Chapter 22 – Protecting the Royals

2008 began with a new assignment for Harry Potter, something different from the military and clandestine operations he was used to. This time, he had been assigned to a VIP personal security role. The United Kingdom was on high alert due to some high-risk international travel planned for members of the royal family, and the government needed someone with the highest level of competence and trust. Harry Potter, now a respected sergeant in the SAS, was the obvious choice.

Harry was called to a high-level meeting at Buckingham Palace, where he was briefed on his new assignment. He would be tasked with protecting members of the royal family during their travels to high-threat countries, including visits to conflict zones and areas of political instability. Among those protected were Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip, and the young Princes William and Harry.

From his first meeting with the royal family, Harry knew that this would be an experience unlike any other. Although he had been trained to protect high-profile individuals, being so close to the British monarchy required an even greater level of discipline and control.

On the day of his official introduction, Harry was driven to Buckingham Palace, where he met Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. The Queen, always friendly and observant, seemed curious about the young man who had been chosen for such a sensitive mission. She was used to having bodyguards around, but Harry Potter was no ordinary bodyguard.

"So, you're our new bodyguard?" the Queen said with a slight smile. "I'm told you have extensive experience in the SAS."

Harry inclined his head slightly in respect.

"Yes, Your Majesty. I served in the SAS A Squadron for a few years, with missions in several high-risk countries," Harry replied.

Prince Philip, always direct and pragmatic, observed the young sergeant.

"The SAS, huh? And I heard you have a nickname… something like Ghost. Is that true?" Harry smiled slightly, not arrogantly, but aware that his reputation preceded him.

"Yes, sir. That's what some of the guys in the field call me."

The Queen and Prince Philip exchanged a slight glance, surprised but pleased with the choice. They knew they were in good hands.

The most unexpected part of Harry's mission was the connection he ended up forming with the young Princes William and Harry. Both were in their early twenties, still navigating their royal responsibilities and their personal lives. Upon learning that their personal bodyguard was an SAS operator, they were both immediately impressed.

"You're Ghost?" William asked, his eyes shining with admiration. "I've heard of you! Some of the Air Force guys have mentioned your missions."

Harry nodded, remaining humble, even though he knew his name had been circulated quite a bit in the military community.

"I'm glad you've heard good things, sir." Prince Harry, for his part, seemed even more interested in his namesake's story.

"It's incredible to think that you're here with us, after everything you've done in Afghanistan and Iraq. Have you ever considered pursuing a career outside the SAS?"

Harry smiled slightly, appreciating the princes' curiosity, but also understanding that they had no idea of ​​the weight that these operations entailed.

"I feel at home in the SAS. Difficult missions are part of what I do, and I believe that my place is to continue serving, wherever I am needed."

The two princes began to develop a great respect for Harry, not only for his skill and professionalism, but for his calm, collected personality. At times, he seemed more like a friend or mentor than just a bodyguard.

During the first half of 2008, Harry accompanied the royals on several important trips. One of the most dangerous destinations was the Middle East, where Queen Elizabeth was visiting British troops stationed in the region and attending diplomatic meetings.

The logistics of these trips required extreme precision and an in-depth knowledge of local threats. Harry, with his background in intelligence and clandestine operations, played a crucial role in planning safe routes and assessing potential risks.

On one such trip, Harry impressed both the royals and local security teams with his skills. During a meeting in one of the Middle Eastern countries, a potential threat was detected at the last minute. Harry, using his training in surveillance and counter-surveillance, helped divert the royal convoy onto an alternative route, ensuring everyone's safety.

The Queen, upon being informed of the incident, made a point of personally thanking him.

"You are truly a jewel to us, Sergeant Potter. Your work was impeccable," said the Queen, showing a rare sign of affection."

Harry simply nodded, maintaining formality, but internally feeling honored to protect his monarch.

Over time, the royal family grew closer to Harry. Not only because of his professionalism, but because of the way he carried himself, always discreet, but ready to act when necessary. In their free time, William and Harry would invite the sergeant to talk about his experience in the SAS and the challenges he faced.

"It's incredible what you do," said William at one of the dinners Harry was invited to attend. "I knew the SAS was impressive, but your stories… it's hard to believe you're the same man sitting here with us."

Prince Harry added:

"I think you're more than just a Ghost, you're a legend."

Harry smiled, but deep down he knew that all the respect he was receiving didn't change who he was: a soldier who did his job and defended those who couldn't defend themselves.

As 2008 wore on, Harry continued to accompany the royal family on their travels. His reputation as a Ghost preceded him everywhere, but he always remained focused on his duty. He knew that his mission to protect the royals was as important as any covert operation he had ever conducted.

In the end, the mutual respect between Harry and the royals grew. He had become more than just an SAS operator to them—he was someone they trusted, someone they deeply respected. And although Harry was a man of few words, he felt honored to be a part of something so important to his country.

But as he reflected on all of this, he knew that soon he would be called upon for another mission. Whether it was protecting the monarchy or eliminating threats on the battlefield, Harry Potter would always be ready to serve. After all, he was Ghost, and his story was just beginning.