“Professor Dano is an esteemed educator at our institution,” Professor Werrin said, leveling a glare at Jyx. “You are honored to have him as your teacher. In fact, he requested you two. Or, specifically, her.” She switched her gaze to Mina, softening it slightly.

“Me?” Mina squeaked.

“He observed your interest in the library when you arrived,” Professor Werrin explained. “Professor Dano is one of our premier historians.”

“But . . . but I want to learn how to spark!” Jyx sputtered. “And fly! I’m ready for more than just books!”

“Your beasts are not,” Professor Werrin snapped. “Neither of them. Yours may be larger, Jyx, but Chauda’s wings are still developing. Until your beasts have grown strong enough, you will learn what Professor Dano chooses to teach you. When they are ready, and not before, you will begin your practical training. All students here at Mytris follow the same curriculum: lectures first from a qualified professor, then ‘sparking and flying,’ as you put it, supplemented with textbook assignments from your flying instructor.” She fixed her gaze on each of them. “I expect you to work hard and obey Professor Dano’s commands. You will be judged both on effort and achievement. Succeed, and you will earn yourself a worthy future, as well as the pride and gratitude of your family and all Alorria.” She then swept off the field, back inside the school, leaving them with Professor Dano.

Jyx was muttering under her breath. “Can’t believe this. Professor Dino. My parents said he’s the worst, droning on and on. We aren’t going to learn anything useful from him.”

Mina wanted to apologize—​Jyx sounded so dismayed—​but she couldn’t help smiling instead. Their professor loved books! And, so far at least, he seemed nearly as quiet as Mina. Maybe there’s a way for me to fit in here after all.

Pixit glowed beside her, happy that she was happy.

Until their beasts’ wings grew stronger, Professor Dano informed them, they’d be learning storm-beast history. Jyx groaned at that, but Mina was thrilled.

Pixit was excited too. «Story time!»

He’d spent two years listening to Mina read to him. I love that you loved that as much as I did, she thought at him. He licked her cheek.

Waddling through the school, the professor led them to a windowless classroom and handed each of them a textbook. Mina flipped through hers eagerly. This was great! When it was time to spark and fly, they’d know exactly what to do.

“This is ridiculous,” Jyx grumbled, ignoring her book. “We should be out there learning to spark right now.”

Poring over a chart that detailed different storm-beast powers, Mina didn’t reply.

Professor Dano took his position at the front of the classroom. “Your job is to listen and learn, not criticize.” And so he began:

“The history of Alorria.”