《Fears to Fray》
Ch. 0: Prologue
Rain always seems to have impeccable timing, doesnt it? Its like it knows exactly when to come down and make life a little more difficult.
As luck would have it, the rain decides to come down just when Im out in the dark, cramped lanes all by myself. The dull clouds above exacerbate the situation; its like the sky itself chooses to remain concealed from me, casting a grey and gloomy pall over everything.
The occasional vending machines provide some faint light, but even their feeble glow struggles to pierce through the thick fog that has enveloped the area. I can barely see even five feet in front of me.
But you know what? The sound of each raindrop creates a unique pitter-patter that echoes through the vacant streets, forming a peaceful ambience during the storm.
Its a strangely comforting sound thats drawing me in, drowning out the sound of my own heavy breathing and hurried footsteps. Its almost like the rain is trying to soothe me, to let me know that everything will be all right.
However, its nights like this that remind me how afraid I am of the dark.
The endless possibilities of the unknown have always been terrifying, especially the lurking shadows. Not to mention the fact that Im alone; the bare thought of it is enough to send shivers down my spine.
Despite all of this, Im grateful for the rain. It might be making everything more difficult, but its also providing a sense of comfort and security in its own strange way.
As I continue to sprint, a peculiar sensation creeps in, and I feel lighter than usual. It takes me a moment to pinpoint the reason, but then it hits me. I dont have my bag with me.
I must have left it at Yume-chans place; I remember setting it down on the couch while we greeted each other.
Its such a careless mistake, and I cant believe that Im so forgetful. The bag contains all my essential items, including my laptop and phone charger.
I curse myself for being so forgetful.
The streets are quiet, and the night is still young. Its late enough that most people have retired to their homes, and theres hardly anyone around. Im only a few minutes from my apartment; Ill have to get it tomorrow.
In the meantime, maybe reflecting on the moments we spent studying together late at night could help relieve the pressure Im feeling.
I remember settling down in Yumes cosy living room, where we spread our notes, textbooks, and stationery on the coffee table. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, creating a perfect setting for our revision session.
A lamp lit the room, casting a soft glow and pushing back the encroaching darkness.
Despite our initial plan to focus solely on revision, our conversation quickly evolved into lively discussions about a range of topics
Ah! Hikari-chan. I totally forgot! Theres this cool novel I think youll like.
Oh, come on, Yume-chan. Another horror story? You know I despise horror.
Dont be such a wimp; just try it. Its got this intriguing plot twist that Im sure youll appreciate. Plus, the character develop
Fine, but if I cant sleep tonight, its on you.
I took the book she playfully shoved onto me and sighed. I guess I was a bit intrigued.
Deal! And dont worry, I promise its more thrilling than terrifying.
Yume grinned, sealing our impromptu deal.
You better hope so. I wont forgive you if I have nightmares.
I put the book in my bag and made a mental note to read it once I returned home. Cant really do that now since I left my bag at her place.
Anyway, after that, we slowly drew away from our studies.
Hikari-channn!
I felt a sudden weight on my back as Yume jumped onto me and let out a small sigh, trying not to sound too exasperated.
What is it this time? I asked her with a smile.
She paused, as if she didnt know what she wanted to do. However, she eventually thought of something.
I want to
watch a movie together? I finished for her.
Whahow did you know? Yume replied, feigning surprise.
Call it a lucky guess. So, any particular movie in mind, or are you just in the mood for cinematic exploration?
Yume pondered for a moment, her fingers tapping against my shoulder.
Hikari-chan, have you ever wondered what it would be like to time travel?
I chuckled at Yumes sudden shift in topic.
Time travel, huh? Thats a pretty big leap from horror novels.
Exactly! Thats the beauty of it. Imagine the possibilitiesgoing back to the past, seeing historical events unfold, or even glimpsing into the future. Its mind-boggling, isnt it?
Sure, its an interesting concept. But wouldnt it mess up the natural order of things?
Ah, but thats the dilemma, isnt it? The temptation to change things and the consequences of altering the course of history. Its a narrative goldmine!
