King Alexander leaned forward at his round table, his eyes scanning through the reports and ledgers that his advisors had laid out before him. With a furrowed brow and a clenched jaw, he ran his finger down the columns of numbers, his eyes darted back and forth across the pages.

“The gold reserves seem to be less abundant than I had expected,” he said to Old Croll, who was standing across from him. Old Croll was an elder diplomat with a long white beard, wise eyes, and a kind smile. He had a gentle demeanor and a soothing voice.

“And it seems our military expenditures are exceeding our projections. We must endeavor to achieve a balance in our budget without compromising the safety of our kingdom. What say you, Old Croll? Might we explore potential solutions while also ensuring the well-being of our people?”

Old Croll nodded in agreement. “Verily, Your Majesty, ‘tis an astute observation. Mayhap we could embark upon a quest to discover novel trade pacts that shall augment our coffers. Or we may deliberate on the prospect of abating the expenses of the court and the royal household.”

General Pikener said, “Your Majesty, another avenue to consider is the potentiality of levying taxes, perchance through imposing a bank tax. Although it may not find favor with the populace, such measures might relieve our financial predicament.”

King Alexander closed the financial reports, his fingers lingering on the pages for a moment before finally setting them aside. He reached for the military reports and scanned them for some time.

“It heartened me to learn that my father left me a formidable army,” King Alexander conveyed to General Pikener in a thoughtful tone. “I also discern areas that demand refinement. May I request a detailed report on the army’s strengths and weaknesses?”

“As you command, Your Majesty,” replied General Pikener with a respectful bow. “I shall compose a detailed report that provides a comprehensive overview of our present military status, besides proffering suggestions for its betterment.”

Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

“Excellent. I eagerly expect the opportunity to examine it,” said King Alexander. "I prefer the truth, even when it carries ill tidings, and I make sure to duly recognize those who bring such news," he said, closing the military reports with decisive snaps and pushing them aside.

He reached for the next set of reports, his brows furrowing as he scanned through them. King Alexander turned to Old Croll and General Pikener, concern etched on his face. “My dear gentlemen, the reports present a stark reality - our people are enduring hardship. Our farmers are struggling to make ends meet, and there have been troubling reports of bandit raids and monster attacks on the outskirts of our kingdom. I implore thee, what measures can we undertake to ease their sufferings?”

Old Croll stroked his beard thoughtfully. “Aye, Your Majesty, your counsel is wise. Mayhap we should send succor to the beleaguered farmers, who toil under the yoke of hardship. We may reinforce our borders by increasing the frequency of patrols, to thwart the depredations of malefactors and monsters alike.”

General Pikener nodded in agreement. “I wholeheartedly agree, Your Majesty. We may also consider enlisting the services of valiant adventurers and skilled mercenaries to lend their aid to our endeavors.”

“If there is a way, it must be done,” King Alexander said. “I shall rely on thy deep understanding of tactics, strategy, and logistics to provide guidance on this matter.”

Old Croll nodded in agreement. “Truly, Your Majesty, General Pikener hath rendered yeoman’s service to the realm for nigh on many a year, and his loyalty to his Lord is resolute.

“That being said, ere we embark on any further action, we must concentrate on strengthening our council,” said the king. “We shall enlist new advisors and provide them with comprehensive training to serve our cause. We require a spy master to keep watch on our adversaries and a steward to manage our finances.”

“Thou shalt require a court jester, whose jests and japes shall bring mirth and levity to the court. And by thy side shall stand the bravest and most valiant champion of the realm, whose prowess in arms is unmatched,” said Old Croll.

He paused for a moment, deep in thought, before continuing, “Thou must choose the most suitable candidates wisely, for they shall be my closest advisors and confidants. Bring them forth to me.”

“At your service, Your Majesty,” said General Pikener. “We have already had the privilege of compiling a register of prospective candidates for the positions of spy master and steward, Your Majesty. With your leave, we shall dispatch messengers without delay to summon them.”