Once Upon a Time in Enchancia Chapter 24: Coming Together, a sofia the first fanfic

Once Upon a Time in Enchancia

Welcome to Chapter 24 of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia". Song in this chapter: "Double, Double, Toil and Trouble" from "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban".

Chapter 24: Coming Together

October 31, 1868

It was a Saturday morning at Enchancia Castle, and everybody was preparing for Sofia's annual Halloween party which would take place that night. As Violet, Dorrie, and Candice walked into the castle ballroom, they noticed that they were the only ones in the ballroom (the rest of the staff had been scattered across the castle). Since Violet, Dorrie, and Candice were alone at the moment, they decided to talk among themselves. Dorrie found herself lost in thought.

"Penny for your thoughts?" Violet asked Dorrie.

"I was thinking back to that Halloween two years ago, Mom," Dorrie remembered. "The one where we went back in time to the 1690s."

"A Voyager trip?" Amber asked as she walked in. "It's just the four of us here. And since you're training me to be a Voyager, I'd like to know more."

"Of course, Princess Amber," Violet agreed. "It was when Dorrie and Candice were thirteen. We were sent by Voyager Command to a New England village in 1693, right after the Salem Witch Trials had ended."

"Considering the three of you are witches, that must have been a very dangerous mission," Amber theorized.

"Let's say challenging," Candice pointed out.

"If you'll sit down, Princess Amber, I'll tell you what happened," Violet said as she remembered back to the mission in 1693.

September 14, 1693

It was a Friday afternoon in the Village of Clarksbury, located in the Province of Massachusetts Bay. A mile away from the village, Violet, a thirteen-year-old Dorrie, and a thirteen-year-old Candice appeared out of thin air. Violet opened her Omni, and the Omni's red light started flashing.

"Red light," Violet warned as she brought out her electronic guidebook, and connected it by way of a patch cord to her Omni. Violet then started reading what her electronic guidebook was transmitting. "This time line is really messed up," Violet noted. "This village is currently under siege by evil witches. We've best transform into clothing of this time, then keep our wands out of sight."

Violet, Dorrie, and Candice waved their wands over their heads, and magically transformed their clothes into 1690s dresses. The three then put away their wands, and walked toward Clarksbury. As they entered Clarksbury, they noticed a number of buildings were nothing but smoking ruins.

"Who are you?!" a man demanded to know of Violet, Dorrie, and Candice as a group of men raced up.

"I'm Violet Cooper, and these are my daughters, Dorrie and Candice," Violet explained. "We're on our way to Boston to start employment there. We are looking for lodging for the night."

"Stand down," the man directed the men. "These are only travelers."

As the men dispersed, Violet turned toward the man. "Why the security?" Violet asked, curious.

"This village is under siege," the man explained. "For the past few days, we've been under attack by witches."

"For what reason?" Dorrie wanted to know.

"They want our village," the man answered. "We told them no, and they started attacking us. The three of you would be wise to be on your way while the going is good."

"We'll take our chances," Violet responded. "If you could direct us to your inn, we would be most grateful."

"At least that is still standing," the man said as he pointed to a building.

That night

Violet, Dorrie, and Candice had checked into the inn, and were asleep when they were awakened by some loud explosions.

"Looks like the hags have returned," Violet noted. "We've best get out there and see if we can lend a hand to the village."

Violet, Dorrie, and Candice ran from the inn, and found themselves on a village street. They looked to see an evil witch chasing down a girl around nine-years-old. Violet brought out her wand, aimed it at the evil witch, and said "Repulsia!" which hit the evil witch with a magical beam, knocking out the evil witch.

"Get to safety!" Candice commanded the girl.

An evil witch nearby noticed what happened, and turned to the other evil witches. "Flee!" the evil witch yelled to the other witches. "This village is defended ... by other witches!"

All the evil witches mounted their brooms and fled the village, as the villagers started heading toward Violet, Dorrie, and Candice.

"Witches!" a woman yelled at Violet, Dorrie, and Candice.

"Get them!" a man yelled.

"Wait!" another woman commanded. "The three of them may be witches, but the mother defended us from the attack."

The man who Violet, Dorrie, and Candice had met when they first arrived in the village walked up. "Explain yourselves," the man requested.

"We're good witches, sir," Violet explained.

"Good witches?" the man questioned.

"Among people, there are good people and bad people," Violet pointed out. "The same applies to witches. We're not all evil."

"She speaks the truth," the mother of the nine-year-old girl said as she walked up. "This woman saved my daughter. I'll be forever grateful to her."

The villagers bowed and curtsied in the presence of Violet, Dorrie, and Candice.

"That's not necessary," Violet instructed. "We're not gods. We just have ... skills you lack."

"Why help us?" the man asked.

"Because evil must be battled when it shows its ugly head," Violet answered. "We're not going to let innocent people be bullied. We'd like to help you ... if you'll let us."

"In exchange for?" the man wanted to know.

"Knowing that we've helped a village maintain its freedom," Violet informed the man. "And the hope that this will help mend relations between humans and good witches. Our two sides need to heal, need to come together, after recent events in Salem Village."

