The Witch Queen of Avalon
A Harry Potter UNIVERSE/ Sasporilla Bucket Fan Fiction
by Darren Kelly
Chapter 19
Nothing about the coronation of the new Witch Queen was as expected. The graphic on AVN wasn't the same old Royal Gold and Red with an ornate jeweled crown but a rather a plain pink crown melting way away into a multi coloured splash of hands joined on the flag of Avalon. Even the choice of music wasn't some pomp piece of ancient Royal bluster but rather a new song by the Chocolate frogs entitled 'WALK WITH ME'. The biggest surprise came as well at the behest of the new Witch Queen. No more would AVN give the best assignments to the reporters and anchors that were relatives of its board members, no they were now to be given out the person most qualified in the area to do so, as of her coronation! In the AVN stable of talent that meant only one person. She was AVN's foremost expert on Sasporilla Bucket and they had depended on her greatly in the last while for any and all information. However like all great assets, she was given neither respect, recognition nor an office at AVN... until today.
"This is Lilia Spungolo coming to you live from Avalon's Royal Palace." The young woman dark haired woman said into the camera, "The once feared center of tyranny of the old Witch Queen Baba Yaga, who had many fooled by occupying the bodies of other witches for centuries, has been defeated! Today our world of Avalon stands free thanks to the joint efforts of all its peoples lead by one young woman, Sasporilla Imaginarium Bucket."
A picture of Sasporilla appeared in the corner of the screen behind her. Nothing fancy or posed for, just her Avalon university ID pass shot.
"Since Sasporilla Bucket destroyed the Baba Yaga, our new Witch Queen, which is due to be crowned in just under an hour, has seen to the freeing of all of the victims of The old Witch Queens Tyranny. Political prisoners have been freed, those turned to stone have had the curse reversed thanks to the tireless efforts of an ancient spell found by Professor Phenix of Avalon University and her team and the new Witch Queens tireless efforts to free every person. Unfortunately those, whose statues were smashed, were unsaveable. Those who have been trapped for decades, even centuries are happy to be freed but find themselves strangers in a strange land.
"This heart warming footage of Sasporilla Bucket casting the ancient spell that freed her God Father, Nicholas Owlmore from his Statue state, deep within the inner garden court yards of the Royal Palace." Lilia Spungolo said.
Sasporilla taped her wand three times on the statue, right, top and left then a golden glow formed making the stone crumble away to sand leaving Nick Owlmore back in the living flesh.
"Wha... wher... Sasporilla?" Nick asked. "What's happened? Is this a trick?"
"No Uncle Nick." Sasporilla reassured the poor man, "It's me. I assure you. I'll explain."
Nick Owlmore hugged his Goddaughter.
That was all the proof he needed. The pair of them were brought to happy tears of reunion.
"We need to get you out of here before the Whitch Qu..." Nick Owlmore started but was soon silenced.
"No Uncle. The Witch Queen has been killed." Sassy nodded. "The people are free."
"Did you?" Nick asked.
"Mhm?" Sasporilla nodded.
"Then you're the?" Uncle Nick gaped!
"Yep!" Sassy smiled. "Sure am."
"That's marvelous!" Nick Owlmore hugged Sasporilla, picked her up off her feet and spun her around like he did when she was little making her laugh and his old backache.
"Here," Nick puffed, "you have put on a stone or two since you started Hogwarts haven't you?"
"Excuse me?" Sasporilla laughed.
"I am sorry about your auntie though kiddo." Nick said. "I always sort of had a thing for old boogie-woogie, despite her being a horrible person and all."
"Why Nicholas Owlmore!" Sasporilla chided him. "If you weren't my God father I'd stand you in that corner as punishment. OH! I guess you've had enough of that kind of punishment for a life time haven't you?"
Sasporilla burst into laughter as her Uncle Nick grabbed her to throw her into a headlock and mess up her hair.
"You horror!" Uncle Nick laughed. "You are your fathers daughter."
"We'll be back with the start of the Coronation after these messages. This Lilia Spungolo and THIS is AVN!"
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Sasporilla's coronation gown was not designed by the Royal dressmakers. The Arts Design Fashion final exam was to design a gown for the new Witch Queen's coronation! All designs fairly graded by the teachers of course BUT the design chosen by Sasporilla Bucket, if any, would be given an automatic A+++. That was the decision of the head of the arts and design department and she would hear nothing else about it!
Sasporilla appeared from the fitting room, for the first time before her procession of friends, wearing her gown. The base colour was a light lavender with leafed vines of green that broke out into floral displays of purple, white and pink flowers. Her hair was braided in a lose single pony tail hanging down her back, tied with a Hufflepuff hair tie left over from her days at Hogwarts. Small wild flowers were woven into her hair by some very talented elven weavers Sassy had asked to help.
Sasporilla wore her own semi-precious and nearly worthless bits of jewelry from Primark and Marks and Spencers clearance bins. She refused to wear the baubles from the crown jewels. The crown was all she would wear today.
"Oh Sassy." Karry said. "You look radiant!"
"I feel bloody foolish!" Sassy blushed. "Dressed up like a Barbie doll on display for everyone to look at."
"Don't be foolish," Lyra smiled. "The dress looks perfect on you! It covers up the huge wide butt of yours perfectly! Makes it look like you have a bustle designed in."
Sasporilla pursed her lips and thinned her eyes. Lyra knew a good retort was coming. "Gosh I've missed hearing you say things like that Lyra." Sassy giggled as she turned to look at the dress in the mirror. "Thank goodness you pull them so easily out of your bus wide backside!"
"Yes!" Lyra cheered and clapped.
"Honestly you girls!" Kolleen Curtis, Karry's mother laughed.
"Well Personally," Professor Splatterpallete smiled. "I'm just happy you chose a design Professor Backers thought was 'HORRIBLY PEDRSTRISN'! If it had been up to her you'd have come wearing a singing and dancing clock! And you think I'm a WHACK-A-DOODLE?"
Everyone laughed until Sasporilla mentioned that was this years top winning exam design.
"Oh my stars." Professor Phenix chuckled. "Can you imagine???"
Yes indeed, everyone laughed.
"Personally, on behalf of myself and Dina," Professor Phenix said, we just wanted to say thank you for including us in your personal procession."
"Everyone one of you must under stand something." Sasporilla said calling them all to her so that she could touch all hands at once. "You are not JUST my procession, ladies in waiting, or my friends. You are my FAMILY! My most loved and trusted! I would surround myself with no one else!"
A loud knock came at the door. Captain Skeevers of the Witch Queen's new personal Royal Guard stuck her head in. "Your Majesty, it's time."
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"...and the people are once again free to openly express their opinions without fear of reprisal." Lilia Spungolo reported over the AVN feed. She stood at street level, down by the crowd who, for once, stood without barricade. "The people here are calm and happy. Everyone's talking about how wonderful the new Witch Queen is and how excited they are about the rather confusing Promise to bring DEMOCRACY. However one thing is abundantly clear, the citizens of Avalon are happy and relieved to be out from under the thumb of tyranny."
"Now I believe we have a graphic of the route which will be taken today, which is different than traditionally taken coronation routes."
The graphic which came up showed the ancient parade route was done in a sepia tone on parchment.
"As we see here," Lilia Spungolo's voice carried over the graphic, followed by footage of prior coronation’s of young women's forms the Baba Yaga had stolen. "In past coronations the Witch Queen would leave the palace at nine am in her Royal Golden Carriage drawn by the team of Royal Black Octaron eight legged Horses. They would exit from the main courtyard and travel the road circling the palace. The Witch Queen would wave to on lookers and the carriage would return to the palace court yard approximately ten am."
The graphic changed to a very colourful modern one.
"Today's will be a very different route! As we've been told, the Royal procession will appear at nine am, from the Royal palace's court yard, but will then proceed down Avalon's Main Royal High Street through the heart of the city, past the university and Majesty station, all the way to the Avalon Angel's Spharx stadium. The place Baba Yaga saw defeat by here own evil magic, and the place where our new Witch Queen, Sasporilla Bucket, chose for this big day. A stadium big enough to hold thousands of Avalonian's. Oh, oh! I believe? Yes! The gates of the Royal palace court yard are opening!"
A procession of Royal Guard in a new White robes with single gold stripe down one side, white pants, boots and a white modern military style cap marched out raising old fashioned golden trumpets. They blew a celebratory tune to announce the coming of the new Monarch.
"These guards uniforms are unlike any I have ever seen." Lilia Spungolo said. "It has always been that we were forbidden to interview the Royal Guard but.... excuse me?"
The young reporter shouted running up to keep pace with one of the quick marching Royal guards, much to the chagrin of her cameraman.
"Can I ask you about your new uniforms?" Lila questioned the young man.
