The Villainess's Secret Bedroom Service
Chapter 133: A Benevolent Heart

Chapter 133: A Benevolent Heart

"That Grand Duchess girl... Did you happen to notice it as well? The crimson aura enveloped her like a radiant veil. It is quite unexpected that she would be the one to be involved in this too."

Seated atop the bed, Roksolana gracefully crossed her legs and delicately rested her open palms upon her knees. With a serene expression, she closed her eyes as though preparing for meditation. Meanwhile, Rostan observed his sister’s audacious claim on his bed before pivoting and leaning against the pristine window frame. He folded his arms across his chest, contemplating the scene before him.

The accommodations designated for the Imperial twins as guests were situated in the eastern wing of the Main Palace. These chambers afforded them a captivating view, commanding a sweeping perspective of the Imperial Gardens. These gardens, which unfurled across the expansive grounds, were the exclusive domain of the Imperial Family.

Rostan’s emerald eyes were fixed firmly upon this scenic view, as he observed the Imperial Princess strolling leisurely amidst the verdant splendor. She held Duchess Rosalie Dio by the arm, and her grip appeared almost possessive, as if she were reluctant to release her companion.

"The two of them seem remarkably close."

With a subtle expression of vexation, the prince clicked his tongue, conveying a hint of the inner turmoil that churned within him. Then, at last, he decided to respond to his sister,

"Yes, I did indeed observe that as well. There is an undeniable air of disquiet about her. It manages to both unsettle and pique my curiosity."

With a playful glint, she opened one of her eyes, allowing a sly smile to gently tug at her plump, crimson lips. Her response carried a touch of teasing, almost mocking, undertone,

"Oh-ho! You are not suggesting we return home with your prospective bride in tow already, are you? Do exercise caution, Rostan. Remember, our purpose here does not revolve around such matters. And besides... If she is indeed a lost soul, there is little to gain from pursuing such a prospect. It is a... rather lamentable situation."

Once again, her brother expressed his displeasure with an audible click of his tongue. His countenance now bore a distinct shade of irritation.

"Tsk. As unfeeling as ever. You would not know love even if it crushed your chest, dear sister."

He proceeded to rub his temples, his gaze returning to the window, though the princess and her companion were no longer in sight. He then continued his train of thought,

"The Duchess possesses both intelligence and a generous spirit. She is worth more than a score of the Emperor’s concubines combined. It is truly regrettable that she is already married. However... Well, let’s observe how our circumstances unfold here."

***

The dinner in the company of the Emperor and the Izaar twins passed in the blink of an eye. The twins, adept conversationalists, had a way of making time rush by, leaving everyone with a sense that the evening had slipped through their fingers far too quickly. As the moment for the Emperor’s departure approached, a mild sense of bewilderment settled upon them all.

The princess, with an inviting smile, extended a new offer,

"Would the two of you care to join Rosalie and me on the terrace for some evening wine? My father’s schedule may be demanding, but that needn’t compel us to depart just yet. That is, if you are not too fatigued, of course."

Angelica extended a warm, inviting smile, met by the twins with subtle yet affirming smiles of their own, accompanied by a nod of agreement.

"Absolutely, it sounds truly delightful."

And so, accompanied by two servants from each party, the quartet made their way to the Palace’s terrace. There, they were greeted by the cool, invigorating caress of the spring evening breeze, which welcomed them with a pleasantly refreshing embrace.

Seated around a circular table on the terrace, Angelica’s servants skillfully arranged an enticing platter laden with an assortment of delectable cheeses and ripe fruits. This spread was complemented by the presence of four exquisite crystal wine glasses and an array of four bottles filled with crisp white wine. With the departure of the servants from the terrace, Rostan gracefully lifted his glass and directed his words toward both the princess and Rosalie.

"Your Highness, Your Grace... It appears that we have spent the entire evening ensnared in the tedium of political discourse with His Majesty, regrettably overlooking the most crucial purpose that has united us here."

