Once Upon a Time in Enchancia Chapter 31: No Place Like Home, a sofia the first fanfic

Once Upon a Time in Enchancia

Welcome to Chapter 31 of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia". Song in this chapter: "Happy Birthday" (traditional).

Chapter 31: No Place Like Home

February 6, 1869

It was a very cold Saturday morning on the grounds of Enchancia Castle as Abby Murphy was walking out a rear door of the castle. Her friend Valentina Androcasia was along.

"So, what is on your plate today Abby?" Valentina asked her.

"Sometime since that day when we helped Candice rescue all those cats from whatever that creature was, I've noticed a couple cats out along the grounds that look like two of the cats we rescued," Abby explained to her friend.

"There were several times since then I noticed a black cat near our home and a couple times I thought Inky had gotten outside since, well, my dad and I have tried to keep him inside since that day," Valentina reported. "Turned out the cat wasn't him. I'm wondering if the other cat might have been one of the other cats from the cave."

"I want to check on the two cats to make sure they are all right," Abby started. "I'd bring them inside the castle except with King Roland being allergic to cats it wouldn't work. The only reason Candice's cat Creamy as you know is allowed in was because of that potion that was spilled on him that day at Hexley Hall. My parents and I had been discussing it and they agreed that if we could get more of that potion, they might let me keep one of the cats."

Before long they arrived in a far corner of the garden where among some shrubbery a cream and black cat was walking shivering from the cold.

"Oh, Hi Abby," The cat greeted her.

"Hi Luna. Are you managing to keep warm?"

"Not really. Sure I have a nice thick fur coat, but it doesn't do much to keep me warm," Luna explained. "Besides, moving around in the snow especially when it gets deep is not the easiest thing. You humans have it easier with your longer legs."

"Believe me Luna, I'd love to let you inside the castle where it's warm except King Roland is allergic to cats," Abby apologized.

"Yet Creamy is allowed to live inside the castle. Talk about unfair," Luna pointed out.

"Creamy was rid of his cat allergens by a potion invented by a professor at Hexley Hall back a hundred years ago," Abby informed Luna. "In order for you to live inside the castle you would need to be treated with the same potion."

"Do you think you could possibly make the necessary arrangements before I freeze to death?" Luna requested.

"I'll see what I can do," Abby promised her as they noticed what looked like a section of snow move. Before long a head appeared, and it turned out to be a white cat with black paws.

"Oh, Hi Maverick," Abby greeted. "I was checking on Luna and I was planning to go looking for you when I finished."

"Hey Abby," Maverick greeted back. He then turned towards Valentina. "You're what's his name Inky's owner, aren't you?"

"Yes, my name is Valentina. My dad is King Roland's lawyer."

"Nice to meet you," Maverick smiled. "How is Inky doing these days?"

"He's doing great. I can let him know you asked about him. For a while he had nightmares about when he was captured. His worst one had that creature eating him," Valentina reported.

"No thanks - I'd rather not end up as some crazy creature's dinner," Maverick stated. "Though with as cold as it is right now even that would be preferable to this."

"Maverick, until other arrangements can be made how would you and Luna like it if me and Valentina were to vanish some of the snow around your homes," Abby offered.

"That Abby would be lovely. It would be even better if you could make it so my home was a little warmer," Luna accepted.

"I can put a warming charm on it no problem," Abby informed Luna. After a few minutes Abby had the snow vanished in a ten-foot radius around Luna's home and a heating charm in place. Valentina meanwhile vanished a four-foot-wide path between there and where Maverick lived behind the stables. When Abby caught up they quickly vanished the snow around Maverick's home and placed a heating charm there. A pinkish haired horse a little larger than Minimus stuck her hear out a window.

"Hey, Abby, how is it going?"

"Good. I was making sure Maverick could have a warm place to live. He and Luna were getting cold."

"That's nice of you," the horse acknowledged.

"How is stable life treating you Centaria?"

"It's great. I kind of miss Wildwing Valley but Mazzimo wanted me here to be company for Minimus, only Minimus is, well, playing hard to get," Centaria reported.

