Kingdom of Florida, Volume II: Books 5 - 7 in the Kingdom of Florida Series

By Taylor Thomas Smythe

Return to the enchanted world of Kingdom of Florida, an award-winning, middle-grade Florida-fantasy series in the spirit of timeless classic adventure stories like The Chronicles of Narnia,

• Language: English
• Publisher: Taylor Thomas Smythe
• Release date: Nov 9, 2021
• ISBN: 9781087908373

Book preview

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© ٢٠٢١ Taylor Thomas Smythe.

All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means—electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, scanning, or other—except for brief quotations in critical reviews or articles, without the prior written permission of the author.

Cover design by Taylor Thomas Smythe

Interior illustrations by Alice Waller, Samantha Pollack, and Taylor Thomas Smythe

Independently published.

ISBN: 978-1-087-90837-3

Taylor Thomas Smythe / TTS

West Palm Beach, FL

www.kingdomofflorida.com

www.ttsmythe.com

VOLUME II

Stories from the Kingdom of Florida:

I. The Golden Alligator

II. The Lamplight Society

III. The Place Beyond the Sea

IV. The Fountain of Youth

V. The Curse of Coronado

VI. Coral and the Treasure Hunters

VII. Guardians of the Willow

Visit KingdomOfFlorida.com for more!

Table of Contents

Book 5: The Curse of Coronado  7

Book 6: Coral and the Treasure Hunters  231

Book 7: Guardians of the Willow  463

Kingdom of Florida

The Curse of Coronado

Written by

Taylor Thomas Smythe

Illustrated by

Alice Waller

Chapter One

Return to Azalea Drive

It was the hottest summer that Ellie could remember. And this wasn’t just any hot; it was Florida hot—the kind where you’re sweating before you even walk outside your front door. Unfortunately, as the ten-year-old little girl drifted out of a good night’s slumber (ten-and-a-half, she’d likely declare), the freckles over her forehead were already mapped in beads of glistening moisture as the air conditioner worked double-time. Fingers of motionless sunlight stippled across Ellie’s eyes and she blinked to survey the underside of her older brother’s upper-bunk mattress.

After a few seconds to orient herself to the waking world and gather a morsel of energy, Ellie kicked at the bed slats above her, jostling her sleeping brother. He didn’t stir or make any noise.

Ben! Ellie shouted louder than anyone should that early in the morning. Ben! Wake up! Her little feet kicked the mattress again.

Ben emitted a tired groan and turned over.

Wake up, Ben! Today’s the day!

Muffled by a pillow, the boy sluggishly replied: "The day for what, Ellie?"

The day we’ve been waiting for, she said excitedly. This time she alternated her feet for a more rhythmic kick.

Gah! Go back to bed! Ben voiced his annoyance and tossed once more.

Ellie, not one to be dissuaded, contemplated alternate tactics then rolled to the edge of her bed and stood up.

"She’s coming, too." Ellie’s little voice was louder this time, startling Ben as he flipped to see his sister’s head hovering at the side of the covers. The freckled girl fluttered her eyelashes rapidly a few times, mimicking the powder-cheeked actresses she’d seen in motion pictures.

Ben rolled his eyes and reluctantly flung off his covers. Realizing her strategy had worked, Ellie jumped down to the floor and began to assemble an outfit for the day.

When they both finished getting ready, Ben met Ellie near the front door.

Don’t forget the packages, the girl reminded her brother.

Got ‘em, Ben replied, holding up two small boxes wrapped in brown paper and knots of twine, which he promptly placed into a backpack.

Satisfied, Ellie opened the door, succumbing to the humid wave of morning heat. Let’s hurry, she said. I don’t know how much of this I can take.

Just a quick stop at Annie’s and then we’ll be on our way, said Ben as they picked up their bicycles from the driveway and headed down the sidewalk.

Ellie looked over her shoulder at a one-story house a few lots from their own. It was a home where they’d spent much of their time as children. I miss Oliver, said the little girl softly as they continued walking next to their bikes and left the small house behind them. How long’s it been again?

More than a year, replied her brother. Thankfully we won’t have to wait much longer until we see him! It is his birthday party, after all.

But it’s a surprise, remember? I do hope Oliver can make it.

The siblings approached another house—freshly painted a dusty blue—where Ben eagerly rapped on the front door. A few seconds later, the door opened. In the threshold stood a large man dressed in a dark blue police uniform. His stocky figure nearly filled the entire space.

Can I help you? The large policeman said casually.

Um, yes, said Ben, taking a large gulp and then a step back. Uh, is Annie home?

Depends, the man replied. Who’s asking? To Ben, it looked like the man was frowning, but he couldn’t be sure.

