Something was seriously wrong. Every year previous, on the first day of school, the Year Ones had their first lesson: “Princesses shall not cheer”. The teachers, usually so attentive and quick to manage any disruptions, sat unperturbed at the ends of each row. 

Alice remembered her first lesson well.

Queen Ariel had gently held Alice's hands in hers and explained that princesses did not shout but instead applauded politely. Determined to impress Queen Ariel, Alice had clapped as softly as possible. 

Today, the atmosphere was charged with tension. Alice glanced around at the crowd, noticing the furrowed brows and worried looks on the older student’s faces.

Confused, a girl named Dorthy whispered to Alice, "What’s going on?"

“I don’t know. It’s supposed to happen now, isn’t it?” Alice whispered back.

“The teachers aren't even doing anything!” Dorthy said. “Oh, look, Queen Aurora’s saying something.”