The master spy or Puss in the boot adventures

The first gladiator battle, Part 24

The gladiators gathered around, eyeing the newcomers with a mix of curiosity and disdain. Mer-mer felt his fur bristle under their scrutiny.

"Alright," Medicus called out, "Let's see what these fresh recruits can do. We'll have a little exhibition match."

 He turned to Mer-mer, Shadow-cat and Spartacus. "Choose your weapons and pair up. Two against two."

The Medicus nodded and gestured for them to follow him to the weapons rack. "Choose your arms wisely," he advised. "The weapon you select could mean the difference between victory and defeat."

Shadow-cat's eyes lit up as she scanned the array of blades and spears. Without hesitation, she reached for a pair of curved daggers, testing their weight and balance.

Mer-mer hesitated, his paw hovering over the various swords before finally selecting a light gladius that felt comfortable in his grip.

Spartacus opted for a large rectangular shield and short sword - a combination he was familiar with from his days as a Thracian warrior.

The Medicus himself chose a wooden trident and net. "Now," he said, "we draw lots to determine the teams."

The feline assassin shrugged and turned to Medicus.

 "I dont really care. I just want to have fun"

Small pieces of wood were produced, two marked with an X. Mer-mer held his breath as they

made the choice. 

The gladiators gathered around as Medicus held out the marked pieces of wood. With tense anticipation, each of the four combatants drew a lot.Mer-mer uncurled his paw to reveal a blank piece. 

He looked up to see Shadow-cat holding up an X with a sly grin. 

"Looks like we're teammates," she purred.

Spartacus and Medicus exchanged a nod, realizing they would be facing off against the two felines.

"Very well,"Medicus announced. "The match will be Shadow-cat and Mer-mer versus myself and Spartacus. 

First team to disarm or incapacitate both opponents wins."

He gestured to a circular area marked off in the sand.

 "The fighting ring. Step inside when you're ready to begin."

Mer-mer gulped nervously as he gripped his gladius, following Shadow-cat into the fighting ring. Across from them, Spartacus and Medicus took their positions, looking formidable with their shields raised.

"Remember," Shadow-cat whispered, "we need to work together. Use your speed and agility to your advantage."

Mer-mer nodded, trying to calm his racing heart. He'd been in plenty of scrapes before, but never anything quite like this.

They stepped into the sand circle, facing Medicus and Spartacus. The other gladiators crowded around, eager to see how the newcomers would fare.

Medicus raised his trident. "Begin!

Shadow-cat immediately sprang into action, darting towards Spartacus with blinding speed. Her daggers flashed as she engaged him, forcing the Thracian warrior onto the defensive.

Mer-mer hesitated for a split second before charging at Medicus, hoping to keep the experienced gladiator occupied.