Ever Realm Chronicles - a Sofia the First fanfic

Chapter 8: Discoveries

November 25, 1871

It was night at Enchancia Castle. In Hikari's bedroom, Hikari and Gatomon were asleep. On a nightstand next to Kari's bed, the Digivice that Hikari had been given started glowing. In a few moments, a digital monster emerged from the Digivice - a large bull-type creature that stood on its hind legs. The creature then started shooting thunder and lightning from its body.

"Who are you?!" Hikari asked, startled, as she woke up suddenly.

"I am Bullmon!" the creature announced with a male voice. "This castle is now mine!"

Sofia and Lucinda suddenly burst through the door with their wands drawn.

"Not so fast, pal!" Sofia snapped at Bullmon.

Bullmon shot off some thunder and lightning from his body and disappeared into thin air. Bullmon then reappeared in the courtyard of the castle, and started attacking the guards who were present.

"This isn't good!" Lucinda exclaimed as she viewed what was happening from Hikari's window.

"Let's get down there!" Sofia directed as she and Lucinda started running out into the hallway.

"Wait for us," Hikari said as she and Gatomon started running after Sofia and Lucinda.

"Stay here," Sofia ordered Kari and Gatomon. "It's safer here."

"But we can help," Hikari pointed out on behalf of herself and Gatomon.

Sofia thought about it for a few moments, then responded.

"Alright," Sofia acknowledged. "Come on."

In the courtyard

Sofia, Lucinda, Hikari, and Gatomon ran to the courtyard where Bullmon was battling with some castle guards. Bullmon, thanks to his thunder and lightning, was able to hold back the guards.

Hikari's amulet started glowing as she looked at Gatomon.

"Gatomon digivolve into ... Angewomon," Gatomon said as she transformed into a female Archangel creature. Gatomon, as Angewomon, then raised a bow and arrow and pointed them at Bullmon. "Celestial arrow," Angewomon shouted as she shot an arrow of light at Bullmon. A bolt of lightning came from Bullmon, destroying the arrow.

"You'll have to do better than that to defeat me," Bullmon boasted.

Hikari's amulet once again glowed, and she felt a presence behind her. Hikari turned around to see ... another Hikari, and another Gatomon.

"Hello," the other Hikari smiled. "Your amulet summoned me. I'm Kari Kamiya, your counterpart from the real universe."

"Nice to meet you, Kari," Hikari greeted Kari.

"Your amulet is very powerful," Kari remarked to Hikari. "With it's abilities, we can do something that's never been done before."

Kari's Gatomon then concentrated. "Gatomon digivolve into ... Angewomon." There were now two copies of Angewomon standing there. Hikari's Angewomon, and Kari's Angewoman, then put their backs to each other. Hikari's amulet started glowing brightly, as both copies of Angewomon concentrated.

"Angewoman digimerge into ... Ultra Angewoman," both copies of Angewomon declared as the two merged to become a giant version of Angewoman. Ultra Angewoman then raised a crossbow and arrow and pointed them at Bullmon. "Celestial crossbow," Ultra Angewoman shouted as she shot a giant arrow of light at Bullmon. The arrow hit Bullmon, destroying him in the process. Ultra Angewoman then disappeared, replaced by both versions of Gatomon.

"Nice work, girls," Sofia smiled at Hikari, Kari, and both versions of Gatomon.

Hikari's amulet started glowing again. In a few moments, Kari and her Gatomon disappeared into thin air on their way back home.

At that moment, Dorrie entered the courtyard with her wand drawn, followed by some additional guards.

"Is everything okay?" Dorrie asked, concerned. "We heard the commotion."

"Everything's fine," Sofia reassured Dorrie and the additional guards as she started explaining what had happened.

Later in the castle

Dorrie was patrolling the castle when she noticed a light coming under Queen Miranda's study door. Dorrie went over to the door of the study and knocked on the door.

"Queen Miranda?" Dorrie called out. "Is there anything I can do for you?"

"Come in," Miranda invited.

Dorrie opened the door and walked into the study to discover a man with medium-dark skin and short dark hair pointing a gun at Miranda.

"Do come in, Lady Dorrie," the man invited with a wicked grin. "And close the door behind you."

Dorrie closed the door and quickly brought out her wand.

"Release Queen Miranda immediately!" Dorrie ordered.

"I don't think so," the man responded. "I suggest you lower your wand unless you want your Queen getting hurt. Try anything, and I will act."

"Don't give in to his demands, Dorrie," Miranda directed.

"I have no choice, Queen Miranda," Dorrie said as she lowered her wand. "Your safety comes first."

"That's better," the man said as he continued pointing his gun at Miranda. "I've seen to it that we won't be disturbed, thanks to that Digivice I arranged to be delivered to Princess Hikari. It will keep everybody in the castle quite busy."

"I hate to burst your bubble, but that's been taken care of by Princess Sofia and Princess Lucinda. The monster that came from that Digivice has been defeated, and Princess Hikari is quite safe," Dorrie reported as Miranda sighed in relief.

"Damn!" the man exclaimed in anger, before calming down. "That plan might have backfired, but we can still have a nice little talk."

