For the time being, Deneve wore the title of King Bareeds personal bodyguard. However, when she was summoned to his chambers, she could tell something had changed. King Bareeds had a new assignment for her.

“I have appointed you as a Princess with the power to speak for the royal family.” King Bareeds explained.

Deneve was stunned at the King’s announcement, “You can do that?” She asked, her brow furrowed in confusion.

“Considering the King is both without family and heir at the moment, there are contingency plans for such a disaster,” Sirare explained. “By making you a Princess, the Valencian monarchy might not be so willing to push the King to the side. Therefore, you will be our representative.”

Deneve was uncomfortable with the idea. It made sense Bareeds wasn’t in a position to show himself openly. The possibility of Neruda Shen attacking again was high. No one could be sure that Valencia would keep their promise to protect him. Deneve had more skills than most to ensure Bareeds and her protection, but she had no idea how royalty should act or what they should say.

Sirare seemed to note her discomfort. “Do not worry. We will teach you proper etiquette.”

King Bareeds nodded in agreement. “You just need to say, yes?” He added hopefully.

Deneve sighed thoughtfully. “I can’t promise I can be around forever, but if it helps, I’ll do it.”

Sirare and King Bareeds gave each other a knowing glance before the King responded with a wry smile. “That’s fair. We never asked what your plan was or if you had any family. If you need to relinquish the title of Princess at some point, we can cover for it.”

So the lessons in etiquette and politics began. Deneve took part in political meetings and offered her advice on matters. The King’s confidence in Deneve soared as he watched her find practical solutions to problems, and her intuition when it came to people was of great help to the young King.

The King had given Deneve new clothing to demonstrate her new role. Sirare knocked on the wall by Deneve’s room, civility she insisted on as the inner rooms in the construction here did not have doors. Instead, they used heavy tapestries for privacy. Upon her acknowledgment, he pushed aside the heavy curtain that covered the doorway. He carried a large trunk and quickly set it on the floor.

“Your new wardrobe, Princess Deneve.” Sirare teased lightly.
The tailor had been to see Deneve a few weeks prior. Sirare opened the trunk with an exaggerated flourish. Deneve chuckled at his facetiousness. They pulled the outfits out and laid them on the bed.

Her armor was striking black, red, and gold. It complimented her unique looks as well as her fighting style. Bareeds quickly realized that although she was a Princess of Mediah, Deneve needed protection and needed to move.

The next outfit was one for everyday wear. The robes Deneve had been too warm for this desert environment. She had already taken to just wearing the chemise when she was in her room.

Sirare pulled out a formal dress with boots next. This outfit was much more ornate than the others, obviously made for more for official affairs.

He pulled the last outfit out of the trunk. It consisted of more daily wear.

It’s too much,” Deneve said quickly as a blush rose on her face. She was unused to this type of attention. Deneve never put much thought into her clothing. It needed to be practical, and she tended to toward black.

“I don’t think so,” King Bareeds answered from the doorway. “Honestly, most princesses would have much more than four different outfits. They usually have closets full.” Gone was the childlike nature that broke through now and then, and before Deneve stood a King working to pull his broken country back together. Deneve nodded as she carefully placed the clothing back in the trunk.