It became a battle of wits the moment King Garick opened his mouth.
He had expected his daughter to sit quietly and accept his decision. After all, he was finally allowing her to stay. And that's what she wanted, right?
But no. What he got instead was a full-on argument that would have put two wild beasts to shame.
Princess Kira was on her feet in an instant, her voice sharp. "Father, you can't expect me to just sit around here while you throw yourself into danger."
"That's not fair! You get to feel at ease because I'm safe here, but what about me? I'll likely go crazy because you plan to march in with Orcs who might not even be loyal to you?"
Her golden eyes blazed.
King Garick's own glare was unflinching. "You will do as you're told. This is not a request."
Around them, the cadets' heads kept turning back and forth like spectators at a match.
Back and forth.
Back and forth.
And then Duchess Amelia finally sighed.
"King Garick. Princess Kira."
