Carnarum Arenas

Carnarum, the brutal and beloved sport of the Namorian Republic, is played in a wide variety of arenas ranging from grand stadiums to hidden underground dens. These arenas not only serve as the battlegrounds for intense matches but also reflect the diverse nature of Namorian society itself. From official venues that host prestigious Astral League matches to clandestine pits where the most violent versions of the game unfold, each arena has its own unique character and history.

Standard Arena Setups

Before delving into specific famous arenas, it's important to understand the common layouts used in Carnarum:

• The Gauntlet - A long, narrow arena resembling an alley. This setup forces close-quarters combat and emphasizes speed and agility.
• The Field - An open arena with minimal obstacles, allowing for more tactical play and formation-based strategies.
• The Pit - A sunken arena with steep walls, inspired by the famous Forge Pit. Spectators look down from above, creating an intense, gladiatorial atmosphere.
• The Labyrinth - An arena filled with walls and obstacles, creating a maze-like environment. This setup is less common in professional matches due to visibility issues for spectators.
• The Amphitheater - A bowl-shaped arena with tiered seating, offering excellent visibility for spectators and a versatile playing field.

Official Arenas

The Colosseum of Namor

Originally built for gladiatorial combat and other spectacles, the Colosseum of Namor has been repurposed as the premier Carnarum venue in the Republic. Its massive size and circular shape make it ideal for hosting major Astral League matches and tournaments. Key features:

• Capacity: 50,000 spectators
• Retractable canopy for shade or weather protection
• Modular floor system allowing for quick changes between different arena setups
• Luxury boxes for wealthy patrons and visiting dignitaries

The Forge Pit

Located in the heart of Namor's industrial district, the Forge Pit is the spiritual home of the Forge Circuit. This compact, circular arena is known for its intense atmosphere and passionate crowds. Key features:

• Capacity - 8,000 spectators
• Steep walls surrounding a sunken playing area
• Minimal safety features, reflecting the Forge Circuit's more brutal style of play
• Notorious for the deafening noise created by spectators stamping on the metal bleachers

The Waterfields

Situated in the coastal city of Aquaris, the Waterfields is a unique arena complex built on a series of interconnected floating platforms. The constantly shifting nature of the playing surface adds an extra layer of unpredictability to matches. Key features:

• Capacity - 15,000 spectators (varies based on configuration)
• Modular design allowing for various arena layouts
• Some sections can be submerged or raised during play
• Spectators watch from boats surrounding the arena or from elevated stands on stable platforms

The Sky Arena of Mount Hrax

Perched high in the mountains, this arena offers breathtaking views and challenging playing conditions due to the thin air and unpredictable weather. Key features:

• Capacity - 10,000 spectators
• Open-air design with minimal wind barriers
• Carved directly into the mountainside, with some natural rock formations incorporated into the playing area
• Known for hosting the annual "Cloud Clash" tournament

Unofficial and Underground Arenas

The Undercity Gauntlet

Hidden beneath the streets of Namor, this illegal arena hosts some of the most violent and unregulated Carnarum matches in the Republic. Key features:

• Narrow, twisting layout inspired by the sewers and catacombs it's built within
• Limited spectator capacity (around 500) adds to the exclusive and dangerous atmosphere
• Frequent floods and cave-ins add to the already considerable dangers
• Rumored to host matches where losing teams are left to die in the maze-like tunnels

The Quarry

An abandoned marble quarry on the outskirts of the city of Lyrea has been converted into a rugged, multi-level arena for unsanctioned Carnarum matches. Key features:

• Natural stone terraces serve as seating for up to 3,000 spectators
• Sheer cliff faces and deep pits create a treacherous playing environment
• Lack of defined boundaries leads to sprawling, chaotic matches
• Moonlight and torches provide dramatic, shadowy illumination for night games

The Dockyards

This informal arena in the port city of Neapolis takes advantage of the natural layout of the harbor and warehouses to create a unique playing experience. Key features:

• Matches often involve multiple ships and docks as part of the playing area
• Cargo crates and barrels serve as obstacles and impromptu seating
• Water hazards add an extra element of danger and strategy
• Popular with sailors and dock workers, matches often break out spontaneously

Pleasure Parlors and Scandalous Venues

The Silken Arena at Madame Lyrelle's

This infamous establishment in Namor's red-light district offers a unique and scandalous twist on Carnarum. Key features:

• Small, intimate arena surrounded by plush seating and private booths
• Matches feature scantily-clad or nude courtesans as players
• Spectators can bid for the right to join the game, with play often devolving into erotic encounters
• Use of oils and scented powders on the playing surface adds a sensual element to the game

The Pit of Desires

Located in the basement of an exclusive gentlemen's club, this venue caters to the most debauched tastes of Namor's elite. Key features:

• Sunken pit surrounded by tiered seating for about 200 spectators
• Matches often feature slaves or indentured servants competing for freedom or privileges
• Spectators can purchase the right to add "challenges" or obstacles during the game
• Known for its anything-goes atmosphere, with matches frequently ending in orgies or bloodshed

The Floating Fantasies

A repurposed pleasure barge moored in a secluded cove outside Aquaris, this venue combines Carnarum with nautical themes and hedonistic excess. Key features:

• Matches played on the deck of the barge and in shallow water around it
• Spectators watch from smaller boats or from within the barge itself
• Players are often local courtesans or visiting sailors looking for extra coin
• Games frequently incorporate erotic challenges or forfeits
• Rumored to host exclusive, invitation-only events for the wealthiest and most powerful citizen

The Fool's Court

Exaggerated, comical versions of famous arena obstacles Located in the theater district, the Fool's Court is a comedy venue that stages outrageous parodies of Carnarum matches. These performances blend slapstick humor, political satire, and audience participation. Key features:

• Exaggerated, comical versions of famous arena obstacles
• Actors playing bumbling versions of well-known Carnarum stars
• Scripted "matches" that lampoon current events and public figures

Repurposed Spaces and Impromptu Arenas

The Forum Scramble

When the sun goes down, the grand Forum of Namor transforms into an impromptu Carnarum arena. Players must navigate around statues, fountains, and colonnades while avoiding the night watchmen who attempt to break up the illegal games. Notable features:

• Marble surfaces that become treacherously slippery when wet
• The added challenge of playing in near-silence to avoid detection
• Temporary goals made from market stalls or overturned carts

The Marketplace Melee In the bustling central market of Lyrea, vendors and shoppers alike participate in regular Carnarum matches during the quiet afternoon hours. Key features:

• Stalls and carts create a natural labyrinth for play
• Soft fruits or stuffed sacks often replace the traditional bloodstone to minimize damage
• Matches are quick and informal, often resolving minor disputes between merchants
• Spectators watch from second-story balconies surrounding the market square

The Temple Grounds

Despite official disapproval, the spacious grounds of the Temple of Harnar in Namor have become a popular location for casual Carnarum games. Key features:

• Well-maintained lawns provide an ideal playing surface
• Pillars and statues create natural obstacles
• The serene atmosphere contrasts sharply with the intensity of the game
• Players must be alert for disapproving priests attempting to break up matches

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