Understanding a dark wielder's experience and age can be gauged by eye color and vein distention as described in a compendium by Captain Drake Cordella.
The protagonist is in a confrontation with Cat, who taunts her with intimate knowledge of a man they have both been involved with.
Their confrontation escalates into a physical fight, with Cat landing the first significant blow.
Despite being provoked by Cat's taunts, the protagonist gains a physical advantage and seriously injures Cat by breaking her ribs.
Amid the fight, the protagonist discovers that Cat and the protagonist are both involved in a bigger conflict over power and not just competing for a man’s affections.
More is revealed about past engagements and aristocratic alliances hinting at a deeper backstory involving political machinations.
The protagonist channels her rage skillfully during the fight, recalling training received from someone named Rhiannon.
As the fight reaches a critical point, the protagonist is almost consumed by her anger when she is believed to be controlled by mindwork or strong emotions.
Someone named Xaden intervenes, suggesting the protagonist is making a choice in her violent actions.
The protagonist breaks free from the blinding rage, partly due to her deep feelings for Xaden, and recognizes Cat has been cheating using mindwork.
The character Imogen accuses Cat of using mindwork during the fight, to which Cat responds defensively and continues to express hatred toward the protagonist’s family.
An external event involving lightning and fire occurs, with Xaden quickly acting to subdue the flames with his own power.
Xaden physically removes the protagonist from the confrontation, carrying her past various authority figures and into the Assembly chamber.
Once in the Assembly chamber, Xaden orders others out and has a private moment with the protagonist, expressing concern for her injuries.
The protagonist is left feeling vulnerable and raw as the extent of Cat’s power fades away, and contemplates how to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Xaden admits to having overheard the entire humiliating exchange during the fight, leaving the protagonist feeling exposed.