Once Upon a Time in Enchancia
Welcome to Chapter 26 of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia". Songs in this chapter: "Peace and Joy" from the "Sofia the First" episode "Holiday in Enchancia", and as a last minute addition (in the "Behind the scenes" segment of this chapter), "Making Our Dreams Come True" from "Laverne & Shirley".
Chapter 26: Holiday Time (Part Two)
December 25, 1868
It was Wassailia morning at Enchancia Castle. As Candice walked down a hall in the castle, Baileywick approached her.
"Good morning, Candice," Baileywick smiled. "Happy Wassailia."
"And a happy Wassailia to you, sir," Candice smiled back.
"Your investments statement," Baileywick announced as he handed Candice a piece of paper. "I've already given your mother and Dorrie their statements."
"Thank you, sir," Candice said, appreciative, as she read the statement.
"As you can see, your investments are doing quite well," Baileywick informed Candice. "Your purchase of stock in the new cookie factory outside of Summerset Village is returning some fine dividends. It was a smart move on your part to buy stock there."
"I had a good feeling about it," Candice revealed. "Plus, everybody loves a good cookie."
"True," Baileywick admitted. "Meanwhile, now that you and Dorrie have delivered the food and presents to the orphanage, the two of you have the rest of the day off. Go and be with Prince Frederick and Prince Everett."
"Thank you, sir," Candice smiled as she walked away.
In a few minutes, Candice arrived at the castle sitting room, and saw Violet talking to Marlene in the hallway.
"Now that you're done with the sitting room, please report to the laundry," Violet instructed Marlene.
"Yes, ma'am," Marlene acknowledged as she walked off, passing Candice. "Lady Candice," Marlene greeted as she passed.
"Marlene," Candice greeted. "Happy Wassailia."
"And a happy Wassailia to you, Lady Candice," Marlene greeted as she continued on her way. As Candice walked into the sitting room, Marlene glared at Candice. "Stinking traitor!" Marlene thought to herself in disgust about Candice. "You turned against the dark powers. There will be payment for that!"
Candice walked into the sitting room to see Dorrie talking to Frederick, Violet talking to King Jonathan and Queen Mira, and Everett talking to his and Frederick's eleven-year-old sister, Princess Lissa.
"Candice," Everett smiled as the two hugged.
"Everett," Candice smiled back, as everybody in the room smiled at the touching scene.
"Happy Wassailia, Candice," Lissa smiled.
"Happy Wassailia, Princess Lissa," Candice happily greeted.
"You know it's just Lissa to you," Lissa smiled at Candice.
"Sorry," Candice happily apologized. "I'm still in maid mode."
"Well, you, Dorrie, and Violet are off for the rest of the day," King Jonathan happily pointed out. "We're all friends here, and Wassailia is a holiday for friends to get together and enjoy each other's company. So, no titles today - just first names."
"Yes King ... I mean, Jonathan," Candice responded with a smile.
"It was lovely that King Roland and Queen Miranda invited all of you for Wassailia," Violet commented.
"We wouldn't have missed it for anything," Queen Mira happily responded. "And, I'm happy to be with you, Dorrie, and Candice. It's a reminder of my past when I was a maid. Good times."
"Service has its rewards," Violet smiled.
"And it's a great honor to serve," Mira smiled back. "Many in the outside world don't realize that, but we know better, don't we?"
"Yes, we do, Mira," Violet happily acknowledged.
"Dorrie, Candice," Jonathan started. "Why don't you take a walk with Frederick and Everett? I'm sure the four of you would like to be alone for a while."
"Thank you, Dad," Frederick smiled as he took Dorrie's hand, and Everett took Candice's hand. The four then walked into the hallway as Violet, Jonathan, Mira, and Lissa smiled.
"They make two fine couples," Jonathan happily noticed.
"Bless them," Mira smiled.
At that moment, Oona walked into the sitting room.
"Oh, I'm sorry," Oona apologized. "I didn't realize anyone was in here."
"Jonathan, Mira, Lissa," Violet started. "This is Princess Oona of Merroway Cove. Princess Oona, this is King Jonathan, Queen Mira, and Princess Lissa of Ornburgh."
"A pleasure to meet you," Oona smiled as she curtsied.
"It's my pleasure to meet you, my dear," Jonathan said to Oona as he kissed her hand. "I've heard good things about you."
"Sit down with us, Princess Oona," Mira invited. "We'd like to get to know you better."
As Oona sat down, she, Jonathan, Mira, Lissa, and Violet had a pleasant conversation. It was a nice way to spend a Wassailia morning.
