I M P A C T || N.DRAGNEEL

0.0

In the dimly lit cavern of the underground boxing arena, the atmosphere exudes an electrifying blend of anticipation and raw intensity. The air is thick with the scent of sweat and determination, heightened by the distant echoes of eager spectators. Harsh, flickering fluorescent lights cast dynamic shadows across the worn canvas of the boxing ring, revealing a tapestry of stories etched into its surface.

The murmur of conversations and the occasional roar of the crowd reverberated through the gritty space, creating an immersive backdrop for the relentless clashes between contenders. The rough-hewn walls, adorned with layers of peeling posters and graffiti, bear witness to the countless battles that have unfolded within these subterranean confines.

This clandestine arena becomes a crucible where passion, skill, and primal energy converge, shaping a unique and unforgettable spectacle beneath the surface of the conventional world.

"Welcome, everyone!" echoed a booming voice throughout the bustling arena. Thunderous cheers reverberated, causing the ground to tremble as the audience rose, clapped, and whistled in unison. "I can feel the excitement in the air for this highly anticipated fight, the one you've all eagerly awaited all month!" The music blared, echoing off the walls and injecting an additional surge of adrenaline into the spectators. Mugs of beer clashed onto tables amid delighted moans from the drinkers, all enthusiastically cheering for the imminent showdown.

The unpleasant blend of alcohol and cigarette odor greeted me as I cautiously opened the door. I thanked the security guard and he nodded in acknowledgment. Anxiously biting my bottom lip, I noted the crowded venue, making it challenging to navigate through the moving bodies. Amidst the hubbub, a short, balding announcer with a few hair strands resembling horns on the sides declared, "Hold on to your drinks and money, the fight is about to begin!" His yellow cape flowed dramatically behind him, adding flair to the announcement.

The pounding music shook my body, rendering me temporarily numb as it added more to my nerves. Gasping for air, I successfully extricated myself from the crowd, finally inhaling deeply to replenish my oxygen supply.

I flinched as my phone vibrated in my pocket,

' you alive? '

I sighed, rolling my eyes at both the message and my uneasiness,

' as of right now, yea.'

' good. just don't do anything stupid.'

' won't make any promises.'

Venturing here alone as a reporter is definitely risky; discovery could mean serious consequences. I could get killed... Well, that might be a little dramatic... though the possibility of getting jumped and ending up in the hospital is still a possibility.

Recently, there's been a surge in underground boxing matches like this one. The police have uncovered around five in a month, a stark contrast to the sporadic discovery of one every three months over the last decade. As a reporter, it's my responsibility to keep society informed, and the prospect of being the one to unravel the mystery behind this sudden increase makes me tingle.

Which brings me back to here.

I guess I moved without thinking. I've been researching, talking, and stalking those who were even remotely connected to these events.

I successfully befriended a college girl associated with these underground fights. Despite how effortlessly we connected, she displayed a high level of trust by sharing the location of the ongoing fight and the passcode for entry. After all my research, I impulsively agreed and came here without a plan.