The invitation arrived at dawn, delivered by a raven made of living flame that burned a perfect circle into the cottage door.
A single card, heavy cream-colour stock, silver embossed with the Blackwood crest:
'Lady Agnetha Blackwood requests the pleasure of Mr. Reed Garrett's company for a private breakfast.
Garrett Automotive Executive Sky Lounge – 08:00 sharp
Come alone.'
Reed read it twice, then handed it to Laken. Frost bloomed across the paper the instant her fingers touched it.
“She's separating the herd," Harold growled from the doorway, wings half-spread in agitation. “Classic predator move."
Eliza took the card next, turning it to reveal a second message written in phoenix-blood ink that only appeared under moonlight:
'Bring the bridge, little architect. Or I start wit
