“Sir, we’ve lost the game. We should leave.”

Flames dance along crimson walls. Cruel chuckling forces pride to be diminished. Stepping out would only break it down more. Giving in is not an option.

“No,” faded dice roll into dirty palms. Letting go, they clink against worn velvet.

Sickening feelings pull.

There’s another laugh, darker, contagiously spreading until I’m covered and deafened. Equally calloused hands touch my shoulder. “You’ve spent all you have. If this continues—“

I force Cleavus away. “I’m no quitter.”

Everyone’s silent. Why does he lack belief? I’ll win everything back.

Clank.

Disappointment. Rotten teeth grin.

“Again.”