It wasn’t really a promise he could make. Both of them knew it. Death was not something one could fully avoid, fully prepare for. Even the most prepared, most dedicated and most thoughtful warriors could still be surprised, could still fall sick, could still lose. But he was fairly sure that Mingyu knew this, too.

Whatever the cost. Would he risk Mingyu’s own life for a vow?

Did Fox face the same question?

He let out a breath, and then nodded.

“I will not leave you behind. No matter the cost. You have my word.”

However much a traitorous, unfilial, mutinous Crown Prince’s word was worth.