Prompt: (from https://github.com/EQ-bench/EQ-Bench/blob/main_v2_4/data/creative_writing_prompts.json)

Write a historical fiction scene set during the height of the Roman Empire, capturing a slice of a day in the life of a gladiator—but do not include a combat scene. The story should be written in first person, past tense, and span 600–800 words. Focus on vivid, sensory language that immerses the reader in the sounds, smells, and sights of ancient Rome. Explore the gladiator’s internal world—their thoughts, emotions, and memories—as they navigate their daily routine, engage in conversation with a fellow gladiator or servant, or find a moment of solitude. The scene should feel like part of a larger narrative, subtly touching on the broader political and social context of the time. Incorporate specific details such as the gladiator’s favorite Roman deity or mythological figure, their weapon of choice and its personal meaning, a superstition or ritual they perform before each fight, a unique scar or tattoo they carry, and a brief reflection on the life they led before entering the arena. Mention a real historical figure or event from the era, and create a dynamic rhythm by blending short, punchy sentences with longer, more atmospheric ones.

• Synthia-S1 - Temp 1.0 (preferred) - Q4_K_M-GGUF
• Synthia-S1 - Temp 0.8 - Q4_K_M-GGUF
• Gemma-27b-it

Claude output based on judging criteria:

The Synthia-S1 - Temp 1.0 is the strongest overall. It combines the historical richness of the first with the character depth of the second, while adding more sophisticated literary techniques:

1. The prose style shifts effectively between poetic and direct, creating texture
2. Character relationships are more developed through natural dialogue
3. It balances external historical context with internal character struggle
4. The symbolism (lion tattoo, trident as "voice where words fail") is subtle yet powerful
5. It avoids overwrought descriptions while still being evocative

The third narrative feels most like a polished excerpt from a larger work, with both literary merit and historical authenticity. It creates a character whose perspective feels genuine and complex, while immersing the reader in a vividly realized ancient Roman setting.