Once Upon a Time in Enchancia Chapter 27: A New Year and New Beginnings, a sofia the first fanfic

Once Upon a Time in Enchancia

Welcome to Chapter 27 of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia". Songs in this chapter: "Tsubasa" from "Tsubasa Chronicle", "Cat People (Putting Out The Fire)" by David Bowie, and "Royal Prep" from "Sofia the First: Once Upon a Princess".

Chapter 27: A New Year and New Beginnings

January 1, 1869

It was afternoon at Enchancia Castle. In a hallway with a number of portraits, nine-year-old Marie Perkins was looking at a portrait of a man lighting a menorah when sixteen-year-old Amber walked up.

"What are you looking at Marie?" Amber asked, curious.

"I'm looking at this portrait of a man lighting a menorah," Marie smiled. "It reminds me of my Jewish heritage on my birth mother's side."

"I think it's nice you have such a reminder," Amber smiled back. "I was just about to have some tea. Would you like to join me?"

"I'd like that," Marie happily accepted. "Thank you."

Meanwhile, in Inventor Gwen's workshop, Gwen sat back in a chair thinking of the recently passed Wassailia. As she sat in the chair, she thought back to a few days before Wassailia.

Flashback:

Gwen was in her workshop working on a Wassailia present for Timothy - a bicycle. As Gwen worked, she sang a song.

"Far in the light, I can see it. In every scene of the night. A tiny feather of love."

"Even in the night I see your face, in the dark. So I never lose my way to you. I never close my heart. The light is always there."

"I learned it from Mama when I was ten-years-old ... before she died from an illness," Gwen remembered.

"What are you working on?" Adelaide asked, curious.

"A bicycle," Gwen answered. "I'm making it for Timothy for Wassailia."

"I know he's going to love it," Adelaide responded, pleased. "You and Wallace have become fine parents to Timothy."

"He's a fine young man," Gwen smiled. "Wallace and I love him very much."

"I know," Adelaide acknowledged, pleased. "I'm so glad he has you, Wallace, Amy, and your father in his life."

End of flashback, and back to the present.

Gwen smiled at the pleasant memory. Meanwhile, outside of the castle, fifteen-year-old Abby was walking in the Peppertree Forest. The forest was a wonderful place to spend time in. During the winter, the snow gave the forest a magical feel. As she walked, Abby felt a presence behind her. Abby turned around to see ... Lovisa, the evil witch who had taken over for Neila.

"I'm Lovisa!" Lovisa announced.

"Congratulations," Abby said in a mocking tone. "I'd give you a door prize, but we're fresh out."

"You're an insolent teenager," Lovisa sneered. "I guess your new title has gone to your head."

"I'm the same Abby Murphy I've always been," Abby pointed out. "It's just that I know a good joke when I see one."

"You've got a hell of a lot of nerve!" Lovisa barked.

"What do you want?!" Abby asked, becoming annoyed.

"I want to know what has happened to Marlene," Lovisa requested. "We know she tried to set the castle on fire. Where is she now?"

"Behind bars," Abby answered. "Exactly where the moron deserves to be."

"You will pay for your arrogance!" Lovisa barked in anger as she raised her wand and pointed it at Abby.

"Bring it!" Abby barked back as she raised her wand.

As the two were about to fire on each other, a number of forest animals approached, including a bear, Whiskers the male fox, and Mossy the female swamp creature. The animals started growling at Lovisa as they slowly approached with their teeth bared.

"This is not your fight," Lovisa said, alarmed. "Get back."

The animals continued to close in on Lovisa, who started getting worried. Lovisa then turned to Abby.

"You win this round," Lovisa conceded. "We'll meet again at some point, Lady Abby."

Lovisa waved her wand over her head, and disappeared in a puff of smoke.

"You okay, Abby?" Whiskers asked. Abby could understand and talk to animals because of her Amulet of Asbron.

"I'm fine, Whiskers," Abby smiled. "Thank you for your help."

"Anytime, Abby," Whiskers smiled back. "You've always been a good friend to all of us here in the forest."

"We were all worried that evil woman would harm you," Mossy said, concerned.

"Well, it will take more than some swamp hag to bring me down," Abby joked as she and Mossy hugged.

"Still, this Lovisa character is trouble," Whiskers pointed out.

"Agreed," Abby confirmed. "I should get back to the castle and warn the others."

"We'll accompany you ... just to be on the safe side," Whiskers offered.

"I'd like that," Abby happily accepted. "And, it will give all of us a chance to catch up with each other."

"Now you're talking!" Whiskers said with a smile.

As Abby, Whiskers, Mossy, and the other animals walked back to the castle, they had a nice time catching up with each other. In a little while, they arrived at the front entrance to the castle.

"Thanks for walking me back," Abby said, grateful.

"No problem, Abby," Whiskers smiled. "Say hi to Princess Sofia for me."

"I will," Abby promised as she walked onto the castle grounds, and Whiskers, Mossy, and the others animals departed.

A plan of action

Once Abby was inside the castle, she alerted King Roland to what had happened between her and Lovisa. Roland then summoned fifteen-year-old Sofia, fifteen-year-old Lucinda, Violet, fifteen-year-old Dorrie, and fifteen-year-old Candice to his study where he and Abby were waiting. Roland then explained to Sofia, Lucinda, Violet, Dorrie, and Candice what had happened.

