The massive extraction aircraft descended into the clearing like a mechanical dragon, its engines creating whirlwinds that scattered debris across the ruined settlement. The bay doors opened with a hydraulic hiss, revealing rows of seats and several academy medical personnel waiting with stretchers and supplies.
"All students, board for immediate transport back to Crimson Sun Academy!" an instructor's voice boomed through a speaker system. "Priority seating for injured personnel!"
The freed civilians were loaded first, medical staff rushing to provide immediate care for the most severely wounded. Several students helped carry the unconscious victims aboard, their expressions grim as they witnessed firsthand the cruelty of the dark cultivators.
Levi stood near the edge of the clearing, watching the boarding process with Luna perched on his shoulder. The little beast was exhausted, her usual energetic squeaking replaced by occasional tired chirps.
