Princess Ariel had few friends her own age, and Melina, who at a glance seemed none too sly, was just the right sort to make friends with; she could provide Princess Ariel with the chance to step away from her weighty official duties and the cutthroat intrigue, allowing her spirit some respite.
In the course of their interactions, their relationship grew quite strong, and they often arranged to hang out together.
Melina glanced at her mother and, upon receiving Withered Rose's approval, happily took Princess Ariel by the hand and left.
Watching their departing figures, Withered Rose suddenly had a strange thought.
When the time comes for the destruction of Laine and her own demise, she hoped that if Princess Ariel truly did take her place, she would be kind to Melina.
Withered Rose shook her head; this was not something she should be concerned about.
