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The story follows Violet Sorrengail, a young woman who is forced by her mother, General Sorrengail, to join the Riders Quadrant, an elite group of dragon riders, despite her lack of experience and physical limitations. As Violet navigates the challenges of the Riders Quadrant, she faces numerous obstacles, including hostile cadets, treacherous training exercises, and the complexities of her own emotions. She also discovers that she has a unique bond with two dragons, Tairn and Andarna, and that she possesses a rare and powerful signet power as a lightning wielder. Throughout the story, Violet's relationships with her peers, particularly Xaden Riorson, a mysterious and intimidating wing leader, evolve and become increasingly complex. As Violet confronts the dangers of the Riders Quadrant and the secrets surrounding the kingdom's history, she must also navigate her own feelings and loyalties, ultimately leading to a dramatic and unexpected conclusion. Along the way, Violet uncovers hidden truths about the kingdom, the Riders Quadrant, and herself, and must make difficult choices to protect those she cares about and uncover the truth. The story is a thrilling and emotional ride, full of action, suspense, and romance, as Violet grows from a vulnerable and uncertain young woman into a confident and powerful dragon rider.
The story begins on Conscription Day, where thousands of twenty-year-olds gather to enter their chosen quadrant for military service. The protagonist, Violet, is forced by her mother, General Sorrengail, to join the Riders Quadrant, an elite group of dragon riders, despite Violet's lack of experience and physical limitations. Violet's sister, Mira, a skilled rider, tries to prepare her for the challenges ahead and warns her about the dangers of the quadrant, including a certain cadet named Xaden Riorson, who is rumored to be vengeful towards the Sorrengail family. As Violet prepares to cross the parapet, a treacherous stone bridge that separates the candidates from the cadets, she meets other candidates, including Rhiannon and Dylan. However, the crossing becomes even more perilous when a sudden rainstorm hits, and Dylan falls to his death. Xaden Riorson, who is revealed to be the son of a rebel leader executed by General Sorrengail, appears to be waiting for Violet to make her attempt, his intentions unclear.
Violet Sorrengail, still reeling from the death of Dylan, musters her courage to cross the treacherous parapet in the midst of a raging storm. As she begins her perilous journey, she's met with hostility from a fellow candidate, Jack Barlowe, who mocks her balance and threatens to push her off. Despite the danger, Violet focuses on her knowledge of geography and history to calm her mind and steady her steps. However, when Jack throws another candidate off the parapet, Violet's fear turns to panic, and she must dig deep to find the strength to keep moving. As she nears the end of the parapet, Jack gives chase, but Violet manages to outmaneuver him, using her knowledge of the Codex to threaten him into submission. With her dagger pressed against his groin, Violet forces Jack to back down, and he's allowed to enter the courtyard, but not before vowing to kill her. Violet's bravery and quick thinking have saved her life, but she knows that this is only the beginning of her challenges in the Riders Quadrant.
Violet, still reeling from her ordeal on the parapet, is greeted by her old friend Dain, a second-year rider, who is shocked to see her in the Riders Quadrant. Despite his initial attempt to get her to leave, Violet is determined to stay and prove herself. Dain eventually relents and helps her get settled, but not before warning her of the dangers that lie ahead. As the new cadets gather in the courtyard, they are addressed by Commandant Panchek and the senior wingleader, Nyra, who explain the harsh realities of the Riders Quadrant. The cadets are then divided into squads and wings, with Violet being assigned to Fourth Wing, led by the enigmatic and intimidating Xaden. The atmosphere becomes even more tense with the arrival of the dragons, who demonstrate their power and ferocity by incinerating several cadets who attempt to flee. Xaden uses this opportunity to drive home the point that the cadets are not special or invincible, but rather prey to be tested and proven worthy of becoming dragon riders.
The story continues with Violet attending a memorial service for the candidates who died during the parapet crossing, where she learns that 56 candidates have lost their lives. After the service, Violet's squad leader, Dain, secretly meets with her in the rotunda to discuss her safety and the fact that Xaden Riorson, their wing leader, wants her dead. Dain reveals that Xaden moved their squad to Fourth Wing to have a direct line to Violet and to exact revenge on her family. Dain also shares his unique signet power, which allows him to read people's recent memories, and warns Violet to keep a low profile. However, their conversation is cut short when Xaden appears, watching Violet with hostility. As the situation escalates, Dain steps in to protect Violet, and Xaden makes a comment about their apparent close relationship, prompting Dain to tell Violet to run. Violet flees the scene, unsure of what will happen next.