B-Ben, the boy stammered out. And Ellie—we’re friends from down the street. We had plans today.

Wait here. The policeman closed the door slightly and sauntered down the hall. Ben wrung his hands nervously for what seemed like several minutes before the man returned. Be safe out there, said the man’s voice to someone outside of the children’s line of vision.

Ben craned his neck to see around the door, but it suddenly opened all the way once more, revealing a smiling dark-haired girl. Annie! He exclaimed.

Friends! Annie replied, shutting the door behind her as she embraced the siblings. She held a small wrapped box in one of her hands. Are you ready to go?

Ben smiled and nodded with gladness to see their neighbor—he was quite fond of the girl. Annie handed the box to Ben to place into his backpack then grabbed her own bike, mounting it quickly.

Follow me! Ellie said as the trio took off down the tree-lined street.

The three children safely crossed a few busy roads before entering the quiet, hilly neighborhood known as Flamingo Park. The little explorers wheeled through this historic area on a number of occasions, usually with the intent to visit a specific, dilapidated house on Azalea Drive; this journey was no different.

As the friends came to a halt in front of the overgrown yard, they surveyed the crumbling building. It was a two-story home built in the neighborhood’s signature style—covered in textured stucco, climbing vines, and pieces of scrappy, rotten plywood. This particular street had the good fortune of being situated far from the expanding highways, airports, and downtown centers where nearly a thousand houses of similar historic character had been demolished within the past few years. The house on Azalea Drive was spared and, at least for the moment, it remained one of the few places where the children could pass between their world and a magical place known as the Kingdom.

It looks worse than ever, Ben stated as he inspected the abandoned home.

"Good thing it’s what’s inside that counts," Annie said, flashing a smile at the boy.

The children hid their bikes behind a patch of thorny bushes and approached the front door. Ellie reached for the handle and discovered that it was unlocked. Opening the door wide, Ellie led the others into the dark and musty entryway. Annie flicked on a flashlight and Ben closed the door behind them. They slowly made their way up a creaking staircase, taking care not to set their feet on a gaping hole in one of the steps.

The Gate’s just up there—at the top of the stairs, instructed Ben, referring to the enchanted portal they’d utilized on more than one occasion.

I remember it from when we returned last summer, replied Annie. Let’s hope it still functions.

Eventually, the three friends reached the peak of the stairway and Annie shone the flashlight down the hall toward a closed bedroom door. Ellie nodded and moved toward it, swatting a thin cobweb. As their feet moved across the floorboards, the children heard the faint sound of shimmering—like hundreds of tiny bells ringing, sparkling into a crescendo as they reached the mysterious door.

Ellie turned the crystal doorknob and cracked open the old paneled door. A sliver of sparkling light spilled into the hallway, blinding the children momentarily. Enveloped in light, the three friends proceeded through the glowing threshold as the shimmering grew to a near-deafening volume. Ben, at the end of the pack, closed the door behind them as they left the old house behind.

The ringing faded and the children looked around. Instead of a dank upstairs bedroom in an aging house, the friends now found themselves inside an expansive, naturally-lit chamber lined with ornate columns, tall windows, and pots of blossoming tropical flower bushes trimmed with care.

We’re back, said Ellie with a smile. Back in the Kingdom!

Suddenly, there was a knock at the door of the chamber. The three whipped around, startled.

Hello? Ellie asked. Who’s there?

Chapter Two

Long-Awaited Reunions

The door to the chamber swung open, revealing the face of a tall, bearded man—one that was familiar to all three of the children.

Marco! Ellie ran and nearly leaped into the man’s arms.

Little Ellie, the man chuckled, embracing the girl. You’ve certainly grown since the last time I saw you—all of you have. When Ellie had released him from her grip, Marco gave Annie and Ben each a hug in turn.

You’re looking quite refined yourself, Marco, Ben commented. The man’s long dark hair was combed back and his beard was neatly trimmed—quite a change from the hooded and unkempt wanderer they’d met the previous summer.

A year as the steward of Coronado’s throne can change a person, he said with a smile. But I won’t bore you with matters of governance; I’m sure you’re eager to see more of your old friends. Follow me.

Marco ushered the children out of the room and into an expansive, arched corridor lined with lamps. The whole space seemed draped in a rosy hue as the morning light crept through the colonnade.

How is the Prince? Ben asked, recalling their previous adventure in the Kingdom. "I mean Florian—baby Florian." Through a strange and magical course of events involving the legendary Fountain of Youth, the evil Prince Florian had been transformed from a full-grown man into a small and helpless babe.

