Once Upon a Time in Enchancia Chapter 35: Settling In, a sofia the first fanfic

Once Upon a Time in Enchancia

Welcome to Chapter 35 of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia".

Special note (June 20, 2020): In light of companies retiring or looking into products that feature racial stereotypes, I am following their example. I have found five chapters/stories of my fan fiction which contain the titles "Head Boy" and "Head Girl". I realize that some will argue that these terms are commonplace in "Harry Potter" and in many schools. However, I want to do the right thing in light of current circumstances and replace these titles with "Head Student". If you are seeing this boldface note, then that means that this chapter/story was one of those chapters/stories where the title "Head Student" now appears.

Chapter 35: Settling In

May 8, 1869

It was a Saturday inside Enchancia Castle, Sir Maxwell and Marcy were sitting in a room with Elizabeth.

"Elizabeth," Marcy gently started. "Sir Maxwell and I have something we'd like to ask you."

"What?" Elizabeth asked, curious.

"Marcy and I have come to love you," Maxwell started. "If you're agreeable, Marcy and I would like to adopt you."

Elizabeth sat back for a few moments, and thought it over. Elizabeth then sat up, and faced Maxwell and Marcy.

"I'd like that," Elizabeth smiled.

"Then Marcy and I will see Mrs. Tweedle, who is the local adoption agent, and get the ball rolling," Maxwell happily announced.

That afternoon, in the village jail in the Village of Wendarby, Scarlett approached a jail cell with a determined look on her face as she saw a humanoid woman with a long scaly tail, large reptilian wings and long smooth horns waiting for her in the darkness.

"Queen Scarlett. Why am I not surprised?"

"Leanne," Scarlett said with a calm nod. "I heard what happened with your sister."

"Lovisa is not my sister!" Leanne barked, smoke pouring from her nostrils in anger. "Not after she left me behind to rot like yesterday's garbage!"

"Luckily for you, I'm nothing like her. And as to your current ... condition, I've prepared a little something," Scarlett announced as she reached into her pouch, and produced a crimson potion from it. "This is the potion that will return you to normal. I'm more than willing to let you have it."

Leanne eagerly looked up and ran for the potion, only for Scarlett to swipe it away.

"Not so fast. This isn't exactly free."

"I have no money," Leanne explained.

"I don't want any money. I just want you to agree to my terms."

"All right," Leanne sighed. "What do you want?"

"Here's the deal: I give you the cure and transfer you into my custody. I protect you from Enchancian Intelligence and Crimson Force. I keep you safe. In return, you work for me."

"I'll never work for you!" Leanne spat.

"Fine. If you want to stay a freak for the rest of your life, be my guest."

Scarlett turned to walk away before Leanne gasped.

"Wait!"

Scarlett immediately turned around with a smile.

"... I accept your terms," Leanne relented.

"That's what I thought," Scarlett smiled, pleased, as she brought the potion close to the prison bars, still keeping it just out of reach. "But, one other piece of business before you return to normal."

"What?" Leanne asked.

"Did you personally have anything to do with the death of Elizabeth West's parents?" Scarlett wanted to know. "I want the truth out of you, and look me in the eye when you answer!"

"No, I didn't have anything to do with the death of the girl's parents," Leanne announced. "My sister, and some of her hand picked assassins, were the murderers."

"I believe you," Scarlett said as she handed the potion to Leanne, who quickly drank it down.

In a few moments, Leanne changed back to her normal self, as Scarlett motioned a guard to open the cell. When the cell door opened, Scarlett quickly slapped a bracelet on Leanne's wrist. The bracelet glowed for a few moments, then returned to normal.

"What did you do?!" Leanne demanded to know.

"That bracelet prevents you from using your magical abilities," Scarlett explained. "You cannot remove it - only I can. I can't have you disappearing once you leave jail."

"A wise precaution," Leanne admitted in defeat. "You might be surprised to learn that even with this bracelet on, I'm better off than I was. Living under my sister wasn't a picnic."

"Tell me more," Scarlett directed, curious.

"There's a reason Lovisa became the new leader after Neila died," Leanne started. "Lovisa is as bloodthirsty as Neila was. And, as of late, Lovisa has become more than a bit crazy ... Queen Iracebeth crazy."

"I see," Scarlett nodded in understanding. "Come. We need to be getting to Cinnibar."

May 12, 1869

It was a Wednesday afternoon at Enchancia Castle. In a conference room, Sir Maxwell and Marcy were meeting with Mrs. Tweedle.

"I'm sorry to inform you that a roadblock has come up in regard to your adoption of Elizabeth," Mrs. Tweedle gently apologized. "We've found a relative of Elizabeth's, and that relative wants to claim Elizabeth."

"Who is this relative?" Sir Maxwell wanted to know.

"Lady Louisa Windsong-Pepperton," Mrs. Tweedle answered. "Lady Louisa is the sister of Elizabeth's birth mother. Lady Louisa is married to Sir Alexander Pepperton the Second, a knight of Corinthia."

"But, we love Elizabeth," Marcy sadly remarked.

"I realize this must be hard for you," Mrs. Tweedle consoled Marcy. "But, a relative must take precedent in cases like this. I'm so sorry."

