We returned to the camp where Ryan and Daisy had been monitoring us. After a quick energy refill, we gathered around as they played back the videos recorded from the elite guard members' guild pins, which had cameras embedded in them. Liam's footage was all shaky, eliciting some laughs, but Damian's point of view was clear and precise. Aiden's footage was also impressive, showcasing why Damian was the second vice; his skills were evident and accurate.
Ryan and Damian took turns pointing out our mistakes and areas for improvement, using the footage as a guide.
While reviewing the videos, I couldn't help but ask, "Ummm, quick question—how did they find the cheat code again?"
Astrid chuckled at my question, knowing I was too distracted by everything going on to pay attention earlier. Damian replied, "It's at the end when the two doors appeared." Liam added, "You were too busy scanning your surroundings."
I sighed, feeling a bit embarrassed for missing such a crucial part.
Astrid handed me an energy drink, smiling reassuringly. "Don't worry, you'll be training in the same level for a few more days. You can check it out then."
"Some days?" Karun frowned.
Damian spoke up, "Yeah, mostly two days so you can get used to the game and learn how to use the cheat code."
After a brief discussion, we entered the first level again. Ryan proposed we start our training right away. This time, I focused on all the details I had missed earlier. Astrid explained the finer points as we progressed.
When we entered the final void, I noticed a new button beside the two doors, shaped like a diamond and colored violet. Damian stepped forward with a small device, no bigger than a thumb drive.
"This is the key," he explained. "When we reach the white void, I'll show you how to use it." He connected the device to a drive below the violet button. A holographic interface, no larger than two palms, appeared, floating in mid-air. The interface was sleek and advanced, with symbols and codes rapidly scrolling across its surface.
"Watch closely," Damian said, his fingers moving swiftly over the holographic keys. "We need to decode the cheat code quickly. It's like solving a puzzle under pressure."
I watched as the codes flickered, feeling the urgency. Damian's practiced efficiency made it look easy, and soon enough, the final piece of the code fell into place. The interface flashed, indicating the cheat code had been successfully decoded.
"Got it!" Damian exclaimed.
Astrid smiled, "Great job. Now, let's use it to our advantage."
With the device, we had a new edge in the game. As we continued training, I couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to this game than we were being told. But for now, our focus was on mastering the levels and uncovering any secrets that could help us succeed.
This time, our training was more intense. Ryan explained that we could program the cheat code at the start of the game, but it had to be done quickly before the game began. We tried following his instructions. We didn't actually need to hide from the assassins, though clearing the obstacles through the forest still took almost 4-5 hours every time we entered, as the forest seemed to change each time.
After one particularly grueling session, Liam called me and Karun over. "Let me show you how to get the cheat code for the next level," he said. We returned to the white void, where he connected the device again. "This drive below the violet button is where you connect the device," he explained. "Once it's connected, the interface appears. You need to decode the cheat code quickly."
He demonstrated once more, and this time, I paid close attention. "When you have the cheat code, it will give you an edge in the next level. But remember, it only works if you're fast and accurate."
At the bottom, there was a selection bar that revealed the game's details: "Assassin Version" and "Mind Game." The initials "K.K." were inscribed at the bottom with alert symbols.
"So, that must be the crazy designer?" I said, looking at the initials.
Astrid nodded. "Yes, they are."
"They?" I repeated, catching her slip.
Astrid quickly tried to cover up. "Did I say they? Haha." But I could see the unease in her eyes. Something was off. What were they trying to hide from us?
Damian, sensing the tension, jumped in. "Come on, Ryan must be waiting on the other side." He pushed us toward the exit.
After the long training, we were taken back to the villa by Aiden. I was so exhausted that I didn't even feel like eating, but Hemma practically forced us to have dinner, insisting we needed to eat to gain energy for the next day's harsh training. After finishing dinner, we headed straight to our rooms, dead tired.
Nothing comforts you like finding yourself on a fluffy bed after a long, exhausting day of work. As soon as I hit the mattress, I fell into a deep slumber.
Luckily, I didn't have any nightmares of the mysterious visitor, so I could sleep well and be ready to train well the next day.