Ileus wrapped his arms around her belly and stroked it lightly. "We will stop for lunch soon."
Anastasia relaxed in his arms. No one showed her that kind care. Only Nyles did, but her hands were tied. She could only do as much as she was allowed.
When they had crested the hill, the wind slapped them and the sweet little snowflakes, which fluttered to the ground, had turned into icy needles that stabbed at their faces. The descent that took them down the valley was just as steep as the ascent.
Anastasia said, "Sgiath Biò is such a brutal place."
"You have no idea."
She stayed quiet. She had heard about how her mother had met her father and crossed Sgiath Biò to be with him. As they descended, Ileus shifted her to a more stable position in his arms. The horses continued down the steep slope. "We will be stopping when we reach the valley's floor."
"What other hazards do you think we are going to see?"
"It's best not to think about it princess," he replied with unease.
