I joined my parents, sister, Lady Rollara, Uncle Marcus, Reggie, and his father the duke for a celebratory dinner. Of course, the duke crashed the dinner, my parents did invite him to join us, but he was already butting in and walking with us towards the private dining hall.
The duke had his arm around my father talking with him as we walked to the private dining room, “You know you should have told me about the prophecy. We could have avoided so many misunderstandings and disagreements over the years.”
My father looked sideways at the duke and said, “It would not change anything. Unless you met him and took his measure, you never would support our decision.”
The duke laughed, “Hahaha, you’re probably right! However, there is no denying it after fighting him and seeing the results of his other tests My Prince is a genius in combat and magic.”
The duke looked over to Lady Rollara, “Perhaps we should consider implementing a plan similar with the young nobles, take them away from their families and have them focused on learning such skills.”
My mother’s comment shut down that thought. “Taking away a child from his family is never the answer Duke. We sent our son with our most trusted servants who were a loving couple. A child grows strong in a loving home where they are required to do their part and help as part of a family. In this way they learn how they can contribute to society and find their own purpose. We need healthy and whole families not less. The environment we provided for my son was one where he had to work smart and find balance, that is what is missing from some of the nobles approaches to raising their children.”
‘Well said mother.’
Apparently, the duke agreed, “Well said your grace. Some of us have forgotten the sacred duty we have to our people and the kingdom. I had thought you and King lost sight of that, but it is clear that is not the case. Please forgive this stubborn old man.”
“There is nothing to forgive. You have embraced our son, your prince, as the heir to the throne. Just put as much effort in supporting him as you did to rally your own faction and the scales will be balanced.” My mother said.
“Of course, your grace! You are a wise a forgiving queen.”
Dinner was pleasant. The food was balanced and very flavorful. To my surprise, the Duke, Uncle Marcus, Reggie, my father, and mother all talked about their own experiences of testing and their fond memories while attending the Royal Academy.
I learned that my father excelled at both body-strengthening magic and battle magic with an emphasis in fire magic. ‘No wonder he seemed so pleased with the recounting of my battle with the undead army.’ My mother, on the other hand, excelled at healing and support magic with strong affinities to light, water, and life magics. Each a formidable force to be reckoned with but together they were even greater than apart.
I also learned why my parents were so adamant on my attendance to the Royal Academy. Apparently, my parents fell in love at the academy, even though they had met several times prior at various events and balls, it wasn’t until they worked as a team, that it became clear how much better they were together. They had hoped I could find such a partnership for myself there. My sister loved hearing that part of the stories being shared, and I too enjoyed understanding everyone just a bit more. Including the Duke, who seemed to make Reggie sigh at his father’s antics, which I found hilarious.
Towards the end of the evening, we discussed the Coming-of-Age Ball my parents were planning in my honor. This is where nobles, magicians, wealthy merchants, and artisans would meet me and where my parents would announce me as the official heir to the throne. They also intended to let slip the fact that I got the highest score on my entrance tests, I think my parents and Duke Spears want to gloat.
My mother also made it very clear I would be introduced to the various eligible ladies at the ball. I inwardly groaned once again at my mother’s antics. It was bad enough she would look for any excuse to hold on to me so tight and not let go, just as she finally was getting better at that, now she is trying to marry me off.
‘Heck my own mother from my old world didn’t have this much in my life, and she was Italian!’
I couldn’t help but shake my head at how my new mother went from not letting go to swinging the pendulum the other way to trying to marry me off.
‘I may inwardly groan but truth of the matter is they both have been amazing parents to me since my arrival. Then there is my sister who is adorable beyond words. Yes, I will protect this family.’
After dinner, we all were calling a night. The duke said his goodbyes and made it very clear that everyone in his previous faction would know to join mine. True to his word, the moment the duke returned to his estate, he wasted no time and dispatched messages to be sent to everyone in his faction. The messages were very clear, it told them to join my faction or be ostracized by the duke. He also told them that during the ball he would officially announce his support of my claim to the throne and that he was part of the prince’s faction. There was no doubt in my mind that the duke meant what he said and wanted the whole kingdom to know it.
Having the Duke as an ally was a great boon for my family. Sure, I appreciated having someone so straightforward be part of my faction, but what truly warmed my heart was to see the duke joining my faction also seemed to help the relationship between a man and his son. Reggie may have groaned out loud at his father’s antics, but I could sense the joy and feeling of peace at finally resolving the conflict between them. Such things were far more important to me than one additional person on my side.