While Yume was grinning mischievously, I arched an eyebrow in surprise, trying to keep up with Yumes sudden change of topic.
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Wait, are we talking about a movie or a time machine?
Yume paused for a moment as if thinking of the right words to say. Then she looked at me with a mischievous grin.
Were going to watch a sci-fi horr
No. I interrupted with a firm denial, not willing to entertain the idea of a sci-fi horror movie.
Okay, okay, how about The Dilemma in District Nine? Its not as thrilling, but its a good watch. Trust me.
She came up with an actual suggestion so quickly that it made me think she expected my response.
The Dilemma in District Nine? Sounds like a sci-fi flick about alien bureaucracy. Im in. Whats it about?
Yume eagerly launched into an animated description, detailing the plot and characters and even spoiling a few crucial moments. Shes always like that
After the movie, we just talked. We had a few conversations about memorable experiences and our challenges in life
However, during one of our conversations, the mood shifted as we delved into a more serious topic: my agateophobia.
As I opened up about my fears, Yumes empathy and understanding went beyond solely acknowledging them. She listened intently, offered words of support and encouragement, and even shared her own experiences with anxiety. Her compassion and genuine concern for my well-being made me feel understood and supported.
***
Lost in thought, I continue walking down the path when suddenly, out of nowhere, I hear a rustling in the bushes next to me, causing me to stop dead in my tracks.
What was that? I swear I saw something move.
I look around but see nothing unusual.
I pick up my pace, my heart beats faster, and sweat drips down my face.
But no matter how fast I run, I cant shake off the feeling of being watched. Each shadow seems to be mocking me, daring me to keep running. I can see shadows moving in the reflection of the puddles.
Its almost as if someone is following me, and their eyes are fixed on my every move. The hairs on the back of my neck stand up, and I start to feel increasingly uneasy.
I try to shake off the feeling, telling myself that its just my imagination playing tricks on me.
But suddenly, I trip and lose my footing over a crack in the pavement. The fall was sudden and unexpected, and I hit the ground hard with a loud thud. My ankle throbs with pain, but I ignore it as I try to regain my balance.
Thats when I noticed something even more alarming. The shadows around me seem to be getting closer, their faces twisting and morphing into one another.
I get up and start sprinting as fast as I can. My heart is pounding in my chest, and I can feel the sweat trickling down my face.
Gasping for breath, I sprint towards my apartment. The shadows, now transformed into bizarre humanoid forms with ever-changing faces, fuel my paranoia.
I eventually reach the outside of my apartment building. My hands are shaking as I fumble with my keys, trying to unlock the door.
Finally, I manage to unlock the door and stumble into the dimness of the cluttered apartment. I slam the door shut and lean against it, trying to catch my breath.
The lights are off, and the apartments heavy air makes me uneasy. I knew my parents would already be asleep, and in their blissful ignorance, they most likely assumed I would be staying over at Yumes.
They never give a second thought to my whereabouts or well-being.
I head straight to my room, the threadbare carpet muffling my footsteps.
The room is a chaotic mess, with clothes, books, and other belongings strewn haphazardly about. I can barely make out the outlines of my furniture in the dim glare, but I dont bother turning on the overhead light.
Instead, I switch on the small lamp beside my bed, casting a soft, yellow glow across the room.
Despite the disorderly state of my room, I collapse onto my bed, grateful for the tiny shred of comfort it provides. My body aches from the fall I took earlier, but the discomfort is nothing compared to the uneasiness that lingers from the events of the night.
I try to dismiss the feeling as mere paranoia, but I cant shake the sense that something isnt quite right.
The events of the night replay in my mind, and I try to dismiss them as mere figments of my imagination.
I glance over at the clock beside my bed and see that its already 00:45. The night has a way of distorting time, and Im surprised at how late it is.
Suddenly, my phone vibrates in my pocket, making me jump.
I still have my phone with me
I retrieve it from my pocket and see a message from Yume.