"By orders of the Witch Queen we ate free to answer any and all questions asked of us freely and honestly as we see fit. So... sure!" The young man smiled. "Ask away."
"Who designed them?" Lilia Spungolo asked.
"Some design student from the University. Not sure of the name, sorry. I'll mention to my Captain you asked and the information will make it's way too you today." The Guardsman smiled.
"It's a shame these are just for today, they look much more comfy than armour." The young reporter smiled.
"No Mam." The Guardsman corrected her. "These are now our everyday palace uniforms! The old Armour is a thing of the past. Our new combat armour will only be for emergencies and knock wood, may we never have to wear it!" The Guard said marching on.
What came next through the palace gates was quite a shock. It was a parade float!?! It magically floated forward on a myst of white that emanated below it. Many surmised the lights inside were Fae lending a helping hand. On the float was the official musical entertainment of the coronation, The Chocolate Frogs!
"Hello Avalon!" Myron Wagtail screamed. "We wanted today to be a CELEBRATION!"
The crowd cheered for the Myron, ever the master showman.
"So we're going to start this party off right! Do you feeling like dancing? Do you know how to do... the Hippogriff? 1,2,3..."
Much to everyone’s surprise the members of the Chocolate frogs were playing old Weird Sisters songs! No doubt at the request of the new Witch Queen. Their biggest fan, or at least Myron's.
"As you can see," Lilia Spungolo smiled. "This was truly a party for the ages."
The crowd danced and sang. Waving flags and shooting confetti and streamers from their wands.
It was the rarest thing anyone had ever seen in Avalon. It rolled through the gates of the Royal palace, shiny black and long, its twelve rubber wheels were unlike anything they had ever seen. Everyone but the Muggle born reporter.
"Lady’s and Gentlemen this is astounding!" Lilia Spungolo gasped. "I can not believe my eyes! Not since my days in the big city of Toronto have I seen such a car. Yes I said a car! A motor driven muggle convince of extreme luxury! I'd say this one is at least forty feet in length, maybe a bit longer. As we can see it's a roofless convertible and seems to contain many people."
They young reporter strained to get a better look of who all was in the car. She checked quickly against her notes.
"Yes that is the Witch Queen's procession! I can see her some of her best and closest friends and compatriots in the car...."
Then from the back of the car she stood up on the back seat and sat on the boot of the car. In her Lavender floral gown, Sasporilla Bucket smiled and waved to the people.
"Your Royal Highness?" Lilia hollered over the noise of the crowd, the engine and the music. "Your Royal Highness, may I ask you a question or two?"
"Sure," Sassy smiled for the camera, "and please call me Sasporilla. What's your name?"
"Lilia," the AVN reporter smiled, "Lilia Spungolo."
"I'm so very happy to see you again Lilia." Sasporilla said. "You probably don't remember me. I was just a new at Hogwarts the year you were there as an exchange student."
"Oh my Go..." Lilia gasped. "I never put together the shy little girl in the kitchens with the house elves."
"They're my family." Sasporilla smiled.
"And you remembered me?" Lilia asked.
"You liked Portuguese food." Sassy smiled. "So we worked hard to make sure you always had something special. Something to make you feel welcome and at home, and I never forget a face."
It was odd that something as small as being remembered by someone she really never knew should bring a tear to her eye but there was something special about the heart of this Witch Queen.
"Now." Sassy smiled. "What was your question?"
"Ummm yes ummm." Lilia stumbled slightly disarmed. "You've told the people of Avalon to prepare for democracy and freedom. Can you expand on that statement?"
"Yes of course!" Sasporilla said seriously. "It was not just a statement but a promise. It wasn't just for the Magi population either but every, and I mean EVERY member of our population of our WORLD! So I ask that everyone please stay tuned to after the coronation for a press conference that I will be holding. There I will announce my plans for upholding my promises of democracy and freedom for all!"
"Amazing news, and you heard it here first on AVN." Lilia smiled. "Can you tell everyone watching, I understand you're taking wand design at the University. Do you still plan on becoming a wand maker or is politics your future?"
"Wands are my first love." Sasporilla said. "I can promise I will fulfill my responsibilities as Witch Queen but I can tell you... in a few years, once I have finally graduated from my program at the University, I will look at finally starting that part of my life."
"Well I personally can't wait for the day when my own children might come into your shop to find their wands." Lilia smiled.
"I'll be excited to see you all on that special day!" Sassy grinned.
"Thank you Witch Queen, Sasporilla Bucket." Lilia Spungolo waved as the car drove on. "Wasn't that exciting and enlightening!"
A roar echoed from deep within the courtyard. Followed by another and another until finally....
"Ladies and Gentlemen, boys and girls I can't believe it but..." Lilia Spungolo said wide eyed and more excited than ever, "... yes it's the Royal Golden Dragon Broom Squad!"
The seven-guard elite trick broom flying squad took flight through the palace gates. With a roar, their mighty super powered Erumpant 1550XGT Super Dragon Brooms took off into the skies, with a rush of wind and a golden speckled magical flame trail behind.
In the air the performed many aerobatics maneuvers for the crowd. Flying in various formations celebrating the life, victory, and coronation of the new Witch Queen.
Witch Queen Sasporilla's Royal procession traveled the length of Avalon to the joy and cheers of many. There were some, dark miserable souls that simply glared coldly from crowd. They weren't happy with change in leadership and what this would mean for their places of power and position. If push came to shove...
"Really?" The veiled woman standing beside a craggy old man in elegant black robes said. "If push comes to shove you'd have to hire some one to eliminate the problem? Why you're the tenth I've heard think that today."
"Just who are you?" Meister Jibbly of the Grand Duchy of Oggington asked.
"Oh, let's just say I'm the eye of Royal security in this crowd." Agnes Moorsehead smiled."
"Hmmmm. Perhaps the invitation in your pocket to the coronation you're carrying, Meister Jibbly, it is now officially void."
The Meister drew the golden trimmed white envelop from his pocket and watched it disintegrate in his fingers. He noticed the Gaze of the Witch Queen apron him and he suddenly became very nervous. Sasporilla pouted and shrugged at the man, the playfully smiled and waved 'bye-bye'.
"But I've actually committed no crime!" The Meister smiled stiffly protesting. "I will not go quietly. I demand my councilor."
"Oh you’re not under arrest Meister." Agnes Smiled. "No no. Not for thinking about the assassination of someone. No no, that's not a crime. Sick yes... perhaps you should seek professional help. I could refer you to a good psycoanowiz at the University Hospital. At any rate no it's the other crimes you ARE guilty of such as over taxation, false imprisonment, kicking dogs! Shame on you Meister! No by the time you get back to your Grand Duchy of Oggington you will find a Royal investigations team going through your office, home and the secret files you keep disguised as casques of wine in your vineyards winery."
Anger flared in the old mans eyes, which went unseen by the blind seer, but was amusingly apparent.
"You are free to go." Agnes said lifting her veil revealing her blindness for the first time.
The Meister waved his hand before her face. Knowing she was truly without site he smiled slyly and started to walk away. "Yes, perhaps it's time I left."
As quick as a whip that tricky old man turned and fumbled pulling out his wand. "AVAD..." He began but thought rather better of it facing off with the blind Investigator and six other of Avalon Cities aurors.
"Now your under arrest." One of the aurors said placing the man in embracing bonds as most of the crowd only saw the Golden Dragon's as the flee over drawing an image of the new Witch Queen above them!
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Avalon Angel's Spharx stadium was filled to capacity when the Witch Queen's procession rolled in! Every seat was filled with anyone and everyone who wanted to come see Sasporilla Bucket crowned Witch Queen. Admission was first come first served though some were handed out in poorer areas of the city, to some of the best seats in the stands!
Two rows of chairs along either side of an aisle way stretched the length of the field held delegates from all of the representative communities of Avalon. Much to the chagrin of the muggle and Magi Nobel's that had been invited, both Goblin and Hobgoblins were also in attendance for the first time. As were the Fire Fae, the fierce war like Amzia Fae of the crystal canyons, and even creatures like Doxy's and Muck Dwarves! They had all promised to behave pending the big announcement then they would be automatically teleported home.
The front rows had the truly important people from Avalon and Earth. The Friends and Family of Sasporilla Bucket. The people she considered dignitaries, even if the other worlds did or did not. Her Uncle Nick Owlmore. Karry’s Dad, Karry’s Husband Zac and their baby, along with Karry’s Twin brother Korry. Unfortunately Madrigal, Korry's Significant other was unable to come. She had some issue with being able to come to Avalon suddenly. Headmistress McGonagall of Hogwarts was gracious enough to use the Hogwarts Express to bring some passengers for Sassy, in the way of Hogwarts House elves, some people from Hogsmeade like the Honeydukes who had generously agreed to make the coronation cake, and some of the centaurs from the forbidden forest. Hagrid was dressed in his best out fit and for the third time in his life, combed his hair! Draco Malfoy sat trying hard to look bored and uninterested as some of the old class mates, like Penny, Ron, Hermione and Harry tried to figure out just why he was down front with the rest of them. Of course Kathleen, Corina, Christin and Jess all sat excitedly waiting to see their dorm sister walk that runway!
