Ever Realm Chronicles - a Sofia the First fanfic
Songs in this chapter: "A Million Dreams (Reprise)" from "The Greatest Showman"; a slightly altered version of "What a Wonderful World"; and a slightly altered version of "The Call" from "The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian".
Chapter 23: A Time of Change
September 4, 1872
In the Village of Wendarby, it was a Wednesday morning. At the Wendarby Institute, it was the first day of classes for the new school. In the school's great hall, the dining tables were ready for the four houses of Wendarby - Cosmarune, Felosark, Magwin, and Scorpella. As the Wendarby students waited outside of the great hall, a male faun walked up on two legs.
"Hello, students," the male faun happily greeted. "Allow me to introduce myself. I'm Professor Richard Percullian, and I'm the deputy headmaster here at Wendarby. You may call me Mister P if you like. Since you've all been already assigned to school houses of your choosing, please form four lines, with each line having students from your house."
One line was formed for Cosmarune House, one line was formed for Felosark House, one line was formed for Magwin House, and one line was formed for Scorpella House.
"Excellent," Professor Percullian approved. "If your four lines will follow me, I'll escort you into the great hall where you'll be seated at your school tables."
Professor Percullian led the students into the great hall, and guides sat students at their assigned tables. Professor Percullian then walked to a long table where the staff from Wendarby were seated. At that same moment, Headmaster Merlin stepped forward.
"Welcome to your first day at the Wendarby Institute," Merlin greeted. "It is a pleasure to see Cosmarunes, Felosarks, Magwins, and Scorpellas all gathered here ready to learn."
Meanwhile, elsewhere in the Ever Realm at the Hogsmeade Medical College, the midwife students were gathered in a lecture hall. Among the students were Dorrie, Candice, and Dianna. In a few moments, a woman walked into the lecture hall and stood before the students.
"Hello, ladies," the woman warmly greeted. "My name is Amara Cruvus, and I'm the head of the midwife program here at Hogsmeade. All of you have successfully completed the entrance requirements for placement into this finishing program. I welcome you to Hogsmeade, and I wish you the best of luck."
Amara stopped for a few moments as another woman walked up carrying a wooden box. After a few moments, the wooden box was placed on a table and the woman who brought the box walked out of the lecture hall.
"Ladies," Amara continued. "When I call your name, please come up and collect your student midwife pin. Since we have royalty in the room, let's start with them. Princess Dorrie, Princess Candice, and Princess Dianna, please come forward."
Dorrie, Candice, and Dianna stepped forward.
"Princesses," Amara smiled. "Each of you has scored highly on the entrance exam. It is a pleasure to welcome the three of you to the Hogsmeade midwife program."
Amara then personally put a pin on Dorrie's blouse, a pin on Candice's blouse, and a pin on Dianna's blouse as the rest of the midwife students clapped in approval.
Still elsewhere in the Ever Realm, at the High Hope Dance Academy, students were gathered in the great hall when Dame Skyla walked up and stood before the students.
"Greetings, students," Dame Skyla started. "For returning students, we begin a new year at High Hope Dance Academy. For new students, I welcome you to your first year at High Hope. I wish every one of you continued success."
The students clapped as Dame Skyla walked off. Soon, the students were leaving the great hall on their way to various classes. In a hallway, Dame Skyla found Sofia studying a school map mounted on the wall.
"Princess Sofia," Dame Skyla greeted. "Is there anything I may help you with?"
"This is my first day here," Sofia explained. "I'm having a hard time finding my way around."
"Not to worry," Dame Skyla said in a reassuring voice. "What is your first class?"
"Dance basics," Sofia answered.
"I'll walk you there," Dame Skyla offered.
"Thank you, Dame Skyla," Sofia responded, pleased.
That afternoon
At Enchancia Castle, Dorrie and Candice had arrived home from Hogsmeade Medical College. As their flying carriage pulled into the castle courtyard, Baileywick walked up.
"Princesses," Baileywick greeted. "Lady Alexandra would like to meet with you in her room."
"We'll be there shortly," Dorrie acknowledged on behalf of herself and Candice.
In a few minutes, Dorrie and Candice arrived at Lady Alexandra's door. Dorrie then knocked on the door.
"Enter," Lady Alexandra invited.
"We were told you wanted to see us?" Candice asked.
"Yes," Lady Alexandra smiled. "Your marriages are this Saturday, and I'm pleased to tell you that each of you has learned everything you need to know. All except ... one thing."
"What would that be, Lady Alexandra?" Dorrie wanted to know, curious.
"My true identity," Lady Alexandra revealed as she brought out her silver Omni.
"You're a Voyager?" Candice asked, taken off guard.
"Yes," Lady Alexandra confirmed. "I'm with Department Six, the department charged with helping out Voyagers in special circumstances. I was sent here to help you prepare for your weddings. The truth be told, I have experience with royal weddings."
"Who exactly are you?" Dorrie asked, curious.
"It is time I revealed my true appearance to the two of you," Lady Alexandra announced. "I hope this won't be too much of a shock to you."