Mom''s still roasting me over the stove mishap. Debating whether peace pancakes can salvage my dignity.
<7:24>
Your Mom loves pancakes though she only loves mine. You being able to cook is as believable as pigs flying to Mars.
<7:25 - Read>
Probably why your cooking tastes like ash.
<7:25 - Read>
Easy there, Nobu. If I remember correctly you''re no culinary prodigy either.
<7:25 - Read>
Touch
<7:25 -Read>
What? Did hell just freeze over? Hikari-chan admitting to not being a culinary wizard
<7:26 - Read>
[Sun, Oct 6]
Guess who pulled a genius move and left their bag at my place? Spoiler alert: It''s you
<00:45 - Read>
I''ll be your saviour and bring it to school today because clearly you can''t be trusted with your own stuff
<00:45 - Read>
I remember that tomorrow is Monday, and a sense of dread washes over me.
With a deep sigh, I set my phone down in the drawer of my nightstand and allowed myself to relax. I close my eyes and try to push the unsettling thoughts from my mind. The silence of the room is only interrupted by the sound of my steady breathing as I drift off into a deep, dreamless slumber
***
I slowly regain consciousness and realise that Im in an unfamiliar and dark room. My heart starts to race as I try to figure out where I am. The darkness is so thick that I can barely see anything.
The air feels heavy and dense, and the silence is deafening. I try to blink away the sleep from my eyes, but the darkness remains.
I find myself lying on a cold, hard surface, with no pillows or blankets to comfort me. The only source of light seeps through a slightly open, rusty metal door. As I sit up, the room reveals its emptiness, with shadows dancing along the edges. No furniture, no windowjust the dim glow from the door.
I try to remember how I ended up here, but my memory is fuzzy. I dont recognise the room or the location. I start to feel a sense of panic and fear, wondering whats going on.
This isnt my room Wheres my bed? Did someone kidnap me? Is this a nightmare?
I slowly get up on my feet and stumble towards the door. I reach out and grab the handle, feeling its ragged, grimy metal in my hand. Then, with a deep breath, I push the door open.
As it reveals what lies beyond, a chill runs down my spine as I realise that Im not alone
Ch. 1: My Dreadful Descent Part 1
A massive lobby-like space that stretches out before me; its also strangely empty. The walls are made of ragged stone, and they give off a foreboding vibe. This room has seen better days.
In the centre of the room, theres a small pedestal that catches my eye. Upon it rests some sort of record of who we are, but it seems to have limited knowledge. This record may be some database or archive.
The ceiling is decently high, and the space is illuminated by a series of dimly lit torches that cast flickering shadows across the walls.
There are several doors scattered around the room, but theyre all closed.
One door, however, stands out from the others. It is about three times as big as the others, is marked EXIT, and has a passcode input device placed beside it.
But last but definitely not least
Eight people stand before me; six of them are from my class and are of my age, and the remaining two are our teacher, Masaru Shikaku, and the school counsellor, Kiyomi Ayumu.
Most of them look scared and uncertain, just like I feel, and then Ayumu speaks up.
Another one, huh That makes nin
Hikari-chan?!
My ears perk up as a familiar voice interrupts Ayumi.
Yume-chan? You got kidnapped too?
She nods as she strides towards me.
Its a relief to see someone I cherish, but at the same time, Im disheartened that shes stuck in this mess too.
Does anyone know where we are? A blonde boy spoke up.
As I have said before, were probably underground, judging by the dampness. Shikaku answered.
And those doors
Yume points to the many doors scattered around the room.
Where do you think they lead?
Everyone looked at each other in hopes of someone else answering.
Then suddenly, Shikaku steps closer to one of the doors, specifically the one marked E.
I guess well have to find ou
Wait!
But before he can finish his sentence, Ayumu interrupts him.
She walks over to the exit door and examines it.
If this is the exit, why would they make it so obvious?
Youre actin like thats a bad thing. A better chance of escape is what that gives us.
A boy with fiery red hair and a toned, athletic physique stepped forward and spoke up.
