The Villainess's Secret Bedroom Service
Chapter 81: Imperial Library

Chapter 81: Imperial Library

Within the heart of the Imperial Palace, unfolded the resplendent expanse of the Imperial Library. Bathed in a gentle, warm radiance, the air was laden with the scent of aged parchment and polished wood. Majestic shelves, ornately carved, reached skyward, housing a treasure trove of knowledge spanning ages.

Sunlight danced through stained glass windows, casting kaleidoscopic patterns upon the rows of meticulously arranged tomes. A serene hush enveloped the space, inviting seekers of wisdom to wander through the quiet alcoves. Each book, a sentinel of history and imagination, beckoned with whispered promises of adventure and enlightenment in this haven of knowledge and tranquility.

"It’s been quite some time, Rosalie!"

Angelica enveloped Rosalie in a warm and friendly hug, her smile radiating genuine affection. This marked their first reunion since the impromptu outing they shared in the bustling Shopping District of the Capital. Amidst the whirlwind of events that followed, the sight of the princess once again brought an undeniable sense of relief to Lady Ashter’s wearied and burdened heart.

Upon receiving Angelica’s letter, Rosalie’s initial trepidation melted away. The invitation to the Imperial Palace had stirred worries of potential unfavorable news – perhaps concerning her title or the fate of the cherished charity fund. However, as the princess led her into the embrace of the Imperial Library, an expansive sanctuary within Rische, a serene aura enveloped Rosalie and she stood poised to embrace tidings of any nature.

"I can sense your curiosity, dear Rosalie; it’s practically radiating from your eyes. You’re eager to unravel the purpose behind my summoning, aren’t you?"

Settling into her seat behind the long wooden desk adorning the library’s second floor, the princess positioned two substantial, aged tomes before her companion. With a seamless continuation, she elaborated,

"As per your request, I’ve engaged in discussions concerning the establishment of the charity fund with esteemed members of the Imperial treasury. To be honest, the task does not appear as daunting as one might think. Lord Tairon has committed to aiding you in the transformation of your family’s assets into more manageable funds. Meanwhile, the weight of my influence will suffice to officially register the charity as a viable and recognized organization."

Lady Ashter felt an immense burden lift from her shoulders in an instant. This fund, she recognized, could be the singular achievement that she would excel at in this world. It had the potential to stand as her sole legacy, a positive testament to her existence. The warmth of this realization settled deep within her, embracing her heart with its unfathomable coziness.

"Angelica, I’m truly grateful. Your assistance in this matter means the world to me. Navigating such intricate affairs is a challenge beyond my grasp, and having a dear friend like you by my side, lending a hand, it honestly feels like a miracle."

"Don’t speak of yourself that way, Rosalie!"

With a forceful exclamation, Angelica’s words reverberated through the tranquil expanse of the library, akin to a sudden bolt of lightning. Swiftly pivoting her entire body, she directed her attention fully toward Rosalie, her hands gently enveloping hers.

"In the Empire of Rische, there are limited avenues available to us women. Even my late mother, a fleeting silhouette beside the Emperor, couldn’t break that mold. Yet, what you’re embarking upon is an endeavor that even the Holy Temple couldn’t accomplish. It’s undeniably admirable. I’m truly thankful to be a part of this, Rosalie, and I’m committed to smoothing the path for you. You see, if not for you, my existence might have remained forever devoid of purpose."

A subtle yet uplifting smile graced the princess’s lips, momentarily thawing Lady Ashter’s heart. The weight that had gripped her since her last conversation with Damien in the graveyard seemed to lessen, as this gesture proved to be a balm to her inner coldness.

"Now, tell me, are you filled with excitement?"

Angelica’s sudden question yanked Rosalie from the depths of her inner musings, prompting a quirk of her eyebrows in mild confusion.

"Excited? About what?"

The princess’s response mirrored the same perplexity.

"How do you mean? Your wedding, naturally! The date has been at last decided!"

Lady Ashter couldn’t stifle a shoulder-shrug, her lips bending into a somewhat awkward smile.

"Well... As you know, His Grace is departing for the Northern border on the following day, so... The wedding will essentially be a formality."

Angelica’s disappointment breathed out in a subdued sigh, her head gently shaking in clear disapproval at the unfortunate twist of fate.

"Loyd is slated to command this campaign. As my father’s words go, this is his ’initiation.’ Yet, we’re all astute enough to recognize that it’s the Grand Duke who will act as the shield at the vanguard, not my brother."

With a soft but firm strike, her pale, delicate fist met the wooden tabletop, nearly punctuating her words. Her voice carried a tone of exasperation, her gaze directed at her friend, a fusion of ire and urgency present in her furrowed brows.

"Does this not incense you even slightly?! How can he dispatch the duke to the battlefield right after his wedding?! And what of your own predicament? I’m utterly furious!"

Rosalie comprehended the sentiment driving the princess’s words. Nonetheless, even though this military campaign held no place within the central plot of "Acme Fever," as the narrative persisted beyond, her conviction remained steadfast that Damien would return unscathed. To her, her own part in this intricate scheme seemed quite inconsequential, a conclusion drawn chiefly from the somber discourse Damien had shared at his parents’ final resting place.

Hence, donning yet another uneasy smile that tugged at her lips, Lady Ashter shifted her gaze elsewhere and retorted, her tone adopting a measured, almost detached chilliness,

"Everything will unfold without a hitch. Both the Crown Prince and the Grand Duke wield ample strength and prowess to emerge triumphant. Truly, there is no need for concern."

"I suppose you are right..."

Angelica formed a playful pout, reclining in her chair momentarily before abruptly springing to her feet. She darted toward one of the towering shelves positioned behind them, her gaze sweeping the room, assessing the sanctity of their surroundings. Once assured of their seclusion, the princess extracted a book – not overly thick, but endowed with impressive dimensions – its dark red cover emanating a distinct allure. With a mirthful giggle akin to a child engaging in a forbidden yet audacious exploit, she set the volume on the desk in front of her friend and exclaimed,

"Here! I’ve hidden it here before your arrival. Regardless of the grandeur of your wedding ceremony, what comes next is equally important!"

Caught off-guard by Angelica’s unexpectedly roguish conduct, Lady Ashter cast her a mildly reproachful look before finally allowing her gray eyes to fall upon the book, widening in utter shock as they read its title.

"What in the world... Angelica!"