Chivalry of a Dark Knight [Batman x Rakudai Kishi no Cavalry]

CH13: The Dragon Breath (prt 2)

Stella was sure that Bruce meant what he said in a general way but that didn't stop her mind from taking it at face value.

But even though she felt touched that he was concerned for her well being, she knew that he missed one important point.

"Bruce...we're training to be Mage-knights. We'll all be putting our lives in danger at some point." she said softly.

Bruce's eyes widened at this.

"Even after the Sword Art Festival we might get summoned for dangerous missions or even defend our own counties. I could've just stayed in my castle and did nothing but I didn't want that. I need...I want to be a strong capable knight who is willing to fight for my people, not someone who hides behind them. So please, I know what I'm getting myself into."

It was something he never expected but seeing this girl now, in this new light he had never seen her in before, Bruce was starting to wonder if perhaps he had underestimated her.

Sure, she could be impulsive, stubborn and hot-headed. But behind it all...Bruce saw a valiant and noble girl who was quite mature for someone her age.

Ikki was lucky to have a girl like her in his corner, Bruce knew he would've felt the same had he been in his shoes.

"All I'm asking for is a chance." Stella said. "If it doesn't work, I won't bother you again. Honest."

Seconds ticked by with Bruce remaining silent with contemplative frown and just as Stella thought he was going to refuse again...

"Okay. I'll entertain your idea, just this once."

Stella looked at him with surprise.

"You mean it?" she asked.

Bruce nodded.

The Crimson Princess couldn't contain her smile and actually hopped on the spot with fists pumped in victory.

"Yes! You won't be sorry." she said gratefully.

Bruce wasn't so sure.

But then Stella suddenly put on serious expression with half-lid eyes and a raised finger.

"But we'll need to go over a few ground rules first."

"Oh brother..." Bruce internally groaned.

"As your teacher, I expect you to treat me with the utmost respect!" Stella spoke with a high and mighty tone. "So from now on, you will call me 'Vermillion-sensei'."

Before Bruce could open his mouth to say something, Stella quickly spoke again.

"Ugh, no. That's makes me sound like sound like an old woman." she said to herself with a grimace.

"Princess..."

"I got it! 'Master Vermillion'. No! 'Master Stella'! Yes! You will call me 'Master Stella'!"

After she made that decree, Bruce put his fists to his hips and looked at her with weary impatience.

"Is there anything else or are you done?...Master Stella?" he added that last part with mocking sarcasm.

Stella didn't seem to notice the tone and put the side of her finger to her chin, trying to think of other conditions she could place on him.

"No, that's it for now. Just meet me in the training halls at around Eight, after dinner time."

"Tonight?" Bruce asked with a blink of surprise.

The young girl's eyes slowly grew as her cheeks turned red, realizing the implication of meeting a male alone at night.