Ayumu shoots him a glare as Shikaku lays a hand on her shoulder to calm her down.
Ayumu-san, lets not make a scene.
He then wraps an arm around Ayumu, pulling her away, probably to speak privately to her.
All of a sudden, a static noise fills the room, causing everyone to look around, trying to locate the source. Then, a grey screen appears on a vacant wall, and on it, a shadowed figure appears.
On it, a shadowed figure appeared.
Greetings participants. You have been selected for a game where your lives will be on the lineyour fear will determine your path. Know that only four of you will have the amenity of surviving and escaping.
Suddenly, a small hatch opens up beside the screen revealing a singular object resting on a cushioned platform. A classic-looking revolver sits within the hatch, its polished barrel and chambers exuding an eerie sophistication. I dont know much about guns, but the sight of this firearm sends shivers down my spine.
But if any five players wish to end their lives prematurely, that is also acceptable.
A heavy silence hangs in the air until a platinum-blond gal breaks it.
Four live, five die This cant be real, right?
Were in some kind of fucked-up death game, arent we?
The red-haired boy announces.
Akagi-kun! Watch your lan
Who gives a shit about language when our lives are on the fuckin line?!
As much as Ayumu-sensei wanted to protest, he wasnt wrong. Takumi Akagis outburst, vulgar as it is, mirrors the collective frustration and disbelief of us all.
We shouldnt lose our composure. We need to figure out how to get out of this.
Yume gestures towards the scattered doors, questioning their purpose.
Where do you think they lead, Hikari-chan?
Thats when the figure speaks again, as if they were listening and anticipating our reactions.
Behind each doorway is a challenge conceived to mimic the fear in you all. Complete them and obtain a fragment of the code to flee. With that, you may unlock the exit gate and run with your life.
The screen fizzles out, leaving us with more questions than answers. Amidst the apprehension, a soft murmur emerges from a brown-haired boy.
Fear-inducing challenges? I cant believe this. This has to be some sick joke, right?
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His disbelief lingers, but the ominous atmosphere in the room provides no comfort.
Yume and I glance at each other, knowing we have to stick together to survive.
Akagis frustration changes into a bitter laugh.
Fear-inducing challenges my ass. I didnt sign up for this crap.
I agree with Akagi-san. I speak up, but the mention of challenges tailored to our worst fears sends a shiver down my spine.
I glare at the screen that now displays the rules.
Rule I: The exit gate will not open if more than four people remain alive, even if you have the full code.
Rule II: Time is crucial. Once you have completed two challenges, a time limit of 9 hours will begin.
Rule III: Any additional methods of escape are forbidden.
Rule IV: Any disobedience will lead to punishment, which can be universal, such as the timer activating early, or individual, such as a painful death. Depending on what rule has been broken.
Rule five and beyond are all blurred. I assume the person behind this game doesnt want us to know them yet, though whether they apply or not currently is the issue.
Fuck the rules, Im busting through the exit door. Akagi still protests, insisting on breaking the rules and forcing his way out.
Ayumu tries reasoning with him, but hes having none of it.
The figure said itll open if more than four remain alive. So if I smash through the door, it should work, right?
We dont know how durable that door is, and I doubt the Game Master would allow that to happen.
We dont fucking know unless we try!
Akagi charges towards the exit door and collides with it creating a loud this.
Ayumu grabbed him and pulled him away; her long, flowing black hair danced gracefully in the air, adding to her already impressive display of agility and strength. Despite the urgency of the situation, Ayumu remained calm and focused.
This is not how were going to solve th
During their struggle, a loud clanging sound filled the room.
Rule V has been disobeyed. Activating Universal Punishment: Permanent activation of the timer.
A robotic female voice, eerily calm, announces.
Thank you for demonstrating the consequences of disobedience. Hopefully, you will not repeat it.
We turn to the screen, and a timer appears on the top left.
8 hours and 59 minutes.
Akagi curses as Ayumu loosens her grip.
You fucking IDIOT! Were going to DIE because of you!