As the procession entered the arena, the Royal guard trumpeters ran into the stadium and floated up into the air. Once they reached the center of the stadium the guard blew the three first notes of a song. A large pink bird could be seen swooping in.
"Ladies and Gentle men," the wonderful voice of Gloria Estefan, "please put your hands together for a surprise entrance display by the Witch Queen's own personal mail Flamingo "Jorge"! Joined by the Royal Trumpeters and... me."
Sasporilla's Car drove in to the stadium as Jorge flew into the center of the trumpeters, who started to play. "Come on shake your body baby do the Conga..." and Jorge started to dance in the air. The crowd cheered the A-typically talented Flamingo and he loved every minute of it.
Sasporilla pointed up, cheered, waved, clapped, hooted and sang along with everyone else. Just part of the crowd.
The Chocolate Frog's float had as good as vanished as it passed through the gates ahead of the Queens car. The entire thing heading underneath the stadium to get the group to the stage.
"Are the instruments tuned and ready?" Myron asked.
"Everything is as expected Mr.Wagtail." one of the roadies said.
"That bad?" Myron laughed. "Just another day. Right lads, let's put on a show!
Sasporilla was never more delighted than to see Jorge land on stage and dance with Gloria Estefan for the last part of the song. This moment was a dream come true for her faithful Flamingo. There was never more deserved a standing ovation, in the history of shows put on in Avalon, then there was for Jorge the dancing Flamingo.
Sasporilla was whisked away into a small Royal gold tent with the rest of her procession. The inside of the tent was much larger inside and was alive with activity. Many members of the Royal house hold staff were a buzz with jobs to do. The Witch Queen's hired Royal coronation advisor Professor Garvy Beanhomm, an expert in all things coronation from Avalon University, kept things running like a well oiled machine.
"Did any one see if Angelo was there?" Sasporilla asked as the Royal dressers helped to affix a very heavy Royal fur cape to her shoulders.
"Of course he's there." Kerry smiled. "Right up front. Right where he should be."
"Good." Sassy smiled, until something caught her attention. "Excuse me." Sasporilla asked. "Is this the cape I was told about? The great symbol of unity across our world?"
"Yes your highness." The Older woman said.
"May I ask what it's made of?" Sassy cringed.
"It's Nundu fur, trimmed in Zouwu fur with and inlayed with faery wing."
"Get... this... abomination... off... me......... PLEASE!!!!" Sasporilla growled.
Karry had never heard Sasporilla so mad and so polite at the same time.
"Have I done something to offend you, your highness?" The old woman became terrified.
"No." Sasporilla took a deep breath, remembering her predecessor. "The issue I have is with the evil it took to make this cloak. I will not wear it."
The dressers unclipped the cape and began to remove it when the Coronation advisor ran up in a panic.
"No no no, your Highness you don't understand," Professor Garvy Beanhomm smiled patronizingly at the young woman. "This cape is a Royal tradition. Considered part of the crown jewels and not optional. Put it back on her."
"Excuse me?" Sasporilla said stepping down, noticing professor Splatterpalette conspicuously missing. "I hate to pull rank you 'Sir', you being a 'Professor' and me being a first year student and all but just WHO IS BEING CROWND BLOODY WITCH QUEEN?"
"You are your highness." Professor Garvy Beanhomm gulped.
"And if I say killing wild animals for their fur upsets me and I don't choose to wear them then...?" Sassy asked her eyebrows raised trying to lead the man to her train of thought.
" Then it's time for a new one?" Professor Garvy Beanhomm sighed.
"Exactly what I was thinking." Sasporilla smiled.
"Where will we get one at this late minute?" Professor Garvy Beanhomm asked. "I could get someone to transfigure this one but..."
"No, absolutely not!" Sasporilla refused. "It would still be the same cape with same fur! Even if it looks like your mums old kitchen curtains!!!"
"I've got one!" Professor Splatterpalette announced walking in with a small purple bag. "Courtesy of Alison Pomegranate!"
"Professor Splatterpalette," Professor Beanhomm huffed, "we are in the middle of a cloak crisis. A little purple bag is hardly the...."
The arts and design teacher politely smiled at the annoying old curmudgeon as she reached in to the small purple bag and turned it inside out revealing it to be a well designed Royal purple cloak of fine Avalonian silks trimmed in pink, inlayed with spun gold and silver.
"This is beautiful Professor." Sasporilla smiled. "And absolutely perfect! Alison designed this?"
"Yes indeed!" Professor Splatterpalette said. "She wants to design capes, and cloaks and refused to design a dress so she was handed an F-! Now if you were to wear this...?"
"Clip it on me!!!" Sasporilla smiled much to the old Royal dresser's delight.
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"Lilia Spungolo back with you here at Avalon Angel's Spharx stadium," the young reporter now sat at a desk over-looking the stadium with a great field view of the coronation stage, "where in moments we expect to see the coronation of Sasporilla Imaginarium Bucket, the little girl many thought was born without magic as her mother was, is about to be crowned Witch Queen of Avalon! The second crown she has received also having been crowned, and forced to walk away from, Queen of the worker Elves."
The lights lowered and the music started to waft from the stage. The low humming of guitar that was unlike the classical pomp that accompanied the previous Witch Queen. Then the slow, low words of Myron Wagtail. "Turn off your mind, relax and float down stream...."
"!!!BOOM!!!" Fire works went off as the drums pounded and Music started to play. TOMORROW NEVER KNOWS - by the Weird Sisters played by The Chocolate Frogs. A spotlight from the stage shot from the front of Myron Wagtail down the center aisle between the chairs to the end of the carpet to reveal Sasporilla Bucket standing there in her gown. Her best of friends held the train of her cape as she walked forward at pace to the music.
"Ladies and Gentlemen." Lilia Spungolo's said in a voice over as the camera followed Sasporilla down the aisle, "Sasporilla Bucket, the new Witch Queen is approaching the stage! Her dress is a beautiful Lavender and pink floral gown designed as we at AVN have been told by a student at the University! She has for some reason refused to wear the crown Jewels other than the jeweled gold clasp holding her unrecognized cape on. The clasp is representative of unity in our world and I'm sure that's why she chose to wear it. It's taking all of her ladies in waiting to hold that train aloft. I must say I am surprised at the quick pace they are walking at. I honestly thought they would walk slower. At this rate her Royal Highness will reach the stage by the end of this song!"
Sasporilla met Angelo's gaze peering at her from the front row. She blushed and smiled when she saw him.
"That put a bit a wiggle in her walk." Lyra laughed.
"Shut it you." Sassy said from between a clenched tooth smile as she took the first big step up the sweeping staircase to the stage. At each step one lady in waiting dropped off and supported the cape with their wand as Sasporilla walked on stage. She walked towards a throne and a dais where the ArchBishop of the church of Avalon awaited.
Sasporilla walked center stage as the song ended. She turned and people went crazy with applause. She assumed it was for the band. She looked to Myron and the other Chocolate Frogs and applauded them. Myron Wagtail walked over, gallantly bent down on one knee, took Sasporilla's hand and kissed it and handed her a beautiful pink Rose. "My Queen."
"Charmer." Sassy smiled. "Now comes the hard part."
"You got this Sassy!" Myron winked. "Just a few moments more."
The other Frogs bowed to the Witch Queen politely and walked off stage to thunderous applause. The ArchBishop stepped up to his dais and cast "SONOROUS" so he could be heard by all.
"Sirs and Madame’s, I here present unto you
Witch Queen Sasporilla Imaginarium Bucket the first your undoubted Queen." The ArchBishop Smiled. "Wherefore all you who are come this day to do your homage and service, Are you willing to do the same?"
The people of Avalon cheered all with one voice crying out GOD SAVE WITCH QUEEN SASPORILLA!!!
The trumpets sounded.
Sassy sat on the throne, a rather uncomfortable chair made of gold and cushioned in thin velvet pillows, and undid the clasp of her rather long cape discretely folding it back into a purple bag. The Archbishop standing before her administers the Coronation Oath. "Madam, is your Majesty willing to take the Oath?"
"I am willing." Sasporilla answered.
"Will you solemnly promise," the ArchBishop asked " and swear to govern the Peoples of Avalon, according to their respective laws and customs?"
"I solemnly promise so to do." Sassy nodded.