"This Lovisa character is clearly interested in Marlene," Roland pointed out.

"Looks like we're not through with Neila's followers just yet," Lucinda observed.

"They could be planning to free Marlene," Sofia suggested.

"I was thinking the same thing," Roland agreed. "Therefore, I suggest you, Lucinda, Violet, Dorrie, and Candice take Marlene to Cinnibar where Queen Scarlett can provide enhanced security. You can take the royal galleon. I'll alert Admiral Vasquez."

"Understood, Dad," Sofia acknowledged.

"Luckily, it's only Friday," Roland pointed out. "That will give you the weekend to sail to Cinnibar. It would be best, however, if you left early tomorrow morning before the sun comes up. Leaving under the cover of darkness would help cover your departure."

"Yes, of course," Lucinda agreed.

"Good luck to you," Roland wished as Sofia, Lucinda, Violet, Dorrie, and Candice left.

"Abby," Roland started. "I have something to discuss with you."

"Yes, sir," Abby acknowledged.

"This morning, I received a message from the headmistresses of Royal Prep," Roland announced. "They've heard of you becoming Lady Abby of House Cosmarune. Since that now makes you a noble, they are inviting you to attend Royal Prep on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting this upcoming week."

"Me? In Royal Prep?" Abby laughed, taken off guard. "I'm just Abby Murphy."

"There's no just about it," Roland assured Abby. "The headmistresses would really like you to start attending Royal Prep on a part time basis. The bulk of your schooling would be at Hexley Hall, but going to Royal Prep would teach you what you need to know about being noble."

"I appreciate the offer," Abby started. "I just don't know if I'm ready for such a big step."

"You're nervous," Roland gently observed.

"Yes, sir," Abby admitted. "I've been around royalty and nobility before, but only as a maid. I don't know the first thing about going to school with royalty and nobility. What if I make a mistake? What if I don't fit in?"

"Everybody has to start somewhere," Roland smiled as he gently put his hand on Abby's shoulder. "Sofia, Dorrie, Candice, Lucinda, and Jade all had to start Royal Prep from scratch. Look at how well they've turned out. You'll turn out just as well."

"Thank you for your faith in me, sir," Abby admitted, grateful.

At that moment, Queen Miranda walked in.

"I take it you've told Abby the good news?" Miranda asked.

"Yes, I have, Miranda," Roland answered with a smile. "Abby and I were just discussing it."

"And your decision?" Miranda asked Abby, curious.

"I'll do it," Abby announced.

"Good," Miranda happily responded, before turning back to Roland. "Since Abby is going to go to Royal Prep, would now be a good time to tell her?"

"How about I leave that to you?" Roland suggested.

"Tell me what, King Roland, Queen Miranda?" Abby asked, interested.

"Roland and I want to give you a good start," Miranda started. "We've instructed Madam Collette to make you two gowns befitting a teenage girl of your noble status."

"I appreciate that," Abby started, "but I don't want to be a bother."

"It's no bother," Roland reassured Abby. "Miranda and I really want to do this for you."

"If you'll report to Madam Collette's studio for a fitting, we can get the process started," Miranda smiled.

"Thank you, sir, ma'am," Abby acknowledged, pleased.

"You're welcome, Abby," Roland said, pleased.

"Madam Collette is waiting for you," Miranda added.

"Then I'll report there immediately," Abby happily acknowledged as she left. "Again, thank you."

"You're welcome, Abby," Miranda smiled as Abby left.

Early Saturday afternoon

The royal galleon was sailing on open waters. Sofia, Lucinda, and Dorrie were standing on deck when Violet walked up.

"I've been in contact with Scarlett," Violet announced. "She wants us to meet her at a point halfway between Enchancia and Cinnibar. I've already informed Admiral Vasquez to change course."

"How did you contact Scarlett?" Lucinda asked, curious.

"Well, Princess Lucinda," Violet started, "I have my own amulet - the Amulet of Allegiance."

Violet waved her hand over her neck area, and an amulet with a ruby red gem stone became visible around Violet's neck.

"Wow!" Lucinda exclaimed, impressed. "Then you work for Scarlett, too?"

"Oh, yes," Violet smiled. "Meanwhile, we'll be arriving at our destination in a little bit. King Bernard has given his blessing for us to dock."

"Then we're going to ... ?" Sofia happily asked.

"Yes, Princess Sofia," Violet confirmed.

"Where's Candice?" Lucinda inquired, curious.

"Apparently, Marlene has been acting up," Violet explained. "Candice is down explaining the facts of life to her."

In a locked stateroom in the lower part of the galleon, Candice and Marlene were having a heated discussion.

"Why not just leave me alone, you traitorous dog!" Marlene barked at Candice, before spitting in Candice's face.

"Yes, you'd enjoy that, wouldn't you?" Marlene suggested with a wicked smile.

"I said I was good," Candice responded. "I didn't say I was dead. Mind your manners and this trip will go easily for you. Continue to be a disruptive passenger, and I swear I'll show you abilities I've kept to myself up to now. Want to give it a go?"

