The Will of the Many

A vivid flashback haunts Vis Telimus, where he dangles over a precipice, held by his father's blood-slicked grip. His father whispers 'Courage' and lets go, a moment that deeply impacts Vis. Shaken by the memory, Vis returns to the present, where he is playing a strategic game called Foundation with Hrolf, an older guard at Letens Prison. Despite his distraction, Vis manages to win the game, showcasing his superior skills.

As the game ends, a well-dressed man named Sextus Hospius arrives unexpectedly, requesting access to the prison's lower levels to interview a prisoner named Nateo. Despite the irregularity of the visit, Hospius presents valid documentation from Proconsul Manius, and Vis volunteers to escort him, noticing Hrolf's sudden lapse in memory. On the way to the deep cells, Vis and Hospius discuss the conditions of the prisoners, who are bound to devices called Sappers, which drain their will and energy.

In the deep cells, Vis warns Hospius about the dangers of the Sappers and reluctantly releases Nateo from the device. Nateo, weakened and emaciated, recognizes Hospius, and they converse in Vetusian, an ancient language. Hospius seeks information about a man named Veridius and a mysterious gate, but Nateo is hesitant to share more without a promise of release. The conversation escalates when Nateo, in a fit of desperation, lunges at Hospius, nearly pulling him onto the Sapper. Vis intervenes, narrowly avoiding contact with the device himself.

After the incident, Hospius and Vis return to the guardroom. Hospius praises Vis's quick thinking and offers him a silver coin for his discretion. Vis, shaken by the near-miss with the Sapper, inspects his hands for any signs of harm. In the guardroom, Hrolf and Hospius briefly discuss Vis's capabilities, with Hrolf suggesting that Vis might be wasted in his current position. Vis overhears this and decides to leave, declining Hrolf's offer to stay longer, aware of the danger his true identity poses.

Vis Telimus navigates the twisted, muddy streets of Letens, a city where Catenan influence coexists uneasily with the remnants of the old world. Despite the presence of Hierarchy soldiers, the city retains a sense of the forbidden, with illegal activities like underground fighting still thriving. Reflecting on his reasons for stopping his flight from the Hierarchy—hunger and loneliness now alleviated by his current situation—Vis heads towards the center of Letens.

Upon arrival at a hidden venue, Vis meets Septimus Ellanher, a powerful and intimidating woman who runs illegal fighting bouts. Ellanher informs him that he will be facing a man of significantly higher rank and strength in the upcoming bout. Despite the danger, Vis negotiates for triple pay and accepts the challenge, understanding the implications of defying the Hierarchy. The tension is palpable as Vis prepares for the fight, aware that his survival depends on his wits and agility.

Before the fight, Vis encounters Gaufrid, an Octavii and the unofficial bookkeeper of the fights. Gaufrid warns Vis of the extreme danger of facing a man of higher rank and suggests backing out, but Vis is determined to proceed. Driven by both financial need and a desire to prove his worth, he places a high-stakes bet on lasting more than one minute in the ring. As the arena fills with spectators, Vis strips and greases his body to reduce the risk of being overpowered. The atmosphere is electric as the crowd anticipates the spectacle.

Surrounded by the bellowing crowd, Vis stands on the stage, feeling a mix of exhilaration and tension. The atmosphere is charged as he faces his opponent, a Sextus, whose green eyes turn black with the activation of his Will. Vis reflects on his reasons for fighting, acknowledging that it's not just for the coin or survival, but also for the freedom to be himself, unburdened by pretense.

Vis begins his mental countdown, carefully observing the stage and his opponent. He maintains a strategic distance, circling the Sextus to avoid immediate engagement. The crowd taunts both fighters, and the Sextus, trying to provoke Vis, starts to mock his past, questioning his parentage and suggesting that his parents abandoned him. Vis's composure falters, and he loses track of time, feeling the sting of the Sextus's words.

As the tension builds, Vis finally attacks, delivering a swift strike to the Sextus’s ribs. The fight intensifies, with the Sextus showing unexpected skill and resilience. Vis is hit and knocked to the ground, momentarily blinded and winded. However, he recovers and, driven by a cold fury, launches a series of powerful blows that stagger the Sextus. In a final, brutal exchange, Vis delivers a devastating uppercut and knee to the groin, followed by relentless strikes to the Sextus’s face, effectively winning the fight.

Despite his victory, Vis realizes he has lost his high-stakes bet on lasting more than a minute. Ellanher and others pull him off the unconscious Sextus, and he is carried away from the stage, feeling a mix of triumph and weariness. The crowd is stunned into silence, and Vis is left to ponder the consequences of his actions.

Still reeling from the emotional toll of his fight, Vis contemplates the depth of his anger and the wisdom his mother once imparted. He realizes how much his life has changed since the Hierarchy took control. Despite his victory, Ellanher's fabricated story that he cheated leads to his banishment from the fighting ring. The crowd's reaction is mixed, ranging from booing to eventual acceptance, thanks to Ellanher's convincing performance and the promise of honored bets.

Tension fills the air as Ellanher and Vis walk back to her office. Ellanher tries to persuade Vis to join the Victorum league, a less dangerous alternative, but Vis remains focused on his own plans and the need to avoid further scrutiny from the Hierarchy. After a brief, tense conversation, Ellanher leaves Vis alone, noting his intense expression during the fight.

Gaufrid visits Vis in Ellanher's office, returning the silver triangles from his lost bet. Gaufrid acknowledges the fairness of Vis's victory and the impressive duration of the fight, which lasted two minutes and thirty-seven seconds. This unexpected act of kindness boosts Vis's morale. Later, Vis returns to the orphanage, where Matron Atrox informs him of a potential adoption by a Quintus, a significant event that requires his assistance. Matron Atrox's unusual enthusiasm and the high-profile nature of the adoption suggest a possible promotion for her, adding pressure on Vis to avoid drawing attention to himself.

Vermes, a fifteen-year-old bully, rudely awakens Vis, informing him of an impending adoption at the orphanage. Still recovering from his recent fight, Vis reluctantly prepares for the day. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation, especially since the potential adopter is a Quintus, a rare and prestigious event. Matron Atrox, who has already arranged for the Quintus’s arrival, instructs Vis to get the children ready, emphasizing the importance of the occasion.

During the preparations, Vis reflects on the potential consequences of the adoption for the children and the orphanage. As the Quintus arrives, Vis, driven by a sudden realization, recognizes him as Sextus Hospius from the prison. He flees to the garden, grappling with the implications of Hospius’s presence. Weighing the risks of staying versus fleeing, Vis ultimately decides to stay and maintain his cover.

Summoned to the library by Matron Atrox, Vis confronts Hospius, who reveals himself as Quintus Ulciscor Telimus. Ulciscor questions Vis about his background and knowledge, probing deeper into his understanding of the Hierarchy and his resistance to ceding Will. Despite the tension, the conversation takes an unexpected turn, with Ulciscor showing genuine interest in Vis’s thoughts and insights, reminiscent of his past with his tutor, Iniguez.

Ulciscor’s interrogation reveals his theories about Vis’s resistance to the Sapper and his refusal to undergo the Aurora Columnae rituals. He offers Vis a deal, promising protection and opportunities in exchange for cooperation. Vis, though wary, agrees to listen, intrigued by the potential benefits. The chapter ends with Ulciscor’s decision to inform Matron Atrox of his positive assessment of Vis, setting the stage for a new phase in Vis’s life.

Ulciscor and Vis emerge from the library, where Ulciscor has decided to adopt Vis, much to the shock of Matron Atrox and the other children. Vermes, the bully, reacts with disdain and disbelief, questioning Vis's worth, but Ulciscor sternly rebukes him, highlighting Vermes's unpleasant nature and lack of intelligence. Vis, despite his dislike for Vermes, feels a pang of pity for the boy, recognizing the harsh truth in Ulciscor's words.

As the adoption is formalized, Matron Atrox reluctantly provides Vis with a leather bag containing his wages from the prison and Victorum, which she had been keeping for him. Vis, sensing the matron's fear, promises to return one day, a statement that visibly unnerves her. Ulciscor and Vis then leave the orphanage, heading towards the city outskirts.

On their way, they discuss the Transvect, a massive Will-powered transport that will take them to Deditia by morning. Vis is amazed by the technology, which Ulciscor explains in detail, revealing that a strong Quintus could theoretically power it alone. Once aboard the Transvect, Ulciscor reveals his full title as Magnus Quintus Telimus and a senator, much to Vis's surprise. He explains that Vis will need to present himself to the Senate in Caten to finalize the adoption.

Ulciscor then discloses that he is sending Vis to the Catenan Academy, a prestigious institution where students are not allowed to cede or receive Will. The Academy is under the purview of Religion, and Military suspects that something important is being hidden there. Ulciscor believes that Vis, who has never ceded Will, is the perfect candidate to investigate, despite the risks involved. As they discuss the details, the Transvect suddenly experiences an emergency stop, and the section in front of them explodes, signaling a dramatic turn of events.

The Transvect erupts in a catastrophic explosion, forcing Ulciscor and Vis to flee through an access hatch to a narrow stone pillar beneath the vehicle. Despite the intense heat and the threat of being consumed by the flames, Ulciscor remains remarkably calm and in control, guiding Vis through the chaos. Vis, though terrified, follows Ulciscor's lead, trusting his judgment in the face of imminent danger.

As the Transvect continues to hurtle toward the forest, Ulciscor decides they must jump to avoid being crushed by the trees. With a combination of Will and physical strength, Ulciscor leaps and twists, protecting Vis from the worst of the impact. They land hard, rolling and skidding to a stop in the damp forest floor. The explosion and subsequent crash have left the area in ruins, with burning debris scattered everywhere. Ulciscor, though injured, reassures Vis that they survived and begins to assess their situation.

Ulciscor deduces that the explosion was caused by a Will shell, likely planted by someone who wanted the Transvect to crash but remain somewhat intact. He suggests that they either attempt to repair the Transvect or walk to the nearest settlement. Despite his injuries, Ulciscor leads the way through the dense, stormy forest, using his Will to keep moving. They eventually spot the wreckage of the Transvect and cautiously approach, only to discover four men who claim to have been maintenance workers on board.

Ulciscor, suspicious of their claims, confronts them, but the situation quickly turns deadly when one of the men, Sacro, is shot in the head by an unseen assailant. Ulciscor, enraged and still weakened from the crash, is then struck by an arrow in the leg, causing him to collapse. The remaining three men, now terrified, debate whether to flee or investigate further. Vis, hiding in the brush, watches in horror as the situation deteriorates, unsure of what to do next.

Injured and desperate, Vis sprints through the mud to confront the remaining three attackers. Despite his pain, he quickly dispatches two of them and subdues the third, a man named Anguis, who reveals that they were part of a resistance group against the Hierarchy. The encounter leaves Vis conflicted, as he recalls the destructive aftermath of the Anguis resistance he witnessed in the past.

Just as Vis is assessing his injuries, a woman named Sedotia emerges from the shadows, pointing an arrow at him. She identifies him as Diago, a name he hasn't heard in three years, and reveals that she and the Anguis have been tracking him. Sedotia explains that the crash was orchestrated to intercept Vis, who is crucial to their plans. She insists that Vis is not ready to face the challenges at the Catenan Academy and urges him to join the Anguis for training. Vis, however, refuses, determined to stay with Ulciscor and fulfill his own goals.

Sedotia, growing increasingly frustrated, threatens to expose Vis's true identity to the Senate if he doesn't reconsider. She gives him a month to decide, warning that failure to comply will result in severe consequences. With the sounds of approaching Anguis growing louder, Vis drags the unconscious Ulciscor into the front cabin of the Transvect. Despite his injuries and lack of experience, he manages to activate the controls, causing the Transvect to rise and then move forward. Exhausted and bleeding, Vis collapses on the floor, hoping that his actions will ensure their escape.

Disoriented and in pain, Vis wakes up in the infirmary of the Catenan Academy. He overhears a conversation between two students, Emissa and Indol, who are curious about his arrival on the damaged Transvect. Pretending to just wake up, Vis joins their discussion, learning that he has been in the infirmary for half the night and that Ulciscor is fine and speaking with the Praeceptors. Emissa and Indol mention that Ulciscor has already discussed the attack with others, and rumors are circulating about Vis's role in the incident. Before they can delve deeper, another student, Belli, warns them that someone is coming. Emissa and Indol quickly leave, leaving Vis to reflect on the situation and the need to be cautious about his story.

Shortly after, a physician named Veridius enters the infirmary to check on Vis. Despite his initial reluctance to share details, Vis explains that the Transvect was attacked and that he and Ulciscor had to jump from the burning vehicle. He downplays his role in the fight, attributing his survival to luck and surprise. Veridius expresses admiration for Vis's bravery but notes the severity of his injuries, including a sword wound to his side. The conversation takes a more serious turn when Veridius inquires about the arrow that wounded Ulciscor. Vis claims he never saw the archer, but the physician finds this unusual. Just as the questioning becomes uncomfortable, Ulciscor arrives, looking composed and in control. He greets Veridius formally and approaches Vis, his demeanor suggesting a deeper concern.

