Since Impa had been appointed as Tilda's Attendant, one might expect she would receive preferential treatment from the other staff. Unfortunately, this is not the case.

As Impa wanders through the kitchens, the servants either cast a scowl or turn their backs completely. Her new position had instigated animosity and envy amongst the staff; and they are not afraid to show it. She approaches Marjory, who loads her bowl with sloppy stew and thrusts it into her hands without a word.

Somehow, her lonely world had become even lonelier. She chooses to eat outside in the courtyard rather than in the kitchens with the rest. Her boots press into the muddy puddles that litter the grass as she strides towards the still-water fountains. Perched upon the marble steps, she lifts the spoon to her lips. The steaming soup warms her stomach on this chilly morn as she ponders the vague instruction of her Elders.

"Hello there." a voice chirps, stirring her from her trance.

Impa instinctively recoils, expecting to find the Chamberlain looming over her. Instead, a young woman in a plain black dress and a white apron waits patiently before her with a bowl of stew in hand.

Impa casts her eyes over the unfamiliar face. "Who are you?"

"My name is Imogen." she chimes. "I'm the new maid. As it's my first day on the job, I thought I might introduce myself to everyone. Do you mind if I join you?"

"What wrong with the kitchen?"

"I like to be outside in the fresh air in the morning." she answers. "It wakes you up like a cold bath, you know?"

The stranger seats herself on the steps in uncomfortable proximity.

"I didn't know they were employing more staff…" Impa mutters. "Although I guess they needed someone to fill my old position…"

"So you used to be a maid? What do you do now?"

"I was recently allocated the role of Princess Tilda's Attendant. It is my duty to tend to her everyday needs and ensure her general safety and wellbeing."

"A great responsibility!" Imogen says admirably.

"So I've been told…" Impa mumbles.

"I'm sure they picked the right person for the job." Imogen assures her. "Anyway, I must be going. There are shelves to dust and carpets to beat."

The maid climbs to her feet and brushes the dew from her dress before skipping merrily into the Castle. Although the girl seems harmless, Impa remains wary of her intent. She hastily finishes her soup and hurries indoors to resume her services.