Once Upon a Time in Enchancia Chapter 42: A Time of Joy, a sofia the first fanfic

Once Upon a Time in Enchancia

Welcome to Chapter 42 of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia". Song in this chapter: a slightly rewritten version of the Enchancian anthem from "Sofia the First".

Chapter 42: A Time of Joy

August 28, 1869

Dorrie Cosmarune-Cooper personal diary entry: Saturday, August 28, 1869.

Another summer vacation is rapidly wrapping up. And a good summer it's been. There are now four of us as royal magicians. Early this summer, Abby was appointed to be a royal magician. There are now two teams of royal magicians: me and Candice, and Abby and Calista. Both of our teams had a good time occasionally traveling around Enchancia, entertaining at carnivals, fairs, and charity events. The people love our performances, and it's a pleasure being able to perform in front of audiences.

Here at the castle, Duchess Tilly, Sir Bartelby, and Madeline are now temporarily living at the castle as the Duchess is approaching the final stages of her pregnancy. Madeline over the summer adopted a dog: a female brown Labrador Retriever named Genevieve. Madeline and Genevieve have become the best of friends, and Genevieve will be Madeline's helper animal once school begins.

Speaking of school, there has been a new addition to the Hexley Hall staff. Our old custodian has retired, and has been replaced by a young man from the Kingdom of Galdiz, one of a number of new arrivals from Galdiz who have settled in Enchancia.

At Hexley Hall, Headmistress Lovegood approached the custodian's workshop. As she entered the workshop, she heard the custodian talking to his tools, and the tools talking back to him. Talking tools? Well, that wasn't surprising. The tools were enchanted, and talked and moved on their own.

"Good morning, Manny," Lovegood smiled as she greeted the new custodian, a white skinned young man with brown hair and wearing a white and orange cap.

"Hola, Headmistress," Manny smiled back. Hola was Spanish for hello. "What may we do for you?"

"There's a cabinet in the Herbology lecture hall that needs fixing," Lovegood explained. "I'd like to have that fixed before classes begin."

"Not a problem, Headmistress Lovegood," Manny promised. "I'll just need to go into the village and pick up some lumber. My friend, Kelly Crenshaw, owns a hardware store there."

"Ah, yes," Lovegood remembered. "I met her recently, and set up an account for Hexley Hall. Get whatever you need."

"Thank you, Headmistress," Manny acknowledged with a smile as Lovegood left. Manny then turned to his tools. "Well, tools," Manny instructed. "Time to go."

Felipe (a phillips-head screwdriver), Flicker (a lantern), Turner (a flat-head screwdriver), Pat (a hammer), Dusty (a hand saw), Squeeze (a pair of pliers), Stretch (a tape measure), and Rusty (a monkey wrench) all hopped into Manny's wooden toolbox. Manny then carried the toolbox out to a horse drawn wagon which was available for his use.

Meanwhile, at Enchancia Castle, in the castle sitting room, sixteen-year-old Sofia, sixteen-year-old Lucinda, sixteen-year-old Dorrie, and sixteen-year-old Candice were having a conversation as Dorrie and Candice were doing some light cleaning.

"Well, school starts on Wednesday," Sofia announced. "I'm looking forward to getting back to Hexley Hall."

"As am I," Lucinda smiled. "All I have to do now is to attend Hexley Hall Elective Day on Monday. I need one elective this year."

"So do I," Candice spoke up.

"Any ideas?" Dorrie asked, curious.

"I'm leaning toward a new class: Non-Magical Defensive Training," Lucinda answered. "It was just posted about a week ago."

"I've heard it involves non-magical weapons such as pistols and swords," Candice revealed. "I'm looking into it as well."

"Sounds interesting," Sofia admitted. "As Protectors, the four of us might do well to sign up for it."

"My thoughts exactly, Sof," Dorrie agreed. "It's always good to have an extra advantage."

"I think we have a plan, then," Lucinda confirmed.

September 1, 1869

It was a Wednesday morning in Enchancia. At Hexley Hall, in the great hall, the students and teachers sat waiting for Headmistress Lovegood to arrive. The students were ready for the new school year, with their class schedules in hand. That past Monday, the students had attended the Hexley Hall Elective Day, and had picked their elective classes. Every student was good to go.

In a few moments, Lovegood walked up, and stood before everybody gathered.

"Welcome to a new year at Hexley Hall," Lovegood smiled. "First of all, let me introduce you to our new new staff members. Teaching our new Non-Magical Defensive Training class is none other than Queen Scarlett of Cinnibar. Meanwhile, our new Wand Combat teacher is Miss Leanne Dorasha. And finally, our new custodian is Manny Garcia who comes to us from Galdiz."

Everybody in the great hall clapped in support of the new staff members.

"Next," Lovegood continued, "we have some new students joining us this year. Let us begin, shall we? Lady Madeline, please step forward."

Fifteen-year-old Madeline stepped forward, and sat on a stool as Lovegood put the Hexley Hall sorting hat on Madeline's head.

"Ah, yes!" the sorting hat exclaimed in acknowledgment. "It's all right here in your head. Hard work, patience, justice, and loyalty. There's only one place for you. Kennicot!"

Everybody cheered as Madeline walked over to the Kennicot House table. As Madeline sat at the table, the Kennicot students warmly greeted Madeline.

"Welcome to Kennicot!" sixteen-year-old Princess Aileen warmly greeted Madeline. "You're gonna love it here."

"Welcome, Lady Madeline," sixteen-year-old Valentina Androcasia smiled at Madeline.

"Thank you," Madeline smiled back. "And, it's just Madeline."

"Then Madeline it is," sixteen-year-old Lily MacRaven cheerfully acknowledged, as eleven-year old Lisa Elodie, and ten-year-old Samantha "Sam" Cook warmly smiled at Madeline.

