Chapter 50

The grand Prince Throne Hall of Dragonsden City buzzed with anticipation. Officials, nobles, and distinguished citizens gathered, their eyes fixed on the dais where Tatsuo, the Vanguard General, sat upon his ornate throne. The morning sun streamed through the hall's stained-glass windows, casting a kaleidoscope of colors across the assembled crowd.

Before the throne, five figures knelt, their postures radiating respect and loyalty. Chief Major Stunny, Chief Major Amick, Chief Major Jalzub, Mayor Faelar Stonehand of Riverbend Town, and Commander Kelt of Greywall Law Enforcement awaited the ceremony that would forever alter their lives.

Tatsuo rose, his presence commanding attention. His voice, clear and resonant, echoed through the hall. "Today," he declared, "we celebrate the dedication and service of these individuals, who have proven their unwavering commitment to Dragonsden County. Their loyalty and skill have earned them the highest honor we can bestow."

He drew his sword, its polished surface reflecting the light. "By the power vested in me," he proclaimed, "I hereby knight these worthy individuals."

One by one, he called their names, each syllable ringing with authority. "Chief Major Stunny, kneel." Stunny, his expression stoic, knelt before the throne. Tatsuo touched the blade to his shoulder. "Arise, Sir Stunny Truewalker."

"Chief Major Amick, kneel." Amick, his eyes filled with gratitude, followed suit. "Arise, Sir Amick Stonehall."

"Chief Major Jalzub, kneel." Jalzub, his face stern and resolute, knelt before the throne. "Arise, Sir Jalzub Stonegate."

"Commander Kelt, kneel." Kelt, his expression unwavering, knelt before the throne. "Arise, Sir Kelt Ironwill."

"Mayor Faelar Stonehand, kneel." Faelar, his imposing figure kneeling before the throne. "Arise, Sir Faelar Stonehand."

The hall erupted in applause, the sound echoing off the vaulted ceiling. The newly knighted individuals stood, their faces radiating pride and gratitude.

Tatsuo continued, his voice filled with purpose. "Now, we move to the appointments. These individuals will lead our newly formed law enforcement department, ensuring the safety and security of Dragonsden County."

He turned to Kelt. "Sir Kelt Ironwill," he began, "you are hereby relieved of your command of law enforcement in Greywall Town. You will now assume the role of Chief Commander of Law Enforcement for Dragonsden County. Your responsibilities will encompass the overall management and coordination of all law enforcement activities within the county. You will oversee the four branches, ensuring their effective operation and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and integrity."

Kelt, his expression resolute, bowed his head. "I understand, Your Highness," he said. "I will not fail you."

Tatsuo then addressed the others. "Sir Amick Stonehall," he said, "you are hereby relieved of your rank as Chief Major in the army. You will now assume the role of Chief Watchmen. You will be responsible for the maintenance of law and order within our cities and towns. This includes patrolling the streets, apprehending criminals, and ensuring the safety of our citizens."

Amick, his eyes filled with determination, bowed his head. "I understand, Your Highness," he said. "I will uphold the law and protect our people."

"Sir Stunny Truewalker," Tatsuo continued, "you are hereby relieved of your rank as Chief Major in the army. You will now assume the role of Chief Director of the Escort Branch. You will be responsible for the protection of important individuals and the safe transport of valuable goods. This includes planning and executing escort missions, training escort personnel, and ensuring the security of our assets."

Stunny, his expression resolute, bowed his head. "I understand, Your Highness," he said. "I will ensure the safety of those under my protection."

"Sir Jalzub Stonegate," Tatsuo said, "you are hereby relieved of your rank as Chief Major in the army. You will now assume the role of Chief Warden. You will be responsible for the management and security of our county's jails. This includes maintaining order within the jails, ensuring the humane treatment of prisoners, and preventing escapes."

Jalzub, his face stern and resolute, bowed his head. "I understand, Your Highness," he said. "I will maintain order and ensure the security of our jails."

"Sir Faelar Stonehand," Tatsuo said, "you are hereby relieved of your position as Mayor of Riverbend Town. You will now assume the role of Chief Constable. You will be responsible for enforcing county-wide laws and patrolling our rural areas. This includes investigating crimes, apprehending criminals, and ensuring the safety of our rural communities."

Faelar, his imposing figure bowing slightly, said "I understand your highness, and will not fail you."

The hall erupted in applause, the sound echoing through the grand chamber. The newly appointed chiefs stood tall, their faces radiating confidence and determination.

After the ceremony, Tatsuo, Advisor Hui Cheng, and the Clash Commanders met with the newly appointed chiefs in Tatsuo's office. They offered their congratulations and advice, sharing their insights and experiences.

"Your roles are vital to the safety and prosperity of Dragonsden County," Tatsuo said, his voice filled with sincerity. "I have placed my trust in you, and I am confident that you will exceed my expectations."

He then addressed the matter of recruitment. "You are authorized to recruit members for your respective branches," he said. "Seek out individuals of integrity, skill, and dedication. Build your teams with those who share our commitment to justice and security."

He turned to Kelt and the Branch Chiefs. "You are also authorized to select worthy individuals for the positions of Deputy Chiefs and Director for Escorts," he said. "Choose wisely, for these individuals will play a crucial role in the success of your branches."

The chiefs nodded, their expressions resolute. They were eager to begin their new roles, to build their teams, and to serve the people of Dragonsden County with unwavering dedication.

"We will not disappoint you, Your Highness," Kelt said, his voice filled with conviction. "We will build a law enforcement department that will be the envy of the Empire."

The meeting concluded, the air filled with a sense of purpose and anticipation. Tatsuo was pleased with the progress they had made, confident that the new law enforcement department would bring greater security and stability to his domain. He looked forward to the future, knowing that Dragonsden County was in good hands.