Chapter 18

“Isn’t this a bit much? A deep clean first thing in the morning, Chief Librarian?”

 

The sharp voice pierced straight through the air. Sensing a distinct threat to my well-being, I was almost too scared to look back.

 

I managed to straighten my back, which had grown stiff from vigorously mopping the floor. Wiping the sweat from my brow, I turned around with an awkward smile.

 

Rose was glaring at me with a murderous look in her eyes, holding a feather duster like a weapon.

 

The morning after that chaotic after-work drinking party, I had called an emergency meeting with Madam Marian. We needed to find a classroom to run the book club as soon as possible.

 

Fortunately, there was an unused research room in the library annex. It had been used by monks back when the building was a monastery, and it was spacious enough to accommodate forty people.

 

The only catch was that it hadn’t been used in ages, so the floor was thick with dust and the ceiling and walls were covered in cobwebs.

 

And so, after enlisting the help of the library staff, we were all currently deep cleaning the place first thing in the morning.

 

I rolled up my sleeves, swept the floors, and dusted the surfaces. I had just finished wiping down the windows and was in the middle of mopping the floor to a brilliant shine.

 

Rose, who was a founding member of the book club, was participating in the cleanup semi-forcibly. Knowing her personality, the fact that she was cleaning herself instead of ordering a maid to do it was already a miracle.

 

In times like this, a swift apology is the best policy.

 

I quickly brought my hands together and practically begged her.

 

“I’m so sorry, Lady Rose. It’s just that we’re running desperately short on time to prepare for the book club’s opening. Please help me, I beg of you.”

 

Crossing her arms, Rose gave a haughty, petulant nod.

 

“If that’s the case, you absolutely must keep that promise.”

 

“Huh? What promise?”

 

Had I ever made a promise to her?

 

As I tilted my head, unable to recall anything, Rose glanced around at the surrounding staff and whispered into my ear.

 

“Erika, Her Majesty the Queen is the sponsor of the book club, right?”

 

“Yes, that’s right. Why?”

 

“When Her Majesty hosts a royal palace tea party, use your influence so I can attend too. You can do that for me, right?”

 

The fierce determination gleaming in Rose’s eyes made it clear that rejection was not an option, which sent a small shiver of fear through me. I nodded vigorously.

 

“Yes. I will do my absolute best.”

 

Her frosty expression instantly melted into a bright smile. Suddenly bursting with motivation, Rose began to brandish her feather duster with immense vigor.

 

“If it is for the sake of the Royal Library, I shall gladly sacrifice this body of mine. Hoho!”

 

Rose enthusiastically threw herself into leading the staff, directing the cleanup.

 

“Alright, sweep and wipe faster, everyone! Let’s push through just a little more!”

 

‘Well, her motives might be a bit impure, but either way, I’m grateful for her cooperation.’

 

Madam Marian, who had been reviewing a stack of documents in a corner of the research room, called out to me.

 

“Librarian Erika, may we have a quick word?”

 

“Yes, Madam. What is it?”

 

“We have spare tables and chairs that can go into the classroom. We can custom-order a chalkboard. Oh, and we should also lay down a new carpet for the floor, even if it incurs some expenses.”

 

Madam Marian adjusted the glasses resting on the tip of her nose, meticulously checking off the items needed for the classroom.

 

‘As expected of the mistress of the Royal Library. She catches all the fine details that I missed. It feels as reassuring as gaining a massive army of allies.’

 

“Please don’t worry about the expenses. Her Majesty the Queen has promised her full support. Of course, we shouldn’t waste resources carelessly, but you may spend generously on whatever is necessary.”

 

Madam Marian paused, setting her pen down, and gazed at me intently. Her eyes held a gentle yet powerful gaze that carried the weight of her years of experience.

 

“Her Majesty is a prudent person who normally avoids public activities or political involvement. May I ask how you managed to move her heart?”

 

I had previously heard about Madam Marian’s past from Rose.

 

In her youth, she had served as a lady-in-waiting, closely assisting the Queen for a long time.

 

Alongside Countess Demeter—Calix’s aunt—she had been one of the Queen’s most favored direct ladies-in-waiting.

 

After her husband passed away in a sudden accident, she stepped down from her position and retired to the countryside. Later, at William’s request, she took over the general management of the Royal Library.

 

“That is… thanks to the words you spoke to me, Madam Marian.”

 

A natural smile formed on my face as I recalled the warm words she had given me back then.

 

“What did I say to you then?”

 

The Madam looked puzzled, not remembering right away.

 

“You told me that I wasn’t kicked out of the Viscount’s estate, but rather that I had gained an opportunity to enjoy a new life.”

 

“Ah, I remember. I did say that.”

 

A small exclamation escaped her lips as the memory finally returned.

 

“I wanted to give young ladies who haven’t had the opportunity for education a chance to enjoy a new life as well. The words you gave me back then became my strength, and I simply conveyed that sincere truth to Her Majesty.”

 

I spoke calmly but with heartfelt sincerity. Madam Marian offered a soft smile, finally understanding.

 

“However, Librarian Erika.”

 

Her expression turned serious as she lobbed a sharp question my way.

 

“Even young ladies from families in difficult circumstances still receive a basic education in culture and knowledge. They learn social etiquette and the proper qualities needed to manage a household as its mistress. If that is the case, what exactly will this book club teach them?”

 

“We won’t teach them anything.”

 

I replied to her question with composure.

 

“What do you mean by that?”

 

A flicker of bewilderment crossed the Madam’s eyes. Maintaining my smile, I continued calmly.