"Give him time. From what Sofia told me Minimus isn't exactly full of self-confidence. In the meantime, I'm going to go over to Candice's workshop and see her about something," Abby said as she turned towards the castle with Valentina following her. Once inside the two girls headed for the area where Candice and her sister Dorrie had their workshop. By chance Candice was working inside on some work for school.

"Abby, Valentina. I'm surprised you didn't go into Dunwitty. Didn't Baileywick give you the day off?"

"Of course he did Candice, but I was visiting Luna and Maverick stopped by. By chance do you have any more of that potion that removes allergens from cats?"

"Sorry Abby but I don't. It was purely by accident that I even found out such a potion existed," Candice apologized. "However, Miss Lovegood may have the recipe for the potion. She has access to all the school records, including the protected records of past professors."

"That's a good idea," Abby agreed, before turning to Valentina. "Up for a trip to Hexley Hall?"

"Sounds good," Valentina agreed.

"Good point," Abby confirmed. "I'll go to my room, and get my broom."

"And I brought mine with me," Valentina announced.

In a little while, Abby and Valentina met each other at the castle flying carriage launching and landing area. Both teenagers mounted their brooms, and flew away from Enchancia Castle. After a little bit of flying time, they arrived at Hexley Hall. As they landed and dismounted their brooms, they noticed that Hexley Hall was busy with activity. Saturdays meant that visiting scholars were arriving by broom and flying carriage to make use of the Hexley Hall library, and the students who lived at Hexley Hall during the school year were holding a number of in-school social events.

Abby and Valentina walked to Headmistress Lovegood's office, and knocked on the door.

"Come in," Lovegood invited.

Abby and Valentina opened the door, and walked in.

"Lady Abby, Miss Androcasia," Lovegood smiled. "What may I do for you?"

"I was wondering, Miss Lovegood, if you had the recipe to the potion that rids cats of cat allergens," Abby requested, as she explained what she wanted it for.

"I can do that," Miss Lovegood happily responded. "If the two of you will wait here, I'll go and get you a copy of the recipe."

As Abby and Valentina each took a seat in Lovegood's office, Miss Lovegood's Norwegian Forest Cat, Wilfred, walked up.

"Good morning, ladies," Wilfred greeted. "How are you this morning?"

"Doing fine, Wilfred," Abby smiled.

"I'm so happy that Sofia and Lucinda enchanted a crystal to wear around my neck that allows me to talk to animals," Valentina said to Abby. "It was nice that they enchanted such a crystal for you as well."

"Oh, yes," Abby happily agreed. The truth be told, Abby's Amulet of Asbron allowed Abby to talk to animals. However, Abby's amulet was meant to be secret, so Abby came up with the cover story of Sofia and Lucinda enchanting a crystal for her.

"It's nice being able to communicate with the two of you," Wilfred smiled. "I don't get to talk to humans much, unless they have some kind of special ability to talk to animals."

Wilfred, Abby, and Valentina had a pleasant conversation. In a little while, Miss Lovegood returned with the potion recipe.

"Here you go, ladies," Lovegood smiled as she handed a copy to Abby, and a copy to Valentina. "I made you both a copy."

"Thank you, Miss Lovegood," Abby said gratefully.

"Yes, thank you, Miss Lovegood," Valentina happily added.

"The two of you are very welcome," Lovegood acknowledged with a smile.

At that same moment, on the Mystic Isles, Gwen stepped out onto an island on the Isle of Mermaids as her flying unicorn took off and she heard a voice clearing.

"Gwenevere Johnson?" a voice asked and Gwen looked to see a female mermaid resting next to a rock on the island with a kind smile on her face. The mermaid had black hair with a starfish clip, a seafoam scaled top and a golden tail.

"Please, call me Gwen," Gwen requested before shaking her hand. "You know, you look just like ..."

"I'm not your mother, Gwen," the mermaid explained. "My name is Nerissa. Your mother and I were identical twins. Except for the part where I'm a mermaid and she was a human."

"That makes you my aunt," Gwen realized. "That must be why Vega asked you to train me in particular."

"Of course," Nerissa acknowledged. "Training starts effective immediately. Come on in, the water's fine."

