Chapter 22 – Let the Fun Begin

“It would appear my daughter has chosen wisely.” Lady Nightshade said as she approached her daughter, Sloane, and Rita who were trying to keep relatively close to Prince James without making it too obvious.

“Mother!” Mira exclaimed as quietly as she could.

“What, my dear? I was merely stating a fact. It is clear the young prince is very sharp. To gain both High Priest Cendrin’s and Duke Spears’ public support. To bring one to your side is impressive, to win them both over so completely is unheard of. How ever did he manage it?” Lady Nightshade said.

“He was just being himself; he is the crown prince after all, that seemed more than sufficient.” Mira retorted.

Lady Nightshade chuckled, “Hardly.” Then she introduced her friend Lady Firebrand. “Felora, you remember my daughter Mira.”

Lady Firebrand had just walked up. “Yes of course, Minerva, how could I forget your lovely daughter. How are you, Mira? I heard you made Sergeant of one of our prince’s royal knight squads.”

“I am well. Thank you for asking Lady Firebrand. Yes, I am Sergeant over the Stalker squad, one of three squads that report directly to Prince James. It is an honor to serve one such as his majesty. Let me introduce you to some of my squad mates, Rita and Sloane.” Mira waved over to her squad mates, “Rita and Sloane, this is Lady Firebrand and my mother Lady Nightshade.”

“It is an honor to meet you both.” Sloane said.

“Yes, a true honor Lady Firebrand and Lady Nightshade.” Rita answered rather sheepishly.

“Oh, do not be so shy dearie. Regardless of what my daughter may have told you, we won’t bite.” Lady Nightshade greeted.

“Mother!” Mira exclaimed.

“Oh Minerva, stop teasing your daughter.” Lady Firebrand told her friend before turning to Stalker squad. “It is nice to meet you both. Tell me, how is it to serve our young attractive prince?” Lady Firebrand asked Stalker squad.

Sloane excused himself, “My apologies but I must do something for his majesty. Please excuse me ladies.”

Sloane disappeared into the crowd before anyone could even respond.

Rita and Mira weren’t so lucky and began to blush quickly.

Lady Nightshade came to their aid. “Now who is teasing? Felora.”

“My apologies, but you have to admit the prince is quite handsome.” Felora stated before commenting on the redness of the squad member’s cheeks. “It would appear I’ve struck a sensitive chord. Very well, let’s talk about that pompous fool Duke Arcum.”

Lady Nightshade nodded. “He looked rather perplexed at how things unfolded earlier.”

“I thought he might burst a blood vessel.” Lady Firebrand said while chuckling a little.

Rita was surprised to see noble ladies gossiping in such a manner but decided to keep quiet for fear of getting into trouble. ‘I am way out of my depth here.’

Mira leaned over to Rita and spoke softly. “Do not worry my friend. My mother and Lady Firebrand can be trusted. They are few of those in the kingdom that have enough power that they can speak their minds without too much concern.”

“My daughter is correct. We brought it up so you would be aware. As one of the prince’s personal guards you should make a point to pay attention to the reactions of others. It might clue you in to future threats that require watching.” Minerva stated matter-of-factly.

“Wise advice. I thank you, my lady, for your insight.” Rita replied sincerely.

Lady Nightshade and Lady Firebrand both nodded to Rita.

Mira spoke up. “You raised me well mother. I noticed two dukes that seemed to look rather displeased at the turn of events.”

“Yes, Duke Rochester is a bit more cunning than Arcum but do not underestimate the man, he did not rise to be one of the leaders of the noble faction by title alone.” Minerva commented.

“You have your work cut out for you, as does our handsome prince. The noble faction has gained far more power over the last decade. They will make various moves, both of you be ready.” Lady Firebrand stated.

Both Rita and Mira nodded in acknowledgement before giving each other a knowing look. They each knew the uphill political battle their liege would have even with his miraculous achievement of gaining public support from Duke Spears and the Church of Light. They would do everything they could to help him succeed.

——- - - -

“My majesty please let me introduce you to Count Malcum, his wife Countess Francesca, Count Atraities, his wife Countess Priscilla, Baron Whitman, his wife Baroness Rumina.” Duke Spears said as he waved to each person as he introduced them.