Lovegood looked at the next name on her list. "Makayla Anderson, please step forward."

Sixteen-year-old Makayla stepped forward, and sat on the stool that Madeline had sat on. Lovegood then put the sorting hat on Makayla's head.

"Yes, yes," the sorting hat commented. "It's all very clear. Intelligence, creativity, learning, and wit. But where to put you? You'll want to be with friends, of course. Therefore, better put you in ... Waldgrave!".

Everybody cheered as Makayla walked over to the Waldgrave House table, and took a seat.

"Welcome, Makayla," seventeen-year-old Rachel Harris, one of Makayla's friends, warmly greeted.

"Hey! Ray-Ray!" Noah Harris, Rachel's younger brother, cheerfully said to Rachel. "Makayla made it to Waldgrave. Congrats to Makayla."

"You're gonna love it here at Waldgrave," sixteen-year-old Holly, another of Makayla's friends, smiled at Makayla.

"Thanks, guys," Makayla smiled back at Rachel, Noah, and Holly.

"We have royalty here at Waldgrave as well," Rachel cheerfully announced. "We have Prince Desmond of Montrella, Princess Faith of Cinnibar, and Princess Sandra of Orillia."

"Prince, Princesses," Makayla respectfully acknowledged with a nod.

"We're all quite informal here," sixteen-year-old Desmond informed Makayla. "Just call me Des."

"And just call me Faith," twelve-year-old looking Faith smiled.

"And just call me Sandra," sixteen-year-old Sandra cheerfully requested. "I'd like to introduce you to two additional members of Waldgrave House: Gracie Bryant, and Matilda Honey."

"Welcome to Waldgrave," sixteen-year-old Gracie smiled at Makayla.

"It's nice having you here," sixteen-year-old Matilda cheerfully added, as she used her mind to bring a glass of orange juice over to her.

"How did you do that?" Makayla asked Matilda, impressed.

"Our Matilda is a Minder," Sandra smiled at Makayla.

"I can move things with my mind," Matilda informed Makayla. "Sorry if I took you off guard."

"No, that's quite all right," Makayla said in a reassuring voice. "That was impressive!"

As those at the Waldgrave table happily talked to each other, more new students were sorted into their houses. Afterward, it was time for some Hexley Hall news.

"If I may have your attention?" Lovegood requested. "Our Deputy Headmaster, Yuki Moto, has some news he'd like to share."

"Thank you, Headmistress," Yuki smiled as he stepped forward. Yuki then turned to those gathered. "I'm proud to announce that my wife, Silvia, gave birth a while ago to twins: a boy and a girl. I'm also proud to announce that my wife will now be returning to you as your Herbology teacher."

Everybody clapped in celebration as Silvia walked up, pushing a double stroller.

"It's good to be back," Silvia happily announced. "Before I do anything else, I want to thank Amy O'Toole for filling in for me during my absence. She did a wonderful job as a Herbology teacher, and I shall be forever grateful to her for filling in."

Everybody clapped in Amy's honor as Amy stood up.

"And now," Silvia smiled, "you'll want to be meeting our baby boy and our baby girl."

Silvia reached into the double stroller, and gently picked up her baby boy.

"This, dear friends, is our son, Rackal," Silvia happily announced as she gently held up Rackal for everybody to see.

Everybody in the great hall smiled at the sight of the precious baby boy. Silvia then gently placed Rackal back in the double stroller, then gently brought out her baby girl.

"And this, dear friends, is our daughter, Kindra," Silvia smiled as she gently held up Kindra for everybody to see.

Everybody in the great hall, as they did with Rackal, smiled at the sight of the precious baby girl. Silvia then gently placed Kindra back in the double stroller with Rackal.

"You'll be seeing more of our precious babies," Silvia announced. "I'm taking a page out of Boris and Oxana Hauntley's book, and will be having Rackal and Kindra come to classes with me, as the Hauntley's have their young daughter, Vampirina, come to classes with them."

Everybody clapped in joy at the news.

"I'd also like to thank Lady Violet and her daughters, Lady Dorrie and Lady Candice, for being there when I gave birth," Silvia happily added. "Lady Violet is a fine midwife, and Lady Dorrie and Lady Candice are fine midwives in training. I was in wonderful hands. In fact, Lady Dorrie and Lady Candice are sitting at the Pepperton table as I speak. Come on, you two. Stand up."

Everybody happily clapped as Dorrie and Candice stood up.

"Lady Violet, Lady Dorrie, and Lady Candice are going to deliver my Mom's baby when it's her time," Madeline announced to those sitting at the Kennicot table.

"That's right," Lily remembered. "Duchess Tilly is your mom. A nice lady. Indigo and I have met her from time to time when we've gone to the castle to visit Lucindy."

"Your mom is going to be in good hands," Valentina smiled at Madeline.

Madeline smiled back at Lily and Valentina, appreciative of their kind words.

Later that morning

Later that morning at Hexley Hall, sixteen-year-old Dorrie was walking near the Hexley Hall Tourney field when she saw sixteen-year-old Derek Von Schroedor having a discussion with Tourney coach Shang. Derek had not only lost his Captain's position on the team the previous school year, but had also been kicked off of the team when he injured Lita Mizuki on purpose.

"Coach Shang," Derek began. "I'd really like a chance to be put back on the team, and I'd like to be Captain again."

"I'm sorry Mr. Von Schroeder," Coach Shang started, "but my decision is final. I stripped you of your Captain's rank, and threw you off the team for dishonorable conduct. I can't have such a person on the team."

"You'd keep a female on the team as Captain?!" Derek asked, getting angry. "Females have no place in Tourney!"

