Royal-ish (2025)

[bunniefuu]

- Abdication.

- You seem surprised.

As head of your security,

I think I would have known.

Does Her Majesty say

when she'd make a decision?

No. Though I imagine

next year's Golden Jubilee

is when she would make

the announcement.

If she chooses to abdicate.

As to when she will decide,

she plans to wait until

the Order of the Lily is over.

That's in a month. What could she

possibly learn between now and then?

Whether or not

I'm ready to be king.

Are you?

What a great show.

Here you go.

Hey, roomie. I picked up an

extra shift at the diner tonight.

- I should be home by 7:00.

- I'll save you some lasagne.

You're the best.

Ava, who's the new

Little Bo Peep?

Oh, her name's Kira something.

Erm, I heard that she

was talking to Mr Dole earlier.

Didn't know we were hiring.

Me neither.

I did hear a rumour, though,

that Mr Dole is planning

for her to take over

one of the princess roles.

Seriously?

Oh, but you're fine.

You've been Sweet Pea for ages.

Not exactly reassuring.

Princess roles are usually

in their early 20s

which... I am not.

I have to go.

Oh, Lacey.

I left my tiara in again?

I mean, it's cute.

It might get me more tips.

- Bye.

- Bye.

Market researcher?

You have a degree.

I have a BA in psychology so, you

know, my options are a little limited.

Don't you have credits though,

for your Masters?

Credits do not a degree make, my

Little Red Riding Hood roomie.

Mmm. Good lasagne.

So go back and get the rest of

those credits, what's stopping you?

Time, money,

a small lack of certainty with

what I'll actually do with that degree.

Well, at least you still

have Princess Sweet Pea.

Yeah, for now.

It's just a rumour, we don't know

if Mr Dole's planning to retire you.

But if it's not with Kira, let's face it,

it's gonna be with someone else eventually.

Mark was right about that.

Hey. We don't quote

ex-boyfriends, it's unhealthy.

Yeah, but annoyingly

he had a point.

I can't be

a theme park princess forever.

I'm gonna age out eventually,

and then what?

I don't want to be the evil

queen or the wicked stepmother.

I got in this job to make

kids smile, not to scare them.

You'll think of something.

And hey, you're still the greatest

Princess Sweet Pea of them all.

You're still gonna make me do

the dishes though, aren't you?

Yes I am.

Miss Daphne said your French tutor was

very proud of the progress you've made.

Only because Miss Daphne's

helped me study.

What if I don't do as well

when she's gone?

Your next governess will help you

prepare as Miss Daphne has done.

Does she have to leave?

Miss Daphne's getting married,

darling. They're going to live in Italy.

I know. I'm going to miss her.

I know you will.

You've got a great deal on

your plate of late, haven't you?

I couldn't ride again yesterday.

I tried, papa, I truly did.

But I got nervous.

Rosie.

Falling off a horse

would make anyone nervous.

What if I can't ride for the

Order of the Lilies procession?

I'll be the first one

in the family to fail that.

Mama will be upset with me.

You let me worry about

your grandmother.

You've got a great many things

to worry about as is.

I wish I was braver.

Well I think you're quite brave.

But I don't feel brave.

I read about prince and

princesses in fairytales

and they seem so

much braver than I'll ever be.

Appearances can be deceiving.

I'll bet if you were to talk with one of

those princesses from the fairytales

she'd tell you

she gets nervous too.

Hmm, you don't believe me,

I see.

Then I shall have to prove it.

- We're going to America.

- America?

Virginia to be exact.

It's absurd, Henry.

It's already been arranged.

The theme park is expecting us

in two days

and we shall stay

there for two days.

Through Rose's birthday.

And what of

your responsibilities

in Bella Moritz?

There are meetings on

the upcoming Order of the Lily

which you are

scheduled to attend.

Nothing will be

altered if I don't.

It's all about

responsibility, Henry.

Consistency. Showing up.

Showing up is all I do, mother.

I barely speak in those meetings

and don't know my purpose for

being in them most of the time.

But I do know my purpose

as Rose's sole parent.

And she needs this.

What with the pressure

to ride in the procession.

And the upcoming departure

of Miss Daphne has hit her hard.

Is Rose all right?

She will be.

But as I said,

she needs this break

before she returns to school.

Perhaps she shouldn't.

What?

Return to Ardmore Academy.

Tradition has always been that the children

of royalty are tutored here at the palace.

We've been over this.

It was Colleen's fervent

request that Rose be educated

amongst her peers.

Which I respect.

However, I'm concerned that

she appears to be struggling.

She's nearly nine years old.

And feels things more keenly

than most children.

Coupled with her

growing royal duties

and the losses

she's already experienced

I think the last thing

she should be is isolated.

Hence our trip to America.

I need a moment, please.

We shall continue

this discussion on your return.

- When do you depart?

- Tomorrow.

Tomorrow?

And what is the name of this

theme park you plan to attend?

Emerald Parks, Once Upon A Time.

Would you like a tray cake?

Heads up. The stage manager says

Prince Charming's car broke down

so he won't

be here for the waltz.

Again? That's the third

time this week.

I'll have to grab

someone from the crowd.

Hello, children.

Hello.

I am ever so sorry to be late

but you see I woke up with

a terrible pain in my back.

And do you know why?

There was a pea

under my mattress!

Can you believe it?

Well, I'm ever so happy

to see your smiling faces now.

And I must ask who would

like to join me for a tea party?

Me, me, me!

Really?

She's so pretty, isn't she?

Yes. She is.

Look, here she comes!

She's coming!

Well, hello there.

May I say I love your attire.

It's like your dress.

I can see that.

And what is your name, princess?

I am Her Royal Highness Princess

Kataronia Rose of Bella Moritz.

Just Rose, no need for titles.

Au contraire, every little girl

deserves to be a princess.

I am Princess Sweet Pea.

It's a pleasure to meet you,

Princess Rose.

Your tiara's very sparkly.

So's mine,

back home at my palace.

Oh, and what

of the one on your head.

It's pretend.

I can't wear my real one yet

because a princess shouldn't

wear one until she's married.

Is that one of

the rules at Bella Moritz?

It is. Isn't that right, papa?

It is.

And are there royal rules

in your kingdom?

There are.

