After I met with the king’s grandmother, I decided to explore the castle. The estate was enormous. Archaic stone walkways and perfectly manicured gardens with lovely fountains. Then I saw stables, and my mood instantly lifted. My feet carried me there. I loved horses. 

The scent of hay and leather greeted me as I stepped inside. Stable workers moved about. They didn't spare me a glance. 

One horse immediately caught my attention. It was breathtaking, with a coat as white as snow, and stood proudly in his stall.

He lowered his head, allowing me to stroke the bridge of his nose. His coat. For the first time since arriving here,...