"Will you to your power cause Law and Justice, in Mercy, to be executed in all your judgements?" The ArchBishop asked.
"You had better believe I will." Sasporilla insisted.
"Do you promise these things today honestly before God?" The ArchBishop demanded.
"I do." Sasporilla smiled. "Of course I do."
"Rise." The ArchBishop commanded.
"Ah common..." Sassy smiled. "Say please."
The crowd laughed.
"Ummm...ohhh...ummm...." the ArchBishop stammered, "Please your highness."
Sasporilla stood up with grace and poise. Sasporilla is escorted over to an altar area where a padded kneeler had been placed. A Bible and a bunch of sacred Royal relics of position were placed on the alter before her.
"Repeat after me." The ArchBishop said. "The things which I have here before promised, I will perform, and keep. So help me God."
"The things which I have here before promised, I will perform, and keep. So help me God." Sasporilla said.
And kissing the Bible, Sasporilla Bucket takes the Royal Quill and signs the Oath and returns to the throne to more applause.
The ArchBishop then brings the Bible over to Sasporilla and presents it to her.
"Our gracious Queen." The ArchBishop smiled. "To keep your Majesty ever mindful of the law and the Gospel of God as the Rule for the whole life and government of Christian Princes, we present you with this Book, the most valuable thing that this world affords. Here is Wisdom; This is the royal Law; These are the lively Oracles of God."
Sasporilla nodded and handed the Bible back to the man who took it to the dais where he performed a very moving service of Psalms and other passages.
The ArchBishop blessed her with Holy oil as it was in ancient times. The Staff of Orianthii was carried over and presented by a Goblin from Gringots guarded by Royal Guardsmen and a trusted worker elf. The staff of Orianthii was a relic of great power. In the wrong hands it could cause great destruction. Thought stolen for centuries it mysteriously reappeared after the death of Baba Yaga in the Royal Vaults, where it should have been all along! Many suspect a defensive spell by Merlin... just in case.
"And God" the Arch Bishop continued, "and so direct and support thy servant
Queen Sasporilla that she may not bear the staff in vain; but may use it as the minister of God for the protection and encouragement of those that do well. Amen."
The staff is handed to Sasporilla. A glow is seen in her eyes and she gasps, cries, then giggles and laughs.
"This is no laughing matter child." The ArchBishop Chided her.
"No I agree." Sasporilla said. "This staff contains great, powerful magic! It's allowed me to see many paths. Many futures for many decisions, in seconds. It's shown me the results... good and bad... of my own intentions. As well as the wheels within wheels of other schemes. I found it most entertaining. Arch... Bishop."
The ArchBishop gulped hard.
"D-do you Receive this Queenly Staff brought now from the Altar of God,
and delivered to you by the hands of us
the Bishops and servants of God, though unworthy. With this staff do justice, stop the growth of iniquity, protect the holy Church of God, help and defend widows and orphans, restore the things that are gone to decay, maintain the things that are restored,
punish and reform what is amiss, and confirm what is in good order: that doing these things you may be glorious in all virtue; and so faithfully serve our God in this life, that you may reign for ever with him in the life which is to come. Amen."
Sasporilla rose up and went to the alter. She looked over at a young man in a brown robe.
"What's your name?" Sassy smiled.
"Me?" The young monk pointed at himself shyly. "I'm brother Tucker. I'm no one."
"Arch Bishop, do you have your speech for today written down?" Sasporilla asked.
"Well, yes but..." the ArchBishop began.
"Guards, please escort this man back to the stadium security lock up and call the police." Sasporilla said. "Charges have been pending against him for years and they have been covered up. Let him have a fair trial by the people. Brother Tucker, please finish the ceremony for us?"
"This is out rageous!" The ArchBishop screamed as he was dragged away amongst gasps and cheers.
"I'm sorry friends." Sasporilla said. "The staff showed me the truth of his crimes, which are many I assure you. I could show you, but I would save you the horror of some of what I've seen."
The staff was taken by the goblin and returned to it's home in the Royal vault.
"Ummm...ok..." Brother Tucker said looking at the notes. "Wow, the Arch Bishop's notes are surprisingly rude? Not very Christian of him. Ok I see where we are. Ladies and Gentlemen I'm kind of new at this so please bear with me?"
"You're doing smashing!" Sasporilla smiled giving him a thumbs up.
"The Witch Queen has asked not to have the usual crown jewels brought to her. The ring, the bracelets, necklace, new scepter that was made and orb as she is.... what???" Brother Tucker turned to Sasporilla amazed, looking at her with his mouth hanging open wide. "Really???"
"Yes." Sasporilla nodded smiling shyly. "Go ahead and tell them."
"The Witch Queen is donating the crown jewels, with the exception of the new crown crafted, and a portion palace treasurery to pay reparations to the victims and families of victims of the Baba Yaga."
The crowd fell silent. It was like they couldn't believe anyone in power in Avalon was ever taking responsibility for anything that had ever happened ever.
"My name is Sasporilla Bucket. You wanted a Witch Queen, well with me... the buck stops here." Sassy said. The cheers were deafening.
Brother Tucker got everyone settled down and seated again after about ten minutes. Looking in the notes he started to laugh. "Can I ask you all to rise?"
Brother Tucker shuffled over to the altar and took picked up the new crown fashioned for the Witch Queen by The finest Goblin jewelers of Avalon. Unlike the old crown, which was large and full of diamonds, this one was small. Not much bigger than a tiara, made of platinum with no diamonds, only a single pink stone.
Brother Tucker read the pages as he stood before the crown. "O God the Crown of the faithful. Bless we beseech thee this Crown, and so sanctify thy servant Sasporilla upon whose head this day thou dost place it for a sign of royal majesty, that she may be filled by thine abundant grace with all princely virtues. Amen."
Brother Tucker was assisted by guardsman who carried the crown on a cushion over to the side of the throne.
"Ready?" Brother Tucker asked.
"I guess." Sassy grimaced comically. "Got nothin' else to do this morning."
Brother Tucker gently picked up the crown and lifted it over, placing it down on the head of her Royal Majesty, The Witch Queen, Sasporilla Imaginarium Bucket.
"GOD SAVE THE WITCH QUEEN!" Brother Tucker cheered
"GOD SAVE THE WITCH QUEEN!" The crowd cheered. "GOD SAVE THE WITCH QUEEN! GOD SAVE THE WITCH QUEEN! GOD SAVE THE WITCH QUEEN!"
Sasporilla stood and as Brother Tucker and others started to kneel she stopped them.
"No please stop!" Sasporilla insisted. "Please stand. I must explain something to you as I did to the worker elves."
Sasporilla took a knee before her subjects.
"I am your Queen." Sasporilla said humbly. "I serve you. You do not bow before me, I bow before you. It is always been power serves itself. Today, that changes in Avalon. Forever!"
The people cast confetti and fire works. As Sasporilla stood up and the Chocolate Frogs returned to the stage. The band played while the Witch Queen assisted the Worker elves remove the throne and other props of coronation from the stage. She used her wand more than her hands but honestly, she didn't want to get the Gown she'd been leant dirty! Once done she levitated the dais to center stage as the Chocolate Frogs finished up their set. Sasporilla walked up and smiled.
"Hi everyone." Sassy said. "I promised a big announcement, One promising you Democracy and freedom, after I was crowned Witch Queen. So here it is. Within one year, the position of Witch Queen will be no more than a figure head."
"What?" People gasped.
"I intend to have every, and I mean every, group of peoples on this world have FREE, OPEN and HONEST elections to elect representatives for their own democratically run systems of government with a member sent to a world council. All members will have equal voices and equal votes! Not just Magi, but all Fae, Goblins and Hobgoblins. All dwarves, gnolls, doxies, harpies, and a fascilitator to judge and keep the council fair!"
The crowd was a gape at the news.
"I'm not saying it will be easy." Sasporilla said. "It will be hard at first. Maybe hard to even find good honest people. Trust me, that's hard on the world I'm from. However fair trial and honesty... and magical truth spells will create an environment you can work with. I'm sorry if I disappoint you as a Witch Queen by giving you a democratic governmental system." Sasporilla sighed. "But I would rather see you free than back under the rule of another tyrannical Witch Queen."
The crowd applauded slowly at first. However as people stood it got faster and, and faster as people showed their genuine approval and admiration for the young woman, Sasporilla Bucket Avalon's new Witch Queen.
Nothing about the coronation of the new Witch Queen was as expected. The graphic on AVN wasn't the same old Royal Gold and Red with an ornate jeweled crown but a rather a plain pink crown melting way away into a multi coloured splash of hands joined on the flag of Avalon. Even the choice of music wasn't some pomp piece of ancient Royal bluster but rather a new song by the Chocolate frogs entitled 'WALK WITH ME'. The biggest surprise came as well at the behest of the new Witch Queen. No more would AVN give the best assignments to the reporters and anchors that were relatives of its board members, no they were now to be given out the person most qualified in the area to do so, as of her coronation! In the AVN stable of talent that meant only one person. She was AVN's foremost expert on Sasporilla Bucket and they had depended on her greatly in the last while for any and all information. However like all great assets, she was given neither respect, recognition nor an office at AVN... until today.