“It is an honor your Majesty.” They each repeated as they each gave a slight bow or curtsy.

“It is a pleasure to meet all of you.” Prince James said after meeting everyone. Then turning his attention to Lady Spears.

“Saving the best introduction for last, this is my lovely wife, Lady Spears. Though I’m not sure where Lady Nightshade and Lady Firebrand are. Their influence should not be ignored.” Duke said.

“I believe I saw them talking to Minerva’s daughter dear.” Lady Spears replied to her husband before turning to Prince James.

“Ah, of course.” Duke Spears nodded to his wife.

Lady Spears turned to Prince James.

“It is a pleasure to meet you, your Majesty. I cannot thank you enough for what you have done for my family. To see my son and husband finally reconciled. It warms my heart to see them aligned, finally!” Lady Spears said gratefully, giving her husband a stern look when saying the last part.

“Yes, well I had to be sure. Our duty to the people cannot be ignored.” Duke Spears replied.

Prince James turned to Duke Spears. “I also agree with you duke, our duty to our people must not be forgotten. It is just some of those plans can take many years to come to fruition.”

“Well said, well said indeed.” Duke Spears replied happily.

Turning back to Lady Spears, Prince James continued. “It is my pleasure that I was able to help your family, Lady Spears. From what I have seen and experienced both men are two of the most honorable men I have ever met.” Prince James stated.

“You honor me sir!” Duke Spears said, standing a bit straighter and clearly beaming with appreciation.

“Nonsense. I merely speak the truth.” Prince James replied.

It was time for Prince James to demonstrate some of the knowledge he gained and further grow his faction. “Count Malcum, it is my understanding that your county has been dealing with issues with your crops. I’d like to send you some instructions on how to use night soil to help the crops take better hold and grow larger. If you’re open to it, I can have one of my men send you the information.”

“Really, your majesty? How did you know we were struggling with our crops this season?” Count Malcum asked before muttering to himself, “He has not even been in the capital a month.”

“Hahaha, I told you he was worthy. See! He makes a point to take interest in the well-being of our people!” Duke Spears boisterously laughed as he slapped Count Malcum on the back.

Count Malcum knew the duke was sharp and a force to be reckoned with on his own. When the count received Duke Spear’s missive instructing his allies to pledge their support to this new unknown prince, to say he was shocked would be an understatement. Now, however, he could see a glimpse of why his duke went all in with his support.

His county held some of the more arid lands in the kingdom. It made feeding his people a challenge and they usually had to import food in to provide what he could make available to help feed his people. If the prince was offering a way to help make his county more fertile, he would be a fool to not at least attempt it.

“Quite right, Duke Spears. You once again prove your keen eye for the truth of things.” Count Malcum replied.

Turning to Prince James, Count Malcum bowed his head in deference. “If you do have something that would work, I gladly accept. Thank you, your Majesty for considering my county.”

“Of course, Count Malcum. Since my return I have made a point to learn everything I can about our kingdom. I appreciate how welcoming everyone has been. It is the least I can do to help make their lives better.” Prince James said.

“Everyone except that fool necro who dared to attack you.” Duke Spears practically growled.

“I heard about that. Did they find out who was behind the attack? How did they even know you were returning?” Count Atraities asked.

“Sadly no. It is an unknown. The only thing we do know is that he was hired through an intermediary and for them to even know about my trip to the capital they would’ve needed to know multiple things. First, some inclination of my parents’ intentions to have me return. Second, know the exact route the convoy would take. And perhaps they even had awareness of the prophecy.” Prince James answered.

Sloane approached having heard both the question and the prince’s answer. “Either way it tells us there are some leaks here in the palace. I wish his majesty would give me permission to interrogate the staff to get answers.” Sloane said.

“Ah you will have to excuse Sloane, as one of my personal royal knights they are very dedicated to my safety.” Prince James said.

“That is understandable. You may wish to take Sloane up on the offer to find answers. If someone tried once they will try again.” Baron Whitman chimed in.

