I was just coming from the girls' dorm, hands in my pockets, my steps slow and heavy.
I had asked the girls hanging around the entrance if Raven was inside.
They shook their heads. "No, she hasn't been back since she left for her club activity."
That hit me like a cold slap. I'd promised her I'd meet her at the shop. And I didn't.
I sighed, rubbing my forehead as I made my way down the dim stone corridor of the academy's east wing.
I'd been too caught up. Testing the black slime's properties, unlocking its potential—its healing abilities, armor capabilities, how it could morph into a weapon on command.
It was exhilarating. I'd been so eager to show her all the cool things it could do.
But now… now that excitement had died out.
I'd tried connecting to her telepathically—three times now. And each time… nothing.
Not even static. Just emptiness. It was like her presence had been wiped clean off the map.
