Chapter 1- Stepping Into a New Life
Mistresses Flora, Fauna and Merryweather opened a leatherback storybook. It's cover consisted of two identical amulets of purple and blue, which intertwined with each other.
"Once upon a time in the magical Kingdom of Enchancia there lived two young girls named Sofia and Madeline", Merryweather began. "Madeline and Sofia led a simple life assisting at the village shoe shop with their mother, Miranda".
"But all stories have at least one little hiccup", Flora interjected, "Madeline has been blind since birth and never goes anywhere without her trusty guide dog, Genevieve".
"But even though she's as blind as a bat-", Merryweather butted in.
"She still kept her great spirit".
"One fateful day, they were summoned by King Roland the Second, who needed a new pair of royal slippers", Fauna continued.
"Oh, I hope they're blue!" Merryweather interrupted.
"No, red!" Flora interjected as both girls walked with their Mother to the throne.
"We'll see", Fauna declared stopping the small disagreement.
"Sofia, Madeline and their Mother arrived at the castle", Flora narrated. "The girls were very excited to meet the King."
"Miranda placed a slipper on the King's foot", Merryweather continued.
"It was a perfect fit, and so were they." Flora returned, as the two sisters shared a small smile with each other. Sofia could see the couple embrace while Madeline could tell because of Genevieve's happy panting. That and she was getting whacked by her tail.
"King Roland and Miranda were soon married."
*Flashback*
In the village of Dunwitty, in a small room above a shoe shop, Miranda was very busy getting things prepared. Her visit to the castle to provide a new pair of shoes for King Roland had had a very unexpected outcome. It had been love at first sight for her and the king, and he had then proposed to her in due course. Miranda had said yes immediately, but, now that she was back at her home, the consequences of he decision were starting to dawn on her.
Miranda was just a simple shoemaker. Could she really make it as a queen? Any kind of royal needed to show decorum and leadership. Was Miranda capable of doing those things? And then there was Sofia and Madeline. Uprooting them from their village and home so that they could go live in the castle would be a very big change for them. However, Miranda was sure that her daughters would be able to rise to the occasion. She loved Roland, and even though they had only just met she wanted to be with him forever.
The wedding was scheduled for the next morning. Miranda had asked Sofia and Madeline to be her flower girls, and they had enthusiastically agreed. At the moment, Miranda was trying on her wedding dress one last time.
"Hey, mom." Sofia walked in along with Madeline and Genevieve. "Wow, you look amazing!"
"Thanks, dear." Miranda smiled. "I hope the king likes it."
"He'll love it." Sofia declared. "It's going to be the best wedding ever, you'll see!"
"Yes, we will." Miranda chuckled.
"I just thought of something." Madeline realized. "What will happen to our shoe shop? We'll still get to run it, right Mom?"
"No, Madeline." Miranda shooked her head. "After the wedding, the three of us will be moving into the castle, and we won't be working at the shop anymore."
"Oh." Madeline said quietly.
"But, Mom," Sofia interrupted. "What about Lily Oaks? I'm going into the second grade this year, and Madeline's going into the first grade."
"No more Lily Oaks, I'm afraid." Miranda told her. "You'll both be going to a new school this school year."
"Okay, mom." Sofia and Madeline said sadly.
Miranda could tell that Sofia and Madeline were both a little sad about Leaving Lily Oaks, so she decided to do something to cheer them up.
"Tell you what." She smiled. "Why don't the two of you go and play with your friends? Then when you come back, I'll make the pair of you your favorite dinner. How does that sound?"
"Great!" Sofia smiled.
"Yeah, thanks, mom."Madeline smiled.
"For you two, anything." Miranda smiled at them. "Have fun, darlings."
"See you at dinner!" Sofia waved before turning to Madeline. "Come on Maddie, let's go."
As Sofia, Madeline, and Genevieve left the room, Miranda eased out of her wedding dress, hanging it in her closet. Later on that night after dinner, Miranda waited as Sofia and Madeline got settled into the bed that they shared and Genevieve laying at their feet so that she could tuck them in before settling into her own bed directly next to theirs.
"I guess tomorrow's the big day, huh mom?" Sofia mused.
"Yeah, the day everything changes."Madeline added.
"Not everything, girls." Miranda smiled. "You both will always have me, and each other. Now let's get some sleep. We've got a big day ahead of us tomorrow, and we're all going to need our rest."
"Okay, mom." Sofia and Madeline both nodded, resting their heads on their pillows. The two girls soon fell asleep, and Miranda joined them not long after.
The next morning, at the castle, Baileywick and the staff were getting everything ready for the Royal Wedding.
"Well, your majesty, today is the big day." Baileywick said to Roland.