"Your true appearance?" Candice asked, taken off guard.
"Yes," Lady Alexandra confirmed. "I have a Transformation Manipulator implanted inside of me."
Alexandra used her mind to switch off her Transformation Manipulator. In a few moments, standing before Dorrie and Candice was ... a young twenty-five-year-old Queen Elizabeth II.
"Oh my God!" Dorrie exclaimed in shock.
"Your Majesty," Candice acknowledged as she and Dorrie curtsied.
"Now, now, none of that," Elizabeth instructed. "That was a previous life. I'm a Voyager now."
"It's just that ... Candice and I have been schooled in the official ways, ma'am," Dorrie started. "It's customary to curtsy when in the presence of royalty."
"Understandable," Elizabeth responded. "But, the three of us have become friends, so I think some informality is called for."
"As you wish, ma'am," Candice said as she and Dorrie resumed their normal posture.
"Much better," Elizabeth approved. "You should know I'll be leaving tonight. My mission here is completed."
"Will we ever see you again, ma'am?" Dorrie wondered.
"The three of us are Voyagers," Elizabeth reminded Dorrie and Candice. "We're bound to cross paths again, either in the field or at Voyager Command."
Elizabeth then used her Transformation Manipulator to change back into her Lady Alexandra form a few moments before a maid arrived with tea. Dorrie, Candice, and Elizabeth spent the rest of the afternoon having a pleasant conversation.
That evening, Dorrie and Candice decided to take a walk in the castle gardens. As they walked, they talked to each other.
"You know, I'm really going to miss this place," Candice remarked.
"This is the only home you've ever known," Dorrie responded.
"Yes," Candice acknowledged. "When I was created by Maleficent, I lived with her and the other baddies. But that wasn't really a home - just a place to stay. Then I came here to Enchancia Castle and this became a true home."
"I'm going to miss this place, too," Dorrie admitted. "There were so many good times here."
"The best," Candice smiled.
Dorrie then remembered a song from the past and started singing. "Every night I lie in bed. The brightest colors fill my head. A million dreams are keeping me awake."
Dorrie and Candice then started singing together."I think of what the world could be. A vision of the one I see. A million dreams is all it's gonna take."
Candice then ended the song."A million dreams for the world we're gonna make."
At that moment, Dorrie and Candice heard a bird flying up to them. The two turned to see ... Wormwood.
"Wormwood?!" Dorrie asked, taken off guard. "What are you doing here?"
"Repaying a favor, Princess Dorrie," Wormwood answered as he dropped two roses he was carrying in his beak. "One for each of you. Congratulations on your upcoming marriages."
"Thank you," Candice acknowledged.
"What happened after I let you go?" Dorrie asked Wormwood, curious.
"I came across a witch who took me in," Wormwood answered. "It's a good life."
"Glad to hear it," Dorrie acknowledged, pleased.
"I've best be going," Wormwood said as he outstretched his wings. "All my best to you, princesses."
Wormwood then took flight as Dorrie and Candice watched.
"Well, that was a surprise," Candice remarked.
"Yes, it was," Dorrie admitted. "I guess anybody is capable of changing. Just as you did when you left Maleficent."
Candice smiled at Dorrie's kind remark.
"We've best be getting inside," Dorrie reminded Candice. "Lucinda will be wanting to meet with me, and Indigo and Lily will be wanting to meet with you."
Within the castle itself, the castle staff were starting to make preparations for the wedding of Frederick and Dorrie, and Everett and Candice. It would be a double wedding ceremony, with all the pomp and circumstance associated with a royal event. And, King Roland had spared no expense to make sure it would be a dream experience for everybody attending.
In Dorrie's room, Lucinda, as one of Dorrie's bridesmaids, was going over some last-minute details with Dorrie. After they had finished, the two had a pleasant conversation.
"So, who has Candice picked as her bridesmaids?" Lucinda asked, curious.
"Lily and Indigo," Dorrie answered.
"A good choice," Lucinda smiled, remembering her witch friends since childhood. "And I understand you and Candice will be having a joint Maid of Honor?"
"Yes - Princess Faith of Cinnibar," Dorrie proudly announced.
"And Daddy will be giving away the brides," Amber cheerfully announced as she entered Dorrie's room. "Truth be told, he's looking forward to the honor. He's always had a soft spot for Dorrie and Candice."
Meanwhile, in Candice's room, Lily and Indigo were going over some last-minute details involving Candice's wedding dress.
"Something's missing," Indigo commented about the dress.
"Yes," Lily agreed. "But I can't put my finger on it."
"Perhaps fancier lace?" Indigo announced, as she pointed her wand at Candice's wedding dress, and chanted "Lacesario Enhance". The lace on the dress then became a fancier style of lace.
"I like it!" Candice exclaimed, pleased. "Thank you, Indigo."
"What are friends for?" Indigo smiled at Candice.
Lily then came over and hugged Candice and Indigo.
"What was that for?" Candice asked.
"Just happy," Lily smiled.
