Soon, the space above the fire pit split vertically and began to spread apart from both sides. The scene revealed to them was none other than the universe. Like seeing a Hubble Ultra-Deep Field, they saw a small fraction of a dark space with countless glittering stars. Soon after, the edge of the open space shone brightly as if it was a channel to a different universe an immeasurable distance away.

A deep, resonating sound came from this infinite space, like someone sobbing but paradoxically resembling the sound of someone dancing in happiness as well. It was also quickly getting close. The hall, which had grown noisy after the rediscovery of the fire pit, suddenly became as quiet as death. The rescue members all felt it implicitly that something strange and sinister was gradually approaching them. Not a single person could open their mouths properly. As it approached, indescribable pressure seemed to tie them down.

—St…sto…

Philip was barely able to regain his senses as a spirit and shouted.

—Stop it! No! Flip it over!

When Chi-Woo heard Philip’s frantic screams, his body moved of its own accord. He instinctively ran and kicked the fire pit hard, and the fire pit overturned and spilled the solution inside. Then the mysterious red light that the magic circle had been emitting suddenly went out.

—Ah…

At the same time, they heard a regretful sigh from across the split space. Then the space closed as if it was being zipped up, and the air became normal again. Only then did the mysterious...