Marlene backed off as she got the message.

"Guard," Candice called out as the guard on the other side of the door unlocked the door, opened it, and let Candice leave. The guard then closed and locked the door, leaving Marlene inside. In a few moments, Candice stepped onto the deck of the galleon as a bell rang out.

"Land ho!" a sailor called out.

Sofia, Lucinda, Violet, Dorrie, and Candice walked up to the ship's wheel where Admiral Vasquez was piloting the galleon.

"There it is," Vasquez pointed out. "The Kingdom of Castlehaven."

"Excellent," Sofia smiled. "That's where Princess Nella lives."

"I've heard of Castlehaven," Candice remarked. "I've never had a chance to visit it."

"You'll like it, Candice," Sofia happily responded. "A nice place."

As the galleon headed toward land, unknown to those aboard, they were being watched from a distance ... by Lovisa and many of her witches who were flying brooms. Lovisa motioned her witches to move forward, as a song started playing in Lovisa's head.

"See these eyes so green. I can stare for a thousand years. Colder than the moon. Well it's been so long. And I've been putting out fire ... with gasoline."

"See these eyes so red. Red like jungle burning bright. Those who feel me near. Pull the blinds and change their minds. It's been so long."

"Still this pulsing night. A plague I call a heartbeat. Just be still with me. You wouldn't believe what I've been through. You've been so long. Well it's been so long. And I've been putting out the fire with gasoline. Putting out the fire with gasoline."

"See these tears so blue. An ageless heart that can never mend. These tears can never dry. A judgment made can never bend. See these eyes so green. I can stare for a thousand years. Just be still with me. You wouldn't believe what I've been through."

"You've been so long. Well it's been so long. And I've been putting out the fire with gasoline. Putting out fire ... with gasoline."

"It's been so long. Been so long. Well it's been so long. Been so long. I've been putting out fire. Been so long ..."

In a few minutes, the galleon docked at a country port in Castlehaven. Waiting for them was Scarlett, Faith, Colette, Simon, Hematite, Constance, and Zahida. Also waiting on the dock was a black man (King Bernard), a white skinned woman (Queen Nola), and their seven-year-old daughter, Norma.

"King Bernard, Queen Nola," Violet greeted as she curtsied. "Thank you for allowing us a safe port."

"You are most welcome, Lady Violet," Bernard smiled.

"You already know Princess Sofia," Violet started. "This is Princess Lucinda, and my daughters - Lady Dorrie, and Lady Candice."

"A pleasure to see you again, Sofia," Bernard greeted, before turning to Lucinda, Dorrie, and Candice. "And it's a pleasure to meet three fine young ladies."

Lucinda, Dorrie, and Candice curtsied in acknowledgment.

"Can you really make an island float?" Norma asked Lucinda in awe.

"The word appears to have gotten out," Candice smiled at Lucinda.

"I'm still learning, young princess," Lucinda smiled at Norma. "I've been told I'm getting quite good at it."

"Where's Nella?" Sofia asked Bernard.

"She's off practicing with our enlarged knight force," Bernard explained.

At that moment, Lovisa and her witches appeared out of nowhere, and landed.

"Guards!" Scarlett ordered. "Get King Bernard, Queen Nola, and Princess Norma aboard the galleon. We'll take care of this garbage!"

The guards from the galleon quickly hustled Bernard, Nola, and Norma aboard the galleon. Scarlett and her forces backed themselves into a circle as the group of witches surrounded them and they all bared their weapons with a glare outwards as Lovisa smirked.

"This is your end, Scarlett Warrior," Lovisa boasted. "Look at the size of my army compared to yours. You don't stand a chance."

"It's true," Scarlett admitted. "You have us surrounded. But it's not the size of the dog in the fight. It's the size of the fight in the dog. No one gets inside our circle!"

"No one gets inside!" Scarlett's royal steward, Colette, shouted.

"No one gets inside!" Hematite shouted.

"No one gets inside!" Faith shouted.

"No one gets inside!" Lucinda shouted.

"No one gets inside!" Sofia shouted.

"No one gets inside!" Zahida shouted.

"No one gets inside!" Constance shouted.

"No one gets inside!" Simon shouted.

"No one gets inside!" Violet shouted.

"No ... one ... gets ... inside!" Scarlett insisted as she stood her ground.

"I've always wanted to do that," Candice smiled at Dorrie.

"Me, too ... ever since I started taking Middle Earth Studies this semester," Dorrie smiled back. "After all, you peaked my interest in the subject."

"Let's do this!" Lovisa ordered as her forces started to move forward. At that same moment, a fifteen-year-old Princess Nella riding her unicorn Trinket, a fifteen-year-old Sir Garrett riding his horse Clod, and dozens of knights showed up.

"Awkward!" Candice joked at Lovisa.

As Nella, Garrett, and the knights rushed the dock, Scarlett and company rushed Lovisa and her forces. Lovisa and her forces were unprepared for such a show of force. In a few moments, with Lovisa's forces on one side, and the knights and Scarlett and company on the other side, hand to hand fighting broke out. It quickly developed into a fierce battle.

