When morning arrived, Chell woke up from a dreamless sleep. The same pristine ceiling greeted her overhead, this time bathed in a bright light. Slowly, she blinked and sat up. She could not remember ever crawling back and returning to sleep on the bed again. A suggestive thought passed over her head. Perhaps, Noct carried me here last night.

Speaking of the thief, Noct himself was now standing in front of the paintings strung on the high walls. His back was to her as he studied each one of them in deep and silent interest. Rays of the sun crept in from the windows and the doors of the balcony, basking the entire room in an almost harsh glow. Chell only realized then on how golden the room looked in the presence of day. Each corner was fully illuminated, highlighting the room's shiny grandeur and design, as expected no less from a royal palace.

"Ah, good morning, little miss. Had a nice sleep?" the thief suddenly asked without tearing his gaze away from what he was looking at. He was staring at a portrait of a woman descending from the sky. Chell slowly focused at him. The color of his scarf seemed too red for her weary eyes.

"I...," she mumbled feebly, trying to create a sentence. Her throat felt dry, and her mind was still muddled from recent sleep.

A sudden knock on the door caught their attention. The witch and thief turned their heads simultaneously just as it swung open. A tall maid quietly stepped in, wearing a frilly dress. Her movements were calm and collected as she bowed to each of them respectfully, making sure not to look up at them at eye level.

"Ms. Chell, Mr. Noct, Princess Yoko asks for your health condition," she said. "If you are of sound mind and body, she requests you to join her to breakfast this morning in the royal dining room."

Chell blinked, taken aback by the invitation. She and the thief exchanged a brief glance to each other. Noct titled his head. A quick understanding passed between them. The Snow Witch turned back to the maid and gave a small, firm nod.

"I'm fine... and alright," she said.

The maid straightened up, one arm over her stomach. "I shall convey that to the princess. Another maid will fetch you soon." She bowed again, swiftly reaching for the doorknob. "Please excuse me."

When the door closed with a faint thump, Noct suddenly made a grin. "'Mr. Noct'? My, that sounds oddly satisfying."

Chell made a light shake of her head. She waited for a few more seconds to regain her bearings. Then, quietly, she slipped from underneath the covers, planting her feet on the cold floor. Now that she was able to focus, she realized that she was feeling better compared to the night before. Her head didn't feel as light and she could sense her strength come back to her body, providing enough to support her.

Noct tugged at his scarf. "Feeling any better?" he asked. Reluctantly, Chell nodded again.

In that moment the door opened once more, much earlier than she had expected it to. Unlike the previous, however, the door had been swung more forcefully, as though someone had forced it open from the other side. Chell noticed the thief tense up, facing towards the doorway. Like her, he was no doubt thinking of a sudden danger. However, both their suspicions were easily gone when Jul Orben and Yoko Castagne stepped inside, bickering with each other.

There was a wide grin on the young witch's face. Jul was dressed similarly to before, although she had taken off her tunic and the cloth wrapped around her right arm. Yoko, on the other hand, looked as graceful as Chell last remembered. She was wearing an intricate white dress with a shawl covering her shoulders. Atop her head, her chaplet rested comfortably, carefully displaying her royal descent. Her eyes were as piercingly blue, bearing an aura of superiority. Seeing her suddenly, Chell was struck with the thought of how Yoko indeed looked like a real princess in the midst of her home rather than being just a random girl they had only met a day ago.

As they entered, a heated argument was going in between them. It seemed that they had been at it for some time already, judging from the scowl across Yoko's face. Jul, on the other hand, seemed like she wasn't even listening. She was beaming as she walked in.

"-told you not to disturb them!" Yoko was hissing. "It's still too early for-"

"Chell!" Jul dismissed her without a second thought, quickly heading towards the Snow Witch. "Did you have a nice sleep? Are you okay? How are you feeling? Are you--ugh!" She made a chocking sound as Yoko grabbed her by the collar like the other day and pulled her back before she could reach any closer.

"Yoky! That's unfair!" Jul wailed in distress, trying to uselessly wiggle away. "I just want to see if she's okay!"

