by Gregori Stevald
as scribed by Ailress Doomforge



I was asked to write a book about the Arena. Apparently, as the Taskmaster I'm the foremost expert on it, even though I've never written a book before. In fact, a scribe is writing this because I'm just barely literate - I don't have time to read and write when there's fighting afoot. But ah well, such is life. Now, if you're a fighter looking to learn about the Arena so you can better participate in it, I have just one thing to say to you: YOU'RE WEAK! Put down this book this instant, pick up your sword and board, and get your maggot carcass in here on the double! For those of you still here, I suppose I can tell you a little about the Arena's workings.

A good place to start would be the purpose of the Arena. Why even have one? Well, here's why: Hydlaa is big. Big cities attract all sorts of people, including those with violent impulses. Sure, there's guard service and you can knock a few heads that way, but it earns you little more than ale money and a roof over your head. Not much prestige in it. There will always be some adventurous types who want to fight anything that moves, and several things that stay in one spot. In the Arena, they take those impulses to the outskirts of the city - away from the taverns - and put it towards possible fame and serious tria.

There's always something happening in the Arena. You can fight in one-on-one events. Gladiators and mercenaries from all races will be more than willing to test your mettle, and some shadier characters will be ready to backstab you and take the tria off your rotting corpse. Other sanctioned events include timed contests (for those who like to get it done quickly,) and group fights (for those who don't like to go it alone.) Last Man Standing is an impressive battle royale where the winner will get much acclaim and the losers…well, let's not talk about what happens to them. Stealth Kill is a newer event, requested by some of the rogues who prefer the subtle arts of combat. Unfortunately, Stealth Kill has proven difficult to spectate, as more than once the encounters have made their way into the viewing areas. But if, when it comes to fighting, you like to do it from behind, Stealth Kill is the event for you.

Animals more your thing? Try Beast Hunt. We've assembled creatures from all over Yliakum for combatants to kill, and is always a fun spectacle. Novices can find themselves facing clackers, intermediates may want to try the tefusang division, and our elite have the opportunity to go against our trepors. If I ever find some hunters with the guts to subdue ulbernauts long enough to drag them to the Arena, I might just make them available…but don't count on it. Consumers aren't used for fighting purposes. We have other uses for them, best unwritten.

Fighters in the Arena can get their weapons and armour repaired at the blacksmith's, potions of healing at the alchemist's, and food at the bakery. The bakery is the one place where fighting is disallowed, even in Stealth Kill. That said, I'd still watch my back there, were I you. Finally, betting on any events is strictly forbidden!* I hope to see you soon. Whether you come to fight or watch, you'll have a great time!.

*Unless I get a cut.