While there had been much talk between the Safirian princes' and the royal family of Corona, Tamaa was ecstatic to hear that one of their lone scouts sent to survey any neighboring lands returned with a message that the kingdom of Equis would be joining the coronation. Sounded like things would be...interesting with King Trevor around. For Tamaa, it was seen as a case of 'the more the merrier' as he excused himself to construct a letter for the empress and the supplies in need for the journey.
Pulling out a little notebook and listing things off from his memory, Tamaa made sure to keep track of what was necessary. There would be supplies restocked for himself and Samson. It appeared that Nigel would be taking his own personal carriage for the journey, thus there would be a Safirian caravan for Rapunzel and Eugene for their comfort. Now with Lance being the guardians of the children for the duration of the trip, they would also require another caravan.
Unbeknownst to Tamaa, Eugene began to follow him as agreed with Rapunzel who would speak with Samson. Using his old skills, Eugene hid around the corners, ushering any guard that was patrolling the halls to continue on and ignore his investigation. All while noticing, Tamaa would occasionally pause and stare as the guards walked on after slowing their steps or waited to see if he could possibly hear something...or someone. This was what Eugene found interesting: could Tamaa be hiding anything important that he omitted to the royal family or was this merely instinct?
Not that Eugene could blame Tamaa if it were the latter. Living as a criminal and working under the Baron had also internalized paranoia and distrust at every step and distrust even amongst close individuals. It was every criminal for themselves and if the Safirian people were true to their word of living underneath a tyrant, a great risk to keep secrets close and lash out at others who tried to make trouble, then trying to find answers may be harder than he thought. Before Eugene could speak with Tamaa alone, the Safirian prince had slipped into his room and the doors were promptly locked.
At this Eugene clenched his jaw, missing his chance. Perhaps Rapunzel had better luck than him, but maybe, he could try and listen in on what Tamaa could be saying behind closed doors, but stopped himself. Even if he could overhear whatever the Safiran prince said, it's not like Eugene could actually understand him. Rather than leave and come back to try again, he stood guard around the halls, waiting to see if Tamaa would emerge to confront him…
…
Wait… did someone leave a window open? For some reason, the temperature in the room had felt as if it dropped.
Finally in the sanctity of the room, Tamaa had breathed out a low growl. This work of being friendly and nice was awfully tedious for his intellect. Preferably, he'd rather be at home to aid his cousin in running an empire rather than babysit Samson's chore of being an ambassador or curb his attitude. Could it be homesickness or could it be the feigned pleasantry that was giving him a headache, but thanks to Rapunzel's actions, they would be leaving these lands soon.
Looking around to ensure no one else was in the room, Tamaa had closed the curtains on every window and rummaged through his luggage. Throwing aside any form of clothing in order to find his desired object: a small vial that glowed with a red essence and a small jar of paint with a brush. Once acquiring the items, Tamaa had left towards the bathroom in order to fill the basin with water and draw strange symbols onto the mirror, before finally, pouring a single drop of the vial into the water. The mirror symbols began to glow and began to cloud over until finally, a shadow figure appeared on the other side of the mirror.
"Prince Tamaa"
"Greetings Captain Sefu, where is your brother?"
"Busy with important duties. Do you have any news about your travel or are you wasting magic on-"
"Calm down now." Tamaa gave a laugh. "So serious. I do have good news that the empress would want to hear. Or preferably your brother given that he is a higher rank than you."
"...What news do you have? Report. Otherwise you can wait until Niraj finishes his duties."
"Fine. Corona will be attending the coronation of the empress and will be sending their sole heir, Princess Rapunzel, along with a few of her friends. I have also received word that a neighboring kingdom known as Equis will also be arriving in Safira."
"Ah, that is good news. And what of the other kingdoms? Were you able to convince them?"
"They have rejected the invitations. Claiming that they've never heard of us or do not wish to be involved with us for the time being."
"Well...That's disappointing. But it's not a total loss. How many will attend from Corona and Equis?"
"Including the king of Equis and the princess of Corona, there will be twelve people and four animals that will accompany the journey to the homeland. I will be constructing a letter for the empress with further details of what will be required."
"I will inform the empress and prepare the guard to meet you at the crossroads. Anything else?"
"Can you be a dear and give your brother a kiss for me?"
"Gross… Goodbye Tamaa."