As Marcy wept in Maxwell's arms, the ghost of Queen Melinda watched, unseen to those in the room.

"Alexander is my brother," Melinda thought to herself. "That would make Elizabeth a cousin to Amber and James."

News quickly spread through the castle about the situation. In the castle sitting room, sixteen-year-old Amber, and sixteen-year-old James, were discussing what was going on.

"We now have a cousin, and Uncle Alexander and Aunt Louisa want to take her away," James lamented.

"I'm not crazy about this either, James, but what can we do?" Amber attempted to comfort James.

At that moment, fifteen-year-old Candice walked in with a soft drink for Amber, and a soft drink for James.

"We have to have faith," Candice consoled Amber and James. "The darkest hour comes before the dawn."

May 15, 1869

It was Saturday at Enchancia Castle. Sir Alexander Pepperton the Second, and Lady Louisa Windsong-Pepperton, had arrived to claim nine-year-old Elizabeth. Baileywick led the two up to King Roland's study where Roland, Mrs. Tweedle, Sir Maxwell, Marcy, Elizabeth, Queen Miranda, Amber, James, nine-year-old Timothy, and ten-year-old Marie were waiting.

"Sir Alexander, Lady Louisa," Roland greeted. "Please, have a seat."

Alexander and Louisa sat down, as Louisa looked at Elizabeth.

"You must be Elizabeth," Louisa smiled. "I haven't seen you since you were a baby."

"It's nice to meet you, Aunt Louisa," Elizabeth said with a sad, but brave, tone.

"What's wrong, child?" Louisa gently asked.

"I've grown to like it here at Enchancia Castle," Elizabeth explained. "I don't want to leave."

At that moment, a knock came at the door.

"Enter," Roland invited, as fifteen-year-old Dorrie, and fifteen-year-old Candice entered.

"Excuse the interruption, sir," Dorrie apologized. "A person directly connected to this situation has requested to be present."

Candice then stepped forward. "Presenting her royal highness, Queen Melinda of Enchancia."

In a few moments, the ghost of Queen Melinda appeared before those present.

"Melinda?" Alexander smiled in joy. "Is it you, Melinda?"

"Yes, Alexander, my dear brother," Melinda smiled back. "It's me."

"Queen Melinda," Louisa acknowledged as she curtsied. "What may we do for you?"

"I'm here to ask a favor," Melinda started. "Elizabeth has already lost her parents. And now, just when she's settling into a new life here at Enchancia Castle, she's having that ripped away from her as well. I should think that would be too much for anybody to bare, don't you?"

"But Elizabeth belongs with family," Louisa countered.

"I realize that," Melinda acknowledged. "But, there are circumstances that make this situation unique. Your marriage to my brother makes Elizabeth a cousin to my children, Amber and James. They've gotten to know Elizabeth over the past few days, and the three of them have forged a relationship. Timothy O'Toole here is her paternal cousin and Marie Perkins is a good friend of Elizabeth, and the three of them have reconnected. And, most important of all, Sir Maxwell and Lady Marcy are fine people who will take good care of Elizabeth."

"I can understand all of that," Louisa said in an understanding way. "But, I am family to Elizabeth, and I'd like to be involved in her life,"

"Perhaps, Louisa, some kind of compromise can be reached," Alexander suggested.

"I suggest that Mrs. Tweedle, Lady Louisa, Sir Alexander, Elizabeth, Sir Maxwell, Lady Marcy, and Queen Melinda have a private conversation, while the rest of us wait in the hallway," Roland offered.

A while passed, as Roland, Miranda, Amber, James, Dorrie, Candice, Timothy, Marie, and Baileywick stood waiting in the hall. The door to Roland's study opened, and Louisa and Alexander emerged.

"I'll visit you as often as I can," Louisa smiled at Elizabeth.

"King Roland," Alexander started, "thank you for allowing my wife and me to come here today. If you'll have somebody alert our carriage driver, we'll be on our way."

"I'll see to that immediately, sir," Baileywick acknowledged. "Please follow me."

As Alexander and Louisa walked off with Baileywick, James looked dumbfounded. "What just happened?" James asked.

"Elizabeth is staying here at Enchancia Castle, as the daughter of Sir Maxwell and Marcy," Melinda announced.

Everybody in the hallway cheered in happiness, as Miranda walked up to Melinda.

"Thank you, Melinda, for stepping in," Miranda said, grateful.

"You're welcome, Miranda," Melinda smiled. "Elizabeth has become a part of this extended family of ours, and family sticks together."

"I'll see that your adoption of Elizabeth goes through as quickly as possible," Mrs. Tweedle said to Maxwell and Marcy. "May the three of you have a happy life together."

"Thank you, Mrs. Tweedle," Marcy smiled as she, Maxwell, and Elizabeth hugged each other in happiness.

May 20, 1869

It was a Thursday morning at Hexley Hall. Elizabeth's adoption had been finalized a day earlier, and Headmistress Lovegood had fast tracked Elizabeth's admission into Hexley Hall. As Elizabeth stood in the great hall with Headmistress Lovegood, Elizabeth looked at the Pepperton table. Amber and James went to Hexley Hall on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and were seated at the Pepperton table. Also at the Pepperton table were sixteen-year-old Sofia and fifteen-year-old Lucinda, along with Dorrie, Candice, Timothy, and Marie. Sofia, Lucinda, Dorrie, and Candice usually went to Royal Prep on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but had been given permission to be at Hexley Hall this morning to attend Elizabeth's sorting.

