Once Upon a Time in Enchancia Chapter 45: A Memorable December (Part Two), a sofia the first fanfic

Once Upon a Time in Enchancia

Welcome to Chapter 45 of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia". Song in this chapter: "Peace and Joy" from the "Sofia the First" episode "Holiday in Enchancia".

I'm sorry for once again taking a long time to complete a chapter. I've had some other things on my plate, and those things got in the way. To make it up to you, I have a special surprise for you over on my Niagara14301 account over at DeviantArt: the "official" portraits of Dorrie and Candice as they appear in "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia". I think you'll enjoy it.

Meanwhile, Elena and her family appear in this chapter. For the sake of argument, we'll consider the events of the upcoming "Elena of Avalor" episode "Festival of Lights" to be separate from the events in this chapter.

Chapter 45: A Memorable December (Part Two)

December 24, 1869

It was now evening at Enchancia Castle. In the small red brick one room cottage located in back of the castle, sixteen-year-old Candice was sitting reading a book. The cottage was lit by gaslight, and a warm, inviting fire was burning in the fireplace. As Candice read, she heard a knock at the front door. Candice looked through the glass in the door, and saw Elena standing there.

"Come in," Candice cheerfully invited. "Being from Avalor, you can't be use to winter cold."

"Thank you," Elena smiled as she walked in, and closed the door behind her. "Even with my coat on, I'm still getting use to winter weather."

"Take a chair near the fire," Candice invited.

"That feels nice," Elena acknowledged as she warmed herself by the fire. "I don't mean to disturb you, but I needed to talk to somebody."

"About Esteban?" Candice asked.

"Yes," Elena answered. "But, how did you know?"

"The ghost of your father told me you might be dropping by," Candice revealed. "And, he told me you would want to talk about Esteban."

"The thing is, Candice, I want to know what was going through his head," Elena started. "I want to understand. I was hoping that, well, because you started off, shall we say ..."

"Evil?" Candice wanted to know.

"Yes," Elena responded, feeling a bit awkward. "I didn't come here to be insulting. You've become a beacon of hope, turning good the way you did. But, I was hoping that you might be able to shed light on what could have possessed Esteban to do such a thing, using your beginnings as a reference."

"I understand," Candice said in a sympathetic way. "But, I never did what Esteban did. I never helped somebody evil take over a kingdom, or caused innocent people to be enslaved as a result. I'm sure Valtor and Maleficent had that in mind, but I turned good before they could do such a thing. By turning good, and preventing them from having Danika's amulet, I prevented a sad future. Esteban, on the other hand, helped Shuriki to take over Avalor. He might not have fully realized what he was getting into, but he did help Shuriki all the same."

"And that's why I'm angry!" Elena declared. "He betrayed my family. He betrayed Avalor."

Candice gently put her hand on Elena's hand in a gesture of understanding.

"I don't understand how he could do such a thing," Elena continued. "Look at you, Candice. You turned good. You didn't carry out your plan. Why couldn't Esteban have seen the light?"

"It's called free will, Elena," Candice gently explained. "Some of us choose the light, some choose the darkness ... and some choose a gray area between the two. I think Esteban chose a gray area."

"Then you're defending him?!" Elena exclaimed.

"No," Candice pointed out. "He did wrong, and his involvement paved the way for suffering. But, from what I've been told, he didn't mean for things to unfold as they did. He was simply looking to be important ... to make a name for himself. And Shuriki used that to her advantage. Still, that's not an excuse. He has to face the consequences for his involvement."

"Yes," Elena agreed.

"I think I have something that will help you," Candice announced. "We'll need to see Princess Rapunzel in Corona."

"But that was many years ago," Elena pointed out. "Scarlett told me how your mother is a Voyager, and that you and Dorrie are now Voyagers. Won't traveling back in time disrupt history?"

"Well, we won't be traveling back in time," Candice smiled. "There is a portal on the castle gardens that leads to an alternate reality."

"An alternate reality?" Elena asked, puzzled.

"Come," Candice invited. "I'll explain on the way."

As Candice and Elena walked outside and through the castle gardens, Candice explained about the portal that led to Nonya and Molly's alternate reality. In a few minutes, Candice and Elena reached where the invisible portal was. Elena took Candice's hand, and the two entered the portal. In a few moments, they emerged in the alternate reality Corona.

"Wow!" Elena exclaimed, impressed, as she looked around. It was daytime in the alternate reality, and it was warmer as well.

"Ah! You're back," a woman's voice came from behind them. Candice and Elena turned around to see the alternate reality Princess Rapunzel standing there.

"Princess Rapunzel," Candice greeted.

"Good to see you, again," Rapunzel smiled. "Candice, wasn't it?"

"Yes," Candice smiled. "This is a friend of mine. Her name is Elena."

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Elena," Rapunzel warmly greeted. "What may I do for you?"

