The arena lights dimmed. Red lights glowed on one side. Blue lights glowed on the other.
Team Rayne wore blue armor. Team Reed wore red.
The weapons weren't toys. The laser rifles in this arena were military-grade. Without the armor, a direct hit could burn through flesh, cause severe damage, even kill.
This wasn't a game for amateurs.
The countdown hit zero. Both teams moved.
Jennifer's team spread out instantly. Their formation was textbook perfect two flankers moving wide to control the edges, two mid-range riflers holding the center lanes, one sniper climbing to the elevated platform, one scout pushing forward to gather intel.
They moved like machines. No wasted steps. No hesitation. Every angle covered.
Paige's team moved more cautiously. The archery specialist took point, scanning for openings.
The strength competitor held the center, rifle raised but uncertain.
The intelligence expert stayed back, eyes darting, trying to read the enemy's pattern.
