Set in

The stone walls have dampness and two heavy, handle-less doors—one in the Northeast and one in the Southwest. Each person is bound in manacles at different cardinal directions. The Vardum logo is on the floor, pointing towards the manacles. They retain their clothing but not their belongings. Ego shares a prophecy from an ancient tome and ponders various questions. The manacles prevent Ego's attempts to escape. A minotaur enters, questioning each character about killing and authority. The minotaur eventually leaves. Izar suggests praying to Thiten. Voices are heard at the other door, and Klutch and two minotaurs enter. They confront Ego about pursuing Tom Tom, and Izar explains their intentions. Klutch recites a passage and reveals herself as part of the branch. Three more minotaurs arrive, one with a mace, one with a great axe, and an older one with a staff. They question the group's identity and release their manacles. The minotaurs mention death and the labyrinth. The chief minotaur and his escorts leave, returning the group's belongings. Klutch is asked to accompany the group, and she agrees. They discuss their training and prepare to enter the labyrinth. The doors vanish, and they search for an entrance. Ego suggests breaking the floor, and Klutch searches for hidden doors. The others investigate the cracked floor.