“I would have to agree with Baron Whitman. Do not suffer traitors, my prince.” Duke Spears said solemnly.

“Do not worry my friends I have no intention of allowing such things to stand. Plans are underway to get answers. I just will not make loyal people suffer for the acts of some subversives.” Prince James replied.

“Hahaha! Now that is the man I serve!” Duke Spears boisterously claimed.

“Your Majesty Duke Arcum and Rodchester are approaching.” Sloane telepathically warned.

“What are you going on about Duke Spears?” Duke Arcum asked.

With a big smile on his face that did not reach his eyes Prince James explained what they were just talking about. “We were just discussing the foolish attempt someone made to try and kill me on my return trip home. It failed so utterly as it appeared they underestimated both myself and the royal knights.”

“I had not heard of such an attack. Had you Duke Rodchester?” Duke Arcum said.

“No, I had not. You look none worse for it. I doubt it was more than some bandits looking for some coin. Perhaps Young men and old war dogs tend to exaggerate when it comes to retelling of battles. No offense intended Prince James.” Duke Rodchester replied.

Duke Spears grabbed the hilt of his sword tightly, clearly not pleased with how dismissive his two peers were acting towards his liege.

Prince James just continued to smile.

“Tell me Duke Rodchester what would you do to the traitors who were responsible for such a blatant attack?” Prince James asked Duke Rodchester.

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“Traitors must be executed. Examples must be made to deter future problems from occurring.” Duke Rodchester answered matter-of-factly.

Smiling wider as he directed some of his aura in their direction, “I couldn’t agree more with you Duke Rodchester. Treachery shall not be allowed. You will find I’m not as tolerant with such things as my father is.” Prince James said while looking at both Duke Arcum and Duke Rodchester.

After seeing the two men flinch at the barely veiled threat Prince James decided to change tactics and subjects. “Speaking of dealing with threats swiftly, I hear your family’s gryphon riders are some of the key deterrents of those that would foolishly think to invade. Such an amazing and fascinating history. I would welcome the chance to see such majestic creatures and such noble knights in action.” Prince James even shifted his body language, so his focus was solely on Duke Rodchester as he spoke.

“You honor my family’s legacy Prince James. Perhaps a tour and demonstration can be arranged.” Duke Rodchester said with pride.

‘Damn this upstart. Why does he give my family such praise? He is making me kind of like him. How annoying, but I cannot show it, I would lose face among everyone watching us. So much for embarrassing this child.’ Duke Rodchester begrudgingly thought.

“I would be honored Duke Rodchester. Once I have a moment to settle in and find an attaché, I will have them arrange the visit if that is alright with you.” Prince James explained.

“Of course, of course. That is completely understandable, Prince James. I would never turn away the chance to demonstrate the might and pride of my family.” Duke Rodchester replied as he thought, ‘Perhaps I can spin this to gain further support.’

“If you will excuse me but I must speak with a few people. I look forward to future discussions.” Prince James said to Duke Rodchester.

Prince James gave a quick nod to Duke Spears, his wife, and the other nobles gathered around before very purposefully not acknowledging Duke Arcum as he walked away.

“He is turning a nice shade of pink bordering on red. You shunned him well your Majesty.” Sloane telepathically said.

“Keep an eye on him. If he didn’t have something to do with the attack, he most certainly is up to something. Divide and conquer. One gets an olive branch, the other gets the stick. Plus, I don’t like his pompous attitude.” Prince James telepathically replied.

“He’s a high noble, pompous is in the job description.” Sloane telepathically replied.

Prince James just smiled as he made his way to Mira and Rita.

—————

“Good evening, Mira, Rita. Care to introduce me to these lovely angels in front of me? One looks like she could be your sister.” Prince James greeted.

“Oh, you are a charmer aren’t you.” Lady Firebrand said.

“Indeed Felora. And pleasing to the eyes to go along with such eloquent speech.” Lady Nightshade said.

“Mother!” Mira protested.

“Mother? That’s impossible. Did you have her when you were a child?” Prince James asked.

“We are all children until we have kids of our own. It is only then that we truly mature enough to understand our place in the world and find reserves we never knew to fight to keep our family safe. Well, that is if the person is not some self-centered prick.” Lady Nightshade replied.