"Students and staff, your attention please," Headmistress Lovegood started. "I'd like to introduce to you Elizabeth West-Chadwick. Since it is very late in the school year, Elizabeth will start attending classes here in the fall. However, it was decided to sort her now so her house could be established. How do we greet our new student?"

"Good morning, Elizabeth," all the students cheerfully called out in unison.

"Good morning," Elizabeth smiled back. "Please, just call me Eliza. It's a nickname I have that I like."

"Then Eliza it is," Headmistress Lovegood happily acknowledged as she led Elizabeth over to a chair. "Sit down, please, Eliza, while I put the sorting hat on your head."

Headmistress Lovegood put the sorting hat on Elizabeth's head. In a few moments, the sorting hat came to life, and started going through Elizabeth's mind.

"Ah!" the sorting hat exclaimed in joy. "This is going to be very easy. I don't even need to think about this one. There's only one logical choice on where to place young Eliza here ... Pepperton!"

Everybody at the Pepperton table cheered. Amber and James hugged each other in joy. Timothy and Marie high fived each other in happiness. Sofia, Lucinda, Dorrie, and Candice smiled at each other, happy for Elizabeth's sorting into Pepperton.

As Elizabeth happily walked over to the Pepperton table, she glanced over to the Kennicot table where a nine-year-old boy was happily looking at her. The boy's name was Kirk Winston.

"Kirk?" a boy at the Kennicot table asked Kirk. "You okay, Kirk?"

"Yes," Kirk smiled.

"Oh, he's smitten," another Kennicot boy said of Kirk.

"Eliza is the most beautiful girl I've ever seen," Kirk happily admitted. "I'll have to get to know her."

"Welcome to Pepperton, Eliza," Sofia happily said as Elizabeth sat down. "You'll love it here."

"You know a lot of the people sitting here," Dorrie smiled as she looked at Candice, Amber, James, Sofia, Lucinda, Timothy, and Marie.

"Let us introduce you to others who are in Pepperton," Candice continued for Dorrie. "You know Abby Murphy from around the castle. This is Princess Jade Chen, and her best friend, Ruby Hanshaw. And this is Adair Starwell. Adair's family owns and runs the restaurant in the village."

"It's nice to meet all of you," Elizabeth happily greeted.

"Students, if I may have your attention, please?" Headmistress Lovegood requested. "While Eliza will be attending classes here in the fall, she will be coming in for the rest of this school year to get her bearings as it were. She'll be tutored to get her up to speed for the next school year."

Everybody clapped in Elizabeth's honor.

"Now, onto another piece of business," Headmistress Lovegood continued. "As you know, over at Pepperton this year, they've been having a honorary Head Student on a weekly basis. This has been going on since the previous Head Student, Lady Amy O'Toole, graduated and became a teacher here at Hexley. But, the simple fact is, Pepperton needs a permanent Head Student from those who are full time Pepperton students here at Hexley. And a decision has been made."

Everybody grew silent, waiting in anticipation for Lovegood's announcement.

"Effective next week, the new Pepperton Head Student will be ... Ruby Hanshaw," Lovegood cheerfully announced.

Everybody clapped at the announcement.

"Oh, my goodness!" fifteen-year-old Ruby exclaimed with a mix of shock and happiness.

"Congratulations, Ruby!" sixteen-year-old Jade happily exclaimed as she hugged Ruby.

"Thank you, Jade," Ruby responded, pleased.

"I've got to be getting back to Royal Prep," Jade announced. "Like Sofia, Lucinda, Dorrie, Candice, and Abby, I attend Royal Prep on Tuesdays and Thursdays. I came in this morning to see Eliza's sorting. See you later, Head Student."

Ruby smiled at Jade's compliment as Jade headed back to Royal Prep. Sofia, Lucinda, Dorrie, Candice, and Abby also got up to return to Royal Prep.

"I'll see you guys at the castle this afternoon," Adair called out to Sofia, Lucinda, Dorrie, Candice, and Abby.

"That's right," Dorrie remembered. "You're being interviewed for the apprentice position Mr. Baileywick is offering."

"We'll keep our fingers crossed for you, Adair," Candice smiled. "We hope you get the position. You'd make a fine royal steward apprentice."

That afternoon

In the Hexley Hall library, ten-year-old Samantha "Sam" Cook was looking through the shelves when she came across a book she had never seen before. Since Headmistress Lovegood was nearby, Sam called Lovegood over.

"What is it, Sam?" Lovegood wanted to know.

"I found this book on the shelf," Sam started. "But, I've never seen it before."

"Let me see it," Lovegood requested as Sam handed over the book. Lovegood then opened the book, and went through it. "Yes, right," Lovegood responded, as if she were talking to the book.

"What?" Sam wanted to know.

"This book is The Hexoren, a powerful, living spell book," Lovegood reported.

"Living?" Sam asked, not fully understanding.

