Chapter 60 - Burdens of the Princess

Following their failed attempt to save Ramin, Aryana and her sisters rode hard into the dark hills, leaving Valtheon far behind. Like a dense fog, the weight of their failure weighed over them. Lycoria was stiffly sagging in the saddle, her head drooping, her body hunching. With concern in her eyes, Aryana turned to look back, “Lycoria!" She yelled above the hoof roar. "Quick, grab her!” Without thinking, Nythara brought her horse to a stop, got off, and dashed over to her sister's horse. She put her arms over Lycoria's lifeless body and climbed into her saddle. "Hold on, sister," Nythara said in a terrified whisper, “We’re almost home” Pushing their horses through the difficult terrain, they began their desperate trek in hopes of returning to their hidden cave tucked away in the mountains. The sisters had always found refuge in the cave, where they could rest, reassemble, and regain their strength. Now, though, it felt as though each hoofbeat extended the distance. Lycori