The platinum-blond gal shouts at Akagi as her hand smacks his face sternly.
Sai-chan, stop; violence wont help.
Yume interjects, grabbing Riko Sais hand and trying to calm her down.
We have 9 hours now Akagi-kun. Please beha Shikaku firmly says before being cut off by an authoritative yet alluring voice.
If you all havent noticed yet, the markings on the doors spell something out.
Everyones attention is drawn to a tall girl with long, white hair that extends down to her legs, who looks incredibly beautiful with her porcelain skin and deep blue eyes. Her body is slender and toned, and her movements are graceful.
Eh? Shiray-chan? What do you mean?.
Each door has a singular letter on it; its English, I may add, and when we put them together, it spells Vengeance.
Kurogetsu Shiray points to each door, and sure enough, the letters add up.
And sure enough, the letters add up to spell Vengeance.
Uhm, Shiray-chan? What is Vengeance?
Its the English form of .(Fukush)
Why Vengeance? Did we somehow piss someone off to the point where a death game was the only way to redeem ourselves?
The room fell silent as everyone pondered the significance of the word.
So, they spell out Vengeance, alright What the fuck does that have to do with anything?
Akagi speaks up, still feeling the sting from Sais slap.
It could mean anything. Shiray-san any theories?
Yui Masumi asks, her glasses glinting slightly.
Whoever this game master is knows us. Thats definite.
Yume Ishida turns to Shiray, who replies softly.
They know us? How could they possibly know all of us?
I glanced at Yume, our expressions reflecting the same confusion.
Its not impossible. They couldve stalked us or had connections to our teachers.
If thats the case, then theres a high chance its someone from our school.
Everyone went silent, and after a brief moment, Akagi spoke up again.
Dont spout bullshit, who in our school would even have the time to set something as ridiculous as this up?
Everyone went silent, and after a brief moment, Akagi spoke up again.
Dont spout bullshit, who in our school would even have the time to set something as ridiculous as this up?
Silence again, and everyone collectively thinks; the stillactive timer isnt making this any better either.
I dont mean to interrupt the moment, but is anyone keeping an eye on the timer? It would be problematic if it hit zero before we solved anything, after all.
The brown-haired guy added, prompting everyone to look at him, slightly startled.
For the first time, Kimura-kun is right, were all screwed if we spend too much time chitchatting.
Yukihiro Kimura blushed at those words, turning his head away from Sai and staring at the timer instead.
So now we have to see whats behind these doors, then?
Well we dont have any other options.
Akagi strides confidently towards the door marked A.
The rest of us exchange uncertain glances, knowing that whatever lies beyond these doors may test us in ways we cant fully comprehend.
What the?
Is there a problem, Akagi-kun?
Locked? Seriously? He mutters, rattling the handle with increasing intensity.
The door is locked?!
Maybe we should try another door.
Ive already tried door V, its locked too.
Shirays eyes scan the room, assessing the situation.
Shikaku-sensei, do you have any ideas about how to proceed?
Shikakus eyes narrow, contemplating the locked doors.
Well, breaking through them isnt an option, and time is ticking. Well have to split into groups and check the remaining doors. But be cautious, we dont know what challenges await behind them.
I feel a little conflicted with this idea.
Despite the urgency of the situation, my scepticism lingers as the group contemplates the idea of splitting into smaller teams to explore the mysterious challenges behind each door.
Doesnt fuckin matter, we have no choice.
Akagis rough tone contrasts sharply with his refined appearance.
I feel a little conflicted with this idea.
Despite the urgency of the situation, my scepticism lingers as the group contemplates the idea of splitting into smaller teams to explore the mysterious challenges behind each door.
I sigh a deep breath, hoping this doesnt end badly.
Akagi, Kimura, and Masumi attempt to open door C, I, Ayumu, and Yume, attempt to door E, and Sai, Shikaku, and Shiray attempt to open door V.
They all wouldnt budge.
