As Emperor Xander stepped into the grand hall, the room fell into a reverent hush. Every lady stilled mid-bite, wide-eyed and breathless, uncertain of his purpose. It was almost amusing.
"Ladies, hold your horses," Xander said with a half-smile, his voice smooth with amusement. "I come in peace."
A wave of laughter rippled through the hall. The ladies exhaled, relieved, while Lola approached him with a curious tilt of her head.
"Don't frighten us like that again," she said softly, though a small smile tugged at her lips.
"Agreed," he replied, his gaze briefly lingering on her before sweeping over the gathered women. "It warms me to see you all... joyful. And hungry," he added, noting the overflowing table with a smirk.
A few ladies chuckled, some bashfully lowering their gazes.
"I heard of the charitable deeds performed today. Truly, you have done this kingdom proud," Xander continued, his tone shifting to one of sincerity. "If ever you are in need of anything, do not hesitate to ask. I shall see it done."
"Thank you, Your Majesty," came the chorus of gratitude as they all bowed in unison.
He turned back to Lola. "With all said, I'd like a moment alone with Lady Cavendish."
"Oooh," one lady teased. "You may have her as you please!"
Blush rose to Lola's cheeks before she could suppress it. Xander's smile deepened, but he said nothing as he offered his arm. She accepted it wordlessly, allowing him to lead her away amidst soft laughter and knowing glances.
"They will make a fine couple," a noblewoman murmured behind them.
"They already do," Lady Alethea replied, nodding in quiet approval.
They stopped just beyond the colonnade, where the hush of the courtyard replaced the din of the dining hall. A breeze danced around them, tugging gently at the folds of Lola's gown.
"Well?" she asked. "What was so urgent that you pulled me aside?"
Xander looked at her for a long moment before speaking.
"I've decided..." He exhaled slowly, as though reluctant to give voice to the words. "I will release you. You and your companions. At the end of next month, you will be free to leave Aldovia and return to your lives. I will not keep you here any longer."
There was a beat of silence. Lola blinked, stunned. This was the very thing she had longed for, and yet...
"Oh." The word slipped from her lips almost inaudibly.
"You are not pleased?" he asked, his brow furrowing slightly.
"Happy?" she echoed, forcing a brittle laugh. "Yes, of course. It's what I've always wanted, is it not?" She turned quickly, eyes too bright, her smile too wide. "I should tell the others the good news."
He watched her retreat, her steps brisk, almost too brisk. There was a stiffness to her spine, an ache in her voice she tried to disguise. But Xander said nothing. He only stood there, unmoving, watching her slip away like something he was no longer allowed to hold.
Perhaps her heart had never truly been here.
Perhaps he had been a fool to hope.