A Second Life, A New Power

In truth, Maria didn't think Demi could succeed. She just thought that as a newcomer, Demi should actively participate in the games to gain more
screen time.
While Demi looked at Maria in surprise, everyone else turned their attention to Demi.
"Yeah. Let Demi have a shot," Nigel said.
Matt smiled and asked Demi, "Would you like to try?"
"Here you go." Chad stood up and handed Demi the candle.
After a brief pause, Demi took the candle, picked up a small stone from the ground, and walked over to a large rock by the roadside. Crouching down,
she raised the small stone and struck it sharply against the larger rock.
A visible spray of sparks flew out. Demi quickly brought the candle close to the sparks, and within moments, the wick flickered to life, the flame
swaying gently.
Everyone stared, speechless. Demi had some serious skills.
"That's amazing!" Chad was the first to break the silence, clapping enthusiastically.
The others snapped out of their daze and joined in, their faces lighting up with admiration.
Ana, though reluctant, forced a cheerful expression and clapped along.
Thomas applauded while gazing at Demi with a conflicting expression.

"Mr. Hahn, can I blow it out now?" Demi asked.
Matt nodded and replied, "Go ahead. Congratulations, Demi. The production team will reward you with four boxes of matches and a bundle of
candles for completing the challenge."
The staff handed the items to Demi.
"Wait a second. Mr. Hahn, are you serious? That's the reward? All of this isn't even worth ten dollars!" Maria protested.
Matt merely smiled, saying nothing.

Ana asked, "Are there no light sources at our accommodation?"
"Take a guess," Matt replied with a cryptic smile.
Everyone remained silent.
"Okay. Let's drop this for now. Mr. Hahn, can you give us something easier? The last two challenges were way too difficult," Nigel asked. He couldn't
bear the thought of Wendy walking another hour and a half up the mountain.
"Exactly! Have a heart, Mr. Hahn," Maria chimed in.
Matt looked at her with a stoic expression. "You already have a slot. Do you want me to revoke it?"
Maria quickly changed her position and apologized, "I was wrong."
"Okay. Let's move on to the third challenge. Lyrics Relay. Is this simple enough?" Matt announced.
"That's simple! Just get on with it, Mr. Hahn," a few of the singers in the group said excitedly.
"This isn't going to be some super obscure song, is it?" Wendy asked skeptically. She wasn't convinced Matt would make it that easy for them.

"You'll find out once I say the lyrics," he replied with a mysterious grin.
After Matt recited the lyrics for thirty seconds, Thomas jumped in with the answer before anyone else could react.
Nigel let out a sigh of disappointment. It was a well-known song, one he'd heard countless times. But he wasn't entirely sure about the lyrics, so he
hesitated, missing the opportunity.
What a pity to miss such a simple question. Unsurprisingly, Thomas gave the slot to Ana.
Matt handed Thomas a laptop.
"What am I supposed to do with this? At least give us something practical, like some supplies!" Thomas protested.
"Be grateful. That was such an easy question," Matt reminded.
Thomas remained silent. He had to admit that it was ridiculously simple. Just opening his mouth had earned him a spot.
Fine, then. He wouldn't complain anymore.

"Give us another easy one, Mr. Hahn!" Nigel looked at Matt eagerly.
"The fourth challenge is 'I Love Memorizing Lines.'"
Nigel's face immediately lit up. This was right in his wheelhouse. He couldn't help but think Matt was deliberately cutting him some slack.
Sure enough, Matt quoted a line from a classic movie, one so iconic that even non-actors would recognize it instantly.
Nigel answered correctly in seconds without breaking a sweat. So, he gave the spot to Wendy and won a laptop as a reward.
Everyone was in high spirits. The game had unfolded exactly as they had hoped—all four female guests had secured spots, leaving the group content
and satisfied.
"Mr. Hahn, will you finally tell us what mode of transport we'll use to get to the village?" Maria asked in anticipation.
"Are we riding donkeys?" Chad asked excitedly.
"Or is it horses? I can ride a horse!" Ana exclaimed as she raised her hand.
"Our transportation is just about to be here," Matt said, motioning behind him.
Just then, a distinct sound echoed through the air. All the guests except Demi froze in confusion.