"You are most welcome, my friend," Dara said, his voice warm and sincere. "You deserve every bit of good fortune that comes your way. And remember, the doors of the Golden Castle are always open to you. Reach out whenever you need help. You have always been a wise and capable leader, and I have no doubt you will rule your kingdom with honor and wisdom. Good luck!" Dara placed a hand on Obed's shoulder, a gesture of friendship and support. He then turned and strode back into the castle, his guards flanking him.
Dara wished he could have spent more time with Obed, but his responsibilities as king were demanding. He had carved out a precious few moments to bid farewell to his friend, knowing that time was a precious commodity. The weight of ruling seven kingdoms was heavy, and he was constantly bombarded with reports, petitions, and requests. He was also working tirelessly to delegate authority and establish a system of governance that would ensure the continued prosperity of his kingdom.
As Dara disappeared into the castle, Micah approached Obed, his arms folded across his chest. "Do you wish to stay here, my friend? Or would you prefer to return to my new kingdom with me?" he asked, his voice laced with concern.
Micah,on the other hand had been deeply moved by Obed's farewell. He understood the pull of home, the desire to be amongst one's own people. He had been ready to offer Obed a place by his side, a chance to continue their journey together.
Micah took a deep breath, his gaze fixed on Obed. He then stepped forward, offering his assistance. "Let me help you arrange your things," he said, extending a hand towards the pile of gifts and supplies. He obviously knew that Obed needed help organizing his belongings before his departure.
Obed's guards, busy tending to the carts, were unable to assist with the more personal items. Micah, recognizing this, offered his help, eager to be of service to his friend for this short time of them being together again. He gently moved aside the gifts, carefully arranging them, his movements smooth and efficient. He was a man of action, always ready to lend a hand, to ease the burden of others.
"I long to return home with you, my friend," Micah said, his voice tinged with sadness. "But I cannot. My duty lies here." His words were heavy with regret, a reflection of the bond they shared.
"Why?" Obed asked, his voice filled with a mixture of disappointment and hope. He truly wished Micah would follow him home. He knew Micah was a wise and strategic individual, and having him by his side would be an invaluable asset in ruling the Kingdom of the East. The weight of responsibility wouldn't feel so heavy with Micah's guidance.
"Honestly, I would love to go with you," Micah said, his voice laced with a hint of sadness. "But this is my home. I cannot abandon my people to live in another place. I wish I could, but I have responsibilities here. I care deeply for the people of this kingdom and I wish to stay and help Dara out in some little place I feel like my help is needed." He offered a pained smile, his eyes reflecting the conflict within him.
Obed's heart sank. He knew Micah was sincere, but a part of him couldn't help but feel a pang of disappointment. Micah had always been a source of wisdom and support, and he had often found himself relying on Micah's guidance. He knew that Micah's strategic mind could have helped him navigate the complexities of ruling a kingdom, but he respected Micah's decision. He knew that Micah was a man of principle, and his loyalty to the people of Genesis Kingdom was unwavering right from the time he knew him.
"I understand," Obed said, trying to mask his disappointment. "Though I am disappointed, I am happy that you are happy to stay here with your people. I was hoping we could face this challenge together. With your knowledge and my determination, we could have been a formidable force, a great Lord of the East. But I will face this alone. It's okay. Thank you for everything, Micah."
Obed's voice was laced with a hint of resignation, but he held his head high.
"I will miss you, Micah," Obed said, his voice softening. "But I will always remember your friendship and your guidance. Thank you for everything." He extended his hand, a gesture of farewell.
Micah grasped Obed's hand, his grip firm and reassuring. "I will miss you too, Obed," he said, his voice sincere. "Remember, you are not alone. You have the strength and the wisdom to lead your people. I have faith in you. you will make a fair and just leader if you can keep your anger away" He offered a warm smile, a gesture of encouragement.
"Goodbye, my friend!" Micah added again, his voice filled with warmth. "I know this is not the last time we will meet." Obed nodded, a silent agreement to their unspoken promise of a future reunion.
With their farewell exchanged, Obed turned his attention to his departure. With his men ready as well, they began to journey home, his movements swift and efficient. He mounted the steed, his hand resting lightly on the saddle, his gaze fixed on the horizon. He was ready to embark on his new journey, to face the challenges that awaited him in his own kingdom.
Micah watched him go, his heart heavy with a mixture of sadness and pride. He raised a hand in farewell, his eyes lingering on Obed's retreating figure. As Obed was still riding away smoothly on his horse, he looked back to the castle and caught the sight of Ruth standing at the third floor of the castle. She was watching him leave, a soft smile gracing her lips. The warmth of her smile was like the gentle rays of a morning sun, a reminder of the love and support she once had towards him.
He returned her smile, offering a small wave from his place beside the road. He knew that Ruth, with her kind heart and unwavering loyalty, would be a source of strength for Dara in the days ahead. He also felt a sense of gratitude for her little presence in his life, she was a kind hearted soul, Dara was lucky to have her.
As Obed and his army rode away, Micah stood there, his gaze fixed on the horizon. He knew that Obed would face challenges, but he also knew that Obed had the strength and the wisdom to overcome them and he can wish him nothing but Goodluck.