As we get more people, I'll add them in. We're going to end up with inventories, and probably a skill set, with bonuses and negatives to combat from your fighting style. I don't think the inventories will be much of an issue. Combat will be determined by opposed rolls. I'll try to keep things simple for my sake, but any issues, just point them out to me and we'll figure something out.
The Magister nods thoughtfully, and returns to speak to the cart-driver, who, in retrospect, is probably a slave trader. You all are taken from the line by a set of guards that weren't part of the ones guarding the carriage, and shown into a series of cells beneath the mansion.
There are several other individuals in the cells, but no more then ten or so. They are all toned, muscular, and scarred. They eye you from their cells inquisitively, but otherwise don't attempt to interact with you. You decide to sleep, and do so on the sparse cot provided in each cell.
The next morning, you are fed a wholesome but tasteless meal, and led into the courtyard with the other slaves. The Magister stands on a balcony above you all as the guards form you into a line. The Magister speaks, "I am Magister Flavius Octanius Meridius. You may call me Master or Master Meridius. I am now you're owner. Do not fret, for you are to be treated well. You are to become my gladiators, and as such, you will be trained, provided for, equipped, and treated as a prize possession. You will fight for me, and for the enjoyment of Rome, or you will die an ignomious death. If you fight hard enough, well enough, you may earn your freedom, and citizenship under Rome. If you fail, you will die. Training begins this day." With that, he turns and enters his mansion once more.
The man in charge of training approaches, wielding a whip and wearing light leather armor. He says, "I am your Doctore. You will do as commanded, or you will be punished severely. Today, training begins. The other gladiators know what to do. For those of you who do not, we will tolerate mistakes today, but no other day. Choose your weapons." He gestures with the whip to a rack of training weaponry made of wood, along with shields of various sizes.
What armaments do you choose?