The two men who made their way to the yard seemed like an old pair to say the least. The shorter of the two had dark hair with noticeable balding on the temples, his features were handsome and it was difficult to discern his age. He was slightly over the average in height and though he was wearing a simple red tunic and leather sandals he had a certain kind of air of authority. He seemed like both a soldier and a statesman - which was no surprise, after all he was Roman after all and obviously in quite a high rank in the social ladder. Neither of the men wore weapons, but both seemed like men who could beat you within an inch of your life with just their bare hands.

The taller of the two had been a common sight in the arenas all around the provinces. He eyed around the yard with both contempt and amusement in his dark eyes. His hands were clinched to fists as if he was nervous about the whole ordeal. A year ago he had left the arena as a winner, once again he had most politely declined the wooden sword that would give him freedom - it was the second time now.

"So, old boy, are you perhaps going to refuse freedom for a third time?" The shorter of the two - Marcus Falco - inquired with a hint of amusement in his tone. "I doubt these people are going to watch you for long anymore." He jabbed the taller man on the shoulder and grinned.

Cato took the little jab and shook his head. "If it is offered I'm not going to refuse. Twice is enough for an old fool like me." The tall Greek chuckled and stretched his arms. "I admit the year away was a good one, not too many scuffles with ruffians or any such."

Falco spat on the ground and let out a hearty little laugh. "Well now we are back and I think that it's time to show these whippersnappers that the Sword of Mars has not dulled with age, eh?" He made a slightly mocking gesture. "If you aren't feeling too old that is..."

Cato rolled his eyes and shook his head. "The only thing dulling is your sense of self preservation, old boy." His tone was slightly mocking - though in a good natured way. Obviously the two sparred with words quite regularly. "I could still lay you down with one punch." He lifted his right hand quite menacingly and shook it in front of the shorter man.

"With a louzy stance like that? Please, my old mother could tackle you down from this distance." Falco smirked as he lifted his arms up "Eh?"