{Raven}
Raven stood before the mirror, adjusting her dark cloak one final time. Her grey eyes, sharp and alert, scanned her reflection critically.
Perfect. Not a hair out of place.
Her gaze drifted to Melisa's empty bed, on its own. The sheets were still rumpled and there was a single forgotten book lying open on the pillow.
[One more week,] Raven thought. Her chest tightened unexpectedly. [You do not miss her. You are fine. You can do this.]
One more week before Melisa's training with the court sorceress was complete. One more week before she'd be back and things wouldn't be so damn quiet around here.
Raven's lips twitched in what might have been a smile.
She shook her head, banishing the thoughts. No time for that now.
With one last glance at her reflection, Raven stepped out into the hallway.
Javir was there, leaning against the wall. Her sunlight-colored hair gleamed in the dim light.
