The chapter opens with the protagonist feeling jealousy, anxiety, and insecurity about Xaden's ex as they fly back to Navarre.
Tairn, the protagonist's dragon, reminds her she was chosen by dragons over Xaden's ex and encourages her to stop being insecure.
Upon landing, Tairn asserts they should be ready to leave again by morning in hopes of mitigating any punishment for leaving abruptly.
Xaden and the protagonist share a moment where they discuss not wanting to talk about Xaden’s ex or the protagonist’s previous lovers.
Instead, they need to have a conversation about Viscount Tecarus and the luminary, a device crucial for completing Xaden's forge.
Xaden reveals that Tecarus wants to see the protagonist demonstrate her lightning abilities before he will allow them to use the luminary.
Xaden is protective and expresses concern that Tecarus may try to keep the protagonist for himself.
The protagonist asserts her willingness to take risks if it could help, yet Xaden expresses he would lose the war rather than lose her.
They also discuss the protagonist’s exes and a dangerous substance that can weaken the bond between riders and dragons.
The protagonist acknowledges various issues such as leaks about a battle, a negotiation involving a character named Brennan, and a physical altercation with a character named Varrish.
The duo continues to trust each other with more personal information.
Back at Basgiath, there is a sense of pending punishment for absence without leave on the protagonist's part.
As she approaches her living quarters, she is confronted by Varrish, who is ready to render her judgment.
Professor Emetterio gives the protagonist guidance on how to argue her case against punishment.
Professor Kaori confronts Varrish and defends the protagonist, revealing that she will not be punished as it was not her choice to leave, but her dragon's.
Varrish demands the protagonist’s flight jacket, which is a significant object as it could implicate her and others if discovered.
Rhiannon, the protagonist's friend and squad leader, manages to save an important dagger from discovery by Varrish using her signet powers.
The protagonist finally decides to trust Rhiannon and the others with the truth about Xaden and her situation, potentially including the significance of the dagger.