All Hail Calla

by Tuxedo Mark

The Gummi Bears have left Gummi Glen for distant Ursalia. Calla will not see them as often, but life does not stop for a princess, not even when she's lonely. This is a post-series, human-centric story that focuses on Calla as she continues to grow toward adulthood.

11. Fall, Part I

All Hail Calla

11

Fall, Part I

Written By Mark Moore

Author's note: I'm so sorry for the lengthy delay. I have to divide my time between Real Life, my original fiction, my other fanfics, and other hobbies. Also, this chapter got so long, and I was nowhere near done, that I've decided to split it in two.

If you're a fan of Barbie, and the TV series Barbie Dreamhouse Adventures in particular, check out my fanfic, Bouncing to the Beat. Also, if you wanna be friends on Nintendo Switch, my friend code is SW-4964-6053-0128.

Writing times for this story: Tuesday, December 31, 2019, 10:56 PM - 11:42 PM; Thursday, January 23, 2020, 10:54 PM - 11:30 PM; Sunday, January 26, 2020, 8:39 PM - 10:34 PM; Sunday, March 1, 2020, 7:54 PM - 9:15 PM; Monday, March 2, 2020, 8:00 PM - 8:42 PM; Sunday, April 5, 2020, 9:14 PM - 10:33 PM, 11:18 PM - 11:31 PM; Monday, April 20, 2020, 9:11 PM - 10:35 PM; Thursday, April 23, 2020, 9:47 PM - 11:04 PM; Wednesday, April 29, 2020, 9:42 PM - 10:57 PM; Saturday, May 2, 2020, 9:38 PM - 10:51 PM; Monday, May 11, 2020, 9:35 PM - 10:38 PM; Friday, June 26, 2020, 8:39 PM - 9:28 PM; Wednesday, July 8, 2020, 9:16 PM - 10:19 PM; Tuesday, July 14, 2020, 7:08 PM - 7:49 PM, 10:54 PM - 11:40 PM; Wednesday, July 22, 2020, 8:19 PM - 8:45 PM; Wednesday, August 19, 2020, 7:00 PM - 7:05 PM, 7:23 PM - 8:59 PM; Monday, September 7, 2020, 7:52 PM - 9:09 PM; Tuesday, September 8, 2020, 9:04 PM - 10:06 PM; Tuesday, September 15, 2020, 7:07 PM - 8:32 PM; Wednesday, September 16, 2020, 9:41 PM - 10:05 PM; Friday, September 18, 2020, 5:51 PM - 6:29 PM, 8:12 PM - 10:27 PM; Saturday, September 19, 2020, 11:30 PM - 11:43 PM; Tuesday, September 22, 2020, 10:11 PM - 11:21 PM

Feedback is appreciated. Enjoy the story.

The following story is copyright © 2020 by Mark Moore.

CALLA

Calla watched as Jordan and Rachel put things away in the supply room at the end of the workday. It was taking them longer than she liked.

Calla pointed to a shelf. "No, Rachel, the paint goes over there."

"Oh. Sorry." Rachel moved the paint can.

"Where does this go?" Jordan asked Calla, holding up a wrench.

Calla pointed to a box. "In there."

"Thanks."

Calla waited patiently as the girls finished up, and then the three of them left the room. Calla closed and locked the door.

Calla took a pouch out of her pocket and opened it. She took out the remaining coins, which was her daily wage. "All right, here's today's pay."

Rachel and Jordan grinned.

"Let's see. Half of it's mine." Calla put some of the coins in her pocket. "Half of what's left goes to your victims' family." Calla put some of the coins back in the pouch. "Oh, there's the matter of the paint that you spilled, Rachel." Calla put three coppers in her pocket. "Jordan, you cost us an hour's work due to the chicken incident." Calla put a silver coin in her pocket. She dropped the remaining six copper coins in Rachel and Jordan's waiting hands. "That should be about right."

Jordan and Rachel forced smiles. "Thank you."

"All right, I gotta get to the afternoon meeting. Wait in the courtyard, and then we'll head to the tavern for dinner."

Jordan and Rachel nodded, and Calla turned and headed into the castle.

CALLA

After a routine and dull afternoon meeting, Calla was looking forward to unwinding at the tavern. She met up with Jordan and Rachel in the courtyard, and they headed for the tavern. The sun was setting, and the various merchants in the courtyard were closing their stalls for the night.

They arrived at the tavern. Rachel opened the door for Calla.

Calla smiled. "Thank you." She entered the tavern.

Jordan followed her. Rachel came in last and closed the door behind her. The three of them headed for their usual table and sat down.

A serving wench walked over to them. "What can I get you?"

"What's the dinner of the day?" Calla asked her.

"Grilled beef and gravy."

Calla smiled. "Sounds good. I'll have one - and a pint of warm ale."

The wench wrote it down and then looked at Jordan and Rachel. "Same for you?"

"Um..." Rachel dug in her pocket and took out a copper coin. "How much will this get me?"

"A cup of soup. Very thin soup. Mostly water, really."

Rachel nodded. "I'll have one."

Jordan nodded. "Yeah, me, too."

The wench wrote it down. "Coming right up." She turned and walked away.

Calla was confused. "Shouldn't you have three coppers each?"

Rachel felt a bit embarrassed. "We bought makeup."

"Makeup?" Calla asked in disbelief.

"Uh-huh." Rachel took a small wooden box out of her pocket. "From one of the stalls in the courtyard, just before it closed."

Calla took the box from Rachel and opened it. Inside were a container of paint for the lips and eyelids and a small stick for application.

"Why'd you buy this?" Calla asked her.

Rachel smiled. "To get dressed up for the Fall Festival."

Jordan smiled. "So guys will notice us."

Calla closed the box and offered it back to Rachel. "You wasted your money."

Rachel took the box and put it back in her pocket. "How so?"

"There's no shortage of makeup in the castle, due to expectations that I'll wear it, but I barely wear any. I would have just given you some, if you'd asked."

Rachel felt embarrassed. "Oh."

Calla sighed. "You need to learn to save your money. You could have had better soup tonight, or the money could have gone towards a wardrobe for your room...or more clothes."

Rachel and Jordan nodded.

"As for guys, what makes you think any of them will be interested in you?" Calla asked them.

"Why wouldn't they be?" Jordan asked in confusion. "We're hot."

