Rebekah P.O.V
The palace has been in mourning for five days. Today being the last day of mourning while the general public remained blissfully unaware of my sister's death. Only members of our family except for the Royal family and the palace workers were aware of her death. Sending their condolences in our time of grief.
While my father had been reluctant to leave there was an urgent meeting in a village outside of Awa that required his presence. Making last-minute arrangements he had left in the early hours of the day with a few Royal guards. His decision to leave without a single guard had been easily swayed by my words of concern. The fear of losing another loved one was too great to ignore. With no progression with the investigation into Lizzy's death, my mother and Scarlet stay at the place were extended until the day of the wedding. And the number of guards in the palace had doubled overnight.
All guests deemed as important were to be escorted by three guards and their attendants. The need for tight security was a must since we weren't sure if Lizzy's death was a threat to the Northwest family or not. The details of her investigation had been kept secret to only a few. Unfortunately, I was not one of those persons who were aware of the full details. Still, we proceeded with caution.
As the days of mourning went by my mother and Scarlet's lack of interest in the death of someone dear was surprising. Their tear-streaked faces and looks of concern had been the sight of a loving family in grieving their loss. Though those signs of sadness and worry had quickly disappeared with each day that passed. It was as if her existence had been erased. An unusual sight for a family whose daughter's life was taken from her. Their behavior was one I could not understand.
My family who had gone about their normal routine had left me wondering if I was the only one who cared. The one with restless nights drenched in sweat and tears. Waking up in the middle of the night paralyzed in fear. Panting for breath as my heart raced away inside my chest. Her death affecting me more than it did them.
"Linda, what do I have on my schedule for today?" I asked as we turned a corner heading in the direction of the Royal Library. As per tradition I had worn a simple black gown and a pair of black heels. My hair styled to the side as it cascaded down my shoulder.
Flipping the pages of her notebook she read the words scribbled across the page. "First on your agenda for the day is your morning history and etiquette lessons with her majesty, Queen Mariah from 9:00hrs to 12:00hrs. After your lessons with her majesty arrangements will be made for you to have lunch with lady Scarlet and Madame Rosalie. At 13:30hrs you have dance lessons in the western ballroom with Sir Alex and his majesty, Prince Arthur who will be filling for his majesty, Prince Marcus to practice your first dance at your upcoming engagement ceremony. At 15:00hrs you'll be meeting with her majesty again to have the royal tailor take your measurements for the dress that will be worn for the ceremony." She said in one breath, pausing for a moment to flip the page again."Your schedule is free for the evening." She finished as I hummed in acknowledgment.
My schedule was lighter than I had expected. After Lizzy's funeral, I've had a busy schedule in preparation for my future responsibilities. A much-needed distraction from my uncontrollable emotions. Luckily I was quite adept at multi-tasking.
Not only was I grateful for the distraction it also helped to solidify my resolve. The reality that I was a powerless woman without any backing was disturbing. Whether I had made the right decision or not was unclear. The path I've chosen may lead to my doom but if it meant I could get justice for my sister and make a change in the lives of the less unfortunate then it would be worth the sacrifice.
"Lady Rebekah are you alright? You don't seem to be in good health." Linda asked, worry laced in her voice. I knew she had noticed the change in my mood. No doubt my expression had changed while I was lost in thought.
"I'm fine there is no need to worry." I gave her a reassuring smile. "But more importantly is there any word on Prince Marcus's return from District 3?" I asked as we stood in front of the large double doors to the library.
"No malady there is no official word on when his majesty will return. Though I've heard rumors that his stay may last until the day of the engagement ceremony." She replied. My attempts to speak with him were unsuccessful. His frequent visits to District 3 were starting to anger me. It felt as if he was purposely avoiding me by leaving each time I tried to speak to him. Though I knew he was helping with the investigation it did not stop the frustration I felt.
His stay this time was longer than the usual few hours he spent there. I had hoped that he would return sooner. I needed him to guarantee Aunt Helen's safety before I met with Scarlet and my mother. I've had a few days to reflect on my behavior towards my situation. The reality of having a person's life in the palm of my hands was terrifying. One little mistake and I would be the reason Linda loses her mother. Despite how unfair my current situation was I kept delaying and avoiding all meetings with them in the name of being busy. Once I'm convinced that no harm will come to Aunt Helen I will agree to meet with them.
"Please notify me of his arrival the minute he returns to the palace. There is an urgent matter I must discuss with him." I said as she nodded her head in understanding.
Turning to face the guards silently listening to our conversation I gave them my orders "Our arrangement for visits in the palace will remain the same. The guards at my sides will be stationed outside the door and the other will join myself and Linda in the library." I said with authority. A slight tremble in my hands was the only sign of the discomfort I felt from speaking in such a manner.
While I've lived the life of a noblewoman wearing elegant dresses and attending luxurious parties. The life in the spotlight that my family adored was not what I desired. I preferred to stay in the shadows away from the gossiping and power-hungry women of the capital. Never feeling like I fit in even if I walked and talked like a noblewoman of high society.