Well...

The first is that you must read

as many books as you can.

Because books

help us all to learn and grow.

Which is very important.

And the second is that

a princess must find a reason.

Even though there are times

when it may be difficult.

I know.

And when those difficult times arise,

princess, do you find you get nervous?

Oh yes,

I get nervous all the time.

- You do?

- Yes.

But when I do, I figured

out a few tricks to help me.

Would you like

to hear about them?

Well first, I breathe in.

And out.

And then I ask myself 'What could be

the reason for me being so nervous?'

Sometimes I talk it out

with a loved one.

But most of the times

I realise that

maybe I need to change my

perspective on the situation

so that the thing that I'm nervous

about becomes an opportunity.

And then I imagine

the best possible scenario.

When do you become brave?

That is being brave.

Facing the thing that makes

you scared and doing it anyhow,

that's bravery.

And I'm sure that you are a

very brave girl, Princess Rose.

Now, who would like to join me

in dancing the royal waltz?

Me.

Oh, all of you. Well, come up!

Okay. And who would

like to be my partner?

You should do it, papa.

My papa will do it.

He's so good at dancing.

Have you ever waltzed before?

- Once or twice.

- Perfect.

Perhaps you wouldn't mind

coming up

and helping

me demonstrate the steps.

Lead on.

Actually, as the man,

you would be the... Oh!

Okay, good.

You do know what you're doing.

Thank you for

what you said to Rose.

It was exactly what

she needed to hear.

Good. I'm glad.

Goodbye.

Goodbye little princesses.

Rosie.

Thank you so

very much, princess.

I shall never forget today.

And nor will I, Princess Rose.

How was the tea party?

Princess Sweet Pea

told me I was brave.

Did she? That was nice of her.

Then papa danced with her.

Aye.

Now I wish I'd

accompanied you into the room.

We were quite safe, thank you.

I'm less concerned

for your safety

than the opportunity

missed to see you dance

with the Princess Sweet Pea.

She's wonderful.

Papa, may we come back

to see her tomorrow?

There's still the rest of the park

left to see before we return home.

Well, as tomorrow

is your birthday...

perhaps we can

find a compromise.

It is highly unusual.

Yes, you said that

already, Mr Veron.

And what are we to say to

the Canadian tourism contingent

when Prince Henry is

not at our meeting tomorrow?

That he's in North America

doing research on tourism.

Personally.

If I may say, Your Royal Majesty

it risks the appearance

of poor form

on the part of His Highness.

I'm quite aware.

There is something else

that you want to say?

It's really not my place, Ma'am.

Mr Veron, Lionel.

You have been my most

trusted advisor for 20 years.

As was your father before.

Speak with candour

or learn to better school

your expressions.

Given your contemplation

of your future as sovereign

I can't help but note this

as yet another example

of Prince Henry's unreadiness to

assume the crown any time soon

His lack of interest or even attention at the

meetings he does attend is quite apparent.

To many.

Thank you for your candour.

I shall keep it in mind.

Ma'am.

You always get the fun guests.

Mine dropped terrible puns

about being the big bad wolf

and I wound up

having to call security.

Well I'm not sure I'd call

baseball cap dad fun

though he was easily the best

guest dancer I've ever had.

And he was really good

with his daughter, too.

Oh, Princess Rose.

She was adorable.

You're so good with kids.

I do wonder what the difficult

thing she's going through is.

That's the tricky part

about what we do.

We never get the full story.

Yeah.

Lacey.

Oh good, you're in costume.

I'm gonna need you to

come with me right away.

Oh. My tea party's

about to start.

I replaced you.

Replaced?

Just for the day.

I've already instructed

the signage be switched

from Princess Sweet Pea

to Little Bo Peep.

Am I in trouble?

No, no. Not at all.

In fact, I am counting

on you to help me

with a delicate situation

with a high-profile VIP.

Okay.

I'm gonna need you to be

their personal guide

through the park for the day,

take them on any rides and

attractions, anything they want.

But as Princess Sweet Pea.

Okay.

Who is it?

Hello again.

Hello.

Princess Sweet Pea, it is

my sincere pleasure to present

their Royal Highnesses, the Crown

Prince, Henry Frederik Augustus Sabine

and Princess Katrina Rose

of Bella Moritz.

It's a pleasure to formally

meet you both.

Oh no, please.

You don't have to.

Okay.

I told you I was a princess.

So you did.

This is Ian,

my head of security.

Ma'am.

Security.

This is a last-minute change

in our itinerary

and I thank

you both for your indulgence.

You see, Rose here was quite

taken with Princess Sweet Pea

and was hoping to spend more

time together for her birthday.

I'm nine today.

And we are gonna

make that happen.

Princess Sweet Pea is gonna be your personal

guide for the duration of your visit

to Once Upon A Time.

Because after all, this...

this...

Is where fairytales come true.

So much for our attempts

at staying under the radar.

You were aware this would

likely happen if we did this.

I know,

but look how happy Rose is.

I haven't seen her smile

like this in far too long.

Shall I inform Her Majesty that your

presence here is most likely uncovered?

No.

Let the palace find out

whenever it happens.

I'm not concerned about a

scandal surrounding our attendance

at an American theme park.

Even with Princess Sweet Pea

as our most able guide?

I'm fairly certain that's

an anti-scandal.

This is one of

my favourite rides.

Rose is afraid of horses. She had a

bit of a fall a couple of months ago.

It's shaken her.

Oh, I see.

Well I wouldn't want to do anything

that would cause you to be afraid.

I know they're not real,

but do horses scare you?

They used to.

But then I realised, just like people,

you just have to get to know them.

When I was your age

I used to love riding.

Any time I was feeling sad it

would help me forget all my worries.

That sounds nice.

It was.

Will you ride with me?

Of course.

I'll be right by your side.

It's okay.

All right, let's see.

Oh, you're joining us?

Wouldn't miss it.

I wish you could be there

when I ride in the ceremony.

Well if you get nervous you can

just close your eyes and think of me

and I'll be right there.

- Are you ready?

- Ready.

You got this.

Not so bad, right?

Yeah.

So I was thinking I could take Rose

on the Swan Princess river cruise next.

If that is acceptable to

Your Royal Highness.

Henry, please.