As the battle raged on and around the dock, Lovisa broke away from the fighting, and managed to get aboard the galleon. Candice noticed what Lovisa was up to, and quickly followed. Below decks inside the galleon, Candice caught up with Lovisa, and the two started firing their wands at each other. The two moved around the galleon, exchanging wand fire as they traveled. As the two fought, Queen Nola appeared. Lovisa grabbed Nola, and held her wand at Nola's throat.

"I want Marlene freed, or I kill Queen Nola!" Lovisa demanded. "But, before that, drop your wand!"

Candice had no choice but to drop her wand.

"Good!" Lovisa said with an evil smile. "The great Lady Candice is forced to bow to my demand!"

Candice looked at Nola with sadness in her eyes. "I'm so sorry for what I am about to do. This is a power I was hoping would never see the light of day."

"What are you talking about you silly girl?!" Lovisa demanded to know.

Candice raised her hand in Lovisa's direction. Using the power of her mind, Candice concentrated on Lovisa's throat. In a few moments, Lovisa started having trouble breathing.

"What's ... happening?" Lovisa asked in a choking voice.

"Using my mind to choke you," Candice explained.

Lovisa grabbed her throat, as Nola broke free. With each passing moment, Lovisa found it harder and harder to breathe.

"Did you think you had seen every power I have?" Candice asked the choking Lovisa. "Did it ever occur to you and yours that I might be holding things in reserve for a rainy day?"

Lovisa dropped to her knees, continuing to choke, as Candice stood over her, continuing to use her mind power against Lovisa. As Candice concentrated, a woman's voice came into Candice's mind.

"Candice," the woman's voice gently started. It was the voice of Mary Cosmarune. "Candice. Release her, please. You're better than this."

Candice released her mind grip on Lovisa, while Lovisa fell onto her hands and knees, fighting to regain her breath.

"You ... tried ... to kill me ... with ... your ... mind," Lovisa gasped.

"I have no idea what you are talking about," Nola said to Lovisa. "You appear to have been eating while you were fighting Lady Candice. No wonder you started choking."

"What?!" Lovisa said in disbelief as two guards raced up.

"Take her away," Candice ordered as the two guards dragged Lovisa off. "I could ask why?" Candice asked Nola.

"I am in your debt, Lady Candice," Nola gently answered as she picked up Candice's wand, and handed it back to Candice. "No one else need know about the ability you just demonstrated. You have an ally in me. If you ever need anything, all you need to do is ask."

"Most kind, Queen Nola," Candice said, grateful. "Thank you."

"You're welcome," Nola smiled. "It's the least I can do for somebody who has our backs. You're a good person. Always remember that."

Nola and Candice walked up to the deck of the galleon. Lovisa's forces, having been overwhelmed, had fled in defeat. The two guards brought Lovisa forward.

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

"We'll put her on trial along with Marlene," Candice instructed.

Suddenly, three of Lovisa's witches appeared in a puff of smoke, and started firing at Candice, Nola, and the two guards. As the four ducked for cover, the three witches raced over to Lovisa. As the three witches waved their wands over their heads and Lovisa's head, Lovisa turned to Candice.

"Monster!" Lovisa barked at Candice. "MONSTER!"

The three witches and Lovisa then disappeared in a puff of smoke as Scarlett and company approached.

"What was that all about?" Lucinda asked, curious.

"Lovisa's a sore loser," Nola responded as Violet and Dorrie walked up to Candice.

"Are you all right, sweetheart?" Violet wanted to know.

"I'm fine, Mom," Candice answered. "But, I am going to need to talk to you and Dorrie ... in private."

"Of course," Violet agreed as she, Candice, and Dorrie walked to an isolated area of the deck.

As Scarlett and company talked among themselves, Sofia watched from a distance as Candice, Violet, and Dorrie had a private conversation. In a short while, Violet and Dorrie hugged Candice in a show of support. Sofia didn't know what had been discussed. Sofia only knew that Violet and Dorrie were showing their support for Candice. Sofia smiled at the touching scene. The power of family was a wonderful thing to behold.

"Is it over?" King Bernard asked as he and Princess Norma stepped out onto the deck.

"Yes," Scarlett smiled, "thanks to Princess Nella, Sir Garrett, and the rest of your brave knights."

Nola walked up to Bernard, and whispered in his ear. Bernard then motioned Candice to come over.

"Lady Candice," Bernard started, "I've been told you protected my wife during the heat of battle. Please kneel so I may properly reward you."

Candice kneeled, as Bernard raised his sword, and gently rested the blade on Candice's shoulder.

"For your service to my wife, I hereby name you a knight of Castlehaven with all the rights associated with that title," Bernard announced. "Arise, Lady Candice, Knight of Castlehaven."

As Candice rose to her feet, everybody on deck clapped in Candice's honor.

"Now that you're a knight of Castlehaven, you'll have to visit our kingdom when you get some free time," Nella smiled at Candice. "In fact, all of you should visit Castlehaven. You'll be honored guests."

"I'll discuss it with my father, King Roland," Sofia agreed.

"Indeed," Scarlett smiled. "Roland and I can get together, and arrange a date for such a visit."