Calla shrugged. "You're very attractive. However, considering what you've done, I doubt anyone will be interested in you." Calla paused in thought for a moment. "Unless they're into that sort of thing. But genuinely liking you for who you are? I doubt it."

Jordan and Rachel sat in silence, disappointed.

The wench returned with a tray. She set a plate with beef, a fork, a knife, and a glass of ale in front of Calla and two cups of very meager soup in front of Jordan and Rachel.

Calla smiled. "Thank you."

"Enjoy." The wench turned and walked away.

Calla took a gulp of ale and then picked up her fork and knife, cut a piece of beef, stuck it in her mouth, chewed, and savored the taste. "This really is delicious."

Rachel and Jordan despondently stared into their cups.

CALLA

After dinner, Calla, Jordan, and Rachel stopped by the castle's kitchen. Calla watched as Jordan and Rachel, per their agreement with the chef, scooped up a couple pitchers' worth of leftover water from the cauldron.

They went down to the castle's basement. Calla unlocked the door to Rachel and Jordan's bedroom and let them walk inside. She stood in the doorway and watched as they filled their basin with water, stripped off most of their clothes (which they casually tossed on the floor), and washed themselves. Then they offered the empty pitchers to Calla.

Calla shook her head. "Return them yourselves."

Jordan stared at Calla, shocked. "Seriously?"

Calla pointed into the hallway. Rachel and Jordan exited the room, and Calla followed them as they walked through the castle in their underwear, being noticed by a few guys. They returned the pitchers to the kitchen and then returned to the basement, where they entered their bedroom.

Rachel stared at Calla in annoyance. "That was vile."

Calla smiled sweetly at them. "Good night. I'll come and let you out after the morning meeting tomorrow." She closed and locked the door and then went to her own bedroom.

CALLA

The next morning, Calla walked into the room with the round table and sat down. Other knights were either already seated or just coming in.

Calla looked at her father. "Good morning, Father."

King Gregor looked at his daughter. "Good morning, Calla. How are things?"

Calla shrugged. "Okay, I guess."

"You don't sound so certain."

"It's the girls. They're...work."

Gregor smiled. "Welcome to motherhood."

Calla didn't find that funny. She shook her head. "Never mind, I can handle them."

"I wasn't offering to help you."

"Of course not. Sorry, poor choice of words."

The last of the knights settled into their chairs.

"Order."

At the King's command, all conversation ceased.

"I wish to begin this meeting with an important announcement. I am reassigning Dame Calla."

Various murmurings began among the knights.

Calla was shocked. "Father, what do you mean?! Am I not doing a good job on the engineering team?!"

"On the contrary, you have more than proven your capability. However, Sir Percival has recovered enough that he will be resuming his duties today. He's just being checked over by the royal physician as we speak and is expected to be cleared for light duty."

"That's good news, Father, but why am I being reassigned?" Calla asked. "I like engineering."

"Well, if you feel that strongly about it. I mean I was going to put you in charge of planning the Fall Festival, but you can-"

"Planning the Fall Festival?!" Calla asked, grinning in excitement. "Of course, I'd be delighted, Father, um, Your Majesty."

Gregor smiled. "I figured you would." He pushed a sheet of paper towards her. "Here's a list of suggestions."

CALLA

Calla knocked on the door to Jordan and Rachel's bedroom. "Girls, are you awake?!"

"Yeah!" Rachel called.

Calla unlocked and opened the door. "Okay, so..." She quickly averted her gaze. "Hey! You didn't tell me that you weren't dressed!"

"Sorry. Does that bother you?" Rachel asked her.

Calla thought about it. "Not necessarily, but I'd like a little warning."

She waited a while.

"All done."

At Rachel's statement, Calla turned and faced them.

Jordan smiled. "So...we hitting the tavern first for some breakfast?"

"Why? You suddenly come into some money?" Calla asked her.

Jordan frowned. "No." She paused. "Never mind."

"So what are we fixing today?" Rachel asked Calla.

"Nothing. I've been reassigned, so your jobs are going to change, too."

Rachel and Jordan were surprised.

"What are we doing?" Rachel asked Calla.

Calla smiled. "I've been put in charge of planning the Fall Festival."

"Woo-hoo!" Jordan cheered. "I'm an excellent party planner."

"Which is irrelevant. You'll be doing the grunt work."

Jordan frowned. "Whyyyyyyyy?"

Calla frowned. "Because you're not here to have fun!"

Jordan pouted. Rachel looked disappointed.

Calla sighed. "Look, I will allow you to enjoy yourselves during the festival, but, until then, you will toil without complaint. If you have any suggestions, I'm willing to entertain them, but you better exercise your arms more than your mouths. Now, come on."

"Where are we going?" Rachel asked her.

"Into the nearest town to buy food. Gonna make a stop along the way."

CALLA

Calla borrowed a horse from the stable, and Rachel and Jordan rode it, Rachel in front. Riding Morgana, Calla led the way into the forest, and Rachel and Jordan followed her.

"Ow! Your fingernails are digging into my stomach!" Rachel complained.

"Well, I gotta hold on! You're riding bumpy!" Jordan countered.

"Well, then jump off!" Rachel told her.

"Learn to ride good!" Jordan countered.

Calla turned her head and looked at them angrily. "Will you two stop arguing?!"

Jordan and Rachel looked at her and pointed at each other. "But it's her fault!"

"I don't care! Shut up!" Calla yelled.

Rachel and Jordan fell silent. Calla looked ahead and rode into the glen.

Once they arrived at Viviane's house, they dismounted their horses and tethered them to a post that Viviane must have recently installed. Calla took out some chopped carrots and fed the horses. Then the three girls walked over to the door. Calla knocked on it.

Soon, the door opened. Viviane was standing inside, wearing her robe.

Viviane smiled. "Calla, hi."

Calla smiled. "Hi. Girls, this is my teacher, Viviane. Viviane, these are Rachel and Jordan, my..." Calla suddenly frowned. "My slaves."

Viviane stared in surprise. "Did I hear you right?"

Calla nodded. "It's a long story."

Viviane stepped aside. "Come inside. I've made some tea."

Calla, Rachel, and Jordan walked into Viviane's house.

CALLA

The four of them sat at the table, drinking tea, and Calla told Viviane of everything that had happened since their last meeting. Viviane listened attentively, trying to not judge Calla or her slaves.

