The early morning sun filtered through the intricate honeycomb lattice of the palace windows, casting golden patterns across the room. Vespa was curled beneath a silken quilt embroidered with the royal sigil, her breathing soft and steady in peaceful sleep. The gentle buzz of the hive awakening could be heard faintly in the distance, a comforting hum of life and activity.
General Alder stepped into the room, his heavy footsteps muted on the polished stone floor. His weathered face softened as he approached the young princess, a protective warmth in his eyes. He knelt beside her bed, shaking her gently by the shoulder.
"Wakey, wakey, Vespa. Breakfast is served," he said in a tone as warm as morning sunlight.
Vespa stirred, her wings fluttering faintly before her ruby red eyes blinked open. She stretched with a soft yawn, as she took in her uncle's familiar face.
"Morning, Uncle Alder," she murmured, her voice still groggy with sleep.
With practiced ease, Vespa slid out of bed and padded over to the vanity. She picked up her favorite pieces of jewelry—delicate golden chains adorned with amber beads—and clasped them on, her crown resting lightly atop her head. Alder watched with quiet pride as she adjusted her reflection, the young heir already radiating the grace of a future queen.
Together, they made their way through the winding halls of the palace, the buzz of activity growing louder as they approached the dining hall. Inside, the royal family and their attendants were already busy preparing for breakfast.
King Goliath, a towering figure with an unyielding strength that belied his gentle demeanor, was carrying trays of food alongside the hive's head chef, Sugarbug. Meanwhile, Queen Wasp, regal and efficient, worked alongside Springtail, the royal headmaid, arranging the table with the precision of a well-choreographed dance.
"Good morning, Vespa!" Queen Wasp greeted, her black silver eyes lighting up at the sight of her daughter. Vespa smiled brightly and immediately rushed to help, carefully placing plates and utensils at each seat. The young princess moved with the enthusiasm of a child but the grace of royalty, earning a small nod of approval from her mother.
Alder slipped away into the kitchen to speak with Sugarbug. He leaned in close, lowering his voice as he shared a secret request with the head chef. Sugarbug nodded, with a hint of excitement at the challenge.
When Alder returned, the table was fully set, the golden morning light catching on the polished silverware and crystal goblets. Vespa took her seat between her parents, her crown glinting in the light as she glanced eagerly at the array of dishes being brought in by Sugarbug and his staff. Each dish was carefully tailored to the preferences of the hive's ladies, offering a blend of sweetness and nourishment that showcased Sugarbug's culinary expertise.
As the family began to eat, Vespa remembered something she'd been meaning to ask. She nudged her mother gently with a wing, looking up at her with curiosity sparkling in her eyes.
"Mom? Can you tell me how you and Dad met? And maybe... more about the two of you?" Vespa asked, her voice a mix of shyness and excitement.
Queen Wasp chuckled softly, exchanging a knowing glance with King Goliath. "Of course, Vespa. After breakfast and your lessons, we can sit down with some sweets and tea. I'll tell you everything," she promised.
Vespa's face lit up at the thought, and she returned to her meal with newfound energy, eager for the afternoon ahead.
Once breakfast was finished, General Alder subtly signaled Sugarbug with a flick of his tail. The head chef nodded and disappeared into the kitchen with his staff. A few moments later, Alder leaned closer to Vespa, catching her attention with a sly smile.
YOU ARE READING
The daughter of the Queen
FantasyA story of the growth of the hive princess of pantala and the many things happening in her time growing up
