Arthur's POV
My heart stopped as Elara stumbled forward, directly into the path of the rampaging stallion. I lunged to grab her, but the panicked crowd blocked my way.
"Elara!" I shouted, pushing against the wall of bodies.
Chasing Wind reared up, his massive hooves pawing at the air. His wild eyes locked onto Elara's small figure. Even the most experienced handlers avoided this horse—he'd sent three stable boys to the hospital last month alone.
But what happened next defied all logic.
As Elara regained her balance and faced the stallion, something changed. Chasing Wind froze, his ears pricked forward. The rage in his eyes softened. He lowered his front hooves to the ground and stood perfectly still.
The crowd fell silent, watching in disbelief.
Elara didn't flinch or back away. Instead, she extended her hand slowly. "Hey there, beautiful," she murmured, her voice carrying in the hushed silence.
Chasing Wind snorted once, then took a cautious step forward.
