No matter how gently Ovidiu approached—his voice soft, his hand extended with care—the horse could scarcely move. Each attempt to shift its weight sent sharp pangs through its legs, with traces of blood marking where the metal had bitten too deeply into tender skin. Its eyes, typically radiant with pride, now reflected a haze of fear and exhaustion.

Ovidiu’s resolve hardened. There was no time to delay. He reached for his worn leather satchel, pulling out heavy-duty wire cutters, pliers, and bandages. In a low, steady voice, he murmured, “Hold on, boy… I’m here for you.” Step by cautious step, he drew nearer, his calm presence masking the urgency racing through him.