Chapter LXI

Summary

• The chapter begins with the protagonist expressing the difficulties of the first few weeks in 'Class Three', which are very demanding and include a variety of subjects: engineering, socio-economic theories, and physical training.
• The protagonist's tutor, Nequias, is severe and unrelenting. Despite knowing Nequias's dislike for him, the protagonist manages to push through the hardships.
• After a month, the protagonist starts to feel comfortable with the routine and even begins to excel at the physical training in the 'Labyrinth', despite Nequias's efforts to keep him down.
• When Nequias announces the early commencement of the Iudicium (an important event associated with the academy), the protagonist is last-ranked, but isn't bothered since nothing can change this.
• The Iudicium is a competition where each student from Class Three has to select two students from the other classes to form a team. The protagonist plans to ask Callidus and Eidhin to join his team.
• When the protagonist reveals his choice to Eidhin, he immediately agrees to join. However, Callidus is hesitant due to the potential danger of the Iudicium. He reveals that there have been incidents of student deaths during the Iudicium that have been covered up by administration.
• Despite his reservations, Callidus finally agrees to join the protagonist's team, underscoring their trust and bond.