"What are we suppose to talk about, sir ... or should I say, The Master?" Dorrie responded.

"Ah!" the man smiled. "You know who I am. The question is, how do you know who I am?"

"I have my ways," Dorrie answered, trying to avoid answering the question.

"Oh, you'll answer my questions," The Master smiled. "You see, you have no choice. Either answer my questions, or your Queen gets it."

"I see your point," Dorrie acknowledged.

"How do you know who I am?" The Master wanted to know.

"Candice and I have seen the future of the Time Lords," Dorrie revealed.

"With the help of the First Story Keeper's Tardis I'd guess," The Master theorized. "Speaking of the First Story Keeper's Tardis, I did a scan of it and discovered it's been to Gallifrey sometime during the past few months. What was his Tardis doing on Gallifrey?"

"That's privileged information," Dorrie said, standing her ground as The Master pressed his gun against Miranda's head.

"I won't ask again!" The Master warned. "Answer the damned question!"

Dorrie realized that The Master was holding all the aces as it were. She had no choice but to answer.

"The First Story Keeper, Candice, and I ... were meeting with The Division," Dorrie answered.

"I can see why they might want to talk to the First Story Keeper," The Master admitted. "But what do you and your sister, who are two non-Time Lords, have to do with The Division?" The Master wanted to know.

"They threatened to take away the First Story Keeper's Tardis unless we worked for them," Dorrie revealed.

"So, self-preservation as it were," The Master theorized.

"Yes," Dorrie agreed.

"What work do the three of you do for The Division?" The Master wanted to know.

"The Division wants the three of us to keep tabs on The Doctor," Dorrie answered.

"The Doctor has been gone from Gallifrey for ages," The Master remarked. "Why would The Division want people to keep tabs on The Doctor now?"

"It's complicated," Dorrie responded.

"I'm holding a gun to your Queen's head," The Master pointed out. "I suggest you tell me something more than it's complicated."

"The Division wants the First Story Keeper, Candice, and I to keep tabs on a past regeneration of The Doctor who is also a woman," Dorrie revealed.

"There have been no past regenerations of The Doctor who has been a woman," The Master said in a disbelieving voice. "The only woman Doctor is the blond-haired one who exists right now."

"That's what you think," Dorrie chuckled under her breath, just loud enough for The Master to hear.

"Explain yourself!" The Master barked.

"This is going to come as a shock to you," Dorrie began. "The Doctor has had many regenerations before the regenerations you know of."

"How is that possible?!" The Master demanded to know as he continued to point his gun at Miranda's head.

"Because The Doctor ... is an alien to Gallifrey," Dorrie reluctantly answered. "She's not one of you. But all of you Time Lords are who you are today because of her."

"You're not making any sense!" The Master barked in anger as he held Miranda in a threatening way.

"One of your scientists in the past discovered who you know as The Doctor while exploring an alien planet," Dorrie explained. "The person you know as The Doctor had extraordinary regeneration abilities that your people lacked at the time. The scientist brought The Doctor to Gallifrey and used DNA extraction techniques to pass those regeneration abilities on to your people. That fact, however, was kept from your people. Over time, your people just accepted the fact that they could regenerate, never knowing the real truth that regeneration was thanks to an alien. Eventually, The Doctor's memories of being an alien were erased to keep the secret."

"What?!" The Master exclaimed in shock.

"It's the truth," the First Story Keeper said as he appeared out of thin air.

"Our history ... Time Lord history ... is based on a lie?" The Master asked the First Story Keeper in disbelief.

"I'm afraid so," the First Story Keeper confirmed calmly. "Release your hostage. You've found out what you wanted to know."

"This can't be," The Master said in disbelief, before turning violently angry. "NOOOOOOOOO!"

At that point, Miranda managed to break away from The Master. At that same moment, Dorrie raised her wand and fired at The Master who took cover behind Miranda's desk. In a few moments, Dorrie, Miranda, and the First Story Keeper heard a strange sound from where The Master took cover. Dorrie and the First Story Keeper carefully went over to where The Master had taken cover, only to discover that The Master was gone.

"He must have used his Tardis' transporter to leave here," the First Story Keeper theorized.

"What have I done?!" Dorrie asked in despair as she sat down. "I've told that madman everything."

"You had no choice, Dorrie," the First Story Keeper said in a reassuring voice. "If it makes you feel any better, you were always meant to be the one to tell him."

"What?!" Dorrie asked, shocked.

"Let's just say I've been further ahead in time than you and Candice," the First Story Keeper revealed. "I've known things that you and Candice didn't know. I kept quiet to preserve the timeline."

"Even with you knowing that The Master would go to Gallifrey and in a fit of anger destroy the Time Lords?" Dorrie wanted to know.

"It was a fixed event in time and space," the First Story Keeper explained. "It had to happen because it was a major historical event that couldn't be changed. I believe Voyagers call such an event a watershed event - something that affects everything around it. Change one aspect of it and it disrupts what needs to happen."

"You're right, of course," Dorrie quietly agreed. "If there's a bright side to this, The Division will no longer be around. It would appear we're off the hook with them."