Yoko ignored her and instead looked up to Noct and Chell, making her voice loud enough to be heard over Jul's complaints. "Did you two have a good rest?"

Noct acted as the speaker for both of them and answered in her steed. "Ah, yes. It was plenty refreshing. And the little miss feels better now, thanks to your help."

"It was nothing," Yoko shook her head. "I'm glad we were able to offer our services."

She looked at Chell and offered a nod. Seeing that, Chell decided in that moment to stand up, pushing herself off the bed. Slowly, she faced Yoko and made a small bow.

"... I am grateful for your help. Thank you... so much."

Yoko shook her head again. "Really, there is no need for gratitude. It would have still been required for us to help you, even if we did not offer it. After all, you are a Vitte, one of the four families. Although late, it is an honor to be able to greet you into my kingdom."

Chell straightened herself. There was a bitter taste in her mouth when she heard the term 'Vitte', although she had tried her best not to show it on her expression. Again, the mere mention of that title brought unpleasant memories for her. She forced her thoughts away by blinking once, then nodding again to the princess.

"... I feel the same."

Yoko offered her a small smile. "Well, I hope you don't mind, but would you like to share breakfast with us? I'm sure the maid before explained this to you. I think you'll find the food quite delicious. Franz is the best cook in the kingdom."

The Snow Witch turned to Noct. The thief cast her a quick glance, raising his eyebrows with a glint of evident amusement in his eyes. Chell then looked back at Yoko. Now that the princess had mentioned food, she realized that she was feeling hungry all along. Thinking back on it, the last time Chell had eaten was the day before, and the mere suggestion of something delicious and decent to bite made her mouth almost water. Slowly, she nodded again in answer, trying not to seem too eager.

"... Of course."

Yoko and Jul led them outside of their chambers. Once they stepped outside, her eyes spun as they began to pass through countless wide and twisting corridors. Knowing her wonderful knack for direction, Chell was almost certain she was going to get lost if she decided to fall behind. To her silent gratitude, the thief had decided to trail behind the group. The witch didn't know whether he did this on purpose after remembering Chell's talent or whether he just wanted to lag behind. Nevertheless, she felt reassured by his presence. As she glanced back at him, she noticed that his eyes were opened wide in amazement, silently taking in the entire structure of the building. Chell could not blame him. She had felt the same way the first time she entered the palace of Aurden, though compared to this one, it was far more larger and grand. Still, the palace of Gisnell's design was not something to belittle.

From the high ceilings, glittering chandeliers hung from chains as they caught the sunlight streaming in from the head-to-toe windows that flanked their left. Chell could see the view of the kingdom from the other side of the glass. Thick and majestic red curtains were tied back to allow light and air to filter in. On the floor was a long, lush carpet that muffled their steady footsteps. The four of them had been passing through dozens of oaken doors that looked alike, flanked by pedestals bearing flower vases that bloomed beautiful roses of red. To their right, the walls were decorated with even more golden-framed paintings, each one looking as detailed as the last. Maids and butlers bowed respectfully when they saw the princess pass by, cautiously not meeting her eyes.

Beside Yoko, Jul was talking loudly to Chell. The princess had agreed to let go of her cuff on the condition that she would not approach the Snow Witch within one feet. Jul had managed so far. Now, she was speaking to Chell with wide and joyful eyes, pointing out the places in the palace where they did not go. "This hall leads to the patios. This one leads to the ballroom. This one leads to the library!"

For Chell, the trip to the dining room seemed to take hours, although it was not that she found it uncomfortable. They descended down countless rows and rows of stairs, escaping once again into another wide corridor. This time, it seemed that they were not the only ones there. Chell noticed a group of important people walking towards them, heading towards the opposite direction. The air of authority they gave off informed everyone around them that they were not to be meddled with. She narrowed her eyes slightly and counted five people, four of whom were visibly lagging behind the fifth in the middle. As she listened, they were talking in hushed, fast tones. When they were only a few feet away from them, she suddenly realized that Jul had quieted down.