"You are a wise woman," the man smiled at Violet. "What happened in Salem Village was folly. This can be a fresh start ... for all of us."

The villagers clapped and cheered as two men brought forward the witch that Violet had knocked out.

"What do we do with this one?" one of the men asked.

Violet walked up to the witch, and grabbed the witch's wand from the witch's waistband. Violet then broke the witch's wand in two, and threw it on the ground in disgust.

"You broke my wand!" the witch screamed at Violet. "How dare you!"

"Easily, that's how," Violet smirked at the witch as the two men dragged the witch away to be locked up. Violet then turned to the villagers. "We've scared off the evil witches for the time being. But, they'll be back once they get their guts together."

September 15, 1693

The next morning, the villagers and Violet, Dorrie, and Candice were standing in the village square when a woman's voice came out of nowhere.

"I am Electra, leader of the witches attacking you," the woman's voice echoed out. "So, you've managed to get some good witches to defend you. No matter, your village will still fall. In the end, we will win ... and you will die. Prepare for your fate."

"I know that name," Violet said to Dorrie and Candice as she thought. "Of course! Electra is an ancestor of Neila!"

"Oh, great!" Candice said in disgust.

"This can't be good," Dorrie sighed. "Neila is bad enough. I can only imagine what an ancestor of hers is like."

"What do we do?" a woman asked in fear.

"Stand firm," Violet instructed. "This Electra character is trying to generate fear among you. This is your village. Are you going to let it fall without a fight?"

The villagers picked up rifles, pitchforks, and any other kinds of weapons they could lay their hands on. At that same moments, the amulets that Violet, Dorrie, and Candice were wearing became visible, and started brightly glowing.

"What's happening?" Dorrie asked.

"Our amulets are summoning help," Violet smiled.

In a few moments, a plump white woman with red hair, a young white woman with red hair, and a young white woman with brown hair appeared out of thin air.

"Mrs. Weasley!" Candice exclaimed in joy.

"Well, if it isn't Lady Candice," Mrs. Weasley smiled, looking at Candice. "You've grown into a lovely young woman."

"How did we get here, Mom?" the young white woman with red hair asked Mrs. Weasley.

"By way of Lady Violet, Lady Dorrie, and Lady Candice's magical amulets," Mrs. Weasley explained. "We've been summoned."

"But where are we?" the young woman with brown hair asked, puzzled.

"The year 1693," Violet explained. "September 15th to be precise."

"But Lady Violet, Lady Dorrie, and Lady Candice were attached to the 1800s," the young white woman with red hair pointed out. "How can they be in the 1600s?"

"There have been rumors of them being in different time periods," the young white woman with brown hair remembered. "Some kind of time travelers?"

"Sirius was right," Mrs. Weasley smiled at the young white woman with brown hair. "You are the brightest witch of your age."

The young woman smiled at the compliment, as Mrs. Weasley turned to Violet, Dorrie, and Candice. "I'm Molly Weasley. This is my daughter, Ginny, and my daughter-in-law, Hermione. What may we do for you, ladies?"

"This village is under attack by evil witches," Violet explained. "These people are going to need our help."

"Don't get me wrong, Lady Violet," Mrs. Weasley whispered. "I'm all for helping out those in need, but this is the same society who damned all of us at Salem. It is a deep wound."

"I realize that," Violet whispered back. "But, there has to be a reconciliation between our kind and humans. Let it start here."

"You're right, of course," Mrs. Weasley agreed.

At that moment, a group of evil witches on brooms appeared in the sky over the village.

"Here we go," Violet announced. "Everybody ... ready yourselves."

As the evil witches swooped in on their brooms, Violet, Dorrie, Candice, Mrs. Weasely, Ginny, and Hermione started firing on the evil witches with their wands. At the same time, the villagers started shooting and throwing things at the evil witches. In a few moments, the evil witches were forced to back off for a few moments as they regrouped.

"Dorrie, Candice," Violet directed. "You're up."

As the evil witches once again came in on their brooms, Dorrie transformed into her werewolf form, as Candice transformed into a large white dragon. Some of the evil witches landed to do battle, and were met by Dorrie who quickly beat the living daylights out of them. At the same time, Candice took flight and started breathing fire on those evil witches who were still in the air on their brooms. The evil witches in the air were forced to avoid Candice's dragon fire, as Violet, Mrs. Weasley, Ginny, and Hermione continued firing with their wands.

"Enough!" Electra shouted as she landed on her broom. "I will not tolerate your interference!"

As Violet started to step forward to take on Electra, Violet was stopped by Mrs. Weasely.

"I've handled this type before," Mrs. Weasely announced. "I'll take care of this bully."

Electra and Mrs. Weasley raised their wands and started firing on each other. At first, the two were equally matched. Suddenly, with a strength from within, Mrs. Weasley started firing more powerful shots from her wand, forcing Electra to the ground. Mrs. Weasley then stood over Electra, and firmly placed her foot on Electra's throat.

"It's over!" Mrs. Weasely barked at Electra. "You're beaten. Surrender ... or die!"

"I ... yield," Electra said in defeat.

"Your leader has yielded," Mrs. Weasley announced to the evil witches. "You really want to be connected to her anymore?"