 

“Learning on one’s own, finding one’s own path, and establishing one’s own values—that is the true purpose the book club pursues. I want to help them shape their own lives, free from the constraints of their families or social status.”

 

Madam Marian listened in silence until I finished speaking, letting out a deep sigh.

 

‘Does she not like it? Did I make a slip of the tongue?’

 

As I waited anxiously for her response, she suddenly grabbed both of my hands firmly.

 

“…How wonderful. Cultivating the strength to learn and find one’s path on one’s own—that is the very spirit of a library. Thank you for awakening something I had forgotten for so long.”

 

Madam Marian spoke in a deeply moved tone, tears even welling up slightly in her eyes.

 

“I will throw my full support behind this endeavor as well!”

 

“Ah… thank you so much, Madam.”

 

With my hands tightly gripped, I thanked her, feeling a bit dazed by her sudden burst of emotion.

 

Madam Marian hurriedly gathered her stack of documents and stood up in a flurry.

 

“This is no time to sit around! I must draw up the budget proposal and recruit faculty immediately! We also need to decide which fields to explore. Do you have a curriculum in mind?”

 

“Pardon? I will submit a report tomorrow.”

 

“I shall head out first because of the budget proposal. I leave the final cleanup to you.”

 

“Thank you, Madam. But please don’t overexert yourself. I’m worried you might harm your health.”

 

Lately, Madam Marian had been habitually complaining about her back hurting. I was worried she might fall ill from pushing herself too hard for the book club.

 

She reassured me with a cheerful voice.

 

“Despite how I look, I am still young at heart. Thanks to you, Librarian Erika, I’ll be working with excitement for the first time in a while.”

 

 

***

 

 

After wrapping up the deep clean of the classroom, Rose and I settled our simple lunch with sandwiches at the information desk.

 

Holding a sandwich in one hand, I was racking my brain over drafting the curriculum report with the other. Rose, who had been staring intently at me, asked a question.

 

“Erika, have you done this kind of work before? I heard that before you came to the library, you only stayed inside the Viscount’s estate, but your handling of work is incredibly proficient.”

 

It was likely a casual question thrown out without much thought, but it felt oddly sharp, making me flinch inwardly.

 

“When I was at the Viscount’s estate, I formed a reading group with some acquaintances. I think that experience is helping me now.”

 

“Ah, I see.”

 

In reality, it was thanks to my experience working as a library assistant in my past life.

 

Memories flashed through my mind of the days I spent giving up my weekends and turning down blind dates just to organize reading events, poetry concerts, and book talks to build community and revitalize reading culture for local residents.

 

‘Whether in my past life or inside a novel, I guess my destiny is to just work like an ox. As expected, I should have known the moment I was promoted to Chief Librarian. I’m learning the truth all over again that there’s no such thing as a free lunch… though half of this is trouble I brought upon myself.’

 

I stuffed the remaining piece of sandwich into my mouth all at once and refocused on the curriculum report.

 

“Then shall I write the invitation letters to be sent to the crown princess candidates?”

 

Rose fluttered the list of crown princess candidates I had handed her like a fan.

 

I explained the separate orders I had received from Ludwig to Rose and distributed the tasks to her.

 

As the eldest daughter of the Madison family, possessed of excellent information analysis skills and sharp judgment of character, Rose would be able to assess the crown princess candidates objectively.

 

Furthermore, it was highly beneficial because we could obtain detailed information about the candidates’ families based on the information network the Madison family had accumulated.

 

Resting her chin on her hand, Rose spoke with a contemplative look on her face.

 

“Come to think of it, what about Lady Eliade?”

 

As if it were truly regrettable, Rose placed a hand against her cheek and sighed.

 

“Will that immensely proud young lady smoothly agree to come to the book club? We can’t exactly openly invite her by saying, ‘Please come since this is a place to test your qualifications as the crown princess,’ right?”

 

It made sense for her to worry.

 

Someone of Eliade’s stature would already be receiving education from excellent private tutors, so she had no reason to attend a book club. On top of that, she and I weren’t exactly on great terms.

 

“We just have to emphasize that the book club was created with the sponsorship of Her Majesty the Queen. Wouldn’t she gladly come if we just reveal that much?”

 

“That sounds great. I’ll write a masterpiece of a letter that will make Eliade run over barefoot, fufu.”

 

Rose smiled confidently, brimming with ambition. Finding her reliable, I cheered her on.

 

“Oh, brilliant. I’m counting on you, Rose. By the way, what about what I asked for?”

 

“Ah, I found it. Hold on a moment.”

 

Rose rummaged through the stacks of files on the information desk for a good while before pulling one out.

 

“Here is the book loan registry. Why do you need this?”

 

I flipped through the registry, checking if there were young ladies who had borrowed books.

 

“It’s the most important reference material for deciding the participants of the book club.”

 

“What criteria are you using to select them?”

 

“In order of who borrowed the most books.”

 

“Oho, that’s a smart idea. If it’s a young lady with a deep interest in books, she’ll participate in the book club sincerely.”

 

As expected of the quick-witted Rose. She grasped my plan in one go.

 

“Correct. And borrowing a lot of books implies that they don’t have the financial luxury to possess books at their own residence, right?”

 

“Are there any promising young ladies? Tell me, I might know them.”

 

A certain young lady who had borrowed the highest number of books recently caught my eye.

 

Knowing the types of books a person reads gives insight into their thoughts and values.

 

Looking at her book loan history, she possessed a deep knowledge of politics and society, and there were many books related to continental history. Most of them were expert-level books that required a high level of scholarship to comprehend.

 

“Reina Douglas. How about this young lady?”

 

Upon confirming the name, Rose thought about it deeply before snapping her fingers.

