I

Cogsworth stood on the steps of the castle, eyeing his pocket watch carefully. Each click of the second hand along the ticks of the clock seemed almost silent, but to this head of staff, it was a deafening reminder of the latest employee's tardiness. He scoffed, shoving the small watch back into his vest pocket.

"What a shame," he chortled. "This is what happens when staff are employed without my check."

"Eh bien, eh bien, mon fidèle serviteur."

Cogsworth perked, recognizing the voice behind him. Spinning around quickly, he bowed to the beautiful royalty of which he was employed. She giggled, patting him softly on the head. He stood up, pursing his lips, which in turn furrowed his mustache. Her smile was warm, eyes sparkling with hope and light.

"My loyal servant," she repeated, "is there a problem with the man I had sent for?"

"That ruffian has yet to show, my queen," he gulped, slipping his watch out. "Three-minute past."

"Only three? That hardly seems fair to dismiss him so soon," she offered. "Monsieur Lumière was highly praised and quite appropriate for this position."

"I mean no disrespect, my queen, but I see no need for a Maître de," Cogsworth huffed. "I preform all requirements without assistance."

"You are but one man, Cogsworth," she sighed. "I merely seek to help you in your duties. Monsieur Lumière will help you, I assure you."

"I take your word, my queen," Cogsworth groaned, looking back over the front steps.

"Give him time," she offered, leaving almost as silently as she had arrived.

Cogsworth again checked his watch, scoffing at the continued movement of the second hand. Shaking his head, he looked back up. To his surprise, a man stood directly in front of him, grinning like a mad man. Cogsworth leapt back, stumbling over the top step but managed to remain standing. The other man laughed heartily before offering a short bow.

"Je m'appelle Lumière," he spoke, returning to an upright position. "Enchanté de faire votre connaissance."

"Monsieur Lumière," growled Cogsworth. "You are late!"

"Late?" perked Lumière, looking around. "By what watch?"

"This one!"

He offered Lumière the watch but the other gently declined.

"My apologies," he nodded. "I suppose I simply lost my way. The path leading here was quite something. I got lost in its majesty."

Cogsworth groaned. A romantic, just what he needed. Putting away his watch, he turned toward the front door.

"Come with me, I will show you to your quarters," Cogsworth chuffed.

"Pardon me," Lumière hummed, "Votre nom, monsieur?"

"Ah, yes. Cogsworth."

"Ah, such a name," grinned Lumière. "Appropriate for a man so focused on his pocket watch."

Lumière followed Cogsworth into the castle. The main stairs stretched directly before them, branching up to both east and west wing in a vast, grand staircase. To their right, was a small den with a fireplace, chairs and such. To their left, a hall possibly leading to the kitchen, dining room, and or ballroom. Lumière took in a deep breath, smelling the aroma of fresh baking bread, sweets, and perchance a roast.

"It has been some time since I entered such a delighted place," Lumière spoke fondly.

"Isn't it?"

Cogsworth quickly spun around and bowed, much to Lumière's shock. Slowly moving, he followed his elder's precedent. The wife of their employer, the lovely queen entered from the left hall. Lumière straightened up first, much to Cogsworth's dismay, and kissed the woman's hand.

"Ma reine, je suis heureuse de faire ta connaissance," he whispered softly.

"Monsieur Lumière, I have heard much about you from my sister," she spoke. "I hope you find this place to your liking."

"I am already enchanted and I have only just arrived," he replied. "I cannot await to see the rest."

"Your majesty," Cogsworth interjected. "I hate to interfere but I believe you and the lord are going out tonight?"

"Ah, yes," she blushed. "A simple night out, I was promised, but I doubt we'll be out long. Monsieur, by chance will you be ready to entertain a ball?"

"A ball!"

Cogsworth groaned, seeing Lumière light up more than he had before. The romantic fool kissed the queen's hand once more, nodding. She giggled, waving him away.

"I must be off," she laughed. "Do be sure to speak with Chef Bouche and Mrs. Potts with your plans for tomorrow night."

"Tomorrow night?" Lumière perked.

"A party? So soon?" gasped Cogsworth, pushing pass Lumière. "Are you sure that is wise, my queen?"

"I want to have a party for Adam. He has been sick for so long. I want him to have a good time," she assured. "Good luck, Monsieur."

"There is no need for formality," Lumière replied. "I will do my best."

She walked passed them, ascending the stairs and moving to the west wing. Lumière took in another big breath. Cogsworth let out a deep sigh. The two exchanged looks, expressing completely different emotions.

"She is beautiful," Lumière spoke first.

"Madame Aimèe is truly a fine woman, well fitted for her position," Cogsworth replied, stepping away. "This way to the kitchen."

"I did not think I would get put to work so soon," grinned Lumière, chasing after Cogsworth. "I have not thrown a party in some time. It will be grand to have such an event."

"Don't get too ahead of yourself," scoffed Cogsworth. "Adam is still far too young for such grand events. A simple party among close friends and family is best for this occasion."

Lumière groaned, rolling his eyes, but kept his grin. If anything, this would be a grand experience.