Chapter Forty-Seven

Violet prepares for her progress briefing with the Senarium, where she discovers Ridoc has developed an advanced ice-wielding signet and refuses the assigned commander and squad composition. After a confrontation with Halden and Markham, she asserts her authority to choose her own team for the Deverelli mission, selecting Xaden, Mira, Ridoc, Cat's cousin Drake Cordella, Dain Aetos, Prince Halden, and his guard.

Violet spends days reading to prepare for her Senarium briefing while Ridoc reveals he has developed the ability to freeze water within objects, a powerful signet variation. Walking to the great hall, Ridoc emotionally appeals to accompany Violet on her mission, referencing their squad's bond since Athebyne and how separations have led to tragedy. Violet brings Ridoc and Cat to the briefing, where she meets Drake Cordella, Cat's cousin and a skilled rider. Halden attempts to assign Captain Henson as commander and orders a search of Aretia, but Violet rejects both, ripping up her orders and demanding her own squad selection. She openly defies and insults Markham, asserting she answers only to the dragons and the Empyrean. Halden grants her one chance to name her squad but threatens that failure will negate the Second Aretia Accord, which restored Xaden's title. Violet selects Xaden, Mira, Ridoc, Drake Cordella, Dain Aetos, Prince Halden, and Halden's guard, dismissing objections about Xaden's participation by noting she defers only to Xaden's father. When the Duchess of Morraine mentions multiple marriage proposals for Xaden, Violet's concern is evident through the bond connection. Xaden firmly asserts he is going regardless of Halden's permission, claiming he answers only to his father. The meeting concludes with Mira arriving late and violently responding to Drake's participation by kneeing him after learning he endangered Violet's life in a past operation. The squad will depart the day after tomorrow for Deverelli to potentially find Andarna's family and pursue Violet's father's research.