Onyx Storm Characters

Violet is the central rider and narrator, bonded to Tairn and Andarna. She is determined to cure Xaden, protect her squad, and uncover hidden history, even when it requires treason or dangerous missions. The notes also refer to her as Cadet Sorrengail, Lieutenant Sorrengail, Sorrengail, and Amarali in one chapter summary.

Arc: Violet grows from suppressing grief and chasing a cure into a leader willing to disobey orders, negotiate with isles, wield lightning without a conduit, and eventually kill Theophanie. She loses Andarna's bond, learns she is legally married to Xaden, and wakes with no memory of her final battle.

• Xaden Riorson — her lover and bonded partner, later legally married to him
• Andarna — her bonded dragon who later breaks their bond and leaves
• Tairn — her bonded dragon
• Brennan Sorrengail — her brother
• Mira Sorrengail — her sister
• Rhiannon — squadmate and friend
• Ridoc — squadmate and friend
• Sawyer — squadmate and friend
• Imogen — friend and training partner
• Dain Aetos — oldest friend and sometimes ally
• Theophanie — enemy she ultimately kills
• Asher Sorrengail — her father
• Lilith Sorrengail — her deceased mother

Xaden is Violet's lover, a shadow wielder, Duke of Tyrrendor, and a venin initiate fighting to control his progression. He is protective, secretive, and willing to sacrifice himself for Violet and Tyrrendor. The notes also call him Lieutenant Riorson and Professor Riorson.

Arc: Xaden moves from hiding his red-rimmed eyes and distancing himself from Violet to openly defying Halden, preparing Bodhi as successor, and finally channeling deep to save Sgaeyl. He leaves Violet a Dunne-sealed marriage blessing and a note telling her not to look for him.

• Violet Sorrengail — his lover and later legal wife
• Sgaeyl — his bonded dragon
• Garrick — his best friend
• Bodhi — his cousin and first in line
• Berwyn — his Sage and enemy
• Halden — political rival he defies
• Aaric — ally he supports
• Tairn — does not trust him
• Fen Riorson — his father

Theophanie is a silver-haired venin Maven and storm wielder who hunts Violet and Andarna. She uses Mira as leverage, kills Maren's parents, and tries to force Violet to choose her as a teacher. She is ultimately killed by Violet with Aaric's marble dagger.

Arc: Theophanie escalates from taunting Violet to capturing Mira and attacking Draithus. She reveals she is a storm wielder, overpowers Violet, and is finally desiccated by Violet's lightning and marble dagger.

• Violet Sorrengail — enemy and target
• Mira Sorrengail — her captive
• Xaden Riorson — enemy she calls the shadow wielder
• Berwyn — rival Sage
• Jack Barlowe — she throws a dagger at him

Berwyn is a Sage and dark wielder, also referred to as the Sage in nightmares. He wants Violet delivered to him and uses Xaden's progression against him. He kills Panchek's dragon and threatens Sgaeyl before Xaden knocks him unconscious.

Arc: Berwyn haunts Xaden's dreams, betrays Panchek, and tries to force Xaden to channel deep. Xaden defeats him but notes Berwyn has something Xaden needs.

• Xaden Riorson — his Sage and enemy
• Violet Sorrengail — demands her delivery
• Theophanie — rival Maven
• Panchek — ally he betrays

Jack is a prisoner and antagonist who knows Xaden channeled from the earth. He taunts Xaden, answers Violet's questions about venin, and is later revealed inside the Rybestad chest. He takes satisfaction in wounding Violet emotionally.

Arc: Jack moves from taunting Xaden in the interrogation chamber to being used as bait and hidden in the chest. He gives Violet limited information but refuses to name his Sage.

• Xaden Riorson — prisoner who taunts him
• Violet Sorrengail — enemy and interrogator
• Theophanie — she hurls a dagger at him

Panchek is a colonel and traitor who deals with Berwyn. He cowers when Berwyn betrays him and has his dragon killed. He is a minor but dangerous enemy.

Arc: Panchek moves from leadership to betrayed collaborator. Berwyn kills his dragon and he is left helpless.

• Berwyn — deals with him and is betrayed
• Carr — orders him to act
• Xaden Riorson — traitor

Faris is the second of Hedotis's triumvirate and Talia's husband. He hosts the group, poisons the cake that Garrick eats, and refuses the antidote until Violet threatens him. He is politically calculating and cruel.

Arc: Faris moves from host to poisoner and is forced to let the group leave after Violet turns his own poison against the triumvirate.

• Talia — his wife
• Xaden Riorson — hosts him because Talia is his mother
• Violet Sorrengail — adversary and negotiator
• Garrick — poisons him

Andarna is Violet's second bonded dragon, later revealed as an irid. She is fierce, loyal, and struggling with her identity and injured wing. She helps Violet find a cure, confronts Theophanie, and ultimately leaves with Leothan.

Arc: Andarna goes from a hidden juvenile to an irid who finds her own kind, confirms Violet's dream-walking, and breaks her bond with Violet. She chooses to leave with Leothan to learn irid ways, devastating Violet.

• Violet Sorrengail — her bonded rider
• Tairn — fellow dragon she argues with and is protected by
• Leothan — irid who takes her home
• Theophanie — enemy she confronts

Tairn is Violet's bonded dragon, powerful, protective, and blunt. He distrusts Xaden, defends Andarna, and insists Violet accept sacrifice in battle. He is wounded by a wingspur and later needs rest.

