We sped past mother and father as my sister said, “Hi MOM & Dad! BYE Mom and Dad!” As she continued to giggle.

I couldn’t help it, I laughed along with my sister as we saw the expressions on their faces. It felt good to be able to brighten my sister’s day.

“He can fly?!” Both mother and father said in surprise.

It took a moment for my mother to collect herself and yell out a voice of concern. “Be careful!”

Ever my father, “Have fun kids!”

“It warms my heart to hear laughter in these halls again.” My mother commented as my parents took a moment to embrace.

Our personal royal knights ran after us, slowing just enough so they could bow as they passed by the king and queen. “Your majesties.”

“They get hurt, it’s your heads.” My father laughingly called out to the passing knights.

“I’m going to lose my job.” Aurora’s personal knight lamented as they were running to catch up.

“Don’t worry about it. The king was laughing, and it is not like any of us knew he could fly.” Mira stated.

“Yes, Prince James continues to surprise us.” Kira commented.

“Just roll with it. A royal knight must always adapt to any situation. Maybe you should join the morning training Daria. It would do you good.” LT Simmons huffed out.

“Who is the one breathing hard?” Mira teased.

“Hey, I am just fine without my body strengthening magic. You are the one cheating.” LT Simmons replied.

“I do not know what you are talking about. Besides, I agree Daria should join the morning exercises.” Mira answered.

“Uh-huh. Go ahead and ignore the fact that I can detect your use of magic.” LT Simmons deadpanned.

The knights finally caught up to us as we lay on the ground in the garden laughing.

“Again! I want to ride big brother again.” Aurora said.

“Phrasing.” I said out of pure reflex.

Aurora looked at me confused, clearly not understanding my Archer moment.

Laughing, “I mean, careful sister how you say that. We will find time to do that again for sure.”

“Prince James, I must plead with you to never do that again.” Aurora’s knight who I found out was named Daria. ‘What is with all these names that end in ‘A’, must be a cultural thing.’

“Daria, you heard my big brother. We absolutely plan to do that again.” Aurora replied, crossing her arms, and giving her best ‘don’t you ruin my fun’ look at her personal knight.

“Do not worry Daria, no harm will come to my sister in my presence. I am very protective of the people I care about.” I replied in the hopes of easing Daria’s concerns.

Daria looked to LT. Simmons, who was the highest-ranking knight present, for help. Simmons just smiled back at her and spoke up. “My prince, I was just saying how Daria would benefit from joining the early morning training exercises, what do you think?”

“Is that so? What do you think Mira?” I asked, knowing what Mira’s stance would be.

Mira smiled with a wicked grin. “It is one of the times I think LT. Simmons was thinking clearly. I completely agree.”

“Then I expect to see you join the morning routines.”

Thinking to herself ‘That man is a demon in disguise! Betrayed by my own comrades!’

Realizing she had no way of preventing this, Daria answered, “Understood your majesty.”

“Could’ve told us you could fly lad, nice thing to know you know.” LT Simmons stated.

“Got to keep you on your toes from time to time. Plus, the surprise on everyone’s faces was priceless.” I said before looking at my sister and continuing. “But the joyous laughter of my sister made it all worth it.”

“Awe, big brother!” Aurora said before giving me a big ole hug.

I pulled her to arms-length and asked, “Want to show me where to get the best treats? I do believe you promised me.”

I chuckled a little as my sister’s eyes lit up. She took my hand and started to pull me along. “This way, big brother, you’re going to love the sweetbreads and other treats. I know right where they stash them!”

Everyone seemed to get caught up in my little sister’s antics, laughing as Aurora pulled me along towards the palace kitchens.

While our knights were being sufficiently scolded and shewed away by the kitchen staff, my sister used the distraction to grab a few treats for us all. We ducked out of the kitchens and rejoined our knights before the staff realized what happened.

“Princess, I really wish you wouldn’t do that. The head cook really gets upset at me for barging in and disrupting the ‘sanctity of the kitchen’ as she calls it.” Daria complained to Aurora.

Of course, Aurora had a great reply, she simply handed the lady one of the sweetbreads and while smiling said, “But then we wouldn’t get to enjoy these all the time.”

She passed the other sweetbreads to the rest of us, “Enjoy! Tell me what you think Big Brother!”

Biting into the bread, I could taste honey and other sweet flavors, it was divine, perhaps a bit rich for me but so satisfying.

“Very yummy sis, great job.” I say while patting her head.

Aurora just beams up at me while devouring her sweetbread, this kid just kept getting more adorable every minute. We had found our way back to the gardens and just sat there for a while, enjoying the tasty treat and the peaceful atmosphere. I once again said a silent prayer thanking God for this new life I now had. I may not know which side my guide was on, but that did not change my thoughts of appreciation at being given this second chance.

We stayed that way for a time, all of us lost in thought, until one of the palace staff came to get us for dinner. Tonight, I was to have dinner with my sister and parents. I instructed the sweet lady, who reminded me of the real-life Mrs. Buttersworth, to escort us to the royal family’s private dining room. After thanking her, she excused herself as I held out my sister’s chair before taking my own seat.