Oh, he’s doing alright, replied Marco. Mostly he just cries and sleeps. He’s down for a rest at the moment, but I’m sure he’ll be happy to see you all later at the banquet.

Annie was pensive and furrowed her brow as they continued walking. Do you think—I mean, do you ever wonder—if he will, you know— She didn’t finish her thought out loud, but Marco began to nod.

Yes, of course. He knew what she was getting at. "Every day I wonder if the same evil monster is somewhere inside that gurgling and helpless little infant. I wonder if those attributes are an innate part of him or if they’re things that can be changed—that I can change. Marco drifted into a thought then returned his gaze to the three children. Only time can tell."

It’s all quite fascinating to me, said Ben. "Just think about it: We’ve grown older since we entered the Kingdom over a year ago, but Florian is younger than he was then—I still can’t wrap my mind around it fully."

Neither can I, Marco chuckled at the boy’s musings. Florian and I were your age once, long ago, growing up in these halls. I remember it vividly, but how far away that seems now. Quite strange.

Is Oliver here yet? Ellie chimed in as they reached a set of large doors.

Marco swung them open and motioned for the children to proceed. Not yet, he said. But there’s someone else who’s been waiting to see you.

The children peered around the edge of the door and entered the next chamber, where a gray-haired woman sat in a chair petting a small green pet. She turned as she heard the footsteps pattering across the shiny floor and the creature leaped to the ground, scurrying behind the chair.

Children! The woman rose and extended a warm smile.

Lady Juniper! The three children exclaimed in unison. Ellie was the first to reach the old woman’s comforting embrace.

Oh, I’m very glad to see each of you, said the woman as she pulled them into her bosom one-by-one. You’ve all sprouted quite a bit since the last time I laid eyes on you. Juniper softly pinched Ben’s chin and, through squinted eyes, added, So handsome, Benjamin.

The boy blushed while Annie masked a playful laugh behind her hands. Ellie knelt and began to walk across the rug on her hands and knees until she rounded the other side of the chair.

Come out, come out, wherever you are, the girl said in a sing-songy tone. The small greenish reptile poked his head out from behind the upholstery and panted with his tongue drooping out the side of his mouth. Ellie chuckled and pulled the creature in for a squeeze: Oh, Kiwi!

Kiwi squealed in delight and flipped on his back to permit Ellie to rub his belly.

Playful as ever, Lady Juniper noted. Kiwi and I have missed you three—and dear Oliver. We’ve been busy.

Busy with what? Annie wondered aloud.

Rebuilding, Juniper began. Ellie and Benjamin—you recall the quaint little village along the river where I served as a leader?

The siblings nodded.

Didn’t Florian burn it to the ground? Ben remembered Marco’s retelling of what had happened. Because you helped us?

That’s right, the lady replied. But we’ve since found a new plot of land further up the river. You wouldn’t believe the work that my people have done in a year’s time; what they’ve created is truly remarkable. It’s unfortunate that our reunion will be so brief, however, as I must return there first thing tomorrow morning to continue our work.

Before the children could say anything further to their old friend, a uniformed attendant entered the room and quickly whispered a message in Marco’s ear. As the attendant disappeared once more, Marco relayed the message to the visitors: He has arrived! He’s waiting for us in the royal audience chamber.

Ellie turned from Kiwi’s antics and rose to join the others. Who has arrived? She asked.

Marco motioned once more toward the door of the chamber: His Majesty—the kind and generous King Oliver of Mangonia.

Chapter Three

King Oliver of Mangonia

Marco routed the three children through a maze of spacious corridors with Lady Juniper hobbling slowly behind. Kiwi’s tiny barks bounced off the arched ceilings, which were covered in ornate frescoes depicting cloudy skyscapes. Annie—who had not spent nearly as much time in the palace as the others—craned her neck to marvel at the artistry and its illusory effect.

Presently, the group reached a large and imposing set of doors that stretched up to the ceiling. Carved of a rich and storied wood, the panels featured gilded depictions of palms and monstera leaves. A pair of guards stood attentive at either side of the entryway with kind expressions gracing their stoic faces, which—Ben noted to himself—were quite different from the more somber attitudes present during Prince Florian’s regime.

Approaching the massive doors, Marco made a motion to the two guards. This prompted them to lower their weapons and pull on the polished ring-shaped handles. The double-doors swung open slowly with a

KING OLIVER OF MANGONIA

deep, groaning creak!

A natural, brilliant glow emanated through the widening gap between the doors, causing the children to squint as their eyes adjusted to the dazzling aura of the space; this was the royal throne room of Coronado. Marco stepped out of Ellie’s way when the doors were fully open, allowing her an unobstructed view into the magnificent chamber. Soft morning light cascaded in from a set of floor-to-ceiling, grid-framed windows along the back wall, silhouetting a raised platform near the center of the room upon which sat an oversized golden rattan chair.

