The guild headquarters was abuzz with an unusual energy. The air was thick with tension, and the hallways echoed with hurried footsteps and urgent whispers. Guild Master Alaric stood at the heart of the turmoil, his brow furrowed as he reviewed the latest reports. His stern gaze was fixed on James, a Rank B member renowned for his formidable abilities. James was a tall, well-built man with a striking presence, his features sharp and his eyes cold. His power over both water and electricity made him a rare and dangerous asset, and Alaric had called upon him to help manage the crisis.
In this world, elemental magic was both a gift and a curse. It was said that in ancient times, some powerful individuals had mastered even three elements, a feat that had become almost legendary. Those who could control more than one element were considered exceptionally skilled, their abilities often shaping the outcome of battles and political shifts. Water and electricity, as wielded by James, were particularly feared for their potential to overwhelm and devastate.
James's orders were precise and unwavering. "Seal all the gates. No one in or out without my express permission," he commanded, his voice cutting through the chaos with an authoritative edge. His orders were swiftly obeyed, and the guild members began the meticulous process of securing every entrance and exit.
Leo, a prominent member of the guild with ice magic, was visibly frustrated. His resentment was palpable as he moved around, his icy glare following James. Leo's ego was as frosty as his magic, and he chafed under the authority of anyone he deemed less competent or less deserving of command. The guild's situation had pushed him into a position of subordination, and he loathed it.
The interrogation began, Seiki tried to identify the suspect one by one thoroghly, after around 30 minutes he concluded that non of them were that person. James showed a sinister look and said, "oh, it seems we got our culprit."
Leo while fustrated still said violently, "I had my doubts on Jack when that bastard refused to reveal his element."
Rumi calmly concluded, "only Jack did not report here, it was obviouse."
---
Isaki's anger was a smoldering flame in the dark confines of his cell. The jail was stark, with walls made from Eres, a special material known for its unique property of nullifying magic. The chains that bound him were also crafted from Eres, rendering him powerless and unable to use his wind magic. His frustration was compounded by the knowledge that his brother, Sanji, was a kind-hearted soul who had always sought to help others. The news of Jack's absence had fueled Isaki's anger, and his thoughts continuously drifted to his brother's tragic fate. He longed for justice and to clear his name, but the unbreakable chains held him captive, leaving him in despair.
Isaki's mind raced as he thought of Sanji. His brother had been a beacon of light in his life, always there to offer support and comfort. Sanji had believed in the goodness of people, a stark contrast to Isaki's growing cynicism. The irony of his brother's fate was unbearable, and Isaki was determined to find a way to escape and seek justice.
---
Meanwhile, Jack crouched in a narrow alley, his breaths shallow and quick. His mind was a whirlwind of fear and confusion. The guild's pursuit had forced him into hiding, and he was acutely aware that time was running out. The magical note on his door had made it clear that he was wanted, but Jack had been on the run before he could fully comprehend the gravity of the situation.
As Jack contemplated his next move, memories of his mother surfaced. She had always been a source of comfort and strength, tending to his wounds both physical and emotional. Whenever he faced challenges or was bullied, it was his mother's soothing words and tender care that had helped him through. Her memory was a beacon in his troubled thoughts.
The distant murmur of voices interrupted his reverie. Jack realized that staying in the city was no longer an option. With a sense of urgency, he left the alley and ventured into the surrounding forest, a place he had avoided in the past due to its inherent dangers. But now, it was his only refuge. The forest was dense and foreboding, but Jack pressed on, driven by the memories of his mother and the desperate need to evade capture.
As he delved deeper into the forest, the trees seemed to close in around him, their shadows a stark contrast to the fading light. Jack's steps were cautious but determined, each crunch of leaves beneath his feet a reminder of the peril he faced. The path ahead was uncertain, but Jack knew he had to keep moving, for the city behind him was now a cage, and the forest, despite its dangers, was his only hope for escape.