Chapter no 11 – 12

Chapter no 11

The protagonist, Violet, faces mounting challenges as she struggles with the Gauntlet, an obstacle course that tests the cadets’ strength, agility, and determination. While some squadmates, like Tynan, face their own difficulties, Violet repeatedly fails at the chimney section, which highlights the disadvantage her smaller stature poses. Despite her frustrations and doubts about her place in the Riders Quadrant, she resolves to stay and face the challenges rather than retreat to the safety of the Scribe Quadrant, knowing she may regret never knowing if she could succeed.

On Presentation Day, Violet and her squad prepare to tackle the Gauntlet in front of the entire Riders Quadrant. The event is nerve-wracking, with the names of fallen cadets read aloud in a sobering roll call. As the cadets ascend the Gauntlet, Violet is determined to overcome the obstacles, even the dreaded chimney section and the final ramp, which seem almost insurmountable for her. She draws on her determination and ingenuity, devising a plan to use a rope and her dagger to navigate these sections.

Violet’s creative problem-solving, particularly using her dagger as leverage on the ramp, earns her success but also scrutiny. Amber Mavis, a Third Wing wingleader, accuses Violet of cheating, citing her use of foreign materials. However, Violet defends herself by citing the Codex, which allows items carried across the parapet to be considered part of the rider. Her sharp intellect and strategic thinking win the argument, with Xaden, her wingleader, backing her up. This moment reinforces Violet’s ability to adapt and survive through unconventional means.

The victory comes at a cost, as Violet’s hands are shredded and bleeding from the strain of her climb. Her squad rallies around her, showing their support as they help her treat her injuries. The success of the entire squad in completing the Gauntlet solidifies their bond and demonstrates their collective resilience. Despite the physical toll and the animosity from some cadets, Violet proves she belongs in the Riders Quadrant, even if her methods are unconventional.

Ultimately, Violet’s journey through the Gauntlet represents her growth as a rider. Her determination to adapt and succeed, even when the odds are stacked against her, underscores her resilience. While she still faces skepticism and challenges from others, she emerges from the ordeal stronger, with her ingenuity and courage helping her carve a place in the harsh and competitive world of the Riders Quadrant.

Chapter no 12

Presentation Day is a pivotal and nerve-wracking experience for the cadets, filled with the tension of walking among dragons who will judge their worthiness to bond. Violet’s squad finishes eleventh out of thirty-six, despite her penalty for using a rope during the Gauntlet. The training field, a stunning box canyon surrounded by autumnal peaks, serves as the dramatic stage for the parade of cadets before the dragons. Among them is a surprising and rare sight—a golden feathertail dragon, which immediately sparks debate and derision among the squad.

As the squad proceeds through the valley, tensions rise. Garrick, their section leader, gives clear instructions to keep their distance and maintain composure, but the group’s dynamics quickly unravel. Tynan and Luca’s insults highlight their arrogance and disdain for Violet, while the dragons observe silently, exuding a sense of overwhelming power. When a red dragon incinerates Pryor in a sudden burst of flame, the cadets are starkly reminded of the life-or-death stakes, and Violet pushes forward, shaken but resolute.

The golden feathertail dragon captures Violet’s attention and curiosity as it stands apart from the others. Her calm and respectful demeanor contrasts with the dismissive attitudes of some squadmates. When two green dragons approach her, drawn by the scent of dragon scales in her vest—crafted by her sister Mira from her bonded dragon’s shed scales—Violet uses her quick thinking and honesty to de-escalate the situation. She explains the armor’s origin and connection to her sister’s dragon, earning what seems to be the dragons’ acceptance before they return to their line.

The squad’s walk through the field is marked by tension and tragedy, as another cadet, Luca, is burned by a dragon after her repeated arrogance and disdain. Violet survives, but the harrowing experience underscores the ruthlessness of the process and the constant threat of death. Ridoc’s humor and Violet’s attempts to steady herself reveal the camaraderie and resilience needed to endure such trials, even as the squad’s numbers dwindle.

By the end, the cadets are left with a sobering realization of their vulnerability and the dragons’ unpredictable nature. Violet’s encounter with the greens and her ability to adapt highlight her resourcefulness and quiet strength. Despite the losses, she emerges more determined to prove herself, knowing that surviving Presentation Day is only the beginning of the challenges ahead.