A candlelit room filled the Head maid's vision, the gentle and warm hands of the others beside her guiding her onto a wooden chair. Pushing aside the small blanket wrapped around the bundle, her amber eyes, along with the others, rested upon the small child.

"Oh Sophia, you're drenched to the bone!" One of the young girls cried, pulling a patterned thick blanket from one of the beds and placing it over her shoulders, her fingers fixing the older woman's strands of hair.

"I'm fine, Lyra. It was worth it, saving this child…" Sophia replied, smiling as the baby curiously watched them.

Skirting across the room to fetch a small bucket filled halfway with the water she'd drawn early that morning, Meria returned to Sophia's side, withdrawing a cloth from her apron before reaching out for the child. "May I?"

Understanding, Sophia offered the child, watching ever so closely as she removed the blanket and gently ran a damp cloth over its face, arms and legs. "There's no telling how long this baby has been out in the elements. Ophelia, fetch some warm milk, please."

"Understood," Ophelia, who was on the other side of the room watching curiously, replied, lifting her black skirt, her legs carrying her swiftly out of the room and towards the kitchens down the long corridor.

"Such beautiful hair … is it true she was drifting down the black river?" Meria asked.

Sophia nodded. "Yes. It surely is a miracle I saw her in time on my way back from the markets."

"I can't believe someone would abandon such a beautiful child!" Cordelia replied, propping herself onto one of the wooden chairs across from Sophia, her arms crossed and her expression haughty. "Even if she looks different from the rest of us, there's no reason to throw her into a river!"

Meria giggled at the young maid's reply. "While I agree with your exclamation, maybe there was a reason, like the King said. Maybe the mother or father couldn't raise the child."

Lyra, who was rummaging through the storage closet from a short distance, cried back. "But to throw the child into the river? Why not leave her on someone's doorstep? At least then the child isn't left for dead facing the currents!"

Sophia chuckled at the young maids words, and held out her arms to retrieve the child from Meria. "Even so, what matters now is she's safe. She should count the Twilight Stars she has found sanctuary within the Palace."

After spending a short amount of time sorting through the clutter within the closet, Lyra made a noise of triumph. Pulling out a small bassinet with white and black ribbons adorning its exterior, a folded up wool blanket within, she returned to the girls' side and placed the small crib in front of Sophia, her hands planted on either side of her hips elatedly. "Here we are."

"Where did you get these from?" Sophia inquired. "They look awfully similar to the Princess's…"

"Well, she isn't using them anymore, so why not? Besides, at least she'll have a place to sleep comfortably," Lyra replied before holding out a small satin white gown for the baby. "Looks to be around the same size too. Perfect."

Within minutes, the baby was dressed in the nightgown, and placed within the bassinet, the woolen blankets covering her. After situating her, the maids gathered around smiling. Eventually, Ophelia returned with a warm bottle of goat's milk, handing the small bottle to the child, who sucked hungrily.

"She's practically blending in with the blankets!" Ophelia replied, laughing. "Surely she'll disappear any minute."

The subtle noise of the door opening shifted their attention away from the baby, their amber eyes glimpsing familiar small vermillion curls and bright large eyes of the Princess stepping inside. Ever so curious, Midna's gaze traveled the room, her gaze shifting around the small enclosed room to the maids bowing their heads to her.

"Princess? To what do we owe this visit?" Sophia inquired, regaining her footing, her hands folded across her abdomen respectively.

As the Princess stepped further into the room, the familiar sight of her Nurse Maid followed after, smiling in greeting as she motioned the young girl closer towards the bassinet. "Forgive our intrusion. She wishes to look upon the baby once more."

Sophia nodded. "Of course. Girls…" She motioned for the other maids to step aside, and allow space for the young princess to step through.

Following her instructions, the girls watched the young child approach the crib, her eyes faintly scrutinizing their appearances before she peered over the basinet on tip toes, her large amber eyes taking in the sight of the baby within.

"She truly looks strange…" Midna commented. Not only was the child's skin and hair color as white as alabaster stone, but her eyes were bright and vivid like the dancing flames of their torches. "She's so pretty,

Though their heads were bent respectively, they couldn't agree more with Midna. The child was indeed beautiful, despite having such pale skin and bright blue eyes.

At this moment, the door to the chamber opened, two maids conversing lightly as they sauntered inside. On account of noticing the Princess in the room, along with her Nurse Maid, they immediately stilled, their widened eyes and fingers pointed in her direction. Not long after, they fell into silent murmurings between each other.

"It's the Princess…"

"I wonder why she's in the Maid's Quarters…"

"Looks like she's here to see the child, though I can't help but wonder why…"

"Really? So, is it true? The baby drifted down the river from the cursed desert?"

"If that's so, doesn't this represent an omen?"

While she wasn't immune to hearing their whisperings behind her, Midna looked at them curiously. Cursed desert? The Council earlier revealed their thoughts regarding the baby as an omen, but how could a child pose any threat? "What are you talking about?"

At her voice, they immediately stilled, their faces blanched.

Before they could explain themselves, Sophia sauntered up to them, her face scornful and annoyed. "Not in front of the Princess!"

Myra and Lyra, who were closest to the pair, squinted their eyes at their rude remarks, their hands crossed over their chests. "You shouldn't talk so rudely! Show some manners!" The twins replied in unison.