"You see, Princess Rapunzel," Candice started, "Elena needs to talk to somebody. She's been betrayed ... like you have."

"I see," Rapunzel acknowledged. "Let's sit down over there, and we can talk."

Rapunzel and Elena walked over to a bench, and started talking, as Candice stood a little way away. As Candice looked at some nearby buildings, she sensed a woman walk up to her.

"Where exactly are we, Candice?" the woman asked.

Candice turned around to see Lydia standing there.

"Oh! Queen Lydia!" Candice exclaimed, taken off guard. "How did you get here?"

"I followed you and Elena," Lydia explained. "I didn't know there was a portal behind the castle."

"Ah, yeah. About that," Candice started to explain. "This is an alternate reality, created by the wishing well for Nonya and Molly."

"I see," Lydia acknowledged. "And I take it that's not the real Princess Rapunzel?"

"No," Candice answered. "Just an alternate reality version of her."

As Candice and Lydia talked to each other, Elena and Rapunzel continued their conversation.

"I can see why you are angry with your Esteban," Rapunzel acknowledged. "His actions caused the death of your parents, and your kingdom to be enslaved. But, you also have to remember that he is family ... like Cassandra is to me. Cassandra has done some bad things, but I still hold out hope that some day the old Cassandra will return."

"Sounds like me and my father," Lydia announced as she walked up. "My father, to put it mildly, was uncomfortable with my powers. It caused a rift between us. After his death at sea, and after thinking about it for a long time, I decided to forgive him. It was a release unlike anything I had felt before."

"But I can't forgive Esteban for what he did," Elena pointed out.

"I'm not saying forgive the act," Lydia advised. "Forgive the person you knew."

"Elena," Candice started as she walked up. "I received this a few days ago. You'll want to read this."

Candice then handed a folded letter to Elena, and Elena read it.

My dear Elena

I know you are upset with me, and you have every right to be. I was foolish in my youth, and it has cost me dearly. You are right ... I am no longer familia. How can I ever be familia again after what I have done? Things rapidly spun out of my control, and Shuriki quickly spread an evil across Avalor that can never be forgiven.

I have tried to atone for my part in what happened. I know this must be cold comfort to you. I can only hope that one day, you will realize, Elena, that I am truly sorry for what I have put all of you through.

Esteban.

"He does care," Elena said to herself, before turning to Candice. "How did you get this?"

"It was sent to me through one of my underground contacts," Candice answered. "Esteban must have heard you were coming to Enchancia Castle for Wassailia."

"How did he know to send it to you?" Elena asked Candice, curious.

"During one of my visits to Avalor, Esteban and I talked," Candice explained. "He was curious about my beginnings. I thought it was odd, but I went ahead and told him how I turned good. After our talk, he seemed to be pleased. Thinking back on it now, it was almost as if he were looking for some kind of happy ending for himself."

"I see," Elena acknowledged as she turned to Rapunzel and Lydia. "I want to thank all of you for listening. You've given me much to think about."

December 25, 1869

It was Wassailia morning at Enchancia Castle. In the great hall, the castle servants were gathered. Every Wassailia morning, the royal family gave each servant a Wassailia gift. Standing off to the side was the royal family of Avalor, the invited guests from High Hope Dance Academy, as well as seventeen-year-old Princess Jade Chen and her parents. Also there was Lydia and her husband, King Graham of Lacorinth. King Roland had invited all of them to spend Wassailia day at the castle.

The servants formed a line, and soon the gift giving got underway. After a while, it was Dorrie and Candice's turn.

"Dorrie, Candice," King Roland smiled as he handed a wrapped package to Dorrie, and a wrapped package to Candice. "Miranda and I found something for each of you."

"Roland and I think you'll like these," Miranda happily announced.

Dorrie and Candice opened the packages, and discovered that each package contained a book.

"Wow!" Dorrie exclaimed, impressed.

"Jaraslav Ignatyev's lost works," Candice said in awe.

"But this isn't due out until early next year," Dorrie remembered.

"Well, I know the publisher," Roland winked. "He agreed to let me have two advance copies ... one for each of you."

"Thank you, sir," Dorrie said to Roland in appreciation.

"Thank you so much, sir," Candice responded, pleased.

"The two of you are very welcome," Roland smiled.

"Roland and I know how much the two of you love Ignatyev's writing," Miranda happily admitted. "We thought it would make the perfect gift."

Dorrie and Candice smiled in appreciation at Roland and Miranda. Dorrie and Candice then walked off, making way for others in line. As Dorrie and Candice stood off to the side, going through their books, Tilly and Bartelby walked into the great hall, followed by fifteen-year-old Madeline and Madeline's dog, Genevieve. Behind the group was Madge, who was wheeling a baby carriage with Roxy and JT inside.

"Ah!" Tilly smiled at Dorrie and Candice. "I see the two of you got Roland and Miranda's gift."

