The Shadow of Great Britain

Chapter 841: Chapter 387 King Arthur Residing in Scotland Yard (6K4)_3

“Arthur Hastings!”

Suddenly, a solemn and reverent shout broke this painting-like scene.

It was the Royal Attendant Officer George Elliot, it was the King calling.

Arthur walked up to the King, placed one hand on his chest, then bowed his head, kneeled on one knee.

King William IV revealed a hint of admiration in his eyes, but soon suppressed his smile, picking up the Knight Sword from the tray beside him.

King William IV drew the longsword, tapped his neck and shoulders three times with the back of the sword, then solemnly placed the sword back on his shoulders and asked.

“Arthur Hastings!

Are you willing to uphold the principles of honor above all, to see honor as your life, and always maintain noble standards of behavior, allowing no words or actions to tarnish your reputation.

Are you willing to be loyal to your lord, absolute loyalty to the lord and monarch, willing to risk your life and fulfill your vows and duties without hesitation.

Are you willing to protect the weak, to take on the responsibility of protecting women, children, the elderly, and the helpless, to fight against oppression and injustice, and to show compassion.

Are you willing to uphold justice, to adhere to principles of fairness in handling disputes and conflicts, opposing fraud and prejudice, and maintaining social order.

Are you willing to fight bravely, to face the enemy fearlessly, to fight courageously, but only draw your sword for just reasons, opposing unnecessary violence and slaughter.

Are you willing to respect your opponents, even on the battlefield, to respect your enemies, adhere to the rules of war, treat the defeated with mercy, and not take advantage of misfortunes.

Are you willing to be honest and faithful, do as you say, keep promises, maintain consistency in actions and words, and resolutely resist lies and betrayal.

Are you willing to pursue knowledge, not only skilled in martial arts but also in cultural refinement, seeking the growth of knowledge, and elevating your moral qualities.

Are you willing to restrain desires, curb personal desires, avoid greed, arrogance, and other vices, and maintain humility and self-discipline.

Are you willing to revere God, seeing yourself as God’s servant, devoutly faithful, guiding actions by God’s will.”

Arthur slightly bowed his head, placed one hand over his heart, and solemnly swore.

“By God’s guidance and your will, I, Arthur Hastings, hereby solemnly swear by Saint George, the patron saint of England, famed for his fearless courage, steadfast faith, and loyal devotion to Christianity, I solemnly promise:

I will treat the weak kindly,

I will face the strong bravely,

I will fight against those who err,

I will fight for those who cannot fight.

I will help those who seek my aid,

I will never harm women,

I will support my knight brothers,

I will treat my friends loyally,

I will treat my love sincerely.

I am bound by this sacred oath, no matter the difficulties, challenges, or temptations faced, to faithfully fulfill my promises, never to deviate, never to retreat. If I break this vow, may I face Saint George’s stern judgment and condemnation, and all deserving punishments and retributions on earth.

This oath, heartfelt, is in Saint George’s name, never forgotten.”

King William IV, upon hearing, slightly nodded and said.

“Facing strong enemies without fear! Brave and loyal, worthy of God! Upright and honest, rather die than lie! Protect the weak, no shame to the heavens! This is your vow, remember it well!

Arthur Hastings, I, William IV, by the grace of God, King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and its territories and lands, and King of the Kingdom of Hanover, protector of the Christian faith, hereby officially ordain you as a Junior Knight of the United Kingdom!”

Having said that, King William IV held the knight sword flat in his palm and said: “Avencez (rise), Sir Arthur Hastings.”

Arthur raised his head, gazing at the sword held in the King’s palm, he was somewhat dazed, and felt a bit lost until the King gently winked at him, awakening him like from a dream, he rose and accepted the sword symbolizing the knight’s status from the King’s hand.

“Deeply honored, Your Majesty.”

Royal Attendant Officer Sir George Elliot immediately stepped forward with a tray filled with knightly ornaments, smiling as he presented it to Arthur: “As your acquaintance and half-friend, I am glad to see you actually not seriously injured, Sir.”

Arthur took the tray and inhaled deeply: “I am also glad to see you in good health, Sir.”

The two exchanged smiles, but before they could continue much casual conversation, King William IV smiled and said to Arthur: “My dear Sir Arthur Hastings, as a talented police commander, at this farewell moment, don’t you have something to say to your lads?”

Arthur glanced at the King, then looked at the Duke of Wellington and Sir Pier standing beside him, his mentor Lord Brougham, and others.

Some slightly nodded to Arthur, while others showed faint smiles.

Seeing this, Arthur couldn’t help but smile gently, he turned around, only to find the officers’ gaze already focused on him.

He saw countless familiar faces among the crowd, including an ecstatic Tom and Tony, a relieved Brayden Jones, an eye-rolling Ledley King, and a laughing Thomas Plunkett along with many officers from the Police Intelligence Department and Criminal Investigation Department applauding him.

Arthur’s chest heaved, words seemed to stop and go, but in the end, his face still showed the usual gentle smile often seen among the Scotland Yard officers.