"I've met your type before," Shang pointed out, getting annoyed. "You think females have no place beyond the kitchen. Well, let me tell you something, Mr. Von Schroeder. My wife, Mulan, faced down Shan-Yu and his Huns with a determination of ten men. No, make that a hundred men. Not bad for a female, huh?"

Derek stormed off, having been bested. As he stormed past Dorrie, he stared her down angrily.

"What are you looking at, you Cosmarune freak?!" Derek barked at Dorrie.

"Nothing much, really," Dorrie responded.

Derek balled up his fist in anger, as Dorrie transformed into her werewolf form, growling at Derek in the process. Derek brought up his fist to hit Dorrie, as Dorrie used one of her werewolf hands to smack Derek, throwing Derek to the ground. Derek quickly got up, and made a hasty retreat, knowing this was a battle he was going to lose if he kept fighting.

"Not bad, Lady Dorrie," Shang praised as he walked up, and gently patted Dorrie on the shoulder. "The transformation skills of you and your sister are truly impressive."

"Thank you, Coach Shang," Dorrie acknowledged as she transformed back into human form. "I suppose I'm in trouble for this?"

"No, not at all," Shang said in a reassuring voice. "Why would you be in trouble for taking the garbage out? You were simply defending yourself, and Mr. Von Schroeder had it coming."

"Most kind, sir," Dorrie said, relieved.

"Things are changing for women, Lady Dorrie," Shang kindly remarked. "My wife, by her actions, helped men to see women as equals. You and your sister, along with Lita Mizuki, are continuing that fine tradition. The future will be a brighter place because of it."

"Thank you," Dorrie said, appreciative.

"You're welcome," Shang smiled as a bell rang in the distance.

"That's the five minute warning bell," Dorrie remarked. "I'd best be off to my next class. Luckily, it's nearby on the maneuvers field."

"Have a good day, Lady Dorrie," Shang wished as Dorrie walked over to the maneuvers field.

As Dorrie walked onto the maneuvers field, she was met by sixteen-year-old Candice,

"What was going on with you and Von Schroeder?" Candice asked, curious.

"He was trying to worm his way back on the Tourney team," Dorrie answered. "Coach Shang was having no part of it. Derek stormed off in a huff, and came across me. He did his usual arrogant thing, and I had to put him in his place."

"You in trouble?" Candice wanted to know, concerned.

"No," Dorrie reassured Candice. "Coach Shang said I was simply defending myself."

"A good man," Candice smiled.

Dorrie looked over to see a huge number of Hexley Hall students standing there waiting for the Non-Magical Defensive Training class to begin. Among the students waiting for the class to begin was sixteen-year-old Lucinda; sixteen-year-old Sofia; sixteen-year-old Abby Murphy; sixteen-year-old Lita Mizuki; sixteen-year-old Elainna Marie Pearson; Elainna's sixteen-year old cousin, Anniale; seventeen-year-old Jade; sixteen-year-old Ruby; sixteen-year-old Indigo; sixteen-year-old Lily; nine-year-old Timothy O'Toole; ten-year-old Samantha "Sam" Cook (Timothy's girlfriend); ten-year-old Marie Perkins; nine-year-old Elizabeth West-Chadwick; nine-year-old Kirk Winston (Elizabeth's boyfriend); nine-year-old Nonya; nine-year-old Molly; eleven-year-old Lisa Elodie; and twelve-year-old Calista.

"Wow!" Dorrie said, impressed. "This is a big turnout."

"What can I say?" Candice observed. "People can't pass up the chance to train with Scarlett."

"I know we couldn't," sixteen-year-old Valentina Androcasia said as she walked up, followed by sixteen-year-old Adair Starwell, sixteen-year-old Matilda Honey, sixteen-year-old Gracie Bryant, and sixteen-year-old Desmond.

"Hey! Des!" Dorrie smiled. "Nice to see you here."

"What can I say?" Desmond responded with a smile. "I'm not the same afraid of his shadow kid I was."

"You've come far, Des," Candice acknowledged with praise.

At that moment, Scarlett walked up, with twelve-year-old looking Faith. As Scarlett looked at the huge number of students waiting, Scarlett was taken off guard.

"Holy cats!" Scarlett whispered to Faith. "I didn't know there would be this many students."

"What can I say, Mom?" Faith smiled. "People know a quality teacher when they see one."

Scarlett happily hugged Faith in gratitude. Faith then walked over, and joined the students waiting.

"Hello, and welcome to Non-Magical Defensive Training," Scarlett greeted those present. "Headmistress Lovegood felt that Hexley Hall students should be given the opportunity to learn non-magical defensive techniques. There are times where you'll need to use such techniques in place of using magic."

"Sorry I'm late, Queen Scarlett," sixteen-year-old Princess Sandra apologized as she raced up.

"You're just in time, Princess Sandra," Scarlett smiled. "It's nice to see you attending this class."

"I'm being trained as a knight of Orillia by the other knights of Orillia," Sandra smiled back. "I thought this class would add to my fighting skills."

Sandra walked over to the other students, and stood next to Sofia, Lucinda, Dorrie, and Candice.

"Nice to have you here, Sandra," Sofia smiled, as Lucinda, Dorrie, and Candice nodded in approval.

"It's great to be here," Sandra smiled back.

"Let us get started, shall we?" Scarlett suggested. "In this class, we'll explore a range of non-magical weapons, and how to use them. We'll cover everything from swords to daggers to Bo sticks to pistols."

"Queen Scarlett," nine-year-old Nonya started as she raised her hand. "Molly and I are already using Jo sticks, the smaller version of Bo sticks."

"Excellent!" Scarlett approved. "The two of you, as you grow taller with age, will find it an easy transition to change from Jo sticks to Bo sticks."

The rest of the class smiled at the happy scene.

