Chapter 2

“What’s going on here?” Trixie asked, turning to look at the man.

The man got to his feet and made his way toward her. He stopped in front of her and leaned in close to her face. “You will not speak unless spoken too.”

Trixie stared at him. She trusted her instinct on first impressions and knew these two were trouble. She remained quiet so as to not be subjected to his wrath.

“It is amazing,” he said as he leaned back. “Maybe there is something to an American education.”

“Darling, she is here now,” the woman said. “Can’t we just get this over with?”

“All in due time, my queen,” he said. “We will get our place in history very soon.”

“It better be soon, Ethan,” the woman grumbled.

“Now, Beatrix, please hand over your bag and you may spend some time with your parents before the festivities begin.”

Trixie glanced at her parents who nodded, encouraging her to do as she was told. She slid her bag off her shoulder and handed it over.

“Any cell phones?”

Trixie shook her head.

“Good.” He looked past Trixie. “They can be escorted to their room for some family bonding.”

“Yes, your majesty.”

Trixie turned to see her parents hurrying to her side. Her mother took her hand while her father placed a hand on her shoulder.

Entering the hall, Trixie saw that there were several more men at attention. They were quickly surrounded by the men and led away from the study. They reached a stairwell and descended into the darkness. Single light bulbs adorned the wall about every 20 feet.

They continued on, deeper into the darkness until they made their way along a dirt floor surrounded by stone walls.

The guards finally stopped and Trixie could hear the creak of metal opening.

“In,” a voice said.

Trixie’s mother led her inside the dimly lit cell. Once they cleared the door, it was slammed shut.

She turned to face them, but remained silent when her mother held her index finger to her lips. They listened as the guards went back the way they came.

Her father moved to the cell door and looked down the passageway. He turned to them when the sound of footsteps were gone.

“We are so sorry,” he said.

“What’s going on?” Trixie asked.

“Let’s get the introductions over with first,” her father said. “I am William.”

“I am Penelope,” her mother said. “You are more beautiful that I ever imagined.”

Trixie could feel the color rising in her cheeks even if it couldn’t be seen in the light bathing the cell.

“Here. Let’s sit and we’ll try to explain everything,” Penelope said.

They three of them moved over to a single cot and sat down on the threadbare blanket.

Trixie faced her parents, anxious for answers.

Penelope took Trixie’s hands in her own. “You know that we left you with the Beldens to protect you from the trouble here in our country.”

“I know,” Trixie said. “That’s what Moms, I mean Helen, said.”

“It’s all right if you still want to call her Moms,” Penelope said. “I understand that you have a deep bond with her and I wouldn’t want you to do anything to lose that.”

“We are eternally grateful they could give you a normal childhood, trying new things and having fun,” William said.

“And keeping you safe from danger,” Penelope added.

Trixie remained quiet knowing this was not the time to tell her parents about the mysteries she had solved.

“So, I assume those who wanted to take over the country are related to those two upstairs?”

“They arrived her about a week ago,” Penelope said. “They got into the palace and quickly took over. We’ve been down here ever since.”

“Hasn’t anyone realized that they aren’t you?” Trixie asked.

“When we’ve had to make appearances or talk to someone, they take one of us to handle whatever it is,” William explained.

“And whoever goes up is probably warned no funny stuff or the other will be injured, right?” Trixie concluded.

Penelope nodded. “We were also warned that if we said something to you and you didn’t come, they would go find you and kill you, as well as the people you were staying with.”

Trixie closed her eyes realizing just how bad the situation was. She was also certain when they were no longer needed, they’d be disposed of.

“What’s the plan?” Trixie asked.

“There will be a ball in a couple weeks to celebrate your 16^th birthday where we will renounce our claim to the title of King, Queen and future Queen and pass the leadership onto them,” William said.

“Then they become royalty and we are banished,” Penelope said, trying to fight back the tears.

Trixie opened her eyes and saw William was trying to comfort her.

Trixie felt badly that this was happening. Penelope and William were going to lose everything. And there was nothing she could do.

For several hours, the three of them sat in silence, unsure of what to say. Each of them was lost in his or her own thoughts of what was to come.

Trixie didn’t want to sit and let things just happen, but she really didn’t know what she could accomplish locked in a cell. She didn’t know the layout of the palace or the neighboring countryside. If she got away, the guards would catch her.