“Well said.” Prince James replied as he thought, ‘I learned that lesson far too late with my own family.’

“I look forward to the day I can understand that truth for myself. If only I am so lucky in the future to create my own family.” Prince James continued while his thoughts briefly dwelled on his past life and his own children, all of which were now grown. ‘She is not wrong. I thought I knew everything until I had children, then I truly began to understand I knew nothing, yet would gain insight into myself in a way I never thought possible. The world provides no greater mirror I could stare into than my children.’

“It would appear my daughter is a bit flummoxed currently, so let me introduce myself to your Majesty. I am Lady Minerva Nightshade, and this lovely woman is Lady Felora Firebrand.” Lady Nightshade stated as she gave a subtle bow and curtsy.

Prince James took each of their hands and kissed the top of them. “A true pleasure to meet such beautiful and esteemed ladies of the Realm.” Prince James spoke with all sincerity. These two ladies held themselves with grace and femineity. It was hard not to get a nosebleed right then and there.

Lady Firebrand giggled. “He, he, he!” Your majesty is very kind. You make me feel like a young fey girl again.”

“You still look like a young woman to me.” Prince James replied, and he truly meant it. ‘She looks maybe in her early 30s and drop dead gorgeous, they both do. Good to know what Mira will look like when she gets older. My uncle would always advise me to look at a lady’s mother, it gave a glimpse of what your future held if you chose to marry the girl. Still great advice uncle.’ Prince James sent a silent thank you to his uncle for being like another father to him.

That thought caused a pang of pain in the prince’s heart as he missed his family terribly. ‘If he only knew how much I appreciated everything he did for me growing up. Re-focus, do not dwell on what you cannot change right now.’

“Magic my dear prince. Both Felora and I are strong in magic, it both delays our aging quite a bit and rejuvenates us.” Lady Nightshade replied.

‘Good to know there is such a nice perk with magic. Errrr, wait a minute, did Felora say she was fey?! How do I ask about that one?’ Prince James thought.

Deciding he would figure out how to work that into the conversation somehow, Prince James decided at that point to get to know these ladies far more. “Good to know that is one of the benefits of magic. I’m curious, are you both enjoying the ball? It is my first one after all, and I’d like to know how it rates.” Prince James asked.

“Ah of course. I briefly forgot; you hold yourself so well for one who has not been in court before today.” Lady Nightshade said before continuing. “These events are usually quite the same, though today has been far more entertaining. Duke Arcum’s face has either turned red or held a look of shock multiple times, even a few moments where both were plain for all to see. Quite impressive a feat for one who has only begun to swim in these waters.”

“Yes, I had heard you tend to be one of the more informed nobles at court.” Prince James commented.

“Yes, well one just needs to be observant to be well informed. Though I do take my observations a bit farther. Like the fact that your shadow Sloane has been rather quiet most of the event yet you two seem rather in sync.” Lady Nightshade said casually.

“My liege is a master communicator. It makes my job even easier. I would however be remised if I did not comment on how impressive your ‘observations’ tend to be Lady Nightshade. One would be a fool to not realize how invasive those ‘observations’ can be.” Sloane chimed in.

One of Lady Nightshade’s eyebrows rose which was all she gave away as a reaction to Sloane’s comment.

“Sloane! I am not sure what you mean by that comment, but I will remind you that you are speaking to a Lady of the court and my mother! Tred carefully.” Mira said coldly with clear anger in her voice.

Mira preferred more direct approaches and did not like subtlety in conversation even though her stealth, subterfuge, and dagger skills are some of the highest seen in the kingdom thanks to the training from her mother.

Sloane nodded to Mira. “My apologies Lady Nightshade. I meant no disrespect.”

“No, you just wanted me to know that you are well aware how much I keep an eye on what goes on in this kingdom.” Lady Nightshade stated.

Prince James felt it was time to step in at this point. “Being so observant is a critical requirement in not only surviving but thriving in this kingdom.”

“Quite right you are your majesty. It is good to see one so young understanding that truth. We have an obligation to be as well informed as possible and use our own mind to determine what best course of action should come from such knowledge.” Lady Nightshade stated.

