The Gambling Ring, located east of Lana's Night Out, was a notorious establishment renowned for its high-stakes gambling activities.
It served as a gathering place for individuals from diverse backgrounds, all seeking to test their luck and skills in various games of chance. The ring provided a wide array of gambling options, catering to different preferences and interests.
As Tanya pushed open the colossal iron doors, Alec was met with a sight that defied his expectations for the Slums.
Stepping inside, they were greeted by an elegantly decorated foyer adorned with silver chandeliers casting a soft, golden glow. The staff moved with poise and elegance, mirroring the mannerisms of esteemed establishments in Stardust.
Each person wore a mask, presumably to maintain their anonymity, though Alec knew their masks were meaningless before his absolute power.
Tanya navigated the venue effortlessly, displaying her familiarity with the place. They strolled across the checkered tiled floor until they reached a pair of golden doors. Tanya presented her card, causing the doors to slide open.
Entering the Card Room of the Gambling Ring, they found themselves surrounded by opulent decor. Deep red velvet drapes hung from the ceiling, emitting a warm and inviting radiance. Crystal chandeliers shimmered overhead, their light reflecting off the polished surfaces of the tables.
At the room's center, a large intricately carved wooden table served as the focal point. Its surface was covered in smooth, emerald-green felt, enticing players to gather and test their skills in the classic card games that dominated the space.
Several players sat around the table, their gazes intense as they examined the cards they had been dealt. Some occasionally glanced at their opponents, attempting to decipher any subtle hints conveyed through facial expressions.
A single mistake in controlling one's facial expression could often give away valuable clues when facing less experienced players.
However, as they climbed to the top, the game changed. It required delving deeper than mere facial expressions, as experienced players often employed deception to mislead opponents. In most cases, a variety of methods needed to be employed to detect flaws in an opponent's game, although even that was not foolproof, merely increasing one's chances.
Flanking the central table were several smaller tables, designed for the same purpose. Numerous players were already engrossed in intense games, ranging from poker to blackjack. Some chose to wear masks, fearing their identities would be exposed, while others opted to engage in the games without concealing their faces.
Alec speculated that those who forfeited their anonymity likely possessed impressive backgrounds that afforded them such a privilege.
Keeping his gaze fixed on Tanya, he observed her move among the tables until she reached the central one. The dealer locked eyes with her, and Alec detected a flicker of excitement in the dealer's silver eyes.
"Look at what we have here. If it isn't the legendary God Gambler herself, Tanya the Fabled," a smile curved on the dealer's lips.
"Ah, Marcus 'The Magician,' it's been a while, hasn't it?" Tanya smiled, taking a few steps and embracing Marcus in a warm hug.
The players whispered among themselves as they took a good look at the Gambling Ring's legendary player.
Most of them hadn't seen her in person before, but the name
Tanya conjured up an unforgettable image. Her unbeatable record in terms of wins to losses was renowned.
Her name was often mentioned, especially by staff members who were utterly enamored by her abilities. Regardless of the game she played, whether new or old, she always dominated. As of now, she had never lost a single game since she began playing.
"We are going to play a game of Blackjack after this. Do you want to join us?" Marcus offered.
"I am actually going to have someone else play for me. That one over there," Tanya pointed to Alec.
Alec gently adjusted his collar and thrust a hand into his pocket, feigning nervousness before walking over to them.
Marcus examined him like a new card, taking stock of all his features, from the way he walked to the uneven rhythm of his breathing.
Likewise, Alec returned the favor.
Marcus was a striking figure, exuding an air of mystery and charisma. He was dressed in a tailored black suit, which added sophistication to his overall appearance. His eyes held a touch of intrigue, sparkling with a mischievous glint that hinted at his cunning nature.
Marcus possessed a lean and agile physique, allowing him to move with grace and precision, as seen in the way he shuffled the deck of cards in his hand.
What amazed Alec the most was the waves of power that emanated from the man, subtly engulfing the entire room in a thin layer of spiritual energy that could be solidified in an instant, forcing everyone to freeze on the spot.
It was something only Internal Energy Practitioners of the 7th Tier could achieve.
The West District of the Slums was truly a place filled with hidden dragons and crouching tigers. That information would come in handy.
It also meant he had to keep a much lower profile and try his best to remain as average as possible to avoid drawing attention.
With the way things were going, he wouldn't be surprised if there was a Soulburner in the 11th Tier lurking somewhere here, observing the movements of the slums. A reevaluation was needed ASAP.
Extending a gloved hand, Marcus asked Alec, "Who might you be, young man?"
Feeling all the eyes in the room fixate on him, Alec's figure shrunk under the pressure. Shivering, he reached out, clasping Marcus's hand and feeling the strength behind his grip.
Tanya watched the exchange between Alec and Marcus with interest, wondering what Marcus would glean from their single interaction.
Marcus had the uncanny ability to thoroughly read a person at a glance, and he was rarely ever wrong.
Tanya could vouch for him since he had read her like an open book the first time she came. Over the years, she had subsequently observed him read a few new participants with inhuman precision.
"I... I'm... Alec," he said.