Their camp was modest, consisting of a few hammocks suspended between the sparse trees. I was paranoid being on the ground, but at least it was fairly well hidden.

The spot was directly by the lake, nestled within a small depression. The surrounding bushes grew thick and lush, forming a protective barrier that shielded the small camp from prying eyes approaching from the land. The foliage was so dense that it nearly obscured the camp completely, blending it seamlessly with the natural surroundings.

However, that didn't extend to the lakeside. It was a vulnerable point in the camp's defenses, exposed to anyone who might approach from the lake. The other side was far away, but our fire could likely still be spotted. I didn't like it. It made me feel vulnerable, but I had to power through.

What if somebody decides to come over?

I shook my head. They'd told me they'd been here for a few days already, so I figured the odds of an attack while I visited were low.

We had settled down around a small campfire. Despite my paranoia, the soothing sounds of crackling wood and lapping waves created a comforting ambiance.

I watched Jonas expertly skin some sort of critter. I didn't recognize it, but it looked a bit like an oversized rat.

"You seem quite experienced at this," I remarked, curiosity piqued.

Jonas glanced up, his hands momentarily stopping their work. "Done this before?", I asked.

"Before coming here? Nah. I watched my grandfather do it, back in the day." He let out a small sigh. "Always found it disgusting. But you know times change"

I just nodded. "You need any help with it?"

"Not with the skinning. But Micheal said he got some salt with his points. I could use someone who seasons whatever this is." He held up the critter.

I gave him a thumbs up, and went to get the salt. While he continued, we talked a little more.

"No idea what it is. But we caught it stealing some of our crackers. And I figured we could use some meat for once."

I laughed. "I bet. Haven't eaten anything except those crackers since I got here."

He finished skinning the creature, and I got to season it.

When I was really young, and my family could still afford the house, we often made barbecue in the backyard. It was a distant memory now, faded by the shit that happened afterwards. However, the knowledge of seasoning meat had remained ingrained within me.

As we worked side by side, I tapped into the nostalgic recollections of those days, recalling what dad always used to do. The key was to be generous with the salt, allowing it to enhance the natural taste of the meat and create a balance of flavors. Usually I would also add some other ingredients like freshly ground pepper, but I had to work with what we had.

Not long after, we all sat around the fire, with the meat slowly being roasted over the fire. The scent, after days of barely having eaten, wafted like a heavenly offering, and made my stomach growl. As we savored the moment, engaging in lighthearted banter that served as a temporary respite from the harsh reality of our circumstances, a gentle silence settled over the campfire.

Finally I decided to ask the questions I came here for.

"So why are we here? What is this? And who put us there?"

That got their attention. For a moment it was quiet, almost if they were scared speaking of it.

But finally Michael decided to breach the silence, resignation clear in his voice. "We don't know. As far as I'm concerned nobody does, except the organizers."

"The council?" I asked.

"Yes that's what they call themselves. But that's all I ever heard about them."

He lowered his voice. "You know I don't think they're human. No human would ever be powerful enough to abduct so many people, and throw them into a death game. Personally, I think its some sort of super advanced alien civilization using us for entertainment. That would also explain why there are other species in the game, you know.", he paused meaningfully. "I assume you've seen them before?"

I nodded darkly. "First day I got here I saw three of them. They were hunting two people. Literally ripped them to shreds. I had nightmares for days after, I tell you."

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In their expressions, I saw no surprise. Michael cleared his throat, breaking the tension.

"That sounds about right. We are here, my friend, caught in a twisted trial orchestrated by unknown forces," he began again, his gaze drifting into the dancing flames. "This place, this twisted arena, serves as a proving ground. It's a cruel game where we are left to fend for ourselves, fighting not only the treacherous environment but also each other."

Bianca's eyes shimmered darkly as she started speaking, "A similar thing almost happened to me. First day I got here, I was still just confused. Didn't really believe in what the statue said.", she let out a self-deprecating laugh.

"I got jumped by two of them."

"Only survived because Veronica heard me screaming. They came to help me, and I guess the aliens were't prepared for that many people, so they ran."

A complicated expression was on her face. "That's how I joined the group."

I felt sorry for her, but another question was burning on my lips.

"But why? Why are they hunting us?"

She shrugged. "No idea. The equipment maybe. Or who knows, maybe they just want to get rid of some of their competitors."

