The king’s youngest daughter is our princess, and we serve her. When she comes into the forest and summons us: “Earthworkers, come out!” we appear from under every root and stone. When she asks for help, we ask no questions.

If she wants the forest cut down and the timber piled, we will do it. If she wants us to build a magnificent castle on the mountain, we will do it. If she wants us to clean out the king’s toxic pond and fill it with healthy fish, we will do it.

There is nothing we will not do for our princess.

Earthworkers in The Children of the Two Kings, Grimms. Illustration by Elenore Abbott.