With that, the mirror had returned to its natural state. In order to ensure no evidence was left, Tamaa had rigorously cleaned the room and reopened the curtains to bring light in. Packing his belongings neatly again and leaving the room with nothing else for anyone to find if they entered. On the outside, everything looked as neat and normal as when they first arrived, thus Tamaa left to find Samson so that they could have some late night tea and dessert. Before continuing down the hall, Tamaa paused and gave a tired laugh.
"You know Eugene, if this is the best of your abilities in spying, then it's pretty embarrassing especially for a royal consort. But then again, that's what happens when you get too comfy with royal living. All that junk food makes you slow." With that Tamaa walked off with a chuckle as Eugene felt his blood turn cold behind the corner, watching as the Safirian prince walked onward.
...
Wait, did Tamaa just call him fat? Rude.
While the final preparations were being made and awaiting the arrival of the Safirian caravans, Nigel had come forward to Rapunzel with old information about the empire in the Coronan archives, along with lists of things for her to learn. Even with the two Safirians there to provide any and all that they needed to learn, he felt that it would be good for Rapunzel to memorize. It was all common courtesy, basic etiquettes, how to address royalty, the simple laws that the Safirans would expect their guests to understand, and more. Stressing that this would be a very important moment in the future queen's life as this would impact her status and how everyone would see her. At the end, Rapunzel rolled her eyes at him as she was more occupied with other things to worry about, but now, she just wanted peace.
"Oh come on, Nigel. Lighten up! This will be fun, I'm sure of it. There's nothing to worry about."
"Hoo-ray." His cheer lacked enthusiasm.
Well, you can't win over everyone. But for Rapunzel, this should be treated as a grand last adventure to save the world and maybe make a few new friends along the way. It was a time to celebrate after all. What can go wrong?
The next morning, Tamaa unveiled a Safiran hawk and attached a letter to its leg before releasing it into the air, stating that there is a halfway point between the Seven Kingdoms and Safira that others would be waiting for them. As soon as the hawk arrives, another will go forth and inform the empress of what would be needed and then the journey will commence.
While everyone else was excited and planning which personal belongings they would need for comfort, Rapunzel and Eugene kept to themselves, relaying what little information they were able to find. There wasn't much Eugene could offer after his failed spying and whenever he tried to speak with Tamaa or inquire about Safira and the empress, stating there wasn't much to offer in description until they arrived at the homeland. And after Rapunzel's attempt to speak with Samson, the younger prince would have none of it and ignore any conversations about the topic, most of the time hanging around with Tamaa and speaking with him in their native tongue, disguising it as home sickness and anxiousness of leaving now that their journey was complete.
Finally, the time had come as the long awaited messenger hawk arrived to confirm that the Safirian guards were already halfway towards Corona with the custom caravans and were estimated to arrive at around midnight. Much to the chagrin of Keria and Catalina as they were ready to start the journey, but were convinced that it would give some extra time to pack whatever last minute item they would need and give the others to say their goodbyes. From what Tamaa and Samson described, the land of Safira was subjugated to very hot and humid climates during the springtime, but it was more bearable compared to what the other seasons offered. Stressing that they were to carry light clothing and other items that didn't weigh them down too much even with the strength of the Marzu Goats. The nights were far more dangerous as the temperatures dropped and more wild beasts were active when the sun went down. And in order to prevent anyone from falling ill by such drastic weather change, it was best to leave early before the sun was able to warm the sands. A common practice to ensure the safety of the parties and there would be a crossroads to rest at and meet up with King Trevor before they continued.
It was clear that the other kingdoms were not arriving which meant there was more pressure on Rapunzel to represent Corona and make an example to the other kingdoms in creating an alliance with Safira. The pre-departure jitters that the others were experiencing had lifted a lot of troublesome thoughts off of Rapunzel's mind as she looked more towards the optimistic sides of things.
Classic Eugene had gone through his personal items over and over, debating on which lotions and moisturizes to take given that the heat and humidity would cause anyone to break out if they're not careful, and of course he wanted to look his best. There was even some conversation between Rapunzel and Nigel, along with the in-laws, on what sort of gift would be best for Sinclair. First impressions were everything and there wasn't much help from Tamaa or Samson on the fact that their empress wouldn't be so easily impressed with any of the gifts they suggested. Still, it was a nice idea to just surprise her.
"You know," Eugene smirked. "I bet if Cassandra was here, she'd probably suggest a dagger or something."
"Heh, yeah." Rapunzel smiled in agreement before her smile faded a bit, contemplating before turning to Eugene. "You don't think-"
"That we should get the empress a dagger or a sword?"