 

“Ah, I remember. She’s the only daughter of a fallen viscount family. She must be living with her mother in a small estate in the capital. I heard their family fortune rapidly declined after Viscount Douglas passed away from an illness.”

 

Immensely impressed by Rose’s information network and astounding memory, I stared at her blankly for a moment.

 

“How do you remember all of that?”

 

“I always keep tabs on information regarding the nobility of Ruberia. I need to know who is doing well or who went bankrupt so we can trade the goods or money they need.”

 

‘As expected of the eldest daughter of the kingdom’s top merchant guild.’

 

Then, a sudden thought crossed my mind, sending a chill down my spine.

 

“By any chance… did you also know about the situation of House Diel?”

 

“Yes. I knew even before you came here.”

 

Rose spoke nonchalantly, as if it were nothing.

 

“The Director asked me to look up information on you. If I recall correctly, he said it was to recommend you as a librarian?”

 

The moment I heard those words, my mind went completely blank.

 

When I first met William, he treated me as if he hadn’t seen me in a long time.

 

He hadn’t even brought up the offer to become a librarian. Rather, I was the one who spoke first about wanting to be a librarian.

 

A seed of suspicion began to sprout in my empty mind.

 

‘Director William. Why, despite knowing everything… Even though you knew Erika’s circumstances, why did you pretend not to?’

 

As my expression shifted, Rose observed me with a worried gaze.

 

“Erika, what’s wrong? Your complexion doesn’t look good. You really did overexert yourself. You should leave work early today.”

 

“Ah, no. It’s just that my hangover still hasn’t cleared up. At times like this, a bowl of Dwaeji-gukbap* would be perfect to cure it.”

 

[*T/N: A Korean pork and rice soup that’s a specialty of Busan]

 

It was fascinating how I could naturally crack a joke even now. Rose tilted her head, failing to understand my words.

 

“What? Dwaeji-gukbap? What kind of dish is that?”

 

“Uh, that… it’s a special stew of my family. Anyway, Freesia is supposed to come by this afternoon, so I have to stay at the library.”

 

“Ah right, you mentioned you were going to ask Lady Freesia to help with the book club.”

 

“Yes. I want to ask her to lead the literature discussion group. Since she has a deep appreciation for literature.”

 

Rose nodded her chin in agreement.

 

“Lady Freesia would certainly run it well. But isn’t she also a crown princess candidate?”

 

With the topic shifting to Freesia, Rose stopped talking about my condition.

 

I didn’t want to show her any signs of agitation, so it was a relief.

 

“Yes. But… Freesia won’t want it.”

 

Rose tapped her chin with her fingertip, lost in thought for a moment.

 

“Why do you think so, Erika?”

 

“She is far too kind and gentle to survive the ruthless power struggles of the royal palace.”

 

Whether it was a trick of my imagination or not, a sharp light seemed to flash and vanish within Rose’s brown eyes.

 

“Everyone has a duality to them. I don’t believe that there are people who are always entirely good and righteous. There are simply people who make good choices depending on the situation.”

 

Rose spoke cynically. The lively young lady who enjoyed high society and led the capital’s latest fashion trends was nowhere to be seen.

 

I felt a bit dazed.

 

‘A person’s duality? Does the gentle and dependable William have one too?’

 

Rose returned to her usual bright expression and offered a sweet smile.

 

“I’ll make sure to thoroughly investigate the information on the crown princess candidates. For your sake as well.”

 

“Huh? Why is it for my sake?”

 

“It’s just a figure of speech. A splendid crown princess needs to be selected so our family can expand our business too.”

 

“Rose, seriously, you are a talent too wasted to just stay in a library. I feel like you could lead a grand merchant guild that rules the continent.”

 

Rose rolled her eyes playfully.

 

“Save the flattery… for later when you can give me more of it. Hurry up and go rest in your office, Chief Librarian.”

 

 

***

 

 

Nudged along by Rose’s persistent urging, I returned to my office. Sitting down at my desk, I slowly began to sort through my chaotic thoughts.

 

‘Should I just ask William bluntly? No, I’m terrified of what his answer might be.’

 

A piercing, sharp pain throbbed against my head. I leaned back against the chair and closed my eyes.

 

In an instant, I felt my body sinking deep into a profound darkness. Past my closed eyelids, a pitch-black void unfolded.

 

And there, shining vividly within the darkness, was a pair of yellow eyes.

 

That bastard—the monster.

 

[……You already know.]

 

I had completely forgotten about it for a while because I was so busy. I had forgotten that whenever I submerged myself into my own solitary darkness, I would cross paths with him.

 

‘Shut up. Don’t talk to me.’

 

[……You have suspected him for a long time. Suspected that he might know you came from another world. You felt it every single time you looked into his eyes, which were always brimming with guilt.]

 

‘Shut your mouth.’

 

[Why didn’t you ask him? Why do you look at me with those kinds of eyes? What kind of sin have you committed against me?]

 

“Get lost.”

 

I muttered at the monster, grinding the words out through my bubbling anger.

 

At that exact moment, an explosive burst of power erupted from deep within me, and my body floated up into the air.

 

From the crown of my head down to my heart, and from my heart all the way to the tips of my toes, an unmanageable, colossal power surged and whipped through every single corner of my being, twisting me inside out.

 

As if swept away by a gargantuan tidal wave, the monster’s yellow eyes vanished without a trace.

 

Brilliant lights, akin to pure white lightning slicing through a night sky, flashed across my closed retinas. Dizzied by the sheer impact, I gasped for air and forced my eyes open.

 

“……Gasp.”

