#best trade show booth companies
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elikajinnie · 3 months ago
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The Frequency Of A Killer - S.J
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P: Killer!Jake X Fem!Reader
Warnings: Suspense, Teasing, Murder, Attempted Murder, Stalking, Mind Games, Obsessive Behaviour kinda?
Wordcount: + 20k words
Synopsis: After moving to a small town as a horror talk show host, you uncover a deadly cover-up tied to a masked killer. As the bodies pile up, the killer becomes fixated on you. Can you unravel the truth?
a/n: her we go! another killer au but this time its not Heeseung or Ni-ki! We got Jake :) so this is inspired by my fave horror game; killer frequency - 1000% recommend.
---
You were used to the rush, the buzz, and the endless opportunities of the big city. The noise didn’t bother you. Networking came naturally, jobs were abundant, and you’d found your niche in the chaos: hosting a podcast about horror and true crime in a way that set your listeners on edge while keeping them hooked. Your show had skyrocketed to fame, and you’d connected with an entire community of enthusiasts who lived for the thrill, just like you. Life was good. Stable. Yours.
Until your company decided you weren’t “it” anymore.
The justification was laughable—“gender diversity,” they’d said. They wanted to swap you out for some guy, as if trading a seasoned, beloved host for an inexperienced one would make everything magically better. You weren’t buying it, but their minds were made up. No amount of protest or proof of your success could change their decision. And so, you left, refusing to stick around and watch them hand your hard work over to someone who didn’t earn it.
That’s how you found yourself in this small, sleepy town, working for a much smaller company that was trying its hand at podcasts. They hired you on the spot, practically drooling over your experience, and offered you a spot as the host of their horror and true crime segment. It was meant to be a temporary gig, a placeholder until—surely—your old company would come crawling back, begging for you to return.
But a month had passed. One whole, quiet month, and they hadn’t reached out. Not even a courtesy email.
At least this place wasn’t half bad. You had your own little booth, tucked away in the back of the building, with soundproof walls and just enough space to feel like your own world. The show was entirely yours to run—aside from the occasional ad spot they made you slip in—and you had free rein to do what you did best. Even the people weren’t bad.
Especially Beomgyu.
Beomgyu was technically your producer, though most of his job seemed to involve screening calls and chatting with you during breaks. He sat in the booth just across from yours, separated by a thin pane of glass, and had this habit of pulling faces at you whenever you got too serious. At first, you thought he was annoying—this twenty-something with a mop of messy hair and a perpetual smirk—but over time, he’d grown on you.
Tonight was no different. You leaned back in your chair, headphones snug over your ears as you wrapped up the last caller. A woman with a trembling voice had called in to share a local ghost story about the old mill at the edge of town, and you’d expertly guided her through the tale, adding just the right amount of suspense and curiosity to keep your listeners hooked.
When the call ended, you glanced over at Beomgyu through the glass. He was grinning, spinning lazily in his chair, and holding up a piece of paper with “9/10” scrawled on it in bold, black ink.
You rolled your eyes and flicked him off with a smirk. He just laughed, pointing to the mic to remind you you were still live.
“Alright,” you said smoothly, turning back to the soundboard. “That’s all the time we have for tonight. Thanks for tuning in, and as always—lock your doors, check under your bed, and don’t trust the shadows.”
The outro music played, and you switched off your mic with a satisfied sigh.
“Not bad,” Beomgyu teased as you stood up, stretching your arms. “But you totally rushed the ending on that last one. Where was the suspense?”
“Where was the suspense?” you echoed mockingly, grabbing a cup of coffee off the table and taking a sip. “How about I’m the professional, and you’re just the guy who answers phones?”
Beomgyu snorted. “Keep telling yourself that. One day, I’m gonna take over your job and show you how it’s really done.”
“Please,” you shot back, rolling your eyes. “You’d last five minutes before you started talking about aliens or some weird conspiracy theory.”
He grinned. “You know me so well.”
--
The night started off normal enough. You sat at the small desk in the break area, sipping on a lukewarm coffee Beomgyu had somehow convinced you to grab for him before realizing you needed one for yourself too. He lounged across from you, feet propped up on the edge of the table like he owned the place, spinning a pen between his fingers.
“So,” he started casually, tilting his head with that usual lopsided grin of his, “what’s it like being a big-shot city person stuck in our little backwater town?”
You snorted, shaking your head. “First of all, you act like I came here voluntarily. Second, backwater’s a little harsh, don’t you think?”
He shrugged. “I call it like I see it. You’ve been here a month and you still can’t hide the ‘get me out of here’ look on your face.”
“Maybe because I’m waiting for my old company to realize they made the worst mistake of their lives.”
Beomgyu raised an eyebrow. “Yeah? And when they don’t? What’s Plan B?”
“Plan B?” you repeated, narrowing your eyes. “There’s no Plan B, because Plan A is going to work. They’ll come crawling back. Trust me.”
He clicked his tongue and gave you a doubtful look. “Sure, sure. But admit it—this place isn’t so bad. It’s quiet, no traffic, and the rent is dirt cheap. I bet your apartment here is, like, three times bigger than whatever shoebox you had back in the city.”
“Okay, yeah, I’ll give you that,” you admitted, leaning back in your chair. “The cost of living here is nice. And I don’t hate the peace and quiet. But the thing about big cities? There’s always something happening. People, events, opportunities. It’s like… the energy keeps you alive, you know?”
Beomgyu chuckled, twirling the pen like he was in some kind of drumline. “Sounds exhausting. You city people thrive on chaos. Meanwhile, out here, we’ve got… cows. And maybe a parade if you’re lucky.”
You rolled your eyes. “It’s not that bad here. I just… I’m not used to it yet.”
“Give it time,” he said, leaning forward like he was about to share a secret. “Pretty soon, you’ll be one of us. Walking slow, waving at strangers, knowing everyone’s business…”
You grimaced. “That sounds like my worst nightmare.”
Beomgyu laughed so hard he nearly knocked over his coffee. He was still grinning when he asked, “So what was it like, though? Your old job, I mean. The fancy podcast thing.”
For a moment, you hesitated. You could still remember it clearly—the studio, the buzz of the city outside, the adrenaline rush of knowing your audience was hanging on to your every word.
“It was…” you began, searching for the right word. “It was everything I wanted, for a while. I worked my way up, you know? Started small, built an audience, found my voice. It was a grind, but it was worth it.”
Beomgyu nodded, his expression more serious now. “So what went wrong?”
You sighed, tracing your finger along the rim of your cup. “They wanted to ‘freshen things up.’ Change the direction of the show. Apparently, a guy hosting would bring in a ‘different perspective.’”
“That’s bullshit,” Beomgyu said immediately, his brow furrowing.
“Yeah, well, tell that to them.” You shrugged, masking the sting with a bitter smile. “They thought it was a good idea. I didn’t.”
“Idiots,” Beomgyu muttered, shaking his head. “You’re way better at this than some random guy.”
“Thanks,” you said, a small smile creeping onto your face. “I’ll remind them of that when they come groveling.”
Then the clock on the wall chimed, reminding you it was time to start the show.
“Alright, back to work,” you said, standing up and stretching. “Don’t let me catch you slacking, Beomgyu.”
“Me? Slack? Never,” he replied, mock-offended as he followed you toward the booth.
The show started as usual—smooth, easy, familiar. The first few callers were locals sharing urban legends, strange encounters, and the occasional eerie coincidence. Beomgyu stayed in his booth across from you, laughing silently at your quips and holding up cards with goofy doodles to make you break character mid-recording.
But then, midway through the second hour, a call came through that made your stomach drop.
Beomgyu patched it through with his usual nonchalance, giving you a thumbs-up from the other side of the glass. “Line three,” he mouthed.
“Hello,” you said into the mic, your voice steady despite the sudden shift in the air. “You’re on the air. What’s your name, and what story do you have for us tonight?”
There was a long pause. Too long. Static crackled faintly on the other end.
Then, a voice you didn’t recognize—low, and far too calm—spoke.
“Do you ever wonder if someone’s watching you right now?”
Your heart skipped a beat. You forced a laugh, playing it off for your listeners. “Well, I guess I should hope so—otherwise, what’s the point of doing a live show?”
The voice didn’t laugh. “No,” it said. “I mean really watching you. Right now.”
Goosebumps rose on your arms. You glanced toward Beomgyu, who raised an eyebrow, clearly unsure where this was going.
“I think that’s a little too vague to count as a story,” you said, keeping your tone light. “Care to elaborate?”
The line went silent for a moment, then the voice spoke again, quieter this time.
“Check your window.”
Your blood ran cold. You turned instinctively to the window beside your booth. It was dark outside, the glass reflecting nothing but the dim glow of your equipment.
Nothing was there.
But the voice on the other end of the line chuckled softly, sending a chill down your spine.
“Gotcha,” it said, before the call abruptly disconnected.
Beomgyu’s voice crackled through your headphones, pulling you out of the eerie fog left by the last caller.
“That was… weird,” he said, leaning closer to his mic in the booth across from you. You could see his reflection in the glass, brow furrowed in confusion. “I mean, what window? We’re on the second floor. Unless there’s some really tall guy with a ladder out there, what the hell was that supposed to mean?”
A nervous laugh escaped you as you reached for your cup of water, trying to shake off the chill creeping up your spine. “Right? Probably some wannabe prank caller. People love to act spooky when they know they’re live.”
“Yeah, but that voice?” Beomgyu leaned back, tapping his fingers against his desk. “It didn’t sound like someone joking. It sounded… I don’t know. Off.”
“Let’s not overthink it,” you said, though you couldn’t deny the unease settling in your chest. “Weird calls are part of the job, right? It’s probably nothing.”
Beomgyu nodded slowly, but his usual playful grin didn’t return. His eyes flickered to the window behind you, then back to his desk as if trying to distract himself.
Before either of you could dwell on it further, the phone lit up again. Another call.
“Line two,” Beomgyu said, pressing the button to patch it through.
You straightened in your seat, slipping your headphones back on. “You’re on the air. What’s your name, and what story do you have for us tonight?”
This time, the voice on the other end was hurried, shaky, and unmistakably real.
“This is Officer Park from the Greenfield Police Department,” a woman said, her words tumbling out in a rush. “I—God, I don’t even know who else to call right now. I just got back to the station—was out getting donuts for the night shift—and when I walked in, I found…”
She stopped, her voice catching on a sob. Your stomach twisted.
“You found what?” you asked gently, exchanging a wide-eyed glance with Beomgyu through the glass.
“Two of the officers—two of my coworkers,” the woman stammered. “They’ve been stabbed. One of them… one of them’s already gone. The other one is still alive, barely. I called for backup, but closest units are at least five hours away, and I don’t know what to do.”
Beomgyu’s jaw dropped as he mouthed, Is this for real?
You swallowed hard, gripping the edge of your desk. “Okay, Officer Park, take a deep breath,” you said, your tone steady even though your heart was racing. “Are you somewhere safe right now?”
“Yes,” she said, her breath hitching. “I locked myself in the back office. But whoever did this—they could still be here. I didn’t see anyone when I came in, but… Oh, God, what if they’re still inside?”
You leaned closer to your mic, your voice low but firm. “Okay, listen to me. First, you did the right thing by calling for backup. Stay where you are, keep the door locked, and don’t make any noise. Do you have your weapon on you?”
“Yes,” she said quickly.
“Good,” you said. “And the officer who’s still alive—do you know if they’re in immediate danger? Can you hear or see them from where you are?”
“They’re out in the main lobby,” she replied, her voice trembling. “I can hear them—barely. They’re trying to say something, but I can’t make it out. I think they’re losing consciousness.”
Your pulse quickened as you considered the situation. This wasn’t just some urban legend or creepy caller—this was real, and someone’s life was on the line.
“Okay, Officer Park, here’s what we’re going to do,” you said, keeping your tone as calm as possible. “Do you have anything with you—first aid supplies, even a jacket—anything you can use to stabilize them if you go out there?”
“There’s a med kit in the office,” she said.
“Good. Grab it. But listen—only go out there if you’re sure it’s safe. Move quickly, quietly, and keep your weapon ready. Check the corners, and don’t let your guard down. If you hear or see anything suspicious, you come right back to the office and lock the door. Do you understand?”
There was a long pause. Then she whispered, “Okay. I’ll try.”
“Stay on the line with us,” you said, glancing at Beomgyu, who was already typing furiously on his laptop, probably trying to look up news reports or police scanner updates. “We’re not going anywhere.”
You could hear her moving, her breathing shaky but determined as she whispered, “I’m opening the door.”
Your own breath hitched as you listened to the faint creak of a door opening on her end.
“I don’t hear anything,” she said softly. “I’m stepping out now.”
The seconds dragged on like hours as you listened to her footsteps, the faint hum of fluorescent lights buzzing in the background.
“I see him,” she whispered. “He’s—oh, God, he’s bleeding so much. I’m going to try to stop it.”
You could hear her fumbling with the med kit, her voice barely audible as she muttered, “Stay with me, okay? Stay with me. Help is on the way.”
Your pulse pounded as Officer Park’s frantic movements came through the line. You forced yourself to keep your voice steady, trying to calm both her and yourself.
"Officer Park," you said firmly, leaning closer to the mic. "Listen to me. You need to arm yourself before doing anything else. Do you have access to any weapons right now?"
She hesitated for a moment, her breathing quick. "There’s a weapons locker in the office, but the keys are… they’re on one of the officers."
“Okay. You need to get those keys from the officer who…” You paused, forcing yourself to stay calm. “The officer who’s gone. You’ll need them if you’re going to get out of there alive. And when backup arrives, they’ll need you armed.”
“I already told you,” she whispered sharply. “Backup isn’t coming anytime soon. This is a small town. The nearest station is in the next county over—at least five hours away.”
The weight of her words settled like a stone in your chest. “Then you need to leave now,” you said. “You’ll have to meet them halfway, but you can’t just stay there. Take the surviving officer and get out of the station. Use the police cruiser. Are the keys to the car with the officers too?”
“Probably,” she said, voice shaking.
“Then get them,” you urged. “Check the pockets of the officer who…” You hesitated again, but there wasn’t time for gentleness. “Who’s already gone.”
There was a long pause, followed by a shaky exhale. “Okay,” she whispered. “I’ll do it.”
You could hear her moving again, her footsteps echoing faintly. Then, muffled rustling as she moved the officer’s body.
“I’ve got them,” she said after a moment, her voice tight. “The car keys. And…” She paused, the sound of a locker creaking open coming through the line. “Weapons. I’ve got pepper spray, a taser, and a baton. Which one should I take?”
You exchanged a glance with Beomgyu, who shrugged helplessly. “The taser,” you said decisively. “It’s your best option for close combat if the killer comes back. You’ll still have the element of surprise.”
“Alright,” she said, her voice steadier now. “I’m taking the taser. And the med kit. I’m going to try to move Officer Kim to the car.”
“Be careful,” you said, your voice soft but firm. “Check your surroundings constantly. Keep the taser in your hand. And whatever you do, stay quiet.”
You listened in tense silence as she dragged the injured officer toward the car, her breaths labored but determined. The sound of a car door opening reached your ears, followed by the faint groans of the wounded officer being carefully placed in the back seat.
“I’ve got him in the car,” Officer Park said, her voice barely above a whisper. “I’m about to start it.”
“Good,” you said. “Start it quietly and get out of there as fast as you can.”
But just as the engine sputtered to life, a haunting whistle cut through the air, sending a shiver down your spine. It was distant but unmistakable—low and drawn out, carrying an almost mocking tone.
“Oh, God,” she whispered, panic creeping back into her voice. “They’re here. The killer’s here.”
You leaned forward, gripping the edge of the desk. “Stay calm,” you said. “Lock the doors. Don’t move until you know it’s safe. If they come close, use the taser.”
