Disclaimer: I do not own Sofia The First.

A/N: Here's chapter 14. Also you all may have noticed the very lovely picture on this story now. MarionetteJ2X drew that for me. Her artwork is so wonderful, and it makes me so happy she drew something for this fic 😍😀.

The events of this chapter coincide with events in chapter six. Please enjoy.

—

Upon a lush green hilltop, right underneath a blossoming apple tree, sat a young girl singing sweetly. Her long blonde hair flowing in the wind in rhythm with the wildflowers that adorned the area.

"You're voice is so pretty, Dorry." a boy, just a little younger than her complimented. He had blond hair as well, though the shade of his was just a bit darker than his companion.

The girl ceased her cadance to regard him with a bright smile. Emerald eyes shining. "Thank you! You sing very well too, Micah. Probably better than me if you practice more."

The boy blushed, averting his own gray eyes. "R..really?"

"mm hmm!" she nodded.

A shy smile found it's way on Micah's face, "Well, I think I'll need to practice a lot before I get anywhere near as good as you..." he thought aloud. Watching as apple blossoms floated down in another gentle breeze. A few of them landing in his friends hair. He gently picked them out, before sweeping a bit of the tresses behind her left ear and placing a flower there.

She blushed at his actions before leaning over to place a kiss on his cheek. The boy sputtered a bit, but ceased when she gave his hand a reassuring squeeze. He smiled, intertwining his fingers with hers as they continued to watch the setting sun together. Content in the belief that these days would last...

—

"Sofia?"

The princess blinked rapidly. Coming out of her vision to see Amos standing there waiting for her to take the music sheets from him. A look of what was possibly concern in his eyes.

"Huh? Oh! Yes, Thank you" she said.

Amos cast another glance towards her amulet as she took the papers from him. Which disturbed her a little, but she opted to ignore it again. After securing a hurdy gurdy from the music room, she left his prescence to study the parts she had agreed to teach Mina.

—

The days passed as Sofia adhered to her agreement of teaching Mina the basics, which Amos seemed to have no patience for. Calista joining them as promised. Physically, they focused mainly on the laps Amos had her run. in order to build up her endurance. Of course, Sofia was able to introduce a few twists in to make it more fun and under the new circumstances, Mina actually seemed to be enjoying herself. And although still rather recluse, the Baeldthorian Princess was becoming gradually friendlier towards Sofia.

However when the days would come to their end. Sofia often find herself laying awake within her guest room. Her mind switching constantly between several competing thoughts.

On one such night, she sat up and stared down at her amulet. Grimacing in confusion as she recalled the two different visions it had showed her. And although grateful that the latter had been significantly more pleasant than the first. She was still confused as to their meaning and purpose.

Of course, Sofia wasn't so naive as to not consider that the visions and Princess Mina may be connected. After all, her previous experience helping other princesses had shown that often the purpose of her visit wasn't always straightforward. Such as the time she had been sent to Ivy thinking she was just there to help round up the woman's butterflies. Only to discover that the jewel had had a much bigger plan in mind. But she just could'nt figure out what either of the visions had to do with Mina.

In addition to those concerns, there was also the issue with Cedric. True, before she had been spirited away Sofia had had every intention of confessing to him. But when her amulet called her, the princess knew she should shift her focus solely to her duty instead, until whatever she had been summoned for was accomplished. This was complicated though when both Cedric and Calista had accidentally been brought with her.

And then they met Baby's Breath...

The princess blushed, recalling the whole incident and how she had agreed so readily to the fairy's suggestion of a temporary marriage between her and Cedric.

She knew it was rash, and maybe even a little manipulative her. There were probably other more ethical ways she could have contacted Mina after missing her at the hill. But when Baby's Breath had made the offer she couldn't help but think that perhaps this was a heaven sent. And that this oppurtunity would allow her to more easily express to her sorcerer how she truly felt about him.

Unfortunately that didn't seem to be the case. As evidenced by Cedric's reminding her of Hugo their first night at the castle. A reminder that had set Sofia back a bit to her previous apprehension.

More importantly, even though she wanted to tell him how she felt. Logically, she knew the only thing she should be focusing on now was helping Mina. As that was the entire purpose of her visit in the first place. Also, so that the two sorcerers, who probably shouldn't have come in the first place, could return home quickly. No doubt Cordelia would be worrying about her daughter, even if they had figured that Calista and her Uncle had merely accompanied Sofia on an adventure. Especially since they were taking so long in getting back.

