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Chapter Text

Chapter 1

1757

“Mama,” I said. I took three little steps, tripped, and flew into Mama’s open arms. I sighed.

“Don’t worry, Maria Antonia,” Mama comforted me, stroking my soft hair. “You’ll eventually learn how to walk.”

I, Maria Antonia Josepha Johanna, two years old, stumbled and collapsed on the cold castle floor. My mama, Maria Theresa, always made me feel better. I depended on her, and I always will. Always will, until I die.

Mama got up, laughed, and picked me up. “It’s past your bedtime, Antonia. Let’s get you clean and comfy, then tucked into bed.”

We walked up the grand spiral stairs, and she opened the door to my bedroom. The room was decorated pink, and a crib sat in the corner. The pink curtain drapes and peaceful light made me feel sleepy. I yawned.

Mama hugged me close.

“My dear, you have such a bright future. You will become the future queen of France, so we can keep the ties between Austria and France strong. Do not let us down. You are the cause of our future. Believe in yourself.”

And, from that day on, I never forgot those words. They continued to ring in my ear.

Mama wrapped a blanket around me, put me into the crib, and kissed me on the forehead. “Sleep tight.” Then she shut the door.

Chapter Text

Chapter 2

1762

“Antonia!” I jolted awake. Mama was coming. “I just found the perfect tutor for you!”

Tutor?! I didn’t like the word "tutor". I don’t want to study. All I wanted was to have fun and play. I groaned and sat up in my pink silk canopy bed.

‘Why do I have to get an education? I’m only seven!’ I thought, devastated.

I would not get any time to play!

I threw on my gold jeweled dress and went into the bathroom to wash up. Then, I realized there was something wrong with the toothbrush. The bristles were entwined together.

“Father! Did you mess with the toothbrush?” I yelled.

No answer.

Who cares?

Clean teeth or not, I went down for breakfast.

I opened the door to the grand dining room. There was a shiny new candlelight chandelier in the middle of the room, complete with glittering diamonds. I stepped in, walked over to the table, and sat down. I squirmed nervously like a fat worm on a hot sidewalk.

My parents were there, and they were up to something, something I didn’t like.

“Antonia, we figured that you are lacking study, and you’re very behind,” my father began. Oh, my God! Not again! Every day, my dad complains about how I don’t study and how I’m behind for a seven-year-old. Blah, blah, blah-blah, blah, blah!

I was almost sick to death of this nonsense! I rolled my eyes, resisting the urge to

1. Jump up.

2. Shout, “I’m not in the mood for lessons!”

3. And say that it’s none of their business.

But instead, I shrugged and said, “Okay”.

My father continued. “And, to help you with this problem, I hired the perfect tutor for you.” Tutor?! I completely lost it and yelled at my father. “Um, excuse me?! I don’t need some dysfunctional tutoring! I am not stupid! And I ain’t got no stinking problem!” Of course, I did not articulate these thoughts out loud.

Mama could see I was a bit unsatisfied, so she patted me on the head and smiled, “I thought you’d be pretty disappointed about this, so we’d get that puppy you’ve been wanting, Antonia.” I gasped.

My brothers and sisters gasped too.

“What?!” Joseph shouted.

“How come?” Carolina shrieked.

“No fair!” Leopold yelled.

“Why???” Christina whined.

Elisabeth and Amalia both huffed and scowled. Johanna pretended to faint, but Mama told her to knock it off. Josepha sneezed. My other brothers crossed their arms.

“You’re spoiling Antonia too much!” Anna spat.

“She’s right, Maria. Plus, the other kids didn’t get pets just because they needed to study,” my father said, matter-of-factly.

“Still, Francis! It’s not like we’re spoiling her! She needs it! She is the mother of our future! If we don’t give her anything she wants, she won’t care about us at all! She can’t do that to us! Besides, I say she can. I’m the heiress, not you.”

My sisters and brothers grunted.

“Now, kids, show Antonia some support,” Mama scolded.

“I don’t care about the puppy,” I blurted. “I don’t want to get tutoring, and that’s final,” I shouted, kind of angry now.

“No, it is not final. Listen, Antonia, I am the ruler, and you will do as you are told. If you don’t want the puppy, fine. Take it or leave it. Listen to me. You will get tutored, whether you like it or not,” Mama said firmly.

“Yeah, you better listen. Otherwise, your mother wouldn’t get you any puppies,” Carolina teased.

Carolina was ten years old and knew a lot more than me. Maybe I should take her advice, but deep down I felt like she just wanted me to get tutored. I was still mad.

Then a servant came in and served Fruhstuck in Osterreich. This morning, it was an assortment of different meats, eggs, and cheeses, served with buttery biscuits. Yum!

“Thank you, kindly,” Mama said. “When is the tutor supposed to come?”

The servant scratched her head. “Probably next week, Empress.” She did not sound sure.

Mama frowned. “Tell the messenger to tell the tutor to come today!”

What?!

I dipped my biscuit into some honey and took a bite. It was delicious.

“Wait, what? They’re coming today?!” I screeched.

“Yes, my dear, if you have not noticed, the tutor will have a session with you in two hours.”

I almost choked on an egg yolk.

“What?! I never said you could make the tutor come today!” I shrieked.

“UGH!”

Then I got up, scraped my plate into the wastebasket, and stormed upstairs to my large and luxurious room, slamming the door.

Chapter Text

Chapter 3

Noooooo! I can’t believe this! The tutor’s coming today?! I panicked.

“How am I supposed to study when my brain’s dead?!” I panicked some more. I heard that tutors always bop you on the head with a stick or whip you when you make a mistake. And, considering that my brain isn't working, I was going to experience a ton of scars!

So when I wrote a letter to my friend, concerning the problem, she answered, “Don’t worry, Antonia. I trust you. You will do fine with your tutor.” I suppose some tutors could be vicious, but not all of them.

This made me glad, but I was not one hundred percent sure about this. I kept thinking the tutor would reject teaching me. No, I'm hoping! Better yet, praying!

This had to end.

No hope, too late.

The guards had already escorted the tutor onto our private floor. Our floor only belonged to us, so nobody could enter without special permission.

Anyone allowed to enter deserves to feel like they won a jackpot. Anyone but the tutor!

I heard voices.

“She’s upstairs,” I heard Mama say. Then footsteps. The footsteps got louder and louder.

Oh, no! They were headed my way! There was no way he was coming into my bedroom! I prayed with all my heart and soul, “Make them go away!”

I curled up into a ball when the doorknob clicked and braced for the worst…

“Antonia! Miss Antonia?!” the tutor called in a sing-song voice.

It sounded like “Ahn-too-nae-yahh,” with the long “o” pulled very long. I completely freaked out! I peeked at the tutor.

He said, “Well, don’t keep me waiting, miss. We don’t have all day.”

Uh-oh. He meant business. I sat up.

“Listen, princess. I heard you’re not looking forward to tutoring class, but trust me, it will be fun. Let us begin with basic knowledge. What’s three times three?” he asked.

“Nine!” I shouted.

“Good. Do you know how to add and subtract?”

“Yes!” I shouted. Was this guy serious? I already knew how to add, subtract, multiply, and divide.

“What’s twelve times twelve?” the tutor asked.

“One… forty-four!” I shouted.

“Great! You seem to know all of your times tables. Let’s learn long division.” He took out a tiny chalkboard and wrote 369 divided by 32.

“See, you divide into the tens. So, 36 divided by 32 gives you 1. Write 1 above the tens place. Then multiply 32 by 1 with 0 as a placeholder for the ones' place. Subtract that product from 369. It’s 49. Then divide 49 by 32 again. Again, it is 1. Write 1 above the ones' place. Subtract the product from 49. The remaining difference is 17. So, 369 divided by 32 gives you 11 and a remainder of 17.” the tutor said.

I nodded. “I already know this stuff,” I lied. “Can we do something else?” I asked.

“Like what?” the tutor asked.

“Like.. art!” I love art. I love drawing and painting.

Bruh, this dude seems like he’s still trying to teach me math.

“Well, let’s make clay models then!” the tutor announced overenthusiastically.

Clay models?! What did that have to do with art?

Ugh. This guy is trying to teach me stuff again right after I talked him out of it. What is his problem?

Note: Get a new tutor!

The tutor interrupted my thoughts.

“Young lady, this is a clay model.” Then he showed me a well-made clay sculpture of a queen.

“Wow,” I murmured. “Astonishing, right? Do you want to make your own?” the tutor asked. I hesitated. Nobody likes to make clay models, except for this old dude who’s my tutor.

Then I thought of the puppy. I was dying for it, and the only way Mama would buy it for me would be if I did well in my tutoring classes.

But some assumptions I had pointed to whatever I was doing was taking me nowhere.

Although, I knew assumptions may be wrong. Notice I said “may”!

Finally, I smiled. “Sure.”

“Great! For clay carving, or modeling, you get a big block of clay,” he said, handing me a block of gray clay. “Then,” he continued. “You take some carving tools, such as a chisel, and carve it into whatever shape you desire with the following instructions”.

“I want to carve a bowl,” I said.

“Okay, Antonia, to carve a bowl is making pottery. So, roll a ball like this,” he began, rolling the ball of clay. “Then you carve a hole in the ball.” The tutor, unfortunately, did not have the tools to carve holes right then, so he made a fist and punched a hole in it.

Dang.

“See? Now make your own.”

I rolled a ball of clay, and unfortunately, I did not have the tools either. Suddenly I remembered that punching was not ladylike. Mama would scold me for doing it if I did.

Just when I was considering it, Mama opened the door and poked her head in.

“Antonia, time is up! You’ve done well today! Okay, my loyal tutor, it’s time for you to go home! Thank you very much!” Mama said.

“You’re welcome, Empress Maria Theresa,” the tutor said, blushing. Then he went down to the main floor and left. After me and Mama were left alone, I begged for my puppy.

“Mama, I’ve worked hard today, and I learned a lot today. I enjoyed the tutoring class. I really, really want my puppy. You promised it to me, Mama,” I exclaimed.

“Wow, Antonia,” Mama stared at me in disbelief. “Let’s hear it from the tutor. If he says you’re working hard, you get the puppy. Otherwise, you get it next week after the exam.”

Gulp. I am not good at tests, so I hope I don’t get them. I’m hopeful and praying for good luck. “Hm, you did pretty well today. I’m impressed. Well, you might as well get the puppy earlier than expected,” Mama finished.

Yay! Hey, maybe tutoring classes won’t be as bad as they seem.

Chapter Text

Chapter 4

“Empress Maria Theresa! Emperor Francis! We have a visitor!” a servant yelled.

Oh, my! Every day we have a new visitor! Who could this be?

“Let them come in!” Mama ordered. The guards opened the gates. We were on the private floor balcony, so we could see pretty much everything.

“I don’t get why people visit us all day,” Christina grumbled.

“True,” Amalia agreed.

“I don’t want to give another autograph,” Johanna complained.

“Chill out, you guys!” I yelled. “It could be someone really special!”

“That’s my Antonia!” Mama beamed.

“Of course, Antonia - mother’s pet,” Carolina quipped, rolling her eyes.

“Certainly - you’re spoiling her!” Elisabeth grumped.

“Enough, children! You know! You guys were grumping until Antonia put a stop to it! Then you get mad at her! Enough, Elisabeth, go to your room! Now! Carolina, go to that corner! You girls, stop complaining! And listen to Antonia,” Mama said. She led Elisabeth to her room and grounded Carolina. She came back, hugged me, and told the other kids to be on their best behavior. “Remember, I’m listening! Whatever you do or say to Antonia reflects upon me! Do I make myself clear?” Mama demanded.

They nodded, glancing annoyedly at each other as if to say, “Mama’s Pet!”

“Follow me,” Mama led us to the main floor. “Please welcome Leopold, Anna Maria, Nannerl, and Wolfgang Mozart!” Mama exclaimed.

