The anticipation mounted, our group and all the others were directed to separate entrances leading into the labyrinth.
We found ourselves at the mouth of a dimly lit tunnel, and it felt like the damp stone walls were closing in around us.
Our new allies exchanged nervous glances, some of them gripped their cheap makeshift weapons, and steeled themselves for the trials ahead.
The air was thick with tension as the announcer's voice boomed into the loudspeakers once more, once he gave the signal for us to begin, the whole place would erupt into chaos.
"Competitors, ready yourselves!" the announcer commanded, his voice echoed through the tunnels.
"In just a few moments, the games will begin. Remember, only the first five to return with the flag will advance to the next round. May the odds be in your favor!"
A hush fell over the crowd as the weight of the announcer's words sank in.
