This is an artistic exploration of an alternative reality where mysterious portals, known as "Gates" have opened across the globe, leading to dangerous dungeons and the emergence of individuals with extraordinary abilities. This project delves into the social, economic, political, and technological consequences of this event, examining how humanity has adapted and responded to the challenges and opportunities presented by this new reality.
Through a collection of research papers, this project aims to provide a glimpse into this alternative world, exploring topics such as the rise of hunter guilds, the impact on traditional industries, the development of new technologies, and the ethical and social implications of the awakened population.
This project is an ongoing work of fiction and is intended to spark imagination and critical thinking about the potential consequences of extraordinary events and the ways in which human societies might adapt and respond to them.
On January 1, 2025, the world as we knew it changed forever. Mysterious portals, known as "gates," appeared in densely populated areas across the globe. These portals served as gateways to vast, enclosed environments called "dungeons," filled with valuable resources, rare treasures, and dangerous creatures with extraordinary abilities.
The emergence of these dungeons and their monstrous inhabitants, colloquially referred to as "monsters," led to widespread chaos and destruction. Governments and militaries struggled to contain the threat, and the initial wave of monster attacks resulted in significant loss of life and damage to infrastructure.
However, amidst the chaos, a glimmer of hope emerged. A small portion of the human population began to exhibit extraordinary abilities, becoming "awakened" individuals with enhanced physical and mental capabilities. These abilities, ranging from increased strength and speed to elemental manipulation and psychic powers, allowed awakened individuals to combat the monsters and explore the dungeons more effectively than ordinary humans.
These awakened individuals, also known as "hunters," quickly organized themselves into guilds, which served as support networks, training grounds, and operational units for dungeon exploration and monster combat. Hunter guilds have become crucial actors in the post-catastrophe world, as they control access to valuable dungeon resources and possess the expertise necessary to navigate the dangers of these environments.
The 2025 catastrophe has had a profound impact on all aspects of human society. The global economy has been reshaped by the emergence of dungeon-based resources and industries, while political landscapes have been altered by the rise of hunter guilds and the need for new governance structures to address the challenges posed by the dungeons.
The research papers presented in this repository explore the various social, economic, political, and technological consequences of the 2025 catastrophe and the emergence of awakened individuals and hunter guilds. By investigating these issues from diverse perspectives and disciplines, we can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by this new reality and work towards building a more resilient and equitable future for all.
• Nowak, E., & Kowalska, A. (2027). Coping with the trauma of awakening. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 83(4), 612-627. PDF
This study investigates the psychological impact of awakening on individuals in the aftermath of the 2025 catastrophe, which saw the emergence of a small portion of the population with extraordinary abilities. Through a series of in-depth interviews and psychological assessments, we examine the challenges faced by newly awakened individuals, such as coming to terms with their new abilities, navigating social stigma, and adapting to the demands of hunter guilds and dungeon exploration. Our findings highlight the importance of mental health interventions and resources for awakened individuals, as well as the need for public education and awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and promote understanding.
• Fujita, H., & Miyamoto, Y. (2026). Shinto rituals and the spiritual significance of the catastrophe in Japan. Japanese Journal of Religious Studies, 53(2), 179-194. PDF
This study explores the role of Shinto rituals and beliefs in shaping Japanese responses to the catastrophic events of 2025, including the emergence of portals and dungeons. Through a combination of participant observation and interviews with Shinto priests and practitioners, the authors investigate how these events have been interpreted within the Shinto worldview and how they have influenced ritual practices and spiritual discourses. The findings suggest that the catastrophe has been seen as a manifestation of the power of the kami (gods and spirits) and as a call for humans to restore harmony with the natural and supernatural worlds. The paper discusses the ways in which Shinto rituals, such as purification ceremonies and offerings, have been adapted to address the spiritual challenges posed by the portals and dungeons, and how they have provided a source of comfort and resilience for many Japanese people in the face of the post-catastrophe reality.
