The Morning That Changed Everything

Queen India opened her eyes to find herself in a bed made entirely of ice. The room sparkled with frozen walls that reached high above her head. Everything looked backwards somehow.

"Your Majesty!" called a small voice. A girl with blonde braids rushed toward her. "I'm so glad you're awake!"

India sat up slowly. "Sofia? Where are we?"

"The Ice Queen's palace," Sofia said, her breath making tiny clouds. "But something strange is happening here. The servants are telling everyone what to do, and the Ice Queen is washing dishes in the kitchen!"

India looked around the glittering chamber. Through the frosted windows, she could see snow-covered mountains. This wasn't her palace at all.

The Monkey's Kitchen Lesson

A small monkey wearing a chef's hat swung down from an icy chandelier. "Your Majesty must scrub the floors now!" he chattered, pointing a tiny wooden spoon at India.

Sofia giggled. "See? The servants really are giving orders here."

India stared at the monkey. At home, she had always told others what to do. Now this little creature expected her to clean? She picked up a mop from the corner.

"Not like that!" the monkey squeaked. "Watch me first." He grabbed a smaller mop and showed her the proper technique, moving in careful circles.

India tried to copy him, but slipped on the wet ice and tumbled backward. Sofia helped her up, laughing.

"Even monkeys can teach queens," Sofia whispered.