Loyalty amongst betrayal

(Lina)

The next morning when I woke up, I got dressed slowly, letting the quiet settle over me. This palace had always felt like a prison, but today, I was ready to take a step toward making it my own.

As I pinned my hair back, memories of the past few years floated through my mind. How hard Isabella fought for this title, for the respect that was supposed to come with it. 

Becoming her had been a battle, and not one everyone believed she deserved to win. 

But I will fight in court, proving to everyone that she was worthy. But the title alone hadn't been enough to win people over. 

It was just a start, a name. The real challenge was earning the loyalty and respect of the people here, especially after what I'd gone through with Nicholas.

Once I was ready, I headed down the hallway. I passed a few maids who quickly looked away, and I couldn't help but notice their whispers.