As we said our goodbyes, Reggie and Uncle Marcus decided to escort me back to my suite. The conversation that occurred on the walk back surprised me.
“Thank you, Prince James.” Uncle Marcus said.
“Huh? Thank you for what?”
“For proving the King and Queen right in their decision. It has been hard on them over the past several years. First, to be without their child and then to lose ground with the nobles as the people began to question the future of the kingdom. You are turning into the glue that is bringing this family and our kingdom back together.”
“You are too kind Uncle. I love our family and glad I can do right by them; it is the least I can do for the love and acceptance they have shown me.” I replied.
My uncle smiled wide and gave me a side bear hug. “I am proud of you boy! You may not realize yet how big a boon having one of the dukes so passionately voice their support, especially Duke Spears. Many of the nobles that used to be in the royal faction went to Duke Spears’ faction out of loyalty to the kingdom and their fear of its survival. Gaining those people back will help your parents, but the duke is also, as you witnessed, an amazing fighter and tactician. There is more going on both foreign and domestic than I can share at this moment. In time we will discuss.”
Uncle Marcus excused himself once we reached my suite and went on his way. After he left, Reggie asked to speak with me in private, so I asked my knights to wait outside. After giving my knights a nod and letting them know I wished to speak with Reggie alone, we entered my private conference room.
Once we closed the door Reggie spoke up. “I too should thank you, James. The rift between my father and I was growing worse and worse as time went on. Each of us understood in principle the other’s positions but could not agree on a common path forward. You have created that path and I thank you.”
Reggie got on his knees and bowed low. “I give my vow to you Prince James Drake; I am your man from now until death!”
‘Well, this is not what I expected. Their rift must have weighed heavier on his heart than he cared to admit.’ I thought before replying.
“I accept your fealty Captain Reggie Spears with the same gravity in which it was given.” I said as I helped him up and onto a chair at the table.
“You are too kind Reggie. It is clear your father is a good man, and though we are heavily influenced by our upbringing, we are still our own people making our own decisions. I am proud to call you a friend Reggie, the first one I made and perhaps my only one in this world.” I replied, memories flashed in my head of friends and family I left behind in my old world.
Reggie thought, ‘Seeing the look on Prince James’ face it is clear he is remembering something. The way James carries himself and that look of loss on his face, it is clear the prince is wise beyond his years. He sometimes even talks like a wise old man.’
After a moment of thought, Reggie decided to speak up. “Prince James, I am honored you consider me a friend. I do not think I am the only friend you have though my prince.”
“Oh?” I replied.
“You seem to inspire loyalty.” Reggie said.
That statement made me think, ‘I wonder if that is a result of the Loyalty Magic I learned. Am I giving off some aura or doing something unconsciously? One more thing to add to the list of things to figure out. Man, this list is getting long. My buddy would be proud, he loved making lists. Wow random thought, bury emotion and get back to paying attention.’
“… I cannot believe you do not see it. Your personal royal knights have told me how grateful they are to be assigned to protect you. The more and more time they spend by your side the surer they are of how proud they are to stand with you.”
‘Yep! I definitely have to be doing something. I wonder what it could...’
My thoughts were interrupted by Reggie continuing his impromptu speech. “You have been isolated but you are home now, and you will find many wanting to be your friend and/or join your faction. Give it time and choose wisely.”
“I appreciate the encouragement. I am fine. I do consider my knights friends and in some ways family. They are good people and I trust them but that does not change the fact that you are my very first friend Reggie.” I stated.
Reggie gave a slight head nod of acknowledgement. “Point taken James. I consider it an honor my friend.”
Giving Reggie a head nod of my own, I decided to shift the conversation in another direction. “Not to change the subject but I’m sure the leader of my knights LT. Simmons spoke to you?” I said.
“He did. He requested an additional 4 knights minimum be selected to ensure adequate protection for his majesty and proper rotation to ensure all his men be well rested enough to remain alert. Apparently, to quote the lieutenant, ‘Sir, the ladies refuse to leave his side. At times I have to threaten them to get them to rest.’ Still think you do not inspire loyalty?”
“Loyalty or something else I’m afraid.” I answered.
“You are the most eligible bachelor.” Reggie replied.
“Don’t remind me. My mother is far too eager to get me married.” I groaned.
