More and more I was learning not to question the ways of El Elyon. What He willed would come to pass.
I inclined my head forward in a deferential bow, "You do us a great honor. I think I speak for all my men in that we would be honored to serve with the forces of Philanthia for a time. How long a time I cannot say, as by right of allegiance I owe El Elyon my first oath of allegiance over any King of the seven kingdoms and if He should require it of me I will leave to do His bidding."
I heard Thanuel groan slightly, but I'd said what I had in good conscience and the King seemed to receive it so.
"Neither do I ask any man to go beyond what El Elyon should ask of him, in terms of allegiance to me as King. For now I am glad to have you and your men. Come, let's be off to the capital! But first, your name sir?"
"Benaiah," I responded, slightly embarrassed that I had no last name to add to it. Such an admonition was clear evidence of my position forever within the lower echelons of society.
The King didn't seem to mind though, "You will ride up front with me. Now, let's be off for Ranfor!"
I did as ordered, only I tried to keep my horse slightly back from the King's horse out of deference to his high rank, but it was clear that he wanted me to talk further so reluctantly I drew close to him.
"Tell me, a man who serves El Elyon such as you do, how do you so willingly make a commitment of time to me?"
A moment of decision passed, but there was no substitute for honesty, "El Elyon told me to serve with you for a while even before you made mention of it."
The King nodded, but said nothing more.
Several miles went by before the King spoke, "It's good to be in the presence of an honest man again. Not only one who is honest, but one who obeys the Most High as well. It has been a long time since I met such a man, a young one at that. Such wisdom does not usually follow those of your age."
"I had a good teacher," I said simply, as I did not want the King's praise of me to continue. I already felt embarrassed enough by what he had said.
By way of trying to change the conversation I asked, "Who was the enemy that we stopped from attacking your men?"