Okay, Henry.

May I ask you a question?

Of course.

What is your real name?

It's Lacey Pope.

Although I'm not

supposed to break character.

My boss, Mr Dole, is

very serious about that rule.

Well, your secret

is safe with me.

Your help with Rose

at the carousel was tremendous.

She responds better to you

than most people.

Oh, well she's so easy.

And I get it, falling off

of a horse is scary.

It is, but I suspect

that's not the only reason.

What else is it?

In a few weeks, my country has a grand

procession known as the Order of the Lily.

It's a ceremonial event which has been held

once a year going back to the 15th century.

After procession, there's

a grand ball at the castle.

"Grand ball." "The castle."

Okay, wow.

It's an event with great

traditional resonance.

And for sovereign children

at least nine years old,

it marks the entry

of their service to the realm.

Nine years?

That's so young.

That's part of the tradition.

Connor the Second was the king

who established the Order of the Lily.

So Rose is expected to

ride in this procession?

That is the hope.

- Can she just not?

- Certainly.

I would not force my child to do

anything that would cause her great fear.

That's good.

And how would that go

over back home if she didn't?

Not well. In many regards.

So you think that Rose's

fear of horses is tied to...

Growing pressure from a

great many angles to perform

and do what is expected of her.

Hmm.

She's so young.

Thank you

for doing this.

- Papa.

- Ah.

They have orange cheese

on their fries.

How disgusting! Let me try one.

Well, it's not a birthday

without a cake.

Too true.

I think this might be my favourite

birthday ever. Thank you so very much.

Thank you for

sharing it with me.

Are you about to be impulsive?

It's not impulsive

if I know I'm right.

So yes.

Rose. Ian's going

to take you to the car.

I'd like a brief word in private

with the princess. The taller one.

Ma'am.

I have a proposition for you.

No, not that kind.

You have a way with Rose that

goes beyond your princess persona.

She likes you, Lacey.

She's also about to face

a very difficult challenge

in her very young life.

And I believe it is a challenge

with which you can be of assistance.

Me, how?

By helping prepare her to ride in

the procession for the Order of the Lily.

Help grow her confidence

as you did on the carousel.

I don't understand.

I'd like you to come

to Bella Moritz.

Tell me you said yes.

I said yes after I made sure that all

my shifts at the diner were covered

given that I'm gonna

be gone for so long.

Three weeks.

And you haven't had a real

vacation in the seven years

since you've been working at

the diner or the park.

You're due.

It's true.

Though Henry is paying me.

How much?

Double what I would have made

during the same time at both jobs.

Nice. And you get to

stay in a palace

and go to a ball

like a real princess.

You'll probably come back an

even better Princess Sweet Pea.

Or engaged to a handsome duke.

Unless Mr Dole uses my time away to

have Kira take over as Princess Sweet Pea.

If he does, you can remind him you're

his best connection to Bella Moritz.

He did give me one caveat.

I have to go as Lacey Pope and

not do anything that might

connect me to

Princess Sweet Pea.

Oh.

Right, so you don't break...

the fourth wall

for future guests.

Yeah.

Mr Dole's such a weird

stickler for that rule.

I know.

Remember when he fired Scott

for posting a photo of himself in

his Jack and the Beanstalk costume?

Yes. That was awful.

Though, who's gonna know about

Sweet Pea where you're going?

Besides, the prince

and his daughter... Wait.

Is there a wife princess

or whatever?

No, so I did a Google

deep dive last night.

Turns out that Princess Colleen

died of cancer four years ago.

That makes what you're doing

for Rose even more important.

Yeah, it does.

So, what are you

wearing to the ball?

Oh. I hadn't even

thought about that yet.

Time to visit

the costume department.

Okay, you're scaring me.

I'm so happy that Lacey's

coming over. Thank you, papa.

Of course.

Hello mother.

Mama.

Hello my lovely Rosie.

Now, tell me all about

your adventure in America.

It was so fun and so lovely.

What was so lovely?

We went to Once Upon A

Time land in Emerald Park

and Princess Sweet Pea

showed us around the whole park.

I even rode a carousel.

I was a bit afraid even

though the horses weren't real.

But she helped me be brave.

Oh, how nice of

Princess Sweet Pea.

She is nice.

But her real name is Lacey Pope which papa

said we should call her by when she's here.

I planned to tell you.

We are to have a guest?

We are.

When?

Tomorrow.

Rosie, it's getting late. Why

don't you get ready for bed?

Okay. Good night, mama.

Aww. Good night, my dear.

I need you to take your

responsibilities seriously.

What do you mean?

Well last month you skipped

the Commonwealth Ball entirely.

I had food poisoning.

The month before that you

went off to the hunting lodges

in the north region at the exact time

the Duke of Kenmore was visiting.

He's a dreadful bore.

You've missed over a dozen

meetings whilst you were away

and now I hear you've brought

home someone from America.

Her name is Lacey.

And I hired her to help Rose

to overcome her fears in time

to ride in the procession.

Is she an expert on horses?

No.

But she does ride,

and most important

Rose responds better to her than I've

seen her respond to anyone in years.

Even Miss Daphne.

Are you sure this is

the correct course of action?

I am.

We shall discuss this later.

What do you think?

So pretty.

So crazy.

Crazy good.

I can't believe it.

This kind of stuff never

happens to Red Riding Hood.

All I get are

the big bad wolves.

It's a first for

Princess Sweet Pea too.

I think it's just what you need.

How?

You've been in the same rut

for such a long time.

Maybe this will

shake things up a little.

Oh! The car's already here.

Oh. Err...

Okay.

- Got everything.

- Yeah.

Okay.

Henry, it's Ian.

Come in.

How do I look?

Why are you asking

me that question?

Very good point.

Miss Pope is here.

She is?

Ah.

Ah what?

Now I know

why you asked me that question.

Don't be ridiculous. She's here

to help Rose which is crucial.

How did Her Majesty

take the news?

It's a...

work in progress.

- Lacey.

- Oh.

- Hi.

- Hi.

This is the first time

I've seen you as you.

Oh. Well, I wish I hadn't just

gotten off a ten-hour flight.

You look beautiful.

You don't look so bad yourself.

Which I probably

shouldn't say to a prince.

