Chapter 12: Taken

I turned to Laura as soon as they were out of sight. “What do you think?”

Her brows furrowed a little. “What do you mean?”

I sighed deeply, holding her hands. “I don’t think this is right.”

She closed the gap between us and said, “Tell me what’s on your mind.”

I looked around again and replied, “I don’t know if I can do this. You might think I’m going all through this trouble because of a horse. However, Lady’s a big part of my life and I never thought the day would come that I’d look for a replacement.”

I continued, “I have no idea what I should look for in a new champion. I’m not even sure if Lady would want me to find another one.” I hung my head low and sighed. “I don’t even know what I’m doing here.” I met her gaze once more and added, “Perhaps, I’m rushing myself into this.”

She smiled, gently engulfing my face with her gentle touch. I closed my eyes as I deepened my face into her hands, holding onto her wrists. Her nose kissed mine as she said, “Let the horse choose you. Not the other way around.”

My eyes opened. Baffled, I asked, “Choose me? How could a horse do such a thing?”

She lightly squeezed my face and rested her hands on my shoulders. She then explained, “Leo chose me when we became partners. We had something that I didn’t have with the rest. We immediately got attached to each other upon introductions. Isn’t that how you realized that Lady was your companion?”

My brows furrowed as I tried to remember how I came to that realization with Lady. I didn’t even recall that I made that decision on myself, that Lady would be my greatest friend. The only thing I knew was the more time we spent together, the quicker we became the best of friends. We were never separated as horse and master.

“I believe it was somehow like that. Do you think that’s even possible?” I asked, returning to her. “That a champion could choose its master?”

Laura retreated her hands and replied, “Grandpa Ben said it happens on rare occasions. But if it does happen, the bond between horse and master would be unimaginable.” She added, “I also believe that if a person forces a horse to submit, the champion will rebel.”

“But how would that happen to me?” Doubt continued to swirl in my mind, torn if I should take her advice. I’ve never done this before and no one has ever given me that advice. I was taught that the master chooses the champion, not the other way around. But as I continued to share glances with Laura, she seemed so assured, certain. Perhaps, this was an opportunity for me to try what she told me.

She chuckled and held onto my hand. “How about we walk along the horses?” she suggested. “Should you feel a connection, tell me right away.”

“And if I don’t?”

Her hand caressed my stiff hand. “Then we shall return on a different day. There is no rush in finding a champion. It will take time.”

I nodded, seeing reason in her explanation. “Let’s go then.” I began walking but she quickly pulled me back.

“We might need the owner to guide us,” she giggled.

“Oh, of course.” I cleared my throat and called for Lord Roland.

He quickly returned to the room. His two servants followed closely behind him. “Have you made your decision, Your Highness?” Lord Roland asked as he reached us.

I briefly turned to Laura for reassurance. She gave me a slight nod and I returned to Lord Roland. “I would like to take a walk along the horses. I want to see them all before I make a decision, if you don’t mind,” I said.

“If you wish it, Your Highness.” He bowed along with his servants. “Please, this way.” He pointed as he moved to the side.

Laura and I walked ahead of him, and he walked beside us. His servants walked behind us.

♔♔♔

Nothing but silence greeted us as we made our way through the stables. The horses were quiet. The only noises that were heard from them were their snorts and chewing. They seemed to be unbothered.

“If I may, why are the horses quiet?” I asked.

“They’re all trained to be well-behaved in all circumstances, most especially when we have visitors,” Lord Roland explained with pride. “Time was invested on each horse to make sure they’re both well-mannered and physically built.”

Baffled, I looked at Laura and she shared the same expression on her face. I could understand the benefit of having a tamed horse. But to have them silent in the presence of potential buyers seemed wrong.

“Shouldn’t they be excited when visitors arrive?” I asked another.

“Most of my clients preferred to have the horses quiet. They can’t make a decision when they’re being too vocal. Some of them didn’t want to spend time training the horses themselves. So, we took it upon ourselves to train a horse when it lands in our care,” he replied.

A well-mannered horse would be much appreciated. But if it’s not startled by an unknown presence, that would be a bad thing. It would be the proper way to get killed.

The looming silence was interrupted by a loud whiny from a different room. We all rushed to its direction and saw two men, struggling to tame a brown horse. The horse had a light brown body. Its mane, legs, tail, and snout were a darker shade of brown. A white line traced down from its forehead to its nose.

By the way it behaved, this horse was taken from the mountains. And those horses weren’t used to other creatures other than their own kind.

I looked into its eyes, and it expressed panic, horrified that a rope was holding it back.

“My apologies for this ruckus, Your Highness.” Lord Roland knelt before me. “This champion still needs more time to train.”

