25 - Preparations

Today was the day she would go to the castle and meet the royal family. Her mother had excitedly picked a dress for her. A vivid blue dress with a gold sash around her waist, it made her pale skin and red hair stand out. The maids curled her hair in a loose bun with the rest of the curls over her shoulder, blue gold ribbon interlacing. It made her look mature.

She had also worn her necklace with the blue teardrop. After the dressing, she was rushed into the carriage that would take her there. Her mother wore a matching color dress and smiled warmly at her. "Don't be nervous, Anemone. The queen will definitely love you," she assured.

"Why would she love me?" she asked, curious. She had never met the queen before. Her mother only smiled secretively at her, not answering. Anemone turned to look out the window. She watched as the townhouses passing by change to trees. The castle was built in the middle of the city.

Surrounding the castle was a forest. The middle of the forests flowed a huge river. There were only four bridges to get into the castle. Each bridge has a fortified tower that must be passed. Once they pass the river and forests, a huge meadow stretched before reaching the castle.

When she saw the castle, she couldn't help but gasped in astonishment. It was way bigger than her manor or anything she had seen. It was made with white brick and the roofed towers were blue. As the carriage stopped at the main entrance, she noticed so many flowers and greenery everywhere.

As she was helped out, she made sure not to trip. A maid greeted them and gestured the way in. As they walked in, Anemone looked up at the huge walls. They were filled with statues and tapestries. They soon stopped at a door that opened for them. The maid went through a brief explanation of etiquette needing to be followed.

They were then ushered in. Anemone's mother took her hand and walked forward. The room was expansive with tall white columns. Windows with colored glass streamed little Ray's of sunlight. Near the end of the room was a small stair step leading to a throne.

A woman with long curly blonde hair stood in front of the throne. Her blue eyes seemed to sparkle and her beautiful smile made her look kind and benevolent. Anemone thought she truly was beautiful. She reminded her of the Fairy Prince. Her heart pounded at the sudden thought.

As they neared, she curtsied with her mother. Her mother was introducing themselves to her and telling her this was the queen. The queen turned to look at her, her gaze studying everything. Anemone looked at the ground nervously. "Bring her closer," she heard the queen said.

One of the maids took her arm and brought her closer. Anemone looked at her mother who nodded reassuringly. Stepping closer, the queen took her hand. Anemone felt her cheeks flush with color as being so close to someone so beautiful. The queen lifted Anemone's chin up and stared intently.

"Oh, Rose! You are right! She does look like our favorite flower!"