Shadowing the Queen

Elise broke into a run and stopped at his side, looking down in awe at her kingdom; she’d never realized that you could look down on it from that hill. But, never-the-less, they had, indeed, arrived.

“What am I wearing?” Elise suddenly felt a pang of embarrassment when she looked down to examine herself; torn shoes, muddy trousers, a torn shirt, and her hair was blowing around messily.

“You’re wearing my clothes.” Brynn commented, sounding offended. “Is there an issue?”

“Yes.” Elise sighed. “My mother.”

“That’s your biggest worry?” Hardy laughed, “You’re joking.”

But she wasn’t.

“Presenting Princess Elise and her companions.” The guard, Henry, announced to the throne room before stepping aside.

Elise walked towards her parents, both of whom were standing up. When they first saw her, she saw relief in their eyes, and then very quickly she saw that relief turn to horror in her mother.

The other three stood like body guards; Tabor was standing to her right and Hardy to her left, while Brynn stood behind her. When they stopped in front of the thrones, the other three dropped to their knees; bowing.

“Elise…” Her mother gasped, “What on earth happened to you?” She gathered up her dress and made her way to her daughter, caressing the small cuts on her face.

“I was escorted home?” Elise explained, weakly.

Queen Gretel nodded; looking confused and then looked back at Elise’s father, who gestured for her to sit down. She obeyed.

“Tabor Schmidt, rise.” The King ordered, and Tabor rose to his feet. “Did you run into trouble?”

“Yes, sire.” Tabor nodded curtly. “There was a man when we first arrived who had grabbed her, but he was killed.”

The King nodded thoughtfully. “And Henrietta?” Tabor narrowed his eyebrows in confusion. “Her maid, boy!” Tabor shook his head vaguely before looking over at Elise. “Elise? Where is she?”

“She, um,” Elise stuttered, trying to remember the way Brynn had put it. “She either got away or she’s dead.”

Her father stared at her, his expression unreadable. “Go get washed up, and prepare to dine. Get these three out of my sight.” He turned away.

“They dine with us.”

King Hans turned to glare at her, “That is not custom.”

“They saved my life.” Elise countered, “And gave up their clothes and food for me. I believe we can reward them with at least a decent meal.” She and her father glared at one another for a long moment.

“She has a point, Hans.” Gretel told him in a hushed voice.

The King sighed, “Very well. Rise.” Hardy and Brynn rose to their feet. “All of you get ready to dine.” Then he dismissed them with a wave.

The four bowed and exited the chambers.

“That was very kind of you, Princess.” Brynn said. “But I do not own a dress. So, I’m afraid I cannot join you.”

“Nonsense.” Elise smiled, feeling at ease. “You will all go to our Clothier!” Hardy and Brynn looked at each other uneasily. “You’ve already been invited.” Elise insisted, feeling disappointment creep in.

Tabor smiled, “We’ll be there.”

“Elise!” A small voice cried and she turned to see a strawberry blonde running towards her. The little girl wore a much too large pink dress and little, black flats. She was tripping over both.