With those words, the new arrivals were guided toward the side of the arena, their footsteps echoing faintly against the stone floor as they emerged into the open space. Several veterans followed behind them, some stretching their arms, others wearing relaxed smiles that carried an unmistakable sense of anticipation.
To them, this was entertainment. Newcomers always arrived filled with hope and confidence, and just as reliably, most of them would be crushed before the day ended. The thought alone seemed to amuse the seasoned fighters as they took their places near the edge of the arena, already judging which of the fresh faces would fall first.
The Divine Colosseum itself was overflowing with life. Every tier of seating rose high into the air, packed tightly with spectators whose voices blended into a roaring tide of sound. Some shouted the names of favored fighters, others argued loudly over bets, while a few simply watched in silence with sharp and experienced eyes.