Wow! The famous Mozart family! Wolfgang was seven, just like me, and he already was an aspiring musician. Can you imagine?

His sister, Nannerl, was pretty talented too but not as famous as her little brother.

Wow! My sisters were W-R-O-N-G! Wrong! This wasn’t boring at all! I felt kind of sorry for Carolina and Elisabeth because they couldn’t get to see this. I took a look at Wolfgang. He looked very hyper, and he bolted for my mama like a bull.

Wolfgang hugged Mama, and she smiled. “Your son’s adorable,” she said.

“Why, thank you,” Wolfgang’s father, Leopold, said. “We’re here to perform music.”

Wolfgang smiled and walked over to the grand piano.

…Slip… CRASH!

“Oof!” Wolfgang yelped when he fell to the floor and almost collided with me. I scrambled to the little boy and helped him up.

“Are you okay?” I asked.

“Yes, ma’am,” Wolfgang said politely and then blushed, batting his eyelashes. “You’re so kind. I… I… like you. Will you marry me someday???”

I laughed, and everyone laughed with me.

“Oooh, Wonder Boy, I’d love to!” I giggled at my own words. What a sappy moment. My stomach was filled with butterflies, and I felt like flying through the air. When I finally calmed down, Wolfgang started to play his first composition. Soft music drifted through my ears, and it was a sweet peaceful melody. When he finished, we all clapped for him. My clap was the loudest. I was so proud of him!

Wolfgang solemnly took a bow.

After Nannerl played, Mama exclaimed, “Oh, you wonderful children. Continue playing music, and I wish you good luck.” She curtsied.

Everybody clapped until Mozart's family left. See, I knew it wasn’t boring! Too bad for Elisabeth and Carolina! HA! Serves you right for complaining about me!

Now I just need to keep my fingers crossed for that puppy. Hopeful!

Chapter Text

Chapter 5

Woof! Woof! I ran downstairs.

Yip-yip! I followed the noise and found it in the royal living room: a puppy! Yee! To be exact, it was a pug.

“Pug! Puppy! Thank you so much, Mama!!” I squealed. The pug’s head looked like a mop top. It was snowy white at the top and had hairs resembling the strands on a mop. So I called the puppy Mops. Super cute, right? While I was petting Mops, a thought came to my head. What did the tutor say about me? Does he think I’m too smart, that I don’t want to learn anything? I was worried about that.

When I asked Mama, she replied, “You’ve done very well, according to your tutor. That’s why I got you the puppy, Antonia, my dear.”

“Mops?” I asked.

“Oh, whatever you call him,” Mama laughed. I breathed a sigh of relief. Whew! I guess my plan had worked, after all.

“So that you know, your tutor’s visiting again today. So be ready,” Mama said.

The tutoring class finally arrived. The tutor greeted me with a hug and offered me a cookie. “It’s lichen,” he said.

“Never heard of it,” I shrugged. “What should we do?”

“Where’s your clay model?” the tutor asked. “I don’t like clay models,” I answered. “I didn’t make one. I don’t like tutoring class, either.”
“Why not?” the tutor asked.

“I don’t feel like learning things I already know. It makes me feel like I’m stupid and don’t know anything. I hate that. It insults me. I wish I could go to a normal school and have friends like other people. But royal people don’t. Being royal sucks. And, it annoys me that you have to always teach me useless things,” I said accusingly.

“Er… no offense, Antonia,” the tutor said, disappointed. “But I don’t think you know everything. You still need me.”

I did not say a word.

Finally, I asked, “Can we just play a game?”

“What game?”

“Never mind what game. What’s your name?” I asked.

“You don’t need to know that,” he answered.

Bruh, this dude doesn’t even have a name!

What kind of tutor is he?

Finally, Mama escorted the tutor out of the castle when the class was finished. It was absolute torture! I hated being an archduchess. Well, at least my only friend is Mops.

Chapter Text

Chapter 6

Today started like any other day. I ate breakfast, fed Mops, and waited for the tutor to come. Three hours passed, and nobody came.

A knock came to my door. I jumped up and opened it. It was Mama.

“Mama?” I asked. “What happened to the tutor?” I felt dazed. How come something strange happened all of a sudden? I wanted to know.

“I’m sorry, Antonia… But, your tutor’s not teaching you the things you need, and you’re way too behind. So I fired him.”

YAY! No more tutoring!

“But, I’m trying to hire a new one, and while I do, you have to keep studying,” Mama finished. Boo! More tutoring and studying! Beyond repulsive! I so hated tutoring! I said, “Good luck,” then slammed the door and locked myself into my bedroom. OMG! This was a nightmare! Mops could feel I was unhappy, so he licked my face.

I laughed and then patted his little head. I paced on the floor and then bit my nails nervously. How did Mama find out that I wasn’t learning anything? Would I have to pretend to want to learn something when I don’t want to learn it? That would be like lying.

I wrote a letter to my friends. I could not expect what they would say to me let alone if I would agree with them.

“I hope they have helpful advice,” I prayed. This fear stayed in me when I picked up my pen. I took a quill with fresh ink and wrote…

“Dearest friend,

I hope you don’t mind me asking. I have to get a new tutor, and Mama will not let me get away with not learning and studying. I don’t want to learn or study. How can I avoid this without Mama knowing?

Love,
Maria Antonia.”

This is what I got in my mail an hour later:

“Dear Antonia,

This is hard! I don’t know what to do with situations like these either. My best advice for you is to follow your heart. Do what you think is right. Trust.

Much love.”

So much for asking, what I got was useless advice! How could I follow my heart if I didn’t know what to do? I thanked her anyway. Next, I wrote a letter to my other friend.

“Dearest,

My parents are looking for a new tutor for me. I don’t want to get tutoring, and I don’t want to let my parents know that I’m not learning or studying, either. What should I do?

Love,
Antonia.”

“Dear Antonia,

I think you should consider who you’re putting first. If you want to listen to yourself, don’t study. If you want to please your parents, study with your tutor. The decision is up to you. Believe in yourself and face your fears.

Yours ever.”

That helped a little bit more. But who should I put first? If I put myself first, I would get whatever I want. I would not have to face studying for hours and hours. But, most of all, I didn’t want to let my parents down. They were doing this for my good, all the money they’d spent, and even my undeniable, lovable pug, Mops.

If I let them down, would they do this for nothing?

I felt a tug at my heartstrings. Suddenly, I made a decision. I would pretend to study, but I would copy the work with my bare hands. Then, Mama would never know I didn’t study! MWA-HAHA-HA!!!

Chapter Text

Chapter 7

1766

Papa passed away last summer, which was sad.

Eventually, Mama did find a tutor.

“You will address him by Sir Tutor,” Mama ordered.

Sir Tutor? No tutor has ever had a real name! Isn’t it weird? Since it was late breakfast time, we had brunch together. While polishing off a piece of buttered bread, I asked, “Well, what is Sir Tutor like?”

“Wise. And smart. You won’t be fooling around with him,” Mama always liked to include a lecture or lesson in her words.

“Also, I’ll be keeping a sharp eye on you EVERY. SINGLE. SECOND!!! And remember your manners. Do NOT forget it!”

“Really, Mama? Is this what you expect from an eleven-year-old like me?!” I complained.

“As if I wasn’t hard on all your other siblings? I am doing this because you are going to unite Austria and France. The Dauphin of France is close in age to you, so he is a perfect match. You will lead us someday,” Mama said.

Oh, this is the part I DO NOT get. What the heck? Lead? The future queen of France?! Although, I did remember Mama saying this to me nine years ago. That was a long time ago.

And, what did this have to do with tutoring? I don’t understand.

After breakfast, I went to my room and searched for my piggy bank. I had 56 guldens, but it was not enough for me to travel to a faraway place. Like… um… THE NEW ENGLAND COLONIES!!!

If I could, I would be able to escape my mother’s crazy plans for me and my tutoring. If I’m lucky enough, I could marry and have a family on my own. Then I won’t have to obey Mama all the time and marry the “future king of France”. For once, I was sick and tired of Mama’s high expectations.

Suddenly, there was a loud knock on my door. Elisabeth, Christina, Joseph, Carolina, Amalia, and Leopold came in.

“Guys! Why are you here?” I asked, surprised.

What were they doing?

“Oh, we’re sorry to bother you, Antonia, but we feel sorry for you, so we decided to cheer you up,” Amalia said. “We know your tutor’s coming tomorrow, so we’re planning a surprise party today!” Christina shouted excitedly.

“We’re doing all we can to make you happy!” Carolina added.

“We’re gonna have so much fun!” Elisabeth cried.

“We’ve got it, right?” Leopold high-fived Joseph.

“Yes. We are against tutoring!” Joseph shrieked.

“I can’t believe it! You guys are doing this all for me?!” I asked, shocked. I was so shocked I could barely speak.

“Uh-huh!” they said with enthusiasm.

“Thank you so much!” I squealed gleefully and pulled them all into a group hug. “I love you!” Whew. I wouldn’t have to hear needless reasons about having to get tutoring classes. “All right!” I shouted.

Suddenly my door opened. Josepha, Johanna, and Anna bounded into my room.

“We’re ready to party!” Johanna squealed.

“Okay!” I yelled. “Pillow fight!” I hurled a purple velvet plush at Carolina. She ducked, and it hit Joseph on the head. Amalia threw one at Elisabeth, and she caught it and threw it at Leopold. “Eat plush, DORK!” she screamed. It whopped Leopold on the behind. To get revenge, Leopold threw a faceplant at Elisabeth. Then he ran away to hit the other boys. Johanna threw a wild one at me, but luckily, I ducked and it ricocheted off the wall.

“Oh, no!” she whimpered. She quickly turned and - WHOP! It slammed against her!! Johanna tripped and suddenly snatched Amalia’s arm to regain her balance. It worked, kind of, but then Amalia got hit by Anna. The two tumbled to the floor and knocked Christina down. Unfortunately, she had a pillow in her hands. She was about to throw it, but when she was knocked down, the force caused the pillow to project through the air and knock Josepha on the head. Josepha screeched and fell over.

Leopold’s feet almost got crushed under Josepha’s body, and he fell over too. Joseph had a pillow in his hand, and Leopold fell on top of him. Joseph fell, and the pillow in his hand flew and landed on Johanna. Then I tripped over the pillow. Geez, Johanna. You shouldn’t have thrown that pillow.

“I win!” Anna yelped. She was the only one not victimized by Johanna’s pillow.

“No, I did too!” Elisabeth growled.

“So did I!” Carolina yelped with glee.

Oops. I was wrong about Anna.

I got up and brushed my gown. “All right, who wants to play Musical Pillows?” I shouted.

“I do!” everyone yelled.

I started playing my harpsichord. Then everyone marched to the music. A few seconds later, I stopped playing the music. Everyone hurried to grab a pillow. Elisabeth was the only one without a pillow. She went to the “You’re Out” place, which was my bed.

“No fair,” she muttered.

“Oh, Elisabeth, keep a positive attitude,” I said.

Elisabeth muttered a smile. I started the music after I pulled away two pillows. When I stopped, Anna and Josepha were out. I kept being the judge until everybody got out except for Joseph. Then I handed the harpsichord to Elisabeth because she was not enjoying Musical Pillows. I mean, she did not like playing, but maybe she would be fine with judging. We played Musical Pillows for a while, had lunch, played Tic-Tac-Toe, and continued having a pillow fight until supper.

When I sat down at the table, the first thing Mama asked was, “Antonia, did you study?” My brothers and sisters expressed alarm as if they were begging me to say that we did study. They mouthed words to me with their eyes as wide as saucers.

“Yes! I did! I studied a whole lot. So did my brothers and sisters. We studied so much, that we competed against each other on how much we knew. We pushed each other,” I lied without hesitation or a loss for words. My brothers and sisters gave me a look of relief and thanks. They looked so grateful.

