Dark Moon: Rise of The Dark King

Third Arc (Fallen Heart) - 351. The Same Regimen

Together, they left the study, Angel closing the door behind them with a quiet click. The corridor stretched ahead, lit by the soft glow of lanterns along the walls. Their footsteps echoed faintly against the stone floor, creating a steady rhythm as they walked side by side.

Rose glanced at him, her lips curving into a small smile. "I had the maids prepare the bath for you. And some refreshments."

Angel raised an eyebrow, glancing at her with mild curiosity. "What kind of refreshments? I just ate, you know."

"Fruits, some light snacks," Rose replied casually. She looked ahead, her tone light but teasing. "I know you hate sweet things before sleeping. And, of course, I remembered your strict diet."

Angel scoffed softly, shaking his head with a hint of amusement. "Every knight and warrior has a strict diet and discipline. It's not exactly groundbreaking."

"You're not just a knight or a warrior, Angel," Rose countered, her gaze meeting his briefly. "You're a king. Yet you still keep to the same regimen."

He smirked faintly, a glint of pride in his eyes. "Some good habits are worth guarding, Rose. Discipline isn't just about battles; it's a mindset. It kept me alive in the field, and it'll keep me alive in the court too. Helps with focus."

Rose tilted her head, watching him closely as they continued walking. "You make it sound like court politics are as dangerous as battlefields."

Angel glanced at her, his expression serious now. "They are. In their own way. A misplaced word can be as deadly as a sword. The only difference is that in court, the wounds are hidden, and the attacks come with a smile."

She nodded, understanding his words. She had seen enough of court life to know how ruthless it could be, even without bloodshed. The idea that Angel approached it with the same discipline he brought to war wasn't surprising, but it deepened her admiration for the way he carried himself. He wasn't just strong physically; his mind was as sharp as any blade.

"And here I thought you only had to worry about ruling," she said, her tone light, though her eyes betrayed the thoughtfulness behind her words.

Angel chuckled softly. "Ruling is the easy part. Navigating the ambitions of those around you—that's where the real challenge lies."

Rose smiled, though there was a flicker of sadness in it. "That's why you don't let your guard down, isn't it? Even now."

He didn't answer immediately, his gaze fixed ahead. "Letting your guard down can cost you everything. It's not just about me anymore. Especially since some of them want me dead."

Rose's smile faltered slightly, her steps slowing as she processed his words. "You mean the rebels?" she asked softly.

Angel gave a slight nod. "The rebels, even neighboring kingdoms that still see me as a threat. I've built stability, but stability doesn't mean peace. And now that you're stepping into the role of queen, you'll inherit some of that danger." He glanced at her, his expression calm but resolute. "After you become queen, I'll assign two knights to escort you."

Rose shook her head, her tone laced with a touch of exasperation. "You don't even have a single knight guarding you. You're a king, Angel, and yet you walk around without anyone at your side."

A small smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. "I have four."

Rose blinked in confusion, tilting her head slightly. "What do you mean, four?"

"My elemental spirits," he replied simply. "Did you forget about them?"

"Oh," she murmured, realization dawning on her. "But you've assigned them to different places, haven't you? How is that the same?"

"It's true they're stationed elsewhere most of the time," Angel admitted, his tone even. "But they're spirits, Rose. Our bond is tight enough that they always know if I'm in danger. I can summon them to my side instantly if I truly need them."

Rose fell quiet, biting her lower lip thoughtfully. She couldn't argue with his reasoning—after all, his bond with the spirits was unique, and their abilities far surpassed those of mortal knights. Still, the thought of knights shadowing her everywhere felt… constricting.

"It's not about controlling you," Angel added after a moment, as if sensing her hesitation. "It's about ensuring your safety. If something were to happen to you." He trailed off, his gaze softening as he turned to look at her. "I can't take that risk."

Her heart tightened at the sincerity in his voice, and she let out a soft sigh. "I understand," she said finally, her tone less resistant.

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