Dracius, ever the master of ceremonies, orchestrated the symbolic passing of the weapons with flair. A fellow gladiator swiftly transferred a shield and sword to Dracius, who, in turn, sent them hurtling through the air towards Alcides.
As if an unspoken pact with destiny, Alcides caught the weapons with an uncanny grace that reverberated through the arena. His movements, though untested in the gladiatorial arena, spoke of an innate skill that belied his young age. The dignitaries, including the senators, exchanged impressed glances, murmuring among themselves.
Senator Varro: "Did you see that? The lad caught those weapons like he was born to wield them."
Senator Decimus, growing increasingly uneasy about the inquiries regarding Alcides, maintained a composed exterior. "He's just a serv