As the group passed them by, the Snow Witch somehow recognized the one in the lead, even though she was certain she had never met him before. He was a man in his early adulthood, bearing a striking resemblance with none other than Yoko. With the same red hair and blue eyes, it was evident that he was, in some way, closely related to her. Yet, his features seemed far more sharper compared to the princesses', and there was a prominent frown on his face. If Chell were to admit truthfully, he almost looked menacing. As he passed by, however, a strange scene happened. Instead, of greeting Yoko, Chell noticed how he seemed to glare sharply at her instead for a split second. Then, he proceeded to ignore her, not even acknowledging her presence as he turned his head to speak with his companions.

Chell looked at Yoko's figure, wondering what happened. For a few steps, none among them spoke.

"... That was my uncle, Basil." Yoko finally explained once they were out of earshot. She did not look back. Her tone sounded cold. "He and I... don't have the best relationship. My father, the king, has been ailing for some time. His condition is worsening by every passing day; no potion or spell is able to help him. His time is nearing. Since I'm his only daughter and child, I'm the one who'll become queen next. Yet Basil wants to be the next king, as the second in line. There have been... rumors about who is better to inherit the throne. I am sure my people prefer him over me..."

Yoko trailed off. She made it clear in her tone that she did not want to discuss the topic any further. The rest of the walk held an uncomfortable air that had not been present before. Chell wondered how she could easily say those words without hesitation.

"Ah! I just remembered. Mr. Baker told us he had a new recipe for pie, Yoko! He invited us over to try a sample!" Jul suddenly grinned at the princess, trying to lighten up the grim mood.

It worked. Yoko turned to her and smiled, her eyes warm. "Oh, really? We must try some later, then."

Chell glanced at Noct once again. He shrugged.

Not too long after that, they finally arrived at the royal dining room, which Jul pointed out on a happy note. Once the maids opened the enormous double doors obligingly and led them all inside, the effort of the short journey almost seemed worth it.

An enormous chamber spread out before them, where three huge chandeliers hung from above. In the center of the room was a long and wide table where elaborate-looking chairs were propped in an array. Various lines of food were prepared on one end, where four plates and silverware were readied. Chell could not cook, nor was she knowledgeable with food, yet a single look told her that each one of these were made of the finest taste and quality. She recognized a few dishes, however. There was meat and bread, topped with sauce and various spices. The scent wafted up and filled their noses, instantly making her crave for a taste.

Yoko told them to sit down on the far end, where the food was prepared. Noct whistled as he did. "Whew. Fancy."

Chell slightly shook her head in disbelief. It seemed too much. They settled down, Yoko sitting at the table end, being the princess. To her right was Jul. Chell followed to her left, then Noct.

Yoko nodded at the dishes before them. "Well. It seems like Franz got too excited," she remarked amusedly.

Jul grinned and grabbed a fork. Her green eyes were twinkling as always. "Ah, these smell delicious! I've missed Franz's serious cooking!" She laughed quietly.

The princess turned to Chell and Noct, who were quietly sitting there and basking in the feast before them. She nodded. "Please, help yourselves."

Chell blinked slowly, then nodded. Noct did the same. She reached out and silently took a fork and a knife. As she did, she noticed Jul staring at her hands. Chell recognized the look of curiosity she had. She could easily guess what Jul was thinking.

"... What's with the bandages?" Jul remarked. "Aren't you taking them off?"

Chell almost flinched, not expecting her to be too thorough. "This is..." she looked at Noct for help, giving him a silent plea.

"Oh, she's really sensitive about her scars." The thief lied easily, already in the act of cutting a piece of bread. He looked like he was genuinely enjoying himself. "The little miss never takes it off."

Jul blinked a few times, a puzzled look coming over her face. "Really? I see... How interesting! Ah! Could it be a scar from a fight with a witch hunter?"

Chell blinked, then shook her head. "... No."

"Oh... well, I'm pretty sure there'll be a really cool story behind it!" She replied ecstatically. "We still have a lot of time together, after all! I want to hear all about it!"