Veridius, the Principalis of the Catenan Academy and an old acquaintance of Ulciscor, greets the two as they recover from their injuries. Veridius tends to Vis’s wounds while subtly probing for more details about the attack on the Transvect. Aware of the potential danger, Vis carefully avoids revealing too much, especially about the woman with the bow and the attackers.

As they prepare to leave the Academy, Ulciscor and Vis delve deeper into the attack. Ulciscor expresses concern about the arrow that incapacitated him and the possibility that the students or Veridius might have tampered with Vis’s water. He warns Vis to be cautious of everyone, including the students, and reveals that his brother, Caeror, died under mysterious circumstances at the Academy. Ulciscor emphasizes the danger and offers Vis a final chance to back out, but Vis remains committed to the mission.

Ulciscor provides Vis with information about two key sites on the island: a set of ruins being worked on by Religion and a restricted area around a natural arch. Both sites are believed to be significant and potentially connected to the Academy’s secrets. Ulciscor stresses the importance of investigating these sites but cautions that the Academy is closely monitored. The chapter concludes with a tense conversation about Ulciscor’s decision to kill a man, touching on the ethical implications of the Hierarchy’s laws and Vis’s growing unease with the mission.

Vis and Ulciscor travel on the Transvect across the Sea of Quus, heading towards Caten, the capital of Deditia. The city's grandeur and scale, with its sprawling mansions, towering temples, and bustling wharfs, overwhelm Vis, who feels a mix of awe and terror at the Hierarchy's power and enmity towards him.

As they approach Caten, Ulciscor and Vis discuss the city's population and the Catenan Arena, which can hold over a hundred thousand people. Ulciscor hints that Vis might get the chance to see the games during the Festival of Jovan, planting a seed for future plans. Ulciscor also reveals that they will be stopping in the Praedium District to transfer to a carriage headed to Sarcinia, where Vis will spend the next two months being tutored by Lanistia, a Sextus.

Upon arriving at the Sarcinian estate, Vis is greeted by the austere Lanistia, who is clearly displeased by the surprise of Vis's presence. Despite the tension, Ulciscor reassures Lanistia of his trust in her and emphasizes the importance of her role in Vis's training. The chapter concludes with Vis and Ulciscor entering the Villa Telimus, where Vis's rigorous tutelage and the challenges ahead await.

Vis follows Ulciscor and Lanistia along the gravel path to the grand three-story sandstone Villa Telimus. The tension between them is palpable as they discuss the suddenness of Vis's adoption and the absence of Ulciscor's wife, Relucia, who is currently abroad. Ulciscor reveals that Relucia will likely not return until after the Academy's second trimester, and he hopes to have found someone to put through the Academy, though he avoids discussing the reasons why.

Upon arriving at the villa, they are greeted by Kadmos, the Dispensator, who updates Ulciscor on the estate's minor issues. Kadmos is visibly confused by Vis's presence, and Ulciscor introduces Vis as his newly adopted son. Kadmos leads Vis to the guest quarters, providing him with a clean tunic and disabling the room's security. Vis, suspicious of the security measures, decides to investigate further by climbing out his window, despite his injuries.

Vis successfully descends the wall and eavesdrops on a conversation between Ulciscor and Lanistia. They discuss the attack on the Transvect, the involvement of the Anguis, and the recent murders of Sextii leaders. Ulciscor expresses confidence in Vis's authenticity and his potential value to their plans, while Lanistia remains skeptical and concerned about the risks. Their discussion reveals deeper layers of the conspiracy and the dangers Vis is being drawn into. However, Vis's eavesdropping is cut short when Kadmos discovers him outside, leading to a tense confrontation and a warning to stay indoors.

Lanistia abruptly awakens Vis, demanding that he start his lessons immediately. Despite his exhaustion and injuries, Vis follows her to a private office where she subjects him to a grueling three-hour examination of his knowledge and skills. Lanistia's approach is relentless, dissecting and challenging every answer Vis gives, leaving him mentally drained and questioning his readiness for the Academy.

After the intense session, Lanistia bluntly informs Vis that he is not prepared for the Academy and doubts Ulciscor's judgment in adopting him. She assigns him three challenging books to read thoroughly by the next day, emphasizing the urgency and importance of his improvement. Vis, despite his frustration and the physical pain from his injuries, resolves to read the books and prove himself.

Later, Kadmos checks on Vis’s wounds and explains that he will need to drink a special tea twice daily to manage the pain during training. Vis, though wary of the ingredients, agrees to the treatment. As night falls, Vis continues his reading, finding solace and engagement in the new knowledge. Just as he finishes the last book, Lanistia unexpectedly enters his room and physically assaults him, testing his recall under extreme pressure. Vis, though terrified and humiliated, manages to answer her questions correctly, earning her reluctant respect.

Lanistia and Vis share a lunch in the courtyard, where Lanistia unexpectedly compliments Vis on his fighting instincts. This is the first time she has offered any form of praise, and Vis is cautious, suspecting a follow-up punch. The conversation shifts to his past fights against Septimii and a Sextus, with Lanistia probing deeper into his motivations. Vis reveals that he fought for the money and because he enjoyed it, which seems to satisfy Lanistia's curiosity.

Later, Vis engages in a sparring session with Totius Octavus Conlis, a large and formidable opponent. Despite initial setbacks, Vis gains the upper hand, demonstrating his combat skills and strategic thinking. However, Lanistia interrupts the fight, praising Conlis and dismissing Vis with a critical assessment of his performance. She emphasizes the need for precision, speed, and endurance in the Academy, suggesting that Vis’s current level of skill is insufficient.

Feeling insulted and challenged, Vis confronts Lanistia, who proposes a one-on-one fight to prove his abilities. Lanistia, a Sextus, agrees to hold no more Will than Conlis and uses a twig as her weapon. Despite Vis’s determination and physical prowess, Lanistia easily outmaneuvers him, leaving him with painful welts on his face. The fight highlights the vast gap in their skills, and Vis is forced to concede, humiliated and angry.

Following the fight, Lanistia coolly assesses Vis’s performance, acknowledging that she is faster, better trained, and more disciplined. She advises Vis to clean himself up and prepare for further training to improve his skills. Vis, still embarrassed, washes his face in the courtyard fountain, reflecting on the harsh reality of his inadequacies and the path ahead.

Vis and Lanistia descend into a hidden, Will-locked basement beneath the eastern wing of the villa, where they encounter a vast, labyrinthine training area. Lanistia explains that the Labyrinth is a replica of a training device used at the Academy, designed to test a student's ability to handle Will. The Labyrinth consists of a complex network of stone walls that can be manipulated using a bracer equipped with onyx studs, each controlling a specific section of the maze.

Lanistia demonstrates the bracer's functionality, showing Vis how to move and reorient the stone panels. Eager to learn, Vis attempts to manipulate a wall but misjudges the movement, causing the onyx stud to shatter and cutting his finger. Lanistia, though initially harsh, helps him tend to the wound, and a rare moment of mutual respect forms between them. They discuss the importance of the Labyrinth contests at the Academy, which test a student's memory, logic, speed, precision, and physical strength.

After their session, they return to the villa, where they encounter Kadmos, who has been tasked with preparing Vis’s new clothing. Lanistia reveals that the Labyrinth is a closely guarded secret, built slowly and discreetly to give Vis a competitive advantage. Despite the meticulous construction, Vis struggles with the bracer's precise requirements, often causing panels to collide and break. Lanistia offers to explain the Labyrinth's mechanics once Vis masters it, and they continue practicing, with Vis making incremental progress.

Vis wakes up early, expecting Lanistia's usual prodding, but finds the room empty. Concerned, he ventures out and encounters Kadmos, who informs him that Sextus Scipio has requested his presence at the baths. At the baths, Vis meets Advenius, a senator from Governance, who has come to meet the new Telimus. Advenius is curious about Vis's background and the recent events involving the Transvect attack.

Advenius probes Vis about his past, his education, and his relationship with Ulciscor. Vis carefully recounts a fabricated story of his privileged upbringing in Aquiria, the tragic loss of his parents, and his subsequent adoption by Ulciscor. Advenius also mentions Ulciscor's brother, Caeror, and his supposed suicide, hinting at a deeper, undisclosed history. Vis senses that Advenius is trying to gather information and possibly undermine Ulciscor's position.

Advenius then suggests that Vis train with his daughter, Aequa, who is currently at the Academy. Vis agrees, but proposes a visit to Caten for the Festival of Jovan to get to know Aequa better. Advenius readily agrees, seeing it as an opportunity to further his own agenda. Vis realizes that this arrangement could complicate his training and the secrecy of the Labyrinth, but he sees a chance to use Advenius's interest to his advantage.

In the pre-dawn light, Vis and Lanistia spar, with Lanistia effortlessly countering his attacks. The cool air and the quiet of the estate provide a stark contrast to the intensity of their training. Lanistia, using her unique vision, can predict Vis’s movements, making it difficult for him to land a blow. As they take a break, the conversation turns to Advenius’s visit and his suspicions about Ulciscor’s involvement with the Anguis.

Lanistia reveals that Advenius and Ulciscor have a long-standing rivalry, rooted in a scandal involving Advenius’s sister. Advenius was once a contender for the position of Censor but was dropped from consideration due to the scandal, which he believes Ulciscor had a hand in. Vis, aware of the potential risks, defends his decision to involve Aequa in his training, arguing that her recent experience at the Academy could be beneficial. Lanistia remains skeptical, warning that the risks may outweigh the benefits.

The conversation shifts to the mysterious circumstances surrounding Caeror’s death. Advenius suggested that Caeror’s death was a suicide, but Lanistia adamantly denies this, confirming that Veridius was responsible and that the details are not important. Vis presses her for more information, but Lanistia becomes visibly agitated and ends the discussion abruptly. She informs Vis that his presentation to the Senate is scheduled for after the Festival of Jovan, and that he will meet Aequa during the festival. The chapter ends with Vis reflecting on the upcoming trip to Caten and the weight of the responsibilities that await him.

Vis travels in a carriage to Caten, accompanied by a protective entourage of Septimii. The journey is tense, and Vis is aware of the need to maintain a low profile and appear unassuming to Aequa. Upon arriving at Villa Claudius, Vis is greeted by Aequa, who is initially polite but quickly reveals her disinterest in the naumachia and her skepticism about Vis's background. As they travel to Caten, Aequa quizzes Vis about his preparation for the Academy, and Vis deliberately underplays his abilities to avoid arousing suspicion. Aequa, though initially condescending, begins to recognize Vis's genuine knowledge and competence. The conversation shifts to the controversial death of Caeror Telimus, Ulciscor's brother, who allegedly committed suicide during the Academy Iudicium. Aequa reveals that Ulciscor spent months trying to prove that Principalis Veridius was lying about the incident, causing a public rift. Vis is disturbed by this information, realizing that his presence at the Academy will likely be met with suspicion and hostility. As they approach Caten, the city's grand architecture, festive decorations, and throngs of people overwhelm Vis. Despite the chaos, he remains focused on his mission. Aequa, despite her earlier dismissive attitude, shares more about the legend surrounding Caeror's death and the honor bestowed upon Veridius for his heroic rescue. The chapter ends with Vis and Aequa arriving at the Arena, where the naumachia is about to begin.

Vis and Aequa arrive at the Catenan Arena, where the naumachia is about to begin. Overwhelmed by the grandeur and scale of the event, Vis is struck by the enormous lake, the ships, and the throngs of excited spectators. Aequa, unperturbed, explains the mechanics of the naumachia, including the use of Conditionally imbued armour to prevent fatalities, though she admits that some fighters will still suffer shameful ends or be sent to the Sappers.

Feeling exposed and vulnerable, Vis decides to wander away from their seats to give the Anguis an opportunity to contact him. Navigating the crowded arena, he reflects on the moral implications of the naumachia and the Hierarchy's use of Will. After a few minutes, Sedotia approaches him, leading him through hidden passages and down into the sewers beneath the city. There, they meet Estevan, who is revealed to be Melior, one of Vis's father's trusted advisors from Suus.

Estevan explains that he joined the Anguis after escaping Suus and needs Vis to become a Domitor at the Academy and eventually secure a position in Caten, either in Religion or Governance. Vis, however, refuses, citing his experiences with the Anguis's violent methods and the negative impact they have on the people. He recounts a story about a village in Tensia that helped him, only to be later raided by the Anguis, leading to the villagers' suffering and eventual alignment with the Hierarchy. Estevan, understanding but not dissuaded, shares a theory about the Hierarchy's motives for attacking Suus, suggesting that they feared the knowledge the royal family possessed.

Before leaving, Sedotia draws Vis's blood with a stylus, claiming it is for protection. She warns him not to lose the stylus under any circumstances. Confused and angry, Vis returns to his seat just as the naumachia is about to begin. Aequa, though annoyed by his extended absence, is not suspicious, and the chapter ends with the crowd falling silent as the battle reenactment commences.

Vis and Aequa attend the naumachia, a staged naval battle in the Catenan Arena. Vis is repulsed by the choreographed violence and death, a stark contrast to the real seamanship and courage he has witnessed. The combatants, mostly imprisoned Octavii, fight for their lives and a chance to avoid the Sappers, while the crowd revels in the bloodshed. Aequa, despite her privileged background, shares Vis's distaste for the event.