Reggie chuckled and seeing my face, wisely got back on topic. “Ha, yes… well, back to LT. Simmons’ request. I have brought the matter up with the King and Queen, they are quite supportive, though your father said something to the effect of ‘that’s my boy!’ and your mother thought maybe all your knights should be women to ensure you are always protected.”
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I laughed at my parents’ antics. “Haha, that sounds like both of them. I guess I hadn’t noticed since three out of the four knights are women. Well, we should plan on selecting a minimum of another four knights before the ball.”
“I’ll arrange it for tomorrow. Have a good evening, James.” Reggie answered.
“You too Reggie. I’ll see you tomorrow after training.” I replied.
Reggie left as Mira and Kira entered the suite. “Ladies. I’m going to get some rest. I hope you do the same.” I said as I walked into my bedroom.
“We will do our duty and stand guard.” Mira said.
“If there is anything you need do not hesitate to call upon us your majesty.” Kira said.
‘Geez LT Simmons is right. They need a break. I appreciate the loyalty but man I can see bags under their eyes.’
“Good night, ladies.” I said, shaking my head as I closed my door.
I did my nightly ritual of putting up my wards before entering my Greater Demiplane. ‘Time for a combination of intense work and enjoyable relaxation.’ I thought as I walked into my realm.
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The next morning, Reggie joined me in my room where we, along with my knights, had breakfast. During breakfast Reggie asked if Mira, Kira, and Rita would conduct the training in my absence this morning. The girls looked very uncomfortable with the idea.
“Why Reggie?” I asked even though I already had an idea of where Reggie was going with his question.
Reggie smiled at me as he replied. “It is simple your majesty. It is best we start right away with the selection process. Seeing how LT Simmons is the leader of your personal royal knights, I would like him to sit in on the selection process.”
“Makes sense to me.” Turning to Mira, Kira, and Rita I continued. “Girls, my apologies, but please facilitate the training and exercise session this morning. Captain Spears and LT Simmons will both be here to protect me should anything arise.”
The three ladies looked crestfallen as they realized they could not disobey a direct order.
Rita was the first one to speak up. “As you command my Prince.”
Kira was a few moments after with a sad look on her face. “If that is what you require of us, we will of course do whatever you require, your highness.”
Mira looked like she was clearly not happy but too complied. “We will complete this task and return quickly my Prince.” Under her breath I heard her say, “and those soldiers will finish quickly or suffer my wrath for being away from my Prince.”
‘Is she turning into a yandere?’ I shuddered involuntarily at the thought.
See my shiver, Kira asked, “Are you cold my prince? Shall I fetch you a blanket?”
Realizing I let my emotions get the better of me, I quickly changed subjects. “No, I am fine, just a chill. Let us finish breakfast so we can get our tasks accomplished.”
After the girls left, Reggie had one of the servants bring in a cart. On the cart were several stacks of papers with weights on them to prevent them from flying off while in transit. It seemed like Reggie put in a great deal of effort to pull the information I would need to make informed decisions.
“I have organized the candidates into different categories. Each stack is one of those categories.” Reggie said.
Realizing my parents were not going to join us I asked what was on my mind. “Shouldn’t the King and Queen be involved in this process? They were last time.”
“Good question your majesty. That was the appointment of your first personal royal knight, LT. Simmons. The king and queen wanted to make it clear to the royal knights and the military how important you were to the kingdom. With your parents giving you authority over the royal knights, the decisions are yours, that is the burden of command.” Reggie replied.
“Ah because I was in isolated exile, they needed to make sure our forces knew not only that I had returned, but more importantly the King and Queen’s expectations on the priority of my safety. As to be expected of my parents.” I replied, before sighing as I realized the other part of my parents’ expectations. ‘I asked for authority of the knights and now must prove to them and others of what I can accomplish.
After my brief moment of self-reflection, I looked at Reggie. “Alright, I interrupted you, Reggie. Please continue.”
Reggie smiled as he saw my thoughtful expression. “Not a problem at all your highness. It is clear you are beginning to realize the scope of your responsibility. This is a good thing my friend.”
“Thank you, my friend.” I said as I gave a slight nod to Reggie.
“As for the candidates, the categories are as follows: exceptional melee, healing, battle magic, and utility/support. The last category has a wide range of different skill sets.” Reggie stated.
“Hmmm.” LT Simmons said while stroking his chin.
“More Melee fighters would be good, but we should look at some additional magic capabilities. Some support options might work well to fill in any gaps. How many more personal knights do you want my Prince?” LT Simmons chimed in and asked.
“Good question lieutenant. For now, I was thinking a minimum of four but a maximum of 9.” I answered.