Through the line, you heard faint footsteps and the sound of shouts—angry, guttural, and close. Then a scuffle broke out.
“They’re trying to break into the car!” Officer Park shouted, her voice shaking with fear and adrenaline.
“Use the taser!” you yelled. “Now!”
There was a loud crackling sound, followed by a strangled scream.
“It worked!” she cried out, her voice bursting with relief. “The taser worked! They’re down!”
A second later, the engine roared to life, and the sound of the car speeding away filled the line.
“Are you okay?” you asked breathlessly.
“I’m okay,” she said, her voice shaking but determined. “We’re leaving. I’m heading to the next town over to meet the backup units. It’s about five hours from here—less if I push it.”
“Good,” you said, exhaling slowly. “Just stay safe and focus on the road.”
“One more thing,” she added, her tone suddenly serious. “The emergency police line—it’s been rerouted to you. I couldn’t risk leaving the station unattended, so if anyone in town calls for help, it’ll go to your line instead.”
You froze, glancing at Beomgyu, who stared back at you with wide eyes.
“Wait,” you said, your stomach sinking. “What are we supposed to do if the killer targets someone else?”
“You’re going to have to help them,” she said grimly. “Until we can get backup to the town, you’re the only ones who can.”
The line went dead, leaving you and Beomgyu sitting in stunned silence, the weight of her words settling over you like a storm cloud.
“Uh… what the hell just happened?” Beomgyu finally said, his voice cracking slightly.
You didn’t answer, your mind racing as you stared at the blinking lights on the phone.
Somewhere out there, the killer was still on the loose. And now, the entire town was counting on you.
After a while the familiar ring of the phone jolted you from your thoughts, the sudden sound piercing the tense silence that had settled in the booth. Beomgyu’s voice crackled through your headphones.
“Line three,” he said.
You nodded to Beomgyu, signaling for him to patch it through.
“You’re on the air,” you said, adjusting your mic.
“I—oh, no, no, I think I called the wrong number,” a woman stammered, her voice trembling. “I was trying to call the police. There’s—there’s someone after me.”
Your heart sank as you exchanged a quick glance with Beomgyu through the glass. “You didn’t call the wrong number,” you explained quickly. “The emergency line is being rerouted to us temporarily. But you’re not alone—we’re here to help. Just tell us where you are and what’s happening.”
The woman hesitated for a moment, her breath audible over the line. “I just left the gym. I’m trying to get to my car, but there’s this… man. He’s following me. He has a knife, I’m sure of it.”
A faint whistle echoed in the background of the call, making the hairs on your arms stand on end. The woman gasped, her voice rising in panic.
“Oh, God,” she whispered. “I should’ve stayed home. Why didn’t I stay home?”
You leaned forward, gripping the edge of the desk tightly. “Listen to me,” you said, keeping your voice calm and steady despite the anxiety bubbling in your chest. “Don’t stop. Keep moving toward your car. You can do this.”
“I’m scared,” she admitted, her voice breaking.
“I know,” you said softly. “But you’re doing great. Just keep going. Focus on your breathing and keep moving. We’re not going anywhere—we’ve got you.”
The sound of her hurried footsteps came through the line, along with her ragged breathing.
“I see my car,” she said, relief creeping into her voice. “I’m almost there.”
You let out a breath you hadn’t realized you were holding. “Good. Get in and lock the doors immediately. Don’t worry about starting it until you’re inside and safe.”
A moment later, there was the faint sound of a car door opening and slamming shut.
“I made it,” she said, exhaling shakily. “I’m in.”
“Great job,” you said, feeling a small surge of relief. “Now start the car and drive somewhere safe—”
“Oh, no,” she interrupted, her voice rising in panic again. “No, no, no! I—I forgot my keys. They’re still in the gym!”
Your stomach dropped.
Beomgyu’s voice came through your headphones before you could respond. “Wait,” he said, leaning closer to his mic. “One guy—one who works here. I’ve seen him reading magazines about car maintenance in the breakroom. He might’ve had something about starting a car without keys.”
You blinked at him, hope flickering. “Are you sure?”
“Positive,” Beomgyu said. “I saw him reading one earlier this week.”
You muted the line to the woman briefly, turning back to Beomgyu. “Where did he leave it?”
“Probably in his office,” Beomgyu said with a shrug. “You’ll have to look for it.”
With a deep breath, you stood up. “Keep her talking. Keep her calm until I get back,” you said, pulling off your headphones.
Beomgyu gave you a thumbs up as you left the booth, closing the door behind you.
You made your way toward the offices, your footsteps echoing softly on the tiled floor. The darkened corridors seemed to stretch endlessly, but you finally reached the office. The door creaked as you pushed it open.
The room was cluttered, papers and other stuff scattered across the desks. You rifled through the mess, searching for the magazine Beomgyu had mentioned, but it was nowhere to be found.
Sighing, you were about to give up when a folded piece of paper caught your eye on the desk. Curious, you unfolded it.
Borrowed the car magazine for some light reading. Left it in the bathroom. -J
You frowned, squinting at the note. The bathroom? Of course.
Taking a deep breath, you headed toward the men’s bathroom, the unease in your chest growing with each step. Standing outside the door, you hesitated for a moment before pushing it open.
The air inside was still, the lights flickering slightly. You scanned the room, your eyes landing on the floor of one of the stalls. Sure enough, there it was—a magazine, its glossy cover faintly reflecting the dim light.
Bracing yourself, you stepped into the stall and grabbed it. Clutching the magazine, you made your way back to the booth as quickly as possible, the tension in your chest finally easing as the familiar glow of the studio came into view.
Sliding back into your seat, you slipped on your headphones. “Got it,” you said, flipping through the pages.
“About time,” Beomgyu muttered, relief in his voice. “She’s still in the car. Freaking out, but holding it together.”
“Alright,” you said, scanning the pages for anything useful. “Let’s get her out of there.”
You flipped quickly through the magazine, scanning each page for something useful. Beomgyu, still connected to the call, was murmuring reassurances to the woman, keeping her calm as best as he could. Finally, near the back of the magazine, you spotted a section titled: “How to Start a Car Without Keys—In Emergencies Only!”
Bingo.
You unmuted the call, speaking quickly. “Okay, I’ve got instructions here. It’s a little complicated, but we’re going to get you out of there. Are you ready to listen?”
“Y-yeah,” she stammered, her voice shaking. “Please, just tell me what to do.”
“Alright. First, do you see the steering column? You’ll need to take off the plastic cover underneath it.”
“The plastic cover?” she repeated, her voice filled with uncertainty.
“Yes. There should be a seam where it comes apart. Can you find it?”
There was a rustling sound, followed by a faint click. “I—I see it. I think I can pry it open.”
“Good. Use anything sharp—a nail file, a keychain, anything to pop it off,” you instructed.
A few tense seconds passed, the sound of fumbling and grunting filling the line.
“Got it!” she said suddenly. “It’s off.”
“Perfect. Now, you should see some wires underneath,” you continued, flipping the magazine around to get a better look at the diagram. “There will be three sets: power, ignition, and ground. Look for the ones connected to the ignition—they’re usually red and yellow. Do you see them?”
“Wait… yes, yes, I see them!” she said, her breathing slightly more controlled now.
“Okay, here’s the tricky part,” you said carefully. “You need to strip the ends of the ignition wires—just the plastic coating—so the metal is exposed. Do you have anything sharp, like a knife or scissors?”
“Uh… I have a nail file,” she said after a moment.
“That works. Carefully scrape the plastic off, but don’t cut the wires. Just expose the metal underneath. Take your time.”
The sound of her scraping at the wires filled the silence, and you exchanged a nervous glance with Beomgyu, who gave you a reassuring nod.
“Alright,” she said finally. “I’ve got the wires stripped. What now?”
“Good. Now you’re going to twist the exposed ends of the ignition wires together. That should create a spark to start the car. But be ready—the second it starts, drive away. Don’t wait around.”
“Okay,” she whispered. “I’m doing it now.”
There was a faint crackling sound, followed by a sputtering noise. Then, suddenly, the low rumble of an engine filled the line.
“It worked!” she cried, her voice breaking with relief. “It actually worked!”
“Great job!” you said, unable to stop the smile forming on your face. “Now get out of there. Drive somewhere safe—somewhere well-lit with other people around. Don’t stop until you’re absolutely sure you’re safe.”
You could hear the roar of the car accelerating, the relief in her voice evident as she spoke. “I’m driving now. Oh, my God, thank you. Thank you so much.”
“You’re doing great,” you said, your own voice shaking slightly from the adrenaline. “Just focus on the road. Call us back if anything happens, okay?”
“Okay. I will,” she said. “Thank you again. I—I think I might’ve been dead if it weren’t for you.”
“Just keep driving,” you said softly. “That’s all that matters now.”
The line clicked off, leaving you and Beomgyu alone in the booth. For a moment, the two of you sat in silence.
Beomgyu let out a low whistle. “I can’t believe that actually worked.”
“Me neither,” you admitted, tossing the magazine onto the desk. “But if it hadn’t… I don’t even want to think about it.”
Beomgyu leaned back in his chair, exhaling deeply. “So… what do we do if someone else calls?”
You didn’t have an answer, your thoughts already spiraling with what-ifs. All you could do was hope the rest of the night stayed quiet.
The phone rang again, its shrill tone cutting through the uneasy silence that had settled in the booth. You adjusted your mic and nodded to Beomgyu. He patched it through with a flick of a switch, signaling with his finger for you to go ahead.
“You’re on the air,” you said, your voice steady despite the lingering tension from the last call.
“Hey, yeah, uh, is this the emergency line?” a cheery voice on the other end asked.
“Yes, this is the emergency line. What’s your situation?” you asked, leaning forward, bracing yourself for whatever this might be.
“Well,” the man began, his tone casual, “I just wanted to let everyone know that Hanseung’s Pizza is open late tonight, and we’re offering a two-for-one deal on our large pepperoni pies!”
You froze, your hand gripping the edge of the desk. “Are you serious right now?”
“Totally serious! Best pizza in town!”
You groaned audibly and disconnected the call before the man could say another word. Leaning back in your chair, you rubbed your temples as Beomgyu snorted with laughter.
When you glanced at him through the glass, he made a circular gesture next to his temple, miming crazy.
“I swear,” you muttered, pulling your headphones off briefly, “this night is going to kill me.”
Beomgyu gave you a lopsided grin, but before he could say anything, the phone rang again.
“Here we go,” he said, flipping the switch to route the call to you.
You sighed, sliding your headphones back on. “You’re on the air,” you said cautiously.
“H-hello?” a man’s voice came through, low and shaky.
“This is the emergency line,” you said gently. “What’s going on?”
“I—I’m still at work,” the man said, his words trembling as he spoke. “I stayed late to finish up inventory, and I… I saw someone on the cameras. He’s outside. He’s wearing a white mask, and he’s holding a knife. He’s on the first floor now.”
Your heart sank as a chill ran down your spine. “Okay, stay calm,” you said quickly. “Where are you right now?”
“I’m on the second floor,” he said. “In the main office. But… but there’s nowhere to hide. The only room I can lock is the storage closet, and the lock is on the outside. What do I do?”
You frowned, running a hand through your hair as you exchanged a tense glance with Beomgyu. “Alright, listen to me. We’re going to figure this out. Let’s think through this carefully.”
“I don’t have much time,” the man whispered, panic rising in his voice. “He’s coming in. I can see him on the camera feed.”
You flipped through options in your mind, trying to think of anything that could give him a chance. The storage room could work, but locking it from the outside meant he’d be trapping himself unless…
“Wait,” you said suddenly. “Does your office phone system let you call internal lines? Like phones in other rooms?”
“Yes,” the man said quickly. “I can call any phone in the building from here.”
“Perfect,” you said, sitting up straighter. “Here’s the plan. We’re going to distract him. You’re going to call one of the phones on the first floor, and when it rings, he’ll go to investigate. Once he’s distracted, you’re going to quietly make your way down the back staircase and get out of the building. Got it?”
“Okay, okay,” the man said, his breathing quick and shallow. “I can do that. I think.”
“You can do this,” you said firmly. “Now, do you know which phone to call?”
“Yes,” he said. “The one by the front desk. It’s closest to where he is.”
“Good. Call it now,” you instructed. “Once it starts ringing, wait a few seconds to make sure he’s moving toward it. Then make your way out. Go as quietly as you can. Don’t hang up until you’re outside and safe, alright?”
“Okay,” he whispered.
There was a pause as you heard him pressing buttons on the phone. A few seconds later, the faint sound of a phone ringing echoed faintly through his line.
“He’s moving,” the man whispered. “I can see him on the camera. He’s going to the front desk.”
“Perfect,” you said, keeping your voice calm. “Now’s your chance. Go.”
The sound of his shaky breathing filled the line as he moved. You held your breath, listening intently as he made his way down the stairs.
“He’s still at the desk,” the man whispered. “I’m almost at the back door.”
“Keep going,” you urged. “You’re doing great.”
A faint creak came through the line, followed by a quiet click.
“I’m outside,” the man said, his voice trembling with relief. “I’m out.”
You exhaled, the tension in your chest loosening slightly. “Good. Get as far away from the building as you can. Get somewhere safe with other people around.”
“Thank you,” he said, his voice breaking. “Thank you so much.”
“Just stay safe,” you said softly. “That’s all that matters.”
The line disconnected, leaving you staring at the phone for a moment, your mind racing with the implications of what had just happened.
Beomgyu leaned back in his chair, letting out a low whistle. “That’s two lives saved tonight,” he said. “Not bad for a couple of radio hosts, huh?”
You gave him a shaky smile, but the thought lingering in your mind was anything but reassuring.
Whoever was out there wasn’t done yet.
The phone rang again. For a moment, you and Beomgyu exchanged wary glances through the glass between your booths. After everything tonight, you’d learned to expect the worst. With a deep breath, you answered.
“You’re on the air,” you said, trying to maintain your composure.
“Bravo,” a smooth, amused voice purred on the other end. “Really. I’m impressed.”
Your brow furrowed. “Excuse me?”
“The way you’ve been handling these calls tonight,” the man continued, his tone dripping with mock admiration. “Guiding these poor, helpless souls to safety. It’s been a pleasure to listen to. You’re very clever, you know that?”
Something about his voice set you on edge—it wasn’t rushed or panicked like the others you’d spoken to tonight. It was calm. Too calm.
“Who is this?” you asked, your voice tightening.
“Let’s just say I’m… someone who’s been keeping an eye on things,” he replied, his tone playful. “And I have to admit, you’ve made my night much more entertaining than I anticipated.”
Your stomach twisted as realization hit you like a punch to the gut. “It’s you,” you said, your voice barely above a whisper.
A low chuckle came through the line, and it sent a shiver down your spine. “Took you long enough,” he said, his voice laced with mockery. “Yes, it’s me. The one you’ve been so desperately trying to outsmart all night. And I have to say, you’ve done quite well.”
You clenched your jaw, gripping the edge of the desk so tightly your knuckles turned white. “Why are you calling?”
“To see you squirm,” he teased. “And to thank you, of course. You’ve made this little game so much more fun than I thought it would be. Honestly, you’re much more entertaining than the usual people around here. They’re so… predictable.”
You refused to let him get under your skin, even as his voice sent an unbidden flush to your cheeks. You hated the way his words made your pulse quicken, a reaction you absolutely didn’t want to have.
“Is that all this is to you? A game?” you snapped, trying to focus on your anger rather than the unsettling heat rising in your face.
“Of course it’s a game,” he said smoothly. “But don’t misunderstand me—I’m not underestimating you. In fact, I think you’re the most interesting piece on the board. I wonder… how long can you keep this up? How long before I catch you slipping?”
