New Mission

"How was it?" Macrus rubbed his hands together and looked at Zhang Heng expectantly.

Zhang Heng tested the two Persian Swords in his hands and nodded. "Not bad."

"As long as you like them. I'm counting on you this time," Macrus said. "For the honor of Victor Arena, we have to take first place in this gladiatorial exhibition."

"I'll do everything I can," Zhang Heng said.

"Good. I knew you were the most reliable." Macrus patted Zhang Heng's shoulder in satisfaction. "Besides you, we're also sending Bach, Habitus, Canero, Murkasan, Parar, and Miro, making up the seven-man quota. But you're still the one I have the highest hopes for. I also had Gabi look into the fighters from the other arenas and mark the key people to watch out for, though the exact roster won't be available until tomorrow. Oh, right. There's a banquet tonight, and you need to attend."

Zhang Heng raised an eyebrow.

"I know, I know, we have an agreement, but this time is different. The banquet is being held at Senator Dio's home. He's one of the most powerful men in the entire Senate. The most influential people in the Empire will be there, including His Majesty the new emperor. They want to see what the warriors preparing to enter the arena tomorrow are like before the gladiatorial exhibition begins. It isn't just you; every gladiator has to go. I'll have someone bring you a new set of clothes this afternoon."

With that, Macrus turned and headed out the door. However, when he reached the doorway, he stopped again. After a pause, he added, "You'd better use the time you have left to take a bath and put on some perfume. Trust me, making yourself popular with those people will never be a bad thing. You're