"Oh yes, Duchess," Dorrie acknowledged with a smile.

"Dorrie and I are going through our copies right now," Candice happily added.

"Reading is a fine thing," Tilly observed. "And, it's the key to everything."

As Dorrie and Candice smiled at Tilly's remark, a heavy set greened skinned man walked into the great hall.

"Sky Clone!" Queen Miranda gasped.

Madge stood in front of the baby carriage, as she brought out a dagger.

"Quite a glistening assemblage, King Roland and Queen Miranda!" Sky Clone said with an evil grin. "Royals, nobles ... how quaint! Even Skyla and her band of misfits!"

"You weren't invited because you weren't wanted!" Angelica, a teenage girl from High Hope Dance Academy, barked.

"Not wan ... Oh! Dear me! What an oversight! Well ... I guess I should be on my way," Sky Clone said in mock sadness.

"I'm glad Roland didn't offend you, Sky Clone," Dame Skyla of High Hope Dance Academy responded, trying to calm the situation.

"Me too, and to show my love for the holiday, I shall give an early gift to the one named Breeze!" Sky Clone announced as he concentrated, and directed some magical energy toward the teen male known as Breeze.

"Oh no! Not again! Breeze! Look out!" Lady Jade of High Hope Dance Academy called out, alarmed.

"Oh ... no ... not ... again ... good night ... everyone ..." Breeze yawned as he fell asleep, and fell to the floor of the ballroom.

"That was enjoyable," Sky Clone laughed, before turning to Candice. "This is all on you, girl ... for attacking Lovisa, and driving her out of Enchancia."

"Why you no good son of a slug!" Candice barked as she magically made her scepter appear in her hand.

Sixteen-year-old Sofia, and sixteen-year-old Lucinda, along with Dorrie, Violet, and sixteen-year-old Abby Murphy, quickly stood with Candice with their wands drawn at Sky Clone.

"I have this, ladies," Elena said as she quickly moved in front of Candice, Dorrie, Violet, Abby, Sofia, and Lucinda.

A powerful magical energy surrounded Elena, as Elena angrily stared down Sky Clone. Before everybody knew it, Sky Clone disappeared into thin air, as everybody in the ballroom gasped in shock. The magical energy around Elena then died down.

"Not to worry," Elena assured everybody. "He's not dead. I just sent him off to a place far away."

"Wow!" Candice exclaimed, impressed and stunned at the same time. "I heard you had powers from Takaina, but I never dreamed your powers were that powerful."

King Roland knelt down next to the now sleeping Breeze, as seventeen-year-old Jade Chen stood overhead.

"What's the matter with him?" seventeen-year-old Jade asked Roland, concerned.

"It's okay, Princess Jade," Roland said in a reassuring voice. "Breeze is only asleep."

"You don't have to use my title," seventeen-year-old Jade pointed out.

"Actually I do have to use titles because there is another Jade here," Roland reminded seventeen-year-old Jade.

"Right," seventeen-year-old Jade remembered. "Sorry."

The teenage Lady Jade (from High Hope Dance Academy) knelt down next to Breeze. "Don't worry, Breeze. I'll awaken you."

Lady Jade from High Hope Dance Academy gently kissed Breeze on the cheek. In a few moments, Breeze awoke.

"What happened?" Breeze wanted to know, confused.

"Sky Clone attacked you," Lady Jade informed Breeze. "But, you're okay, now."

"True love's kiss," Candice whispered to Dorrie. "Works every time."

As everybody looked upon the touching scene between Lady Jade and Breeze, Colonel Martinsen walked up to King Roland. As Martinsen and Roland talked, Candice walked up.

"Sirs," Candice started in a respectful way, "what just happened was an attempt by the dark powers to get at me by attacking another. I can't let this stand. I'd like permission after the holiday to form a team to strike back. Obviously, Lovisa is behind this."

"I would agree that Lovisa is behind this, Lady Candice," Martinsen acknowledged. "We'll need to do an investigation to determine our response, wouldn't you agree, King Roland?"

"Yes," Roland confirmed, as he turned to Candice. "We need to plan this out. But, when the time comes for us to take action, I'll make sure you are involved."

"We'll keep you updated on what is going on," Martinsen promised Candice.

"Meanwhile," Roland addressed everyone present, "let us get back to the holiday spirit. We're all okay, and that is a fine blessing, indeed. If the staff who haven't received a gift yet will form a line, we'll continue."

In a few moments, Roland and the royal family continued handing out Wassailia presents to the staff, and a wonderful time was had by all.

That evening

In the castle ballroom, it was time for the Enchancian royal family and their guests to enjoy Wassailia evening. Among the guests were the royal family of Avalor; Tilly, Bartleby, and Madeline (Roxy and JT were in a room sleeping under the watchful eye of Madge); Princess Jade and her parents (the Chen babies were at home in Dunwitty at the Satu embassy, being looked after by the embassy staff); Lydia, King Graham, and Graham's sister, Eva ; and the invited guests from High Hope Dance Academy.

