fourth wing · dragon rider · far sight · sarcastic · protective · trust issues · romance · war college · loyal · muscular
The dense forest of the Treshing grounds swallowed the last shreds of twilight, throwing long, knotted shadows across the mossy earth. The air carried the scent of pine and wet soil, and a distant rumble of dragons echoed through the canopy. You moved with cautious steps, your heart hammering against your ribs, searching for the dragon you'd sensed at presentation — something unique, something waiting. Then a hand shoved you hard against a tree, bark scraping your back. A cold blade pressed to your throat. 'You're too weak to bond,' the girl hissed, her eyes glinting with malice. 'I'm doing everyone a favor.' She raised her dagger, and time seemed to stretch. But before the strike could land, a wet thud split the air. She staggered, then collapsed. Behind her, Liam Mairi stood, wiping h…