"This is Lilia Spungolo coming to you live from Avalon's Royal Palace." The young woman dark haired woman said into the camera, "The once feared center of tyranny of the old Witch Queen Baba Yaga, who had many fooled by occupying the bodies of other witches for centuries, has been defeated! Today our world of Avalon stands free thanks to the joint efforts of all its peoples lead by one young woman, Sasporilla Imaginarium Bucket."
A picture of Sasporilla appeared in the corner of the screen behind her. Nothing fancy or posed for, just her Avalon university ID pass shot.
"Since Sasporilla Bucket destroyed the Baba Yaga, our new Witch Queen, which is due to be crowned in just under an hour, has seen to the freeing of all of the victims of The old Witch Queens Tyranny. Political prisoners have been freed, those turned to stone have had the curse reversed thanks to the tireless efforts of an ancient spell found by Professor Phenix of Avalon University and her team and the new Witch Queens tireless efforts to free every person. Unfortunately those, whose statues were smashed, were unsaveable. Those who have been trapped for decades, even centuries are happy to be freed but find themselves strangers in a strange land.
"This heart warming footage of Sasporilla Bucket casting the ancient spell that freed her God Father, Nicholas Owlmore from his Statue state, deep within the inner garden court yards of the Royal Palace." Lilia Spungolo said.
Sasporilla taped her wand three times on the statue, right, top and left then a golden glow formed making the stone crumble away to sand leaving Nick Owlmore back in the living flesh.
"Wha... wher... Sasporilla?" Nick asked. "What's happened? Is this a trick?"
"No Uncle Nick." Sasporilla reassured the poor man, "It's me. I assure you. I'll explain."
Nick Owlmore hugged his Goddaughter.
That was all the proof he needed. The pair of them were brought to happy tears of reunion.
"We need to get you out of here before the Whitch Qu..." Nick Owlmore started but was soon silenced.
"No Uncle. The Witch Queen has been killed." Sassy nodded. "The people are free."
"Did you?" Nick asked.
"Mhm?" Sasporilla nodded.
"Then you're the?" Uncle Nick gaped!
"Yep!" Sassy smiled. "Sure am."
"That's marvelous!" Nick Owlmore hugged Sasporilla, picked her up off her feet and spun her around like he did when she was little making her laugh and his old backache.
"Here," Nick puffed, "you have put on a stone or two since you started Hogwarts haven't you?"
"Excuse me?" Sasporilla laughed.
"I am sorry about your auntie though kiddo." Nick said. "I always sort of had a thing for old boogie-woogie, despite her being a horrible person and all."
"Why Nicholas Owlmore!" Sasporilla chided him. "If you weren't my God father I'd stand you in that corner as punishment. OH! I guess you've had enough of that kind of punishment for a life time haven't you?"
Sasporilla burst into laughter as her Uncle Nick grabbed her to throw her into a headlock and mess up her hair.
"You horror!" Uncle Nick laughed. "You are your fathers daughter."
"We'll be back with the start of the Coronation after these messages. This Lilia Spungolo and THIS is AVN!"
******************************
Sasporilla's coronation gown was not designed by the Royal dressmakers. The Arts Design Fashion final exam was to design a gown for the new Witch Queen's coronation! All designs fairly graded by the teachers of course BUT the design chosen by Sasporilla Bucket, if any, would be given an automatic A+++. That was the decision of the head of the arts and design department and she would hear nothing else about it!
Sasporilla appeared from the fitting room, for the first time before her procession of friends, wearing her gown. The base colour was a light lavender with leafed vines of green that broke out into floral displays of purple, white and pink flowers. Her hair was braided in a lose single pony tail hanging down her back, tied with a Hufflepuff hair tie left over from her days at Hogwarts. Small wild flowers were woven into her hair by some very talented elven weavers Sassy had asked to help.
Sasporilla wore her own semi-precious and nearly worthless bits of jewelry from Primark and Marks and Spencers clearance bins. She refused to wear the baubles from the crown jewels. The crown was all she would wear today.
"Oh Sassy." Karry said. "You look radiant!"
"I feel bloody foolish!" Sassy blushed. "Dressed up like a Barbie doll on display for everyone to look at."
"Don't be foolish," Lyra smiled. "The dress looks perfect on you! It covers up the huge wide butt of yours perfectly! Makes it look like you have a bustle designed in."
Sasporilla pursed her lips and thinned her eyes. Lyra knew a good retort was coming. "Gosh I've missed hearing you say things like that Lyra." Sassy giggled as she turned to look at the dress in the mirror. "Thank goodness you pull them so easily out of your bus wide backside!"
"Yes!" Lyra cheered and clapped.
"Honestly you girls!" Kolleen Curtis, Karry's mother laughed.
"Well Personally," Professor Splatterpallete smiled. "I'm just happy you chose a design Professor Backers thought was 'HORRIBLY PEDRSTRISN'! If it had been up to her you'd have come wearing a singing and dancing clock! And you think I'm a WHACK-A-DOODLE?"
Everyone laughed until Sasporilla mentioned that was this years top winning exam design.
"Oh my stars." Professor Phenix chuckled. "Can you imagine???"
Yes indeed, everyone laughed.
"Personally, on behalf of myself and Dina," Professor Phenix said, we just wanted to say thank you for including us in your personal procession."
"Everyone one of you must under stand something." Sasporilla said calling them all to her so that she could touch all hands at once. "You are not JUST my procession, ladies in waiting, or my friends. You are my FAMILY! My most loved and trusted! I would surround myself with no one else!"
A loud knock came at the door. Captain Skeevers of the Witch Queen's new personal Royal Guard stuck her head in. "Your Majesty, it's time."
*********************************
"...and the people are once again free to openly express their opinions without fear of reprisal." Lilia Spungolo reported over the AVN feed. She stood at street level, down by the crowd who, for once, stood without barricade. "The people here are calm and happy. Everyone's talking about how wonderful the new Witch Queen is and how excited they are about the rather confusing Promise to bring DEMOCRACY. However one thing is abundantly clear, the citizens of Avalon are happy and relieved to be out from under the thumb of tyranny."
"Now I believe we have a graphic of the route which will be taken today, which is different than traditionally taken coronation routes."
The graphic which came up showed the ancient parade route was done in a sepia tone on parchment.
"As we see here," Lilia Spungolo's voice carried over the graphic, followed by footage of prior coronation’s of young women's forms the Baba Yaga had stolen. "In past coronations the Witch Queen would leave the palace at nine am in her Royal Golden Carriage drawn by the team of Royal Black Octaron eight legged Horses. They would exit from the main courtyard and travel the road circling the palace. The Witch Queen would wave to on lookers and the carriage would return to the palace court yard approximately ten am."
The graphic changed to a very colourful modern one.
"Today's will be a very different route! As we've been told, the Royal procession will appear at nine am, from the Royal palace's court yard, but will then proceed down Avalon's Main Royal High Street through the heart of the city, past the university and Majesty station, all the way to the Avalon Angel's Spharx stadium. The place Baba Yaga saw defeat by here own evil magic, and the place where our new Witch Queen, Sasporilla Bucket, chose for this big day. A stadium big enough to hold thousands of Avalonian's. Oh, oh! I believe? Yes! The gates of the Royal palace court yard are opening!"
A procession of Royal Guard in a new White robes with single gold stripe down one side, white pants, boots and a white modern military style cap marched out raising old fashioned golden trumpets. They blew a celebratory tune to announce the coming of the new Monarch.
"These guards uniforms are unlike any I have ever seen." Lilia Spungolo said. "It has always been that we were forbidden to interview the Royal Guard but.... excuse me?"
The young reporter shouted running up to keep pace with one of the quick marching Royal guards, much to the chagrin of her cameraman.
"Can I ask you about your new uniforms?" Lila questioned the young man.
"By orders of the Witch Queen we ate free to answer any and all questions asked of us freely and honestly as we see fit. So... sure!" The young man smiled. "Ask away."
"Who designed them?" Lilia Spungolo asked.
"Some design student from the University. Not sure of the name, sorry. I'll mention to my Captain you asked and the information will make it's way too you today." The Guardsman smiled.
"It's a shame these are just for today, they look much more comfy than armour." The young reporter smiled.
"No Mam." The Guardsman corrected her. "These are now our everyday palace uniforms! The old Armour is a thing of the past. Our new combat armour will only be for emergencies and knock wood, may we never have to wear it!" The Guard said marching on.
