A cold wind blew past Darnisha's face as she rode beside Prince Cyrill on her horse. In a leather bag hanging from her saddle, was a precious potion of the Moonroot plant, the only hope for the recovery of Queen Alzena, Cyrill's mother.
The journey from the Airla forest to the kingdom of Atlas was long. The path they took wound through rugged mountains and steep valleys.
"You look tired, Darnisha." Cyrill said, his soft voice breaking the silence. He looked at her with concern. "Take a rest. We can stop for a moment near the river,"
Darnisha smiled faintly. "I'm fine, Your Highness. We should reach Atlas soon. Your mother needs this potion,"
Cyrill stopped his horse and looked at Darnisha more intently. "This isn't just about my mother, Darnisha. I don't want you to get tired. Your health is important to me too,"
Darnisha's face flushed at Cyrill's sincere words. She lowered her head, hiding her smile. "Thank you, Your Highness. But really, I'm fine."