicious drinks and food. The cream breads were as popr as the beverages.

    "Wow, this is so delicious!"

    "I''ll have the chocte cream one!"

    "Original for me, please, boss!"

    Moments ago, the assistant director, who had been walking around with a tired look, now sparkled with excitement, offering to take a photo of Yooil himself.

    After snapping a picture and chatting with a couple of fans who came to support, Yooil finally made his way to the buffet.

    As he was about to sit down, Yooil noticed a small figure sitting alone at a distant table. It was Seo Heeyul.

    Hello.

    At Han Yooil''s greeting, Heeyul peered at him with round eyes and, instead of speaking, gave a slight nod.

    Seeing Yooil take his seat, Park Taeil, Kim Suna, and Park Younghyun also sat down.

    "Heeyul, aren''t you hot?"

    "What do you like, Heeyul?"

    "Theres chocte milk outside!"

    Heeyul, standing still, just moved her lips slightly and then hung her head low.

    "?!"

    The actors, who had been looking at Heeyul with affection, were now puzzled.

    <i>What to do!''</i>

    <i>Is she scared?!''</i>

    <i>What''s wrong?''</i>

    While everyone was at a loss, the child said nothing.

    Then, Park Taeil was about to ask another question.

    How old are you, Heeyul?

    But the one who responded wasnt Heeyul but her mother, who came running from afar with the sound of high heels.

    "Ha ha, oh my~! All the actors are here~!"

    A strong scent of perfume wafted with her every movement.

    "Heeyul! Why aren''t you saying anything when the seniors are talking to you!"

    "But"

    "Seo Heeyul!"

    Heeyul''s mother sharply called out, shaking her daughter''s shoulder. Then, Heeyul, who had her eyes tightly shut, slowly opened her mouth.

    <i>!''</i>

    Kim Suna''s expression hardened noticeably, but Heeyul''s mother seemed oblivious to it.

    Swallowing her dry saliva, Heeyul spoke calmly.

    Sorry, seniors. I''m nine years old this year, my name is Seo Heeyul."

    Yooil was once again surprised by the child''s clear artiction, unbelievable for her age. As the child answered maturely, a pleased smile appeared on Park Taeil''s face.

    Wow! My second child is also nine! How can Heeyul be so mature?"

    Thank you, senior."

    Heeyul responded calmly and maturely to any question, in a manner hard to believe for a nine-year-old.

    "Oh, my child is good at acting~ just a bit shy, a bit shy!"

    Seo Heeyul''s mother quickly continued talking and then hurriedly left her seat when her phone rang.

    "Yes, yes, yes~ No, I can talk~ Yes~"

    Watching her mother''s retreating back, Heeyul sighed softly and was about to eat her sd with a fork.

    That''s when Han Yooil spoke.

    Do you want some chocte milk?"

    !

    * * *

    Seo Heeyul was good at acting.

    The filming set was fascinating and enjoyable, but more than anything else, Heeyul loved it when her mother praised her acting.

    Seo Heeyul! Today''s shoot is really important, you know? You have to do it right. Got it?!

    If this drama does well, you could even be the lead in a movie. From daily dramas to series You know what I mean, right, Heeyul?

    "Yes, Mom."

    Acting pleased her mother, and when her mother was happy, she felt good. That''s why Seo Heeyul had been acting for already five years.

    <i>I won''t be shaken by what anyone says!''</i>

    Just as she resolved this and was about to take a bite of her potato sd.

    "Do you want some chocte milk?"

    At Yooil''s words, Heeyul found herself drooling without realizing.

    "Mmm"

    With teary eyes, Heeyul looked at the desserts in Yooil''s hand.

    She was full from the meal, but the chocte milk looked incredibly delicious!!

    It had the exact color of chocte mixed with milk, topped with white milk foam. Sprinkled beautifully on top was cocoa powder.

    And in Han Yooil''s other hand was a bread that looked extremely soft!

    The bread crust emitted a ky, nutty aroma, and the white, sweet cream that burst out from inside began to entice Heeyul.

    <i>But Mom said never to eat snacks''</i>

    Heeyul sneakily nced towards the staff. Her mom was not in sight.

    Handsome Oh no, senior Han Yooil, didn''t seem to have sore arms as he held the bread and chocte milk in his hands, smiling gently.

    "Just a little I''ll only have a little."

    At Heeyul''s words, Han Yooil softly smiled and offered her the chocte milk and bread.

    "Heeyul-ssi."

    At the beautiful voice, no senior Kim Suna''s words, Heeyul turned to her with a happy face.

    "Yes! Senior!"

    "Why couldn''t you answer straight away earlier? Were you scared?"

    Then, Heeyul shook her head vigorously.

    "It''s not that I was scared. It''s because of the role I''m ying this time."

    Heeyul hesitated slightly and then continued slowly.

    "I was told to talk as little as possible with others."

    "!"

    "Because it breaks the emotional line"

    "Who told you that?"

    Kim Suna''s expression turned cold instantly at the next words.

    "My mom."

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    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!