The unit travels to Salem Town for an annual witch celebration, but an unexpected disturbance throws the proceedings into chaos. Tally wonders if she made the right choice to embark on a military career when witch-hate and her own mother stand in her way. Smarting from Alder’s denial of her request to switch units, Abigail attempts to bury the hatchet with Raelle. Raelle grows closer to Scylla, while the unit impresses Anacostia in Windstrike training.

The unit travels off base for the high society wedding of Abigail’s cousin. Raelle throws herself into her relationship with Scylla, who, unbeknownst to Raelle, faces an impossible choice. Abigail becomes disillusioned with her privilege while amongst the notable Bellweather line. And Tally gets hit with two life-altering revelations that change the very fabric of the unit.

The witches’ training culminates at City Drop, their final training exercise. Devastating secrets come to light, splintering the unit and forcing Tally to question her blind trust. A looming Spree threat changes the course of the cadets’ lives.