Chapter XLVI

Summary

• The protagonist speaks to Callidus after moving up to Class Five. Despite the upgrade in facilities, he agonizes over an anger problem which seems to be causing fear among his peers.
• The protagonist fakes contrition and confides something about an illegitimate son, a scandal, a government coverup involving the Census, and the potential for consequences for both them and a senator. Callidus is convinced by this, placing trust in the protagonist.
• The protagonist and Callidus begin their usual early morning sparring session. Callidus fights better, but he seems to be troubled. The protagonist asks about it, and Callidus reveals that being in Class Three or Four is dangerous. Many students of these classes have died in the past. Coin and favor have been used to silence the victims' families, and further silence rules are in place at the Academy. The story is linked to a greater mystery at the Academy.
• Callidus admits that information about the death cycle came from his father via the Census. This secret, if revealed, would ruin their family and so the protagonist promises to keep it to themselves.
• The protagonist thanks Callidus for the warning, but their plan to move up in classes remains unchanged.
• The protagonist has a pleasant few weeks at the Academy studying with Callidus. They also study with another student Emissa learning far advanced theory, which helps him learn a lot more about the workings of the Hierarchy.
• Eidhin's tutoring sessions also continue and progress well. Other students are civil and slightly easier to interact with, though caution remains following the protagonist's fight with Ianix.
• The protagonist is promoted to Class Four in his fourth week under Praeceptor Taedia, proving Callidus' warnings accurate.