entranceway | The Seventh Gambit

[The Red Queen appears on the video standing, poised, in the entranceway in front of the giant cookie Christmas tree. She gazes at the camera for a moment, as though waiting until she has everyone's attention, before speaking. Her message is broadcast on both the real side and mirror side networks simultaneously.]

Good morning, dear Real Things. I've been remiss so far in not appearing before you. By way of apology, I've arranged for a special holiday treat for you all. Dear Bill has implemented it beautifully.

[She raises both hands and gives a quiet clap before lowering them again, clasped in front of her. She's smiling serenely.]

Let me also say that the dear Mirrors are invited over should they wish to enjoy the festivities. You do deserve to have fun some of the time. I've even arranged special gifts for you a little later on.

In parting, I will give you this advice: Do not overindulge. Too many sweets before bedtime can upset your stomach and ruin your dreams.

[There's another brief pause, which she spends smiling, as though letting her words sink in. Then the video ends.

She will be available over the network to answer responses, but should anyone venture to the entranceway looking for her, she will not be there for in-person audiences.]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

But this is your... realm. You're the queen. Why aren't you calling all the shots?

Have you ever met a Queen who could control the weather?

No, but I've never met a queen who was in charge of a magical world that traps people before. Actually, you're the first queen I've met.

I shall do my best not to disappoint, in that case.

[A beat.]

Though I suppose I will have to disappoint, if what you want is the impossible.

All I want is to find a way back home to my daughter.

Then you will continue to be disappointed by me, I'm sorry to say.

I'm not disappointed, that's what I was expecting. I also know that it isn't your fault. That doesn't stop me from wishing there was a way to change it, though.

Perhaps a way will someday present itself. Shortcuts are known to happen.

Then again, the path is not always open. Sometimes you must move around other pieces to get to your goal.

But I'm sure you know all of this.

I think I do. I just wish I knew a better way to go about it. Thanks for being as straight-forward with me as you could, though.

You are certainly welcome. I will do what I can to assist you Real things while you're here in my realm.

That means quite a lot, considering what we go through here. I hope we get to talk again sometime soon, uh, your majesty.

I'm sure we will. Until that time, do take care.

The Seventh Gambit

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