Arc: Tairn remains Violet's anchor and weapon, fighting wyvern and Theophanie. After Andarna leaves, he keeps his bond with Violet wide open and grounds her through their connection.

• Violet Sorrengail — his bonded rider
• Andarna — fellow dragon bonded to Violet
• Sgaeyl — his mate
• Xaden Riorson — distrusts him
• Naolin — previous rider he refuses to speak of

Sgaeyl is Xaden's bonded dragon and Tairn's mate. She is angry, protective, and severely affected by Xaden's changed state. She threatens Marlis, defends Andarna, and later questions Xaden's plan.

Arc: Sgaeyl withdraws from Xaden when she senses he is not whole, but she flies with him to Deverelli and later is captured. Xaden frees her, and she agrees to ask Tairn for help while warning that Violet's decision will determine their fate.

• Xaden Riorson — her bonded rider
• Tairn — her mate
• Andarna — dragon she defends
• Berwyn — enemy who threatens her

Brennan is Violet's brother, a healer, and a leader in Aretia's revolution. He argues with Mira, mends Violet's injuries, and forces Violet to choose one objective during Theophanie's trap. He knows Xaden is venin and helps defend Aretia.

Arc: Brennan remains protective of Violet while supporting the larger mission. He heals Mira's slit throat with Sloane's transferred power and later reveals Violet's marriage to Xaden.

• Violet Sorrengail — his sister
• Mira Sorrengail — his sister
• Xaden Riorson — ally who knows his secret
• Sloane — receives power through her to save Mira

Mira is Violet's sister, a shield wielder, and rider of Teine. She is protective, blunt, and skeptical of risking Violet's life for strangers. She argues with Brennan and later confronts Xaden after learning he is venin.

Arc: Mira moves from trying to keep Violet out of danger to joining dangerous missions, being captured by Theophanie, and surviving a slit throat. She ends by threatening Xaden and leaving Violet to decide her own path.

• Violet Sorrengail — her sister
• Brennan Sorrengail — her brother
• Teine — her dragon
• Xaden Riorson — threatens him after learning he is venin
• Theophanie — her captor

Rhiannon, often called Rhi, is Violet's squadmate, friend, and squad leader. She is disciplined, protective, and willing to fight for her squad and civilians. She rides Feirge and takes command at Medaro Pass.

Arc: Rhiannon grows into a confident leader, helping Violet in dangerous missions and eventually commanding a depleted squad against a wyvern horde. She survives the battle and reunites with Violet after the irid mission fails.

• Violet Sorrengail — squadmate and friend
• Feirge — her dragon
• Ridoc — squadmate
• Sawyer — squadmate
• Sloane — squadmate she lectures

Ridoc is Violet's squadmate and friend, known for humor and ice wielding. He rides Aotrom and uses jokes to lighten tense situations. He is fiercely loyal and confronts Violet about Xaden's secret.

Arc: Ridoc moves from comic relief to someone who forces Violet to name a line for walking away from Xaden. He helps fight wyvern and saves Violet by extinguishing a burning tree with ice.

• Violet Sorrengail — squadmate and friend
• Aotrom — his dragon
• Rhiannon — squadmate
• Sawyer — friend he loves like a brother
• Xaden Riorson — confronts him about being a dark wielder

Sawyer is Violet's squadmate, a metallurgist, and a rider who lost his lower leg. He struggles with his prosthesis but refuses to give up flying. He rides Sliseag and helps alter the wardstone.

Arc: Sawyer moves from the infirmary to learning to climb and ride again with a prosthesis. He successfully mounts Sliseag and continues to support his squad despite his injury.

• Violet Sorrengail — squadmate and friend
• Sliseag — his dragon
• Ridoc — squadmate and friend
• Rhiannon — squadmate
• Jesinia — close friend and romantic interest

Imogen is Violet's friend, squadmate, and training partner. She is fierce, protective, and carries rage over her mother and sister. She rides Glane and fights beside Aetos on the wall.

Arc: Imogen supports Violet's plans, trains her, and fights to protect Bodhi and Quinn. After Quinn dies in her arms, she is devastated but continues to protect those she loves.

• Violet Sorrengail — friend and training partner
• Glane — her dragon
• Quinn Hollis — her best friend who dies in her arms
• Garrick — friend who carries her and Quinn out
• Bodhi — protects him during battle

Garrick is Xaden's best friend, a distance wielder, and rider of Chradh. He is loyal, protective of Violet, and often banters with Imogen. He also appears as Lieutenant Tavis in the notes.

Arc: Garrick helps Violet after crashes, conceals his second signet, and fights in major battles. During Theophanie's attack, he carries Quinn's body and Imogen to safety, then goes missing.

• Xaden Riorson — his best friend
• Chradh — his dragon
• Violet Sorrengail — friend and ally
• Imogen — friend he comforts and carries
• Quinn Hollis — carries her body after death

Bodhi is Xaden's cousin, first in line for Tyrrendor, and rider of Cuir. He is loyal, often frustrated by Xaden's refusal to let him fight. He supports Violet and the squad.