The evil witches mounted their brooms, and fled the scene, as Mrs. Weasley continued to stand over Electra.

"I don't want to see you or anybody connected to you back here again," Mrs. Weasley ordered Electra. "If you come back, you'll be leaving ... in a box!"

As Electra was about to argue the point, Candice landed, and breathed some dragon smoke in Electra's direction. It was enough to drive the point home. Mrs. Weasely let Electra go, as Electra quickly fled from the village.

"Green light," Violet said as she opened her Omni, and the saw its green light now on. "Everything is back to normal."

"Good," Mrs. Weasley acknowledged, relieved. "Well, I suspect it's time for me, Ginny, and Hermione to be going. Until we meet again."

"Until we meet again," Violet smiled as Mrs. Weasely, Ginny, and Hermione disappeared into thin air. Meanwhile, Dorrie and Candice transformed back into their normal selves.

"We are in your debt," the man who appeared to be in charge of the village said to Violet, Dorrie, and Candice. "From this point forward, all good witches who enter Clarksbury will be treated as friends."

"Thank you," Violet said, grateful. "It's time for the three of us to be leaving."

"What about Electra and her evil witches?" the man wanted to know.

"She and her witches won't be bothering you again," Violet reassured the man. "Live your lives in peace."

"And if we should need you again?" the man asked.

"Make a wish," Violet smiled as she adjusted the dials of her Omni, and Dorrie and Candice took hold of her arms. Violet then pressed a button on her Omni, and the three disappeared into thin air.

Back to October 31, 1868

"Wow!" Amber exclaimed, impressed, after hearing Violet's story. "That was some adventure. What happened to the witch who was captured?"

"She was charged for her part in attacking the village," Violet answered. "She served a number of years in jail as a result."

"Sounds like everything worked out well," Amber smiled.

"Yes," Violet admitted, before turning to Dorrie and Candice. "We have a ballroom to spruce up. We've best be getting at it."

"And I've best be getting ready for tonight," Amber happily said. "Thank you for the story, Violet."

"Anytime, Princess Amber," Violet smiled as she, Dorrie, and Candice got to work.

That night, in the ballroom, Violet, Dorrie, and Candice were going over last minute preparations for the party.

"Have the extra plates arrived?" Violet inquired.

"They arrived five minutes ago," Dorrie smiled.

"And the apple cider?" Violet asked.

"I've just brought it out from the Guest Reserve," Candice reported.

"Good," Violet smiled. "And the sandwiches?"

"Arriving now," Dorrie reported.

"And Queen Lydia's surprise for Princess Lucinda?" Violet asked.

"Expected within a half hour," Dorrie answered.

"Everything is going as planned," Candice added.

"The two of you are so efficient," Violet praised Dorrie and Candice. "You make me so proud."

"Thank you, Mom," Dorrie smiled. "We've had a good teacher ... you."

Violet then hugged Dorrie and Candice. Queen Miranda walked in, observed the touching scene, and smiled.

In a few minutes, everybody was gathered to await the beginning of Sofia's Halloween party. As everybody waited, Fritz and Eileen, the royal singers of Enchancia, stepped forward and started singing.

"In the cauldron, boil and bake. Fillet of a fenny snake. Scale of dragon, tooth of wolf. Witches mummy, maw and gulf."

"Double, double, toil and trouble. Fire burn, and cauldron bubble. Double, double, toil and trouble. Fire burn and cauldron bubble!"

"Double, double, toil and trouble. Fire burn, and cauldron bubble. Something wicked this way comes!"

Everybody clapped at Fritz and Eileen's song as fifteen-year-old Sofia stepped forward.

"Thank you all for attending tonight," Sofia smiled. "I hope all of you have a good time tonight."

With that, Sofia's Halloween party got underway. As Candice was walking around the ballroom seeing to the needs of the guests, she saw fifteen-year-old Elainna Marie Pearson petting Creamy.

"Oh! Hi, Candice," Elainna smiled. "I was just saying hi to Creamy. He's a wonderful cat."

"I've had him since he was a kitten," Candice smiled back.

"I've got a cat of my own," Elainna announced. "His name is Shade. He's a Russian Blue."

"Nice," Candice remarked, pleased.

"I'll be bringing Shade with me to Hexley Hall," Elainna revealed. "He's very smart, and he'll be my helper animal, just like Creamy is to you."

"Creamy and I look forward to meeting Shade," Candice said, pleased, as a teen girl Elainna's age walked up.

"You remember my cousin, Anniale?" Elainna asked Candice.

"Of course," Candice smiled. "From when all of you visited Enchancia Castle. Where is the rest of your family?"

"Over talking to King Roland and Queen Miranda," Anniale answered as she pointed to where her family, King Roland, and Queen Miranda were standing having a pleasant conversation.

As Candice looked at Roland, Miranda, and the Pearson family talking, she noticed Lydia in the distance walking up to fifteen-year-old Lucinda.

"Lucinda," Lydia started, "I have a surprise for you."

Lydia walked Lucinda over to an area of the ballroom where a blond haired woman in her sixties was talking with a group of people. Lydia then got the woman's attention.

"Lucinda, this is ..." Lydia started.