As if on cue, corresponding pairs of brawny manservants lifted large palm frond fans in succession, revealing a space that perfectly-framed the young bespectacled ruler perched upon the bamboo throne; a crown covered his thick, black hair.

Oliver! Ellie shouted as soon as she caught a glimpse of the boy. Before he could respond, the girl moved quickly across the polished floor, leaped up onto the dais, and tumbled into his outstretched arms.

Ellie! Oliver responded as the girl squeezed him tightly. Then, looking up to see the others approaching, he added, Friends! My advisors didn’t tell me that you’d all be here, too. What a wonderful surprise!

"Well, it is your twelfth birthday, Oliver, said Ben as he reached the platform. We couldn’t miss it!"

And besides, Annie added as she took her turn to embrace the young king before making space for the older companions to greet the boy, we haven’t seen you in over a year—not since you became King of Mangonia.

Juniper stepped in to offer her greetings to Oliver, flashing a squinty smile through her gracefully wrinkled countenance: "He’s always been King of Mangonia; it runs in the family, remember? The crown just made it official." Kiwi popped out from behind her skirt and began to lick at Oliver’s ankles. The boy bent low to scratch the little green creature’s forehead. Oliver’s attention seemed to drift.

When he raised his head once more, Marco stood before him: You are surely King. The bearded man took a knee to show his respect, then muttered in a softer tone, But that is not your throne, your Majesty.

Oliver sat down once more in the seat and squirmed a bit. I know, he replied. But someone’s got to keep it warm. Of course, I’m sure you’re doing a fine job of that, dear Marco.

Alas, Marco shook his head, I am not worthy to sit upon the throne of Coronado—only one of his heirs may carry that honor.

Ellie chimed in: But his only heirs are just babies—Florian and little Aria. Juniper, didn’t you say that the law states an heir cannot be crowned ruler until they’re ten years old?

That’s correct, Juniper nodded. Which is why we are lucky to have Marco serving as the steward of the southeast region in the meantime. Oliver—and Queen Jasmine of Palafox—have their own subjects to attend to and cannot be present in two places at once.

It’s not a permanent solution, added Marco. But I am happy to be of service in the meantime—until an heir may step in and complete the Triumvirate, that is.

Then, noticing that Oliver had grown quiet, Lady Juniper inquired, Are you alright, child?

Oliver, still watching Kiwi’s antics, replied softly, I wish they were here—my family.

His friends became somber as well and Annie placed a hand on his shoulder: Any word on your grandmother Coral?

Nothing, Oliver shook his head. Ever since I discovered that she’s still alive, I’ve spent the past year searching and wondering what’s become of her—but to no avail. My one desire is to see my grandpa Jesse reunited with her: his one true love.

"There’s got to be someone who knows where she is, Ben said confidently. Someone who knows what happened to her."

There are two people that I know of, replied Oliver, glancing to Marco. "But Florian’s become an infant and can’t yet speak—again, that is. Anyhow, who knows if his memories are still intact?"

Who is the other? Ellie asked.

Her name is Malverne, Lady Juniper uttered quietly, as if the very name carried with it a foreboding darkness. She flashed a quick glance at Marco, then bent to pick up Kiwi from the floor. She is a dangerous and evil witch whose powers are far greater than mine. No doubt she’s made her home in some dark and forgotten corner of this Kingdom, as so many vile creatures do.

The children were silent and seemed frightened by the old woman’s words. Then, noticing the time, Marco spoke up once more: While it certainly is a pleasure to carry on conversation, might I suggest we move to the grounds? The day grows late and I believe there are more familiar faces that would be happy to be reunited with you, dear children, as we prepare for a garden banquet in his Majesty’s honor.

Ellie clapped her hands in delight at the thought of meeting more of their old friends, and the others felt a similar sentiment. As there was no opposition to Marco’s suggestion, he turned and led them toward the palace grounds.

Chapter Four

The Garden Banquet

Oliver remained silent as they walked, but the other three children eagerly followed as Marco guided the guests out of the voluminous throne room and down a few more winding corridors until they reached a set of french doors overlooking the palace grounds. A kindly attendant opened the doors as the group approached. Ben handed another attendant the packages from his backpack while the rest of the children gazed in awe at the immaculately-tended garden. Here Marco and Lady Juniper parted ways with the children to tend to other preparations, leaving the young friends to wander the vast, tropical terraces.