"And that brings us to the present."

Viviane set down her cup. "I see."

"So what do you think?" Rachel asked her.

Viviane stared at Rachel in silence for a while, thinking. "We, meaning the people on my spiritual path, typically believe we are reincarnated after death, coming back to this world again and again. This gives us multiple ways to experience life, and it also gives us multiple opportunities to make up for our shortcomings and personal failings. The two of you would have worked out your debts in subsequent lifetimes, but Calla saved your lives, meaning you have the opportunity to start doing that here and now."

Rachel slowly nodded. "We're doing that now."

Viviane nodded. "And that's good, but maybe you could do something from the heart? Give of yourself freely?"

Rachel thought about it for a moment and was stumped. "Any suggestions?"

Viviane shrugged. "Charity work? Feeding and clothing the homeless and poor?"

Rachel looked to Calla.

Calla nodded. "You could do that." She looked at Jordan. "What about you, Jordan?"

Jordan shrugged. "Okay, I guess."

Calla smiled. "We can stop by a few churches and the abbey. They'd probably be happy to have a couple extra volunteers."

Rachel was surprised. "Even us?"

Calla frowned. "If they truly practice what they preach, especially you. I can't speak for them, though."

Viviane thought for a moment. "If you don't have any luck with them, perhaps we could start our own charity."

Calla nodded. "That's something to consider. Anyway, shall we begin my lessons?"

"Sure. Oh, would you like something to eat first?" Viviane offered.

Jordan smiled and gasped in delight. "Would we?!"

Calla had mixed feelings about the girls accepting freebies, but she hadn't prohibited it, so she decided she didn't have the moral right to do so now.

Viviane smiled. "Would you like to try something new that I made?"

Jordan and Rachel nodded.

Viviane stood up and walked over to a shelf. She brought over four plates, two at a time, and set them on the table. Each plate contained a small piece of bread covered with various meats, herbs, and cheese. The entire thing had been baked.

Viviane sat down and smiled. "These are my own creation. I'm trying to come up with a name for it."

Calla picked up her snack, sniffed it, and took a bite. She found it delicious. She chewed. "It's a piece o' deliciousness is what it is!" She swallowed.

"A piece o' de..." Viviane trailed off and thought about it. "A piece-o. A piece-a. A...pizza?"

Calla shrugged. "It's as good a name as any."

Rachel and Jordan picked up their respective pizzas and took a bite. They smiled.

Calla smiled. "Hey, you should make these for the Fall Festival. You can set up a booth in the castle's courtyard."

Viviane smiled. "Good idea. I will. Thanks. Actually, if you need a volunteer to help out, I'm available."

Calla briefly eyed Jordan and Rachel, and then she looked back at Viviane. "That's very kind, but I've got enough help for the menial labor. Besides, I don't want to take you away from..." Calla paused and thought for a moment. "What do you do, exactly? For a living, I mean."

Viviane shrugged. "Sell excess fruits and vegetables that I grow, clothes that I make, my various culinary creations, and some decorative crafts. I also look for work in the nearest town and hire myself out to do odd jobs."

"Oh."

Viviane smiled. "Riveting, I know, but I haven't learned a trade, so I do what I can do to get by."

Calla took a bite of her pizza, chewed, and swallowed. "If this pizza is any indication, you should be financially set for life."

Viviane smiled in amusement.

"Anyway, if you want to help, show up at the castle tomorrow morning. I could use some help on the planning side of things. We'll get to work after the morning meeting."

"Sure. Okay, let's try fire manipulation again." Viviane started to stand up. "I'll get a cup of water."

Calla raised a hand. "No need. Jordan, get a cup of water."

Jordan finished her pizza, stood up, and walked aimlessly around the room. "Um..."

Viviane pointed. "Cup's on that shelf. Cauldron's over there."

"Oh, thanks." Jordan walked over and got a cup.

Viviane looked at Rachel. "Get me a candle, please."

Rachel finished her pizza and stood up. "Oh, where are your fire steel and tinderbox?"

"Broken. I need to get new ones. Just bring me a candle and a holder."

"O...kaaay." Rachel walked over and got a candle and a glass holder off a shelf. She returned and set them on the table.

Viviane picked up the candle and wedged it into the holder. She held onto the holder, closed her eyes, and concentrated. The candle lit.

Rachel was surprised. "Whoa."

Calla smiled. Then she looked over. "Jordan, where's the water?"

"Coming!" Jordan hurriedly walked over to the table, carrying a wooden cup full of water.

Suddenly, Archie ran out from under Viviane's bed and crossed her path. Jordan came to a quick stop and spilled water all over the floor.

Jordan brought the cup, containing what remained of the water, and set it on the table. "Sorry about that."

Calla rolled her eyes and blew her hair out of her face in exasperation. "Yeah, whatever, go play with the cat."

Jordan and Rachel walked over to Archie and sat down on the floor. He took an immediate liking to them and started nuzzling against them and purring. They petted him.

Calla and Viviane stared in wonder. "Huh."

CALLA

Calla, Jordan, and Rachel arrived in the nearest town and went to the local businesses, spreading word of the Fall Festival and purchasing various items needed for the castle's festivities, which Calla made Jordan and Rachel carry.

They eventually stopped at the church. Calla explained Rachel and Jordan's situation to the priest, but he adamantly refused to take them on.

It was the same in the next town. And the town after that. And a small village. And the abbey.

Rachel visibly looked like she was losing all hope. Jordan didn't seem to care.

Finally, after returning to Dunwyn Castle, seeing to the horses, and putting their purchases away, they went into St. Mary's.

They walked over to the office of the priest. Calla knocked on the door.

"Come in."

Calla opened the door and walked into the office. The priest was sitting at his desk, writing. Rachel and Jordan walked into the office. Jordan closed the door behind her.

The priest looked up at them. "Yes, Your Highness?"

"These are Rachel and Jordan. They're interested in doing charity work."

He frowned. "Absolutely not."

Calla frowned. "Why not?"

"Because I'm not going to be wasting my time on a couple of damned souls."

"Oh, you know that for a fact, do you? God told you so?" Calla asked him angrily.

"I know about these girls, and I know what you did. All you did was delay their inevitable descent into Hell."

Jordan abruptly turned, opened the door, walked out, and slammed the door shut behind her. Everyone was silent for a moment.

