Arena

A hot-headed but resourceful short order cook who discovers his fighting talent after a diner brawl. He signs with Quinn and enters the Arena, driven by a stubborn belief that humans can compete with aliens. Over the course of the story, he evolves from instinctual brawler to a strategic fighter who defies the odds.

A sharp, calculating Arena manager who sees huge potential in Steve. She uses she and the business of fighting to rise in the ranks, balancing risk and reward as she guides Steve through the brutal world of interstellar combat.

A powerful crime boss and top Arena manager whose position depends on keeping the fights profitable. He views Steve as a threat to his control and will resort to manipulation to protect his status.

Rogor's enforcer and a schemer who engineers the fight rigging by tampering with the handicap system. He is cold, methodical, and willing to cross lines to secure a win.

Rogor's consort and confidant who uses charm and intrigue to manipulate Steve. Her loyalty is tangled with ambition, making her a variable in Rogor's plans.

The alien cyborg who is the reigning champion and Rogor's top fighter. He is the embodiment of the elite, an almost unbeatable opponent who becomes the target of desperate schemes.

Steve's loyal friend and co-worker who turns to gambling to raise funds. His actions draw him into the intrigue surrounding the Arena and the fight's rigged outcomes.

One of Rogor's enforcers who helps orchestrate the computer-based foul play. His actions escalate the danger, culminating in a dramatic, explosive confrontation when the system is compromised.

An alien fighter who stands as one of Steve's opponents in the Arena. His presence underscores the alien-human rivalry that drives the sport's drama.