Minutes after my call, I heard my colleagues’ flashlights cutting through the forest. The crackling of branches, muffled footsteps — and two more appeared beside me. I just nodded toward the clearing: “See for yourselves.”

The owl flew ahead of us, making short circles, as if guiding us. Between the trees, a strange silhouette appeared — an old, half-ruined shed, hidden among the foliage.

I stopped, leaned against a tree, and gestured for my colleagues to join. My heart raced, adrenaline surged. We cautiously approached one of the small windows. Through the dirty glass, silhouettes were visible — children sitting on the floor, watching the door anxiously.

— Damn… — one colleague sighed — looks like we found them.

The owl was still perched on a branch, occasionally hopping and making quick movements toward the shed, as if showing us the way and confirming we were in the right place.

I picked up the radio again:
— Dispatch, this is Patrol 12! Send backup immediately! Abducted children located!

Soon, more colleagues arrived, and together we cautiously entered. The shed had been a hideout for criminals holding the children.

One of the metallic bracelets on the owl’s talon matched that of one of the children — it was now clear: the bird had led us to the rescue.

I looked at the owl. It sat quietly on its branch, as if checking that everything was okay. At that moment, it was clear: the little shadow hunter on the road had been a true hero, helping uncover a serious crime.