Edormiscus The Samnite vs. Drago The Dimacherius. This first match was short and sweet--for Drago had had little training. First blood went to Edormiscus, and shortly after that, Drago was bleeding profusely. The physicians could not save him.

Edwald The Thraex vs. Chula The Samnite. The audience was shocked at the newcomer in this match--a short, yellow-skinned black-haired barbarian--the first of his race the arena had seen. Speculation was rife as to his skills, but within the first strokes, it was clear that Edwald was the far better fighter. It was the Teuton who scored first, and dominated the match. A swift stroke to the stomach ended the serican's short career.

Fulvius The Hoplomachus vs. Hanno The Myrmillo. The crowd roared to see Hanno, for he had been a favorite in recent months. The cheers turned to hisses quickly enough when the match went in favor of the spear-wielding Fulvius. With a longer reach, Fulvius gained the advantage, and used it to the full. Hanno raised a hand in submission, and was led away.

Simo The Thraex vs. Eric The Retiarius. Simo took first blood before he broke a sweat. Eric fought well, but was no real match for the Carthaginian. Simo managed to maneuver the net man so that his main weapon was useless, and soon had the Frisian asking for mercy, which was granted.

Discantus The Dimacherius vs. Tigris The Myrmillo. Tigris walked out confidently, greeted by cheers. Both were veterans, but Tigris was slightly more experienced than the dimacherius. From the first strokes, it was clear that he had been practicing, for his moves were fast. First blood came quickly to Tigris, and it wasn't long before the dimacherius lost one of his swords. With a slash to the thigh, Discantus was down, and was unable to rise again. Mercy was granted him, and he was saved by his physician.

Drabba The Retiarius vs. Nessim The Thraex. Nessim was greeted by shouts and stamping feet--he had been doing well in his matches, and today would be no exception. Whether it was from too much wine the night before, or lack of practice, Drabba nearly tripped over his net when he entered the grounds! It could only be said that the fight went downhill from there. First strike went to Nessim, neatly cutting Drabba's net open in the process, and soon after the trident was lodged in the arena wall after a cast missed the agile thraex. Nessim gave a swift back-handed cut with his scimitar, and nearly removed Drabba's arm. Carried out, Drabba died of his injuries.