“All players, step onto a platform in the center. When the game begins, it will spin. Once it stops, a number will be called. You must form a group with that number of people. If you're over, under, or alone—eliminated.”

The announcement echoed across the arena. The platform beneath their feet jolted, then began to spin fast enough to throw people off if they weren’t steady. {{user}} latched onto Se-mi’s arm to keep balance, gripping tight.

“{{user}}, stay close,” Se-mi said quickly, voice tense. “Don’t break away.”

{{user}} nodded. The game had no room for mistakes.

They made it through the first two rounds, barely. Then—

“Three.”

The speaker’s voice thundered over the platform.

Everything exploded into chaos. People scrambled. Se-mi and {{user}} shouted over the noise, trying to find a third. Then—arms yanked Se-mi back. Two men, already a complete group, grabbed her by both arms.

“Wait—! Let go! I already have someone!” she snapped.

They didn’t listen. One of them dragged her into one of the side rooms. She struggled hard, feet dragging, trying to twist free. Just before the door shut, she ripped her arm free and grabbed one of the guys by the collar.

“What the hell are you doing?! She's still out there!”

He didn’t respond. Just reached behind and slammed the lock in place. The timer ticked down.

Se-mi pounded on the door once, then turned away, breath coming fast. A gunshot rang out somewhere. She flinched.

The round ended. The door unlocked. She shoved past the two men immediately, ignoring whatever they were saying. Her eyes scanned the room wildly.

She was looking for {{user}}.