Chapter 12Although she was not allowed to leave the house, Snow still managed to live a semi-normal childhood.
As she was not allowed to go out and learn with other children, and the Queen, citing enemies as ever, refused to get her a tutor, Ellis taught her to read and do her sums.
Ellis was wise beyond his station and made her a kind and gentle tutor.
Even her most earnest questions found an answer in him.
As she had when she was a toddler, she found comfort in her dearest fairy bear.
She found another escape, as well. Although she was confined by walls, her imagination was not.
Hear ye, hear ye!
I hereby free you, by royal decree!
Unfortunately for the young princess, she did not go unobserved.
She is mocking me! No, worse! She is realising her own royal destiny as rightful heir to the throne. What shall I do? What shall I do?
All too suddenly, the Queen became aware that she was ageing. Slowly, but surely. She was certain she could detect wrinkles in her once-perfect skin.
Nothing seemed to be the same as it once was.
She sat brooding at her vanity.
Then she spoke the words that so often had cheered her to the mirror in her bedchamber.
Mirror, mirror, on the wall: Who is the fairest of them all?
All across the land I seek, from tallest mount to deepest creek,
From fairy glen to dwarven mine, no one's beauty matches thine.
The queen was but little comforted. Surely, she remained the most beautiful in the land, but for how long? She must find some way to preserve her beauty. She sent for a painter of unsurpassed skill, who soon arrived at the castle.
The painter was immediately set to work painting portrait after portrait of the queen.
All this time, while the queen's attention was focused elsewhere and her energies otherwise occupied, the king's bewitchment was growing weaker, and his own native personality showed signs of re-asserting itself. One evening as the queen sat for yet another portrait, he stole out of the castle with Snow White to the garden, where his beloved first wife was buried. They mourned over her together.
My darling child, although I cannot often show it due to the curse upon me, I must have you know that I do love you, deeply. You are still my beloved daughter.
I love you too, Father! the overcome princess cried.
It is so wonderful to be outside, Father. I miss the feeling so.
Yes, my dear. You have an inherent connection to the earth and nature, as did your blessed mother. My child, I must give to you a warning while I am still able. Beware your stepmother the queen. She is more dangerous than your innocent mind can comprehend.
I will, Father.