What came next through the palace gates was quite a shock. It was a parade float!?! It magically floated forward on a myst of white that emanated below it. Many surmised the lights inside were Fae lending a helping hand. On the float was the official musical entertainment of the coronation, The Chocolate Frogs!
"Hello Avalon!" Myron Wagtail screamed. "We wanted today to be a CELEBRATION!"
The crowd cheered for the Myron, ever the master showman.
"So we're going to start this party off right! Do you feeling like dancing? Do you know how to do... the Hippogriff? 1,2,3..."
Much to everyone’s surprise the members of the Chocolate frogs were playing old Weird Sisters songs! No doubt at the request of the new Witch Queen. Their biggest fan, or at least Myron's.
"As you can see," Lilia Spungolo smiled. "This was truly a party for the ages."
The crowd danced and sang. Waving flags and shooting confetti and streamers from their wands.
It was the rarest thing anyone had ever seen in Avalon. It rolled through the gates of the Royal palace, shiny black and long, its twelve rubber wheels were unlike anything they had ever seen. Everyone but the Muggle born reporter.
"Lady’s and Gentlemen this is astounding!" Lilia Spungolo gasped. "I can not believe my eyes! Not since my days in the big city of Toronto have I seen such a car. Yes I said a car! A motor driven muggle convince of extreme luxury! I'd say this one is at least forty feet in length, maybe a bit longer. As we can see it's a roofless convertible and seems to contain many people."
They young reporter strained to get a better look of who all was in the car. She checked quickly against her notes.
"Yes that is the Witch Queen's procession! I can see her some of her best and closest friends and compatriots in the car...."
Then from the back of the car she stood up on the back seat and sat on the boot of the car. In her Lavender floral gown, Sasporilla Bucket smiled and waved to the people.
"Your Royal Highness?" Lilia hollered over the noise of the crowd, the engine and the music. "Your Royal Highness, may I ask you a question or two?"
"Sure," Sassy smiled for the camera, "and please call me Sasporilla. What's your name?"
"Lilia," the AVN reporter smiled, "Lilia Spungolo."
"I'm so very happy to see you again Lilia." Sasporilla said. "You probably don't remember me. I was just a new at Hogwarts the year you were there as an exchange student."
"Oh my Go..." Lilia gasped. "I never put together the shy little girl in the kitchens with the house elves."
"They're my family." Sasporilla smiled.
"And you remembered me?" Lilia asked.
"You liked Portuguese food." Sassy smiled. "So we worked hard to make sure you always had something special. Something to make you feel welcome and at home, and I never forget a face."
It was odd that something as small as being remembered by someone she really never knew should bring a tear to her eye but there was something special about the heart of this Witch Queen.
"Now." Sassy smiled. "What was your question?"
"Ummm yes ummm." Lilia stumbled slightly disarmed. "You've told the people of Avalon to prepare for democracy and freedom. Can you expand on that statement?"
"Yes of course!" Sasporilla said seriously. "It was not just a statement but a promise. It wasn't just for the Magi population either but every, and I mean EVERY member of our population of our WORLD! So I ask that everyone please stay tuned to after the coronation for a press conference that I will be holding. There I will announce my plans for upholding my promises of democracy and freedom for all!"
"Amazing news, and you heard it here first on AVN." Lilia smiled. "Can you tell everyone watching, I understand you're taking wand design at the University. Do you still plan on becoming a wand maker or is politics your future?"
"Wands are my first love." Sasporilla said. "I can promise I will fulfill my responsibilities as Witch Queen but I can tell you... in a few years, once I have finally graduated from my program at the University, I will look at finally starting that part of my life."
"Well I personally can't wait for the day when my own children might come into your shop to find their wands." Lilia smiled.
"I'll be excited to see you all on that special day!" Sassy grinned.
"Thank you Witch Queen, Sasporilla Bucket." Lilia Spungolo waved as the car drove on. "Wasn't that exciting and enlightening!"
A roar echoed from deep within the courtyard. Followed by another and another until finally....
"Ladies and Gentlemen, boys and girls I can't believe it but..." Lilia Spungolo said wide eyed and more excited than ever, "... yes it's the Royal Golden Dragon Broom Squad!"
The seven-guard elite trick broom flying squad took flight through the palace gates. With a roar, their mighty super powered Erumpant 1550XGT Super Dragon Brooms took off into the skies, with a rush of wind and a golden speckled magical flame trail behind.
In the air the performed many aerobatics maneuvers for the crowd. Flying in various formations celebrating the life, victory, and coronation of the new Witch Queen.
Witch Queen Sasporilla's Royal procession traveled the length of Avalon to the joy and cheers of many. There were some, dark miserable souls that simply glared coldly from crowd. They weren't happy with change in leadership and what this would mean for their places of power and position. If push came to shove...
"Really?" The veiled woman standing beside a craggy old man in elegant black robes said. "If push comes to shove you'd have to hire some one to eliminate the problem? Why you're the tenth I've heard think that today."
"Just who are you?" Meister Jibbly of the Grand Duchy of Oggington asked.
"Oh, let's just say I'm the eye of Royal security in this crowd." Agnes Moorsehead smiled."
"Hmmmm. Perhaps the invitation in your pocket to the coronation you're carrying, Meister Jibbly, it is now officially void."
The Meister drew the golden trimmed white envelop from his pocket and watched it disintegrate in his fingers. He noticed the Gaze of the Witch Queen apron him and he suddenly became very nervous. Sasporilla pouted and shrugged at the man, the playfully smiled and waved 'bye-bye'.
"But I've actually committed no crime!" The Meister smiled stiffly protesting. "I will not go quietly. I demand my councilor."
"Oh you’re not under arrest Meister." Agnes Smiled. "No no. Not for thinking about the assassination of someone. No no, that's not a crime. Sick yes... perhaps you should seek professional help. I could refer you to a good psycoanowiz at the University Hospital. At any rate no it's the other crimes you ARE guilty of such as over taxation, false imprisonment, kicking dogs! Shame on you Meister! No by the time you get back to your Grand Duchy of Oggington you will find a Royal investigations team going through your office, home and the secret files you keep disguised as casques of wine in your vineyards winery."
Anger flared in the old mans eyes, which went unseen by the blind seer, but was amusingly apparent.
"You are free to go." Agnes said lifting her veil revealing her blindness for the first time.
The Meister waved his hand before her face. Knowing she was truly without site he smiled slyly and started to walk away. "Yes, perhaps it's time I left."
As quick as a whip that tricky old man turned and fumbled pulling out his wand. "AVAD..." He began but thought rather better of it facing off with the blind Investigator and six other of Avalon Cities aurors.
"Now your under arrest." One of the aurors said placing the man in embracing bonds as most of the crowd only saw the Golden Dragon's as the flee over drawing an image of the new Witch Queen above them!
*******************************
Avalon Angel's Spharx stadium was filled to capacity when the Witch Queen's procession rolled in! Every seat was filled with anyone and everyone who wanted to come see Sasporilla Bucket crowned Witch Queen. Admission was first come first served though some were handed out in poorer areas of the city, to some of the best seats in the stands!
Two rows of chairs along either side of an aisle way stretched the length of the field held delegates from all of the representative communities of Avalon. Much to the chagrin of the muggle and Magi Nobel's that had been invited, both Goblin and Hobgoblins were also in attendance for the first time. As were the Fire Fae, the fierce war like Amzia Fae of the crystal canyons, and even creatures like Doxy's and Muck Dwarves! They had all promised to behave pending the big announcement then they would be automatically teleported home.
The front rows had the truly important people from Avalon and Earth. The Friends and Family of Sasporilla Bucket. The people she considered dignitaries, even if the other worlds did or did not. Her Uncle Nick Owlmore. Karry’s Dad, Karry’s Husband Zac and their baby, along with Karry’s Twin brother Korry. Unfortunately Madrigal, Korry's Significant other was unable to come. She had some issue with being able to come to Avalon suddenly. Headmistress McGonagall of Hogwarts was gracious enough to use the Hogwarts Express to bring some passengers for Sassy, in the way of Hogwarts House elves, some people from Hogsmeade like the Honeydukes who had generously agreed to make the coronation cake, and some of the centaurs from the forbidden forest. Hagrid was dressed in his best out fit and for the third time in his life, combed his hair! Draco Malfoy sat trying hard to look bored and uninterested as some of the old class mates, like Penny, Ron, Hermione and Harry tried to figure out just why he was down front with the rest of them. Of course Kathleen, Corina, Christin and Jess all sat excitedly waiting to see their dorm sister walk that runway!
As the procession entered the arena, the Royal guard trumpeters ran into the stadium and floated up into the air. Once they reached the center of the stadium the guard blew the three first notes of a song. A large pink bird could be seen swooping in.