Gwen then smiled before leaping off of her perch and landing in the water perfectly.

Elsewhere on the Mystic Isles, outside of the Protectors Headquarters, Vega was waiting as Suzette and Marcy flew up on unicorns.

"Welcome, ladies," Vega greeted, as she motioned Chrysta and Orion to come forward. "Allow me to introduce you to your Protector trainers. Suzette, you'll be trained by Chrysta, one of our finest Protector trainers."

"I'm honored, Miss Chrysta," Suzette said in awe as she curtsied.

"It's just Chrysta to you," Chrysta smiled. "And you don't have to curtsy to me. It's not like we're in the castle."

"Understood, Chrysta," Suzette smiled back.

"And Marcy," Vega continued, "you'll be trained by Orion, one of our highest ranking Protectors."

"It is an honor to meet somebody from Angelor," Orion smiled at Marcy. "I look forward to our time together."

"As do I," Marcy acknowledged.

"Then, I'll leave the four of you to your training," Vega said as she walked inside the Protectors Headquarters.

Late that afternoon

At Enchancia Castle, Gwen, Suzette, and Marcy arrived back at the castle. As they climbed off of the unicorns which had returned them, the three found Wallace, Timothy, Marie, and Sir Maxwell waiting for them.

"Welcome home, Gwen," Wallace greeted as he hugged Gwen. "Have a good day?"

"The best," Gwen smiled, as she looked at Timothy. "The Mystic Isles are as wonderful as you said they would be."

Timothy smiled at Gwen's observation.

"Where's Papa?" Gwen asked Wallace.

"In the kitchen with Dorrie and Candice," Wallace answered. "Queen Miranda's birthday is coming up, and the three of them are planning her birthday cake."

"Mom!" Marie happily said as she raced up to Suzette.

"Hello, my precious one," Suzette smiled as she hugged Marie.

As Marcy looked at the touching scene, Sir Maxwell walked up to her.

"Good afternoon, Marcy," Sir Maxwell smiled. "Welcome home."

Marcy and Sir Maxwell had been dating each other for a little while.

"It's good to be home," Marcy happily said to Sir Maxwell. "I have a lot to tell you about the Mystic Isles. Such a beautiful place."

"I look forward to hearing about it ... over supper tonight," Sir Maxwell commented. "I've made arrangements for us to dine in that charming small red brick one room cottage in back of the castle."

"That sounds wonderful, Maxwell," Marcy happily approved.

Inside the castle, Abby was in Dorrie and Candice's workshop with Luna and Maverick brewing up the potion.

"Won't we get in trouble for being in here?" Luna asked, concerned.

"King Roland has given his blessing for the two of you to be here," Abby reassured Luna.

In a few minutes, the potion was ready.

"Apparently, I pour the potion on each of you," Abby announced. "Sorry about that. I know cats don't like getting wet."

"Hey! I'll settle for it as long as it means I get to stay here in the castle during bad weather," Maverick pointed out.

"Luna, you first," Abby directed as Luna walked over. Abby then took one of two beakers, and poured it on Luna. "Done. Maverick, you're next."

Abby took the other beaker, and poured it on Maverick. "And, that's it."

"Shall I summon King Roland?" Baileywick asked, who was standing in the doorway.

"Yes, please, Mister Baileywick," Abby requested.

In a short while, Baileywick returned with King Roland.

"Well, so far I'm not sneezing," Roland observed as he walked into the workshop. Roland then walked up to Luna and Maverick, and started petting them. A smile came over Roland's face, knowing he was not allergic to the two cats. "This is wonderful, Abby. These two can stay in the castle from this point forward."

"Thank you, King Roland," Abby said, grateful.

"You are most welcome, Abby," Roland smiled as Baileywick walked up after having been handed a message from a male servant.

"Sire," Baileywick announced. "A message from your sister and Sir Bartleby."

Roland read the message, then smiled.

"Good news?" Baileywick asked, curious.

"Yes," Roland happily started. "Tilly is pregnant. She and Sir Bartleby are going to have a baby."

"That's wonderful news, Sire," Baileywick smiled.

"I have to tell Miranda and the children," Roland happily announced as he left the workshop.

