{Jade's POV}
The thundering hooves of my horse echoed through the trees as I raced deeper into the forest, the wind whipping past me like a wild spirit. My heart pounded in my chest, each beat a reminder of my brother's peril. I had told him to run during the chaos of the fight, but now, doubt gnawed at me. Had he made it? The memory of the clash—the sound of swords clanging, shouts of anger and fear—played in my mind like a haunting melody. I had thought I could protect him, but in that moment, I had to let him go.
As I rounded a bend, the trees parted slightly, revealing a small clearing bathed in dappled sunlight. I pulled the reins tight, bringing my horse to a skidding halt. The air felt different here, charged with a peculiar energy that prickled at my skin. I dismounted, sensing the strong concentration of mana swirling around me. It was almost tangible, like a whisper from the earth itself, calling me closer. I knelt, my heart racing, and scanned the ground.
