18. Sorin: The Wyvern Race

On the morning before the first trial, Sorin studies a vial of Magnes’s Elixir, debating its safety and His motives. She finally drinks half, feeling a warm, focused euphoria that sharpens her magic and dissolves her fear. Determined to be seen, she confirms her entry of Jaculus into the wyvern race that opens the day’s events.

At the amphitheater, festive crowds gather despite the Citadel’s recent mourning. Sorin tends Jaculus, apologizing for her neglect during relentless training. She exchanges barbs with Willem Ansel and Rahela about their better-bred wyverns while wagers fly, and the Wyvernmaster inspects the racers for tampering. Trusting Magnes’s assurance the Elixir won’t be detected, Sorin focuses on the start.

With the signal, over a hundred wyverns surge skyward. Sorin rides a mix of exhilaration and anxiety as the flock disappears toward the coastal cotes and then returns for final laps. Amid collisions and withdrawals, Jaculus’s small size becomes an advantage; he weaves through the pack to contend near the front before the finish.

After verification, the results place Jaculus fourth, behind professionally raced wyverns. Sorin basks in pride as Jaculus keens above her and then settles on her shoulder. On the podium, Sorin spots Magnes in full priest regalia; He acknowledges her with a sardonic clap, easing her fear of reprisal for stepping into view. The spectacle ends, and the weight of the true contest returns as Sorin’s magic thrums in anticipation of the first trial.