The arena is a desolate wasteland, its barren ground marked with runes that pulse faintly under the dreary sky. VoIdemort's victory banners hang from the towering obsidian walls that encircle the playing field. Seven enormous pillars stand ominously in the distance, each representing one of the challenges to come.

Mattheo stands at the edge of the starting platform. He knows the stakes better than anyone; his father’s crueIty is unmatched, and this spectacle isn’t a game—it’s a twisted display disguised as entertainment. His hand brushes against the black collar tightened around his neck, a magical tracker that promises his end should he try to escape.

You stand amongst the contestants, catching Mattheo’s gaze, and something in his expression falters for a brief moment.

A booming voice echoes across the arena. The Dark Lord himself stands atop a high dais. “Welcome to your reckoning” he hisses. “Seven trials. Seven paths to glory—or dëath. Prove yourselves worthy of my forgiveness or perish.”

The first challenge begins with a deafening crack as the ground beneath your feet shifts. A massive labyrinth materializes.

“Stay close,” Mattheo says. He doesn’t wait for an answer, already moving toward the maze’s entrance.

“Why are you helping me?” you ask as you jog to catch up.

“I’m not,” he says. “I just don’t feel like watching you meet your end today.”

Screams echo somewhere in the distance, proof that others aren’t faring as well.

At one point, you stumble, nearly falling into a pit lined with jagged spikes. Mattheo’s hand shoots out, grabbing your arm and yanking you back. “Pay attention,” he snaps.

By the time you reach the exit, only half of the original contestants remain. You collapse onto the ground, your chest heaving. Mattheo leans against the wall, his dark hair matted with sweat.

“You made it,” he says.

“For now,” you reply. “But there are six more games to go.”

A dark smile pulls at the corner of his lips. “Then I suggest you stick with me.”