He didn't respond to what she said about being her personal guard. He was sorely tempted to accept the offer. The thing that stopped him was that he knew Captain Artimus had planned to have another appointed as her guard once she graduated. By accepting her offer, he could be closer to her but he would be risking her life in exchange for his freedom. He knew that Artimus would never go for him being near her as it would undermine whatever plans he had.<br/><br/>"My hair is a matter of indifference to me," He said, completely indifferent to the throbbing of his injuries that made themselves known as Kate addressed them, "As for my back, do as you will, you are the healer here."<br/><br/>He started tracing random symbols into the pillow his head lay on. He was putting serious thought into becoming her guard. His head was saying he shouldn't accept. His heart, it had always been hers. He wasn't sure when it had happened, but he knew he would sacrifice life and limb to protect her. It didn't take him long to decide.<br/><br/>"My sword, regardless of its condition, has faithfully served your family for most of my life," He said, letting his hand squeeze hers, "My heart, however, has always served you. While I cannot predict the future, I swear on my honor and my life that I will let none harm you as long as there is life in me."