"There are magical books who have souls, and are living beings," Lovegood informed Sam.

"How did this book get to Hexley Hall?" Sam wanted to know.

"Probably through the magical school library exchange portal," Lovegood theorized. "The portal connects magical school libraries to each other. The portal is not for human use, just for books. Occasionally, a book will get sucked into the portal on its own, and wind up in another library. We'll have to return this book to its place of origin."

"And where would that be?" Sam inquired.

"The WITS Academy in North America," Lovegood answered. "WITS standing for witches and wizards in training. We'll need to return this book to that academy. For diplomatic reasons, we'll need to return the book in person."

"We?" Sam asked, taken off guard.

"You found the book, so you have the privilege of returning it to WITS Academy," Lovegood smiled. "I'll come along with you in an official capacity as Headmistress of Hexley Hall. We may be gone for a few days. We'll go to your parents, and tell them of the situation. At that same time, you can pack some things for a few days stay at WITS Academy."

"Yes, Miss Lovegood," Sam acknowledged as she followed Lovegood out of the library.

Later that afternoon, at Enchancia Castle, fifteen-year-old Adair Starwell arrived at the front gate on her broom. After being passed through the front gate by a guard, Adair walked up to the castle to find Baileywick waiting for her on the castle steps.

"Ah! Miss Starwell," Baileywick greeted with a smile. "If you'll come with me to my office, we'll get your interview started."

"Thank you, Mr. Baileywick," Adair happily acknowledged. "I want to thank you for considering me for the apprenticeship."

"You're very welcome, Miss Starwell," Baileywick said with a smile. "I hear good things about you."

As Baileywick led Adair into the castle, fifteen-year-old Valentina Androcasia walked up to the castle, and walked in. In a few minutes, Valentina walked up to the door that led to King Roland's study, and knocked on the door.

"Enter," Roland invited.

Valentina walked in, and found King Roland and her father, Eric Androcasia, talking to each other. Eric was Roland's royal lawyer.

"Welcome, Miss Androcasia," Roland smiled. "I hear you have quite the fascination with Enchancian history."

"Yes, Your Majesty," Valentina responded as she curtsied. "I love history, and Enchancian history is especially rich."

"Your father tells me you've built up quite a library of books about Enchancian history," Roland remarked.

"Yes, Your Majesty," Valentina confirmed. "I've gone through used book sales, and have gathered up a number of history books about Enchancia's past. Reading through these books, I can almost imagine myself being back in the past."

"I can see you really have a love of history, which is why I sent for you," Roland started. "Our royal historian, after many years of loyal service, is retiring at the end of the month. I need somebody to replace him, and the person I want ... is you."

"Oh, Your Majesty," Valentina responded, pleased. "Thank you."

"I'm the one who needs to thank you," Roland smiled. "You've impressed me with your love of Enchancian History. It's going to be wonderful having such a knowledgeable young woman as our royal historian. If you'll sit down, I'll fill you on what you'll be doing."

Roland went through the particulars with Valentina. How it would be an easy job, with Valentina only having to put in a few hours a week. Valentina would get her own office in the castle, and would also have a bedroom in the castle for those occasional times when she would need to stay for the night. Valentina would be responsible for maintaining historical documents, and doing historical research. Valentina would also be paid for her time, as it was a paid position.

"Oh, Valentina," Eric happily said as he hugged his daughter. "You've made me so proud."

Roland smiled at the touching scene as a knock came at the door.

"Come in," Roland invited.

The door opened, and in walked Bailyewick, followed by Adair.

"Your Majesty," Baileywick started, "I've found a very suitable royal steward apprentice."

"Excellent!" Roland exclaimed, pleased.

"Miss Starwell will start her paid apprenticeship this summer, and will be here Monday through Friday," Baileywick explained. "When school starts back up in the fall, she'll be here on weekends."

"I want to thank you and Mr. Baileywick for this opportunity," Adair said to Roland, grateful.

"You are very welcome, Miss Starwell," Roland smiled.

As Roland, Eric, and Baileywick stepped off to the side to talk to each other, Valentina walked over to Adair.

"Congratulations, Adair," Valentina happily said. "I know you've been interested in royal service for a while now. Looks like we both struck it lucky."

"What did you get?" Adair asked, curious.

"The position of royal historian," Valentina smiled.

"That's wonderful," Adair said, pleased, as the two hugged. "I guess we'll be seeing each other around the castle."

"I guess we will," Valentina happily responded.

May 21, 1869

It was a Friday morning at Hexley Hall. In the great hall, as the students were having breakfast, Deputy Headmaster Yuki Moto stood before the students.

"If I may have your attention for a moment?" Yuki requested. "I just wanted to let you know that Headmistress Lovegood and Samantha Cook will be away for a few days on school business. While Headmistress Lovegood is away, I'll be in charge of Hexley Hall. Any official school business that would have been been directed toward Headmistress Lovegood should be directed my way for the time being. Thank you for your attention. Please continue with your breakfast."

With that, Yuki walked away as the students talked among themselves. At the Pepperton table, Dorrie, Candice, Abby, Marie, Sofia, Lucinda, Jade, Ruby, and Elizabeth talked among themselves.

