Page 183 - Fourth Wing

Averaging twenty-five feet tall, they’re in a formation of their own, lined

up several feet back from the path—close enough to pass judgment on us as
we walk by.

“Let’s go, Second Squad, you’re up next,” Garrick says, beckoning us

with a wave that makes the rebellion relic on his bared forearm gleam.
Dain and the other squad leaders stayed behind. I’m not sure if he’ll be

thrilled I made it up the Gauntlet or disappointed that I bent the rules. But

I’ve never felt more thrilled.
“Into formation,” Garrick orders, his tone all business, which doesn’t

surprise me given that his leadership style is more mission first, niceties

last. Go figure he seems to be so close to Xaden. Unlike Xaden, though, the
right side of his uniform has a neat line of patches proclaiming him Flame’s

section leader as well as more than five patches advertising his skill with a
multitude of weapons.

We comply, and Rhiannon and I end up near the back this time.

There’s a sound like rushing wind in the distance that stops as quickly as
it starts, and I know someone else has been found lacking.

Garrick’s hazel eyes skim over us. “Hopefully Aetos has done his job, so
you know that it’s a straight walk down the meadow. I’d recommend

staying at least seven feet apart—”

“In case one of us gets torched,” Ridoc mutters from ahead.
“Correct, Ridoc. Cluster if you want, just know if a dragon finds disfavor

with one of you, it’s likely to burn the whole lot to weed one out,” Garrick

warns, holding our gazes for a beat. “Also, remember you’re not here to
approach them, and if you do, you won’t be making it back to the dormitory

tonight.”

“Can I ask a question?” Luca says from the front row.
Garrick nods, but the ticking of his jaw says he’s annoyed. I can’t blame

him. Luca annoys the shit out of me, too. It’s her constant need to tear
everyone down that makes most of us keep our distance.