" He spread the rumors by himself??". Diane asked in surprise. She never thought it will be like this!!
" Why... Why did he do something like this??".
The Duchess shrugged. Sometimes, she does not even understand her own son. He does things that she finds stupid and crazy.
"It is only him that knows what he usually thinks in that head of his. Diane...". The Duchess paused. Diane's expression turned solemn. For as long as she had known the Duchess, she had never called her full name before. This time, it means whatever she wants to say is pretty important.
" Diane, the hour of darkness will soon fall upon us. Very soon, this country will be plunged into failure, pain, amongst other things. I want you to promise me something. No matter what happens, always support the House of the Duchess, betrayal will not be tolerated". The Duchess made her stand, she wants Diane to chose hers.
Diane nodded seriously. She did not hesitate to give her reply.
" Your Grace, I, Diane McKart swear allegiance to the Duchess and only the Duchess. Your will is my command Your Grace, nothing can change that".
" Good!! Good!!". The Duchess laughed heartily, obviously satisfied with Diane's choice and response.
" Child, you will be treated well. I promise you that".
Diane smiled. Although she is happy, there are no signs on her face. If it were to be others, there is no way an expression of greed or excitement won't be expressed. They will use this opportunity to curry favor. But Diane now s like a block of ice. An invisible wall around her to keep people from prying in.
For the Duchess, taking in an unpredictable woman like Diane is dangerous but Diane will be much needed in this fight.
" Very well child. Run along now, mingle among the people. It will do you good". The Duchess sent Diane away,the latter trying her best not to roll her eyes as it seen as a sign of disrespect.
" Oh! Oh!! Don't be a lubberwort. Gather your strength and carry this inside!! It is of important use!!".
The man she was scolding retorted in anger " I am but a franklin!! Never done work in my entire life!! How dare you scold me and tell me to carry this?! Apprise a servant to do this work!!'. The man threw his hands over his shoulders after dropping the box.
Diane looked away, what happened there is none of her business. Unexpectedly, the pudgy woman saw her.
" Come here!! Come here!! Help your master carry this heavy box. You will be rewarded". The woman probable thought Diane is a servant, although a servant can never wear a dress as fancy as what she is wearing right now.
" Madam, I can help you call a servant".
" Are you not one??". The woman really seemed surprised.
A little bit annoyed at the woman's blindness Diane replied coldly " I am not Madam".
" I'm sorry. I didn't notice". The woman apologized for not realizing her mistake sooner.
"Oh... Madame, you are not wrong. This woman here is lesser than a servant it should be". Lady Joanne said from afar. A smirk on her pale face.
Diane placed her arms in front of her body, she didn't plan on backing down if this lady wants a fight.
"Pray tell, Lady Joanne, what you mean by that?? It is an unforseen affair that the daughter of a mere Earl can insult the Governess of the Duchess's house. How odd". Diane used her title to give have the first kill. Although being a Governess is not an honorary title, she has the support of the Duchess. So offending her will also count as offending the Duchess.
Unfortunately, Lady Joanne didn't seem to understand.
Lady Joanne snorted loudly, the pig like sound shocking Diane.
Disdain appeared in Diane's eyes.
"Do you think being a Governess is a worthy position?? I should respect and honor you?? You must be joking".
" Lady Joanne, you should pay attention to your actions. You might bring shame to your family by acting like a boorish and uncultured lady, do remember not to ever make that sound in front of others. You will be laughed at". Diane's inner governess attitude came out, her reprimand came out on instincts.
" What do you mean??".
" Lady Joanne, although you might be dull witted, I believe you should understand my words as they have been perfectly broken down for you. What exactly do you not understand in " Do not make that sound in public or your family will be shamed because of you".
" You... You...".
" Lady Joanne, it will be wise to close your mouth lest your jaw will be smudged with your lip painting". Lady Joanne closed her mouth as fast as possible. She stared wide eyed at Diane.
Diane's words to people who were there are only meant to advice Lady Joanne. However, women who truly understood the jabs knows what she implied. Every words of hers criticizes Joanne for her lack of elegance, poise and character.
" Now, if you will excuse me. I have important things to attend do. Have a good evening". Diane left the ladies, once again embarrassing Lady Joanne.
Who asked Lady Joanne to challenge fire?? She can not control the fire so she will easily get burned.
" Little Lady, have you seen Lady Eliose anywhere?? I have not seen her since we arrived". Diane called out.
" You know how my sister is. She hates socializing, she should either be with mother or Richard. Oh look... There she is. She is with mother, what did I tell you??".