Darenn's boots pressed quietly into the soil as he crossed from the northern side of the academy grounds into the west. His nightly rounds were meticulous, measured steps, sharp eyes, and an ear attuned to the whispers of the earth.
The forest always hummed differently at night, and tonight it carried the weight of secrets.
He found Irving waiting beneath one of the large stone arches, lantern light flickering against his sharp features. The older professor glanced up as Darenn approached, raising a brow.
"You're late," Irving said.
Darenn shook his head. "Kalista."
That earned Irving's full attention. His voice dropped. "You saw her?"
Darenn didn't waste time. From his pocket, he withdrew the necklace, the pendant glinting faintly under the moonlight. The engraved "L" seemed to gleam as if daring to be noticed.