"If everybody will sit down on the grass, we'll get started going over the various non-magical weapons available out there," Scarlett directed. "Please open your textbooks to page fourteen."

Meanwhile, at Enchancia Castle, Roland and Miranda were having a conversation in Roland's study.

"On Saturday the 18th, there will be an oath of allegiance ceremony for new citizens of the kingdom," Roland began. "Since the latest group of new citizens are from Galdiz, I thought you'd like the pleasure of hosting the ceremony."

"I'd love that, Rollie," Miranda smiled. "Galdiz is where I was born. It will be nice welcoming those from Galdiz to Enchancia."

"It's settled, then," Roland happily acknowledged as a knock came at the door. "Enter."

The door of Roland's study opened, and in walked Baileywick.

"King Roland," Baileywick announced. "The carriage you ordered is ready, and a picnic lunch has been placed aboard."

"Rollie?" Miranda asked, curious.

"I noticed that both of us have nothing on our schedules for the rest of the day," Roland smiled. "I thought we could take a carriage ride into the countryside, and have a picnic lunch."

"Oh, Rollie!" Miranda exclaimed, pleased. "That's so sweet."

"Shall we go, then?" Roland asked.

Miranda nodded her head yes. Roland gently took Miranda's arm, and the two happily walked out to the waiting carriage.

Lunch

At Hexley Hall, it was time for lunch. At the park which was between Hexley Hall and Royal Prep, the students from Scarlett's class decided to eat together. With them was seventeen-year-old Prince Frederick (sitting next to Dorrie) and sixteen-year-old Prince Everett (sitting next to Candice). Frederick and Everett had come over for lunch from Royal Prep.

"Sandra?" Sofia asked. "Before class began, Scarlett said something about a zombie infestation decades ago, and that those in Orillia fought bravely during it. Thing is, I've never heard about it."

"Not surprising," Sandra remarked. "It's something that was horrifying, and once it ended, people let it slip into history, not wanting to discuss it. I only found out about it from the knights of Orillia as part of my training."

"What exactly happened to cause it?" Sofia wanted to know.

"It started in the 1700s," Sandra explained. "In the great kingdom of Anglotopia, the kingdom was rich with the fruits of world wide trade. From around the world came not only silks and spices but also a nasty plague. Once bitten, the newly infected were filled with a desire to attack the living. Millions perished, only to rise again, as legions of undead. To protect the living in Anglotopia, the Grand Barrier was built, a one hundred foot wall, encircling the capital city of Londinium. Then excavation began on the royal canal, a vast mote thirty fathoms deep, surrounding both the city and its wall. The land between the city and the canal became known as The Inbetween."

As everybody listened in interest, Sandra continued the story. "In the second battle of Kent, one of the bridges that crossed the royal canal was breached. Ravenous zombie hordes massacred every villager of The Inbetween. It was said the sight of this slaughter drove the young king of Anglotopia mad. When the battle was finally won, he ordered the destruction of all the bridges, save one - Hingham Bridge. Many believed the zombies were finally vanquished. The gentry began to leave the safe confines of Londinium's defenses for their newly fortified country estates within The Inbetween. But, by the early 1800s, zombies reemerged to once again cause havoc. At one point, Hingham Bridge was blown up to prevent zombies from entering The Inbetween. While it saved Londinium and The Inbetween, it meant that what was left of the zombies went out into the world, and caused havoc in our kingdoms."

"So, what happened next?" Lucinda asked.

"Our kingdoms mounted their own defenses against the zombies," Sandra answered.

"Why do you think Enchancia Castle has a mote around it?" sixteen-year-old Valentina Androcasia revealed. "It didn't always have a mote."

Sofia and Lucinda were stunned by the revelation. But, of course, Valentina would know about such things as she had become royal historian back in May.

"The zombies raged across our kingdoms," Sandra explained. "Enchancia, Orillia, Ornburgh, and many other kingdoms were affected."

"However, we had an advantage," seventeen-year-old Prince Frederick added. "While there were many zombies, they were scattered in groups. Even though it took a few years, the forces of each kingdom were able to track down and eventually destroy the zombies, bringing an end to the danger once and for all."

"Things returned to normal across the world," Sandra continued. "In Anglotopia, Hingham Bridge was rebuilt, and across the world people resumed their lives as the zombie infestation passed into history."

Elsewhere at Hexley Hall, in the Hexley Hall custodian's workshop, Manny was having lunch when fifteen-year-old Madeline walked by, eating a sandwich.

"Oh," Madeline apologized from the doorway. "I didn't mean to disturb you. I was looking around Hexley Hall during my lunch break, and I lost my way."

"Hexley Hall can be confusing at first," Manny smiled. "Perhaps I can help. Please, come in, Miss?"

"Madeline," Madeline explained. "My father is Sir Bartelby, and my mother is Duchess Matilda. And this is my dog, Genevieve."

"Well, it's nice to meet you, Madeline," Manny happily said. "And, it's nice to meet you too, Genevieve. Please, sit down."

Madeline sat at the table where Manny was, as Genevieve (a brown Labrador Retriever) sat on the floor next to Madeline.

"It's nice of you to invite us in," Madeline gratefully said to Manny. "I was looking around for a place to feed Genevieve. I have her lunch in my bag."

"Then feel free to feed her here," Manny invited.

"Thank you," Madeline accepted as she laid out a cloth, some food, and some water for Genevieve. As Genevieve ate lunch, Madeline and Manny talked.

"How can such a small bag hold so much?" Manny asked Madeline about Madeline's bag.

"This is a gift from my mother," Madeline answered with a smile. "It's magical. It's bigger on the inside than on the outside."

"Very impressive," Manny remarked in awe. "I hear you're new here. I'm new here as well. I have something that will make life a little easier for you: a printed map of the school."