Calla looked at Rachel. "Rachel, make your case."

Rachel briefly looked at Calla and then looked at the priest. "I, um, I confessed what I did. I'm sorry. I want to do something to make up for what I've done."

"What did your confessor give you as penance?" he asked her.

"To accept whatever punishment was given to me."

"And did you?"

"No. Princess Calla saved me."

"So she robbed you of your chance to atone."

"She offered to plead for my life, and I accepted."

"Well, then there's nothing to be done. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to finish this homily." The priest looked down at his parchment and resumed writing.

Calla stared at him. "You're a bunch of hypocrites. You preach love, kindness, and forgiveness, but you're the quickest to damn."

He briefly stopped writing but didn't look up at her.

Calla turned and opened the door. She and Rachel walked out of the office. Rachel closed the door behind her.

Jordan was sitting in the back pew. She looked at them, stood up, and walked over to join them.

Calla frowned at her. "I didn't give you permission to leave."

"Would you have stayed?" Jordan asked her.

"No." Calla paused in thought for a moment. "Actually, I would have knocked his block off."

Jordan shrugged.

Calla shrugged right back at her. "Okay, Avalon it is."

Rachel shrugged. "Fine with me. I don't even like church."

The three of them left the building.

"Okay, I gotta get to the afternoon meeting. Come and wait outside the room, and then we'll head to the tavern for dinner together."

CALLA

Calla sat through a mundane meeting and briefly gave an account of her achievements in setting up the Fall Festival.

"Very good. I have a happy announcement to make. I have received a reply from King Jean-Claude. Princess Marie will be attending the Fall Festival here in Dunwyn."

Calla gasped and grinned in delight.

"She will be arriving tomorrow afternoon. Do I have a volunteer to meet her at the dock and officially see to her accommodations?" King Gregor asked.

Calla eagerly raised her hand.

Gregor smiled. "Why am I not surprised? Very well, Dame Calla."

Calla smiled in delight and was giddy with excitement.

"Is there any further business that needs to be addressed?" Gregor asked.

None of the knights said anything.

"Very well. This meeting is adjourned."

The knights stood up, including Calla. She picked up her papers and was about to leave the room.

"Calla, hold on. I wish to speak with you."

Calla looked at him. "Yes, Father?"

Gregor sighed and scratched the back of his head, unsure how to begin. "Is there anything that you want to talk to me about?"

Calla was confused. "Not at the moment. Why?"

Gregor was embarrassed. "Well, it's just...I've been hearing things. Rumors. Whisperings...about you."

"Oh. 'Princess Calla and Her Merry Murderers' and all that?" Calla asked him. "It's to be expected."

"No. Well, yes, but that's not what I'm talking about. They say you stop at the house of a certain woman in the forest..."

Calla was surprised and briefly wondered who was following her and telling other people, but she pushed it to the back of her mind for now. "Oh. Viviane."

"Yes. Viviane." Gregor paused. "Anything you want to tell me about her?"

"She's a friend."

"Just a friend?" Gregor asked her.

Calla was silent for a moment. "No. Not just a friend." She sighed. "I wasn't sure if or when to tell you this, but Viviane is my teacher."

"Teacher?" Gregor asked in surprise.

Calla nodded. "I'm undergoing magic training."

Gregor was shocked.

Calla stared at him. "I'm a priestess of Avalon. It's my birthright."

Gregor was perturbed. "I see."

"Would you deny me that?" Calla asked him.

Gregor sighed and shook his head. "No." He paused for a moment. "Are you any good?"

Calla smiled. "Well, I haven't set any tables on fire recently."

Gregor raised an eyebrow.

"Never mind. You seemed surprised by my answer earlier."

"Well, the rumor is...different. You see, you're not currently being courted, which is unusual for a girl of your age and status..." Gregor trailed off.

Calla gave him an amused smirk. "You got me, Father. I'm sneaking off to Viviane's for hot, sweaty sex."

"Really?"

"No."

Gregor breathed a sigh of relief. "But still...you don't seem to be taking an interest in any...one."

"You mean any man."

Gregor nodded, uncomfortable.

"I'm not typical, Father."

"I'm well aware of that."

Calla nodded. "Do I need to say anything else?"

"Not if you don't want to, I suppose."

Calla suddenly felt bad. "You're not disappointed in me, are you, Father?"

"No." Gregor sighed. "Calla, I'm not going to stop you from following your heart, but you will need to produce an heir someday and continue the family line."

"Surely, there are contingencies for that, Father. I could name my next of kin as my successor."

Gregor reluctantly nodded. "I suppose that's an option."

"Is there anything else?" Calla asked him.

"Yes." Gregor reached over and hugged her. "I love you, Calla."

Calla smiled and hugged him. "I love you, too, Father."

CALLA

The next day, after the morning meeting, Calla let Jordan and Rachel out of their room, and the three of them walked out into the courtyard. Viviane was browsing the items at the various stalls while waiting for them.

Calla smiled. "Hi, Viviane."

Viviane looked at Calla and smiled. "Hi, Calla." She nodded. "Rachel, Jordan."

Rachel smiled. "Hi, Viviane."

Jordan smiled. "Hi, Viviane."

"So what will we be doing today?" Viviane asked Calla.

"Let's discuss that over breakfast at the tavern."

Viviane smiled. "Sounds good."

They started walking towards the tavern.

Viviane gestured at the stalls. "Oh, who do I talk to about reserving a stall for the festival?"

"Ordinarily, there's someone else in charge of allocating the courtyard space to vendors. However, for the festival, I'll be handling it." Calla opened the tavern's door for them.

Viviane, Rachel, and Jordan walked into the tavern, and Calla followed them and closed the door behind her.

"Won't the regular vendors be upset, if they're excluded from selling during the festival?" Viviane asked Calla.

They made their way towards an empty table.

"This happens every year, multiple times per year. They're used to it. If they can sell something, well, festive, they get in. If they can't, they don't."

The four of them sat down at the table.

A serving wench came by. "What can I get you?"

"What have you got cooking right now?" Calla asked her.

"Eggs, sausage, and strips of bacon. Two coppers per plate."

Calla smiled. "Sounds good. I'll have one."

Viviane smiled. "Me, too."

"Me..." Rachel paused and considered. She looked at Jordan. "Maybe we can share a plate?"

