Chapter LV

Summary

• The protagonist engages in a grueling day of training with Class Three, involving physical exertion, academic debates, and mathematical quizzing. The protagonist notes a significant skill gap between themselves and Class Three.
• The protagonist walks through the palace hallways alone, meeting Indol who expresses regret over how they were treated earlier. The protagonist reassures Indol, saying it's not necessary to confront his father about it.
• During their conversation, Indol reveals that Emissa may be swimming alone in a dangerous lagoon. The protagonist rushes towards the lagoon, fearing Emissa may be in danger due to strong tides.
• The protagonist spots Emissa struggling against the current in the water. Calculating her location and trajectory, the protagonist jumps from a bluff into the water to reach her.
• The protagonist manages to reach Emissa and instructs her on how to stay calm and survive in the dangerous waters. They slowly swim out of the current and towards the shoreline, taking shelter in a nearby cave.
• In the cave, Emissa apologizes but doesn't specify for what. She breaks into tears and they share a moment of intimacy, culminating in a kiss.
• The next day, the protagonist considers the potential consequences of their actions. Knowing that Ulciscor warned them to maintain distance with Emissa, they plan to feign illness to prevent arousing any suspicion.
• On their journey back to the palace, Emissa unexpectedly reveals a secret: Indol plans to leave the Military to join Religion after graduation, a shocking deviation from tradition. Emissa warns the protagonist to keep this secret.
• Upon returning to the palace, Ulciscor confronts the protagonist about their sudden departure and closeness with Emissa. He then presses the protagonist to run the Labyrinth during the Iudicium to find proof of Caeror's death.
• Despite the protagonist's objections, Ulciscor remains firm and threatens to send the protagonist to a Sapper if they fail to fulfil his commands. Ulciscor demonstrates his relentless obsession with finding the truth about Caeror's death.
• Lanistia, seemingly empathetic towards the protagonist, advises them to train hard to survive the Labyrinth. She expresses concern for the protagonist's safety before departing.