These Old Shades · Chapter
The Arrival of Another Player in the Game explained
As the Duke of Avon waits impatiently for Gaston and Madame Field to arrive with Léonie's chaperone, Lady Fanny Marling unexpectedly appears, having left her husband Edward to join the party bound for Paris.
What happens
As the Duke of Avon waits impatiently for Gaston and Madame Field to arrive with Léonie's chaperone, Lady Fanny Marling unexpectedly appears, having left her husband Edward to join the party bound for Paris. Rupert, recovering from his wound, observes a change in Avon's demeanor and suspects his brother has fallen in love with Léonie. Avon reveals his deep hatred for the Comte de Saint-Vire, vowing to crush him for his attack on Léonie.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Falling action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This chapter is the dramatic climax because it marks the psychological and emotional peak of the Duke of Avon’…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Love and Sacrifice
Avon's protective love for Léonie is evident in his vow to crush Saint-Vire, and Rupert observes that Avon has fallen in love with her.
- Revenge and Forgiveness
Avon explicitly states his intention to make Saint-Vire pay in full for the attack on Léonie and for past wrongs.
- Family and Belonging
The bond between Avon and Rupert is highlighted through Avon's unusual kindness, and Léonie declares she belongs to Avon.
Characters to notice
- Justin, Duke of Avon
Shows unusual kindness to Rupert, reveals his hatred for Saint-Vire, and is suspected by Rupert of being in love with Léonie.
- Léonie de Bonnard
Delights in the delay of Gaston and Madame Field, teases Avon, and demonstrates her loyalty and affection toward him.
- Lord Rupert Alastair
Recovering from his wound, observes the change in Avon's behavior and deduces his brother's feelings for Léonie.
- Lady Fanny Marling
Arrives unexpectedly, having left her husband Edward to join the Paris venture, offering to chaperone Léonie.
- Comte de Saint-Vire
Mentioned as the object of Avon's vengeance for his attack on Léonie and for past grievances.
Key passages
“I am not afraid of Monseigneur. You are just a coward, Rupert.”
Léonie declares she is not intimidated by Avon and calls Rupert a coward.
Shows Léonie's growing confidence and her playful dynamic with both Avon and Rupert.
“Because of what he did to my infant, softly echoed his Grace. Yes, child.”
Avon confirms that his hatred for Saint-Vire is primarily due to the attack on Léonie.
Reveals the depth of Avon's protective feelings and his motive for revenge.
“Thunder an' turf! He's fallen in love with the chit!”
Rupert realizes that Avon is in love with Léonie.
A key moment where Rupert perceives the change in his brother's emotions.