 

Cold sweat poured down my spine, and every single vein inside my hands throbbed as though I were physically clutching a beating heart. I steadied my breath, trying desperately to calm my frantic mind.

 

‘Let’s calm down. I’m just reacting too sensitively. It’s my own misunderstanding. There is no way Director William would do that.’

 

The gentle gaze he held whenever he clasped my hands, his warm smile.

 

There was simply no way that the man who had sincerely told me he would become my guardian—the man who wished for the library to be my protective fence—could ever do such a thing.

 

Chewing over these thoughts, I shook my head vigorously to firmly grasp my wavering faith once more.

 

‘He probably investigated it simply because he was worried about Erika. Let’s not over-interpret things. I can just ask him about it later.’

 

Once I resolutely steadied my heart, it felt as though my cluttered mind was finally being restored to order.

 

Freesia was scheduled to visit this afternoon. Before she arrived, I needed to tidy up the office and prepare the tea to serve her.

 

Just as I hurriedly rose from my seat, a calm knock echoed through the room.

 

“Librarian Erika, are you inside?”

 

An incredibly familiar, soft, and composed voice. It was Director William.

 

A wave of anxiety washed over me, but I couldn’t let it show on the outside. Pretending to be perfectly nonchalant, I opened the door to find William standing there with a gentle, crinkling smile.

 

“Ah, fortunately you were here. Someone has come to see you, Librarian Erika. Come to think of it, you two must already be acquainted.”

 

Behind his back, I could see a figure wearing a gray hood pulled down low. William stepped aside slightly to introduce the person.

 

“This is Lady Palia, the Mage of Protection. She came because she wished to personally witness your abilities as a Book Reader, Librarian Erika.”

 

Palia pulled back her hood and stared at me with an expressionless face. Her gaze was quiet, devoid of any discernible emotion.

 

I couldn’t afford to let my guard down.

 

‘Is she hiding her true colors because she’s in front of William?’

 

Suppressing the suspicious glances that kept trying to drift toward William, I bowed my head in greeting.

 

“We met in the State Council Chamber, Lady Palia. Please, come on in.”

 

While they seated themselves on the sofa, I prepared the tea.

 

As I placed the water kettle onto a small brazier and readied the tea leaves and cups, I had to actively suppress the slight trembling in my fingertips throughout the entire process.

 

When I first faced Palia in the State Council Chamber, she had openly directed an intense bloodlust toward me. It was as if she had noticed something incredibly important about me.

 

Palia seemed to know that I came from another world.

 

The Mage of Protection who protects the dimensional barrier. Exactly how much did she know?

 

William appeared to share a close acquaintance with Palia. Given that he came from a monastery and was a mage himself, it made perfect sense that he would be well-acquainted with Palia.

 

Could Palia have told William about my true identity? He might be suspicious of me.

 

Palia, who was hostile and deeply suspicious of me, and William, who treated me kindly while pretending not to know about Erika’s true circumstances.

 

The fact that the two people I suspected most had visited at the exact same time left my mind utterly chaotic and anxious.

 

Clink.

 

Because my hands were shaking, I ended up dropping the tea spoon I was using to transfer the tea leaves onto the floor.

 

William stepped forward and picked up the tea spoon for me.

 

“Erika, are you alright? You don’t look well at all……”

 

William was observing me with eyes full of deep worry.

 

“You’ve been pushing yourself far too hard lately because of the book club. Go sit on the sofa and rest. I will prepare the tea.”

 

“No. I am fine, Director. I will prepare it.”

 

BAM BAM!

 

Suddenly, a frantic banging on the door cut our conversation short.

 

“Director, are you in here?!”

 

The door burst open, and a young man wearing a uniform embossed with the Ruberia Royal Crest rushed inside.

 

He took ragged breaths as he scanned the room. Lacking even the composure to show proper etiquette given the urgency, he immediately approached William.

 

“Director, you must head to the royal palace immediately. It is an emergency.”

 

William bolted up from his seat.

 

“Assistant James, what brings you here in such a rush?”

 

“His Majesty the King’s illness has suddenly taken a turn for the worse. You must enter the palace at once.”

 

William’s complexion darkened drastically.

 

“When I visited him three days ago, there was an improvement…… Very well. I will prepare myself and depart immediately.”

 

“I have a carriage on standby. Please get ready and come down as quickly as possible.”

 

Having finished delivering his message, the assistant hurriedly exited the room.

 

Because it had all happened so suddenly, I merely stood there awkwardly, watching it unfold.

 

With a grave expression, William directed his gaze toward Palia.

 

“I must enter the palace immediately. What will you do, Lady Palia? If you wish to return to the monastery, I can arrange a carriage for you.”

 

Palia’s gaze slowly shifted toward me. It was the first time since I met her that her eyes held a favorable look. Of course, it was undoubtedly an act concocted solely because she was in front of William.

 

The corners of her expressionless lips curved into a faint, subtle arc.

 

“I wish to speak a bit more with the Book Reader. After all, she is one of the few precious existences within Ruberia.”

 

William nodded at her decision and entrusted the remaining matters to me.

 

He didn’t hesitate for a single moment, possessing absolute trust in the Mage of Protection.

 

“Then, I am sorry to trouble you, but please ensure Lady Palia does not face any discomfort. I will inform Madam Marian before I depart.”

 

“Ah, Director. I……”

 

“Do you have something to say to me?”

 

I faltered for a moment, but then shook my head and forced a calm smile.

 

“It’s nothing. Please travel safely.”

 

“Yes. Once I return from the royal palace, I look forward to hearing about the progress of the book club. I am anticipating it greatly myself.”

 

Facing those warm brown eyes that trusted me completely, a sense of guilt for having doubted him combined with the lingering anxiety to muddle my heart even further.

