Reggie left LT Simmons and I in my suite. I turned to LT Simmons and asked, “Hey Lieutenant, what’s your first name?”

LT Simmons looked at me with a mix of shock and a purely dumbfounded expression. ‘Have I really never told him my first name?’

“My apologies your majesty. I did not realize I never told you my first name. My full name is Sir Lexington Arthur Simmons, second son to Lord Simmons Count of Leffingwell. My mother calls me Arthur, but my friends call me Lex. It would do me an honor, if your majesty would also call me Lex.... or Simmons is of course fine. I mean.... I would never presume to tell your majesty...”

I raised my hand to cut off his rambling. This was so unlike him. “Why are you rambling? I’ve never seen you act like this.”

LT Simmons took a deep breath and then replied, “My apologies your highness. I just realized that I never formally introduced myself to you. In court such an act is considered extremely disrespectful. I just never realized... you just always accepted me and frankly my father was always frustrated with my lack of decorum. That is part of the reason I joined the Royal Knights...I...”

I raised my hand again. “Seriously man! For the love of all that is holy calm down! I am not upset.”

LT Simmons seemed to visibly relax some at my words.

I continued, “Look I asked because I realized I didn’t know your first name and didn’t quite feel right calling you Lieutenant all the time. It felt too impersonal. I don’t take offense. Frankly we met out on the road, there has always been something happening and frankly I can’t stand all the uptight nonsense anyway. Now I don’t know that I’ll call you Lex, reminds me of a villain from a story I read, but give it time Simmons. I expect you to be my right hand, especially when we start adventuring. I just have to get through this stupid royal ball, and we can actually go out and explore. I’ve been locked away long enough.”

“I think I understand your majesty. Though I don’t know what story you’re referring to.” Simmons replied.

“Please stop calling me ‘your majesty’ when it’s just us. Call me James or if that won’t work Prince if you must. Now why don’t you tell me about the county you are from.” I stated.

So, we sat there talking. Simmons told me about the county he grew up in and his family. It was clear he was a big teddy bear who deeply loved his mother and the people from where he grew up in. The county was one of the more remote counties of the kingdom but no less full of people. It was rather enjoyable and helped to pass the time. The girls were the first to return but they didn’t get too far into the suite when Reggie came bursting in.

“Are you guys done already?” Mira asked.

“Can we see the list?” Kira asked.

“My apologies for the intrusion your majesty.” Reggie said as he burst into the room. Trailing behind him were a small group of people I assumed were the new members of my personal royal knights. They all bowed, including Reggie.

“If it pleases your majesty, I would like to introduce you to your new personal royal knights and have them give their pledge of loyalty.” Reggie said while kneeling and his head down.

“Get up Captain. For heaven’s sake, all of you get up. I would rather stare into everyone’s eyes when they give me their oath.” I said, frustrated at all this formality. I wouldn’t diminish their commitment or honor, but I wanted to look each of them in the face to make sure we both understood the gravity of it.

‘I think Reggie did this just to mess with me or to get me to accept this part of my position.’

I looked at those assembled and spoke. “I have chosen each of you to serve as my personal royal knights. Each of you brings specific skills or traits to the table that this team will need. With that said our team is more than the sum of its parts.”

I paused to make sure they were all understanding what I was saying. “I have been far removed from court and our kingdom’s affairs for far too long. There is much I wish to accomplish and little time to do it in.”

Noticing some of the looks towards Sloane as my eyes swept the room, I took everyone’s measure before I continued. “Some of you wonder why you were chosen, and I can see in some of your eyes you wonder why others here have been chosen. Trust in me as your prince, I see much in each of you. If you wish to be part of my honor guard step forward and give your oath.”

One by one, they all bent their knee to me and gave their oath.

“I shall be your honor guard, your shield against shield, arms against arms, your eyes and ears. This I give for the end of my days or until the prince releases us!”

Each one I accepted. After that impromptu ceremony was done, I turned to Reggie.

