They ran, Lucas holding Celeste securely while Lydia led the way. Behind them, they could hear the sound of ice cracking as the Matriarch began to break free.
They burst into the clearing where they'd agreed to meet Damion's team, and Lucas was relieved to see the others were already there.
"What happened?" Damion said when he saw the sight of unconscious Celeste.
"Iron Tusk Matriarch," Lucas said shortly. "Celeste overextended herself stopping it. We need to move because it's probably free by now."
Zacard was already gathering their supplies. "We passed a cave system on our way here. Defensible position, and it's in the opposite direction from the Matriarch's usual territory."
"Lead the way," Damion said.
They moved quickly, Lucas adjusting his grip on Celeste as they navigated the rough terrain. She stirred once, mumbling something incoherent, but didn't wake.