She leaned forward and placed her head in her hands. This was turning out worse than she’d expected. She had not wanted to come in the first place and now look what was happening. Her birth parents were losing their home, lifestyle and title.

She knew if she had not come, these people would have sought her out and killed not only her, but the family she loved dearly.

It just didn’t seem fair or right. She knew something needed to be done, but her mind was blank. This situation was worse than any mystery. She longed to be back in Sleepyside.

“Wake up,” a voice said, forcing Trixie to lift her head and blink in the darkness. A light was shined in her face making her wince.

“I said come.”

Trixie stood up and felt Penelope take her hand. She looked at her and William, offering them both a small smile.

They released her hand and she made her way toward the cell door. Once in the hallway, the door was slammed shut. She was ushered back the way they had come earlier.

They soon returned to the study and she saw Ethan was alone, sitting behind the cherry desk. There were numerous papers strewn in front of him.

Trixie remained quiet until he was ready to talk to her, recalling his earlier warning.

After a few minutes he lifted his head. “If I had know the trouble you would cause, I would’ve taken care of you before making my way here.”

Trixie watched him, unsure of what he was talking about.

He leaned back in the chair, propping his left elbow on the arm as he tapped his chin with his index finger.

“You see, there was just a phone call for you from the States.”

Trixie refrained from groaning. She knew she was supposed to call her Sleepyside parents to let them know she had arrived safely. But with everything that had happened, she had not been able to do as promised.

“And they left a message for you to call when you got the chance,” Ethan said. “And you are going to do that now. I will be listening. Should you give anything away, you will be punished.”

From the look on this face, Trixie knew he was serious.

“Go ahead and take the phone.”

Trixie picked the phone up and watched as Ethan began dialing. She listened as the phone rang and a moment later, a familiar voice said, “Crabapple Farm.”

“Moms?”

“Trixie?”

“It’s me, Moms.”

“Oh, Trixie. It’s so good to hear your voice.”

“I’m sorry I didn’t call you sooner,” Trixie said.

“That’s okay,” Helen said. “You were probably getting acquainted with your parents.”

“I was,” Trixie admitted.

“And how are they doing?”

“They’re fine.”

“Is there something wrong?” Helen asked slowly.

Trixie lowered her eyes a little. “Nothings wrong. I just miss all of you. Life is so much different here.”

“Life is different here, too,” Helen admitted.

“How is everyone doing?”

“Everyone is fine. We’re just missing you.”

“I so wish all of you were here,” Trixie said.

“I think this is something you had to do on your own,” Helen said.

“You know, I have an idea,” Trixie said.

“What’s that?”

“Why don’t you, Dad and the boys all come her next month,” Trixie said and heard Ethan gasp. “There is a ball celebrating my 16^th birthday and I would love for you to see Penelope and William again.”

Trixie could see Ethan from the corner of her eyes shaking his head and mouthing, “No.”

“Do you really want us to come?” Helen asked. “I mean, are you sure? You just got there and are getting to know your parents.”

“I want you all here,” Trixie said. “Bring the Wheelers and Jim, Di and the Lynch’s, as well as Dan. It is a ball so everyone will need to be dressed up, but we can take care of that when you get here.”

“I’ll talk to Peter and give you a definite answer the next time we talk,” Helen said.

“I should have all the details then” Trixie said.

“All right,” Helen said. “I’ll talk to you soon.”

“Bye, Moms.”

“Bye, Trixie.”

As Trixie set the phone receiver down, she saw Ethan slam his extension down.

“What are you doing?” Ethan demanded.

“The ball that is planned for my 16^th birthday is for me and I want my friends to be in attendance,” Trixie answered. “You may get the crown after the party, but I am Princess Beatrix until that time and will invite who I want to the ball.” She quirked an eyebrow at Ethan. “Unless you want to call them back and tell them what is really happening.” Trixie leaned back in the chair. “The choice is yours.”

Trixie watched Ethan stand up and begin pacing the study. She knew she had caught him off guard. She hoped he would go for it.

Ethan stopped and turned to face her. “You are ruining everything.”

Trixie remained quiet.

“Fine,” Ethan said. “You can have your moment, but it will be short.” He waved his hand. “Get out of here.”