Marie. Would you be kind enough to take

Miss Pope's luggage to her room, please.

Thank you.

Lacey.

Hello. I can't believe you

recognise me

without my Princess Sweet Pea

ball gown on.

Of course. You're even

prettier as Lacey.

What? Thank you.

What high praise.

This is Miss Daphne,

my governess.

- Hi.

- Pleasure to meet you, Miss Pope.

I'm helping out with Rose

while her nanny is on holiday.

Lacey. Do you want to

join me for supper?

Cook is making

cuisses de grenouille.

Frog's legs.

Oh.

Rosie. Why don't we let

Lacey settle in first.

She's had a long flight

from Virginia.

I can ask cook to

leave you some if you'd like.

That is so thoughtful but I

ate on the plane ride over.

Okay.

Rosie. Remember

Lieutenant Collins will be here

tomorrow morning

at 10:00 am at the paddocks.

He's a riding instructor

for the Bella Moritz cavalry.

Hmm. And has been working

with Rose these past weeks.

Well I look forward to meeting

him and working with Rose.

In the meantime, Miss Daphne

would you be kind enough to accompany

Rose to get her beloved frog's legs?

Of course, Your Highness.

Bye.

She's so excited to see you.

I'm so excited to see her.

Henry.

Mother. This is Lacey Pope.

Your Majesty.

Er, welcome to

Bella Moritz, Miss Pope.

Henry, I have a moment before I must leave

for my lunch with Ambassador Barrington.

I'm terribly sorry.

Marie, would you mind accompanying

Miss Pope to her room, please.

Thank you.

- See you later.

- See you.

Whoa.

Oh. Hi. You're waiting for me.

Hi.

To bring a woman who you

barely know here to the palace

it speaks to your judgement,

Henry. It's poor form.

Ian did a background check.

What, before or after

you invited her?

After, but it proved

what I instinctively knew.

She's a good person who

has the potential to help Rose.

- Yes, Henry, but there are better ways...

- Mother.

Lacey will only be here for three

weeks through the Order of the Lily.

We all agree how important it is

for Rose to ride in the procession

for tradition but also

for her own self confidence.

Yes, but we must not also coddle

Rose, lest it lead to future challenges.

Her role will not become

easier as she grows older.

As a member of royalty

it requires self-discipline.

Responsibility.

I believe she

has those qualities.

Yes, well that

remains to be seen.

We must also

address her education.

If we are to find her a proper tutor

we must begin the search at once.

I do not want Rose to be tutored,

I want her to return to her school.

Yes but part of our condition is

doing what we do not want to do

because it is the correct

course of action.

All royals were

tutored at this palace.

I was. As were you.

Father wasn't.

Edward was not royal.

We have our traditions

to uphold.

And I believe with forthcoming

departure of Miss Daphne

there is an opportunity

to bring Rose back here.

As she should have

been all along.

Mother, I have so little

control over most things.

My purpose in life,

how I present to the world.

I should at least have the final

say on how my daughter is educated.

Is your life that bad?

No, of course not, I'm

privileged, I know that, but...

sometimes I feel I serve the

same purpose as decoration

brought out from time to time as needed,

then put back on the

shelf until the next event.

At least with Rose

I can have a true impact.

All right then,

well let's consider this.

Your judgement is

this Lacey Pope can be the one

to help Rose overcome her fears

in time to ride in the Order of the Lily.

- Yes?

- Yes.

Fine.

Well if she succeeds

I will honour your wishes

and Rose will remain

at Ardmore Academy.

And if she doesn't?

We will move her education

into the palace with a tutor.

And you will consider

my judgement flawed.

Which I suspect will influence

your decision on abdication.

How could it not?

I agree to this.

And Henry...

for all our sakes...

I do hope Miss Pope succeeds.

How is it?

Like I walked into Bridgerton

with a side of Outlander.

Nice.

- Have you met the queen yet?

- Briefly.

I'm pretty sure I curtsied wrong if the

look she gave me was any indication.

Will you interact with her much?

Not sure.

My job is to grow Rose's

confidence

and get her comfortable riding

so that make me the help.

Did Henry treat

you like the help?

No.

Hold up.

Did you just blush?

What? No.

You know I don't blush.

Kind of do if a person

knows you well enough.

Okay, well I was just

thinking that...

Henry and Rose treat me

like I'm more of a guest

or at least

they did yesterday, so...

we'll see how today goes.

Oh! Exciting.

Hi.

Hello. I'm a little bit lost. Can

you tell me where the stables are?

And you are?

Oh, I'm Lacey Pope.

I'm a guest of Henry and Rose's.

Prince Henry and Princess Rose.

Right. Yes.

From America?

Yes. Accent gave

me away, huh?

Huh, indeed.

You'll find the stables

past the North Gardens.

Oh amazing, thank you.

Erm...

Sorry, which direction is that?

Traditionally the North Gardens have

always been maintained to the north.

Thank you.

You don't have like a

map of this place, do you?

They're just really handy for

big places like this, you know?

Castles, theme parks.

We do not, no.

Just something to think about.

I'll take it under advisement.

The high contracting parties establish

among themselves a European union

here and after called The Union.

Here and after called The Union.

On which the member states

confer competences

to attain objectives

they have in common.

This treaty...

Sorry I'm late.

Got a little lost.

Yes, well as I was saying.

The Order of the Lily

full procession

will start at the palace

and go through Glenree.

That's the main part

of Bella Moritz.

Like Monte Carlo to Monaco.

Aye.

After which we shall

return to the palace.

Fortunately Bella Moritz

is not a large principality

so Princess Rose's journey will

not be a long one on Chester here.

Rose, have you ridden

Chester before?

She has.

She took a wee spill a while ago

but it happens to the best of us.

Well, does Rose have to ride

Chester for the procession?

Well he is one of our best.

I'm sure he is,

but perhaps there's another...

smaller horse, like that one.

Ah, Brownie.

She's my own.

She's a sweetheart.

Wonderful. Is she trained

for ceremonial processions?

Aye. She's been through

noise and movement trainings

but she's not officially

in the cavalry.

Well, could she be?

Just this once?

I... I... I suppose

it would be possible.

Great. Rose.

Would you prefer

to ride on a smaller horse?

Would you like to say hello

to Brownie, just to be sure?

