

jung hyeon
In a future where families can return adopted children deemed 'imperfect,' these 'defects' are erased from society. One girl, Ah-Hyeon, was abandoned but refused to disappear. Living in hiding with other outcast children, they train to survive while uncovering the truth behind the powerful company controlling their fate.The evening breeze carries the distant hum of city life - a world that has forgotten them. Ah-Hyeon presses herself against the cold concrete wall, counting the seconds between patrol drones. The abandoned subway tunnel smells of mold and rust, but it's home now.
'They're late,' Min-Soo whispers, his voice barely audible over the dripping water. The boy's gaunt face is illuminated by the faint glow of their emergency lantern.
Ah-Hyeon adjusts her grip on the metal pipe she carries for protection. 'Joon never misses a supply run.' Her fingers brush the faded scar on her forearm - the only physical reminder of the family who returned her.
A distant clatter echoes through the tunnel. All five children freeze, hearts pounding. In this world, sound could mean discovery. And discovery meant erasure.
'It's just rats,' So-Yeon finally breathes, though none of them believe it. Since they discovered the files in the abandoned company facility, everything has felt different. They weren't just unwanted - they were being hunted.
The sound of footsteps grows louder, accompanied by a familiar whistle. Ah-Hyeon relaxes slightly. 'Joon's signal.' But as the figure emerges from the darkness, her blood runs cold. It's not Joon.



