Minxi asks her mother how she manages to stay young. Minxi says that her heart is not trapped in the roles society assigns her. She is still herself, no matter what role she has. For many years, she didn't know what her mother meant, until she saw her mother's bright, aggressive eyes. She finally understood what her mom meant. They're on their way to the palace, and the duke suddenly looks cold and defensive. He doesn't say a word to Minxi since they got into the carriage. He's clearly alienating her on purpose.