"F-forgive us!" They replied, their heads quickly bent in apology.

Despite never explaining themselves, Midna turned away from them, her eyes focused once more on the baby in the bassinet. As the Sophia stood beside her, smiling softly, Midna turned to her. "May I touch her?"

"Of course, Princess," Sophia replied.

Pleased by this, she reached her turquoise fingers towards the child's face, hoping to touch the baby's delicate white hair and smooth white skin. To her surprise, the baby noticed her hand's approach and grasped her finger softly. Midna positively beamed. "She's holding my hand!" And the child had a grip on her too.

Hearing this, the maids quickly gathered around the bassinet, awing at the scene. It seemed the two shared a bond already, and so early into her arrival to the Palace.

"What are you going to name her?" Midna asked curiously, smiling sweetly at the baby.

"How about Meira?" One of the girls questioned.

At the name, Midna scrunched her face in dissatisfaction. "Meira? Hm … Sounds a little like my name…"

"Then, how about Cordelia!"

A whine escaped the child in the crib, her small hands wiping at her face. It seemed even the name upset the child, and the other girls gathered around couldn't help but giggle.

"I don't think she likes the name Cordelia," Midna laughed.

Lyra moved closer to the bassinet, followed by her sister Meira. "How about … Lyra?"

Sophia only shook her head at the names. Such familiar sounding names only amused the older woman, but she remained quiet, her eyes watching the child's reaction to each name.

"Ophelia!" One of the girls blurted, and realizing she'd spoken too loudly, blushed in embarrassment.

Midna mused. "She doesn't look like an Ophelia either…"

"Then, what about Miranda?" Someone asked.

At the name, everyone's eyes turned at the young maid, their eyes asking why? From their scornful gazes, she shrunk back, sweat dropping as she awkwardly smiled.

Sophia almost sighed. "What in the name of Twilight would make you pick such a name?" She teased.

"What's wrong with Miranda? I happen to find it rather pleasant sounding!" Another maid fumed, her hands placed on either side of her hips.

"As pleasant as those names sound, I think its best if the child has a name of her own. Besides, I think it would be rather confusing if I named her after all of you, is that not correct?" Sophia teased, laughing suddenly at their flushed faces. "Actually, I have a name already picked out for her. Why don't we call her Celeste?"

Upon hearing the name, Midna's eyes almost sparkled. "Celeste, as in heavenly being?"

Sophia nodded, impressed by the young Princess's reply. "Correct, Princess!"

"The child's beauty is as lovely as the Twilight Stars," Lyra commented, her eyes sparkling just the same. "It's a wonderful name, Ms. Sophia!"

Upon noticing the baby was falling asleep, the Nurse Maid placed her hands upon Midna's shoulders. "I do believe its getting late, Princess. Perhaps we should return to your chambers."

A yawn escaped her, and Midna nodded. "You're right." Turning to the Head Maid, Midna folded her hands in front of her, a small smile brightening her face. "Ms. Sophia, is it alright if I visit the baby again?"

"Of course, Princess. You are always welcome."


4 Years Later

The pitter patter of feet resounded through the Royal Halls, attendants of all ranks turning their heads at the sight of a white-haired child running past them. As Council men exited their respective rooms, they narrowed their gazes, the little girl oblivious to their scornful stares.

Behind her, the Head Maid, Ms. Sophia, chased after, offering quick apologies right and left to those in the vicinity. "Celeste, come back! Don't run through the halls! It's improper!"

"You can't catch me, mama!" Quickly rounding the corner, Celeste slowed her pace, her cerulean eyes falling onto a deep maroon curtain hanging down from a large window pane. At her mother's quick approach, she eased herself behind the curtain, concealing herself while holding back a giggle.

As Sophia flew down the hallway, somewhat out of breath, her skirt hiked with each step, she eventually disappeared from sight. After a few moments of silence, Celeste eased her way out of her hiding spot, satisfied she'd outrun her mother. Before she could turn and run the opposite direction, she accidentally ran into a tall alabaster pillar, the structure suddenly moving on its own accord from her unpredicted touch.

Alarmed, Celeste's eyes turned upwards, an enormous and beautifully intricated vase rocking back and forth from its top. Unable to stop the vase from clattering onto the floor, she quickly grasped the pillar with both hands, hoping to steady it, but to her dismay, the vase shifted and fell towards her.

A shriek resounded shortly after, the impact of the vase clashing towards her would soon and undeniably bring attention towards her and the mess. Unable to stop its descent, she fell back onto her butt, covering her face fearfully. Yet, as she stayed in that position, nothing happened. There was no sound of the vase hitting the alabaster floor, nor any pain felt within the moments, and bemused, she removed her hands, her eyes taking in the extent of damage.

A gasp escaped her. The vase, which had been so close to falling on her, was frozen in place, as if by magic, mere inches away from her. Ever so slowly, it ascended the air above her, fixating itself atop the pillar once more, as if it had never moved from its spot.

How had it not hit her? Was it magic? From the corner of her eye, she thought she noticed movement, and turning her head, her eyes focusing on the curtains beside her, she glimpsed something. A silhouette of a person hidden behind the shadows of the curtains peered at her, crimson eyes sparkling with amusement and his face undiscernible.