"Yeah?"
"...Actually that may not be a bad idea. We could get one of those decorative weapons. You know, just for show."
It was settled, for the time being. A decorative dagger, a genuine Coronan dress and shoes to match, and for fun, a simple book that Rapunzel thought that Sinclair would enjoy. Everyone likes reading.
Once that was complete, Eugene had moved onto other business as beforehand, his position as captain of the royal guard was transferred onto Maximuss given that Eugene would have more diplomatic duties that would occupy his time alongside Rapunzel. And thanks to the ever loyal and by-the-book stallion whipping the guards into shape, Corona would be safe until their return. But with Max coming along, it was best to request some back up. Still it was better to be safe than sorry and with some tasteful begging on Eugene's part, the former captain of the Coronan guard had arrived from his retirement for a short time to take command until Eugene and Max returned from their trip and were able to decide which of the guard would better aid as their second-in-command. Honestly there was some criticism as 'the Captain' remarked on how through all this time, Eugene still hadn't decided who would take over in case he or Maximus were preoccupied. But that was a conversation to worry about another time.
In Old Corona, Varian was sure to double and even triple check any of the machines and boilers for anything little thing that could set them off or break down while he was away. Making sure that his father was up for the task with the exact precise decisions. Seeing his own son worry so much madee Quirin chuckle a bit, reassuring Varian that Corona had been living without these luxuries before and if something happened, they would be able to manage until Varian's return from his journey with the princess. No doubt the two would miss one another. After the amber incident, both admitted they were reluctant from being apart from each other again. Still, Varian believed that this would be important and was eager to make the journey with the others.
All friends stayed at the castle for dinner and final moments of looking around to take in the scenery of their home before the caravans would come. For when the journey began, there was no turning back and no time to waste. But the anxiousness of their travel had outweighed the need for sleep as they stayed around the fireplace, read books, or told jokes to pass the time.
Outside on the balcony, Tamaa and Samson kept alert for any sign of their messenger hawk as it would announce the official arrival of their escorts as heavy fog began to fall upon the kingdom.
Finally, a loud screech had broken the silence as a Safirian hawk flew down to land on Samson's arm, with a message tied to its leg. Far ahead of the kingdom, the roars of a caravan train and its escorts came thundering down the path. It was time. The clock had struck midnight and in a rush, the gang had gathered all last minute items and moved to await outside as the Coronan guards stood watch. Mostly everyone was dressed in heavy coats to keep warm from the morning cold.
Suddenly, the sounds of thunder began to grow closer and closer, until finally their transport had arrived as the Coronans watched in awe. They were covered in gold, clearly to flaunt off wealth while the curtains and furniture inside were made of blue fabrics and some even had silver star-like markings. Large enough on the inside to give leg room for the individuals along the way, plus other commodities. While Tamaa and Samson's were pulled by Marzu Goats, the other caravan was pulled by manticors which growled and snarled, anxious to continue their travels once more. Beside them were four Safiran guards riding on camels, wearing heavily cloaked robes with only their eyes showing through the cloth. There were five more guards as well, four of them being archers wearing the same fashion as the coachman, that rode above the caravan and kept alert to their surroundings while another guard riding a camel leapt down from his mount and bowed to the group.
"Greetings, your majesties and friends," he spoke in a deep accented voice. "I am Niraj, captain of the Safirian guard and your escort. It is our duty and an honor to protect you in our travels to the capital."
"Your words bring us much comfort, Captain Niraj. Thank you." Fredric spoke before he and Arianna turned to Rapunzel for their goodbyes as the others began to pack their items.
In the following order, the carriage of the Safirian princes would be at the lead, followed by Rapunzel and Eugene, then by Lance and the children, and lastly by Nigel. Another carriage which would store gifts and other luggage would be hitched at the end. The animals were rearranged into proper positions to carry the full weight of their precious cargo and to provide faster transport towards the kingdom. It would be the responsibilities of the manticores to pull the first three carriages, four each, while the Marzu Goats would pull the last two.
The Coronans, including the animals, had made up for about fifteen in the groups, along with the Safirians with their tally of fourteen. With King Trevor who will meet them at the crossroads, that would mark about thirty people and possibly more within their party. Extra provisions from Corona were already packed for the long journey ahead in addition to what was provided by Empress Sinclair.