Plus, there was also the issue with the Kingdom of Baeldthoria itself. The fact that it didn't allow the use of magic save for a select few just wouldn't stop eating at her. But not for the reasons you would think. She was fairly certain it wasnt the same situation as Avalor during Shuriki's tyrannical rule. But it still felt strange to her, and she just couldn't place why...

With all this, it seemed as though Sofia's mind was in constant turmoil. Were her efforts to aid Mina in her preparation for the cultural concert actually helping? Probably not. As the amulet had yet to send them home. Was there something else in relation to all this hiding beneath the surface? Something much bigger? What about those visions? And why did this kingdom consider the use of magic a taboo? What about Cedric? Should she take the opportunity of this odd situation to tell him of her love? How overt or subtle should she be? Or was now not the right time and place after all? Should they just try to get home as soon as so she could tell him then instead? But how were they supposed to do that? Neither Mina, or the amulet, seemed to be clear in that regard...

This constant switch, back and forth, between her heart and duty was nearly maddening. Made even worse by the fact that there didn't seem to be a simple solution in either direction. At least not any that she could see...

She sighed heavily, throwing herself upon the bed and covering her eyes with one arm. For now at least, perhaps the best thing to do would be to simply concentrate on what she did know. Which was helping Mina prepare for the concert. Then hopefully the greater purpose of her visit (if there even was one), would reveal itself in time.

—-

One day, while roaming the halls after singing practice, Sofia was surprised by a tightening around her wrist.

"Oh!" she gasped. Clasping a hand over her enchantlet to keep it from opening, and hurrying to her guest room.

Once safely secured inside, the door locked and curtains drawn, Sofia flicked her wrist creating the magical lasso which now bore the image of her former trainer.

"Hey Sofia!" the crystal fairy greeted. Smiling brightly.

"Hi Chrysta." Sofia ginned back, though she kept her enthusiasm subdued in comparison to her colleague.

"So Orion asked me to help out on the Isle of Rhompkins. Seems the hoodwinks had a bit of a scare after Bash accidentally knocked over their tree while trying to pick some flowers for a tea party."

Sofia chuckled lightly, not surprised to hear of such an incident from one of her "gentle giant" friends. Though she was a little concerned for the Hoodwinks home.

"It's nothing we can't fix" Chrysta assured her. "But I was wondering if you'd like to help me out with it."

The ever realm protector smiled guiltily. Remembering how often she had asked if there was anything she could help with in the magical realm, while trying to distract herself from Cedric

"Well, actually..." she held up her amulet, "My amulet sent me to help with something else."

"Story Keeper mission?"

"Princess problem."

"Ah, I see." Chrysta answered folding her arms. "Well, I think I'll be able to handle the hoodwink situation on my own then. And I'll leave you to helping your princess."

"Wait!" Sofia called preventing the other woman from cutting off their connection. "Um...Do you know anything about a place called Baeldthoria?"

"Baeldthoria?" Chrysta blinked "No. Why? Is that where the amulet brought you?"

"Yeah..." the princess admitted. "It's just weird. The thing is...we're not exactly supposed to use magic here. It's kind of frowned upon over here apparently."

"What!?"

"I know..." she sighed. "I asked because I was just wondering if you had any idea as to why that is?"

"Sorry, Sofia." Chrysta said. "I mean, I know the Mystic Isles like the back of my hand." she explained, holding out said limb to illustrate her point. "But I don't know too much about the different kingdoms in the ever realm."

"I understand..." Sofia chewed her lips a bit as she thought. "Actually. Do you think you could find me here?"

"What's a which way bow for?"

She smirked at that, "Right. When you're done helping the hoodwinks. Do you think you could meet me at 'Baby's Breath's house'. Just make sure to be discreet."

"Sure."

—

After securing a carriage from Clemens before he left to fullfill some kingly duty. Sofia made the journey to Baby's Breath's home. This time around, she really noticed just how far away it was from not only the castle, but the rest of the village as well. Hidden rather deep inside the forest.

She sighed, feeling a little bad for asking Chrysta to accompany her. After all, this wasn't exactly the other woman's jurisdiction. Still, Sofia thought that having her former trainer by her side might help her mind stay focused on the task at hand.

At last the vehicle came to a stop. Stepping out Sofia was pleased to see her friend already there waiting for her.

