Rynax found himself in a stark, all-white room, the brightness almost blinding. The walls, floor, and ceiling were a seamless expanse of white, creating an unsettling sense of emptiness. In the center of the room stood a simple white bed, unadorned and sterile, and a large mirror that reflected his image back at him. He approached the mirror, curiosity mingling with apprehension.
As he stood before it, he took in his features. He looked like a normal human, but there was something unsettling about the piercing blue of his eyes, a depth that hinted at the mechanical enhancements lurking beneath his skin. The reflection showed a face that was both familiar and foreign, a blend of humanity and technology. His skin was smooth, almost too perfect, and the slight sheen hinted at the advanced materials that made up his body.
Suddenly, details began to pop up on the mirror, glowing softly against the white backdrop:
Name: Rynax Voss
Age: 26
Talent: Efficient killing
Species: Human
"Efficient killing," he thought, a bitter sneer curling his lips. The words felt like a label, a cold reminder of what he had become. He could kill anyone if he really tried, but the thought left a sour taste in his mouth. The games ahead would be a test of survival, and he had been given an order to protect the planet. But what did that even mean for someone like him? With nothing left for him on Earth, he might as well enjoy whatever this new existence had to offer.
Just then, the white door swung open with a soft whoosh, and a voice echoed in the room, smooth and calm. "Please follow the arrows." The words shimmered in the air before vaporizing into golden ashes that swirled and formed an arrow, pointing toward the exit.
Rynax stood by the door, hesitating for a moment as he observed his surroundings. He glanced left and right, taking in the endless void of white that surrounded him. It felt surreal, as if he were trapped in a dream. The arrow floated gently, urging him to move forward. With a deep breath, he stepped through the doorway and into the unknown.
As he walked, the white hallway stretched out before him, an infinite corridor that seemed to go on forever. The walls were smooth and featureless, and the only sound was the soft echo of his footsteps against the floor. The arrow glided ahead, twisting and turning, leading him deeper into the void. Rynax felt a strange mix of anticipation and dread as he followed it, the emptiness around him amplifying his thoughts.
With each step, he felt the weight of his past pressing down on him. Memories of his life on Earth flickered through his mind—moments of laughter, friendships, and the mundane routines that now felt like a lifetime ago. But those memories were overshadowed by the darkness of his transformation, the cold efficiency of his new existence. He was no longer just Rynax; he was a weapon, a tool designed for a purpose he had not chosen.
At the end of the hallway, he spotted a portal-like gate, shimmering like white jelly, pulsating softly as if alive. The arrow floated through it, disappearing into the unknown. Rynax hesitated, a wave of uncertainty washing over him. What lay beyond that threshold? Was it freedom or another trap?
He stood there for a moment, weighing his options, the silence pressing in around him. After a minute of contemplation, he made his decision. With a deep breath, he stepped forward, crossing the threshold into the portal.
As he passed through, he was gone, leaving behind the white void.
As Rynax emerged from the portal, he was greeted by a vast coliseum that stretched out before him, a grand arena filled with a cacophony of sounds and sights. The air buzzed with energy, and he felt a mix of emotions swirling within him—fear, worry, excitement. He blinked, trying to process the scene unfolding around him.
In front of him stood hundreds of different humanoid species, each one more astonishing than the last. "Humans?" he thought, bewildered. Among the crowd, he recognized some familiar forms: werewolf with its sleek fur and sharp fangs, hulking ogre with its brutish strength, troll with a mossy skin, and stout dwarf with braided beards. There was even an elegant elf, her features delicate and ethereal, embodying the beauty he had only heard about in stories.
Rynax's gaze swept across the coliseum, taking in the diversity of beings. A girl floated nearby in a shimmering bubble, her fish tail glimmering in the light. She looked serene, yet there was something unsettling about her presence. A small pig-like creature stood on its hind legs, its beady eyes darting around with curiosity. And then there was the little girl, her smile wide and unnerving. She looked at Rynax with an intensity that sent a chill down his spine, as if she were sizing him up for a meal. What is wrong with her? he thought, quickly averting his gaze.
He shifted his focus to a towering figure at the edge of the crowd—a giant, at least fifteen feet tall, with a serious and authoritative aura that commanded respect. Rynax couldn't help but feel small in comparison. How would I live in this place? he pondered, anxiety creeping in. The sheer variety of characteristics and features around him was astonishing and beautiful, yet it also felt overwhelming.
Just as he was lost in thought, a portal-like jelly appeared in the air before them, shimmering and pulsating with energy. It opened, and from within stepped a stunning woman, draped in a robe as red as the coldest fire. Her eyes glowed like the sun, radiating warmth and power. Rynax felt the heat wash over him, a sensation that made him both uneasy and captivated.
"Humans," she began, her voice smooth and commanding, echoing throughout the coliseum. As she spoke, a wave of heat engulfed the arena, making Rynax's skin prickle. "- Bugs," she continued, a wicked smile spreading across her face, "you are all here to quench our boredom. We, the Beings, are excited to watch you play our beautiful games."