"Then it was a good thing you and Candice negotiated with The Division when you did," the First Story Keeper winked. "That negotiation resulted in Voyager Command getting a Tardis of their own."

"Would somebody mind telling me what exactly is going on," Miranda requested of Dorrie and the First Story Keeper.

"I suggest you have a seat, Queen Miranda," the First Story Keeper responded. "There are things you now need to know."

As Miranda sat down, the First Story Keeper and Dorrie explained about the Secret Library, the First Story Keeper, the upcoming future of the Time Lords, and Voyager Command's top-secret Tardis program. Miranda then considered what she had heard.

"I think it would be wise to keep what happened here in my study a secret," Miranda advised. "I don't want my husband and children worrying about my safety, and it might be wise to keep the Secret Library a secret. Let's just keep what happened here between the three of us."

"A wise decision, Queen Miranda," the First Story Keeper agreed as Dorrie nodded her head yes.

The next day

Sofia and Lucinda were summoned to King Roland's study.

"Ladies," Roland started. "We have to discuss last night's incident. That device you gave Hikari turned out to be dangerous, and Hikari could have been hurt as a result."

"We're very sorry for that," Sofia apologized.

"We didn't realize that the device would do harm," Lucinda explained.

"That's all well and good, but I can't have anything like that happening again," Roland cautioned. "I need to know where you got that device."

"Dad, Lucy and I are sorry about what happened ..." Sofia started when a knock came at the door.

"Enter," Roland directed.

Baileywick came in with his older brother, Nigel.

"Pardon the interruption, King Roland," Baileywick apologized. "My brother, Nigel, wishes an audience with you."

"Right now, we're in the middle of an important discussion," Roland pointed out.

"If I may, King Roland?" Nigel requested. "If I might speak to you in private, I believe I could clear up some things."

"Very well," Roland agreed. "Sofia, Lucinda, Baileywick - please wait out in the hall."

Sofia, Lucinda, and Baileywick walked out into the hall, and sat down on a couch, while Roland and Nigel had a discussion behind closed doors. After a while, Roland walked out into the hall.

"Sofia, Lucinda," Roland started, "please step into my study. Baileywick, that will be all for now."

"Yes, King Roland," Baileywick acknowledged as he left to perform his other duties.

Sofia and Lucinda followed Roland into his study where Nigel was waiting. Roland closed the door to his study, then looked at Sofia and Lucinda.

"Nigel has just told me about Warehouse Ten," Roland announced as Sofia and Lucinda gasped. "While I'm not happy that I was kept in the dark about such a place existing within the kingdom, I understand why it has to be kept a secret."

Nigel turned to Sofia and Lucinda. "I have just appointed King Roland to be a Regent," Nigel reported. "In that way, your father may be informed on a regular basis about the activities at Warehouse Ten."

"You'll find that in my position as King, I can give the warehouse help - in an off-the-record way, of course," Roland announced.

"Sofia, Lucinda," Nigel started, "I'll need to take that Digivice back to the warehouse. It's far too dangerous to be outside of the warehouse."

"We have it right here," Lucinda acknowledged as she brought out the Digivice from her purse and handed it to Nigel.

"Might I suggest it be locked up in the warehouse's dark vault?" Sofia suggested. "It's really a very dangerous little device, and who knows what else it could do."

"A wise precaution, Princess Sofia," Nigel agreed before turning back to Roland. "King Roland, I'd like to request Lady Genevieve and her page meet us in the castle courtyard. I have something that rightfully belongs to Lady Genevieve."

"I'll see that they are summoned immediately," Roland acknowledged.

In about fifteen minutes, Genevieve and Leandra walked out into the courtyard to discover Roland, Sofia, Lucinda, and Nigel standing there. Also in the courtyard was a wagon with a man standing next to it.

"King Roland, you wanted us?" Genevieve asked.

"Nigel here has something for you," Roland answered.

"Malcolm," Nigel said to the man standing next to the wagon. "Please bring out the item."

Malcolm brought out a long item wrapped in burlap. Malcolm then handed the item to Nigel, who in turn handed it to Genevieve.

"This is for you, Lady Genevieve," Nigel announced. "Please open it."

Genevieve carefully unfolded the burlap to discover ... the Sword of Arccod, the very sword she had been searching for.

"My Lady!" Leandra gasped in awe.

"How?" Genevieve asked Nigel, taken off guard.

"I belong to an organization that stores magical objects such as this," Nigel revealed. "Since the sword is meant for you, we decided it was only right for you to have it."

"Oh, thank you, sir!" Genevieve exclaimed in happiness as she hugged Nigel.

"You're very welcome," Nigel smiled as a magical portal suddenly appeared near them.

"I guess that's our way home," Leandra said sadly.

"Why so sad?" Genevieve wanted to know.

"I've become accustomed to this time, My Lady," Leandra admitted. "I should hate to leave it."

"I feel the same way, Leandra," Genevieve agreed. "How about we just stay here, then?"

"Oh yes, My Lady!" Leandra happily exclaimed.

In a few moments, the magical portal disappeared.

"Now that you're staying, I guess it's time to give you this," Nigel said as he handed an envelope to Genevieve. "I don't know how, but Queen Scarlett of Cinnibar always seems to know these things."