If given the chance I would have liked to live in a smaller house than the Northwest manor with a man I loved once I was of age to be wed. Going on vacation and spending time as a family. Being around friends I trust and having casual conversations about a visit to a new place or even about the weather. A dream that will never happen.
"Yes, your Majesty." They said in unison as Linda opened the door. Making our way inside with hope for a brighter future.
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Hours of reading and reciting had gone by in the blink of an eye. Aunt Mariah was standing in the middle of the room dressed in a simple burgundy gown with gold embroidery. Her long black hair styled into an elegant bun and a golden crown perfectly fixed onto her head. Her make up flawlessly done.
"Rebekah Darling do you know what qualities a queen must have to efficiently rule a kingdom?" Aunt Mariah asked as she took a sip of her earl grey tea.
"I would have to say no your Majesty. I do not know what qualities make a good Queen." I said as she smiled in response. It was true that I did know what qualities a queen must-have. Though I'm sure Scarlet must have the qualities she spoke of since she was originally chosen to be the next queen. Even if it was short-lived.
Standing from her seat on the small chair I watched in amazement as she made her way around the room with the confidence of a woman in power. Her gown flowing with each graceful step she took. Her natural elegance and confidence were a sign of her years of experience.
"A Queen is strong, empowered, and confident. Her presence extends beyond that of her body and beauty. She is thoughtful and compassionate towards her people. She is loyal to her Kingdom. A Queen is a mother figure to all the children and a role model for aspiring young women." She said as she listed the qualities I knew I lacked when compared to Scarlet's years of training and preparations.
"But most of all she is her husband's wife. His comfort and strength. His advisor in his times of need. She is someone who embraces change and adapts to new surroundings. Her will is unbreakable." She paused for a moment before continuing. "These are the qualities that make a person worthy of being a queen." Aunt Mariah said as Linda served the freshly made snacks prepared by the head chef.
"And these are also the qualities I see in you, Rebekah." Taking my hands into hers she gave it a reassuring squeeze. "I know you will not believe my words right now. But I see great potential in you. Not only as the future Queen but as a person with a kind heart. You may have your doubts and may from time to time compare yourself to your sister. And you may believe that she would have been a better candidate. At one point we would have thought the same. But watching you grow into the fine young woman you are today I have no doubts that you will do great things. So, believe in yourself and your abilities and keep moving forward."
"Always remember that your wealth and status do not define you as a person. Make the choices you know will be for the greater good. Sometimes we are faced with difficult situations that will force us to make sacrifices we wouldn't want to make. Even when it becomes a necessary evil you must not let yourself be consumed by guilt and regret. From the moment you agree to marry my son the path you walk will not be an easy one. You will face many challenges, betrayals, and heartache. Be involved in conspiracies and accused of heinous crimes by those who seek to ruin you. But you must not let the power struggles between nobles sway you from the right path. You may not understand what I mean or know what the future holds but with time you'll see how different life in the palace will be. There will be many difficult days ahead." She said in a serious tone. Releasing my hand from her hold I tried to keep my expression straight. The clock striking 12:00hrs as I took a bite of the strawberry tart Linda had placed before us. I could feel Aunt Mariah's gaze following my every movement.
Conspiracy and accusations?
Power struggles?
Was it that bad to be a part of the Royal family?
"Pardon my interruption lady Rebekah but we must leave for your next appointment with Madame Rosalie and Lady Scarlet. I have received word that they are currently waiting in the indoor garden." Linda said as she returned to my side with her head bowed in respect.
"Forgive my rudeness Aunt Mariah but I must be on my way. Mother and sister are waiting for me." I said as I stood from my seat. Thankful for the chance to leave.
"That is fine my dear. I'm sure you're looking forward to spending some time with your family since you've been busy these past few days. I know this is still a difficult time for you." Aunt Mariah said as I gave her the best smile I could muster up at the moment. I knew she could tell that I was avoiding the topic of today's lesson. My silence speaking for itself.
"Thank you," I said as I curtsied before leaving the room with Linda and my guards following behind.
As the door behind me closed I released a breath of relief. "Linda please Inform my mother and sister that I'm unable to meet with them today. Use whatever excuse you need to convince them that I won't be having lunch with them today. And have my lunch delivered to my room on your way back."
"Yes, malady I will do so immediately." She said before turning around and walking in the direction of the garden.
The guards surrounding me remained silent as I made my way back to my bedroom. I was aware that word of what I was doing would spread like wildfire around the palace but I could not find the need to care about petty gossips.
What I needed right now was to be alone. Aunt Mariah's words had taken me by surprise. Until now I haven't thought of what my life would be like after I become queen. The peaceful experiences I've had in the palace were the only ones I knew. Only visiting for a few days and then leaving. Never staying longer than needed.
How much would change after the coronation?