As Roland and Baileywick walked out of the workshop, Dorrie's owl friend, Arnan, flew in, and gently landed on one of the workshop tables.

"Ah! Arnan!" Abby exclaimed happily. "There you are. Would you mind doing me a favor?"

"Of course," Arnan agreed as Abby wrote a note, and attached it to one of Arnan's legs.

"Please take this note to Valentina," Abby requested. "She'll want to know that the potion works so she can use it on Inky, and he can visit the castle with her."

"Consider it done," Arnan said as he flew off.

"Maverick," Abby started, "Dorrie and Candice have agreed you may stay here in their workshop. It will be nice and warm in here. I've already taken the liberty of fixing you up a place to sleep here."

"Oh, this is going to be wonderful!" Maverick smiled in glee. "No more living out in the cold."

"Luna, come with me, please," Abby smiled. "I'll show you my room where you'll be living. But first, we have to stop by the kitchen - Chef Andre, Dorrie, and Candice are planning out Queen Miranda's birthday cake, and I said I'd help in the planning."

Abby and Luna walked to the kitchen, where Chef Andre, Dorrie, and Candice were discussing the details of the cake.

"Then we're agreed," Chef Andre started. "It will be a white cake. But what kind of frosting?"

"How about strawberry frosting?" Dorrie suggested.

"Or a white frosting with strawberries as decoration?" Candice suggested.

"I have an idea," Abby started. "How about pink butter cream frosting with strawberries as decoration?"

"Oh!" Dorrie exclaimed in delight. "That sounds wonderfully perfect!"

"And it will be a perfect match for the strawberries," Candice happily agreed.

"It will be the perfect cake for Queen Miranda's birthday," Chef Andre smiled. "When the time comes to make the cake, I'll trust the three of you to do it. You're among our finest bakers."

Dorrie, Candice, and Abby smiled with pride at Chef Andre's compliment.

"Ah!" Dorrie smiled, looking at Luna. "The potion worked!"

"On both Luna and Maverick," Abby happily reported. "Maverick is making himself comfortable in your workshop, and Luna will live with me in my room."

"Excellent!" Candice approved. "Creamy will have some new friends here in the castle."

"It sounds like a perfect threesome," Chef Andre smiled as he petted Luna.

Early that evening

In the small red brick one room cottage in back of the castle, Sir Maxwell and Marcy sat down to a delicious supper. As the two ate, they had a pleasant conversation. At one point, Sir Maxwell got up.

"I have a special surprise for you," Sir Maxwell smiled as he brought forward a covered serving tray. He uncovered the tray, which revealed a delicious pie. "Cake fruit pie, especially for you, my lady."

"This looks wonderful," Marcy smiled. "Where ever did you get it?"

"I made it with my own two hands," Sir Maxwell announced. "My mother was a fine cook, and she taught me everything I know about cooking. As for the cake fruit, in the winter we grow it in the greenhouse on the castle grounds. I came across the perfect recipe, and I whipped up this pie."

"Oh, my!" Marcy exclaimed, impressed. "A knight, a singer, and a cook."

"Three of my favorite passions," Sir Maxwell smiled. "But my greatest passion is you, my dear Marcy."

Marcy smiled at the compliment.

Inside the castle, Marie walked into Dorrie and Candice's workshop, and found Maverick resting.

"Hello," Marie smiled at Maverick. "My amulet - the Amulet of Mermardia - allows me to talk to animals. I've brought you some supper."

"A warm place to stay, and now food?" Maverick gleefully said. "I must have died and gone to Heaven."

"It's all real," Marie assured Maverick. "A warm place to stay, and three meals a day. Enjoy."

"Thank you," Maverick said gratefully as he started eating.

As Maverick ate, Marie gently petted him.

"I've better be going," Marie announced. "I'll be back in the morning. Have a good sleep."

As Marie left, Maverick watched her leave. "Nice kid," Maverick thought to himself.

In Abby's room, Abby was sitting in an overstuffed chair, as Luna sat in Abby's lap.

"This is nice," Luna smiled. "I'm going to enjoy castle life."