In the outdoor area behind the castle, Frederick and Dorrie walked together, holding hands. In a few moments, Dorrie's snowy white owl friend, Arnan, flew down and rested on Dorrie's shoulder.
"Hello, old friend," Frederick smiled as he gently petted Arnan. "It's a pleasure to see you again."
Arnan happily leaned into Frederick's gentle touch, as Dorrie smiled at the touching scene.
"Arnan likes you," Dorrie happily said. "He always has."
"Dorrie is lucky to have you as a friend," Frederick said to Arnan, as Arnan gently rubbed his beak against Fredrick's cheek.
"We're both lucky to have Arnan as a friend," Dorrie smiled, as Arnan happily hooted in agreement.
A short distance away, Everett and Candice were walking, holding hands, when Candice's white cat, Creamy, walked up.
"Hello, Creamy," Everett smiled as he reached down to pet Creamy. "You're Candice's friend for life."
"Yours, too," Candice smiled, as Creamy gently nudged Everett's ankle with his head.
At that same moment, Dorrie called over.
"Let's say we go into that one room cottage over there," Dorrie suggested. "We can start a fire in the fireplace, and be nice and comfy."
Dorrie, Frederick, Candice, and Everett walked over to a small red brick one room cottage with a glass skylight on the roof, and fancy windows on the sides of the cottage. Dorrie opened the door to the cottage, and she, Frederick, Candice, and Everett walked in, followed by Arnan and Creamy. There was a long couch in the cottage, along with a few chairs. Arnan perched on the top of a chair, while Creamy laid down on a rug on the floor. Dorrie, Candice, and Everett sat down on the couch, as Frederick started a fire in the cottage's fireplace. Frederick then sat down on the couch next to Dorrie.
Soon, the cottage was warm and cozy. Dorrie laid her head on Frederick's shoulder, as Candice laid her head on Everett's shoulder. The four sat on the couch enjoying looking out the windows at the snow covered castle grounds. Arnan and Creamy looked at the four, and smiled. It was a pleasant scene - Dorrie and Frederick, and Candice and Everett, sitting down on the couch and having a relaxing moment in each other's company. It was a pleasant moment that would be remembered always.
Wassailia afternoon
In the throne room of Enchancia Castle, the royal family, Baileywick, and some of the maids were busy decorating the Wassailia tree. Amber picked up a menorah, and started climbing a ladder to the top of the tree when she was stopped by nine-year-old Marie Perkins.
"Princess Amber," Marie started. "That doesn't go on the top of the tree. That's a menorah, and it goes on the table over there."
"Oh, right," Amber apologized as Marie took the menorah, and handed Amber a Wassailia star instead. Marie then took the menorah, and gently put it on the table.
"Why the, what was it called again? A menorah?" Amber asked Roland.
"Because Marie is celebrating Hanukkah instead of Wassailia this year," Roland explained. "Marie is half Jewish on her birth mother's side, and wants to be closer to her birth mother this year which is why Marie is celebrating Hanukkah."
"Ah! I see," Amber smiled, before turning to Marie. "Happy Hanukkah, Marie."
"Thank you, Princess Amber," Marie smiled. "And a happy Wassailia to you."
In a little while, the tree had been decorated.
"A fine job, everyone," Roland praised.
"Sir," Baileywick started. "It is almost time for the gift giving to the staff."
"Ah, yes!" Roland smiled. "I've been looking forward to this."
The castle staff started entering the throne room, as Roland, Miranda, Amber, James, Sofia, and Lucinda greeted each member of the staff as they walked in.
"A happy Wassailia to you all," Roland happily greeted the staff.
One by one, each member of the staff walked up, and was handed a gift by Roland. In a little while, it was Violet's turn.
"Violet," Roland smiled, "happy Wassailia. Please accept this as a token of our appreciation for all you do here."
Roland handed Violet a box. Violet opened the box, and discovered a very nice robe, and a pair of comfy slippers.
"Thank you, sir," Violet responded, pleased.
"You are very welcome," Roland happily acknowledged.
Next was Dorrie's turn.
"Dorrie," Roland smiled, "happy Wassailia. Please accept this as a token of our appreciation for your service."
Roland handed Dorrie a box. Dorrie opened the box, and discovered a large book - The Complete History of Kippernium.
"Oh, thank you, sir," Dorrie said, pleased.
"We know how much you like the book we gave you about the adventures of Jane and Dragon," Roland happily observed. "We thought this would make a nice companion book to the book we gave you."
"It will, sir," Dorrie smiled. "Thank you for this."
