As the Duchess, I found myself in a dimly lit room, its atmosphere heavy with tension. The maids, gathered before me, shared their grievances. One of them, her voice trembling, said, "Duchess, I get paid 10 silver coins as my wage. I'm not sure if others get paid the same or not." My astonishment was palpable as I realized that their meager earnings were a mere fraction of what they should have received.
"Grant," I said, addressing one of the mansion's staff who had interjected with concern, "what are you doing?"
He looked uneasy but responded, "Can't you see what I'm doing? I'm taking care of the needs of every worker. Is that a problem?"
My patience was wearing thin as I replied, "No, but the wages they are receiving are already clearly written in the account book, and they collect their pay at the end of each month. So, why is there such an extensive investigation?"