The invitation had come sooner than expected. In the days that followed, Emma found herself in a finely adorned carriage, accompanied by Charlotte and Jill, as they traversed the lush landscapes of Corona. The royal retinue, complete with guards on horseback, followed the meandering path toward the Dawn Bridge, an ancient and majestic structure that connected the mainland to Persinet Island, where the royal family of Corona resided in the Summerfort.
As the carriage rolled along the well-maintained road, Emma's mind buzzed with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism. The purpose of this journey was clear – to meet Prince Alexander, the son of King Thomas and Queen Rapunzel of Corona, and assess whether he would be a suitable match. Emma couldn't help but ponder the prospect of a potential union.
Inside the carriage, Charlotte and Jill chattered animatedly about potential wedding plans, their excitement palpable.
"Let's not get carried away just yet," she said, a wry smile playing on her lips. "We don't know what Prince Alexander is like. He could be a royal brat for all we know."
Charlotte gasped, her eyes wide with concern.
"Oh, no, princess! Surely not. The prince of such a charming kingdom as Corona must be gallant and noble."
Jill chimed in, "And just imagine the wedding! A grand affair, with flowers and music, fit for a princess like yourself."
Emma smiled, entertained by her handmaidens' enthusiasm. "Let's reserve judgment until we meet him, shall we? I've encountered enough princes and princesses from different realms over the years to know that appearances can be deceiving."
As the carriage approached the Dawn Bridge, the magnificent structure loomed before them. Built of stone and wood, it stretched across the expanse of water, connecting the mainland to the secluded island. The sound of hooves on cobblestone echoed as the retinue came to a halt just before the bridge. The anticipation in the air was palpable.
Exiting the carriage, Emma, Charlotte, and Jill descended stone steps that led down the cliff to the beach beside the Dawn Bridge. The salty breeze from the sea played with their hair as they removed their shoes and stockings, feeling the cool sand beneath their feet. The gentle waves lapped at the shore, creating a soothing melody that complemented the serene atmosphere.
Emma gazed ahead, her eyes tracing the length of the Dawn Bridge to the distant silhouette of the Summerfort perched atop Persinet Island. The castle, surrounded by lush greenery, appeared almost otherworldly as it stood against the horizon.
"The Summerfort looks so isolated from this distance," Emma remarked, her tone pensive. "I wonder what life is like on the island."
Charlotte was busy adjusting her dress to save it from the advancing waves. Emma dipped her toes in the cool seawater.
Having enjoyed a brief respite by the beach, they eventually returned to the awaiting carriage as the sun cast its golden hues across the horizon. The anticipation in the air was palpable as Emma, Charlotte, and Jill prepared to embark on the next leg of their journey. The carriage stood ready, its ornate design reflecting the regality of its passengers. Emma, still in her elegant attire, gracefully entered first, followed by her handmaidens. Charlotte and Jill took their seats, their excitement evident in the way their eyes gleamed with anticipation.
As the carriage started its ascent toward the Dawn Bridge, the rhythmic clip-clop of hooves on cobblestone echoed through the air. Guards on horseback flanked the carriage, their presence a testament to the importance of the journey. Emma peered out of the carriage window, her gaze fixed on the approaching expanse of the Dawn Bridge. The structure, adorned with intricate carvings and banners that fluttered in the breeze, led the way to the secluded island where the Summerfort awaited.
The bridge seemed to stretch into the horizon, a path that connected two worlds – the mainland and the mystical realm of Persinet Island. Emma's mind buzzed with curiosity as the carriage slowly traversed the bridge, each passing moment bringing her closer to the heart of Corona. Inside the carriage, the air was filled with a mix of excitement and tension. Charlotte and Jill exchanged hushed whispers, speculating about the grandeur that awaited them on the other side. Emma, however, maintained a composed exterior, her thoughts a mosaic of introspection.
The rhythmic clatter of hooves on the bridge created a comforting cadence, and Emma couldn't help but steal glances at the landscape unfolding outside. The sea breeze carried with it a scent of salt and adventure, a prelude to the possibilities that awaited them. As the carriage continued its ascent, Emma caught glimpses of the sparkling water beneath the bridge. The Dawn Bridge, with its intricate stonework and wooden embellishments, seemed to weave a tale of its own.
"We're almost there," Charlotte exclaimed, her eyes wide with excitement.