 

 

***

 

 

After William departed, nothing but a heavy silence and stillness remained in the office.

 

Palia stared daggers at me without making a single movement. I sat there stiffly, maintaining a smile that caused the muscles around my mouth to twitch.

 

My senses were heightened, resembling an animal that had detected a trap. Instinctively, my entire focus gravitated toward the door.

 

‘I have a bad feeling about this. If things go south, I’m bolting. But wait, can I even run fast?’

 

As I anxiously rolled my eyes, I noticed that Palia’s teacup was empty. I quickly grabbed the teapot and stood up.

 

“Oh my! We’ve completely run out of tea leaves. I mustn’t be negligent in hosting such an esteemed guest.”

 

I cried out in a deliberately exaggerated fuss.

 

“I am terribly sorry, but could you please wait for just a moment? I will fetch some more tea right away.”

 

‘Perfect. That was incredibly natural. I’ll just pretend to go grab some tea and escape outside.’

 

My shallow trick, however, met its end before even a few seconds could pass.

 

Palia had stood up right along with me.

 

Towering over me by a good ten centimeters, she looked down at me and let out a smirk. That smirk rubbed me entirely the wrong way, causing a sudden spike of irritation to flare up inside me.

 

“What are you smirking at?”

 

Instead of giving a verbal answer, Palia reached out, grabbed my chin, and stared intently into my face. It felt as though she were piercing through my eyes to gaze straight into my very soul.

 

Looking into those coldly flickering black eyes sent shiver down my spine.

 

“Just as I thought…… Your soul closely resembles Verna’s. Black eyes, black hair. You possess a similar appearance to her.”

 

In that split second, my breath hitched as if my heart had frozen solid.

 

‘She knows my ‘real appearance’……!’

 

Her hand, which had been gripping my chin, slid down to my neck as if caressing it before gently applying pressure. I tried to break free from her grasp, but I couldn’t budge an inch.

 

Her hand encircled my neck. My body stiffened like stone as my strength rapidly drained away.

 

As Palia’s grip grew tighter, my terror began to recede, and a boiling rage rushed in to take its place.

 

Even as I gasped and sputtered, unable to draw breath, I glared back at her and spat out my fury through gritted teeth.

 

“Gasp, cough. Do—Do you honestly think you can get away with doing this here?”

 

With every ounce of strength I could muster, I wrenched my hands around her wrist. A tense tug-of-war erupted between my grip on her wrist and the strength of Palia’s pinned arm.

 

Directing a razor-sharp glare at me, she spoke in a low, rumbling growl.

 

“I have no idea why William volunteered to become your guardian. If he hadn’t been protecting you, I would have disposed of you immediately. Without even knowing what kind of creature you truly are—what a foolish man.”

 

Her lips twisted into a displeased scowl.

 

For me, however, a wave of profound relief washed over me so intensely that my legs nearly buckled beneath me.

 

From Palia’s words, I realized two crucial facts.

 

William knew absolutely nothing about my true identity, and he had become my guardian out of pure, untainted goodwill.

 

The momentary relief quickly gave way to a new question.

 

‘Why didn’t Palia tell William about my identity? No, perhaps she is intentionally hiding it.’

 

My identity—something she was hiding even from William, the library director who manages the magic books.

 

Exactly what purpose are you hiding it for, Palia?

 

Exerting all my strength, I dragged her wrist away from me. The area around my neck where she had gripped me throbbed with a dull ache.

 

‘There are definitely going to be finger marks left behind. Thank goodness the librarian uniform is designed to cover the neck. If visible strangulation marks had been left, it would have been highly problematic.’

 

Palia continued to glare at me with murderous intent, and I met her gaze with calm defiance.

 

We maintained our silence, standing a mere single step apart, staring each other down.

 

It was Palia’s sarcasm that broke the silence first.

 

“Impressive. Not only have you become a librarian of the Royal Library and won the favor of the Crown Prince, but you’ve even secured the sponsorship of the Queen.”

 

A frigid sneer surfaced across her face.

 

“The Goddess of War! Now you are even loved by the citizens of Ruberia. Your bewitching talent for enchanting people is truly astounding, Erika.”

 

‘To hear those kinds of words coming from your mouth. Wow, I really am kind of amazing, aren’t I?’

 

“Don’t make me laugh. If you’re such a grand and magnificent mage, you should know perfectly well that I don’t possess a single drop of mana.”

 

I retorted with a scoff of my own. Having just been choked, I had completely lost any sense of fear.

 

A dense, gleaming bloodlust swirled within Palia’s eyes as she glared at me as if to pierce me through.

 

“It simply hasn’t awakened yet. You should be grateful that your power hasn’t fully awakened. The very moment your strength is revealed to the world, your life will meet its end.”

 

“Why are you trying to kill me? I haven’t done anything to harm you.”

 

“Do you truly still not understand?”

 

Hatred flickered within Palia’s eyes as she spoke through gritted teeth. I couldn’t comprehend why she loathed me to such an extreme degree.

 

“Your very existence is a calamity to this world.”

 

Just as I was about to tell her to cut out the crazy talk, a calm knock echoed through the room. As if by mutual agreement, both she and I froze in place.

 

“Erika, are you inside?”

 

Along with a clear, pristine voice, the door swung open gently. Through the open doorway, platinum-blonde hair fluttered and shimmered like a dancing breeze.

 

“Oh, Freesia! Welcome.”

 

I brightened instantly, welcoming her with open arms.

 

Because I had been busy fearing for my life while hosting a sociopathic mage, I had completely forgotten about my appointment with Freesia.

