The six headed toward the entrance of the bar, a loud, crowded place, typical of a college town pub. Right at the door, a couple of sorority-looking girls were sitting at a makeshift table with lists and pens, while a burly security guard monitored access.
The guard stopped them. "Are you here to play or just audience?"
"To play," replied Ruby, the most eager.
"Cool. Have bucks ahead," said one of the girls at the table, pointing to a sign in red letters. "Tonight is a special prize night. You have six players, you need to register a team name. There's a thousand dollars for first place."
The mention of a thousand dollars caused Ming's, Quinn's, and Ruby's eyes to widen with excitement. That was mere pocket change for Ethan and Max, but for Ming, it was real money that could mean an upgrade for his gaming rig or help with expenses.
Max and Ming looked at Ethan, who simply pulled out a roll of bills and paid the six entries without even blinking.
