There was a flash of light. When the light cleared, Sassy had changed from black to chestnut, but remained an Arabian of extraordinary quality. Sassy snorted in surprise and stomped her hoof. Dmitri frowned.
“I don’t understand why it didn’t work,” Dmitri murmured. He raised his hands and cast the spell again. Once more, Sassy remained a high pedigree Arabian, but her color changed, now buckskin. Dmitri raised his hands once more. Before her brother could try another time, Anya nudged him.
“It clearly is not going to work,” she whickered reassuringly. “For now, though, at least it is disguise enough that Gelvin would not recognize her as the mare he met before.”
“This is true,” Dmitri agreed.
“Perhaps you need to rest,” Anya suggested. “I know that Sassy and I are weary and could use some time to recuperate. Could you write our family, let them know I am safe? By then, our minds will be clearer and we can tackle this problem.”
“Once again, dear sister, you show wisdom beyond your years,” Dmitri said. He stroked Anya’s face. “I will go inform Olsen that two horses arrived for myself and my wife and then send word to our family of your arrival.” Anya whinnied in response.
When Dmitri left the private stable, both Anya and Sassy settled into their stalls and fell asleep, worn out from their journey. Neither the mares nor Dmitri knew the reason Sassy was stuck as an Arabian was due to...