Disclaimer: I do not own Sofia The First.
A/N: Here's some cedfia for the Halloween season. The idea for this story actually came from Dream_Wreaver, and since it happened to fit well with one of the prompts from the cedfia almanac for October, 'Masquerade'. I thought I'd try my hand at it :)
Hope you enjoy.
(Sofia is 16/17)
Autumn was in full swing within the kingdom of Enchancia. The season having brought with it a portrait of red and golden hues as the leaves danced in the wind and fell from their trees. The crisp air hinting at the cold winter that would follow soon after.
Sofia arrived at the village of Dunwiddie, admiring the decorations from the window of her carriage. She had celebrated her birthday about a week ago. But with this season, and this month in particular, also came the approach of Halloween. Complete with it's many spooky festivities and fun.
The coachman stopped outside of Jade's house. Sofia hopping out to greet her friends, who were already hurrying towards her.
"Ruby! Jade!"
"Sofia!" they called in unison. All embracing each other in a group hug, just like they had when they were little girls.
The three friends were to spend the day together in the village. To commemorate Sofia's aforementioned birthday, which Ruby and Jade hadn't been able to attend due to sickness. But now having fully recovered, they were ready and willing to make up for lost time.
"Where should we go first?" Ruby asked
"Ooh! How about the park" Jade suggested
"Sounds good to me. What do you think, Sofia?"
The auburn haired princess gave a nod of approval, her usual cheerful disposition ever on her face. "The park sounds perfect!"
They spent their time spent visiting all their favorite spots, both old and new; and just relishing in each other's company, as Sofia took a break from all the obligations that had been thrust upon her since becoming a princess. Enjoying, even if just for a moment, the life she might have had, had she remained a simple village girl.
On their way to the bakery, they passed by the Charmacy. Sofia smiled softly, recalling the last time she'd visited with a certain sorcerer. When he had showed her how two ingredients, and a spell, could be combined to create an instant kaleidoscope of butterflies.
She giggled softly. The memory warming her heart and making her stomach flutter. The way thoughts of Cedric always did these days.
But the happy feeling was soon replaced by one of mild bitterness. The longing ache she felt for the sorcerer finding it's place in her heart once again too.
"Sofia?"
Her friend's voices called her out of her wistful state, and she looked to see them staring back at her with perplexed expressions. Wondering what was keeping her.
She shook off her uneasiness, and called back with a wide smile. "Coming!" Running to catch back up so they could continue their trek.
They purchased some pumpkin muffins, savoring the treats with a bit of warm apple cider, before continuing their activities. But despite the welcome distractions, Sofia's mind couldn't help but continue to circle back to Cedric.
Her innocent childlike affection for the man had blossomed into a deep mature love as she'd grown into a young lady. But though she wanted nothing more than to express those feelings to him; she was daunted by the fact that they had been friends for so many years now. Years in which she had only been a little girl; and even now, she still wasn't fully an adult yet. Thus she feared any confession she made would be met with instant dismissal; and that thought alone stung her with a dread equal to the joy she felt whenever she was with him.
Love was such a strange thing. To have the potential to bring forth the same amount of either pain or happiness; and while she held out hope that it could still be the latter in her case. How, that was to be accomplished continued to elude her.
Despite her romantic concerns, she was still able to enjoy the rest of her day. Ruby and Jade none the wiser as to her quiet inner turmoil.
By the time she returned to the castle later the sun had already set, and Baileywick was waiting for her at the door. Ready to escort her to the dining hall for dinner.
It was your typical royal family meal. Everyone, sans James, (who was currently on a journey for his knight training, but was expected to return home for the upcoming holiday) had gathered around the table. Savoring the variety of warm and spiced dishes the kitchens had prepared for them. When conversation regarding All Hallow's Eve came up.
"Oh! I know!" Amber perked up. "Why don't we have a masquerade ball this year?" Her voice brimming with the excitement she always felt when planning parties.
"That sounds like a great idea, Amber." Miranda agreed with her usual soft smile
"Doesn't it?" the eldest daughter nodded confidently, before turning to her dear sister. "What do you think Sofia?"
Sofia's mind churned quietly. She liked the idea well enough in and of itself, but she was growing particularly intrigued at the thought of another exciting notion. Which quickly took root in her mind, and made her heart pound gleefully.
"Sofia?..."
