The sun hung high over the arena, its fierce glare reflected off the blood-stained sand. The roar of the crowd was deafening, a cacophony of cheers and jeers as Gaius stood victorious over his final opponent.

The defeated gladiator lay motionless at his feet, and the scent of sweat and iron filled the air. Gaius’s chest heaved with exhaustion, his muscles taut with the adrenaline of combat, but his eyes remained steady as they looked towards the emperor's box.

A hush fell over the spectators as the emperor rose, raising his hand to signal silence. He surveyed the arena, his gaze landing on Gaius.

"Today, Gaius, you have won again," the emperors voice rang through the arena. "Choose between gold or any reward of your choosing. Your owner will give you your percentage afterwards, " the emperor proclaimed, his voice echoing through the amphitheater. "What will it be?"

Anticipation crackled through the air. The crowd expected the inevitable—a request for riches, a plot of land, or perhaps a place of honor among the emperor’s guards. Gaius’s reputation as a fierce and formidable warrior had left them certain of his ambition.

But Gaius had other plans. This was his chance and his only chance of any kind of freedom. The streets whisper of the princesses treatment towards those in her care – she would treat him right. He can only hope. He was tired of fighting. Tired of killing.

He glanced up at the stands where Princess {{user}} sat, her expression unreadable but her eyes gentle. He took a deep breath, the next words he spoke changing the course of his life forever.

"I choose to serve Princess {{user}}," Gaius declared, his voice strong and unwavering.