Your cheeks burned, and you quickly forced yourself to focus. You couldn’t let him distract you with his taunting, no matter how strangely… confident and alluring his voice sounded. You hadn’t thought about dating or men since moving to the town—your life had been far too busy. And now here you were, getting flustered by the very man terrorizing the town.
“Do you have anything better to do than terrorize people?” you shot back, your voice sharper than you intended.
He chuckled again, low and lazy, like you’d just amused him. “You’re cute when you’re mad,” he said, and you nearly choked on your own breath.
“Excuse me?!”
“Oh, don’t get so defensive,” he said, clearly enjoying himself. “I’m just saying, it’s refreshing. I like a bit of fire in my conversations. The others? They just scream and cry. Boring. But not you. I like that.”
Your grip on the desk tightened further, your mind racing. You couldn’t let him get to you, but the way he spoke—like he was in complete control, like he knew exactly how to unnerve you—it was maddening.
“What do you want?” you asked finally, forcing your voice to stay calm.
“For now? Just to chat,” he said casually. “I thought you deserved some recognition for your efforts. And maybe a little warning…”
Your stomach churned. “A warning?”
“Mhm,” he murmured. “You’re clever, but don’t think you’re untouchable. I’ve been generous so far, letting you play the hero. But don’t get too comfortable. I’m always watching, and if you’re not careful, this little game of ours might get a whole lot more personal.”
Your heart hammered in your chest, but you refused to let your fear show. “Is that supposed to scare me?”
“No,” he said simply. “It’s supposed to excite you.”
The line went dead before you could respond, leaving you staring at the phone, your mind a chaotic mess of fear, anger, and, much to your dismay, something else you didn’t want to name.
Beomgyu’s voice crackled through your headset. “Uh… what the hell just happened?”
You turned to look at him, your face still flushed. “I think the killer just… flirted with me?”
Beomgyu blinked, his mouth falling open slightly before he shook his head. “This town is actually so messed up.”
You couldn’t help but agree.
The phone rang again, piercing through the tense silence that had settled in the booth. You and Beomgyu exchanged a glance, both of you bracing yourselves for whatever might come next. You adjusted your headphones and gestured for him to patch it through.
“You’re on the air,” you said, your voice steady despite the unease crawling up your spine.
“H-he’s coming,” a woman’s voice stammered, her tone high-pitched and frantic. “Oh God, the dead—they’ve risen! The dead are rising!”
You froze, caught off guard by the sheer hysteria in her voice. “Ma’am, I need you to take a deep breath and tell me what’s happening,” you said, keeping your tone calm and firm. “Who’s coming? What do you mean the dead are rising?”
“It’s karma,” she said, her words tumbling out in a panicked rush. “I’ve done bad things. So many bad things. And now he’s coming for me."
“Okay, I need you to slow down,” you urged, sitting forward in your chair. “Where are you right now? Are you safe?”
“I thought I was,” she whimpered, her voice breaking. “But he’s here. He’s come back. They know what I’ve done. He knows—”
The line went dead.
“Hello? Ma’am?” you said quickly, checking the call screen. You tried dialing the number back, your heart pounding, but the line just rang and rang before going to voicemail.
Beomgyu leaned forward in his booth, frowning as he studied the call log. “That was Dr. Lee,” he said, his voice low.
“Dr. Lee?” you asked, your mind racing.
“She’s one of the town’s doctors,” Beomgyu explained, crossing his arms. “Well… was a doctor. She retired a couple of years ago, but she still gets called in sometimes when the clinic’s short-staffed. People around here have… mixed feelings about her. Some say she’s a great doctor, but others think she’s shady. There’ve been rumors, but nothing ever proven.”
You sat back in your chair, your mind swirling with questions. “She kept saying ‘karma.’ And something about the dead coming for her.”
Beomgyu shrugged, though his expression was uneasy. “She sounded genuinely freaked out.”
“She did,” you muttered, staring at the dead call screen on your monitor. “And she didn’t give me anything to go on. No location, no details… I don’t even know if she’s still alive.”
Beomgyu leaned back in his chair, spinning a pen between his fingers. “Think we should call the clinic? Maybe someone there knows what’s going on.”
You shook your head, though the idea was tempting. “If she wanted their help, she would’ve called them instead of us. I think… I think whatever’s happening, she doesn’t trust anyone in town. Or maybe she thought calling the emergency line was her only option.”
“Well, what do we do now?” Beomgyu asked, though his tone suggested he already knew the answer.
You sighed, rubbing your temples. “There’s not much we can do. She didn’t give us enough information to help. All we can do is wait and see if she calls back.”
Beomgyu nodded reluctantly, though his frown deepened. “Still, the whole ‘dead are rising’ thing? Sounds like someone’s cracking under pressure. Or maybe she’s just paranoid.”
“Maybe,” you said, though her words kept echoing in your mind. The dead have risen. Karma is coming for me.
It sounded ridiculous, but the sheer terror in her voice had felt real. And in this town, you’d already learned to expect the unexpected.
You leaned back in your chair, staring as a heavy silence settled over the room. You hated this helpless feeling, this sense that something was happening just out of your reach. But until she called back—or someone else did—there was nothing you could do except wait.
And worry.
The phone rang again, and you didn’t hesitate to answer this time, though the tension from the earlier calls still lingered in the air like a bad omen.
“You’re on the air,” you said, trying to sound calm and professional, though the weight of the night was starting to press down on you.
“H-hello?” a young voice stammered. “Is this… is this the emergency line?”
“Yes, it is,” you replied quickly. “Who am I speaking to?”
“Hyein,” she answered, her voice trembling. “I—I need help. Someone’s after me and my friends.”
Your stomach dropped. “Where are you, Hyein? Are you somewhere safe?”
“We’re at… we’re at this old junkyard,” she said, her words tumbling out in a rush. “We were just hanging out, but now there’s this guy—he’s wearing a white mask, and—”
“Okay, Hyein, listen to me,” you interrupted, keeping your voice steady. “You need to find somewhere safe. Is there a place you can hide? A building, a car, anything?”
“Um, there’s a shed,” she said, her voice shaky. “But—”
Suddenly, a piercing scream erupted through the line, making your heart lurch.
“Hyein? Hyein, what’s happening?”
There was a muffled commotion on the other end, followed by… laughter?
A new voice chimed in, a boy’s voice, cracking as he burst into fits of giggles. “Oh my God, you should’ve seen your face, Hyein!”
“What the hell, Jansoon?!” Hyein shouted, her fear quickly replaced by anger. “You scared the crap out of me!”
You exhaled slowly, feeling your shoulders relax slightly. “Hyein, what’s going on?”
“It’s just Jansoon,” she said, her voice still shaking but now tinged with irritation. “He’s being an idiot, running around with a fake knife and a stupid mask. I thought—”
But before she could finish, another scream cut through the air—this one high-pitched and blood-curdling.
“Jansoon? Jansoon, stop messing around!” Hyein shouted, her voice rising in panic.
Then came the sound of something wet and grotesque—a sickening squelch, followed by the unmistakable sound of a body hitting the ground.
“Oh my God,” Hyein whispered, her voice trembling again. “Run! Everyone, run inside!”
“Hyein! Hyein, what’s happening?” you demanded, gripping the edge of the desk.
“A man,” she whispered, her breath hitching. “A man in a white mask—he just—he just killed Jansoon. He killed him!”
Your stomach churned as Beomgyu’s eyes went wide in the booth across from you.
“Hyein, listen to me,” you said quickly, trying to keep your voice steady. “You need to get somewhere safe. Stay with your friends and lock yourselves in. Keep the line open—”
“No,” she interrupted, her voice shaky but determined. “We… we’re setting up a plan. We’ll distract him so we can get away. I’ll call you back soon.”
“Hyein, wait—”
The line went dead.
You sat there for a moment, staring at the monitor as your heart hammered in your chest. Slowly, you took off your headset and set it down on the desk, letting out a shaky breath.
“Did that really just happen?” Beomgyu asked, his voice breaking the heavy silence.
“Yeah,” you muttered, leaning back in your chair. “It did.”
Beomgyu ran a hand through his hair, shaking his head. “This town is insane. First the doctor, now a group of kids in a junkyard? What’s next, a clown at a carnival?”
You couldn’t help but let out a dry, humorless laugh. “Don’t jinx it.”
He sighed, leaning back in his booth and staring at the ceiling. “This is so stressful. I mean, we’re just two people in a radio station. We’re not trained for this.”
“No, we’re not,” you agreed, rubbing your temples. “But we’re all these people have right now.”
Beomgyu nodded, though his expression was grim. “I just hope that girl and her friends make it out. That killer… he’s not messing around.”
The phone rang again, and this time, your heart jumped in anticipation. You quickly signaled to Beomgyu, who patched the call through.
“Hyein?” you asked urgently.
“It’s me,” she whispered, her voice trembling but steadier than before. “We—we’ve got a plan. We’re going to get out of here.”
You exhaled in relief but quickly focused. “Okay, what’s the plan?”
“There are four of us left,” she explained. “Minji’s going to watch him, make sure we know where he is at all times. Jaemin is going to distract him—make noise and lead him away from the van. Doyeon’s going to act as bait, keeping his attention long enough for me to grab Jansoon’s keys and get the van started.”
You felt a mix of pride and fear for these kids. “That’s… brave, Hyein. Really brave. Are you sure you can pull this off?”
“We don’t have a choice,” she replied, her voice tightening. “We can’t just wait for him to find us all. We have to do something.”
“Okay,” you said, nodding even though she couldn’t see you. “Stick to the plan. Be quick, be careful, and don’t hesitate. You can do this.”
“Thanks,” she whispered. “I’ll call you back once we’re out.”
The line disconnected, leaving you and Beomgyu in an anxious silence.
“They’re kids,” Beomgyu muttered, shaking his head. “They shouldn’t have to deal with this.”
“I know,” you said quietly, your eyes fixed on the monitor as if willing Hyein to call back with good news.
Minutes felt like hours as you waited, your mind racing with every worst-case scenario. Finally, the phone rang again.
“Hyein?” you answered quickly.
“We did it,” she said, her voice breathless but triumphant. “We did the plan. Minji kept an eye on him while Jaemin distracted him with a bunch of noise. He fell for it—totally chased after Jaemin. Then Doyeon lured him even further away, and I grabbed the keys.”
“That’s incredible,” you said, genuine admiration in your voice. “You’re all so brave.”
She let out a shaky laugh. “Yeah, well, it’s not over yet. We got the van started, but there’s a problem. The doors to the junkyard—they’re stuck. Someone has to hold them open so we can drive through.”
Your heart sank. “Who’s going to do it?”
“I volunteered,” she said quietly.
“Hyein—”
“It’s fine,” she interrupted. “I’ll be fine. I’ll call you back.”
The line went dead again, and you sat frozen, a deep dread settling over you.
Beomgyu leaned forward, his expression tight with worry. “They better not leave her behind.”
You didn’t respond, too focused on the gnawing feeling in your gut.
When the phone rang again, you answered immediately.
“Hyein?”
“I’m still here,” she said, her voice shaking. “I got the doors open, but…”
You heard her inhale sharply, and your stomach dropped.
“But what?” you asked.
“He’s here,” she whispered. “He’s right in front of me.”
Your grip tightened on the desk. “Hyein, listen to me. Don’t run. Don’t make any sudden moves. Just—just stay calm.”
She let out a choked sob. “I don’t want to die.”
“You’re not going to die,” you said firmly, though your own voice trembled. “Just keep talking to me, okay? You’re doing great.”
There was a long silence on the other end, broken only by her quiet, panicked breaths.
“Hyein?”
“He’s…” Her voice was barely audible now. “He’s walking away.”
“What?” you asked, your mind reeling.
“He just… turned around and walked off. Into the forest.”
You blinked, trying to process what she was saying. “He left you? Just like that?”
“Yes,” she whispered, her voice filled with confusion and fear. “Why? Why would he do that?”
You didn’t have an answer. None of this made sense.
“I don’t know,” you admitted finally. “But you’re alive, Hyein. That’s what matters. Get to safety. Get back to your friends.”
“Okay,” she said softly, though her voice was still trembling. “Thank you.”
When the call ended, you sat back in your chair, your mind spinning.
“What the hell was that?” Beomgyu asked, breaking the silence.
“I don’t know,” you muttered, staring at the empty screen. “But I don’t think we’ve seen the last of him.”
The clock on the wall ticked steadily, and the tension in the room hung like a heavy fog. It was 3:17 a.m. when the phone rang again, the sharp sound cutting through the oppressive silence.
You leaned forward and answered, trying to keep the fatigue out of your voice. "You’re on the air."
For a moment, there was just static and the faint sound of someone breathing. Then a male voice, low and shaky, spoke.
"This is... this is so scary," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.
You straightened in your seat, your exhaustion replaced by unease. "What’s scary? Can you tell me where you are?"
"I’m at home," he said. "But I keep hearing things outside. Footsteps. Whistling. I’ve locked all the doors and windows, but it doesn’t feel like enough. This… this town isn’t supposed to be like this. It’s supposed to be quiet. Safe."
You nodded, even though he couldn’t see you. "I understand. It’s been a rough night for everyone, but you’ve done the right thing by securing your home. Stay inside. Stay quiet. Do you have anyone you can call to stay with you?"
"No," he muttered. "I live alone."
His voice broke slightly on the last word, and your chest tightened. "Okay. Listen to me. You’re not alone right now, all right? I’m here. If anything happens, you call me back immediately."
There was a long pause before he whispered, "Thanks."
Then the line went dead.
You sighed, leaning back in your chair. Beomgyu, who had been silently watching you from his booth, gave you a small nod of acknowledgment.
"You’re handling this like a pro," he said.
"I’m just trying to keep people calm," you replied, though the weight of the night was starting to press down on you.
The hours crawled by, the silence in the studio broken only by the occasional hum of equipment and the distant sound of a car passing on the street. It was around 4:30 a.m. when the phone rang again.
Your heart leapt as you quickly picked it up. "You’re on the air."
"It’s me," a familiar voice said.
"Hyein?" you asked, relief flooding your voice.
"Yeah," she said, and you could hear the exhaustion in her tone. "We made it. We’re home. All of us, safe. Thanks to you."
A smile tugged at your lips, the first genuine one of the night. "That’s great to hear, Hyein. I’m so glad you’re all okay."
"You… you really helped us," she continued, her voice soft. "I don’t think we would’ve made it without you. I mean, we were so scared, but you kept us focused. Gave us hope."
"That was all you," you replied. "You and your friends were brave. You came up with a plan and stuck to it. You saved yourselves."
There was a pause, and then she said, "Still… thank you."
"Of course," you said, your voice warm. "Now, get some rest. You’ve earned it."
"I will," she promised. "Goodnight… and be careful, okay? I don’t think this is over."
"Goodnight, Hyein," you said softly before the line went dead.
You set the phone down and leaned back in your chair, exhaling slowly. Beomgyu looked over at you, his expression a mix of relief and exhaustion.
"At least there’s some good news," he said.
"Yeah," you murmured, though Hyein’s parting words echoed in your mind.
I don’t think this is over.
And deep down, you knew she was right.
The phone rang again, cutting through the brief calm. Unknown caller. You knew who it was even before you answered.
"Let me guess," you said, trying to keep your voice steady. "You’re calling to congratulate me on something, right?"
A soft, mocking chuckle came through the line, chilling and deliberate. "You’re starting to understand how this works," the killer said, his voice smooth, almost amused. "But no congratulations this time. Just a little... advice."
You gripped the phone tighter. "And what kind of advice would that be?"
"Dr. Lee," he drawled, his tone teasing. "She seemed... stressed earlier, didn’t she? Want to know what really happened to her?"
Your breath caught, and for a moment, you didn’t know what to say.
He chuckled again. "Pick something up for me, and maybe I’ll give you a clue. Check the alleyway behind your building. I left you a little surprise."