She broke out of her thoughts noticing Amber looking at her with a mixture of confusion and worry. Seeking to assure her, she grasped her hand and replied. "I think a Masquerade Ball would be perfect this year."
Her sister's delighted smile returned; and she let out one more excited cry "Yes! I knew you'd think so, Sofia! What do you think Daddy?" Now inquiring of Roland with an almost childlike hope in her eyes.
"I'm sure we could could come up with something," Roland smiled. Turning to address Baileywick, who was already prepared with a quill and parchment to take down any notes in regards to their plans.
As discussion of the topic continued, Sofia hummed silently to herself. A new found hope beginning to settle it's way into her heart.
"So, did you hear about the Halloween Masquerade Ball Amber's throwing this year?" Sofia asked Cedric while helping him in his workshop one day. Trying to sound casual as she handed him the bottle of frog slime.
The sorcerer didn't even look her way, simply taking the ingredient from her and adding it to the cauldron. He stirred it in for a few moments before finally answering, "Well I'm not one to keep track of every event this castle hosts. But yes, I've heard of it."
"Will you be going?"
"If your father asks me to do a magic show," he answered simply. Still not looking away from his work.
She pouted, disappointed by that answer. Knowing it wasn't a full guarantee that he'd be present.
"You could come as a guest if you wanted," she suggested.
He scoffed lightly, finally turning to grace her with an amused smirk. "I'm afraid that would require a royal invitation, my dear."
Not to be dissuaded, she stood tall, declaring. "Well then, You have it! I, Princess Sofia, formerly invite you, Cedric The Sensational, to the All Hallow's Eve masquerade ball."
He raised a brow at her display.
"And..." she looked away shyly for a moment before meeting his eyes again with her usual cheerful expression. "I hope to see you there."
Cedric eyes widened for the briefest moment, then he gasped softly, looking away. His face no longer visible to the princess's scrutinizing gaze. She frowned, worried she had upset him some how. Until he cleared his throat and turned slightly. Allowing her a view of his profile.
"I'll um...I'll think about it," he said softly; and she could see the beginning of a small crooked smile on his face.
Sofia's heart warmed up with hope at that. Her expression brightening in turn.
He cleared his voice once more, "Ah..b..but first! I need to make sure I have everything ready for the Masquerade Ball to begin with," He turned back to his work. Focusing on it renewed vigor. "I was even asked to make the punch glow."
"Um.. .you're not going to do that with the potion you're making right now are you?" she grimaced. Remembering the frog slime they'd added just moments before.
The sorcerer snorted, catching her disgust. "Don't worry princess. This is for something completely different."
The days passed on, and preparations for the ball continued until the night of All Hallow's Eve finally approached.
Guests were already arriving, but Sofia was staying in her room for just a bit longer. She hoped that arriving fashionably late, as the saying goes, would work to her advantage. Making it less obvious she was in fact actually one the princesses that lived in the castle.
Her heart pounded as she stared at the mask, which would conceal her face. Hiding her identity and allowing her the chance to confess her feelings to Cedric.
Yes, that had been her plan ever since Amber suggested the event weeks ago.
But there was just one more thing she needed to do first...
She surveyed her appearance in the mirror. Her hair was adorned with tiny diamonds and amethysts, and had been braided and style into a fancy up do that was so atypical of her normal tresses; that any attempt to recognize her by them would provide at least a little difficulty.
Her feathered swan gown bore a strong resemblance to the one she'd crafted in years ago. Save that it was lacking the artificial wings and tail, and was more white than the silvery lavender sheen of her childhood costume. The bodice was also cut lower, revealing an ample amount of her bosom. The sleeves hanging off her shoulder and almost coming in contact with the upper ends of the delicate white gloves she wore.
It was just a little bit more grown up than what she'd normally wear. But that also suited her purpose just as well.
Satisfied with her outfit she proceeded on to her next step. Putting on the mask, she clutched her amulet, and after uttering a silent prayer that it would work, she softly declared. "I wish to look older."
She felt the magic swirl around her. Indicating that something had happened. Peeking her eyes open she caught her reflection in the mirror. The teenager now bearing the appearance of a woman in her mid twenties. She was taller, and her figure fuller; allowing for a pleasant revealing tightness in her clothes. To her surprise her costume had changed to. The white and lavenders she typically preferred now replaced with black and shades of plum. Not what she'd been expecting but it certainly helped with her disguise. So she'd take it. Even her makeup seemed to mature for the ensemble.