Arc: Bodhi argues with Xaden about being sidelined, stays in the house during the Draithus battle, and is carried off the field by Cuir. He remains first in line and later fights above the city.

• Xaden Riorson — his cousin and first in line
• Cuir — his dragon
• Violet Sorrengail — ally and friend
• Garrick — friend

Dain is Violet's oldest friend, a wingleader, and General Aetos's son. He tries to uphold the Codex, helps Violet steal her father's research, and fights in major battles. He carries guilt over Liam's death.

Arc: Dain moves from a conflicted friend to an ally who disobeys his father, helps Violet, and saves Mira by offering his power to Sloane. He is later saved from a wyvern by Xaden.

• Violet Sorrengail — oldest friend and ally
• General Aetos — his father who disowns him
• Sloane — restrains and then empowers her
• Liam Mairi — feels guilt over his death
• Xaden Riorson — uneasy ally

General Aetos, also called Colonel Aetos, is Dain's father and a hostile commanding general. He arrests Violet, punishes her squad, and denies Xaden's Code of Conduct exemption. He later fights venin on the wall with Imogen.

Arc: Aetos begins as an antagonist to Violet and Xaden but gradually becomes willing to break rules against venin. He ends by fighting alongside Imogen and desiccating dark wielders.

• Dain Aetos — his son whom he disowns
• Violet Sorrengail — hostile commander
• Xaden Riorson — antagonistic commander
• Imogen — fights beside her on the wall
• Cath — his dragon

Cat is a Poromish flier, mindworker, and rider of Kiralair. She is Catriona, Tecarus's niece, Syrena's sister, and a former contract prospect for Xaden. She is sharp, competitive, and grieving after Trager's death.

Arc: Cat moves from Violet's rival to a grudging ally who fights beside the squad. She loses Trager, confronts Xaden's choices, and continues to support Poromiel and her friends.

• Violet Sorrengail — rival turned ally
• Kiralair — her gryphon
• Maren — best friend
• Trager — someone she mourns and may have loved
• Tecarus — her uncle
• Syrena Cordella — her sister

Maren is a Poromish flier and Cat's best friend. She is caring, protective of her brothers, and devastated when Theophanie kills her parents. She helps rescue her family and fights beside the squad.

Arc: Maren moves from worrying about her family to losing them and fighting in major battles. She mourns Trager and Silaraine and remains loyal to Cat and the squad.

• Cat — best friend
• Violet Sorrengail — squadmate and friend
• Theophanie — killed her parents to lure Violet
• Trager — squadmate she mourns
• Drake Cordella — fellow flier

Aaric, also called Cam or Prince Camlaen, is Halden's brother and King Tauri's son. He is a rider bonded to Molvic, fluent in several languages, and later revealed to be a precog. He chooses to side with Xaden.

Arc: Aaric moves from a hidden prince to an open rider who joins Violet's expedition, defies Halden, and sides with Xaden. His precognition helps Violet kill Theophanie.

• Halden — his brother
• King Tauri — his father
• Molvic — his dragon
• Violet Sorrengail — friend and ally
• Xaden Riorson — sides with him

Halden is the crown prince of Navarre and Violet's ex-boyfriend. He is politically powerful, proud, and often at odds with Xaden. He is captured by King Courtlyn and later confronts Xaden over Tyrrendor's borders.

Arc: Halden moves from trying to interfere in Violet's mission to being held captive, banned from Deverelli, and confronting Xaden. He remains a political rival but is later kept alive.

• Violet Sorrengail — her ex-boyfriend
• Aaric — his brother
• Xaden Riorson — rival he defies and is defied by
• King Tauri — his father
• King Courtlyn — holds him captive

King Tauri is the king of Navarre and father of Halden and Aaric. He restores Xaden's title and later orders Talladium restored. He forbids punishment for Aaric after his return.

Arc: King Tauri remains a distant political authority who both rewards and pressures Xaden. His orders shape Xaden's choices and Tyrrendor's place in Navarre.

• Halden — his son
• Aaric — his son
• Xaden Riorson — orders him to restore Talladium

Queen Maraya is the queen of Poromiel who supports Violet and offers her library access. She appreciates Violet's risk for the fliers. She is later killed when Suniva falls.

Arc: Queen Maraya helps Violet research and negotiate, then dies before the story ends. Her death affects Cat and the Poromish alliance.

• Violet Sorrengail — offers library access and support
• Cat — queen she is in line to succeed
• Tecarus — fellow Poromish leader

Tecarus is Cat's uncle, a collector of rarities, and later king. He makes bargains with Violet, hosts the group, and negotiates with King Courtlyn. He is politically calculating but helpful.

Arc: Tecarus moves from Viscount to king, hosting the group in Cordyn and arranging meetings. He continues to hold Violet to their bargain and sends her books even during war.

• Violet Sorrengail — has a bargain with her
• Cat — her uncle
• King Courtlyn — host and political counterpart
• Xaden Riorson — host and negotiator

King Courtlyn is the ruler of Deverelli, a neutral trade isle. He stabs Halden's hand, threatens execution, and negotiates with Violet and Xaden. He is pragmatic and dangerous.

Arc: Courtlyn moves from host to captor and then to grudging ally after Violet uses Andarna's eggshell as leverage. He pardons Xaden, bans Halden, and allows the group to leave.