"You are very welcome," Roland smiled back.
It was then Candice's turn.
"Candice," Roland smiled, "happy Wassailia. Please accept this as a token of our appreciation for your service here."
Roland handed Candice a box. Candice opened the box, and discovered a large book - A Detailed History of Middle Earth.
"We know how you enjoy the history of Middle Earth," Roland smiled. "Miranda and I came across this book, and we agreed it had your name all over it."
"Thank you, sir," Candice said, pleased. "I will treasure it always."
"You are very welcome," Roland smiled.
Other gifts were handed out to various members of the staff. Suzette Perkins, like Violet, received a nice robe and a pair of comfy slippers. It was then time for nine-year-old Marie Perkins to step forward.
"A happy Hanukkah to you, Marie," Roland smiled as he handed Marie a box. "Please accept this as a token of our appreciation for your service here."
Marie opened the box, and discovered a nice doll inside.
"Thank you, King Roland," Marie said, quite pleased. "I love it."
"You are very welcome," Roland smiled.
Wassailia dinner
It was now early evening at Enchancia Castle. In the servants area, the castle staff were enjoying a Wassailia dinner. Meanwhile, in the castle ballroom, a Wassailia dinner was taking place for King Roland, Queen Miranda, the Grand Queen, Amber, James, Sofia, Lucinda, Baileywick, Oona, King Jonathan, Queen Mira, Frederick, Everett, Lissa, Violet, Dorrie, and Candice.
"A happy Wassailia to us all," Roland toasted as he raised his glass.
"Happy Wassailia," everybody else toasted as they raised their glasses.
"Before we get started with our dinner, let's all get up and go over to the Wassailia candle," Roland suggested.
Everybody got up, and walked over to the candle, as Roland lit the candle.
"By the light of this candle," Roland started, "we wish good tidings on all of Enchancia. Those we've just met, and those we love dearly."
Everybody smiled in agreement. As they returned to their table and started eating, Miranda turned to Frederick.
"I hear you've made a decision about your future," Miranda observed.
"Yes," Frederick acknowledged. "I've decided that when I turn eighteen, I want to go to medical school. I want to become a doctor."
"A fine profession," Roland smiled.
"Thank you, King Roland," Frederick said, pleased with Roland's approval. "Dorrie and I have discussed it, and she wants to be at my side as a nurse and midwife."
"You'll make a great team," Miranda happily agreed.
"What about Frederick eventually becoming King of Ornburgh?" Amber asked, curious.
"We've decided to take it one day at a time," Jonathan answered. "A decision doesn't have to be made right now."
"No matter if Frederick wants to pursue being King, or serve in private life as a doctor, Jonathan and I will support his decision," Mira smiled. "We just want Frederick and Dorrie to be happy in their future life together. That is what's important."
Everybody nodded their heads in agreement while continuing to enjoy a wonderful meal. Sofia looked around the table, and smiled at everybody having a good time. Sofia then started singing. "The firelight is shining bright, while the snow blows cold outside." At that point, the others started joining in.
(Amber and Lucinda) "Friendly faces, warm embraces, surround us all tonight."
(All) "So we make this one simple wish, meant for every girl and boy. May the holiday bring you peace and joy."
(All) "From those that you love, to the stars up above. May the holiday bring you peace and joy."
(Violet, Dorrie, and Candice) "Peace and joy."
(All) "From those that you love, to the stars up above. May the holiday bring you peace and joy."
It was a wonderful way to spend a Wassailia evening ... an evening which would be remembered for a long time.
December 28, 1868
It was a Monday morning at Enchancia Castle. The castle was returning to its normal routine after the Wassailia holiday. Everything was peaceful inside the castle, or so it appeared. In a room in the castle, Marlene stood looking at a fancy pair of curtains hanging over a window.
"These will burn well," Marlene thought to herself with an evil smile. "I'll burn these, and soon the entire castle will burn."
Marlene brought out a wand, pointed it at the curtains, and said "Lacarnum Inflamarae" as the curtains caught fire.
"What on earth is going on here?!" a woman's voice exclaimed in shock behind Marlene. As Marlene turned around, she saw Violet standing there, with her wand drawn.
"What?!" Marlene exclaimed, taken off guard by Violet's presence.
"Lacarnum Suppressia," Violet said as she aimed her wand at the burning curtains, and the fire was magically put out.
"You interfering Mudblood!" Marlene spat at Violet as Marlene started firing her wand at Violet.
