The message arrived at dawn, carried by a raven with eyes that glowed like embers.
Ethan was in the Nexus chamber, his consciousness touching the edges of the world, when the raven landed on the windowsill. It was not a natural bird—its feathers were too dark, its movements too deliberate. It was a messenger, sent by someone who understood the ancient ways.
"A raven," Ava said, her voice filled with unease. "I haven't seen one of those since the Order fell."
Ethan approached the bird, his hand extended. The raven tilted its head, studying him with intelligent eyes. Then it opened its beak and spoke—not with a bird's voice, but with the voice of a woman, ancient and cold.
"Son of Light, I have been watching you. The shadows are stirring, and I have seen what is coming. Come to the Templ