"I wouldn't want to take your map from you," Madeline said, concerned.

"No problem," Manny smiled. "I have a few copies here."

"Thank you, kind sir," Madeline smiled back. "This will help a lot."

"You're welcome," Manny said, pleased, as Manny's tools hopped over.

"Who is this?" Pat, Manny's hammer, asked.

"Talking tools?" Madeline asked, taken off guard.

"These are my tools ... and my friends," Manny explained in a reassuring voice. "They are enchanted. This is Pat, my hammer. And these are Felipe, my phillips-head screwdriver; Flicker, my lantern; Turner, my flat-head screwdriver; Dusty, my hand saw; Squeeze, my pair of pliers; Stretch, my tape measure; and Rusty, my monkey wrench. Tools, this is Madeline."

"Hi, Madeline," the tools happily greeted.

"A pleasure to meet you," Madeline smiled at Manny's tools.

Genevieve came over, and sniffed the tools in a friendly manner. Genevieve then gave out a happy bark, and returned to her lunch as Madeline and Manny smiled at the happy scene.

"I have other tools as well," Manny revealed as he motioned more tools to come forward. "These are Lefty, Lily, Junior, Ticks, and Totts, my wrenches. This is Pinzas, my needle nose pliers. This is Sneeze, my steam powered vacuum cleaner. And this is Spinner, my hand drill."

"Nice to meet you," Madeline smiled.

"Hi," the other tools cheerfully greeted Madeline.

Away from Hexley Hall, in the countryside of Enchancia, Roland and Miranda had picked a nice out of the way spot for their picnic. As the two sat on a picnic blanket, they enjoyed a lunch made up of pulled pork sandwiches, potato salad, oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, and some soft drinks.

"This is so enjoyable, Rollie," Miranda said in joy.

"I'm glad you like it, Miranda," Roland responded, pleased. "I've been wanting to do this for a while now."

Roland and Miranda had a wonderful time enjoying the picnic lunch, and talking. After eating, Miranda laid her head in Roland's lap, and the two looked up at the clouds in the sky.

"That one looks like a turtle," Miranda said of one of the clouds.

"And that one looks like a dragon," Roland remarked, looking at another cloud.

Roland and Miranda spent the afternoon looking up at the clouds. It was an enjoyable way of spending some free time together.

Paranormal Training class

At Hexley Hall, it was the final class period of the day. In Boris Hauntley's Paranormal Training class, students started coming in. Among those coming in was Madeline and Genevieve. As Madeline sat down at a desk, Genevieve sat down next to Madeline. At that same time, sixteen-year-old Elainna Marie Pearson came in with her male Russian Blue cat, Shade, who looked nervous at the sight of Madeline's dog.

"It's okay," Madeline reassured Elainna and Shade. "Genevieve gets along well with cats. In fact, her and the cats at Enchancia Castle get along famously. By the way, I'm Madeline."

"I'm Elainna Marie Pearson," Elainna smiled. "And this is my cat, Shade."

"Nice to meet the two of you," Madeline smiled back, as Genevieve got up and sniffed Shade in a friendly manner. Shade, sensing that Genevieve wasn't a threat, extended his paw, and gently rested it on Genevieve's nose as a friendly greeting.

"They like each other!" Elainna said in glee. "My cousin, Anniale, has a female Russian Blue cat named Smoke. They should be here any moment."

At that moment, Anniale walked in with her cat, and Elainna happily waved them over.

"Madeline," Elainna started. "This is my cousin, Anniale, and her cat, Smoke."

"A pleasure to meet you, Anniale," Madeline smiled. "And a pleasure to meet you, Smoke."

Genevieve and Smoke sniffed each other in a friendly manner, as Smoke put her paw on Genevieve's paw as a sign of friendship. Boris Hauntley then entered the classroom.

"Good afternoon, students," Boris cheerfully greeted. "Welcome to Paranormal Training. I'm your teacher, Mr. Hauntley. If you'll take your seats, we'll get started."

The students took their seats, and each student's helper animal sat down next to his or her student.

"I see all of you have your helper animals here," Boris noticed. "I'd like to show you how animals are very sensitive to the paranormal."

Boris snapped his fingers, then waited for something to happen. In a few moments, the helper animals started looking toward the side of the room, as if they were looking at something. The students, on the other hand, didn't see anything. Suddenly, a blue blob of a ghost appeared out of thin air.

"Good afternoon," the ghost spoke with a male voice. "My name is Demi, and it's a pleasure to meet each and every one of you."

"Good afternoon, Demi," the students happily greeted.

"Most people run away in fright," Demi whispered to Boris. "This bunch is staying put. I like them."

"Demi here is a good friend to my family," Boris smiled at the class. "He will be coming to class every so often when the subject of ghosts come up. Consider Demi to be your guide to the great beyond."

"Whatever you want to know about the great beyond, I'm here to teach," Demi happily announced.

Everybody had a good time getting to know Demi.

September 18, 1869

It was a sunny Saturday morning at Enchancia Castle. In the Enchancia Castle ballroom, things had been set up for the oath of allegiance ceremony for new citizens of the kingdom. As Violet, Dorrie, and Candice looked at the ballroom, Violet came up behind Candice, and gently hugged Candice.

"Looking at this ballroom brings back memories," Violet smiled at Candice. "I remember when you stood here and took your oath of allegiance when you turned good."

"One of the proudest moments of my life," Candice smiled back. "Becoming a citizen of this great kingdom."

"That was a fine day," Queen Miranda fondly remembered as she walked into the ballroom with Sofia. "You've made us so proud, Candice."

"Thank you, Queen Miranda," Candice happily acknowledged.

"Is everything ready here?" Miranda asked Violet.

