Chapter 6 - The Unbreakable Bond
"Leave us alone!" Lily screamed, standing in front of Eclipse with her arms spread wide.
"Move, you little brat!" Vance aimed the rifle. "That horse is a menace. I'm doing the county a favor."
Eclipse felt the danger. His survival instincts kicked in. He stepped in front of Lily, shielding her once again, stomping his hooves and tossing his head. He let out a piercing, aggressive warning cry.
"Shoot him!" one of the trackers yelled.
Vance’s finger tightened on the trigger.
BANG!
A gunshot echoed through the canyon, but it didn't come from Vance’s rifle. Vance dropped his weapon, crying out in pain as the dirt exploded next to his boots.
On the ridge above them stood Arthur, sitting atop a brown gelding, a smoking Winchester rifle pointed directly at Vance. Behind Arthur were three police cruisers, lights flashing, and a news van with its camera already rolling.
"Drop it, Vance!" Arthur roared. "The whole world is watching!"
The sheriff scrambled down the rocky slope, handcuffs already drawn. "Silas Vance, you're under arrest for trespassing, reckless endangerment, and attempted theft."
Vance’s face went pale as he realized the camera crew had caught the whole interaction live. "You can't do this! I own half this town!" he sputtered as the sheriff slammed him onto the hood of an ATV.
Arthur rode down the slope, his eyes filled with relief as he looked at Lily. "You okay, kid?"
Lily nodded, her hand resting on Eclipse’s neck. The giant stallion, sensing the threat was neutralized, breathed a heavy sigh and leaned into her touch.
"We caught him, Lily," Arthur smiled gently. "But there's still one problem. The whole world saw you run off with him. But to claim the prize, and secure both your futures... you have to ride him officially. In the sunlight. Can you do it?"
May you like
Lily looked up at the massive black horse. Eclipse looked back at her. There was no fear in his eyes. Only trust.
"Yes," Lily said.
