Chapter 14
Thanks to the Crown Prince, another line has been added to my dark history. Why on earth must the embarrassment and shame be mine alone?
“For Ruberia! For His Royal Highness the Crown Prince!”
“Goddess of War! Protect Ruberia!”
I glared at Ludwig, who was receiving the enthusiastic cheers of the crowd. He was waving his hand with a confident smile.
‘He has the exact look of someone who would found a nation purely on eloquence. It’s infuriating, but even in the midst of this, I was so moved that a tear almost came to my eye.’
Ludwig took the lead and entered through the iron gates of the Royal Library. Calix, William, and I followed closely behind him.
Although the iron gates closed tightly, the people’s cheers did not easily subside.
***
As we crossed the garden leading to the library’s entrance hall, I finally caught my breath.
“Your Royal Highness, I won’t ever forget today as long as I live.”
“There’s no need for thanks. It was merely showing my heart that cherishes you.”
Ludwig flashed a sly smile.
‘This man is seriously drinking kimchi soup all by himself.’*
[T/N: Idiom with a similar meaning to “counting their chickens before they hatch”]
“I had no intention of thanking you in the first place. But wasn’t my identity supposed to be a secret?”
“It seems the enemy already knows who you are anyway, so what’s the point of hiding it?”
Ludwig shrugged his shoulders with an innocent expression, as if to ask what the problem was.
I was so utterly flabbergasted that I lost my words.
Calix, who had been keeping silent, let out a sigh that sounded like a lament.
“It seems I overestimated you, Your Highness.”
Calix’s expression looked like an active volcano bubbling right before an explosion.
“I never expected you to blow things out of proportion to this extent. Did you even consider Erika’s personal safety?”
Calix’s voice was low and dark, echoing like a deep cave. It was enough to evoke the growling of a bloodthirsty magical beast.
Of course, it didn’t work on the Crown Prince, whose head was a field of flowers.
“What is there to worry about when we have you, the greatest knight in Ruberia?”
“…….”
‘Wait a minute, Your Highness! Can’t you see the Grand Duke’s eyes flipping right now? I definitely saw it. Calix is bringing his hand to his sword!’
I tightly grabbed his hand. At this rate, something truly terrible was going to happen.
As if feeling the warmth of my hand, Calix looked down at me with a questioning gaze.
Giving him a benevolent smile that conveyed I understood everything, I softly whispered to him.
“Calm down, Grand Duke. I’m asking you as a friend, please?”
Come to think of it, this was the first time I had ever used friendship like this to urge someone. Even in reality, I had never said such blatantly embarrassing words.
Surprisingly, it worked, and Calix’s hand slid away from his sword.
William stepped forward with a hollow smile, as if he had given up on everything.
“The strategy of shifting the public’s attention by creating a new hero isn’t bad, but… using my precious employee was careless of you.”
Ludwig pouted his lips as if displeased.
“What is with these reactions? This is impudent. Aren’t you two my direct vassals? What on earth is your relationship with Librarian Erika that makes you act like this?”
“She is the benefactor of my family.”
“I am her guardian.”
As if they had been waiting, Calix and William answered at the same time. The Crown Prince looked at me like a child coveting a friend’s toy.
“This makes me jealous. To capture the hearts of my loyal subjects who have shared life and death with me so quickly.”
“I have no need for either of them, so you may take them, Your Highness. For now, let’s quickly head inside.”
‘My commute to work is exceptionally exhausting today. I sincerely want to resign.’
As we opened the heavy entrance doors and walked in, Madame Marian and Librarian Rose were waiting for us at the information desk.
“Ah, it’s been a while since……”
Before I could even finish greeting them, Rose charged toward me, her dress fluttering. Her terrifying momentum was such that even the three men instinctively flinched out of the way.
She grabbed my shoulders, shook them, and began dumping a barrage of questions on me.
“Lady Erika! Is it true?! That you were Grand Duke Reinhardt’s lady, and the Goddess of War who saved the people during the magical beast attack?!”
Rose, clutching an extra edition of the newspaper, shouted in pure excitement.
“Everything is wrong. I am neither the Grand Duke’s lady nor the Goddess of War.”
I firmly corrected Rose’s words. Rose handed over the extra edition with an unbelieving expression.
“But the article here says!”
“Calm down, Rose.”
Madame Marian stepped in, seemingly feeling sorry for me as I was pinned down by Rose.
“We will hear the details later. Librarian Erika needs to have an audience with His Royal Highness first.”
Madame Marian bowed politely to the Crown Prince.
“It is an honor to have you visit again, Your Royal Highness. We have prepared a place in the drawing room, so please head up first. Librarian Rose, please guide His Highness.”
Following Rose’s guidance, the Crown Prince, William, and Calix headed up to the drawing room first.
Madame Marian turned her gaze to me. She smiled like a mother looking at a proud and admirable child.
She bowed her head slightly to greet me.
“You have raised the status and honor of the Royal Library. Thank you.”
“Not at all. It was only what I ought to do.”
Straightening her posture, Madame Marian soon wore a strict expression, like a mother worrying about her child.
“But it was a dangerous action. What if you had been hurt? Be careful from now on. The most important thing is Librarian Erika’s safety. And……”
Sensing that this lecture wouldn’t end if it kept going, I smiled brightly and changed the subject.
“Thank you for your concern. I will keep your words in mind. Then, I will head up first.”
“Oh dear, look at my mind. His Highness must be waiting. Go on up quickly.”
After saying goodbye, I practically ran up the stairs as if escaping.
***
When I knocked and entered the drawing room, the three men were sitting around, leisurely drinking tea.
Seeing them look so completely relaxed made me lose my energy a bit, but as I was about to sit in a remaining chair, the Crown Prince set down his teacup.
“Librarian Erika, welcome. Will you accept my heart here?”
Before I knew it, Ludwig forced a gorgeous basket of roses into my arms. Calix had a sour expression, clearly displeased.
“It is a flower dedicated to the Goddess of War. I personally selected only the most beautiful roses from the imperial garden.”
“Ah, yes. I will accept them with gratitude.”
‘Give me wealth rather than men, no, rather than flowers, you world-oblivious Crown Prince.’
William set down his teacup and let out a deep sigh.
“Your Highness, I apologize for interrupting the pleasantries, but you must attend the State Council meeting immediately. The ministers are waiting.”
“They all need to cultivate some patience. Can’t they even wait that long for the Crown Prince who has returned from fighting magical beasts?”
‘It’s already been a few days, what do you mean. And there’s no one here who hasn’t fought a magical beast.’
I pouted inwardly.
Sitting with his legs crossed in the armchair, Ludwig threw out a question as lazily as if he were asking about a banquet menu.
