From the crowd of gathered cloaks, one also donned in shimmering emerald got to her feet. Gavin’s faint grin faded the second she came into focus and flicked her hood backwards. She was special in this family. Arayia stared at her superior with dark brows knit into a deep glare.

“Father,” she acknowledged.

“Daughter,” he rumbled in response. But, if she was only a recent graduate to her higher rank, daughter was not the response required. Sister would be the correct name.

“The time for old feuds to be rekindled shall be later. For now, I believe we have a few other, more important things to settle.” From beneath his golden cloak, the eldest brother cast a warm blue gaze to his long-time friend. Gavin returned that look with a respectful nod. Huffing angrily, Arayia took a seat once more next to two other fledglings, one clad in bright ruby, the other a shiny silver. The trio muttered quietly among themselves as Massimo’s voice boomed once more.

“I believe it is now time the proper ranks are given.”