Positioned on her hands and knees, her head canted slightly, Celeste did not look away. "Did you save me? Was that magic?"

Without saying a word, a long slender finger positioned itself over his lips, as if to silence her of his presence. Seconds after, the sounds of footsteps drew close, and before she could say anything more to the person, Celeste saw the presence of her mother approaching her.

From her long sprint throughout the halls, she fought to catch her breath. If she hadn't heard her daughter's scream, she wouldn't have turned on her heels. Sophia saw her daughter, sitting on the cold floor, her eyes watching her curiously, and though she wanted to scorn her for misbehaving, she couldn't find it in herself to do it. "Celeste, this is the reason we do not run in the halls," She softly replied before bending down beside her. "Are you alright? Did you scuff your knee?"

Celeste shook her head. "No mama. I'm fine."

Pleased by this, Sophia picked up the child, situating her upon her hip, her lips planting a soft kiss upon her temple. While Celeste enjoyed running through the halls, Sophia couldn't help but worry about the whisperings behind her back. It would only be a matter of time before her innocent childhood life would soon be tarnished by the sneers of other attendants and higher ups. "Don't go running off like that again. You had me worried sick…" Expecting the child to apologize, she noticed her daughter looking away from her, her eyes staring curiously at the curtains by the window. "What is it?"

"I saw a funny man…" She replied, pushing away from Sophia. As her mother let her down, Celeste sauntered over to the window pane, pushing aside the curtains. For some reason, he suddenly disappeared. Where did he go? "He was just here, mama."

"Who, my dear?" As she walked closer towards the large window, she looked out the sparkling glass, her eyes taking in the beautiful gardens circling the entirety of the Palace. The window was securely locked, and there was no sign of anyone loitering around the halls. "I believe it was your imagination sweetie."

Despite having searched the curtains thoroughly, Celeste returned to her mother's side, her thoughts troubled. "No. I really did see someone. He stopped the vase from falling on me."

At this, Sophia's head swiftly turned on her daughter. "What?"

Realizing what she said, Celeste quickly covered her mouth. Oops. She shouldn't have said that. Now her mom would be upset. "I … accidentally bumped into the vase, and it was about to fall me … and—"

Sophia's eyes shifted to the vase situated on the pillar. It seemed fine, and there were no signs of damage upon the exterior, which she was thankful for. The best artisans of Twili crafted and painted the vases, displayed throughout all the halls and chambers of the Palace, and they certainly cost a large sum of money, that even their lives couldn't replace. "Celeste, tell me what happened," She sternly replied, hands planted on her hips.

Remembering how the mysterious man held a finger to his lips the moment her mother soon appeared before her, Celeste couldn't help but mimic the same hand movement. "I … can't tell you."

Sophia crossed her arms, her brow arched as she watched her daughter hesitate before her. "You won't tell your mother what happened?"

Celeste nodded. "It's a secret. I can't tell."

She sighed. "Alright. I won't pry, as long as you promise not to run in the halls anymore." Pleased by her daughter's fervent nod and elated smile, Sophia smiled. Bending down, she smoothed back her daughter's long hair. Her hair has become a lot wavier as of late and was well past her upper back, her bangs falling over her eyes messily. She tucked a few strands behind her ears, and satisfied, she stood up. "You should wear your hair back, now that's it's gotten so long."

"Okay."

"Come along, Celeste. It's almost time for lunch."

"Yes mama," Taking her mother's hand, she followed. However, curiosity once more got the better of her, and looking back towards the window where the mysterious man hid, she suddenly caught sight of him once more. Again, he was half concealed by the curtain, smiling and a single finger positioned over his lips. Celeste mimicked him, smiling as her mother led her back to the kitchens.


4 Years Later

A pristine and elaborate room, the immense high internal onyx walls embellished with intricate paintings of the Royal Family, torches alit at each section greeted the Princess. As her slippered feet ambled across the white alabaster flooring, her amber eyes took in the sight of the beautifully detailed silver cutlery laid out across the white clothed dining table, its length stretched, with velvet cushions adorning the dark and detailed chairs. A grand fireplace was positioned at the far side of the room, warming the area nicely, though it was only ever used when lavishing on delicacies.

While her amber eyes drifted across the room curiously, her gaze settled on her Nurse Maid Ruth and the Royal Adviser, Zant, who were both standing before her, each with different expressions.

Ruth, dressed in her normal attire, a loose fitted black and white dress, her hair assembled neatly in a bun, her fringe framing her oval face nicely, smiled sweetly. Zant on the other hand, dressed in dark maroon clothing, a black cloak wrapped around his shoulders and his shoulder length crimson hair combed back neatly, a few strands falling over his face, looked on with a mere blank façade, his expression saying little to nothing, as usual.

If anything, it was well past the afternoon, and though she'd been called to awaken at a more earlier convenience, Midna preferred the comfort of her bed than her studies. Ruth had been insistent, urging her to awaken several times this morning, but after more than a dozen attempts, Midna finally awoke, bathed, and dressed.