"Yes indeed it is Baileywick." Roland nodded. "I just hope Queen Miranda, Sofia, and Madeline will be happy here."
"I know they will, sir." Baileywick nodded.
Meanwhile, Miranda had to wake early for the wedding. First, she made breakfast for herself, Sofia, and Madeline. Then, she donned her wedding dress. A knock on the door a few minutes later announced the arrival of her bridesmaids, Ruby and Jade's mothers.
"Just in time, ladies." Miranda smiled.
"Oh Miranda, we wouldn't miss your wedding for the world." Helen smiled in return.
"Sofia, Madeline, go on upstairs and get changed, please." Miranda told them.
"Okay, mom." Sofia and Madeline smiled.
As the two girls made their way upstairs, Helen turned to Miranda and asked, "So do Sofia and Madeline know that you and Roland will be going on your honeymoon after the wedding?"
"No, I haven't told them yet." Miranda admitted, heaving a sigh. "I haven't even considered where they'll be staying. The castle will be too new for them..."
"Well, Ruby is having Jade over for a sleepover tonight."Helen noted. "Sofia and Madeline are both more than welcome to join them, and then stay with us until you and Roland return."
"That's a great idea, Helen. Thank you." Miranda smiled.
Just then, Sofia and Madeline came back down the stairs dressed in their flower girl dresses with Sofia wearing pink and purple and Madeline wearing blue and yellow, and each with a flower tucked behind their right ear. Even Genevieve was dressed up for the occasion with her fur freshly groomed and flowers adorning her harness.
"Good news, girls." Miranda smiled. "The two of you will be going over to Ruby's house tonight for a sleepover with her and Jade, and then you both will stay with them for the weekend while I go on a little trip with King Roland."
"That's great." Sofia smiled. "Really great!" Madeline added.
Looking over at the clock on the wall Helen said, "Alright ladies, it's time for us to leave for the wedding."
Walking outside, they all climbed into the royal carriage that was waiting to take them to the castle. As they rode down the village streets, the villagers cheered for Miranda as they passed, offering her congratulations and wishes of good luck with the wedding. After a short trip, the carriage came to a stop in front of the castle steps. As they stepped out of the carriage, Sofia gazed up in awe at her surroundings.
"Are we really going to be living here?" Sofia asked.
"Yes, we are." Miranda smiled.
"It's so big." Sofia stared.
"Come on, now." Miranda smiled. "There'll be plenty of time for sightseeing later."
As they walked up the steps, the group was met by Baileywick.
"Greetings ladies, if you all will follow me this way please." He offered.
The females followed Baileywick to the castle ballroom, where the wedding was being held. Miranda smiled as she saw Roland looking handsome in a blue suit waiting for her, and Roland eagerly returned the smile. Sofia waved to two of her future step-siblings James who was dressed in the same blue suit as his father, and Amber who was standing next to their father wearing a green flower girl dress. James waved back, but Amber barely looked at her.
As Miranda, Sofia, Madeline, Helen, and Alice walked down the stairs, they were greeted by Sofia and Madeline's third and oldest future step-sibling Matilda wearing a magenta bride's maid dress.
"Hi Princess Matilda." Sofia smiled. "I love your dress. It's so pretty."
"Thank you Sofia. I like your's and Madeline's dresses as well." Madeline smiled. Turning to Miranda, Matilda continued. "Miranda, that dress is absolutely beautiful on you. Dad won't be able to take his eyes off of you."
"Why thank you Matilda." Miranda smiled.
"I also wanted to thank you for making me one of your bride's maids." Matilda added.
"Oh there's no need to thank me Matilda." Miranda said. "I wouldn't have had it any other way. I only wish that Amber could have agreed to walk down the aisle with you, Sofia, and Madeline."
"As do I." Madeline said, glancing down the aisle at Amber.
"Why doesn't Amber want to walk with us?" Sofia asked. "Is it because of me and Madeline?"
Matilda shook her head and said. "No Sofia it's not because of you and Madeline. Amber is just really attached to our dad, and wanted to stay beside him rather than walk down the aisle, that's all."
"Oh, okay." Sofia said.
At that moment they were joined by Ruby, Jade, Kate and Lizzy. Still standing with Matilda, Miranda watched Sofia and Madeline as they talked with their best friends.
"Miss Miranda, it's time for me to walk you down the Aisle." Baileywick declared.
"Okay, just a minute, please." Miranda said. "Helen, Alice, Matilda, Sofia, Madeline, Jade and Ruby. Places, please."