“Director William, report to me about the magical beast attack incident.”
William straightened his posture and began to speak.
“First, the cause of the magical beasts appearing at the jousting arena is under investigation. There must be a reason why the barrier of dimensions became unstable. For now, the mages are working at full capacity to stabilize the barrier.”
Ludwig smacked his lips and nodded.
“As expected, it won’t be easy to find the cause right away. What happened to the annex library?”
“As a result of investigating the bodies of the deceased soldiers, the theft of the <Book of Ignis> is estimated to have occurred around the same time the magical beasts appeared at the arena.”
The Crown Prince seemed unbothered, as if he already knew about the theft of the magic book.
“In the end, they stole a magic book again. I thought they would target the Royal Library first, but the annex library instead. The enemy’s intelligence is remarkable, isn’t it? The fact that a magic book was kept there is top secret. Knowing to that extent, we could even suspect an inside job.”
Ludwig said, casting his gaze toward Calix. Calix nodded heavily.
“I will thoroughly investigate anyone who could possibly be involved.”
William continued his report.
“The silver chain, which is the magic tracking device installed on the <Book of Ignis>, was found in the northern forest. The mages are verifying the type of magic power left on the silver chain, but it is expected to take a considerable amount of time before the results come out.”
With those words, a serious and heavy atmosphere weighed down upon the drawing room. It was hard to even breathe loudly.
The first to open his mouth was, of course, the Crown Prince.
“Where there is bad news, there is also good news. Calling Librarian Erika today was to deliver good news.”
Ah, I had completely forgotten. There was a reason why I absolutely had to show up to work at the Royal Library today.
The shock of seeing the fanatical crowd praising me as the Goddess of War must have been too great.
Ludwig looked at me with a bright smile.
‘Ah, seeing that smiling face gives me an ominous premonition. My ominous feelings have never been wrong.’
“As of today, you are appointed as the Chief Librarian of the Royal Library.”
‘As expected, my intuition is science. An ominous premonition is never wrong.’
William was genuinely happy as he kindly explained.
“His Highness highly evaluated Librarian Erika’s abilities as a Book Reader and your heroic actions at the jousting arena, and has approved it. My sincere congratulations.”
Even though I was promoted, I couldn’t even force a smile.
‘What do you take me for, someone with five years of professional experience. A promotion in an emergency situation? Just how much are you planning to overwork me?’
Ludwig found my expression amusing.
“You are the first vassal to look so annoyed after I gave a promotion.”
“Because my life goal is to live quietly, gently, and long.”
Ludwig brightened up, looking delighted.
“Oh, that’s the same as me! That’s my goal too. Sadly, it’s a dream I will never be able to achieve in my lifetime.”
Despite possessing all power and wealth, the Crown Prince let out a rueful sigh.
I shook my head inwardly.
‘That Crown Prince would definitely suit being an actor better, for sure.’
Looking back, Calix was smiling happily. His smile was so dazzling that I could only blink my eyes blankly.
“Erika, congratulations from the bottom of my heart on being appointed Chief Librarian.”
Then, he naturally took my hand and tried to politely kiss the back of it.
“Ahem!”
At that moment, William purposely cleared his throat loudly, showing his displeasure.
Taking advantage of the gap, I quickly hid my hand behind my back.
“Grand Duke Reinhardt, as Miss Erika’s guardian, I cannot permit excessive physical contact.”
The Crown Prince, who was watching us, subtly chimed in.
“Then how about I bestow a kiss of congratulation upon Chief Librarian Erika?”
“That is even more out of the question, Your Highness.”
Calix glared at Ludwig with wide eyes. He shrugged his shoulders and spoke like a singing troubadour.
“How has my cold-blooded knight become a blind fool blinded by love. May God have mercy on you, who are so foolish as to not know that love is the source of both happiness and misfortune.”
‘I feel like I’m the one at the start of misfortune.’
Instead of sighing, I drank down the cooled tea in one gulp.
‘I had intended to lie low as a librarian to avoid the rebel forces, but the scale is getting bigger and bigger.’
“You mentioned that you had good news and bad news to share with me. Now please tell me the bad news.”
Ludwig slapped his knee as if remembering late.
“My, I completely forgot. I was so excited about delivering your promotion news that I lost track.”
Ludwig wore a smile like a wicked villain plotting a massive conspiracy.
“You must accompany me to the palace right now and attend the State Council meeting, Chief Librarian Erika.”
“……Pardon?”
I doubted my ears, unable to believe it.
William sighed and bowed his head, while Calix turned his face away with a sorrowful expression.
‘You want me to attend the State Council meeting of the House of Lords, which is basically hell? Why me?’
***
As we left the Royal Library, an express carriage to hell—no, the royal carriage—was waiting.
It was a carriage drawn by four sleek white horses, and the crest of the Kingdom of Ruberia was painted on the door.
The silver roof and wheels of the carriage flashed brilliantly with ornaments crafted from gold and jewels.
I boarded the carriage with the mindset of a cow being dragged to a slaughterhouse. With a half-rotten expression, I glared at the Crown Prince and William sitting across from me.
Calix decided to ride a horse and escort the carriage.
The Director pulled out a stack of documents and was reviewing them intently, while the Crown Prince observed me with a leisurely smile.
“Come to think of it, this is Librarian Erika’s first time at the royal palace, right?”
“Yes. I thought I would never go there in my life, but here I am visiting like this.”
In the original novel, the only time Erika went to the palace was when she was interrogated as a member of the rebel forces.
The trip to the palace turned into a trip to the afterlife. That’s why I don’t even look in the direction of the palace, fearing it might bring bad luck.
“Don’t be nervous. You’ll be going often from now on.”
The Crown Prince said smoothly, as if to reassure me. Obliviously.
The carriage rolled smoothly past the capital’s main avenue toward the palace on the hill.
The comfortable ride was quite nice, so I was about to close my eyes to get some sleep, but the Crown Prince spoke to me again.
“Since the journey is boring, shall I tell you a story?”
“Sigh. Do as you wish.”
“Just as you told me the history of the Royal Library, I shall tell you the history of this country.”
Ludwig turned his gaze out the carriage window, looking at the streets with a distant look in his eyes.
“As you know, our Ruberia is renowned throughout the continent as a great nation of the north. However, hundreds of years ago, we suffered from endless invasions by neighboring countries coveting our fertile land and resources. It was the first king, Julius I, who brought an end to those long wars.”
I had read the founding history books of Ruberia at the library.
Ruberia possessed a vast territory overflowing with silver mines, and its land was fertile thanks to many rivers.