[v1] Ch. 1.1: My Dreadful Descent Part 2
Akagis frustration seems to be reaching its boiling point as he relentlessly tugs at the door handle, pulling it with all his strength.
Despite his efforts, the door remains tightly shut, as if it is mocking him.
Come on, why wont this damn thing open?!
The more he tries, the angrier he becomes. He has probably tried everything he can think of, but nothing seems to work.
The door wont budge, no matter how hard he pulls.
He takes a deep breath, trying to calm himself down.
Calm down. Lets regroup and come up with a new strategy.
Shirays cool-headedness has an immediate effect on the rest of us. We all breathe a collective sigh of relief, grateful to have someone else take charge.
Maybe theres a mechanism we have to operate.
Like what? If we dont figure that out, well die before we even try a goddamn room!
I get it; this is a hopeless situation, but maybe the exit wont open until weve beaten a certain room.
The situation is still dire, and everyone is aware of the fact that time is running out.
At this rate, therell be no survivors
Kimura mutters bitterly.
I sigh heavily. There are so many uncertainties and unknowns. But with the absence of information and the increasing anxiety, this will have to suffice.
Akagi seems determined to try every door in the room, even though it is becoming increasingly evident that none of them will open.
Do you think the gun has anything to do with it? Kimura, who is watching from a distance, asks.
The gun? You arent sayin'' we have to kill someone to open a door, are you?
No! Of course not! Kimura hastily clarifies.
Well, then what the hell could it mean?! We cant solve any riddles or mechanisms without walking through a goddamn door! Which is currently impossible right now cause'' they''re all locked.
I meant maybe the gun has a key or a code in it.
Its just a theory, but think about it, Akagi. We have tried multiple solutions, and nothing has worked. Maybe this gun is the key to unlocking the door. It could have some sort of hidden compartment or engraving that reveals a code or a clue.
Shiray takes a deep breath and speaks with a calm and captivating voice.
He may be right.
She turns towards Ayumu, who is standing beside her.
We cant dismiss any possibilities at this point.
Ayumu nods in agreement and gazes down at Kimura with a pensive expression.
If the gun is related, it must be in a way we havent considered.
Well, guess well check then.
I take the gun from its resting place and begin examining it closely.
The metallic grip is cold to the touch, sending shivers down my spine.
As my fingers brush against the grip, I notice a tiny code engraved on it. Its so small that I almost missed it. I squint my eyes and lean in closer to get a better look. Theres definitely something there.
There is something I mutter, noticing a tiny code engraved on the grip.
Everyone huddles around me like a bunch of conspiracy theorists, examining this tiny numeric code on the gun.
Great, now what?!
Door G has an input pad on it. Yume reveals.
We all turn to look at the door, and sure enough, theres a small keypad next to the handle. The keypad is old and worn, with faded numbers that are barely visible in the dim light.
And no one pointed that out?!
It feels as if everyone was waiting for someone to speak up to break the tense atmosphere.
Though, instead, we quickly make our way towards the door, our footsteps echoing loudly in the silent room. I take a deep breath and punch in the numbers. The input pad flashes green with a high-pitched beep, and the door slowly opens with a creaking sound.
The airs thick with a musty smell, and I can feel the dampness seeping into my clothes.
The input pad then reveals another piece of information, which reads:
Maximum Capacity: 3 Participants. Difficulty Level: 4 of 9
Only three people can enter Does anyone have a preference on who should go in first? Ayumu asks the group.
Im not going if Agaki-sans going. That fuckwit would probably get us killed.
I can see the rage in Agakis eyes as he clenches his fists tightly, ready to jump to Sais throat.
Listen here, you piece of
But Ayumu intervened, trying to keep peace.
Lets settle this peacefully!
Fine. How about you, Kimura? Agaki responds.
Kimura looks hesitant, his eyes darting around nervously. Hes clearly scared, and who can blame him? Were all scared, I think. This game could kill us, after all.
Um I really dont want to; Im really scared about what could happen, especially since the game master could kill us
Agaki rolled his eyes dramatically and turned away.