"And I'm going to enjoy having you here," Abby smiled back. "Did you have enough for supper?"

"Considering what I'm use to, it was a feast," Luna remarked, pleased. "Thank you."

"You're welcome," Abby happily responded as she gently petted Luna, who purred in delight.

Later that evening, Marie was lying in bed as Suzette was sitting with her.

"Something on your mind, Marie?" Suzette asked, curious.

"A little something," Marie answered. "I was thinking about the cats that Abby treated with that potion so they could be inside the castle. You know how Abby took one of them?"

"Yes, I do. Didn't she get the Siamese cat?"

"Yes, apparently its named Luna," Marie responded. "The other one, Maverick, is currently living in Dorrie and Candice's workshop. Dorrie asked me earlier to take him some food. Do you think someday I could get a cat?"

"You definitely are a responsible young girl. I think I can allow it," Suzette promised.

February 14, 1869

It was a Sunday morning at Enchancia Castle. February 14th, being Valentine's Day, was special enough in Enchancia. But, February 14th in Enchancia was doubly special. Not only was it Valentine's Day, but it was also Queen Miranda's birthday.

In the castle kitchen, Dorrie, Candice, and Abby were working on Miranda's birthday cake when they noticed movement near the door. Abby quietly snuck over to the door, then quickly opened it.

"James!" Abby exclaimed, surprising the prince in the process. "You know the kitchen is off limits right now!"

"Sorry," James apologized with a devilish grin. "I wanted to sneak a peek at the cake."

"You mean you wanted to eat some cake," Dorrie grinned.

"Okay, I'm busted," James chuckled.

"Well, you're here now, so you might as well come in," Candice invited. "But no spilling the beans about what you see here. We want the cake to be a complete surprise."

"Yes, boss," James joked as he walked in, and closed the door behind him. "Whoa! What a beautiful cake!"

"I'd say it's our best work yet," Dorrie said with pride on behalf of herself, Candice, and Abby.

"It's a masterpiece," James said in awe.

"So, how did Queen Miranda like her Valentine's gifts?" Abby asked James, curious.

"She loved them!" James smiled. "Amber, Sofia, Lucinda, and I all got together and got her some chocolate, and each of us wrote a Valentine's poem for her."

"That's sweet!" Candice exclaimed, impressed.

"I got a box of chocolates for Vivian, and I also wrote her a Valentine's poem," James announced. "But I'm still looking for that special something to put it over the top."

"I have an idea," Dorrie started. "Why don't you sing a special song for her? Girls love to be serenaded."

"That's perfect!" James said in glee. "You're a life saver, Dorrie."

"All in a day's work," Dorrie grinned as she, Candice, and Abby finished decorating the cake.

"James," Candice started as she handed him a bowl and a spoon. "Here's some left over butter cream frosting. Enjoy."

"Thanks, Candice!" James exclaimed in joy. "How well you know me."

As Dorrie, Candice, and Abby smiled at James enjoying the frosting, a male guard with white skin and blond hair walked in.

"Ah! Lieutenant Hummel," Dorrie smiled. "You're just in time. We're going to put away the cake for this afternoon's birthday party."

"I'll make sure nobody gets into the storage room," Hummel promised.

"You may help yourself to any food in the kitchen," Dorrie informed Hummel.

"Thank you, Lady Dorrie," Hummel acknowledged, gratefully.

"What's this Lady Dorrie stuff?" Dorrie chuckled. "It's just Dorrie to you. You and I are fast friends, ever since that time I had to be in a wheelchair for a while. You were so kind and helpful."

"It was my pleasure, Dorrie," Hummel smiled.

Dorrie, Candice, and Abby wheeled the cake into the storage room, closed the door, and left the kitchen with James.

"I've best be getting ready for Vivian to come over," James smiled. "What are your plans, ladies?"

"Frederick and Everett are coming over for Valentine's Day," Dorrie answered, as she and Candice smiled in happiness.

"And you, Abby?" James asked.

"Well," Abby started, "Prince Mike is coming over for Valentine's Day. The two of us thought we'd spend the day together."

"So, it's true," James smiled. "The two of you are dating."

