Stones rattled and rolled down the cavern walls, dust swirling thick around us. Suddenly a large black shape swooped fast from above, wings beating hard right over my head — I ducked with a startled cry, heart jumping into my throat. In one smooth motion it landed heavily and confidently on Draven's shoulder, sharp claws gripping his coat.
I straightened slowly, breathless and surprised. "What… what is this?"
Draven lifted one hand gently, stroking along its strong black beak. The bird let out deep, croaking sounds, lively and excited, pressing closer to him as if greeting an old master.
"It is mine," he said simply. "My raven."
I let out a long, relieved sigh and stepped nearer. But the bird turned its head, dark eyes gleaming sharp and fierce, staring straight at me with warning. I flinched back instinctively.
Draven tapped its head firmly, a little hard, and it let out a low, grumbling, disgruntled noise. "Behave," he muttered.
