Nodding back at Hermant the young Duke seems annoyed, his normally pleasant and airy demeanour is replaced by controlled fury.

"I'm not sure what you are playing at Gaspard, but stepping in here and questioning my behaviour seems a little provocative. Perhaps you need some perspective!!?"

The words boom across the room, followed by a moments silence.

Cracking his neck in tension, his face returns to its boyish form, his manner again light, even flippant.

"Get yourself w'ore and work out some of your tension Neu'ville. The ride seems to 'ave addled your brains."