"Yes, ma'am," Violet reported.

"Then lets bring the attendees in," Miranda cheerfully directed.

Violet walked over to the doors that led into the ballroom, and addressed those waiting. "If all of you will step into the ballroom, the ceremony will begin."

Those gathered walked into the ballroom. Among those gathered was Manny Garcia; Kelly Crenshaw; Kelly's teenage brother, Elliot; Leonard Lopart; Leonard's mother; Dwayne Bouffant and his wife; Jackie Greenway; Abuelito (Manny's grandfather); and others from Galdiz.

"Welcome to today's oath of allegiance ceremony," Miranda greeted. "I'm Queen Miranda, and I'm proud to say that I was born in Galdiz. And this is my daughter, Princess Sofia, who has a Galdiz heritage by birth."

Those honored bowed and curtsied in Miranda and Sofia's presence.

"Since I was born in Galdiz, I've been chosen to carry out today's oath of allegiance ceremony," Miranda announced. "If you will all step into the middle of the ballroom, we'll get the oath of allegiance started."

Everybody taking part of in the oath of allegiance ceremony stepped to the middle of the ballroom.

"If everybody will raise their right hand, we'll get started," Miranda directed as everybody raised their right hand. "Please repeat after me. I swear that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Roland the Second, King of Enchancia, and His Heirs and Successors. I swear that I will be loyal to the Kingdom of Enchancia, promote all that will advance it, and oppose all that may harm it. I swear that I will faithfully observe the laws of Enchancia and fulfill my duties as an Enchancian citizen. I also swear that I impose these obligations upon myself of my own free will."

Everybody taking part of in the oath of allegiance ceremony repeated the oath.

"It is my great joy to pronounce all of you citizens of Enchancia," Miranda smiled. "Let us all sing the Enchancian anthem."

As a small orchestra started playing off to the side, everybody started singing.

"From the silver flying horses, of the ever golden glades. To the dragons on the cliff tops, of the misty palisades."

"Enchancia, Enchancia, come hear our humble call. Enchancia, Enchancia, a land for one and all."

"Where the valiant knights protect us, from the darkest evil spells. And your wishes all come true here, if they're made in wishing wells."

"Enchancia, Enchancia, a beacon shining bright. Enchancia, Enchancia, where all our dreams take flight."

After the anthem, all those who had taken the oath received their citizenship certificates. Queen Miranda then stepped forward.

"We have a pleasant surprise," Miranda announced. "Manny Garcia has requested me to allow a personal moment here. I think you'll all enjoy it."

Manny walked up to Kelly Crenshaw.

"Kelly," Manny began. "Since we're beginning new lives here in Enchancia, there's something I want to do."

"What did you have in mind, Manny?" Kelly asked.

Manny got down on one knee, and produced a small ring box, as everybody in the room gasped in excitement.

"Kelly Crenshaw," Manny began. "You've had feelings for me for a while now. And, I've had feelings for you, too. Would you do me the honor of being my wife, Kelly?"

"Oh, Manny!" Kelly happily exclaimed with tears of happiness in her eyes. "This is all I've ever wanted. I will marry you, Manny. Thank you for making me the luckiest woman in the world."

"She said yes!" Sofia exclaimed in joy as Manny and Kelly hugged, and everybody in the room clapped in happiness.

"And I have a special surprise for you two," Miranda smiled at Manny and Kelly. "My husband, King Roland, would like the honor of marrying the two of you when you set your wedding date. And, you may have your wedding here in the castle ballroom."

"Please thank King Roland for us," Manny said in gratitude.

"Manny and I would be honored to be married by King Roland, and to have our wedding here," Kelly smiled.

"Then it's settled," Miranda happily acknowledged. "May the two of you have a long and happy life together."

November 13, 1869

Candice Cosmarune-Cooper personal diary entry: Saturday, November 13, 1869.

My, how time flies. Halloween came and went, and everybody had a good time going Trick or Treating. Professor Pecullian always has the best treats ... provided you have a good costume, and put on a good presentation. Not to worry, though. Everybody had a good costume, and everybody put on a good presentation, enough that Professor Pecullian rewarded everybody who came to his door.

Manny and Kelly have settled for a spring wedding, and we all eagerly look forward to it. Meanwhile, speaking of family matters, we are expecting Duchess Tilly to give birth anytime now. She, Sir Bartelby, and Madeline continue to stay here at the castle awaiting the blessed event.

At Enchancia Castle, in the guest quarters where Tilly and Bartelby were staying, Dorrie and Candice were seeing to Tilly's needs. Bartelby was outside on the castle grounds doing a practice with the other Enchancian knights.

"Thank you for helping me, girls," Tilly smiled at Dorrie and Candice as they helped Tilly walk over to an overstuffed chair.

"You're welcome, Duchess Tilly," Dorrie smiled back.

As Dorrie and Candice were slowly walking Tilly to the overstuffed chair, Tilly suddenly stopped.

"What's the matter, Duchess?" Candice asked, concerned.

"I think my water's broke," Tilly announced.

Tilly, Dorrie, and Candice looked down to the floor to see a puddle of water where Tilly was standing.

"Let's get you to the bed," Dorrie gently suggested to Tilly.

Dorrie and Candice slowly walked Tilly over to the bed, and gently helped to lay Tilly on the bed.

"Candice," Dorrie instructed. "You've better get Mom."

"On my way," Candice acknowledged as she rushed from the room. In a few moments, Candice came across Baileywick, and sixteen-year-old Abby.

"What's the rush?" Abby asked Candice, curious.

"Duchess Tilly is about to give birth," Candice announced. "I've got to get my Mom."

"Duchess Matilda is delivering now?!" Baileywick exclaimed, taken off guard. "It's been so long since the castle has had a birth. Not since the births of Princess Amber and Prince James."