“Thirteen personal royal knights would ensure plenty of overlap in coverage and leave some room to send some on specific missions. It is a good number, your highness. I’m surprised you would go so high, you seemed rather reluctant of the whole personal guard situation.” LT Simmons replied.
“Not opposed to it, more a matter of not used to it. Having all of you by my side brings me comfort to know someone has my back in a fight. Plus, I will need to rally the nobles and people of this kingdom, signs of strength are good for that.” I answered.
“Very well let’s get started. I would prefer we get as far as we can before the ladies return.” LT Simmons said under his breath.
“Reggie, if my other personal knights return before we have finished our selection process, please inform them we are not to be disturbed.” I said before turning to LT Simmons, “Better?”
“Thank you, my prince. I have no problem giving them orders and there is not question that they are loyal, it is just…” LT Simmons replied as he looked for the right wording.
Reggie chimed in. “Overly zealous when it comes to being in our prince’s presence?”
“Yes, you took the words right out of my mouth. Thank you, captain.” LT Simmons replied.
“Must be my exceptionally high Charisma. Man, what was I thinking?” I commented to myself.
“What was that? Did not quite understand what you said James.” Reggie asked.
“Oh, it’s nothing my friend. Just realizing some of the additional challenges in living around so many people now.” I answered.
LT Simmons laughed a big hearty belly-laugh as he slammed his hand down on the desk. “HA, HA, HA! The interest of so many beautiful women is a challenge many of us would gladly take on! You are young my prince and the most eligible bachelor in the kingdom, heck the continent! Enjoy it! Stop fretting so much.”
“HA! The lieutenant is right! Besides from what I hear, the queen has every intention of getting you engaged as soon as possible.” Reggie laughed.
“Don’t remind me.” I groaned.
“It is the way of things my friend. Heck now that my father and I have reconciled, my own mother is making efforts to get grandchildren.” Reggie commented.
“That is all well and good captain, but I was just trying to encourage him to have some fun! Ha, ha, ha!” LT Simmons replied.
Shaking my head at their good-natured jabs. ‘This makes me miss my friends and our joking around but blessed to have friends here.’
I gestured to all the documents in front of us on the table. “Shall we get to reviewing all these files?”
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We reviewed every file and that was no small amount. ‘Reggie was very comprehensive in his preparation. I think the only royal knights that are not in this report are the ones already assigned to my family or the ones still going through their training and apprenticeship.’
After reviewing over 200 royal knight profiles, I now have a greater understanding of what the royal knights are capable of. ‘I could accomplish much. Thankfully Reggie separated them into piles by skill set was most helpful.’
The piles were not evenly distributed. Exceptional melee tended to be the more numerous stack due to the nature of the royal knights. All royal knights had the ability to strengthen their bodies with physical enhancement magic but many also possessed exceptional weapon skills or some additional talent. The girls were a perfect example of this.
Mira was an example of an exceptional melee fighter. Her short-sword and dagger capabilities tied to her faster than normal agility is very impressive. I have seen her take down knights larger than her without breaking a sweat.
Kira was the example of a healer, her natural talent in healing runs through her family. Several of her family are in the church due to their natural healing abilities, which explains why her faith is so strong. She still had excellent fighting skills with the staff and proves even a healer can be a great fighter.
Rita was an example of support. Her talents with the bow are unmatched. I have seen her infuse mana into her shots making them able to accomplish some amazing things. Rita was by far the deadliest ranged fighter the kingdom has ever seen. Including her hunting and tracking abilities and she became very handy on longer expeditions.
The biggest hole I saw in my personal knights was having no one well versed in battle magic. This was not to a surprise, as the most talented magic casters tended to be royal court magicians. In addition to our lack of battle magic prowess we needed to have more than one knight of each skill set category. With these gaps in mind, we reviewed the various piles.
After much consideration I selected the following to add to my personal royal knights:
-Sergeant Callus Thorn as 2nd in command behind LT Simmons. He is also a formidable melee fighter with strong defense capabilities.
-Muro, a giant of a man and an exceptional tank with some earth mage capabilities to strengthen his body and protect his friends.
-Anara Rane the frost battle mage. She is cold as ice and a deadly damage dealer.
-Aeria Chemos, a wind mage to fill the role of support with her speed and area of effect spells.
-Taka Anella, a female knight who according to LT Simmons was a giant of a woman, she excelled in melee combat.
-Sloane, a knight who possessed rogue-like abilities and some access to shadow magic.