"Where's Timothy this morning?" Elizabeth asked.

"He has a special arrangement," Sofia answered. "Timothy, to focus on his magical education, attends Hexley Hall Monday through Thursday. Since he's a noble by adoption, he attends Royal Prep on Fridays."

"The truth be known," Marie started, "he goes to Royal Prep so he can take part in the Royal Prep choir run by your adoptive father, Sir Maxwell."

"That sounds interesting," Elizabeth commented. "I didn't know Royal Prep had a choir."

"A very good one," Jade happily spoke up.

"Chances are you'll be attending Royal Prep on a part-time basis next school year," Abby pointed out. "You should check out the choir when you're there."

"Me? Go to Royal Prep?" Elizabeth asked, puzzled.

"Well, your adoptive father is nobility, so that makes Marcy nobility, and you nobility as well," Dorrie informed Elizabeth.

"And I overheard Sir Maxwell and Marcy talking," Candice added. "Sir Maxwell would like you to attend Royal Prep on a part-time basis, and Marcy agreed."

"This is all so new to me," Elizabeth said, dazed.

"Don't worry," Lucinda assured Elizabeth. "You'll get along there just fine."

"Lucinda's right," Ruby agreed.

Those at the Pepperton table continued to talk among themselves, having a pleasant conversation, while enjoying a good breakfast.

Later that morning, in Magician Arts class, Professor Oxana Hauntley was starting class when Elizabeth walked in.

"Miss Chadwick, isn't it?" Oxana asked Elizabeth.

"Yes, ma'am," Elizabeth answered. "If you don't mind, I thought I'd audit your class. I find the subject of Magician Arts to be interesting."

"Please, come in," Oxana invited with a smile. "There's an empty desk and chair next to Kirk Winston."

"Thank you, ma'am," Elizabeth smiled back as she took a seat next to Kirk.

As Elizabeth sat down, a book she was carrying dropped from her hand by accident.

"Here," Kirk smiled as he got up. "I'll get it for you."

Kirk picked up the book, and handed it back to Elizabeth.

"Thank you," Elizabeth said, grateful.

"You're welcome," Kirk smiled. "Welcome to Hexley Hall."

Kirk and Elizabeth smiled at each other as two ghosts watched in the background - the original Alexander Pepperton, and Kate Kennicot.

"I'd say young Kirk is attracted toward our new student, Eliza," Alexander said to Kate.

"Indeed," Kate smiled. "And I'd say that Eliza is showing signs of being attracted to Kirk. Know what we should do?"

"What, my dear Kate?" Alexander asked.

"We should act as matchmakers," Kate suggested. "I think Kirk and Eliza would make a nice couple. And, that would give them something we never had in life - an opportunity to be together."

"You're right, my dear," Alexander agreed. "We keep an eye on them, see how the relationship develops, and then give them encouragement when the time is right."

May 24, 1869

It was now Monday morning, At Hexley Hall, the students and staff were in the great hall having breakfast. At the Pepperton table, Sam, having returned home the day before with Headmistress Lovegood, was recounting what happened at WITS Academy.

"It was a very interesting place," Sam started. "Before we knew it, me and Headmistress Lovegood got caught up in an adventure there. The book I found in our library, the Hexoren, belonged to a girl named Andrea Futura Doctora Cruz, also known by her nickname, Andi."

"Sounds interesting," Dorrie remarked. "Please continue."

"Once me and Headmistress Lovegood arrived at WITS Academy, we met the WITS Academy Headmaster, a man named Agamemnon, who informed us that Andi had been put under a sleeping spell that becomes unbreakable after one week," Sam continued. "Agamemnon took us to his office where some of Andi's friends were keeping watch over her - Emma Alonso, known as the Chosen One; Maddie Van Pelt; Ben Davis; Jax Novoa; Jax's younger sister, Jessie; and Diego Rueda, who is a Churi Kanay, which is a fancy name for a portal and element manipulator."

Everybody at the Pepperton table listened in interest as Sam continued the story.

"Andi, in her sleep, revealed that a guardian named Ruby put her under the spell," Sam reported. "At that time, Emma recounted that guardians are witches and warlocks who don't have powers, and everybody watching over Andi then wondered how Ruby got magic powers. Getting back to Andi, I suggested that perhaps an act of true love could break the spell. Maddie was unsure of the idea, saying that such things only happen in fairy tales. Since Andi could communicate in her sleep, I asked her who her boyfriend was. In her sleep, Andi said that her boyfriend was named Luke Archer."

Sam took a drink of milk, then went on telling the story.

"I went off to find Luke," Sam said as she went on with the story. "I managed to find him, and I told him what was going on. Luke came to the rescue by kissing Andi, thus breaking the spell before the week was up."

"What happened next?" Candice wanted to know.

"I returned the Hexoren to Andi," Sam smiled. "In gratitude, Andi saw to it that we got a similar book in return. That book will be placed in the reference section of our Hexley Hall library."

"Nice," Abby remarked, impressed.

"Anything else happen there?" Jade wanted to know.

"That was pretty much it," Sam answered. "An investigation is underway as to what happened at WITS Academy. That's all I know right now."

That afternoon, at Scarlett's palace in Cinnibar, Faith raced into Scarlett's study.

