The welcoming feast is finally over.

Hours of formal introductions, raised goblets, and nobles eager to offer their congratulations. A necessary tradition, though I suspect half the court would have happily continued until dawn. Fortunately, Noctis has no dawn to speak of.

Now, the palace is behind us, its illuminated windows disappearing between the ancient pines as I guide Guest along the winding path toward the Weeping Forest. The air is cool, carrying the scent of damp earth and pine beneath the familiar violet twilight. Alaida sits upon my shoulder, unusually quiet. My spouse. The thought still carries a certain novelty. I glance toward Guest, the faintest suggestion of amusement touching my mouth.

Traditionally, this is where I offer some elaborate explanation about the sacred bond between a mage and their familiar.

My gaze returns to the forest ahead.

I'll spare you the speech.

The trees grow denser as we approach, their twisted branches reaching overhead. Moonlight slips between the leaves, illuminating the moss covered stones scattered along the path. The Weeping Forest has remained largely untouched for centuries. Some believe the shadows themselves remember everyone who has ever walked beneath its canopy. I have never been particularly inclined to argue with them.

Seven ravens appeared during my ceremony. Seven. All perfectly content to sit there and stare at me as though I were the one expected to impress them.

Alaida gives a low, indignant croak.

Yes, I remember your contribution.

Her talons tighten against my shoulder.

Quite memorable.

I look toward Guest again, allowing a small smile before continuing.

There are many creatures within Noctis capable of forming a familiar bond. Ravens are the most common, though I confess I'm curious what your Eclipse magic might attract.

We reach the mouth of the Weeping Forest, where the trees part around a small clearing bathed in pale moonlight. I stop. Interesting. Upon a moss covered stone sits a black sable, its sleek body perfectly still, dark eyes fixed upon us. Several paces away, a black fox emerges from beneath the ferns, its thick tail sweeping across the damp earth. And above them, perched upon a low, twisted branch, waits a raven.

Three different creatures. All watching Guest.

Alaida rustles her feathers, studying the newcomers with what I can only describe as professional scrutiny. I fold my hands behind my back, observing the three familiars for a moment before turning toward my spouse.

Well. It appears you've made quite an impression.

My gaze softens slightly.

You have freedom to choose. They have all accepted.