Second-years gather for Orientation as Violet sits with Rhiannon, Ridoc, and their squad, noting Nadine’s sprained hand and the looming arrival of first-years. Violet withholds her trauma from Resson and Aetos’s threats, fearing endangering friends. Captain—Professor Grady introduces himself and announces there are only eighty-nine second-years, the smallest class since the First Six. Through Tairn, Violet learns fewer dragons are bonding because the Empyrean is divided about intervening against the venin, while Andarna sleeps.

Professor Grady unveils the classified Rider Survival Course, designed to teach survival behind enemy lines, navigation, and resisting interrogation. He warns of unscheduled trials—including abductions—leading to two must-pass evaluations. Caroline Ashton presses for dates; he refuses. When Rhiannon asks what happens if they break under interrogation, Grady answers, “Don’t,” underscoring the stakes and Violet’s fear of torture given the secrets she carries.

Rattled, Violet seeks steadiness in the Archives and resolves to help protect Aretia by finding answers about wards at Basgiath. She reunites with scribe Jesinia, accepts condolences for her father, but worries about trust. To avoid risking Jesinia, Violet lies that she needs sources for a debate on why Basgiath’s location was chosen for the wards. Jesinia provides two century-old tomes, and Violet leaves determined to uncover a way to safeguard civilians before the wards fail.