Jordan was disappointed but tried to shrug it off. "Sure."

"Anything to drink?" the wench asked.

The four of them thought about it.

"Water's free."

They nodded.

"Okay, I'll be back in a while." The wench turned and walked away.

Calla smiled. "Okay, so I was thinking, today, we could work out a menu for the festival. We'll need to talk with Sir Feirefiz, who's in charge of agriculture, about the state of the harvest. We'll also have to talk with the chef about what he can make with what will be available, which includes the food that we bought in the towns that we visited. All of this will be for the main meal, which will be supplemented by whatever others choose to make and sell. Viviane, you're still going to make pizza, right?"

Viviane nodded. "And cupcakes."

Calla grinned. "And I'll make sure about getting some more of those delightful brownies made. There's also the matter of decorating the courtyard. We'll throw some hay around, set up a stage for performances. However, that might best be done tomorrow. This afternoon, I have to go to the dock. Princess Marie is arriving."

Viviane smiled. "Oh, it will be nice to see her again."

"Yes." Calla paused and sniffed. "I smell foo-ood."

"You have a good nose, Your Highness." The wench set three plates of food, four sets of forks and knives, and four wooden cups filled with water on the table.

Calla and Viviane each got out their respective money pouches. Calla looked at Viviane and shook her head. Viviane smiled and put her pouch away. Calla opened her pouch and got out four copper coins. She put her pouch away and handed the money to the wench. Rachel and Jordan each got out a copper coin and handed them to the wench.

The wench smiled. "Enjoy." She turned and walked away.

Viviane smiled at Calla. "Thank you."

Calla smiled at Viviane. "No problem."

CALLA

Calla, Jordan, and Rachel arrived at the dock. They exited the carriage and walked over to watch Marie's ship dock. Rachel and Jordan stood behind Calla.

Soon, the gangplank was lowered, and Marie came into view. Calla grinned in delight, but then she lost her smile when a man came into view and linked his right arm with Marie's left. He looked somewhat like Marie's father, King Jean-Claude, and almost as old. They descended the gangplank together.

Calla smiled again. "Welcome back to Dunwyn, Marie."

"Calla, I'm so happy to see you again-"

"That's Princess Marie!" the man interrupted. "Where are your manners, girl?!"

Calla was momentarily taken aback, but then she frowned at him. "Where are yours?! Marie, who is this jackass?"

Marie smiled awkwardly. "This jackass is my fiance."

Calla suddenly felt incredibly weak. "Your what?" she asked quietly.

"I am her fiance, you little twit!" the man raged. "Duke Jean-Pierre!"

Calla ignored him and hugged Marie. Marie hugged Calla.

Jean-Pierre stared at them in disapproval. "You are princesses! Act like it!"

Calla looked at him and stuck out her tongue.

Jean-Pierre huffed, offended.

Calla and Marie released each other.

Calla gestured at Rachel and Jordan. "Marie, these are Rachel and Jordan. They are my..." Calla paused and decided she'd explain that later. "They will handle any luggage that you brought. Rachel, Jordan, this is Marie, Princess of Faitgagner."

Marie nodded at them. They bowed to her.

Calla leaned over to them. "You don't bow to a foreigner."

Rachel and Jordan straightened. "Sorry."

"It's all right."

Two pages walked down the gangplank, each carrying a trunk. They set them down on the dock.

Calla gestured at the trunks. "Load the trunks in the carriage."

Rachel and Jordan walked over and tried to pick them up. They grunted and had difficulty.

Calla rolled her eyes. "Both of you pick up one and then get the other."

"Oh, yeah." Jordan lifted one end of her trunk. "Help me, Rach."

Rachel lifted the other end of the trunk. "Wow, this is heavy. What does she have in here, a dining set?"

Calla looked at Marie and smiled, a bit embarrassed. "They're works in progress. So...how was your trip?"

Marie shrugged. "It was fine."

"It was horrible!" Jean-Pierre countered. "There is some kind of evil that is trying to prevent travelers from coming to your kingdom! We barely survived it!"

"Evil?" Calla asked in surprise.

Marie rolled her eyes. "He exaggerates. It was a - how you say? - Fata Morgana. Nothing more."

Calla frowned. "Still, I want to hear more about this. We'll discuss it with Viviane."

CALLA

Calla had volunteered to announce Marie and Jean-Pierre's arrival at the castle. She walked into the throne room first, and the guests waited outside.

Calla cleared her throat and waited for the trumpeter to finish playing. "Presenting Her Royal Highness, Princess Marie of Faitgagner, and Jean-Pierre, Duke of Connerie and Proclaimer of Bullshit."

Gregor frowned. "Calla!"

Calla smiled. "What? Prove me wrong."

Gregor sighed. "I'm sorry, Duke Jean-Pierre. My daughter is usually better behaved."

Jean-Pierre appeared indifferent. "No matter. I wish to see my room."

Gregor stood up. "Dame Calla will take you there. Perhaps, after you've had time to settle in, you would like to join me for some hunting."

Calla frowned.

"I would be delighted."

"Good. Well, I look forward to it."

"Oh, Father, after I show them to their rooms, I wish to go with Marie to visit our friend, Viviane."

"Viviane?" Gregor asked in confusion.

"My teacher. Y'know." Calla raised her left hand and wiggled her fingers.

"Oh, yes, her. You know, I don't believe I've met her."

"Oh, you will. She's helping me with planning the festival, and she'll have a table set up."

"Very well."

"Oh, and Father? We have a lot of catching up to do, so we'll likely stay the night."

Gregor frowned. "What about your slaves?"

Marie was surprised and looked at Calla. "Your what?"

Calla looked at Marie, embarrassed. "I'll explain later." She quickly made a decision and looked at her father. "They'll be coming with us."

Gregor sighed. "Fine, but stay safe."

"We will." Calla bowed to him, and then she indicated for Marie and Jean-Pierre to walk out of the throne room before her.

CALLA

After Calla showed Jean-Pierre to his room, she showed Marie to her usual room. She opened the door to let Marie inside, but what they saw shocked them both. Marie screamed.

Jordan and Rachel had opened Marie's trunk and were wearing her dresses.

Calla stormed into the room in anger. "Jordan! Rachel! Take those off this instant!"

Jordan and Rachel, frightened, quickly obeyed.

