Chapter no 27 – 28

Chapter no 27

In the wake of her heroic actions in the Battle of Strythmore, Mira Sorrengail is recommended for the prestigious Star of Navarre, acknowledging her unparalleled bravery in destroying an enemy battery and saving an entire company. Amidst this legacy, Mira leads a squad of cadets in simulated war exercises at the Montserrat outpost, pushing them to think critically about strategy. Tensions flare between Dain and Xaden, whose presence unnerves both the cadets and Mira. Violet, caught between her protective sister and Xaden’s mysterious demeanor, grapples with her growing awareness of their connection, exacerbated by his uncanny ability to speak in her mind.

The training exercise evolves into an argument between Dain and Xaden, exposing deep-seated animosities. Mira, frustrated by Dain’s rigidity and Xaden’s shadowed past, reminds them of their responsibilities as leaders and the importance of unity. Violet struggles to navigate the power dynamics while being drawn closer to Xaden, whose ability to wield shadows proves vital in the simulation. The exercises highlight the challenges of integrating different skill sets in battle, with Xaden’s leadership style clashing with Dain’s structured approach.

The situation escalates when gryphons launch a surprise attack on Montserrat, and Mira orders Violet to flee for her safety. Despite Violet’s pleas to stay and fight alongside her sister, Xaden forcibly ensures her departure, emphasizing the bond between their dragons and his responsibility to protect her. The emotional weight of leaving her sister behind clashes with the trust Violet is learning to place in Xaden, whose actions demonstrate both care and ruthlessness.

As they escape, Violet is torn between her loyalty to Mira and the unresolved tension with Xaden. The moment culminates in a charged kiss between them, underscoring the complexity of their relationship. Meanwhile, the gryphon attack underscores the unpredictable dangers of their world and the sacrifices necessary to survive. Violet’s departure marks a painful but necessary step in her journey, highlighting the tension between duty, loyalty, and personal growth.

Chapter no 28

Winning the War Games requires cunning, not just strength, as reflected in the Book of Brennan’s emphasis on exploiting vulnerabilities, even among friends. Violet wrestles with guilt and tension after returning from Montserrat, her mind preoccupied with Mira’s safety. Her interactions with Xaden deepen as she attempts to learn more about him, uncovering his guarded nature and complicated feelings for her. Despite his insistence that his protective actions aren’t part of a game, Violet remains conflicted, especially as she struggles with her growing connection to him.

The first War Games test Fourth Wing’s ability to defend a flag while simultaneously attacking First Wing, who guards a symbolic egg. Dain implements strategic insights gleaned from Mira’s lessons, while Violet receives a custom dragon saddle from Xaden, enabling her to ride Tairn more effectively. However, the Games turn deadly when Jack Barlowe, a member of First Wing, brutally injures Liam during an aerial confrontation. Violet taps into Andarna’s power to freeze time, allowing Tairn to rescue Liam moments before he crashes.

Fueled by rage and a surge of uncontrolled power, Violet targets Jack, channeling a storm of energy as her signet finally manifests—lightning wielding. Her attack obliterates Jack and the tower he occupies, ensuring First Wing’s defeat. The overwhelming force of her newfound power leaves her shaken but victorious, cementing her role as a formidable rider. Tairn’s pride in her accomplishment signals a turning point in their bond, solidifying Violet’s growing confidence in herself and her abilities.

Amid the chaos, Violet reflects on the high stakes of the Riders Quadrant, where trust and loyalty are constantly tested. Her triumph in the War Games is bittersweet, as she grapples with the cost of survival and the deepening complexities of her relationships, particularly with Xaden. Though victorious, the experience underscores the harsh realities of their world, where even moments of glory are shadowed by sacrifice and loss.