Chapter 54: A Race Against Time

By: Asa Montreaux

The world had plunged into chaos as news broke of planes crashing across North America and beyond. The images were haunting: planes spiraling out of control, desperate passengers sending frantic messages, and the eerie silence that followed when communication went dark. It was a nightmare unfolding in real-time, and the pressure on Hugh and his friends was mounting.

In the halls of The Andrews School, the atmosphere was charged with fear and urgency. Students huddled together, whispering in hushed tones as they watched the news unfold on magically enhanced screens. Every report was a new shock, each crash a reminder of the gravity of their situation.

“This is getting worse by the minute!” Mish exclaimed, pacing the floor. “We need to do something!”

Hugh felt the weight of responsibility settle heavily on his shoulders. “We have to find a way to redirect those planes,” he said, his voice steady despite the turmoil inside him. “If we can get to the control centers before the terrorists can execute their full plan, we might save lives.”

Eliza nodded, her expression determined. “But how do we even get to them? Those places are heavily guarded. We’ll need a solid strategy.”

Sam, who had been listening intently, chimed in. “What if we used our abilities to create diversions? If we can draw attention away from the control centers, we might find a way in. We have the advantage of surprise.”

Hugh considered this. “That could work, but we’ll need more than just the four of us. We’ll have to enlist the help of the older wizards and anyone else we can rally. This is bigger than just us.”

Mish's eyes lit up. “We can use the school’s network to send out a call for help. Other magical schools, alliances—anyone who can assist!”

With a plan taking shape, they quickly gathered their friends and began coordinating their efforts. They reached out to the older wizards who had been assisting them in the battle, explaining their idea to redirect the planes and stop the ultimate attack.

As they mobilized, the urgency of the situation became more apparent. The older wizards joined their ranks, creating a united front against the encroaching darkness. Hugh felt a sense of camaraderie as they worked together, channeling their powers and expertise.

The plan was set into motion: a coordinated effort to create distractions and cover while they attempted to gain access to the control centers. The air was thick with tension as they prepared to face the challenges ahead.

“We’ll need to split into teams,” one of the older wizards advised, his brow furrowed in concentration. “Some of us will focus on creating diversions, while others infiltrate the control centers. Time is of the essence.”

Hugh took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the mission. “We have to be quick and smart about this. If we don’t succeed, more lives will be lost.”

As they moved out, the atmosphere was charged with purpose. The students of The Andrews School were no longer just learners; they had become warriors in the fight against Crimson Dawn.

Mish, Eliza, Sam, and Hugh formed one of the teams assigned to create distractions at key locations. They had identified several airports that had been targeted, and their goal was to draw the attention of the operatives away from the control centers.

“Stick together and be ready for anything,” Hugh instructed, his heart racing as they made their way toward the first location.