Tales of Undeath: The Von Virtus Chronicles

XXII. Soldier of Misfortune

Cabdan: Today's show will be one like no other, gentlemen! Come on in!

His hands rubbed against one another and his grin was as wide as ever. Cabdan was at the entrance of the arena, welcoming those who had come to watch the upcoming fight. He had spent the entire morning hyping it up and drawing as much attention to it as possible, and it had bore fruit... The arena was packed, so full that it started to become impossible for anyone to so much as squeeze through the crowd.

Gorilla: Cabdan... We can't let more people in, we're bursting at the seams here...!

Cabdan's joyous expression made it clear that he wasn't bothered in the slightest.

Cabdan: Not a problem! Those who cannot fit inside can stay outside and peer through the windows. I personally allow it - free of charge! Also, make sure they are given something to stand on if they can't see anything... I don't want anyone to miss the spectacle!

Backstage, Faya prepared for the match... Her hands were already wrapped in protective bandages, and she was warming up. The steel on her boot's heel seemed particularly shiny. Oddly, Barr hadn't shown up yet.

Faya: That coward better not have gotten cold feet...

A man comes through the curtains that led into the arena.

Announcer: I've never seen us so full! The crowd is ecstatic, hungry for blood...!

He looks around the backstage area.

Announcer: But... Where's Barr?

Faya shrugs.

Faya: Probably too afraid to come. Seems like he only dares to make a move when his opponent's back is turned...

The announcer raises his brow. Suddenly, the door that connects the backstage area to another of the building's entrances opens. It was Barr, already fully geared up and ready for the fight.

Barr: I'm here. So, can we start yet?

He seemed calm and collected. Faya... Not so much.

Faya: What the fuck do you think you're doing? You can't just prepare outside of the backstage area!

Barr's mouth curves into a cocky smile.

Barr: What's the matter, afraid that I'm fighting dirty...? I know the rules as much as you do. I wouldn't dare to bring anything that could give me an unfair advantage...

Her disgusted face made it clear that she didn't buy it.

Faya: As if I'd take your worthless word for it. Hey, you! Get one of Cabdan's goons in here to search him. I don't trust him one bit...

Barr shakes his head as he shrugs.

Barr: Suit yourself...

The announcer goes and returns with one of Cabdan's men. Barr seems to be thoroughly searched... No weapons are found on him.

Goon: He's clear...

Barr smiles.

Barr: See? Told you.

Faya squints.

Faya: You're one fucking cunning coward...

Barr: Hahaha... Quite angry, aren't we? That's good! You can let all of it out soon enough.

She clenched her teeth, not convinced in the slightest that he had no tricks up his sleeve. Still, there was little time to dwell on it. As soon as Cabdan was made aware of Barr's arrival, he rushed backstage.