So, the journey that had taken Anya three months went by in just three weeks. Yevgeney had to check his magic usage to make sure not to overdo things like his sister did. The unnatural speed of the Witch's Ponies required the witch rider to channel his or her magic through the animal, which meant that the ponies could only be properly used by those of witch stock. This was why the king's stable and army were not equipped solely with Witch's Ponies.
Well, that and the fact that they were terribly expensive. The Copperstone estate was one of the few places capable of breeding these animals, and they were quite well off for it.
At last, Yevgeney reached his destination. Cautiously, he stopped and made camp in the forest out of sight of the farm. While he was sure that the farmer's duplicity had stemmed from simple greed, he could not entirely rule out the possibility that they could have discovered the prince's identity and were in league with the rebels. A small chance, to be sure, but a risk even so.
Thus, he spent a few more days scouting the area, noting the various horses (all well-bred and well-kept) and people. By the first hour, it was clear that the farm employed a horse witch, as the characteristic magic signature was on every horse present. In fact, it practically filled the area, making it difficult for Yevgeney to locate the prince from afar.
Other than that, all seemed quiet. There were no additional hands, as the presence of a horse witch made extra help unnecessary. Also, he could not see anyone with blonde hair. Where was the horse witch? He knew that some spent time as horses themselves to relax and get closer to their charges, but that meant that this one really blended in with the herds.
Much as he did not want to, Yevgeney knew he would have to go there in person, but how? Carefully, Yevgeney considered his options.