“Yes, really! We did!” I added, trying to stop the concerning look of disbelief on Mama’s face.

“Really?! I can hardly believe it. Is this all true?!” Mama asked, kind of amused.

“Yes, it is!” we all said as one, staring at Mama. We could not stand her suspicion any longer, but luckily Mama quickly believed us.

“All right, fellas. I believe you,” Mama laughed.

YES!! I gave my siblings a look of triumph. My victory tastes sweet! Holy victory!! I had easily fooled Mama, the Great Empress of Austria, that we all did study. With the help of my brothers and sisters, I was far more powerful than Mama at this moment.

Sorry, Mama! Die from defeat and embarrassment! With my brothers and sisters’ help, I could have the power to do anything! Together forever! We will execute tutoring, studying, and learning!

Chapter Text

Chapter 8

The day I had feared has finally come. Yep! It was tutoring day. I had to wake up bright early at six! What? And go to sleep at twelve! Of course, I only got six hours of sleep every day. And, not only that, but I also had insomnia sometimes, which on bad nights reduced my sleep time to less than 17 minutes. So usually I was tired and could not focus, especially today. I had a tutoring class!!

If I dozed off, Mama would give me a huge punishment. She’d ask the tutor to confide the details of the class, or in other words, spy on me the entire time! Who does that? I think I have MAMAphobia!!!

If she did punish me for dozing, I’d tell her that she was the one who cut my sleep time short.

Anyway, I was completely shaking when it was almost time for my tutoring class. My stomach was groaning, too. Since I’d skipped breakfast, I was STARVING!!! I sat on the edge of my bed, trying to concentrate on my plan, when the door opened…

TATA! I knew it! They were my brothers and sisters!! I knew I could count on them.

“Well?! It’s your tutoring class, and we came up with an awesome plan!” Carolina giggled.

“Okay. Where’s the arithmetic sheet, reading sheet, writing sheet, grammar sheet, and history sheet?” Joseph asked.

“I have them in here, somewhere,” Anna replied, digging through her dress pockets. “Here!” She handed me scrolls and papyrus sheets of ink writing. “It’s worksheets I had when I was your age seventeen years ago. Use these sheets to copy the work,” Anna explained.

“I also have some advice. Your tutor is a fool, not ‘wise and smart’. Mama just said that because she wants to scare you into not fooling around. Tell the tutor you know everything for an eleven-year-old. Show him the worksheets. He’ll be impressed. I have some extra filled-in worksheets. Copy the work. I believe in you,” Elisabeth said, winking before she handed me the sheets.

“Oh, you guys are the BEST!!!” I squealed, hugging them. “I can NEVER thank you enough!”

“Oh, it was no big deal. We’ve had tutoring problems way too often in our lives,” Josepha shook her head from side to side and then smiled.

“But be careful. Mama’s always watching. And if there is no peephole, she’d watch by sitting next to you and the tutor inside your room! We’ll send you a signal whenever she comes by. At those moments, be on your best behavior,” Leopold warned.

“Okay, I will,” I promised. “Thanks.”

My brothers and sisters strolled out of my room. Now thanks to them, I had a trusty master plan and support system. My abilities were finally growing stronger.

So a few minutes later, when the tutor arrived, I wasn’t afraid at all.

“Don’t worry, Antonia! Just do the best you can!” I heard Carolina’s voice.

“Yes! Trust yourself!” I said to myself.

“Miss Antonia? Can you do the math problem on the paper?” Sir Tutor asked.

I looked closely at the problem. It was a very hard problem. It read, “b x 6 = ?” Ugh. I hate algebra. I don’t even know how to do long division!

Mama was right. I was way behind for a nine-year-old, not to mention an eleven-year-old. I didn’t even know how algebra worked. Suddenly I heard Elisabeth’s voice. “Use the sheet I gave you. All my answers are correct.”

Oh! Now I know what to do.

“I’m sure Mama is not watching. Just do it now!” Amalia urged.

“We’ve got your back, Antonia!” Joseph whispered.

I had hope now. I waited until Sir Tutor was not watching me and pulled out Elisabeth’s algebra answer sheet. I immediately saw b x 6 = 6b scribbled in black ink. I swiftly took my quill and wrote on the blank line: 6b.

Whew! That was a close call.

“Quick! Put the sheets away! Mama’s coming!” Christina whisper-shouted. Quick as a flash, I hid the scrolls of paper under my embroidered silk gown.

“Sir! I have the answer here!” I declared, sounding a little too loud and urgent. I showed him the answer.

“Very good! And how did you get the answer so fast?” Sir Tutor asked.

I opened my mouth, but no words came out. My brain froze for a few seconds. One more second and this mishap could blow my cover.

THINK!!

Thankfully, my siblings came to my defense. “Because since ‘b’ is the variable and it is multiplied by 6, there will be 6 of the ‘b’ variables,” Johanna whispered.

“B-Because, er…, because ‘b’ is a variable, and the equation is… 6 times ‘b’... then there… will be… 6 b’s!” I blurted.

“Wow, Antonia! You know a lot more than I expected you to know!” Sir Tutor praised, impressed. “Well, if you do know so much, we won’t have to continue our mathematics lesson.” Yay! I hate math. I didn’t even know how to do basic math, so I was so relieved when my nightmare of math was finally over.

“Okay. Turn to page sixty-seven in your grammar textbook,” Sir Tutor began.

“Remember,” Anna echoed, “Use those worksheets I gave you. Impress him!” Oh, right! Those sheets!

“You know,” I started, “I know all the things you’re about to teach me. My previous teacher had taught me all the things I needed to know, and I have the proof here. Right here!” I showed Sir Tutor Anna’s worksheets.

“Wow! I guess you do know everything! Smart little thing! I guess my job’s done today!” Sir Tutor exclaimed. Then he got up and started for the door.

“Bye!” I yelled. “Make sure to go out the back way! You know, the rear palace gate!” I wanted him to go that way because if Mama saw him, she would be like, “Sir, WHERE are you going, and WHY aren’t you tutoring Antonia?!” Then, no matter what answer Sir Tutor would give, my siblings and I would get into a humongous pit of trouble! Of course, I did not want that to happen. So what choice did I have?

When I went to thank my siblings for their help, Elisabeth winked at me again. “You didn’t get caught by Mama, not even close,” she winked.

“Wow!” I said, amazed. “You guys totally helped me. Otherwise, I would have gotten caught big time. Then I would have to get homeschooled by Mama herself, which would be a million times worse.”

“It was nothin’. We just got rid of some work by helping you. In fact, we should thank YOU,” Leopold grinned.

“Thank you so much, everyone. I’ll never forget what you’ve done to help me. This is a forever memorable blessing from my dearest friends: Anna, Amalia, Carolina, Christina, Elisabeth, Johanna, Josepha, Joseph, and Leopold.” After I finished my heartfelt speech, Mops came in to celebrate.

Although we have not gotten that far yet, someday, maybe, with the help of my dear brothers and sisters, we’ll put an end to tutoring, learning, and studying, once and for all.

Chapter Text

Chapter 9

“Antonia?”

“Antonia!!”

“Antonia!!!”

“ANTONIA!!!!”

“ANTONIA!!!!!!!!”

“ANTONIA!!!!!!!!!!”

“ANTONIA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

“Huh?!” I shouted, suddenly waking up.

“Antonia! Can you explain this to me?” Mama demanded. Oh, my. It was MAMA. If she had to wake me up in the middle of the night like that, the situation she needed me to explain had to be SERIOUS. I could tell it was not good, and I didn’t like it. My life had taken a turn for the worse.

“What’s the situation, Mama?” I asked, trying to stay calm.

Internally, I was screaming.

“Antonia, can you explain why Sir Tutor didn’t leave the palace after your session was over?” Mama demanded, looking impatient and angry.

“He left the back way. I had nothing to do with it!” I lied, shrugging and trying not to look nervous in the candlelight Mama shone on my face.

“Be honest, Antonia. I knew you had something to do with it. Did you hide him in your closet?” Mama asked. What in the world was she talking about?

“Come on, Mama. You know I would never do that. You can check if you don’t believe me,” I said.

“Really, Antonia! Do you expect me to do that?” Mama asked.

“Do it!” I insisted.

Mama tiptoed toward my closet and softly knocked on the door.

I rolled my eyes. Couldn’t she just open the door and see for herself instead of being like, “Hey! Who’s there? Antonia’s tutor? Please come out!” Did she really have the nerve to knock on my closet door like that?!

“Nope, Antonia,” Mama said. “No tutor.”

I shrugged. “He did go the back way,” I finished for her.

Mama stared at me for a long time, and I could feel her eyes boring into my soul. “Antonia… are you okay?”

“I’m fine!” I yelled. When could she stop worrying about me? Never!!!

“Did you study?” Mama asked.

“Yes! I did!” I screeched. “I don’t have any problem, Mama!”

“Really, Antonia!” Mama exclaimed.

“What?” I demanded.

“You need to calm down!”

“I am calm! You’re the one who screamed my name loud, waking me up and at least three of my siblings!” I retorted.

“Antonia! You’re crazy! How do you feel?” Mama asked.

“I’m not crazy! I feel just fine! However, I am sick and tired of being woken up in the middle of the night for no good reason! So please, just let me go to sleep!” I flopped down and buried my head in my pillow.

Mama sighed before leaving my room and shutting the door.

When alone, I lay flat on my back and stared at the ceiling. Click, click. The imaginary bomb inside my brain kept ticking, but I tried to fall asleep.

Oh, no! Not insomnia again! I could NOT fall asleep.

Around 5:30, I fell asleep for a few minutes. Almost a second later, that old clock of mine went off. I woke up and rubbed my back. Oh! I had a stupid headache and back pain. Thanks to Mama, I was so tired and cranky. I hate it when this happens.

When I sat down for breakfast, I could not eat my grilled ham and butter biscuit with romaine salad. I hated losing my appetite. I was starving but could not eat anything because of my poor appetite. Mama worried about me, but it was her fault. Thanks to her, I was sick, tired, and in absolutely no shape to attend class. Mama was worried about me, so she let me catch up on sleep and canceled my tutoring class. I had to give her credit for that, I admit.

Chapter Text

Chapter 10

1769

After three long years of studying with Sir Tutor, lying, cheating, and using my brothers and sisters, it was almost time for the big moment to come. I was almost fifteen years old, the age I will be leaving for… FRANCE!!

By now, I was excited. I was excited to get away from Mama and tutoring. Of course, she would ALWAYS be watching! Well, perhaps only sometimes. Not after she passes away.

Still, I do not appreciate her always stalking my business!

This morning, I arranged a different European breakfast with the royal cook, as I was bored with Fruhstuck in Osterreich.

“Would your mother Empress Maria Theresa mind?” the cook asked.

“No! Of course, she wouldn’t!” I replied. How did this have to do with Mama? We have Mama’s favorite breakfast every SINGLE DAY!! Could she not, for once, stop caring about herself and care for her poor sons and daughters instead?

It finally dawned on me that Mama was selfish, and I needed to get away from her grasp as soon as possible.

A few minutes later, it was time for breakfast. I had requested an English breakfast, so when we settled at the table, we got the whole package - fried eggs, bacon, grilled tomatoes, buttered toast, sausages, and baked beans with Yorkshire pudding and tea.

Everybody seemed satisfied with the food, except for Mama, that is.

“Who requested such a treacherous breakfast? Don’t you know that it is a sin for the Austrian imperial family to indulge in another nation’s staple food?” Mama demanded.

No one said anything.

“I will NOT allow my father’s word to be disobeyed!” she snapped.

‘So?’ I thought, smirking to myself. I felt like a hero. I had finally given Mama a taste of her own medicine.

Chapter Text

Chapter 11

“Oh, boy! The breakfast was delicious!” Amalia exclaimed. “How did Mama not like it?”

I shrugged. Then, I lowered my voice to a mustered whisper. “You know what? I arranged it,” I said quietly.