"She's always been like that," Indigo happily said of Lily. "One of the things I like about her."
"Thank you, Indigo," Lily said, pleased.
"What can I say?" Indigo smiled at Lily. "You've been a good influence on me."
Candice happily looked upon the touching scene. It was true that Lily had been a good influence on Indigo. After Lucinda's Cauldronation Day ceremony back when they were children, Lily and Indigo got to know each other better and forged a deep friendship. Eventually, when Indigo decided to become a good witch, it was Lily who guided Indigo through the process.
As Candice, Indigo, and Lily talked, a knock came at the door.
"Come in," Candice invited.
The door opened and in walked Baileywick.
"You wanted to be reminded when it was getting close to Ten, Miss Indigo," Baileywick announced.
"Thank you, Mister Baileywick," Indigo acknowledged. "I have to use the Floo Network to get back to Wendarby. I have teaching tomorrow."
"I should be getting home as well," Lily added as she turned to Candice. "Indigo and I will see you and Dorrie on Saturday."
"If the two of you will follow me, I'll escort you to our Floo Network entrance," Baileywick instructed.
"See you on Saturday," Candice smiled as Indigo and Lily left with Baileywick.
The grand day arrives
It was now Saturday. In the ballroom of Enchancia Castle, Violet, along with nineteen-year-old Abby Murphy, were seeing that last-minute details for the wedding were being taken care of. In a few minutes, while the rest of the servants put the final pieces into place, Violet and Abby took a break.
"Looking good if I do say so myself," Violet smiled at the ballroom, pleased.
"It does indeed, ma'am," Abby happily agreed. "Dorrie and Candice will be so pleased."
"My two girls are getting married," Violet joyfully said as a tear of happiness formed in her eye. "They've grown into two fine women. They make a mother proud."
Abby smiled at Violet's happiness.
"So, Abby?" Violet started. "I hear your parents will be retiring in a few years?"
"That's the plan," Abby acknowledged. "I'll be staying on. I rather love this place."
"As do I," Violet admitted. "But, one day, I'll be leaving as well. And, when that day comes, I'll need to name a replacement for myself."
"I'm sure whoever you pick will be a most worthy candidate," Abby commented.
"Oh, I know you'll fit the bill nicely," Violet smiled at Abby.
"Me?!" Abby asked, taken off guard.
"Yes," Violet happily admitted. "I feel you'll make a fine head maid when I'm gone. You'd do me proud, Abby. And I'll be happy to know that there's a Voyager around to keep the Enchancian time line on track."
"Then, when that day comes, I'll do my best to reward your confidence in me," Abby promised. "Although, you should know I could only succeed you."
Violet smiled at Abby's compliment.
Meanwhile, in a fancy room in the castle, Sofia, Lucinda, Lily, and Indigo were helping Dorrie and Candice get ready for their big day. Dorrie and Candice were already in their wedding gowns. All that was left was some last-minute touches. As they were finishing up, a knock came at the door. Sofia went over and opened the door. Standing there was King Erik Fitzherbert of Corona.
"King Erik," Sofia smiled.
"Uncle Erik!" Dorrie and Candice exclaimed in glee.
"Uncle Erik?" Indigo asked Lucinda, puzzled.
"In his younger days, King Erik had his life saved by Dorrie and Candice's biological mother, Mary Cosmarune," Lucinda explained. "Since King Erik has no children, he requested that Dorrie and Candice call him Uncle."
"I was wondering if I could have a moment with Dorrie and Candice?" Erik requested.
"Of course," Sofia agreed as she, Lucinda, Lily, and Indigo left the room.
"Look at my two fine girls," Erik smiled at Dorrie and Candice. "All grown up and ready to be married. It seems like only yesterday the two of you were children."
"Thank you for coming, Uncle Erik," Dorrie smiled.
"It wouldn't have been the same without you," Candice happily added.
"Wild horses couldn't have kept me away," Erik beamed as he hugged Dorrie and Candice. "The two of you are marrying fine men, and I wish you all the happiness in the world."
Erik then brought out two small jewelry cases and handed them to Dorrie and Candice. "A token of my affection for each of you."
Dorrie and Candice opened the small jewelry cases and discovered a sterling silver bracelet in each case.
"Thank you, Uncle Erik," Dorrie said, pleased, as she put on her bracelet.
"We'll treasure these always," Candice smiled as she put on her bracelet.
At that moment, a knock came at the door. The door opened, and in walked a twelve-year-old girl - Princess Faith of Cinnibar. Faith looked like a twelve-year-old girl but was in fact an immortal girl who was hundreds of years old.
"We're ready to start," Faith happily announced.
"I'll take my place in the audience," Erik announced as Sofia, Lucinda, Lily, and Indigo reentered the room.
The ceremony
In the ballroom of Enchancia Castle, the guests sat as they waited for Dorrie and Candice to arrive. At an alter that had been set up in the ballroom, Frederick and Everett, along with Reverend Williams from Dunwiddie, waited as well. At that moment, Baileywick walked in and motioned the orchestra to start playing the wedding march.