Jill nodded in agreement, her enthusiasm mirroring Charlotte's.
"Just think, princess, soon you'll be visiting Prince Alexander in the splendid halls of the Summerfort."
"This is not just a visit; it's an assessment. We need to understand who Prince Alexander is and whether he aligns with the values of our realm."
Charlotte and Jill exchanged glances. The carriage continued its journey across the Dawn Bridge, and the view from the window transformed. The mainland gradually receded, giving way to the expansive sea that stretched to the horizon. The waves below danced in harmony, a reflection of the bridge's sturdy embrace. Emma's thoughts drifted to the stories she had heard about the Summerfort – its enchanting gardens, its towering spires, and the elegance befitting a royal residence. As the carriage neared the end of the bridge, the silhouette of the Summerfort emerged against the backdrop of the setting sun.
The carriage rolled onto Persinet Island, leaving the Dawn Bridge behind. The journey across the expanse had been a passage between worlds, a symbolic crossing that led Emma and her companions into the heart of Corona. As the carriage approached the Summerfort, the grandeur of the castle became more apparent. Towers reached toward the sky, and vibrant banners adorned the walls; a golden sun on purple. The courtyards, bathed in the warm glow of twilight, held an air of magic that captivated the senses. The guards on horseback led the way, guiding the carriage through the castle gates. The courtyard welcomed them with the fragrance of blooming flowers, and the distant sound of music hinted at the revelry within.
The carriage came to a graceful halt outside the entrance to the Summerfort, its wheels settling on the cobblestone courtyard. The air was filled with a sense of anticipation as Princess Emma, accompanied by her handmaidens Charlotte and Jill, prepared to step into the heart of Corona's royal residence.
As the carriage door opened, the royal servants and guards of the Summerfort greeted them with a display of regal courtesy. Dressed in rich hues of purple and gold, the guards' armor bore the sun motif, emblematic of Corona's royal banners. Emma, Charlotte, and Jill descended from the carriage, their own attire resonating with the elegance befitting the occasion.
"Princess Emma of Richilde-Elsinor, welcome to the Summerfort," announced a herald, his voice carrying through the courtyard.
The guards, with the sun emblazoned on their armor, formed an honor guard, flanking the trio as they were escorted into the castle. The grandeur of the Summerfort unfolded before them, its corridors adorned with tapestries and paintings that spoke of a rich history.
The journey through the castle revealed a different kind of opulence – one rooted in tradition and refined taste. Emma admired the intricate details of the architecture and the regal ambiance that pervaded the halls.
The procession reached the throne room, where King Thomas and Queen Rapunzel awaited. The thrones, though simple in design, exuded a timeless elegance. Gold chairs with plush purple velvet cushions provided a stark contrast to the extravagant peacock-shaped throne that Emma knew awaited her back at Ironthorn. King Thomas, with a demeanor of warmth and authority, rose from his throne.
"Princess Emma, welcome to the Summerfort. It is an honor to host you in our kingdom."
The guards, in unison, lowered their spears in a gesture of respect. Emma curtsied gracefully, acknowledging the courtesy extended to her.
"It is a pleasure to be here."
Queen Rapunzel, her black braid cascading over her shoulder, rose from her throne with a gentle smile.
"Princess, we are delighted to have you as our guest. Corona welcomes you with open arms."
The Queen's words held a sincerity that resonated with Emma. As the monarchs of the Summerfort, King Thomas and Queen Rapunzel embodied both regality and approachability.
"Thank you, Your Highness. Your hospitality is truly appreciated," Emma responded, her gaze meeting the Queen's with a mutual understanding.
King Thomas gestured toward the guest chambers. "I hope you and your companions will find comfort in the Summerfort. Prince Alexander is currently on a fishing boat out at sea, but he will return later in the day. We look forward to introducing you."
With a nod of gratitude, Emma, Charlotte, and Jill were led by the royal servants to their assigned guest chambers. The corridors whispered tales of a kingdom steeped in tradition and adorned with the artistry of time. The guest chambers, though not as opulent as those in Ironthorn, held an undeniable charm. Silken drapes framed the windows, allowing sunlight to filter through and cast a warm glow on the room's furnishings. The beds, adorned with embroidered linens, promised a respite fit for royalty.
"Oh, princess, just look at these tapestries! They tell stories of the land and its people," Charlotte, ever the enthusiast, marveled at the intricacies of the room.