As Violet ducked Marlene's wand fire, Violet returned fire with her wand. Marlene then spotted a wooden bookend on a shelf, and magically sent it flying toward Violet. The bookend hit Violet in the head, knocking Violet unconscious. Marlene then stood over Violet with her wand drawn.
"Now you die!" Marlene said in anger to the unconscious Violet. It was then that Marlene heard a movement from behind her. Marlene turned around to see a wooden dust butler coming down on her head. As the dust butler hit Marlene, she fell to the floor, unconscious.
"Violet!" Abby shouted in fear as she looked at Violet. Abby then ran to the door. "Guards! Guards! We need help! Lady Violet has been attacked!"
A little while later, Violet regained consciousness, and found herself laying on her bed in her room. As she looked around, Violet noticed Dorrie, Candice, Abby, King Roland, and Queen Miranda standing at her bedside.
"What ... happened?" Violet asked in a groggy tone of voice.
"Marlene attacked you," Dorrie answered.
"I remember, now," Violet revealed. "Marlene was trying to set the curtains on fire. I was able to stop her, but she managed to knock me out."
"After that, Marlene tried to kill you," Candice informed Violet. "But, Abby managed to get the drop on her, and knocked her unconscious."
"Abby saved your life, Mom," Dorrie added.
"I am in your debt, Abby," Violet smiled, before turning to King Roland and Queen Miranda. "Marlene - we have to find her. God only knows what damage she could cause."
"Not to worry, Violet," Roland said in a reassuring voice. "Marlene has been taken into custody. Colonel Martinsen and Enchancian Intelligence are questioning her as we speak."
"Thank God," Violet said, relieved. "Did she cause any damage?"
"It looks like you and Abby were able to stop her before she could carry out her plan, whatever that was," Miranda reported.
At that moment, a knock came at the door.
"Enter," Roland instructed.
The door to Violet's bedroom opened, and in walked Colonel Martinsen.
"Ah, you're awake," Martinsen smiled at Violet. "How are you feeling?"
"A bit sore, but okay," Violet answered.
"Anything to report, Colonel?" Roland wanted to know.
"We were able to find out that Marlene is one of Neila's followers," Martinson informed Roland. "Marlene is angry over Neila's death, and decided to burn down the castle in retaliation."
"If only she knew the truth," Dorrie whispered to Candice.
"Then we're talking about a plot from the followers of Neila?" Roland asked.
"From what we could find out, Marlene was working on her own," Martinsen answered. "A lone wolf as it were."
"What happens to Marlene now?" Miranda inquired.
"We'll question her further, then hold her over for trial," Martinsen reported. "I've better be getting back. I'll keep all of you informed about any further information we find out."
"Thank you, Colonel," Roland said, grateful, as Martinsen left.
"We've best be letting Violet get some rest," Miranda suggested.
"Yes, of course," Roland agreed, before turning to Violet. "The royal doctor will be arriving in a little while to look you over."
"Thank you, King Roland," Violet said, grateful.
"We'll see you later," Miranda smiled at Violet as she, Roland, and Abby left.
"Don't look so worried," Violet reassured Dorrie and Candice. "I'll be fine. It takes more than one rogue maid to keep me out of the game."
"We know," Candice smiled.
"It's just that Candice and I love you so," Dorrie revealed. "If anything were to happen to you ..."
"I love the two of you, too," Violet smiled. "I'm going to be here for a long time, so don't you worry about that."
As Violet rested, Dorrie and Candice gently put their hands on Violet's arm in a show of love and support.
"I'm so blessed to have the two of you as daughters," Violet happily said.
"And we're blessed having you as a mother," Candice smiled.
December 31, 1868
At Enchancia Castle, it was 8 PM. In the castle ballroom, King Roland, Queen Miranda, Amber, James, Sofia, and Lucinda were waiting. In a few moments, Colette, Violet, Dorrie, and Candice walked in, followed by Abby Murphy and her parents.
"I'd still like to know what is going on," Abby said to her parents, curious.
"You'll see," Abby's father smiled.
"Something wonderful," Abby's mother added with a smile.
As Abby and her parents stood before those gathered, Colette came forward.
"All of us know about Marlene's attempt to set Enchancia Castle on fire," Colette started. "In the process, Lady Violet was attacked by Marlene. As Marlene attempted to kill an unconscious Lady Violet, Abby Murphy stepped in, and prevented Marlene from doing so. We are here to reward Abby for her brave act."
Colette motioned Abby and her parents to come forward.
