Three days after returning to Basgiath, Violet attends a crowded Battle Brief where Professor Devera questions first-years about the fall of Vallia amid reports of renewed venin activity in Krovla and the arrival of Cygnisen fliers. Violet, exhausted from nonstop duties and a forced immediate debrief upon landing, confirms to the room that the Deverelli mission secured diplomatic access to the isle for future searches, but withholds sensitive specifics. When pressed about strategy on the map, Violet notes the venin’s southwest movement and infers they are repositioning in anticipation of Aretia’s wards eventually falling, an assessment Devera shares.

Over the following week, Violet trains relentlessly, decodes her father’s passcode-locked books with Dain Aetos, and studies isles’ customs with her squad while worrying that Xaden has not yet returned. In the fighting pits, Professor Carr’s harsh instruction style prompts friction with Garrick Tavis and Bodhi Daji. First-years from Iron Squad (including Sloane Mairi) arrive, asking to help with research; Violet and Rhiannon allow them to contribute by reading and reporting, despite Garrick and Imogen’s objections.

Privately, Violet questions Bodhi about a second signet and learns he has none, like Xaden. She and the squad debate flight routes for the upcoming Unnbriel mission, weighing wind patterns, gryphon range, and reporting requirements. Cat, Rhiannon, Dain, and others conclude that returning to Basgiath between isles would waste critical time and strain gryphons.

In a brief reunion, Xaden appears in the amphitheater steps. Violet confirms through their bond that he feels rested and well, but she notices that the alloy-induced amber flecks in his eyes have not faded, suggesting persistent progression risk. They keep their interaction professional in public and part; Violet tells Bodhi the amber remains, and he discreetly gives her two labeled vials—Serum and Antidote—while urging her to consider contingencies and to take Garrick on the expedition in case Xaden cannot go.

Pressed by time and Xaden’s condition, Violet proposes defying direct orders: the squad will leave for Unnbriel as planned but will not return to report between isles, instead remaining out until they locate the seventh dragon breed. Sawyer warns of court-martial risk, but the squad notes success would likely override consequences. Dain insists Prince Halden must still accompany them for diplomatic access at certain isles.

Training on the mat turns dire when Wingleader Timin Kagiso hurls fire at a second-year, and Carr refuses to intervene. As the terrified cadet finally attempts to defend herself, she drains color from the mat in a spreading gray circle, exhibiting venin-like magic. Carr immediately rushes forward and kills her with an alloy-hilted dagger, executing her without questions or attempt at cure as the stands gasp in horror.

The chapter closes with a stark epigraph highlighting Unnbriel’s warlike culture, where blood is the preferred sacrifice and cowardice is the ultimate sin, foreshadowing the stakes awaiting Violet’s squad.