My eyes reverted back to the horse when I heard a whip. As its tip landed on the horse’s ass, the horse screamed in pain. It stood and swung its legs in the air, making the caretakers duck for their lives. It wouldn’t calm down. Its frantic actions got even worse.

As I saw a horrific sight, my heart broke. Laura’s grip on me tightened and I knew we felt the same agony.

I lightly squeezed her hand before I broke away from her.

“Your Highness, you might get hurt!” Lord Roland blocked my path along with his servants.

I nodded at him with a smile and continued to approach the horse.

The whipping did not stop, and it only agonized the horse even more. I turned to the person who held the rope. “Give me the rope, please.”

The caretakers looked at each other, baffled and afraid.

“There’s no need to be afraid, gentlemen. I know what I’m doing,” I said.

They shared another worried look before the man handed the rope over, his hands shook with fear. As soon as I grabbed hold of the rope, they ran and hid behind Lord Roland.

The horse panicked even more. But I kept my composure and didn’t fight with the horse. My hold on the rope was firm but it wasn’t hurting the champion. I raised my hand and slowly, I pulled the horse closer to my outstretched hand. I looked away, not wanting to add more to the horse’s already frantic emotion. After a few more tries, I was able to caress the horse and it relaxed.

As the horse calmed down completely, I turned back to it. As our eyes met, a surge of electricity flowed within my body. She was still afraid, but her eyes also said she was willing to trust me.

This is the champion I’m looking for.

“Well done, Your Highness,” Lord Roland remarked.

I looked at them and they were all amazed. Mouths agape, their eyes widened in shock. Laura, on the other hand, smiled as we shared a similar understanding.

“What is the name of this champion?” I asked Lord Roland.

One of the servants entered the conversation, “Unfortunately, we haven’t given it a name yet, Your Highness. She was only rescued today. She was wandering on her own when we found her.”

I turned to the horse one more time and at that moment, my decision was made. “I shall have this beautiful champion. And she shall be known as…Wonder,” I smiled. I rested my forehead on her face and accepted it. “How much for this lovely creature?” I asked, turning to Lord Roland.

“To be frank, you don’t have to pay for anything, Your Highness,” Lord Roland stepped forward, still keeping his distance. He continued, “You two seemed to have a special connection. The only thing left to do would be to sign a few documents. She is, after all, from our care.”

“You’re very kind, Lord Roland,” I nodded.

He then turned to the servants who struggled with Wonder. “Prepare all necessary documents in my office.”

They nodded and went on their way.

Laura finally approached us, carrying a smile. “What did I tell you?” she started, her hands behind her. “Let the champion choose you, not the other way around.”

Smirking, I rolled my eyes before I laid a gentle peck on her nose. I encouraged her to come forward and introduced her to Wonder. The ever-so-bold Laura reached out her hand in an attempt to stroke Wonder. Wonder happily accepted and the two immediately got along.

As Laura enjoyed her newly formed friendship with Wonder, I looked at her with amazement. It was a good thing that she accompanied me in finding a new champion. I remarked, “Thank you for your company. You brought good luck to me once again.”

She chuckled. “Does this mean we’re going to have a race back home?” she smiled teasingly as she raised a brow.

“I’m amazed at how quickly you dare me and how confident you are of yourself,” I replied as I stepped closer. “How about we have a calm trot back to the fields? I’d like for Lady to meet Wonder.”

She nodded.

One of the servants returned and whispered something to Lord Roland. He called my attention, which caused Laura and I to turn to his direction. “Would you be so kind as to accompany me to my study?”

I turned to Laura and reached for her hand. “Would you like to come with me?”

She smiled as she cupped my hands between hers. “I’m not needed there. I can wait with Wonder,” she said.

The two servants who accompanied us approached us. “Do not worry, Your Highness,” one of them said. “We’ll watch over the lady and Wonder.”

I didn’t turn my attention to the servant. My grip on Laura tightened as I kept my eyes on her. Something inside of me told me not to leave her alone. But I don’t know what it is. Truth be told, there was no reason for me to be afraid of leaving her alone.

But why do I feel this way?

“Robert, I assure you: nothing will happen to me,” she insisted.

My protest was cut short when Lord Roland called for me once again. Defeated, I sighed and asked, “Are you certain that you’ll wait for me?”

Laura let out a brief giggle. “I admire your protective nature. But you’re overreacting. What’s a few minutes to sort out important documents?” She moved closer and added, “I’m not needed there. I’ll wait with Wonder and the servants.”

Hesitant, I nodded. Caressing her soft cheek with my thumb, I gently kissed her cheek. “This won’t take long,” I said, determined.

“Take all the time you need,” she answered.

