At the Archives of Basgiath, record-keeping for tome requests is mandatory, with penalties for failure.
Ridoc, Rhiannon, and the protagonist are in a U-shaped classroom ready for Orientation as second-years, signaling their progression in training.
Nadine arrives with an injured hand, having slipped and sprained it, mentioning the healer Nolon.
There is tension among the group when protagonist's dark thoughts about war stories and potential dangers to friends surface.
Professor Grady, a new instructor who is adjusting to his role, addresses the class, emphasizing the challenging curriculum of the second year.
The class size is notably small, and there is concern over the dwindling number of dragon bonds and the impact on the war effort.
It is revealed that Rider Survival Course (RSC) will be a major component of their training, including survival techniques and handling capture and interrogation.
Questions about failing RSC assessments lead to Professor Grady simply replying, “Don’t,”, underlining the no-failure expectation.
The protagonist feels conflicted, battling inner turmoil and external threats while seeking solace in the familiar Archives.
Determined to act against a secret revolution, the protagonist knowingly engages in deceit, requesting old texts about the founding of Basgiath under the guise of debate preparation.
The protagonist receives the requested books from Jesinia, a trusted friend, further committed to uncovering a way to protect people from war without relying on the revolution's potential arms buildup.