Beomgyu immediately leaned toward his microphone, shaking his head vehemently as he heard the exchange. “Don’t do it,” he mouthed, his face pale.
But the killer wasn’t done. "Go on," he said, his tone turning low and taunting. "Be brave. Or stay in your booth and let the mystery eat away at you. Your choice."
And then the line went dead.
"Don’t even think about it," Beomgyu said, his voice cutting through the silence. "He’s baiting you. It’s a trap."
You turned to him, trying to muster some confidence. "If it’s a trap, then it’s a bad one. He wouldn’t tip his hand like this if he really wanted me dead."
"Or maybe that’s exactly what he wants you to think," Beomgyu countered. "Don’t go."
But you were already getting up. "I’ll be fine. Stay here and keep the phones running."
Beomgyu sighed, muttering something under his breath that sounded suspiciously like “you’re insane.”
You left the booth, stepping into the hallway. The silence of the empty building was oppressive, and the faint hum of the fluorescent lights above did little to calm your nerves. Descending the staircase, each step felt louder than the last, echoing in the quiet.
At the bottom, you approached the glass front doors. Outside was nothing but darkness, the alleyway barely illuminated by a single flickering streetlamp in the distance.
You tried the door. Locked.
Frowning, you turned back and made your way behind the reception desk, where the backdoor led to the alleyway. Pushing it open, the cool night air hit you immediately, carrying with it the faint scent of rain and garbage.
The alley was narrow and lined with dumpsters, shadows stretching and shifting in the dim light. You hesitated, the weight of the situation settling on your shoulders.
Then, you saw it.
An old, stained mattress lay discarded against the wall, and on top of it was something that made your stomach drop—a bloodied ID card.
Your hands trembled as you approached, the name and face on the card coming into focus. Dr. Lee.
You bent down, your breath hitching as you picked it up. The blood was dry but unmistakable, the edges of the card sticky.
You turned it over in your hands, a cold dread creeping up your spine. What did this mean? Was she—
A rustling sound.
You froze, your heart hammering in your chest. Slowly, you looked up, scanning the alleyway. There was nothing.
But past the fence, just beyond the edge of the alley, you could feel it—someone was watching you.
The air seemed to thicken, your skin prickling with unease. You couldn’t see anyone, but the presence was unmistakable.
Swallowing hard, you clenched the ID card in your hand and straightened up, forcing your legs to move. You turned and walked back toward the door, refusing to look back, even as the sensation of being watched grew stronger.
You reached for the door handle, only to find it wouldn’t budge. Locked.
“Damn it,” you muttered under your breath, shaking the handle one more time as if sheer willpower could force it open. The sensation of being watched lingered, making the hairs on your neck stand on end.
The sound of something faintly rustling outside sent a jolt of panic through you. You turned away from the door, scanning the dimly lit alley for another option. That’s when your eyes landed on the basement access door.
You cursed under your breath, knowing it was your only choice. "Great," you mumbled sarcastically, stepping toward it. Pushing the creaky door open, you descended the narrow staircase. The air grew colder with each step, the faint smell of mildew and rust wrapping around you like a damp blanket.
At the bottom, you reached a landing, the dim glow of an old overhead light flickering ominously. Shadows danced across the walls, making everything feel smaller and more claustrophobic.
Trying the first door, you found it locked. So was the next. You kept moving, your footsteps echoing faintly in the eerie silence. Finally, you reached a door that opened easily.
You stepped inside cautiously, your phone flashlight illuminating what could only be described as the janitor’s office—or, more accurately, a forgotten relic of one. The room was cramped and chaotic, filled with old supplies, broken equipment, and… mannequins?
You froze for a moment, your light catching the lifeless forms of several mannequins standing in one corner. Their chipped paint and blank expressions made your stomach twist. Who keeps mannequins in a basement office?
“Okay,” you whispered to yourself, “this is officially creepy.”
Pushing past the eerie sight, your flashlight settled on the far wall, where a corkboard hung. You stepped closer, curiosity outweighing your unease.
The board was covered in newspaper clippings, photographs, and handwritten notes. Your pulse quickened as you scanned the array of items.
The photos were of people—townsfolk, by the looks of it. Some of the faces you recognized, including Dr. Lee. Others were strangers. Some pictures had red X’s drawn across them. Others were circled.
The clippings were just as unsettling. Headlines like “Local Man Disappears Without a Trace” and “Small-Town Tragedy: Young Man Found Dead” leapt out at you, along with handwritten notes like “Knew too much” and “Still watching.”
“Jesus,” you muttered, taking a step back.
You huffed, grabbing the corkboard from the wall and tucking it under your arm. Whatever this was, it wasn’t staying down here. You needed to get it upstairs, show Beomgyu, and figure out what the hell was going on.
The mannequins seemed closer than before as you turned to leave, but you tried to shake off the unease crawling up your spine.
"Don’t think about it," you muttered, stepping back out into the hallway.
With the corkboard in tow, you made your way back toward the stairs, trying not to think about how quiet everything felt.
Back in the booth, you placed the corkboard on the desk, your fingers trembling as you leaned over it. Beomgyu hovered behind you, peering at the chaotic arrangement of photos, clippings, and notes.
"Okay," you muttered, mostly to yourself. "This is a pattern. It has to be."
Your eyes scanned the board feverishly, focusing on the photos of the townsfolk. There were three with red X’s—you recognized two as victims you’d already heard about. The doctor’s photo, Dr. Lee, was circled in red but had no X, at least not yet.
The notes were cryptic but telling: "Knew too much." "Always works late."
Your heart skipped a beat as you landed on a photo of a man you vaguely recognized from a newspaper clipping you’d seen earlier—James Choi, the owner of the general store. His picture was circled too, with a note scribbled beside it: “Stays late, alone.”
You felt your stomach churn. “Beomgyu, who’s James Choi?”
Beomgyu squinted at the board. "James? Oh, he runs that little general store by the gas station. Nice guy, kind of quiet. Why?"
You jabbed your finger at his photo. “He’s next. Look at the notes. It’s all here—he works late, and the killer knows it. We need to call him now.”
Beomgyu grabbed the phone without hesitation, quickly dialing the number written on a post-it note you’d found pinned to the corner of the board. You paced nervously as the phone rang.
"Come on, pick up," Beomgyu muttered.
Finally, a voice answered. “Hello?”
“Mr. Choi?” Beomgyu asked, his voice tight. “This is from the late-night show—listen, we don’t have much time. Are you still at the store?”
James sounded confused. “Uh, yeah? Why? What’s this about?”
You leaned in, speaking quickly. “You’re in danger. You need to leave now. Grab your keys, get in your car, and just drive. Don’t ask questions, don’t wait—just go.”
There was a pause. “Danger? What are you talking about? This some kind of prank?”
“It’s not a prank,” you snapped, your voice rising in urgency. “There’s someone—”
The sound of something crashing interrupted James on the other end of the line, followed by a low, guttural noise that made your blood run cold.
“James?” Beomgyu called, his voice cracking. “James, what’s going on?”
The line went silent for a moment, the faint sound of labored breathing coming through. And then—
“Well, well,” came a familiar, taunting voice.
Your stomach dropped as the killer’s smooth, mocking tone filled the line. “You tried,” he said, almost lazily, like he had all the time in the world. “I’ll give you credit for that. But you’re just not fast enough, are you?”
Your hands clenched into fists. “You son of a—”
“Ah-ah,” the killer interrupted, a smirk evident in his voice. “No need for name-calling. I’m just doing what I do best. And you? Well, you’re doing what you do best—sitting in that little booth, thinking you can save people. How’s that working out for you so far?”
You swallowed hard, your throat tight. “Why are you doing this?”
He laughed, the sound cold and detached. “You really think I’m going to explain myself? What kind of killer would I be if I gave away all my secrets? Let’s just say… I like keeping you on your toes. It’s fun watching you try so hard.”
Beomgyu’s face was pale, his eyes wide as he stared at the phone. “You’re sick,” he muttered under his breath.
The killer ignored him. “Oh, and one more thing,” he said, his voice dropping to a chilling whisper. “The game’s far from over.”
And then the line went dead.
You stared at the phone, your heart pounding in your chest. Beomgyu looked at you, his face etched with fear.
“What do we do now?” he asked quietly.
You took a shaky breath, your mind racing. “We keep going. We figure this out.”
Beomgyu nodded, though his hands were trembling. "And what if we can’t?"
You didn’t answer. You couldn’t.
--
You sat hunched over the corkboard, piecing through the clues when Beomgyu cleared his throat, his voice hesitant. "Hey, maybe you should go back to the janitor’s room. There might be something we missed."
You glanced up at him, skeptical. “Like what? I already grabbed the corkboard.”
He shrugged, fidgeting with his pen. “I don’t know. It just feels like… that place might have more to it. There’s no way someone went through all the effort of pinning up all this stuff and didn’t leave more behind.”
You sighed, rubbing your temples. He wasn’t wrong. “Fine,” you said, pushing back from the desk. “I’ll check again. Just… stay here and keep an ear on the phones.”
Beomgyu nodded quickly, relief evident on his face. “Be careful, okay?”
You didn’t bother replying as you headed back downstairs, retracing your steps. The basement was even creepier now, the flickering light above casting strange, shifting shadows along the walls. Pushing the janitor's office door open again, you stepped inside, the stale air immediately making your nose crinkle.
The mannequins were still there, standing motionless in the corner like silent sentinels. You forced yourself to ignore them, focusing instead on the cluttered room. You rummaged through drawers, boxes, and even under the dusty desk, finding nothing but old cleaning supplies and forgotten tools.
Just as you were about to give up, your fingers brushed against something cold and metallic under a pile of papers. You pulled it out—a key, small and rusted, with no label.
“Okay,” you whispered to yourself, standing up and looking around. “What do you open?”
You left the janitor’s office and started trying the key on every locked door in the hallway. It wasn’t until you reached the very last door—a heavy, steel one with a faded "Storage" sign on it—that the key finally turned.
The lock clicked, and the door creaked open, revealing a dimly lit storage room filled with shelves of old files, boxes, and equipment. You stepped inside, the smell of dust and mildew filling your nose.
Grabbing your phone for light, you began rifling through the shelves. Most of it seemed mundane—inventory lists, outdated maintenance logs, and other boring documents. But then you found a box marked “Incident Reports.”
You opened it, pulling out a stack of files. One in particular caught your eye—a report on someone named Sim Jaeyun.
You skimmed the pages, your brow furrowing as you read. According to the report, Sim Jaeyun was a young man who had been found dead in the town’s river. The official cause of death was ruled as reckless behavior, with high levels of alcohol detected in his blood.
But something didn’t add up.
You found another document tucked in the back of the file—a copy of the autopsy report, signed by none other than Dr. Lee. The details in the report were vague, almost suspiciously so. It noted the alcohol levels but didn’t mention any other significant findings.
Flipping through more of the file, you found a handwritten note from a police officer who had initially investigated the scene: “Something doesn’t feel right. Jaeyun was a good swimmer.”
Your stomach churned as you read on. The note went on to mention that Jaeyun had been arguing with someone at a local bar the night he died. The name of the person he argued with was blacked out, but whoever it was, they were never questioned.
Your mind reeled. Something about this was definitely off. Why would Dr. Lee sign off on such a suspicious autopsy? And why had no one followed up on the blacked-out name?
You gathered the files, clutching them tightly as you made your way back upstairs. Your thoughts were racing, pieces of the puzzle slowly starting to fit together.
Beomgyu looked up from his seat as you entered the booth, his eyes widening when he saw the stack of papers in your hands. “What did you find?”
You dropped the files on the desk, flipping them open. “A death report. Sim Jaeyun. Found in the river, officially ruled as reckless behavior and alcohol poisoning. But…”
“But what?” Beomgyu prompted, leaning closer.
You pointed to the autopsy report. “It doesn’t add up. Just alcohol levels that don’t make sense. And guess who signed the autopsy?”
Beomgyu’s eyes widened. “Dr. Lee?”
“Bingo,” you said grimly. “And there’s more—apparently, Jaeyun got into an argument with someone at a bar that night, but the name was blacked out in the report. Whoever it was, they were never questioned.”
Beomgyu leaned back in his chair, running a hand through his hair. “So, what are you saying? That Jaeyun didn’t just… fall into the river drunk?”
You nodded. “That’s exactly what I’m saying. Someone’s been covering this up. And I think it ties back to everything that’s happening now.”
Beomgyu stared at the files, his face pale. “This just keeps getting worse.”
You didn’t respond, your mind already racing with what to do next.
You tapped your pen against the desk anxiously, the silence between you and Beomgyu growing heavier by the second. Finally, you broke it. “We need to talk to someone who knew Jaeyun. Someone who can tell us more about what happened that night.”
Beomgyu nodded, already pulling up the town directory on his computer. “There were names listed in some of those files,” he muttered, scrolling through the screen. “Here—Kim Jihoon. He was one of Jaeyun’s friends.”
“Call him,” you said firmly, leaning forward.
Beomgyu hesitated for a second but then grabbed the phone, dialing the number. You both waited as the line rang, the sound stretching your nerves thin.
Finally, a groggy voice answered, “Hello? Who’s this?”
“Hi, this is Beomgyu from the town’s late-night talk show,” Beomgyu began cautiously. “We’re trying to get some information about Sim Jaeyun. You were listed as one of his friends. Do you have a moment to talk?”
There was a pause on the other end before Jihoon spoke again, his voice laced with confusion. “Jaeyun? Why are you asking about him? He’s been gone for years.”
You leaned toward the mic, speaking gently but urgently. “We’re trying to piece together what really happened to him, Jihoon. There are some things about his death that don’t make sense. Can you tell us what you remember from that night?”
Another long pause. Then Jihoon let out a sigh. “I don’t know how much help I’ll be, but… sure. I’ll tell you what I can.”
You exchanged a glance with Beomgyu, who nodded for you to continue. “Okay,” you said. “Start from the beginning. What was that night like?”
“It was supposed to be a fun night,” Jihoon began, his voice tinged with sadness. “We were celebrating Jaeyun. He’d just gotten a big promotion at work, and we all went out to the bar to party. Everything was fine at first—laughing, drinking, just having a good time. But then…”
He trailed off, and you prompted him gently. “But then what?”
Jihoon sighed again. “Jaeyun got into an argument with someone. I didn’t see who it was—I was across the bar at the time, talking to someone else. But I heard voices getting louder, and when I looked over, Jaeyun was face-to-face with this guy. I couldn’t make out what they were saying, but it looked heated.”
Your grip on the pen tightened. “Did you see what the guy looked like at all? Anything about him?”
“No,” Jihoon admitted. “It was dark, and the bar was crowded. I only saw his back. But… I don’t know, there was something off about the guy. The way he was standing, the way he moved… it gave me a bad feeling.”
“What happened after that?” you asked.
“Jaeyun stormed out of the bar,” Jihoon said. “The guy followed him. I tried to go after them, but by the time I got outside, they were both gone. I looked around, called out for Jaeyun, but… nothing. It was like they’d disappeared.”
“And then?”
“The next day, I heard the news,” Jihoon said, his voice breaking slightly. “Jaeyun was found dead in the river. They said he’d been drinking and must’ve fallen in, but…”
“But you didn’t believe that,” you finished for him.
“No,” Jihoon said firmly. “Jaeyun wasn’t that kind of guy. He could hold his liquor, and he would’ve been careful. It didn’t make sense then, and it doesn’t make sense now.”
You sat back in your chair, your mind racing. Jaeyun had argued with someone—someone who followed him out of the bar. Someone who might have been responsible for his death.
Beomgyu’s voice cut through the static over the intercom, calm but clipped. “The other line’s ringing. I’ll take care of it.”
You nodded to yourself, still holding the phone to your ear. “Alright.”
Turning your attention back to Jihoon, you settled into your chair and tried to ground yourself.
