PBPGD

CHAPTER 116

While the nobles settled down in their rooms, the attendants moved busily to finish setting the magnificent dinner spread in the great hall.

The emperor's attendants joined in, knowing that the guests were famished from their long journey and the wait.

The dinner preparation ended as the best wines and champagnes were decanted and placed in glass bottles every few seats, along with various fruit juices.

Before she headed to Lia's room, Pipi visited the kitchens to pick up a bottle of apple juice. She noticed that similar bottles were placed across the table in the great hall, which lent credibility to the rumors she heard from the other maids that Del Casa's fruit vendors had been coming in and out of the manor the whole afternoon.

She clutched the bottle to her chest as she walked up the stairs. This juice was the only thing Lia had been able to keep down these past few days.

Pipi prayed to all the higher powers she could think of for Lia's quick recovery, for these red apples wouldn't be around much longer once the days grew warmer.

She turned a corner and walked down to the Bales' room, intent on meeting Lady Bale to ask for Betty. She took a deep breath, steadying herself.

Meeting her former mistress was a formidable prospect. Fortunately, she ran into Betty in front of the room doors.

"Betty!" Pipi called with a small grin. Betty walked up to her, a warm smile breaking her stern features. "Lady Camellia requests your presence."

"It's wonderful to see you," Betty said, taking Pipi's hands. "I heard you went through so much at the capital."

"Oh, I could go on for days, honestly."

"I would love to hear it." Betty nodded.

"But... Lady Camellia wishes to see me, you said?"

Pipi nodded back, noticing the worry and anticipation on Betty's face.

"Come by her room before dinner. I think the other noble ladies will be calling on her after the meal." She smiled at Betty as she walked away with slightly hurried steps.

As there wasn't much known about Lia publicly, the nobles sought to amass information about the new grand-duchess-to-be through the maids-and specifically, through Pipi.

Ignoring everyone who attempted to stop her, Pipi proudly strode straight to Lia's room.

"Is that apple juice?" Lia asked brightly, looking up from selecting her banquet dress with Edith.

"Yes, my lady. The cook added a bunch of ice cubes so that you can drink it chilled."

"Just in time, too. I was craving it," Lia said, licking her lips as she received the full glass from Pipi.

Meanwhile, Edith finally set a dress aside. It was a light blue chemise, simple yet lovely.

"This doesn't need a corset, so it should be nice and comfortable."

"Not at all. I need to go attend to Lady thar now, but take all the time you need. No need to rush," Edith emphasized as she left the room.

Lia fiddled with the glass while she watched Pipi bustle about.

What a burden I've become. I've even been forbidden from serving at the nunnery.

A knock sounded at the door, making her jolt.

"It's Betty, my lady," the guest announced. Lia and Pipi exchanged looks.

Lia nodded somewhat stiffly, her nervousness apparent. Pipi wiped her hands on her skirt, walking over to the door.