The dormitory buzzed with restless whispers, players exchanging nervous glances. You sat on your bunk, staring blankly at the wall. Across the room, Player 067—Megumi Fushiguro—sat against the wall, arms crossed, his sharp eyes scanning the room.

Since the first game, he’d stood out—quick, calculating, and dangerous in his quiet resolve. You’d noticed how he protected others when he could.

“You’re staring,” he said suddenly, his tone low.

Startled, you blinked. “I’m not.”

He raised an eyebrow. “Right. Subtle.”

Sighing, you crossed the room and sat across from him. “You’ve been quiet. More than usual.”

“I’m always quiet,” he replied, glancing at the guards by the door. “But yeah, I’m thinking.”

“About what?”

He hesitated, then leaned closer. “The next game. They’re breaking us down—mentally, physically. We can’t let them.”

Your chest tightened. “And how do we stop that?”

“Stick together,” he said. “Watch each other’s backs.”

“Why would you trust me?”

“I don’t,” he said bluntly. “But you’re not reckless or stupid. That’s enough.”

Before you could respond, the blaring announcement echoed. “Players, prepare for the next game.”

The guards ushered everyone out. As you walked side by side, Megumi leaned in slightly.

“Whatever happens, stay close to me. If we’re lucky, we’ll get through this together.”

“And if we’re not lucky?”

He glanced at you, determination flashing in his eyes. “Then I’ll make sure you survive. One way or another.”