Learn to do it

Sorry about the long wait guys. Hope this makes up for it. Anyway, as a heads up, this chapter will have another song.

Learn to do it

By:

Anastasia, Dimitri, and Vlad

From:

Disney's Anastasia

No I will not make a habit of including songs. If you want me to, I will. But for now lets just see how well this works out.

Here's a link for Lydia's dress. Just get rid of parentheses and spaces. (http:) (/) (/) thumbs3.) (ebaystatic.) (com/d/l225/m/) (m7J4n5DQSz2Q) (uxv2wPyRU9g.) (jpg) The color and skirt design will change.

...

Friday came and went with little hassle. Morning greeted Saturday with the most beautiful sunrise.

Healing chemicals were poured meticulously into a plaster brown bowl. Herbs and powder were added, giving the concoction a powerful - and eye watering - potency. It smelt similar to...alcohol. Sofia remarked Dr. Merr used a similar brew to tend to Amber's fever when she was sick. It's meant to seep into the skin and attack whatever is bothering the body.

"Ugh...this is becoming tedious!" Lydia grumbled, leaning on an elbow. The female physician, Alauna, gently glided a pad she dipped in the alcohol dipped along her arm. Lydia was sort of soothed by the icy hot sensation disinfecting the flesh. And a pleasant tingle massaged the pained muscles. "What is this? Visit number six?"

Sofia laughed. While Lydia was able to wear a straight face, her flare ups were funny. Sofia honestly couldn't remember the last time Lydia got so hot under the collar. "I know it stinks." Sofia rested a hand to Lydia's knee, "But just think," She beamed that adorable smile, "If you keep this up, your arm will heal faster."

Lydia smiled, shaking her head. Sofia was always a "glass half full" kind of girl. Lydia loved that. She ruffled Sofia's hair, "You always did know how to draw a silver line."

Sofia cupped her hands and batted her eyes adorably, "Isn't that why you love me?" She and Lydia burst into laughter.

Beside the physician, soaking in a vat of medicine, were several sharp acupuncture needles. They were needles specially designed for the particular injury Lydia was carrying. The amount of treatment was over the top, but necessary if she wanted her arm to heal.

When injected into the skin, the medicine the acupuncture needles carried flows through the muscle, fusing with it, and augmenting the healing process. As per previous treatment, a cream will be applied, complemented by bandages dipped in medicine. Magically induced injuries guaranteed to heal or your money back.

Slender gloved fingers crept to the infirmary door sill. Beady black eyes peered round the corner. Once it was certain the princesses and Alauna were distracted, Cedric slithered halfway into the room. He cast a vengeful grin at Lydia, savoring the radiating wound to her pride. Reaching into his sleeve, Cedric revealed a bright orange, red design lotus. Whispering softly to the petals he blew on them. One at a time they plucked free of the base, riding a current and descending into the bowl of soaking needles. Within seconds the petals dissolved. The water fizzled for a moment, shading orange then black, and soon calmed its original state. Cedric pumped a fist with victory then took his leave.

Alauna moved the bowl of soaking needles closer to Lydia's side. The sight of the half foot long needles made Lydia subconsciously flinch. Her dry throat swallowed a lump that hit her stomach like a bomb. Sofia touched her knee warmly, smiling sympathetically, "Still afraid of needles?"

Lydia laughed bashfully. "Is it that obvious?" She could not begin to describe how foolish she felt. And in front of Sofia. Why didn't she conquer her needle phobia seven years ago? "Don't worry." Sofia took her hand, "I'll be right by your side."

Lydia was overcome with love. "Thanks, Sofie."

...

Cedric's brow shot up excitedly. A supreme EUREKA moment making his smile beam. The ear he had pressed to the wall tingled so pleasantly he was tempted to sing. "Little Miss Sorceress is afraid of needles?" He pranced in place, stifling the overwhelming urge to squeal. "I shall have to use that at a later time."

...

After several crucial, careful, PAINFUL HOURS - what was actually 30 minutes. Give or take five minutes - of needles sinking deep within the scarred muscle, Alauna allowed the needles to settle, giving the medicine time to work its way. Lydia's arm was resting on an elevated table. Her entire arm was becoming heavy, numb. A side effect was paralysis in the arm. How lucky she was that the numbness didn't assuage topical pain. I thank sarcastically! Her skin was burning mercilessly. Alauna quickly applied the bandages. Delightful chills pacified the burning. If it weren't professionally unbecoming, Lydia would kiss Alauna.

Once her arm was put in the sling, Lydia thanked Alauna, and she and Sofia moseyed along, talking a bit about whatever was on their mind. They laughed about old times, reminisced about their biological father, gasped in awe of how mind boggling the castle was. The two were having so much fun Lydia almost forgot about her previous engagement. She needed to head to the North Library to meet Roland, Baileywick, and Miles.

Lydia repeatedly obsessed with the sling. She wasn't to fond of the sling. It was a little uncomfortable. Sort of heavy. Like carrying a dumbbell. But after a couple minutes Lydia hardly noticed it. When it started itching she wished to incinerate it. What she did notice was the returning with a vengeance burning. Her elbow joint throbbed as well.

"Ugh…" Lydia massaged her shoulder. The pain shot to her neck, then back to her elbow.

Sofia stopped. Her big blue eyes were wide with worry. "You okay?"

"Ugh. I'm fine. Just a little pain."

"Are you sure? Maybe we should take you back to Miss Alauna."

Lydia giggled, charmed by Sofia's concern. "Stop worrying. I'm fine. Pains like this come and go. I'll live."

"You promise?"

Lydia raised her left hand, and held her right hand over her heart. "Cross my heart to never lie," She erected a pinkie, "Bite my pinkie till I cry." Sofia gasped, cupping her heart. That was a special promise they invented so many years ago. Normally the arms would be vice versa. No use splitting hairs. Not when Lydia was injured. For whenever Lydia would go off to school. Lydia had to swear to write once a month about everything happening. Sofia thought Lydia forgot.

Sofia wrapped her pinkie to Lydia's. They shook, kissed their thumbs, and the pact was sealed. "Okay." Sofia let the matter go with a heavy heart. When she heard a bell suddenly toll, she was startled. "I have to go! I promised The Fairies I'd help them set up the art room today!"

