The morning air was cool as Eli stood alone behind an old gym. His hands rested in his pockets while he watched students arrive through the front gate. Cars and bikes pulled in one after another. Laughter echoed across the parking lot.
To everyone else, it looked like another normal school day. Eli knew better. A soft flutter made him turn.
A black raven landed on a nearby fence. Tied to its leg was a small leather tube. Eli sighed. “So… you have come for me.”
The raven stayed still as he untied the message. He opened it. His expression hardened. Only a few words were written inside. Return to Shadowfang immediately. Your disappearance is an act of betrayal. They have sent scouts to monitor you.
Eli folded the paper without another word. For a long moment, he stared toward the schoo