Because of that, it used to suffer from constant wars of invasion during the era when great powers vied for hegemony.
I heard that Julius I ruled the kingdom peacefully with overwhelming charisma, making it a powerful nation and earning the respect of his people.
Ludwig stared blankly at the scenery of the capital passing by.
“……There is a truth that is not recorded in history.”
“What do you mean by that……?”
“Julius I was a king who possessed martial might akin to a god of war. He subjugated the continent through the power of magical beasts.”
Ludwig’s tone was so peaceful that it took me a moment to grasp the meaning of his words.
Belatedly, a chill ran down my spine.
“To, to use the power of magical beasts. Is such a thing possible?”
In an instant, the image of a magical beast listening to my commands flashed through my mind. I had never dreamed in my wildest thoughts that one could utilize the power of a magical beast.
But a king of Ruberia had already used that power hundreds of years ago?
If so, then could I also……?
Did he think the trembling in my voice was due to fear?
Ludwig softened his expression as if to reassure me.
“Hundreds of years ago was an era when magic held far greater power than it does now. Julius I took the greatest mage of the time as his queen. Through her power, they controlled magical beasts to conquer the continent. This truth is recorded solely in the royal history books. It wouldn’t be good for future generations to know that the king used the power of magical beasts. Even within the royal family, only a select few know this truth.”
‘Are you allowed to just tell me something like that?’
William, who had only been looking at documents, raised his head.
“That Ruberia became one of the leading powerful nations was thanks to the magical beasts.”
To hide my trembling emotions, I threw out a question.
“In the history books, it said that valiant knights risked their lives to fight magical beasts, and Julius I blocked the crack that appeared in the dimensional barrier of the Kral Mountains. It’s completely different, isn’t it?”
William and the Crown Prince briefly exchanged glances.
A deep-seated guilt cast a shadow over the Crown Prince’s face.
Was this the original sin that the kings of Ruberia had to bear from generation to generation?
“Parts of it are true. The predecessors unleashed magical beasts upon enemy nations, made the knighthood march out pretending to defeat them, and closed the gap in the dimensional barrier, allowing Ruberia to prevent chaos on the continent. After that, Ruberia solidified its position as a powerful nation that guards the barrier and holds the Five Great Grimoires. Neighboring nations, fearing the magical beasts, didn’t start wars either.”
“……In the end, it was a history built upon the power of magical beasts.”
At my murmur, the Crown Prince offered a faint smile.
“After Julius I and the Queen passed away, the power to control magical beasts vanished as well. It was peaceful for hundreds of years, but magical beasts began to appear again twenty years ago. As if a wicked curse of the magical beasts had been resurrected late, seven years ago, my brother also… fell victim to the magical beasts.”
The false peace created by the power of magical beasts was slowly shattering.
Seven years ago, after the Crown Prince at the time, Richard, was killed by a magical beast, the current king stopped eating and drinking, becoming bedridden. Yet, the magical beasts did not disappear and continued to emerge.
The interior of the carriage fell into a heavy silence. Only the steady clattering sound of the wheels could be heard.
I barely managed to carefully utter a word.
“Are you telling me this top-secret information because I am a Book Reader?”
The Crown Prince’s gaze shifted from outside the window toward me. It was a straight and steady gaze.
“No.”
It was a gaze as pure and unadorned as a young boy’s.
“Because I trust and rely on you.”
***
Beyond the main avenue, the royal palace began to come into view.
The pure white palace was surrounded by high spires and castle walls, exuding a solemn atmosphere. It felt imposing, as if looking down upon the royal capital from atop the hill.
The carriage ascended the hill path leading to the palace gates. A tall, magnificent tower and a thick, high wall designed for a defensive stance blocked our front.
As we crossed the drawbridge, the guards saluted in unison. The carriage drove to the west of the palace and stopped in front of a massive building constructed in a shrine-like architectural style.
“Welcome to the House of Lords, Librarian Erika.”
Stepping down from the carriage, the Crown Prince smiled and gestured for me to enter.
The court aide, who had been waiting anxiously in front of the House of Lords, spotted the Crown Prince and hurried over in a fluster.
“Your Highness the Crown Prince, you have arrived. Everyone is waiting. Please step this way.”
William and Calix silently followed behind the Crown Prince as he entered the House of Lords. Walking in step with my boss, William, I softly asked a question.
“So this is where the State Council meeting is held? What kind of meetings do they usually have?”
William adjusted his glasses. The lenses glinted sharply.
“A State Council meeting attended by cabinet-level nobles is held every month, and regular briefings take place daily. It is a place that is a meeting hell all year round.”
‘Good heavens. I’ve never seen a company that does nothing but hold meetings all day long do well.’
Stepping inside, a vast marble hall unfolded. Passing through a long corridor carpeted in red, we entered a grand conference hall with its doors wide open.
I was secretly nervous. Because I had imagined what a State Council meeting would look like. Surely, arrogant nobles would be sitting around a large round table in haughty postures.
But the place we actually entered was…
“Where did the document that came up from the Wilhelm fief go?!”
“Bring the crop yield records for this year quickly!”
“Organize the request form for development support from the Viscounty of Berden.”
Coocoo!
“Someone catch that carrier pigeon! And clean up the droppings!”
……It was a business battlefield for salarymen.
The conference hall was said to be divided into a waiting room and the main conference room.
Here in the waiting room, dozens of lower-ranking officials were reviewing or sorting stacks of documents piled high like mountains, looking frantic as they flew carrier pigeons to send or receive letters.
Perhaps because they were so busy, they only gave a formal bow when the Crown Prince entered and quickly refocused on their respective tasks.
Furthermore, two pigeons, which were the carrier pigeons, were crying noisily and flying chaotically around the ceiling of the waiting room.
‘You must have been stressed from working too. Tsk tsk.’
A pigeon feather fluttered down and landed on the Crown Prince’s shoulder. Ludwig brushed the feather away and said cheerfully, “This place is as lively as ever.”
An official carrying an armful of documents and books almost collided with the Crown Prince while passing by his side. His vision seemed to be blocked by the pile of papers, to the point where he didn’t even realize it was the Crown Prince.
“Ah, excuse me.”
“Not at all.”
Accustomed to such situations, the Crown Prince smoothly dodged to the side. Naturally, we also lined up against the wall of the waiting room.
“It really is hell. If I worked in a place like this, I would have run away instantly.”
Seeing people burning their souls to work so busily brought a faint mist to my eyes.
As a fellow worker, I felt a burning sense of camaraderie.
‘Whether in reality or in a novel’s world, earning a living is equally tough everywhere.’
I whispered to the Crown Prince standing next to me.