"Ladies and Gentle men," the wonderful voice of Gloria Estefan, "please put your hands together for a surprise entrance display by the Witch Queen's own personal mail Flamingo "Jorge"! Joined by the Royal Trumpeters and... me."
Sasporilla's Car drove in to the stadium as Jorge flew into the center of the trumpeters, who started to play. "Come on shake your body baby do the Conga..." and Jorge started to dance in the air. The crowd cheered the A-typically talented Flamingo and he loved every minute of it.
Sasporilla pointed up, cheered, waved, clapped, hooted and sang along with everyone else. Just part of the crowd.
The Chocolate Frog's float had as good as vanished as it passed through the gates ahead of the Queens car. The entire thing heading underneath the stadium to get the group to the stage.
"Are the instruments tuned and ready?" Myron asked.
"Everything is as expected Mr.Wagtail." one of the roadies said.
"That bad?" Myron laughed. "Just another day. Right lads, let's put on a show!
Sasporilla was never more delighted than to see Jorge land on stage and dance with Gloria Estefan for the last part of the song. This moment was a dream come true for her faithful Flamingo. There was never more deserved a standing ovation, in the history of shows put on in Avalon, then there was for Jorge the dancing Flamingo.
Sasporilla was whisked away into a small Royal gold tent with the rest of her procession. The inside of the tent was much larger inside and was alive with activity. Many members of the Royal house hold staff were a buzz with jobs to do. The Witch Queen's hired Royal coronation advisor Professor Garvy Beanhomm, an expert in all things coronation from Avalon University, kept things running like a well oiled machine.
"Did any one see if Angelo was there?" Sasporilla asked as the Royal dressers helped to affix a very heavy Royal fur cape to her shoulders.
"Of course he's there." Kerry smiled. "Right up front. Right where he should be."
"Good." Sassy smiled, until something caught her attention. "Excuse me." Sasporilla asked. "Is this the cape I was told about? The great symbol of unity across our world?"
"Yes your highness." The Older woman said.
"May I ask what it's made of?" Sassy cringed.
"It's Nundu fur, trimmed in Zouwu fur with and inlayed with faery wing."
"Get... this... abomination... off... me......... PLEASE!!!!" Sasporilla growled.
Karry had never heard Sasporilla so mad and so polite at the same time.
"Have I done something to offend you, your highness?" The old woman became terrified.
"No." Sasporilla took a deep breath, remembering her predecessor. "The issue I have is with the evil it took to make this cloak. I will not wear it."
The dressers unclipped the cape and began to remove it when the Coronation advisor ran up in a panic.
"No no no, your Highness you don't understand," Professor Garvy Beanhomm smiled patronizingly at the young woman. "This cape is a Royal tradition. Considered part of the crown jewels and not optional. Put it back on her."
"Excuse me?" Sasporilla said stepping down, noticing professor Splatterpalette conspicuously missing. "I hate to pull rank you 'Sir', you being a 'Professor' and me being a first year student and all but just WHO IS BEING CROWND BLOODY WITCH QUEEN?"
"You are your highness." Professor Garvy Beanhomm gulped.
"And if I say killing wild animals for their fur upsets me and I don't choose to wear them then...?" Sassy asked her eyebrows raised trying to lead the man to her train of thought.
" Then it's time for a new one?" Professor Garvy Beanhomm sighed.
"Exactly what I was thinking." Sasporilla smiled.
"Where will we get one at this late minute?" Professor Garvy Beanhomm asked. "I could get someone to transfigure this one but..."
"No, absolutely not!" Sasporilla refused. "It would still be the same cape with same fur! Even if it looks like your mums old kitchen curtains!!!"
"I've got one!" Professor Splatterpalette announced walking in with a small purple bag. "Courtesy of Alison Pomegranate!"
"Professor Splatterpalette," Professor Beanhomm huffed, "we are in the middle of a cloak crisis. A little purple bag is hardly the...."
The arts and design teacher politely smiled at the annoying old curmudgeon as she reached in to the small purple bag and turned it inside out revealing it to be a well designed Royal purple cloak of fine Avalonian silks trimmed in pink, inlayed with spun gold and silver.
"This is beautiful Professor." Sasporilla smiled. "And absolutely perfect! Alison designed this?"
"Yes indeed!" Professor Splatterpalette said. "She wants to design capes, and cloaks and refused to design a dress so she was handed an F-! Now if you were to wear this...?"
"Clip it on me!!!" Sasporilla smiled much to the old Royal dresser's delight.
*****************************
"Lilia Spungolo back with you here at Avalon Angel's Spharx stadium," the young reporter now sat at a desk over-looking the stadium with a great field view of the coronation stage, "where in moments we expect to see the coronation of Sasporilla Imaginarium Bucket, the little girl many thought was born without magic as her mother was, is about to be crowned Witch Queen of Avalon! The second crown she has received also having been crowned, and forced to walk away from, Queen of the worker Elves."
The lights lowered and the music started to waft from the stage. The low humming of guitar that was unlike the classical pomp that accompanied the previous Witch Queen. Then the slow, low words of Myron Wagtail. "Turn off your mind, relax and float down stream...."
"!!!BOOM!!!" Fire works went off as the drums pounded and Music started to play. TOMORROW NEVER KNOWS - by the Weird Sisters played by The Chocolate Frogs. A spotlight from the stage shot from the front of Myron Wagtail down the center aisle between the chairs to the end of the carpet to reveal Sasporilla Bucket standing there in her gown. Her best of friends held the train of her cape as she walked forward at pace to the music.
"Ladies and Gentlemen." Lilia Spungolo's said in a voice over as the camera followed Sasporilla down the aisle, "Sasporilla Bucket, the new Witch Queen is approaching the stage! Her dress is a beautiful Lavender and pink floral gown designed as we at AVN have been told by a student at the University! She has for some reason refused to wear the crown Jewels other than the jeweled gold clasp holding her unrecognized cape on. The clasp is representative of unity in our world and I'm sure that's why she chose to wear it. It's taking all of her ladies in waiting to hold that train aloft. I must say I am surprised at the quick pace they are walking at. I honestly thought they would walk slower. At this rate her Royal Highness will reach the stage by the end of this song!"
Sasporilla met Angelo's gaze peering at her from the front row. She blushed and smiled when she saw him.
"That put a bit a wiggle in her walk." Lyra laughed.
"Shut it you." Sassy said from between a clenched tooth smile as she took the first big step up the sweeping staircase to the stage. At each step one lady in waiting dropped off and supported the cape with their wand as Sasporilla walked on stage. She walked towards a throne and a dais where the ArchBishop of the church of Avalon awaited.
Sasporilla walked center stage as the song ended. She turned and people went crazy with applause. She assumed it was for the band. She looked to Myron and the other Chocolate Frogs and applauded them. Myron Wagtail walked over, gallantly bent down on one knee, took Sasporilla's hand and kissed it and handed her a beautiful pink Rose. "My Queen."
"Charmer." Sassy smiled. "Now comes the hard part."
"You got this Sassy!" Myron winked. "Just a few moments more."
The other Frogs bowed to the Witch Queen politely and walked off stage to thunderous applause. The ArchBishop stepped up to his dais and cast "SONOROUS" so he could be heard by all.
"Sirs and Madame’s, I here present unto you
Witch Queen Sasporilla Imaginarium Bucket the first your undoubted Queen." The ArchBishop Smiled. "Wherefore all you who are come this day to do your homage and service, Are you willing to do the same?"
The people of Avalon cheered all with one voice crying out GOD SAVE WITCH QUEEN SASPORILLA!!!
The trumpets sounded.
Sassy sat on the throne, a rather uncomfortable chair made of gold and cushioned in thin velvet pillows, and undid the clasp of her rather long cape discretely folding it back into a purple bag. The Archbishop standing before her administers the Coronation Oath. "Madam, is your Majesty willing to take the Oath?"
"I am willing." Sasporilla answered.
"Will you solemnly promise," the ArchBishop asked " and swear to govern the Peoples of Avalon, according to their respective laws and customs?"
"I solemnly promise so to do." Sassy nodded.
"Will you to your power cause Law and Justice, in Mercy, to be executed in all your judgements?" The ArchBishop asked.
"You had better believe I will." Sasporilla insisted.
"Do you promise these things today honestly before God?" The ArchBishop demanded.
"I do." Sasporilla smiled. "Of course I do."
"Rise." The ArchBishop commanded.
"Ah common..." Sassy smiled. "Say please."
The crowd laughed.
"Ummm...ohhh...ummm...." the ArchBishop stammered, "Please your highness."
