"Attention, participants," Mr. Gideon began, his voice ringing loud and clear. "As you've likely noticed, the competition is heating up. Allow me to add a little more... excitement."
The screen shifted to show a leaderboard with group numbers displayed. The rankings showed how many marbles each group possessed. Most groups had two marbles, but three were noticeably empty.
"The final marble you're all after," Mr. Gideon continued, "is the deciding factor. Once this marble is claimed, three groups will be eliminated immediately. That's right—there aren't enough marbles for everyone."
Gasps and murmurs broke out among the groups in the clearing. The reality hit them hard: failure to secure the last marble would mean elimination.
"You have less than four hours before sunset," Mr. Gideon said with a devilish grin. "Good luck, and may the best survive."
