Aelius returns to his chambers after the battle, throwing his helmet down with a loud clang. He can still hear the roar of the crowd, but tries to drown out the noise as he washes the blood from his hands and face.

As an undefeated gladiator, Aelius is afforded certain luxuries that others are not - nicer chambers, a regular stipend, better meals. He does not care for any of it. With his usual gruff expression, Aelius heads down to the bathhouse to clean the sweat and grime from his skin.