At Basgiath War College, Threshing is the brutal trial in which aspiring riders must win a dragon's bond or die in the attempt.
Thirteen cadets face dragon fire and ruthless rivals who will seize any advantage, while the dragons themselves decide who is chosen and who is lost.
Xaden Riorson leads with power, Rhiannon Matthias thinks quickly as a friend, Dain Aetos holds to the rules, Liam Mairi protects with kindness, and Ridoc Gamlyn answers danger with jokes.
Sawyer Henrick competes as the underdog, Garrick Tavis stays dependable, Imogen Cardulo fights on impulse, Bodhi Durran serves as second-in-command, and Mira Sorrengail rides without fear.
Brennan Sorrengail calculates every move, Aaric Graycastle strains against royal restlessness, and Sloane Mairi presses on as a determined sister.
A single choice that day can forge a rider or destroy one.
