Chapter Five

Summary

• Major Burton Varrish has been reassigned due to causing the deaths of three prisoners during interrogations.
• Cadets at Basgiath are celebrating with an abundance of food and drinks, with an atmosphere of unity as ranks are temporarily disregarded.
• Ridoc is excited about the potential lifting of a ban that has prevented cadets like them from visiting the village of Chantara.
• The mention of how statistically some cadets may not survive to their third year is glossed over with humor as the group chooses to focus on the present festivities.
• A romance between the protagonist and Lieutenant Riorson is teased by peers, though there are hints of trust issues.
• Amid the revelry, some cadets share their excitement for privileges that will come with their next year, like no chore duty and the ability to correspond with family.
• There is noticeable improvement in relations as cadets who once faced discrimination are now socializing more freely after overcoming previous tensions.
• Imogen acknowledges the protagonist's role in surviving a battle with gryphons, which is a shift towards respect in their relationship.
• There’s a toast for a fallen comrade named Liam, highlighting the solemn reality of their dangerous lives.
• Quinn advises to be cautious with forming attachments to first-years, as many may not survive the rigorous training.
• Xaden's presence is felt by the protagonist even from across the room, and they share a mentally intrusive connection.
• Xaden prepares to leave for a new posting, and there's a flirtatious tension between him and the protagonist that hints at unresolved romantic feelings.
• A newly promoted Major Varrish arrives and is introduced as the new vice commandant, assigned to enforce stricter discipline.
• The protagonist receives orders granting limited leave to visit Xaden, who is being sent to a duty station on the frontlines, indicating their dragons will suffer from the separation.
• The chapter ends with a tense interaction between Colonel Aetos, Major Varrish, and Xaden, where the Colonel cryptically alludes to secrets being poor leverage if they die with the keeper.