The Imperial Coliseum was grand. Every seat was filled, from the lowest commoner benches to the ornate boxes reserved for nobility. The morning sun glinted off weapons and jewelry alike as the crowd waited for the tournament to begin.
Colorful banners representing the sixteen great houses fluttered from the coliseum's upper tiers, while vendors weaved through the common sections selling everything from spiced meats to commemorative tokens. The air buzzed with excitement. Bets were being placed, favorites discussed, and the names of notable competitors passed from mouth to ear across the packed arena. For many citizens, this was a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle, a chance to witness greatness and perhaps see history being made.
