Threads Become Chains

New Encounters

AN: Warning there is slight SA (Nothing major *spoilers* only like invading personal bubble of space and an almost forced kiss)

Two weeks had passed since Minnie arrived at the castle. Two weeks closer to her inescapable fate. Her routine was simple, wake up, get ready for the day, learn how to be a proper lady of society, eat and have the evenings to herself. A simple routine but did things differently each day.

Having different and insufferable tutors for etiquette, dancing, royal history and what's going on in high society now, etc. Made her feelings of inferiority grow. However both Daisy and Ortensia made a challenge of making her laugh at the worst times. Mocking certain things about every tutor or just being hilarious in general.

It was difficult but Minnie mastered the art of the blank stare, releasing her laughter later when the three were along. Yes she did remember to retain such things but having a bit of fun made it easier to remember.

But that wasn't all she learned. Daisy was actually working to become a Lady Royal when the late king was seated upon the throne. While studying just like Minnie was currently, also worked with a few solders on how to properly swordfight. In fact she could've fought in the war.

"Why did you stay behind?" Minnie asked one night as Daisy glanced up at Ortensia putting firewood in the suite's fireplace.

"If I did, Ortensia would be alone. She hardly has anyone else who can understand her like I do....until now." Daisy whispered with a smile. Minnie nodded understanding what she meant and smiling back at her remark.

"If I may ask, how did she-..er...." It wasn't the most tactful way to ask but Daisy didn't seem to mind.

"She was born without speech. We met at an all girls private school. Ortensia was being bullied, I didn't like that and made sure she wasn't picked on ever again. In a way she's like my sister. No I would go far as to say she is."

"I promise you, I will help protect Ortensia as well. I've grown fond of my friend...both my friends." Minnie winked giggling as Daisy followed suit. Ortensia looked at them with a confused smile upon hearing them laugh.

"Oh it's nothing, Minnie was just saying how much she cannot wait to be queen and rule over all us." Daisy joked earning a playful nudge on her shoulder from Minnie.

"Whatever you trickster!" Then as if they were six years old, they began a short game of pillow fighting. Ortensia following in suit as feathers soon filled the air and they all laid upon Minnie's bed in laughter. During the night as they all slept to the sound of Minnie reading 'Romeo and Juliet' She had an idea that might help Ortensia.

One day Minnie returned from the library, the biggest one she ever had seen, carrying a few books. Yet tucking the titles beneath her arm so no one could see. Once alone with the two of them, revealed their contents making Ortensia gasp in delight.

"Would it be alright if we learned together?" Minnie smiled as Daisy looked at Ortensia who stared at her.

"It's up to you sweetie. Whatever you want to do, I'm on your side." The answer came at no surprise. Ortensia surprised Minnie with a tight hug full of happiness. Mouthing thank you over and over and in sign. Since later that night they memorized the entire alphabet and the basic phrases in sign language.

On the eve of the third weeks first, almost complete, day Daisy came back to Minnie's suite with a grave expression. Saddened that she interrupted Minnie signing a story to Ortensia whom had watched and took in everything so intensely.

"Minnie...it's Mortimer." The room fell completely silent, not even a single sign spoken.

"What is it?" Minnie asked finally breaking the tension. Book marking the page before setting it down. Standing up with hands on her hips.