Violet attends her first Battle Brief class, where Professor Devera and Professor Markham discuss a recent attack on a village by Braevi gryphons and riders. The class analyzes the situation, and Violet impresses the professors with her critical thinking skills, despite being a first-year cadet. Later, during combat training, Violet struggles with hand-to-hand combat and is paired against a second-year cadet, Imogen, who has a personal vendetta against Violet's family. The fight is intense, and Imogen tries to use her powers and a dagger to gain the upper hand, but Violet's armor, made by her sister Mira, saves her life. Despite being outmatched, Violet refuses to yield, and Imogen ultimately wins the fight, but not before Violet lands a few good hits. The fight ends with Violet suffering a severe injury to her shoulder, and she is forced to yield.
Violet is carried by Dain to the Healer Quadrant after suffering a severe injury to her shoulder during a sparring match. Despite Dain's objections, Nolon, a mender and an old family friend, is called to mend Violet's broken arm and dislocated shoulder. Violet insists on being mended, but only this once, as she believes that relying on mending too often will make her appear weak to the other cadets. After the mending process, which is extremely painful, Violet returns to the barracks, where she meets up with her friend Rhiannon. Violet finds a journal hidden in her bunk, which belongs to her late brother Brennan, and was sneaked in by her sister Mira. The journal contains Brennan's wisdom and advice on how to survive in the Riders Quadrant, including a map of the classrooms and instructors' meeting places, and a secret about how the instructors assign matches. With this new information, Violet begins to formulate a plan to prepare for the upcoming challenges and increase her chances of survival.
Violet sneaks out of the citadel after curfew to gather rare and potentially deadly fonilee berries, which she plans to use to her advantage in the upcoming challenges. While climbing a tree to reach the berries, she overhears a secret meeting between a group of marked ones, including Xaden Riorson and Imogen, who are gathered in violation of the Basgiath War College Code of Conduct. The group is discussing their struggles and receiving guidance from the more experienced riders, including Xaden, who is revealed to be a shadow wielder with rare and powerful abilities. When Violet is discovered by Xaden, she prepares to defend herself, but instead of attacking her, he seems to be playing a game of cat and mouse, returning her daggers and warning her about another student who has vowed to kill her. Xaden appears to be intrigued by Violet's decision not to report the illegal meeting, and he hints that he may owe her a favor as a result. The encounter ends with Xaden disappearing into the shadows, leaving Violet to wonder about his true intentions and motivations.
Violet continues to navigate the challenges of the Riders Quadrant, using her intelligence and resourcefulness to outmaneuver her opponents in the weekly combat challenges. With the help of secretly administered substances, she wins several matches, earning her a collection of daggers and a reputation as a formidable opponent. Meanwhile, her relationships with Dain and Rhiannon deepen, and she must confront the complexities of her feelings for Dain. As the challenges progress, Violet faces increasingly tough opponents, but her determination and strategic thinking allow her to stay ahead. However, her latest victory is short-lived, as she is unexpectedly paired against Xaden, the enigmatic and intimidating wing leader, in the next challenge. Violet's confidence is shaken, and she must prepare to face her most daunting opponent yet.
Violet faces off against Xaden in a combat challenge, and despite her best efforts, she is thoroughly outmaneuvered and disarmed by him. However, instead of killing her, Xaden uses the opportunity to teach her valuable lessons about combat and strategy. Later, Dain reveals that he has spoken to Colonel Markham about the threats against Violet and has been offered a way to get her out of the Riders Quadrant and into the Scribe Quadrant for her own safety. Dain's actions spark a mix of emotions in Violet, including anger, hurt, and fear, as she feels that he doesn't believe in her ability to succeed as a rider. Despite this, Dain's concern for her safety and well-being ultimately leads Violet to consider his proposal and promise to think about it.
Violet and her squad face the daunting challenge of the Gauntlet, a treacherous obstacle course carved into the side of a cliff. As they attempt to navigate the course, tensions rise within the squad, and Violet's own fears and doubts resurface. Despite her best efforts, she struggles to complete the course, and her squadmate Aurelie falls to her death. The loss weighs heavily on Violet, and she begins to question her own chances of survival in the Riders Quadrant. In a surprising encounter, Xaden Riorson appears, and instead of attacking her, he offers a cryptic warning and advice on how to overcome her limitations. Violet is left to ponder her own resolve and the true nature of hope in the face of overwhelming adversity.
