Silence fell over the reception hall.
"Your Highness…"
The little maid stared blankly at Arthur. Shock and worry were written all over her delicate face.
As she watched Erik being dragged out, unease welled up inside her.
"Is this really alright? The Gambino Family—"
"Heh, don't worry. Everything is under control," Arthur replied with a reassuring smile. "The Gambino Family is nothing worth fearing. There's no need for concern."
Seeing the confidence in his expression—and recalling how he had just stepped forward to protect her—the maid's cheeks flushed faintly. She lowered her head and gave a soft response.
"Next…"
Arthur's gaze slowly shifted toward the guards who were still being restrained by the ANBU.
His expression turned solemn, his eyes calm and cold.
"What happened just now, I will let it pass. But remember—this is your final warning.
"You are the kingdom's guards. The loyal protectors of the royal family. Your duty is to obey orders—not the legion commander, not the Minister of Defense, but me.
"I am Zephir's prince by blood… and the future King who will rule this nation."
"Yes, Your Highness!"
Shame and unease filled the guards' faces as they lowered their heads. They understood exactly what he meant—when the ministers acted earlier, they had hesitated instead of standing firmly by the prince.
"Release them."
At Arthur's signal, the ANBU withdrew the kunai from the guards' throats.
Aside from White Fang, who remained at Arthur's side, the rest of the ANBU melted silently into the shadows.
The guards let out collective breaths of relief. Yet as they glanced at the places where the masked figures had vanished, fear flickered unmistakably in their eyes.
The prince had secretly cultivated such a mysterious and powerful force.
It was awe-inspiring.
"Which one of you is in charge?" Arthur asked calmly.
"Reporting to Your Highness—it is I."
A burly middle-aged guard stepped forward respectfully and bowed.
"Who currently commands the Kingdom's army?"
"Since the legion commander fell in battle, the army has been under the direct authority of the Minister of Defense," the man answered cautiously, watching Arthur's reaction.
"What's your name?"
"Stanley, Your Highness."
"Stanley…"
Arthur nodded slightly.
"Very well. From this moment onward, you and your men are relieved of palace guard duty. Take your subordinates and report to the Kingdom's army."
"What?" Stanley froze in place, stunned.
Arthur continued without pause.
"Furthermore, you will temporarily assume the position of legion commander of the Kingdom's army. Remember this well—without my permission, the army is not to take any independent action."
Stanley's eyes widened in disbelief.
But only for a moment.
He quickly dropped to one knee, his head nearly touching the floor, joy and gratitude flooding his face.
"Thank you for Your Highness's trust!"
"Mm. Rise."
Arthur's tone was calm, yet sharp.
"Remember—I can grant you the position of legion commander just as easily as I can take everything away."
A chill ran down Stanley's spine. He subconsciously glanced at White Fang beside the prince, fear flashing through his eyes.
"Yes, Your Highness!"
"Take the guards to the army's garrison. Also, send word to the citizens—have them gather in the square before the palace. I have an important announcement to make."
"Yes, Your Highness!"
Without daring to question further, Stanley hurried away with the guards.
Once they were gone, Arthur spoke without turning around.
"White Fang. The palace's defense will be entrusted to the ANBU. That won't be a problem, I assume?"
"Rest assured, Your Highness," White Fang replied in a low, steady voice. "Protection is one of the ANBU's specialties. As long as we are here, the palace will be absolutely secure."
"Good."
A satisfied smile curved at Arthur's lips.
Compared to guards who might shift loyalties at any moment, he trusted the system-summoned ANBU far more.
In his view, unless a Marine Admiral personally arrived, the palace was now the safest place in the kingdom.
Turning around, Arthur's gaze fell upon the little maid.
Only then did he realize he didn't even know her name.
"What's your name?" he asked gently.
"Ah—R-Reporting to Your Highness, my name is Elia."
She clearly hadn't expected the sudden question and stumbled over her words.
"Elia? Thank you for taking care of me during this time," Arthur said with a nod and a smile. "From today onward, you won't be working with the other maids. You'll serve as my personal attendant. Stay by my side."
With that, he turned and walked out of the reception hall, White Fang following closely behind.
"Ah?"
Elia stood frozen for a moment.
Then realization dawned.
Her cheeks flushed bright red.
Shyness and joy flashed through her beautiful eyes as she hurried after him.
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