The chapter takes place in a school that appears to be military-like in nature and follows the principal character, Vis Telimus, as he awaits a possible punishment for having struck another student named Eidhin.
Vis is informed by his teacher, Praeceptor Taedia, that his actions could result in expulsion due to the class rankings at the school.
The principal of the school, Veridius, alongside a student named Iro and teacher Praeceptor Nequias, interrogate Vis on his actions.
Vis explains his actions and apologizes to Eidhin, who seems to mistakenly accept the apology, unbeknownst to the school rules which means Eidhin cannot further pursue the case.
However, Veridius still punishes Vis by assigning him stable duties until the Festival of the Ancestors and warns him not to act out again.
Vis meets with another student, Callidus, who sustained injuries due to the conflict with Eidhin, and realizes Callidus is not welcome among his peers either.
Vis confronts the other students about their treatment of Callidus and tells them off, which leads to him isolating himself from the group.
Despite the events of the day and some fear of what might happen in the future, Vis finally manages to find sleep.