Violet faces her biggest challenge yet as she attempts to complete the Gauntlet, a treacherous obstacle course, in order to reach the flight field for Presentation Day. Despite her physical limitations, she uses her intelligence and resourcefulness to overcome the obstacles, including using a rope and her dagger to climb up a chimney and scale a wooden ramp. Her unorthodox methods are met with accusations of cheating from another wingleader, Amber, but Violet uses her knowledge of the Codex to argue that she is within her rights to use items she carried across the parapet. Xaden, her wing leader, ultimately rules in her favor, and Violet is able to complete the course and join her squad at the top. However, her victory comes at a cost, as she has severely injured her hands and is left to deal with the pain and aftermath of her actions.
The story continues with Violet and her squad participating in Presentation Day, where they must walk past a line of dragons to see if any will bond with them. The atmosphere is tense, and Violet is anxious about the encounter. As they walk, they notice a small golden dragon, a feathertail, which is unusual and unexpected. The squad's dynamics are also on display, with some members, like Tynan and Luca, showing their true colors as arrogant and insulting. When a red dragon suddenly breathes fire, killing Pryor, the squad is shocked and frightened. Violet must navigate this traumatic event and continue on, eventually drawing the attention of two green dragons. In a surprising turn of events, the dragons seem to recognize the scales of Violet's sister's dragon, Teine, which are sewn into her vest, and they interact with her in a unique and intriguing way. The chapter ends with Violet and her squad escaping the presentation, but not without some of them revealing their true personalities and the dragons making their opinions known.
Violet participates in the Threshing, a ritual where first-year cadets enter a forested valley to bond with dragons. She navigates the valley, encountering various dragons, but none seem to connect with her. Meanwhile, she overhears Jack, Tynan, and Oren planning to kill a rare golden feathertail dragon, which they consider weak and unrideable. Violet decides to intervene, warning the dragon and standing up to the trio, despite being at a disadvantage due to her injured ankle. Just as the situation escalates, Xaden appears with his dragon, Sgaeyl, and warns the group to reconsider their actions, potentially saving Violet and the golden dragon from harm.
Violet finds herself in a desperate fight for survival against her squadmates, Jack, Tynan, and Oren, who are determined to kill her and the rare golden feathertail dragon. Despite being outnumbered and outmatched, Violet uses her intelligence, resourcefulness, and combat skills to hold her own, but she suffers serious injuries in the process. Just as all hope seems lost, a massive black dragon, Tairneanach, appears and intervenes, killing Tynan and saving Violet's life. To her surprise, Tairneanach chooses her as his rider and orders her to climb onto his back, which she manages to do despite her injuries and his enormous size. As they take to the sky, Violet struggles to stay seated and maintain her grip, but she eventually loses her hold and finds herself in free fall, plummeting towards the ground.
Violet, still reeling from her intense flight with Tairneanach, navigates the aftermath of their bonding. As they land in the training field, she's met with a mixture of awe and fear from the other riders and dragons. Tairneanach reveals that he chose Violet because of her bravery and cunning, and that he can read her thoughts. Violet is both thrilled and intimidated by this newfound mental bond. As she dismounts and approaches the roll-keeper to register their bond, she's met with skepticism and surprise from the officials, including her mother, General Sorrengail. However, the biggest shock comes when the golden dragon, Andarna, reveals that she has also chosen Violet as her rider, sending the crowd into chaos. Violet is left to navigate the implications of this unprecedented event, with Tairneanach's guidance and support.
Violet, now bonded to two dragons, Tairn and Andarna, faces the aftermath of the Threshing ceremony, where the dragons have chosen their riders. The generals are in disagreement about Violet's unique situation, but ultimately, the decision is left to the Empyrean, the dragon leadership. The dragons return with a decision, and General Melgren announces that Tairn and Andarna's choice of Violet stands, as there is no dragon law against one rider being chosen by two dragons. Violet is relieved and feels a sense of belonging to her dragons and, unexpectedly, to Xaden, whose dragon, Sgaeyl, is mated to Tairn. Xaden warns Violet that she is now a target for the unbonded riders, who will try to kill her to get Tairn to bond with them. The chapter ends with Violet being marked by her dragons' magic and sharing a kiss with Dain, but feeling disappointed and unfulfilled by the experience.
