Forty-Six

Nikiti’s mare limped as the pace slowed, forcing the party to stop. Nikiti dismounted and calmed the unremarkable bay with pats and gentle words spoken in gypsy tongue. She leaned over as she felt down the affected leg, then picked it up to look at the hoof. “Nikiti?” Alexis rode closer to her. “She threw a shoe,” Nikiti released the horse’s foot as she straightened. “I’ll have to walk her back.” “Sir Ivan, Dell and DeWayne,” Alexis looked from one knight to the other. “Please escort Lady Nikiti back to the castle. I wish to ride a little bit longer.” Alexis looked at Oswin. The knight nodded. They still had half their escorts, so it was all right to continue. “Yes, Your Highness,” Ivan dismounted and offered his horse for Nikiti to ride while he walked her mount back. The Dragon