Lord of crows

The break of day painted the town in cold hues. People shoveled snow from their doorsteps, while others heated water to stave off the chill.

Within the manor where the six travelers—Elley, Melovine, Prince Ivive, Mizak, Kiera, and Teri—resided, everyone remained indoors. In Teri's bedchamber, he sat cross-legged, eyes closed, hands resting on his lap. But today, something was different: there were no threads on his fingers.

Selina materialized beside him. "Are you ready?" she asked.

Teri's lips curved into a smile. "Of course," he replied, opening his eyes and rising from the bed. His black attire consisted of a long-sleeved shirt beneath a flowing robe.

As he opened the door, he was met with an unexpected sight: Melovine, Elley, Mizak, and Prince Ivive stood waiting. Fully dressed, weapons at their sides, they anticipated Teri's words.