Chapter Fifty-Four

Violet's squad absorbs Cat's drift of fliers as mandated by the Aretia Accord. After a tense confrontation with Cat about their rivalry, Violet seeks Dain's help translating Warrick's journal in Krovlish, beginning the difficult process of rebuilding their friendship while establishing clear boundaries about discussing Liam's death.

Following formation, Rhiannon distributes green squad patches to the six fliers joining Second Squad. Violet confronts Cat when presenting her patch, revealing that Tyrrendor's crown was melted down centuries ago and subtly referencing a signet trick Cat had taught her. Ridoc, Sawyer, and Rhiannon accompany Violet to the library, where they joke about killing Cat given the fliers' current weakness from altitude adjustment. In the library, Violet retrieves six books Tecarus sent with Xaden, intending to study Krovlish. Sawyer attempts to sign with Jesinia before the group observes Dain arriving exactly at seven thirty. Violet asks for his help translating Warrick's journal. The next day in the wardstone chamber, Dain corrects Violet's translation of a Krovlish symbol for rain, suggesting Jesinia's Morrainian specialization may have caused confusion. They discuss how first year changed them both, with Dain revealing his overprotectiveness stemmed from fear of losing her. When Violet asks if Dain stole her memories by touching her face, he admits to doing so intentionally when he needed information about Xaden, driven by his father's influence and concerns about revenge. Violet acknowledges the pain this caused regarding Liam but establishes a boundary: they will work together on the journal but not discuss Liam or Soleil until she has distance. When Dain asks if she loves Xaden, Violet confirms unequivocally, and Dain pledges to trust Xaden as much as she does.