• Halden — holds him and stabs his hand
• Violet Sorrengail — negotiates with her
• Xaden Riorson — pardons him in the deal
• Tecarus — political counterpart

Marlis is the queen of Unnbriel who fights Amarali in the challenge before revealing her identity. She demands twelve dragon eggs for an alliance and refuses to fight alongside the group. She grants an audience after losing two of three matches.

Arc: Marlis tests the challengers, demands dragon eggs, and refuses an alliance on Violet's terms. She remains a potential but unsatisfied ally.

• Violet Sorrengail — opponent in the challenge and negotiator
• Xaden Riorson — opponent and negotiator
• Sgaeyl — dragon who bares teeth at her

Leothan is an irid dragon who reveals he fired the wardstone, saving Aretia. He offers to take Andarna home to learn irid ways and argues she should break her bond with Violet. He disappears with Andarna.

Arc: Leothan moves from observer to the irid who saves Aretia and takes Andarna away. He remains central to Andarna's choice and Violet's loss.

• Andarna — same bloodline and takes her home
• Violet Sorrengail — speaks with her before leaving
• Tairn — fellow dragon affected by Andarna's departure

Asher Sorrengail, also referred to as Asher Daxton in one chapter note, is Violet's father. He left her letters, books, and a manuscript warning her to trust no one and seek a weapon. His field guide helps Violet save Garrick.

Arc: Asher is dead before the story but drives Violet's search through his hidden research and instructions. His legacy leads Violet to Narelle, Deverelli, and the isles.

• Violet Sorrengail — his daughter
• Mira Sorrengail — his daughter
• Narelle Anselm — confidant who kept his books

Lilith, also called General Sorrengail, is Violet's deceased mother. She died securing Basgiath and the wards. Her unsent correspondence worries about Violet's heart overruling logic.

Arc: Lilith is dead before the story but haunts Violet's grief and family conflicts. Her choices and journals remain central to Mira and Brennan's arguments.

• Violet Sorrengail — her daughter
• Mira Sorrengail — her daughter
• Brennan Sorrengail — her son
• General Melgren — mentions her death

Liam is Sloane's older brother and a deceased rider. His death weighs on Dain's conscience and is referenced by Sloane. He always went with Violet when she had Archives duty.

Arc: Liam is dead before the story but his memory affects Sloane and Dain. His death remains part of their guilt and motivation.

• Sloane — her older brother
• Dain Aetos — his death is on Dain's head
• Violet Sorrengail — always accompanied her on Archives duty

Sloane is Liam's younger sister and a first-year rider with a siphon signet. She feels guilt over Violet's mother's death and fears her own power. She later saves Mira by transferring power from Dain to Brennan.

Arc: Sloane moves from guilt and fear of her signet to using it to save Mira. She remains angry and conflicted but becomes vital in battle.

• Liam Mairi — her older brother
• Violet Sorrengail — apologizes to her and later helps save Mira
• Dain Aetos — antagonistic but uses his power
• Brennan Sorrengail — transfers power to him

Aura is a fire-wielding rider who opposes the Aretian riders and flier alliance. She forces a challenge, is disarmed by Violet, and later accidentally kills Captain Grady. She is killed by a wyvern.

Arc: Aura moves from hostile challenger to fearful officer whose wielding causes Grady's death and the burning of Anca. She dies shortly after.

• Violet Sorrengail — adversary
• Dain Aetos — adversary she challenges
• Captain Grady — accidentally kills him
• Dagolh — her dragon

Ewan Faber is a Navarrian wingleader who stands with Aura and sarcastically greets Violet's group. He represents the Navarrian riders hostile to the Aretians.

Arc: Ewan remains a minor opposing voice in the quadrant, supporting Aura's hardline stance.

• Aura Beinhaven — stands with her
• Violet Sorrengail — hostile toward her group

Devera is a professor who leads Battle Brief and unveils the venin map. She supports Violet's speech and announces new classes and leadership changes. She aims to prepare cadets for the new war.

Arc: Devera remains a steady authority who teaches cadets about the venin threat and supports integration. She helps restore order during the courtyard standoff.

• Violet Sorrengail — professor who supports her
• Kiandra — co-leader of Battle Brief
• Xaden Riorson — introduces him as Professor Riorson

Kiandra is a professor who co-leads Battle Brief with Devera. She lectures on venin tactics and the armory theft. She supports the alliance and integration of fliers.

Arc: Kiandra remains a supporting instructor, helping cadets learn from Suniva's fall and the venin threat.

• Devera — co-leader of Battle Brief
• Violet Sorrengail — professor

Kaori is a professor who teaches dismounting and battle-mounts. He creates projections for battle planning and leads part of the Aretia rotation. He is snapped at by Andarna.

Arc: Kaori remains a training instructor and planner, helping the squad prepare for new warfare.

• Violet Sorrengail — her professor
• Andarna — she snaps at him
• Brennan Sorrengail — provides projection for planning
• Xaden Riorson — colleague who thinks an exemption possible

Emetterio is a professor who arrives with Devera and Kaori during the courtyard standoff. He reveals that the last shadow and lightning wielders fought side by side against the venin. He supports the cadets fighting the common enemy.

Arc: Emetterio remains a minor professor who helps restore order and links Xaden and Violet's signets historically.

