Chapter no 33 – 34

Chapter no 33

In a scene filled with urgency and tension, Violet and Xaden prepare for a sudden mandatory formation called under the guise of a potential attack. As Violet hurriedly dresses, Xaden insists on her wearing his flight jacket, a gesture that conveys both his protectiveness and the deep bond between them. Despite the chaos, Violet and Xaden share a quick, passionate moment before parting ways to join their respective squads. The formation reveals that the alert is actually part of War Games, a simulated battle designed to test the riders’ readiness, though its gravity hints at how high the stakes could be in real combat.

Tensions rise as Xaden asserts his authority to take Violet, Liam, and Imogen beyond the protective wards to Athebyne, a location tied to his secretive mission. Dain vehemently protests, accusing Xaden of ulterior motives and endangering Violet. The confrontation lays bare Dain’s jealousy and lingering feelings for Violet, while Xaden’s composed yet commanding demeanor reinforces Violet’s trust in him. Violet chooses to follow Xaden, demonstrating her unwavering faith in his intentions, even as Dain warns her of the potential risks and heartbreak her decision may bring.

As the squad prepares to depart, the emotional undercurrents of the situation linger. Violet reflects on the shifting dynamics between herself, Xaden, and Dain, understanding that her decision to align with Xaden will irrevocably change her life. Amid the chaos of the War Games exercise, this pivotal moment highlights Violet’s growth, her trust in her own choices, and her commitment to the path she’s chosen, even as the shadow of real danger looms on the horizon.

Chapter no 34

The scene begins with Violet and her squad embarking on a grueling flight beyond the protective wards of the kingdom to Athebyne, a remote outpost. The flight is marked by unease as Violet feels the wilder magic outside the wards, adding to her anxieties about her abilities and the safety of her young dragon, Andarna. Despite the physical toll, Violet and her team press forward, and she wrestles with her growing emotions for Xaden, who continues to break his own rules by showing his affection for her openly. These moments of vulnerability between them hint at deeper stakes, both in their relationship and the impending War Games.

As the group pauses to rest by a lake near the outpost, Xaden takes a moment to care for Violet, reaffirming their bond while reminding her to conserve her strength for the challenges ahead. However, the respite is interrupted by the sudden arrival of two gryphon riders, their beasts posing a direct threat to the squad. The tense confrontation quickly escalates as Violet instinctively prepares to wield her lightning, but Xaden, uncharacteristically, restrains her and pleads for her trust. This unexpected move leaves Violet confused and frustrated, as she struggles to understand why Xaden seems to be negotiating with the enemy instead of preparing for battle.

The tension reaches a peak as Xaden reveals he has prior knowledge of the gryphon riders, stunning Violet and the rest of the squad. This revelation raises more questions than answers, casting doubt on Xaden’s motives and the true nature of his mission. The stakes are heightened as Violet realizes the complexities of the war and her relationship with Xaden, with trust becoming the critical thread that binds their precarious situation together. The encounter underscores the danger of the world beyond the wards and leaves readers eager to uncover the secrets Xaden is keeping.