Machi and Jenny walked side by side, their footsteps echoing in the corridor as they made their way towards the designated Play Room. Charlotte stayed close, her presence offering a sense of solace amidst the mounting tension. As the contestants entered the room, Jenny's gaze inadvertently fell upon Gordon, her brother, but she quickly averted her eyes, the weight of their complicated relationship lingering in her heart.

The announcer's voice boomed through the room, commanding the attention of every contestant. He directed them to proceed to the Play Room, where further instructions awaited them. Machi, Jenny, and Charlotte found themselves amidst a sea of competitors, their anticipation palpable as they gathered together.

Within the confines of the Play Room, the atmosphere crackled with both excitement and trepidation. All eyes were fixated on the screen before them as the announcer unveiled the details of the first trial—capture the flag. A list of three teams and their members' names appeared on the display, inciting a mixture of hope and anxiety among the participants.

The announcer elucidated the rules, his voice carrying a mischievous undertone. The revelation that followed left the room in stunned silence. Contrary to expectations, this was not the conventional capture the flag they were familiar with. The game had a unique twist that would test their individual prowess.

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Each contestant would be given a bracelet bearing their team's color. The bracelet would keep track of the number of opponents they touched. Once a contestant reached ten touches, a random flag would appear on the field, which their team could then seize. The one who successfully retrieved the flag had to carry it back to their team's base to secure the victory.

However, the announcer's next statement sent shockwaves through the room. Only the person who brought the flag back to their base would be considered the winner. This revelation shattered the spirits of many, as they realized that their teamwork and camaraderie would be tested in the harshest of ways.

Machi and Jenny simultaneously let out a disappointed yell as they saw the teams displayed on the screen. Jenny found herself assigned to Team Crimson, while Machi was placed in Team Diamond. The realization struck them like a bolt of lightning, their aspirations for victory threatened by the division between them. Yet, despite the twist of fate, they vowed silently that at least one of them would emerge triumphant.

As the weight of the situation settled upon the contestants, the announcer added another grim consequence. All those who failed in this game would be subjected to the Zero serum, a potent substance designed to subdue their powers. The stakes had never been higher, and the resolve of the participants was put to the ultimate test.