The Royal Guard | A.A

2

In the aftermath of The Rumbling, with the world in disarray and nations struggling to survive, trade became a crucial lifeline. The Island of Paradis, once isolated and shrouded in mystery to other nations, now had established trade agreements with various world leaders. These leaders, previously unknown to Eldians, were now linked to their island home through these agreements. The new and established country reflected the newfound connections and opportunities for survival in this post-war landscape.

Whispers and rumours spread like wildfire through the nations, carrying news of Eldia's once secret fuel source - the coveted Ice Burst Stone. Previously reserved solely for powering ODM gear used in battle against the menacing titans, this rare resource suddenly became a highly sought-after commodity among the rest of the world, which was 100 years ahead in technological advancements. Eldia's previously hidden trading point now gleamed brightly on the map, attracting every other country with hopes of acquiring some of this valuable fuel.

In the newly expanded lands of the Kingdom of Eldia, there was a pressing need for more farming grounds. However, due to limited livestock in the area, it would not be enough to sustain the growing economy. To solve this issue, the King made the decision to trade fuel in exchange for livestock, as it would bring in much needed funds and resources to the kingdom's economy, leaving the kingdom greatly benefitted.

Despite the dire need for trade with other nations, Paradis had always been excluded from this option as the outside world was completely unknown to them. As a result, the King's confidence was falsely inflated, leading him to believe he could neglect his obligations and still come out unscathed. With each broken agreement, his arrogance grew, blinding him to the impending consequences of his actions. But he knew, deep down, that his treacherous actions would eventually catch up to him. The consequences of his deceitful ways would come crashing down on him like a merciless tidal wave, drowning him in his own guilt and shame. And there would be no escaping it, not forever.

He grasped the armrests of his throne, his mind racing with fear and guilt as he waited for the inevitable reckoning of his past actions. Every second felt like a minute, every minute like an hour, as he sat in agonizing anticipation of when his actions would finally catch up to him.

As if on cue, the heavy stone door burst open with a resounding thud, sending shards of sunlight cascading into the dimly lit throne room. The King sat upon his ornate throne, his face wrought with worry and anticipation. Suddenly, one of his own royal guards came barrelling through the entrance, nearly tripping over his own feet in haste. His chest heaved as he delivered the news that the King dreaded to hear.

"My king, forgive my abrupt entrance. I come bearing urgent news," one of his guards, Jean, announced, slightly out of breath from his rapid journey through the castle corridors. His face flushed and sweat beaded on his forehead as he stood before the throne.

"There have been two instances of trespassing in the royal gardens this afternoon." The words spilled out rapidly, a sense of urgency in his tone.

The king's gaze sharpened as he listened intently to the report, his brow furrowing in concern. Outside, the sun beat down on the castle walls and birds chirped in the distance, giving no indication of the trouble within its walls.

"Children are often found trying to enter the gardens, what is so important about it this time that you dare to interrupt my peace?" The King's voice boomed, loud and stern, as he questioned the urgency of the Jean's intrusion into his presence. His eyes narrowed, scanning the frightened face before him. The air was thick with tension awaiting Jeans reasoning.

Jean's voice trembles with fear as he speaks, his eyes darting nervously between the two men in front of him.

"They are not innocent children or unsuspecting civilians this time - they are full grown men, armed and dangerous." Jean's heart pounds in his chest as he describes finding a gun, chloroform, and a photograph of the Princess on them during a pat-down.

"Wait, you mean they're here for Y/N?" The king stammered, fear evident in his voice.

"Yes, and the worst part is, they weren't even together. They are both from different nations." Jean informed him. "Captain Levi told me, he questioned them separately, they both arrived here, sent by different people."

"Thank you for informing me Jean, it is greatly appreciated. Let Captain Levi know, I am grateful for his help too. Please leave me to think now."

Jean left the room without anything more than a nod in the Kings direction. Happy to help with relaying the information to King Knox himself.

Sitting on his throne, the king's mind was consumed with worry. His daughter, the only family member left, was in grave danger. As the sole heir to the throne, her safety was imperative for the survival of their kingdom and legacy of the Knox name. But what could he do to protect her? How could he ensure that nothing bad would happen to her? These thoughts weighed heavily on his heart as he struggled with conflicting emotions - fear for his daughter's well-being and the weight of what would happen to the Knox legacy if his daughter was not to inherit the throne.. What could he do to help his situation?

He was faced with an unthinkable decision. A stranger, someone who had never even met his daughter, would have to become her personal protector. They needed to be the absolute best, unbreakable and unyielding in their dedication to keeping her safe. Failure was not an option when it came to his daughter's life.

Was he really about to hire straight from the Scouts regiment? And more than that, the only person in the Scouts regiment who he saw fit to keep his daughter safe. The 15th commander himself... Armin Arlert.