The protagonist observes Conscription Day from the vantage point of a tower in the war college, trying to avoid getting too emotionally involved with the new candidates.
Characters Rhiannon, Nadine, and Dain interact with the protagonist, clearly part of a military hierarchy involving dragons and riders.
The protagonist reflects on the danger of the conscription process and exchanges tense words with Dain, whom she resents for prior actions.
Nadine comments on the weather favoring the candidates, recalling when a storm complicated their own Conscription Day.
A character named Xaden is alluded to, having left gifts for the protagonist, and a note implying a close relationship.
Rhiannon talks to Dain about a new vice commandant, Varrish, who is described as a hard-ass and friends with Dain's father.
Candidates begin arriving at the parapet, and the protagonist takes their names but tries not to form attachments, fearing for their safety.
Some candidates exhibit aggressive behaviors, such as one named Jack Barlowe Junior, who knocks another candidate off the parapet.
The protagonist recognizes a familiar candidate, Cam, who has taken on a new name Aaric Graycastle.
Dain questions Aaric's decision to cross the parapet, acknowledging the permanence and danger of his choice.
Another candidate, Sloane Mairi, is revealed to be the sister of someone the protagonist feels responsible for the death of, and a tense encounter ensues.
Sloane blames the protagonist for her brother's death and expresses hatred towards her.
The chapter concludes with the assembly of squadrons and the protagonist's squad experiences tension as they gain a prince and a grieving sister among their ranks.
Vice Commandant Varrish's dragon, Solas, creates a grave situation by burning cadets who attempt to run away in fear.
The protagonist's bonded dragon, Tairn, intervenes violently to protect her and the other cadets from Solas.
Major Varrish appears to target the protagonist with a threat, and Tairn responds aggressively, establishing himself as her protector.
The chapter ends with the protagonist understanding her and her dragon's relationship with Varrish has grown antagonistic.