Magnificent topiaries lined a number of winding coral-carved pathways that stretched several acres long. Trickling fountains generated a peaceful ambiance, and Oliver spotted a school of shimmering, red-orange koi fish circling in an adjacent pond. Ellie pointed out a flock of wild flamingos grazing upon a patch of aquatic plants after which her gaze turned to a glass pavilion at the far end of the garden.

That’s where all the birds sleep, Ellie said to her brother, recalling a previous rescue-mission that had brought her into the translucent aviary. It’s where that evil raven kept the skeleton key that we used to rescue Oliver last time we were here.

"But she wasn’t actually a raven, was she?" Ben asked.

Not exactly, affirmed Ellie. She was a frightening witch with the power to transform into other creatures—and even into other people.

Really? Annie was now intrigued by her friend’s story. She had not been present for the daring escape and thus heard only bits and pieces after the fact.

Yes, really, Oliver now chimed in. She’s the one we told you about inside—Malverne. The witch once took the shape of the little boy called the Mouthpiece—a child with curious abilities. He was trying to help us, of course, and she would do anything to stop us. Here the boy king paused and looked around. Wait a minute—I wonder where he is? Marco didn’t mention—

Before he could get the words out, Oliver felt a tap on his shoulder. He turned quickly to find a small, thin boy of about ten years of age smiling back at him. At first, Oliver didn’t recognize the child, whose thin, dark hair now hung down to his chin. He was arrayed in a loose-fitting tunic of a simple, pink linen with sandals upon his feet.

Hello, Oliver, said the boy meekly. Hello, children.

When they heard him speak, the children all at once recognized him as the Mouthpiece—a title given to him for his role as speaker for the eerie, speechless Seers who once served as Prince Florian’s counsel.

Oh, it’s so good to see you! Ellie said as she wrapped her arms around the frail boy. I must say, you look quite different than the last time we saw you. Your hair has grown out quickly as well, I might add.

The boy nodded as he embraced the other children in turn: Marco takes good care. Not like the Prince.

I’m sure, replied Oliver. I knew that Marco would make a good caretaker and it brings me joy to see that the color and life has returned to you.

It was truly horrible what they did to you, Ellie spoke in a tone of genuine concern. Keeping you locked away in that closet, abusing your powers for their own purposes—and they never even bothered to give you a proper name! Everyone’s got to have a name, you know.

No name, said the Mouthpiece solemnly.

Well, we will just have to find you one, said Ellie with her chin raised confidently. The boy smiled bashfully and lowered his head.

Oliver, Ben said, shifting the group’s focus back to the garden party. I think there are a few other familiar faces that we’ve yet to see. Come on!

The four children said goodbye to the Mouthpiece, who scurried off to help with preparations, and the group continued on down the garden path. As they rounded the corner of a large hedge, they came upon a trio of familiar faces. The first was Lady Juniper, who tapped the shoulders of the others to signal them of the children’s arrival.

The first of the two guests who turned toward the children was an old man with a long beard and a salty demeanor. He waved at the youngsters with his left hand, which was missing one of its fingers.

Henry! The children cheered in unison as they hurried across the stone pathway to greet the old ferry-captain.

Dear children, replied Henry with a glint in his eyes. It warms my heart to see you back here.

The second guest was a woman with a tangle of paint-splattered hair and an unconventionally-designed gown in a striking tropical pattern. Oliver, Ben, and Ellie recognized the eclectic woman at once as Bevelle Baron—a skilled artist from the nearby village.

Bevelle! The three embraced the woman all at once.

As Annie had not been present to meet Bevelle upon their first adventure, the other children gave the two a proper introduction while they caught up with the old friends and swapped stories from the past year.

While they were conversing and laughing, a woman’s voice spoke from behind the children: I hope I’m not intruding, but can anyone tell me the way to Azalea Drive? She smiled as the children turned and recognized her by the dark, wavy locks that hung long at her shoulders. A modest golden crown rested on her head.

Oh, Jasmine! Ellie exclaimed. "I mean—Queen Jasmine. I hope you’ll forgive me—it may take some time for me to learn to call you and Oliver by your proper titles."

Jasmine chuckled lightheartedly as she greeted the children one-by-one, ending with the little girl. You’re forgiven, Ellie. And, might I say, you seem to have grown a touch taller in the time that has passed. The woman stood gracefully, wearing the garb that was typical of her royal forebears of the western region; jewelry of stone and feather accented a golden linen dress that adorned her tallish figure.

Just then, another woman’s voice echoed from across the garden: Children!

They looked to identify the voice, which came from a young lady not more than a couple decades old. Her hair was long and blonde, while she carried a bundle of rosy blankets in her arms as she scurried toward them.

Juliana, said Annie excitedly. It’s so good to see you again.