My parents had an odd look for a moment while I was helping my sister with her chair but then smiled after. “You know son, we have people for that.” My father commented.

Aurora chimed in, “Daddy, I like when Big Brother does that, it makes me feel special.”

“Of course, you are special, you are a princess and more importantly daddy’s little girl.” My father said smiling back to my sister.

My mother decided to give her perspective, “Though it warms our heart to see you two getting along so well, I would ask you both to be mindful of your station around others.”

Seeing my sister’s smile start to fall our mother continued, “But seeing how it is just us right now, it is completely fine.” Seeing my mother wink at my sister and smile as Aurora’s face brightened once again.

‘Man, this kid truly is a national treasure.’ I thought.

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We ate an amazing meal. The food and spices of this world were impressive, but I guess that comes with living in a palace. I ate a rather large meal, noticing my appetite seems to have increased.

As we were finishing up, my mother spoke up, “Lady Rollara informed us that you are aware we intend to have your Royal Academy admissions testing conducted here in the palace.”

“Yes mother, she mentioned it.” I noticed she held back an urge to get up and rush me in another bear hug. ‘She is definitely getting better about that.’

My father spoke up, “The testing will occur tomorrow at midday. We selected this time so you would be able to finish your training exercises with the royal knights and military officers, while also allowing time for you to recover your energy usage before the testing.”

“That is appreciated father.” I answered.

My father nodded his head and continued his explanation. “It would be best to know your ranking and have you enrolled prior to your ball, which will be in a few days. Your mother and I will of course be in attendance for your academy testing, along with Marcus and Captain Spears. Any questions?”

“No father, my understanding is that I will be tested in various ways so the Royal Academy will have an idea of where to focus my studies.”

“Yes, your mother is an excellent healer and water mage, where I excel in fire Magic, physical enhancement magic, and various combat techniques. Having multiple aptitudes is not uncommon, however having strong affinities in multiple is rare, though I am sure you have been told that already. However, you come from strong family lines on both my side and your mother’s.” My father explained.

My mother put her hand on my father’s before speaking up. “Do not worry my baby, your father and I will be proud of you no matter what happens tomorrow.” It was clear she was making sure I felt accepted regardless. It was appreciated even though I knew I had nothing to be concerned about.

“I understand that mother but still let me say thank you for saying so.” I answered. I could tell my father held her hand firmly. ‘Thank you, father.’

“May I change subjects and ask a different question?” I inquired.

“Of course, baby, you do not need to ask permission. You can ask your family anything.” My mother replied while holding on to the table, looking like she was trying not to bolt from her chair to ‘take care of her baby’.

“This ball. What is the expectation? To my understanding, there are multiple factions in the kingdom, and they will be present, including some foreign dignitaries. Anything I should be prepared for?” I asked.

“Hahaha! Our son has a sharp mind honey! He is asking the right questions.” My father boasted.

“Yes dear, he takes after both of us.” My mother replied.

My father smiled at my mother’s response. “Indeed, my love, I wouldn’t have it any other way.” He turned to me and replied. “As to your questions, I would prefer to discuss them after your academy testing tomorrow. Your Uncle Marcus, Captain Spears, and Lady Rollara will be present, and it would be good for all of us to discuss what to expect. Plus, I want you focused for tomorrow, this is an important step for you in getting the right instruction. I will not have my son missing out because he was too distracted with other matters.”

“I understand father. If it is alright with everyone I would like to adjourn to my suite and attempt to get some rest.” I replied, using this as a perfect opportunity to do my own training for tomorrow.

“Of course, honey. Let us know if you need anything.” My mother said.

“Thank you, mother, I will.” Was my reply as I gave my sister a head pat and then made a point to hug my mother good night; it took her awhile to be ok with letting me go from her bear hug, but I figured it best to show her I was here to stay. Deep down I appreciated her concern and love even if it was borderline smothering.

I had no plan on resting but rather returning to my Demiplane. I have OPs to spend and plans to further advance.

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Walking out of the portal from my Demiplane back into my bedroom, I felt refreshed. Once again, I spent several days there, yet hardly any time passed here. The speed at which I could see results from my plans was very satisfying. There was also something almost intangible, a sense of peace while within the place I created. It was mine on a level I could not fully express.

The time dilation was a true blessing. I could rest several times over and have days to recover and still only a few hours pass here. It has allowed me to have the time to experiment in so many areas, especially my magic and crafting as of late. Sure, I practiced my various combat forms, but I just loved creating things and using magic, I mean come on, it’s ‘Magic!’

Well time to start the day. I want to be done working with the knights and officers early just in case I need to allow additional time for Energy Regeneration to top off my reserves.

Walking out of my bedroom, this time I found Kira waiting for me. “Kira, please inform the cooks to send breakfast early. Let’s eat in the suite. I want to get to the training arena early today.”

