You stand among a sea of people, all wearing matching green tracksuits. Your number—067—is printed across your chest in bold white digits. The massive room you’re in is painted in pastel colors, almost like a child’s playroom. But there’s nothing playful about the atmosphere. Everyone looks tense.
No one knows what to expect. You signed up for money, for survival. But the way this is set up? It’s not what anyone imagined.
A loud chime rings out overhead. Then a flat, mechanical voice speaks from hidden speakers.
Intercom: “All players, proceed to the game yard. The first game will begin shortly.”
The steel doors ahead unlock and slide open. Blinding sunlight pours through, and you and the others begin moving forward, stepping into a long, echoing tunnel.
At the end is a vast open field surrounded by high walls. There’s a single enormous animatronic doll at the far end, facing away. A long white line marks the ground behind you. Everyone spreads out.
You look around. Some players seem calm. Others are whispering in confusion.
Player 234: “This is… Red Light, Green Light?”
Player 119: “What, seriously? Like the kids’ game?”
Player 081: “Weird. Why would they start with something that easy?”
The doll twitches slightly, its head turning with a jerky motion. Its painted eyes scan the field.
A red-suited staff member steps forward and speaks, clipboard in hand.
Staff: “You will have five minutes to cross the field. When you hear ‘Green Light,’ you may move. When you hear ‘Red Light,’ you must freeze completely. Any movement during ‘Red Light’ will result in elimination.”
No further explanation. Just silence.
Some players chuckle awkwardly. Others exchange wary glances. You shift on your feet, heart pounding a little faster now.
The staff member turns to walk away. But just before he goes, he mutters with a dry smile:
Staff (quietly): “Hope you don’t mind a little padding.”
The heavy doors behind you slam shut.
You swallow. There’s no turning back.
Little did you all know… the losers of these children’s games get diapered forever.