A Black Swan... she surmised. Smiling with light amusement through painted red lips.
She left her tiara at her table. Not wanting to give away even the slightest hint as to her identity. Speaking of clues, there was one obvious one she'd have to take care of...
Grabbing a small shawl she had sewn for this purpose (which had also conveniently changed from it's original white to black) she placed it over her shoulders, then concealed her amulet inside within a secret pocket.
Allowing herself one final look over, she gave a satisfied nod then started out on her quest.
She slipped quietly into the ballroom. Not wanting to draw any attention to herself. Thankfully everyone else was too caught up enjoying each other's company, or the dancing, or the food, or the atmosphere, to take any notice of her.
Sofia gazed around the room. Unlike her first Halloween party in the castle, Amber had been primarily in charge of this ball; and as usual her sister pulled out all the stops. Shades of midnight blue and purple seemed to cover the whole expanse of the ballroom. Cedric's touch of magic could be seen in the form of silver lights floating high in the air, giving the appearance of stars in the night sky. An enchanted fog rose up from the floor, embracing her in a gentle coolness as she traversed across the room.
It was eerie, but elegant. Far different than the usual faire she associated with Halloween parties. But that seemed to suit Amber's style just perfectly.
Of course there was a touch of the more "traditional" All Hallow's Eve mood as well. Particularly at the buffet table. Where small jack o' lanterns framed the display of a variety of spooky themed foods. Including the enchanted punch Cedric had mentioned, glowing a gentle blue. And even the guests in their costumed gowns and suits helped to more fully blend that mixture of Masquerade Ball and Halloween Costume Party.
Her eyes caught sight of Amber, quite obvious in her decadent gold and silver peacock costume/gown. Chatting lightly with Vivian, an accessory of an imp's tail and horns serving for her costume; and Clio, who was dressed as an ancient Corinthian deity.
Of habit, she was ceased by the immediate desire to go over and greet them. But stopped herself when she recalled that with her disguise they may not recognize her. At least that was her hope. In any case, if she attempted to make herself known to her friends it would likely break the illusion. Thus sabotaging the whole purpose she had set up in regards to Cedric.
So she decided instead to hold off on mingling for just a little bit longer; and focus on finding her beloved sorcerer.
Sofia traveled around the room. Exchanging pleasant greetings with the other guests as she did so. Giving the practiced impression that she was merely enjoying herself like everyone else. And not looking for someone.
At one point she exchanged brief greetings with Hugo and Hildegarde, the Friezenburg princess having also repeated her childhood idea of a fairy queen (though this time far more elaborate than the simple mask she had worn at the Royal prep ball) her fiance matching in kind. Though they were as pleasant as their typical personalities allowed, they gave no indication that they knew who she was. Which gave her more faith in her disguise.
She smiled fondly as they departed from her arm in arm. The pair were set to marry in January, and it brought her pleasure to know that her friend's had found happiness with each other.
And she hoped to have a little bit of that happiness herself soon too...
Unfortunately try as she may, she couldn't seem to find Cedric anywhere. A sinking feeling began to settle in her heart; and she started to resign herself to the disappointment that the hope she had laid up seemed doomed to yield no fruit. When she heard a familiar voice.
"Merlin's Mushrooms!"
That phrase, uttered in a sharp whisper, immediately caught her attention. Turning towards it's source she finally saw him. Hidden away in the background and fog. Attempting to wipe off the beverage he'd spilled on his person. Before pulling out his wand and banishing the stain with a spell.
A delighted grin played out on her face when she noticed that he was actually dressed up for the occasion. Donning a dark blue and purple formal robe and sorcerer's hat, which matched the colors of the room near perfectly; and probably had lent to her inability to spot him earlier. A black feathered cape and long beaked mask completed the ensemble. Giving the appearance of a raven.
A feeling of excitement swelled up within her, but she gently pushed it down. Taking a breath she started towards him.
"Good evening," she greeted softly. Curtsying politely when he turned to her. "You're the royal sorcerer aren't you?"
She could see him blinking at her through his mask. His mouth gaping open for a few seconds, before shaking his head softly. As though banishing some foolish notion from his mind.
"I am," came his simple reply. "Cedric the Sensational...or Great if you prefer," despite achieving his coveted title years ago, he was still fond of the one she'd given him; and often used the two interchangeably. "at your service." Bowing lightly in return.
