Tory follows the Fire Elementals to their housing, accompanied by Sofia. Internally, she worries about Darcy’s well-being. While Tory has thick skin, Darcy is sensitive. Sofia mentions that Caleb is part of the Vampire Order and hints that there are many other mythical beings among the Fae. Each particular Order replenishes their magic stores in different ways—“Vampires can’t create their own so they have to take it from others” by drawing blood (80). If Caleb decides that he likes the taste of Tory’s power, he might claim her as his own, which cautions other Vampires from feeding on her.

Darius leads the initiates to an arching doorway in a hulking rock. A fire on the platform transforms into a dragon and blows fire over their heads. Only Tory does not flinch. Darius claims that each student must attempt to gain access to the House before they can officially join. Darius underestimates Tory, so she volunteers to go first out of spite. Inside the rock, Tory traverses tunnels. She is confronted by a huge lioness and must run across hot coals that melt the combat boots from her feet. She reaches three robed students who wield fire powers.