Everybody had a grand time lighting the Wassailia candle, and opening presents. At one point, sixteen-year-old Sofia stood before everybody.

"It has become a tradition to sing a special song during Wassailia evening," Sofia announced. "It goes back to a Wassailia where my family and I were lost in a snowstorm out in the woods. With your permission, I'd like to sing that song for you."

"I've heard of this, Princess Sofia," Francisco acknowledged. "If you don't mind, I'd like to accompany you with my guitar."

"I'd like that, General," Sofia smiled as she started singing, and Francisco started playing. "The firelight is shining bright, while the snow blows cold outside."

"Friendly faces, warm embraces, surround us all tonight."

At that point, everybody in the ballroom joined in. "So we make this one simple wish, meant for every girl and boy. May the holiday bring you peace and joy."

"From those that you love, to the stars up above. May the holiday bring you peace and joy."

(Lydia's owl, Eezeyal, in the rafters above the ballroom) "Peace and joy."

(All) "From those that you love, to the stars up above. May the holiday bring you peace and joy."

In Candice's room in the castle, her and Creamy listened to the singing coming from the ballroom.

"Happy Wassailia, Creamy," Candice smiled.

"Happy Wassailia, Candice," Creamy smiled back.

Candice then turned serious. "Well, Wassailia is coming to an end. I told Mom and Dorrie I'd tell them about my alternate reality after Wassailia. I hope they will understand."

"I'm sure they will," Creamy reassured Candice. "They are your family."

Candice gently picked up Creamy, and cradled him in her arms. "Thank you, Creamy."

"Anytime, Candice," Creamy acknowledged as he lovingly stroked Candice's arm with his head.

Back in the ballroom, King Roland stood up as a small orchestra set up nearby.

"I thought it would be nice if we had a Wassailia dance," Roland happily announced.

Everybody in attendance got up, and chose partners. In a few moments, the small orchestra started playing, and those in the ballroom had a fine time dancing to holiday music. After a while, everybody sat down, pleased with how the evening had gone. At one point, Lydia and her husband, Graham, stood up.

"If I may have everyone's attention, please," Graham announced. "Lydia and I have some news we'd like to share."

Everybody in the ballroom sat at attention waiting to hear Graham and Lydia's announcement.

"Well, the thing is," Lydia started, "I went to my doctor a few days ago. It turns out that I'm pregnant."

Everybody in the ballroom clapped and cheered in celebration.

"Oh, Lydia," Miranda said in joy as she walked up. "I'm so happy for you and Graham."

"That's wonderful news, Lydia!" Sofia smiled as she walked up, and gently hugged Lydia.

"I say this calls for a toast," Roland happily announced as some male servants poured drinks for the guests. "To Lydia, Graham, and their future child."

"To Lydia, Graham, and their future child," everybody repeated in joy. It was a wonderful way to end a Wassailia evening.

December 27, 1869

The castle staff had spent the day after Wassailia cleaning up the castle. Now, it was the following day, and pretty much a free day for the castle staff. In Candice's room, Candice stood looking out her window when she heard a knock at her door.

"Come in," Candice invited.

Candice turned around to see Violet and Dorrie walk in.

"You wanted to see us, Candice?" Violet asked, curious.

"Yes Mom, Dorrie," Candice acknowledged. "I said I would tell you after Wassailia about my alternate reality. I'm ready to do that, now."

Dorrie could tell that Candice was nervous. "I'm sure, Candice, that Mom and I will understand whatever you have."

"I hope so," Candice said under her breath, before returning to a normal tone of voice. "Mom, Dorrie. I might as well just show you, and let the chips fall where they may."

"We're ready," Violet said in an encouraging tone of voice.

Candice waved her hand in the direction of one of the walls in her room, and a magical portal opened up.

"Follow me, please," Candice directed Violet and Dorrie.

Candice, Violet, and Dorrie walked through the portal, and soon found themselves in a hallway inside the castle.

"I don't understand," Violet said, confused. "We're still in the castle."

"Candice," Dorrie called out. "Where did you go?"

"I'm down here," a young girl's voice came from behind Violet and Dorrie.

Violet and Dorrie turned around, and looked down to see a white skinned, blond haired girl around six-year-old standing there. The girl was wearing glasses just like Candice wore.

"It's me," the girl said to Violet and Dorrie. "I'm Candice."

"How is this possible?" Violet asked, not quite believing what she was seeing.

"My alternate reality, given to me by the wishing well, is a reality where I'm a little girl," Candice explained. "I never really had a young childhood because I was brought into this world by way of cloning. I wanted to know what it was like to be little, and when the opportunity came, I took it."

At that moment, a six-year-old girl who was white skinned and had brown hair walked around the corner.

"Candice," the girl smiled. "So, this is where you got to. Who are your friends?"

