The Revolution (WMMAP reader insert/OC)

Part 22

The pristine, elongated hallway stretched before them, as silent as ever. It was usually devoid of noise, save for the bustling activity when the maids embarked on their cleaning duties. However, this tranquility was abruptly disrupted as the sound of rapid footsteps reverberated through the corridor. Ragged breaths escaped Anatasia's lips as she hurriedly ran, her beloved princess status forgotten in the urgency of the moment. She had completely forgotten about their dance class, although her natural talent as a dancer rendered attendance unnecessary. Yet, it was her duty to be present, especially with the teacher possibly expecting her.

Navigating a sharp left turn, she narrowly avoided colliding with a startled maid. Concern etched on the maid's face, she exclaimed loudly as Anastasia's figure receded into the distance, "Princess! Are you alright? Why are you running?"

The princess called back an apology, her words dissipating into the air as she sprinted away. The maid responded with a lopsided smile, silently acknowledging the unpredictable nature of their spirited princess. Just as Anastasia reached the door to her designated room, her sister Athy emerged from within, appearing unsurprised by her sibling's manic sprint. Ana skidded to a halt, breathless, and blurted out, "Am I late?"

Athy giggled, gesturing towards the empty room. Ana peered inside, searching for the teacher, but found no one in sight. Confusion flickered in her sister's pinkish-tinted eyes, prompting Ana to chuckle. "I made an excuse for you to the teacher, and she bought it. You owe me one."

Ana blinked in surprise, her relief palpable. "Goodness, I owe you for saving me from the teacher."

Athy deadpanned, "Sis, if you haven't noticed, most of our teachers are rather intimidated by you. I don't think our ma'am Pompidou is an exception."

"Oh."

Curiosity piqued, Athanasia turned away while adjusting her dress and asked, "Where have you been anyway?" Ana followed her lead, answering nonchalantly, "I was just taking a leisurely stroll."

"Wooow. Such a vivid and detailed explanation," Athy remarked, her voice dripping with sarcasm, eliciting a snort from her sister.

Ana playfully pressed a finger against her smirking lips. "It's a secret~"

In response, Athy concocted a plan to turn the tables. "Are you sure it's not about hiding a certain knight-in-training whom you might have been with, perhaps engaging in a romantic rendezvous?"

"HUH?!" Ana turned to her sister, her eyes widening and jaw dropping, trying to process the unexpected accusation. "OF COURSE NOT!"

Her sister erupted into laughter, the sound echoing through the corridor. "Oh my gosh, I'm just teasing you, sis. Don't get all worked up."

Ana protested, "I AM NOT! HE AND I ARE JUST CLOSE FRIENDS! DON'T TWIST YOUR WORDS!"

Athy continued to laugh heartily as the two of them made their way towards their respective rooms to change, their cheerful banter filling the air.

In a flurry of youthful excitement, two spirited young girls raced towards a sizeable double-doored room, their infectious giggles echoing through the air. Athy, filled with gentle grace, took the lead and delicately pushed open one of the doors, revealing the hidden treasures that lay beyond. Meanwhile, Ana, brimming with enthusiasm, unintentionally swung the other door wide open, adding an element of surprise to their playful entrance.

Athy, adorned in a dress that exuded simplicity and elegance, seemed to embody a vibrant charm. The flowing fabric embraced a striking color palette of red, adorned with white stripes arranged in a tastefully simple pattern. Delicate frillies graced the sleeves, imbuing the ensemble with a touch of whimsy. Her hair was meticulously gathered into a ponytail, secured with a bow that mirrored the playful pattern of her dress, completing her enchanting look.