After the barracks at the Stepsons barracks, when Niko cannot find his Askelonian mare, the Theban goddess offers her own black stallion to Niko and takes his mare in trade, saying that if the mare is his, it will die; if it hers, it will live. This stallion is black with a golden muzzle, flawless, and possessed of great intelligence, stamina, courage and speed. In battle, it heals from wounds as soon as it takes them. Although it does not speak, it may prompt its rider as to the best course of action, or refuse to obey a command it deems dangerous or foolhardy. This horse, fit for a god, cause comment at the barracks, and Niko offers it to any Stepsons for breeding. When Niko attempts to give the stallion to his commander, saying it is too fine a horse for such as he, Tempus refuses, telling Niko not to offend the goddess by giving away her gift. Niko rides the stallion in the Battle of Meridian and thereafter, where its feats become legendary. [ - ]

After the barracks at the Stepsons barracks, when Niko cannot find his Askelonian mare, the... [ + ]