“You did?” Amalia asked.

“Yes. I did. I arranged with the cook because I was getting tired of Austrian breakfast. You promise you won’t tell Mama?”

“I promise. You know, we are all tired of our traditional Austrian breakfast. We feel that you made a big change in our lives,” Amalia smiled.

“It’s about time,” I said firmly.

“Time for what?” Amalia asked.

“Time for us to start following our dreams,” I answered.

“Oh? Like no tutoring? Do you think we can pull this off?” Amalia asked, laughing. She shook her head and giggled but then stopped herself and looked me in the eyes. “Had you been planning this rebellion all along? We’re happy to help, but there are some things we cannot do. All your other siblings and I can do is ease the stress for you. We cannot help you completely avoid your responsibilities, girl,” Amalia said, smiling weakly.

“Come on, Amalia! The ten or so of us make a PERFECT team! If we work together, we are sure to pull this off! Come on! We have to believe in ourselves!” I whined, practically shaking my sister.

“We’re all very sorry, Antonia. We’ve helped you long enough. You have to become more independent and to be fair, you do need some tutoring…” Amalia stammered. She had a look of pity on her face behind the smile.

I sighed. Another hope is gone. I thought us working together to eradicate tutoring was going to be EASY! Of course, it could be easy, but the CONVINCING part was more than difficult!

“Are you okay, Antonia? We’re still going to help you but not like before. It’s for your good and your future,” Amalia reassured me. “Well, thanks for requesting the breakfast!” She left my room.

I sighed again. What was I supposed to do now?! I was truly on my own, and I needed a plan.

Sometime in the afternoon, I heard voices in the hall. I think it was Mama and her close friend having a serious conversation.

“But, is it true that this happened?” the friend asked, sounding unsure.

Before I knew it, the conversation turned to ME. “Yes! It’s true! Antonia is such a wicked girl,” Mama retorted.

WHAT?! OMG! I was SO mad, I wanted to jump out of my room and PUNCH Mama in the face!!! No one dared to say I am a wicked girl. Certainly, I am NOT!! And everyone KNOWS I’m very sensitive about that.

MAMA!! I HATE YOU!!

“What? That little archduchess? She could not do such a thing!” her friend protested, defending my innocence.

“But she did! The cook told me about it!” Mama argued.

“You cannot just believe everything!” she stuttered.

“I DO believe this!! She’s been mean to me ever since she became a teenager!” Mama ranted.

“How come?”

“She always yells at me! Also, she plots against me and teams up with her brothers and sisters to cheat in her tutoring classes!” Mama spat. OMG!! How did she know?! Did Amalia break her promise to secrecy? No. Did my brothers and sisters expose our secret plan? No. Did the cook answer why we had the English breakfast instead of Fruhstuck in Osterreich? No, of course not! I knew for a fact that Mama never asked the cook anything.

The only answer was that Mama spied on me, my brothers, and my sisters, read my diaries, checked my entire bedroom, and sent spies to discover everything I’d done.

I had to admit, Mama was so sly, she was SCARY!! The one thing I so HATED was the fact that people had the nerve to SPY on me. My life is NONE of their business!

So, of course, I was ticked when I knew my OWN mother would spy on me. Like, who does that? Only a manipulative, despicable, and psychotic PSYCHOPATH!! I was so angry at so many people now, that my head felt like it would explode.

This time, I was truly on my own. No brothers, no sisters. I was on my own against the wrath of Mama and her expectations. I could no longer drag my siblings into this mess. If I did, thanks to Mama and her spying skills, they would end up much more trouble than me! I could not let that happen before every one of my siblings was victimized by Mama’s wrath of death!

Chapter Text

Chapter 12

“Wake up, lazyhead,” Mama nudged me. I opened my eyes and found myself glaring into Mama’s beady eyes.

“Get up, make your bed, brush your teeth, and go down to breakfast. Don’t you dare change the meal course,” Mama ordered, pointing at me.

With a heavy moan, I dragged my sheets and covered my head with a pillow.

“Antonia! This is getting old! Get up!!!” Mama snapped, pulling off my sheets and pillow with one yank.

“Oh, yeah? You’re an empress with more than ten children, ruling over all the people in the Holy Roman Empire. Out of all of them, you would choose ME to bother?! You’re not even supposed to enter my room! What do you think I am - three years old?! I am FOURTEEN! I can make decisions for myself!! Don’t think you’re so high and mighty just because you are the ruler!” I spat, giving Mama the side eye with a sneer.

Oops. I hit a nerve, I think. Mama looked stunned. “Well, for your information, as the ruler, I have the power to command you to do whatever I want. I inherited the throne from my father, and I have the right. Antonia, you are a mere archduchess, the youngest daughter of mine. Who are you to tell me what I can and cannot do? I tell you to get up, so get up!!” Mama said sharply.

“Fine! I’ll get up as soon as you GET OUT!” I yelled. Clearly, Mama was not getting the point. If she truly is the great and kind ruler she thinks she is, how come she acts like a tyrant? Why does she choose me to boss around amongst all people?

Finally, Mama gave up. She growled and stormed out of my room. I smiled to myself. I had not realized how determined I was until that moment. I had defeated another of Mama’s attacks! I could not wait to tell my brothers and sisters. They’d be so proud of me.

After a few minutes, I sat up and stretched my arms. I pushed off the covers and got out of bed. I found a light blue silk waist gown adorned with diamonds and a periwinkle-ruffled skirt. I threw on a petticoat and dressed myself. Smiling, I trotted to the bathroom by the east wing. I knew today would be a good day.

Soon, after I brushed my teeth, I settled for breakfast. This time, we were served vegetable medallions with mashed potatoes and Swedish meatballs. Yes! It’s NOT Fruhstuck in Osterreich! I guess the cook understood the assignment.

Mama was so angry with the food that she, all of a sudden, threw her platter on the floor in anger. “I quit!” She stormed out of the dining room and headed for the kitchen! Uh-oh. Whatever she was going to do didn’t look good. I worried that she was planning to sell me to another family. However, I put my worries aside and continued eating my breakfast. I could hear Mama arguing with the cook since we were eating on the main floor.

“Well, I asked for a traditional Austrian breakfast!” Mama screamed.

“But, she’s a nice little thing…” the cook stammered.

“I don’t care! I fire you!”

“Well?! Well, GO!!!” Mama shrieked. The cook suddenly screamed and was thrown out of the kitchen, slamming into the back double doors and hitting his head hard.

“WELL, I SAID, ‘GET OUT OF MY PALACE!’ NOW!!! YOU BROKE THE LAW AND HAVE COMMITTED TREASON AGAINST ME!!! I NEVER, EVER WANT TO SEE YOU AGAIN!!! DO YOU HEAR ME?!! I FORBID YOU ENTER THIS EMPIRE EVER AGAIN! NOW LEAVE! NOW!!!” Mama screeched. Then she kicked the disoriented cook in the seat of his pants with the edge of her high-heeled shoe. The cook yelped in pain but was silenced when Mama whacked him over the head with his frying pan.

Her guards immediately swarmed the cook and flung him into some thorny bushes outside.

“Trust me, if I or my subjects ever find you again within the boundaries of this empire, you will be HANGED!” Mama threatened. Then she turned to her guards. “Guards, if you ever catch sight of this man again, when the sun rises tomorrow morning, swear to it that you will bring him back to me for his execution. Prepare the gallows.”

Mama gave her servants orders. “Dispose of the food and scrub all the plates squeaky clean. Not a trace of Swedish! Hurry up and cook us some lunch! I am about to starve to DEATH!”

“Yes, Empress,” they answered.

Then Mama eyed me coldly. “Antonia. You are grounded for a month.”

Chapter Text

Chapter 13

“Antonia?!” Mama called.

“Go away!” I shot back. I hid under my covers.

“Listen to me.” Mama grabbed my covers and jerked my chin towards her. “If you weren’t my daughter, I’d have sentenced you to death! You are a foolish girl.”

“How did you know? Did you spy on me?” I demanded.

“No, I simply kept an eye on you,” Mama said. Same difference!

“Well,” Mama continued. “I know for sure that you will become the queen of France in the future. You will keep the ties between Austria and France strong, especially in war. You will marry the dauphin of France, Louis Auguste. But first, you must learn French. I hired a tutor from France. His name is Vermond, and he’ll teach you the French language, French literature, French history, and French customs. While you receive your education, I will prepare you to become a fine French princess.”

What?! More tutoring? Oh, no.

At the same time, my desire to become a French queen was growing stronger.

Mops gave me a whine.

“Leave her alone,” Mama said to Mops.

“All right,” I finally said. “I’ll do as you wish.”

Hey, at least we won’t be having Fruhstuck in Osterreich until tomorrow morning!

Chapter Text

Chapter 14

Three weeks later, I met Vermond for the first time.

“You know,” Elisabeth said. “I wish I could be a French princess.”

“I know,” I replied.

“Antonia! The tutor’s here! Mama called.

“Oh! See you later, Elisabeth!” I said. I rushed up the spiral staircase and dove into my room. For once, I was eager to learn. I opened the top drawer of my desk and got out my new French dictionary, pronunciation guide, grammar and language workbook, French history textbook, French literature books, French writing workbooks, and notebooks. In all these years of boring tutoring, I was excited to learn French.

Vermond entered my room. He looked around and found me sitting in my armchair, then nodded politely. He was the PERFECT gentleman and tutor!

He sat on my bed. “Bonjour, Antonia,” he said.

“What?” I asked. What did he say?

“Bonjour. It means ‘hello’ in French.”

Oh, now I get it.

“Open to page 5 in your grammar book. Vermond sternly tapped my grammar and language book with his baton. He was polite and strict at the same time! I liked that! I flipped to page 5 in my book. The title of the page read, “French Greetings”. I found the word “Bonjour” in the book.

“Bon-jou. Say it,” Vermond said.

“Bon-jou. Bonjour,” I said.

“The definition.” Vermond took my dictionary and flipped to a page. “A friendly greeting you’d use to welcome someone,” he read.

“Spell bonjour?” he asked.

“B-O-N-J-O-O?” I asked, uncertain. I was a TERRIBLE speller, so please, don't ask me to spell a WORD.

"Nuh-uh," Vermond corrected me. "Not quite. French isn't always spelled the same way as it is pronounced. For instance, if you pronounce bonjour the way it is spelled, it will sound like "Bone-jor". So, it is spelled B-O-N-J-O-U-R."

Oh, well. Excuse me. That is hard! It just didn't make sense to me. It's only been the first day of tutoring, and I was already frustrated.

I should not give up. Perhaps, it gets better.

Chapter Text

Chapter 15

Two months passed. By now, I knew more than 5,000 French words and their pronunciation. I also learned French folktales and fables.

Now, I am learning about history.

I had suffered a foot injury from the ballet classes I started taking recently. It was clearing up now, so I continued to practice ballet.

My ballet instructor had taught me turns, jumps, and different routines. It’s been very hard to dance in those special shoes.

Even after a whole month of practice, I still was not graceful enough. I had trouble with adagio.

Usually, I have to go as fast as I can to keep my balance. With adagio, I would shake and sway like a wobbly brick towel, which always brings me no avail.

The falling catastrophes usually took place when I did pirouettes, arabesques, and jetes. Mama’s “preparations” for me had gotten me nowhere. I had recently told Mama about the situation, but all she did was get me some new ballet slippers and told me to lose some weight.

Today, I was practicing my pirouette on my toes.

I was in my dance shoes, corset, and hoop skirts. I stood in front of my mirror. “All right, concentrate, Antonia. When you spin, keep your raised foot in the same place. Move not too slowly and not too swiftly,” I said to myself. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath.

“Now!” I spun three times, but my lifted foot continued to move. I tried again, but the same thing happened. I was not about to give up, though. I started in fourth position, gave my foot a huge jerk to my leg, and twirled. I was doing fine until my balance gave out.

