Olivia, feeling left out, quickly intervened, her voice laden with a mix of jealousy and anxiety.
"And me? Shade, you said I'm part of this too! Why does she always have to be first? Just because she's a noble?"
Rebeca let out a nasal laugh, shooting a superior look at Olivia while adjusting a strand of hair.
"There's a however, Olivia. I am a high-lineage noble and I will be the key piece for Shade's plans to work and for him to stay alive in this academy. It's obvious that the preference should be mine."
"That's not fair!" Olivia retorted, her voice rising as she stood up from the bench, visibly irritated. "I've been by his side the whole time! Social status shouldn't be the criterion here!"
The two began arguing heatedly, exchanging barbs and arguments that were already starting to attract the attention of the few students crossing the academy courtyard at night.
