A Short Rest      

Horizon glanced back at the group as they trudged forward, the golden sands stretching endlessly beneath the setting sun.

The sky was painted in hues of orange and purple, signaling the approach of night, but even with the temperature dropping slightly, he could see the strain in their movements.

Seraphina, usually so poised and composed, was breathing heavily, her steps faltering as she struggled to maintain her pace.

He slowed his stride, falling back beside her. "You're exhausted," he noted, his voice low and matter-of-fact.

Seraphina looked at him, a faint smile on her lips despite the exhaustion etched across her face. "I'm fine," she said, but the way she took a deep breath between her words told him otherwise.