The woman beamed at the children and shuffled the blankets to reveal the round face of a smiling baby girl: Aria is happy to see you, as well. The girl was the only child of Juliana and Gardenio—Prince Florian’s youngest brother who perished in the events at the enchanted Fountain of Youth.

Aria has every right to be happy, Oliver quipped. She could be Queen of this region in just a few short years.

If Florian doesn’t get to it first, the mother corrected.

When the time comes, said Oliver, perhaps we’ll let the people decide.

It was about this time that a palace attendant rang a small bell that resounded throughout the garden, signaling for the hundreds of guests to move to their seats for dinner. In one area of the grounds, three long tables had been set, each stretching over a hundred feet and surrounded by painted wooden chairs.

Oliver was ushered to a seat at the head of one table while his friends were gathered nearby a few seats away. The boy looked to the places of honor at the other tables; Marco took the seat at one while Queen Jasmine perched comfortably in a chair of her own.

When all of the guests were seated, the grounds became silent as a man stood up on a platform. The man, who wore a fancy collar and sported a curly mustache, was known as the Master of Ceremonies. He gave some opening remarks and rang a bell to signal the start of the banquet. A perfectly-synchronized row of servants issued through a humble door at the base of the palace and situated platters of all sorts of food in the center of each table. All at once, the garden was filled with the sounds of more laughter and silverware clinking as the guests sampled scoops of every delicacy onto their own plates. Conversations became even livelier and the servants produced a steady stream of food and drink from the kitchen.

You know who I haven’t seen yet? Ben asked quietly as he chewed a mouthful of savory meat.

Who? Annie wondered.

Lady Penelope, replied the boy. She was supposed to be here—along with little Toro.

The children glanced around, realizing that they had not seen the woman as they had made conversation with the guests throughout the garden.

Perhaps she’s just running late, offered Ellie from the other side of the table.

It’s not like her to be late, Ben replied. Then, glancing up at the darkening sky, added, I hope they get here soon. A storm is coming and it’ll be dark soon.

Don’t worry so much, Ben, Ellie said. The Kingdom’s a much safer place since Prince Florian was dethroned. They’ll be alright!

The three looked around again as they finished their meals. Their plates were removed and replaced with smaller ones, on which sat sweet and tangy desserts. The children devoured these in an instant and turned their attention to the Master of Ceremonies as he took the stage once more.

And now, spoke the man, it is time for our dear guest of honor, King Oliver of Mangonia, to open his gifts. He gestured toward a towering stack of boxes under a covered portico; they were wrapped in the finest papers and bows and ranged in size and shape.

As the guests clapped, Oliver smiled and stood. He began the long walk toward the pile, his robes trailing behind him, when suddenly there was a flash of lightning and a loud crack! The sound of thunder split the air and the guests gasped. Within seconds, a faint pitter-patter could be heard sweeping its way across the garden and toward the palace until a full-on deluge drenched the entire party.

Chapter Five

The Mysterious Package

Amidst the frantic screams and commotion, the Master of Ceremonies tried desperately to communicate to the guests that the gift-opening would not be canceled but merely relocated indoors. Despite his best efforts to keep them present, many members of the crowd decided to call for their horses and carriages to return to their homes in the storm. Marco was summoned to the stable to sort out a matter between two guests whose identical white horses had accidentally been swapped and were now the source of an escalating conflict. Apart from that, however, the once-bustling party became a rather intimate gathering confined to a cozy corner of the palace.

Less than a dozen guests filed into the chamber. The room had high ceilings with thick cedar rafters and a massive fireplace, which provided warmth to the children who were now soaked. In what seemed like a magical dance, a flurry of palace servants transported the tower of gifts into the room and produced a stack of fresh towels with which the remaining guests began to dry themselves. A few more muted bursts of thunder and lightning intermingled with the drizzling of rain on the milky glass windows.

Well, said Ellie, scanning the room. It looks as if everyone’s gone but us!

Not everyone, came a woman’s voice from just outside the large doors. We’ve only just arrived! The sound of clacking heels on the stone hallway preceded her, and soon the tall woman was visible in the threshold. She removed a rain poncho, revealing red hair tied back into a tight, moist bun.

Lady Juniper stood closest to the door and was the first to recognize the woman: Penny?

Juniper, she replied curtly. Then, before greeting any of the others, she turned back and called into the torchlit hall. Come along, dear. You’re sopping wet!

A small boy—nearly Ellie’s age and size—dragged himself through the door like a wet rat, carrying damp shoes in his hands. His hair was short and dark with a patch of freckles dotting his face.

Why, it’s little Toro, said Ellie with delight. She grabbed a pair of soft towels and ran to the newly-arrived guests. Here! You’ll catch a chill—or so I’ve heard.