As everybody turned to look at the entrance to the ballroom, Hikari walked out, serving as the flower girl. Behind Hikari was Faith, followed by Dorrie, Sofia, and Lucinda, followed by Candice, Lily, and Indigo.
As Dorrie and Candice walked to the alter, they looked around the ballroom. There were many guests in attendance. Among the guests were the Enchancian royal family and their friends, along with Sofia's older biological sister, Lydia; Lydia's husband, King Graham of Lacorinth; and Lydia and Graham's daughter, Emily. There was also Queen Scarlett along with Dorrie and Candice's Aunt Colette, and Colette's husband, Simon. In addition, there was Scarlett's younger sister, Ariana; and Scarlett's biological daughter, Skylar. There were also Frederick and Everett's parents and sister, many old friends from the village, as well as old friends from both Hexley Hall and Royal Prep.
As Dorrie and Candice continued looking around the ballroom, they noticed their adopted mother, Violet, proudly standing off to one side smiling at her daughters. With Violet were ... the ghosts of Dorrie and Candice's biological parents, Donald and Mary Cosmarune.
"All our best to you," Donald mouthed to Dorrie and Candice as Mary smiled.
Dorrie and Candice smiled back at Donald and Mary, happy that their biological parents had found a way to attend from beyond the grave. Dorrie and Candice then looked to see another familiar face standing among the crowd ... the Ruth Doctor.
"I wouldn't have missed this for anything," the Ruth Doctor mouthed to Dorrie and Candice. "Thank you for inviting me."
As Dorrie and Candice continued to walk to the alter, Roland got up and joined them. In a few moments, they reached the altar where Reverend Williams, Frederick, and Everett were waiting.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Reverend Williams started, "we are gathered here today to join Frederick and Dorrie, and Everett and Candice, in holy matrimony. Who gives away these women?"
"I do," Roland happily acknowledged.
"If there is anybody here who can show just cause why these couples should not be married, please let him or her speak now, or forever hold their peace," Reverend Williams requested.
Nobody said anything.
"Do you, Frederick, a prince of Ornburgh, take this woman, Dorrie, to be your lawfully wedded wife, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, until death do you part?" Reverend Williams asked Frederick.
"I do," Frederick smiled.
"Do you, Dorrie, a princess of Ornburgh and a lady of the House of Cosmarune, take this man, Frederick, to be your lawfully wedded husband, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, until death do you part?" Reverend Williams asked Dorrie.
"I do," Dorrie smiled.
"Do you, Everett, a prince of Ornburgh, take this woman, Candice, to be your lawfully wedded wife, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, until death do you part?" Reverend Williams asked Everett.
"I do," Everett happily answered.
"Do you, Candice, a princess of Ornburgh and a lady of the House of Cosmarune, take this man, Everett, to be your lawfully wedded husband, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, until death do you part?" Reverend Williams asked Candice.
"I do," Candice smiled.
"Please bring forth the rings," Reverend Williams requested.
The rings were brought up and handed to Reverend Williams.
"Frederick," Reverend Williams started. "Please place this ring on Dorrie's finger, and say, Dorrie, I give you this ring as a sign of my love and devotion."
Frederick placed the ring on Dorrie's finger. "Dorrie," Frederick smiled. "I give you this ring as a sign of my love and devotion."
"Dorrie," Reverend Williams again started. "Please place this ring on Frederick's finger, and say, Frederick, I give you this ring as a sign of my love and devotion."
Dorrie placed the ring on Frederick's finger. "Frederick," Dorrie smiled. "I give you this ring as a sign of my love and devotion."
"Everett," Reverend Williams instructed. "Please place this ring on Candice's finger, and say, Candice, I give you this ring as a sign of my love and devotion."
Everett placed the ring on Candice's finger. "Candice," Everett smiled. "I give you this ring as a sign of my love and devotion."
"Candice," Reverend Williams again instructed. "Please place this ring on Everett's finger, and say Everett, I give you this ring as a sign of my love and devotion."
Candice placed the ring on Everett's finger. "Everett," Candice smiled. "I give you this ring as a sign of my love and devotion."
"By the power invested in me by the Kingdom of Enchancia, I now pronounce these couples to be each husband and wife," Reverend Williams smiled. "Gentlemen, you may kiss your brides."
Frederick and Dorrie embraced, and Everett and Candice embraced, as everybody clapped.
"Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you Prince Frederick Beckenbauer and Princess Dorrie Beckenbauer of Ornburgh, and Prince Everett Beckenbauer and Princess Candice Beckenbauer of Ornburgh," Reverend Williams happily announced.
Everybody in attendance clapped in celebration of the happy couples as Fritz and Eileen (the royal singers of Enchancia) stepped forward.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Fritz announced. "Eileen and I have a special song for our newly wedded couples".
Everybody clapped as the orchestra in the ballroom started playing. Fritz and Eileen then started singing.
"We see trees of green, red roses too. We see them bloom for me and you. And we think to ourselves what a wonderful world."