Whatever, youre dead weight anyway. We should just have Ishida-san and Shimizu-san enter.
Akagis words are like a slap in the face, and I shoot him an icy glare. Is he trying to set me up for something?
We should decide fairly, Akagi-kun.
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Ayumu''s voice is stern, and I can tell that her glare is directed at him, not me.
Okay, who wants to enter the first room? Please put your hands up.
Shikaku raises his hand, and I can feel a sense of relief wash over me. I know hell keep us safe.
Akagi arrogantly thrust his hand into the air, clearly enjoying the attention.
Seeing Shikaku-sensei raise his hand, I hesitantly follow suit, not wanting to seem indecisive. I can see the satisfaction on Akagis face, and I wonder if I misread his expression. Its hard to tell sometimes.
Well, its been decided. Shikaku-sensei, Akagi-san, and Shimizu-san will be entering the first roo
"Be safe, Hikari-chan, and dont you dare die on me! I wont forgive you if you do.
Yumes grip on my arm tightens; her worry is tangible.
I need you to promise me for real. No empty reassurances. This place its terrifying. I cant bear the thought of losing you.
Yumes gaze lingers on me, her expression a mix of fear and hope; I shift uncomfortably, the weight of Yumes concern pressing on me.
Yume-chan, I I cant promise something like that. This place is messed up, and I dont have all the answers. Im scared too.
Yumes grip tightens, her expression desperate.
But we have to have some plan, right? What if things go south? What then?
I swallow hard, searching for words.
I dont have a grand plan, Yume-chan. All I can promise is that Ill do my best to navigate through this chaos. Its terrifying, and Im not some superhero. Im just as lost as everyone else here.
I I want to believe you have something in mind, Hikari-chan. But this place, its so unpredictable What if
Her voice trails off, leaving the unspoken fears hanging in the air. I understand her anxiety; were all facing the unknown, and the uncertainty of our situation is daunting.
What if the rooms are rigged? What if theres something more to this game that we dont understand?
I take a moment to consider her questions, realizing that voicing my own doubts wont help. Instead, I focus on being a source of comfort.
Yume-chan, I cant promise that everything will be easy or that we wont encounter challenges. But I can promise you that Ill do everything in my power to make sure we both make it out of this.
Yumes lips quiver with a hesitant smile, appreciating the sentiment.
Okay, Hikari-chan. Just be careful. And if things get too dangerous, prioritize your safety over everything else, alright?
I nod, grateful for Yumes concern.
I will, Yume-chan. And you stay safe too. Well meet again on the other side of this room.
I try to sound confident, but my voice comes out as a shaky whisper. I turn back to face the front, feeling a little more reassured by her words.
However, Shikaku-sensei remains silent throughout the process, his eyes fixed on the darkness ahead. I can feel the tension in the air as we descend into the unknown.
We take a step down the staircase, and the rusty, metallic door slams shut behind us.
Its a daunting feeling to know that we were venturing into the unknown with little to no support.
But we have to keep going; we have to face whatever lies ahead of us and overcome it. Oi, whatcha think the othersre gonna be doing? I bet they aint gonna be safe for long.
What makes you say that, Akagi-san? I questioned his pessimism, attempting to maintain a sense of hope.
Its obvious, isnt it? The only people in here are you, sensei, and me. Whats gonna stop the other idiots from killin themselves somehow, huh? Theres a fuckin gun in that damn room!
Why would you think theyd do that?! Theyre our classmates! We cant give up on them!
I try to argue back against Akagis accusation without success.
You may be an idiot, but that doesnt mean everyone else is either. Theyll figure it out soon enough.
Silence, you two! Weve arrived.
Shikaku-senseis authoritative voice halted our exchange as the massive door screeched open, revealing a square room with a partially see-through grate floor.
Just what I needed to fulfil my lifelong dream of peering straight into the abyss.
The sudden grinding sound behind us marked the doors closure, trapping us in the room with no further knowledge. The gravity of the situation became apparent as Akagi muttered a concise Well, shit.
