The resounding roar of the crowd reverberated loudly throughout the dimly lit underground arena. Men and women cheered eagerly, hoping to witness not only intense combat but also the possibility of acquiring valuable treasures. Known as the Gintoki Arena, this venue was just one among many located within the Crimson Quarter. Within its confines, individuals engaged in battles fueled by the pursuit of glory, monetary gain, or the absence of alternatives. The occupants here were far removed from the realm of "law-abiding citizens," and among them was Ayaka, who occupied a vantage point above the masses in a section reserved for those with deep pockets and extensive influence. Present at the arena out of sheer boredom, she attended as a guest of another patron.

Despite her relatively brief time in Fiore, Ayaka had discovered that a life shrouded in shadows offered a more enriching experience than one lived in the light. She had established connections, accumulated power, amassed wealth, and undertaken tasks that would stain her family's reputation. To claim that she was indifferent, however, would be an understatement. She harbored a single-minded goal that she was determined to achieve at any cost.

Seated elegantly, one leg crossed over the other, Ayaka wore a form-fitting dress adorned in shades of green and gold, featuring a side slit. Green heels adorned her feet, while her hair was meticulously arranged in a neat bun, accented by golden butterfly clips. Her visage was enhanced by subtle makeup, and a warm, alluring perfume enveloped her. Even within this dark and foreboding environment, Ayaka radiated an aura of flawlessness.

As the fight commenced, the combatants displayed promise, yet Ayaka had already placed her bet, confident in her foresight regarding the impending outcome. An empty seat rested to her left, while her "date" for the evening occupied the seat on her right. This gentleman, shorter than her, obediently followed her every word and directive, resembling a loyal dog on a leash. Casting her violet gaze downward toward the arena, Ayaka observed a somewhat chaotic spectacle, which, despite its untamed nature, offered a brutal form of entertainment that aligned with the expectations of the spectators. Her thoughts wandered momentarily, causing her to drift as she sought additional amusement for the night before getting up and leaving the venue.

- exit -

How delightful was this, a place where he could fight or sit back and watch others fight while he bet on the victory of another fighter?  Knuckles  Shi fit into both roles with ease being raised as a nobleman and spending most of his adult life as an Adventure.   For tonight though, he chose to wear a white suit, however, he made sure to keep his hammer on him.  Instead of a sword, this is what he carried, it was uncommon but the sheer sight of it was beautiful and deemed respect.  

As he watched the fighters, Knuckles sipped from his glass. He was enjoying an old named bourbon-styled drink. It was a bit bitter for his liking but he did enjoy the smoked barrel flavor that rolled off the tongue.  His pink-hued eyes watched as the two warriors below attempted to kill each other blow after blow. It was making him a bit excited, the smell of freshly drawn blood reaching his nose brought his lips into a tight curve.  His blood lust grew as he watched from above. Knuckles felt his hand gripping the hand guard in front of him with more than ordinary force, he could almost feel the wood grained handled starting to give under the weight of his grip.