Ethan's Loneliness

"I don't need a cowardly man to accompany me on my journey," Helena said, bringing the sharp tip of her sword closer to Peter's neck. A small drop of blood trickled from the scorched skin. "Go before I throw you into the wilderness and make you prey for the dragons."

Helena had sat atop her majestic white steed, Pegasus, exuding an air of regal elegance. Her attire, adorned with intricate golden embroidery, billowed in the wind, accentuating her strong yet graceful presence. The golden threads caught the sunlight, casting a radiant glow around her. The hilt of her gleaming sword, decorated with ornate carvings, remained firmly gripped in her hand.

"Don't hesitate or pretend to be concerned. I'm not foolish enough to risk my life and venture into the forest," Helena reiterated. "Having Pegasus by my side is more than enough."

As Peter stood before her, uncertainty etched on his face, Helena raised her sword, its sharp blade catching the light with a menacing glint. The sun illuminated her determined expression, accentuating her resolute stance. Her eyes, a piercing shade of sapphire, sparkled with unwavering resolve.

With a firm yet graceful gesture, Helena pointed her sword towards the path leading into the daunting depths of the Silverwood Forest. The white plume atop Pegasus's regal head bobbed gently, mirroring the noble steed's unwavering loyalty to its rider.

"Go," Helena commanded, her voice resonating with authority. The wind whispered through the trees, carrying her words with undeniable power. "I know you don't wish to risk your life on account of my desires. Leave now, before my resolve falters."

As Peter hesitated, his eyes flickering between Helena and the untamed wilderness ahead, the magnificence of the moment became palpable. Helena, an epitome of strength and determination, radiated an aura of commanding presence. Her steed, Pegasus, stamped its hooves against the ground, its muscular form and silky white mane embodying grace and power.

Peter lowered his head and wept. He knew the lady was stern and never one to show kindness. However, above anyone else, the Lady was understanding and forgiving. That was her way of showing mercy to her subordinates.

"Forgive me, My Lady!" Peter sobbed, bowing his head. "I will never forget your kindness." He bowed once more in respect and left Helena's presence.

Finally, Helena embarked on her journey alone. Helena and Pegasus formed a striking duo, a sight to behold. The bond between them was unmistakable, a testament to their shared courage and unyielding spirit. The sun's rays cast a halo around them as if nature itself acknowledged the awe-inspiring sight. They entered the narrow path through the heart of the forest with unwavering bravery.

"Let's go, Pegasus!" Helena exclaimed, urging her beloved white steed forward.

Meanwhile, Ethan, who wasn't even bid farewell, grew restless. He couldn't understand what he had done wrong for Helena to avoid him before leaving for Broughton.

Truth be told, he yearned to accompany Helena to Broughton. However, he didn't want to anger his wife by acting recklessly.

"Here's your schedule for the next week," Eric said, handing Ethan the itinerary he had prepared according to Helena's wishes.

But the dark-haired man felt lazy. He glanced through all the activities outlined by Eric and remarked, "I'm sure this is just a way to fill up my spare time, isn't it?"

Eric remained silent, knowing that Ethan had spoken the truth. He then sat beside Ethan and said, "You want to come to Broughton, don't you?"

Ethan nodded lazily, sipping the warm coffee he had brewed himself. "Why is there such a stubborn woman like her in this ancient era?" Ethan murmured.

"What do you mean?" Eric asked, feeling puzzled by Ethan's complaint.

"Oh, did I say something?" Ethan deflected, searching for a topic to shift Eric's attention. "I'm going to the livestock market. Can you accompany me in search of a good horse?"

"Of course!" Eric replied. "We still have time today."

Eric and Ethan then ventured together to the livestock market in search of a fine riding horse. Helena had long encouraged Ethan to find a horse, even providing him with the necessary funds through Eric. However, Ethan hesitated to spend it.

In moments of solitude like this, it seemed that horseback riding would be a pleasant activity rather than dwelling on Helena's absence. It was strange, as he didn't even feel love for Helena. How could he feel a sense of loss at this moment?

Ethan and Eric entered the bustling market, filled with merchants and their impressive array of horses. The vibrant colors of the vibrant marketplace added to the lively atmosphere as people bartered and exchanged goods.

Ethan's eyes sparkled with anticipation as he surveyed the various horses lined up in front of them. His gaze fell upon a majestic black stallion with a glossy coat that shimmered under the sunlight. The horse stood tall and proud, emanating an aura of strength and power.

On the other hand, Eric inspected a chestnut mare with a gentle demeanor. Her chestnut coat glistened with a warm hue, and her eyes exuded a sense of gentleness and docility. She seemed to possess a calm and composed nature.

As Ethan approached the black stallion, he reached out to stroke its sleek mane, feeling the strength in its muscular build. The horse responded with a gentle nudge against Ethan's hand as if acknowledging their connection.

"What about this?" Ethan asked for Eric's opinion.

"I don't think that my suggestion will change your decision. You like him, no?" Eric smiled lightly, patting the horse's head. "He is great."

After careful consideration, Ethan made his decision. He looked into the stallion's eyes, recognizing a shared determination and spirit. This horse would be his companion on their upcoming journey, a faithful companion he could rely on.

With the choice made, Ethan and Eric finalized their purchases. Ethan looked happy with his choice.

On their way back, Ethan led his magnificent horse while Eric walked beside him. Deep down, Ethan couldn't wait to ride his magnificent black stallion.

"Pegasus is Lady Helena's horse's name. What will you name your horse?" Eric asked Ethan.

Ethan looked at his horse again. "Considering its appearance, I want to name it Onyx."

"Great name," Eric replied.

The men continued their walk and stopped at a commoner's restaurant as Eric heard Ethan's stomach growling.

"The steak and drinks here are delicious. Would you like to try?" Eric offered. "It may not be fancy, but you'll be impressed by the taste."

Ethan agreed. He tied his horse and followed Eric to the front entrance of the restaurant.

As they were about to enter, they crossed paths with two men engaged in a serious conversation.

"I heard that a group of traders passing through the Silverwood Forest was attacked by a gang of robbers."