Royal-ish (2025) Movie Script
- 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.
- 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.