Ella and Alyssa Rose rode into town on the way back to the chateau. When they arrived, the girls spotted Ella's friend, Rosalie, who is also a maid to a family who lives near the kingdom. The girls said hello to Rosalie and Alyssa Rose gave her a hug. Rosalie commented how much Alyssa Rose has grown and asked if she has been good for her sister. Alyssa Rose nodded her head yes. As the girls walked around the market, Rosalie turned to Ella and said, "You two don't look very well, miss. Not at all." Rosalie shook her head. "Why do you both stay there when they treat you so?" "Because we made our mother and father a promise," Ella answered as they walked into the market. "To cherish the place we were so happy. They loved our house and now that they're gone, we love for them. It's our home."
Just then, the three girls heard the Royal Crier announce, "Hear Ye! Hear Ye!" The chatter in the marketplace quieted as the Royal Crier started to read from his scroll. "Know on this day, two weeks hence, there shall be held at the palace a royal ball. At said ball, in accordance with ancient custom, the Prince shall choose a bride." Everyone in the town gasped in excitement, including Ella and Alyssa Rose. "Furthermore," the Town Crier continued. "At the behest of the Prince, it is hereby declared that every maiden in the kingdom, be she noble or commoner, is invited to attend. Such is the command of our most noble King."
Ella and Alyssa Rose quickly rushed home to tell Anastasia, Drizella, and Lady Tremaine what they heard. Ella thought that she will finally be able to see Kit again and Alyssa Rose also thought that she will be able to meet Thomas. Lady Tremaine and her daughters were also excited. Anastasia proclaimed, "I shall trick him into loving me! See if I don't!" "This is the most hugest news!" Drizella added. "Girls, calm yourselves," Lady Tremaine scolded gently. "Now listen to me, one of you must win the heart of the Prince. Do that, and we can unwind the debt in which were ensnared when we came to this backwater." Drizella and Anastasia began to daydream about being the Prince's bride. Lady Tremaine orders Ella to return to town to see the seamstress to make three ball gowns. Alyssa Rose politely asked Ella if she could have a dress made for her, too. Lady Tremaine muttered yes. To Lady Tremaine, Ella said, "That's very thoughtful of you." Lady Tremaine turned around and asked what she meant. "To think of us," Ella said. Lady Tremaine looked at them. "Think of you?" Drizella began to laugh. "Mommy, she believes that the other dresses are for them! How embarrassing." "Oh, you two are too ambitious for your own good," Lady Tremaine commented. "Oh, no. We want to see our friend."
"Let me be very clear, one gown for Anastasia, one for Drizella, and one for me. La mode Parisian." Alyssa Rose pouted and walked away. As Ella understood what the three needed, she went back to the stables and found Alyssa Rose brushing Major's mane. "There you are, Lissie." The poor little girl was trying her best not to whimper, but Ella heard a sniffle. Ella gave her sister another hug and wiped her tears as she promised her that she will make a dress for both of them to wear to the ball. Alyssa Rose cheered up and back to town they went.