“Jaeyun was just… he was the kind of guy everyone liked, you know? He always made time for people. Even when he was busy, he’d stop to check in. If you were upset about something, he’d notice—he always noticed.” Jihoon’s voice broke slightly, and you could hear him swallow hard.
You nodded, even though he couldn’t see you. “He sounds like a really good person. Someone who didn’t deserve what happened.”
“No, he didn’t,” Jihoon agreed softly. “He’d do these little things, you know? Like, one time, I forgot my wallet, and he just covered everything without even saying anything. He didn’t want people to feel bad, didn’t want anyone to feel like a burden. That was just Jaeyun.”
You found yourself smiling faintly, despite the grim topic. “He must’ve been an amazing friend to have.”
“He was,” Jihoon said, his voice thick with emotion. “Losing him… it wasn’t just hard. It was—” He paused, and you could hear him take a deep breath. “It was like losing the glue that held us all together. He was the one who brought us all into the same orbit.”
Your chest tightened as you listened, the weight of Jihoon’s words pressing down on you. Jaeyun had been more than just a name on a file or a tragic story in the town’s history. He’d been a real person, someone loved deeply by those around him.
“I’m sorry, Jihoon,” you said softly. “I wish I could’ve met him. He sounds like he left a mark on everyone he knew.”
“He did,” Jihoon whispered. “And that’s what makes it so hard to believe… what they said about him, that he was drunk and reckless. That’s not him. It never felt right to me, even back then.”
You nodded, the puzzle pieces in your mind continuing to shift and rearrange themselves. “I understand. And I think you’re right to trust your gut. There’s more to this story, and I’m trying to piece it together.”
Jihoon let out a shaky laugh. “Thanks. I don’t know why you care so much—"
The lights in the booth flickered and then abruptly went out, plunging you into darkness. You froze, the silence suddenly suffocating.
A second later, Beomgyu’s voice came over the intercom, slightly muffled but urgent. “Uh… the power just went out in the whole building. I think you’ll need to go down to the basement and reset the breaker. I’d do it, but I’m kinda stuck here monitoring the calls.”
You clicked your flashlight on, its narrow beam cutting through the pitch-black room. “Got it,” you said, trying to keep your voice steady. “Stay up here. I’ll be back in a minute.”
“I’ll keep an eye on everything,” Beomgyu promised, his voice a little shaky but resolute.
You stood up, your flashlight casting eerie shadows as you moved toward the booth door. The air felt colder now, heavier, as though the power outage had sucked the life out of the building.
Exiting the booth, you walked down the hall toward the staircase. Every creak of the floor beneath your feet made your stomach tighten.
The door to the basement was slightly ajar when you reached it, creaking as you pushed it open. You descended the stairs, each step echoing loudly in the stillness.
The basement smelled of damp concrete and old cardboard. The beam of your flashlight bounced across the walls, revealing cluttered shelves, dusty equipment, and the same door to the janitor's room you’d searched earlier.
Something felt... wrong.
You paused at the bottom of the stairs, your breath catching as the sensation of eyes on you. It was that prickling feeling, the kind that made the hairs on your neck stand up.
You swung the flashlight around again, the beam slicing through the shadows. Nothing. “Get it together,” you muttered under your breath.
Moving cautiously, you made your way to the breaker panel in the corner of the room. The metal door was slightly ajar, as though someone had been there recently. You frowned and reached out, pulling it open.
The switches were all flipped off. You began resetting them, flipping each one back to its original position. As the last switch clicked into place, you heard a faint sound behind you—a scuffling, like a shoe sliding against the concrete floor.
You froze.
“Hello?” you called out, your voice echoing in the stillness.
No response.
Your flashlight beam darted across the room again, settling on nothing but dusty shelves and discarded junk. The sensation of being watched was stronger than ever, the weight of unseen eyes boring into your back.
Swallowing hard, you gripped the flashlight tighter and turned back toward the stairs. “It’s just your imagination,” you told yourself. “Just nerves.”
But as you climbed the stairs, the creak of a floorboard behind you made your blood run cold. You spun around, flashlight trembling in your hand, but there was no one there.
Heart pounding, you hurried up the remaining steps and shoved the door open, stepping back into the main hall. The lights flickered back on, flooding the building with their harsh fluorescent glow.
You walked back toward the booths, your thoughts still caught on Jihoon’s words, and your pulse quickened when you noticed something strange—the door to Beomgyu’s booth was open. Beomgyu never left it open when he was working.
Curiosity and concern flared in equal measure as you stepped inside. “Beomgyu?” you called softly, but the booth was empty.
The faint smell of his cologne lingered in the air, but there was no sign of him. You frowned, glancing around, trying to spot anything out of place. The silence felt oppressive, thick, like the air itself was watching you.
Turning back toward the hallway, you froze.
A figure was walking toward you, their movements deliberate and slow, as if savoring every step. They were dressed in black, a pale white mask covering their face, and in their hand gleamed a knife.
Your heart leapt into your throat. Thinking fast, you slammed the door shut and locked it just as the figure lunged. The door rattled violently as they crashed into it, and you stumbled back, gasping, your chest heaving.
The sound of the knife scraping against the door sent shivers down your spine.
You turned, instinctively seeking safety, only to feel your stomach drop.
Someone was standing in your booth.
On the other side of the glass separating Beomgyu’s booth from yours, the killer stood, their white mask tilted ever so slightly as if they were studying you.
You stared in disbelief, your pulse pounding in your ears as the killer leaned casually against the glass. Slowly, they raised their knife and tapped the blade against the glass, the metallic tink tink tink reverberating in the confined space.
"Hey there," their distorted voice drawled, smug and taunting. “Miss me?”
You didn’t answer, too frozen by the weight of the moment.
They chuckled, the sound muffled but chilling. “C’mon, let’s make this interesting. Open the door for me. I just want to play.”
Your stomach churned, and you shook your head, your voice trembling but firm. “Where’s Beomgyu?”
The killer tilted their head, tapping the knife against the glass again. “Oh, he’s around,” they said, their tone lilting, as if they were enjoying a private joke.
Panic clawed at your insides. “What did you do to him?”
The killer leaned closer to the glass, the mask distorting their features into a sinister blur. “Why so worried? Shouldn’t you be more concerned about yourself?”
You clenched your fists, forcing yourself to hold their gaze despite the fear threatening to crush you. “What do you want?”
They leaned back slightly, tapping the glass once more, their knife dragging a slow, deliberate line down its surface. “For now? I just want to see how long you can last.”
The killer’s mask shifted slightly as he glanced toward your desk, his knife tapping idly against the glass again. “Well, well,” he said, his voice dripping with mock surprise. “You’ve been busy, haven’t you?”
You glanced at the desk, realizing he was looking at the scattered clues you’d been piecing together: the newspaper clippings, the notes, the photo of Jaeyun.
“What are you talking about?” you asked, trying to keep your voice steady, though your hands were trembling at your sides.
The killer tilted his head, almost amused. “Don’t play dumb. You’ve been digging, haven’t you? Going through things you shouldn’t, asking questions. Connecting dots. You’re smarter than they gave you credit for.”
You clenched your fists, anger bubbling up beneath your fear. “Why are you doing this?” you demanded, your voice sharper now. “What’s the point of all this? Why terrorize the town? Why kill all these people?”
The killer let out a low, humorless laugh, the sound muffled behind his mask. “You really don’t get it, do you?”
You glared at him, heart pounding. “Then explain it. Make me understand.”
The killer stood straighter, the playful tilt of his head replaced with something colder, darker. His voice dropped, the teasing edge gone. “This isn’t random. This isn’t chaos for the sake of chaos. This is revenge.”
You froze. “Revenge? For what?”
“For Jaeyun,” he said simply, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. “For what happened to him. For what they did to his life.”
Your breath caught, the weight of his words settling over you like a heavy blanket. “You’re doing all of this… because of Jaeyun?”
The killer nodded slowly. “He didn’t deserve what happened to him. He didn’t deserve to die the way he did. Alone. Cast aside. Written off as a reckless drunk when everyone knew that wasn’t who he was.”
You swallowed hard, the pieces clicking together in your mind. “You… you think someone in this town killed him. Don’t you?”
The killer laughed again, but this time it was bitter, full of venom. “Think? Oh, no. I don’t think. I know.”
Your pulse raced as you stared at him, trying to make sense of it all. “Then why target the town? Why not just go after the person responsible?”
The killer leaned closer to the glass, his voice low and menacing. “Because they all played a part. They turned a blind eye. They lied. They covered it up. And now? They’re going to pay.”
You shook your head, panic and disbelief swirling in your chest. “This isn’t justice. This is—this is insanity!”
“Call it whatever you want,” the killer said, stepping back slightly, his knife still glinting in his hand. “But by the time I’m done, everyone will know the truth. And Jaeyun will finally get the justice he deserves.”
You stared at him through the glass, trying to piece everything together. “What connects you to Jaeyun?” you asked, your voice shaking slightly. “Why are you doing this in his name? What was he to you?”
The killer chuckled darkly, the sound vibrating through the air like a warning. “Oh, come on,” he said, tilting his head mockingly. “You’ve been working so hard. And yet you haven’t figured it out?”
You frowned, frustration mounting. “Stop playing games and just tell me!”
Before you could say anything else, he suddenly stopped pacing, his hand reaching up to the edge of his mask. “You want answers?” he asked, his tone laced with something dangerous. “Then pay attention.”
Your heart thundered in your chest as his fingers gripped the mask. Slowly, he pulled it off, revealing the face underneath.
Your breath caught in your throat. “No,” you whispered, stumbling back a step. “That’s not possible…”
It was Jaeyun.
His face was unmistakable, though there was something different now—harsher. His features were gaunter, his eyes darker, filled with a cold fire that sent a chill down your spine.
“But—you’re dead,” you stammered, shaking your head in disbelief. “They said you were dead. I saw the reports.”
A grim smile tugged at the corners of his lips. “Dead?” he echoed, his voice dripping with venom. “I was supposed to be. The man who killed me certainly thought I was.”
“Then how are you alive?” you asked, your voice barely a whisper.
He stepped closer to the glass, his expression hard. “Sheer will,” he said, his tone icy. “I wasn’t supposed to survive that night. But I did. Barely. They threw me in the river, thinking they’d silenced me for good. But they didn’t count on me crawling out, broken, bleeding, but alive.”
Your stomach churned as you processed his words. “Who did this to you?”
Jaeyun’s jaw clenched, and his eyes burned with rage. “The man who killed me is now the town’s mayor,” he spat, his voice thick with hatred. “That promotion was supposed to be mine. I earned it. But he couldn’t stand the idea of me taking what he thought was his. So he decided to remove the competition—permanently.”
Your breath hitched. “They covered it up,” you murmured, the realization hitting you like a punch to the gut.
“Of course they did,” Jaeyun sneered. “They spun a pretty little story. Made me out to be reckless, irresponsible. A drunk who couldn’t handle himself. And everyone believed it.”
“And no one knew you were alive?” you asked, your voice trembling.
He shook his head, his expression cold. “Not a soul. They all thought they were free of me. That their secret was safe.” He leaned closer to the glass, his voice dropping to a deadly whisper. “But I’ve been watching. Waiting. And now, I’m back.”
You stared at him, your mind racing. “You’re doing all of this… to get revenge?”
Jaeyun smiled, but there was no warmth in it. “Revenge? Justice? Call it whatever you want. But this town took everything from me. My life. My future. And now, I’m going to take everything from them.”
You swallowed hard, your pulse pounding in your ears. “This isn’t justice, Jaeyun. This is—this is murder.”
“They murdered me first,” he snapped, his voice sharp as a blade. “They thought they could bury me and move on. But they were wrong. And now, they’re going to pay.”
You opened your mouth to respond, but no words came. All you could do was stare at the man in front of you—the man who had risen from the dead, consumed by a need for vengeance.
Jaeyun’s gaze stayed locked on yours, his lips curving into a sly smile. He leaned against the glass, tapping his knife against it rhythmically, the sound unnerving in the silence. “Come on,” he murmured, his tone low and coaxing. “Open the door. Let’s talk properly. Face to face.”
Jaeyun’s smile faltered, his eyes narrowing as you stood your ground. He straightened, stepping closer to the glass, and his voice dropped into a darker, more threatening tone. “You think you're safe in there?” He tapped the knife against the glass again, this time with more force, his breath coming faster as his frustration grew. “You really think you can stop me by just hiding?”
When you didn’t respond, he slammed his fist against the glass with a deafening crack. The force rattled the walls, sending a shiver down your spine. He glared at you, his chest heaving, rage and amusement mixed in his expression. “You’re making this harder than it needs to be. Open the damn door.”
You stiffened, gripping the edge of the desk in front of you as if it could anchor you. “Why would I do that?” you asked, your voice sharper than you felt. “So you can kill me too? No thanks.”
His smile didn’t falter, but his eyes glinted with something almost playful. “Kill you?” he said, feigning offense. “Why would I do that? You’re the only one who’s actually listened to me. The only one who’s tried to understand.”
“Forgive me if I don’t find that comforting,” you shot back, but your voice wavered slightly.
He tilted his head, the knife pausing mid-tap. “You’re scared,” he observed, his voice soft, almost gentle. “But you don’t have to be. I’m not your enemy.”
“Not my enemy?” you echoed, incredulous. “You’ve been terrorizing this town for days. You killed people, Jaeyun.”
“They deserved it,” he said flatly, the warmth in his tone vanishing. “Every single one of them was complicit. They lied. They covered it up. They let him get away with it.”
“And Beomgyu?” you demanded, anger rising in your chest. “What did he ever do to you?”
Jaeyun hesitated, his smile faltering for a fraction of a second. “Collateral damage,” he said eventually, his tone colder now. “I don’t expect you to understand.”
“You’re right,” you said, your voice firm despite the fear twisting in your gut. “I don’t. Because what you’re doing isn’t justice—it’s just more bloodshed.”
His expression darkened, but then he sighed, as if trying to calm himself. He stepped back from the glass slightly, sheathing the knife at his side. “You’re different,” he said after a moment, his tone soft again. “You’ve got a brain. You’ve been piecing this together all night. You know I’m not lying about what happened to me. So why not help me? Why not open the door and join me?”
You stared at him, stunned. “Join you?”
He nodded, his expression earnest. “You said it yourself—this isn’t justice. But maybe you could help me make it right. Maybe you could keep me… grounded.”
“You’re insane,” you whispered, shaking your head.
“Am I?” he countered, stepping closer to the glass again. “Or am I the only one who’s willing to do what it takes? Think about it—you’ve seen what this town is like. Corrupt, rotten to its core. You’ve been digging up its secrets all night. Do you really think anyone else is going to pay for what they’ve done?”
You hesitated, his words stirring something in you. The town was corrupt. The mayor had gotten away with murder. And Jaeyun… as twisted as his methods were, he wasn’t entirely wrong.
Seeing your hesitation, his smile returned, wider now. “That’s it,” he said softly, his voice almost soothing. “You’re starting to see it, aren’t you? This town doesn’t deserve your loyalty. They’ll betray you the first chance they get. But I won’t. You and me, we could fix this. Together.”
Your grip on the desk tightened, your knuckles white. “No,” you said finally, your voice shaking but resolute. “I’m not opening that door. I’m not like you.”
Jaeyun’s expression shifted, his smile fading. “Pity,” he murmured, his tone more disappointed than angry. “You would’ve made a good ally.”
He turned his back to you, walking toward the door to your booth. But before he left, he glanced over his shoulder, a dark smile curling his lips again. “I’ll be seeing you soon,” he said softly. “One way or another.”
And with that, he was gone, leaving you trembling in the eerie silence of the room.