“Understood your highness. I’ll have one of the others send for the food. Someone should be always at your side.” Kira stated as she went to the door to talk to one of my other personal knights on the other side of the door.

It didn’t take the kitchen staff long to bring us food. I secretly cast purify food and water. It had become a habit of mine. It’s not that I was worried about poison as I was immune to pretty much all of them. No, it was more a habit as I shared my meals with my knights and would like them to remain healthy.

“Come, let us all eat quickly and get to the training arena.” I said after the food was laid out on the table.

“You do not have to tell me twice your highness.” LT Simmons said as he piled food onto his plate.

Breakfast was relatively quiet and over quickly. I could sense the unease and nerves from my knights. It seemed none of them wanted to distract me or discuss anything. ‘They seem more nervous for my testing than I am.’

We walked to the training arena in silence, my mind focused on the various projects I was working on in my demiplane. As we arrived, I noticed both Uncle Marcus and Reggie present along with the royal knights and military officers ready to begin training.

“LT Simmons please get them started on warmups.” I told LT Simmons as I approached General Marcus and Captain Spears. “Uncle Marcus and Reggie, what are you two doing here?”

Uncle Marcus spoke up first. “Ah my boy, it is good to see you. Do not worry, we both came to watch the training. We may have also ensured everyone was ready earlier than usual this morning. I want to make sure my nephew can finish early and have enough recovery time before your testing.”

“That is very kind of you both. I appreciate your consideration and concern.” I replied.

We watched LT Simmons and Mira get everyone warmed up. It was clear they both had more to say on the matter of my upcoming testing. Reggie was the first to speak. He told me with a concerned look on his face, “The testing is designed to be hard, however due to the fact that the instructors will be coming here, let’s just say the difficulty level will be greatly increased.”

“Why greatly increased? Are the instructors upset about private testing?” I asked.

“No, not at all, your highness. It is Royal Academy policy to be more rigorous on private testing than the public ones. This is a well-known fact across the kingdom. The benefit of this has been very useful for past royal family members and other high nobles. If someone passes during a private event it earns that family some clout and usually places the student in higher and more desirable classes.” Uncle Marcus stated matter-of-factly.

“Of course, your family has kept this tradition and both General Marcus and I benefited in taking private testing. Though my contacts have told me the Royal Academy faculty is planning on being even more intense. As you know the royal faction has been in decline over the last 10 plus years, the hope is if you can do well in any one area it will send a message to all the factions that the royal faction is regaining its former power and growing stronger than ever.” Reggie stated.

“How interesting. You both have given me much to consider. I do appreciate the warnings. If you’ll excuse me gentlemen, I have some training to do.” I said as I took my place at the front and took over the morning training.

---SIDEBAR CONVERSATION---

After Prince James walked away to lead the morning training, General Marcus quietly spoke to Captain Spears, “You didn’t tell him.”

“Neither did you. My father will not go easy on him. If he passes my father’s test, the nobles will hear about it.” Captain Spears replied.

“Your father trained both the King and I when we were younger. I still have a few scars to prove it. One of the few sword saints we have in this kingdom. He is the founding pillar for one of the noble factions. I worry for my nephew; your father has been very vocal on the responsibilities of royalty and the duty of nobles should royalty not do their part.” General Marcus said.

“My father believes with his whole being those in leadership positions have a duty to be strong and decisive. He respects the King from his younger exploits but does not support the royal family’s decisions regarding waiting to name an heir or being more neutral with some of our aggressive neighbors. He sees such thing as weakness and opening the kingdom to attack.” Captain Spears explained.

“A kingdom must remain strong and ever vigilant if they wish to have peace. Your neighbors may not think as you do and will pounce on you the first sign of weakness they find.” I remember his lessons well, captain.” General Marcus recited.

“He loves this kingdom General. My father is exercising his right as a sword saint and member of the Royal Academy Advisory Board. As a duke of this kingdom, it is better he be on the board then others. My father may not be an ally, but he is fair and holds the Royal Academy to the highest standards.” Captain Spears stated.

“Aye, I agree with you there. I would rather have an honorable adversary than a backstabbing ally. Another one of your father’s lessons I still remember very vividly.” General Marcus commented.

“My father still thinks I should step down as Captain of the Royal Knights. He finds little honor in serving a weak family, his words, not mine.” Captain Spears said the last bit out of concern.

“Oh, I know all too well captain. Your father is one of the few that can get away with such words, he has the strength to back it up.” General Marcus waved off the captain’s concerns.

“My father will not override my decision to serve this kingdom how I see fit. It has been our point of contention for many years. He does not see what I have, your family loves this kingdom with all their being.” Captain Spears pointed to Prince James. “Your nephew is no exception. He will be ready, and I would rather not worry our prince.”

“Very well Captain, I will not say anything. However, be warned now, if any harm comes to my nephew, the duke will get a reminder of how decisive I can be. The King may be constrained not to attack a duke, but I will not hesitate, protocols be damned!” General Marcus said very pointedly.

“That is one of the reasons my father likes you General.” Captain Spears said with a smile.

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