 

Palia also concealed her menacing bloodlust and took a step back.

 

The office, which had been saturated with sharp tension and bloodlust, regained an awkward tranquility with Freesia’s entrance.

 

‘Thank you, my female lead. You’ve saved me yet again.’

 

“Oh dear, you had a guest. Did I arrive too early?”

 

Freesia wore a troubled expression as her gaze shifted to Palia standing behind me.

 

Her violet eyes grew blank, and her long eyelashes blinked slowly.

 

“Ah…… Who is that lady?”

 

Tears welled up within Freesia’s large eyes, and a mixture of longing and joy flashed across her face. I asked her cautiously.

 

“By any chance, do you know Lady Palia?”

 

Palia, too, had been standing entirely frozen with a dazed, vacant expression from the very moment her eyes met Freesia’s.

 

It was a completely unfamiliar look on her normally cold and cruel face.

 

A radiant smile, resembling a blooming flower, burst across Freesia’s beautiful face. In a single bound, she rushed toward Palia and threw herself into her arms.

 

“Aunt Palia……!”

 

‘What? What did I just hear? Who is an aunt?’

 

I felt dazed, as if I had been struck hard on the back of the head. It seemed I wasn’t the only one in shock, as Palia stood entirely rooted to the spot.

 

It took her a long while before she managed to squeeze out a dry, raspy whisper.

 

“Fr—Freesia?”

 

Freesia raised her head while still nestled in Palia’s embrace, her tear-brimmed eyes sparkling like stars.

 

“Yes. That’s right. It’s me, Freesia. Auntie, I missed you so much.”

 

Though her voice was thick with tears, Freesia offered a lovely smile.

 

With trembling hands, Palia wrapped her arms around Freesia’s shoulders. It was a cautious, delicate gesture, as if she were terrified that this precious person might shatter if touched too roughly.

 

“Ah, Verna’s precious child…… You have grown up so beautifully.”

 

Palia murmured softly, burying her face into Freesia’s hair.

 

‘Freesia is the child of someone named Verna?’

 

‘But didn’t she just say Verna had black hair and black eyes? Freesia has platinum-blonde hair and violet eyes. Ah. They did say she took after her father, Duke Rubel. Just who on earth is Verna?’

 

Freesia and Palia held each other’s hands tightly and seated themselves side by side on the sofa. They looked exactly like a mother and daughter reuniting after being separated since childhood.

 

Glancing back and forth between the two of them, I lit the fire under the teapot and prepared the tea leaves. Until the tea was served, the two of them did nothing but gaze endlessly at one another, sharing the overwhelming emotion of their reunion.

 

Wiping away the tears gathered at the corners of her eyes, Freesia offered a polite apology.

 

“I have been terribly rude. I never imagined I would meet Aunt Palia here, so I showed such an embarrassing display out of sheer joy.”

 

“Not at all. Rather, it is wonderful that I was able to meet someone so dear to me.”

 

‘I have an ominous premonition that my office has somehow transformed into the grand central meeting plaza of Ruberia.’

 

Taking a sip of my tea, I naturally steered a question toward Freesia.

 

“This is quite surprising. I had no idea you were acquainted with the Mage of Protection.”

 

Freesia gazed at Palia for a moment with eyes full of deep affection.

 

“Yes. Aunt Palia was a very close friend of my mother’s. She used to visit the Duke’s estate quite often, and when I was a child, I used to go visit the monastery where Auntie stayed to play. She doted on me terribly.”

 

Freesia gently enveloped Palia’s bronze, weathered hand with her own delicate hands.

 

“Do you remember, Aunt Palia? You used to always carry me on your back and show me so many wondrous spells. The firework magic you showed me on my seventh birthday is still so vivid in my mind.”

 

Palia stared at Freesia, completely captivated by the innocent, childlike smile she wore.

 

“Yes…… I, too, have never forgotten you for even a single moment.”

 

Palia gently stroked Freesia’s peach-toned cheek.

 

I was so startled by that incredibly soft and tender gaze that I nearly dropped my teacup.

 

‘Is this seriously the exact same human who was choking me and threatening my life with lethal intent just moments ago?’

 

While unable to hide her joy, Freesia also let out a slight pout, airing a touch of grievance.

 

“Why didn’t you ever reply to me, even when I sent you letters? You could have given me an answer at least once.”

 

“After Verna departed like that…… many things changed.”

 

Palia murmured softly, averting her eyes from Freesia. Traces of guilt and agony were etched across her expression. A dark shadow cast itself over Freesia’s beautiful face as well.

 

“And so……”

 

Palia poured out the words in a whisper.

 

“I, too, had a very difficult time. I am sorry.”

 

Freesia whispered softly, letting out a heavy, strained breath.

 

“I see. You…… also had a very difficult time, Auntie.”

 

Freesia offered a sorrowful smile, doing her best not to let her pain show.

 

Recalling the sight of her crying out for her mother inside my embrace, my heart ached for her.

 

“Auntie, come back to the Duke’s estate with me. Let’s have a meal together and talk all through the night, please?”

 

Palia wore a conflicted expression.

 

“I wish to do so as well, but I am sorry. I have urgent matters to attend to, so I must head back to the monastery.”

 

Seeing Freesia’s crestfallen expression, Palia stroked her hair apologetically.

 

“Could we at least have a quick meal then? It’s been so long since we last met, it would be far too sorrowful to part ways just like this.”

 

Palia sank into thought for a moment before letting out a soft sigh.

 

“Very well. I shall do as you say.”

 

“Thank you, Auntie!”

 

Freesia rejoiced like a child who had just received a wonderful gift. Turning to me with a beaming face, she asked.