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jujumin-translates · 10 months ago
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★ Main Story | Act 13 - Budding Spring | Chapter 8 - First Theater Experience
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*Door creaks open*
Towa: …
Towa: (It’s almost time for it to start, but I wonder if it’s fine for me to come in…)
Izumi: Ah, Towa-kun, welcome. You can go ahead and take a seat over there while you wait.
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Towa: Hello…
Boy: Hey, I’m thirsty.
Father: Here’s some water.
Izumi: There’s vending machines in the lobby, so if you want to get anything, now’s the time.
Young Man: Umm, where’s the bathroom…?
Sakuya: It’s that way. I’ll show you!
Towa: (There’s all kinds of people here, from elementary school kids to elderly people…)
Towa: (I wonder if those high school-looking girls and college-age-looking ladies are Spring Troupe fans like me.)
Towa: (It’s kinda a relief that no one here seems like they’re an actor. Everyone looks pretty beginner-ish.)
Izumi: Well, it’s about time. Let’s get things started.
Sakuya: Everyone, please come and gather here~!
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Sakuya: Hello! I’m Sakuya Sakuma, the leader of MANKAI Company’s Spring Troupe!
Sakuya: Thank you for participating in today’s beginner’s workshop!
Sakuya: This is our first time doing something like this, so I’m sure there’s some things we’ll kinda have to ease into, but we’ll do our best and we hope you all have fun!
Citron: We will start with a very eggciting backstage tour led by me and Sakuya!
Citron: We are also bringing in some special guests for today, so we hope you look forward to seeing them~!
Sakuya: We’ll start by showing you the part of the stage that can be seen from the best seats in the house! Be sure to watch your step as you make your way up.
· • —– ٠ ��� ٠ —– • ·
Sakuya: Here’s where we always perform for the audience.
Boy: Whoa…!
Towa: Amazing… so this is what it’s like to be on stage.
Sakuya: When you’re actually standing up here, it’s kinda surprising how small the stage is from one end to the other. But since it’s up higher than the audience seats, you can see all the way to the back from up here.
Woman A: So you really can see it from up here.
Citron: We can see all of the audience members!
Sakuya: Akashi-saaan, please go ahead!
Akashi: Okay…
*Stage lights turn on*
Sakuya: This is the stage lighting. It can change the color of the entirety of the stage, and can be used to cast a spotlight on a single person…
*Spotlight turns on*
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Towa: !!
Woman B: So hot…!
Citron: It is always hot and shakes us sweat!
Tsuzuru: You mean makes us sweat.
Itaru: You sure letting Citron and Sakuya run this thing is a good idea?
Citron: Just leave it to us!
Sakuya: When a scene is exciting, the light can flicker like this, and when a scene has a slower tone, the lights can become subdued like this…
*Lights flicker and then slow down*
Citron: We can do many performances this way!
Sakuya: Let’s move on to the lighting booth next.
· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·
Citron: It is time to introduce one of our special guests!
Sakuya: This is Akashi-san, he does all of our lighting for us.
Akashi: N-Nice to m… you…
Towa: Huh?
Citron: He is a bit shy, but he has instanding lighting skills!
Tsuzuru: You mean outstanding?
Akashi: A-A single light can completely change the atmosphere of a scene… the mood of the stage can completely differ depending on who’s in charge of the lighting…
Sakuya: The mood on stage that Akashi-san creates is always so gentle and warm.
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Akashi: T-Thank you…
Towa: (I hadn’t ever really thought about the lighting that much before. Next time I see a play, I’ll pay more attention to it to see how it changes…)
Citron: Next up is the sound booth!
· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·
Rento: Yo.
Sakuya: This is Rento-san, he’s in charge of the sound for us!
Rento: Nice to meetcha.
Rento: My job is to do stuff like prepare the music ‘n sound effects used on stage ‘n then make ‘em fit in line with the flow of the play.
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Rento: I’m basically a jack-of-all-trades when it comes to sound-related stuff.
Rento: ‘Course, the music’s gotta fit for the scene, ‘n the sound effects can’t be too dull or they’ll take away from the play.
Rento: Not only does that stuff really liven up a scene, but it also pushes the play forward so it doesn’t fall into a lull or anythin’ like that.
Boy: Huh… the music really does get me more excited, now that I think about it.
Towa: (So this is the guy that does the sound effects that go along with the sword fights…)
Sakuya: Even a tiny timing error can disrupt the rhythm of a play, so it’s a pretty tough job.
Citron: Rento’s sounds are always very nice and perfect!
Rento: Thanks much.
Sakuya: Now let’s head to the backstage dressing room~.
· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·
Yuki: Hey there.
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Azami: Nice to meet you.
Towa: Huh, Azami-kun and Yuki-kun…!?
Sakuya: These guys are Yuki-kun, the one in charge of our costumes, and Azami-kun, the one in charge of our makeup!
Woman A: I didn’t think we’d get to meet anyone from a troupe other than Spring Troupe…!
Woman B: Same here!
Yuki: I’ve been in charge of costumes for every performance since the Newborn Spring Troupe’s first play, RomiJuli.
Yuki: I create the designs based on the plots of Tsuzuru’s scripts, and then from there, I draw up the patterns, which you can kind of think of like being the blueprints for costumes…
Yuki: Then I buy the fabric and get to sewing.
Yuki: I make designs that not only fit the image of the role but ones that’ll also look good on stage and are easy to move in.
Woman A: Do you make everything all by yourself?
Yuki: Generally speaking. It’s easier for me to get a solid idea that way. But sometimes I have Taichi or the others help me with some of the smaller details.
Towa: Amazing…!
Azami: And I’m in charge of plannin’ out the makeup to match the roles and costumes and also doin’ everyone’s makeup before each performance.
Sakuya: We used to do our makeup ourselves before Azami-kun was put in charge of it, so it’s a little funny to see how our makeup skills compare to his.
Citron: The impact it has on our faces is totally different~!
· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·
Sakuya: Well then, that concludes our backstage tour. Now it’s time for everyone to try their hand at acting!
Itaru: The theme this time is “Enjoying your first theater experience”.
Tsuzuru: You don’t have to worry about any special techniques or skills, we just want you to experience what it’s like to perform.
Izumi: We’ll now pass out the scripts~.
Tsuzuru: The script is actually an excerpt from the Spring Troupe play “Romeo and Julius”.
Tsuzuru: We thought it’d be one that’s easy to act out since Romeo and Juliet is a pretty famous work.
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Itaru: And because at the time of Spring Troupe’s first performance, all of us were just beginners.
Towa: (“Romeo and Julius”… Masumi-kun’s Julius is so cool.)
Towa: (I can’t believe he was just a beginner when he first performed as him.)
Tsuzuru: Alright then, we’re gonna split you guys into six teams now and decide on the casting. We already planned out how we’re gonna split you into teams, so we’ll tell you which team you're on now.
Towa: (I wonder what role I’m gonna get!)
· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·
Masumi: I’m in charge of your guys’ team.
Towa: (I must be some kinda oshi magnet or something…! No, could he possibly be doing this out of all the care and consideration and kindness in his heart…!?)
Masumi: Quit staring so loudly.
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Towa: !!
Masumi: For the casting… do any of you have any preferences?
Towa: --.
Towa: (My luck’s been good so far, so I’ve gotta go for it…!)
Towa: I wanna play Julius!
Masumi: Anyone else want Julius?
Masumi: …Okay, you’ll be Julius. Anyone else have a preference?
Young Man: Ah, well, I’d like--.
Masumi: What role do you want?
Young Man: Umm… someone with fewer lines would probably be better… but…
Masumi: You’re going to be switching roles around anyway, so just pick who you want.
Young Man: T-Then, Romeo.
Masumi: If no one else has any preferences, I’ll just decide for the rest of you.
· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·
Young Man: “Umm, let’s go on a journey together, Julius. We can leave behind this cramped town and travel the world.”
Towa: “Romeo, you’ve got brawn, and I’ve got the brains. If it’s the two of us together-- then we can surely do anything.”
Towa: “Right, together we can go anyw--.”
Young Man: Ah, sorry…
Towa: No, no, it’s my fault, I completely screwed that up!
Towa: (This is the worst. That wasn’t anything like Masumi-kun’s Julius at all. What I did wasn’t even close to Julius.)
Towa: (Embarrassing myself in front of Masumi-kun, I would’ve been better off just being publicly executed instead.)
Towa: Sorry, maybe it’d be better for me to switch with someone…
Young Man: Then I should also…
Masumi: That’s just how everyone is at first. It was the same for me and Sakuya too.
Masumi: Try switching your roles.
Young Man: Huh?
Towa: W-Will that really work…?
Masumi: Read Romeo’s lines from the scene we’re on right now.
Towa: “Let's go on a journey together, Julius. We can leave behind this cramped town and travel the world.”
Young Man: “Romeo, you’ve got brawn, and I’ve got the brains. If it’s the two of us together, then we can surely do anything.”
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Towa: “Right, together we can go anywhere.”
Towa: (Huh? The lines somehow came out more naturally than they did before…)
Towa: (It feels good to say the lines like that…)
Young Man: Huh…
Towa: I did it somehow…?
Young Man: Me too…
Towa: You’re amazing, Masumi-kun!
Masumi: It was just because those roles fit you more.
Towa: (My heart is still pounding… I wonder what this feeling is… I feel like I can’t stop the urge to keep acting.)
[ ⇠ Previous Part ] • [ Next Part ⇢ ]
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asordinaryppl · 11 months ago
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A3! Main Story: Part 4 - Act 13: Budding Spring - Episode 8: The First Play
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[Door opening]
Towa: …
Towa: (It’s almost time for the event to start, I wonder if it’s okay for me to go in…)
Izumi: Ah, Towa-kun. Welcome. You can just sit around here and wait.
Towa: Hello…
Boy: Hey, I’m thirsty.
Dad: Here’s some water.
Izumi: There’s a vending machine in the lobby, if there’s anything you wish to buy, please do so now.
Young man: Umm, the restroom…
Sakuya: It’s that way. I can take you there!
Towa: (There are all kinds of people here, from elementary schoolers to older people…)
Towa: (The girl who looks like a high schooler and the Onee-san who looks like a college student are probably Spring Troupe fans like me.)
Towa: (No one seems to be an actor, so I’m relieved. Everyone gives off beginner vibes.)
Izumi: I think it’s about time, let’s get started.
Sakuya: Everyone, please gather here~!
Sakuya: Hello! I’m MANKAI Company’s Spring Troupe’s Leader, Sakuya Sakuma!
Sakuya: Thank you so much for choosing to participate in today’s Beginners Workshop!
Sakuya: This will be our first time doing this, so it’s something we aren’t used to doing, but we’ll do our best, and we hope you’ll enjoy it!
Citron: We’ll be starting with an exciting tour hosted by me and Sakuya!
Citron: We have also invited some special lecturers for today, so look forward to it~!
Sakuya: The first thing we’ll show you is the stage that can be seen best from these seats! Please watch your step as you climb up.
Youth: Woah…!
Towa: Amazing… So that’s what the stage looks like.
Sakuya: When you actually stand on the stage, the distance between one end and the other is much smaller. But since the line of sight is high, you can see all the way to the audience seats at the back.
Girl A: So you can see that far.
Citron: We can see the visitors in full view!
Sakuya: Akashi-san, if you’d please!
Akashi: Sure…
[The lights turn on]
Sakuya: This is the lighting. It can change the color of the entire stage, and cast its spotlight on a single person…
[The lights turn into a spotlight]
Towa: !!
Girl B: The light feels hot…!
Citron: It’s always hot and gives us sweat!
Tsuzuru: Makes us sweat.
Itaru: Will Citron and Sakuya be okay hosting?
Citron: Leave it to us!
Sakuya: When the scene starts getting exciting, the lights flicker like this, and when the scene’s tone is down, the lights sink like this…
[The light flickers on the whole stage, then a spotlight sinks down]
Citron: We can perform all kinds of performances like this!
Sakuya: We’ll go to the lighting booth next.
-
Citron: Introducing a special guest!
Sakuya: This is Akashi-san, our light operator.
Akashi: Ni-Nice… meet you…
Towa: Eh?
Citron: He’s a little shy, but his lighting skills are the real reel!
Tsuzuru: That’s real deal.
Akashi: J-Just the placement of one light can completely change the atmosphere of a scene… The atmosphere can also vary depending on who’s in charge of the lighting…
Sakuya: The atmosphere that Akashi-san creates on the stage is always very soft and warm.
Akashi: Th-Thank you very much…
Towa: (I never really thought about the lighting before… I’ll pay more attention to how it changes next time.)
Citron: Next is the sound booth!
-
Rento: Good work so far.
Sakuya: This is Rento-san, our sound technician!
Rento: Pleased to meet ya.
Rento: My job is to prepare the music and sound effects to be ready for use on the stage, and to actually play them in time with the play.
Rento: You gotta be a jack of all trades when it comes to music for this.
Rento: Obviously, the music that’s been prepared gotta match the scene, but if it’s too dull it’ll get in the way of the play.
Rento: Not only does music liven up the scene, but it can also help to keep up the tempo, so the flow of the play doesn't stagnate.
Youth: Heeeh… The music really does get me excited.
Towa: (The sound effects during a sword fight are also done by this person…)
Sakuya: Even a small mistake in timing can disrupt the play’s flow, so it’s quite a difficult job.
Citron: Rento’s sounds are always on point and feel good!
Rento: Thanks.
Sakuya: Now we’ll be going backstage to the dressing room!
-
Yuki: Hello.
Azami: Nice to meet you.
Towa: Eh, Azami-kun and Yuki-kun…!?
Sakuya: These two are Yuki-kun, in charge of costumes, and Azami-kun, in charge of make-up!
Girl A: I didn’t think we’d get to meet members from troupes other than the Spring Troupe…!
Girl B: Right!
Yuki: I’ve been in charge of creating all costumes ever since the Reborn Spring Troupe’s inaugural RomiJuli performance.
Yuki: I come up with designs based on the script’s plot, and draw a pattern that acts as the costumes’ blueprint…
Yuki: I buy the fabric, and then start sewing.
Yuki: Of course, the design must match the role’s image, but I also make sure the outfit looks good on stage and is easy to move around in.
Girl A: Do you make everything yourself?
Yuki: Pretty much. It’s easier to follow the image I’ve come up with that way. But I do get Taichi and others to help me with the more detailed parts.
Towa: Amazing…!
Azami: I’m in charge of coming up with a make-up plan according to the roles and their costumes, and applying said make up before each performance.
Sakuya: We used to do it ourselves before Azami-kun came along, so the difference is probably interesting to spot.
Citron: Our faces’ impact is completely different~!
-
Sakuya: Now that the backstage tour is over, it’s time for everyone to try their hand at acting!
Itaru: The theme this time is “Let’s enjoy our first time acting”.
Tsuzuru: Don’t worry about the finer details or your skills, all we ask of you is to experience what acting feels like.
Izumi: I’ll be handing out the scripts now.
Tsuzuru: This script is an excerpt of the Spring Troupe’s “Romeo and Julius” play.
Tsuzuru: We chose this because its theme is the popular Romeo and Juliet, and we thought it would be easy to reenact.
Itaru: And also because as Spring Troupe’s debut performance, it was performed by a cast that consisted only of beginners.
Towa: (“Romeo and Julius”... Masumi-kun’s Julius is cool.)
Towa: (It’s hard to believe he performed like that as a beginner.)
Tsuzuru: We will now divide into 6 teams and decide on the cast. We have decided the teams in advance, so I’ll just go ahead and announce them.
Towa: (What’s my role gonna be!?)
-
Masumi: I’ll be in charge of this team.
Towa: (This oshi pull luck is too good…! No, maybe he’s doing this out of consideration or good will or kindness…!?)
Masumi: Your staring is too loud.
Towa: !!
Masumi: As for the roles… Does anyone have a role they want?
Towa: — —
Towa: (My luck has been good thus far, I gotta go for it…!)