"What is it, Faith?" Scarlett asked, concerned.

"Crimson Force agents have picked up some information, Mom," Faith reported. "Lovisa has found out that Leanne is here in Cinnibar, and she's sent an assassin to kill Leanne."

"I never could pull one over on you or Crimson Force," Scarlett remarked. "I should have known that you would find out Leanne was here."

"Sorry, Mom," Faith apologized. "Guess you taught me a bit too well."

"And for that, I'm proud," Scarlett smiled. "What else do you know about this assassin?"

"Only that it is a woman," Faith indicated.

"Put the palace guards on alert," Scarlett directed. "I have to see Leanne. Meanwhile, get Colette and Hematite. I want the three of you to meet me in the throne room."

"Yes, Mom," Faith acknowledged.

Scarlett walked to a room in the palace where Leanne was staying.

"What is it, Queen Scarlett?" Leanne wanted to know.

"Your sister has found out you're here in Cinnibar," Scarlett informed Leanne. "She's sending an assassin to kill you."

"I should have expected as much," Leanne remarked. "I know this is a lot to ask, but let me have my powers back so I can defend myself."

"Very well," Scarlett agreed. "Hold out your wrist."

Leanne held out her wrist, as Scarlett took hold of the bracelet on Leanne's wrist. Scarlett concentrated, and a bright glow surrounded the bracelet for a few moments. The bracelet then dropped from Leanne's wrist.

"It is done," Scarlett announced. "You have your powers again. Here is your wand."

"Thank you, Queen Scarlett," Leanne said, grateful. "Now what?"

"Come with me," Scarlett directed.

In a few minutes, Scarlett and Leanne arrived in the throne room of the palace. Scarlett walked up to her throne, and sat down, while Faith, Colette, and Hematite stood at Scarlett's side. Leanne stood in front of Scarlett's throne nervously as Scarlett and company looked down on her.

"Leanne," Scarlett started. "I am taking a big risk by allowing you into my company knowing your past history."

"My sister wants to murder me," Leanne pointed out. "What more do you need to prove that I'm against her?"

"Insurance," Scarlett revealed as she walked down to Leanne's level and looked Leanne in the eye sternly. "Unbreakable vow. You and me. Right now."

"What?!" Leanne gasped as Scarlett nodded.

"Your sister is guilty of numerous crimes worthy of the death penalty and you've been involved in some of them. Allowing you into this with the chance for you to weasel your way back to her is a risk that I'm not willing to take. So you can either make the vow or I can strip you of your powers again and dump you right back to that prison in Wendarby where you came from. Your choice."

"Okay," Leanne sighed as she took Scarlett's wrist and Scarlett took Leanne's in a snake-like grasp.

Scarlett turned to Hematite and nodded. "Do the honors."

Hematite walked down and prepared her wand against their clasped wrists.

"Leanne, do you swear to defend Cinnibar against your sister's forces for as long as you shall live?"

"I swear," Leanne pledged as Hematite tapped her wand against their wrists, a small wisp of flame circling them.

"Do you swear that you will not betray Cinnibar and her people or rejoin your sister's evil forces again?"

"I swear," Leanne again pledged as Hematite repeated the process.

"And lastly, do you swear that you will never take anything for your own personal gain or pride for as long as you shall live?"

"I swear," Leanne gulped as Hematite tapped their wrists one last time, binding the vow.

"Understand, Leanne," Scarlett said as she stood up. "If you go back on your word to me, the penalty is instantaneous death."

"I understand," Leanne acknowledged. "Since I am now in your company, allow me to gain your trust by offering you information of interest."

"What information would that be?" Scarlett asked, curious.

"I can direct you to the hidden location of a very important magical book," Leanne revealed. "It is called the Book of Life, and it contains information about the origins of witches, vampires, and daemons. Better you have it than Lovisa."

"Why would you do this?" Faith asked Leanne.

"Because, when I found the book a long time ago, I realized it's importance, and that it shouldn't be in the wrong hands," Leanne answered. "I had it hidden away under the watchful eyes of two people I've come to trust. Now I realize that it can finally be transported to an even safer location - your palace here in Cinnibar."

"Where is this book hidden?" Scarlett wanted to know.

"In a place where nobody would ever think to look," Leanne smiled.

That night, in the courtyard of Scarlett's palace, Leanne stood looking at the palace walls. As Leanne stood, Scarlett and Faith were hiding behind a bush.

"You're using Leanne as bait," Faith theorized.

"More like testing out a theory," Scarlett revealed. "I have a gut feeling there's more to Leanne's powers than she's been letting on to us."

In a few minutes, a woman snuck up behind Leanne.

"Leanne Dorasha," the woman announced. "Your sister, Lovisa, has ordered your execution. We can't have you divulging sensitive information to the enemy."

Leanne slowly turned around, with her wand in her hand. "It's a little late for that," Leanne grinned.

"What?!" the woman exclaimed, taken off guard.

Leanne quickly raised her wand, and concentrated. A ring of fire suddenly appeared around the woman.

"What is this?!" the woman demanded to know in shock.

"A little something I've been saving for a rainy day," Leanne revealed. Leanne then concentrated. In a few moments, the woman was sucked into the earth, and the ring of fire disappeared.

