"It is an unusually hot day on the 5th of Eleasias, Highsun in the year 1526 in the large metropolis that is now called Minghonda. The War of Redoubt has come to an end a few months ago, leaving the the Minghondian race victorious. They have called a Grande Festival in honor of their victory, and it has attracted travelers from all corners of Hanaa."

"You find yourselves on a bench in a stadium in the southern district of Minghonda, sitting next to each other to witness the games and enjoying the ale being sold by the peddlers. On the ground, two gladiators are fighting a professional, but non-mortal duel. On the benches below you, a rowdy group of Minghondians is cheering for their favorite fighter. Next to them, a group of foreigners in worn clothing sit and watch more quietly. It is clear from the atmosphere that the two groups do not like each other."

"A stranger dressed in black robes sits down on the bench above you. His hood is up to protect himself from the sun. He does not look up from the duel."