He crushed her head like it was butter. We're not in the same league and even if it's a dream I don't want to try to face him.

Kayle looked around. Suddenly, he saw him. The person he had always envied and who had remained the light of his life. Long, perfect blond hair, a perfect face and blue eyes that seemed to hold the sea, Charles Venkclerk was there.

-Charles?

-How are you, Kayle?

-No better than you.

-It's true that, given the situation, I shouldn't have asked the question.

The bastard's still handsome even in this situation, and when do I get my moment of glory? That said... it won't change the situation.

-All right, then. It seems I've finally calmed your ardor. Now I can explain what you're doing here.

I hadn't noticed it before, but...is it possible to have eyes that black? Either this guy's got some serious disease or...

-I think I'll start by introducing myself.

He's from another world, which might help us understand why he's so strong and fast. But that's not possible, is it? Another world?

-I'm Trane Rakis and...

Why is he stopping? Doesn't he want to tell us the rest?

-I've changed my mind. You'll have to find out who I am on your journey.

What the hell?

-Shall I explain why you're here?

This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

I mean, come on. I wish I knew.

-Why...

Why am I here?

-Actually, I don't really want to.

-What's that?

-I'll tell you this: you're all going to be sent to a world of energy, chakra, magic, call it what you will. Your goal is simple: to become the best antagonist to oppose the hero. No holds barred. Even kill the other candidates. Do you have any questions?

Questions? Become an antagonist. What's he on about? I'll have to be a villain.

-I've got one.

-I was expecting you to ask Charles Venkclerk a question. I expect a lot from you, by the way.

Charles. As always, he attracts attention. By the way, I have a question too.

-Who's the protagonist?

-Good question. It's about...

Why is that bastard stopping again?

-No. In the end, you'll have to find him yourself.

-I can see that.

I'm definitely going to kill him. However, it's best not to do that. He's undoubtedly a very powerful being, and even if he were just a little bit powerful, he'd cut my head off. But I don't feel like opposing the protagonist. He's the kind of person I want to protect in general. When I read a book, the hero's suffering and difficulties are conveyed through the harsh words of the text, and that's what makes us love him. I don't think I'm cut out for that. What's more, if it's a fantasy novel, I might have to kill people to achieve my goal. It's just not for me, so I'd rather not do it.

-What if you don't want to take part?

Trane looks puzzled by my question. As if it didn't make sense. I find it rather logical not to want to risk your life to be a bad guy. However, as he rest a finger on his chin to think, he replies:

-So you thought you had a choice.

The pressure became palpable in the room as if an elephant were crushing each of the candidates. Kayle felt death coming from Trane Rakis. He could now see the black reaper behind his back. He let them all know they had no choice.

-I see, Kayle Landers. It's time for you to go.

The four participants looked at each other to see who could potentially become their ally or enemy. A ship of red light descended on them and their bodies began to float inside.

What's going on now? So this was all for real. I'll have to become an antagonist. I'm not ready for that. Huh...Am I dreaming? That girl...she's smiling? I see, she's a psychopath. I'd better not come across her again. I should be able to establish an alliance with Charles and...

-Kayle Landers. To answer your question, you must become the best antagonist. If you fail, you will die in such a way that death is no longer eternal rest at all.

His black eyes pierce the soul, plunging the beholder into a bottomless abyss. At the time, no one had any idea who Trane Rakis was or what we were about to experience in this world.