Vis enters Class Three under Praeceptor Nequias’s relentless instruction, grappling with advanced theory, socio-economic analysis, ruins scholarship, and extended Labyrinth sessions. Exhausted but prepared by Lanistia’s prior training, Vis gradually adapts, hardens physically, and begins closing the gap on his classmates, especially in the Labyrinth.

Nequias abruptly announces that the Iudicium will begin sooner than expected and that each Third must recruit two lower-class students, with Fourths able to choose among offers. The rankings suggest predictable bidding, and Vis weighs the risks of recruiting Belli or Aequa. That evening, Emissa asks Vis to promise the competition will not alter their relationship; Vis agrees despite knowing he cannot stay.

The next morning, Vis asks Callidus to join his Iudicium team. Callidus urges Vis to avoid or lose quickly, citing past dangers. When Eidhin arrives, Vis warns him of covered-up deaths linked to the Iudicium; Eidhin accepts immediately, valuing the chance to compete and advance his standing.

After a Labyrinth session, Callidus takes Vis to Class Seven’s dormitory and reveals hidden documents: eight deaths among Thirds and Fourths over recent years during Iudicia, officially recorded as accidents, with further disappearances after graduation. The records suggest a pattern of Religion-enforced secrecy and possible complicity across divisions.

Despite the risks, Vis commits to competing. Callidus, visibly uneasy but loyal, agrees to join after ensuring Vis understands the stakes. Vis resolves to inform Principalis Veridius of his chosen team—Callidus and Eidhin—before lunch.