The group fell silent once more. I couldn't help but think that something about that explaination was off. Or at least, not complete. Yet I didn't have much time to think about it as the conversation moved on, turning somewhat less depressing.

Apparently, both Michael and Veronica had unlocked their magic as well. They said it had something to do with radiance, but were reluctant with details. I didn't blame them. I wasn't really part of their group and I wouldn't want anyone to know about the details of my ability either.

Eventually the conversation, moved on from that too and I had one last question.

"What do you guys know about the points?"

Michael leaned forward, his expression thoughtful.

"The points," he began, "have been a part of this game even before the event started. They're a form of currency, earned by killing the monsters that roam this forsaken place. It's almost as if the more sinister the creature, the more points you can get."

"But here's the catch," he continued, his voice lowered. "These creatures tend to emerge during the cover of night. They thrive in the shadows, making it a treacherous time to venture out. So, if you choose to shelter yourself away during the dark hours, you may never even come across these monsters, and the chance to earn points slips through your fingers."

I nodded, absorbing the information. "So you managed to kill some of them even before the event? Did you stumble upon these creatures?"

Michael smiled bitterly. "It wasn't by chance, my friend. We learned early on that this world held secrets, and some of us delved into it. Me, Jonas and Veronica went out at night and discovered that the points existed, albeit in scarce quantities. It was a risk, but one that paid off."

That certainly explained a lot. I filed the information away, for later. I really didn't love the idea of going out at night, hunting for monsters. But those points were damn useful. Without that antidote, I would have been a goner. Also the food, I could buy for points was important.

Moreover, my abilities, my race, seemed to possess a mysterious affinity for the darkness. As soon as the sun's light waned, I would get a power boost. Combining that with my uncanny night vision, and my cloaking ability, the night was basically made for me. It was certainly worth considering.

In the meantime, the meat finished roasting. Taking his time, Jonas skillfully carved the meat into generous portions. The sound of the knife cutting through the tender flesh resonated with us, echoing the satisfying anticipation that filled the air. He put the meat on giant leaves, reminding me of various indigenous tribes.

"There ya go", Jonas gave me my leaf.

As I eagerly took my first bite, the flavors exploded on my tongue, a delightful blend of salty goodness. The meat, though slightly gamey, was full of the forests flavors. It didn't really taste like anything I recognized. The closest was probably rabbit.

Accompanying our carnivorous feast, we had a few crackers, their crisp texture providing a contrasting element to the meat.

We were all famished, and it showed as we dug into our meal.

While we were eating, the sun sank lower on the horizon, casting long shadows across the landscape. The fading light signaled the approaching nightfall.

With a touch of reluctance, we made the collective decision to extinguish the crackling fire that had been our faithful companion throughout the evening. The flames succumbed to the darkness, their vibrant glow dimming until only smoldering embers remained, releasing faint tendrils of smoke into the cool evening air.

I decided it was time for me to go.

"Glad to to have met you guys, but I probably should leave." I glanced meaningfully at the setting sun.

Michael nodded his assent. "A shame I couldn't convince you to stay with us. But I get it. Trust has to be earned."

"Regardless, it was good exchanging some information. Especially about those powers. We occasionally practice them while sparring. If you wanted you could join us sometime?", he looked at me questioningly.

"Sure, that sounds good to me.", I paused. I wanted to express my gratitude, but I didn't really have much to give them.

"I really appreciate the food guys. I hope I can make it up to you sometime."

Micheal smirked. "Don't worry about it. Just remember, who helped you out"

They had been nice, but I was under no illusions. They hadn't done it for free. In a way, his open admission made me feel better about it.

"Oh I will" I said with a smile.

We said our goodbyes, and I walked away, from their camp towards my treehouse. Looking around, I made sure nobody was following me. It was getting darker, but the shadows were no match for my nightvision. Thankfully the forest was quiet.

I climbed up the tree with practiced ease and entered my shelter.

It was still a pretty big mess from the fight. Broken branches and scattered debris littered the area, a testament to the fierce encounter that had taken place. Despite its disheveled state, the structure had remained solid. I just had to repair some of the roof and some of the camouflage. Additionally, I put fresh leaves inside for a bit more comfort.

Climbing into the makeshift sanctuary, I settled into the familiar surroundings. The lingering scent of wood and earth mingled in the air, while the rough textures of leaves and bark greeted my touch.

I was tired, but my mind still raced after the day. Today had answered some questions, but it raised even more. At least I had gained some allies.