Scene LXXXVII

The smell of the horses' firm fur mixed with their dry food reached her nostrils once crossing the stable's entrance.

A man of cold demeanour stood further inside, eating the apple meant for the horse his hand was stroking.

Gilead heard the rustle of her steps and raising his brow, glancing from the side of his eye, a pause was given before the demanded greeting he should offer was given.

"... Ma'am. Greetings on this day to you."

"Greetings, Gilead….. I am pleased to see the mane of our horses is clean. Although the apples… Remember to leave a pair for their gentle teeth."

"... If their teeth were gentle I wouldn't avoid their bite."

"Indeed, haha… Yet I believe their kindness left as you eat their snack so wickedly before their eyes." — Pacing to caress a near friend, Ewelina mischievously told the guard whose eyes rolled as he sighed aware that her words were truthful.

"... Taking care of 'em requires the energy. I do leave many for them to eat."