Chapter 432

The members of the Blade Squad felt their eyes well up with tears, a mix of worry, anguish, and sorrow churning in their hearts. Even Zack stood frozen, staring blankly in the direction of the explosion, his mind completely numb. Before they left, Aiden had told them, "No matter what happens, don’t look back. Get Elder Garcia and Professor Forrest out of Long Rainbow Forest." He had said it, and he had done it—drawing all the enemies toward himself, alone. Their only task was to run forward, to safety, without turning back. Aiden was always like this. Every mission the Blade Squad undertook seemed fraught with peril, but few knew that Aiden had already shouldered the most dangerous parts alone. In the past, they had always trusted their captain, believing that no matter how dire the situation, he would survive and complete the mission. But now, an overwhelming sense of dread gripped them all. No matter how strong Aiden was, he was still human—flesh and blood. He could tire; he could ge