Nightmare Game
Copyright© 2025 by CaffeinatedTales
Chapter 42
Ethan returned to the kitchen just as the sky began to darken.
A heavy stench still clung to him, so he headed straight back to his room for a quick shower.
Once the time felt right, he went downstairs for the evening meal.
The lineup matched yesterday’s exactly: Rosie and Mrs. Bennett at the head, with Ethan and Serena as the only guests.
As everyone prepared to eat, someone Ethan hadn’t expected showed up.
Lucas, absent the night before, strolled into the dining room, claimed a seat casually, and started on his food without a word.
Ethan observed him discreetly, along with Mrs. Bennett, who remained composed, showing no strong reaction.
Lucas, on the other hand, shot wary glances her way now and then.
The dinner passed without any issues.
Soon came the lot-drawing.
The three stepped up one by one and pulled their slips.
Ethan unfolded his to find [Clean your own guest room].
He exhaled in relief; not every remaining Order led to certain death.
Serena approached next, her slip reading [Tidy the dining room].
Learning Ethan’s was harmless too, she seemed to relax, a natural smile of ease spreading across her face.
Over on the side, Lucas frowned at his paper, pondered briefly, then headed upstairs alone.
“Ethan, keep an eye on Lucas. He gives me bad vibes, especially now.”
“Yeah, I’ve got it handled.”
Ethan nodded, parted from Serena, and returned to his room to start cleaning.
Once finished, the maid arrived for her routine inspection.
Satisfied, she left, and another day drew to a close.
That annoying knocking echoed through the night again, leaving him to wonder if the chef had released those Gloomeyes back out.
Before long, the sixth day arrived.
Lucas wore a grim look, as things had veered off his expected path.
He’d been an ordinary young guy, fresh out of college without a job, stuck at home.
One night, he fell asleep and woke up in this bizarre place. Terror gripped him at first, until a whisper reached his ears.
The voice explained his situation and granted him the Bear’s Blessing.
With this boon, he could tap into Berserk and Divine Strength, both with limits, but used wisely, survival here seemed feasible.
He scanned the others, noting no one else appeared clued in.
Excitement surged; he felt this marked his turning point, lifting him from mediocrity.
From stories he’d read, protagonists shared one trait: even in dire straits, they wielded unique powers beyond the ordinary.
Clearly, he fit that role now.
Buoyed by superiority, he avoided teaming up, holding edges in info and strength.
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