“Thank you, Captain, for once again helping me achieve my goals so expeditiously.”

Reggie bowed his head and said, “It is my duty, but in this case, it is also an honor to serve your majesty. I will take my leave and return to my other duties.”

After acknowledging Reggie, he left the suite. I turned to Simmons and the rest of my honor guards. “All of you already know Lieutenant Simmons. He is the leader of my personal royal knights and your commanding officer. You will work with him on any issues that may arise, and he will give you the schedule. With that said, know that I am still adjusting to a life at court so bear with my informality. Also feel free to come to me with any questions etc. Lastly, before I turn it over to LT. Simmons, I expect each of you to speak your mind when it is just us, I will not have lives risked because you were scared to speak your mind to me.”

I turned to Simmons, “Lieutenant, they are all yours.”

LT Simmons smiled, “Alright you bunch of pansies! Listen up! I’ll say this once. It is an honor to be selected as a personal royal knight! As such, do not, I repeat do not, dishonor your post by bringing any shame to our prince!”

I just internally groaned. ‘Simmons loves to read them the riot act. He really should be a Drill-Sergeant.’

Simmons continued, “Mira will be promoted to the rank of Sergeant and lead the first squad in my absence.”

I smiled; Mira looked stunned as people congratulated her. Reggie, Simmons, and I had discussed this promotion as part of our selection process. Having a clear chain of command for each squad was important.

Simmons continued, “Kira shall also be promoted to the rank of Sergeant and lead her own squad.”

Several people congratulated Kira as she too was stunned.

Simmons did not stop there. “Sergeant Callus Thorn shall be given lead of the second squad when I am not present. When on mission or in combat each of you will be responsible for a specific squad.”

Simmons paused to make sure everyone was paying attention, so they clearly understood their chain of command. “Mira will lead the Stalkers. This squad will focus on scouting, information gathering, and quick strike missions. The team will include herself, Sloane, Leonard Phillips, and Rita.”

Mira seemed a bit surprised to have Sloane on her team.

“Callus Thorn will lead the Bulwark Defenders. Their focus will be primarily on defense and breaking enemy lines. In other words, they bring the pain to our enemies. This team will include Callus, Cooper Cavaliere, Taka Anella, and Muro.”

A few nods and smiles could be seen on the squad team members. It was clear they were thrilled to be assigned that role.

LT Simmons looked at me, after giving him a head nod, he continued. “Last but not least, is our Tempest Squad lead by Kira. This team will focus on magic and support. They shall include Kira, Anara Rane the frost battle mage, Aeria Chemos the wind mage, with Rita joining depending on mission.

Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.

“I will work with each of you on a rotation for ensuring Prince James’ protection. I expect a member from each squad to be present at all times. We should have enough coverage to protect his majesty and make sure people get plenty of rest. Each of you get with your squad leader. Mira and Kira please coordinate with each other regarding Rita’s schedule. Dismissed!”

With those last words each squad huddled together in some part of my giant conference room. I pulled Simmons to me with a wave. Simmons spoke softly to keep the conversation between us. “Yes, your majesty?”

I gave him a look.

“I mean Prince James.”

I shook my head and focused on the reason I grabbed his attention. “Make sure Mira understands my expectations regarding both Sloane and Leonard. In fact, make a point to pull her aside and explain some of what we discussed.”

“As you command my prince.”

Sure, I could give the orders directly, and having a personal guard allowed for some flexibility in command structure, but a clear chain of command was critical. My plan was to leverage my knights to help lead in future battles and special missions. They would not be as successful if they lacked the discipline now, at least that was what my gut was telling me, and I always trust my gut!

Simmons walked over to Mira’s squad and pulled her aside. After watching for a while, I called Mira’s squad. “Stalker squad! Please approach!”

Rita looked over as she was in conversation with Tempest squad. I waved to her to stay there. Mira remained with LT Simmons as we already discussed the conversation, I wanted to have with the two remaining members of her squad. ‘Sure, chain of command is important, but I have specific plans for Sloane. After they moved to where I was standing in the conference room they saluted and spoke up.

