9
We stood in a line, just like we had when the Prince had first arrived, but judging from the lack of fancy clothing and the other servants not being here, I guessed we weren't going to be entertaining another wealthy visitor. Which made me wonder what the Duchess was up to. It wasn't like her to even talk to one of us, let alone gather us all.
She paced back and forth in front of us, her austere black and white striped gown only serving to make her a more imposing figure than ever. I tried not to let that get to me.
"As some of you may be aware, the royal family are holding a ball tomorrow night," the Duchess said.
All the other girls stood up straighter instantly, probably because they guessed at where this was going. She'd need attendants, it was a sign of power and prestige to hav
