Morning came slowly over Ravenspire.
A gray mist rolled in from the sea and wrapped itself around the tall stone towers of the city. From the cliffs outside the Raven Guild compound, waves crashed against the rocks with a dull rhythm that echoed through the quiet streets.
Inside the guild hall, the main chamber was already awake.
Darius stood near the long wooden table in the center of the room, studying a map of the city spread across its surface. Small metal markers had been placed around the docks, the gates, and the outer streets.
Varic stood beside him with his arms folded.
"More scouts returned before sunrise," Varic said.
Darius did not look up.
"And?"
Varic pointed at the map.
"Movement along the northern road. Not merchants. Too organized."
Darius sighed quietly.
"So they are coming."
Kael leaned against one of the stone pillars nearby, sharpening his blade slowly with a small whetstone. The scraping sound echoed softly through the hall.
