“The first year is when some of us lose our lives. The second year is when the rest of us lose our humanity.” —Xaden Riorson

Violet Sorrengail was never expected to survive her first year at Basgiath War College—not by others, and not by herself. Yet, she endured Threshing, the brutal trial meant to eliminate the weak and unworthy.

Now, the real battle begins. The training is merciless, designed to push riders to the brink of human endurance. But it’s not just the physical torment that threatens Violet—it’s the new vice commandant, who’s determined to break her spirit unless she betrays the man she loves.

Despite her frail body, Violet relies on her sharp mind and unyielding determination, refusing to forget the key lesson Basgiath has taught her: dragon riders live by their own rules.

But survival alone won’t be enough this time. Violet has uncovered a dangerous secret hidden within the college’s walls, one that has remained buried for centuries. And as the stakes rise higher than ever, not even dragon fire might be enough to save them all.