Earlier in the trials when Sandro followed after Alexander.
When Sandro caught up with Alexander, the two found themselves working together in a newly formed alliance. During the initial rush of Ascended, Sandro proposed that they team up. Alexander, however, was understandably hesitant. He found Sandro's friendly demeanor somewhat off-putting.
To Alexander, it was fine to be sociable when the trials weren't underway, but working with others during the trials felt risky. There was always the possibility of betrayal, as securing a place in the next trial often came at someone else's expense.
Sandro, undeterred, made a compelling case. "My primary goal is to get the antidote and pass this trial," he explained. "I also want to recruit another ally into the alliance I'm part of. You should know that we—myself, you, and my allies—aren't the only highly skilled combatants remaining. We're just the ones who chose not to hide our strength." Sandro continued in a showman-like manner, gesturing animatedly as he spoke. "So, here's my offer: work with me. If we find an antidote, you can have it. All I ask in return is that you join my alliance."
Alexander mulled over the proposition. He seems friendly, but I'm unsure how trustworthy he is. There's something mischievous about him. Still, the idea of allying with him isn't terrible—if what he says is true. Allies could help reduce the likelihood of unexpected situations, provided they're reliable. That remains to be seen.
After a moment's thought, Alexander nodded in agreement, his expression serious. Without further delay, the two set off in search of the antidote.
...
Their search led them to a newly constructed urban commercial area of the city, known to locals as the Labyrinth. The name stemmed from its layout—dozens of homes and businesses packed closely together, creating a maze of twisting paths, multiple routes, and narrow walkways.
Sandro and Alexander chose this area because of its newness, reasoning that features might have been added specifically for the trials.
Given that the area was also residential, conflict between Ascended would likely be minimal. While property damage during the trials was permissible, injuring civilians unnecessarily could result in punishment.
As they navigated the intricate pathways, Alexander began to suspect he had made a mistake in teaming up with Sandro—though for an unexpected reason. Throughout their search, Sandro simply wouldn't stop talking. "So, I was in the middle of painting when I ran out of a certain color, I needed..."
As they made their way through the busy streets, Sandro continued talking endlessly, much to Alexander's growing frustration. Normally, conversation didn't bother Alexander, but Sandro wasn't discussing anything he deemed useful—like strategies for dealing with other Ascended who might have found the antidote, or how to approach such encounters.
Despite Alexander's obvious annoyance, Sandro carried on, unfazed. "There's a stall selling pastries—do you want to get…" he began, only to be abruptly interrupted as Alexander gripped his shoulder tightly.
It was clear Alexander was at his limit. Feeling slighted and irritated, he began reaching behind his back for his short sword. But just as he was about to draw it, he stopped abruptly.
He noticed Sandro's expression had shifted. Sandro's curious gaze wasn't focused on him despite Alexander's threatening posture. Recognizing this, Alexander released Sandro's shoulder and stepped back, asking, "What is it you've seen?"
With a smirk, Sandro pointed in the direction he had been staring and replied, "Look at the signs above the stores. From this angle, they all come together to form an arrow."
Alexander followed Sandro's gaze, observing the signs carefully. He's right—they do form an arrow, and it seems to be pointing toward an alleyway.
Despite acknowledging the clue internally, Alexander had no intention of giving Sandro credit. His earlier vexation still lingered, and he wasn't ready to overlook it just yet.
The two then proceeded to walk down the winding alleyway reaching a section that had multiple paths.
Alexander didn't speak a word although he did give Sandro a look. The look Sandro was given was rather obvious and he responded to in his usual carefree and eccentric manner, "Relax the clues to the correct path are here I just need to look for them.''