Will you come with me?

Of course.

I'll be right by your side.

Brownie it is.

Wanna try right here?

Yeah.

Over already?

- Hi.

- Hi.

Rose was brave enough

to pet the horse, so...

no need to push her more

on her first day.

Aren't you supposed

to be in a royal meeting?

I shall ignore those

air quotes there

as I'll have you know I've already

been in three today, thank you.

My next one's in 30 minutes.

Fancy a tour of the palace?

After all, you showed me

your kingdom.

Seems only fair I should

do the same for you.

I would like that very much.

As someone

once said to me, lead on.

Oh, oh.

Looks like you're a natural.

Looks like I am.

So, what is the best part

of being a prince?

Aside from living

in a place like this.

The people of Bella Moritz.

The human connection

if you will.

All too often I feel

as if I'm isolated from them.

Don't you ever go out

and meet them?

You know,

shake hands, kiss babies.

Occasionally shaking hands,

never kissing babies.

It's not how

royalty operates here.

Well, how does it operate?

For those of us

who only wear a pretend crown.

Royalty is to project an

air of comfort for the people.

Which is created through

distance and mystery.

Aspirational.

Never known anyone who's been

comforted from a distance.

You know, that's why I'm always

kneeling or sitting down

when I'm with the children as Princess

Sweet Pea to connect with them.

Sorry, I'm sure it's,

you know, completely different.

Connection is connection.

Can't you change

how thing are done?

I'd very much like to

but there are obstructions.

Like what?

Not what. Who.

My mother for one.

She has a singular vision for the

way in which royalty should behave.

Guided in no small part

by her carder of advisors.

Hmm.

What's a carder?

We really should

get started, ma'am.

Let's proceed with the meeting.

Article 60.

The council shall, jointly

with European parliament...

Er, this is the portrait room.

Hmm. Portrait room.

I didn't know that was a thing.

That is King Connor.

Oh, the one who started

the Order of the Lily?

The very one.

Do you all have to dress

like that for the procession?

Not quite.

Though it is very fancy.

Well, if there's a ball afterwards,

I guess it would have to be fancy.

It's where I honed

my waltzing skills.

Hmm. That's why

you're so smooth.

Was I the best dad

with whom you've danced?

Princess never tells.

Who's that?

She's beautiful.

That is Colleen.

My late wife.

I'm sorry for Rose that she

won't have gotten to fully know her.

Rose was four

when Colleen passed.

Reminds me of

when my mum got sick.

I was right around Rose's age.

My mum made it through, but it

was one of the hardest times of my life.

Were those the sad times you

mentioned to Rose at the carousel?

Yeah.

My dad and I either spent our

time riding or at the hospital.

Which is also when I met

my first fairytale princess.

How did that happen?

Well, the park has a programme where cast

members go to hospitals to visit children

or those whose loved ones

are going through difficulties.

Just helps

cheer them up, you know?

And I remember them

being so kind and generous.

I remember this one Snow White

and she told me that

even the saddest stories

eventually had happy endings.

Just had to have faith and hope.

Is that what inspired you to be

a fairytale princess at the park?

Yeah.

Those characters were like these rays

of sunshine when I needed them the most.

And so, I always wanted to be

that for someone else if I could.

Which...

as silly as it sounds, being Princess

Sweet Pea has allowed me to do.

I can't imagine a better reason

to be a princess.

I remembered one of your rules for being a

princess is to read as many books as possible.

Reading helps

us all learn and grow.

I know where I'll

be spending my free time.

May I?

Please.

Books are meant to be read.

Sadly, not enough of these are.

Sometimes I wish I could

open this room to the public.

So they don't sit here

unused and unloved.

That's a great idea.

Why don't you?

Mother would never go for it.

My father once suggested

opening parts of the palace to visitors

and she was not having it.

Why not?

I've visited Buckingham Palace.

That is but one of many estates

owned by the royals of Great Britain.

Our estate here is our

primary residence.

The tradition has been

to keep it private.

Hmm.

And how do you feel about that?

I believe in privacy

for certain parts

but I don't see the harm

in opening some of our doors.

I'm a bit more like my father

in that I suppose.

He was the prince consort.

Neither born into royalty

or the aristocracy.

What was he?

A pilot.

My mother's pilot to be exact.

They fell in love

when father was flying mother

around the world.

While theirs was

a happy marriage

papa chafed the restrictions

he felt himself under.

Must have been hard on him.

Oh, he found his ways to rebel.

How?

We have a long standing

farmers market in Glenree.

Papa would put on disguises and go

there to interact with the townspeople.

I'd accompany him sometimes.

Were you wearing

a disguise yourself?

Quite often, yes.

Do you still go

to the farmers market?

No. I stopped at 16.

When my father passed.

Didn't seem as interesting

without him.

Okay, what do you think?

Where are the colonel

and Miss Daphne?

I told them not to come. I just

wanted it to be me and you.

You know, I was thinking about

how brave you were

the day that you rode

the horses on the carousel.

Then I remembered how colourful

those horses were.

She looks pretty like that.

Are you feeling

a lot of pressure?

You know, your dad told me that he

would never force you to do anything

that would make you fearful.

You're the most important

thing to him.

And if that means that you don't

want to ride in the procession

then you don't have to.

But you came all the way here

to help me.

And if helping you means letting

you know that you don't have to ride

then I've done my job.

The important thing

is that you feel safe.

I felt safe on the carousel.

With you.

Good.

What if I sat in the saddle

and you held on to the reigns

and we didn't go anywhere?

I think that's a great idea.

Grab it right there.

Yeah. Nice.

How do you feel?

A little scared but not as much.

I like Brownie

more than Chester.

Good. Do you feel safe?

Maybe we could

walk around the stables.

If you lead.

Of course.

We'll go really slow

and remember I'm right here.

Right. Come on, Brownie.

Do you think Rose

will ride in the procession?

I honestly don't know. She's still several

days out and she's making progress

but will it be enough?

Oh, I hope she does,

I'm invested.

Whoa, whoa, whoa.

Wait, did I just see a Princess

Sweet Pea in the background?

Oh yeah, it's Kira. She just started

substituting for you in the tea room.

But she swears

it's only until you get back.

Should I be worried?