“Yes, your Majesty! How may we serve?!” Both Sloane and Leonard said in unison as they saluted fists to their hearts.

“I appreciate the zeal but it’s all good guys, at ease.” I looked at Sloane and continued, “Sloane, it is my understanding that you have some contacts in the seedier parts of society or shall we just say less than reputable.”

“Yes, your majesty.” Sloane replied with a bit of concern in his voice. He was used to being looked down on for having such connections.

“Good.” I said which caused the man to have a look of surprise.

“Good, your majesty?” Sloane asked a bit confused.

Ignoring his confusion, I explained my request. “I need you to reach out to those contacts and put feelers out. As you were there, you know we were attacked on the way back to the capital. Someone must know something, even if but a whisper. After that is done, bring Mira in to the continue the investigation. It is time we quietly started to make our own inquiries. Understood?”

The two Stalkers answered as one, “Yes your majesty!”

Looking at Sloane, “Oh, and Sloane, I want a private discussion with you later. Others may have concerns about your loyalties based on your associations, but I see them as a boon. We will talk later.”

Turning to Leonard Phillips, “Now Leonard, my understanding is you are just about average in everything.”

Leonard looked downtrodden. It was clear the man was used to being put down for his average abilities.

I spoke up loudly so that not only Sloane, but others could hear what I was about to say. “I think your talents are remarkable!”

“Remarkable, your grace?” Leonard asked in confusion.

“Yes Remarkable! You are average in every skill! Others may have focused on the first part of that statement your whole life, but I see the later half! To be able to perform each skill no matter if it be healing or stealth makes you the most well rounded and useful for any situation that may arise! You worked hard to become a royal knight and I know you will work even harder as one of my personal royal knights!” I continued to project my voice across the conference room. ‘Chain of command is important but so is a bit of morale boost.’

“Oh yes, your grace! I will serve you most loyally! Thank you for recognizing my skillset! I will help wherever you need me!” Leonard replied as he bowed deeply to me.

“I know you will Leonard.” I answered before turning to the rest of my knights.

That little show caught all their attention. “Sadly, before any of you leave, we all must be fitted for dress uniforms for the ball by Mrs. Teege. I apologize ahead of time for that upcoming joy.” I groaned.

Some chuckles were heard across the conference room. Most of the knights knew such things were expected of them and appreciated my lack of joy in such formalities.

Shortly after my statement Mrs. Teege and a few of her seamstress apprentices seemed to manifest out of nowhere as if called into being.

Everyone saw the seamstress, and a few joined me in groans, others seemed delightedly be getting dressed up for the ball by Mrs. Teege.

“I will hear none of those groans! You are representing the royal family and as such, you will dress accordingly! If I hear another groan, I will see to it you my needle just might slip a few… or several times.” Mrs. Teege said with a smile.

‘Man, that woman is scary, she is deadly with that needle and her stealth skill has to be pretty high to appear so quietly.’

Apparently, Mrs. Teege was known for her tailoring skill and was highly sought after by nobles and rich merchants. I decided to put a smile on my face and consider myself blessed to have someone so talented in her craft helping me and my people. I would just hide my inner groan at being poked and prodded, especially after that threat.

———— - - - - - - - - - - - - ————-

It took her a few hours, but the woman and her staff were efficient. I only got poked like twelve times, I am pretty sure one for each groan she heard that I just couldn’t hold in.

“Thank you, Mrs. Teege, for once again helping make this happen. Your skill is unmatched.” I said after her and her people were done taking everyone’s measurements.

“Of course, dearie, of course. Think nothing of it. I am glad to help the royal family. All of you have been through so much having to be separated for so long.” Mrs. Teege replied in a motherly tone.

“You are too kind and are the sweetest lady I know.” I replied.

Mrs. Teege blushed and waved my words off as she shoo’d away her apprentices. “You almost make me feel bad poking you, almost. It is good for a prince to represent our kingdom in the proper attire.”