Midway through the naumachia, the water begins to churn, and stone paths emerge from the lake, tilting the ships and causing chaos. The crowd assumes it's part of the show, but Vis, recalling his conversation with Estevan, suspects otherwise. Suddenly, a deep, resonant voice announces that the speaker is Arturus Melior Leos, the leader of the Anguis. He denounces the Hierarchy and the crowd for their complicity in creating a corrupt society. Despite the presence of Praetorians and higher-ranked Will users, no one can use Will to stop him, and the arena falls eerily silent.

Estevan addresses the naumachiarii, offering them a way out and urging them to join the Anguis. As the crowd begins to panic, Estevan demonstrates his power by causing sections of the stands to explode, killing thousands. The panic escalates, and people start fleeing, trampling each other in the process. Aequa and Vis, realizing the danger, decide to find a way out through the sewers. They navigate the gruesome aftermath of Estevan's attacks, with Aequa struggling to maintain her composure.

In the sewers, Aequa and Vis encounter the rushing water and the darkness, which adds to their fear. Another of Estevan's attacks causes the water level to rise, and they struggle to maintain their balance. Driven by a sense of duty and the memory of his father's teachings, Vis decides to return to the arena to confront Estevan. Aequa, though terrified, respects his decision, and they part ways. Aequa continues to find safety, while Vis plunges back into the chaos to stop the massacre.

Still reeling from the chaos of the naumachia, Vis fights through the rising water in the sewers, battling the current and his own fear. The water rises rapidly, and he slips several times but manages to catch himself against the slick stone walls. Finally, he emerges from the sewers, gasping for air, and rips off his sodden toga, rescuing the stylus from its folds. The stone sliver feels warm against his hand, a sign of the power it holds.

Climbing back into the main stadium, Vis finds the screams fewer and more sporadic. The lake is draining, and the jagged pathways Estevan created are now visible, adorned with the wreckage of ships and the bodies of the dead. Flames still burn, casting a dim, eerie light. The stands are eerily empty; whole sections are devoid of people, and the remaining spectators huddle in fear. He makes his way to the jetty where Estevan sits, cross-legged and calm, in the center of the Arena.

As Vis approaches, he notices a strange distortion in the air around Estevan, a visual warping that makes him seem to phase in and out of existence. The stylus in his hand grows hotter, almost burning his skin. Despite his fear, Vis presses forward, driven by a sense of duty. He reaches the jetty and, in a desperate move, grabs Estevan, pressing the stylus to his neck. As soon as he touches Estevan, they are momentarily transported to a surreal, apocalyptic landscape filled with pain and terror. The sky is a swirling mass of dark clouds, and the ground is cracked and barren, as if the world itself is dying. When they return, Vis is left breathless and shaken, but he demands that Estevan stop his destruction.

Estevan, calm and resigned, tells Vis that they are what the Hierarchy makes them, and that silence and inaction are forms of complicity. Vis pleads with Estevan to find a better way, offering to help the Anguis if he stops. Estevan, however, believes that there is no standing apart from the tyranny of the Hierarchy. In a final, tragic gesture, Estevan turns the stylus on himself, driving it through his neck and into his brain, ending his own life and the immediate threat.

Disoriented and sore, Vis wakes up in his bed at Ulciscor's villa, having been unconscious for nearly a week following the naumachia. Kadmos, the Dispensator, greets him with unexpected warmth, informing him that he has been recovering from the events at the Arena. Ulciscor arrives shortly after, expressing relief and pride in Vis's actions, which saved thousands of lives and earned him the title of Vis Telimus Catenicus from the Senate.

Ulciscor explains the aftermath of the attack, detailing the chaos and infrastructure failures that ensued. He also reveals that the Senate has suspended its sessions and imposed restrictions on large gatherings in Caten. Despite the accolades, Vis is concerned about the remaining Anguis members, particularly Sedotia, and the potential threats they pose. Ulciscor assures him that extra protection has been arranged for the villa and the Academy, though he acknowledges that increased security will make Vis's mission more challenging.

During their conversation, Vis raises the topic of Ulciscor's brother, Caeror, and the conflicting accounts of his death. Ulciscor, visibly moved, shares his personal memories and the coded messages he received from Caeror, which suggest that Caeror and Veridius discovered something significant at the Academy. He reveals that the girl Caeror was with, Lanistia, lost her memory and sight, and that Veridius's account of Caeror's suicide was likely a cover-up to protect the Academy. Ulciscor's belief in Veridius's involvement deepens, and he emphasizes the importance of Vis's mission to uncover the truth.

Lanistia's rough shaking rouses Vis from his groggy state, and he feels much better after a week of unconsciousness. They engage in a sparring session, which starts gently but quickly intensifies. A newfound understanding and mutual respect emerge between them, reflecting a shared purpose.

Their training is abruptly interrupted by the arrival of a carriage carrying Sextus Gaius Valerius, who claims to be there on the Senate's authority to examine Vis. Despite Lanistia's skepticism and insistence that Kadmos has already cleared Vis, Gaius presents a blank authorization tile that proves genuine. Reluctantly, Vis and Lanistia comply, and Gaius proceeds with a thorough and invasive examination, collecting various biological samples and asking detailed questions about the naumachia and Vis's encounter with Estevan.

Gaius's questioning is relentless, and he shows particular interest in a set of sketches, especially one depicting a black pyramid. Vis recognizes the image but downplays its significance, claiming it might be from a book. Gaius remains unconvinced but leaves, instructing Vis to contact Tertius Servius if he remembers anything more. After the encounter, Lanistia suggests Vis talk to Kadmos, hinting at the Dispensator's extensive medical knowledge and background. The chapter concludes with Lanistia questioning Vis's motivations for returning to the naumachia, suggesting that his actions were unusual and possibly self-destructive.

On a muggy summer morning, Vis meets Kadmos, the Dispensator, to thank him for his care during his unconscious state. Kadmos, visibly tired from the sleepless nights spent ensuring Vis's recovery, is deeply offended when Vis mentions the visit of another physician, Gaius, who collected samples and asked detailed questions about the naumachia. Kadmos insists that such actions serve no useful purpose and that no one can glean meaningful information from dead skin and dried blood.

As they talk, Kadmos shares his past, including his brief tenure as the head of the Azriat Institute and his subsequent proscription and imprisonment. He reveals his philosophy of accepting his fate and focusing on the present, showing Vis the scars on his back from refusing the Aurora Columnae. Kadmos's story serves as a poignant reminder of the choices and sacrifices one must make in the face of oppression.

The next two weeks pass in a blur of rigorous training and preparation for the Academy. Vis's anxiety over potential Anguis retaliation remains unfounded, and Lanistia speculates that the organization is in disarray following Estevan's death. Despite his nightmares from the naumachia, Vis's days are so demanding that he rarely has time to dwell on them. On the morning of his departure for the Academy, Lanistia informs Vis that Ulciscor has arranged for him to travel to the Necropolis for the Festival of the Ancestors and provides information about the students he met after the Transvect attack, suggesting they are unlikely to have harmed him.

Lanistia and Vis share a rare moment of mutual respect as they walk back to the villa, with Lanistia begrudgingly acknowledging Vis's potential to succeed at the Academy. Vis leaves the villa, feeling a sense of loss despite the lack of genuine affection. The chapter ends with Vis boarding a carriage, anxious about the challenges that await him at the Academy.

Still reeling from the naumachia, Vis recalls a childhood memory of giving a speech at Suus, where his father advised him to face his fears head-on. This memory fortifies him as he boards the Transvect to Solivagus, the island housing the Catenan Academy. Despite his anxiety, Vis remains focused on his mission, understanding the gravity of this moment and the need for perfection.

Upon arrival, Vis is greeted by Ulnius, the Academy physician, who introduces himself and expresses gratitude for Vis's role in saving his sister during the naumachia. Ulnius reassures Vis about the dangers of the alupi, which typically avoid the area. As they walk through the Academy, Principalis Veridius welcomes Vis warmly, speaking candidly about his past with Ulciscor's family and assuring Vis of fair treatment.

During their conversation, Veridius suggests placing Vis in a higher class due to his new status, but Vis insists on starting in Class Seven to prove himself. Veridius agrees and offers a tour of the Academy, explaining its class structure. They encounter Callidus, a Seventh, who is tasked with showing Vis around. As they head to the mess hall, Callidus recognizes Vis as the hero of the naumachia, and the news spreads quickly among the students.

In the mess hall, Vis and Callidus are confronted by Eidhin, a Sixth, who accuses Callidus of disloyalty. Despite Callidus's efforts to de-escalate the situation, Eidhin attacks Vis. Driven by a mix of self-defense and pent-up frustration, Vis retaliates and severely injures Eidhin. The hall erupts in shock, and Praeceptor Nequias arrives to address the incident. Despite the support of Emissa and Indol, Nequias orders Vis to follow him, foreshadowing potential consequences.

Nervousness grips Vis as he awaits judgment for his altercation with Eidhin, a familiar sensation from his childhood at Suus. Seated in a side room near the mess hall, he contemplates the gravity of his actions. Praeceptor Taedia, who teaches Class Five, enters and discusses the incident, expressing concern about the potential consequences of Vis striking a Sixth publicly. She advises him to swallow his pride to avoid expulsion.

Principalis Veridius, accompanied by Nequias and a Third, Iro, arrives to hear Vis’s side of the story. Despite Nequias’s interruptions and Iro’s biased testimony, Veridius listens to Vis’s account and calls Eidhin in for further clarification. Vis apologizes sincerely to Eidhin, extending his hand in a Threefold Apology, which Eidhin reluctantly accepts. Veridius, recognizing the formality, decides to set a penance for Vis but allows Eidhin to drop any further pursuit of the matter.

Following the meeting, Taedia confides in Vis that Eidhin is not well-liked and that his actions might have been provoked by someone else. She warns Vis to stay clear of Iro Decimus, a Third whose father is a powerful figure in Religion. In the dormitory, Vis finds Callidus injured and learns that his intervention did not help Callidus. Drusus Corani, a Seventh, attempts to rally support against Callidus, but Vis stands up for Callidus, challenging the group’s prejudice. This earns him their animosity, and he reflects on the similarities between this situation and his past in Letens.

Vis wakes up disoriented in the dormitory of the Catenan Academy, feeling a mix of anxiety and urgency. He quickly prepares for the day, reflecting on his strict training with Lanistia. Outside, Aequa is waiting for him to discuss the naumachia. Despite his initial discomfort, Vis provides a plausible explanation for his actions, emphasizing his familiarity with danger and his sense of duty. Aequa, though still suspicious, seems to accept his explanation and thanks him for his help, though she warns him about the social dynamics at the Academy, particularly the class rankings.

During breakfast, Vis is isolated and receives cold looks from his classmates, including a hostile glare from Iro. He observes the Praeceptors and students, noting the tense atmosphere. In class, Praeceptor Ferrea introduces Vis to Class Seven, where he quickly demonstrates his advanced knowledge of Will principles, impressing Ferrea and drawing attention from the other students. Callidus, his new ally, warns him about the potential consequences of his show of knowledge, but Vis is determined to move up in class ranks.

After lunch, Ferrea administers a test to the class, giving Vis a separate, more advanced set of questions. Vis completes his test with precision and speed, further solidifying Ferrea's impression of his exceptional abilities. Callidus, who also appears to be more knowledgeable than his class suggests, shares a moment of camaraderie with Vis, discussing the naumachia and the political tensions at the Academy. Ferrea assigns Vis to the stables as punishment, and he reflects on the upcoming Festival of the Ancestors and the potential to explore the ruins Ulciscor mentioned.

Vis arrives at the stables for his assigned punishment, his mind preoccupied with the isolation and the looming eastern wall that separates the Academy from the rest of Solivagus. The wall, with its promise of hidden ruins, tempts him, but he decides to bide his time and focus on settling in for the first few weeks. Septimus Ascenia, the brusque and demanding stable mistress, assigns him the task of mucking out the stalls, insisting on perfection in his work.

While working, Vis is joined by Emissa, a Third, who is serving her own penance. They chat amiably, and Emissa offers insights into the Academy's social dynamics, warning Vis about the repercussions of his altercation with Eidhin and the rumors spread by Iro. Her presence lightens the burden of his task, and they bond over their shared experiences and the challenges of the Academy.

Emissa reveals that the social barriers at the Academy are more relaxed when the Praeceptors aren't watching, and she explains the difficulties of advancing through the classes, especially under the biased eye of Praeceptor Dultatis. Vis feels a deepening connection with Emissa, yet he remains wary, remembering his parents' warnings about the dangers of unchecked attraction. The conversation ends with Emissa revealing that her penance was self-imposed, and she departs to study, leaving Vis with a sense of warmth and a hint of disappointment.

Vis reports back to Ferrea, who congratulates him on his rapid advancement to Class Six and informs him that he will be moving to Room Nine. Despite his initial concerns about the consequences of his actions, Vis is relieved and encouraged by this unexpected turn of events, setting the stage for his continued journey at the Academy.