I'm not sure yet.

But I've got

my eyes peeled for you.

- So you're the one...

- Oh!

Er, Your Highness.

For the sake of brevity

you needn't curtsy so formally.

A simple nod will suffice.

Got ya.

That's just how I was taught.

Though usually it's

everyone else curtsying at me.

Is that so?

Just at my day job.

What book did you return?

Oh, that was the Scarlet

Feather by Maeve Bin... Bin...

Binchy.

- Binchy.

- Maeve Binchy.

- Binchy.

- Hmm.

Did you like it?

Yes.

Firefly Summer's

my favourite of hers.

Well that sounds great.

Is that... that's also here?

Well of course it's here,

where else would it be?

I don't know. Of course it is.

Erm, well I will have to add

that to my list which is very long

because I am a reader.

Just like you.

Okay, well I think

I'm going to skedaddle now.

That means leave.

I know what it means.

It's an old word.

I'm surprised you use it.

Oh, I got it from my dad.

Hmm.

Hmm. Okay.

Well, yeah thank you Your Highness,

Your Royal Highness, Majesty.

Bye.

Odd girl.

Er, Your Highness.

A word, if you please.

As regards the Order of

the Lily and the princess

has it yet been decided whether

Princess Rose will be riding

alongside you in

the Cavalry Guards

or will she continue to ride with

Her Majesty in the royal carriage?

The plan is for

the princess to ride.

And if for any reason

she does not,

Princess Rose will join her

grandmother in the carriage.

It would be better to determine

that now.

The carriage holds

a limited number of people.

Aside from the queen and myself

there are only two spaces reserved

for those involved in vestiture ceremony.

Then I'm sure you wouldn't mind giving

up your place to walk behind the carriage

with the rest of the procession.

Walk.

What's this?

Lacey said we could have a picnic

tea party since I rode all by myself today.

You did?

Around the paddocks.

Twice.

That is wonderful news to hear.

Any chance I might

join this picnic tea party?

What have you got in here?

Well you're about to find out.

Am I correct that this is the same

woman who is staying at the palace?

It is.

Miss Pope is staying in

the upper ward.

Rumour has it Prince Henry brought her over

here to help Princess Rose's preparations

for the procession.

To overcome her fear of horses.

Yes.

There was no one in Bella

Moritz who could assist with this?

Apparently not.

Out with it.

Well forgive me, Your Majesty,

but bet on the image you see

here before you

these are two people who quite

clearly have a romantic connection.

One which I very much doubt the

people of Bella Moritz will support.

We do not know that to be true.

That the people would not support the

heir to the throne dating an American?

Or that Prince Henry and this Miss Pope

quite clearly have a romantic connection?

Based on an image captured

in an instant

by some theme park guest.

Which only through blind fortune

has not been widely published.

True.

But if they were to be

photographed together again

tongues will wag.

I will speak to Henry.

Send me the picture please.

It's like a Mary Poppins picnic

basket. What else is in here?

Honestly, I am not entirely

sure. The cook packed it for us.

I asked her to make

cucumber and mint sandwiches.

They're my favourite.

Better than frog's legs.

Well, some of my favourite

parties have been tea parties.

Pinkies out.

Is that a thing?

Every kingdom has its rules.

Right.

Hmm.

I was thinking about

our conversation.

- Which one?

- About connection

and how no one can be

comforted from a distance.

I would like to go into

Glenree. For a walkabout.

Perhaps you'd

like to come with me?

I'd love to.

I... I haven't been yet.

Fantastic.

Mama.

What do we have here?

We're having a tea party.

Pinkies out.

Rose rode Brownie solo

so we're celebrating.

Hmm.

Did you know Lacey

has tea parties at her castle?

- It's part of my show.

- And waltzing.

Papa and Lacey waltzed together.

Also part of your, er, show?

Sometimes.

Would you like some tea?

No, thank you.

And Rose, I'm so proud of you

for your accomplishment today.

Thank you.

Henry, might I have

a word with you in my office.

There's something

we need to discuss.

I shall send someone to help

you carry this back to the palace.

Thank you.

Where did you get this?

Mr Veron has deep contacts

with the press. They alerted him.

- It hasn't been published?

- No, Veron pulled strings.

But I suspect

the reprieve is temporary.

Let them publish it.

We've done nothing wrong.

Henry.

It's not as simple as that.

Lacey is the first woman you have

been photographed within years.

- And now she's in Bella Moritz.

- To help Rose.

Well that photo implies

otherwise, right or wrong.

And there no doubt

will be other photographs

once they learn that

she is in the palace.

I'm sure there will be. But I'm not

going to run away from Lacey's presence

on the basis of what

others might think.

- And I'm not going to send her home.

- I did not suggest that.

Nor would I.

She has done wonders for Rose,

I do see that.

- You do?

- Yes.

But you invite gossip, Henry.

There's gossip whether

I date or don't date.

Oh, so you are dating Miss Pope?

- I didn't say that.

- Well you didn't deny it either.

Consider taking Lady Sophia

out for dinner...

- Abso...

- Only to be photographed.

It will redirect the press

away from Lacey

until she returns to America.

Absolutely not.

And if anyone wants a comment

on Lacey we shall tell them the truth

that she is here to help.

That is all.

Lady Sophia.

It's Queen Eloise.

Does the disguise

really work here?

We'll find out.

It's definitely better

than the moustache I tried once.

Not your look?

Decidedly not.

Your country is so adorable.

I feel like I'm in a...

Don't laugh at this, but I

feel like I'm in a fairytale.

When I get to see it through the eyes

of someone for whom this is all new

I remember how fortunate I

am to call Bella Moritz my home.

And the connection

you mentioned.

That's what

I've been lacking, I think.

I hadn't been able to articulate

it until we had our conversation

but I haven't felt truly

connected to Bella Moritz.

For quite some time.

And how would that change

once you're king?

No one's ever asked

me that before.

I think I'd like

to open things up more.

Both the palace to the people

and the principality to the world.

Bella Moritz

tends to be overlooked.

Because we're small.

Oh, but your country

is so beautiful.

I mean, I am giving

it five stars.

I'm very glad to hear that.

And if I may say...

I'm...

very glad you're here.

Well, I'm glad I'm here too.