"Alright. I'll see you when you get back. Tell Fauna Eezeyal loved the kiwi's she sent him."

"I will." Sofia waved to Lydia who waved back until she disappeared around a corner. A somber sigh saddened the little princess. Lydia always asked Sofia to not worry, but it only made her worry more. Especially since Lydia has kept secrets before. Lydia always worries about others. She needed to let others worry about her. Let down her shield. "Lydia…"

Someone clicked their tongue disapprovingly. "Poor girl." Sofia whirled around. Cedric towered beside her, staring mournfully where Lydia vanished. "The pain she must be enduring." "Well, remaining optimistic is all she can really do at this point. '

Sofia nodded. "Yeah. I'm happy this isn't getting g her down."

Cedric let out a quick breath and bowed his head. "A real shame though. That smile nothing more than a display to ease the worries."

Sofia's heart skipped a beat. "W...what do you mean? Is Lydia going to be alright, Mr. Ceedric?

Cedric was so pleased with himself he allowed the mispronunciation of his name to slide. "Oh dear. I've said too much." He feigned despair. He edged Sofia along, "Please, Princess Sofia, ignore the blatherings of this old sorcerer. It'll pain me if you start to worry as well." Laying it on thick, but so long as it works...

"Worry about what?!" Sofia twisted from his hands. She glued her pleading blue eyes to Cedric, "Please. Mr. Ceedric! Tell me! Is it...is it about Lydia's arm?"

Cedric played nervously biting on his lip really to restrain the victorious grin. He sighed sadly, "I really can't say for certain. I'm not a doctor."

"But you're a sorcerer! Hasn't your arm ever been injured like hers?"

"Oh yeah, loads of times! So many times I lost count. But I never developed sharp pain in the elbow." He slyly added.

"Is that bad?"

"I'm afraid so. You see," He took a deep breath then exhaled. Unsheathing his wand, he circled the tip over his palm. Green smoke spanned to a square, producing a Lydia in a scenario "The sudden flash of pain is only step one." The false Lydia cringed, cradling her pained arm. "Soon her entire arm will go numb." She prodded and smacked it, unable to feel a thing. "The arm itself will fall limp after that." It fell like a log out of the sling. She couldn't move it. "And...when an arm is limp for a long period of time...well…"

"WELL WHAT?" Sofia tugged desperately at his robe. "PLEASE TELL ME!"

Cedric knelt down, tenderly petting her head. "A lifeless arm can cause disease...and...in worse cases." A lily sprouted from the wand's tip.

"No!" Sofia cried, getting the message.

"And in order to prevent that Lydia's arm will have to be...removed."

"Removed?" Sofia was scared to ask. Cedric motioned his wand. A chopping block and ax popped in on the picture. An executioner blindfolded Lydia. "NO!" The picture went poof. Cedric needn't show her anymore. "THERE HAS TO BE SOME WAY TO HELP HER!

"I'm not sure there is. I can look up the symptoms and hopefully be led to a cure. A'course assuming this worst case scenario is what's wrong with Lydia. I mean, none of us can be sure."

"I KNOW! I'll go ask the fairies! They'll know!"

"A grand idea." Cedric rushed off, "I'll be in my workshop looking for a cure, just in case."

'Thank you so much, Mr. Ceedric!" Sofia lifted her dress and ran as fast as her little heels would carry her.

"My pleasure, Princess Sofia. My pleasure." He purred, a diabolical grin splitting his face in half.

…

"Sorry I'm late." Lydia chimed, walking into the library.

Roland, Miles, and Baileywick greeted her with warm smiles. "Not a problem. How did the visit go?" Roland asked, holding out hope she'll make a speedy recovery.

"Alauna thinks I'll be good as new in five days. So long as I follow the regime to the letter."

Constable Miles arched a suspicious brow, "As you have done, yes? No magic? No potions?"

Lydia crossed her heart, "I haven't even held my wand. Eezeyal's making sure of that."

…

Eezeyal checked the slot behind the bar suspending the curtains. Lydia's wand was perfectly safe. "Ain't no way tha' gurl is touchin this here magicky stick!" He flew to a bowl of kiwis on Lydia's work desk. "Now for mah snack." He bent forward. The bowl whisked from under him. His beak touching the desk. "Hey!" He snarled. "Hey!"

Clover tossed a kiwi, swallowing it whole. "HO man! That's good." He licked his lips.

Eezeyal ruffled his feathers, spreading his wings. "Tha's mine, furball!"

"Mine now, feather duster!" Clover stuck his tongue out, grabbed the bowl and ran out the door.

"GET BACK HERE, YA THIEV'N, GLUTTONOUS RAT!" Clover and Eezeyal burst into the hall. A servant girl spun, almost dropping cleaned towels.

…

"You and that owl have a strange relationship." Baileywick commented. "I hear you talking to him as if he can understand you."

"Because he can." She admitted giddily. Baileywick, Roland, and Miles were bewildered.

Sofia made it clear she was keeping the powers of her amulet a secret. Roland knows it's enchanted, but obviously isn't aware of the power it's given Sofia. Cedric...seemed aware it gives her powers. He just didn't seem to know she could speak with animals. Lydia, on the other hand, didn't care if people knew she could talk to animals. She just preferred only a small number knew. Her family was that small few. But, for now, she would play dumb.

Lydia touched her earrings. "Eezeyal and I formed a strong bond. He listens to me and I him." She giggled impishly, "And believe me it took a lot of hard work to develop that bond. But he needed me. So I wasn't going to give up on him."

Miles bowed his head in approval. "Very admirable. That's a sure sign you'll be a just ruler." Lydia blushed. "But being determined is only one percent. A true leader must be kind and fair, firm and just. They must also make difficult decisions. Be able to be unbiased and non prejudicial. And, above all, do things they do not wish to do." Lydia nervously glanced to Roland. He nodded solemnly. Lydia wondered if she could live up to those expectations. "Also, a true ruler must present themselves in a professional manner. Physically and Verbally. Appearance and word choice is everything. How you present yourself represents your kingdom, and how you speak represents your predecessors."

In other words her mere presence can either make or break Roland and Enchancia's reputations. Lydia sank into herself, sighing in imminent defeat. "No pressure or anything."