"Hey Sofia." Chrysta called. Her fairy wings hidden under a red cape.

As she had grown over the years, Sofia had actually surpassed the crystal fairy in terms of height. And although her former trainer often liked to take advantage of her wings in order to flutter up to to Sofia's head level. Here, where she was earth bound, it was far easier to see just how much shorter Chrysta was in comparison to the Princess Protector now. Yet another testament of Sofia had already changed into an adult

If only Cedric would see that...

She shook that thought off and approached her friend. Who was now gazing up in curiosity at the building.

"Interesting place." Chrysta remarked, reaching a hand out to touch the outer walls. "Looks like someone used magic to build it. Kind of strange considering you just told me magic wasn't exactly allowed here."

"Well, there are a couple of exceptions to that rule..." Sofia explained.

Chrysta raised an eyebrow. "Uh huh... So what did you want us to come here for."

"To see if I can get some answers." She said opening the door and hearing the tell tale jingle of the bell overhead as they let themselves in.

"Hello my dears!" a voice sang out, causing Chrysta to flinch in surprise as another fairy practically flew in front of their faces. Smiling brightly. Sofia's reaction however was a bit more toned down. Having already experienced, such a greeting.

"Ah Sofia! It's so good to see you again!" the pink-haired fairy exclaimed. "Have you been enjoying your stay with King Clemens and his family?"

"It's been...interesting." Sofia answered as honestly as possible.

"And who's this?" Baby's Breath asked, noticing Chrysta

"Name's Chrysta." the bigger fairy introduced herself. Hands on her hips as she smiled proudly " A Protector of The Mystic Isles"

"The Mystic Isles?..." Baby's Breath frowned, flying behind her, and lifting the Protector's red cape slightly.

"Excuse me!" Chrysta exclaimed, batting her hand away But the other fairy had already seen her wings.

"A fairy!" she gasped, instantly turning stern. "Oh no. You go back where you came from right now and remind them that Baeldthoria only accepts ever realm fairies for this position!" she commanded, wagging her finger. "Besides, I'm not due for a replacement for at least another two decades!"

"What!?" Chrysta gaped, before recomposing herself. "Look. I'm not here for your job! Like I said, I'm already a Protector."

"Oh?" the other fairy lightened. "Well you must be here for my help then!" taking Chrysta's hands in her own. Her usual cheery demeanor returning. "Don't worry my dear! The Baeldthorian Matchmaker is here to help! Though I'm bit surprised someone from the Mystic Isles would come such a long way for my assistance. Has securing a husband really been so difficult for you?"

"What!" Chrysta gasped. She hadn't even considered getting married. Moreover, she was a bit affronted by the way the other woman seem to be insinuating that it may be because of something wrong with her. "That's not!..."

"We were just here to ask you some questions?" Sofia interjected quickly, trying to prevent a fight from breaking out. Noticing that her former trainer was becoming a bit temperamental with the other, obliviously pushy, fairy.

"Really now?" Baby's Breath folded her arms, "About what?"

"Well," Sofia began "I was just kind of wondering why you and the royal songster are the only ones allowed to use magic here."

"Hmm, well, in Amos case he's actually received formal permission from the King. As for myself, while I was in training to become the next marriage officiator, I do remember my teacher mentioning that long ago Baeldthoria decided to only have fairies perform their magical binding ceremonys. Something about them being naturally magical, and therefore more trustworthy."

"It's okay if fairy's to use magic then?" Sofia asked.

"Only if they're registered as the marriage officiator." Baby's Breath clarified. "Granted, I'm only allowed to use magic for the binding. In fact this building as well as my wand have been enchanted by my predecessors so that no magic, except that related to binding, can be used by me or anyone else."

Sofia blinked. Guess that explained why Calista and Cedric's reparation spells wouldn't work the first time they came here.

"Though, I'm not exactly welcome any where else in the kingdom." she continued. "No. My place is right here!" spreading her arms wide, and gesturing around the room. "Unless summoned by the king. That was what I agreed to when I became the marriage officiator."

"So..." the princess cast her eyes to the ground, thinking. "Did they use Sorcerers for binding ceremonys before?"

"You know. I'm not sure. To be honest I never really paid too much attention to the history portion of Baeldthoria during my studies." she explained with a chuckle.

"And yet you ended up getting the job?" Chrysta challenged.