Violet navigates her new life as a bonded rider, dealing with the aftermath of the Threshing ceremony and the power shift in the Riders Quadrant. She notices that social dynamics have changed, with some cadets who were previously hostile towards her now being friendly, likely due to her newfound status as a powerful rider. Imogen, a second-year cadet who had previously clashed with Violet, offers to help her with training, revealing that Xaden Riorson has ordered her to do so. Violet begins flight lessons with her dragon, Tairn, but struggles to stay seated during maneuvers, leading to a series of embarrassing falls. Despite this, she perseveres and continues to work on strengthening her muscles to improve her riding skills. Meanwhile, Violet's relationships with her peers continue to evolve, including a conversation with Dain, where they both acknowledge that their kiss was a mistake and that they value their friendship. Violet also starts training with Imogen, who is harsh but effective, and meets Garrick, a first-year Tyr, in the training room. Throughout the chapter, Violet's thoughts and feelings about Xaden Riorson are woven throughout, revealing a complex mix of emotions, including attraction and wariness.
Violet visits the Archives, a sacred place in the Basgiath War College, where she reunites with her friend Jesinia, now a scribe. They discuss Violet's new life as a rider and her experiences with her dragons, Tairn and Andarna. Meanwhile, Sawyer, a member of Violet's squad, reveals his signet power, which allows him to manipulate metals. Later, during flight training, Dain confronts Violet about her struggles with flying and expresses his concerns for her safety. Violet, feeling frustrated and hurt by Dain's lack of faith in her, lashes out at him and they have a falling out. The situation escalates when a first-year cadet, Jeremiah, manifests his signet power as an inntinnsic, allowing him to read minds. Chaos erupts as Jeremiah's power reveals the thoughts of those around him, including Dain's feelings for Violet. Professor Carr intervenes, breaking Jeremiah's neck to silence him. The chapter ends with Violet reflecting on the dangers of signet powers and the consequences of not manifesting one. That night, Violet is ambushed in her room by a group of unbonded cadets seeking to kill her and claim Tairn for themselves. Just as all hope seems lost, Andarna intervenes, using her powers to freeze everyone in the room except Violet, allowing her to escape.
Violet is attacked in her room by a group of unbonded cadets, but she is saved by Andarna, her feathertail dragon, who uses her unique gift to pause time. Xaden arrives and kills the attackers, then takes Violet to a secret tunnel that leads to the flight field, where they meet with Tairn, Sgaeyl, and Andarna. It is revealed that Andarna is a two-year-old hatchling, and her bonding with Violet is unprecedented. Andarna's gift allows her to pause time, and Violet has inherited this ability. Xaden warns Violet that she must keep this secret, as it could put her in danger if others find out. They discuss the implications of Andarna's gift and the potential consequences if it is discovered. Xaden also expresses his concern about how the attackers were able to enter Violet's room, and Violet hints that she saw a rider who unlocked the door from the outside, but she doesn't reveal the rider's identity. The chapter ends with Xaden's warning to Violet that their lives depend on trusting each other, and he demands to know who the mysterious rider was.
The chapter begins with Captain Fitzgibbons reading the death roll, announcing the names of those who have died, including six riders who attempted to kill Violet in her sleep. Xaden appears, revealing that he interrupted the attack and executed the would-be murderers. He then accuses Wingleader Amber Mavis of orchestrating the attack, citing Article Three, Section Two of the Dragon Rider's Codex. The courtyard erupts into chaos as Amber denies the accusation, and Xaden calls for a quorum to address the breach of the Codex. The wingleaders form a quorum, and with the help of Tairn, Violet's dragon, they share a memory that confirms Amber's guilt. The wingleaders find Amber guilty, and she is sentenced to death by fire. Despite Violet's pleas for mercy, Tairn carries out the sentence, incinerating Amber with a blast of fire. The chapter ends with Claidh, Amber's dragon, mourning her rider's death.