"More like we're close friends," Abby smiled back.

At that same moment, in the castle observatory, Roland and Miranda were sitting down to a Valentine's Day brunch.

"A special Valentine's Day brunch, just for us," Roland smiled.

"Oh, Rollie!" Miranda exclaimed in happiness. "This is so sweet."

"Not as sweet as you are," Roland commented as he held Miranda's hand. "And this is just the beginning. Your birthday celebration is this afternoon, and it will be a grand affair."

"I know I shouldn't be asking," Miranda started, "but I couldn't help noticing the activity around the kitchen. I hope all of you haven't gone all out, just for me?"

"And why not?" Roland asked with a smile. "I don't know of anybody more deserving than you are. You bring so much happiness to all of us here, and you richly deserve every happiness that comes your way."

Miranda smiled at Roland's compliment.

"I hear the cake will be a thing of beauty ... or, at least that's what the rumors are," Roland reported.

"Then, you haven't seen it?" Miranda asked, curious.

"I have dominion over all of the kingdom ... except for the kitchen," Roland admitted with a chuckle. "Knowing Dorrie and Candice, they probably have the whole of Enchancian Intelligence looking for cake spies."

Miranda chuckled at the thought.

"Scone, my dear?" Roland offered as he handed Miranda a raisin scone.

"Thank you," Miranda smiled.

Meanwhile, in the village, Timothy was at Sam's house. Timothy and Sam sat on the couch together as Sam's parents watched from a nearby room.

"Happy Valentine's Day," Timothy smiled as he handed Sam a box of chocolates, and some flowers.

"Oh, Timothy!" Sam exclaimed, pleased. "Thank you so much."

"You're welcome," Timothy happily acknowledged.

"I have something for you as well," Sam announced as she reached behind her, brought out a box of chocolates, and handed the box to Timothy.

"Golly!" Timothy exclaimed in glee. "Thank you."

"You're welcome, my precious dream chaser," Sam smiled as she hugged Timothy.

Sam's parents smiled at the touching scene.

A birthday celebration

That afternoon, at the castle, the royal family, the staff, and invited guests were gathered in the ballroom. As Miranda walked into the ballroom, Fritz, Eileen, Nonya, and Molly started singing.

"Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday, Queen Miranda. Happy birthday to you."

Everybody clapped as Miranda stepped before everybody gathered.

"What a wonderful way to spend a birthday," Miranda smiled in happiness.

At that same moment, Baileywick stepped forward. "I present to you ... the Queen's birthday cake."

"This is going to knock your socks off," James happily whispered to Amber.

The doors to the ballroom opened, and Dorrie, Candice, and Abby wheeled Miranda's birthday cake in on a large cart. Everybody gasped in amazement at the cake. It was a tiered fifteen layer birthday cake with pink butter cream frosting, pink decorative features, and the top of each tier was lined with strawberries. It was one of the most beautiful cakes anybody had ever seen.

"Oh, my!" Miranda gasped in awe. "I am so honored. So very honored."

"Happy birthday, Queen Miranda," Dorrie, Candice, and Abby said as they curtsied. "With all our love."

"Thank you so very much, girls," Miranda smiled in appreciation.

"You're very welcome, ma'am," Dorrie acknowledged on behalf of herself, Candice, and Abby.

"You've outdone yourselves," Roland praised Dorrie, Candice, and Abby. "We are so blessed having three fine bakers at our disposal."

Dorrie, Candice, and Abby smiled at Roland's praise, as Frederick, Everett, and Mike gave Dorrie, Candice, and Abby a thumbs up gesture.

"As is tradition, the Queen will cut the first slice of her birthday cake," Baileywick announced.

Miranda cut a slice of cake, put it on a plate, and started eating. "Delicious!" Miranda declared as everybody in the room clapped.

The male servants started serving slices of cake to those in attendance. As everybody enjoyed the cake, Sofia and Lucinda walked up to Dorrie, Candice, and Abby.

"This cake is really outstanding," Sofia smiled.

"I love how you paired white cake with pink butter cream frosting," Lucinda complimented.

"And the strawberries are a nice touch," Sofia happily added.

