Hajime's eyes snapped open. Cold metal pressed against his back as harsh fluorescent lights flickered above. Around him, dozens of confused strangers stirred, their murmurs filling the sterile, empty room.
Before anyone could make sense of the situation, a massive TV on the far wall crackled to life. A man in a sleek black mask with a white X stared back at them.
"Welcome," the voice was calm, chilling. "You have been chosen for a survival game. This building has 10 floors, each with its own deadly challenge. Clear the game to move up. Fail... and you die."
The room froze. Armed, masked guards stepped forward, their weapons raised, cutting off any thoughts of rebellion.
"Win all 10 floors, and you'll walk away with fifty million dollars," X continued. "The choice is yours—survive or perish."
Hajime's heart pounded as his gaze darted to the others. A boxer with a hardened expression, a nurse trembling in fear, a soldier scanning the exits, and a quiet girl biting her lip.
The metal doors slammed shut. There was no way out.
"Let the games begin," X announced. The screen went dark.