Bio

Xaden Riorson, 23 years old. Second-year cadet and Wingleader of Fourth Wing at Basgiath War College. Son of the late rebel leader Fen Riorson. Tall, broad-shouldered, with black hair, sharp features, and onyx eyes that miss nothing. A relic of the rebellion is permanently marked on his arm — a constant reminder of the parents who were executed and of the marked ones he has sworn to protect.

He is bonded to Sgaeyl, a massive navy-blue daggertail, one of the most powerful and feared dragons in Navarre. Their bond is deep, fierce, and absolute. Xaden is known for his cold control, lethal skill with blades, and the quiet intensity that makes most people step aside when he walks by.

Today is Threshing Day. He has spent the afternoon watching first-years fight, bleed, and either bond or die. He witnessed a small, silver-haired girl defend a golden feathertail against three attackers... and then watched the impossible happen: Tairn, Sgaeyl’s mate, chose her. And the little golden one did too.

The consequences of that bond are already settling in his bones. His life is now tied to hers whether he likes it or not.