I wobbled and toppled over my bed, headfirst to the floor.

“AAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!!” I shrieked.

Mops, who sat in the corner, barked and scrambled out of my room.

“Ugh!” I howled. This was getting pathetic. How come I keep biting the floor?! “Come on, Antonia!” I complained.

If I wasn’t going to complete this, there would be no way I would ever become queen. I had to do this.

I sighed, frustrated, and dragged myself toward the mirror. I tried once more, and this time, I did it! I spun, with everything in place, gracefully and swiftly as could be. It was PERFECT!! Oh, wow! Look at me go!

Yep! I think I was right about being persistent and sagacious.

"Yes! I will SUCCEED!!" I cried happily. Then I ran over to my chaise and collapsed, spreading out my arms in glee. I squealed. I suddenly felt exhausted. I yawned. Maybe it's time for a nap.

Chapter Text

Chapter 16

Yesterday, I finished my first history unit. I studied my Bible and worked on another section of literature before writing drafts in French. By the time I finished tutoring class, I thought my hand was going to break from all the writing. I, again, like always, took another nap.

Today, Mama entered my room. I think she had important plans for me. “Come, Antonia, for your beauty treatment,” she said.

I remained silent and nodded. I wondered what kind of beauty treatment I would receive. I had a hunch.

I followed Mama down the stairs to the Main Floor. I walked into a little room that looked like a posh salon. There was a pull-out couch, a fancy mirror, and some wooden cabinets.

“I got a Frenchman to fix your teeth. I recently noticed that your teeth are getting crooked, and I think he might solve the problem,” Mama explained.

The dentist smiled. I smiled back. Kind of.

“Antonia, I’m out to do some paperwork with your brother Joseph. If you need me, I’ll be in the north wing!” Then Mama left.

I took a seat on the fold-out couch, lay down, and stared at myself in the mirror.

“Good morning, Archduchess Antonia. I have to straighten your teeth with a few tools. It’s going to take a bit, but it won’t be long,” the dentist said.

Okay. Easy-peasy for me.

The dentist opened his cabinet and removed a wire. “Open your mouth, Antonia.” He wrapped a wire around the top of my front teeth. Then he got out some more wires and continued doing this with the other sides of my teeth. When he was done, he closed his cabinet.

“The wires have to stay for at least a day. Don’t eat or drink anything during that time,” he told me. Then he got some kind of dental cream and rubbed it on my teeth. “It will help.”

Later Mama took me to a French hairstylist from Paris on the Main Floor. The hairstylist wore a powdered wig, a long coat, and expensive shoes with buckles. “Hi, Antonia, I’m going to style your hair in the prettiest and most modern ways, starting from today. Every day, I will do so, ending the day you leave for France,” The hairstylist said warmly. Wow. Now, every day was packed with busy schedules.

Eat breakfast.

Style hair.

Lessons with Vermond.

Lunch.

Royal meetings.

More lessons with Vermond.

Ballet lessons.

Dinner.

Sleep.

And who knows how busy my schedule is going to be when I’m QUEEN?! Like, a thousand times more busy!!! The hairstylist combed my hair until it was all neat. Then he tucked some of my curls to the top of my head and secured them with bobby pins. He made these lines in my strawberry blonde hair and tucked my hair in again. Finally, he secured the rest of my hair in a braided bun at the back.

“Perfect!” the hair stylist declared. “A perfect French hairstyle! Voila!”

I looked at the perfect image of myself in the mirror. The hairstyle completely complimented my appearance. It was perfect. It made my pale skin fair, my blue eyes direct, and my strawberry blonde hair accented. I thought I looked charming.

“You’re all ready,” the hairstylist smiled and smoothed my hair.

“The hair is perfect. Thank you.” I looked at myself once more. “Farewell! See you tomorrow!” I waved. “Au revoir!”

“Oui!” the hairstylist waved back. “Au revoir!”

My preparations were perfect. So was my beauty treatment. I felt more beautiful than ever! Oh, please. I am so not vain about it. Anyway, I’d better hurry up for my tutoring class!

Chapter Text

Chapter 17

“Antonia, congratulations!” Mama gave me a big hug. I was reading a French storybook when Mama and Vermond bounded in. “I think Vermond has something to say.”

OMG! What kind of good news could THIS be? It is time to find out.

“I can see that Antonia has improved over time. She is studying very hard and is very diligent. She has the most graceful figure, holds herself well, and if… she grows a little taller, she will possess every good quality one could wish for in a great princess,” Vermont observed, smiling and nodding at me.

That was news to me. I thought I wasn’t very focused and acted clumsy. It seems that that wasn’t how people thought of me after all! Yippee! I was half-expecting Vermond to:

Throw off his head.

Throw away his book.

AND:

Scream, “I DON’T WANT TO TEACH ANTONIA ANYMORE!!!”

Heh-heh. That would be funny. I felt that I was growing into a fine French princess, worthy to be the next queen of France. It was going to be AWESOME!

Mama had already arranged the official ceremonies with the French ambassador, feasts, balls, carriages, coaches, concerts, theatre performances, hosts, attendants, chefs, hairdressers, bells, fireworks, gowns, and the wedding that would take place on May 16, 1770.

I just had to complete a couple of examinations, and it would all be done. Then I would begin my royal, luxurious, and fancy life as the dauphine of France.

I hope to enjoy the rest of my life in France, and I hope to get more out of life with faith.

Chapter Text

Chapter 18

1770

Today was the day I had always looked forward to. It had finally arrived! Yes! It was April 15, 1770. In six days, I will be leaving for FRANCE!! I would meet King Louis XV, attend the celebrations, marry the dauphin, Louis Auguste, and wait to become QUEEN!

All right. I told myself to not get too excited. Still. I burst out of bed, super excited. I got dressed in my finest clothes. I found a lacey chemise, a ruffled corset and waist gown, and a turquoise petticoat with a matching floral blue skirt. I rocked the outfit with a pair of silk stockings and blue velvet jewel-encrusted stilettos. When I finished dressing, I did not bother making my bed. I rushed to the bathroom, took a fresh shower, and dashed downstairs for breakfast.

“Good morning, Antonia. I’ve seen you wear that outfit once. It’s so fashionable,” Mama said when she saw me. Uh-huh! One of my goals as the future queen was to try to improve the fashion world with my edge-cutting inner fashionista.

“Thank you, Mama,” I curtsied. Anna giggled and winked. Joseph and Leopold sat there solemnly. I took the grand seat at the table across from Mama. I took a sip of my earl grey tea and looked up.

I had not realized this before, but all eyes were glued on me, even Mops’. Oh… Oh!

I was nervous whenever this happened. I squirmed in my seat, straightened my back, and nodded at them. It did not help. They kept staring at me with big, insane eyes and smiles. I thought that I was surrounded by some kind of WEIRD CIRCUS!! This went on forever until the servants finally served our yummy croissants, macarons, pastries, and sandwiches.

“French delicacies for our girl, Antonia. It is a special day for you, my dear Antonia,” Mama announced, her icy blue eyes twinkling with pride. OMG, I guess Mama finally decided to break her “Austrian tradition” about food. At least she did it for me.

YAY ME!!!

I bit into a warm croissant. OMG! It was soooooo HOT!!! Hot and delicious! “This is the best thing I ever had!” I gushed.

Mama laughed. “Yes, dear. You’ll be a decent French queen if you like croissants!” she joked. She went on. “So you know, Antonia, the royal French ambassador is coming today.”

I nodded. When I finished breakfast, I started for the Main Floor. Remember the hairstylist?

When I opened the door leading to the tiny hairstyling parlor, the hairstylist greeted me with a warm smile. “Good morning, Antonia. Today I will style your hair in one of the most popular French styles with rolls. Sit back and relax,” the hairstylist said. I found my favorite chair and sat down.

The hairstylist combed my hair and tied small curly knots at the back of my head. I wore a barrette separating the loose part of my hair and the knotted part. When he had finished styling my hair, the hairstylist stopped me for a moment. “Antonia, good luck becoming a French princess. There are a lot of hairstyles you may like to sport,” he smiled.

“Thank you,” I laughed, nodding.

I turned and exited the room with a wave of warmth and happiness. Today was going to be perfect.

Chapter Text

Chapter 19

I was in the courtyard of our palace, Habsburgs, waiting for the royal ambassador to come. My entire household was there, too. The musicians played melodic music from their trumpets, flutes, harps, and cellos. Some guests from around the empire attended. Isn’t this exciting? I would have done so much for this moment.

At last, a carriage pulled into Vienna. “OMG! It’s the French ambassador!” I exclaimed. I rushed up to the square where the carriage stopped. The two royal escorts and five guards escorted the regal ambassador out of the golden jeweled carriage. I smiled warmly and gave my deepest curtsy. Then I blushed and batted my eyelashes in a bashful way. The ambassador bowed.

“Miss Antonia,” the ambassador began, unrolling a scroll. “It is decreed that you shall be now called Marie Antoinette, the French version of Maria Antonia”. How quaint.

He continued reading off the scroll. “It is my greatest honor to introduce you to the royal Bourbon family, as I represent them.”

He held out his hand. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Marie Antoinette. It shall now be your official name. Now, let us begin the ceremonies!”

Crack! Fizz! Boom! The fireworks began, and the attendants prepared the ceremony. A feast was being served, and the ball had begun. The band and orchestra played, and glasses of champagne were served. I was enjoying myself so much.

I giggled with my friends, flirted with some of the gentlemen, and indulged in strawberry mousse cake. The cake was just a regular sponge cake with a creamy layer and chunky frozen strawberries. On top is a creamy pink strawberry mousse coated with fresh strawberries. It’s delicious. I even have a recipe for it.

I hoped that when I became queen, I would get to relax all day, host parties, and eat sweet treats. There would be no studying, working, or stress! It would be like heaven. I swear, I will make that dream come true. Wait and see.

I danced and danced the entire afternoon, chatting with the ambassador and making remarks about becoming queen. My brothers and sisters were also dancing and having fun.

“Antonia, who knew today could be so much fun?” Elisabeth exclaimed while we danced. I danced and squealed a satisfied “me!” Hey, she’s right. Who knew the path of becoming queen could be so fun and exciting?! YAY ME!!!

Chapter Text

Chapter 20

Over the days, there were feasts, balls, and, of course, parties. It was all in honor of my journey as an Austrian princess becoming a French dauphine. I would be moving from Vienna, Austria, to Strasbourg, France. Talk about the excitement! It was exciting if you ask me.

We held a final celebration to celebrate the wedding to come.

There was a big buffet, a giant concert, a majestic play, and a massive ball.

Today was the day my two-and-a-half-week trip began. The day has come. I was going to be QUEEN!!! I sported a light turquoise silk gown adorned with layers of flowery silk. I wore my best shoes with the shimmery silver satin on them. I also wore a diamond necklace, piercing sapphire earrings, and a bracelet with my initials: MA.

“Ohh, I can’t wait!” I exclaimed to my brothers and sisters.

“Goodbye, Antonia. We’re all going to miss you,” Carolina sniffed. Johanna nodded. Leopold agreed.

Everybody looked sad.

“Don’t worry. We’ll always stay in touch,” I reassured them.

“You’ll never come back to Austria again!” Christina said.

“I promise I’ll never forget you,” I said hugging my siblings. I couldn’t believe it. I loved them SO much! They had always stayed by my side and helped me overcome my greatest fears, not to mention making my tutoring easier. They had always supported me, and now it was parting time.

After breakfast and hairdressing, I rushed outside, waiting for my carriage. At last, the golden carriage arrived. It was beautifully jeweled. A procession of more than fifty coaches drawn by horses followed.

“Goodbye,” Carolina hugged me.

“Never forget us,” Elisabeth said.

“Farewell,” Anna said.

Amalia, Josepha, Christina, Johanna, and the others nodded.

“We’ll always be in your heart,” Leopold said. Joseph hugged me.