"This is an outrage!" Marie stormed over to Jordan and Rachel and made a slicing motion with her right index finger. "I'll have your heads for this!"

Rachel gulped. "We're really sorry."

Jordan nodded. "Yeah, we're sorry."

Calla looked at Marie. "Marie, I am so sorry for this." She looked pointedly at Jordan and Rachel. "It will never happen again."

"Where did you find these idiots?!" Marie asked Calla.

"Waterforge. It's a long story. I'll explain on the way...to Ursalia."

Marie was surprised. "Ursalia?"

Calla nodded. "After we pick up Viviane, I want us to go to Ursalia."

"Why?" Marie asked her.

"What's Ursalia?" Rachel asked Calla.

Calla briefly looked at Rachel but made no reply, instead turning her attention back to Marie. "To discuss a reunion...between humans...and Gummi Bears."

Marie laughed nervously. "Gummi Bears? Why, Calla, whatever do you mean? Gummi Bears aren't real. Have you been eating those brownies?"

Calla sighed and briefly gestured at Rachel and Jordan. "Where I go, they go. They would have found out eventually. Might as well do it now."

Marie shrugged. "Very well, but...a reunion."

"It's an idea. We'll discuss it on the way." Calla paused as she thought of Marie's engagement. "We have a lot of things to discuss."

Marie nodded. "Let me change into my riding clothes first."

"Take your time and then meet me at the stables." Calla looked at Rachel and Jordan and curtly nodded towards the door. "I need to see to something."

CALLA

Jordan and Rachel walked into their bedroom. Calla walked in and slammed the door shut behind her.

"What the hell were you thinking?!" Calla yelled at them.

Rachel looked at Calla in fear. "I'm sorry. We had brought the trunk to Marie's room and set it down."

Jordan nodded. "We set it down and saw it was unlocked. We opened it and saw the pretty dresses inside, and I figured we'd have enough time to try some on before you and Marie got there."

"They weren't yours to try on!" Calla yelled at them. "You embarrassed me in front of my best friend!"

"Sorry!" Jordan exclaimed defensively.

Calla raised her left hand, ready to strike Jordan across the face. Jordan flinched. But then Calla willed herself to lower her hand. She shut her eyes tight. Jordan stared at her.

"We all come from the Goddess, and to Her we shall return, like a drop of rain flowing to the ocean." Calla took a deep breath, released it, and opened her eyes. "I've been soft on you. I should leave you in Sir Duncan's charge while I'm gone, but my father said you're my responsibility. When we get back from Ursalia, you two will learn the true meaning of drudgery. Come with me and pack me a change of clothes."

CALLA

After Rachel and Jordan packed a change of clothes for Calla, and Calla had gotten her sword, the three of them went down to the stables. Marie was waiting for them. She was carrying her own bag.

Calla walked over to Morgana's stall and petted her. "Hey, girl. We're going on a little trip. Is that okay?" She looked at Jordan and Rachel. "Girls, prepare four horses."

"Four?" Rachel asked in surprise.

Calla nodded. "We're taking one for Viviane. She doesn't own a horse."

Rachel nodded.

"Where do we get the stuff?" Jordan asked Calla.

"In the tack room."

Jordan nodded, a blank expression on her face.

Rachel rolled her eyes and pulled on Jordan's arm. "This way, idiot."

"Well, I didn't know where it was!"

"We did some repair work in it last week!" Rachel reminded her.

Calla shook her head. "I'm not looking forward to a few hours of this."

Marie smiled in amusement. "Oh! What about Cavin? Will he be coming?"

Calla felt disappointed that Marie had brought up his name. "Um-"

"Did someone say my name?" Cavin walked over to them, smiling. "Hi, Marie."

Marie nodded. "Cavin."

"Going on a trip somewhere?" Cavin asked them.

Calla was hesitant. "Ursalia."

"Ursalia?" Cavin asked in surprise.

"Yes."

A moment of silence passed between them. Rachel and Jordan returned, selected four horses, and began prepping them.

"And you weren't going to invite me?" Cavin asked Calla.

"I, um, I was kind of looking forward to some girl time. Marie and I have a lot to talk about."

"Oh."

Calla could sense Cavin's disappointment. "However, if you wish to keep an eye on Jordan and Rachel, so Marie and I can have some peace and quiet, then you may come along."

Cavin shook his head. "Uh-uh, you're on your own with that." He waved and then walked away. "Have a safe trip."

"Thanks."

CALLA

The four girls arrived in the glen and rode up to Viviane's house. Rachel was holding onto the reins of the fifth horse while also trying to ride her own. It wasn't pretty.

Calla dismounted Morgana and offered the reins to Marie to hold onto. She looked at Jordan and Rachel. "No need to dismount." She walked over to the door and knocked on it.

Soon, the door opened. Viviane was standing there, wearing a blue robe.

"Calla, what brings you here?" Viviane asked in surprise.

Calla smiled. "I was wondering if you'd like to come on a little trip with us."

"'Us'?" Viviane asked in surprise. She looked, saw Marie, smiled, and waved. "Oh! Hi, Marie!"

Marie smiled and waved at her. "Bonjour, Viviane!"

Viviane waved at Rachel and Jordan. "Hi, girls."

Jordan waved. "Hi, Viviane."

Rachel moved the reins for the fifth horse to her left hand and then waved. "Hi, Viviane."

Viviane looked at Calla. "Where are we going?"

"A city called Ursalia."

"Never heard of it."

"I have some friends there that I'd like you to meet."

"Why me?" Viviane asked.

Calla smiled and shrugged. "Why not?"

Viviane smiled. "All right. Just let me put on some clothes and feed Archie. Oh, how far is this Ursalia?"

"Fairly far, but we should reach it before nightfall."

"Should I bring some food?" Viviane asked her.

Calla felt embarrassed that she hadn't thought to bring any. "Yes, and some water."

Viviane entered her house and returned with a small cloth bag and a waterskin. She closed the door and then mounted the extra horse.

The five of them set off, Calla leading the way.

"So who are these friends of yours?" Viviane asked Calla.

Calla took a deep breath, released it, and proceeded to tell them about the Gummi Bears, relating all of the adventures that she had personally experienced. Marie had heard most of it already, but it was new to Viviane, Rachel, and Jordan. Calla then told of all of the things that had occurred since Marie had left Dunwyn after the fair. That got everyone all caught up.