He cast a swift glance toward Roksolana, who responded in kind with a subtle nod of agreement. Then, turning his emerald eyes upon Rosalie’s countenance, he continued with an earnest glow,

"Let us extend the splendor of this evening with a toast, celebrating your remarkable philanthropic achievements! The two of you, dear ladies, now stand among the most esteemed figures not only within the borders of Rische but also far beyond."

With a loud clink resonating from the collision of four glasses, the youthful assembly raised their drinks in unison, a heartfelt toast acknowledging the triumph of Lady Ashter’s benevolent pursuits.

"Your Grace,"

Roksolana, after indulging in a generous sip that left her glass empty, leaned in closer to the table. Her almond-shaped eyes remained unwaveringly fixed upon the duchess as she inquired further,

"Could you please enlighten us about the motivation behind your choice to initiate this charitable endeavor? We have heard murmurs that the denizens of Rische aren’t particularly inclined toward generosity when it concerns assisting others."

Rosalie had anticipated that Rostan would chastise his sister for her unfounded accusation. Surprisingly, however, no harsh brotherly reprimand ensued. Instead, the prince directed his penetrating gaze toward the lady’s confused face, as if urging her to respond more swiftly.

"Well... While it is undeniably true that some individuals possess a greater inclination for generosity than others, often, the root issue lies in their inability to discern where their assistance is truly required. In fact, had it not been for a series of unforeseen events, I myself might have remained oblivious to those who were in dire need of help."

The duchess paused, her gaze carefully assessing the reaction of the twins, who, in turn, remained unusually silent, seemingly anticipating her further explanation. Slightly vexed by their reticence, she released a brief sigh, readying herself to resume speaking.

’Goodness, I cannot believe I am trying to justify the other greedy noblemen. What a nuisance.’

Amused by Rosalie’s earnestness, Rostan could not contain himself any longer and a soft chuckle escaped his lips. He leaned back in his chair, and his hands came together in applause.

"My, my! Your Grace! What an extraordinary display of benevolence! It is truly remarkable that your heart possesses the capacity to embrace the significance of spreading love and care throughout the Empire, even at the cost of your own resources... Your reputation certainly does not do you justice, My Lady!"

As the effusive praise washed over her, Rosalie could not help but feel a warm flush of crimson color her otherwise pale cheeks. She was not one to seek out accolades, but she could not deny the satisfaction of knowing that the name Rosalie Ashter had now become synonymous with philanthropic endeavors that extended well beyond the borders of Rische.

Angelica opted to join the ongoing conversation as well,

"Well, Your Highness, Rosalie did not undertake these acts of kindness seeking acknowledgment. Her heart genuinely overflows with compassion, enough to extend to anyone in need. If one were unaware of her human status, they might presume she is—"

"A Saintess?"

Roksolana decided to add her perspective, her lips curving into a new, sly smile as her gaze locked onto Angelica’s startled countenance. The princess, taken aback, experienced a subtle tremor in her hands, compelling her to withdraw them from her glass and discreetly conceal them beneath the table while averting her gaze.

Rosalie, too, could not help but be disconcerted by the mention of that particular word. The absence of the novel’s female lead still weighed heavily on her mind, leaving her uneasy whenever discussions veered toward matters concerning the saints. Now, observing Angelica’s evident distress mirroring her own disquiet, it seemed as if something far weightier lurked beneath the surface of the seemingly altered narrative.

Perhaps finding some amusement in the reactions around the table, Rostan allowed a smirk to play upon his lips. He followed this with another generous sip of wine, gently setting the glass down, and clearing his throat in preparation for his next words.

"In Izaar, we firmly uphold the belief that anyone has the potential to become a Saint. Special abilities need not be a prerequisite for saving lives; oftentimes, it is as simple as opening one’s heart and sharing the warmth within."

He momentarily paused, his emerald eyes captivated by the glistening remnants of wine under the brilliant moonlight. Then, a warm smile graced his features as he continued to elaborate,

"That is precisely why, Your Grace, Duchess Rosalie, we extend a personal invitation, asking you to grace Izaar with your presence and impart to us the wisdom of your benevolent heart."

"I beg your pardon?"

"Yes, you heard correctly. We would like to extend an invitation for you to visit Izaar, Your Grace."