Baileywick cleared his throat, gaining her attention. "A good ruler must also have knowledge of their kingdom." He set a large stack of rolled up parchment on a table. He pointed to each one, "Current state of affairs, the layout, it's allies and enemies, the state of neighboring towns within the kingdom limit, politics, and any and all other obligations that demand the utmost attention."

Lydia was intrigued so she unrolled the top parchment. "Whoa…" She laid it out flat. It was a map covered with small notations. Green, yellow, and red markings dazzled the bland lines that seemed to go all over the page. "Are these trade routes?"

Roland leaned over. "Actually they are plans for new roads to be paved for swifter and simpler travel between the towns." Pressure built in Lydia's head. "Green means the road is complete. Yellow means it is in progress. Red means it has yet to be started."

"What about these?" She pointed to scribbles.

"Dates they were started and finished. The rest are predictions or when workers plan to begin construction."

"And here?"

"Bridges, parks, and many other assignments."

Lydia was feeling dizzy. "You really keep track of all of this?" She asked, feeling bad for Roland.

"On top of communicating with neighboring kingdoms, and many other duties." All of this was making Lydia's arm throb. Badly. "Are you alright?"

"No worries. My arm just hurts a little." She took off the sling, not feeling the need to keep it on. Alauna said she only needed to keep it on for an hour. It's been an hour and five minutes. That's long enough. She wiggled her fingers, flexed the arm, juggled the elbow. It was good. It still hurt, but she was okay. Returning to the lecture, the pain in her shoulder was numbed by the growing migraine. "Ugh…" She sat down, "This is a lot to absorb. How do you do it?"

Roland sat beside her, resting a hand to her shoulder, "One step at a time. Trust me, it's difficult at first. But if I can do it," He nipped her cheek with a thumb, "So can you."

"No offense, dad, but my genius ends at magic. This whole royal stuff…" She shook her head, "I'll need another seven years."

"Not to worry." Baileywick spun her around. A piece of paper unrolled. A ridiculously long lesson plan stopped at the ground near her feet. "As you can see, I've included your magic lessons and incorporated your royal duties." Lydia took a closer look. "Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays are for Magic. Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays are for Royal obligations. Sundays and major holidays, occasions, and events are for you to use as you please. But at the end of each month you will receive a test. You won't receive a test this month, but you will next month."

Last Lydia checked, today was Saturday. She sighed dismally. This was going to be a long day. She massaged her throbbing head. "It is Saturday. No better time than the present. However, I'm not even sure where to start."

"How did you begin your first year of sorcery school?" Miles quizzed.

Lydia shrugged. "They gave us a syllabus, I guess. A brief summary of lesson plans."

Roland took her by the hand and helped her to her feet. "Then consider this your syllabus." He guided her to the window. "Enchancia's a land that was borne nearby the sea." He sang, gliding a hand over the scenery.

"Borne nearby the sea?" She beamed at the harbor. Crystal blue waters twinkled in her eyes. "Oh I see."

Roland hugged one hand to her shoulder. "Yes, that's right."

Baileywick guided her around to a photo of nobles riding horses, "You must learn to ride a horse from hours one to three."

Lydia doubted that one. "Ride a horse? Me?"

"No need to worry. Amber fell her first time too." Lydia felt a little better.

Miles drew his sword, "And of course...self defense," He flourished the blade,"I shall teach you how to fence."

Lydia froze when the tip touched her neck. "I-is fencing necessary?"

Roland pushed the blade aside, "You mother's learning it." Lydia blinked blankly.

A chair hit the back of her legs, catching her, then spun her to Baileywick. "You must not scoff, snort, or make terrorizing looks! Patience must not be shook!"

"How do I do that?"

"Here's a book."

Roland twirled her out of the chair, wrapping his arm to hers, "Always be polite no matter the hateful words or looks." The three men glared. Lydia shrank uncomfortably.

Miles lifted her arm, "You must study hard."

Baileywick lifted the other arm, "Traditions new and past."

Roland pushed behind her as the three men joined in, "We've lots and lots to teach you and the time is going fast!"

...

Lydia was guided to the garden, helped onto the ledge of a long rectangular fountain. "Alright...I'm ready!"

Cedric poked out from behind a bush. Baileywick unsheathed a ruler, tapped it twice to his palm, the touched it to Lydia. "Now shoulders back and stand up tall." He tilted her chin.

Roland set three books on her head, "And do not walk, but try to float." He lead by example.

"I feel a little foolish. Am I floating?" Her foot lost ground for a second.

Roland put her back on balance, "Like a little boat!" He chuckled.

Baileywick's ruler pressed on the books. "A curtsey now."

"What happens now?"

Cedric emerged out of nowhere from round the fountain. "Your hand receives a kiss." He smirked and pecked her hand. Lydia growled, blushing madly.

Roland and Baileywick laughed nervously, diverting her attention, "Most of all remember this…"

Miles joined her on the ledge, placed the books to his head, and began walking backwards. "If I can learn to do it, you can learn to do it."

Roland rested a palm under hers, guiding her gingerly, "Deep inside you know it."

Cedric and Baileywick stood back to back, "There's nothing to it!"

"Follow in my footsteps, shoe by shoe!"

All four men led her to a wooden gate, "You can learn to do it too!"

...

Lydia was seated at the banquet table. Empty bowls and glasses prepared around her. Shining silverware arranged in a specific manner. A towel to her lap, her chair pushed in. The tap of a ruler made her jump. Baileywick appeared out of nowhere. Once again he guided her movements with the ruler. "Now elbows in and sit up straight. At Royal feasts, please greet the guests."

Lydia curtsied to Roland and Miles,"I am honored you could join us, Lords." She replied haughtily.

Miles applauded, "A voice and smile of harmonic chords."

Roland set a plate. "The Samovar."

Baileywick added, "The caviar."

"Dessert and then goodnight?" Lydia hoped.

The three men moved in grimly, "Not until you get this right!" Roland snapped his fingers. Lydia, confused, was in her room standing on a stool.

"If I can learn to do it," Baileywick clapped twice. A divider dropped.

"You can learn to do it!" Roland snapped his fingers. Servants swarmed Lydia.

"Pull yourself together!" Miles pushed the wall out of the way.

Baileywick and Roland gestured to Lydia proudly, "And you'll pull through it!" She was in awe of her sapphire and silver dress.

Roland led her by the hand to the mirror, "Tell yourself it's easy."