"We see skies of blue and clouds of white. The bright blessed day, The dark sacred night. And we think to ourselves what a wonderful world."
"The colors of the rainbow so pretty in the sky. Are also on the faces of people going by. We see friends shaking hands saying how do you do. They're really saying I love you."
"We hear babies cry, we watch them grow. They'll learn much more, than we'll ever know. And we think to ourselves what a wonderful world. Yes, we think to ourselves what a wonderful world."
As Fritz and Eileen ended their song, everybody clapped in awe of the wonderful performance. In a few moments, Frederick and Dorrie, and Everett and Candice, walked to the courtyard where a carriage was waiting to take them for a ride around Dunwiddie. The ride was for the people of Dunwiddie to celebrate the new couples. Meanwhile, back in the castle, servants and kitchen help were readying tables in the ballroom. Many tables would be used to seat guests attending a dinner which would take place after the couples returned from Dunwiddie. A few of the tables would be used to hold food.
At one table, Doc's father was laying out sandwiches when seven-year-old Doc walked up.
"Could you use some help, Dad?" Doc asked.
"That would be nice," Doc's father smiled in appreciation. "Thank you."
In a little while, the carriage with Frederick and Dorrie, and Everett and Candice, arrived in Dunwiddie. As the carriage entered the main street of the village, people living in the village were lined up on both sides of the street. The carriage then slowly made its way down the street as those gathered cheered and waved. Aboard the carriage, the two couples happily waved to those gathered.
Halfway down the street, Mrs. Tweedle and the orphans in her care were gathered to see the carriage pass. Among the orphans were fourteen-year-old Bethany and twelve-year-old Louise.
"The princesses are beautiful," Louise said in awe to Bethany as the carriage passed.
"Yes, they are," Bethany happily agreed.
As Louise and Bethany talked, a sixteen-year-old white-skinned girl with brown hair stood nearby. The girl was not an orphan but was simply a bystander who was watching the carriage go by. The girl looked at Louise and Bethany and smiled.
"Little do they know that soon they'll be part of the family," the girl happily thought to herself about Louise and Bethany. "They'll later become my aunts."
The girl then turned her attention to the carriage that was making its way down the street.
"Happy life Mom and Dad, Aunt Dorrie, and Uncle Frederick," the girl thought to herself. "We'll meet down the road."
At that moment, an implant behind the girl's ear activated, and a female voice came into the girl's head, not audible by anybody standing nearby.
"This is VTS Hyperion to Princess Rachel," the female voice said in the girl's head. "If you're done, the Captain would like to get underway."
"I'll be right there," Rachael acknowledged, using her mind to communicate. "Please thank the Captain for making this side trip. I really appreciate it."
"No problem, Princess Rachel," the female voice happily responded. "You're one of our best Auxiliary Voyagers, and everybody agreed you deserved this treat."
Rachel quietly walked away from the crowd. As Rachel was about to go behind a building, Rachel looked back at Louise and Bethany.
"The two of you are going to have a wonderful life," Rachel happily thought to herself about Louise and Bethany. "We're all going to have a wonderful life."
Rachel then stepped behind the building and found herself to be alone. Rachel then reactivated her implant.
"This is Beckenbauer," Rachel communicated. "Beam me aboard."
In a few moments, Rachel disappeared in a flash of light.
Later, at Enchancia Castle
Frederick and Dorrie, and Everett and Candice, had arrived back at the castle. As everybody was getting ready for dinner, Dorrie and Candice had slipped away for a little bit to go to the Secret Library. As they entered the Secret Library, the First Story Keeper was waiting for them.
"Congratulations, ladies," the First Story Keeper smiled. "You have fine husbands."
"Thank you," Dorrie and Candice acknowledged, pleased.
"I've taken the liberty of programming the Tardis," the First Story Keeper announced. "In a few moments, it will travel to Ornburgh Castle where it will be waiting for you."
"Most kind, sir," Dorrie acknowledged.
"My pleasure," the First Story Keeper acknowledged. "I gave the two of you ownership of the Tardis, so it makes sense that it should be with you in Ornburgh."
"Thank you, sir," Candice acknowledged.
Dorrie, Candice, and the First Story Keeper walked into the room where the Tardis was housed. In a few moments, the Tardis disappeared into thin air on its way to Ornburgh.
"Until we meet again," the First Story Keeper said as he hugged Dorrie and Candice.
"Until we meet again," Dorrie and Candice said as they returned the hug.
"You've better be getting back to the ballroom," the First Story Keeper advised. "Everybody will be wanting to get started."
"Of course," Dorrie admitted as she and Candice waved their wands above their heads. In a few moments, Dorrie and Candice disappeared in a puff of smoke.
In the Enchancia Castle ballroom, the guests were talking to each other in small groups. Frederick and Everett were standing together when King Roland approached.
"Where are Dorrie and Candice?" Roland wanted to know, curious.
"They are getting ready for the dinner," Frederick answered.
"They will be here shortly," Everett added.
"Great!" Roland acknowledged, pleased.