"... the Witch Queen, Annora," Lucinda finished in awe. "It is a great honor to be in your presence, my Queen." Lucinda then curtsied.

"It is my great honor to be in yours, Princess Lucinda," Annora smiled. "I've been wanting to have some time with you for a while now. When Queen Lydia extended an invitation for me to attend this party, I jumped at the chance."

"Thank you, Lydia," Lucinda beamed in gratitude.

"You're very welcome," Lydia smiled as she hugged Lucinda. "I'll leave the two of you to get acquainted."

"Queen Lydia has told me good things about you," Annora smiled at Lucinda. "She really thinks the world of you."

Lucinda smiled in gratitude at the praise.

"You've made all of us in the Order of Midnight very proud," Annora continued. "You're a fine witch, and a fine princess."

"Most kind, my Queen," Lucinda said in gratitude.

"I don't stand on formality where my witch sisters are concerned," Annora smiled. "Please, just call me Annora. And may I call you Lucinda?"

"I'd like that, Queen ... I mean, Annora," Lucinda answered.

"Good," Annora smiled. "May we talk for a while? I'd like to get to know you better."

"I'd enjoy that," Lucinda smiled. "Our castle sitting room is just down the hall. We can be comfortable there while we get to know each other."

"Thank you," Annora said, pleased. "After you, Lucinda."

Lucinda and Annora then left the ballroom.

About an hour later, the Halloween party was in full swing. At one point, Sofia walked up to Baileywick.

"Have you seen Lucinda?" Sofia asked Baileywick. "It's almost time for Sir Dax to appear at the party."

"She's in the sitting room with Queen Annora," Baileywick answered.

"Queen Annora is here?" Sofia asked, pleased that Lucinda had such an important visitor.

"Yes," Baileywick smiled. "Lydia arranged it. Lucinda, and Queen Annora, will be returning to the ballroom in a few minutes."

In a few minutes, Lucinda and Annora walked in. At that point, Sofia walked up.

"Queen Annora," Sofia greeted as she curtsied. "I'm Princess Sofia. We're honored to have you here."

"I'm honored to be here," Annora smiled as Lucinda stood next to Sofia. "I hear good things about you."

Sofia smiled at the complement.

Annora looked at Sofia and Lucinda standing together. "Look at the two of you," Annora smiled. "Two fine sisters, two fine princesses, and two fine royal sorceresses. The two of you do Enchancia proud."

"Thank you," Sofia and Lucinda said in gratitude.

At that moment, Baileywick made an announcement. "Attention, guests," Baileywick announced. "Sir Dax will be arriving in five minutes."

Sir Dax arrives

All the guests gathered together in the ballroom. In a few minutes, a bright light filled the ballroom. Suddenly, the bright light faded and standing in it's place was ... Sir Dax.

"Happy Halloween, everybody!" Sir Dax greeted everybody with a smile.

The guests clapped, very impressed with Sir Dax's entrance.

"I am Sir Reginald Dexter Sircliff the Fourth," Sir Dax introduced himself to the guests. "You may call me Sir Dax. It is my great pleasure to be here tonight."

The guests again clapped.

"And this is my bat, Boo," Sir Dax announced as Boo appeared before the guests. The guests once again clapped. Sir Dax then continued. "I hope you don't mind, but I took the liberty of inviting some ghosts I know. The ghosts I've invited are from both Hexley Hall and Hogwarts."

The ghost of a fat friar floated up from the floor, waving his hands and acting spooky ... in a fun way. Behind the friar was the ghost of the Bloody Baron, flying through the air while waving his sword in a playful way. Then, the ghost of a man with curly hair floated up.

"I've heard of you," Dorrie said to the ghost with curly hair. "You're Sir Nicholas."

"A pleasure to meet you, my dear," Sir Nicholas smiled as he kissed Dorrie's hand.

At that moment, the ghost of a woman with black hair floated up.

"Ah!" Dax smiled. "Helena Ravenclaw. It is a pleasure having you here."

"It is my pleasure to be here," Helena smiled back. "I so rarely leave Hogwarts. Where are our friends from Hexley Hall?"

"Right here, Helena," the ghost of a man said as he floated up accompanied by the ghost of a woman.

"It is good to see you again, Alexander Pepperton," Helena happily acknowledged. "And it is good to see you as well, Kate Kennicot. It is nice to see the two of you together, as you were meant to be."

"We may not have been allowed to be together in life ..." Kate started.

"... but we're together in the afterlife," Alexander smiled. "We now have an eternity of love."

Everybody smiled at the tender moment, as the ghost of a woman appeared before them.

"Well, bless my soul," Sir Nicholas happily said. "If it isn't Virginia Waldgrave. It's been a while."

"Yes, it has, Nicholas," Virginia smiled. "I look forward to finding out what you've been up to."

"It would be my pleasure, my lady," Sir Nicholas smiled as he gently took Virginia's hand, and the two floated off to the side of the ballroom.

"Where is Ronald Stryker?" Helena asked.

"He left Hexley Hall shortly after it was founded," Kate explained. "He didn't like the idea that Hexley Hall would be open to everybody, including those of mixed blood. He stormed off, never to be seen again. We half expected his ghost would come back after he died, but ... he never did."