Miles and Baileywick opened the three sided mirror, "And it's true!" Lydia was so star struck by how lovely the dress looked she twirled.

Roland towered behind her, raising a tiara, "You can learn to do it tooo...!" He gently placed the Tiara. She was finished with wardrobe anyway.

"Wow!" She twisted, letting the skirt flurry. "This is amazing!"

"It is…" Roland smiled warmly. The smile faded when he noticed the headband sort of clashed with the royal aesthetic. "Maybe it would look better if you removed your headband."

Lydia lost color in her cheeks. Roland was slightly stunned by the fear that briefly lit her eyes. "Uhh...N-no." She removed the tiara. "That's okay. Tiara's were never really my thing anyway." She handed it to one of the servants and she returned it to the closet. Baileywick and Miles were perplexed by the display. "Don't get me wrong," She rubbed the headband, "The headband does clash. But...wearing a tiara-"

"Actually…" Baileywick's fingers shaped like a frame, envisioning a particular accessory for Lydia. She was missing something. "Give me a moment. I know what you need."

...

Professor Popov and Sir Gilliam set a thinker statue over in the corner nearest the garden facing window. Merryweather guided curtains, clipping the green silk and admiring the brown stencil near the floor. Zandar and Jin helped bring in chairs, while Leana and Mae made sure the easels were arranged by artistic space. Quite a bit of room so the students didn't feel enclosed. James and Hugo, miraculously, finished polishing the walls, baseboards, and certain areas of the floor. Constant bickering hindered their work. That is until Madam Trunchbull threatened to hang them by the pinkies over a pit of...stewed broccoli broth.

Meanwhile Sofia adamantly pulled the fairies aside, asking them about Lydia's arm. Just as before, the fairies were confident in Lydia's future recovery. That confidence faded slightly. They were quite disturbed by what Sofia was told. Not that they were going to lie and say amputation wasn't possible. Especially when the grim picture was depicted. But the likelihood of Lydia losing hers was astronomical.

"Lydia said her arm was hurting! Are you sure?" Flora pressed her fingertips to Sofia's lips. The young princess heeded the hint and calmed down.

"Her arm is going to bother her." Flora assured Sofia, smiling so not to agitate her clearly flaring worry. "But if she is following the healing requirements the pain will subside and she will be casting spells effortlessly once again."

"Cedric did not tell you this to worry you, dear." Fauna comforted the young girl. "He was just probably worried for Lydia. But being so prideful, he wanted you to confer with us on the matter."

Sofia thought that made sense. Cedric doesn't take kindly to asking for help. From anyone. He was genuinely concerned about Lydia. "Thank you, Miss Fauna. Miss Flora. Miss Merryweather. I don't know what I was thinking."

"You're being a good sister." Merryweather commended her. "Lydia told us about how you and she look after one another. Something the three of us can relate to."

"Yes…" Flora drew her sisters into a warm hug, "There is nothing more powerful than a bond between family."

Sofia remembered the promise Lydia shared with her. It made her heart flutter to the clouds. Lydia's going to be fine. I can't wait to tell Mr. Ceedric.

...

Tall rustling grass echoed with impish laughter. Clover parted the blades, scanning the area, making sure the coast was clear.

"And the feather duster is ditched!" He sat against a tree. Reaching around, a bowl of kiwis was nestled to his stomach, just begging him to devour them. "Oh my delicious beauties..." He snuggled a fruit to his fluffy cheek, "You and I are going to be well acquainted." He leaned back, tucked a paw behind his head, tossed the kiwi and waited with his mouth ajar. A breeze washed over him. "Huh?" He poked an eye open. The fruit was gone. Clover hummed as he looked around. Maybe it missed and rolled away. Clover blew it off and tossed another. Same result. "WHAT THE HECK, MAN?" The kiwi disappeared again. There was no way he missed twice. This time he kept his eyes open. He tossed a kiwi. It landed perfectly in his mouth. An explosion of flavor coated his tongue. "Ho-oh man! That's delicious!" He reached for another. Grass blades met the paw. "OKAY! WHAT?!" Now the whole bowl was gone. Clover growled rabidly. "ALRIGHT!" He picked up a rock, "Who's the wise animal that keeps stealing my snack?"

"Yew mean MY snack!" Clover gasped. Eezeyal was perched over head, balancing the bowl on the branch with his talons. Mia and Robin were on either side of him. Clover couldn't believe it. "Much obliged, Ladies. Have some fruit."

"YAY!" Mia dug right in.

"TRAITORS!" Clover barked.

"There's an old saying, Clover." Robin grinned mockingly, "Ask and you shall receive." She taunted Clover by putting a kiwi in her mouth. She shuddered blissfully. Eezeyal stood up straight with pride, daring the bunny to beg.

Clover so uttered, angrily tripping over insults that weren't forming. He yanked on his ears then turned his back. Paws folded in protest to asking that Owl for a hand out. Then something cold touched his back. It was the bowl of kiwis. Eezeyal was offering them to him. Clover was flabbergasted beyond words.

"Liddy taught me a great deal. One is to always show kindness to those who need it, even if they don't deserve it." He slyly added the last part as a stern hint.

Clover dropped his head, fiddling with his paws bashfully. "Thanks, Eez. Really."

Eezeyal threw him a kiwi. "Eat up. I gotta get back to mah girl soon."

...

A woven Elvin tiara, complemented by a tear shaped ruby was placed to Lydia's forehead. Her neatly long bangs hung over it, displaying the centerpiece jewel perfectly. Added was a black neckband. A ruby red pendant shaped like an owl amazed her. "Baileywick these are perfect!" She gasped. "How-"

"Trust me. Compared to Amber, you are a walk in the park to make over." Lydia giggled. She could imagine Amber being a pain to dress.

Speaking of which, Amber strolled into Lydia's room curious of the never ending traffic of servants. When she saw Lydia her jaw hit the floor. "LYDIA! YOU LOOK AMAZING!" She ran over, circling Lydia like a hawk. "Admittedly I still reign champion as the prettiest princess in all of Enchancia. But you are a solid second!" Lydia hasn't lived with Amber for too long. She was still unsure if Amber's insults are her way of giving compliments or if her compliments were insults. With the way Amber fawning over the dress, it was a safe bet she was complimented. Lydia swore she was drooling. "The velvet feel, the way the silver glistens, the way your eyes and headband match your accessories - AH! You look just like a Queen!"

