Aafreen's voice rang out with authority, her gaze sweeping over the assembled students.
"Listen carefully. Your task is simple—scout the area. If you encounter a lone beast that you're confident you can handle, eliminate it. If you see a group or a powerful creature, retreat immediately and report to your team leader, Seenu, or directly to me. Understood?"
The students nodded in unison, their faces growing serious.
"You can work solo or in small groups. The choice is yours. But remember—your lives are the priority. Think before you act. Observe your surroundings. Plan your approach. Then act. Do not be reckless. Now... disperse!"
The group began splitting off, forming small teams.
Aamir stretched, cracking his knuckles with a grin. "Alright, who's with me? Raj, Kunal, Riya, Meera—let's stick together."
Raj gave a thumbs-up. "Of course."
Kunal smirked. "Wouldn't miss it."
Riya, the group's magic user, adjusted the faintly glowing crystal embedded in her staff. "I'm ready."
