The Parapet

The parapet is an 18 in. wide bridge that is suspended 200 feet in the air above a river-bottom valley. It connects the Riders Quadrant to Basgiath War College. It has an upward incline, so the challenge tests not only your balance, but your stamina. This is the first challenge riders are presented with when they choose to enlist in the Riders Quadrant. The obstacle claims the lives of about 15% of the candidates on Conscription Day. Once you successfully cross the parapet you become a cadet, rather than a candidate. None of the other quadrants have to cross the parapet in order to reach their section of Basgiath. The year before Violet crosses the parapet, 3 riders died falling off.

The 250 step, rail-less staircase leading up to the parapet are where Violet is first introduced to Rhiannon and Dylan. This is also where she first encounters Xaden and Jack. Unfortunately, in chapter 1 of Fourth Wing, Dylan slips and falls off the parapet to his death.