"Then, it's settled," Bernard happily acknowledged. "I know all of you have to be getting to Cinnibar. But, at least let me provide you with fresh provisions to see you on your trip."

"Thank you, King Bernard," Violet acknowledged.

"If I may, I'd like to talk to Lady Candice as we wait," Bernard requested.

"Of course," Violet agreed.

Bernard and Candice strolled around the deck, as Candice showed Bernard the royal galleon. At one point, Bernard turned to Candice.

"Do you know anything about bowling, Lady Candice?" Bernard asked, hopeful.

"Bowling?" Candice smiled. "I love bowling!"

"Excellent!" Bernard exclaimed in glee. "When you visit Castlehaven, you and I will have to have a game or two."

"I'd enjoy that, King Bernard," Candice accepted, pleased.

January 5, 1869

It was a Tuesday morning at Enchancia Castle. In King Roland's study, Roland was reading a report that had arrived the night before from Cinnibar. Marlene's trial by a magical tribunal had taken place a day earlier. It had been a short trial by magical tribunal standards, considering there was overwhelming evidence of Marlene trying to burn down Enchancia Castle. After deliberating, the magical tribunal found Marlene guilty, and sentenced her to imprisonment in Azkaban. With the tribunal's business concluded, Sofia, Lucinda, Violet, Dorrie, and Candice were on their way back to Enchancia aboard the royal galleon.

Meanwhile, at Royal Prep, fifteen-year-old Abby arrived aboard a flying carriage that had been arranged for by Roland. The flying carriage landed in front of the school, and Abby climbed off of the carriage ... wearing a light blue gown. Abby looked at the school for a few moments, nervous. As she looked at the school, Abby heard a woman's voice from above her.

"Lady Abby!" the voice cheerfully called out.

"Up here, dear," another woman's voice happily called out.

Abby looked up to see Miss Flora, Miss Fauna, and Miss Merryweather floating above her.

"Welcome to the Royal Preparatory Academy," Miss Flora smiled. "I'm Flora. And this is Fauna and this is ..."

"... Merryweather," Miss Merryweather cut in. "We're the headmistresses ..."

"... of Royal Prep," Miss Flora continued.

"We're so excited you're here," Miss Fauna happily greeted Abby. "We're always looking for a few good ladies."

"Thank you for inviting me to attend Royal Prep," Abby responded, pleased.

"Oh, you're very welcome," Miss Flora smiled as she took Abby's hand, and started singing. "When someone new enrolls here at good ol' Royal Prep; They're at that great beginning; They're taking that first step."

"Your lessons will commence here," Miss Fauna continued, "once you step through this door."

"So why not come and join us," Merryweather invited as she hustled Abby into the school, "and see what lies in store?"

The next few minutes were a blur for Abby. Singing. Dancing. Suits of armor that moved by themselves. More singing. More dancing. Luckily, Dorrie and Candice had warned Abby in advance about what to expect the first few minutes at Royal Prep, so Abby was somewhat prepared. Before Abby knew it, the song and dance number was coming to a close.

"... at good ol' RPA. RPA. It's step by step. With wisdom, grace, and pep. At Royal Prep!"

"It's time for your first class, my dear," Miss Flora gently said as she led Abby down a hall and into a classroom. As Flora and Abby walked into the classroom, Abby was relieved to see the teacher was somebody she knew ... Miss Elodie.

"Ah!" Miss Elodie smiled. "Lady Abby. Welcome. Please, take a seat."

Abby looked around the classroom, and was relieved to see a familiar face in sixteen-year-old Jade who was happily waving at Abby to come over and sit next to her.

"Commoners," sixteen-year-old Princess Deidre of Hythoria said in disgust of Jade and Abby.

"And proud of it," Jade smiled at Deidre as Abby sat down. Jade then turned to Abby. "It's so good to have you here, Abby. Not only do we go to school together at Hexley Hall, but we now also go to school together here at Royal Prep. And pay no mind to Princess Sourpuss over there. She's permanently set in acid rain mode."

The class laughed at Jade's joke, as Deidre turned away, annoyed.

"Class," Miss Elodie started as she stepped forward, "today we shall have a refresher in how to bow and curtsy. It's always good to keep one's skills sharp. In fact, how about we start with our new student, Lady Abby?"

"Oh, this ought to be good," Deidre whispered to one of her friends. "The commoner maid is going to demonstrate how to curtsy."

"Please step onto the platform, and show us what you have," Miss Elodie said to Abby.

"Yes, Miss Elodie," Abby acknowledged as she nervously walked onto the platform. Abby then prepared herself, and performed ... a perfect curtsy. Everybody clapped, impressed with Abby.

"I realize some of you were expecting Lady Abby to mess this up," Miss Elodie pointed out. "As you can see, Lady Abby is well versed in the social graces. Being a maid in a royal household means one is schooled in the same social graces we are. And, you should know that Lady Abby just isn't any maid. She is also the inventory manager at Enchancia Castle, a position usually staffed by an adult. The fact that King Roland assigned Lady Abby to such a high profile position shows how much faith he has in her."

The class smiled in awe at the revelation, as Deidre and her friend rolled their eyes, unimpressed.

"Got ya!" Miss Elodie thought to herself in glee as she looked at Deidre and her friend.

