The light cleared, revealing, of all things, a mare. Jasmine slowly stood up. The majestic horse before her had a gleaming brown coat and dark brown eyes. Jasmine approached the mare. The mare whickered softly and nuzzled her.
“Are you loyal to me now, Lord Lake?” Jasmine whispered to the mare. “Or should I call you Lady?” Lord Lake, now Lady, whickered again. Jasmine smiled. “Now, instead of you riding me, I shall ride you.”
Luckily, Lord Lake’s clothes had become a saddle and bridle on Lady, so Jasmine was able to easily mount her new horse. After a few awkward moments of adjusting herself, she managed to sit side saddle like a proper lady. Jasmine picked the reins up in her hands and clicked her tongue. Lady set off.
When Jasmine returned to Simon’s house, her Master was waiting outside. He gaped upon seeing the mare his son’s wet nurse now rode.
“Where did you get that horse?” Simon demanded. Jasmine patted Lady’s neck before dismounting.
“I found her running the streets, riderless. I decided to bring her back here. Hopefully her owner can be found. If not, she may be able to reduce my debt to you and the Mistress.”
“Hmm. She does seem to be a fine mare,” Simon conceded. He sighed. “Very well. I will begin to ask if anyone has lost her. If not, you may either keep her or give her to me to reduce your debt.” Simon called for Damon, who rushed out of the house and led Lady to the small stable. Simon shook his head at Jasmine. “You are quite the odd girl, Jasmine.”
“I am aware,” Jasmine said with a small curtsey. Through the still open front door, crying sounded. “Master, if you will excuse me, I must tend to my charges.”
“Yes, by all means, do so,” Simon said. Jasmine smiled. As she walked into the house, she felt a sense of pride and hope from triumphing over yet another would-be rapist.