"Sounds like what happened at Hogwarts with Salazar Slytherin," Helena remembered. "Although, Salazar did stick around for a few years, at least."

As the ghosts from Hogwarts and Hexley Hall talked among themselves, Dax turned to the guests attending Sofia's Halloween party.

"There are other ghosts here as well," Dax announced to the guests. "They will make their way among you. Enjoy the experience."

Annora then gently tapped Lucinda's shoulder.

"There are two ghosts here for you, Lucinda," Annora smiled as she pointed in the direction of the ghosts.

"Mom! Dad!" Lucinda beamed as tears of happiness flowed down her face. Lucinda raced over to the ghosts of her birth parents, and the three started a happy conversation.

Sofia looked around the ballroom, and noticed that happy reunions between the living and the dead were taking place throughout the ballroom. Amber, James, Roland, as well as Claire Pepperton were having a happy conversation with the ghost of Queen Melinda. Timothy was having a happy reunion with the ghosts of his birth parents, and Marie was also having a happy reunion with the ghosts of her birth parents. Other reunions were taking place as well.

"Our daughters have become two beautiful young women," the ghost of Donald Cosmarune said to Dorrie and Candice.

"Indeed," the ghost of Mary Cosmarune agreed, before turning to Candice. "I see you have glasses, now. Most becoming."

"Dorrie has a surprise for you," Candice smiled at Donald and Mary. "Show them, Dorrie."

Dorrie held out her hand, and concentrated. In a few moments, Dorrie's Werewolf Staff appeared in her hand.

"Oh, my!" Donald exclaimed in awe.

"The Werewolf Staff," Mary acknowledged, pleased. "Its been found. And its where it belongs ... with you, Dorrie."

"So, girls," Donald smiled, "tell us what else has been going on in your lives."

"Of course," Dorrie agreed.

As Dorrie and Candice happily caught up with Donald and Mary, the ghost of a man floated up to Jade and her mother, Emma.

"It's good to see you again, my precious ones," the ghost of the man smiled at Jade and Emma.

"Freedrick?" Emma asked with tears of joy in her eyes. "It is you, Father?"

"Yes, Emma," Freedrick smiled.

"Grandpapa!" Jade said in joy.

Freedrick gently hugged Emma and Jade as the three started having a happy conversation. Meanwhile, as Eric Androcasia and his fifteen-year-old daughter, Valentina, watched the happy scene, the ghost of a lovely black woman floated up to them.

"Eric? Valentina?" the ghost of the woman asked.

"Kyra?" Eric asked with tears of happiness in his eyes.

"Yes, my love," Krya gently said as she kissed Eric.

"Mother?" Valentina asked.

"Yes, my precious one," Kyra smiled. "My, you've grown into a fine young woman. You and your father have made me quite proud."

"You've looked in on us?" Valentina asked.

"Oh, yes," Kyra acknowledged. "Many times. I see Inky is growing into a fine cat."

"You know about Inky?" Valentina wanted to know.

"Who do you think pointed him in your direction?" Kyra suggested.

As Kyra, Eric, and Valentina happily talked among themselves, Sofia looked over to another reunion - the ghosts of the parents of Lydia's husband, King Graham of Lacorinth, were having a happy reunion with Graham, Lydia, and Graham's sister, Princess Eva.

"You have a beautiful wife, Graham," the ghost of Graham's father said of Lydia.

"Beautiful, and talented," the ghost of Graham's mother complemented Lydia.

"Oh, I wouldn't go that far," Lydia shyly said.

"I would," the ghost of Graham's mother smiled. "Graham's Queen, and Royal Sorceress of Lacorinth. And you do both so well."

Lydia smiled at the complement.

Sofia, not wanting to horn in on the moment, walked over to the refreshments table. At the refreshments table, helping themselves to some apple cider, were Lita Mizuki and her friend, Taiki Hamasaki. The Satu embassy in Summerset Village was now completed, and Lita and Taiki were living there with their families. The embassy in Summerset Village was completed quickly because an existing mansion there was bought and refurbished, saving time and money.

Sofia had invited Lita, Taiki, and their families to the party since she had become friends with all of them. As Sofia stood at the refreshments table, she noticed that Lita and Taiki were looking at a reunion going on nearby.

"What's going on?" Sofia asked Lita, curious.

"It's Nonya," Lita smiled. "She's found the ghosts of her birth parents."

As Sofia looked, she saw eight-year-old Nonya happily talking to the ghosts of her birth parents, with eight-year-old Molly standing next to Nonya.

"I'm so happy I found you," Nonya smiled at the ghosts of her birth parents. "I never thought I'd have this chance. And this is Molly, my best friend, and my sister, now. We're a package deal."

"We're so glad we have this chance to talk to you," the ghost of Nonya's birth father said as he hugged Nonya.

"And we're so glad you have such a loyal friend, and sister, in Molly," the ghost of Nonya's birth mother smiled at Nonya, before turning to Molly. "Thank you for being there for Nonya, in good times, and bad."

"You're welcome," Molly smiled back.