Violet attends a Battle Brief class where Professors Devera and Markham discuss the Battle of Gianfar, a pivotal battle in the unification of Navarre that occurred over six centuries ago. The class analyzes the battle, but Violet is distracted by the fact that they are not discussing the recent attack on the village of Sumerton, which she learned about earlier in the day. She had read about the attack on a scroll that was not marked as classified, but her friend Liam suggests that she must have missed the classification. Meanwhile, Violet's relationships with her peers continue to evolve, including her interactions with Liam, who is assigned to shadow her, and Xaden, who seems to be watching her from afar. Violet also learns that Xaden had warded her door to protect her from potential threats, which makes her feel both grateful and uneasy. As the class progresses, Violet struggles to focus on the lesson, feeling that it is irrelevant to the current situation and that the professors are not providing them with the information they need to stay safe.
Violet struggles to control her emotions and navigate her relationships with her peers, particularly Xaden, as she continues to face challenges in the Riders Quadrant. During a sparring session, she finds herself distracted by Xaden's shirtless physique and later confronts him about his behavior towards her. Xaden agrees to teach her how to shield against Tairn's emotions, which are overwhelming her, and they share a intense and passionate kiss. However, Xaden stops them, realizing that Violet's desire is not entirely her own, but rather influenced by Tairn's emotions. He sends her away, and Violet is left to grapple with her feelings and the consequences of her actions.
Violet prepares for her upcoming challenge against Jack Barlowe, who has been seeking to kill her since the beginning of their time in the Riders Quadrant. Despite her physical limitations, Violet uses her intelligence and resourcefulness to outmaneuver Jack, but the fight takes a dark turn when he uses his powers to force violent energy into her body. Violet manages to turn the tables by using a vial of orange extract, to which Jack is severely allergic, and he collapses. The chapter ends with Violet waking up in the Healer Quadrant infirmary, where Xaden is waiting for her, looking concerned and angry.
Violet continues to face challenges in the Riders Quadrant, including her struggles with wielding and her complicated relationships with her peers, particularly Xaden. After a confrontation with her mother, General Sorrengail, Violet's confidence is shaken, but Xaden's words and actions suggest that he may be developing feelings for her. As they spend more time together, Violet learns to navigate her emotions and trust Xaden, who is teaching her to defend herself and prepare for the dangers of the front lines. Meanwhile, the mystery of Andarna's powers and the secrets surrounding feathertails remain unresolved, and Violet must balance her loyalty to her family with her growing bond with Xaden and her dragons, Tairn and Andarna.
The Squad Battle reaches its final task, where squads must find and acquire something that would be most advantageous to their enemies regarding the war effort. Without their squad leaders, the riders must work together to complete the mission. Violet's squad, led by Imogen, decides to break into General Sorrengail's office to steal valuable information. They use their unique skills, such as Quinn's astral projection and Nadine's ability to unweave wards, to infiltrate the office and retrieve a valuable map showing the locations of all current outposts of Navarrian wings, troop strength, and skirmishes. They successfully escape and present the map to the professors, causing a stir among the riders and professors. Despite the chaos, Violet feels a sense of satisfaction and pride in their accomplishment, and she shares a moment of triumph with Xaden, who seems to be impressed by her cunning and determination.
Violet and her squad arrive at the Montserrat outpost, where they will be spending a week as part of their training. During their stay, Rhiannon reveals that her village is nearby, and she wants to visit her family. Violet agrees to help her, and they come up with a plan to sneak out of the outpost. Mira, Violet's sister, is stationed at the outpost and discovers their plan. Instead of stopping them, she decides to join them, and they successfully visit Rhiannon's family. During their visit, Violet and Mira have a heart-to-heart conversation, discussing Violet's experiences in the Riders Quadrant, her relationships with Dain and Xaden, and Mira's own experiences as a rider. Mira also shares her thoughts on the potential dangers of their power and the importance of being mindful of those who might seek to exploit it. As they prepare to leave, Xaden appears, having been watching them from the shadows.
Violet and her squad are at the Montserrat outpost, where they participate in a battle briefing exercise led by Mira, Violet's sister. The exercise involves strategizing how to take back a keep occupied by enemy forces. Xaden, the wing leader, is present and his abilities as a shadow wielder are showcased. Tensions arise between Xaden and Dain, with Mira intervening to remind them of their responsibilities as squad leaders. After the exercise, Mira speaks with Xaden and Violet, expressing her concerns about Xaden's influence on Violet and the challenges they will face due to their mated dragons. Meanwhile, a warning is received about an incoming attack by gryphons, and Mira orders Violet and Xaden to flee the outpost for their safety. Violet is reluctant to leave her sister behind, but Xaden convinces her to go, and they escape on their dragons, Tairn and Sgaeyl, as the gryphons approach the outpost. Before they leave, Xaden and Violet share a passionate kiss, and Xaden tells her to leave for his sake, knowing she will hate him for making her abandon her sister.
