With that, Bien and Idel headed further into the bustling capital center.

“This place remains the same.”

“It seems so. Also, it looks like tailored suits are really in fashion now. I see many women wearing them.”

Tailored suits, popularized by the Duchess, were now widely worn, especially among women who were making their living in diverse fields.

Even though they couldn’t afford luxurious fabric, the sturdy and durable tailored suits were far more comfortable for work than lavish dresses.

This allowed Idel, also in a tailored suit, to walk through the capital center without feeling out of place.

Idel had her face veiled, but still drew the natural attention of passersby, likely due to her graceful demeanor.

“Miss Idel, this way please.”

Having been instructed not to use the title of “Your Highness” in places with other imperial citizens, Bien guided Idel to his side, keeping a vigilant eye on the surroundings.

Although Idel had risen in status to a Duchess, Bien seemed to be more tense than ever, possibly due to the attendant’s earlier warning.

Actually, Bien’s tension was due to a secret order from the Duke, something Idel was completely unaware of.

His vigilance reached a peak when their companion, identified as a target to keep an eye on, joined them.

“Miss Idel! There you are.”

“Did you have to wait long?”

“Not at all. I just arrived myself.”

Whether due to the anticipation or excitement of meeting Idel, Reinien had arrived much earlier than the agreed time. He had waited quite some time, but chose not to disclose that to Idel.

As Reinien moved to stand next to Idel, someone stepped between them.

“Greetings to Crown Prince Reinien. I am Bien, a maid of the Duke’s household and of the House of Ingrid.”
“Ah, I see. Pleased to meet you, Lady Vien.”

Vien, who usually greeted Reynien with a smile, was different this time. Though she was generally cheerful and adorable, her face was now stern, devoid of any laughter. She looked as serious as a soldier who had gone to war.

‘Is she nervous because she’s in front of Prince Reynien?’

Idel tilted her head as she watched Vien, but the truth was that Vien’s feelings were different.

‘So this is Prince Reynien.’

Vien slightly narrowed her eyes as she discreetly observed Reynien.

‘He does look as gentle as the rumors say. Certainly handsome, but not as much as our Duke.’

Ah, exactly.

Even though she had not been part of the Ducal house for long, Vien’s loyalty to the Duke was remarkable. Above all, the Duchess was the first person to ever win her heart, so in Vien’s eyes, no man could rival the Duke.

Furthermore…

“[Dash] Your name is Vien, correct?”

“[Dash] Yes, yes! That’s correct, Your Grace.”

In fact, before going out today, Vien had been called into the Duke’s office with Marlin. It was the first time Vien had seen the Duke so closely, and she was so nervous that her voice even trembled.

“[Dash] You grew up with the Duchess since you were from the Count’s house.”

“[Dash] I have served Her Grace since I was a child.”

“[Dash] Then you must know the Duchess well.”

“[Dash] What aspect are you referring to…?”

“[Dash] Everything about her—her tastes, hobbies, likes, and dislikes.”

“[Dash] …!”

Caught off guard by such questions, Vien was visibly surprised. She was deeply moved by the Duke, who asked for details only someone close to the Duchess would know.

Up until now, no one had ever shown interest in such things. Only the Duke had shown genuine interest and asked her about it.

Vien felt that the Duke truly cared for Idel. With the topic of ‘everything about the Duchess’ in mind, Vien nodded, planning to soon write a report.

“[Dash] I will promptly compile the information and present it to Your Grace.”

“[Dash] And there’s one more thing you have to do.”

“[Dash] Your command, please.”

“[Dash] I heard you’re accompanying the Duchess to the capital for a project.”

“[Dash] Yes, I intend to perform my duties well at her side.”

“[Dash] Do not leave the Duchess’ side and protect her. Especially when Prince Reynien is present…”

The Duke emphasized the last sentence particularly strongly.

“[Dash] Make sure she’s not too close to him.”

Looking at the Duke’s icy gaze, Vien felt both intimidated and relieved.

Knowing that this was also born from his affection for the Duchess, Vien was determined to fulfill the Duke’s command. Vien clenched her fists as if making a promise.