As the footsteps grew closer, Harry and his friends quickly rolled up the scroll and tucked it away. The adrenaline surged through their veins as they prepared to make their escape.
"Back door!" Marcus instructed, gesturing toward a small flap at the rear of the tent. They slipped out into the darkness just as the guards burst in through the main entrance.
Harry felt the cool night air hit his face as they moved quickly through the shadows, weaving between the trees. The sounds of confusion and shouts from the Templars behind them pushed them to run faster.
"We can't let them catch us!" Ron yelled, glancing over his shoulder.
"Keep moving!" Marcus commanded, his voice cutting through the chaos. "Stay low!"
The group sprinted through the underbrush, their breaths coming in sharp gasps as they navigated the treacherous terrain. The moonlight illuminated their path, but the shadows remained their greatest ally.
They reached the edge of the Forbidden Forest, and just as they thought they were safe, the sound of a spell whizzing through the air shattered the night. A bolt of energy struck a nearby tree, sending splinters flying.
"Split up!" Marcus shouted. "We'll regroup at Hogwarts!"
The group dispersed, darting in different directions. Harry felt his heart racing as he navigated the forest, adrenaline coursing through him. He focused on the path ahead, pushing himself to move faster, to escape.
The sound of footsteps followed him, but he didn't look back. He had to trust in his training, in the skills he had honed over the past few months.
Suddenly, Harry stumbled upon a small clearing, and in the center stood a shimmering portal, pulsating with energy. It was a hidden exit, one that Marcus had mentioned in passing.
"I can make it," Harry whispered to himself, determination surging within him. He sprinted toward the portal, feeling its warmth envelop him as he leaped through.