“Of that we are completely aligned. Which brings me to my ask Lady Nightshade. Should you be so inclined to share those observations I would appreciate you keeping Mira and Sloane informed. As I am sure you already know, your daughter Mira leads my Stalker squad. Their primary mission, behind watching my back, is information gathering and missions that require a stealthier approach. Anything that can keep my squads protected or give them an edge is always appreciated ladies.” Prince James explained.

“Ha, ha, ha” Lady Firebrand’s laugh was like a pleasing summer breeze. “He has you there Minerva. I say we go all in. It is clear this prince is both good looking and intelligent. A very attractive combination would you not say? He, he, he.”

“Lady Firebrand!” Mira said without realizing it she was getting more and more uncomfortable as they talked about how attractive Prince James is. ‘Why am I getting so upset anytime someone compliments Prince James? I mean look at how dreamy his… focus Mira, focus!’ Mira tried to refocus her thoughts.

“She is merely speaking the truth daughter. This prince is indeed smart. He ties together your safety to his objectives. Whether that is intentional or not, I cannot ignore the masterful way that has been played. I have done something similar many times in the past. I can support a man...” catching herself, she cleared her throat “I can support the future ruler of our kingdom. Very well Prince James, you have our full support, our resources are at your disposal. Please see to it that my daughter remains as safe as possible.” Lady Nightshade stated.

“Mother! I am his personal royal knight, it is my duty to protect him, to lay my life...” Mira was interrupted by Prince James.

“Done. I am rather fond of Mira and the rest of my royal knights. It is my job to protect them as much as it is theirs to protect me. To be clear, I do not treat the lives of those I care about frivolously.”

Mira and Rita both turned pink at Prince James’s words. ‘I am supposed to be protecting him. Why is it I like it so much when he gets protective over me?’ Mira thought.

“That is what I like to hear, a royal who cares for their people. I really am fond of you dear Prince James.” Lady Firebrand said in a way that made James want to sweep her off her feet.

Shifting his focus, Prince James decided it was time to broach the subject he was curious about. “Your family name, it means masters of fire and other battle magic, correct?” Prince James asked.

“Yes. I am part of the Summer Court fey. Fire is one of the best elements to use to devastate your enemies and bring down destructive power to the battlefield. Your father and uncle were some of my best students. If what Lady Rollara said is true, you will most likely be in my class Prince James.” Lady Firebrand explained.

“Come again?” Prince James asked.

“That all depends on you.” Lady Firebrand deadpanned.

Prince James immediately picked up on the joke and was trying to figure out a way to bring his thoughts back on track when Lady Firebrand continued. “You did not know I am one of the teachers at the Royal Academy? I am headmistress of magical combat. I teach the top Battle Magic class. Usually, first years aren’t included unless they score exceptionally well on their entrance exam. So, if you did as well as Lady Rollara says, I am sure we will be seeing much more of each other soon.”

“I look forward to it Lady Firebrand. Now did you say you taught my father and uncle?” Prince James replied.

“Oh yes, your uncle was not as gifted with fire as your father but the two of them were unstoppable on the battlefield. Add in your mother’s healing ability keeping their party alive and they set records during their years at the academy.”

“Good to know.” Prince James said more to himself than anyone else.

Just then a small entourage of pretty and finely dressed girls in their late teens to early twenties approached. At their head was one of the most beautiful girls Prince James had ever seen in this life and his previous one. She had blue hair, wore an elegant blue dress that matched both her blue hair and gorgeous blue eyes. The dress seemed to accentuate her slender but curvy figure.

‘Focus, focus James, no nose bleeds, must control body.’ Prince James tried to concentrate and remain calm. He had met many beautiful women in both his previous life and this one, and usually he could keep his biological interests in check.

‘Her charisma must be exceptionally high as well. I will have to make sure not to rise to the occasion.’ Prince James internally chucked at his internal joke which seemed to help him reign in his control.

“Lady Nightshade and Lady Firebrand. It is an honor to meet you.” The girls all bowed as they greeted the Ladies.