• Devera — fellow professor
• Kaori — fellow professor
• Xaden Riorson — links his shadow signet with Violet's lightning
• Violet Sorrengail — supports her speech

Carr is a professor who uses harsh training methods. He argues with Garrick and executes a turning cadet with an alloy-hilted dagger. He is an immediate and brutal authority in the pit.

Arc: Carr remains a hardline instructor, willing to kill a turning cadet without hesitation.

• Garrick — antagonistic
• Panchek — superior who orders him to act
• Lynx — Rhiannon takes Lynx to him

Markham is the commandant who removes Jesinia from the adept path and strips her privileges. He hides centuries of history and interrogates Jack. He whispers with Halden and pushes for searching Aretia.

Arc: Markham remains an institutional antagonist who hides knowledge and opposes Violet's research. Violet publicly denounces him, but he continues to hold power.

• Jesinia — commandant who removes her from adept path
• Violet Sorrengail — she accuses him of hiding history
• Halden — whispers with him at the table

Captain Grady is Violet's RSC professor and the assigned task force leader. He organizes the quest squad and leads the mission into Anca. He is accidentally killed by Aura's fire.

Arc: Grady moves from controlling the quest squad to leading the fatal Anca mission. His death shocks the group and sparks blame against Xaden.

• Violet Sorrengail — her professor and quest squad leader
• Aura Beinhaven — she accidentally kills him
• Jesinia — her official research supervisor

Felix is Violet's signet instructor who brings her a new conduit and trains her relentlessly. He reports that the wards are failing and warns that Tyrrendor cannot lose its duke. He opposes Violet joining dangerous missions.

Arc: Felix remains a demanding trainer who pushes Violet and warns her she is not ready. He continues to prepare her for war even as she disobeys orders.

• Violet Sorrengail — her signet instructor
• Xaden Riorson — advises him as duke
• Trissa — fellow Assembly member

Trissa is a rune instructor who works with Mira and teaches the all-day runes class. She inspects students' work and later helps with weaving after Quinn's death. She is practical and sharp.

Arc: Trissa remains a supporting instructor, helping the group with runes and treating the aftermath of Quinn's death.

• Mira Sorrengail — worked with her reviewing runes
• Garrick — answers his question about weaving
• Quinn Hollis — tends to her after arrival

Jesinia is a scribe and Violet's friend who helps with research. She was removed from the adept path and stripped of privileges for choosing Aretia. She intercepts Violet's mail and provides tomes.

Arc: Jesinia remains a quiet but vital ally who helps Violet access banned knowledge. She continues to assist the quest squad by recording missions and finding books.

• Violet Sorrengail — friend and research partner
• Sawyer — close friend and romantic interest
• Markham — commandant who punishes her
• Grady — official supervisor of her assignment

Dyre is a healer who lets Violet's group into the infirmary. He accepts valerian root tincture to keep other healers asleep. He repays Violet for saving his life.

Arc: Dyre remains a minor but helpful ally who enables the wardstone mission.

• Violet Sorrengail — she saved his life and he repays her

Degrensi is a lieutenant colonel at Samara who refuses to send cadets into battle. He updates Violet on Newhall and Poromish civilians and asks her to keep Tairn hidden. He is battle-weary and practical.

Arc: Degrensi remains a pragmatic officer focused on protecting the post and cadets. He allows Violet's squad to make their own dangerous choice.

• Violet Sorrengail — asks her to hide Tairn
• Rhiannon — gives orders to her

Captain Henson is an air-wielding officer on the quest squad. She questions Grady's northern plan and orders evacuation during the Anca disaster. She later takes command of the quest squad search.

Arc: Henson moves from skeptical quest squad member to a leader during the Anca escape. She survives and continues to serve.

• Captain Grady — questions his search area
• Violet Sorrengail — asks her opinion on the search

Pugh is a lieutenant and Farsight who distrusts Xaden. He glowers at Xaden and blames him for Grady's death. Xaden pins him against a wall.

Arc: Pugh remains a hostile officer whose distrust of Xaden intensifies after Grady's death.

• Xaden Riorson — antagonistic and accuses him
• Captain Grady — fellow officer who dies

Foley is a lieutenant and Agrarian who distrusts Xaden. He snaps at Xaden about hiding a venin for six years. He represents military resentment toward Xaden.

Arc: Foley remains a minor hostile officer who challenges Xaden's priorities.

• Xaden Riorson — hostile and accuses him

Captain Anna Winshire is the quest squad's infantry liaison and Halden's guard. She is sarcastic and proud, refusing help when exiting the basket. She is killed by King Courtlyn, who reveals her severed head.

Arc: Winshire moves from skeptical officer to Halden's doomed guard. Her death is used to accuse Halden of theft.

• Halden — his guard
• King Courtlyn — kills her

Baylor is a first-year who warns Violet's group about the forced challenge. He helps drag Kai back from the fight. He is part of the younger squad supporting Violet.

Arc: Baylor remains a minor first-year ally who helps prevent violence in the courtyard.

• Sloane — enters with him
• Kai — squadmate he restrains
• Violet Sorrengail — squadmate

Kai is a first-year cadet who tries to accept the forced challenge. He is restrained by Baylor and escorted by Aaric. He is protected by older squadmates.

Arc: Kai remains a minor first-year who is kept out of the fight and guided by Aaric.