Finally, Mama said goodbye. “Farewell, my dear Antonia. A great distance will part us. Do so much good to the French people that they can say that I have sent them an angel.”

“Goodbye, Mama,” I said, and with one final glance at my family, I stepped into my carriage. It was chilly outside, but it was warm inside the carriage. I felt delighted. I was leaving for France to become QUEEN and enjoy life there. I was SO joyful.

The long procession of carriages finally started to move. The horses pulling my carriage pranced and started forward. The carriage shook. I’ve never been in a carriage this shaky before.

“Bye! Bye! Bye, Antonia!” I heard everyone shout.

I peeked out of the window and waved.

Then I sat back and started organizing my belongings. My pug, Mops, was also sent along with me. I carried spare clothes, food, water, bandages, and other baggage. I knew this would be a long trip. I wanted to confirm I had everything. If I did not take something, it was too late to return and get it.

The Habsburg palace faded into view. It was beginning to get boring, so I decided to take some rest. Why not enjoy a nap before becoming QUEEN?! I don’t see why not!

Chapter Text

Chapter 21

Today was my fourth day traveling. I left the lounging place we were staying overnight, stepped into my carriage, and continued traveling. Once we had crossed into the neighboring city-state, every single time we stopped, concerts and performances took place. Many people wanted to see me. Of course, every once and then, I stepped out of my carriage to greet my fans.

It was exhausting. Why do people always want to see me? It’s not as if I'm a famous person or anything. Whether I was tired or not, I still had to act bright and happy for my admirers. What kind of girl in her right mind would throw a hissy fit in front of her adoring fan club just because she was tired?!

When people rushed up to me, I plastered on a fake smile and stepped out to talk to them. This morning, we stopped at a village. Peasants and townspeople pounded the ground as they rushed forward. My carriage immediately stopped. The horses gave a slight whinny, and Mops looked kind of mortified.

“Don’t worry,” I told him. “It’s my fan club. They won’t do any harm.” I reached over and petted Mops on the head. Mops barked and then dashed out the window. Before I could react, he was running away.

“Oh, drat!” I exclaimed and quickly dashed out of my carriage. Everybody looked at me, shocked and surprised. Why was the dauphine chasing around a dog like that? It was like I had just broken out of a mental hospital.

“Mops! Come back!” I shrieked, chasing the dog. I finally caught up to him and snatched him like a sack of potatoes. Then I headed for my carriage. People rushed over to me.

“Marie Antoinette! I love her!”

“Oooh! Let me through!”

“Is that the princess?!”

“She’s so beautiful!”

Those were the people shouting and squealing as they climbed over each other to get to me.

“Hi, people! I’m Marie Antoinette, the future queen of France! You might want to get to know me better. How good it is to be the Dauphine of France!”

I smiled widely and flipped my hair before stepping inside my carriage again.

We continued the trip, and I stopped to blow air kisses to admirers. It was very tiring, but I pretended to be enthusiastic. Admirers came and went, and the trip continued on and on until it was evening. I was super tired from traveling.

The road to becoming queen could be tough. For the evening, we took refuge at a palace. It was better than a monastery. The rooms were luxurious with wide hallways and a brightly lit dining room. I arranged with my attendants and chefs.

There would be more concerts and plays in my next fourteen days of traveling. While I arranged with my attendants, the chefs prepared meats, eggs, soups, fish, vegetables, sauces, and desserts.

After two more weeks, I would finally arrive in France and begin my life there.

Chapter Text

Chapter 22

The procession finally arrived at the border between France and Austria by the Rhine River. I felt very delighted. I couldn’t wait to meet the people of France. OMG! I bet they couldn’t wait to meet me either.

Most of all, I wanted to see what it looked like in France. It must be very luxurious.

“Marie Antoinette, it’s time for you to be escorted,” my footman said. Oh! I was getting transferred to a new carriage.

I turned to all my attendants and made a farewell address. “Goodbye, my people. You have taken great care of me since I was two and made sure I was comfortable on my trip. Now the time has come. I must say my final goodbye. Goodbye, everyone,” I said tearfully. I was getting very sad. It would be lonely in France, although my friends in Austria promised to keep in touch.

Each attendant said their goodbyes until it was time to go. With a happy smile, I grabbed Mops, gathered my luggage, and headed out of my carriage. The moment I was waiting for drew nearer and nearer. I took a deep breath and plastered on a smile. I walked toward the gates with my head held high. The gates opened, and I found myself to the cheerful faces of my new French attendants.

“Bonjour, Marie Antoinette. Welcome to France. We are sorry to inform you that you cannot bring any of your Austrian belongings over the border. We will change you into a new gown,” one attendant said.

WHAT?! That meant I was not allowed to keep anything I packed! The worst part was that I had to lose somebody else - my trusty, loyal pet MOPS!

Now I was going to be more lonely than EVER.

“Oh. Okay,” I finally replied calmly. I slowly unfastened my gown. Then the attendants undid my hoop skirts, panniers, and whalebone strips until all that was left was my light pink chemise. My attendants helped me out of my chemise and into the new white French gown that they provided me. It fit perfectly. For some reason that I didn’t know, though, I didn’t like it that much.

I gave up my luggage to my attendants, which was to be returned to Austria. Then I hugged Mops really tight. My eyes filled with tears. “Goodbye, my baby. Goodbye,” I whispered to Mops. Mops would be returned to my family in Austria as well.

I handed him over to my attendants.

I looked around the room. The room was dedicated with rugs, tapestry, and furniture borrowed from nearby wealthy families.

Not my family.

I straightened my posture, steadied myself, and headed to the exit. As soon as I passed the gates, I was surrounded by the French people. Suddenly, bells started to chime a merry tune. Bright fireworks exploded in the sky with booms and fizzes, celebrating my arrival. This was it. I was in Strasbourg, France. A new chapter in my life had begun.

I strolled down the path like it was a runway. Some flower girls threw flowers in my way like it was a wedding. Of course, I collected them. It was all in my honor. A lot of nobles greeted me with smiles, hugs, and air kisses. Of course, there were a few onlookers who did not look too pleased, but I ignored them. I raised my head high, smiled, and strutted as the people parted to make way for me.

I nodded at each and every one of the villagers, noblemen, noblewomen, flower girls, attendants, musicians, actors, jesters, and clergymen. Some people raised flags with the words “Our dauphine!” or “Marie Antoinette” written on them. I took kindly to it all.

“Bonjour, world!” I squealed really loud. Hey, I meant to attract ATTENTION!

That day, I was so overwhelmed with emotion, but I tried to be valiant. I had to be brave. The journey was not over yet. An official ceremony was held to celebrate my new French identity. I had to travel another 250 miles to Versailles, where the king and Louis Auguste awaited me. The ceremony began. Bands and orchestras started to play. The entire crowd gathered to one side of the square. The French ambassador, who I spoke to not too long ago, represented me.

“Welcome Marie Antoinette, formerly Maria Antonia of Austria. I, as the ambassador, will orchestrate the ceremony declaring her official French identity.” He turned and looked at me. “I declare you, Marie Antoinette, as one of the people of France!”

Isn’t it splendid? Totally, hon!

The French people paraded around the square with French flags flown in my honor. When the ceremony ended a few hours later, a carriage pulled up in the street of Strasbourg. A procession of other carriages followed. The coachman jumped off his seat and rushed to open the carriage door.

“Marie Antoinette, your chariot is here!” the French ambassador informed.

While my attendants scrambled into the other carriages, I slowly and gracefully stepped into my carriage. I waved goodbye to the French people of Strasbourg. The horses pulling my carriage started to trot. My dream was finally coming true. I had finally arrived in France and was making my way towards becoming a dauphine of France and later the queen of France. I could hardly wait.

Chapter Text

Chapter 23

OM to the G! I FINALLY arrived at Versailles, my new homeland. You know, my palace should have originally been at the Tuileries, but Louis XIV wanted to move his home to Versailles, as he should.

I could see the king and Louis from my carriage window. They were waiting for me on the road.

“Ready when you are, Madame,” said the coachman.

I stepped out of my carriage and straightened myself.

People nearby bowed their heads and curtsied.

I rushed up to the king and gave him my deepest curtsy. The king smiled and bowed to me, then helped me up. He nodded politely and kissed my cheeks in welcome. I turned to Louis.

OMG! I had written a letter to him, but I never knew what he looked like. While the king was regal and handsome, Louis was chubby, clumsy, and shy. Oh! The things he told me about being awkward and shy in his letter were really true! I curtsied again.

Louis smiled and looked delighted, yet he only whispered a small “hi”. We shared a small chaste kiss. I needed to get to know him better, especially since we were practically strangers soon to be married.

Chapter Text

Chapter 24

I spent my nights in the first-floor apartments of the Queen. Guess what? I’m marrying Louis Auguste TODAY!! Woo-hoo!

I needed to get ready, however. I woke up at 9:00, brushed my teeth, and took a bath. Then I ate breakfast. I put on my golden French gown and shoes.

My attendants took care of me and handed me my wedding gifts. They were jewels, pearls, a diamond fan, lots of bracelets, and pear-shaped earrings.

“Wow, I love them!” I exclaimed, taking the gifts.

“They’re brilliant, right? Ah, right now, we have to prepare you for the wedding,” one attendant said.

“Come along,” the other attendant said.

I followed her to the dressing room. There, the attendants started gathering clothing items and accessories.

“Madame, where is the white satin gown?” the attendant asked another of the attendants.

“It’s in the closet right here,” one of the head attendants, walking over to the closet to remove the gown. She held it to me so I could see. It was gigantic and nicely frilled with white silks, satins, and lace. A bow covered the front. A line of satin was tied around the waist. I could hardly wait to try it on!

“It’s your wedding gown, Princess,” the attendant said. They helped me remove my golden French gown and ease into the multiple layers of the wedding gown. It fits just right! It was PERFECT!

Then came the hair.

“Sit there on the chair,” the attendant who was responsible for hairdressing ordered. I sat down. “This might take a few hours. Sit still.” The attendant brushed my hair. She braided a thin piece of my hair. Then she braided the opposite side. She strapped the braids together. Small curls were pinned up to my head, and hair extensions were added. It took a very long time. After it was done, they powdered my hair liberally.

Jewels, pearls, and feathers were added, one by one. The veil was placed. It had white flowers embroidered onto the fabric.

“Ah, there!” the attendant exclaimed. “It is time to accessorize!” A fringe of lace was clipped onto my round neckline. Pearls and jewels were placed around my throat and wrists.

“Voila! This is the best gown I have ever seen!” the attendant bragged.

The makeup came next. The attendants used a brow pomade and lined my eyes with kohl. White scented powder coated my face, and a tinge of rouge danced on my cheeks. Luscious layers of lipstick adorned my look. A spray of rose-scented perfume finished the touch.

“Here you are, your shoes, Madame,” one of the ladies said, handing me a pair of the most beautiful white high-heeled shoes with bows.

“Wow! I love these shoes!” I gushed. I slipped my feet into them.

“Well, I am glad you like them. The wedding is soon to start, so let us get moving!”

“Oh, yes! Thank you!” I answered quickly.

I saw Louis standing in his golden diamond habit at the King’s Cabinet. He took my hand. Butterflies filled my stomach.

There were thousands of people at the Royal Chapel when we arrived. Noblemen and noblewomen clapped and cheered. We definitely did not want to be late, especially when we were guests of honor. It was OUR wedding day, after all.

I smiled as we knelt beneath the altar. The wedding ceremony began. I could tell Louis was nervous because he kept looking between me and the floor. He smiled bashfully.

“In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy spirit,” the priest began.

“Amen,” we responded.

After the priest delivered his monologue, it was time to recite our wedding vows. “I, Louis-Auguste, take you, Marie-Antoinette, to be my wife. I promise to be faithful to you, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and honor you all the days of my life,” Louis promised.