"Holy cats!" Faith exclaimed in shock.

"Queen Scarlett," Leanne called out. "Our intruder is dealt with."

"Nicely done," Scarlett said, impressed, as she walked up with Faith.

"Thank you, my Queen," Leanne acknowledged as she bowed.

May 29, 1869

It was a Saturday morning at Enchancia Castle. In King Roland's study, Roland and Lucinda were having a conversation.

"I want to thank you once again for getting my birth parents estate back," Lucinda smiled in happiness.

"It was my pleasure," Roland smiled back. "Meanwhile, I have news about Wendarby, and I wanted you to be among the first to hear it."

"What news, Dad?" Lucinda asked, curious.

"As you know, Wendarby is getting back on its feet," Roland started. "A proposal has been made, and the Enchancian Council has approved it."

"And what proposal would that be?" Lucinda inquired.

"That a magical school for witches and warlocks be built in Wendarby," Roland announced. "It will be called the Wendarby Institute, and it will be a partner school to Hexley Hall. The Wendarby Institute will have a magical portal that will connect it to Hexley Hall, so that students from both schools can attend classes at both schools."

"That's wonderful, Dad!" Lucinda exclaimed in happiness. "It will be such a wonderful addition to Wendarby."

At that moment, Baileywick entered Roland's study.

"King Roland, Princess Lucinda," Baileywick started as he bowed. "The two of you wanted to be informed when Elizabeth's ladyship ceremony would start. It will be starting in the ballroom in fifteen minutes."

"Thank you, Baileywick," Roland happily acknowledged as he turned to Lucinda. "Shall we?"

"Yes, please," Lucinda smiled as she, Roland, and Baileywick walked out of the study.

In a few minutes, the three arrived in the ballroom, with Roland and Lucinda taking a place next to Miranda, Sofia, Amber, and James. Gathered in the ballroom were Elizabeth, Marcy, Sir Maxwell, and various members of the Chadwick family. In a few moments, a woman in her 60s stepped forward. The woman was Millicent Chadwick, mother of Sir Maxwell and matriarch of the Chadwick family.

"Elizabeth," Millicent smiled. "Please come forward."

Elizabeth stepped forward, and faced Millicent.

"Elizabeth," Millicent began, "it is my honor to confer onto you the rank of Lady. From this point forward, you will be known as Lady Elizabeth West-Chadwick of House Chadwick. Welcome to our family."

"Thank you, Grandmother Millicent," Elizabeth smiled. "I hope it's okay to call you Grandmother?"

"It's more than okay," Millicent smiled back. "It's wonderfully perfect."

Millicent and Elizabeth then hugged each other in happiness, as everybody clapped at the touching scene. Afterward, everybody representing the Chadwick family had a wonderful time getting to know Elizabeth. Later on, when everybody broke off into small groups to talk to each other, Elizabeth, Marcy, and Maxwell stood together.

"Mom, Dad," Elizabeth started. "Since I'm living here in the castle, there is something I've been giving thought to."

"What, sweetheart?" Marcy asked.

"I'm very grateful to be here," Elizabeth revealed. "And I want to pitch in around here ... if that's allowed?"

"What did you have in mind, dear Elizabeth?" Maxwell wanted to know.

Elizabeth looked across the ballroom to where Dorrie, Candice, Abby, and Marie were putting refreshments on a table. "I want to be like them."

"You want to be a maid?" Marcy smiled.

"Yes," Elizabeth confirmed.

"An honorable profession," Maxwell approved. "Your mother is a maid, and a fine one at that."

Marcy smiled at Maxwell's compliment.

"What would I have to do to become one?" Elizabeth wanted to know.

"You'd have to start off as a maid in training," Marcy answered. "I can speak to Mr. Baileywick about it. I'm sure he would be agreeable."

"Thank you, Mom," Elizabeth happily said as she hugged Marcy.

"You're very welcome, sweetheart," Marcy smiled as she returned the hug.

At that moment, King Roland stepped out onto the ballroom floor.

"If I may have your attention, please?" Roland requested as he raised his glass. "I'd like to propose a toast to the castle's newest resident, Lady Elizabeth."

"To Lady Elizabeth," everybody chanted as they raised their glasses.

Elizabeth smiled in happiness at the toast. It was a wonderful day to be alive. Everything was right with the world.

(End of Chapter 35).

Behind the scenes

In this edition of "Behind the scenes", an updated list of magical schools that exist on Earth (from "Harry Potter", "Sofia the First", and "WITS Academy").

Beauxbatons Academy of Magic (Location: France) (From: "Harry Potter" - specifically, "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire").

Castelobruxo (Location: Amazon rainforest) (From: "Harry Potter" - specifically, the Pottermore website).

Durmstrang Institute (Location: Scandinavia) (From: "Harry Potter" - specifically, "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire").

Hexley Hall (Location: Kingdom of Enchancia) (From: "Sofia the First" - specifically, "Hexley Hall" and "Day of the Sorcerers").

Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry (Location: Scotland) (From: "Harry Potter").

Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry (Location: Mount Greylock, North America) (From: "Harry Potter" - specifically, the Pottermore website).