Trixie quickly left the study with the guards and was returned to the cell.

Upon entering, William and Penelope looked at her. Trixie could see the worry on their faces.

“I’m okay,” Trixie said.

“What happened?” Penelope asked.

“I had to call Sleepyside,” Trixie answered. “I was supposed to call them when I got here, just so they knew I arrived safely. But because I didn’t, they called here.”

“Oh, no,” Penelope said, putting a hand to her mouth.

“Ethan must be furious,” William said.

“He wasn’t then, but he is now,” Trixie said with a grin.

“Beatrix, what have you done?” Penelope asked, making Trixie wince at her given name.

She knew she was going to have to get used to hearing her real name.

“Ethan is not one to be messed with,” William said. “He’s ruthless.”

“He may be ruthless, but he doesn’t know what I’m capable of,” Trixie said.

“What have you done?” Penelope asked again.

“Well, when I was talking with Moms, I invited her and all the Beldens, along with the Wheelers and Lynchs, and my closest friends to come to the ball.”

“You invited them?” William asked.

“Of course,” Trixie said. “You said this ball was to celebrate my birthday and since it is for me, I thought it would be nice for my friends to come so you can meet the people who are very dear to me.” Trixie looked at the floor. “Unless you don’t want to meet them.”

Penelope quickly got to her feet and moved over to Trixie. She pulled her into a hug. “Of course we want to meet your friends. I just don’t think Ethan will allow it.”

“He is,” Trixie said.

“What?” William and Penelope asked.

“It’s true,” Trixie said. “Let’s sit down and I will explain.”

Once they were settled, Trixie explained what the conversation with Helen entailed and Ethan’s response.

“I can’t believe he went for it,” William said.

“I think he understands he’s not king yet, and that he really doesn’t know what I would do. And because I’m an unknown factor, he doesn’t want to do anything to upset me.”

“While all of this is well and good, Ethan is not going to allow us to keep our titles,” William said. “Even Clarissa will devise a way to get the crown.”

“Just because they want it doesn’t mean they are going to get it,” Trixie said. “That’s what a lot of criminals think before they are caught.”

“Criminals?” Penelope asked.

“How would you know about criminals?” William asked.

“Ummm, what has Moms been saying I’ve been doing these last few years?” Trixie asked, getting the impression Moms had not told them about her mystery escapades.

“She told us you’ve been on trips to different parts of the country and world with your friends,” Penelope said.

“Yeah,” Trixie said. “We’ve gone to a lot of places. But a lot of the times when we were on th0se trips, I solved a mystery.”

“I enjoy reading mysteries, too,” Penelope said. “It’s so much fun to find the clues and put everything together.”

“I wasn’t reading mysteries,” Trixie said.

“You can’t mean you were solving them like a detective,” William said. “You’re only a teenager.”

“I honestly didn’t search out the mysteries,” Trixie said quickly. “It just seemed to happen whenever we were on a trip, and it happened a lot back home.”

“That had to be dangerous,” Penelope said.

“There were times it was dangerous, but everything turned out in fine the end.”

“Peter and Helen never said a word,” William said.

“They probably didn’t want to worry you,” Trixie said. “I think I added a few gray hairs to their heads from worry.”

“And so because of all your mystery solving, you think this will work?” William asked.

“I think Ethan knows he really can’t do anything until you give up the throne and title,” Trixie said. “He has to go with the plans that have already been made, including the ball.”

“But what are we going to do?” Penelope asked.

“I need to let the Beldens know all the details about the ball, as well as making sure there are gowns for the girls and tuxedos for the guys. We can’t do that if we are in here. They are going to have to let us out.”

“But that won’t change what will be happening,” William said.

“You don’t know what my friends and I are capable of,” Trixie said. “Any challenge that has come our way, we have been able to find a solution to help a lot of people. Nothing ever stops us.”

“But what can you do?” Penelope asked.

“I’m not sure yet, but I know once they all get here, we will figure something out.”

“I hope you’re right,” Penelope said. “But I fear what Ethan might do. He is ruthless.”

“And holds a grudge,” William said.

“I know how ruthless people can be. They can only think of revenge when they feel they deserve something, but don’t get it.”

