The stables were quiet, but as Lucius entered, he saw someone’s shadow at the end of the row of stalls, cast by the light of a hanging clay lamp. A small voice was speaking softly and as Lucius turned to walk down the row of stalls, he saw Phoebus standing before Lunaris, brushing him and speaking into his ear.
“Phoebus?”
The boy turned quickly and then relaxed. “Good morning, Baba.”
“Why are you up so early?” Lucius walked over to his son and put his arm around him. When he did so, he realized how very tall the boy had become.
“I couldn’t sleep,” Phoebus said, continuing to brush Lunaris down.
The big dapple grey stallion nuzzled the boy.
“He loves it when you brush him.”
“Do you think so? I love to do it. I can’t wait until I’m big enough to ride him.” Phoebus’ voice was sad then,
