[Ah, dear survivors, the last and final test is about to start. Brace yourselves where each of you shall be given a 'kill-count' worthy of your display against the Dead Walkers thus far.]
As soon as the announcement was made, a holographic window popped up in front of them, leaving everyone stunned and bewildered.
############################################
KILL-COUNT LEADERBOARD: -
1) Peter Camson, kill count - 337
2) Kalsie Crux, kill count - 333
3) John Wilson, kill count – 217
4) Wendy Luther, kill count - 211
5) Fred Frostine, kill count - 175
6) Sylvie Wilson, kill count - 151
7) Dean Shire, kill count - 132
8) Billy Simpson, kill count - 129
9) Noah Newton, kill count - 126
10) Jack Olive, kill count - 121
11) Job Smith, kill count - 111
12) Nicole Olive, kill count - 102
13) Bella Eagan, kill count - 100
14) Cary Joan, kill count - 61
15) Nick Jones, kill count - 60
.
.
.
136) xxx, kill count - 3
############################################
The window panel delivered a shocking revelation. While it was somewhat expected that Kalsie would have the highest kill-count, the fact that the top spot was occupied by someone else's name, especially someone they despised, sent shockwaves through the group.
"That scum is still alive?" Fred's face contorted in a scowl as he clutched his bow tightly, vividly recalling the nightmarish hell they had endured because of Peter.
But it wasn't just him. Fred's sentiments resonated with others upon discovering that Peter had managed to survive.
"Forget that person; he's the least of our worries right now. Let's focus on the task at hand, because whatever the next test entails, it won't be as straightforward as the previous one," Kalsie voiced his concern.
Surviving the night had already exacted a heavy toll, leaving everyone exhausted. Kalsie had become handicapped due to a single incident, and he was determined not to let anyone underestimate the challenges that lay ahead.
As Kalsie feared, the next test proved to be far more daunting than he had anticipated.
[Now, your final test will be a... Battle Royale! Your objective is to defeat or eliminate your adversaries, and your foes will be none other than the people around you!]
"What!?!" The test objective left many of them in shock, particularly those in Kalsie's group, as the prospect of fighting and harming each other was something they dreaded.
[This test will last for six hours, but only the top fifteen candidates from the leaderboard will pass and gain the privilege to join us! For those who do, unimaginable riches, unparalleled power, and all their heart's desires will be within reach!!!!]
"Damn it!! These people and their tests!" Kalsie clenched his right hand in frustration, fully grasping the intentions behind the test. It was a deliberate ploy to pit candidates against each other, sowing discord and betrayal.
His sentiment resonated with the others, as similar thoughts raced through their minds.
[Keep in mind that when one candidate kills another, their kill count will be added to the tally of the killer. However, if you merely incapacitate your opponent without killing them, you'll only receive half of their kill counts, but the unconscious candidate will still be eliminated from the test.]
[Therefore, accumulating kill counts will significantly impact your overall ranking. Moreover, all the powers acquired from hunting Dead Walkers will be transferred to the person who eliminates their opponent. But fret not, your hard work will be rewarded! There will be a grand prize for the candidate with the highest kill count. And that prize is... the Miraculous Holy Potion!!]
"!!!" At the mention of the reward, another window materialized beside the kill count ranking board.
#####################
Name – Miraculous Holy Potion
Description: – It is a mysterious and potent potion capable of curing any curses and incurable diseases. Its miraculous power can even regenerate lost limbs and revitalize the body by purging all forms of toxins.
#####################
'T-This!' Kalsie's eyes widened in astonishment.
"K-Kalsie, with this, you can regenerate your arm!" Nicole exclaimed in excitement after reading the potion's miraculous capabilities.
"Yeah, maybe it's possible," Kalsie replied with a bittersweet smile. The prospect of healing his hand was hopeful, yet it wouldn't be without its challenges.
"But it won't be a cakewalk," Wendy added, looking at Kalsie. "Currently, that scoundrel has the highest chance of claiming the reward. If it were earlier, it wouldn't have been an issue, but after you lost your arm..."
"She's right," Job chimed in. "That guy won't easily relinquish something as valuable as this. The mere thought of gaining strength by eliminating others won't deter him."
"I know," Kalsie said, gazing at them intently. "But it won't be a straightforward path for him either. We're a united front, watching each other's backs. Although he may have his group, when faced with such an opportunity, I doubt they can resist the allure of greed."
"What are you guys worried about!? With me around, no one will get close to you!!" Fred declared, pounding his chest with a fist.
"First, protect yourself, then worry about others!" Wendy chided him.
"For now, let's devise a solid plan because we're their target. It'll be us against 125 of them," Kalsie strategized.
Nick, who had been silently observing, looked at Job and spoke hesitantly, "J-Job..."
Turning toward Nick, Job understood his unspoken words as he glanced at the miraculous potion. He sighed and continued, "I know we also need this, but Kalsie needs it more than us."
Nick wanted to voice his thoughts, but when he looked at Kalsie, particularly at his missing arm, he remained silent, his head hung low.
"Don't worry," Job reassured him, placing a comforting hand on Nick's shoulder. "If there's one potion out there, there could be more! But first, let's survive this test together, and then we'll rescue your mom!"
Nick didn't say anything but nodded in agreement.
Just as they were beginning to formulate plans for their next challenge, the man overseeing the test bombarded them with unexpected news.
[Now, on my mark, the test will commence, and be aware that each of you will be randomly teleported into a maze. So, Candidates! Shall we see who among you all shall emerge as the true conquerors!?]
[Let the hunt begin!!]
[3]
"What-!?" The sudden announcement rattled them, catching them off guard as they hadn't anticipated being separated from each other, especially inside a labyrinth.
[2]
With the countdown ticking away, Kalsie swiftly glanced at everyone and urgently proclaimed,
[1]
"Everyone!! Avoid combat, prioritize reuniting with each other-"
[0]
Before he could complete his sentence, a blinding white light enveloped and engulfed them entirely.
"!?"