"A kingdom with a rich tapestry is one that cherishes its history," Jill declared, nodded in agreement.
Carved wooden figures stood frozen on the checkered battlefield, half of them black and half of them white, each move a carefully calculated step in the game. Charlotte, perched on a nearby chair, observed with keen interest as the game unfolded between Emma and Charlotte. Their concentration, however, was interrupted by a polite knock on the door. Before they could respond, Prince Alexander entered the room, a casual but regal air about him. Emma's gaze lifted from the chessboard, and she greeted him with a nod.
"Prince Alexander, welcome. This is Jill and Charlotte, my handmaidens," Emma introduced, gesturing to each in turn.
Alexander offered a warm smile.
"A pleasure to meet you both. Princess, may I have a moment of your time?"
Emma contemplated the unfinished game on the chessboard before deciding.
"Charlotte, take my place, and let the game continue."
As Charlotte eagerly replaced Emma at the chess table, Emma joined Alexander as they left the confines of her chambers. The stone corridors of the Summerfort whispered tales of a kingdom steeped in history, and the two armed escorts trailing behind them added a solemn presence to their casual stroll.
The island unfolded before them, a tapestry of beauty woven with nature's artistry. They ventured near the cliffs, where the sea breeze carried the invigorating scent of salt. The view was breathtaking, the vast expanse of the ocean stretching into the horizon.
"This place is truly remarkable," Emma remarked, her eyes absorbing the majesty of the landscape.
"It holds a special place in my heart. There's much more to see. Would you care for a walk along the beach?"
Emma smiled, appreciating the opportunity to explore. The sun began its descent, casting a warm glow over the shoreline. As they descended the stone steps to the beach, the rhythmic melody of the waves became a soothing backdrop to their conversation. The golden hues of the evening bathed the sand in a gentle radiance. Dolphins leapt playfully in the distance, their silhouettes dancing against the canvas of the setting sun.
"I've always found solace by the sea," Alexander confessed, his eyes following the graceful arcs of the dolphins. "It's a realm of wonders, and each sunset is a testament to the magic that exists within our world."
As they strolled along the shoreline, the conversation shifted to more personal matters. Emma, ever curious, couldn't resist exploring the depths of their potential union.
"Prince Alexander, what are your thoughts on the possibility of our marriage?" Emma inquired, her gaze focused on the horizon.
Alexander considered his response carefully.
"The idea of our match was initiated by my father, King Thomas. He perceives the union as a means to solidify alliances and safeguard Corona from potential threats."
Emma furrowed her brow, puzzled by the notion.
"Threats? I cannot fathom my parents ever harboring intentions of invasion. We seek unity, not conquest."
"My father fears the combined might of Richilde and Elsinor, viewing it as a potential threat to Corona. In his eyes, a strategic alliance through marriage serves as a safeguard against any ambitions of expansion."
Emma's confusion deepened. "But my parents would never—"
"Your mother overthrew the Evil Queen and took her throne," Alexander interrupted. "My father, having witnessed the tumultuous history of your kingdoms, is cautious. He wishes to secure alliances that ensure stability and prevent the mistakes of the past from resurfacing."
"The Evil Queen was the usurper, not my mother," said Emma defensively. "She stole the throne that had belonged to my family for generations, and my mother took it back. Your father needn't worry about my parents. They have their hands full as it is."
As Emma contemplated the complexities of their potential union, her thoughts strayed to the golden statue hidden within the heart of the royal maze back at Ironthorn. The figure in the white cloak accessing a secret trapdoor beneath the statue lingered at the edges of her memory, but she pushed the image aside.
Their footsteps led them back toward the Summerfort, the fading sunlight casting long shadows across the courtyard. Alexander, sensing Emma's contemplation, gently spoke, "Emma, I understand the weight of such decisions. But know that, even amidst political considerations, there is room for genuine connection and understanding."
As they approached the castle, Alexander broached another intriguing topic.
"There's something else I wish to share with you, but it's not a subject for casual conversation. Would you be willing to join me on a visit to the depths of the Summerfort tomorrow?"
Emma, her curiosity piqued, nodded in agreement.
"Of course, Prince Alexander. What is it you wish to show me?"
"A creature, imprisoned beneath the Summerfort – a monster, as some call it. I believe you should be acquainted with every aspect of our kingdom."