"It's been brought to my attention that you've been sneaking out during lessons, Princess," Zant began, seating himself in one of the chairs, though, remaining in a stiff posture as usual, a red covered tome positioned in his lap. While he worked to uncork a small bottle of ink which was secured in his pocket, he pulled out a small white feathered quill, his eyes watching Midna closely. "I am merely here to supervise."

She had the urge to roll her eyes, though she held back, nodding only slightly, her hands folded in front of her politely. It seemed today's lesson would take place in the dining room of all places, a different setting than she was used to. Normally, she awoke within the earliest hours, spending most days in the library, learning history, science, astrology, mathematics, and anything pertaining to magic. Today, however was different, and judging by the Royal Adviser's unblinking stare, and need to supervise her, she felt an inclination to sigh.

"You may proceed," Zant instructed Ruth.

Clasping her hands, Ruth's eyes glimmered with excitement, approaching Midna suddenly before taking her hands into hers and guiding her around the table. "Princess, today we shall take the time to learn proper etiquette. There is much to learn, but its all so very simple. Let us first begin with how one should walk and greet others. Follow after me."

Positioning herself straight, her hands at her sides, the Nurse Maid glided across the room, slowly. With each turn, she walked calmly, an expression of content shown upon her small face, and a smile brightening her complexion. When confronted by Zant, who stood up upon her approach, his tome and quill put down on the table behind him, he lowered his upper body forward, one arm folded across his abdomen, the other secured behind his back respectively.

"How do you do, Lord Zant," Ruth replied eloquently. Just like Zant, she curtsied, crossing her ankles and bending just a little bit at the knees, her skirts hiked up a little as she leaned forward.

"I'm doing well. How are you today, Princess? My, your smile is quite radiant this morning," Zant replied, a fake smile plastered across his face.

At the sight of her Royal Nurse Maid feigning such a compliment, giggling slightly, a hand held over her mouth to hide her embarrassment, Midna blinked. The entire scene looked ultimately disgusting and too weird for her. Should Zant ever compliment her like so, she wasn't sure how she would react, but it certainly wouldn't be with a giggle.

Ruth continued on, this time, turning to Midna, despite her unimpressed frown. "Always maintain a charming front. Never allow your thoughts to betray you. Always nod and uphold the conversation, but do not carry on the conversation too long. Once you've acknowledged each other, be sure to curtesy once more and then carry yourself with grace. Never look back at someone, you might come off at rude."

Midna nodded.

"Alright, let's have you try, Princess," Ruth insisted.

Similar to how Ruth greeted Zant, Midna curtsied, though she felt her expression came off somewhat stiff, not to mention fake. Smiling at this man who carried himself with an air of mysteriousness, if not dreary countenance, certainly made it difficult to show him any kind of compassion. If anything, she didn't like him. Why? There was just something odd about Zant, something, even to this day, she still couldn't fathom; he made her feel uncomfortable. "How … do you do … Zant?"

Though he was bent at the waist, he couldn't help but look up at her with a displeased expression. His respective bow ended suddenly, and he lifted himself into a stiff posture, his arms crossed. "That is not how your Nurse Maid instructed you to greet your peers, Princess. Do it again."

Despite her Nurse Maid encouraging her to try once more, Midna sighed. Once more, she curtsied, lifting her skirts slightly, as he followed after in his bow. "How do you do … Royal Adviser?" Referring to him as Lord Zant didn't set well with her. It was strange, and it was awkward. In fact, this entire confrontation with him, having him watch over her during her lessons, was all so very awkward and uncomfortable.

Again, he shook his head, displeased. "Well, it's certainly better." He sat down, lifting his tome before jotting down his obvious displeasure into the book. "Carry on."

It was no secret Midna disliked Zant, and Ruth knew this very well, still, her stubbornness was rather amusing. If anything, Midna always held some feisty attitude within her, normally expressing what was on her mind, despite the severity her tongue might cause to others. The Princess was too honest for her own good.

"Next, I shall show you how to properly greet those of lower standing. Princess, repeat after me," Ruth replied. Holding herself upright, she looked upon Midna with content. Rather than cutesy like she did before Zant, she instead clasped her hands over her abdomen, nodding only subtly in acknowledgement. "When greeting a servant or an attendant of standing lower than that of a Lord, you must follow this exactly. After that, you may greet them however you like, but always keep your greetings short. Remember, conversing too long with someone of lower standing will surely spread false rumors. Keep it short and simple."

Midna nodded.

As Midna followed along precisely to her Nurse Maid, Ruth's smile widened further. "Very good. Now, let us move right along. Now, the most important out of all of this is walking." Turning away from the Princess, Ruth approached a couple stacks of tomes positioned upon the long table, and held them out. "With this, we shall work on your balance." As she handed one book to Midna, the other placed upon her own head for demonstration, Ruth continued on. "Now do not think about the book. Pretend it's not there. You want to keep you posture straight at all times, carry yourself slowly and swiftly, as if walking on air…"

The two glided around the room, the Royal Nurse Maid managing to maintain her elegance while striding, doing small spins and curtsies, whereas Midna found herself struggling slightly, the book slipping off her head more than once. Ruth made it look so easy, but the weight of the book felt a bit too heavy on her cranium for her liking. "This isn't very easy…"

Ruth giggled, approaching Midna before situating the book once more onto her head. From there, she took Midna's hands and guided her around the table, Zant's unyielding stare following. "Just like this. Don't try to think too much about the book. Don't strain your expression either. The book is there to remind you to keep your head up and posture straight. Simply focus on your feet and the path ahead. With time, it will come more naturally."

