Philip didn't necessarily agree with the Prince's decision to sneak in, but he nodded anyway and said his dutiful "Yes, Your Majesty," and directed the group along the right fork.
Riku reached over and took Sora's hand. "I will be alright," he promised. "You can sleep soon."
But as the castle came closer and tantalizingly closer, it was all Riku could do to stay on the horse, and not jump off to run the rest of the way there. The sun was starting to set, telling of the late hour, but they'd made it.
Whether or not the Prince had avoided the grand entrance from the front gates, the yard wasn't exactly empty when they finally arrived. Servants and Lords alike had gathered, pretending to be busy, trying to see the Prince.
"His Majesty kindly demands that he be allowed to have some space," Philip said in a tone that DARED someone to disagree. "It has been a very long ride. You can see him tomorrow." Only a couple of stable hands were allowed forward to take the horses.
"Sora," Riku murmured as he held the Prince close after helping him down again, "You parents are approaching."