Genevieve opened the envelope and read a letter that was inside the envelope.

Dear Lady Genevieve, and Leandra:

Now that the two of you have decided to stay in this time, I extend an invitation on behalf of my daughter Princess Faith for the two of you to join Crimson Force. The two of you would make fine agents, and you would be most welcome in Cinnibar.

My daughter and I eagerly await your decision.

Signed:

Queen Scarlett Katherine Felchenerow of Cinnibar

"Queen Scarlett of Cinnibar has extended an invitation for me and Leandra to join something called Crimson Force," Genevieve announced to those present.

"A high honor," Roland acknowledged. "Scarlett doesn't issue such invitations every day."

"Would you like to go to Cinnibar, Leandra?" Genevieve asked.

"I've heard much of the kingdom, My Lady," Leandra acknowledged. "It would be an honor to follow you there."

"Then I'll send a message to Scarlett saying you've accepted her invitation," Roland smiled at Genevieve and Leandra. "I know she'll be pleased."

November 27, 1871

Sofia, Lucinda, and Roland were aboard a flying carriage in flight. In a little while, the flying carriage landed in front of a mansion. Sofia, Lucinda, and Roland then stepped off of the carriage and went inside the mansion. When they went inside, a butler walked up to them.

"Welcome, Regents," the butler greeted.

Sofia, Lucinda, and Roland walked down to the basement of the mansion. Once in the basement, they walked into a room that contained a bookcase. Sofia pulled on one of the books in the bookcase. The bookcase then slid open, revealing a hidden passageway. The three then walked down the passageway until they reached a huge iron door that was shut. Next to the iron door was a flat panel. Sofia and Lucinda placed their palms on the panel.

"Regent Sofia Amanda Balthazar Milledtion - identity confirmed," a female computer voice announced. "Regent Lucinda Chloe Magwin Milledtion - identity confirmed," the female computer voice continued.

The huge iron door then opened.

"We'll get your palm print scanned into the system, and then you'll be able to use the entry panel as well," Sofia announced to Roland.

Sofia, Lucinda, and Roland walked past the huge iron door, and then the door shut behind them. The three walked down a lighted hallway and soon found themselves on a balcony that overlooked the interior of a vast underground warehouse.

"Dad," Sofia started, "welcome to Warehouse Ten."

As Roland took a look at the warehouse, he noticed many rows of shelves - too many for him to count. The shelves were filled with a variety of paranormal artifacts. Roland continued to look upon the warehouse and noticed it stretched out as far as the eye could see. This was clearly a huge place.

"Would you like a tour of the warehouse, Dad?" Lucinda asked.

"I'd like that," Roland answered, curious to discover what the warehouse had to offer.

As Sofia, Lucinda, and Roland walked down an iron staircase, Roland looked at the warehouse in awe. For Roland, one thing was for sure - life had just become much more interesting.

At that same moment at Scarlett's palace in Cinnibar, Scarlett sighed as she sat on her throne and sulked next to Faith who was sitting on her throne as Colette and Hematite looked up at Scarlett as they walked in.

"Um, Mom? You didn't just come back from the laboratory, did you?" Faith asked, concerned.

"Where else?" Scarlett responded bitterly. "I'm sorry, guys, but no matter what I do, I can't find a way to remove the Curse of the Owl Beast."

"Scarlett, why don't you let us help you?" Hematite asked.

"It's no use, Hematite," Scarlett sighed. "I've tried everything. Every single spell, potion, and artifact I can get my hands on. Nothing works."

"My Queen," Colette said, laying a hand on Scarlett's shoulder. "I know you don't want to hear this, but if there's nothing more you can do, maybe it's time to ... give up."

"I can't," Scarlett said, removing her friend's hand from her shoulder. "I owe it to anyone who may be afflicted with the curse in the future. Most of all, I owe it to Eda."

"What you need is a diversion," Colette suggested. "We have two guests waiting in the hall - Lady Genevieve and her page."

"Well, some good news after all," Scarlett managed to smile. "Show them in."

Colette walked to the door to the throne room and opened it. She then motioned Genevieve and Leandra to come into the throne room.

"Lady Genevieve, Leandra," Scarlett greeted. "My daughter and I are pleased that you accepted our invitation."

"It is our honor, Queen Scarlett, Princess Faith," Genevieve acknowledged as she and Leandra curtsied, then stood up again. "Since Leandra and I are staying in this time, we thought we would take you up on your gracious offer."

"We're pleased to have you," Scarlett warmly said to Genevieve and Leandra as she motioned Hematite and Colette to come over. "This is my royal sorceress, Hematite. And this is my royal steward, Lady Colette Cosmarune."

"Royal sorceress Hematite, Lady Colette," Genevieve said in acknowledgment. "A pleasure to meet the two of you."

"I'm the head of Crimson Force," Faith announced to Genevieve and Leandra. "I imagine you'd like to know exactly what Crimson Force is."

"Yes, Princess Faith," Genevieve responded as Leandra nodded her head yes.

"Crimson Force is devoted to dealing with threats to our world," Faith began. "Crimson Force is outside all governments, operating as an independent force. We fight for the future on behalf of innocent people everywhere."