• Aaric — escorted by him
• Baylor — restrains him
• Rhiannon — orders Aaric to watch him

Lynx is a cadet who manifests shadow wielding. He is frightened and unable to control it until Xaden calms him. Xaden says Lynx is the new balance and that he is no longer the generation's shadow wielder.

Arc: Lynx moves from frightened manifestor to a new shadow wielder under Xaden's guidance. His emergence signals a shift in power.

• Xaden Riorson — calms him and calls him the balance
• Rhiannon — rushes to him and takes him to Carr
• Carr — takes him for help

Caroline Ashton is a First Wing squad leader who questions non-wielders in signet sparring. She is knocked back by Xaden's shadows. She clashes with Cat over mindwork.

Arc: Caroline remains a minor First Wing cadet who tests the limits of sparring and is humbled by Xaden.

• Xaden Riorson — defeated by his shadows
• Cat — clashes with her over non-wielders

Loran Yashil is a cocky third-year who challenges Xaden's authority as a teacher. He fights with sword and dagger but is defeated by Xaden's shadows. He questions whether Xaden defeating everyone is new.

Arc: Loran remains a minor challenger who is quickly defeated by Xaden during Signet Sparring.

• Xaden Riorson — student who challenges and is defeated by him

Neve is a cadet who uses lesser magic to levitate daggers at Xaden during sparring. She is defeated when shadows return the blades above her collarbones. She later fights on the cliffside during battle.

Arc: Neve remains a minor cadet who trains, spars, and fights wyvern at Medaro Pass.

• Xaden Riorson — opponent in sparring
• Rhiannon — squadmate
• Bragen — squadmate positioned with her

Quinn is Violet's squadmate, a mindworker who creates illusions, and rider of Cruth. She is cheerful, brave, and in love with Jax. She dies on the tower stairs after saving women and children.

Arc: Quinn helps with runes and battles illusions, then dies in Imogen's arms after killing a venin. Her death devastates Imogen and the squad.

• Imogen — best friend
• Cruth — her dragon
• Jax — the woman she loves and means to marry
• Violet Sorrengail — squadmate

Trager is a Poromish flier, healer, and companion of Cat. He treats wounds and hunts with Cat. He is killed by Zihnal's arrow on Zehyllna and is burned with Silaraine.

Arc: Trager supports the squad and treats injuries until he is killed by the gift game. His death is mourned deeply by Cat and the group.

• Cat — companion she mourns
• Silaraine — his gryphon who dies with him
• Maren — squadmate

Silaraine is Trager's gryphon. She strains toward him, collapses, and dies after he is killed. Kiralair covers her body.

Arc: Silaraine dies immediately after Trager and is burned with him on a minor isle.

• Trager — her rider
• Kiralair — fellow gryphon who covers her body

Kiralair, also called Kira, is Cat's gryphon. She supports Silaraine as she dies and later tears into a wyvern during battle. She is disgruntled when ordered to guard evacuees.

Arc: Kiralair remains Cat's loyal gryphon, fighting beside her and mourning Silaraine.

• Cat — her rider
• Silaraine — supports her in death

Drake Cordella is a flier, Cat's cousin, and rider of Sova. He helps the group travel, argues with Mira, and performs funeral rites for Trager and Silaraine. He is kneed by Mira after endangering Violet.

Arc: Drake remains a supporting flier who helps the mission and mourns Trager. He continues to travel and search with the group.

• Cat — her cousin
• Mira Sorrengail — argues with her and is threatened by her
• Sova — his gryphon

Syrena Cordella is Cat's sister and a Poromish leader. She is mentioned through Cat and others and is confirmed safe after Suniva falls. She is part of Cat's family and succession.

Arc: Syrena remains off-page but important to Cat's identity and Poromiel's leadership.

• Cat — her sister
• Tecarus — family relation

Narelle is a Deverelli book dealer who kept Asher Sorrengail's books for Violet. She tests Violet with three questions before releasing them. She is protective of Asher's work.

Arc: Narelle moves from wary shopkeeper to ally who gives Violet her father's books after testing her worthiness.

• Asher Sorrengail — confidant who kept his books
• Violet Sorrengail — tests her and gives her the books
• Leona — her daughter
• Urson — her grandson

Leona is Narelle's daughter and works in the Tomes and Tales bookshop. She calls for her mother during the fight and fetches Asher's books. She speaks the common tongue.

Arc: Leona remains a minor Deverelli ally who helps retrieve the books after Violet proves herself.

• Narelle Anselm — her mother
• Urson — her son

Urson is Narelle's grandson who attacks Violet to protect the books. He is wounded by Violet's dagger and later obeys Narelle. He distrusts riders.

Arc: Urson moves from attacker to subdued helper after Narelle orders him to assist his sister.

• Narelle Anselm — his grandmother
• Leona — his mother

Calixta is the mistress of festivities on Zehyllna. She enforces the gift game of Zihnal and watches for complaints. She announces the arrow that kills Trager.

Arc: Calixta remains a detached enforcer of Zehyllna's laws and luck-based rule.

• Violet Sorrengail — addresses her as leader
• Trager — announces his fatal arrow

Talia is Xaden's mother, who left him when his contract expired and built a new family on Hedotis. She invites him to dinner and serves chocolate cake. She is devastated when Garrick collapses from Faris's poison.