A hush fell over the crowd, the weight of her authority palpable. No one dared to speak, their eyes fixed on her, captivated by her presence. What the heck is this feeling? Rynax thought, a mix of awe and fear coursing through him. He could sense the tension in the air, the unspoken understanding that they were at the mercy of this powerful being.
"Ehehe," a voice piped up, breaking the silence. It was the little girl with the unsettling smile, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "This will be fun," she said, her gaze fixed on the woman in the air, as if she were a child anticipating a thrilling game.
The woman's smile widened, and she looked down at the girl with a glimmer of amusement. "Ah, little one, you have the spirit of a true player. But remember, the games we play are not for the faint of heart."
Rynax felt a shiver run down his spine as he listened to their exchange. The other beings around him murmured among themselves, their voices a mix of excitement and apprehension. A werewolf growled softly, his eyes narrowing. "What kind of games are we talking about?" he asked, his voice low and gravelly.
The woman turned her gaze to him, her expression unfazed. "Games of survival, of wit, and of strength. Only the strongest will prevail."
A troll stepped forward, his massive frame towering over the others. "And what if we refuse?" he bellowed, his voice booming through the coliseum. "What if we don't want to play your games?"
The woman's smile faded slightly, replaced by a look of cold amusement. "Refusal is not an option. You are here now, and the games will commence whether you like it or not. You will either play, or you will face the consequences, dying together with your planet."
Rynax felt a knot tighten in his stomach. He glanced around at the other beings, their expressions a mix of fear and determination. The elf, who had been silent until now, stepped forward, her voice calm yet firm. "We will not be pawns in your game. We deserve to know what we are up against."
Eh a boy?, Rynax's thoughts that the girl elf, is actually a boy.
The woman regarded him with a raised eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Ah, the elf speaks with wisdom. Very well, I will grant you a glimpse of what lies ahead." With a wave of her hand, the air shimmered, and images began to materialize before them—visions of treacherous landscapes, fierce battles, and challenges that would push them to their limits.
Rynax watched, his heart racing as he took in the scenes unfolding before him. This is real. This is happening. The weight of the situation settled heavily on his shoulders, and he felt a surge of determination.
The woman's voice cut through his thoughts.
As the blinding red light faded, Rynax found himself standing in a thick, dense forest. The air was cool and fresh, but only a small amount of daylight filtered through the towering trees, casting long shadows on the forest floor. He blinked, trying to adjust to his new surroundings, and quickly realized he was not alone.
Around him stood four other beings, each one strikingly different and captivating in their own right. Rynax felt a mix of awe and apprehension as he took in their appearances.
The first to step forward was Thalor Sylvannis, an elf who looked to be in his early twenties but was actually 200 years old. He was tall and slender, exuding an ethereal grace that was typical of his kind. His skin had a slight luminescence, and his movements were fluid and elegant, as if he were gliding rather than walking. High cheekbones framed his vibrant green eyes, which sparkled with a connection to nature. His long, silver hair flowed freely down his back, catching the light in a way that made him look almost regal.
"Greetings, fellow competitors!" Thalor said, his voice smooth and melodic. "I am Thalor Sylvannis, protector of the forests. It seems we are all in quite the predicament, but fear not! Together, we shall navigate these trials." He flashed a confident smile, his demeanor boastful yet kind-hearted. "I can assure you, my skills in nature magic will be of great use."
Rynax couldn't help but stare, momentarily taken aback by Thalor's beauty. He looks like a character from a storybook, Rynax thought, feeling a twinge of envy mixed with admiration. How can someone be so effortlessly graceful?
Next to Thalor stood Garrick Stonefist, a dwarf who was short and stout, with a muscular build that spoke of strength and resilience. His ruggedly handsome face was framed by a bushy beard, and his deep-set brown eyes conveyed warmth and determination. His thick mane of dark brown hair was tied back for practicality, and he wore sturdy leather armor that hinted at years of experience in battle.
"Name's Garrick," he said with a hearty laugh, his voice booming and jovial. "I'm a miner from the mountains of Durnak. If there's stone to be found or a tale to be told, I'm your dwarf!" He clapped Rynax on the shoulder, his grip firm and reassuring. "Don't worry, lad. We'll get through this together. Just stick close to me, and I'll keep you safe."
Rynax nodded, feeling a sense of camaraderie begin to form. Garrick's straightforward nature was refreshing, and he appreciated the dwarf's willingness to protect those around him.
Next was Lyra Moonshadow, a Fae who appeared to be 25 but was actually 250 years old. She was petite and graceful, her presence shimmering with a faint, otherworldly glow. Her delicate features were framed by a cascade of midnight blue hair, adorned with small, luminescent flowers that seemed to pulse with life. Her large, expressive violet eyes sparkled with mischief and curiosity.