The girls formed a line that would follow Miranda and Baileywick. Sofia went first followed by Madeline with Genevieve. As she walked, Sofia couldn't help feeling nervous about what would come after the wedding, and she knew that Madeline was too. Their mother and Roland would be leaving for their honeymoon right after the wedding. Sofia was a little nervous about the prospect of her and Madeline not seeing their mother for so long. They had slept over with their friends for one night every so often, but they had never been away from their mother for an entire weekend before. For the moment, Sofia decided to put her fears aside, so as not to ruin their mother's big day.
Standing in line waiting for their signal to start walking, Sofia glanced over at Madeline and noticed her fidgeting with the flowers on Genevieve's harness handle. Placing her hand on Madeline's arm, Sofia asked. "Madeline, you doing alright?"
"I'm nervous, Sofia." Madeline said. "What if I fall as I'm walking down the aisle?"
"You won't fall, Madeline, I promise." Sofia said. "I'll be right beside you, and you'll have Genevieve to guide you."
"Okay, Sofia." Madeline said, taking a deep breath.
Hearing the music start to play, Sofia said. "Alright, there's the signal. Come on Madeline, Genevieve, time to start walking."
As they walked, she, Madeline, Ruby and Jade reached into their baskets and flung flowers at either side of the pews as Miranda reached the altar. The local vicar officiated the ceremony.
"Ladies and gentlemen." He announced. "We are here today to join King Roland Miranda in holy matrimony. Do you, King Roland, take Miranda to be your lawful wedded wife, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, til death do you part?"
"I do." Roland smiled.
"And do you, Miranda, take King Roland to be your lawful wedded husband, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, til death do you part?" The vicar continued.
"I do." Miranda declared.
"Then, by the power vested in me, I now pronounce you man and wife." The Vicar declared. "You may now kiss the bride."
The newly-married couple embraced in a kiss. The crowd cheered, none more so then Sofia and Madeline.
The post-wedding dance was a solemn, dignified affair. The guests danced slowly to regal-sounding music. Sofia and Madeline were a little bored with it. As Miranda and Roland danced, Roland asked a question.
"What will become of Sofia and Madeline during our honeymoon?" He asked. "I assume you've made arrangements?"
"Of course. Miranda nodded. "They'll be staying at my friend Helen's with her daughter for the weekend."
"I see." Roland nodded. "Well thought out, my queen."
"I really am a queen now, aren't I?" Miranda smiled. "It'll take some getting used to."
"Take all the time you need." Roland smiled back.
Sitting at a table off to the side from the dance floor Madeline heaved a sigh and asked. "Sofia, why can't we dance with mom too?"
"Because we can't Madeline. This is mom and King Roland's first dance together as husband and wife." Sofia said, walking over to the table and retrieving a book from the bag at Madeline's feet. "Here, read your book that I packed for you."
"Thanks, Sofia." Madeline said as she opened her book.
Stepping away from the table, Sofia went to stand next to Matilda and said. "Sorry about Madeline. She's just not used to having someone else dancing with mom."
"No need to say you're sorry Sofia. I know how younger sisters and brothers can be." Matilda said as she turned to check on her own siblings. "James Roland MacArthur, back away from that wedding cake right now, and Amber Marie MacArthur, don't even think about interrupting mom and dad's first dance!"
Turning back to Sofia, Matilda smiled sheepishly as she said. "Sorry."
"That's alright, Princess Matilda." Sofia said. "I'm just glad that Maddie is at least sitting quietly."
As the time passed, Sofia and Matilda continued to talk while keeping watchful eyes on their own siblings. After the festivities wound down, the happy couple prepared to leave.
"You two be good for Mrs. Hanshaw, okay Sofia, okay Madeline?" Miranda asked.
"We will, mom." Sofia and Madeline nodded. "See you soon."
Miranda hugged her daughters tightly, and kissed them on the forehead.
"Not soon enough." She smiled.
After Miranda and Roland departed, Helen took Sofia, Madeline, and Ruby to her house. That night, Sofia and Madeline tried to sleep, but couldn't.
"What's wrong, Sofia, Madeline?" Ruby asked.
"Mom said we won't be working in the shop anymore, now that she's a queen." Sofia admitted.
"But you'll still be going to Lily Oaks, right?" Ruby asked.
"No." Madeline shook her head. "We'll be going to a new school."
"Oh." Ruby said. "but look on the bright side. You're both going to be princesses! And you both get a new dad!"
"As long as he's not like our old one." Sofia said under her breath.
"Huh?" Ruby asked.
"Oh, nothing." Sofia lied. "Let's get some some sleep."
"Alright." Ruby said while sharing a glance with Jade.
Sofia tossed and turned, but eventually went to sleep along with Madeline. Her worries about their upcoming new life persisted, though. Strange dreams about their new home and school haunted her until morning.
*End Flashback*
"And what seemed like a storybook ending... was really a storybook beginning." Merryweather finished.