• Kim, S., & Lee, J. (2027). The awakened population in South Korea: Demographics, abilities, and social integration. Journal of Supernatural Studies, 16(1), 77-92. PDF
This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the awakened population in South Korea, focusing on their demographic characteristics, the nature and distribution of their abilities, and the challenges they face in social integration. Drawing upon a nationwide survey and in-depth interviews with awakened individuals, the authors provide insights into the age, gender, and socioeconomic profiles of this unique population segment. The findings reveal a wide range of abilities among the awakened, from enhanced physical capabilities to psychokinetic powers, with a small subset of individuals possessing abilities of extraordinary strength and complexity. The paper also examines the social and cultural barriers encountered by the awakened, including stigma, discrimination, and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. The authors discuss the implications of these findings for policymakers and social support services, highlighting the need for inclusive and responsive measures to foster the well-being and integration of the awakened population in South Korea.
• Chen, X., & Liu, J. (2026). The emergence of supernatural terrorism and its impact on global security. International Journal of Supernatural Security Studies, 3(1), 44-58. PDF
This study investigates the emergence of supernatural terrorism in the post-catastrophe world. The authors examine the motivations, tactics, and impact of terrorist groups that seek to exploit the powers of awakened individuals for ideological, political, or religious purposes. The findings highlight the unique challenges posed by supernatural terrorism, such as the difficulty of detecting and countering abilities that defy conventional security measures, the psychological impact of attacks that blur the line between the natural and the supernatural, and the potential for escalation and arms races among state and non-state actors. The paper discusses the need for international cooperation, innovative security strategies, and counter-radicalization efforts to address the threat of supernatural terrorism.
• Fedorova, N., & Sokolov, A. (2027). The role of state-owned enterprises in Russia's post-catastrophe resource management strategy. Problems of Economic Transition, 59(3-4), 180-195. PDF
This study investigates the role of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in Russia's resource management strategy following the 2025 catastrophe and the emergence of dungeons. Drawing upon interviews with government officials and SOE managers, the authors analyze how these enterprises have been mobilized to control and exploit the anomalous resources found within Russian dungeons. The findings suggest that SOEs have played a crucial role in securing the state's monopoly over these resources, often at the expense of private sector participation and competition. The paper discusses the implications of this state-centric approach for Russia's economic development and its relations with other countries in the post-catastrophe world.
• Ishikawa, H., & Nakajima, Y. (2026). Japan's "Hunter Council" and its influence on national policy-making. Japanese Journal of Political Science, 17(3), 310-325. PDF
This study investigates the role and influence of Japan's ``Hunter Council'' in shaping national policies related to dungeons, awakened individuals, and resource management following the 2025 catastrophe. Drawing upon interviews with council members, government officials, and other stakeholders, the authors analyze how this unique advisory body, composed of experienced hunters and guild leaders, has navigated the complex political landscape of post-catastrophe Japan. The findings suggest that the Hunter Council has played a significant role in informing government decisions on issues such as dungeon exploration regulations, awakened individual training programs, and the allocation of resources for research and development. However, the study also reveals concerns about the council's transparency, accountability, and potential conflicts of interest, raising questions about the democratic legitimacy of its influence on national policy-making.
• Nowak, E., & Kowalska, A. (2027). Mana control techniques: Best practices for instructing awakened individuals. Journal of Psychokinesis and Parapsychology, 33(2), 120-134. PDF
This study presents a comprehensive analysis of mana control techniques and best practices for instructing awakened individuals in the post-catastrophe world. The authors examine various training methods employed by hunter guilds and specialized institutions to help awakened individuals harness and control their unique abilities, which often involve the manipulation of mana. The findings highlight the importance of personalized approaches, gradual progression, and mental discipline in mastering mana control. The paper also discusses the potential risks and ethical considerations associated with the use of mana-based abilities, both in the context of dungeon exploration and in everyday life.
• Kim, H.-w., Lee, J.-s., & Sato, T. (2027). The emergence of hunter guilds in response to the portal catastrophe. Journal of Interdimensional Sociology, 5(1), 35-48. PDF
This study explores the emergence and evolution of hunter guilds as key social institutions in the wake of the 2025 catastrophe, which saw the appearance of portals leading to dungeons filled with dangerous creatures. The authors trace the historical development of hunter guilds in different regions, examining their organizational structures, recruitment practices, and roles in dungeon exploration and monster combat. The findings highlight the significance of hunter guilds as sources of identity, belonging, and support for awakened individuals, as well as their complex relationships with governments, local communities, and each other. The paper discusses the implications of the rise of hunter guilds for social stratification, power dynamics, and the formation of new cultural practices and traditions in the post-catastrophe world.