Standing close to him she noticed that his cape was held together with a golden clasp. A shock of brightness to the otherwise dark outfit. The adorning jewel within a large ruby.
'Is that...?' her smile widening and a warmth rising up within her at the delightful notion.
"Is everything alright, miss?" he asked. Noticing she seemed to be a bit out it, though pleasantly so.
"Oh yes," coming out of her thoughts and back to the present. Noticing the music change slightly she tried. "Would you care to join me for a dance?"
Surprisingly, he flinched ever so slightly. "Oh um..." looking around almost expectantly, before returning his gaze to the woman before him. Her head cocked slightly in confusion at his behavior.
"I suppose, one dance wouldn't hurt," he agreed. Composing himself, and offering her his arm and a kind smile.
She grinned in return. Accepting it and allowing him to lead her out onto the floor
What was originally intended to be just one dance, turned into several as the night progressed. Much to the sorcerer's surprise. This mysterious woman seemed to absolutely captivate him, as they waltzed near continuously throughout the ballroom.
Sofia for her part was absolutely elated with joy. Oh! How she'd long for a moment like this with him for so long. It was being like under some wonderful enchantment. Her only hope that the magic, and this feeling, wouldn't end with the night.
Their dancing continued. Interspersed only by short breaks to enjoy some of the spooky themed treats, or chat for a bit.
At one point, while they were sipping punch, James, dressed as a lion, approached them. Holding up a single chocolate truffle fashioned into the image of a spider.
"Hey Cedric! Do you think you can enchant this to move like a real spider?" he asked
The sorcerer raised a suspicious brow, but complied with his request. Muttering a spell and causing the little "legs" on it to wriggle realistically.
"I'm not so sure I should have done that," he admitted. Watching as the prince disappeared back into the crowd.
Sofia only gave a wry smile in response. Whatever mischief her brother had in mind, was of little consequence to her at the moment. Besides, knowing him, it couldn't be anything too malicious.
What mattered to her now though was this moment. Just her and Cedric. They were alone now, well as alone as two people can be at a party, and desire to tell him all she felt was brimming up within her...
Her heart pounded nervously, and she swallowed. Gathering her courage, she reached out to touch his shoulder. But was interrupted when a sudden commotion drew the attention of everyone in the ballroom.
"James!" Amber's high pitched squeal of fright and anger sounded throughout the ballroom. The prince having taken it upon himself to play a little Halloween "trick" on his sister with the spider truffle.
The scene was admittedly amusing. But not at all conducive to a romantic environment and confession.
"Perhaps we should move ourselves outside for a bit," Cedric suggested. Not too keen on sticking around to witness Amber's tirade.
Sofia nodded in agreement. Yes, outside would be better. The two of them departing quietly out the door.
The night outside was clear and quiet. A pleasant contrast to the noise and bustle of the celebration within. The full moon casting a gentle glow upon the grounds.
They strolled lazily through the garden. The air around them crisp but pleasant on their skin.
"I've had a wonderful time tonight," she started softly. Taking a seat at the fountain.
He nodded softly, joining her "So have I..."
"Maybe...we could do something like this again sometime..."
He stared at her, and that bubbling emotion welled up within her once more.
It was now, or never.
"Cedric...I.." her voice squeaked, unable to find words. Figuring actions would speak better anyway, she leaned in closer. Their lips mere centimeters apart, when he suddenly pulled back. A hand held up to impede any further progress.
Sofia felt her heart drop into her stomach at the distance between them. Watching her beloved shaking his head in refusal.
"Forgive me miss," he apologized. "Your company this night has been wonderful, it's just... Well for one thing I don't even know your name! More importantly however..." he sighed, looking away. He felt like an utter fool for refusing her, especially when she reminded him so much of her.
Though he supposed using her as a substitute for the one he truly desired would probably be crueler to both of them in the long run. So perhaps it was just better to be honest rather than try to defy his greater feelings...
"I'm afraid my heart already belongs to someone else..." he admitted, looking away. "Someone I can never have, though it doesn't stop me from wanting..."
If Sofia's heart hadn't shattered already, the punch to her gut at those words certainly finished the job. "Oh..."
She could almost hear Amber's voice in her head, encouraging her with words like "But he said he couldn't be with that person. So surely there's still a chance for you!" However, the wistful lovestruck expression on his face dashed any hopes that she could ever compete with the one who truly held her dear sorcerer's heart.
