The Northwood Unity Tournament was a masterpiece of corporate propaganda.
The Cross Corp Arena was a gleaming temple of glass and steel, packed to the rafters with a screaming, cheering crowd.
Banners with the Cross Corp logo hung from every surface.
Flashy, high-definition screens broadcasted slickly produced commercials showcasing the company's supposed commitment to the community.
It was a circus.
And they were the main event.
Miles stood with Clara and Leo in the massive, echoing tunnel that led out to the arena floor.
He could hear the roar of the crowd, a physical, living thing that seemed to shake the very foundations of the building.
"Well," Leo said, adjusting the thick, nerdy glasses on his face.
"This is all very subtle and low-key."
"I was expecting more explosions."
"And maybe a laser light show."
"I feel a little underwhelmed, to be honest."
Miles just grunted, pulling the hood of his simple, black athletic sweatshirt lower over his face.
