After several hours on the road, their journey finally came to a halt as they reached the open fields where they would rest for the night.
The sun dipped low along the western horizon, its fading light casting a warm orange glow across the vast landscape.
"We'll make camp here and move again at dawn," Kyren instructed as the men began to gather at a suitable spot.
He dismounted first, then turned to assist Anna. As the princess's feet touched the ground, her legs wavered beneath her, and she nearly collapsed. Kyren caught her at once, his arm firm around her waist.
"Are you all right?" he asked, his voice edged with concern.
Mindful of her condition, the grand duke had already ordered a slower, more measured pace for the journey. Even so, the day's travel had taken its toll on her.
"I'm fine," Anna replied, masking the sharp ache that coursed through her muscles.
Her back and thighs throbbed with every movement, but she forced herself to endure it.
