Chapter 20: The Arena
The underground arena wasn't at all like Yuka had imagined. Far from being a secretive, unmentionable club, it was brazenly situated right beneath the capital's Central Square.
Getting there was a breeze. Just stroll into the big supermarket on the square's edge, hop into an elevator, and hit the basement button - no secret handshake required.
At basement level, burly guards in black suits flanked a massive black door, letting Yuka and her two companions in after a quick weapons check.
Yuka fiddled with 'the butler' in her pocket, her ears catching the din ahead:
"I'm betting on Number 11!"
"Well, I'm backing Number 8!"
In the hall, a massive panoramic screen showcased two mechas – a sleek black Number 8 and a vibrant green Number 11 – squared off in a silent standoff.
Below the holographic display, rowdy bettors clutching their chips shouted support for their chosen mechas, wagering all they had.
Yuka approached the betting table where a bald man, upon seeing her, asked with a grin, "Fancy a bet, miss?"
The butler, peering out from its virtual hideaway, warned, "Master, a lady shouldn't gamble."
Ignoring it, Yuka asked, "What are the rules?"