CHAPTER ONE

The character, a physically frail young woman named Violet, is being sent to train to become a dragon rider called Conscription Day. However, she has been preparing for a future as a scribe. Her family is connected with dragons, particularly her mother who is a general and her deceased brother.
Despite protesting from Violet's sister, Mira, who is a part of the general's squad, her mother insists she go to train as a dragon rider.
Mira helps Violet prepare for the training. She gives her new gear and advice. Violet gets rid of some of her books but keeps one on killing people.
Before they leave to join the rest of the candidates outside the fortress, Mira advises Violet to find a person named Dain who can keep her safe.
The chapter ends as the two sisters are walking to join the anxious candidates, some who are volunteers and some who have been conscripted as punishment, as they are about to begin their training.

The protagonist, Violet, joins other candidates lining up to enter the Riders Quadrant, an elite training division, at their college.
Everyone must cross a dangerous stone bridge, the parapet, to get from the main college to the Riders Quadrant.
Violet is nervous about crossing the parapet, but her companion Mira advises her not to delay and let her fear grow.
Mira warns Violet about Xaden Riorson, son of a traitor who led a rebellion against their organization. She tells Violet that Xaden might kill her if he discovers her identity.
During their wait, Violet meets fellow candidates Dylan and Rhiannon, and swaps boots with Rhiannon for better grip on the parapet.
The candidates are shocked when Dylan slips from the rain-soaked parapet and falls to his presumed death.
Xaden is one of the riders overseeing the parapet crossing. He recognizes Violet’s last name, Sorrengail, and reveals a deep hatred towards her family for their role in his father's execution.
Xaden tells Violet it's her turn to cross the parapet, implying that he believes she won't survive the crossing.

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