"My court knows you are my closest advisor and dearest friend, and have been for years," Auguste says, not particularly interested in debating the point. "I'm sure they're more surprised that I haven't yet bestowed honors upon you. But keep your mouth shut about it for now, even if you hear some rumors about the new Duke of Amberley."

Taking a seat nearby, Auguste puts his feet up on the table, leaning back comfortably and relaxing in the face of Nyx's bewilderment. "In the meantime, and as for Laurent, I want you very specifically to prevent anyone from flirting with him."