Initiation Room

Where initiates face physical matches and virtual reality simulations.

In Dauntless, initiation takes place within the faction base where candidates undergo physical matches and virtual reality simulations. The first period involves physical trials, including capture the flag events to determine team victory. The second period places candidates in a simulation of their greatest fears.

Quick Facts

Location: Dauntless base
Key participants: Initiates and Instructors (e.g., Four, Tori)
Notable event: Capture the flag event and fear landscape simulation
Outcome for failure: Being cut from the faction

Lore & Background

Initiation consists of two periods. In the first, performance in physical matches against top-ranked candidates determines if an initiate is cut from the faction. The second period uses a virtual reality simulation to test how candidates deal with their greatest fears. Tris Prior showed an ability to clear obstacles in record time during this phase.

Reader's Guide

Candidates must pass both physical matches and fear simulations to remain in Dauntless. The virtual reality simulation reveals specific fears for each individual; for Tris, these included heights, drowning, intimacy issues, and the death of her family. Instructors like Four assist initiates by providing tips on how to respond as expected by Dauntless.

Did You Know?

Tris Prior had to face a virtual reality simulation where she was attacked by crows, symbolic of lacking power or control.
Tori, Tris's test administrator, told her she was 'Divergent' but warned her never to tell anyone that information.
Four gets his nickname because he has only four fears: heights, shooting innocents, claustrophobia, and his father.