Off to the side of the ballroom, Colette and Scarlett were standing together talking about Dorrie and Candice.
"Your Majes ..." Colette began but stopped as Scarlett held her hand up.
"Scarlett," the queen corrected with a smile. "Your their aunt and I'm their godmother. We're practically sisters at this point."
"Scarlett," Colette corrected herself. "How do you feel about them being Voyagers in addition to Protectors?"
"Actually, I don't have a problem with it," Scarlett answered. "When you think about it, them being Voyagers is just another kind of Protector position."
"You make a good point," Colette admitted.
At that point, Baileywick stepped out onto the ballroom floor.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Baileywick announced. "Princess Dorrie and Princess Candice."
Everybody clapped as Dorrie and Candice entered the ballroom. Dorrie then stood next to Frederick, and Candice stood next to Everett. Everybody was then seated and a fine dinner was served. After the dinner, it was time for the couples to leave for Ornburgh. As everybody was giving the couples their best wishes, Violet walked up.
"Safe journey, my precious ones," Violet smiled as she hugged Dorrie and Candice. "I wish you all the happiness in the world."
It was soon time for Frederick and Dorrie, and Everett and Candice, to board their flying carriage. As Dorrie and Candice stepped aboard the carriage, it was a bittersweet moment. They were happy to be starting new lives with Frederick and Everett. But, they were also a bit sad to be leaving a home they had known for years. A song then went through Dorrie and Candice's minds.
"It started out as a feeling, which then grew into a hope. Which then turned into a quiet thought, which then turned into a quiet word. And then that word grew louder and louder, 'til it was a battle cry. We'll come back, when you need us. No need to say goodbye."
"Just because everything's changing, doesn't mean it's never been this way before. All we can do is to know who our friends are, as we head out of the door."
"We'll pick a star on the dark horizon, and follow the light. We'll come back, when we're needed. No need to say goodbye. We'll come back, when we're needed. No need to say goodbye."
Dorrie and Candice sat down in the carriage where Frederick and Everett were waiting. Arnan, Dorrie's owl friend, flew up and landed in the seat next to Dorrie and Frederick. At that same moment, Candice's white cat, Creamy, parked himself at Candice's and Everett's feet. Meanwhile, the flying horses who would be pulling the flying carriage were Dorrie and Candice's flying horses, Chestnut and Holly.
In a few moments, the carriage took flight, as everybody threw rice at it. Soon, the carriage was on its way to Ornburgh. Dorrie and Frederick held hands, as did Candice and Everett. Arnan and Creamy smiled at the touching scene.
A day later
In Ornburgh Castle, Dorrie and Candice were walking down a hallway. The two had been told there was somebody who wanted to see them in the castle's sitting room. As Dorrie and Candice walked into the sitting room, they were met by a pleasant surprise - a woman with blond hair they knew from their past.
"Ma'am," Candice acknowledged as she curtsied.
"Lady Diana," Dorrie acknowledged as she also curtsied.
"None of that now," Diana smiled. "We're friends, and friends don't use titles. Look at the two of you. It seems like just yesterday the two of you were girls. And now you're grown women ... plus I hear you graduated at the top of the class at Voyager Academy."
At that moment, Frederick and Everett walked in.
"Frederick," Dorrie happily started, "this is a good friend of ours - Miss Juliet ..."
"There's no need to disguise your friend's true identity," Frederick smiled. "Everett and I both know who your friend really is."
"We're honored to have you visit our castle ... Diana, Princess of Wales," Everett acknowledged.
"Wait a minute," Candice said to Everett, taken off guard. "How could you know who Diana really is, unless ..."
"... unless Frederick and I were Voyagers ourselves," Everett revealed as he and Frederick each pulled out a silver pocket watch-sized Omni.
"Frederick and Everett have been Voyagers for about a year," Diana acknowledged. "The four of you are now specialty Voyagers assigned to this time period."
"This is wonderful," Dorrie happily said. "We truly have the best of everything."
"I can't think of anything better," Frederick smiled as he walked over and put his arm around Dorrie, and Everett walked over and put his arm around Candice. Diana smiled at the touching scene.
A castle maid brought in some tea, as Dorrie, Candice, Frederick, Everett, and Diana sat down. As soon as the maid left, the group resumed their conversation.
"I imagine you're here to give Candice and me pointers on how to be royalty?" Dorrie asked Diana.
"No," Diana answered with a smile. "The two of you know everything you need to know. This is simply a social call. I wanted to congratulate the two of you on your marriages."
"Thank you," Dorrie said, gratefully.
"Most kind," Candice happily acknowledged.
"I have news of interest," Diana started. "You remember Daisy Mason, don't you?"
"Oh, yes," Dorrie remembered.
"How is she doing?" Candice asked, curious.
"She's the new Captain of the Voyager Time Ship Greenwich," Diana announced.
"That's wonderful," Dorrie said, pleased, before turning to Frederick and Everett. "Since we're revealing secrets, Candice and I have something to reveal to you."
"It's time the two of you knew ... that we have a time and space ship at our command," Candice added.