In the dimly lit room, Vis wakes to find Eidhin, shirtless and muttering, working at a desk. Vis dresses quickly, feeling a mix of curiosity and unease. He plans a morning run before breakfast, buoyed by his rapid advancement to Class Six in just two days. During his run, Vis reflects on his goal of reaching Class Three by the end of the year. Encountering Callidus on his way to the mess hall, Vis joins him, but Callidus advises him to sit with the other Sixths to avoid further alienation. Reluctantly, Vis agrees and joins the group at their table. However, the Sixths, including Ianix and a dark-haired girl, react coldly, clearly more afraid of appearing disloyal to Eidhin and Iro than genuinely disliking Vis. Feeling isolated, Vis returns to Callidus’s table, where they share a light-hearted conversation, easing his embarrassment. The chapter ends with Vis determined to make the Sixths pay attention to him, regardless of their initial rejection.

The next six weeks at the Catenan Academy are among the most frustrating Vis can remember. Despite the classwork and physical tasks being relatively easy for him, Praeceptor Dultatis consistently ignores or derides his contributions, fostering a hostile environment. Vis feels isolated and disregarded by the other Sixths, who are influenced by Dultatis's disdain and Iro's lingering influence.

Vis finds solace in his routine of pre-dawn sparring and spending time with Callidus, whose company he increasingly values. Callidus is intelligent and witty, and Vis suspects there's more to his story than being a Seventh. Emissa also helps Vis with his chores in the stables, and he enjoys her company, though the warmth he feels for her fades by morning. Despite these moments of camaraderie, Vis feels stuck and without options.

Halfway through his second month, Vis's frustration boils over when Dultatis announces that the class will run the Labyrinth over the next two days. Familiar with the Labyrinth from his training with Lanistia, Vis is eager to measure himself against the other students. However, Dultatis's obvious enmity toward him continues, and Vis is paired with Eidhin, a large and unfriendly boy. The class is surprised by Principalis Veridius's presence, and Dultatis's irritation is palpable. The Labyrinth contest begins with Ianix and Leridia, who are quickly caught despite their communication skills.

When it's Vis's turn, he is surprised to be called as the lowest-ranked student, a designation that stings. Eidhin, his partner, shows no interest in working together, and the contest begins. Vis runs through the Labyrinth, relying on his intimate knowledge of its layout and Eidhin's occasional manipulations. Despite a few close calls, Vis manages to outlast the other runners, but he is ultimately cornered by Stult and Tanila, ending his run. The class's reaction is mixed, but Veridius's thoughtful nod suggests he sees potential in Vis.

Frustrated and determined, Vis and Eidhin enter the Labyrinth contest. Vis uses the control bracer to manipulate the maze, initially letting Eidhin run alone before taking charge and directing him with Cymrian. Their effective teamwork surprises the class, and Vis feels a surge of satisfaction as they outmaneuver the hunters. However, their success is short-lived when Dultatis disqualifies them for using a foreign language, deeming it an unfair advantage. Vis and Eidhin argue that it was a form of code, but Dultatis remains unyielding. Veridius, however, nods in approval of their performance while acknowledging the disqualification. Vis is left feeling frustrated and resentful, weighed down by Dultatis’s bias.

Later, Veridius approaches Vis and explains the long-standing grudge against the Telimus name, rooted in the ramifications of Ulciscor’s brother’s death. He advises Vis to overcome these obstacles on his own, emphasizing that the Academy mirrors real-world challenges. Veridius also hints that the Labyrinth is often empty in the mornings, suggesting a way for Vis to practice privately.

Still reeling from the disqualification in the Labyrinth contest, Vis and Callidus sit together at their usual table in the mess hall. Vis recounts the event, and Callidus expresses surprise and admiration, noting that Vis’s achievement has not gone unnoticed by the other Sixths, who keep peeking at them. The conversation shifts to Eidhin, with Callidus sharing rumors about Eidhin’s dark past, including his family’s suicide and his capture by the Fifth Legion.

Callidus’s insights lead to a broader discussion about the unfairness of the Academy’s system and the Hierarchy in general. Drawing on his father’s access to census data, Callidus explains the skewed distribution of ranks within the Hierarchy and the Academy’s controlled intake, which ensures that positions are allocated based on existing power structures rather than merit. Intrigued and disturbed by this revelation, Vis feels a growing resolve to find a way to advance beyond Dultatis’s bias.

The conversation deepens Vis’s trust in Callidus, and he feels a genuine connection with the other boy, despite the necessity of maintaining his cover. After the meal, Vis spends the afternoon in the Labyrinth, mentally preparing for his planned nighttime excursion to the ruins. Driven by the need to uncover something significant for Ulciscor before the Festival of the Ancestors, he decides to use equipment from the stables to scale the wall and explore the area.

Driven by the need to uncover something significant for Ulciscor before the Festival of the Ancestors, Vis decides to sneak out of the Academy at night. He carefully avoids detection by his roommates and the Academy's guards, using his skills to scale the wall and venture into the forest. Despite the risks, Vis is determined to find answers and prove his worth to Ulciscor.

In the forest, Vis follows a path that leads him to the ruins, where he discovers a domed building surrounded by bright lanterns. He cautiously approaches the building and finds a steel door adorned with strange symbols. Pushing the door open, he enters a large chamber with a circular arrangement of marble columns and tools. In the center, a rope leads down into a tunnel lit by glowing green writing carved into the walls. Vis descends the rope and explores the tunnel, which is filled with intricate diagrams and unknown writings.

Further down the tunnel, Vis discovers a vast hall with hundreds of green-lit cavities, each containing a corpse impaled by an obsidian blade. The bodies appear recently deceased, and the walls are covered with warnings in Vetusian, repeating the phrase 'Obiteum is lost. Do not open the gate. Synchronous is death.' As Vis observes, the bodies' eyes open, and they begin to whisper the same message, terrifying him. He flees back to the surface, narrowly avoiding detection by Veridius and a man named Marcus, who are investigating the disturbance.

Vis, skilled in deception, stages a convincing accident during breakfast, tripping and cutting his hand on a knife. The incident draws attention from his classmates and Praeceptor Ferrea, who sends him to the infirmary. Ulnius, the Academy physician, meticulously cleans the wound, his brow furrowed with concern. 'Be more careful, Vis,' he warns, his voice low. 'Principalis Veridius has been asking about unusual injuries among the students.'

As Vis leaves the infirmary, his mind races with thoughts of his position at the Academy and the challenges that lie ahead. He returns to the mess hall, where Callidus teases him about the accident. Emissa and Belli, both Thirds, approach the table, and Emissa engages Vis in a conversation about his performance in the Labyrinth. Despite Belli's skepticism, Emissa expresses genuine interest in Vis's abilities and the rumors swirling around him.

The conversation shifts to the political tensions in Caten, with Callidus explaining the growing conflict between Military, Governance, and Religion. He reveals that his father, a powerful figure in Governance, has strategically placed him in Class Seven to avoid potential complications in case of a civil war. Vis and Callidus share a moment of mutual understanding and respect, acknowledging the complex challenges they both face.

Still reeling from the events of the previous day, Vis reflects on his father's hatred of lies, feeling conflicted about his own deceptions. He and Eidhin stand together at a balcony, watching a disastrous Labyrinth run. Eidhin casually asks if Vis killed someone, and Vis, startled, explains that the blood from the previous night was his own, from a self-inflicted cut while climbing the wall. Eidhin seems indifferent but covers for Vis, suggesting a reluctant alliance.

The conversation turns to the Cymrian language, and Eidhin reveals a wistful side, appreciating Vis's fluency. When Vis mentions his Cymrian tutor, Eidhin's mood darkens, and he abruptly ends the discussion. Vis shares his discovery of the strange ruins east of the Academy, including the glowing writing and impaled bodies, and explains his mission to investigate for Military. Eidhin listens intently and agrees to keep the secret, in exchange for Vis teaching him Cymrian.

Dultatis overhears their conversation and demands a translation. Eidhin and Vis mock the Praeceptor in Cymrian, translating their insults into innocuous statements. Dultatis, unable to prove their deceit, storms off. Eidhin and Vis share a moment of mutual respect, and Eidhin agrees to start learning Cymrian after Vis’s punishment ends. Vis finds a glimmer of hope in the day’s events, recognizing the value of a tentative ally.

The first day of the Festival of the Ancestors dawns stormy, with a westerly sea breeze whipping rain through the mess hall. Vis is surprised to see Callidus, who informs him that he won't be attending the festival due to instructions from his father. Callidus seems disappointed but accepts the situation, explaining that his father is making his sacrifice seem real to ensure his safety. Vis feels for Callidus but knows better than to push the issue.

Principalis Veridius joins them at the table, inquiring about Vis's healing hand and assuring him that security will be tight for the trip to the Necropolis. Veridius also mentions the importance of remembering Caeror and the dangers of letting grief turn to bitterness. His words carry a deeper meaning, hinting at unresolved tensions between him and Ulciscor. After Veridius leaves, Callidus and Vis discuss the Principalis’s character, with Callidus noting that Veridius doesn’t seem the type to be involved in any deceit.

On the Transvect to the Necropolis, Aequa, Emissa, and Indol join Vis. Aequa reveals that Iro’s sister died during the naumachia, explaining his hostility towards Vis. The group discusses the challenges of dealing with Dultatis’s bias and the political dynamics at the Academy. Vis is surprised by Aequa’s presence and wonders about her motives, but the conversation lightens as they share stories and jokes. As the Transvect approaches Agerus, the group is awed by the vast fields of tombstones and the imposing Necropolis, a place of both beauty and solemnity.

Upon arrival, the platform is unusually crowded, and Vis feels a growing sense of unease. A large man pushes through the crowd, grabbing Vis’s arm in a fierce Catenan embrace. The man’s abrupt action and the crowd’s reaction suggest that Vis’s presence is significant and potentially dangerous.

Swarmed by an enthusiastic crowd at the Necropolis, Vis struggles to keep up with the attention. Scitus, a Praeceptor, helps clear a path, and Vis is separated from his friends. Ulciscor arrives shortly after, greeting Vis warmly and discussing the unexpected crowd and the Telimus family's popularity. Ulciscor explains that Vis's heroic actions and mysterious background have made him a symbol of hope for many people, both patricians and commoners alike.

Climbing the mountain to the Telimus tomb, a grand and well-preserved crypt, Ulciscor and Vis find the body of Ulciscor's uncle in a Vitaerium, a device that preserves the body with Will. Lanistia, surprisingly present, explains the function of the Vitaerium. Ulciscor and Lanistia interrogate Vis about his time at the Academy, focusing on his lack of advancement and his excursion to the ruins. Vis describes the strange and disturbing findings, including the bodies impaled with obsidian and the glowing writing. Both Ulciscor and Lanistia are impressed and concerned, recognizing the significance of the discovery.

Ulciscor agrees to help Vis by creating an imbued grapple, a tool that will allow him to scale the wall and return to the ruins more safely. He warns Vis of the risks and the need for secrecy. After the meeting, Vis finds Lanistia sitting on a rock, and she shares her personal struggles with losing her sight. She emphasizes the importance of Vis improving his performance at the Academy, revealing that Ulciscor was considering not sending him back if he hadn't made the discovery. Vis is shocked and determined to do better. The chapter ends with the arrival of Ulciscor's parents and a surprising revelation: Sedotia, the woman from the Anguis, is introduced as Ulciscor's wife.

Tension simmers as Vis meets Ulciscor's family at the Necropolis. He is formally introduced to his grandparents, Lerius and Milena, and is shocked to discover that Sedotia, the woman from the Anguis, is now known as Relucia and is Ulciscor's wife. Relucia greets Vis with an over-the-top, affectionate welcome, masking his initial shock and panic. The ceremony for Caeror is conducted by Lerius, and the family shares memories of Caeror, with Ulciscor and Lanistia reminiscing fondly about his pranks and quirks. Milena remains quiet and distant, occasionally whispering to Lanistia.

After the ceremony, Relucia takes Vis for a walk. She reveals that the Anguis still intends to use him, explaining that they are not planning to kill him despite his actions during the naumachia and the attack on the Transvect. Instead, they want him to continue his path at the Academy and occasionally follow their instructions. Relucia offers a compromise, suggesting that if Vis becomes a Domitor and joins the embassy at Jatiere, they will allow him a few years there before further involvement. Vis is taken aback but sees this as a temporary truce.

Relucia provides more details about the Anguis's plans, explaining that they are watching for a shift in the balance of power between Military, Religion, and Governance. She reveals that they have been monitoring Vis for over a year, starting when he was fighting in the Victorum league. She also explains the reasons behind the attack on the Transvect, emphasizing the need to assess Vis's state of mind before he met Ulciscor. Relucia warns Vis that only one other person in the Anguis knows his identity, and that person will die before revealing it. Vis is left with a mix of anger and uncertainty, but he agrees to the terms for now.

Tension is high as Vis and Relucia overhear a heated argument between Ulciscor, Lerius, and Lanistia in the Telimus tomb. The disagreement centers around Ulciscor's continued pursuit of the truth behind Caeror's death, with Lerius and Lanistia urging him to let it go. Milena, visibly upset, pleads for them to stop, emphasizing that nothing can bring Caeror back. Relucia and Vis enter the main area, feigning ignorance of the argument, and the atmosphere gradually eases as Relucia engages everyone with her lively conversation.