Sasporilla stood up with grace and poise. Sasporilla is escorted over to an altar area where a padded kneeler had been placed. A Bible and a bunch of sacred Royal relics of position were placed on the alter before her.
"Repeat after me." The ArchBishop said. "The things which I have here before promised, I will perform, and keep. So help me God."
"The things which I have here before promised, I will perform, and keep. So help me God." Sasporilla said.
And kissing the Bible, Sasporilla Bucket takes the Royal Quill and signs the Oath and returns to the throne to more applause.
The ArchBishop then brings the Bible over to Sasporilla and presents it to her.
"Our gracious Queen." The ArchBishop smiled. "To keep your Majesty ever mindful of the law and the Gospel of God as the Rule for the whole life and government of Christian Princes, we present you with this Book, the most valuable thing that this world affords. Here is Wisdom; This is the royal Law; These are the lively Oracles of God."
Sasporilla nodded and handed the Bible back to the man who took it to the dais where he performed a very moving service of Psalms and other passages.
The ArchBishop blessed her with Holy oil as it was in ancient times. The Staff of Orianthii was carried over and presented by a Goblin from Gringots guarded by Royal Guardsmen and a trusted worker elf. The staff of Orianthii was a relic of great power. In the wrong hands it could cause great destruction. Thought stolen for centuries it mysteriously reappeared after the death of Baba Yaga in the Royal Vaults, where it should have been all along! Many suspect a defensive spell by Merlin... just in case.
"And God" the Arch Bishop continued, "and so direct and support thy servant
Queen Sasporilla that she may not bear the staff in vain; but may use it as the minister of God for the protection and encouragement of those that do well. Amen."
The staff is handed to Sasporilla. A glow is seen in her eyes and she gasps, cries, then giggles and laughs.
"This is no laughing matter child." The ArchBishop Chided her.
"No I agree." Sasporilla said. "This staff contains great, powerful magic! It's allowed me to see many paths. Many futures for many decisions, in seconds. It's shown me the results... good and bad... of my own intentions. As well as the wheels within wheels of other schemes. I found it most entertaining. Arch... Bishop."
The ArchBishop gulped hard.
"D-do you Receive this Queenly Staff brought now from the Altar of God,
and delivered to you by the hands of us
the Bishops and servants of God, though unworthy. With this staff do justice, stop the growth of iniquity, protect the holy Church of God, help and defend widows and orphans, restore the things that are gone to decay, maintain the things that are restored,
punish and reform what is amiss, and confirm what is in good order: that doing these things you may be glorious in all virtue; and so faithfully serve our God in this life, that you may reign for ever with him in the life which is to come. Amen."
Sasporilla rose up and went to the alter. She looked over at a young man in a brown robe.
"What's your name?" Sassy smiled.
"Me?" The young monk pointed at himself shyly. "I'm brother Tucker. I'm no one."
"Arch Bishop, do you have your speech for today written down?" Sasporilla asked.
"Well, yes but..." the ArchBishop began.
"Guards, please escort this man back to the stadium security lock up and call the police." Sasporilla said. "Charges have been pending against him for years and they have been covered up. Let him have a fair trial by the people. Brother Tucker, please finish the ceremony for us?"
"This is out rageous!" The ArchBishop screamed as he was dragged away amongst gasps and cheers.
"I'm sorry friends." Sasporilla said. "The staff showed me the truth of his crimes, which are many I assure you. I could show you, but I would save you the horror of some of what I've seen."
The staff was taken by the goblin and returned to it's home in the Royal vault.
"Ummm...ok..." Brother Tucker said looking at the notes. "Wow, the Arch Bishop's notes are surprisingly rude? Not very Christian of him. Ok I see where we are. Ladies and Gentlemen I'm kind of new at this so please bear with me?"
"You're doing smashing!" Sasporilla smiled giving him a thumbs up.
"The Witch Queen has asked not to have the usual crown jewels brought to her. The ring, the bracelets, necklace, new scepter that was made and orb as she is.... what???" Brother Tucker turned to Sasporilla amazed, looking at her with his mouth hanging open wide. "Really???"
"Yes." Sasporilla nodded smiling shyly. "Go ahead and tell them."
"The Witch Queen is donating the crown jewels, with the exception of the new crown crafted, and a portion palace treasurery to pay reparations to the victims and families of victims of the Baba Yaga."
The crowd fell silent. It was like they couldn't believe anyone in power in Avalon was ever taking responsibility for anything that had ever happened ever.
"My name is Sasporilla Bucket. You wanted a Witch Queen, well with me... the buck stops here." Sassy said. The cheers were deafening.
Brother Tucker got everyone settled down and seated again after about ten minutes. Looking in the notes he started to laugh. "Can I ask you all to rise?"
Brother Tucker shuffled over to the altar and took picked up the new crown fashioned for the Witch Queen by The finest Goblin jewelers of Avalon. Unlike the old crown, which was large and full of diamonds, this one was small. Not much bigger than a tiara, made of platinum with no diamonds, only a single pink stone.
Brother Tucker read the pages as he stood before the crown. "O God the Crown of the faithful. Bless we beseech thee this Crown, and so sanctify thy servant Sasporilla upon whose head this day thou dost place it for a sign of royal majesty, that she may be filled by thine abundant grace with all princely virtues. Amen."
Brother Tucker was assisted by guardsman who carried the crown on a cushion over to the side of the throne.
"Ready?" Brother Tucker asked.
"I guess." Sassy grimaced comically. "Got nothin' else to do this morning."
Brother Tucker gently picked up the crown and lifted it over, placing it down on the head of her Royal Majesty, The Witch Queen, Sasporilla Imaginarium Bucket.
"GOD SAVE THE WITCH QUEEN!" Brother Tucker cheered
"GOD SAVE THE WITCH QUEEN!" The crowd cheered. "GOD SAVE THE WITCH QUEEN! GOD SAVE THE WITCH QUEEN! GOD SAVE THE WITCH QUEEN!"
Sasporilla stood and as Brother Tucker and others started to kneel she stopped them.
"No please stop!" Sasporilla insisted. "Please stand. I must explain something to you as I did to the worker elves."
Sasporilla took a knee before her subjects.
"I am your Queen." Sasporilla said humbly. "I serve you. You do not bow before me, I bow before you. It is always been power serves itself. Today, that changes in Avalon. Forever!"
The people cast confetti and fire works. As Sasporilla stood up and the Chocolate Frogs returned to the stage. The band played while the Witch Queen assisted the Worker elves remove the throne and other props of coronation from the stage. She used her wand more than her hands but honestly, she didn't want to get the Gown she'd been leant dirty! Once done she levitated the dais to center stage as the Chocolate Frogs finished up their set. Sasporilla walked up and smiled.
"Hi everyone." Sassy said. "I promised a big announcement, One promising you Democracy and freedom, after I was crowned Witch Queen. So here it is. Within one year, the position of Witch Queen will be no more than a figure head."
"What?" People gasped.
"I intend to have every, and I mean every, group of peoples on this world have FREE, OPEN and HONEST elections to elect representatives for their own democratically run systems of government with a member sent to a world council. All members will have equal voices and equal votes! Not just Magi, but all Fae, Goblins and Hobgoblins. All dwarves, gnolls, doxies, harpies, and a fascilitator to judge and keep the council fair!"
The crowd was a gape at the news.
"I'm not saying it will be easy." Sasporilla said. "It will be hard at first. Maybe hard to even find good honest people. Trust me, that's hard on the world I'm from. However fair trial and honesty... and magical truth spells will create an environment you can work with. I'm sorry if I disappoint you as a Witch Queen by giving you a democratic governmental system." Sasporilla sighed. "But I would rather see you free than back under the rule of another tyrannical Witch Queen."
The crowd applauded slowly at first. However as people stood it got faster and, and faster as people showed their genuine approval and admiration for the young woman, Sasporilla Bucket Avalon's new Witch Queen.
This is the very Amazing and very REAL Lilia Spungolo (Left) with her wonderful Husband Fab (Right) of course our own Dina "Professor Splatterpalette" (center) hanging out this summer at the CNE! No unfortunately I am not the one taking the picture I was to ill to go with my condition. I wish I could have spent the day with my truly amazing friends!
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PLEASE REMEMBER
I am in no way affiliated with Warner Bros. or with J.K.Rowling. My work is purely that of fan fiction & do not ask for, nor accept money, gifts or other compensation for my work. If you really feel you must do something, donate to J.K.Rowling's charitable foundation LUMOS! Link below! ( https://www.wearelumos.org/ )
I am in no way affiliated with Warner Bros. or with J.K.Rowling. My work is purely that of fan fiction & do not ask for, nor accept money, gifts or other compensation for my work. If you really feel you must do something, donate to J.K.Rowling's charitable foundation LUMOS! Link below! ( https://www.wearelumos.org/ )