**Chapter 2: First Steps into a Changed World**
The morning sun streamed through Jae-Hyun's window, casting a warm glow over the familiar mess of his apartment. Empty ramen containers littered the coffee table, a testament to his late-night gaming sessions. But the world outside was anything but familiar.
He switched on the TV, the news channels abuzz with reports of "Awakened" individuals displaying incredible powers. A woman in China summoning a miniature dragon from thin air. A man in Brazil lifting a bus with his bare hands. The world had become a fantastical, terrifying place overnight.
Jae-Hyun felt a pang of anxiety. He wasn't cut out for this. He was a gamer, not a hero. But the insistent buzzing of his phone snapped him out of his thoughts. It was an unknown number.
"Hello?" he answered hesitantly.
"Mr. Kang Jae-Hyun? This is Agent Park from the World Council," a crisp, official voice responded. "We've been reviewing your... profile. Your expertise in Elysium makes you a valuable asset. We request your presence at our Seoul headquarters."
Jae-Hyun hung up, a mix of apprehension and curiosity swirling within him. He glanced at his reflection in the darkened TV screen. Tired eyes stared back, framed by messy hair. He was just an ordinary guy, thrust into extraordinary circumstances.
He spent the rest of the morning in a daze, the news reports a constant backdrop to his uneasy thoughts. Finally, he forced himself to get ready. He pulled on a clean shirt, wincing as he caught sight of his pale, skinny arms. He wasn't exactly hero material.
The World Council headquarters was a towering skyscraper, a symbol of authority in the newly chaotic world. Jae-Hyun felt a surge of intimidation as he stepped into the sleek, modern lobby. He was ushered into a meeting room, where a group of serious-looking officials awaited him.
Agent Park, a stern woman with a sharp gaze, introduced him to the team. There was Dr. Lee, a renowned scientist studying the phenomenon of the Awakened, and General Choi, a grizzled military veteran tasked with maintaining order.
"Mr. Kang," Agent Park began, "we believe your knowledge of Elysium can help us understand the dungeons that have appeared across the globe. We need you to guide a team into these dangerous realms and assess the threats within."
Jae-Hyun felt a wave of panic. He was just a gamer, not a soldier. He stammered a protest, but Agent Park cut him off.
"This is not a request, Mr. Kang. The fate of the world may depend on your cooperation."
Jae-Hyun looked around the room, the weight of their expectations pressing down on him. He had no choice. He was the Last Player, and the world needed him.