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.
"Good," I murmured.
I needed a moment to think.
Class A and B weren't giving up.