"This sounds like a worthy organization, one that Leandra and I would be honored to be part of," Genevieve said on behalf of herself and Leandra.

"Excellent," Faith smiled.

"We'll get the two of you settled into the palace, and then we'll introduce the two of you to our friends here at the palace," Scarlett announced to Genevieve and Leandra. "I think the two of you are going to make fine additions to our extended family here."

Back in Enchancia a few hours later, Roland, Sofia, and Lucinda were aboard a flying carriage flying back to Enchancia Castle. As the three relaxed in the passenger area of the flying carriage, Sofia turned to Roland.

"Dad," Sofia started. "Lucy and I have decided that since you know of Warehouse Ten, it's time you knew of something else as well."

"And what might that be?" Roland asked, curious.

"There's a secret place near our castle called The Secret Library," Lucinda announced. "The Secret Library contains books without an ending."

"Our job is to find an ending to a book when the opportunity arises," Sofia explained. "It involves going on an adventure whenever an ending to a book is needed. Through that adventure, by solving situations connected to the book, we manage to bring an ending to the book."

"It sounds like very important work," Roland acknowledged.

"Sof and I thought the time was right to show you, Mom, and Hikari The Secret Library," Lucinda smiled.

"What about Amber and James?" Roland wanted to know.

"The thing is, Dad ... they already know about The Secret Library," Sofia revealed.

"I see," Roland observed.

"It wasn't like we were trying to keep secrets from you and Mom," Lucinda explained. "It was just that we didn't want the library getting unwanted attention from those outside the castle."

"I can understand that," Roland agreed. "I'm honored that the two of you are letting me, your mother, and Hikari in on this secret."

As the flying carriage continued on its way to Enchancia Castle, Roland, Sofia, and Lucinda had a pleasant conversation in which Sofia and Lucinda described some of their adventures connected to The Secret Library.

Early that evening in Cinnibar

In Scarlett's palace, the royal dining hall was ready for the evening meal. Scarlett walked in with Genevieve and Leandra. As the three walked in, they noticed that the rest of the family was already gathered.

"You've met Faith, Colette, and Hematite," Scarlett said to Genevieve and Leandra. "Please allow me to introduce the two of you to the rest of our family."

"Thank you, Queen Scarlett," Genevieve said in acknowledgment as Scarlett motioned two women to come forward.

"These are two of my most trusted warriors, Constance and Zahita," Scarlett introduced the two to Genevieve and Leandra.

"A pleasure to meet you, ladies," Constance warmly greeted Genevieve and Leandra.

"Welcome aboard," Zahita smiled as Scarlett motioned and man and a woman over.

"This is Victor and his daughter, Rita," Scarlett introduced the two to Genevieve and Leandra.

"It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance," Victor warmly greeted Genevieve and Leandra.

"You're going to love it here," Rita happily added as a six-year-old girl walked up.

"This is my daughter, Skylar," Scarlett introduced the girl to Genevieve and Leandra.

"Hi," Skylar smiled at Genevieve and Leandra.

"Hello, little one," Genevieve smiled back. "A pleasure to meet you."

"Let's say we all sit down and have a wonderful supper," Scarlett suggested.

Everybody sat down at the table in the royal dining hall. Rita found herself sitting next to Leandra.

"Welcome to our extended family," Rita smiled at Leandra.

"Thank you," Leandra happily acknowledged.

"Afterward, if you'd like, we can get to know each other better," Rita offered. "I'd love the opportunity to make a new friend."

"I'd enjoy that very much," Leandra happily accepted as Scarlet and Genevieve smiled at the happy scene.

Meanwhile, back at Enchancia Castle, Dorrie and Queen Miranda were in Miranda's study.

"Sofia and Lucinda have announced they want to show off The Secret Library tomorrow," Miranda revealed.

"Well, that means you can know about The Secret Library and keep the secret about what happened here with The Master, ma'am," Dorrie acknowledged.

"I'm grateful for yours and the First Story Keeper's silence on this," Miranda said, grateful. "I don't like to keep secrets from my family ..."

"That's perfectly understandable, ma'am," Dorrie said in an understanding tone. "Sometimes it's necessary to keep a secret or two. Considering nobody here was hurt, there's no need to worry your family."

"I've always admired your understanding, Dorrie," Miranda smiled. "You've been a good friend over the years."

"Thank you, ma'am," Dorrie smiled back.

November 28, 1871

It was a Tuesday morning at Enchancia Castle. Sofia and Lucinda led the royal family through the secret passages of the castle until they reached the underground body of water which led to The Secret Library. Sofia and Lucinda's amulets then started glowing brightly as two unmanned boats approached.

"These boats will take us to The Secret Library," Sofia explained. "Please board the boats and we'll be on our way."

Everybody seated themselves in the two boats. In a few moments, the boats started their journey toward The Secret Library. As the boats traveled along, they passed by a series of storybook images: the Wishing Well and the Cottage of the Seven Dwarfs from "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs"; the Castle Clock, the Pumpkin Coach and the Glass Slippers from "Cinderella"; and King Stefan's Castle and the Spinning Wheel from "Sleeping Beauty".

