Page 169 of Wings of Ash & Flame
“Welcome, fliers, to the final challenge of your first year at Aeris Academy—the Astral Odyssey,” Headmaster Carth announced from the base of the obelisk.
A ripple of unease spread through the crowd. Apprehension churned in Alaire’s stomach.How can I possibly survive this without magic?She quickly plaited her hair into a braid. The trial would be easier without loose strands in her way.
“On the eve of the Celestial Cascade Ball, vampires summoned Umbra’s wraiths to send a message to Cielore—we are not safe. Today’s trial will test your teamwork, communication, and trust—who you are, and what you’re made of. What we faced during the wraith attack is nothing compared to the demonic cunning of vampires. The fate of the realm is on the precipice of being decided. Where will you be when that happens? What will you be doing?” His eyes lingered on Alaire as though the questions were meant for her alone, before sweeping across the crowd.
“Two novices and two veterans will form a unit. Behind us lies a magical arena crafted by the houses. While this is asimulation, the dangers are real. There is no guarantee all will survive.”
Beside her, Kaia’s arm stiffened.
Professor Ross stepped forward to deliver the rest. “The arena mirrors the constellation Orion. Orion was a hunter with a deep bond to animals, much like our Celestial Familiars. Each star marks a different challenge. All sectors are interconnected, with varying terrain and hazards. Orion’s belt—the obelisk where you stand—is neutral ground. If you’re injured and can return here, you’ll be treated by a soulwarden. Use all tactics at your disposal.” He rubbed his hands together as if savoring their discomfort.
“Your veterans will announce your teams. Once assembled, step onto the platform. Good luck, novices. Ascend above the rest. Rise—or fall.”
Alaire turned to Dawson, brows raised.
“It’s you and me, with Kaia and Caius.”
Relief rushed through her—thank the gods, at least she had Kaia. The comfort lasted all of three seconds before curdling. Having Kaia with her meant something precious to lose. The memory of her friend’s injuries in their last trial twisted her stomach. And if Kaia was her partner… her gaze caught on Caius beside Dawson, and her relief soured further.
“Seriously? We have to work withhim?”
Dawson’s mouth quirked, amusement flickering in his eyes. “He’s my best friend—and one of the best fliers in House Aetheris.” He leaned closer, breath brushing her ear. “Being my partner has its perks.”
Before she could process his words, a foggy grey platform appeared before them, cut from the same stone. The four of them stepped onto the wide rectangle, which easily held their group.
The atmosphere shifted, palpable anxiety thickening the air. Some novices stood rigid with barely contained fear; others bent over with hands on their knees, staring at the ground.
“Once this starts, we find our celestials as quickly as possible,” Dawson instructed, already taking charge. Everyone nodded.
Teams of four gathered around the towering obelisk that loomed as high as Eclat Castle’s walls.
Adrenaline surged through Alaire, her heart racing.
“Solflara?”
“I’m here.”
“Get ready.”
“Already am,Firework.”
“Donot.”
“Solf for Firework.Seems fair,” the phoenix said loftily.
“Focus.”
“I am.I can multitask.A skill you might work on with the prince.”
A horn blasted, loud and final, signaling the start of the trial.
What had been a silent tableau moments before exploded into chaos. The mist covering the paths evaporated. The once-solid, starry ground fell away around them, leaving only the multicolored paths and circular neutral ground surrounding the obelisk. Everyone sprang into action—shouts filled the air, and rapid footsteps struck against the starry stone.
A familiar hand grabbed hers. “This way,” Dawson said.
Alaire reached back for Kaia, who linked her hand with Caius. Together, they formed a chain. She forced herself to stay alert. Their success in this trial depended on each other.
Stay calm. Stay alive. She repeated the words over and over.