“I’m just worried this is all going to blow up in our faces,” William said.

“We need to try or Ethan and Clarissa will win,” Trixie said.  “Do you really think the two of them would be welcomed by the citizens if they knew what the two of them were trying to do?”

“We just need to be careful,” William said. “We just got your back. We don’t want anything to happen to you.”

“I will do my best to make sure that doesn’t happen,” Trixie said.

“So, if this is going to work, what do we need to do?” Penelope asked.

“I need to know everything that has been planned for the ball,” Trixie said. “I need to be prepared the next time I have to go see him.”

“Everything?” William asked.

“Everything,” Trixie said. “Including any traditions that I’m to carry out during the ball.”

“There is one tradition that you need to take care of at the ball,” Penelope said, glancing at William. “But given our circumstances, we can probably bypass it.”

“We can’t bypass anything,” Trixie said. “If we do, then everyone in attendance will know something is up.”

“There is something that is really significant,” William said.

“All the more reason to have it happen,” Trixie said. “So, what is it?”

Penelope and William exchanged a look. Then they turned their attention to Trixie.

Penelope took a breath. “As the evening draws to a close, you will have a dance with the man who will sit at your side as you rule.”

“So, are you saying that I can find this person and when I do, this song will be played signaling this is going to be my fiancé?” Trixie asked, utterly confused and shocked.

“Unfortunately, that is not how it works,” William said. “Since you weren’t betrothed at birth, this ball will signify who you will marry. You will not have any notice as to when the song will occur. But when it does, the person you are dancing with will be your future husband.”

“I don’t have any say in this?” Trixie asked.

“Unfortunately, no,” Penelope said. “This is a tradition and we have to follow protocol.”

Trixie leaned forward, placed her elbows on her knees and buried her face in her hands. She was going to be engaged at 16. That was so 19^th century. And she feared she would end up with someone who would drive her crazy.

Why this? She wondered silently. Why does this have to be a tradition? This is just going to make me miserable for the rest of my life. And now it seems as if I am the prize in a game of musical chairs where the lucky winner is the one who ends dancing with me at the right time. How much more complicated can my life get?

But this is my life now. Things that I expected to happen, won’t, because that is not who I am. Trixie Belden no longer exists. Princess Beatrix does and she has a responsibility to the people to act as one and follow the traditions set forth for generations.

It will take a lot of getting used to, but I have to swallow my fears and do what is expected.

Taking a breath, Trixie sat up and looked at her parents. “What will I need to do?”

Penelope smiled at began to relate the duties she was responsible for as Princess.

Over the course of the next week, the time in the cell was passed with William and Penelope passing along the different things that went on in their lives leading up to Trixie’s return.

In response, Trixie shared her time growing up in Sleepyside with Brian, Mart and Bobby. She told them all about the club that was formed when she was 13 and the four friends she had met and held dear to her heart. She shared her first true adventure in the search for Jim.

By the end of the week, Trixie had noticed that Penelope and William were spending more time sleeping than talking. She had a feeling they had been stuck in the dungeon for a while before her return and was quite certain it was taking its toll on them both.

When they were brought their single meal of the day, Trixie gave them some of what was on her plate claiming it was food she really didn’t like and she didn’t see a point in letting it go to waste. They tried to protest, but in the end, they thanked her and finished what they could. Seeing her parents growing weaker as each day progressed gave Trixie more determination to make sure that Ethan and Clarissa were unable to succeed with their plan.

It was late and the three occupants in the cell were resting. It was hard to tell if it was day or night since there were no windows in the cell. Trixie was the first to hear the footsteps making their way toward them. She glanced at her watch and knew it was too early for their meal to be arriving. She reached up to the cot and gently shook her parents’ arms. They sat up after a moment and they all looked at the door.

It finally opened and a voice said, “Come.”

They all got to their feet and Trixie saw Penelope was unsteady. William reached over and wrapped his arm around her, to guide her steps as they followed the guard.

Within a short while they returned to the main floor and blinked about the brightness, shielding their eyes, since they really had no light in the dungeon. They were led into the study and saw Ethan sitting in the leather chair once again.

He watched them enter and Trixie wished she could read his eyes.

“The plans for the ball are well underway,” Ethan said. “We will escort both of you ladies to the upstairs fitting room as several seamstresses will be here to make sure you have the perfect ball gowns for the evening.”