As the journey continued, the Blue Lagoon from "The Little Mermaid" appeared, along with the Enchanted Rose from "Beauty and the Beast", Agrabah and the Magic Carpet from "Aladdin", and the mountain, and the wind, from "Pocahontas".

As everybody looked in awe at the scenes around them, the lilies, the Magnolia tree and the bridge from "Mulan" appeared, then the fireflies in the log from "The Princess and the Frog", the floating lanterns from "Tangled", the Ring of Stones and archery games from "Brave", and the ice droplets from "Frozen". As the journey came to an end, Te Fiti's island from "Moana" appeared. The boats then docked at the staircase which led to The Secret Library.

"If everybody will follow me, we'll go up to The Secret Library," Sofia instructed.

"Is it safe?" Hikari asked Lucinda, a bit concerned.

"It's perfectly safe," Lucinda answered in a reassuring voice.

"And you have me right at your side," Gatomon smiled at Hikari.

Everybody walked up the staircase as Sofia brought out the blue book which acted as a key to The Secret Library. Sofia placed the book in the keyhole of the door leading to The Secret Library. The door then opened as the book magically returned to Sofia's hand. Sofia then led everybody into the library.

"Oh my!" Roland exclaimed in awe.

"This is amazing," Miranda said, impressed.

"Wow!" Hikari and Gatomon exclaimed, impressed, as they looked around the library.

As Roland, Miranda, Hikari, and Gatomon walked around the library, Sofia, Lucinda, Amber, and James smiled at each other, happy that Roland, Miranda, Hikari, and Gatomon were impressed.

"If you'll follow me, I'll give you a tour of the library," Sofia announced.

Everybody followed Sofia as she showed off the various levels of the library. Everybody had a good time looking around the library. It was an enjoyable way to spend a morning.

Meanwhile, in Cinnibar at Scarlett's palace, Scarlett was in her laboratory when Hematite walked in. Hematite found Scarlett asleep at a desk. Hematite sighed and banged her staff against the ground.

"I may have found a solution to your whole curse problem," Hematite announced.

"I've tried everything, Hematite. Nothing works," Scarlett said in defeat.

"You haven't tried this yet because I found this book in the deepest recesses of your library," Hematite explained, showing the ancient book. "It tells of the legendary Twelve Talismans, each representing a different animal of the Chinese Zodiac."

"Ah, yes. It's coming back to me now," Scarlett remembered. "Each of the Twelve Talismans possesses its own unique ability that it grants to whoever holds it."

"And this passage tells of the Horse Talisman," Hematite began. "It states 'When activated, the Noble Horse will dispel all alien forces within.'"

"All alien forces," Scarlett realized. "Including curses."

"This could be what you've been searching for," Hematite smiled.

"Yeah," Scarlett admitted. "There's just one small problem ... the Talismans have been lost for centuries. No one knows where they are or if they ever existed at all."

"When there's a will, there's a way," Faith said, stepping into the library with a smirk on her face.

"And that means?" Scarlett asked, puzzled.

"We know people," Faith answered. "All we have to do is to ask for their help."

November 29, 1871

It was a Wednesday afternoon at Enchancia Castle. In Queen Miranda's study, some of Miranda's queen friends were having an informal meeting about helping society to recover from the recent illness which had struck the Ever Realm. As the queens met, a white-skinned twelve-year-old girl with blond hair and blue eyes was walking down a castle hallway admiring the artwork on the walls.

"Hello," a female voice greeted from behind the girl. "I'm Hikari."

"Hello," the girl smiled at Hikari as she turned around. "I'm Princess Elsie of Yensid. My mom is meeting with Queen Miranda. Since I've never seen Enchancia Castle before, my mom brought me along. You must be Princess Hikari."

"Yes," Hikari acknowledged. "I'm still getting use to the princess part."

"It took me a while as well," Elsie admitted. "Like you, I'm adopted."

"Then I'm not the only one?" Hikari asked about being adopted into royalty.

"There are plenty of us," Elsie smiled. "There's me, and there are my sisters Emily, Ellen, Georgia, and Gwen, and my brother George. We're all adopted. We live with our adopted father and mother, and our adopted sister, Princess Dianna of Yensid."

"How old are you?" Hikari asked Elsie. "You look my age. I'm eleven."

"I'm twelve," Elsie happily answered.

"Perhaps I could ask you some questions about Royal Prep?" Hikari requested. "I'm supposed to start there when school resumes in December."

"I'd be happy to," Elsie cheerfully responded. "I remember when I first started there."

"Perhaps the two of you would be more comfortable in the castle sitting room," Baileywick suggested as he walked up. "I could have some cookie dough ice cream served to you. It would be a delightful way for the two of you to spend an afternoon."

"Did you say cookie dough ice cream?" Elsie asked, excited, as Baileywick nodded his head yes. "I love cookie dough ice cream."

"Then if the two of you will follow me, I'll escort you to the sitting room," Baileywick announced. "Once you're seated, I'll make the arrangements for the ice cream to be served."

Baileywick led the two to the sitting room where Hikari and Elsie made themselves comfortable. As Baileywick left to make the arrangements for the ice cream, he turned around for a second to see Hikari and Elsie happily talking to each other. Baileywick smiled, happy to see Hikari making a new friend.