Within the quietness of the Dining Room, the double doors opened suddenly, a young attendant stepping inside, his head bent. "Excuse the intrusion. Lord Zant, the King requests an audience."

Pausing in her lessons, Midna watched as Zant lifted himself, bowing apologetically before turning to excuse himself from the room. Once he was gone, Ruth continued guiding the Princess, one step at a time.

Within five minutes, Midna felt she couldn't take any more, her frustrations rising somewhat in her impatience to get past the book balancing stage. Despite Ruth's enthusiasm to continue, Midna stopped and removed the book, placing it down upon the table with ease.

"Princess?" She paused in her glide, her eyes turning curiously towards Midna's dismal expression.

"I'm sorry. It's certainly a bit difficult for me to catch on," She replied, smiling faintly.

"Oh, it's alright Princess. We have much time to practice."

She nodded. "You do it so much better," Midna complimented, canting her head sweetly to the side. "Would you be so kind as to show me again? Along with how to properly greet someone? I would like to watch so I might be able to perfect it as you do."

Ruth's eyes sparkled at the compliment. "Certainly, Princess! Please take a seat and watch." Once more, the Nurse Maid glided across the room, this time, her back to the Princess, swaying ever so gently on her feet. "Like so … you will walk … and walk … and curtesy, and glide across the floor. Smile always … and grace your people with kindness…" Ruth turned around, folding her hands at her abdomen, a tilt of her head following after, before turning once more. "Just like this, Princess." She paused and hiked the sides of her skirts up, crossing her ankles like she had before Zant earlier. "Greet your peers like so…"

After a few minutes of demonstration, Ruth finished, and turned towards the table. "How was that, Princess?" She hoped her performance was enough to encourage Midna to continue, but to her surprise, Midna was nowhere within the room. "Princess? Oh dear … not again…"


Slippered feet guided the young Twili Princess through the halls, her vermillion curls bouncing against her upper back with each step, and her amber eyes, large and sharp, glimpsing the gardens from outside the sparkling windows. While she appreciated her Nurse Maid's enthusiasm to teach her proper etiquette, in all honesty, Midna found it terribly uninteresting. It was bad enough Zant, of all people, was instructed to supervise her, an order requested by her father.

While she knew Ruth was undoubtedly in a state of shock, searching the palace top to bottom for her, Midna wanted nothing more than a short reprieve. If she could enjoy a couple hours to herself each day, without the frequent interruptions from servants and Zant most of all, then everything would fall into place smoothly. As much as she hoped for this, Midna knew her father's leniency wouldn't stretch too far.

On her trek through the halls in search of a particular person, passing servants and maids, she descended blue and intricate carpeted stairs. Eventually, her feet guided her towards the garden's entrance down a long hall embellished with many tapestries, vases and beautiful banners, the two guards stationed ahead conversing amongst themselves.

Upon her approach, they immediately quieted, their mouths turning up in genuine smiles, their upper bodies bent forward respectively. Midna smiled, acknowledging them as she passed, and entered into the gardens with a few steps.

A towering fountain, made from only the finest of stone within Twilight, black onyx, stood at a height of fifteen feet, black water spilling from its six corners. Though she saw no reflection within the fountain's base, her feet carried her across the darkened soil, her slippered feet brushing against the blackened blades of grass until she found herself walking across a stone pathway, the large trimmed hedges greeting her with every step and turn.

Though her amber eyes took in the dreary sight of the gardens, which spanned entirely around the outside palace, she stopped half way on her destination. Turning her head slowly, her eyes caught sight of numerous blackened and thorny vines spanning the outside walls, its multiple veins embellished with small budded black flowers.

Though the people referred to it as the Twili Flower, it was also known as the Devil's Flower. Despite the small red thorns accumulating its stems, its dull small bud closed and quite pitiable in appearance, it was actually a dangerous flower. In fact, it was the only flower which thrived in this world, its thorns filled with a deadly venom capable of ending a life within seconds upon touch. Despite its terrifying nature, it held a beauty within which captivated the Twili. During certain seasons within the realm, the flower would blossom, its petals revealing a mystic light, with radiance which surely brought comfort to the people.

"Will it blossom soon, I wonder?" Midna murmured.

Midna continued on across the stone walkway, eyes taking in the view of a wooden bench situated beneath a trellis. Its height shorter than the fountain, with intersecting wooden pieces, the framework beautifully carved and polished. Innocent vines were woven through each segment, many hanging loosely on the sides as she crossed beneath it, her hand lingering on the fine craftsmanship of the bench.

Midna recalled her youthful years, playing in the gardens amongst the servant children, and while many deemed it improper especially in regards to her high status, she didn't care. Whether she was running, screaming, holding the hands of others around her in her little games, not to mention swinging from the trellis alarming many of the guardsman and maids, she hadn't a single worry. In all honesty, she missed those years. Now that she reached a tender age of eleven, even the very notion of wanting to play became an obstacle. Midna was nearing adulthood, and with the ever-watchful eyes of her servants, especially her father, she realized her actions would most definitely cause misunderstanding amongst her peers.

