Chapter 78

When they arrived at the plaza, where most of the action would be kicking off from, they were greeted by the manager, who led them straight up to the small roof terrace. From what Taylor could see, their spot was one of the only ones that allowed spectators to actually see what was unfolding.

And what a sight it was. Tens of thousands of men, women and children were crammed into the plaza and the surrounding narrow streets. Many of the shop fronts and homes had been protected with huge plastic sheets. Scores of mostly young men were attempting to shimmy their way up a two-story pole with what looked like a hock of ham at the top, but he guessed it must be greased, for the men got no further than a couple of feet before sliding back down on top of each other, only to immediately try again.

Chairs had been laid out for them; the terrace was safe enough for the kids to jump up and down with the excitement of it all.

Never in his wildest dreams had Taylor imagined he would take a day off