Institute for Science and Alchemy (Location: unknown) (From: "Sofia the First" - specifically, "The Royal School Fair").

Koldovstoretz (Location: Russia) (From: "Harry Potter" - specifically, the Pottermore website).

Mahoutokoro School of Magic (Location: Japan) (From: "Harry Potter" - specifically, the Pottermore website).

Uagadou School of Magic (Location: Uganda) (From: "Harry Potter" - specifically, the Pottermore website).

Royal Prep (Location: Kingdom of Enchancia) (From: "Sofia the First") (Note: while not technically a magical school, Royal Prep does offer many magical courses, so I'm including it on this list).

The Wendarby Institute (Location: Village of Wendarby in the Kingdom of Enchancia) (From: "Sofia the First" - specifically, this chapter of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia") (Notes: in the process of being built. Like Hexley Hall and Hogwarts, the Wendarby Institute will have its own school houses).

Wandlight Academy (Location: Kingdom of Wuton) (From: "Sofia the First" - specifically, SailorWednesdayMercury's story "From Villager To Princess Book 2").

WITS Academy (Location: North America) (From: "WITS Academy").

Author's notes

Adair Starwell being an apprentice royal steward puts her in line to become royal steward when Baileywick retires (as seen in Chapter 5 of my story "Witch Tales").

Elizabeth West-Chadwick, Hematite, Kirk Winston, Lady Louisa Windson-Pepperton, Marie Perkins, Samantha "Sam" Cook, Sir Alexander Pepperton the Second, Timothy O'Toole, and Yuki Moto are characters created by MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury, and are used in this story with the permission of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

Elizabeth's nickname of Eliza was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

Faith (Scarlett's adopted daughter) is an earlier version of Faith seen in the "Torchwood" episodes "Dead Man Walking" and "Fragments".

Having a developing relationship between Kirk and Elizabeth was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury. Meanwhile, having the ghosts of the original Alexander Pepperton, and Kate Kennicot, act as matchmakers for Kirk and Elizabeth was also the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

Having Elizabeth attend Royal Prep was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

I want to thank MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury for helping with Sam's retelling of the adventure at WITS Academy.

Leanne placing a ring of fire around the assassin sent to kill her, and sucking the assassin into the earth, was inspired by the same magic used by the Finnish witch Satu Järvinen in the first episode of the TV series "A Discovery of Witches".

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".

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

Queen Iracebeth (The Red Queen) is from Tim Burton's "Alice in Wonderland".

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

Sam finding the Hexoren, and traveling to WITS Academy to return it, was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury. Having Headmistress Lovegood travel to WITS Academy with Sam was an idea I added in.

The Book of Life (A.K.A. Ashmole 782) is an earlier version of the Book of Life from the novel "A Discovery of Witches", and later from the TV series version of "A Discovery of Witches".

The Hexley Hall sorting hat is based on the Hogwarts sorting hat seen in "Harry Potter".

The Hexoren, and WITS Academy, are originally from the Nickelodeon TV series "WITS Academy". The Hexoren, WITS Academy, and those at WITS Academy are "Sofia the First" versions, separate from the originals seen in the "WITS Academy" TV series.

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

The magical school library exchange portal is something I created for this chapter. It is something like the Floo Network from "Harry Potter", only for books.

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).

The scene in Roland's study with Sir Alexander and Lady Louisa was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury in order to give a plot twist to this chapter. Since MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury's idea involved Elizabeth eventually staying at Enchancia Castle with Maxwell and Marcy, I decided to bring in Queen Melinda to make sure that would happen.

The scene with Amber and James in the castle sitting room was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

The scene with Scarlett freeing Leanne from jail was the idea of Ben10Man (who supplied the bulk of the dialog for that scene). I added in the part about Scarlett asking Leanne whether or not she had a direct hand in killing Elizabeth's parents (I wanted to add something in order to round out the scene).

The scene with Scarlett, Leanne, and the unbreakable vow was the idea of Ben10Man (who supplied the bulk of the dialog for that scene). I added in the part about the Book of Life to round out that scene, and to set up a side plot for Chapter 36 of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia".

The unbreakable vow is originally from "Harry Potter".

Valentina becoming royal historian was the idea of Brigade701.

Disclaimer

"A Discovery of Witches" and everything associated with it © Deborah Harkness, Penguin Books, Bad Wolf, Sky Productions, Sky Vision, and Sky One.

Elizabeth West-Chadwick, Hematite, Kirk Winston, Lady Louisa Windson-Pepperton, Marie Perkins, Samantha "Sam" Cook, Sir Alexander Pepperton the Second, Timothy O'Toole, Yuki Moto, 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.

Queen Melinda 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).

"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 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, Adair Starwell, Candice Cosmarune-Cooper, Crimson Force, Dorrie Cosmarune-Cooper, Enchancian Intelligence, Eric Androcasia, Gayle Lovegood, Kate Kennicot, Leanne, Lovisa, Lovisa's assassin, Millicent Chadwick, Mrs. Tweedle, Neila, the magical school library exchange portal, the original Alexander Pepperton, the Village of Wendarby, the Wendarby Institute, and Valentina Androcasia.