The moment that door slammed shut, my heart hammered against my ribs like it wanted out, but my exterior, oh, it played cool.
Theres a digital clock on the other side of the room, above what I assume to be the exit door, reading 9:09 beside what seems to be a timer ticking down from 10:00.
The walls surrounding me are rough, jagged rock and brick. However, they are painted with what appears to be a pattern of red paint in a numeric sequence. As I glance around, I notice four levers positioned on the left and right walls under the sequences, which could potentially be used to trigger something important.
To the left of the exit door lies a massive crate with a metallic black safe above it, locked tight.
Akagi takes a few feisty steps forward, approaching the safe with a hardened glare.
This safe Its gotta have somethin important inside, right?
Akagi and Sensei exchange looks, probably plotting how to crack open the safe, but my minds too busy screaming, Get me out of here!
My knees are shaking like jelly, and Im trying to play it cool, but this room feels like a cruel joke designed to expose my deepest fear.
Oi, Shimizu-san, you alright? You look paler than a ghost.
Akagis voice cut through my spiralling thoughts.
Yeah, Im fine. Just thrilled to be standing on what feels like a bridge to my demise.
You scared of heights or somethin?
I look away, silently acknowledging his spot-on observation. Heights terrify me, and this see-through grate floor doesnt help. It feels like Im standing on a tightrope between life and a bottomless pit.
The self-absorbed mess known as Akagi struts over like hes the king of the world; everything gets fuzzy as he approaches. My palms are slick with sweat, and my heartbeat is echoing louder than his voice.
Suddenly, his foot connects with a tile, and it breaks off, crashing down the pit.
In an instant, I lunge forward as Akagi slips and drops halfway down the newly formed hole.
Akagi-san!
Shikaku-sensei rushes towards us and grabs Akagis other arm.
You moron, stop wiggling! Youre making this harder! I snap, my voice sharper than intended. But who can blame me? The situations messed up, and hes not helping.
He glares back, and I can see the fear in his eyes. For a moment, I forget the irritation, realising were all just clinging to this fragile existence, desperately trying not to slip into the abyss below.
Easy for you to say, Shimizu-san! Youre not the one dangling over god-knows-what!
My grip tightens on Akagis arm as he dangles precariously over the pit, his life hanging by a thread, or in this case, my desperate attempt at strength.
Shikaku-senseis got the other arm, but the dudes heavy, and my muscles are protesting more than a kid at bedtime.
And then, like a sudden wave of dj vu, Akagi slips a bit more, and my heart leaps into my throat.
I yank Akagi with all my strength, and it feels easier for some reason, and he finally lands on solid ground. The relief is short-lived, as the clock mocks us, ticking away. Akagi, bruised but alive, shoots me a look, and I can almost hear him saying, Thanks, but dont expect gratitude.
I gaze at the timer, which now displays 8:51. Weve wasted more than a minute with Akagi, and as they remember that were on a time limit, Im more focused on the fact that I did not once hear the panel hit the ground.
I must have missed it when I was pulling up Akagi-san yeah, that must be it Also, how are we able to see with no light source?
Shimizu-san! Get your ass over here!
Akagis voice pulls me from my thoughts, and I force my focus back to the room.
Carefully, I stagger towards Akagi and Shikaku-sensei, trying to shake off the unease gnawing at me. The grated floor feels more precarious than ever.
Sensei, any brilliant ideas on how to rout this room?
Akagi shoots him a glance, seeking guidance.
He raises an eyebrow with an unreadable expression.
We need to figure out the levers purpose and that safe. And quickly.
Actually, I want to know whats in that crate. There s an Xon its side.
That might be a good idea, Shimizu-san; I didnt even notice that. You get an A in observation!
Is this really the time for praise, Sensei?
We gather around the crate, the X standing out like a warning.
My mind races; thoughts are jumbled and uneasy. I cant help but wonder if this X marks the spot where our troubles multiply.
Alright, lets see whats in this thing. Akagi declares, his hands ready to pry open the mysterious container.