In morning formation, Captain Fitzgibbons reads the death roll, a stark reminder of the Riders Quadrant’s attrition as first-years stand in new black uniforms marked with Fourth Wing. Violet notes the barracks’ exposure and hides her injuries, while Dain, as squad leader, sends second- and third-years on and orders first-years to stick together before sparring later. Violet reflects on the looming Gauntlet, Presentation, and Threshing.

First-year Sawyer, a repeat, leads their group to class, with Ridoc sniping and Rhiannon supporting Violet. Dain’s birdcall summons Violet to the rotunda, where they meet behind a dragon pillar. He checks her knee, warns her to keep a low profile, and admits their squad was moved because Xaden wants a direct line to her.

Dain cautions that Xaden is ruthless and that Sgaeyl, his Blue Daggertail, is feared among dragons. He contrasts his own bond with Cath, a Red Swordtail, and reveals his classified signet: by touching someone’s temples he can read recent memories, making him valuable for intelligence. He explains Basgiath strips prior bonds to center loyalty on the wing and insists wingleaders revere the Codex’s rules.

When Violet exits, she spots Xaden watching from the gathering hall steps. He needles them about their connection in front of onlookers, raising the stakes. As the crowd thins, danger feels imminent; Dain steps in and orders, “Run, Violet.” She bolts, ending the encounter with tensions sharply escalated.