CHAPTER THIRTY-SEVEN

Violet and Xaden finally consummate their relationship in her quarters, their combined power causing destruction (fire, lightning, a shattered armoire). Afterward, Xaden reveals the scars on his back—one hundred and seven marks, representing his deal to take personal responsibility for the rebellion children in exchange for their admission to the Riders Quadrant. The next morning, Professor Carr pulls her from Archives duty to train her lightning wielding in the mountains, warning her that her combined power with Xaden makes them both dangerously formidable to the kingdom.

Violet initiates intimacy with Xaden in her room, overcoming his resistance with her insistence and desire. Their encounter becomes increasingly intense, with both their powers manifesting uncontrollably—Violet's lightning and fire, Xaden's shadows—causing significant damage to her quarters (curtains ignite, an armoire splinters, a throwing target is destroyed). After they collapse exhausted, Violet notices scars on Xaden's back and learns their origin: he made a deal with the rebellion's leaders to take personal responsibility for one hundred and seven children under the age of majority. If any betray Navarre, his life is forfeit. The scars serve as his reminder of this obligation. He warns her not to fall for him, but she finds violets left on her nightstand when she wakes—evidence he stayed and cleaned up the wreckage using his shadows. Professor Carr arrives, removing her from Archives duty due to the fire risk and takes her to a high mountain range to train her lightning control. During their session, Xaden initiates contact through their connection, sending her sensory memories of their encounter, which overwhelms her with desire and helps unlock her power. Carr warns her that she and Xaden together represent a threat so formidable that Navarre's command would never permit their continued existence, advising her to keep her loyalties clear.