"I guess that settles it. This'll be my gown."

"Not your everyday one, I hope!" Amber protested.

"Why not? Should I pick a different one?"

"No-no!" She grabbed Lydia's previous uniform and threw it to her. "You should stick with the uniform. It gives off a certain Authoritative Flare."

Lydia smiled doubtfully, "I have authority?"

"You do!" Amber stamped.

"Okay…" Lydia hummed, not sure how to respond, "

"Because, Lydia, in regards to your persona," Amber shaped her hands perspective to Lydia's figure, "This garb should only be worn during balls, hosting Royal/Noble guests, or whenever situations deem it necessary. Allow other royals to see how far you've come." Lydia found herself becoming oddly inspired. "Until then you should simply wear this. It's professional, it's stylish, but most of all it's you. Let the people of Enchancia see the sorceress and the princess."

"She has a point, Your Majesty." Baileywick agreed. "Even you have a uniform for special occasions."

"Alright." Roland gave in. He smiled warmly to Lydia. He had to admit that they were right. The uniform suited Lydia better. "Go ahead and get changed. We'll continue your lessons after we've had lunch."

"Okay." Lydia went to remove the neckband. When she touched the clasp she froze. Dismay filled her eyes.

"Lydia?" Amber raised a brow. Lydia brought her right hand around. She gazed upon it as if a black spot tarnished the skin. She curled and uncurled the fingers, pressed the nail of her thumb to the fingertips until the skin indented. Lydia's dismay graduated to fear. "Lydia, what's wrong?"

Lydia's fingers trembled. The muscles tingled wildly until nothing was felt. "I can't feel my arm."

...

"Oh man am I stuffed!" Clover stretched out his paws. He waddled his bloated stomach to the base of the castle. "Those were some good kiwis. Thanks again!"

"Not a problem." Eezeyal burped overhead. "I'll see if Liddy can't squeeze more outta Fauny."

Clover shoved a rock over, revealing a tunnel he, Mia, and Robin made for whenever the castle windows were closed. He dug in, twisting to get inside. The hole hugged his bloated waist. "Umm...hey. Little help here, feathers?"

Eezeyal rolled his eyes, shaking his head. "Maybe you shouldn't have taken the last five kiwis."

"They were too good, man." Eezeyal gave Clover two hard pushes. Clover flew in. There was a loud crash followed by a puff of dust. "Thanks…"

"Not a problem."

Clover and Eezeyal scurried up the inner walls, ducking in and out of cobwebs, narrow crevices, and weaving around what looked like dead bugs. Clover pushed a small hatch open. The tunnel led the two to Roland and Miranda's room. Clover often snuck in there to see if Roland forgot leftovers on his work space again. No such luck today. Maybe later. It is almost lunch time.

"Let's get out of here before Stuff Shirt Baileywick comes hollering." Clover shivered. "That man is fast for an old guy."

"I couldn't agree more. Four eyes has chased me around many a time." Eezeyal flew to the headboard of the Master Bed. He hadn't visited Roland and Miranda's room in a while. He was curious as to how much different their belongings were compared to the children's. "Why is it always the parents who get the better beds? Huh?" A piece of fancy looking parchment caught Eezeyal's eye. "What's this?" He perched on the unraveled page.

"Oh that. That's just another one of Roland's nightly readings." Clover shrugged off. "He always reads letters from other kingdoms in order to fall asleep." Eezeyal's little head swung rapidly left to right. Clover saw his beady little eyes rolling over the page. "Wait a sec! Can you read?"

"To my great regret…" He mumbled somberly. His curling talons almost tore the parchment.

"Why's that?" Clover asked, concerned by the dark tone Eezeyal hissed.

"Because King Roland is about to be on the receiving end of Lydia's well kept rage."

...

Alauna rushed to Lydia's room the moment she heard what was happening. Lydia returned to her normal attire, not wanting to risk the medicine damaging the extravagant fabric. Sofia and James barely returned home when Baileywick told them about Lydia's arm. Sofia wasted not a single second in getting to Lydia's room. Roland and Miles exchanged worried glances. All signs pointed to Lydia making a wealthy recovery. Could they have pushed her too hard? Miranda sat at the foot of the bed with Lydia, watching timidly as Alauna checked the arm. Cedric sauntered in, hearing all the commotion. Sofia glanced fretfully up at him. Cedric put a comforting hand to her shoulder, trying to assure her everything was fine. But when she turned away he smirked maliciously. And so it begins.

"This makes no sense?" Alauna declared, studying the arm carefully. "And you say your arm was...throbbing?"

Lydia nodded. "About...45 minutes after our appointment." Alauna bit her thumb tip. She glared at her notes. None of this made sense.

"What is wrong, Dr. Harlow?" Roland inquired pleadingly.

"I ran multiply tests, checks, and physicals. on her arm. No bumps, abrasions, internal scars, not even so much as an ingrown hair! There is no reason her arm should be numb! Let alone hurting." She spoke so passionately. It was hard to dismiss her work. Alauna rose a scolding brow to Lydia, making her sweat, "Have you been conducting magic when I wasn't looking, Young Princess?"

"No! Of course not! My wand was even hidden so I wouldn't be tempted!"

"Doctor, what's wrong with her?" Miranda pleaded to know.

"Superficially - nothing. Lydia is in perfect health." She was going to stand by that. "But then that doesn't explain why she is at stage two of Atlas Arm."

"What's Atlas Arm?" Miles asked.

Cedric decided to explain this one. "It is said that Atlas - the Titan forever bound to hold up the sky - was finally succumbing to weight of the sky. The muscles in both his arms burst. Even so he tried to keep the sky up. Eventually a powerful numbness weakened him, and soon the life in both arms gave out."

"What happened to his arms?" James asked nervously.

"Zeus charged him with holding up the sky. Since Atlas' arms no longer worked…" Cedric fined his hands to axes and chopped his shoulders. James, Amber, Miranda, and Sofia gasped.

"OH LYDIA!" Miranda hugged Lydia for dear life. Sofia staggered, stifling horrified gasps behind a hand, falling against the wall. It was just as Cedric said. Lydia she...she was going to lose her arm.