"Abby, you have the sincere gratitude of House Cosmarune," Colette continued. "Since you did something truly special, it has been decided to give you a special honor ... with the permission of your parents. It is an honor rarely given to somebody not connected to the house. I, along with Lady Violet, Lady Dorrie, and Lady Candice, have all decided to make you an adopted member of the House of Cosmarune. You will now be known as Lady Abby Cosmarune-Murphy of House Cosmarune, with all the privileges connected to your new title."
"But, I'm just ... Abby Murphy," Abby stated, not knowing what to think of what just happened.
"We've all watched you the past few years as you've become an experienced spell caster," Colette smiled. "Now, you belong to a magical house. It is an honor richly deserved."
"Thank you," Abby acknowledged, grateful.
"There's more," Colette added with a smile. "You, Abby, now get a share of the House of Cosmarune's vast fortune."
"Oh, our precious one," Abby's mother smiled as she hugged Abby. "You are set for life."
"It's a dream come true for your mother and I," Abby's father happily added. "You'll be well provided for the rest of your days."
"And," Colette said to Abby, "your parents will be well looked after as well. They, too, get a share of the House of Cosmarune's vast fortune."
"Congratulations, Abby, Glenn, Dawn," Roland smiled at Abby and her parents. "If I may ask, what are your plans now that you've inherited a vast sum of money?"
"Dawn and I have already decided to continue working here at the castle," Abby's father announced. "I'll continue to be the treasurer of the royal family's finances, and Dawn will continue as the castle librarian. We've always been in service. It's who we are."
"Great," Roland said, pleased, before turning to Abby. "And what are your plans, Lady Abby?"
"If it's all the same to you, King Roland, I'd like to remain in service here at the castle," Abby answered. "Like my parents, I, too, have always been in service. I'm quite satisfied with being a maid, and being the castle inventory manager."
"Then, it's settled," Roland smiled. "I'm glad to have the three of you staying on."
"Quite frankly, the three of you have become a valued part of this extended family of ours here at the castle," Miranda happily added.
"Thank you, King Roland, Queen Miranda," Glenn said as he bowed, and Abby and Dawn curtsied.
As everybody talked among themselves, Sofia and Lucinda walked up to Abby.
"Congratulations, Abby," Sofia smiled.
"Being a member of House Cosmarune is a great honor," Lucinda happily added.
"Thank you, Sofia, Lucinda," Abby acknowledged. "I hope I'm worthy of it. After all, I've never had a title before. I don't know the first thing about having a title."
"Sounds like me when I first came to the castle as a child," Sofia remembered.
"And me when I first became a princess," Lucinda recalled. "Having a title does take a bit of getting use to."
"I don't even know the first thing about magical houses," Abby admitted.
"Well, there are grand houses like House Cosmarune," Lucinda explained, "and there are smaller houses ... sort of like my House of Magwin that existed in the Village of Wendarby. My parents and I had to give up everything to escape from Neila. I don't even know if the house there still stands."
"I'll have to have Dad check into that," Sofia thought to herself in regard to Lucinda's house in Wendarby.
"But, enough about that," Lucinda smiled as she motioned a male servant to come forward. "This is a celebration for you, Abby. Let's each have a glass of nectar, and toast your good fortune."
"To Lady Abby," Sofia smiled as she raised her glass.
"To Lady Abby," Lucinda smiled as she, too, raised her glass.
"Thank you," Abby acknowledged as she raised her glass.
Colette, Violet, Dorrie, and Candice smiled at the touching scene. It was the beginning of a new life for Abby ... a life full of promise.
A New Year's celebration
Later that evening, everybody left the castle and headed into the village where a New Year's celebration was starting. As everybody went their separate ways to check out various activities, Abby heard a woman's voice call out to her. Abby turned around to see Mrs. Marcella Greythorn, and her ten-year-old adopted daughter, Lynn.
"Happy New Year," Mrs. Greythorn smiled.
"And a Happy New Year to you and Lynn," Abby smiled back.
"Lynn and I heard the good news," Mrs. Greythorn announced. "Congratulations, Lady Abby."
"Thank you," Abby acknowledged, pleased. "But, how did you know? It only happened earlier this evening."
"Oh, good news travels fast," Mrs. Greythorn happily said.
"And Mom and I have a gift for you," Lynn smiled at Abby.
"Yes, indeed," Mrs. Greythorn acknowledged. "You are to come to our shop, and pick out a new broom befitting your new status ... free of charge."
"I couldn't," Abby said, hesitant.
"You've been a fine customer these past few months we've been in business here in Dunwitty," Mrs. Greythorn started. "Lynn and I would love to give you a gift to celebrate your new status. Please say you'll accept."
