Chapter 22

The day after Alvis was injured, Rex was not serving as a guard but was receiving an explanation from Luke, along with Din, at the station. In the captain's office, Rex stood with Din. In front of them, Luke sat in his chair, arms crossed, with a stern expression.

"…I don't think you are entirely at fault. However, the fact remains that the prince is still in critical condition and has not regained consciousness. In the current Rubelia, he is the person who needs the most protection."

"…I apologize."

"…"

At that moment, Alvis was the first to notice the arrow. If Alvis had been allowed to carry a sword, the outcome would have been different. He could have deflected the arrow. Alvis had the skill to do so. However, unfortunately, Alvis, who was not a member of the royal guard, was not permitted to carry a sword. By the time Rex and the others nearby noticed, Alvis was already hugging Elina, covering her mouth to stifle her scream. Rex and the others, understanding Alvis's intention, were unable to move.

"I understand why you didn't cause a commotion. The prince's judgment at that point was not wrong. The main issue is that the prince… Alvis himself has not fully stepped out of the role of protector. He needs to clearly realize that he is now on the side that needs to be protected, not the one who protects…"

"…So, the prince himself also needs to be educated?"

"Yes. First, he needs to get used to being protected. It's natural for his body to move on its own, but…"

Luke's expression remained stern. It was no wonder, as correcting deeply ingrained unconscious actions is not an easy task. Rex, who had spent time with him, thought it was even more impossible. He knew that while it was partly unconscious, it was also a matter of personality. Therefore, to protect Alvis, Rex and the others needed to become even stronger.

After leaving the office, Rex headed to Alvis's private room as part of his duty. Even when Rex and the others were not there, other royal guards were on duty.

"Here to relieve you, inside?"

"Rex… Yes. And right now, the daughter of Duke Lithaard is here. The prince has not yet regained consciousness."

"…I see."

"Report any changes in the situation immediately… It's an order from His Majesty."

"Understood. Then, I'll go in."

"Yes."

With a nod, Rex entered the room. The atmosphere inside was dark, as it had been since last night. It was natural, given that the room's owner, Alvis, was bedridden. Replacing the royal guard inside, Rex greeted the head maid, Tilia.

"Thank you for your service, Lord Rex."

"No, it's nothing. How is the prince?"

"…He's the same. Would you like to see him first?"

"Please…"

Tilia knew that Rex and Alvis were former colleagues. She had seen them working together as royal guards. So, this invitation was more of a friend's concern for Alvis rather than a formal duty. Opening the door to the bedroom, Rex saw Elina holding Alvis's hand. A maid he didn't recognize stood beside her. Rex approached her first and performed a knight's salute.

"Excuse me. I am Rex von Seeling, the prince's guard. Are you the maid of the daughter of Duke Lithaard?"

"Yes. I am allowed to be here as an exception. My name is Sara."

"…I apologize. As a guard, I cannot be unaware."

"No, it's fine. It's your job, so I don't mind."

Rex nodded to Sara, who bowed, and then stood on the opposite side of the bed from Elina.

"…Alvis"

Alvis's complexion was far from good. Seeing his labored breathing, Rex tightened his lips. He gently touched Alvis's hair.

"…Rely on me a little… You always do this… Next time, I won't let you get hurt… It's a promise."

He whispered softly, so only Alvis could hear. It was Rex's resolve to his younger friend.