The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word RETINUES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
R
E
T
I
N
U
E
S
Buddy explains!
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does RETINUES mean?
RETINUES noun- A group of servants or attendants, especially of someone considered important.
- A group of warriors or nobles accompanying a king or other leader; comitatus.
- A service relationship.