-Leonard Phillips, a knight with some minor healing capabilities as well as a diverse range of skills making him a good fit for a general support role.
-Cooper Cavaliere, a knight who came from a long line of knights famous for their mounted combat skills among other fighting abilities.
“Prince James... are you sure about some of these choices? LT Simmons asked hesitantly.
“Speak your mind, Lieutenant!” Reggie said on my behalf, knowing I would prefer to cut to the chase.
“Of course, sir. It’s just that Sloane and Leonard are...not ideal.” He said hesitantly again before continuing after seeing Reggie’s annoyed face. “Sloane has...” LT Simmons paused as he seemed to be looking for the right words. “Sloane has ‘difficultly’ getting along with some of the other knights, I think it has something to do with the dark/shadow magic he has access to. As for Leonard, he is a good man and loyal, but for a knight his skills are average.”
Realizing where the Lieutenant was coming from, I stated my reasons. “Let’s address Leonard first. Yes, for a knight most of his skills are quite average but the point is that the skills he possesses are quite numerous making him a good utility player. The term I like to use is Jack-of-All-Trades.”
They both looked at me confused so I tried to explain. “In other words, Leonard can fill multiple roles which can be invaluable to our small team. Having someone that can fill in anywhere we are weak or round out any team is a rare find indeed.”
It seemed like the light bulbs went on over their heads because they seemed to understand now why I picked Leonard.
“I have a new appreciation for Leonard now. But what about Sloane? He cannot be trusted!” LT Simmons expressed his concern.
“Ah, Sloane is better at stealth and assassination, making him the perfect spy for covert missions. Such skills can also come in handy when trying to detect other users of dark/shadow magics. Mira is good at such things but according to your notes Captain, Sloane is the best you have in such skills.”
“That is true….” Reggie hesitated before continuing. “It’s just Sloane has been known to associate with many of our less than upstanding citizens.”
“Exactly! I am counting on those connections.” I replied.
Both men looked confused at my reply.
Seeing their confusion, I decided to explain further. “Gentlemen, sometimes we do what we must for the good of the kingdom and sometimes that means dealing with less than reputable characters if we need to deal with other shady individuals. Having Sloane on our team will help make those connections and possibly get answers from different channels not normally open to us.”
“It does make sense, my prince.” LT Simmons sighed, “It is ultimately your decision, your highness. I will trust in your judgment.” LT Simmons said.
I turned to Reggie. “Captain, please make the necessary announcements. I would like to meet with my whole team later today. My mother told me that Mrs. Teege will be by later this morning to have me try on various outfits for the ball. I would like to meet with my team after all that nonsense is concluded.”
“Hahaha, she’s gonna turn you into a pincushion.” LT Simmons laughed.
“I don’t know why you’re laughing Lieutenant. Mrs. Teege will be taking your measurements as well. In fact, all of Prince James’ knights must be measured so she can create a matching honor guard
uniform for the ball and other special occasions. This is a direct order from the queen.” Reggie deadpanned.
“Can’t I just wear my armor? I hate getting all gussied up. My duty is to protect my prince, not look all fancy.” LT Simmons groaned.
“I’ll pretend I didn’t hear that, Lieutenant. As royal knights our appearance is a reflection on the royal family. In such events it is our duty to look our best.” Captain Spears scolded him.
“Yes sir! My apologies Captain, our prince is so laxed on such formalities, I forgot myself for a moment.” LT Simmons replied.
As LT Simmons put his head down after his apology, Reggie smiled at me. I could tell he was enjoying this chance to polish some of LT Simmons’ gruff nature.
From what Reggie told me, LT. Simmons came from a small noble family from the same territory Rita was from. In fact, his family sponsored Rita’s enrollment into the military. Some of the nobles had looked down on the Lieutenant when he first arrived in the capital due to his speech patterns. His family was one of the rare nobles who worked alongside the people they were responsible for. LT Simmons had picked up some of their more colorful ways of speaking. He of course polished his manner of speaking, at least for the most part, and was able to rise quickly with his talent with a mace and body enhancement magic.
In front of nobles, he knows how to act the part but around his men he is more himself. This was one of the reasons I chose LT Simmons to be my head personal knight, I could tell we were kindred spirits. The man would understand better than most my need to drop all the prim-and-proper speech and protocols to just be myself.
“Well if you excuse me my prince, I will take my leave and see your will done.” Reggie said as he exited the suite with a smile on his face.
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