“Now I understand. The reason why the kingdom runs properly even though you live so freely, Your Highness.”
“Hmph, and what do you think that reason is?”
“Because your vassals grind their bones to work hard.”
At the painful jab, the Crown Prince pretended to be heartbroken.
“That remark hurts a bit. It makes me sound like some rogue royal who only hangs around high society. I also try my best to fulfill my duties and responsibilities.”
William, who had been examining documents while standing next to the Crown Prince, chimed in right on cue.
“Librarian Erika saw it precisely. This place is a battlefield where Ruberia is defended with documents and pens. His Highness the Crown Prince only comes by occasionally for inspection and encouragement.”
“Hey, Chief of Staff. I’m the one who stamps the final approval.”
“Did you think I wouldn’t know that you often leave even the stamping to Grand Duke Reinhardt?”
“Th-that’s……”
‘Tsk tsk, it seems our Director has accumulated a lot against the Crown Prince all this time.’
While William calmly cornered the Crown Prince, I approached the door of the conference room. Through the slightly open door, a fierce meeting was underway.
Nobles who appeared to be ministers were sitting around, engaging in a heated debate as they asserted their respective opinions.
A noble wearing a monocle sitting at the head of the table stood up and was leading the meeting with a charismatic demeanor. Appearing to be middle-aged, he possessed sharp eyes and a stern impression.
“That person is……”
Before I knew it, Calix had approached my side.
“He is Marquis Wilt Reichen, the Chairman of the House of Lords and the Prime Minister.”
“He’s the one who appears in the Introduction to Ruberia Politics textbook, right? He seemed amazing.”
“That’s right. The current House of Lords was practically created by Chairman Reichen. Thanks to him, state affairs are now managed through consultation in the noble council.”
I nodded, recalling the contents of the political textbook.
Originally, Ruberia was said to be an extreme throne-centered system. However, seven years ago, due to an incident where a pack of magical beasts raided the palace, the Crown Prince and the majority of high-ranking nobles perished.
At that time, when the very foundation of royal power and noble society was shaking, Marquis Reichen stepped up to establish the current decision-making system of the House of Lords.
The King, having lost his son, was deeply grieved and unable to properly attend to state affairs, creating a volatile situation where factions even emerged to covet the throne.
Marquis Reichen pulled strings to ensure Ludwig inherited the title of Crown Prince, and established the House of Lords to assist the King’s decision-making, rapidly stabilizing state affairs. Also, in the border regions……
“Ah, right.”
Wearing a meaningful smile, I stared up at Calix.
“You also appear in the political book, Grand Duke.”
Remembering his name which I had discovered in the book, a smile escaped me without my realizing it.
“That by subjugating the magical beasts that appeared in the borderlands, you contributed to continental peace and achieved brilliant feats in expanding Ruberia’s territory to the frontier.”
‘I don’t know why I’m the one feeling so proud and fulfilled.’
To have one’s name listed in Ruberia’s political textbook at the young age of not even thirty, it was understandable why Michael respected his older brother so much.
He stared at me blankly for a moment. And then he soon averted his gaze, looking somewhat embarrassed.
“Defending the nation is a knight’s duty.”
That blunt yet awkward way of speaking. He looks cute, like a large boy receiving praise for the first time in his life.
On the other hand, my heart felt a dull ache.
Why is it that right now, I can see the young back of him who must have fought with the resolve to lay down his life for his nation and family in the borderlands?
He who is large in stature but has a tender and scar-covered heart.
Raising the tips of my toes slightly, I reached my hand toward his broad shoulder. And I patted it gently.
Belatedly, I realized my behavior was far too familiar. I worried beforehand that he might find it rude.
As I tried to quickly pull my hand away from his shoulder, his gaze quietly landed on my hand.
The corners of his mouth softened. Miraculously, just by flashing a brief smile, his impression transformed into that of the gentlest man in the world.
Calix quietly placed his own hand over mine.
A warm body temperature was communicated to one another. Just having his large hand hold mine felt reassuring and warm.
“To receive praise from you, it makes me think for the first time that going out to the battlefield was a good choice.”
As my gaze intertwined with his, a throat-clearing sound came from the side. Unsurprisingly, it was the Crown Prince.
“Ahem, I would appreciate it if you refrained from public displays of affection in the sacred House of Lords.”
“P-public displays of affection? It was encouragement. Encouragement as a friend.”
I hurriedly made an excuse, but the Crown Prince didn’t seem to be listening to my words at all. He rolled his eyes, finding it amusing.
“Hmph, won’t you also encourage me, who am suffering from managing state affairs? A warm embrace would be nice if possible.”
The Crown Prince opened his arms wide and crept toward me.
“I think that’s a bit inappropriate.”
I contemplated seriously for a brief moment.
‘If I just land a kick straight to the Crown Prince’s abdomen, that would be a free pass straight to execution by beheading, right?’
Just then, a dark shadow silently approached behind the Crown Prince’s back. The shadow passionately embraced the Crown Prince from behind.
“Who dares!”
As the Crown Prince turned around in shock, a monocle flashed. It was Marquis Reichen, the Chairman of the House of Lords.
“I was merely encouraging Your Highness for your hard work.”
Chairman Reichen replied nonchalantly. Of course, without releasing the hands wrapped around his waist.
I, along with Calix and William, froze as we watched the Chairman’s brazen backhug. The officials who were busily working also stopped what they were doing with shocked faces.
One might expect him to be horrified by the sudden hug from a middle-aged vassal, but the Crown Prince was no slouch either.
Gently stroking the Chairman’s arm, he flashed a sweet smile.
“As expected, you’re the only one who thinks of me. Thank you for the passionate encouragement.”
‘Ahem, I should seriously contemplate the identity of this book’s genre.’
“Both of you stop playing around.”
Unable to watch any longer, William cleared his throat and stepped forward.
As if nothing had happened, Chairman Reichen straightened his posture and bowed politely to the Crown Prince.
“Your Highness the Crown Prince, thank you for arriving on time.”
He also cast a gaze toward Director William, looking like he was viewing a favored disciple.
“Lord William, seeing you is reassuring.”
Before William could even greet him, the Chairman snapped his fingers. Right on cue, a lower official brought a mountain of approval documents.
“These are the main agendas discussed in the meeting just now. Review them finally and check for any supplementary matters to bring for approval within today. Even dawn doesn’t matter. I also plan to pull an all-nighter at the House of Lords.”
I clearly saw a spasm occur on the lips of the smiling William.
‘Director, hang in there. May you survive the overtime hell.’
I tightly clenched my fist toward William to send him support, but Calix, like a true friend, turned his head away and flashed a cold sneer.
