The Ice Barrier

Aurora spent the rest of the day and into the night tending to Devrim. She wrapped him and herself in the Guardian's cloak, which magically stretched, and the pair were protected from the freezing temperatures as the stars passed overhead.

By morning Devrim had recovered enough for them to continue their journey. Although both their bodies were scraped and bruised, they were optimistic. It was a new day and at least they could face the challenges together.

"I found a path up the barrier, I think," Aurora told Devrim after they had eaten more dried food from their supplies. Their food stuffs were getting low, and so it was even more necessary that they get across the barrier as soon as possible.

"That's encouraging," Devrim said with a smile. "How far away is it?"

"Not far. If you are ready, we can go."

Devrim stood and reached out his hand for Aurora. His dazzling smile made her heart skip a beat. "Then let us go, my lady," he said playfully.