Sofia and Madeline sat on their bedroom window seat. Sofia holding a doll with brown hair and Madeline stroking Genevieve's head.
"Sofia, Madeline, it's time to go!" Miranda called,"The coach is waiting!"
"Coming, mom!" The girls chorused.
Sofia ran out of the room, but Madeline stopped to put on Genevieve's harness while Sofia came back to grab the heart shape picture she made of themselves and their mother. As they stepped outside, they found the entire village cheering for them.
Sofia, Madeline and Genevieve joined their mother in the royal carriage, which was accompanied by two palace guards for protection. Unbeknownst to them, a handful of nearby animals hitched a ride as they started moving.
As the carriage moved down the streets, it was chased by Sofia's friends Jade and Ruby, and Madeline's friends Kate and Graham.
"Good luck, Sofia and Madeline!" Jade called.
"Good luck, Madeline! And Lizzy said to tell you goodbye!" Kate called.
"Don't forget about us!" Ruby and Graham yelled out together.
"Bye, Jade! Bye, Ruby!" Sofia waved.
"Bye, Kate, tell Lizzy bye for me! Bye, Graham!" Madeline waved too. She giggled as Genevieve poked her head out too and barked a farewell.
And so, they left the village for the castle.
Soon enough they neared their new home.
Sofia said, "Look mom, we're almost there!"
"What's it look like Sofia?" Her sister asked in excitement.
"Big and majestic", Sofia described. She then asked her mom a question,"What do you think our room at the castle's going to be like?"
"I hope there's enough room for all of us!" Madeline added.
"You'll be getting your own rooms, girls." Miranda smiled.
"Yes!" The three females said in unison. Genevieve barked.
"And you too Genevieve", Miranda smiled at the dog.
As they passed through the grand gates, they encountered a large crowd of people who had come just to see the new members of the royal family. A number of doves were released, and two pairs of specially trained birds placed tiaras on Sofia and Madeline's heads, who had changed into new royal gowns enroute. Even Genevieve was snazzier with her new collar and harness.
King Roland and his own children, Matilda, James and Amber, watched their new family approach.
"Uh-oh", James smirked, as Sofia and Madeline neared them. "Looks like someone's not gonna be the fairest in the land anymore".
Amber hid a scowl behind her fan.
"Amber, James, I trust you will do your best to make your new sisters feel welcome", King Roland told his offspring.
"Of course, Farther", Amber said dully.
"Your majesty", Sofia and Madeline said in unison. They curtsied, then giggled lightly while Genevieve did her best doggy bow.
"King Roland the Second", Miranda smiled as she walked up to her new husband.
"Queen Miranda", Roland replied, kissing his new wife's hand.
"Hey there!" Sofia said to her new siblings.
"Good morrow Sofia", James replied. "Madeline".
"Great morrow, Prince James!" Sofia smiled, as both girls curtsied.
"Princess Amber, Princess Matilda, Sofia and I are so excited we're going to be sisters!", Madeline squealed. She didn't look directly at her, but she knew she was there.
"Stepsisters", Amber corrected her. She eyed Genevieve disapprovingly. "What's with the m-dog?" She was very tempted to say mutt, but she held it back, for now. Standing behind Amber Matilda scowled at her sister's words.
"Oh, this is Genevieve", Madeline smiled as she gestured to her trusty pal. "She has been my loyal companion since I was little, well littler".
"Amber, James, Matilda, I know there aren't many fairy tales about kind loving stepmothers", Miranda said as she approached her new stepchildren. "But I hope to change that". She handed them three small patches. "These are for you. I made them myself."
Madeline and Sofia remember how their Mother was working late at night and surprisingly still have full energy in the morning.
"It's our family crest", James noticed.
"That's right, James", Miranda agreed. "Because that's what all of this is really about, becoming a new family".
"Sofia, Madeline, welcome to the Family", King Roland smiled. Genevieve barked. "And you too Genevieve", he added with a chuckle as he patted her on the head.
"All hail queen Miranda, Princess Sofia and Princess Madeline!" Baileywick, the castle steward declared.
The crowd cheered.
At that moment, Cedric, the royal sorceror, came out of the royal procession.
"Roje flora!" He yelled, pointing his wand to the sky. A burst of magic flew out, and it started to rain.
The crowd gasped.
"Cedric, I said flowers, not showers", Roland told Cedric testily.
"Oh, excuse me Your Majesty", Cedric apologised. "I'm still breaking in my new wand". Stepping closer to Cedric Sari whispered, "Just take a deep breath Ced, and stop messing with your wand before something else happens."