"Dorrie, Candice, and Abby - the three of you did an outstanding job," Violet praised as she walked up with Abby's parents.

"The cake is perfect," Abby's father praised.

"And so very delicious," Abby's mother happily added.

Dorrie, Candice, and Abby smiled with pride.

Those in the ballroom had a fine time enjoying the cake, and talking to each other. As time went on, there was the presenting of birthday gifts to Miranda, who enjoyed opening each one. It was a wonderful day which would be remembered for a long time.

That evening

At Enchancia Castle, in Marie's room, Marie was sitting on her bed with Maverick on her lap. Marie had gotten to know Maverick, and had adopted Maverick as her own as it were. Marie gently petted Maverick, as Maverick purred in delight.

"How's that, Maverick?" Marie asked.

"Perfect," Maverick answered, pleased. "This is comfortable."

"I'm glad," Marie smiled. "It's nice having you here."

"I like being here," Maverick happily admitted. "You're a good friend."

"May we be friends for a long time," Marie said with a smile as she continued to pet Maverick, who enjoyed Marie's gentle touch.

After a while, it was time to go to sleep for the night. As Marie climbed into her bed, Maverick snuggled up in a cat bed that Marie had provided.

"Good night, Maverick," Marie smiled.

"Good night, Marie," Maverick smiled back. "Pleasant dreams."

"You too, Maverick," Marie happily said.

Marie rolled over in her bed and went to sleep, as Maverick laid his head down and went to sleep. Everything was wonderfully perfect with the world.

(End of Chapter 31).

Behind the scenes

In this edition of "Behind the scenes", a special note, and two raisin scone recipes (one for the griddle, and one for the oven).

Special note

I had told you earlier that I planned to do an ending to my story "Enchancia Castle". However, after looking at what I had so far for "Enchancia Castle", I will instead be rewriting "Enchancia Castle" over the upcoming months to make the story even better. The original "Enchancia Castle" will remain posted, and the rewritten version will be called "Enchancia Castle: The Rewrite".

Raisin Scones (griddle recipe)

1/2 pound all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
3 ounces unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes
2 ounces raisins
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 cup whole milk

Over low heat on the stove top, start to preheat a heavy pan or griddle.

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cream of tartar, and baking soda.

Using your fingertips, rub the cubes of butter into the dry ingredients until large, cornflake-sized pieces remain. Stir in the raisins and sugar.

Add enough of the milk to form a soft dough. If you need a little more milk than the 1/2 cup indicated, please do not be afraid to splash in a bit more. The amount you need really depends on how dry your brand of flour is, so don't worry if you don't use it all up, or if you have to add in extra.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured counter, and roll out into a 1/2 inch thick circle.

Cut into rounds with a 2 1/2 inch cutter. You should get nine scones.

By now your griddle (or pan) should be nice and hot, so drop on a small piece of butter and spread it around the griddle to grease the entire cooking surface.

Place the scones on the griddle (or pan) and turn down the heat to the lowest possible setting. This way the scones will cook all the way through without browning too much on the outside.

Cook the scones until they are a rich brown on the bottom, 8 to 10 minutes.

Use a spatula to flip them over and continue to cook on the other side until the scones are no longer doughy in the center, another 10 to 15 minutes. Rotate the scones on the griddle (or pan) as they cook, as certain parts of the griddle (or pan) may be hotter than others. If you rotate the scones as they cook, you should be able to avoid uneven coloring.

Remove from the griddle (or pan) to a platter and let cool for a few minutes before serving. It is suggested eating these warm, with butter and your nicest jam.

Raisin Scones (oven recipe)

2 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1/3 cup white sugar
4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small cubes
1/2 cup raisins
3/4 cup milk
1 egg

Preheat oven to 400F.

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.

Add the cold butter to the bowl and using a pastry blender, cut the butter into the flour. Continue until a crumbly consistency is produced. Stir in the raisins.

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg into the milk. Pour the milk mixture into the flour and stir together with your hands until combined. Work gently and be careful to not over-mix the batter.

Spread a little flour on a flat work surface. Dump the batter onto the floured work surface and pat down to make a 8 inch disc. Cut into 8 equal wedges.

