I tore off my goggles and threw my head back into the laughing wind. Flying with sky always made me feel so alive. I found it hard to imagine that there was only my safety tether and belt and my balance that kept me in the saddle. Sometimes it felt as though there was a bubble protecting me. I used to be scared when I thought of how high up I was but now the fear had become wondering excitement. Hights had always been my biggest fear until I gained the trustbond with Sky. Now I knew I could save myself if I needed to. I had a strong hold with my thighs. Sometimes I would roll Sky until we were flying upside down just to feel the rush of adrenaline as I clung on with my legs trying not to strain against the safety belt. I felt the wind rush past me making my eyes water. I pulled my goggles back on. Suddenly, an idea popped into my head- a way to prove to myself that there was just air between Sky and the ground and what would happen if I wasn't careful. I leaned over Sky's neck and whispered
"Right Sky, now only catch me if I scream, OK? I'll be fine". I undid my safety belt and turned around to untie my safety tether. I felt a lump of fear come to my throat. Sky will catch me if he has to I told myself.
I shut my eyes and gently tugged on the reins to make Sky start a roll. He began to turn and I held my breath as I clung on desperately with my knees. Sky crooned anxiously.
"I'm fine" I told him through gritted teeth. He turned until he was vertical to the ground. I gasped. There was nothing to stop me falling now.
"Keep going, Sky" I cried.
Before I knew what was happening, I was hurtling through the air. I clamped my mouth shut to stop myself from screaming. I tried to concentrate on how eagles must feel as the wind swept through their feathers. As soon as I allowed this thought to enter my head, I felt better. Gone was the terrible fear and in its place was a rush of adrenaline. My hair flew up above me and I smiled. There was nothing touching me anywhere. I felt free. I made sure I was completely calm before looking down to check how far it was to the ground. It was rushing towards me faster than I expected so I let the feeling of an eagle spread throughout my veins and change me into one. I flapped my wings and flew up to where Sky was waiting. I hovered for a second to make sure I had judged my landing alright. Then I let myself fall as a human again into the saddle. I turned round to do up my safety tether then did up my safety belt.
"Come on Sky. Let's get back." I said and we flew as one back to the yard.