As she watched the reporter dash out of the room, Maria Zahn rubbed the bridge of her nose. The bright smile she wore for the outsider dimmed until her mouth drew tight. With great effort, she spun her wheelchair so that her back was to the door and her desk. Running a stray hand through her hair, she grabbed the phone that was on the small table to her left. She quickly dialed the usual number. "Hello?" answered the other line, before the second ring. She had chosen her staff well. "This is Zahn. Are the newcomers with you?" "Yes, of course, Miss Zahn," was the immediate response. The voice was tight and quiet, one used to taking orders. "Good. You can send them up, Simon." As Maria hung up the phone, she placed it back on the table, grabbing the glass of brandy that was next to the phone's resting place. Swirling it idly, she wondered if the newcomers would understand just what this was. She had been let down before by others but she had taken precautions this time. The trainers had taught them how to use their decks and they were already illustrating their capabilities as performers. The initial test had separated the tryhards from the potential Duelists and she had to admit she was pretty proud of herself for thinking of it. Rather than simply test how good they were with the cards, as that could be improved with time, those who were auditioning were tasked with creating an entertaining and intense duel. Everyone had been given the same cards and the ten that were on their way up tonight, they had proven capable of doing more than just playing to win. Sipping her drink, Maria smiled to herself, although far more subdued than her talk with the reporter. These kids would do well, even if she had to strike fear into them. Sometimes, that was just the way things were. An older man sighed as he hung up the phone, turning his eyes back on the room he was in. It was a rather spacious one, especially considering there were only about 12 people in the room. Large tables were set-up so that the group could sit down where they wanted to, whether it was alone at the end or clustered with others. But they wouldn't be staying here for long. Simon cleared his throat to get everyone's attention. "Thank you all for your patience. I am Simon Montbel, Miss Zahn's right-hand. On her behalf, I wish to extend a warm welcome to you all. We at the WDF strive to provide thrilling entertainment using advanced Solid Light and holographic technology as well as..." He stopped and chuckled to himself. "You don't need the whole spiel, I suppose. In any case, welcome. Tonight, all of you will be having your debut matches. I can explain the rest, but Miss Zahn insisted on speaking to you all personally on this. So, if you'll follow me, it is time to meet the boss." Simon walked over to sizable elevator, large enough to fit the entire party inside without them feeling cramped.
"You too. Man...that cut it pretty close at the end."
For now he decided to take a seat and watch how the next set of duels unfolded.