The Mystery of Mercy

The Temple of the Mystery of Mercy is one of the mysteries that Steve must go through while attempting to become a member of the Order. It is the last mystery he must go through. After completing this mystery, he is able to go to the Inner Sanctum of the Lodge.

The Temple
Upon entering, Steve finds himself in a large coliseum, like something from the times of the Roman Empire. A large gladiator stands there, with an elderly couple on their knees nearby. The gladiator declares to Steve that he's just in time for a "little retirement ceremony", and demands Steve execute the elderly couple. He explains that this is how old people are dealt with in the Lodge, and every member must do their share.

If Steve refuses to do it, he calls it an "unfortunate decision" and attacks Steve.

The Mystery
"'Thus is the mystery of mercy: life is a competition and mercy a perversion of the natural order. When you extend mercy to a competitor, you give him a second chance to beat you.'"

Trivia

 * Even if he chooses to spare the elderly couple, Steve is still able to kill them after killing the gladiator.
 * If Steve examines the gladiator's body after killing him, Steve will find a sword to add to his inventory.