‘You, who enjoy your friend’s misfortune, are truly…’
“By the way, that young lady is……”
Chairman Reichen’s frosty gaze suddenly shifted toward me.
The Chairman snapped his fingers again, and a lower official hastily brought paper and a pen. Everyone’s attention was focused on me and the Chairman.
‘What, is the spark flying over to me too? Am I supposed to work here?’
Tense, I only looked at the paper and pen the Chairman was holding out, when…
“Are you Lady Erika Diel?”
“Yes, that’s correct……?”
“Could you sign here please?”
“Pardon?”
Chairman Reichen adjusted his glasses and continued in a blunt voice.
“My daughter passionately adores Lady Erika. I ask for just one sheet for her sake.”
“I see. Thank you.”
As if pushed, I scribbled my name on the paper. Chairman Reichen gathered my signature, no, autograph, placed it inside his coat, and nonchalantly turned around.
“Then, please enter the State Council chamber.”
The court aide waiting in front of the council door shouted forcefully.
“His Royal Highness Crown Prince Ludwig von Bismarck enters!”
The Crown Prince took a forceful step forward, his splendid red cloak fluttering magnificently. He truly was someone who loved dramatic effects.
“Then, shall we begin the battle.”
The Crown Prince flashed a confident smile toward us.
Of course, I, along with Calix and William, wore expressionless faces, having given up on everything.
***
Upon entering the vast chamber, dozens of nobles stood up all at once and bowed politely to the Crown Prince.
The Crown Prince took his seat at the head of the table. To his right sat Chairman Reichen, and to his left sat Calix, William, and then myself, in that order.
‘Hmm, I’m sitting way too close to the head of the table. Is it because my attendance is only temporary?’
On the outside, I took my seat calmly, but honestly, the sheer pressure made me want to bolt out of the room.
The glances the nobles cast my way were far from pleasant. Their eyes clearly questioned why a mere library librarian was sitting in a place like this.
‘Look, I don’t know why I’m here either, so imagine how I feel.’
Yet, even amidst those piercing glares, there were some nobles who sent friendly glances my way.
Of course, Chairman Reichen wore a deeply proud and gratified expression every single time our eyes met, which was a burden in its own right.
The nobles belonging to the royalist faction seemed to know who I was, offering hospitable looks or nodding in greeting.
‘Is this the result of Ludwig promoting me as the Goddess of War?’
I didn’t know whether to be happy or bitter about it.
My goal was to live quietly as a nameless librarian, but somehow I was heading in the exact opposite direction.
‘This is all because of that Crown Prince.’
I narrowed my eyes into slits and glared at Ludwig. Meeting my gaze, he flashed a completely nonchalant smile.
‘A formidable adversary, indeed.’
I quickly turned my gaze away, pretending not to notice.
Once the Crown Prince was seated, the nobles sat back down as well. Only then could I verify the faces of the nobles attending the State Council.
I had checked the roster for the council meeting while riding in the carriage.
It was a large-scale meeting where the King’s executive government, the coalition of nobles, and the leadership of the Central Knights—who represented the palace knights—were all gathered in one place. The number of attendees alone reached about thirty.
And, naturally, there was one person who caught my eye first.
Grand Heir Franz.
When I inadvertently cast my gaze his way, Franz flashed a seductive smile at me, looking like a well-fed cat.
‘It’s best not to associate with a pretty lunatic.’
I swiftly averted my eyes.
The attending nobles all had expressions frozen stiff with tension.
As the doors to the council chamber closed, armed imperial guards stood at the front holding spears. The atmosphere was so heavily guarded that it felt as though no one would be permitted to leave until the meeting concluded.
It meant that this particular State Council meeting was being conducted in top secret.
Crown Prince Ludwig clasped his hands together and wore an intriguing smile.
“Ah, I am grateful to my dear Noble Council, the bureaucrats of the executive branch, and the heroes of the Knighthood for attending this gathering. Let us now officially begin the State Council meeting.”
As the Crown Prince declared the opening, Director William walked up to the podium holding a report.
“I shall begin the report on the details regarding the magical beast appearance incident at the jousting arena. A total of fifteen werewolves appeared at the arena, resulting in thirty injuries and zero fatalities. The scale of the arena’s damage is currently being calculated, and the cause of the magical beasts’ appearance is currently under analysis. Furthermore.”
William paused for a moment and looked at the Crown Prince. Ludwig nodded, encouraging him to proceed.
“At the precise time the incident occurred, the <Book of Ignis>, which was stored in the annex library, was stolen. The culprit lured and murdered the library guards, forcefully destroyed the magic tracking device, and took the magic book. We are currently analyzing the magic power left on the tracking device.”
Only after explaining the fine details did William step down from the podium.
The moment the general report concluded, the nobles struck the table with shocked expressions or vied to raise their voices.
“It is horrifying enough that magical beasts appeared in the capital, but a theft of a magic book on top of that? Why on earth do such bizarre events keep happening back-to-back?!”
“What on earth are the mages doing? Is the dimensional barrier even being managed properly?!”
“Another theft! Just how negligent are the Royal Library and Director William?!”
“The news of the magical beasts’ appearance has already spread to other countries. Rumors are even circulating that our kingdom lacks the capability to manage the Five Great Grimoires! Who is going to take responsibility for this?!”
The nobles cried out individually, thrown into a panic as if they had just heard news that Ruberia was going to ruin. Some nobles even clutched their heads.
The only noble who remained calm in the chaotic chamber was Young Lord Franz.
He sat leisurely with his legs crossed, intently watching the Crown Prince. It was like a chess game where one bides their time to capture the king.
The council chamber transformed into a living hell of a battlefield, filled with shouting and sharp arguments. Ludwig rested his chin on his hand, watching the scene with a bored expression.
Slam!!
The Crown Prince struck the table fiercely and bolted up from his seat.
He ascended the podium, looking utterly flawless like a wild beast setting out on a hunt.
“Since you are all in such a state of confusion, I shall personally straighten things out for you.”
At the Crown Prince’s single remark, the chamber fell dead silent as if by a prearranged pact.
“First, the magical beasts were annihilated by Grand Duke Reinhardt and his valiant knights here. Remember that if it weren’t for them that night, you wouldn’t even be sitting here alive right now. At the very least, before demanding accountability, isn’t it proper to first show respect to the knighthood that shed blood in sacrifice on that day?”
Ludwig scanned the nobles with a menacing gaze.
“Second, the dimensional barrier is being stabilized through the efforts of the mages. Now is not the time to tremble in fear and terror, but to faithfully commit to your respective roles. Do not forget that we bear a duty as those who sustain Ruberia.”
