The Greatest Villainess (Completed)

Chapter 36

We spent a few more days in the President's nation, ensuring all negotiations were concluded before departing. His Majesty was meticulous in making sure that the agreement was a success, leaving no room for doubt. The Empire could not afford to linger; every additional day or week wasted was a step closer to disaster. A swift resolution was imperative to save us from the crisis threatening to engulf our nation.

At sunrise, we finally arrived at the Imperial Palace. The palace staff warmly greeted us, their faces lit with relief at our return. I, however, was too drained to appreciate their welcome. Without sparing a word, I made my way directly to my chamber, my body weighed down by the exhaustion of our duties. It was almost laughable—here we were, pinakamakapangyarihang tao sa buong imperyo, yet we were more exhausted than the lowest servant. Where is the justice in that?

I collapsed onto my bed, groaning as the weight of the past days pressed down on me. My lady-in-waiting, Sarah, gently removed my shoes, her quiet presence a comfort. "Sarah, I don’t want to be disturbed until lunch," I murmured, my voice thick with weariness.

"Masusunod, Your Majesty," she responded, her voice soft and obedient. I heard the faint rustle of her gown as she exited the room, leaving me in blessed silence. My eyes fluttered shut almost immediately, and within moments, I was fast asleep.

The next morning, His Majesty made an unexpected announcement. The palace would be hosting a grand banquet, and to everyone’s surprise, commoners were invited alongside the nobles. It was a bold statement meant to show that, no matter the challenges or crises we faced, the Empire would stand strong and unyielding, its people united.

The banquet was to be held in the grand field just in front of the palace, a spacious area capable of accommodating a large crowd. As preparations went underway, I found myself standing by the window of my chamber, watching the activity below. I wasn’t in the mood to venture out, especially with the palace staff so preoccupied. From my vantage point, I could see them bustling about, setting up decorations, tables, and preparing for the evening’s festivities.

When night fell, the long-anticipated banquet began. The grand field, which had been empty hours earlier, was now packed with people. The sheer number of attendees was astounding—nobles, commoners, and everyone in between, all gathered to celebrate. The atmosphere was vibrant, filled with laughter, music, and the clinking of glasses. It should have been a joyous occasion, but as I looked around, I felt nothing. No excitement, no pleasure. It was as if the merriment around me was happening in a different world.

I attended the banquet's introduction alongside the Emperor, standing by his side as we greeted the crowd. But as soon as my presence was no longer required, I excused myself. The lively event held no appeal for me. I would much rather return to the quiet of my chamber and sleep than remain amidst the noise. And so, without a second thought, I left the festivities behind.

Habang sinusuklay ko ang aking buhok, I suddenly stopped when I heard a soft, feminine groan. My brow furrowed, and I glanced around, scanning the room for the source. My eyes then caught a figure standing on the balcony.

I clenched my fists, fury building within me. How dare they invade my privacy! Without hesitation, I marched toward the balcony, pushing aside the thin curtain that shielded it. But when I stepped out, I was taken aback by what I saw. There, standing before me, was a startled woman. She looked frail, her complexion pale as if she hadn't rested in days. Her hair was jet black, but her eyelashes and even her eyebrows shimmered in a striking silver, and her eyes glowed a deep red. She was undeniably beautiful, though alarmingly out of place. I blinked as she suddenly appeared anxious.