Chapter 90: The Endless Uses of an Imperial Slave Princess, and the Loyal Dog Knight’s Fierce Onslaught (2)

Shia sighed inwardly. Though he’d long known her nature, witnessing it firsthand still gave him a slight headache. She’d be challenging to handle.

But in the end, she was another card up his sleeve for survival. With a smile directed at Nia but words meant for Lilith, he said, “Don’t worry; I’ll treat her well.”

His headache and helplessness were real, but so was his promise.

The elven princess, wielding power and authority, was undoubtedly a formidable force.

Nia’s face maintained a pure smile, her aura a complex blend of celestial and demonic qualities. As she looked at Shia, a flicker of doubt crossed her mind. She could sense Shia’s genuine care and the complicated… pity in his heart.

Shia, meanwhile, was recalling the fate she would face in the future. His previously relaxed demeanor grew heavy with seriousness.

In the game, she had to make a choice. The options seemed driven by the player, but the ending was predetermined: left or right, a binary decision. But now, in the real world, he was free from the constraints of the scripted storyline. He could follow his heart and find a way to have it all.

Thus, he rejected the idea of choosing.

We’re adults now. Who settles for just one choice? I’ll take everything!

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The wind caught the edges of a billowing cape as the knight in black armor leaped off her steed and strode into the room. The armor clung to her elegant figure, while her dark green hair, tousled by her brisk movement, framed a strikingly beautiful and resolute face. Her sun-kissed skin added a powerful allure to her presence. Her expression was solemn, though a spark of anticipation shone deep within her eyes.

When she finally saw the figure she had etched into her mind, the knight’s eyes flickered with emotion: excitement, guilt, and longing.

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The silver-haired princess paused slightly, sensing something different. Turning around, she saw the green-haired knight kneeling on one knee.

“Princess, forgive me. I’m late. I should have been by your side during such an important moment as your enrollment.”

Aph sincerely apologized. She had known about the princess’s enrollment and should have accompanied her. However, mission obligations had delayed her return. Failing to protect the princess was already a dereliction of her duty as a knight.

Violet looked at the figure before her, emotions swirling in her eyes: joy and a trace of grievance, as if silently asking, “Why did you only come now?”

But when Aph bowed deeply, lowering her proud head to ask for forgiveness, Violet hurriedly stepped forward. She reached out to help Aph up, a touch of reproach in her expression.

“Aph, with our bond since childhood, why act so distant?” Violet grasped Aph’s arms, lifting her to her feet. “I’ve told you to treat me as a friend.”

Warmth flickered in Aph’s eyes, and her heart felt soothed. Yet she remained mindful of her position.

“Your Highness, as a member of the Royal Guard, it is my duty to maintain my role.” While Violet’s grace allowed such familiarity, Aph couldn’t overstep. She was a knight and a guardian of the royal family. The hierarchy between them couldn’t be ignored.

Violet sighed inwardly, recognizing Aph’s steadfastness. Yet, seeing her childhood friend, who was like an older sister, made her undeniably happy. Amid her joy, however, memories of being bullied by Shia surfaced, and a wave of grievance welled up inside her. Her eyes stung with unshed tears.

Even during her most frustrating moments, she hadn’t felt so aggrieved. Now that Aph was back, like a protective sister and steadfast friend, the contrast only deepened her sense of injustice. Aph’s presence was her unwavering shield and greatest comfort.

She thought Aph could help her deal with the rogue who had mistreated her. But just as she opened her mouth, she hesitated. Could she really drag such a pure and loyal friend into this? Could she trust Aph to handle someone as cunning and ruthless as Shia?

Violet wavered, uncertain. The thought of exposing Aph to potential harm stopped her. She wanted to confide but also protect her. Yet, with their close bond, concealing her troubles wasn’t so simple.

Aph sensed something was amiss almost immediately. “Your Highness, is there something troubling you?” Her voice radiated reassurance.

“If something is wrong, please tell me. I’ll do everything in my power to fulfill your wishes.”

Faced with Aph’s earnest gaze, Violet hesitated before murmuring, “It’s nothing much. Just some minor disputes between classmates… Nothing serious.” She paused, then reluctantly added, 'I’ve been… bullied by a classmate.'

Recalling those humiliating experiences made her blush with shame. Yet she left out the worst details, not because she feared Aph knowing but because she didn’t want to burden her. Violet preferred to shield those she cared about.

Still, her downcast demeanor betrayed her feelings. Aph’s expression hardened with concern and determination. “Is there anything else?” she asked gently but firmly.

Violet sighed deeply, her shoulders drooping. “I also lost the glory I should have achieved.”

The position of top freshman had nearly become an obsession for her. Yet, being outmatched and subsequently humiliated only deepened her frustration.

Violet didn’t want Aph to know about her grievances, not wanting to burden her with worry. Yet, even the vague words Violet shared were enough to ignite a sense of injustice in Aph. Her entire being exuded a fierce aura, her determination unwavering as she prepared to act immediately.

Seeing Aph grip her sword and prepare to storm out, Violet quickly grabbed her arm.

“Where are you going?”

Aph halted her steps and glanced back at Violet’s hand holding her arm. Her heart softened, but a deep pang of heartache followed.