Free Kingdom's Reign by Chuck Black

welcome His rule.
    Later that day, the Prince walked with me among the remains of the once beautiful gardens of the palace.
    â€œMy King, I am unworthy of the noble mission You have given me … I do not even know how to begin,” I said, feeling humbled.
    He placed an arm around my shoulder. “Cedric, you are more than able. The mission is difficult because your travels will take you throughout the kingdom, but I have the utmost confidence in you. I need you to help My knights establish their rule. For the time being, I have assigned a contingent of men to be your escort. There is still danger.”
    We paused in our walk, and He turned to face me.
    â€œWhere do I start, my Lord?” I asked.
    â€œI want you to travel with the knights who go to the United Cities of Cameria and establish My rule in that region. From there you will know where to go.” He smiled as He read my lack of self-confidence.
    â€œI have assigned a fellow knight to assist you … one with skill and discernment that I have not found in any other.”
    I was pleased and relieved. I would have hoped for William, but his duty lay in Cameria. “Who is he, my King?”
    â€œThe knight arrives by ship this evening. The
Valiant
willdock before sunset.” The Prince resumed walking. We arrived at a spot that looked over the once majestic city of Chessington. I saw the ruin, but I knew He saw the potential splendor.
    The Prince smiled. “Ah Cedric, it is good to be here. My beloved city will be beautiful once again, and the people will find the goodness they have sought for so long.”
    I tried to imagine what He saw but knew that my picture must pale in comparison to the one in the mind of the King.
    I arrived at the docks south of Chessington late in the afternoon to wait for the arrival of my companion. I wondered who the Prince had chosen and if I knew him. Many ships arrived carrying supplies for Chessington, and the
Valiant
was among them. The crew began unloading the cargo, and I immediately recognized the slender form of Talea overseeing the operation. She was occupied with her task and did not seem to notice me, which was fine because I felt entirely awkward around her anyway. There are certain moments in our lives that we wish we could erase, for the embarrassment we live with is uncomfortable. Although Talea was a fascinating woman, she reminded me of such a moment, and I found it difficult to get past it. Yutan was beside her, as usual, helping organize the shipment.
    I waited for the passengers to disembark. Three gentlemen exited the ship and walked toward the city without any hesitation in their step. After some time, I boarded the
Valiant
and sought out her captain to inquire of my assistant. As I approached, he hailed me first.
    â€œSir Cedric, I assume you have come to welcome your assistant?”
    â€œYes, Captain. Can you tell me where he is?”
    He looked a bit puzzled and then smiled as though a thought entered his mind. “If you can be a bit more patient, I will help you in just a moment.”
    By now the unloading of the cargo was complete, and the captain called for Yutan. They had a short discussion to which I was not privy. I began to wonder if something was amiss. The two Silent Warriors approached me.
    â€œSir Cedric, I am sorry for the delay, but Yutan will assist you,” the captain said and returned to his duties in his cabin.
    â€œYutan, it is good to see you.” I reached out my hand. For some strange reason, I felt as though I had also offended Yutan that day I unintentionally insulted Talea back at Leinad’s home, for his demeanor toward me was a bit cool. He obviously felt an obligation to Talea. I had perceived that his role for her was one of personal guard. Perhaps Leinad had asked him to watch over her? I could only guess.
    â€œThe captain tells me you are here to receive your assistant,” he said brusquely.
    â€œThat is