Reincarnated as an Imperial Prince

Loyalty and Plans

"Your Majesty, I appreciate that you have a job to do, but I wouldn't be doing mine if I didn't advise you against leaving the hospital so soon after the surgery." the lead surgeon of the surgery said to Alexander.

"Doctor, I understand completely. But I really do have to get back. It's a matter of national security. And you were the one who said you were really happy with my progress."

"I did say that, Your Majesty. But I also cautioned against undue stress,"

"Well being the future emperor of the Ruthenia Empire slash the head of state...I'm afraid I've got the wrong job for that,"

"Alex is a man of determination," Sophie joined the conversation, facing the doctor. "You're not going to win with him."

"I'm discovering that...Your Royal Highness," the doctor said.

"Look, doctor, I promise you I will do everything I can to take it easy," Alexander assured. "Besides, last time I checked, I think I outrank you."

Alexander winked and his doctor chuckled. He just pulled out his superior rank card and there's no way for the doctor to counter that.

"Seems like I'm going to concede here. Just make sure that you will avoid stress at all costs. This isn't a joke, Your Majesty."

"Of course, Doctor. No pressure." Alex replied with a grin on his face.

The doctor shook his head and left the room. As Sophie shut the door, she faced Alexander who was stretching his shoulder.

But before she could utter a word, Alexander spoke.

"Sophie, I know you're mad at me, but I really do need to get back."

"Alex...why are you forcing yourself to work again? Why can't you just leave it to your ministers? It's why they were there in the first place," Sophie pointed out.

"Look, Sophie," Alexander grabbed her hands, "You must understand where I'm coming from. We are trying to keep peace in our nation that the Black Hand is trying to jeopardize. If I don't take action now, the whole country could fall into chaos,"

"Alex..." As Sophie was about to reason with Alexander, a knock on the door interrupted her.

"Come in!" Alexander called out. The door swung open revealing one person; it was the Minister of Internal Affairs of the Ruthenian Empire, Dmitri Kaniv.

The minister bowed as he walked in and approached the royal couple. "Your Majesty, Her Royal Highness, you called for me?"

"Yes, I do indeed, Dmitri. I would like to have a discussion with you," Alexander said, shifting his gaze back to Sophie. "Can I have the room...Honey?"

"Yea yea sure," Sophie nodded before making her leave. Once Sophie left the room, Alexander turned to his minister once again.

"Do you know why I called you here?"

Dmitri cleared his throat nervously, "Is it about the deadline, sir?"

"Partly," Alexander said simply, "Do you remember our agreement right? Should you fail to track the one responsible, the Black Hand, I'll have you relieved of your duty,"

Beads of sweat began to form on Dmitri's forehead when he heard those words. "I'm well aware of that, Your Majesty."

"And by looking at your appearance, is it safe for me to assume that you haven't found them?"Alexander questioned.

Dmitri swallowed thickly, "I'm afraid so...Your Majesty. Will I be fired?"

Alexander sighed. "No...I'm taking back my words, Dmitri,"