Chapter 8

Raven sat lost in thought by the large fireplace in the library, the only place that had coziness and atmosphere. He had removed all his things from the Stationsstreet. He had heard how glad everyone was that Maddie had returned healthy when he had reached the top of the stairs.

But he too had heard the doubts and fears that had gone over the table about him and his vague magic. He knew he had done the best he could do. Getting away from the people he loved most, leaving them alone so that there was no disagreement between them. Maddie would get enough support from the people around her, who were also dear to him.

It was better for her to live without that pressure that gave his magic in a community.

Raven tried to ignore the deep feeling of pain that told him how much he longed for Maddie, how much he was connected to her.

It would surely improve in the long run. All he had to do was wait. Sing it out as long.

Raven stared into the fire.

He