"Where is this ... ship?" Everett wanted to know, curious.
"In the basement of this castle," Dorrie revealed.
"How could you possibly fit a ship in the basement?" Frederick asked, taken off guard.
"It's an amazing piece of alien technology, capable of changing its size and appearance when needed," Diana pointed out to Frederick and Everett.
"If you'll follow us, we'll show you," Dorrie suggested.
Frederick, Everett, and Diana followed Dorrie and Candice to the basement. Once in the basement, Dorrie and Candice led Frederick, Everett, and Diana to a tall tan metal box. Dorrie and Candice opened the doors of the box and motioned Frederick, Everett, and Diana to enter.
"We can't all fit in there," Frederick pointed out.
"Nothing is as it appears," Dorrie said in a reassuring voice.
The five entered the box. Frederick and Everett were shocked to discover that the box was bigger on the inside than on the outside.
"This is incredible," Frederick said in awe.
"Absolutely incredible," Everett added, also in awe.
"It's called the Tardis," Candice began. "It can travel anywhere in time and space."
"And it's ours," Dorrie added.
"Impressed?" Diana asked Frederick and Everett with a smile.
"Impressed doesn't begin to cover it," Frederick admitted.
Frederick and Everett listened with interest as Dorrie and Candice explained everything about the Tardis. Meanwhile, back in Enchancia at the orphanage in Dunwiddie, Mrs. Tweedle summoned Bethany and Louise into her office.
"If the two of you will each have a seat, I have some news for you," Mrs. Tweedle announced.
Bethany and Louise each sat down as Mrs. Tweedle sat behind her desk.
"What news do you have, Mrs. Tweedle?" Bethany asked, nervous.
"It's good news, I assure you," Mrs. Tweedle started. "I've had a request from Enchancia Castle for two girls who would make good maid trainees who would live at the castle. I immediately thought of the two of you. You're good workers, and I think you'd be perfect for this opportunity."
"I don't know what to say," Bethany admitted, taken off guard. "Louise and I never dreamed we'd be offered such an opportunity."
"And a fine opportunity it is," Mrs. Tweedle smiled. "Both of you will find it a good life, and you'll be together. And it will provide you with training that will take you far."
"Thank you, Mrs. Tweedle," Bethany acknowledged, grateful.
"Yes, thank you," Louise added, equally grateful.
"When will Louise and I be going to Enchancia Castle?" Bethany asked.
"Tomorrow," Mrs. Tweedle answered. "A carriage will come here to pick you up."
(End of Chapter 23).
Behind the scenes
In this installment of "Behind the scenes", we look at the Kingdom of Ornburgh (an idea suggested by Brigade701).
Ornburgh is a kingdom located in the Ever Realm which is home to Prince Frederick and his family. The Ornburgh royal family is currently made up of King Jonathan, Queen Mira, Prince Frederick, Prince Everett, Princess Lissa, and now Princess Dorrie and Princess Candice.
Ornburgh has German influences. Among German based holidays in Ornburgh is Oktoberfest, a two-week event with traditional Ornburgh food, beer drinking, and a fair that includes games and rides.
The people of Ornburgh are interested in sports, which include cross-country running, swimming, gymnastics, ice hockey, tennis, and skiing.
Ornburgh is a rich kingdom with huge economic success. Industries in Ornburgh include cotton, agriculture, iron, and steel. Ornburgh is also a very welcoming kingdom that is open to many faiths. This has caused a number of people from other kingdoms to move to Ornburgh who are looking to start new lives in a rich economic environment.
Author's notes
Ariana is a character created by Jake H Voronkov, and is used in my stories with permission from Jake H Voronkov.
Arnan is the same owl who appeared in the "Sofia the First" episode "Holiday in Enchancia".
Bringing Queen Elizabeth II into this story as a Voyager was the idea of Mark T.
Creamy is an original character created by jolly roger brat and is used in my stories with the permission of jolly roger brat.
Daisy Mason is an older version of Daisy who appeared in "Downton Abbey" and is now a Voyager.
Dame Skyla and High Hope Dance Academy are originally from "Sky Dancers", but have been adapted for use in the "Sofia the First" universe. Having Sofia attend High Hope Dance Academy was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.
Doc and her father are based on the same characters from "Doc McStuffins" but adapted for the "Sofia the First" universe. Having characters from "Doc McStuffins" appear in "Ever Realm Chronicles" was the idea of MisuteriTenshi / SailorWednesdayMercury.
Floo Network is from "Harry Potter".
For more about Lady Diana being a Voyager, see Chapter 49 of my story "Dorrie".
Fritz and Eileen are original characters created by Brigade701 and are used in my stories with the permission of Brigade701.
Having Bethany and Louise watch the carriage with Frederick, Dorrie, Everett, and Candice pass by was the idea of CarlaSwenKnight108. Having Bethany and Louise remarking that Dorrie and Candice were beautiful was also the idea of CarlaSwenKnight108.
Having Chestnut and Holly pulling the flying carriage was the idea of jolly roger brat.
