This chapter introduces the most frightening trial the cadets have had to face so far. Violet’s squad, consisting of an interesting variety of personalities, is introduced to the Gauntlet. The Gauntlet is a life threatening obstacle that all cadets must accomplish in order to become a rider.
As Violet’s squad waits for their turn to attempt the Gauntlet, we can see some of the inner politics and drama peek through. Tynan, who seems to be friends with Jack, teases Violet for her relationship with Dain. Rhiannon is quick to come to her defense, of course. At this point, readers love Rhiannon. She’s a ride-or-die girls’ girl. Along with Rhiannon, Ridoc shows signs of support for Violet when he snaps at Tynan for his pointed comments towards her. Violet’s going to have to watch her back when it comes to Tynan, even though he’s in her own squad. He obviously has allegiances to Jack, which makes him a threat. Violet’s squad consists of her, Pryor, Trina, Tynan, Rhiannon, Ridoc, Aurelie and Luca. Most of her squadmates like her, besides Tynan it seems. Aurelie seems excited to conquer the Gauntlet, since she’s a legacy on her father’s side. She knows all about the world of Basgiath and what it takes to become a rider for the Navarrian military. This overconfidence bites her later when she falls to her death.
This death feels particularly personal for Violet for a couple reasons. One of the reasons being the fact that Violet was the last person Aurelie saw before she fell. The other reason is more introspective, and this is vocalized with Xaden at the end of the chapter. Violet is mentally spiraling, wondering what she’s done to keep herself alive. She’s outlived many cadets who should have made it until graduation due to their size, strength and passion. She completes the Gauntlet, but is too small to complete the chimney obstacles. In order to make it to Presentation, Violet must complete the Gauntlet or die trying. She can’t change her size, use a poison or outsmart her way out of this issue like she’s been able to do in the past. She feels like hope and sheer will has gotten her to this point, but feels like she’s in too deep to back out. She even contemplates Professor Markham’s offer for the first time since she arrived at Basgiath. She’s resentful of this hope, and it almost seems like she’s accepting of her death as she burns Aurelie’s belongings in the pit. It just seems like a case of imposter syndrome. She’s questioning her skill, worth and intelligence. Her confidence is shot. Personally, I think Dain’s whole “you need to become a scribe” narrative is imposing on her sanity. If Dain doubts her, what’s stopping her from doubting herself? Maybe he’s right. This is quickly cleared up with a reality check from Xaden.
As she’s descending down the academic tower to the barracks, she notices three dragons flying into the flight field. She wonders what they’re up to, but doesn’t think too much about it. Then, she runs into Xaden, Garrick and Bodhi, who have no business being out with their dragons together. She’s curious, but her defeated spirit makes her feel apathetic to their whereabouts. Xaden dismisses Bodhi and Garrick and confronts Violet, who’s ironically trying to hide in the shadows. Xaden and Violet’s conversation is odd, because she doesn’t confront him, but confides in him. Xaden provides meaningful advice that differs heavily from Dain’s. She asks Xaden why he hasn’t killed her yet. It’s obvious they both know the answer, but Xaden won’t give away his motives. He realizes her frustrations, but doesn’t exactly sympathize with her woes. Instead, he inspires her to prove everyone wrong that’s ever doubted her. His approach is still pretty apathetic, yet there’s a softness there. We can see that when Violet swears she feels his shadows caress her injured cheek. Xaden also wraps his shadows around them as they speak to keep their interaction private, but the intimacy behind the action builds the tension between them. He tells her that there’s always a way to get herself out of a situation if she thinks outside the box. She’s not satisfied with this answer, and interprets his coldness as humorous banter, which she’s offended by given the circumstance.
Personally, Xaden’s approach in his consolation is refreshing. Dain focuses on protecting her, and it seems slightly objectifying. Like I always say, I get his perspective. He’s protected her most of their lives together, and knows how fragile she can be. Xaden on the other hand obviously cares about her, but challenges her to excel past her problems with logic and strength. He views her as strong and capable, and has faith in her survival. This confidence and support is what she needs to grow and overcome her problems as an individual.
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