Each student took a turn up on the platform. In a while, it was time for the class to end. As Abby and Jade walked out of the classroom, a number of students walked with them, asking Abby all kinds of questions about her life at Enchancia Castle. Everybody asking questions were truly interested in getting to know Abby better, and were becoming very impressed with Abby.

"You're in," Jade happily whispered to Abby. "Congratulations."

Abby smiled at Jade, happy at how everything had turned out.

January 7, 1869

It was Thursday morning at Enchancia Castle. Sofia, Lucinda, Violet, Dorrie, and Candice had returned to the castle the night before. Now, all the school age kids were away attending school for the day ... all except Candice. She had been called to King Roland's study. She would attend school after her meeting with Roland..

As Candice waited in Roland's study, Roland walked in.

"Ah, good," Roland smiled. "You're here. Please, sit down, Candice."

"Thank you, sir," Candice acknowledged as she took a seat.

"The reason I've called you here is because Colonel Martinsen has brought some interesting crystal ball chatter to my attention," Roland announced. "It turns out that some in Lovisa's camp are spreading a wild rumor about you."

"About ... me?" Candice gulped, nervous.

"You'll love this," Roland smiled. "Apparently, some in Lovisa's camp are convinced you have some kind of special power that allows you to mentally choke people."

"Ha, ha ... ha," Candice laughed, nervously.

"All Colonel Martinsen and I can think is they must be high on something," Roland laughed, before turning serious. "And, on the record, that's our official position."

"Sir?" Candice asked, not knowing what to think, as Roland walked over, and gently placed his hand on Candice's shoulder.

"Candice," Roland gently started, "off the record, I've always thought there was something you were keeping to yourself."

"Sir, I'll be packed and out of here as soon as possible," Candice offered. "You don't want somebody with such an ability being here in the castle."

"Candice, you misunderstand me," Roland gently continued. "I'm on your side. You've never harmed anybody here in the castle, or in the village. There's no need for you to go anywhere. You have my complete trust. The only reason you used your ability was to protect Queen Nola. You had no other choice."

"Then you know what happened?" Candice wanted to know.

"I asked Violet, figuring you would have confided in her," Roland answered. "After convincing her that I was on your side, she told me what you told her and Dorrie on the royal galleon. Don't be mad at her. We all love you very much."

"How can I be mad at her?" Candice smiled. "She's my mother, and I love her very much."

"I know," Roland smiled back. "On the record, this rumor will be treated as just that ... a rumor, created by obviously unbalanced minds looking for payback for getting a good old fashioned butt whipping in Castlehaven."

"Most kind, sir," Candice said, grateful. "But, I could ask why?"

"We both remember when Lydia lived here in the castle," Roland started. "We both remember when her Inheritor powers became public knowledge, and the hell she faced from some circles because of it. I won't have you going through the same hell, Candice."

"Thank you, sir," Candice said with tears of happiness in her eyes. Roland and Candice then hugged for a few moments. It was the sign of a deep friendship between the two of them.

"Take the rest of the morning off," Roland said to Candice. "You can attend school after lunch."

"Yes, sir," Candice acknowledged. "Thank you, sir."

"No, thank you," Roland smiled. "Thank you for being one of the most loyal citizens this kingdom has ever known. We are truly blessed having you here. Now go, and enjoy the morning."

As Candice walked out of Roland's study, Violet was waiting out in the hallway.

"I'm sorry, Candice," Violet apologized. "But, I felt King Roland had a right to know. He had already figured it out, anyway."

"There's nothing to forgive, Mom," Candice smiled as she hugged Violet. "On the record, King Roland will insist it is nothing but a wild rumor created by unbalanced minds wanting revenge for what happened in Castlehaven. Off the record, I have his complete trust. There's nothing to worry about."

"I've always said King Roland was a kind and just man," Violet smiled back. "So, you off to school, then?"

"King Roland has given me the morning off," Candice announced. "I'll go to school after lunch. I could just sit around for the morning, but you know that's not me. Anything you need help with?"

"Well, I was going to tidy up the throne room a bit," Violet revealed. "I could always use your help."

"Then let's get going," Candice happily agreed as they walked down the hallway, having a pleasant conversation as they walked along.

Unknown to Violet and Candice, Roland watched them from the doorway of his study. He smiled as Violet and Candice happily walked together. It was a touching scene. Everything was going to be all right.

(End of Chapter 27).

Behind the scenes

In this edition of "Behind the scenes", we'll look at a few things that you'll find of interest.

First of all, we'll look at Candice's new ability.

Candice's ability to mentally choke an enemy is much like Darth Vader's ability in "Star Wars". It is something Candice inherited from Maleficent when Maleficent created Candice. Unlike Darth Vader, who uses the dark side of The Force, Candice's ability comes from dark magic power that she inherited from Maleficent. This is an ability for Candice I've been toying with using for a while now (I brought it into play with this chapter because this chapter's plot was the perfect way to bring it into the light of day).

Like other very dark magic, Candice is uncomfortable with using her choking ability because 1) it is very dark magic that Candice would rather not let see the light of day, and 2) Candice has an internal fear that she might get hooked on using such very dark magic (in this chapter, it was the voice of Mary Cosmarune, along with the goodness in Candice, that prevented Candice from going too far).

