"Daughter, what is this…? But you’re still the captain of the Knights’ Order of our Sradon Kingdom! To become a commoner’s sword attendant and disciple—this is utterly absurd!" Aide was utterly shocked by Aifei’s words.

"Can a knight like me truly be fit for this role? I’m sorry, Father. I intend to step down. My training is still far from sufficient. Let the more capable seniors take the position." Aifei spoke with a hint of apology. Right now, all she wanted was to hone her swordsmanship and reclaim the lost spirit of a knight.

During her time as captain, she had been unhappy. Each day drowned in duty upon duty; she had never truly lived for herself, and her beloved swordsmanship had no room to grow.

She knew one truth clearly: protecting one’s nation was no empty vow. Strength mattered most. Only with true power could one safeguard the homeland. Thinking this way, there was no need to cling to titles—the captaincy was, after all, just a role.

What Aifei didn’t yet realize was that this single choice would alter the course of her life.

"Th… then, very well," Aide sighed helplessly, knowing he couldn’t sway his daughter.

"Are you certain you wish to take me as your master? Be warned: becoming my disciple demands the resolve to face death."

In that era, many sought my guidance—Angelkin, Demonkin… I never turned anyone away. Yet most fled home or shattered mentally. Fewer than five ever persevered.

"Of course! I, Aifei, pledge today to take you as my master. I shall become your guardian knight. For this life and beyond, my blade strikes in your name, wielded solely for you—never to betray." As she spoke, Aifei knelt before me and offered her sword.

"I’ll ask three questions. Answer truthfully, and I’ll accept you."

"Speak."

"If the Sradon Kingdom and I faced danger at once, whom would you save first? Hypothetical, of course—I’d never be in peril. But answer honestly."

"Hmm… I’d save the kingdom’s people first… then you, Master."

"Why?"

"Because, Master, your strength dwarfs mine. Any danger you face is beyond my power to resolve. It’s wiser to trust in you and aid the vulnerable."

"Good!!!! Your reasoning is sound. Next: if I summoned you at night, would you come?" I posed the sharp question instantly—though truthfully, I’d never do such a thing.

"I would! As your sworn knight and attendant, your wish is my command. I will obey."

To my surprise, Aifei answered without hesitation, as if she’d expected it. Truly, a knight who embodied chivalry.

"Final question: do you like me? Answer directly." This question held weight.

Only a knight with genuine affection for her master could truly devote herself. Duty alone wasn’t enough. Admittedly, I was being unreasonable—we’d only just met. Such feelings couldn’t exist yet.

"I…" Aifei’s face flushed crimson. She’d clearly mistaken "affection" for romance.

*So handsome…* Right then, she lifted her gaze and saw my face fully.

Admittedly, he matched her ideal perfectly: long, softly curled lashes; eyes clear as morning dew; a straight noble nose; lips pink as rose petals; fair skin. But most importantly—his overwhelming strength, far beyond her own.

Aifei’s one non-negotiable standard for her ideal prince? He must possess the power to subdue her.

And this man met every criterion.

"L-l-like…"

After a silent struggle, the word escaped her lips. Her cheeks burned deep crimson.

"No need to force it. I accept you as my disciple. Come with me—I’ll guide you properly tonight." I took her hand and led her out of the hall.

*A talk?* Wait… was that question not a joke?

Aifei’s mind spiraled into deeper confusion.