Chapter Thirteen

During Conscription Day at Basgiath War College, Violet observes first-year candidates crossing the parapet while working the roll. She encounters three significant surprises: Cam (who uses the alias Aaric Graycastle), King Tauri's third son; Liam's younger sister Sloane, who blames Violet for Liam's death; and Aaric's placement in Second Squad. The ceremony turns catastrophic when Major Varrish's one-eyed Orange Daggertail dragon, Solas, unexpectedly burns down runners and multiple first-years, killing several riders including Ciaran. Tairn arrives dramatically to confront Solas and protect Violet, establishing a clear threat that forces the orange dragon to retreat.

Violet arrives at the parapet as a second-year observer for Conscription Day, avoiding watching candidates closely to spare herself nightmares. She notes the emotional strain of seeing so many volunteers risk their lives. Dain, now wingleader, oversees the candidates' crossing with Violet, Rhiannon, and Nadine present. When Cam arrives under the assumed name Aaric Graycastle—the third son of King Tauri—Violet recognizes him immediately. She directs him to Second Squad, Flame Section, Fourth Wing, and reveals his identity in confidence to Rhiannon. Shortly after, Sloane Mairi arrives; Violet realizes she is Liam's younger sister. Sloane openly accuses Violet of getting her brother killed, expressing pure hatred before crossing the parapet. Violet gives her advice on safety, promising to protect her as she swore to Liam. Seventy-one candidates fall during Conscription; afterward, the quadrant assembles for squad assignments. After initial placement in First Wing, Sloane is mysteriously reassigned to Second Squad through Dain's intervention. She furiously refuses the assignment but is forced into formation by Rhiannon. During Commandant Panchek's ceremony with the wingleaders' dragons displayed, three first-year runners attempt to escape. Solas, Varrish's Orange Daggertail, unexpectedly unleashes fire, killing the runners and devastating Third Squad, including a bonded rider named Ciaran. Violet tackles Sloane to protect her, and Aaric shields the red-haired girl beside him. Varrish's callous speech about "weakest riders" infuriates Violet. When another girl attempts to run, Tairn suddenly lands on the wall behind the cadets, his arrival triggering Violet's relief amid chaos. Tairn confronts Solas with a terrifying roar and explicit threat, forcing the orange dragon to retreat skyward. Varrish's steady composure cracks, and Violet recognizes him as now definitively her enemy.