While the guards weren't as large as Samson, they were certainly admirable to look at being of a similar build to the captain of the guard and the Stabbingtons, which assured the royal family that they'd be well protected. She had asked about the animals pulling the caravans and was informed by Niraj that the camels were able to make the journey through the deserts without worrying about water while carrying extra provisions for the group and the manticores were strong enough to pull the caravans. Even with the Marzu Goats, luck on their side, and good weather, the party would possibly be able to arrive at Safira ahead of schedule.
Occasionally, Samson and Rapunzel would exchange glances before looking away but kept a professional stance in case anyone noticed. After their conversation, Eugene had comforted Rapunzel that maybe there were things that they'd find out in Safira for themselves rather than in story and it was too late to cancel any plans. Regardless, they'd be able to get through things no matter how tough or scary. They had before, why would now be any different? For the duration of their beginning travel, Eugene had taken it upon himself to saddle up on Maximus and ride alongside the Safirian captain.
Once all was settled and with no further actions needed, the coachman had taken their position and pulled at the reins of the lead animals that proved to be anxious in returning onto the road, pawing at the ground and growling at one another. With their final words of "goodbye" and "safe travels", everyone had entered their designated caravans and waved a farewell to their home. With a command, they were on the move as the beasts were eager to leave and without much effort had begun to make their way through the towns, the small villages, and past the Corona walls towards their destination.
Opening a window to look outside and take one last glimpse of home, Rapunzel rested her head on her shoulder as Corona disappeared over the horizon. It nearly brought a tear to her eye as she began to feel the pains of homesickness had begun to settle in.
"You okay sunshine?" Eugene rode along to speak with her.
"Yeah, just excited." She smiled at her.
"Get some sleep. We have a long way to go." He cupped her cheek and she reluctantly let go to head back inside.
Little did the two know, from above, one of the archers turned to the other and in a mocking way stuck out their tongue at the display of affection while the other stifled a laugh. This was going to be a long trip as they kept an eye on the surrounding horizon.
Inside the carriage, Rapunzel had found that it was much larger on the inside than anticipated compared to her old one when they traveled to the Dark Kingdom. It sort of reminded her of HookHand's carriage that was gifted by King Trevor. Beds were well made, tables decorated, and couches stocked with pillows as there were cabinets and shelves that held various snacks. It was beautiful and comforting as she wondered if the others were also decorated in the same manor. With that, Rapunzel made herself comfortable on the bed as Pascal slept beside her.
In their own carriage, it was just as similar with the exception of being separated in the middle for the boys and girls privacy. Lance had already set the girls to bed while Varian was sleeping on his own bed with Ruddiger curled up beside him and Hamuel had made himself comfortable resting upon the alchemist's hair. Once all looked well, Lance had settled onto his own bed to finally get some shut eye.
Lastly, Nigel had made sure that his own items were secured and that he didn't forget anything, yet the anxieties of travel were already beginning. With a sigh, he had laid on the bed and allowed the movements of the carriage to lull him into sleep.
Despite Eugene at their sides ahead of the caravan train, there wasn't much effort to try and understand their language as they conversed with one another. It felt a little lonely, but he and Max kept their heads high and carried on.
Slowing down to the window of the princes', Niraj knocked and was answered with Samson.
"What do you want?"
"Not you." The Safirian captain gave a smirk.
"Ugh." It wasn't long until he returned inside and was replaced with Tamaa.
"Hello handsome." Tamaa gave a flirtatious smile.
"Hello gorgeous. Have you been lonely without me?"
"Maybe..." Tamaa smirked as he leaned close to give a kiss on Niraj's cheek.
"So, what is she like?" Niraj gestured to the carriage behind them.
"Personally, I think Sinclair may like her. We'll have to send another message though."
"Oh?"
"She knows about the Jewel of Safira."
"...How?"
"Something about a magic monkey."
"Sinclair will want to hear about this."
"Yes… but who's going to tell her?"
It had only been twelve weeks since the departure from Corona and from what Niraj claimed, a much shorter trip to the crossroads than what was previously expected, even with occasional breaks provided for everyone. Upon their journey, another caravan arrived which carried King Trevor from Equis, along with a few of his own guards. Despite the other king's dramatic shenanigans, especially when it came to her parents, Rapunzel did her best to remain civil as it was expected of her and part of her believed that Trevor was somewhat good...when he wanted to be. Not easily intimidated by his threats, it may be given that even the King of Equis did respect this naive princess at times. Strangely, Trevor Jr., the royal seal of Equis, was nowhere to be seen beside the king. As much as he would have loved to bring him, King Trevor claimed that he would not subject his precious Trevor Jr in a land with not enough water to cater for him even with the Spring season. Along with the stories of the fearsome beasts that could cause harm to Trevor Jr. No, as much as it pained him, it was best to leave him behind in Equis as Trevor's carriage was placed second in the train.
