The day was finally here, one that Richard was both excited and terrified about. For the last several years he's been training for this and today was his graduation: His knighthood.

He went over to his wardrobe where his armour rested. Putting it on was a tedious process and not something that couldn't be rushed. Over time he got better at putting it on but even now he would accidently twist the armour, having to redo the process.

Once done he went to his mirror to see if he looked respectful. Everything looked to be in order. His armour was clean and there were no creases in the cloth. He grabbed his helmet and put it on.

"Now you look like a knight" It was the familiar voice of Alke. She moved over to his wing so that they could speak face to face.

"I still can't believe this is the day," Richard responded.

"You worked hard for it and I couldn't be prouder."

Richard smiled "Yeah. I'm glad I stayed"

"Me too now we best get going. You don't to be late" Alke then retreated back to her usual spot on Richard's left shoulder hidden under the armour. He took a deep breath and made his way down to the chapel.

By the time he got there all the servants of the castle were there waiting. As he walked down towards the altar they bowed their heads as a sign of respect. They had never done that before. It was surreal seeing people showing him respect like this but he held his head high. His teacher Chiron was waiting for him with a sword in his hands.

Once Richard reached the altar he went down onto one knee and bowed his head before him. Not a sound could be heard as Chiron began to speak.

"Richard, when I took you in all those years ago, you told me you didn't want to be a coward anymore. You wanted to be strong. And more importantly to protect those in need. I no longer see that boy. I now see a young nobleman willing to uphold the ancient code of a Knight. To never refuse the call for help. To help those in need even when they don't ask for it and to never ask for anything in return.

"Many fail to achieve this goal in becoming a knight and leave but you persevered. You showed determination to achieve your ambition. You refused to give in to weakness and live life like the average man outside these walls. You chose to stay to become stronger both in body and mind.

"You may not have chosen how you started in life Richard but know this. You are in control of your destiny and no one can take that away from you. Remember that and you will never lose your way. Now rise"

Richard rose up to his feet keeping his head lowered. His teacher then lifted up their sword and handed it over. He took the sword and raised it in front of him. "Now, swear your duty to this sword and seal your contract."

Richard took a deep breath and began to speak, "I swear upon this sword to protect those in need. I shall never turn my back on the weak and helpless. I have seen what evil can bring onto people and will not look away. Where my blade goes evil shall know fear and wherever I stand the people shall be protected. I am a knight and I shall die before I fail to uphold my duty to the people of this world."

The chapel was silent as his words echoed off the walls. Chiron gave Richard a small smile and nod that he returned. "From this day forward you shall be known as Sir Richard the Protector."

Richard turned to face the servants and raised his sword into the air. The servants roared "Hail Sir Richard! Hail Sir Richard! Hail Sir Richard! Hail Sir Richard! Hail Sir Richard!"

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This is a brilliant YCH that I got from  BigGoodWolf

Richard belongs to me