"That's Cedric, our royal sorcerer," Roland told Sofia and Madeline, "He comes from a long line of royal sorcerers, so we're stuck with him. The lady with brown hair next to him is his girlfriend and our other royal sorceress Sari. She too comes from a long line of royal sorcerers, and is very gifted."
Clumsily, Cedric patted the back of his wand, sending out another magic burst that flew behind him, ricocheted off a door, and into the sky. The rain was then replaced by a shower of rose petals.
"Ooh, rose petals." Sofia said, holding her hands out in awe.
"It must be so pretty", Madeline said wistfully.
"I'm sorry Maddie", Sofia apologised.
"It's fine," Madeline shrugged.
The crowd cheered again. Sofia noticed her step siblings waving.
"Should we wave?" she asked.
"Yes, you should both wave", Amber replied curtly.
"Right", Sofia started waving. "Hi!"
"Hello!" Madeline called following suite even though she had no idea who she was, or supposed to be waving to.
Soon after, they entered the castle. Sofia, Madeline and Genevieve walked with Amber, Sofia curtsying to each member of staff they passed.
"We don't have to curtsy unless they're royalty", Amber told them, with the air of explaining the simplest thing in the world .
"Oh, right", Sofia blushed.
Matilda said, "Amber, I think that I am going to have to have a long talk with you before Bedtime tonight."
"I think it's going to take us a while to get the hang of things around here", Madeline mused as she walked with her dog.
"Just follow my lead and you two will be okay", Amber sniffed.
"Great", Sofia smiled, walking ahead of Amber.
"That means I lead and the rest of you follow", Their new stepsister said haughtily, moving ahead of them.
"Oh, okay", Sofia shrugged, "Following."
Matilda said, "That is IT Amber Marie MacArthur! You come back her right now, and walk with your new sisters."
Amber said, "Ha! You aren't the boss of me."
Matilda stopped in front of Amber as she replied, "Oh that's where you are wrong Amber. I am your's and James's older sister, which means that I most certainly can tell you what you should and shouldn't do. And technically since I am the oldest you should have to follow AFTER ME."
Going to stand beside Sofia, Madeline, and Genevieve Matilda continued, "You go on ahead into the Banquet Hall Amber, I will continue walking with Sofia, Madeline, and Genevieve."
Glancing briefly at Sofia, Madeline, and Genevieve, Amber looked back at Matilda, and said, "Why do you care? They don't belong here."
Matilda looked at Amber sternly as she replied, "That's enough Amber Marie there will be no dessert for you tonight young lady. And don't worry about talking to dad, because he will agree with my decision after I tell him and our new mom all about this."
Glaring at Matilda Amber simply groaned in annoyance as she turned and continued to walk down the hall alone.
Shaking her head slightly Matilda turned back to face Sofia and Madeline and said, "I am so sorry about my younger sister and how she has acted."
Sofia said, "It's okay Matilda, you don't have to apologize."
Matilda shook her head again as she replied, "No Sofia I do have to apologize. Amber shouldn't have acted like that...How about I make it up to you by giving the three of you a tour of the castle after dinner?"
Sofia smiled and said, "That would be nice Matilda, thank you." Turning to Madeline Sofia continued, "What do you think Madeline?"
Her voice small, Madeline said, "I guess that would be nice."
Hearing the uncertainty in her sister's voice Sofia squeezed Madeline's hand as she said, "It will be okay Maddie. I'll tell you everything that I see and I'm sure that Matilda won't mind if you touch things as we go."
Placing her hand on Madeline's shoulder, Matilda said, "Of course you can touch things as we go. You can touch whatever you like. After all, the castle is your's and Sofia's home now too."
Smiling, Madeline nodded her head in agreement. With the decision made the girls continued to make their way down the hall. Suddenly as they passed the throne room doors, Sofia stopped to look at something causing Matilda to come to a stop beside her. Being just behind them, Genevieve came to a halt which signaled Madeline to stop as well.
"Sofia, Matilda, why did you two stop?" Madeline asked.
Sofia said nothing. When Madeline was about to ask again, she heard it.
"Oh do be careful mate,"one man said to other. "That's the new princesses's thrones."
Sofia and Genevieve watched while Madeline listened, as the two men brought in three thrones that were pink, purple and blue.
"Madeline I can't believe this is happening to us." Sofia said in wonderment. Genevieve barked while Madeline nodded in agreement.
At that moment, the two girls bumped into Cedric and Sari. Madeline almost lost her balance but Sari caught her in the nick of time.
"Why don't the pair of you watch where you two are dawdling?" Cedric huffed.
"Sorry, Mr. Ceedric", Sofia apologized.
"It's Cedric", Cedric corrected her.
