The rhythmic clop of hooves on the forest trail echoed softly under the golden canopy of late afternoon sun. Shadows stretched long across the mossy path, dancing beneath towering trees as the wind murmured through their leaves. At the front of the small procession rode Head Knight Lance, a sentinel cloaked in black and steel. His tall, dark horse moved with practiced grace, ears twitching at the sounds of the woods. Behind him came two other horses—harnessed to a modest but finely crafted royal carriage—and beside them, a second armored guard handled the reins, keeping pace with disciplined quiet.
The royal carriage itself gleamed faintly under the sun’s farewell light. Its frame was sturdy and elegant, large enough to accommodate the comfort of its single noble passenger. Silken drapes covered the windows, shielding the interior from dust and the curious eyes of passing creatures.
Lance’s sharp eyes scanned the surrounding trees, their silence broken only by the occasional birdcall. The journey had been long, and the horses’ strides had grown sluggish—tired, worn from the day’s steady travel.
He raised a hand—gloved fingers curled with authority—and brought the procession to a stop. With a low, firm command, he gently tugged the reins and steered his steed off the road, guiding them toward a nearby forest opening where the trees parted just enough to offer a sheltered clearing. A soft river flowed nearby, its water glinting like silver threads in the fading light.
The other guard followed wordlessly, guiding the carriage into the clearing and loosening the reins to allow the horses some comfort. Lance dismounted with practiced ease, his armor barely making a sound as his boots touched the earth. He moved toward the carriage with silent purpose, the wind lightly tugging at his black cloak.
Upon reaching the door, he paused. Though unseen from within, he gave a low, respectful bow, one hand resting across his chest.
Then, in a voice calm and steady as a still lake, he spoke:
— “Your Highness. We have reached a safe clearing near the river. The horses require rest. We will remain here for the night.”
He straightened slowly, eyes respectfully downcast, even though the door had yet to open.
— “We are one, perhaps two days from the neighboring kingdom, depending on the terrain ahead. I will remain on watch until sunrise.”
His tone left no room for fear or uncertainty—only assurance. Without waiting for response or acknowledgment, Lance turned on his heel and strode away, already surveying the tree line for any signs of danger, ever the guardian, ever the shield.