Nick leads a mesmered Bree through the forest toward the first trial site and explains that all competing Pages are blinded so no one can gain an advantage. As they walk, Bree asks about the Line of Morgaine, and Nick describes them as a rogue sect of Merlins who broke from the Order, became enemies of the Regents, and led to strict control over aether use.

Bree realizes the unknown aether user at the hospital after Faye’s death might have been a Morgaine rather than an Order Merlin. Nick admits the possibility, though only a Merlin present at the scene could tell the difference. Bree also tells Nick that other Pages think she is trying to become Nick’s Squire through manipulation, and their teasing conversation turns intimate before Nick leaves briefly to check the trial site.

While Bree waits alone, Sel appears and threatens her again, saying Nick’s interest protects Bree for now but also keeps Sel close enough to expose her. Bree, angered by Sel’s intimidation and by the racism she has faced, argues that Sel lacks proof and risks looking incompetent if Sel reports Bree without evidence. Sel responds with amusement and menace, saying he wants to tear out Bree’s tongue, then leaves.

Nick returns, and Bree tells Nick what happened. Nick explains that through the Kingsmage Oath, Nick can sense Sel’s murderous intent and Sel can sense when Nick is in mortal danger, which is why Nick knew Sel was nearby the previous night. Nick then brings Bree to the arena, where Bree learns she has been paired with Sydney, who distrusts everyone but must cooperate with Bree to advance.

The first trial requires each two-Person team to move three weighted Onceborn mannequins across a cleared field while surviving enormous hellboar constructs created by Sel’s aether. Bree and Sydney watch the first three teams compete. Vaughn and Spencer use a fighter-runner strategy and finish first; Greer saves Carson from a boar and completes the task; Whitty and Blake struggle but still finish. With the first round over, Bree and Sydney are next.