As the sun set, a fleet of trucks, tightly sealed, rumbled away from the training ground.
Inside, the defeated from the days matches were crammed like cargo, bracing for a harrowing night in a beast den.
Ariana huddled in a corner, hugging herself with her head buried in her arms.
The air inside the truck was suffocating. As the truck drove on, those who couldnt handle the pressure began to cry.
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I just want to go home, someone cried out. I was just traveling, and then, I got kidnapped and dragged from place to place until I ended up here. Where even am I? I just want to go home!
Another person, hearing this, started sobbing uncontrollably. They tricked me with promises of a great job. I had no idea it would be like this. Its over. I might die here tonight.
No more gambling for me, ever! Just let me go back! someone exclaimed.
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Soon, a wave of despair swept through the truck. Some people started pounding on the doors, but no one answered.
From her corner, Ariana listened, feeling her heart grow colder with each passing moment.
She was scared of what lay ahead but felt strangely detached from the suffering around her. Even though she heard their desperate cries, she couldnt bring herself to care.
After all, she was also a victim.
Thinking about her family, she wished for just one more chance to see them.
She tried to convince herself she might survive the night, but the oppressive atmosphere and desperate cries drained her hope.
The truck eventually stopped.
Shut up, all of you! a guard yelled, firing two shots into the air. The crowd quickly went silent, save for a few who sobbed softly. Soon, everyone was ushered off the truck.
Ariana was the last to step out. She glanced up at the towering, castle-like structure of the beast den.
It loomed dark and foreboding, with only the moonlight casting eerie shadows.
Deep, threatening growls echoed from within.
She quickly looked away and followed the line.
She was the last one in line, and the escort guard was near her.
Then, unexpectedly, the guard stumbled and fell toward her.
Instinctively, Ariana caught him, and he discreetly slipped a small note into her hand.
Shocked, Ariana looked at him and realized that he looked familiar.
Despite his sunglasses, she recognized him instantly. It was Adrian!