As the Celebration Went on inside the Palace.
The elegant and courteous Duchess Philippa, Lady Emilia's mother, walked up to the newlyweds and smiled broadly. As she gave her daughter and soon-to-be son-in-law an embrace, her eyes glimmered with pride and happiness.
The Duchess Philippa spoke with emotion in her voice, saying, "My dearest Emilia, my heart overflows with happiness for you." "You and Duke Matheo make a truly remarkable pair, and I couldn't be more thrilled for your union."
Duchess Philippa turned warmly and sincerely extended her hand to Duke Matheo. "And you, Duke Matheo, are a true gentleman. Your love for my daughter shines through in everything you do, and I am honored to welcome you into our family."
With a polite smile that conveyed his sincere gratitude for her kind remarks, Duke Matheo took her hand. He said, "Thank you, Duchess Philippa," in a kind voice. "Your support means the world to us, and we are truly grateful to have your blessing."
Lady Emilia experienced a surge of appreciation as they had a poignant moment together. She couldn't wait to start this new chapter of her life with Duke Matheo at her side since she realized how fortunate she was to have such a caring and encouraging mother by her side.
The following day, a carriage came up to the Ruthven mansion's magnificent entryway, signaling the arrival of a famous guest, as the early light illuminated the estate. Lady Austine Ruthven, Duke Matheo's intimidating aunt, entered the room with poise and elegance, her presence drawing attention.
Lady Austine was elegantly dressed, a string of pearls around her neck, and she had a stately bearing that belied her noble origins. She gave off an air of sophistication and authority. Her footsteps echoed in the marble-floored entryway as she entered the estate, her acute eyes taking in everything about her with great curiosity.
The servants ran to meet her as soon as they saw her, extending cordial greetings and guiding her into the study room, where Duke Matheo and Lady Emilia were waiting.
She looked at the couple as soon as she walked into the room, and a small smile appeared on her lips. "My dear nephew, Duke Matheo," she uttered, her tone polished but slightly calculating. "It is a pleasure to see you both looking so well."
Duke Matheo stood up to bow respectfully to his aunt, and Lady Emilia curtsied elegantly. Duke Matheo said, "Lady Austine, we are honored by your visit," in a courteous but reserved tone. "To what do we owe the pleasure of your company?"
Lady Austine sat down, her bearing both mysterious and majestic. "I've come to wish you congratulations on your impending marriage," she murmured, her eyes glistening with a passion that was unreadable. "But I also come bearing news of great importance that concerns our family."
With a perplexed expression, Lady Austine looked at Lady Emilia, examining the young woman in front of her. "Lady Emilia, as the future Duchess of Ruthven, there are certain expectations placed upon you," she said in an icy yet commanding tone.
Lady Emilia was not sure what to anticipate from Duke Matheo's imposing aunt, met her look with a mixture of intrigue and apprehension.
"You will have to know the customs of our noble family," Lady Austine went on, her voice growing more commanding. "You must learn to navigate the complexities of high society, to conduct yourself with grace and dignity at all times."
Lady Emilia nodded, feeling the weight of Lady Austine's stare while her heart raced with fear. She felt there was more than just politeness hiding behind the steely ambition to shape her into the ideal duchess.
Lady Austine said with a harder tone, "But keep in mind, my dear, that being a duchess has its own set of duties. You will be expected to uphold the honor and reputation of the Ruthven name, no matter the cost." Once more, Lady Emilia nodded, but her eyes wavered a little from her aunt's close examination.
"You really must receive the right instruction to get ready for the duties that lie ahead of you," Lady Austine added, her gaze never leaving Lady Emilia's face.
When Lady Emilia understood how big of a chore this was, her nerves were straining at the seams. She was aware that Lady Austine had harsh standards and merciless judgments, and that she would not tolerate any mistakes.
Duke Matheo cleared his throat, interjecting firmly, "With all due respect, Aunt Austine, Lady Emilia is already well-equipped to assume her duties as Duchess. She possesses all the qualities necessary to lead with grace and dignity."
Lady Austine's lips thinned into a displeased line as her gaze froze. "And yet, Duke Matheo, tradition dictates that proper training is essential for any noblewoman of her standing. It is not a matter of opinion but a matter of duty."
With the weight of her aunt's expectations bearing down on her, Lady Emilia shifted uneasily. She cast a quick glance at Duke Matheo and begged him not to say anything.
Duke Matheo looked up at her, understanding softening his features. "Lady Austine, while I respect tradition, I believe that Lady Emilia's natural talents and instincts will serve her well as Duchess. I have every confidence in her abilities."
Lady Austine's eyes flickered with irritation, and her nostrils flared slightly. "Your confidence is noted, Duke Matheo. However, I must insist that Lady Emilia undergo the training prescribed for her station. It is non-negotiable."
Duke Matheo's jaw tensed, his resolve firm. "Aunt Austine, I understand your concerns, but Lady Emilia and I ", "I understand, Aunt Austine," Lady Emilia began to speak, her voice steady despite the flutter of nerves in her chest while interrupting Duke Matheo. "I accept the challenge before me, and I am fully committed to fulfilling my duties as Duchess to the best of my abilities."
Lady Austine's expression went from one of little astonishment to one of slight approbation. "Very well, Lady Emilia," she said, her voice a little less harsh. "I shall arrange for your training to commence without delay."
With a sense of resolve settling over her, Lady Emilia nodded. "Thank you, Aunt Austine. I appreciate your guidance and support."
Duke Matheo put a comforting hand on Lady Emilia's shoulder, adoration and pride visible in his gaze. He said, "You are more than capable, my dear," with confidence in his voice.
With her spirits lifted by Duke Matheo's support, Lady Emilia confronted the upcoming difficulties with renewed vigor, prepared to accept her position as Duchess and govern with dignity and strength.
"Okay, Its settle then I shall leave you two and I will unpacked my things" Lady Austine replied as she left.
Lady Austine's piercing stare lingered on Lady Emilia as she turned to exit the room, her lips twisted into a faint sneer that revealed much about her true intentions.
Her tone was carefully coated with scorn. "I hope you will see the wisdom in my guidance, Lady Emilia," she said. "You have much to learn if you are to fulfill your duties as Duchess of Ruthven."