There was no trouble as the students approached the portal. Dame was once again keeping a watchful eye on Bronto, just in case the man tried anything. Now it was time for all of them to return—to leave the nightmare behind.
None of them could have expected the assessments to spiral into this. What began as a simple selection process for the Cultural Exchange had turned into a battle for survival. Most had completely forgotten that this was even part of a competition. At this point, they were just grateful to be alive.
And yet, they all now carried a burden—a heavy secret about the events that had taken place.
"We'll head in first," Luka said. "Panla will take up the rear and make sure everyone makes it through."
"Are you sure?" Liam asked, stepping forward. "The Guild is going to expect Bronto and the others to come back. As soon as they see you're fine, they'll realize something's wrong and attack. I doubt they were ever planning on sparing the teachers."