Violet, now bonded to two dragons, Tairn and Andarna, is preparing for the War Games, a simulated battle that signifies the approach of graduation. She is anxious about the upcoming challenge, but with the help of her dragons and her wing leader, Xaden, she feels more confident. As the game begins, Violet's squad is tasked with defending a flag while also trying to steal an egg from the opposing team, First Wing. The battle is intense, with dragons clashing and riders fighting for control. When Liam is injured by Jack, a rival rider, Violet uses Andarna's unique gift to pause time and save Liam's life. With her power surging out of control, Violet unleashes a blast of lightning that destroys the tower where Jack is hiding, killing him. The chapter ends with Violet realizing she has manifested her signet power as a lightning wielder, a rare and powerful ability.
Violet is struggling to come to terms with her newfound signet power, which she used to kill Jack Barlowe in a battle simulation. She is haunted by the fact that she took a life, even though it was in defense of her friend Liam. Xaden, her wing leader, tries to reassure her that her power is a valuable asset in the war against their enemies, but Violet is torn between her desire to do good and her revulsion at the idea of being a killer. As she grapples with her emotions, Xaden appears at her door, and they share a passionate kiss, with Violet finally giving in to her feelings for him. Despite the intensity of their attraction, Xaden's calm and collected demeanor remains, and he encourages Violet to express her emotions and work through her guilt. The chapter ends with Violet and Xaden embracing, as Violet begins to confront the complexities of her power and her place in the world of dragon riders.
Violet's relationship with Xaden reaches a boiling point as they finally give in to their desires and share a passionate night together. However, their intimacy is short-lived, as Xaden disappears before dawn, leaving Violet to wonder about the implications of their actions. Meanwhile, Professor Carr arrives, informing Violet that she's been taken off Archives duty due to her unpredictable lightning powers. He takes her to a remote location in the mountains to train her in controlling her abilities, warning her that her powers could be a liability if not harnessed properly. As Violet struggles to master her lightning wielding, Xaden's presence makes itself known, and he inadvertently helps her tap into her powers. Despite the challenges ahead, Violet is determined to learn control and prove herself as a worthy rider, all while navigating the complexities of her feelings for Xaden and the dangers that come with their forbidden relationship.
Violet is dealing with the aftermath of her complicated relationship with Xaden, who has made it clear that he doesn't want to fall for her. She's trying to focus on her training and upcoming graduation, but can't help the feelings she has for him. Meanwhile, she's also navigating the complexities of her friendships and relationships with her peers, including Liam, who is struggling with his own identity and loyalties. As the group celebrates Reunification Day, Violet is forced to confront the tensions and politics of the Basgiath War College, including the king's presence and the scrutiny of her mother, General Sorrengail. Despite the challenges, Violet is determined to be true to herself and follow her heart, even if it means taking risks and facing uncertainty. She eventually seeks out Xaden, who is struggling with his own demons, and finds him on the parapet, a place that holds significant memories for her.
Violet walks the parapet in a dress uniform, barefoot, and in the dark to reach Xaden, who is sitting on the edge, staring at the moon. She risks her life to talk to him, and they finally confront their feelings for each other. Xaden admits he's wanted Violet from the start and is tired of fighting his emotions. They share a passionate night together, and Violet confesses her love for him. As they make love, Violet's powers get out of control, and she blows out Xaden's window. Despite the destruction, they continue to be intimate, and their connection deepens. However, their night is interrupted by Garrick, who informs them that the quadrant is under attack, and they need to report to formation immediately.
Violet is awoken in the middle of the night for a mandatory formation, where she learns that the War Games, a simulated battle, are about to begin. The riders are tasked with defending a region and responding to a simulated attack on the borders. Xaden, the wing leader, is assigned to establish his headquarters at Athebyne, beyond the wards, and chooses Violet, Liam, and Imogen to join him. Dain, Violet's friend and squad leader, objects to her going with Xaden, citing the dangers of being beyond the wards and questioning Xaden's motives. Despite Dain's concerns, Violet decides to trust Xaden and follow him, leading to a rift between her and Dain. As the riders prepare to depart, Violet says goodbye to her friends and embarks on a new journey with Xaden, leaving her old life behind.
