Lola wasted no time in performing her queenly duties. The first task she had set was to assemble all the wives of the lords and young maidens in the palace. She was determined to begin her new role with purpose, though a flutter of nerves stirred within her as she stood in front of her mirror, smoothing out the delicate folds of her gown.
"You're being awaited, my lady," Silas's voice called from behind the door, his tone firm but calm.
The door creaked open, and Lola stepped out, her hand lightly brushing over her dress. "Do I look good, Silas?" She asked, trying to mask the slight tremble in her voice.
Silas gave a reassuring smile. "You look splendid, my lady. There is nothing to be afraid of."
Lola didn't quite believe him, though. She glanced at him, her brows furrowed. "What if they hate me?"
"They won't hate you, my lady. They will love you," Beatrix said brightly, trying to offer reassurance.
Lola rolled her eyes and let out a frustrated sigh. "Easy for you to say," she muttered under her breath.
"It's true," Emmeline chimed in, her voice soft and warm. "You have a kind heart. I'm sure they'll adore you."
Lola gave a small smile, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. "Whether they hate me or love me," she said with a faint chuckle, "depends on how I handle this. Let's just get it over with."
Silas, clearly growing impatient, took a step forward. "We're wasting time, my lady. Shall we go?"
Lola shot him a playful look. "You're too impatient for an old man."
Silas narrowed his eyes but said nothing. He had learned long ago not to argue with her.
"Is everything ready?" Lola asked, her voice quieter now, betraying a slight vulnerability.
Beatrix nodded, her face beaming with enthusiasm. "Yes, my lady. Everything you planned is ready. There's nothing to worry about."
With a deep breath, Lola nodded and stepped toward the door.
The double doors of the grand hall opened with a soft groan, and Lola stepped inside, her heart hammering in her chest. A hush swept through the room as the women gathered around, whispering behind their fans and veils.
"Your Majesty, Empress Charlotte Cavendish is entering," the attendant announced, his voice carrying through the room.
Lola's throat tightened as she glanced around at the sea of faces, many of which were not pleased by her presence. She straightened her shoulders, giving a polite bow to the group, though she could feel the weight of their judgment.
"Good day, everyone," she greeted, her voice a little shakier than she intended. The women responded with muted murmurs, some barely acknowledging her presence.
Lola's eyes scanned the crowd, feeling the cold stares of disapproval. She took a steadying breath before speaking again. "I know that some of you would rather be anywhere else, and that most of you are upset by the fact that I am here, by the fact that the Emperor has appointed me as acting queen."
The women began to whisper among themselves, their voices rising in frustration. Lola clenched her fists at her sides, but she refused to show any sign of fear.
"And I understand why," she continued, her voice gaining strength. "But I assure you, I am here to serve you, and I will do my best to be a good queen whether you like it or not."
Some of the women scoffed, murmuring bitterly.
"Look at her, trying to patronize us," one whispered under her breath, causing a ripple of laughter among the others.
Lola took another steadying breath, but before she could respond, a lady in the back raised her hand, her eyes full of suspicion.
"There's no need to raise your hand," Lola said, her tone sharp enough to silence the murmurs. "You may speak freely."
The lady's voice was icy. "Then why exactly have you called us here? What is your purpose?"
Lola felt a knot form in her stomach, the tension thickening in the air. She glanced briefly at Silas, seeking some guidance. He gave her a slight nod, indicating that the decision was hers alone.
The room fell deathly silent as Lola stood there, her eyes scanning the sea of expectant faces. Was she truly prepared for what was to come next?
The moment seemed to stretch on forever, and Lola knew that how she responded could change everything.