“Ria Rodchester at your service. This is Leah of house Moore, Nikki of house Orelia, both pledged in service of the Rodchester duchy.” Ria finished her introduction of her entourage.

“What has you interrupting our time with my daughter and the crown prince?” Lady Nightshade quipped.

“My apologies. We just wished to introduce ourselves to Lady Firebrand. All three of us scored high in our magical aptitude and will be in Lady Firebrand’s class this year. We figured we would be remised if we did not introduce ourselves during the ball.” Ria answered.

“Sucking up cannot start early enough, is that it?” Lady Nightshade commented.

Mira and Rita quietly chuckled. “He, he, he.”

Ria, Leah, and Nikki all blushed.

“Come now Lady Nightshade, they were just excited to meet their teacher. Had I known Lady Firebrand was my teacher I would’ve made a point to introduce myself too.” Prince James interjected.

Mira went from chuckling to a frown on her face instantly. She did not like Prince James coming to this manipulative harlots’ aid.

The girls used this opportunity to excuse themselves. Ria ignored the help Prince James offered and stuck her nose up at him as she walked away. “If you will excuse us. I believe my father wanted to speak with me.”

Both Leah and Nikki mouthed the words ‘thank you’ to Prince James as they left to catch up with Ria who was most certainly walking away quickly.

“A gentleman coming to the defense of a woman, how honorable. I think my queen would like to meet you some day.” Lady Firebrand stated.

“Do not be fooled, that girl is quite smart. I doubt she only came to introduce herself to Felora. She is as cunning as her father and from what I hear more adept at magic than he is. A dangerous combination.” Lady Nightshade stated.

“But your comment threw her for a loop, which is exactly what you intended Lady Nightshade.” Prince James responded.

“Oh, I like him. He sees right through your ploys and word games Minerva. Not many are so skilled to do so. Yes, I must introduce you to my queen one of these days.” Lady Firebrand giggled.

Lady Nightshade joined her friend in giggling. It was like music to Price James ears. “He, he, he, sharp wits indeed. Oh, I like him too. Perhaps age is just a number.”

“Mother! What has gotten into you!” Mira said in complete shock.

“It’s alright Mira. They are both just trying to get under my skin with a little teasing. It is an excellent tactic to disarm someone. Lady Firebrand, you have now mentioned your queen twice. I am confused, I thought you held title here in our kingdom.”

“Ah, yes. I can see why you are so confused, my young crown prince. For fey, no matter what kingdom they reside in, they still hold loyalty to the court from which they originate from. When the Summer court was cast out of Avalon and we lost our king and home, we all pledged a binding oath to remain bound to Queen Titania and our lost king.”

“Lost king?”

“Oberon. He died. It is a painful racial memory. Worst for Summer fey, we are strong in our emotions and gut feelings. When we feel, we feel deeper than the mortal races. His loss is a scar on the psyche of all our race, those present and passed down to those after, like a curse we cannot remove. We rarely discuss it so please do not ask to ruin my evening.” Lady Firebrand said, her previous joyful mood clearly beginning to fade.

“Perish the thought. Perhaps this is a good time for me to attend to the other guests. Ladies thank you for such a welcoming conversation, we must visit each other again. If you’ll excuse me.” Prince James said before bowing his head slightly.

“We both would welcome that your majesty.” Lady Nightshade said while putting her arm around her friend.

Prince James had much to ponder as he made his way towards LT Simmons who seemed very uncomfortable while in conversation with his father and mother.

‘It appears I need to learn more about the history of the fey here. I only know of the stories from back home and random warnings I would get from my family about making deals with forest spirits. Are the fey common here? I wonder if one of the libraries has anything on their history. It bares exploring.’ Prince James pondered as he made a straight line for LT. Simmons.

Just before arriving at LT Simmons and his parents he sent a telepathic message to Sloane. “I think Ria is carrying a magical artifact, perhaps one that stimulates or distracts a man. It’s the only explanation for my sudden difficulty concentrating. I was not planning for such things. Perhaps a mistake on my part and not one I will be making again. See what you can find out.”

“As you command your highness!” Sloane replied before going to investigate.