Ulciscor excuses himself during the gathering, and Vis is mildly concerned about the rushed nature of the equipment he needs. However, Ulciscor returns and, after some time, signals Vis to leave early, citing studies as the reason. Relucia, though disappointed, warmly bids Vis farewell, giving him a gentle reminder of her expectations. Lerius and Milena also bid him farewell, with Lerius showing more warmth than Milena, who remains polite but distant.

Outside the tomb, Lanistia questions Ulciscor about the early departure, and he explains that Vis needs to go to the other side of Solivagus. Ulciscor and Vis begin their descent, and Ulciscor reveals that he has made a grapple for Vis to use. He warns Vis about the dangers of the grapple and the timing required to use it safely. Ulciscor also gives Vis a locator to help him return to the Transvect, emphasizing the importance of not jumping too early.

As they wait for the Transvect, Ulciscor and Vis chat about inconsequential matters, but Ulciscor seems deep in thought, likely reflecting on his brother. When the Transvect arrives, Vis steps inside and hides the grapple and extra clothing. Ulciscor distracts the Praetorian, and Vis makes his way to the back of the Transvect, extinguishing the lamps to avoid detection. As the Transvect lurches into motion, Vis braces himself, feeling the adrenaline and fear of the dangerous task ahead.

Vis successfully jumps from the Transvect and lands safely in the Sea of Quus, inside the protective barrier around Solivagus. Cold and fatigued, he swims to the shore and climbs the steep cliff, pushing through the elements to reach the forest. After drying his clothes by a small fire and fashioning a torch, he ventures into the dark, silent woods, facing numerous obstacles and delays.

As dawn breaks, Vis approaches the ruins, only to find that his locator needle has stopped working, heightening his anxiety. He continues to the site, where he discovers a massive, undamaged dome made of a red, glass-like material. The dome, devoid of any visible entry points, bears a Hierarchy symbol etched into its surface, accompanied by the cryptic words 'Luceum. Obiteum. Res. Remember, but do not mourn.'

Vis clears the dirt around the symbol and repeats the words, causing the symbol to split open and reveal a dark, triangular entrance. Heart pounding, he lights his torch and descends into the dome, navigating a corridor lined with bodies impaled by obsidian blades. Reaching a platform overlooking an abyss, he feels the ground beneath him begin to descend, pulling him into the darkness.

Vis descends on a Will-imbued platform into a vast, dark hall hewn from the mountain. The platform slows and settles, and Vis, despite his fear, disembarks. The hall is cathedral-like, with massive columns and a huge Hierarchy symbol at the far end. Determined to uncover the secrets related to Caeror’s time at the Academy, Vis starts toward the symbol.

Suddenly, a man named Artemius Sel appears, dressed in rags with empty, red sockets where his eyes should be. Artemius explains that he is a traitor condemned to servitude, guiding those who come after. He tells Vis that the hall is a test for basic proficiency and offers a bracer studded with symbols. Vis hesitantly accepts the bracer, and the hall transforms into a Labyrinth with high walls and branching passageways.

Vis questions Artemius about the test and the nature of the Labyrinth, but the man only responds to specific questions. Artemius demonstrates the danger by walking into the Labyrinth, where dark, glass-like Remnants attack and kill him. Vis is horrified and retreats, encountering another eyeless guide named Elia Veranius. Elia repeats a similar story and offers the same bracer. Realizing the risks, Vis decides to leave without taking the test.

Exhausted and hungry, Vis pushes through the forest, managing to catch and cook a fish to regain some strength. While resting, he hears a faint, pained whining from downstream and discovers an injured alupi pup trapped under a branch. Despite his initial intention to kill the pup, Vis’s compassion gets the better of him, and he frees and tends to the injured animal, even though it bites him in the process.

With renewed energy, Vis resumes his journey, using the locator needle to guide him. The needle finally works, directing him to a white monolith in the sea. He descends the cliff and prepares to swim to the Transvect, burying his boots and tunic to avoid detection. The cold water initially shocks him, but his swimming skills from Suus help him push through the choppy sea. As the Transvect approaches, Vis drops the locator needle and attaches the grapple to his wrist, narrowly avoiding disaster when he almost loses the bracelet in the water.

Yanked up to the Transvect, Vis slams into its underside with great force. He manages to enter the carriage undetected and dries himself, changing into fresh clothes. He conceals his injuries and tries to appear nonchalant as he exits the Transvect at the Academy. Praeceptor Taedia comments on his close call, but she doesn’t notice anything suspicious. Vis returns to the dormitory, where Eidhin, who is awake, comments on Vis’s poor condition. Despite his aches and bruises, Vis drifts into a deep, dreamless sleep, his body finally succumbing to exhaustion.

Waking up in significant pain, Vis finds his injuries are largely superficial. He dresses stiffly and joins Callidus for breakfast, where they discuss the recent death of Feriun, a student from Class Four who apparently committed suicide. The atmosphere in the mess hall is somber, and Callidus suggests that Feriun’s inability to meet his family’s expectations led to his tragic end. During breakfast, Callidus also mentions that Vis’s performance in Class Six has been so outstanding that he is likely to be promoted to Class Five, despite Dultatis’s bias. Vis is initially reluctant to accept the promotion, given the circumstances, but Callidus reassures him that it’s not his fault. After the meal, Vis heads to class, where Dultatis and Taedia have a heated argument about Vis’s promotion. Taedia insists on promoting Vis, challenging Dultatis to find a student who can outperform him in a duel. Dultatis nominates Ianix, a student known for his exceptional sword skills, and a duel is scheduled for the next day. Despite his aches and the looming challenge, Vis remains determined. However, Dultatis assigns Vis to stable duty, knowing it will interfere with his training. Vis completes his punishment and meets Emissa, who offers to help him practice with Will-imbued training armour, an Amotus. Vis, already committed to tutoring Eidhin, promises to meet Emissa after an hour. Eidhin, understanding the importance of Vis’s commitment, agrees to accompany him to the gymnasium for training.

Vis arrives at the gymnasium for a late-night training session with Emissa, only to find Eidhin has insisted on joining them. They introduce the Amotus, a Will-locked training armour that simulates real combat without the danger. Vis and Eidhin don the wooden control pieces, and the steel armour assembles in front of them, perfectly synchronized with their movements.

Vis struggles to adapt to the Amotus, finding the initial movements awkward and heavy. Eidhin, more experienced, quickly dominates the first round, exploiting Vis’s unfamiliarity with the equipment. However, Vis gradually improves, learning to use his positioning and fluid movements to gain an advantage. By the end of the evening, Vis has turned the tide, beating Eidhin in several rounds and earning his respect.

The training session reveals more about Eidhin’s past, including his training by the Bladesmiths of his tribe. Eidhin’s pride in his heritage is evident, but he also hints at a tragic loss. The conversation shifts to Emissa’s interest in Vis, with Eidhin teasing him about her attractiveness and the chemistry between them. Vis, while flattered, remains cautious, citing his upbringing and the impossibility of a relationship given his secret identity.

As the night winds down, Vis and Callidus discuss Callidus’s suspicions about Vis’s background, leading to a strained moment between the friends.

Still reeling from the intense training session with Emissa and Eidhin, Vis arrives at the Curia Doctrina the next morning to find it nearly empty. As he reaches the quadrum, however, he is surprised by the massive crowd gathered to watch his duel with Ianix. The students are clumped by class, with the Seven on one side and the Thirds on the opposite. Emissa spots him and gives a sympathetic grin, while he notes Eidhin and Aequa among the crowd. Vis is initially taken aback by the overwhelming turnout, but he pushes through the crowd, determined to focus on the duel.

Ianix, already in his Amotus, is confident and experimental with his blade. Dultatis, who seems to enjoy the spectacle, instructs Vis to begin as soon as he is ready. Vis dons his Amotus, a higher-quality version than he has practiced with, and steps into the quadrum. The crowd's anticipation is palpable as the duel begins. Ianix, smirking, saunters forward, but Vis surprises him with a sudden, aggressive attack. The two clash, with Ianix initially dominating the fight, but Vis manages to hold his ground and even lands a clean hit to Ianix's knee. However, Ianix's Amotus fails to react, leading Vis to call for a halt and question the fairness of the fight.

Taedia intervenes, testing the Amotus and confirming that the hit did not trigger the reaction, much to Dultatis's displeasure. The fight resumes, with Ianix more cautious and Vis no longer holding back. Despite his best efforts, Vis cannot land a decisive blow, and the Amotus seems to be rigged against him. Frustrated and angry, Vis decides to change tactics. He throws his sword at Ianix, causing him to duck and lose his position. Vis then tackles Ianix to the ground, wrestles him, and manages to disarm him. In a fit of rage, Vis repeatedly slams Ianix's helmet into the ground, rendering him unconscious. Vis places Ianix's helmet on the tip of his sword, but the Amotus does not recognize the defeat. Determined, Vis strips off his Amotus and confronts Dultatis, tossing Ianix's bloodied helmet at his feet. Dultatis, visibly shaken, is forced to acknowledge Vis's victory.

Still reeling from his victory over Ianix, Vis meets Callidus in the early morning. Callidus quietly accuses Vis of having an anger problem, and Vis, weary from the recent duel, acknowledges the issue and attempts to mend the tension between them by admitting he should have been more open about his feelings. Callidus accepts the apology but warns that he will eventually uncover the specifics of Vis’s background. The two friends then spar, and Callidus, who has been improving, seems distracted and slower than usual.

During their sparring session, Callidus reveals a disturbing secret: for the past four Academy cycles, several Thirds and Fourths have died at Solivagus, and these deaths are covered up with bribes and threats. Additionally, ten graduates from Class Three have vanished from their pyramids, presumed dead. Callidus explains that his father, a powerful figure in Governance, warned him about these risks before he came to the Academy. Vis, though unsettled, remains determined to advance to higher classes, understanding the importance of his mission. Callidus, impressed by Vis’s resolve, continues to support him.

The next few weeks pass in a pleasant haze of work and study. Vis and Callidus start each morning with sparring and academic discussions, delving into advanced topics like Distributed Conditionals and Will interplay with mechanics. Emissa occasionally joins them, contributing to the sessions with her own knowledge. Vis’s classes under Taedia become more engaging, and he learns more in three weeks than he did in two months with Dultatis. Despite his improved standing, Vis remains somewhat isolated from the other students, viewed with caution due to his reputation and the Catenicus nomenclature. Vis continues to tutor Eidhin, who shows remarkable progress in his studies. Despite the challenges, Vis’s mood improves, and he works diligently to be a model student. Two days into his fourth week under Praeceptor Taedia, Vis is promoted to Class Four.

Praeceptor Scitus informs Vis that he has been promoted to Class Four, emphasizing the need for him to connect with his new classmates and build relationships. Failure to do so will result in a demotion. Vis, understanding the importance of this requirement, agrees to comply, despite his reservations about leaving his old friends behind. He is instructed to sit with his new classmates during meals and study with them after dinner.

At dinner, Vis joins the Class Four table, where he is met with a mix of curiosity and apprehension. He introduces himself and engages in conversation, managing to ease the tension and establish a tentative rapport with his new classmates. Aequa, Axien, and a few others are particularly welcoming, while others remain cautious. Vis shares his background and experiences, including his time in the Victorum, which, while not impressive to the patrician students, helps to establish a common ground. The conversation reveals the political divides within the class, with students from Military, Religion, and Governance forming distinct groups.

After dinner, Vis meets Eidhin in the Bibliotheca for their regular study session. Eidhin, now more fluent in Common, corrects Dultatis in front of the class, much to the Praeceptor's annoyance. Vis and Eidhin discuss the compromises and changes the Hierarchy imposes on students, with Eidhin sharing his own painful past, including his time in a Sapper for killing three Praetorians. Vis, shocked by this revelation, reaffirms his commitment to their friendship and promises to continue their sessions.

Praeceptor Scitus's lessons in Class Four are a whirlwind of intensity, with debates and discussions that challenge Vis's intellect and quick thinking. Vis adapts swiftly, engaging in heated exchanges with his peers. He notices the formation of factions, with certain students aligning themselves based on shared beliefs and backgrounds. Despite the pressure, Vis remains neutral, siding with whoever he believes is right, which earns him both glares and surprised looks from his classmates.

On his fifth day, Vis and his classmates head to the Labyrinth for a run, where the Thirds are also present. Aequa is chosen to run first, with Vis as her partner. Iro, a Third, whispers insults to Vis, distracting him and causing Aequa to lose valuable time. Despite this setback, Aequa manages to guide Vis effectively during his own run, and he performs admirably. Aequa, still stung by her own failure, is marginally more pleased with Vis's performance.

After the run, Indol approaches Vis and extends an invitation to train with the Thirds at his family's estate on the island of Suus during the trimester break. Indol explains that his father suggested the invitation as a gesture of gratitude for Vis's actions during the naumachia. Vis, recognizing the opportunity and potential benefits, accepts the offer. However, the mention of Suus sends a shock through him, as it is the place of his childhood and the site of his family's downfall.

Vis grapples with the prospect of returning to Suus, his childhood home, for the trimester break. Indol's invitation to train at his family's estate stirs painful memories and deep-seated fears. Vis dreads being recognized by the locals and is not ready to confront the ghosts of his past, which continually distract him from his studies and training.

