Page 32 of Lady's Steed
“For years I privately grumbled about the duke. How he didn’t always seem to have the best interests of the people at heart but rather his wealthy cronies. And while he served under a queen, his blatant misogyny made it hard for women like me who choose to remain unmarried and take on a more masculine role.”
“I still remember him telling me I should learn to play an instrument or sew because sword fighting and fiddling with the mechanical wonders of Verlora were unbecoming.” Avera grimaced. “I ignored him, but I would guess his words would have affected those with less confidence.”
“Not just words. Have you never wondered why there are no female soldiers? There is no rule barring them from applying to be in the royal army, and yet, while we do have some go through with the training, not a single one serves in the ranks.”
Avera pursed her lips. “I’d assumed a lack of interest or change of heart.”
“More like the test is geared to have them fail. The duke oversaw the submissions, and when a male he approved of did his arms test, he paired them with someone of equal or lesser strength and stature. But the women…” Josslyn’s mouth twisted. “He pitted them against men twice their size.”
The revelation had Avera blinking. “That’s so blatantly unfair. I’m surprised my mother allowed it.”
“She didn’t know. But as word got around, fewer and fewer applied. Why bother when they knew they’d simply be shamed into submission?”
“I assume you’ll be offering a more balanced trial?”
“Yes, and I have other ideas for change which will make some of the lords quite apoplectic. Did you know the ladies in Okkilam wear trousers and not just skirts? Some even show their ankles.” Josslyn’s bright eyes shone with mischief.
Avera couldn’t help but giggle. “Oh, it’s not just the lords who would be appalled. My seamstress might have a fit.” But Avera was intrigued. The idea of not fighting fabric when riding or training… How revolutionary.
“Now, while I do have an idea of some of the duke’s duties, I have to admit I’m also woefully ignorant of their extent. You’ll have to guide me in the beginning.”
A demand that led to Avera snorting. “I don’t know any more than you. I have no idea what I’m supposed to be doing. Thus far, I’ve been reading reports and signing documents, mostly relating to resolutions of disputes and doling out monies for items that seem legitimate. I have no idea how to rule.”
“Then I guess we’ll learn together.”
Together. Avera liked that word.
“Where should we start?” Avera waved to the pile of documents on her desk.
“If I might suggest a tour of the palace. I’ve only rarely visited as I was never one who enjoyed court. My understanding is the duke oversaw its upkeep and the staff.”
“More like he bossed around the heads of each section.” Avera ticked her fingers. “Let me see there’s the kitchen, stables, supplies, housekeeping, maintenance. The army is handled by Gustav and his band of rooks.”
“I wouldn’t dare try and poke my nose in his affairs. But I would like to meet those in charge of the sections. Find out what they’ll need from me in my new role.”
“Shall I have them fetched to your office? As duchess, you have the room across from mine.”
“I’d rather see them in person if you don’t mind. Get a feel for them in their environment.”
“A fine idea. I’ll join you since I need to stretch my legs.” Avera rose from her desk, and they exited, picking up a pair of rooks as shadows.
They began their mission by first finding the head cook. Lester managed the kitchen with a spoon-clutching fist. The moment he spotted Avera entering his domain, he barked, “Her Majesty is visiting. Look sharp!”
People stopped their tasks to drop into curtsies and bows.
Avera waved a hand. “As you were. I know you’re busy. I’m just here to introduce Duchess Druuven. She’ll be the one assisting me in managing affairs for our kingdom.”
“She’s the new duke?” Lester didn’t contain his note of surprise.
“I am.” Josslyn cocked her head. “And you must be the chef who makes those delicious cream pastries.”
“They’re a specialty of mine.” His chest puffed out.
“A delectable pleasure for the mouth. I assume you’ve been working on a fabulous menu for the coronation?”
“I’m still trying to coordinate the dishes based on what we have in the pantry. I’m afraid we’re running low on some items and thus I cannot be as elaborate as I like.”
“Running low? How so?” Josslyn asked.