Place wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Bake for 16-18 minutes. The scones should be just starting to brown on top.

They are best served right away although they are very tasty served at room temperature. Eat with butter and your nicest jam.

Author's notes

Arnan is the same snowy white owl who appeared in the "Sofia the First" episode "Holiday in Enchancia".

Cake fruit is from the "Sofia the First" episode "Ivy's True Colors".

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

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.

Floo Network is from "Harry Potter".

"Gwenevere Johnson?" a voice asked and Gwen looked to see a female mermaid resting next to a rock on the island with a kind smile on her face - technically, Gwen's birth last name is Baker on her father's side. However, in this case, the last name of Johnson is a nod to Gwen's mother, Sarina Johnson.

Having Marcy and Sir Maxwell date each other was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

Having Tilly being pregnant was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

In regard to February 14th, Going on and on and on suggested that I add a Valentine's Day element to this chapter. After thinking about it, I decided to go one better: having Valentine's Day and Miranda's birthday fall on the same day, and making it one grand day in the process.

James ability to sing is a homage to Jolly Roger Brat's "Sofia the First" fan fiction where James sings on a regular basis.

Lieutenant Hummel is originally from Chapter 14 of my story "Dorrie" (as readers of "Dorrie" will remember, it was in Chapters 13 and 14 where Dorrie's ankle was on the mend after an encounter with the then-evil Constance).

Marie Perkins, Timothy O'Toole, and Samantha "Sam" Cook are characters created by MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury, and are used in this story with the permission of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

Miss (Gayle) Lovegood (A.K.A. Headmistress Lovegood) is originally from my stories "Dorrie" and "Dorrie: Book Two", and is an ancestor of Luna Lovegood from "Harry Potter".

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

Nerissa is the mermaid Protector from the "Sofia the First" episode "Return to Merroway Cove".

People from Angelor: when people from Angelor are in angel mode, they glow, and have angel-like wings. When in human mode, they appear as other humans do.

Prince Mike is the chubby prince who appeared from time to time in "Sofia the First". The friendship between Abby and Mike would be a lot like Andi and Cyrus' friendship in "Andi Mack".

Scone: a rich quick bread usually cut into triangular or round shapes and cooked on a griddle or baked on a sheet.

The Amulet of Mermardia is originally from Chapter 44 of my story "Dorrie: Book Two".

The creature mentioned at the beginning of this chapter is Sheynok from Chapter 29 of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia". Sheynok is now a character created by myself and Brigade701.

The Kingdoms of Angelor and Mermardia were created by MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury for my stories.

The opening dialog in this chapter, up to the point where Candice apologizes for not having the recipe for the potion, was supplied by Brigade701.

The scene with Gwen and Nerissa was the idea of Ben10Man (who also provided the dialog for that scene).

The scene with Marie and Suzette was the idea of Brigade701 (who also provided the dialog for that scene).

"You'll have to use brooms," Candice reminded Abby and Valentina. "The Floo Network doesn't go to schools due to security measures put in place by the magical community. You just don't want the bad guys being able to have handy access to a hostage rich environment like a school. Last year's attack on Royal Prep by Neila only served to reinforce that point" - if you'll notice from "Harry Potter", the Floo Network was never used to transport to or from Hogwarts. After thinking about it, this is my explanation of why.

Disclaimer

"Andi Mack" and everything associated with it © Terri Minsky, Go Dog Go, MM Productions, Horizon Productions, and Disney Channel.

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

Creamy and the other original ideas from Jolly Roger Brat are the property of Jolly Roger Brat, and are used in my stories 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).

"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.

Marie Perkins, Timothy O'Toole, Samantha "Sam" Cook, 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.

I only own Abby Murphy and her parents, Cake Fruit Pie, Candice Cosmarune-Cooper, Dorrie and Candice's workshop, Dorrie Cosmarune-Cooper, Enchancian Intelligence, Inky, Lieutenant Hummel, Miss Lovegood, the Amulet of Asbron, the greenhouse on the castle grounds, the small red brick one room cottage in back of the castle, Valentina Androcasia, and Wilfred.