‘In all my life this wall has never been empty. I can’t believe that the horseshoes have been taken – and just before Midsummer Day too,’ said the stallion. He was a handsome animal – a copper-coloured pony, with strong legs and bright eyes, dressed in a royal red sash. The mare was a dainty yet majestic palomino with a golden coat and a pure white tail that fell to the ground like a waterfall. She whinnied softly. ‘We have so little time to find them all.’ With growing sadness the two ponies watched the night fade away and the sun rise. When the first ray of sunlight spread into the courtyard it lit up the wall, showing the imprints where the golden horseshoes should have been hanging. ‘Midsummer Day is the longest day of the year,’ said the stallion quietly. ‘It’s the time when our ancient horseshoes must renew their magical energy. If the horseshoes are still missing in eight days, then by nightfall on the eighth day, their magic will fade and our beautiful island will be no more.’ Sighing heavily, he touched his nose to his Queen’s.
