Machines clink,

Chips drop,

Shouts of joy sound

and groans of loss as money is exchanged.

The air thick with alcoholic breath.

A golden haze around the highest bidder 

and the biggest winner by far.

As the ball spins round,

like a ticking timer waiting to stop.

The stakes are high.

All warnings forgotten.

"Don't fly too high or you'll lose it all.

For tonight, the great Icarus falls.