Arc: Talia tries to reconnect with Xaden but is confronted for abandoning him. She remains emotionally torn and married to Faris.

• Xaden Riorson — her son she abandoned
• Faris — her husband
• Simeon — her son
• Gaius — her son

Nairi is a member of Hedotis's triumvirate who questions the group about alliances and heirs. She proposes Xaden contract with Cat and praises Mira's bluntness. She is poisoned by Violet's arinmint.

Arc: Nairi remains a political tester who favors contract marriage and heirs until Violet turns the dinner against the triumvirate.

• Faris — fellow triumvirate member
• Roslyn — fellow triumvirate member

Roslyn is a member of Hedotis's triumvirate who questions Mira and Violet about the isle and the seventh breed. She agrees a contract marriage would secure an heir. She is poisoned by Violet's arinmint.

Arc: Roslyn remains a political evaluator who tests the group's wisdom until Violet turns the dinner against the triumvirate.

• Faris — fellow triumvirate member
• Nairi — fellow triumvirate member

DesERvEE is a high priestess of Dunne, appearing at Unnbriel to cut warriors and demand tests of worthiness. Recovered correspondence from her warns that only those touched by the gods should wield their wrath. She says Violet's path is not set.

Arc: She tests Xaden, Dain, and Violet in bloodshed, then later her correspondence warns about divine wrath and Violet's uncertain path.

• Dunne — high priestess of Dunne
• Aaric — correspondent
• Violet Sorrengail — cuts her arm and warns about her path
• Xaden Riorson — demands payment before he may prove worthiness

Lewellen is a Tyrrendor council member who represents Aretia and supports Violet. He reads Andarna's demands, gives Violet Tecarus's missive, and argues for opening borders to civilians. He serves as Xaden's proxy.

Arc: Lewellen remains a political ally who supports Xaden's decisions and Tyrrendor's interests. He advises Violet about the burden of loving someone in power.

• Violet Sorrengail — ally
• Xaden Riorson — ally and proxy
• Duke of Calldyr — political opponent

The Duke of Calldyr argues against opening Tyrrendor's borders to Poromish civilians. He fears weakening outposts and starving the kingdom. He retreats when Xaden's shadows curl.

Arc: The duke remains a political opponent to Xaden's decisions, representing isolationist fears.

• Lewellen — political opponent
• Xaden Riorson — retreats from his shadows

General Melgren is a senior Navarrian leader who leads the Senarium and assigns the task force to Captain Grady. He forbids access to the interrogation chamber and warns Xaden not to fly into battle. He wants the mission controlled by the military.

Arc: Melgren remains an authority figure who tries to contain Violet and Xaden's influence, though he later warns Xaden against battle.

• Violet Sorrengail — addresses and dismisses her
• Captain Grady — chosen task force leader
• Xaden Riorson — warns him not to fly into battle

The Duchess of Morraine sits on the Senarium and objects to Xaden leaving without an heir. She suggests her daughter as a contract match. She distrusts Xaden and Tyrrendor.

Arc: The duchess remains a political obstacle who wants her bloodline tied to Tyrrendor and distrusts Xaden.

• Xaden Riorson — proposes her daughter as a match
• Halden — he exposes her meaning

Varrish is the deceased vice commandant. Dain and Violet both claim to have killed him. His death is used by General Aetos against Xaden.

Arc: Varrish is dead before the main events but his death remains a political weapon against Dain and Xaden.

• Dain Aetos — says he killed him
• Violet Sorrengail — says she killed him
• General Aetos — uses his death against Xaden

Naolin is Tairn's previous rider, mentioned as the one who came before. Tairn refuses to speak of him. His existence is briefly noted in Violet's bond with Tairn.

Arc: Naolin remains a mysterious past figure Tairn will not discuss.

• Tairn — previous rider he refuses to speak of

Niara is Violet's grandmother, estranged from Violet's parents. Mira visited her about missing journal months. She hated Violet's mother and is a sore subject.

Arc: Niara remains off-page but important to the family's secrets and Mira's investigation.

• Violet Sorrengail — her grandmother
• Mira Sorrengail — her grandmother whom Mira visited
• Lilith Sorrengail — hated her

Jax is Quinn's girlfriend and the woman Quinn intends to marry. Quinn asks Imogen to tell Jax she loves her before dying. She is not physically present in the notes.

Arc: Jax remains off-page but is central to Quinn's final words and Imogen's grief.

• Quinn Hollis — her girlfriend who loves her
• Imogen — Quinn asks Imogen to tell Jax she loves her

Fen Riorson is Xaden's father and a rebellion leader. He is mentioned in correspondence and in Xaden's past. His rebellion shapes Xaden's reputation and burdens.

Arc: Fen is dead before the story but his legacy drives Xaden's political position and internal conflict.

• Xaden Riorson — his father
• Narelle Anselm — she recognizes Xaden as his son

Aotrom is Ridoc's dragon, frustrated by the communication barrier and prone to roaring at Ridoc. He carries Trager's body and lights the funeral pyre. He fights beside Ridoc and pranks him.

Arc: Aotrom remains Ridoc's loyal, expressive dragon, helping in funerals and battles.

• Ridoc — his rider
• Tairn — confronted by him

Chradh is Garrick's dragon, injured while saving Garrick. He carries the Rybestad chest and fights a wyvern. He is protective of Garrick.

