The Villainess's Secret Bedroom Service
Chapter 112: The Benefactor

Chapter 112: The Benefactor

Rosalie carefully placed her feet onto the impeccably maintained stone path, taking measured but purposeful steps as she embarked on her journey toward the training grounds.

At last, the relentless, seemingly unstoppable snowfall had ceased and despite the persistent cold, it allowed the landscape to be adorned by the glistening white blankets of snow. Under the radiant sunlight, these snowy mountains bestowed upon the Capital a pristine, ethereal charm, while the tranquil, almost serene ambiance enticed even the most homebound of Capital residents to abandon their cozy shelters, beckoning them outdoors to savor the crisp, yet breathtakingly beautiful December atmosphere.

The weight of the arduous, monotonous tasks thrust upon the shoulders of the newly appointed Grand Duchess Dio had begun to take a toll on Lady Ashter, making her daily responsibilities increasingly unbearable. Therefore, as soon as the skies cleared and a welcome respite from her duties emerged on the horizon, Rosalie wasted no time in seizing the opportunity to grant herself a well-deserved day of rest. With brisk determination, she departed from the mansion, yearning for a change of scenery and a refreshing stroll around the vast estate.

As she drew near the training grounds, a distant clanking of blades echoed in the air. She leisurely approached the source of the sound, curiosity piqued by the spectacle unfolding before her eyes. There, amidst the picturesque landscape, she beheld Sir Logan, dressed rather lightly for the weather, his chest bared to the elements, while the loose fabric of his shirt fluttered in rhythm with his every movement. He was locked in a spirited battle of blades with Illai, whose damp crimson locks clung to his perspiring face as he valiantly defended himself against the relentless onslaught of the knight’s vigorous attacks.

Look at them together... They are indeed like brothers. I’m truly pleased that Logan offered his guidance to Illai; under such exceptional mentorship, the boy is bound to evolve into one of the most formidable warriors in the future.’

As Rosalie came into view, Illai promptly abandoned his training sword and sprinted toward her, much like an eager puppy awaiting its owner’s return. He enveloped her waist in a warm, affectionate embrace, using the soft fabric of her winter coat to wipe the sweat from his brow.

"Hey, you can’t just drop everything and dash over like that, Illai!"

Logan raised his voice in a commanding tone, then swiftly retrieved two thick, hand-knitted shawls from a nearby wooden bench. He hurriedly followed after Illai, his eyes pleading and apologetic, as if seeking Lady Ashter’s understanding.

"I apologize, My Lady. It seems the young lad still requires a considerable amount of discipline."

With an affectionate scoff, Rosalie gently patted Illai’s head and freed herself from his warm embrace, and draped one of the shawls received from the knight over the kid’s shoulders. Afterward, she settled onto the closest wooden bench, sheltered beneath the expansive, adjustable roof that shielded the training grounds from the encroaching snow. Finally, she addressed the boy,

"So, Illai, how are you finding your training under Sir Logan’s guidance? Are the lessons in swordsmanship proving to be challenging for you?"

Illai appeared on the verge of delivering a rather pessimistic response, but before he could utter a word, Logan gently rapped his head and tactfully covered his mouth with the shawl. He then offered Lady Ashter a somewhat sheepish smile as he replied instead,

"Well, there is no denying he possesses potential, but discipline is a quality sorely lacking. Worry not, My Lady, I shall ensure he receives proper training in a mere year!"

Such a response brimming with promise and optimism elicited another soft chuckle from Rosalie. She nodded, graciously accepting Sir Logan’s pledge.

"That’s perfectly acceptable, Sir Logan. After all, he is still just a child. Please, exercise patience with him."

A somewhat awkward silence lingered in the aftermath of her response, and the atmosphere among them appeared to shift in a slightly tense direction. The knight maintained his watchful gaze on Lady Ashter’s visibly fatigued demeanor, while she, in turn, continued to embrace Illai, ensuring he stayed warm. Finally, Logan released a subtle sigh and spoke once more,

"I beg your pardon if I am overstepping, My Lady, but is everything in order? I understand the daily responsibilities of the mistress of the house can become quite overwhelming. If there is anything any of us can assist you with, please do not hesitate to seek our aid. We are all dedicated to serving the Dio family, and you are now an integral part of it."

Rosalie hesitated, her inner conflict evident. On one hand, she yearned to maintain her diligent composure, but on the other, an overwhelming desire to unburden the weight of her thoughts gnawed at her. She knew that opening up might make her appear vulnerable and less capable, but her mind had already resolved to cast aside her reservations.

"Well, truth be told, I’ve encountered a rather vexing obstacle in my pursuit of advancing my charitable endeavors. It’s been weighing on my mind since then."

"May I inquire as to the nature of this obstacle?"

With a weary sigh, Rosalie nodded and continued,

"I need to locate individuals willing to pledge their support to my cause – sponsors, essentially."

"Rosalie, have you ever met with Lord Xarden?"

Both Rosalie and Logan’s attention shifted toward Illai as he unexpectedly interjected with the mention of that name. Lady Ashter arched her eyebrows, her head shaking slowly as she attempted to recall if the name held any significance to her.

"No, I don’t believe I’ve ever come across that name before."

Illai nonchalantly shrugged his shoulders, adjusting the thick shawl draped over him as he continued,

"He’s a kind-hearted gentleman who used to visit the orphanage and generously shower the children with presents during the holidays. He was the only one who did that. Perhaps he could be of help."

Emerging from the initial state of bewilderment triggered by the boy’s unexpected yet oddly helpful remark, Lady Ashter turned her widened gaze toward Logan. In response, the knight nonchalantly scratched his chin and gazed ahead, his words flowing casually,

"Hmm... Viscount Theo Xarden does ring a bell. He’s a well-known benefactor who has a penchant for investing in meaningful endeavors, though he seldom seeks recognition. It’s this very trait that has made him quite renowned within noble circles."

Rosalie’s eyes lit up with newfound excitement and hope, her enthusiasm nearly bursting forth as she exclaimed,

"How can I arrange a meeting with him?"

Surprised by the sudden burst of enthusiasm, Logan leaned back slightly, creating some distance between himself and Lady Ashter. He then released another sigh and ran his fingers through his long, fiery hair,

"Though he is relatively young, Viscount Theo Xarden lives in seclusion, with his manor situated on the western outskirts of the Capital, if my memory serves me right. Nevertheless, he frequents the largest bookshop in the shopping district. If fate smiles upon you, you might encounter him there on a weekend."

Lady Ashter’s gaze remained fixed on the unchanging scenery before her, her thoughts gradually turning inward as she silently contemplated,

’I don’t recall any mention of that name in the novel, but... If Logan vouches for him as a good man, perhaps it’s worth attempting to meet with him. After all, if the Empire’s most significant benefactor lends support, others may not hesitate to follow suit, right?’