Ethan looked at William. “You will stay here with me and deal with some paperwork that needs your signature. When that is completed, you will return to the dungeon.”

With a nod to the guards, Trixie and Penelope exited the study and made their way up the marble staircase that was behind the study. They went into a large sitting room that had several full-length mirrors lined up together with a two-foot pedestal near them. There was a blue couch in the room and Trixie led Penelope over to it.

“Just sit and relax,” Trixie said. “I can help the seamstresses get our measurements.”

“I hope they can make you a beautiful gown for the ball,” Penelope said.

“If they have made gowns before, I think it will be just perfect,” Trixie said. “Does the gown have to be any specific color?”

“Usually the gown for your 16^th birthday should be white,” Penelope said. “It is a sign of adulthood. But it is not all white. Usually there is a bit of color mixed in.”

“Like what color?” Trixie asked.

“What is your favorite color?”

“I love blue,” Trixie admitted. “That always seemed to be the best color on me, at least that’s what Honey and Di always said.”

“Then we will make sure there is some blue in your dress,”

“If you want me to wear a different color, I can,” Trixie said. “It doesn’t have to be blue.”

“I think blue will look marvelous on you,” Penelope said. “I also have a few older ball gowns here that you could try on before we decide what will look best.”

“All right,” Trixie said.

There was a knock on the door and in a moment it opened, revealing three seamstresses. They came into the room and bowed in front of Trixie and Penelope.

“Good day, your majesty,” said the first. “It is an honor to work on your ball gowns.”

“Thank you, Muriel,” Penelope said. “I would like you to start with her gown. I have a few in the closet and would like to see them on her to see if any of the styles are adequate.”

“That is fine, your majesty.” Muriel signaled the two other women to go to the closet to retrieve the gowns.

Within minutes Trixie had the first gown and was fighting to not fidget in the uncomfortable fabric. The light green dress was really tight fitting, almost cutting off Trixie’s air. It had a tight bodice, with ribbon criss-crossing down the front, almost making her chest bigger than it was. The skirt flared out and Trixie wondered how anyone could ever wear anything like this.

Trixie turned to look at Penelope and saw she was staring at her with a critical eye.

Penelope looked at Muriel. “I don’t think this is the appropriate color, fit or style for her. Let’s try the next one.”

“Yes, your majesty.”

Trixie quickly slipped out of the first gown and was helped into the second which had puffy red sleeves and a red bodice and skirt. The skirt was similar to one she had worn to a sock hop at school one year. The red bodice went all the way up to her neck and seemed to choke her.

She turned once again and could see the disapproval on Penelope’s face. “I don’t like this one either. Red is definitely a color she should not wear.”

“We will have her try another one, your majesty.”

Trixie switched to the third dress, which was made of a pale yellow. It was a simple a-line dress with three spaghetti straps over her shoulders. The top seemed to hug her body perfectly without being too ostentatious. The skirt hugged her hips and then hung down to her ankles. There was not a lot of flare. It was very elegant and when Trixie looked in the mirror, she thought this was the right one.

Turning on the platform, she looked at Penelope and saw that she was eyeing the dress more critically than she had any of the others. “Please turn slowly in the dress.”

Trixie did as requested. When she was finally all the way around, she saw Penelope was sitting up straighter and was smiling.

“Well?” Trixie asked after a moment.

“Muriel, I believe we have found the most perfect dress,” Penelope said. “You are aware that this dress should be white. But I think we need to add some accents to it to make it more beautiful.”

“Is there something you had in mind, your majesty?” Muriel asked.

“I think there needs to be some blue,” Penelope said. “I’m not exactly sure where, but there needs to be some blue. Not too much, but some that will set this dress apart from anything else that may be out there.”

“I can see what I can do, your majesty,” Muriel said. “Once we get her measurements, I will go make a few sketches and see which ones you prefer. I agree that adding some color to the dress will make it even more exquisite.”

“I don’t want it very bright, but subtle,” Penelope said.

“We understand, your majesty,” Muriel said.

“Good,” Penelope said.

Trixie stood still as the seamstresses took her measurements. She was patient and felt confident that when the dress was finished, it would look absolutely spectacular.