Towa: I’d like to do Julius!
Masumi: Does anyone else want to do Julius?
Masumi: … Julius is decided, then. Does anyone else have any preferences?
Young man: Ah, then, I’ll pick too–
Masumi: Which role?
Youth: Umm… I’m probably better off not having many lines… But…
Masumi: You’ll be taking turns switching, so pick what you like.
Young man: I-I want to do Romeo, then.
Masumi: If no one else has a preference, I’ll just do the picking.
-
Young man: “Ummm, let’s go on a journey, Julius. Let’s leave this stifling town, and travel the world.”
Towa: “Romeo, you have brawn. And I have brains. If it’s the two of us— Ummm, we can surely do anything.”
Towa: “Yes, the two of us–”
Young man: Ah, I’m sorry…
Towa: No, no, it’s my fault, I just can’t get it right!
Towa: (That was awful. It’s completely different from Masumi-kun’s Julius. This isn’t how Julius is supposed to be.)
Towa: (Embarrassing myself in front of Masumi-kun seriously makes me wish I was dead.) (1)
Towa: I’m sorry, I think it’d be better if someone else takes my place…
Young man: Then, me too…
Masumi: Everyone is like this at the start. Sakuya was, too.
Masumi: Try switching Romeo and Julius.
Young man: Eh?
Towa: I-I wonder if that will work...
Masumi: Say Romeo’s lines from the scene we’re on right now.
Towa: “Let’s go on a journey, Julius. Let’s leave this stifling town, and travel the world.”
Young man: “Romeo, you have brawn. And I have brains. If it’s the two of us, we can surely do anything.”
Towa: “Yes, the two of us can go anywhere!”
Towa: (Huh? Somehow, the lines came out of me more naturally than before…)
Towa: (Saying these lines felt good…)
Young man: Huh…
Towa: I think I did it, somehow…
Young man: Me too…
Towa: You’re amazing, Masumi-kun!
Masumi: It was just a matter of compatibility.
Towa: (My heart is still pounding… Just what is this feeling… I can’t help but want to keep acting.)
previous episode | masterpost | next episode
NOTES:
(1) 25/4 edit: i changed towa's line to fit the kms line from the previous episode because reading further into the main story told me he'd say that, actually.
(2) i considered naming the episode my first play, because the title is said by towa, but considering the play is also romijuli, which was mankai's first, i chose not to
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axisdesigners1234 · 7 months ago
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Axis Designers: Leading the Way as the Best Exhibition Company in India
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In the dynamic world of exhibitions and trade shows, the presentation and design of a booth can make all the difference between attracting potential clients and blending into the background. This is where Axis Designers step in, carving a niche as the best exhibition company in India. With a reputation for creativity, innovation, and excellence, Axis Designers are redefining the standards of exhibition design, making them the go-to choice for businesses aiming to make a lasting impression.
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eventtimeltd · 2 years ago
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julirobert · 2 years ago
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Where to get Bespoke Illustration and Exhibition Design services?
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When it comes to finding bespoke illustration services, there are several avenues you can explore. Below are some popular options where you can find talented illustrators who offer customized illustrations tailored to your specific needs.
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What are Exhibitions and Presentations?
Exhibitions and presentations refer to events or displays where individuals or organizations showcase their products, services, ideas, or projects to a target audience. These events are designed to inform, engage, and promote a specific subject matter or theme.
Exhibitions typically involve the physical display of items, such as products, artwork, scientific innovations, or cultural artifacts. They can take various forms, including trade shows, art exhibitions, science fairs, industry expos, or museum displays. Exhibitors set up booths, stands, or designated areas to showcase their offerings and interact with visitors. These events often provide opportunities for networking, business promotion, market research, and knowledge sharing among industry professionals, enthusiasts, and the general public.
Presentations, on the other hand, focus more on conveying information, ideas, or findings through verbal communication and visual aids. Presentations can be delivered in various formats, such as lectures, seminars, workshops, conferences, or webinars. They are commonly used in academic, professional, or corporate settings to share research, educate an audience, pitch a project or proposal, or provide updates on a specific topic. Presentations often include slides, multimedia content, demonstrations, or interactive elements to enhance audience engagement and understanding.
Both exhibitions and presentations play important roles in disseminating information, showcasing innovations, fostering collaboration, and promoting products or ideas to a targeted audience. They are valuable tools for communication, marketing, education, and community engagement.
Where to get Exhibition Design service?
There are several options available for obtaining exhibition design services. Here are a few places where you can find such services:
Design Agencies: Many design agencies specialize in exhibition design and offer comprehensive services to create engaging and visually appealing exhibits. These agencies often have experienced designers who can assist you in creating a customized exhibition design tailored to your specific needs.
Freelance Designers: Freelance designers who specialize in exhibition design can also be a great option. Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or Behance allow you to browse through portfolios and connect with talented exhibition designers who can work on your project.
Event Management Companies: Event management companies often offer exhibition design services as part of their overall event planning and execution. They have expertise in creating captivating exhibits that align with your event goals.
Trade Show Organizers: If you are participating in a trade show or exhibition, the organizers often provide exhibition design services or can recommend trusted vendors who specialize in exhibition design.
Referrals and Recommendations: Ask for recommendations from colleagues, industry professionals, or other companies that have previously organized exhibitions. Referrals can help you find reliable exhibition design service providers who have a proven track record.
Remember to evaluate potential service providers based on their portfolio, expertise, experience, and client reviews. It's also important to clearly communicate your requirements and budget to ensure a successful collaboration.
In conclusion, bespoke illustration is a highly valued and unique form of artistic expression. It involves creating customized and personalized illustrations to meet the specific needs and preferences of clients. Bespoke illustrations offer a range of benefits, including exclusivity, originality, and the ability to capture the essence of a particular subject or concept.
One of the key advantages of bespoke illustration is its ability to convey a distinct message or story. By working closely with clients, illustrators can understand their vision and translate it into a visual form. This collaborative process ensures that the final illustration not only meets the client's expectations but also captures the essence of the subject matter in a way that is meaningful and engaging.
Another significant advantage of bespoke illustration is its exclusivity. Unlike stock images or generic illustrations, bespoke illustrations are created specifically for an individual or organization. This exclusivity adds value and uniqueness to the artwork, making it stand out and resonate with the intended audience. Whether it's for branding purposes, marketing campaigns, or personal projects, bespoke illustrations can help create a strong and memorable visual identity.
Bespoke illustration also offers a high level of artistic quality and craftsmanship. Skilled illustrators bring their expertise, creativity, and attention to detail to each project, ensuring that the final artwork is visually stunning and aesthetically pleasing. This level of craftsmanship sets bespoke illustrations apart from mass-produced or digitally generated images, adding a touch of authenticity and artistry.
Furthermore, bespoke illustration allows for customization and flexibility. Clients have the opportunity to provide input and collaborate with the illustrator throughout the creative process, ensuring that the final result aligns with their vision. This flexibility extends to various styles, techniques, and mediums, allowing for a wide range of artistic possibilities. From traditional hand-drawn illustrations to digital artwork, bespoke illustration can be tailored to suit different preferences and project requirements.
In summary, bespoke illustration is a highly personalized and creative form of artistic expression that offers numerous benefits. Its ability to convey a distinct message, exclusivity, artistic quality, and customization make it a valuable tool for individuals and organizations seeking to create unique and engaging visual content. Whether it's for branding, marketing, or personal projects, bespoke illustrations have the power to captivate and leave a lasting impression on viewers.
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bmorephotosrental · 8 hours ago
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360 Photo Booth Rental Baltimore – Elevate Your Event with Bmore Photos
Looking to add an unforgettable experience to your event? Bmore Photos offers premium 360 photo booth rental in Baltimore, delivering immersive, high-quality videos that capture every moment in stunning detail. Whether you're hosting a wedding, corporate event, birthday party, or promotional gathering, our 360-degree photo booth will engage your guests and create lasting memories.
What Is a 360 Photo Booth?
A 360 photo booth is a cutting-edge video experience that allows guests to step onto a rotating platform while a high-definition camera circles them, capturing smooth, dynamic slow-motion footage. This interactive feature creates visually striking content, perfect for social media sharing.
At Bmore Photos, our 360 photo booth rental in Baltimore includes: ✅ HD slow-motion video recording ✅ Customized branding and overlays ✅ Instant social media sharing ✅ Professional lighting for stunning visuals ✅ On-site attendants for a seamless experience
Perfect for Any Event in Baltimore
Our 360 photo booth rental is ideal for:
🎉 Weddings & Celebrations
Make your wedding or anniversary unforgettable with a unique, interactive guest experience. The 360 photo booth adds a fun, elegant touch that will keep your guests entertained all night.
🎊 Corporate Events & Brand Activations
Boost engagement at company events, trade shows, and brand activations with a custom-branded 360 photo booth. Create shareable content with logos, hashtags, and themed animations.
🎂 Birthday Parties & Social Gatherings
Whether it’s a sweet sixteen, milestone birthday, or graduation party, our 360 photo booth rental in Baltimore brings excitement and entertainment to any celebration.
💃 Nightlife & Special Occasions
Hosting a club night, gala, or themed party? Give your guests an Instagram-worthy experience with high-quality, slow-motion videos that showcase their best moves.
Why Choose Bmore Photos?
At Bmore Photos, we are dedicated to providing a seamless and high-quality 360 photo booth rental service in Baltimore. Here's what sets us apart:
⭐ Professional Quality – We use top-tier cameras and lighting to ensure your videos look flawless. ⭐ Custom Branding – Personalize your videos with logos, event themes, and filters. ⭐ Instant Sharing – Guests can download and share their videos instantly. ⭐ Expert Support – Our on-site team ensures everything runs smoothly. ⭐ Affordable Pricing – Flexible rental packages to fit any budget.
Book Your 360 Photo Booth Today!
Ready to elevate your event with a 360 photo booth rental in Baltimore? Contact Bmore Photos today to reserve your date and give your guests an experience they won’t forget!
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ksmexhibits · 4 days ago
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Custom Booth Design for CES: Stand Out at the World's Leading Tech Show
At KSM Exhibits, we provide our clients with modular and custom exhibits and rental displays from our large inventory. Services include award-winning design, custom fabrication, in-house printing, worry-free installation, maintenance, shipping and storage, and an online booth inventory system. Explore the extensive selection of rental displays and bespoke and modular exhibitions that KSM Exhibitions offers.
Trade Show Booth Builders
Staying ahead of design trends in trade shows and expos is critical to creating a booth that stands out and captivates your audience. The trade show industry embraces innovative materials, cutting-edge technology, and sustainable practices. This blog explores the top trends shaping trade show booth builders, including eco-friendly materials, AR/VR integration, modular designs, and the rise of technology-driven experiences.
Bespoke Trade Show Displays
KSM Exhibits is an award-winning trade show display design and fabrication house that works with clients of all sizes — whether you're a brand new startup, a small-medium-sized business, or a large Fortune 500 company. We'll build the perfect Bespoke trade show displays for you. Our team puts forward a lot extra effort to make sure that the final product lives up to your expectations. Layout, building, engineering, flooring, lighting, accessories, graphics, and furniture are all things we took into mind.
Custom booth design for CES
Exhibiting trade shows and industry events is an best way to showcase your brand, connect with potential customers, and grow your business. However, the success of your event often hinges on the quality and relevance of your booth design. A well-designed custom booth design for CES can captivate your audience, effectively communicate your brand identity, and drive engagement.
Trade show booth builders
Choosing a business to build an exhibition stand can be expensive, and you must be certain that you will obtain value for what you pay. Exceptional trade show booth builders design firms consistently stand beneath the standards of their work. So make sure you hire an exhibition booth builder to inform you precisely what they will do if you are dissatisfied with the outcome of their labor.
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asapeventss · 4 days ago
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How LED Screen Rental Can Elevate Your Brand's Visibility at Dubai Trade Shows
The trade city of Dubai as the business capital of trade and commerce hosts several high-end trade shows to be held all the year round. These are activities that can bring special chances to companies to expand their customer base, make their own product and service known and to build a brand presence. In this competitive landscape, capturing attention is paramount. An effective way to boost your brand awareness is LED screen rental in Dubai, and ASAP Events stands ready to provide the solution. This blog discusses the many advantages of using LED screens in your trade show booth and how ASAP Events can ensure you leverage this technology to the fullest.
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ASAP Events for your Dubai Trade Show LED screens
Trade shows are visually stimulating environments. In order to be noticed, you have to create an impression which will be impossible to forget. Asap events provides the top LED screen rental dubai. These colorful presentations provide an interactive environment for displaying your brand statement, products and services in an engaging way. As opposed to static displays, LED screens allow dynamic visual effects which can maintain the viewer's attention and curiosity. ASAP Events has an intimacy with the dubai trade show environment and can build those solutions to suit your requirements.
Advantages of LED Screen Hire in Dubai
Enhanced Visibility: The eye-catching, high-resolution screens provided by ASAP Events guarantee that your brand is seen from across the show floor and make attendees want to visit your booth. LED screen rental Dubai will give ASAP Events the assurance of message visibility and high brightness, even when displayed in the crowded environment of a trade exhibition.
Dynamic Content: LED screens can be used to show a variety of materials, including video, animation, slide show, or live feed, etc. This adaptability enables you to customize the content in your message for your specific individual targets while keeping a dynamic and interactive presence for your booth.
Professional Image: Integrating the expertise of Dubai LED screen rental company, ASAP Events, into your booth design concepts presents a polished, sophisticated look. It further illustrates that you are willing to showcase your brand in all of its glory.
Increased Engagement: Animated graphics are more persuasive to draw attention and encourage engagement. With ASAP Events LED screens, product demos, testimonials and interactive content can all be displayed, resulting in greater client engagement.
Versatility: LED screen hire in Dubai offers a variety of sizes and configurations to suit your needs and booth setup. No matter if you want a mini screen to show a product, or a full wraparound screen for presentations, ASAP Events has you covered.
Cost-Effectiveness: Hiring LED screens is an inexpensive way to make a statement at your trade show. Alternatively to the acquisition of very high cost equipment, the screens needed can be rented on the spot to be used during the event.
Choosing Activities with Adequate Safety Provisions (ASAP) Events for LED Screens for Rental in Dubai:
Selection of the appropriate LED screen hire company in Dubai may be the most critical decision to enable as smooth an experience as possible. ASAP Events stands out as a premier provider:
Experience and Reputation: ASAP Events has a tradition of delivering the very best in LED screens and top-class service. They are equipped with the Dubai experience that makes them a trustworthy licensee.
Equipment Quality: ASAP Events has high resolution LED screens in good condition for sale. They use top-of-the-line equipment to ensure optimal performance.
Technical Support: ASAP Events Inc. offers technical assistance on an as-needed basis, such as providing installation, setup and in-place help. Having their specialist team on board is the best way to solve all technical problems. The corporation, who also represents the market leader in LED screen rentals in Dubai, understands the importance of a perfect execution.
Variety of Options: ASAP Events offers a wide range of LED screen sizes and arrangements to meet each customer's needs. Just ask them what the best choices are for your booth area.
Competitive Pricing: ASAP Events seeks to offer attractive prices at the level of Dubai rental services for its LED screens and to ensure the best price at the level of your budget.
Seamless Logistics: ASAP Events is responsible for the delivery and installation of LED screens on your booth. They know the trade show halls and the conditions under which they operate.
Getting the most out of Your LED Screen Rental
Create Compelling Content: Collaborate with the ASAP Events to create high-impact content that will resonate with your audience", it reads.
Keep it Concise: Trade fair attendees only have a short time, so keep your sentences short and to the point.
Use High-Resolution Images and Videos: Make sure your content is scaled to the high resolution of ASAP Events's LED panels.
Incorporate Your Branding: Ensure that the logo and brand messaging are prominently shown on the LED display.