"I'll go get Violet, and you stay with the Duchess," Abby said to Candice, before turning to Baileywick. "Sir, please alert the castle. We have a baby on the way."

Baileywick ran off to spread the news as Abby went to find Violet, and Candice returned to the room where Tilly and Dorrie were. In a few minutes, Abby found Violet in a hallway dusting.

"Violet," Abby called out.

"Oh my, girl," Violet said to Abby. "You look like you've just ran the hundred yard dash."

"It's Duchess Tilly," Abby explained. "She's ready to give birth. Mr. Baileywick is spreading the news through the castle, and I came looking for you. The Duchess is in her guest quarters."

"Thank you, Abby," Violet acknowledged as she gently patted Abby on the shoulder. "I'll get there immediately."

(To be continued in Chapter 43).

Behind the scenes

In this edition of "Behind the scenes", we have a look at two things of interest: classes available to Hexley Hall students as of 1869, then a look at the Hexley Hall Helper Animal Day Care Program.

Hexley Hall classes as of 1869:

Core classes: Alchemy, Astrology, Astronomy, Basic Broom Riding, Basic Wand Training, Charms, Control and Magical Ethics, Controlling Powers, Defense Against the Dark Arts, Defensive and Offensive Broom Tactics, Dimensional Manipulation, Divination, Geography, Gym, Health, Herbology, Illusion, Magical Artifacts, Magical Beasts and Creatures, Magical Force Fields, Magical Healing, Magical History, Math, Paranormal Training, Potions, Summoning, Teleportation, Transfiguration, Wand Combat, and World History.

Elective activities and classes: Bamboost Riding, Band, Chorus, Cooking Arts, Enchanted Art, Flying Horse Riding Team, Great Witch War Studies, Household Spells, Journalism, Languages (various), Levitation, Magic Carpet Riding, Magician Arts, Middle-Earth Studies, Music Appreciation, Natural Studies, Non-Magical Defensive Training, Public Speaking, Quidditch (with each house having its own team), Royalty and Magic, Specialty Powers, Wandlore, and World Literature.

New elective as of 1869: Non-Magical Defensive Training.

Hexley Hall Helper Animal Day Care Program:

The Hexley Hall Helper Animal Day Care Program is available to all Hexley Hall students and staff, and looks after helper animals when they are not needed for some classes. The Hexley Hall Helper Animal Day Care Program has a staff of trained professionals who look after helper animals in a loving environment. The staff makes sure that helper animals in their care are fed and groomed. The staff also makes sure that the animals in their care get play time as well.

The Hexley Hall Helper Animal Day Care Program also has some veterinarians (animal doctors) who are available to tend to the medical needs of animals there.

Author's notes

Anniale Eiram Pearson, Elainna Marie Pearson, and Shade, are characters created by epear96, and are used in this story with the permission of epear96

Bo stick: a Bo stick is a Japanese martial arts weapon measuring approximately six feet in length, and can be used for striking, thrusting, blocking, covering, pushing, holding or pressing, locking, throwing, as well as pinning an opponent (for the smaller version of the Bo stick, called the Jo stick, see the author's notes below under Jo stick).

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

Derek Von Schroedor, Elizabeth West-Chadwick, Kindra Moto, Kirk Winston, Marie Perkins, Rackal Moto, Samantha "Sam" Cook, Silvia Moto, Timothy O'Toole, and Yuki Moto are characters created by MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury, and are used in this story with the permission of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

Elective: a course that the student can select from among alternatives.

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

"From the silver flying horses, of the ever golden glades. To the dragons on the cliff tops, of the misty palisades" - I changed blazing palisades to misty palisades to reflect what happened in the "Sofia the First" episode "The Secret Library: Tale of the External Torch".

Galdiz, as "Sofia the First" fans will remember, is the kingdom with Spanish leanings that Queen Miranda hails from. I decided to have Manny and company come from Galdiz as well since they also have Spanish leanings.

Gentry: the most powerful members of a society.

Having Anniale, Elainna, Shade, and Smoke appear in this chapter was based on a request from epear96.

Having Derek trying to get back on the Hexley Hall Tourney team was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury. I added in the confrontation between Derek and Dorrie to round out the scene. Derek being stripped of his Captain's rank, and being kicked off of the team, is a reference to events in SailorWednesdayMercury's story "From Villager To Princess Book 4".

Having Madeline and Genevieve meet Manny and his tools was based on an idea by Brigade701.

Having Makayla being sorted into Waldgrave House was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

Having Manny and his tools appear in this story was the idea of Brigade701. Manny, as well as Abuelito; Dusty; Dwayne Bouffant and his wife; Elliot; Felipe; Flicker; Junior; Kelly; Lefty; Leonard Lopart; Leonard's mother; Lily; Pat; Pinzas; Rusty; Sneeze; Spinner; Squeeze; Stretch; Ticks; Totts; and Turner, are based on the same characters from the "Handy Manny" TV series, but adapted for the "Sofia the First" universe. In regard to Flicker, Brigade701 and I changed Flicker from a flashlight to a lantern to make Flicker more compatible with the 1860s. In regard to Sneeze, Brigade701 and I changed Sneeze from a conventional vacuum cleaner to a steam powered vacuum cleaner to make Sneeze more compatible with the 1860s. And in regard to Spinner, I changed Spinner from a power drill to a hand drill to make Spinner more compatible with the 1860s.

Having Silvia Moto give birth to twins, and naming them Kindra and Rackal, was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

Having Violet, Dorrie, and Candice attend to Tilly when it comes time for Tilly to give birth was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

Having Yuki Moto stand up before those gathered in the Hexley Hall great hall was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

Hexley Hall Elective Day: a day, shortly before the beginning of the school year, where Hexley Hall students choose whatever elective classes they want to take during the school year.

