The Real World 22

Before figuring out the game, people must first come to terms with the changes in the world.

In a matter of moments, the first thing people noticed was what had vanished around them.

Plants—gone.

Animals—gone.

Food—gone.

Vehicles—gone.

Buildings—gone.

Everyday items—gone.

Cement, steel bars, chemical materials—gone.

Industrial machinery—gone.

Weapons—gone...

People were horrified to discover that everything they had once created, used, and possessed—all things and living beings—had been stripped away in an instant.

What was left?

Countless people stared blankly at the dirt roads beneath their feet, their eyes scanning the surroundings in a daze.

Then they found something: water.

Excitedly, people ran toward the direction of streams and rivers. All the water was crystal clear!

They reached out eagerly, scooping water from rivers, lakes, creeks, wells—even sewers.

The water was cold and tasteless.