The golden rays of the morning sun gently kissed the palace grounds as the first prince prepared to embark on his journey. His horse was saddled, and his loyal guards stood ready, their armor glinting in the sunlight. As the air hummed with a sense of adventure, Princess Arẹwa arrived to bid him farewell.
Arẹwa's eyes held a mixture of concern and reluctance as she approached the first prince. Though not bound by blood, their bond was strong, and she couldn't help but worry about his safety.
"Good morning," she greeted softly, her voice carrying a hint of sadness. "Are you truly ready for this journey?"
The first prince turned to her with a warm smile, a mixture of excitement and determination in his eyes. "Good morning, dear sister. Yes, I am ready. I'll be heading to Àwórì's kingdom. All of our farm products are to be transported there. A trusted friend oversees the wares."
Arẹwa's brow furrowed as she considered the distance and potential dangers of the journey. "Àwórì's kingdom is quite far, isn't it?"
He nodded, his expression serious. "Indeed, it's a journey that will take approximately two weeks each way."
Her worry deepened as she contemplated the time he would be away. "Two weeks is a long time. Are you certain you'll be safe?"
Just then, the second prince arrived, his presence exuding confidence and reassurance. He had come to stand in solidarity with his elder brother, a demonstration of the unity among the royal siblings.
"Good morning, brothers," the second prince greeted with a nod. "Are you prepared for the journey ahead?"
The first prince clasped his brother's shoulder with gratitude. "Good morning. I am more than prepared. And I have full faith that our younger brother here will manage things in my absence."
Observing the interaction between the brothers, Arẹwa couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to this journey than met the eye. "Is there something you're not telling me?"
The first prince shared a knowing look with his younger brother. "Arẹwa, your concerns are valid. But trust that we have everything under control. My younger brother will ensure the safety of your people and your kingdom while I'm away."
The second prince added, his gaze steady, "You needn't worry, Princess. Our priority is the well-being of your people, and I will make certain of it."
As the sun continued its ascent, another prince joined them, representing their ailing father who was resting within the palace chambers.
"Our father sends his best wishes for a safe journey, my brother," the third prince conveyed. "Though he could not come in person, he takes solace in the herbs you've provided him."
The first prince's eyes softened as he looked toward the palace. "Please extend my regards to him. Let him know that he remains in my thoughts and prayers."
The time for departure drew nearer, and Arẹwa approached her brother, a small pouch in her hand. Inside were special herbs she had prepared for him, a token of her concern and love.
"These herbs will offer you protection and strength," she said gently, handing him the pouch.
Gratitude filled the first prince's eyes as he accepted the offering. "Thank you, dear sister. Your kindness means a great deal to me."
With horses ready and guards at their posts, the first prince mounted his horse. He glanced back at the palace, his eyes meeting Arẹwa's, and in that moment, they shared a silent understanding and hope for the future.
As the first prince set forth on his journey, his heart was a mix of determination, hope, and the assurance that his family stood united. And in the distance, Princess Arẹwa watched, her heart heavy yet full of anticipation.