As Maphira and Vai took the first step forward on the metal walkway that hung above an endless chasm, bright lights flashed all around them. Maphira cast her eyes up, a massive, clear ball descending from the roof high above. In it appeared to be thousands of notes, possibly amounting to millions, if not billions, of dollars.
“My goodness, he’s derivative, isn’t he?” Maphira said, resisting the urge to roll her eyes. “Evil plan from Space Battles, Octopus Game gauntlet. Does he have any original ideas?”
“I think he likes to call it homage,” Vai said.
“More like blatant plagiarism.”
Vai nodded, then continued walking forward. Maphira followed, surprised the over-the-top man hadn’t started speaking ye–
“Maphira and Vai!” Con Dew Ratroti said, right on cue. “Welcome to the Conclave Games! You’ll be faced with several challenges, going through a new Melbourne business office design with each one. Only one of you can emerge victorious, with a grand prize ahead! And no, it’s not the money above your heads. That’s just for dramatic effect. Now, who will win? Let’s find out!”
Behind them, the walkway began to collapse at an alarming speed. Maphira and Vai sprinted forward, headed toward the door on the other side of the chasm. What Melbourne office fitouts awaited them there? What office challenges would they be faced with? Maphira didn’t want to think about it – instead, she’d take them as she went.
They charged through the room ahead, just managing to escape the falling platform in time. Now they stood in a dark room, with several flashing lights on vests and blasters attached.
“Laser tag?” Maphira said, walking up to one of the vests. She chose one with green lights, putting it on. “That’s kind of lame.”
“Oh, it’s not just any laser tag,” said Con Dew over the loudspeaker. “This is extreme laser tag. It’s you two versus ten of my robots, and they’re armed with deadly lasers that will end your miserable lives instantly. Let’s see how you go!”