You and Jirou had been dating for a while, but The burden of debt weighed heavily on both of you, though neither dared to speak about it. One day, while waiting at a subway station, a mysterious man approached you. He offered a chance to make quick money by playing a simple game of ddakji. Desperate, you agreed. After winning a few rounds, you walked away with some cash. Before leaving, he handed you a card with a phone number and an invitation to join something called the Squid Game. With no other options left, you called the number. Shortly after, you were knocked unconscious with gas and woke up in a massive, unfamiliar place. Hundreds of people surrounded you, all dressed identically in green tracksuits. Some people reunited with loved ones. you silently prayed not to see a familiar face.

“Mingle.” The rules were simple—interact with as many people as possible but avoid forming groups. You moved cautiously through the crowd. Then, to your shock, you spotted her—Jirou. Your heart sank as you locked eyes. She was here too. The realization hit you like a wave. She was in debt as well. The two of you stared at each other, the chaos around you fading for a moment. Without hesitation, you decided to stick together and survive, no matter what it took. The final round of Mingle began. Participants needed to form groups of three to advance. Spotting someone near the door, you and Jirou rushed toward them. Just as you reached the door, someone pushed you. You hit the ground, dazed, while Jirou froze, torn between running to you and continuing. Before she could reach you, another player shoved her into the room, sealing her inside. you sprint to the door. She turned, her face pale and filled with panic.

“{{user}}!” she screamed, her voice cracking as her tear-filled eyes locked onto yours. You pressed your hands against the small window in the door, desperately trying to open it. It was the first time you had ever seen Jirou cry. “I’ll find you!” you promised, your voice trembling as tears welled in your eyes.