Rescue Failed?

Aiden moved swiftly through the dense forest, his senses heightened and every instinct on high alert. The trees and underbrush blurred past him, but his focus was unwavering. The glowing arrow continued to guide him, its light cutting through the shadows of the forest, urging him onward.

As he pushed forward, his mind raced with possibilities. Professor Elena was one of the strongest mages he knew—if she was in danger, it meant whoever she was facing was a serious threat. A cold knot of worry formed in his chest, tightening with every step.

Finally, he reached a clearing, the arrow fading as he stepped into it. The scene before him made his blood run cold.

Professor Elena stood at the center of the clearing, her back to a student who was cowering behind her. Surrounding them was a group of dark-robed figures, their sinister aura unmistakable. The symbols on their robes matched those Aiden had seen earlier—the Reaper Guild.