"A monster? Why is it kept captive?"
"Tonight, at midnight, I'll provide the answers you seek. For now, let us join dine with the King and Queen. They'll be eager to share their perspectives on our potential union."
The lingering aroma of the sumptuous seafood feast clung to Emma as she made her way back to her guest chambers. The royal dinner with King Thomas, Queen Rapunzel, and Prince Alexander had been a culinary delight, with a spread of freshly caught delicacies from the sea. Lobster bisque, grilled fish fillets seasoned with exotic spices, and platters of succulent oysters adorned the dining table, leaving an indelible imprint on Emma's senses.
The sound of waves gently crashing against the cliffs accompanied Emma as she entered her chambers. The guest room was adorned with regal furnishings, its tapestries depicting scenes from Corona's storied history. Despite the luxurious surroundings, Emma's mind was preoccupied with thoughts of the prince's mysterious revelation – the existence of a monster beneath the Summerfort.
As she settled into bed, the moonlight filtering through the window cast a soft glow over the room. Emma's thoughts drifted to the royal maze back at Ironthorn and the golden statue of the Evil Queen that concealed a secret trapdoor. A quiet whisper of curiosity danced within her, wondering if every castle in the realm held its own family secret.
The night advanced in a gentle hush, the castle enveloped in an eerie stillness. Just as the moon reached its zenith, casting a silver sheen upon the land, Emma was roused from her sleep by a rhythmic tapping. The sound echoed through the room, drawing her attention to the balcony. In the soft glow of moonlight, Emma discerned the silhouette of Prince Alexander standing outside, tapping on the glass doors. Surprised and intrigued, she hurriedly crossed the room to open the doors.
"How did you get up here?"
"Princes in my family are skilled climbers," Alexander replied with a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Care for a late-night adventure?"
Intrigued by the prospect, Emma nodded, and they silently slipped out of her chambers. The corridors of the Summerfort were cloaked in darkness, the only illumination coming from the occasional flickering torch. Moving with stealth, they traversed the castle, descending into its hidden depths.
As they descended, Alexander told her the story of his mother, Rapunzel. Many years ago, Rapunzel had been ensnared in a tower by an evil witch, isolated from the world with neither stairs nor doors.
"Every year, the people of Corona would light a lantern and send it up into the night sky in the hopes that my mother would see them and find her way home," Alexander narrated, "She would see them from the tower, but was unable to escape. Then, one night, a powerful being known as the Dark One appeared in the tower and offered my mother a way out in exchange for something precious. My mother accepted. There was a spell on the tower preventing anyone from simply taking my mother from the tower; she had to escape herself. So, the Dark One cast a spell to make my mother's hair long enough for her to use it and climb down the tower wall."
Emma listened intently, the echoing footsteps creating a rhythm to the tale. The Dark One's magic had set Rapunzel free, but not without a cost. Alexander told her how the Dark One had demanded something precious – Rapunzel's firstborn child.
"After I was born, the Dark One arrived, seeking to claim what was promised. But my parents manage to outwit the Dark One, who was trapped below the castle, in a cell enchanted to neutralize dark magic," Alexander explained, the tone in his voice solemn.
They continued their descent, venturing through cave tunnels that wound deeper underground. The air grew colder, and the distant echo of dripping water filled the cavernous space.
"What happened next?" Emma asked, her voice barely a whisper.
"My parents were cautious, for the Dark One was not easily defeated. They've kept her imprisoned, fearing the consequences of her release."
Finally, they arrived at a barred-off area resembling stalagmites and stalactites – the Dark One's cell. As they approached the enchanted prison, a faint, ominous energy permeated the air. The stone bars formed an impenetrable barrier, and behind them lay the apparent monster that had once struck a deal with Rapunzel.
"The Dark One," Alexander whispered.
The air within the cavernous chamber seemed to thicken as Emma approached the cell. Shadows clung to the stone walls, and an eerie stillness enveloped the space. The distant echoes of dripping water provided a haunting backdrop as she peered into the darkness. As Emma's eyes adjusted, she discerned a figure slouched against the farthest corner of the cell. A woman's silhouette emerged, her features obscured by the dimness. The silence hung heavy until a voice, soft yet commanding, pierced through the darkness.
"Emma," the woman's voice resonated, carrying an unsettling familiarity. "Daughter of Snow White and her true love."