The Snow Witch regarded the thought carefully, not meeting the other witch's eyes. A blanket of dread spread over her. Then, she decided to speak in her usual quiet tone. "After this... Noct and I will be leaving..." she whispered evenly.

Beside Chell, Yoko turned her head and raised her eyebrows inquisitively. She placed her utensils beside her plate without any sound. Her tone was calm as she spoke. "Not yet. You should stay longer. Are you in a hurry?"

Chell closed her mouth. The answer to her question was a definite yes. Yet, there was an even more pressing matter. Chell shook her head. "No... it would be troublesome for you... it would not be safe."

Jul cut in, looking thoroughly saddened. "But why?"

The Snow Witch did not answer for a few moments. It was true, however. It would not be safe for Chell and Noct, or for both Yoko and Jul to take them in after what happened days ago. Uldard, after all, was a famous kingdom. When she and the thief had escaped from the public execution, she knew it would cause an uproar. Uldard was not a kingdom who stayed down after a loss. If that news took over the continent, then it would only bring misunderstandings if Gisnell, its neighboring kingdom, was found to be sheltering the criminals responsible. Chell wanted to leave while Yoko and Jul didn't know about it yet. They needed time for the unrest to settle, and by then, they would have been gone.

However, those worrying thoughts were easily interrupted when the princess suddenly cleared her throat.

"We know about Uldard," Yoko said.

A silence descended. Chell's eyes widened slightly when she heard that. Noct froze, fork hanging in midair, mouth hanging.

Chell looked at Yoko warily. "... How-"

"Quite easy. Your identities have sparked rumors all over the kingdom. I suspect the other neighbors have heard of you as well. After all, no witch has ever escaped Uldard's public executions in thirty years. They did not mention specific names. Instead, they speak of a girl cloaked in ice and her accomplice bearing a blood-colored scarf. It did not take much to put two and two together," Yoko explained.

"But-"

"There is no need to worry," the princess interrupted for the second time. "We don't believe in false rumors, especially from a vile place such as that. I know what you're thinking, that you would cause trouble for this palace. But I'd like to ask a selfish request. For as long as you remain here in Gisnell... please, stay here. This is both my duty and my offer. There will be food and clothes provided. Your safety shall be ensured. No one can be able to touch you both here, as long as I remain in power. Although I may not be loved by my people, I am still the princes, after all."

Chell was left speechless as Yoko finished curtly. Slowly, she looked at the thief who continued to stare at the princess. His eyes were narrowed.

"But... why do this?" The Snow Witch asked.

She might have imagined it, but she thought she saw Yoko take a quick glance in Jul's direction. "Because you're a Vitte. And... I've grown quite fond of you two. Jul has, too." She smiled. "Please, accept this."

Chell stared at her piercing blue eyes. In that moment, she longed again for any guidance that the dead could offer her. Uncertainly, she made a small, hesitant nod.

"Hooray!" Jul cheered loudly. "I'm so happy! Thank you, Chell, Noct! Thank you, Yoky!"

Yoko frowned. "I thought you stopped calling me by that ridiculous nickname already."

Chell turned down at her plate, feeling another sense of dread. She shook her head lightly. Did I do the right thing?

Minutes later, they finished their meal with satisfied bellies, between Jul's happy-go-lucky conversations and Yoko's chittering responds. Noct chimed in from time to time. Chell could not remember the last time she had eaten something so delicious and ended up so full, nor could she remember the last time she ate with people around her. During her traveling with the thief, all they had been eating were the tasteless rations Noct had brought from Uldard and the fruits they found in the forest. She was reminded of how good it felt to be satisfied for once, and how calming it was to have others to eat with.

Beware, our Snow, the dead would have said to her in that moment. Do not be foolish.

Jul stood up first and gave both Chell and Noct an ear-splitting grin, placing her hands on the table. "Well then!" she cheered. "It's about time we go!"

Noct frowned beside the Snow Witch, tilting his head. "Go? Where?"

"What are you saying, Noct?" The Falcon Witch glanced at Yoko with a bright glimmer in her eyes. "To tour the kingdom, of course!"

----> thank you for reading!