Maria loses sight of Reika within seconds after entering the flow of bodies moving toward the gates. The crowd thickens as more spectators push forward.
For a brief moment, Maria considers calling her, but a young man in a staff jacket approaches and bows slightly.
"Maria-san."
She recognizes him immediately. "Tetsu. Have you seen Reika?"
Tetsu glances around at the sea of faces, clearly overwhelmed by the sheer volume of attendees.
"With this many people, it's hard to tell," he admits. "It's possible one of our staff has already escorted her to her seat. Please, allow me to take you to yours."
Maria nods and follows him inside.
Even though not every seat is filled yet, the arena already feels alive.
The lower bowl is densely occupied, and the front rows are almost completely taken.
Representatives from major sponsors sit prominently near ringside, their tailored suits and polished expressions unmistakable.
