The forest just beyond the dormitory grounds was cloaked in twilight, shadows weaving between trunks, and wind stirring the leaves like whispered secrets. Dinah’s retreating figure had vanished into the darkness minutes ago, but the echo of her departure still hung heavy in the air.
Kael emerged from the tree line, resolute, armor glinting faintly in the fading light. His jaw was rigid; his eyes burning with command. Behind him marched Smith, flanked by a cadre of loyal warriors—strong, alert, ready.
“Spread out,” Kael ordered in a low, firm tone. “We find her tonight. No casualties.”
Smith nodded. “Understood.”
The warriors fanned out into the wood, torches lit, the hunt begun. Kael went one direction; Smith led another team deeper into the underbrush. Teresa stayed behind, watching
