Drake stared at the raven, a slow grin spreading across his face. "A talking raven, huh? And a wise one, apparently. You wouldn't happen to know any good knock-knock jokes, would you?"
Corvus tilted his head, his glowing eyes fixed on Drake. "I am Corvus," he said, his voice deep and resonant. "I have witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the birth and death of stars. I have little time for frivolous jests."
"Oh, come on," Drake chuckled. "Every good story needs a bit of levity. Besides, after dealing with a fire-breathing wolf and a bunch of ghostly whiners, I could use a laugh." He gestured towards the oak. "These guys are real downers. You'd think being dead would give them a new perspective, but nope. Still moping."
Corvus ruffled his feathers, a hint of annoyance in his voice. "These spirits are bound by a powerful curse. Their suffering is not a matter for jest."
"Alright, alright, touchy subject," Drake said, holding up his hands in mock surrender. "But seriously, a talking raven? That's pretty cool. You wouldn't happen to have a sidekick named Edgar, would you?" He winked.
Corvus remained silent for a moment, his gaze unwavering. Then, he let out a dry, almost croaking laugh. "You possess a… unique perspective, young one. I can see why the Gods find you so… troublesome."
"Troublesome? I prefer 'entertaining,'" Drake retorted. "So, about this assistance you mentioned… you know how to break this seal?" He gestured towards the oak again.
"I possess the knowledge," Corvus replied. "But knowledge is not freely given. I require a service in return."
"Of course you do," Drake muttered. "There's always a catch."
"I require a lost artifact," Corvus continued. "The Sunstone. It was stolen from my nest many years ago by a band of goblins. It is said to hold immense power."
Notification: "Quest Objective Updated: Retrieve the Sunstone from the Goblin tribe."
"Goblins, huh? Any idea where I can find these sticky-fingered fellows?" Drake asked.
"They dwell in the Whispering Caves, to the east of this forest," Corvus replied. "A dangerous place, even for one with your… unusual abilities."
"Dangerous, you say? Sounds like my kind of party," Drake grinned. "So, I get this Sunstone for you, and you help these ghostly guys move on? Seems like a fair trade."
Corvus nodded. "Indeed. Return with the Sunstone, and I shall share my knowledge of ancient seals."
"Alright then," Drake said, turning to leave the clearing. "Consider it done, Mr. Raven. Or should I call you Corvus? Or maybe… Poe?" He chuckled to himself as he headed back into the forest, leaving the ancient raven perched on the oak, shaking his head in what seemed like a mixture of exasperation and amusement.