“I understand, be patient with me, my lady. I am still learning.” I answered.

Mrs. Teege smiled. “Of course, your majesty, of course. Now on to important matters, your outfits! I already had designs in mind after I witnessed your exploits on our expedition to bring you home. Luckily, I was present and inspired by your deeds, so much is already prepared. I will have everything sent over tomorrow.” She said right before leaving the suite.

‘I don’t know how that woman does it. Magic must be involved. She means well and kind of reminds me of my grandmother. Short, sweet, but she would broker no talk back from anyone.’ I thought fondly as she left.

Shifting gears, it was time to put other plans in motion. “Stalker squad please approach.”

It didn’t take long for Mira and team to get closer. “Mira, now that all of that is done, your squad has orders. Make it happen...” I turned to look at Sloane, “and Sloane I’m counting on you.”

Mira’s squad put fists over their heart, bowed their heads, and replied in unison, “Yes, your majesty!” Before they too turned on their heels and left the suite.

Turning to Simmons I said, “Lieutenant, it’s been a long and eventful day. I’m going to retire for the evening while you finish working through the duty schedule.”

“As you wish Prince James.” Simmons replied.

Turning to the remaining knights, “Again welcome to my personal royal knights. I’m glad all of you are part of the team and thank you for accepting this post.”

Seeing their positive reactions, I left the conference room and entered my private bedchamber. I could hear LT Simmons’ voice carrying from the conference room. “The prince is never to be disturbed when he is in his private bedchamber. I have sensed powerful wards protecting him so do not get any ideas of sneaking in!”

‘Interesting they can sense my wards. Good to know. Thank you, Simmons, for keeping the newbies away.’ I thought as I locked the door and put up the very wards he mentioned. That done, I wasted no time and entered my Demiplane.

As tired as I might be, spending time in my demiplane was a godsend. The time dilation was becoming more and more of a boon, allowing me to do far more than I normally would, all while devoid of prying eyes and ears.

Once inside my fortress, one of my creations brought me some of the fruit from the various trees and plants within the demiplane. Some came from seeds I had saved from the food I’d received, some from the garden in the valley, lastly a few were from plants I created using my allotted points as they recharged. The time dilation allowed for these trees to grow and blossom in record time.

I sampled the various fruits etc. while watching my creations go about their tasks. As I sampled the food items, I found they all came out quite good. I marveled, thinking of my past life and how I literally had the opposite of a green thumb. ‘So glad I picked up some druid and nature magic skills.’

As I walked, I came upon my rather large storehouse. It was coming along; I could clearly see various ores and bars stacked within. Several of my minions… “Man they do remind me of minions as they go about their assigned tasks. Huh? Well, ‘back to work.’ ‘Alright then.’ ‘ZugZug’ hahaha.” I laughed at my internal blizzard game reference.

‘Man, I have got to get some friends I can share these awesome references. I miss my friends.’ I thought before lightly slapping my cheeks to bring me out of my brief melancholy. “Nothing that can be helped yet, focus on what is in front of you.”

Turning back to watch, my minions were busy delivering ore from the mines, or coming and taking ore to the forge, or bringing back bars of metal. They had an efficient system going.

“Huh? I hadn’t told them to smelt the tougher and far more rare ore such as platinum, mithril, adamantine, or oricalcum. However, seeing those bars of iron, steel, copper, silver, and gold is making my inner Scrooge scream for joy! Maybe I should have them try their hand at smelting the platinum?” I said out loud in thought.

I turned to them and said out loud, “Good job everyone! Keep up the good work!”

They seemed to groan in response, but they slightly picked up speed and I got a wave of joy coming off them.

“Never is a bad idea to express your appreciation to those that help you.” I said to myself as I looked at the growing pile. There was much I could do with these resources when the time came.

After inspecting the storehouse and forge I made my way to the training area. As tired mentally as I might feel, I could not be lax in my own training. Once again, I did what I could to push my body and mind before calling it a night.

————— - - - - - - - - - - - - —————