Chapter 4 The Ambush

*Chapter 4: The Ambush*

Aria's heart was racing as Professor Orion drew their wand. The forest was quiet, except for the sound of crickets and the distant hooting of an owl. But Aria could sense that something was off.

Suddenly, a group of shadowy figures emerged from the trees. They were tall and gaunt, with eyes that glowed like embers.

"Shadowborn," Professor Orion muttered, their voice dripping with disgust. "They're servants of the Shadow Syndicate."

The Shadowborn moved closer, their eyes fixed on Aria. She could feel their malevolent intent, and her skin crawled with fear.

Professor Orion raised their wand, casting a protective spell around Aria. The Shadowborn hissed, recoiling from the light.

"We need to get out of here, now," Professor Orion said, grabbing Aria's hand.

They made a run for the carriage, but the Shadowborn were too quick. They surrounded the vehicle, their eyes blazing with an otherworldly energy.

Aria felt a surge of fear, but Professor Orion stood tall, their wand flashing in the moonlight. The Shadowborn were relentless, but Professor Orion held them off, casting spell after spell to keep them at bay.

Just when it seemed like the Shadowborn were about to overpower Professor Orion, a loud roar echoed through the forest. A magnificent dragon emerged from the trees, its scales glinting in the moonlight.

The Shadowborn fled in terror, disappearing into the shadows. Professor Orion breathed a sigh of relief, their eyes locked on the dragon.

"Thank you, old friend," they said, smiling.

The dragon nodded its great head, its eyes shining with intelligence.

Aria stared in awe, feeling a sense of wonder. She had never seen a dragon up close before.

"Who is this?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Professor Orion smiled. "This is Thunder, a noble dragon and a loyal ally. He's been watching over us from the shadows."

Thunder nodded again, his eyes locked on Aria.

Aria felt a sense of connection to the dragon, as if they shared a secret understanding.