Scitus notices Vis's distraction and reprimands him gently, acknowledging his potential. Vis's friends, including Callidus, sense his preoccupation but are reassured by his half-truths about the invitation. Vis hopes to find a way out of the trip by meeting Relucia at the Festival of Pletuna, believing she will understand the risks and help him avoid the visit.

Two days before the festival, Aequa approaches Vis, inviting him to join the Fourths in Caten for the Festival of Pletuna. Despite his reservations about potential exposure, Vis agrees to go, aware that Scitus is watching and expects him to integrate with his classmates. The conversation shifts to the recent official damnation of Feriun's memory, and Aequa subtly probes Vis about his whereabouts during the Festival of the Ancestors. Vis deftly deflects her questions, but the interaction leaves him uneasy, recognizing Aequa's sharp intellect and potential to uncover the truth.

Later, Vis and Callidus discuss the complexities of the Labyrinth and the inefficiencies of its design. Callidus expresses his disappointment at not being able to attend the festival and speculates on the Academy's decision to allow the Fourths to go. Callidus also voices his concern for Vis's safety in Caten, given the wild nature of the festival and the potential threat from the Anguis. Vis reassures Callidus, determined to face the challenges ahead and prepare for his secret meeting with Relucia.

Vis reflects on his mixed feelings about religious holidays, particularly the Festival of Pletuna, which he remembers fondly from his days as a starving teenager. The festival provided a rare opportunity for him to eat and feel a sense of hope. As he prepares to attend the festival in Caten with his classmates, Praeceptor Scitus hands him a tracking tile and warns him to be cautious and return by midnight.

Upon arriving in Caten, Vis is overwhelmed by the festive atmosphere but quickly notices a crude mural depicting the naumachia and the word 'CATENICUS' scrawled underneath. Aequa invites the group to watch Foundation games, but Vis and the others decide to split up to explore different parts of the city. Driven by a sense of urgency to meet Relucia, Vis follows a subtle tug on his cloak to a rundown house.

Inside, Relucia greets him and discusses his progress at the Academy, revealing that the death of a student in Class Four was orchestrated by the Anguis. Vis is distraught and demands that no one else be killed because of him. Relucia agrees to consider alternatives but reveals that she orchestrated the invitation for Vis to accompany the Thirds to Suus during the break, where a Military summit will take place. Vis is horrified, as he fears being recognized, but Relucia reassures him that he is unlikely to encounter anyone he knows. She tasks him with spying on the summit, particularly on the final night when the highest-ranking officials will meet.

Navigating the aggressive crowds during the Festival of Pletuna, Vis reflects on his discussion with Relucia and the looming trip to Suus. Deciding to disable the tracking tile Relucia gave him, he follows her to a meeting with a man, overhearing a conversation about a Cataclysm weapon and severed heads. Disturbed, Vis retrieves the tracking tile and rejoins his classmates, only to find that they have left the Foundation games.

As Vis wanders, he notices two men following him. Realizing they are Anguis, Vis runs through the narrow alleys but is eventually cornered and attacked. Praeceptor Scitus and Aequa intervene, revealing that the attack was a ruse to test whether Vis was using Will. Vis is furious, and Aequa apologizes, but the damage to their relationship is done. The group returns to the Academy, and Vis seeks out Callidus, only to find him with Belli, leading to a moment of uncertainty.

Over the next few weeks, the tension between Vis and Aequa becomes apparent. Scitus begins to challenge Vis more in class, pushing him to apply his knowledge, while Aequa retreats into herself. Vis continues his training with Callidus and Eidhin, but the trimester break looms, and he is increasingly anxious about the trip to Suus. Finally, Vis joins the Thirds on a Transvect bound for the island, where a Military summit is taking place.

Vis lies on his bed, reflecting on his emotional return to Suus, his childhood home. The journey on the Will-powered ship stirs vivid memories, and he struggles to maintain his composure as the island comes into view. Emissa, Indol, and Belli are his companions, and he engages in light conversation to distract himself, though the sight of the transformed island and the new structures on the pier weigh heavily on him.

Upon arrival, they are greeted by Sextus Auctia, the Dispensator of the Quiscil household. Indol introduces the group, and they are led to the palace, which has been drastically altered. The once-beautiful etchings and sandstone have been replaced with garish Catenan designs, causing Vis to feel a deep sense of loss and anger. The group is ushered inside, and Vis is relieved to find that the interior remains familiar, though the exterior changes are a constant reminder of the Hierarchy's presence.

They are greeted by Magnus Dimidius Quiscil, who exudes power and authority. He warmly welcomes Indol and the others, showing particular interest in Vis, whom he recognizes as Ulciscor’s adopted son. Vis forces a smile and shakes Dimidius's hand, masking his intense hatred. The Dimidius invites them to a dinner, and Vis notices Fadrique, one of his father's old advisers, in the entourage. Fadrique's presence and his role in the Hierarchy add to Vis's anger and sense of betrayal. Vis is shown to his room, where he locks himself in and breaks down, overwhelmed by the emotions of being back in his former home. He finds a hidden entrance to the tunnel system and plans to use it to spy on the Military summit.

Lying on his bed, Vis reflects on his return to Suus, his mind heavy with memories. Suddenly, Ulciscor and Lanistia visit him, bringing a gift from his mother—a beautifully crafted gold-plated stylus inscribed with 'Stronger Together.' Vis accepts the gift and joins them for a walk through the palace, now drastically altered by the Hierarchy. They make small talk, and Ulciscor expresses pride in Vis's advancement to Class Four and his performance at the Festival of Pletuna.

Upon reaching the dining hall, Vis is introduced to various senators, including Magnus Quintus Omus, and is eventually invited to join the Dimidius Quiscil at the main table. The dinner is a spectacle of lavish, yet inauthentic, Catenan cuisine and decor. Quiscil, both genial and commanding, interrogates Vis about the naumachia, probing for details about the Anguis's weapon. Despite his discomfort, Vis manages to provide evasive but satisfactory answers, aware that Quiscil is more interested in the weapon's capabilities than in Vis himself.

Emissa interrupts the dinner, offering a pretext to pull Vis away from Quiscil. They share a light and comfortable conversation, mocking the evening's entertainment and providing a moment of respite for Vis. Emissa's presence helps him relax, and he feels a genuine connection with her. However, Ulciscor interrupts, reminding Vis of his obligations to mingle with the senators. Ulciscor warns Vis to be cautious around Emissa, hinting at her involvement in the Transvect attack.

After the dinner, Vis explores the palace's hidden tunnels, checking for any security measures that might hinder his mission. The tunnels are unchanged and unguarded, suggesting the Hierarchy does not consider them a significant threat. Vis pauses at the Great Hall, a place of deep personal significance, and reflects on his father's leadership and the memories associated with the space. The emotional weight of the day is overwhelming, but Vis finds solace in the brief moments of levity with Emissa. He returns to his room, exhausted and melancholic, but grateful for the brief reprieve.

Vis and Belli sit on the beach, avoiding the water where Emissa and Indol are swimming. Vis is reluctant to join them, haunted by the painful memories of losing his sister Cari on this very beach. Belli, who shares his aversion to swimming, bonds with Vis over their mutual dislike of the activity and their preference for indoor games like Foundation. Vis subtly probes Belli about Callidus, but her reaction suggests a complicated relationship, and she dismisses him as a Seventh who never showed much intelligence.

Fadrique, a former adviser to Vis's father, approaches the group, signaling that they are being summoned. Fadrique informs them that they will be breaking fast in town, a rare opportunity to see the island. Vis is uneasy about the idea, knowing that many people in town might recognize him. The group walks through the town, which has changed significantly under the Hierarchy's rule, now bearing a mechanical and lifeless atmosphere. Fadrique continues to narrate the changes, but his presence is unwelcome among the locals.

They stop at a familiar tavern, where the owner, Menendo, refuses to serve Fadrique, recalling the Hierarchy's brutal takeover and the execution of Vis's family. Menendo's defiance and the support from other patrons give Vis a glimmer of hope that his people have not forgotten their past. Indol, the son of Dimidius, is affronted by Menendo's behavior, but Fadrique defuses the situation by taking the blame. The group eventually finds a meal elsewhere, and the conversation shifts to their training plans, with Vis feeling a renewed sense of belonging despite being treated as a Fourth.

Exhausted from a grueling day of training with the Thirds, Vis stumbles into his quarters late at night. The intensity of the training far exceeded anything he experienced at the Academy, pushing him to his physical and mental limits. Despite his fatigue, he knows he must find out which hall is being used for the senatorial meetings and eavesdrop on their conversations. However, his plans are derailed when he encounters Indol, who apologizes for the morning’s treatment at the inn and mentions Emissa’s plan to go for an evening swim at the lagoon.

Concerned about the riptide, Vis rushes to the lagoon and finds Emissa struggling in the current. He dives from Aznaro’s Bluff to rescue her, using his knowledge of the area to navigate the dangerous waters. Despite the risks, he successfully guides Emissa to a nearby cave, where they take shelter. The next morning, they make their way back to the palace, with Vis feigning illness to avoid suspicion. Upon their return, they are greeted with concern and relief by Indol and Belli.

Later that evening, Ulciscor and Lanistia visit Vis to discuss the events. Ulciscor is initially exasperated by Vis’s actions, particularly his deepening bond with Emissa, but he soon shifts focus to the information Vis obtained from the ruins. Vis recounts his journey to the red dome and the strange beings he encountered, but Ulciscor demands that Vis run the Labyrinth during the Iudicium to retrieve the information. Despite Vis’s protests, Ulciscor insists, threatening to place him in a Sapper if he fails. Lanistia, while supportive of Vis, ultimately sides with Ulciscor, leaving Vis feeling bitter and overwhelmed.

Still reeling from the previous night's events, Vis convinces everyone of his supposed illness the following day. His red-rimmed eyes and sluggish demeanor help sell the story. He spends most of the day in his quarters, making three trips to the Lesser Hall to eavesdrop on the senatorial meetings. The discussions are largely political, focusing on internal maneuvering and the potential threats from various houses and individuals within Military. Vis carefully notes the names and details of the suspected traitors, committing much of the information to memory.

In the evening, Vis attends dinner, looking disheveled and drained to maintain his cover. He speaks briefly with the Thirds, particularly Emissa, and then goes to the docks to see Ulciscor and Lanistia off. After they depart, Vis returns to his quarters, locks the door, and prepares to eavesdrop on the final meeting. The discussion reveals that Military has been covertly supporting the Anguis, including the attack on the naumachia. The senators are planning another operation, involving a ship called the Navisalus, which will be used to transport weapons and designs to the Anguis.

Vis is shocked by the extent of Military's involvement and the potential consequences of the plan. He realizes that this is the information Relucia wanted him to obtain. As he contemplates his next move, he is suddenly confronted by Fadrique, who has been hiding in the tunnel leading to his room. Vis is caught off guard and panics, but Fadrique steps into the lamplight, revealing himself.

Fadrique, a former adviser to Vis’s father, unexpectedly confronts Vis in the hidden tunnels beneath the palace. Recognizing Vis as Prince Diago, Fadrique expresses a mix of joy, disbelief, and regret. Initially suspicious and accusatory, Vis gradually accepts Fadrique’s explanation that he stayed to protect the people of Suus, despite the Hierarchy’s manipulation and his own guilt.

As they talk, Fadrique reveals the fate of Vis’s family and the turmoil that followed the Hierarchy’s takeover. Devastated to learn that his family was hanged, Vis breaks down in tears. Fadrique comforts him, sharing that his parents believed his sister Carinza had escaped, which brings some solace.

Fadrique then leads Vis to a hidden chamber filled with cherished items from his family’s past, including his mother’s bow and personal trinkets. Overwhelmed with gratitude and nostalgia, Vis feels a profound connection to his lost family. Fadrique explains that he hid these items to preserve them and to give Vis a tangible link to his past. The two spend hours discussing life on Suus since the Hierarchy’s arrival, the initial resistance, and the eventual acceptance of the new order.

Fadrique also reveals that he has allies in the town, including Menendo, who recognized Vis at the tavern. They discuss the naumachia and Vis’s role in stopping the Anguis, with Fadrique expressing pride in Vis’s actions. Vis confides in Fadrique about his mission to spy on the Military summit and the advantages of the hidden tunnels. Fadrique’s insights suggest that someone with knowledge of the tunnels must have arranged Vis’s trip to Suus, hinting at deeper involvement.

Tossed and turning in bed, Vis reflects on a pivotal conversation with his father when he was twelve. His father had taken him to the top of the East Tower and posed a series of questions about what makes a good ruler, ultimately concluding that no one is perfect enough to have the right to lead. This conversation, along with his father's disdain for the Hierarchy's greed-based system, has stayed with Vis through the years. The memory is bittersweet as he contemplates the current state of Suus and the pain of his family's fate.

The next morning, Vis rises, dresses, and washes, despite his lack of sleep. He uses the tunnels to transcribe the information he gathered about the Military's plans onto Relucia’s stylus, then destroys the evidence. Emissa visits him, and they agree to spend time together on the beach. Vis feels a shift in his emotions, no longer seeing the beach solely through the lens of his sister's death but also as a place of happy memories. This change in perspective is partly due to his conversation with Fadrique, which has helped him process his pain.