"My Queen," Alauna called to her, "If you recall the tale, Atlas continued holding the sky despite his injury. That's what led to the...you-know-what." Miranda was thankful Alauna didn't say amputation. "Princess Lydia has not only refrained from using magic, she's also followed her daily schedule to a fault. There's no reason for her arm to be like this."

"And yet it is!" Cedric stated gruffly. Lydia - by impulse - flashed a glare at him. "Either your diagnosis is incorrect," Cedric stuck the tip of his wand under Alauna's chin, "Or you deliberately poisoned the princess!"

"What?!" Roland gasped, horrified by the assumption. Before he could protest, Miles already had Alauna at sword point. Alauna held her hands above her head. Dread prickled her heart when the wall stopped her. "Hold your weapons!" Roland ordered.

"Your Majesty, Cedric has made a valid point!" Miles kept his sword up.

"First time for everything." James muttered.

"Hold your weapons! That's an order!" Cedric and Miles, reluctantly, didn't make a move. "Alauna! Please explain yourself! Perhaps you misdiagnosed."

Alauna dropped to a knee, head hung abjectly in loyalty. "I swear under the watchful gaze of Alchemist Flynn, I made no error!" Her emerald green eyes released tears down her chocolate colored cheeks. "I followed the administrations to the letter! No steps were missed!"

Roland wished to believe her. But evidence disproved her vows. Lydia began to wonder of this was the difficult decisions aspect Miles spoke of. "I really need you to think, Alauna. If you didn't miss a step, could someone have altered the concoction?" A small smirk twitched Cedric's cheek.

"That is possible." She admitted the next part with great regret, "But I was the only physician on duty, Sire."

Roland lowered hid head, sighing somberly, "Then you leave me no choice." He nodded to Miles.

Lydia lunged forward, throwing herself in the middle. "Please wait!" She spread her arms protectively. Small sharp stitches pained her right shoulder. She ignored them. "Alauna didn't do anything! Sofia and I can both testify!"

"She's right!" Sofia joined her. She stood in front of Lydia, increasing the distance between Alauna, and Cedric and Miles. "I was there in the infirmary! Alauna never did anything Lydia didn't recognize!"

"Then explain why your arm is adversely affected just hours after your treatment!" Cedric demanded. Lydia's mouth dropped. She couldn't explain. But Alauna never dosed her. She wouldn't. If she had, she would have done it days ago.

"I am sorry, Alauna." Roland moaned woefully. "But until this matter is resolved-"

"I lied." Lydia blurted. All eyes falling on her made her shrink guiltily. Her mouth went dry. "I-I lied." Cedric's smirk widened. And the heroics arise. "Last night...I couldn't sleep. I took my wand and went to the pond."

"You what?" Miranda shrieked, rising and putting her hands to her hips. Amber, James, and the others were shocked to hear she lied. Roland furrowed his brow in disappointment. Sofia and Alauna however...they remained skeptical.

"I'm sorry, mom! My arm was feeling better so-"

"So you jeopardize your health - and Alauna's job?"

"I'm sorry! I didn't think something like this would happen!"

Roland folded his arms crossly. "Constable Miles, Baileywick. Escort Alauna back to the infirmary."

"Yes, your Majesty." Baileywick gestured to the door. Alauna walked out with Miles and the Steward, her mind lingering on Lydia.

"Cedric. Take the children back to their rooms."

"Of course." Amber and James were all ready on their way out the door. Sofia was reluctant to leave. Lydia hugged her hands to the young princess's shoulders and gave her a less than comforting warm smile. She handed Sofia off to Cedric. He gave him a skeptical glare, then watched him edge Sofia for the door. The last thing Sofia saw was Miranda and Roland cornering Lydia.

...

Amber and James spoke angrily about Lydia, scolding her for getting Alauna in trouble. James didn't believe Lydia capable of lying, let alone disobeying medical orders. Amber made a sudden 180 in her faith toward Lydia. Magic involves a lot oof misdirection, and Lydia was Queen of false faces.

Sofia deafened their conversations and focused on Cedric. "The fairies said it was astronomical Lydia would end up like this."

"My books said the same thing. So long as she refrained from using magic." Cedric shook his head, "Magic is addictive. Unfortunately, Lydia has fallen prey to it. Now her arm will suffer the price."

"There has to be a way to save her!" Sofia begged. "You have to do something!"

"I am afraid I can't. My book says there is no cure for Atlas Arm."

"There must be!" Sofia grabbed the robe, shaking Cedric fiercely. "Please! You must know something!"

Cedric turned toward the window, hiding a victorious smirk. "There actually is." He struggled to contain his glee. He pointed to Sofia's Amulet, "The magic of your amulet."

Sofia clasped the amulet protectively. "Are...are you sure?"

"As I told you before, the amulet contains powerful magic. Ten times that of any sorcerer. With it I would have the power to reverse any injury, cure any ailment I desire." He sneakily shifted attention back toward Lydia's room. "That does include Lydia's steadily worsening arm."

"Um…" Sofia rubbed the amulet nervously between her palms. "I don't...I mean...I…"

"You made a promise to the king. I understand." Cedric knelt, leaning in close to savor Sofia's despair, "But is a promise worth more than your sister's arm?" He clicked his tongue, shaking his head, "And I was under the impression sister's would do anything for each other. I know Lydia would do it for you."

"It's just…" Sofia couldn't tell him the true reason behind her resistance to parting with the amulet. "Alauna said showing, not certain." Cedric's brow dropped. Alauna did say Lydia was displaying the symptoms. Not that she had Atlas Arm. Cedric could easily see Sofia was stalling handing over the amulet. All good things to those who wait. "I do know this. Lydia hasn't used her magic in the last week. She lied to save Alauna."

Cedric laughed nervously, "It was that obvious, huh?"

"Lydia was never able to get a lie past me. Something happened back at the infirmary, and I'm going to find out what."

"Up-up-up, not so fast!" Cedric stopped her. "Your father ordered me to escort your back to your room. Obey him I shall." Cedric guided her for her room.

"But-"

"Constable Miles and Baileywick have the situation under control. And I'm sure King Roland and Queen Miranda as getting to the bottom of things." He flashed a grin, "Surely your mother can see through Lydia's lies."

...

"Lydia, I can't believe you'd do something like this." Miranda reprimanded her harshly. "Alauna, Roland, and the Fairies explicitly told you NO MAGIC."