Interact with Attendees: Install a LED screen and interact with an audience by displaying interactive content or engaging in competitions.
Strategically using LED screen rental in Dubai through ASAP Events will enable you to turn your trade show stand into a vibrant, exciting place that draws the eye, reinforces your brand as well as on a business level, to drive business success. Selecting ASAP Events as your LED screen rental company provider in Dubai will ensure that your investment will yield a great outcome. It's time to hear about your led screen rental needs for your upcoming dubai trade exhibition ASAP Events fast.
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nldisplays · 5 days ago
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Trade Show Displays San Diego with Next Level Displays - Elevate Your Brand Presence
San Diego is a hub for business events, and trade shows play a big role in helping companies connect with new customers. If you want your brand to stand out, having the right trade show display is important. Well-designed exhibits can attract attention, spark interest, and leave a lasting impression.
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Eye-Catching Designs for Trade Show Displays San Diego
When you attend a trade show, your display is the first thing people notice. A well-planned booth with eye-catching colors, unique graphics, and clear messaging will pull visitors toward your space. Custom exhibits that showcase your brand’s identity make a huge difference in how people see your business.
There are many types of trade show displays San Diego companies use. Pop-up booths, modular displays, and interactive exhibits all have their advantages. The key is to choose one that fits your company’s style and goals. Adding digital screens, product demos, and giveaways can also make your booth more attractive to visitors.
Next Level Displays for a Professional Look
A professional-looking trade show booth builds trust with potential clients. Companies like Next Level Displays specialize in creating high-quality exhibits that make businesses look their best. Whether you need a small tabletop setup or a large custom-built display, working with experts ensures your booth meets industry standards.
Good lighting, strong branding, and an open layout make a big difference. Visitors should feel comfortable walking in and exploring what you have to offer. Professional displays make your brand look credible and serious about doing business.
Maximizing Success at Trade Shows in San Diego
Having a great display is just one part of a successful trade show experience. Engaging with attendees, handing out useful promotional materials, and using social media to drive traffic to your booth are also important. Training your team to be friendly and informative helps create a positive impression.
Trade shows in San Diego bring together businesses from different industries. To make your company stand out, focus on creativity and strong branding. Using high-quality trade show displays San Diego businesses rely on can give you an edge over the competition.
Investing in Next Level Displays or other custom exhibit solutions ensures that your booth is not only attractive but also effective. With the right strategy, you can turn a simple booth into a powerful marketing tool that generates leads and builds brand awareness. Make your next trade show a success by choosing a display that represents your company in the best way possible.
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digitalmore · 7 days ago
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instantexhibitions · 7 days ago
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Exhibition Stands 101: Must-Know Types for Your Next Event
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Exhibitions and trade shows offer businesses a valuable opportunity to showcase products, connect with potential customers, and boost brand visibility. However, the effectiveness of your presence depends largely on selecting the right exhibition stand design. With various options available, understanding the different types of exhibition stands can help you make an informed decision for your next event.
1. Modular Exhibition Stands
Modular stands provide a versatile and cost-effective solution for businesses that frequently participate in trade shows. These stands consist of pre-designed components that can be reconfigured to fit different booth sizes and layouts.
🔹 Key Benefits: ✔️ Reusable across multiple events ✔️ Easy to transport and store ✔️ Customisable with graphics, lighting, and accessories
2. Custom Exhibition Stands
For brands looking to create a strong visual impact, custom exhibition stands offer a fully tailored experience. These stands are designed from scratch to reflect your brand identity and provide an immersive visitor experience.
🔹 Key Benefits: ✔️ Complete creative control over design ✔️ High-impact visual appeal ✔️ Unique layouts with interactive features
💡 Note: Custom stands require higher budgets and longer production times but deliver a premium brand experience.
3. Pop-Up Exhibition Stands
Pop-up stands are lightweight, portable, and easy to set up, making them ideal for smaller events or businesses with limited budgets.
🔹 Key Benefits: ✔️ Quick setup and dismantling ✔️ Budget-friendly and reusable ✔️ Foldable frames with fabric or vinyl graphics
Perfect for brands attending multiple events that require fast and efficient booth solutions.
4. Shell Scheme Stands
Shell scheme stands are standard exhibition setups provided by event organisers, consisting of a framework with walls, carpeting, and a fascia board displaying your company name. While basic, they can be enhanced with creative branding.
🔹 Enhancement Options: ✔️ Custom graphics and banners ✔️ Upgraded lighting and furniture ✔️ Digital screens and shelving units
Shell scheme stands are a cost-effective option but may need additional design elements to stand out.
5. Double-Decker Stands
For businesses needing extra space and maximum visibility, double-decker exhibition stands offer a two-level structure that enhances engagement.
🔹 Key Benefits: ✔️ Additional space for meetings and private discussions ✔️ High visibility on a crowded exhibition floor ✔️ Premium, eye-catching design
💡 Note: These stands require higher budgets and approvals from event organisers due to their structure.
How to Choose the Right Exhibition Stand
When selecting your exhibition stand design, consider: ✅ Budget – Determine what aligns with your financial plan ✅ Brand Objectives – Identify the type of presence you want to create ✅ Event Size – Choose a stand that fits the scale of the exhibition ✅ Customisation Needs – Decide how much flexibility and branding you require
Final Thoughts
An effective exhibition stand sets you apart from competitors and ensures maximum engagement at your next trade show. By understanding the different stand options, you can choose a design that best supports your marketing goals.
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expostandserviceusa · 7 days ago
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📡 The MWC is a trade show focused on the future of connectivity and enterprise 5G! 🚀
So, 💼 if you are planning for an exhibit and you need to connect with us at 👉https://bit.ly/41drDua because we are the best trade show booth design company that offers end-to-end exhibiting solutions.✨
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skilevents · 8 days ago
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How Expert Event Planning Fuels Global Networking Success
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In today’s interconnected world, event planning plays a crucial role in fostering global networking opportunities. Whether it’s a high-profile corporate summit, an international trade show, or a business conference, well-executed events create a platform for professionals to connect, collaborate, and expand their networks. As one of the most advanced event planning companies, SKIL Events understands the power of strategic event execution in driving business success.
With expertise in crafting seamless experiences, SKIL Events ensures that every corporate gathering maximizes engagement, boosts brand reputation, and facilitates valuable professional connections. By leveraging innovative strategies and industry best practices, expert event planning transforms corporate events into dynamic hubs of global interaction.
The Role of Event Planning in Global Networking
The ability to bring together industry leaders, potential clients, and partners under one roof is a powerful tool for businesses. Effective event planning goes beyond logistics—it is about creating an environment where meaningful interactions flourish. The right approach enhances brand positioning, encourages knowledge exchange, and unlocks new business opportunities. For companies looking to expand their reach, hosting or attending well-organized events can be a game-changer. Here’s how expert event planning contributes to global networking success:
1. Structured Networking Opportunities
Networking is at the core of any successful corporate event. Strategic event planning ensures that professionals can engage in meaningful conversations through interactive sessions, breakout discussions, and curated networking lounges. SKIL Events, recognized for its excellence in corporate event planning services, designs customized networking opportunities that foster productive interactions between attendees.
2. Leveraging Technology for Seamless Engagement
The use of technology in event planning enhances engagement and connectivity among attendees. Virtual networking platforms, AI-powered matchmaking tools, and event apps streamline interactions, making it easier for participants to connect with relevant professionals. As one of the top event planning companies, SKIL Events integrates advanced technological solutions to optimize attendee engagement and networking efficiency.
3. Strategic Event Design to Enhance Visibility
A well-designed event layout, from stage setup to interactive zones, significantly impacts networking success. Expert event planning companies understand how to create environments that encourage interaction. SKIL Events meticulously plans every aspect, ensuring a balance between structured sessions and informal networking spaces that allow attendees to engage freely.
4. Global Reach Through Hybrid and Virtual Events
With the rise of hybrid and virtual events, businesses can now connect with international audiences without geographical constraints. SKIL Events, a leader in corporate event planning services, helps organizations design virtual and hybrid experiences that expand their global reach. By incorporating live streaming, interactive virtual booths, and digital networking spaces, SKIL Events enables businesses to engage with a worldwide audience effortlessly.
Corporate Event Planning Tips for Maximizing Networking Success
Successful event planning requires strategic thinking and meticulous execution. Here are some corporate event planning tips that can help businesses optimize their networking efforts:
Define Clear Networking Goals: Setting clear objectives is essential for a successful networking event. Whether the goal is to foster partnerships, attract investors, or promote a new product, event organizers should tailor their planning efforts accordingly.
Personalize Attendee Experiences: Customized experiences enhance engagement and networking efficiency. Implementing AI-driven matchmaking, exclusive VIP sessions, and personalized event agendas can significantly improve attendee interactions.
Facilitate Icebreaker Activities: Networking can sometimes feel intimidating. Incorporating icebreaker activities, such as speed networking or interactive Q&A sessions, helps attendees initiate conversations and build connections more effectively.
Utilize Data-Driven Insights: Tracking attendee engagement, interactions, and preferences can provide valuable insights for future events. Advanced event planning companies, like SKIL Events, leverage data analytics to refine event strategies and enhance networking opportunities.
Follow Up with Attendees: The impact of networking extends beyond the event itself. Sending personalized follow-up emails, sharing key event highlights, and creating post-event discussion forums help maintain relationships built during the event.
Why Choose SKIL Events for Corporate Event Planning?
As one of the most advanced event planning companies in India, SKIL Events specializes in curating world-class corporate experiences. From ideation to execution, their team of experts ensures that every detail is meticulously planned to maximize networking success.
1. Expertise in Corporate Event Planning Services
With years of experience in event planning, SKIL Events has mastered the art of designing corporate events that align with business objectives. Their strategic approach guarantees high engagement levels and effective networking opportunities.
2. Innovative Technology Integration
As a forward-thinking event planning company, SKIL Events incorporates cutting-edge technology into every aspect of event execution. Whether it’s virtual reality experiences, AI-powered matchmaking, or interactive networking zones, SKIL Events enhances corporate events with state-of-the-art solutions.
3. Customized Solutions for Every Industry
Understanding that every business has unique requirements, SKIL Events offers tailored corporate event planning services that cater to diverse industries. From IT conferences to healthcare summits, their expertise spans multiple sectors.
4. Proven Track Record with Top Organizations
Being one of the top event planning companies, SKIL Events has successfully organized events for leading corporations worldwide. Their reputation for excellence and innovation makes them a preferred choice for businesses seeking high-impact event experiences.
The Future of Event Planning and Global Networking
As businesses continue to expand their international presence, the role of event planning in global networking will become even more significant. The integration of AI, virtual reality, and data analytics will revolutionize corporate event strategies, making networking more efficient and impactful. SKIL Events remains at the forefront of these advancements, continuously evolving to provide cutting-edge solutions. Whether through immersive hybrid experiences or AI-driven networking platforms, their expertise ensures that corporate events remain powerful tools for business growth.
Final Thoughts
Expert event planning is the backbone of successful global networking. By strategically designing events that encourage meaningful interactions, businesses can foster valuable partnerships and expand their influence. With innovative strategies and a commitment to excellence, SKIL Events continues to be a leader in corporate event planning services, delivering transformative experiences that connect professionals worldwide.
For organizations looking to elevate their networking opportunities through expertly planned corporate events, SKIL Events stands out as a trusted partner. Their ability to blend technology, strategy, and creativity ensures that every event is a gateway to unparalleled business growth.
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chronicleexhibitsllc · 8 days ago
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How to Choose the Best Trade Show Booth Design Company
Choosing the best trade show booth rental Washington DC requires careful evaluation of experience, customization options, and service offerings. Look for a company with a strong portfolio, industry expertise, and positive client reviews. Ensure they provide turnkey solutions, including design, fabrication, installation, and dismantling. A good company will offer innovative, brand-focused designs that enhance engagement and visibility. Consider their ability to work within your budget while delivering high-quality materials and craftsmanship. Responsive customer support and flexibility in accommodating last-minute changes are also key factors. Partnering with the right booth design company ensures a seamless trade show experience and maximum impact.
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Exhibit Rental Organizations: Figuring out Costs and Benefits for Exhibition Rentals!
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Models are an exceptionally regarded custom presentation setup firm that gives superior grades and turnkey game plans. The firm like Local Exhibits offers everything, from wanting to assemble, and its shows are known for their value, elegant charm, and versatility. The company's experience traverses ventures, including advancement, clinical consideration, and customer items. Exhibitions offer associations a bewildering, open way to showcase their products, network with industry leaders, and develop their client base. However, the cost of showing can be huge, with associations regularly facing powerful charges for corner space, arranging, and game plans.
Local Exhibits: The Best Source of exhibit booth rental services
An Exhibit rental organization like Local Exhibits offers associations prearranged, versatile corner game plans that can be rented for a specific vocational exhibition or show. Rather than investing in an exceptionally tough corner that may be used multiple times yearly, associations can rent a slowdown unequivocally planned for the occasion they are participating in. Exhibit booth rental services consistently incorporate a range of decisions, like explicit slowdowns, uncommonly built shows, furniture, lighting, plans, and development blends. Renting a show slow down is engaging for specific associations, minuscule to fair-sized associations, or those new to exhibitions. It diminishes direct hypothesis, chips away at the orchestrating framework, and ensures they approach magnificent utilitarian, slow down, and captivating designs. Building a custom presentation slowdown can be expensive—lowdown costs quickly increase arranging, improvement, and limit charges. Renting a corner, however, usually comes at a portion of the cost. It dispenses with the prerequisite for long-term endeavors and offers a more reasonable choice for associations attending different events yearly.
The Effect of Trade Show Exhibition Rental Cost
The size of the corner you pick will straightforwardly influence the rental expense. The Trade Show Exhibition Rental Cost is around $2,000 to $5,000 for a 10' x 10' space. In contrast, additional huge, more perplexing slows can cost between $10,000 and $50,000 or more, contingent upon their size and unpredictability. Separated slows down, which can be reconfigured for different events, are ordinarily on the more sensible finish of the reach. Various rental organizations offer exceptionally versatile slows, with decisions to change the size, plan, and plan to suit the specific event prerequisites. This grants exhibitors the ability to make a fruitful, checked space without the need to plan and work without any planning. Also, since the rental slowdown is used momentarily, associations can pick new plans or arrangements for each professional exhibition they join. Exhibit rental organizations habitually have a group of experienced originators who can help create an eye-catching show hand-crafted to your picture. This ensures that your slowdown remains in a crowded show entryway and stands out.
The Variation of Trade Show Exhibition Rentals Cost
The Trade Show Exhibition Rentals Cost slows down for a vocational exhibition and can vary based on several factors. The corner's size and multifaceted nature, alongside the event's region and the rental association's esteeming structure, add to the last cost. Uncommonly created corners, which could integrate outstanding plans, astute shows, and stamped representations, generally cost more than the norm. Pre-made slows down. Custom features, such as video walls, Driven lighting, furniture, or an interesting deck, can increase the rental expense. The region of the exhibition or show can influence rental costs, as charges habitually reflect nearby contrasts in labor costs, setting rental expenses, and transportation costs. Events held in critical metropolitan locales, such as New York, Las Vegas, or Chicago, may have higher related costs due to the greater interest in slow-downtown space and the expense of most regular things in those areas.
Conclusion
Exhibit rental organizations offer associations a monetarily sagacious, supportive, and capable technique for partaking in vocation exhibitions without the heaviness of building and keeping a custom corner. Exhibitors can make informed decisions that align with their goals by sorting out the components that influence rental costs, such as corner size, customization, event region, and additional organization sending plans. Whether you are a painstakingly pre-arranged exhibitor or going to your most noteworthy exhibition, renting a show slow down can streamline your experience and lift the benefit from your hypothesis.
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