There was one drake that stood out eventually; one that seemed fixed on leading Temeraire on a merry chase through the ranks. His head was a bit too far gone to adrenaline to really notice the arrows and flames that raked his sides; slivers, annoyances...that would soon build up.

When the drake darted to the right, the dragon lashed to follow it like a snake, closing the distance sharply until the drake crashed into his chest broadside instead of making a proper pass.