"Then I'll accept," Abby happily agreed.
"Excellent!" Mrs. Greythorn smiled. "We have an hour before the new year comes in. We can go over to the shop now, and you can pick out your new broom."
Abby, Mrs. Greythorn, and Lynn walked over to Greythorn's, a shop in Dunwitty that carried a wide variety of magical merchandise. Business had taken off the past few months, so much so that Mrs. Greythorn and Lynn had managed to buy an empty store next door, and had expanded the shop. Greythorn's now had the bottom floor of both shop buildings, as well as the top floor of the building which had been bought to expand Greythorn's.
"I love that Dunwitty has such a shop," Abby happily admitted. "It's nice having a local shop that has so much magical merchandise."
"Thank you," Mrs. Greythorn said, pleased. "Here are our selection of brooms. You'll find our higher end brooms off to the side."
Abby started looking at the brooms, and stopped to admire one particular broom.
"Ah!" Mrs. Greythorn smiled. "A SkyCruise 1090. You have good taste."
"I do like it," Abby admitted. "But, I feel funny accepting such a high end gift."
"I tell you what," Mrs. Greythorn suggested. "I'll give you this SkyCruise as a gift, and in return, let people know that they can purchase such high end brooms here at Greythorn's. You get a fine broom as a gift, and I get free advertising. It's a win-win situation."
"Then I accept," Abby smiled.
At that moment, a bell rang in the village square.
"Ah," Mrs. Greythorn noticed. "Thirty minutes to the new year. Let's say we go out and enjoy the festivities."
"Thank you for the fine broom, Mrs. Greythorn," Abby said in appreciation.
"You are most welcome, Lady Abby," Mrs. Greythorn happily acknowledged.
In the village square, people were walking around enjoying various activities. At one point, Abby noticed Mrs. Tweedle and the local orphans. The orphans were having fun at a face painting booth. The New Year's celebration was one of the highlights of their lives, and it was nice seeing them enjoying themselves.
"Hello, Abby," a woman's voice came from behind Abby. As Abby turned around, she saw Miss Elodie and ten-year-old Lisa standing there.
"Hello, Miss Elodie, Lisa," Abby greeted. "Happy New Year."
"And a happy New Year to you," Miss Elodie smiled. "I hear congratulations are in order."
"How many people know about this?" Abby asked.
"The whole village," Lisa smiled. "As you were being named Lady Abby, King Roland made arrangements for an announcement to be made here in the village."
Abby looked across the square, and saw King Roland smiling at her. Roland then bowed to Abby, before walking off.
"King Roland really thinks the world of you," Miss Elodie said to Abby.
"He's a fine man, and a fine king," Abby observed. "We're all blessed having him."
At that moment, on a makeshift stage erected in the village square, Mayor Napier came forward. He then motioned Queen Miranda to come forward.
"It is rapidly approaching the new year," Mayor Napier announced. "For our countdown, we have this year our own Queen Miranda."
"Thank you," Miranda smiled as the crowd clapped. "Let's get this countdown started, shall we?"
The crowd clapped in approval.
"Ten," Miranda started, "nine ... eight ... seven ... six ... five ... four ... three ... two ... one ... Happy New Year!"
Fireworks went off behind the makeshift stage as the crowd clapped and cheered. It was the beginning of a new year, full of new possibilities.
About an hour later, back at the castle, everybody was preparing for bed. As Abby was getting ready for bed in her room, a knock came at her door.
"Come in," Abby invited.
Abby's door opened, and in walked Dorrie and Candice.
"Dorrie, Candice," Abby smiled. "What may I do for you?"
"There are two people who want to meet you," Dorrie announced.
In a few moments, the ghosts of Donald and Mary Cosmarune appeared out of thin air.
"Sir, ma'am," Abby said in awe as she curtsied.
"You need not curtsy in our presence," Mary smiled. "We're all members of the same house."
"Welcome to House Cosmarune, my dear," Donald said as he kissed Abby's hand. "You're going to make a fine addition to our house."
"I'll do my best to make you proud," Abby promised.
"You already have," Mary happily noted, "ten times over."
"Mary and I just wanted to drop by, and say congratulations," Donald smiled at Abby. "You'll see us from time to time. We live here in spirit, along with Sir Dax and Queen Melinda."
"Thank you," Abby acknowledged, appreciative. "I look forward to seeing you from time to time."
"And we look forward to seeing you," Mary smiled. "You, Dorrie, and Candice should be getting to bed. It's been a busy day."
"Until we meet again," Abby said to Donald and Mary.
"Until we meet again," Donald smiled at Abby.
