(Part One)

Rielle’s mother was waving an envelope in her hands, yelling for Rielle to come, quickly. Rielle was standing there, smiling the way she did when curious. Little did she know, this tiny old envelope would be the end of her normal days, running errands for her single mother whenever she needed help when injured and whatnot.

“Ri, dear, we simply must get you ready, quickly! You are to meet with the royal queen at once!” Not allowing Rielle to think, her mother swiftly put some makeup on her and put some tight, clean dress, seeming like it was meant for royalty. Again, without Rielle’s intervention, her mother had already strapped her into the horse, and then rode said horse quickly, the three miles that Rielle, an eight year old, was unable to think for, for she was too dizzy.

Rushing way too fast for a young one’s mind to process, her mother once again had rushed her into the room. “Now, dear, walk slowly, clasp your hands downward, speak softly, and hope for the best.” Not able to think for herself, Rielle followed her mother’s instructions, as if she were a preprogrammed robot.

“This one is quite a beauty,” the supposed royal said. “She is also ladylike. She is more than eligible for queen selection.” The only thing that crossed Rielle’s mind was “No,” but she hadn’t said a word.

“You sweet Rielle,” the royal woman started, “I am now eighteen and unable to hold the throne. You are the last contestant of the eight year olds to take over, and you have been the best. So I propose you queen,” she said, taking off her crown and putting it on her. “You will be the most powerful woman in all the land, and that is something you should be proud of.”

“I am, miss,” Rielle silently lied.