Princess? A Drinking Companion? (Bonus Chapter)

"Damn bad luck. When I get back this time, I'm definitely taking a bath and burning incense to wash this bad luck away!" Nalant muttered, feeling that something was off about how tonight had begun.

"Greetings, Your Highness the Princess!"

"Greetings, Your Highness the Princess!"

Before long, the princess's entourage arrived before them, followed by several dozen Royal Knights and palace guards.

As the princess appeared, all the surrounding soldiers lowered their heads and dropped to one knee in salute.

"Captain Eli, have the escaped prisoners been recaptured?"

"Reporting to Your Highness, all the escaped prisoners have been captured!" Captain Eli immediately replied.

"Consider this making up for your mistakes with merit!" The princess glanced at the prisoners on the carriage before giving a slight nod.

"Thank you for Your Highness's mercy!"

"Enough. The battle ahead is still ongoing. Captain Eli, take your hundred-man company and immediately go to my father's side to protect him!" The princess waved a hand.

"Th-this... Your Highness, His Majesty ordered us to ensure your safety!"

"The Onyx Principality's army is all trapped on the hill. What danger could there possibly be here? Besides, I have palace guards at my side. My safety is more than assured!"

"Yes, Your Highness!" Captain Eli did not dare say another word and immediately accepted the order.

"Good. Then get there at once. You must ensure my father's safety!"

"Yes, Your Highness! Second Company of the First Battalion of the Royal Knights, move out with me!" Captain Eli immediately rose, swung himself onto his horse, and led the way south without looking back.

The Royal Knights around them, including those behind the princess, promptly followed.

For a time, only the rangers and a number of ordinary guards remained in the field.

Oh, no—Nalant and the others were still