'A princess should act accordingly. Almost a woman, and still you continue playing with the low-class in your mischievous games. Princess, you must attend to your royal duties. You're no longer a child.'

The words of Zant echoed in her mind. Midna understood royal duty this and royal duty that, but even the very thought left her feeling incomplete. Even if she didn't vocalize it, she sometimes wished she wasn't royalty. How lucky the servants must feel, not worrying about constant studying, continuing tedious conversations with strangers who'd only judge her with a minor slip of the tongue.

While consumed in her thoughts, a childish scream resounded nearby, and peering around her surroundings, Midna realized the cry came from the kitchens. The cry was most definitely one which belonged to a dear friend of hers, someone she hadn't seen for nearly three days. While she heard the nagging voice of Zant in her ear, warning her not to frolic with those of low class, Midna couldn't stop herself, her feet suddenly carrying her towards a wooden door near the large hedges across the way.

Pulling upwards on the wooden handle, Midna stepped inside, her feet carrying her down a familiar and narrow corridor. Many doors were closed tight, others left open, and as she passed each room belonging to many maids, she saw no sign of her young friend. Maids, of various ages, were tidying their small enclosed rooms, often sharing since there weren't many rooms available, others were running up and down the halls, though not surprised by Midna's presence.

Another cry resounded through the halls, this one followed after by laughter, and quickening her footsteps, her feet drawing her closer, she found herself standing before a wooden door. Ever so slowly, she pushed it open, her amber eyes taking in the sight of an adequate sized kitchen. An iron pot was bubbling over the hearth, flour and many other ingredients spread upon a large table, and two people occupying the space.

Perched upon a small wooden stool, with a rolling pin in hand, an eight-year-old little girl, with long and wild white hair, steadied herself against the flour covered table, an onslaught of giggles escaping her. "Mama, stop it!"

Sophia laughed, tickling her daughter. "That's not how you knead the dough," She teased, watching amusedly as her daughter fell over in her tittering.

"Because you keep tickling me!" The child replied, smacking her mom's hands away. "I'm serious, mama!"

Upon her child's fussing, Sophia only laughed, pulling away and straightening her apron. "Why it's quite unlike you to want to help your mother in the kitchens. And why dumplings? We had them a few days ago."

Squinting her eyes and rolling the dough with the rolling pin, her mother carefully using a knife to cut out small sections, Celeste diligently shaped the small pieces. "I wanted to make some for my friend."

A knowing smile graced the mother's lips. "Oh? Why that's very kind of you, Celeste. Is it for your imaginary friend?"

Celeste huffed, playfully waving her rolling pin at her mother. "He is not my imaginary friend. Emmett is very much real, mama!" With another huff, she turned back to her misshapen dumplings. "And they're for Midna … because Emmett doesn't like dumplings!" She sniffed suddenly, irritated by her mother's constant teasing.

Sophia nodded, taking the small misshapen dumplings into her hands before placing them gently into the bubbling water over the hearth behind her. "I'm sure she'll be thrilled." As she checked the kindling in the hearth, content it would not die out just yet, she turned to her daughter, who was carefully stepping off the stool before bending down near her. "Celeste?"

"Yes mama?" She voiced, turning bewilderedly. Before she got a response from her mother, Sophia pressed her finger upon her nose, laughing suddenly as flour smeared the child's complexion. "Mama!" Reaching into the container of flour, a small palmful in her hand, she chased her mother around the table, laughing as some of the white powder hit her backside.

Watching this, Midna stifled her own laughter, watching with amusement as the two childishly bantered in the room. It seemed Celeste was doing alright these past few days, caught up in her own duties helping her mother. While she stood there, peering through a small opening in the door, a frown suddenly graced her countenance. The love between a mother and daughter was a beautiful thing, something Midna never experienced.

Suddenly, the laughter died down, Celeste's gaze shifted past her unruly long strands of hair, towards the open doorway curiously. Upon noticing a familiar short haired girl with vermillion curls, dressed in a beautiful gown, Celeste bounded over, unable to hold back her immediately excitement. "I thought you were in the middle of your lessons?"

With the door suddenly pulled open, Midna almost fell back in surprise, blushing when she realized she'd been caught staring. "Oh … I finished early," She lied, smiling as Celeste took her flour covered hand in her own, leading her over to her mother. "I smelled something delicious, so I thought about dropping by…"

Sophia greeted the princess, bending her head respectively. "Excuse us for the mess. I'll quickly clean it up."

"It's alright. Please, continue what you were doing," Midna replied dismissively. Honestly, she didn't mind her surroundings looking like this; it was refreshing.

"Do you want to help me and mama? We're making dumplings!" Celeste excitedly replied, her hands clasped together anxiously. Hopefully Midna didn't catch on that the dumplings were for her.

Running a finger through the flour on the table, which was spilling out onto the floor, Midna flick it away. "A princess isn't supposed to work in kitchens," She responded with her head held high.

Celeste merely blinked. "Then what are you doing here?"

Sophia wanted to scold her child for speaking in such a manner, but she couldn't help but realize the two often bickered like this, teasing each other, despite their statuses. Instead, she turned away, smiling as she turned the dumplings in the bubbling pot.