CALLA

"I admit...the idea of talking bears is a bit...odd." Viviane shrugged. "Then again, the world is full of fanciful creatures, so...why not? Oh, is anyone hungry?"

Calla, Marie, Jordan, and Rachel raised their hands. Viviane opened her bag, took out some dried meat, and offered it to them. They thanked her.

Calla took a bite of the meat, which was tough on her teeth. She chewed and swallowed. "What is this?"

Viviane smiled. "A new creation of mine. I thin-sliced a slab of beef, added spices, and smoked it until it was dry. The result is a high-protein snack that won't easily spoil. I call it beef twerky."

Calla nodded. "It's good. You should sell it at the festival. The name could use a little work, though."

They rode in silence for a while.

Calla figured she had put off long enough the unpleasant subject that was on her mind. She looked at her fellow princess. "So, Marie, why are you getting married?"

Marie was a bit surprised at the bluntness of Calla's question. She sheepishly looked at her friend. "Because Papa demands it."

"And you just agreed to it? That doesn't sound like the Marie that I know and-" Calla caught herself and shut up.

"Well, what was I supposed to do?" Marie asked her.

"Fight back! Stand up for yourself! Yell! Kick! Scream! Do what you do best!" Calla told her. "My father had pestered me about getting married as well. I stood up for myself, and he's learned to not push me."

"Well, that's good for you, but I couldn't do that."

"Why not?" Calla asked her.

"Because, in my kingdom, marriage is a condition of the rite of succession."

"What a bunch of bullshit!" Rachel exclaimed.

Calla opened her mouth to admonish her, but then she realized she agreed with her.

"Totally!" Jordan added. "Fight the patriarchy!"

Viviane smiled.

Calla looked at Marie. "Is being Queen that important to you?"

Marie looked at Calla in surprise. "What other kind of life is there for me?"

Calla shrugged. "I don't know. Listen, I can't speak for your father or even my father, but...you'd always be welcome in Queen Calla's court."

"Merci. That is very kind of you, Calla, but you know me. I refuse to settle for anything less than being a queen."

Calla thought for a moment. "Then don't."

Marie was confused. "You're not making any sense."

Calla was silent, hesitating for only a moment. "Marry me."

Marie nearly fell off her horse. Calla reached out with her right hand and steadied her.

Marie stared at Calla in shock. "What did you just say to me?"

"Marry me." Calla paused for a moment, trying to collect her thoughts. "I love you, Marie. You're my best friend. I guess I just hadn't realized...how deep that my love ran...until I was confronted with losing you."

Marie was silent for a while, trying to process this. Then she shook her head. "No, it's a stupid idea. The Church would never allow it."

"Never mind the Church. Viviane can marry us." Calla looked at Viviane. "Right, Viviane?"

Viviane shrugged. "I could, assuming your father, His Majesty, will allow it."

Calla smiled. "Well, I'll just have to convince my father, His Majesty, that he'd be gaining an awesome new daughter-in-law." She looked at Marie. "So how about it, Marie? If you're willing to have me as your wife, I'll gladly have you as mine, and my home shall be your home, and my queendom shall be your queendom."

Marie thought about it. "I'm going to need some more time to think about this."

"Fair enough, and you'll have plenty. We're here."

They came to a stop and looked down into the valley. The city of Ursalia was before them.

Calla and Marie looked at each other. Calla smiled and winked, and then she suddenly took off. Marie chased after her.

CALLA

The five companions arrived at the city's gate before long. A Gummi Bear in the guard tower, nearly asleep, suddenly woke up at the sight of them and fumbled for his bow and arrows. Calla recognized him as Sir Thornberry, although she wasn't terribly familiar with him.

"Who goes there?!" he demanded.

Calla smiled. "Princess Calla of Dunwyn and companions, Sir Thornberry. I believe I'm on the admittance list."

He checked. "Oh, yes, here you are." He looked behind it. "They're okay! Open the gate!"

The gate opened, and Calla, Marie, Viviane, Jordan, and Rachel rode into the city.

They soon came to the city's center. The area was mostly quiet, since most shopkeepers had closed up for the night.

"Hello!" Calla called. "Is anybody here?!"

Receiving no answer, Calla brought Morgana to a stop and dismounted her. She walked around and searched for a building with any light in the windows.

Suddenly, upon turning around, she was tackled to the ground.

"Calla!" Viviane called in concern.

Calla instinctively grabbed hold of the figure and flipped both of them over. She then looked down at the figure lying beneath her, and she grinned widely. "Sunni!"

Sunni Gummi smiled at her friend. "Hi, Calla. Still as sharp as ever, I see."

Calla laughed. "You're one to talk. I'm the one that gave you lessons."

The two of them laughed. Calla got off Sunni and helped her to her feet. Calla was surprised at how much that her friend had grown. Sunni had a new, larger outfit - still in the same green color - to go with her new figure.

The two of them hugged each other tightly.

"It's so good to see you!" Sunni exclaimed.

"Same here!" Calla agreed. "It seems like forever!"

"Calla Pendragon!" a voice called.

Calla looked beyond Sunni for the source of the voice.

Ursa Barbic stepped out of the shadows, clutching a spear in her hands. "What are your intentions towards my wife?"

"Wife?" Calla looked at Sunni in surprise.

Sunni smiled. "Ursa's been training me, and we kinda fell in love. We got married last week."

Calla smiled. "I'm happy for the two of you."

She and Sunni released each other. Ursa walked over and rubbed noses with Sunni.

Sunni looked at Calla. "What brings you here?"

"I'll get to that. I'd like to tell everyone at once. Where can we put our horses for the night?" Calla asked.

Ursa looked at her. "I'll handle that."

Calla looked at her traveling companions and nodded. They dismounted their horses and walked over to Calla and Sunni. Ursa walked over to the horses.

Sunni looked at Marie and smiled. "Hi, Marie!"

Marie smiled. "Bonjour, Sunni!"

Calla gestured. "This is Viviane, my teacher."

Viviane smiled. "Hello, Sunni."

Sunni smiled. "Hi, Viviane."

Calla gestured again. "These are Jordan and Rachel, my...slaves."

Jordan smiled. 'Hi, Sunni."

Rachel smiled. 'Hi, Sunni."

Sunni looked at Calla in shock. "Slaves, Calla?!"