From beside him Sari said, "Cedric, be nice please." Turning to Sofia and Madeline Sari continued, "I apologize for my boyfriend, he can be a bit corky with children. And I am terribly sorry that he almost knocked you and your dog down Princess Madeline."
"It's okay Miss Sari," Madeline smiled, "I can't tell you how great it is to meet a real life sorcerer and sorceress, right Genevieve?" At that Genevieve gave a loud bark.
"That flower trick was a-mazing," Sofia marveled.
"If by amazing, you mean a complete waste of my talents, then yes thank you very much," Cedric replied. "I should be out slaying dragons, and battling ogres. But no! Instead King Roland has me doing party tricks when I should be..."
At that moment Baileywick cleared his throat, interrupting the rambling sorcerer.
"Oh why do I even bother?" Cedric huffed before disappearing in a large puff of green smoke.
"Urgh, that man," Sari said shaking her head, "I swear that I will see to it that he is nicer to you two from now on. As for now, I must say good-bye to you all."
That having been said, Sari disappeared in a small puff of red smoke.
Giggling softly Matilda said, "Don't worry, you'll get used to Cedric, and Sari is extremely nice as you both just witnessed." Gesturing her hand towards Baileywick Matilda continued, "And this is Baileywick, the castle steward."
"Thank you Princess Matilda," Baileywick said with a bow. Turning to Sofia and Madeline Baileywick continued, "Ladies, as the castle steward, it is my responsibility to make sure that everything in the castle is where it should be when it should be, and the four of you should have been in the Banquet Hall thirty seconds ago."
"Oh, right,"Sofia smiled.
"Off you all go then," Baileywick said, spurring them on.
"Going," Madeline giggled.
"Yes Baileywick," Matilda said with a smile.
As they walked into the Banquet Hall, Baileywick saw Miranda standing over Madeline's plate. "Excuse me Your Highness."Baileywick said. "But is there something wrong?"
"Oh no, Baileywick." Miranda smiled. "I'm just making Madeline's food look like the time of a clock to make it easier and a little fun for her while she eats."
Waiting as Madeline sat down, Miranda leaned over and said. "Madeline, the two chickens are at 4 o'clock, the water and juice are at 11 o'clock, your side dish are at 9 o'clock, and the pudding is at 2 o'clock."
"Thanks, mom."Madeline smiled.
"You're welcome, sweetheart." Miranda said.
Eyeing Madeline's plate James asked. "What's with the time, mom?"
Miranda said. "It's something that I do so that Madeline knows where each piece of food is on her plate, James."
"Oh." James said before filling his mouth with food.
"Fascinating." Roland said. "Baileywick, please have the kitchen staff prepare Madeline's meals like the time of a clock from now on."
Baileywick said. "Of course Your Majesty. I will speak with the cooks as soon as dinner is over."
Hearing the request being made Madeline said. "But mom, I like the way that you do the clock. I don't want the kitchen to do the clock face. It might make the meals late."
"I don't know about that sweetheart." Miranda smiled. "But if it makes you feel better, I'll go to the kitchens before each meal and help the staff prepare your plates. Okay?"
"Okay, mom." Madeline smiled.
Turning to Baileywick, Miranda asked. "Would that be possible for me to do Baileywick?"
"Of course Your Highness." Baileywick nodded. "I shall inform the kitchen staff about this as soon as I possibly can."
"Sofia, Madeline", King Roland said suddenly, causing both girls to jump and yelp.
"Yes, your Majesty?" Madeline asked.
"Call me Roland, or you with the crown, or dad", he joked, "It's a tradition to provide an official welcome to every new member of the royal family. For your Mother, it was the wedding. But for you two we will be throwing a royal ball in honor of the two of you at the week's end".
"Brilliant!" James cheered through a mouthful of food.
"James, manners", Baileywick admonished him.
"Sorry Baileywick", James gulped.
"A ball, just for the two of us?" Sofia gasped.
"Father, why didn't I get a ball?" Amber suddenly asked.
"You did Amber", Roland informed her, "When you and your brother were born. Matilda was the same way as well."
"You don't remember?" James snickered. Why would she?
"Sofia and Madeline, it will be your royal debut", Roland continued, "The three of us shall dance the first waltz".
"Oh, Rollie, you're so sweet", Miranda gushed.
"We have to dance?" Sofia and Madeline said together.
Madeline remembered their last at their old school. Sofia was still a little sick that day and Madeline was a little better (but not by much). The school dance had been that night, and Madeline had taken her sister place. It did't turn out as well as their Mom had hoped for. Let's just say if your blind and dancing for the first time, don't pretend you're not.
"What better way to let everyone in the Tri-Kingdom area know that Princess Sofia and Princess Madeline have arrived", Roland smiled.
Sofia looked at Madeline with worry in her eyes. She was obviously going to find it a bit harder.