We were no longer strangers from faraway places anymore. We were newlyweds. Louis and I held each other’s hands, smiling at one another. My dream had finally come true. I just had to wait to become queen.

I am a dauphine now! Hurray! Since the wedding was over now, Louis and I got to enjoy the festivities! We enjoyed a delicious feast at the Royal Opera House.

It was so much better than Mama’s old favorite Fruhstuck in Osterreich. The feast consisted of lobster, oysters, shrimp, pheasant, quail, venison, veal pies, bread and cheese, pate, foie gras, smoked meats, jellies, candied fruits and nuts, madeleines, custard, and cream cakes with hot chocolate, champagne, and wine. I devoured platters of salmon and pheasant!

Louis was a big eater too. He enjoyed the generous assortment of meats and French breads.

The dessert was even better. I had caramel macarons and a rich chocolate cake. It was almost as good as strawberry mousse cake. It was like a show. Everybody from the wedding came to watch us, scrambling to get better looks at us. I blushed.

“So, Louis, how’s it like in France?” I asked, breaking the ice.

“Um… it’s fine. We usually just have balls, parties, and feasts. It’s boring. I would rather read or hunt,” Louis said, looking down at his platter.

“Oh, really? Is that how it’s done here? You just hunt and eat so you won’t have to look after your people all the time, right?” I joked.

A flicker of annoyance flashed across Louis’ face.

“We do a lot more than that, Marie.”

I laughed. “Oh, yes. My mistake.” I could vanish into thin air right now.

Overall, I was having a great time. I knew that the people of France felt the same. They were having a grand time, too. Expensive food was being sold on the streets.

Fountains cascaded luscious spiced chocolate and champagne while fresh fruit was piled on platters. Rich young people danced. Acrobatic shows, masked balls, and fireworks filled the streets with a passion of celebration. Wow. Our marriage meant so much to the people.

Chapter Text

Chapter 25

Two weeks passed by, and there were parties held in our honor. We were actually pretty popular, considering the fact that all of France was celebrating our marriage. Yesterday I actually saw a circus performing near a booming fireworks display. I attended a masked ball for fun. I had on a pink mask and no one even RECOGNIZED me!

They never thought that the dauphine would attend such a silly common party! But NO! I could participate in ANYTHING I wanted! Hey, I could do whatever I wanted. So that’s exactly what I did. I had a ton of fun.

However, today, I moved into my private chambers at Versailles. Even the inside of the palace looked just as magnificent as the outside, unlike my old home in Habsburgs. Sorry, Mama!

The ceilings had beautiful murals, and gold leaves adorned the Hall of Mirrors. There were so many mirrors. It was one of the grandest spaces in the palace. The passageway was completely filled with mirrors at every angle. I’m sure there’s thousands of windows at this place. I gushed and gasped at the sights. Louis just smiled. I, on the other hand, was so amazed. I could barely fit in with this fancy wealth. It totally didn’t fit me, but I was willing to attempt to make it suit me. I had to, especially if I was going to be queen in a few years. It was one of my biggest dreams. I wanted to achieve my dream.

WHAT kind of queen CANNOT fit in with her surroundings? An unpopular MORON! I DEFINITELY did not want to be one. I needed to fit in as fast as I could! I’ll NEVER give up on it.

Anyway, that wasn’t all. Aside from the murals that adorned the ceilings and walls, there were beautiful sculptures and tapestries. The gardens were no less beautiful, with flowers, bushes, and little animals. In fact, the gardens were one of my FAVORITE places at Versailles!

It was more than a newcomer like me could take. The entire palace was BEYOND fancy! It was marvelous! I knew for sure that my life here would be lovely. Very lovely.

Versailles was better than any other place, even the palace at the Tuileries in Paris, France’s capital city. At Versailles, it was my and Louis’ home. It belonged to his grandfather, King Louis XV. Noble families lived here too. It was the seat of the French government, an attraction, and a home to many wealthy families.

As much as I loved Versailles, fitting in was especially hard. I had my own rooms, of course, but I was supervised by all my attendants and guards. I was naturally used to royal life. Here, however, it was different. I was usually on display, and it felt kind of WEIRD.

I’m assuming at least a thousand people roamed the halls and stayed within my presence. The worst thing about being on display was the critics.

Today, I was SUPER exhausted from my busy and strict schedule…

“Marie Antoinette, honey, it’s time to wake up,” my attendant said. I opened my eyes and looked at the clock.

“9:30,” it read. I sat up and stretched. What an early time to get up. I was still exhausted from partying last night. I finally got out of bed and let my attendants slip the flannel gown on me. They helped me into my personal bathroom. After I brushed my teeth, my attendants helped me into the large tub and ran the bath. About a minute later, an attendant came and served me my breakfast. It was a nice big croissant with a LOT of butter. I happily accepted it and savored it slowly. When I was done, my attendants helped me out of the water, dried me, and dressed me.

“Would you like this gown made of white silk?” my attendant asked.

“Yes, please,” I said.

“Lift up your arms like this.”

“Stand straight.”

While the attendants dressed me, many people came to watch. Even PEOPLE WHO WEREN’T PART OF THE ROYAL FAMILY. I didn’t like the way people kept watching me. I was literally being STALKED.

If I was going to be queen, I’d have to get used to this.

I finally finished dressing after what felt like eternity. This whole getting-ready routine was called the lever. Interesting.

I had a whole day ahead, but in the small amount of free time I had, I managed to write Mama a letter.

“Dear Mother,

Everything is going fine. However, I am on twenty-four hour surveillance. I wash my hands and put on my rouge in front of the whole world. It’s strange.

Love,

Maria Antonia (Marie Antoinette)

To make matters worse, it wasn’t just WOMEN watching me. It’s MEN and WOMEN.

Right after the morning lever, I rushed out of my room to get Louis. I found his private room and knocked. He opened the door. “Good morning, Louis,” I started. “Are you coming to attend Daily Mass?”

“I’m coming in a moment,” he said. He closed the door and came out a few minutes later in a handsome coat and hat. “All ready,” he said.

Perfect! We walked down the stairway and through the halls of Versailles. We finally reached the Royal Chapel, the guards and escorts following us. Talk about exciting! The nobles and courtiers still watched on like there was no stopping. It was surreal and absurd!

If I could, I would have barricaded myself into the blacksmith’s hogshead. Louis did not seem to enjoy the attention either.

“Oh, Louis, it’s a nuisance they always do this.”

Louis looked startled and very nervous. I think he has a LADY-TALKING-TO-YOU phobia!!

“Er… it’s not that… actually… It’s… just that I… can’t stand… EVERYTHING for a while,” Louis stumbled as his cheeks flushed.

“Oh, it’s fine-” I stopped. “Wait. Louis, is it always… like this?” I asked.

“Uhh, yes…?” Louis answered.

It didn’t occur to us that we had stopped walking to talk to each other. “Wait! With all due respect, why did your Highnesses stop here?” some royal escort blurted.

“My apologies!” I gasped.

We walked into the Royal Chapel and took our seats. People were filling in fast. I sighed and facepalmed. When the people approached me, I plastered on a fake cheesy smile. “Pleased to meet you, Marie Antoinette,” a woman came up and shook my hand. I shook hand after hand and gave hug after hug. I received kiss after kiss (on the cheek, of course). I accepted bouquets and bouquets of flowers, diamond rings and diamond necklaces, amethyst brooches and emerald bracelets, sapphire earrings and pendants made of ruby, stones, jewels, moondust, gold, silver, topaz, aquamarines, and pearls. I was beginning to get sweaty and tired, so I raised my voice and gave a brief announcement that Mass was starting and that visitation time with the dauphine was up. So DON’T bother me right now! In the most FRIENDLY way possible.

I used that moment of peace I got to catch my breath. Mass began. I hate to admit it, but being smothered by fans was actually BETTER than attending the Catholic Church! Like, a MILLION times better! I didn’t tell Louis that. Never in a BILLION years.

That boring Daily Mass finally ended. The next major item on the list was dinner with Louis Auguste. It was only the afternoon, but we had plans to eat at the Royal Table tonight. “Louis, my personal chocolatier is going to help prepare desserts for us tonight. I also requested ice cream and a scrumptious seafood boil!” I exclaimed.

Louis agreed. Of course.

Dinner was wonderful. We laughed and talked about nonsensical things.

As soon as our private dinner was over, however, our escorts came to pester us. It was extremely rare for us to have any privacy at all. The court fretted over us so much that it looked like Louis was about to faint.

Apparently, the next item on my list was to visit Louis’ three aunts. I rushed to my chambers to make sure I looked tidy and then hurried past the king’s chambers. As I passed by, a sea of people followed. I marched into a room of delicately painted white pillars.

Three middle-aged women with big powdered wigs and too much makeup stared at me. I smiled and curtsied. I had an audience after all. The oldest woman faked a disapproving smile at me. OMG! I was so shocked by her utter rudeness.

“Come here, little girl,” she said sternly.

I obeyed. I knelt on the floor and looked meekly at the lady. Her pouting lips became more friendly.

But the middle lady just frowned. “You’re wearing such a pretty dress; you should not be sitting on the floor like that! Get up! This instant!”

Ugh, please, her RUDENESS!

Anyway, at least something BETTER happened. Louis and the king showed up. “Your majesty!” I curtsied.

“Good evening, Marie Antoinette,” the king greeted me politely. Louis smiled shyly.

“Father, how do you expect this DAUPHINE to be part of the future of France when THIS is how she behaves?” the youngest of the aunts screeched, twitching her eyebrows.

The king didn’t respond.

“Marie Antoinette, very well,” the oldest lady began. “As a dauphine, you should be a role model and adopt higher expectations for yourself. Don’t you dare DISHONOR OUR FAMILY! Do you understand?!” she screamed at me in front of the whole world.

“Yes, madame,” I answered nervously.

The meeting dragged on forever, full of harsh words and criticisms. I was SOOOOOO happy when it ended. One thing was for sure: I really despised those so-called ladies. As soon as I forced myself to say my goodbyes, I slipped out of the room to the parlor where I could play music. The crowd lingered on. Even so, I could not help smiling at the fact that I had gotten away from those three hags. My teacher Vermond had accompanied me to Versailles; I was so glad to see him again. Louis entered. He bowed politely and sat down. I took my seat on the bench. Vermond glanced at me and nodded.

All ready! I started pressing the piano keys. I used to play this song when I was a child. As I played, I imagined my old childhood friend Mozart playing passionately for Mama and I. Now, I heard news that he had become a famous composer.

After my solo ended, I received a round of applause.

Then Vermond flipped to another page in the music book. I remembered this song as well. Tah-tah, tuh, ti, ti, tweee. “All right, ready, now!” he declared.

I ran my fingers through the second solo, not making the slightest mistake. I smiled as I finished the last note briefly. “The crowd must be entertained by my EXCELLENT performance,” I thought to myself.

The crowd cheered. “Bravo! Bravo! Vive Marie Antoinette! Vive Louis Auguste! Vive the monarchy! Huzzah!”

I laughed. Louis, startled, mustered a grimace. I stopped.

Roughly ten cheesy songs followed. As the crowd clapped and cheered, I realized I was starting to get hungry again. Supper was still two hours away, though.

At last, it was time for supper. I joined Louis at the Royal Table. Members of the royal family and important members of the court were invited to sit. Others were allowed to watch. Supper was quite plain. The servants simply served soup, bread, and butter. I slowly ate my onion soup, brioche, and butter. Coming here, I thought the nightly supper would’ve been something along the lines of escargot, frog legs, and fromage. I kind of wanted a baguette.

I finished supper after what felt like hours. Louis ate like he hadn’t eaten in a week. The servants took away our plates once we were finished eating and cleared the table.

I walked up to Louis. “Good night, dear,” I said, smiling.

“Good night, Marie,” he answered.

