Page 88 of Wings of Ash & Flame
“Test altitude control,” he advised. “Ascend and descend in measured movements. It’s crucial for navigating terrain and avoiding obstacles—a component of your next trial.”
Solflara ascended steadily, the academy shrinking below. Magic shielded Alaire’s eyes from the wind as they climbed into cooler, thinner air. The grounds stretched beneath her like a painted map. Leaning back, she signaled for descent, and Solflara glided down in a smooth arc.
When they landed, Alaire’s body tingled, her heart still racing.
“Well done,” Professor Ross said. “Impressive control—for Solflara’s chosen bonded, I’d expect nothing less.”
Solflara stood taller at the compliment. “Perhaps I will not burn his old-fashioned attire after all.”
“Suck-up.”
“Hard to argue with impeccable judgment.”
Nearby, Kole executed a dramatic spiral with his owl, landing with a flourish before shooting Alaire a smug look. Overcompensating for something, she’d bet money on it.
“Alright, everyone,” Ross called. “Let’s review evasive maneuvers—rolls and dives. They’re just as important as offensive tactics, essential for avoiding attacks or obstacles during flight. Your number one priority should always be protecting your creature.”
Alaire’s stomach flipped.
“Barrel roll first,” he instructed.
Once airborne, Alaire took a deep breath and tucked close to Solflara’s side.
“Hang on tight.”
Not to be outdone, Solflara rolled through the air—once, twice, three times—until Alaire squeezed her eyes shut, waiting for the world to level out.
“Did you not hear the singular‘barrel roll’?”
“Did you not hear him say he expects nothing less from my bonded?Everyone will expect more because of who you are,Alaire.Beginner tricks won’t keep you alive.”
“Fine,you have a point.But can I at least have one day to learn to walk before you make me run?”
“This is about as slow as you’re getting.”
“That’s exactly what worries me.”
After a few more rolls, Solflara decided it was time for dives.
She flew them to an obstacle course that had likely been set up for the vets in the Aeriel Coliseum.
Alaire craned her head to see if anyone was there.
“Don’t worry—your lover boy isn’t here.It’s empty.”
She almost choked. “He isnotmy lover boy.I swear you’re just as bad as Kaia.”
“She at least has some sense.I like her.”
“Well,right now,I don’t like either of you.”
Solflara’s shoulder lifted. “Doesn’t bother me in the slightest.”
Hoops and barriers lay across the arena in a pattern that looked more like a death trap than a training course.
Shaking her head vehemently, Alaire said, “We arenotready for this.”
“Yes.We.Are.Do you trust me?”