Lydia shrank three sizes. "I'm sorry. I was going crazy. I just-"

"That's no excuse!" Roland rumbled. "What you did has not only risked your arm, Alauna nearly lost her job!"

Lydia knew the whole story was a lie. That didn't lessen the guilt. "I know...I didn't think this would happen. Not after one time."

"One time is all it usually takes. Even if it isn't, how long before once became twice or ten?"

"I'm sorry." It's all she could say. "So...what now?" She massaged her completely numb arm.

"For now you will remain here and think on the consequences of your actions." Roland ordered. Lydia nodded compliantly. "In the meantime, I will confer with Dr. Merr if there is a way to determine if you truly have Atlas Arm." Lydia froze. Merr would undoubtedly expose the lie. Alauna was on the brink of unemployment.

Roland and Miranda left Lydia to her thoughts. The doors closed with an unnervingly loud slam. Lydia threw herself on her bed. She released a defeated breath. "This is a fine mess." She mumbled. She flexed her arm. It really was numb. She hasn't used her magic once since the accident. Something else was going on. And she had a feeling a certain overzealous sorcerer was behind it.

"Liddy!" Lydia rolled to the foot of her bed. Eezeyal emerged from her closet covered in cobwebs. Clover hopped behind him. Pieces of plaster stuck to his fur.

"Where have you been?"

"No time for that!" Eezeyal perched to the trunk. "You'll never believe what I saw in King Role's room."

Liddy pressed her fingertips to his beak. "Not now. I need your help."

She hurriedly explained to Eezeyal that Alauna was nearly sacked because Lydia was displaying the symptoms of Atlas Arm. Eezeyal found that impossible seeing as how he hid her wand where she couldn't' find it. Lydia was aware of that, but told Roland she used magic in order to save Alauna. It seemed to work. But then Roland said he'd consult with Merr.

"He'll expose this lie faster than Aladdin exposed Jafar!" Eezeyal panicked. "Laun's gonna be booted outta her like a pig skin ball!"

"We can't let that happen!" Clover stressed. "But how? If Alauna didn't drug you, and you didn't use magic, what could have happened?"

"I have no idea. Grr!" She fiercely scratched her arm. "But I hope we find out soon! My arm won't stop itching!" Clover and Eezeyal's heads tilted in bewilderment. Soon Lydia questioned the itching. "Wait…"

Clover hopped to her side. "If your arm is numb, how is it itching?" Lydia removed her blazer, then rolled up her right sleeve. Eezeyal perched on her knee. The three gasped. Lydia's white bandages were bright pink. "I'm guessing those didn't come like that."

"No!" Lydia unraveled the bandages. A searing red rash blemished the entire tricep. "That's new."

"This treatment o' yers never gave yah this rash before."

"So someone messed with your meds?" Clover asked, ensuring he heard her correctly.

"More than that." Lydia bit her lip. "Someone put a rose in my meds."

"What's that matter?"

"I'm allergic to roses. I break out in a rash."

Clover was surprised. "So how does this help you and Alauna?"

Lydia erected a finger, smiling, "Alauna knows I'm allergic to roses. She marked it in my medical file."

"Tell the king! You'll be in the clear!" Clover urged excitedly.

"Then Alauna will be hazed!" Clover's excitement died like the wind. "Alauna has access to my file. It will be considered she used to poison me." Lydia eyed the rash curiously, "Whatever was in that batch had rose in it. Likely it was supposed to go unnoticed. Whoever tampered with my medicine didn't know of my allergy."

"Then they used Rose Thorns." Eezeyal concluded. "There's a powder one can brew that mimics Atlas Arm. Rose Thorns are a key ingredient."

Clover shrugged his paws, "Who has access to Rose Thorns?"

Lydia and Eezeyal shared grim glares.

...

"ROSE THORNS?" Cedric scoffed at the top of his lungs. Lydia glared from her seat across his workshop. Eezeyal shared the same glare, primed to launch off her head the second a lie spouted from that silver tongue. The two kept their tempers under wraps though. Sofia was standing right beside him. Lydia really wanted to know why she was there. And what was bubbling in that cauldron. Her arm was a priority. "My dear Princess, I understand you're a wee bit paranoid-"

"I'm curious! Not paranoid!"

"But I currently do not have Rose Thorns. I've yet to collect any."

"Lydia…" Sofia touched her knee, "Mr. Ceedric wouldn't do something like this. He's been trying his hardest to find a cure for your arm. Not hurt it."

A strong shock pierced Lydia's mind. "So I'm expected to believe - after days of you plotting and scheming-"

"Plots and schemes being one in the same."

"That you had nothing to do with this!" She held up her redressed arm. Cedric already had her in a corner. She wasn't about to let him learn of her allergy.

Sofia wasn't sure what she meant by plotting and scheming. Must have something to do with the dual. "Forgive my impertinence, but you should really not flatter yourself." Cedric leaned against the wall, "You are not my number one concern."

"I know what your number one concern is!" Another thought came to mind. She flashed a quick glance to Sofia's amulet, then worried when Sofia's big blue eyes were becoming glossy. "And your stupid pranks on me have gone one step too far this time!"

Sofia was overcome with relief. A prank war! Thank goodness.

"Even if it was, good luck proving it." He practically dared. Not a denial but not confirmation either. "Doctors use Rose Thorns as well as Sorcerers. And seeing as how I haven't been near when you were getting treated…" He trailed off. Lydia swallowed nervously. She reveals Rose Thorns were put in her medicine, Alauna was going to jail. She gritted her teeth. She got to her feet. Small pops jolted her shoulder. The bone was crackling. Next thing she knew, her arm went limp. Eezeyal squawked terrified. Wormwood and Cedric smirked. "Looks like Alauna's getting a pink slip after all."

"Not if I can help it!" Lydia spat, holding her lifeless arm. "If this is just the result of a powder, the effects will wear off." Cedric raised a brow. Sofia fashioned Lydia a makeshift sling out of a scarf. "We need to find dad!" The two princesses and Eezeyal burst out of Cedric's workshop.

Cedric watched the trio disappear down the tower. "This is becoming tiresome." He growled to Wormwood. "Whether it's because she's fed up or I slip up, I'm going to be exposed so long as she's onto me." Wormwood squawked, agreeing with the summation. "Ignorance is bliss, Wormy…" A trail of dust twinkled as he circled his wand, "Time to make the princess happy."