The rather serious woman—also known as Lady Penelope—cracked a soft smile and finally greeted each of the children. Others made introductions as necessary until all were finally acquainted and satisfied. Toro occupied himself near the fireplace, watching the flames dance and writhe in endless combinations.

"Please don’t delay your gift-opening any longer on our account, your Majesty, said Lady Penelope to Oliver. Happy birthday, by the way." She handed him a wrapped box, which he promptly began to open.

Oliver withdrew a tiny wooden toy in the shape of a ship, which he turned over in his hands to inspect with interest. Details were painted on with the finest brush.

Handcrafted in Melba, Penelope narrated. I figured it might remind you of the little port town where I reside and offer counsel—where we first met.

Thank you, Lady Penelope, replied Oliver. Then he turned toward the tower of gifts which rose to an overwhelming height. Perhaps I’ll save some of these for later? For now, I’ll open the gifts from those of you who are still here.

A few of the palace attendants shuffled through boxes to quickly sort out the relevant parcels, which they set next to Oliver’s armchair. The young king picked up the first one—an irregularly-shaped gift—and read the tag: This one’s from Bevelle Baron. He smiled at the artist and began to remove the custom-painted wrapping paper. Inside was a small sculpture of an alligator. As Oliver lifted it so his guests could see, it caught the glow of the firelight and began to shimmer; the alligator had green emeralds for eyes and its body was covered in gold!

Look familiar? Bevelle asked from across the room. It’s a scaled-down replica of a certain golden alligator—the one you and your friends used to sneak into the palace the first time you entered the Kingdom.

It’s spot on, the boy replied, turning the piece over in his hands. Then he thanked the woman and passed the alligator figurine around the room for the others to get a better look at it.

Next came a large, flatter gift from Lady Juniper. When Oliver opened it, he discovered that it was an ancient tome: The Royal Book of the Blood. Oliver and his friends had retrieved the book from a heavily-guarded island on their second visit to the Kingdom. The book itself contained a wealth of knowledge on the history and royal families of the Kingdom, including a series of family trees that had helped the children locate the missing heirs to the land’s three thrones.

Lady Juniper, the king said as he flipped through the thick, yellowed pages. Are you sure you want me to have this? This is a piece of the Kingdom’s history.

I’m sure, the old woman nodded. And if you flip a few pages, you’ll see I’ve done my best to mend a ripped page. Jasmine provided the missing piece—the line of Mangonia; your own family.

Indeed the once-torn page had been sewn back into its original place in The Book of the Blood.

It may require some updating, Juniper continued. Perhaps you’ll enjoy editing it once the birthday festivities have subsided.

The boy thanked Juniper and Jasmine as an attendant handed him the next gift. Annie gifted a hand-drawn picture of the four friends—complete with a giant banyan tree in the background; Ben gave Oliver a poem he’d written; and Ellie offered him a special necklace consisting of a small bronze key threaded with twine. The key featured three emeralds on its handle.

Ellie! Oliver gasped, surprised to see the familiar little key after so long. Where did you get this? It appeared to be the same key he and his friends had used to escape the Kingdom and Florian’s pursuit some time ago.

Ben made it, said Ellie.

We found it in that old cave, Ben explained. Back when you and Ellie were trapped in our world and we were searching for a way to reopen the Gates.

It’s of no use for that purpose anymore, Ellie interjected. "So I thought it might help you remember your family. After all, it was their key to the old Gate—your mother and your grandmother, I mean."

Oliver silently turned over the key in his hand a few times, admiring the scrollwork and the glint of the gems. Thank you, Ellie, he finally replied, softly. This means quite a bit to me.

The boy king opened a few more gifts—those from Henry, Juliana, the Mouthpiece, and a handful of others—until he’d finished with all from those present in the cozy chamber. On the remaining large stack in the corner, Oliver noticed a small, long box coated in what looked like matte-black paper with a snakeskin pattern.

Who’s that one from? The boy inquired curiously, pointing.

When they had inspected the small box thoroughly, the servants replied that there was no name or label on the package. Perhaps it fell off in the shuffle, one suggested.

May I see it? The king asked. I think there’s time for just one more. The guests nodded in agreement as Oliver took the box in his hands and began to unwrap it.

The wrapping was thick and the texture felt coarse on Oliver’s fingertips. When he had removed the leathery paper, the boy found a smooth, unmarked wooden box inside. Curious, the king removed the box’s lid.

Inside was a long, black feather with a tip of vibrant red and a stripe of yellow.

Oliver looked to his guests and, dumbfounded, stated the obvious: It’s a feather!