Although she attempted to put on an air of nonchalance, it seemed Celeste saw straight through her. It was no mystery why she visited to the kitchens; she wanted to see Celeste and spend time with her before being whisked back to her duties. "I … well … I came to see you," Midna admitted, somewhat embarrassed.

Celeste giggled in response. "I thought so!" As much as Midna tried concealing it, her emotions were easily read by the child. "But I'm not sure if I can play right this moment … I can't leave mama to cook alone …"

Not wanting to create an air of awkwardness, Midna rolled up her sleeves, taking a piece of the dough from the table before shaping it in her palm. "Like this, right?"

Celeste's face brightened. "Yes! That's right!"


After shortly meeting with the King, Zant's legs carried him swiftly to the Dining Hall where the princess's lessons were currently taking place. He hoped, upon his return, the young child at least managed to memorize something from her Nurse Maid's lectures, but somehow, he had a suspicious feeling that wasn't the case.

After ascending the carpeted stairs and turning right down a long hallway, he arrived before the large double doors, and ever so carefully, pressed his ear to the door. Silence greeted him. Surely the lessons hadn't ended so quickly? Adamant to find out, he entered, his arms held behind his back with each step, but he paused, his crimson gaze shifting the entirety of the room. Not only was the princess missing in action, but so was her Nurse Maid.

A twitch surfaced beneath his eye, and suppressing a curse, he swiftly turned from the Dining Hall, the doors behind him slamming shut loudly. No matter where he searched, how many rooms he entered, there was no sign of either individual. Somehow, he had a suspecting notion to check the Servant's Quarters, as much as the thought irritated him.

"It wouldn't surprise me if she snuck off there, and that's a long walk on the other side of the palace," He replied, sighing as he rubbed his temples. Though given strict orders to keep Midna focused on her lessons, he should have known the minute he left the room, she would pull a stunt like this.

Descending the stairs, a few retainers following behind, Zant paused, watching as they quickly flew past him, turning right towards the Main Hall where his majesty was currently occupying. Without a word, despite their rudeness to acknowledge him, he turned left down the hall, approaching the gardens in a swift pace.

"Greetings Lord Zant!" The guards quickly and respectively replied, their heads bent.

"The princess … where is she?" Zant inquired. Noticing their hesitance to reply, he struck them a hardened glare. "What's this insolence? Tell me at once where she is."

"We saw her step into the gardens a short time ago…" One replied, nudging his friend beside him.

"Yeah. I believe she must have wanted some fresh air," The other replied just the same, his face contorted anxiously by the intimidating stature of the Royal Adviser.

Zant's expression softened. Really, he didn't understand their hesitance to speak up; it practically irritated him, but he let it slide. Without another word, he stepped past them, oblivious to the scornful stares of the guards watching him.

While the air was indeed fresh outside, the garden immaculate in appearance, he was not surprised to see it was empty of all inhabitants, even the servants. If it were empty, it only meant one thing, and that one thing shifted his gaze across the stone path towards a single wooden door. The Servant's Quarters.

"I should have known…" He replied, stalking towards the door before pulling the handle.

The sounds of feminine laughter led him down a long and narrow corridor, passing many women of various ages, some of which who paused during their short strides in favor of staring at him in curiosity. A few other girls immediately pressed their backs against the wall, fear and uncertainty held within their gazes as he passed them without a single look. Not long after his appearance, he heard the distinct sounds of hushed whisperings behind his back, and in no mood to listen, he turned down the hall until he paused before a single closed door.

The moment he opened the door, flour abruptly hit him in the face, coating his black attire in white powder. Another twitch surfaced beneath his eye as he raised his hand and removed the substance from his face. "What is the meaning of this?"

Not expecting to hear a masculine voice within the room, silence immediately followed, surprised gasps from the three occupants inside. The ladle, which Sophia was using to stir the dumplings suddenly dropped from her hand, hot water splattering upon the floor at her feet. "Lord Zant?" She cried out.

Celeste, who was sitting beside her friend, an entire handful of flour held up above her head and aimed for the princess, suddenly gasped, the flour falling in-between them. "Uh oh…" Her face flamed at the sight of Zant, and she immediately jumped to her feet, her hair flying around her as she quickly searched for a clean towel through one of the drawers.

Disgusted by the flour settling into his hair, tossed across his face and clothes, Zant took a deep breath and exhaled. When he noticed a towel suddenly held out to him by a white-haired child, whose face was concealed by messy strands, he wordlessly took it and wiped his face clean.

"I am so sorry, Lord Zant," Sophia replied, wringing her hands nervously in front of her. "It was an honest mistake."

Once his face was cleared, Zant's crimson gaze settled onto the princess, the child covered from head to toe in flour, her hair tangled. To his annoyance, she wore a smirk across her face, despite her own appearance, amusement dancing across her countenance as she stared at him. "Princess…"

Sophia ushered for her daughter to stand beside her, and after which, once again bowed apologetically to the Royal Adviser. "It was truly an accident, Lord Zant. Things got a bit carried away while my daughter and I were cooking…"

"Indeed…" Zant drawled, arching a brow as he looked between the two girls. "I should have known you would have disappeared and gone to the Servants Quarters. Your father trusted me to watch you these days so you wouldn't become distracted, but it appears I've failed."