The Crown Prince’s speech continued majestically and without hesitation. His expression was filled with unwavering certainty, and his gestures exuded the dignity of royalty.
Beneath the lights of the chamber, his red hair shone like a crown. The nobles looked up at their young future leader with deeply moved expressions.
“Third, the stolen <Book of Ignis> is.”
The Crown Prince paused for a moment and smiled meaningfully.
“A fake.”
Simultaneously with the Crown Prince’s declaration that the magic book was a fake, the chamber was dyed in astonishment.
The nobles gasped in utter shock. Some nobles were so flabbergasted they couldn’t even close their gaping mouths.
“To prepare against any contingency, the <Book of Ignis> was swapped in advance. It is currently stored safely in another location, so you need not worry.”
Leaning against the podium, Ludwig flashed a lazy yet dangerous smile. It was a gaze that looked down upon the pieces of a game board he had constructed himself.
I had already anticipated this reaction from the people.
After all, I too had been startled when I found out the magic book was a fake inside the carriage.
And I had trembled with a fierce sense of betrayal.
‘How could they deceive me, a Book Reader? No matter if the decision was made for security reasons, I am still one of the personnel involved.’
Anger welled up within me anew, prompting me to glare at William. Noticing my gaze, he clasped his hands together and gestured an apology.
‘Looking back, William’s acting skills were worthy of a Best Actor award. When he came to the Duke’s mansion with a face pale as a ghost, claiming the magic book had been stolen, I truly believed it!’
Not only that, but it turned out to be his plan to bring me, a Book Reader, to the scene to verify it, all to perfectly deceive the enemy.
‘As expected, the enemy is always closest to you.’
There’s a reason why movies and dramas always set up the kindest, most trustworthy character as the culprit. It maximizes the shock.
“I am truly sorry. It couldn’t be helped.”
William repeatedly conveyed his apologies through his eyes.
It wasn’t that I didn’t understand the reason why they carried out the magic book swap in absolute secrecy.
I heard that after initially losing <Lion’s Introductory Grimoire>, they agonized over drawing up countermeasures. The very first measure they took was to swap out or relocate some of the Five Great Grimoires.
To be honest, when the Crown Prince mentioned he would reveal that the book was a fake during the State Council meeting, I felt worried first.
William had smiled brightly, saying, “The enemy must have realized by now that the book is a fake. This is a sort of declaration of war. We can also identify the hostile factions attending the State Council.”
So, is the hostile faction present in this room?
I scanned the chaotic and panicked chamber with hawk-like eyes.
The Crown Prince had stated that the enemy was within. He said it became crystal clear through this incident at the annex library.
That it was an audacious crime that could never be pulled off unless it was by someone who knew top-secret information.
He confidently asserted that the culprit was highly likely to be a high-ranking noble and would absolutely attend this State Council meeting.
If it was a person likely to be the ‘enemy,’ I knew him all too well.
My gaze stopped at Franz.
Amidst the agitated nobles, he sat haughtily without a single change in expression. Franz’s gaze and mine clashed in midair.
‘Yes, I’m talking about you. You pretty lunatic.’
Franz’s eyes crinkled narrowly like a well-fed cat.
One of the nobles raised his hand. He carefully rose from his seat, but for a brief moment, he checked Franz’s reaction.
‘Are they part of Duke Schpern’s faction?’
The Crown Prince recognized him and gave a slight nod.
“Count Harden, speak.”
The Count spoke in a cautious but grave tone.
“I am deeply struck by Your Highness’s foresight. However, I harbor concerns regarding whether the <Book of Ignis> is truly in a safe place. The destiny of the continent hinges upon the Five Great Grimoires. I pray you forgive my overcautious anxiety.”
As Count Harden finished speaking, the nobles nodded their heads in agreement.
As a brief commotion stirred, the Crown Prince struck the podium once and spoke confidently.
“As a matter of fact, to set your minds at ease, I have invited a Mage of Protection to this venue.”
As the Crown Prince gestured to William, the latter quietly stood up. He then opened the door to a drawing room hidden at the back of the council chamber.
The door opened, and a mage wearing a black robe with a deeply pulled-down hood appeared silently.
Everyone’s eyes converged on the mage simultaneously.
The visit of the Mage of Protection was also something I had heard about in advance inside the carriage.
They said she was the most appropriate person to instill trust in the nobles who half-believed and half-doubted the safety of the magic book.
The ‘Mages of Protection’ are Grand Master mages who guard the dimensional barrier, and they are praised as the guardians protecting the continent.
Their roots were said to originate from the Queen of the first king, Julius I.
They never involve themselves in politics, but they exist to risk their lives from generation to generation to dedicate themselves solely to guarding the dimensional barrier. I had also heard that even the King could not treat them lightly.
Anew, Ludwig’s resourcefulness was astonishing. To think he could move a member of such a group.
“Mage of Protection, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for accepting the invitation. Welcome to Ruberia.”
As Ludwig greeted her with a polite demeanor, the Mage of Protection silently bowed her head.
The chamber bustled as the Mage of Protection, who strictly maintains neutrality, appeared at the State Council.
“To think a Mage of Protection, who absolutely never enters the palace, has come here. It’s unbelievable.”
“It seems His Highness has made even them his allies. Truly remarkable.”
“To meet a Mage of Protection in person, it is an honor for the family.”
The nobles exchanged opinions with one another, unable to conceal their astonishment.
Franz also appeared to have been caught off guard, as if hit where it hurt.
The Mage of Protection removed the robe that was concealing her entire body. Surprised voices erupted among the nobles.
She was a woman in her thirties with short silver hair and obsidian-black eyes.
Due to her distinct features and tanned skin, she exuded an exotic aura. Her tall stature and robust build made her look as resilient as a female warrior.
“I am the Mage of Protection, Palia.”
Palia spoke downward to the nobles with a cold, dignified expression. The nobles could say nothing against the aura of intimidation she radiated.
“The <Book of Ignis> is in our custody. Therefore, Ruberians may rest easy.”
Palia’s voice carried deep authority and calmness. Her words were brief, but their weight was far from light.
At that single statement, the nobles conceded, their expressions turning to ones of relief.
I could feel that the influence of the Mage of Protection was immense. Because they had protected this land since the founding of the kingdom, they received the steadfast trust and support of the Luberian people.
After giving a brief nod to the Crown Prince, Palia sat in the seat next to Chairman Reichen.
Just by the Mage of Protection appearing at the royal palace to testify, Ludwig’s position became unshakeable.
Because the looks the other nobles cast toward the Crown Prince—excluding Duke Schpern’s faction—had visibly changed.
Palia, who was about to put her hood back on, paused. Her gaze stopped at me.
