Stolen Hearts

The sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of crimson and gold as Aria and her diminished group trudged onward. The weight of Ereth's death hung heavy on their hearts, each step a reminder of their dwindling numbers and fading hope.

As they moved through the fields, the tall grass whispered secrets of danger with each gust of wind. Aria's eyes darted from shadow to shadow, her nerves frayed from years of constant vigilance. The sun beat down mercilessly, and sweat trickled down her back, her once-fine clothe...

Princess Aria ran through the woods alone, feet cut from the rough ground and muscles aching. Tears streamed down her face and terror pounded in her heart.