Once she changed back into her own clothes, Trixie sat beside Penelope as she explained about the other ball gowns that would be needed. Penelope explained she would get the measurements and provide them to her. With Trixie’s help, she explained the color schemes they were looking at for the people who were coming to the ball. Muriel said she would come up with some special designs for them as well and would bring them back for the Queen’s approval.

With the business completed, the seamstresses bid farewell to them and left the sitting room.

Alone, Trixie moved over to one of the windows and gazed out into the garden, which seemed to stretch for miles at the rear of palace. There appeared to be a maze of bushes and there were tons of roses blooming everywhere. It looked absolutely beautiful.

“Do you really think this will be all right?” Penelope asked.

Trixie turned to look at her mother. “I think that if we don’t try something, then there is no chance. But you have to have faith and trust that when things start happening, it will go in our favor.”

“I trust you,” Penelope said.

Trixie hoped she wouldn’t let them down.

Trixie, Penelope and William were kept in the dungeon for most of the days over the following three weeks. They were taken out from time to time to deal with matters for the ball. They knew that some would not accept anything Ethan or Clarissa said, so they were the only ones who could give orders.

Trixie spoke to Helen a couple times and was able to get the measurements for everyone so that the gowns could be made for the girls and the right size tuxedos would be on hand for the men. It seemed as if everything was falling into place for the ball.

They were taken from the dungeon once again and entered the study. They were all tired and weak, having spent so much time in the darkness with a minimal amount of food. They knew their guests were close to arriving and that their time in the darkness would be coming to an end for a short period of time.

They stepped into the study and Ethan was pacing.

“We have received word that your guests from America have arrived and are on their way here,” Ethan said. “As you wanted, rooms have been prepared for all of them.” He looked at Trixie. “Remember, you are not allowed to leave the grounds, even if they want you to join them. Should you disobey, the repercussions will be severe. Do you understand?”

“Yes, sir,” Trixie replied.

“Good,” Ethan said. “You will be taken to your room right now. You should probably freshen up before their arrival. When they get here, we will come and get you.”

They made their way up to their rooms and Trixie was surprised at the splendor of her quarters. The room was beautiful with the walls painted a light blue. There was a small sitting room that she entered first with white furniture covered with blue padding. The curtains were the same shade of blue. The area with her bed had a beautiful blue comforter and numerous pillows of varying shades. Her dresser and beside tables were white with blue accents. This felt right for her.

Trixie stepped into her personal bathroom and saw the walls were covered with blue ceramic tile. There was a Jacuzzi tub as well as a shower. She had never seen anything so magnificent.

Within a short while, Trixie had showered and changed into clean clothes. She spent time brushing her hair. She stood in front of her mirror gazing at her reflection. There were bags under her eyes and she looked much thinner than when she left Sleepyside. She knew Helen would question her health. Luckily, she and Penelope had agreed that they would tell Helen that she was having trouble adjusting to the new cuisine and that after a while her body was not rebelling.

Trixie moved over to the window and was surprised to see she had a small balcony outside the French doors. She opened the doors and stepped out onto the balcony, taking a deep breath of the fresh air. She closed her eyes and took in the scents of all the flowers that seemed to add color to the grounds. She couldn’t wait to explore the gardens and knew that with her friends there, she would finally be able to get outside.

Knock, knock.

Trixie stepped back into her room and said, “Come in.”

The door opened and one of the guards stood there. “Princess Beatrix, your guests have arrived.”

“Thank you,” Trixie said.

She stepped out of the room and made her way down to the first floor. She heard familiar voices coming from the room at the bottom of the stairs. She stepped toward the doorway and stopped, a grin filling her face.

Sitting in the antique chairs and sofas, were the Beldens, Lynchs and Wheelers. Standing over near the ornate marble fireplace that had a painting of William and Penelope above it were Jim Frayne and Dan Mangan. She felt her heart swell at seeing all those that she loved in her home.

She watched them talk quietly amongst themselves. She watched as Jim and Dan turned away from the portrait and the smiles that filled their faces when they saw her. They both bowed and said, “Hello, your majesty.”

The others turned and a gasp erupted from all of them. Helen was the first to her feet and at Trixie’s side. “Oh, Trixie,” Helen said, holding her tight. “You don’t know how much I’ve missed you.”

