Shit!
I only have this little life points left! Esis screamed inwardly, on the verge of breaking down. Life points are essential.
Very much so.
This was the sole criterion for admission into the game, granting access to food, water, and resources.
Hence, no access to the game means death!
Esis only has a nagging grandmother and a bedridden father. Although they can enter the game, their decaying minds will surely drag them down.
Unfortunately, even though Esis is able-bodied and young, the world doesn't function as it once did.
As machines and technology advanced, human intervention became unnecessary, leading to overpopulation and scarce resources.
And the grey dawn of the new world began.
Without work, one cannot earn money. Without adequate resources, one will die from starvation. No amount of hard work and frugality is sufficient.
Only the fortunate ones can indulge themselves.
This narrative has been purloined without the author's approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.
While the rich are squandering, the poor is lamenting.
Even eating a road grass is a luxury. Yet the poor can never curse those on the top.
Because only the rich have the rope of the poor's survival.
Hoy!
Esis woke up from his daze and rushed downstairs. The creaking sound alerted the person that Esis was finally approaching.
The elderly lady hobbled along, her cane striking the pavement with a rhythmic thud. Despite her frail appearance, there was a determined glint in her eye and a fierce determination in her steps.
Grandma's voice boomed across the room, causing Esis to jump in surprise. "Bastard, why are you late?!" she shouted, her face turning red with anger. Her words were followed by a violent fit of coughing, leaving Esis feeling both guilty and concerned for her health.
Esis went behind her to pat her back.
With her eyes turning red, the old woman growled at her grandson, "I'm dying! When will you give me something to eat?"
Soon. Soon. This was the only word Esis could say.
You lost again, didn't you? You are so stupid! Just like your father! I should have strangled you both when I still have strength!
As Esis closed his eyes, his fists clenched in anger. He couldn't believe he was on another losing streak. The frustration was eating him alive, and he felt like giving up.
He's unsure if he can still play the game - his mental health is suffering. Going again might really cause a breakdown if he loses.
Looking at the run-down building, the partially filled water jar, and the decaying potatoes, his stomach clenches.
Deep down, he knew he had to keep pushing forward.
I'm going back. Esis turned around and walked back with a determined gaze.
Go! Go! Give me something to eat if you still want to see me! She flailed before collapsing to the ground in exhaustion. Apparent inside her eyes was the scorn and frustration while looking at the fading silhouette.
...