The more they continued onwards, with the day and night trading places in and out, there had been other carriages and wagons that followed the group and upon questioning: they were also Safirians, or at least those descended from the very ones who were able to escape from the Tyrant. They all formed a large group and from Rapunzel's perspective, safety in numbers, as they neared their destination to the long awaited crossroads.
This land that they came upon was certainly a questionable meeting place. The Crossroads was a small city with many homes and fields, farmland and livestock, yet it was also eerie. Nothing but grass that was turning yellow for miles, several trees thrown around or saplings that were beginning to grow, and the only water sources were a lake along with a few wells strewn about. Yet there were people living there without much care or worry. The caravan train had been halted to the other side of the city where up ahead was a sea of sand, awaiting anyone who dared to wander. With the caravans together, the people had exited to stretch out their legs as the Safirian guards moved to switch out the wheels of the caravans, attach tarps above, and tie down whatever was loose. Inspecting their cargo carefully before returning to their duties of caring for the animals that deserved a much needed rest before the final journey and catering to the newcomers. Word spread that the entire group would rest for three days at maximum and it was best to purchase and collect whatever they needed in post haste before their next travel; be prepared or else be left behind.
From the corner of her eye, Rapunzel saw Samson and Tamaa in what seemed to be a heated argument with an older woman and her family. The family being the ones to try and pull their matriarch away from the argument or try to escalate things any further. Making his way by her majesty's side, Nigel also watched this exchange occur until Samson turned his back on the woman and left. It seemed that it was Tamaa who had the final say as he and the woman parted from one another.
"Your highness? What was that about?" Rapunzel asked with concern in her eyes.
"..." Tamaa gave a heavy sigh. "Well...I suppose you should know. That was the elder sister of 'The Tyrant'. An aunt of myself, Samson, and Sinclair. Long exiled and presumed dead for many years, but clearly alive...with her own family. She's unhappy with the fact that by law it is her family that should have the crown, but it's too late. Sinclair returned and the kingdom accepted her as their new ruler while Minerva here has been mostly forgotten. If she's smart, she'll keep her mouth shut to not cause drama for her brood."
"Samson told me that by birthright the crown goes to the eldest. Why would this be different?"
"Lady Minerva had been casted out, exiled by her brother, and rather than fight, she left. Which cemented her abdication as she did not return to Safira to challenge or stage a coup. After years and a series of unfortunate events, it was Sinclair who returned and eliminated 'the Tyrant' in order to become the empress. It is her strength whom the people follow."
"And what happens, if Lady Minerva won't take 'no' for an answer?" Nigel inquired.
"Simple." Tamaa replied. "She or one of her children can challenge Sinclair. But I don't have high hopes for them."
"Why not?" Rapunzel questioned.
"Same reason why Samson and I didn't challenge. Sinclair annihilated 'the Tyrant.' Her own father. She gave us an opportunity to challenge, but it was clear that she would eliminate any threats. I don't have much interest in ruling an empire and Samson was smart enough to stand aside and be content with his own place. When people challenge for a crown, there is always death at every corner, better to make it clear you're not a force to be reckoned with."
"That sounds barbaric." Nigel commented.
"It seems more like a bit of overkill to me." Rapunzel added.
"It's not that different from how your kingdoms are ruled. What do you do if someone wants to claim your throne? Step aside or fight? If you're lucky, they'll leave defeated and run off with their tails between their legs, never to return. If they don't...well the threat will return until someone is dead."
At that Rapunzel would've wanted to comment, but the thought of the Saporian taking over Corona came to mind. While she may not agree with the idea of killing her enemies, it did way heavily on her mind that they were willing to end her without remorse.
"Alright. I suppose that makes sense." Rapunzel sighed.
Tamaa continued. "Sinclair's place has already been set thanks to the Jewel of Safira. If Minerva tries to do anything, it would be seen as a threat. It's a shame though, I do like our other cousins, they seem to make more sense."
"What exactly is the Jewel of Safira?" Rapunzel questioned. "I heard it from Samson-"
"And he told me you heard it from a fortune telling monkey."
"..."
"Unfortunately, I cannot give you any information, but you'll see with your own eyes once we arrive in the kingdom and ask Empress Sinclair about it."