- Ice cream.

- Thanks.

I'd pay,

but I haven't got a wallet.

Hmm, likely story.

Rose would be most jealous she

couldn't come with us and eat ice cream.

Oh, I know. I think she'd look so

cute with a little ice cream moustache.

You make me laugh.

How are you not taken?

That's presumptuous of me.

No, I'm not dating anybody.

I mean, I was

until a few months ago.

We broke up because he didn't

like me playing Princess Sweet Pea.

He thought it was embarrassing.

What's to be embarrassed about?

You bring joy to so many people.

Thanks, but...

look, I know

it's not a real career.

It's just something I fell into while I

was waiting to do my Masters programme.

In what field?

Psychology.

Yeah, I've always been interested

in what makes people tick and feel

so I earned my Bachelors and then I didn't

get into the Master's programme I wanted

which meant that I needed a job.

And thus Princess Sweet Pea.

Mm-hmm.

I mean, it pays well,

it has full benefits

but most of all I just

love working with the kids.

But it isn't ultimately what

you want to do?

You know, it's more that I can't

be a theme park princess forever.

There's an age limit, so...

I have to figure out

what my next step will be.

Lacey.

You possess intelligence,

empathy and kindness.

Those are great qualities that will

take you as far as you wish to go.

And in terms of

next steps, well...

you could always

stay in Bella Moritz.

Until you

determine what that is.

I know Rose would be ecstatic.

And how would

you feel about that?

Look, it's the prince!

Er, it's all right.

Hello everyone.

It's alright. Hi everyone.

Okay, we don't mob a prince.

All right. If you wish to greet or to

take a photo with His Royal Highness

please form a line.

And wait your turn, understood?

Okay, we'll start with you.

Oh, okay. That was

very impressive.

Erm, hi.

Hi everyone.

Nice to see you all.

There we are.

- Hi. What's your name?

- Alanna.

Alanna?

That's a lovely name.

That was exhilarating.

Is that what it's like for you when

you host an event at the park?

My events are much less chaotic.

This was productive too.

When the Order of the Lily is over

I'm going to work to implement

some of the changes we discussed.

I had no idea there's so

much interest to tour the palace.

We should have

opened it up long ago.

I'm so glad it was productive.

You sure did

get your photo taken a lot.

We both did.

But I should tell you

it's not the first time.

What do you mean?

Someone took a photo of us

at Once Upon A Time.

Er, when I was in costume?

Yes.

There's a chance

it could hit the media.

But with me as Princess Sweet

Pea, not Lacey Pope, right?

Possibly both.

Oh, no.

What's wrong?

Mr Dole has this policy where

no cast member can be linked

to the character that they play.

That's why we don't have any photos of

ourselves in costume on our social media.

To create the illusion

that the characters are real.

I see. I'm so sorry.

Do you really think

they'll publish the photo?

No. And there may be

a way to see that they don't.

Hello, dear.

I've reconsidered your suggestion

about dinner with Sophia.

Excellent.

Your reservation is for

tomorrow evening at Maestral.

You already made

the reservation?

One should always prepare

for every scenario.

Bye.

What was that about?

If I may, you look like you did when you

were forced to eat frog's legs as a child.

Are you sure you

want to go on this date?

It's not a date.

It's merely dinner with a woman

who my mother and her advisors

deem acceptable for me.

Unlike a certain American.

Henry.

It's been a long time since

I've seen you look at a woman

the way you look at Lacey.

I'd hate to see

you run from that.

I'm not running from anything.

I'm doing this for Lacey

to deflect attention from her.

Does she know that?

Lacey.

Hi.

Hi.

I was just coming

to say goodnight to Rose.

Oh, she's fast asleep.

Did you have a slumber party?

We did. We built a fort out of

pillows and we ate lots of ice cream.

Good.

How was your dinner?

Fine.

Lady Sophia has always been

a charming dinner companion.

Though we did end early so she

could catch a flight for her ski vacation

with her boyfriend.

Boyfriend?

Why did she go out

to dinner with you then?

For the same reason

I had dinner with her.

To appease others.

Her boyfriend is a ski instructor

and her parents don't approve

because he's not of their...

station.

Hmm.

It occurs to me

when I gave you the tour

of the palace the other day

I failed to show you

my favourite place.

I used to come here all the

time when I was younger.

Drove mum mad

when she couldn't find me.

But it was a place

that felt like mine.

I still try to sneak away

if I'm able.

I can see why.

Thanks for sharing this with me.

You know, Lacey,

when I was out tonight...

You were all

I could think about.

Rose, I promise

you'll be absolutely fine.

There is nothing to worry about.

Rose!

Are you ready?

Will you ride with me?

I'm not in the cavalry, honey.

Please, like with the carousel.

Excuse me.

We're going to need you

to give us your uniform.

And your horse.

The procession will commence

presently, Ma'am.

And is Rose

joining us in the carriage?

Or is she

riding in the procession?

Your Highness.

Shall Princess Rose

be joining us in the carriage

this morning?

I'll be right next to you.

I'm so proud of you, Rose.

Thank you, papa.

- Hello.

- Oh, hi.

You make

an impressive cavalry guard.

Oh, this old thing?

Wait till you see my ball gown.

I'm looking forward to it.

Where's Rose?

She's resting.

It's been

a really big day for her.

Yes it was.

I have to go and greet

some dignitaries.

Of course, yeah.

Go do your prince thing.

That was quite

a trick you managed.

Trick?

Riding alongside Rose

and Henry at the procession.

With all due respect

it wasn't a trick,

I was just trying to comfort

a nervous little girl.

It worked.

To great success.

We shall

talk more later, Miss Pope.

It was a trick though,

was it not?

A way for you to curry favour

with the prince and his family.

Who are you?

I'm Lionel Veron, privy

council to the queen.

And as such, I sincerely hope

you appreciate it when I say

that we thank you for all that you

have done to help Princess Rose

through this momentous

period in her life.

And that now

it is time for you to go.

Well, actually I have

a ball to attend.

And then you'll dance

with the prince, fall in love.

You can't seriously think

that's going to happen.

I never said I did.

Good.

Because this is real life,

Miss Pope.

Not fairytale.

Realistically, were the prince

to form an attachment to...

an American theme park princess,

why, it would bring ridicule

onto the entire palace.

