The Vampire's Court

Chapter 19- Dancing with the Wind

The three of them rode hard, their horses' hooves pounding the earth as they devoured the distance. Seraphine, Gabriel, and Andrei rode in perfect sync, their laughter and shouts carrying on the wind.

As they approached a narrow stream, Gabriel yelled, "Last one across is un ou stricat!"

Andrei whooped, urging his horse forward. Seraphine didn't hesitate, spurring her mount on. The three horses thundered towards the stream, their riders leaning forward in unison.

Seraphine's horse, a magnificent black stallion, cleared the stream with ease, landing smoothly on the other side. Gabriel and Andrei followed close behind, their horses splashing through the water.

As they emerged on the other side, Gabriel grinned at Seraphine. "I'm surprised, draga, you can ride well!"

Andrei nodded in agreement. "Da, draga mea, you're a true horsewoman!"

Seraphine smiled, her hair streaming behind her. "My father taught me," she said, her eyes sparkling with pride.

The brothers exchanged a look, impressed. "We'll have to race again sometime," Gabriel said, his competitive streak piqued.

Seraphine laughed, urging her horse forward. "Anytime, boys. But I warn you, I don't intend to lose."

And with that, she took the lead, her horse surging forward as they rode off into the sunset.

As they rode, the landscape unfolded like a canvas of gold and green, with wildflowers swaying in the breeze like a chorus of dancing ballerinas. The sun cast a warm glow, illuminating the rolling hills and sparkling streams.

Seraphine felt alive, her deep ginger hair streaming behind her like a fiery banner. The wind whipped through her locks, carrying the scent of blooming heather and fresh earth. She closed her eyes, feeling the rush of the ride, the thunder of hooves, and the thrill of freedom.

Her horse, sensing her joy, responded with a surge of speed, its mane flowing like silk in the wind. Seraphine leaned forward, her body moving in perfect harmony with the stallion's rhythm. She felt the power of the horse beneath her, its muscles rippling like a living entity.

Gabriel and Andrei rode alongside, their faces set in determined grins. They were no match for Seraphine's skill, however, and soon she pulled ahead, her horse devouring the distance.

As they crested a hill, the landscape unfolded like a breathtaking tapestry. A sparkling lake glimmered in the distance, its surface dotted with sailboats like tiny toys. Seraphine felt her heart soar, the wind whipping her hair into a frenzy as she gazed out at the stunning vista.

In this moment, she felt invincible, her spirit merging with the horse's, their hearts beating as one. The ride was exhilaration, freedom, and joy all rolled into one. She was one with the wind, the sun, and the earth, her soul soaring on the updrafts of pure happiness.

Andrei and Gabriel caught up, their faces flushed with excitement.

"Draga mea, you're a true goddess on horseback!" Andrei exclaimed, his eyes shining with admiration.

Gabriel nodded in agreement. "Da, Seraphine, you ride like the wind itself! We can't keep up with you!"

Seraphine laughed, her hair still streaming behind her. "You're just saying that because you're tired of eating my dust!" she teased, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Andrei chuckled. "Well, maybe a little. But really, soare, you have a gift. Your father taught you well."

Seraphine's expression turned wistful, her gaze drifting off into the distance. "He did. He loved horses, and he loved teaching me how to ride. He said it was like dancing with the wind."