Chapter 260

"Boom!"

With a deafening explosion, blue smoke erupted at the center of the stage. As the haze dissipated, a massive holographic screen materialized, pulsing with an eerie azure glow.

The entire arena fell silent.

"Attention all competitors," the male host's voice echoed through surround sound speakers. "This year's tournament will utilize cutting-edge 6D holographic technology."

His fingers danced through the air, transforming the screen into a three-dimensional model of a bustling metropolis.

"'Doomsday City' is entirely quantum-computer generated," the host explained, his lips curling into a mysterious smile. "Your consciousness will be projected inside. Remember—every sensation will feel completely real."

Data flashed across the screen:

[Time Ratio: 1:1]

[Pain Simulation: 100%]

[Death Penalty: Immediate Elimination]

"Your mission—" The host snapped his fingers, revealing streets overrun by zombies. "Survive 30 days in this apocalyptic wasteland."

Gasps rippled through the audience.

"But that's just the basic requirement." The host's eyes gleamed with mischief. "The real challenge? Find the hidden 'Doomsday Key' somewhere in the city."

He paused dramatically, watching competitors shift nervously.

"Each team gets three clues." He waved a smart bracelet. "But be warned—some clues might be traps."

A muscular contestant stood abruptly. "What if we encounter other teams?"

"Excellent question!" The host clapped excitedly. "In the apocalypse, there are no rules. Cooperate if you want, or..." He drew a finger across his throat. "Eliminate them—permanently."

The crowd erupted in shock.

Lucy White narrowed her eyes. She noticed how the host emphasized "permanently."

"Final warning." The host's expression turned grave. "This system amplifies human emotions. Every decision you make... could trigger catastrophic consequences."

Most competitors laughed it off.

But Lucy's fingers absently traced her wrist. She knew the dangers too well—in hyper-realistic simulations, humanity's darkest instincts often surfaced.

"Now, proceed to your pods in order."

When her turn came, Lucy took a deep breath and stepped into the silver capsule. As the door sealed shut, an icy chill crept through her veins...

Her eyes snapped open to a college dorm room.

The smart bracelet vibrated:

[Countdown: 29:37]

[Primary Objective: Survive]

Lucy moved instantly. She tore bedsheets into a makeshift pack, stuffing it with energy bars and water bottles. Spotting a pen on the desk, she grabbed it—in this world, anything could be a weapon.

Knocking echoed at the door.

"Delivery for you!" a courier called.

Lucy froze. The detail was too precise... unnervingly real.

15 minutes remained.

She bolted toward campus stores, bypassing luxuries for essentials: a multi-tool, flashlight, first-aid kit...

As she stuffed in the last bandage, darkness swallowed the city.

"Groooaaar—"

Unearthly howls pierced the silence.

The world spun violently. When Lucy regained balance, four familiar faces surrounded her.

Doomsday... had officially begun.