Byung was travelling with Kraghul's sisters, the rhythmic motion of the horse beneath him and Mazga's solid warmth in front providing strange comfort despite the uncertainty of his situation. They had covered considerable ground since departing the clearing where they'd first encountered each other, moving west at a pace that ate up miles while remaining sustainable for the horses. But eventually, practical necessity forced them to acknowledge what couldn't be ignored: night had fallen completely, transforming their surroundings into a landscape of shadows and uncertain footing that made continued travel dangerous even for experienced riders.