"Who is it?..." Perhaps it was a bit masochistic. But a part of her wanted to know whom she'd lost to.
Cedric only stared off into the distance. His mind clearly lost in thought as he softly uttered. "Princess Sofia..."
Her soft gasp broke his train of thought; and a panic rapidly surged through him. Merlin's Mushrooms! He'd just confessed his love for the princess to a total stranger. One who could very easily relay it to Roland. Who would no doubt be enraged to learn of his feelings for his youngest daughter.
Before he could do anything however, he heard a frantic rustling next to him. For the briefest second out of the corner of his eye he saw his dance partner cast off her mask and shawl. Before grabbing his face and kissing him with such force his own mask fell askew in the process.
His eyes widened, and he shoved her away. Tearing off the mask that now rested crookedly upon his face in his anger. "Merlin's mushrooms, woman! I thought I made my disinterest quite clear!"
But his scolding evidently went unheeded, an elated tear filled smile the only answer he received. Which confused him to no end, until she laughed "Mr. Cedric, it's me!"
Brow furrowed for a moment. He opened his mouth, about to question or scold further; and that was when he finally got a proper look at her face, now no longer hidden beneath the mask. His jaw slowly dropping in recognition.
But no...it couldn't be...
His doubts however were pushed aside when he saw the gleam of a familiar pink jewel. Resting around her neck.
"Sofia?..."
Her smile never wavered, nodding enthusiastically. Grasping the amulet she declared, "I wish to look like my own age again." With a swirl of magic the image of the Sofia he knew and adored was before him. Her costume returning to it's original colors as well.
The sorcerer could only gape in disbelief, as she took his hand in hers.
"It's me, Mr. Cedric, And..." the soft blush of her cheeks matching her pretty pink lips. "I love you too!"
"You... you do?"
She nodded again, entwining their fingers together. "I wanted to tell you sooner. But I was afraid you wouldn't listen because...well..." silently alluding to the obstacles they both were already aware of, "and then the masquerade came up. And I thought, maybe if you didn't know it was me..."
He gaped, picking up on her thought process, before catching something. "And was it your intention to court me in that disguise forever?"
The blush on her face, quickly switched to one of embarrassment "Oh, well...I guess I didn't think about that."
He chuckled, cupping her cheek with his hand. A warm feeling rising up within her as he leaned in closer. His lips meeting hers again for a tender, yet fervent kiss.
She moaned delighted, her eyes alight with stars when they pulled back. He was staring back at her with the most soft expression. When he suddenly gasped sharply.
"What's wrong?" she frowned. Concerned at his panicked expression.
"Poseidon's Pumpkins!" he groaned, burying his face in his hands. "Roland is going to kill me!"
The princess blinked, then laughed, "Oh, Mr. Cedric," lifting his face to give him another peck on the cheek, which he allowed with no protest. "It'll be fine."
He sighed, sitting back up, allowing her to snuggle up next to him. "I do hope you're right..." He and Roland had been getting along rather well the past few years. So it was unlikely he'd react that violently. Still, it wasn't a conversation he was looking forward to having.
But for now, this moment was all that mattered. The two of them holding each other close. Enjoying the peaceful night air, and the pure bliss of being together.
"I guess we should go back inside, huh...," she said after a while. Though she was reluctant for this moment to end.
"Probably," a hint of disappointment in his own accompanying sigh, feeling much the same way as her. But gave her a crooked grin. "I imagine they've been waiting for their little princess." he teased affectionately. Making her giggle.
The pair stood up, and after reapplying their masks, returned to the ball arm in arm.
"Oh, Sofia!" Amber chirped. Finally spotting her sister as she reentered the ballroom with Cedric. "There you are. I was just about to go check on you. Come on!" grabbing her arm. "Let's go say hello to everyone."
"In a moment," she protested, pulling her hand away. "First, I want to share a dance with Mr. Cedric." Gesturing to the sorcerer who blushed beneath his mask.
Amber raised a brow, and shrugged, "Suit yourself." Leaving, with the expectation that her sister would catch up with her later.
Alone again, Cedric offered Sofia his hand. "My princess," pulling his beloved in close as they swayed once again to the hauntingly beautiful music.
A/N: The end! Thank you for reading, and Happy Halloween!