Disappointment rippled through him like a physical rendition of a sigh. His wings slowly withdrew, pulling back to his sides, and he forced himself to take a step back, away from the rider. He lowered his head again, looking almost chastised, if such a large creature could manage it.

"I am sorry. I got carried away with myself. Are you alright?"

He did not know who taught them to fly, or how they flew. Which meant in all likelihood he could not know how Zaid might fly, either.

For a brief moment, the sky had held hope again.