Her black eyes widened.
However, the corners of her mouth soon curled upward, and a blue light flared and vanished within her pupils behind the silver hair.
I tried to observe closely, but Palia pulled her hood down deeply again. Her expression was once more shrouded in darkness.
‘Why is she looking at me like that? It feels subtly unpleasant.’
“Then, shall we talk about the main point? I shall propose an important agenda.”
Ludwig, who had ascended the podium again, spoke as he scanned the audience. At the Crown Prince’s solemn attitude, the nobles straightened their postures and listened intently.
‘Right, well. It must be my imagination.’
I also withdrew my interest from Palia and focused on the meeting.
Now it was time for the real objective to come out.
“This jousting arena raid incident was akin to a threat against the whole of Ruberia. That is why I have stepped forward to seek your opinions and prepare together.”
Ludwig squared his broad shoulders. His splendid and authoritative attire made him stand out like a young king.
His blazing red hair shone like the brilliance of a crown, and his lapis lazuli eyes burned with a charisma that brought everyone to their knees.
“Thus, I intend to found a new knighthood capable of preparing against magical beasts. For the lives and safety of the people of Ruberia!”
The majestic voice of the Crown Prince echoed throughout the chamber.
The nobles showed similar reactions, though slightly varied. The pro-royal faction clapped and welcomed it, and even the neutral faction nodded, acknowledging the necessity.
Only Duke Schpern’s faction looked flustered, as if they had been struck on the back of the head. Franz watched the chamber without a single change in expression.
‘Finally, the original objective has surfaced.’
Only then did I feel the tension ease slightly. I leaned back comfortably against my chair, relaxing my rigid spine.
The true objective of this State Council meeting was the ‘founding of the Magical Beast Knighthood.’ Of course, strictly speaking, it was a new knighthood for the Crown Prince.
According to what I heard from the Crown Prince, the situation was as follows.
Originally in Ruberia, a knighthood specializing in subjugating magical beasts had been stationed at the borders.
The Commander-in-Chief, who could be called its representative figure, was none other than Calix.
He achieved brilliant feats in annihilating the magical beasts that appeared at the borders. However, as the magical beast raids dwindled, the knighthood naturally disbanded.
Some rumored that the King at the time, wary of the growing power of Duke Reinhardt and his family, forcefully disbanded it.
Though unproven, it was a rumor that made sense. And understandably so, because even after all this time, the popularity and respect for Calix were on the verge of piercing the sky. People who adored Calix, regardless of commoner or noble status, were overflowing.
At any rate, the Crown Prince planned to use this magical beast appearance as an opportunity to found a new knighthood and strengthen his own faction.
Of course, since the primary goal was to protect the people more effectively from magical beasts, he wasn’t just thinking of his own interests either.
Turning a crisis into an opportunity. I thought he was just a rogue Crown Prince who only liked playing around in high society, but honestly, I saw him in a new light.
It seemed I wasn’t the only one thinking this way.
The nobles looking at the Crown Prince either marveled or wore gratified expressions, like a parent seeing a reformed son. In particular, Chairman Reichen secretly removed his glasses and wiped the corners of his eyes.
“I support His Highness the Crown Prince’s proposal.”
Chairman Reichen was the first to stand and shout. Following him, the nobles vied to declare their support.
“I support it!”
“I too shall support it!”
The passage of the Crown Prince’s agenda happened in an instant.
The nobles, who had previously watched from the sidelines claiming magical beasts only appeared at the borders, were gripped with terror when the monsters showed up in the capital.
They seemed to conclude that their own safety and that of the capital were more important than worrying about the expansion of the Crown Prince’s power.
When the vast majority of the attending nobles expressed approval, Duke Schpern’s faction turned pale with awkwardness, merely checking Franz’s reaction.
Finally, Franz slowly rose from his seat.
In an instant, a taut tension flowed through the chamber.
Breaking the tension all at once, Franz flashed a bright smile. He bowed gracefully toward the Crown Prince.
“The Schpern House also supports His Highness the Crown Prince. Furthermore, we shall do our utmost to provide support. Because it is for the sake of Ruberia.”
‘As expected, that man is a fox with a hundred tails.’
As if responding in kind, the Crown Prince wore a victor’s smile toward Franz.
“I have clearly verified your deep loyalty toward Ruberia and your sincere concern for the people. I look forward to your active support for the founding of the new knighthood. Well, it would be even better if you sent your knights.”
At the Crown Prince’s borderline blackmailing(?) remark openly demanding manpower and money, the nobles’ expressions turned rapidly dark.
Since the agenda had already passed, they were now in a position where they had to provide material support for the founding of the knighthood, swallow it or lump it.
Chairman Reichen ascended the podium to calm the bustling nobles.
“Specific plans regarding the founding of the knighthood shall be discussed through future meetings. We shall conclude the State Council meeting with this for today.”
Bang, bang, bang!
The sound of the gavel striking echoed throughout the chamber.
After the meeting ended, the nobles formed groups to converse with the Crown Prince or Chairman Reichen. Duke Reinhardt was also surrounded by young nobles who followed him.
Franz, leading the nobles of his own faction, left the chamber first.
Feeling awkward being alone in the chaotic chamber, I also stood up from my seat.
As I walked out to wait in the hallway, someone blocked my path. It was Palia, the Mage of Protection. She must have approached with a purpose, but she merely glared at me with a frosty expression.
Only an awkward and cold silence flowed between her and me.
It was a difficult situation, but I felt I should greet her first, so I spoke up.
“It is a pleasure to meet you, Mage of Protection. I am Erika Diel, the Chief Librarian of the Royal Library. Is there something I can help you with?”
Palia said nothing. Her black eyes stared intently at me. A gaze that felt as though it were piercing through my very soul.
That was… intense bloodlust.
I recognized that gaze.
That was the gaze of a warrior facing a magical beast.
My heart beat faster and faster, and a chill ran down my spine with terror.
I had to run away. Right now.
That mage wants to kill me. Sincerely.
‘Why? I only just met her today.’
Palia’s obsidian-like eyes flared. Glaring at me, she murmured softly.
At that moment, my chest felt completely blocked, as if caught in a nightmare. There wasn’t even time to call for help.
“Gasp……!”
To think she would respond to a simple greeting with an attack. Do mages not learn basic etiquette?
While suffocating, a sudden hot anger surged within me.
The anger instantly pulled up the power hidden deep beneath my skin, as if igniting it.
As strength entered my grip, the magic power that was choking my heart vanished like foam.
Taking a forceful step forward, I glared back at Palia.
“What is the meaning of this sudden action? Is responding to a greeting with an attack the etiquette of the Mages of Protection?”
