Violet
Violet Sorrengail, the protagonist in the book, is a young woman thrust into the challenging world of dragon-riding against her original aspirations as a scribe. Despite her frailty, manifested in a susceptibility to injuries, she displays a steely determination to prove herself in the brutal environment of Basgiath War College.
Her internal conflict is evident as she reluctantly embraces the role of a dragon rider, a path chosen by her mother, General Sorrengail. Violet's deep familial connections, particularly with her older sister Mira who vehemently objects to her involvement in the dangerous rider's quadrant, accentuate her vulnerability.
Yet, in the face of adversity, Violet exhibits resourcefulness as seen in her strategic use of dragon scales for protection and her clandestine use of poison during sparring matches. Her relationships, notably with dragons Tairn and Andarna as well as the unfolding romance with Xaden, contribute to Violet's intricate and captivating character arc.
General Sorrengail (Violet's mother)
As the mother of the protagonist, Violet, and the high-ranking military leader in Navarre's army, General Sorrengail epitomizes a formidable blend of strength and responsibility. Her decision to conscript Violet into the rider's quadrant against Violet's aspirations underscores the clash between familial duty and military necessity.
General Sorrengail's authoritative presence is keenly felt when she confronts Xaden Riorson, a potential threat due to his familial history with the rebels. This decision highlights her commitment to national security even at the expense of her daughter's desires. The tension between her military role and maternal instincts is further emphasized by her past decisions including the execution of Fen Riorson, Xaden's father.
General Sorrengail's character remains shrouded in mystery, leaving readers questioning the motivations and complexities that drive her decisions in the intricate web of political and familial dynamics.
Mira
Mira Sorrengail is the older sister of the protagonist. She emerges as a fiercely protective and emotionally invested character. Mira's initial objection to Violet's conscription into the rider's quadrant stems not only from a concern for her sister's frailty but also from a deep-seated fear for Violet's safety. Her vehement protests against their mother, General Sorrengail, showcase Mira's devotion to Violet's well-being, marking her as a compassionate and caring sibling.
Mira's character is defined by a sense of responsibility that extends beyond familial ties, evident in her efforts to equip Violet for the challenges ahead. The tragic loss of their older brother Brennan who was part of the rider's quadrant, adds a layer of grief to Mira's character, shaping her protective instincts.
Brennan
As Violet's older brother, Brennan is introduced as a rider in the same quadrant that Violet reluctantly joins. His untimely death, a consequence of his participation in the military and the rider's quadrant, looms over the Sorrengail family, casting a shadow of grief and shaping the familial dynamics.
The sorrow surrounding Brennan's demise serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers associated with the dragon-riding profession. The journal he left behind becomes a poignant artifact, providing insights into his experiences and serving as a source of inspiration for Violet.
Xaden
As the son of Fen Riorson, a rebel leader executed by General Sorrengail, Xaden carries the weight of his father's legacy and the stigma attached to his family name. His initial confrontation with Violet reflects a deep-seated animosity rooted in the history of their families as General Sorrengail was responsible for Fen's execution. Xaden's scars, physical manifestations of responsibility for the children of rebels, reveal a layer of internal conflict and pain.
Despite this, he exhibits protective instincts towards Violet, enforcing measures to safeguard her against potential threats. Xaden's role as a wing leader and his alliance with gryphon riders add layers of complexity to his character, blurring the lines between loyalty to Navarre and allegiance to a cause greater than the nation's ongoing conflicts. The evolving dynamics between Xaden and Violet, from confrontation to romance further enrich his character.
Dain
Dain Aetos is Violet's childhood best friend and a second-year rider at Basgiath War College. His genuine care for Violet is evident as he expresses worry over her safety and attempts to dissuade her from joining the rider's quadrant due to her frail condition.
Despite their deep connection and the hints of a potential romantic relationship in the past, Dain's role becomes more complex when Xaden insists that Dain's squad switch with his, leading them to join Fourth Wing. This shift complicates their dynamic as Dain finds himself caught between his loyalty to Violet and the obligations of his new squad.
Dain's ability to read recent memories through touch adds an intriguing layer to his character, sparking tensions when he questions Violet's involvement in the attack against her.
Rhiannon
Rhiannon, a fellow candidate in the rider's quadrant at Basgiath War College emerges as a promising fighter and a loyal friend to Violet Sorrengail. Her character is defined by a balance of combat prowess and a willingness to form alliances. When Violet notices the inadequacy of Rhiannon's shoes for the parapet's slick conditions, Rhiannon becomes a recipient of Violet's selfless gesture as they swap one shoe each, showcasing Rhiannon's readiness to accept help and form connections.
Rhiannon's decision to team up with Violet for skill exchange with Rhiannon teaching Violet combat techniques while Violet imparts historical knowledge, reflects her collaborative and supportive nature.
Tairn
Tairn, the black dragon that bonds with Violet Sorrengail during the Threshing is a character characterized by his protectiveness, unique abilities, and a deep connection with Violet. Tairn's significance is evident when he chooses to bond with Violet, defying the expectations of the Threshing. Unlike other dragons, Tairn goes beyond the norm by accommodating Violet's frailty, a rare consideration that sets him apart.
His role extends beyond the physical realm as he grants Violet the ability to stop time, an extraordinary power that proves crucial in moments of danger. Tairn's actions such as surprising Violet with a specially tailored saddle and his active involvement in training her, showcase a dragon character that goes beyond mere partnership.
Liam
Liam, a marked one and a friend of Xaden Riorson emerges as a character with a nuanced perspective on the conflict-ridden world of Basgiath War College. As a fellow marked one, Liam shares a common background with Xaden, both being children of rebels automatically enlisted into the rider's quadrant. His role extends beyond a mere association with Xaden as he becomes a protective escort for Violet Sorrengail, forging a friendship that evolves throughout the narrative.
Liam's revelations about the existence of 107 marked ones, all children of rebels, provide insight into the broader societal implications of the ongoing conflicts within Navarre. Additionally, Liam's collaboration with Violet in the Archives to uncover information about a mysterious attack raises questions about the selective dissemination of information and the potential manipulation of narratives within the military structure.
Amber Mavis
Amber Mavis, the wing leader of Third Wing is portrayed as a figure of authority and consequence within the narrative. When Violet Sorrengail inadvertently reveals that Amber was involved in the forbidden gathering of marked ones, she faces severe repercussions that underscore the strict discipline enforced at Basgiath War College.
Amber's insistence on punishing Violet reflects her commitment to upholding the rules and regulations, highlighting the stringent military environment. However, her execution by the dragons for her transgressions introduces a layer of harsh reality, emphasizing the unforgiving consequences within the militarized society of Navarre.
