CHAPTER TWENTY

Summary

• This chapter is set in the formation ground of a military-like group. The situation seems to be intense, with a list of eight people who have died being read by Captain Fitzgibbons.
• The protagonist, Violet or Sorrengail, seems to have been attacked overnight, causing concern amongst her peers. Xaden, the wingleader of their squad, reportedly intervened and may be trying to keep the incident a secret for Violet's safety.
• Violet notices a new member, Liam, has been added to her squad, effectively acting as a protector or bodyguard for her. She is initially resistant but understanding of Xaden's motives for adding Liam to her squad.
• The Commandant, Panchek, makes an unusual appearance and it is revealed that there has been a breach in their laws, specifically mentioning an attack against Violet.
• Xaden accuses wingleader Amber Mavis of being behind Violet's assassination attempt. The group as a whole is in shock and disbelief. This accusation is serious as accusing a wingleader of wrongdoing can have deadly consequences.
• Xaden gathers a group of fellow wingleaders to form a quorum, which unanimously finds Amber Mavis guilty. As dictated by their law, she is sentenced to be executed by fire.
• Violet simultaneously pleads with Xaden and her dragon, Tairn, to spare Amber's life. However, her pleas are rejected and Amber is incinerated by Tairn. This action causes Amber's dragon, Claidh, to let out a mournful, earth-shattering scream. Amber's execution demonstrates the severity of the law within their society and sets a grim tone for the rest of the story.