Normally, they wouldn't keep Namine so close to the royal family but.... this was a special occasion- she was the one that Riku was most looking forward to seeing from the Keep. It was for him that she was in front, not for her own benefit or merrit.
"I will see you at the castle," Corin promised, certain that his sister was in probably the safest place she could be.
Abe nodded a little. He was under no impression that the Prince had wanted him around, at first. His father would be so proud. Exceptional! Abe flushed pink and ducked his head bashfully. "You honor me, Your Majesty." He'd never dreamed about being a part of the Prince's court... not really. Oh SURE every little boy dreamed about being a knight, but Abe had hardly dared hope. He was the youngest, and therefore the least likely to inherit anything when his father died. His parents had been talking about sending him to a monastery for learning, or perhaps a lesser noble would add him to their retainers. He hadn't been destined for great things. But chance, luck, and hard work had miraculously won him the kindness of their Prince. It was really amazing!
It was nice to see happy faces along the way back. Being so far in front, Abe didn't see many reunions, but he DID see the delighted anticipation on the faces of those gathered around the road, waiting for their family members to appear, and the joyous sounds from the column behind when they did. It was as though a party, a grand celebration was growing right before their eyes.
And then, there was music. The closer they came to the walls of the great city, the more Abe heard drums, and whistles, and singing. His heart lifted joyously, and he tried to keep from urging the horse fast. At LAST, they were coming home! And for the people too, the arrival was the real and final sign that they had won and they would at last be at peace.