"We want you to know, Molly, that we consider you to be as much a daughter to us as Nonya is," the ghost of Nonya's birth father said as he hugged Molly.

"Oh, Molly!" Nonya smiled. "My birth parents are now your birth parents as well."

"I don't know when I've seen anything so touching," Eileen said with tears of happiness in her eyes as she walked up.

"Thank you for adopting Nonya and Molly," the ghost of Nonya's birth mother said, grateful. "You're a fine mother to them. We know they will be in good hands with you."

Eileen smiled at the complement.

As the five had a happy conversation, Sofia smiled at the touching scene. At one point, as she looked around the ballroom, Sofia noticed that Amy had found the ghosts of her birth parents, and the three were having a pleasant time talking to each other. Looking further into the ballroom, Sofia also noticed that ten-year-old Lisa Elodie was having a pleasant time catching up with the ghosts of her birth parents.

It was nice seeing the living and the dead reuniting with each other. It was really quite magical.

A witch tradition

In a little while, Lucinda and Annora gathered the guests together.

"If we may have your attention please," Lucinda announced. "I and Queen Annora have put together a last minute event in celebration of Halloween. We ask that all of you step outside."

As the guests walked outdoors, Lucinda walked up to Sofia.

"Thank you, Sofia, for allowing us to add this to the party," Lucinda gratefully said.

"It was my pleasure," Sofia smiled. "And Dad absolutely loved the idea."

Everybody walked outside to the back of the castle, and soon found themselves standing in the area usually reserved for the annual Festival of Plenty. As Lucinda looked at the area, she had a pleasant memory from a few months earlier when she had been given the honor of being the Princess of Plenty.

Flashback:

"It is my honor to present to you this year's Princess of Plenty - Princess Lucinda," Baileywick announced.

Lucinda knelt down as Malachite and Fig placed the Crown of Blossoms on Lucinda's head. Lucinda then stood up, walked up to the dirt circle, and waved to the crowd as the crowd cheered. Lucinda then took a seed from the Crown of Blossoms, and held it in the air.

"I plant this seed in the hope that there will be plenty ... for all," Lucinda smiled as she dropped the seed into the dirt circle. The seed quickly blossomed, producing a wonderful circle of magical vegetables, as the crowd cheered. On the sidelines, both Amber and Sofia happily gave Lucinda a thumbs up as Lucinda smiled in happiness.

End of flashback, and back to the present.

"Halloween is an important holiday for witches and warlocks," Annora started. "Halloween allows us to remember and honor our loved ones who have passed on. To this end, Princess Lucinda and I give you ... a Halloween bonfire."

"Oh, I love a good bonfire," Boris Hauntley happily said to his wife, Oxana.

"It reminds me of home," Oxana smiled as she, Boris, and their baby daughter, Vampirina, watched.

"Halloween is also a time of cleansing and releasing," Annora continued. "On Halloween, it is our tradition to leave habits behind we no longer need."

"Each of you is being given a piece of paper, and a pen" Lucinda announced. "You are invited to write down on the paper an outmoded habit that you wish to end, then cast the paper into the flames. Imagine yourself adopting a new, healthier way of being as you move around the fire clockwise".

The staff set a pile of wood and brush on fire, and soon the pile was burning brightly. Everybody wrote down something, then, one by one, each person cast their paper into the flames as he or she moved around the fire clockwise. Everybody then spent some time watching the bonfire glow. A peace fell over those gathered, as if a weight had been lifted off of their shoulders. It was truly a wonderful feeling.

After a while, everybody went back into the ballroom and resumed the party. In a few minutes, Sofia walked up to those gathered.

"I have a surprise for you," Sofia happily announced. "My good friend, Princess Jade, has kindly agreed to perform the Dance of the Fluttering Fans from Satu for your entertainment."

Jade stepped forward, wearing an angel costume she had made for the Halloween party. Jade then performed the Dance of the Fluttering Fans in a flawless manner. Everybody gathered enjoyed Jade's performance, and were very impressed with Jade's skill.

"That looked fun," a boy in the crowd commented.

"Could you teach us how to do that?" a teen girl in the crowd asked Jade.

"I don't see why not?" Jade smiled.

"Yes!" Sofia happily exclaimed.

Jade slowly went over the steps with those gathered, and in a little while, everybody was ready to try their hand at the Dance of the Fluttering Fans. Of course, being their first time performing the dance, people made mistakes. But, that was okay since the object was to have a fun time. Everybody agreed that it was very enjoyable, and wanted to better learn how to do the dance. After discussing it with those gathered, Jade happily agreed to teach some classes at the Dunwitty Community Center.

As the evening continued on, it came time for the party to end. The visiting ghosts said their goodbyes to the living, promising that they would visit again the following year. Each departing living guest was given a bag of Halloween candy, and was wished a good night by Sofia, Sir Dax, and Boo. It had been a magical night which would be remembered always.

A little while later, behind the castle in the castle gardens, Lucinda was taking a walk when Queen Miranda approached.

"Lucinda?" Miranda asked.

"Mom," Lucinda smiled. "I decided to take a nature walk of sorts before going to bed. Its a ritual that witches and warlocks perform on Halloween."