While Candice's choking ability will be kept a secret to the outside world, I am toying with the idea of Candice becoming a minder (like Matilda Honey and Sofia are). Being a minder would allow Candice to move things with her mind (see Chapters 12 and 13 of my story "Dorrie" for more about Matilda and Sofia's abilities).

Second of all, both epear96 and Brigade701 suggested that I provide a bit of detail about Mossy and Whiskers for those who might not be familiar with the two characters.

Mossy, a female swamp creature, was introduced in the "Sofia the First" episode "Buttercup Amber". For years, Mossy was considered nothing but a legend, and was reported to live in an area of the Peppertree Forest known as Swamp Rock Hill. Mossy was discovered by Sofia's Buttercup troop. Thanks to the fact that Mossy spoke a simple form of English, Sofia and the troop were able to make friends with Mossy. At one point, Mossy revealed that she was terribly frightened of humans because they always chased her. Sofia and her troop convinced Mossy not all humans were like that. When Sofia and her troop departed, Mossy happily bid them goodbye, knowing that when they met again, they would meet as friends.

Whiskers, a male fox, was introduced in the "Sofia the First" episode "Winter's Gift". Before Sofia's rabbit, Clover, moved to the castle, Whiskers and Clover were best friends. When Sofia and Clover go into the forest looking for ice lilies, Clover introduces Sofia to Whiskers. It turns out that Whiskers is the closest thing the forest has to an unofficial mayor. Whiskers has access to all kinds of information provided to him by the animals of the forest. Whiskers used his information sources to find some ice lilies for Sofia and Clover. On their way to get the ice lilies, Sofia, Clover, and Whiskers come across a fawn named Winter who has been cursed with the ability to turn anything she touches into ice. Sofia manages to convince a local witch to lift the curse, with Winter being able to live a normal life once again. At the end of the episode, Whiskers uses his connections to summon a flying reindeer pulling a sleigh. The flying reindeer and sleigh then take Sofia and Clover home to Enchancia Castle.

Meanwhile, some detail about Abby and her trips to the Peppertree Forest.

While this chapter marks the first time we see Abby spending some of her free time enjoying the forest, she has been doing so since her arrival at Enchancia Castle. Once she received the Amulet of Asbron from the Scarlett Warrior (in Chapter 23 of my story "Dorrie: Book Two"), she was able to talk to the animals in the forest. Among the first animals she befriended was Whiskers the male fox, who started hanging around her once he determined Abby was friendly. Abby also befriended Mossy, a female swamp creature who lived in an area of the Peppertree Forest known as Swamp Rock Hill. Abby came across Mossy before the events in the "Sofia the First" episode "Buttercup Amber". Mossy was very afraid of humans, due to humans always chasing her, and it took a while for Abby to win Mossy's trust. Once Abby had earned Mossy's trust, the two became fast friends, with Mossy finally being able to trust a human.

Finally, an interesting observation by MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

As the two of us were communicating back and forth about this chapter, MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury commented that Belle (the Emma Watson version from the 2017 movie "Beauty and the Beast") is a lot like Gwen in "Sofia the First". Both are inventors, and both lost their mothers at an early age.

Author's notes

Adelaide Gray-West, Hematite, Marie Perkins, Timothy O'Toole, and Zahida are characters created by MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury, and are used in this story with the permission of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

Azkaban is from "Harry Potter".

"Can you really make an island float?" Norma asked Lucinda in awe - this is a reference to Lucinda's birth mother in the "Sofia the First" episode "Mom's the Word".

Castlehaven, Clod, King Bernard (A.K.A. King Dad), Princess Nella, Princess Norma, Queen Nola (A.K.A. Queen Mom), Sir Garrett, and Trinket are from "Nella the Princess Knight". In regard to King Bernard and Queen Nola, I wanted Nella's parents to be referred to as something more than King Dad and Queen Mom, so I came up with the names of Bernard and Nola for them.

"Do you know anything about bowling, Lady Candice?" Bernard asked, hopeful - this simply wouldn't be King Bernard (A.K.A. King Dad) without his love for bowling, as any fan of "Nella the Princess Knight" will tell you.

Dorrie and Candice magically produced their scepters, and raised them. "You ... shall not ... pass!" Dorrie and Candice shouted as they banged their scepters on the dock, producing a bright magical flash. "I've always wanted to do that," Candice smiled at Dorrie. "Me, too ... ever since I started taking Middle Earth Studies this semester," Dorrie smiled back. "After all, you peaked my interest in the subject" - Dorrie and Candice banging their scepters on the dock was inspired by Gandalf's banging of his staff in "The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring". "I've always wanted to do that" was inspired by Professor McGonagall's glee in awakening the statues in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2". And, I thought it was time for Dorrie to follow in Candice's footsteps and take Middle Earth Studies as well.

Faith is an earlier version of Faith seen in the "Torchwood" episodes "Dead Man Walking" and "Fragments".

For more about Abby's Amulet of Asbron, see Chapter 23 of my story "Dorrie: Book Two".

For more about Violet's Amulet of Allegiance, see Chapter 5 of my story "The Newest Princess".