• Sakamoto, Y., & Kobayashi, K. (2027). The economics of dungeon raiding: Risk, reward, and resource allocation. Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, 142, 678-692. PDF
This paper investigates the economic dynamics of dungeon raiding in the aftermath of the 2025 catastrophe, which saw the emergence of mysterious portals leading to treacherous, enclosed environments filled with valuable resources and powerful creatures. We develop a theoretical model of resource allocation and risk-reward trade-offs in dungeon raiding, taking into account the unique abilities of hunter-awakened individuals and the organizational structures of hunter guilds. Using data from Japanese hunter guilds, we empirically test the model's predictions and find evidence of a positive relationship between dungeon difficulty and resource yields, as well as a significant role of social networks in mitigating information asymmetries and moral hazard problems in guild-based raiding. Our findings highlight the importance of institutional arrangements and market design in shaping the efficiency and equity of the emerging dungeon economy.
• Sato, R., Takahashi, N., and Watanabe, H. (2026). The organizational structures of hunter guilds in Japan. Journal of Organizational Studies, 18(3):279–295. PDF
This study investigates the diverse organizational structures of hunter guilds that have emerged in Japan following the 2025 catastrophe and the subsequent appearance of portals leading to dangerous, resource-rich environments known as dungeons. Drawing on a nationwide survey and in-depth interviews with guild leaders and members, the authors identify and analyze four distinct types of guild structures: (1) Hierarchical Guilds: characterized by a clear chain of command, centralized decision-making, and specialized roles for members; (2) Networked Guilds: consisting of loosely connected, independent hunters who collaborate on specific missions; (3) Cooperative Guilds: featuring shared ownership and democratic decision-making among members; and (4) Hybrid Guilds: combining elements of hierarchical, networked, and cooperative structures. The authors argue that the choice of organizational structure is influenced by factors such as guild size, the complexity of dungeons explored, the degree of specialization among hunters, and the level of trust and cooperation within the guild. The study also examines the advantages and disadvantages associated with each type of structure, highlighting the trade-offs between efficiency, flexibility, and member autonomy. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the organizational dynamics of hunter guilds and provide insights into how these structures adapt to the challenges and opportunities of the post-catastrophe world.
• Nakamura, T., & Yamamoto, S. (2026). Classifying awakened abilities: A typology and research agenda. Journal of Supernatural Studies, 2(3), 200-215. PDF
In the aftermath of the 2025 catastrophe, which saw the emergence of portals leading to perilous dungeons and the awakening of a small portion of the population with extraordinary abilities, the need for a comprehensive typology of awakened abilities has become increasingly pressing. This paper proposes a classification system based on the Fujita-Sato (F-S) scale, which categorizes abilities according to their power level and potential impact. We review existing research on the nature and distribution of awakened abilities, identify key research gaps, and outline a research agenda for advancing our understanding of this phenomenon. Our findings highlight the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, longitudinal studies, and the integration of awakened individuals' perspectives in future research efforts.
• Choi, J. Y., & Park, H. S. (2027). Developing standardized measures for mana and awakened abilities: A psychometric approach. Journal of Mana and Ability Assessment. PDF
In the wake of the 2025 catastrophe, which saw the emergence of dungeon portals and the awakening of a small portion of the population with extraordinary abilities, the need for a comprehensive assessment framework for mana and awakened abilities has become increasingly pressing. This paper proposes a standardized set of measures based on the Fujita-Sato (F-S) scale, which categorizes both dungeons and awakened individuals according to their power levels. We review existing research on the nature and distribution of mana and awakened abilities, identify key research gaps, and outline a psychometric approach for developing and validating the proposed measures. Our findings highlight the importance of a reliable and valid assessment framework for advancing our understanding of these phenomena and informing the training and management of awakened individuals.
(all the papers are generated using Claude 3)