NIGHTMARE : Lie Lies In Eyes

4. Saga

"Is this a team game or an individual one?", asked Denevier.

Ashley explained, "We never know. Sometimes they blend all realms like this, and in others, each realm competes against the rest."

The long-bearded man stood tall, making no declaration of rules or directions for the game, merely signaling the commencement with a resounding beat of the drum.
A jigsaw puzzle lay before me, and the room buzzed with activity as everyone fervently tackled their challenges. I focused on deciphering the intricate maze laid out in front of me, realizing its complexity exceeded my initial assumptions. The puzzle pieces refused to align smoothly.
In contrast, Ashley effortlessly completed her task within mere seconds, leaving both Denevier and me grappling with the remnants. The Edens around us swiftly conquered their respective puzzles, leaving me with a sigh of frustration echoing in the air.
Ashley generously offered her assistance, and I eagerly accepted before Denevier could reach her. With her guidance, we navigated the puzzle, and together, we successfully completed the challenge. To our surprise, we were the first to press the red button, signaling our victory in the game. However, no official announcement acknowledged our success as the game came to an abrupt end.

Ashley, brimming with excitement, exclaimed, "I'm over the moon. We won. I'm sorry, Morgan. You didn't win this time."

Morgan, maintaining her usual indifference, responded, "Don't exaggerate. It's just a nerd game. Win or lose, it doesn't matter to me."

"But they didn't announce our names. I'm disappointed." I expressed my disappointment as after a long time I received the spotlight yet none considered my effort.

Trying to comfort me, Ashley stated, "We'll be rewarded with merit points individually. Don't worry."

"So it wasn't a team game." Denevier concluded.

Ashley shrugged and responded, "Who knows. Here, they never clarify if it's a group game or a solo challenge. We just play and assume our position on our own."

I pondered while gazing at the hall, "But how? They just simply conduct it and then leave like nothing happened."

Ashley replied, "The highest merit points are always for the winners. But sometimes, you won't expect someone to be the highest. It's really confusing."

"This school is very mysterious and typically ethical. The categorization, regulations, and disciplinary actions - I just don't get it. When I thought, now I know it better; the next second, it proves me wrong." Denevier expressed his bewilderment, putting his hands into his pocket.

Ashley offered insight, "You're new here. It will be difficult to understand. Okay. Let's go to The Hall of Saga. Emma, you should join us too. It will be helpful for you too."

Ashley's phone beeped, prompting her to answer,
"Yes, Isla.... Really....Okay. I'll check it."

I inquired, "What's the matter?"

"Check your phones. Results are out." Ashley informed us.

She scrolled through her phone and exclaimed, "Whoa. I came second, for the first time, I ranked this higher. Emma, you secured third position. Great. Morgan, you're sixth. You're always great. Omg. We all are within the top ten."

Denevier added, "Yeah. I'm tenth. Not bad."

"Morgan, you're so good." I thought she's average just like me.

Ashley chimed in, "She's not just good but outstanding. She has never been below tenth. Hey Morgan, your teammates are under a hundred."

I expressed my disbelief, "Unbelievable."