The King's Horse
Nobility, honour and tradition. But a pain in his heart that consumes him.
"Get up, Georgie. The human is coming to saddle you."
"Already? I'm still sore from Bromswell. My legs haven't stopped shaking."
"Tell me about it. Want to see my wound? It's still bleeding."
"No. I've seen enough horrors to last me a year."
"Then prepare for a few more. I've heard they're keeping us in reserve."
"Are there any surprises left in war?"
"Plenty."
A long silence followed.
"What's worse, they're training the young ones now. Sally among them."
Georgie froze.
"No."
"I'm afraid so."
"Why? She's only three years old."
"The order came from above. Edward wants France back. They're gathering ships, men, supplies... and horses. Lots of horses."
"And Sally?"
"She's on the list."
Georgie's head lowered.
"I'm tired, old friend. I don't think I can do this anymore. I've been fighting for so long."
"I know."
"No, I don't think you do. My joints ache when I stand. My back burns when they tighten the saddle. I hear poorly from one ear. My eyes fail me at dusk. I carry arrowheads inside me from battles I've forgotten."
His friend moved closer.
"I know."
"And for what? What have we gained? The humans speak of honour. Honour," Georgie snorted bitterly. "Keep your honour. Let me keep my life."
"Careful..."
"I'm tired of being careful."
"You shouldn't say such things. Not tonight."
"Why not? I'm too old to lie anymore."
The other horse glanced toward the stable entrance.
"Because you're an officer of the King's cavalry."
Georgie laughed softly.
"Officer. That's a grand title for a beast who has buried every foal he ever raised."
His voice broke.
"They took my sons. Every one of them. They rode away beneath banners and never returned. And now Sally."
He stopped.
"I love that little girl."
The stable fell silent.
Outside, the distant sounds of men preparing for war echoed through the darkness.
After a moment, the other horse pressed his head gently against Georgie's neck.
"I know."
Tears rolled down Georgie's muzzle.
"I'm not a traitor," he whispered. "I'm just tired."
"I know."
"I'm so very tired."
The old horse remained beside him.
"Then lean on me, my friend. As you always have."
Footsteps echoed outside the stable.
"They're coming," he said softly.
Georgie closed his eyes.
"I know."
"I love you, old friend."
"And I love you."
The stable door began to open...
---🀄️---
About the Creator
Rene Volpi
I'm from Italy and enjoy writing. Being a storyteller by nature, I've entertained (and annoyed) people with my “expositions” since I was a child, showing everyone my primitive drawings, doodles, and poems. Still do.
Enjoyed the story? Support the Creator.
Subscribe for free to receive all their stories in your feed. You could also become a paid subscriber, letting them know you appreciate their work.
Comments
There are no comments for this story
Be the first to respond and start the conversation.