Meanwhile, in the ancient Elvin community of Rivendell, Candice stepped into her tent to relax where she found an unexpected visitor.

"Dorrie!" Candice exclaimed in happiness. "How did you get here?"

"I used my Omni," Dorrie smiled. "Since you're coming home in a few days, there are things I need to fill you in on."

"You've already written me about Princess Hikari," Candice remarked. "I'm looking forward to meeting her."

"There are things I need to tell you that can't be put into a letter," Dorrie explained. "Let's sit down, shall we?"

"Of course, Dorrie," Candice agreed. "So, what do you want to tell me?"

Dorrie told Candice about Sofia, Lucinda, Amber, and Abby finding out about the First Story Keeper's Tardis. Dorrie also told Candice about The Master's visit to Enchancia Castle, and also about the entire royal family now knowing about The Secret Library.

"Thanks for telling me about what has been going on," Candice said gratefully. "This way, I won't be caught off guard when I get back."

"You're welcome, Candice," Dorrie acknowledged.

"Can you stay for a little bit?" Candice asked Dorrie. "I have some leftover apple dumplings that the cook here made."

"I do love apple dumplings," Dorrie smiled. "Thank you, Candice."

"Anytime, Dorrie," Candice smiled back.

As Candice and Dorrie enjoyed the apple dumplings, they had a pleasant conversation. It was a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.

(End of Chapter 8).

Behind the scenes

In this edition of "Behind the scenes", I thought I'd share a recipe for apple dumplings like those Candice and Dorrie enjoyed at the end of this chapter.

Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings

Ingredients:

* 1 recipe pastry for double-crust pie.

* 6 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and cored.

* ½ cup butter.

* ¾ cup brown sugar.

* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.

* ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg.

* 3 cups water.

* 2 cups white sugar.

* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Butter a 9x13 inch pan.

On a lightly floured surface, roll pastry into a large rectangle, about 24 by 16 inches. Cut into 6 square pieces. Place an apple on each pastry square with the cored opening facing upward. Cut butter into 8 pieces. Place 1 piece of butter in the opening of each apple; reserve remaining butter for sauce. Divide brown sugar between apples, poking some inside each cored opening and the rest around the base of each apple. Sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg over the apples.

With slightly wet fingertips, bring one corner of pastry square up to the top of the apple, then bring the opposite corner to the top and press together. Bring up the two remaining corners, and seal. Slightly pinch the dough at the sides to completely seal in the apple. Repeat with the remaining apples. Place in prepared baking dish.

In a saucepan, combine water, white sugar, vanilla extract and reserved butter. Place over medium heat, and bring to a boil in a large saucepan. Boil for 5 minutes, or until sugar is dissolved. Carefully pour over dumplings.

Bake in preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes. Place each apple dumpling in a dessert bowl, and spoon some sauce over the top.

Author's notes

Angewoman, Digimon, Celestial arrow, Celestial crossbow, Digivice, Gatomon, Kari, and Ultra Angewoman are all from "Digimon: Digital Monsters".

"Because The Doctor ... is an alien to Gallifrey," Dorrie reluctantly answered. "She's not one of you. But all of you Time Lords are who you are today because of her." "You're not making any sense!" The Master barked in anger as he held Miranda in a threatening way. "One of your scientists in the past discovered who you know as The Doctor while exploring an alien planet," Dorrie explained. "The person you know as The Doctor had extraordinary regeneration abilities that your people lacked at the time. The scientist brought The Doctor to Gallifrey and used DNA extraction techniques to pass those regeneration abilities on to your people. That fact, however, was kept from your people. Over time, your people just accepted the fact that they could regenerate, never knowing the real truth that regeneration was thanks to an alien. Eventually, The Doctor's memories of being an alien were erased to keep the secret." - all of this is a reference to events seen in the "Doctor Who" episode "The Timeless Children".

Eda and the Curse of the Owl Beast are from "The Owl House".

Gallifrey is the planet of the Time Lords from "Doctor Who".

Gallifrey, Tardis, The Division, The Doctor, The Master, and the Time Lords are from "Doctor Who".

Genevieve and Leandra are original characters created by Brigade701 and are used in this story with the permission of Brigade701.

Having Scarlett inviting Genevieve and Leandra to join Crimson Force was based on an idea by Brigade701.

Hematite and Zahita are characters created by MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury and are used in this story with the permission of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.

Hikari is an alternate universe version of Hikari from "Digimon: Digital Monsters". Having Hikari appear in this story was the idea of Shaddowridder221. I decided to use Hikari's original Japanese name of Hikari to avoid confusion with Princess Kari from "Sofia the First".

Omni and Voyagers are from the "Voyagers!" TV series.

Princess Dianna of Yensid, Princess Elsie of Yensid, their mother, brother, and sisters are characters created by dbug27 and are used in this story with permission from dbug27. Dianna, Elsie, their mother, their brother, and sisters are from dbug27's story "a special princess".

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

Rita (A.K.A. Carla Delgado) and Victor (A.K.A Victor Delgado) are from "Elena of Avalor".