Having Fritz and Eileen sing after the wedding was the idea of Brigade701.
Having Merlin be the headmaster of the Wendarby Institute was the idea of Brigade701.
Having Wormwood visit Dorrie and Candice and give them each a rose was the idea of CarlaSwenKnight108. Meanwhile, the reference to Dorrie letting Wormwood go, and the reference to Wormwood now living with a witch, are from Chapter 4 of my story "The Newest Princess".
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".
"It's called the Tardis," Candice began. "It can travel anywhere in time and space." "And it's ours," Dorrie added - this is based on how the Matt Smith Doctor described his Tardis in the "Doctor Who" Christmas special "The Snowmen".
King Erik Fitzherbert of the Kingdom of Corona is an original character created by Skyrimfan for the "Sofia the First"/"Hansel and Gretel" crossover stories "Lucinda the First" and "Rise to Power: Queen of Corona". Skyrimfan has given me permission to use King Erik in my stories.
Lydia is from GradGirl2010's stories "My Sister's Keeper", "My Sister's Teacher", and "My Sister's Acceptance", and is 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), and is also the royal sorceress of Lacorinth.
Omni, and Voyager, are from the "Voyagers!" TV series.
Princess Dianna of Yensid is a character created by dbug27 and is used in my stories with permission from dbug27. Princess Dianna is 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".
Queen Mira Beckenbauer of Ornburgh, and Mira, Royal Detective (from "Mira, Royal Detective"), are two different characters who are not related in any way, shape, or form.
Queen 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).
Simon (the Royal Constable of Cinnibar) is an original character created by Jake H Voronkov for my stories.
Tardis is from "Doctor Who".
The conversation between Colette and Scarlett was the idea of Jake H Voronkov (who also provided most of the dialog for the scene).
The Hogsmeade Medical College is from Chapters 1, 2, 12, 15, 17, and 19 of "Ever Realm Chronicles" and is something I created for "Ever Realm Chronicles". The Village of Hogsmeade itself is from "Harry Potter".
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 Corona is from "Tangled", and also from "Tangled: The Series" (also known as "Rapunzel's Tangled Adventure").
The Kingdom of Lacorinth is a kingdom I created for Queen Lydia in my stories.
The Kingdom of Ornburgh is where Prince Frederick and his family live. The kingdom was never given a name in "Sofia the First", so I named it Ornburgh.
The Kingdom of Yensid is a kingdom created by dbug27 and is used in my stories with permission from dbug27.
The Ruth Doctor is 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).
VTS: Voyager Time Ship. There are a few time ships used by Voyager Command, including the VTS Greenwich and the VTS Hyperion.
Disclaimer
"Bayonetta" and everything associated with it © PlatinumGames, Sega, and Nintendo.
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).
"Digimon: Digital Monsters" and everything associated with it © Akiyoshi Hongo, Bandai, and Toei Animation.
"Doc McStuffins" and everything associated with it © Brown Bag Films, and Disney.
"Doctor Who" and everything associated with it © BBC.
"Downton Abbey" and everything associated with it © ITV, Carnival Films, WGBH Boston, and PBS.
"Elena of Avalor" and everything associated with it © Craig Gerber, Disney Television Animation, Team TO, and Disney-ABC Domestic Television.
Fritz, Eileen, and the other original ideas from Brigade701 are the property of Brigade701 and are used in my stories with the permission of Brigade701.
"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.
King Erik Fitzherbert of the Kingdom of Corona, and everything associated with him, are the property of Skyrimfan and are used in my stories with the permission of Skyrimfan.
Lydia is the property of GradGirl2010 and is used in my stories with the permission of GradGirl2010.
"Mira, Royal Detective" and everything associated with it © Wild Canary Animation, Technicolor Animation Productions, and Disney-ABC Domestic Television.
Princess Dianna of Yensid and the other original ideas from dbug27 are the property of dbug27 and are used in my stories with the permission of dbug27.
"Rapunzel's Tangled Adventure" and everything associated with it © Disney.
"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.
"Tangled" and everything associated with it © Disney.
"Tangled: The Series" and everything associated with it © Disney.
"The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian" and everything associated with it © Walt Disney Pictures, Walden Media, Mark Johnson Productions, and Silverbell Films.
"The Greatest Showman" and everything associated with it © Chernin Entertainment, Seed Productions, Laurence Mark Productions, TSG Entertainment, and 20th Century Fox.
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.
I only own Abby Cosmarune-Murphy, Amara Cruvis, Bethany Richards, Candice Cosmarune-Beckenbauer, Chesnut, Department Six, Dorrie Cosmarune-Beckenbauer, Emily, Holly, King Graham, King Jonathan Beckenbauer, Lacesario Enhance, Louise Richards, Mrs. Tweedle, Prince Everett Beckenbauer, Princess Lissa Beckenbauer, Princess Rachel Beckenbauer, Queen Mira Beckenbauer, Reverend Williams, the Village of Wendarby, the Wendarby Institute, Transformation Manipulator, VTS Greenwich, and VTS Hyperion.