"Oh my!" Candice thought to herself, nervous, before turning to Dorrie and Violet. "Dorrie, this is you ... as a child."

"Hey!" the child version of Dorrie happily called out to the teenage Dorrie. "You're me ... when I'm older."

"Yes," the teenage Dorrie smiled.

At that moment, a younger Violet walked around the corner.

"Dorrie, Candice, there you are," the younger Violet smiled, before suddenly noticing the older Violet and older Dorrie. "Well, this is awkward."

"Then you know what's going on?" the older Violet asked her younger counterpart.

"Yes," the younger Violet acknowledged. "This is a place where Candice can visit and be young. It's always a pleasure to have her here. I hope you aren't upset?"

"How could I be upset?" the older Violet smiled. "You're providing Candice with something she needs."

As Candice went off to play with younger Dorrie, the older Dorrie and older Violet sat down with younger Violet on a couch in the hallway.

"In a way, this is a little like Kick the Can," older Violet remarked.

"Kick the Can?" older Dorrie asked, puzzled.

"Ah, yes," younger Violet smiled in acknowledgment. "As in the Twilight Zone episode of the same name."

"How do you know that?" older Violet asked, impressed.

"The wishing well, when creating this reality, gave me a copy of all of your knowledge," the younger Violet smiled at the older Violet. "Everything you know, I know."

"Nice," older Violet happily acknowledged, before turning to older Dorrie. "Kick the Can was an episode of The Twilight Zone TV series. The episode, which aired in 1962, featured older people at a rest home who, through some kind of magic as it were, became kids again."

"Ah, I see," older Dorrie remarked. "I'll have to check out the television archives the next time I'm at Voyager Command."

The older Violet, the younger Violet, and older Dorrie had a pleasant conversation as Candice and younger Dorrie were off playing. In a little while, Candice and younger Dorrie walked up.

"Time for me to be getting back," Candice announced to older Violet and older Dorrie.

"Come back soon," the younger Dorrie smiled at Candice.

"We're always glad to have you here," the younger Violet happily added.

"I'll see you later, then," Candice smiled back.

"Nice meeting you," the older Violet said as she shook the younger Violet's hand.

Candice, the older Dorrie, and the older Violet then walked down the hall, and disappeared into the portal. In a few moments, the three were back in Candice's room, and Candice was back to being a teenager. Candice waved her hand, and the portal disappeared.

"That was nice, Candice," Violet said in a reassuring voice. "I'm glad you have this."

"As am I," Dorrie agreed.

At that moment, a knock came at Candice's door. "Come in," Candice invited.

Candice's door opened, and in walked Baileywick. "Ah, good!" Baileywick smiled. "The three of you are here."

"What's going on?" Violet asked, curious.

"Lady Colette is here," Baileywick announced. "She's in the downstairs meeting room with Abby. Apparently, there is House Cosmarune business to discuss."

"We'll be right there," Violet informed Baileywick. "Thank you."

In a few minutes, Violet, Dorrie, and Candice walked into the meeting room where Colette, and sixteen-year-old Abby Murphy, were waiting.

"Aunt Colette!" Candice exclaimed in glee.

"It's good to see you," Dorrie smiled.

"What is this about, Colette?" Violet asked.

"As all of you are aware, the Wendarby Institute is in the early stages of construction," Colette began. "The Wendarby Institute will be a grand magical school right up there with Hexley Hall and Hogwarts. Like those two schools, the Wendarby Institute will have its own houses. One of those houses already has a name - Magwin House, named in honor of Princess Lucinda and her birth parents. It is my pleasure to tell you that those in charge of putting together the Wendarby Institute have approached me, and have suggested a name for another of its houses."

"What name would that be, Aunt Colette?" Dorrie asked, curious.

"Cosmarune House," Colette answered with a smile.

Violet, Dorrie, Candice, and Abby all clapped in approval.

"Well," Colette happily acknowledged, "it looks like everybody is in favor. Lets make it official, however, by having everybody raise their hand."

Colette, Violet, Dorrie, Candice, and Abby all raised their hands in approval.

"And we have it!" Colette announced with glee. "I'll contact those in charge of putting together the Wendarby Institute, and let them know we support their idea."

Meanwhile, at Crimson Force headquarters in Cinnibar, a woman with black hair walked up to the front desk and looked to the female employee who was working at the front desk.

"Good afternoon, ma'am. I'm here to see Princess Faith."

"Do you have an appointment?" the employee asked.

"No ma'am. But tell her that my name is Ebony."

Ebony then walked a ways away from the employee as the employee looked Ebony up in the Crimson Force records and came across something troubling ... that Ebony had a criminal record and worked for Lovisa.

The employee quickly sounded the alarm that sounded through the headquarters as a ton of Crimson Force agents ran into the front area and aimed their weapons at Ebony who smirked and hit her knees, putting her hands behind her head in surrender as Faith came in, clad in her vermilion dress. Faith looked at Ebony, and glared intensely.