Arc: Chradh remains Garrick's battle companion, helping transport the chest and surviving injuries.

• Garrick — his rider

Feirge is Rhiannon's dragon, fighting wyvern and relaying orders. She is sarcastic and urges Rhiannon to accept fear. She helps protect the pass and Aretia.

Arc: Feirge remains Rhiannon's loyal dragon, fighting in major battles and supporting her rider's leadership.

• Rhiannon — her rider

Teine is Mira's dragon. He is captured by Theophanie, chained, and bleeding, and cannot wake. Tairn carries him to the cliffs.

Arc: Teine is captured and wounded, then rescued from the field by Tairn. He survives but is not awake in the notes.

• Mira Sorrengail — his bonded rider
• Theophanie — captor
• Tairn — carries him to safety

Cuir is Bodhi's dragon, carrying him off the field when Theophanie attacks. He fights wyvern and suffers a hole in his wing. He is protective of Bodhi.

Arc: Cuir remains Bodhi's loyal dragon, fighting above the city and removing Bodhi from danger.

• Bodhi — his rider

Glane is Imogen's dragon, fighting wyvern and defending Cuir and Bodhi. She argues with Imogen about kill count and relays messages. She survives the battle.

Arc: Glane remains Imogen's fierce dragon, fighting alongside her and mourning Quinn.

• Imogen — her rider
• Quinn Hollis — relays messages about her

Cruth is Quinn's dragon, relaying messages from the armory turret. He roars after Quinn's death. He warns about insufficient weapons and water.

Arc: Cruth remains Quinn's dragon until her death, then mourns her.

• Quinn Hollis — her dragon
• Imogen — relays Quinn's messages to her

Molvic is Aaric's blue dragon. He arrives with Aaric on the flight field and later brings the advance party from Zehyllna during battle. He recognizes Ridoc.

Arc: Molvic remains Aaric's dragon, joining the expedition and bringing reinforcements.

• Aaric — his rider
• Tairn — relays his arrival

Sliseag is Sawyer's dragon, who steams Sawyer and then lowers his leg so Sawyer can climb. He is insulted when Rhiannon asks about him. He fights in formation.

Arc: Sliseag supports Sawyer's recovery by allowing him to mount on his own terms.

• Sawyer — his rider

Cath is General Aetos's dragon. He launches into the air above the city during the battle. He sleeps while others sleep and flicks his swordtail as if on watch.

Arc: Cath remains General Aetos's dragon, fighting during the Draithus battle.

• General Aetos — his dragon

Dagolh is Aura Beinhaven's dragon, mentioned as approaching to pick her up before she is killed. He does not appear significantly otherwise.

Arc: Dagolh is left without a rider after Aura is killed by a wyvern.

• Aura Beinhaven — her dragon

Sova, also referred to as Sovadunn, is Drake Cordella's gryphon. He shakes his silver head as if trying to clear it when magic is cut off. He travels with Drake.

Arc: Sova remains Drake's gryphon, supporting the group's travel and missions.

• Drake Cordella — his gryphon

Maise is a dragon who relays an order for Violet and Tairn to return immediately. She is Greim's mate. Tairn ignores her order.

Arc: Maise remains a minor dragon enforcing military orders.

• Greim — her mate
• Tairn — he ignores her order

Thoirt is a red dragon with a torn wing who flies away from the city with another red dragon. Violet recognizes her wing pattern.

Arc: Thoirt appears briefly during the battle, flying away from Draithus with another red dragon.

Simeon is Talia's young son and Xaden's half-brother. He runs out excitedly after Sgaeyl roars and calls Talia Mama. He is part of Talia's new family.

Arc: Simeon remains a minor child on Hedotis, representing Talia's new family.

• Talia — his mother
• Gaius — his brother
• Xaden Riorson — his half-brother

Gaius is Talia's young son and Xaden's half-brother. He runs out with Simeon after Sgaeyl roars. He calls Talia Mama.

Arc: Gaius remains a minor child on Hedotis, part of Talia's new family.

• Talia — his mother
• Simeon — his brother
• Xaden Riorson — his half-brother

Blue Sash is a Deverelli guard who demands Xaden and Violet surrender weapons and leave their dragons at the barricade. He escorts them to King Courtlyn's table. He enforces Deverelli customs.

Arc: Blue Sash remains a minor Deverelli official enforcing the king's rules.

• King Courtlyn — enforces his rules

Costa is an Unnbriel warrior chosen as Xaden's opponent in the trial by combat. He pins Xaden but is wounded by Violet's thrown dagger and knocked unconscious. He is a huge bare-armed fighter.

Arc: Costa fights Xaden in the challenge and is defeated after Violet intervenes.

• Xaden Riorson — his opponent
• Violet Sorrengail — she wounds him to save Xaden
• Palta — possibly his twin and fellow warrior

Palta is an Unnbriel warrior chosen as Dain's opponent. He knocks Dain unconscious and puts a boot on his neck. He fights beside Costa and Marlis.

Arc: Palta defeats Dain in the challenge and later fights beside Xaden and Dain's side in the broader trial.

• Dain Aetos — his opponent
• Costa — possibly his twin
• Queen Marlis — fellow Unnbriel warrior