Scarlett's daughter, Skylar, is an original character created by Jake H Voronkov for my stories (the fact that Scarlett's daughter, and Elena of Avalor's Jaguin, share the same name is simply an interesting quirk of fate).

The ancient Elvin community of Rivendell is from "The Lord of the Rings".

The Division is a secretive organization of the Time Lords introduced in the Jodie Whittaker episodes of "Doctor Who". While the Time Lords themselves do not for the most part interfere with situations across the universe, The Division does interfere with situations across the universe, getting involved when they see fit. An earlier regeneration of The Doctor (the Ruth Doctor) worked for The Division but eventually left on less than friendly terms. The Division has been since trying to track down the Ruth Doctor for leaving their ranks.

The Kingdom of Cinnibar is a kingdom created by Jake H Voronkov and is used in my stories with permission from Jake H Voronkov.

The Kingdom of Yensid is a kingdom created by dbug27 and is used in this story with permission from dbug27.

The Master in this chapter is the Sacha Dhawan Master from the Jodie Whittaker episodes of "Doctor Who".

The Scarlett Warrior (A.K.A. Scarlett) (A.K.A. Queen Scarlett) (A.K.A. Queen Scarlett Katherine Felchenerow) is a character created by Jake H Voronkov and is used in my stories with permission from Jake H Voronkov. Meanwhile, the character of Colette (A.K.A. Lady Colette Cosmarune) is a character that I and Jake H Voronkov created and is based on Bayonetta from the video game "Bayonetta" (please note that Colette, and Madam Collette of Enchancia Castle, are two different characters who are not related in any way, shape, or form).

The scene in The Secret Library: when going to The Secret Library, I added in Te Fiti's island from "Moana" since "Moana" had not yet been released when "The Secret Library" episode of "Sofia the First" premiered. As for inside The Secret Library, Sofia and Lucinda would not have mentioned the room where dark books are kept, nor would they have mentioned the room where the First Story Keeper's Tardis was, for obvious security reasons.

The scene in the throne room of Scarlett's palace was the idea of Jake H Voronkov (who also provided some of the dialog for the scene). I added in Genevieve and Leandra to that scene so that their joining Crimsom Force (the idea of Brigade701) could be further explored. Meanwhile, Eda and the Curse of the Owl Beast are from "The Owl House".

The scene with Scarlett and Hematite discussing the Twelve Talismans was the idea of Jake H Voronkov (who also provided some of the dialog for the scene). The Twelve Tailsmans are from "Jackie Chan Adventures".

"There have been no past regenerations of The Doctor who has been a woman," The Master said in a disbelieving voice. "The only woman Doctor is the blond-haired one who exists right now." - the past regeneration of The Doctor as a woman is a reference to the Ruth Doctor from the Jodie Whittaker episodes of "Doctor Who". Meanwhile, the blond-haired woman Doctor is a reference to the current Doctor played by Jodie Whittaker.

Warehouse Ten is from my stories "Dorrie", "Dorrie: Book Two", "Once Upon a Time in Enchancia", "Changes", and "Enchancia Castle". It is a warehouse housing paranormal artifacts that existed before the current Warehouse 13 (as seen in the TV series "Warehouse 13").

Disclaimer

"Aladdin" and everything associated with it © Disney.

"Bayonetta" and everything associated with it © PlatinumGames, Sega, and Nintendo.

"Beauty and the Beast" and everything associated with it © Disney.

"Brave" and everything associated with it © Disney.

"Cinderella" and everything associated with it © Disney.

"Digimon: Digital Monsters" and everything associated with it © Akiyoshi Hongo, Bandai, and Toei Animation.

"Doctor Who" and everything associated with it © BBC.

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

"Frozen" and everything associated with it © Disney.

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

Hematite, Zahita, 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.

"Jackie Chan Adventures" and everything associated with it © The JC Group, Blue Train Entertainment, Adelaide Productions, and Sony Pictures Television.

"Moana" and everything associated with it © Disney.

"Mulan" and everything associated with it © Disney.

"Pocahantas" and everything associated with it © Disney.

Princess Dianna of Yensid, Princess Elsie of Yensid, their mother, their brother and sisters, and the other original ideas from dbug27 are the property of dbug27 and are used in this story with the permission of dbug27.

"Sleeping Beauty" and everything associated with it © Disney.

"Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" and everything associated with it © Disney.

"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.

"Tangled" and everything associated with it © Disney.

"The Little Mermaid" and everything associated with it © Disney.

"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 Owl House" and everything associated with it © Disney Television Animation, Disney-ABC Domestic Television, and Disney Channel.

"The Princess and the Frog" and everything associated with it © Disney.

The Scarlett Warrior and the other original ideas from Jake H Voronkov are the property of Jake H Voronkov and are used in my stories with the permission of Jake H Voronkov.

"Torchwood" and everything associated with it © BBC.

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

"Warehouse 13" and everything associated with it © Universal Cable Productions, NBC Universal Television Distribution, and SyFy.

I only own Abby Cosmarune-Murphy, Bullmon, Candice Cosmarune-Murphy, Constance, and Dorrie Cosmarune-Cooper.