CHAPTER THIRTY-THREE

Violet and her squad arrive at the eastern outpost of Montserrat for a week-long tour. After an emotional reunion with her sister Mira, Violet sneaks out with Rhiannon to visit Rhiannon's family nearby, and Mira joins them. Upon returning, Xaden unexpectedly appears, having separated from his dragon for three days.

Violet's squad, including Dain, Rhiannon, Ridoc, Heaton, and Imogen, arrives at Montserrat outpost after a grueling six-hour flight. The outpost commander, Major Quade, gives them a tour of the fortress, which is built for siege with twelve stationed riders. Violet discovers Rhiannon's village is less than an hour away on foot and promises to help her visit her family within their six days at the outpost. Two days later, Violet and Rhiannon attempt to sneak out, but Mira intercepts them at the wall. After Violet persuades her by invoking the idea of missing a niece or nephew, Mira agrees to join them. They fly to Raegan's house, where Rhiannon reunites joyfully with her pregnant sister, parents, and nephew. While Mira and Violet talk privately, Violet reveals she's poisoned opponents before challenges and expresses concern about not manifesting her signet. Mira warns her about Xaden and tells her about a gryphon attack near Cranston that wasn't covered in Battle Brief, suggesting classified information is withheld from cadets. Violet admits her relationship with Dain has fractured due to her need to change to survive and the death of Amber Mavis. She acknowledges Xaden is complicated but essential to her survival. After an hour, they prepare to leave, and as they exit the house into the humid night, Xaden emerges from the shadows.