Chapter 15

A week before the commencement of classes, James entrusted Bahrian with the task of dispatching a group of knights to deliver urgent news to the Queen in the Capital City.

Alongside the message, they were instructed to request the aid of financial and historical experts for Heisenport.

The knights embarked on their mission immediately, riding tirelessly until they reached the borders of Heisenplains.

As they approached the imposing gates of the castle, their horses' hooves drummed a rhythmic beat against the ground, heralding their arrival.

With a sense of urgency, they called out for entrance, their voices cutting through the stillness of the night.

The Gate Keepers, alerted by the commotion, swiftly swung open the gates, revealing the flickering torchlight that danced across their faces.

With a wave of recognition, the Gate Keepers allowed the knights to pass, their eyes lingering on the identification plates that adorned their armor.

These symbols of their allegiance and rank spoke volumes, granting them passage without hesitation.

Making their way through the labyrinthine streets of the Main City, they sought refuge in a nearby inn, their weary bodies yearning for rest.

As the first light of dawn broke over the horizon, painting the sky in hues of pink and gold, the knights resumed their journey.

With determined strides, they approached the grand gates of the Palace, their footsteps echoing in the empty courtyard.

Their request for an audience with the Queen was met with solemn nods from the Royal Guards, who ushered them inside with due reverence.

Standing before the Queen, their voices steady and their resolve unwavering, the knights delivered their message with utmost sincerity and respect.

Their words echoed through the Throne Room, carrying the weight of their mission and the hopes of their homeland.

Upon hearing the Knights' reports, the Queen was both surprised and impressed by the proactive actions of the 3rd prince.

Without delay, she swiftly organized the resources requested. "Prepare everything as His Highness requested," she commanded her advisors.

In a flurry of activity, the Queen arranged for the necessary personnel and funds. "Summon the scribes and craftsmen," she instructed her attendants, ensuring that each individual brought their unique skills to aid Heisenport.

"And send for Chancellor Sulivan immediately," she added, recognizing the importance of financial expertise.

With efficiency, the Queen prepared 1.3 million gold coins, a substantial sum to bolster Heisenport's resources.

"We must support our territories," she declared, reaffirming her commitment to the kingdom's welfare.

As the preparations neared completion, the Queen issued another decree.

"Gather a hundred knights to escort the goods and personnel to Heisenport," she commanded. "Provide them with horses and carriages for swift travel."

Amidst the bustle of preparations, the Queen's decisive actions spoke volumes of her dedication to the prosperity of Heisenberg.

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Two weeks had passed since the dispatch of the knights to the capital, and James found himself immersed in the dual responsibilities of managing the region's affairs and teaching classes. As dawn approached, a commotion stirred at the city walls. Guards stationed there spotted figures descending from the mountains, torches in hand, signaling the imminent arrival of visitors.

"Jared!!" a fellow guard called out excitedly. "Run to the Lord's Castle and report the arrival of some people! Tell them there are incoming riders and carriages! Hurry!"

Jared wasted no time, his breath labored as he raced towards the Lord's Castle to deliver the news. Bursting into the castle chambers, he gasped out his report to James, who listened intently, his anticipation mounting.

Upon hearing the news, James's excitement surged. His request to the queen had been answered, and experts were on their way to the city. Without delay, he sought out Frederick, and together they ascended to the city walls to observe the approaching caravan. Their hearts brimmed with hope and expectation as they eagerly awaited the arrival of the knights and the individuals provided by the queen.

As the sun dipped below the horizon and the stars began to twinkle in the night sky, the descending figures drew nearer to the city gates, their torches illuminating the path ahead. The rhythmic sound of hooves echoed in the air, signaling the approach of the mounted travelers.

From atop the city walls, James and Frederick observed the approaching group, their anticipation growing with each passing moment. Suddenly, three knights rode forth from the group, their voices ringing out with authority.

"We are the knights tasked to escort the people you requested, along with the gifts of the queen! Please open the gates!" declared the head knight, Captain Gaspar.

Upon hearing this, Frederick swiftly issued commands to the guards stationed at the city gates, instructing them to open the gates and welcome the arriving party. At the same time, arrangements were made for their lodging within the city walls, ensuring their comfort and hospitality during their stay.

Frederick's swift commands echoed through the city as guards hurried to comply, opening the gates wide to welcome the arriving party. James decided that they hold a welcoming party, and so preparations for the celebration were in full swing, with the plaza and the Lord's Castle adorned with colorful decorations, illuminating the night with a festive glow.

As the guests arrived, including the knights from the capital and the residents of Aedenberg, the atmosphere brimmed with excitement and merriment. The knights wasted no time in enjoying the hospitality, indulging in food and drink to their hearts' content.

Among them, Captain Gaspar, with his imposing presence and rugged appearance, commanded attention as he regaled the gathering with tales of his valorous exploits in battle. Seated at the head table alongside James, the 3rd Prince, Frederick, and Bahrian, Captain Gaspar's stories captivated the audience, evoking admiration and respect.

As the night wore on, the group engaged in lively conversation, sharing their experiences and reflecting on the growth and prosperity of Heisenberg. They raised their glasses in a toast to the future of the kingdom, united in their vision for a brighter tomorrow.

As the night gave way to dawn, James convened once more in the grand hall of the Lord's Castle, gathering the selected professors, craftsmen, and experts. With a sense of purpose, he outlined their roles, emphasizing their importance as the educators of the first batch of students. James entrusted them with the task of imparting not just knowledge but also their own experiences and insights to the eager learners.

Each member of the assembly listened intently to James's instructions, nodding in agreement and understanding the gravity of their responsibilities. Among them, Sullivan, the Chancellor, expressed a keen interest in teaching mathematics, eager to share his expertise with the students. James, impressed by Sullivan's enthusiasm, presented him with a specially compiled book titled "Basic Numbers: Addition and Subtraction," symbolizing the start of their educational journey.

With orientations completed, the professors and experts assumed their respective duties, ready to guide and inspire the young minds entrusted to their care. James, now relieved of teaching duties, turned his attention to other matters concerning the territory, confident in the capable hands of his appointed educators.