 

“Erika, I am terribly sorry, but could we perhaps push our interview to next time?”

 

“Of course. Anytime is perfectly fine.”

 

An excited Freesia took Palia by the arm and led the way out.

 

Palia looked rather flustered as she was pulled along, but a faint smile never left her lips.

 

I, too, wore a highly polished, professional smile as I saw them off. The moment they vanished from sight, a long, deep sigh escaped my lips automatically.

 

Palia was truly the worst kind of problematic visitor. I seriously felt like scattering salt on the floor behind her.

 

Just as I was about to close the door, a hand inscribed with magical patterns abruptly thrust itself forward, blocking the door.

 

Through the gap, Palia was glaring back in at me.

 

“Gasp, good heavens! Why must you startle people like that?”

 

Freesia was nowhere to be seen, having likely headed down ahead of her.

 

‘Did she seriously come back up after sending Freesia off? To think she still has things left to say to me. Are we really wrapped up in such a hot and dramatic relationship?

 

“I shall be watching you from now on. Enjoy the brief remains of your life until your power fully awakens.”

 

‘Just how long do you think that kind of hollow threat is going to work on me?’

 

Utterly dumbfounded, I let out a snort.

 

“I’ll handle my own life perfectly fine on my own. Go on and get moving. Freesia is waiting for you.”

 

“By the way, what exactly is your relationship with Freesia?”

 

Her voice was thick with an undercurrent of suppressed rage.

 

‘Oho, so it’s true that a mother figure is always weak when it comes to her child. I guess even a sociopathic mage is capable of affection, huh?’

 

I tilted my chin up and flashed a smug, utterly boastful smile.

 

“Freesia and I share an incredibly deep and close relationship. We are precious friends—practically sworn sisters.”

 

“You are Freesia’s friend…… you say?”

 

Palia wore a blank, stunned expression, seemingly caught off guard by my confident response.

 

‘Man, now this is what I call a refreshing sip of cider. It feels incredibly liberating. As expected, choosing the right friends is absolutely vital.’

 

The grip she had on the door loosened noticeably. Seizing the opening without missing a beat, I slammed the door shut with a loud thud and locked it tight.

 

 

***

 

 

It truly had been an incredibly long and grueling day.

 

Even after dealing with the Mage of Protection, a mountain of work still remained. By the time I finished preparing the documents required to establish the book club, it was past nine o’clock at night before I could make my escape—no, before I could leave work.

 

As I rode back to the Duke’s estate in the carriage that had been waiting outside the library, a powerful sense of déjà vu flashed through my mind.

 

‘Wait, didn’t I always work overtime at the library and leave late at night back before I reincarnated, too? Seriously, why is my destiny to work overtime every single day even after being trapped in a novel?’

 

Looking like a completely limp, exhausted piece of kimchi, I stepped into the grand entrance hall of the Duke’s estate.

 

A mural was painted across the high ceiling, and a luxurious chandelier shimmered like stars. The beautifully curved marble staircase branching to the left and right caught my eye all over again.

 

‘This place is far too extravagant for a work-weary employee like me to live in. I miss my modest official residence.’

 

Just as I was about to head up the stairs, something came rushing toward me, pitter-pattering straight into my arms.

 

“Sister, why are you so late!”

 

It was a young boy’s voice, laced with a mix of pouting and worry. A smile bloomed on my face before anything else out of sheer joy.

 

I buried my face into Michael’s soft blonde hair, which smelled of sunlight, basking in the warm embrace of his tiny body hugging me tight.

 

It felt as though all the fatigue from my grueling day was melting away.

 

Suddenly, Palia’s face as she held Freesia tenderly in her arms crossed my mind.

 

It hadn’t been the expression of a cold and ruthless Mage of Protection, but rather that of a mother cradling her beloved child.

 

‘Was Freesia that kind of existence to Palia? The precious child left behind by her closest friend, Verna. What kind of person was Verna? I want to know more about this woman whose soul supposedly resembles mine, but I suppose there will be an opportunity for that later.’

 

Shaking off the thoughts that were tangled together like a messy ball of yarn, I offered a greeting to the precious child in my arms.

 

“I am so sorry, Lord Michael. I’m home.”

 

Just having a place to return to and someone to welcome me back so warmly…… Why did it make my heart feel so full and give me so much strength?

 

“You must be exhausted, right? Have you had dinner yet?”

 

Facing those large, worry-filled eyes, I felt guilty all over again.

 

Causing a young boy to worry about me—I really am an unreliable adult.

 

“Of course! I don’t work when I’m hungry. I ate a ton of food before working, so I’m not tired at all.”

 

When I gave a spirited reply, Michael finally seemed reassured and let out a soft giggle.

 

“Since it’s late today, let’s talk tomorrow. Go on and rest, Sister. I will send up some warm tea. It will help soothe your fatigue.”

 

As Michael took such sweet care of me, he felt like a mother figure, making the bridge of my nose tingle with emotion.

 

‘Michael, it seems our roles have reversed. I’m the older sister who should be looking after you. I’m sorry.’

 

“By the way, why are you still awake? Don’t tell me you were waiting up for me?”

 

“Ah. No, it’s not like that. I was just about to go to sleep myself. Right, butler?”

 

Michael flusteredly made excuses, shooting a look to the butler for assistance. The butler, wearing a faint smile, took his young master’s side.

 

“That is correct, My Lady. The Young Lord was just about to retire for the night.”

 

“Hmm, is that so?”

 

I scanned Michael with a suspicious gaze until I spotted a black ink stain on the cuff of his blouse sleeve.

 

“You were working late into the night again, weren’t you?”

