I enter the Arena

I face my opponent

Shield in one hand

Short sword in the other

He has net and spear

Our bodies glisten with sweat

The crowds roar

wishing blood

I hate them

but

I must fight to live

I do not want to kill

but

I will

He throws his net

I dodge

Stab him in the side

DEEP

Mortally wounded

I finish him

better than a lingering death

Died with honour.

I hope I go out this life that way...

Yet again

I live to fight another day.