"And if we encounter something we can't handle?" Lucas asked.
"Then we will retreat to camp, regroup, and then decide whether to engage with full numbers or avoid the area entirely," Damion said. "Pride isn't worth getting extracted and failing."
Before Lucas could respond, a commotion near the front of the students drew their attention. A group of students had gathered around someone.
Professor Hendricks appeared on the path leading into the forest, his voice amplified by magic. "Students! Form a line and receive your equipment!"
The crowd organized itself into a rough queue. As each student reached the front, they were handed an emergency talisman, which was a small crystal disc attached to a cord and a navigation crystal that glowed faintly with internal light.
When it was Lucas's turn, Hendricks looked him over and said. "Remember, Mr. Estellan. Survival first. Don't do anything foolish."
"I'll do my best, Professor," Lucas replied, accepting the equipment.
