I didn't panic when my candle went out.

Honestly, I was getting used to it.

And lighting it again wasn't hard.

The practice I'd been getting since the game started had made it easier.

One scratch, and I had to let match.

The rat watched as I lit the candle with practice that was almost human.

When I finished, its nose twitched, it resumed scurrying down the hallway.

So I followed it without further ado, closing the door behind me as I did.

It was odd following that rat.

There seemed to be some kind of purpose to its movements like it was following the steps

of a plan.

Each step they took was done with confidence that I felt ashamed to envy.

The green sunlight from outside seemed to have taken on a darker tone like it was decaying.

When I passed by the window, I glanced outside.

The entire world was still grey.

Baron.

Lifeless.

There was a buzz on my phone and I pulled it out of my pocket.

It was from Josie.

Larry, where are you?

I've lost Benny.

You are right.

...