Athena watched the never-ending rain pour over the dense jungle, her gaze distant as she listened to the rhythmic patter against the canopy.
The downpour had started late last night and showed no signs of stopping. Water pooled on the uneven ground, turning the soil into thick mud that sucked at her boots.
A sudden announcement crackled through the camp's makeshift speakers, pulling her from her thoughts.
"Attention, contestants. Due to the heavy rainfall, the lower areas are at risk of flooding. For safety reasons, all participants must climb higher into the mountains. The recording will continue despite the storm."
Murmurs of discontent rippled through the crowd, but no one openly protested. The show's rules were clear, only in life-threatening situations would the game be paused.
Athena pulled on her rainproof jacket and adjusted her backpack. As the crew signaled for the hike to begin, she took her place among the contestants and started the ascent.