‘If you weren’t an important VIP, I would have grabbed you by the collar. Sigh, let’s just consider it paying off bad luck. Though I didn’t want it, I did get a promotion.’
Palia’s eyes trembled minutely.
“Why?”
She murmured as if unable to believe it, but soon regained her composure.
“Ah……. Is that so.”
Palia blinked slowly toward me, but her expression did not change in the slightest.
“My apologies. I mistook you because your aura felt different.”
“Isn’t an apology supposed to come first? I heard you only stayed in the Kral Mountains, but it seems you’ve forgotten general etiquette.”
While openly being sarcastic, I felt a tiny bit scared.
They said the magic of a Mage of Protection was enough to shake a nation.
Not only Director William but even the Crown Prince treated her politely as a VIP, so I wondered if a low-ranking librarian like me could get away with talking back so boldly.
But what could I do? My hot temper is completely incompatible with someone like Palia—someone who is stronger than me but wields that power as they please.
Palia stared at me quietly with a meaningful gaze. An unfamiliar language flowed slowly from her dark lips.
“It wasn’t just the magic book that was a fake.”
It was ancient magic language. The same as the magic language on the library door.
This time, Palia didn’t use magic power. Even so, her single remark made me feel as though the air inside my lungs had been struck.
“What did you… just say?”
I almost demanded to know if the fake she was referring to was me. I opened my eyes wide, acting as if I hadn’t heard properly.
The corners of Palia’s mouth curled up for the first time.
It was a smile mixed with joy and excitement, as if she had finally discovered a prey she had been pursuing for a long time.
“Erika Diel, the Goddess of War.”
To hear that title from the mouth of the Mage of Protection. I couldn’t bring myself to raise my head out of sheer embarrassment.
Very, truly, sincerely, honestly, I wanted to grab the Crown Prince by the collar. To think he created such a dark-history-worthy name.
Is this what the flow of the original work is like? It makes me want to commit treason somehow either way.
“I shall watch you.”
Palia left behind only a single cold remark and turned around to walk away. I stood blankly, completely flabbergasted.
‘Was Erika such an important character?’
The popularity is so explosive it brings tears to my eyes.
As if the crazy young lord wasn’t enough, now a psychopath mage who suffocates people upon first meeting boldly declares she will stalk me.
“Librarian Erika, is something the matter?”
William approached me with fast strides after concluding his conversation with Chairman Reichen.
His complexion was heavy, as if he had noticed the unusual atmosphere between Palia and me.
After examining me carefully, he chased the retreating figure of Palia entering the drawing room with his eyes.
“Did something happen with Lady Palia? Your complexion doesn’t look good.”
“We merely exchanged greetings.”
It was an unforgettable, impressive greeting, indeed.
Whether he believed my awkward lie or not, William nodded his head.
He briefly checked on the Crown Prince and Calix, who were surrounded by nobles.
“It seems the conversation will drag on for His Highness the Crown Prince and Grand Duke Reinhardt. I must go now as I have a meeting with Lady Palia regarding the magic book.”
“You must be busy. Don’t mind me and go ahead quickly.”
I smiled nonchalantly as if nothing were wrong, but William looked unconvinced.
“Are you truly alright? Wait in the waiting room and return home together with Grand Duke Reinhardt.”
“Um, instead of the Duke’s mansion, could I go to the library residence?”
When I asked carefully, William’s monocle flashed sharply.
“Was the Duke’s hospitality uncomfortable? As your guardian, I will not sit idly by.”
William looked ready to launch a nagging attack against Calix under the guise of a protest at any moment.
I hurriedly stopped him before things escalated.
“No, not at all. I am being treated more than generously. Please don’t worry.”
Spending time with Michael, who felt like a lovely younger brother, was enjoyable, and living the life of a noble lady being pampered at the Duke’s mansion was satisfying. However, it was unavoidable that my body and mind felt uncomfortable.
“I just wonder if I’m causing an inconvenience. I feel a bit apologetic staying there for so long.”
It felt a bit like renting a room in a rich person’s house. They say even if it’s a single room, your own home is the best.
I wanted to relax at the residence without having to walk on eggshells around others.
William quietly placed his hand on my shoulder. It was a warm yet reassuring touch.
“I fully understand how you feel.”
“Director……”
“In the current confusing situation, the Duke’s mansion is the safest place. For the time being, you must commute to work from the Duke’s mansion. The most important thing is your safety.”
William looked down at me with a gentle and warm face.
‘I don’t think you should deliver such embarrassing lines in a solemn council chamber. Because Chairman Reichen over there is narrowing his eyes and observing us.’
“I’ll do as you say, Director. Then I shall see you at the library tomorrow. Thank you for today.”
I quickly said goodbye to William like an employee leaving precisely on time before the boss could catch them. Wearing a gentle smile, he bowed back in unison.
“I am the one who has only caused trouble for Librarian Erika. I am always grateful. And……”
He looked as though he wanted to say something important.
His kind, dark brown eyes were instantly engulfed in deep pain and guilt.
‘Why do you look at me with those eyes, William?’
His gaze returned to normal as if it had never happened.
“Go safely. I shall look forward to seeing you again at the Royal Library tomorrow.”
I stopped in my tracks just as I was about to turn around. William remained calm and neat, exactly as he always was.
And yet.
“I shall look forward to seeing you again at the Royal Library.”
‘What is this voice echoing inside my head?’
I felt a sense of déjà vu, as if he had said the exact same words a long time ago.
In that posture, with that expression, he had spoken words of promise to me as if chanting a spell, as if certain.
Did William say those words to Erika in the original novel?
‘No, those are words that could absolutely never appear in the original work.’
Erika never became a library librarian. As soon as she fled from the Viscount’s mansion, she met Franz and joined the rebel forces.
Then when did he say such words?
Did he meet Erika before I possessed her body?
It felt as though the things I had naturally believed in were cracking slightly from beneath my feet.
Could it be that my gentle guardian harbors a secret I don’t know about?
His smile was as kind as before, but his gaze was difficult to read precisely.
“Um……. Director.”
“Yes? Do you have something to say?”
I couldn’t muster the courage to ask if he had ever said such a thing in the past.
Because I trusted him entirely.
“No, it’s nothing. You said you were working overtime today, right? Hang in there.”
When I clenched my fist and struck a fighting pose, William let out a faint smile as if finding my gesture amusing.
He bowed politely to Chairman Reichen before heading toward the drawing room.
Unbeknownst to how long she had been watching, Palia stood by the inner doorway of the drawing room. William approached her and greeted her respectfully.
Beyond the closing door, the flame inside Palia’s black eyes blazed before vanishing.
