Walking into the trap

We found Felix and Cassandra by the river, exactly where I told them to go if things went south.

Felix was pacing. Of course, he was.

"Felix," I called softly.

His head snapped up so fast I thought he'd break his neck.

"P-Professor!" His face lit up with relief. "You're okay!"

"Barely." I glanced at Cassandra. She looked calm, but her eyes flicked toward me—an unspoken question.

"Any problems?" I asked.

Felix shook his head quickly. "N-No, but I think they're still searching."

"Good." I let out a slow breath.

"Good?" Felix blinked. "How is that good?"

"Because it means they don't know where we are."

Felix blinked again, like a confused puppy. "But if they're still looking—"

"They're wasting time," I cut him off, my tone flat. "Time we can use."

"Ah."

Finally caught on.

Garrick crouched beside Cassandra, his eyes scanning the trees.

"No movement," he murmured, his voice low.