"So, you're here to try to destroy my agency from the inside, Ebony?"

"On the contrary, Your Highness," Ebony said with a smile. "I'm here to turn myself in. I will only speak to you and your mother."

"Very well," Faith relented. "Come with me ... and don't try anything."

Faith led Ebony to the nearby royal palace of Cinnibar, with a few armed guards following the two. In a few minutes, Faith, Ebony, and the guards reached Queen Scarlett's study in the palace. Faith knocked on the door of the study.

"Enter," Scarlett instructed.

Faith, Ebony, and the guards entered Scarlett's study, as Scarlett looked up in surprise.

"What the?!" Scarlett exclaimed in shock to Faith. "What is that creature doing here?!"

"I mean you no harm, Scarlett," Ebony said in a reassuring voice. "Lovisa is crazier than a loon, and I can't deal with it anymore. I'd rather join the good guys."

"Leave us," Scarlett motioned to the guards, before turning back to Ebony. "Okay, I'm listening."

"Lovisa had a plan to target Sir Bartelby and Duchess Matilda's babies, and when that fell apart, she sent in that crazy Sky Clone to cause some trouble," Ebony explained.

"We already know about that," Scarlett pointed out, unimpressed. "If that's all you have?"

"Now Lovisa is talking about a full scale attack against Enchancia Castle and nearby Dunwitty," Ebony informed Scarlett. "She's insane, and not thinking of the consequences. It doesn't take a genius to figure out that Lady Candice is probably boiling mad at this point. She has resources at her disposal ... powerful resources. Time to face facts. Lovisa is going down sooner or later."

"Well ... something we can agree on," Scarlett admitted. "Does Lovisa have any idea you are here?"

"No," Ebony answered. "She thinks I'm off keeping watch on Enchancia Castle."

"We can use this to our advantage," Scarlett said to herself, before turning back to Ebony. "I'll send you back to Lovisa, and you can act as my eyes and ears."

"No!" Ebony barked. "I'm not going back to that insane woman! I'm through with her! She'll get everybody under her killed!"

"If you go back, I'll give you a full pardon for past crimes you've committed," Scarlett offered. "Yes, you'll face risk. But, think of the reward you'll receive ... your freedom, and I'll even give you a security position here in Cinnibar. You'll have an honest life after this is done."

"A lot of good that will do me if I die beforehand," Ebony scoffed.

"Mom," Faith said to Scarlett. "I'm sure we could sweeten the pot. Perhaps a generous cash reward could be given to Ebony once this is done and over with."

"You have my attention," Ebony acknowledged, interested.

"Faith, have some refreshments brought in," Scarlett requested. "Then you, me, and Ebony can have a talk about the future."

December 29, 1869

It was a Wednesday morning at Enchancia Castle. King Roland had called Violet, Dorrie, and Candice into his study.

"Ladies," Roland greeted. "I have a request from King Graham of Lacorinth. He'd like the three of you to go to Lacorinth Castle, and help set up a future nursery for Lydia. The three of you would be staying through the New Years holiday."

"A New Years holiday in Lacorinth," Violet smiled. "Lovely."

"Lacorinth ... a nice place," Dorrie happily added.

"A good place to spend a holiday," Candice said in delight.

"Please tell King Graham that the three of us would be happy to help out, sir," Violet said to Roland, pleased.

"Great!" Roland exclaimed in delight, as he handed two envelopes to Violet. "This is a note for King Graham, and there's also a note with instructions for the three of you. You'll be leaving this afternoon."

"We'll be ready, sir," Violet promised.

(End of Chapter 45).

Behind the scenes

In this edition of "Behind the scenes", a holiday recipe of interest.

Each Wassailia at Enchancia Castle, there is a very popular dessert known as Eggnog Spice Cake with Bourbon Custard Filling and Eggnog Buttercream.

Active time: 45 minutes. Total time: 6 hours. Yield: serves 16.

This towering four-layer cake is creamy and slightly boozy. To pipe zigzags: start at the base of the cake and pipe a 1 1/2-inch-wide zigzag of frosting up the side of the cake; To end, stop the pressure and pull the tip away; Start the next zigzag at the base of the cake so it touches the first zigzag. Repeat until the entire cake is covered. Use a Microplane grater to create the finest dusting of nutmeg on top. Your guests will love this original way to enjoy their Wassailia eggnog.