I turned away from her but still didn’t move. She then gave me a light push to start my walking. I then followed Lord Roland to his office. I stopped myself from looking back as I dragged myself towards the office.

♔♔♔

A long while has passed and I am still stuck in Lord Roland’s office. I read each document very carefully in order to avoid complications in the future. I tried to keep my focus here but something inside of me was being difficult. My mind kept thinking of Laura. I just felt uneasy about being away from her. And I shouldn’t be feeling that way because she was accompanied by two servants and Wonder as well.

“That would be all for the release of Wonder,” Lord Roland explained as he sat down before me. He has rummaged through everything and anything within his office. He then added, “All that’s left is your signature and you can be on your way.”

His words were muffled as I continued to feel restless. The quill was in my hand. It was only a few inches away from where I should sign. But I couldn’t sign it. Instead, my eyes would already look at the door, hoping for her.

“Is something the matter, Your Highness?” he asked, trying to get my attention.

I turned back to him with my brows knitted. “I don’t know why but I’ve been uneasy for a while now.”

“What do you mean, Your Highness?” he leaned forward as he grew even more confused.

“It’s as if something wrong is about to happen,” I struggled to find proper words to express my emotions. The only thing that was on my mind was Laura.

Lord Roland was silent for a few seconds when he replied in a much cheerful tone, “Maybe you’re nervous, Your Highness. To lose a beloved champion and to choose another wasn’t an easy decision. But I’m certain that Lady would be happy with your decision.”

I looked up to meet his gaze as I tried to believe his words. Was it possible that I was only afraid of upsetting Lady’s spirit? Lady would want me to be happy, I’ve been made aware of that. However, to choose a new champion felt like I’ve forsaken her and everything that’s happened between us.

“Your Highness,” he called out once more, removing me from my emotion of thoughts. “There’s no need to fear a new chapter. Lady meant a great deal to you. No one can change that,” he said as he looked earnestly into my eyes. “However, to stay in the past is to die as well. You won’t be able to move forward. You would always believe that she doesn’t want that for you.”

As Lord Roland explained himself, I found myself believing his words a little bit more. Lady wouldn’t want a miserable life for me. I shared a lot of great memories with her, and they would be cherished until my last breath. But I must move forward with my life, and she will already remain in my heart.

I nodded, smiling. “I might have been overthinking again. I apologize if I’m in such a state. I’m still in shock about everything that’s happened,” I explained.

He chuckled and laid back on his chair. “You simply acknowledged your emotions, Your Highness. You have nothing to be sorry about,” he said. “We were all created with our own hearts and minds. You’re allowed to feel some type of way after a devastating loss. Now, if you could sign all the needed documents, that would be perfect. We could also return to Laura and Wonder.”

“Of course.” The quill finally landed on the paper, and I gave my signature.

Lord Roland then took it and marked two seals beside my legislation: one seal represented the stables and the other represented the royal family. He rolled the document and slid it through an elongated, wooden tube.

“Here you are, Your Highness,” he handed the wooden container to me.

I smiled, shaking hands with him as I said, “Thank you for your help, Lord Roland.”

He bowed. “It’s been my honor. And thank you for trusting me with this decision-making of yours,” he replied. “Shall I have the servants prepare Wonder for you?”

“There won’t be any need for that,” I replied as he approached me. “I think Laura and the servants have prepared Wonder whilst we prepared the documents.”

“Ah, yes, the lovely lady that accompanied you today,” he smiled teasingly as he crossed his arms. He rested his chin on top of his hand. “If I may, Your Highness, I’m happy that you found love for you.”

My eyes widened but I quickly calmed myself, clearing my throat. “I’m not sure what you mean by that, Lord Roland.”

He let out a brief chuckle. He slid his hands into his pockets as he replied, “I’m past the years of my prime, Your Highness. But the tantalizing gaze of two lovers is all too familiar with me. No need to deny anything to me, especially to yourself.”

I couldn’t help but smile. “You saw right through my facade, my lord,” I remarked.

He nodded as he stepped forward. “And with all due respect, Your Highness, you cannot hide your affections for her,” he said. “Your eyes cannot hide the truth; that she makes you happy and she brightens your world. And I’m a firm believer of choosing whatever it is that makes you happy.”

I sighed. I answered as we headed to the door, “I’m afraid that my happiness isn’t something to be considered, Lord Roland. As the future ruler of our kingdom, my happiness mustn’t get in the way of my duties.” I continued, “The comfort, the benefit, the security of my people will always come first. My kingdom should be my priority. And at this moment, my quest for love has taken over that sense of duty.”

I shook my head slowly as I hid my hands behind me. “I now fear for my rule as king. If my emotions are this out of control, it could be fatal for my realm.”

