The clearing appeared just past midday.
Small. Sheltered on three sides by a rise in the land that hid them from the road. A thin stream cut through the eastern edge, its water running clear over smooth stones.
Tess raised her hand.
The group stopped without question.
No one spoke as they dismounted. The horses stood with their heads low, sides heaving, foam crusting along their necks and chests. They'd been pushed hard. Too hard.
Adan moved to the nearest mount first, running his hand along its flank before leading it toward the stream. The others followed, their movements slow and mechanical.
Ennu guided her horse carefully, Gabriel's weight still slumped against her back. She felt Adan's hands on her waist as he steadied her, then reached up to take Gabriel from her.
"Slowly," Mera said, already moving closer.
