When dawn arrived, Garinor had resolved his indecision. He knew he couldn’t run the kingdom himself, even if he spent years training for it and then had the help of advisors. It was so much more than he had ever aspired to and it was beyond his reach.
The prince arrived soon after with two plates of food and cold water to drink. “Good morning, friend,” he greeted Garinor upon entering. “Some breakfast for us.”
“Thank you.” The eggs were well-seasoned with herbs and spices and he found that it was difficult not to shove them all in, they tasted so good. He paced his bites and enjoyed every one of them.
“I trust you slept well last night?”
“I did, thank you,” he lied pleasantly, knowing it would be rude to say otherwise. “I spent some time thinking about your offer.”
The prince did not react. He merely waited for Garinor to continue.
“I think your offer would benefit us all, and by that, I mean us in particular and the kingdom at large.”
A wide, charming smile lit the prince’s face. “That is excellent news! I am glad you have decided in this manner.” He lifted his glass in salute. “Truly, everything will be wonderful and you will see that it is a wise choice.”
They finished their meal and then the prince went off to make preparations for the day’s march. Meanwhile, his chamberlain was sent in to tend to Garinor’s needs. “His highness has asked me to take care of your every whim, so whatever you desire, you need only ask.”
It was a beautiful day and Garinor opted to walk with the other men instead of riding on his horse. Instead, he offered the animal’s help to pull the wagons and, though it wasn’t too happy about the harness that was strapped to it, the horse tugged on the wares as commanded. Garinor stayed nearby, talking to the horse and to some of the others, thoroughly enjoying the start of this journey without the heavy burdens on his shoulders.
The day was off to a pleasant start, but it would not last for long.