The stable master stepped forward. “Sorry, Sir Perceval, but he’s not here. But did he ever save our backsides earlier. Princess Wenda’s favorite mare had a difficult foaling and almost died, but Yale saved the mare and the filly. It was incredible. So impressive that the king gifted Yale a courser.”
“That’s good,” replied Father half-heartedly. “When did Yale leave?”
“Oh, ages ago. The birth happened early this morning, and Yale stayed until almost midday to make sure all was well.” The stable master shifted his weight from foot to foot as his expression tightened. “Yale had a packed saddlebag and left with his new horse. I’m sorry, but I didn’t think to ask any questions. He was expected home, I take it?” …show more content…
“Yes, many hours ago. Do you mind if Percy and I ask around to see if anyone knows of his whereabouts?”
“Not at all. Let me help, too.”
Father and Percy questioned everyone in the stables, but no one had information about where Yale might have gone. All of them reported he seemed his usual joking self, and each recounted the story of Yale’s tenacity in helping Princess Wenda’s mare and foal.
Father had been a knight for over twenty years, and Percy knew the man had witnessed all manner of horrors ad been to war. That’s why his countenance, that of fear, terrified Percy.
“We need to summon a search party.” Father’s words came out as a croak.
Percy was just about to open his mouth and agree when a group of men approached, Sir Lionel, Ulrich, Gawain, the King, Lee, Llacheu, half a dozen other men, and Wallace, whom Percy