On the beach, Vis and Emissa enjoy each other's company, and Indol joins them, observing Vis's familiarity with the area. Indol confronts Vis about his apparent knowledge of the palace and the island, suggesting that Vis is not an orphan from a distant village. Vis, realizing he must play a role, fabricates a story about being from a noble family to explain his advanced skills and knowledge. Indol accepts the explanation and offers to keep Vis's secret. Over the next three weeks, Vis and Emissa grow closer, and he finds comfort in her presence, even as he misses his friends from the Academy. The training with the Thirds is challenging, but Emissa's support helps him keep up.

On their last day, Vis visits the tavern in town, where Menendo, the barkeep, serves him a traditional king’s feast without a word. The meal and the atmosphere bring a sense of home and comfort, allowing Vis to feel more at peace with his past. As he leaves, he leaves coins from Fadrique’s hoard on the counter, symbolically connecting to his father’s legacy. Reflecting on the month, Vis realizes that he needs to do something extraordinary to stand out in Class Three, as simply excelling in Class Four will not be enough to advance. The chapter ends with Vis preparing to return to the Academy, aware that the Iudicium is approaching and that he must act soon.

Vis reflects on his emotional departure from Suus, feeling a different kind of sadness compared to when he fled three and a half years ago. This time, it feels like a final goodbye, leaving him hollow. On the Transvect back to the Academy, Emissa naps on his shoulder, and Indol occasionally watches him from the corner of his eye. Despite the tension, their interactions have become amicable, and an unspoken understanding has formed between them.

The Academy grounds are bustling with returning students when Vis arrives. He reunites with Callidus in the library, where Callidus teases him about his romantic exploits with Emissa on Suus. Vis laughs and blushes, explaining that the story has been circulating among the students. Callidus, starved for entertainment, is captivated. Vis shares a sanitized version of his experiences, omitting the most sensitive details. Callidus agrees to let Eidhin join their morning training sessions, as Vis plans to run the Labyrinth with Emissa to improve his skills. They catch up on their respective breaks, with Callidus revealing that Eidhin's Common has improved significantly.

Later, Vis and Callidus walk to the mess hall, where Vis is greeted with curious and awed looks from the students. He spends the evening being questioned about his time on Suus, deflecting as much as possible but ultimately giving abbreviated versions of his experiences. Aequa is notably quiet during the meal, and Vis tries to include her in the conversation, but she remains distant. After dinner, Vis reflects on the positive aspects of being back at the Academy, particularly seeing his friends again. He is more confident than ever that practicing with Emissa will help him improve, and he is determined to advance to Class Three before the Iudicium.

That night, Callidus approaches Vis in the parkland, looking nervous. He confesses that he has been blackmailed by Belli since before the start of the Academy. Callidus had stolen classified documents from his father to warn Belli about the deaths in the Academy, but she kept the documents and threatened to expose them if Callidus did not drop to Class Seven. Callidus is terrified of the consequences, which could destroy his family's standing in the Senate. Belli has been pressuring him for more information, becoming increasingly threatening. Vis listens, feeling anger and sadness for Callidus, and they discuss potential solutions, though Callidus believes there is no way out. Vis vows to help, and they talk for a while longer before parting ways. Vis reflects on Callidus’s situation and considers a risky plan to help both advance to Class Three and resolve Callidus’s blackmail.

Still reeling from the emotional weight of his departure from Suus, Vis spends two weeks meticulously refining his plan to advance to Class Three. He enlists Emissa's help to challenge Belli to a game of Foundation. Despite her initial skepticism, Emissa agrees to assist him. The next evening, Vis and Emissa set up a game of Foundation in the mess hall, drawing the attention of other students and the Praeceptors. Belli, initially reluctant, is provoked into accepting the challenge when Vis suggests that she is afraid of losing.

During the game, Vis employs a series of strategic moves, leveraging his experience and knowledge of Belli's playing style to gain the upper hand. Despite the initial disadvantage of playing without one of his pieces, Vis gradually weakens Belli's position, leading to a critical moment where he offers to settle for a draw in exchange for the documents Belli has taken from Callidus. Belli, realizing she is in a losing position, agrees to the terms and fetches the documents, which Callidus confirms are genuine.

Vis continues the game, capturing Belli's pieces and forcing her to concede. The crowd, including the Praeceptors, is stunned by the outcome. Scitus confirms Vis's victory, and Vis announces that he will take Belli's spot in Class Three. The chapter ends with Vis and Callidus leaving the mess hall, with Callidus expressing his gratitude and relief, and Vis feeling a mix of accomplishment and unease about the consequences of his actions.

Vis's first few weeks in Class Three are more challenging than he anticipated. Nequias, the Praeceptor, treats him with the same cold, unrelenting pressure he applies to all students, pushing Vis to his limits both academically and physically. The curriculum is intense, covering complex topics like Causal and sub-Harmonic imbuing, socio-economic ramifications, and historical analysis of pre-Cataclysm ruins. Vis is exhausted but determined, running the Labyrinth with Emissa and improving his skills. By the end of the first month, he starts to adapt to the routine, feeling more confident in his abilities and making progress in the class.

One morning, Nequias announces that the Iudicium proceedings will begin earlier than expected, catching the Thirds off guard. The students are informed that they must choose two students from the other classes to follow their command during the Iudicium, with the rankings of Class Four available to them. Vis, knowing the risks, decides to ask Callidus and Eidhin to join him. He warns them about the dangers, particularly the covered-up deaths and disappearances associated with the Iudicium. Both agree to join him, with Callidus showing him the classified documents that confirm the risks.

Vis and Callidus discuss the documents, which detail the deaths and disappearances of students over the past two decades. Callidus, despite his concerns, decides to participate, emphasizing the importance of supporting Vis. The chapter ends with Vis feeling a mix of determination and unease, knowing that the Iudicium will be a critical test of his abilities and the trust he has built with his friends.

Vis visits Principalis Veridius's office to discuss his advancement to Class Three and his team selection for the Iudicium. Veridius congratulates Vis on his rapid rise and inquires about his choices, noting that he selected Callidus and Eidhin, both from Class Six, rather than students from Class Four. Veridius emphasizes the importance of trust in choosing teammates and warns Vis not to ask Callidus and Eidhin about their private discussions with him.

Two days later, Eidhin approaches Vis during lunch and takes him to a secluded spot. Eidhin reveals his painful past, explaining that his tribe lived by a code called 'ddram cyfraith,' which honors death as a sacrifice. He recounts how the Hierarchy attacked his tribe, and his father betrayed them to save himself and others, leading to Eidhin being placed in a Sapper. Eidhin expresses deep resentment towards his father and the Hierarchy, but he cannot join Vis in the Iudicium due to a risk of expulsion. Vis, though disappointed, understands and accepts Eidhin's decision.

Determined to find a suitable teammate, Vis approaches Aequa to ask her to join his team for the Iudicium. Aequa is initially skeptical, questioning why Vis would trust her after their past conflicts. Vis explains that he believes her apology was genuine and sees this as an opportunity for redemption. Aequa agrees to join, and they head to Veridius's office to inform him. Veridius speaks privately with Aequa, and she returns looking shaken but confirms her commitment to the team. Vis feels relieved and determined to prepare for the Iudicium, which is only three weeks away.

Hours before dawn on the morning of the Iudicium, Vis lies awake, his mind a whirlwind of plans and fears. The stakes are impossibly high, and the thought of the dome and the consequences of failure leaves him breathless. He dresses carefully, dreading the day ahead. In the quadrum, the atmosphere is tense and silent; no one engages in small talk or shows excitement. Vis exchanges polite, stiff greetings with Indol, Sianus, and Prav before joining the other students and Praeceptors.

Veridius addresses the gathered students, congratulating them on their achievements and explaining the rules of the Iudicium. The goal is to obtain the Heart of Jovan, a Will-imbued object guarded by two Sextii, and return it to the statue of Jovan at the Academy. The victor will become a Domitor, and their team will be ranked at the top of Class Four. If a Fourth replaces the Heart, they win, and the Class Three rankings are determined by other means. Each Third receives a medallion and a tracker, and they will have two Sextii assigned to their safety. The rules are designed to sow doubt and tension among the teams, and Vis feels a mix of determination and unease.

The students board a boat to the other side of Solivagus. The journey is tense and uncomfortable, with the wind whipping through their cloaks. Veridius hands out satchels containing supplies and medallions. The Thirds are given a white medallion and a black bead to swallow, which will alert the safety teams if they are in danger. The Fourths receive black medallions that can link to a Third’s medallion. Indol, the top-ranked student, makes a bold announcement, offering to let any Fourth join his team by bringing him a Third’s medallion. This creates additional tension and uncertainty among the teams.

Vis, Aequa, and Callidus discuss their strategy, deciding to avoid direct confrontation and circle around the western boundary to gain an advantage. As they journey deeper into the forest, Vis decides to remove the black bead from his system, believing it will allow them to misdirect other teams. He successfully retrieves the bead and rejoins his teammates. They continue their trek, debating their next move. The golden tracker for the Heart points south, but it is not very accurate. Just as they pause to rest and argue, they are ambushed. Vis is tackled and struck repeatedly, the attack happening so quickly that he is left dazed and in pain, the chapter ending with his consciousness fading.

Propped against a tree, Vis wakes up bound and in pain, with Belli, Iro, Callidus, and Aequa nearby. Belli gloats about his elimination, but Vis realizes they haven't taken his medallion, suggesting they have a use for him. Despite the pain, Vis tries to negotiate, proposing an alliance to cover more ground and take out other teams, but Iro and Belli are skeptical. Callidus supports Vis’s proposal, but Aequa remains silent, her expression revealing her internal struggle. Eventually, Aequa decides to join Iro and Belli, handing over her medallion to Iro, who activates it to signal their departure. Callidus and Vis are left tied up, stripped of their cloaks and supplies, as Aequa, Iro, and Belli leave.

As night falls, Vis and Callidus continue to talk, reflecting on their friendship and the high stakes of the Iudicium. Callidus reveals that Veridius offered him a place in Class Four and a chance to graduate as a Domitor if he won, but he chose to stay with Vis. Vis is touched by Callidus’s loyalty and reflects on the nature of trust and the harsh realities of the Iudicium. Suddenly, Aequa returns, cutting their bonds and explaining that she plans to double-cross Iro and Belli by activating Vis’s medallion, which she slipped into Iro’s food. They decide to regroup and execute the plan.

Still reeling from Aequa's betrayal, Vis, Callidus, and Aequa discuss a risky plan to steal a tracking plate from the Sextii. Aequa and Callidus are initially skeptical, but they agree to the strategy after realizing the need for an advantage. Aequa will rejoin Iro and Belli, while Callidus and Vis will locate one of the safety teams and steal the tracking plate. They plan to regroup the next day at a designated meeting point.

Vis and Callidus set out to find the safety team. They locate the camp of Borius and Darin, two Sextii, and devise a plan for Callidus to create a distraction while Vis steals the tracking plate. Callidus successfully distracts Borius with a song, allowing Vis to approach the camp. However, Borius quickly realizes something is amiss and confronts Vis. Vis manages to grab the tracking plate and a cloak before fleeing into the forest.

Enraged, Borius pursues Vis, using his Will to uproot and throw trees at him. Vis narrowly escapes, hiding in the bushes as Borius searches for him. After a tense standoff, Borius and Darin eventually leave the area. Vis, shaken but unharmed, continues his journey westward toward the river and the dome, determined to complete his mission.

Still reeling from his narrow escape from Borius, Vis navigates through the forest at night, heading toward the river that marks the boundary of the Iudicium. Haunted by the images of the Remnants tearing Artemius apart, he forces himself to continue. He strips off his clothes and meticulously packs them into his satchel, then wades into the icy river, shivering as the frigid water envelops him. He makes it to the other side with his bag mostly dry, but he discovers a dark patch of blood on his cloak, which he washes off in the river.

An hour later, Vis is jogging westward, sweating and navigating the quiet, unsettling forest. He rests on a rocky rise and checks the tracking plate he stole from Borius, only to find it useless without the stones. As he stands, he hears a rustling and senses a presence. He draws his hunting knife and prepares for an encounter. A low, rumbling growl fills the air, and an alupi emerges from the shadows, its eyes and teeth glinting in the moonlight. Vis backs away, but the alupi attacks, knocking him to the ground and disarming him.

To Vis's astonishment, the alupi leaps off him and circles around, growling. Vis recognizes a scar on the wolf's back, matching the one on the cub he saved months ago. He tentatively calls out to the wolf, naming it Diago, but the alupi snarls and retreats into the forest. Vis, now more anxious, continues his journey and eventually reaches the dome. The alupi, which he believes to be Diago, is waiting at the entrance, growling and barring his path. Vis carefully places his satchel on the ground and walks confidently toward the entrance, saying the incantation to open the door. The alupi watches as Vis steps into the darkness, and the door closes behind him.