"Hey!" Baby's Breath flew above her, "It's because I was the best in my class at actually doing that job! I mean, who would you rather have? Someone who can only tell you what needs to be done on paper? Or someone who can actually do it?"

Chrysta shrugged, she actually had to agree with her there. The crystal fairy definitely preferred practical skills over book smarts. True, Protectors needed to be clever in order to get out of tight situations and fix difficult problem. But that was a different kind of intelligence.

"My matchmaking skills are the finest in the land!" the marriage officiator boasted. "I'm the one who suggested King Clemens and Queen Agnes marry, and I'm sure you've seen the positive results of that binding. As has the rest of the Kingdom. Every other couple I've arranged have also reported immense satisfaction. My marriages are the happiest in the kingdom! Speaking of which..." she ceased her self advertising to look towards Sofia, "How are things going with you and Cedric, darling? Have you been thinking about making your situation permanent?"

Sofia blushed brightly at her words. "Um...they've been going well." Quickly snapping herself out of it though. She needed to stay focused on the task at hand! "So, you don't know why everyone else isn't supposed to use magic then."

"Not really." Baby's Breath admitted. "Save that it apparently makes the citizens very angry... You could try asking King Clemens if you wanted. Or even..." she paused suddenly, frowning. "Oh! but that man is always so difficult!"

Sofia blinked, grimacing in confusion as the bell chimed again. A couple walking in.

"I'll be right with you my darlings!" Baby's Breath cheered. Before turning her attention back to the two Protectors. "Well, it seems I have some business to attend to. So if that's all you need from me, I'll see you another time then."

Sofia nodded, before her and Chrysta stepped past the waiting couple and back outside.

"Well, that was interesting." Chrysta remarked once the door had shut behind them, "What was that she said about you and Cedric?"

"It's nothing!" Sofia shook her head, cheeks heating gently.

Her former trainer raised an eyebrow. But figured she just didn't want to talk about it.

"So you think this whole magic issue is why your amulet sent you here?"

"Maybe..." Sofia sighed, as she held the jewel. Remembering the two scenes it had showed her. Though at a complete loss as to what either of them had to do with magic or Mina.

"If you want, I could check with Orion and Vega and see if they know anything about this place." Chrysta offered. "Since your other fairy wasn't very helpful." she scoffed.

Sofia smiled a bit wryly at that quip, "Maybe..." she said softly, still feeling a bit confused.

"Hey, you've got this Sofia! You're the Protector of The Ever Realm after all." Chrysta encouraged, "I trust your judgement here. But don't hesitate to give us a call if you ever need help. In the meantime, I'll be sure to let the others know not to send you any unexpected calls while you're still here."

"Thanks Chrysta" Sofia said, her friend's confidence putting her a bit more at ease. She looked towards the carriage and awaiting driver that had brought her here. Remembering that she still had to help Mina with dance practice. "I better head back."

The duo bid each other goodbye before both leaving to fullfill their respective duties.

—-

Once back at the castle Sofia redirected her focus back to teaching Mina. Changing into her exercise clothes, and meeting the other princess and Calista outside.

Even so, her thoughts kept turning back to what she had heard from Baby's Breath. Specifically in regards to the women's supposed talent as a matchmaker, and what she had said about her and Cedric.

Could it really be true? Would Cedric and her really be a good match? Or was it just wishful thinking on her part? Her already established love for the sorcerer clouding her perception.

But, a part of her continued to hope despite all that, if Baby's Breath was actually right?

At last practice was over for Sofia. Today Calista would be the one to accompany Mina as she refined her skills with Amos. So the Enchancian princess was free to leave to clean up and change into different clothes.

Before she could make it back to her room though, she saw Cedric standing outside. Her heart skipped a beat at the sight of her beloved. Mind reeling with her previous thoughts.

Maybe it wouldn't hurt to be a little friendlier with him. After all, they were supposed to be playing the part of a married couple. And she did intend to confess to him at some point. Though most likely after they got back home. Still, perhaps in the meantime she could at least try to sow the seeds a little more...

Taking a deep breath, the princess started towards her new 'husband'.

—-

A/N: So I know many of you are very eager to get back to where we left off with Cedric in chapter 10. However, we do still have a few more chapters from Sofia's perspective before we get back to that point. Remember, the amulet sent her here for a reason, and we'll be getting more clues as to what that is as we see events from her eyes. Thank you for reading.