“I’ve missed you too,” Trixie said, returning the embrace.

“Are you all right?” Helen asked, leaning back and looking over her with a critical eye. “You look tired. Have you lost weight?”

“I’m okay,” Trixie said. “I’ve been having trouble adjusting to the local cuisine. But I’m getting better.”

“Are you sure?” Helen asked.

“I’m sure,” Trixie said.

She turned to the others and greeted all of them in turn. She hugged them all and thanked them dearly for coming to the ball.

“I’m so thrilled all of you are here to help celebrate this momentous occasion with me,” Trixie said.

“We are thrilled to be here,” Peter said.

“Thank you for including us,” Matthew Wheeler said, wrapping his arm around his wife’s shoulder.

“And us as well,” Margaret Lynch said.

“I’m just glad all of you could come,” Trixie said.

“Are Penelope and William around?” Helen asked.

“They are taking care of some business and will meet us for dinner in the dining room,” Trixie said. “You’re all probably tired from the trip. I’ll have someone show you to your rooms.”

“Thank you,” Peter said.

Trixie signaled a couple members of the staff who were waiting in the hall. They stepped forward and their guests quickly followed them out of the room. Trixie watched as Jim and Dan stayed where they were.

“How are you guys doing?” Trixie asked, looking at them.

“We’re okay,” Dan said. “But are you?”

“Yeah, Trix, you really look pale,” Jim said. “Have you been out of here at all?”

Trixie smiled. “Yes, I’ve been out of here. It’s just been a lot to learn and to deal with now that I am here. I never knew there was so much to the role I need to play.”

“How is that coming?” Jim asked, moving over to her with Dan.

“It’s coming. There is a lot to learn and know, but I just keep taking it all in. It’s going to take me a while to remember everything, but I think in time I will have it mastered.”

“That’s good to hear,” Dan said.

“Come on,” Trixie said. “Let me show you where you will be bunking while you are here.”

“Lead the way,” Jim said.

They exited the sitting room and Trixie saw Ethan standing in one of the doorways. She continued to the stairway and then up to the second floor. They went down the hall and Trixie stopped by a room. “You two are in here.”

Jim reached for the doorknob and opened the door. They stepped into the room and stared in amazement.

“We’re staying here?” Dan asked.

“Is it all right?” Trixie asked, stepping into the room to see if there was something wrong.

“This place is humungous,” Dan said.

“I hope it has all you need,” Trixie said.

“Excuse me, Princess Beatrix?” Trixie turned to see Ethan standing in the doorway.

“Yes?” Trixie asked.

“The King and Queen need to speak with you,” Ethan said.

“Thank you,” Trixie said. “I will go to them right now.” She looked at Dan and Jim. “I’ll see you both at dinner.”

“Bye, Trix,” Dan said.

She left the room and made her way down the hall with Ethan walking right behind her. Ethan whispered as they made their way up the stairs, “Remember what I said. If you don’t behave, you will not like what I will do.”

“I understand,” Trixie said.

She continued on her way and reached her parents suite. She knocked on the door and was allowed in after a moment. She was surprised to see Penelope stretched out on the bed and William sitting next to her, holding her hand.

Trixie hurried over to them. “What’s going on?”

“I’m okay,” Penelope said weakly.

Trixie looked at William, fearing there was more going on than she was telling.

“She had a fainting spell a little while ago,” William said.

“Are you going to be all right?” Trixie asked.

“I’ll be fine.”

“William?” Trixie pressed.

“I think she has been without enough nutrients for a while and it is affecting her health,” William said.

“Is there anything I can do?” Trixie asked.

“She just needs to take it easy,” William said. “We also need to make sure she isn’t stressed.”

“We can do that,” Trixie said. “Maybe you should rest here and not meet everyone at dinner tonight.”

“I’m not missing that,” Penelope said. “I will rest until dinner and then I will be there. I am not going to miss seeing Peter and Helen again, or meeting all your friends.”

“Are you sure?”  Trixie pressed. “It’s not necessary if you are not feeling well.”

“It is to me,” Penelope said, putting as much strength in her voice as she could.

Trixie smiled. “All right. I will see you both at dinner.”

Trixie turned and left the room.

TO BE CONTINUED….