Page 80 of A Court of Thralls and Thorns

Riven shot me a grin, though her grip on Zola’s harness was a little too tight.

“That leaves Ashe, Ferrula, and Jax to maneuver Kaelith, Narvea, and Koddos through the top. Keep in your own flying space. You must take off no more than ten seconds apart and keep your formation throughout the trial. Remember, the gorge is always in flux. If you’ve anchored your dragon, you may use your abilities to help your squad.”

Zander’s sharp gaze swept over us, pausing a fraction longer on me before he added, “Get in position.”

We moved quickly, stepping toward our assigned flight groups.

Jax winked at me as we took our place near the edge of the gorge. “Looks like you and me are sky-dancing partners.”

Ferrula was already tightening the rope at the base of Narvea’s neck. “Just keep up.”

Kaelith huffed loudly, shifting beside me.

I don’t dance,she grumbled into my mind.

I fought back a smirk.Then let’s make sure we don’t trip.

Tension thickened the air as each rider prepared, hands tightening on ropes, bodies leaning forward in anticipation.

Zander raised his arm. “Go!”

Tae’s squad launched first, their dragons diving low into the gaping black maw of the gorge.

Naia and Riven followed, their dragons streaking forward through the middle airspace.

Jax counted out loud, voice steady.

“Nine.”

Ferrula shifted forward.

“Eight.”

My pulse pounded.

“Seven.”

Kaelith flexed her wings, impatient.

“Six.”

The sky seemed to shrink as we stared down the twisting rock corridor.

“Five.”

Jax adjusted his grip on Koddos’ harness.

“Four.”

My fingers tightened around my rope, heart hammering.

“Three.”

Ferrula leaned low over Narvea’s back.

“Two.”

A single drop of sweat slid down my temple.