Pretending to be a noob in a world scaled by power level

[71] Roma

As we descended from the sky docks, we were greeted by the magnificent vista of Roma. The city sprawled beneath us, an impressive patchwork of orange, brown and white, enclosed by a strong, imposing wall of polished stone. The iconic domed structures of its grand coliseums, the largest and most famous being the Colosseo, pierced the skyline, casting long shadows over the city.

Roma was a bustling hub of life and activity, a mix of the modern and the traditional. Paved roads, lined with terracotta roofed houses and intricately detailed marble buildings, crisscrossed the city. Bustling markets filled with various stalls selling fruits, vegetables, textiles, and other goods from all corners of the continent bustled with city dwellers and adventurers alike.

On the streets, citizens strolled wearing togas and tunics in a myriad of colors, mingling with adventurers in armor and robes. The distinct clash of steel echoed from the training grounds, where gladiators practiced under the watchful eyes of their trainers.

To the east of the city, majestic aqueducts stood, supplying water to the many public baths and fountains that decorated the city's many plazas. Olive groves and vineyards could be seen in the distance, adding to the city's charm.

The city was filled with the sweet aroma of baking bread, mingling with the more robust smells of roasting meats and the salty tang of olives, wafting from the numerous taverns and inns.

Despite the many years that had passed since its conception, Roma remained a testament to its rich history, an architectural gem boasting grand palaces, temples, and amphitheaters. Each brick and stone held stories of legendary heroes, glorious victories, and civilization's unfailing resilience. A city of marble and strength, of wisdom and courage, the city of Roma was truly a sight to behold.

***

We then went to a local tavern named, The gladiator.

Inside, the space was crowded, all the tables were taken, the only available seats was at the counter. As we sat down, I couldn't help but catch the nearby conversation of other adventurers:

"There's no grander spectacle in all of Roma than the arena duels!" said a burly man with a thick beard and an even thicker accent, gesticulating with a meaty hand. "It's where the real heroes are made!"

The woman beside him, her armor battered and dented, nodded fervently, her hazel eyes gleaming. "Yeah, and not just the heroes. It's also a chance for rookies to prove their worth, climb the ranks. It's a battlefield, a test of strength, wits, and bravery!"

A third adventurer, a wiry elf with a long silver braid, chuckled. "That's all well and good, but don't forget the prize, mates. A hefty sack of gold for the victor. It's not just about honor and glory, it's about riches too."

A fourth adventurer, younger and less rugged than his companions, listened intently, his green eyes wide. "Is it true that the battles are fought to the death?" he asked, his voice a little shaky.

The older, more seasoned adventurers shared a look, their smiles a mix of nostalgia and amusement. "No lad," replied the burly man, a knowing twinkle in his eye. "Not to death, but it's no walk in the park either. The battles are fierce, and the pain is real. But if you're brave enough, strong enough, and a wee bit lucky, you might just walk away with your life...and a hefty purse of gold."

After quickly weighing the pros and cons, I walked up to the group of adventurers, clapping a hand on the shoulder of the burly man. He looked up, his gaze meeting mine with a surprise that quickly turned into a welcoming grin.

"Well, look what we have here, lads and lasses," he boomed, raising his ale-filled mug towards me. "A newcomer with a taste for information!"

"Information," I said, pulling up a chair and leaning in, "that I'm willing to pay for."

There was a brief silence, followed by a collective chuckle. The woman was the first to speak, leaning back in her chair with a teasing smile. "A man after my own heart," she said. "What's your poison, stranger?"

"A round of your finest ale," I replied, signaling a tavern maid with a wave. "In exchange, I'd like to hear more about the arena rules."

At the mention of the arena, their grins widened. The burly man was the first to speak. "Well, newcomer, let me explain," he started, leaning in closer as if sharing a secret. "Firstly, there are two types of arenas here in Roma. The pro arena, only open to those who've reached S-tier or above, and the non-pro arena, for those who are A-tier or below."

The wiry elf continued. "In both arenas, the match begins with the sound of the horn. If you faint or surrender, you lose. But remember, these battles can be brutal, and you'll feel every punch and every slash. It's not a fight for the faint-hearted."

The young adventurer added, his voice soft yet serious. "Remember, the arena isn't just a test of strength, it's also a test of tactics, endurance, and resolve. So newcomer, do you think you have what it takes?"

I looked back at the girls and to them again.

"I think more then enough." I grinned.

Q: Have you been to Rome before?