On the sparring mat, Xaden takes Violet as his opponent, drawing attention with his reputation and presence. Dain protests from the sidelines, but Xaden proceeds, stripping Violet of her daggers with speed, controlling her with holds, and refusing to use her weapons against her. He uses the bout to teach, emphasizing lethal, close targets and warning her not to trust anyone on the mat.

As the match intensifies, Xaden repeatedly disarms and pins Violet, undercutting her larger, riskier moves and demonstrating practical kill points like ribs and kidneys. He reveals he knows she has been poisoning opponents to win challenges and cautions that such tactics won’t always be possible in combat. He promises to keep her secret and tells Dain she needs less protection and more instruction before walking away.

That night in Dain’s room, while easing her sore muscles, they discuss dragon bonds and truth—Dain asserts dragons would not bond liars plotting against Navarre. He then admits he told Colonel Markham that Violet is in danger and asked for her transfer to the Scribe Quadrant, which Markham agreed to arrange without telling General Sorrengail.

The conversation escalates as Dain cites mounting threats from other cadets and the lethal realities of Threshing, where first-years settle vendettas while upper years must watch. He argues Violet will be targeted and he won’t be allowed to intervene. Torn between pride and survival, Violet refuses to leave immediately but promises to think about the transfer.