The Damsel and the Dragon

Chapter three: Into the woods

The next day, Bastien went about his duties as usual, cleaning stalls, feeding the horses, and taking them out for exercise. His father, a tall and weathered man with heavy gray brows and a stern countenance, rode his horse around the estate, inspecting the fields and the livestock.

Bastien watched from a distance, admiring his father's elegant riding skills and rugged appearance. Despite his admiration, he couldn't help but feel a pang of resentment towards his father, who had never shown any interest in his son's dreams of becoming an explorer, ever if he was supportive of his thirst for knowledge.

Bastien longed to share his hunger for adventure and discovery with his father, to have his approval and support, but he knew it was a fruitless desire.

As the day went on, Bastien found solace in the company of the horses, grooming and talking to them as he always did. He had always felt a special connection with these gentle creatures, their kind eyes and soft muzzles providing him with a sense of comfort and understanding that he couldn't find elsewhere.

He felt at peace when he was around them, and the unconditional love they showed him was something he had never experienced before. He was grateful for the companionship they provided him, and for the joy they brought to his life.

Just then, Prince Laurent had arrived at the stables and dismounted his horse with Paul, Bastien braced himself to take a deep breath and faced the prince. His heart raced as he anticipated what the prince might say, but instead, he went past him.

Bastien watched him go, feeling a mix of surprise and relief. He knew that the Prince was avoiding him but he couldn't help but be grateful for the reprieve. He decided to take advantage of the moment and just enjoy the company of his friends.

As the sun started to set, Bastien walked back towards the stables, leading one of the horses behind him. Just as he was about to enter, he heard someone calling out to him.

"Bastien! Wait up!"

He turned around and saw Paul jogging towards him.

"Hey Paul," Bastien greeted with a smile. "What's up?"

"I wanted to talk to you about something," Paul said, out of breath. "Can we talk?"

"Yes." Bastien said.

Paul smiled gratefully at him before turning serious. "But seriously, is everything okay? You seem a bit distracted today."

Bastien hesitated for a moment before deciding to open up to his friend. "It's just...Prince Laurent has been avoiding me lately."

Paul raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Really? Why?"

"I don't know," Bastien sighed. "Maybe he found out about my dreams of becoming an explorer and thinks less of me because of it."

"Well, that would be ridiculous," Paul scoffed. "You can't help what you're passionate about."

"I know, but unfortunately not everyone sees it that way," Bastien said sadly.

Paul patted his friend on the back sympathetically. "Don't let it get to you, Bastien. You know who you are and what you want, and that's all that matters."

"I guess you're right," Bastien replied with a small smile.

"Of course I'm right," Paul grinned. "But seriously, have you talked to the prince about it?"

"No, I haven't had the chance," Bastien admitted.

"Well, maybe you should try talking to him and clearing things up," Paul suggested. "He might just be going through something."