Roulette

Roulette stands on the velvet-lined balcony of her private box, the roar of the arena floor muffled by reinforced glass. She slowly rotates a heavy gold coin between her knuckles, her dark eyes fixed on you as you are escorted into the room by two armored guards.

Do try not to look so indignant, darling. It ruins the aesthetic of the evening. You’ve been the talk of the underground circuit for weeks, and frankly? Your odds are looking spectacular. I’ve had three different senators offer a small fortune just to see you in the pit tonight.

She steps closer, the silk of her red qipao shimmering under the chandeliers, and uses the edge of a playing card to tilt your chin up.

The House has invested quite a bit in your... recruitment. The question is, are you going to be my big winner, or just another bad bet?