Danaël took time to think about what to do next. A Royal delegation here in Goliath was a golden opportunity for the two boys.
They lacked the resources to continue the journey and would be stranded in the city of Goliath for a good year.
"A Royal delegation...", he continued thoughtfully. "Must be carrying food and merchandise. Which means there must be several carts in which we could smuggle them."
"What makes you think they're transporting goods for a simple visit?"
"Generally speaking, people from the upper classes like to be comfortable."
Dod nodded in agreement before speaking again.
"In that case, why not steal a cart straight away? They'll probably have supplies inside, so we won't have to worry about food."
"If we miss, it's life in prison..." Danaël replied.
The two boys remained silent for a few minutes, in a certain realization of the ordeal they were about to face. Danaël rose from his chair before extending his hand to his friend:
"If you go, brother, then I'm with you."
Dod gave one of his slight smiles and shook his companion's hand.
"Until death, Dan", he replied.
The two boys performed their special handshake, a form of signature, a pact they'd made years ago now. Two handclaps with one hand, and at the same time two taps on the chest.
Danaël and Dod had agreed to leave during the night, a couple of hours after sunset. They enjoyed their boiled potatoes in silence before getting ready for the journey.
In two backpacks, they equipped themselves with the necessities of life - they didn't have much, just a few clothes, what little food they had left, and a kitchen knife each.
They waited for an hour or so, when night fell and their little hut was completely plunged into darkness. Danaël scratched the back of his neck, a habit he'd never been able to get rid of.
As for Dod, he was fixing his hair in front of the mirror, the young boy paying far more attention to his appearance than his friend. Danaël stood up and walked in Dod's direction before tapping him on the shoulder and whispering, "Come on, let's go!"