Pulling herself to her feet and brushing the flour off her dress and sleeves, Midna merely crossed her arms, her expression revealing her ignorance. "You needn't be bothered watching over me. Whether I'm distracted or not, only concerns me, Zant. Should I want to visit Celeste and her mother, then I shall."

Upon hearing the princess's harsh words, Sophia held a hand to her mouth. She understood the young child's want to visit and play with her daughter, but she also understood it was acting against the rules. Expecting an exchange of verbal accusations, Sophia spoke up. "If I may say something—"

"Be silent," Zant replied, ignoring the older woman in spite of his annoyance for Midna this moment.

Celeste frowned, her gaze shifting to her mother, who was quietly looking down, her head still bent to the man. As much as she wanted to argue and speak truth, she kept silent, if only for her and her mother's sake.

"What will it take for you to listen and not sneak out?" Zant asked, his arms crossed similarly to Midna. "I'm willing to come to a peaceful compromise, if you are willing, princess."

Not expecting the word 'compromise' to fall from Zant's lips, Midna mused. What would it take for her to listen to him and perform her duties well? The thought was actually fairly simple. Ever so casually, she glanced over at her white-haired friend, who was awkwardly twiddling her fingers, staring between the two worriedly. "I want you to allow Celeste to join me during my studies."

Sophia and Celeste's eyes widened at this.

"You want me to?" Celeste inquired, somewhat excited and hopeful. If she were granted permission, it would certainly thrill her. Though, the very idea of joining the princess during her studies seemed almost dangerous, because only those of upper-class were granted privilege.

Zant sighed. "Now princess…"

Midna held her head high, her stare hardening. "Now Zant … you did ask to compromise, did you not? That's what I want. No if ands or buts about it." She was fairly certain Zant understood her words, because if he dared go against it, she would fight him, verbally and incessantly, going so far as to stubbornly refuse leaving this room in favor of spending time with Celeste. "Well?"

A deep sigh escaped him. There was no use arguing with her, especially in front of the servants. "Very well … For now, I will allow it," He drawled, frowning as Midna triumphantly smirked. "However, I will be speaking with your father about your behavior this afternoon."

Wonderful. While Zant didn't want to admit it, Midna almost had him wrapped around her finger, at least in this case. Pleased with this, she turned to Sophia with a gentle smile, the older woman looking between her and Zant in mild surprise. "Would you mind if your daughter joins my studies? I hope it wouldn't be intruding."

"Mama, can I?" Celeste asked, looking up hopefully at Sophia.

"Of course, princess," Sophia replied, noticing a faint smile creep upon her daughter's face. "Thank you so much for your generosity."

He cleared his throat, returning the small rag to Sophia who took it without question. "Before we make our way to the Dining Hall, it would be best to tidy yourselves up, lest you track flour all over the palace."

Waving his words away, Midna took Celeste's hand in her own and guided her towards the door and past Zant. The moment they were out of the kitchen, Midna took off in a sprint, Celeste quickly following after excitedly.

Sighing, Zant turned towards Sophia, an apologetic frown gracing his countenance. "My apologies, I did not mean to take my anger out on you…"

"Oh, it's alright. I shouldn't have overstepped my boundaries, Lord Zant," Sophia replied.

Despite her words, he raised a hand, shaking his head. "No. You were merely trying to help ease the situation." Another irritated sigh escaped him, his eyes lingering towards the open door which the two girls disappeared from. "The princess has become quite … disobedient lately. Maybe with your daughter's good influence, it might help the situation."

Sophia nodded, smiling at his words. "Thank you for saying that. I leave my daughter in your hands, Lord Zant."

With a gentle smile, he nodded his head and exited the room.

Upon his exit, Sophia released a long sigh as she leaned back. One hand was positioned over her chest, the other steadying her weight on the counter. "Oh, my goodness Celeste, you'll be the death of me yet…" When her daughter threw the flour across the room and at Lord Zant's face no less, she was sure her heart would fly out of her chest. Such an action would certainly lead to dire consequences, but she was fortunate Lord Zant did not reprimand her daughter. "I suppose under that strict exterior of his, he has a compassionate side. I do hope my daughter doesn't do anything stupid. Celeste, you've been granted something only the rest of us could hope for."

After losing Zant during their run, they darted through the halls of the main palace before arriving before the blue carpeted stairs. As they shared a knowing look, the two broke down into a fit of giggles, before making their way up the steps.

"Princess!"

A familiar voice called out from the top of the staircase, and looking up, Midna saw the face of her Nurse Maid, Ruth, her posture bent over and exhausted. Midna sweat dropped at the sight, realizing the young woman must have searched the entire palace for her after her disappearance. "There you are. I was wondering where you were."

With a hand held to her chest, Ruth couldn't help but notice the disarray and untidiness of the princess's clothes. Unkept hair, coated in a familiar white powdery substance and all over her clothes, surely left an unsettling feeling in her stomach. "Oh my goodness! Your hair … your dress…"

Midna nodded. "Indeed, which is why I've been looking all over for you. I simply cannot continue my lessons until I've bathed and redressed," Midna sarcastically remarked. "Oh, and Zant has allowed Celeste to join my studies."

"Oh dear … I'll have a bath drawn immediately."