Call is shocked awake by a loud and shrill alarm. Tamara and Aaron arrive in his room; they point out that a uniform has arrived on his bed. He changes, bringing his knife in his boot. He forgets his armband; Aaron brings it for him.

Call is disgusted by the array of lichen and mushrooms for breakfast but is pleasantly surprised by the taste. He looks at the other Iron Year students, who sit in groups depending on their Masters. Call is with Aaron and Tamara. Jasper, Celia, Gwenda, and Nigel are with Master Milagros, and Drew, Rafe, and Laurel are with Master Lemuel.

Call learns that Aaron has no family and that a girl told him about the Magisterium when she saw him playing with dust motes.

Master Rufus stresses to Call, Tamara, and Aaron that they will be a team for their time at the Magisterium. They leave the Refectory for their first lesson.

Master Rufus takes Call, Tamara, and Aaron in a boat on the underground river, magically instructing the water to move the boat. Both Aaron and Master Rufus attempt to help Call leave the boat, but he refuses both of their help.