After returning from the tea party, Alice found herself back in her room at the palace. The White Queen had arranged this residence for her, and every time Alice opened the grand, intricately carved doors, she couldn't help but be struck by a sense of awe. The gilded and white door panels opened gently, releasing a cool, refreshing breeze that invigorated the senses. Though Alice had initially resisted staying in such a lavish room, the White Queen insisted that, as the champion who had saved Wonderland, she deserved such accommodations, leaving Alice unable to decline.
The room was spacious and bright, with ceilings that seemed to stretch toward the heavens, surrounded by delicate engravings. A crystal chandelier hung from the center of the ceiling, its countless glass prisms refracting the soft glow of candlelight into a kaleidoscope of colors. Plush carpets cushioned her footsteps, making her feel as if she were walking on clouds. The curtains were made of the finest velvet, their deep blue satin shimmering like a dream in the sunlight. Beyond the enormous floor-to-ceiling windows lay the mesmerizing view of the royal gardens.
In one corner of the room, Alice had arranged several books she had borrowed from the palace library about Wonderland. Though she now lived in a fantastical world filled with adventure and wonder, her thirst for knowledge had not diminished. Even during "summer vacation," she believed in the importance of learning. The books were thick and ancient, their covers weathered with time, emitting the faint scent of old paper. She carefully turned the pages of one, meticulously studying the history of Wonderland, the legends of time fractures, and the mysteries of the Maze Garden.
As Alice became absorbed in her reading, a gentle knock sounded at the door. Tarrant's voice, carrying a note of excitement, called out, "Alice, can I come in?"
"Please come in, Tarrant," Alice replied with a smile, placing her book back on the table.
When Tarrant stepped inside, he was momentarily stunned by the opulence of the room. Although he frequented the palace, he had never entered Alice's private chambers, which were far more splendid than he had imagined.
His gaze swept across the room—from the crystal chandelier to the ornate paintings and the luxurious carpet beneath his feet. Every detail spoke of unmatched craftsmanship and elegance. He couldn't help but exclaim, "This room is truly magnificent. Even the top craftsmen in our Wonderland could not achieve such exquisite artistry."
Tarrant held a beautifully crafted box in his hands, which contained the ball gowns he had personally designed for Alice and the two queens. He excitedly placed the box in front of Alice, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. "The White Queen invites you to tonight's welcome ball, and I have prepared a special dress for you. I hope you will like it."
Alice gently opened the box and was immediately captivated by the gown inside. Made of the lightest tulle, the layers of the skirt cascaded like mist, adorned with intricate embroidery and delicate beadwork. Every stitch showcased Tarrant's unrivaled craftsmanship. The gown shimmered softly in the light, as if it could transform her into a fairy from a dream.
"It's so beautiful, Tarrant," Alice murmured in admiration, her eyes shining with genuine appreciation. "Did you really make such a special dress for me?"
Tarrant smiled, his joy evident. "Of course! I also designed gowns for both the White Queen and the Red Queen, but yours had to be different." He grew slightly bashful as he spoke, his smile becoming more reserved.
Alice smiled back, her fingers gently tracing the gown's silky fabric. The exquisite texture left her speechless.
Tarrant's eyes fell on the stack of books on Alice's desk, and he raised an eyebrow. "You're still reading at a time like this? Studying the history of Wonderland?"
Alice nodded with a soft smile. "Yes, even though it's my summer vacation, I think it's important to keep learning. I want to understand more about this world, especially the secrets of the Maze Garden."
Tarrant's face softened with admiration. "You are always so diligent," he said, pausing for a moment before adding, "But tonight, let's focus on enjoying the ball to the fullest. Tomorrow's adventure can wait for tomorrow. Tonight belongs to us."
They exchanged a knowing smile, the excitement of the upcoming ball filling the air. Alice, remembering his signature Futterwacken dance, asked with a playful glint in her eye, "Can I see your Futterwacken dance tonight?"
Tarrant laughed with delight. "Dear lady, if you are looking forward to it!" He made an exaggerated bow and struck a playful dance pose before quickly returning to his usual stance, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "I will do my best not to disappoint you."
Alice chuckled softly, her heart full of anticipation. She knew that Tarrant's dance was always full of creativity and surprises, just like him—never one to follow the ordinary path.