Nightmare Game
Copyright© 2025 by CaffeinatedTales
Chapter 100
Ethan hesitated, then pressed on. “Besides me, have you invested in anyone else?”
The Fox burst into a playful giggle. “Is our Ethan getting jealous? How cute!”
Its bushy tail swished, betraying its delight.
It scooted closer, nuzzling Ethan’s neck, ignoring the Snake’s murderous glare, and settled comfortably against his chin, lazy and smug. “Relax, you’re our only pick. No one else could ever measure up.”
Ethan didn’t doubt it. Clara’s words aligned—no mention of these five creatures in her knowledge.
“From the moment we chose to train you, we were bound together,” the Ape said, its gaze deep, unreadable, as it took a swig from its gourd. “Don’t ask more. We picked you for a reason, but it’s a double-edged sword, putting you in the spotlight.”
“We went all in, betting every chip on you. That makes it near impossible for others to grant you a Blessing.”
The Wolf snorted, grinning coldly. “What’s wrong with that? We don’t need their power. Ours is plenty.”
“With what you’ve learned from us, plus our Blessings, surviving to the end’s a breeze. Nothing to sweat.”
“I’m betting Ethan’s got big things ahead, maybe even fulfilling our deepest hopes.”
The Fox nodded. “Exactly. Our Ethan’s on another level. Those half-baked picks of theirs can’t touch him.”
The Snake sighed, not disputing their optimism but urging caution. “Ethan, don’t take their hype too seriously.”
“Dreamplay’s a pit. You’re not just facing monsters in the shadows but the humans beside you.”
“Stay sharp. There’s always someone stronger, a bigger sky beyond. One slip, and you’re done for.”
The Fox bristled, glaring. “What’s that supposed to mean? You saying our Ethan’s not good enough?”
“Quit raining on his parade.”
The Snake glared back. “Don’t twist my words. I want Ethan safe more than anyone here.”
“Enough,” the Butterfly cut in, its voice soft but firm. “Time’s short, and we’ve got more to tell Ethan.”
“No need to stress, Ethan. Even if you fail, we won’t hold it against you. We made our choice long ago.”
Ethan nodded, saying nothing. Words felt unnecessary; their bond ran deeper than sentiment, forged in unspoken trust.
The Ape set down its gourd, locking eyes with Ethan. “Go all out, Ethan.”
“We’ve got your back. Anyone tries to break the rules, they’ll answer to our fists.”
Ethan’s eyes widened, a memory flashing: the black Spider dragging him into darkness at the Shrine, sealing his senses, only to be stopped. It had to be them.
“Got it,” he said, a smile breaking through.
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