Pausing for a moment, Amber said. "Father, why does Genevieve have to be in the dinning room with us while we eat? I mean, you don't even allow James's dog Rex in the dinning room or in the castle unless it's raining."
"That is true, Amber." King Roland said. "Baileywick, please take Miss Genevieve out to the garden."
"What?" Madeline exclaimed. "Please Your Majesty, Genevieve hasn't done anything wrong."
Roland said. "I am sorry Madeline, but no pets are allowed in the dinning room, even Genevieve. She will have to wait outside with Rex."
Hearing Baileywick lead Genevieve from the room, tears sprang to Madeline's eyes as she said. "No, I want Genevieve BESIDE ME, just like always."
Leaning towards her sister, Sofia said. "It'll be alright Maddie. I am right here next to you, and after dinner I am sure that Matilda will show us outside so that we can get Genevieve. Now dry those tears please."
From across the table, Matilda said. "Of course Madeline. Outside will be our first stop on the tour."
Turning to Miranda, Roland said. "I didn't think that Madeline would get this upset Miranda."
Miranda said. "Well Rollie, Genevieve has been with Madeline since Madeline was just a year old and Genevieve was a puppy. So naturally, Genevieve and Madeline have a rather strong bond with one another."
Having been watching Amber for a few minutes, Matilda said. "Oh I almost forgot, Dad, Mom, Amber was being a little snippety towards Sofia and Madeline before we came to dinner."
Looking over at Amber, Roland said. "Amber Marie MacArthur, you and I will most certainly be talking after dinner."
"But Daddy." Amber said. "I just wanted..."
"Not another word Amber." Roland said sternly. "Now finish your dinner."
At that word Matilda added. "Oh, and Dad, Amber can't have dessert tonight."
Considering this, Roland said. "Matilda, I..."
"No Matilda is right Rollie." Miranda interrupted. "Amber did a bad thing, so she has to be punished for it."
"You're both right." Roland said. "I'm sorry Amber, but since you chose to give your new sisters a hard time, you will have no dessert for one week."
Scowling Amber said. "But Daddy, why are you taking Mother and Matilda's side? It's isn't fair."
"That's enough Amber." Roland said. "Please go and wait for me in your bedroom."
"Fine." Amber said as she rose from her seat and left the dinning room.
After dinner, as promised, Matilda led Sofia and Madeline out to the garden to retrieve Genevieve, and then proceeded to give them a tour of the castle. Sofia and Madeline were amazed by everything that they saw, or in Madeline's case was described in detail by Sofia. Everything was all so big, and grand to them.
Once the tour was completed, Matilda took Sofia and Madeline to meet up with Baileywick so that he could show them their words. After guiding them down a few hallways, Baileywick brought them to a tall single door, through which was a set of double doors. Grasping the door handles Baileywick opened the doors, revealing a large and luxurious room.
"This is our room?" Sofia gasped.
"No, dears", Baileywick chuckled, "This is just your room Sofia".
Baileywick opened another door revealing a massive bedroom with elegant windows, perfectly crafted toys, and a royal large-sized bed.
"It's so huge", Sofia gaped.
"Seems like your standard princess suite to me", Baileywick replied. "You've got your canopy beds, window seat, playing area, reading nook...", He opened another door, revealing a massive wardrobe of regal clothing. "Here you'll find all your gowns and royal accessories".
"Wow", Sofia gasped.
"Indeed", Baileywick continued, "Now, if you need anything at all, at any time of day, all you have do is ring this bell", he then told them and pulling on the tasselled bell ringer. Barely a second later, a maid entered through the doorway.
"Yes, ma'ams", She stood ready to serve. "You rang?"
"Do you need anything?" Baileywick asked the girls.
"I don't know", Sofia shrugged.
"Do we?" Madeline asked.
"Well, when you know what you need, you know what to do", Baileywick smiled as he ushered the maid out of the room. "Now Princess Madeline if you, Miss Genevieve, and Princess Sofia will please follow me next door to the door on your right I will now show you to your room." Placing a guiding hand on her sister's shoulder, Sofia replied, "Lead the way Baileywick."
Walking out of the bedroom Baileywick led them to the bedroom next door, and opened the doors for Sofia, Madeline, and Genevieve.
"What's it look like Sofia?" Madeline asked, her voice filled with excitement.
"It's amazing, Madeline," Sofia replied as she guided her sister into the room. "You have a large canopy bed just like mine directly ahead of you on your right. There's even a gorgeous dog bed for Genevieve directly beside it. Your closet is the first door on the far wall to your left."
