The hunting group returned to the Osborn compound shortly before nightfall. Dust from the forest still clung to their clothes, and the faint smell of beast blood followed them through the gates. The guards bowed and greeted them.
Inside the compound, the group separated quietly. Everyone went to their room for rest.
The day had been long, and though the battle with the beasts had gone smoothly, the forest always demanded focus. By the time the moon rose above the compound walls, most of the group had already fallen asleep.
Robert rested as well. But the next morning, he woke before sunrise. The compound was still quiet when he walked across the stone courtyard toward his father's study room. A faint mist hung in the air, and the distant sound of early training echoed from the outer yard.
John Osborn was already awake.
