"Oh, the locked room is merely an unused one, so it's best not to try to open it. Even if you manage to, you'll only be greeted by layers upon layers of dust."
Why would they lock it? It was unusual to lock rooms in a mansion, no matter how large. Count Alaric had always kept the rooms clean. The Duke couldn't simply admit he was curious. Was there another reason?
Seraphina's curiosity about the room faded quickly. She had explored much of the mansion. Now, there was something else she needed to understand.
"Who is responsible for managing the finances of this estate?"
The butler's steps halted at Seraphina's question.
"The Duchess should handle the finances, but as you know, the position has been vacant for so long that they left it to me. I provide a brief monthly report to the Duke."
"May I see the finance report then?"