He led the King into the field, where Malon and Laurel were waiting on hand. As the armoured horse approached, Malon straightened the creases in her dress and quickly brushed her hair before standing firmly with her hands behind her back. Laurel dusted his overalls down and straightened his back.
The King dismounted his horse and removed his helmet, so his golden eyes could inspect the horse before him. Aurarius stood between them with his knees quaking.
"Good day, your majesty!" she greeted him and bowed low. "Welcome to Lon Lon Ranch!"
Ganondorf carried his helmet under his right arm, and dismissed Malon with his left. "Enough with the formalities. Is this the horse you have to offer me?"
"Yes, Sir." Laurel stepped forward to take the baton. "This horse is a fantastic steed; well-trained and obedient. The most desirable on the ranch."
Ganondorf examined Aurarius for a moment as he shivered under the shadow of the overcast sky. "Too common. Show me another."
All four of them were taken aback, including Ingo, who hurried over instinctively. "Malon, dear, why don't you show His Majesty to the stables where we have a few more to offer?"
Malon nodded obediently and strolled towards the stables. Ganondorf snarled and followed her reluctantly. Ingo chased after them leaving Laurel with an extremely distraught Aurarius.
"It's ok, Aurarius!" Laurel stroked his mane. "I'm glad you're not going into Ganondorf's hands; he seems awful!"
Aurarius did not respond as he hung his head in shame. Laurel stepped forward to face him and placed his hands softly on either side of his long face.
"You belong here, with me and Malon; not with the King of Evil. Besides, you're not too common to me: you're beautiful, kind and funny. I would have you as my steed any day."
Aurarius's eyes looked up into the teenager's eyes with gratitude and content. Laurel gazed back, with a look of true, honest love.