The queen would be forced to

abdicate out of embarrassment

and Prince Henry would never

be taken seriously as king.

And I don't think you want that.

I want what's best

for Henry and Rose.

If you truly believe that

you should leave here at once.

What?

Oh no, no, no, no, no.

Hello, Mr Dole.

Lacey.

I'm sure you

know why I'm calling.

Yes, I've just seen

the photos naming me.

You're aware of how

I feel about this situation.

I'm afraid I'm going to

have to let you go.

Yes I know the rules

and I understand your policy.

It was wonderful to be able to play

Princess Sweet Pea for as long as I did.

You will return the dress.

I'll return the dress

when I get home.

Will you make sure Prince Henry and Princess

Rose get those when the ceremony's over?

Aren't you going to attend?

No.

I'm going home.

Where's Lacey now?

She took a taxi from the palace

several hours ago.

What could cause this?

Everything went so well.

Daphne.

Do you know something?

I do not wish to speak ill.

You have our full protection.

After the procession, Miss

Lacey had a talk with Mr Veron

who warned Miss Pope to leave.

- What?

- Go on.

Miss Pope didn't want to leave

but he said if she

and Prince Henry ever dated

it would bring scandal

to the palace.

Is that it?

Thank you, Daphne.

This goes too far.

I recognise that with the position of

my birth comes certain responsibilities

and despite what you may think

I do approach those

responsibilities with great care.

- But I draw the line at this.

- Henry...

No, Mother. I know all too well

you have doubts about my judgement

and that influences

your decision on your own life

which I understand.

But who I give my heart to

is ultimately up to me.

And have you?

What?

Given your heart?

I've made no declaration.

Yet.

Henry, my dear son.

As a father...

I believe you will understand

me when I say

the greatest joy a parent can

give is that their child be happy.

No matter their age.

So as per our agreement,

I will not press Rose

to be tutored at the palace.

- Thank you, Mother.

- And as for your judgement,

I've come to realise,

while quick,

it can be better than my own

or that of my advisors.

And if you lead with your heart and

you show Bella Moritz the same care

with which you

have shown to Rose

then I know that the

country will be in safe hands.

It will.

- I promise.

- I believe you.

And so...

it is time to hand the torch on to

new generations with new ideas.

To you.

- Are you certain?

- I am.

For so many reasons.

And I fear I've been

too harsh at times.

And for that, I'm sorry.

You were correct

to bring Lacey here.

It was the right thing for Rose.

And I suspect for yourself?

I think she could be...

someone special for me.

Well then.

We have work to do.

If in the parlance

of fairytales you will,

go get the girl.

You okay?

You don't look okay.

I miss them.

Both of them.

At least you've been busy.

You'd think being fired

from your sorta dream job

would free up your schedule, but

I've barely seen you.

I've been very busy applying

for Masters programmes.

If there's one good thing that's

come out of everything, it's that...

I'm finally focused

on school again.

'Cause I know the area

that I want to focus on.

That's big.

Don't keep a girl in suspense.

I'm gonna do children's therapy with

an emphasis on equine assistance.

Horses.

Yeah, working with Rose

reminded me how much

riding helped me as a kid

when I was

going through hard times.

That and fairy princesses.

Yeah.

I'm gonna miss that.

Miss seeing how

happy the kids get.

It's not fair.

Mr Dole should have

made an exception.

It's not your fault you

ended up in the gossip sites.

I know. But his park, his rules.

Besides, we both know that

he was just looking for a reason

to transition to a new

Princess Sweet Pea.

Speaking of which, how is Kira?

Honestly, she's really nice.

Oh yeah, okay, well that's good.

You're still the best

Princess Sweet Pea of them all.

Well, I should hope so.

But seriously, nice

is very important

especially if you're

playing a fairytale princess.

Do you want me to take

those dresses back for you?

Erm...

No, I think I need the closure

of doing it myself.

Don't turn in that dress.

Mr Dole.

Ava said you would be here.

Just returning my dresses.

Is there any way I can convince

you to do one more show?

Right now. I'm begging.

You fired me.

Thus the begging.

Look, Kira called in sick

and I have no other options

for the next performance.

That's not very good begging.

And you are without question

the best Princess Sweet Pea that has ever

crossed the Once Upon A Time threshold.

That's better but no.

No?

It's time for me to put fairytales

to rest and enter the real world

but thank you for asking.

But we'll have to cancel

the next performance

and there's a child waiting,

she won't leave.

Apparently she really, really

loves Princess Sweet Pea.

Just this once.

Just this once.

This is your last time

as Princess Sweet Pea.

I know. But I'm ready.

- Lacey.

- Rose.

I'm sorry I didn't

say goodbye to you in person.

That's okay. I got your note.

And papa said we would visit you.

Hello.

I got your note.

I tried to call you.

I know.

I was afraid to tell you

that I was leaving.

Afraid?

That I wouldn't have the

courage to go if I saw you again.

Did you want to go?

No.

I've missed you both so much.

We...

I have missed you as well.

My apologies for your

conversation with Mr Veron.

His statements to you were

out of line and wholly untrue.

It wasn't just him.

I...

- I felt...

- What?

Unworthy.

It is I who am unworthy of you.

Though that won't

stop me from hoping.

Hoping what?

That you will do me the honour

of dancing with me.

Wait.

One second.

I'll be right back.

Where do you think she's going?

Re-doing her grand entrance.

Oh.

- Hello. My name's Ian.

- Ava.

- Pleased to meet you.

- Nice to meet you.

I wanted to dance

with you as Lacey.

Do you know how to dance?

I shall always

do my best for you.

Lead on.

You're being so mysterious.

What is going on?

I have no idea, my dear.

There's a surprise for you.

What is this?

Our family are known

for their surprises.

Great Uncle Will sent him.

He's one of Trisgates's sons.

He's beautiful.

But Rose already has a horse.

He's for you.

For me?

What's the occasion?

As part of your

children's therapy programme.

And hopefully...

as an engagement present.

Lacey Kendra Pope.

My love for you began with our

first dance and has only grown since.

Your kindness, strength

and so much joy.

And I am fortunate

to have earned your favour.

Will you please be my

forever princess?

That's... Yes.