A black snake. Larissa recognized it instantly, it was the most common beast from the random black egg, the one everyone had expected Luna to get in the first place.
Its abilities were similar to the shadow wolf's, though it lacked elemental control and its potential was limited to silver rank 3. It was a respectable beast, but not exceptional.
'Uncle Sirius's second beast,' Larissa realized as the snake deposited the envelope in Luna's hands.
The change was subtle but immediate. Luna's somber countenance seemed to lighten slightly while her fingers caressed the envelope. The snake slid back into the shadows, vanishing as if it had never been there.
Luna carefully tucked the envelope into her clothes, her movements almost reverent.
"Is everything alright?" Larissa asked softly.
Luna's cheeks tinged pink. She avoided her cousin's gaze, her eyes fixed on a distant point.
"Yes," she finally responded, her voice barely a whisper.
