Eyes in the sky

Absinth's eyes twinkled with a mix of amusement and pride as she gazed down at Zagan. She observed the curiosity and confusion playing across his features, the questions swirling in his mind evident in his expressive eyes. The raven, perched nearby, watched them both with an intense focus, its beady eyes glittering like dark gems. She hums as the boy comes close, leaning against her fore so comfortably.

“Listen, Zagan.” Absinth began, her voice sly and melodic, her head tilting slightly as she spoke. “Ravens are unique among creatures. They are not assigned or commanded; they choose their companions. Their friends.” She paused, allowing her words to sink in, and her eyes never left Zagan's, ensuring he grasped the importance of what she was saying.

As she spoke, Absinth's tail flicked lightly, a sign of her thoughtful consideration. “The Sultan's panther is a guardian, a protector assigned to you. It follows orders but does not understand you the way this raven does.” She explained, her tone patient and firm, her ears twitching to emphasize her point. “The raven chose you because it saw a kindred spirit in you. It will not follow you out of duty, but out of a bond it perceives with you.”

She smirked, her eyes intensifying as she continued, a gentle nudge of her muzzle against his. “You do not need to feed it or give it things to earn its loyalty. It is already loyal to you, by its own choice. Treat it with respect and trust, and it will be your eyes and ears in ways you cannot yet imagine.”

Her gaze shifted to the raven, which cawed softly in response, as if acknowledging her words. “This bond is a gift, Zagan. Cherish it, nurture it, and it will grow stronger with time. You may feed it, give it shiny things, tell it your thoughts. The raven will be there for you, not because it has to, but because it wants to. They are so intelligent. So devoted. That is why they are my favorite.”

Absinth leaned down, nuzzling him affectionately, her touch filled with warmth and reassurance. She could feel the steady rhythm of his heartbeat, a reminder of the life and potential within him.



"Absinth Artemisia Inferos"