“That’s for holding the demon, young man,” the duke said, his back to them.
The servant Hans came in and quickly collected the plates and trays. Johanna noticed how he stayed well clear of the objects his master had put on the table.
Nellie met Johanna’s eyes and frowned. “What’s that for?” she mouthed.
Johanna shrugged.
Loesie glared at the duke’s back, her face a mask of distrust.
The duke came back to the table, tap, tap, tap, and put a carafe next to the cup. He placed the walking stick so that it leant against the edge of the table and made a show of slowly lowering himself in the chair with a groan.
“What’s all this for?” Johanna asked into the silence.
The duke waited until Hans had carried out the last tray of plates and tableware and shut the door behind him. He poured a da