"Your trunk is at the end of your bed, right here," Sofia paused to allow Madeline to run her hand along the full length of the trunk. "Now the best part of your room is directly across from the right side of your bed, which is where you're standing now. Straight ahead about six steps away is a window seat between two book shelves...or reading nook as Baileywick called it."
Baileywick cleared his throat slightly before speaking up, "And on that note about the reading nook, Princess Madeline, I am please to tell you that I have made a request to get you some new sets of books in Braille. You can expect the classics by tomorrow afternoon, and then we can work on getting any other books you might like to have after that."
"Now just like in your sister's room, Princess Madeline, you also have a bell that you can ring if you need anything, and it is located to the right of your closet door," Baileywick continued. "There is also a special door that connects your room to Princess Sofia's room, and it's located on right hand side as you enter your room and just a few steps away from your bed."
"Wow," Sofia and Madeline replied together with identical smiles on their faces.
"Now unless there is anything else that either of you require, then I will bid you good evening, Princess Sofia", Baileywick declared, "Princess Madeline".
Stepping out of the room, Baileywick pulled the doors shut behind him.
"Night!" Sofia and Madeline called together.
The two girls looked around the room, well Sofia looked, Madeline was just moving her head.
"Wow, this is really... something", Madeline declared. "I may not be able to see it but I can tell. I can hear the expensive floors and all. It even smells really fancy".
"You took the words right out of my mouth", Sofia agreed.
Madeline said, "I wonder who came up with the idea of putting a door between our rooms for us?"
Sofia said, " It was probably Mom since she knows that there are certain nights when you don't like to sleep by yourself, like when there's a thunderstorm. AND BESIDES the door will make it easier for me to check in on you since you do sometimes like to wonder off during the night."
Madeline said, "No I don't Sofia!"
Crossing her arms Sofia said, "Yes you do Maddie, like that one time during our sleepover with Ruby and Jade. I let you sleep in our bed, and when I woke up at around two a.m. you were already out the door with Genevieve. If I hadn't told Genevieve to come back in with you who knows what could have happened?"
Seeing a frown begin to form on her sister's face, Sofia quickly pulled Madeline into a hug, "I'm sorry Madeline. I didn't mean to hurt your feelings. It's just that with everything that's happened lately..."
"I know," Madeline interrupted. "Everything is so big and new, and you feel completely out of place. I feel the same way too, Sofia."
Sofia sighed, "Come on, let's go find Mom, and talk to her about how we feel."
Walking together through the dark castle Sofia, and Madeline eventually found the room their mother was in. Or more to the point, their mother opened her door to find them.
"Oh, mom", they said together, embracing her. She led them inside and sat on the Couch.
"What's the matter, sweethearts?" Miranda asked, as Sofia sat on her left side and Madeline on the right.
"We don't want a Royal Ball", Sofia declared.
"Oh, girls, I've never known either of you to turn down a party", Miranda said, "Especially one thrown just for the two of you".
"But we don't know anything about being a princess", Madeline said as they both took off their crowns. "And we don't know how to dance. I don't know what I'm even supposed to do since I can't see what I'm doing. What if I stomp all over his toes, what if I end up crashing into everyone in the room, what if one of us trips and everyone laughs at us like that night at the school dance?"
"You'll both do fine", Miranda assured them, calming her daughter from her fretting, "And besides, no one ever laughs at a princess."
"Says who?" Sofia challenged. It wasn't that she was trying to be rude, she was just as stressed about this as Madeline was.
"Come here, you two", Miranda said as she embraced her daughters, "Just try to do the best that you both can do." She put the crowns back on their heads. "And if it's not good enough for all of those stuffy dukes and duchesses, then that's their problem. Mmm-hmm?"
Miranda hugged her two girls closer to her.
"Sofia, Madeline", Roland stepped forward from somewhere, "I have something for the both of you. Consider it a welcome gift". Roland produced two amulets; one blue, and one purple. Sofia visibly gasped.
"They're beautiful", she whispered.
These are two very special amulets", Roland told them, as he put the purple one around Sofia's neck, and the blue one around Madeline's. "You both must promise never to take them off. That way you will never lose them".
"We promise", Sofia and Madeline said in unison.
Madeline brought her hand up and felt her new neck ware. It felt large and smooth. She would have to remember to ask Sofia later on to describe to her what it looked like.
"One last thing, girls." Roland said. "I spoke with Amber, and she says that she is sorry for the way that she treated the two of you."
"Thanks, dad." Sofia said. "But I think that Madeline and I would feel better if we heard it from Amber herself."
Roland nodded his head. "Of course. I'll speak to Amber about it in the morning."
"And now, you two best run off to bed", Roland smiled. "You both have princess school in the morning".
"Princess School?" Madeline asked. This should be both interesting, and terrifying at the same time.