The stables behind Carreon's outer castle walls were quiet, lit only by dim lanterns hanging from the beams. Most of the other horses were asleep or resting. Only one stall had movement, Gaspar's.
The albino horse shifted restlessly, his pale coat catching the light. He snorted and kicked lightly at the wooden floor, clearly unused to being saddled again.
Arthur stood beside him, tightening the worn leather straps with careful hands. He was twenty now, broader than before but still quiet in his ways. His bald head gleamed with sweat as he worked, and there was a tired look in his eyes.
"Easy, Gaspar," he muttered. "It's been a while, huh?"
Gaspar let out a low, uneasy sound, almost like a complaint. Arthur paused, letting his hand rest on the horse's neck.
"You haven't been used since..." He stopped, jaw tightening. "Since he died."
The horse neighed softly this time, not restless, just... present.
Arthur gave a small nod. "Yeah. I miss him too."
