Before sunrise, Tairn brings Violet and the riot back to Basgiath after an exhausting flight from Aretia. As they approach, Tairn explains that dragons first bonded humans to defend their dens from venin, noting both species have long used each other. With Andarna now an adolescent, they prioritize sneaking her into the Vale to protect the hatchlings. Tairn drops Andarna and prepares to circle while Violet and Xaden head for the dorms, bracing for arrest or execution.

On the walk in, Violet keeps conversation with Xaden practical, avoiding their mental link. She asks about allies among scribes but stops short of exposing herself to Dain’s power. Xaden confirms the plan to manipulate Aetos if needed, and the eight coordinate their entry. Passing Second Wing’s taunts, they deduce leadership has hidden the truth about Athebyne.

Violet and Xaden slip into Liam’s room. Under his mattress, Violet finds the twine-bound letters and, in the hall, runs into Rhiannon and Ridoc. Overcome but strategic, Violet entrusts the letters to Rhiannon to keep them safe from being burned with Liam’s belongings. The friends part under the pressure of secrecy and imminent formation.

Hiding behind a rotunda pillar, Violet asks how to lie to loved ones. Xaden insists he tells selective truths to protect people and admits he has known Brennan was alive since “his death.” When Violet demands complete honesty going forward, Xaden refuses full disclosure because of the revolution, offering answers only about himself. Violet counters with an ultimatum: total honesty or she will “unfall” for him. Bells cut their standoff.

The eight form up as the death roll begins. Stepping into the courtyard sunlight, they hear Captain Fitzgibbons read “Garrick Tavis. Xaden Riorson.” Xaden answers loudly, “Well, this is awkward,” drawing every gaze and forcing the coming confrontation into the open at graduation.