"For the next two months," the voice boomed again, "you will be competing with each other."
Everyone stiffened.
"And of course," the voice added with a mischievous tone, "the first challenge starts now."
"What the heck?" Misha muttered under her breath.
Another sound resonated. They thought the surprises were over, but the walls behind them shimmered before pulling back like sliding panels.
The cast turned their heads, eyes widening. Behind them was a spacious lounge, minimalistic and glowing with white ambient light. The centerpiece was a massive curved television screen mounted on a black wall. Velvet-lined chairs were scattered around the room, and snacks were neatly arranged on a long table.
"This," the voice explained, "is your waiting room. For most challenges, you will gather here, watch the others' performances, and receive feedback."
"So we were in a box this whole time," Zeno whispered.
"It's like we're part of a simulation," Suho muttered, standing beside Zeno.
