Page 127 - Fourth Wing

dragon, which is in service—”

“General Melgren’s,” Sawyer says. His book is closed in front of him, but
I can’t blame him. I’d hardly be taking notes, either, if this was the second

time I’d gone through this class. “Codagh, right?”

“Yes.” Professor Kaori nods. “The eldest of their den and a swordtail.”
“But just for curiosity’s sake.” Jack’s glacial-blue gaze doesn’t stray from

the illusion of the unbonded black dragon still being projected. “What

signet ability would this guy gift his rider?”
Professor Kaori closes his fist, and the illusion disappears. “There’s no

telling. Signets are the result of the unique chemistry between rider and

dragon and usually say more about the rider than the dragon. The stronger
the bond and the more powerful the dragon, the stronger the signet.”

“Fine. What was his previous rider’s?” Jack asks.
“Naolin’s signet was siphoning.” Professor Kaori’s shoulders fall. “He

could absorb power from various sources, other dragons, other riders, and

then use it or redistribute it.”
“Badass.” Ridoc’s tone has more than a little hero worship.

“He was,” Professor Kaori agrees.
“What kills someone with that kind of signet?” Jack asks, crossing his

arms over his thick chest.

Professor Kaori glances at me for a heartbeat before looking away. “He
attempted to use that power to revive a fallen rider—which didn’t work,

because there’s no signet capable of resurrection—and depleted himself in

the process. To use a phrase you’ll become accustomed to after Threshing,
he burned out and died next to that rider.”

Something in my chest shifts, a feeling that I can’t explain and yet can’t

shake.
The bells ring, signaling the hour is up, and we all begin to gather our

things. The squads filter out to the hallway, emptying the room, and I rise
from behind my desk, shouldering my satchel as Rhiannon waits for me by