"Yes," Miranda happily acknowledged. "It allows a witch or warlock to reflect on death and rebirth and how it is a part of nature. Dorrie and Candice have told me about it. May I walk with you?"

"I'd like that," Lucinda accepted.

"Did you have a good time visiting with your birth parents tonight?" Miranda inquired.

"I did," Lucinda happily answered. "It was nice seeing them again, and to know that I'll be seeing them in the future. It's really quite comforting."

"I'm glad," Miranda smiled as she put her arm around Lucinda.

"Mom," Lucinda started, "I want you to know that just because I saw my birth parents tonight, that doesn't mean I don't love you, Dad, Sofia, Lydia, Amber, and James any less. I love the six of you very much, and I'm glad you're my family."

"And we love you very much," Miranda happily said as they walked. "We're so very happy to have you here as part of this extended family which includes you, me, Roland, Sofia, Lydia, Amber, James ... your birth parents, and those relatives who came before you. When you think about it, we're one large family."

"I hadn't thought about it like that," Lucinda admitted. "I like that. Thank you."

"You're welcome, my precious Lucinda," Miranda lovingly said.

As Miranda and Lucinda walked in the castle gardens, Roland watched from an upper window in the castle. It was nice seeing Miranda and Lucinda together as a mother and daughter.

"Excuse me, King Roland?" a woman's voice came from behind him. Roland looked to see Violet standing there.

"Yes, Violet?" Roland asked.

"I was just wondering if there was anything you needed before I turned in for the night?" Violet wanted to know.

"No, I'm fine," Roland smiled. "I do want to say that you and the maid staff did a wonderful job tonight. All of you do a fine job around the castle, and I thank all of you from the bottom of my heart."

"You are very welcome, King Roland," Violet happily acknowledged. "I'll take my leave of you. Good night, sir."

"Good night, Violet," Roland said as Violet left.

As Roland walked into his and Miranda's bedroom, he looked over at a dresser which included small framed pictures of him, Miranda, Amber James, Sofia, Lydia, and Lucinda. Roland smiled as he looked at the pictures. He had a wonderful family. A man couldn't ask for any more. Everything was right with the world.

(End of Chapter 24).

Behind the scenes

In this edition of "Behind the scenes", we look at Halloween and how witches and warlocks celebrate it.

To witches and warlocks, Halloween is knows as Samhain, and marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. Samhain celebrates that most mysterious night when the veil between the worlds is at its thinnest, and the spirits of the dead roam the earth looking to reconnect with loved ones who are still living. It is a time to renew connections, mourn those you miss, and to celebrate all that these cherished souls brought to your life. Samhain is also a time to let go of old ways that are no longer needed.

There are many rituals connected to Samhain, including ...

- Setting up an alter to honor dead loved ones.
- Cooking a special meal to honor dead loved ones (in which the dead are invited to attend).
- Visiting a cemetery to honor dead loved ones.
- Building a bonfire in order to rid yourself of old ways that are no longer needed.
- Taking a nature walk to reflect on death and rebirth and how it is a part of nature.
- Connecting with others to celebrate the holiday.

It is up to each individual witch or warlock to determine how she or he wants to celebrate the holiday. Some may choose one ritual, while others may choose to do two or more rituals. The idea is to celebrate the holiday according to one's needs and wants.

Author's notes

Anniale Pearson, Elainna Marie Pearson, and the Pearson family are characters created by epear96, and are used in this story with the permission of epear96. Meanwhile, Shade is an original character I created (with help from epear96) as a cat for epear96's original character of Elainna Marie Pearson. I now sign over the rights to Shade to epear96 to do with as epear96 pleases.

Boris Hauntley, Oxana Hauntley, and Vampirina Hauntley are younger versions of Boris, Oxana, and Vampirina from "Vampirina". Readers of past chapters of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia" will remember that the younger versions of Boris and Oxana are teachers at Hexley Hall.

Creamy is a character created for Candice by Jolly Roger Brat. Creamy is used in this story with the permission of Jolly Roger Brat. Readers of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia" will remember that in Chapter 11, King Roland is no longer allergic to Creamy, and Creamy is now allowed in the castle.

Eight-year-old Molly (Red) and eight-year-old Nonya (Angry) are originally from "Tangled: The Series" and "Rapunzel's Tangled Adventure".

For more about Dorrie, Candice, and Violet's amulets, see Chapter 5 of my story "The Newest Princess".

For more about Dorrie's Werewolf Staff, see Chapter 20 of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia".

For more about the beginnings of Hexley Hall, see Chapter 20 of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia".

For more about the death of Amy's birth parents, see Chapter 34 of my story "Dorrie: Book Two".

For more about the death of Lisa Elodie's birth parents, see Chapter 21 of my story "Dorrie: Book Two".

Freedrick Larson, Marie Perkins, Taiki Hamasaki, and Timothy O'Toole are characters created by MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury, and are used in this story with the permission of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

Fritz and Eileen are original characters created by Brigade701, and are used in this story with the permission of Brigade701.