 

Michael looked embarrassed and quickly hid his sleeve behind his back.

 

“No, I wasn’t. I was just helping brother organize some documents a little bit.”

 

Even though he was an incredibly gifted prodigy, seeing young Michael work so hard to be of help to his older brother made my heart ache for him. He was at an age where he should be busy doing nothing but playing to his heart’s content.

 

“There are aides for that, so why are you handling the work yourself, Young Lord? It’s exhausting.”

 

“Still, brother is the one who gives the final approval. Since brother is so busy right now, I have to step in and do it on his behalf.”

 

Michael spoke maturely, his eyes shining with calm resolve.

 

In moments like this, he didn’t look like a cute young master, but rather a reliable patriarch carrying the responsibility of the ducal house.

 

‘He really is Calix’s brother—he inherited that fierce sense of responsibility straight from him.’

 

I let out a small sigh and added, “I’ll help you out after I get off work too.”

 

“No, you shouldn’t. You have a hard time too, Sister. I’m not tired at all. This is what I always do.”

 

“Well, I’m going to do it anyway. That way, I can at least look at your face while we talk.”

 

When I stubbornly insisted until the end, Michael formed a tender smile as if conceding defeat.

 

‘Hmm. It feels like the older sister and younger brother dynamics have flipped again. But I simply cannot sit by and watch my adorable Michael suffer. Of course not. Even if my body crumbles to pieces, this sister of yours will help you.’

 

Just as I was about to walk up the marble staircase, a great idea struck me, and I turned back around.

 

“Would you like to have some tea together in the study? I feel like that would help us sleep soundly.”

 

“Really, sister?”

 

Only then did Michael flash a bright, innocent smile perfectly fitting for a child.

 

 

***

 

 

I hurried to my room, washed myself in the bathwater the maid had prepared, and changed into comfortable clothes.

 

As I went down to the study and reached out to open the door, my gaze instinctively drifted to the Grand Duke’s office next door.

 

The office door was firmly shut. The servant standing guard at the study door gave a polite bow. Accepting his greeting, I asked casually as I passed by.

 

“Has His Grace returned yet?”

 

“He has not returned yet, Lady Diel.”

 

Ever since the State Council meeting, the amount of time Calix spent at the Duke’s estate had noticeably dwindled. To think he was so busy that he couldn’t even return home until late at night; the body rests easiest when sleeping at home, after all.

 

Stepping into the study, I found Michael dressed in a white nightgown, sitting on the sofa and reading a book. Sensing my presence, Michael stood up with a delighted expression.

 

“Sister, aren’t you tired? You really don’t have to push yourself.”

 

“I happen to be incredibly healthy, you know? Haven’t you heard of the Goddess of War?”

 

Ugh, it felt absolutely mortifying to utter that cringeworthy nickname with my own mouth, but if it meant easing Michael’s worries, this much was nothing.

 

Michael covered his mouth with his hand and snickered.

 

“That’s true. You are a celebrity in high society, sister. Whenever people gather, all they talk about is the Goddess of War.”

 

“Sigh, don’t even get me started. In the end, the burden of shame and embarrassment is entirely mine to bear.”

 

Right on cue, a maid approached holding a silver tray with two cups.

 

She handed Michael a steaming cup of warm goat’s milk, and passed me a unique, warm beverage. Looking closer, it was vin chaud, a delightful harmony of sweet fruit and deep wine aromas.

 

I had heard that in foreign countries, people boil wine with fruit and honey to prevent catching colds. It was wonderful to encounter vin chaud here.

 

“Grandfather Butler mentioned that you would prefer this, Sister.”

 

“Please make sure to tell the butler that I deeply respect him.”

 

We sat side by side on the sofa in front of the study fireplace, sipping our drinks.

 

The firelight from the hearth was soft and warm, filling the room with a cozy ambiance.

 

Staring into the crackling fire, I savored the vin chaud sip by sip.

 

Listening to the snapping and popping of the sparks made me feel wonderfully drowsy and relaxed.

 

‘It would be so nice if Calix could be here with us too……’

 

“I noticed His Grace hasn’t returned home yet.”

 

“He sent word that due to having many meetings, he will be sleeping at the library residence. The residence is quite close to the royal palace.”

 

“He must be having a difficult time since his work is so demanding.”

 

Michael cradled his milk cup with both hands, lowering his head.

 

“Yes. I’m worried about whether brother is eating his meals properly. At least he drops by the estate during the day to change his clothes.”

 

Seeing Michael sigh in worry for his older brother made me feel terribly sorry for him.

 

Just how much internal heartache had he been nursing while putting on a brave face? His heart was so admirable, yet it made my chest ache as if pierced by a tiny thorn.

 

“Please wait just a little longer. Once the establishment of the knighthood is finalized, the Grand Duke will be able to spend a lot of time with you, Young Lord.”

 

“I—I am perfectly fine.”

 

Michael’s eyes widened, and he shook his head vigorously.

 

“I just want brother to not have such a hard time. It—It is absolutely not because I want to play with brother or anything. It’s not like I’m a little child.”

 

‘Eek, so cute! Look at him getting flustered while spilling his true thoughts.’

 

Suppressing the overwhelming urge to snatch Michael up into a giant hug, I displayed a proud, motherly smile.

 

As we drank our tea, Michael and I chatted amiably about books, occasionally sharing soft laughter. Listening to Michael’s clear laughter, I turned my gaze out the study window.

 

Beyond the massive windowpane, a pitch-black night sky stretched out endlessly, as silver stars scattered their trembling starlight.

 

Why…… did the view make me think of him, the man who possessed eyes just like that night sky?