Horror Game Developer: My games aren't that scary! Chapter 565: Sacrifice [3]

The castle rose menacingly in front of us.

It presented a spectacle that stole the breath from many among us, its sheer existence evoking a sense of forever.

At the very least, that’s the way it struck me.

"I knew it."

Leon grinned, his eyes fixed on the formidable castle looming afar.

"My hunch was spot on. Unless I’m mistaken, heading into that structure is our path to escaping here. I’m convinced the way out lies within."

"What? How could the exit be in there?"

Drake questioned, his gaze shifting back and forth between Leon and the castle.

Leon only shot a quick look at Drake before grinning once more.

"Offer up a sacrifice, and you’ll receive it."

Drake’s features twisted, yet he held his tongue.

The longer I observed him, the greater my sense of letdown grew. The gap between him and Leon was enormous. Though Leon might be mad, he wasn’t a fool like Drake. He possessed sharp intellect and formidable strength.

"What’s our next move, Squad Leader? If the way out is inside, do we need to sneak in?"

"No, that won’t be necessary."

Leon let out a chuckle as he indicated the entrance.

"...We simply stroll right through."

"Huh?"

"But that’s..."

"If you doubt me, make a sacrifice. An eye. An arm. Something valuable. Then it’ll all make sense."

He started walking forward.

No one could quite grasp his statement. Still, his team trailed after him without a second thought. They appeared puzzled, mostly by the circumstances. Doubt didn’t flicker in their eyes as they kept pace with Leon.

It seemed like in their thoughts, he couldn’t possibly be mistaken.

'Well, I don’t think he’s deceiving us either.'

I went after them.

Our approach to the castle faced no barriers. The route stretched clear, without any oddities visible. Actually, right from the beginning of our trek through the woods, abnormalities had been scarce, popping up only now and then.

The trail remained tidy, bushes and plants neatly groomed.

All signs directed toward the gate.

The wide-open gate appeared to invite us in.

Leon passed through it first, his step unbroken.

The others came behind.

I alone halted briefly, glancing at the castle’s exterior and the interior that radiated a surprising warmth, so different from the chill outdoors.

Externally, the site seemed utterly abandoned. Yet peering past the gate, an unease gnawed at me that something wasn’t right. And given the pristine condition of the castle’s outer walls, I trusted my instinct was accurate.

Nevertheless...

'...Lingering out here serves no purpose. I sense the exit is indoors too. I’m merely wondering if locating it will prove difficult.'

I stepped beyond the gate.

Instantly, my surroundings transformed entirely.

The overcast sky vanished, giving way to a vivid blue expanse while lush grass and dense foliage extended everywhere. The barren earth and wilted trees disappeared, supplanted by soothing sunlight and the soft whisper of leaves.

Amidst bursts of laughter and lively talk filling the air, I suddenly stood in a vast courtyard. Elegant tables draped in pristine white linens stood arranged perfectly over the area, spanning the open expanse.

Dishes, gleaming silver platters, and slender glasses adorned the tables, brimming with tempting delicacies that released an alluring, savory scent.

'What kind of place is this...?'

Upon crossing into the castle, I had anticipated various scenarios, but this was the furthest from my mind. I scanned the surroundings, absorbing it all before shifting my attention to the group, who mirrored my bewilderment.

"What is this place?"

"...Are we outside again? What’s happening?"

Their bewilderment was plain to see.

I moved to join them, my eyes locking onto Leon as he surveyed the area. His expression remained neutral, but the swift scan of the courtyard in his gaze revealed his own bafflement.

Yet in time, his mouth opened.

"Don’t touch the food or anything."

His tone held an uncommon gravity.

"I can’t perceive things as sharply anymore. I’m unable to say if this spot is genuine or illusory. That said, it’s wisest if we all avoid handling anything."

"That’s a wise choice."

A friendly voice rang out unexpectedly, belonging to a man clad in somber attire. The garments were finely crafted, yet plain without any decorations. No rings, jewels, or lavish touches.

The material of his outfit seemed high-quality too, as he drew near with a welcoming demeanor.

"Caution is always smart in unfamiliar surroundings. While all here are welcome to feast and drink freely, I wouldn’t fault anyone for steering clear of the spread. In the end, nothing is without cost."

The man let out a hearty laugh.

For some reason, his chuckle made me want to join in.

I wasn’t alone in that.

The others nearby also appeared to unwind somewhat.

"Well, why not all take a seat for the moment? Skip the eating, but at least unwind a touch. I can tell you’re all worn out."

The man gestured to the numerous chairs.

"If fatigue overwhelms you, rooms are available for rest, complete with showers and whatever else to rejuvenate you. And please..." He paused, placing a hand on his chest. "Feel free to ask any questions. I’ll answer as best I can."

"Where’s the exit?"

Leon inquired right away, not hesitating a beat.

The atmosphere grew tense briefly, but just for an instant. The man soon chuckled again, his cheerful sound bouncing around the courtyard as he regarded Leon.

He then indicated the castle.

"It’s within the castle. Proceed straight ahead and veer right. You’ll locate the exit, Leon. If you want to depart, I won’t stop you. Still, I’d prefer if you lingered a while longer."

"..."

Leon stayed silent, his eyes narrowing.

I quickly understood the cause of his look. He likely yearned to exit swiftly, but found it hard to discern the truth about the man we faced.

Finally—

"Sure."

He consented, his features softening as he headed to a chair and took a seat.

The man beamed with delight, directing his focus to the rest of us.

"And you others? Stay or go? As mentioned, I won’t compel you to remain. If you choose to, savor the meal and converse with those around. Sound good?"

He fixed his gaze on me.

"...You seem particularly drained, Seth. Not slept lately? Why not rest up and have some fun? I promise no harm will come to you."

Yeah, as if I’d trust that...

Maintaining a neutral face, I eventually mimicked Leon and settled into a seat.

'This could be a snare. Better to stay composed and assess things first.'

However, surveying the area, it truly exuded comfort and serenity. So much that I didn’t notice myself sipping from the wine glass in front of me.

"——!!"