Chapter 10: The Rules:
Odette's POV:
Iolanta was showing me around.
"My Dear Odette," says Iolanta, "to help guarantee your success..."
Iolanta: There are rules every Queen must know
For watching her kingdom grow
The keys to success
Making more from much less
Passed down from long, long ago
Observe. Chamberlain, hard at work again?
Chamberlain: Oh, Queen, those aren't meant to be seen.
Iolanta: Your talents are meant to shine
For the coronation designs
Chamberlain: Talents?
Iolanta: Yes. You're the best.
For all fashion requests. Oh yes, you have precisely what it takes to make this coronation great.
Chamberlain: Well, I suppose if I start now...
Iolanta: Rule Number One:
When you've got them reeled in
Don't let them off the hook
Watch them see it through
They may try to resist
But politely insist
And they'll find rewards
They never knew
Oh, Ferdinand.
Ferdinand: At the final feast
For all to dine
I present to you
Course nine
Odette: It's wonderful
Iolanta: Yes, respectable
Almost what you had in mind
Ferdinand: Course ten?
Iolanta: And then?
Ferdinand: How about 11?
Iolanta: I'll leave
To your discretion
Ferdinand: Oh wait, it's coming
I might be on the brink
Iolanta: I'm sure you'll be fine
Go with what you think
Ferdinand: For our grand finale
I could... Course 15, 16, 17, 18... Course 20?
Iolanta: Plenty. Thought, I am wondering, what about Course 19?
Ferdinand: We don't ever speak of Course 19!
(Awkward pause)
Iolanta: 20 it is. Rule Number 2:
When you plant the seed in need
Step back and watch it grow
An idea they think
Is completely theirs
Bears the fruit of what you sow
Odette would love peonies
To brighten her bouquet
Taisiya: Great idea
But they're not in season
Odette: Really, tulips are most okay
Iolanta: Did you search the lands
To the east?
Artyom: I couldn't find them there
Iolanta: What about north
Of the lands to the east?
Artyom: Well, no
Taisiya and Artyom: But we could look elsewhere
Iolanta: Rule Number Three:
The world is full of surprises
When you see beyond your horizons
And look here at this beautiful sight!
You nailed the color! It's just right!
Rule Number Four is simple
But is important to be heeded
Remember to always let them know
Whenever they've succeeded
Bridget: Me have secret talent too. Can me play piano for coronation?
(First, Bridget plays chopsticks, but then she plays Concerto successfully)
Iolanta: New rule. If the little lady who talks like a caveman can play, let her play.
Laventry: It's stunning! Most memorable, indeed!
Iolanta: Your vision, I'm sure, will far exceed
Never settle for less
Then simply the best
One more teeny, tiny idea that might be fun.
(Whispers)
Laventry: Out of the question! It can't be done!
Iolanta: When they hit the top
Open doors to set them free
Laventry: And afterwards, why don't I part the red sea?
Iolanta: If they say stop
You say go
Don't fight it, Laventry
You love a challenge, I know
Laventry: No, No, No
Iolanta: Show them just how brilliantly
They can glow
Laventry: But where would I begin? I haven't a clue!
Iolanta: But you're working on it even now, aren't you?
Laventry: No I'm not.
Iolanta: You are!
Laventry: I'm- I'm not sure.
Iolanta: Unlock your mind and open the door.
And watch them spread their wings and soar
Laventry: I'll do it! But how?
Iolanta: Rule Number Five: Always remember, people are happiest when they're doing something great.
Play by the rules
They'll never let you down
These five little gems
Are fit for a crown
Play by the rules
Be greater than you dare
When we walk
The path of greatness
We are walking on air
Walk the path of greatness
And you will walk on air!
Good night.
And now I'm nervous. She's putting too much pressure on everyone. I just hope this will go well.
To Be Continued
In the next chapter, Odette gets advice from her late Mother.