Ingredients:

Bourbon Custard Filling:

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups half-and-half
4 large egg yolks
3 tablespoons salted butter
2 tablespoons bourbon

Cake Layers:

1 cup salted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting pans
2 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
3/4 cup whole milk
1/2 cup refrigerated eggnog
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vegetable shortening, for greasing pans

Eggnog Buttercream:

1 cup salted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (2-lb.) pkg. powdered sugar, divided
1/4 cup refrigerated eggnog
1/2 - 3/4 cup heavy cream, divided
Grated fresh nutmeg

Step 1:

Prepare the Bourbon Custard Filling: Whisk together granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a heavy saucepan. Whisk together half-and-half and egg yolks in a glass bowl. Gradually whisk half-and-half mixture into sugar mixture. Cook over medium, whisking constantly, until mixture starts to bubble, 7 to 8 minutes. Cook, whisking constantly, 1 minute; remove from heat. Whisk in butter and bourbon. Transfer to a medium bowl. Place plastic wrap directly on warm filling to prevent a film from forming. Let stand 30 minutes; chill 4 to 24 hours.

Step 2:

Prepare the cake layers: preheat oven to 350°F. Beat butter with a heavy-duty electric stand mixer on medium speed until creamy. Gradually add granulated sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating just until blended after each addition. Stir together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large bowl. Stir together whole milk and eggnog in a glass measuring cup. Add flour mixture to butter mixture alternately with milk mixture, beginning and ending with flour mixture, beating on low speed just until blended after each addition. Stir in vanilla.

Step 3:

Divide batter evenly among 4 greased (with vegetable shortening) and floured 9-inch round cake pans. Bake in preheated oven until a wooden pick inserted in center of cakes comes out clean, 16 to 19 minutes. Cool in pans on wire racks 10 minutes. Transfer from pans to wire racks, and cool completely, about 1 hour.

Step 4:

Prepare the Eggnog Buttercream: Beat butter with a heavy-duty electric stand mixer on medium speed until creamy. Gradually add vanilla extract and 1 cup of the powdered sugar. Stir together eggnog and 1⁄2 cup of the cream in a small bowl. Gradually add remaining powdered sugar to butter mixture alternately with eggnog mixture, beating on low speed until blended after each addition. Beat on high speed until smooth and fluffy. Beat in up to 1⁄4 cup cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, if necessary to reach desired consistency.

Step 5:

Assemble the cake: Place 1 cup of the buttercream in a large piping bag. Place 1 Cake Layer on a serving platter; pipe a 1⁄2-inch-thick ring of buttercream on the very outer edge of the cake. Spread 1⁄3 cup of the filling inside the ring. Repeat procedure with 2 more layers. Top with fourth layer. Spread top and sides of cake with a very thin layer of buttercream. Chill 30 minutes.

Step 6:

Place remaining buttercream in a large piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe 1 1⁄2-inch-wide tight zigzags up sides of cake, starting at the base each time and making sure each zigzag touches the one beside it. Sprinkle cake with nutmeg.

Author's notes

Angelica, Breeze, Dame Skyla, (Lady) Jade, and Sky Clone are from the "Sky Dancers" TV series, and appear here by request of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury (who wrote her own "Sky Dancers" fan fic story called "New Romances Blossom Book 1" under her SailorWednesdayMercury pen name).

Angry (Nonya), Cassandra, Rapunzel, and Red (Molly) are from "Tangled: The Series" (which later became "Rapunzel's Tangled Adventure").

Creamy is a character created for Candice by Jolly Roger Brat. Creamy is used in this story with the permission of Jolly Roger Brat. Readers of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia" will remember that King Roland is no longer allergic to Creamy, and Creamy is now allowed in the castle.

Danika, JT, Roxy, and the Chen babies are characters created by MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury, and are used in this story with the permission of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

Ebony is an original character created for this chapter by Ben10Man.

Elena, Esteban, Francisco, and the other members of the Avalor royal family are from "Elena of Avalor".

Elena's powers from Takaina is a reference to events in the "Elena of Avalor" special "The Magic Within".

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

For more about the Wendarby Institute, see Chapter 35 of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia". Meanwhile, for more about a future house of the Wendarby Institute being named after Lucinda and her birth parents, see Chapter 36 of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia".

Gas lighting: as readers of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia" will remember, gas lighting was introduced to Enchancia Castle in Chapter 18.

Having a Wassailia dance was the idea of Going on and on and on.

Having Ebony arrive at the Crimson Force headquarters was the idea of Ben10Man (who also provided the dialog for the opening scene between Ebony, the female employee, and Faith). I then added onto the scene with Ebony being taken to see Scarlett.

Having Elena and Rapunzel get together was an idea suggested by Gabriel Snyder. In order to make it work, I had Elena and Rapunzel meet in Nonya and Molly's alternate reality.

Having Lydia being pregnant was the idea of Brigade701. Yes, we're once again veering away from Lydia canon as it were, but this is a different story where Lydia's future is different from GradGirl2010's stories.

Having one of the future Wendarby Institute's houses being named Cosmarune House was the idea of Brigade701.

Having "Peace and Joy" being sung in this chapter was the idea of Going on and on and on. I decided to have Sofia sing it, while being accompanied by Francisco.