"Give me a reason. I beg you!" Candice said in cool anger as she raised her wand, and pointed it at Marlene's face. "I could do it, you know. But why deny the Dementors? They're so longing to see somebody like you. Do I detect a flicker of fear? Oh, yes. A Dementor's Kiss. One can only imagine what that must be like to endure. It's said to be nearly unbearable to witness, but I'll do my best" - this is almost a word for word copy of what Snape said to Sirius in "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban". I simply changed "They're so longing to see you" to "They're so longing to see somebody like you" to make the exchange better fit with this chapter.

Having Gwen sing "Tsubasa" from "Tsubasa Chronicle" was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

Having Marie look at the portrait of a man lighting a menorah, and telling Amber what it meant to her, was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

Having the ghost of Timothy's birth mother appear to Gwen was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

"I know," Adelaide acknowledged, pleased. "I'm so glad he has you, Wallace, Amy, and your father in his life" - your father refers to Chef Andre.

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 Inheritor powers, see GradGirl2010's stories "My Sister's Keeper", "My Sister's Teacher", and "My Sister's Acceptance".

Maleficent, as mentioned in this chapter, is the Maleficent of old from "Sleeping Beauty". In regard to Maleficent, readers of my stories might recall that Maleficent of the Moors is mentioned in Chapter 2 of my story "A Royal Rift". To clear things up, we'll consider Maleficent from "Sleeping Beauty", and Maleficent of the Moors from "Maleficent", to be two separate characters. To further clear things up, Maleficent in my stories is mostly the "Sleeping Beauty" version, but also has some elements of Maleficent from "Disney Descendants" added in (such as Maleficent with a child).

Matilda Honey is inspired by Matilda from the "Matilda" children's book and movie. The version of Matilda in my stories has retained her powers, and currently attends Hexley Hall as a student. Matilda's adopted mother is Jennifer Honey, who teaches at the local school in Dunwitty.

Middle Earth is from "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings".

"Monster!" Lovisa barked at Candice. "MONSTER!" - this was inspired by the scene in "Frozen" where the Duke of Weselton shouted the same thing at Queen Elsa.

Mossy the female swamp creature is from the "Sofia the First" episode "Buttercup Amber".

"Now there's a song I haven't sung to Timothy in a good long time! How do you know it?" a woman's voice came from behind Gwen. Gwen looked to see the ghost of Timothy's birth mother, Adelaide Gray-West, standing there smiling. "I learned it from Mama when I was ten-years-old ... before she died from an illness," Gwen remembered - having Gwen recall that she heard her mother singing the song, as well as Gwen recalling her mother's death, was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

Simon (the Royal Constable of Cinnibar) is an original character created by Ben10Man for this story.

The bear that joins with the other animals to protect Abby is the same bear who appeared in the "Sofia the First" episode "Holiday in Enchancia".

The Dementors, and Dementor's Kiss, are from "Harry Potter".

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 Kingdom of Cinnibar is a kingdom created by Ben10Man, and is used in my stories with permission from Ben10Man.

The Scarlett Warrior (A.K.A. Scarlett) (A.K.A. Queen Scarlett) (A.K.A. Queen Scarlett Katherine Felchenerow) is a character created by Ben10Man, and is used in my stories with permission from Ben10Man. Meanwhile, the character of 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).

"This is your end, Scarlett Warrior," Lovisa boasted. "Look at the size of my army compared to yours. You don't stand a chance." "It's true," Scarlett admitted. "You have us surrounded. But it's not the size of the dog in the fight. It's the size of the fight in the dog. No one gets inside our circle!" "No one gets inside!" Scarlett's royal steward, Colette, shouted. "No one gets inside!" Hematite shouted. "No one gets inside!" Faith shouted. "No one gets inside!" Lucinda shouted. "No one gets inside!" Sofia shouted. "No one gets inside!" Zahida shouted. "No one gets inside!" Constance shouted. "No one gets inside!" Simon shouted. "No one gets inside!" Violet shouted - this scene was the idea of Ben10Man (who also provided the dialog for this scene).

Whiskers the male fox is from the "Sofia the First" episode "Winter's Gift".

Disclaimer

Adelaide Gray-West, Hematite, Marie Perkins, Timothy O'Toole, Zahida, 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.

"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.

"Nella the Princess Knight" and everything associated with it © Christine Ricci, Brown Bag Films, Channel 5, and Nick Jr.

"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.

"Tsubasa Chronicle" and the original Manga it is based on, "Tsubasa: Reservoir Chronicle", and everything associated with them © Clamp, Weekly Shōnen Magazine, Madman Entertainment, Funimation Entertainment, and Revelation Films.

"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.

The Scarlett Warrior and the other original ideas from Ben10Man are the property of Ben10Man, and are used in my stories with the permission of Ben10Man.

I only own Abby Cosmarune-Murphy, Candice Cosmarune-Cooper, Colonel Martinsen, Constance, Dorrie Cosmarune-Cooper, Lovisa, Marlene, Mary Cosmarune, Neila, Princess Deidre, the Amulet of Allegiance, the Amulet of Asbron, and the Kingdom of Hythoria.