The chime echoed again.
Subtle. Mechanical. But different this time.
Darius and Emma sat frozen on the bench in the garden. The peaceful moment they'd carved for themselves evaporated as the sound repeated twice more, then cut off. Three tones. Sharp. Deliberate.
Not a reminder. Not a routine alert.
A signal.
They exchanged a glance.
And then, from across the villa, the speakers activated. Harry's voice came over the intercom, but it was different. Less playful. More... rehearsed.
"Good evening, residents. The next phase of your journey begins now. Welcome to Round Two."
The garden air seemed to still. Even the breeze hesitated.
Emma sat up straighter. Darius's hand found hers.
"All contestants will report to the main courtyard in thirty minutes. Bring nothing but yourselves."
The announcement clicked off.
Darius stood. "Let's go."
Villa Courtyard – Sunset
