To the Head Butler and other palace personnel, Arabella was just a new Empress who barely knew anything about the Empire yet. Except for her maids who were directly under her, Arabella's words have no power over them.
Moreover, they were not yet sure if they could trust her words or rely on her.
They knew Ferdinand cherished her since he slept in her room for a month and always visited her chambers every time he returned from the borders.
Thus, they would obey her to some degree. They would obey whatever she said as long as it was something minor.
But if she asked them to do something of great importance, they would not obey her immediately and ask for Raymond or Ferdinand's approval first.
Thus, if it was just her saying things, they would likely tell her to wait until Ferdinand or Raymond approves.
Arabella needed achievements and allies in order to be trusted and obeyed as the Empress.
