Iliathor Arena

Rising from the heart of the Arts District like a marble colossus, Iliathor Arena is a monumental amphitheater capable of holding up to 40,000 roaring spectators.

Unlike some other parts of the world, slavery and fatal sports are outlawed in the Valo-Nymerian Empire. Thus, combatants who fight on Iliathor Arena’s sands vary from prisoners to veterans, actors to athletes, all of whom see gladiatorial combat as equal parts art and spectacle. A dedicated team of clerics is always on hand to ensure combatants won’t succumb to their wounds.

Exterior

Iliathor Arena’s outer walls are fashioned from pale limestone veined with crimson quartz, designed to catch the sunset in fiery tones—a purposeful homage to Pelor’s divine light and the blood spilled in the sand below. Towering bronze statues of legendary gladiators flank the pathway to the main gates, each immortalised with their signature weapons and victory poses.

Interior

Inside, tiered stone seating arcs high around the central pit—a broad oval of compacted golden sand. A series of runic glyphs are etched into the arena floor, capable of dampening lethal blows for exhibition matches or amplifying the appearance of spells during grand tournaments. Beneath the stands, a labyrinthine subterranean complex of training pits, cages and staging halls buzzes with activity. The clang of steel, the scent of oil and sweat and the growl of dangerous beasts blend into a restless undercurrent.

Vault of Champions

Beneath the lowest tier lies the Vault of Champions, a dimly lit hall lined with memorials to the greatest warriors to ever fight on the arena sands. Their weapons and armor—some said to bear divine blessings or ancient curses—are displayed as relics to inspire those who see them.

Vaela Thorne

Grand Commissioner Vaela Thorne is a former gladiator who now oversees events at Iliathor Arena. Ever the consummate professional, she ensures honour and showmanship remain the focus of every bout.

Rumours whisper that she bankrolls the Dockside Pits to poach new talent, though none have dared to openly accuse her of this.

The Festival of Blades

Every year, the Festival of Blades fills Iliathor Arena to capacity, drawing challengers from across Aelor to test their might in ritualized combat. The air tremors with cheers and the tolling of the victory bell echoes throughout the Arts District. For that week, the city becomes a crucible of fire, courage and fame—where heroes rising and falling beneath the unblinking gaze of the eternal flame.