...

A carriage was brought to the main courtyard, ready to transport Miranda and Roland to Merr's clinic. After Miranda was helped in, Roland stepped on the first foot hold to enter the carriage. "DAD WAIT!" Lydia and Sofia slid to sudden halts. They lurched over panting, completely out of breath. "Dad...no Merr...Roses...woof." Lydia's words tripped.

Miranda and Roland weren't sure what she was saying. "Uhh, I'm sorry?" Roland chirped.

Lydia took a deep breath. Wind returned to her lungs. She still tapped Sofia, wanting her to explain. Her arm really tired her out. "Alauna didn't do anything! And Lydia lied when she said she used magic when she wasn't supposed to."

"So...She lied about lying." Miranda deciphered.

"Basically." Lydia coughed.

"Then what happened to your arm?" Roland demanded to know.

Lydia took a deep breath. Cedric will not doubt retaliate, but she's covered his evil for too long. "Cedric put rose thorn powder in my medicine."

"He what?!" Miranda gasped.

"Is that bad?" Roland wondered.

"Lydia's allergic to roses!"

"Outrageous!" Roland growled.

Sofia pushed Roland back, "Please don't be mad at Mr. Ceedric, Dad! He and Lydia were in the middle of a prank war!" Sofia announced happily. Eezeyal slapped a wing to his face. Lydia groaned. Not what they wanted to use, but it was going to have to do.

"Will you be alright?"

"I have it on good authority that these effects will wear off. I'll live." She looked down at her arm. It was very slight, but she was able to curl her fingers. "See. Already coming back to life."

"Why?" Miranda asked her sadly.

"Well…" Lydia twisted a lock of her hair. Perhaps this was for the best, "It may be because I left a popping seed in Cedric's shoe-"

"No! Why would you lie to us about your arm?"

"Oh." Lydia giggled bashfully. "Because Alauna was going to get fired. I was afraid...if you knew...you'd be even angrier knowing Cedric and I were acting like kids." She shuffled her shoulders, unable to look Roland in the eye. "Especially when...I represent you and all of Enchancia."

Roland was taken aback. He did say that. He didn't realize the pressure he put her under...would compel her to lie. Miranda scolded him with a raise of her brow. Roland sighed dismally. Walking over he embraced Lydia in a warm hug. "I'm sorry, Lydia. Here I am demanding you take heed of your actions, while not paying close enough attention to my own."

Lydia returned the hug. "Don't apologize. Trust me…there's no reason to."

"There is." He assured her firmly. "But next time, can you and Cedric tone down the pranks. I don't want you both getting hurt."

"Okay." Lydia yawned, stretching her arms out above her head. "Ugh. I think I'll take a little nap."

"By all means." Roland laughed. "You've had a busy day."

"Just make sure you wake up before dinner." Miranda requested.

"I will." Lydia handed Eezeyal off to Sofia. "See you at dinner."

Sofia pet Eezeyal lovingly. Happiness filled her heart seeing Lydia's shoulder move. "She'll be fine, Sofie." Eezeyal promised.

"I know."

Miranda giggled, hugging Roland's arm. "Cedric and Lydia are turning into the best of friends."

"Oh I already knew that." Roland boasted. "Even if they don't want to admit it, Cedric and Lydia are kindred spirits. There's no denying it forever."

...

"HMPH!" Lydia threw her face into her pillows. "What an exhausting day!" She flipped over, draping an arm over her eyes.

Soft quilted cushions felt heavenly on her sore back. Feeling gradually returned to her arm, adding to her bliss. Thank goodness. Hopefully this madness at least expedited her healing. As sleep slowly gripped her, Lydia found herself dwelling on the lies on top of lies on top of lies she's blatantly fed to her family. And for what? For Cedric? No. So Cedric won't end the game. He's already proven he's willing to do anything for Sofia's amulet. Who knows what he'll do if Lydia blows the whistle.

"I hate this…I hate lying." She rasped under her breath. "I wish I could just forget."

There were two pokes to her ribs. Lydia lifted her arm. A wand tip touched her forehead. Cedric standing over her. "Wish granted." A bright light blinded Lydia. Then the world went black.

...

"Liddy?...Hey. Lydia. Wake up sweetie." Lydia's eyes fluttered open. Her room and Eezeyal came into blurry view. The room seemed darker than before. She gazed out the window. The sun was close to setting beyond the horizon. "Come on, Liddy. You'll be late for dinner." She groaned dryly, leaning up on one hand. The worst headache pounded her head like a drum. She massaged the back of her neck to the bridge of her nose. She was so tired, she was startled awake by her right hand moving. The effects of the thorns wore off finally. All it took was a little nap. "Well yer arm is right as rain. You feelin' any better?"

"My head hurts. Other than that…" She blushed when her stomach growled, "I'm just hungry."

"Then let's get you to the dining hall." Eezeyal flapped, pulling her by the sleeve. "You'll need your nutrition in order to keep up with that snake, Cedric."

"That's a little mean, isn't it Ezee? I know Cedric beat me in that duel, but you don't have to call him a snake."

Eezeyal threw his head back, howling with laughter. "In that case, how do you like rat? Or varmint? Ooh! Hows about Ratty Varmint?"

"Enough! I won't hear that kind of talk!" She barked. Eezeyal gaped disheartened. "Cedric's got a sly way with words, is a little creepy, and doesn't pull punches. But I won't sit here and let you insult him when he doesn't deserve it!"

"Doesn't deserve-" Eezeyal shook the disbelief from his ears. "Yer the one that dun declared him a low down snake in the grass!"

"Why the heck would I do that?" She snapped. "I'm no sore loser!"

"This ain't about losing sore! Have you forgotten what he did to you? What he almost did to Li'l Sofie?"

Lydia's shoulders sank. "What do you mean?" She blinked fretfully, almost scaring Eezeyal. "What did Cedric do?"

Eezeyal's head shook, not getting why she was acting that way. "Hmm…" He touched her forehead. She didn't have a fever. When Eezeyal moved his wing, something peered beyond her bangs. Lifting them, Eezeyal was shocked to find a nice knot protruding on her forehead. "The hay did that madman do to ya?"

TO BE CONTINUED! Sorry if it wasn't that great. Later!