Holly, Makayla, Noah, and Rachel are characters created by Going on and on and on, and are used in this story with the permission of Going on and on and on.

I swear that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Roland the Second, King of Enchancia, and His Heirs and Successors. I swear that I will be loyal to the Kingdom of Enchancia, promote all that will advance it, and oppose all that may harm it. I swear that I will faithfully observe the laws of Enchancia and fulfill my duties as an Enchancian citizen. I also swear that I impose these obligations upon myself of my own free will - I created the Enchancian oath of allegiance by using elements from oaths of allegiance used in Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, the Philippines, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

"I'm being trained as a knight of Orillia by the other knights of Orillia," Sandra smiled back. "I thought this class would add to my fighting skills" - this is a reference to events seen in "Sofia the First" stories written by Jolly Roger Brat.

Jo stick: a Jo stick is a Japanese martial arts weapon measuring 4.2 feet in length, and can be used for striking, thrusting, blocking, covering, pushing, holding or pressing, locking, throwing, as well as pinning an opponent. Readers of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia" will remember that in the Behind the scenes segment of Chapter 20, it was mentioned that Molly and Nonya were using Jo sticks in their role as apprentice guards at the castle.

Lita Mizuki was created by MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury and myself.

Lucindy: "Sofia the First" fans will remember that Lucindy is one of Lily's pet names for Lucinda.

Madeline and Genevieve are based on Madeline and Genevieve from the "Madeline" book series, but adapted for the "Sofia the First" universe. Madeline has also appeared in stories written by Sofia2017 planning, as well as my stories "A Royal Rift", "Enchancia Castle", "Getting To Know Tilly", "Sofia and Lucinda the First - Twice Upon a Princess", "Sofia and Lucinda the First", and "Tales From The Castle". The versions of Madeline and Genevieve seen in this chapter are based on Madeline and Genevieve who appeared in my story "Getting To Know Tilly", with that Madeline and Genevieve now adapted to be a part of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia".

Matilda Honey is based on Matilda from the "Matilda" children's book and movie, but adapted for the "Sofia the First" universe. 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".

Midwife: a woman skilled in aiding in the delivery of babies. Readers of my stories "Dorrie" and "Dorrie: Book Two" will remember that Violet is a midwife, and that Dorrie and Candice are training to be midwives.

Minder: the term Minder first appeared in Chapter 31 of my story "Dorrie", and is a term used to describe somebody who has the ability to move things with their mind.

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".

Montrella: I established that Prince Desmond came from a kingdom named Montrella in Chapter 12 of my story "Witch Tales".

Mulan and Shang are originally from "Mulan" and "Mulan 2".

Ornburgh: the kingdom in my stories where both Prince Frederick and his brother, Prince Everett, hail from.

Princess Sandra of Orillia is a character created by Jolly Roger Brat. Princess Sandra is used in my stories with the permission of Jolly Roger Brat.

Professor Pecullian is originally from the "Sofia the First" episodes "One for the Books" and "Too Cute to Spook" (in fact, it was through "Too Cute to Spook" that we discovered that Professor Percullian has the best treats for Trick or Treaters ... provided you have a good costume, and put on a good presentation).

Quidditch is from "Harry Potter".

Sandra's tale of the zombie infestation is based on the story seen in the movie "Pride and Prejudice and Zombies". I did, however, change some things to make it more compatible with the "Sofia the First" universe: I changed England to Anglotopia, and I changed London to Londinium. I also added onto the story by featuring the effects of the zombie infestation on the rest of the world, and also giving a different ending to "Pride and Prejudice and Zombies" by having Hingham Bridge being rebuilt.

Shan-Yu and his Huns are from "Mulan".

Smoke is a female Russian Blue cat I created for Elainna's cousin, Anniale. We'll consider Shade and Smoke to be from the same litter. I now sign over the rights to Smoke to epear96 to do with as epear96 pleases.

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

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

The Kingdom of Orillia is a kingdom created by Jolly Roger Brat, and is used in my stories with permission from Jolly Roger Brat.

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.

Tourney is from "Disney Descendants".

"Well, I'm happy to have you here," Scarlett praised. "Being from Orillia, fighting skills are in your blood. Decades ago, those in Orillia fought bravely during the zombie infestation of that time. Please join the other students" - the zombie infestation of decades ago is a reference to events seen in the movie "Pride and Prejudice and Zombies".

Disclaimer

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

Derek Von Schroedor, Elizabeth West-Chadwick, Kindra Moto, Kirk Winston, Marie Perkins, Rackal Moto, Samantha "Sam" Cook, Silvia Moto, 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.

Holly, Makayla, Noah, Rachel, and the other original ideas from Going on and on and on are the property of Going on and on and on, and are used in this story with the permission of Going on and on and on.

"Mulan" and everything associated with it © Walt Disney Pictures, Walt Disney Feature Animation, and Buena Vista Pictures.

"Mulan 2" and everything associated with it © Walt Disney Pictures, DisneyToon Studios, and Walt Disney Home Entertainment.

"Pride and Prejudice and Zombies" and everything associated with it © Screen Gems, Lionsgate, Cross Creek Pictures, Sierra Pictures, MadRiver Pictures, QC Entertainment, Allison Shearmur Productions, HandsomeCharlie Films, and Head Gear Films.

Princess Sandra of Orillia 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 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 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, Adair Starwell, Candice Cosmarune-Cooper, Dorrie Cosmarune-Cooper, Gayle Lovegood, Gracie Bryant, Kennicot House, Leanne Dorasha, Lisa Elodie, Pepperton House, Prince Everett, Princess Aileen, Valentina Androcasia, and Waldgrave House.