"Hello, everyone!" Lyra chimed, her voice light and playful. "I'm Lyra Moonshadow, and I must say, this is going to be quite the adventure!" She twirled in place, her movements almost dance-like. "I can't wait to see what tricks we'll encounter! Just be careful not to step on any of my illusions; they can be quite… surprising!" She winked, her playful nature evident.
Rynax couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm. She seems like a breath of fresh air, he thought, appreciating her lightheartedness amidst the uncertainty.
Finally, there was Nerissa Tidecaller, a Merfolk who appeared to be 28 but was actually 180 years old. She was slender and elegant, her movements fluid and graceful, reminiscent of water flowing over rocks. Her skin had a slight iridescent sheen, and her striking sea-green eyes reflected the depths of the ocean. Long, wavy hair of deep aquamarine flowed around her, giving her an ethereal quality. She sat comfortably in a bubble, her fish tail shimmering in the dim light.
"Greetings, friends," Nerissa said, her voice calm and soothing. "I am Nerissa Tidecaller. I may not be able to walk on land, but I can guide us through the waters of this trial." She smiled warmly, her demeanor introspective yet inviting. "I sense that we will need to work together to overcome the challenges ahead."
Rynax felt a sense of relief wash over him as he listened to his new companions. Each of them brought unique strengths to the group, and he was grateful to have allies in this strange new world.
"Hey, everyone," Rynax said, his voice steady but tinged with a hint of uncertainty. He took a moment to gather his thoughts, feeling the weight of the situation pressing down on him. "I'm Rynax Voss. I know I might not look like much, but I'm here to help however I can."
He glanced around at his companions, taking in their unique features and abilities. "I may not have the skills of a warrior or the magic of an elf, but I've trained for combat, and I can think on my feet."
They heard a magnanimous voice echoing throughout the forest, its tone both playful and commanding. "Welcome to your first challenge! It's easy," the voice said cheekily. "You just need to kill the three goblins that are hiding in the forest."
"Goblins?" Lyra exclaimed, her eyes wide with excitement. "Aren't they those little green cutie patooties? I've heard they can be quite mischievous!"
"The challenge will end as soon as the three goblins die," the voice continued, then vanished, leaving an eerie silence in its wake.
Rynax furrowed his brow, glancing at his companions. "As far as I remember, goblins are the weakest species," he said, his voice steady but laced with concern. "This shouldn't be too difficult."
"I don't know what a goblin is," Nerissa admitted, her tone calm and thoughtful. "We only have sea creatures in our world. I've never encountered anything like this."
Garrick chimed in, his voice gruff but warm. "In my world, goblins are kind. They're generous and helpful, not the monsters everyone makes them out to be." He crossed his arms, a frown forming on his face. "This doesn't sit right with me."
"Hmmmm, so we have different perceptions of what a goblin is," Thalor mused, his vibrant green eyes glinting with curiosity. "Regardless, the first thing we need to do is find one." He straightened, his confidence shining through. "I can use my skills to track them down."
"In our world, goblins love to hide in caves," Rynax said, recalling the countless games he had played. "But there are only three goblins," he added, his voice trailing off as he considered the implications. "That doesn't seem like enough for a challenge."
"I think the real challenge here is finding them," Garrick stated, his brow furrowing. "The BEINGS don't want this to be easy. They want to see us struggle."
"Then let's find them first," Nerissa suggested, her calm demeanor a soothing presence. "If we can locate a river or any body of water, I can communicate with the sea creatures to help us find them."
"Good idea, Nerissa," Thalor agreed, nodding. "Water creatures might have seen the goblins. They could lead us right to them."
Rynax felt a flicker of hope at the thought of working together. "Let's move quickly, then. We don't know how much time we have before the challenge escalates."
As they began to search for a body of water, the atmosphere shifted. The forest, once vibrant and alive, now felt oppressive, the shadows deepening as they ventured deeper into the trees. Rynax's instincts kicked in, and he felt the familiar coldness settle in his chest. This is just a game, he reminded himself, but the weight of the situation pressed heavily on him.
"Stay alert," Rynax said, his voice low and serious. "We don't know what else might be lurking in these woods."
"Right you are, Rynax," Garrick replied, his tone gruff but reassuring. "We'll keep our eyes peeled. If there's danger, I'll be the first to charge in."
Lyra giggled, her playful nature shining through even in the tense atmosphere. "And I'll be right behind you, ready to create a distraction if things get hairy! Just imagine the goblins' faces when they see a giant ogre charging at them!"
"Let's hope it doesn't come to that," Rynax said, a hint of a smile breaking through his serious demeanor. "But if it does, I'll be ready."
As they continued their search, the forest seemed to close in around them, the trees whispering secrets in the wind. Rynax couldn't shake the feeling that something darker lurked just beyond their sight. What if these goblins aren't what we expect? he thought, unease creeping into his mind.
"Keep moving," Thalor urged, his confidence unwavering. "We'll find them. I can feel it."
But as they pressed on, the shadows deepened, and the air grew heavy with an unsettling tension. Rynax's instincts screamed at him to be cautious.