I didn’t want to scare her with my paranoia so I didn’t tell her about the students I saw with guns outside the building. Although I could tell she didn’t quite understand the severity of the situation like I did I could see that she trusted me. After explaining to her that I think we should find a way to escape, she went to warn her friends but I stopped her. I knew it was selfish but it's already bad. I have to protect myself, I have Azlyn to think about too and it's too risky to cause chaos by warning everyone. If I take more people with us then we would become more noticeable as a large group sneaking around and if everyone starts to panic who knows what will happen to us? 

I was finally able to convince her to lay low, she was bitter about it but this place isn't real so it's fine if a few people die so we can survive. Whatever was going to happen was meant to happen anyway it has nothing to do with me so I shouldn’t feel guilty. Why am I trying so hard to live anyway? As we were looking around the gym for a way out other than the garage doors I could start to see dread, spreading like a steady stream, picking up momentum as the rain fell harder on a stormy night in my sister's eyes when we both realized we were trapped. 

Without warning, 2 platoons of purple uniformed students marched in, closing off the only exit of the room. The front-facing squadrons had no weapons in hand and you almost couldn't tell the others did either. Their movements were swift and synchronized; it was like watching a well-polished performance. Everyone was intimidated at first but their attention was quickly relocated by the sudden shifting of the walls opposite of the small army of seniors. 2 tall narrow doors opened up, 8 feet apart from each other, and we were no longer confined by the walls of the gymnasium. 

Through the narrow doorways, ominous staircases climbed up into an unknown abyss, disappearing into the impenetrable darkness beyond.  No one dared to step past the door frame. 

The staircase was black and metallic, you could barely see the steps thanks to how dimly lit the corridor was. It was odd that someone would construct such a thin and steep stairwell it almost looked like glass but it appeared sturdy.  Everyone else quickly lost interest in the eerie openings and turned their attention back around to the uniform body of students you entered the gymnasium just moments ago. Some even started greeting our seniors and tried to start small talk. Much to my surprise their efforts were returned with lukewarm smiles and half-hearted responses. This was my chance!

I made eye contact with Azlyn and we snuck through the remaining clusters of bubbly students to the gloomy stairwell. I rather risk my life battling the unknown to find a way out of here than take my chances unarmed against rifles and lunatics. As we made our way up the flight of steps the PA system went off. We paused to listen to the unknown speaker. 

"Welcome, new students! I'm thrilled to see so many energetic and bright faces joining our community. As your dean, I want to emphasize that your time here is an opportunity for growth, exploration, and achievement. We have high expectations for each and every one of you but remember, make the most of your experience, engage in your studies, embrace new friendships, and seize the countless opportunities that await you. Together, let's make this journey unforgettable." As she finished that last sentence the room roared with cheers everyone was full of enthusiasm and anticipation, drowning out the speakers. “This institution demands excellence, and those who falter will find themselves left behind. Work diligently, and perhaps you'll find yourself among the fortunate few who survive until graduation..." 

What the fuck is going on through these kids heads right now? Everything that lady says sounds absolutely terrifying SO WHY AREN’T THEY PANICKING!? I wanted to continue up the stairs but curiosity won over my anxiety and we decided to eavesdrop for longer. 

"...I eagerly anticipate witnessing the emergence of excellence among our student body. Those who demonstrate unwavering dedication, intellect, and resilience will undoubtedly capture our attention. The journey ahead will separate the best from the rest, and I am eager to see who rises to the occasion and distinguishes themselves as the finest among you. Good luck on your exams my dear children!" As the announcement ended we could hear the cheering fading into silence.