Krishnapriya reached out, her fingers grazing the horse’s coat. The animal, sensing an unfamiliar touch, reared back with a powerful snort, its front hooves pawing the air in a vigorous display of spirit. Aryavardhan didn't move; he simply gave a subtle nod, a silent command for her to mount. Taking a breath to steady her nerves, Krishnapriya leapt. She landed with a heavy thud against the horse’s spine, the heat of the beast radiating through her. Leaning forward, she pressed her lips close to the horse’s twitching ear and whispered a name that felt like a secret: "Aditya!" At the