Dorrie and Candice walked out of Abby's room, happily talking to Donald and Mary as they walked. It was a pleasant sight.
Abby walked over to her window, and looked out at the night sky. The stars were shining bright in the night sky. It was the beginning of a new year ... a year full of promise. Life was truly good.
(End of Chapter 26).
Behind the scenes
In this edition of "Behind the scenes", we have a surprise from Jolly Roger Brat.
Buttercup Bars (a variation on the classic recipe for Trail Mix Bars that Miranda used to make in the village for the Buttercups. This is another recipe Dorrie and Candice have on file in the castle kitchen!).
2 sticks (1 cup) butter, softened.
2 cups firmly packed light brown sugar.
2 eggs.
1/2 cup cold water.
1 teaspoon baking soda.
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg.
1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon.
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour.
1/2 cup golden raisins.
1/2 cup dried cranberries or craisins.
1 cup chocolate chips.
What to Do
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 10-inch by 15-inch rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray. In a large bowl with an electric mixer, cream together butter and brown sugar. Blend in eggs. On low speed, beat in water, then baking soda, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Gradually mix in flour, about a third at a time. Stir in remaining ingredients. Spread the batter in baking sheet, making sure you level it out. Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until firm. Remove pan to a wire rack to cool, then cut into bars.
Meanwhile, a tribute ...
As this chapter was being finished, we learned of the death of actress and director Penny Marshall. One of Penny Marshall's most beloved roles was Laverne DeFazio on the ABC-TV sitcom "Laverne & Shirley". I thought it would be a fitting tribute to Penny Marshall if Dorrie, Candice, and Abby adopted the "Laverne & Shirley" theme song as their own (especially, like Laverne and Shirley, Dorrie, Candice, and Abby are working girls).
Dorrie, Candice, and Abby were walking down a castle hallway heading for a carriage that would take them to the New Year's celebration in the village. The three teen girls loved the annual celebration in the village. It was a happy time for the three of them. It was an especially happy time for Abby, who had just been made an adoptive member of the House of Cosmarune.
"You know what would be perfect?" Dorrie asked Candice and Abby. "Our song!"
"Oh, yes, Dorrie," Candice responded, pleased.
"Then what are we waiting for?" Abby smiled as the three started singing.
(Spoken) "One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight. Schlemiel! Schlimazel! Hasenpfeffer Incorporated." (Sung) "We're gonna do it!"
(Sung) "Give us any chance, we'll take it. Read us any rule, we'll break it. We're gonna make our dreams come true. Doin' it our way."
(Sung) "Nothin's gonna turn us back now. Straight ahead and on the track now. We're gonna make our dreams come true. Doin' it our way."
(Sung) "There is nothing we won't try. Never heard the word impossible. This time there's no stopping us. We're gonna do it."
(Sung) "On your mark, get set, and go now. Got a dream and we just know now. We're gonna make that dream come true. And we'll do it our way, yes our way. Make all our dreams come true. And we'll do it our way, yes our way. Make all our dreams come true. For me and you!"
As Dorrie, Candice, and Abby happily walked to the waiting carriage, Queen Miranda, Violet, and Dawn Murphy watched from a distance.
"It's so nice seeing them happy," Miranda smiled.
"It is, Queen Miranda," Violet happily agreed.
"Our three Musketeers," Dawn said with a smile.
As Miranda, Violet, and Dawn walked out to a carriage of their own, they had a happy conversation. It was a wonderful time to be alive.
Author's notes
Arnan is the same snowy white owl who appeared in the "Sofia the First" episode "Holiday in Enchancia".
Broom: the SkyCruise 1090 is a broom I created for the "Sofia the First" universe (the SkyCruise 1090 is roughly equivalent to Harry Potter's Nimbus 2000). As readers of Chapter 20 of my story "Dorrie: Book Two" will remember, Sofia, Dorrie, Candice, and Timothy each own a SkyCruise 1090, while Lucinda still uses her Raven Catcher which is equal to the SkyCruise 1090.
"By the light of this candle," Roland started, "we wish good tidings on all of Enchancia. Those we've just met, and those we love dearly" - this is the same thing Roland says in the "Sofia the First" episode "Holiday in Enchancia".
Calista would not have been around for Wassailia because she would have been spending the holiday with her mother, Cordelia. Lydia would not have been around for Wassailia because she would have been spending the holiday in Lacorinth with her husband, King Graham. Meanwhile, Tilly would not have been around for Wassailia because she would have been spending the holiday with her husband, Sir Bartleby.
