Hiro’s soft gaze widened into a smile when Akito agreed to the trip. The slight shuffles backwards didn’t bother the prince in the slightest. Akito was usually a high-strung and observant person- that and maybe he just really wanted his space. “Oh wonderful, I think we both need a break from this place.” The small jab towards the hustle and bustle of the palace made him chuckle, and while he did he turned to lead the way out. As usual, Hiro walked with his hands rested behind his back, his fingers hooked together. He glided gracefully across the smooth wooden floors as they headed outside. Unlike his betrothed, he was less vigilant of the servants that passed by. Thanks to the wedding, Hiro had already guessed that things would get a little busier so the foot traffic didn’t bother him. He gave nods and smiles where they were wanted or needed. The prince didn’t need any of their assistance and usually tried to stay out of their way. They were always busy with their routines, so the only servant he did bother was Kaede. But in his defense, she was also like a second- or third mother to him. 

Once outside, he spotted the saddled horse and a guard on either side. “I may have also pre-prepped for the trip with high hopes you would agree.” There was no guilt behind his statement, only admittance followed by a small shrug. He didn’t think it was too bad. If Akito did deny the offer, they only had to put one horse back in the stables. “Well, let’s not waste any-” 

One of the guards stepped forward and bowed as Hiro stepped to the horse. “Your majesty, the Queen wanted me to relay a message to you before you departed.” Slowly, he raised a small satchel, stealing a glance at both the prince and his betrothed. His slow movements were moreso of caution. He was aware that the betrothed ‘given’ was typically the best of the best in the royal army, so he didn’t want to make any movements that would cause an alarm. “The Queen stated she wasn’t sure how long your majesties would be gone, nor what you would be doing, so she got a lunch packed for you both.”

It was obvious by the smell that it was food in a tightly packed compartment. Hiro didn’t check the contents inside before slinging it over his shoulder. “Thank you. We will be back before the sun sets.” Both guards saluted and Hiro took his seat at the front of the saddle. He was fine with sitting behind, but with a quick glimpse of Akito’s eyes made Hiro refrain from questioning his actions. 

“So, we have food for the trip if you, or Hoko gets hungry.” 

The horse began to move and Hiro gave a gentle and relaxing sigh. Although towards the question, he couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow. His mind began to whir with possibilities of what they could do, but it stopped when he remembered why he wanted to take the trip in the first place. While Hironori was fine with being in the spotlight, even when he didn’t want to be, he knew Akito was the exact opposite. He wanted Akito to be happy and he seemed to be the happiest when he was in more quiet and peaceful places. [i]’Right, right, this is supposed to help Akito. I don’t mind the peace and quiet either for a change.’[/i] 

“That doesn’t sound like a bad idea. I can guess that the town has also learned of the news by now as well. And if I wanted to be questioned about anything and everything in regards to ceremonies and responsibilities, I think I would have stayed home.” He couldn’t help the laugh that followed. “A picnic sounds wonderful. We even have the food for it.” With a satisfied nod, Hironori settled into his seat and let Akito steer them to a nice picnic spot while he enjoyed the ride. Every time they left out, seeing the scenery almost always felt new. 

It was nice to take different paths even if they all ended up at the same point. Little by little, and piece by piece, Hiro was mapping out the small town they traveled through. Sometimes, he dared to explore farther, however his stubborn father would not have it in the slightest. Sure the prince had went past the kingdom a few times, but that was usually for meetings with other royal families so he never got to see what anything beyond the royal doors were like. “Hey...Akito? When you were with the army, did you travel a lot?” Hiro could only assume so, but he was curious nonetheless.