Emma's gaze darted towards the source of the voice, her eyes narrowing.
"How do you know me?"
The figure in the darkness shifted, and as if compelled by Emma's words, the woman emerged into a dim patch of light. A pale face framed by a mess of blonde hair came into view, adorned with twisted black horns. Dressed in a ragged black gown, the woman stepped forward, her pale blue eyes meeting Emma's with an intensity that sent shivers down her spine.
"You don't look like a monster," the princess remarked, her gaze scrutinizing the woman before her.
"Monster?" The woman chuckled, a dark, lilting laughter that seemed to reverberate through the cavern. "I prefer Maleficent."
"Maleficent..." Emma echoed the name. "I heard stories about you when I was a child, about a sorceress who once dwelt in the Forbidden Mountains along Richilde's northern border."
Maleficent's gaze held a certain defiance as she replied, "I found the mountains much more enjoyable than being stuck in this cave. I wasn't planning on being imprisoned for so long, you know. I thought Regina would whisk us away to a new land where my deeds would be forgotten."
"The Evil Queen? My parents vanquished her a long time ago, before I was born."
"She is not vanquished," Maleficent stated, her voice carrying a cryptic weight. "Merely trapped, much like myself, though in a different form. Have you ever heard of King Midas?"
"He turned everything he touched into gold," Alexander spoke up.
"I wasn't asking you, princeling," snarled Maleficent, and for the first time Emma saw hatred in the Dark One's eyes, yet it had faded away by the time she returned her gaze to Emma.
"I have heard stories about Midas," said the princess. "His gift became a curse, and one day he accidentally turned his own daughter into gold."
Maleficent's lips curled into a wry smile.
"A curse with a twist of irony. Last I heard, he lived alone his golden castle, roaming the halls and weeping over his gilded child."
Why is she speaking of King Midas and gold statues? Emma wondered. Then her breath caught as realization dawned.
"The gold statue of the Evil Queen in the royal maze," she whispered. "It's not a statue, is it?"
"Regina was a powerful sorceress, dear child. How do you think Snow White and Prince Charming defeated her in the first place?"
"We need to leave," Alexander said, his eyes darting nervously towards the shadows that clung to the stone walls. "The guards will come to check on her soon."
Emma nodded in agreement, her mind a whirlwind of conflicting thoughts. As they walked away from Maleficent's cell, a haunting voice called out, echoing through the damp cavern.
"Do you want to know what lies beneath your maze, princess?"
Her steps faltered. She turned, her eyes meeting those of the imprisoned sorceress.
"How do you know about that?" Emma demanded.
"I have been down there. If you wish to uncover the secrets beneath your ancestral home, you must free the Evil Queen."
Emma's brows furrowed in confusion. The very notion seemed preposterous, a dangerous proposition that could unravel the delicate balance of her kingdom. Yet, Maleficent's words lingered, stirring the dormant embers of curiosity within Emma.
"Come on, Emma," Alexander urged, breaking the spell that had momentarily bound her. "Let's go. Whatever Maleficent is suggesting, it's not worth the risk."
Emma tore her gaze away from Maleficent's cell, her thoughts a tumultuous sea of uncertainty. As they continued their ascent through the tunnels, the distant echoes of Maleficent's laughter trailed after them, a haunting reminder of the enigmatic secrets that lay dormant beneath the surface.
As they emerged into the dimly lit corridors leading back to the castle proper, Emma couldn't shake the lingering sense of unease.
"What do you think she meant?" Emma mused, glancing at Alexander's troubled expression.
"I don't know," he replied, his voice carrying a hint of concern. "But the Dark One is not to be trusted. Whatever lies beneath Ironthorn, setting the Evil Queen free doesn't sound like a solution."
Emma nodded, acknowledging the wisdom in his words. Yet, the gnawing curiosity persisted, a relentless whisper urging her to delve into the mysteries that lurked beneath the surface. As the two made their way through the corridors of the Summerfort, the Dark One's words lingered in Emma's thoughts like an uninvited guest. The distant echoes of her laughter seemed to resonate within the stone walls. They ascended the grand staircase, the subtle murmur of the waking kingdom becoming more pronounced with each step. The Summerfort, with its modest yet regal design, held a certain warmth that contrasted with the chill of the dungeons beneath them, deep in the bowels of the island.