Ginny, Helena Ravenclaw, Hermione, Hogwarts, Mrs. Molly Weasley, Salazar Slytherin, Sir Nicholas, Sirius, the Bloody Baron, and the fat friar are from "Harry Potter". Readers of my story "Dorrie" will remember that in Chapter 31, Candice's amulet summoned Molly Weasley.

Having Anniale Pearson and the Pearson family appear in this chapter was the suggestion of epear96, while having Elainna Marie Pearson appear in this chapter was my idea.

Having the ghosts of Helena Ravenclaw, Sir Nicholas, the Bloody Baron, and the fat friar appear in this chapter was the idea of Brigade701.

"I know that name," Violet said to Dorrie and Candice as she thought. "Of course! Electra is an ancestor of Neila!" "Oh, great!" Candice said in disgust. "This can't be good," Dorrie sighed. "Neila is bad enough. I can only imagine what an ancestor of hers is like" - remember that this is taking place before the events of Chapter 23 of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia", so Violet, Dorrie, and Candice would not yet be aware of Neila's ultimate fate.

Inky is from Chapter 8 of my story "Dorrie: Book Two".

Lita Mizuki was created by MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury and myself.

Lydia is from GradGirl2010's stories "My Sister's Keeper", "My Sister's Teacher", and "My Sister's Acceptance", and is used in my stories with the permission of GradGirl2010. For more about Lydia's life in Lacorinth, see my story "Sisters".

"Make a wish," Violet smiled - this is the same line that the Matt Smith Doctor used with Madge Arwell in the "Doctor Who" Christmas special "The Doctor, The Widow and the Wardrobe".

Omni, and Voyager, are from the "Voyagers!" TV series.

Queen Melinda is a character created by Jolly Roger Brat, and is used in this story with the permission of Jolly Roger Brat.

Readers of my stories "Dorrie" and "Dorrie: Book Two" will remember that Claire Pepperton is the living sister of Queen Melinda.

Satu is originally from the "Elena of Avalor" episode "Model Sister".

"Sirius was right," Mrs. Weasley smiled at the young white woman with brown hair. "You are the brightest witch of your age" - this is a nod to events in "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban".

Sofia's Halloween party in this chapter is actually a rewritten version of Chapter 5 of my story "Sisters", with additional material added in.

The Dance of the Fluttering Fans is originally from the "Elena of Avalor" episode "Model Sister". It was MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury who suggested that Jade perform it in this chapter, while Brigade701 suggested that Jade should teach the guests how to do the dance.

The Enchancia Castle Guest Reserve is a storage room containing non-perishable food and drink meant to be served to guests of the castle. The Enchancia Castle Guest Reserve includes candies, cookies, ground coffee, ground tea, soft drinks, fruit juices, and wines. Candice is in charge of the Enchancia Castle Guest Reserve.

The Festival of Plenty, the Princess of Plenty, the Crown of Blossoms, Malachite, and Fig are originally from the "Sofia the First" episode "The Crown of Blossoms".

The song that Fritz and Eileen sing in this chapter ("Double, Double, Toil and Trouble") is originally from "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban".

The Village of Clarksbury is a fictional location I created for this chapter.

Disclaimer

Anniale Pearson, Elainna Marie Pearson, the Pearson family and the other original ideas from epear96 are the property of epear96, and are used in this story with the permission of epear96.

Creamy, Queen Melinda, and the other original ideas from Jolly Roger Brat are the property of Jolly Roger Brat, and are used in this story with the permission of Jolly Roger Brat (under an agreement that the two of us may use things from each other's "Sofia the First" fan fiction stories).

"Elena of Avalor" and everything associated with it © Craig Gerber, Disney Television Animation, Team TO, and Disney-ABC Domestic Television.

Freedrick Larson, Marie Perkins, Taiki Hamasaki, Timothy O'Toole, and the other original ideas from MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury are the property of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury, and are used in this story with the permission of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

Fritz and Eileen and the other original ideas from Brigade701 are the property of Brigade701, and are used in this story with the permission of Brigade701.

"Harry Potter" and everything associated with it © J. K. Rowling, Bloomsbury Publishing, Arthur A. Levine Books, Little Brown, Heyday Films, 1492 Pictures, Patalex IV Productions, and Warner Brothers Pictures.

Lydia is the property of GradGirl2010, and is used in my stories with the permission of GradGirl2010.

"Sofia the First" and everything associated with it © Craig Gerber, Jamie Mitchell, Disney Television Animation, Toiion Animation Studios, Team TO, and Disney-ABC Domestic Television.

"Voyagers!" and everything associated with it © James D. Parriot Productions, Universal Television (MCA), and Scholastic Productions.

I only own Alexander Pepperton, Candice Cosmarune-Cooper, Claire Pepperton, Donald Cosmarune, Dorrie Cosmarune-Cooper, Electra, Eric Androcasia, Inky, Kate Kennicot, King Graham, Kyra Androcasia, Lisa Elodie, Mary Cosmarune, Neila, Princess Eva, Queen Annora, Repulsia!, Ronald Stryker, Valentina Androcasia, Virginia Waldgrave, the Dunwitty Community Center, the Enchancia Castle Guest Reserve, the Kingdom of Lacorinth, the Order of Midnight, and the Village of Clarksbury.