Chapter Eleven

Xaden prepares to depart for Samara with a seven-day absence looming. Before leaving, Colonel Aetos threatens Violet's life and Mira's in a veiled warning to keep secrets. The chapter ends with Violet's relief at Rhi's promotion to squad leader while confronting the painful reality of her complicated feelings for Xaden.

Colonel Aetos and Varrish approach Xaden and Violet with a cryptic threat: if Violet shares what truly happened (implied to be related to dangerous knowledge), Aetos will target both her and her sister Mira. The threat triggers an uncontrolled surge of Violet's lightning signet in the courtyard, which Xaden helps her manage by moving outside where the damage is contained to stone. Xaden reveals he has been assigned to Samara in the Southern Wing—a day's flight away—meaning he and Tairn will have only brief visits with Violet and Sgaeyl. Andarna, preparing for the Dreamless Sleep, drowsily eavesdrops on their conversation. In the courtyard, Xaden and Violet engage in what appears to be a romantic farewell but is partly performance for observing cadets. Xaden warns Violet to avoid involvement in rebellious activities while he is gone and to trust only those present at Resson. He cautions her against trusting other marked ones, as some may wish her harm due to her mother's identity. The two nearly kiss but pull back. After Xaden departs, Rhi arrives with news: she has been promoted to squad leader of their wing, with Cianna moving up to executive officer. Violet and their squad celebrate the promotion, though Violet's joy is tempered by the weight of recent events.