Calla sighed. "It's a long story. Listen, I've already been over a lot of this today and would prefer to not repeat myself so soon. The sun is below the horizon. Please show us to our lodgings. I'll explain everything in the morning - as long as it's done to everyone at once."

Sunni smiled. "I'll make it happen. We'll have a big breakfast meeting. I'll have a guard sent to your room to escort you there. Follow me."

The five humans followed Sunni.

"You really think you can get everyone to show up for a big meeting on short notice?" Calla asked Sunni.

Sunni smiled confidently and pointed at herself. "Easily. I've got major pull around here."

Calla smiled and rolled her eyes. "Suuure."

"Oh, do you want anything to eat before you turn in?" Sunni asked them.

"We ate on the way." Viviane offered Sunni her bag. "Here, have some beef quirky."

Calla looked at Viviane. "Still not quite there."

CALLA

Calla, Marie, and Viviane were given a room in a building usually reserved for visiting Gummies from across the sea. Jordan and Rachel were given an adjacent room.

Calla, Marie, and Viviane were just settling in to bed for the night (Viviane took one, and Calla and Marie took the other) when there was a knock on the door.

Calla stood up, walked over, and opened the door.

Jordan was standing in the hallway. She didn't look happy.

"What is it, Jordan?" Calla asked her, tired. "We're trying to go to sleep."

"The beds are too small."

Calla stared at her.

"No shit! They were built for Gummi Bears!" Rachel called from their room.

Calla nodded. "Yeah, what she said. Go to sleep."

"There's only one bed in our room, and Rachel's hogging all of the space. She's a bit on the large side."

"I heard that!" Rachel yelled.

"Bite me!" Jordan yelled back.

Calla rolled her eyes. "Rachel, get in here!"

Rachel walked into the hallway and then shoved past Jordan into Calla's room. Jordan followed, giving Rachel a death stare.

"I am sick of hearing the two of you arguing with each other and just being ungrateful for what you have."

"Well, what do you suggest we do about it?" Rachel asked her.

"Do? I don't know." Calla looked to Viviane for advice.

Viviane shrugged. "By your own suggestion, part of being a priestess involves counseling. It seems to me that your students are looking to you for counseling."

Calla was skeptical. "But I have no experience in counseling."

"Well, then do some counseling, and you'll have experience."

Calla didn't find that to be the least bit helpful, but she looked at Jordan and Rachel. "You two used to be best friends, right?"

They nodded.

"And more."

They were hesitant, but then they nodded again.

"So maybe you should consider being with each other."

They were surprised.

Jordan shook her head. "There's no way that I can be with this loser."

Rachel looked at her. "You're one to talk!"

Calla sighed. "Shut up and listen, both of you."

Rachel and Jordan looked at her.

"I know there's bad blood between the two of you. I know you've had a falling out. If you don't want to be honest and share the details with me, fine, I can't make you, but I'm trying to help you. Like it or not, you two are in this together for the long term. You made that decision when you accepted my offer. The two of you share a rather sick and despicable bond that few people know. Like it or not, the two of you are each other's best chance at love, because, despite all of the hell that you've caused, and indeed because of it, you know where the two of you stand with each other, and I have a feeling that you two will be the only ones that would want each other. So you can either continue to blame each other...or work on healing your relationship. You loved each other once; I think you can again."

Rachel and Jordan looked at each other, uncertain.

Calla shrugged. "Talk it over. See what happens. Just don't stay up too long. Tomorrow's a big day."

Viviane smiled. "Indeed. It's the autumnal equinox."

Calla looked at her in surprise. "Shut up!"

Viviane frowned. "Excuse me?"

Calla laughed. "Oh, sorry, that means 'You're kidding!'"

Jordan and Rachel laughed.

Calla looked at them. "Good night."

"Good night." They turned and went back to their own room.

Calla closed and locked the door.

"So, if the autumnal equinox is tomorrow, doesn't that mean the Fall Festival should begin tomorrow?" Marie asked.

Calla turned and looked at her. "If it's true, it should." She got into bed and lay to Marie's right. She looked at Viviane. "Are you sure about this, Viviane?"

Viviane got into her own bed. "The timing of the changing of the seasons and the waxing and waning of the moon are very important to my practice. I'm certain."

Calla sighed. "Great, our astronomers miscalculated. We're gonna have to work hard once we get back to Dunwyn." She yawned. "Anyway, good night."

Marie yawned. "Bonne nuit."

Viviane yawned. "Good night."

Calla tried to get to sleep, but her mind was preoccupied with everything that would occur tomorrow, and the bed was too small for both her and Marie to sleep comfortably. There was only one thing to do: she snuggled against Marie and hugged her.

"Uh, excusez-moi, what are you doing?" Marie demanded.

"Hey, this is better for both of us, and it's something that I hope you'll want to get used to." Calla closed her eyes and drifted off into a peaceful slumber.

CALLA

Early the next morning, after Calla, Marie, and Viviane had gotten dressed and brushed their hair, they left the room.

Calla knocked on the door to Rachel and Jordan's room. There was no response. She knocked again. Nothing.

Calla turned the knob and opened the door. "Girls-" She blushed upon seeing them and quickly closed the door. She looked at Marie and Viviane, her cheeks red, and smiled. "They've made up."

"Are we going to wait for them?" Marie asked.

Calla shook her head. The three of them started walking.

A Gummi guard soon approached them.

"Are you our guide?" Viviane asked him.

He nodded. "Follow me."

They did, leaving the building.

Viviane inhaled deeply and slowly released her breath. "Ah, autumn is here."

Marie looked at her in confusion. "It smells a lot like late summer to me."

Viviane smiled. "Oh, c'mon, Marie, the breath of autumn is a whisper to the soul. Go on. Take in autumn's breath."

Calla and Marie looked at each other, shrugged, inhaled, and exhaled.

Calla shrugged, not particularly impressed. "It's okay."

Viviane's smile widened. "Give it time."

The guard led them to a round building. They entered the vestibule and then followed him down a hallway to a door. He opened it for them. Calla, Marie, and Viviane walked into the room.

It was a large, circular room. There was a large, round table in the middle of the room, and it was packed with dozens of Gummi Bears. The ladies' jaws fell open in surprise.

Calla stared at the sight, suddenly feeling overwhelmed and intimidated. "Holy shit."

To Be Continued...