Violet and her squad, led by Xaden, fly to the Athebyne outpost, stopping at a lake to rest and hydrate. As they prepare to continue their journey, Xaden and Violet share a moment of intimacy, but are interrupted by the arrival of two gryphon riders. The situation becomes tense, and Xaden tries to calm Violet down, warning her to stay calm and trust him. Despite the danger, Xaden approaches the gryphon riders, accompanied by Garrick, and a confrontation ensues. Violet's instincts tell her to defend herself and her squad, but Xaden's actions suggest that he may have a plan to resolve the situation peacefully. As the standoff continues, Violet's emotions are in turmoil, and she is forced to trust Xaden and wait for his next move.
Violet's world is turned upside down as she discovers that Xaden, the person she trusted and loved, has been working with the enemy, specifically gryphon riders. The gryphon riders warn Xaden and his squad about an impending attack by venin, mythical creatures that are said to wield dark magic. Xaden reveals that he has been giving the gryphon riders weapons to fight the venin, and that the venin are real and are a threat to the entire continent. Violet is forced to confront the fact that everything she thought she knew about her kingdom and its history may be a lie. As she struggles to come to terms with this new information, she and her squad arrive at the Athebyne outpost, only to find it empty and abandoned. They soon discover that they have been set up to die, and that Dain, Violet's friend and squad leader, may have played a role in their betrayal. With their lives in danger, Violet and her squad must navigate this treacherous situation and figure out who they can trust.
Violet and her squad face a dire situation as they try to defend the trading post of Resson from an attack by venin and wyvern. Despite being outnumbered, they fight bravely, with Violet using her lightning powers to take down several wyvern. However, they suffer a devastating loss when Deigh, Liam's dragon, is killed by a wyvern, and Liam soon follows, dying in Violet's arms. Xaden creates a wall of shadow to hold off the horde of wyvern, giving Violet time to come up with a plan to take them down. With her emotions in turmoil and her desire for revenge burning bright, Violet prepares to face the wyvern, determined to show them exactly how violent she can be. As she and Tairn take to the skies, they are met with a new threat, and Violet's fate hangs in the balance.
Violet finds herself in a desperate battle against the venin and their created wyvern, with her side wounded and burning from the venomous dagger. She comes up with a plan to take out the venin riders, which will cause the wyvern to fall, and convinces Xaden to drop his shadows and let her try. With Tairn's help, Violet uses her signet power to strike the venin rider, and with Andarna's golden power, she is able to pause time and control the lightning to kill the venin. As the venin falls, more than half of the wyvern plummet to the ground, and Xaden takes out the last venin rider. However, Violet's wound is too severe, and she falls from Tairn's back, leaving Xaden to scream out her name in desperation.
Violet is gravely injured and poisoned after being stabbed by a venin rider's dagger. She is unable to access her powers or feel her bond with her dragons, Tairn and Andarna. Xaden and his squad are trying to save her, but they are unsure of the type of poison used and its antidote. They decide to take her to a mysterious location, despite the risks, in an attempt to find a cure. As they journey, Violet's condition worsens, and she is in and out of consciousness, experiencing intense pain and hallucinations. Xaden is desperate to save her and is willing to take any risk, even if it means putting himself and others in danger. The squad's dynamics are tense, with some members questioning Xaden's decisions and others standing by him. Meanwhile, Violet's thoughts are filled with regret, guilt, and anger, particularly towards herself for not being able to save her friend Liam, who was killed in the battle. As they near their destination, Violet's life hangs in the balance, and it is uncertain if she will survive the poison and its effects.
Violet awakens from her coma-like state after being poisoned by a venin rider's dagger. Xaden, who has been by her side the entire time, is relieved and overjoyed to see her awake. As Violet begins to regain her memories and composure, she demands to know where they are and what has been going on. Xaden reveals that they are in Aretia, a town that was thought to be destroyed, but has been rebuilt in secret. Violet is shocked and angry, feeling betrayed by Xaden's secrecy. Despite this, she agrees to join forces with Xaden and his allies, but makes it clear that she will not trust him with her heart again. Xaden, determined to win back her trust, vows to be honest and transparent with her from now on. Just as they are having this conversation, Brennan, Violet's brother who was thought to be dead, appears in the doorway, revealing that he is alive and part of the revolution.