"So, there's nothing you can tell me?"
"...If Lady Minerva or her family prove to be a danger to her rule or the Jewel of Safira, then Sinclair will protect both at any means necessary." And with that, Tamaa left.
"Princess, if I may have a word." Nigel asked.
"Go ahead."
"I think we may have stumbled upon an upcoming family problem and an even bigger problem than what we expected. We may have to tread lightly when we meet the empress."
"I was hoping for something peaceful. Something to keep my mind off of what's been happening in Corona and maybe get some opinion on how to get everything to work together. Now I don't even know what to make of this situation."
"Well...Chin up. We've come this far. I'm sure you'll get the answers you're searching for. "
"Thank you."
"Sunshine!" Eugene called out to her. "We have a problem."
The two turned to see a not very amused Eugene holding up Shorty.
Somehow the old man was able to climb into the caravans without the Safirian guards taking notice and sleeping through the weeks of travel, claiming it was a few more weeks of winter which meant more sleep. It was far too late to turn back now and with reluctance, they would bring the old man with them. They were lucky that Shorty didn't make it into the rationed supplies and upon inspection, there was still enough to spare for the journey ahead. Along with the supplies that would be refurbished thanks to the crossroads.
It was the end of the second month to Safira.
The sun was barely touching the horizon as the moon was ready to take back their turn in the sky. Each of the caravans were restocked and examined for the journey ahead, animals were placed into different positions or traded for healthier stock that could make the journey. Carefully, Max's face was covered in a cloth to prevent any sand from entering his eyes while the other beasts were saddled with extra water provisions. Many of the guards were impressed at the sheer strength of the stallion and praised him for a job well done as not many horses were able to make such a long journey. With luck, their journey would end shortly should the desert show mercy.
Once everyone was ready to leave, Niraj had headed to the lead of the entire party with his younger brother, and second in command, Sefu. All eyes were on them.
"The kingdom of Safira is only a few more weeks away. Captain Sefu here will make things clear about the procedures in desert travel for all you first timers." Niraj turned and spoke in a low tone to Sefu. "Make sure they get it, we stop for nothing and no one."
With that Niraj turned away to face his animal to the desert, taking the lead to escort them all as Sefu had proven to be harsher than his elder sibling.
"If this is your first crossing, listen up! There is no water until we reach the kingdom. You are instructed to stay in the caravans at all times. Make sure to ration what you need and leave no evidence of food outside. There are a lot of things out there that will love to find an easy meal. And you better keep up, cuz if a predator catches you, you're on your own. MOVE OUT!"
At his word, it was the caravan train of the royal family which was the first to be set in motion as the sun had finally set. It would've been nice to have her friends all in one place to converse with each other, but Rapunzel wasn't willing to bend the rules as she wrote her thoughts in her journal. The other carriages were quick to follow close to one another, some even tying ropes for their animals to share the weight and not become separated in the environments. The lush green land that Rapunzel was accustomed to began to fade into golden sands until there was nothing, but desert, stone, and stars all around them. And even more desert. True to his word, Sefu had warned them about the desert heat as the midday sun was unbearable for the gang of friends. Any form of sunlight that tried to break through was quickly covered with any form of cloth and should anyone try to look out, they were met with dry wind and blinding light. Once the night came, many lanterns and candles were lit and the refreshing cold was welcomed with open arms as they breaked for a short time before continuing forward.
Since they were light on their feet, Lance had pushed the girls and Varian to sit upon the carriage during the nightfall, carefully helping them inside and out while others had the same idea for a short time. Even bringing some games such as throwing balls to keep the people entertained away from the boredom or stress. Rapunzel even followed suit and had leapt onto Trevor's carriage to lean over and speak with the king of Equis to make pleasant conversation. The good news was that besides not bringing Trevor Jr along due to the sensitivity of seal skin, there were going to be a few royal seal pups born in Equis and while he would like to stay, Trevor claimed that his visit was merely a sacrifice he was willing to make for the good of his kingdom. After all, royal relationships were important to establish and uphold.
The Safirian guards ran circles around them to see if anyone needed minor assistance or to patrol and chase off any suspicious looking creature that came near, others were harsher to hurry up or else they would be left behind. All while captains Niraj and Sefu were at the head and kept pushing onwards, Eugene followed them and constantly looked back to count if any carriage was at risk of being left behind. Sometimes pulling back to help urge those to keep moving on as there was no point in turning back.