"I understand," Candice said in a sympathetic way. "But, I never did what Esteban did. I never helped somebody evil take over a kingdom, or caused innocent people to be enslaved as a result. I'm sure Valtor and Maleficent had that in mind, but I turned good before they could do such a thing. By turning good, and preventing them from having Danika's amulet, I prevented a sad future" - this is a reference to events in Chapter 29 of my story "Dorrie".

In this chapter, the giving of gifts to the castle servants was inspired by the Season Two Christmas Special of "Downton Abbey" where the Crawleys carried out a similar ritual with their servants. Readers of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia" will remember a similar scene took place in Chapter 26.

Jaraslav Ignatyev: readers of my story "Dorrie: Book Two" will remember that Jaraslav Ignatyev is mentioned in Chapter 32 of that story.

Lydia and Eezeyal are from GradGirl2010's stories "My Sister's Keeper", "My Sister's Teacher", and "My Sister's Acceptance", and are used in my stories with the permission of GradGirl2010. Readers of my stories will remember that Lydia (in my stories) is Queen of the Kingdom of Lacorinth (being married to King Graham of Lacorinth).

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".

Madge is a character created by Brigade701, and is used in this story with the permission of Brigade701.

"Now Lovisa is talking about a full scale attack against Enchancia Castle and nearby Dunwitty," Ebony informed Scarlett - this is a nod to my story "The Storm". I will eventually be reimagining "The Storm" as part of "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia".

The dialog between King Roland and Princess Jade was provided by MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

The dialog between (Lady) Jade and Breeze was provided by MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

The dialog between Sky Clone, Angelica, Breeze, Dame Skyla, (Lady) Jade, and Queen Miranda was provided by MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

The House of Cosmarune: as readers of "Dorrie", "Dorrie: Book Two", and "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia" will remember, the House of Cosmarune is the magical house that Dorrie, Candice, Violet, Abby, and Scarlett's Royal Steward (Colette) belong to. The House of Cosmarune was originally created by Skyrimfan for Skyrimfan's stories "Lucinda the First" and "Rise to Power: Queen of Corona". Skyrimfan has given me permission to use the House of Cosmarune in my stories, and I have given Skyrimfan permission to use Dorrie and Candice in "Lucinda the First" and "Rise to Power: Queen of Corona".

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

The KIngdom of Corona is from "Tangled", and "Tangled: The Series" (which then became "Rapunzel's Tangled Adventure").

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 Wishing Well is originally from the "Sofia the First" episode "Two Princesses and a Baby" (and was also mentioned in the final episode of "Sofia the First", "Forever Royal").

Valtor is from "Winx Club", and was an ongoing character in my story "Dorrie".

Voyager, and Voyagers, are from the "Voyagers!" TV series.

"Well ... something we can agree on," Scarlett admitted - this line is inspired from a similar line in the animated movie "Chicken Run" where Mr. Tweedy points out that "the chickens are revolting!", and Mrs. Tweedy responds by saying "finally, something we agree on."

Disclaimer

"Chicken Run" and everything associated with it © Aardman Animations, DreamWorks Animation, DreamWorks Pictures, and Pathé.

Creamy and the other original ideas from Jolly Roger Brat are the property of Jolly Roger Brat, and are used in my stories with the permission of Jolly Roger Brat (under an agreement that the two of us may use things from each other's "Sofia the First" fan fiction stories).

Danika, JT, Roxy, the Chen babies, 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.

"Elena of Avalor" and everything associated with it © Craig Gerber, Disney Television Animation, Team TO, and Disney-ABC Domestic Television.

Lydia and Eezeyal are the property of GradGirl2010, and are used in my stories with the permission of GradGirl2010.

Madge and the other original ideas from Brigade701 are the property of Brigade701, and are used in this story with the permission of Brigade701.

"Sky Dancers" and everything associated with it © Galoob, Abrams Gentile Entertainment Inc, Gaumont Multimedia (now Xilam Animation), and Play Along Toys.

"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 House of Cosmarune, and everything associated with it, is the property of Skyrimfan, and is used in this story with the permission of Skyrimfan.

The 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.

"The Twilight Zone" (the 1959 to 1964 version) and everything associated with it © Cayuga Productions, Inc., and CBS Productions.

"Voyagers!" and everything associated with it © James D. Parriot Productions, Universal Television (MCA), and Scholastic Productions.

I only own Abby Cosmarune-Murphy, Candice Cosmarune-Cooper, Candice's alternate reality, Colonel Martinsen, Crimson Force, Dorrie Cosmarune-Cooper, Jaraslav Ignatyev, King Graham, Lovisa, Princess Eva, the Kingdom of Lacorinth, the portal to Candice's alternate universe, the portal to Nonya and Molly's alternate reality, the small red brick one room cottage located in back of Enchancia Castle, the village of Wendarby, and the Wendarby Institute.