Colette (A.K.A. Lady Colette Cosmarune) is a character that I and Ben10Man created, and is based on Bayonetta from the video game "Bayonetta" (please note that Colette, and Madam Collette of Enchancia Castle, are two different characters who are not related in any way, shape, or form).
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.
Frederick wanting to go to medical school to become a doctor brings "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia" more in line with Chapter 3 of SailorWednesdayMercury's story "From Villager To Princess Book 3".
In this chapter, the giving of gifts to the castle staff was inspired by the Season Two Christmas Special of "Downton Abbey" where the Crawleys carried out a similar ritual with their staff.
Jane, Dragon, and Kippernium are from "Jane and the Dragon". Readers of my story "Dorrie" will remember Dorrie's love of the tales of Jane and Dragon.
Lacarnum Inflamarae: a spell originally from "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone".
Lacarnum Suppressia: an original spell I came up with that nullifies the effects of another spell.
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.
Marie Perkins and Timothy O'Toole are characters created by MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury, and are used in this story with the permission of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.
Middle Earth is from "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings". Readers of my stories "Dorrie" and "Dorrie: Book Two" will remember Candice's interest in Middle Earth.
Midwife: a woman skilled in aiding in the delivery of babies. Readers of my stories "Dorrie" and "Dorrie: Book Two" will remember that Violet is a midwife, and that Dorrie and Candice are training to be midwives.
Mrs. Marcella Greythorn, Lynn Greythorn, and Greythorn's are from Chapter 11 of my story "Witch Tales".
Mudblood (somebody with magic from a non-magical family) is from "Harry Potter". Marlene would have considered Violet a Mudblood since Violet was not born with magical powers, but instead inherited them from Morena in Chapter 37 of my story "Dorrie".
Queen Melinda is a character created by Jolly Roger Brat, and is used in this story with the permission of Jolly Roger Brat.
See Chapter 24 of my story "Dorrie: Book Two" for more on Glenn, Dawn, and Abby's current positions at the castle.
The House of Cosmarune: as readers of "Dorrie" and "Dorrie: Book Two" will remember, the House of Cosmarune is the magical house that Dorrie, Candice, Violet, and Scarlett's Royal Steward (Colette) belong to. The House of Cosmarune was originally created by Skyrimfan for Skyrimfan's stories "Lucinda the First" and "Rise to Power: Queen of Corona". Skyrimfan has given me permission to use the House of Cosmarune in my stories, and I have given Skyrimfan permission to use Dorrie and Candice in "Lucinda the First" and "Rise to Power: Queen of Corona".
The House of Magwin is a reference to the estate featured in my story "New Beginnings".
The scene with Amber, Marie, and the menorah was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.
Disclaimer
"Bayonetta" and everything associated with it © PlatinumGames, Sega, and Nintendo.
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).
"Downton Abbey" and everything associated with it © ITV, Carnival Films, WGBH Boston, and PBS.
"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.
"Jane and the Dragon" and everything associated with it © Martin Baynton, Mike Fallows, Theo Baynton, Nelvana, and Weta Productions.
"Laverne & Shirley" and everything associated with it © Henderson Productions, Miller-Milkis Productions, Miller-Milkis-Boyett Productions, Paramount Television, and CBS Television Distribution.
Lydia is the property of GradGirl2010, and is used in my stories with the permission of GradGirl2010.
Marie Perkins, 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.
"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.
"The Hobbit" and and everything associated with it © Warner Bros Pictures, New Line Cinema, New Line Home Entertainment, Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures, Wingnut Films, The Saul Zaentz Company, and Tolkien Enterprises.
The House of Cosmarune, and everything associated with it, is the property of Skyrimfan, and is used in this story with the permission of Skyrimfan.
"The Lord of the Rings" and everything associated with it © New Line Cinema, New Line Home Entertainment, Wingnut Films, The Saul Zaentz Company, and Tolkien Enterprises.
I only own Abby Cosmarune-Murphy, Candice Cosmarune-Cooper, Colonel Martinsen, Dawn Murphy, Donald Cosmarune, Dorrie Cosmarune-Cooper, Glenn Murphy, Greythorn's, King Graham, King Jonathan, Lisa Elodie, Lynn Greythorn, Marlene, Mary Cosmarune, Mayor Napier, Morena, Mrs. Marcella Greythorn, Mrs. Tweedle, Neila, Prince Everett, Princess Lissa, Queen Mira, the Kingdom of Lacorinth, the red brick one room cottage behind Enchancia Castle, the SkyCruise 1090, and the Village of Wendarby.