Page 180 of Wings of Ash & Flame
“Anytime,Firework,” her phoenix replied with sass.
Dawson’s hand squeezed her shoulder. Alaire turned, finding strength in his grounding presence.
“You’re strong, Alaire. Don’t ever doubt that,” he said softly.
The knot in her chest loosened further.
Kaia waved them over. She and Caius stepped aside to reveal a glowing inscription carved into the rock.
Alaire read aloud:
“In Bellatrix’s Blizzard, you must find your path and journey on.
Two peaks must yield what lies upon.
Eastward shines the frostfire bright,
Westward burns the winterflame’s light.
Separate pairs, on foot you must tread, now take your quest,
Retrieve the objects and pass the test.
Unite the items, the way is clear,
Only then will the door appear.”
“We have to split into pairs,” Dawson said.
“At least we’re not tethered this time,” Alaire added, aiming for Kaia’s optimism.
“But we are forced to separate,” Kaia admitted, uneasy.
“Then Kaia and I will go together.” Alaire hooked an arm around her friend’s shoulder. Kaia squeezed back, their solidarity unshaken despite the cold.
Dawson shook his head. “Not this time.”
“Why not? This whole trial is about teamwork and communication. Kaia and I have that nailed. Don’t act like you and Caius aren’t two halves of each other’s heartbeat.” She rolled her eyes.
Being alone with Dawson was the last thing she needed.
Kaia’s fingers pressed into her bicep in reassurance.
Dawson’s mouth curved faintly, though his tone was final. “It’s cute you think you have a choice. Caius and I are veterans—we wield aether better than either of you.. As much as Caius and I could benefit from pairing up, your duo would suffer. This way, we all have a chance.”
Alaire scowled. “That is the biggest load of bullshit I’ve ever heard. ‘Your duo would suffer.’ We’re more than capable of defending ourselves, and I bet we’d beat your slow asses back here with the item from one of the twin peaks.”
Dawson clenched his jaw. “No.”
“Last time I checked, you weren’t the headmaster of Aeris Academy. Therefore, we don’t have to listen to you,” Alaire said, defiance lacing every word.
“Last time I checked, I was—as you like to remind me—the Prince of House Aetheris. Headmaster Carth serves my house. I hate to break it to you, Firework, but youdohave to listen to me.”
“I’m not one of your subjects. Your rules don’t apply to me.”
“While you’re attending the academy, they do.”
“We’ll go our way—you two go yours.” She raised her chin.
