As he spoke, a group that appeared to be mages had started rolling some kind of large device into the arena in front of them. It looked like a mirror frame without the mirror. This caused me to frown, feeling even more confused after his last words.

“Death? I never agreed to this!” One gladiator shouted.

“You can’t do this!” Someone from one of the manager boxes yelled out.

“Haha! What are you saying? Whether you die or not is entirely based on you. I’m not saying death is mandatory, just that death is a possibility.”

“Please, my liege, speak clearly! What is it that you want us to do?” An older bloke with a beard who seemed to be a more respectful gladiator cried out.

Lord Reign seemed to be relishing in people’s shock and confusion, but he finally put up a hand and willed the room to silence.

“Very well… for the finals, you will all be sent… to another world!”

My mouth dropped slightly, especially given his bold claim. How could I not be surprised by such a declaration? Other responses ranged from confusion to incredulity.

“It’s a dungeon!” He declared. “Although it’s unlike any dungeon you have ever seen. This dungeon doesn’t exist in levels, but locations. It’s an entire small world… a dark world. In the center of that world is a castle. You should consider just being allowed to go as your reward. After all, this place is filled with riches beyond our wildest dreams. It will be up to you to acquire said riches yourself. I should also add, that the reward I’ve promised is within that world. The first person to rescue the dwarf and take the treasure will naturally be the winner.

If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it's taken without permission from the author. Report it.

“We have to get the reward ourselves?” One of the gladiators growled darkly.

“Correct! There is a castle in the center of this dungeon. This castle is protected by a terrible dungeon boss. However, there is also a Portal in the treasure room that will return you to this world. It will remain open for three days. As long as you step through, you will live, and get to keep whatever rewards you found.”

“We were never told about any dungeons!” Bernard said unpleasantly.

“How could I call any of you a true champion just because you’re the best at fighting one on one? This is a time for you to truly put all of your skills to the test!” Lord Reign seemed surprisingly patient. “This way, every participant has a chance to bring home an award for their efforts.”

“And have a chance to die!” A youthful gladiator with moppy hair cried out.

“With great risk, comes great reward! If you do not like it, you may leave, and give up your chance.”

This caused even more displeasure upon the finalists.

“Look at it this way.” Carmine suddenly spoke up. “Bernard is undefeated. None of you have a chance of defeating him. Second place was always your best outcome, but now, there is a chance at first.”

Bernard jerked at those words, and I was a bit surprised she spoke as well. She wasn’t wrong though. Everyone was treating Bernard as if he had already won. Some people were already starting to call him the Gladiator Hero.

The other men seemed to realize this as well. One by one, their mopey expressions started to grow a bit determined. In a fight like this which was more like a race, every person had a chance at winning. Bernard’s greatest strength, being the best fighter, was no longer an advantage. Lord Reign’s expression turned pleased as the contestants were convinced of this.

“So, will any of you step out and not fight?” Lord Reign asked. “Put your hand down Deek!”

“Tsk… knew it.” I mumbled.