Susan's eyes widened as she recognized a familiar figure at the dance hall entrance. He was dressed like a nobleman and with a decent black cloak, which he kept on even after entering. It was Daniel, the man who had escorted her home the day she became the Duke's subordinate. He moved gracefully through the crowd, returning the smiles of the court ladies who glanced at him. Susan's lips curved slightly. Then she noticed him grab a glass of wine and casually walk towards the Duke. He toasted him and exchanged a few words. The Duke talked to some ministers but barely paid attention to Daniel. The ministers wisely withdrew. Daniel and the Duke seemed to chat a few words. Then the Duke looked towards the Chancellor.