Violet awakens in Aretia after surviving a poisoned stab wound at Resson and eats at a kitchen table across from her brother, Brennan—alive despite years presumed dead. Brennan insists she eat before seeing her dragons. Tairn presses her to eat as well, while Andarna remains unresponsive, sleeping after spending her power.

Bodhi delivers a missive from Basgiath and addresses Brennan as Lieutenant Colonel Aisereigh. Brennan departs to meet the Assembly. Violet follows through Riorson House’s vast halls and joins Bodhi and Imogen in an open doorway overlooking the meeting, where Xaden stands before a massive map.

The Assembly debates resources and strategy. They lack a luminary to power the forge needed to arm their drifts and discuss failed negotiations with Viscount Tecarus. A proposal to seize Basgiath’s forging device is rejected because it would collapse outpost wards and endanger civilians. With the venin threat growing and time short, a majority advises that the cadets should return to Basgiath.

Suri suggests sending all but two of the eight. Violet reels at the reminder of their fallen—Soleil and Liam. Felix argues none are expendable. Xaden asserts the Assembly offers only advice and that decisions rest with the eight.

When the observers are noticed, Suri and Major Ferris push to confine Violet, questioning her loyalty. Imogen notes that Xaden has already taken responsibility for Violet by custom. Brennan underscores Tairn’s deepening bonds and warns that Xaden’s life is tied to Violet’s. Xaden claims sole responsibility and cites two dragons vouching for her. Violet steps forward, demands to be addressed directly, and Felix defends her over Athebyne, warning that Aetos will try to kill her should she return.

Brennan adjourns the meeting. Xaden urges Violet to use the moment to talk with Brennan and promises the eight will decide together. He, Bodhi, and Imogen head toward the valley, and Violet turns to confront six years of questions with her brother.