I smiled at him again and, with my attendants following me, retreated to my bedchamber. I flung open the door and resisted the urge to throw myself in bed. The public was still watching me as they filed in. I got dressed into my nightgown with the help of my attendants and was tucked into bed. With the public still watching, my attendants let down the curtain draped over my bed.

At long last, the day was over.

Chapter Text

Chapter 26

“Your highness, Marie Antoinette,” the messenger said.

I looked inside the box he was holding out for me. “For Marie Antoinette,” it read.

“Why, thank you!” I exclaimed. I looked at the package in surprise. Usually, there were not many deliveries to me especially. I wanted to tear open the package, but then I realized that tearing things open was not very proper or formal. So I slowly opened the box and peeled away at the sticky wax. When I opened it, I revealed a tiny, cute little puppy!

“MOPS?!!!” I squealed in delight. What a pleasant surprise! I hadn’t seen my precious pug dog in SO LONG! My eyes filled with happy tears. “Mops!” I shouted gleefully, throwing my arms around him. I picked him up and kissed him on the nose. “Thank goodness!” I exclaimed to the messenger. “A million thanks!” Squee!

Three attendants appeared. “Why, good morning, madames.”

“Good morning, your highness, Marie Antoinette,” the head attendant, Isabeau, said.

“Can I check my mail?” I asked. I knew that Mama should have answered by now. Usually, the mail was sluggish, but a day was plenty of time for delivery.

“Can I, please, you mean?” Isabeau corrected.

“Oh, yes,” I laughed nervously.

“Yes, madame, that’s what you meant to say. A dauphine like you should be more mindful of your manners. Oh, look! There’s a delivery in that box!” Isabeau took the box from me. She handed me a rolled scroll.

It read,

“Dear Antonia,

You should not draw too much attention to yourself, my child. You are supposed to follow your husband’s lead, not bathe in extravagance. You are being wasteful and foolish. I expect much better from you, daughter. I hope that by the time you become queen consort, you would have left your frivolous nature behind.

Forever yours,
Mother (Empress Maria Theresa of Austria)”

I rolled my eyes and scowled. What kind of foolishness was she even talking about?! OMG! That letter from Mama completely turned my smile upside down! UGH!!

“What’s the matter, hon?” my attendant named Marguerite asked, looking at me.

“Don’t be so rude. You are in public,” another attendant, Anne, scolded.

“Yes, don’t frown so much,” Isabeau admonished me.

“I’m sorry!” I muttered.

“For what?” Marguerite nagged.

“For FROWNING!” I almost screamed.

I crashed out then and there. “I’ll have you know that you are not my masters, for I am a DAUPHINE. You are my subordinate! Is that clear?” My white face was red with fury as I balled up my fists.

My attendants were speechless.

“Please! You did not just scream at us! Do not be so rude!” Isabeau pleaded.

“I will not be silent! Trust me, if you keep on nitpicking and shaming me for my every move, I will tell Louis and the king about this. That’s a promise!” I threatened.

“Y-Yes, your highness,” Isabeau said meekly.

“Now, go. GO!” I ordered. Isabeau, Anne, and Marguerite hurriedly scampered away.

Ha. Again, I stood up for myself. “I will never let them boss me like that anymore,” I laughed to myself, shaking my head.

I stood in my chambers, glaring at the aggravating letter Mama wrote me. How dare she CRITICIZE me when I was in such a grand mood?! It seemed that the whole WORLD was criticizing me: first the three aunts, then the attendants, and now MAMA!! I decided to tell Mama that. Not now. Sometime later. Maybe. I couldn’t just tell her now, especially under all this pressure.

How could Mama reach her arm all the way from Austria to France and try to mold me into what she wanted from such a distance? I was completely ticked off! The worst thing was that Mama had multiple spies! My teacher, Vermond, and another one of her spies, Count Mercy, took notes on my behaviors during our sessions and reported them back to Mama. This was going to bring me Round Two of Mama’s Scolding!

To make matters even WORSE, the court does not like me. I don’t care what other people think most of the time, but what I fear is that they will one day turn against me and harm me. I’ve always known about the tense relationship between France and Austria. Mama had enlightened me all about it. It was the main reason why she needed me to tie the bonds between the two countries with my marriage to Louis. If our peaceful union failed to prevent war from breaking out between Austria and France, I was going to have a hard time. I could be captured and taken as a prisoner of war. I might even get killed!
I shuddered. Getting everybody on my side was not going to be easy. Just look at the facts!

1. Those three aunts are absolutely brutal.
2. My attendants are so pushy and annoying.
3. Mama is controlling my life.
4. I have absolutely no privacy here. I am watched all the time by people I don’t know.
5. I get scolded harshly if I make a mistake.
6. The court hates my guts.

How was I ever going to handle being QUEEN if I had so many PROBLEMS?!

Chapter Text

Chapter 27

1772

It was especially hard to fit in with this nonsense. But I survived. People continued to pester me, and Mama continued to send me her scolding letters. I never answered them.

Even with Mops, I felt lonely. True, I was totally popular, but something was missing. Louis wasn’t interesting. He just read books, hunted, tinkered around in his workshop, or helped the king.

I figured getting a makeover could help me become happier. I did feel like changing my hairstyle because I wanted to try the popular French pouf. The pouf was a tall powdered wig adorned in all sorts of decorations worn by noblewomen and court ladies. It was truly fabulous. I wanted to wear it. I figured that even more people would ADORE me if I were to wear it. You’ll see!

I quickly arranged for a meeting with my private hairdresser. I rushed to the chamber where I would get my hair and makeup done.

“Bonjour, Marie Antoinette. I hear you want to try the famous pouf? Very classy choice indeed!” the hairdresser exclaimed.

I smiled. I sat as the hairdresser placed the frame of the wig upon my head before lowering on the towering powdered hair.

My own strawberry blonde hair cascaded down my shoulders in splendid little curls. Lace, pearls, and white feathers embellished the pouf.

“Perfect!” I clapped my hands together, looking in the mirror. It was a stunning touch to my glamorous white silk gown. I looked fabulous. I stood and strolled away in pride.

My event with Gabrielle was delayed sometime later this afternoon, so I had time to show Louis my pouf. He was sitting in the parlor reading a book. I wasn’t surprised.

“Hey, Louis!” I blurted out.

He looked up at me. “What is it? Oh.”

“Don’t you like it?” I asked, a mild hint of irritation in my voice.

“Oh, of course I do! You look great.”

“Thank you,” I gushed. “Do you want to go to the Opera House for supper?”

He smiled. “Yes, I would like that.”

I grinned.

I hope that I’ll be much more popular now thanks to my edge-cutting fashion.

Chapter Text

Chapter 28

1773

OMG! I was going to the capital city PARIS today! There is this palace called the Tuileries, which is an important place even if Versailles is much fancier. As I stepped into my carriage, I felt a surge of happiness and enthusiasm. Louis followed me inside the carriage as the coachman reined his horses to start for Paris.

Although it was not too long of a trip, it was much too HOT! I fanned myself the whole way there. Louis, in all his layers of waistcoat and jacket, could not be more expressionless. He was probably dying in the heat.

When we finally arrived, I was in awe. The city was CROWDED! Noblemen, clergymen, and common men alike packed the square. The city of Paris had to be at least TEN times more populated than Versailles. With the crowd there, the heat became even more unbearable.

The Parisian ambassador bowed as Louis and I were escorted out of the carriage. I curtsied back. At that very moment, fireworks went off. Some cannons exploded. Balloons and streamers danced in midair.

“Hi!” I cried.

People waved and cheered in response. The Parisians were way louder than the crowd at Versailles. They celebrated with champagne, beer, pudding, and of course, cake! I definitely wanted a bite.

The ambassador welcomed us warmly. “Welcome to Paris, Dauphin Monsieur Louis Auguste and Dauphine Madame Marie Antoinette. I hope you both enjoy your stay in Paris.” He turned to the crowd. “Welcome Marie Antoinette and Louis Auguste, our future reine et la roi de la France!”

The Parisian crowd erupted into cheers.

After we walked through the cheering crowds, we toured the shops and businesses with the ambassador. I saw signs of protests against raising taxes.

“They can’t pay taxes?” I asked, sputtering.

The ambassador shook his head solemnly. “Many are in danger of debt and being jailed.”

As we walked further into the city, I started seeing more and more peasants. They were malnourished, gloomy, and dressed in dirty rags. A kind-looking peasant woman curtsied before us. “Your highnesses, it is a pleasure to meet you. As you see, we are poor folk. We cannot afford to pay the taxes. We are starving, as bread is expensive. Our children are suffering. I just hope that when you become king and queen, you will build a new future for us,” she pleaded hopefully.

We just smiled at her, nodded politely, and walked on. We talked to some more Parisians and toured the marketplaces before we decided to go home.

I thought again about the peasants on the carriage home. I thought about their faded clothes and frail frames and their complaints about the taxes and the price of bread.

What could I do? It’s not like I had much control around here.

I sighed, feeling the weight of the world on my shoulders. What could I do? Everyone expected something from me - Mama, Louis’ aunts, the French court, and now the common folk of France. And I didn’t know if I could live up to their expectations.

Chapter Text

Chapter 29

1774

Around the middle of the year, something happened that changed everything. It all started on a hot evening. The king, Louis XV, met with me and Louis. We had a grand time, sipping champagne and chatting. We bantered about future parties and dances to come, the prices of attractive material possessions, and the people in the court, of course. Yes, gossip was always inevitable at Versailles.

That night after my evening coucher, I went to bed, satisfied and exhausted.

After a night of peaceful slumber, I woke up in the early morning not to my attendants but to Louis looking as panicked as ever and shouting my name.

“Marie,” he cried.

“What is it?” I asked.

“The King is very sick!”

“What?” I stammered.

“Come!”

I grabbed his hand, rushed out of my chambers, and ran down the hall to the king’s bedchamber. The king laid in his bed, his face sallow and feverish. His doctors and attendants surrounded the bed, conversing with each other in grave whispers.

“What’s wrong?” I asked.

The king’s doctors and servants quickly looked up.

“He has a fever, and it is not going down!” his doctor shouted. “He has multiple red bumps on his skin as well. It appears to be smallpox. This is very serious.”

“Smallpox?” the king’s attendants and I gasped collectively.

“Smallpox is very deadly, as we don’t have many methods to treat it.”

Louis stepped in. “Marie, how about you fetch some cold water for the king while I get a cold compress?” he asked.

I nodded.

“Yes, please, Monsieur. We need all the help we can get,” one of the king’s attendants pleaded, fanning the air.

I ran to fetch a jug of cold water and came back to the room to see if the king was okay. He wasn’t. Every ten minutes he would fall asleep only to wake up and groan in pain. His voice was hoarse. His coughs racked his entire body. For a moment in his feverish delirium, he even forgot who I was. I became very frightened. I called for Louis.

“Bring him enough water. If he starts showing other symptoms, please call the doctor back to the room,” he instructed me. This went on for a couple days.

As the days passed, the king did not seem to get any better. He only got worse. His fever rose higher. His pallour turned an ash gray. I didn’t know what to do.

If the king were to die, there would be good news and bad news. The good news was that Louis and I would become the new king and queen. The bad news, however, was that the king’s death would cause great turmoil for France. I really did not want to tell Mama about this, but I had to. Count Mercy and Vermond would find out anyway, and I did not want them to give her the news before I did.

One afternoon, Louis and I entered the king’s bedchamber with a warm bowl of soup. His attendants were already gathered around his bedside.

King Louis XV shook his head sadly. “I… can’t…” he croaked, barely making a sound. I glanced at the attendants. Their faces were very sullen. My heart dropped.

The king’s breathing slowly evened out, his face relaxing. We watched sadly as the look of pain was slowly replaced with peace.

Louis, knowing what had transpired, grew firmer in his stature. “All right, everyone. You are dismissed,” he said, a tone of authority in his voice as if already accepting his new position.

This means that I was going to become queen.