The Duke comes back soon, as promised. He's now dressed for the day, and he's also munching on something.

«I'll convince my Duchess to eat more, someday,» he says, noticing that I haven't had anything yet. Even my tea was sipped by someone else.

I follow him to his office, and I sit on one of the small couches next to the window. I fix the shawl on my shoulders, and I thank fate for the warm socks on my feet. This room is rather cold, as it hasn't been used for a while. I've come here a couple of times to select some books, but the fire has never been lit in the last week. Soon, autumn will start, and I can't imagine how awful it will be in these windy hallways.

«Has my Duchess already read all my books?»

«I only touched a couple,» I protest.

«Have you already read this one?» he asks, and he brings me a thick tome about the history of Ethiro.

«Not this particular one. I've learned the history of the whole continent, long ago, though.»

«I suggest this one. The author described the events while they were happening. It's almost like reading a legend, or a story. He didn't have the understanding of the future, so it's also interesting to notice the mistakes he made.»

«Any other suggestion?»

«I'm sure my Duchess already read the 'Art of war'.»

«In two different translations.»

«See? It's difficult to give reading suggestions to you, Theodora.»

«Are we here to talk about books?»

«Ah, no... First of all, I promised I would solve your problems. At this very moment, my servants are bringing a watch into your room. They will show to your maids how to recharge it in the evening, so you don't need to worry about it.»

When did he have time for that? It's something I mentioned briefly, yet it's already solved.

«Also, don't you like the jewels I sent you?»

I tilt my head.

«I'm wearing a pair of them,» I point out. I have a pair of white gold earrings on. They're very light and simple, like those I'm used to.

I didn't change too many jewels in Polis, and I used a couple of simple gold earrings all the time. It was more for the irrational fright that the holes in my ears would close. I didn't want to pierce my ears again, so I wore earrings for that sake.

I was so used to them that I forgot to leave them in the Palace when I delivered myself to the enemy. I noticed it during the journey, and I left them there until the moment when I faced the Emperor. I took them off before walking in the throne hall, and they're now hidden in a drawer in my room. The only thing I have left from Polis since the dress has been thrown away.

«Your face doesn't need too many decorations, indeed,» the Duke comments.

I wasn't used to showing off in the Palace since I was the highest charge. Not having a classic nobility, jewels were truly just ornaments. Here, though, they're weapons.

A Duchess can't go around as unadorned as I am. He's right.

«I will pay more attention in the future. I think I'll need some help, though.»

«That's why I'll ask one of my female cousins to be your lady in waiting.»

The cousin of an Archduke is too high in position to accept being a lady in waiting.

«She's older than you, but I think you two will get along. That's if you don't already have a name in mind, my Duchess.»

«I don't,» I utter. I don't know anyone here. Except for Countess Burbon and her friends, but I've already decided not to talk with them again.

«If you don't have any issue, that matter is settled.»

I nod and start to get up. The Duke certainly has so much work, and my part is done. I'll go and read the book he suggested until lunchtime.

«Are you in a hurry, Theodora?»

«No,» I say. «I don't want to waste your grace's time.»

«Oh, I almost forgot about your schedule! Is it already time for your stroll?»

«It's a bit early,» I sigh.

«Then, I'll accompany you. Now, please give me some more of your time.»

«What is the matter?»

«We should talk about the Duchess' responsibilities. Will you accept to fulfil the duties of a lady of the house?»

«Am I allowed to do that?» I ask. My expression shows him the struggles of a woman without anything to do. And my hope to finally find an occupation.

«Only if you want,» he says, but it's clear enough I won't refuse.

I sit back, with my arms slightly folded in my lap. I obediently look at the Duke, happy that I'm needed somewhere.

«What does a Duchess do?» I inquire, innocently. I'm realising, at this moment, that I have no clue about a noblewoman's duties. They're supposed to administer the house if they don't have state positions, which doesn't happen here in the Empire.

«Usually, a lady administers the house and the personnel. She makes sure there's everything that is needed, and that the money is used in the right way. Also, she organises tea parties and galas.»

My enthusiasm soon dies down.

Administering and stocking are fine, but what about the parties? I haven't ever organised one in my whole life! I always see the end result, never the process to reach it.

«You won't need to do it alone,» the Duke chuckles, reading my expression.

He probably misinterpreted my worries, thinking that I don't want to trouble myself with bureaucratic tasks. But I don't need help with that.

«And you won't need to organise events too often. Once a month while we're here in the Palace. Twice, after we go to the North.»

«Oh,» I utter, surprised. So, the Duke did read through me.

«You'll have a small allowance that you can use to your wish. You can start a business, or do charity. Whatever.»

It's getting interesting. Money is power, so if I can make that allowance raise in value...

«And you have to take care of your husband. Don't forget about it...»

I sigh, wondering how much of this is the truth, and how much is only the Duke's teasing.