Still reeling from the alupi attack, Vis finds himself in a cavernous hall within the dome. The hollow-eyed woman, Elia Veranius, greets him and offers a control bracer. Despite his unease, Vis accepts the bracer and asks if there is a way to see an overview of the Labyrinth or practice the test. Elia activates an overview, revealing the Labyrinth and the movements of the Remnants. Vis uses the control bracer to manipulate the walls and study the Remnants' predictable patterns, gaining valuable insights.

After several demonstrations, Vis feels ready to take the test. A young, eyeless girl, reminiscent of his sister Cari, confirms his readiness. With a deep breath, Vis steps into the Labyrinth, counting his steps and manipulating the walls with the bracer. His confidence wavers when he stumbles upon Belli's torn and pinned body, a grim reminder of the dangers he faces. Shaken but determined, Vis continues running, narrowly avoiding the Remnants.

Reaching the exit, Vis confronts a Remnant blocking his path. In a moment of desperation, he charges through the exit, sliding to the ground and bracing for the worst. To his relief, the Remnants cannot follow him, and the exit seals behind him. Vis tosses the control bracer away, trembling from the intensity of his harrowing experience.

Still reeling from the harrowing experience in the Labyrinth, Vis finally stops shaking. The chamber is bathed in a virulent red light, and a tunnel stretches ahead, marked with symbols in the ancient Vetusian dialect. Vis, still haunted by the sight of Belli's body, hesitates but eventually starts down the passageway, focusing on the symbols to steady his nerves.

The air grows heavier as Vis reaches a chamber with a circle of bronze blades in the center. The inscription around the blades warns of a journey to Luceum and Obiteum, but the exact meaning eludes him. Despite the ominous warnings, Vis steps into the circle, triggering a series of bizarre and painful transformations. He is encased in a congealed air, subjected to intense pressure, and then violently torn apart before being released. Vis is left sprawled on the ground, gasping for air and burning with pain.

Regaining his composure, Vis notices the bronze blades retracting, revealing a path. He also sees a cloud of obsidian shards and dark silhouettes. A voice commands him to complete the journey, and Vis, with no other choice, runs back through the Labyrinth. The Remnants chase him, but he manages to block their pursuit. Upon reaching the exit, he is confronted by a group of eyeless figures. Just as he is about to fight, Diago, the alupi he saved, charges into the group, creating a gap for Vis to escape.

Vis and Diago fight the remaining figures, with Diago savagely attacking and Vis using his knife to take down two more. Despite their efforts, Diago is gravely injured and can barely move. Vis, also wounded, sits with Diago, thanking him for his help. The chapter ends with Vis fading to the sound of Diago's labored breathing.

Vis wakes up to find Diago, the alupi he saved, still alive and recovering. Diago limps into the forest, leaving Vis to tend to his own injuries, including a deep bite wound on his arm. Vis cleans and bandages the wound, reflecting on the mysterious events in the dome and the help he received from an unknown source.

Returning to the river, Vis cleans his tunic and dries his clothes. When he rejoins Callidus and Aequa, Aequa immediately tends to Vis’s arm, which she suspects is infected. Vis recounts his encounter with the alupi and the theft of the tracking plate from the Sextii, while Callidus and Aequa share their own experiences since parting ways.

The team discusses their next move, using the tracking plate to monitor the positions of other teams. They decide to approach the nearest team, which they believe to be Indol’s, while Callidus will act as a decoy to maintain the element of surprise. Despite the risks, they are determined to proceed, with Aequa staying with Vis and Callidus heading off to set up the ambush.

Still reeling from the Anguis attack, Vis and Aequa crouch on a hillside, examining the ruins of an ancient fortified town where the Heart of Jovan is hidden. Aequa points out the dual towers overlooking the river, suggesting the Heart is likely in one of them. They decide to move south for a better angle, but Vis insists on scouting a nearby area where a team member was eliminated. Despite Aequa's reluctance, they discover a gruesome scene: a mass grave of mutilated bodies, including the safety teams and Sianus. The bodies are badly disfigured, and flies swarm around them, indicating a recent and violent death.

Vis and Aequa are horrified by the discovery, but Vis is determined to understand the situation. He realizes that the safety teams were targeted to eliminate any interference, and the Anguis must have informants within the Academy. They discuss the potential motives behind the attack, including the possibility of a ransom or a larger political scheme. Vis suggests that Indol's father, the Military Dimidius, might be involved, as Indol is planning to defect to Religion. Aequa is initially skeptical but eventually agrees to help warn the others.

Vis and Aequa decide to split up, with Aequa heading to warn the remaining team and Vis approaching Indol. They reach Indol's camp, and Vis reveals the grim discovery, showing him the bloodied hand of a safety team member. Indol is shocked and quickly understands the gravity of the situation. Vis advises Indol to split his team and scatter, using the tracking plates to mislead the Anguis. Indol agrees and sends Axien to warn the others. Before leaving, Vis warns Indol about his father's potential involvement in the Anguis attack, revealing that Emissa lied about Indol's plans to defect. Indol, though surprised, thanks Vis for the warning and disappears into the underbrush.

Vis races through the forest, his mind racing with the implications of the Anguis attack. He is relieved that Relucia likely knows of their presence and that he might not be a target, but he remains cautious. Upon reaching a clearing, he finds Aequa and Marcellus facing each other, with Marcellus looking ill and Aequa tense. Aequa explains that Emissa has used Titus, Valentina, and Tem as decoys to draw out the Sextii and Indol, while she plans to steal the Heart of Jovan from the eastern tower.

Vis and Aequa discuss the urgency of the situation. Marcellus reveals that Emissa left a quarter hour ago, and Vis realizes she will make her move as dusk turns to night. He instructs Aequa to warn Callidus and smash his medallion if necessary. Marcellus decides to leave, and Vis lets him go. As Aequa prepares to leave, Vis senses a strange, pulsing presence in the forest and urges her to hide. Two men, one carrying a tracking plate, enter the clearing and discuss the medallions they found, confirming the Anguis’s presence and their intent to eliminate as many students as possible.

After the men leave, Aequa and Vis wait a moment before continuing. Aequa heads south to warn Callidus, and Vis approaches the dual towers where the Heart of Jovan is hidden. He uses his new ability to sense the presence of others to avoid detection and reaches the base of the eastern tower. Inside a walled courtyard, he discovers the bodies of Valentina, Tem, and Titus, their heads beaten to pulp. As he processes the horror, a man appears, introducing himself as someone who knows Vis from the Festival of Pletuna.

The man, who has a disfiguring scar, explains that the Anguis is acting on Military’s orders to create a crisis that will allow Military to take over the Academy. He reveals that Emissa is alive and on the tower, and offers Vis a deal: win the Iudicium and Emissa will remain unharmed. Vis agrees, and the man disappears, leaving Vis to climb the tower. At the top, he confronts a massive guard holding the Heart of Jovan, who recognizes him as Catenicus and prepares to attack.

Vis confronts a Will-imbued Anguis soldier atop the eastern tower. The soldier, a formidable Sextus, charges at Vis with lethal force, shattering the stone tower with his fists. Despite his training, Vis is outmatched and relies on quick reflexes and agility to evade the soldier's relentless attacks. The soldier's strength and control are evident as he effortlessly destroys the tower's stone, forcing Vis to remain on the defensive and avoid being cornered.

The battle intensifies when the soldier hurls a massive stone at Vis, catching him off guard and severely injuring his already wounded arm. Vis narrowly avoids being knocked off the tower, clinging on and pulling himself back up. Just as the soldier prepares to deliver a final blow, Emissa intervenes, stabbing the soldier with an obsidian blade. The soldier falls to his death, and Emissa, her eyes black with power, explains that the soldier intended to kill Vis, not just prevent him from taking the Heart of Jovan. Her eyes return to normal, and she expresses concern and guilt over Vis's injuries.

Emissa and Vis discuss the Anguis's plan to eliminate the students and the safety teams. Vis reveals that the Anguis are targeting the students to create a crisis, and Emissa, though shaken, believes him. Vis insists they must find Callidus and warn the others. However, Emissa suddenly demands the Heart of Jovan, threatening Vis with the obsidian blade. Confused and betrayed, Vis tosses the Heart to her feet. In a moment of distress, Emissa throws the dagger at Vis, impaling him in the stomach. Vis, in shock and pain, falls off the tower, clutching the Heart as he plunges into the river below.

Severely injured and in immense pain, Vis wakes up on the stony beach after falling from the tower. He vomits water and struggles to assess his injuries, noting that his arm and stomach are wounded. Diago, the alupi he saved, has dragged him from the river, saving his life. Vis, despite his injuries, crawls higher onto the beach and reflects on the events leading to his fall, particularly Emissa's betrayal.

Vis examines the Heart of Jovan, which he still clutches, and realizes that the tracking plate is missing, suggesting the imbuing has failed. He senses something wrong with himself, attributing it to the effects of the Labyrinth. Determined to survive, Vis starts moving toward Callidus, who is a half-day away. Diago disappears into the undergrowth, occasionally reappearing to scout ahead.

By midday, Vis reaches Callidus’s elevated position and finds him critically injured, lying next to a dead Anguis assassin. Callidus, though conscious, is in a dire state, having been attacked and left for dead. Vis binds Callidus’s wounds and carries him, despite his own injuries. Callidus, delirious, asks Vis to tell his father the truth about his time in Class Seven. Vis promises, feeling a deep sense of responsibility and sorrow.

Vis continues to carry Callidus, talking to him to keep him awake and engaged. Despite his efforts, Callidus slips into unconsciousness and eventually dies. Driven by a fierce sense of duty and vengeance, Vis presses on to the Academy, determined to complete the Iudicium. Upon reaching the quadrum, Vis lays Callidus at Veridius’s feet and confronts Emissa, vowing to make her pay for her actions. With the last of his strength, Vis places the Heart of Jovan on Jovan’s statue and collapses.

Vis drifts in and out of consciousness, tormented by visions of Emissa, Belli, and his father. His father's comforting presence and encouraging words give him a glimmer of strength and resolve, despite feeling alone and broken. When he finally wakes, Veridius is at his side, explaining that he has been immobilized to prevent further injury. Veridius reveals the grim news that Vis's left arm was amputated due to a rot, and warns him about the dangers of his tainted blood. Veridius urges Vis to be honest about the Labyrinth and the mysterious writing on his arm, which guided him out. He then insists that Vis join Religion and become an Imperator under Magnus Tertius Pileus to avoid the next Cataclysm.

Eidhin enters the room, offering comfort and acknowledging the tragic loss of Callidus. He promises to honor Callidus's memory with Vis once he recovers. The door opens again, and three senators, including Magnus Quartus Vaesar, enter. They congratulate Vis on his victory in the Iudicium and ask him to declare his intended assignment upon graduation. Despite Veridius's warnings, Vis decides to join the Censor's office, driven by a desire to make a difference and uncover the truth.

The burning sensation in Vis's arm gradually subsides, but the pain and fear remain. Shivering on the cold stone, he musters the strength to sit up. The eerie red light still illuminates the room, and the stairs loom as the only exit. As he prepares to stand, Vis notices the persistent ache in his left arm and the dark, sticky tunic. Rolling up his sleeve, he sees lines etched into his skin, spelling out 'WAIT'. Frozen in horror, he debates the warning. Minutes later, a new line of blood appears, spelling 'RU'. Panicked, he sprints back through the Labyrinth, but the bracer he dropped is nowhere to be found. Pacing frantically, he spots an inscription on the wall, previously unseen. Written in Vetusian, it reads, 'SEALED AGAINST THE TOOLS OF THE ENEMY AFTER THE RENDING. THE PASSAGE TO LUCEUM REQUIRES A TOLL TO ENSURE VALIDITY', with two circles containing the Hierarchy symbol below. Desperate to escape, Vis places his hands in the circles. A blinding white flash and searing pain in his left shoulder follow, and he collapses, screaming. When the pain eases, he finds himself in a vast rotunda, lying in a pool of blood where his left arm once was. Surrounded by white stone and snow, he realizes he is high in a mountainous region. People rush toward him, speaking in an unfamiliar language. A man with a red beard cradles his head, speaking in rough Vetusian, while a woman argues with him. Vis's vision fades as he loses consciousness.

Still reeling from the burning sensation in his arm, Vis lies on the cold stone, shivering and staring up at the darkness, trying to cover over the pain and fear. A voice penetrates his consciousness, soft and urgent, telling him to get up. A man crouches a few feet away, just beyond the surrounding talons, and introduces himself as Caeror, Ulciscor's supposedly deceased brother. Caeror explains that they have about two minutes to save Vis back in Res and that he needs to trust him and come out of the circle now.

Vis is initially uncertain and asks what Caeror means by 'saving him back in Res.' Caeror, desperate and fretful, explains that Vis has been 'copied' in a manner similar to the world's replication during the war against the Concurrence. He emphasizes that Vis is still strongly connected to Res and Luceum, but this connection will fade fast. Caeror pleads with Vis to trust him, and Vis, realizing he is in over his head, agrees to follow him.

Caeror steadies Vis as he stumbles out of the circle and explains that they need to send a message to Vis in Res to prevent him from moving out of the gate prematurely. He draws a short blade from his belt and hands it to Vis, asking him to pull back his sleeve. The red light in the room flickers, and Caeror's desperation is evident as he urges Vis to hurry.