Lord Roland then put a hand on my shoulder, giving it a light tap. “Don’t be afraid to stand for what’s right, Your Highness. We may live forever but once the ancient gods decide to end our journey of immortality, we’ll regret the things we should’ve fought for,” he replied.

I never knew Lord Roland would be someone I could talk to about my woes. I only spoke to him a handful of times and that was during special occasions. Specifically, banquets that were held in our castle. But to know he had different insights as an immortal, it was surprising and amazing that someone shared the same thoughts as I do.

“Thank you, Lord Roland,” I shook his hand for a brief moment.

“Now, let us return to the lady and have your horse prepared.”

♔♔♔

We headed to where we last left Laura and Wonder. But upon our return, the only person there was a cleaner. Rake in hand, he focused on removing excess hay from the ground.

“Excuse me?” I called out as I approached him.

He turned to my direction and bowed immediately. “Your Highness,” the cleaner greeted.

“Have you seen a horse and three other people here?” I enquired.

Keeping his head low, he replied, “Forgive me, Your Highness. However, I don’t know whom you speak of.”

“His Highness is asking about the new rescued horse,” Lord Roland entered the conversation, stepping out from behind me. “It was accompanied by a lady and two of our workers,” he added.

The cleaner took his time to think. His eyes widened and replied, “Oh, yes, my lords, I saw them upon my arrival.” He stood properly and proceeded, “They headed to the entrance. The workers already carried the horse’s necessities for preparations.”

I let out a deep breath, relieved. For a moment, I thought my restlessness was about to point to a disaster. You panicked too quickly. Don’t torture yourself. Laura’s safe. I scolded myself.

The cleaner then turned to Lord Roland. Brows knitted, he asked, “I thought that horse wasn’t ready to be sold, my lord.”

“I thought so, too. However, Prince Robert here,” Lord Roland settled a hand on my shoulder, “has proved us wrong. With his skill towards champions, the horse would be safe with him. I guess it’s only a matter of proper timing and the right owner.”

The cleaner nodded. “That is indeed wonderful for both master and horse.”

Lord Roland retracted his hands and said, “I couldn’t agree more. Well, we’ll leave you to do your duties.”

The cleaner gave his farewell greetings whilst Lord Roland and I proceeded to the entrance.

♔♔♔

As we made our way to the entrance, I started imagining the race I would have with Laura. Once we reached the fields, I would introduce Wonder to Lady. I would also ask for Lady’s blessing and guidance from above for my new companion. Then after that, a simple picnic would be the best way to end everything. Just the mere thought of spending time with Laura caused me to smile.

But when we arrived at our destination, my whole world stopped. My smile disappeared and my eyes widened at the horrific sight before me.

Wonder stood on her own at the entrance. The two servants were on the pavement. Their bodies laid down in a pool of blood. Their clothes were drenched by crimson red and mud. And the thing I feared the most…

Laura was nowhere to be found.

Lord Roland rushed to his servants. I ran to Wonder. After checking Wonder, I ran a bit further down the path, hoping that Laura was simply playing a trick on me with the servants. But Leo was gone as well.

“Laura?!” I called out in all directions. “Laura, where are you?!”

No answer.

My voice was answered by the echo of my voice and the birds that hovered above me.

My head spun as panic rose within me. I should’ve listened to my instincts. I shouldn’t have left her alone! My gut already told me that something was bound to happen. But I failed to listen to it.

I raked my hair with my hands in despair. I was horrified as I tried to paint a picture of what could’ve happened whilst I was away. I returned to Lord Roland and assisted him with his workers.

“Where’s Laura?” I asked the servant as we helped them sit by the nearest wall. “Where is she? What happened to her?”

The servant grabbed hold of my sleeve. “Your Highness…” his grip tightened as he struggled to speak. “She…was…taken…” he wheezed, out of breath.

Taken?!

“By whom??” I asked, unable to control myself.

The other servant groaned as he entered our conversation, “We were…blindsided, Your Highness. Gravely…outnumbered. They crowded over us. They have…beaten us…to the ground.” He took a slight pause to catch his breath. He then continued, “The last thing…we saw…was a knife... being held to her throat. She was blindfolded…her hands were bound…and a scarf was tied around her mouth to silence her. A sack…was used…to cover her face.”

His description of Laura’s torment broke my heart but angered me to the end of my patience.

Laura…my Laura was taken.

Suddenly, Wonder whinnied, causing me to turn to her. I noticed that there was a note near her, pinned under an enormous rock.

I rushed over to it and upon opening, it read:

Stories said the prince of Western Wind does not bleed. I would like to see it whilst I take his heart from him.

My jaw clenched as those words were imprinted on my mind. I crushed the paper into a crumpled ball within my hands.

Only one name appeared in my mind.

Benjamin.