Chapter Six

The Feather

Alright, said Oliver. Which of you gifted the feather?

The guests were silent, shaking their heads as they looked around the room awaiting an answer. Lightning flashed outside, casting a momentary vivid light in the dimly-lit room. When no one spoke up, Oliver adjusted his round glasses and returned his gaze to the mysterious specimen.

The quill had been sliced at an angle like an old writing pen. As Oliver removed the feather to show the others, he noticed a small inkwell in one corner of the box.

What a curious gift, he said, showing off the box’s contents.

Lady Juniper leaned in for a closer look. I believe, she began, that this may be some sort of enchanted writing utensil. I’ve seen many like it in my days.

Enchanted? Ben asked. What do you mean? It looks like a normal quill pen, to me.

I think Juniper’s right, said Lady Penelope. With this sort of enchanted feather, someone has usually hidden a secret message within it.

Inside the pen? Oliver was confounded and pulled the feather closer to his face to see if there was anything tucked away inside its narrow end. I don’t see anything.

"Not inside it, exactly, Penny clarified. When one dips the quill in the ink and puts the pen to paper, a message will be revealed."

The children were collectively enamored by the idea of a magical secret message, but still unsure of how it would work. Perhaps we put it to the test, Oliver stated as he called for a piece of parchment.

Soon a round, wooden table had been moved to the center of the room and a large piece of thick parchment placed on its surface in front of Oliver. As the king removed the inkwell from the box and set it beside the paper, the intrigued guests crowded around to view the magic experiment. The guests became silent and the sound of the drizzling rain seemed to grow louder. A peal of thunder crashed, vibrating the walls.

Here goes nothing, Oliver said as he dipped the striped feather’s quill into the tiny pot of ink. When he was satisfied that the quill was saturated, he removed it from the inkwell and held it over the blank sheet. A few drops landed on the corner of the parchment, leaving small, blood-red dots. So, what happens next?

Go ahead and try to write something, suggested Juniper.

Oliver placed the dripping pen near the top left corner of the parchment. As he applied a bit of pressure, he gasped. What’s happening? The pen began to guide itself, pulling his hand along with it as it scrawled out letterforms slowly. Oliver’s hand was stuck to the feather and he seemed to have no control over its movement.

The enchantment, Penelope muttered.

What does it say? Ellie asked, trying to discern the characters as they were inscribed.

Oliver made no reply while the writing continued, but held his mouth agape as he read the eerie red words to himself one-by-one. Finally, the pen scratched its final letters and the boy was able to lift his hand from the parchment once more. Oliver quickly threw the plume across the table, appalled by its strange power.

Ellie moved over next to the king and read the message aloud for all to hear:

Heirs beware Florian’s failsafe—

Everlasting if not broken

in three days time—if words not spoken:

beware the dreaded Curse of Coronado

birthed at midnight’s stroke.

"Then there’s just the letter M below that," explained Ellie.

A sudden burst of lightning and thunder startled the group. Little Toro began to whimper and Ben let out a high-pitched scream. Annie chuckled at the outburst while the boy tried to quickly change the subject.

What do you think it means? Ben directed his question to no one in particular.

Maybe it’s just some sort of practical joke, suggested Annie, looking around. Alright, whose idea was this? No one spoke up.

"Well, if it is a joke, it’s not amusing, Queen Jasmine said. If this so-called curse is real, it could mean something terrible for Coronado’s heirs—for Florian and Aria. I imagine it’s only a matter of time before the effects are made apparent."

Midnight, apparently, Ellie clarified, pointing at the message.

Juliana instinctively pulled little Aria closer to her bosom: What will happen to my baby?

I can only speculate, said Lady Penelope while comforting her own child who now wrapped his arms around her waist. But we shouldn’t waste our energy—or time—on speculation. For now, we need to focus on finding a way to break the curse.

Penny’s right, said Ellie. "We only have three days before they’re cursed forever."

"But we still don’t know what the curse is," Annie pointed out. Or who’s behind it.

I can only think of one person, said Juniper. It’s Malverne.

Oliver’s eyes widened: Are you certain?

There is no doubt, Penelope cut in. "The M is her signature and it’s in her handwriting; I’d recognize it anywhere."

"Then we have to find her, Oliver said with urgency. We have to compel her to remove the curse—only she knows how to break it. The boy paused before continuing somberly: And she knows where Coral is."

But how? Ben asked. How do we find her? She hasn’t exactly given us her home address.

While the children suddenly grew dejected by this reality, Juniper spoke once more: She hasn’t given us her address, but she has given us a very helpful clue.

What clue? Ellie wondered aloud.

Juniper pointed at the plume